Notch-dependent cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in mouse embryonic fibroblasts lacking Fbxw7

The F-box protein Fbxw7 mediates the ubiquitylation and consequent degradation of proteins that regulate cell cycle progression, including cyclin E, c-Myc, c-Jun and Notch. Moreover, certain human cancer cell lines harbor loss-of-function mutations in FBXW7 that result in excessive accumulation of Fbxw7 substrates, implicating Fbxw7 in tumor suppression. To elucidate the physiological function of Fbxw7, we conditionally ablated Fbxw7 in mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs). Unexpectedly, loss of Fbxw7 induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis that were accompanied by abnormal accumulation of the intracellular domain of Notch1 (NICD1). Forced expression of NICD1 in wild-type MEFs recapitulated the phenotype of the Fbxw7-deficient (Fbxw7(Delta/Delta)) MEFs. Conversely, deletion of Rbpj normalized the phenotype of Fbxw7(Delta/Delta) MEFs, indicating that this phenotype is dependent on the Notch1-RBP-J signaling pathway. Deletion of the p53 gene prevented cell cycle arrest but not the induction of apoptosis in Fbxw7(Delta/Delta) cells. These observations suggest that Fbxw7 does not function as an oncosuppressor in MEFs. Instead, it promotes cell cycle progression and cell survival through degradation of Notch1, with loss of Fbxw7 resulting in NICD1 accumulation, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

Objective recognition of vascular lesions in Mondor's disease by immunohistochemistry

BACKGROUND

Mondor's disease (MD) is considered an inflammatory condition of superficial vasculitis that develops mainly in the anterolateral thoracoabdominal wall. The pathogenesis of the disease has been controversial, however, because of the lack of histopathologic methods for differentiating between the small vein and the lymphatic vessel.

AIM

To objectively examine the origin of vascular lesions in MD, we investigated the endothelial cells of their blood and lymphatic vessels.

METHODS

Immunohistochemical examinations were carried out on specimens involving vascular lesions from 16 patients with MD, using antibodies against von Willebrand factor and human lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor-1, which specifically discriminate between lymphatic and blood vessels.

RESULTS

The histopathologic findings clearly showed thrombophlebitis in 14 patients, a lesion originating in the lymphatic vessel in one patient, and sclerosis that consisted of the artery together with veins in another.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that almost all cases of MD are due to thrombophlebitis, with a small minority due to lymphangitis or other conditions. We believe this study will contribute to the better recognition of the factual changes in the condition designated MD.

The expression of TNF-alpha converting enzyme at the site of ruptured plaques in patients with acute myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) converting enzyme (TACE) plays an essential role in the TNF-alpha shedding process, which could affect the outcome of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). However, it remains unclear whether it originates from the ruptured plaque or represents a systemic process. This study analysed TACE-mediated TNF-alpha shedding at the site of ruptured plaques in AMI patients and compared them with a systemic mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 60 patients with AMI who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and 21 patients with stable angina pectoris (SA). Local samples from the site of plaque were taken from AMI using aspiration catheter treatment. Systemic samples were also taken from the aorta in all patients with AMI and SA.

RESULTS

Systemic levels of TACE and TNF-alpha were higher in AMI patients than in SA patients. In AMI patients, these levels were higher in local samples than in systemic samples. A positive correlation was seen between local TACE and TNF-alpha levels in AMI patients. Thrombus material removed from the ruptured plaque showed immunostainings of TACE and TNF-alpha in infiltrating macrophages. By six months follow-up study, local TACE levels remained the only significant independent predictors of adverse cardiac events in AMI patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that local expression of TACE is related to TNF-alpha shedding at the site of ruptured plaques in AMI patients. In addition, local TACE expression at the site of ruptured plaques may play an important role in poor outcomes in patients with AMI.

Lymphangiogenesis in myocardial remodelling after infarction

Ishikawa Y, Akishima-Fukasawa Y, Ito K, Akasaka Y, Tanaka M, Shimokawa R, Kimura-Matsumoto M, Morita H, Sato S, Kamata I & Ishii T (2007) Histopathology51, 345–353

Lymphangiogenesis in myocardial remodelling after infarction

Back extensor strength and lumbar spinal mobility are predictors of quality of life in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis

To assess the effect of multiple factors on quality of life (QOL) in osteoporosis, relationships between the QOL and possible spinal factors were analyzed in 174 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. Back extensor strength and lumbar spinal mobility were the most important factors for QOL in these patients.

INTRODUCTION

Quality of life (QOL) in patients with osteoporosis and vertebral fractures is impaired by the decline of total spinal mobility, although it is not clear to what extent. This study aimed to assess the effect of multiple factors on QOL in patients with osteoporosis.

METHODS

QOL of 174 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis (mean, 68 years old) was evaluated using the Japanese Osteoporosis QOL Questionnaire (JOQOL). Correlations between the JOQOL score, bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine/proximal femur/whole body, the kyphosis angle and mobility of thoracic and lumbar spine, the number of vertebral fractures, grip strengths of dominant and non-dominant hands, and isometric back extensor strength (BES) were analyzed.

