Echocardiography of a right atrial mass in hepatocellular carcinoma

Antemortem diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma with a tumor thrombus extending into the right atrium has been rarely observed. Although echocardiography allows easy detection of the intracardiac mass, reports of echocardiographic descriptions of a right atrial mass associated with hepatocellular carcinoma are few. Herein, we describe two cases of hepatocellular carcinoma with a tumor thrombus in the right atrium detected by transthoracic echocardiography. In one of the patients we also performed transesophageal echocardiography. Neither patient had cardiac symptoms or signs. Thus, echocardiographic examination is very important in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, with or without cardiac symptoms and signs.

Genomic organization of the genes encoding dihydroflavonol 4-reductase for flower pigmentation in the Japanese and common morning glories

Genomic DNA segments (approximately 17kb) containing three DFR genes in the Japanese and common morning glories were sequenced. The three DFR genes in both plants were found to be arranged in a tandem array, and all of them comprised six exons with identical intron positions. Their DFR-B genes carrying longer introns than the DFR-A and DFR-C genes were expressed extensively in the young buds of pigmented flowers, and the transcription starting site for the DFR-B mRNA of the Japanese morning glory was determined. The DFR-B gene of the common morning glory was expressed considerably in stems, moderately in sepals and leaves, whereas the DFR-A and DFR-C genes of the same plant were expressed scarcely but significantly in the young flower buds and stems. Several novel mobile element-like sequences of around 200bp were found in the genomic DFR regions. A phylogenetic tree indicated that each DFR gene in the Japanese morning glory is most closely related to the corresponding DFR gene in the common morning glory, and that the DFR-B gene is the most diversified gene among the three DFR genes. These structural and functional features of the DFR genes and their evolutionary implications are discussed.

Thrombospondin 2 expression is correlated with inhibition of angiogenesis and metastasis of colon cancer

Two subtypes of thrombospondin (TSP-1 and TSP-2) have inhibitory roles in angiogenesis in vitro, although the biological significance of these TSP isoforms has not been determined in vivo. We examined TSP-1 and TSP-2 gene expression by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis in 61 colon cancers. Thirty-eight of these 61 colon cancers were positive for TSP-2 expression and showed hepatic metastasis at a significantly lower incidence than those without TSP-2 expression (P = 0.02). TSP-2 expression was significantly associated with M0 stage in these colon cancers (P = 0.03), whereas TSP-1 expression showed no apparent correlation with these factors. The colon cancer patients with TSP-2 expression showed a significantly low frequency of liver metastasis correlated with the cell-associated isoform of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-189) (P = 0.0006). Vascularity was estimated by CD34 staining, and TSP-2(-)/VEGF-189(+) colon cancers showed significantly increased vessel counts and density in the stroma (P < 0.0001). TSP-2(-)/VEGF-189(+) colon cancer patients also showed significantly poorer prognosis compared with those with TSP-2(+)/VEGF-189(-) (P = 0.0014). These results suggest that colon cancer metastasis is critically determined by angiogenesis resulting from the balance between the angioinhibitory factor TSP-2 and angiogenic factor VEGF-189.

Development of primary leiomyosarcoma of the sternum postirradiation: report of a case

We report herein the case of a 30-year-old man who developed a primary leiomyosarcoma (LMS) 11 years after undergoing a median sternotomy for mediastinal seminoma followed by 50 Gy radiotherapy. He was given two courses of chemotherapy, resulting in 90% tumor regression, after which resection of the tumor with adjacent chest wall structures was carried out. Reconstruction was performed using a methylmethacrylate prosthesis prepared preoperatively. Postoperatively, he received two additional courses of chemotherapy and has had no sign of recurrence for 45 months.

Multidrug resistance-associated protein and mutant p53 protein expression in non-small cell lung cancer

Multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP) is one of the major factors for non-P-glycoprotein (PGp)-mediated multidrug resistance. We reported previously that overexpression of the MRP gene was related to the prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). It is unclear how MRP expression is regulated in NSCLC. In this study, we examined MRP and mutant p53 expression in 107 NSCLCs by immunohistochemical procedures. Forty-seven (43.9%) of these 107 NSCLCs were positive for MRP in the cytoplasm. Mutant p53-positive NSCLC showed a significant correlation with MRP overexpression (P=.011). Coexpression of MRP and p53 in the same cells of NSCLC was confirmed by double-staining procedures. Twenty-six patients with MRP-positive tumors who underwent postoperative chemotherapy with MRP-related anticancer drugs (vindesine and etoposide) had significantly poorer prognoses than did those with MRP-negative tumors (P=.017). This correlation between MRP expression and prognosis was also seen in Stage III patients (P=.022) and in patients with squamous cell carcinoma (P=.062). NSCLC patients with coexpression of MRP and p53 showed poorer prognoses than did those without MRP and p53 (P=.014). These results suggested that MRP overexpression affected by mutant p53 had a significant effect on prognosis through atypical non-PGp-mediated multidrug resistance in NSCLC.

Isolation and characterization of a cDNA clone of UDP-galactose: flavonoid 3-O-galactosyltransferase (UF3GaT) expressed in Vigna mungo seedlings

Four cDNA clones were isolated from Vigna mungo seedlings by the screening with cDNA encoding UDP-glucose:flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase (UF3GT) of Antirrhinum majus as a probe; the product of the gene corresponding to one cDNA was more highly expressed in the first simple leaves than in stems. Nucleotide sequence analysis revealed 1,691 bp (including 326 bp non-reading) containing an open reading frame of 455 amino acids. The deduced amino acid sequence showed 42% and 23% identity with those of A. majus UDP-glucose:flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase (UF3GT) and Petunia hybrida UDP-rhamnose:anthocyanidin 3-O-glucoside rhamnosyltransferase (RT), respectively. One region of the cDNA (amino acids 325 to 387) showed similarity to ceramide UDP-galactosyltransferases of mice, rats and humans. A crude extract from Escherichia coli, in which the protein was expressed from the cDNA, showed high UF3GaT activity but low UF3GT activity, and was similar in K(m), optimal pH and substrate specificity to UF3GaT from V. mungo. We conclude that we have obtained UDP-galactose:flavonoid 3-O-galactosyltransferase (UF3GaT) cDNA from V. mungo.

