Traditional Chinese herb Dihuang Yinzi (DY) plays neuroprotective and anti-dementia role in rats of ischemic brain injury

AIM OF THE STUDY

Traditional Chinese herb Dihuang Yinzi (DY) is well known to treat neurological diseases by traditional Chinese medical practitioners. This study is to elucidate its neuroprotective and anti-dementia role in ischemic brain injury.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of DY on the pathohistological changes, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, Morris water maze task, expression of synaptophysin (SYP) and extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) of hippocampi of rats with ischemic brain injury were investigated.

RESULTS

This study showed that DY not only significantly decreased the number of TUNEL-positive cells but also reduced the LDH release of hippocampus of model rat. Morris water maze test showed that the ability of learning and memory of rats dramatically impaired after ischemic brain injury. However, DY ameliorated the impairment of learning and memory of ischemic rats. Furthermore, western blotting and immunohistochemical data showed that the expression of extracellular regulated protein and synaptophysin, which correlates with synaptic formation and function, decreased after ischemic insult. However, DY inhibited the reduction of ERK an SYP expression in a dose-dependent way.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that DY possesses neuroprotective and anti-dementia properties, at least in part, by preventing the loss of neural cells and synapses in ischemic brain injury.

Ligand-independent androgen receptor variants derived from splicing of cryptic exons signify hormone-refractory prostate cancer

Suppression of androgen production and function provides palliation but not cure in men with prostate cancer (PCa). Therapeutic failure and progression to hormone-refractory PCa (HRPC) are often accompanied by molecular alterations involving the androgen receptor (AR). In this study, we report novel forms of AR alteration that are prevalent in HRPC. Through in silico sequence analysis and subsequent experimental validation studies, we uncovered seven AR variant transcripts lacking the reading frames for the ligand-binding domain due to splicing of "intronic" cryptic exons to the upstream exons encoding the AR DNA-binding domain. We focused on the two most abundantly expressed variants, AR-V1 and AR-V7, for more detailed analysis. AR-V1 and AR-V7 mRNA showed an average 20-fold higher expression in HRPC (n = 25) when compared with hormone-naive PCa (n = 82; P < 0.0001). Among the hormone-naive PCa, higher expression of AR-V7 predicted biochemical recurrence following surgical treatment (P = 0.012). Polyclonal antibodies specific to AR-V7 detected the AR-V7 protein frequently in HRPC specimens but rarely in hormone-naive PCa specimens. AR-V7 was localized in the nuclei of cultured PCa cells under androgen-depleted conditions, and constitutively active in driving the expression of canonical androgen-responsive genes, as revealed by both AR reporter assays and expression microarray analysis. These results suggest a novel mechanism for the development of HRPC that warrants further investigation. In addition, as expression markers for lethal PCa, these novel AR variants may be explored as potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for advanced PCa.

Glycosylphosphatidylinositol-anchored protein deficiency confers resistance to apoptosis in PNH

OBJECTIVE

Investigate the contribution of PIG-A mutations to clonal expansion in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Primary CD34+ hematopoietic progenitors from PNH patients were assayed for annexin-V positivity by flow cytometry in a cell-mediated killing assay using autologous effectors from PNH patients or allogeneic effectors from healthy controls. To specifically assess the role of the PIG-A mutation in the development of clonal dominance and address confounders of secondary mutation and differential immune attack that can confound experiments using primary cells, we established an inducible PIG-A CD34+ myeloid cell line, TF-1. Apoptosis resistance was assessed after exposure to allogeneic effectors, NK92 cells (an interleukin-2-dependent cell line with the phenotype and function of activated natural killer [NK] cells), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and gamma-irradiation. Apoptosis was measured by annexin-V staining and caspase 3/7 activity.

RESULTS

In PNH patients, CD34+ hematopoietic progenitors lacking glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored proteins (GPI-AP(-)) were less susceptible than GPI-AP+ CD34+ precursors to autologous (8% vs 49%; p < 0.05) and allogeneic (28% vs 58%; p < 0.05) cell-mediated killing from the same patients. In the inducible PIG-A model, GPI-AP(-) TF-1 cells exhibited less apoptosis than induced, GPI-AP+ TF-1 cells in response to allogeneic cell-mediated killing, NK92-mediated killing, TNF-alpha, and gamma-irradiation. GPI-AP(-) TF-1 cells maintained resistance to apoptosis when effectors were raised against GPI-AP(-) cells, arguing against a GPI-AP being the target of immune attack in PNH. NK92-mediated killing was partially inhibited with blockade by specific antibodies to the stress-inducible GPI-AP ULBP1 and ULBP2 that activate immune effectors. Clonal competition experiments demonstrate that the mutant clone expands over time under proapoptotic conditions with TNF-alpha.

CONCLUSION

PIG-A mutations contribute to clonal expansion in PNH by conferring a survival advantage to hematopoietic progenitors under proapoptotic stresses.

Effect of total flavonoids of Chrysanthemum indicum on the apoptosis of synoviocytes in joint of adjuvant arthritis rats

Chrysanthemum is a traditional Chinese medicine used in China to treat inflammatory diseases. The total flavonoids Chrysanthemum indicum (TFC) were extracted from the dried bud of Chrysanthemum indicum. Our previous study had demonstrated that TFC was a new class of effective anti-inflammation, analgesia and immunoloregulation agents. In this study, we established an adjuvant arthritis (AA) model by injection of Freund's Complete Adjuvant (FCA) to investigate the effect of TFC on the apoptosis of synoviocytes in AA Rats. Synoviocytes isolated from knee joint of rats were treated with different doses of TFC in vitro. Synoviocytes proliferation was measured by MTT assay, and DNA fragmentations were evaluated on agarose gel electrophoresis. The levels of caspase-3 cleaved fragments were analyzed by Western blot. The annexin V stain assay was used to explore the inhibition of caspase-3 on the amelioration of synoviocytes apoptosis. The results showed that TFC inhibited the proliferation of synoviocytes. Electrophoresis showed higher ladders of DNA bands in the TFC group. Cleaved fragments of caspase-3 were increased significantly. Furthermore, the apoptotic synoviocytes were markedly decreased by the caspase-3 specific inhibitor. These results suggest that TFC could induce synoviocytes apoptosis and suppress proliferation of synoviocytes in adjuvant-induced arthritis rats.

Analysis of expression and comparative profile of normal placental tissue proteins and those in preeclampsia patients using proteomic approaches

Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex and serious condition of pregnancy. Trophoblasts in human placenta can be separated and collected by laser capture micro-dissection (LCM). Protein in trophoblasts have been extracted and separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), finally 962 unique proteins are identified by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Comparison of differential expressed proteins in normal and those in PE are investigated. Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE) and MS were used to identify differential expressed proteins. 13 differential expressed proteins include signal transduction protein, molecular chaperone, cell skeleton proteins are identified, in which 3 proteins are down-regulated and 10 proteins are up-regulated. They might be correlated with the cause of PE.

Rebooting the immune system with high-dose cyclophosphamide for treatment of refractory myasthenia gravis

A small but important proportion of patients with myasthenia gravis (MG) are refractory to conventional immunotherapy. We have treated 12 such patients by "rebooting" the immune system with high-dose cyclophosphamide (Hi Cy, 200 mg/kg), which largely eliminates the mature immune system, while leaving hematopoietic precursors intact. The objective of this report is to describe the clinical and immunologic results of Hi Cy treatment of refractory MG. We have followed 12 patients clinically for 1-9 years, and have analyzed their humoral and cellular immunologic parameters. Hi Cy is safe and effective. All but one of the patients experienced dramatic clinical improvement for variable periods from 5 months to 7.5 years, lasting for more than 1 year in seven of the patients. Two patients are still in treatment-free remission at 5.5 and 7.5 years, and five have achieved responsiveness to immunosuppressive agents that were previously ineffective. Hi Cy typically reduced, but did not completely eliminate, antibodies to the autoantigen AChR or to tetanus or diphtheria toxin; re-immunization with tetanus or diphtheria toxoid increased the antibody levels. Despite prior thymectomy, T cell receptor excision circles, generally considered to reflect thymic emigrant T cells, were produced by all patients. Hi Cy treatment results in effective, but often not permanent, remission in most refractory myasthenic patients, suggesting that the immune system is in fact "rebooted," but not "reformatted." We therefore recommend that treatment of refractory MG with Hi Cy be followed with maintenance immunotherapy.