RESULTS

JOQOL showed significant correlation (p < 0.05) with age (r = -0.303), BES (r = 0.455), dominant and non-dominant grip strengths (r = 0.273 and r = 0.255, respectively), number of vertebral fractures (r = -0.282), BMDs of proximal femur and whole body (r = 0.200 and r = 0.157, respectively), lumbar kyphosis angle (r = -0.296), and lumbar spinal mobility (r = 0.345). Multiple regression analysis revealed that the BES and lumbar spinal mobility were the significant contributors to the JOQOL (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

BES and lumbar spinal mobility are the important factors for QOL in patients with postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Complete removal of a bronchial granular cell tumor by bronchoplasty

A rare case of bronchial granular cell tumor (GCT) arising in the right upper bronchus is presented here, which was completely resected by sleeve lobectomy. The 46-year-old female patient had a three-month history of severe dry coughing, and multimodality imaging revealed a 20 mm-sized GCT of the right upper bronchial orifice. Since endoscopic treatment appeared to be impossible, she underwent right upper sleeve lobectomy and the lesion could be completely removed.

Deletion of entire HLA-A gene accompanied by an insertion of a retrotransposon

Unusual HLA-A'null' alleles because of an entire gene deletion were found in three apparently unrelated Japanese families with leukemia patients. Inclusion of the entire HLA-A gene in the deletion was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction direct sequencing of the surrounding regions of HLA-A. Further localization of the breakpoints of the HLA-A deletion at the centromeric and telomeric sides was performed, and these families were shown to possess the identical deletion. We then determined the genomic sequence of the HLA-A-deleted haplotype. Surprisingly, the haplotype turned out to carry an insertion of an SVA (SINE-VNTR-Alu) retrotransposon of 2 kb as well as the 14 kb deletion that included the entire HLA-A gene.

Epithelioid Variant of Pleomorphic Liposarcoma in a Heifer

A case of epithelioid variant of liposarcoma in a 31-month-old Japanese Black heifer is described. The tumour mass, which formed in the subcutis of the left cheek, was excised surgically, but this was followed by recurrence and metastasis to lymph nodes. The primary tumour was composed of sheets of lipid-laden cells, and anaplastic larger cells with eosinophilic or amphophilic cytoplasm were occasionally seen. In addition to vimentin and S-100 protein expression in the majority of tumour cells, squamous and non-squamous cytokeratins (CKs) were present, mainly in the larger cells, which predominated in the metastatic lesions. The expression of CKs was considered to be evidence of epithelioid differentiation.

Adenosquamous carcinoma with cilium formation, mucin production and keratinization in the nasal cavity of a red fox (Vulpes vulpes schrencki)

A diagnosis of adenosquamous carcinoma was made in an 11-year-old red fox. The animal showed emaciation and purulent nasal discharge. Necropsy revealed diffuse thickening of the nasal mucosa and tumours on the soft palate, and there was an oronasal fistula contiguous with the tumours. The nasal and oral lesions were composed of adenocarcinomatous cells and squamous cells, the latter predominating in the oral lesions. The marrow of the palatine bone also contained neoplastic tissue, which consisted of cysts and keratin masses surrounded by well-differentiated squamous cells. Although inconspicuous in the oral cavity and marrow, ciliated cells with or without mucin were observed in the adenocarcinomatous and cystic elements. Neoplastic basal cells and less-differentiated adenocarcinoma cells, which were identifiable by immunolabelling for cytokeratin 5 (CK5) and CK18, were considered to be pluripotential. These cells, which lined tubular structures, were distinct from intermediate cells in mucoepidermoid carcinoma, which can differentiate into squamous and mucin-producing cells but have a nondescript appearance.

Prognostic value of preoperative serum tumor markers, including CEA, Cyfra21–1, SCC, CA19–9, SCC, CA125, TPA, NSE, and SLX, in patients with completely resected pathological stage I non-small cell lung cancer

7681

Background: Recent randomized control trials have shown a survival benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with stage II or more advanced NSCLC, while surgery alone is still the standard therapy for stage I patients. There is, however, a subgroup of patients among the stage I patients who have a poor prognosis, for whom adjuvant chemotherapy can be as effective as has been observed for the patients with more advanced disease. Preoperative serum CEA level has been reported to be an independent prognostic factor for stage I NSCLC. However, many other tumor markers have also been reported as prognostic indicators in different studies using different tumor markers. It is unknown which tumor marker is the most effective for selecting poor prognostic subgroup of patients with stage I NSCLC for which adjuvant chemotherapy can be applied. Methods: A total of 355 patients underwent complete resection, and were diagnosed as having stage I NSCLC from 1995 to 2003. Analyzed tumor markers included CEA, Cyfra21–1, SCC, CA19–9, SCC, CA125, TPA, NSE, and SLX. Cut-off values for each tumor marker are listed in the table . Clinicopathologic factors including age, gender, histology, vessel invasion, pleural invasion, and pathologic T indicator are also analyzed in the multivariate analysis. Results: Among the 355 patients, 211 patients were male, 249 had adenocarcinoma, 82 had squamous cell carcinoma, and 253 had pathologic T1 tumors. Percentages of elevated value for each tumor marker are listed in the table in combination with related survival data. Cox proportional hazard model demonstrated age, pleural invasion, histology, and CEA were significantly independent prognostic factors. Conclusions: CEA is thought to be the best tumor marker for selecting the poor prognostic subgroup of patients with resected stage I NSCLC because of its high percentage of abnormal value and high ability to differentiate prognostic subgroups.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

[Table: see text]

Phase II trial of gemcitabine and irinotecan in previously treated patients with small-cell lung cancer

