Radical scavenging glycoprotein inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 and thromboxane A2 synthase from aloe vera gel

An active glycoprotein fraction containing 58 % protein was isolated from Aloe vera gel by precipitation with 55 % ammonium sulfate followed by gel permeation using DEAE-Sephacel A-25, Sepharose 6B and Sephadex G-50 columns in a yield of 3 x 10 -3 %. The glycoprotein fraction showed a single band corresponding to a subunit of verectin at the same position when stained with both Coomassie brilliant blue and periodic acid-Schiff reagents on 18 % SDS-PAGE. The molecular weight (14 kDa) was confirmed by Sephadex G-50 column chromatography. The glycoprotein fraction showed a radical scavenging activity against superoxide anion generated by the xanthine-xanthine oxidase system as well as inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 and reduction of thromboxane A 2 synthase level in vitro.

Antioxidant, free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory effects of aloesin derivatives in Aloe vera

Antioxidant components in Aloe vera were examined for lipid peroxidation using rat liver microsomal and mitochondrial enzymes. Among the aloesin derivatives examined, isorabaichromone showed a potent antioxidative activity. The DPPH radical and superoxide anion scavenging activities were determined. As one of the most potent components, isorabaichromone together with feruloylaloesin and p-coumaroylaloesin showed potent DPPH radical and superoxide anion scavenging activities. Electron spin resonance (ESR) using the spin trapping method suggested that the potent superoxide anion scavenging activity of isorabaichromone may have been due to its caffeoyl group. As A. vera has long been used to promote wound healing, the inhibitory effects of aloesin derivatives for cyclooxygenase (Cox)-2 and thromboxane (Tx) A 2 synthase were examined and the participation of p-coumaroyl and feruloyl ester groups in the aloesin skeleton was demonstrated. These findings may explain, at least in part, the wound healing effects of A.vera. Abbreviations. ADP:adenosine diphosphate ASA:ascorbic acid BHT:butylated hydroxytoluene BSA:bovine serum albumin DMPO:5,5-dimethyl-1-pyrroline N-oxide DPPH:1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl EDTA:edetic acid HEPES: N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-piperazine- N-2'-ethane-sulfonic acid NADH:reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide NADPH:reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate NBT:nitroblue tetrazolium Pg:prostaglandin SOD:superoxide dismutase TBA:thiobarbituric acid TCA:trichloroacetic acid XOD:xanthine oxidase

Lambda response by orientation of striped patterns

A lambda response is an averaged occipital EEG potential associated with the offsets of saccadic eye movements. In the present experiment, two participants were asked to make horizontal saccades across horizontal or vertical white-black stripes. Analysis of orientations of striped patterns showed horizontal saccades across vertical stripes produced larger amplitudes of the lambda response than did horizontal saccades across horizontal stripes. Therefore, when the lambda response is used as the index of mental workload, it is necessary to take notice of the orientation of stimulus pattern.

Expression of Sprouty genes 1, 2 and 4 during mouse organogenesis

We demonstrate that Sprouty genes 1, 2 and 4 are expressed in several developing organs of the craniofacial area and trunk, including the brain, cochlea, nasal organs, teeth, salivary gland, lungs, digestive tract, kidneys and limb buds. In organs such as the semicircular canal, Rathke's pouch, nasal organs, the follicle of vibrissae and teeth, Sprouty1 and Sprouty2 are expressed in the epithelium and Sprouty4 in the mesenchyme or neuronal tissue, while in the lung Sprouties1, 2 and 4 are all expressed mainly in the epithelial tissue. In the kidney, Sprouty1 is prominent in the ureteric bud whereas Sprouty2 and 4 are expressed in both the ureteric bud and the kidney mesenchyme and glomeruli deriving from it. The expression profiles suggest roles for these Sprouties in the epithelial-mesenchymal interactions that govern organogenesis.

Stabilizing and solubilizing effects of sulfobutyl ether beta-cyclodextrin on prostaglandin E1 analogue

PURPOSE

Parent cyclodextrins are known to accelerate the degradations such as dehydration and isomerization of E-type prostaglandins in neutral and alkaline solutions. The objective of this study was to attempt the stabilization and solubilization of E1-type prostaglandin analogue in aqueous solution by biocompatible cyclodextrin derivatives.

METHODS

The interaction of an E1-type prostaglandin, methyl 7-[(1R,2R,3R)-3-hydroxy-2-[(E)-(3S)-3-hydroxy-4-(m-methoxymethylphenyl)1-butenyl]-5-oxocyclopentyl]-5-thiaheptanoate (MEester) with cyclodextrins (CyDs) was studied by spectroscopies and the solubility method. The degradation of MEester was monitored by high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopic studies indicated that MEester forms 1:1 inclusion complexes with alpha-, beta-, and gamma-CyDs in solutions, where alpha-CyD interacts with the a-side chain containing methyl ester moiety of the drug, whereas beta- and gamma-CyDs preferentially include around the five-membered ring and both side chains of the drug. Parent alpha-CyD and hydrophilic derivatives, such as 2-hydoxypropyl-alpha- and -beta-CyDs, sulfobutyl ether beta-CyD (SBE-beta-CyD) and maltosyl beta-CyD showed higher solubilizing abilities against MEester over parent beta- and gamma-CyDs. SBE-beta-CyD and 2,6-dimethyl-beta-CyD (DM-beta-CyD) significantly decelerated the degradation of MEester, particularly the base-catalyzed dehydration, in neutral and alkaline solutions, whereas other CyDs accelerated the degradation. The acid-catalyzed degradation of MEester (pH < 3) was decelerated by the addition of CyDs, especially alpha-CyD.

CONCLUSIONS

SBE-beta-CyD with low hemolytic activity and low toxicity is useful as a pharmaceutical carrier for the preparation of injectable MEester, because of its higher stabilizing and solubilizing effects on MEester. Furthermore, SBE-beta-CyD can be useful as a stabilizing agent for drugs, that are subject to base-catalyzed degradations, probably because of the electric repulsion between anionic charges of the sulfobutyl moiety and catalytic anionic species such as hydroxide ion.

