Transient expression of a winged-helix protein, MNF-beta, during myogenesis

A novel winged-helix transcription factor, MNF-beta, is expressed coincidentally with cell cycle withdrawal and differentiation of skeletal myogenic cells. MNF-beta is closely related to the myocyte nuclear factor (MNF) protein previously described (now termed MNF-alpha), but expression of the two isoforms is differentially regulated, and they exhibit distinctive functional properties with respect to DNA binding in vitro and transcriptional regulatory activity in transient-transfection assays. A DNA sequence motif binding MNF-beta with high affinity was selected from a library of random oligonucleotides and was found to be similar to but distinct from the cognate binding site for HNF-3beta, a more distantly related winged-helix protein. The temporal pattern of MNF-beta expression and the presence of MNF binding motifs within conserved promoter elements of several genes that modulate cell cycle progression support a working hypothesis that MNF proteins may modulate proliferation of myogenic precursor cells during development and muscle regeneration.

Orientation of photosynthetic reaction center reconstituted in neutral and charged liposomes

The photosynthetic reaction center from the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodobacter sphaeroides was reconstituted into neutral, positively charged, or negatively charged liposomes. About 70% of photosynthetic reaction centers were reconstituted in the proteoliposomes exposing their H-subunit outside with positively charged lipids while only 30-40% of them were in the same topological orientation with neutral or negatively charged lipids.

Seroreactivity to an envelope protein of human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma virus in patients with CD3- (natural killer) lymphoproliferative disease of granular lymphocytes

Natural killer (NK) cells are CD3- large granular lymphocytes (LGL) responsible for immunity against viral infections. A chronic lymphoproliferative disorder of NK cells has been described in which the expanded NK cells display a restricted phenotype and cytotoxic activity. These data raise the hypothesis that proliferating LGL in these patients result from discrete expansions of NK cells responding to an unknown, perhaps viral, antigen. Recently, it was found that mice transgenic for the tax gene of human T-cell leukemia/lymphoma virus (HTLV) develop NK leukemia. Therefore, we studied 15 patients with chronic NK lymphoproliferative disorder for evidence of HTLV infection. Sera were tested using an HTLV-I/II-enzyme linked immunosorbent assay and a modified Western blot assay containing recombinant env proteins. None of the sera met conventional criteria for HTLV seroreactivity. However, sera from 11 patients (73%) reacted with the recombinant HTLV env protein p21E. The anti-p21E reactivity of these sera was then mapped employing the recombinant proteins GD21 and BA21. No reactivity to the immunodominant HTLV epitope GD21 was observed, suggesting that prototypical HTLV infection is unlikely in these patients. This was confirmed by finding no evidence for HTLV nucleic acids by PCR analyses employing primers specific for conserved regions in the env, pol, and pX genes. In contrast, 10 of the 15 sera reacted with the epitope BA21, documenting for the first time an association between a unique seroreactivity and disease. The high incidence of BA21 seroreactivity in these patients suggests that exposure to a protein containing homology to BA21 may be important in the pathogenesis of this lymphoproliferative disorder.

The AT4 receptor agonist [Nle1]-angiotensin IV reduces mechanically induced immediate-early gene expression in the isolated rabbit heart

Angiotensin II (ANG II), acting principally at the AT1 receptor, modulates mechanically-induced cardiac growth. The ANG II metabolite Angiotensin IV (ANG IV) has been shown to inhibit ANG II-induced mRNA and protein synthesis in chick cardiomyocytes. This effect did not involve the AT1 receptor, but was likely an action at the AT4 receptor. To determine if ANG IV also modulates a mechanically-induced cardiac growth response, we studied the effects of two AT4 receptor ligands, [Nle1]-ANG IV and [divalinal]-ANG IV, on mechanically-induced immediate-early gene expression (c-fos, egr-1, and c-jun) in the buffer perfused (30 degrees C), ejecting, isolated rabbit heart. Mechanical load alone (high systolic pressure and high end-diastolic volume) induced approximately 23-, 49- and 5-fold increases in c-fos, egr-1 and c-jun mRNA (in comparison to control hearts). Perfusion with [Nle1]-ANG IV (10[-10] mol/l) reduced the mechanically-induced expression of c-/fos and egr-1 by 42% and 48%, respectively (P < 0.05). Mechanically-induced c-jun expression was not significantly reduced. Perfusion with [divalinal]-ANG IV (10[-8] mol/l) had no effect on mechanically-induced immediate-early gene expression. We conclude that AT4 receptor agonism influences mechanical immediate-early gene expression, and propose the hypothesis that AT1 and AT4 receptors initiate opposing effects on mechanically-induced immediate-early gene expression in the isolated rabbit left ventricle.

Persistent expression of MNF identifies myogenic stem cells in postnatal muscles

Skeletal muscles contain an undifferentiated myogenic stem cell pool (satellite cells) that can be mobilized to regenerate myofibers in response to injury. We have determined that the winged helix transcription factor MNF is expressed selectively in quiescent satellite cells, which do not express known regulators of the myogenic program. Following muscle injury, MNF is present transiently in proliferating satellite cells and in centralized nuclei of regenerating myofibers, but expression declines as these fibers mature, until only the residual stem cell pool continues to express detectable levels of MNF. MNF also is expressed selectively but transiently at embryonic stages of myogenesis in the developing myotome, limb bud precursors, and heart tube, but by late fetal stages of development, MNF is down-regulated within differentiated cardiac and skeletal myocytes, and persistently high expression is observed only in satellite cells. These data identify MNF as a marker of quiescent satellite cells and suggest that downstream genes controlled by MNF serve to modulate proliferative growth or differentiation in this unique cell population.

Trends in capillary electrophoresis: 1997

This article is intended to present an overview of developments in the field of capillary electrophoresis (CE) and its application to the analysis of micro-environments. Instrumental developments in injection and detection methods and the separation chemistries are outlined. Emphasis is placed on methods and means that have significantly improved the capability of CE. Subsequently, several selected applications to the exploration of microenvironments such as CE-based sensors, CE on microchip, and single cell analysis are described. The recent advancements in these areas are highlighted.

[Studies on the quality control of shangke wangshui]

Shangke Wangshui is a new Chinese traditional patent medicine. Its main ingredients Coptis Chinsis Franch, Phellodendron amurense Rupr. and Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. were identified by TLC and PC. The content of active component berberine in Shangke Wangshui was determined by TLC-scanner. This mothod is simple, quick and highly reproducible and can be as a quality control standards for this preparation.

