Protective effects against and potential mechanisms underlying the effect of magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate in hypoxia-reoxygenation injury in rat liver cells

We examined the protective effects of magnesium isoglycyrrhizinate (MgIG) on hypoxia-reoxygenation injury in rat liver cells. Rat liver cells in the logarithmic growth phase were divided into the hypoxia-reoxygenation injury model group and MgIG pretreatment group (0.01, 0.1, 1, 10, 100 mg/mL). After 24-h pretreatment, we detected the effects of MgIG on liver cell viability using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) assay at 6-h hypoxia and 4-h reoxygenation. After 24-h pretreatment, liver cells were randomly divided into the hypoxia-reoxygenation injury model group and low-, moderate-, and high-MgIG-concentration groups (0.1, 1, 10 mg/mL, respectively), and hypoxia and reoxygenation were simulated for 6 and 4 h, respectively. Cell morphology was observed by light microscopy. Nuclear factor-kB gene expression was analyzed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. MTT results showed that MgIG (0.1, 1, 10 mg/mL) improved the A-value of anoxia-reoxygenation injury in liver cells (P < 0.01) compared with that of the model group. Cells did not survive when the MgIG concentration was 100 mg/mL. At an MgIG concentration lower than 0.01 mg/mL, the A-value of the MTT group was higher than that of the model group (P > 0.05). Nuclear factor-kB mRNA expression (0.597 ± 0.062, 0.248 ± 0.067, 0.141 ± 0.029) in the low-, moderate-, and high-concentration groups was lower than that in the model group (P < 0.01). MgIG reduced hypoxia-reoxygenation injury of liver cells, indicating that it improved hepatic cell activity, inhibited lipid peroxidation and inflammatory reactions, and decreased nuclear factor-kB mRNA expression.

The effect of electrical stimulation on post mortem myofibrillar protein degradation and small heat shock protein kinetics in bull beef

This study aimed to determine the effect of electrical stimulation and ultimate pH (pHu) on shear force, myofibrillar protein degradation and small heat shock protein (sHSP) concentrations in M. longissimus lumborum (LL). The LL from both sides of carcasses (n=15) was excised with low voltage electrical stimulation (ES) applied to an LL muscle from one side, while the opposing LL muscle was not stimulated (NS). Muscles were categorised into low (pHu<5.8), intermediate (5.8≤pHu<6.2) and high pHu (pHu≥6.2) and aged for up to 28days post mortem at -1.5°C. High pHu meat tenderised faster which corresponded with the faster degradation of titin and desmin in this group compared with low and intermediate pHu meat. Electrical stimulation significantly affected the variable levels of αβ-crystallin and HSP20 with higher concentrations of these sHSP in ES muscles at later ageing timepoints compared with NS muscles.

First-line erlotinib versus gemcitabine/cisplatin in patients with advanced EGFR mutation-positive non-small-cell lung cancer: analyses from the phase III, randomized, open-label, ENSURE study

BACKGROUND

The phase III, randomized, open-label ENSURE study (NCT01342965) evaluated first-line erlotinib versus gemcitabine/cisplatin (GP) in patients from China, Malaysia and the Philippines with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients ≥18 years old with histologically/cytologically confirmed stage IIIB/IV EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0-2 were randomized 1:1 to receive erlotinib (oral; 150 mg once daily until progression/unacceptable toxicity) or GP [G 1250 mg/m(2) i.v. days 1 and 8 (3-weekly cycle); P 75 mg/m(2) i.v. day 1, (3-weekly cycle) for up to four cycles]. Primary end point: investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS). Other end points include objective response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS), and safety.

RESULTS

A total of 217 patients were randomized: 110 to erlotinib and 107 to GP. Investigator-assessed median PFS was 11.0 months versus 5.5 months, erlotinib versus GP, respectively [hazard ratio (HR), 0.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.22-0.51; log-rank P < 0.0001]. Independent Review Committee-assessed median PFS was consistent (HR, 0.42). Median OS was 26.3 versus 25.5 months, erlotinib versus GP, respectively (HR, 0.91, 95% CI 0.63-1.31; log-rank P = .607). ORR was 62.7% for erlotinib and 33.6% for GP. Treatment-related serious adverse events (AEs) occurred in 2.7% versus 10.6% of erlotinib and GP patients, respectively. The most common grade ≥3 AEs were rash (6.4%) with erlotinib, and neutropenia (25.0%), leukopenia (14.4%), and anemia (12.5%) with GP.

