Study of a low-selenium environment in China by INAA and Mössbauer spectrometry

The neutron activation analysis, gamma coincidence spectroscopy, nondispersive hydrogen flame atomic fluorescence spectroscopy, and Mössbauer spectrometry were used to study the low-selenium environment of the Exi Autonomous Prefecture, a well-known Keshan disease region. The Se contents in the soil samples there range from 0.075-0.18 mg/kg with the average of 0.13 mg/kg, whereas in the maize from 0.001-0.018 mg/kg with the average of 0.0099 mg/kg. The 57Fe Mössbauer spectrum of the soil indicates an anoxic environment. In addition to the FE3+ species the compounds containing low-valence iron e.g., goethite, and so forth, also exist. The rare earth element (REE) pattern obtained by NAA further confirms the reductive soil environment, which causes the selenium deficiency.

Selective localization and rotational immobilization of univalent cations on quadruplex DNA

The quadruplex structure of the oligomer d(T2G4T) is more stable in the presence of K+ than in the presence of Na+. This enhanced stability correlates with the preferential binding of K+ to a small number of specific sites on the quadruplex. In contrast, Na+ and K+ compete on an equal footing for atmospheric binding. Both 39K+ and 23Na+ are, when specifically bound, significantly inhibited in their rotational mobility, so that the quadrupolar relaxation reflects the molecular tumbling of the oligomer, which occurs on the time scale of nanoseconds. This rotational immobilization is in distinct contrast to the high rotational mobility of atmospherically bound cations. On the other hand, all NMR-visible 39K+ in solution is in rapid exchange among all environments (free, specifically bound, and atmospherically bound) implying that the lifetime of specifically coordinated 39K+ must be significantly shorter than a millisecond. A similar conclusion holds for 23Na+. The oligomer d(T2G4T) forms two distinct Hoogsteen base-paired structures in NaCl solution, separated by a large kinetic barrier. Neither of these structures is as stable with respect to base pair opening as is the quadruplex structure formed in KCl solution. Only one of these two structures is associated with rotational immobilization of bound 23Na+.

The Saccharomyces cerevisiae Cdc68 transcription activator is antagonized by San1, a protein implicated in transcriptional silencing

The CDC68 gene (also called SPT16) encodes a transcription factor for the expression of a diverse set of genes in the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. To identify other proteins that are functionally related to the Cdc68 protein, we searched for genetic suppressors of a cdc68 mutation. Four suppressor genes in which mutations reverse the temperature sensitivity imposed by the cdc68-1 mutation were found. We show here that one of the suppressor genes is the previously reported SAN1 gene; san1 mutations were originally identified as suppressors of a sir4 mutation, implicated in the chromatin-mediated transcriptional silencing of the two mating-type loci HML and HMR. Each san1 mutation, including a san1 null allele, reversed all aspects of the cdc68 mutant phenotype. Conversely, increased copy number of the wild-type SAN1 gene lowered the restrictive temperature for the cdc68-1 mutation. Our findings suggest that the San1 protein antagonizes the transcriptional activator function of the Cdc68 protein. The identification of san1 mutations as suppressors of cdc68 mutations suggests a role for Cdc68 in chromatin structure.

Staining of endothelial cells and macrophages in atherosclerotic lesions with human heat-shock protein-reactive antisera

Our previous epidemiological studies have shown that levels of serum antibodies against mycobacterial heat-shock protein (hsp) 65 correlate positively with carotid atherosclerosis in subjects aged 40 to 79 years. To determine whether these high-titer sera also react with homologous human hsp60 and/or cell components of atherosclerotic lesions, we selected 15 human sera samples, each with high or low titers to recombinant mycobacterial hsp65, and investigated their reactivity with human arterial lesion components by immunoblotting and immunofluorescence techniques. All five higher-titer sera against hsp65 reacted with a 60-kDa band of atherosclerotic lesion proteins and human recombinant hsp60 on Western blots. Pooled sera with low antibody titers to hsp65 diluted similarly as high-titer sera did not show reactivity with atherosclerotic lesion and media proteins. By immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence with human immunoglobulin G isolated from different sera, labeled with biotin, and visualized with a streptavidin conjugate, positive staining was observed in sections of fatty streaks and atherosclerotic plaques of carotid arteries, and weak staining was observed in the normal intima. Double immunofluorescence identified the majority of positively stained cells as macrophages, endothelial cells, and a few smooth muscle cells. In summary, serum antibodies against hsp65 cross-react with the human 60-kDa homologue present in high levels in atherosclerotic lesions and are mainly reacting with macrophages and endothelial cells, supporting our concept of a possible involvement of humoral-mediated immune reaction against hsp60 in atherogenesis.

Direct genotyping and prenatal diagnosis of beta-thalassemia in Chinese by polymerase chain reaction mediated restriction fragment length polymorphism method

The molecular basis of beta-thalassemia is predominantly point mutations in the beta-globin gene. Frameshift 41-42 (-CTTT), IVS-2 position 654 (C-->T) mutation, nonsense codon 17 (A-->T), TATA box position -28 (A-->G) mutation and frameshift 71-72 (+A) account for more than 95% of beta-thalassemia alleles in the population of South China. We have developed a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-mediated restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method for the identification of these alleles. In this method, artificial mispairing bases in PCR-amplified products were created to distinguish normal from mutant alleles on the basis of RFLPs. The size of the five PCR-amplified DNA fragments that may potentially contain the above five types of mutations is 93 or 89 bp (codons 41-42), 221 bp (IVS-2 nt 654), 110 bp (codon 17), 123 bp (TATA box nt -28), and 97 or 98 bp (codons 71-72). After these fragments were digested with Hinc II, Mae III, Nhe I, EcoR I, and Dde I, respectively, the allele-specific RFLPs produced were analyzed by gel electrophoresis. DNA samples of 24 patients with the above five types of beta-thalassemia were investigated with the present method and allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO) probing simultaneously. We used this method in the prenatal diagnosis of 14 Chinese families for beta-thalassemia. The results obtained by the present method correspond well with those by the ASO probe test.

