[Reconstruction of traumatic ear defect by retro-auricular expanded flap and cartilage graft]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the therapeutic effect of retro-auricular expanded flap and cartilage graft for reconstruction of traumatic ear defect.

METHODS

From Aug. 2008 to Aug. 2010, 10 cases of traumatic ear defects were treated with retro-auricular expanded flap and cartilage graft. The expanders (volume, 50 ml) were implanted subcutaneously at retro-auricular area on the first stage. Then the expansion began at 1 week after operation until the volume reached 60 ml. On the second stage, the ear defects were reconstructed with the expanded flaps, rib cartilage framework, as well as skin graft.

RESULTS

All the wounds healed primarily without any complication. The patients were followed up for 6 months to 2 years with satisfactory cosmetic results. Good symmetry was achieved.

CONCLUSIONS

It is an effective and reliable method to reconstruct traumatic ear defect by retro-auricular expanded flap and cartilage graft.

Transforming growth factor-β1 phage model peptides isolated from a phage display 7-mer peptide library can inhibit

BACKGROUND

Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is known to have a role in keloid formation through the activation of fibroblasts and the acceleration of collagen deposition. The objective of this current study was to isolate TGF-β1 phage model peptides from a phage display 7-mer peptide library to evaluate their therapeutic effect on inhibiting the activity of keloid fibroblasts.

METHODS

A phage display 7-mer peptide library was screened using monoclonal anti-human TGF-β1 as the target to obtain specific phages containing ectogenous model peptides similar to TGF-β1. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed to select monoclonal phages with good binding activity, which underwent DNA sequencing. MTT assay and apoptosis assessment were used to evaluate the biological effects of the phage model peptides on keloid fibroblasts. Immunofluorescence assay was employed to show the binding affinity of the model peptides on phages causing keloid fibroblasts. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis was carried out to detect the expressions of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) mRNA, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) mRNA and TGF-β receptor II (TβRII) mRNA in keloid fibroblasts.

RESULTS

Specific phages with good results of ELISA were beneficiated. Four phage model peptides were obtained. The data of MTT showed that TGF-β1 and one phage model peptide (No. 4) could promote keloid fibroblasts proliferation, however, three phage model peptides (No. 1 - 3) could inhibit keloid fibroblasts proliferation. The results of apoptosis assessment showed that the three phage model peptides could slightly induce the apoptosis in keloid fibroblasts. The data of immunofluorescence assay revealed that the model peptides on phages rather than phages could bind to keloid fibroblasts. The findings of quantitative real-time PCR analysis suggested that the expressions of NF-κB mRNA and CTGF mRNA in the three phage model peptide groups decreased, while the expression of TβRII mRNA slightly increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Three phage model peptides isolated from a phage display 7-mer peptide library can inhibit keloid fibroblasts proliferation and induce the apoptosis in keloid fibroblasts. They can inhibit the activity of keloid fibroblasts by blocking TGF-β1 binding to its receptor and then regulating the expressions of NF-κB, CTGF and TβRII.

Clinical characteristics and prognosis of diffuse proliferative lupus nephritis with thrombotic microangiopathy

We retrospectively analyzed the clinicopathologic characteristics and prognosis of 33 patients with diffuse proliferative lupus nephritis (class IV LN) complicated with thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). Eighty-one percent of patients had renal dysfunction (mean Scr 3.1 ± 2.0 mg/dl), among whom 42.4% needed acute hemodialysis. Nephrotic proteinuria, gross hematuria and hypertension were presented in 57.6%, 24.2% and 93.9% of the patients. Microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, serum anti-dsDNA and anticardiolipin antibodies were found in 60.6%, 75.8% and 33.3% of the patients. Renal biopsy showed IV-G in 75.8%, class IV with class V in 21.2%, and IV-S in 1.23% of the patients. Glomerular segmental necrosis, microthrombi, crescents and arteriolar thrombosis were found in 51.5%, 69.7%, 60.6% and 60.7% of the patients, respectively. The follow up was 1 to 101 months (median 13 months). Only 50% of patients showed response to treatment. Three patients died, 10 developed end-stage renal failure (ESRF). The 5-year patient and renal survival rate was 69.2% and 46.7%, respectively. Major risks for ESRF included: a need for acute dialysis on admission, no response to the treatment and high renal chronic index. The results showed that class IV lupus nephritis with TMA has high mortality and low renal survival.

SNP detection and haplotype analysis in partial sequence of MSTN gene in sheep

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products of the MSTN gene amplified from sixty sheep of nine Chinese indigenous sheep breeds and one imported sheep breed were sequenced to identify the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a 378-bp fragment including intron 2 and exon 3 of the MSTN gene. A total of fifteen SNPs (A1937C, T1942G, C1956T, A1972C, A1990G, A2008C, A2011G, C2019T, A2025C, A2027C, T2085G, T2173C, C2198T, C2210T and C2213T) were detected among the sixty sequenced individuals and they were all located in intron 2. Twelve haplotypes were identified from these fifteen SNPs, of which haplotype I (CGTCGCGTCCGCTTT) and VIII (ATCAAAACAATTCCC) were the two major and basic ones with frequencies of 12.25% and 77.80%, respectively. Haplotype VIII was distributed in all sheep breeds and all individuals of the meat or meat-wool type sheep breeds were homozygous with respect to this haplotype. This suggests that haplotype VIII might be related to meat production traits in sheep. Haplotype I was only distributed in the fur, lambskin type and fur-meat type sheep breeds. This suggests that haplotype I may have some relationship with fur traits in sheep.

[Arsenite removal performance by modified GAC]

Two kinds of Fe-Mn oxide impregnated GAC (FM-GAC-1, FM-GAC-2) were prepared and their arsenite removal performance were studied. The adsorption isotherm and reaction kinetic models of arsenite on the two kinds of modified GAC and influence of solution pH, temperature and co-exist anions were investigated in the study. The results showed FM-GAC-1 and FM-GAC-2 can adsorb arsenite effectively, the adsorption capacities were 32.37 mg x g(-1) and 26.67 mg x g(-1) respectively. The adsorb velocity could be predicted well by applying pseudosecond order rate equation and the chemistry reaction process was the limitation of the reaction for both modified GAC. The lower solution pH was benefit to the removal of arsenite. The adsorption capacity of FM-GAC-1 and FM-GAC-2 decreased with temperature increasing. The adsorption processes were spontaneous heat-discharge processes. Some co-exist anions can influence arsenite adsorption on modified GAC when their concentration were 200 times of arsenite. It was found that SiO3(2-), PO3(2-), NO3(-) had a significant negative influence on arsenite removal by FM-GAC-1 and SiO3(2-), CO3(2-) can markedly decrease arsenite adsorption on FM-GAC-2. As a whole, FM-GAC-1 had better arsenite removal performance than FM-GAC-2.

[Expression and function of sphingosine kinases 1 and 2 in human keloid fibroblasts]

OBJECTIVE

To study the expression and function of sphingosine kinase (SphK) 1 and SphK2 in human keloid fibroblasts.

