Molecular markers and prediction of response to chemoradiation in rectal cancer

Preoperative chemotherapy and radiation (chemoradiation) are increasingly used in the treatment of advanced rectal carcinoma to downstage the tumor so that a sphincter sparing procedure is used. This treatment modality has also resulted in not only local disease control but also decreased metastasis and increased survival. It is well known that with standard chemoradiation some tumors show marked pathologic response, while others remain non-responsive. Identification of tumor markers that can predict responsiveness to chemoradiation is extremely useful to avoid unnecessary preoperative treatment. To understand the role of thymidylate synthase (TS), p53 and Bcl-2 proteins, if any, in tumor response/resistance to chemoradiation, we examined pretreatment biopsy material obtained from 12 responsive and 13 non-responsive patients by immunohistochemistry. TS was undetectable in 11 of 12 (92%) responsive tumors and overexpressed in only 1 tumor (8%); whereas, p53 or Bcl-2 was overexpressed in 8 tumors (66%). In the non-responsive group of 13 tumors, overexpression of TS, p53 and Bcl-2 was observed in 7, 5 and 6 tumors, respectively. In 6 non-responsive tumors in which TS was undetectable, 5 tumors contained high levels of p53 or Bcl-2. These results indicate that level of TS in tumors is the best predictor of sensitivity or resistance to chemoradiation. No such correlation between overexpression of p53 and Bcl-2 and response to chemoradiation is observed.

Histogenesis of pseudo-ductular changes induced in the pancreas of guinea pigs treated with N-methyl-N-nitrosourea

Tumors of the exocrine pancreas of the inbred strain 13 guinea pigs, induced by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea, reveal duct-like glandular differentiation and marked desmoplastic reaction of the stroma, characteristic of adenocarcinoma of human pancreas. During the course of induction of these tumors in the guinea pigs by N-methyl-N-nitrosourea, atypical pseudo-ductular proliferations were encountered in the pancreas which appeared to be precursor lesions for pancreatic carcinoma. The histogenesis of these pseudo-ductular lesions was studied by light and electron microscopy. The earliest changes consisted of dilatation of acinar lumina with decrease of apical cytoplasm and increased mitotic activity of the acinar cells. The actively proliferating, well-formed pseudo-ductules were lined by cuboidal or flattened epithelium containing a prominent nucleus and scant cytoplasm with few or no discernible zymogen granules by light microscopy. By electron microscopy, the cells lining the pseudo-ductules displayed features of immature or embryonic pancreatic acinar cells characterized by prominent nucleoli, marked decrease in rough endoplasmic reticulum with increase of free ribosomes, atypical zymogen granules and abundant microfilaments and microtubules. In two guinea pigs, transition from pseudo-ductular changes to adenocarcinoma was clearly evident. On the basis of these findings, it is proposed that the pseudo-ductular lesions of the guinea pig pancreas, and possibly those occuring in other species, are derived from acinar cells as a consequence of carcinogen induced cell proliferation leading to immature or dedifferentiated phenotypes. This hypothesis can, in part, be confirmed by immunocytochemical localization of pancreatic acinar cell specific secretory proteins and lectins in these pseudo-ductules.

Regulation of eye development by frizzled signaling in Xenopus

Eye development in both invertebrates and vertebrates is regulated by a network of highly conserved transcription factors. However, it is not known what controls the expression of these factors to regulate early eye formation and whether transmembrane signaling events are involved. Here we establish a role for signaling via a member of the frizzled family of receptors in regulating early eye development. We show that overexpression of Xenopus frizzled 3 (Xfz3), a receptor expressed during normal eye development, functions cell autonomously to promote ectopic eye formation and can perturb endogenous eye development. Ectopic eyes obtained with Xfz3 overexpression have a laminar organization similar to that of endogenous eyes and contain differentiated retinal cell types. Ectopic eye formation is preceded by ectopic expression of transcription factors involved in early eye development, including Pax6, Rx, and Otx2. Conversely, targeted overexpression of a dominant-negative form of Xfz3 (Nxfz3), consisting of the soluble extracellular domain of the receptor, results in suppression of endogenous Pax6, Rx, and Otx2 expression and suppression of endogenous eye development. This effect can be rescued by coexpression of Xfz3. Finally, overexpression of Kermit, a protein that interacts with the C-terminal intracellular domain of Xfz3, also blocks endogenous eye development, suggesting that signaling through Xfz3 or a related receptor is required for normal eye development. In summary, we show that frizzled signaling is both necessary and sufficient to regulate eye development in Xenopus.

Identification and analysis of the acyl carrier protein (ACP) docking site on beta-ketoacyl-ACP synthase III

The molecular details that govern the specific interactions between acyl carrier protein (ACP) and the enzymes of fatty acid biosynthesis are unknown. We investigated the mechanism of ACP-protein interactions using a computational analysis to dock the NMR structure of ACP with the crystal structure of beta-ketoacyl-ACP synthase III (FabH) and experimentally tested the model by the biochemical analysis of FabH mutants. The activities of the mutants were assessed using both an ACP-dependent and an ACP-independent assay. The ACP interaction surface was defined by mutations that compromised FabH activity in the ACP-dependent assay but had no effect in the ACP-independent assay. ACP docked to a positively charged/hydrophobic patch adjacent to the active site tunnel on FabH, which included a conserved arginine (Arg-249) that was required for ACP docking. Kinetic analysis and direct binding studies between FabH and ACP confirmed the identification of Arg-249 as critical for FabH-ACP interaction. Our experiments reveal the significance of the positively charged/hydrophobic patch located adjacent to the active site cavities of the fatty acid biosynthesis enzymes and the high degree of sequence conservation in helix II of ACP across species.

Critical factors in chitin production by fermentation of shrimp biowaste

Factors affecting Lactobacillus fermentation of shrimp waste for chitin and protein liquor production were determined. The objective of the fermentation is medium conditioning by Lactobacillus through production of proteases and lowering of the pH. The efficiency was tested by conducting fermentation of biowaste in 1-1 beakers with or without pH adjustment using different acids. Addition of 5% glucose to the biowaste supported the growth of lactic acid bacteria and led to better fermentation. Among four acids tested to control pH at the start and during fermentation, acetic acid and citric acid proved to be the most effective. In biowaste fermented with 6.7% L. plantarum inoculum, 5% glucose, and pH 6.0 adjusted with acetic acid, 75% deproteination and 86% demineralization was achieved. Replacement of acetic acid by citric acid gave 88% deproteination and 90% demineralization. The fermentation carried out in the presence of acetic acid resulted in a protein fraction that smelled good and a clean chitin fraction.

Region-specific differentiation of neural tube-derived neuronal restricted progenitor cells after heterotopic transplantation

Spinal cord neuronal restricted progenitor (NRP) cells, when transplanted into the neonatal anterior forebrain subventricular zone, migrate to distinct regions throughout the forebrain including the olfactory bulb, frontal cortex, and occipital cortex but not to the hippocampus. Their migration pattern and differentiation potential is distinct from anterior forebrain subventricular zone NRPs. Irrespective of their final destination, NRP cells do not differentiate into glia. Rather they synthesize neurotransmitters, acquire region-specific phenotypes, and receive synapses from host neurons after transplantation. Spinal cord NRPs express choline acetyl transferase even in regions where host neurons do not express this marker. The restricted distribution of transplanted spinal cord NRP cells and their acquisition of varied region-specific phenotypes suggest that their ultimate fate and phenotype is dictated by a combination of intrinsic properties and extrinsic cues from the host.

