Expression of zebrafishROR alpha gene in cerebellar-like structures

Mouse genetic studies have identified several genes involved in cerebellar development. The mouse mutants staggerer and lurcher are functionally deficient for the retinoid-related orphan receptor alpha (ROR alpha) and glutamate receptor delta2 (Grid2) genes, respectively, and they show similar functional and developmental abnormalities in the cerebellum. Here, we report the cloning and expression pattern of zebrafish ROR alpha orthologues rora1 and rora2, and compare their expression pattern with that of grid2. Expression of rora1 and rora2 is initiated at late gastrula and pharyngula stages, respectively. Both rora1 and rora2 are spatially expressed in the retina and tectum. Expression of rora2 was further observed in the cerebellum, as reported for mammalian ROR alpha. In the adult brain, rora2 and grid2 are coexpressed in brain regions, designated as cerebellar-like structures. These observations suggest an evolutionarily conserved function of ROR alpha orthologues in the vertebrate brain.

Effect of the isoflavone genistein against galactose-induced cataracts in rats

Worldwide, ocular cataracts are a major cause of human blindness. A key goal of cataract-related research is to identify simple, cost-efficient but effective ways to prevent cataract formation or progression. Genistein is a naturally occurring dietary isoflavone with well-documented estrogenic, antioxidant, and protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor activity, which in turn modulates the activity of several enzymes involved in cell signaling and proliferation. Furthermore, many isoflavones have been shown to be potent inhibitors of aldose reductase, which is an important rate-limiting enzyme in the process of cataract induction in the metabolic disease galactosemia. In order to assess the potential for genistein to mitigate cataract formation, we have studied its effects in the animal model of dietary galactose-induced cataracts in adult male rats. Our experimental hypothesis was that dietary genistein would prevent or delay the progression of cataracts induced by high dietary intake of galactose. Our results show that the isoflavone genistein was not able to completely prevent galactose-induced cataract formation, but genistein did delay the progression of cataracts induced by dietary galactose. In addition, we found that dietary galactose decreased concentrations of serum somatostatin, while adding genistein decreased the serum glucose level but increased the serum testosterone level. As an initial inquiry into the mechanisms by which the partial protective effect of genistein could be mediated, we found that genistein increased the expression of connexin (Cx) 43 in the lens but did not affect the expression of soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) subunits. This finding suggests that the partial protective effect of genistein on cataract induction appears to be unrelated to sGC but may be mediated by enhanced expression of Cx43 and changed metabolic state.

Transcription factor Fli-1 expression by bone marrow cells in chronic myeloproliferative disorders is independent of an underlying JAK2 (V617F) mutation

OBJECTIVES

Friend leukemia integration-1 (Fli-1), a member of the Ets gene family of transcription factors, has been demonstrated to be a target of a leukaemia inducing virus in mice, and is known to be part of a fusion gene in Ewings' sarcoma in humans. Wild-type Fli-1 is involved in lineage commitment of megakaryocytes and myeloid progenitors through induction of Janus kinases (JAKs) following ligand binding to cytokine and growth factor receptors. Proliferation of atypical megakaryocytes is a predominant histopathological feature in Philadelphia chromosome negative chronic myeloproliferative disorders (Ph(-) CMPD) and a potential aberrant expression of Fli-1 has not been investigated so far.

METHODS

Fli-1 expression was investigated by real-time RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry in bone marrow cells derived from Ph(-) CMPD (n = 80) and non-neoplastic haematopoiesis (n = 21) following determination of the JAK2 status.

RESULTS

Fli-1 mRNA expression was significantly higher in Essential thrombocythaemia (ET) with JAK2 (V617F) compared with other Ph(-) CMPD and control (P < 0.001). By immunohistochemistry, Fli-1 protein could be detected in nuclei of atypical megakaryocytes in Ph(-) CMPD and, less accentuated, in non-neoplastic megakaryocytes. Fli-1 protein expression by myeloid progenitors was considerably heterogenous in Ph(-) CMPD independent of an underlying JAK2 (V617F) mutation and without notable differences to non-neoplastic haematopoiesis.