Rotational dynamics of hexaamminecobalt(III) bound to oligomeric DNA: correlation with cation-induced structural transitions

Two common assumptions are that duplex DNA structure shows little sensitivity to ionic conditions and that simple cations bind to DNA in a nonspecific fashion. Here we examine these assumptions using as a model ligand the inorganic cation Co(NH3)6(3+). We find, upon titration with Co(NH3)6(3+), that certain DNA oligonucleotides show pronounced changes in circular dichroism spectra. For oligonucleotides such as d(GGCCGGCC), with contiguous, same-strand guanines, the transition is toward A-DNA characteristics. For those oligonucleotides that manifest such large Co(NH3)6(3+)-induced changes in circular dichroism spectra, 59Co NMR relaxation measurements demonstrate that Co(NH3)6(3+) tumbling motions are greatly inhibited, so that the effective NMR correlation time approaches that of overall tumbling of the DNA oligomer. Very large upfield 59Co chemical shifts are observed for Co(NH3)6(3+) bound to such oligonucleotides. For another class of oligomers, which show no significant changes in the circular dichroism spectrum in the presence of Co(NH3)6(3+), the tumbling motions of bound Co(NH3)6(3+) are largely independent of those of the oligomer, and much more modest 59Co chemical shifts are observed. Oligomers in a third class cause significant rotational inhibition of bound Co(NH3)6(3+), and only modest changes in 59Co chemical shifts. Oligonucleotides in this class appear not to undergo large structural changes in the presence of Co(NH3)6(3+). Within these broad categories, a remarkable variability in 59Co NMR parameters, and in structural perturbations, is apparent for the 13 oligonucleotides that we have examined.

Opioid, calcium, and adrenergic receptor involvement in protopine analgesia

The analgesic effect of protopine (Pro), an alkaloid isolated from Papaveraceae, was confirmed by tail-pinch and hot-plate tests when given sc 10-40 mg.kg-1, and 20-40 mg.kg-1 inhibited the spontaneous movements of mice. Pro 40 mg.kg-1 increased the sleeping rate, prolonged the sleeping duration, and shortened the sleeping latency in mice hypnotized by ip pentobarbital sodium 30 mg.kg-1. Pro 10-40 mg.kg-1 did not affect the inflammatory reaction induced by xylene and egg white. An icv injection of Pro 20-200 micrograms/mouse showed a remarkable analgesic effect in mice. The icv pretreatment of naloxone 2 micrograms blocked the analgesic effect completely. CaCl2 40 micrograms/mouse (ICV) or methotrexate 10 mg.kg-1 (ip), an agonist of Ca2+ channel, showed a complete blockade of the analgesia, while nifedipine 100 mg.kg-1(po), a blocker of Ca2+ channel, enhanced the analgesic effect. The ip pretreatment of reserpine 4 mg.kg-1 reduced the Pro analgesia. Phentolamine 10 mg.kg-1(ip), an alpha-adrenergic blocker, tended to weaken the analgesia, but propranolol 10 mg.kg-1(ip), a beta-blocker, did not affect it. These results suggest that Pro displays its analgesic effect mainly through the opioid and calcium systems and partly through the adrenergic mechanism.

X-ray crystal structure of tetrachloro(trans-d,l-1,2-diaminocyclohexane) platinum(IV) complex: a potential anticancer agent

Tetrachloro(trans-d,l-1,2-diaminocyclohexane)platinum(IV) complex (tetraplatin or ormaplatin) has been recognized as a potential anticancer agent. We have determined the crystal structure of this compound by x-ray single crystal diffraction. It has a unique space group and rare molecular packing. Parameters are as follows: space group R3c (rhombohedral), a = 26.425(4) A, alpha = 54.50(1) degrees; V = 11375A3, Z = 36. The coordination about Pt atoms is a slightly distorted octahedron owing to the presence of the geometrically strained five-membered ring (avg. N-Pt-N angle = 82.9 degrees). An intricate network of intermolecular hydrogen bonds holds the crystal lattice together. Three independent ormaplatin molecules surround each water molecule, forming the three shortest A...B contacts and thus the three strongest hydrogen bonds.

Establishment of National Quality Control Reference Panels and Requirements for Hepatitis B diagnosis reagents in China

A National Quality Control Reference Panel for Hepatitis B Diagnostic Kits has been established. Markers for these standards which were prepared include National Standards for HBsAg and anti-HBs calibrated against WHO International Standards. In addition, Reference Panels for HBeAg, anti-HBe, anti-HBc, anti-HBc IgM and HBV were established and National Requirements set. These panels have been used for the nationwide evaluation of HB kits and for licensing purposes.

Induction of B-A transitions of deoxyoligonucleotides by multivalent cations in dilute aqueous solution

Circular dichroism (CD) spectra of d(CCCCGGGG) in the presence of Co(NH3)6(3+) are very similar to spectra of r(CCCCGGGG). In contrast, B-form characteristics are observed for d(CCCCGGGG) in the presence of Na+ and Mg2+, even at high salt concentrations. Spermidine induces modest changes of the CD of d(CCCCGGGG). The NMR chemical shifts of the nonexchangeable protons of d(CCCCGGGG) in the absence and presence of Co(NH3)6(3+) were assigned by proton two-dimensional (2D) NOESY and COSY measurements. The chemical shifts of the GH8 protons of d(CCCCGGGG) move upfield upon titration with Co(NH3)6Cl3. The sums of the sugar H1' coupling constants decrease with added Co(NH3)6Cl3. Cross peak intensities in the 2D proton NOESY spectra show a transformation from B-DNA to A-DNA characteristics upon the addition of Co(NH3)6Cl3. The temperature-dependent 59Co transverse and longitudinal relaxation rates demonstrate that Co(NH3)6(3+) is site-bound to the oligomer. Such localization is not a general feature of Co(NH3)6(3+) binding to oligonucleotides. 59Co NMR relaxation and CD measurements demonstrate chiral discrimination by d(CCCCGGGG) for the two stereoisomers of Co(en)3(3+). Both stereoisomers bind tightly as judged by 59Co NMR, and both cause large (but nonequivalent) changes in the CD of this oligomer.

