Determination of f(s)/f(d) for 7 TeV pp collisions and measurement of the B0→D-K+ branching fraction

The relative abundance of the three decay modes B(0)→D(-)K(+), B(0)→D(-)π(+), and B(s)(0)→D(s)(-)π(+) produced in 7 TeV pp collisions at the LHC is determined from data corresponding to an integrated luminosity of 35 pb(-1). The branching fraction of B(0)→D(-)K(+) is found to be B(B(0)→D(-)K(+)) = (2.01 ± 0.18(stat) ± 0.14(syst)) × 10(-4). The ratio of fragmentation fractions f(s)/f(d) is determined through the relative abundance of B(s)(0)→D(s)(-)π(+) to B(0)→D(-)K(+) and B(0)→D(-)π(+), leading to f(s)/f(d) = 0.253 ± 0.017 ± 0.017 ± 0.020, where the uncertainties are statistical, systematic, and theoretical, respectively.

cDNA cloning, genomic structure and mRNA expression pattern of porcine type I interferons receptor 2 gene

Type I interferons (IFN) are important mediators of the host defence against viruses through binding to the cell surface receptors, among which the binding to type I IFN receptor 2 (IFNAR2) is the very first step initiating a complex signal transduction cascade. By using RT-PCR and 5' RACE approaches, we obtained porcine IFNAR2 cDNA, the nucleotide identity of its coding region is 57.53%, 67.45%, 74.07% and 74.63% to those of mouse, human, sheep and cattle, respectively; and the deduced protein of which shares 38.18%, 55.29%, 62.01% and 63.39% identity to those of mouse, human, sheep and cattle, respectively. The genomic structure of porcine IFNAR2 gene consists of nine exons and eight introns. Porcine IFNAR2 mRNA expression was detected in all tissues examined, being strong in the spleen, small intestine, cerebrum and uterus tissues and relatively weak in the stomach tissues. As compared with piglets, the expression of IFNAR2 mRNA was significantly higher in both liver and spleen of Laiwu adult pigs (P < 0.01); in Duroc pigs, however, significantly higher IFNAR2 mRNA expression was only found in adult liver (P < 0.05). In Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire commercial pigs infected with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), the expression of IFNAR2 mRNA in lung tissue was significantly down-regulated as compared to uninfected ones (P < 0.05).

Abstract 3562: Loss of the PTEN and RB1 tumor suppressors attenuates RAF-dependence in melanomas

Oncogenic BRAF mutations are found in ∼8% of human tumors, with the highest frequency observed in melanoma (40-70%). BRAF mutations are common in nevi suggesting that BRAF mutation alone is insufficient for tumorigenesis. To identify concurrent mutations that condition BRAF/MEK dependence in V600E BRAF melanoma, we genotyped a panel of 149 melanoma cell lines. Seventy-eight cell lines (52%) harbored BRAF mutations with 72 of which are V600E mutants. Proteomic profiling of 41 out of the 72 V600E BRAF mutant cell lines demonstrated significant variability in the expression of PTEN and pAKT. Nine cell lines harboring V600E BRAF mutations express no PTEN protein and high pAKT by immunoblotting. All of the nine cell lines harbored small (1-2) base-pair insertions or deletions, missense mutations or focal deletions encompassing the PTEN locus. We have previously reported that mutations of BRAF are associated with enhanced and selective sensitivity to MEK inhibition when compared to either receptor tyrosine kinase-driven cells or cells harboring a RAS mutation. To determine the MAPK pathway dependence of V600E BRAF mutant cell lines as a function of PTEN expression, we used PD0325901, a selective allosteric inhibitor of MEK1/2. All V600E BRAF mutant, PTEN expressing cell lines were sensitive to PD0325901. All but two of the V600E BRAF mutant, PTEN null cells were also dependent upon MEK for proliferation. These data suggest that PTEN loss is insufficient to confer resistance to MAPK-pathway inhibition. Examination of the two models which displayed complete resistance to MEK inhibition (IC50 &gt; 3,000 nM) revealed the presence of concurrent loss of PTEN and RB1. Inactivation of Rb functions by expressing human papillomavirus E7 protein in three BRAF mutant, PTEN-null models led to failure of the cells to arrest in G1 and complete resistance to MEK-inhibition. Moreover, RB1 alterations were mutually exclusive with loss of p16INK4A, suggesting that whereas p16INK4A and RB1 may have overlapping roles in preventing tumor formation, tumors with functional loss of RB1 exhibit diminished dependence upon BRAF signaling for cell proliferation. V600EBRAF/RB-null/PTEN-null models were also resistant to the selective RAF inhibitor PLX4720. Consistent with these in vitro results, V600EBRAF/RB-null/PTEN-null xenografts were resistant to RAF and MEK inhibition whereas V600EBRAF/WTRB/PTEN-null cells exhibited an intermediate phenotype. These findings provide a genetic basis for the heterogeneity of clinical outcomes in patients treated with targeted inhibitors of the MAP kinase pathway. Our results also suggest a need for comprehensive screening for RB1 and PTEN inactivation in patients treated with RAF and MEK-selective inhibitors to determine whether these alterations are associated with diminished clinical benefit in patients whose cancers harbor mutant BRAF.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 102nd Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2011 Apr 2-6; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2011;71(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 3562. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2011-3562

