Pharmacologic profile of TA-606, a novel angiotensin II-receptor antagonist in the rat

This study was carried out to characterize a novel angiotensin II-receptor antagonist, TA-606, (3-pentyloxy) carbonyloxymethyl-5-acetyl-2-n-propyl-3-[2'(1H-tetrazole-5-yl) biphenyl-4-yl]methyl-4,5,6,7-tetrahydro imidazo [4,5-c] pyridine-4-carboxylate hydrochloride, which is a newly synthesized prodrug of 606A. In anesthetized rats, 606A inhibited angiotensin II-induced pressor response with a median inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 6 microg/kg, i.v., and was 8 times more potent than EXP3174, an active metabolite of losartan. Bioavailability of TA-606 was 11 times higher than that of 606A in Sprague-Dawley rats, with consistent hypotensive potencies in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). In conscious renal hypertensive rats (RHRs) and conscious SHRs, TA-606 lowered the blood pressure without any effects on the heart rate, and its effective dose for 30 mm Hg (ED30) values were 0.14 and 0.21 mg/kg, p.o., respectively. The effect of TA-606 lasted > 10 h in both models. Moreover, the effect of TA-606 was approximately 30 and 10 times more potent than those of losartan in RHRs and SHRs, respectively. TA-606 did not affect the blood pressure in deoxycorticosterone acetate (DOCA)-salt hypertensive rats. TA-606 given for 12 weeks attenuated the development of hypertension in stroke-prone SHRs. These results indicate that TA-606 is a potent angiotensin II-receptor antagonist with antihypertensive efficacy. Thus TA-606 is suggested to be a possible useful agent in the treatment of hypertension.

Antithrombotic action of TA-993, a new 1,5-benzothiazepine derivative, in a canine model of femoral arterial thrombosis

TA-993 is a novel 1,5-benzothiazepine derivative of l-cis configuration, having a potent antiplatelet action and an increasing action on femoral blood flow. We evaluated the antithrombotic effect of TA-993 in a canine model of femoral arterial thrombosis. Thrombus was induced by both application of direct anodal current to the femoral artery and partial occlusion of the artery. The partial occlusion by placing an adjustable occluder on the artery and the current application were carried out 40 and 60 min after the intraduodenal administration of drugs, respectively. In control dogs, complete sustained occlusion of the femoral artery due to thrombus occurred 55.4 +/- 9.2 min after the onset of current application. TA-993 (3 and 10 mg/kg) dose-dependently prolonged the time for occlusion. Aspirin (30 mg/kg) also prolonged it. TA-993, 10 mg/kg, significantly inhibited whole-blood aggregation 60 min after the administration with a weaker potency than that of aspirin (30 mg/kg), whereas 3 mg/kg of TA-993 did not. The inhibitory effect of TA-993 (10 mg/kg) on platelet aggregation was maintained for >7 h. Moreover, TA-993 (10 mg/kg) increased femoral blood flow in spite of the partially occluded condition. These results indicate that TA-993 has an antithrombotic effect on femoral arterial thrombosis and suggest that an increasing action on femoral blood flow of TA-993 is more relevant than its antiplatelet action to the antithrombotic effect in this model.

[Detection of apolipoproteins E5 and E7 by a widely used commercial ApoE IFE kit--evidence provided by genotyping]

The purpose of this study is to examine a possibility to detect apolipoprotein (apo) E5 and E7 isoproteins with a commercial kit widely used (Phenotyping Apo E IFE System, Jokoh Co. LTD., Tokyo) and to clarify the frequency of the rare alleles in Central Japan. A total of 1,445 subjects living in Central Japan (1,030 hemodialysis patients and 415 apparently healthy individuals) was phenotyped for apo E isoproteins with the kit using isoelectric focusing with immunoblotting. In 23 subjects, unique apo E4 isoproteins, which migrate more basically than apo E4 isoprotein, were found. These unique isoproteins were proved to be apo E5 or E7 isoproteins by PCR with restriction fragment length polymorphism and with amplification refractory mutation systems, respectively. No significant differences in the frequencies of apo E5 or apo E7 alleles were observed between healthy individuals and hemodialysis patients (0.011 vs. 0.018, NS). The frequencies of apo E5 and E7 alleles were 0.001 and 0.005, respectively, in healthy individuals, and 0.003 and 0.005, respectively, in hemodialysis patients. These data in Central Japan were consistent with those in Western Japan (Matsunaga, et al, Clin Genet, 1995). These results indicate that the commercial kit is applicable to detect the rare alleles, apo E5 and E7 alleles and that the frequencies of the rare alleles in Central Japan are similar to those in Western Japan.

[Two surgical cases of right parasternal minimal incision for aortic valve replacement]

Although median sternotomy has been used as a good approach to all cardiac valves and coronary arteries, advantages of the minimal invasive cardiac operation have been reported recently. We employed the right parasternal minial incision, reported by Cosgrove et al. for two cases of aortic valve replacement. In the first case, we were able to get a good operation field and easily implanted a mechanical prosthesis. In contrast, we had some difficulties with the second case where in addition to the third and fourth cartilages, a second cartilage resection was necessary because the aortic root lay at a cephalic level. Moreover, the operation field was restricted because we left several rib cartilages to preserve the right internal thoracic artery. The cannula had to be inserted via the right atrium as we failed to insert it in the right femoral vein, and the aortic root deviated more medially than usual. From these experiences, it is important to check the position of aortic root, and if the cannula cannot be inserted in the femoral vein, cannulation via the right atrium can ve utilized in the minimal invasive cardiac operation.

