Anti-tumor promoting diterpenes from the stem bark of Thuja standishii (Cupressaceae)

Three new labdane-type diterpenoids, labda-8(17),13-dien-15,12R-olid-19-oic acid (1), 12S-hydroxylabda-8(17),13(16),14-trien-19-oic acid (2) and 13-ethoxylabda-8(17),11,14-trien-19-oic acid (3), along with known diterpenoids, trans-communic acid (4), totarol (5), 12-methoxyabieta-8,11,13-trien-11-ol (6), and 7 alpha,8 alpha-epoxy-6 alpha-hydroxyabieta-9(11),13-dien-12-one (7) were isolated from the stem bark of Thuja standishii. The structures of 1--3 were established by spectroscopic methods and chemical conversion. These compounds together with standishinal (8), 12-hydroxy-6,7-seco-abieta-8,11,13-trien-6,7-dial (9) and 6 alpha-hydroxysugiol (10) were tested for their inhibitory effects on Epstein--Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) activation induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), as a test for potential cancer chemopreventive agents. Compound 10 showed strong inhibitory effect on EBV-EA induction (100% inhibition at 1000 mol ratio/TPA), and compounds 2 and 6 showed moderate inhibitory effects on EBV-EA induction. In addition, 15-oxolabda-8(17),11Z,13E-trien-19-oic acid (11) was found to exhibit the anti-tumor promoting activity in two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis test using 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene and TPA.

The effect of antimicrobial periodontal treatment on circulating tumor necrosis factor-alpha and glycated hemoglobin level in patients with type 2 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) may play an important role in insulin resistance. In this study, we hypothesized that TNF-alpha produced due to periodontal inflammation synergistically affects insulin resistance as well as TNF-alpha produced from adipose tissues in insulin-resistant type 2 diabetes patients. Therefore, to understand the effects of antimicrobial periodontal therapy on serum TNF-alpha concentration and subsequent metabolic control of diabetes, we examined the periodontal and diabetic status on 13 type-2 diabetes patients.

METHODS

These patients were treated with local minocycline administration in every periodontal pocket around all existing teeth once a week for a month. Before and after treatment, the number of total bacteria in the periodontal pockets and circulating TNF-alpha concentration were measured and the HbA1c value was assessed.

RESULTS

Antimicrobial therapy significantly reduced the number of microorganisms in periodontal pockets (P <0.01). After treatment, the circulating TNF-alpha level was significantly reduced (P <0.015). The HbA1c value was also reduced significantly (P <0.007). In addition, the 6 patients who were not receiving insulin therapy demonstrated decreased fasting insulin levels (P <0.03), and HOMA-R (P <0.03) indices. The average reductions in circulating TNF-alpha concentration and HbA1c value were 0.49 pg/ml and 0.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that anti-infectious treatment is effective in improving metabolic control in diabetics, possibly through reduced serum TNF-alpha and improved insulin resistance.

Development of articular cartilage: what do we know about it and how may it occur?

Articular cartilage has a fundamental role in joint function. While much is known about its structure, organization and biomechanical properties, there is a very poor understanding of how articular chondrocytes develop during embryogenesis and acquire the unique ability to organize and maintain the articular tissue. Given that articular cartilage forms in close juxtaposition with the joint, here we review past studies on limb joint determination and morphogenesis and more recent studies on a number of factors thought to have roles in joint and epiphysis development. These factors include: the homeobox gene Barx-1; the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family member GDF-5; the growth factors HGF and PTHrP; and the transcription factor ERG. We summarize current thinking on how these factors participate in joint development and how some of these factors may influence development and behavior of epiphyseal chondrocytes. We also describe pertinent recent studies from our laboratories on ERG and the newly-identified alternatively spliced variant C-1-1, and finally propose a sequela of events that may subtend the process of determination and emergence of articular chondrocytes during limb synovial joint development.

Response of the stroke volume and blood pressure of young patients with nonobstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy to exercise

Stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were measured during maximal symptom-limited bicycle exercise testing in 13 young patients (age, 11-26 years) with nonobstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). SV was measured by impedance plethysmocardiography; %SVend, %COend, and %SBPend represent the ratio of the value at termination of the exercise to the respective value at rest. In all patients of HCM-I (the Cardiac Event Group, 3 patients) and 3 of HCM-II (the Non-Cardiac Event Group, 10 patients), the %SVend was less than 100%. The %SVend of HCM-I was significantly lower than the respective values of the HCM-II and Control groups. The %COend values of the HCM-I and HCM-II groups were each significantly lower than that of the Control. The %SBPend values of the HCM-I and HCM-II groups were each significantly lower than that of the Control. Among the HCM patients, the %SVend value was positively correlated with the %SBPend value. The patients who had more severe HCM had poorer exercise-induced increases in SV and SBP. These results suggest that sudden cardiac death in young HCM patients is associated with inhibition of the increase in SV upon exercise.

Molecular cloning of human squamous cell carcinoma antigen 1 gene and characterization of its promoter

The squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) serves as a serological marker for squamous cell carcinomas. Molecular cloning of the SCCA genomic region has revealed the presence of two tandemly arrayed genes, SCCA1 and SCCA2, which are 95% identical in nucleotide sequence. SCCA1 is a papain-like cysteine proteinase inhibitor, while SCCA2 is a chymotrypsin-like serine proteinase inhibitor. We analyzed here the sequence and the promoter activity of the 5'-flanking region of the SCCA1 gene. Deletion analysis of SCCA1 and SCCA2 promoter identified a 471-bp core promoter region upstream of the transcription start site. The transcriptional activity of SCCA1 promoter was up-regulated in squamous cell carcinoma cells, compared with keratinocyte and adenocarcinoma cells. The ratios of SCCA1 to SCCA2 promoter activity in squamous cell carcinoma, keratinocyte and adenocarcinoma cells were respectively 1.6, 5.3 and 2.8. Position -50 of SCCA1 and SCCA2 promoters played an important role in determining the promoter activities of SCCA1 and SCCA2. These findings suggest that the transcriptional regulation of SCCA1 and SCCA2 might differ among squamous cell carcinoma, keratinocyte and adenocarcinoma cells, and that SCCA1 promoter might be a potential target of gene therapy for squamous cell carcinoma.

Measurement of the CP violation parameter sin2 phi(1) in B(0)(d) meson decays

We present a measurement of the standard model CP violation parameter sin2 phi(1) (also known as sin2beta) based on a 10.5 fb(-1) data sample collected at the Upsilon(4S) resonance with the Belle detector at the KEKB asymmetric e(+)e(-) collider. One neutral B meson is reconstructed in the J/psiK(S), psi(2S)K(S), chi(c1)K(S), eta(c)K(S), J/psiK(L), or J/psipi(0) CP-eigenstate decay channel and the flavor of the accompanying B meson is identified from its charged particle decay products. From the asymmetry in the distribution of the time interval between the two B-meson decay points, we determine sin2 phi(1) = 0.58(+0.32)(-0.34)(stat)+0.09-0.10(syst).

