Hepatitis B virus transgenic mice for the model of anti-hepatitis B virus drug study

OBJECTIVE

To establish hepatitis B virus (HBV) transgenic mice models and to investigate if the model can be used for the evaluation of anti-HBV drugs.

METHODS

HBV transgenic mice models were produced by microinjection to analyze the integration, expression of HBV in the transgenic mice by nested PCR, southern blot, immunohistochemistry, and ELISA. Sixty mice whose HBV DNA, HBsAg were positive were divided into 6 groups randomly, in which 3 groups were given drugs: lamivudine administrated by perfusion of stomach tube (100mg x kg(-1) x day(-1) for 21 days); thymosine administrated by abdomen injection (3mg x day(-1) for 90 days); and DNA vaccine of 100 microg by muscle injection. The other 3 groups were negative control.

RESULTS

Lamivudine, thymosine and DNA vaccine made HBV DNA become negative in the serum of HBV transgenic mice. The negative ratio was highest in lamivudine treatment group. HBV DNA became positive again when lamivudine terminated.

CONCLUSION

Limvudine, thymosine, and DNA vaccine can inhibit HBV replication. Transgenic mice might be used as the model for anti-HBV drug screening and evaluation.

[Inhibition of proliferation and induction of apoptosis by simvastatin in K562 leukemic cell line]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the anti-apoptotic mechanism and explore approach to inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis of chronic myclogenous leukemia (CML) cells.

METHODS

K562 cell line was used to evaluate the effects of simvastatin, an inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, and the combination of simvastatin with chemotherapeutic agents on the proliferation and apoptosis of CML cells.

RESULTS

Simvastatin could significantly inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis of K562 cells, and could increase the sensitivity of K562 cells to chemotherapeutic agents. Addition of mevalonate, the immediate product of HMG-CoA, could completely reverse this effect.

CONCLUSION

Simvastatin inhibited proliferation and induced apoptosis of K562 cells through inhibiting the metabolic pathway of mevalonate. It is promising that HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors may be an effective chemotherapeutic approach to the treatment of CML.

[Antigen presenting role of dendritic cell proliferated from peripheral blood monocytes in patients with chronic hepatitis B]

OBJECTIVE

To study the presenting effect of dendritic cell (DC) proliferated from peripheral blood monocytes in patients with chronic hepatitis B on HBsAg.

METHODS

DC proliferated from patient's peripheral blood monocytes by adding GM-CSF and IL-4 were incubated with HBsAg for 1.5h at different concentrations, then mixed with autologous T cell and cocultured in 96-well flat-bottomed microtiter plates for 5 d at 37 degrees C and 5% CO(2). (3)H-TdR was added 13h before the culture completion, and finally the cells were gathered and the cpm was tested.

RESULTS

The proliferation of T cell by DC treated by HBsAg is significantly higher than untreated.

CONCLUSION

DC cultured from peripheral blood monocytes in patients with chronic hepatitis B plays a role in presenting HBsAg.

Adenosquamous lung carcinoma: clinical characteristics, surgical treament and prognosis

OBJECTIVE

The effectiveness of surgical resection of adenosquamous carcinoma of the lung remains poorly defined because of the histology's relatively low frequency, the failure in most published series to separate adenosquamous carcinoma from the other variants of non-small cell lung carcinoma. To define the effectiveness of treatment of adenosquamous carcinoma, we have retrospectively reviewed our hospital experience over a 12-year period.

METHODS

Retrospectively reviewed 22 cases of adenosquamous carcinoma who were surgically treated, except one patient, in the PUMCH from Jan. 1985 to Aug. 1997. This series constitutes the 1.9% of a total of 1 245 patients with all types of surgical treatment for the primary lung cancer during the same time.

RESULTS

The adenosquanous carcinoma was mostly presented in the old patients with a mean age of 60 years and mostly located in the peripheral of lung (n = 20). The overall 5-year survival was 23%. Those with stage I tumors survival was only 18% (n = 13), stage II 5%. The survival in stage III tumos was not longer than 25 months and in stage IV survival was not longer than 12 months.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that adenosquamous carcinoma of lung was a virulent tumor, which exhibited highly aggressive biological behavior with early lymph nodes metastasis (46%) and its prognosis was worse than that of both squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.

[Effect of elevated CO2 concentration on photosynthesis and antioxidative enzyme activities of wheat plant grown under drought condition]

The photosynthesis and antioxidative enzyme activities of wheat plants grown in two open-top chambers with CO2 concentrations of 350 mumol.mol-1 and 700 mumol.mol-1 were examined under drought stress. The result showed that elevated CO2 concentration obviously enhanced the photosynthesis, stomatal resistance and water use efficiency, but decreased the transpiration of wheat. Doubled CO2 concentration significantly increased the activities of CAT, POD and SOD, which enhanced the abilities of antioxidative defence and drought tolerance.

Fas ligand expression and apoptosis in primary rat hepatocytes induced by lipopolysaccharide

OBJECTIVE

To study hepatocyte apoptosis induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) directly and indirectly, and to elucidate the mechanisms of liver damage in endotoxemia.

METHODS

Rat hepatocytes were isolated using collagenase perfusion, and cultured in RPMI 1640 medium. After 24h or 48 h of LPS treatment at various concentrations (1, 5, 10 mug/ml), membrane-bound Fas ligand (mFasL) expression in hepatocytes was determined by immunocytochemistry, and apoptosis was detected by TUNEL. In another set of experiments it was examined whether LPS-treated hepatocytes and its supernatants can stimulate apoptosis in LPS-untreated hepatocytes.

RESULTS

LPS markedly stimulated mFasL expression and apoptosis in hepatocytes in a dose and time (24-48 h) dependent manner. In the co-culture system LPS-treated hepatocytes significantly induced LPS-untreated hepatocyte apoptosis. In contrast, there was no apoptotic cells observed in the supernatant stimulation system.

CONCLUSION

LPS not only directly causes hepatocyte apoptosis, but also indirectly induces apoptosis of LPS-untreated hepatocytes by way of stimulating mFasL expression in hepatocytes.