Cardiovascular effect of a new 1,5-benzothiazepine derivative TA-993 in anesthetized dogs

TA-993 is a new 1,5-benzothiazepine derivative having l-cis configuration and shows a potent antiplatelet aggregating action. We studied its cardiovascular effect in anesthetized dogs by using diltiazem as a reference compound. TA-993 (> or = 10 microg/kg, i.v.) significantly increased blood flows of common carotid, brachial, and femoral arteries. The peak of its effect was observed approximately 60 min after the administration, and the peak level was maintained until > or = 300 min after the administration. TA-993 (100 microg/kg, i.v.) slightly increased cardiac output in the same manner. However, TA-993 did not cause any persistent effects on arterial pressure, LVdP/dtmax, or vertebral, coronary, superior mesenteric, and renal blood flows. TA-993 caused concentration-dependent vasorelaxation in the isolated canine femoral artery contracted with 40 mM K+, but its potency was approximately 1/20 that of diltiazem. The increasing action of TA-993 on femoral blood flow was completely inhibited by pretreatment with hexamethonium in anesthetized dogs. These results indicate that TA-993 has a selective increasing action on common carotid, brachial, and femoral blood flows and suggest that the action is mediated by the autonomic nervous system.

[Intraoperative assessment of the ascending aorta by echogram during the CABG operation for the prevention of cerebral infarction]

While coronary artery bypass grafting operations (CABG), we started to use the echogram to evaluate the ascending aorta intraoperatively from December 1993. During a period from January, 1990, to June, 1995, 379 patients were treated with CABG. Intraoperative echogram was used in 127 cases (group I) and 252 cases unused (group II). The sites of the aorta for evaluation were following: site of cannulation, aortic clamping, and proximal anastomosis respectively. Depending on the echographical findings the operative procedures were changed as required. The incidence of postoperative cerebral embolism in group I was 0.8% (one patient) and in group II, 2.4% (6 patients). Although no significant difference was found in the cohort, rate of incidence in the group II was high. There were 4 cases who had significant atheromatous lesions clearly evaluated by echogram, which were not detected by palpation. We conclude that the intraoperative assessment of the ascending aorta by echogram is beneficial in prevention of cerebral infarction.

Left ventricular volume predicts postoperative course in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy

BACKGROUND

The left ventricular end-systolic volume index (LVESVI) helps to predict postoperative left ventricular function in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy.

METHODS

We retrospectively assessed the ability of preoperative variables to predict death and the development of postoperative congestive heart failure in 41 patients with a preoperative ejection fraction of less than 0.30.

RESULTS

A preoperative LVESVI of greater than 100 mL/m2 was identified as an independent predictor of death by Cox's proportional hazards model. Diabetes and a preoperative LVESVI of greater than 100 mL/m2 were independent predictive risk factors for the development of postoperative congestive heart failure. Postoperative congestive heart failure developed in 2 of the 23 patients (8.7%) who had a preoperative LVESVI of less than 100 mL/m2 and in 10 of the 16 patients (62.5%) who had a preoperative LVESVI of greater than 100 mL/m2. The actuarial survival rate during follow-up in patients who had a preoperative LVESVI of less than 100 mL/m2 was significantly greater than that in patients who had a preoperative LVESVI of greater than 100 mL/m2. The actuarial rate of freedom from congestive heart failure during the follow-up period also was greater in patients who had a preoperative LVESVI of less than 100 mL/m2.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that the preoperative LVESVI predicts the development of postoperative congestive heart failure and the actuarial survival rate in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy.

Cystic dilatation of ventriculus terminalis in adults: MRI

We report the MRI findings in two patients with cystic dilatation of the ventriculus terminalis. The latter is usually a tiny ependyma-lined cavity of the conus medullaris. In both cases the markedly dilated ventriculus terminalis was seen as a rounded cavity with regular margins, the content of which gave the same signal as cerebrospinal fluid with all MR pulse sequences. No contrast enhancement was seen.

[HLA antigens are associated in seronegativity to cytomegalovirus(CMV)]

Cytomegalovirus(CMV) is ubiquitous in the world, but the rate of CMV antibody positivity (seropositivity) in adults varies geographically. In Japan, CMV seropositivity in adults in 90% and we perceived seronegative adults tend to remain seronegative in 10 years follow up study. We have performed HLA typing 125 seronegative healthy donors of 28 years and up (28-57, Ave.35), and the results were compared with those of healthy donors in same area and whole Japan (data from 10th HLA workshop). Incidence of HLA-A33 and HLA-Cw4 were significantly higher in seronegatives than control groups. This report suggests possible involvement of HLA type in CMV negativity.

Malignant schwannoma-derived cells support human skin mast cell survival in vitro

We have recently observed mast cell infiltration in malignant schwannoma (MS) arising in the patient with von Recklinghausen's disease. To determine the cell to cell interactions between human skin mast cell (HSMC) and MS cell, we investigated the HSMC survival and the morphological changes when cultured with MS-derived cells isolated from the patient. Partially purified HSMCs obtained from normal adult skin and cutaneous neurofibroma by enzymatic digestion were cocultured with MS-derived cells on the coverslips. The number of HSMCs stained with crystal violet were directly counted by light microscope. HSMCs cocultured with MS-derived cell feeder layer revealed significantly increased HSMC survival compared to that with normal human skin fibroblast layer at 1 and 2 weeks. Conditioned medium of cultured MS-derived cell did not influence HSMC survival. In the morphology HSMCs cultured with MS-derived cells demonstrated spindle form in close contact with the adjacent MS-derived cells, suggesting cell to cell interactions. We failed to detect stem cell factor (SCF) mRNA in cultured MS-derived cell by RT-PCR. These results suggest that MS-derived cell is capable of supporting HSMC survival in vitro. Some factor(s) other than SCF, which is associated with direct contact between HSMCs and MS-derived cells, might relate to these observations.

Acutely severe myocarditis successfully treated by percutaneous cardiopulmonary support applied by a newly developed heparin-binding oxygenator and circuits

The feasibility of using the heparin-bound percutaneous cardiopulmonary support system (PCPS) for prolonged extracorporeal circulation in patients with acute severe myocarditis is demonstrated. The case histories of 2 patients with cardiogenic shock caused by acute myocarditis are presented; both were successfully treated with long-term PCPS using a newly developed heparin-binding oxygenator and circuits without changing the oxygenator. The courses of both patients remain uneventful more than 12 months after discharge. We also discuss the clinical aspects of using heparin-bound PCPS in patients with acute severe myocarditis.

