APS, an adaptor protein containing Pleckstrin homology (PH) and Src homology-2 (SH2) domains inhibits the JAK-STAT pathway in collaboration with c-Cbl

We cloned a novel adaptor protein, APS (adaptor molecule containing Pleckstrin homology (PH) and Src Homology-2 (SH2) domains), which was tyrosine phosphorylated in response to c-kit or B cell receptor stimulation. Here, we report that APS was tyrosine phosphorylated by Janus kinase-2 (JAK2) at its C-terminal tyrosine residue and interacted with c-Cbl. Forced expression of APS in an erythropoietin (EPO)-dependent hematopoietic cell line resulted in reduced activation of STAT5 but not cell proliferation in response to EPO. APS bound to the phosphorylated tyrosine residue, Y343 of the erythropoietin receptor cytoplasmic domain. Co-expression of APS and c-Cbl, but not expression of either alone inhibited EPO-dependent STAT5 activation in 293 cells. This required the C-terminal phosphorylation site, as well as PH and SH2 domains of APS. Therefore, one of the major functions of APS is in recruitment of c-Cbl into the receptor/JAK complex, thereby inhibiting JAK signaling activity.

Bone tumors in the pelvis presenting growth during pregnancy

Among 56 cases of a giant cell tumor of bone (GCT) and 52 cases of chondrosarcoma (CSA) in our series, four patients were discovered to have a tumor in the pelvic bone that grew in size during pregnancy. These four rare cases are described here. They include three cases of a GCT in the sacrum and one case of a CSA in the innominate bone. The dextran-coated charcoal assay and immunohistochemical techniques demonstrated the independence of these tumors from hormonal regulation despite the growth stimulated during pregnancy. It was concluded that the delay in detection of these tumors in the pelvis was just related to the opportunity afforded for unexpected growth during pregnancy. Surgical management was difficult due to the delay in tumor detection. The initial complaints such as pain, discomfort, or numbness around the pelvis were misinterpreted as symptoms of pregnancy. It should be kept in mind that during pregnancy, any pain or numbness in the pelvic region could be the direct result of a tumor in the pelvic bone.

APS, an adaptor protein containing PH and SH2 domains, is associated with the PDGF receptor and c-Cbl and inhibits PDGF-induced mitogenesis

Previously we cloned a novel adaptor protein, APS (adaptor molecules containing PH and SH2 domains) which was tyrosine phosphorylated in response to c-kit or B cell receptor stimulation. Here we report that APS was expressed in some human osteosarcoma cell lines, markedly so in SaOS-2 cells, and was tyrosine-phosphorylated in response to several growth factors, including platelet derived growth factor (PDGF), insulin-like growth factor (IGF), and granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF). Ectopic expression of the wild type APS, but not C-terminal truncated APS, in NIH3T3 fibroblasts suppressed PDGF-induced MAP kinase (Erk2) activation, c-fos and c-myc induction as well as cell proliferation. In vitro binding experiments suggest that APS bound to the beta type PDGF receptor, mainly via phosphotyrosine 1021 (pY1021). Indeed, tyrosine phosphorylation of PLC-gamma, which has been demonstrated to bind to pY1021, but not that of PI3 kinase and associated proteins, was reduced in APS transformants. PDGF induced phosphorylation of the tyrosine residue of APS close to the C-terminal end. In vitro and in vivo binding experiments indicate that the tyrosine phosphorylated C-terminal region of APS bound to c-Cbl, which has been shown to be a negative regulator of tyrosine kinases. Since coexpression of c-Cbl with wild type APS, but not C-terminal truncated APS, synergistically inhibited PDGF-induced c-fos promoter activation, c-Cbl could be a mechanism of inhibitory action of APS on PDGF receptor signaling.

Detection of SYT-SSX fusion transcripts in synovial sarcoma by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction using archival paraffin-embedded tissues

The reciprocal translocation t(X;18)(p11;q11) is known to be highly characteristic of synovial sarcoma, and its consequence, an SYT-SSX fusion gene, is expected to be a diagnostic molecular marker. In this study, we conducted a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction-based assay to detect the SYT-SSX fusion gene transcripts using archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor specimens from a series of 32 synovial sarcoma cases including 6 tumors found in unusual anatomical sites. The SYT-SSX fusion transcripts could be detected in 30 of 32 paraffin-embedded specimens (94%). A subsequent sequence analysis using the polymerase chain reaction products confirmed that the detected messages were derived from either the SYT-SSX1 (22 cases) or SYT-SSX2 (8 cases) fusion gene. Of 23 SYT-SSX-positive monophasic tumors, 16 tumors had an SYT-SSX1 fusion transcript. Fusion transcripts were detectable in all the 7 biphasic tumors analysed, one of which had an SYT-SSX2 fusion transcript. All of the six tumors at unusual locations (lung; 3, metastasis to the abdominal cavity from a tumor of retroperitoneal origin; 1, sacral region; 1, iliopsoas muscle; 1) contained detectable messages. Our results indicate that this molecular assay can be applied to archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissues as a feasible and reliable molecular technique for the diagnosis of synovial sarcoma.

CIS3 and JAB have different regulatory roles in interleukin-6 mediated differentiation and STAT3 activation in M1 leukemia cells

We have reported JAK-signaling modulators, CIS1 (cytokine-inducible SH2 protein-1), CIS3 and JAB (JAK2 binding protein), which are structurally related. In M1 myeloid leukemia cells, CIS3 was induced by neither interleukin 6 (IL6) nor interferon gamma (IFNgamma), while JAB was induced strongly by IFNgamma and slightly by IL6 and leukemia inhibitory factor (ILF). Forced expression of CIS3 and JAB in M1 cells prevented IL6- or LIF-induced growth arrest and differentiation, even when their expression levels were comparable to endogenous ones in several cell lines such as HEL, UT-7, IFNgamma-treated M1, and CTLL2 cells. Pretreatment of parental M1 cells with IFNgamma but not IFNbeta resulted in suppression of LIF-induced STAT3 activation and differentiation, further supporting that physiological level of JAB is sufficient to inhibit LIF-signaling. However, unlike JAB, CIS3 did not inhibit IFNgamma-induced growth arrest, suggesting a difference in cytokine specificity between CIS3 and JAB. CIS3 inhibited STAT3 activation with slower kinetics than JAB and allowed rapid c-fos induction and partial FcgammaRI expression in response to IL6. In 293 cells, CIS3 as well as JAB bound to JAK2 tyrosine kinase domain (JH1), and inhibited its kinase activity, however, the effect of CIS3 on tyrosine kinase activity was weaker than that of JAB, indicating that CIS3 possesses lower affinity to JAK kinases than JAB. These findings suggest that CIS3 is a weaker inhibitor than JAB against JAK signaling, and JAB and CIS3 possess different regulatory roles in cytokine signaling.

