Effect of beta-agonists on production of cytokines by activated T cells obtained from asthmatic patients and normal subjects

Intracellular levels of cAMP were found to regulate T cell activity. We examined whether beta2-agonists altered cytokine production and cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) accumulation in concanavalin A (ConA)-activated peripheral T cells from asthmatic patients. Procaterol and isoproterenol weakly decreased the ConA-elicited interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-5 secretion; however, the inhibitory effect of procaterol on the ConA-induced IL-2 secretion was inferior to that of isoproterenol in normal controls and was little in asthmatics. The intracellular accumulation of cAMP by procaterol was not altered compared with that by isoproterenol. Results suggest that there is a qualitative difference between procaterol- and isoproterenol-induced cAMP accumulation in T cells.

A major role for the rho-associated coiled coil forming protein kinase in G-protein-mediated Ca2+ sensitization through inhibition of myosin phosphatase in rabbit trachea

1 G protein-mediated Ca2+ sensitization of airway smooth muscle contraction was investigated with respect to the relative importance of Rho-associated coiled coil forming protein kinase (ROCK) and protein kinase C (PKC). We examined the effects of Y-27632, a ROCK inhibitor, and GF 109203X, a PKC inhibitor, on guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTPgammaS)-induced contraction in alpha-toxin- or beta-escin-permeabilized rabbit trachea. 2 Although pre-treatment with Y-27632 dose-dependently inhibited GTPgammaS (10 microM)-induced Ca2+ sensitization of alpha-toxin-permeabilized trachea, a Y-27632-insensitive component (approximately 16% of the maximum contraction) was retained during the early phase of the GTPgammaS response in the presence of Y-27632 (100 microM). 3 GF 109203X (5 microM) abolished 1 microM 4beta-phorbol 12, 13-dibutyrate (PDBu)-induced, but only partially inhibited the GTPgammaS-induced Ca2+ sensitization. A combination of Y-27632 (100 microM) and GF 109203X (5 microM) totally abolished the GTPgammaS response. 4 GTPgammaS caused only a small contraction in the absence of Ca2+. Wortmannin (30 microM), a myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) inhibitor, completely inhibited Ca2+-induced contraction. ATP-triggered contraction of the strip which had been treated with calyculin A (1 microM), a phosphatase inhibitor, in rigor solutions was markedly slowed by worthmannin (30 microM), but not by Y-27632 (100 microM), in the presence of GTPgammaS and Ca2+. 5 GTPgammaS, but not PDBu, contracted the beta-escin-permeabilized trachea in the absence of Ca2+, but the presence of Ca2+-independent MLCK. 6 We conclude that ROCK plays a primary role in G-protein-mediated Ca2+ sensitization, which requires MLCK activity, with minor contribution of PKC to the early phase of contraction, and PDBu utilizes conventional PKC(s) in airway smooth muscle.

Changes in serum leptin concentration during behavioral therapy in obese children

To determine the pathophysiological implications of serum leptin level in obesity, we monitored the changes in serum leptin level during outpatient treatment with life style modification in children. Fifty-five obese Japanese children (34 boys and 21 girls; mean age, 9.64 years) were studied. The control children consisted of 42 nonobese subjects (27 boys and 15 girls). The serum leptin concentration was 4.35 +/- 0.46 ng/ml (mean +/- SEM) in the control girls and 2.93 +/- 0.21 ng/ml in the control boys. The serum leptin concentrations in the obese boys and girls were higher than those in their lean counterparts. The concentration in the obese boys (16.28 +/- 1.41 ng/ml) was similar to that in the obese girls (20.33 +/- 2.0 ng/ml). The logarithmic value of serum leptin concentration at the first blood sampling in obese children was correlated with percent overweight and percent body fat. In 36 obese children (24 boys and 12 girls) whose serum leptin concentrations were monitored serially during treatment of obesity, the percent overweight was significantly decreased after the initial sampling. In each individual, the changes in leptin concentration were roughly parallel to those in percent overweight. The ratio of the leptin concentration at the second blood sampling divided by the one at the first sampling in each individual was closely correlated with the respective delta percent overweight. These results suggest that the preceding course of obesity determines the serum leptin level of obese children on longitudinal basis, and that the leptin level reflects the degree of obesity on cross-sectional basis.

Effects of isoproterenol on IL-2 and cAMP production in peripheral T cells from asthmatic and non-asthmatic subjects sensitive to Candida

Immunity to Candida albicans (Candida) is characterized by a Th-1 type pattern of reactivity. Candida is rarely a cause antigen for bronchial asthma. Beta agonists have been found to inhibit secretion of IL-2 from T cells through intracellular cAMP elevation. We examined effects of isoproterenol (ISO) on Candida-stimulated T cells. Peripheral T cells obtained from six Candida-sensitive asthmatics, six Candida-sensitive non-asthmatic subjects, and six normal donors by Ficoll-Hypaque gradient centrifugation and nylon-wool column chromatography were incubated with Candida antigen or concanavalin A (Con A) in the absence or presence of ISO. Secretion of IL-2 and intracellular accumulation of cAMP were assayed by ELISA. Con A induced secretion of IL-2 in each of the three groups. Candida antigen induced IL-2 secretion in the normal and the non-asthmatic subjects, but not in the asthmatics. ISO, which reduced Con A-induced secretion of IL-2 in a dose-dependent manner, had no effect on Candida-induced secretion of IL-2. Although ISO increased the intracellular concentration of cAMP in untreated and Con A-treated T cells from all donors, cells from the normal and the non-asthmatic subjects, but not from the asthmatics, that were co-incubated with ISO and Candida had lower levels of cAMP than those treated with ISO alone. It is suggested that Candida antigen induces secretion of IL-2 and reduces ISO-inducible accumulation of cAMP in Candida-responsive IL-2 secreting cells, which may make Candida-induced secretion of IL-2 insensitive to ISO.

Effect of peroxisome proliferator on extracellular glutathione peroxidase in rat

Glutathione peroxidase (GPX) activity measured using tert-butyl hydroperoxide as a substrate detects solely cellular/classical GPX (cGPX) in rat liver and kidney, and extracellular/plasma glutathione peroxidase (EC-GPX) in rat serum. To investigate the effect of peroxisome proliferator on EC-GPX, we measured activities of GPX and catalase in rat liver, kidney and serum, and then we performed immunoblot and Northern blot analyses in the kidney. Rats were fed on a diet containing either 2% (w/w) di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) or 0.25% (w/w) clofibrate for two or three weeks, respectively. Catalase activity was increased 1.4-fold (p < 0.001) in the treated liver, but not in the kidney. GPX activity was decreased to 59.2% (DEHP) and 70.4% (clofibrate) of the control (p < 0.001) in the serum but was unaltered in the liver and kidney. The immunoreactivity for EC-GPX was also significantly decreased in the DEHP-treated kidney compared with the control. The mRNA levels of EC-GPX and cGPX were unaltered. The immunostaining for 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal, a maker of lipid peroxide, was more intense in the treated kidney compared with the control. These results suggest that EC-GPX is post-transcriptionally decreased by peroxisome proliferator through the oxidative stress in the renal tubules. This may be a new deleterious effect of an endocrine disruptor DEHP.