CONCLUSION

Fli-1 is rather constitutively expressed by bone marrow cells in Ph(-) CMPD independent of the underlying JAK2 status. The overall stronger labelling for Fli-1 in megakaryocytes in Ph(-) CMPD most likely reflects the degree of polyploidisation but aberrant activation of nuclear target genes can not be excluded.

The hypolipidemic agent guggulsterone regulates the expression of human bile salt export pump: dominance of transactivation over farsenoid X receptor-mediated antagonism

Conversion of cholesterol to bile acids in the liver is initiated by the rate-limiting enzyme cholesterol 7alpha-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) and excretion of bile acids from the liver is mediated by the bile salt export pump (BSEP). The expression of CYP7A1 and BSEP is coordinately regulated by a negative feedback and positive feed-forward mechanism, respectively, through bile acid-mediated activation of farsenoid X receptor (FXR). It is well established that hypolipidemic agent guggulsterone is an FXR antagonist and down-regulates FXR target genes. In this study, however, we have demonstrated that guggulsterone synergistically induced the expression of BSEP in cells treated with FXR agonist bile acids. A dissection study located in the BSEP promoter an activating protein (AP)-1 site supporting the action of guggulsterone. Deletion or mutation of the AP-1 element was diminished, whereas insertion of the AP-1 element into a heterologous promoter enhanced activation of the promoter by guggulsterone. Selective c-Jun N-terminal kinase and extracellular signal-regulated kinase inhibitors markedly decreased the transactivation, suggesting an involvement of AP-1 activation pathway in the up-regulation of BSEP by guggulsterone. Consistent with its FXR antagonism, guggulsterone antagonized bile acid-mediated transactivation of BSEP promoter when the AP-1 element was disrupted. In conclusion, guggulsterone regulates BSEP expression through composite mechanisms, and the transactivation through the AP-1 element is dominant over the FXR-mediated antagonism. The up-regulation of BSEP expression by guggulsterone without activating FXR pathway as an FXR agonist to suppress CYP7A1 expression represents a possible mechanism for guggulsterone-mediated hypolipidemic effect.

Evaluation of Human Liver Slices and Reporter Gene Assays as Systems for Predicting the Cytochrome P450 Induction Potential of Drugs in Vivo in Humans

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to investigate the feasibility of predicting human in vivo cytochrome P450 (CYP) induction properties of drugs using in vitro methods.

METHODS

The CYP induction potential of compounds was tested in human liver slices and in reporter gene assays for the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and the pregnane X receptor (PXR).

RESULTS

In human liver slices, CYP activities decreased dramatically over the experimental period, whereas mRNA levels could reliably be used to investigate CYP1A, 2C9, and 3A4 induction. However, the interindividual variations and demanding experimentation limit the use of liver slices in screening programs. Reporter gene assays are robust and reliable assays, amenable to high throughput screening. Several compounds activated AhR. The relevance of this activation, however, needs to be further investigated since there are no clear reports on drugs inducing CYP1A in vivo. The results from the PXR assay could be used to correctly classify compounds with known CYP3A induction properties when relating in vivo AUCtot to PXR EC50 values.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver slices are a valuable model to study the regulation of a larger number of enzymes by single compounds. The PXR reporter gene assay could be used as a reliable screening method to predict CYP3A induction in vivo.

The Farnesoid X Receptor Is Expressed in Breast Cancer and Regulates Apoptosis and Aromatase Expression

Bile acids are present at high concentrations in breast cysts and in the plasma of postmenopausal women with breast cancer. The farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily that regulates bile acid homeostasis. FXR was detected in normal and tumor breast tissue, with a high level of expression in ductal epithelial cells of normal breast and infiltrating ductal carcinoma cells. FXR was also present in the human breast carcinoma cells, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-468. Activation of FXR by high concentrations of ligands induced MCF-7 and MDA-MB-468 apoptosis. At lower concentrations that had no direct effect on viability, the FXR agonist GW4064 induced expression of mRNA for the FXR target genes, small heterodimer partner (SHP), intestinal bile acid binding protein, and multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP-2), and repressed the expression of the SHP target gene aromatase. In contrast to MRP-2, mRNA for the breast cancer target genes MDR-3, MRP-1, and solute carrier transporter 7A5 were decreased. Although multidrug resistance transporters were regulated and are known FXR target genes, GW4064 had no effect on the cell death induced by the anticancer drug paclitaxel. Our findings show for the first time that FXR is expressed in breast cancer tissue and has multiple properties that could be used for the treatment of breast cancer.