Linkage of chondrocyte apoptosis and cartilage degradation in human osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

To examine the occurrence of apoptosis in human osteoarthritis (OA) cartilage, and to determine its relationship to cartilage degradation.

METHODS

Knee cartilage was obtained from subjects at autopsy, from a tissue bank, and from OA patients undergoing total joint replacement surgery. Chondrocytes were isolated and the number of apoptotic cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. Apoptotic cells in cartilage sections were identified by the detection of DNA strand breaks. Electron microscopy was applied to demonstrate morphologic changes, and Safranin O staining was performed to analyze the relationship between apoptosis and proteoglycan depletion.

RESULTS

Flow cytometry on cell suspensions prepared from collagenase digests of cartilage showed that approximately 22.3% of OA chondrocytes and 4.8% of normal chondrocytes were undergoing apoptosis. Staining of cartilage sections demonstrated the presence of apoptotic cells in the superficial and middle zones. Cartilage areas that contained apoptotic cells showed proteoglycan depletion, and the number of apoptotic cells was significantly correlated with the OA grade.

CONCLUSION

These observations demonstrate increased chondrocyte apoptosis in OA cartilage. Chondrocyte apoptosis and proteoglycan depletion are anatomically linked and may be mechanistically related.

IL-6 in a pleomorphic type of malignant fibrous histiocytoma presenting high fever

We describe a rare case of pleomorphic type of malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) in the buttock that presented a systemic involvement. The case was of a 58-year-old woman presenting hepatic dysfunction and inflammatory reactions including fever, positive C-reactive protein (CRP), an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and high levels of platelets and ferritin. The fever of 3 months duration subsided on the first postoperative day. The MFH resection also brought rapid normalization in CRP, platelets, and leukocytes. The local and systemic productions of cytokines induced by this tumor were evaluated. In vivo and in vitro production of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1beta, and tumor necrosis factor alpha by tumor cells were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Blood samples taken preoperatively, tumor tissues, and the primary culture medium showed extraordinarily high IL-6 levels. The plasma IL-6 level was normalized postoperatively. Immunohistochemistry showed the positivity of tumor cells for IL-6. The IL-6 produced by the tumor was concluded to have been responsible for the systemic illness.

Ti/Al multilayer zone plate and Bragg-Fresnel lens

By using a helicon plasma sputtering technique, a one-dimensional Ti/Al multilayer zone plate with an outermost layer width of 76 nm has been successfully fabricated. A Bragg-Fresnel lens has been made by combining this zone plate with a Ge(422) crystal. Comparison of the Ti/Al multilayer zone plate with the Ag/Al zone plate is discussed in terms of focusing efficiency.

Detection of TLS/FUS-CHOP fusion transcripts in myxoid and round cell liposarcomas by nested reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction using archival paraffin-embedded tissues

The reciprocal translocation t(12;16)(q13;p11) has been shown to be highly characteristic of myxoid and round cell subtypes of liposarcoma, and the TLS/FUS-CHOP fusion gene that resulted from the translocation is expected to be a diagnostic molecular marker of these sarcomas. In this study, we conducted a nested reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-based assay to detect the TLS/FUS-CHOP fusion gene transcripts using archival formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor specimens. Of 18 paraffin-embedded specimens from 16 myxoid and round cell liposarcoma cases, the fusion transcripts could be identified in 16 (89%) specimens from 15 (94%) cases. A sequence analysis using the PCR products confirmed that the detected messages were derived from either type I or type II TLS/FUS-CHOP fusion gene, the latter of which was predominant (80%). The results were consistent in primary and recurrent lesions of the same patients and in paraffin-embedded and snap-frozen samples from the same tumors. In two negative specimens, transcripts of the beta-actin gene could not be detected by RT-PCR, and intact mRNA including the fusion messages might have been degraded. No fusion transcripts were detected in snap-frozen or paraffin-embedded material of other types of tumors with myxoid morphology (seven myxoid malignant fibrous histiocytomas and four lipomas with myxoid change). These results indicate that this molecular assay can be applied to formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumor tissues as a diagnostic aid for these subtypes of liposarcoma.

Role of glutathione in cisplatin resistance in osteosarcoma cell lines

This study was designed to examine whether and how glutathione and catalase increase the resistance of osteosarcoma cells to the toxicity of cisplatin. Eight osteosarcoma cell lines were exposed to varying concentrations of cisplatin, and a [3H]thymidine incorporation study then estimated their drug sensitivity. Cells were pretreated with aminotriazole and buthionine sulfoximine to depress catalase and glutathione activities and then entered into the same protocol to assess their sensitivity to cisplatin. Intracytoplasmic levels of catalase and glutathione were measured before and after the treatments. Cisplatin-glutathione conjugates were created to examine how glutathione might depress the toxicity of cisplatin. Although the cell lines differed in the magnitude of their response to cisplatin, there was a statistical correlation between intrinsic glutathione content and cisplatin resistance. Pretreatment with aminotriazole reduced catalase activity by 84% but did not change the sensitivity to cisplatin. Depletion of glutathione activity by 70% increased the sensitivity of the cells to the cytotoxicity of cisplatin. In addition, cisplatin was detoxified following conjugation with glutathione. The increased sensitization to cisplatin toxicity caused by the depletion of glutathione and cisplatin detoxification after the in vitro reaction of glutathione to cisplatin indicated that the formation of the glutathione-cisplatin conjugate was an important mechanism in the cellular resistance to cisplatin. These data also demonstrated that catalase activity did not contribute to resistance to cisplatin and suggested that H2O2-induced oxidative stress did not significantly contribute to the cytotoxicity of cisplatin in osteosarcoma cells.

