Antineoplastic therapy combined with whole brain radiation compared with whole brain radiation alone for brain metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The standard treatment for brain metastases is whole brain radiation, but the medium survival is about 3-10 months and hadn't be improved for years.

AIM

This study was to evaluate the effect of antineoplastic therapy combined with whole brain radiation for brain metastases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, China Journal Full Text Database and references of the included studies up to May 2011. Randomized controlled trials involving antineoplastic combined with whole brain radiation compare with whole brain radiation alone for brain metastases were analysed. Study selection, data collection and quality assessment of studies were performed by two individual reviewers according to the Cochrane Handbook for systematic reviews of interventions 5.0.2. Statistic analyses were calculated using RevMan5.0.17 software. 9 randomized controlled trails, a total of 1582 patients were included.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in overall survival, six to twenty-four months survival rate and death from central nervous system (CNS) cause, only the objective response rate was statistically higher in the combined group. (RR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.97; p = 0.009) Subgroup analysis of lung cancer got the same result, except that death from central nervous system (CNS) cause was higher in the combined therapy group, it was statistical significant (RR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.53, 0.93; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The benefit of antineoplastic combined with whole brain radiation for brain metastases was not concerned, either in the brain metastases from unselected primary tumors or lung cancer.

Myostatin induces mitochondrial metabolic alteration and typical apoptosis in cancer cells

Myostatin, a member of the transforming growth factor-β superfamily, regulates the glucose metabolism of muscle cells, while dysregulated myostatin activity is associated with a number of metabolic disorders, including muscle cachexia, obesity and type II diabetes. We observed that myostatin induced significant mitochondrial metabolic alterations and prolonged exposure of myostatin induced mitochondria-dependent apoptosis in cancer cells addicted to glycolysis. To address the underlying mechanism, we found that the protein levels of Hexokinase II (HKII) and voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1), two key regulators of glucose metabolisms as well as metabolic stress-induced apoptosis, were negatively correlated. In particular, VDAC1 was dramatically upregulated in cells that are sensitive to myostatin treatment whereas HKII was downregulated and dissociated from mitochondria. Myostatin promoted the translocation of Bax from cytosol to mitochondria, and knockdown of VDAC1 inhibited myostatin-induced Bax translocation and apoptosis. These apoptotic changes can be partially rescued by repletion of ATP, or by ectopic expression of HKII, suggesting that perturbation of mitochondrial metabolism is causally linked with subsequent apoptosis. Our findings reveal novel function of myostatin in regulating mitochondrial metabolism and apoptosis in cancer cells.

Resveratrol attenuates hydrogen peroxide-induced apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

  Vascular endothelium injury caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays an initial role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic compound, is well known to possess a variety of cardioprotective activities. In this study we first investigated the effects of resveratrol against apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in vitro and the possible mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

HUVECs were pre-incubated with resveratrol (0.5-10 microM) for 120 min, and then challenged with 100 microM H2O2 for 30 min. The cell viability was evaluated by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and the reduced glutathione (GSH) contents were measured spectrophotometrically by using commercially available kits. The apoptosis of HUVECs was detected by Hoechst 33258 and Annexin-V/PI staining by flow cytometry staining using Fluorescence microscope. We also measured the mitochondrial membrane potential with the fluorescent probe JC-1 through Fluorescence microscope.

RESULTS

The study showed that incubation with resveratrol caused significant increase of the viability of HUVECs and the SOD activities and GSH contents, and decrease of cell apoptosis induced by H2O2, which was accompanied with the restoration of the mitochondrial membrane potential.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggested that resveratrol protected HUVECs against apoptosis induced by H2O2 through enhancing the antioxidant defenses, and inhibiting the degression of the mitochondrial membrane potential.  

Abstract P4-03-12: diagnostic value and clinical significance of integrin αvβ3 in breast mass

Background: Integrins are cell adhesion molecules that widely exists in cell surface, it is a hetero-dimeric protein bound non-covalently by α, β subunit. It plays the role of mediation during interaction of the αvβ3 and the corresponding receptor in signal transduction pathway, integrin αvβ3 is much richer in the surface of neovascular endothelial cells and tumor cells, while poor in the blood vessels and normal tissues. Therefore, it plays an important role in a variety of malignant tumors of the occurrence, development and metastasis processes. We find tumors constituted with neovascularization earlier by marker of integrin αvβ3.

Materials & Methods: We give patients who consider as breast mass intravenous injection of99mTc-3PRGD2 as a tracer preoperatively by SPECT/CT imaging and treat with surgery within a week, then make pathological examination with tumor tissues removed by needle biopsy. Then we make a retrospective analysis and evaluation of patients scanned completely by qualitative and semi-quantitative methods. All patients have signed the informed consent form before the test, together with the recognition of the Ethics Committee.