[Analysis of reliability and validity of the Chinese version of voice handicap index (VHI)]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of voice handicap index (VHI).

METHODS

The cross-cultural adaptation of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) measures was used to evaluate the Chinese version of VHI. Five hundred forty six dysphonic patients and 80 control subjects were included, 30 of patients and 20 of control subjects also had Hong Kong version VHI test simultaneously.

RESULTS

The internal consistency reliability of overall VHI scores and three subscale scores of the Chinese version of VHI were 0.8657-0.9517. The reliability coefficients (test to retest, 2-week interval) was 0.992 (P < 0.001). The correlation coefficient of overall VHI scores and three subscale scores and internal subscale scores were 0.643-0.904 (P < 0.01). There were no significant difference between the Chinese version and Hong Kong Chinese version (Z = 0.397, P = 0.691 ) with high dependability (r = 0.995, P < 0.001). The factor analysis of construct validity shows that the eigenvalue of 6 factors is above 1. The cumulative proportion was 77.24%. The loading was higher than 0.4 among every item. VHI total scores were significantly higher in dysphonic patients than in control subjects (Z = 17.69, P = 0.000). This is also true for all VHI subscores in the functional (Z = 14.14, P = 0.000), physical (Z = 17.68, P = 0.000) and emotional domains (Z = 15.50, P = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

The Chinese version of VHI had a good reliability and validity. It can be used to evaluate dysphonic patients.

Skp2 regulates G2/M progression in a p53-dependent manner

Targeted proteasomal degradation mediated by E3 ubiquitin ligases controls cell cycle progression, and alterations in their activities likely contribute to malignant cell proliferation. S phase kinase-associated protein 2 (Skp2) is the F-box component of an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex that targets p27(Kip1) and cyclin E1 to the proteasome. In human melanoma, Skp2 is highly expressed, regulated by mutant B-RAF, and required for cell growth. We show that Skp2 depletion in melanoma cells resulted in a tetraploid cell cycle arrest. Surprisingly, co-knockdown of p27(Kip1) or cyclin E1 failed to prevent the tetraploid arrest induced by Skp2 knockdown. Enhanced Aurora A phosphorylation and repression of G2/M regulators cyclin B1, cyclin-dependent kinase 1, and cyclin A indicated a G2/early M phase arrest in Skp2-depleted cells. Furthermore, expression of nuclear localized cyclin B1 prevented tetraploid accumulation after Skp2 knockdown. The p53 status is most frequently wild type in melanoma, and the tetraploid arrest and down-regulation of G2/M regulatory genes were strongly dependent on wild-type p53 expression. In mutant p53 melanoma lines, Skp2 depletion did not induce cell cycle arrest despite up-regulation of p27(Kip1). These data indicate that elevated Skp2 expression may overcome p53-dependent cell cycle checkpoints in melanoma cells and highlight Skp2 actions that are independent of p27(Kip1) degradation.

[Professor HUANG Xuan-Wei's clinical experience in acupuncture and moxibustion]

Professor HUANG's clinical acupuncture and moxibustion characters are introduced from selection of acupoints, needles used, needling methods, etc. Based on the differentiation of symptoms and signs, he is good at using pair-points and syndrome differentiation, point-through-point acupuncture and combined many methods, and pays attention to adjusting mental activity, promoting flow of qi, treating both body and mental treatment. He also uses other therapies besides acupuncture and adopts good advance from others, so as to greatly increase clinical therapeutic effects.

[Effect of electroacupuncture of different acupoints on plasma and cerebral endothelin and CGRP contents in acute cerebral ischemia rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the underlying mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) of "Shuigou" (GV 26) and "Baihui" (GV 20), "Ganshu" (BL 18) and "Shenshu" (BL 23) in resisting cerebral ischemia (CI).

METHODS

Sixty male SD rats were randomly divided into pseudo-operation group, model group, GV26-GV20 group, and BL18-BL23 group, with 15 cases in each. CI model was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO). EA (2/30 Hz,2 mA) was applied to GV26, GV20, BL18 and BL23 for 30 min every time and for 6 times. Neuroethologic scores of the rats were evaluated, plasma and cerebral endothelin (ET) and calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) contents were determined by radioimmunorassay.

RESULTS

1) After MCAO for 72 hours, the rats' neuroethologic score, plasma and cerebral ET contents in model group increased significantly in comparison with those of pseudo-operation group (P<0.05, 0.01), and plasma and cerebral CGRP levels decreased considerably (P<0.01). Compared with model group, the neuroethologic scores, cerebral ET contents of GV26-GV20 and BL18-BL23 groups decreased significantly after CI (P<0.01); and plasma and cerebral CGRP levels in two EA groups increased significantly (P<0.05, 0.01). No significant differences were found between two EA groups in these 3 indexes (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

EA of GV26-GV20 and BL18-BL23 can improve CI rats' behavior activity, which may be related to its effects in lowering cerebral ET and raising blood and cerebral CGRP levels.

Diameter control of tungsten oxide nanowires as grown by thermal evaporation

Tungsten oxide nanowires with controllable diameter were synthesized on Si substrates by thermal evaporation of tungsten trioxide powder in a tube furnace. Depending on the temperature of the source (900-1000 °C), tungsten oxide W(18)O(49) nanowires with diameters ranging from 10 to 100 nm are obtained with high yield. The exponential dependence of the nanowire diameter on the source temperature leads to an energy of about 2.0 eV. The growth process is discussed; it is believed to be a kinetic effect.

Genetic and QTL analysis of resistance to Xiphinema index in a grapevine cross

Resistance to the dagger nematode Xiphinema index has been an important objective in grape rootstock breeding programs. This nematode not only causes severe feeding damage to the root system, but it also vectors grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLV), the causal agent of fanleaf degeneration and one of the most severe viral diseases of grape. The established screening procedures for dagger nematode resistance are time consuming and can produce inconsistent results. A fast and reliable greenhouse-based system for screening resistance to X. index that is suitable for genetic studies and capable of evaluating breeding populations is needed. In this report, the dynamics of nematode numbers, gall formation, and root weight loss were investigated using a variety of soil mixes and pot sizes over a 52-week period. Results indicated that the number of galls formed was correlated with the size of the nematode population and with the degree of root weight loss. After inoculation with 100 nematodes, gall formation could be reliably evaluated in 4-8 weeks in most plant growth conditions and results were obtained 6 months more rapidly than past evaluation methods. This modified X. index resistance screening method was successfully applied to 185 of the 188 F(1) progeny from a cross of D8909-15 x F8909-17 (the 9621 population), which segregates for a form of X. index resistance originally derived from Vitis arizonica. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis was carried out on both parental genetic maps of 255 markers using MapQTL 4.0. Results revealed that X. index resistance is controlled by a major QTL, designated Xiphinema index Resistance 1 (XiR1), near marker VMC5a10 on chromosome 19. The XiR1 QTL was supported by a LOD score of 36.9 and explained 59.9% of the resistance variance in the mapping population.