A new high-molecular-weight glycophorin C variant with a duplication of exon 2 in the glycophorin C gene

Glycophorin C (GPC) and glycophorin D (GPD) are closely related sialoglycoproteins in the human red blood cell (RBC) membrane. Both are thought to be encoded by the GPC gene (GYPC). We report here the new GPC variant, MAT, with a high-molecular-weight form of GPC and GPD. The murine monoclonal antibody to GPC (CBC-96), which had specificity for the N-terminal region of GPC, gave a stronger reactivity with the MAT RBCs than did normal RBCs in direct agglutination tests. Immunoblotting of the MAT RBC membranes with anti-GPC antibodies showed the apparent molecular weight of GPC.MAT and GPD.MAT was 5000 greater than that of their normal counterparts. cDNA was synthesized from total RNA obtained from three unrelated, heterozygous MAT blood donors and analysed by the polymerase chain reaction with primers that spanned sequences encoded by GYPC. Two fragments were generated: one was 510 bp, the other was 453 bp and corresponded to the normal GPC. Sequencing of the mutant 510-bp fragment showed an insert of 57 nucleotides that corresponds to the entire sequence of exon 2 in GYPC. These results show that MAT is the result of a duplication of exon 2 in GYPC, which probably encodes the two high-molecular weight forms GPC.MAT and GPD.MAT. The MAT mutation is found with a frequency of 0.02% in the Japanese population.

Quantification and distribution of alpha 1-adrenoceptor subtype mRNAs in human vas deferens: comparison with those of epididymal and pelvic portions

1. This study was intended to quantify the amounts of the alpha 1-adrenoceptor subtype mRNAs in human vas deferens, and demonstrate the receptor subtype responsible for the vas contraction. 2. The RNase protection assay showed that the mean total amount of alpha 1a mRNA was 7.4 +/- 2.2 pg/5 micrograms of poly (A)+ RNA (97.0% of the total alpha 1 mRNA) in the epididymal portion (E-vas) and 4.9 +/- 0.8 pg/5 micrograms of poly (A)+ RNA (96.3% of the total) in the pelvic portion (P-vas). The E-vas showed a tendency to have a greater alpha 1a mRNA abundance than the P-vas (P = 0.11). The alpha 1b and alpha 1d mRNAs were absent or of extremely low abundance. 3. By an in situ hybridization, the alpha 1a and alpha 1d mRNAs were recognized in the smooth muscle cells of the E-vas and the P-vas, and the distribution pattern the same in both tissue. The alpha 1b mRNA positive site was scarcely detectable in both vas portions. 4. In a functional study, l-phenylephrine produced concentration-dependent contraction in the E-vas (Emax = 2.24 +/- 0.70 g; pD2 = 5.32 +/- 0.09) and the P-vas (Emax = 2.46 +/- 0.46 g; pD2 = 5.07 +/- 0.12). KMD-3213, a novel alpha 1A-adrenoceptor-selective antagonist, caused parallel rightward shifts of the concentration-response curves for l-phenylephrine. Apparent pKB values were 9.90 +/- 0.16 for the E-vas and 9.71 +/- 0.17 for the P-vas. There was no significant difference in Emax, pD2 or pKB estimates between the two portions. 5. We have found that alpha 1a mRNA is predominant in the human vas deferens, and confirmed that contraction of this organ is mediated by the alpha 1A-adrenoceptor.

Protective effect of T-686, an inhibitor of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 production, against the lethal effect of lipopolysaccharide in mice

We have examined the effects of an inhibitor of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) production, (3E,4E)-3-benzylidene-4-(3,4,5-trimethoxy-benzylidene)pyrrol idine-2,5-dione (T-686), on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced death in mice. Oral administration of T-686 (10 and 100 mg/kg/day) for 8 days prior to the LPS injection (35 mg/kg, i.v.) protected mice from the lethal effect of LPS in a dose-dependent fashion. Moreover, treatment with 100 mg/kg T-686 attenuated the increase in plasma PAI-1 activity and the decrease in AT-III activity induced by LPS. We conclude that T-686 can reduce the mortality of mice induced by LPS, which seems to be partially correlated with both hypercoagulation and hypofibrinolysis.

An estimation of craniofacial growth in the untreated Class III female with anterior crossbite

The literature has little to say regarding the normal growth and development of untreated individuals with Class III malocclusion or anterior crossbite. In part, this paucity of information is because of the relatively low prevalence of these characteristics in European-American populations and the need, recognized by the lay public and health professionals, for treatment of these conditions. Given the absence of true longitudinal data, this study attempts to estimate the growth of the untreated individual with Class III malocclusion and anterior crossbite by evaluating large samples of untreated subjects at distinct developmental stages. Initially the morphologic characteristics of 2074 Japanese female patients who had anterior crossbite were evaluated cephalometrically before treatment. On the basis of the cephalometric analysis, all subjects who did not have a Class III molar relationship were excluded from further analysis, leaving a sample of 1376. The subjects then were classified into seven groups (120-256 subjects per group) according to Hellman's stages of dental development. Descriptive statistics for 28 measurements were calculated. The results of this study imply that the maxilla in Japanese females maintains a retruded relationship to the cranial base and does not become less retrusive with time. In contrast, the mandible is protrusive even in the late deciduous dentition and becomes more protrusive with time, making the discrepancy between the upper and lower jaws progressively more severe. Dental compensations in both arches become increasingly evident as development progresses, and the underlying skeletal and dentoalveolar imbalances also are reflected in the soft tissue profile.