[Clinical effectiveness of intra-arterial chemotherapy combined with degradable starch microspheres (DSM) for liver metastases and prediction of effectiveness by diagnostic imaging]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of intra-arterial chemotherapy combined with degradable starch microspheres (DSM) for liver metastases and the possibility of predicting the effectiveness of the chemotherapy by pretreatment diagnostic imaging. The subjects were 67 patients with metastatic liver cancer, treated with Seldinger method via the left brachial artery, and tumor selective hepatic injection using a micro-catheter. The early response rate was 38.7% for colorectal cancer, 42.8% for gastric cancer, 16.7% for bile tract cancer and 80% for uterine cancer. The relationship between effectiveness and the tumor occupation rate in the liver estimated from pretreatment CT images was not significant, but the degree of tumor stain in the early phase of contrast enhancement CT correlated well with early responsiveness of the liver metastases for this treatment. This suggests the possibility of pretreatment prediction of the effectiveness of intra-arterial chemotherapy combined with DSM for metastatic liver tumors.

Simultaneous determination of glycyrrhizin, glycyrrhetic acid and glycyrrhetic acid mono-glucuronide in Shakuyaku-kanzo-to incubated with rat feces by semi-micro high-performance liquid chromatography

A method for semi-micro high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) has been established for the simultaneous determination of glycyrrhizin (GL), glycyrrhetic acid (GA) and glycyrrhetic acid mono-glucuronide (GAMG) in incubation mixtures of rat feces with Shakuyaku-kanzo-to decoction (combination of licorice root and peony root). The analysis could be accomplished within 20 min with a TSKgel ODS-80TsQA (150 x 2.0 mm i.d.) column by linear gradient elution using a mobile phase containing aqueous phosphoric acid and acetonitrile at a flow rate of 0.2 ml x min(-1), a thermostatic oven at 25 degrees C, and detection at 254 nm. The detection limits of these compounds were 0.1-0.85 pmol per injection (5 microl). The concentrations of GL and its metabolites in the incubation mixture after continuous consumption of Shakuyaku-kanzo-to were significantly different compared with those of untreated control. GL-hydrolysis of rat feces was enhanced by pre-consumption of Shakuyaku-kanzo-to.

Biodisposition of FITC-labeled aloemannan in mice

Biodisposition of FITC-labeled aloemannan (F-AM) with the homogenate from some organs in mice was demonstrated. F-AM was metabolized only by the mucosa from the large intestine into smaller molecules that were effectively absorbed in mice. The homogenate from the other tissues did not affect the metabolism of F-AM. The degraded product (1) of F-AM after incubation with 10% feces homogenate for 24 h was chromatographed on a highly porous polymer and a Sephadex LH-20 column to provide an FITC-degraded fraction (2), which was shown to have a molecular weight of 800 D on Sephadex G-25 gel permeation. Metabolite 2 was examined by physicochemical methods and shown to be a mixture of FITC-hexose and -2 hexose on FAB-MS. An FITC-degraded fraction (3) with a molecular weight of 3 KD was obtained by 6-h incubation with 10% feces homogenate on Sephadex G-25 column chromatography and was shown to be a mixture of FITC-9 and 12 x hexose on TOF-MS.

The (3R,9R)-3-hydroxy-7,8-dihydro-beta-ionol disaccharide glycoside is an aroma precursor in tea leaves

The disaccharide glycoside, (3R,9R)-3-hydroxy-7,8-dihydro-beta-ionyl 6-O-beta-D-apiofuranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside was isolated as an aroma precursor from the leaves of Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv. Yabukita. Its stereochemistry was elucidated on the basis of spectral data and chemical synthesis.

Eye fixation related potentials in a proof reading task

The eye fixation related potential (EFRP) associated with the occurrence of fixation pauses can be obtained by averaging EEGs at termination of saccades. EFRP is a kind of ERP measurable at the eye movement situation. Variations of EFRP were examined during a proof reading task for a long time. Two paragraphs of sentences were presented on the left and the right sides of a CRT. The paragraph on one side had some irrelevant words. Ten subjects were asked to detect the irrelevant words. The task started at 09.20 h and finished at 16.00 h and consisted of five blocks. The duration of each block was 1-h task and 10-min rest including a lunch (70 min). EEG and EOG were recorded during the task. EEGs were averaged at termination of saccades to obtain EFRP. EFRP showed little changes during the morning blocks. However, the mean amplitude between 100 and 200 ms of the positive component in the last two blocks decreased significantly compared with other blocks. The error rate, the performance and the score of fatigue increased at the end of the task. EFRP would reflect decline of mental concentration (i.e. carelessness) caused by visual fatigue.

The pointedness effect on representational momentum

An observer's memory for the final position of a moving object is shifted forward in the direction of that object's motion. It is called representational momentum (RM). This study addressed stimulus-specific effects on RM. In Experiment 1, participants showed larger memory shift for an object moving in its typical direction of motion than when it moved in a nontypical direction of motion. In Experiment 2, participants indicated larger memory shift for a pointed pattern moving in the direction of its point than when it moved in the opposite direction. In Experiment 3, we again examined the influences of knowledge about objects' typical motions and the pointedness of objects, because we did not control the shape (pointedness) of objects in Experiment 1. The results showed that only pointedness affected the magnitude of memory shift and that the effect was smaller than the momentum effect.

Dissolution profiles of principal ingredients in Kampo medicinal powders by high-performance liquid chromatography

We describe here a method using HPLC for the simultaneous determination of albiflorin, paeoniflorin, glycyrrhizin and six flavanone glycosides (liquiritin, liquiritin apioside, naringin, neohesperidin, hesperidin and narirutin) in the Kampo medicines, Shigyaku-san and Haino-san. All nine components were separated in less than 40 min by linear gradient elution using a mobile phase containing aqueous phosphoric acid and acetonitrile. The dissolution of these components from powders of Shigyaku-san in aqueous solution at pH 1.80, 4.08 and 6.89 was examined. All of the components except glycyrrhizin were dissolved entirely within 5 min regardless of pH. Dissolution of glycyrrhizin was dependent on the pH of the aqueous solution, and increased with increasing pH.