Expression of serpinb6 serpins in germ and somatic cells of mouse gonads

The serpin superfamily of serine protease inhibitors is implicated in the regulation of numerous physiological processes. In mice, Spi3/Serpinb6 has a broad tissue distribution. We have investigated the expression of Serpinb6 family members in embryonic and adult gonads. In male and female mice, Spi3/Serpinb6 and NK13/Serpinb6b were expressed in developing gonads and in both somatic and germ cells of adult gonads. By contrast, gonadal expression of Spi3C/Serpinb6c was sexually dimorphic and restricted to male germ cells and female somatic cells. These observations raise the question of the possible role(s) of the Serpinb6 family members in gonad development, gametogenesis, and/or fertilization.

Regulation and induction of CYP3A11, CYP3A13 and CYP3A25 in C57BL/6J mouse liver

This study reports that dexamethasone (DEX) significantly induces CYP3A11, CYP3A13 and CYP3A25 mRNA expression in male and female 4 days, 3 weeks and 18 weeks old C57BL/6J mice. Furthermore, CYP3A activity, as measured by erythromycin-N-demethylation, is also significantly increased. PXR, RXRalpha and CAR are known to be involved in the induction of CYP3As. Here we report nuclear receptors PXR and RXRalpha but not CAR demonstrate gender- and age-dependent expression. Also, treatment of C57BL/6J mice with DEX induces PXR but not RXRalpha or CAR. In summary, we demonstrate DEX is not only able to up-regulate CYP3A expression and activity, but also the nuclear receptor PXR through which it may exert this effect. Furthermore, the gender- and age-dependent pattern of basal PXR and RXRalpha expression is similar to the 3 CYP3As analysed.

Farnesoid X-activated receptor antagonists from a marine sponge Spongia sp

Three novel (1-3) and two known (4-5) scalarane sesterterpenes were isolated from a marine sponge of the genus Spongia. The isolated compounds showed potent inhibition of transactivation for the nuclear hormone receptor, FXR (farnesoid X-activated receptor), which is a promising drug target to treat hypercholesterolemia in humans.

Gene expression profile and overexpression of apoptosis-related genes (NGFI-B and Gadd 45 gamma) in early phase of Thy-1 nephritis model

Mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is a disease of high incidence in humans. Rat Thy-1 nephritis (Thy-1 N), namely, anti-thymocyte serum (ATS)-induced nephritis, is considered to be an animal model for studying MPGN. Although previous studies have demonstrated that glomerular mesangial cell (GMCs) injury might be a feature of Thy-1 N, the mechanism of the disease (i.e., GMC apoptosis) remains unclear. We have examined the pathologic changes of GMCs and the gene expression profile of renal tissues in Thy-1 N. The pathologic changes of Thy-1 N include three phages: GMC apoptosis (40 min), necrosis (2 h), and proliferation (5 days). Many TUNEL-positive cells are found 40 min after administration of ATS. Concomitantly, 341 genes are up-regulated, whereas 392 genes are down-regulated, as shown by microarrays analysis. The mRNA and protein of two of the up-regulated genes (nerve growth factor induced protein I-B, NGFI-B; growth arrest- and DNA-damage-inducible protein 45 gamma, Gadd 45 gamma) in the GMC apoptotic phase of Thy-1 N are markedly elevated, as observed by real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Our data indicate that pathologic changes of Thy-1 N are involved in the abnormal gene profile. The overexpression of the NGFI-B and Gadd 45 gamma genes may be associated with GMC apoptosis of Thy-1 N.