Genomic structure and characterization of mRNA expression pattern of porcine interferon gamma receptor 1 gene

Interferon gamma receptor (IFNGR) plays an important role in the biological effects of IFN-γ. In this study, porcine IFNGR1 cDNA was cloned and two transcripts both having a coding region of 1413 bp were identified. Porcine IFNGR1 cDNA shares 62.95%, 63.73%, 72.90% and 81.10% identity in nucleotide sequence; and 45.64%, 46.69%, 58.04% and 72.55% homology in amino acid sequence to those of rat, mouse, human and cattle, respectively. The porcine IFNGR1 genomic structure consists of seven exons and six introns and is located on porcine chromosome 1. The mRNA expression of porcine IFNGR1 gene is detected in all tissues examined, with strong expression in spleen and liver tissues and weak expression in cerebrum, cerebellum and uterus tissues, respectively. A different developmental pattern in IFNGR1 mRNA expression between Laiwu and Duroc breeds was revealed by real-time quantitative RT-PCR: in Duroc pigs, a significantly higher expression was found in the tissues of heart (P<0.05), liver (P<0.01), kidney (P<0.01) and skeletal muscle (P<0.05) of adult pigs compared to piglets. In porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)-infected Dapulian pigs, compared to the uninfected ones, the expression level of IFNGR1 mRNA in spleen was significantly up-regulated (P<0.05), whereas its expression in the lymph node was significantly down-regulated (P<0.05); in PRRSV-infected Duroc × Yorkshire × Landrace commercial pigs, however, the differences both in spleen and lymph node tissues were not significant.

Abstract 2521: The pan-RAF inhibitor PLX4032 inhibits ERK signaling and tumor cell proliferation in a V600E BRAF mutant-selective manner

Activation of the RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK pathway occurs often in human cancer. Tumors with mutant BRAF and some with mutant RAS are dependent upon ERK signaling for proliferation and their growth is suppressed by selective inhibitors of MEK. In contrast, tumor cells with HER-kinase activation proliferate in a MEK-independent manner. These findings have led to the development of RAF and MEK inhibitors as anticancer agents. Like MEK inhibitors, the pan-RAF kinase inhibitor PLX4032 inhibits the proliferation of V600E BRAF mutant tumor cells, but not that of HER kinase dependent tumors. However, tumors with RAS mutation that are sensitive to MEK inhibition are insensitive to PLX4032. Whereas MEK inhibitors inhibit ERK phosphorylation in all normal and tumor cells, PLX4032 only inhibits ERK signaling in tumor cells with BRAF mutation. In contrast, the drug activates MEK and ERK phosphorylation in cells with wild-type BRAF. In mutant BRAF cells, the MEK and RAF inhibitors affect the expression of a common set of genes, whereas they have opposite effects on the expression of these genes in tumors with mutant RAS. Furthermore, PLX4032 inhibits ERK signaling output in mutant BRAF cells, but transiently activates it in tumor cells with wild-type RAF. Thus, PLX4032 inhibits ERK signaling output in a BRAF mutant-selective manner. These data suggest that PLX4032 may have a broader therapeutic index and help to explain the greater antitumor activity observed with this drug compared to MEK inhibitors, which inhibit ERK signaling in all cells.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 2521.

Abstract 1971: Concurrent loss of PTEN and RB is sufficient to confer BRAF independence in melanomas harboring V600E BRAF mutations