[Response of wheat seedlings with different drought resistance to water deficiency and NaCl stresses]

The growth, photosynthesis, transpiration and antioxidative defence system of the seedlings of drought-tolerant wheat strain 8139 and drought-sensitive strain Ganmai No. 8 at 20% PEG 6000 and 1.2% NaCl stresses were compared. The results showed that strain 8139 had a strong drought resistance, but a weak salt resistance. The root growth of both wheat strains was inhibited significantly under salt stress, but stimulated slightly under drought stress. The net photosynthetic rate and water use efficiency of strain 8139 were significantly different from those of Ganmai No. 8 at every stage under both drought and salt stresses, and its transpiration rate was significantly different from that of Ganmai No. 8 only at 7th and 14th day after being stressed. The MDA content in strain 8139 after being stressed for 7 days was much lower than that in Ganmai No. 8 under drought stress, but there was no significant difference between the two strains under NaCl stress. Correspondingly, there was no significant difference in the fructan content and SOD and APX activities between strain 8139 and Ganmai No. 8, but a significant difference in GSH content was found under salt stress. Under drought stress, the contents of fructan and GSH and the activities of SOD and APX in strain 8139 were much higher than those in Ganmai No. 8 at different stage, and strain 8139 exhibited a strong antioxidative defence ability.

Construction of the recombinant retrovirus vector of HBV-S gene and it's expression in eukaryotic cells

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness of recombinant retrovirus vector in gene therapy.

METHODS

The retroviral vector PLXSN-S was constructed and transferred into PA317 by means of electroporation, then HepG(2), P815, and EL4 cells were infected with the pseudovirus produced from PA317, which highly expressed HBsAg. HBsAg expression was tested by RT-PCR and ELISA.

RESULTS

HBsAg was expressed variously in the eukaryotic cells mentioned above. HBsAg (A value) of the cell supernatants (48 h) were 0.92, 0.09, 0.47, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The vector used in this study is an effective one to carry genes of interest to target cells and it may be useful in the test for gene therapy.

[Resistance of Bcl-2 adenovirus vector to HepG(2) cell apoptosis induced by ethanol]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of Bcl-2 family proteins in hepatocytic apoptosis caused by ethanol.

METHODS

We induced hepatocytic apoptosis in HepG(2) cells with ethanol and detected the apoptosis with TUNEL assay. Bcl-2, Bax, and Bak protein expression in the hepatocytes was determined by immunohistochemistry method. We also observed the expression of Bcl-2 protein in HepG(2) cells infected with Bcl-2 adenovirus vector and its protection against hepatocytic apoptosis caused by ethanol.

RESULTS

No obvious cytotoxicity was noted in 0.2% and 1% ethanol treatment group, while it developed in 3% ethanol treatment group and accompanied by a marked expression of Bax, Bak proteins.

CONCLUSION

The overexpression of Bax, Bak proteins may play a role in HepG(2) cell apoptosis induced by ethanol and can be blocked effectively by Bcl-2 adenovirus vector.

[The effects of sodium nitroprusside-induced hypotension at different levels on cerebral blood flow and metabolism: a clinical study]

OBJECTIVE

The clinical experiment was designed for observing the effects of deliberate hypotension at different level on cerebral blood flow and metabolism.

METHODS

30 ASA Grade I-II patients were randomly allocated to one of three groups (each group n = 10). Hypotension was induced by sodium nitroprusside in group 1[mean arterial pressure (MAP) = 55 mmHg] and group 2 (MAP = 65 mmHg). Group 3 (control) was on normotension. The changes of cerebral blood flow during hypotension were estimated according to the variability of cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV) in the middle cerebral artery(MCA), which was obtained through transcranial Doppler ultrasonography (TCD).

RESULTS

Hypotension caused a moderate decrease in CBFV, but no significant difference, in CBFV and oxygen saturation in internal jugular vein(SjO2), either among three groups or during the procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

It is safe for cerebral perfusion and metabolism with deliberate hypotension at MAP = 55 mmHg.

[Effects of hepatitis B virus X gene on apoptosis and the activity of telomerase in HepG(2) cells]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effects of hepatitis B virus X gene on hepatic carcinoma.

METHODS

The expression vectors of HBs gene and HBc gene (pCEP4-S and pCEP4-C) were transfected into HepG(2) cells by electroporation technique, and the cells, HepG(2) cells which contained the expression vectors of HBs (pCEP4-X) were recovered and cultured stably. The activity index of telomerase and the apoptosis rates in three cell lines were determined by PCR-ELISA and flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The 39.50% of cells expressed HBx gene came into S-phase of cell cycle, and the activity index of telomerase was higher in the cell line (3.95 +/- 0.07) than in other cell lines and control (F=20.85, P<0.01; d'=2.15, P<0.05) after synchronized culture. Induced by antisense oligonucleotides against telomerase the apoptosis of cell line expressed HBx gene reduced (apoptosis rate: 1.75%). The activity of cells also reduced with the dose increase of the antisense oligonucleotides and it showed a dose-response relationship.

CONCLUSION

The activity of HepG(2) cell can be increased and the cell apoptosis can be reduced by HBx gene. It may be another malignant process of hepatocytes.

Relationship between serum or tissue ouabain and blood pressure in 1k1c hypertensive rats

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of endogenous ouabain (EO) in the development of hypertension and the characteristics of EO secretion in 1k1c (one kidney, one clipped) hypertensive rats.

METHODS

EO content of serum and tissues in 1k1c hypertensive rats and normal control Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats was detected by the method of enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The relationship between serum or tissue ouabain and blood pressure was analyzed in 1k1c hypertensive rats.

RESULTS

The ouabain content of serum, heart, kidney, adrenal gland, pituitary and hypothalamus was significantly higher in 1k1c hypertensive rats than that in normal control SD rats (2.25, 2.63, 3.35, 40.37, 3.34, 15.7 micrograms/kg tissue in 1k1c hypertensive rats vs 1.12, 1.79, 1.73, 27.54, 1.83, 10.10 micrograms/kg tissue in control SD rats, respectively. P < 0.05 for all of these comparisons). The ouabain content of the adrenal gland and the hypothalamus was higher than that of other tissues or serum, both in 1k1c rats and in control SD rats. The EO content of serum, kidney and hypothalamus was significantly correlated with blood pressure in 1k1c hypertensive rats (r = 0.59, 0.63, 0.52, respectively. P < 0.05). The ouabain content of heart, liver, adrenal gland and pituitary was not correlated with blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

EO might play an important role in the development of hypertension in 1k1c hypertensive rats. The adrenal gland may be a major source of EO and the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis may be involved in the regulation of EO secretion.