Regulation of cementoblast function by P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide via TLR2

Although cementoblasts express Toll-like receptors (TLR)-2 and -4, little is known regarding the possible participation of cementoblasts in the inflammatory response. We investigated the effects of Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide (LPS), tetra- and penta-acylated lipid A species (designated PgLPS(1435/1449) and PgLPS(1690), respectively), on gene expression of osteoclastogenesis-associated molecules in murine cementoblasts. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR analysis revealed that receptor activator of NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL), interleukin-6, Regulated on activation, normal T-cell expressed, and secreted (RANTES), macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 were rapidly and dramatically induced upon stimulation with PgLPS(1690), but only slightly induced with PgLPS(1435/1449). Osteoprotegerin, which was expressed constitutively, was not altered significantly. ELISA demonstrated synthesis of corresponding proteins. PgLPS(1690) significantly induced transcripts for NF-kappaB, and this activation was inhibited by pre-treatment with anti-TLR-2 but not with TLR-4 antibodies. These results suggest that cementoblasts participate in the recruitment of osteoclastic precursor cells by up-regulation of chemokines/cytokines.

RANKL increase in compressed periodontal ligament cells from root resorption

The ligand receptor activator of NFkappaB (RANKL) plays an important role in osteoclast formation. However, very little is known about the relationship between external apical root resorption during orthodontic treatment and RANKL. We hypothesized that compressive force is responsible for RANKL formation and up-regulation of osteoclastogenesis in periodontal ligament (PDL) cells from patients with severe orthodontically induced external apical root resorption. RANKL and osteoprotegerin (OPG) production, TRAP-positive cells, and resorptive pits were determined. The increase of RANKL and the decrease of OPG were greater in the severe root resorption group than in the non-resorption group. The numbers of TRAP-positive cells and resorptive pits were also increased in the severe root resorption group than in the non-resorption group. These results support the hypothesis that the compressed PDL cells obtained from tissues with severe external apical root resorption may produce a large amount of RANKL and up-regulate osteoclastogenesis.

Lipopolysaccharide from Prevotella nigrescens stimulates osteoclastogenesis in cocultures of bone marrow mononuclear cells and primary osteoblasts

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Lipopolysaccharide is thought to be a major virulence factor of pathogens associated with periodontal diseases and is believed to stimulate bone resorption in vivo. Although Prevotella nigrescens has been implicated in periodontitis, its role in osteoclastogenesis has not been reported. In this study, we investigated the effects of lipopolysaccharide from P. nigrescens on the formation of osteoclasts and the production of cytokines related to osteoclast differentiation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Mouse bone marrow mononuclear cells were cultured in the presence of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaB ligand (RANKL), with or without lipopolysaccharide. Bone marrow mononuclear cells were also cocultured with calvarial osteoblastic cells in the presence or absence of lipopolysaccharide. Osteoclast formation was determined by tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase cytochemistry. The production of osteoprotegerin (OPG), M-CSF, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

P. nigrescens lipopolysaccharide inhibited osteoclast differentiation from bone marrow mononuclear cells cultured in the presence of M-CSF and RANKL. However, in the coculture system, P. nigrescens lipopolysaccharide stimulated osteoclastogenesis. Notably, P. nigrescens lipopolysaccharide decreased OPG production but increased TGF-beta secretion. In addition, treatment with P. nigrescens lipopolysaccharide increased PGE2 production during the late stage of the culture period. There was no difference in M-CSF and TNF-alpha production.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate that P. nigrescens lipopolysaccharide stimulates osteoclastogenesis in the coculture system by decreasing the production of OPG and increasing the production of TGF-beta and PGE2. Through the mechanisms involving these factors, P. nigrescens lipopolysaccharide may cause alveolar bone resorption in periodontal diseases.

Prevention of the ischemia-induced decrease in mitochondrial Tom20 content by ischemic preconditioning