Induction of the manganese superoxide dismutase gene by sphingomyelinase and ceramide

The present study reports the effect of ceramide generated by hydrolysis of membrane sphingomyelin with bacterial sphingomyelinase (SMase) and of cell-permeable ceramide analogues on the expression of manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD). Incubation of the rat primary astrocytes with SMase led to a time- and dose-dependent increase in MnSOD activity. The increase in MnSOD activity was accompanied by an increase in MnSOD protein and mRNA. A similar effect on the expression of MnSOD was observed with the addition of cell-permeable ceramide analogues (C2 and C6). On the other hand, C2-dihydroceramide (N-acetylsphinganine), which lacks the functional critical double bond, was ineffective in inducing the expression of MnSOD. Nuclear run-on analysis showed that SMase and ceramide increased the rate of transcription of the MnSOD gene. Besides astrocytes, SMase was also found to induce the expression of MnSOD in rat mesangial cells, C6 glial cells, PC12 cells, and human skin fibroblasts. Markedly higher expression of mRNA, protein, and activity of MnSOD in skin fibroblasts from patients with Farber disease, a human disorder with pathognomonic accumulation of ceramide due to a deficiency of ceramidase, than in normal skin fibroblasts indicate that ceramide may act as a physiological inducer of MnSOD gene expression. However, stimulation of ceramide-mediated DNA fragmentation by antisense knockdown of MnSOD suggests that induction of MnSOD by ceramide is a protective response of the cell.

[Lung cancer with chylothorax successfully treated by chemical pleurodesis with OK-432]

A 66-year-old man was admitted to our hospital because of bloody sputum. Chest computed tomographic scans disclosed a right hilar tumor. A tumor in the right upper-lobe bronchus was detected by fiberoptic bronchoscopy. Microscopic examination disclosed moderately differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. The patient was treated with irradiation and combination chemotherapy. Thereafter, right chylous pleural effusion developed and continued to accumulate. Pleurodesis was induced by the intrathoracic injection of OK-432 at 15 KE per dose. Lung cancer with nontraumatic chylothorax is rare. In our patient, pleurodesis with OK-432 was an effective treatment.

Rhodopeptins, novel cyclic tetrapeptides with antifungal activities from Rhodococcus sp. II. Structure elucidation

The structures of rhodopeptins, novel antifungal peptides, were determined on the basis of physico-chemical analyses of the intact molecules and their acid hydrolysates. The structures of rhodopeptins C1, C2, C3, C4 and B5 were determined to be cyclo (-Gly-L-Orn-L-Val-3-amino-10-methyldodecanoyl-), cyclo (-Gly-L-Orn-L-Ile-3-amino-10-methyldodecanoyl-), cyclo (-Gly-L-Orn-L-Val-3-amino-12-methyltridecanoyl-), cyclo (-Gly-L-Orn-L-Val-3-amino- 12-methyltetradecanoyl-) and cyclo (-Gly-L-Lys-L-Val-3-amino-13-methyltetradecanoyl-), respectively. They are novel cyclic tetrapeptides containing a lipophilic beta-amino acid.

Rhodopeptins, novel cyclic tetrapeptides with antifungal activities from Rhodococcus sp. III. Synthetic study of rhodopeptins

Total syntheses of cyclo (-Gly-L-Lys-L-Val-(R)-3-aminododecanoyl-); LV9nA and its diastereomer cyclo (-Gly-L-Lys-L-Val-(S)-3-aminododecanoyl-); LV9nB, congeners of rhodopeptin B5 on beta-amino acid moiety, were achieved. The beta-amino acid moiety was prepared as a racemate by the thermal Michael addition of an amine to alpha,beta-unsaturated ester. The racemic beta-amino acids were converted to their L-Valylamide derivatives and the obtained diastereomers were separated. Coupling of both diastereomers, L-Val-beta-amino acids with Gly-L-Lys gave linear tetrapeptides, and tetrapeptides were cyclized by diphenylphosphoryl azide (DPPA) method between C-terminus of beta-amino acid and N-terminus of Gly to give cyclic tetrapeptides. The deprotected cyclic tetrapeptides, LV9nA and LV9nB, both exhibited almost the same antifungal activity as the naturally obtained rhodopeptins. Furthermore, comparison of the 1H NMR spectra of two congeners and rhodopeptin B5 suggested that the stereochemistry of beta-amino acid moiety in natural rhodopeptin B5 has (R)-configuration.

Rhodopeptins (Mer-N1033), novel cyclic tetrapeptides with antifungal activity from Rhodococcus sp. I. Taxonomy, fermentation, isolation, physico-chemical properties and biological activities

Five novel cyclic tetrapeptides, named rhodopeptin C1, C2, C3, C4 and B5, were isolated from a strain named Rhodococcus sp. Mer-N1033. They are a novel type of cyclic tetrapeptide composed of a beta-amino acid and three usual alpha-amino acids. Rhodopeptins show high in vitro antifungal activity against Candida albicans and Cryptococcus neoformans, whereas they show no activity against bacteria.

A possible mechanism of primary ciliary dyskinesia: a case of a segmental defect in ciliary microtubules

We report here a 13-year-old woman with cough, sputum and fever. The patient had both chronic sinusitis and bronchitis. Chest X-ray and computed tomographic scan of the chest revealed mucous bronchial filling and bronchiectasia in bronchi of bilateral lower lobes, right middle lobe and left upper lobe. Aerosol inhalation scintigraphy with 99mTechnetium demonstrated delays of the discharged tracer. On the basis of these findings, primary ciliary dyskinesia was suggested. This was confirmed by the findings from nasal biopsy with transmission electron microscopy where all of the microtubules were segmentally defected near the basal body in the cilia. On the basis of these findings, we diagnosed the patient with primary ciliary dyskinesia which may be due, at least in part, to segmental defect of ciliary microtubules.

Manganese superoxide dismutase in rat liver peroxisomes: biochemical and immunochemical evidence

By using highly purified peroxisomes from rat liver, we have shown that peroxisomes contain manganese superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) activity and a 23 kDa protein immunoreactive with antibodies against purified mitochondrial MnSOD. Immunocytochemical studies have also revealed immunoreaction (immunogold) with MnSOD antibodies in mitochondria and peroxisomes. Studies of the intraperoxisomal localization of MnSOD have shown that in peroxisomes MnSOD is a component of the peroxisomal limiting membranes and dense core. Furthermore, the MnSOD level in peroxisomes was modulated by oxidative stress conditions such as ischemia-reperfusion or the treatment with ciprofibrate, a peroxisomal proliferator. These findings suggest that MnSOD in peroxisomes may play an important role in the dismutation of superoxide generated on the peroxisomal membrane for keeping the delicate balance of the redox state.