Targeted inactivation of the gene psaL encoding a subunit of photosystem I of the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803

Photosystem I is a multisubunit pigment-protein complex that functions as a light-driven plastocyanin-ferredoxin oxidoreductase in thylakoid membranes of cyanobacteria and higher plants. A 16-kDa protein subunit of photosystem I complex was isolated from the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. The sequence of its NH2-terminal residues was determined and a corresponding oligonucleotide probe was used to isolate the gene encoding this subunit. The gene, designated as psaL, codes for a protein of 16,605 Da. The deduced amino acid sequence is homologous to the subunit PsaL of barley photosystem I. There are two conserved hydrophobic regions in the subunit PsaL that may cross or interact with thylakoid membranes. The gene psaL exists as a single copy in the genome and is expressed as a monocistronic RNA. Stable mutant strains in which the gene psaL was interrupted by a gene conferring resistance to chloramphenicol, were generated by targeted mutagenesis. Growth and photosynthetic characteristics of a selected mutant strain under photoautotrophic conditions were similar to those of the wild type, suggesting that the function of PsaL is dispensable for photosynthesis in Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803. Western analysis and subunit composition of purified photosystem I revealed that the mutant strain contained other subunits of photosystem I in thylakoid membranes and in the assembled complex. When photosystem II activity was inhibited and glucose was supplied in the medium, mutant strains grew faster than the wild type. Under these conditions of growth, re-reduction of P700 in the mutant cells, but not in the wild type cells, showed a component with an uncharacteristically rapid half-time.

Immunology of atherosclerosis. Demonstration of heat shock protein 60 expression and T lymphocytes bearing alpha/beta or gamma/delta receptor in human atherosclerotic lesions

Our previous work revealed the presence of a great number of activated T lymphocytes in early human atherosclerotic lesions, and we were able to induce atherosclerosis in normocholesterolemic rabbits by immunization with Mycobacterium tuberculosis heat-shock protein (HSP) 65. We hypothesized this latter phenomenon to arise from cross-reactivity of mycobacterial HSP 65 with the endogenously expressed homologous 60-kd form of this stress protein. To study HSP 60 expression and the phenotype of intima infiltrating T lymphocytes relative to the T cell receptor (TCR) in human atherosclerotic lesions, specimens of aorta, carotid arteries, and internal mammary arteries and veins, as well as saphenous veins and vena cava from 27 subjects, aged 23 to 80 years, were examined using immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence techniques on serial frozen tissue sections. HSP 60 was detected on endothelium, smooth muscle cells, and/or mononuclear cells of all carotid and aortic specimens, whereas vessels of smaller diameter, serving as reference specimens for normal intima without atherosclerotic lesions and mononuclear infiltration, showed no detectable expression of this stress protein. Furthermore, although the majority of CD3+ cells within the mononuclear cell infiltrates of atherosclerotic lesions bear the alpha/beta TCR, a considerable portion also consisted of gamma/delta TCR+ cells. Thus, 9.7% of T cells in the transition zone between normal intima and fatty streaks carry the gamma/delta TCR, a proportion that decreases to 6.6% and 4.3% in fatty streaks and atherosclerotic plaques, respectively. We conclude that the intensity of HSP 60 expression correlates positively with the atherosclerotic severity and that most lymphocytes participating in atherogenesis bear the alpha/beta TCR, although gamma/delta TCR+ cells are also enriched in atherosclerotic lesions. Expression of HSP 60 by intimal cells, caused, eg, by hemodynamic shear forces, may be responsible for recruitment of HSP-sensitized T cells, thus leading to the induction of an initiating inflammatory process in atherosclerosis. Other risk factors, such as high serum cholesterol levels, contribute to the final outcome of the disease.

Molecular biology of human papillomavirus

The papillomavirus is at present considered to be an independent group of viruses, possibly an independent family. Human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause warts of the skin and mucosa, and is now widely recognized as an important etiologic factor of both benign and malignant tumors in the lower genital tract. In this paper the biological properties of HPV, including its genomic organization and the open reading frames, are described; the relationship between HPV and uterine cervical carcinoma, especially in regard to the role of the viral oncogenes E6 and E7, is discussed in detail.

[Blood-lipid decreasing action of total saponins of Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F.H. Chen]

Blood-lipid decreasing action of total saponins of Panax notoginseng was studied. The results showed that after the saponins were given po 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg to rats and quails, two high lipid model animals, for seven days, their TCH and TG were evidently decreased (P < 0.05).

Increased expression of heat shock protein 65 coincides with a population of infiltrating T lymphocytes in atherosclerotic lesions of rabbits specifically responding to heat shock protein 65

We have shown previously that atherosclerotic lesions can be induced in normocholesterolemic rabbits by immunization with mycobacterial heat shock protein 65 (hsp65), which has a high degree of sequence homology with mammalian hsp60. To investigate a possible relationship between hsp60 expression and the antigenic specificities of infiltrating T cells in the lesion, 38 New Zealand White rabbits were treated either by immunization with recombinant mycobacterial hsp65 or by administration of a 0.2% cholesterol diet. Atherosclerotic lesions were observed after 16 wk, particularly in the aortic arch and arterial bifurcations of rabbits immunized with hsp65 or fed with a cholesterol-rich diet. Hsp65 staining of aortas showed a heterogeneous distribution, and significantly increased staining intensity in atherosclerotic lesions compared to aortic media or adventitia. This abundantly expressed hsp65 was observed in atherosclerotic lesions induced by hsp65 immunization as well as those induced by cholesterol-rich diet alone. Interestingly, a population of the T lymphocytes isolated from all forms of atherosclerotic lesions specifically responded to hsp65 in vitro. IL-2-expanded T cell lines derived from atherosclerotic lesions showed a significantly higher hsp65 reactivity than those developed from peripheral blood of the same donor. Furthermore, levels of circulating antibodies and numbers of spleen cells specifically reacting against hsp65 were elevated in all experimental animals. Flow cytometric analysis of spleen cells showed elevated immune response-associated antigen expression in treated animals. In conclusion, increased hsp65 expression in intimal cells and the presence of hsp65-specific T cells in blood and in atherosclerotic lesions may be important in initiating the development of atherosclerosis and perpetuating the lesions.