Size-exclusion chromatographic reconstitution of the bovine brain benzodiazepine receptor. Effects of lipid environment on the binding characteristics

The benzodiazepine receptor from calf brain was solubilized with sodium deoxycholate (2 mg/ml) in the presence of 0.5 M KCl and protease inhibitors, and bound flunitrazepam with an equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd) of 2.7 +/- 1.2 nM and with 0.40 +/- 0.04 pmol binding sites per mg protein (Bmax). Up to 60% of the benzodiazepine binding sites (average 25%) could be reconstituted in lipid vesicles, upon size-exclusion chromatography of protein-detergent-lipid mixtures on Sephadex G-50 Medium for detergent depletion. The flunitrazepam affinity for the reconstituted receptor varied with the lipid composition (Kd 1.4-4 nM). Freezing and thawing increased the size of the small proteoliposomes obtained by chromatographic reconstitution and, on the average, doubled the number of operative flunitrazepam binding sites. When the proteoliposomes were stored at -20 degrees C or -80 degrees C or in lyophilized state, the receptor retained its benzodiazepine binding affinity and Bmax over a period of 2 months.

Location of the internal ribosome entry site in the 5' non-coding region of the immunoglobulin heavy-chain binding protein (BiP) mRNA: evidence for specific RNA-protein interactions

The 220 nucleotide 5'non-coding region (5'NCR) of the human immunoglobulin heavy chain binding protein (BiP) mRNA contains an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) that mediates the translation of the second cistron in a dicistronic mRNA in cultured mammalian cells. In this study, experiments are presented that locate the IRES immediately upstream of the start-site AUG codon in the BiP mRNA. Furthermore, crosslinking of thiouridine-labeled BiP IRES-containing RNA to cellular proteins identified the specific binding of two proteins, p60 and p95, to the 3'half of the BiP 5'NCR. Interestingly, both p60 and p95 bound also specifically to several viral IRES elements. This correlation suggests that p60 and p95 could have roles in internal initiation of cellular and viral IRES elements.

Effects of lipid headgroup and packing stress on poly(ethylene glycol)-induced phospholipid vesicle aggregation and fusion

The effect of lipid headgroup and curvature-related acyl packing stress on PEG-induced phospholipid vesicle aggregation and fusion were studied by measuring vesicle and aggregate sizes using the quasi-elastic light scattering and fluorescence energy transfer techniques. The effect of the lipid headgroup was monitored by varying the relative phosphatidylcholine (PC) and phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) contents in the vesicles, and the influence of hydrocarbon chain packing stress was controlled either by the relative amount of PE and PC content in the vesicles, or by the degree of unsaturation of the acyl chains of a series of PEs, e.g., dilinoleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (dilin-PE), lysophosphatidylethanolamine (lyso-PE), and transacylated egg phosphatidylethanolamine (TPE). The PEG threshold for aggregation depends only weakly on the headgroup composition of vesicles. However, in addition to the lipid headgroup, the curvature stress of the monolayer that forms the vesicle walls plays a very important role in fusion. Highly stressed vesicles, i.e., vesicles containing PE with highly unsaturated chains, need less PEG to induce fusion. This finding applies to the fusion of both small unilamellar vesicles and large unilamellar vesicles. The effect of electrostatic charge on vesicle aggregation and fusion were studied by changing the pH of the vesicle suspension media. At pH 9, when PE headgroups are weakly charged, increasing electrostatic repulsion between headgroups on the same bilayer surface reduces curvature stress, whereas increasing electrostatic repulsion between apposing bilayer headgroups hinders intervesicle approach, both of which inhibit aggregation and fusion, as expected.

Epstein-Barr virus episomes as targets for cigarette smoke- and gamma-irradiation-induced DNA damage: studies on the EBNA-1 region by a new gene-specific technique

Following our demonstration of cytochrome P450-independent DNA damage induced by aqueous solutions of cigarette smoke in human mucosal cells in vivo, and in a lymphoblastoid cell line, we have developed a new technique to demonstrate gene-region specific DNA damage, with the EBNA-1 gene present in multiple nuclear matrix-attached episomes in Raji cells serving as an amplified target. DNA was extracted from Raji cells treated by gamma-irradiation or aqueous solutions of cigarette smoke; adducted bases or other damage were removed chemically by depurination/alkali treatment. Single-strand breaks induced directly by cigarette smoke as well as DNA cleaved at the site of former adducts were end-labelled either with alpha-[32P]dCTP or with biotin-16-dUTP. With 32P-labelling, a dose-dependent increase in DNA labelling was seen for different concentrations of cigarette smoke; undiluted smoke produced a similar amount of damage as 22.4 Gy of gamma-irradiation. For isolation of DNA regions that contained biotin label at the sites of former damage, DNA was cut by restriction endonucleases and 3-kb-fragments including the target gene, EBV-EBNA-1, were isolated by agarose-gel electrophoresis. Those containing biotin were selected on streptavidin-coated magnetic beads. PCR amplification of the bound DNA revealed EBNA-1 DNA only when cells were pretreated with either cigarette smoke or gamma-irradiation. The presented method thus provides a new approach for detecting gene-specific damage in a readily accessible target, EBV episomes. The method is also potentially applicable for studying single-copy genes such as p53, the types of adducts involved, and quantitative aspects of DNA damage and its repair.

Branched-chain transaminase and keto acid dehydrogenase activities in burned rats: evidence for a differential adaptation according to sex

Female and male rats show differences in nitrogen metabolism after trauma, and the contribution of the branched-chain amino acid oxidizing pathway following thermal injury was evaluated. Female and male rats were subdivided into baseline, burned and unburned, pair-fed groups. Burned and pair-fed rats were sacrificed on days 1, 2, and 3 postburn, and branched-chain amino acid transaminase (BCTA), branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) activated and total, and succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activities were measured in red and white muscle and in liver, BCTA was not measured in liver. Baseline and pair-fed groups had similar enzyme activities. Changes following thermal injury were: (1) elevated SDH in all tissues for both sexes; (2) increased BCTA activity in red and white muscles from male rats; and (3) increased percentage of activated BCKDH in red and white muscles on days 2 and 3 for male rats. All other activities were unchanged. These findings agree with previous post trauma differences in urinary nitrogen losses in female and male rats. The results show that the enzymes for oxidation of the branched-chain amino acids in males respond to injury while those do not in females.

Factors determining the specificity of signal transduction by guanine nucleotide-binding protein-coupled receptors. Integration of stimulatory and inhibitory input to the effector adenylyl cyclase

To define the integration of multiple signals by different types of adenylyl cyclase (AC) within the cell, we altered the population of enzymes expressed in the cell and determined the subsequent processing of stimulatory and inhibitory input. DDT1-MF2 cells expressed AC VI-IX and were stably transfected with AC II, III, or IV. Enzyme expression was confirmed by RNA blot analysis and functional assays. Basal enzyme activity was only increased in AC II transfectants (6-fold). Maximum stimulation of enzyme activity was increased in each of the AC transfectants to varying extents. alpha2A/D-AR activation elicited enzyme type-specific responses. alpha2-AR activation inhibited the effect of isoproterenol in control transfectants, and this action was magnified in AC III transfectants. In AC II and AC IV transfectants, alpha2-AR activation initiated both positive (Gbetagamma) and negative signals (Gialpha) to the Gsalpha-stimulated enzyme, and both types of signals were blocked by cell pretreatment with pertussis toxin. The negative input to AC II from the alpha2-AR was blocked by protein kinase C activation in AC II transfectants, but it was the positive input to AC IV that was compromised by protein kinase C activation. These data indicate that the integration of multiple signals by adenylyl cyclases is a dynamic process depending upon the enzyme type and phosphorylation status.