Regulation by interleukin-1beta of gene expression of bradykinin B1 receptor in MH-S murine alveolar macrophage cell line

The effects of recombinant murine interleukin (IL)-1beta on gene expression of murine bradykinin B1 receptor (BDKRB1) in MH-S murine alveolar macrophage cell line were evaluated. BDKRB1 mRNA expression in MH-S cells was increased by IL-1beta (1, 3, and 10 ng/ml) in a time-dependent manner, peaking at 3-4 h by 100-1000 fold. IL-1beta (5 ng/ml, 24h) also induced significant binding to [3H]-des-Arg10-kallidin with a dissociation constant (Kd) of 2.95 nM and a maximal binding density (Bmax) of 670 sites/cell. Des-Arg10-kallidin (10 microM), a BDKRB1 agonist, increased intracellular calcium ion ([Ca2+]i) in IL-1beta (5 ng/ml, 24 h)-exposed cells, an increase not observed in the cells not exposed to IL-1beta. A significant increase of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha secretion occurred in the IL-1beta (5 ng/ml, 24 h)-exposed cells following addition of des-Arg10-kallidin (the IL-1beta-exposed group: 57. 8 +/- 13.7 vs. the vehicle-exposed group: 16.7 +/- 4.3 pg/ml, p < 0.05 after a 100 nM des-Arg10-kallidin for 8 h), with an optimal effect at 3-100 nM. These data suggest that IL-1beta may up-regulate BDKRB1-mediated functions of alveolar macrophages via an induction of BDKRB1 gene expression.

Relaxation of contracted rabbit tracheal and human bronchial smooth muscle by Y-27632 through inhibition of Ca2+ sensitization

The mechanism of Ca2+ sensitization of contraction has not been elucidated in airway smooth muscle (SM). To determine the role of a small G protein, rhoA p21, and its target protein, rho-associated coiled coil-forming protein kinase (ROCK), in receptor-coupled Ca2+ sensitization of airway SM, we studied the effect of (+)-(R)-trans-4-(1-aminoethyl)-N-(4-pyridyl)cyclohexane carboxamide dihydrochloride, monohydrate (Y-27632), a ROCK inhibitor, on isometric contractions in rabbit tracheal and human bronchial SM. Y-27632 completely reversed 1 microM carbachol (CCh)-induced contraction of intact trachea with a concentration producing half-maximum inhibition of effect (IC50) of 1.29 +/- 0.2 microM (n = 5). Although 4beta-phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (1 microM)-induced Ca2+ sensitization was relatively resistant to Y-27632 in alpha-toxin-permeabilized trachea, CCh (100 microM) plus guanosine triphosphate (GTP) (3 microM)- and guanosine 5'-O-(3'-thiotriphosphate) (10 microM)-induced contractions were relaxed completely by Y-27632 with IC50 of 1.44 +/- 0.3 (n = 6) and 1.15 +/- 0.3 microM (n = 6). Endothelin-1 (1 microM) plus GTP (3 microM)- developed force was also reversed by Y-27632 with IC50 of 4. 10 +/- 1.1 microM (n = 6) in the alpha-toxin-permeabilized bronchus. Both the rabbit and human SM expressed rhoA p21, ROCK I, and its isoform ROCK II. Collectively, rho/ROCK-mediated Ca2+ sensitization plays a central role in the sustained phase of airway SM contraction, and selective inhibition of this pathway may become a new strategy to resolve airflow limitation in asthma.

[Hormone replacement therapy and breast cancer]

An evaluation of the role of estrogen and progesterone in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as a cause and promotor of breast cancer should begin with a study of the effect of these hormones on normal breast tissue. Cyclic alterations in the histologic changes of the breast in relation to menstruation have been confirmed in some papers. However, the histological influence on the breast of the use of exogenous estrogen and progestin in postmenopausal women remains very controversial. There has been little consistency with regard to the relative risk of HRT and breast cancer in many epidemiological studies. However, the Collaborative. Group on Hormonal Factors in Breast Cancer has brought together and reanalyzed about 90% of the international epidemiological evidence on the relation between risk of breast cancer and use of HRT. These analyses revealed that the risk of breast cancer in HRT users was significantly increased. However, whether HRT affects mortality from breast cancer is unknown.

[Diaphragmatic hernia with omental vessels delineated by computed tomography]

A 50-year-old man was admitted to our hospital for the evaluation of a blunted left costophrenic angle on chest roentgenograms. Chest non-enhanced computed tomographic (CT) scans demonstrated the omentum as a crescent-shaped, fat-dense, mass-like shadow on the left dorsal thoracic wall, contiguous with the abdominal cavity and floating. Omental vessels were recognized as funicular water densities running in the superior-to-inferior direction. Magnetic resonance imaging disclosed that the omental vessels ran continuously from the abdominal cavity into the thoracic cavity through a defect in the diaphragm. Diaphragmatic hernia was diagnosed, and corrective surgery performed. We reported this case because the CT-based delineation of omental vessels protruding into the thoracic cavity is rare.

Interferon-gamma rescues TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis mediated by up-regulation of TNFR2 on EoL-1 cells

Recent studies show that apoptosis is important for the resolution of chronic inflammation. Using a human myeloblastic leukemia cell line, EoL-1, we investigated the effect of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), which differentiates EoL-1 into monocyte/macrophage-like cells on Fas antigen (Fas)- and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF alpha)-induced apoptosis. Both TNF and anti-Fas monoclonal antibody (CH-11) induced apoptosis of EoL-1 cells. Pretreatment with IFN-gamma for 72 hours enhanced the CH-11-induced apoptosis with up-regulation of Fas. However, the treatment markedly inhibited the TNF-induced apoptosis. In flow cytometric analysis, EoL-1 expressed two types of tumor necrosis factor receptors (TNFR1 and TNFR2), and the expression of TNFR2 but not of TNFR1 was up-regulated significantly after the IFN-gamma treatment. The TNF-induced apoptosis was mimicked by a TNFR1 stimulating antibody (htr-9), and was reversed by a TNFR1 blocking antibody (H398). Although the TNFR1-mediated cytotoxic signal was not affected by IFN-gamma pretreatment, blocking TNFR2 by a specific antagonistic antibody (utr-1) canceled the inhibitory effect of IFN-gamma. In conclusion, TNF-induced apoptosis was mediated preferentially by TNFR1, and the anti-apoptotic effect of IFN-gamma was result from up-regulated TNFR2 in EoL-1 cell line. This cell line is a useful model to provide new insights into crosstalk among Fas/FasL-, TNF-, and IFN-gamma-mediated signaling.

