Regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 induction in the mouse uterus during decidualization. An event of early pregnancy

The infertility phenotype of cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2)-deficient female mice establishes the important role of Cox-2 in pregnancy. Cox-2 deficiency results in defective ovulation, fertilization, implantation, and decidualization; the latter of which can be restored in part by the prostacyclin analog carbaprostacyclin. Uterine Cox-2 expression during early pregnancy shows distinct localization and kinetics in the uterine luminal epithelium and underlying stromal cells, suggesting that expression is tightly regulated. Several intracellular signaling cascades including ERK, p38, and JNK are implicated in vitro as critical components of regulated Cox-2 expression in response to mitogens, growth factors, and cytokines. We investigated the involvement of these signaling pathways during Cox-2 induction in vivo by monitoring uterine kinase activity after intraluminal application of a deciduogenic stimulus. Our results show that the ERK and p38 pathways are activated in uterine preparations as early as 5-min post-stimulation. ERK activation was sustained for several hours with a return to baseline levels by 4 h. p38 activation was rapid with a peak at 5-min post-stimulation and returned to near baseline levels after 45 min. Systemic administration of a MEK inhibitor completely inhibited ERK activation, but did not affect early (2 h) luminal epithelial or late (24 h) stromal Cox-2 expression and only modestly affected decidualization. In contrast, administration of a p38 inhibitor modestly inhibited early Cox-2 expression in the luminal epithelium, while dramatically diminishing late stromal expression. In parallel, induced stromal peroxisomal proliferator activated receptor-delta (PPARdelta) expression is blunted by p38 inhibition. p38 inhibition also significantly inhibited decidualization. These results suggest that p38, but not ERK, activation is required for induced Cox-2 and PPARdelta expression during decidualization. In addition, inhibition of p38 led to decreased decidualization suggesting that an intracrine prostanoid pathway consisting of Cox-2, prostacyclin, and PPARdelta is required for maintenance of early pregnancy.

Dose-dependent pharmacokinetics of a new neuroprotective agent for ischemia-reperfusion damage, KR-31378, in rats

The dose-dependent pharmacokinetic parameters of a new neuroprotective agent for ischemia-reperfusion damage, KR-31378, were evaluated after intravenous and oral administration, 10, 20, and 50 mg/kg, to rats. After intravenous administration of 50 mg/kg, the dose-normalized (10 mg/kg) AUC (994 microg min/mL) was significantly greater than that at 10 (569 microg min/ml) and 20 (660 microg min/mL) mg/kg. This could be due to slower clearance (Cl) with increasing dosage (18.5, 14.6, and 10.2 mL/min/kg for 10, 20, and 50 mg/kg, respectively). The slower Cl with increasing dosage could be due to saturable metabolism of KR-31378 in rats and this could be supported by significantly slower Cl(nr) and significantly greater 24-h urinary excretion of the drug at 50 mg/kg than those at 10 and 20 mg/kg. After oral administration of 50 mg/kg, the dose-normalized (10 mg/kg) AUC (1160 microg min/mL) was significantly greater than that at 10 (572 microg min/mL) and 20 (786 microg min/mL) mg/kg. Note that the AUCs were comparable (not significantly different) between intravenous and oral administration at each dosage, indicating that the absorption from gastrointestinal tract was almost complete and the first-pass (gastric, intestinal, and hepatic) effect was not considerable after oral administration to rats.

Dysregulation of EGF family of growth factors and COX-2 in the uterus during the preattachment and attachment reactions of the blastocyst with the luminal epithelium correlates with implantation failure in LIF-deficient mice

Various mediators, including cytokines, growth factors, homeotic gene products, and prostaglandins (PGs), participate in the implantation process in an autocrine, paracrine, or juxtacrine manner. However, interactions among these factors that result in successful implantation are not clearly understood. Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a pleiotropic cytokine, was shown to be expressed in uterine glands on day 4 morning before implantation and is critical to this process in mice. However, the mechanism by which LIF executes its effects in implantation remains unknown. Moreover, interactions of LIF with other implantation-specific molecules have not yet been defined. Using normal and delayed implantation models, we herein show that LIF is not only expressed in progesterone (P4)-primed uterine glands before implantation in response to nidatory estrogen, it is also induced in stromal cells surrounding the active blastocyst at the time of the attachment reaction. This suggests that LIF has biphasic effects: first in the preparation of the receptive uterus and subsequently in the attachment reaction. The mechanism by which LIF participates in these events was addressed using LIF-deficient mice. We observed that while uterine cell-specific proliferation, steroid hormone responsiveness, and expression patterns of several genes are normal, specific members of the EGF family of growth factors, such as amphiregulin (Ar), heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF), and epiregulin, are not expressed in LIF(-/-) uteri before and during the anticipated time of implantation, although EGF receptor family members (erbBs) are expressed correctly. Furthermore, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an inducible rate-limiting enzyme for PG synthesis and essential for implantation, is aberrantly expressed in the uterus surrounding the blastocyst in LIF(-/-) mice. These results suggest that dysregulation of specific EGF-like growth factors and COX-2 in the uterus contributes, at least partially, to implantation failure in LIF(-/-) mice. Since estrogen is essential for uterine receptivity, LIF induction, and blastocyst activation, it is possible that the nidatory estrogen effects in the P4-primed uterus for implantation are mediated via LIF signaling. However, we observed that LIF can only partially resume implantation in P4-primed, delayed implanting mice in the absence of estrogen, suggesting LIF induction is one of many functions that are executed by estrogen for implantation.

