Recognition of noninfectious influenza virus by class I-restricted murine cytotoxic T lymphocytes

We have recently shown that murine target cells can be sensitized for lysis by class I-restricted influenza virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) using noninfectious influenza virus. Sensitization is dependent on inactivation of viral neuraminidase activity (which can be achieved by heating virus); and requires fusion of viral and cellular membranes. In the present study, we have examined recognition of antigens derived from heat-treated virus by cloned CTL lines induced by immunization with infectious virus. Target cells sensitized with heat-treated virus were recognized by all 11 CTL clones that were specific for internal virion proteins (nucleoprotein and basic polymerase 1), and by one of six clones specific for the major viral glycoprotein (the hemagglutinin). Immunization of mice with heat-treated virus primed their splenocytes for secondary in vitro CTL responses. CTL generated in this manner recognized target cells infected with recombinant vaccinia virus expressing cloned influenza virus gene products. These findings indicate that both integral membrane proteins and internal proteins that comprise virions can be processed by antigen-presenting cells for recognition by class I-restricted CTL. It also appears that not all hemagglutinin determinants recognized on virus-infected cells are presented by cells sensitized with heat-treated virus.

Recognition of noninfectious influenza virus by class I-restricted murine cytotoxic T lymphocytes

We have recently shown that murine target cells can be sensitized for lysis by class I-restricted influenza virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) using noninfectious influenza virus. Sensitization is dependent on inactivation of viral neuraminidase activity (which can be achieved by heating virus); and requires fusion of viral and cellular membranes. In the present study, we have examined recognition of antigens derived from heat-treated virus by cloned CTL lines induced by immunization with infectious virus. Target cells sensitized with heat-treated virus were recognized by all 11 CTL clones that were specific for internal virion proteins (nucleoprotein and basic polymerase 1), and by one of six clones specific for the major viral glycoprotein (the hemagglutinin). Immunization of mice with heat-treated virus primed their splenocytes for secondary in vitro CTL responses. CTL generated in this manner recognized target cells infected with recombinant vaccinia virus expressing cloned influenza virus gene products. These findings indicate that both integral membrane proteins and internal proteins that comprise virions can be processed by antigen-presenting cells for recognition by class I-restricted CTL. It also appears that not all hemagglutinin determinants recognized on virus-infected cells are presented by cells sensitized with heat-treated virus.

Electrophysiological and mechanical characteristics of histamine receptors in smooth muscle cells of the guinea-pig ileum

To elucidate the role of the histamine receptor in functions related to intestinal motility, we investigated the effects of histamine and its antagonists on electrical and mechanical activities in longitudinal and circular layers of the terminal region of the guinea-pig ileum. Histamine hyperpolarized the membrane in the circular smooth muscle cells by increasing the permeability of K+ and it transiently inhibited generation of the spike while resting tone was elevated. Cimetidine (CIM) inhibited the hyperpolarization and relaxation induced by histamine while mepyramine (MEP) inhibited the contraction but did not affect the histamine-induced hyperpolarization. In the presence of CIM, histamine did not depolarize the membrane but did lower the threshold potential required for generation of the spike potential, increased the appearance of the spike and enhanced the phasic contraction. Histamine, in 20 mM K+ solution, hyperpolarized the membrane and produced a biphasic response, an initial relaxation and a subsequently generated contraction, in a concentration-dependent manner. In the longitudinal smooth muscle cells, histamine depolarized the membrane, and enhanced both generation of the spike and the contraction. MEP (0.1 microM) but not CIM (1 microM) blocked the histamine-induced responses. CIM at a higher concentration (10 microM) enhanced the histamine-induced contraction, while histamine did not relax the tissue precontracted by 20 mM K+. These results indicate that the circular muscle cells have both H1 and H2 receptors while the longitudinal muscle cells have the H1 receptor. The excitatory responses induced by activation of the H1 receptor in smooth muscle cells differ in these layers.

A case of ACTH-producing pheochromocytoma

A woman with sustained hypertension, facial roundness, hirsutism, marked sweating, and generalized tremor was found to have a right adrenal pheochromocytoma. Elevated levels of serum cortisol, plasma ACTH, and serum catecholamines returned to normal after the tumor was removed. It was confirmed that enzymatically dispersed tumor cells produced ACTH and catecholamines concomitantly during in vitro incubation.

A giant aneurysm of the non-coronary sinus of Valsalva

A 54-year-old woman complained of shortness of breath. She was diagnosed to have an aneurysm of the non-coronary sinus and underwent a radical operation. The aneurysm had a diameter of 10 cm. Superior vena cava, right atrium, and right ventricle were severely compressed and deformed. The non-coronary sinus and ascending aorta were reconstructed with a 24 mm Dacron graft using the graft inclusion technique. The ostiums of both coronary arteries were skirted. The postoperative course was uneventful.