A comparison of biopsy through a parasternal anterior mediastinotomy under local anesthesia and percutaneous needle biopsy for malignant anterior mediastinal tumors

The various methods of treating the numerous types of anterior mediastinal neoplasms are undergoing refinements; however, prior to the commencement of any treatment, an accurate histologic diagnosis must be established. We conducted a retrospective analysis of biopsies performed through a parasternal anterior mediastinotomy (PAM) on 21 patients with an anterior mediastial mass suspected of being malignant by computed tomography (CT) and other clinical information. Patients with possible localized thymomas were excluded. Mediastinotomy, which enables relatively large tissue samples to be taken, was performed through the bed of the second or third costal cartilage under local anesthesia. In 19 of the 21 patients (90%), the histologic diagnosis made from the mediastinotomy biopsy was identical to the final diagnosis. Conversely, although the tissue obtained from needle biopsy was sufficient for a histologic diagnosis in 11 of 12 patients, the histologic diagnosis made from the needle biopsy was the same as the final diagnosis in only 5 of 10 patients (50%). Thus, diagnostic accuracy was significantly higher in the mediastinotomy biopsies than in the needle biopsies (P = 0.0318). Moreover, the mediastinotomy biopsy specimens revealed subtypes of lymphomas and germ cell tumors. All of the patients from whom a mediastinotomy biopsy had been taken began appropriate therapy without delay according to the histologic diagnosis. These results suggest that the PAM approach should be chosen as the preferred method of biopsy for suspected malignant anterior mediastinal tumors.

Production of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in a patient with metastatic chest wall large cell carcinoma

Recent reports of cancers that produce colony-stimulating factors (CSF) and which are associated with leukocytosis indicate that most are granulocyte CSF-producing tumors. A 71-year-old man with metastatic chest wall tumors from large cell lung cancer with marked leukocytosis and eosinophilia was reported. His maximal leukocyte count was 48300/microliter with 37.5% eosinophils. Granulocyte-macrophage CSF (GM-CSF) activity detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in serum was 112 pg/ml (normal range < 2.0 pg/ml), but G-CSF was normal. Immunohistochemical detection of GM-CSF protein on a chest wall tumor sample was positive. Irradiation of the chest wall tumor was performed and the leukocyte count decreased temporally. However, he died of respiratory failure due to progressive tumor growth 56 days after admission. Based on these results it appears that autocrine production of GM-CSF is a possible cause of this leukemoid reaction.

Purification and characterization of kaouthiagin, a von Willebrand factor-binding and -cleaving metalloproteinase from Naha kaouthia cobra venom

A von Willebrand factor (vWF)-binding and -cleaving metalloproteinase, termed "kaouthiagin", was purified from the venom of cobra snake Naja kaouthia. Kaouthiagin is a monomer with a molecular mass of about 46 kDa and 51 kDa under non-reducing and reducing conditions, respectively, and the N-terminal amino acid sequence is homologous to high molecular mass snake venom metalloproteinases. Kaouthiagin bound to vWF in a divalent ion-independent manner, but the reduced kaouthiagin failed to interact with vWF, suggesting that the protein conformation maintained by intrachain-disulfide linkages of the molecule is essential for the binding to vWF. Neither botrocetin nor bitiscetin, vWF-binding modulators from another snake venom, interfered with the binding between kaouthiagin and vWF, but a monoclonal antibody VW92-3 specific to the N-terminal region of vWF (residues 1-910) inhibited the binding. Without affecting platelet GPIb/IX and GPIIb/IIIa, kaouthiagin specifically cleaved vWF between residues Pro-708 and Asp-709 in a divalent ion-dependent manner to diminish the multimeric structure of vWF in plasma, resulting in the loss of ristocetin-induced platelet aggregability and the collagen-binding activity of vWF. These results indicate that kaouthiagin is a unique metalloproteinase which specifically binds to and cleaves vWF at a specific site and that it will be a useful tool for functional dissection of vWF.

Minimum light intensity required to suppress nocturnal melatonin concentration in human saliva

We set out to determine the minimum intensity of light able to suppress nocturnal melatonin levels as measured in normal human saliva. Five healthy male volunteers were exposed to light at different intensities (<10, 500, 1000, 2500, and 5000 lux) in a repeated measure design. Suppression of melatonin was dependent on both light intensity and duration of light exposure. Minimum intensities of light suppressing nocturnal melatonin levels were calculated as 393, 366, 339, and 285 lux for exposure durations of 30, 60, 90, and 120 min, respectively. Minimum effective intensity and duration of light exposure showed a linear inverse relationship. These results suggest that less intensity of light than previously reported suffices to suppress melatonin in humans, and that caution is required in interpreting studies using long exposure to dim light as a background condition.

[A case of treatment with Dumon stent for tracheal stenosis due to lung cancer with hypercalcemia]

A 65-year-old man was facing to tracheal stenosis due to proximally developed lung cancer with hypercalcemia mediated by production of PTHrP from the cancer cells. We treated the stenosis use of Dumon stent and hypercalcemia with drugs such as biphosphonate and so on. The treatment was effectively keep the patient under better performance status for about 3.5 months.

Midterm results of thoracoscopic surgery for pulmonary metastases especially from colorectal cancers

Indications for thoracoscopic metastatectomy remain controversial because not all metastatic tumors may be detected without the manual palpation that is possible with thoracotomy. However, the accuracy (92%) of preoperative lung imaging in patients with one or two lesions led us to re-evaluate thoracoscopic metastatectomy with patient survival as the primary end point. Thoracoscopic wedge resection using an endoscopic stapling device or video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) lobectomy was performed in patients with one or two pulmonary metastases. Thoracoscopic resection was performed in 27 patients with 22 solitary lesions and 5 patients with two lesions. The primary tumors were colorectal cancer (15), testicular cancer (3), osteosarcoma (2), and seven other histologies. In 5 of 27 patients (18.5%) a thoracoscopic operation was converted to a VATS procedure, which requires minithoracotomy to identify metastasis primary by digital palpation. The 3-year survival rate for colorectal cancer patients who underwent thoracoscopic resection was 56.4%, in comparison to 48.6% in historical control thoracotomy patients (n = 16). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups. Thoracoscopic resection of one or two colorectal cancer lung metastases results in a survival rate similar to standard thoracotomy, and thereby provides an acceptable alternative to this more invasive approach.