Less extrahepatic induction of fatty acid beta-oxidation enzymes by PPAR alpha

The peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPAR alpha) is a nuclear receptor that transcriptionally regulates mitochondrial and peroxisomal fatty acid beta-oxidation enzymes in the liver. Ligands include synthetic peroxisome proliferators and some fatty acids. PPARalpha activation leads to predictable pleiotropic responses in liver including peroxisome proliferation, increased fatty acid oxidation, and hepatocellular carcinoma. In the current study, the response to PPAR alpha-activation was compared in the heart, kidney, and liver since the role of PPAR alpha in extrahepatic fatty acid-oxidizing organs has not been fully explored. Basal expression of mitochondrial beta-oxidation enzymes was comparable in the three tissues, but peroxisomal beta-oxidation enzymes were most abundant in the liver and less so in the kidney and especially in the heart. After PPAR alpha activation with ciprofibrate, both mitochondrial and peroxisomal beta-oxidation enzymes were induced, with the strongest response seen in the liver, a moderate response in the kidney, and no significant response in the heart. PPAR alpha mRNA analysis suggested that the differential response may be related to PPAR alpha expression.

Frizzled-4 expression during chick kidney development

Wnts have been implicated in metanephric kidney development. To determine whether Frizzleds, the genes that encode Wnt receptors, are present at early stages of nephrogenesis, we examined the expression of several recently identified Frizzled genes in the chick by in situ hybridization. Here we report the cloning and characterization of chick Frizzled-4 (cFz-4), which we found to be expressed in the developing chick kidney. cFz-4 was first expressed in the pronephros caudal to the third somite at Hamburger and Hamilton stage 10. Its expression increased with maturation, becoming restricted to the newly induced glomeruli and tubules in the mesonephros and metanephros. Within the metanephros, cFz-4 and Wnt-4 expression patterns were similar, whereas Wnt-11 was expressed solely in the tips of the branching ureteric bud. cFz-4 expression was compared with that of known kidney markers. It preceded that of Lmx-1, but was similarly restricted to developing glomeruli and tubules. In contrast, Pax-2 expression and Lim 1/2 antibody labeling occurred in intermediate mesoderm caudal to the fifth somite in the early pronephros, and each persisted in both the tubules and nephric ducts throughout further development.

Efficacy of aprotinin, epsilon aminocaproic acid, or combination in cyanotic heart disease

BACKGROUND

Aprotinin and epsilon aminocaproic acid are antifibrinolytic agents used to reduce postoperative blood loss after cardiopulmonary bypass. We compared low dose aprotinin with epsilon aminocaproic acid and a combination of the two agents to reduce postoperative blood loss in infants with congenital cyanotic heart disease undergoing corrective surgical procedures.

METHODS

This prospective study was conducted randomly on 300 children. Group I (n = 80) acted as the control and did not receive either of the study drugs. Group II (n = 100) received low dose aprotinin, group III (n = 60) received epsilon aminocaproic acid, and group IV (n = 60) received a combination of the two antifibrinolytic agents.

RESULTS

The control group had the longest time for sternal closure, maximum blood loss at 24 hours, and greatest requirements for packed red blood cells and platelets. Fibrinogen levels were significantly lower, and levels of fibrin breakdown products were significantly higher compared with the groups given either or both of the antifibrinolytics.

CONCLUSIONS

Epsilon aminocaproic acid is as efficacious as low dose aprotinin in reducing postoperative blood loss and packed red blood cell and platelet requirements in children with congenital cyanotic heart disease. The combination of the two was slightly more effective.

Defect in peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha-inducible fatty acid oxidation determines the severity of hepatic steatosis in response to fasting

Fasting causes lipolysis in adipose tissue leading to the release of large quantities of free fatty acids into circulation that reach the liver where they are metabolized to generate ketone bodies to serve as fuels for other tissues. Since fatty acid-metabolizing enzymes in the liver are transcriptionally regulated by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARalpha), we investigated the role of PPARalpha in the induction of these enzymes in response to fasting and their relationship to the development of hepatic steatosis in mice deficient in PPARalpha (PPARalpha(-/-)), peroxisomal fatty acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX(-/-)), and in both PPARalpha and AOX (double knock-out (DKO)). Fasting for 48-72 h caused profound impairment of fatty acid oxidation in both PPARalpha(-/-) and DKO mice, and DKO mice revealed a greater degree of hepatic steatosis when compared with PPARalpha(-/-) mice. The absence of PPARalpha in both PPARalpha(-/-) and DKO mice impairs the induction of mitochondrial beta-oxidation in liver following fasting which contributes to hypoketonemia and hepatic steatosis. Pronounced steatosis in DKO mouse livers is due to the added deficiency of peroxisomal beta-oxidation system in these animals due to the absence of AOX. In mice deficient in AOX alone, the sustained hyperactivation of PPARalpha and up-regulation of mitochondrial beta-oxidation and microsomal omega-oxidation systems as well as the regenerative nature of a majority of hepatocytes containing numerous spontaneously proliferated peroxisomes, which appear refractory to store triglycerides, blunt the steatotic response to fasting. Starvation for 72 h caused a decrease in PPARalpha hepatic mRNA levels in wild type mice, with no perceptible compensatory increases in PPARgamma and PPARdelta mRNA levels. PPARgamma and PPARdelta hepatic mRNA levels were lower in fed PPARalpha(-/-) and DKO mice when compared with wild type mice, and fasting caused a slight increase only in PPARgamma levels and a decrease in PPARdelta levels. Fasting did not change the PPAR isoform levels in AOX(-/-) mouse liver. These observations point to the critical importance of PPARalpha in the transcriptional regulatory responses to fasting and in determining the severity of hepatic steatosis.

The effect of microvesicular fatty change on liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Hepatic resection for primary and secondary liver tumors and transplantation of segments of liver into patients with severe liver disease has become a common practice. However, the information on the regenerative potential of liver with various underlying diseases, particularly, the common disorder fatty change, is sparse.

METHODOLOGY

In the present study we have evaluated the regenerative potential of liver in mice lacking fatty acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX-/-) after partial hepatectomy. Liver regeneration was assessed by measuring mitotic activity and 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling using immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

BrdU labeling index in AOX-/- mice was 99 +/- 32, 156 +/- 28, 54 +/- 13, and 120 +/- 33 per 1000 cells at 48, 60, 72 and 84 hours, respectively after partial hepatectomy. Comparable BrdU labeling index was observed in AOX+/+ mice. Similarly, mitotic index in both groups was comparable.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that DNA synthesis after partial hepatectomy in genetically altered mice with microvesicular fatty change is unaffected.

Immunocytochemical and physiological characterization of a population of cultured human neural precursors

Human neural precursor cells (HNPC) have recently become commercially available. In an effort to determine the usefulness of these cells for in vitro studies, we have grown cultured HNPCs (cHNPCs) according to the supplier specifications. Here we report our characterization of cHNPCs under nondifferentiating and differentiating growth conditions and make a comparison to primary HNPCs (pHNPCs) obtained at the same developmental time point from a different commercial supplier. We found that under nondifferentiating conditions, cHNPCs expressed nestin, divided rapidly, expressed few markers of differentiated cells, and displayed both 4-aminopyridine (4-AP)-sensitive and delayed-rectifier type K(+) currents. No inward currents were observed. On changing to differentiating culture conditions, a majority of the cells expressed neuronal markers, did not divide, expressed inward and outward time- and voltage-dependent currents, and responded to the application of the neurotransmitters acetylcholine and glutamate. The outward current densities were indistinguishable from those in undifferentiated cells. The inward currents included TTX-sensitive and -resistant Na(+) currents, sustained Ca(2+) currents, and an inwardly rectifying K(+) current. Comparison of the properties of differentiated cells from cHNPCs with neurons obtained from primary fetal cultures (pHNPCs) revealed two major differences: the differentiated cHNPCs did not express embryonic neural cell adhesion molecule (E-NCAM) immunoreactivity but did co-express GFAP immunoreactivity. The co-expression of neuronal and glial markers was likely due to the growth of cells in serum containing medium as the pHNPCs that were never exposed to serum did express E-NCAM and did not co-express glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). The relevance of these results is discussed and compared with results from other neuronal progenitor populations and cultured human neuronal cells.