The 3'-untranslated region of the alpha2C-adrenergic receptor mRNA impedes translation of the receptor message

We report that two subtypes of alpha2-adrenergic receptors (alpha2A/D- and alpha2C-AR) are ectopically expressed with dramatically different efficiencies and that this difference is due to a 288-nucleotide (nt) segment in the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR) of the alpha2C-AR mRNA that impairs translational processing. NIH-3T3 fibroblasts were transfected with receptor constructs (coding region plus 552 nt, alpha2C-AR; coding region plus 1140 nt, alpha2A/D-AR) and a vector conferring G418 resistance. Transcription was driven by the murine sarcoma virus promoter element, and the receptor gene segment was upstream of an SV40 polyadenylation cassette. Drug-resistant transfectants were evaluated for expression of receptor mRNA and protein. 90% of the NIH-3T3 alpha2C-AR transfectants expressed receptor mRNA, but only 14% of the clonal cell lines expressed receptor protein. In contrast, 90% of the NIH-3T3 alpha2A/D-AR transfectants expressed receptor protein (200-5000 fmol/mg). Similar results were obtained following transfection of DDT1MF-2 cells with the two receptor constructs. The role of the 3'-UTR of the alpha2C-AR in mRNA processing was determined by generating new constructs in which the 3'-UTR was progressively truncated from 552 to 470, 182, 143, or 74 nt 3' to the stop codon. Truncation of the 3'-UTR resulted in the expression of receptor protein in the G418-resistant transfectants (nt 74, 100%; nt 143, 80%; nt 182, 50%). The level of mRNA in the transfectants expressing the receptor protein was not greater than that in nonexpressing clones, and the differences in protein expression did not reflect altered mRNA stability in the truncated construct. The alpha2C-AR mRNA with the longer 3'-UTR underwent translational initiation as it was found in the polysome fraction, indicating that the lack of receptor protein was due to impaired translational elongation or termination. These data suggest that translational efficiency is a key mechanism for regulating alpha2C-AR expression and associated signaling events.

[Colour Doppler ultrasonographic indices in predicting fetal hypoxia and acidosis]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of uterine-placental-fetal blood flow velocity waveforms (FVWs) on predicting fetal hypoxia and acidosis in high risk pregnancy.

METHODS

46 women of normal term pregnancy (normal group) and 32 women of high risk term pregnancy (high risk group) were examined with colour Doppler ultrasound for their FVWs including maternal uterine artery (UtA), fetal umbilical artery (UmA), middle cerebral artery (MCA), and renal artery (RA). Umbilical artery blood gases were analysed at delivery in high risk group.

RESULTS

The resistance index (RI), pulsatile index (PI) and ratio of peak systolic to least diastolic flow velocity (S/D) of UtA, UmA and RA were higher and the PI, S/D of MCA was lower significantly in the high risk group than that of normal the group (P < 0.05). In the high risk pregnancy, when UmA PO2 was less than 2.5 kPa, the S/D of UtA, PI, S/D of UmA and RI, PI, S/D of RA were increased, and the PI of MCA was decreased (P < 0.05). There were a positive correlation between PI of UmA, RA and PO2 pH of UmA, and a negative correlation between the former and PCO2 of UmA. But there were a negative correlation between PI of MCA and PO2, pH of UmA, and a positive correlation between the former and UmA PCO2.

CONCLUSION

In the high risk pregnancy, fetal cerebral blood flow increased, whereas blood flow of fetal peripheral vessels (especially renal vessel) decreases. There is a good correlation between fetal hypoxia and fetal blood FVWs. The indices of the fetal blood FVMs can identify fetal hypoxia and acidosis.

Modulation of endothelin production and metabolism in guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells by peptidase inhibitors

Endothelins (ET-1, ET-2, ET-3) are potent bronchoconstrictors and growth-promoting mediators. They are released from various cells such as endothelial and epithelial cells. In the airways, ETs are released under basal and stimulated conditions. In patients with status asthmaticus and other pulmonary disorders, the expression and production of ET-1 are increased. We investigated the activities of endothelin-converting enzymes (ECE) and endothelin-degrading enzymes, mostly neutral endopeptidases (NEP), in guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells in culture through the use of various enzyme inhibitors. We found that among ETs, only ET-1 was steadily released under basal conditions over 24 h. The basal production was attenuated by both phosphoramidon and CGS 26 303, dual NEP and ECE inhibitors. Conversely, thiorphan, a selective NEP inhibitor, did not attenuate but rather increased the concentration of ET-1 in cell supernatants. CGS 24 592 and SQ 28 603, other NEP inhibitors, also increased the concentrations of ET-1 in cell supernatants in a concentration-dependent manner. However, at a high concentration, SQ 28 603 also inhibited the basal release of ET-1, which would suggest a non-selective inhibitory activity against ECE. These data suggest that ET-1 is simultaneously produced and degraded by guinea-pig tracheal epithelial cells via phosphoramidon-sensitive ECE and NEP pathways, respectively. This observation is of interest when considering that asthmatic patients were shown to have a damaged airway epithelium combined with the loss of NEP activity, which was associated with an increased expression and production of ET-1.

Effects of dexamethasone on the basal and cytokine-stimulated release of endothelin-1 from guinea-pig cultured tracheal epithelial cells

Endothelins (ETs) are potent bronchoconstrictor agents postulated to contribute to the pathophysiology of asthma and other respiratory disorders. An increase in both the expression and release of immunoreactive (ir) ETs was reported in bronchial epithelial cells and the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid of asthmatic patients. We investigated whether dexamethasone (DEX), a potent anti-inflammatory and anti-asthmatic drug, regulates the basal and stimulated release of ETs from guinea-pig cultured tracheal epithelial cells. These airway epithelial cells spontaneously release ET-1 over 24 h. When incubated in the presence of 10(-7) and 10(-6) M DEX for 24 h, basal production of ET-1 decreased by 32 and 29%. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 1, 5, 10 micrograms/mL), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF alpha; 5, 10 ng/mL), and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta; 1, 5 ng/mL) significantly increased the basal release of ET-1 after 24 h. When these cells were pretreated with DEX (10(-7) M) for a 24-h period, then incubated in the presence of LPS (10 micrograms/mL), TNF alpha (10 ng/mL), or IL-1 beta (1 ng/mL) for another 24 h, the stimulated release of ET-1 was inhibited by 48, 31, and 38%, respectively. At 10(-6) M, DEX decreased the stimulated release by 45, 37, and 46%, respectively. The present results show that DEX can regulate the basal release and inhibit the pro-inflammatory cytokine-stimulated production of ET-1 from guinea-pig cultured tracheal epithelial cells. They suggest that the beneficial effect of glucocorticoids in asthma may be related to the inhibition of ET synthesis.