Purification and cell attachment activity of a D-galactose-binding lectin from the skin of sea hare, Aplysia kurodai

A D-galactose-binding lectin which does not require Ca2+ or reducing reagents to induce activity was purified from skin of sea hare, Aplysia kurodai, by affinity chromatography. Skin lectin was confirmed to be a disulfide-bonded heteromultimer with molecular mass of 200 kDa, consisting of 28 kDa and 26 kDa subunits by SDS-PAGE and two-dimensional SDS-PAGE. Human rhabdomyosarcoma cells attached to and spread on plastic plates coated with lectin. Cell adhesion induced by lectin was completely inhibited by the addition of lactose.

[Reproductive and developmental toxicity study of sodium N-[2-[4-(2,2-dimethylpropionyloxy) phenylsulfonylamino] benzoyl] aminoacetate tetrahydrate (ONO-5046.Na (1). Fertility study in rats]

Fertility study of sodium N-[2-[4-(2,2-dimethylpropionyloxy) phenylsulfonylamino] benzoyl] aminoacetate tetrahydrate (ONO-5046.Na), a novel neutrophil elastase inhibitor, was conducted in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. ONO-5046.Na was administered intravenously at doses of 18.75, 37.5 and 75 mg/kg/day to male rats from 64 prior to mating, through the mating period and until necropsy, and to female rats from 15 days prior to mating until Day 7 of gestation, in order to examine its effects on fertility and reproductive performance of males and females and the development of their fetuses. There were no changes attributable to ONO-5046.Na in general signs, body weight, food consumption or autopsy findings in males and females. No drug-related changes were observed in estrous cycles, copulation and fertility indices in males and females. Pituitary weight of dams was decreased in each of the ONO-5046.Na treated groups, but no histopathological changes were observed in the pituitary. In the cesarean section findings in dams, ONO-5046.Na had no effects on the number of corpola lutea, the number of live fetuses, the implantation ratio, the resorbed and dead fetus ratio, fetal or placental weight, or the incidences of external, skeletal or visceral anomalies of the fetuses. From these results, it is considered that the NOAEL of ONO-5046.Na is 75 mg/kg/day for general and reproductive toxicity in males and females and for developmental toxicity in their fetuses.

[Reproductive and developmental toxicity study of sodium N-[2-[4-(2,2-dimethylpropionyloxy) phenylsulfonylamino] benzoyl] aminoacetate tetrahydrate (ONO-5046.Na) (3). Teratogenicity study in rabbits]

Teratogenicity of sodium N[2-[4-(2,2-dimethylpropionyloxy) phenylsulfonylamino]benzoyl] aminoacetate tetrahydrate (ONO-5046.Na), a novel inhibitor of human neutrophil elastase, was studied. ONO-5046.Na was injected intravenously at doses of 0, 7.5, 15 and 30 mg/kg/day to pregnant Kbl: NZW rabbits from day 6 to day 18 of pregnancy. All female rabbits were sacrificed on day 29 of pregnancy and their fetuses were examined. There were no clinical signs or death attributable to ONO-5046.Na. One dam in the control group and 3 dams in the 30 mg/kg/day group aborted. Body weight gain in the 15 and 20 mg/kg/day groups and food intake in the 30 mg/kg/day group were decreased during the administration period. These changes had recovered by the end of the study. Kidney weight was increased in the 30 mg/kg/day group. There were no effects of ONO-5046.Na in necropsy findings at cesarean section in dams at any dose levels. Developmental toxicity of ONO-5046.Na was not found at any dose levels. From these results, it is considered that the NOAEL of ONO-5046.Na is 7.5 mg/kg/day for pregnant animals and 30 mg/kg/day for fetuses.

Thrombospondin 2 gene expression is correlated with decreased vascularity in non-small cell lung cancer

Stromal vascularity is thought to be a major factor involved in the progression of carcinoma. However, the crucial mechanisms of vascularization in the stroma are not well understood. Vascularity could be regulated by various cytokines produced by neoplastic or stromal cells in carcinoma. Thrombospondin (TSP) has an inhibitory role against vascularization in vitro, although the biological significance of TSP has not been characterized in vivo. We examined expression of TSP1 and TSP2 genes in 78 non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) and 33 extraneoplastic lung tissue samples by reverse transcription-PCR. TSP1 expression was detected in 66.7% (52 of 78) of NSCLCs and in 69.7% (23 of 33) of extraneoplastic lung tissue specimens. TSP2 expression was seen in 48.7% (38 of 78) of NSCLCs, whereas 72.7% (24 of 33) of extraneoplastic lung tissue samples showed TSP2 gene expression. TSP2 expression was significantly decreased in NSCLC as compared with extraneoplastic lung tissue (chi2 test, P=0.019). Vascularity in the NSCLC was inversely correlated with TSP2 gene expression (Mann-Whitney U test, P=0.009). Patients with adenocarcinoma positive for TSP2 gene expression (22 of 49) showed significantly better prognosis than those without TSP2 (27 of 49; Cox-Mantel test, P=0.034). TSP1 expression showed no apparent correlation with these factors. These results suggested that TSP2 had an inhibitory role against vascularization and progression of NSCLC.

[Reproductive and developmental toxicity study of sodium N-[2-[4-(2,2-dimethylpropionyloxy) phenylsulfonylamino] benzoyl] aminoacetate tetrahydrate (ONO-5046.Na) (2). Study for effects on pre- and postnatal development in rats, including maternal function]

Prenatal and postnatal toxicity of sodium N-[2-[4-(2,2-dimethylpropionyloxy) phenylsulfonylamino] benzoyl] aminoacetate tetrahydrate (ONO-5046.Na), a novel inhibitor of human neutrophil elastase, was studied in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. ONO-5046.Na was injected intravenously at doses of 0, 18.75, 37.5 and 75 mg/kg/day to pregnant rats from day 7 of pregnancy to day 20 after delivery. All pregnant rats were allowed to deliver naturally for postnatal examination of their offspring. No adverse effects on dams were observed in clinical signs, body weight change, food consumption, pregnant, delivery or lactating performances. ONO-5046.Na did not affect the postnatal development of offspring, including birth index, survival index, physical and functional development, motor activity, emotionality, learning ability and reproductive performance. From these results, it is considered that the NOAEL of ONO-5046.Na is 75 mg/kg/day for dams and their offspring.

Cartilage folding method for main bronchial stapling

Bronchopleural fistula is one of the most severe complications of lung operations. To prevent bronchopleural fistula, we modified the stapling technique to include folding of both sides of the cartilaginous main bronchus. This reduces the tension at the center of the membranous portion of the airway. From 1991 to 1994, this technique was performed in 7 patients. Despite the fact that 4 of these patients received adjuvant therapy, none had development of a bronchopleural fistula.