Hydroxyprolylserine derivatives JBP923 and JBP485 exhibit the antihepatitis activities after gastrointestinal absorption in rats

It has been a desire to develop orally effective therapeutic agents that restore the liver function in chronic injury. Here we demonstrated that trans-4-L-hydroxyprolyl-L-serine (JBP923) and cyclo-trans-4-L-hydroxyprolyl-L-serine (JBP485), which was previously isolated from hydrolysate of human placenta, exhibit potent antihepatitis activity after their oral administration. The increase in bilirubin concentration and activities of liver cytosolic enzymes in serum caused by alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate intoxication in rats were significantly countered both after i.v. and oral administration of these dipeptides, whereas glycyrrhizin, which has been used in the treatment of chronic hepatitis, is active only after its i.v. administration. Antihepatitis activity of dipeptides results, at least partially, from their direct effect on hepatocytes because glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase and lactate dehydrogenase activities in the medium of hepatotoxin-exposed primary cultured hepatocytes were reduced by these compounds. When comparing the plasma concentration-time profile of JBP923 after its i.v., oral, and portal vein injection, it is suggested that JBP923 is almost completely absorbed from gastrointestinal lumen, and hepatic first-pass removal is minor. JBP923 inhibited the proton-dependent transport of glycylsarcosine in brush-border membrane vesicles, suggesting that peptide transport system(s) may recognize JBP923. Thus, these dipeptides are potent antihepatitis reagents that are still active after oral administration and may be useful for clinical applications.

In mouse alpha -methylacyl-CoA racemase, the same gene product is simultaneously located in mitochondria and peroxisomes

alpha-Methylacyl-CoA racemase, an enzyme of the bile acid biosynthesis and branched chain fatty acid degradation pathway, was studied at the protein, cDNA, and genomic levels in mouse liver. Immunoelectron microscopy and subcellular fractionation located racemase to mitochondria and peroxisomes. The enzymes were purified from both organelles with immunoaffinity chromatography. The isolated proteins were of the same size, with identical N-terminal amino acid sequences, and the existence of additional proteins with alpha-methylacyl-CoA racemase activity was excluded. A racemase gene of about 15 kilobases was isolated. Southern blot analysis and chromosomal localization showed that only one racemase gene is present, on chromosome 15, region 15B1. The putative initial ATG in the racemase gene was preceded by a functional promotor as shown with the luciferase reporter gene assay. The corresponding cDNAs were isolated from rat and mouse liver. The recombinant rat protein was overexpressed in active form in Pichia pastoris. The presented data suggest that the polypeptide encoded by the racemase gene can alternatively be targeted to peroxisomes or mitochondria without modifications. It is concluded that the noncleavable N-terminal sequence of the polypeptide acts as a weak mitochondrial and that the C-terminal sequence acts as a peroxisomal targeting signal.

Inhibitory tagging in visual search can be found if search stimuli remain visible

Klein (1988) reported that inhibitory tagging (i.e., inhibition of return in visual search) made reaction times for the detection of small probes increase at locations where there had previously been rejected items in serial visual search. It is reasonable that the attended and rejected locations are inhibited. However, subsequent studies did not support Klein's idea. In these studies, inhibitory tagging was tested after removing the items from the search tasks. The paradigms in these studies were not appropriate for testing an object-based inhibitory effect because the objects (i.e., items) were removed from the display. In the present study, we found that evidence of inhibitory tagging could be observed only when the items of the search tasks were maintained until the responses for the small probes were made. This appeared to be an object-based effect.

Triterpenoid saponins from the roots of tea plant (Camellia sinensis var. assamica)

Three olean-12-ene type triterpenoid saponins, named TR-saponins A, B and C, were isolated as methyl esters from tea roots (Camellia sinesis var. assamica) after treatment with diazomethane. Their structures were established as the methyl esters of 3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl (1-->3)-beta-D-glucuronopyranosyl-21, 22-di-O-angeloyl-R1-barrigenol-23-oic acid, 3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl (1-->3)-beta-D-glucuronopyranosyl-21-O-angeloyl-22-O-2-me thylbutanoyl-R1- barrigenol-23-oic acid and 3-O-alpha-L-arabinopyranosyl (1-->3)-beta-D-glucuronopyranosyl-16 alpha-O-acetyl-21-O-angeloyl-22-O-2-methylbutanoyl-R1-bar rigenol-23-oic acid, by extensive 1D and 2D-NMR as well as FABMS and HR-MS analyses.

Distribution of verectin in Aloe vera leaves and verectin contents in clonally regenerated plants and the commercial gel powders by immunochemical screening

Verectin antiserum raised in white rabbits was immunochemically applied to examine verectin distribution in Aloe vera leaves during growth and flowering seasons, and to quantify verectin in clonally regenerated plants and commercial A. vera gel products.

Interaction between GADD34 and kinesin superfamily, KIF3A

GADD34 is one of a subset of proteins induced after DNA damage or cell growth arrest. To examine the function of GADD34, we used the yeast two-hybrid system to clone the protein that interacts with the murine GADD34. One cDNA clone was the C-terminal part of KIF3A gene including the tail domain. The interaction between GADD34 and KIF3A was confirmed in the NIH3T3 cells by in vivo two-hybrid analysis. We could detect that GADD34 was induced with methyl methanesulfonate; however, the mRNA induction of KIF3A was not detected.