Developmental and hormonal regulation of the Xenopus liver-type arginase gene

Liver-type L-arginase is a major urea-cycle enzyme which is strongly induced during amphibian metamorphosis, but little is known about the molecular mechanisms underlying this induction. As a first step towards elucidating the possible mechanisms, we have isolated a cDNA clone for L-arginase from an adult Xenopus laevis liver cDNA library. Sequence comparison of Xenopus liver-type L-arginase cDNA shows a strong conservation at the amino acid level with those of human, rat and yeast. Using a Xenopus arginase cDNA fragment as a hybridization probe, we have shown by Northern blotting that the gene is highly expressed in the liver, and very slightly in kidney and spleen, of adult Xenopus. The expression is developmentally regulated. Only traces of arginase mRNA can be detected in pre-metamorphic tadpoles, but its accumulation increases very markedly at the onset of natural metamorphosis, being maintained at a high concentration constitutively upon completion of this developmental process. Amphibian metamorphosis is under the strict control of thyroid hormones. It is therefore significant that exposure of pre-metamorphic tadpoles (at stages before endogenous thyroid hormone secretion) to exogenous hormone (1 nM triiodothyronine) precociously activated the L-arginase gene. The time course of this precocious hormonal induction paralleled that of serum albumin gene in the liver. Polyclonal antibodies were raised against recombinant Xenopus L-arginase expressed in Escherichia coli as a fusion protein with glutathione S-transferase in the plasmid expression vector pGEX. Western blotting using this antibody showed that, although arginase mRNA is present in high concentration in Xenopus tadpole liver at the onset of natural metamorphosis, the protein is detected only upon its completion. Our results show a complex transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of the Xenopus liver-type L-arginase gene during post-embryonic development. They also demonstrate that this gene can be exploited as a target for thyroid hormones in further studies to analyze the mechanisms underlying the establishment of the adult phenotype during amphibian metamorphosis.

Association of serum antibodies to heat-shock protein 65 with carotid atherosclerosis

Arteriosclerotic lesions can be induced in normocholesterolaemic rabbits by immunisation with heat-shock protein (hsp) 65, a stress protein expressed in high concentrations in human atherosclerotic lesions. If an immune reaction to hsp65 also plays a part in human atherogenesis, it should be possible to detect anti-hsp65 antibodies in patients with atherosclerotic lesions. To study the possible relation between immune reaction to hsp65 and atherosclerosis, 867 normal inhabitants of South Tyrol, aged 40-79 years, were selected randomly for determination of serum antibodies against hsp65, simultaneous sonographic assessment of carotid atherosclerotic lesions, and evaluation of established risk factors--ie, blood cholesterol, hypertension, smoking, diabetes mellitus, and obesity. Autoantibodies to nuclear antigens, thyroid antigens, and rheumatoid factors were also measured. Serum anti-hsp65 antibodies were significantly (p < 0.05) increased in subjects aged 60-79 years with carotid atherosclerosis compared with those without lesions, and increased antibody concentration was independent of age, sex, and other established risk factors. On the other hand, the incidence and titres of autoantibodies did not correlate with carotid atherosclerotic lesions. Our data provide the first evidence of a strong correlation between anti-hsp65 antibodies and carotid atherosclerosis, suggesting that hsp65 might be involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis.

Structural organization of proteins on the oxidizing side of photosystem II. Two molecules of the 33-kDa manganese-stabilizing proteins per reaction center

The 33-kDa manganese-stabilizing protein stabilizes the manganese cluster in the oxygen-evolving complex. There has been, however, a considerable amount of controversy concerning the stoichiometry of this photosystem II (PS II) component. In this paper, we have verified the extinction coefficient of the manganese-stabilizing protein by amino acid analysis, determined the manganese content of oxygen-evolving photosystem II membranes and reaction center complex using inductively coupled plasma spectrometry, and determined immunologically the amount of the manganese-stabilizing protein associated with photosystem II. Oxygen-evolving photosystem II membranes and reaction center complex preparations contained 258 +/- 11 and 67 +/- 3 chlorophyll, respectively, per tetranuclear manganese cluster. Immunoquantification of the manganese-stabilizing protein using mouse polyclonal antibodies on "Western blots" demonstrated the presence of 2.1 +/- 0.2 and 2.0 +/- 0.3 molecules of the manganese-stabilizing protein/tetranuclear manganese cluster in oxygen-evolving PS II membranes and highly purified PS II reaction center complex, respectively. Since the manganese-stabilizing protein co-migrated with the D2 protein in our electrophoretic system, accurate immunoquantification required the inclusion of CaCl2-washed PS II membrane proteins or reaction center complex proteins in the manganese-stabilizing protein standards to compensate for the possible masking effect of the D2 protein on the binding of the manganese-stabilizing protein to Immobilon-P membranes. Failure to include these additional protein components in the manganese-stabilizing protein standards leads to a marked underestimation of the amount of the manganese-stabilizing protein associated with these photosystem II preparations.