METHODS

Specimens of keloid and surrounding normal skin were collected from 12 patients with keloid during operation. Primary fibroblasts were isolated, cultured, and randomly divided into 3 groups: normal skin group, keloid group, and keloid with transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 group cultured with TGF-beta1 for 48 h. Immunofluorescence technique was used to detect the location of SphK1 and SphK2 protein. Real-time PCR and Western blotting were used to measure the mRNA and protein expression levels of SphK1 and SphK2.

RESULTS

Sphk1 protein was localized primarily in the nuclei of the fibroblasts, and Sphk2 protein was detected both in the cytoplasm and nuclei in the 3 groups. The mRNA and protein levels of Sphk1 in the keloid group were (0.0608 +/- 0.0190) and (0.8308 +/- 0.1093) respectively, both significantly higher than those of the normal skin group [(0.0383 +/- 0.0147) and (0.6800 +/- 0.1126) respectively, both P < 0.05], but significantly lower than those of the keloid fibroblasts with TGF-beta1 group [(0.0790 +/- 0.0280), P < 0.05, and (1.4267 +/- 0.1938), P < 0.01]. There was no significant differences in the Sphk2 mRNA and protein levels among these 3 groups (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Sphk1 plays a leading role in keloid pathogenesis. The SphK1 mRNA and protein levels are increased by TGF-beta1 stimulation in keloid fibroblasts, perhaps indicating that Sphk1 is involved in TGF-beta signal transduction pathway.

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) pollutants in groundwater from coal gangue stack area: characteristics and origin

The concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the leachate from the gangue and 20 groundwater samples, which were collected from the 12th Coal Mine around gangue piles in Henan Province, China, were determined by SPE-GC-MS. The characteristics of PAHs pollutants in groundwater were investigated, and compared with the concentrations of PAHs in the leachate from different weathered gangues to discuss the pollution effects of PAHs from coal gangue on groundwater. The results showed that total concentrations of the 16 EPA preferentially controlled PAHs ranged from 146.9 ng/L to 1220.6 ng/L.The components of PAHs such as chrysene, benzo[a]anthracene, benzo[b + k]fluoranthene, indeno[1,2,3-c,d]-pyrene, and dibenz[a,h]anthracene were fairly high. The 2-4 rings PAHs such as naphthalene, phenanthrene, fluorene and chrysene were dominant in groundwater, which was similar to those of the leachate from the different weathered gangues. Therefore, it should be paid much more attention on the transport of lower ring numbered PAHs leached by rains from the coal mines after landfilling and dumping. Based on the spatial distribution of PAHs and the high concentrations of PAHs with 2-4 rings in groundwater and leaching samples, there might be other pollution sources of PAHs except for penetration from coal gangue into groundwater in the Pingdingshan coal mine area.

Association of beta-adrenoceptor single nucleotide polymorphisms with resting heart rate

The association of beta-adrenoceptor (B-AR, including three subgroups: Beta1, Beta2 and Beta3) single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) with resting heart rate (RHR) were analyzed. RHR of 107 healthy subjects in the supine were detected by computerized system for 8 minutes. Genotyping SNPs of S/G49 and R/G389 of Beta1-AR and W/R64 of Beta3-AR in these subjects were by means of PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. Genotyping SNPs of R/G16 and Q/E27 of Beta1-adrenoceptor in these subjects were by means of allele specific primer-PCR (ASP-PCR) technique. It was found that there was no significant difference among RHRs corresponding above SNPs of B-AR, but the SNP of R/G389 of Beta1-AR, in which there was significant difference among RHRs (P<0.05). Either in the female individuals or in the male, those with Beta1-AR G/G389 genotype had the highest RHR. The females with R/R389 genotype had the lowest RHR, however, the males with R/G389 genotype had the lowest RHR. The RHR was not only associated with R/G389 polymorphism of Beta1-adrenoceptor gene significantly, but also was associated with gender in Chinese.

Deficiency of Growth Hormone Receptor Does Not Affect Male Reproduction in Dwarf Chickens

Sex-linked dwarf chickens caused by the mutation of the growth hormone receptor gene are characterized by normal growth hormone (GH), very low insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) level in the blood, and reduced growth. It has been demonstrated that the sex-linked dwarfing gene has negative effects on female reproduction. In the current study, dwarf cocks and their phenotypic normal siblings were used to investigate the effects of dwarf gene on male reproduction. Dwarf cocks grew slower than the normal cocks did, and at 20 wk of age, their BW were 36.4% smaller. However, all parameters for semen quality, including volume, sperm concentration, viability, mobility, pH, and percentage of abnormal sperms, examined at 30 wk of age showed no significant difference between normal and dwarf cocks. The fertility of dwarf cocks was 95.2%, and the normal was 92.4%. The concentrations of GH and IGF-I in serum and seminal plasma were measured with RIA and ELISA, respectively. The serum GH in the dwarf cocks was significantly higher than their normal siblings (P < 0.05), whereas the serum IGF-I in the dwarf cocks was very low. However, the concentration of seminal IGF-I in dwarf cocks was similar to that of their normal siblings, indicating that IGF-I might be produced and acted independently in testis. In conclusion, the deficiency in GH receptor did not affect the male reproduction in dwarf chickens, and the fertility of dwarf cocks could be satisfactory for production when artificial insemination was adopted.

Single-nucleotide polymorphism identification in the caprine myostatin gene

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) products of MSTN gene amplified from 35 goats representing 17 Chinese indigenous goat breeds and five imported goat breeds were sequenced to identify the single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of a 379-bp fragment including part of intron 2 and exon 3 of MSTN gene. A total of eight SNPs (A1980G, G1981C, A1982G, G1984T, A2121G, T2124C, G2174A and A2246G) were identified among the sequenced goats. The SNPs found are all located in intron 2 except for A2246G, which was a synonymous mutation in exon 3. Four haplotypes were sorted from these eight SNPs, of which, haplotype I (AGAGATGA) and haplotype II (GCGTGTAA) are the two main haplotypes with the frequency of 77.8% and 14.8% respectively. The SNPs found at positions 1980, 1981, 1982, 1984 and 2121 might be linked to inheritance completely.

A study on eggshell pigmentation: biliverdin in blue-shelled chickens

Biliverdin is an important pigment in the eggshell of chickens and other avian species. Determination of the biosynthesis site for biliverdin is essential for understanding the biochemical process and genetic basis of eggshell pigmentation. Either blood or the shell gland could be the biosynthesis site of eggshell biliverdin. A segregation population with full-sib sisters genotyped Oo and oo, which laid blue-shelled eggs and light brown eggs, respectively, was constructed in a native Chinese chicken breed. Ultraviolet spectrophotometry and HPLC were used to determine the biliverdin concentration in eggshells, blood, bile, excreta, and shell gland of both groups of chickens. Biliverdin content was significantly different between egg shells of blue-shelled and brown-shelled chickens (P < 0.01). Blood and bile were tested 3 to 4 h before oviposition, and excreta was tested randomly. Results showed no significant difference in biliverdin concentration in blood, bile, and excreta between the 2 groups. In the shell gland, the biliverdin contents for the blue-shelled and brown-shelled chickens were 8.25 +/- 2.55 and 1.29 +/- 0.12 nmol/g, respectively, which showed a significant difference (P < 0.01). Our results demonstrated that blood is not the biosynthesis site of the shell biliverdin. Biliverdin is most likely synthesized in the shell gland and then deposited onto the eggshell of chickens.