Mouse liver selenium-binding protein decreased in abundance by peroxisome proliferators

Several studies with two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) have shown that the abundance of numerous mouse liver proteins is altered in response to treatment with chemicals known to cause peroxisome proliferation. The peptide masses from tryptic digests of two liver proteins showing dramatic decreases in abundance in response to numerous peroxisome proliferators were used to search sequence databases. The selenium-binding protein 2 (SBP2 formerly 56 kDa acetaminophen-binding protein, AP 56) and selenium-binding protein 1 (SBP1 formerly 56 kDa selenium-binding protein, SP 56) in mouse liver, proteins with a high degree of sequence similarity, were the highest ranked identities obtained. Identity with SBP2 was subsequently confirmed by immunodetection with specific antiserum. Treatment of mice with 0.025% ciprofibrate resulted in the more basic of this pair of proteins being decreased to 30% of control abundance while the acidic protein was decreased to 7% of the control amount. Dexamethasone treatment, in contrast, caused increases of 80% and 20% in the abundance of the acidic and basic forms, respectively. Administration of dexamethasone to mice in combination with ciprofibrate produced expression of the acidic SBP2 at 23% of the control level and the basic SBP2 at 36%, a slightly moderated reduction compared with the decrease that occurred with ciprofibrate alone. These data suggest that peroxisome proliferators such as ciprofibrate cause a decrease in the abundance of the SBP2, which leads to increased cell proliferation, even in the presence of an inhibitor such as dexamethasone. Such a decrease in SBP, thought to serve as cell growth regulation factors, could be central to the nongenotoxic carcinogenicity of the peroxisome proliferators observed in rodents.

Deletion of PBP/PPARBP, the gene for nuclear receptor coactivator peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-binding protein, results in embryonic lethality

We previously isolated and identified peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-binding Protein (PBP) as a coactivator for PPARgamma. PBP has recently been identified as a component of the multiprotein complexes such as TRAP, DRIP, and ARC that appear to play an important role in the transcriptional activation by several transcriptional factors including nuclear receptors. To assess the biological significance of PBP, we disrupted the PBP gene (PBP/PPARBP) in mice by homologous recombination. PBP(+/-) mice are healthy, fertile, and do not differ significantly from PBP(+/+) control littermates. PBP null mutation (PBP(-/-)) is embryonically lethal at embryonic day 11.5, suggesting that PBP is an essential gene for mouse embryogenesis. The embryonic lethality is attributed, in part, to defects in the development of placental vasculature similar to those encountered in PPARgamma mutants. Transient transfection assays using fibroblasts isolated from PBP mutant embryos revealed a decreased capacity for ligand-dependent transcriptional activation of PPARgamma as compared with fibroblasts derived form the wild type embryos. These observations suggest that there is no functional redundancy between PBP and other coactivators such as steroid receptor coactivator-1 and that PBP plays a critical role in the signaling of PPARgamma and other nuclear receptors.

Isolation and characterization of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) interacting protein (PRIP) as a coactivator for PPAR

We previously isolated and identified steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-binding protein (PBP/PPARBP) as coactivators for PPAR, using the ligand-binding domain of PPARgamma as bait in a yeast two-hybrid screening. As part of our continuing effort to identify cofactors that influence the transcriptional activity of PPARs, we now report the isolation of a novel coactivator from mouse, designated PRIP (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor interacting protein), a nuclear protein with 2068 amino acids and encoded by 13 exons. Northern analysis showed that PRIP mRNA is ubiquitously expressed in many tissues of adult mice. PRIP contains two LXXLL signature motifs. The amino-terminal LXXLL motif (amino acid position 892 to 896) of PRIP was found to be necessary for nuclear receptor interaction, but the second LXXLL motif (amino acid position 1496 to 1500) appeared unable to bind PPARgamma. Deletion of the last 12 amino acids from the carboxyl terminus of PPARgamma resulted in the abolition of the interaction between PRIP and PPARgamma. PRIP also binds to PPARalpha, RARalpha, RXRalpha, ER, and TRbeta1, and this binding is increased in the presence of specific ligands. PRIP acts as a strong coactivator for PPARgamma in the yeast and also potentiates the transcriptional activities of PPARgamma and RXRalpha in mammalian cells. A truncated form of PRIP (amino acids 786-1132) acts as a dominant-negative repressor, suggesting that PRIP is a genuine coactivator.

Characterization of avian frizzled genes in cranial placode development

To determine the possible role of Wnt signaling in cranial placode development, we have cloned several chick frizzled genes, a family of putative Wnt receptor molecules, and analyzed their expression during chick embryogenesis. Chick frizzled-2 (cFz-2) and frizzled-7 (cFz-7) are expressed broadly in cranial ectoderm, tissue that is competent to express markers of the trigeminal placode (Stark et al., 1997. Development 124, 4287-4295; Baker et al., 1999. Development 126, 147-156). In addition, cFz-2 and cFz-7 are uniquely expressed in other cranial placodes, including the olfactory, lens, and otic placodes. Chick frizzled-1 (cFz-1) is expressed in the lens, otic placode and, along with cFz-7, in epibranchial placodes. Each frizzled gene expressed in the otic placode displays a unique domain of expression: cFz-1 transcripts are detected in the medial wall of the vesicle, cFz-2 in the rostral rim of the vesicle, and cFz-7 in the lateral half of the vesicle. Other chick frizzled family members cloned that do not show striking expression in cranial placodes include frizzled-4 (cFz-4), frizzled-8 (cFz-8), frizzled-9 (cFz-9), and frizzled-10 (cFz-10). A brief summary of their expression is given, along with a brief summary of non-placodal expression of cFz-1, cFz-2, and cFz-7. In all, frizzled genes show dynamic expression at key times during embryonic development, particularly in the cranial placodes.

Gliogenesis in the central nervous system

Multipotential neuroepithelial stem cells are thought to give rise to all the differentiated cells of the central nervous system (CNS). The developmental potential of these multipotent stem cells becomes more restricted as they differentiate into progressively more committed cells and ultimately into mature neurons and glia. In studying gliogenesis, the optic nerve and spinal cord have become invaluable models and the progressive stages of differentiation are being clarified. Multiple classes of glial precursors termed glial restricted precursors (GRP), oligospheres, oligodendrocyte-type2 astrocyte (O-2A) and astrocyte precursor cells (APC) have been identified. Similar classes of precursor cells can be isolated from human neural stem cell cultures and from embryonic stem (ES) cell cultures providing a non-fetal source of such cells. In this review, we discuss gliogenesis, glial stem cells, putative relationships of these cells to each other, factors implicated in gliogenesis, and therapeutic applications of glial precursors.