[Concept of ecosystem management and its essential elements]

Ecosystem management originates from the tradition fields of natural resources management and utilization, and develops in the 1990's. Based on our best understanding of the ecosystem composition, structure and function, and in definite spatiotemporal scales, it integrates human values and social-economic principles into managing ecosystems to resotre and/or sustain ecosystem integrity and sustainability. Ecosystem management requires the collection of field data and the monitoring of ecosystem dynamics at multiple scales. The essential elements of ecosystem management include clear management goals, definite ecological boundaries and units, sound ecological understanding, appropriate scale and hierarchic structure, understanding of ecosystem uncertainty, adaptive management, cooperation between agency and individuals, and viewing human and its value as ecosystem components. The goal of ecosystem management focuses on ecosystem sustainbility.

Hepatitis B virus X protein activates expression of IGF-IR and VEGF in hepatocellular carcinoma cells

OBJECTIVE

The expression of insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGF-IR) and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in HepG(2) cells transfected with a hepatitis B virus X (HBx) expression vector was investigated in an attempt to study their possible relationship to the growth of HBx-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

METHODS

The eucaryotic expression vector of HBx gene was constructed and introduced into HepG(2) cells. The modified cell HepaG(2)-X was synchronized in a quiescent state by culture of serum deprivation. The IGF-IR and VEGF were analyzed by immunohistochemical and Western blot technique.

RESULTS

The positive rate of IGF-IR expression was 84%A3% in the transfected HBx gene cells, 26%A4% in X(0) control cells. The positive rate of VEGF expressed x cells was 83%A5%, X(0) cells was 28%A6% (P<0.001). The level of IGF-IR and VEGF in serum-starved x modified cells was 1.5 times higher than that of synchronized X(0) modified cells.

CONCLUSION

Since the IGF-IR is a very important growth factor in sustaining the tumor abnormal growth and the VEGF has a crucial role in inducting tumor angiogenesis, our findings indicate that HBx may play an important role in the processes of HCC by activating IGF-IR and VEGF gene expression.

Automated parallel DNA sequencing on multiple channel microchips

We report automated DNA sequencing in 16-channel microchips. A microchip prefilled with sieving matrix is aligned on a heating plate affixed to a movable platform. Samples are loaded into sample reservoirs by using an eight-tip pipetting device, and the chip is docked with an array of electrodes in the focal plane of a four-color scanning detection system. Under computer control, high voltage is applied to the appropriate reservoirs in a programmed sequence that injects and separates the DNA samples. An integrated four-color confocal fluorescent detector automatically scans all 16 channels. The system routinely yields more than 450 bases in 15 min in all 16 channels. In the best case using an automated base-calling program, 543 bases have been called at an accuracy of >99%. Separations, including automated chip loading and sample injection, normally are completed in less than 18 min. The advantages of DNA sequencing on capillary electrophoresis chips include uniform signal intensity and tolerance of high DNA template concentration. To understand the fundamentals of these unique features we developed a theoretical treatment of cross-channel chip injection that we call the differential concentration effect. We present experimental evidence consistent with the predictions of the theory.

Substitution of betaGlu(201) in the alpha(3)beta(3)gamma subcomplex of the F(1)-ATPase from the thermophilic Bacillus PS3 increases the affinity of catalytic sites for nucleotides

In the crystal structure of bovine mitochondrial F(1)-ATPase (MF(1)) (Abrahams, J. P., Leslie, A. G. W., Lutter, R., and Walker, J. E. (1994) Nature 370, 621-628), the side chain oxygen of betaThr(163) interacts directly with Mg(2+) coordinated to 5'-adenylyl beta, gamma-imidodiphosphate or ADP bound to catalytic sites of beta subunits present in closed conformations. In the unliganded beta subunit present in an open conformation, the hydroxyl of betaThr(163) is hydrogen-bonded to the carboxylate of betaGlu(199). Substitution of betaGlu(201) (equivalent to betaGlu(199) in MF(1)) in the alpha(3)beta(3)gamma subcomplex of the F(1)-ATPase from the thermophilic Bacillus PS3 with cysteine or valine increases the propensity to entrap inhibitory MgADP in a catalytic site during hydrolysis of 50 microM ATP. These substitutions lower K(m3) (the Michaelis constant for trisite ATP hydrolysis) relative to that of the wild type by 25- and 10-fold, respectively. Fluorescence quenching of alpha(3)(betaE201C/Y341W)(3)gamma and alpha(3)(betaY341W)(3)gamma mutant subcomplexes showed that MgATP and MgADP bind to the third catalytic site of the double mutant with 8.4- and 4.4-fold higher affinity, respectively, than to the single mutant. These comparisons support the hypothesis that the hydrogen bond observed between the side chains of betaThr(163) and betaGlu(199) in the unliganded catalytic site in the crystal structure of MF(1) stabilizes the open conformation of the catalytic site during ATP hydrolysis.

Inhibition of polyglutamine protein aggregation and cell death by novel peptides identified by phage display screening

Proteins with expanded polyglutamine domains cause eight inherited neurodegenerative diseases, including Huntington's, but the molecular mechanism(s) responsible for neuronal degeneration are not yet established. Expanded polyglutamine domain proteins possess properties that distinguish them from the same proteins with shorter glutamine repeats. Unlike proteins with short polyglutamine domains, proteins with expanded polyglutamine domains display unique protein interactions, form intracellular aggregates, and adopt a novel conformation that can be recognized by monoclonal antibodies. Any of these polyglutamine length-dependent properties could be responsible for the pathogenic effects of expanded polyglutamine proteins. To identify peptides that interfere with pathogenic polyglutamine interactions, we screened a combinatorial peptide library expressed on M13 phage pIII protein to identify peptides that preferentially bind pathologic-length polyglutamine domains. We identified six tryptophan-rich peptides that preferentially bind pathologic-length polyglutamine domain proteins. Polyglutamine-binding peptide 1 (QBP1) potently inhibits polyglutamine protein aggregation in an in vitro assay, while a scrambled sequence has no effect on aggregation. QBP1 and a tandem repeat of QBP1 also inhibit aggregation of polyglutamine-yellow fluorescent fusion protein in transfected COS-7 cells. Expression of QBP1 potently inhibits polyglutamine-induced cell death. Selective inhibition of pathologic interactions of expanded polyglutamine domains with themselves or other proteins may be a useful strategy for preventing disease onset or for slowing progression of the polyglutamine repeat diseases.