Second primary carcinoma in the residual cervical esophagus after thoracic esophagectomy: report of five cases

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Development of second primary carcinomas after thoracic esophagectomy has become of much concern, because recently the prognosis of thoracic esophageal carcinoma after esophagectomy with extended lymph node dissection has been improving. We report our experience of diagnosing and treatment second primary carcinomas arising in the remaining esophagus after thoracic esophagectomy.

METHODS

Among 253 patients who underwent esophagectomy for thoracic esophageal carcinoma more than 2 years previously, second primary esophageal carcinomas developed in five (2.0%), and these five patients were examined.

RESULTS

All second primary carcinomas were found by endoscopy, and were diagnosed as superficial carcinoma (Tis or T1) of the residual cervical esophagus. One patient underwent laser irradiation, another endoscopic mucosal resection, two had surgical mucosectomy, and one segmental resection of the esophagus. After the second treatment, three patients were disease free for 37-38 months, one died of recurrent disease of the first carcinoma 36 months later, and one died of distant metastases of the second carcinoma 8 months later. There have been no local recurrences after treatments for the second primaries.

CONCLUSIONS

A variety of low-trauma treatments were employed for the second carcinomas because they were found at an early stage. Endoscopic follow-up is proposed to detect second lesions at an early stage.

Uprighting the mandibular molars stimulates mandibular growth during treatment of class II malocclusion

We hypothesized that uprighting of the mandibular molars creates a counter-clockwise rotation of the mandible and stimulates mandibular forward growth during the treatment of a Class II malocclusion. This investigation used 33 longitudinal lateral cephalometric radiographs of Class II, Division 1 female patients. All cases were treated with non-extraction. Treatment was started in early adolescence with .018 slot edgewise Alexander appliances. High-pull head-gear and Class II elastics were used. Seventeen cases that showed more than 5 degrees of uprighting of the mandibular first molars were selected as the uprighted group. Cases that showed less than 5 degrees of uprighting of the mandibular first molars were selected as the non-uprighted group. There was a significant correlation coefficient between the uprighted degree of the mandibular first molars and the degree of clockwise rotation of the mandibular plane to FH.

[An emergent surgical case of acute massive pulmonary embolism supported by antithrombotic percutaneous cardiopulmonary support system]

We present an emergent surgical case of massive pulmonary embolism. A 57-year-old male patient was refereed to our medical center for progressive dyspnea. He was intubated because of severe hypoxia. Pulmonary arteriography revealed massive pulmonary embolism. In the catheter laboratory he fell in shock and the heart was arrested, antithrombotic percutaneous cardiopulmonary support (PCPS) was introduced immediately. Emergent thrombectomy was carried out consequently under moderate hypothermic complete cardiopulmonary bypass. Up to 30 x 20 x 10 mm in size fresh clots were removed. Antithrombotic PCPS and IABP were maintained for 168 hours postoperatively. There were no hemorrhagic complication during the support because low dose heparin was administered continuously to keep ACT around 150 sec. He discharged from the hospital two months later and alive in good health. In conclusion, antithrombotic PCPS is very useful to care massive pulmonary embolism with thrombectomy.

KMD-3213, a novel alpha1A-adrenoceptor antagonist, potently inhibits the functional alpha1-adrenoceptor in human prostate

KMD-3213, (-)-(R)-1-(3-hydroxypropyl)-5-[2-[[2-[2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy)phe noxy]ethyl]amino]propyl]indoline-7-carboxamide, is a novel and selective alpha1A-adrenoceptor antagonist. The potency of this drug to antagonize functional alpha1-adrenoceptor-mediated contraction in human prostatic smooth muscle was evaluated and compared with that of other alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonists. KMD-3213 inhibited noradrenaline-induced contractions with an apparent pK(B) value of 9.45 +/- 0.039, indicating a potency similar to that of tamsulosin. The affinity of prazosin for prostatic alpha1-adrenoceptors is given as potency for the alpha1L-adrenoceptor with an estimated pA2 value of 8.84 +/- 0.044. The data obtained in this study suggest that KMD-3213, an alpha1A-adrenoceptor-selective antagonist, has strong affinity for the alpha1L-adrenoceptor in the human prostate.

Synthesis biological evaluation of alkyl, alkoxy, alkylthio, or amino-substituted 2,3-dihydro-1,5-benzothiazepin-4(5H)-ones

2,3-Dihydro-1,5-benzothiazepin-4(5H)-ones substituted with an alkyl, alkoxy, alkylthio, hydroxy, or amino group on the fused benzene ring of the 1,5-benzothiazepine skeleton were synthesized and their vasodilating, antihypertensive, and platelet aggregation-inhibitory activities were investigated. (-)-cis-3-Acetoxy-5-[2-(di-methylamino) ethyl]-2,3-dihydro-8-methyl-2-(4-methylphenyl)-1,5-benzothiazepin- 4(5H)-one ((-)-13e) was selected for further studies as a potent inhibitor of platelet aggregation.

Sclerosing sweat duct carcinoma in the peri-anal skin: a case report

We report a case of sclerosing sweat duct carcinoma, a rare tumor, occurring in the peri-anal skin, a rare position. The patient, a 41-year-old Japanese woman, was admitted to our hospital with recurrence of sclerosing sweat duct carcinoma in the peri-anal skin, which had been initially resected at a local hospital. She underwent abdomino-perineal resection. No lymph node metastases or distant metastases were found. Although we allowed a 2-cm resection margin around the tumor, microscopy showed that the tumor had extended to within 2 mm of this margin at several sites, indicating that sclerosing sweat duct carcinoma is locally aggressive. An ample resection margin should therefore be taken at initial surgery for this type of tumor. Moreover, surgical excision that is wider and deeper than primary excision is required when this tumor recurs.