Simultaneous determination of baicalin, wogonoside, baicalein, wogonin, berberine, coptisine, palmatine, jateorrhizine and glycyrrhizin in Kampo medicines by ion-pair high-performance liquid chromatography

An ion-pair high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the simultaneous determination of four flavonoids, namely baicalin, wogonoside, baicalein and wogonin, and four berberine-type alkaloids, namely berberine, coptisine, palmatine and jateorrhizine, and glycyrrhizin in Kampo medicines is described. The analysis can be accomplished within 30 min with a Wakosil-II 5C18 HG column by linear gradient elution using a mobile phase containing aqueous phosphoric acid, sodium dodecyl sulfate and acetonitrile at a flow-rate of 1.0 ml x min(-1), a thermostatic oven at 45 degrees C, and detection at 265 nm. The method was applied to quantifying these components in three Kampo decoctions: Oren-gedoku-to, San'o-shashin-to and Hange-shashin-to. The decoctions were diluted with 65% methanol at the final stage because a large quantity of precipitate, mainly from baicalin and berberine, was formed. The within-day relative standard deviations were less than 2.02% (n=10). The recoveries of these compounds were 90.3-102%. The detection limits of these compounds were 0.02-1.96 microM per injection (5 microl).

Simultaneous determination of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, norephedrine and methylephedrine in Kampo medicines by high-performance liquid chromatography

A simultaneous high-performance liquid chromatographic method for the determination of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, norephedrine and methylephedrine (ephedrine alkaloids) in Kampo medicines which contain Ephedrae Herba was established. The analysis can be accomplished within 25 min with a Wakosil-II 5C18 HG column by isocratic elution using a mixture of water, acetonitrile and sodium dodecyl sulfate (65:35:0.4) as the mobile phase at a flow-rate of 1.0 ml min(-1), and detection at 210 nm. The detection limits of ephedrine alkaloids are 0.37-1.06 microM per injection (5 microl). This method was applied to analyze the quantities in eight Kampo decoctions; Mao-to, Makyo-yokukan-to, Makyo-kanseki-to, Yokuinin-to, Sho-seiryu-to, Keima-kakuhan-to, Kakkon-to and Kakkon-to-ka-senkyu-sin'i. The concentration (per Ephedrae Herba gram) of ephedrine alkaloids was higher in the Makyo-kanseki-to decoction than in the others. Calcium sulfate from Gypsum Fibrosum raised ephedrine alkaloids dissolution in the Makyo-kanseki-to decoction.

Integrated effect of stimulation at fixation points on EFRP (eye-fixation related brain potentials)

The purpose of this study was to investigate the integrated effect of stimulation at the fixation points just before and just after saccadic eye-movement (saccade) on eye-fixation related brain potentials (EFRP: P75 and N105). Checkerboard patterns were used as stimuli. In Experiment 1, changes in check sizes between two fixation points enhanced the amplitude of P75, while changes in the phases of patterns between the two points did not affect EFRP. This result showed that EFRP was affected by two fixation points, and that changes in the retinal image between the two points did not necessarily affect EFRP. In Experiment 2, the relationship between EFRP and check size was investigated in detail. A second order relationship between logarithm of check size and the latency of P75, and a linear relationship between logarithm of check size and the amplitude of N105 were found. The effect of check size on the amplitude of P75 which might explain the increased amplitude of P75 observed in Experiment 1 did not appear. These results suggest that EFRP might reflect relative higher processing than peripheral stimulation at one fixation point.

In vivo metabolism of aloemannan

The metabolism of fluoresceinyl isothiocyanate labeled aloemannan (FITC-AM) was examined by p.o. and i.v. administration in mice at a dose of 120 mg/kg. Analysis of FITC-AM in urine and feces showed that FITC-AM (MW 500 KD) was metabolized into smaller molecules that mainly accumulated in the kidneys. AM was catabolized by the human intestinal microflora to catabolites 1 and 2 with molecular weights of 30 and 10 KD, respectively. Hydrolysis of AM showed hexosamine peaks on HPAE. The findings suggest that the immunomodulation of AM may come from not only neutral polysaccharides but also contaminated hexosamine in AM.

Transverse elasticity of myofibrils of rabbit skeletal muscle studied by atomic force microscopy

Surface structure of myofibrils of rabbit skeletal muscle and their transverse elasticity were studied by atomic force microscopy. Images of myofibrils had a periodic structure characteristic of sarcomeres of skeletal muscle fibers. The transverse elasticity distribution in the sarcomere was determined based on force-distance curves measured at various loci of single myofibrils. The Z-line in rigor myofibrils was the most rigid in all the loci of myofibrils studied under various physiological conditions. The overall transverse elasticity of myofibrils decreased in the order in rigor solution > +AMPPNP solution > relaxing solution. The "apparent" transverse Young's modulus of myofibrils estimated at the overlap region between thin and thick filaments was 84.0 +/- 18.1, 37.5 +/- 14.0, and 11.5 +/- 3.5 kPa in rigor, +AMPPNP, and relaxing solution respectively.

Simultaneous high-performance liquid chromatographic determination of puerarin, daidzin, paeoniflorin, liquiritin, cinnamic acid, cinnamaldehyde and glycyrrhizin in Kampo medicines

We report a high-performance liquid chromatographic method to determine the quantities of puerarin, daidzin, paeoniflorin, liquiritin, cinnamic acid, cinnamaldehyde and glycyrrhizin in Kampo medicine. All seven compounds were separated in less than 30 min with a Wakosil-II 5C18 AR column by linear gradient elution using 0.01% (v/v) phosphoric acid acetonitrile (0 min 90:10, 10 min 88:12, 22 min 70:30, 30 min 30:70) as the mobile phase at a flow-rate of 1.0 ml/min(-1), and detection at 250 nm. The detection limits of these compounds are 0.15-0.3 microM with response linearity. This method was applied to determine the quantities in eight Kampo decoctions; Mao-to, Makyo-yokukan-to, Makyo-kanseki-to, Yokuinin-to, Sho-seiryu-to, Keima-kakuhan-to, Kakkon-to and Kakkon-to-ka-senkyu-sin'i. Glycyrrhizin content was lower in both the decoction and the methanol-diluted decoction of Sho-seiryu-to compared with the others. Low pH due to organic acids of Schisandrae fructus in the decoction caused inhibition for glycyrrhizin dissolution in Sho-seiryu-to.