Incomplete thickness rotator cuff tears diagnosed by subacromial bursography

Incomplete thickness rotator cuff tears (ITRCT) adjacent to the bursal sac were diagnosed preoperatively by subacromial bursography and confirmed by surgical exposure. There were five men and one woman with an average age of 41.8 years. The preoperative duration of shoulder pain ranged from four to 36 months (average, 15.8 months). Clinical manifestations included crepitus and a painful arc in five of the six cases. Glenohumeral arthrography was normal in all cases. Subacromial bursography, subsequently performed, revealed pooling of the contrast medium in a torn area of the bursal side of the rotator cuff in all cases. Surgical treatment was recommended after the failure of conservative treatment for three to ten months. The surgical treatment consisted of both anterior acromioplasty and tendon suture. Wedge resection and shoelace suture repair of the tendon produced satisfactory results in all cases followed for ten to 72 months (average, 44.3 months). ITRCT adherent to the bursal sac were noted in 2.4% of a cadaver survey. Subacromial bursography can be a useful diagnostic procedure for this specific entity in subacromial impingement syndrome.

Effect of hexadecane on protein kinase C of pig epidermis

The application of hexadecane on animals skin induces hyperkeratinization and hyperplasia of the epidermis, however, the initial mechanisms of the epidermal cell proliferation and keratinization by hexadecane stimulation remains unknown. Protein kinase C is reported to be one of the critical enzymes involved in proliferation and differentiation of various cells and tissues. Therefore we investigated the effects of hexadecane on protein kinase C in pig epidermis. Protein kinase C activity of the pig skin increased 10 min after topical application of hexadecane to the back of the pig, normalized at 30 min, and subsequently kept falling for 24 h. In studying hexadecane dropped on floating sliced pig skin in Krebs buffer, similar results were obtained for the short term. Immediately after the hexadecane treatment, protein kinase C activity was not altered as compared with that of the untreated skin. Thus, the alteration of the protein kinase C activity after the hexadecane treatment is not due to the direct effect of hexadecane on the enzyme, but is due to other as yet unknown mechanisms of epidermal cell kinetics in response to hexadecane stimulation. We discuss the mechanisms of protein kinase C activity alteration upon treatment with hexadecane.

Muscarinic agonist binding in rat brain following chronic nicotine treatment

Carbamylcholine binding was determined from competition experiments with [3H] quinuclidinyl benzilate in the rat brain chronically treated with nicotine. The nicotine group exhibited about two-fold lower affinity for the agonist binding toward a high-affinity site (or state) in the cerebral cortex, as compared with the control group. However, no alteration in the agonist binding was observed in the hypothalamus/thalamus and brainstem after chronic nicotine treatment.

Effect of chronic nicotine treatment against repeated immobilization stress

Alpha 2 and beta adrenoceptors, and muscarinic cholinoceptors in 2 brain regions (cerebral cortex and hippocampus) were measured in rats which received either tap water or nicotine added to the drinking water (5-8 mg/kg/day) for 4 weeks, and immobilization stress (daily 2 hr) for the last 5 days. The repeated stress induced a reduction in the maximum number of binding sites (Bmax) for (3H)dihydroalprenolol (DHA) in the cerebral cortex of rats with tap water, without affecting (3H)clonidine binding. Nicotine-treatment also caused a decrease in the Bmax of cortical (3H)DHA binding comparable to the case of stress, and increased the (3H)clonidine binding. However, the combination of nicotine- and stress-treatments failed to induce further no changes in the 2 radioligands binding. The binding of (3H)quinuclidinyl benzilate in the cerebral cortex and of the 3 radioligands in the hippocampus was unaltered by nicotine- and/or stress-treatments. These results indicate that long-term administration of nicotine induces down-regulation of cortical beta adrenoceptors and seemingly attenuates the receptor alteration by repeated stress.

Effects of neurotensin on electrical and mechanical properties of smooth muscles in longitudinal and circular layers of the guinea-pig ileum

Effects of neurotensin (NT) on the electrical and mechanical activities of longitudinal and circular muscles of the guinea-pig ileum were investigated using the microelectrode and isometric tension recording methods. In longitudinal muscles, the resting membrane potential was not affected by NT (0.1-30 nmol/l), but NT did provoke the contraction when applied in concentrations over 1 nmol/l. TTX (0.1 mumol/l) neither modified the resting membrane potential nor the contraction evoked by NT, under condition of pretreatment with alpha- and beta-adrenoceptor blockers. In circular muscles, NT (over 0.1 nmol/l) consistently hyperpolarized the membrane and increased the ionic conductance. The hyperpolarization appeared with a transient hyperpolarization, which gradually declined with a long time course. Using apamin and various concentrations of Ca, the NT-induced hyperpolarization was classified into two subtypes; fast and slow. The former was composed of maximum hyperpolarization due to activations of the Ca independent K channel, and the latter was composed of late hyperpolarization, due to activations of the Ca dependent K channel. During the NT-induced hyperpolarization in circular muscles, the amplitude of non-adrenergic, non-cholinergic inhibitory junction potential (i.j.p.) evoked by field stimulation was reduced. This reduction induced by 0.5 nmol/l NT was mainly due to hyperpolarization of the membrane, and that observed in a high concentration of NT (3 nmol/l) was directly involved in ionic mechanisms contributing to the generation of i.j.p. In circular muscles, NT (over 3 nmol/l) did relax the tissue pre-contracted with 17.8 mmol/l K, but NT (below 30 nmol/l) did not relax the tissue pre-contracted by 39.6 mmol/l K.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Actions of quinidine and apamin on after-hyperpolarization of the spike in circular smooth muscle cells of the guinea-pig ileum