Results: From December 2011 to May 2012, a total of 245 patients were scanned and operated with clear paraffin pathological diagnosis by intravenous injection of99mTc −3PRGD2. Among them, a total of 106 patients (167 developing lesions) were positive with radionuclide imaging results, 139 patients were negative. Diseases of 106 patients are divided into four series: breast cancer, inflammation mastitis, phyllodes tumor and partly with fibroadenoma. They have in common that there is a clear flow signal in and around lesions by color Doppler ultrasound.

Discussion: After study on 245 patients, we created a molecular imaging tool to show expression of integration αvβ3 in order to assess tumor angiogenesis. Integrin αvβ3 plays an important role in physiological and pathological processes of malignant tumor, such as inflammation, tumor angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis etc. Therefore, its high expression is easy to find in cancer, mastitis, most of the phyllodes tumor and part of fiber adenoma with peripheral lesions. For patients with clear imaging, we make comprehensive analysis based on their ultrasound, mammography, MRI or CT results, which can generally contributes to the early diagnosis of disease in clinical. The detection of sentinel lymph node should be avoided for the patients with axillary lymph node imaging, who are clearly diagnosed as breast carcinoma with axillary lymph node metastases. These peptides are not only tumor receptor-targeted imaging agents with potential clinical value, but also laid a solid foundation for further development of receptor-targeted radionuclide therapy to solid tumors. The method marked with high expression of integrin αvβ3 in the tumor vascular endothelial cells by99mTc-3PRGD2 and SPECT/CT imaging mode has a broad prospect in the early diagnosis of tumor, lesion detection and efficacy evaluation. In the future, we may also find the new imaging agent with more accuracy and specificity. We believe that there will be more and more breast cancer patients benefit from the technology development of ECT/CT examination.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2012;72(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-03-12.

Xanthones from mangosteen extracts as natural chemopreventive agents: potential anticancer drugs

Despite decades of research, the treatment and management of malignant tumors still remain a formidable challenge for public health. New strategies for cancer treatment are being developed, and one of the most promising treatment strategies involves the application of chemopreventive agents. The search for novel and effective cancer chemopreventive agents has led to the identification of various naturally occurring compounds. Xanthones, from the pericarp, whole fruit, heartwood, and leaf of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana Linn., GML), are known to possess a wide spectrum of pharmacologic properties, including antioxidant, anti- tumor, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral activities. The potential chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic activities of xanthones have been demonstrated in different stages of carcinogenesis (initiation, promotion, and progression) and are known to control cell division and growth, apoptosis, inflammation, and metastasis. Multiple lines of evidence from numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have confirmed that xanthones inhibit proliferation of a wide range of human tumor cell types by modulating various targets and signaling transduction pathways. Here we provide a concise and comprehensive review of preclinical data and assess the observed anticancer effects of xanthones, supporting its remarkable potential as an anticancer agent.

Periodontal tissue engineering with stem cells from the periodontal ligament of human retained deciduous teeth

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Periodontal ligament stem cells from human permanent teeth (PePDLSCs) have been investigated extensively in periodontal tissue engineering and regeneration. However, little knowledge is available on the periodontal ligament stem cells from human retained deciduous teeth (DePDLSCs). This study evaluated the potential of DePDLSCs in periodontal tissue regeneration.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

DePDLSCs were isolated and purified by limited dilution. The characteristics of DePDLSCs were evaluated and compared with PePDLSCs both in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

DePDLSCs presented a higher proliferation rate and colony-forming capacity than PePDLSCs in vitro. During the osteogenic induction, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, mineralized matrix formation and expression of mineralization-related genes, including runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), ALP, collagen type I (COLI) and osteocalcin (OCN) were significantly enhanced in DePDLSCs compared with PePDLSCs. Furthermore, DePDLSC cell sheets showed a stronger synthesis of collagen type I in the extracellular matrix than did PePDLSC cell sheets. After in vivo transplantation, DePDLSC cell sheets recombined with human dentin blocks were able to generate new cementum/periodontal ligament-like tissues.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that DePDLSCs can be used as a promising candidate for periodontal tissue engineering.

Defects in room-temperature ferromagnetic Cu-doped ZnO films probed by x-ray absorption spectroscopy

We report a comprehensive study of the defects in room-temperature ferromagnetic (RTFM) Cu-doped ZnO thin films using x-ray absorption spectroscopy. The films are doped with 2 at.% Cu, and are prepared by reactive magnetron sputtering (RMS) and pulsed laser deposition (PLD), respectively. The results reveal unambiguously that atomic point defects exist in these RTFM thin films. The valence states of the Cu ions in both films are 2(+). In the film prepared by PLD, the oxygen vacancies (V(O)) form around both Zn ions and Cu ions in the hexagonal wurtzite structure. Upon annealing of the film in O(2), the V(O) population reduces and so does the RTFM. In the film prepared by RMS, the V(O)s around Cu ions are not detected, and the V(O) population around Zn ions is also smaller than in the PLD-prepared film. However, zinc vacancies (V(Zn)) are evidenced. Given the low doping level of spin-carrying Cu ions, these results provide strong support for defect-mediated ferromagnetism in Cu-doped ZnO thin films.