Focal, high dose, and fractionated modified stereotactic radiation therapy for lung carcinoma patients: a preliminary experience

BACKGROUND

Stereotactic radiation therapy is highly effective in the treatment of small brain metastases, regardless of the histology. This suggests that small extracranial malignancies may be curable with similar radiation therapy. The authors developed a novel treatment unit for administering such therapy.

METHODS

The unit consisted of a linear accelerator (linac), an X-ray simulator (X-S), computed tomography (CT), and a table. The gantry axes of the three machines were coaxial and could be matched by rotating the table. Patients were instructed to perform shallow respiration with oxygen. The motion of the tumor was monitored with the X-S. When the motion was slight enough, the table was rotated to the CT. To include all geometric movement on the CT images, each scan was made while the patient was performing shallow respiration. After the CT positioning, the table was rotated to the linac, and non-coplanar treatment was given. Beginning in October 1994, 45 patients with 23 primary or 43 metastatic lung carcinomas were treated. Radiation doses at the 80% isodose line were 30-75 gray in 5-15 fractions over 1-3 weeks with or without conventional radiation therapy.

RESULTS

The treatment was performed with no or minimal adverse acute symptoms. The daily treatment time was short. During a median follow-up of 11 months, local progression occurred in 2 of 66 lesions. Interstitial changes in the lung were limited.

CONCLUSIONS

With this unit and procedure, focal radiation therapy similar to stereotactic radiation therapy is possible for extracranial sites. The preliminary experience appeared safe and promising, and further exploration of this approach is warranted.

Focal, high dose, and fractionated modified stereotactic radiation therapy for lung carcinoma patients: a preliminary experience

BACKGROUND

Stereotactic radiation therapy is highly effective in the treatment of small brain metastases, regardless of the histology. This suggests that small extracranial malignancies may be curable with similar radiation therapy. The authors developed a novel treatment unit for administering such therapy.

METHODS

The unit consisted of a linear accelerator (linac), an X-ray simulator (X-S), computed tomography (CT), and a table. The gantry axes of the three machines were coaxial and could be matched by rotating the table. Patients were instructed to perform shallow respiration with oxygen. The motion of the tumor was monitored with the X-S. When the motion was slight enough, the table was rotated to the CT. To include all geometric movement on the CT images, each scan was made while the patient was performing shallow respiration. After the CT positioning, the table was rotated to the linac, and non-coplanar treatment was given. Beginning in October 1994, 45 patients with 23 primary or 43 metastatic lung carcinomas were treated. Radiation doses at the 80% isodose line were 30-75 gray in 5-15 fractions over 1-3 weeks with or without conventional radiation therapy.

RESULTS

The treatment was performed with no or minimal adverse acute symptoms. The daily treatment time was short. During a median follow-up of 11 months, local progression occurred in 2 of 66 lesions. Interstitial changes in the lung were limited.

CONCLUSIONS

With this unit and procedure, focal radiation therapy similar to stereotactic radiation therapy is possible for extracranial sites. The preliminary experience appeared safe and promising, and further exploration of this approach is warranted.

Expression of cell-associated isoform of vascular endothelial growth factor 189 and its prognostic relevance in non-small cell lung cancer

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has four isoforms (VEGF121, VEGF165, VEGF189, VEGF206). We examined the expression patterns of VEGF isoforms in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by RT-PCR. The cell-associated isoform VEGF189 was more frequently expressed in NSCLC (90.5%) than in extraneoplastic lung tissue (57.6%, p=0.00004). Immunohistochemical examination confirmed VEGF protein expression in 33 of 76 NSCLC expressing VEGF189 (V189p+ group). The V189p+ group showed significantly poorer prognosis than those without VEGF189 mRNA and protein (V189p- group, p=0.01722). These results suggest that expression of the cell-associated isoform VEGF189 is closely associated with progression of NSCLC.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) mRNA isoform expression pattern is correlated with liver metastasis and poor prognosis in colon cancer

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a well known factor that induces angiogenesis. Four isoforms, i.e. VEGF206, 189, 165, and 121, have been identified. We examined the isoform patterns of VEGF mRNA using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis in 61 colon cancers. All the colon cancers examined expressed VEGF121. The isoform patterns were classified into three groups: type 1, VEGF121; type 2, VEGF121 + VEGF165; type 3, VEGF121 + VEGF165 + VEGF189. Three of the 61 colon cancers examined showed type 1 expression, 26 showed type 2 expression and 32 showed the type 3 pattern. The patients with liver metastases showed the type 3 isoform expression pattern at a significantly higher incidence (12 of 16, 75%) than those without liver metastasis (20 of 45, 44%) (P=0.036). The type 3 isoform pattern was significantly associated with M1 stage (P=0.019). The patients with colon cancer and the type 3 isoform pattern showed significantly poor prognosis (P < 0.01, Cox-Mantel). The colon cancers with the type 3 pattern showed a significantly higher involvement of veins (P=0.006). These observations suggest that the aberrant type 3 expression pattern of VEGF189 mRNA isoforms is correlated with liver metastasis, M stage, and poor prognosis in colon cancer.

[Clinicopathological study of six cases of primary pulmonary lymphoma diagnosed by gene rearrangement analysis]

We report six cases of primary pulmonary lymphoma in which a gene-rearranged band was shown by Southern blot analysis of transbronchial or surgical biopsy specimens. The cases were 3 mens and 4 women with an average age of 59.6, who had abnormal pulmonary shadows on chest X-ray. Two cases had Sjögren's syndrome and one case had monoclonal gammopathy (IgM-lambda type). Histopathologic and immunologic examination revealed diffuse infiltration of small lymphocytes (B-cell type) in all cases, and histological features of lymphoepithelial lesion or lympho-cytic interstitial pneumonia (LIP) in three cases. CT revealed an ill-defined margin, air-space consolidation, and air-bronchogram in all cases. A CT-angiogram sign was apparent in 2 cases. In all cases, Southern blot analysis of the tissue obtained from transbronchial or surgical biopsy revealed a gene re-arranged band, supporting the diagnosis of primary pulmonary lymphoma. We infer that an ill-defined margin, air-bronchogram and air space consolidation on CT were associated with the histopathological features of primary pulmonary lymphoma.