S-100beta stimulates neurite outgrowth in the rat sciatic nerve grafted with acellular muscle transplants

S-100beta promotes neurite extension in vitro and motoneuron survival in the chicken embryo. We demonstrate here that local administration of S-100beta stimulates the sciatic nerve regeneration into acellular muscle grafts. Normally there is a 8-10 day delay in the regeneration of axons into such grafts. Local administration of S-100beta (0.5-1.0 microg/h) significantly stimulated regeneration into the grafts. In S-100beta treated grafts, the regeneration distance was increased with a factor of about 2.3 times as compared to vehicle treated grafts. The distance of regeneration was monitored with pinch test which detects sensory axons. Regenerating axons were growing outside the necrotic muscle cells as revealed with immunohistochemistry for the neurofilament light weight polypeptide. S-100beta was demonstrated immunocytochemically in motor neurons of the rat lumbar spinal cord and in large and medium sized neurons of the dorsal root ganglia. The results suggest that S-100beta is a physiological growth factor for peripheral nerve axons.

[Endoscopic reconstruction of 192 patients with traumatic urethral stenosis]

We treated traumatic urethral stenosis with endoscopic technique and observed effects. 192 men with traumatic urethral stenosis (47 with anterior urethral stenosis and 145 with posterior urethral stenosis) were treated with hydroelectric shock wave, cold knife, microwave and electroincission through transurethral endoscopy. We punched hole in the centre of the scar with hydroelectric shock waves for long segment urethral complete occlution. 43 patients were treated with obliteration and 50 with endoscopic operation again for 1-3 times. With a mean of 29. 3 months (range 3-60 months) of followup, 187 patients were treated successfully. Endoscopic operation has good effects on traumatic urethral stenosis with smaller trauma, and few complications.

[The monitoring of post cesarean section uterine scal with B-ultrasonographic and clinical detections]

OBJECTIVE

To find out an effective method for monitoring the healing of uterine incision after cesarean section.

METHODS

1,145 patients with cesarean section were monitored by B-ultrasonography. In 19 patients who revealed fluid mass in uterine incision, 10 cases were treated by percutaneous drainage under sonographic guidance and 9 cases as control.

RESULTS

According to sonographic characteristics, uterine incision healing can be divided into three conditions: normal type revealing a smooth strong echo's light band in uterine incision (93.97%), inflammatory type revealing an uneven parenchymatous light mass (3.67%), and fluid mass with inflammation revealing a complex light mass with low echo's or anechoic area (2.36%). There were abnormal clinical signs in most cases of inflammation. The percutaneous drainage therapy showed marked effect.

CONCLUSIONS

The monitoring of uterine incision healing by B-ultrasonography plays an important role in preventing late post-partum hemorrhage.

Serine/threonine phosphorylation of orphan receptor hepatocyte nuclear factor 4

We showed previously that hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 (HNF-4) defines a new subclass, Group IV, of nuclear receptors. In order to determine whether members of this subclass are phosphorylated, HNF-4 was overexpressed to high levels in insect cells using a baculovirus expression system. The baculovirus-expressed HNF-4 (HNF4.BV) was characterized and compared to HNF-4 overexpressed in transiently transfected mammalian (COS-7) cells (HNF4.COS). The results indicate that both HNF4.BV and HNF4.COS are phosphorylated although HNF4.BV was hypophosphorylated relative to HNF4.COS. Phosphoamino acid analysis showed that HNF-4 is phosphorylated mainly on serine and to a lesser extent on threonine residues. Phosphopeptide mapping revealed 13 phosphopeptides for HNF4.COS, only 9 of which were present in the HNF4.BV sample. DNA-binding studies also showed that HNF4.BV binds DNA with a lower specificity and affinity, as measured by the equilibrium dissociation constant (Kd), than does HNF4.COS. Partial proteolytic digestion experiments also revealed that HNF4.BV and HNF4.COS adopt somewhat different three-dimensional conformations. Since glycosylation of HNF4.BV was ruled out by a number of methods and since HNF-4 expressed in bacteria exhibited an even lower DNA-binding affinity than HNF4.BV, we propose that serine/theronine phosphorylation may play a role in the DNA-binding activity of HNF-4 and, therefore, possibly of other Group IV receptors as well.

Assembly of a nucleoprotein complex required for DNA packaging by bacteriophage lambda

A critical step in the assembly of bacteriophage lambda is the excision of a single genome from a concatemeric DNA precursor and insertion of genomic DNA into an empty viral capsid. DNA packaging is mediated by the lambda proteins gpNu1 and gpA, which form an enzyme complex known as terminase. Initiation of the packaging process requires assembly of the terminase subunits onto cos, the lambda DNA packaging sequence, and nicking of the duplex, thus forming the 12-base-pair "sticky" ends of the mature genome. We have utilized gel-retardation techniques to examine the interaction of gpNu1, gpA, and terminase holoenzyme with DNA. Our data demonstrate that gpNu1 interacts specifically with cos-containing DNA, forming three gel-retarded complexes. Similarly, the larger gpA subunit binds to DNA, forming two complexes; however, this subunit forms similar complexes with DNA substrates of random sequence. All of the nucleoprotein complexes examined are disrupted by elevated concentrations of NaCl and we suggest that altered DNA binding is responsible for the extreme salt sensitivity of the endonuclease activity of the enzyme [Tomka, M. A., & Catalano, C. E. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 3056-3065]. DNA binding by each subunit is strongly affected by the presence of the other, with 10- and 3-fold increases in the affinity of gpNu1 and gpA, respectively, for DNA. Moreover, our data suggest that the terminase subunits interact in solution prior to DNA binding. Finally, we provide evidence that complex I, the first stable intermediate in the packaging pathway, is composed of the mature left genome end bound to the terminase subunits and demonstrate that dissociation of the complex is quite slow (t1/2 > 8 h). The significance of these data with respect to terminase-mediated genome packaging is discussed.

[Study on the quality standard of Hippophae rhamnoides oil for pharmaceutical uses]

The quality control methods of the seed oil and fruit oil of Hippophae rhamnoides are studied. The physical and chemical factors are determined and the identification and determination methods for the bioactive compnents a-tocopherol and carotenes are established.

Does periconceptional multivitamin use reduce the risk for limb deficiency in offspring?