The psychological burden of peanut allergy as perceived by adults with peanut allergy and the parents of peanut-allergic children

BACKGROUND

Peanut-allergic patients are affected by a condition which forces them and their families to exercise extreme dietary vigilance and experience constant uncertainty throughout their lives.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the quality of life and family relations of children and adults with a peanut allergy to that of children and adults with a rheumatological disease.

METHODS

Patients with a confirmed diagnosis of peanut allergy or a rheumatological disease completed (for children less than 18 years, by proxy) self-report questionnaires regarding the impact of their condition on their quality of life and family relations. A vertical visual analogue scale and the Impact on Family Questionnaire (IFQ) served as outcome measures.

RESULTS

One hundred and fifty-three peanut-allergic children were compared with 69 children with a rheumatological disease while 37 peanut-allergic adults were compared with 42 adults with a rheumatological disease. The parents of peanut-allergic children, compared to the parents of children with a rheumatological disease, reported that their children had significantly more disruption in their daily activities. Furthermore, the parents of peanut-allergic children reported more impairment in the familial-social dimension of the IFQ. Conversely, adults with a chronic rheumatological disease reported more disruption in their family relations than peanut-allergic adults.

CONCLUSION

Given the considerable disruption in daily activities and family relations reported by the parents of peanut-allergic children, accurate diagnosis of peanut allergy is essential. Our work should make health care professionals dealing with children with confirmed peanut allergy more aware of the support that these families may require. Furthermore, we hope to motivate food industries to offer more 'peanut free' products to decrease the dietary restrictions of these patients while minimizing their potential for accidental ingestion.

Real-time interactive simulator for percutaneous coronary revascularization procedures

This article describes the simulation of real-time catheter navigation in our interactive interventional cardiology simulation system (ICard). ICard is designed to enable medical students or physicians to familiarize themselves with the techniques of interventional catheterization procedures. The ICard software provides three-dimensional (3-D) views of the blood vessels and fluoroscopic images for real-time visualization of the catheter position. The 3-D human vasculature is built from various image data sets and is represented with a central line hierarchy model. Navigation of the catheter and guide wire and their interaction with blood vessels are implemented by applying the finite element method. Physical modeling that features the elasticity of the catheter and guide wire was developed to provide a realistic simulation of catheterization procedures. An electromechanical device was also developed in the system, allowing physical manipulation of catheter and guide wire movements. ICard can be used for training and design of equipment for interventional cardiology and may be further extended for pretreatment planning.

Mutational analysis of Lys65 of HIV-1 reverse transcriptase

Amino acid Lys(65) is part of the highly flexible beta3-beta4 loop in the fingers domain of the 66 kDa subunit of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) reverse transcriptase (RT). Recent crystal data show that the epsilon-amino group of Lys(65) interacts with the gamma-phosphate of the bound deoxynucleoside triphosphate ('dNTP') substrate [Huang, Chopra, Verdine and Harrison (1998) Science 282, 1669-1675]. In order to biochemically define the function of RT Lys(65), we have used site-specific mutagenesis to generate RT with a variety of substitutions at this position, including K65E, K65Q, K65A and K65R. Kinetic analyses demonstrate that if Lys(65) in RT is substituted with an amino acid other than arginine the enzyme exhibits dramatic decreases in the binding affinity (K(m)) for all dNTP substrates, in RT catalytic efficiency (k(cat)/K(m)) and in the mutant enzyme's ability to carry out pyrophosphorolysis, the reverse reaction of DNA synthesis. The pH optimum for the DNA polymerase activity of K65E RT was 6.5, compared to 7.5 for the wild-type enzyme, and 8.0 for the K65R, K65A and K65Q mutants. Molecular modelling studies show that mutations of Lys(65) do not affect the geometry of the loop's alpha-carbon backbone, but rather lead to changes in positioning of the side chains of residues Lys(70) and Arg(72). In particular, Glu in K65E can form a salt bridge with Arg(72), leading to the diminution of the latter residue's interaction with the alpha-phosphate of the dNTP residue. This alteration in dNTP-binding may explain the large pH-dependent changes in both dNTP-binding and catalytic efficiency noted with the enzyme. Furthermore, the K65A, K65Q and K65E mutant enzymes are 100-fold less sensitive to all dideoxynucleoside triphosphate ('ddNTP') inhibitors, whereas the K65R mutation results in a selective 10-fold decrease in binding of ddCTP and ddATP only. This implies that mutations at position 65 in HIV-1 RT influence the nucleotide-binding specificity of the enzyme.

PPAR delta functions as a prostacyclin receptor in blastocyst implantation

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), members of the nuclear hormone superfamily, are the target of extensive investigation because of their role in various pathophysiological processes. Recently, a novel biological function of PPAR delta, a less studied member of the family, was observed in the mouse. Evidence suggests that cyclooxygenase 2-derived prostacyclin mediates blastocyst implantation via this receptor. In this review, this new function of PPAR delta in implantation is highlighted, and future directions to investigate its mechanism of action are discussed.

Molecular signaling in uterine receptivity for implantation

Successful implantation is the result of an intimate 'cross-talk' between the blastocyst and uterus in a temporal and cell-specific manner. Thus, both the uterine and embryonic events must be examined to better understand this process. Although various aspects and molecules associated with these events have been explored, a comprehensive understanding of the implantation process is still very limited. In this review, we have highlighted the importance of the blastocyst's activity state and the receptive state of the uterus in determining the 'window' of implantation. In this context, we provide a testable scheme that signifies the important roles of various key molecules in embryo-uterine interactions during implantation.