Cloning and characterization of APS, an adaptor molecule containing PH and SH2 domains that is tyrosine phosphorylated upon B-cell receptor stimulation

Stimulation of B lymphocytes through their antigen receptor (BCR) results in rapid increases in tyrosine phosphorylation of a number of proteins, which leads to a cascade of biochemical changes that initiates B cell proliferation and differentiation or growth inhibition. A novel cDNA, designed APS, encoding an adaptor protein with a Pleckstrin homology (PH) domain, Src homology 2 (SH2) domain, and a tyrosine phosphorylation site was cloned from a B cell cDNA library using a yeast two hybrid system. APS is structurally similar to SH2-B, an SH2 protein that potentially binds to the immunoreceptor tyrosine-based activation motif (ITAM) as well as Lnk which is postulated to be a signal transducer that links T-cell receptor to phospholipase Cgamma, Grb2 and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase. APS expressed only in human Burkitt's lymphoma cells among cell lines we examined and tyrosine phosphorylated in response to BCR stimulation. APS bound to Shc irrespective of stimulation and bound to Grb2 after stimulation, suggesting that it plays a role in linkage from BCR to Shc/Grb2 pathway. These results indicate that APS, SH2-B and Lnk form a new adaptor family that links immune receptors to signaling pathways involved in tyrosine-phosphorylation.

A new protein containing an SH2 domain that inhibits JAK kinases

The proliferation and differentiation of cells of many lineages are regulated by secreted proteins known as cytokines. Cytokines exert their biological effect through binding to cell-surface receptors that are associated with one or more members of the JAK family of cytoplasmic tyrosine kinases. Cytokine-induced receptor dimerization leads to the activation of JAKs, rapid tyrosine-phosphorylation of the cytoplasmic domains, and subsequent recruitment of various signalling proteins, including members of the STAT family of transcription factors, to the receptor complex. Using the yeast two-hybrid system, we have now isolated a new SH2-domain-containing protein, JAB, which is a JAK-binding protein that interacts with the Jak2 tyrosine-kinase JH1 domain. JAB is structurally related to CIS, a cytokine-inducible SH2 protein. Interaction of JAB with Jak1, Jak2 or Jak3 markedly reduces their tyrosine-kinase activity and suppresses the tyrosine-phosphorylation and activation of STATs. JAB and CIS appear to function as negative regulators in the JAK signalling pathway.

Correlation between vitamin D receptor genotypes and bone mineral density in Japanese patients with osteoporosis

In order to better understand the pathogenesis of osteoporosis, we investigated the correlation between the vitamin D receptor (VDR) genotypes defined by BsmI restriction enzyme, as well as other related factors, and the bone mineral density (BMD) at the lumbar spine in 90 Japanese patients with osteoporosis. The same study was performed in 36 patients with osteoarthrosis of the hip joint and 92 healthy volunteers. The majority of the VDR genotypes were bb, and a few of the population showed either the BB or Bb genotype in all three groups. There was no statistical difference in the frequencies of these VDR genotypes in the three groups. The mean age-matched value of BMD (Z scores) at the lumbar spine in patients with osteoporosis was significantly lower than that in patients with osteoarthrosis or healthy volunteers. The mean Z scores of the healthy volunteers with bb genotype were significantly higher than those with BB genotype, whereas those of the osteoporosis patients with BB genotype were significantly higher than those with Bb genotype. There was no significant difference in the mean Z scores between bb and Bb genotypes in patients with osteoporosis and healthy volunteers. No significant difference was seen in the mean Z scores in patients with osteoarthrosis regardless of genotype. On the other hand, body weight significantly correlated with BMD in patients with osteoporosis by simple- and multiple-regression analysis. These results indicate that the BMD at the lumbar spine in Japanese patients with osteoporosis is affected by body weight, and might be affected partially by the VDR genotypes defined by BsmI.

Expression of MAGE genes in osteosarcoma

Expression of MAGE genes that encode tumor-rejection antigens recognized by cytotoxic T lymphocytes with major histocompatibility complex class-I antigens was investigated in human osteosarcomas (20 cell lines and eight fresh tumor tissues). MAGE-1, 2, 3, 4, and 6 genes were expressed at the mRNA level in 11 (52.4%), 10 (47.6%), 10 (47.6%) one (4.8%), and 10 (47.6%) of 21 tumor cell lines, respectively, and in five (62.5%), six (75%), five (62.5%), one (12.5%), and five (62.5%) of eight fresh tumor tissues as determined by the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction method. MAGE-1 or 4 protein was detected by immunoblot analysis in eight of 11 or one of one tumor cell lines, respectively, where it was expressed at the mRNA level. Major histocompatibility complex class-I antigens were expressed in 19 of 21 tumor cell lines. These results suggest that MAGE tumor-rejection antigens are expressed in substantial numbers of osteosarcomas in a major histocompatibility class-I-restricted manner.

Morphological and biochemical evidence for apoptosis in the terminal hypertrophic chondrocytes of the growth plate

The purpose of this study was to investigate the mechanism of cell death in chondrocytes of the growth plate. In the degenerative chondrocyte zone of the growth plate, apoptotic chondrocytes were defeated by the in situ nick end labelling method, by DNA analysis in agarose gel, and by electron microscopy. The results of the in situ nick end labelling method and the occurrence of a ladder pattern of DNA in agarose gel analysis indicated the activation of endogenous endonucleases, resulting in DNA fragmentation. Electron micrographs showed the early morphological changes associated with apoptosis. This report presents both morphological and biochemical evidence for apoptosis in the terminal hypertrophic chondrocytes of the growth plate. These data suggest that apoptosis of degenerative chondrocytes may play an important role in the control of normal and pathological endochondral ossification.