The effects of quinine and quinidine on membrane potential and action potential were investigated in circular smooth muscle of the guinea-pig ileum and the findings compared with the actions of apamin. In addition to results obtained from microelectrode experiments, the actions of quinidine and apamin on membrane currents were assessed using the single cell voltage clamp method. Quinine (above 0.2 mmol/l) and quinidine (above 0.08 mmol/l) depolarized the membrane, increased the membrane resistance and blocked generation of the after-hyperpolarization of the spike. Higher concentrations of both agents reduced the amplitude of the action potential and further depolarized the membrane. Quinidine and quinine possessed much the same action, with the former being more potent than the latter. Apamin, an inhibitor of the Ca-dependent K current, did not inhibit the after-hyperpolarization of the spike and had no effect on the membrane potential. In voltage clamp experiments, a depolarizing pulse (above -30 mV from -60 mV; 200 ms duration) elicited an inward current, followed by an outward current. With application of 2.5 mmol/l Mn instead of Ca, the outward current was subclassified into the Mn sensitive (Ca-dependent) and Mn resistant (voltage-dependent) K currents. Apamin (0.1 mumol/l) did not modify membrane currents evoked in the circular muscle cell, while, 0.1 mmol/l quinidine inhibited both the Ca- and voltage-dependent K outward currents, and Ca inward current. Our observation suggest that apamin-insensitive Ca-dependent K channels are present in the smooth muscle membrane and that they probably participate in the falling phase and after-hyperpolarization of the action potential.

Liquid-chromatographic assay of urinary vanillylmandelic acid and homovanillic acid, with clean-up by on-column injection of acetonitrile or methanol

To separately measure vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) and homovanillic acid (HVA) in urine, the sample is diluted 10-fold with 50 mmol/L phosphoric acid, then exactly 5 microL is injected directly onto a 50 X 4.6 mm column of Nucleosil 3C18. Samples can be injected at 5-min intervals because all peaks after these compounds of interest are washed away. VMA is eluted from the column after 2.8 min with 50 mmol/L phosphate buffer, pH 2.2, and measured by electrochemical detection. All peaks eluting after VMA are washed away together, by injection of 50 microL of acetonitrile onto the column. HVA is eluted from the column after 3.3 min with a 100/10 (by vol) mixture of the phosphate buffer and acetonitrile. All later-eluting peaks are washed away together, by injection of 50 microL of methanol onto the column. Analytical recoveries of VMA and HVA were 98.5% and 100.6%, respectively; the CVs for various concentrations of either in urine were about 3%.

Liquid-chromatographic assay of urinary vanillylmandelic acid and homovanillic acid, with clean-up by on-column injection of acetonitrile or methanol

To separately measure vanillylmandelic acid (VMA) and homovanillic acid (HVA) in urine, the sample is diluted 10-fold with 50 mmol/L phosphoric acid, then exactly 5 microL is injected directly onto a 50 X 4.6 mm column of Nucleosil 3C18. Samples can be injected at 5-min intervals because all peaks after these compounds of interest are washed away. VMA is eluted from the column after 2.8 min with 50 mmol/L phosphate buffer, pH 2.2, and measured by electrochemical detection. All peaks eluting after VMA are washed away together, by injection of 50 microL of acetonitrile onto the column. HVA is eluted from the column after 3.3 min with a 100/10 (by vol) mixture of the phosphate buffer and acetonitrile. All later-eluting peaks are washed away together, by injection of 50 microL of methanol onto the column. Analytical recoveries of VMA and HVA were 98.5% and 100.6%, respectively; the CVs for various concentrations of either in urine were about 3%.

Muscarinic receptor subtypes in bovine adrenal medulla

Muscarinic receptors in bovine adrenal medullary microsomes were characterized by radioligand binding assay, using l-[3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate (QNB), a muscarinic antagonist. Specific [3H]QNB binding to microsomes was rapid, reversible, saturable and of high affinity. Saturation experiments revealed a single class of binding sites for the radioligand with a maximum number of binding sites and an apparent dissociation constant of 162.6 fmoles/mg protein and 40.3 pM respectively. According to computer-assisted nonlinear regression analysis, however, drug/[3H]QNB competition curves indicated the presence of at least two affinity sites for muscarinic agonists (acetylcholine, carbamylcholine, oxotremorine), with a high (K1) and a low (K2) affinity (e.g. K1 = 664.8 nM and K2 = 36.5 microM for acetylcholine). The two affinity sites for acetylcholine showed only minimal regulation by magnesium and guanosine 5'-triphosphate. Furthermore, the presence of two affinity sites was suggested for the antagonists pirenzepine and gallamine, but not for atropine and pilocarpine. The K1 and K2 values for pirenzepine were 23.7 and 429 nM, respectively, with 54.5% of total sites having a high affinity. These results indicate that at least two distinct subtypes of muscarinic receptors exist in the bovine adrenal medulla and that they are distinguished by their relative binding affinity for muscarinic agonists and antagonists. The receptors are predominantly composed of the affinity state termed M1, as described for the receptors of sympathetic ganglia.