Preserved mitochondrial function (respiration, calcium handling) and integrity (cytochrome c release) is central for cell survival following ischemia/reperfusion. Mitochondrial function also requires import of proteins from the cytosol via the translocase of the outer and inner membrane (TOM and TIM complexes). Since mitochondrial function following ischemia/reperfusion is better preserved by ischemic preconditioning (IP), we now investigated whether expression of parts of the import machinery is affected by ischemia/reperfusion without or with IP in vivo. We analyzed the mitochondrial content of the presequence receptor Tom20, the pore forming unit Tom40 and Tim23. Goettinger minipigs were subjected to 90 min of low-flow ischemia without or with preconditioning by 10 min ischemia and 15 min reperfusion. Mitochondria were isolated from the ischemic or preconditioned anterior wall of the left ventricle and from the control posterior wall. Infarct size was significantly reduced by IP (20.1 +/- 1.6% of area at risk (non-preconditioned) vs. 6.5 +/- 2.5% of area at risk (IP)). Using Western blot analysis, the ratio of Tom20 (normalized to Ponceau S) between mitochondria isolated from the anterior ischemic and posterior control wall was reduced (0.72 +/- 0.11, a.u., n = 8), whereas the mitochondrial Tom20 content was preserved by IP (1.17 +/- 0.16 a.u., n = 7, P < 0.05). The mitochondrial Tom40, Tim23 and adenine nucleotide transporter (ANT) contents were not significantly different between non-preconditioned and preconditioned myocardium. The preservation of the mitochondrial Tom20 protein level may contribute to the improved mitochondrial function after IP.

Fli-1 expression in mycosis fungoides

BACKGROUND

The Fli-1 transcription factor functions in cellular proliferation and tumorigenesis. Its role in various neoplasms and its presence in lymphocytes suggest a link between Fli-1 dysregulation and the pathogenesis of mycosis fungoides (MF). In this study, we further elucidate this possible link.

METHODS

Sections from archived specimens were stained using a polyclonal antibody against Fli-1. The percentage of nuclei showing Fli-1 expression was recorded. These were compared with reactive dermatoses.

RESULTS

All of the tumor stage lesions showed high levels of nuclear Fli-1 expression. Of plaque stage lesions, six of 12 (50%) showed the same intensity, while the remaining six of 12 varied significantly in their Fli-1 expression. The few patch stage lesions also showed varied expression.

CONCLUSION

This study shows diffuse nuclear expression of Fli-1 in all tumor stage MF, whereas expression of this transcription factor varied widely in the early, epidermotropic stages. Although the numbers are too small to draw statistical significance, this study demonstrates an association between increased expression of Fli-1 and progression to tumor stage MF that merits further investigation. Additionally, the mixed expression of Fli-1 in the epidermotropic stages suggests that the role of Fli-1 in MF is related to neoplasia and not epidermotropism.

Intraarticular corticosteroids decrease synovial RANKL expression in inflammatory arthritis

OBJECTIVE

Intraarticular corticosteroids are frequently used as successful adjuvant therapy for inflammatory arthritides, but little is known about their effects on molecules that regulate bone biology. We undertook this study to investigate the effect of intraarticular corticosteroids on the synovial expression of RANKL and osteoprotegerin (OPG).

METHODS

We evaluated RANKL, OPG, and surface marker expression by immunohistochemical methods in synovial knee biopsy samples obtained from 13 patients with inflammatory arthritis before and 2 weeks following intraarticular injection of triamcinolone hexacetonide. We further investigated the effect of dexamethasone (DEX) on RANKL expression by lymphocytes from rheumatoid arthritis synovial fluids (RA SF), using flow cytometric analysis. Finally, we evaluated the in vitro effect of DEX on RANKL and OPG expression in osteoblast-like cells, by Western blotting.

RESULTS

Intraarticular corticosteroids induced a decrease in the number of synovial T cells without influencing the number of macrophages, evaluated as both CD68+ and CD163+ cells. This change was paralleled by a decrease of synovial RANKL expression with a concomitant reduction of the RANKL:OPG ratio. DEX down-regulated RANKL expression on lymphocytes derived from RA SF. Moreover, in vitro pretreatment of osteoblast-like cells with tumor necrosis factor favored an antiresorptive effect of DEX treatment through a similar down-regulation of RANKL expression.

CONCLUSION

The decrease in inflammation attributed to intraarticular corticosteroids is accompanied by down-modulation of bone destruction markers. These findings offer a rationale for the beneficial effect of corticosteroids on joint erosion in arthritis.