Interleukin-4 stimulates rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts to express matrix metalloproteinase-1 (tissue collagenase) and histamine H1 receptor mRNA

In the present study, we investigated the effect of interleukin-4 (IL-4) on metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1/tissue collagenase) production in human rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts. Northern blot analysis revealed that addition of IL-4 with or without histamine stimulated the cells to increase the amount of proMMP-1 mRNA, and the IL-4 with histamine addition resulted in a 3.3-fold increase compared with histamine only. Furthermore, IL-4 itself stimulated the expression of histamine H1 receptor mRNA. These results suggest that IL-4 may play an important role in joint destruction in RA.

P-glycoprotein is expressed in the mineralizing regions of the skeleton

Using oligonucleotide primers specific for the human MDR 1 gene, we were able to identify a specific amplicon using RT-PCR from total bovine growth plate chondrocyte RNA. The identification of MDR mRNA in growth plate chondrocytes led us to examine the precise distribution of MDR P-glycoprotein in bone and cartilage. We applied two monoclonal antibodies (C219 and C494) to human fetal, neonatal, and childhood growth plates and bone. In growth plates, P-glycoprotein was detected at high levels in a perilacunar distribution in the calcifying zone and at lower levels in hypertrophic, but not proliferative or reserve zone, chondrocytes. P-glycoprotein was also observed in perichondrial chondrocytes, in perivascular chondrocytes and matrix in the fetal cartilage anlage, and in osteoblasts and the surface osteoid matrix of newly formed bone trabeculae in the primary spongiosa. The recently described chloride channel of P-glycoprotein suggests a potential role of P-glycoprotein in growth plate chondrocyte hypertrophy.

Body size and composition in different somatotypes of Japanese college-aged women

The purpose of this study was to determine differences in body size, composition and structure between three somatotypes of Japanese college-aged women. The study sample consisted of 30 sedentary female college students between 18 and 20 years of age. Ten subjects had an endomorphic ectomorph somatotype (mean weight 41.95 kg), 10 had an endomorph-ectomorph somatotype (mean weight 47.12 kg) and the remaining subjects had a mesomorphic endomorph somatotype (mean weight 55.37 kg). The mean heights for these groups did not differ significantly. The mesomorphic endomorph group had a higher gross weight and a higher percentage of all adipose variables than the other two groups, though these measurements were not significantly different between the endomorph-ectomorph and the endomorphic ectomorph groups. The mean lean body weight (LBW) for the mesomorphic endomorph group was significantly larger than that of the other two groups. The endomorph-ectomorph group had the next largest LBW, and the mean for the endomorphic ectomorph group was significantly smaller than that of the other two groups. Inversely, mean values of LBW/weight(WT), LBW/total adipose tissue weight (TATW) ratio and total body water/WT were significantly lower for the mesomorphic endomorph group than for the other two groups. Furthermore, the ratios of internal adipose tissue to weight (IATW)/WT and subcutaneous adipose tissue to IATW (SATW)/IATW did not differ significantly between groups. In conclusion, college-aged women of different somatotypes within the same age and height range varied in body composition. Consequently, the notion of a small frame is incorrect. An accurate assessment of the human body's composition may provide a valuable insight into the ideal weight for optimal physiologic function.

Histamine-stimulated production of matrix metalloproteinase 1 by human rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts is mediated by histamine H1-receptors

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of histamine in human rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts in the production of factors responsible for tissue remodelling and cartilage breakdown in rheumatoid arthritis. We examined the effects of histamine of tritiated thymidine incorporation, production of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), histamine H1-receptor expression, phosphoinositide metabolism and intracellular calcium ion concentration ([Ca2+]i) in human rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts. Tritiated thymidine incorporation studies demonstrated that histamine markedly stimulated the proliferation of rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts. Immunofluorescence and Northern blot analyses revealed that proMMP-1 production was also stimulated by histamine. The levels of inositol phosphates and [Ca2+]i in the cells were elevated in response to histamine, indicating that the cells expressed histamine H1-receptors; and Northern blot analysis indicated that these H1-receptors were up-regulated by histamine. In in situ hybridization, large amounts of histamine H1-receptor mRNA were also detected in rheumatoid synovial tissue. These results suggest that the interaction between H1-receptor expression in rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts and histamine secretion by mast cells and macrophages in the affected sites is an important event responsible for tissue remodelling and joint destruction in rheumatoid arthritis.

Oxygen scavengers in simple bone cysts

Simple bone cyst is a fluid-filled, cystic lesion that occurs in the metaphysis of the long bones of children and adolescents. The chemical characteristics of the cyst fluid of the simple bone cyst are similar to those of serum. The existence of the cyst fluid itself may be an obstacle to cyst healing, and, in part, this may be because the cyst fluid contains bone destructive factors. Oxygen-free radicals, which are cytotoxic and cause connective tissue damage, are known to be generated under ischemic conditions. Blockage to the drainage of interstitial fluid within the metaphysis has been suggested as the possible primary cause of simple bone cyst, thus causing an ischemic state in which free radicals are generated. The precise measurement of free radical levels is difficult to obtain because of their extremely short half-lives. High levels of oxygen-free radicals induce high levels of oxygen scavengers locally to protect cells from the harmful effects of the free radicals. Therefore, the activity of the oxygen scavengers, superoxide dismutase and catalase, was measured in the cyst fluid of 9 cases of simple bone cyst as an indicator of high oxygen-free radical content in the cyst. Serum from the patients with simple bone cyst and joint fluid from patients with osteoarthritis were used for comparison with the intracystic levels of oxygen scavengers. Superoxide dismutase activity was directly measured at room temperature using an electron spin resonance spin-trapping technique with 5,5'-dimethyl-1-pyrroline-N-oxide as a trapping agent.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Effects of lipid peroxide on production of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (tissue collagenase) and 3 (stromelysin) and tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase 1 by human rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts

The effects of linoleic acid hydroperoxide on the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) including MMP-1 (tissue collagenase), -2 ("type IV collagenase"), and -3 (stromelysin) and of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1), as well as DNA synthesis were investigated in rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts. Our results demonstrated that the levels of proMMP-1 and -3 and TIMP-1 were extremely elevated when 0.5-2.0 nmole/ml of linoleic acid hydroperoxide was added to cultures of rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts. DNA synthesis, however, was inhibited by linoleic acid hydroperoxide. These results indicate that lipid peroxide causes the disruption of extracellular matrix macromolecules and the inhibition of cell repair in synovial tissue. Therefore, they also suggest that an elevated level of oxygen free radical and/or lipid peroxides in synovial fluid may play an important role in the process of rheumatoid arthritis, resulting in the disruption of the joint.