Post-treatment of banknote printing works wastewater ultrafiltration concentrate

A novel process of vortex settling and stage-2 ultrafiltration (UF) with alternating feed direction was used to further concentrate the concentrate produced by a stage-1 UF employed for treatment of banknote printing works wastewater. In this post-treatment process, the final concentrate volume for incineration was reduced by 4-5 times while the permeate of the stage-2 UF could be further reused in the banknote printing operation. It was noted vortex settling facilitated settling of the printing ink and the strategy of regularly alternating feed direction in the UF resulted in a higher permeate flux compared to the corresponding flux for operation without alternating feed direction. The hydraulic retention time (HRT) of the vortex settling tank (VST) used in the pilot-scale experiment was 14 min while feed direction to the stage-2 UF was alternated once every hour. Based on the pilot-scale experimental results, a full-scale system was set up. An economic analysis showed that the novel system was a cost-effective option for post-treatment of stage-1 UF concentrate. The treatment system has been successfully implemented at several Chinese banknote printing companies.

Exact representation of crossover of transitions from first order to second order in the Potts model for rumor transmission

The L-state Potts model for rumor is the N-spin chain describing how a simple rumor transmitted by N recreant rumormongers is aggrandized. The studied rumor is represented mathematically by a simple proposition with the universal quantifier, which again is represented geometrically by a point in a proposition space. During the transmission, such a proposition is changed with the change of the rumor, which has individual number N0 at the beginning of the transmission. Correspondingly, the point expressing the proposition may start from an arbitrary site at the proposition space, and then it shifts in the space. Thus, a spin sum of the Potts model corresponds to a walk of a point in the proposition space and spin configuration's numbers is given by enumerating the corresponding walks. The concept of the lattice path in combinatorial mathematics is introduced and the exact series representation of the configuration's numbers is given. The partition function exhibits the transition of the chain and critical equivalent inverse temperature beta(c) is determined. Moreover, there is a crossover value of the individual number, N00. The model has a first-order transition when N0<N00 and a second-order one when N0>N00.

Density waves in traffic flow of two kinds of vehicles

Through the car-following model, the traffic flow of two types of vehicles (cars and trucks) on a single-lane flow is studied, in which drivers on different vehicles have different sensitivities and the safety distance is assumed to be the same for all vehicles. The linear analysis is carried out to determine the condition of critical stability. With the nonlinear analysis, it proves that the small fluctuation of the vehicle density near the critical stable state satisfies the Korteweg-deVries equation and different sensitivities affect only the soliton evolution. When the headway in the critical state is more than the safety distance, the density around the soliton peak exceeds the density of the critical stable state, which can be explained as the formation of traffic jam. Contrarily, when the headway state is less than the safety distance, drivers will increase the headway to avoid the jam. The direct approach of the soliton perturbation shows that drivers' sensitivity will increase the soliton's amplitude continuously. Moreover, the increase of the number of trucks in the traffic flow will slow down the evolution of the amplitude.

A new synthetic method for preparing indole derivatives from 2-keto glycosides

In this article, a new reaction of the addition of two molecules of aniline to 2-keto glycosides (glycoside 2-uloses, 2-ulosides) is reported. A possible pathway for the reaction is presented. This reaction provides a novel one-pot method for the synthesis of indole derivatives from sugars.

Effects of corticotrophin on pain behavior and BDNF, CRF levels in frontal cortex of rats suffering from chronic pain

AIM

To investigate the effects of corticotrophin (Cor) on corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and its functional receptor trkB in the frontal cortex of complete Freud's adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritic rats.

METHODS

The chronic pain rat model was modified and pain behaviour scores were assessed. BDNF-immunoreactivity (IR), trkB-IR, and CRF mRNA-positive neurons were measured by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization methods.

RESULTS

Compared with control rats, pain behavior scores, BDNF-IR, CRF mRNA-positive, trkB-IR, and BDNF/CRF mRNA double-labeling neurons in the contralateral frontal cortex of the arthritic rats increased significantly at 24 h after injection of CFA (P < 0.05), and these effects were decreased markedly by i.p. injection of Cor (P < 0.05). The decrease in pain behavior and BDNF-IR, CRF mRNA levels in frontal cortex of arthritic rats due to Cor were partly prevented by adrenalectomy (ADX).

CONCLUSION

The increment in BDNF and CRF levels in the contralateral frontal cortex of arthritic rats may be inhibited by corticotrophin.

Ratio of canonical and microcanonical temperatures of a vibratory antiferromagnetic ising chain

The ratio of canonical and microcanonical temperatures T(c)/T(&mgr;) of a vibratory antiferromagnetic Ising chain with N spins is given by analytical calculation. The result is T(c)/T(&mgr;)=1+O(N-1), which is consistent with the natural assumption given by Rugh.

[Immunohistochemical study of oral mucosa precancerous lesion and expression of cytokeratin of squamous cell carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE:The aim of this study was to investigate the expression and distribution of cytokeratin in oral mucosa. METHODS: Polyclonal cytokeratin antibody A(575) and ABC immunohistochemical technique were used. RESULTS: A tendency of progressive increase of cytokeratin expression was demonstrated from normal mucosa,mild moderate and severe dysplasia to squamous cell carcinoma. A notable overexpression was found in moderate,severe dysplasia and squamous cell carcinoma.The poor-differentiatin was related to the low reaction of A(575).The cases of strong reaction of A(575)were more advanced stages and metastasized to lymph nodes frquently. CONCLUSION: The overexpression of cytokeratin could play a role in potentiation the effects of genetic factors and activate oncogenes in the affected cells.The cumulative effects of the potentiation would be accelerate the progression of precancerous conditions.The reaction of A(575) was correlated with clinical stages and lymph node metastasis.

Chemistry of loteprednol etabonate and related steroids. II. Reactions at ring C and NMR structural studies of the resulting compounds

Several derivatives of lotoprednol etabonate (1), a soft corticosteroid antiinflammatory drug, are formed during the synthesis and sterilization process. Some of these contaminants of 1 result from side reactions taking place on the steroid ring C including oxidation, dehydration, chlorination and chlorohydroxylation. The products have been identified, synthesized, and fully characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy.

Critical role of TrkB and brain-derived neurotrophic factor in the differentiation and survival of retinal pigment epithelium

In the vertebrate eye, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the neural retina arise from a single layer of neuroectoderm. Factors influencing the differentiation of retinal neurons have been identified; however, little is known about molecules directing the differentiation of the RPE. Here we have found that the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays an autocrine role in the differentiation and survival of Xenopus laevis RPE. Fluorescent in situ hybridization studies showed a precise co-expression of BDNF and its receptor trkB in the retinal neuroepithelium and actively differentiating RPE; in vitro studies demonstrated survival- and differentiation-promoting effects in serum-free explants and dissociated cultures. When a dominant negative mutant of the trkB receptor was expressed in developing embryos, severe arrest of RPE differentiation was seen with persistence of nestin- and Notch-positive neuroblasts.