Phototesting and photopatch testing: when to do it and when not to do it

Phototesting and photopatch testing are among the most important tests in the evaluation of photodermatoses, yet their use has been restricted to specialized centers. To assist clinicians interested in conducting these procedures and in updating their techniques, we asked 4 experts to comment on these tests in the context of diagnostic approach to the photosensitive patient. A list of photoallergens and a protocol for their use is provided.

Changes in gallbladder motility in gastrectomized patients

OBJECTIVES

Gastric resection may predispose gallstone formation. However, the mechanism has not been clearly understood. To evaluate the relationship between gastric resection and gallstone formation, we compared gallbladder(GB) motility in gastrectomized patients and control subjects.

METHODS

We compared the GB volume and ejection fraction of the 46 gastrectomized patients with 37 healthy controls using real time ultrasonography.

RESULTS

GB volume increased significantly in the gastrectomized group in fasting (30.2 +/- 13.9 ml). The GB volume after a fatty meal was greater in the gastrectomized group (12.6 +/- 6.4 ml) than in the control group (4.3 +/- 3.3 ml) (p < 0.01). A significant reduction of ejection fraction was found in gastrectomized patients (56.9 +/- 13.0%) in comparison with the control group (75.5 +/- 16.1%) (p < 0.01). The GB ejection fraction had a poor correlation to the postoperative period (r = 0.232).

CONCLUSION

A gastrectomy appears to be a risk factor of GB dysmotility, which may play a major role in gallstone formation in gastrectomized patients.

Synthesis and hybridization properties of oligonucleotides containing 6-membered azasugar nucleotides

A modified nucleoside was synthesized with adenine and a 6-membered azasugar, and it was converted to the phosphoramidite which was used for the incorporation into oligonucleotides. The hybridization properties of the modified oligonucleotides with DNA and RNA were studied.

Profound apoptosis-mediated regional myocyte loss and compensatory hypertrophy in pigs with hibernating myocardium

BACKGROUND

Myocyte apoptosis is seen in ischemic heart disease, but whether it can occur after reversible ischemia or independent of necrosis and replacement fibrosis is unknown.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Pigs were instrumented with a stenosis of the left anterior descending coronary artery to chronically reduce coronary flow reserve over a period of 3 months. At this time, there was viable dysfunctional myocardium having the physiological features of hibernating myocardium. Resting subendocardial perfusion was reduced to 0.65+/-0.08 (mean+/-SEM) mL. min(-1). g(-1) in hibernating myocardium of instrumented pigs compared with 0.98+/-0.14 mL. min(-1). g(-1) in myocardium of sham-operated pigs (P<0.05). There was a critical limitation in subendocardial flow during vasodilation to 0.78+/-0.20 mL. min(-1). g(-1) in instrumented pigs versus 3. 24+/-0.50 mL. min(-1). g(-1) in sham-operated pigs (P<0.001). Histology revealed a regional reduction in myocyte nuclear density to 995+/-100 nuclei/mm(2) in hibernating myocardium from the instrumented group versus 1534+/-65 nuclei/mm(2) in myocardium from the sham-operated group (P<0.05), regional myocyte hypertrophy (myocyte volume per nucleus, 14 183+/-2594 in the instrumented group versus 9130+/-1301 microm(3) in the sham group; P<0.05), and minimal increases in connective tissue (5.8+/-0.9% in the instrumented group versus 3.0+/-0.2% in the sham group, P<0.05). Necrosis was not identified, but apoptosis was increased from 30+/-9 myocytes per 10(6) myocyte nuclei in myocardium from the sham group to 220+/-77 myocytes per 10(6) myocyte nuclei in hibernating myocardium (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that reversible ischemia in an area of chronically reduced coronary flow reserve induces regional myocyte loss via an apoptotic mechanism. This may contribute to the progression of chronic coronary disease to heart failure and explain the lack of complete functional recovery after revascularization in hibernating myocardium.

Synthesis and hybridization property of sugar and phosphate linkage modified oligonucleotides

1-[3-Deoxy-5-O-(4,4'-dimethoxytriphenylmethyl)-3-C-hydroxymethyl-2 -O-(2-methoxyethoxymethyl)-beta-D-erythro-pentofuranosyl]thymine (13) was synthesized from 1,2-isopropylidene-D-xylose (1) as a building block of modified oligonucleotides. Three types of novel oligonucleotides were synthesized from 13 and their T(m)s were compared with those of the corresponding natural oligonucleotides. It was found that our synthesized oligomers had lower affinity to DNA and RNA than the natural oligomers.

Cyclo-oxygenase-2-derived prostacyclin mediates embryo implantation in the mouse via PPARdelta

We have demonstrated previously that cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX2), the rate-limiting enzyme in the biosynthesis of prostaglandins (PGs), is essential for blastocyst implantation and decidualization. However, the candidate PG(s) that participates in these processes and the mechanism of its action remain undefined. Using COX2-deficient mice and multiple approaches, we demonstrate herein that COX2-derived prostacyclin (PGI2) is the primary PG that is essential for implantation and decidualization. Several lines of evidence suggest that the effects of PGI2 are mediated by its activation of the nuclear hormone receptor PPARdelta, demonstrating the first reported biologic function of this receptor signaling pathway.

