[Evaluation of dynamic enhanced fast multiplanar spoiling gradient recalled(FMPSPGR) in the diagnosis of small hepatocellular carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the features of small hepotocellular carcinoma (SHCC) by spin echo (SE) sequence and dynamic enhanced FMPSPGR, and to compare the sensitivity for detecting and the accuracy for characterization, further to discuss the value of FMPSPGR in the diagnosis of SHCC.

METHODS

SE T(1)WI, T(2)WI and FMPSPGR dynamic imaging of the liver were performed for 58 patients with SHCC. The sensitivity for detecting and accuracy for characterization were statistically compared.

RESULTS

Seventy-two lesions were found in 58 patients. In the detection of SHCC, the order of the sensitivity was dynamic enhanced FMPSPGR>SE T(2)WI>no-enhanced FMPSPGR>SE T(1)WI. Dynamic enhanced FMPSPGR was significantly higher than any of the others. There was significant difference between no-enhanced FMPSPGR and SE T(2)WI, but not significant difference between T(2)WI and no-enhanced FMPSPGR. In the characterization of SHCC, the accuracy of pre- and post-contrast FMPSPGR was significantly higher than that of SE (T(1)WI+T(2)WI) with remarkable statistical difference.

CONCLUSIONS

FMPSPGR dynamic imaging is superior to SE in the detection and characterization of SHCC. The sensitivity for detecting and the accuracy for characterization will be improved when both FMPSPGR and SE are used.

Authentication of Chinese crude drug, Gecko, by allele-specific diagnostic PCR

Based on the sequences of the mitochondrial 12S rRNA gene fragment of 17 samples from Gekkonidae, Salamandridae, Agamidae and Hynobiidae, respectively, a pair of allele-specific primers was designed for differentiating the Chinese medicinal material Gecko from its adulterants by PCR. The results of amplification with the primers indicate that amplicons from the templates of Gekko gecko were clearly revealed by agarose gel electrophoresis, whereas no evident amplicons were found from other species. The primers were employed to identify crude drug samples from different sources. Among a total of 9 samples, 3 were diagnosed as genuine Gecko. This result is consistent with morphological identification and DNA sequence analyses.

[A study on the relations of soluble interleukin-2 receptor and CD+25 cell with acute graft-versus-host disease]

OBJECTIVE

Acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) is one of the major complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). Prediction of human aGVHD may be of help in its diagnosis and therapy.

METHODS

22 patients undergoing HSCT were included in this study. After transplantation, serum concentrations of interleukin-6, interleukin-8, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interferon-gamma and sIL-2R were measured periodically by using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Immune reconstitution of CD(+)(3), CD(+)(4), CD(+)(8), CD(+)(25) and CD(+)(69) cells were analyzed with flow cytometry.

RESULTS

All the patients achieved engraftment. 6 patients developed grade I GVHD and 4 patients developed grade III-IV GVHD. Patients with aGVHD demonstrated significantly higher sIL-2R levels than those without. The peak levels of grade III-IV GVHD were (420.3 +/- 59.8) U/L,and the peak levels of grade I GVHD were (221.5 +/- 38.8) U/L. The increase of sIL-2R level in serum preceded the clinical signs of aGVHD. The maximum levels of sIL-2R correlated significantly with the severity of aGVHD. The increase of CD(+)(25) cells was in accordance with that of sIL-2R.

CONCLUSIONS

Analysis of serum cytokines and immune reconstitution after HSCT may provide predictive value for aGVHD.

[Influence of scatter factor/hepatocyte growth factor on the growth and transmission of hepatocarcinoma SMMC 7721 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the influence of scatter factor/hepatocyte growth factor (SF/HGF) on the growth and transmission of hepatocarcinoma SMMC 7721 cells by SF/HGF cDNA transfection.

METHODS

Gene transfection was operated by lipofectin method. In vitro, SF/HGF and c-met expression was tested by ELISA and Western blot. Cell proliferation and motility were compared by growth curves and wound healing assays. In vivo, cells before and after transfection were implanted subcutaneously into nude mice respectively to observe tumor growth and metastasis.