Performance and comparison of the Cockcroft-Gault and simplified Modification of Diet in Renal Disease formulae in estimating glomerular filtration rate in a Chinese Type 2 diabetic population

AIMS

Our aim was to assess performances of the Cockcroft-Gault and simplified Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) formulae in estimating glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in Chinese diabetic populations and their association with vascular risks.

METHODS

A total of 1009 patients with Type 2 diabetes were categorized into low estimated GFR groups (GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m(2)) and control groups by the two equations. The performances of these formulae were assessed at different stages of kidney function. Carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) and the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy or albuminuria were compared among the groups. The ability of these formulae to identify established vascular risk markers using sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were also compared.

RESULTS

The prevalence of low estimated GFR was 32.7% with the Cockcroft-Gault formula and 5.2% with the MDRD formula, respectively. In low estimated GFR subjects by the MDRD formula, IMT was significantly thicker than those by the Cockcroft-Gault formula (1.2 mm vs. 1.0 mm; P < 0.05), with a higher prevalence of albuminuria (78.4 vs. 52.8%, P < 0.05) and diabetic retinopathy (46.5 vs. 30.5%; P < 0.05). The Cockcroft-Gault formula gave a specificity of 71.7% and a sensitivity of 37.0%, and the MDRD formula gave a specificity of 96.6% and a sensitivity of 7.9% in estimating low GFR relevant for established vascular risks.

CONCLUSIONS

These formulae performed differently in Chinese diabetic populations. The simplified MDRD formula is minimally superior to the Cockcroft-Gault formula for its high specificity and positive predictive values in estimating low GFR relevant for vascular risks.

[Prognosis of metabolic syndrome in coronary artery disease patients of different genders]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the prevalence and characteristics of metabolic syndrome (MS) in the patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) of different genders who underwent revascularization.

METHODS

The clinical data of 2596 patients in the DESIRE (Drug-eluting Stent Impact on Revascularization) study who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) were analyzed and the patients were followed up till death. MS was diagnosed based on the Chinese standard (modified ATP III).

RESULTS

The mean follow-up time was 828.8 +/- 373.2 days. 1139 of the 2596 patients were diagnosed as with MS. The prevalence of MS in the female patients was 50.9%, significantly higher than that in the male patients (41.8%, P < 0.0001). Complication of MS was the only predictive factor of poor prognosis in female CAD patients (OR = 2.019, 95% CI = 1.751 - 2.506, P = 0.023). Fasting blood glucose >or= 110 mg/dl was responsible for most of the increased risk associated with MS (adjusted OR 2.511, 95% CI 1.396 approximately 4.511, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

In comparison with the male patients the female patients undergoing revascularization have a higher he prevalence of MS and worse prognosis. In the 4 elements of MS hyperglycemia is directly associated with prognosis.

Chemoprevention of familial adenomatous polyposis by natural dietary compounds sulforaphane and dibenzoylmethane alone and in combination in ApcMin/+ mouse

Cancer chemopreventive agent sulforaphane (SFN) and dibenzoylmethane (DBM) showed antitumorigenesis effects in several rodent carcinogenesis models. In this study, we investigated the cancer chemopreventive effects and the underlying molecular mechanisms of dietary administration of SFN and DBM alone or in combination in the ApcMin/+ mice model. Male ApcMin/+ mice (12 per group) at age of 5 weeks were given control AIN-76A diet, diets containing 600 ppm SFN and 1.0% DBM, or a combination of 300 ppm SFN and 0.5% DBM for 10 weeks. Mice were then sacrificed, and tumor numbers and size were examined. Microarray analysis, Western blotting, ELISA, and immunohistochemical staining were done to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms of cancer chemopreventive effects of SFN and DBM. Dietary administrations of SFN and DBM alone or in combination significantly inhibited the development of intestinal adenomas by 48% (P=0.002), 50% (P=0.001), and 57% (P<0.001), respectively. Dietary administration of 600 ppm SFN and 1.0% DBM also reduced colon tumor numbers by 80% (P=0.016) and 60% (P=0.103), respectively, whereas the combination of SFN and DBM treatment blocked the colon tumor development (P=0.002). Both SFN and DBM treatments resulted in decreased levels of prostaglandin E2 or leukotriene B4 in intestinal polyps or apparently normal mucosa. Treatments also led to the inhibition of cell survival and growth-related signaling pathways (such as Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinase) or biomarkers (such as cyclooxygenase-2, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cleaved caspases, cyclin D1, and p21). In conclusion, our results showed that both SFN and DBM alone as well as their combination are potent natural dietary compounds for chemoprevention of gastrointestinal cancers.

Prevalence and impact of renal insufficiency on clinical outcomes of patients undergoing coronary revascularization

BACKGROUND

Patients with renal insufficiency are more likely to die after coronary revascularization, but mild renal insufficiency is neglected and little is known about its clinical effects.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In the present study 3,025 patients grouped by estimated creatinine clearance (CrCl) were analyzed to evaluate the association between CrCl and clinical outcome. The mean serum creatinine was 1.0+/-0.4 mg/dl, with 4.3% above normal; in 65.8% CrCl was <90 ml/min. During hospitalization, there were significant differences in mortality among the groups stratified by CrCl (p<0.0001). During follow-up after hospital discharge, there were significant differences in mortality (p<0.0001), new-onset myocardial infarction (p=0.007), and stroke (p=0.032). In patients with severe renal insufficiency, the in-hospital and follow-up mortality reached 15.4% and 31.3%, respectively. The independent risk factors for all-cause death after revascularization were the mode of revascularization, age and the CrCl level. In patients with mild renal insufficiency or normal renal function, the all-cause mortality after percutaneous coronary intervention was significantly lower than that after CABG.

CONCLUSIONS

Renal insufficiency is not rare in patients undergoing coronary revascularization and in the present study even mild renal insufficiency correlated with adverse clinical outcomes after revascularization. In patients with normal renal function or mild renal insufficiency, the mode of revascularization might lead to a prognostic difference.

Intracellular metabolism and persistence of the anti-human immunodeficiency virus activity of 2',3'-didehydro-3'-deoxy-4'-ethynylthymidine, a novel thymidine analog

The therapeutic benefits of current antiretroviral therapy are limited by the evolution of drug-resistant virus and long-term toxicity. Novel antiretroviral compounds with activity against drug-resistant viruses are needed. 2',3'-didehydro-3'-deoxy-4'-ethynylthymidine (4'-Ed4T), a novel thymidine analog, has potent anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) activity, maintains considerable activity against multidrug-resistant HIV strains, and is less inhibitory to mitochondrial DNA synthesis in cell culture than its progenitor stavudine (D4T). We investigated the intracellular metabolism and anti-HIV activity of 4'-Ed4T. The profile of 4'-Ed4T metabolites was qualitatively similar to that for zidovudine (AZT), with the monophosphate metabolite as the major metabolite, in contrast to that for D4T, with relatively poor formation of total metabolites. The first phosphorylation step for 4'-Ed4T in cells was more efficient than that for D4T but less than that for AZT. The amount of 4'-Ed4T triphosphate (4'-Ed4TTP) was higher than that of AZTTP at 24 h in culture. There was a dose-dependent accumulation of 4'-Ed4T diphosphate and 4'-Ed4TTP on up-regulation of thymidylate kinase and 3-phosphoglycerate kinase expression in Tet-On RKO cells, respectively. The anti-HIV activity of 4'-Ed4T in cells persisted even after 48 h of drug removal from culture in comparison with AZT, D4T, and nevirapine (NVP). The order of increasing persistence of anti-HIV activity of these compounds after drug removal was 4'-Ed4T > D4T > AZT > NVP. In conclusion, with the persistence of 4'-Ed4TTP and persistent anti-HIV activity in cells, we anticipate less frequent dosing and fewer patient compliance issues than for D4T. 4'-Ed4T is a promising antiviral candidate for HIV type 1 chemotherapy.