Migration time correction for the analysis of derivatized amino acids and oligosaccharides by micellar capillary electrochromatography

Migration-time reproducibility is essential in the use of capillary electrophoresis to identify components in mixtures. Two methods based on the migration time of either one or two reference markers are proposed for improving migration time reproducibility. These methods were evaluated to determine the migration time reproducibility for phenylthiohydantoin-amino acids, fluorescein thiohydantoin-amino acids, and tetramethylrhodamine labeled oligosaccharides. In the best case, the relative standard deviation of the migration time was reduced from >3% without correction to <0.04% with the two-marker correction.

A multiple-capillary electrophoresis system for small-scale DNA sequencing and analysis

A five-capillary system has been developed for DNA sequencing and analysis. The post-column fluorescence detector is based on a sheath-flow cuvette. The instrument provides uniform and continuous illumination of the samples. The cuvette virtually eliminates cross-talk in the fluorescence signal between capillaries. Discrete single-photon counting avalanche photodiodes provide high efficiency light detection. The instrument has detection limits (3sigma) of 130 +/- 30 fluorescein molecules injected onto each capillary. Over 650 bases of sequence at 98.8% accuracy were generated in 100 min at 50 degrees C from M13mp18. Separation and detection of short tandem repeats proved efficient and accurate with the use of internal standards for direct comparison of migration times between capillaries.

Length of protection by murine vaccination with living infective third-stage hookworm larvae

OBJECTIVE

To determine the length of protection by murine immunization with living third-stage hookworm larvae (L3) as measured by reduction in worm burden and host serologic antibody responses.

METHODS

Outbred male (Kunming strain) mice were immunized subcutaneously with 500 L3 once every 2 weeks for a total of immunization for 3 times, and then challenged orally with 1000 L3 for 1 to 8 weeks after the final immunization. Host protective immunity was determined both by the reduction in worm burden as measured by the number of L3 recovered from murine lungs 48-hour post-challenge, as well as by measurement of circulating antibodies. Histopathological responses were also examined. Non-immunized mice served as negative controls.

RESULTS

The protection by L3 immunization declined over time. One or 2 weeks after the final immunization, worm burdens were reduced 72% and 77.5% after challenge respectively. In contrast, only 37% reduction in worm burden was observed when the L3 challenge was delayed by 4 weeks and protection was almost entirely lost when there was an 8 week delay between the time of final immunization and challenge. The reduced level of protection over time partially correlated with diminishing L3-specific antibody responses. Host inflammation in the lungs of immunized mice also diminished.

CONCLUSION

The protection afforded by living L3 immunization is maximal for the first two weeks after immunization, but then declines significantly over the ensuing weeks.

Cutaneous and subcutaneous mast cell and eosinophil responses after challenge in mice vaccinated with living infective third-stage hookworm larvae

OBJECTIVE

To examine the quantitative and qualitative alterations in mast cells and eosinophils distributed in the cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues of hookworm-infected, uninfected and vaccinated mice.

METHODS

Outbred male Kunming strain mice, weighing 18-22 g, were vaccinated thrice by subcutaneous inoculation with 500 living third-stage infective larvae (L3) of Ancylostoma caninum (A. caninum) every 2 weeks, and then challenged subcutaneously with 500 L3 one week after the final immunization. Uninfected mice and non-immunized mice but infected with L3 served as controls. The abdominal skin at the site of percutaneous entry was excised from challenged mice at intervals between 6 hours and 7 days after challenge, fixed, and then examined by light microscopy after staining with either toluidine blue or hematoxylin and eosin.

RESULTS

The total number of mast cells appearing in cutaneous, and subcutaneous tissues, and underlying abdominal musculature of immunized mice increased significantly compared with non-immunized mice. Mast cells from hookworm-infected mice showed evidence of membrane rupture and degranulation in contrast to the intact appearance of mast cells from uninfected mice. The degree of mast cell degranulation was greater in vaccinated and challenged mice when compared with non-immunized and infected mice. Similarly, eosinophilic infiltration was greatly enhanced after L3 infection. Tissues from vaccinated mice had a greater number of eosinophils than non-immunized mice after infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Mast cell alterations appearing earlier than tissue eosinophilic infiltration is major inflammatory response to Ancylostoma caninum (A. caninum) L3 infection in mice. These processes are more obvious in L3-vaccinated mice.

Oxidation of the alpha(3)(betaD311C/R333C)(3)gamma subcomplex of the thermophilic Bacillus PS3 F(1)-ATPase indicates that only two beta subunits can exist in the closed conformation simultaneously

In the crystal structure of the bovine heart mitochondrial F(1)-ATPase (Abrahams, J. P., Leslie, A. G. W., Lutter, R., and Walker, J. E. (1994) Nature 370, 621-628), the two liganded beta subunits, one with MgAMP-PNP bound to the catalytic site (beta(T)) and the other with MgADP bound (beta(D)) have closed conformations. The empty beta subunit (beta(E)) has an open conformation. In beta(T) and beta(D), the distance between the carboxylate of beta-Asp(315) and the guanidinium of beta-Arg(337) is 3.0-4.0 A. These side chains are at least 10 A apart in beta(E). The alpha(3)(betaD311C/R333C)(3)gamma subcomplex of TF(1) with the corresponding residues substituted with cysteine has very low ATPase activity unless it is reduced prior to assay or assayed in the presence of dithiothreitol. The reduced subcomplex hydrolyzes ATP at 50% the rate of wild-type and is rapidly inactivated by oxidation by CuCl(2) with or without magnesium nucleotides bound to catalytic sites. Titration of the subcomplex with iodo[(14)C]acetamide after prolonged treatment with CuCl(2) in the presence or absence of 1 mM MgADP revealed nearly two free sulfhydryl groups/mol of enzyme. Therefore, one pair of introduced cysteines is located on a beta subunit that exists in the open or partially open conformation even when catalytic sites are saturated with MgADP. Since V(max) of ATP hydrolysis is attained when three catalytic sites of F(1) are saturated, the catalytic site that binds ATP must be closing as the catalytic site that releases products is opening.

