Sohail Aziz

Dr. Sohail Aziz


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

2Years (2025-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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Journal Article
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MCMara Creoli
Mara Creoli
APAlessandra Di Paola
Alessandra Di Paola
ATAntonietta Tarallo
Antonietta Tarallo
SASohail Aziz
Sohail Aziz
EMErasmo Miele
Erasmo Miele
CSCaterina Strisciuglio
Caterina Strisciuglio
Macrophages play a crucial role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and can exhibit either pro-inflammatory M1 or anti-inflammatory M2 phenotypes. The cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) is involved in immune regulation and may represent a therapeutic target in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our study investigates the phenotype of circulating macrophages and CB2 expression in children with IBD, assessing the role of CB2 stimulation in macrophage polarization, iron metabolism, and intestinal barrier function. Macrophages were isolated from 17 children with ulcerative colitis (UC), 21 with Crohn’s disease (CD), and 12 healthy controls (CTR). Cells were treated with a CB2 agonist (JWH-133) and an inverse agonist (AM630). CB2 expression and macrophage polarization were assessed by Western blot. Iron metabolism was evaluated through IL-6, hepcidin levels, FPN-1 expression, and iron concentration. Inflammation was assessed by cytokine release. An in vitro “immunocompetent gut” model was used to study the effects of CB2 stimulation on macrophage polarization and intestinal barrier function. CB2 expression was reduced in IBD macrophages. Compared to controls, IBD patients showed increased M1 markers and pro-inflammatory cytokines, with a reduction in M2 markers and IL-13. Altered iron metabolism was observed, with increased [Fe3+], hepcidin release, and DMT1 expression, and reduced FPN-1. CB2 stimulation restored iron metabolism, induced M2 polarization, and improved intestinal barrier function. CB2 could represent a novel therapeutic target for IBD by modulating macrophage function, iron metabolism, and mucosal barrier restoration.