Genome-wide analysis of immunophilin FKBP genes and expression patterns in Zea mays

The receptors for the immunosuppression drugs FK506 and rapamycin are called FKBPs (FK506-binding proteins). FKBPs comprise a large family; they are found in many species, including bacteria, fungi, animals, and plants. As a class of peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase enzymes, the FKBP genes have been the focus of recent studies on plant stress tolerance and immunology. We identified and analyzed gene families encoding these proteins in maize using computational and molecular biology approaches. Thirty genes were found to encode putative FKBPs according to their FK506-binding domain. The FKBP genes can be classified into single domain and multiple domain members based on the number of the domains. By analysis of the physical locations, the 30 FKBP genes were found to be widely distributed on 10 chromosomes. After analysis of the FKBP phylogenetic tree in the maize genome, we found that the 30 genes revealed two major clades. Gene duplication played a major role in the evolution of FKBP genes, which suggests that the FKBP genes in maize have a pattern significantly different from that of these genes in rice. Based on semi-quantitative RT-PCR, we found that the 30 FKBPs were expressed differently in various tissues in maize, which suggests that FKBP genes play different roles in each tissue. Several FKBPs were expressed at higher levels in roots, indicating that these genes in maize may have similar or overlapping functions.

Transcatheter closure of congenital perimembranous ventricular septal defect in children using symmetric occluders: an 8-year multiinstitutional experience

BACKGROUND

Perimembranous ventricular septal defects (pmVSDs) are one of the most common forms of congenital cardiac malformation in children. Results of transcatheter pmVSD closure remain debatable, prompting the need for further evaluation with regard to the safety and efficacy of this procedure. The aim of the study was to analyze the safety, efficacy, and long-term follow-up data associated with transcatheter closure of pmVSDs in children using symmetric occluders.

METHODS

From December 2002 to October 2011, 525 children with pmVSDs between 2 and 12 years of age underwent transcatheter closure at three major heart centers in northwest China with symmetric pmVSD occluders. All patients were followed up until October 2011 with electrocardiogram and transthoracic echocardiography. Adverse events were recorded and evaluated.

RESULTS

There were 252 male and 273 female patients with an average weight of 21.5 kg. The mean age at the time of transcatheter closure was 5.6 years, and the average ratio of pulmonic to systemic blood flow was 2.5. Transcatheter intervention was successfully performed in 502 patients (95.6%). The median device size implanted was 6.5 mm (range, 4 to 18 mm). During a median 45-month follow-up period, no mortality occurred. A total of three major adverse events (0.6%) were reported; two were valve-related. Meanwhile, 104 minor adverse events were detected during the entire follow-up period. All individuals experiencing major adverse events were younger than 3 years of age. The incidence of major adverse events in patients younger than 3 years old was significantly higher than that of patients older than 3 years old (3.75% versus 0.00%; Fisher's exact test p=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Data from the current study suggest that transcatheter pmVSD closure using symmetric occluders displayed an excellent success rate and long-term follow-up results. The transcatheter approach provides a less-invasive alternative to open surgery and displays some promise in the treatment of pmVSDs in certain patient populations.

Genome-wide identification, classification, and analysis of two-component signal system genes in maize

Cytokinins play many vital roles in plant development and physiology. In plants, cytokinin signals are sensed and transduced by the two-component signal system. This signaling cascade is typically composed of three proteins: a sensory histidine kinase, a histidine phosphotransfer protein, and a response regulator. Through a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the maize (Zea mays) genome, 48 genes were identified, including 11 ZmHKs, 9 ZmHPs, and 28 ZmRRs (21 A-type ZmRRs and 7 B-type ZmRRs). Using maize genome sequence databases, we analyzed conserved protein motifs and established phylogenetic relationships based on gene structure, homology, and chromosomal location. The duplication of these two-component system genes in the maize genome corresponded to the clusters of these genes in the phylogenetic trees. Sequence analysis of the duplicate genes demonstrated that one gene may be in gene duplication, and that there was significant variation in the evolutionary history of the different gene families. We assessed the expression levels of all ZmRRs in the leaves and roots by reverse transcription PCR; they were all found to be active. Our results provide a foundation for functional and evolutionary studies on maize two-component signal system proteins.

Pharmacokinetics of the nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor efavirenz among HIV-infected Ugandans

BACKGROUND

Pharmacokinetic variability of the nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor efavirenz has been documented, and high variation in trough concentrations or clearance has been found to be a risk for virological failure. Africans population exhibits greater variability in efavirenz concentrations than other ethnic groups, and so a better understanding of the pharmacokinetics of the drug is needed in this population. This study characterized efavirenz pharmacokinetics in HIV-infected Ugandans.

