[Study on combined clinical manifestation and myocardial perfusion imaging with 99mTc-MIBI SPECT for diagnosing myocarditis]

In 568 cases suffering from upper-respiratory tract infection with sore throat and more than one of following clinical manifestations: arrhythmia, heart failure and chest pain or oppressive sensation over the chest(Group A), and another 108 cases without above clinical manifestations(Group B), myocardial perfusion imaging with 99mTc-MIBI SPECT was studied. The results revealed that the imaging in 404 cases (71.12%) of Group A supported diagnosis of myocarditis, but only 6 cases(5.56%) did so in Group B. Because of lacking the clinical manifestations of myocarditis but positive finding of CVB-IgM antibody was detected in their sera, we considered that the positive SPECT imaging in these six cases of Group B belonged to myocardial reaction due to virus infection. It was possible that some of them were suffering from subclinical type of myocarditis.

[An investigation of bacterial epidemiology and an analysis of bacterial resistance to antibiotics in a burn unit from 1993 to 1999]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the bacterial epidemiology in our department in recent years, so as to provide assistance to the clinical management of burn patients.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was carried out with 345 bacterial cultures from burn wound and drug-sensitivity results in 784 burn patients during 1993 to 1999 in our department.

RESULTS

(1) Among all the bacteria, gram negative (G(-)) bacilli accounted for 56.8%, while gram positive (G(+)) cocci and fungi in 3.8%. (2) Among all the G(+) cocci, 65.4% were Staphylococcus aureus, in which MRSA was identified in 53.9% during 1993 - 1999 and in 64.3% during 1998 - 1999. Pseudomonus aeruginosa accounted for 37.2% of all G(-) bacilli. (3) The 3rd generation of cephalosporins shew excellent anti-bacterial capabilities, but the bacterial resistance to them increased significantly. (4) MRSA was very sensitive to both vancomycin and norvancomycin with no report of antibiotic resistance to them.

CONCLUSION

G(-) bacilli were still predominant bacteria in our burn department when compared to G(+) cocci. The 3rd generation cephalosporins are the routine antibiotics for the present. But resistant bacteria are on the increase. There are also more and more MRSAs isolated from burn wounds. For this, vancomycin and norvancomycin should be preferably used.

Rotating Gamma System radiosurgery for cerebral arteriovenous malformations

One hundred and thirty-two patients with cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) were treated using the Rotating Gamma System, a new radiosurgical system between November 1996 and May 2000. The average size of the AVMs was 23 mm in diameter (range 6 to 69 mm). The mean dose delivered to the AVM margin was 19.2 Gy (range 13 to 25 Gy), and that delivered to the center of the AVMs was 37.6 Gy (range 32.5 to 50 Gy). One hundred and six patients were followed up for an average of 18.4 months (range 5 to 44 months). Five patients (4.7%) experienced rebleeding which took place between 5 and 13 months after treatment, but none of them died from hemorrhage. No bleeding took place after complete angiographic obliteration. Neuroimaging studies showed radiation-induced edema in 19 (22%) of the 87 patients, none of whom had severe permanent neurological deficits. Of the 68 patients followed up for more than one year, 57 underwent angiography at 1 year after treatment. The complete obliteration was demonstrated in 24 patients (42%) at 1 year. Of the 27 patients followed for more than 2 years, 23 patients underwent angiography 2 years after treatment, and complete obliteration was demonstrated in 18 patients (78%). These results are comparable to the results of treatment with other radiosurgical systems.

Sublethal cerebral ischemia inhibits caspase-3 activation induced by subsequent prolonged ischemia in the C57Black/Crj6 strain mouse

Caspase-3 activation has been implicated in ischemic neuronal death. In the present study, we examined if cerebral ischemic tolerance induced by sublethal ischemia is associated with an attenuation of caspase-3 activation in a mouse forebrain ischemia model. Forebrain ischemia in C57Black/Crj6 strain mice was induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) for 18 min. Two episodes of 6-min ischemia were carried out as preconditioning 48 and 72 h before the 18-min BCCAO. Caspase-3-like activity was determined by fluorescently monitoring the release of amino-4-methylcoumarin from N-acetyl-Asp-Glu-Val-Asp-7-amino-4-methylcoumarin in the striatal protein extracts at 4, 24, and 72 h after reperfusion. The results showed that the ischemic preconditioning significantly attenuated caspase-3 activation at 4, 24, and 72 h after reperfusion, and reduced neuronal loss caused by the 18-min ischemia as examined on the 7th day after reperfusion. The present results suggest that the neuroprotection achieved by ischemic preconditioning is related to an attenuation of caspase-3 activation.

[Changes of NK cell's activity and T lymphocyte subpopulation in peripheral blood of patients with laryngocarcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

By detecting the changes of NK cell's activity and T lymphocyte subpopulation in the peripheral blood of the patients with laryngocarcinoma, the immune function level of the patients could be judged and the prognosis of the patients could be predicted.

METHOD

The NK cell's activity in 47 patients with laryngocarcinoma was tested, and T lymphocyte subpopulation in 35 patients were detected with flow cytometer, and compared with the normal control group of 45 volunteers and the group of 15 patients with polyp of vocal cord.

RESULT

The NK cell's activity in the patients with laryngocarcinoma was lower than both of the normal control group and the polyp of vocal cord patients group, and the more severe was the degree of disease, the lower of the NK cell's activity was. The NK cell's activity in the pharyngocacinoma patients group in the 3-6 days after operation was lower than that in preoperation significantly; in the same time when the NK cell's activity was droping, CD3 and the ratio of CD4/CD8 became lower.

CONCLUSION

By detecting the changes of both NK cell's activity and the T lymphocyte subpopulation in patients with laryngocarcinoma, the immune function level of the patients can be judged objectively, which is of the important clinic significance.

A new vascularized adrenal transplantation model in the rat

A new microsurgical model of adrenal transplantation in the rat is described. An adrenal graft with its vascular supply, adrenal artery and vein, and the attachment of a segment of aorta and inferior vena cava (IVC) was transplanted to a recipient rat with end-to-side anastomoses between the donor IVC segment and the recipient IVC and between the donor aortic segment and the recipient aorta using 10-0 nylon sutures. Using this model, different groups of recipient rats received iso- or allograft with or without immunosuppressive treatment were tested. This model provides a reliable and useful tool for research on endocrinology.