[Phonological priming and auditory event-related brain potentials]

Phonological priming effects on auditory event-related brain potentials were compared across different numbers of syllables shared between target words and preceding prime words or pseudowords. All items of words and pseudowords consisted of 3 syllables, and the subject's task was to make a judgment whether the item belonged to a designated category. A large negative wave (N400), commencing at about 250 ms poststimulus and lasting for about 700 ms, was observed irrespective of primes and targets. When targets were preceded by word-primes that shared the first one or two syllables, the onset of N400 at the frontal site was earlier and the initial negative-going phase was steeper than in other conditions. In contrast, the magnitude of N400 to targets was reduced, when the primes were pseudowords that shared the first two syllables. These two types of early and later phonological priming effects were interpreted to reflect facilitations during spoken word recognition at the pre-lexical (phonological) and post-lexical (semantic or contextual integration) levels, respectively.

Topostatin, a novel inhibitor of topoisomerases I and II produced by Thermomonospora alba strain No. 1520. I. Taxonomy, fermentation, isolation and biological activities

A novel inhibitor of topoisomerases designated as topostatin was isolated from the culture filtrate of Thermomonospora alba strain No. 1520. Topostatin inhibited the relaxation of supercoiled pBR322 DNA by calf thymus topoisomerase I, and also inhibited the relaxation of supercoiled pBR322 DNA and decatenation of kinetoplast DNA by human placenta topoisomerase II. Topostatin had neither ability to stabilize the cleavable complex nor ability to intercalate into DNA strands. The inhibitor exhibited growth inhibitory activity against the tumor cells (SNB-75 and SNB-78) of central nervous system, but did not exhibit any antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, yeasts and fungi.

A comprehensive system to explore p53 mutations

To establish an effective and reliable system for the detection of p53 mutations, we evaluated the detection efficiencies of nonisotopic polymerase chain reaction-single-strand conformation polymorphism (PCR-SSCP), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and immunohistochemistry. Ten cell lines (AsPc1, BxPc3, Miapaca2, Panc1, Colo320-011, Lovo, MCF7, LNCaP, HL-60, and Daudi), a peripheral blood sample from a patient with a p53 germline mutation (p53GML), and a normal peripheral blood sample were used for examination. Direct nucleotide sequencing identified p53 mutations in 7 of 12 samples (AsPc1, BxPc3, Miapaca2, Panc1, Colo320-011, HL-60, and p53GML). The nonisotopic PCR-SSCP detected anomalies of the PCR fragments in 5 cell lines. In the FISH analysis, 2 cell lines exhibited loss of heterozygosity of the p53 locus. Immunohistochemistry detected an accumulation of the abnormal p53 in 4 cell lines. The combination of these 3 methods produced no false-negative or false-positive results. This combination may be an excellent and beneficial system for the clinical diagnosis of the various human cancers.

Brain potentials associated with eye fixations during visual tasks under different lighting systems

The variations of eye fixation related potentials (EFRPs) were examined in two tasks under three lighting conditions for assessment of lighting environments. Sixteen subjects participated in two tasks; a difficult and an easy reading task under three lighting conditions: Spot light (S), General light (G) and Mixed light (M). EEG (Oz) and EOG were recorded. EEG epochs time-locked to onset of eye fixations were collected at random and averaged separately in two arrays to obtain a pair of EFRPs. Two wave forms under the S were similar, although those under the G showed the disparity, the largest disparity being in the easy task under the G. Under the S, wave forms of EFRPs were stable in the difficult task. The amplitude changed with the task load. The results suggested that EFRPs might be an index of the work load under lighting conditions.

Immunochemical distinction of Aloe vera, A. arborescens, and A. chinensis gels

Verectin antiserum raised in white rabbits was immunoprecipitated with the Aloe vera nondialysable fraction. Analysis of the immunoprecipitation revealed that verectin accounted for about 1.25% of the total proteins in the nondialysable fraction of Aloe vera gel. The verectin antibody showed differential immunoreactivities against nondialysable fractions of A. arborescens, A. chinensis, and A. vera: 1) an immunopreciptin line was formed against the fraction of A. vera, but not against those of A. arborescens and A. chinensis gel in an Ouchterlony double immunodiffusion test and 2) an immunopositive band was detected in the A. vera and A. chinensis nondialysable fractions but not in that of A. arborescens in immunoblotting. These findings indicate that the verectin antibody can be used to distinguish Aloe materials.

An inhibitor of aldose reductase and sorbitol accumulation from Anthocepharus chinensis

A flavonoid glycoside was isolated from Anthocepharus chinensis. Its structure was elucidated by spectral data and determined to be myricetin 3-O-(4"-acetyl)-alpha-fucoside. This flavonoid glycoside and its aglycone showed potent inhibition against rat and porcine lens aldose reductase. The flavonoid aglycone also inhibited sorbitol accumulation in human red blood cells.

Androgen-dependent expression of prolactin in rat prostate epithelium in vivo and in organ culture

Peptide hormones and growth factors are involved in the regulation of prostatic cell proliferation, differentiation, and programmed cell death, which functions are primarily controlled by androgen. In carcinogenesis, prostatic cancer cells often lose androgen dependence and become largely dependent on local growth factors. The prostatic cancer cells able to respond to factors other than androgen by proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis are possibly able to survive. We demonstrate that prostatic epithelium expresses prolactin mRNA and protein in a characteristic manner. By using in situ hybridization, an overall distribution of prolactin mRNA was demonstrated in the epithelium of rat dorsal and lateral prostate, whereas a very specific localization of prolactin protein to single cells was observed by immunohistochemistry in the same tissues. In these cells, immunoelectron microscopy showed that prolactin was primarily localized to the secretory granules. These data demonstrate a selective regulation of prostatic prolactin at least at the level of transcript processing/translation and/or protein accumulation and secretion. In addition, the expression of prolactin protein in rat dorsal and lateral prostate was found to be androgen dependent in vivo in castrated and in castrated, testosterone-treated rats, as well as in vitro in organ cultures. Our results support the concept of an autocrine/paracrine loop of prolactin action in prostate where it could mediate some of androgen actions. Also, locally synthesized prolactin might belong to the factors that take over androgen regulation of prostatic cancer cells during the development of androgen-independent growth.