7718

Background: Gemcitabine and irinotecan has been shown to have an antitumor activity as a single agent against previously treated SCLC. The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of gemcitabine combined with irinotecan in patients with refractory or relapsed SCLC. Methods: Patients with histologically or cytologically confirmed SCLC, 20 to 74 years in age, performance status 0–2, with a history of receiving one platinum-based chemotherapy were eligible for the study. Treatment consisted of gemcitabine (1,000 mg/m2) and irinotecan (150 mg/m2) on days 1 and 15 of a 28-day cycle.The primary endpoint was the response rate (RR), and planned sample size for this phase II study was 30 patients (Simon's two-stage minimax design). Results: Thirty-one patients were enrolled and 30 patients (24 males/6 females, 10 refractory/20 sensitive, median age, 65 years) receive protocol treatment in this phase II trial. The median treatment cycles were 3 (1–10). The overall response rates was obtained in 39.3% (95% CI: 18.1% to 60.5%) of the patients, including two patients with refractory disease and 9 patients with sensitive disease. The median overall survival time was 14.4 months, and the 1-year survival rate was 51%. The median survival time of the patients with refractory disease was 7.4 months, compared with 14.4 months for patients with sensitive disease. The chief grade 3/4 toxicities included neutropenia (42%), thrombocytopenia (3%), diarrhea (9%), and liver dysfunction (3%). The only grade 4 toxicities were one case of grade 4 neutropenia (3.3%) and one case of grade 4 thrombocytopenia (3.3%). Conclusion: Gemcitabine plus irinotecan is an active regimen that seems to be well- tolerated by patients with previously treated SCLC.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Combined neoadjuvant weekly paclitaxel and trastuzumab for HER2-overexpressing breast cancer

3045

Background: The purpose of this study is to determine the clinical efficacy of neoadjuvant paclitaxel and trastuzumab in women with advanced breast cancer, with or without metastatic disease. Methods: Patients with HER2-positive breast cancer (clinical stage IIB-IV) were included in this study. The patients received trastuzumab 4mg/kg loading dose intravenously then 2mg/kg weekly and concurrently paclitaxel 80mg/m2 (Day 1, 8, 15) weekly for 4 cycles followed by surgery. Results: Preliminary results from 15 patients are reported. Of these, six patients (40%) had a clinical complete response and nine patients (60%) a clinical partial response. Fourteen of 15 patients received surgery; eight breast-conserving surgery and six modified radical mastectomy. Six patients (43%) had pathological complete response. With a median follow-up of 19 months (range, 5–32 months), these 15 patients are alive. Patients with clinical stage IIB-III breast cancer are alive without any distant metastasis. Conclusion: Combined neoadjuvant weekly paclitaxel and trastuzumab had high clinical and pathological response rates for HER2 overexpressing breast cancer.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

A feasibility study of adjuvant carboplatin (C) plus gemcitabine (G) in completely resected stage IB-III non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)

18158

Background: In recent randomized phase III trials in early-stage NSCLC, cisplatin-based adjuvant chemotherapy resulted in a 4.1–15% 5-year survival benefit versus observation. However, only 56–74% of patients completed planned treatment, suggestive of poor compliance. C plus G (CG), one of the standard regimens for advanced NSCLC, is considered more tolerable than other platinum-based regimens because it is associated with less nausea/vomiting, sensory neuropathy, and alopecia. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and safety of adjuvant CG in patients with completely resected NSCLC. Methods: Eligibility criteria included histologically confirmed NSCLC, age 20–74 years, complete surgical resection, post-operative pathological stage IB-III, 4–8 weeks post-surgery, ECOG performance status (PS) 0–1, adequate organ function, and informed consent. Patients were treated with adjuvant CG (C, AUC=5 on day 1; G, 1,000 mg/m2 on days 1 and 8) every 3 weeks for 4 cycles. The primary endpoint was treatment compliance, and the planned sample size was 35 patients (Simon’s minimax design). Results: From October 2004 to July 2006, 35 patients (17 males, 18 females; median age, 64 years) were enrolled. All patients had PS=0. Histologic types included adenocarcinoma (n=27), squamous cell carcinoma (n=3), large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (n=3), large cell carcinoma (n=1), and adenosquamous carcinoma (n=1). Pathological stages included stage IB (n=7), stage IIA (n=7), stage IIB (n=4), stage IIIA (n=13), and stage IIIB (n=4). Resection consisted of lobectomy (n=33) and pneumonectomy (n=2). All patients received =2 cycles of chemotherapy, with 29 patients (83%) completing 3 or 4 cycles. Primary G3/4 toxicities were leukopenia (51%), neutropenia (83%), thrombocytopenia (71%), and anemia (38%). Nonhematologic toxicities were very mild: 6% G3/4 febrile neutropenia, 3% infection, and 3% rash. No treatment-related deaths occurred. Conclusion: Adjuvant CG in patients with completely resected NSCLC is well tolerated, and treatment compliance is very good.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Genogrouping of Vaccine Breakdown Strains (VBS) of Feline Calicivirus in Japan