There is accumulating evidence that periconceptional multivitamin use may prevent the occurrence of some birth defects other than neural tube defects. Using data from the population-based Atlanta Birth Defects Case-Control Study, we investigated the possible association between periconceptional multivitamin use and the occurrence of limb deficiency. We examined the periconceptional use of multivitamins among mothers of 117 babies with nonsyndromic limb deficiency who were liveborn or stillborn to residents of metropolitan Atlanta from 1968 to 1980 and among mothers of 3,029 control babies born without birth defects who were randomly selected through birth certificates. We found that children whose mothers were periconceptional multivitamin users had a lower risk of having a limb deficiency [odds ratio (OR) = 0.47; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.23-0.97]. This protective effect, however, was mostly seen for transverse limb deficiency (OR = 0.30; 95% CI = 0.07-1.32) and not for longitudinal deficiency (including preaxial and postaxial deficiencies; OR = 1.03; 95% CI = 0.17-4.30). Adjustment for potential confounding factors did not change these findings. We found a trend of decreasing risk for all transverse limb deficiencies with earlier vitamin use. These data indicate that mothers' periconceptional multivitamin use may reduce the risk for some types of limb deficiency among their offspring. In addition, because we did not find the protective effect for all types of limb deficiency, the data may also indicate causal heterogeneity of limb deficiencies.

A systematic approach to the assessment of user satisfaction with health care systems: constructs, models and instruments

In this paper an overview is given about research in the field of user satisfaction with health care systems and a new systematic model is set up. The model distinguishes between system-independent and system-dependent factors, the latter characterised by satisfaction with the content, the interface and the organisation. Evaluated instruments for assessing user satisfaction are classified according to the model and recommendation for an appropriate use are given.

[Tumor necrosis factor in pregnancies associated with pregnancy induced hypertension]

OBJECTIVE

To determine TNF concentrations in maternal plasma, amniotic fluid and umbilical blood of normal term pregnant women and women with pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH).

METHODS

Sixteen normal term-pregnant women as control and fourty-six women with PIH were enrolled for study. Maternal plasma including antepartum and 72 hours after labor, amniotic fluid and umbilical blood TNF concentrations were measured with a sensitive radioimmunoassay.

RESULTS

Similar levels of TNF were found in the amniotic fluid and umbilical blood between the two groups. Before labor, maternal plasma TNF level in PIH was generally higher than that in the control, especially a higher level in the moderate and severe PIH (P < 0.05). However, the mean levels of plasma TNF were not significantly different between the two groups after labor. TNF levels in amniotic fluid were significantly lower than those in maternal plasma and umbilical blood. Amniotic fluid and umbilical blood TNF levels in PIH with intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) were significantly higher than those in PIH without IUGR (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated an increase of TNF level in maternal plasma with PIH. The results may show an abnormal maternal immune reaction to the fetus. An abnormal higher TNF level may have an effect on the pathogenesis of PIH.

Prognostic modelling in peritonitis. Peritonitis Study Group of the Surgical Infection Society Europe

OBJECTIVE

To develop and to evaluate a new score to aid management in peritonitis.

DESIGN

Prospective, multicentre study.

SETTING

18 departments of surgery in Germany. Austria, and Switzerland.

SUBJECTS

355 patients with peritonitis confirmed at laparotomy.

INTERVENTIONS

Computation of four different prognostic systems: APACHE II; APACHE II and successful operation; APACHE II, successful operation and Goris score on the first postoperative day: and multivariate analysis. Predictions were evaluated according to the following criteria: specificity with a fixed sensitivity at 80%, receiver operating characteristic (ROC-) curve, and predictive value.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

The ability to predict hospital death and infective complications.

RESULTS

Multivariate analysis was superior to APACHE II: APACHE II and successful operation: and APACHE II, successful operation, and Goris score. From the analysis a new prognostic model was derived from which it was possible to identify patients early in the postoperative period who are at high risk of developing further complications (prognostic peritonitis model: PPM).

CONCLUSIONS

None of the existing scores was of particular use for therapeutic decision making in peritonitis. The new prognostic model should be the focus of further trials in the management of peritonitis.

Delayed decrease of calbindin immunoreactivity in the granule cell-mossy fibers after kainic acid-induced seizures

Kainic acid (KA) administration induces an abnormal excitation and spontaneous recurrent seizures. Alterations of granule cell properties may be potential mechanisms. In this study, dynamic alterations of calbindin, a calcium binding protein particularly abundant in the granule cells, have been investigated immunocytochemically in the rat hippocampus after the KA-induced seizures. The calbindin immunoreactivity decreased slightly in the CA1/CA2 fields already after 1 and 3 days, and was lost partly or completely in the pyramidal layer after 10 days. From day 21, the calbindin immunoreactivity decreased in dendrites and soma of the granule cells and mossy fibers. The alterations remained at least to day 90, while no evident neuronal loss occurred in the granule cells. This may reflect a disturbance of calcium homostasis in the granule cells after seizures. The delayed decrease of calbindin has a time course similar to the occurrence of spontaneous recurrent seizures, suggesting a possible correlation between the two events.

A needle-type sensor for monitoring glucose in whole blood

A new surface-process technology employing electrochemical fixation of a bioactive substance (enzyme and heparin) to a sensor electrode was developed to provide biocompatability and functionality. The fabrication process includes electroentrapment of glucose oxidase and heparin on a platinum electrode by using 1,3-phenylenediamine codeposition. Electrochemically grown 1,3-phenylenediamine was also used as the outer coating of the sensor's enzyme electrode in order to extend the linear range. The sensor shows a sensitivity of 3 nA/mM and a linear range from 40 to 400 mg/dL at 37 degrees C when tested in whole blood. This sensor is characterized by a fast response. The sensor shows a minimum change in its performance when stored inactive in buffer for 12 weeks. When tested at physiologic glucose levels, the sensor demonstrates satisfactory low interference from common interfering substances. This technology seems promising for the preparation of implantable intravascular biosensors.

Analysis of the alpha2C-adrenergic receptor gene promoter and its cell-type-specific activity

As an initial approach to define the regulatory elements and transcriptional factors that account for cell-restricted expression of the alpha2c-adrenergic receptor (AR) gene, we isolated and characterized the receptor gene and identified regions of the gene conferring cell-specific expression. A 4300-nucleotide (nt) fragment of the 5'-flanking region of the rat alpha2c-AR gene was isolated from a genomic library. The genomic sequence contained the uninterrupted sequence of the 5'-untranslated region of a previously isolated alpha2c-AR cDNA clone indicating the lack of introns in the 5' gene segment. RNase protection assays and/or RNA blot analysis indicated the expression of alpha2c-AR mRNA in rat brain but not in kidney or liver, which is consistent with the major expression of this gene in neuronal tissue. The 5' gene segment was used to identify sites of transcriptional initiation and promoter activity by RNase protection assays and transient transfection of reporter gene constructs. With the use of RNA probes progressively upstream of the translational start site, RNase protection assays with rat brain total RNA indicated multiple sites of transcriptional initiation within a approximately 70-nt span (-660 to -730 nt 5' to the translational start codon). The zone of transcriptional initiation was part of a larger GC-rich area of the 5' gene segment that is a characteristic of genes initiating transcripts at multiple sites. The promoter activity of this zone of transcriptional initiation and the influence of gene segments 5' to this area were addressed using chloramphenicol acetyl transferase reporter gene constructs. Transient transfection of reporter gene constructs indicated that a 96-nt gene fragment (-699/-603 relative to the translational start codon) was sufficient to direct transcription in the neuroblastoma X glioma hybrid cell line NG108-15, a cell line expressing the endogenous alpha2c-AR. Promoter activity was not observed in constructs lacking the zone of transcriptional initiation. The promoter segment was inactive when introduced into the rat glioma cell line C6B4, the rat submandibular cell line RSMT-A5, and the rat pancreatic beta cell line RIN-5AH, all of which do not express the endogenous alpha2c-AR gene. Upon incubation with nuclear extracts, a 129-nt fragment encompassing the promoter exhibited a gel mobility shift pattern that was specific for cells expressing the receptor protein and involved a nuclear protein that recognized a Sp1 oligonucleotide. These data indicate that a 96-nt gene promoter segment of the alpha2c-AR gene functions in a cell-type-specific manner.