[Production of HBV surface antigen-specific target cell]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the hepatitis B virus surface antigen (HBsAg)-specific cytotoxic T-cell (CTL) response during hepatitis development and investigate the effect of some factors on CTL response.

METHODS

The recombinant retrovirus plasmid PLXSN-S was tranferred into PA317 by electroporation and the pseudoviruses produced from PA317 were used to infect EL4. Clones which highly expressed HBsAg were selected with limited dilution.

RESULTS

A clone expressing-HBsAg the highest (A = 0.85 in supernatant at 48th hour) was obtained which steadly expressed HBsAg in vitro after at least 100 passages. It worked very well when used as target cells in CTL response after C57 mice immunized with PLXSN-S and recombinant adenovirus vector (rAdv-B7-2-S).

CONCLUSION

We constructed HBsAg-specific target cell line which steadly expressed HBsAg. It may play an important role in HBsAg CTL response and immunopathogenetic mechanisms of hepatitis B.

Separating DNA sequencing fragments without a sieving matrix

The possibility of separating appropriately labeled DNA fragments using free-flow capillary electrophoresis was predicted a few years ago based on simple theoretical arguments. Free-flow separation of double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) fragments in the 100-1000 base range was later demonstrated using a streptavidin label. In this article, we now report that end-labeled free-flow electrophoresis (ELFSE) can also be used to sequence single-stranded DNA (ssDNA). The first 100 bases of a DNA sequencing reaction were read without any sieving matrix when fractionated streptavidin was added to the 5'-end of the ssDNA fragments. These separations required only 18 min and did not require coated capillaries. An analysis of the results indicates that sample injection, analyte-wall interactions and thermal diffusion are the limiting factors at this time. Extrapolating from our data, we predict that several hundred bases could be sequenced in less than 30 min with the proper conditions. ELFSE thus offers an attractive potential alternative to polymer solutions for DNA sequencing in capillaries and microchips.

[The effect of hepatitis B virus x protein on cell cycling]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of HBx protein on cell cycle progression and its molecular mechanism.

METHODS

The eucaryotic expression vector pCEP4 of HBx gene was constructed and introduced into HepG2 cells. The HepG2 cells transfected with X gene (X cell) were synchronized in a quiescent state by culture of serum deprivation. Flow cytometry, immunohistochemical and Western Blot analysis were performed.

RESULTS

70% HepG2 cells transfected with pCEP4 (X0 cells) was induced in G0-G1 phase, only 56% X cells in G0-G1 phase, almost identical to its parental HepG2 cells cultured in serum medium. To further understand the molecular mechanism of cell cycle progression, the p21CIP1/WAF1 and PCNA were examined. HBx was found to strongly increase the level of PCNA in X cells (86 +/- 3)% compared with X0 cells (9 +/- 5)%, and greatly decrease the level of p21CIP1/WAF1 protein in X cells (16 +/- 6)% compared with X0 cells (86 +/- 8)% (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest a molecular mechanism by which HBx likely contributes to viral carcinogenesis. By deregulating cell cycle checkpoint control, HBx could participate in the selection of cells that are genetically unstable, some of which would accumulate unrepaired transforming mutations.

Stanniocalcin 2: characterization of the protein and its localization to human pancreatic alpha cells

Stanniocalcin (STC) is a hormone that was originally identified in fish, where it inhibits calcium uptake by the gills and gut and stimulates phosphate adsorption by the kidney. Recently, two mammalian homologues of stanniocalcin were identified. The first (STC1) shows 61% identity to the fish stanniocalcins and appears to have a function similar to that of the fish stanniocalcins. The second homologue (STC2) is 30-38% identical to the fish stanniocalcins, and is characterized by unique cysteine and histidine motifs that are not found in the other stanniocalcins. We purified both the native hamster and recombinant human STC2 proteins and obtained a partial amino acid sequence of the hamster protein. Both proteins behave as a disulfide bonded homodimer, which undergoes post-translational modification(s). The STC2 gene was localized to human chromosome 5q35. Northern blot analysis revealed that the primary site of human STC2 production is the pancreas, and immunostaining localized the STC2 protein to a subpopulation of cells in the islet. Double immunostaining for STC2 and either insulin or glucagon revealed that STC2 protein is found in the alpha cells, but not the beta cells. We speculate that STC2 may play a role in glucose homeostasis.

Thoracoscopic procedure for intrathoracic diseases: current status in mainland China

One hundred and five patients underwent a procedure of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) during a period of 5 years, in the Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China. Among them, there were 36 cases suffering from spontaneous pneumothorax, 24 having a nodule of the lung, nine intrathoracic multiple nodules, 10 undefined pleural effusions, eight mediastinal mass, 15 interstitial fibrosis, two pericardial effusion, and one severe emphysema. In all patients of this series, the diagnosis was demonstrated and the suitable management was performed.

[Expression of HBsAg by using various eukaryotic expression vectors]

OBJECTIVE

To establish efficient eukaryotic expression system of HBsAg and its variants.

METHODS

A series of expression vectors were constructed by cloning HBV S gene and its mutant genes from recombinant vector pBluescript pBKS(+)-HBs containing S gene and its mutant genes into eukaryotic expression vectors: pMEP4, pCEP4, pLXSN, PXT1, pcDNA3. These recombinant eukaryotic expression vectors were transfected into human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2).

RESULTS

The cell lines expressing recombinant proteins were stably established.

CONCLUSION

All expression vectors could express HBsAg and its variants, but their transfecting efficiency, expressing efficiency and stability of expression were different. The establishment of highly efficient expression system in this study paves the way for further study on biologic characters of HBsAg variants, genetic immunization and genetic therapy.

Enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blotting analysis of human serologic responses to infective hookworm larval antigen

OBJECTIVE

To explore the possibility of using specific antigens for immunodiagnosis of hookworm disease in endemic area.