Ultrasound-induced physiological effects and secondary metabolite (saponin) production in Panax ginseng cell cultures

This work was aimed at the effects of ultrasound (US) on the growth and secondary metabolite biosynthesis of cultured plant cells. Suspension cultures of Panax ginseng cells were exposed to US at power density below 82 mW/cm3 for short periods of time (1-4 min) in a US bath (38.5-kHz fixed frequency and 810 W maximum peak power). Under most exposure conditions, US stimulated the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, the ginsenoside saponins of ginseng cells, increasing the total saponin content of the cell by up to 75%. The growth and viability of ginseng cells were usually depressed immediately after the exposure to US, but recovered gradually to levels similar to those of a normal culture in a few days, with virtually no net loss of biomass yield at the end of the culture period. At some lower US doses, sonicated cultures could even reach slightly higher biomass yields than that of normal cultures. The effects of US on cell growth and secondary metabolite yield showed a significant correlation with the total US energy emitted (i.e., the product of US power and exposure time). Mechanical stress and microstreaming induced by acoustic cavitation were considered as the most possible causes of the various physiological effects of US on ginseng cells. In particular, the stimulation of secondary metabolite production by US may be a result of US-induced plant cell defense response.

A proteasome inhibitor effectively prevents mouse heart allograft rejection

BACKGROUND

We have previously demonstrated in vitro that proteasome inhibitors could suppress proliferation and induce apoptosis of activated T cells. This finding suggests that such inhibitors could be used as a novel category of immunosuppressants in blocking allograft rejection.

METHODS

The proteasome inhibitor dipeptide boronic acid (DPBA) was tested in vitro for its inhibitory effect on mouse T-cell proliferation and lymphokine secretion. DPBA was also used in vivo to treat mouse heterotopic heart allograft rejection. Possible side effects of this compound were examined according to blood chemistry of mice treated with DPBA.

RESULTS

DPBA suppressed the T-cell proliferation and potently inhibited interleukin (IL)-2, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, and IFN-gamma produced by anti-CD3-activated T cells. Given i.p. starting 1 day after transplantation at 0.66 mg/kg per day for 16 days, or at 1 mg/kg per day for 4 days followed by 0.5 mg/kg per day for 12 days, DPBA could prolong heart allograft survival to 35.5 days (mean survival time, MST) and to 36.2 days, respectively. The control group had MST of 7.3 days. When administrated 72 hr post operation at 1 mg/kg per day for 4 days, DPBA could prolong the graft survival to 19.8 days. During the course of these effective dosages, DPBA had no apparent toxicity in the liver, kidney, pancreas, or heart, according to analysis of blood chemistry.

CONCLUSIONS

The proteasome inhibitor could repress allograft rejection in mice without apparent side-effects at the effective dosages. This finding has opened a new dimension in development of novel immunosuppressants for organ transplantation.

Modulation of T-cell responses to alloantigens by TR6/DcR3

TR6 (DcR3) is a new member of the TNF receptor (TNFR) family that lacks a transmembrane domain in its sequence, indicating that it is a secreted molecule. TR6 can bind to FasL and prevent FasL-induced apoptosis; it can also associate with LIGHT, another TNF family member. The role of TR6 in immune responses was investigated in this study. According to flow cytometry, recombinant human TR6-Fc binds to human LIGHT expressed on 293 cells or on activated human T cells and competes with the LIGHT receptor TR2 for the binding to LIGHT on these cells. Human TR6 could cross-react with mouse LIGHT in immunoprecipitation. TR6-Fc also downregulates cytotoxic T lymphocyte activity in vitro and graft-versus-host responses in mice. Moreover, TR6-Fc modulates lymphokine production by alloantigen-stimulated mouse T cells. TR6-Fc ameliorated rejection response to mouse heart allograft. These results indicate that TR6 can dampen T-cell responses to alloantigens. Such regulatory effects of TR6 probably occur via interference with interaction between pairs of related TNF and TNFR family members, LIGHT/TR2 being one of the possible candidate pairs.

Analysis of the cat eye syndrome critical region in humans and the region of conserved synteny in mice: a search for candidate genes at or near the human chromosome 22 pericentromere

We have sequenced a 1.1-Mb region of human chromosome 22q containing the dosage-sensitive gene(s) responsible for cat eye syndrome (CES) as well as the 450-kb homologous region on mouse chromosome 6. Fourteen putative genes were identified within or adjacent to the human CES critical region (CESCR), including three known genes (IL-17R, ATP6E, and BID) and nine novel genes, based on EST identity. Two putative genes (CECR3 and CECR9) were identified, in the absence of EST hits, by comparing segments of human and mouse genomic sequence around two solitary amplified exons, thus showing the utility of comparative genomic sequence analysis in identifying transcripts. Of the 14 genes, 10 were confirmed to be present in the mouse genomic sequence in the same order and orientation as in human. Absent from the mouse region of conserved synteny are CECR1, a promising CES candidate gene from the center of the contig, neighboring CECR4, and CECR7 and CECR8, which are located in the gene-poor proximal 400 kb of the contig. This latter proximal region, located approximately 1 Mb from the centromere, shows abundant duplicated gene fragments typical of pericentromeric DNA. The margin of this region also delineates the boundary of conserved synteny between the CESCR and mouse chromosome 6. Because the proximal CESCR appears abundant in duplicated segments and, therefore, is likely to be gene poor, we consider the putative genes identified in the distal CESCR to represent the majority of candidate genes for involvement in CES.

A forebrain ischemic preconditioning model established in C57Black/Crj6 mice

Although many kinds of rat and gerbil cerebral ischemic preconditioning models are available, only a focal ischemic preconditioning model in mice has been reported. As most genetic alterations have been performed in mice, it is urgent to develop mouse ischemic preconditioning models for investigating the molecular mechanisms of ischemic preconditioning in transgenic mice. In the present study, we developed a forebrain ischemic preconditioning model in C57Black/Crj6 (C57BL/6) mice. Forebrain ischemia was induced in C57BL/6 mice (8-10 weeks old) by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) for 18 min. The conditioning ischemic insult lasting for 6 min was carried out 48 h before the 18-min BCCAO. On the seventh day after BCCAO, neuronal damage was visualized by microtubule-associated protein-2 immunohistochemistry and quantified by cresyl violet staining. Terminal deoxytransferase-mediated dUTP-nick end labeling (TUNEL) was performed 72 h after reperfusion to detect DNA fragmentation. Ischemia for 18 min resulted in injury to the striatum, cortex and hippocampus. In comparison to the hippocampus, striatal neuronal injury was more severe and reproducible. Although the conditioning ischemia itself caused neither noticeable striatal neuronal damage nor DNA fragmentation, it significantly reduced striatal neuronal damage and DNA fragmentation caused by the subsequent 18-min ischemia. These results indicate that striatal neuronal injury after transient BCCAO can be strongly reduced by a sublethal ischemic episode in C57BL/6 mice. As many kinds of gene-altered C57BL/6 mice are available, this preconditioning model may be useful for investigating the molecular mechanisms of ischemic preconditioning in transgenic mice.