Calcium-antagonist effects of norbormide on isolated perfused heart and cardiac myocytes of guinea-pig: a comparison with verapamil

1. Cardiac effects on norbormide and verapamil were compared in single ventricular myocytes, right atria, and Langendorff perfused hearts isolated from guinea-pigs. 2. In ventricular myocytes, norbormide 50 microM inhibited the peak calcium current (ICa) by 49.6 +/- 3.9% without altering the shape of the current-voltage relationship; verapamil 1 microM inhibited ICa by 83.2 +/- 3.3%. Neither norbormide nor verapamil affected ICa at the first beat after a 3 min quiescence period; during repeated depolarizations, both drugs cumulatively blocked ICa (use-dependence), with time constants of 23.0 +/- 7.0 s for norbormide and 91.3 +/- 8.4 s for verapamil. 3. In constant-flow perfused hearts electrically driven at 2.5 Hz or 3.3 Hz, both norbormide and verapamil concentration-dependently decreased ventricular contractility (dP/dtmax), atrio-ventricular (AV) conduction velocity and coronary pressure. Intraventricular conduction velocity was slightly decreased by norbormide but not by verapamil. At an equivalent change in AV conduction, norbormide depressed heart contractility less than verapamil. The effects of norbormide on AV conduction, intraventricular conduction, and contractility were frequency-dependent. Furthermore, the curves correlating the mechanical and electrical effects of norbormide at the two frequencies used were apparently coincident, while those of verapamil were clearly separated. 4. In spontaneously beating right atria, norbormide and verapamil decreased the frequency of sinus node (SA) in a concentration-dependent way. At an equivalent effect on the AV conduction, norbormide exerted a greater effect on sinus frequency than verapamil. 5. These results indicate that in guinea-pig heart norbormide has the pharmacological profile of a Ca-antagonist with strong electrophysiological properties. In comparison with verapamil, norbormide is more selective on SA and AV node tissues and exerts a weaker negative inotropic effect on ventricles. In principle, this pattern of effects may be an advantage in treating supraventricular tachyarrhythmias in patients with heart failure. The effect of norbormide on intraventricular conduction may represent an additional antiarrhythmic mechanism.

Presence of S-100 beta in cholinergic neurones of the rat hindbrain

The double staining of S-100 beta and choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) revealed that S-100 beta immunoreactivity was localized in most, but not in all, cholinergic neurones in the somatomotor nuclei of the cranial nerves and in the ambiguus nucleus. S-100 beta was present in almost all cholinergic neurones in the brain stem reticular, red, vestibular (excluding medial), mesencephalic trigeminal and cerebellar nuclei. However, S-100 beta immunoreactivity was lacking in cholinergic neurones in the parabrachial complex, the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagal nerve and most sensory nuclei. No S-100 beta-positive neurones lacked ChAT immunoreactivity. Taken together with the fact that the vulnerability of motoneurones to axotomy is markedly reduced in the first 3 postnatal weeks, during which period neuronal S-100 beta appears and increases, a possible effect of S-100 beta on the survival of cholinergic motoneurones may be suggested.

Comparison of binding and block produced by alternatively spliced Kvbeta1 subunits

Voltage-gated K+ (Kv) channels consist of alpha subunits complexed with cytoplasmic Kvbeta subunits. Kvbeta1 subunits enhance the inactivation of currents expressed by the Kv1 alpha subunit subfamily. Binding has been demonstrated between the C terminus of Kvbeta1.1 and a conserved segment of the N terminus of Kv1.4, Kv1.5, and Shaker alpha subunits. Here we have examined the interaction and functional properties of two alternatively spliced human Kvbeta subunits, 1.2 and 1.3, with Kvalpha subunits 1.1, 1.2, 1.4, and 1.5. In the yeast two-hybrid assay, we found that both Kvbeta subunits interact specifically through their conserved C-terminal domains with the N termini of each Kvalpha subunit. In functional experiments, we found differences in modulation of Kv1alpha subunit currents that we attribute to the unique N-terminal domains of the two Kvbeta subunits. Both Kvbeta subunits act as open channel blockers at physiological membrane potentials, but hKvbeta1.2 is a more potent blocker than hKvbeta1.3 of Kv1.1, Kv1.2, Kv1.4, and Kv1. 5. Moreover, hKvbeta1.2 is sensitive to redox conditions, whereas hKvbeta1.3 is not. We suggest that different Kvbeta subunits extend the range over which distinct Kv1alpha subunits are modulated and may provide a variable mechanism for adjusting K+ currents in response to alterations in cellular conditions.

[Regional brain calcium change in rabbit cerebral ischemia]

OBJECTIVE

To study whether regional brain calcium change would be an important factor for ischemic neuranal damage and whether calcium antagonist would exert protective effects on cerebral ischemia.

METHODS

OCPC autoanalyzer method, was used to measure the regional brain calcium and observe the influence of flunarizine (FNZ) 48 hours after the rabbit middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO).

RESULTS

48 hours after MCAO, the calcium in the ischemic middle cerebral artery territory was 10.8 times as much as that in the pseudo-occluded controls, and FNZ could significantly decrease the ischemic brain calcium (P < 0.05) and the ischemic cerebral edema (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Caoverload was animportant factor leading to ischemic neuronal death, and FNZ has protective effects on cerebral ischemia.

[Pharmacological comparative study on baiqian and baiwei]

The decoction of Cynanchum glaucescens and the ethanol extract of C. stauntonii show significant antitussive and expectorant actions. The decoctions of C. stauntonii or C. glaucescens have antiasthmatic and anti-inflammatory effects. The decoction of C. atratum has some expectorant effect but no antitussive or antiasthmatic actions. On the other hand, the decoction of C. versicolor cannot relieve cough nor sputum. The results indicate that both C. atratum and C. versicolor cannot be used as C. glaucescens or C. stauntonii.