METHOD

Infective third-stage larvae of the canine hookworm, Ancylostoma caninum (A. caninum), were prepared as the source of antigen. Enzyme-linked immunoelectrotransfer blotting (EITB) was employed as an immunodiagnostic method.

RESULTS

Two immunodominant bands of hookworm antigens (42 kDa and 55 kDa) were recognized by the sera of hookworm-infected patients (serum dilution 1:200; antigen centrifuged at 36,000 r/m for 20 minutes, but not by sera from negative controls.

CONCLUSION

The 42 kDa and 55 kDa A. caninum antigens might be the specific antigens that could be used for immunodiagnosis of hookworm disease in endemic area.

[Humoral and cell mediated immunity induced by HBV-S gene recombinant retroviral vector]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness of recombined retrovirus vector in gene therapy.

METHODS

The retroviral vector PLXSN-S was constructed and transferred into PA317 by means of electroporation, then HepG2, P815, and EL4 cells were infected with the pseudovirus produced from PA317. In the meantime the gene immunization of PLXSN-S was also studied.

RESULTS

HBsAg was expressed variously in the eukaryotic cells mentioned above and successfully evoked antibody response and CTL response to HBsAg after gene immunization.

CONCLUSION

Intramuscular DNA immunization represents an efficient technique for priming CTL and antibody response to HBsAg. PLXSN may be used as an effective vector to carry genes of interest to target cells and immunization with it's DNA vaccine might be clinically useful for gene therapy.

[Management of thoracic esophageal perforation]

OBJECTIVE

To compare surgical management of esophageal perforation on thoracic portion with nonoperative management.

METHODS

Seventeen patients were treated for thoracic esophageal perforation at our department between 1962 and 1996. Among them, seven patients underwent nonoperative management. The remaining 10 had operative procedures (primary repair in 5, esophagostomy in 3, and drainage alone in 2 cases).

RESULTS

Postoperative leakage occurred in 2 patients; among the two leakages, 1 required cervical esophagostomy, and 1 became a controlled fistula needed pleural drainage and feeding jejunostomy. One patient had anastomotic narrowing after esophagostomy. Of patients with nonoperative management, five survived (with 28% in-hospital mortality rate), Whereas only one patient, who was treated by surgical procedure, died (with 10% inhospital mortality rate). The mean hospital stay in nonoperative and operative group were (28.3 +/- 12.9) days and (57.6 +/- 52.7) days respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical observation suggested that rapid diagnosis of thoracic esophageal perforations is essential and once the diagnosis of esophageal perforation is established, a appropriate management must be selected promptly.

[Expression of recombinant inserting mutants of HBsAg in vitro and its antigenic analysis]

OBJECTIVE

To study the immunological characteristics of two inserting variants of HBsAg as further to elucidate the role of inserting mutants in the development of HBsAg-negative chronic hepatitis B.

METHODS

The inserting mutants of HBsAg were constructed by PCR-mediated mutagenesis in vitro. Epstein-Barr virus vector pCEP4 and retrovirus vector PXT1 carrying the mutant genes of HBsAg were transfected into mammalian cells. The affinity of polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies against HBsAg for mutant antigens were studied by ELISA and western blot.

RESULTS

Two insertions were introduced into s gene, and a six nucleotide insertion introduced two aminoacids (Arg and Ala) between codons 122 and 123 of the s polypeptide, whereas a nine nucleotide insertion introduced three aminoacids(Arg, Gly and Ala) between codons 123 and 124. These s genes were subcloned into two eukaryotic expression vectors (pCEP4 and PXT1), and the recombinant eukaryotic expression plasmids had been constructed, which could express s polypeptide in mammalian cells. Cell lines expressing wild-type or mutant-type HBsAg stably were obtained after transfection of these vectors into mammalian cells. Two two inserting variants failed to react with polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies against HBsAg by ELISA and Western blot.

CONCLUSION

The insertions may result in a conformational change of the s protein, and affect its antigenicities, suggesting that the inserting mutations may be critical for immunoescape of HBV and in part responsible for chronicity of HBsAg-negative patients.

Dexamethasone stimulates human A1 adenosine receptor (A1AR) gene expression through multiple regulatory sites in promoter B

The expression of the human A1 adenosine receptor gene is controlled by two promoters, promoters A and B, and they are located 600 base pairs apart. The characteristics of the two promoters differ by the activity of expression, tissue specificity, and the potential regulatory elements around them. Promoter A is more active but its expression is observed only in selected tissues, whereas promoter B is constitutively expressed but at much reduced levels. In Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells transiently transfected with plasmids containing either promoter linked to a reporter gene, dexamethasone (dex) can stimulate (or enhance) the expression of promoter B much more effectively than that of promoter A. Mutation and deletion studies on plasmids containing promoter B have shown that the stimulation is mediated through multiple regulatory sites, including a serum response element, AP1, and TATA box. However, a single-glucocorticoid response element monomer-binding site between promoters A and B does not have significant contribution to dex-regulated expression. The interactions between glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and some regulatory sites are probably occurring via this protein (GR) interacting with other DNA-binding proteins because there is no GR DNA-binding sequence in the sites studied. The stimulation can be eliminated by mifepristone, an antagonist of GR, indicating the involvement of GR in gene regulation. In addition, dex treatment also stimulated the expression of A1 adenosine receptors in CHO cells transfected with the plasmids containing contiguous genomic sequences of promoter B or promoters A and B linked to the receptor-coding sequence. When promoter A is active and both promoter A and B are present in a construct, dex treatment induced a much smaller percentage of stimulation.

[Open lung biopsy in diagnosis of interstitial lung disease]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the role of open lung biopsy in diagnosis of interstitial lung disease.

METHODS

24 patients with interstitial lung disease who underwent open lung biopsy from 1993 to June 1998 were reviewed.

RESULTS

The documented pathologic diagnosis in 24 patients with interstitial lung disease who underwent open lung biopsies were: 7 IPF (UIP), 1 acute interstitial pneumonia (AIP), 3 BOOP, 2 DPB, 3 sarcoidosis, 2 tuberculosis, 1 histiocytosis-X and 1 lung cancer. Most of these patients did not definitely diagnosed through their clinical evaluation including history, chest X-ray, pulmonary function tests and TBLB.