Hoxa-10 regulates uterine stromal cell responsiveness to progesterone during implantation and decidualization in the mouse

Hoxa-10 is an AbdominalB-like homeobox gene that is expressed in the developing genitourinary tract during embryogenesis and in the adult uterus during early pregnancy. Null mutation of Hoxa-10 in the mouse causes both male and female infertility. Defective implantation and decidualization resulting from the loss of maternal Hoxa-10 function in uterine stromal cells is the cause of female infertility. However, the mechanisms by which Hoxa-10 regulates these uterine events are unknown. We have identified two potential mechanisms for these uterine defects in Hoxa-10(-/-) mice. First, two PGE2 receptor subtypes, EP3 and EP4, are aberrantly expressed in the uterine stroma in Hoxa-10(-/-) mice, while expression of several other genes in the stroma (TIMP-2, MMP-2, ER, and PR) and epithelium (LIF, HB-EGF, Ar, and COX-1) are unaffected before implantation. Further, EP3 and EP4 are inappropriately regulated by progesterone (P4) in the absence of Hoxa-10, while PR, Hoxa-11 and c-myc, three other P4-responsive genes respond normally. These results suggest that Hoxa-10 specifically mediates P4 regulation of EP3 and EP4 in the uterine stroma. Second, since Hox genes are implicated in local cell proliferation, we also examined steroid-responsive uterine cell proliferation in Hoxa-10(-/-) mice. Stromal cell proliferation in mutant mice in response to P4 and 17beta-estradiol (E2 was significantly reduced, while epithelial cell proliferation was normal in response to E2. These results suggest that stromal cell responsiveness to P4 with respect to cell proliferation is impaired in Hoxa-10(-/-) mice, and that Hoxa-10 is involved in mediating stromal cell proliferation. Collectively, these results suggest that Hoxa-10 mutation causes specific stromal cell defects that can lead to implantation and decidualization defects apparently without perturbing epithelial cell functions.

Cyclin D3 in the mouse uterus is associated with the decidualization process during early pregnancy

In the mouse, the attachment reaction between the blastocyst trophectoderm and the receptive uterine luminal epithelium occurs at 2200-2300 h on day 4 of pregnancy and is rapidly followed by transformation of stromal cells into decidual cells (decidual cell reaction). This process can also be induced experimentally (deciduoma) by intraluminal oil infusion in the uterus on day 4 of pseudopregnancy. The decidual cell reaction is associated with up- and down-regulation of many genes in a cell-specific manner. Using mRNA differential display, we identified cyclin D3 as one of the genes that is upregulated in the uterus at the sites of blastocyst apposition during the attachment reaction. The levels of expression were low in the morning of days 1-4 as determined by Northern hybridization. In situ hybridization analysis showed that on days 1 and 2, signals were primarily localized in uterine epithelial cells, while signals were detected in both the stromal and epithelial cells on days 3 and 4. In contrast, with the initiation and progression of decidualization on days 5, 6 and 7, the levels of cyclin D3 mRNA were remarkably upregulated in stromal cells both at the mesometrial and the antimesometrial poles. However, on day 8, signals were primarily localized in stromal cells at the mesometrial decidual bed. Implanting blastocysts on these days also expressed cyclin D3 mRNA. In the progesterone-treated delayed implanting mice, the uterine levels of cyclin D3 mRNA were modest at the sites of blastocyst apposition, but were upregulated with the onset of implantation by estradiol-17beta. However, the decidual expression of cyclin D3 mRNA was not dependent on the presence of blastocysts, since increased expression also occurred in experimentally induced deciduoma in the absence of blastocysts. The importance of cyclin D3 in decidualization was further examined in Hoxa-10-deficient mice which show defective decidualization. The expression of cyclin D3 mRNA in Hoxa-10(-/-) uteri on day 5 was severely compromised after application of a deciduogenic stimulus on day 4 of pseudopregnancy. Collectively, the results suggest that cyclin D3 could be important for the process of decidualization.

Inhibitory effect of sulfur-containing compounds in Scorodocarpus borneensis Becc. on the aggregation of rabbit platelets

The inhibitory effects of three pure compounds isolated from wood garlic, 2,4,5-trithiahexane (I), 2,4,5,7-tetrathiaoctane (II), and 2,4,5,7-tetrathiaoctane 2,2-dioxide (III), on rabbit platelet aggregation induced by collagen, arachidonic acid, U46619, ADP (adenosine 5'-diphosphate), PAF (platelet aggregating factor), and thrombin were studied in vitro. The anti-aggregating activity of 2,4,5,7-tetrathiaoctane 4,4-dioxide (IV) was also measured with collagen and arachidonic acid. I, II, III, and IV inhibited the platelet aggregation induced by all tested agonists. I, II, and III exhibited a stronger inhibitory effect against the thrombin-induced aggregation of GFP (gel-filtered platelets) than against the aggregation induced by the other agonists. Notably, the IC50 value for III was 4 microM, which is approximately 2.5 times stronger than MATS (methyl allyl trisulfide), a major anti-platelet compound isolated from garlic. In inhibiting collagen-induced aggregation, II was as potent as MATS and aspirin, with a marked disaggregation effect on the secondary aggregation by arachidonic acid, at the rate of 47.05%/min at a concentration of 10(-4) M. I, II, and III also suppressed U46619-induced aggregation. These results suggest that sulfur-containing compounds in wood garlic not only inhibit arachidonic acid metabolism but also suppress aggregation in association with the function of the platelet plasma membrane.