Hydrogen peroxide generation in peroxisome proliferator-induced oncogenesis

Peroxisome proliferators are a structurally diverse group of non-genotoxic chemicals that induce predictable pleiotropic responses including the development of liver tumors in rats and mice. These chemicals interact variably with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), which are members of the nuclear receptor superfamily. Evidence derived from mice with PPARalpha gene disruption indicates that of the three PPAR isoforms (alpha, beta/delta and gamma), the isoform PPARalpha is essential for the pleiotropic responses induced by peroxisome proliferators. Peroxisome proliferator-induced activation of PPARalpha leads to profound transcriptional activation of genes encoding for the classical peroxisomal beta-oxidation system and cytochrome P450 CYP 4A isoforms, CYP4A1 and CYP4A3, among others. Livers with peroxisome proliferation manifest substantial increases in the expression of H(2)O(2)-generating peroxisomal fatty acyl-CoA oxidase, the first enzyme of the classical peroxisomal fatty acid beta-oxidation system, and of microsomal cytochrome P450 4A1 and 4A3 genes. Disproportionate increases in H(2)O(2)-generating enzymes and H(2)O(2)-degrading enzyme catalase and reductions in glutathione peroxidase activity by peroxisome proliferators, lead to increased oxidative stress in liver cells. Sustained oxidative stress resulting from chronic increases in H(2)O(2)-generating enzymes manifests as massive accumulation of lipofuscin in hepatocytes, and increased levels of 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine adducts in liver DNA; this supports the hypothesis that oxidative stress plays a critical role in the development of liver tumors induced by these non-genotoxic chemical carcinogens. Evidence also indicates that cells stably overexpressing H(2)O(2)-generating fatty acyl-CoA oxidase or urate oxidase, when exposed to appropriate substrate(s), reveal features of neoplastic conversion including growth in soft agar and formation of tumors in nude mice. Mice with disrupted fatty acyl-CoA oxidase gene (AOX(-/-) mice), which encodes the first enzyme of the PPARalpha regulated peroxisomal beta-oxidation system, exhibit profound spontaneous peroxisome proliferation, including development of liver tumors, indicative of sustained activation of PPARalpha by the unmetabolized substrates of acyl-CoA oxidase. With the exception of fatty acyl-CoA oxidase, all PPARalpha responsive genes including CYP4A1 and CYP4A3 are up-regulated in the livers of these AOX(-/-) mice. Thus, the substrates of acyl-CoA oxidase serve as endogenous ligands for this receptor leading to a receptor-enzyme cross-talk, because acyl-CoA oxidase gene is transcriptionally regulated by PPARalpha. Peroxisome proliferators induce only a transient increase in liver cell proliferation and this may serve as an additional contributory factor, rather than play a primary role in liver tumor development. Thus, sustained activation of PPARalpha by either synthetic or natural ligands leads to reproducible pleiotropic responses culminating in the development of liver tumors. This phenomenon of peroxisome proliferation provides fascinating challenges in exploring the molecular mechanisms of cell specific transcription, and in identifying the PPARalpha responsive target genes, as well as events involved in their regulation. Genetically altered animals and cell lines should enable investigations on the role of H(2)O(2)-producing enzymes in neoplastic conversion.

Contrasting molecular composition and channel properties of AMPA receptors on chick auditory and brainstem motor neurons

1. Neurons in the brainstem auditory pathway exhibit a number of specializations for transmitting signals reliably at high rates, notably synaptic AMPA receptors with very rapid kinetics. Previous work has not revealed a common structural pattern shared by the AMPA receptors of auditory neurons that could account for their distinct functional properties. 2. We have used whole-cell patch-clamp recordings, mRNA analysis, immunofluorescence, Western blots and agonist-evoked cobalt uptake to compare AMPA receptors on the first-, second- and third-order neurons in the chick ascending auditory pathway with those on brainstem motor neurons of the glossopharyngeal/vagal nucleus, which have been shown to have very slow desensitization kinetics. 3. The results indicate that the AMPA receptors of the cochlear ganglion, nucleus magnocellularis and nucleus laminaris share a number of structural and functional properties that distinguish them from the AMPA receptors of brainstem motor neurons, namely a lower relative abundance of glutamate receptor (GluR)2 transcript and much lower levels of GluR2 immunoreactivity, higher relative levels of GluR3 flop and GluR4 flop, lower relative abundance of the C-terminal splice variants GluR4c and 4d, less R/G editing of GluR2 and 3, greater permeability to calcium, predominantly inwardly rectifying I-V relationships, and greater susceptibility to block by Joro spider toxin. 4. We conclude that the AMPA receptors of auditory neurons acquire rapid kinetics from their high content of GluR3 flop and GluR4 flop subunits and their high permeability to Ca2+ from selective post-transcriptional suppression of GluR2 expression.

Analysis of chromosomal aberration frequencies in the peripheral blood lymphocytes of smokers exposed to uranyl compounds

One hundred fifteen smokers working in a nuclear fuel manufacturing facility were analysed for various types of chromosomal aberrations. They experienced exposure for a period of 1-25 years. Their age ranges from 23 to 52 years. A total of 94 smokers and 118 non-smokers who were not exposed to uranyl compounds or to any other known mutagens and belong to the same age group formed the control subjects. The results showed that there is a significant increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations in the exposed smokers when compared to the control smokers. In the control group, the smokers showed a high frequency of chromosomal aberrations when compared to non-smokers suggesting clastogenic effect of smoking. Chromosomal aberrations observed in the exposed smokers could be due to the cumulative effect of both smoking and exposure to uranyl compounds.

Motoneuron differentiation of immortalized human spinal cord cell lines

Human motoneuron cell lines will be valuable tools for spinal cord research and drug discovery. To create such cell lines, we immortalized NCAM(+)/neurofilament(+) precursors from human embryonic spinal cord with a tetracycline repressible v-myc oncogene. Clonal NCAM(+)/neurofilament(+) cell lines differentiated exclusively into neurons within 1 week. These neurons displayed extensive processes, exhibited immunoreactivity for mature neuron-specific markers such as tau and synaptophysin, and fired action potentials upon current injection. Moreover, a clonal precursor cell line gave rise to multiple types of spinal cord neurons, including ChAT(+)/Lhx3(+)/Lhx4(+) motoneurons and GABA(+) interneurons. These neuronal restricted precursor cell lines will expedite the elucidation of molecular mechanisms that regulate the differentiation, maturation and survival of specific subsets of spinal cord neurons, and the identification and validation of novel drug targets for motoneuron diseases and spinal cord injury.

Characterization of the AMPA-activated receptors present on motoneurons

Motoneurons have been shown to be particularly sensitive to Ca2+-dependent glutamate excitotoxicity, mediated via AMPA receptors (AMPARs). To determine the molecular basis for this susceptibility we have used immunocytochemistry, RT-PCR, and electrophysiology to profile AMPARs on embryonic day 14.5 rat motoneurons. Motoneurons show detectable AMPAR-mediated calcium permeability in vitro and in vivo as determined by cobalt uptake and electrophysiology. Motoneurons express all four AMPAR subunit mRNAs, with glutamate receptor (GluR) 2 being the most abundant (63.9+/-4.8%). GluR2 is present almost exclusively in the edited form, and electrophysiology confirms that most AMPARs present are calcium-impermeant. However, the kainate current in motoneurons was blocked an average of 32.0% by Joro spider toxin, indicating that a subset of the AM PARs is Ca2+-permeable. Therefore, heterogeneity of AMPARs, rather than the absence of GluR2 or the presence of unedited GluR2, explains AMPAR-mediated Ca2+ permeability. The relative levels of flip/flop isoforms of each subunit were also examined by semiquantitative PCR. Both isoforms were present, but the relative proportion varied for each subunit, and the flip isoform predominated. Thus, our data show that despite high levels of edited GluR2 mRNA, some AMPARs are Ca2+-permeable, and this subset of AMPARs can account for the AMPAR-mediated Ca2+ inflow inferred from cobalt uptake and electrophysiology studies.