CONCLUSIONS

Open lung biopsy, is a useful method, as it is sensitive and specific in diagnosis of interstitial lung disease. It is helpful in defining the site and extent of interstitial lung disease and diagnosing rare and atypical interstitial lung disease.

Role of Helicobacter pylori infection in pathogenesis of gastric adenocarcinoma

To study the effect of Helicobacter Pylori (Hp) on the process of gastric carcinogenesis, 35 cases of chronic gastritis, 20 cases of gastric adenocarcinoma were studied by use of transmission electron microscopy, immunohistochemical and molecular biological technique. The results showed that 24 of 35 cases of chronic gastritis were positive for Hp, 11/20 cases of gastric adenocarcinoma were Hp positive. PCNA positive cell labeling index (LI) in Hp-associated chronic gastritis (LI = 20.6 +/- 4.7) was higher than that in Hp negative chronic gastritis (LI = 11.3 +/- 5.2) (P < 0.05). HSP70 expression of gastric adenocarcinoma tissues in Hp-infected patients were lower than that of non-Hp-infected gastric cancer. p53 gene mutation was found in gastric adenocarcinoma with positive Hp. It was suggested that Hp may enhance gastric cell proliferation, decrease the expression of HSP70 which induces p53 mutation.

A clinicopathological study of Alport syndrome and detection of type IV collagen chains in Alport patients

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the clinical and pathological findings of Alport syndrome (AS), detect the distribution of type IV collagen within basement membrane of patients with AS and evaluate the diagnostic value of indirect immunofluorescence (iIF) study of type IV collagen in AS.

METHODS

Fourteen patients belonging to 12 families were collected from January 1990 to June 1996. The clinical examinations include biochemical examination, audiometry and ocular examination. IIF technique was used to detect the location of chains of type IV collagen in 6 renal and 5 skin specimens from 8 Alport patients.

RESULTS

Among fourteen patients, 11 were male and 3 female (mean age 29.4 years). Microscopic hematuria was found in 13 patients, and recurrent gross hematuria in 7. All had proteinuria. Three patients presented nephrotic syndrome. Slowly progressive renal failure occurred in 10 of 11 males (11-39 years) and 1 female (40 years). Sensorineural deafness was observed in 9 patients particularly high frequency sound. Anterior lenticonus were presented in 2. Five families transmitted as X-linked dominant (XD) trait and 3 autosomal dominant, 3 autosomal recessive inheritance. In 7 renal biopsies, the findings by light microscopy mostly revealed focal and segmental sclerosis glomerulonephritis (4/7). The results of IF were negative in 4. Ultrastructural studies showed variable thickening, thinning of glomerular basement membrane (GBM) in 7 specimens with lamellation and basket wearing of GBM in 1. Using the iIF technique, the alpha 3, 4, 5 (IV) chains were observed to be absent within both GBM and EBM of 4 male XD-AS patients. Six patients were treated with hemodialysis, 2/6 with transplantation.

CONCLUSION

Alport syndrome (AS) is a heterogeneous hereditary disease characterized by progressive hematuric nephritis with or without sensorineural hearing loss and ocular defects. Ultrastructural alterations of GBM are helpful to the diagnosis of AS. IIF study suggests that type IV collagen in basement membrane of AS was abnormal and iIF study of type IV collagen chains distribution is useful for confirming the diagnosis of AS.

Herbimycin A enhances apoptotic effect of chemotherapeutic drugs on K562 cells

OBJECTIVES

To explore the anti-apoptotic mechanism and the effective apoptosis-inducing method in chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) cells.

METHODS

K562 cell line was used to observe the effect of combination of herbimycin A (HMA), a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and chemotherapeutic agents on the induction of apoptosis.

RESULTS

HMA or chemotherapeutic agents could inhibit the proliferation but not significantly induce apoptosis of K562 cells. However, HMA significantly enhanced apoptosis when combined with chemotherapeutic agents. Addition of sulfhydryl compound to the cultures to conjugate HMA completely abrogated this enhancing effect on K562 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

HMA increases the sensitivity of CML cells to chemotherapeutic agents by inactivating tyrosine kinase activity. It is promising that combination of HMA with conventional chemotherapeutic drugs may be a new strategy in the treatment of CML.

[Diagnosis and treatment of thoracic outlet syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is clinically common, but liable to be misdiagnosed. We would like to emphasize the recognition of TOS, and through thorough examination for a complete relief from indicated operation.

METHODS

13 cases receiving surgical operations in PUMC hospital from 1982 to 1996 are reported and discussed the cause of misdiagnosis, investigate the various kinds of abnormalities and compare the result of operation.

RESULTS

92% of the patients had experence of being misdiagnosed for other diseases, the history may be as long as 10 years. In the operations we found 8 kinds of anatomic abnormalities that cause the symptoms and complete relief is satisfactory.

CONCLUSIONS

We have to emphasize the recognition of TOS. The thorough physical examination is important to diagnosis. Patients with typical and apparent symptoms need an operation to relieve the thoracic outlet through the transaxillary approach.

Recent developments in DNA electrophoretic separations

DNA electrophoresis is now a fairly mature technology. Nevertheless, as we approach the 21st century, new ideas are frequently suggested that could lead to a revolution for DNA sequencing and mapping. Here, we review some of the novel concepts that have been studied since ca. 1990. Our review focuses on new separation mechanisms, new sieving matrices and recent conceptual advances.

[Subxiphoid pericardial window drainage in the management of large pericardial effusions]

OBJECTIVE

To choose a safe, effective, minimum invasive procedure for treatment of patients with a large pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 30 cases with large pericardial effusion or cardiac tamponade diagnosed by echocardiography during four years (1993-1997). The subxiphoid pericardial window drainage and pericardial tissue biopsy was performed.

RESULTS

The symptoms were improved immediately following the drainage. The drainage volume during operation was 200-2,000 ml, and postoperation was 0-2,000 ml. The drainage tube was kept in position for average of 5.6 days. With the echocardiography follow up, the pericardial effusion disappeared or remained only minimum fluid in 96.7% of the patients. The complications happened in 6 cases. The 30-days mortality was 6.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The subxiphoid pericardial window drainage procedure is the first choice for a safe, effective, minimal invasive and easy to do procedure for the patients with a large pericardial effusions or cardiac tamponade.