METHODS

Efavirenz plasma concentrations were obtained for 66 HIV-infected Ugandans initiating efavirenz- based regimens, with blood samples collected at eight time-points over 24 h on day 1 of treatment, and at a further eight time-points on day 14. Noncompartmental analysis was used to describe the pharmacokinetics of efavirenz.

RESULTS

The mean steady-state minimum plasma concentration (C(min) ) of efavirenz was 2.9 µg/mL, the mean area under the curve (AUC) was 278.5 h µg/mL, and mean efavirenz clearance was 7.4 L/h. Although overall mean clearance did not change over the 2 weeks, 41.9% of participants showed an average 95.8% increase in clearance. On day 14, the maximum concentration (C(max) ) of efavirenz was >4 µg/mL in 96.6% of participants, while C(min) was <1 µg/mL in only 4.5%. Overall, 69% of participants experienced adverse central nervous system (CNS) symptoms attributable to efavirenz during the 2-week period, and 95% of these participants were found to have efavirenz plasma concentrations >4 µg/mL, although only half maintained a high concentration until at least 8 h after dosing.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study show that HIV-infected patients on efavirenz may exhibit autoinduction to various extents, and this needs to be taken into consideration in the clinical management of individual patients. Efavirenz CNS toxicity during the initial phase of treatment may be related to C(max) , regardless of the sampling time.

The pesticide deltamethrin increases free radical production and promotes nuclear translocation of the stress response transcription factor Nrf2 in rat brain

The transcription factor NF-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a critical role in the mammalian response to chemical and oxidative stress through induction of phase II detoxification enzymes and oxidative stress response proteins. We reported that Nrf2 expression was activated by deltamethrin (DM), a prototype of the widely used Parathyroid pesticides, in PC12 cells. However, no study has examined Nrf2 nuclear translocation and free radical production, two hallmarks of oxidative stress, in the mammalian brain in vivo. To this end, we examined translocation of Nrf2 and production of free radicals in rat brain exposed to DM. Indeed, DM initiated nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, Nrf2 translocation was accompanied by the expression of heme oxygenase-1 gene, an Nrf2-regulated gene linked to free radical production. Deltamethrin exposure promoted free radical formation in rat brain and reactive oxygen species generation in PC12 cells. Translocation of Nrf2 may be a response to DM-dependent induction of free radicals and DM may act as a mammalian neurotoxin by initiating oxidative stress.

Phase I trial of anti-PSMA designer T cells in advanced prostate cancer

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Background: We created chimeric immunoglobulin-T cell receptors (IgTCR) specific for prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA). When expressed in patient T cells, these “designer T cells” (dTc) specifically kill prostate cancer cells in vitro and in vivo in animal models, with 5/9 (55%) of xenografted mice experiencing complete remissions (Ma et al. Prostate 2004:61:12–25). A phase I clinical trial was approved by the FDA.

Methods: Patient T cells are retrovirally transduced and expanded ex vivo to span dose levels of 10^9 to 10^11 T cells. Patients undergo prior non-myeloablative (NMA) conditioning to create “hematologic space” into which designer T cells are infused for stable engraftment and prolonged in vivo efficacy. Patients are co-administered continuous infusion IL2. Outcomes include Phase Ia goals of safety and Phase Ib goals of establishing an optimal biologic dose in terms of designer T cell engraftment.

Results: Five patients have been treated, three at 10^9 and two at 10^10 cell dose levels. Excellent T cell modifications of 30%-60% were obtained. After NMA conditioning, T cells were infused. Stable engraftments of 1%-20% post-recovery at one month after T cell infusion, thus affirming one of the study end-points. Patients experienced neutropenic fever after conditioning, but no designer T cell-related toxicities. Two patients had partial responses with PSA reductions of 50 and 70% in the two months following treatment with projected benefits of 4 months gain of time to return to starting PSA levels. Results will be updated at the conference.

Conclusions: A new approach to adoptive immune therapy in metastatic prostate cancer has been devised with encouraging early results. Patients are being actively recruited. This clinical trial received partial funding from the US Army/DOD. Preclinical work was supported by the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Dipeptidyl peptidase IV inhibitor sitagliptin reduces local inflammation in adipose tissue and in pancreatic islets of obese mice