Kimura's disease associated with bronchial asthma presenting eosinophilia and hyperimmunoglobulinemia E which were attenuated by suplatast tosilate (IPD-1151T)

A 29-year-old man developed atopic bronchial asthma in association with eosinophilia and hyperimmunoglobulinemia E (hyper-IgE). A biopsy specimen from an inguinal lymph node showed changes consistent with Kimura's disease. IPD-1151T (suplatast tosilate), an anti-allergy drug, attenuated eosinophilia and hyper-IgE as well as the serum level of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP). The drug, however, did not affect the positivity for specific IgE antibodies against common allergens or the bronchial hyperresponsiveness to acetylcholine. Interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-5, interferon (IFN)-gamma, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha were measured to be undetectable in serum before or during therapy. However, the expressions of mRNAs for IL-2, IL-4, IL-5, IFN-gamma, and TNF-alpha in peripheral blood T-lymphocytes and the expression of IL-5 mRNA in peripheral blood eosinophils were detected before and during therapy, which were unchanged by therapy with IPD-1151T. The present results suggest that different mechanisms other than the predominance of type 2 helper (T(H2))-like T-lymphocytes may underlie Kimura's disease and atopic bronchial asthma regarding the findings of eosinophilia and hyper-IgE, which could be modulated by IPD-1151T.

Identification of novel mutations in the dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase gene in a Japanese patient with 5-fluorouracil toxicity

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is used widely in the treatment of several common neoplasms. Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) is the initial and rate-limiting enzyme in the catabolism of 5-FU. Several recent studies have described a pharmacogenetic disorder in which cancer patients with decreased DPD activity develop life-threatening toxicity following exposure to 5-FU. We reported recently the first Japanese case of decreased DPD activity accompanied by severe 5-FU toxicity. The present study describes the results of molecular analysis of this patient and her family, in which three novel mutations (Arg21Gln, Val335Leu, and Glu386Ter) of the gene coding for DPD were identified. We also revealed that Arg21Gln and Glu386Ter are on the same allele and that Val335Leu is on the other allele, on the basis of analysis of the family genome. Expression analysis in Escherichia coli showed that Val335Leu and Glu386Ter led to mutant DPD protein with significant loss of enzymatic activity and no activity, respectively. The Arg21Gln mutation, however, resulted in no decrease in enzymatic activity compared with the wild type. The present data represent the first molecular genetic analysis of DPD deficiency accompanied by severe 5-FU toxicity in a Japanese patient.

Possible prediction of adverse reactions to fluorouracil by the measurement of urinary dihydrothymine and thymine

Dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) deficiency with a defect of the pyrimidine catabolic pathway has recently become the focus of considerable attention, due to the severe 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) toxicities occurring in DPD deficiency patients. Studies also suggest that 5-FU toxicities could occur in another pyrimidine metabolic disorder, dihydropyrimidinuria (DHPuria). This study shows that urinary dihydrothymine (DHT) and thymine (THY) are useful indexes for detection of DPD deficiency and DHPuria. We measured urinary DHT and THY in 276 Japanese adults to establish reference ranges. When males and females were compared, both DHT and THY levels were found to be significantly higher in females. The reference ranges (mean +/- SD with logarithmic values) for males were found to be 1.56-5.70 micromol/g of creatinine for DHT and 0.40-1.47 micromol/g of creatinine for THY. The reference ranges for females were found to be 1.89-8.33 micromol/g of creatinine for DHT and 0.58-2.30 micromol/g of creatinine for THY. In addition to this study we analyzed a DPD deficiency case and a DHPuria case. In the DPD deficiency case, the THY concentrations of all urine samples were out of the reference range. However, uracil levels in most of the samples were within the normal range. The DHPuria case excreted large amounts of DHT and dihydrouracil, both out of the normal range.

InsP3, but not novel Ca2+ releasers, contributes to agonist-initiated contraction in rabbit airway smooth muscle

1. To examine the contributions of the putative Ca2+ releasers, inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (InsP3), cyclic ADP ribose (cADPR), and nicotinate adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP), to carbachol (CCh)-induced contraction in airway smooth muscle, we measured force development of permeabilized rabbit tracheal smooth muscle, human bronchial smooth muscle and guinea-pig ileum longitudinal smooth muscle. 2. In the presence of 50 microM GTP, CCh and InsP3 contracted alpha-toxin-permeabilized tracheal smooth muscle dose dependently; the EC50 values for CCh and InsP3 were 1.84 microM and 363 microM, and the maximum responses (normalized to the 30 mM caffeine response) to 100 microM CCh and to 800 microM InsP3 were 206 +/- 13.4 % (mean +/- S.E.M.) and 84.4 +/- 5.3 %, respectively. 3. However, cADPR (10-300 microM), beta-NAD+ (2.5 mM), FK506 (30 microM) and NAADP (100 microM) neither contracted the strip by themselves nor affected the subsequent CCh (1 microM) response. alpha-Toxin-permeabilized bronchial smooth muscle and ileum smooth muscle also responded to caffeine, InsP3 and CCh but not to cADPR. 4. Both 100 microM 8-amino-cADPR, a selective cADPR antagonist, and 100 microM thionicotinamide-NADP, a selective NAADP antagonist, failed to inhibit the CCh response, although procaine abolished the caffeine, InsP3 and CCh responses in the permeabilized tracheal smooth muscle. 5. Although inhibition of the caffeine response by 30 microM ryanodine was nearly complete, approximately 30 % of the InsP3 (300 microM) plus GTP (50 microM) response was retained, and the resultant response disappeared after the caffeine response was evoked in the presence of ryanodine. 6. Heparin (300 microg ml-1) blocked InsP3 (300 microM) and CCh (3 microM) responses in beta-escin-permeabilized tracheal smooth muscle, while Ruthenium Red (100 microM) partially inhibited the CCh response. 7. Collectively, InsP3 but not cADPR or NAADP plays a key role in CCh-initiated contraction, and InsP3 utilizes a single compartment of the caffeine/ryanodine-sensitive stored Ca2+ in airway smooth muscle.

K1115 A, a new anthraquinone that inhibits the binding of activator protein-1 (AP-1) to its recognition sites. II. Taxonomy, fermentation, isolation, physico-chemical properties and structure determination

A new inhibitor of the action of activator protein-1 (AP-1), designated K1115 A, was isolated from the fermentation broth of an actinomycete strain Mer-K1115. K1115 A was determined to be a new anthraquinone, 3,8-dihydroxy-1-propylanthraquinone-2-carboxylic acid, based on spectroscopic analysis, derivatization experiments and biosynthetic studies with 13C-enriched acetic acid. Two co-produced compounds, K1115 B1 and B2, were also isolated and characterized as new members of the naphthopyranomycin and exfoliamycin group.

Suppression of macrophage activation by peritoneal fluid from patients with endometriosis

To investigate the effects of peritoneal fluid from patients with endometriosis on mouse peritoneal macrophages (Mphi), peritoneal fluid from endometriosis patients (n = 15) were added to a monolayer of C3H/HeJ mouse peritoneal Mphi. Tumor necrosis factor-producing activity was measured by the L929 assay activated with FK-23 (a preparation of heat-killed Enterococcus faecalis). Tumor necrosis factor-producing activity of C3H/HeJ mouse peritoneal Mphi incubated with peritoneal fluid was suppressed in 14 endometriosis patients. Interestingly, in nine endometriosis patients, tumor necrosis factor-producing activity was much lower than seen with mouse peritoneal Mphi incubated with corticosterone. Peritoneal fluid contains suppressive properties for the activation of peritoneal Mphi, which might allow the implantation of free endometrial cells or the metaplastic phenomena stimulated by retrograde menstruation.