Isolation and characterization of the glycoprotein fraction with a proliferation-promoting activity on human and hamster cells in vitro from Aloe vera gel

Fractions of leaf gel from Aloe barbadensis Mill. were prepared by gel permeation using DEAE Sephadex A-25, Sepharose 6B, and Sephadex G-50 columns. These were then tested by in vitro assays for proliferation of human normal dermal and baby hamster kidney cells. The glycoprotein fraction promoted cell growth, while the neutral polysaccharide fraction did not show any growth stimulation. Moreover, the polar-colored glycoprotein fraction strongly inhibited the in vitro assays. An active glycoprotein fraction (protein 82%, carbohydrate 11%) examined on polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and SDS-PAGE showed a single band. Its molecular weight was 29 kD on a Sephadex G-50 column and its isoelectric point was pH 6.8. Immunoblotting after SDS-PAGE showed that the glycoprotein was composed of two subunits (14 kD). Deglycosylation of glycoprotein (Pg21-2b fraction) by trifluoromethanesulphonic acid provided a protein band with a molecular weight of 13 kD on SDS-PAGE. The colored glycoprotein fraction was shown on SDS-PAGE to be a mixture with a molecular weight of 18 kD-15 kD. It was later hydrolyzed with 10% H2SO4 to produce phenolic substances.

Neonatal estrogenization of the male mouse results in urethral dysfunction

PURPOSE

Analysis of voiding pattern, urodynamic measurements and immunohistochemical methods were performed in order to evaluate the effects of neonatal estrogenization on voiding functions of adult male mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Metabolic cages were used for recording the voiding volumes and frequencies. Bladder pressure and mean flow during voiding were measured in transvesical cystometry. Location of estrogen receptors and organization of smooth muscles in lower urinary track were demonstrated using immunohistochemical staining.

RESULTS

Neonatally estrogenized (neoDES) male mice had lower voided urine volumes (the average voided urine volume and average of the three largest volumes) and higher voiding frequencies than control mice. In transvesical cystometry, the maximum bladder pressure during the high-frequency oscillation phase of voiding was significantly elevated. The average urinary flow rate was decreased.

CONCLUSIONS

Urodynamically, these findings are consistent with the concept that neonatally estrogenized mice have infravesical obstruction. The predominance of estrogen receptors in the periurethral region and changes in urethral smooth muscle cells immunocytochemically stained with alpha-actin-antibody support the concept of urethral wall musculature as a target of estrogen action.

Cis- and trans-linalool 3,7-oxides and methyl salicylate glycosides and (Z)-3-hexenyl beta-D-glucopyranoside as aroma precursors from tea leaves for oolong tea

Two new alcoholic aroma precursors, cis- and trans-linalool, 3,7-oxides 6-O-beta-D-apiofuranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranosides (1 and 2), as well as two already known compounds, (Z)-3-hexenyl beta-D-glucopyranoside (3) and methyl salicylate 6-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside (beta-primeveroside: 4), and another new monoterpendiol glycoside, 8-hydroxygeranyl beta-primeveroside (5) have recently been isolated as aroma precursors in tea leaves (Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv. Maoxie) ready for oolong tea processing.

Cis- and trans-linalool 3,7-oxides and methyl salicylate glycosides and (Z)-3-hexenyl beta-D-glucopyranoside as aroma precursors from tea leaves for oolong tea

Two new alcoholic aroma precursors, cis- and trans-linalool, 3,7-oxides 6-O-beta-D-apiofuranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranosides (1 and 2), as well as two already known compounds, (Z)-3-hexenyl beta-D-glucopyranoside (3) and methyl salicylate 6-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside (beta-primeveroside: 4), and another new monoterpendiol glycoside, 8-hydroxygeranyl beta-primeveroside (5) have recently been isolated as aroma precursors in tea leaves (Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv. Maoxie) ready for oolong tea processing.

Microencapsulation of ovalbumin in poly(lactide-co-glycolide) by an oil-in-oil (o/o) solvent evaporation method

The objective of this study was to produce biodegradable poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA; 50/50) microspheres by an oil-in-oil (o/o) solvent evaporation method to prolong the in vitro release of ovalbumin (OVA) as a model protein. The effects, on loading efficiency, microsphere yield, morphology and drug release, of two dispersing agents, aluminium tristearate and Span 80, in mineral oil were examined. PLGA 50/50 microspheres containing OVA powder (sieved through a 53 microns mesh) were prepared using an o/o solvent evaporation method. When aluminum tristearate was employed as a dispersing agent, the loading efficiency and yield of OVA had maximum values of 89 and 72% at 0.15% (w/v) aluminum tristearate, respectively. Morphology studies suggested that the obtained microspheres were spherical, and had a smooth surface. The diameters of the microspheres ranged between 100 and 200 microns. The loading efficiency, or yield, for microspheres decreased significantly above or below 0.15% (w/v) aluminum tristearate, and microspheres with irregular shapes were observed. The minimum sedimentation volume ratio (F) was obtained at a dispersity of carbon black particles in ethanol containing 0.15% (w/v) aluminum tristearate by a sedimentation study, and the cloudy supernatant suggested a deflocculated suspension. However, on the contrary, when Span 80 was added into the mineral oil as a dispersing agent, the concentration of Span 80 had little or no effect on the characteristics of the prepared microspheres. Drug loadings (60-70%) were obtained within the Span 80 concentrations employed in the present study (0.05-1.0% (w/v)). The yields were also in the same levels. The microspheres prepared in mineral oil containing Span 80 had an average diameter less than 50 microns in all cases. Sustained-release characteristics were demonstrated for PLGA microspheres prepared in mineral oil containing aluminum tristearate as a dispersing agent, even though a burst release at the initial phase was observed. This initial burst release from PLGA microspheres was reduced to some extent by micronization of the OVA powder using a planetary-type ball mill. However, PLGA microspheres prepared in mineral oil containing Span 80 as a dispersing agent, exhibited a large initial burst release. This burst release seems to be due to the smaller size of microspheres and the OVA powder adhering to the surface of PLGA microspheres (confirmed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) study).