Functional characterization of TIP60 sumoylation in UV-irradiated DNA damage response

The histone acetyltransferase TIP60 regulates the DNA damage response following genotoxic stress by acetylating histone and remodeling chromatin. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the TIP60-dependent response to UV-induced DNA damage remain poorly understood. To systematically analyse proteins that regulate TIP60 activity in response to UV irradiation, we performed a proteomic analysis of proteins selectively bound to TIP60 in response to UV irradiation using mass spectrometry and identified a novel regulatory mechanism by which TIP60 orchestrates transcriptional activation of p53-dependent checkpoint response in UV-irradiated cells. The initial step of this pathway involves UV-induced association of TIP60 with SUMO-conjugation enzymes and site-specific sumoylation of TIP60 at lysines 430 and 451 via Ubc9. This sumoylation initiates the relocation of TIP60 from nucleoplasm to the promyelocytic leukemia body, which is essential for the UV-irradiated DNA damage repair response via a p53-dependent pathway. Significantly, inhibition of TIP60 sumoylation by overexpression of non-sumoylatable mutant abrogates the p53-dependent DNA damage response, demonstrating the importance of TIP60 sumoylation in response to UV irradiation. Our biochemical characterization demonstrated that the sumoylation of TIP60 augments its acetyltransferase activity in vitro and in vivo. Thus, this study shed new light on the function and regulation of TIP60 activity in UV-irradiated DNA damage response.

[Effect of electroacupuncture on the contents of excitatory amino acids in cerebral tissue at different time courses in rats with cerebral ischemia and reperfusion injury]

OBJECTIVE

To observe changes of contents of excitatory amino acids in focal cerebral ischemic tissue after electroacupuncture (EA) treatment at different time courses in cerebral ischemia and reperfusion (CI/R) rats so as to provide experimental evidence for selecting the best duration of EA stimulation in the treatment of apoplexy.

METHODS

Forty SD rats were randomized into control, model, EA-10 min, EA-30 min and EA-60 min groups. CI/R model was established by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and reperfusion. EA (2 Hz, 3.5 mA and continuous waves) was applied to "Baihui" (GV 20) and "Shuigou" (GV 26) for 10 min, 30 min and 60 min respectively. Cerebral glutamate (Glu) and aspartic acid (Asp) concentrations were detected by using an amino acid automatic analyzer after homogenate and centrifugalization of the right brain tissue.

RESULTS

Compared with control group, Asp and Glu contents of model group and EA-10 min group increased significantly (P < 0.01); while in comparison with model group, Asp level in EA-60 min group, and Glu level in EA-10 min, EA-30 min and EA-60 min groups decreased considerably (P < 0.05). No significant differences were found between control and EA-30 min groups, and between control and EA-60 min groups in Asp and Glu levels (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

EA of GV20 and GV26 for 60 min can markedly reduce Glu and Asp levels in the topical cerebral infarct area in CI/R rats, which may contribute to its effect in relieving cerebral ischemic injury. Suitable duration of EA stimulation is definitely necessary for inducing a better therapeutic effect.

[Relationship between body mass index, waist circumference and blood pressure among 5246 residents in Chongqing area]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between body mass index, waist circumference and blood pressure among residents in Chongqing area.

METHODS

A total of 5246 residents aged 15 and over in Chongqing area were enrolled in this study by use of stratified sampling and cluster sampling methods. Data on blood pressure (SBP, DBP), pulse, height, body weight, waist and hip circumferences as well as questionnaire survey were analyzed.

RESULTS

The level of SBP and DBP and hypertension prevalence rate were significantly positively correlated with BMI (all P < 0.01). SBP, DBP levels and hypertension prevalence rate were significantly higher in people with abdomen obesity than people with normal waist circumference (all P < 0.01). BMI, waist circumference in hypertensive residents were significantly higher than non-hypertensive residents (all P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Blood pressure level and hypertension prevalence rate were closely related with BMI and waist circumference among residents in Chongqing area.

Comparative toxicity of hydrophobic contaminants to microalgae and higher plants

To enable rapid and sensitive screening of phytotoxic compounds in terrestrial system, a 4 day solid-phase microalgal bioassay was developed. Three species of microalgae (Selenastrum capricornutum, Chlorococcum hypnosporum and Chlorococcum meneghini) were chosen to investigate their responses to DDTs (DDT, DDD and DDE) and PAHs (naphthalene, phenanthrene and pyrene) spiked sands. The bioassay results showed that PAHs and DDTs were toxic to microalgae in a 4-day exposure tests but not to seed germination of ryegrass (Lolium perenne). Phenanthrene was the most phytotoxic. Among three investigated endpoints, fluorescence emissions by microalgae were less sensitive than cell density (optical density OD(650)) and chlorophyll a concentration as endpoints. In general, S. capricornutum was the most sensitive species for PAHs (EC(50) for phenanthrene = 9.4 mg kg(-1)), while C. meneghini for DDTs (EC(50) for DDE = 20.0 mg kg(-1)). Comparison of the microalgal tests with US EPA standard seed germination/root elongation test (using Lolium perenne) demonstrated the superior screening potential of phytotoxic hydrophobic compounds using the proposed bioassay. Using OD(650) as the endpoint, EC(10) of selected microalgae for PAHs and DDTs were 0.43-64.3 mg kg(-1) and 0.67-117 mg kg(-1) respectively, which were much lower than the EC(10) of L. perenne for both PAHs (94-187 mg kg(-1)) and DDTs (113-483 mg kg(-1)). The results encourage further studies involving wider types of vascular plants and more comparison with standard phytotoxicity tests from different authorities using contaminated soils to verify the effectiveness of the microalgal bioassay.

[The primary observation on the effect of pravastatin to non-ischemic heart failure]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the efficacy and safety of adding pravastatin (Pra) on top of standard therapy in non-ischemic heart failure patients.

METHODS

A total of 61 patients hospitalized in our hospital from Jan 2005 to Jul 2006 were randomly divided into pravastatin group (Pra 20 mg/d on top of standard therapy, n = 30) and control group (standard therapy, n = 31) and followed 6 months. The changes on cardiac function, flow-mediated vasodilatation (FMD) of brachial artery, plasma TNF-alpha level, liver and kidney function were observed.

RESULTS

In Pra treated patients, FMD of brachial artery significantly increased after 3 months treatments and NYHA stage significantly improved, plasma BNP, TNF-alpha levels and left ventricular end-diastolic dimension significantly decreased, LVEF significantly increased significantly 6 months post therapy compared to baseline (all P < 0.01). In control group, the patients' NYHA stage also significantly improved (P < 0.05) and LVEF tended to be higher (P = 0.052) while FMD, plasma BNP and TNF-alpha levels remained unchanged at 6 months post therapy compared to baseline. In Pra group, the level of TC (P < 0.05) and LDL-C (P = 0.051) also significantly decreased while HDL-C remained unchanged 6 months post therapy. One patient in Pra group discontinued the study drug because of anaphylaxis. No event on liver and kidney dysfunction was noticed.

CONCLUSION

Pravastatin was effective and safe in treating non-ischemic heart failure patients and can significantly improve left ventricular remodeling, endothelial and cardiac functions as well as reduce the levels of inflammatory factors.