Copper-induced alteration of muscarinic binding in bovine adrenal medulla

In microsomes of bovine adrenal medulla, there were two affinity binding sites for carbamylcholine with a high and a low affinity. Copper (1-10 microM) largely enhanced the affinity of carbamylcholine at the low affinity binding site, with a slight increase in the affinity at the high affinity binding site. On the other hand, copper slightly decreased the binding affinity of pirenzepine and atropine. Thus, low concentrations of copper modulate the muscarinic receptors in the adrenal medulla by selectively increasing agonist affinity.

Congenital aplasia of the extensor muscles of the fingers and thumb associated with generalized polyneuropathy: an autosomal recessive trait

Three sibs born to normal but consanguinous parents had flexion deformities of the thumb and fingers on one hand and sensory deficit in the other hand. Extensor muscles were absent or vestigial in all of them. Polyneuropathic electrophysiological findings were detected in 4 limbs. This is an apparently autosomal recessive trait previously unreported.

Species difference in the muscarinic receptors of thoracic aorta

Muscarinic receptors in rabbit aortic membranes were characterized by binding assays using I-[3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate, and compared with muscarinic receptors in dog and bovine aortas. In the rabbit aortic membranes, I-[3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate specifically bound with high affinity (KD = 28.1 pM) to a single class of sites (maximum number of binding sites = 57.2 fmol/mg of protein) which have characteristics of muscarinic receptors. Drug competition curves indicated a single class of binding sites for antagonists (e.g., K1 = 160 nM for pirenzepine), but suggested the presence of two affinity binding sites (or states) for agonists (e.g., K1 = 8.29 nM and K2 = 0.32 microM for oxotremorine, respectively). I-[3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate also bound to a single class of sites in the membranes of dog and bovine aortas, with similar affinities to the case of rabbit aorta. But the maximum number of binding site values were significantly lower than the value in the rabbit aorta. Furthermore, bovine aorta exhibited a higher affinity (K1 = 8.7-22.3 nM) for pirenzepine, but a lower affinity (K1 = 0.62-1.46 microM) for oxotremorine, as compared with rabbit and dog aortas. Accordingly, muscarinic receptors in the aorta are different between animal species, regarding its density and interactions with muscarinic agents. The receptors in bovine aorta may be M1-subtype but receptors in rabbit and dog aortas may be relatively M2-subtypes.

An automated determination of urinary 4-hydroxy-3-methoxymandelic acid

An automated method for the determination of urinary 4-hydroxy-3-methoxymandelic acid is described. It is based on the procedure of Pisano et al (Clin Chim Acta, 1962; 7: 285-291). The correlation between the automated method and HPLC was high even though diet and medications were not restricted. The method has the advantages of short analysis time, specificity, and precision.

Alteration of alpha and muscarinic receptors in rat brain and heart following chronic nicotine treatment

Adrenergic and muscarinic binding sites in 4 brain regions (cerebral cortex, corpus striatum, hypothalamus/thalamus and brainstem) and in heart ventricles were measured in rats chronically treated with nicotine added to the drinking water in doses ranging from 6 to 8 mg/kg/day, for 4 weeks. Control rats received only tap water. The nicotine treatment led to increases in the specific binding of both [3H]prazosin and [3H]clonidine in the cerebral cortex. An increase in [3H]prazosin binding was also observed in the hypothalamus/thalamus of nicotine-treated rats. These changes were all due to an increase of about 23% in Bmax. In the brainstem and heart left ventricle, respectively, an increase and a decrease in the affinity of [3H]quinuclidinyl benzilate binding were observed. There were no changes of the binding parameters for the 3 radioligands in other regions tested, and no alteration of [3H]dihydroalprenolol binding was detected in any region examined. These results indicate that chronic administration of nicotine causes an increase in the density of alpha 1- and alpha 2-binding sites in some brain regions and reciprocal changes of the affinity of muscarinic binding sites in the brain and in the heart.

Regression with secretory changes of ovary-independent rat mammary carcinoma by pharmacological doses of estrogen

MT6 tumor is a transplantable ovary- and prolactin-independent rat mammary carcinoma containing estrogen and progesterone receptors. The effects of daily injections of 1 mg or 10 micrograms of 17 beta-estradiol for 28 days on the morphological changes and the proliferation and death of MT6 cells grown in male inbred Sprague-Dawley rats were investigated. Uptake values of 5-[125I]iodo-2'-deoxyuridine per g of living tumor, used as an index of cell proliferation, were not significantly reduced by treatment with 1 mg of 17 beta-estradiol. When tumor cell proliferation was evaluated by labeling with 5-[125I]iodo-2'-deoxyuridine just before the treatment, the radioactivity incorporated by the whole tumor remained almost unchanged in intact rats but was decreased slightly on day 21 and significantly on day 28 of the treatment in the rats treated with 1 mg of 17 beta-estradiol. Secretory changes characterized by the appearance of secretion in the lumina, vacuolation in the cytoplasm, marked increase in vesicular endoplasmic reticulum, accumulation of mature protein secretory granules and abundance of lipid droplets were observed in MT6 cells in rats treated with 1 mg of 17 beta-estradiol from the 14th day of treatment. On the 28th day, necrosis of MT6 cells with secretory changes was found. These changes were not found in intact rats or rats treated daily with 10 micrograms of 17 beta-estradiol. These findings suggest that the inhibitory effect of daily injections of 1 mg of 17 beta-estradiol on the growth of ovary- and prolactin-independent MT6 tumor is mainly due to secretory changes followed by loss of tumor cells induced by pharmacological doses of estrogens.