Both caspase-dependent and caspase-independent pathways may be involved in hippocampal CA1 neuronal death because of loss of cytochrome c From mitochondria in a rat forebrain ischemia model

In a rat forebrain ischemia model, the authors examined whether loss of cytochrome c from mitochondria correlates with ischemic hippocampal CA1 neuronal death and how cytochrome c release may shape neuronal death. Forebrain ischemia was induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion with simultaneous hypotension for 10 minutes. After reperfusion, an early rapid depletion of mitochondrial cytochrome c and a late phase of diffuse redistribution of cytochrome c occurred in the hippocampal CA1 region, but not in the dentate gyrus and CA3 regions. Intracerebroventricular administration of Z-DEVD-FMK, a relatively selective caspase-3 inhibitor, provided limited but significant protection against ischemic neuronal damage on day 7 after reperfusion. Treatment with 3 minutes of ischemia (ischemic preconditioning) 48 hours before the 10-minute ischemia attenuated both the early and late phases of cytochrome c redistribution. In another subset of animals treated with cycloheximide, a general protein synthesis inhibitor, the late phase of cytochrome c redistribution was inhibited, whereas most hippocampal CA1 neurons never regained mitochondrial cytochrome c. Examination of neuronal survival revealed that ischemic preconditioning prevents, whereas cycloheximide only delays, ischemic hippocampal CA1 neuronal death. DNA fragmentation detected by terminal deoxytransferase-mediated dUTP-nick end labeling (TUNEL) in situ was largely attenuated by ischemic preconditioning and moderately reduced by cycloheximide. These results indicate that the loss of cytochrome c from mitochondria correlates with hippocampal CA1 neuronal death after transient cerebral ischemia in relation to both caspase-dependent and -independent pathways. The amount of mitochondrial cytochrome c regained may determine whether ischemic hippocampal CA1 neurons survive or succumb to late-phase death.

Intravenous anesthetics differentially reduce neurotransmission damage caused by oxygen-glucose deprivation in rat hippocampal slices in correlation with N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor inhibition

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relation between the effect of intravenous anesthetics on ischemic neurotransmission damage and their actions on N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptors in an in vitro cerebral ischemic model.

DESIGN

Prospective, randomized study in freshly prepared rat hippocampal slices.

SETTING

University research laboratory.

SUBJECTS

Hippocampal slices were prepared from male Wistar rats (4-5 wks old).

INTERVENTIONS AND MEASUREMENTS

In vitro ischemia was induced by exposing slices to glucose-free Krebs solution gassed with 95% N2 /5% CO2 at 37.1-37.3 degrees C. Ischemic neurotransmission damage was indicated by the amplitudes of population spikes (PS) recorded from the CA1 pyramidal layer after stimulation of the Schaffer collaterals. The effect of anesthetics on NMDA receptors was determined by measuring the NMDA-mediated changes in intracellular calcium in the CA1 pyramidal layer with a calcium indicator, fura-2.

RESULTS

Following 4, 6, and 7.5 mins ischemia in vitro, the recoveries of PS (% control) were 100%, 17.5 +/- 21.8%, and 5.4 +/- 2.1%, respectively. 3-(R)-(2-carboxypiperazin-4-yl)-propyl-1-phosphonic acid (CPP, 5 microM), an NMDA receptor antagonist, increased the recovery of PS to 88.3 +/- 24.5% after 6 mins ischemia, and to 42.1 +/- 18.7% after 7.5 mins ischemia. Thiopental (400 microM), thiamylal (400 microM), and ketamine (100 microM), but not propofol (100 microM) and etomidate (10 microM), improved the recovery of PS after 6 and 7.5 mins ischemia; the degrees of their protection were comparable to that of 5 microM CPP. The NMDA-mediated increases in intracellular calcium were almost completely inhibited by thiamylal, reduced to half by ketamine and thiopental, augmented by propofol, and not affected by etomidate.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that the efficacy of intravenous anesthetics in attenuating ischemic neuronal damage varies among agents, relating to their effects on NMDA receptors.

Interfacing a polymer-based micromachined device to a nanoelectrospray ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer

Here we report the design, fabrication, and operation of a polymer-based microchip device interfaced to a nanoelectrospray ionization source and a Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometer. The poly(methyl methacrylate) micromachined device was fabricated using X-ray lithography to produce a network of channels with high aspect ratios. Fabrication of high aspect ratio channels allows for zero dead volume interfaces between the microchip platform and the nanoelectrospray capillary interface. The performance of this device was evaluated with standard peptide and protein samples. High-quality mass spectral data from peptide and proteins (and mixtures thereof) were obtained without any interfering chemical noise from the polymer or the developers and plasticizers used in the fabrication process. Sample cross-contamination is not a problem using this polymer-based microchip device as demonstrated by the sequential analysis of several proteins. The nanoelectrospray source was operated at flow rates from 20 to 100 nL/min using pressure-driven flow, and uninterrupted operation for several hours is demonstrated without any noticeable signal degradation. The ability to fabricate multiple devices using injection molding or hot-embossing techniques of polymers provides a lower cost alternative to silica-based devices currently utilized with mass spectrometry.

[Characteristics of radiofrequency current catheter ablation in the treatment of elderly patients with supraventricular tachycardia]

To study the effects and characteristics of radiofrequency current catheter ablation (RFCA) in treatment of elderly patients with supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT), fifty-three elderly patients and fifty non-elderly patients with PSVT were included in this study. RFCA were performed in both groups. The group of elderly patients included 26 patients with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia and 27 patients with atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia due to 29 atrioventricular accessory pathways (Aps). Twenty-one patients were accompanied with hypertension and coronary heart diseases and 5 sick sinus syndrome cases in the elderly group. All patients in both groups were treated successfully with RFCA. The procedure time of ablation of slow pathway in elderly group was shorter than that of the non-elderly group (P < 0.01). A mild symptom of arterial thrombosis was found in 2 cases of the elderly group after treatment and was cured with aspirin. These results suggest that PFCA is very effective and safe in the treatment of elderly patients with PSVT, especially for patients accompanied with sick sinus syndrome.

The genetic structure of recombinant inbred mice: high-resolution consensus maps for complex trait analysis

BACKGROUND

Recombinant inbred (RI) strains of mice are an important resource used to map and analyze complex traits. They have proved particularly effective in multidisciplinary genetic studies. Widespread use of RI strains has been hampered by their modest numbers and by the difficulty of combining results derived from different RI sets.

RESULTS

We have increased the density of typed microsatellite markers two- to five-fold in each of several major RI sets that share C57BL/6 as a parental strain (AXB, BXA, BXD, BXH and CXB). A common set of 490 markers was genotyped in just over 100 RI strains. Genotypes of around 1,100 additional microsatellites in one or more RI sets were generated, collected and checked for errors. Consensus RI maps that integrate genotypes of approximately 1,600 microsatellite loci were assembled. The genomes of individual strains typically incorporate 45-55 recombination breakpoints. The collected RI set - termed the BXN set - contains approximately 5,000 breakpoints. The distribution of recombinations approximates a Poisson distribution and distances between breakpoints average about 0.5 centimorgans (cM). Locations of most breakpoints have been defined with a precision of < 2 cM. Genotypes deviate from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in only a small number of intervals.