Inhibition of ciprofibrate-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in the rat by dimethylthiourea, a scavenger of hydroxyl radical

DNA damage caused by oxidative stress is considered to play an important role in peroxisome proliferator-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in rats and mice. In this study, we investigated the effect of dimethylthiourea (DMTU), a known hydroxyl radical scavenger, on ciprofibrate-induced hepatocarcinogenesis. Male F-344 rats were fed a diet containing 0.025% ciprofibrate and given daily intraperitoneal injections of DMTU (5 days a week) at a dose of 50 or 250 mg/kg body weight for 60 weeks at which time the study was terminated. Livers from all animals were analyzed grossly and microscopically for incidence, number and type of tumors. All rats given ciprofibrate alone developed altered areas, neoplastic nodules (NN) and hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). Combined administration of ciprofibrate and DMTU resulted in inhibition of tumor development. In the group given higher doses of DMTU the incidence of NN was 100% and HCC 0%. The number of tumors per liver also significantly decreased (p<0.001). At lower dose levels DMTU caused significant reduction in the number of tumors per liver (p<0. 05) and a slight reduction (29%) in the incidence of HCC. The inhibitory effect of DMTU on ciprofibrate-induced hepatocarcinogenesis could be explained by hydroxyl radical scavenging properties of DMTU, resulting in decreased free radical induced DNA damage.

Multipotent and restricted precursors in the central nervous system

Acquisition of cell type-specific properties in the nervous system is likely a process of sequential restriction in developmental potential. At least two classes of pluripotent stem cells, neuroepithelial (NEP) stem cells and EGF-dependent neurosphere stem cells, have been identified in distinct spatial and temporal domains. Pluripotent stem cells likely generate central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) derivatives via the generation of intermediate lineage-restricted precursors that differ from each other and from multipotent stem cells. Neuronal precursors termed neuronal-restricted precursors (NRPs), multiple classes of glial precursors termed glial-restricted precursors (GRPs), oligodendrocyte-type 2 astrocytes (O2As), astrocyte precursor cells (APCs), and PNS precursors termed neural crest stem cells (NCSCs) have been identified. Multipotent stem cells and restricted precursor cells can be isolated from embryonic stem (ES) cell cultures providing a non-fetal source of such cells. Analysis in multiple species illustrates similarities between rat, mouse, and human cell differentiation raising the possibility that similar factors and markers may be used to isolate precursor cells from human tissue or ES cells. Anat Rec (New Anat): 257:137-143, 1999.

Lineage-restricted neural precursors can be isolated from both the mouse neural tube and cultured ES cells

We have previously identified multipotent neuroepithelial (NEP) stem cells and lineage-restricted, self-renewing precursor cells termed NRPs (neuron-restricted precursors) and GRPs (glial-restricted precursors) present in the developing rat spinal cord (A. Kalyani, K. Hobson, and M. S. Rao, 1997, Dev. Biol. 186, 202-223; M. S. Rao and M. Mayer-Proschel, 1997, Dev. Biol. 188, 48-63; M. Mayer-Proschel, A. J. Kalyani, T. Mujtaba, and M. S. Rao, 1997, Neuron 19, 773-785). We now show that cells identical to rat NEPs, NRPs, and GRPs are present in mouse neural tubes and that immunoselection against cell surface markers E-NCAM and A2B5 can be used to isolate NRPs and GRPs, respectively. Restricted precursors similar to NRPs and GRPs can also be isolated from mouse embryonic stem cells (ES cells). ES cell-derived NRPs are E-NCAM immunoreactive, undergo self-renewal in defined medium, and differentiate into multiple neuronal phenotypes in mass culture. ES cells also generate A2B5-immunoreactive cells that are similar to E9 NEP-cell-derived GRPs and can differentiate into oligodendrocytes and astrocytes. Thus, lineage restricted precursors can be generated in vitro from cultured ES cells and these restricted precursors resemble those derived from mouse neural tubes. These results demonstrate the utility of using ES cells as a source of late embryonic precursor cells.

Amplification and overexpression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor binding protein (PBP/PPARBP) gene in breast cancer

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor binding protein (PBP), a nuclear receptor coactivator, interacts with estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) in the absence of estrogen. This interaction was enhanced in the presence of estrogen but was reduced in the presence of antiestrogen, tamoxifen. Transfection of PBP in CV-1 cells resulted in enhancement of estrogen-dependent transcription, indicating that PBP serves as a coactivator in ER signaling. To examine whether overexpression of PBP plays a role in breast cancer because of its coactivator function in ER signaling, we determined the levels of PBP expression in breast tumors. High levels of PBP expression were detected in approximately 50% of primary breast cancers and breast cancer cell lines by ribonuclease protection analysis, in situ hybridization, and immunoperoxidase staining. Fluorescence in situ hybridization of human chromosomes revealed that the PBP gene is located on chromosome 17q12, a region that is amplified in some breast cancers. We found PBP gene amplification in approximately 24% (6/25) of breast tumors and approximately 30% (2/6) of breast cancer cell lines, implying that PBP gene overexpression can occur independent of gene amplification. This gene comprises 17 exons that, together, span >37 kilobases. The 5'-flanking region of 2.5 kilobase pairs inserted into a luciferase reporter vector revealed that the promoter activity in CV-1 cells increased by deletion of nucleotides from -2,500 to -273. The -273 to +1 region, which exhibited high promoter activity, contains a typical CCAT box and multiple cis-elements such as C/EBPbeta, YY1, c-Ets-1, AP1, AP2, and NFkappaB binding sites. These observations, in particular PBP gene amplification, suggest that PBP, by its ability to function as ERalpha coactivator, might play a role in mammary epithelial differentiation and in breast carcinogenesis.

Revisiting catalysis by chymotrypsin family serine proteases using peptide substrates and inhibitors with unnatural main chains

Chymotrypsin family serine proteases play essential roles in key biological and pathological processes and are frequently targets of drug discovery efforts. This large enzyme family is also among the most advanced model systems for detailed studies of enzyme mechanism and structure/function relationships. Productive interactions between these enzymes and their substrates are widely believed to mimic the "canonical" interactions between serine proteases and "standard" inhibitors observed in numerous protease-inhibitor complexes. To test this central hypothesis we have synthesized and characterized a series of peptide analogs, based on model substrates and inhibitors of trypsin, that contain unnatural main chains. These results call into question a long accepted theory regarding the interaction of chymotrypsin family serine proteases with substrates and suggest that the canonical interactions observed between these enzymes and standard inhibitors may represent nonproductive rather than productive, substrate-like interactions.

Multipotent and restricted precursors in the central nervous system

Acquisition of cell type-specific properties in the nervous system is likely a process of sequential restriction in developmental potential. At least two classes of pluripotent stem cells, neuroepithelial (NEP) stem cells and EGF-dependent neurosphere stem cells, have been identified in distinct spatial and temporal domains. Pluripotent stem cells likely generate central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS) derivatives via the generation of intermediate lineage-restricted precursors that differ from each other and from multipotent stem cells. Neuronal precursors termed neuronal-restricted precursors (NRPs), multiple classes of glial precursors termed glial-restricted precursors (GRPs), oligodendrocyte-type 2 astrocytes (O2As), astrocyte precursor cells (APCs), and PNS precursors termed neural crest stem cells (NCSCs) have been identified. Multipotent stem cells and restricted precursor cells can be isolated from embryonic stem (ES) cell cultures providing a non-fetal source of such cells. Analysis in multiple species illustrates similarities between rat, mouse, and human cell differentiation raising the possibility that similar factors and markers may be used to isolate precursor cells from human tissue or ES cells. Anat Rec (New Anat): 257:137-143, 1999.