Antifungal activity from Alpinia galanga and the competition for incorporation of unsaturated fatty acids in cell growth

An antimicrobial diterpene was isolated from Alpinia galanga in the screening for potentiators of phytochemical antibiotic action. The structure was elucidated by spectral data and identified as (E)-8 beta, 17-epoxylabd-12-ene-15, 16-dial (1). Diterpene 1 synergistically enhanced the antifungal activity of quercetin and chalcone against Candida albicans. Antifungal activity of 1 was reversed by unsaturated fatty acids. Protoplasts of C. albicans were lysed by 1. These results suggest that antifungal activity of 1 is due to a change of membrane permeability arising from membrane lipid alternation.

Growth of cultured human bronchiogenic epithelioid CCD-14 Br cells and dermal fibroblasts, NB1 RGB treated with ginseng tetrapeptide and its isomer

The configurations of the component amino acids in ginseng tetrapeptide 1 isolated from Panax ginseng were determined by HPLC with an optical resolution column and the structure of 1 was established to be H-L-Val-gamma-D-Glu-D-Arg- Gly-OH. Synthesis of the ginseng tetrapeptide, 1, and of the configuration and conjugation isomers, H-L-Val-gamma-L-Glu-L-Arg-Gly-OH (2), H-L-Val-D-Glu- D-Arg-Gly-OH (3), and H-L-Val-L-Glu-L-Arg-Gly-OH (4) was carried out by a solid-phase method using the Fmoc strategy. The effects of 1-4 on the proliferation of baby hamster kidney (BHK)-21 cells, normal female bronchiogenic epithelioid (CCD-14 Br) cells, and normal human epidermal fibroblast (NB1 RGB) were examined. Only 1 showed 32 and 23% enhancement of BHK-21 and human CCD-14 Br cells growth, respectively, at a concentration of 13.6 microM and 41% enhancement of NB1 RGB cells growth at a concentration of 32 microM under the conditions employed. It was shown that both the configuration of the component amino acids and the peptide conjugation at a gamma-position of D-Glu in 1 are important for proliferation of the cells. Compound 1 exerted a prominent effect on cell stimulation and growth rate without any morphological change and showed no cytotoxicity.

Effect of Polygonum hydropiper sulfated flavonoids on lens aldose reductase and related enzymes

The sulfated flavonoids in Polygonum hydropiper showed potent inhibiton against lens aldose reductase. Among these flavonoids isorhamnetin 3,7-disulfate (5) was most potent. Kinetic analysis showed that 5 exhibited noncompetitive inhibition against both dl-glyceraldehyde and NADPH.

Instability of bovine insulin in poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) microspheres

Biodegradable poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA; 50/50) microspheres containing bovine insulin as a model protein was prepared by an oil-in-oil (o/o) emulsion solvent evaporation process. When aluminum tristearate (0.15% (w/v)) was employed as a dispersing agent, the loading efficiency of insulin was almost 100% and the yield was over 80%. The average diameter of the PLGA microspheres always ranged between 100 and 200 microns. Morphology study using a scanning electron micrograph showed smooth, spherical, fairly monodispersed PLGA microspheres containing insulin. In relation to release profile, the very low release rate of insulin was demonstrated (only 1% of insulin released after 7 d release test in pH 7.4 Tris buffer) for the PLGA microspheres. Nevertheless, the degradation of bovine insulin in PLGA microspheres was confirmed by high performance liquid chromatography. This degradation seemed to be caused by an acidic condition caused by poly(lactide-co-glycolide) polymer.

Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in rats induces pathomorphological changes in germ cells

Concern about the reproductive potential of long-term survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) prompted an investigation into the impact of the disease on spermatogenic cells. Using rats as a model, histological, immunocytochemical and electron microscopic analysis was applied to investigate changes in the seminiferous epithelium. In rats transplanted with leukaemic cells at early puberty, degenerate primary spermatocytes and spermatids were prevalent within stage VIII tubules. Electron microscopically, step 8 spermatids showed acrosomal abnormalities and nuclear contour distortion. In the distorted step 9 spermatids, the microtubules of the manchette were abnormally oriented or deficient. Antitubulin antibody staining was reduced in elongating spermatids in the group transplanted with leukaemic cells at early puberty but was not observed in the older leukaemic group. Step 13 spermatids showed extracted chromatin and degenerate step 19 spermatids were occasionally found. Similar but less severe changes were seen in the group of rats transplanted with leukaemic cells at late puberty. We conclude that germinal cell damage induced by ALL is dependent on the developmental maturity of the seminiferous epithelium. The present findings are of particular importance when interpreting the impact of anticancer chemotherapeutics on germinal cells in patients with ALL.

Inhibition of lipid peroxidation and superoxide generation by diterpenoids from Rosmarinus officinalis

Four diterpenoids, carnosic acid (1), carnosol (2), rosmanol (3), and epirosmanol (4), were isolated as antioxidative agents from the leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis by bioassay-directed fractionation. These diterpenoids inhibited superoxide anion production in the xanthine/xanthine oxidase system. Mitochondrial and microsomal lipid peroxidation induced by NADH or NADPH oxidation were also completely inhibited by these diterpenes at the concentration of 3-30 microM. Furthermore, carnosic acid protected red cells against oxidative hemolysis. These phenolic diterpenes were shown to be effective to protect biological systems against oxidative stresses.