Aggressive bone tumorous lesion in infancy: osteofibrous dysplasia of the tibia and fibula

The clinical experiences of 10 patients with osteofibrous dysplasia were reviewed. Mean age of the patients was 7.3 years; all had an intracortical, eccentric lesion in the anterior aspect of the shaft of the tibia. Seven of the patients underwent either an excision or an en bloc resection; the lesion recurred in four of the seven, and one showed pseudarthrosis. Surgical outcomes were unsatisfactory, especially in the younger patients. In contrast, the remaining three patients who did not undergo surgery showed satisfactory results. Nonsurgical treatment is generally recommended except in cases in which impending deformities seem certain. Osteofibrous dysplasia was characterized histologically by osteoid rimmed by osteoblasts, sinusoid surrounding osteoid, many osteoclasts in the sinusoid, and fibrous stroma. Ultrastructurally, stroma cells revealed the characteristics of preosteoblasts. Osteogenic potentiality was well-documented. This tumorous condition is likely attributed to dysremodelling, in which osteoclastosis is dominant to osteogenesis. Abnormal blood circulation in the periosteum is the likely pathogenesis of osteofibrous dysplasia.

Relationship of anthropometric indices of body fat to cardiovascular risk in Japanese women

The relationship between body fat indices and cardiovascular risk was analyzed in 97 Japanese women aged 36-72 years. The variables used were anthropometric measures of body fatness, blood lipids and blood pressure. Total adipose tissue weight (TATW) was estimated from bioelectrical impedance measurements. Subcutaneous adipose tissue weight (SATW) was calculated by measuring subcutaneous fat thickness at 14 sites using a skinfold caliper. The indices of body fat distribution were the ratios of waist to hip circumference (WHR) and abdominal to hip circumference (AHR). Blood pressure and serum lipid levels were determined in all subjects after an overnight fast. The correlations among the various body fat indices were high, and all were strongly correlated with WHR and AHR; only % SATW and percentage internal adipose tissue weight (%IATW) were not correlated with WHR and AHR. Significant positive associations were found between WHR, triglycerides and systolic blood pressure (SBP). Negative associations were found between WHR and HDL-cholesterol (HDL-ch.) and the ratio of HDL-ch. to total cholesterol (HDL-ch./T-ch.). On the other hand, significant positive associations were found between AHR, T-ch., LDL-cholesterol, free fatty acid and SBP. A negative association was found between AHR and HDL-ch./T-ch.. Partial correlations were used to determine further associations between cardiovascular risk factors and fat distribution indices. SBP was associated with WHR or AHR after removing the effects of age. Similarly, HDL-ch./T-ch. was associated with WHR or AHR after removing the effects of age and degree of obesity (BMI). These results suggest that the WHR and AHR are equally valid estimates of body fat distribution with respect to their relationship with cardiovascular risk. These relationships occurred independently of age or BMI in Japanese women. These findings emphasize the importance of intra-abdominal obesity as a metabolic risk factor for cardiovascular disease associated with a high WHR and AHR.

Simple bone cyst. Treatment by trepanation and studies on bone resorptive factors in cyst fluid with a theory of its pathogenesis

Simple bone cysts were treated by trepanation. The technique consists of drainage of cyst fluid, lavage of the cystic cavity with saline, and the making of multiple drilling holes through the cortical and the medullary bone of the cyst wall. Injection of corticosteroid was omitted. In 11 cases treated by this method, the clinical outcome was good. Biochemical analyses of the cyst fluid showed bone-resorptive factors, i.e., prostaglandins, interleukin 1, proteolytic enzymes. Electrophoretic analysis of proteolytic enzymes in polyacrylamide gel containing sodium dodecyl sulfate and polymerized gelatin showed proteins with molecular weights of about 130,000, 92,000, 72,000, and lower than 50,000. Increase in such bone-resorbing activities seems to be one of the causative factors in simple bone cysts. The technique was effective in decompressing the internal pressure of the cysts, improving the blood flow through the medullary bone of the cyst wall, stimulating the periosteum to induce bone formation, and eliminating bone destruction.

[The effect of aerobic exercise training on internal body fat in obese women]

A group of 11 obese women (from 13% of ideal weight and higher) volunteered to participate in a study designed to reduce weight in a 92-day program of aerobic exercise. Before and after the weight reduction period, body fat indices were measured by deuterium oxide (D2O) dilution and by skinfold anthropometry. Changes in internal body fat and subcutaneous fat were calculated. Mean weight loss was 3.6 +/- 1.2 kg, and internal body fat and subcutaneous fat were 1.8 +/- 1.3 kg (21.2%) and 3.0 +/- 0.9 kg (16.0%), respectively. Highly significant correlation were obtained between changes in internal body fat and total body fat (r = 0.856, p < 0.001). However, changes in internal body fat were not significantly associated with changes in waist to hip ratio (WHR). In the present study, we found that changes in total body fat were significantly related to changes in internal body fat during treatment of obesity with aerobic exercise. However, changes in internal body fat were not valid estimates of changes in body fat distribution in relation to changes in WHR.