Developmental regulation and the role of insulin and insulin receptor in metanephrogenesis

The insulin family of peptides and their receptors influence cellular growth in very early preimplantation embryos. In this study their expression and role in renal organogenesis was investigated. By immunofluorescence microscopy and in situ hybridization, insulin receptor (IR) expression was seen in the ureteric bud branches and early nephron precursors in mouse metanephroi harvested at day 13 of gestation. The expression gradually decreased in successive stages of gestation, and it was confined mainly to renal tubules in 1-week-old mice. Similar developmental regulation of the IR and insulin was observed by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses. Addition of insulin into the culture medium at low concentrations, ranging from 40 to 400 ng/ml, induced trophic changes and increased [3H]thymidine incorporation in the embryonic renal explants, and inclusion of IR beta-subunit-specific antisense oligodeoxynucleotide caused marked dysmorphogenesis and growth retardation of the metanephroi. Specificity of the antisense effect was reflected by immunoprecipitation experiments in which translational blockade of the beta subunit of the IR was observed. RT-PCR analyses revealed that the alpha subunit of the IR was unaffected by the antisense treatment of metanephric explants. Concomitantly, de novo synthesis of morphogenetic regulatory extracellular matrix proteins, especially the proteoglycans, was decreased. Gel-shift analyses indicated a failure in the activation of c-fos promoter region binding protein(s) by insulin in the antisense oligodeoxynucleotide-treated explants. These studies suggest that insulin and its putative receptor are developmentally regulated in the murine embryonic metanephros, and they play a role in renal organogenesis, possibly by affecting other modulators of morphogenesis-i.e., extracellular matrix proteins and protooncogenes.

Influence of glucose on murine metanephric development and proteoglycans: morphologic and biochemical studies

The offspring of severe juvenile diabetics suffer from a multitude of congenital anomalies, including genito-urinary defects. Whether these defects are related to hyperglycemic states remains to be determined. In this study, the effect of glucose on metanephric development and extracellular matrix proteoglycans (PG), the regulators of morphogenesis, was investigated. Metanephric explants, harvested at Day 13 of gestation, were exposed to 30 mM of D-glucose for 1 to 7 days in an organ culture system. Light microscopy revealed a significant reduction in the size of explants and the nephron population in metanephroi exposed to glucose. A marked dysmorphogenesis of the ureteric bud branches was also observed. They were swollen and had blunted tips. The latter are the site of nascent nephron formation. Electron microscopy revealed malformation of the S-shaped body nephrons, which had poorly formed clefts and lacked cells in their distal convolutions. The precapillary stage glomeruli showed effacement of the foot processes, attenuation of the glomerular basement membrane, decreased surface microvilli, and an increased number of intercellular junctions. Immunofluorescence microscopy indicated a decreased reactivity of antibody directed against basement membrane heparan sulfate-PG. By light microscopy-autoradiography, a generalized decrease in [35S] sulfate incorporation was observed, especially at the tips of the ureteric bud branches. Electron microscopy-autoradiography revealed a significant decrease in the silver grain density (concentration of radiation) in the matrix compartment of the nephrons, i.e., cleft of the S-shaped body and glomerular basement membrane of the precapillary-stage glomeruli. Biochemical studies revealed a decrease in the incorporated radioactivity associated with the fraction of PG. The newly synthesized PG had a reduction in their molecular weight and charge-density characteristics but had an increased proportion of chondroitin sulfate. These data suggest that D-glucose induces marked dysmorphogenesis of the embryonic kidney during in vitro metanephric development and that these alterations may be related to perturbations in the de novo synthesis of PG, one of the essential morphogenetic regulators of the extracellular matrix.

D-glucose-induced dysmorphogenesis of embryonic kidney

An organ culture system was used to study the effect of D-glucose on embryonic kidneys, and to delineate the mechanism(s) relevant to their dysmorphogenesis. Metanephroi were cultured in the presence of 30 mM D-glucose. A notable reduction in the size and population of nephrons was observed. Ureteric bud branches were rudimentary and the acuteness of their tips, the site of nascent nephron formation, was lost. Metanephric mesenchyme was atrophic, had reduced cell replication, and contained numerous apoptotic cells. Competitive reverse transcriptase-PCR analyses and immunoprecipitation studies indicated a decrease in expression of heparan sulfate proteoglycan (perlecan). Status of activated protein-2 was evaluated since its binding motifs are present in the promoter region of the perlecan gene. Decreased binding activity of activated protein-2, related to its phosphorylation, was observed. D-glucose-treated explants also had reduced levels of cellular ATP. Exogenous administration of ATP restored the altered metanephric morphology and reduced [35S]sulfate-incorporated radioactivity associated with perlecan. The data suggest that D-glucose adversely affects the metanephrogenesis by perturbing various cellular phosphorylation events involved in the transcriptional and translational regulation of perlecan. Since perlecan modulates epithelial/mesenchymal interactions, its deficiency may have led to the metanephric dysmorphogenesis and consequential atrophy of the mesenchyme exhibiting accelerated apoptosis.

Effects of hepatocellular mitogens on cytokine-induced nitric oxide synthesis in human hepatocytes

The synthesis of induced nitric oxide (NO) is regulated by several cytokines, including growth factors produced following hepatic injury and inflammation. However, little information is available on the role of growth factors in regulating the inducible NO synthase in human hepatocytes. The capacity of hepatocellular mitogens (HGF, EGF, and TGF-alpha) to regulate the inducible NO synthase (iNOS) was studied in human hepatocytes incubated with inflammatory cytokines and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Furthermore, the effects of hepatic mitogens on NO-induced changes in DNA and protein synthesis was studied. It was found that NO-mediated decrease of protein and DNA synthesis were partially reversed by the mitogens. This was associated with a down-regulation in cytokine-mediated hepatocyte NO formation, iNOS mRNA expression, and NOS enzyme activity. Cytokine-induced NO formation or SNAP, an NO donor, added with cytokines increased hepatocyte chromatin condensation but no DNA fragmentation was observed. The increase in chromatin condensation was partially reversed by hepatic mitogens and corresponded with the inhibition of NO production. Thus, the hepatic mitogens, HGF, EGF, and TGF-alpha, all suppress iNOS expression and it is the suppression of iNOS that appears to be responsible for the mitogen-reduced preservation of DNA and protein synthesis and prevention of chromatin condensation.