Locking of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb

We clinically examined the hands of twenty-three patients and experimented with amputation specimens to clarify the characteristic features and pathomechanism of locking of the metacarpophalangeal joint of the thumb. In all of the patients the locking had resulted from forced hyperextension of the thumb. Every injured thumb showed a mild hyperextension deformity of the metacarpophalangeal joint, with the joint having become fixed. Manual reduction was successful in seven patients, but the other sixteen required open reduction, during which we found that the proximal palmar ligament was ruptured transversely with its distal part riding over the volar prominence of the radial condyle of the metacarpal together with the accessory collateral ligament. These dislocated parts of the ligament formed a constricting bundle on the distal joint surface of the condyle that prevented closed reduction. The locking was released by cutting the constricted ligament bundle. Our description of this mechanism is supported by the experimental evidence that we obtained from examining the amputation specimens.

Selective interaction of DG-5128 with a low agonist affinity state of alpha-2 adrenoceptor

Using rat cerebral cortex membranes, the inhibitory effect of DG-5128 against (3H)-clonidine binding was compared between low (alpha 2L) (in the presence of EDTA) and high (alpha 2H) affinity states (in the presence of excess magnesium) of alpha 2-adrenoceptor for agonists. The Ki value (pKi=6.79) of DG-5128 in the alpha 2L state was 6.4 times higher than the value in the alpha 2H state. Thus, DG-5128 produces alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonism through the selective interaction with an alpha 2L state of the receptor.

Effects of calcium antagonists on smooth muscle membranes of the canine stomach

In circular muscles of the canine stomach, diltiazem (greater than 3 X 10(-6)M) depolarized and nicardipine (greater than 10(-6)M) hyperpolarized the membrane. Diltiazem (greater than 5 X 10(-6)M) or nicardipine (greater than 3 X 10(-7M) inhibited the plateau potential of spontaneously generated or electrically evoked action potential. In Na-deficient solution (between 137 and 30 mM Na), diltiazem and nicardipine selectively inhibited the plateau potential. In Na- (15 mM Na) or Ca-deficient (0.25 mM Ca) solution, spontaneously generated action potential ceased, and only graded responses were evoked by electrical stimulation. These graded responses were inhibited by diltiazem (greater than 5 X 10(-6)M) or nicardipine (greater than 3 X 10(-7)M). The ionic contribution for generation of action potential in this muscle cell was discussed in relation to actions of Ca antagonists.

Effect of 2,4,6-trinitrophenol on catecholamine secretion from perfused bovine adrenal glands

2,4,6-Trinitrophenol (PA) evoked a prolonged catecholamine (CA) secretion from perfused bovine adrenal glands. The PA-evoked CA secretion was concentration-dependent, required the presence of extracellular calcium and resulted from a direct action of PA on the chromaffin cells. Furthermore, PA reduced Mg2+-ATPase activities in the plasma membrane-rich microsome and granule-rich fraction from the adrenal medulla. These results indicate that PA evokes CA secretion through the actions on both the chromaffin cell membranes and granule membranes.

The selectivity of DG-5128 as an alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist

DG-5128 (2-[2-(4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)-1-phenylethyl]pyridine dihydrochloride sesquihydrate) at concentrations up to 10 microM inhibited [3H]clonidine binding more effectively than it did [3H]prazosin binding in rat cerebral cortex membranes. The mode of inhibition was homogeneous and consistent with the law of simple mass action. DG-5128 exhibited a 7.4 times higher affinity (pKi = 6.28) toward alpha 2-adrenoceptors than alpha 1-adrenoceptors. The results indicate that DG-5128 is a preferential alpha 2-antagonist.

[The metabolism of testosterone in the central nervous system (1). Analysis of testosterone metabolites in the anterior pituitary and hypothalamus using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and subcellular localization of testosterone converting enzyme]

The aim of this study was to identify accurately the structure of testosterone metabolites in the anterior pituitary and hypothalamus for the investigation of the mechanism of androgen action in the central nervous system. Tissue homogenate and cellular fraction of male rat anterior pituitary and hypothalamus were incubated with testosterone-4-14C and testosterone-19-CD3 (14C/D3 = 1) in the presence of NADH and NADPH. The incubation media were extracted, and they were separated using thin layer chromatography (TLC). Using autoradiogram of TLC, four main radioactive fractions were found on the TLC. The TFA or TMS derivatives of every fraction were analyzed using GC-MS. The main metabolites in the anterior pituitary were identified as 5 alpha-androstan-17-ol 3-one; androst-4-ene-3, 17-dione, 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol, 5 alpha-androstane-3 beta, 17 beta-diol, androst-4-ene-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol and androst-4-ene-3 beta, 17 beta-diol. The result in the hypothalamus was the same as that in the pituitary. The subcellular localization of metabolites in the anterior pituitary was as follows: 5 alpha-androstan-17-ol-3-one, 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol and 5 alpha-androstane-3 beta, 17 beta-diol were found in microsome; 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol and androst-4-ene-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol were found in soluble fraction. The result in the hypothalamus was the same as that in the pituitary.