[Reproductive and developmental toxicity studies of landiolol hydrochloride (ONO-1101) (4). Perinatal and postnatal study in rats]

A perinatal and postnatal study of landiolol hydrochloride (ONO-1101), a novel ultra short acting beta-blocker, was conducted in Sprague-Dawley(SD) rats. ONO-1101 was administered intravenously at a dose level of 0 (control), 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg/day from day 17 of gestation to day 20 after parturition to examine the effects on pregnancy, delivery, lactation and the effects on postnatal growth and development of offspring. In the 100 mg/kg/day group, hypoactivity, reddish lacrimation, clonic convulsion and bradypnea/apnea were observed after administration and 5 animals died in the treatment period, and body weight on day 21 and food consumption on day 14-21 of dam at weaning were lower than control group. In the 50 mg/kg/day group, reddish lacrimation was occasionally seen in some animals. ONO-1101 had no effects on pregnancy, delivery, lactation and necropsy findings or organ weights of dams. In the 100 mg/kg/day group, viability of offspring on day 4 after birth decreased and body weight gain of the suckling suppressed, but those changes recovered after weaning. On the skeletal examination of offspring culled on day 4 after birth, decrease in the mean number of osiffied phalanges of hindpaw and increase in the incidence of unossified talus bone were seen in the 100 mg/kg/day group, however, no delay of ossification was found form the weanling. There were no influence of ONO-1101 on external differentiation, functional, behavioral or learning abilities or reproductive performance in offspring. From the above results, it is estimated that the no-toxic dose level of ONO-1101 under these experimental conditions is 50 mg/kg/day for dam and offspring.

[Reproductive and developmental toxicity studies of landiolol hydrochloride (ONO-1101) (1). Fertility study in rats]

A fertility study of landiolol hydrochloride (ONO-1101), a novel ultra short acting beta-blocker, was conducted in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. ONO-1101 was administered intravenously to males from the 64th day before mating until necropsy, and to females from 15th day before mating until day 7 of gestation, at a dose level of 0 (control), 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg/day. On day 20 of gestation, all dams were sacrificed and their fetuses were examined. In the 100 mg/kg/day group, hypoactivity, clonic convulsion, bradypnea/apnea and redish lacrimation were observed after administration in both sexes, and 3 males and 2 females died. Reddish lacrimation was occasionally seen in males at late stage of the treatment period in 50 mg/kg/day group. In the 100 mg/kg/day group, body weight gain suppressed in females from the premating through the gestation period, and food consumption decreased in females during the premating period, and mean thymus weight decreased in males. ONO-1101 did not affect estrous cycle, copulatory or fertility in both sexes or external, skeletal or visceral features of the fetuses. From the above results, it is estimated that the no-toxic dose level of ONO-1101 under these experimental conditions is 50 mg/kg/day for general toxicity in parents, and 100 mg/kg/day for the reproductive performance in parents and for the development of fetuses.

[Reproductive and developmental toxicity studies of landiolol hydrochloride (ONO-1101) (2). Teratogenicity study in rats]

A teratogenicity study of landiolol hydrochloride (ONO-1101), a novel ultra short acting beta-blocker, was conducted in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. ONO-1101 was administered intravenously at a dose level of 0 (control), 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg/day to pregnant rats from day 7 to 17 of gestation, and effects of ONO-1101 on dams, fetuses and their offspring, were examined. In the 100 mg/kg/day group, hypoactivity, bradypnea, reddish lacrimation, clonic convulsion and loss of righting reflex were observed and 2 animals died. Food consumption in the 100 mg/kg/day group decreased during the treatment period. No drug-related changes were observed in dams for their body weights, necropsy findings or organ weights. Decrease in placental weight was seen in the 100 mg/kg/day group, but no effect was found in fetal weight. ONO-1101 had no effects on delivery and lactation. On day 4 after birth, viability of offspring were decrease in the 50 or 100 mg/kg/day group, and body weight of males were decreased in the 100 mg/kg/day group, but no change caused by the treatment was observed in growth of offspring thereafter. On skeletal examination in offsprings culled on day 4 after birth, increase in the incidence of unossificated talus were seen in the 50 or 100 mg/kg/day group. But no drug-related anomalies were observed in external, skeletal or visceral findings in fetuses. It was not also found any influence of ONO-1101 on external differentiations, functional, behavioral or learning abilities or reproductive performance in offspring. From the above results, it is estimated that the no-toxic dose level of ONO-1101 under these experimental conditions is 50 mg/kg/day for dams, and 25 mg/kg/day for their offspring.

[Reproductive and developmental toxicity studies of landiolol hydrochloride (ONO-1101) (3). Teratogenicity study in rabbits]

A teratogenicity study of landiolol hydrochloride (ONO-1101), a novel ultra short acting beta-blocker, was conducted in KAR:NZW rabbits. ONO-1101 was administered intravenously at a dose level of 0 (control), 25, 50 or 100 mg/kg/day to pregnant rabbit from day 6 to 18 of gestation to examine the effects on dams and fetuses. Death occurred on 3 animals in the 100 mg/kg/day group and one animal in the 50 mg/kg/day group during the treatment period. Hypoactivity, bradypnea/apnea and clonic convulsion after administration was observed in animal dosed 100 mg/kg/day. No maternal effects were seen on body weight, food consumption, necropsy findings or organ weights. External, skeletal and visceral findings revealed no adverse effects of ONO-1101 on fetuses. From the above results, it is estimated that the no-toxic dose level of ONO-1101 under these experimental conditions is 25 mg/kg/day for dams and 100 mg/kg for fetuses.

Distribution and localization of galectin purified from Rana catesbeiana oocytes

Galectins are a family of lectins that recognize beta-D-galactosides independently of calcium ions, and are widely distributed in animals. To characterize a galectin previously purified from oocytes of Rana catesbeiana (American bullfrog), we studied its distribution and localization in several tissues from this frog. Hemagglutination assay and western blotting showed that this lectin is present in many tissues including the liver, skin, kidney, skeletal muscle, and sciatic nerve, but is particularly concentrated in the ovary. Light microscopic immunohistochemistry showed that this lectin is localized in such places as cell-cell junctions, basement membranes, extracellular matrix, or secretory substances in several organs, indicating that this galectin is mainly distributed extracellularly. However, in the ovary, light microscopy showed that this lectin is present in or associated with the yolk platelet. Electron microscopy further revealed that it is localized in the periphery of the yolk platelet (the yolk plasm), but not in the cortical granule. These results indicate that Rana oocytes contain abundant galectin in their yolk platelets in contrast to Xenopus laevis oocytes, which have been found not to contain galectins but other classes of lectins in their yolk platelets and cortical granules.