BRAF mutations are found in ∼8% of human tumors, with the highest frequency observed in melanoma (40-70%). Supporting its classification as an oncogene, V600E BRAF stimulates ERK signaling, induces proliferation and is capable in model systems of promoting transformation. BRAF mutations are, however, common in nevi suggesting that BRAF mutation alone is insufficient for tumorigenesis. With the goal of identifying concurrent mutations that condition BRAF/MEK dependence in V600E BRAF melanoma, we performed MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry genotyping on a panel of 149 melanoma cell lines. Seventy-nine (53%) harbored BRAF mutations. Proteomic profiling of the class of V600E BRAF mutant cell lines demonstrated significant variability in the expression of PTEN and pAKT. Nine cells lines harboring V600E BRAF mutations were found to express no PTEN protein and high pAKT by immunoblotting. The majority of these cell lines had small (1-2) base-pair insertions or deletions leading to a frame shift and early truncation. Array CGH confirmed focal homozygous deletion of the PTEN gene in three of the models. These deletions were small and in one case detected by the Agilent 1M but not the 244K platform. We have previously reported that mutations of BRAF are associated with enhanced and selective sensitivity to MEK inhibition when compared to either receptor tyrosine kinase-driven cells or cells harboring a RAS mutation. To determine the MAPK pathway dependence of V600E BRAF mutant cell lines as a function of PTEN expression, we used PD0325901, a selective allosteric inhibitor of MEK1/2. All V600E BRAF mutant, PTEN expressing cell lines were sensitive to PD0325901. All but two of the V600E BRAF mutant, PTEN null cells were also dependent upon MEK for proliferation with IC50 values ranging from 1.1 to &gt;500nM. These data suggest that PTEN loss is insufficient to confer resistance to MAPK-pathway inhibition. Further characterization of the two models which displayed complete resistance to MEK inhibition revealed that both harbored concurrent loss of PTEN and RB. These models were also resistant to the selective RAF inhibitor PLX4720. To determine whether loss of RB function was sufficient to confer RAF/MEK-independence in a BRAF mutant, PTEN-null context, we stably infected viral E7 into three MEK-dependent, BRAF mutant, PTEN null models. Infection of E7 led to resistance to MEK-inhibition in all three models. These data suggest that no single mutational event is likely associated with de novo resistance to MEK-inhibition in V600E BRAF mutant melanoma. Loss of PTEN expression and activation of AKT may however be associated with diminished responsiveness to RAF/MEK-inhibition. Further, tumors with concurrent PTEN and RB loss may represent a subset of BRAF mutant patients who derive no clinical benefit from inhibitors of the MAPK pathway such as PLX4032.

Citation Format: {Authors}. {Abstract title} [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 101st Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research; 2010 Apr 17-21; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2010;70(8 Suppl):Abstract nr 1971.

Transcriptional pathway signatures predict MEK addiction and response to selumetinib (AZD6244)

Selumetinib (AZD6244, ARRY-142886) is a selective, non-ATP-competitive inhibitor of mitogen-activated protein/extracellular signal-regulated kinase kinase (MEK)-1/2. The range of antitumor activity seen preclinically and in patients highlights the importance of identifying determinants of response to this drug. In large tumor cell panels of diverse lineage, we show that MEK inhibitor response does not have an absolute correlation with mutational or phospho-protein markers of BRAF/MEK, RAS, or phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) activity. We aimed to enhance predictivity by measuring pathway output through coregulated gene networks displaying differential mRNA expression exclusive to resistant cell subsets and correlated to mutational or dynamic pathway activity. We discovered an 18-gene signature enabling measurement of MEK functional output independent of tumor genotype. Where the MEK pathway is activated but the cells remain resistant to selumetinib, we identified a 13-gene signature that implicates the existence of compensatory signaling from RAS effectors other than PI3K. The ability of these signatures to stratify samples according to functional activation of MEK and/or selumetinib sensitivity was shown in multiple independent melanoma, colon, breast, and lung tumor cell lines and in xenograft models. Furthermore, we were able to measure these signatures in fixed archival melanoma tumor samples using a single RT-qPCR-based test and found intergene correlations and associations with genetic markers of pathway activity to be preserved. These signatures offer useful tools for the study of MEK biology and clinical application of MEK inhibitors, and the novel approaches taken may benefit other targeted therapies.

Abstract B87: Genomic complexity and BRAF/MEK-dependence in V600E BRAF mutant melanoma