Human lung mast cells are enriched in the capacity to produce granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor in response to IgE-dependent stimulation

By using reverse transcription-PCR, in situ hybridization, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunocytochemistry, we have studied the production of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in human lung mast cells induced by cross-linkage of high-affinity Fc epsilon receptors (Fc epsilonRI). We have also confirmed the bioactivity of GM-CSF released from lung mast cells by investigating the effect of the supernatant from lung mast cells activated with anti-IgE on the release of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) from eosinophils. Mast cells were purified using affinity magnetic selection with monoclonal antibody (mAb) YB5.B8 (93-99% pure). Purified mast cells were precultured with IgE for 16 h before challenge with 1 microg/ml anti-IgE with or without stem cell factor (SCF). Eosinophils were purified by immunomagnetic negative selection (> 98% pure). The activation of mast cells via Fc epsilonRI enhanced the intensity of the GM-CSF signal within 2 h and the cells produced GM-CSF protein 4 h after the activation. In the absence of recombinant human (rh) SCF, anti-IgE induced a median GM-CSF response of 202 (< 15 to approximately 681) pg/10(6) mast cells/24 h, whereas in the presence of rhSCF the median IgE-dependent GM-CSF release was 356 (152 to approximately 1216) pg/10(6) mast cells/24 h. This difference was statistically significant (p = 0.0029, n = 12). In contrast, mast cells produced only a small amount of GM-CSF in the absence of anti-IgE. The mast cell supernatant induced ECP release from eosinophils and the release was significantly inhibited by blocking mAb against GM-CSF. These findings indicate that human mast cells are an important cellular source of GM-CSF and as such may contribute to chronic eosinophil-mediated inflammation.

Studies on hepatic injury and antioxidant enzyme activities in rat subcellular organelles following in vivo ischemia and reperfusion

The activities of rat hepatic subcellular antioxidant enzymes were studied during hepatic ischemia/reperfusion. Ischemia was induced for 30 min (reversible ischemia) or 60 min (irreversible ischemia). Ischemia was followed by 2 or 24 h of reperfusion. Hepatocyte peroxisomal catalase enzyme activity decreased during 60 min of ischemia and declined further during reperfusion. Peroxisomes of normal density (d = 1.225 gram/ml) were observed in control tissues. However, 60 min of ischemia also produced a second peak of catalase specific activity in subcellular fractions corresponding to newly formed low density immature peroxisomes (d = 1.12 gram/ml). The second peak was also detectable after 30 min of ischemia followed by reperfusion for 2 or 24 h. Mitochondrial and microsomal fractions responded differently. MnSOD activity in mitochondria and microsomal fractions increased significantly (p < 0.05) after 30 min of ischemia, but decreased below control values following 60 min of ischemia and remained lower during reperfusion at 2 and 24 h in both organelle fractions. Conversely, mitochondrial and microsomal glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity increased significantly (p < 0.001) after 60 min of ischemia and was sustained during 24 h of reperfusion. In the cytosolic fraction, a significant increase in CuZnSOD activity was noted following reperfusion in animals subjected to 30 min of ischemia, but 60 min of ischemia and 24 h of reperfusion resulted in decreased CuZnSOD activity. These studies suggest that the antioxidant enzymes of various subcellular compartments respond to ischemia/reperfusion in an organelle or compartment specific manner and that the regulation of antioxidant enzyme activity in peroxisomes may differ from that in mitochondria and microsomes. The compartmentalized changes in hepatic antioxidant enzyme activity may be crucial determinant of cell survival and function during ischemia/reperfusion. Finally, a progressive decline in the level of hepatic reduced glutathione (GSH) and concomitant increase in serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) activity also suggest that greater tissue damage and impairment of intracellular antioxidant activity occur with longer ischemia periods, and during reperfusion.

Studies on hepatic injury and antioxidant enzyme activities in rat subcellular organelles following in vivo ischemia and reperfusion

The activities of rat hepatic subcellular antioxidant enzymes were studied during hepatic ischemia/reperfusion. Ischemia was induced for 30 min (reversible ischemia) or 60 min (irreversible ischemia). Ischemia was followed by 2 or 24 h of reperfusion. Hepatocyte peroxisomal catalase enzyme activity decreased during 60 min of ischemia and declined further during reperfusion. Peroxisomes of normal density (d = 1.225 gram/ml) were observed in control tissues. However, 60 min of ischemia also produced a second peak of catalase specific activity in subcellular fractions corresponding to newly formed low density immature peroxisomes (d = 1.12 gram/ml). The second peak was also detectable after 30 min of ischemia followed by reperfusion for 2 or 24 h. Mitochondrial and microsomal fractions responded differently. MnSOD activity in mitochondria and microsomal fractions increased significantly (p < 0.05) after 30 min of ischemia, but decreased below control values following 60 min of ischemia and remained lower during reperfusion at 2 and 24 h in both organelle fractions. Conversely, mitochondrial and microsomal glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity increased significantly (p < 0.001) after 60 min of ischemia and was sustained during 24 h of reperfusion. In the cytosolic fraction, a significant increase in CuZnSOD activity was noted following reperfusion in animals subjected to 30 min of ischemia, but 60 min of ischemia and 24 h of reperfusion resulted in decreased CuZnSOD activity. These studies suggest that the antioxidant enzymes of various subcellular compartments respond to ischemia/reperfusion in an organelle or compartment specific manner and that the regulation of antioxidant enzyme activity in peroxisomes may differ from that in mitochondria and microsomes. The compartmentalized changes in hepatic antioxidant enzyme activity may be crucial determinant of cell survival and function during ischemia/reperfusion. Finally, a progressive decline in the level of hepatic reduced glutathione (GSH) and concomitant increase in serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) activity also suggest that greater tissue damage and impairment of intracellular antioxidant activity occur with longer ischemia periods, and during reperfusion.

Micrometastatic P53-positive cells in the lymph nodes of non-small-cell lung cancer: prognostic significance

OBJECTIVES

Approximately one fourth of all patients with stage I non-small-cell lung cancer die of tumor recurrence, despite radical removal of their tumors. We thus tried to detect micrometastasis in the regional lymph nodes indicated to be tumor free by conventional histopathologic methods in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer by using immunohistochemical staining for p53 protein. We also investigated the relation between micrometastatic p53-positive cells in the lymph nodes and the prognosis of the patients.

METHODS

Samples from 480 regional lymph nodes were taken from 47 patients who underwent pulmonary resection for non-small-cell lung cancer and whose primary lesions were positive for p53 immunohistochemical staining. These samples were fixed in formalin and embedded in paraffin. We used p53 immunohistochemical staining to detect micrometastatic tumor cells in the lymph nodes.