Action spectrum for induction of promoter activity of phenylalanine ammonia-lyase gene by UV in carrot suspension cells

The full-length promoter (-2335) of the carrot (Daucus carota) phenylalanine ammonia-lyase gene (gDcPAL1) fused to the luciferase reporter gene was transiently transformed to carrot protoplasts by electroporation, and the promoter activity induced by monochromatic UV light of various wavelengths was examined. The action spectrum constructed from the fluence-response curves showed a single peak at around 280 nm, suggesting that the activation of the gDcPAL1 promoter is categorizable as one of the UVB light responses. The same assay system was applied to variously truncated gDcPAL1 promoters and to CaMV35S promoter fusion with various parts 5'-upstream of the gDcPAL1 promoter. The region from -396 to -190 (relative to the transcription start site) fused to the CaMV35S core (-90) promoter showed a 280 nm-dominant response. However, gDcPAL1 promoters truncated above -570 and -396, although they contain the region between -396 and -190, did not show such a typical UVB response, i.e. they responded to 260 nm light as much as to 280 nm light. The promoter truncated to below -190 also responded to 260 nm light as much as to 280 nm light. Therefore we assumed that the gDcPAL1 promoter is composed of three functionally different parts: the upstream above -570 (modulator), the region from -396 to -190 (UVB responsive) and the down-stream below -190 (UVB and C responsive). The overall UVB response of the gDcPAL1 full-length promoter is explained as the result of interaction of these three components.

D-galactoside-specific lectins from the body wall of an echiuroid (Urechis unicinctus) and two annelids (Neanthes japonica and Marphysa sanguinea)

Lectins recognizing D-galactosides were purified from the body wall of an echiuroid; Urechis unicinctus and two annelids; Neanthes japonica and Marphysa sanguinea, with single step lactosyl-agarose affinity column chromatography. SDS-PAGE under reduced and non-reduced conditions showed that U. unicinctus lectin had a major (36 kDa) and two minor (40 and 14 kDa) proteins, and that N. japonica lectin and M. sanguinea lectin had single 33 and 35 kDa proteins, respectively. Lectins were solubilized in the presence of lactose from tissues, and all polypeptides were shown to have sugar binding activity. The antisera raised against U. unicinctus lectin and N. japonica lectin crossreacted with each other but did not crossreact with bull frog (Rana catesbeiana) egg galectin-1 or a D-galactoside-specific lectin purified from sea urchin (Anthocidaris crassispina) eggs. These echiuroid and annelid lectins are immunologically similar, but distinct from members of the vertebrate galectin family.

The mouse extracellular signal-regulated kinase 2 gene. Gene structure and characterization of the promoter

ERK2 (extracellular-signal regulated kinase 2, also known as p42 mitogen-activated protein kinase) is an integral member of the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade that is crucial for many cellular events such as proliferation and differentiation. Here, we determined the genomic organization of the Erk2 gene and characterized its promoter. The Erk2 gene spans over 60 kilobases, and the coding region is split into eight exons. In the coding region, exon-intron organization was exactly conserved between the two mouse genes for ERK2 and ERK1 except one junction shifted by one nucleotide. Primer extension and S1 nuclease analyses identified two major transcription start sites located at -219 and -223 relative to the translation start site. The 5'-flanking sequence lacked TATA box but contained a CCAAT box located approximately 60 base pairs upstream of transcription start sites. Sequencing of the 5'-flanking region also revealed potential cis-acting elements for multiple transcriptional regulatory factors including Sp1, zif268, Ets, CREB, and PuF sites. The promoter activity of the 5'-flanking region was examined using chloramphenicol acetyltransferase as a reporter gene. Transient transfection experiments using Chinese hamster ovary cells defined a maximal promoter activity in a 371-base pair region immediately upstream of the translation start site. Furthermore, we demonstrated, using mouse P19 embryonal carcinoma cells, that this 371-base pair sequence is likely to be sufficient to confer the transcriptional activation of the ERK2 promoter during the retinoic acid-induced differentiation of P19 cells.

In vivo induction of apoptosis in the thymus by administration of mycobacterial cord factor (trehalose 6,6'-dimycolate)

It is reported that some bacteria or bacterial components cause thymic atrophy via the apoptotic process. The present study demonstrated for the first time in vivo induction of apoptosis in the mouse thymus by mycobacterial cord factor (CF) (trehalose 6,6'-dimycolate). When 300 microg of purified CF from Mycobacterium tuberculosis was intravenously administered to BALB/c mice in the form of water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) emulsion, thymic atrophy and pulmonary granulomas were induced with a peak on day 7, whereas, in the form of liposomes, CF induced thymic atrophy on days 14 to 21 in parallel with the development of hepatic granulomas. Thymic atrophy resulted from the depletion of cortical lymphocytes via apoptosis as revealed by DNA fragmentation and karyorrhectic changes. In contrast, mycobacterial sulfatide (2,3,6,6'-tetraacyl trehalose 2'-sulfate) caused neither thymic atrophy nor granuloma formation. Compared to lipopolysaccharide-induced thymocyte apoptosis, CF (w/o/w)-induced thymocyte apoptosis developed more slowly, reached a maximum later, and lasted longer but was less intense. Although serum tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) levels in CF-treated mice were not significantly elevated, administration of anti-TNF-alpha antibody almost completely inhibited thymic atrophy and granuloma formation. Serum corticosterone levels were only slightly elevated by CF administration. The present results indicate that mycobacterial CF induces thymic atrophy via apoptosis, which is closely linked with granuloma formation.

Somatic variation during long-term subculturing of plant cells caused by insertion of a transposable element in a phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) gene

We have identified a new En/Spm-like transposable element, Tdc1, in the 5' flanking region of a phenylalanine ammonia-lyase gene (gDcPAL1) that is normally induced by transferring cells of carrot suspension cultures to fresh liquid medium (transfer or dilution effect). The initial integration into gDcPAL1 occurred more than 4 years after culture initiation. Tdc1 was first detected in gDcPAL1 genomic clones of a genomic library made from cells of the same cultured cell line 7 years after its initiation and thus following repeated subculturing. Twelve years after initiation, about 5-10% of the cells had Tdc1 inserted into the gDcPAL1 gene, indicating that Tdc1 insertion into gDcPAL1 occurred in one (or more) cell(s) during the first 4-7 years of subculturing. These mutant cells did not disappear during numerous passages; instead the proportion of cells having this Tdc1 inserted into gDcPAL1 has been increasing over the last 5 years. The promoter activity and the inducibility by transfer/dilution of the gDcPAL1 gene harboring Tdc1 is reduced relative to wild type. Finally, we show that insertion of a transposable element is one of the mechanisms that can cause variation of plant cell cultures during repeated subculture.