Cutaneous and subcutaneous granulomata formation in mice immunized and challenged with third-stage infective hookworm (Ancylostoma caninum) larvae

To determine the inflammatory and immunological mechanisms associated with live third-stage (L3) hookworm larval vaccines, mice were immunized either subcutaneously or orally with three doses of 500 L3 of Ancylostoma caninum at 2-week intervals, and then challenged percutaneously (via abdominal skin) with 500 L3. Non-immunized mice served as negative controls. Skin was excised from post-challenge mice at intervals between 6 h and 28 days, and then examined by light microscopy. In non-immunized mice the L3 exhibited no structural damage and infiltrating inflammatory cells were absent from the surrounding tissues. There were no changes in the cutaneous architecture. In contrast, skin recovered from the immunized mice was edematous and exhibited marked inflammatory changes with resultant destruction of the challenge L3. At 6 h post-challenge the L3 exhibited cuticular swelling and damage; the surrounding tissue was infiltrated by polymorphonuclear inflammatory cells. By 24 h granulomata in the dermis, subcutaneous tissues and underlying abdominal muscles were first observed surrounding dead L3. The number of granulomata peaked at 72 h, with the majority distributed in the subcutaneous tissues. Plasma cells predominated in the early granulomata, but by 3-7 days post-challenge foreign body giant cells began to appear. In some cases, intact and presumably living L3 were noted in the abdominal muscles 14-28 days post-challenge, which suggested that protection against larval challenge was not absolute. Granuloma formation appears to be a major component of the post-vaccination murine host immune response against challenge larvae. The observation generates several hypotheses to investigate the mechanisms of protection afforded by living helminth vaccines.

Oxidative stress increases A1 adenosine receptor expression by activating nuclear factor kappa B

The A1 adenosine receptor (A1AR) contributes to the cytoprotective action of adenosine under conditions known to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS). Pharmacological manipulation of A1AR expression has been shown to modulate this cytoprotective role. In this study, we provide evidence that ROS generated could increase the expression of the A1AR and thereby offset the detrimental effects of ROS. Incubation of DDT1MF-2 smooth muscle cells with ROS-generating chemotherapeutic agents, such as cisplatin (2.5 microM) or H2O2 (10 microM), elicited an increase in A1AR expression within 24 hr. The induction by H2O2 was reduced by the ROS scavenger catalase but not superoxide dismutase. Inhibition of nuclear factor kappa B (NF kappa B) by pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (200 microM), dexamethasone (100 nM), or genistein (1 microM) abrogated the cisplatin-mediated increase in A1AR. Cisplatin promoted rapid translocation of NF kappa B (but not AP-1) to the nucleus, as detected by electrophoretic mobility shift assays and by Western blotting. A putative NF kappa B sequence in the A1AR promoter effectively competed with labeled kappa B probe for binding in nuclear preparations derived from DDT1MF-2 cells. Transient transfection of DDT1MF-2 cells with the A1AR promoter coupled to firefly luciferase reporter gene led to cisplatin-inducible and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate-sensitive luciferase activity, suggesting the presence of functional NF kappa B binding site(s) in the A1AR promoter sequence. Treatment of cells with (R)-phenylisopropyladenosine (1 microM), an agonist of the A1AR, reduced cisplatin-mediated lipid peroxidation, which was reversed after blockade of the A1AR. These data suggest that ROS can increase the expression of the A1AR by activating NF kappa B regulatory site(s) on this gene and thereby enhance the cytoprotective role of adenosine.

[Polymerase chain reaction associated with dig-labelled DNA hybridization of mip gene to identify new isolated Legionella pneumophila strains]

OBJECTIVE

By testing mip gene, one highly conservative virulence gene of Legionella pneumophila (Lp), as targets of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Digoxin-labelled probe hybridization to establish a rapid, specific and sensitive gene analysis method that can identify new isolated suspected bacteria strains as Lp.

METHOD

Abstracting all the CDC reference Lp strains' and none-Lp Legionella strains' DNA, as well as the domestic isolated Lp strains' and some non-Legionella control bacteria's DNA as templates, then were processed. All the positive PCR products(if no PCR amplicons were available, the original whole DNA should be detected) were hybridized with Digoxingen-labelled mip gene probe in dot-blot procedure.

RESULT

All the tested Lp strains had positive PCR and hybridization results, at the same time, all none-Legionella bacteria and none-Lp Legionella strains got negative results. 6 of 26 isolates were identified as Lp strains by this method.

CONCLUSION

Such a Lp strain identification procedure shows high specificity and sensitivity (nearly 100%, in this study), and mean-while can be completed in a relative short time. Surely, this method can be largely available and has a potential value in diagnosis of clinical Legionellosis cases and pursuing the pathogen during Legionnaires' disease outbreaks.

Adenosine A1 receptor and bipolar affective disorder: systematic screening of the gene and association studies

In the present study we sought to identify genetic variation in the adenosine A1 receptor (A1AR) gene on chromosome 1q31-32.1, which through alteration of protein function or level of expression might contribute to the genetic predisposition to bipolar affective disorder. We performed a systematic mutation scan of the whole coding sequence as well as 5' and 3' untranslated regions by means of single-strand conformation analysis. The region upstream to the coding sequence we investigated contains two functional promoters. Screening 42 patients with bipolar affective disorder, we detected 11 DNA sequence variants (48T/A, 267 + 275C/T, 805T/G, 1777C/A, 1827C/T, 1904C/T, 2126G/T, 2294insT, 2776C/T, 2777del36, 2819T/G). Determining the frequency of these variants in 42 anonymous blood donors, we observed a non-significant (P < 0.06) trend towards an underrepresentation of the 2126T variant in patients when compared to controls. On the other hand, the 2777del36 and the 2819G variant were not found among the controls. These findings were followed up in a large independent replication sample. However, we were not able to confirm the initial findings in the second sample. Our data suggest that genetically determined variation of the A1AR and its two promoters do not play a major role in the development of bipolar affective disorder.