[Effects of kangfengshi granules on expressions of osteoprotegerin, RANKL and M-CSF in bone tissues of rats with collagen-induced arthritis]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effects of Kangfengshi Granules (KFSG) on expressions of the mRNAs of osteoprotegerin (OPG), receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL) and macrophage colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) in bone tissues of rats with collagen-induced arthritis.

METHODS

Forty SD rats were randomly divided into four groups: normal control group, untreated group, cyclosporine A (CsA)-treated group and KFSG-treated group. Except the rats in the normal control group, all the other rats received subcutaneous injection of collagen II to establish collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) models. Then the rats in each group were fed normal saline or corresponding drugs for four weeks. Total RNA was extracted from carpal and digital bones. The expressions of OPG, RANKL and M-CSF mRNAs were examined by real-time PCR.

RESULTS

The total incidence of arthritis induced by collagen II in the rats was approximately 90%. The expression levels of RANKL and M-CSF mRNAs and the RANKL mRNA/OPG mRNA ratio in the untreated group, KFSG-treated group and CsA-treated group were all significantly higher than those in the normal control group, while the expression levels of OPG mRNA in those three groups were significantly lower than that in the normal control group. The expression level of OPG mRNA in the KFSG-treated group was obviously higher while the expression level of M-CSF mRNA and the RANKL mRNA/OPG mRNA ratio in the same group were both lower as compared with those in the untreated group.

CONCLUSION

The molecular mechanism of effects of KFSG on bone erosion and destruction induced by rheumatoid arthritis is closely correlated with up-regulating the expression of OPG mRNA, down-regulating the expression of M-CSF mRNA and RANKL mRNA/OPG mRNA ratio.

Resveratrol regulates the expression of LXR-alpha in human macrophages

The naturally occurring polyphenol resveratrol has been associated with the beneficial effects of red wine consumption on cardiovascular disease and shown to inhibit atherosclerosis in animal models. To determine if resveratrol affects the expression of genes that control lipid homeostasis in human macrophages, we measured expression changes in the LXR-alpha pathway, crucial to cholesterol efflux, and in genes that mediate lipoprotein uptake. Resveratrol treatment of THP-1 macrophages induced LXR-alpha at mRNA and protein levels. Increased recruitment of RNA polymerase II to the LXR-alpha promoter suggested that up-regulation was at least partly mediated by transcriptional mechanisms. Resveratrol also induced LXR-alpha in human monocyte-derived macrophages together with elevated ABCA1 and ABCG1 mRNA levels. Moreover, resveratrol repressed the expression of the lipid uptake genes LPL and SR-AII. The ability of resveratrol to modulate expression of the genes involved in lipid uptake and efflux suggests that polyphenols can potentially limit cholesterol accumulation in human macrophages.

Antitumor and antimetastatic activities of docetaxel are enhanced by genistein through regulation of osteoprotegerin/receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB (RANK)/RANK ligand/MMP-9 signaling in prostate cancer

Bone metastasis is very common in advanced prostate cancer. Docetaxel has been shown to improve survival in patients with metastatic prostate cancer. However, treatment with docetaxel is associated with a certain degree of toxicity. Genistein, derived from soybeans, has been found to inhibit cancer cell growth without toxicity. We have recently reported that genistein could potentiate the antitumor activity of chemotherapeutic agents both in vitro and in vivo. However, the molecular mechanism of this novel effect of genistein has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we found that genistein significantly potentiated the antitumor, anti-invasive, and antimetastatic activities of docetaxel both in culture and in severe combined immunodeficient (SCID)-human model of experimental prostate cancer bone metastasis. We further conducted microarray analysis, real-time reverse transcription-PCR, Western blot analysis, small interfering RNA and cDNA transfection, matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity assay, and invasion assay. We found that the expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG) was induced by genistein and inhibited by docetaxel, whereas genistein significantly down-regulated the expression and secretion of receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB (RANK) ligand (RANKL) and inhibited osteoclast formation. Moreover, genistein down-regulated the expression and activity of MMP-9, which was induced by docetaxel treatment, and inhibited invasion of PC-3 cells. These results suggest that the observed potentiation of antitumor activity of docetaxel by genistein in the SCID-human model of experimental bone metastasis could be mediated by regulation of OPG/RANK/RANKL/MMP-9 signaling, resulting in the inhibition of osteoclastic bone resorption and prostate cancer bone metastasis. From these results, we conclude that genistein could be a promising nontoxic agent to improve the treatment outcome of metastatic prostate cancer with docetaxel.