Although prevention of feline calcivirus (FCV) infection by vaccination has been attempted, and isolation of FCV, development of the disease, and a few fatal cases in vaccinated cats have been reported. Fifteen FCV strains isolated from cats that had been vaccinated with commercially available FCV vaccines (F9, FCV-255, and FC-7) were genogrouped. Molecular analysis of viral genomes involved the construction of a phylogenetic tree of capsid genes using the NJ method. Cat anti-F9 serum and rabbit anti-FCV-255 serum were used for virus neutralization tests. Molecular phylogenetic analysis of the amino acid sequences of 15 virus isolates and those of the previously published and GenBank-deposited 9 global and 14 Japanese strains showed that 8 (53%) of the 15 virus isolates as well as the vaccine strains F9 and FCV-255 belonged to genogroup I (G(A)I), and 7 (47%) belonged to genogroup II (G(A)II). Of the 8 G(A)I strains, 2 were isolated from cats that had been vaccinated with an F9 strain live vaccine, 5 from cats vaccinated with an FCV-255-derived vaccine, and 1 from a cat vaccinated with an FC-7-derived vaccine. Of the 7 GAll strains, 5 were isolated from cats that had been vaccinated with the F9 strain live vaccine, 1 from a cat vaccinated with the FCV-255-derived vaccine, and 1 from a cat vaccinated with the FC-7-derived vaccine. These results indicate that more vaccine breakdown strains isolated from the cats vaccinated with the F9 strain-derived vaccine belong to G(A)II than to G(A)I, whereas more vaccine breakdown strains isolated from the cats vaccinated with the FCV-255 strain-derived vaccine belong to G(A)I than to G(A)II, and that when the FC-7 strain-derived vaccine is used, the vaccine breakdown strains belong almost equally to G(A)I and G(A)II. Thus, the genogroups of virus isolates varied with the vaccine strain used (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the neutralizing titres of feline anti-F9 serum and rabbit anti-FCV-255 serum against the 15 isolates were very low, showing no relationships between neutralizing antibody titres and genogroups. The DNA sequence identities between the virus isolates and the vaccine strains were low, at 70.6-82.9%, and no strains were found to have sequences derived from the vaccine strains. Alignment of amino acid sequences showed that the G(A)I or G(A)II virus isolates from the F9-vaccinated cats differed at position 428 of the 5' hypervariable region (HVR) of capsid region of the F9 strain, whereas those from the FCV-255-vaccinated cats differed at positions 438, 453, and 460 of the 5'HVR of capsid region E of the F9 strain. We speculate that these differences influence genogrouping. The amino acid changes within the F9 linear epitopes common to G(A)I and G(A)II were noted at positions 450, 451, 457 of 5'HVR of the capsid region E in the isolates from F9-derived vaccine-treated cats, and 449, 450, and 451 of 5'HVR of capsid region E in the isolates from FCV-255-derived vaccine-treated cats, suggesting that these amino acid changes are involved in escapes. These results suggest that alternate vaccination with the F9 and FCV-255 strains or the use of a polyvalent vaccine containing GAll strains serves to inhibit development.

The human renal lymphatics under normal and pathological conditions

Ishikawa Y, Akasaka Y, Kiguchi H, Akishima-Fukasawa Y, Hasegawa T, Ito K, Kimura-Matsumoto M, Ishiguro S, Morita H, Sato S, Soh S & Ishii T (2006) Histopathology49, 265–273

The human renal lymphatics under normal and pathological conditions

Genetic instability in lung cancer: concurrent analysis of chromosomal, mini- and microsatellite instability and loss of heterozygosity

To investigate what kind of genetic instability plays important roles in lung carcinogenesis, we analyzed micro- and minisatellite instability, loss of heterozygosity (LOH) and chromosome instability in 55 cases of lung cancer, including, 10 squamous cell, 5 large cell, and 3 small cell carcinomas, and 37 adenocarcinomas. Analysis of minisatellite instability, the mechanism of which is different from microsatellite instability, has not been reported previously. Minisatellite instability was detected in only one case (1/55, 1.8%), and the frequency of microsatellite instability was low, being found only in three cases (3/55, 5.5%). In contrast, LOH, for at least in one locus, was observed in 27 cases (49.1%). In adenocarcinomas, the frequency of LOH was higher in poorly differentiated compared to more differentiated carcinomas. For chromosome instability, a similar correlation between differentiation grade and instability was observed in adenocarcinomas. And instability was more common in large cell and small cell carcinomas than in adenocarcinomas. Our analysis showed that chromosome instability and LOH, rather than mini- and microsatellite instability, play significant roles in the development of lung cancer.

Detection of epidermal growth factor receptor mutation in transbronchial aspiration cytology of non-small cell lung cancer

7175

Background: Somatic mutations of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) strongly associate with objective response to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors. There are some problems to practically use it as prognostic markers. Since it is difficult to obtain sufficient tumor samples from non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients, they are often diagnosed by cytological procedure alone. Therefore, it is very useful if EGFR mutations are able to be detected in cytological samples. The aims of this study are to detect EGFR mutations in the samples of transbronchial aspiration cytology (TBAC) by using direct sequencing and Scorpion ARMS method, and to compare the sensitivities of these methods. Patients and Methods: 94 patients diagnosed as NSCLC in our institute were enrolled in this study, consisting of 63 males and 31 females with a median age of 66. In cytologic diagnosis, they were adenocarcinoma in 58, squamous carcinoma in 24, and the others in 12. DNA was extracted from the TBAC samples, and EGFR mutations were analyzed using direct sequencing (exon 19 and exon 21) and Scorpion ARMS method (E746-A750del and L858R). Results: The mutations were detected in 31patients (33%). 13 mutations (14%) (E746-A750del; 6 patients, L858R; 7 patients) were detected by direct sequencing. 27 mutations (29%) (E746-A750del; 16 patients, L858R; 11 patients) were detected by Scorpion ARMS method. Conclusion: EGFR mutations were able to be detected in TBAC samples by both methods. Scorpion ARMS method is more sensitive for the detection of EGFR mutations than direct sequencing.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Serum levels of administered gefitinib correlate with the time to treatment failure in non small cell lung cancer patients