Screening of PAHs and DDTs in sand and acrisols soil by a rapid solid-phase microalgal bioassay

Previously we have demonstrated the rapid screening potential of a newly developed solid-phase microalgal bioassay with spiked sands. In this paper, we report further comparative results using both PAHs and DDTs spiked sands and field-collected acrisols soils. Toxicity responses obtained from standard higher plant tests with three species of plants (Lolium perenne, Cynodon dactylon and Brassica chinensis) were compared with those obtained from a cocktail of microalgae (Selenastrum capricornutum, Chlorococcum hypnosporum and the indigenous Chlorococcum meneghini). The 5-day seed germination/root elongation tests were not sensitive at all in contrast to the 4-day solid-phase microalgal tests and the 28-day early seedling growth tests in both spiked sands and contaminated soils. Sensitivities of microalgal tests were generally higher than the seedling growth tests in spiked sands. Concerning the assays with contaminated soil, the responses of microalgae and higher plants varied. However, the results demonstrated that microalgae could generally act as effective surrogates to screen xenobiotic compounds at toxic level to higher plants, with the local species C. meneghini especially sensitive to reveal phytotoxic effects. This promising rapid screening solution is possible to be used in accompany with standard seedling growth tests when assessing phytotoxicities of contaminated areas, especially for acrisols soil.

MITF and PU.1 recruit p38 MAPK and NFATc1 to target genes during osteoclast differentiation

Transcription factors NFATc1, PU.1, and MITF collaborate to regulate specific genes in response to colony-stimulating factor-1 (CSF-1) and receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL) signaling during osteoclast differentiation. However, molecular details concerning timing and mechanism of specific events remain ill-defined. In bone marrow-derived precursors, CSF-1 alone promoted assembly of MITF-PU.1 complexes at osteoclast target gene promoters like cathepsin K and acid 5 phosphatase without increasing gene expression. The combination of RANKL and CSF-1 concurrently increased the levels of MAPK-phosphorylated forms of MITF, p38 MAPK, and SWI/SNF chromatin-remodeling complexes bound to these target promoters and markedly increased expression of the genes. NFATc1 was subsequently recruited to complexes at the promoters during terminal stages of osteoclast differentiation. Genetic analysis of Mitf and Pu.1 in mouse models supported the critical interaction of these genes in osteoclast differentiation. The results define MITF and PU.1 as nuclear effectors that integrate CSF-1/RANKL signals during osteoclast differentiation to initiate expression of target genes, whereas a complex that includes NFATc1 may act to maintain target gene expression in differentiated cells.

Eos, MITF, and PU.1 recruit corepressors to osteoclast-specific genes in committed myeloid progenitors

Transcription factors MITF and PU.1 collaborate to increase expression of target genes like cathepsin K (Ctsk) and acid phosphatase 5 (Acp5) during osteoclast differentiation. We show that these factors can also repress transcription of target genes in committed myeloid precursors capable of forming either macrophages or osteoclasts. The direct interaction of MITF and PU.1 with the zinc finger protein Eos, an Ikaros family member, was necessary for repression of Ctsk and Acp5. Eos formed a complex with MITF and PU.1 at target gene promoters and suppressed transcription through recruitment of corepressors CtBP (C-terminal binding protein) and Sin3A, but during osteoclast differentiation, Eos association with Ctsk and Acp5 promoters was significantly decreased. Subsequently, MITF and PU.1 recruited coactivators to these target genes, resulting in robust expression of target genes. Overexpression of Eos in bone marrow-derived precursors disrupted osteoclast differentiation and selectively repressed transcription of MITF/PU.1 targets, while small interfering RNA knockdown of Eos resulted in increased basal expression of Ctsk and Acp5. This work provides a mechanism to account for the modulation of MITF and PU.1 activity in committed myeloid progenitors prior to the initiation of osteoclast differentiation in response to the appropriate extracellular signals.

Characterization of urinary peptide biomarkers of acute rejection in renal allografts

We previously demonstrated that 4.7 kDa and 4.4 kDa peptides are useful in diagnosing acute rejection in renal transplant recipients. The aim of this study was to characterize these polypeptides and assess their potential as biomarkers. The polypeptides were identified as human beta-Defensin-1 (4.7 kDa) and alpha-1-antichymotrypsin (4.4 kDa), by tandem mass spectrometry and ProteinChip immunoassay. The urinary abundance of both polypeptides, assessed using surface-enhanced laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF MS), revealed a reduction in beta-Defensin-1 while alpha-1-antichymotrypsin increased in patients with rejection (p < 0.05) compared with clinically stable transplants. The area under the curve (AUC) for the receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curve for the diagnosis of rejection for the ratio of both peptides combined was 0.912. Longitudinal analysis confirmed a reduction in beta-Defensin-1 with a reciprocal increase in alpha-1-antichymotrypsin as rejection developed. The difference in urinary beta-Defensin-1 levels quantified by radioimmunoassay was 176.8 +/- 122.3 pg/mL in stable patients compared with 83.2 +/- 52.2 pg/mL in patients with acute rejection, with an ROC AUC of 0.749 (p < 0.01). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) confirmed reduced beta-Defensin-1 expression in the renal parenchyma of patients experiencing acute rejection. In conclusion, the ratio of beta-Defensin-1 and alpha-1-antichymotrypsin excretion in the urine is a novel, potentially useful candidate biomarkers of acute rejection.

Comparison of the phosphorylation of 4'-ethynyl 2',3'-dihydro-3'-deoxythymidine with that of other anti-human immunodeficiency virus thymidine analogs

Thymidine analogs, including 3'-azido-3'-deoxythymidine (AZT) and 2',3'-dideoxy-3'-deoxythymidine (D4T), are important antiretroviral agents. To exert antiretroviral activity, these analogs undergo a stepwise phosphorylation intracellularly to the active triphosphate metabolites. We previously reported that 4'-substituted D4T with an ethynyl group (i.e., 4'-ethynyl D4T) increased the anti-human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) activity and was active against multidrug-resistant HIV strains. 4'-Ethynyl D4T is a better substrate for phosphorylation by human thymidine kinase 1 than D4T is. In this report, we first studied the enzymes involved in the phosphorylation of 4'-ethynyl D4T from monophosphate to triphosphate metabolites. The 4'-ethynyl D4TMP is phosphorylated by recombinant human TMP kinase with a K(m) of 19 +/- 4 microM and a k(cat) of 0.007 +/- 0.001 s(-1); the relative efficiency is about 9 and 15% of those of D4TMP and AZTMP, respectively. Several enzymes from crude cellular extracts, including nucleoside diphosphate kinase, pyruvate kinase, creatine kinase, and 3-phosphoglycerate kinase, could phosphorylate 4'-ethynyl D4T-diphosphate. The relative phosphorylation efficiencies of 4'-ethynyl D4TDP were about 3 to 25% of those of D4TDP and were generally similar to those of AZTDP. In T-lymphoid cell lines, there was a preponderant accumulation of 4'-ethynyl D4TMP, suggesting that TMP kinase could be the rate-limiting enzyme in the metabolism of 4'-ethynyl D4T. Although the same enzymes are involved in the stepwise phosphorylation of thymidine analogs, their behaviors in phosphorylating metabolites of 4'-ethynyl D4T are different from those of D4T and AZT. Qualitatively, the metabolism of 4'-ethynyl D4T is more similar to that of AZT than to that of its progenitor, D4T.

Pollutants in Hong Kong soils: polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

An extensive soil survey was carried out to study the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contaminations in 138 soil samples collected throughout Hong Kong. Results demonstrated that there were low levels of PAH contaminations (median of summation operator 16US EPA PAHs=140 microg kg(-1)) for all land uses (urban park, greening area, country park, rural area, restored landfill, agricultural farmland, orchard farm, crematorium, industrial and near highway area). However, localized hotspots were identified with summation operator 16PAH concentrations as high as 19,500 microg kg(-1) in one urban park. These findings were also confirmed by multivariate analysis. Comparison of PAH profiles showed a widespread domination of its 4-ring member. The major contribution was vehicular emissions from petroleum, and however at the hotspots, the improper disposal of used motor oils. In general, the pollution levels for all the land uses were below the recommended values for residential and general purposes stated in soil quality guidelines such as Netherlands and Denmark except certain identified hotspots. The potential health hazards imposed by these hotspots were alarming, and their existence (3 out of 138 samples) suggested that sole monitoring of atmospheric PAHs may not adequately address the hidden risks to human in urban city.