[A case of advanced gastric cancer complicated with liver metastases responding remarkably to combined chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil and low-dose cisplatin, with UFT and low-dose cisplatin for maintenance on an outpatient basis]

A 77-year-old man who had advanced gastric cancer with multiple liver metastases was treated by combined chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil and low-dose cisplatin for 1 and half courses (1 course = 4 weeks). After this treatment, the primary gastric lesion was reduced, the liver metastases disappeared, and serum tumor marker levels decreased. After discharge, we administered a dose of 300 mg of UFT-E orally every day, and 10 mg of CDDP intravenously once weekly on an outpatient basis. The patient has survived with a good quality of life.

Gene expression of human squamous cell carcinoma antigens 1 and 2 in human cell lines

The squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) serves as a serological marker for squamous cell carcinomas. Molecular cloning of the SCCA genomic region has revealed the presence of two tandemly arrayed genes, SCCA1 and SCCA2. SCCA1 is a papain-like cysteine proteinase inhibitor, while SCCA2 is a chymotrypsin-like serine proteinase inhibitor. Little is known concerning how expression of the SCCA1 and SCCA2 genes is regulated in human cell lines. The purpose of this study was to determine whether the SCCA1 gene or SCCA2 gene is more strongly expressed in human cell lines. Squamous cell carcinoma cell lines secreted respectively 4 times and 50 times as much SCCA proteins into medium as normal human keratinocyte and non-squamous cell carcinoma cell lines, as measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Quantitative RT-PCR ELISA digoxigenin-labeling assay demonstrated that SCCA1 mRNA expression in squamous cell carcinoma cell lines was respectively 2.8 times and 42 times that in keratinocyte and non-squamous cell carcinoma cell lines. The ratio of SCCA1 to SCCA2 mRNA expression differed distinctly among squamous cell carcinoma, keratinocyte and non-squamous cell carcinoma cell lines (2.8, squamous; 24.1, keratinocyte; 11.0, non-squamous). These findings suggest that SCCA1 is mainly expressed in squamous cell carcinoma, keratinocyte and non-squamous cell carcinoma cell lines and that the ratio of SCCA1 to SCCA2 expression might be a novel marker for the detection of squamous cell carcinoma.

Cloning and molecular characterization of hrpX from Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri

The hrpX gene of plant pathogenic Xanthomonas species is essential for pathogenicity on host plants and to cause hypersensitive reaction on non-host plants. We cloned and analyzed a hrpX homologue, designated hrpXct, of X. axonopodis pv. citri, a pathogen of citrus canker. The open reading frame of hrpXct has 1431 bp in nucleotides which has a coding capacity of 476 amino acid residues with a molecular mass of 52.4 kDa. The predicted amino acid sequence of HrpXct has 90% identity to the AraC family type transcriptional activator protein HrpXc of X. campestris pv. campestris, 95% to HrpXo of X. oryzae pv. oryzae and 97% to X. vesicatoria. These findings clearly indicate and confirm that the structure of the hrpX genes in plant pathogenic Xanthomonas species is highly conserved.

Lessons from BXSB and related mouse models

The BXSB murine strain spontaneously develops an autoimmune syndrome with features of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) that affects males much earlier than females, due to the presence of an as yet unidentified mutant gene located on its Y chromosome, designated Yaa (Y-linked autoimmune acceleration). The Yaa gene by itself is unable to induce significant autoimmune responses in mice without an apparent SLE background, while it can induce and accelerate the development of an SLE in combination with autosomal susceptibility alleles present in lupus-prone mice. Although the genes encoded within or closely linked to the MHC locus play an important role in the development or protection of SLE, the MHC effect can be completely masked by the presence of the Yaa gene in mice highly predisposed to SLE. The role of the Yaa gene for the acceleration of SLE is apparently two-fold; it enhances overall autoimmune responses against autoantigens to which mice respond relatively weakly, and promotes Th 1 responses against autoantigens to which mice respond relatively well, leading to the production of more pathogenic autoantibodies, i.e., FcgammaR-fixing IgG2a and cryoglobulin IgG3 autoantibodies. Yaa+ - Yaa- double bone marrow chimera experiments revealed that the Yaa defect is expressed in B cells, but not in T cells, and that T cells from non-autoimmune mice are capable of providing help for autoimmune responses by collaborating Yaa+ B cells. We speculate that the Yaa defect may decrease the threshold for antigen receptor-dependent stimulation, leading to the triggering and excessive stimulation of autoreactive T and B cells.

Photo-induced proton transport of pharaonis phoborhodopsin (sensory rhodopsin II) is ceased by association with the transducer

Phoborhodopsin (pR; also sensory rhodopsin II, sRII) is a retinoid protein in Halobacterium salinarum and works as a receptor of negative phototaxis. Pharaonis phoborhodopsin (ppR; also pharaonis sensory rhodopsin II, psRII) is a corresponding protein of Natronobacterium pharaonis. In bacterial membrane, ppR forms a complex with its transducer pHtrII, and this complex transmits the light signal to the sensory system in the cytoplasm. We expressed pHtrII-free ppR or ppR-pHtrII complex in H. salinarum Pho81/wr(-) cells. Flash-photolysis experiments showed no essential changes between pHtrII-free ppR and the complex. Using SnO2 electrode, which works as a sensitive pH electrode, and envelope membrane vesicles, we showed the photo-induced outward proton transport. This membranous proton transport was also shown using membrane vesicles from Escherichia coli in which ppR was functionally expressed. On the other hand, the proton transport was ceased when ppR formed a complex with pHtrII. Using membrane sheet, it was shown that the complex undergoes first proton uptake and then release during the photocycle, the same as pHtrII-free ppR, although the net proton transport ceases. Taking into consideration that the complex of sRII (pR) and its transducer undergoes extracellular proton circulation (J. Sasaki and J. L., Biophys. J. 77:2145-2152), we inferred that association with pHtrII closes a cytoplasmic channel of ppR, which lead to the extracellular proton circulation.

Idiopathic sustained left ventricular tachycardia in pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Idiopathic sustained ventricular tachycardia originating from the left ventricle (ILVT) has been an indication for catheter ablation. The present study evaluated the clinical features, long-term prognosis and indications for treatment in pediatric patients with ILVT.

METHODS

The subjects of the present study were eight patients (four males and four females) with a mean age at onset of 11.0 years (range 3-15 years). The mean follow-up period was 7.7 years (range 2.1-11.3 years).