Purification of a 63 kDa beta-D-galactoside binding lectin from cuttlefish, Todarodes pacificus

A beta-D-galactoside binding lectin (TPL) was newly purified from the body walls of the cuttlefish, Todarodes pacificus with lactosyl-agarose affinity column chromatography and reversed-phase HPLC. Many of the biological properties of the lectin were similar to those of the representative animal beta-D-galactoside binding lectin, "galectin". However, with a molecular mass of 63 kDa under reducing and non-reducing conditions on SDS-PAGE, TPL is larger than any previously reported galectins. The native molecular mass of TPL was estimated to be about 60 kDa by gel filtration, suggesting that it exists as a monomer and that a single polypeptide containing at least two sugar binding sites. The antisera raised against TPL did not crossreact with bull frog egg galectin-1, suggesting that TPL is immunologically distinct from the lower vertebrate galectin.

Vascular endothelial growth factor expression in primary esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Association with angiogenesis and tumor progression

BACKGROUND

Angiogenesis is essential for solid tumor growth and metastasis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a recently identified growth factor with significant angiogenic properties, may be a major tumor angiogenesis regulator in vivo. Conversely, there have been few studies of the association between angiogenic factor expression and angiogenesis in esophageal carcinoma. The authors examined VEGF expression and microvessel density in esophageal squamous cell carcinomas to clarify the association of VEGF expression with the clinicopathologic features of the disease.

METHODS

Surgical specimens from 75 primary esophageal squamous cell carcinomas were examined for VEGF expression and microvessel density by immunocytochemical staining. Original anti-VEGF polyclonal antibody was used to determine VEGF expression, and antifactor VIII antibody was used to determine microvessel density. The isoforms of VEGF mRNA were determined by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Thirty-five (46.7%) of the 75 esophageal carcinomas were positive for VEGF protein. There was a close correlation between microvessel density and VEGF positivity (P = 0.0002). High VEGF levels were significantly associated with well differentiated tumors, advanced stage (depth of invasion and blood vessel invasion), high incidence of distant metastases after surgery, and poorer prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that VEGF expression is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis by stimulating angiogenesis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Interaction of von Willebrand factor with the extracellular matrix and glycocalicin under static conditions

The binding of human von Willebrand factor (vWF) to a variety of extracellular matrix components immobilized on plates and the binding of vWF to platelet glycoprotein Ib (GPIb) after interacting with these matrix components were examined by means of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. vWF preferably bound to type III collagen, whereas it did not significantly bind to type I, IV, V, or VI collagen, fibronectin, laminin, elastin, or proteoglycans. Soluble type III collagen did not bind to vWF coated on plates and showed a little effect on the vWF binding to the immobilized collagen, suggesting that solid-phase collagen is important for the interaction with vWF. When glycocalicin, the N-terminal carbohydrate-rich extracellular domain of GPIb alpha exhibiting the vWF-binding activity, was added to vWF bound to collagen type III, no significant binding of glycocalicin was observed, but it bound to vWF in the presence of botrocetin, a vWF modulator protein isolated from Bothrops jararaca snake venom. These results indicate that vWF immobilized on collagen can interact with GPIb but that binding of vWF to the collagen matrix alone is insufficient for modulating vWF so that it interacts with GPIb under static conditions. Another unknown physiological modulator functionally mimicking botrocetin or high-shear stress may be involved in the platelet adhesion to extracellular matrix in the early stage of hemostasis.

Vascular endothelial growth factor expression in primary esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. Association with angiogenesis and tumor progression

BACKGROUND

Angiogenesis is essential for solid tumor growth and metastasis. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a recently identified growth factor with significant angiogenic properties, may be a major tumor angiogenesis regulator in vivo. Conversely, there have been few studies of the association between angiogenic factor expression and angiogenesis in esophageal carcinoma. The authors examined VEGF expression and microvessel density in esophageal squamous cell carcinomas to clarify the association of VEGF expression with the clinicopathologic features of the disease.

METHODS

Surgical specimens from 75 primary esophageal squamous cell carcinomas were examined for VEGF expression and microvessel density by immunocytochemical staining. Original anti-VEGF polyclonal antibody was used to determine VEGF expression, and antifactor VIII antibody was used to determine microvessel density. The isoforms of VEGF mRNA were determined by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Thirty-five (46.7%) of the 75 esophageal carcinomas were positive for VEGF protein. There was a close correlation between microvessel density and VEGF positivity (P = 0.0002). High VEGF levels were significantly associated with well differentiated tumors, advanced stage (depth of invasion and blood vessel invasion), high incidence of distant metastases after surgery, and poorer prognosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that VEGF expression is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis by stimulating angiogenesis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma.

Gene expression of granulocyte colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) in non-small cell lung cancer

Autonomous or continuous granulocyte colony-stimulating factor. (G-CSF)-production in malignant neoplasms is considered to induce leukocytosis without apparent infection. We examined G-CSF gene expression in human non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and discussed its clinicopathological significance. Northern blot analysis revealed G-CSF gene expression in 14 of 84 surgical specimens (16.7%, 10/30 squamous cell carcinoma, 3/50 adenocarcinoma, 1/4 large cell carcinoma). Eight patients (57.1%, 8/14) with NSCLC showing G-CSF gene-expression had peripheral blood leukocytosis (> 8,000/microliter). The prognosis was significantly worse in 10 stage I or II NSCLC showing G-CSF gene expression (p < 0.01, Cox-Mantel test). These findings suggest that G-CSF gene expression is common event in the early stage of primary NSCLC, while it cannot completely explain the leukocytosis induced by lung cancer.

Cooperative alkylation by duocarmycin A-distamycin A heterodimer

Duo A (Duo) normally alkylates adenine N3 at the 3' end of A + T-rich sequence in DNA. The addition of another minor groove binder, dist A (Dist), dramatically modulate the site of DNA alkylation by Duo with great acceleration of the reaction rate. In order to examine the mode of alkylation, the kinetics of the reaction under various conditions were examined. Based on the simulation of experimental data, a new reaction pathway was proposed.