Constitutive ERK activation, often the result of BRAF mutation, is a common finding in human cancer. BRAF mutations occur in approximately 8% of human tumors, with the highest frequency observed in melanoma (40–70%). Supporting its classification as an oncogene, V600E BRAF stimulates ERK signaling, induces proliferation and is capable in model systems of promoting transformation. BRAF mutations are, however, common in nevi suggesting that BRAF mutation alone is insufficient for tumorigenesis. These observations suggest that additional alterations cooperate with BRAF in promoting melanoma formation and that inhibition of oncogenic BRAF may not be sufficient in many tumors to induce apoptosis in some BRAF mutant melanomas. Prior studies have demonstrated that loss of PTEN is a common event in melanoma and PTEN has been shown to cooperate with BRAF mutation in accelerating invasive melanoma formation in genetic murine models. With the goal of identifying model systems in which to study the the role played by PTEN in promoting tumorigenesis, we performed MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry genotyping on a panel of 116 melanoma cell lines. Seventy-two (62%) harbored BRAF mutations (66 V600E, 3 V600K, 3 in exon 11). Proteomic profiling of the class of V600E BRAF mutant cell lines demonstrated significant variability in the expression of PTEN and pAKT. Nine cells lines harboring V600E BRAF mutations were found to express no PTEN protein and high pAKT by immunoblotting. The majority of these cell lines had small (1–2) base-pair insertions and deletions leading to a frame shift and early truncation. Array CGH confirmed focal homozygous deletion of the PTEN gene in three of the models. These deletions were small and in one case detected by the Agilent 1M but not the 244K platform. We have previously reported that mutations of BRAF are associated with enhanced and selective sensitivity to MEK inhibition when compared to either receptor tyrosine kinase-driven cells or cells harboring a RAS mutation. To determine the MAPK pathway dependence of V600E BRAF mutant cell lines as a function of PTEN expression, we used PD0325901, a selective allosteric inhibitor of MEK1/2. A subset of the V600E BRAF mutant, PTEN null or mutant cells were dependent upon MEK for proliferation with IC50 values ranging from 1.1 to &gt;500nM. These data suggest that PTEN loss is insufficient to confer absolute resistance to MAPK-pathway inhibition. MEK inhibition was, however, cytostatic in all V600E BRAF, PTEN null cell lines whereas MEK inhibition induced significant apoptosis in a subset of V600E BRAF, PTEN wild-type models. PTEN null, BRAF mutant cell lines were sensitive to two selective PI3 kinase inhibitors and the combination of MEK and PI3 kinase inhibition was more effective than either alone in a subset of models. In summary, our data suggest that PTEN is one of several concurrent genetic/epigenetic alterations that condition MEK-dependence in melanoma cell lines harboring V600E BRAF mutations. Given the promising preliminary data with BRAF and MEK selective inhibitors in early stage clinical trials, these data may aid in the identification of those patients most likely to benefit from selective inhibitors of the MAPK pathway.

Citation Information: Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(12 Suppl):B87.

[Induction of rat hepatic cytochrome P-450 3A by zolmitriptan mediated with pregnane X receptor]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether pregnane X receptor (PXR) is involved in the induction of rat hepatic cytochrome P450 3A1/2 by zolmitriptan.

METHODS

The induction effects of zolmitriptan were investigated in three concentrations (100 micromol L(-1)), 50 micromolL(-1)) and 10 micromol L(-1))) using luciferase report gene method based on PXR. Pregnenolone-16 alpha-carbonitrile (PCN) was used as the positive control and the solvent DMSO as the negative control.

RESULT

Compared with the negative groups, the positive and high level zolmitriptan groups exhibited a significant induction effect on CYP 3A1, the activity increased to 1.93 and 1.96 times, respectively (P<0.05). The positive, middle level and low level zolmitriptan groups exhibited a significant induction effect on CYP 3A2, the activity increase to 2.51, 2.10 and 1.63 times, respectively (P<0.01, <0.05 ).

CONCLUSION

Zolmitriptan can significantly induce CYP 3A2 in low and middle concentrations and induce CYP 3A1 in high concentration.PXR is involved in the induction of CYP 3A1/2 by zolmitriptan.

Single-crystal AlN nanonecklaces

Distinct single-crystal aluminum nitride nanonecklaces with uniform [1011] faceted beads are synthesized via catalyst-assisted nitriding of Al. The detailed morphology and structure of the nanonecklaces have been characterized. The growth process has been investigated by comparing the products obtained at different synthesis times. The results reveal that the formation of the nanonecklaces is via a process consisting of facet formation and bead unification. The formation of the [1011] facets is due to the presence of a liquid phase that lowers the surface tension of otherwise high-energy [1011] planes. The bead unification is driven by minimizing the energy contributed by surface energy and electrostatic energy. The unique morphology of the nanonecklaces could be useful for studying fundamental physical phenomena and fabricating nanodevices.

Production of cloned miniature pigs by enucleation using the spindle view system

Porcine somatic cell nuclear transfer (NT) has been successfully performed, but its efficiency remains quite low. In this study, we improvised on the enucleation method to enhance the development of NT embryos. Initially, an experiment was performed to determine the location relationship between the metaphase plate and the first polar body, where the results showed that the metaphase plate may frequently be displaced during the varying period of maturation process. When the metaphase plates were removed using the 'blind' enucleation method, the enucleation rate was affected by the maturation time; however, when the spindle view system was used, an enucleation rate of 100% was achieved. In the next experiment, these two methods were used to construct embryos: the fusion efficiency was significantly higher (p < 0.01) in the spindle view system group and the development rates of the reconstructed embryos were significantly higher in the spindle view system group compared with the 'blind' enucleation group (p < 0.01). An average of 174 (141-210) cloned embryos from the spindle view system group were transferred into five surrogate pigs and one piglet was delivered at 114 days after embryo transfer by caesarean section. DNA analysis confirmed that the piglet was genetically identical to the male donor pig. We showed that enucleation by the spindle view system is the another new technique compare the handmade cloning method [Theriogenology 2007: 68, 1104] to promote the development of the reconstructed embryos, and that a full-term cloned pig could be produced using this method.