Adipose tissue inflammation and reduced pancreatic β-cell function are key issues in the development of cardiovascular disease and progressive metabolic dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the DPP IV inhibitor sitagliptin on adipose tissue and pancreatic islet inflammation in a diet-induced obesity model. C57Bl/6J mice were placed on a high-fat (60% kcal fat) diet for 12 wk, with or without sitagliptin (4 g/kg) as a food admix. Sitagliptin significantly reduced fasting blood glucose by 21% as well as insulin by ∼25%. Sitagliptin treatment reduced body weight without changes in overall body mass index or in the epididymal and retroperitoneal fat mass. However, sitagliptin treatment led to triple the number of small adipocytes despite reducing the number of the very large adipocytes. Sitagliptin significantly reduced inflammation in the adipose tissue and pancreatic islet. Macrophage infiltration in adipose tissue evaluated by immunostaining for Mac2 was reduced by sitagliptin (P < 0.01), as was the percentage of CD11b+/F4/80+ cells in the stromal vascular fraction (P < 0.02). Sitagliptin also reduced adipocyte mRNA expression of inflammatory genes, including IL-6, TNFα, IL-12(p35), and IL-12(p40), 2.5- to fivefold as well as 12-lipoxygenase protein expression. Pancreatic islets were isolated from animals after treatments. Sitagliptin significantly reduced mRNA expression of the following inflammatory cytokines: MCP-1 (3.3-fold), IL-6 (2-fold), IL-12(p40) (2.2-fold), IL-12(p35) (5-fold, P < 0.01), and IP-10 (2-fold). Collectively, the results indicate that sitagliptin has anti-inflammatory effects in adipose tissue and in pancreatic islets that accompany the insulinotropic effect.

High-energy x-ray backlighter spectrum measurements using calibrated image plates

The x-ray spectrum between 18 and 88 keV generated by a petawatt laser driven x-ray backlighter target was measured using a 12-channel differential filter pair spectrometer. The spectrometer consists of a series of filter pairs on a Ta mask coupled with an x-ray sensitive image plate. A calibration of Fuji™ MS and SR image plates was conducted using a tungsten anode x-ray source and the resulting calibration applied to the design of the Ross pair spectrometer. Additionally, the fade rate and resolution of the image plate system were measured for quantitative radiographic applications. The conversion efficiency of laser energy into silver Kα x rays from a petawatt laser target was measured using the differential filter pair spectrometer and compared to measurements using a single photon counting charge coupled device.

A new uterine compression suture for postpartum haemorrhage with atony

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a major cause of worldwide maternal mortality and is still associated with significant morbidity. After the B-Lynch suture was reported in 1997, several different uterine compression sutures were found to be successful in controlling PPH. In this paper, we describe another simple variation of the uterine compression suture technique, which was performed without an incision in the uterine wall, without entering the uterine cavity and without suturing the anterior and posterior walls of the uterus together, so minimising the trauma to the uterus. This new uterine compression suture is an effective and safe surgical treatment for PPH caused by atony. It has the potential to apply to intractable PPH after vaginal delivery.

Human lactoferrin stimulates skin keratinocyte function and wound re-epithelialization

BACKGROUND

Human lactoferrin (hLF), a member of the transferrin family, is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Recent studies on various nonskin cell lines indicate that hLF may have a stimulatory effect on cell proliferation.

OBJECTIVES

To study the potential role of hLF in wound re-epithelialization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effects of hLF on cell growth, migration, attachment and survival were assessed, with a rice-derived recombinant hLF (holo-rhLF), using proliferation analysis, scratch migration assay, calcein-AM/propidium iodide staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labelling (TUNEL) method, respectively. The mechanisms of hLF on cell proliferation and migration were explored using specific pathway inhibitors. The involvement of lactoferrin receptor low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) was examined with RNA interference technique. An in vivo swine second-degree burn wound model was also used to assess wound re-epithelialization.

RESULTS

Studies revealed that holo-rhLF significantly stimulated keratinocyte proliferation which could be blocked by mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinase 1 inhibitor. Holo-rhLF also showed strong promoting effects on keratinocyte migration, which could be blocked by either inhibition of the MAPK, Src and Rho/ROCK pathways, or downregulation of the LRP1 receptor. With cells under starving or 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate exposure, the addition of holo-rhLF was found greatly to increase cell viability and inhibit cell apoptosis. Additionally, holo-rhLF significantly increased the rate of wound re-epithelialization in swine second-degree burn wounds.

CONCLUSIONS

Our studies demonstrate the direct effects of holo-rhLF on wound re-epithelialization including the enhancement of keratinocyte proliferation and migration as well as the protection of cells from apoptosis. The data strongly indicate its potential therapeutic applications in wound healing.

c-Abl and Arg tyrosine kinases regulate lysosomal degradation of the oncoprotein Galectin-3

Galectin-3 (Gal3) has important roles in tumor transformation and metastasis. This study shows that c-Abl and Abl-related gene (Arg) associate with and phosphorylate Gal3. The SH (Src homology)3 domains of c-Abl/Arg bind to a P(80)GPPSGP motif of Gal3, and Tyr79 and Tyr118 are the major tyrosine phosphorylation sites. A consequence of this interaction and phosphorylation is the significant impairment of chaperone-mediated autophagy of Gal3. Cells expressing Gal3 and treated with the c-Abl/Arg inhibitor STI571, Gal3-depleted cells, and Gal3-depleted cells expressing Gal3 phosphorylation mutants all display an increased sensitivity to apoptosis-inducing agents. In addition, tumor cells expressing the phosphorylation mutants show impaired tumorigenicity. These results partially explain the antiapoptotic effect of Abl and Arg. As tumors frequently overexpress Gal3, a c-Abl/Arg-specific inhibitor may potentially be applied along with other antitumor drugs to target the lysosomal degradation of Gal3 in tumor therapy.