Astrocyte-derived estrogen enhances synapse formation and synaptic transmission between cultured neonatal rat cortical neurons

Recent in vitro studies have found that astrocytes exert powerful control over the number of neuronal synapses, leading us to consider why glia can exert this control and what the underlying mechanism(s) may be. To understand the potential possibility, we studied the formation of synapses and synaptic function in primary rat cortical neurons. We found that primary cultured neonatal rat cortical astrocytes modulate synaptogenesis and synaptic function through producing and secreting estradiol into culture medium. The concentration of estradiol produced by pure cultured astrocytes increased in correspondence with the days of culture and the number of proliferating astrocytes, which peaked at 266+/-22 ng/l around day 14 of culture. When astrocyte-conditioned medium (ACM) was added into pure cultured cortical neurons, the number of synapses formed between cortical neurons increased by nearly sixfold. The mean frequency and the amplitude of mini-postsynaptic currents (mPSCs) increased from 13+/-4 events/min and 20.5+/-2 pA to 73+/-16 events/min and 29.1+/-3 pA, respectively. In the meantime, the level of estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-alpha) expressed on neonatal rat cortical neurons was significantly up-regulated. Moreover, the effect of ACM on synaptic formation and transmission was blocked by tamoxifen (estrogen receptor antagonist) in culture. After the treatment of tamoxifen, the number of synapses on neurons decreased from 79+/-9 to 32+/-3. The mean amplitude and frequency of mPSCs were also dropped to 24.5+/-2 pA and 35+/-10/min, respectively. Unexpectedly, exogenic estradiol can mimic the effect of ACM on synaptic formation and transmission. Finally, to understand whether astrocyte-derived estradiol regulates the synaptic transmission via presynapse, the release of presynaptic vesicle from neuron was monitored by FM 4-64 assay. The results showed that when ACM or exogenic estradiol was added into neurons, the kinetics of vesicle release speed are similar to that of neuronal cultured with astrocytes, which were faster than that of just pure neuronal cultures. These observations suggest that estrogen synthesized and secreted by astrocytes can regulate synapse formation and synaptic transmission.

Microarray-based compendium of hepatic gene expression profiles for prototypical ADME gene-inducing compounds in rats and mice in vivo

To examine species-specific aspects of the induction of absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion (ADME)-related genes, we used 25 000 gene oligonucleotide microarrays to construct a rodent gene-response compendium that compared hepatic gene expression profiles and developed consensus aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), constitutive androstane receptor (CAR) and pregnane X-receptor (PXR) ligand signatures relevant to drug clearance. Twenty-six inducer compounds were chosen from the literature. Rats and mice received one of six dose levels (log2 dose escalation, 32-fold dose range) of each compound daily for 3 days. Animals were necropsied 6-9 h after the last dose, and tissues were collected for RNA analysis. Hepatic gene expression profiles were obtained using Rosetta Resolver expression analysis system, and ADME-related genes were extracted. Cross-talk among nuclear receptors or hepatoxicity at high dose levels resulted in large signatures (usually >1000 genes at p < 0.01) for most compounds. After ADME gene transcript enrichment, agglomerative clustering separated AhR ligands from CAR/PXR ligands, but it was difficult to distinguish CAR from PXR ligands. Consensus signatures were derived from groups of AhR, CAR and PXR ligands; and cross-talk among responding genes was determined. Many compounds had distinct log dose-response profiles, and relative potencies for ligands were established. Robust responses by CYP1A1, CYP2B10 (CAR responsive in mice) and CYP2B15 (CAR responsive in rats) and CYP3A1 (PXR responsive in rats) were used to benchmark the relative potency of different ligands and to determine the relative selectivity for AhR, CAR or PXR. By using a compendium of gene expression profiles, we defined species-specific induction patterns across the ADME transcriptome.

PIG-A mutations in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria and in normal hematopoiesis

PIG-A is an X-linked gene that is essential for the first step in the biosynthesis of glycosylphosphatidyl-inositol (GPI) anchors. A rare clonal hematopoietic stem cell disease, paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH), is caused by mutations in the PIG-A gene. PNH is an acquired disease that may arise de novo or emanate from aplastic anemia. PNH blood cells have an absence or marked deficiency of all GPI anchored proteins. Interestingly, rare GPI anchor deficient blood and marrow cells that harbor PIG-A mutations can also be found in most healthy controls. This review examines the clinical and biological relevance of PIG-A mutations in PNH, aplastic anemia and healthy controls.

The effect of EA on the gastric mucosal histology and ITF mRNA expression in stress-induced rats

This study focuses on the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on the gastric mucosal histology and ITF (intestinal trefoil factor) mRNA in stress-related rat, and the relationship between the gastric protective mechanism of EA at acupoints of Stomach Meridian of Foot-Yangming (SMFY) group and Gallbladder Meridian of Foot-Shaoyang (GMFS) group. Forty rats were randomly divided into 4 groups: blank control group (BCG), model control group (MCG), SMFY group (EA at acupoints of SMFY for 7 days before model inducing), and GMFS group (EA at acupoints of GMFS for 7 days before model inducing). All rats (except normal group) were made model by water immersion and restriction (WRS) on day 7, then the gastric mucosal lesion index (GUI) was accessed, ITF mRNA expression of the tissue was detected by reverse- transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method, and the histological change under light microscope was observed. As a result, the GUI value in SMFY/GMFS groups decreased significantly (p < 0.05 or 0.01). The level of ITF mRNA expression in SMFY group was significantly higher than that in MCG (p < 0.01), while that in GMFS group was higher than MCG but there was no statistical difference (p < 0.05). This result may be due to the intrinsic mechanism of EA's gastric mucosal protection by the upregulation of ITF mRNA expression in gastric mucosal tissue, and the expression variance indicated the classical traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory "Relative Particularity between SMFY and Stomach.".

Effect of metabolic syndrome on prognosis and clinical characteristics of revascularization in patients with coronary artery disease

BACKGROUND

People with metabolic syndrome are at higher risk for developing coronary artery disease (CAD). The effect of the metabolic syndrome on outcomes in patients with preexisting CAD has not been well studied. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence, characteristics, in hospital and long term prognosis of CAD with metabolic syndrome and to determine the factors influencing the prognosis of the disease.

METHODS

The DESIRE registry contains data of 3696 patients with CAD between 2001 and 2004. Mean long term followup was (829 +/- 373) days. Diagnosis of metabolic syndrome was based on modified International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Worldwide Definition of the Metabolic Syndrome, using body mass index (BMI) instead of waist circumference.

RESULTS

Of 2596 patients with complete records of height, weight, and so on, 1280 (49.3%) were identified with metabolic syndrome. The patients with metabolic syndrome had higher level of body mass index, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting glucose and disordered blood lipid (all P < 0.0001), with higher creatinine [(10.5 +/- 4.3) mg/L vs (9.9 +/- 2.9) mg/L, P < 0.0001] and the number of white blood cells [(7.49 +/- 2.86) x 10(9)/L vs (7.19 +/- 2.62) x 10(9)/L, P = 0.008) compared with those without metabolic syndrome. The patients with metabolic syndrome showed severer coronary angiographic alterations (left main artery and/or > or = 2-vessel) (73.6% vs 69.6%, P = 0.031). There were no significant differences of major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE) or mortality in hospital between the two groups. During followup, the ratio of MACCE in CAD with metabolic syndrome patients increased significantly (11.8% vs 10.0%, P = 0.044). Fasting blood glucose (> or = 1000 mg/L) and triglyceride (TG, > or = 1500 mg/L) were responsible for most of the increased risk associated with the metabolic syndrome (adjusted OR 1.465, 95% CI 1.037 - 1.874, P = 0.032; OR 1.378, 95% CI 1.014 - 1.768, P = 0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was very high in CAD patients. The metabolic syndrome confers a higher risk of long term MACCE in patients with CAD, and dysglycaemia and hypertriglycaemia appear to be responsible for most of the associated risk.