Some issues in facial transplantation

Human facial transplantation, a form of composite tissue allotransplantation, has now become a clinical reality. We carried out the world's second partial facial transplantation in April 2006. We reviewed some issues associated with facial transplantation, especially focusing on the individual who underwent the transplant in our department. We discussed surgical indications, techniques, risks versus benefits, informed consent and psychosocial, societal and financial issues of facial transplantation. In our opinion, with the progresses in composite tissue allotransplantation, partial or full facial transplantation is becoming a timely and effective remedy for the significantly disfigured patients. However, there are a lot of problems unsolved, and as we have performed the transplant on only three individuals, no long-term outcome data are available. Facial transplantation needs further research.

[Association of polymorphisms of exon 2 of GOLA-DQB1 gene with immune traits in goats]

PCR-RFLP was used to analyze the polymorphisms of exon 2 of GOLA-DQB1 gene in Laiwu black goats, Lubo goats, and Boer goats. The effects of genotypes of exon 2 of GOLA-DQB1 gene on immune traits were estimated. Seven genotypes (AA, BB, CC, AB, AC, BC, and DD) were detected by analyzing restriction maps. Polymorphic sites were detected at base position 24, 151 of exon 2 of GOLA-DQB1 gene. The results showed that the effects of breed were major effect. W-SCR in Laiwu black goats with genotype BC was significantly higher than that with genotype AC and CC (P<0.05), W-LCR in Laiwu black goats with genotype BC was significantly lower than that with genotype CC (P<0.05); W-LCC in Laiwu black goats with genotype BC was lower than that with genotype AC, CC (P>0.05). W-LCC in Boer goats with genotype BC was lower than that with genotype AA, AB, and BB (P>0.05); W-LCC in Lubo goats with genotype BC and AC was significantly lower than that with genotype AA (P<0.05). It was concluded from the results that GOLA-DQB1 was the gene affecting the immune traits. These results may be applied to marker assisted selection in disease resistance breeding of goats.

The specificities of four yeast dihydrouridine synthases for cytoplasmic tRNAs

Dihydrouridine is a highly abundant modified nucleoside found widely in tRNAs of eubacteria, eukaryotes, and some archaea. In cytoplasmic tRNA of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, dihydrouridine occurs exclusively at positions 16, 17, 20, 20A, 20B, and 47. Here we show that the known dihydrouridine synthases Dus1p and Dus2p and two previously uncharacterized homologs, Dus3p (encoded by YLR401c) and Dus4p (YLR405w), are required for all of the dihydrouridine modification of cytoplasmic tRNAs in S. cerevisiae. We have mapped the in vivo position specificity of the four Dus proteins, by three complementary approaches: determination of the molar ratio of dihydrouridine in purified tRNAs from different dus mutants; microarray analysis of a large number of tRNAs based on differential hybridization of uridine and dihydrouridine-containing tRNAs to the complementary oligonucleotides; and the development and use of a novel dihydrouridine mapping technique, employing primer extension. We show that each of the four Dus proteins has a distinct position specificity: Dus1p for U(16) and U(17), Dus2p for U(20), Dus3p for U(47), and Dus4p for U(20a) and U(20b).

Activation of phosphorylating-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and its relationship with localization of intestinal stem cells in rats after ischemia-reperfusion injury

AIM: To investigate the expression of phosphorylating p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in rat small intestine after ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) insult and its relationship with the localization of intestinal stem cells.

METHODS: Forty-eight Wistar rats were divided randomly into three groups, namely intestinal ischemia-reperfusion group (R), intestinal ischemia group (I) and sham-operated control group (C). In group I, the animals were killed 45 minutes after superior mesenteric artery (SMA) occlusion, while in group R the rats sustained SMA occlusion for 45 minutes and reperfusion for 2, 6, 12 or 24 h respectively. In sham-operated control group, SMA was separated, but without occlusion. The activity of plasma diamine oxidase (DAO) was determined. Intestinal tissue samples were also taken for histological analysis and immunohistochemical analysis of MAPK p38 detection and intestinal stem cell localization.