Comparative role of phosphotyrosine kinase domains of c-ros and c-ret protooncogenes in metanephric development with respect to growth factors and matrix morphogens

Receptor-like protooncogenes, with tyrosine kinase catalytic domains, are expressed in neoplastic and fetal tissues and potentially have a role in embryonic development. Which protooncogene may have the dominant role in embryonic renal development during the "postinductive" period, i.e., Day 10 onward, was addressed in this study by utilizing an in vitro organ culture system. The role of various receptor-like protooncogenes, with the emphasis on c-ros and c-ret, was investigated by antisense-oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) gene-targeting strategies at a point in metanephric development when reciprocal-inductive interactions between the epithelium and mesenchyme have already been initiated and are rampant. Also, their relationship with other morphogens, like extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins and growth factors, was studied. Initial in situ hybridization and RT-PCR analyses revealed a similar spatiotemporal expression for both c-ros and c-ret in the embryonic kidneys. At Day 13, they were mainly expressed in the developing nephrons in the nephrogenic zone and ureteric bud branches, where the signals from the mesenchymal ligands are transduced to the epithelial cell surface receptors. Minimal expression was observed in the newborn kidneys. Inclusion of antisense ODNs, derived from the phosphotyrosine kinase domains, inhibited metanephric growth in the organ culture; the most dramatic effects were observed with the c-ret antisense ODN. The c-ret-induced dysmorphogenetic effects were characterized as a decrease in the population of nephrons, atrophy of the mesenchymal cells, and loss of acuteness of the tips of ureteric bud branches. Interestingly, the ureteric bud branches continue to grow in the atrophic mesenchyme. Both c-ros and c-ret antisense ODNs reduced the gene expression and biosynthesis of various ECM proteins. The proteoglycans, expressed at the epithelial:mesenchymal interface, were most adversely affected, especially by the c-ret antisense. The treatment of metanephric explants with c-ret did not affect the gene expression of c-ros and vice versa. The specificity of the effects of c-ret antisense was also reflected by a decrease of anti-Ret protein immunoreactivity. The studies were extended to establish a relationship between c-ret protooncogene and some of the growth factors which are known to influence renal development via their tyrosine kinase-like receptors localized in the ureteric bud branches, the site apparently where c-ret is also expressed. Among the various growth factors examined, transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-alpha) and insulin like growth factor-I (IGF-I) had the most notable trophic effects on metanephric explants and caused maximal phosphorylation of Ret protein. In addition, concurrent exposure of TGF-alpha or IGF-I and c-ret antisense ODN explants caused partial recovery from the c-ret-induced dysmorphogenetic effects in the metanephroi. The data suggest that, although a number of protooncogenes share similar catalytic domains, c-ret plays a major role during the "postinductive" period of metanephric development by perturbing the growth factor-dependent expression of ECM morphogenetic macromolecules, notably that of the proteoglycans, and also by affecting certain yet undefined growth factor-mediated phosphorylation mechanism(s) involving c-ret.

A cohort of supporting metabolic enzymes is coinduced with nitric oxide synthase in human tumor cell lines

Although nitric oxide (NO) has cytotoxic activity against certain tumor cell lines, some human tumor cell lines can themselves produce NO by expressing the inducible isoform of NO synthase (iNOS). As rates of cellular NO synthesis play a major role in determining whether NO has cytotoxic or cytoprotective effects at anatomic sites of NO production, identification of cellular processes which regulate rates of NO synthesis by iNOS is important for understanding the role of NO in tumor cell biology. This study demonstrates that argininosuccinate synthetase and GTP-cyclohydrolase-I, which catalyze rate-limiting steps in the synthesis of iNOS substrate (arginine) and cofactor (tetrahydrobiopterin), respectively, are coinduced with iNOS expression in two human tumor cell lines. These results indicate that coinduction of these supporting metabolic pathways helps to maximize cellular NO synthesis by iNOS in human tumor cells, suggesting that these pathways might be useful targets for pharmacologic intervention in NO-producing human tumor cells.

Derivatives of Dexanabinol. I. Water-soluble salts of glycinate esters

PURPOSE

Glycinate ester-type water soluble derivatives of dexanabinol (HU-211) (1) a non-psychotropic cannabinoid with potential use in the treatment of brain damage were synthesized and evaluated as prodrugs or congeners.

METHODS

Conventional procedures were used for the synthesis of the novel derivatives. Stability studies in water and blood (rat, dog, human) were performed by HPLC; NMDA receptor binding was determined by radio ligand [3H] MK-801-displacement; the neuroprotection and neurotoxicity studies were performed in cortical cell cultures.

RESULTS

Glycinate (3), dimethyl- and diethylamine (5, 6), trimethyl- and triethyl- ammonium (7, 8) acetates of 1 were synthesized. All compounds were relatively soluble and stable in water. The quaternary ammonium salt-type derivatives rapidly hydrolyzed to the parent drug in various types of blood including human. In vitro activity studies indicated that the novel derivatives possess NMDA receptor binding properties. The neuroprotecting properties manifested by some of the new derivatives were associated with very low neuronal cell toxicity and are credited to parent compound released by hydrolysis during the experiments rather than to intrinsic activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Compounds 7 and 8 are promising water-soluble pro-drug candidates for 1; the glycinate ester 3 might be used as an active analog.

Cloning of mouse c-ros renal cDNA, its role in development and relationship to extracellular matrix glycoproteins

Renal organogenesis ensues following reciprocal interactions between the uninduced metanephric mesenchyme and the ureteric bud. Conceivably, the presence of ligands or growth factors on a given cell type, and expression of receptors, including receptor proto-oncogenes, on the other cell type of different lineage would facilitate such epithelial-mesenchymal interactions. During these interactions, other macromolecules, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, present at the epithelial-mesenchymal surface, also play a role in the kidney morphogenesis. In this study the proto-oncogene, c-ros, was cloned and sequenced; its role in the metanephric development was examined, and correlated with the changes in the expression of ECM proteins. The mouse c-ros renal cDNA, belonging to phosphotyrosine kinase (PTK) receptor family, had a translation product of 2340 amino acids. The extracellular domain had 32 N-linked glycosylation sites and 30 cysteine residues. The transmembrane segment had a hydrophobicity approaching approximately 3.5. Multiple phosphorylation sites, typical of a PTK catalytic unit, were present in the cytoplasmic domain. The 3' noncoding region did not contain any A(U)nA mRNA instability motifs. The c-ros mRNA was highly expressed on the ureteric bud branches and their tips and on the developing glomeruli. Competitive RT-PCR analyses revealed the c-ros expression was the highest at 13th day of gestation, and it declined to very low levels during the neonatal period. Exposure of metanephric kidneys to c-ros antisense-oligonucleotide, derived from the PTK domain, caused dysmorphogenesis of the kidney and loss of c-ros expression on the ureteric bud branches. Concomitant with the reduced c-ros gene expression, a decreased expression of ECM glycoproteins, in particular the proteoglycans, was observed. These findings suggest that the c-ros plays a role in the metanephric development, and its effects may be modulated by the ECM macromolecules present at the epithelial-mesenchymal interface.