In vitro and in vivo studies of three radiolabelled somatostatin analogues: 123I-octreotide (OCT), 123I-Tyr-3-OCT and 111In-DTPA-D-Phe-1-OCT

Scintigraphy with long-acting somatostatin (SST) analogues may be useful for the localization of tumours expressing receptors (R) for SST. In this study we have analysed the in vitro and in vivo binding properties of three SST analogues, 123I-octreotide (OCT), 123I-Tyr-3-OCT and 111In-DTPA-d-Phe-1-OCT. In vitro binding studies performed with a variety of primary tumours (n=48) as well as with several tumour cell lines (A431, HT29, PANC1, COLO320, HMC1, KU812) indicated significant in vitro binding of these three radiolabelled SST analogues to two subpopulations of SSTR, high (Kd 0.2-2.0 nM) and low (Kd 5-15 nM) affinity ones. The number of SSTR on tumour cells was at least a 1000-fold higher as compared with normal peripheral blood cells. Comparative scintigraphic studies using 123I-OCT and/or 123I-Tyr-3-OCT and/or 111In-DTPA-d-Phe-1-OCT were performed in 21 patients with histologically verified intestinal carcinoid tumours. Corresponding scintigraphic results were obtained in 18 of 21 patients investigated with two different SSTR ligands, either 123I-OCT/123I-Tyr-3-OCT (four of five), 123I-OCT/111In-DTPA-d-Phe-1-OCT (eight of nine), or 123I-Tyr-3-OCT/111In-DTPA-d-Phe-1-OCT (six of seven). We conclude that various tumours express high amounts of SSTR which are recognized by three radiolabelled SST analogues: 123I-OCT, 123I-Tyr-3-OCT and 111In-DTPA-d-Phe-1-OCT. Differences between these SST analogues in their in vitro binding and/or in vivo scanning properties are observed in a minority of patients. Thus, the labelling of OCT with iodine may be an alternative approach for those nuclear medicine departments for which 111In-DTPA-d-Phe-1-OCT is not easily available, or is too expensive.

IL-4 is protective against development of toxoplasmic encephalitis

IFN-gamma is critical for prevention of development of toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE). Since IL-4 down-regulates production of IFN-gamma, we examined its role in the pathogenesis of TE in IL-4-targeted mutant (IL-4-/-) mice. IL-4-/- mice all died from 6 to 20 wk after peroral infection with cysts of the ME49 strain of Toxoplasma gondii; control mice survived. At 4 and 8 wk after infection, significantly greater numbers of T. gondii cysts and foci of acute inflammation, and greater amounts of tachyzoite-specific mRNA (by reverse-transcriptase PCR) were in brains of IL-4-/- mice than controls. Toxoplasma IgG2b and IgG3 Ab levels were slightly but significantly higher in sera of IL-4-/- than control mice, whereas IgM and IgG2a levels did not differ between these mice. Toxoplasma IgG1 and IgE Abs were not detected in sera of either strain. Amounts of IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10 mRNA detected by reverse-transcriptase PCR did not differ between brains of infected IL-4-/- and controls, although brains of the former mice had greater numbers of inflammatory mononuclear cell infiltrates. IL-4 mRNA was detected only in infected control mice. Spleen cells of control mice at 8 wk after infection produced significantly greater amounts of IFN-gamma following stimulation in vitro with soluble T. gondii Ags than did those from IL-4-/- mice. These results indicate that IL-4 is protective against development of TE by preventing formation of T. gondii cysts and proliferation of tachyzoites in the brain. The impaired ability of IL-4-/- mice in the late stage of T. gondii infection to produce IFN-gamma most likely contributes to their susceptibility for development of severe TE.

IL-4 is protective against development of toxoplasmic encephalitis

IFN-gamma is critical for prevention of development of toxoplasmic encephalitis (TE). Since IL-4 down-regulates production of IFN-gamma, we examined its role in the pathogenesis of TE in IL-4-targeted mutant (IL-4-/-) mice. IL-4-/- mice all died from 6 to 20 wk after peroral infection with cysts of the ME49 strain of Toxoplasma gondii; control mice survived. At 4 and 8 wk after infection, significantly greater numbers of T. gondii cysts and foci of acute inflammation, and greater amounts of tachyzoite-specific mRNA (by reverse-transcriptase PCR) were in brains of IL-4-/- mice than controls. Toxoplasma IgG2b and IgG3 Ab levels were slightly but significantly higher in sera of IL-4-/- than control mice, whereas IgM and IgG2a levels did not differ between these mice. Toxoplasma IgG1 and IgE Abs were not detected in sera of either strain. Amounts of IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-10 mRNA detected by reverse-transcriptase PCR did not differ between brains of infected IL-4-/- and controls, although brains of the former mice had greater numbers of inflammatory mononuclear cell infiltrates. IL-4 mRNA was detected only in infected control mice. Spleen cells of control mice at 8 wk after infection produced significantly greater amounts of IFN-gamma following stimulation in vitro with soluble T. gondii Ags than did those from IL-4-/- mice. These results indicate that IL-4 is protective against development of TE by preventing formation of T. gondii cysts and proliferation of tachyzoites in the brain. The impaired ability of IL-4-/- mice in the late stage of T. gondii infection to produce IFN-gamma most likely contributes to their susceptibility for development of severe TE.

Eliprodil prevents expression of the 70 kDa heat shock protein in MK801-injured neurones

The present study examined whether eliprodil (SL 82.0715), an N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist acting on the polyamine sites induced expression of the 70 kDa heat shock protein (HSP70) in the rat brain. Whereas the NMDA channel blocker MK801 consistently induced HSP70 in posterior cingulate and retrosplenial cortices, eliprodil had no such effects even at the highest dose (50 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), supporting the idea that injury to the cerebrocortical neurones by NMDA receptor antagonists is probably related to specific sites of the receptor. Furthermore, eliprodil, given immediately after injection of MK801, blocked the effects of MK801 on HSP70. The result is discussed in terms of high affinity of eliprodil for the sigma receptor.

Translocation of phospholipase C-gamma 2 induced by in vitro activation of protein tyrosine kinase activity in mast cell lysates

Aggregation of the high-affinity receptor for IgE (Fc eta RI) on the surface of intact or permeabilized rodent mast cells results in tyrosine phosphorylation of phospholipase C-gamma 1 (PLC gamma 1) and PLC gamma 2, and translocation of both isozymes to the particulate fraction. We report here that activation of resident tyrosine kinases by the addition of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), orthovanadate, and Mg2+ to rat basophilic leukemia cell (RBL) lysates induces an association of PLC gamma 2 with the Triton-insoluble particulate fraction, with a parallel increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of cellular proteins. Both PLC gamma 2 translocation and tyrosine phosphorylation are supported by millimolar Mg2+ or Mn2+ but not by Ca2+. Both tyrosine phosphorylation and PLC gamma 2 translocation are inhibited by genistein. These data suggest that in vitro activation of tyrosine kinase activity in broken cell preparations induces the formation of association between PLC gamma 2 and ligands with the Triton-insoluble fraction.