17027

Background: Gefitinib, an inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase, has been shown to have clinical activity against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The aim of the present study was to clarify the relationship between serum gefitinib levels and clinical efficacy in patients with advanced NSCLCs. Methods and Results: Sera from 89 cases (51 men and 38 women) were obtained after 2 weeks gefitinib (250 mg/day) monotherapy. The average gefitinib level was 429.4 ± 214.8 ng/ml (mean ± SD) with 17-fold variability observed. No significant variation was observed with reference to gender, smoking history or performance status. There was no direct link between gefitinib level and tumor response, but a significant positive correlation was evident with time to treatment failure in 44 patients receiving gefitinib for more than 3 months (R = 0.365, P = 0.0144). Conclusions: These results suggested that a dose response may exist for time treatment failure in the patients who benefit from gefitinib. Dose modification in accordance with the serum gefitinib level may thus improve the efficacy of gefitinib for NSCLCs.

[Table: see text]

Variation in mitochondrial COII gene sequences among two species of Japanese knotweed-boring moths, Ostrinia latipennis and O. ovalipennis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

The Ostrinia latipennis group contains two species, O. latipennis (Warren) and O. ovalipennis Ohno. These two species commonly utilize perennial knotweeds (Fallopia spp.) as their host plants, which are serious invasive weeds in Europe and North America. Ostrinia latipennis is widely distributed across north-east Asia including Japan whereas O. ovalipennis is restricted to north Japan (Hokkaido Is.) and highland areas of central Japan (Nagano Prefecture in Honshu Is.). To estimate the phylogenetic relatedness and geographical differentiation of the two species, mitochondrial COII gene sequences were determined for specimens covering their distribution ranges in Japan. The uncorrected sequence divergence between O. latipennis and O. ovalipennis was 0.6-0.7%, supporting a close relationship. According to the standard molecular clock proposed for arthropod mtDNA, the two species are speculated to have diverged about 0.3 Myr ago. A single COII gene haplotype was found in O. latipennis irrespective of collection locality. In contrast, two haplotypes were found in O. ovalipennis, and their frequencies were significantly different between the Hokkaido and Honshu populations. The patterns of geographical variation in the COII gene within the two species were in agreement with previously reported patterns of geographical differentiation in morphology of the two species in Japan. The present results support the hypothesis that gene flow among local populations of O. ovalipennis has been limited by geographical isolation.

Detection of Feline calicivirus (FCV) from Vaccinated Cats and Phylogenetic Analysis of its Capsid Genes

We analysed genogroups of four feline calcivirus (FCV) isolates (FCV-S, H10, Ao198-1 and ML89) obtained from cats that experienced FCV infection after having been vaccinated against FCV. New PCR primer sets (8F/8R, Ao-S/Ao-A, cp-S/cp-A) were also designed, since the conventional Seal primer failed to amplify the target sequences in two samples. The genogroups of the four isolates as well as eight global and 17 domestic strains were determined by phylogenetic analysis of their amino acid sequences. One out of the four strains (25%) isolated in this study, H10, was grouped into genogroup I, along with the vaccine strains F9 and FCV-255. The other three isolates (75%) belonged to genogroup II. Thus, there were more isolates in genogroup II than in genogroup I. However, the antibody values of the four isolates against cat anti-F9 antisera were significantly decreased. There may be no relationship between the neutralizing antibody titre and genogroup. Amino acid sequence alignment of the four isolates showed that only a single amino acid in region C, which is involved in neutralization epitopes, was different in ML89 strain from that of F9. The other three strains, H10, Ao198-1 and FCV-B, shared the same amino acid sequence with F9. Alignment of amino acids for linear epitopes in the F9 strain, which are located at regions D and E, showed variations in 5' hypervariable region (HVR) of E, whereas D and conE had only synonymous substitutions i.e. no change in the amino acid sequence. This mutation in 5' HVR of region E suggested a vaccine breakdown, as the region is known to be essential for antigenicity. The genogroup II FCV is likely to be the cause of the FCV infection in this study, while the vaccine strains belong to genogroup I. Thus, the existing vaccine may need reevaluation for its effectiveness.

Genetic manipulation and functional analysis of cAMP signalling in cardiac muscle: implications for a new target of pharmacotherapy

Adenylate cyclase is a membrane-bound enzyme that catalyses the conversion of ATP into cAMP upon activation of cell-surface G-protein-coupled receptors, such as beta-adrenergic receptors, and initiates a cascade of phosphorylation reactions within the cell. Type 5 adenylate cyclase is a major isoform in the heart as well as in the striatum of the brain. Mice with a disrupted type 5 adenylate cyclase gene exhibited normal cardiac function under basal conditions, but a decreased response to isoprenaline stimulation. When mice were subjected to pressure overload stress with aortic banding, they developed cardiac hypertrophy, but with a significant reduction in the number of apoptotic cardiac myocytes as well as preserved cardiac function. When type 5 adenylate cyclase activity was inhibited pharmacologically, by the use of a novel P-site inhibitor with enhanced selectivity for this isoform, there were no changes in cardiac myocyte contractility, but the development of cardiac myocyte apoptosis induced by isoprenaline stimulation was effectively prevented. These results indicate that type 5 adenylate cyclase may serve as a better target of pharmacotherapy to prevent the development of cardiac myocyte apoptosis and thus failure in response to various cardiac stresses.