Bile secretion in regenerating liver--a comparison of hepatic resection and ligation of the portal vein branch in dogs

To elucidate the mechanism of bile secretion in the regenerating liver, changes of bile secretion were investigated in dogs during 12 weeks or more after 70% hepatectomy and after ligation of the portal vein branch supplying 70% of the area of the liver. The remnant liver weight increased remarkably and reached a normal level at 2 weeks after 70% hepatectomy. Liver weight increased in the nonligated lobes and decreased in the ligated lobes after ligation of the portal vein branch, but the whole liver weight was unchanged. Bile flow increased and continued for 12 weeks or more in the remnant liver except for a period of 2 weeks in the nonligated lobes. It decreased markedly in the ligated lobes. The taurocholic acid-independent bile flow was higher in the remnant liver than in nonligated lobes in both of which it was higher than normal liver. In the ligated lobes, taurocholic acid-independent bile flow was lower and taurocholic acid-dependent bile flow was higher than normal liver. When gallbladder bile was infused into the terminal ileum, bile flow increased in both the remnant liver and the nonligated lobes, except for 2 weeks in the remnant liver. Therefore it is suggested that in the regenerating liver enterohepatic circulation of bile acid and the new balance of the bile acid pool size participates in not only in bile flow but also in liver regeneration.

Conduction-block induced by capsaicin in crayfish giant axon

The effects of capsaicin on the crayfish giant axon were examined by using microelectrode and double sucrose gap-voltage clamp methods. Capsaicin (1-3 X 10(-4) M), when applied externally, had no effect on the resting membrane potential but gradually suppressed the action potential. The rate of rise of the action potential was simultaneously decreased. Voltage clamp experiments revealed the following: capsaicin (10(-4) M) reduced more effectively the transient sodium current than the steady-state potassium current. Inhibition of the sodium current was derived from a decrease in maximum sodium conductance, as the equilibrium potential remained much the same. The inhibitory effects of capsaicin on action potentials and membrane ionic currents were slowly reversible after removal of capsaicin. These results indicate that capsaicin seems to produce a conduction block in the crayfish giant axon due to an inhibition of sodium channels. The significance of these findings is discussed in relation to the sensory neurone-blocking action of capsaicin.

Inhibition by chlorpromazine, metals and I-ascorbic acid of calcium-ATPase and magnesium-ATPase in bovine adrenal medullary microsomes

Effects of chlorpromazine, metals and I-ascorbic acid (AA) on Ca2+-ATPase and Mg2+-ATPase in microsomal and granular fractions obtained from the bovine adrenal medulla were studied. Marker enzyme analysis on microsomal subfractions in a discontinuous sucrose density gradient showed a correlation of distribution between ATPase activities and plasma membrane. The two ATPase activities in such plasma membrane-rich microsomes were reduced by chlorpromazine, Hg2+ and Cu2+ (0.3 mM of each), and their effects were greater on the Mg2+-ATPase activity. Zn2+ (0.3 mM) also reduced only the Mg2+-ATPase activity. AA (3 mM) reduced the two ATPase activities to an equal extent. Nevertheless, the inhibitions of ATPases by Hg2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ were decreased, unaltered and additively enhanced in combination with AA, respectively. We also observed high Mg2+-ATPase activity in the granule-rich fraction, but this ATPase activity was unaffected by all of the above agents. These results indicate that Mg2+-ATPase in the plasma membrane-rich microsome of adrenal medulla is inhibited by chlorpromazine, Hg2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+ more significantly than Ca2+-ATPase, but Mg2+-ATPase in the granular fraction is unaffected, and that AA changes the potency of inhibition by some metals of ATPases diversely.

Effect of picrotoxin on adrenal catecholamine secretion

The effect of picrotoxin (PT) on catecholamine (CA) secretion was investigated in perfused bovine adrenal glands. A low dose of PT (3 microM) enhanced the CA secretion evoked by a 15-min exposure to 1,1-dimethyl-4-phenylpiperazinium (DMPP, a nicotinic agonist; 0.1 mM), but a higher dose (0.3 mM) of PT inhibited the DMPP-evoked CA secretion. The rate of decline of secretory response to the prolonged DMPP stimulation was also accelerated by a higher dose (0.1 mM) of PT. In the dose-response curves for DMPP-evoked CA secretion, the inhibitory action of PT (0.3-1 mM) was more prominent at high doses than at low doses of DMPP. The inhibition pattern was similar to the pattern of a barbiturates blockade. In separate experiments, PT (0.1 mM) augmented calcium (10 mM)- and high potassium (56 mM)-evoked secretory responses. Spontaneous CA secretion was unaffected by PT at the concentrations indicated above. These results indicate that a low dose of PT potentiates, but higher doses inhibit, the adrenal CA secretion by a nicotinic agonist and that the inhibitory effect of PT resembles that of barbiturates.