A new neural network architecture with associative memory, pruning and order-sensitive learning

A new paradigm of neural network architecture is proposed that works as associative memory along with capabilities of pruning and order-sensitive learning. The network has a composite structure wherein each node of the network is a Hopfield network by itself. The Hopfield network employs an order-sensitive learning technique and converges to user-specified stable states without having any spurious states. This is based on geometrical structure of the network and of the energy function. The network is so designed that it allows pruning in binary order as it progressively carries out associative memory retrieval. The capacity of the network is 2n, where n is the number of basic nodes in the network. The capabilities of the network are demonstrated by experimenting on three different application areas, namely a Library Database, a Protein Structure Database and Natural Language Understanding.

Cell lineage in the developing neural tube

Acquisition of cell type specific properties in the spinal cord is a process of sequential restriction in developmental potential. A multipotent stem cell of the nervous system, the neuroepithelial cell, generates central nervous system and peripheral nervous system derivatives via the generation of intermediate lineage restricted precursors that differ from each other and from neuroepithelial cells. Intermediate lineage restricted neuronal and glial precursors termed neuronal restricted precursors and glial restricted precursors, respectively, have been identified. Differentiation is influenced by extrinsic environmental signals that are stage and cell type specific. Analysis in multiple species illustrates similarities between chick, rat, mouse, and human cell differentiation. The utility of obtaining these precursor cell types for gene discovery, drug screening, and therapeutic applications is discussed.

Peroxisomal and mitochondrial fatty acid beta-oxidation in mice nullizygous for both peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha and peroxisomal fatty acyl-CoA oxidase. Genotype correlation with fatty liver phenotype

Fatty acid beta-oxidation occurs in both mitochondria and peroxisomes. Long chain fatty acids are also metabolized by the cytochrome P450 CYP4A omega-oxidation enzymes to toxic dicarboxylic acids (DCAs) that serve as substrates for peroxisomal beta-oxidation. Synthetic peroxisome proliferators interact with peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARalpha) to transcriptionally activate genes that participate in peroxisomal, microsomal, and mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation. Mice lacking PPARalpha (PPARalpha-/-) fail to respond to the inductive effects of peroxisome proliferators, whereas those lacking fatty acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX-/-), the first enzyme of the peroxisomal beta-oxidation system, exhibit extensive microvesicular steatohepatitis, leading to hepatocellular regeneration and massive peroxisome proliferation, implying sustained activation of PPARalpha by natural ligands. We now report that mice nullizygous for both PPARalpha and AOX (PPARalpha-/- AOX-/-) failed to exhibit spontaneous peroxisome proliferation and induction of PPARalpha-regulated genes by biological ligands unmetabolized in the absence of AOX. In AOX-/- mice, the hyperactivity of PPARalpha enhances the severity of steatosis by inducing CYP4A family proteins that generate DCAs and since they are not metabolized in the absence of peroxisomal beta-oxidation, they damage mitochondria leading to steatosis. Blunting of microvesicular steatosis, which is restricted to few liver cells in periportal regions in PPARalpha-/- AOX-/- mice, suggests a role for PPARalpha-induced genes, especially members of CYP4A family, in determining the severity of steatosis in livers with defective peroxisomal beta-oxidation. In age-matched PPARalpha-/- mice, a decrease in constitutive mitochondrial beta-oxidation with intact constitutive peroxisomal beta-oxidation system contributes to large droplet fatty change that is restricted to centrilobular hepatocytes. These data define a critical role for both PPARalpha and AOX in hepatic lipid metabolism and in the pathogenesis of specific fatty liver phenotype.

Effect of granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor on hepatitis-B vaccination in haemodialysis patients

OBJECTIVES

Haemodialysis patients often fail to respond to hepatitis B vaccination. There are various agents that can be used as vaccine adjuvant in chronic renal failure patients on haemodialysis. In this study, the adjuvant effect of granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GMCSF) is compared with that of control subjects.

METHODS

In this study, eight patients were started on 150 mcg of GMCSF subcutaneously 24 hours prior to intramuscular hepatitis B vaccination (20 mcg of genetically engineered vaccine at the same site). The antibody response to surface antigen (anti HBsAg) in these patients were compared with those of eight control subjects who received standard three doses of monthly 40 mcg of same hepatitis B vaccine.

RESULTS

In the control study, only two patients developed significant antibody response to surface antigen whereas seven of eight patients in GMCSF group developed significant antibody titres (> 10 IU/L). The sero-protection rate was 87.5% in GMCSF group and 25% in control group.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that GMCSF offers significantly better seroprotection against hepatitis B compared to standard dose of vaccination in patients with chronic renal failure on haemodialysis.

Absence of spontaneous peroxisome proliferation in enoyl-CoA Hydratase/L-3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase-deficient mouse liver. Further support for the role of fatty acyl CoA oxidase in PPARalpha ligand metabolism

Peroxisomes contain a classical L-hydroxy-specific peroxisome proliferator-inducible beta-oxidation system and also a second noninducible D-hydroxy-specific beta-oxidation system. We previously generated mice lacking fatty acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX), the first enzyme of the L-hydroxy-specific classical beta-oxidation system; these AOX-/- mice exhibited sustained activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARalpha), resulting in profound spontaneous peroxisome proliferation in liver cells. These observations implied that AOX is responsible for the metabolic degradation of PPARalpha ligands. In this study, the function of enoyl-CoA hydratase/L-3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (L-PBE), the second enzyme of this peroxisomal beta-oxidation system, was investigated by disrupting its gene. Mutant mice (L-PBE-/-) were viable and fertile and exhibited no detectable gross phenotypic defects. L-PBE-/- mice showed no hepatic steatosis and manifested no spontaneous peroxisome proliferation, unlike that encountered in livers of mice deficient in AOX. These results indicate that disruption of classical peroxisomal fatty acid beta-oxidation system distal to AOX step does not interfere with the inactivation of endogenous ligands of PPARalpha, further confirming that the AOX gene is indispensable for the physiological regulation of this receptor. The absence of appreciable changes in lipid metabolism also indicates that enoyl-CoAs, generated in the classical system in L-PBE-/- mice are diverted to D-hydroxy-specific system for metabolism by D-PBE. When challenged with a peroxisome proliferator, L-PBE-/- mice showed increases in the levels of hepatic mRNAs and proteins that are regulated by PPARalpha except for appreciable blunting of peroxisome proliferative response as compared with that observed in hepatocytes of wild type mice similarly treated. This blunting of peroxisome proliferative response is attributed to the absence of L-PBE protein in L-PBE-/- mouse liver, because all other proteins are induced essentially to the same extent in both wild type and L-PBE-/- mice.

Prospective observational study of primary angioplasty of the infarct-related artery for acute myocardial infarction

Primary angioplasty has been shown to reduce rates of in-hospital mortality, recurrent ischaemia and infarction. However, the role of primary stenting and abciximab is presently undergoing evaluation. This study attempted to examine the feasibility, safety and outcomes of primary angioplasty in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction. Data in 100 patients who underwent primary angioplasty for evolving acute myocardial infarction was prospectively analysed to assess the safety and efficacy of various modalities. Twenty patients were in Killip class III and above. Multivessel (2 or more vessels) disease was noted in more than 52 cases. Procedural success was 99 percent; 86 patients received primary stenting, majority of them had Kalam-Raju stent implantation. Adjunct treatment included abciximab infusion in 22 and intra-aortic balloon pump support in 12. Overall mortality rate was six percent with a mortality of 2.2 percent in non-cardiogenic shock patients. Recurrent ischaemic events were noted in five, three of them had successful reperfusion with repeat angioplasty. None of the patients had emergency coronary artery bypass surgery. It is concluded that primary angioplasty is safe and effective with high procedural success. Recurrent ischaemic events are low, possibly due to routine use of stenting and selective use of abciximab.