Search for novel gene markers of traumatic brain injury by time differential microarray analysis

Neuronal and glial cell death caused by axonal injury sometimes contributes to whole brain pathology after traumatic brain injury (TBI). We show that neuroprotection by 2 types of immunosuppressants, cyclosporin A (CsA) and tacrolimus (FK506), in a cryogenic brain injury model results from inhibition of calcineurin and protection from mitochondrial damage caused by formation of a mitochondrial permeability transition pore induced by cyclophilin D (CyPD), one of the prolyl cis/trans isomerase family members. We evaluated why CsA is neuroprotective by microarray analysis of gene expression in the cryogenic brain injury rat model. Analyses of expression patterns demonstrated that expression of over 14,000 genes changed between the groups with and without CsA treatment, and about 350 genes among them were extracted showing a significant difference. We learned that the differential expression of several gene targets showed specific patterns in a time-dependent manner. These results may help elucidate the mechanisms of neuronal cell death after TBI and the neuroprotective effects of CsA after TBI.

Effects of 24R,25- and 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on mineralizing growth plate chondrocytes

Time- and dosage-dependent effects of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) and 24,25(OH)(2)D(3) on primary cultures of pre- and post-confluent avian growth plate (GP) chondrocytes were examined. Cultures were grown in either a serum-containing culture medium designed to closely mimic normal GP extracellular fluid (DATP5) or a commercially available serum-free media (HL-1) frequently used for studying skeletal cells. Hoechst DNA, Lowry protein, proteoglycan (PG), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and calcium and phosphate mineral deposition in the extracellular matrix were measured. In preconfluent cultures grown in DATP5, physiological levels of 24,25(OH)(2)D(3) (0.10-10 nM) increased DNA, protein, and LDH activity significantly more than did 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) (0.01-1.0 nM). However, in HL-1, the reverse was true. Determining ratios of LDH and PG to DNA, protein, and each other, revealed that 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) specifically increased PG, whereas 24,25(OH)(2)D(3) increased LDH. Post-confluent cells were generally less responsive, especially to 24,25(OH)(2)D(3). The positive anabolic effects of 24,25(OH)(2)D(3) required serum-containing GP-fluid-like culture medium. In contrast, effects of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) were most apparent in serum-free medium, but were still significant in serum-containing media. Administered to preconfluent cells in DATP5, 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) caused rapid, powerful, dosage-dependent inhibition of Ca(2+) and Pi deposition. The lowest level tested (0.01 nM) caused >70% inhibition during the initial stages of mineral deposition; higher levels of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) caused progressively more profound and persistent reductions. In contrast, 24,25(OH)(2)D(3) increased mineral deposition 20-50%; it required >1 week, but the effects were specific, persistent, and largely dosage-independent. From a physiological perspective, these effects can be explained as follows: 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) levels rise in hypocalcemia; it stimulates gut absorption and releases Ca(2+) from bone to correct this deficiency. We now show that 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) also conserves Ca(2+) by inhibiting mineralization. The slow anabolic effects of 24,25(OH)(2)D(3)are consistent with its production under eucalcemic conditions which enable bone formation. These findings, which implicate serum-binding proteins and accumulation of PG in modulating accessibility of the metabolites to GP chondrocytes, also help explain some discrepancies previously reported in the literature.

Tissue-equivalent TL sheet dosimetry system for X- and gamma-ray dose mapping

To measure dose distribution for X- and gamma rays simply and accurately, a tissue-equivalent thermoluminescent (TL) sheet-type dosemeter and reader system were developed. The TL sheet is composed of LiF:Mg,Cu,P and ETFE polymer, and the thickness is 0.2 mm. For the TL reading, a square heating plate, 20 cm on each side, was developed, and the temperature distribution was measured with an infrared thermal imaging camera. As a result, linearity within 2% and the homogeneity within 3% were confirmed. The TL signal emitted is detected using a CCD camera and displayed as a spatial dose distribution. Irradiation using synchrotron radiation between 10 and 100 keV and (60)Co gamma rays showed that the TL sheet dosimetry system was promising for radiation dose mapping for various purposes.

Chloronaphthalenes composition of several batches of Halowax 1051

Halowax 1051 is the highest chlorinated technical chloronaphthalene mixture among seven known formulations of the Halowax series. Octa- and heptaCN homologue groups are the main CN constituents of Halowax 1051 with declared 90% and 10% contents, respectively. In this study, using an isotope dilution technique and HRGC/HRMS, octaCN and heptaCNs contents of six batches of Halowax 1051 were between 82-93% and 6.2-17%, respectively. Also mono- to hexaCNs were found in Halowax 1051, and their content more or less varied according to the batch; also, the abundance of a particular CN congeners varied. Tetra-, penta- and hexaCNs have been found in all six batches of Halowax 1051 examined, and their contents varied between 0.0024-0.77%, 0.031-0.22%, and 0.21-0.82%, respectively. TriCNs have been found in three of six batches, and mono- and diCNs in two of six batches with 0.0020-0.40, 0.0017-0.25 and 0.0012-0.34% for positive findings, respectively. 2,3-DiCN (no. 10), 1,8-diCN (no. 9) at < 0.0002 mg/g, 1,6,7-/2,3,6-triCNs (nos. 25/26), 1,3,8-triCN (no. 22) at < 0.0002 mg/g, 1,3,6,7-tetra (no. 44), 1,2,3,6-tetra- (no. 29), 1,2,7,8-tetraCN (no. 41) and 1,2,3,6,7,9-hexaCN (no. 70) at < 0.0005 mg/g have not been found in Halowax 1051.