RESULTS

In electrophysiologic studies, intravenously administered verapamil was effective for the termination of tachycardia in all six patients who received this treatment and for the prevention of tachycardia in four of five patients. Oral administration of verapamil was effective in five of seven patients. Propranolol or flecainide was added to the treatment protocol for two patients who did not respond to verapamil alone. Tachycardia disappeared without drugs in four patients during the follow-up period and became non-sustained in another patient. Two of three patients with persistent tachycardia underwent catheter ablation. Pharmacologic treatment was very effective for ILVT among these patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Pharmacologic therapy, such as with verapamil, is still the treatment of choice for ILVT because of a good long-term prognosis and potential risks and complications by manipulation of catheter ablation.

Feeding unsaponifiable compounds from rice bran oil does not alter hepatic mRNA abundance for cholesterol metabolism-related proteins in hypercholesterolemic rats

The hypocholesterolemic effect of rice bran oil (RBO) is defined in human and animal experiments which indicate the presence of active component(s) in the unsaponifiable fraction, but the detailed mechanism is not known yet. Exogenously hypercholesterolemic (ExHC) rats were fed for 2 weeks on a 0.5% cholesterol diet supplemented with 10% each of RBO, RBO-simulated oil (RBOSO) in its fatty acid composition, or RBOSO plus 0.25% unsaponifiable compounds (UC) from RBO. Rats fed RBO or the UC resulted in lowing serum and liver cholesterol concentration and preventing reduction of high density lipoproteinic-cholesterol. Dietary RBO or the UC led to an elevation of fecal neutral sterol excretion, but no significant change in fecal bile acid excretion or in hepatic abundance of mRNAs for 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase, cholesterol-7alpha-hydroxylase, and low density lipoprotein receptor. Besides, serum and liver alpha-tocopherol concentrations were lowered in RBO or the UC-fed rats. These results show that the UC in RBO leads to a decreased serum cholesterol concentration by interrupting the absorption of intestinal hydrophobic compounds rather than by modifying cholesterol metabolism in the liver.

Gene clusters encoding ATP synthase of Haloarcula japonica strain TR-1

The genes encoding I, K, E, C, F, A, B and D subunits of A0A1 ATP synthase were cloned from Haloarcula japonica strain TR-1. The genes were split into two clusters. Northern analysis revealed that the larger gene cluster would be transcribed as a single mRNA.

Cancer chemopreventive agents, labdane diterpenoids from the stem bark of Thuja standishii (Gord.) Carr

Seven labdane-type diterpenoids from the stem bark of Thuja standishii (Gord.) Carr. (Cupressaceae) and their analogues showed strong inhibitory effects on Epstein-Barr virus early antigen (EBV-EA) activation induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Among these compounds, 15,16-bisnor-13-oxolabda-8(17), 11E-dien-19-oic acid was revealed to have the strongest inhibitory effect on the EBV-EA activation, being stronger than that of beta-carotene which has been intensively studied in cancer prevention using animal models. 15,16-bisnor-13-Oxolabda-8(17), 11E-dien-19-oic acid was also found to exhibit the excellent anti-tumor promoting activity in two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis test using 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene and TPA.

Activation of prostacyclin synthesis by mechanical stimulation in the ciliated protozoan Tetrahymena thermophila

We detected a HPLC peak corresponding to 6-keto-PGF(1alpha), a stable metabolite of prostacyclin (PGI(2)), in [1-(14)C]arachidonate metabolites from the ciliated protozoan Tetrahymena thermophila. Quantitative analysis of 6-keto-PGF(1alpha) by enzyme immunoassay revealed that the synthesis and release were rapidly activated by the mechanical stimulation of a short centrifugation. The activation was suppressed significantly by a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, ibuprofen, and was independent of the extracellular Ca(2+). External addition of PGI(2) and its stable analogue, beraprost, caused a transient increase in the tumbling frequency of swimming. Other prostanoids, PGE(2) and PGF(2alpha), have no effect on the swimming. These results indicate that a free-living ciliate, T. thermophila, synthesizes and has a specific sensitivity to PGI(2).

[A case of pulmonary metastases of breast cancer responding remarkably to combined chemotherapy with 5-fluorouracil and low-dose cisplatin]

A 46-year-old-woman underwent breast preserving mastectomy for advanced breast cancer. Seven months after operation, pulmonary metastases were found. The patient was admitted and treated with combined chemotherapy of 5-fluorouracil and low-dose cisplatin for 4 weeks. After discharge, UFT 300 mg orally every day and cisplatin 5 mg div once week were administered for 2 years on an outpatient basis. The result was disappearance of the pulmonary metastases. Five years after operation, the patient is alive without any sign of the pulmonary metastasis.

Development of a finite element model of the human shoulder

Previous studies have hypothesized that the shoulder may be used to absorb some impact energy and reduce chest injury due to side impacts. Before this hypothesis can be tested, a good understanding of the injury mechanisms and the kinematics of the shoulder is critical for occupant protection in side impact. However, existing crash dummies and numerical models are not designed to reproduce the kinematics and kinetics of the human shoulder. The purpose of this study was to develop a finite element model of the human shoulder in order to achieve a deeper understanding of the injury mechanisms and the kinematics of the shoulder in side impact. Basic anthropometric data of the human shoulder used to develop the skeletal and muscular portions of this model were taken from commercial data packages. The shoulder model included three bones (the humerus, scapula and clavicle) and major ligaments and muscles around the shoulder. This model was then integrated into a human thorax model developed at Wayne State University (WSU) along with pre-existing models of other body parts such as the pelvis and the lower extremities. Material properties used for the model were taken from the literature. The model was first used to simulate lateral shoulder impact study by the Association Peugeot- Renault (APR) followed by simulations of several of the 17 rigid and padded cadaveric impacts conducted on a side impact sled at WSU. Contact forces measured at the levels of shoulder, thorax, abdomen and pelvis were used as response variables to validate the model. Additionally, a cadaveric test involving the deployment of a generic side airbag was also used to check the validity of the model. Model prediction of accelerations of the shoulder matched well against those measured experimentally. The role of the shoulder in side impact protection and the reduction of injury to the ribcage are discussed, based on model results.