RESULTS

Cells positive for p53 protein were found in 14 of 31 (45%) patients with a negative pathologic lymph node status and in 26 of 315 (8.3%) lymph nodes in these patients. The proportion of patients with micrometastasis who survived was also significantly lower than the proportion of patients without micrometastasis who survived (p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Immunohistochemical staining for the p53 protein offers a rapid, sensitive, and useful way of detecting for micrometastasis to the regional lymph nodes in patients with non-small-cell lung cancer that is positive for p53 staining. The patients with such micrometastases have a poor prognosis and thus need to be carefully followed up after the initial pulmonary resection.

Receptor-dependent G protein-mediated Ca2+ sensitization in canine airway smooth muscle

To determine the mechanisms of receptor-dependent Ca2+ sensitization in airway smooth muscle, canine tracheal smooth muscle (CTSM) was permeabilized with alpha-toxin or beta-escin. Although the effects of 5-hydroxytryptamine (100 microM), histamine (100 microM), and the thromboxane A2 analogue U-46619 (100 microM) were negligible, carbachol (100 microM) and endothelin-1 (ET-1, 1 microM) evoked additional contractions of 47.0 +/- 5.90% and 25.0 +/- 5.37% (n = 6) at pCa 6.7 with GTP (3 microM) (normalized to the maximum contraction at pCa 4.5) in alpha-toxin-permeabilized CTSM. GDP-beta-S (1 mM) reversed the carbachol and ET-1 responses completely. GTP-gamma-S (30 microM) and 4 beta-phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate (PDBu, 3 microM) increased the Ca2+ sensitivity (median effective pCa) of contraction by 1.8- and 4.4-fold, respectively (n = 4-11, P < 0.05). The effects of saturating concentrations of GTP-gamma-S and PDBu were additive. A synthetic peptide (T2) corresponding to the actin-binding site of calponin caused a dose-dependent contraction of beta-escin permeabilized CTSM, with the peak effect (25 +/- 4%, n = 4) at 1200 microM, PDBu (3 microM) caused contraction of the T2 peptide-treated CTSM. In conclusion, Ca2+ sensitization of CTSM depends on receptor type and is mediated by G proteins and protein kinase C whose effects are additive, with a partial contribution by calponin.

[Malignant hemangioendothelioma associated with chronic pyothorax]

A 67-year-old man was admitted to the hospital because of a fever. A chest CT scan showed multilobular heterogeneous shadows on the right side in the chest wall and the lung, but clinical examinations and examination of a biopsy specimen did not lead to a diagnosis. At autopsy, a hemorrhagic tumor was found on the right side in the chest wall. Microscopical examination showed that large atypical cells had proliferated and formed vascular structures, which were stained positively with anti-factor VIII antibody. The histological findings led to the diagnosis of malignant hemangioendothelioma. Chronic empyema-associated malignant hemangioendothelioma is rare.

Modulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes by nitric oxide in rat C6 glial cells

To understand the possible mechanism of nitric oxide (NO)-mediated cytotoxicity, we investigated the effect of NO on the endogenous antioxidant enzymes (AOEs) catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and CuZn- and Mn-superoxide dismutases (SODs) in rat C6 glial cells under conditions in which these cells expressed oligodendrocyte-like properties as evidenced by the expression of 2',3'-cyclic-nucleotide 3'-phosphohydrolase. The 24-h treatment with S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), a NO donor, decreased the activities and the protein levels of catalase, GPX, and Mn-SOD in a dose-dependent manner. Alternatively, the activity and the protein level of CuZn-SOD were increased. 2-Phenyl-4,4, 5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl-3-oxide (PTIO), a NO scavenger, blocked the effect of SNAP. Moreover, the treatment of C6 cells with sodium nitroprusside, another NO donor, or with a combination of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), which induce excessive production of NO, also significantly modulated the AOE activities in a manner similar to that seen with SNAP treatment. The compounds/enzymes that inhibit the production of NO (e.g., N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride, arginase, and PTIO) blocked the effects of LPS and IFN-gamma on the activities of AOEs. Treatment with SNAP and a combination of LPS and IFN-gamma also modulated the mRNA levels of AOEs, parallel to the changes in their protein levels and activities, except for Mn-SOD where the combination of LPS and IFN-gamma markedly stimulated the mRNA expression. In spite of the stimulation of mRNA level, LPS and IFN-gamma significantly inhibited the activity of Mn-SOD within the first 24 h of incubation; however, Mn-SOD activity gradually increased with the increase in time of incubation. These results suggest that alterations in the status of AOEs by NO may be the basis of NO-induced cytotoxicity in disease states associated with excessive NO production.

[Removal of bronchial foreign bodies by suction with a bronchoscope]

We report two cases in which intrabronchial foreign bodies were removed with a fiberoptic bronchoscope. In both cases the foreign body was a seed of a small Japanese apricot. Atelectasis or obstructive pneumonia was seen on chest roentgenograms. The foreign bodies were associated with slight inflammation and polyps on the bronchial epithelium. The foreign bodies were removed by applying suction with a fiberoptic bronchoscope. This method may also be useful for removing other large, hard, uneven, and ball-like foreign bodies.

A selective pulmonary thrombosis associated with sepsis-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a pathologic condition associated with critical illnesses, including sepsis. Recent studies have suggested that endogenous cytokines and leukocytes are involved in major roles of its pathophysiology. We report a case of sepsis-induced DIC due to pneumonia that was associated with diffuse and selective thrombosis in pulmonary arteries, yielding to sudden death from pulmonary massive embolism. This report suggests that the selective and lethal pulmonary thromboembolism progresses under the standard therapies in sepsis-induced DIC.

Decreased pulmonary perfusion in hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by Shiitake mushroom spores

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an occupational hazard of mushroom workers. We describe a patient with severe hypersensitivity pneumonitis caused by spores of the Shiitake mushroom (Lentinus edodes) who showed a marked decrease in pulmonary perfusion, as demonstrated by pulmonary scintigraphy. This patient was treated successfully with prednisolone. These results suggest that pulmonary vasculitis may be associated with patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis, and that steroid therapy may be clinically useful in treatment.

[Rapid progression of adenocarcinoma of the lung in a patient with high levels of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor]

A 51-year-old man was referred and admitted to our hospital for further examination of an abnormal shadow on a chest X-ray film. One month before admission, a chest X-ray film had shown no abnormality. On admission, chest X-ray films and computed tomograms showed a tumor shadow in the right hilum, obstructive pneumonia in the right upper lobe, and a right-sided pleural effusion. Cytological examination of the pleural offusion revealed adenocarcinoma. The patients was given supportive care. The tumor grew rapidly and by the 13th hospital day it occupied whole right upper lobe. The patient died on the 21st day after admission. The white blood cell count had increased to 26540/mm3 as the adenocarcinoma grew. Serum granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), which increases the number of neutrophils in blood in vivo was examined. The serum G-CSF level reached 112 pg/ml. On immunohistochemical examination, the tumor cells stained positively with anti-G-CSF monoclonal antibody. The growth of this tumor was more rapid than expected for adenocarcinoma of the lung. These findings suggest that G-CSF induced growth of the tumor.