A new strategy for management of retroperitoneal tumors with supradiaphragmatic vena caval thrombi

A new surgical technique to treat retroperitoneal tumors with supradiaphragmatic vena caval invasion is described. In this technique, hepatic warm ischemia can be avoided with reversed hepatic outflow through the portal vein and neither hypothermic circulatory arrest nor cardiopulmonary bypass is necessary using centrifugal blood pump-driven bypass.

Characterization of dnaA gene expression in Mycoplasma capricolum

Expression of the dnaA gene in Mycoplasma capricolum was studied. The transcriptional start site was located 10 bp upstream from the putative translational initiation codon. Immunoblotting analysis revealed that DnaA protein was expressed at the levels significantly larger than those in Escherichia coli, and was localized mainly in the membrane. The transcriptional level of dnaA gene was reduced by inhibition of DNA synthesis with methyl methanesulfonate or mitomycin C, while the level of DnaA protein did not change. Reduction of protein synthesis did not significantly affect the total amount of DnaA protein, suggesting that the rates of synthesis and degradation of the protein are slow. These observations showed that the expression pattern of dnaA gene in M. capricolum is different from those of walled bacteria in some aspects.

A spontaneous testicular teratoma in an ICR mouse

A spontaneous teratoma was detected in the left testis of a 7-wk-old male ICR (Crj:CD-1) mouse. The tumor was composed of a variety of well-differentiated tissue elements from all 3 germ layers including neuronal tissue and stratified epithelium as ectoderm-derived tissues, bone, cartilage, striated muscle, and adipose tissue as mesodermal tissues, and respiratory columnar epithelium as endoderm-originated tissue. No tumor metastasis was detected. It may be of congenital origin as in strain 129 mice. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report concerning spontaneous testicular teratoma in a strain ICR mouse.

Structural determination of monosialyl trisaccharides obtained from caprine colostrum

Acidic oligosaccharides were separated by dialysis, ion-exchange, preparative paper and gel chromatography from caprine colostrum. Four sialyl trisaccharides were characterized by 1H-NMR spectrometry as follows: alpha-N-acetylneuraminyl-(2,6)-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1,4)-2-N-acetami do-2 -deoxy-D-glucopyranose (Neu5Ac alpha 2-6Gal beta 1-4GlcNAc), alpha-N-acetylneuraminyl-(2,3)-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1,4)-D-glucopyra nose (Neu5Ac alpha 2-3Gal beta-1-4Glc), alpha-N-acetylneuraminyl-(2,6)-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1,4)-D-glucopyra nose (Neu5Ac alpha 2-6Gal beta 1-4Glc) and alpha-N-glycolylneuraminyl-(2,6)-beta-D-galactopyranosyl-(1,4)-D -glucopyranose (Neu5Gc alpha 2-6Gal beta 1-4Glc).

Changes in contrast enhancement of hepatocellular carcinoma and liver: effect of temporary occlusion of a hepatic vein evaluated with spiral CT

PURPOSE

To assess the hemodynamics of the liver and of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) with hepatic vein occlusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Selected hepatic veins were temporarily occluded with a balloon catheter in 21 patients with 28 nontreated nodular HCCs. Computed tomographic (CT) arteriography was performed without and with temporary occlusion of a hepatic vein that drained the blood from segmental liver parenchyma containing tumor by using a unified spiral CT and angiography system. The degree of enhancement and change in appearance of the HCC in each condition were compared.

RESULTS

All HCCs were well-enhanced, almost round masses at CT arteriography. At CT arteriography with hepatic vein occlusion, however, HCCs were changed as follows: (a) the absolute attenuation of the HCC was decreased in 27 (96%) of 28 tumors compared with that at CT arteriography without hepatic vein occlusion, while attenuation of the surrounding liver parenchyma was increased; (b) the size of the highly enhanced area in HCC became smaller in 17 (61%) tumors (of these, two disappeared); and (c) the shape was changed in 12 (43%) tumors.

CONCLUSION

Hepatic vein occlusion resulted in reciprocal hemodynamic changes in the liver parenchyma relative to HCCs: Enhancement of the liver increases and that of HCCs decreases.

Identification of 2'-fucosyllactose in milk of the crabeater seal (Lobodon carcinophagus)

1. An oligosaccharide was isolated from extracts of crabeater seal milk by preparative paper chromatography. 2. The saccharide was identified as Fuc alpha 1-2Ga1 beta 1-4G1c by 1H-NMR spectroscopy. 3. This work represents the first identification of an oligosaccharide, other than lactose, in the milk of a pinniped.

The pharmacologic profile of 606A, a novel angiotensin II receptor antagonist

The pharmacologic profile of a novel angiotensin I (AT1) receptor antagonist 606A was studied in various in vitro and in vivo preparations. The 606A showed a high affinity at AT1 receptors [inhibition constant (Ki), 12.8 +/- 0.4 nM] in rabbit adrenal cortical membrane and a low affinity to AT2 receptors (Ki, > 1 mM) in bovine cerebellar membrane, indicating potent and selective AT1 properties. In the guinea pig aorta, 606A reduced the maximal angiotensin II-induced contraction (pD'2, 9.06 +/- 0.04), whereas EXP3174 showed suppression of the maximum response and a shift to the right of the concentration-response curve at lower and higher concentrations, respectively (conventionally calculated pd'2, 8.61 +/- 0.23). The 606A had no effects on KC1-, norepinephrine-, serotonin-, and endothelin-1-induced contractions or any agonist activities. In anesthetized dogs, 606A inhibited the angiotensin II-induced pressor response 35 times more potently than losartan. In renal hypertensive rats and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), 606A decreased systolic blood pressure 10 and 3 times more potently than losartan, respectively, without any chronotropic effects. By repeated administration of 606A to SHRs for 2 weeks, an augmentation of the hypotensive effect was observed No rebound phenomena occurred after discontinuation. These results indicate the 606A is a potent AT1-selective insurmountable angiotensin II receptor antagonist having more potent angiotensin II receptor antagonistic and hypotensive effects than losartan in in vivo models. 606A is suggested to be a useful agent for the treatment of patients with hypertension.