CONCLUSIONS

Consensus maps derived from RI strains conform almost exactly to theoretical expectation and are close to the length predicted by the Haldane-Waddington equation (x3.6 for a 2-3 cM interval between markers). Non-syntenic associations between different chromosomes introduce predictable distortions in quantitative trait locus (QTL) datasets that can be partly corrected using two-locus correlation matrices.

Liarozole fumarate (R85246): in the treatment of ER negative, tamoxifen refractory or chemotherapy resistant postmenopausal metastatic breast cancer

Three phase II studies were conducted to determine the efficacy and tolerability of liarozole fumarate (R85246; liarozole), a retinoic acid metabolism blocking agent (RAMBA) and aromatase inhibitor. Additionally, animal experiments in the MNU-induced rat mammary tumor model and in immature ovariectomized rats were conducted to further elucidate liarozole's mechanisms of action. Patients were postmenopausal with either: ER negative disease in first relapse (Group 1: 1n = 16); ER positive or unknown disease refractory to tamoxifen (Group 2; n = 16); ER positive, negative or unknown disease resistant or refractory to chemotherapy (Group 3; n = 27). Treatment was liarozole (150-300mg) twice daily orally until disease progression. Response rates were: 25% in group 1 (95% CI 11.0-52.3%: median duration (MD) 20 months; range 2-36.5); 25% in group 2 (95% CI 11.0-52.3%; MD 6.5 months: range 3.5-38): 11% in group 3 (95% CI 4.2-29.2%; MD 7 months; range 3-8.5). No significant improvement in quality of life scores (FLI-C) was noted. Toxicities observed were predominantly dermatological (skin disorders: 88%; dry mouth/eyes/lips: 69%). Plasma estradiol decreased from mean pre-treatment levels of 72.7 pM (9.1-1,839 pM) to below detection (9.2 pM) after 1 month. Liarozole, but not vorozole, partially inhibited estradiol induced uterine hypertrophy and demonstrated dose-dependent anti-tumor effects in the rats, only partially overcome by coadministration of estradiol. The clinical responses observed, together with our preclinical results, confirm liarozole's dual mechanism of action and provide a rationale for further evaluation of RAMBAs in the treatment of breast cancer.

[Inhibiting effect of antisense oligodeoxynucleotide of alpha 1(I) Precollagen gene on hypertrophic scar in an animal model]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of antisense oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) of alpha 1(I) precollagen gene on hypertrophic scar in an animal model.

METHOD

Hypertrophic scar was explanted in athymic mice. The effect of antisense oligodeoxynucleotide 1 and 2 on the animal model and the inhibition of ODN1 and ODN2 were observed.

RESULT

It was showed that antisense oligo (ODN1, 21 bp) located 5'end from the translation start region and antisense oligo (ODN2, 22 bp) between the first exon and the first intron could effectively inhibit scar hypertrophy. However the control groups showed no inhibition.

CONCLUSION

Antisense oligodeoxynucleotide could effectively inhibit scar hypertrophy by inhibiting the synthesis of type I collagen protein.

Coordinate expression of novel genes during osteoblast differentiation

To achieve new insights into the coordinate regulation of gene expression during osteoblast differentiation we utilized an approach involving global analysis of gene expression to obtain the identities of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) expressed using an established in vitro model of bone development. MC3T3-E1 osteoblast-like cells were induced to differentiate by the addition of beta-glycerophosphate (beta-GP) and ascorbic acid. RNA samples derived from induced and uninduced control MC3T3-E1 cells were used to prepare complementary DNA (cDNA) for serial analysis of gene expression (SAGE). A preliminary SAGE database was produced and used to prepare a hybridization array to further facilitate the characterization of changes in the expression levels of 92 of the SAGE-mRNA assignments after induction of osteoblast differentiation, specifically after 6 days and 14 days of ascorbate treatment. SAGE-array hybridization analysis revealed coordinate induction of a number of mRNAs including Rab24, calponin, and calcyclin. Levels of MSY-1, SH3P2, fibronectin, alpha-collagen, procollagen, and LAMPI mRNAs, present at day 6 postinduction, were markedly reduced by day 14 postinduction. A number of unanticipated and potentially important developmental genes were identified including the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily member Lefty-1. Lefty-1 transcript and translation product were found to be induced during the course of MC3T3-E1 cell differentiation. We present evidence, using transient transfection and antibody neutralization approaches, that Lefty-1 modulates the induction of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) after treatment of MC3T3-E1 cells with ascorbate and beta-GP. These data should provide useful new information for future analysis of transcriptional events in osteoblast differentiation and mineralization.

Compromised kidney graft rejection response in Vervet monkeys after withdrawal of immunosuppressants tacrolimus and sirolimus

BACKGROUND

In nonprimates, organ allografts are often not rejected after withdrawal of immunosuppression. In this study, we examined whether such a phenomenon also occurs in primates.

METHODS

Vervet monkeys were transplanted with renal allografts and treated for 60 days with tacrolimus, or tacrolimus plus sirolimus. The drugs were totally withdrawn on day 61. The survival of the monkeys was monitored, and their response to donor- or third party-derived alloantigens was examined in vivo and in vitro.

RESULTS

The majority (80-100%) of the grafts survived for at least additional 30 days with no signs of acute rejection. The compromised rejection is donor-specific, because recipient monkeys failed to reject a donor-derived skin graft, but a third-party skin graft was rejected. In vitro mixed lymphocyte reaction and interleukin-2 production in the mixed lymphocyte reaction between the recipients and their donors or between the recipients and a third party had no discernable patterns, and thus did not reflect the in vivo status of the immune system. Although the recipients could not reject the graft acutely after drug withdrawal, the kidney grafts and the donor-derived skin grafts had pathological findings of chronic rejection.

CONCLUSIONS

The rejection response of the monkeys to an established graft after withdrawal of immunosuppression is compromised. The compromised rejection is specific and is not due to a permanent alteration of the immune system by the initial drug treatment. The allografts are not inert but have low levels of interaction with the recipient immune system.

Effect of tacrolimus (FK506) and sirolimus (rapamycin) mono- and combination therapy in prolongation of renal allograft survival in the monkey

BACKGROUND

Our previous studies confirmed that tacrolimus (FK506) and sirolimus [rapamycin (RAPA)], in combination, are not antagonistic but are synergistic in the prolongation of heart and small bowel grafts in the rodent. The aim of this study was to confirm further the synergistic effect of combined FK506 and RAPA in the more clinically relevant model, kidney transplantation in monkeys.