Allergic responses reduce the relaxant effect of beta-agonists but not potassium channel openers in guinea-pig isolated trachea

This study was conducted to determine whether the relaxant effect of adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-sensitive potassium channel (KATP) openers on airway smooth muscle are reduced during the hyporesponsiveness of beta-adrenergic receptors. Isometric tension was measured and dose-response curves were constructed for levcromakalim (a KATP opener), Y-26763 (another KATP opener), isoprenaline and theophylline in guinea-pig isolated trachea that was challenged with ovalbumin or pretreated in vitro with either isoprenaline or the KATP openers. Antigen challenge in vitro significantly reduced the potency but not the efficacy of isoprenaline in tracheal strips from actively sensitized guinea-pigs. The concentration of drug that produced a half-maximum inhibition (IC50) was 0.014 +/- 0.004 microM in the challenge group versus 0.006 +/- 0.001 microM in the control group (p < 0.05; n = 9). The IC50 of levcromakalim (1.73 +/- 0.17 microM; n = 6) and of theophylline (110 +/- 3.1 microM; n = 6) were unaffected. Exposure to 4 microM isoprenaline for 30 min evoked beta-adrenergic hyporesponsiveness: the IC50 of isoprenaline rose significantly from 0.010 +/- 0.001 to 0.017 +/- 0.002 microM (p < 0.01; n = 6). No effect was observed on the relaxant actions of levcromakalim and theophylline. In contrast, prior incubation with either levcromakalim or Y-26763 (300 microM for 30 min) significantly reduced the subsequent potency and efficacy of levcromakalim, but did not alter the effects of isoprenaline and theophylline. We conclude that the relaxant effect of the adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channel openers was independent of beta-adrenergic hyporesponsiveness in airway smooth muscle of guinea-pigs.

Effect of cetirizine on antigen-induced tracheal contraction of passively sensitized guinea pigs

BACKGROUND

Cetirizine dihydrochloride (cetirizine), a potent histamine H1-receptor antagonist, has been developed as an anti-allergy drug.

OBJECT

The anti-allergic effects and mechanism of cetirizine were studied using in vitro assay systems.

METHODS

We investigated the effect of cetirizine on antigen-induced contractions of isolated tracheal strips and on chemical mediator release from antigen-stimulated lung chips taken from passively sensitized guinea pigs. We examined the antigen-induced mobilization of Ca2+ in MC/9 mast cells sensitized with IgE.

RESULTS

Cetirizine inhibited the antigen-induced contraction of isolated guinea-pig trachea concentration dependently. Pyrilamine, another histamine H1-receptor antagonist, delayed the response but did not change the maximum amplitude. Cetirizine at the concentration of 3 microM also inhibited the antigen-induced release of histamine, leukotriene D4, and leukotriene E4 from guinea pig lung chips. Furthermore, it inhibited the antigen-induced Ca2+ increase in MC/9 mast cells, whereas pyrilamine did not.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that one anti-allergic mechanism of cetirizine may inhibit mediator release which is, at least partially, mediated by a decrease in the transient Ca2+ influx in mast cells.

Immunolocalization of cellular glutathione peroxidase in adult rat lungs and quantitative analysis after postembedding immunogold labeling

To determine the distribution of cellular glutathione peroxidase in rat lungs, the tissues were stained immunohistochemically. Quantitative analysis was performed in certain cell types of alveolar linings, after the ultrathin sections were stained by a postembedding immunogold technique. Immunoblot analysis revealed that homogenates of rat liver, heart, and lungs all gave a single band. Under the light microscope, the following tissues were stained intensely: epithelial cells, smooth muscle cells and glands of bronchi and bronchioles, type II alveolar cells, and alveolar macrophages. Under immunoelectron microscopy, type II alveolar cells and macrophages were abundant in mitochondria. The mitochondria, nucleus, and cytoplasm of macrophages were labeled almost twice as densely as the respective compartments of type II alveolar cells. Within cell types, the mitochondria were labeled twice as densely as the nuclei. The other particles were less than half as densely labeled as the nuclei. The labeling was slightly less dense in the cytoplasm than in the nucleus. The present study revealed that glutathione peroxidase occurred predominantly in the epithelial linings and metabolically active sites in rat lungs. The tissues that were previously found to be rich in superoxide dismutases were also rich in glutathione peroxidase.

The direct effect of interferon-gamma on human eosinophilic leukemia cell lines: the induction of interleukin-5 mRNA and the presence of an interferon-gamma receptor

The EoL-1 and EoL-3, human eosinophilic leukemia cell lines, have been used as models for studying the maturation and the function of human eosinophils. We investigated the effects of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) on superoxide anion (O2-) production of these cell lines and interleukin-5 (IL-5) mRNA expression in the EoL-1. O2- was measured by chemiluminescence of MCLA, one of cypridina luciferin analogs. The O2- production of fMLP-stimulated EoL-1 and EoL-3 was increased by the IFN-gamma treatment. IL-5 mRNA expression was detected in the IFN-gamma-treated EoL-1 by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Further, we examined IFN-gamma receptor 1 mRNA expression in these cell lines and peripheral blood eosinophils by means of northern blot hybridization. IFN-gamma receptor 1 mRNA was detected in the EoL-3 and the IFN-gamma-treated EoL-1. A weak expression of IFN-gamma receptor 1 mRNA was detected in peripheral blood eosinophils isolated from a patient with eosinophilia. These results suggest that IFN-gamma may act on eosinophils directly through its receptor.

Induction of muscarinic receptor subtypes in monocytic/macrophagic cells differentiated from EoL-1 cells

We demonstrated that eosinophilic leukemia cell line-1 (EoL-1 cells) differentiated into monocytic/macrophagic cells by a treatment with interferon-gamma. Muscarinic receptor mRNA was not detected in untreated EoL-1 cells, and the cytosolic concentration of Ca2+ ([Ca2+]i) did not rise either in these cells. Interestingly, when EoL-1 cells were treated with interferon-gamma, mRNAs for muscarinic M3 and M5 receptors could be detected in these cells, along with an increase in [Ca2+]i and chemotaxis induced by carbachol that could be blocked with 4-diphenylacetoxy-N-methylpiperidine methiodide (4-DAMP) and pirenzepine. These data support the functional importance of muscarinic M3 and M5 receptors in monocytic/macrophagic cells differentiated from EoL-1 cells. This model also provides evidence of a significant functional interaction between muscarinic M3 and M5 receptors.

Tissue differences in antioxidant enzyme gene expression in response to endotoxin

The effect of endotoxin on antioxidant gene expression and antioxidant enzyme activity in homogenates of the heart, liver, and kidney from Sprague-Dawley rats was compared by quantitation of m-RNA and enzyme activities. Alterations in the message level for Cu-Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD), Mn SOD, and catalase varied with the tissue type, length of exposure to endotoxin, and dose of endotoxin. In general, endotoxin treatment reduced Cu-Zn SOD expression in the heart and liver, but had no noticeable effect in the kidney. Mn SOD message levels were increased in the heart and kidney but decreased in the liver. Catalase expression was reduced in the kidney and increased marginally in the heart and liver. With regard to enzyme activity, endotoxin treatment reduced Cu-Zn SOD activity in the heart, liver, and kidney. Mn SOD activity showed little change in the heart, but increased in the liver and, to a lesser extent, in the kidney. Catalase activity showed little change in the heart and kidney but was decreased at 12 h in the liver. The differing responses of tissues to the oxidant stress of endotoxin exposure should be considered when evaluating the effect of endotoxin on antioxidant enzymes.