Expression of beta-catenin and full-length APC protein in normal and neoplastic colonic tissues

Mutations of the APC gene are thought to be early events in the process of colorectal carcinogenesis. Although the complete function(s) of the APC gene product is not known, it has been shown that the APC protein interacts with beta-catenin in a multi-protein complex to regulate the level of expression of beta-catenin. Loss of normal APC protein function can lead to an accumulation of beta-catenin in the cytosol and the nucleus. Immunohistochemical methods were used to determine the relationship between APC and beta-catenin protein expression in human colonic tissues (150 normal, 9 hyperplastic, 58 adenomas and 83 carcinomas) and 12 paired samples of normal and cancer tissue in mouse colon. In all samples of normal human and mouse colonic mucosa and in human hyperplastic polyps both APC and beta-catenin immunoreactivity were present in colonocytes. APC expression was cytoplasmic, with maximal immunoreactivity in the goblet cells. beta-Catenin expression was predominantly localized to the plasma membrane, with no nuclear immunoreactivity. APC immunoreactivity was absent in all of the mouse adenocarcinomas and 83% of the human colon cancers. All of the human and mouse carcinomas had nuclear and cytoplasmic beta-catenin expression. In contrast, only 29% of the 58 colonic adenomas were completely negative for APC immunoreactivity. Regardless of the presence or absence of APC, all of the adenomas had cytoplasmic and nuclear beta-catenin immunoreactivity. Many colonic adenomas retain expression of full-length APC protein whereas it is usually lost in colorectal cancers. Regardless of the status of APC protein expression, beta-catenin protein was found in the cytoplasm and nucleus of all neoplastic colonic mucosa. The dissociation between loss of expression of APC and accumulation of beta-catenin in the nucleus suggests that inactivation of both alleles of the APC gene may not be required for beta-catenin nuclear accumulation in colonic adenomas.

Involvement of two groups in reversal of the bathochromic shift of pharaonis phoborhodopsin by chloride at low pH

Pharaonis phoborhodopsin (ppR; or pharaonis sensory rhodopsin II, psRII) is a photophobic receptor of the halobacterium Natronobacterium pharaonis. Its lambdamax is at 496 nm, but upon acidification in the absence of chloride, lambdamax shifted to 522 nm. This bathochromic shift is thought to be caused by the protonation of Asp75, which corresponds to Asp85 of bacteriorhodopsin (bR). The D75N mutant, in which Asp75 was replaced by Asn, had its lambdamax at approximately 520 nm, supporting this mechanism for the bathochromic shift. A titration of the shift yielded a pKa of 3.5 for Asp75. In the presence of chloride, the spectral shifts were different: with a decrease in pH, a bathochromic shift was first observed, followed by a hypsochromic shift on further acidification. This was interpreted as: the disappearance of a negative charge by the protonation of Asp75 was compensated by the binding of chloride, but it is worthy to note that the binding requires the protonation of another proton-associable group other than Asp75. This is supported by the observation that in the presence of chloride, upon acidification, the lambdamax of D75N even showed a blue shift, showing that the protonation of a proton-associable group (pKa = 1.2) leads to the chloride binding that gives rise to a blue shift.

Review on the physical growth in primates

J.M. Tanner concluded in 1962 that the growth velocity curve in body weight shows two peaks in primates but only one peak in the other mammals, and that the first peak in primates corresponds phylogenetically to the peak in the other mammals. Many reports on the physical growth of primates have been accumulated in the past 70 years. Using some of them as a basis, the author illustrated the normative velocity curves (increment curves) of the weight of monkeys, chimpanzees and humans, and reconsidered Tanner's conclusion. However, there are still some as yet obscure aspects to be interpreted in future.

Labdane-type diterpenes and a nordrimane-type sesquiterpene from the stem bark of Thuja standishii

Two new labdane-type diterpene aldehydes, 15-oxolabda-8(17),11(Z), 13(E)-trien-19-oic acid (1) and 15-oxolabda-8(17),11(Z), 13(Z)-trien-19-oic acid (2), and a new nordrimane-type sesquiterpene, 12-oxo-11-nordrim-8-en-14-oic acid (3), along with a known diterpene, 15-nor-14-oxolabda-8(17),12(E)-dien-19-oic acid (4), were isolated from the stem bark of Thuja standishii. The structures of 1-3 were established by spectroscopic methods.

Nucleolin as the earliest target molecule of autoantibodies produced in MRL/lpr lupus-prone mice

To elucidate the autoantigen against which autoantibodies are produced in the earliest phase of the disease process of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), serum samples were collected individually and serially from 10 NZB/NZW F1 and 10 MRL/lpr mice. Using immunoblots with mouse thymoma cell (EL-4) lysates as substrates, all mice were found to generate autoantibody against an either 150-kDa, 110-kDa, 75-kDa, or 55-kDa molecule in as early as 4 weeks. Anti-DNA antibodies occurred almost at the same time or after those against these four molecules. The number of antigens reactive with autoantibodies in immunoblots increased gradually with age. Antibodies against histone molecules were produced after 8 weeks of age. Among the four antigens, the 110-kDa molecule was identified as nucleolin, which is an abundant nucleolar phosphoprotein. Nucleolin binds DNA, RNA, and nucleic acid-binding proteins such as histone H1. Nucleolin is a target of granzyme A of cytotoxic T cells, and autoantibodies against it are found in sera from patients with SLE as well as from those with various viral infections. These results indicate that nucleolin is one of the immunodominant molecules that break down self-tolerance and initiate autoantibody-spreading in a mouse model of SLE.

Local and chronic application of PTH accelerates tooth movement in rats

We previously reported that whereas systemic continuous infusion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) accelerated orthodontic tooth movement, systemic but intermittent injection of PTH did not increase the rate of tooth movement. Analysis of these data suggested that continuous administration of PTH could be applicable for orthodontic therapy. In the present study, we investigated whether local and chronic application of PTH(1-34) would accelerate orthodontic tooth movement. To increase the residence time of PTH in the injected area, we used methylcellulose (MC) gel (2% W/V) for a slow-release formulation of PTH. MC gel containing PTH (PTH-MC) continuously released biologically active PTH into the acceptor medium for more than 72 hrs in vitro. When male rats received a local injection of PTH-MC into the subperiosteum in the mesio-palatal region of the maxillary first molar (M1) every other day, M1 movement, which was mesially drawn by an orthodontic coil spring attached to the maxillary incisors, was accelerated in a dose-dependent manner. PTH-MC injection at 1 microg/400 g body weight caused a 1.6-fold increase in the rate of tooth movement. The acceleration of tooth movement by PTH-MC injection was marked on days 6, 9, and 12. Local injection of PTH dissolved in saline without MC did not significantly accelerate tooth movement on day 6 or later. Histological examination revealed active osteoclastic bone resorption and a widened periodontal space on the compression side of the periodontal tissue in the PTH-MC-injected rats. These results suggest that local injection of PTH in a slow-release formulation is applicable to orthodontic therapy.