HRGC/HRMS analysis of chloronaphthalenes in several batches of Halowax 1000, 1001, 1013, 1014 and 1099

Chloronaphthalene (CN) congeners and homologue groups have been quantified in up to three batches of several types of technical CN formulations of the Halowax series (Halowax 1031, 1000, 1001, 1013, 1014 and 1099), to elucidate possible batch-to-batch compositional variations. Using isotope dilution and HRGC/HRMS a relatively large variation in CN congeners and homologues composition among the batches of particular types of the Halowax formulations could be noted, and also when compared to the composition declared by the manufacturer. Depending on the type of the Halowax formulation and its batch in total up to 54 peaks from chloronaphthalenes (Agilent Ultra 2 liquid phase), which represented 70 of 75 CN congeners theoretically possible, could be found in these mixtures. These congeners represented all CN homologue groups from mono- to octaCN but some co-eluted. A co-eluting congeners were such as: 1,4-/1,6- (nos. 5/7), 1,5-/2,7- (nos. 6/12), 2,6-1,7- (nos. 11/8) of diCNs; 1,3,6-/1,3,5- (nos. 20/19), 1,3,7-/1,4,6- (nos. 23/24), 1,6,7-/2,3,6- (nos. 25/26) of triCNs; 1,2,5,7-/1,2,4,6-/1,2,4,7- (nos. 37/33/34), 1,3,6,8-/1,2,5,6- (nos. 45/36), 1,2,3,5-/1,3,5,8- (nos. 28/43), 1,2,3,4-/1,2,3,7- (nos. 27/30), 1,2,5,8-/1,2,6,8- (nos. 38/40) of tetraCNs; 1,2,3,5,7-/1,2,4,6,7- (nos. 52/60), 1,2,3,5,8-/1,2,3,6,8- (nos. 53/55) of pentaCNs; 1,2,3,4,6,7-/1,2,3,5,6,7- (nos. 66/67), 1,2,3,4,5,7-/1,2,3,5,6,8- (64/68) and 1,2,4,5,6,8-/1,2,4,5,7,8- (nos. 71/72) of hexaCNs. Absent in the Halowaxes were CN congeners such as 1,3,8-triCN (no. 22) (<0.0002 mg/g), 1,3,6,7-tetraCN (no. 44), 1,2,3,6-TetraCN (no. 29), 1,2,3,6,7-pentaCN (no. 54) and 1,2,3,6,7,8-hexaCN (no. 70) (<0.0005 mg/g).

Family-based association analysis implicates IL-4 in susceptibility to Kawasaki disease

Several compelling lines of evidence suggest an important influence of genetic variation in susceptibility to Kawasaki disease (KD), an acute vasculitis that causes coronary artery aneurysms in children. We performed a family-based genotyping study to test for association between KD and 58 genes involved in cardiovascular disease and inflammation. By analysis of a cohort of 209 KD trios using the transmission disequilibrium test, we documented the asymmetric transmission of five alleles including the interleukin-4 (IL-4) C(-589)T allele (P=0.03). Asymmetric transmission of the IL-4 C(-589)T was replicated in a second, independent cohort of 60 trios (P=0.05, combined P=0.002). Haplotypes of alleles in IL-4, colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2), IL-13, and transcription factor 7 (TCF7), all located in the interleukin gene cluster on 5q31, were also asymmetrically transmitted. The reported associations of KD with atopic dermatitis and allergy, elevated serum IgE levels, eosinophilia, and increased circulating numbers of monocyte/macrophages expressing the low-affinity IgE receptor (FCepsilonR2) may be related to effects of IL-4. Thus, the largest family-based genotyping study of KD patients to date suggests that genetic variation in the IL-4 gene, or regions linked to IL-4, plays an important role in KD pathogenesis and disease susceptibility.

The expression of the HSP90 gene in response to winter and summer diapauses and thermal-stress in the onion maggot, Delia antiqua

The full-length Hsp90 cDNA in Delia antiqua was cloned and sequenced. The deduced polypeptide comprised 717 amino acid residues, with a molecular mass of 82 140 Da. Summer- and winter-diapauses both elevated HSP90 transcript levels in D. antiqua pupae. Levels gradually increased with time in summer diapausing pupae whereas levels fluctuated in winter diapausing pupae. Cold- and heat-stressing summer- and winter-diapausing individuals further elevated HSP90 expression. mRNA levels gradually increased with time in summer diapausing pupae whereas levels decreased with time after an initial increase in winter diapausing pupae. HSP90 expression was also up-regulated following cold- and heat-stresses in non-diapausing pupae. Heat-stress gradually increased the mRNA level with time whereas cold-stress gradually decreased levels after an initial increase. These results suggest that the development and physiology of summer- and winter-diapauses, as monitored via variation in HSP90 transcript levels, can be substantial different.

Gastroinvasive Helicobacter Infection in an Ocelot (Leopardus pardalis)

Highly invasive Helicobacter-like organisms were found in a 19-year-old female ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) with multiple ulcers in the fundic region of the stomach. The bacteria, resembling Helicobacter heilmannii, were located largely within canaliculi or in the cytosol of parietal cells. Except in the ulcerative lesions, parietal cells were hyperplastic, while chief cells and neck mucous cells were reduced in number. The term "gastroinvasive Helicobacter-like organism" was applied. It seems probable that this organism differs from other Helicobacter organisms in pathogenicity, and possible that its behaviour in vitro would help it to evade antibacterial treatment.