Hexaamminecobalt(III) binding environments on double-helical DNA

Previous cation nmr evidence suggests that univalent cations such as Na+ bind to DNA in a diffuse, nonspecific manner, whereas di- and trivalent cations show distinct binding heterogeneity. Here are reported 59Co- and 23Na-nmr measurements of the %GC dependence of the DNA binding behavior of the trivalent hexaamminecobalt(III) cation. When Co(NH3)6Cl3 titrations are performed on one mammalian and three bacterial DNAs, evidence is found for at least three distinct classes of bound Co(NH3)6(3+). A comparison of titration curves for all four DNAs demonstrates that an increase in GC content correlates with an increase in the fraction of specific Co(NH3)6(3+). binding sites. For M. lysodeikticus DNA (72% GC), a slowly exchanging class of bound 59Co(NH3)6(3+) is apparent. This class of sites is saturated at very low binding densities (between 0.02 and 0.03 cobalt cations per DNA phosphate). At higher binding densities (greater than 0.03), the signal due to slowly exchanging 59Co(NH3)6(3+) disappears into the noise, and a single 59Co(NH3)6(3+) signal is observed. Within the sensitivity limitations of these measurements, no evidence for slowly exchanging bound 59Co(NH3)6(3+) could be found for any of the other DNAs, for which a single, rapidly exchanging 59Co(NH3)6(3+) signal is observed at all binding densities. For this rapidly exchanging signal, for all four DNAs, the measured 59Co(NH3)6(3+) nmr parameters depend significantly on (a) binding density and (b) GC content of the DNA.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Synthesis and characterization of N-methyliminodiacetato trans-R,R-, trans-S,S-, and cis-1,2-diaminocyclohexane platinum (IV) complexes: crystal structure of chloro(trans-R,R-1,2-diaminocyclohexane) (N-methyliminodiacetato) platinum(IV) chloride

The compounds, chloro(trans-R,R-1,2-diaminocyclohexane) (N-methyliminodiacetato)platinum(IV) chloride, chloro(trans-S,S-1,2-diaminocyclohexane)(N-methyliminodiacetato) platinum(IV) chloride, and chloro(cis-1,2-diaminocyclohexane)(N-methyliminodiacetato)platinum (IV) chloride, were prepared and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, and 195Pt NMR. The crystal structure of one of these three compounds, chloro(trans-R,R-1,2-diaminocyclohexane) (N-methyliminodiacetato) platinum(IV) chloride, was determined by x-ray single crystal diffraction. This compound is particularly interesting because the 1,2-diaminocyclohexane (DACH) ring is in a twist-boat configuration rather than the chair configuration previously reported for other DACH platinum compounds. The crystal structure consists of two independent cations and anions, with all atoms between these two independent molecules (except those in the chiral DACH) related by a pseudo-inversion center. Both platinum atoms have slightly distorted octahedral coordination, with angles ranging from 81.8 to 100.8 degrees. Crystallographic details: space group P2(1) (monoclinic); a = 19.864(5) A, b = 7.026(2) A, c = 12.446(3) A, beta = 106.64(2) degrees; Z = 4; R = 0.036 for 2333 reflections.

A high-density-lipoprotein receptor appears to mediate the transfer of essential fatty acids from high-density lipoprotein to lymphocytes

It has been shown previously that a specific high-density lipoprotein (HDL) receptor exists on human lymphocytes that recognizes apoprotein (apo) A1 as its ligand, and may be responsible for utilization of HDL lipids to respond optimally to mitogenic stimulation when cultured in serum-free medium supplemented with HDL. To clarify further the relationship between various HDL lipids used by lymphocytes and HDL receptor activity, the lipid composition of the cells and the regulation of HDL and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors on freshly isolated lymphocytes and mitogen-activated T-blasts after treatment with lipoproteins, liposomes or fatty acids were investigated. Our data show that the linear increase in cell proliferation correlates with the presence of HDL in fatty-acid-free culture medium in the concentration range of HDL receptor saturation. Decreased binding/uptake of dioctadecylindocarbocyanine (DiI)-fluorescence-labelled HDL by freshly isolated lymphocytes was observed in the presence of unlabelled HDL in 4-day culture, whereas T-blast binding/uptake was down-regulated by preincubation not only with HDL but also with LDL. T-blasts pretreated with HDL showed increased cellular contents of phosphatidylcholine, oleic acid (C18:1,n-9) and linoleic acid (C18:2,n-6), which are essential for optimal proliferation of mitogen-stimulated lymphocytes. Furthermore, DiI-HDL binding on lymphocytes was down-regulated by up to 20% (resting T cells) and 50% (T-blasts) when cultured in the presence of apoA1-phosphatidylcholine liposomes (T-blasts only), oleic acid or linoleic acid, but not by stearic acid (C18:0). The results indicate that HDL provide lymphocytes with essential fatty acids, which in turn regulate HDL receptor activity.

Induction of arteriosclerosis in normocholesterolemic rabbits by immunization with heat shock protein 65

Previous studies have established the presence of high numbers of activated T lymphocytes and "aberrant" expression of major histocompatibility complex class II antigens by endothelial and smooth muscle cells in human atherosclerotic lesions, implicating the involvement of a local cellular immune response. The identity of the antigen(s) eliciting this immune response, the extent of their effect, and the atherogenic stage at which they occur remain to be determined. In the present studies, 120 normocholesterolemic New Zealand White rabbits were immunized one or more times with various antigens, with or without adjuvants. The antigens and adjuvants included human or rabbit atherosclerotic lesion proteins, ovalbumin, Freund's complete and/or incomplete adjuvants, recombinant mycobacterial heat shock protein 65 (hsp65), and two hsp-free adjuvants, Ribi complete adjuvant and lipopeptide. In addition, some groups received a high-cholesterol diet. Sixteen weeks after the first immunization the animals were killed, and arteriosclerotic lesions in the intima of the aortic arch were found to have developed only in those animals immunized with antigenic preparations containing hsp, either in the form of whole mycobacteria or as purified recombinant hsp65, although their serum cholesterol levels were normal. No arteriosclerotic changes exceeding those of controls were found in the other groups, irrespective of the antigen used. Immunohistopathologic examination revealed that the lesions contained 20% T cells, 10-30% macrophages, and 10-40% smooth muscle cells. Analysis of the peripheral blood T-lymphocyte proliferative responses revealed that the occurrence of lesions was positively correlated with the presence of hsp65-reactive T cells, suggesting that hsp65 is involved in the induction of arteriosclerotic lesions. Furthermore, combined immunization with hsp-containing material and a cholesterol-rich diet provoked development of significantly more severe atherosclerosis and the appearance of characteristic foam cells. We conclude that an (auto)immune response to hsp may initiate the development of atherosclerosis and that a high blood cholesterol level is only one albeit a very important risk factor.