Efficacy and safety of pegylated interferon alpha-2a therapy for chronic hepatitis C in HIV-infected patients with haemophilia

The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pegylated interferon (PEG-IFN) alpha-2a monotherapy in a cohort of Chinese haemophilic patients co-infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/hepatitis C virus (HCV) and undergoing highly active antiretroviral drugs therapy. Twenty-two (n = 22) patients with CD4 lymphocyte counts over 200 cells microL(-1) were treated with 180 microg of PEG-IFN alpha-2a subcutaneously once in a week for 48 weeks. HCV load (HCV RNA), HIV load (HIV RNA) and CD4 lymphocyte counts were measured at baseline and 4, 12, 24, 48 and 72 weeks after initiation of anti-HCV therapy. Efficacy and safety were analysed according to baseline CD4 status (> or =350 cells microL(-1)). Significant HCV-RNA decreases (>1 log(10) copies mL(-1)) were observed through week 72 after PEG-INF alpha-2a monotherapy across both CD4 strata. CD4 status was not associated with treatment outcomes as evaluated using rapid viral response rate (P = 0.655), early viral response rate (P = 0.387), end-of-treatment viral response rate (P = 1.000) or sustained viral response rate (SVR, P = 0.674). A sustained virological response was achieved in nine patients (41%), five with genotype 2a (83%) and four with genotype 1b (25%, P = 0.023). SVR was HCV genotype dependent. Eleven patients required a dose reduction in PEG-IFN alpha-2a. PEG-IFN alpha-2a monotherapy could be considered as a safe and effective option for the treatment of HCV infection in HIV patients with haemophilia, particularly in resource-limited settings. While higher CD4 lymphocyte counts resulted in greater HCV-RNA reduction, HCV genotype was a predictor for sustained virological response.

Phase I trial of advanced generation anti-CEA designer T cells in gastrointestinal and breast cancers

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Background: We created “designer T cells” by retroviral gene therapy to express chimeric immunoglobulin-T cell receptors (IgTCR) with specificity for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). Our previous Phase I trial with 1st generation (1st gen) designer T cells was well tolerated with proof-of-principle “biologic responses”, but of limited duration. Lab correlates showed modified T cells repeatedly kill tumor targets over 4–7 days but then undergo activation-induced cell death (AICD). We created 2nd gen designer T cells that incorporate CD28 co-stimulation into the IgTCR (IgCD28TCR), suppressing AICD and promoting T cell proliferation on tumor contact with superior tumor responses in vivo (Emtage et al. Clin Cancer Res 2008;14:8112). A Phase I clinical trial was approved under FDA BB-IND 10791. Methods: Patient T cells are modified ex vivo, expanded and then administered in a Phase Ia dose escalation, spanning doses of 10^9 to 10^11 cells. Patients are monitored for safety, pharmacokinetics and response. Results: To date, three subjects enrolled with doses prepared and two were treated. T cells were transduced with equal modification of CD4 helper and CD8 cytotoxic T cells and good ex vivo expansions of 30-fold or more. Cells were infused over 15–30 minutes. Blood clearance was rapid. Dosing was without toxicity but also without responses at this lowest T cell dose level. Results will be updated to include new patients at conference time. Conclusions: The safety of 2nd generation designer T cells is supported in two patients at the lowest T cell dose level. Higher planned doses are 10- to 100-fold more T cells, to be observed for toxicity and where responses may begin to be observed. Funding is from the Office of Orphan Products Development of the FDA.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase I trial of anti-PSMA designer T-cell autografting in prostate cancer