Capsid protein genetic analysis and viral spread to the spinal cord in cats experimentally infected with feline calicivirus (FCV)

We investigated primitively the molecular basis of the neural spread of a feline calcivirus isolate (FCV-S) from the spinal cord of a cat that died after manifesting excitation. Experimental infections of cats with three clones from parent virus isolate FCV-S, isolated based on plaque size, were performed, and virus recovery from the spinal cord and the nucleotide and predicted amino acid sequences of the viral capsid protein region (ORF2) were compared. In the experimental infection with the one-time cloned virus (C1L1) isolated from a large plaque, the C1L1 was recovered from the spinal cord. In contrast, seven-times cloned C6L7 (from large plaque) and five-times cloned C5S2 (isolated from small plaque) were not recovered from the spinal cord. Genetic analysis of the capsid protein gene of the three viral clones revealed that four bases were different and two amino acids were different at positions 34 (Val in C6L7 and Ala in C1L1 and C5S2) and 46 (Leu in C6L7 and Pro in C1L1 and C5S2) between C6L7 (with large plaque) and C5S2 (with small plaque). The amino acid at position 434 of C1L1 was different from those of C6L7 and C5S2 (Gly in C1L1, D (Asp) in C6L7 and C5S2). From these results, the plaque size seemed not to be related to the spread of virus to the spinal cord. Clone C1L1, which spread to the spinal cord, had a difference of one amino acid from the other two clones, which may be related to the ability to spread to the spinal cord.

Expression of a candidate marker for progenitor cells, Musashi-1, in the proliferative regions of human antrum and its decreased expression in intestinal metaplasia

AIM

Reliable makers for progenitor cells in the human stomach have not been elucidated. The aim of the present study was to clarify whether Musashi-1 (Msi-1), which has recently been proposed as a stem cell marker in mouse intestine, serves as a marker for progenitor cells in human stomach.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Immunohistochemistry revealed that Msi-1+ cells were detected especially in the isthmus/neck region (the putative position of stem cells) of the adult antrum, but were limited to the basal regions of fetal pyloric glands during the early stages of development. These results suggest that Msi-1 expression occurs specifically in the stem cell-containing regions. Msi-1+ cells were intermingled with proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)+ cells in the isthmus/neck region of the adult antrum, but did not coexpress PCNA or Ki 67. Msi-1 expression overlapped partly with expression of MUC 5 AC and MUC 6, indicating that Msi-1+ cells retain some features of both foveolar and pyloric gland cell differentiation phenotypes. In contrast, Msi-1 expression in gastric glands showing intestinal metaplasia (IM) became weaker than that in the glands without IM.

CONCLUSION

The specific expression of Msi-1 within the proliferative regions suggests that Msi-1 is a marker of cells with progenitor characteristics before active proliferation in human antrum.

Expression of type V secretory phospholipase A in myocardial remodelling after infarction

AIMS

Secretory phospholipase A2 is associated with ischaemic injury in the human heart, but the distribution of type V secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2-V) remains unknown. The significance of sPLA2-V in myocardial infarction was investigated histopathologically.

METHODS

Sequential changes in the localization of sPLA2-V and its mRNA in myocardial tissues obtained from 30 autopsied hearts were examined by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization and compared with those of fibronectin, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin (IL)-1beta, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2).

RESULTS

No expression of sPLA2-V was observed in normal heart, but it was promptly expressed in wavy myofibres positive for fibronectin just after the onset of infarction. sPLA2-V was subsequently expressed in ischaemic cardiomyocytes around the lesion. The expression decreased at the granulation tissue and disappeared at the chronic stage with scar formation. The distribution of the signal for sPLA2-V mRNA paralleled that of the protein. Ischaemic myocytes around the lesion expressed VEGF, IL-1beta, TNF-alpha and COX-2 at all stages.

CONCLUSIONS

sPLA2-V production in myocardium is limited to the acute phase of infarction. sPLA2-V may play a dual role, acting both to remove degraded cell-membrane through cooperative activity with COX-2 in necrotic areas and to attack ischaemic myocytes around the lesion via degradation of membrane phospholipids.

Comparative study of two Japanese rhinoconjunctivitis quality-of-life questionnaires

CONCLUSION

Two questionnaires were used to assess quality of life (QOL) in allergic rhinitis: the Japanese translation of the Rhino-conjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQJ) and an original Japanese QOL questionnaire (JRQLQ). Either questionnaire may be used to assess QOL depending on differences in target domains.

OBJECTIVES

Although pollinosis is a common disease which has a major impact on patient QOL, no internationally standardized questionnaire has been available in Japan until now. The aim of this study was to compare two currently available QOL questionnaires for allergic rhinitis in Japan-the RQLQJ and JRQLQ-in terms of their appropriateness for clinical use and their psychometric properties.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A multicenter, inter-group, cross-sectional study was conducted in 187 adult symptomatic patients with Japanese cedar pollinosis in 2003. Patient scores on the two questionnaires were compared in terms of both overall and comparable domains. We also examined the acceptability, construct and reliability of both questionnaires.

RESULTS

The questionnaires were highly correlated in terms of both overall and comparable domain scores. In addition, both questionnaires had equal and satisfactory psychometric validity, demonstrating that they are both useful tools for assessing QOL in rhinitis. However, when compared with each other, the JRQLQ focuses mainly on activities of daily life and is simpler, while the RQLQJ focuses mainly on rhinitis-related health and is more responsive.