METHODS

A total of 60 male Vervet monkeys were randomly assigned to 10 groups (n> or =5). Monkeys with renal allografts were treated with different doses of FK506 and/or RAPA orally for 60 days. Graft survival, body weight, clinical biochemistry determinations, oral glucose tolerance test, trough levels of the two drugs, and histopathology were investigated.

RESULTS

Low doses of FK506 (1 or 4 mg/kg) combined with RAPA (0.5 mg/kg) produced synergistic effect in the prolongation of renal graft survival [combination index (CI) = 0.292, 0.565]. There were no additive or synergistic drug-associated toxicities such as hyperglycemia, nephrotoxicity, and hyperlipidemia. There also was no pharmacological antagonism.

CONCLUSION

Concomitant therapy of low-dose (drug-optimal) FK506 and RAPA produced a synergistic effect in the prolongation of kidney allograft survival in Vervet monkeys without additive drug-associated toxicities.

Expression and regulation of the messenger ribonucleic acid encoding the prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor in the rat myometrium during pregnancy and labor

OBJECTIVE

We examined expression of messenger ribonucleic acid encoding the prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor in the rat myometrium throughout late gestation and its regulation by progesterone and mechanical stretch.

STUDY DESIGN

Normal pregnant rats were killed on gestational day 15, 22, or 23 (during labor) or 1 day post partum. The effects of progesterone on prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor messenger ribonucleic acid levels were investigated by daily injections of progesterone (4 mg) from day 20 of normal gestation or from day 17 in rats bilaterally ovariectomized on day 17. To investigate the effects of myometrial stretch, unilaterally pregnant rats underwent either sham surgery or placement of a polyvinyl tube 3 mm in diameter in the nongravid uterine horn on day 15 or 18 and were killed 5 days later. Prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor messenger ribonucleic acid levels in the myometrium were determined by a semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction method.

RESULTS

Myometrial prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor messenger ribonucleic acid levels significantly increased during both term and ovariectomy-induced preterm labor. This increase was blocked by progesterone. In rats with unilateral pregnancies prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor messenger ribonucleic acid levels in the nongravid horns were similar to those in the contralateral gravid horns on day 20 and during labor regardless of whether they were stretched by a 3-mm tube.

CONCLUSION

Increased myometrial expression of prostaglandin F(2alpha) receptor messenger ribonucleic acid during term and preterm labor is temporally associated with progesterone withdrawal but is not dependent on mechanical stretch of the myometrium.

Blocking of CD44-hyaluronic acid interaction prolongs rat allograft survival

BACKGROUND

Lymphocyte activation and infiltration into a transplanted organ is an integral component of the rejection process. Graft infiltration of lymphocytes requires adhesion of leukocytes to the endothelium, diapedesis, and transmigration. One of several proteins involved in this process is CD44, which is known to interact with endothelial hyaluronan (HA). Blockade of cell-matrix and cell-cell interactions have been used extensively for modulation of immune responses and graft rejection. Based on these observations, we evaluated the effects of blocking CD44-HA interactions in a transplantation model.

METHODS

We used a low molecular weight hyaluronic acid formulation (LMWHA) for the treatment of rat renal and cardiac allograft recipients. LMWHA was administered intraperitoneally at 0.5-5 mg/kg for 5-10 days after transplantation with or without a subtherapeutic dose of cyclosporine.

RESULTS

LMWHA monotherapy prolonged allograft survival significantly, but only for a few days. In combination with low-dose cyclosporine, long-term survival of allografts was observed in some of recipients.

CONCLUSION

Further definition of the underlying mechanism of LMWHA therapy may provide a rationale for the development of novel, nontoxic, nonimmunogenic immunotherapies.

[Effects of Asiaticoside on hypertrophic scars in a nude mice model]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of Asiaticoside on the fibroblast collagen biosynthesis in vitro culture and on the hypertrophic scar in a nude mice model, and its mechanism.

METHODS

Light microscope (LM) and electron microscope (EM) were employed to study the morphological changes in fibroblast before and after the application of Asiaticoside. The fibroblast collagen synthesis was assayed by (3)H-proline incorporation. A nude mice model with hypertrophic scar was established for observing the effect of Asiaticoside given by local injection.

RESULTS

It was found that Asiaticoside could significantly affect the ultrastructure of fibroblast and inhibit its collagen synthesis in vitro culture (P < 0.01) in a manner of dose-effect relationship. Local injection of Asiaticoside into the nude mouse body could inhibit the proliferation of scar without any toxic effect.

CONCLUSION

The possible mechanism of the effect of Asiaticoside on hypertrophic scars is related to its inhibitory action on the fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis.

Chromosomal localization of phospholipase A2 activating protein, an Ets2 target gene, to 9p21

A murine Ets2 target gene isolated by differential display cloning was identified as the phospholipase A2 activating protein (PLAA) gene. A 2.7-kb human cDNA demonstrating high homology to mouse and rat Plaa genes was then isolated and characterized. Human PLAA contains six WD-40 repeat motifs and three different protein kinase consensus domains. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) mapping placed PLAA on chromosome 9p21, a region frequently deleted in various cancers. A comprehensive mapping strategy was employed to define further the chromosomal localization of PLAA relative to CDKN2A within the 9p21 locus. Radiation hybrid mapping placed the gene 7.69 cR from WI-5735 (LOD >3.0), a marker in close proximity to CDKN2A and CDKN2B. Yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) mapping localized PLAA proximal to the CDKN2A/CDKN2B genes and to a region flanked by D9S171 and INFA commonly deleted in many neoplasms. Two YACs contained both PLAA and D9S259, a marker present in a second more proximal minimal deleted region observed in cutaneous melanoma and squamous cell lung carcinoma. Double-color fiber FISH mapping confirmed the location of PLAA centromeric to D9S171 and CDKN2A/CDKN2B. The mapping data suggest a possible tumor suppressor role for this gene.

Improved techniques for kidney transplantation in the monkey

Improved microsurgical techniques for kidney transplantation in the monkey are described. The left graft kidney is transplanted to the lower part of abdomen with end-to-side anastomoses of renal artery to aorta without a patch of aorta, renal vein to inferior vena cava, and end-to-end anastomosis of donor and recipient ureter with 8-0 nylon sutures in a bilateral nephrectomized recipient monkey. We recently performed 60 kidney transplantations in Vervet monkeys. None died of surgery or surgical complications. This reproducible model provides a useful tool to test new immunosuppressants and to investigate the mechanism of drug-induced tolerance and xenotransplantation in primates as a support to clinical trial.

Synergistic effect of rapamycin and cyclosporine in prevention of acute kidney allograft rejection in the mouse

The effect of rapamycin (RAPA) and cyclosporine A (CsA) monotherapy and combination therapy was examined in prevention of kidney allograft rejection in the mouse. Both drugs were administered orally for up to 14 days in BALB/c (H-2(d)) to C57BL/6 (H-2(b)) mice strong combination. Six groups were treated with RAPA and/or CsA. This study shows that concomitant therapy of RAPA and CsA produces strong synergistic interaction in prolonging renal allograft survival in mice when compared with monotherapy of RAPA or CsA.