Selective alpha-2 blocking action of DG-5128 in the dog mesenteric artery and rat vas deferens

The effects of a new hypoglycemic agent, DG-5128 (2-[2-(4,5-dihydro-1H-imidazol-2-yl)-1-phenylethyl]pyridine dihydrochloride sesquihydrate), on the adrenergic mechanism were studied in the isolated dog mesenteric artery and rat vas deferens. In the dog mesenteric artery, DG-5128 in concentrations over 10(-7) M augmented the contractile response and [3H]norepinephrine release evoked by electrical stimulation of the sympathetic nerve. Such an enhancement was also observed under conditions of treatment with cocaine and was not inhibited by propranolol or atropine. DG-5128 suppressed the presynaptic alpha-2 adrenoceptor mediated inhibitory effect of guanabenz on the sympathetic contraction and 3H-release. On the other hand, DG-5128 had no effect on the contractile responses to exogenous norepinephrine, epinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, histamine and KCI. These results indicate that DG-5128 is a highly selective alpha-2 antagonist in the mesenteric artery. This conclusion was supported in the experiments with the rat vas deferens; the pA2 value for DG-5128 against clonidine was 6.7 +/- 0.2. The affinity and selectivity of this compound was discussed, in comparison to findings in the case of yohimbine.

Effect of inorganic arsenics on cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of ultraviolet light on Escherichia coli and the mechanism involved

The genetic effect of arsenite (AsO-2) and arsenate (HAsO4(2-)) on the cells of E. coliB (argF-) tester strains was investigated. Both the arsenics, which did not show mutagenic effect on the tester strains, reduced UV-induced mutation frequency of H/r30R (wild-type; Exc+Rec+) cells, while they did not change that of Hs30R (uvrA-; Exc-Rec+) cells. To elucidate the mechanism of this antimutagenicity, modifying effect of the arsenics on UV-induced cytotoxicity for Hs30R and NG30 (recA-; Exc+Rec-) cells was examined. In a nutrient medium containing the arsenics, the survived cell fraction of NG30 after ultraviolet (UV) irradiation was markedly increased, whereas that of Hs30R was not altered. When the UV-exposed NG30 cells were subjected to recovery incubation in a nutrient medium containing the arsenics, the survived cell fraction was remarkably increased before the cell proliferation in a similar manner as liquid-holding recovery observed in an arsenic-free and non-nutrient medium in which DNA replication was suppressed. The arsenics were found to cause a delay of DNA replication in UV-irradiated NG30 cells. These results indicate that arsenite and arsenate enhance the error-free excision repair of UV-damaged DNA by retarding the DNA replication and thus by prolonging the period for excision repair. This may lead to the reduction in UV-induced mutation.

Effect of Streptococcus faecalis BIO-4R on intestinal flora of weanling piglets and calves

The effect of oral administration of Streptococcus faecalis BIO-4R, an antibiotic-resistant lactic acid bacterium, on the intestinal flora of weanling piglets and cows reared on antibiotic-containing diet was investigated. Fourteen days after administration of the bacteria, the intestinal flora of the piglets was examined. Animals of the administered group had stabilized lactic flora such as bifidobacteria, streptococci, and lactobacilli, whereas most animals of control group had reduced lactic flora. On the other hand, abundant yeasts were detected from the cecum, colon, and feces of the control animals, but the levels were significantly lower in the animals given strain BIO-4R. The density of Salmonella in the intestine appeared to be reduced after the administration of strain BIO-4R. The number of BIO-4R cells was shown to be 10 times lower in the duodenum and jejunum than in the ileum, suggesting that strain BIO-4R might have grown transiently in the ileum. The similar trend toward stabilization of the lactic flora was also observed in cows after administration of BIO-4R. In addition, an antagonistic effect of the strain against yeasts and Salmonella was suggested. These findings indicate that the oral administration of strain BIO-4R is one of the useful methods whereby the potentially deleterious effect of antibiotics on the intestinal flora of farm animals may be minimized.

[Tissue distribution of cefotetan in the field of obstetrics and gynecology]

The concentrations of cefotetan (CTT) in serum, uterus, ovary and oviduct tissues were determined in 30 patients after single intravenous drip infusion of 1 g over 1 hour. 1. Peripheral blood level of CTT was determined from 3 to 24 hours after injection. The maximum level was observed at 3 hours after injection and the concentration went down gradually with time. 2. The tissue concentrations of CTT in intrapelvic organs also tended to decrease with time and hardly detected 24 hours after injection. 3. From 3 to 12 hours after injection, mean penetration rate of CTT into intrapelvic organs was 40% and more. 4. Among intrapelvic organs, penetration rate into portio was highest, and others were ovary, uterine cervix, oviduct, endometrium, myometrium and uterine myoma in order of lowering penetration rate. 5. The penetration rate into uterine myoma was approximately half that into normal tissue. Considering above results, CTT is expected to show sufficient effects against Gram-negative bacilli and Bacteroides sp. when reasonably dosed.