Nutritional status and reproductive health of Orang Asli women in two villages in Kuantan, Pahang

The study was conducted to determine the nutritional status and reproductive health of 34 Orang Asli women, aged 16-45 years, from two Orang Asli villages in Kuantan, Pahang Darul Makmur.The results of the study indicate that on the whole, the women's nutritional status is generally not satisfactory.Their mean iron intakes for example, are very low, about one-quarter to one-third of the required level.All their other mean nutrient intake levels are below the required level. Only their mean intake of vitamin C exceeds the required level due to their frequent intake of raw vegetables. Their main source of carbohydrate is rice, while their main source of protein is fish, and their main source of minerals and vitamins are Chinese mustard and cabbage.From BMI measurements, it is found that less than half of the women (42.9%) have normal weight, 35.7% suffer from chronic energy deficiency (CED), 7.1% (one) are overweight, and 14.3% (two) are obese.The accessibility and availability of food are a problem for the women, limiting their choice of varieties of food sources.For their reproductive health needs, the pregnant women rely on the government hospital and clinics for their antenatal check-ups and birth deliveries.Of all the women, nine suffer from menstrual pain and five from vaginal discharge.Food taboos and cultural practices are practised by the pregnant women during their confinement.It is concluded that the nutritional status of the women needs to be improved since most of them have insufficient nutrient intake.

erbB genes in the mouse uterus: cell-specific signaling by epidermal growth factor (EGF) family of growth factors during implantation

We previously described spatiotemporal expression of various epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like ligands and receptor subtypes, ErbB1 and ErbB2, during the peri-implantation period. To better understand the roles of these ligands and their possible signaling schemes in implantation, it is important to define the status of all the ligands and receptor subtypes in the uterus/embryo. No information is available about uterine and embryonic status of ErbB3 or ErbB4 during implantation. We cloned mouse erbB3 and erbB4 cDNAs and examined their expression and bioactivity in the peri-implantation uterus (days 1-8). Two erbB3 (cytoplasmic and extracellular) and three erbB4 (two cytoplasmic and one extracellular) clones were generated. Both forms of the erbB3 clone showed similar transcript profiles, while different transcript profiles were obtained with erbB4 clones. The steady-state levels of erbB3 and erbB4 mRNAs in whole uterine poly(A)+ RNA samples showed little changes during the peri-implantation period, while their unique cell-specific accumulation was noted. erbB3 is predominantly expressed in the epithelial cells, although decidual and embryonic cells also accumulate this mRNA. In contrast, the erbB4 mRNA is primarily expressed in the submyometrial stroma and myometrial connective tissues during this period. Additionally, the extracellular form of the erbB4 clone detected signals in a subpopulation of stromal cells. Autophosphorylation and immunoprecipitation studies provided evidence that uterine ErbB3 and ErbB4 are biologically active. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of possible ligand-receptor signaling schemes for EGF-like ligands in implantation.

Coordination of differential effects of primary estrogen and catecholestrogen on two distinct targets mediates embryo implantation in the mouse

In the mouse, estrogen is essential for blastocyst implantation in the progesterone (P4)-primed uterus. The mechanism(s) by which estrogen initiates this response still remains elusive. The present investigation, using delayed implantation in the mouse, examined the differential role of estradiol-17beta (E2) and its catechol metabolite 4-hydroxy-E2 (4-OH-E2) in uterine and blastocyst activation for implantation. The conditions of delayed implantation were induced by ovariectomizing mice on day 4 (day 1 = vaginal plug) of pregnancy or pseudopregnancy and maintaining them with P4 from days 5-7. The binding of EGF to blastocysts was used as a marker for blastocyst activation. Our results show that whereas E2 fails to activate dormant blastocysts (with respect to EGF binding in vitro), 4-OH-E2, cAMP, or prostaglandin E2, is effective in this response. Further, whereas 4-OH-E2 induced-activation is not blocked by an antiestrogen, an inhibitor of PG synthesis, adenylyl cyclase or protein kinase A effectively blocks this activation. These results suggest that 4-OH-E2 effects on blastocysts are mediated by PGs, which, in turn, stimulate cAMP production and thus activation of protein kinase A. Two-fluoro-E2 is a poor substrate and an inhibitor of catecholestrogen synthesis, but it is estrogenic, with respect to uterine growth and gene expression. Using blastocyst transfer experiments, we observed that dormant blastocysts incubated with 4-OH-E2 in vitro, but not with E2, are capable of implanting in P4-treated delayed implanting mice receiving two-fluoro-E2. The results suggest that whereas E2 is necessary for preparation of the uterus, uterine-derived catecholestrogen is important for blastocyst activation for implantation. Indeed, the receptive uterus has the capacity to synthesize 4-OH-E2. Collectively, we demonstrate that the primary ovarian estrogen E2, via its interaction with nuclear estrogen receptors, participates in the preparation of the P4-primed uterus to the receptive state in an endocrine manner, whereas its metabolite 4-OH-E2, produced from E2 in the uterus, mediates blastocyst activation for implantation in a paracrine manner. Our results also establish that these target-specific effects of primary estrogen and catecholestrogen are both essential for implantation and that successful implantation occurs only when the activated stage of the blastocyst coincides with the receptive state of the uterus.

Sulfur-containing compounds from Scorodocarpus borneensis and their antimicrobial activity

Three novel sulfur-containing compounds were isolated from Scorodocarpus borneensis. Their chemical structures were determined to be 2,4,5,7-tetrathiaoctane 4,4-dioxide (CH3SCH2SO2SCH2SCH3, 1) and 5-thioxo-2,4,6-trithiaheptane 2,2-dioxide (CH3SO2CH2SCSSCH3, 2), while the other compound was assumed to be O-ethyl S-methylthiomethyl thiosulfite (CH3SCH2SS(O)OCH2CH3, 3) on the basis of spectroscopic data. This first isolation of compound 1 strongly suggests that S. borneensis possesses a polysulfide formation pathway similar to that of other Allium species. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited antimicrobial activity against some bacteria and fungi.