RESULTS: The changes in histological structure and plasma DAO levels indicated that the intestinal barrier was damaged after intestinal I/R injury. In group C and I, each crypt contained 5-6 p38 MAPK positive cells, which were mainly located in the lower region of the crypts. This was consistent with the distribution of intestinal stem cells. The presence of positive cells in crypts increased with the time of reperfusion and reached its peak at 12 h after reperfusion (35.6%).

CONCLUSION: After intestinal I/R injury, the expression of phosphorylating-p38 MAPK in small intestine increased with the duration of reperfusion, and its distribution coincided with that of intestinal stem cells and their daughter cells, indicating that phosphorylating-p38 might be a possible marker of intestinal stem cells.

Structurally distinct membrane-associated and soluble forms of GH-binding protein in the mouse

It has previously been shown that the large increase in GH-binding capacity of mouse liver microsomes during pregnancy is due largely to an increase in the amount of GH-binding protein (GHBP), with a more modest increase in GH receptor (GHR). Here we show that mouse liver GHBP is predominantly present as a membrane-associated protein structurally distinct from the soluble form of GHBP present in serum. Liver GHBP is associated with both intracellular membranes and the plasma membrane. Membrane-associated GHBP and soluble GHBP appear to be identical polypeptides distinguished by the addition of different N-glycans to asparagine residues. The pattern of release of GHBP from membranes by various treatments indicates that GHBP associates with membranes through noncovalent interactions with one or more membrane protein, but not with GHR. Covalent crosslinking provides evidence for several GHBP-associated membrane polypeptides, with molecular masses ranging from 58 kDa to over 200 kDa. These studies in the mouse and similar studies in the rat suggest that GHBP is an important cell-surface receptor for GH in the liver of these species. We postulate that an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid sequence found on rat and mouse GHBP but absent in other species is responsible for the association of GHBP with the plasma membrane by binding to one or more integrins on the surface of liver cells.

[The species and the distribution of officinal nettles in Sichuan Province]

OBJECTIVE

To study the resource of officinal nettles in Sichuan.

METHODS

Investigating at the wild spots and consulting the relating specimens.

RESULTS

It has been found that there are 11 spieces and subspieces of genus Urtica in Sichuan Province, of which 8 nettles are commonly used for treatment of rheumatism.

CONCLUSION

This paper can provide scientific reference for further study of officinal nettles in Sichuan.

[Function of vascular endothelial growth factor in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the function of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and other clinical indexes to forcast ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

METHOD

Collecting the serum and follicular fluid (FF) of 42 cases in the in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycles and then analysis the relationship of the clinical and detected indexes between the OHSS (10 cases) and the non-OHSS (32 cases).

RESULTS

The concentration of VEGF in FF, E2 on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injection, basal luteinizing hormone (LH) and the number of ovum retried much higher in the OHSS than in the non-OHSS.

CONCLUSIONS

The concentration of VEGF in FF of OHSS cases is higher than that of controls, supporting the role of VEGF as a mediator of OHSS. Therefore VEGF in FF is a forcast index of OHSS.

[Effects of leptin on estradiol and progesterone production by human luteinized granulosa cells in vitro]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of leptin on steroidogenesis of human luteinized granulosa cell in vitro.

METHODS

Human luteinized granulosa cells were isolated from follicular fluid obtained during oocyte retrieval of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer program and were cultured with M199 medium plus various concentration of leptin (0, 10, 30, 100, 300 ng/ml), human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG, 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10 IU/ml) and testosterone 100 micrograms/ml. For 2 days the media were collected for estradiol and progesterone measurements.

RESULTS

Addition of leptin alone did not alter estradiol and progesterone production (P > 0.05) by human luteinized granulosa cells. Leptin of 10-30 ng/ml concentrations caused a dose-dependent inhibition of estradiol production (P < 0.05) while greater than 0.5 IU/ml of hMG were added. There was no effect of leptin on hMG-stimulated progesterone production (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Leptin can directly inhibit hMG-stimulated estradiol production by human luteinized granulosa cells in vitro, but has no effect on progesterone production. Leptin may play an important role in follicle development and luteinization.

[Correction of polypronuclear zygotes in 31 cases by micromanipulation]

OBJECTIVE

To study the development of polypronuclear zygotes corrected by micromanipulation.

METHODS

Thirty one cases of polypronuclear zygotes were corrected during September to December of 1999 through micromanipulation to remove supernumerary pronucleus from polypronuclear zygotes at 37 degrees C and observing their development 24 and 48 hours later to compare with the normal pre-embryos.

RESULTS

17 in 31 (55%) cases of corrected polypronuclear zygotes developed to 2 to 4-cell pre-embryoes 24 hours later. There was significant difference while compare with the normal zygotes. However 48 hours later the cleavage rate of the two group of preembryos was the similar.