Expression of RANKL and OPG in Middle Ear Cholesteatoma Tissue

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to investigate how the expression of the RANK-RANKL-OPG system mediates the formation and differentiation of osteoclasts and causes bone resorption in cholesteatoma.

METHODS

An immunohistochemical analysis was carried out in 22 cholesteatoma tissues obtained during middle ear surgery and 15 normal postauricular skin tissues to examine the expression of RANKL and OPG.

RESULTS

All 22 cases of cholesteatoma and the 15 cases of normal postauricular skin expressed RANKL and OPG. The count and rate of RANKL-positive cells in cholesteatoma was significantly higher than in normal postauricular skin. The count and rate of OPG-positive cells in normal postauricular skin was significantly higher than in cholesteatoma. The ratio of the positive expression rates of RANKL and OPG in cholesteatoma was statistically higher than in normal postauricular skin.

CONCLUSIONS

We provide evidence suggesting that RANKL, which activates osteoclasts, plays a significant role in the mechanism of bone destruction in cholesteatoma, and that the ratio of RANKL to OPG may be a reliable indicator of bone destruction in cholesteatoma.

Up-regulation of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor type 1 is responsible for a decreased endoplasmic-reticulum Ca2+ content in presenilin double knock-out cells

Presenilins (PS) are proteins involved in the pathogenesis of autosomal-dominant familial cases of Alzheimer's disease. Mutations in PS are known to induce specific alterations in cellular Ca2+ signaling which might be involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) deficient in PS1 and PS2 (PS DKO) as well as the latter rescued with PS1 (Rescue), were used to investigate the underlying mechanism of these alterations in Ca2+ signaling. PS DKO cells were characterized by a decrease in the [Ca2+]ER as measured by ER-targeted aequorin luminescence and an increased level of type 1 inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (IP3R1). The lower [Ca2+]ER was associated with an increase in a Ca2+ leak from the ER. The increased IP3R1 expression and the concomitant changes in ER Ca2+ handling were reversed in the Rescue cells. Moreover using RNA-interference mediated reduction of IP3R1 we could demonstrate that the up-regulation of this isoform was responsible for the increased Ca2+ leak and the lowered [Ca2+]ER PS DKO cells. Finally, we show that the decreased [Ca2+]ER in PS DKO cells was protective against apoptosis.

Novel role for the orphan nuclear receptor Dax1 in embryogenesis, different from steroidogenesis

Cytomegalic adrenal hypoplasia congenita (AHC) is an X-linked disease caused by mutations in DAX1-encoding gene NR0B1, previously thought to function primarily in steroidogenesis. We sought to determine the expression pattern for Dax1 along with known network partners in early embryogenesis and to determine a steroidogenic capacity for the embryo prior to the establishment of the urogenital ridge at embryonic day 9 (E9). Here, we report that murine Dax1 is a unique marker in early embryonic development, distinguishing the extraembryonic (proximal) endoderm from the remainder of the developing embryo. We showed that Wilms tumor 1, steroidogenic factor 1, and estrogen receptor beta were expressed throughout the embryo, but the progesterone, estrogen alpha and androgen receptors, cytochrome P450 (Cyp11a1) and Nur77 were not observed in any of the embryonic layers. Lack of Cyp11A1 expression at this stage confirmed an absence of inherent steroidogenic capacity for the early embryo. The role of Nr0b1 in embryonic stem (ES) cells was investigated using siRNA knockdown, resulting in differentiation toward endoderm-like fate. Nr0b1 conditional knockout in ES cells led to differentiation, confirming our knockdown results. Our investigations suggest that Nr0b1 functions in a novel role in the maintenance of a relatively undifferentiated state. Our results further suggest that the failure of conventional murine Nr0b1 knockout attempts may be due to disregulated differentiation.