Cloning, functional expression and tissue distribution of rabbit alpha1a-adrenoceptor

A cDNA clone, which has an open reading frame of 1398 nucleotides encoding a 466-amino-acid peptide, has been isolated from rabbit liver cDNA library. Compared with the peptide sequence, it shows high homology to alpha1a adrenoceptors of human, bovine and rat. We expressed this clone in COS-7 and investigated the pharmacological properties, revealing similarity to those of human alpha1a adrenoceptors. Competitive RT/PCR has detected the mRNA in variety of rabbit tissues, especially abundantly in liver, vas deferens, brain, and aorta, but not in heart.

Immunocytochemical characterization of malignant schwannoma-derived cells in culture

We recently demonstrated that cultured malignant schwannoma (MS)-derived cells can support human skin mast cell (HSMC) survival in vitro. Cultured HSMCs were spindleshaped in close contract with MS-derived cells, suggesting cell to cell interaction. To elucidate the mechanism of the enhanced HSMC survival in coculture with MS-derived cells and the cellular interactions between HSMC and MS-derived cells, we examined the immunocytochemical characteristics of MS-derived cells using immunofluorescence. Morphologically, cultured MS-derived cells were polygonal with abundant cytoplasm and resembled perineurial cells. The cultured cells immunoreacted positively with vimentin, fibronectin, laminin and collagen IV, but negatively with anti-S100 protein, anti-neuron specific enolase, and anti-neurofilament (68 kd, 145 kd, 200 kd) antibodies. MS-derived cells were distinct from Schwann cells in their lack of S100 protein and also distinguishable from endoneurial fibroblasts that produce fibronectin, but never expressed laminin or collagen IV. MS-derived cells thus possess the characteristics of perineurial cells in their general morphology and their immunocytochemical properties. Immunoreactivity for substance P (SP) and neurokinin A (NKA) was found in the cytoplasm of these cells, particularly around the nuclei. Vasoactive intestinal peptide, somatostatin, and calcitonin gene related peptide were negative. From these findings, we characterized the MS-derived cell's in vitro properties and concluded that it is similar to a perineurial cell. The extracellular matrix protein, laminin, and fibronectin expressed in the MS-derived cell might contribute to HSMC survival and morphology through cell to matrix adhesion. Neuropeptides such as SP and NKA, expressed in the MS-derived cell, might play some role in enhanced HSMC survival in vitro.

Protective effect of l-cis-diltiazem on hypercontracture of rat myocytes induced by veratridine

The protective effect of l-cis-diltiazem, the stereoisomer of d-cis-diltiazem, was studied against the veratridine-induced hypercontracture of rat myocytes. Veratridine increased both [Na+]i and [Ca2+]i, but did not cause hypercontracture in the absence of extracellular Ca2+. Both l-cis-diltiazem (0.1-10 microM) and d-cis-diltiazem (10-30 microM) inhibited the hypercontracture and the increase in [Ca2+]i in a concentration-dependent manner. However, l-cis-diltiazem did not exert a negative inotropic effect in K+ (20 mM)-depolarized rat papillary muscles even at a dose of 10 microM. As seen in the case of tetrodotoxin, l-cis-diltiazem and d-cis-diltiazem also suppressed the increase in [Na+]i. The results show that l-cis-diltiazem prevents the veratridine-induced hypercontracture of myocytes by suppression of the [Ca2+]i increase. The attenuation of the [Ca2+]i increase by l-cis-diltiazem was not dependent on inhibition of Ca2+ channels, but was partly due to inhibition of excessive Na+ entry via veratridine-modified Na+ channels.

Effect of KMD-3213, an alpha 1a-adrenoceptor-selective antagonist, on the contractions of rabbit prostate and rabbit and rat aorta

KMD-3213, (-)-(R)-1-(3-hydroxypropyl)-5-[2-[[2-[2-(2,2,2-trifluoroethoxy) phenoxy]ethyl]amino]propyl]indoline-7-carboxamide, a newly synthesized alpha 1-adrenoceptor antagonist, has been shown to have potent action toward, and to be selective for human cloned and native alpha 1-adrenoceptors. In the present study, we characterized the inhibitory effect of KMD-3213 on the phenylephrine (alpha 1-adrenoceptor-selective agonist)-induced contraction of rabbit prostate, rabbit thoracic aorta and rat thoracic aorta to functionally confirm the tissue selectivity of KMD-3213. The mean pA2 value for KMD-3213 for the inhibition of the rabbit prostatic contraction was 10.05, whereas the values for the rabbit and rat aortic contractions were 9.36 and 8.13, respectively. The order of mean pA2 values for the inhibition of the rabbit prostatic contraction was KMD-3213 > or = tamsulosin >> prazosin, whereas that for the rabbit and rat aortic contractions was tamsulosin > KMD-3213 > prazosin and tamsulosin > or = prazosin >> KMD-3213, respectively. KMD-3213 produced a sigmoidal inhibition curve for single-dose phenylephrine-induced contractions of rabbit prostate, whereas it produced a non-sigmoidal curve for that of rabbit aorta. KMD-3213 had no effect on isoproterenol-induced chronotropic action in guinea-pig atria, and 5-hydroxytryptamine-, histamine- and acetylcholine-mediated contractions of rabbit aorta. These results indicate that the potency of the inhibitory activity of KMD-3213 depends on the tissue subtype expression and that KMD-3213 preferentially antagonizes prostatic contraction.