CONCLUSION

The correction of polypronuclear zygotes by micromanipulation may in some way cause damage to the cleavage ability in part of the zegotes, but the remaining can develope normally.

[Analysis of the relevant morphological characteristics observed in intracytoplasmic sperm injection]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the morphological characteristics of oocyte, sperm and blastomere-stage embryo and correlate with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) embryo score.

METHODS

ICSIs were done in M II oocytes harvested after superovulation with long-protocol gonadotropin releasing homone agonist. Various morphological characteristics of oocyte, sperm and blastomere-stage embryo were identified and correlated with the embryo score.

RESULTS

Forty-three ICSI cycles were completed. Twelve out of 31 male factor infertile couples and 2 out of 12 with fertilization failure during previous standard in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer cycles achieved clinical pregnancy, resulting in a pregnancy rate of 38.7% and 16.7% per transfer respectively. Severe teratospermia and abnormal cytoplasm of the oocytes, such as cytoplasmic central dark granulas, inclusions, had significantly low embryo score (P < 0.01). The size of perivitelline space had no influence on the result. The oocytes without oolemma elasticity during ICSI process had a lower oocyte survival rate compared with those with oolemma elasticity (P < 0.01). The clinical pregnancy rate per transfer between transferred embryo with average score higher and lower than 3 was significantly different (52% vs 10%, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Some morphological characteristics of gamates correlate with the embryo quality and clinical pregnancy rate. They can be used to assess and improve the clinical management during ICSI.

[Expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3 protein in the implantation window phase of endometrium]

OBJECTIVE

To study the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-3 (TIMP-3) protein in the implantation window phase of endometrium and the role of MMP-9 and TIMP-3 on embryo implantation.

METHOD

Immunohistochemical analysis was employed to demonstrate the population of the MMP-9 and TIMP-3 positive cell in endometrium of different phases of menstrual cycle.

RESULTS

The positive cells of these soluble proteinases were found to be located in the endometrial epithelial cells and stromal cells. The quantitative analysis of MMP-9 and TIMP-3 proteins demonstrated an increase in staining exent from proliferative endometrium to the endometrium of implatation window phase, and an decrease to late-secretory endometrium in comparison with the implantation window phase.

CONCLUSION

Expression of MMP-9 and TIMP-3 in the implantation window phases of endometrium is specific and may play an important role in regulating the depth of trophoblast invasion during embryo implantation and may be involved in endometrial stromal breakdown during menstruation.

[Expression of epidermal growth factor receptor in human preimplantation embroys]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in human preimplantation embryos and to explore the effect of EGFR on human embryos growth, development and implantation.

METHODS

To detect the localization and expression of EGFR in human preimplantation embryos with indirect immunofluorescence assays(IIF).

RESULTS

There was EGFR expression in human preimplantation embryos from unfertilized oocyts, 2-cell, 4-cell, 6-8 cell to 10-cell stages embryos. EGFR protein located on the cell membrance surface, and had no obvious variation in intensity of staining from whole stages embryos.

CONCLUSION

The expression of EGFR was present in human preimplantation embryos, heparin-binding EGF-like epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), one of the EGF superfamily members act through the EGFR, EGFR expression may have an important role in human embryos growth, development and implantation.

The protein kinase C beta-specific inhibitor LY379196 blocks TPA-induced monocytic differentiation of HL60 cells the protein kinase C beta-specific inhibitor LY379196 blocks TPA-induced monocytic differentiation of HL60 cells

The ability of the promyelocytic leukemia HL60 cell line to differentiate in response to various stimuli has provided a widely used model of differentiation. The phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA), acting via its cellular receptor protein kinase C(PKC), induces these cells to acquire a monocytic phenotype. We set out to identify the specific isoform of the multigene PKC family that is involved in this differentiation event. To do so, we utilized a highly specific PKCbeta inhibitor, LY379196. We found that LY379196 could prevent the growth arrest, cellular adherence, and changes in several marker proteins that occur after the addition of TPA to HL60 cells and that these effects were not simply due to nonspecific cytotoxicity. Thus, the present studies provide strong evidence that the beta isoform of PKC plays a critical role in TPA-induced HL60 monocytic differentiation.

[Apoptosis of cultured human trophoblasts induced by tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interferon-gamma]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the potential role of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in inducing apoptosis of human trophoblast during early pregnancy and its mechanism.

METHODS

Human trophoblast of early gestation were cultured in vitro. Having cultured with TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma for 36 hours, their cytotoxic activity was determined by viable cell calculation. Apoptotic morphology was observed under light and electronic microscope. DNA fragment pattern and apoptotic index were analysed by agarose gel electrophoresis and flow cytometer assay (FCM) respectively. Adherent cell analysis and sorting interactive laser cytometer was used to examine the changes of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) caused by TNF-alpha.