CONCLUSION

These analyses demonstrate that first-line erlotinib provides a statistically significant improvement in PFS versus GP in Asian patients with EGFR mutation-positive NSCLC (NCT01342965).

Azadircta indica as a modulator of membrane stability parameters and surface changes during 1,2 dimethylhydrazine-induced colorectal carcinogenesis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to study the modulatory potential of Azadirta indica on colonic surface abnormalities and membrane fluidity changes following 1,2 dimethylhydrazine-induced [DMH] colon carcinogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Brush border membranes [BBM] were isolated from the colon of rats and the viscosity as well as fluidity parameters were assessed by using the membrane extrinsic fluorophore pyrene.

RESULTS

DMH treatment resulted in a significant increase in lipid peroxidation [LPO]. Reduced glutathione levels [GSH] and the activities of glutathione reductase [GR], glutathione transferase [GST], superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase [CAT] and glutathione peroxidase [GPx] were found to be significantly decreased following DMH treatment. On the other hand, supplementation with AI, DMH-treated rats resulted in a significant decrease in the levels of lipid peroxidation but caused a significant increase in the levels of GSH as well in the activities of GR, GST, SOD, CAT and GPx. The results further demonstrated a marked decrease in membrane microviscosity following DMH treatment. On the other hand, a significant increase was observed in the excimer/monomer ratio and fluidity parameter of DMH-treated rats when compared to normal control rats. However, the alterations in membrane microviscosity and the fluidity parameters were significantly restored following A. indica treatment. Further, histological as well as colon surface alterations were also observed following DMH treatment, which however were greatly prevented upon AI co-administration.

CONCLUSIONS

The study, therefore, concludes that A. indica proves to be useful in modulating the colonic surface abnormalities and membrane stability following DMH-induced colon carcinogenesis.

White Matter Development is Potentially Influenced in Adolescents with Vertically Transmitted HIV Infections: A Tract-Based Spatial Statistics Study

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Convergent evidence indicates that HIV is associated with abnormal WM microstructure in adults. However, little is known about whether HIV affects WM development in adolescents. In this study, we used DTI to investigate the integrity of WM microstructure in adolescents with vertically transmitted HIV infections.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifteen HIV-positive adolescents with vertically transmitted infections and 26 HIV-negative controls participated in this study. Whole-brain analysis of fractional anisotropy was performed by Tract-Based Spatial Statistics to localize abnormal WM regions between groups. VOI analysis was further performed to explore the changes in diffusivity indices in the regions with fractional anisotropy alterations. Correlation analyses were used to assess the relationship between fractional anisotropy alterations and clinical measures within the HIV-positive group.

RESULTS

Relative to HIV-negative controls, HIV-positive adolescents demonstrated significantly reduced fractional anisotropy in the corpus callosum, superior and posterior corona radiata, frontal and parietal WM, pre-/postcentral gyrus, and superior longitudinal fasciculus. In the affected regions, fractional anisotropy reductions were caused by an increase in radial diffusivity, and no changes were observed in axial diffusivity. Moreover, fractional anisotropy values in the bilateral frontal WM were negatively correlated with the duration of highly active antiretroviral therapy and were positively associated with the age at onset of highly active antiretroviral therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that early HIV infections may affect WM development, especially in the frontal WM, corpus callosum, and corona radiata in adolescents, which may be associated with hypomyelination and demyelination. Moreover, WM integrity may serve as a potential new treatment target.

Stationary intraoral digital tomosynthesis using a carbon nanotube X-ray source array

OBJECTIVES

Intraoral dental tomosynthesis and closely related tuned-aperture CT (TACT) are low-dose three-dimensional (3D) imaging modalities that have shown improved detection of multiple dental diseases. Clinical interest in implementing these technologies waned owing to their time-consuming nature. Recently developed carbon nanotube (CNT) X-ray sources allow rapid multi-image acquisition without mechanical motion, making tomosynthesis a clinically viable technique. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the feasibility of and produce high-quality images from a digital tomosynthesis system employing CNT X-ray technology.