Cementation in the treatment of giant cell tumor of bone

This study was designed to review the clinical experience of cementation in the treatment of giant cell tumor of bone and to clarify its biologic basis. Eleven patients treated by this technique had results rated excellent. No recurrences of the tumor were found. Serious complications, including infection, late fracture, or secondary osteoarthrosis, did not occur. The possibility of immediate fixation and stabilization of large defects is the most valuable point of this method. Local recurrence seems to be easily detectable by magnetic resonance imaging. A cell line of mononuclear cells from giant cell tumor of bone was examined for its response to hyperthermic exposure. Hyperthermic treatment was carried out at temperature of 60 degrees for 10 min and in other conditions. The numbers of cells surviving after heat treatment were counted, and flow cytometry was used to analyze the positive rate of surface antigens of the cells and the pattern of DNA distribution at the different temperatures. The heat treatment caused a fair number of the cells to fall into S-phase, and the tetraploid value was very low. The higher the temperature and the longer the time, the fewer cells survived and the less the expression of the monocytic phenotype. No cells survived after heating at 60 degrees for 10 min. Cementation seemed to have a hyperthermic effect to the cells of giant cell tumor of bone.

Rapidly destructive arthropathy of the hip. Studies on bone resorptive factors in joint fluid with a theory of pathogenesis

The mechanism of joint destruction in rapidly destructive coxopathy was studied by analyzing bone resorptive factors in the joint fluid. Prostaglandins were found to play a partial role in joint destruction. Some cases of rapidly destructive coxopathy revealed elevated levels of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta) in the joint fluid. Electrophoretic analysis of proteolytic enzymes in polyacrylamide gel containing sodium dodecyl sulfate and copolymerized gelatin demonstrated that the resorptively active peptides have relative molecular weights (M(r)) of approximately 92,000, 72,000, and lower than 60,000. Cultured cells from synovia obtained perioperatively secreted matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) with an M(r) of 72,000 and matrix metalloproteinase 3(MMP-3) with an M(r) of 57,000. Synovial cells from the patients with coxarthrosis secreted fewer proteolytic enzymes. Prostaglandins, IL-1 beta, MMP-2, and MMP-3 could act synergetically as promotors in the rapid destruction of the hip joint.

Cell proliferation-related production of matrix metalloproteinases 1 (tissue collagenase) and 3 (stromelysin) by cultured human rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts

We investigated the effects of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF), and insulin on the cell proliferation of and the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) by rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts in order to determine the role of these agents in rheumatoid arthritis. PDGF stimulated rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts to increase DNA synthesis and the production of precursor forms of MMP-1 of M(r) = 53,000 and -3 of M(r) = 57,000. EGF and insulin also increased DNA synthesis and the production of these enzymes, but the amount of DNA or MMPs was smaller than that induced by PDGF. Since the production of matrix macromolecules and their degradation is essential for the remodelling of synovial tissue in rheumatoid arthritis, these data suggest that the production of MMP-1 and-3 by rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts in relation to cell proliferation plays an important role in the pathological process of rheumatoid arthritis.

Production of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 3 (stromelysin) by stromal cells of giant cell tumor of bone

Matrix metalloproteinases play a central role in the catabolism of extracellular matrix macromolecules. Here the authors report that giant cell tumor of bone (GCT) produces two matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in zymogen form, which have been identified as proMMP-2 (also known as "72-kDa-progelatinase/type IV procollagenase") and proMMP-3 (prostromelysin). Giant cell tumor is known to consist of two major cell populations, multinucleated giant cells and stromal cells. On several passages of the tumor cells in culture, only stromal cells proliferated. These stromal cells produced proMMP-2 but not proMMP-3. Addition of the conditioned medium of primary GCT culture or human macrophage-conditioned medium to the passaged stromal cells induced the production of proMMP-3. The production of proMMP-3 was also induced by interleukin 1 (IL-1), but not by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha). ProMMP-1 (tissue procollagenase) was not detected even after treatment with these stimuli. Immunohistochemical studies have demonstrated that multinucleated giant cells in GCT both produce IL-1 and TNF alpha, suggesting that IL-1 secreted by multinucleated giant cells may be responsible for in vivo production of proMMP-3 by the stromal cells. The authors propose that GCT has a self-stimulatory system for the production of matrix-degrading proteinases and that the ability of the passaged stromal cells to synthesize and secrete proMMP-3 with appropriate stimuli may contribute the malignant behavior of GCT.

[The pathogenesis and etiology of giant cell tumor of bone from a viewpoint of bone resorptive factors]

The pathogenesis and etiology of giant cell tumor of bone was studied by analysing the bone resorptive factors in the conditioned culture medium. In the primary culture characteristic multinucleated giant cells and mononuclear cells were coexisted. The values of interleukin 1 (IL-1) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the conditioned medium obtained from the primary culture were high. In the primary culture, an immunohistochemical technique revealed the presence of IL-1 both in mononuclear cells and in giant cells. When the medium obtained from the primary culture was tested for proteolytic activity by zymography with SDS/polyacrylamide containing gelatin, multiple gelatinolytic activities were observed. In subcultures, multinucleated giant cells were not persisted and only stromal cells were visible. In subcultures, the values of IL-1 and PGE2 were much lower. Proteolytic activities were similarly weak. However, the exposure of the passaged stromal cells to the medium containing IL-1 stimulated the stromal cells to produce PGE2 and proteolytic enzymes. Immunofluorescent localization technique revealed the expression of the proteolytic enzymes in the stromal cells. These findings demonstrated that coexistence of multinucleated giant cells with mononuclear cells should be needed for the tumor to express the original phenotype. In the presence of multi-nucleated cells, mononuclear cells seem to be stimulated to produce PGE2 and proteolytic enzymes, which accelerate the bone resorption. These factors are considered to act synergetically in the resorption of bones.