Characterization and developmental expression of Xenopus C/EBP gene

The Xenopus homolog of the transcription factor C/EBP (CCAAT/enhancer core binding protein), cloned from an adult Xenopus liver cDNA library, encodes a protein whose sequence is 67% homologous to that of rat C/EBP at the amino acid level, with virtually identical sequence of the basic-zipper region at the carboxyl terminus. As determined by gel electrophoretic mobility shift assays, the protein synthesized from xC/EBP cDNA bound specifically to the consensus binding site for C/EBP-like proteins. Northern blotting and RNase protection revealed a single species of xC/EBP mRNA of 2.7 kb which was most abundant in adult Xenopus liver, with smaller amounts in spleen, kidney, oviduct and brain and undetectable in heart and skeletal muscle. Although a small amount of this transcript could be detected in unfertilized eggs and early embryos, its accumulation rose sharply at the onset of metamorphosis (stage 55/56), and continued to increase through metamorphic climax to reach its highest level in stage 66 froglet liver, but thereafter declining in adult liver. In situ hybridization revealed a uniform pattern of distribution of xC/EBP mRNA in the liver and fat body throughout metamorphosis. Towards the end of metamorphosis, high levels of xC/EBP mRNA were detected in epithelial cells of the digestive tract. However, the spatial pattern of cells expressing the transcript changed markedly in the developing kidney. Our results suggest that xC/EBP may be involved as a transcription factor in the establishment of the adult phenotype during post-embryonic development of Xenopus.

Lipid utilization by human lymphocytes is correlated with high-density-lipoprotein binding site activity

The nature and physiological importance of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) binding sites on unstimulated (resting) and mitogen-activated (blast) human peripheral blood lymphocytes were investigated. Specific HDL binding on resting and blast T-lymphocytes was saturable at 50 micrograms of 125I-HDL/ml and of high affinity, with Kd values of 8.1 x 10(-8) M and 6.5 x 10(-8) M, respectively, and Bmax. values of 79 ng and 180 ng/mg of cell protein respectively at 4 degrees C. Binding of HDL double-labelled with fluorescent dioctadecylindocarbocyanine (Dil) and isotope (125I) as well as of single fluorescence- or isotope-labelled HDL was inhibited competitively by HDL apoproteins. Studies of the cholesterol flux between the cells and HDL showed that HDL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or BSA at a concentration of 100 micrograms/ml in the tissue culture medium did not result in a significant difference in exogenous [3H]cholesterol efflux from the cell membrane at 37 degrees C. Proliferating T-blasts incorporated more cholesterol from HDL or LDL than did resting lymphocytes. When the cells were pulsed with 125I-HDL and chased in fresh lipid-free medium, up to 80% of the radioactivity released was not precipitable with trichloroacetic acid. This percentage decreased in a competitive manner when unlabelled HDL was present in the chase incubation medium. Finally, cultivation of lymphocytes with conditioned medium from macrophages increased Dil-HDL binding/uptake, while it was decreased by mevinolin-induced inhibition of hydroxymethylglutaryl-coA reductase. In conclusion, human lymphocytes possess a HDL binding site (receptor) responsible for lipid binding/uptake and concomitant internalization and degradation of apoproteins from HDL, but not for reverse cell membrane cholesterol transport. The activity of the binding site is up-regulated during cell proliferation and down-regulated during cell growth suppression.

The influence of bile salts on small intestinal motility in the guinea pig in vitro

The effect of bile salts on intestinal motility is unclear. In the current study, isometric contractions of the guinea pig terminal ileum were examined in vitro. Dose-response curves to known agonists cholecystokinin (CCK), bethanechol, and KCl were constructed alone and in the presence of atropine (10(-6) mol/L), tetrodotoxin (10(-6) mol/L), and different bile salts, namely, taurodeoxycholate, tauroursodeoxycholate, taurocholate, glycodeoxycholate, and glycoursodeoxycholate. These bile salts, at levels as low as 5 and 50 mumol/L, significantly depressed (P less than 0.05) CCK-induced contractions throughout the dose-response curves and were concentration dependent. This depressant effect was not dependent on the bile salt species or any apparent physicochemical differences between them. The inhibitory effect was also specific for certain agonists such as CCK (the action of which was partially mediated by cholinergic nerves, being depressed by atropine and abolished by tetrodotoxin), field stimulation, and nicotine. Bile salts had no effect on either bethanechol- or KCl-induced contractions. Such bile salt inhibition of excitatory, cholinergic, enteric neurons may slow transit through the ileum, enhancing the time for absorption and conserving the bile salt pool.

Leukocyte chemotactic activity of cyclophilin

During the purification of eosinophil chemotactic factors synthesized by the uterus in response to estrogen we isolated a protein having an N-terminal (15 amino acids) sequence identical to that of rat cyclophilin. Our data demonstrate that cyclophilin, a cytosolic protein isolated from bovine thymocytes, which specifically binds the immunosuppressive drug cyclosporin A, as well as recombinant human cyclophilin, displays eosinophil chemotactic activity. In addition to its chemotactic activity, cyclophilin stimulated the release of peroxidase activity from eosinophils. Maximal chemotactic activity of cyclophilin was achieved at a concentration of approximately 10 nM. At similar concentrations cyclophilin was also able to stimulate the migration of neutrophils. This chemotactic activity could be prevented by the addition of cyclosporin A, but not by a nonimmunosuppressive analog (1-fur-furyl-cyclosporin A) at similar concentrations. This chemotactic activity may represent an additional mechanism by which immunosuppressive drugs function to prevent tissue rejection.