Abdominal B (AbdB) Hoxa genes: regulation in adult uterus by estrogen and progesterone and repression in müllerian duct by the synthetic estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES)

Mice deficient for the Abdominal B (AbdB) Hox gene Hoxa-10 exhibit reduced fertility due to defects in implantation. During the peri-implantation period Hoxa-10 is sequentially expressed in the uterine epithelium and stroma. These observations, combined with the stringent regulation of uterine implantation by ovarian steroids, prompted us to test whether estrogen and progesterone directly regulate the expression of Hoxa-10 and other AbdB Hoxa genes. Here we show that Hoxa-10 expression in the adult uterus is strongly activated by progesterone. This activation is blocked by the progesterone receptor antagonist RU486 and is independent of new protein synthesis. In addition, Hoxa-10 expression is repressed by estrogen in a protein synthesis-independent manner. Analysis of adjacent AbdB Hoxa genes reveals that Hoxa-9 and a-11 are also activated in a colinear fashion by progesterone but differentially regulated by estrogen. These results suggest that the regulation of AbdB Hox gene expression in the adult uterus by ovarian steroids is a property related to position within the cluster, mediated by the direct action of estrogen and progesterone receptors upon these genes. We next examined whether the embryonic expression of Hoxa10 is regulable by hormonal factors. Previous work has demonstrated that perinatal administration of the synthetic estrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES) to mice and humans produces uterine, cervical, and oviductal malformations. Certain of these phenotypes resemble those in Hoxa-10 knockout mice, suggesting that Hoxa-10 gene expression might be repressed by DES during reproductive tract morphogenesis. Exposure of the developing female reproductive tract to DES, either in vivo or in organ culture, represses the expression of Hoxa-10 in the Müllerian duct. Thus, these data not only establish a direct link between ovarian steroids and AbdB Hoxa gene expression in the adult uterus, but also provide a potential mechanism for the teratogenic effects of DES on the developing reproductive tract.

Prostaglandin E2 receptor subtype EP2 gene expression in the mouse uterus coincides with differentiation of the luminal epithelium for implantation

Among the PGs, PGE2 is considered especially important for implantation and decidualization. Four major PGE2 receptor subtypes, EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4, mediate various PGE2 effects via their coupling to distinct signaling pathways. Previously, we have shown that the EP1, EP3, and EP4 genes are expressed in the periimplantation mouse uterus in a spatio-temporal manner, suggesting compartmentalized actions of PGE2 during this period. In this study, we examined the expression of the EP2 gene in the mouse uterus during the periimplantation period (days 1-8) and during experimentally induced progesterone (P4)-maintained delayed implantation and its resumption by 17beta-estradiol (E2). We also examined its regulation in the uterus by ovarian steroid hormones. Our results establish that EP2 messenger RNA (mRNA) is expressed exclusively in the luminal epithelium primarily on day 4 (the day of implantation) and day 5 (early implantation) of pregnancy. In (P4)-maintained delayed implanting mice, EP2 mRNA was present in the luminal epithelium, and the expression was further enhanced regardless of the location of the blastocysts after reinitiation of implantation. This observation suggests little or no embryonic influence in regulating EP2 expression and, instead, shows its regulation by P4 and E2. Indeed, treatment with E2 and/or P4 exhibited unique regulation of this gene. The treatment of adult ovariectomized mice with E2 down-regulated the basal levels of EP2 mRNA, whereas that with P4 up-regulated its levels in the luminal epithelium. The up-regulation of EP2 mRNA levels by P4 was further augmented by superimposition of the E2 treatment, suggesting a synergistic interaction between E2 and P4 in regulating this gene in the uterus. Collectively, the results suggest that EP2 could be a potential mediator of PGE2 actions in regulating luminal epithelial differentiation and serve as a marker for uterine receptivity for implantation.

Multiple female reproductive failures in cyclooxygenase 2-deficient mice

Cyclooxygenase (COX) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of prostaglandins (PGs) and exists in two isoforms, COX-1 and COX-2. In spite of long-standing speculation, definitive roles of PGs in various events of early pregnancy remain elusive. We demonstrate herein that the targeted disruption of COX-2, but not COX-1, in mice produces multiple failures in female reproductive processes that include ovulation, fertilization, implantation, and decidualization. Using multiple approaches, we conclude that these defects are the direct result of target organ-specific COX-2 deficiency but are not the result of deficiency of pituitary gonadotropins or ovarian steroid hormones, or reduced responsiveness of the target organs to their respective hormones.

Expression of betacellulin and epiregulin genes in the mouse uterus temporally by the blastocyst solely at the site of its apposition is coincident with the "window" of implantation

In the mouse, the process of implantation is initiated by the attachment reaction between the blastocyst trophectoderm and uterine luminal epithelium that occurs at 2200-2300 h on day 4 (day 1 = vaginal plug) of pregnancy. Several members of the EGF family are considered important in embryo-uterine interactions during implantation. This investigation demonstrates that the expression of two additions to the family, betacellulin and epiregulin, are exquisitely restricted to the mouse uterine luminal epithelium and underlying stroma adjacent to the implanting blastocyst. These genes are not expressed during progesterone-maintained delayed implantation, but are rapidly switched on in the uterus surrounding the implanting blastocyst following termination of the delay by estrogen. These results provide evidence that expression of betacellulin and epiregulin in the uterus requires the presence of an active blastocyst and suggest an involvement of these growth factors in the process of implantation.