METHODS

A test-bed stationary intraoral tomosynthesis unit was constructed using a CNT X-ray source array and a digital intraoral sensor. The source-to-image distance was modified to make the system comparable in image resolution to current two-dimensional intraoral radiography imaging systems. Anthropomorphic phantoms containing teeth with simulated and real caries lesions were imaged using a dose comparable to D-speed film dose with a rectangular collimation. Images were reconstructed and analysed.

RESULTS

Tomosynthesis images of the phantom and teeth specimen demonstrated perceived image quality equivalent or superior to standard digital images with the added benefit of 3D information. The ability to "scroll" through slices in a buccal-lingual direction significantly improved visualization of anatomical details. In addition, the subjective visibility of dental caries was increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Feasibility of the stationary intraoral tomosynthesis is demonstrated. The results show clinical promise and suitability for more robust observer and clinical studies.

Antimicrobial and disinfectant resistance of Escherichia coli isolated from giant pandas

AIMS

The study aims to demonstrate the antimicrobial and disinfectant resistance phenotypes and genotypes of Escherichia coli isolates obtained from giant pandas (Ailuropoda melanoleuca).

METHODS AND RESULTS

Antimicrobial testing was performed according to the standard disk diffusion method. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of disinfectants were determined using the agar dilution method. All isolates were screened for the presence of antimicrobial and disinfectant resistance genes and further analysed for genetic relatedness by pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Results showed that 46·6% of the isolates were resistant to at least one antimicrobial. Escherichia coli isolates showed resistance to fewer antimicrobials as panda age increased. Among antimicrobial-resistant E. coli isolates, the antimicrobial resistance genes blaCTX-M (88·2%) and sul1 (92·3%) were most prevalent. The disinfectant resistance genes emrE, ydgE/ydgF, mdfA and sugE(c) were commonly present (68·2-98·9%), whereas qac and sugE(p) were relatively less prevalent (0-21·3%). The frequencies of resistance genes tended to be higher in E. coli isolated in December than in July, and PFGE profiles were also more diverse in isolates in December. The qacEΔ1 and sugE(p) genes were higher in adolescent pandas than in any other age groups. PFGE revealed that antimicrobial resistance correlated well with sampling time and habitat.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that antimicrobial and disinfectant resistance was common in giant panda-derived E. coli, and the antimicrobial resistance was associated with sampling time and habitat. Escherichia coli could serve as a critical vector in spreading disinfectant and antimicrobial resistance.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

This is the first study that demonstrated the phenotypic and genetic characterizations of antimicrobial and disinfectant resistance in E. coli isolates from more than 60 giant pandas. Frequent transfer of pandas to other cages may lead to the dissemination of antimicrobial resistance. The study highlights the need for regularly monitoring the antimicrobial and disinfectant resistance in bacteria from giant pandas.

A transfection method of PS-asODNs targeting ANGPTL4 in multicellular structures of hepatocarcinoma cell line

To find an efficient transfection method for metastatic cancer cells, we established a three-dimensional (3D) growth model for solid tumor cells to mimic the metastatic cancer cells in the vascular system and compared the efficiency of several transfection methods in vitro. We found that it was optimal to transfect two-dimensional cells in vitro and detach them for 3D growth 6 h later. The transfection efficiency of this method was high, and the results were reliable. This method can be used to deliver several types of small molecules into the 3D metastatic cell model. Using this method, we increased our understanding of why drugs that are effective in vitro cannot treat the disease in vivo. If this phenomenon occurs due to the resistance of the cells to the drug, other treatment agents for the disease must be identified. However, if this occurs because the agent cannot reach the cells inside the 3D aggregate, we can improve the delivery efficiency by using methods that target the agent to all cells. Briefly, the method introduced in this study will contribute to future research focusing on the 3D metastatic cell model as well as on drug development for various solid tumors.

[Modified arthroscopic Latarjet procedure for the treatment of anterior shoulder instability]

OBJECTIVE

To present the surgical technique and to evaluate the results of the modified arthroscopic Latarjet procedure.