Proteomic analysis of hypoxia-induced responses in the syncytialization of human placental cell line BeWo

Syncytiotrophoblast formation is affected by a number of pathological conditions and suppressed syncytiotrophoblast formation due to hypoxia may play a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia. However, the molecular basis of hypoxia-inhibited trophoblast syncytialization is poorly understood. To determine the effect of hypoxia on trophoblast syncytialization, a proteomic analysis was performed in the human cytotrophoblast cell line BeWo using two-dimensional electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF-TOF-MS. Hypoxia induced marked inhibition of BeWo cell fusion and differentiation. The proteomic profiling was established under hypoxia in BeWo cell syncytialization. The results showed that twenty proteins were significantly up-or down-regulated under hypoxia, compared with cells under normoxia. In response to hypoxia, three antioxidants, peroxiredoxin 1, peroxiredoxin 2 and 1-Cys peroxiredoxin, were down-regulated, two proteins involved in glycolysis pathway (malate dehydrogenase and enolase) were up-regulated. The expression of two members of the annexin family (annexin A2 and annexin A5) increased. We also found a decreased expression of 14-3-3 tau protein in hypoxia treated cells. Proteins implied in protein degradation and folding were also identified. The expression of two cytoskeleton components (keratin 1 and beta-actin) was found to be down-regulated. In addition, galectin-3 was up-regulated. These proteins have been implicated in regulating cellular oxidative stress, glycolysis, signal transduction, protein folding and degradation, cell mobility and cytoskeletal structure formation. Western blot analysis revealed that the levels of peroxiredoxin 1 and 14-3-3 tau decreased, whereas the levels of annexin A5 and annexin A2 increased in BeWo cells under hypoxia. These findings provided new insights into the molecular mechanisms in mediating cellular response to hypoxia in trophoblast syncytialization.

Toxicogenomics of endoplasmic reticulum stress inducer tunicamycin in the small intestine and liver of Nrf2 knockout and C57BL/6J mice

This objective of this study was to investigate the toxicogenomics and the spatial regulation of global gene expression profiles elicited by endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress inducer tunicamycin (TM) in mouse small intestine and liver as well as to identify TM-modulated nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-dependent genes. Gene expression profiles were analyzed using 45,000 Affymetrix mouse genome 430 2.0 array and GeneSpring 7.2 software. Microarray results were validated by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR analyses. Clusters of genes that were either induced or suppressed more than two-fold by TM treatment compared with vehicle in C57BL/6J/Nrf2 (-/-; knockout) and C57BL/6J Nrf2 (+/+; wildtype) mice genotypes were identified. Amongst these, in small intestine and liver, 1291 and 750 genes, respectively, were identified as Nrf2-dependent and upregulated, and 1370 and 943 genes, respectively, as Nrf2-dependent and downregulated. Based on their biological functions, these genes can be categorized into molecular chaperones and heat shock proteins, ubiquitination/proteolysis, apoptosis/cell cycle, electron transport, detoxification, cell growth/differentiation, signaling molecules/interacting partners, kinases and phosphatases, transport, biosynthesis/metabolism, nuclear assembly and processing, and genes related to calcium and glucose homeostasis. Phase II detoxification/antioxidant genes as well as putative interacting partners of Nrf2 such as nuclear corepressors and coactivators, were also identified as Nrf2-dependent genes. The identification of TM-regulated and Nrf2-dependent genes in the unfolded protein response to ER stress not only provides potential novel insights into the gestalt biological effects of TM on the toxicogenomics and spatial regulation of global gene expression profiles in cancer pharmacology and toxicology, but also points to the pivotal role of Nrf2 in these biological processes.

[Study of Huoxue Qianyang granules in revising the left ventricular hypertrophy of spontaneous hypertension rats]

OBJECTIVE

To study the mechanism of Huoxue Qianyang Granule (HXQYG), a traditional Chinese compound medicine, in revising the left ventricular hypertrophy of hypertension.

METHODS

Spontaneous hypertension rats (SHR) were randomly divided into seven groups: untreated group, Songling Xuemaikang (SLXMK)-treated group, captopril-treated group, high-, medium- and low-dose HXQYG-treated groups, and normal control group. The systolic blood pressure (SBP) and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) were measured. The content of angiotensin II (Ang II) in left ventricular tissue was determined by radioimmunoassay. The expressions of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) protein and mRNA in left ventricular tissue were analyzed separately by immunohistochemical method and RT-PCR.

RESULTS

(1) SBP and LVMI were higher in the untreated group than those in the normal control group, and they were lower in the high- and medium-dose HXQYG-treated groups than those in the untreated group, but higher than those in the captopril-treated group, and without significant difference as compared to those in the SLXMK-treated group. (2) The content of Ang II and expressions of ACE protein and mRNA in the left ventricular tissue in the untreated group were higher than those in the normal control group, and they were lower in the HXQYG-treated groups than those in the untreated group, but higher than those in the captopril-treated group, and without significant difference as compared to those in the SLXMK-treated group.

CONCLUSION

HXQYG can reverse the left ventricular hypertrophy of SHR, which may be due to decreasing the amount of Ang II and expressions of ACE protein and mRNA in the left ventricular tissue.

In vivo pharmacokinetics, activation of MAPK signaling and induction of phase II/III drug metabolizing enzymes/transporters by cancer chemopreventive compound BHA in the mice

Phenolic antioxidant butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is a commonly used food preservative with broad biological activities, including protection against chemical-induced carcinogenesis, acute toxicity of chemicals, modulation of macromolecule synthesis and immune response, induction of phase II detoxifying enzymes, as well as its undesirable potential tumor-promoting activities. Understanding the molecular basis underlying these diverse biological actions of BHA is thus of great importance. Here we studied the pharmacokinetics, activation of signaling kinases and induction of phase II/III drug metabolizing enzymes/transporter gene expression by BHA in the mice. The peak plasma concentration of BHA achieved in our current study after oral administration of 200 mg/kg BHA was around 10 microM. This in vivo concentration might offer some insights for the many in vitro cell culture studies on signal transduction and induction of phase II genes using similar concentrations. The oral bioavailability (F) of BHA was about 43% in the mice. In the mouse liver, BHA induced the expression of phase II genes including NQO-1, HO-1, gamma-GCS, GST-pi and UGT 1A6, as well as some of the phase III transporter genes, such as MRP1 and Slcolb2. In addition, BHA activated distinct mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK), as well as p38, suggesting that the MAPK pathways may play an important role in early signaling events leading to the regulation of gene expression including phase II drug metabolizing and some phase III drug transporter genes. This is the first study to demonstrate the in vivo pharmacokinetics of BHA, the in vivo activation of MAPK signaling proteins, as well as the in vivo induction of Phase II/III drug metabolizing enzymes/transporters in the mouse livers.