Dependency on the brain function of arginine vasopressin system of the development to and recovery from analgesic tolerance to morphine

Concomitant intracerebroventricular (i.c.v.) injection of anti-arginine vasopressin (AVP) antiserum dose-dependently suppressed the development of analgesic tolerance to daily morphine, 10 mg/kg, s.c., in mice. This suppressive effect of the antiserum was reduced by incubating the antiserum with AVP in vitro, before i.c.v. injection, suggesting that the antiserum inactivates brain AVP to result in the suppression of the development of tolerance in vivo. Similar to the antiserum, both AVP V1 and V2 antagonists given i.c.v., 10 ng and 20 ng/mouse, respectively, suppressed the development of morphine tolerance. Meanwhile, the administration of antiserum dose-dependently recovered morphine analgesia in morphine-tolerant mice and a complete recovery of analgesia was observed at the highest dose of antiserum following the second injection, and the effect of antiserum was maintained for 3 days after its withdrawal. Likewise, 10-100 ng/mouse of AVP V1 receptor antagonist given i.c.v. recovered morphine analgesia partially but significantly in a dose-dependent manner; however, AVP V2 receptor antagonist at the same doses partially recovered analgesic effect but the effect was neither significant nor dose-dependent. These findings suggest that the tolerance developed to morphine can be reversible when disturbing the function of brain AVP, but in addition to the different mechanisms of antiserum, V1 and V2 receptor antagonists, the V1 receptor-mediated mechanism may be more closely concerned in this phenomenon.

Synthesis, characterization, and antitumor activity of new chloroethylamine platinum complexes

A series of cis-bis-(2-chloroethylamine)platinum(II) and platinum(IV) complexes were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, and 1H and 195Pt NMR spectroscopic techniques. Complexes were tested in vitro against murine L1210 leukemia and human ovarian A2780 cell lines and in vivo against the L1210 leukemia model. Some of these complexes showed excellent antitumor activity in both systems. However, all were inactive against cisplatin-resistant A2780/CP cells.

Ontogeny of the production of an estrogen-regulated eosinophil chemotactic factor in the rat uterus

The ontogeny of an estrogen-induced eosinophil chemotactic activity in the uterus after estrogen administration and its regulation by progesterone was studied in neonatal rats at 3, 7, 10, and 13 days of age. These results were compared with the increase in peroxidase activity and the secretion of complement component C3 by the uterus. No chemotactic activity was observed in animals younger than 14 days, and after this age the estrogen regulation of the response was also prevented by the co-administration of progesterone. The secretion of complement C3 appeared earlier, at 10 days of age. It was also observed that the uterus of 3-7-day-old rats responded to estrogen by increasing the secretion of two proteins of 36 and 110 kDa. No further regulation or synthesis was observed with increasing age for these two proteins.

[Characterization of HDL receptor and its ligand in cultured smooth muscle cells isolated from rabbit aorta]

The characteristics of HDL3 binding sites on cultured smooth muscle cells originally isolated from rabbit aorta were studied with 125I-labelled rabbit HDL3. The results indicated that specific and high-affinity HDL3 binding sites were present on the surface of smooth muscle cells (Bmax = 0.321 micrograms/mg cell protein; KD = 5.6 x 10(-8) mol/L). The presence of a high concentration of non-labelled apo A1 blocked the 125I-HDL3 binding rate by 50%. 125I-HDL3 pretreated (blocked) with rat antirabbit apo A1 IgG lost up to 70% of its original binding activity. Additionally, rabbit apo A1 was isolated, purified and its amino acid composition analyzed. The binding rate of 125I-HDL3 to smooth muscle cells was not affected by the presence of various concentrations of cholesterol. It was also relatively unaffected by trypsin or pronase treatment and independent of Ca2+ concentration. The optimal temperature and pH were 4 degrees C and 2 respectively. All of these characteristics differ from those of the LDL receptors. These results suggest that apo A1 is a major ligand of HDL3 receptors.

Influence of the 53 kDa glycoprotein on the cooperativity of the Ca(2+)-ATPase of the sarcoplasmic reticulum

Previous results from this laboratory suggest that the 53 kDa glycoprotein (GP-53) of rabbit skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane (SR) may influence coupling between Ca2+ transport and ATP hydrolysis by the Ca(2+)-ATPase. Here we report evidence that GP-53 may influence the cooperative behavior of the Ca(2+)-ATPase. The ATPase activity of the Ca(2+)-ATPase displays negative cooperative dependence (Hill coefficient n less than 1) on [MgATP] and has positive cooperative dependence (n greater than 1) on [Ca2+]free. We have determined the degree of cooperativity for native SR vesicles, SR preincubated with antiserum against GP-53 or preimmune serum, and SR partially extracted with KCl-cholate. Our results show that SR preincubated with preimmune serum or SR treated with cholate in 50 mM KCl (yielding membranes rich in GP-53) demonstrate a cooperative dependence of Ca(2+)-ATPase activity on both [ATP] and [Ca2+] similar to that of untreated SR. SR preincubated with anti-GP-53 antiserum (which causes an uncoupling of Ca2+ transport from ATP hydrolysis) or SR extracted with cholate in 1 M KCl (yielding membranes depleted of GP-53) displays decreased positive cooperative dependence on [Ca2+] and decreased negative cooperative dependence on [ATP]. The results are consistent with the interpretation that GP-53 may influence the cooperative behavior of the Ca(2+)-ATPase.

[Effect of rhizoma Zingiberis on anoxic or cooled mice]

The anti-anoxic experiments have indicated that the petroleum ether extract of Rhizoma Zingiberis can prolong the survival time in mice poisoned by KCN or under the condition of normobaric hypoxia, as well as decapitation-induced gasping duration in mice, but can not prolong the survival time in mice poisoned by NaNO4. The anti-anoxic action might be related to the reduction rate of O2 consumption of the body. The aqueous extract of Rhizoma Zingiberis does not possess the above-mentioned anti-anoxic action. Both extracts do not affect the survival time in cooled mice.

The effect of estradiol on the production and secretion of complement component 3 by the rat uterus and surgically induced endometriotic tissue

We have recently demonstrated that glandular epithelial cells isolated from human endometriotic tissue synthesize and secrete complement component 3 (C3). Furthermore, because C3 is capable of producing many of the immunological activities known to be associated with human endometriosis, we studied the production, secretion, and regulation of C3 using the rat model for endometriosis. Endometriosis was surgically induced in 20 adult female rats. The animals were then ovariectomized and one half were treated with estradiol (E2) for 3 days. Uterine luminal epithelial cells synthesized and secreted C3 only after E2 administration, whereas the uteri from control animals did not produce C3. In contrast, the ectopic endometrium from control animals produced and secreted C3, and this expression was strongly upregulated by in vivo E2 administration. We conclude that surgically induced endometriosis in the rat has properties biochemically independent from the intact uterus and may serve as a useful model to further investigate the regulation of C3 synthesis from human endometriosis.