METHODS

Arthroscopic Latarjet procedure has proven to be a reliable method of treatment for difficult anteroinferior instability of the shoulder joint. However, there is no anterior capsule reattachment and too much subscapularis damage for the classic procedure. From February 2013, we modified the classic procedure with reattachment of anterior joint capsule and muscle-tendon junction splitting of subscapularis. Coracoid graft position was evaluated using CT scanning.

RESULTS

From March 2012 to August 2014, 51 modified Latarjet procedures were successfully performed arthroscopically for patients with anterior shoulder instability. According to the CT scanning at the final follow up, the graft was flush with the glenoid in 94.1%, and medially placed in 5.9%. Vertical positioning was perfect in 96.0% (2 to 5 o'clock), too high in 2.0%, and too low in 2.0%. There were no cases of recurrent dislocation or subluxation.

CONCLUSION

The modified arthroscopic Latarjet procedure has shown satisfactory results with good graft positioning. It is a minimal invasive and accurate approach, which combines the advantages of the open procedure.

The matricellular protein CCN1 regulates TNF-α induced vascular endothelial cell apoptosis

Due to the epidemic obesity and associated diabetes, the incidence of atherosclerosis is increasing worldwide. Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries with plaques that consist of inflammatory cells, dead endothelial cells, lipids, and often hyper proliferated vascular smooth muscle cells. During the development of atherosclerosis, vascular endothelial cell (EC) apoptosis induced by the adipokine tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), is an early event in the plaque formation. However, TNF-α alone is not sufficient to induce apoptosis of endothelial cells. Recent studies suggested that the matricellular protein CCN family member 1 (CCN1) involves in endothelial cell dysfunction besides its well-known angiogenic function during tissue repair by promoting vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation and migration. Herein, we explored the possibility and mechanism of CCN1 in TNF-α induced endothelial cells apoptosis. Both mRNA and protein levels of CCN1 are found up-regulated in endothelial cells after TNF-α treatment. In addition, overexpression of CCN1 promoted endothelial cell apoptosis in the presence of TNF-α. Furthermore, CCN1 directly up-regulated the expression of TNF-α-target genes, and this up-regulation required the activation of P53 and NF-κB both in vivo and in vitro. Taken together, CNN1 regulates TNF-α induced endothelial cells apoptosis that may underlie poor response to TNF-α therapy and hence may be a better therapeutic target for preventing vascular dysfunction in obesity.

Evidence for beta corticomuscular coherence during human standing balance: Effects of stance width, vision, and support surface

The role of the cerebral cortex in maintaining human standing balance remains unclear. Beta corticomuscular coherence (CMC) provides a measure of communication between the sensory-motor cortex and muscle, but past literature has not demonstrated significant beta CMC during human stance. This study evaluated the effects of stance width, vision, and surface compliance on beta CMC during human stance using methods to enhance sensitivity to CMC. Ten healthy, young adults stood for three 60-s trials in each of a wide or narrow stance width while on a firm surface and in narrow stance on a foam surface, each with eyes open or closed. Beta CMC was calculated between contralateral electroencephalographic and electromyographic recordings. Electromyography was recorded from bilateral tibialis anterior and gastrocnemius lateralis muscles. CMC magnitude was defined as the average integrated area of coherence spectrum above a significance threshold. Measures of center-of-pressure (COP) sway were derived from force plates under the subjects' feet. Results of CMC from four muscles across six stance conditions (a total of 24 combinations) demonstrated significant average CMC magnitude from every subject in 20 combinations and significant average CMC magnitude in nine of 10 subjects in the remaining four combinations. The CMC magnitude was significantly larger in the wide-stance condition than in the narrow-stance condition with eyes open. No significant differences were detected when comparing eyes-open to eyes-closed conditions or when comparing firm- to foam-surface conditions. Correlations between CMC magnitude and COP sway elicited some significant relationships, but there was no consistent direction or pattern of correlation based on muscle or stance condition. Results demonstrate that significant beta CMC is evident during human standing balance, and that beta CMC is responsive to changes in mechanical, but not visual or surface, conditions.