A novel murine model for the assessment of human CD2-related reagents in vivo

CD2 is a T cell surface glycoprotein that mediates both cell-cell adhesion and transmembrane signal transduction. To construct a model for the in vivo evaluation of human (h)CD2 function and hCD2-related reagents, hCD2 transgenic mice and murine (m)CD2 knockout mice were crossed, and the F2 generation selected for mCD2-hCD2+ animals by fluorescent flow cytometry. The mCD2-hCD2+ mice are healthy and have a normal distribution of mCD3, mCD4, and mCD8 in thymus, spleen, and lymph node. Therefore expression of the hCD2 transgene does not appear to disrupt normal T cell development. The functionality of hCD2 was demonstrated by T lymphocyte proliferation upon stimulation by combined anti-CD2 plus anti-CD2R (anti-T11(2) plus anti-T11(3)) mAbs. Anti-T11(2) plus anti-T11(3) anti-human CD2 mAbs also induced proliferation of mCD2+hCD2+ F1 lymphocytes, but not mCD2+hCD2- wild-type murine lymphocytes. Either an anti-murine or the human CD2 specific (anti-T11(1)) mAbs inhibited proliferation in alloantigen, PHA, or anti-CD3 mAb stimulated cultures and inhibited only cells bearing the appropriate cognate CD2. In vivo studies of immune function yielded results consistent with these in vitro assays. Thus, anti-T11(1) mAb suppressed contact sensitivity in vivo in the transgenic/knockout mice. mCD2-hCD2+ mice treated with anti-T11(1) or LFA-3 fusion proteins also showed significant prolongation of cardiac allograft survival. This prolongation was associated both with depletion and down-modulation of CD2 on remaining T cells. These data suggest that the transgenic/knockout mice provide a useful in vivo model for the assessment of hCD2-related reagents and CD2 function, free from any potential interactions with mCD2 and mCD2 ligands.

[Establishment of human ovarian cancer cisplatin resistant cell line COC1/DDP and its mechanism of resistance]

OBJECTIVE

To establish cisplatin (DDP)-resistant subline of human ovarian cancer and investigate the mechanism responsible for resistance to DDP.

METHODS

A DDP-resistant human ovarian adenocarcinoma cell subline (COC1/DDP) was developed by contineous stepwise selection in increasing concentration of DDP from the parent cell line COC1 in vitro. The multiple changes of biological properties in COC1/DDP cell line were determined.

RESULTS

COC1/DDP cells were of 6.5-fold resistance to DDP and displayed significant cross-resistant with carplatin and mitomycin C, but still remained sensitive to 5-fluorouracil and adriamycin. As compared to the parent cells, in COC1/DDP cells: the doubling time was reduced by 12.9%. Cellular content of DDP was diminished by more one half and the DNA-interstrand cross-links (ISC) was lower than that of the sensitive cells. Evidence of P-glycoprotein overexpression was not shown in COC1 and COC1/DDP cell lines by means of immunohistochemical method.

CONCLUSIONS

The primary factor causing COC1/DDP resistance to DDP is the reduction of intracellular platinum accumulation and DNA ISC formation. The resistance is not considered to be associated with the multidrug resistant and P-glycoprotein.

A novel murine model for the assessment of human CD2-related reagents in vivo

CD2 is a T cell surface glycoprotein that mediates both cell-cell adhesion and transmembrane signal transduction. To construct a model for the in vivo evaluation of human (h)CD2 function and hCD2-related reagents, hCD2 transgenic mice and murine (m)CD2 knockout mice were crossed, and the F2 generation selected for mCD2-hCD2+ animals by fluorescent flow cytometry. The mCD2-hCD2+ mice are healthy and have a normal distribution of mCD3, mCD4, and mCD8 in thymus, spleen, and lymph node. Therefore expression of the hCD2 transgene does not appear to disrupt normal T cell development. The functionality of hCD2 was demonstrated by T lymphocyte proliferation upon stimulation by combined anti-CD2 plus anti-CD2R (anti-T11(2) plus anti-T11(3)) mAbs. Anti-T11(2) plus anti-T11(3) anti-human CD2 mAbs also induced proliferation of mCD2+hCD2+ F1 lymphocytes, but not mCD2+hCD2- wild-type murine lymphocytes. Either an anti-murine or the human CD2 specific (anti-T11(1)) mAbs inhibited proliferation in alloantigen, PHA, or anti-CD3 mAb stimulated cultures and inhibited only cells bearing the appropriate cognate CD2. In vivo studies of immune function yielded results consistent with these in vitro assays. Thus, anti-T11(1) mAb suppressed contact sensitivity in vivo in the transgenic/knockout mice. mCD2-hCD2+ mice treated with anti-T11(1) or LFA-3 fusion proteins also showed significant prolongation of cardiac allograft survival. This prolongation was associated both with depletion and down-modulation of CD2 on remaining T cells. These data suggest that the transgenic/knockout mice provide a useful in vivo model for the assessment of hCD2-related reagents and CD2 function, free from any potential interactions with mCD2 and mCD2 ligands.

Plasticity of granule cell-mossy fiber system following kainic acid induced seizures: an immunocytochemical study on neurofilament proteins

Abnormal reestablishment of mossy fibers with the CA3 pyramidal cells and granule cells is an important aspect of postlesional plasticity in epilepsy. However, basis for the structural reorganisation and functional consequences of the event remain uncertain. Therefore we have investigated alterations of neurofilaments, major cytoskeletal components of neurons, in the rat hippocampus after the kainic acid (KA) administration, an experimental model for the temporal lobe epilepsy. The immunoreactivity for phosphorylated heavy weight neurofilament (pNFH) and non-phosphorylated heavy weight neurofilament (npNFH), in particular the pNFH, decreased in the CA1 field and inner molecular layer of the dentate gyrus during 3 and 10 days after the KA administration. After 10 days, npNFH immunoreactivity appeared in the mossy fibers, in which it is normally absent, meanwhile the pNFH staining in the mossy fibers did not decrease. From day 21, the immunoreactivity of pNFH and npNFH was normal or above normal in the CA1 stratum lacunosum-moleculare, mossy fibers, hilus and inner molecular layer of the dentate gyrus. These alterations in the later phase remained at least to day 90. The reappearance and increase of the neurofilament immunoreactivity in the inner molecular layer of the dentate gyrus probably reflects a collateral extension of the granule cell axons known as mossy fiber sprouting. The results suggest that neurofilament changes in the granule cell-mossy fiber system may be a morphological basis for the structural reconstruction of granule cell axons, and neurofilaments are involved in the plasticity after the KA induced seizures.

[Changes of superoxide dismutase and lipid peroxide in lung tissue of rats after intratracheal injection of crocidolite and benzo(a) pyrene]

Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups: control group, Cro group, B(a) p group and Cro plus B(a) p group. Samples of lung tissue were collected 90, 180, 270, 360 and 540 days after the third time of intratracheal. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, the level of lipid peroxide (LPO) and the ratio of SOD/LPO were observed. The results indicated that there was a synergistic action of Cro. and B(a) p.