Hedgehog proteins stimulate chondrogenic cell differentiation and cartilage formation

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) and Indian hedgehog (Ihh) are important regulators of skeletogenesis, but their roles in this complex multistep process are not fully understood. Recent studies have suggested that the proteins participate in the differentiation of chondrogenic precursor cells into chondrocytes. In the present study, we have tested this possibility more directly. We found that implantation of dermal fibroblasts expressing hedgehog proteins into nude mice induces ectopic cartilage and bone formation. Immunohistological and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses revealed that the ectopic tissues derived largely if not exclusively from host cells. We found also that treatment of clonal prechondrogenic RMD-1 and ATDC5 cells in culture with Ihh or recombinant amino half of Shh (recombinant N-terminal portion of Shh [rShh-N]) induced their differentiation into chondrocytes, as revealed by cytoarchitectural changes, Alcian blue staining and proteoglycan synthesis. Induction of RMD-1 cell differentiation by Ihh or rShh-N was synergistically enhanced by cotreatment with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) but was blocked by cotreatment with fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2). Our findings indicate that hedgehog proteins have the ability to promote differentiation of chondrogenic precursor cells and that their action in this process can be influenced and modified by synergistic or antagonist cofactors.

Pig cloning by microinjection of fetal fibroblast nuclei

Pig cloning will have a marked impact on the optimization of meat production and xenotransplantation. To clone pigs from differentiated cells, we microinjected the nuclei of porcine (Sus scrofa) fetal fibroblasts into enucleated oocytes, and development was induced by electroactivation. The transfer of 110 cloned embryos to four surrogate mothers produced an apparently normal female piglet. The clonal provenance of the piglet was indicated by her coat color and confirmed by DNA microsatellite analysis.

Does prolonged exercise alter diet-induced thermogenesis?

Diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) is mainly an insulin-mediated response and the result of fat and glycogen synthesis. We investigated DIT at rest and after exercise to clarify the mechanism of exercise-induced changes in DIT in 6 healthy men (mean age 36 +/- 16 years). Subjects exercised for 1 h at 58% of maximal O2 consumption on a bicycle ergometer and then rested for 8 h sitting in a comfortable chair (exercise experiment). On a different day, subjects rested for 8 h without preceding exercising (non-exercise experiment). At 12.30 h, the subjects were given their second meal. DIT to individual meal did not differ significantly between the exercise and non-exercise days. Increased insulin sensitivity and increased free fatty acid oxidation by exercise may facilitate the conversion of glucose to glycogen in muscle. On the other hand, insulin secretion expressed as the ratio of plasma levels of insulin to glucose after the meal was significantly decreased in the exercise experiment (p < 0.05). Study of heart rate variability showed that sympathetic tone, a primary hormonal determinant of glucose metabolism during exercise, was increased and parasympathetic tone was decreased during the recovery period in the exercise experiment (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that changes in DIT are affected by many factors and may be related to the balance between these counteracting factors.

A case of anaphylactoid purpura with multiple blister formation: possible pathophysiological role of gelatinase (MMP-9)

A 10-year-old Japanese male with multiple blister formation and palpable purpura in the course of anaphylactoid purpura is described. Histologically, the lesions showed leukocytoclastic vasculitis in the upper dermis with subepidermal clefts. Blister fluid showed matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and MMP-9 gelantinolytic activities using zymography. These enzymatic reactions, especially that involving MMP-9 derived from polymorphonuclear leukocytes, might play an important role in the pathophysiology of this condition.

Design of fusogenic liposomes using a poly(ethylene glycol) derivative having amino groups

As a novel fusogenic liposome, we designed liposomes modified with poly(glycidol) having beta-alanine residues, which is a poly(ethylene glycol) derivative with positively charged groups. The polymer-modified liposomes of egg yolk phosphatidylcholine (EYPC) and dioleoylphosphatidylethanolamine (DOPE) were prepared by reverse phase evaporation. Fusion of the polymer-modified liposomes with anionic liposomes consisting of phosphatidic acid and DOPE was investigated. Fusion ability of the polymer-modified liposomes increased with increasing amount of the polymer fixed on the liposome. Also, inclusion of DOPE was necessary for the generation of the fusion ability of the polymer-modified liposomes. CV1 cells treated with the polymer-modified DOPE/EYPC liposomes containing calcein displayed diffuse fluorescence, suggesting that calcein was introduced into the cytoplasm. In contrast, only punctual fluorescence was observed in the cells treated with the polymer-modified EYPC liposomes containing calcein, indicating that calcein remained in the endosome and/or lysosome. In addition, COS1 cells were transfected efficiently by treatment with the polymer-modified EYPC/DOPE liposomes containing pSV2cat plasmid, whereas the transfection was not induced by treatment with the polymer-modified EYPC liposomes. Close correlation between fusion ability of the polymer-modified liposomes and their ability to deliver their contents to the cytoplasm implies that membrane fusion plays an important role in the liposome-mediated cytoplasmic delivery.

Genes predisposing to autoimmunity augment constitutive major histocompatibility complex class II-associated presentation of the self-antigen IgG2a in vivo

The self-antigen IgG2ab is poorly presented to a gamma2ab 435-451-reactive I-Ad-restricted T-cell hybridoma unless available in high concentrations or targeted to Fcgamma- or complement receptors. Environmental factors, probably the extent of microbial challenge, profoundly influence the constitutive gamma2ab/I-Ad presentation in IgCHb, H-2d mice. Here we report also a strong genetic impact. Constitutive presentation was highly efficient in spleen and thymus of (NZB x BXSB)F1 mice, which inherit a predisposition to develop lupus. Presentation correlated with disease progression and the serum levels of IgG2ab and IgG2ab complement factor 3 complexes. The finding that constitutive presentation was by far most efficient in males indicated that it was augmented by the Y chromosome-linked autoimmune acceleration Yaa gene. In line with previous data for healthy mice, constitutive gamma2ab/I-Ad presentation was most pronounced in the adherent spleen cell fraction and improved by further enrichment for dendritic cells. Notably, however, whereas in normal mice the gamma2ab determinant was undetectable on B cells lacking surface IgG2ab, such B cells contributed considerably to constitutive presentation in (NZB x BXSB)F1 hybrids. Presumably this resulted from complement receptor-mediated internalization of IgG2ab-containing immune complexes formed in lupus. These data add to the evidence that B cells with self-reactive receptors, known to exist in the mature repertoire, may present non-cognate foreign antigen to anti-foreign helper T lymphocytes and thus differentiate into autoantibody-secreting cells, and might likewise account for the polyclonal B-cell activation characteristic of several autoimmune syndromes.