Mouse steroid receptor coactivator-1 is not essential for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha-regulated gene expression

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-dependent transcription factors, and it is assumed that the biological effects of these receptors depend on interactions with recently identified coactivators, including steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1). We assessed the in vivo function of SRC-1 on the PPARalpha-regulated gene expression in liver by generating mice in which the SRC-1 gene was inactivated by gene targeting. The homozygous (SRC-1(-/-)) mice were viable and fertile and exhibited no detectable gross phenotypic defects. When challenged with a PPARalpha ligand, such as ciprofibrate or Wy-14,643, the SRC-1(-/-) mice displayed typical pleiotropic responses, including hepatomegaly, peroxisome proliferation in hepatocytes, and increased mRNA and protein levels of genes that are regulated by PPARalpha. These alterations were indistinguishable from those exhibited by SRC-1(+/+) wild-type mice fed either ciprofibrate- or Wy-14, 643-containing diets. These results indicate that SRC-1 is not essential for PPARalpha-mediated transcriptional activation in vivo and suggest redundancy in nuclear receptor coactivators.

Expression of EGF receptor and FGF receptor isoforms during neuroepithelial stem cell differentiation

To characterize the role of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) in regulating neuroepithelial stem cells differentiation, we have examined the expression of FGF, EGF, and their receptors by neuroepithelial (NEP) cells and their derivatives. Our results indicate that undifferentiated NEP cells express a subset of FGF receptor (FGFR) isoforms, but do not express platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRs) or epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The FGFR pattern of expression by differentiated neuron and glial cells differs from that found on NEP stem cells. FGFR-4 is uniquely expressed on NEP cells, while FGFR-1 is expressed by both NEP cells and neurons, and FGFR-2 is down-regulated during neuronal differentiation. FGFRs present on astrocytes and oligodendrocytes also represent a subset of those present on NEP cells. Expression of FGF and EGF by NEP cells and their progeny was also examined. NEP cells synthesize detectable levels of both FGF-1 and FGF-2, and EGF. FGF-1 and FGF-2 synthesis is likely to be biologically relevant, as cells grown at high density do not require exogenous FGF for their survival and cells grown in the presence of neutralizing antibodies to FGF show a reduction in cell survival and division. Thus, neuroepithelial cells synthesize and respond to FGF, but not to EGF, and are therefore distinct from other neural stem cells (neurospheres). The unique pattern of expression of FGF isoforms may serve to distinguish NEP cells from their more differentiated progeny.

Modelling of factor Xa-inhibitor complexes: a computational flexible docking approach

In order to understand the structural basis of Factor Xa (FXa) specificity, structural complexes of FXa with its synthetic inhibitors are determined using a computational docking approach. The AutoDock suite of programs is used to determine the binding modes of the synthetic inhibitors such as 3- and 4-amidinobenzylphenyl ether (ABP), amidinophenyl pyruvic acid (APPA), diamidinobenzofuranyl ethene (DABE), and DX-9065a 2-(5'-amidino-2'-benzofuranyl)-3-(7'amidino-2'-napthyl)-propionic acid (ABAP) to FXa. The synthetic inhibitors docked in the present study are different in size, nature of linkage, and properties. Two sets of simulations were carried out for synthetic inhibitors docking to FXa. In the first set of simulations, no explicit water molecules were included. In the second set of simulations two explicit solvent molecules were considered. In all the computationally predicted synthetic inhibitor complexes of FXa, the specificity pocket residue Asp-189 is involved in hydrogen bonding with the bound inhibitor. The active site water molecule WAT522 is involved in hydrogen bonding with all the bound inhibitors. The computed energies clearly discriminate the high affinity from low affinity binders.

Ciliated hepatic foregut cyst mimicking neoplasm

We describe a ciliated hepatic foregut cyst that was clinically considered neoplastic because it was large, bilocular, and associated with a high serological level of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA 19-9). Histologically, the wall of the cyst showed characteristic pseudopapillae lined by ciliated stratified columnar epithelium with interspersed goblet cells and underlying smooth muscle. The epithelium was strongly immunoreactive for CA 19-9. We therefore conclude that large size, multilocularity, and elevated CA 19-9 do not exclude ciliated hepatic foregut cysts from diagnostic consideration.

Molecular analysis of AMPA-specific receptors: subunit composition, editing, and calcium influx determination in small amounts of tissue

Glutamate activates three distinct classes of ionotropic receptors: AMPA, kainate and NMDA. AMPA receptors (AMPARs) are of particular importance as they mediate the majority of fast excitatory synaptic transmission and are implicated in a variety of neurological disorders [B. Bettler, C. Mulle, AMPA and kainate receptors, Neuropharmacology 34 (1995) 123-139]. Functional AMPARs are believed to be a heteromer comprising a combination of four closely related subunits, GluRs1-4 [B. Bettler, C. Mulle, AMPA and kainate receptors, Neuropharmacology 34 (1995) 123-139]. Diversity of AMPARs is obtained through multiple combinations of AMPAR subunits, by alternative splicing of subunits at the flip/flop and/or C-terminal sites, and by mRNA editing of a single amino acid at multiple sites [M. Hollmann, M. Hartley, S. Heinemann, Ca2+ permeability of KA-AMPA-gated glutamate receptor channel depends on subunit composition, Science 252 (1991) 851-853; B. Sommer, K. Keinanen, T.A. Verdoorn, W. Wisden, N. Burhashev, A. Herb, M. Kohler, T. Takagi, B. Sakmann, P.H. Seeburg, Flip and flop: a cell-specific functional switch in glutamate-operated channels in the CNS, Science 249 (1990) 1580-1585; B. Sommer, M. Kohler, R. Sprengel, P.H. Seeburg, RNA editing in brain controls a determinant of ion flow in glutamate-gated channels, Cell 67 (1991)]. The subunit combination, editing status, and splice variant expression have profound effects on channel kinetics and can serve as predictors of the channel's properties [M. Hollmann, M. Hartley, S. Heinemann, Ca2+ permeability of KA-AMPA-gated glutamate receptor channel depends on subunit composition, Science 252 (1991) 851-853; B. Sommer, K. Keinanen, T.A. Verdoorn, W. Wisden, N. Burhashev, A. Herb, M. Kohler, T. Takagi, B. Sakmann, P.H. Seeburg, Flip and flop: a cell-specific functional switch in glutamate-operated channels in the CNS, Science 249 (1990) 1580-1585; B. Sommer, M. Kohler, R. Sprengel, P.H. Seeburg, RNA editing in brain controls a determinant of ion flow in glutamate-gated channels, Cell 67 (1991)]. In this manuscript, we detail procedures for profiling AMPAR composition, namely: relative subunit ratios, expression of flip/flop isoforms, Q/R and R/G editing status, and Ca2+ permeability using small amounts of cDNA from identified cell populations.

Spinal cord neuronal precursors generate multiple neuronal phenotypes in culture

Neuronal restricted precursors (NRPs) () can generate multiple neurotransmitter phenotypes during maturation in culture. Undifferentiated E-NCAM+ (embryonic neural cell adhesion molecule) immunoreactive NRPs are mitotically active and electrically immature, and they express only a subset of neuronal markers. Fully mature cells are postmitotic, process-bearing cells that are neurofilament-M and synaptophysin immunoreactive, and they synthesize and respond to different subsets of neurotransmitter molecules. Mature neurons that synthesize and respond to glycine, glutamate, GABA, dopamine, and acetylcholine can be identified by immunocytochemistry, RT-PCR, and calcium imaging in mass cultures. Individual NRPs also generate heterogeneous progeny as assessed by neurotransmitter response and synthesis, demonstrating the multipotent nature of the precursor cells. Differentiation can be modulated by sonic hedgehog (Shh) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-2/4 molecules. Shh acts as a mitogen and inhibits differentiation (including cholinergic differentiation). BMP-2 and BMP-4, in contrast, inhibit cell division and promote differentiation (including cholinergic differentiation). Thus, a single neuronal precursor cell can differentiate into multiple classes of neurons, and this differentiation can be modulated by environmental signals.