Heat shock protein 27 promotes cell proliferation through activator protein-1 in lung cancer

Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) is an important regulator involved in the development of lung cancer. However, limited evidence exists concerning the underlying molecular mechanisms of its action. The results of the present study revealed that HSP27 was highly expressed in the lung cancer tissues of mice. In an in vitro model, the overexpression of HSP27 promoted cell proliferation, while HSP27 knockdown inhibited cell proliferation. HSP27 promoted cell proliferation in vitro by directly upregulating the expression of HSP27 target genes, which required the activation of the activator protein-1 (AP-1) signaling pathway. This was evaluated by the phosphorylation status of an important pathway component, c-Jun in lung cancer tissue and cells. These results suggested that HSP27 has a promotional role in lung cancer, and therefore indicated a novel mechanism involving lung cancer cell proliferation, which may underlie poor responses to therapy. Therefore, HSP27 may be a suitable therapeutic target for the treatment of lung cancer.

Expression of IMP3 and IGF2 in giant cell tumor of spine is associated with tumor recurrence and angiogenesis

PURPOSE

Giant cell tumor (GCT) of bone is a vessel-rich and infiltrative tumor, but the fundamental knowledge of its biological behavior remains unknown now.

METHODS

In this study, we evaluated the expression levels of Insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 3 (IMP3), Insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) and CD105 in 38 patients with GCT of spine by Immunohistochemical staining. Additionally, we also analyzed their correlations with clinicopathological factors of giant cell tumor of spine.

RESULTS

The results showed that positive expression of IMP3 and IGF2 was tightly related to the tumor extension and local recurrence of GCT (P < 0.05), but it did not indicate any association with patients' age, gender, tumor location and size. The mean microvessel densities (MVDs) of IMP3 and IGF2 were significantly higher in positive group than negative group (P < 0.05). Moreover, a significant correlation was found between IMP3 and IGF2 expression (r = 0.355, P = 0.029). The log-rank test revealed that local recurrence-free survival time was significantly shorter in the IMP3 positive group (P = 0.004), and the difference in the IGF2 positive group and negative group was also statistically significant (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSION

IMP3 and IGF2 might be potential biomarkers for GCT of spine in regulating the angiogenesis of giant cell tumor of bone and predicting the patients' prognosis.

Association of the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome: a population-based case-control study and a systematic meta-analysis

Previous studies have reported associations between the functional FABP2 Ala54Thr (rs1799883) polymorphism and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, and metabolic syndrome in different populations with conflicting results. We investigated the association between the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism and T2DM (235 cases, 431 controls), obesity (377 cases, 431 controls), and metabolic syndrome (315 cases, 323 controls) by logistic regression analysis in a Chinese study cohort recruited from Yichang, Hubei Province. We then comprehensively reviewed the association of the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism with T2DM, obesity, and metabolic syndrome via meta-analysis. The strength of association was assessed by odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism was significantly associated with obesity (AT vs AA: OR = 2.633, 95%CI = 1.065-6.663, P = 0.036; TT vs AA: OR = 4.160, 95%CI = 1.609-10.757, P = 0.003) and metabolic syndrome (TT vs AA: OR = 2.273, 95%CI = 1.242-4.156, P = 0.008) by logistic regression with adjustment for covariates. However, no significant association was found between T2DM and the FABP2 Ala54Thr polymorphism. We identified 24 studies on T2DM (4517 cases, 5224 controls), 9 studies on obesity (949 cases, 2002 controls), and 6 studies on metabolic syndrome (2194 cases, 3282 controls) by literature search. The meta-analyses revealed significant associations for metabolic syndrome (T allele: OR = 1.179, 95%CI = 1.015-1.362, P = 0.031) and T2DM (T allele: OR = 1.160, 95%CI = 1.08-1.24, P < 0.001), but no association for obesity (T allele: OR = 1.069, 95%CI = 0.925-1.235, P = 0.367).

Comparison of the effects on glycaemic control and β-cell function in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes patients of treatment with exenatide, insulin or pioglitazone: a multicentre randomized parallel-group trial (the CONFIDENCE study)

OBJECTIVE

Progressive β-cell dysfunction hinders the maintenance of glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes, but comparative data on β-cell-protective therapies are lacking in the early stage of type 2 diabetes. Here we evaluated the comparative glycaemic efficacy and impact on β-cell function of three antihyperglycaemic agents that have a β-cell-protective effect, exenatide, insulin and pioglitazone, in newly diagnosed patients with type 2 diabetes.