Purification and cloning of an apoptosis-inducing protein derived from fish infected with Anisakis simplex, a causative nematode of human anisakiasis

While investigating the effect of marine products on cell growth, we found that visceral extracts of Chub mackerel, an ocean fish, had a powerful and dose-dependent apoptosis-inducing effect on a variety of mammalian tumor cells. This activity was strikingly dependent on infection of the C. mackerel with the larval nematode, Anisakis simplex. After purification of the protein responsible for the apoptosis-inducing activity, we cloned the corresponding gene and found it to be a flavoprotein. This protein, termed apoptosis-inducing protein (AIP), was also found to possess an endoplasmic reticulum retention signal (C-terminal KDEL sequence) and H2O2-producing activity, indicating that we had isolated a novel reticuloplasimin with potent apoptosis-inducing activity. AIP was induced in fish only after infection with larval nematode and was localized to capsules that formed around larvae to prevent their migration to host tissues. Our results suggest that AIP may function to impede nematode infection.

Analysis of weak-anchoring effect in nematic liquid crystals

A generalized Rapini-Papoular-type anchoring energy formula [J. Phys. (Paris) Colloq. 30, C4-54 (1969)] with two coupling constants is established through a second-order spherical-harmonic expansion. Using this formula, we analyze the threshold and saturation properties of twisted nematic devices with unidirectional planar anchorage, assuming that the azimuthal and polar anchoring strengths are both finite and distinct from each other. We also discuss the voltage-controlled-twist effect [G. P. Bryan-Brown et al., Nature (London) 392, 365 (1998)]. It is shown that the predicted behavior is consistent with the experimental observations.

Transcription factor ERG variants and functional diversification of chondrocytes during limb long bone development

During limb development, chondrocytes located at the epiphyseal tip of long bone models give rise to articular tissue, whereas the more numerous chondrocytes in the shaft undergo maturation, hypertrophy, and mineralization and are replaced by bone cells. It is not understood how chondrocytes follow these alternative pathways to distinct fates and functions. In this study we describe the cloning of C-1-1, a novel variant of the ets transcription factor ch-ERG. C-1-1 lacks a short 27-amino acid segment located approximately 80 amino acids upstream of the ets DNA binding domain. We found that in chick embryo long bone anlagen, C-1-1 expression characterizes developing articular chondrocytes, whereas ch-ERG expression is particularly prominent in prehypertrophic chondrocytes in the growth plate. To analyze the function of C-1-1 and ch-ERG, viral vectors were used to constitutively express each factor in developing chick leg buds and cultured chondrocytes. We found that virally driven expression of C-1-1 maintained chondrocytes in a stable and immature phenotype, blocked their maturation into hypertrophic cells, and prevented the replacement of cartilage with bone. It also induced synthesis of tenascin-C, an extracellular matrix protein that is a unique product of developing articular chondrocytes. In contrast, virally driven expression of ch-ERG significantly stimulated chondrocyte maturation in culture, as indicated by increases in alkaline phosphatase activity and deposition of a mineralized matrix; however, it had modest effects in vivo. The data show that C-1-1 and ch-ERG have diverse biological properties and distinct expression patterns during skeletogenesis, and are part of molecular mechanisms by which limb chondrocytes follow alternative developmental pathways. C-1-1 is the first transcription factor identified to date that appears to be instrumental in the genesis and function of epiphyseal articular chondrocytes.

Molecular cloning of A1-ATPase gene from extremely halophilic archaeon Haloarcula japonica strain TR-1

The genes encoding A1-ATPase A- and B-subunits were cloned from Haloarcula japonica strain TR-1. Nucleotide sequencing analysis of the A1-ATPase gene revealed that the A- and B-subunits consisted of 586 and 473 amino acids, respectively. The deduced amino acid sequences of the A- and B-subunits of Ha. japonica showed high identities with those of Halobacterium salinarum and Haloferax volcanii. The consensus ATP-binding motif was found in the A-subunit.

Effects of three characteristic amino acid residues of pharaonis phoborhodopsin on the absorption maximum

Phoborhodopsin (pR or sensory rhodopsin II, sRII) or pharaonis phoborhodopsin (ppR or pharaonis sensory rhodopsin II, psRII) has a unique absorption maximum (lambda max) compared with three other archaeal rhodopsins: lambda max of pR or ppR at ca 500 nm and others at 560-590 nm. Alignment of amino acid sequences revealed three sites characteristic of the shorter wavelength-absorbing pigments. The amino acids of these three sites are conserved completely among archaeal rhodopsins having longer lambda max, and are different from those of pR or ppR. We replaced these amino acids of ppR with amino acids corresponding to those of bacteriorhodopsin, Val-108 to Met, Gly-130 to Ser and Thr-204 to Ala. The lambda max of V108M mutant was 502 nm with a slight redshift. G130S and T204A mutants had lambda max of 503 and 508 nm, respectively. Thus, each site contributes only a small effect to the color tuning. We then constructed three double mutants and one triple mutant. The opsin-shifts of these mutants suggest that Val-108 and Thr-204 or Gly-130 are synergistic, and that Gly-130 and Thr-204 work additively. Even in the triple mutant, the lambda max was 515 nm, an opsin-shift only ca 30% of the shift value from 500 to 560 nm. This means that there is another yet unidentified factor responsible for the color tuning.

Parathyroid hormone-related peptide is involved in protection against invasion of tooth germs by bone via promoting the differentiation of osteoclasts during tooth development

In order to elucidate the role of parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrP) in tooth development, we treated tooth germ explants of mouse molars with antisense phosphorothioate-oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) against PTHrP. Antisense ODN-treatment of the explants resulted in the invasion of the tooth germs by bone. The number of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)-positive cells around the tooth germs in antisense ODN-treated explants was much lower than that of the control explants. Electron microscopic examination suggested that the antisense ODN-treatment inhibited differentiation of osteoclasts. Treatment of the explants with bisphosphonate or vitamin K2, inhibitors of the differentiation of osteoclasts, induced the invasion by bone into the tooth germs as observed in the antisense ODN-treated explants. The results obtained suggest that PTHrP is involved in the mechanism protecting tooth germs from bone invasion by promoting the differentiation of osteoclasts around them.

In vitro and in vivo inhibition of activation induced T cell apoptosis by bucillamine

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism of autoimmune phenomena, occasionally seen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis treated with bucillamine (BUC) and D-penicillamine (D-Pen), by evaluating their effects on apoptosis of T cells induced by T cell receptor activation or dexamethasone.

METHODS

In vitro apoptosis was induced in a T cell hybridoma (SSP3.7) and a B cell line (WEHI 231) by activation of respective receptors or dexamethasone, in the presence or absence of BUC or D-Pen. In vivo apoptosis was induced in BALB/c mice by staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB), with or without BUC or D-Pen, and thymocytes were examined for it by FACS.