RESULTS

TNF-alpha alone significantly decreased the number of viable cells at the concentration of 1,000, 3,000 and 5,000 U/ml (P < 0.05). While combined with IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha decreased the number of viable cells more markedly. Electronic microscopic examination showed chromatin aggregating beneath the nuclear envelope, nuclear contraction and apoptotic bodies. Agarose gel electrophoresis of fragmented DNA showed a ladder-like pattern. FCM showed that the apoptotic index of trophoblasts was TNF-alpha concentration dependent. Cellular ROS was increased by TNF-alpha.

CONCLUSION

TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma could induce apoptosis of human trophoblasts during early pregnancy, partly through the mechanism of ROS.

[Application of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist for triggering ovulation in high risk gonadotropin stimulating cycles of infertile polycystic ovary syndrome patients]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH-a) instead of hCG for triggering ovulation in high risk gonadotropin stimulating cycles of infertile polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients.

METHODS

GnRH-a was given for triggering follicular final maturation and ovulation in 18 gonadotropin stimulating cycles of 14 PCOS patients with mean serum estradiol (E2) level of 8,379 +/- 2,958 pmol/L. Their outcomes and complications were analysed.

RESULTS

Ovulation achieved in 15 (83.3%) treated cycles, 4 (22.2%) became pregnant. Only 1 developed moderate ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and another 1 had multiple pregnancy.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of GnRH-a instead of hCG in high risk gonadotropin stimulating cycles is able to successfully induce ovulation and pregnancy and decrease the incidence of severe OHSS and multiple gestation.

[Tubal catheterization for transvaginal gamete intrafallopian transfer: an alternative technique for non-tubal infertility]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the outcome of transvaginal gamete intrafallopian transfer (TV-GIFT) for infertile patients with non-tubal factors.

METHODS

Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation was used for all patients. Transvaginal ultrasound-guided oocyte retrieval followed by tubal catheterization for transvaginal gamete intrafallopian transfer of 3.3 +/- 2.1 oocytes (range 1-8) and 200,000 sperms in 50 microliters culture medium.

RESULTS

The TV-GIFT was used in total of 23 treatment cycles. Of 23 cycles performed for TV-GIFT, the procedure was completed easily in 18 and difficult in 5, resulting in 5 clinical pregnancies(21.7% per cycle), 2 of which resulted in abortion, 2 ongoing pregnancy one was ectopic pregnancy. No pregnancy occurred in four cycles with only one oocyte transferred.

CONCLUSIONS

Simple and cost-effective TV-GIFT may achieve a higher pregnancy rate. Compared with laparoscopically directed GIFT, tubal catheterization for TV-GIFT is safe and less invasive. It is an alternative for non-tubal infertility before entering the IVF-ET program.

[The expression of integrin beta 3 in cycling and early pregnant endometrium and its relationship with primary unexplained infertility]

OBJECTIVES

To profile the changes in integrin beta 3 expression in cycling and early pregnant endometrium and its relationship with unexplained infertility.

METHOD

Expression of integrin beta 3 on endometrium was detected in 56 normal cycling women during different menstrual phases or early pregnant women, and 9 cases with unexplained infertility during mid-luteal phase by immunohistochemistry technique.

RESULTS

Integrin beta 3 was expressed only in the midluteal or pregnant endometrium(after cycle day 19). Compared with normal women, integrin beta 3 failed to express in the midluteal endometrium from women with unexplained infertility.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest integrin beta 3 may play important roles in the process of implantation and decidualization. It might be a new reliable marker of uterine receptivity. Abnormal endometrial integrin beta 3 expression might be the major cause of unexplained infertility.

[Distribution of leucine-enkephalin like immunoreactive nerve fibers in feline temporomandibular joint: an immunohistochemical PAP method]

In this paper, the immunohistochemical PAP method has been used for the investigation of the distribution of leucine-enkephalin (L-ENK) like immunoreactive fibers in feline temporomandibular joint (TMJ). The results demonstrated as follows: the TMJ capsule, anterior and posterior disc attachments all contained L-ENK immunoreactive nerve fibers which appeared largely as the fine plexi fibers. The density of the distribution of L-ENK positive nerve fibers was the highest in the subsynovium of TMJ capsule, and the plexi structures proceeding to the synovial membrane were observed. The density of the distribution in the lateral joint capsule was the same as the density of distribution in the anterior and posterior discs attachments. No L-ENK positive fibers were detected in the central portion of joint disc. These results indicate that there is the material basis of endogenous analgesic mechanism in TMJ and provide the neuroanatomical basis for exploring physiological functions such as analgesic, immunological and anti-inflammatory effects of ENK nerve fibers in TMJ.