A revised structure for crotaramosmin from crotolaria ramosissima

The structure of crotaramosmin has been reassigned to 1-(5-hydroxy-2, 2-dimethyl-2H-chromen-6-yl)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-propanone (1) as determined by extensive NMR investigation.

Differential expression of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) and its coactivators steroid receptor coactivator-1 and PPAR-binding protein PBP in the brown fat, urinary bladder, colon, and breast of the mouse

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) regulate genes involved in lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation. Steroid receptor coactivator-1 (SRC-1) and PPAR-binding protein (PBP) interact with PPARgamma and act as coactivators to enhance ligand-dependent transcription. We report here that PPARgamma, SRC-1, and PBP are differentially expressed in the brown fat, transitional epithelium of the urinary bladder, colonic mucosa, and mammary epithelium of the adult mouse. PPARgamma and PBP are expressed in the transitional epithelium of urinary bladder and in brown adipose tissue, but not SRC-1. In the colonic mucosa, PPARgamma expression occurs throughout the villi, whereas the expression of both SRC-1 and PBP is confined mostly to the crypts. The expression of both SRC-1 and PBP is prominent in the breast epithelium of nonpregnant, pregnant, and lactating mice, whereas PPARgamma expression appeared prominent during lactation. During early embryonic development, PPARgamma, SRC-1, and PBP are differentially expressed, with only limited cell types displaying overlapping expression. PPARgamma and PBP expression overlapped in the brown fat and urogenital sinus at stage E15.5 of embryogenesis, whereas SRC-1 expression occurred mostly in neuroepithelium and cartilage between stages E9.5 and E13.5 of embryogenesis.

A common neural progenitor for the CNS and PNS

Cultured spinal cord neuroepithelial (NEP) cells can differentiate into neurons, oligodendrocytes and astrocytes and are morphologically and antigenically distinct from neural crest stem cells (NCSCs) that generate the PNS. NEP cells, however, can generate p75/nestin-immunoreactive cells that are morphologically and antigenically similar to previously characterized NCSCs. NEP-derived p75-immunoreactive cells differentiate into peripheral neurons, smooth muscle, and Schwann cells in mass and clonal culture. Clonal analysis of NEP cells demonstrates that a common NEP progenitor cell generated both CNS and PNS phenotypes. Differentiation into NCSCs was promoted by BMP-2/4 and differentiation did not require cells to divide, indicating that BMP played an instructive role in the differentiation process. Thus, individual NEP cells are multipotent and can differentiate into most major types of cell in the CNS and PNS and that PNS differentiation involves a transition from a NEP stem to another more limited, p75-immunoreactive, neural crest stem cell.

Steatohepatitis, spontaneous peroxisome proliferation and liver tumors in mice lacking peroxisomal fatty acyl-CoA oxidase. Implications for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha natural ligand metabolism

Peroxisomal beta-oxidation system consists of four consecutive reactions to preferentially metabolize very long chain fatty acids. The first step of this system, catalyzed by acyl-CoA oxidase (AOX), converts fatty acyl-CoA to 2-trans-enoyl-CoA. Herein, we show that mice deficient in AOX exhibit steatohepatitis, increased hepatic H2O2 levels, and hepatocellular regeneration, leading to a complete reversal of fatty change by 6 to 8 months of age. The liver of AOX-/- mice with regenerated hepatocytes displays profound generalized spontaneous peroxisome proliferation and increased mRNA levels of genes that are regulated by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARalpha). Hepatic adenomas and carcinomas develop in AOX-/- mice by 15 months of age due to sustained activation of PPARalpha. These observations implicate acyl-CoA and other putative substrates for AOX, as biological ligands for PPARalpha; thus, a normal AOX gene is indispensable for the physiological regulation of PPARalpha.

Comparison of two film holders for periapical radiography performed by dental students

A clinical study was done at Howard University, College of Dentistry, to compare the difference in the incidence of radiographic technique faults between two similar intraoral film-holding, beam-aligning, devices in a series of 1,248 radiographs. The primary difference between a conventional Extension Cone Paralleling (XCP-I) film holder and a modified, all-metal, Extension Cone Paralleling (XCP-II) film holder is the incorporation of a collimated rectangular x-ray-beam-restricting plate. This latter film holder possessed an indicator rod attached to the bite block and a metal shield to reduce primary and back-scattered radiation behind the film. In the oral diagnosis clinic, 78 dentulous patients were randomly selected and randomly divided into two groups of 39 patients. One of the two film holders was used separately for the two groups of patients, and a full mouth series of 16 periapical radiographs were made for each patient. The difference in the occurrence of total errors between the two instruments was not statistically significant. However, the conventional instrument was associated with significantly more errors in improper film positioning, while the modified device had significantly more errors in cone cutting (p < 0.01).

A tripotential glial precursor cell is present in the developing spinal cord

We have isolated a tripotential glial precursor cell population from spinal cords of E13.5 rats. In vitro, these A2B5+E-NCAM- glial-restricted precursor (GRP) cells can undergo extensive self-renewal, and can differentiate into oligodendrocytes and two distinct astrocyte populations, but do not differentiate into neurons. The differentiation potential of GRP cells is retained through at least three cycles of expansion and recloning. Unlike oligodendrocyte-type 2 astrocyte progenitor cells, freshly isolated GRP cells do not respond to platelet-derived growth factor as a mitogen or survival factor, nor do GRP cells differentiate into oligodendrocytes--or even survive--when plated in mitogen-free chemically defined medium. Exposure to fetal calf serum induces GRP cells to differentiate into A2B5- fibroblast-like astrocytes, whereas growth in the presence of basic fibroblast growth factor and ciliary neurotrophic factor induces the generation of A2B5+ process-bearing astrocytes. The early appearance of GRP cells during spinal cord development suggests that they may represent the earliest GRP cell population.

Sex differences in dehydroepiandrosterone-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in the rat

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a steroid secreted by the adrenal gland, is a peroxisome proliferator and a hepatocarcinogen. Previously, we have shown that 15-week-old male rats given DHEA in AIN-76 diet without vitamin E developed liver tumors. In the present study, we have examined the carcinogenic effect of DHEA in 5-6-week-old male rats and in intact and ovariectomized female rats. Rats were fed Purina chow containing DHEA at a concentration of 0.45% for 100 weeks and livers were evaluated for tumor incidence and multiplicity. In male rats the incidence of total tumors and hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) was 94 and 81%, respectively, with 1.9 +/- 0.3 (mean +/- SD) tumors per liver. In intact and ovariectomized females the total tumor incidence was 46 and 60%, respectively. However, the incidence of HCC and the mean number of tumors were similar in both intact and ovariectomized groups. Phenotypically the neoplastic nodules and HCC in female rats were negative for gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase. The results of these studies further confirm that DHEA is a hepatocarcinogen in male and female rats. The possible reasons for the decreased incidence of liver tumors in females in relation to the peroxisome proliferative effect of DHEA is discussed.

Recurrent pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle with subcutaneous herniation into the chest wall. A case report

Pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle is rare, and recurrence is extremely rare. We report the case of a 62-year-old man who presented at our hospital with a painless pulsatile swelling in the left breast. He had undergone coronary artery bypass grafting and left-ventricular aneurysmectomy 14 years earlier. On investigation, the swelling was diagnosed to be a pseudoaneurysm of the left ventricle with subcutaneous herniation. The extreme rarity of this condition prompted us to report the case. The investigative techniques and the surgical strategy are discussed.