An N-linked high-mannose type oligosaccharide, expressed at the major outer membrane protein of Chlamydia trachomatis, mediates attachment and infectivity of the microorganism to HeLa cells

The structure of the carbohydrate of the 40-kD major outer membrane component of Chlamydia trachomatis and its role in defining infectivity of the organism were investigated. The oligosaccharides were released from the glycoprotein by N-glycanase digestion, coupled to a 2-aminopyridyl residue, and subjected to two-dimensional sugar mapping technique. The major fractions consisted of "high-mannose type" oligosaccharides containing 8-9 mannose residues. Bi- and tri-antennary "complex type" oligosaccharides having terminal galactose were detected as minor components. These oligosaccharides were N-linked and contained no sialic acid. This structural profile is consistent with our previous characterization based on lectin-binding and glycosidase digestion. Functional specificity of identified chlamydial oligosaccharides was analyzed using glycopeptides fractionated from ovalbumin and structurally defined oligosaccharides from other sources. The glycopeptide fraction having high-mannose type oligosaccharide, as compared to those having complex or hybrid-type, showed a stronger inhibitory effect on attachment and infectivity of chlamydial organisms to HeLa cells. Among high-mannose type oligosaccharides, the strongest inhibition was observed with mannose 8 as compared with mannose 6, 7, or 9. These results indicate that a specific high-mannose type oligosaccharide linked to the major outer membrane protein of C. trachomatis mediates attachment and infectivity of the organism to HeLa cells.

[A case of catamenial pneumothorax with elevated level of serum CA 125]

A 40-year old woman had experienced repeated spontaneous pneumothorax on the right side at the beginning of each menstrual period for one year. The level of serum CA125 was high at 60 ng/ml. Right thoracotomy revealed the presence of multiple darkly-pigmented spots and several pinhole like perforations near the central tendon of the diaphragm. The partial resection of the diaphragm was done, endometrial tissues were detected histologically. Tha patient has been asymptomatic after operation and the level of serum CA125 is normal.

P-glycoprotein-mediated acquired multidrug resistance of human lung cancer cells in vivo

We examined whether the increased expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) encoded by the human multidrug resistance gene MDR1 is related to the acquired multidrug resistance of lung cancer in vivo. We estimated the chemosensitivity of lung cancer xenografts (LC-6, adenocarcinoma; Lu-24, small-cell cancer) by calculation of relative tumour growth (T/C%, treated/control) in vivo, based on statistical significance determined by the Mann-Whitney U test (P < 0.01, one-sided). MDR1 gene expression levels were evaluated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay. P-gp production and P-gp localisation were examined by Western blotting and by immunohistochemical analysis respectively. LC-6 and Lu-24 were initially sensitive to both vincristine (VCR, 1.6 mg kg-1: LC-6, 45%; Lu-24, 39%) and doxorubicin (DOX, 12 mg kg-1: LC-6, 26%; Lu-24, 27%) in vivo. VCR-resistant variants (LC-6R, 66% and Lu-24R, 68%) selected with VCR (0.4 mg kg-1, x 9) significantly acquired cross-resistance to DOX (LC-6R, 55% and Lu-24R, 55% respectively). RT-PCR assay showed increased levels of MDR1 expression in LC-6R and Lu-24R with stable MDR1 expression levels. P-gp expression levels were elevated, and the percentage of P-gp-positive tumour cells increased in both LC-6R and Lu-24R. These results suggest that P-gp/MDR1 overexpression is related to acquired multidrug resistance in lung cancer in vivo.

Purification and characterization of bitiscetin, a novel von Willebrand factor modulator protein from Bitis arietans snake venom

We have screened 20 snake venoms and purified a novel snake venom protein, named bitiscetin, from Bitis arietans venom that specifically binds to human von Willebrand factor (vWF) and induces platelet agglutination. Bitiscetin showed a heterodimeric structure composed of disulfide-linked alpha (16kDa) and beta (13kDa) subunits on SDS-PAGE and showed a basic nature with pI value of 9.1, in contrast to botrocetin (pI 4.6), a vWF modulator isolated from another snake (Bothrops jararaca) venom. Bitiscetin-induced platelet agglutination was dependent on vWF and platelet membrane glycoprotein (GP) Ib, but not on Ca2+ and GPIIb/IIIa. vWF bound to bitiscetin but not to botrocetin electroblotted to a PVDF membrane after SDS-PAGE and this binding was diminished after reduction of disulfide bonds of bitiscetin. Bitiscetin did not cross-react to anti-botrocetin monoclonal antibodies. These results suggest that bitiscetin directly interacts with vWF and requires the protein conformation for its interaction as well as botrocetin, but its interaction manner with vWF appears to be different from that of botrocetin.

Immunohistochemical analysis of the nm23 gene product (NDP kinase) expression in astrocytic neoplasms

The expression levels of nm23-H1 have been reported to correlate with the metastatic potential of some tumours. We have treated a child with a rare case of astrocytoma with diffuse osteoblastic metastases. We therefore decided to examine the expression of the nm23 gene product in 24 gliomas in order to clarify the association of its expression with the clinical features of the disease. A polyclonal antibody against a GST/nm23-H1 fusion protein was raised in rabbits. Twenty-four specimens, including 5 recurrent gliomas and one extraneural metastasis, were obtained from 19 patients treated surgically between 1990 and 1993 in our hospital. Immunohistochemical staining was performed on paraffin sections using an avidin-biotinyl peroxidase complex method. Of the 24 astrocytic neoplasms, 3 (12.5%) specimens from one patient with diffuse bony metastases stained intensely with nm23-H1. Two specimens obtained from glioblastoma multiforme patients stained weakly. The other 19 specimens were negative for nm23-H1 expression. Little or no nm23 expression was observed in adjacent nontumourous cerebral tissues. The results suggest that high levels of nm23 expression might correlate with extraneural metastatic potential in astrocytic neoplasms.

Spontaneous complete necrosis of hepatocellular carcinoma

We report a 69-yr-old female with a liver mass which, when surgically resected, was believed to be the spontaneous complete necrosis of hepatocellular carcinoma. The preoperative level of alpha-fetoprotein was high at 1050 ng/ml, and the mass was grossly an encapsulated nodular lesion with septa. Histologically, no viable tumor cells were demonstrated. The alpha-fetoprotein level decreased to a normal range. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient is alive and well 1 yr after surgery.