Prolongation of rat heart allograft survival with K(+)ATP-dependent channel modulators

Controversies exist regarding the immunoregulatory properties of K(+) ATP channel modulators. We investigated the effects of aprikalim, a K(+) ATP-dependent channels activator, and glibenclamide and gliclazide, two inhibitors of K(+) ATP-dependent channels, on the prolongation of heart allograft survival in the rat. Nine groups (n >/= 5) were involved in this study with the Brown-Norway to Lewis rat combination treated with aprikalim, glibenclamide, gliclazide, and/or cyclosporine. The results indicate that modulators of K(+) ATP-dependent channels can improve the survival of rat heart allograft without interfering with the immunosuppressive properties of cyclosporine.

Effects of the 21-aminosteroid U74389G in a model of chronic myocardial infarction in the rat

21-Aminosteroids are a group of new synthetic compounds developed as antiperoxidants. Although several studies have demonstrated their cardioprotective properties in acute ischemic models, none has assessed their long-term benefits after chronic myocardial infarction. In this investigation, we examined the cardioprotective effects of U74389G, a novel 21-aminosteroid, in a model of chronic myocardial infarction in the rat. After permanent ligation of the proximal branch of the left coronary artery, the experimental animals were treated daily by gavage with U74389G (10 mg/kg) for 21 days. After the study period, harvested hearts were perfused ex vivo and submitted to cold cardioplegia with 90-min global ischemia and 30-min reperfusion (surgical stress). Myocardial function and coronary endothelial (bradykinin, 1 microM) and smooth muscle (sodium nitroprusside, 1 microM) reactivity were assessed before and after exposure to the surgical stress. Percentage infarct size of the left ventricle was computed as the ratio of infarct area (mg)/total left ventricle (mg) x 100. During or immediately after surgery, there were eight deaths, which were considered technical failures. No further deaths occurred during the follow-up period (21 days). Compared with vehicle-treated rats, long-term administration of U74389G elicited a significant reduction of infarct size (percentage of left ventricle, 9 +/- 5% in the U74389G-treated group vs. 32 +/- 5% in the vehicle-treated group; p < 0.01). Ex vivo heart-perfusion studies showed no significant difference in baseline coronary flow, left ventricular developed pressure, and heart rate between normal and chronic infarcted hearts treated with the vehicle or with U74389G. However, a reduced endothelium-dependent coronary dilator response was observed in infarcted hearts from vehicle-treated controls but not in those from U74389G-treated rats. When cardioplegia and global myocardial ischemia/reperfusion were added, most of the benefits from U74389G were lost. These results indicate that 21-aminosteroids can reverse oxygen-derived free radicals and lipid peroxidation-induced myocardial and coronary dysfunction associated with chronic myocardial infarction. However, additive protective measures are required when an acute ischemic stress is superimposed.

Nanoliter-scale sample preparation methods directly coupled to polymethylmethacrylate-based microchips and gel-filled capillaries for the analysis of oligonucleotides

We are currently developing miniaturized, chip-based electrophoresis devices fabricated in plastics for the high-speed separation of oligonucleotides. One of the principal advantages associated with these devices is their small sample requirements, typically in the nanoliter to sub-nanoliter range. Unfortunately, most standard sample preparation protocols, especially for oligonucleotides, are done off-chip on a microliter-scale. Our work has focused on the development of capillary nanoreactors coupled to micro-separation platforms, such as micro-electrophoresis chips, for the preparation of sequencing ladders and also polymerase chain reactions (PCRs). These nanoreactors consist of fused-silica capillary tubes (10-20 cm x 20-50 microns I.D.) with fluid pumping accomplished using the electroosmotic flow generated by the tubes. These reactors were situated in fast thermal cyclers to perform cycle sequencing or PCR amplification of the DNAs. The reactors could be interfaced to either a micro-electrophoresis chips via capillary connectors micromachined in polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) using deep X-ray etching (width 50 microns; depth 50 microns) or conventional capillary gel tubes using zero-dead volume glass unions. For our chips, they also contained an injector, separation channel (length 6 cm; width 30 microns; depth 50 microns) and a dual fiber optic, near-infrared fluorescence detector. The sequencing nanoreactor used surface immobilized templates attached to the wall via a biotin-streptavidin-biotin linkage. Sequencing tracks could be directly injected into gel-filled capillary tubes with minimal degradation in the efficiency of the separation process. The nanoreactor could also be configured to perform PCR reactions by filling the capillary tube with the PCR reagents and template. After thermal cycling, the PCR cocktail could be pooled from multiple reactors and loaded onto a slab gel or injected into a capillary tube or microchip device for fractionation.

[Experiences of early management of mass burn casualties]

OBJECTIVE

Inquire into the effective method of treatment to mass burn casualties.

METHODS

The experiences of 22 batches of mass burns (403 cases) were reviewed.

RESULTS

1. The receiving hospital should take effective measures for initial care, and report to the higher health department. 2. Health department should send additional specialists to the hospital if necessary, and a leader should be appointed. 3. Ambulances with special pass or helicopter should be deployed to ensure dispatch of the helpers. 4. Emphasis on local hospital's initial treatments, including fluid resuscitation, establishment of an adequate airway, early wound management to prevent and premature dissolution of eschar. 5. Proper triage of patients, and severe burn patients should be hospitalized to burn units with adequate facilities. 6. Transportation: Patients can be transferred along where there are good transportation facilities, with fluid resuscitation, on the other hand, when transportation if poorly developed, transfer the patients after fluid resuscitation until the general condition becomes stable.

CONCLUSION

1. Mass burn casualties can be handled with satisfactory results if emergency care and professional treatment are well organized. 2. Mass burn casualties are usually caused by human errors, therefore they can be prevented.