Identification of Nrf2-regulated genes induced by chemopreventive isothiocyanate PEITC by oligonucleotide microarray

Electrophiles generated during metabolic activation of carcinogens and reactive oxygen species formed from endogenous and exogenous sources might play a significant role in carcinogenesis. Cancer chemoprevention by induction of phase II detoxifying enzymes to counteract the insults of these reactive intermediates is under intensive investigation. Nrf2, a bZIP transcription factor, plays a central role in the regulation of phase II genes by binding to the antioxidant response element (ARE) in their promoters. Identification of novel Nrf2-regulated genes is likely to provide insight into cellular defense systems against the toxicities of electrophiles and oxidants and may define effective targets for achieving cancer chemoprevention. Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a promising chemopreventive agent that exerts its effects by induction of phase II enzymes via activation of Nrf2. In the present study, a transcriptional profile of liver of the wild-type (Nrf2+/+) and knock-out (Nrf2-/-) mice after treatments with vehicle or PEITC at 3 h and at 12 h was generated using the Affymetrix Mouse Genome 430 2.0 Array. Comparative analysis of gene expression changes between different treatment groups of wild-type and Nrf2-deficient mice facilitated identification of numerous genes regulated by Nrf2. These Nrf2-dependent and PEITC-inducible genes include known detoxication enzymes, as well as novel xenobiotic-metabolizing genes regulated by Nrf2 such as CYP 2c55, CYP 2u1 and aldehyde oxidase. Unexpected clusters included genes for heat shock proteins, ubiquitin/26 S proteasome subunits, and lipid metabolism molecules. Collectively, the identification of these genes not only provides novel insight into the effect of PEITC on global gene expression and chemoprevention, but also reveals the role of Nrf2 in those processes, which would confer cancer chemopreventive future.

Rac1 is crucial for hair follicle integrity but is not essential for maintenance of the epidermis

Rac1 is a small GTPase that regulates the actin cytoskeleton but also other cellular processes. To investigate the function of Rac1 in skin, we generated mice with a keratinocyte-restricted deletion of the rac1 gene. Rac1-deficient mice lost nearly all of their hair within a few weeks after birth. The nonpermanent part of mutant hair follicles developed constrictions; lost expression of hair follicle-specific keratins, E-cadherin, and alpha6 integrin; and was eventually removed by macrophages. The permanent part of hair follicles and the sebaceous glands were maintained, but no regrowth of full-length hair follicles was observed. In the skin of mutant mice, epidermal keratinocytes showed normal differentiation, proliferation, cell-cell contacts, and basement membrane deposition, demonstrating no obvious defects of Rac1-deficient epidermis in vivo. In vitro, Rac1-null keratinocytes displayed a strong spreading defect and slightly impaired adhesion. These data show that Rac1 plays an important role in sustaining the integrity of the lower part of hair follicles but not in maintenance of the epidermis.

Pharmacogenomics of Phenolic Antioxidant Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) in the Small Intestine and Liver of Nrf2 Knockout and C57BL/6J Mice

PURPOSE

The objective of this study was to investigate the pharmacogenomics and the spatial regulation of global gene expression profiles elicited by cancer chemopreventive agent butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) in mouse small intestine and liver as well as to identify BHA-modulated nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-dependent genes.

METHODS

C57BL/6J (+/+; wildtype) and C57BL/6J/Nrf2(-/-; knockout) mice were administered a single 200 mg/kg oral dose of BHA or only vehicle. Both small intestine and liver were collected at 3 h after treatment and total RNA was extracted. Gene expression profiles were analyzed using 45,000 Affymetrix mouse genome 430 2.0 array and GeneSpring 7.2 software. Microarray results were validated by quantitative real-time reverse transcription-PCR analyses.

RESULTS

Clusters of genes that were either induced or suppressed more than two fold by BHA treatment compared with vehicle in C57BL/6J/Nrf2(-/-; knockout) and C57BL/6J Nrf2 (+/+; wildtype) mice genotypes were identified. Amongst these, in small intestine and liver, 1,490 and 493 genes respectively were identified as Nrf2-dependent and upregulated, and 1,090 and 824 genes respectively as Nrf2-dependent and downregulated. Based on their biological functions, these genes can be categorized into ubiquitination/proteolysis, apoptosis/cell cycle, electron transport, detoxification, cell growth/differentiation, transcription factors/interacting partners, kinases and phosphatases, transport, biosynthesis/metabolism, RNA/protein processing and nuclear assembly, and DNA replication genes. Phase II detoxification/antioxidant genes as well as novel molecular target genes, including putative interacting partners of Nrf2 such as nuclear corepressors and coactivators, were also identified as Nrf2-dependent genes.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of BHA-regulated and Nrf2-dependent genes not only provides potential novel insights into the gestalt biological effects of BHA on the pharmacogenomics and spatial regulation of global gene expression profiles in cancer chemoprevention, but also points to the pivotal role of Nrf2 in these biological processes.

Neu-induced retroviral rat mammary carcinogenesis: a novel chemoprevention model for both hormonally responsive and nonresponsive mammary carcinomas

Clinically relevant animal models of mammary carcinogenesis are crucial for the development and evaluation of new breast cancer chemopreventive agents. The neu-induced retroviral rat mammary carcinogenesis model is based on the direct in situ transfer of the activated neu oncogene into the mammary epithelium using a replication-defective retroviral vector. The resulting mammary carcinomas in intact Wistar-Furth rats exhibit a mixed hormonal response in the same proportion as has been observed in women. In intact rats, approximately 50% of mammary carcinomas can be prevented by tamoxifen treatment. In ovariectomized animals, the mammary carcinomas are hormonally nonresponsive and cannot be prevented by tamoxifen. We evaluated the efficacy of retinoic X receptor-selective retinoids (rexinoids) in this novel model of mammary carcinogenesis. The rexinoids LG100268 and bexarotene (LG1069, Targretin) were highly efficacious in the prevention of neu-induced mammary carcinomas. Dietary LG100268 at 100 mg/kg diet decreased tumor multiplicity by 32% (P = 0.0114) in intact rats and 50% (P < 0.0001) in ovariectomized rats. Bexarotene treatment at a dose of 250 mg/kg diet was associated with reductions in tumor multiplicity of 84% (P < 0.0001) and 86% (P < 0.0001) in intact and ovariectomized animals, respectively. In addition to tumor multiplicity, proliferation and apoptosis were modulated by bexarotene treatment independently of estrogen signaling. The neu-induced retroviral rat mammary carcinogenesis model represents a valuable addition to existing rodent chemoprevention models. The model is useful for assessing the efficacy of chemopreventive agents, specifically those compounds that target hormonally nonresponsive tumors.

SmTR2/4, a Schistosoma mansoni homologue of TR2/TR4 orphan nuclear receptor

cDNA clones encoding a Schistosoma mansoni homologue of the TR2/TR4 group of nuclear receptors, SmTR2/4, were identified by screening an adult female worm cDNA library. SmTR2/4 is a 1,943 amino acid protein, the largest member of the TR2/TR4 group of nuclear receptors and also the largest nuclear receptor reported to date. SmTR2/4 retains a typical domain organisation of nuclear receptors exhibiting 69-77% sequence identity in the DNA binding domain and 16-22% sequence identity in the ligand binding domain compared with its orthologues. SmTR2/4 contains a large A/B domain and hinge region. SmTR2/4 also contains a 100 amino acid F domain, which is absent from its orthologues. SmTR2/4 mRNA is expressed in every stage of the S. mansoni life cycle, exhibiting an elevated expression level in cercariae. Western blot analysis identified two forms of SmTR2/4 protein in adult worms. Our in vitro DNA binding assay showed that SmTR2/4 binds to the DR-3 consensus hormone response element, suggesting a functional conservation among the TR2/TR4 group members in terms of DNA binding specificity. A yeast-based transactivation assay demonstrated that the A/B domain, F domain and N-terminal part of the hinge region in SmTR2/4, when tethered to a GAL4 DNA binding domain, exhibited an autonomous transcription activation function.