A novel benzodiazepine inverse agonist, S-8510, as a cognitive enhancer

1. Pharmacological actions of a novel benzodiazepine receptor ligand, S-8510 (2-(3-isoxazolyl)-3,6,7,9-tetrahydroimidazo[4,5-d]pyrano+ ++[4,3-b] pyridine monophosphate monohydrate), were examined in in vitro and in vivo studies. 2. S-8510 was characterized as a partial inverse agonist with a modest GABA ratio and low efficacy. 3. S-8510 ameliorated memory impairment induced by cholinergic deficit in the water maze paradigm of Wistar rats. 4. S-8510 augmented LTP of the Schaffer collateral/commissural fiber-CA1 synapses in the hippocampal slice preparations of SD rat. 5. S-8510 increased the extracellular levels of acetylcholine and noradrenaline in the hippocampus of Wistar rat. 6. S-8510 selectively potentiated pentylenetetrazol-induced convulsion without affecting minimal electroconvulsive shock- or strychnine-induced convulsion in ddY mice. 7. S-8510 failed to induce any sign of anxiety in the Wistar rat pro-conflict test. 8. S-8510 showed antidepressant-like pharmacological actions in ddY mice. 9. These results suggest that S-8510 can be used as a therapeutic drug for senile dementia, including Alzheimer's disease with little risk for inducing anxiety or convulsion.

Homozygous deletion mutations in the plectin gene (PLEC1) in patients with epidermolysis bullosa simplex associated with late-onset muscular dystrophy

In a distinct autosomal recessive variant of epidermolysis bullosa, EB-MD, life-long skin blistering is associated with late-onset muscular dystrophy of unknown etiology. Electron microscopy of these patients' skin suggests that tissue separation occurs intracellularly at the level of the hemidesmosomal inner plaque, which contains plectin, a high molecular weight cytoskeletal associated protein, also expressed in the sarcolemma of the muscle. In this study, we report two patients with EB-MD, each with a homozygous deletion mutation in the plectin gene, PLEC1. In the first case, the proband and her similarly affected sister had a homozygous 9 bp deletion mutation, designated as 2719de19, which resulted in elimination of three amino acids, QEA, in a sequence of 23 amino acids entirely conserved between the mouse and human sequences. The proband in the second family demonstrated a single nucleotide deletion at position 5866, designated as 5866delC, which resulted in frameshift and a premature termination codon for translation 16 bp downstream from the site of deletion. The absence of plectin in the hemidesmosomes, as reflected by negative immunofluorescence with an anti-plectin antibody (HD-1), associated with fragility of basal keratinocytes, implicates plectin as critical for binding of intermediate keratin filament network to hemidesmosomal complexes. The function of plectin as a putative attachment protein also in the muscle would explain the clinical phenotype consisting of cutaneous fragility and muscular dystrophy in EB-MD.

Craniofacial structure of Japanese and European-American adults with normal occlusions and well-balanced faces

The purpose of this study is to compare two groups of adults from different races who were selected on the basis of having normal ("ideal") occlusions and well-balanced faces. The lateral cephalometric radiographs of 54 Japanese adults (26 men and 28 women) were compared with a sample of 125 adults (44 men and 81 women) of European-American ancestry. The samples were chosen by orthodontists of the same racial background as the sample selected. Each lateral cephalogram was traced and digitized, and differences between cephalometric measurements between groups were analyzed with completely randomized t tests. In comparison to the European-American sample, the Japanese sample, in general, was smaller in anteroposterior facial dimensions and proportionately larger in vertical facial dimensions. The facial axis angle was more vertical in Japanese subjects, indicating a more downward direction of facial development. On average, the subjects in the Japanese sample were more protrusive dentally, with a more acute nasolabial angle and a greater tendency toward bilabial protrusion. These differences, evident even in groups with so-called "well-balanced faces", indicate that fundamental variation exists in the craniofacial structure of Japanese and European-Americans. The results of this study support the premise that a single standard of facial esthetics is not appropriate for application to diverse racial and ethnic groups.

Expression of two different cholecystokinin receptors in Xenopus oocytes injected with mRNA from rabbit pancreas and rat hippocampus

Electrophysiological responses to cholecystokinin (CCK) were studied in Xenopus oocytes injected with mRNA from rabbit pancreas or rat hippocampus. CCK-octapeptide(26-33) (sulfated form) (CCK-8) elicited inward currents in both groups. In oocytes injected with pancreatic mRNA, CCK-8-induced currents were composed of two components, fast and slow. However, in oocytes injected with hippocampal mRNA, fast currents disappeared. The potency ranking of the agonists and the antagonist indicated that the receptors expressed by pancreatic and hippocampal mRNA were CCKA- and CCKB-subtypes, respectively. Extracellular application of EGTA had little effect on the CCKB-mediated response, but attenuated the CCKA-mediated one. Intracellular injection of EGTA abolished the CCKB-mediated response, whereas small smooth currents remained in oocytes expressing the CCKA-receptor. The reversal potentials of the CCKA- and CCKB-receptor-mediated responses were consistent with that for CI- currents. However, the reversal potential of the small smooth currents in EGTA-loaded oocytes expressing the CCKA-receptors was close to that for a non-selective cation channel. These results suggest that CCK-8 activates at least two different channels, a Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- channel and a non-selective cation channel in oocytes expressing the CCKA-receptor, while the CCKB-receptor elicits only a Ca(2+)-dependent Cl- channel.

Acute occlusion of the descending thoracic aorta: report of a case

This report describes the unusual case of an acute occlusion of the descending thoracic aorta in a 52-year-old woman. The patient underwent successful extraanatomical bypass with intraoperative hemodialysis.

Physicochemical characterization of bisphosphonic carboxyfluorescein for osteotropic drug delivery

Disodium (fluorescein-6-carbonyloxy)acetoaminomethylene bisphosphonate (CF-BP), a prodrug of 6-carboxy-fluorescein, is efficiently absorbed by the skeleton where it hydrolyses to carboxyfluorescein. An osteotropic drug-delivery system based on this bisphosphonic prodrug has been developed as a novel method for site-specific and controlled delivery of drugs to the bone. In this study the physicochemical properties of the prodrug have been characterized by investigating the affinity of CF-BP for hydroxyapatite and the hydrolysis of the compound to carboxyfluorescein. In the binding study, CF-BP bound very rapidly to hydroxyapatite without degradation and carboxyfluorescein was subsequently gradually released by hydrolysis of bound CF-BP. Hydrolysis of CF-BP in buffer solutions followed pseudo-first-order kinetics, and quantitative regeneration of carboxyfluorescein was observed. In addition, regeneration of carboxyfluorescein from CF-BP was accelerated in the presence of fresh rat plasma. These results suggest that CF-BP has the physicochemical properties required for site-specific and controlled delivery of carboxyfluorescein to bones.