Osteoprotegerin and Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor-Kappa B Ligand Modulation by Enamel Matrix Derivative in Human Alveolar Osteoblasts

BACKGROUND

Bone regeneration techniques increasingly rely on the use of exogenous molecules able to enhance tissue formation in pathologic and traumatic defects. An enamel matrix derivative (EMD) has been largely used to promote tooth ligament regeneration within periodontal pockets. Recent evidence suggests that EMD may contribute to inducing osteoblast growth and differentiation. We investigated the effects of EMD on growth and osteogenic marker modulation in human mandibular osteoblasts.

METHODS

We focused our attention on cell growth by 3-(4,5-dimethyl[thiazol-2-yl]-3,5-diphery)tetradium bromide (MTT) assay, cell differentiation, mineralized nodule formation, and, in particular, the expression of receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappa B ligand (RANKL), the main osteoclast differentiation factor, and its decoy receptor, osteoprotegerin (OPG), by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Cell growth was significantly increased by EMD. Similarly, a significantly higher quantity of OPG and a lower amount of RANKL were detectable in groups treated with 50 and 100 microg/ml at weeks 1, 2, and 3, and alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin production were enhanced in cultures treated with 50 and 100 microg/ml at weeks 2 and 3. Mineralized nodules appeared bigger and more numerous in cultures treated with 50 and 100 microg/ml EMD.

CONCLUSIONS

EMD was able to enhance osteoblast cell growth and the expression of markers of osteoblastic phenotype and differentiation. EMD also seemed able to create a favorable osteogenic microenvironment by reducing RANKL release and enhancing osteoblastic OPG production.

Bone stromal cells in pagetic bone and Paget's sarcoma express RANKL and support human osteoclast formation

Paget's disease is a focal disorder of bone remodelling, in which there is an increase in osteoclast formation. A rare complication of Paget's disease is the development of a sarcoma, most commonly an osteosarcoma. Osteoclast formation occurs in the presence of macrophage-colony stimulating factor and receptor activator for nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL), and it has been shown that bone stromal cells in Paget's disease can influence osteoclast formation by modulating the expression of RANKL and its decoy receptor, osteoprotegerin (OPG). In this study we show that pagetic bone stromal cells express RANKL and that these cells promote osteoclast formation by a RANKL-dependent mechanism. Osteoclast formation in co-cultures of monocytes and either pagetic bone stromal cells or Paget's sarcoma stromal cells was not only induced by a contact-dependent mechanism but also occurred via the release of a soluble factor. In contrast to bone stromal cells isolated from normal controls, stromal cells isolated from morphologically normal bone in one patient with Paget's disease also stimulated osteoclast formation in this way; this osteoclastogenesis was inhibited by OPG. Our results indicate that Paget's bone stromal cells support osteoclast formation by a RANKL-dependent process which involves not only cell-cell contact but also secretion of soluble RANKL.

Cyclical tensile force on periodontal ligament cells inhibits osteoclastogenesis through OPG induction

The periodontal ligament (PDL) maintains homeostasis of periodontal tissue under mechanical tensile-loading caused by mastication. Occlusal load inhibits atrophic alveolar bone resorption. Previously, we discovered that continuous compressive force on PDL cells induced osteoclastogenesis-supporting activity, with up-regulation of RANKL. We hypothesized that, unlike compression, cyclical tensile force up-regulates OPG expression in PDL cells via TGF-beta up-regulation, and does not induce osteoclastogenesis-supporting activity. PDL cells were mechanically stimulated by cyclical tensile force in vitro. The conditioned media of PDL cells that had been subjected to cyclical tensile force inhibited osteoclastogenesis. Cyclical tensile force up-regulated not only RANKL mRNA expression, but also OPG mRNA expression in PDL cells. Tensile force up-regulated TGF-beta expression in PDL cells as well. Administration of neutralizing antibodies to TGF-beta inhibited OPG up-regulation under cyclical tensile-force stimulation in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the osteoclastogenesis-inhibitory effect of the conditioned media of PDL cells under cyclical tensile force was partially rescued by the administration of TGF-beta neutralizing antibodies. In conclusion, tensile force inhibited the osteoclastogenesis-supporting activity of PDL cells by inducing the up-regulation of OPG via TGF-beta stimulation.