DESIGN AND METHODS

In this 48-week, multicentre, parallel-group study, 416 patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were randomly assigned 1 : 1 : 1 to receive exenatide, insulin or pioglitazone. The primary end-point was the change in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) from baseline. Secondary end-points included effects on weight, blood pressure, lipid profiles and β-cell function assessed by homeostasis model assessment, fasting proinsulin:insulin (PI/I), disposition index (DI) and acute insulin response (AIR).

RESULTS

At week 48, mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] HbA1c changes from baseline were -1.8% (-1.55% to -2.05%) with exenatide, -1.7% (-1.52% to -1.96%) with insulin and -1.5% (-1.23% to -1.71%) with pioglitazone. Treatment differences were -0.20% (95% CI -0.46% to 0.06%) for exenatide versus insulin (P = 0.185), and -0.37% (95% CI -0.63% to -0.12%) for exenatide versus pioglitazone (P = 0.002). Significant improvements from baseline in AIR, PI/I and DI were observed with all treatments, with the greatest improvements in DI, as well as weight, blood pressure and lipid profile, observed with exenatide.

CONCLUSIONS

All three agents showed efficacy regarding glycaemic control and metabolic benefits; however, exenatide showed the greatest efficacy. β-cell function improved in all treatment groups; hence, early initiation of β-cell-protective therapy may halt the decline in β-cell function in type 2 diabetes.

Oral treatment with SEW2871, a sphingosine-1-phosphate type 1 receptor agonist, ameliorates experimental colitis in interleukin-10 gene deficient mice

SEW2871, a selective sphingosine-1-phosphate type 1 receptor (S1P1) agonist, has been shown to be effective in protecting kidneys against ischaemia-reperfusion injury by reducing CD4(+) T cell infiltration in mice. However, the effects of SEW2871 on colitis remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of SEW2871 on established colitis in interleukin (IL)-10 gene-deficient (IL-10(-/-)) mice, a murine model of Crohn's disease (CD). SEW2871 was administered by gavage at a dose of 20 mg/kg/day for 2 weeks to IL-10(-/-) mice. Severity of colitis, serum amyloid A, tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO), T cells in blood and colon lamina propria (LP) and proinflammatory cytokine productions were evaluated. Furthermore, the phospho-signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3 (p-STAT-3) expression in lymphocytes isolated from colon LP was also assessed. The 2-week administration of SEW2871 ameliorated established colitis in IL-10(-/-) mice, associated with a reduction of serum amyloid A concentration, a decreased colon MPO concentration, a depletion of the peripheral CD4(+) CD45(+) T cells and a reduction of the homing of T cells into colon LP. Moreover, typical cytokines of T helper type 1 (Th1) and Th17 cells and p-STAT-3 expression were also suppressed by SEW2871 treatment. SEW2871 treatment ameliorates established experimental colitis in IL-10(-/-) mice, which may provide a new therapeutic approach for human CD therapy.

Genetic tuning of the novel avian influenza A(H7N9) virus during interspecies transmission, China, 2013

A novel avian influenza A(H7N9) virus causing human infection emerged in February 2013 in China. To elucidate the mechanism of interspecies transmission, we compared the signature amino acids of avian influenza A(H7N9) viruses from human and non-human hosts and analysed the reassortants of 146 influenza A(H7N9) viruses with full genome sequences. We propose a genetic tuning procedure with continuous amino acid substitutions and reassorting that mediates host adaptation and interspecies transmission. When the early influenza A(H7N9) virus, containing ancestor haemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) genes similar to A/Shanghai/05 virus, circulated in waterfowl and transmitted to terrestrial poultry, it acquired an NA stalk deletion at amino acid positions 69 to 73. Then, receptor binding preference was tuned to increase the affinity to human-like receptors through HA G186V and Q226L mutations in terrestrial poultry. Additional mammalian adaptations such as PB2 E627K were selected in humans. The continual reassortation between H7N9 and H9N2 viruses resulted in multiple genotypes for further host adaptation. When we analysed a potential association of mutations and reassortants with clinical outcome, only the PB2 E627K mutation slightly increased the case fatality rate. Genetic tuning may create opportunities for further adaptation of influenza A(H7N9) and its potential to cause a pandemic.