Leukemoid reaction in epidermal squamous cell carcinoma

There have been no previous concrete reports of leukemoid reactions associated with squamous cell carcinoma originating in cutaneous tissue. Here we report a case of epidermal squamous cell carcinoma of the sacral region and an associated leukemoid reaction. The tumor invaded deeply and destroyed both the sacrum and coccyx. The white blood cell count was greater than 20,000/mm3. After resection of the tumor, white blood cells transiently decreased, but did not fall under 10,000/mm3. Post-operative infection by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Bacteroides caccae caused sepsis and further elevation of the leukocytes to greater than 50,000/mm3. The leukemoid reaction in the case appeared to have been caused initially by direct invasion of bone by epidermal squamous cell carcinoma and later by severe infection.

Antisense evidence for two functionally active forms of nitric oxide synthase in brain microvascular endothelium

Other workers have identified two constitutive forms of NOS in endothelial cells: endothelial or eNOS and neuronal or nNOS. The present study tests the functional significance of these NOS in brain surface arterioles of mice. Antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODN) were injected into the cerebral ventricles. Anti eNOS and anti nNOS were tested separately and in combination. Each antisense reduced the dilation produced by topical acetylcholine (ACh) or by tetrahydrobiopterin (THBP). These are endothelium dependent, NOS dependent dilators, with the THBP being a cofactor for NOS. The endothelium derived mediator actually causing the dilation is EDRF(ACh). When both antisenses were given together there was an additive effect which approached 100% inhibition. Neither sense nor mismatched (scrambled) ODN inhibited either ACh or THBP. Moreover, anti eNOS did not inhibit dilation by bradykinin (endothelium dependent but not NOS dependent) or by sodium nitroprusside (endothelium independent). The data strongly support the conclusion that both eNOS and nNOS are functionally important in the endothelium of mouse pial arterioles. Each isoform of NOS appears to contribute significantly to the synthesis of basally released (THBP triggered) and agonist (ACh) released EDRFACh.

Synthesis and structure--activity relationships of fused imidazopyridines: a new series of benzodiazepine receptor ligands

2-Arylimidazo[4,5-c]quinolines and analogous fused imidazopyridines were synthesized and evaluated as benzodiazepine receptor ligands. Affinity to the receptors was greatly affected by the bulkiness of the aryl group at the 2-position, compared to the pyrazoloquinolines such as CGS-9896. Derivatives with an isoxazole moiety at the 2-position showed high binding affinity and in vivo activity. In the imidazo[4,5-c]quinoline series, substitution at the 6-position decreased or abolished activity. Most derivatives with an unsubstituted isoxazolyl group showed antagonist or inverse agonist activity except for the 7-halo analogues, which exhibited agonist activity. On the other hand, 5-methylisoxazol-3-yl or 3-methylisoxazol-5-yl derivatives generally exhibited agonist activity. A similar substitution effect on the isoxazole moiety was observed in the imidazopyridines fused with a nonaromatic ring. From the detailed pharmacological evaluation, S-8510, 2-(3-isoxazolyl)-3,6,7,9-tetrahydroimidazo[4,5-d]pyrano++ +[4,3-b]pyridine monophosphate, possessing weak inverse agonist activity was selected as a therapeutic candidate for the treatment of some symptoms of senile dementia.

Clinical evaluation of the efficacy of an antithrombin agent "Argatroban" combined with exercise therapy on increase of the skeletal muscle blood flow

Argatroban has selective antithrombin activity and widely used for treatment of ASO. In this study we investigated vasodilating activity of Argatroban besides antithrombin activity in ASO patients. Three patients who have undergone F-P bypasses previously which were all occluded received 10 mg or 20 mg of Argatroban per day intravenously for 4 weeks. Skin temperature were measured before and after administration of Argatroban at the point of 1, 2, 4 weeks which increased 2.3-6.0 degrees C after administration of Argatroban. Subjective symptoms were also improved and these patients became to be able to walk 1.5-3.3 km. These patients were also given PGE, intravenously, however, temperature increase was less than 1.1 degrees C. These results showed that Argatroban has not only antithrombin activity but also significant vasodilating activity resulting in increase of skeletal muscle blood flow.

Details of retropositional genome dynamics that provide a rationale for a generic division: the distinct branching of all the pacific salmon and trout (Oncorhynchus) from the Atlantic salmon and trout (Salmo)

Salmonid species contain numerous short interspersed repetitive elements (SINEs), known collectively as the HpaI family, in their genomes. Amplification and successive integration of individual SINEs into the genomes have occurred during the evolution of salmonids. We reported previously a strategy for determining the phylogenetic relationships among the Pacific salmonids in which these SINEs were used as temporal landmarks of evolution. Here, we provide evidence for extensive genomic rearrangements that involved retropositions and deletions in a common ancestor of all the Pacific salmon and trout. Our results provide genetic support for the recent phylogenetic reassignment of steelhead and related species from the genus Salmo to the genus Oncorhynchus. Several other informative loci identified by insertions of HpaI SINEs have been isolated, and previously proposed branching orders of the Oncorhynchus species have been confirmed. The authenticity of our phylogenetic tree is supported both by the isolation of more than two informative loci per branching point and by the congruence of all our data, which suggest that the period between successive speciations was sufficiently long for each SINE that had been amplified in the original species to become fixed in all individuals of that species.