Domain structure in yeast tRNA ligase

Yeast tRNA ligase is one of two proteins required for the splicing of precursor tRNA molecules containing introns. The 95-kDa tRNA ligase has been purified to homogeneity from a strain of Escherichia coli which overexpresses the protein. The ligation reaction requires three enzymatic activities: phosphodiesterase, polynucleotide kinase, and ligase. By partial proteolytic digestion, we have produced fragments of tRNA ligase which contain the constituent activities. These results provide evidence for a model in which the three constituent activities of ligase are located in three distinct domains separated by protease-sensitive regions. We have also located the active adenylylated site in the ligase domains. It is lysine-114. The tRNA ligase sequence in this region has limited homology to the active-site region of T4 RNA ligase.

The projection of spinocerebellar neurons from the sacrococcygeal region of the spinal cord in the cat. An experimental study using anterograde transport of WGA-HRP and degeneration

The projection from the sacro-coccygeal region of the spinal cord to the cerebellum was studied by two different techniques in the cat. In five cats wheat germ agglutinin-horseradish peroxidase conjugate (WGA-HRP) was injected caudal to a preceding unilateral cordotomy at the sacral level, aimed at interrupting the spinocerebellar tracts on one side completely, and the distribution of WGA-HRP labeled mossy fibers and mossy fiber terminals was studied in the cerebellum. In three additional cats, degenerating fibers were examined in Fink-Heimer stained sections following unilateral transection of the lateral and ventral funiculi at L7 or S3 level. In the WGA-HRP experiments the labeled mossy fiber terminals were located bilaterally in lobules I-V. Most of them were found in the anterior part of lobule II. In addition, labeled terminals were observed in sublobule VIIIB and in pars copularis of the paramedian lobule, contralateral to the cordotomy. The terminals in the anterior lobe were concentrated in longitudinal zones parallel to the mid sagittal plane. In lobule II, the terminals were most abundant in the superficial, apical parts of the folia. Some presumed terminals were also seen in the cerebellar nuclei. Labeled fibers were found contralateral, but not ipsilateral to the cordotomy in the superior and inferior cerebellar peduncles, as well as in the spinal cord rostral to the cordotomy. The results of the degeneration experiments were the same as those of the WGA-HRP experiments with regard to the detailed projections in the cerebellar cortex. This is strong support against the possibility that WGA-HRP labeled cerebellar mossy fiber terminals, following WGA-HRP injections in the spinal cord, would represent terminals of collaterals of retrogradely labeled neurons. It also lends strong support in favour of WGA-HRP as a reliable anterograde tracer for studying cerebellar cortical projections of spinocerebellar neurons in the cat.

The stimulation of uterine complement component C3 gene expression by antiestrogens

We have previously demonstrated that complement component C3 is regulated by estradiol in the rat uterus. The antiestrogens tamoxifen, LY117018, and LY156758 exert both agonist and antagonist effects on the immature rat uterus. In this study, these three antiestrogens also stimulated an increase in the synthesis and secretion of C3. The combination of LY117018 and estradiol did not increase C3 to a greater extent than LY117018 alone, which suggests a similar mechanism of regulation. The regulation may be transcriptional since both estradiol and tamoxifen increase the concentration of C3 mRNA. Results of in situ hybridization revealed that the increase in C3 mRNA occurred in the luminal epithelial cells. Although the induction by estradiol and the antiestrogens was similar in most aspects, the time course for tamoxifen-stimulated synthesis differed from estradiol in that the time required to achieve maximal concentrations of C3 was delayed by 12 h with tamoxifen. This pattern did not appear to be related to the time it took to convert tamoxifen to 4-hydroxytamoxifen since the C3 response for these antiestrogens were identical. The antiestrogen-stimulated increase in C3 synthesis and mRNA concentration was prevented by the co-administration of progesterone lending support to the hypothesis that the antiestrogens regulate C3 synthesis via a mechanism similar to estrogen.

Cytoarchitectonic organization of the spinal cord in the rat: II. The cervical and upper thoracic cord

A laminar cytoarchitectonic scheme of the cervical and upper thoracic segments of the rat spinal cord is presented in which Rexed's principles for the cat are applied. The material examined in the current investigation consists of 50-80 microns-thick unstained or Nissl-stained sections, and 2 microns-thick plastic-embedded sections stained with paraphenylenediamine. The cytoarchitectonic organization was found to be basically similar to that of the cat. As in our previous study of the cytoarchitectonic organization of the lower thoracic and lumbosacral spinal cord (Molander et al.; J. Comp. Neurol. 230:133-141, '84), the borderlines between the laminae were often found to be ambiguous, suggestive of zones of transition rather than sharp borders. In addition to the laminar scheme, the distribution of certain important cell groups, including the column of Clarke, the central cervical nucleus, the lateral cervical nucleus, the lateral spinal nucleus, and the internal basilar nucleus, is described.

Evaluation of anti-allergic effects of 1-substituted 2-n-butyl-methylenedioxy indenes

The effects of ten 1-substituted 2-n-butyl-5,6-methylenedioxyindenes on mice and guinea pigs were investigated for their allergic reactions in the development of a new anti-allergic drug. Anti-allergic effects were determined by testing the effect of agents on passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in mice and Schultz-Dale reaction in guinea pig tracheal muscle. 2-Butyl-1-[N-methyl-N-[2-(N',N'-dimethylamino) ethyl]amino]5,6- methylenedioxyindene (1) indicated the most potent anti-allergic activity. Since our previous experiments indicated that 2-n-butyl 3-dimethyl amino-5,6-methylenedioxyindene (MDI-A) and its derivatives showed a potent anti-allergic effect by interfering with the calcium (Ca) movement in the allergic reaction in guinea pigs, the effect of 1 and MDI-A on allergic reaction and Ca-induced contraction of tracheal muscle in these animals were compared. The present data indicate the superiority of 1 in both reactions.