[Equation for estimating total body water by bioelectrical impedance measurements in Japanese subjects]

This article reports a study in which the equation for total body water (TBW) estimated from deuterium (2H2O)-dilution method and bioelectrical impedance measurement (BIM) is described. Subjects were 60 healthy males aged 30 +/- 18.3 yr (18-74) and 31 healthy females aged 37 +/- 17.5 yr (19-70). Total body water determined by the analysis of the dilution of orally ingested deuterium oxide (1g2H2O, 99.75 atom % excess/kg body weight) in urine. Bioelectrical impedance was measured for each subjects in a supine position using an electrical impedance analyzer (500 microA, 50kHz, T-1988K, Toyo Physical Inc.) with a four electrodes (Y-250, Nihon Kohden). The mean values of total body water and the impedance in males and females subjects were 34.1 +/- 4.27 l and 25.7 +/- 2.42 l, 567 +/- 28.5 omega and 562 +/- 32.5 omega, respectively. Height squared divided by resistance (Ht2/R) correlated well with TBW as measured by 2H2 O, r = 0.530 (p less than 0.001) in males and r = 0.782 (p less than 0.001) in females. The best-fitting regression equation to predict TBW comprised Ht2/R(X1) and body weight (X2) (R = 0.915, SEE = 1.70 l in males and R = 0.834, SEE = 1.28 l in females). Equations were provided with BIM instrument for the prediction of TBW: for males TBW, l = 0.1983X1 + 0.4004X2 - 0.7938 and for females TBW, l = 0.3536X1 + 0.1269X2 + 3.3417. These results suggest that bioelectrical impedance measurement is a useful measure of total body water in Japanese subjects.

[Comparison of methods for estimating percent body fat in distance-runners]

A comparative study was conducted between two independent methods to estimate body fat in 13 college male distance-runners (20.2 +/- 1.1 yrs) and 11 male college students (19.6 +/- 0.7 yrs) as control group. The methods dealt with different body component parameters. Body fat was estimated (1) in terms of total body water based on the analysis of dilution of orally ingested deuterium oxide (D2O) in urine, and (2) in terms of body density based on underwater weighing. The results were as follows: 1) The skinfold thickness at 14 sites in distance-runners were thinner than those in control group. The mean values for subcutaneous fat in distance-runners were 4.3 +/- 0.7 kg (7.2 +/- 1.1%), which were lower than those (8.3 +/- 2.7 kg & 13.3 +/- 3.4%) in control group significantly. Oh the other hand, the mean values for internal fat in distance-runners were 8.7 +/- 1.4 kg (14.4 +/- 1.6%), which were larger than those (6.5 +/- 3.1 kg & 10.2 +/- 4.3%) in control group. 2) The mean values for percent body fat in control group were 16.1 +/- 1.6% by skinfolds method, 20.2 +/- 5.1% by body density method and 23.5 +/- 4.6% by total body water method. The estimated values of percent body fat by the methods of body density and total body water were approximately the same. 3) The mean values for percent body fat in distance-runners were 11.9 +/- 1.4% by skinfolds method, 11.8 +/- 1.7% by body density method and 21.5 +/- 1.9% by total body water method. The estimated values of percent body fat in distance-runners were lower than those in control group.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Methods for the assessment of human body composition: skinfold thickness and bioelectrical impedance measurements]

Research to establish indirect methods of determining human body composition began during the 1940s. Renewed interest in the assessment of human body composition has stimulated the need for a balanced understanding of available methodologies of estimating fat-free mass and fat mass. Subsequently a variety of methods has been introduced. However, attempts to describe the theory and practice of individual methods have been limited. The review summarizes the background and to describe the precision or error of skinfold thickness measurement and to highlight the strengths and the limitations of bioelectrical impedance method.

Characterization of cells cultured from human giant-cell tumors of bone. Phenotypic relationship to the monocyte-macrophage and osteoclast

Cell culture techniques were used to clarify the histogenesis of giant-cell tumor of bone. Even after passage, nearly all of the mononuclear cells possessed tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase and receptors for eel calcitonin, which are both phenotypic markers for osteoclasts. Eel calcitonin produced an increase in the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) content of the mononuclear cells. More than 90% of mononuclear tumor cells expressed monocyte markers; flow cytometric C3b receptor, a macrophage marker, was also detected in a few cells. These findings demonstrate that the mononuclear cells expressed phenotypes of both the osteoclast and monocyte-macrophage and that they originate in a monocyte-macrophage-osteoclast lineage. Giant-cell tumor of bone may thus provide a good model for investigating the mechanism of bone resorption in which cells of osteoclast lineage play a central role.

Target sites of polymyxin B ototoxicity

The present study was undertaken to determine the target sites of polymyxin B ototoxicity. This drug, at the concentration of 1 mM, was perfused through the scala tympani of the guinea pig cochlea, and cochlear microphonics and endocochlear potentials were monitored. Both cochlear potentials altered but in an independent manner. These findings indicated that not only the organ of Corti but also another tissue is involved in the ototoxicity produced. The best locus for this is the vascular stria.

Relationship of the waist to hip ratio with serum lipids in women

Recent reports have shown that a high ratio of waist to hip circumference (WHR) may be associated with a high proportion of intra-abdominal fat. The metabolic complications of obesity, which are associated with a high WHR, may therefore relate specifically to the amount of intra-abdominal fat. The purpose of this study was to determine if WHR is associated with the concentration of serum lipids that may predispose individuals to a higher risk for metabolic complications. Serum lipids concentrations were determined in 45 female subjects, ranging from 31 to 40 years in age, and WHR ranging from 0.71 to 0.98. Positive correlations of WHR with the ratio of cholesterol to HDL-cholesterol (r = 0.641, p less than 0.001) and with triglycerides (r = 0.479, p less than 0.001), were found, while a negative correlation existed between WHR and HDL-cholesterol (r = -0.600, p less than 0.001). In order to investigate the relationship between the fat distribution in the body and the serum lipids, the subjects were divided into two groups according to their % Body fat; one group with a % Body fat more than 30 and the other with a % Body fat less than 30. The two groups differed significantly in WHR. In the group of obese women with high WHR (greater than 0.87), the ratio of cholesterol to HDL-cholesterol and triglycerides were higher and HDL-cholesterol lower than in the normal group with low WHR (less than 0.80).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Interaction of polyanion against kanamycin ototoxicity