Inappropriate expression of human transforming growth factor (TGF)-alpha in the uterus of transgenic mouse causes downregulation of TGF-beta receptors and delays the blastocyst-attachment reaction

In the mouse, the initiation of the attachment reaction between the blastocyst trophectoderm and luminal epithelium of the receptive uterus occurs in the evening (2200-2300 h) of day 4 of pregnancy (day 1 = vaginal plug) and is followed by proliferation and differentiation of stromal cells into decidual cells at the sites of blastocyst attachment. This investigation demonstrates that an inappropriate expression of the human transforming growth factor alpha (hTGF-alpha) transgene in the uterus under the direction of a mouse metallothionein-I promoter downregulates uterine expression of TGF-beta receptor subtypes and delays the initiation of implantation (attachment reaction) resulting in delayed parturition. This delay in the attachment reaction is accompanied by deferred uterine expression of amphiregulin. The results suggest that a coordinated 'cross-talk' between the signaling pathways executed by epidermal growth factor-like growth factors and TGF-beta 5 is important for the normal implantation process.

Differential expression of the erbB2 gene in the periimplantation mouse uterus: potential mediator of signaling by epidermal growth factor-like growth factors

Ligand-receptor signaling with the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family of growth factors in the uterus and embryo is considered to be important for implantation. The EGF family includes EGF, transforming growth factor-alpha, heparin binding-EGF, amphiregulin, beta-cellulin, epiregulin, and heregulins, whereas the receptor family (the erbB genes) consists of erbB1 (EGF-receptor, EGF-R), erbB2, erbB3, and erbB4. Interactions of uterine EGF-R with EGF-like ligands have been examined, but limited information is available regarding the status of other receptor subtypes. Thus, we examined the expression of the erbB2 gene in the mouse uterus during the periimplantation period (days 1-8 of pregnancy) and after 17 beta-estradiol and/or progesterone stimulation. Northern blot hybridization detected two transcripts (approximately 4.0 and 5.0 kb) of erbB2 messenger RNA (mRNA) in day 1-8 uterine polyadenylated RNA samples. In situ hybridization experiments showed unique uterine cell-specific erbB2 mRNA distribution. On days 1-4, unlike the full-length erbB1 mRNA which is not expressed in the uterine epithelium, the erbB2 mRNA was detected primarily in epithelial cells; the day 1 uterus showed the highest accumulation. On day 5, the epithelium and the decidualizing stromal cells around the implanting blastocyst exhibited accumulation of this mRNA. On days 6-8, the accumulation persisted in the epithelium at both the implantation and interimplantation sites in addition to modest levels of signals in the secondary decidual zone. On days 7 and 8, accumulation of the erbB2 mRNA was also prominent in the trophoblastic giant cells. Western blotting detected a predicted protein of 185 kDa in day 4 uterine membrane preparations. Results of immunocytochemistry demonstrated colocalization of the erbB2 protein with its mRNA in the periimplantation uterus. The uterine ErbB2 underwent phosphorylation by several members of the EGF family. Treatment of adult ovariectomized mice with 17 beta-estradiol, but not progesterone, up-regulated the expression of the erbB2 mRNA by more than 3.5-fold, as determined by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, and this increase was limited to the epithelium, as revealed by in situ hybridization. Collectively, the results place ErbB2 as a potential candidate receptor subtype for interaction with the EGF-related ligands in epithelial cell proliferation/differentiation during the preimplantation period and stromal cell proliferation/decidualization during the postimplantation period.

Mechanisms of reduced fertility in Hoxa-10 mutant mice: uterine homeosis and loss of maternal Hoxa-10 expression

The establishment of a receptive uterine environment is critical for embryonic survival and implantation. One gene that is expressed in the uterus during the peri-implantation period in mice and is required for female fertility is the homeobox gene Hoxa-10. Here we characterize the peri-implantation defects in Hoxa-10 mutant females and investigate functions of Hoxa-10 in the uterine anlage during morphogenesis and in the adult uterus during pregnancy. Examination of pregnancy in Hoxa-10 mutant females has revealed failure of implantation as well as resorption of embryos in the early postimplantation period. Morphologic analysis of the mutant uterus has demonstrated homeotic transformation of the proximal 25% into oviduct. Histology and molecular markers confirm this anterior transformation. Furthermore, in situ hybridization shows that this region coincides with the anterior limit of embryonic Hoxa-10 expression in the urogenital ducts and a parallel transformation is observed in Hoxa-10 mutant males at the junction of the epididymis and ductus deferens. Female fertility could be compromised by either the homeotic transformation or the absence of Hoxa-10 function in the adult during pregnancy. To distinguish between these two potential mechanisms of infertility, wildtype blastocysts were transferred into mutant uteri distal to the transformed region on day 2.5 of pseudopregnancy. This procedure did not rescue the phenotype, suggesting that adult uterine expression of Hoxa-10 is required during pregnancy. Moreover, when implantation was experimentally delayed, homozygous uteri were able to support survival of blastocysts comparable to wild-type controls, indicating that the requirement for Hoxa-10 is intrinsic to implantation. While expression of LIF and HB-EGF appears unaffected in the mutant uteri, a decrease is observed in the intensity and number of blue dye reactions, an indicator of increased vascular permeability in response to implantation. In addition, mutant uteri exhibited decreased decidualization in response to artificial stimuli. These results show that Hoxa-10 is required during morphogenesis for proper patterning of the reproductive tract and in the adult uterus for peri-implantation events.

Restriction site and genetic map of Cucurbita pepo chloroplast DNA

A detailed restriction map of squash chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) was constructed with five restriction endonucleases, SalI, PvuII, BglI, SacII, and PstI. The cleavage sites were mapped by sequential digestion of cpDNA using low-gelling temperature agarose. The restriction map shows that squash cpDNA is an approximately 153 kilobase (kb) circle with a large inverted repeat sequence of 23.3 kb, separated by a large (83.7 kb) and a small (22.7 kb) single copy region. Genes for a number of chloroplast polypeptides were localized on the map by hybridizing the cpDNA restriction fragments to heterologous gene-specific probes from tobacco, pea, tomato, maize, and spinach chloroplasts. The gene locations and organization of squash cpDNA are highly conserved and similar to chloroplast genomes of tomato, pepper, and Ginkgo.