Chromosomal location of blaCTX-M genes in clinical isolates of Escherichia coli from Germany, The Netherlands and the UK

This study aimed to detect and characterise clinical Escherichia coli isolates suspected of carrying chromosomally encoded CTX-M enzymes. Escherichia coli (n=356) obtained in Germany, The Netherlands and the UK (2005-2009) and resistant to third-generation cephalosporins were analysed for the presence of ESBL-/AmpC-encoding genes within the European SAFEFOODERA-ESBL project. β-Lactamases and their association with IS26 and ISEcp1 were investigated by PCR. Isolates were typed by phylogenetic grouping, MLST and PFGE. Plasmids were visualised by S1 nuclease PFGE, and the location of blaCTX-M genes was determined by Southern hybridisation of XbaI-, S1- and I-CeuI-digested DNA. ESBL enzymes could not be located on plasmids in 17/356 isolates (4.8%). These 17 isolates, from different countries and years, were ascribed to phylogenetic groups D (9), B2 (6) and B1 (2), and to seven sequence types, with ST38 being the most frequent (7 phylogroup D isolates). Eleven isolates produced CTX-M-15. blaCTX-M-15 genes were associated with ISEcp1. The remaining isolates expressed the CTX-M group 9 β-lactamases CTX-M-14 (4), CTX-M-9 (1) and CTX-M-51 (1). blaCTX-M probes hybridised with I-CeuI- and/or XbaI-digested DNA, but not with S1-digested DNA, corroborating their chromosomal location. To summarise, only 4.8% of a large collection of ESBL-producing E. coli isolates harboured chromosomal blaCTX-M genes. These isolates were of human origin and belonged predominantly to ST38 and ST131, which possibly indicates the role of these sequence types in this phenomenon. However, heterogeneity among isolates was found, suggesting that their spread is not only due to the dispersion of successful E. coli clones.

Novel small molecules disrupting Hec1/Nek2 interaction ablate tumor progression by triggering Nek2 degradation through a death-trap mechanism

Hec1 (highly expressed in cancer 1) or Nek2 (NIMA-related kinase 2) is often overexpressed in cancers with poor prognosis. Both are critical mitotic regulators, and phosphorylation of Hec1 S165 by Nek2 is required for proper chromosome segregation. Therefore, inactivation of Hec1 and Nek2 by targeting their interaction with small molecules represents an ideal strategy for tackling these types of cancers. Here we showed that new derivatives of INH (inhibitor for Nek2 and Hec1 binding) bind to Hec1 at amino acids 394-408 on W395, L399 and K400 residues, effectively blocking Hec1 phosphorylation on S165 by Nek2, and killing cancer cells at the nanomolar range. Mechanistically, the D-box (destruction-box) region of Nek2 specifically binds to Hec1 at amino acids 408-422, immediately adjacent to the INH binding motif. Subsequent binding of Nek2 to INH-bound Hec1 triggered proteasome-mediated Nek2 degradation, whereas the Hec1 binding defective Nek2 mutant, Nek2 R361L, resisted INH-induced Nek2 degradation. This finding unveils a novel drug-action mechanism where the binding of INHs to Hec1 forms a virtual death-trap to trigger Nek2 degradation and eventually cell death. Furthermore, analysis of the gene expression profiles of breast cancer patient samples revealed that co-elevated expressions of Hec1 and Nek2 correlated with the shortest survival. Treatment of mice with this kind of tumor with INHs significantly suppressed tumor growth without obvious toxicity. Taken together, the new INH derivatives are suitable for translation into clinical application.

Targeted mouse complement inhibitor CR2-Crry protects against the development of atherosclerosis in mice