Induction of apoptosis by ubenimex (Bestatin) in human non-small-cell lung cancer cell lines

We studied the direct anti-tumor effects of ubenimex on five human lung cancer cell lines; ABC-1, RERF-LC-OK, RERF-LC-MS (adenocarcinoma) and SQ-5, EBC-1 (squamous cell carcinoma). Ubenimex dose-dependently inhibited the growth of these cancer cell lines except RERF-LC-MS. The results indicated that lung squamous cell carcinoma cell lines were more sensitive to ubenimex than lung adenocarcinoma cell lines. Coincidentally, histological observation by Hematoxylin eosine (HE) staining revealed that ubenimex induced nuclear condensation and apoptic body in the cancer cell lines. Immunohistochemical study showed ubenimex-treated cells expressed LeY antigen which is a useful phenotypic marker predictive of apoptosis. The induction of DNA fragmentation was also observed in the ubenimex treated cancer cell lines by ELISA. We conclude that ubenimex exhibits its direct anti-tumor effect against non-small-cell lung cancer cell lines, more effectively against squamous carcinoma cell lines, through the induction of apoptosis.

Immunohistochemical localization and quantitative analysis of cellular glutathione peroxidase in foetal and neonatal rat tissues: fluorescence microscopy image analysis

To quantitate the developmental changes in selenium-dependent cellular glutathione peroxidase during the perinatal period, tissue sections from foetal (day 12 to day 22) and neonatal (day 6) rats were stained immunohistochemically using specific polyclonal antiserum. The intensity of the staining was quantified by fluorescence microscopy image analysis. There was a general trend of enriched glutathione peroxidase in the epithelial linings and metabolically active sites. Significant fluorescence was detected in cardiomyocytes, hepatocytes, renal tubular epithelium, bronchiolar epithelium and intestinal epithelium at day 15. The intensity increased in a stepwise manner thereafter. The overall increase in the intensity of staining in the heart, liver, kidneys, lungs and intestine was 1.5-, 2.3-, 1.6-, 1.7- and 3.0-fold, respectively. The phase of most rapid increase occurred during the foetal period in the liver, intestine and heart. In the kidneys and lungs, glutathione peroxidase increased significantly during foetal life, and to a similar extent postnatally. These results suggest that the intracellular H2O2-scavenging system develops during the foetal period as an essential mechanism for living under atmospheric oxygen conditions. The late development observed in the kidneys and lungs is consistent with the relative biological immaturity of these organs in full-term neonates.

Effects of interferon-gamma on cell differentiation and cytokine production of a human monoblast cell line, U937

The U937 cell, a human monoblast cell line, has been used as a model to study the function of human monocytes. We investigated the effects of interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) on superoxide anion (O2-) production, cell surface antigens, and cytokine production of U937 cells. IFN-gamma treatment enhanced O2- production of fMLP or PMA-stimulated U937 cells. IFN-gamma increased the ratio of CD23 and CD11b positive cells. The fluorescence intensity of CD14 and CD25 was enhanced by IFN-gamma treatment. U937 cells produced IL-1 alpha, IL-1 beta, IL-6, and TNF-alpha by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) stimulation. IFN-gamma treatment enhanced TNF-alpha production, but decreased IL-6 production. These results suggest that IFN-gamma differentiates U937 cells to monocyte-like cells and it regulates the production systems of IL-6 and TNF-alpha separately in U937 cells.

Suppression of anti-Candida activity of murine neutrophils by progesterone in vitro: a possible mechanism in pregnant women's vulnerability to vaginal candidiasis

Sex steroid hormones were examined for their effect on mycelial growth of Candida albicans, and the inhibitory activity of casein-induced murine peritoneal neutrophils against mycelial growth of C. albicans was examined in vitro using a crystal violet staining method or a [3H]glucose incorporation method. Four steroid hormones, danazol, estradiol, estriol and testosterone had no effect on mycelial growth of C. albicans, but progesterone appeared to convert the growth form of C. albicans from hyphal to yeast. Danazol (10(-6) M) and progesterone (10(-5) M) suppressed anti-Candida activity of neutrophils of non-treated mice, while testosterone, estradiol, and estriol did not. The anti-Candida activity of neutrophils of estradiol-pretreated mice was clearly suppressed by progesterone even at 10(-6) M which corresponded to its plasma concentration in pregnant women in the third trimester. The physiological significance of this suppressive effect of progesterone was discussed in relation to the vulnerability of pregnant women to vaginal candidiasis.

Relationships between biochemical abnormalities and anthropometric indices of overweight, adiposity and body fat distribution in Japanese elementary school children

OBJECTIVE

To determine the anthropometric indices linked to the biochemical risk factors for atherosclerosis in Japanese obese elementary school children, ages ranging from 6 to 12 years.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study of obese children based on fasting blood samples.

SETTING

Outpatient clinic of University Hospital.

SUBJECTS

65 consecutive patients with simple obesity (38 boys and 27 girls), and age-matched controls, 184 boys and 205 girls.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Percent obesity and body mass index as indices of being overweight; percent body fat and the sum of four skinfold thicknesses as indices of adiposity; waist-to-hip circumference ratio and waist-to-thigh circumference ratio as indices of body fat distribution. The anthropometric indices were standardized by calculating standard deviation scores based on data from control children.

RESULTS

In the obese boys, all six anthropometric indices studied correlated closely with serum biochemical indices, and strong correlations were observed among the indices of overweight, adiposity and body fat distribution. In contrast, only the indices of body fat distribution, not those of overweight or of adiposity, were correlated with serum biochemical indices in the obese girls. No relationship was found between the indices of body fat distribution and the other anthropometric indices in the obese girls. Thus, the profile of the obese girls differed from that of their male counterparts.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that body fat distribution is related to certain biochemical complications of childhood obesity, and that androgyny in fat patterns induces metabolic derangements in children.

Effect of an alpha 2-adrenoceptor antagonist, midaglizole, on bronchial responsiveness to histamine in patients with mild asthma

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of midaglizole (MID) and interactions of MID with beta 2-agonists on bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR). Thirteen patients with mild asthma were randomized with respect to whether they were taking oral beta 2-agonists, and the investigators were blinded to patients' regular drug regimens. Histamine challenge test was performed before and after oral administration of MID for 1 week (300 mg/day). There was a significant increase in PC20 values in asthmatic subjects on regular therapy with beta 2-agonists (p < 0.05), whereas asthmatics not taking beta 2-agonists showed no significant change in PC20. These results suggest that MID may participate in improved BHR in the presence of beta 2-agonists and play some role in enhancing the effects of beta 2-agonists.