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Background: We created chimeric immunoglobulin-T cell receptors (IgTCR) specific for prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA). When expressed in patient T cells, these “designer T cells” specifically kill prostate cancer cells in vitro and in vivo in animal models, with 5/9 (55%) of xenografted mice experiencing complete remissions (Ma et al. Prostate 2004:61:12–25). A Phase I clinical trial was approved by the FDA in metastatic prostate cancers. Methods: Patient T cells are retrovirally transduced and expanded ex vivo to span dose levels of 10^9 to 10^11 T cells. Adapting methods of Dudley, Rosenberg and colleagues, patients undergo prior non-myeloablative (NMA) conditioning to create a “hematologic space” into which the infused designer T cells will stably engraft for prolonged in vivo efficacy. Patients are co-administered continuous infusion IL2. Outcomes will include Phase Ia goals of safety and toxicity and Phase Ib goals of establishing an optimal biologic dose in terms of designer T cell engraftment and tumor response. Results: For the first two patients, excellent T cell modifications of 50–60% were obtained. After NMA conditioning, T cells were infused and stable engraftments of 1–5% were observed post recovery, even at this lowest 10^9 T cell dose level, thus affirming one of the study end-points. The patients had PSA reductions of 50 and 70% in the two months following treatment. Patients experienced neutropenia and lymphopenia after conditioning, but no designer T cell-related toxicities. Results with additional patients will be described in terms of safety, engraftment efficiency and tumor responses. Conclusions: A new approach to adoptive immune therapy in metastatic prostate cancer has been devised. This clinical trial is funded by the US Army/DOD.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Blockade of SDF-1/CXCR4 signalling inhibits pancreatic cancer progression in vitro via inactivation of canonical Wnt pathway

Extra-pancreatic metastasis is a difficult problem for surgical intervention in pancreatic cancer. CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) was considered to have an important role in this process. We hypothesized it may contribute to the pancreatic cancer progression through influencing canonical Wnt pathway. The purpose of this study was to examine the functional role of CXCR4 in the progression of pancreatic cancers and explore the possible mechanism. To this end, the relation between CXCR4 and clinical characteristics was analysed. shRNA against CXCR4 was applied to disrupt the SDF-1/CXCR4 signal transduction pathways in pancreatic cancer cell lines. Our results showed that overall survival in the case of patients positive for CXCR4 expression was significantly lower than that in the case of patients negative for CXCR4 expression. Notably, in vitro studies we observed that the abrogation of CXCR4 could obviously influence the pancreatic cancer cell phenotype including cell proliferation, colony formation, cell invasion and also inhibit the TOPflash activity. In addition, Wnt target genes and mesenchymal markers such as Vimentin and Slug were also inhibited in CXCR4 knockdown cells. Collectively, these data reported here demonstrate CXCR4 could modulate the canonical Wnt pathway and perhaps be a promising therapeutic target for pancreatic cancer progression.

Temperature dependences of mechanisms responsible for the water-vapor continuum absorption. I. Far wings of allowed lines

It is well known that the water-vapor continuum plays an important role in the radiative balance in the Earth's atmosphere. This was first discovered by Elsasser almost 70 years ago, and since that time there has been a large body of work, both experimental and theoretical, on this topic. It has been experimentally shown that for ambient atmospheric conditions, the continuum absorption scales quadratically with the H(2)O number density and has a strong, negative temperature dependence (T dependence). Over the years, there have been three different theoretical mechanisms postulated: Far wings of allowed transitions, water dimers, and collision-induced absorption. Despite the improvements in experimental data, at present there is no consensus on which mechanism is primarily responsible for the absorption. The first mechanism proposed was the accumulation of the far-wing absorption of the strong allowed transitions. Later, absorption by water dimers was proposed and this mechanism provides a qualitative explanation for the strong, negative T dependence. Recently, some atmospheric modelers have proposed that collision-induced absorption is one of the major contributors. However, based on improvements in the theoretical calculation of accurate far-wing line shapes, ab initio dimer calculations, and theoretical collision-induced absorptions, it is now generally accepted that the dominant mechanism for the absorption in the infrared (IR) windows is that due to the far wings. Whether this is true for other spectral regions is not presently established. Although all these three mechanisms have a negative T dependence, their T dependences will be characterized by individual features. To analyze the characteristics of the latter will enable one to assess their roles with more certainty. In this paper, we present a detailed study of the T dependence of the far-wing absorption mechanism. We will then compare our theoretical calculations with the most recent and accurate experimental data in the IR windows. The results of our calculations are found to agree very well with measurements in the 800-1200 cm(-1) region. We conclude from this work that the T dependence in the IR window region predicted by the far-wing theory is negative and moderately strong. Its pattern is not simple and it could vary significantly as the frequency of interest varies.