OBJECTIVE

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory and immune vascular disease, and clinical and experimental evidence has indicated an important role of complement activation products, including the terminal membrane attack complex (MAC), in atherogenesis. Here, we investigated whether complement inhibition represents a potential therapeutic strategy to treat/prevent atherogenesis using CR2-Crry, a recently described complement inhibitor that specifically targets to sites of C3 activation.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Previous studies demonstrated that loss of CD59 (a membrane inhibitor of MAC formation) accelerated atherogenesis in Apoe deficient (Apoe(-/-)) mice. Here, both CD59 sufficient and CD59 deficient mice in an Apoe deficient background (namely, mCd59 ab(+/+)/Apoe(-/-) and mCd59 ab(-/-)/Apoe(-/-)) were treated with CR2-Crry for 4 and 2 months respectively, while maintained on a high fat diet. Compared to control treatment, CR2-Crry treatment resulted in significantly fewer atherosclerotic lesions in the aorta and aortic root, and inhibited the accelerated atherogenesis seen in mCd59 ab(+/+)/Apoe(-/-) and mCd59 ab(-/-)/Apoe(-/-) mice. CR2-Crry treatment also resulted in significantly reduced C3 and MAC deposition in the vasculature of both mice, as well as a significant reduction in the number of infiltrating macrophages and T cells.

CONCLUSION

The data demonstrate the therapeutic potential of targeted complement inhibition.

GOLPH3 is a novel marker of poor prognosis and a potential therapeutic target in human renal cell carcinoma

Background:

Golgi phosphoprotein 3 (GOLPH3) has been reported to be involved in the development of several human cancers. The present study was conducted to investigate the expression of GOLPH3 and its prognostic significance in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Meanwhile, the function of GOLPH3 in human RCC was further investigated in cell culture models.

Methods:

Expression of GOLPH3 was examined in 43 fresh RCC tissues and paired adjacent normal renal tissues by real-time quantitative PCR and western blotting. Immunohistochemistry for GOLPH3 was performed on additional 218 RCC tissues. The clinical significance of GOLPH3 expression was analysed. Downregulation of GOLPH3 was performed using small-interfering RNA (siRNA) in Caki-1 and 786-O cells with high abundance of GOLPH3, and the effects of GOLPH3 silencing on cell proliferation, migration, invasion in vitro, and tumour growth in vivo were evaluated.

Results:

Expression of GOLPH3 was upregulated in the majority of the RCC clinical tissue specimens at both mRNA and protein levels. Clinicopathological analysis showed that GOLPH3 expression was significantly correlated with T stage (P<0.001), lymph-node status (P=0.003), distant metastasis (P<0.001), tumour-node-metastasis (TNM) stage (P<0.001), and Fuhman grade (P=0.001). Expression of GOLPH3 was inversely correlated with both overall and recurrence-free survival of RCC patients. Multivariate analysis showed that GOLPH3 expression was an independent prognostic indicator for patient's survival. Knockdown of the GOLPH3 expression reduced cell proliferation, anchorage-independent growth, migration, invasion, and tumour growth in xenograft model mice.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that GOLPH3 expression is likely to have important roles in RCC development and progression, and that GOLPH3 is a prognostic biomarker and a promising therapeutic target for RCC.

Review of laboratory submissions from New World camelids in England and Wales (2000-2011)

Sample submissions to the Animal Health and Veterinary Laboratories Agency's (AHVLA's) diagnostic laboratory network in England and Wales were reviewed for diseases affecting New World camelids (NWCs). In the years 2000-2011, 6757 submissions were analysed, including 5154/6757 (76.3%) for diagnosing a disease problem and 1603/6757 (23.7%) for monitoring (no clinical disease). Wasting (weight loss, ill-thrift) was the most commonly reported clinical sign across all age groups. A diagnosis was reached for 1765/5154 (34.2%) diagnostic submissions. The proportion of submissions with diagnoses was higher for carcasses than non-carcass samples and multiple diagnoses were more likely to be reached from carcasses. Parasitic diseases were collectively the most common problem, including parasitic gastroenteritis (319/1765, 18.2%), coccidiosis (187/1765, 10.6%), fascioliasis (151/1765, 8.6%), ectoparasitic infestations (86/1765, 4.9%) and cryptosporidiosis (24/1765, 1.4%). The most frequently diagnosed non-parasitic problems included nutritional diseases (182/1765, 10.3%), septicaemia (104/1765, 5.9%, including 45 cases of colisepticaemia), gastric ulceration (79/1765, 4.5%), tumours/neoplastic diseases (65/1765, 3.7%), tuberculosis (57/1765, 3.2%), clostridial diseases (44/1765, 2.5%), congenital anomalies (41/1765, 2.3%), peritonitis (39/1765, 2.2%) and Johne's disease (20/1765, 1.1%).