Pharmacokinetics of N-4-hydroxyphenyl-retinamide and the effect of its oral administration on plasma retinol concentrations in cancer patients

Concurrent with a phase-II trial of 4HPR in patients with various cancers, we studied the plasma pharmacokinetics of both 4HPR and its major metabolite 4MPR as well as the effect of 4HPR administration on plasma retinol concentrations using a simple, specific and sensitive HPLC procedure. Initial estimates of plasma pharmacokinetic parameters after oral administration of 4HPR (300 mg/day) [corrected] in 3 cancer patients were the following: 4HPR, t beta 1/2 = 13.7 hr, AUC = 3.49 micrograms.hr/ml, CL = 56.57 L/hr/m2; 4MPR, t beta 1/2 = 23.0 hr, AUC = 1.15 micrograms.hr/ml, CL = 239.29 L/hr/m2. We also found that oral administration of 4HPR resulted in a rapid, profound and significant reduction in plasma retinol concentrations. The mean plasma retinol concentrations for 9 patients decreased 60% from baseline to below 200 ng/ml within 1-2 weeks of 4HPR dosing initiation. In addition, there was a concurrent, significant reduction in plasma retinol-binding protein levels in these patients. The mechanism whereby 4HPR reduces plasma retinol levels in vivo has not been determined. The addition of 4HPR to pooled human plasma at 37 degrees C in vitro did not reduce endogenous retinol levels, suggesting no direct chemical interaction between these 2 retinoids.

The excretion of large vitamin C loads in young and elderly subjects: an ascorbic acid tolerance test

An ascorbic acid tolerance test is described for assessing vitamin C status. The test is simple to administer and suitable for elderly patients. It involves giving an oral load of 1 g ascorbic acid in water and then measuring urinary excretion of vitamin C over the next 6 h. The excretion pattern at dosing has been studied in ten young subjects. The result of the ascorbic acid tolerance test in these young subjects was significantly different after supplementation with 1 g ascorbic acid daily for 1 month. Two series of elderly patients were also studied with the ascorbic acid tolerance test. They had low initial plasma ascorbic acid levels and much less vitamin C was excreted in the urine after dosing. Seven of these elderly patients were then supplemented with 1 g ascorbic acid for 1 month. After supplementation the initial plasma levels and their response to the ascorbic acid tolerance test became similar to that seen in younger subjects.

Isozyme-specific enzyme inhibitors. 12. C- and N-methylmethionines as substrates and inhibitors of methionine adenosyltransferases of normal and hepatoma rat tissues

The 2-, 3-, and 4-mono-C-methyl derivatives of D,L-methionine (Met) have been resolved into the 10 possible enantiomeric forms having the configurations 2-Me-D, 2-Me-L, 3(alpha or beta)-Me-D, 3(alpha or beta)-Me-L, 4(alpha or beta)-Me-D, and 4(alpha or beta)-Me-L (the alpha designation was given to enantiomeric pairs that had higher Rf values on silica gel chromatograms than their diastereomeric counterparts). All compounds were weak, poorly selective inhibitors of the rat M-2 (normal tissue) and M-T (Novikoff ascitic hepatoma) variants of Met adenosyltransferase. Kinetic analysis of the three most effective showed them to be competitive inhibitors with respect to Met with both variants; the strongest inhibition (KM(Met)/Ki = 0.03) was that of M-T by 3 beta-Me-L-Met. The Me-Met enantiomers had low substrate efficiencies (Vmax/KM) in the range (0.5-2.2) X 10(-4) that of L-Met with M-2 (0.2-1.3) X 10(-3) with M-T among seven compounds studied. At a 4 mM level, seven of the enantiomers were converted to adenosylmethionine derivatives more rapidly by M-T than by M-2. Among these, 2-Me-L-Met, 3 alpha-Me-L-Met, 3 alpha-Me-D-Met, and 4 beta-Me-D-Met had little or no substrate activity with M-2. These differences in substrate specificity are potentially exploitable in the design of compounds with selective toxicity for rat tumor tissue. N-Me- and N-(n-Bu)-Met, and the Met analogue in which NH is substituted for S, were weak inhibitors of M-T and M-2 and showed no substrate activity at a level of 4 mM.

Proteolytic denaturation and methods of improving the stability of glucose isomerase preparations

Evidence is provided in support of proteolytic denaturation of free and immobilized preparations of glucose isomerase from a Bacillus species. A number of methods to improve the stability with respect to proteolysis have been tested and their advantages as well as shortcomings are discussed. These methods include hollow-fiber treatment, gel permeation, thermal treatment, and addition of protease inhibitors. The half-life of the free and the cellulose acetate fiber-entrapped preparations of glucose isomerase can be significantly improved. For example, the hollow-fiber treatment can improve the half-life by an order of magnitude.

Concurrent cutaneous and hepatic hemangiomata in infancy: report of a case and a review of the literature

Fifty-eight cases of concurrent cutaneous and hepatic hemangiomatosis in infants have been reported in the world literature. A fifty-ninth case is herewith reported and the literature is reviewed. Untreated cases have a mortality rate of 81%, whereas the mortality of treated cases is 29%. The main cause of death appears to be the consequence of arteriovenous shunting in the liver. Early and aggressive treatment by prednisone, radiotherapy to the liver, partial resection of liver, and ligation of the hepatic artery, each alone or in combinations, have been effective.