Further characterization and comparison of inducible nitric oxide synthase in mouse, rat, and human hepatocytes

Marked differences in induced nitric oxide (NO) synthesis occur between species. We have previously shown that both human and rat hepatocytes express an inducible NO synthase in response to cytokines and lipopolysaccharide. In this study, we compare the expression and regulation of cytokine-induced NO synthase in hepatocytes isolated from three species, human, rat, and mouse. On stimulation with tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), interferon gamma (IFN gamma), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), it was found that hepatocytes from all three species produce high levels of NO with levels of production exhibiting the following hierarchy: rat hepatocytes > mouse hepatocytes > human hepatocytes. Whereas rat and mouse hepatocytes express inducible NO synthase messenger RNA (mRNA) in response to TNF alpha, IL-1 beta, or IFN gamma as a single stimulus, human hepatocytes respond to LPS alone. Inhibition of NO generation through transforming growth factor (TGF-beta 1) was seen in mouse (77% +/- 5.9) and rat hepatocytes (17% +/- 2.6) whereas only about 10% was seen in human hepatocytes. Epidermal growth factor (EGF) was shown to inhibit NO synthesis in human and mouse hepatocytes but not rat. A marked NO-dependent inhibition of total protein synthesis was seen in rat and human hepatocytes, whereas mouse hepatocytes showed almost no inhibition in protein synthesis when stimulated. NO-dependent cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) release was found in all three species.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Trophic effect of insulin-like growth factor-I on metanephric development: relationship to proteoglycans

Many hormones/factors influence the total body growth and development during embryonic life, and very few studies have been carried out to ascertain their effects on the individual organ system. In this study, the effect of exogenous insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) on embryonic kidneys was investigated, and correlated with phenotypic and gene expression and synthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteoglycans (PGs). Antisense experiments were carried out to elucidate the role of endogenous (IGF-I in metanephric development. Mouse metanephroi, harvested at 13th day of gestation, were exposed to IGF-I (100 ng/ml) in an organ culture for 7 days. An enlargement of the metanephroi with accentuation of its lobules, and increase in the nephron population and [3H]thymidine incorporation was observed. Immunofluorescence studies and Southern blot analysis of polymerase chain reaction products indicated augmented expression of the ECM PGs. A heavy concentration of [35S]sulfate-associated radioactivity over the tips of ureteric bud branches and ECM components of maturing glomeruli was seen. Maximal effect of radioincorporation was observed on day-4 of the culture, the period when the concentration of endogenous IGF-I is the highest. PGs synthesized had elevated proportions of chondroitin sulfate vs heparan sulfate and of free chains, and reduced charge-density characteristics. Immunoprecipitation studies of [35S]methionine-labeled glycoproteins revealed an increased synthesis of core-peptide of the PGs. IGF-I antisense oligonucleotide caused retardation in the growth of the kidneys along with the decrease in de novo synthesis of PGs. These findings indicate that IGF-I, a polypeptide essential to the renal growth and development, has a trophic effect on the embryonic kidney during the postinductive period of metanephric development, and the observed response has a temporal relationship with the increased synthesis of the PGs.

Nitric oxide-mediated antiplasmodial activity in human and murine hepatocytes induced by gamma interferon and the parasite itself: enhancement by exogenous tetrahydrobiopterin

Expression of inducible nitric oxide (NO) synthase has been shown to inhibit the development of several pathogens, including fungi, bacteria, parasites, and viruses. However, there is still controversy as to whether this effector mechanism can inhibit the development of human pathogens. We now report that gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) induces the elimination of Plasmodium falciparum-infected primary human hepatocytes from cultures and that the antimalarial activity is dependent on NO. Infection with the parasite alone in the absence of added IFN-gamma caused a 10-fold increase in NO formation. Both spontaneous inhibition and IFN-gamma-induced inhibition of Plasmodium yoelii-infected murine hepatocytes were increased with the addition of the NO synthase cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin, or sepiapterin, which is converted to tetrahydrobiopterin. These results indicate that under in vitro conditions the parasite itself provides a signal that triggers induction of the NO pathway in human and murine hepatocytes and that NO formation in infected hepatocytes is limited by tetrahydrobiopterin availability.

Hepatocyte inducible nitric oxide synthesis is influenced in vitro by cell density

Hepatocyte plating density is known to affect cell function. Human and rat hepatocytes have been shown to express the inducible nitric oxide synthase (INOS) in response to cytokines plus lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The following studies were performed to determine the effects of hepatocyte plating density on the regulation of INOS. Rat hepatocytes were plated at densities from 10(4) to 20 x 10(4) hepatocytes/cm2 and stimulated with a combination of LPS, interferon-gamma, interleukin-1, and tumor necrosis factor. We found that NO2- plus NO3- released from stimulated hepatocytes declines with increasing hepatocyte density. Similar effects were seen for 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate release into supernatants and in the amount of nonheme iron-nitrosyl signals measured by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. Limitations of substrate (L-arginine) and 5,6,7,8-tetrahydrobiopterin were excluded as cause of the reduced nitric oxide generation at higher densities. Although mRNA levels for INOS were not influenced when measured at 24 h, there was a marked reduction in INOS enzyme activity and INOS protein detectable by Western blotting at higher cell density. Total protein synthesis decreased as hepatocyte density increased in both nonstimulated and stimulated hepatocytes at higher cell densities. These data suggest that reduced INOS translation may account for the density-dependent reduction in INOS activity in cultured hepatocytes. The importance of this phenomenon remains to be determined in vivo but has important implications for the in vitro study of INOS expression.

Proinflammatory cytokines and endotoxin stimulate ICAM-1 gene expression and secretion by normal human hepatocytes

Hepatocytes in normal tissues express low or undetectable levels of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), as detected by immunohistochemistry. Up-regulation of ICAM-1 expression on these cells has been reported in inflammatory liver disease (hepatitis B virus infection, autoimmune liver disorders and liver allograft rejection), and the molecule has been implicated in the recruitment, retention and activation of inflammatory cells. There is, however, little information concerning the regulation of hepatocyte expression of ICAM-1. We show here, for the first time, the induction (within 30 min) of ICAM-1 gene expression in cultured normal human hepatocytes stimulated with interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) or endotoxin. IFN-gamma was the most potent single inducer (up to fourfold at 6 hr), while further induction of ICAM-1 mRNA was achieved with cytokine combinations. Maximal mRNA expression was achieved within 10 hr. ICAM-1 could be detected readily by immunocytochemical staining on the hepatocyte surface by 12 hr, and by enzyme immunoassay in the culture medium by 24 hr. The data present clear evidence that cytokines, which have been implicated previously in inflammatory liver diseases, can up-regulate directly both ICAM-1 gene expression and protein secretion/shedding by human hepatocytes.

Differential growth factor-induced modulation of proteoglycans synthesized by normal human renal versus cyst-derived cells

In polycystic kidney disease (PKD), there is an insiduous enlargement of the kidneys and dilation of the renal tubules associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) alterations. The latter include thickening of tubular basement membrane and decreased synthesis of sulfated proteoglycan (PG). Because PKD is believed to be a disorder of cell growth and deranged ECM metabolism, it is conceivable that the formation of cystic tubules may be modulated by certain growth factors (GF) that influence the synthesis of ECM glycoproteins. In this study, the effect of various GF, i.e., epidermal, hepatocyte (HGF) and transforming (TGF), and triiodothyronine on the PG synthesized by normal human kidney (NK) epithelial cells and cells derived from cysts of patients with autosomal dominant PKD (ADPKD) was assessed. (35S) sulfate incorporation studies revealed that, among various GF, HGF and TGF-beta 1 had the maximal stimulatory effect on the synthesis of PG extracted from ADPKD cells. A minimal increase in the PG synthesis was observed in NK cells; however, PG synthesized under the influence of HGF or TGF-beta 1 were of relatively higher molecular weight, with a shift of K(av) from 0.28 to 0.12, as ascertained by Sepharose-6B chromatography. PG synthesized by ADPKD cells had a K(av) = 0.18, and it did not change with the GF treatment. The charge-density characteristics of PG of ADPKD cells were relatively lower than those of NK cells, and they were unaffected by HGF or TGF-beta 1 treatment. Interestingly, both the HGF and TGF-beta 1 significantly affected posttranslational modifications of PG.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Coinduction of nitric oxide synthase and argininosuccinate synthetase in a murine macrophage cell line. Implications for regulation of nitric oxide production