Immunomodulating effects of second-generation calcium channel blockers on experimental heart transplantation

The administration of second-generation calcium channel blockers (CCBs) to counteract the adverse effects of conventional immunosuppression gains more and more acceptance. Since these newly developed molecules differ in their chemical structure and possess specific pharmacokinetic profiles, we hypothesized that exposure to clinically relevant concentrations may have a significant immunomodulatory potential. The effects of various second-generation CCBs, felodipine, amlodipine, mibefradil and clentiazem, on cardiac allograft survival were therefore evaluated. Inbred male Lewis rats were used as recipients and Brown-Norway rats as donors. After abdominal implantation of the donor heart, allograft recipients were exposed to felodipine (31 microg/kg/day), amlodipine (25 microg/kg/day), mibefradil (3 mg/kg/day) or clentiazem (2.5 mg/kg/day). Other allograft recipients were treated with low-dose cyclosporine (CsA) alone (2 mg/kg/day) or with low-dose CsA combined with amlodipine (25 microg/kg/day), mibefradil (3 mg/kg/day) or clentiazem (2.5 mg/kg/day). All drugs were given daily by gavage. Median survival time of untreated cardiac allografts was 6.5 days. When given alone, not all the second-generation CCBs elicited a positive effect: the dihydropyridines felodipine and amlodipine were ineffective (median survival time was 6.5 and 7.0 days, respectively), the T- and L-type CCB mibefradil had a significant but minor impact (median survival time = 9.0 days, p <0.0015) while the benzothiazepine clentiazem produced the most significant result (median survival time = 16.0 days, p <0.0033). Neither amlodipine nor mibefradil modified the extent of survival provided by low-dose CsA (median survival time = 9.0 days), while clentiazem had a significant positive effect. These data indicate that second-generation CCBs differ in their immunomodulatory potential. These observations of pharmacodynamic specificity appear to be related to differences in their chemical structure as well as their interaction with other sites than the calcium channel.

[Dose-effect of inhaled nitric oxide on pulmonary hypertension in inhaled injury in rabbits]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relation of dose-response of NO inhalation in treatment of pulmonary hypertension in rabbits with smoke inhalation injury.

METHODS

The effect of various concentrations (1, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60) x 10(-6) of NO on pulmonary hypertension after smoke inhalation injury was studied with right heart catheterization in 15 rabbits.

RESULTS

Mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP), pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP), pulmonary minute vessel pressure (Pmv), and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) were not changed remarkably (P > 0.05) after inhalation of (1 or 5) x 10(-6) NO. mPAP, PCWP, and Pmv were lowered significantly after inhalation of (10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60) x 10(-6) NO (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Major vascular relaxation occurred when NO concentration was at 30 x 10(-6), and PVR did not further decrease along with the increase of NO concentration.

CONCLUSION

The concentration of inhaled NO should not exceed 30 x 10(-6) for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension in early stage of smoke inhalation.

Examination of POU homeobox gene expression in human breast cancer cells

Abnormal expression of homeobox genes may lead to the development of leukemias, lymphomas, and solid tumors. Expression of homeobox genes in mammary glands, however, has not been studied actively until recently. We have examined the expression of POU homeobox genes in human breast cancer cell lines and human breast tissue samples. Using a pair of degenerate primers for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) followed by DNA sequencing, we found that the human breast cancer cell line, MCF7, expresses at least 4 POU gene products: OCT1, OCT2, OCT3 and OCT11 (Skn-1a/i, Epoc-1). The expression of OCT1 and OCT2 in other human breast epithelial cell lines was further determined by Western blot analyses and electrophoretic mobility shift assay. We were unable to detect OCT11 in human breast cancer cell lines using the anti rat Skn-1a/i antibody, although the expression of this gene in both human breast cancer cell lines and human primary breast tumors was detected by RT-PCR. OCT3 is an embryonic transcription factor. We found that this gene is also expressed in human breast cancer cell lines and all human primary breast carcinomas examined, but not in normal human breast tissue. Taken together, we have shown that several POU genes are expressed in human breast epithelial cells. As OCT3 expression was detected only in the breast cancerous cells, this embryonic transcription factor could play an important role in mammary gland carcinogenesis.

[The changes of plasma endothelin concentration and its clinical significance in pulmonary hypertension associated with congenital heart defects]

Plasma endothelin (ET) concentration was measured by means of radioimmunoassay in 38 patients with congeital heart defects among whom 15 patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH) and 23 patients without pulmonary hypertension (non-PH). Blood samples were obtained separately from the femoral vein, right atrium, right ventricle, main pulmonary artery and the femoral artery during catherization. Plasma ET concentration in the PH group was significantly higher than that in the non-PH group at all four sampling sites. In the PH group plasma ET concentration in the pulmonary artery showed higher than that of the right ventricle and the femoral artery, which was significantly in positive correlation with pulmonary artery pressure. It is considered that the elevation of ET plays an important physiological role in the formation of pulmonary hypertension.

[Single-catheter approach to radiofrequency current ablation of accessory pathway in Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome with recurrent rapid atrial fibrillation]

Twelve patients with WPW were treated by single-catheter ablation. Eight patients had the histories of recurrent rapid atrial fibrillation(Af) and refractory to antiarrhythmic agents. Ventricular rate varied between 250-300 bpm. Defibrillation was needed in three patients, and one had syncope. All patients were treated successfully by ablation of accessory pathway with single-catheter approach and no Af occurred during the procedures. This result suggests that the single-catheter ablation may be an effective and feasible treatment for these patients with WPW and may be helpful in avoiding Af in multiple-catheter introducing procedure.

[Radiofrequency catheter ablation of idiopathic ventricular tachycardia]

Thirteen consecutive patients with idiopathic ventricular tachycardia underwent radiofrequency catheter ablation. This group included 9 idopathic left ventricular tachycardia (ILVT) and 4 idiopathic right ventricular tachycardia (IRVT). Five ILVT patients with left axis deviation and one with right axis deviation were ablated successfully. By pace mapping, two IRVT patients with ventricular tachycardia originating from right ventricular out-flow tract were ablated. No complications occured. By means of follow-up of 3-22 months one case showed recurrence with successful reablation. It indicates that radiofrequency catheter ablation therapy is an effective and safe procedure in patients with idiopathic ventricular tachycardia.

Synergistic effects of mycophenolate mofetil and sirolimus in prevention of acute heart, pancreas, and kidney allograft rejection and in reversal of ongoing heart allograft rejection in the rat

BACKGROUND

The effect of mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) and sirolimus (rapamycin, RAPA) mono- and combination-therapy was examined in prevention of acute heart, pancreas, and kidney allograft rejection and in reversal of ongoing heart allograft rejection in the rat.

METHODS

Both drugs were administered orally for up to 30 days. Eleven groups (n=6) were involved in the first part of the heart allografting model. Brown Norway (RT1n) to Lewis (RT1(1)) combination was used in the heart and pancreas transplantation models, whereas Buffalo (RT1b) to Wistar Furth (RT1u) was used in the kidney transplantation model.

