Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that, through the activation of its full length receptor, TrkB-FL, plays a pivotal role in neuroprotection, namely against neuronal toxicity Show more
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neurotrophin that, through the activation of its full length receptor, TrkB-FL, plays a pivotal role in neuroprotection, namely against neuronal toxicity mediated by amyloid-β peptide (Aβ). In astrocytes, the increase of calcium (Ca Show less
Chronic exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) contributes to the development of health issues, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Molecular mechanisms underlying SHS-related diseases remain p Show more
Chronic exposure to second-hand smoke (SHS) contributes to the development of health issues, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Molecular mechanisms underlying SHS-related diseases remain poorly understood, highlighting the need for reliable risk assessment biomarkers. Herein, we demonstrate that the plasma proteome of individuals exposed to SHS undergoes significant modulation. Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and Vitamin D-binding protein (GC) that are involved in the physiological response to circulating toxic substances, as well as key mediators of systemic inflammation, including Complement C1r subcomponent (C1R), Complement C1q subcomponent subunit C (C1QC), Histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG), and Vitamin K-dependent protein S (PROS1), were found to be significantly modulated in SHS-exposed individuals. Moreover, strong indicators of a pro-atherothrombotic response such Apolipoprotein A-IV (APOA4) and Alpha-2-antiplasmin (SERPINF2), were also differentially expressed. These findings provide novel insights into the biological pathways linking SHS-exposure to cardiovascular risks, and suggest a panel of candidate proteins with potential utility as SHS-risk assessment biomarkers. Show less