We studied whether interference of the electron bindings between kanamycin (KM) and the outer plasma membranes of the hair cells with polyanion such as heparin can reduce ototoxicity. In a short course experiment, KM 200 mg/kg/day was injected intramuscularly 23 times with or without 1 U or 0.5 U of heparin/g/day differently to 22 guinea pigs. The reducing effect of heparin against KM ototoxicity was significant from a comparison of the N1 threshold obtained by the cochleogram. The number of surviving outer hair cells in the heparin groups was significantly greater in the third turn than in the group given KM alone. A long course experiment in which 50 injections of KM with or without 0.5 U of heparin were given intramuscularly to 16 guinea pigs revealed from the pinna reflex, cochlear microphonics and cell counting that heparin could reduce ototoxicity slightly at an early stage or before reaching crucial accumulation.

Prognostic factors in giant cell tumor of bone. A modified histological grading system useful as a guide to prognosis

An analysis of 26 patients with giant cell tumor of bone was carried out to determine the clinical and pathological factors affecting the prognosis of the tumor, with a follow-up program of more than 3 years. The physical characteristics of the pathological features were measured objectively using an image analyzer. A significant correlation between the therapeutic procedures and recurrence of the tumor was found, but no pathological variables were significantly correlated. Excision or resection en bloc should be performed for the initial treatment of the tumor. Local recurrence could not be predicted on the basis of histological grading. Stromal cell atypia was significantly correlated with metastasis, but multinucleated giant cells bore no correlation to either recurrence or metastasis. The use of a modified histological grading system based not on variations of the stroma and giant cells but only on the atypia of mononuclear stromal cells, either malignant or classical, is recommended for the clinical assessment of the tumor.

A study on the osseous elements in malignant fibrous histiocytoma of bone

By studying histochemically and ultrastructurally a case of malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) of bone with neoplastic osteoid elements, the distinction of the tumor from osteosarcoma was discussed. MFH was likely to originate from undifferentiated mesenchymal cells that induced a histiocytic line of differentiation, and some histiocytes seemed to be transformed into well differentiated fibroblastic cells which accordingly differentiated into fibroblasts and osteoblasts. This may explain the existence of the osseous elements in MFH. Sarcoma showing the bimodal--histiocytic and fibroblastic--differentiation should be diagnosed as malignant fibrous histiocytoma, even if it contains tumorous osteoid; it must be clearly distinguished from osteosarcoma, in which the various cells only on a fibroblastic line of differentiation can be identified and the osteoblasts are the predominant cells.

An ultrastructural study of extraskeletal Ewing's sarcoma

A case of extraskeletal Ewing's sarcoma was studied ultrastructurally, cytologically, and cytochemically. This tumor was, as in that of osseous origin, composed of densely packed highly undifferentiated blastemic cells and so-called "darker cells." The principal tumor cells were undifferentiated cells, which were characterized by the scant cytoplasm containing a variable amount of glycogen granules, large round or oval nuclei with dispersed chromatin, and rudimentary cytoplasmic junctional complexes. Some of the darker cells seemed to show somewhat histiocytic differentiation from principal blastemic cells, but the others were degenerating. Cytochemically, no tumor cells revealed the presence of peroxidase, lysozymes, and Factor VIII-related antigen. It is likely that both Ewing's sarcomas of osseous and extraosseous origin are defined as undifferentiated sarcoma merely characterized by the presence of glycogen.

Electron microscopy of bone tumors--osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, giant cell tumor of bone

Six cases of osteosarcoma, 5 cases of chondrosarcoma, and 6 cases of giant cell tumor of bone were studied by electron microscopy. The cells comprising osteosarcoma were basically osteoblasts and in addition to them, malignant chondrocytes, myofibroblasts and undifferentiated cells. The ratio of number of these cells were variable according to the portions designated microscopically as osteoblastic, chondroblastic and fibroblastic. Previous ultrastructural studies on osteosarcoma have scarcely revealed the presence of myofibroblasts. It is likely that osteosarcoma arises from undifferentiated mesenchymal cells capable of differentiating into various cells such as osteoblasts, chondroblasts, and fibroblasts; especially capable of differentiating into osteoblasts. On the other hand, chondrosarcoma was composed of the cells in the series of maturation from undifferentiated cells to chondrocytes. In high-grade malignant cases, glycogen particles and rough endoplasmic reticulum became less conspicuous, and occasionally malignant multinucleated cells were seen. In one case, endoplasmic reticular inclusions which were thought to be viral nucleocapsid by some authors were found. They, however, seemed to be formed by condensation of intracisternal granular material secreted by the rough endoplasmic reticulum. The cells comprising giant cell tumor of bone were multinucleated giant cells and stromal cells classified into four types. In a malignant case, giant cells showed no remarkable morphological change while stromal cells underwent an atypical change. This finding suggests that the mononuclear stromal cells are the principal tumor cells and the establishment of histological grading should mainly depend on the atypism of stromal cells. The tumor is likely to originate from undifferentiated mesenchymal cells which have the tendency of histiocytic and fibroblastic differentiation. The morphogenesis of multinucleated giant cells is not clarified in this study. Although the possibility that stromal cells are the origin of giant cells is still remained, it could also be speculated that giant cells are somehow related to immune response to the tumor having macrophage-related origin.

Asplenia and polysplenia syndrome

This report described the morphological characteristics of seven cases of asplenia syndrome and three of polysplenia syndrome. Each syndrome has been characterized by a tendency for symmetric development of normally asymmetric organs, with varying degrees of cardiovascular anomalies. These latter anomalies are usually present in asplenia syndrome to a greater extent than in polysplenia syndrome. While, as observed in our material, the conotruncal anomalies were present more commonly in cases with asplenia, and absence of inferior vena cava with azygos continuation was seen specifically in all the cases with polysplenia. This evidence implied the presence of some pathogenetic distinction between the two syndromes.