[The antibacterial activity of new cephem antibiotics against clinical isolates. A comparison of the antibacterial activity of cefotaxime with 6 other antibiotics]

During the period from May through July 1981, a comparative study was carried out on the antibacterial activities of cefotaxime (CTX) and ceftizoxime (CZX), cefoperazone (CPZ), latamoxef (LMOX), cefotiam (CTM), cefmetazole (CMZ) and cefazolin (CEZ). CTX and these other cephem antibiotics were tested against fresh clinical isolates which had been obtained from clinical materials by the laboratories of 14 participating medical institutions. 1. The clinical isolates were obtained from various clinical materials in the following decreasing order: urine, sputum and pus/discharge; 85.7% of the isolates came from these materials. 2. Concerning the sources of each species of clinical isolates, it was found that P. aeruginosa was isolated from the greatest number -9- of different clinical materials. This was followed by E. coli and E. cloacae, each isolated from 8 different clinical materials, and C. freundii and E. aerogenes, each found in 7 different clinical materials. 3. In relation to S. pyogenes, S. agalactiae and S. pneumoniae, CTX showed the best antibacterial activity; the second most potent antibiotic was CZX. CMZ and LMOX were found to show relatively high MIC values for those species. Against S. aureus, CEZ showed the best antibacterial activity, but 3 resistant strains had MICs of greater than 100 micrograms/ml. 4. With regard to Gram-negative bacteria, CTX and CZX showed the best antibacterial activities for all of the species, except for P. aeruginosa. These were followed, in order, by LMOX and CPZ. Compared with these 4 antibiotics, CTM, CMZ and CEZ were found to have inferior antibacterial activities against these bacteria. In relation to P. aeruginosa, the peak of the MIC distribution for CPZ was 6.25 micrograms/ml, and this was the best antibacterial activity detected with the various antibiotics tested. This was followed by CTX (25 micrograms/ml) LMOX (25 micrograms/ml) and CZX (50 micrograms/ml). CTM had an MIC of 100 micrograms/ml for 1 strain, and MICs of greater than 100 micrograms/ml for all of the other strains of P. aeruginosa, indicating them to be resistant to this antibiotic. All of the strains were resistant to CMZ and CEZ, showing MICs of greater than 100 micrograms/ml. 5. For each of the tested antibiotics, no correlation was found between the MIC and the serogroup for either P. aeruginosa or S. marcescens.

Macromolecular alkaline phosphatase and an immunoglobulin G that inhibited alkaline phosphatase in a patient's serum

Macromolecular alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1) was found in the serum of a patient suffering from myasthenia gravis (adult type II) complicated with thymoma, and was shown by immunoelectrophoresis to be bound to immunoglobulins A and G (IgG). Placental alkaline phosphatase, complexed with either the patient's serum or IgG purified from the patient's serum, remained at the origin on electrophoresis, with significant loss of activity. Intestinal alkaline phosphatase, complexed with either the patient's serum or the patient's IgG, migrated to a position similar to that of the macromolecular alkaline phosphatase in the patient's serum on electrophoresis. About 50% of the placental alkaline phosphatase activity was inhibited with 0.1-0.2 g of the patient's IgG per liter, but 6.93 g of the IgG per liter was required for about 20% inhibition of the intestinal alkaline phosphatase activity. The complex of intestinal alkaline phosphatase with the patient's IgG was fairly heat stable. From these results, we concluded that the macromolecular alkaline phosphatase in the patient's serum consisted of intestinal alkaline phosphatase and IgG that was specific for placental alkaline phosphatase.

Macromolecular alkaline phosphatase and an immunoglobulin G that inhibited alkaline phosphatase in a patient's serum

Macromolecular alkaline phosphatase (EC 3.1.3.1) was found in the serum of a patient suffering from myasthenia gravis (adult type II) complicated with thymoma, and was shown by immunoelectrophoresis to be bound to immunoglobulins A and G (IgG). Placental alkaline phosphatase, complexed with either the patient's serum or IgG purified from the patient's serum, remained at the origin on electrophoresis, with significant loss of activity. Intestinal alkaline phosphatase, complexed with either the patient's serum or the patient's IgG, migrated to a position similar to that of the macromolecular alkaline phosphatase in the patient's serum on electrophoresis. About 50% of the placental alkaline phosphatase activity was inhibited with 0.1-0.2 g of the patient's IgG per liter, but 6.93 g of the IgG per liter was required for about 20% inhibition of the intestinal alkaline phosphatase activity. The complex of intestinal alkaline phosphatase with the patient's IgG was fairly heat stable. From these results, we concluded that the macromolecular alkaline phosphatase in the patient's serum consisted of intestinal alkaline phosphatase and IgG that was specific for placental alkaline phosphatase.

A morphologic study of the behavior of biogenic amines in experimental acetic acid gastric ulcer

Morphological observations were made of the behavior of biogenic amines in the gastric wall of rats with acetic acid-induced ulcer. In the normal rat stomach, abundant adrenergic fibers were seen in the adventitia of arteries and arterioles, with frequently distributed mast cells in their environs, in all gastric wall layers. Mast cells had a more frequent distribution in the antral region than in the corpus ventriculi while enterochromaffin-like cells (EC-like cells) were found with greater frequencies in the latter region of gastric wall. Adrenergic fibers were abundant around blood vessels in perilesional area of the gastric wall of rats with acetic acid ulcer. Mast cells, seen more frequently in the antral region as in the normal rats, showed degranulation in these rats. The population of PAS-positive mucous cells reached its peak in 10 days after injection of acetic acid and subsequently declined with healing of the ulcer, thus remarkably concordant with the ulcer index. Local administration of serotonin produced angiospasm in the greater omentum. The finding indicates a possible participation of arteriospasm by adrenergic nerve fibers in the pathogenesis of gastric ulcer. The results of the present study strongly suggest that biogenic amines have bearing as an aggressive factor upon the angiospasm theory of ulcerogenesis.