In macrophages and other cell types, bacterial lipopolysaccharide and certain cytokines stimulate nitric oxide (NO) production via expression of the inducible isoform of nitric oxide synthase (NOS). Citrulline, which is the coproduct of NOS-catalyzed metabolism of arginine, can be recycled to arginine by the action of argininosuccinate synthetase and argininosuccinate lyase, which are present at high levels in hepatocytes and renal tubular cells but normally at very low levels in other cell types such as macrophages. The present study demonstrates that lipopolysaccharide and interferon-gamma, which induce NOS in the murine macrophage cell line RAW 264.7, also coinduce activity and mRNA for argininosuccinate synthetase, which is limiting for arginine synthesis. Argininosuccinate lyase activity and mRNA abundance are unaffected. Induction of argininosuccinate synthetase is not blocked by NG-monomethyl-L-arginine, a potent inhibitor of NOS, indicating that argininosuccinate synthetase induction is not the consequence of depleting cellular arginine levels by NOS. Because plasma levels of arginine are limiting for NO synthesis, enhanced cellular capacity to regenerate arginine from citrulline could play a significant role in regulating NO production, especially under conditions where the inducible isoform of NOS is expressed.

Influence of hypophysectomy on renal proteoglycans and their modulation by insulin-like growth factor-I and its receptor

Hypophysectomy leads to growth retardation of the animals, which is believed to be related to the deficiency of certain growth factors influencing the metabolism and synthesis of glycoproteins. Conceivably, the extracellular matrix proteins (ECM) are also affected, in particular the sulfated proteoglycans (PGs). In this study, we investigated the status of the ECM proteins and sulfated PGs, and the expression and de novo synthesis of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) receptor (IGF-IR) in hypophysectomized (Hx) rats. The studies were extended to ascertain the effect of IGF-I on the de novo synthesis of glomerular ECM glycoproteins in Hx rats. An organ perfusion system was used in which isolated rat kidneys were radiolabeled with either [35S]sulfate or [35S]methionine, after which IGF-IR and ECM macromolecules were isolated and characterized by biochemical and tissue autoradiographic procedures. Hypophysectomy resulted in a fall in IGF-I levels in serum and isolated renal glomeruli. Reduced synthesis of ECM proteins, i.e. type IV collagen, laminin, and sulfated PGs, and reduced synthesis and mRNA expression of IGF-IR were observed in the glomeruli of the Hx rats. Tissue autoradiographic studies revealed a reduced grain density (concentration of radiation) over various cell types of the glomerulus. After inclusion of IGF-I in the perfusion medium not only was synthesis restored to normal in Hx rats, but it far exceeded the control basal values in the intact animals. Under the influence of IGF-I, the magnitude of increased synthesis of the ECM proteins, in particular the sulfated PGs, was highly accentuated in the kidneys of the Hx group compared to the controls. Also, a remarkably increased [35S]sulfate incorporation was observed in the glomerular mesangial cells. The analysis of IGF-IR by specific binding studies revealed a decreased concentration of the receptors, but an increased IGF-I-binding affinity, the latter of which probably contributed to the IGF-I-induced accentuated synthesis of renal glomerular PGs in the Hx group.

Distribution and relevance of insulin-like growth factor-I receptor in metanephric development

During embryogenesis, various ligand-receptor interactions take place to modulate the development and growth of various mammalian organs. During these interactions, a critical concentration of a given receptor is needed to elicit a ligand-induced biologic response at a defined gestational stage of the fetus. In this study, the distribution and the relevance of insulin-like growth factor-I receptor (IGF-IR) in metanephric development was investigated. Kidneys were harvested from mouse embryos at days 13 to 19 of fetal gestation, and maintained in a metanephric culture system. Immunofluorescence studies, using anti-IGF-IR, revealed a high expression of IGF-IR at day 13, which declined during the later stages of gestation through neonatal life. To study the relevance of IGF-IR expression in metanephric development, antisense-oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) experiments were carried out. Antisense-ODN 43 mer probes were synthesized utilizing rat IGF-IR cDNA selected nucleotide sequences which are highly conserved in other mammalian species. Southern blot analyses of various restriction fragments of the rat and mice genomic DNA yielded similar bands when hybridized with the antisense-ODN or rat IGF-IR cDNA, suggesting a high degree of homology in the region of the gene selected for the synthesis of antisense-ODN. Also, the antisense-ODN hybridized with the appropriate murine fetal kidney mRNA species, as ascertained by S1 nuclease protection assay. Inclusion of antisense-ODN in the culture medium resulted in an inhibition of the growth of the kidney, reduction in the population of the nephrons and disorganization of the ureteric bud branches.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Cloning of cDNA for the alpha subunit of mouse insulin-like growth factor I receptor and the role of the receptor in metanephric development

Various growth factors influence mammalian development by binding to specific cell surface receptors. These interactions are followed by a series of intracellular transductional events leading to a wide variety of biological effects. To establish the role of insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGF-IR) in renal development, cDNA for the alpha subunit of the mouse IGF-IR was isolated, characterized, and used in expression studies and antisense experiments in a metanephric organ culture system. A 989-bp insert, encoding the signal peptide and 299 amino acids, isolated from a newborn mouse kidney cDNA library had 99% and 91% homology with the nucleotide sequences encoding the rat and the human IGF-IR, respectively. An approximately 11-kb message was readily detected by Northern blot analysis of RNA from the developing kidney at day 13 of gestation, and it declined during the subsequent embryonal and neonatal periods. In situ hybridization revealed high levels of message over the ureteric bud and its branches. A lower level of message was seen in the neonatal kidney, confined mainly to the tubules. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotide-treated metanephric kidneys were reduced in size and had a decreased population of nephrons with marked disorganization of ureteric bud branches. Immunofluorescence studies indicated an arrest of IGF-IR translation after antisense exposure. Immunoprecipitation studies showed a marked decrease in the biosynthesis of various extracellular matrix proteins that serve as regulators of morphogenesis. These studies suggest that the nucleotide sequence encoding the alpha subunit of mouse IGF-IR is highly conserved and that the receptor might play an essential role in the organogenesis of the kidney.