Pharmacological targeting of C5a receptors during organ preservation improves kidney graft survival

Cadaveric renal transplants suffer frequently from delayed graft function, which is associated with increased risk for long-term graft survival loss. One-third of kidney grafts that are stored in current organ preservation solutions experience delayed graft function, demonstrating the urgent need for improvement. Although ischaemic graft injury is complex in nature, complement activation is considered important to the process. Here we show that pharmacological targeting of the complement 5a receptor (C5aR) during cold ischaemia has a protective effect on early kidney graft survival, inflammation and apoptosis in a mouse model of syngeneic kidney transplantation. Graft survival of kidneys that were stored in University of Wisconsin solution in the presence of a C5aR antagonist increased from 29% to 57%. Increased graft survival was associated with less tubular damage and apoptosis, protection from sustained C5aR expression and decreased production of tumour necrosis factor-alpha and macrophage inflammatory protein-2. In a translational approach, we determined C5aR expression in paediatric living-related and cadaveric allografts. C5aR expression was significantly higher in all compartments of kidneys from cadaveric compared with kidneys from living-related donors. C5aR expression in cadaveric kidneys correlated positively with cold ischaemia time, renal dysfunction and the frequency of apoptotic tubular cells, suggesting a novel role for C5a in delayed graft function pathogenesis. Supplementing organ preservation solutions with C5aR inhibitors may improve early graft function following cadaveric kidney transplantation.

Hydraulic lift by canola plants aids P and K uptake from dry topsoil

The role of hydraulic lift in nutrient uptake from dry topsoil is unclear. Vertically-split root systems were used to measure hydraulic lift and phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) uptake at the rosette and flowering stages of two canola (Brassica napus L.) cultivars (Trigold and Boomer with small and large root systems, respectively) grown in soil low in P and K. Rubidium (Rb) was used as a tracer to examine K uptake from K fertiliser banded in dry topsoil. During vegetative growth, statistically significant hydraulic lift was measured, irrespective of cultivar root size or a specific nutrient (P or K) placed in the topsoil. The Rb tracer revealed significant amounts of K were absorbed from the dry soil, but at rates five-fold lower than from the moist soil. The water lifted could not prevent cessation of P uptake by Boomer and a reduction in P uptake by Trigold. During mid to late flowering, ion uptake from the dry topsoil was impeded despite the continuation of hydraulic lift up to 28 days after the topsoil was dried. Minimal fine root growth following topsoil drying (and reduction in fine root biomass in some treatments) appeared to be the primary cause of impeded nutrient uptake.

Bifurcation diagram and pattern formation of phase slip centers in superconducting wires driven with electric currents

We provide here new insights into the classical problem of a one-dimensional superconducting wire exposed to an applied electric current using the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau model. The most striking feature of this system is the well-known appearance of oscillatory solutions exhibiting phase slip centers (PSC's) where the order parameter vanishes. Retaining temperature and applied current as parameters, we present a simple yet definitive explanation of the mechanism within this nonlinear model that leads to the PSC phenomenon and we establish where in parameter space these oscillatory solutions can be found. One of the most interesting features of the analysis is the evident collision of real eigenvalues of the associated PT-symmetric linearization, leading as it does to the emergence of complex elements of the spectrum.

Beta-globin gene cluster polymorphisms are strongly associated with severity of HbE/beta(0)-thalassemia

We evaluated the contribution of 67 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the beta-globin gene cluster to disease severity in groups of 207 mild- and 305 severe unrelated patients from Thailand with Hemoglobin E (HbE)/beta(0)-thalassemia and normal alpha-globin genes. Our analysis showed that these SNPs comprise two distinct linkage disequilibrium blocks, one containing the beta-globin gene and the other extending from the locus control region (LCR) to the delta gene, which are separated by a recombination hotspot in the narrow region of the beta-globin gene promoter. Forty-five SNPs within the interval including the LCR region and the delta gene showed strong association with disease severity. The strongest association was observed with the XmnI polymorphism located 158-bp upstream to the G gamma gene (p = 4.6E-12). Carriers of the T allele of XmnI were more likely to have a milder disease course and higher level of fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in both the mild (p = 0.005) and severe (p = 8.7E-06) patient groups. Haplotype analysis revealed that the T allele of XmnI was nearly always in cis with the HbE allele. The high frequency of this haplotype may be favored by positive selection against malarial infection. Further studies are needed to validate this hypothesis and determine whether XmnI or another closely linked variant modulates severity and HbF levels in patients with beta(0)-thalassemia/HbE disease.

Fetal hemoglobin in sickle cell anemia: genetic determinants of response to hydroxyurea

The increase in fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in response to hydroxyurea (HU) varies among patients with sickle cell anemia. Twenty-nine candidate genes within loci previously reported to be linked to HbF level (6q22.3-q23.2, 8q11-q12 and Xp22.2-p22.3), involved in metabolism of HU and related to erythroid progenitor proliferation were studied in 137 sickle cell anemia patients treated with HU. Three-hundred and twenty tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for genotyping were selected based on HapMap data. Multiple linear regression and the nonlinear regression Random Forest method were used to investigate the association between SNPs and the change in HbF level after 2 years of treatment with HU. Both methods revealed that SNPs in genes within the 6q22.3-23.2 and 8q11-q12 linkage peaks, and also the ARG2, FLT1, HAO2 and NOS1 genes were associated with the HbF response to HU. Polymorphisms in genes regulating HbF expression, HU metabolism and erythroid progenitor proliferation might modulate the patient response to HU.