RESULTS

Stimulation with anti-CD3 and dexamethasone induced apoptosis in 72% and 71% of SSP3.7 cells, respectively. However, only 16% of SSP3.7 cells became apoptotic by anti-CD3 when BUC was added to the culture media. By contrast, 80% of SSP3.7 cells became apoptotic when stimulated by dexamethasone, even in the presence of BUC. BUC did not affect apoptosis of WEHI 231 cells induced by anti-IgM. Although SA981 (a metabolite of BUC) inhibited apoptosis of SSP3.7 cells induced by anti-CD3, D-Pen did not. BUC, SA981, or D-Pen did not significantly influence the level of interleukin 2 secretion stimulated by anti-CD3. In contrast, both BUC and D-Pen inhibited apoptosis of Vbeta8+ thymocytes induced in vivo by SEB superantigen. Neither BUC nor D-Pen significantly changed the number of CD4+CD8+ thymocytes in BALB/c mice injected with dexamethasone.

CONCLUSION

BUC decreased, while D-Pen did not, the apoptosis of T cells stimulated by anti-CD3 in vitro, although they both inhibited the deletion of immature thymocytes reactive with SEB in vivo. This may explain autoimmune phenomena sometimes seen during the treatment of rheumatic patients with these drugs.

Comparison of methotrexate resistance conferred by a mutated dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) cDNA in two different retroviral vectors

We previously reported the protection of hematopoietic cells from methotrexate (MTX) toxicity using an N2-based double copy vector containing serine 31 (S31)-mutated dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) (DC/SV6S31). To examine whether the use of SFG-based dicistronic vectors will lead to improvement in gene transfer over the DC/SV6 vector, we compared the protection provided by MTX to NIH3T3 cells and hematopoietic progenitor cells infected with these retroviral constructs containing the S31 variant DHFR cDNA. In NIH3T3 cells, the 50% effective dose values of MTX conferred by the SFG vector were 8-fold higher than those obtained with the DC/SV6 vector. DHFR mRNA levels were 22-fold and 38-fold higher than that seen for the DC/SV6 vector according to Northern blot and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, respectively. However, DHFR protein expression and DHFR enzyme activity were only 1.5-fold and 2-fold higher in the SFG vector, respectively, indicating that the mRNA from the SFG vector is translated less efficiently than the mRNA generated from the DC/SV6 vector. Furthermore, the degree of MTX protection conferred by each vector in both mouse and human hematopoietic cells was the same. These results indicate that the in vitro transduction efficiency and transgene expression of human DHFR in hematopoietic progenitor cells is equally conferred by both vectors.

Analysis of compression-induced chiral phase separation in Langmuir monolayers

We analyze the compression-induced chiral phase separation (CPS) in Langmuir films, taking into account the elastic theory of liquid crystals and the mixing energy of the two constituent enantiomers. The difference between the Selinger-Wang-Bruinsma-Knobler theory [J. V. Selinger et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 70, 1139 (1993)] and our treatment is that we do not introduce the concentration-square-gradient term in the free energy, but alternatively take into account a line tension at CPS boundaries. Our model predicts that a two-domain pattern with opposite chiralities is energy minimized, but a multistripe pattern with two alternate constant chiralities is also possible, though metastable. This offers a tentative explanation for the CPS pattern consisting of homogeneously oriented stripes with diverse widths observed by Eckhardt et al. [Nature (London) 362, 614 (1993)].

Charge Measurement in the Modified Maxwell Displacement Current Method

A modified Maxwell displacement current (MDC) measurement is described. The distance between water surface and a suspended electrode is changed sinusoidally at an angular frequency omega=omega(t), hence the MDC and the induced charge on the suspended electrode are modulated. The dc MDC current and the induced charge could be detected simultaneously and independently. This simplifies considerably charge measurements and will be helpful in the study of monolayers, e.g., the determination of the dipole moment. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.

The mitochondrial DNA of Dictyostelium discoideum: complete sequence, gene content and genome organization

We present an overview of the gene content and organization of the mitochondrial genome of Dictyostelium discoideum. The mitochondria genome consists of 55,564 bp with an A + T content of 72.6%. The identified genes include those for two ribosomal RNAs (rn1 and rns), 18 tRNAs, ten subunits of the NADH dehydrogenase complex (nad1, 2, 3, 4, 4L, 5, 6, 7, 9 and 11), apocytochrome b (cytb), three subunits of the cytochrome oxidase (cox1/2 and 3), four subunits of the ATP synthase complex (atp1, 6, 8 and 9), 15 ribosomal proteins, and five other ORFs, excluding intronic ORFs. Notable features of D. discoideum mtDNA include the following. (1) All genes are encoded on the same strand of the DNA and a universal genetic code is used. (2) The cox1 gene has no termination codon and is fused to the downstream cox2 gene. The 13 genes for ribosomal proteins and four ORF genes form a cluster 15.4 kb long with several gene overlaps. (3) The number of tRNAs encoded in the genome is not sufficient to support the synthesis of mitochondrial protein. (4) In total, five group I introns reside in rnl and cox1/2, and three of those in cox1/2 contain four free-standing ORFs. We compare the genome to other sequenced mitochondrial genomes, particularly that of Acanthamoeba castellanii.

Cbfa1 is a positive regulatory factor in chondrocyte maturation

Cbfa1 is a transcription factor that belongs to the runt domain gene family. Cbfa1-deficient mice showed a complete lack of bone formation due to the maturational arrest of osteoblasts, demonstrating that Cbfa1 is an essential factor for osteoblast differentiation. Further, chondrocyte maturation was severely disturbed in Cbfa1-deficient mice. In this study, we examined the possibility that Cbfa1 is also involved in the regulation of chondrocyte differentiation. mRNAs for both Cbfa1 isotypes, type I Cbfa1 (Pebp2alphaA/Cbfa1) and type II Cbfa1 (Osf2/Cbfa1 or til-1), which are different in N-terminal domain, were expressed in terminal hypertrophic chondrocytes as well as osteoblasts. In addition, mRNA for type I Cbfa1 was expressed in other hypertrophic chondrocytes and prehypertrophic chondropcytes. In a chondrogenic cell line, ATDC5, the expression of type I Cbfa1 was elevated prior to differentiation to the hypertrophic phenotype, which is characterized by type X collagen expression. Treatment with antisense oligonucleotides for type I Cbfa1 severely reduced type X collagen expression in ATDC5 cells. Retrovirally forced expression of either type I or type II Cbfa1 in chick immature chondrocytes induced type X collagen and MMP13 expression, alkaline phosphatase activity, and extensive cartilage-matrix mineralization. These results indicate that Cbfa1 is an important regulatory factor in chondrocyte maturation.

The contribution of residual renal function to overall nutritional status in chronic haemodialysis patients

BACKGROUND

The benefits of residual renal function (RRF) in peritoneal dialysis patients have been described frequently. However, previous reports have shown that RRF diminished faster in haemodialysis (HD) patients than in peritoneal dialysis patients, and in most of the studies in HD patients, RRF was ignored. In this study, the RRF in chronic HD patients was studied to assess its impact on patients' nutritional status.