RESULTS

The naive control group showed a mean survival time of 6.5+/-0.6 days. There were graded dose-responses to monotherapy of MMF 10 and 20 mg(kg/ day (12.5+/-2.6 days; 19.3+/-9.0 days) and RAPA 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, and 1.8 mg/kg/day (19.2+/-2.0 days; 30.0+/-7.3 days; 50.8+/-12.5 days; 51.2+/-2.6 days), respectively (P=0.001). Results with the combined use of drugs indicate that a synergistic or very strong synergistic interaction was produced when compared with monotherapy of MMF or RAPA: MMF 10 mg(kg/day+RAPA 0.2 mg/kg(day (52.7+/-5.7 days, combination index [CI] =0.189), MMF 20 mg(kg/day+RAPA 0.2 mg/kg/day (57.7+/-5.7 days, CI=0.084), MMF 10 mg/kg/day+RAPA 0.4 mg(kg/day (50.2+/-13.5 days, CI=0.453), and MMF 20 mg/kg(day+ RAPA 0.4 mg/kg(day (51.5+/-6.8 days, CI=0.439), respectively. These results were repeatable in the prevention of acute pancreas and kidney allograft rejection in the rat. In the second part of the study of reversal of ongoing acute heart allograft rejection model, the combined treatment of MMF 10 mg/kg(day+RAPA 0.2 mg/ kg(day (35.5+/-16.0 days, CI=0.794) and MMF 20 mg/kg day+RAPA 0.2 mg(kg/day (57.2+/-4.7 days, CI=0.310) represented synergistic interaction compared with monotherapy of MMF or RAPA.

CONCLUSIONS

Concomitant therapy of MMF and RAPA produces a synergistic effect in prevention of heart, pancreas, and kidney allograft rejection and in reversal of ongoing heart allograft rejection in the rat.

Increased expression of the rat myometrial oxytocin receptor messenger ribonucleic acid during labor requires both mechanical and hormonal signals

We investigated the expression of the mRNA encoding the oxytocin receptor (OTR) in rat myometrium throughout gestation and its regulation by progesterone and mechanical stretch. Using a semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction approach, OTR mRNA was found to increase abruptly at the onset of spontaneous labor at term. Progesterone (4 mg/day) starting on Day 20 of gestation blocked this increase. Ovariectomy on Day 17 induced preterm labor 96 h after surgery and a significant increase in myometrial OTR mRNA levels 48 and 96 h after surgery. Both preterm labor and the rise in myometrial OTR expression were blocked by progesterone. To investigate the effects of stretch on myometrial OTR mRNA expression, unilaterally pregnant rats underwent either sham operation or placement of a tube in the nongravid uterine horn to distend the myometrium. On Day 20, stretch had no effect on OTR expression in the nongravid horns. During labor, OTR mRNA was highly expressed in the gravid horns as well as the nongravid stretched horns. In contrast, the level remained low in the nongravid unstretched horns. These results indicate that expression of rat myometrial OTR mRNA during pregnancy and labor is regulated by coordinated interactions between mechanical and endocrine signals.

De novo-developed T cells have compromised response to existing alloantigens: using Ld-specific transgenic 2C T cells as tracers in a mouse heart transplantation model

In this study, the phenotype, TCR signaling events, and function of T cells developed de novo during adulthood in the presence of extrathymic alloantigen were investigated. C57BL/6 mice(H-2b) were first transplanted heterotopically with BALB/c hearts (H-2d) and treated with rapamycin for 2 wk to create a tolerant status. Three weeks postoperation, the mice were whole body irradiated and transplanted with bone marrow cells from 2C mice, which are transgenic for TCR, and most of their T cells are Ld-specific CD8 cells. The 2C T cells developed de novo in the C57BL/6 mice were not able to reject the heart allograft. No clonal deletion, TCR down-regulation, or CD8 down-regulation was found in the tolerized 2C T cells. There was no characteristic phenotype of these cells in terms of CD25, ICAM-1, CD44, and MEL-14 expression. Early TCR signaling events such as intracellular calcium concentration flux, tyrosine phosphorylation, Lck and Fyn kinase activities, and Lck and Fyn protein levels in the tolerized 2C T cells were comparable to their normal counterparts, but the tolerized T cells were defective in IL-2 production and proliferation upon H-2d alloantigen stimulation in vitro. Exogenous IL-2 could not reverse the compromised proliferation. The results of this study indicate that during adulthood, the de novo-developed T cells become tolerant to extrathymic Ag without clonal deletion. These newly minted T cells are functionally defective although they are indistinguishable from normal T cells in phenotypes and in some early signaling events.

Tacrolimus (FK506) and sirolimus (rapamycin) in combination are not antagonistic but produce extended graft survival in cardiac transplantation in the rat

Combined use of tacrolimus (FK506) with sirolimus (rapamycin [RAPA]) was examined in a model of vascularized heart allograft in the rat. For prevention of acute rejection, three different combinations of low doses of FK506 and RAPA from day 1 up to day 14 after transplantation produced significantly longer cardiac allograft survival than each agent alone (P<0.05). Identical results were observed in a model of reversal of ongoing acute rejection, where two combinations of low doses of FK506 and RAPA from day 4 up to day 18 after surgery also demonstrated significantly longer graft survival than each immunosuppressant alone (P<0.05). All the low-dose-treated groups in these two models presented significantly longer heart graft survival than naive controls (P<0.05), confirming that both agents are potent immunosuppressants in the models chosen. These results also indicate that, in contrast with in vitro studies, the combined use of FK506 and RAPA in vivo did not produce antagonism, but rather had synergistic effect in prolonging the allograft survival as compared with each agent alone. It appears likely that the abundance of FKBP-12 available for binding in vivo prevents inhibitive competition of the two agents for their receptor.

[Study on expression of adherent proteins related to regulation of hematopoiesis in long-term cultured human bone marrow stromal cells]

OBJECTIVE

To study the molecular basis of bone marrow stromal cell supporting hematopoiesis.

METHODS

Immunoelectron microscopic localization of adherent protein related to regulation of hematopoiesis was performed by immunocolloidal gold labelling technique in the adherent layer of long-term cultured human bone marrow stromal cells (LTCHBMSC).

RESULTS

Adherent proteins were found to be expressed on LTCHBMSC. Double labelling revealed co-expression of these proteins and some specific markers for endothelial cells (vWF) and fibroblasts (Fb-sp). It was suggested that endothelial cells and fibroblasts in LTCHBMSC could synthesize and secrete adherent proteins, which bound to the surface of stromal cells and extracellular matrix.

CONCLUSION

Adherent proteins and all kinds of hematopoietic growth factors secreted by stromal cells constitute a complex network supporting hematopoiesis.

Major origin of mutagenicity of chlorinated drinking water in China: humic acid or pollutants

Since Loper and Glatz (J. Toxicol. Environ. Health, 4:919-938;1978) discovered the presence of the mutagenicity in drinking water after chlorination in 1978, humic acid (HA) has been considered as an important source. But our research results show that only 1/8 of observed direct frameshift mutagenicity in tap water originated from chlorination of HA isolated from raw water. Contamination from industrial waste and human settlement (night soil) are important potential sources of mutagenicity in chlorinated drinking water. The results show that mutagenicity from night soil after chlorination depended upon pH of sample. Production of mutagenicity at pH 6 is ten times of that at pH 8, and decomposition process is necessary condition for mutagenicity production. Season variation of mutagenicity of tap is also presented in the paper.