Mannose-induced dysmorphogenesis of metanephric kidney. Role of proteoglycans and adenosine triphosphate

Because various fetal anomalies are seen in diabetic offspring, we examined the effects of sugars on proteoglycans (PGs): extracellular matrix (ECM) macromolecules modulating morphogenesis. 13-d-old mouse metanephric kidney explants were exposed to mannose for 7 d and labeled with [35S]sulfate, [35S]-methionine, or [3H]thymidine. Mannose exposure caused reduction in kidney size and disorganization of ureteric bud branches with inhibition of glomerulogenesis. Tissue autoradiographic and immunofluorescence studies indicated decreased expression of sulfated PGs in ECMs. Helix pomatia lectin binding to D-GalNAc residues of glomerular epithelial cells was also reduced. Biochemical studies revealed decreased synthesis of sulfated PGs. PGs were of lower molecular weight with reduced charge density and increased chondroitin/heparan sulfate ratio. Immunoprecipitation of [35S]methionine-labeled proteins confirmed the reduction of PG core peptides. Intracellular ATP levels were reduced. The addition of 0.1 mM ATP to culture media restored kidney size, the population of glomeruli, and the synthesis and characteristics of PGs to almost normal, with no detectable effect on the replication of cells as determined by [3H]thymidine incorporation. The effect of ATP could be partially blocked by the P2y-purinoreceptor, i.e., reactive blue-2. Data suggest that mannose causes energy depletion by cellular ATP consumption and thus selectively alters the synthesis of heavily glycosylated proteins with rapid turnover, such as PGs, resulting in renal dysmorphogenesis.

Altered synthesis of proteoglycans by cyst-derived cells from autosomal-dominant polycystic kidneys

Normal human renal epithelial cells (NK) and cells from cysts of autosomal-dominant polycystic kidneys (ADPKD) were radiolabeled with [35S]sulfate. A two- to three-fold decrease in the radioactivity incorporated into the proteoglycan (PG) fraction, as ascertained by tissue autoradiography and biochemical techniques, was observed in the ADPKD group. In subconfluent NK cells, PGs eluted as two peaks with different proportions of chondroitin sulfate (CS) and heparan sulfate (HS) in the cellular and media fractions. In the confluent stage, only a single major peak in the media and matrix fractions was seen and had variable proportions of CS and HS. In subconfluent ADPKD monolayers, cellular PGs eluted as two peaks, with the major peak of higher molecular weight compared with NK cells. In confluent stage, there was a single PG peak of a relatively higher molecular weight, with a variable increase in the proportions of CS vs. HS and lower charge-density characteristics. These findings indicate that size and species of PGs vary during subconfluent and confluent stages of culture and elucidate a defect in the biosynthesis of PGs in human ADPKD cells.

Altered synthesis and intracellular transport of proteoglycans by cyst-derived cells from human polycystic kidneys

Employing in vitro pulse-chase techniques, we investigated the de novo synthesis and the kinetics of intracellular transport and extracellular matrix incorporation of proteoglycans (PG) by normal human renal epithelial cell and by epithelial cells isolated from cysts of autosomal dominant kidneys (ADPKD). Cell monolayers were pulsed either with (3H)leucine for 15 min and chased for seven intervals between 15 and 270 min or with (35S)sulfate for 150 min and chased for a single interval of 120 min. Total proteins and PG were isolated from cell, media, and matrix fractions and characterized by Sepharose CL-6B and DEAE-Sephacel chromatographies. ADPKD and NK cells synthesized comparable amounts of total proteins; however, the de novo synthesis of PG by ADPKD cells was significantly reduced. ADPKD versus NK cells exhibited a substantial delay in the cellular transport and extracellular release of de novo synthesized PG, indicating an impairment at the level of the Golgi complex and/or secretory vacuoles. PG synthesized by ADPKD versus NK cells had decreased charge density characteristics, probably due to a posttranslational defect in the sulfation of the PG glycosaminoglycan chains. ADPKD versus NK cells synthesized PG of higher molecular weight and had an increased proportion of chondroitin sulfate PG versus heparan sulfate PG. Collectively, these findings suggest a defect in the synthesis and intracellular transport of sulfated PG in human ADPKD cells.

Lipophilic N-acylpyrazinamide derivatives: synthesis, physicochemical characterization, liposome incorporation, and in vitro activity against Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare

N-acetyl-(2), N-caproyl-(3), N-capryl-(4) and N-palmitoyl-pyrazinamide (5) were synthesized by reacting pyrazinamide (1) with acetic anhydride to prepare (2), or by reacting (1) in chloroform with the corresponding acid chlorides to prepare (3-5). Products were identified by high resolution mass spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and 1H NMR. Melting points, enthalpies of fusion, solubility and octanol-water partition coefficients were determined. Hydrolysis of (2) indicated a pseudo first-order, pH-dependent degradation reaction. Apparent half life times of degradation ranged from 74.2 hours at pH 3 to 5.4 hours at pH 7.34. Derivative (5) was incorporated in liposomes consisting of soy phosphatidylcholine and dipalmitoylphosphatidylglycerol (7:3 molar ratio). The in vitro susceptibility of Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare (MAI) to the liposomal compound containing (5) was tested. MAI was susceptible to (5) at concentrations of 12.5-25 micrograms/ml, although MAI is not susceptible to the parent drug (1). Thus, a new class of antimycobacterial agents with physicochemical properties suitable for stable incorporation within liposomes and high antibiotic efficacy against MAI is presented.

Effect of puromycin on metanephric differentiation: morphological, autoradiographic and biochemical studies

Effect of aminonucleoside of puromycin (PAN) on metanephric development and proteoglycans (PGs) was investigated. Murine metanephric tissues, obtained on the thirteenth day of gestation, were exposed to PAN in a culture medium for one to seven days and processed for morphological, histochemical and immunofluorescent studies. For tissue autoradiographic and biochemical studies, kidneys were labelled with a precursor product of PGs, that is, [35S]-sulfate. A generalized decrease in the glomerular population along with swelling and deformation in the ureteric bud branches was observed. These changes were accompanied with a diminution in the total incorporated radioactivity and a reduction in the autoradiographic grains, especially over the tips of ureteric bud branches. Sepharose CL-4B chromatography revealed a major high molecular weight PG (Mr greater than 2.5 x 10(6], and a relative increase in the chondroitinase-ABC sensitive PGs. The media PGs were of relatively smaller size. Immunoprecipitation experiments with [35S]-methionine-labeled tissues and immunofluorescent studies revealed a significant decrease of PGs in metanephric tissues, while type IV collagen and laminin were relatively unaffected. Significant glomerular changes included failure in differentiation of the visceral epithelial foot processes, formation of villi and in maturation of glomerular basement membrane. The latter was seen as fragments of extracellular matrices interspersed among undifferentiated podocytes and had reduced staining with ruthenium red--a dye marker for the PGs. This deficiency of PGs was confirmed by electron microscopic autoradiography, where a reduction in the number of silver grains was observed. The fact that the PAN-induced cellular and extracellular alterations were associated with perturbances in biosynthesis of PGs, suggests that the morphogenetic regulators, that is, PGs play a vital role in various differentiation processes involved during metanephric development.

[Comparison of three kinds of diagnostic criteria for neurosis]

In order to compare utilizable value of three kinds of neurotic criteria, we made of diagnosis study of 139 neurotics by criteria of neurotic epidemiological investigation. The diagnostic criteria of Chinese expert Xu Youxin' for several types of neurosis and diagnosis criteria of the Chinese medical association for neurosis respectively. The result showed that consistent rate of diagnosis used three kinds of diagnostic criteria was 73.38 per cent. It suggested that criteria studied was acceptive, especially for neurosis diagnosis of the Chinese medical association. A further study is needed which is useful to improve its sensitivity and specifity for diagnosis of neurosis.