METHODS

In 41 chronic HD patients with at least a 2-year history of HD treatment, RRF was determined by a urine collection for 7 consecutive days. Nutritional parameters, such as percentage body fat, fat-free mass index, serum albumin concentration and normalized protein catabolic rate, were also measured.

RESULTS

In all 41 patients, mean weekly total Kt/V urea was 4.88 and renal Kt/V urea was 0.65. RRF was well correlated with serum albumin concentration, but dialysis Kt/V urea was not. One year after the start of this study, RRF and nutritional indices were re-examined and patients were classified into two groups: with RRF, preserved residual renal diuresis over 200 ml/day (mean, 720 ml; range, 230-1640 ml), N=23; and without RRF, persistent anuria (mean, 51 ml; range, 0-190 ml), N=18. At the start of this study, the mean serum albumin concentration and mean normalized protein catabolic rate in patients with RRF were 3.84 g/dl and 1.16 g/kg/day, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in patients without RRF (P=0.02 and P=0.0002, respectively), despite total (renal+dialysis) Kt/V urea being equal in both groups. During the 1-year study period, there was no significant change in total Kt/V urea in either group. Mean serum albumin concentration increased to 4.05 g/dl in patients with RRF, but did not change significantly (from 3.66 to 3.62 g/dl) in patients without RRF. The same trend was observed in all other parameters.

CONCLUSION

Over half of our HD patients had sufficient RRF. RRF itself may have a beneficial effect on nutritional parameters, and it is important to determine RRF over time, even in chronic HD patients.

Walnuts lower serum cholesterol in Japanese men and women

Recent studies have shown that incorporating moderate quantities of walnuts into the recommended cholesterol-lowering diet in the U.S. decreased serum concentrations of total cholesterol in normal American men. To explore whether walnut consumption would also prove effective as part of the Japanese diet, we studied the effects of walnut consumption on serum lipids and blood pressure in Japanese subjects. We randomly assigned 20 men and 20 women to two mixed natural diets, each to be consumed for 4 wk in a crossover design. Both diets conformed to the average Japanese diet (reference diet) and contained identical foods and macronutrients, except that 12.5% of the energy of the walnut diet was derived from walnuts (43-57 g/d) (offset by lesser amounts of fatty foods, meat and visible fat). Total cholesterol concentration was 0.16 mmol/L lower for men (P = 0.05) and 0.21 mmol/L lower for women (P<0.01) when they consumed the walnut diet than when they consumed the reference diet. The LDL cholesterol concentrations were 0.18 mmol/L lower for men (P = 0.13) and 0.22 mmol/L lower for women (P<0.01) when they consumed the walnut diet. The ratio of LDL cholesterol to HDL cholesterol and the apolipoprotein B concentration were also lowered by the walnut diet (P<0.05). Blood pressures did not differ between the walnut and reference diet periods. Incorporating moderate quantities of walnuts into the average Japanese diet while maintaining the intake of total dietary fat and energy decreases serum total cholesterol concentrations and favorably modifies the lipoprotein profile in Japanese, particularly in women.

CM3, one of the wheat alpha-amylase inhibitor subunits, and binding of IgE in sera from Japanese with atopic dermatitis related to wheat

The purpose of the present study was to determine whether wheat alpha-amylase inhibitor subunits bind IgE sera from Japanese with atopic dermatitis (AD) related to wheat. IgE in sera from eight out of the 11 patients with RAST value of 3 or 4 against wheat-bound salt-soluble proteins of wheat and the alpha-amylase inhibitor proteins separated by gel filtration chromatography. The subunits of tetrameric alpha-amylase inhibitor, CM2, CM3 and CM16 (molecular weight approximately 14 kd), known to be major allergens for baker's asthma, were purified. Then the binding activity to IgE sera from the AD patients was examined by immunoblotting. The IgE sera bound only to CM3, not to CM2 and CM16. These results suggest that CM3 may be involved in both atopic dermatitis and baker's asthma.

Actions of hedgehog proteins on skeletal cells

Recent advances in developmental and molecular biology during embryogenesis and organogenesis have provided new insights into the mechanism of bone formation. Members of the hedgehog gene family were initially characterized as patterning factors in embryonic development, but recently they have been shown to regulate skeletal formation in vertebrates. The amino terminal fragment of Sonic hedgehog (Shh-N), which is an active domain of Shh, has the ability to induce ectopic cartilage and bone formation in vivo. Shh-N stimulates chondrogenic differentiation in cultures of chondrogenic cell line cells in vitro and inhibits chondrogenesis in primary limb bud cells. These findings suggest that the regulation of chondrogenesis by hedgehog proteins depends on the cell populations being studied. Indian hedgehog (Ihh) is prominently expressed in developing cartilage. Ectopic expression of Ihh decreases type X collagen expression and induces the up-regulation of parathyroid hormone-related peptide (PTHrp) gene expression in perichondrium cells. A negative feedback loop consisting of Ihh and PTHrp, induced by Ihh, appears to regulate the rate of chondrocyte maturation. The direct actions of Shh and Ihh on stimulation of osteoblast differentiation are evidenced by the findings that these factors stimulate alkaline phosphatase activity in cultures of pluripotent mesenchymal cell line cells and osteoblastic cells and that these cells express putative receptors of hedgehog proteins. In conclusion, hedgehog proteins seem to be significantly involved in skeletal formation through multiple actions on chondrogenic mesenchymal cells, chondrocytes, and osteogenic cells.

Protection of murine lupus by the Ead transgene is MHC haplotype-dependent

A high-level expression of a transgene, Ead, encoding the I-Ed alpha-chain is very effective in protection against murine lupus. To investigate the specific contribution of select H-2 haplotypes on the Ead transgene-mediated disease-suppressing effect, we generated H-2 congenic (NZB x BXSB)F1 hybrid mice bearing either H-2b/b, H-2d/b, or H-2d/d haplotype, and compared the transgene-mediated protective effect on the clinical development (autoantibody production and glomerulonephritis) of lupus in these F1 hybrids. The level of protection was most remarkable in mice bearing the I-E- H-2b/b haplotype but was only minimal in I-E+ H-2d/d F1 hybrids. Additional analysis demonstrated a marked suppression of lupus in I-E+ H-2k/k (MRL x BXSB)F1 hybrid mice, indicating that the transgene is able to suppress autoimmune responses even in mice already expressing I-E molecules at a homozygous level. Our results indicate that the level of the transgene-mediated protection is dependent on the host H-2 haplotype. This suggests that the autoimmune suppressive activity of the Ead transgene is likely to be determined through the interaction of the transgene product with the host MHC class II molecules, providing new insight into the role of MHC in lupus-like autoimmunity.