A study on tea aroma formation mechanism: alcoholic aroma precursor amounts and glycosidase activity in parts of the tea plant

We have shown in molecular basis that alcoholic tea aroma is mainly formed by endogenous enzymatic hydrolysis of glycosidic aroma precursors during manufacturing. Amounts of alcoholic aroma precursor and glycosidase activity in each part of the tea shoot (Camellia sinensis var. sinensis cv Yabukita and a hybrid of var. assamica & var. sinensis cv Izumi) were indirectly measured by means of a crude enzyme assay. The aroma precursors were abundant in young leaves and decreased as the leaf aged. Glycosidase activity also decreased as leaves aged, but was high in stems.

Expression of mitochondrial heat shock protein 60 in distinct cell types and defined stages of rat seminiferous epithelium

Changes in the level of the gene transcript of heat shock protein (hsp)60, a mitochondrial chaperonin, during the cycle of rat seminiferous epithelium and its cellular localization were studied. The seminiferous epithelium showed a cell type-specific expression of hsp60. Immunostaining of adult rat testis revealed localization in Sertoli and Leydig cells. In germ cells, mitochondria of spermatogonia and early primary spermatocytes were immunoreactive for hsp60. Mitochondria of all other germ cell types were completely negative for hsp60. Stage-specific expression of hsp60 was determined from pooled segments of stage-specific microdissected tubules by a combination of Western blotting and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). High concentrations of hsp60 were found in stages I-V and IX-XIV, and low levels were detected in the other stages, i.e., VI-VIII. In stages with high hsp60 expression, spermatogonia divide mitotically, whereas in stages lacking mitosis, the hsp60 level was much weaker. In seminiferous epithelium, two different types of mitochondria are present. Therefore, immunoelectron microscopy was used to differentiate these two morphologically distinct types of mitochondria. The crista type of mitochondria (e.g., in Sertoli cells and spermatogonia) reacted with the antibody against hsp60, whereas hsp60 was negative in so-called "condensed"-type mitochondria found in midpachytene spermatocytes and more advanced germ cells. It could be shown for the first time that expression of the hsp60 gene is regulated during the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium. The results indicate that the gene product is primarily needed during the initial steps of spermatogenesis in which most of the cell divisions occur, while its expression during the differentiation of spermatids and sperm is obviously not necessary. The presence of hsp60 in stages with mitotic activity suggests a very active mitochondrial protein import and protein assembly machinery that generates further mitochondria for the dividing cells.

Differential distribution of laminin chains in the development and sex differentiation of mouse internal genitalia

The distribution of laminin chains and basement membranes (BMs) in the ontogenesis and sex differentiation of male and female mouse gonads and mesonephros was studied by conventional and immunocytochemical light and electron microscopy. The alpha 1 (synonymous to A) chain was recognized with MAbs against fragment E3, and three chains of laminin with PAbs raised against EHS-laminin. BMs, which formed around the mesonephric duct, the mesonephric tubules, and the paramesonephric duct, contained the laminin alpha 1 chain. The alpha 1 chain appeared with epithelial differentiation in the developing gonads in both sexes. The alpha 1 chain was first evident around the embryonic gonadal cords and remained, after development, in the BMs of the testicular cords and ovarian follicles. The laminin alpha 1 chain was also detected in BMs of the myoid cells around the epithelial rete cords, and transiently in the surface epithelium and in the corpus luteum. Laminin beta-gamma chains were found in many locations where the alpha 1 chain was not detected. These included the mesenchyme of the early mesonephros, the BMs of blood vessels and surface epithelium in the differentiated testis and ovary, between the theca cells in the ovary, and in some corpora lutea. The morphological differentiation of the BMs of the embryonic testicular cords proceeded rapidly. In contrast, the BM of the ovarian cords remained relatively poorly differentiated during the prenatal phases, and developed concomitantly with the differentiation of the follicles. The results show that BMs in the differentiating internal genitalia are heterogeneous with respect to their laminin chains, and suggest that all known laminin chains must be analyzed in the differentiation of gonadal epithelia for a complete role of the BMs in gonadal sex differentiation.

Glycosidic aroma precursors of 2-phenylethyl and benzyl alcohols from Jasminum sambac flowers

Benzyl 6-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside (beta-primeveroside) (1), 2-phenylethyl beta-primeveroside (2), and 2-phenylethyl 6-O-alpha-L-rhamnopyranosyl-beta-D-glucopyranoside (beta-rutinoside) (3) were isolated as aroma precursors of benzyl alcohol and 2-phenylethanol from flower buds of Jasminum sambac Ait. The isolation was guided by an enzymatic hydrolysis and GC and GC-MS analyses.

Bipolal: anti-microalgal compound isolated as a candidate for marine antifouling produced by Bipolaris sp. F5206

Bipolal [1], a new compound with marine antifouling potential, was isolated from the culture broth of Bipolaris sp. The structure was determined to be an eremophilane derivative on the basis of 2D nmr spectroscopy and chemical transformations.

Ordered structure of the crystallized bovine 20S proteasome

Eukaryotic proteasomes are multicatalytic proteinase complexes with a molecular weight of 750 kDa, containing, respectively, two copies of a hetero-heptamer of alpha-type subunits and one of beta-type subunits, (alpha 1-7 beta 1-7)2. Proteasome was purified from bovine liver and crystallized into a hexagonal system with cell dimensions of a = b = 121.83(2) A, c = 930.68(6) A. A cylindrical particle size of 122 A diameter and 155 A height was determined from the molecular packing in a unit cell. The crystal gave diffraction spots up to at least 4.4 A resolution, which was the minimum spacing of the camera used. The overall temperature factor of the enzyme was estimated to be in the range of 36.2 to 25.8 A2. These results imply that the enzyme complex has a unique ordered structure comprising multisubunits with two types of hetero-heptamer. This ordered structure may facilitate highly organized cooperation of individual functions of subunits within the enzyme complex.