RESULTS

After transfection, the expression of SF/HGF reached 694 pg/ml, compared with 0.26 pg/ml before transfection; however the expression of c-met protein did not change obviously. Growth curves showed that cells after transfection proliferated more rapidly than those before transfection and had an increased capability of motility together with enlarged morphological changes. In vivo experiment, tumors originated from SF/HGF(+) cells grew faster than those from SF/HGF(-) cells and had embolism formed inside and metastasis in the corresponding lung tissues, whereas no such findings in SF/HGF(-) cell originated tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

High expression of SF/HGF can stimulate tumor cell proliferation and metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatitis C virus IRES RNA-induced changes in the conformation of the 40s ribosomal subunit

Initiation of protein synthesis in eukaryotes requires recruitment of the 40S ribosomal subunit to the messenger RNA (mRNA). In most cases, this depends on recognition of a modified nucleotide cap on the 5' end of the mRNA. However, an alternate pathway uses a structured RNA element in the 5' untranslated region of the messenger or viral RNA called an internal ribosomal entry site (IRES). Here, we present a cryo-electron microscopy map of the hepatitis C virus (HCV) IRES bound to the 40S ribosomal subunit at about 20 A resolution. IRES binding induces a pronounced conformational change in the 40S subunit and closes the mRNA binding cleft, suggesting a mechanism for IRES-mediated positioning of mRNA in the ribosomal decoding center.

Mechanism of ribosome recruitment by hepatitis C IRES RNA

Many viruses and certain cellular mRNAs initiate protein synthesis from a highly structured RNA sequence in the 5' untranslated region, called the internal ribosome entry site (IRES). In hepatitis C virus (HCV), the IRES RNA functionally replaces several large initiation factor proteins by directly recruiting the 43S particle. Using quantitative binding assays, modification interference of binding, and chemical and enzymatic footprinting experiments, we show that three independently folded tertiary structural domains in the IRES RNA make intimate contacts to two purified components of the 43S particle: the 40S ribosomal subunit and eukaryotic initiation factor 3 (eIF3). We measure the affinity and demonstrate the specificity of these interactions for the first time and show that the high affinity interaction of IRES RNA with the 40S subunit drives formation of the IRES RNA-40S-eIF3 ternary complex. Thus, the HCV IRES RNA recruits 43S particles in a mode distinct from both eukaryotic cap-dependent and prokaryotic ribosome recruitment strategies, and is architecturally and functionally unique from other large folded RNAs that have been characterized to date.

Sequence variations of the hypervariable region of hepatitis C virus and their clinical significance

OBJECTIVE

To understand the clinical significance of sequence variations in the hypervariable region (HVR) of hepatitis C virus during infection.

METHODS

Eight patients with acute hepatitis C and 20 patients with chronic hepatitis C were followed up for two years. Blood samples were taken at intervals of six months for analysis of HCV-HVR sequences by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and direct sequencing methods.

RESULTS

HCV-HVR sequences of the 28 patients changed in various degrees. 92% of these nucleotide substitutions led to changes of corresponding aminoacid sequences. Only 8% of changed nucleotide were synonymous substitutions. Of 27 amino acids variation of amino acid ranged from 1 to 20 (mean 8, 30%). The most common nucleotide substitution (62%) occurred in the first position of codon, 31% in the second and the rest in the third. HVR variation rate was 0.89 x 10(-1) per genome site per year in acute hepatitis C, compared with 2.31 x 10(-1) per genome site per year in chronic hepatitis C (P < 0.05), but had no relation to HCV subtype. Variation of HVR in the flare up type (ALT > 150 mu/L) was much more than that in the quiescent type (ALT < 100 mu/L).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggested that sequence variation of HVR during HCV chronic infection seems to be an adaptive response to HCV to evade the host immune pressure and might play a major role in the establishment of persistent infection as well as in the flare-up of hepatitis.

Fas activation reduces neutrophil adhesion to endothelial cells

Polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMN) express apoptotic markers and lose effector functions including adhesion, chemotaxis, and phagocytosis when cultured overnight. Although the loss of function correlates with apoptosis, it is not clear if functions are lost before an early marker of apoptosis, the display of phosphatidylserine (PS), targets PMN for removal by phagocytic cells. To address this question, freshly isolated PMN were treated with Fas-activating antibodies to induce apoptosis rapidly. Early markers of apoptosis and PMA-stimulated adhesion to endothelial cells were measured. After 1 h of Fas exposure, only 16% PMN had externalized PS. In contrast, Fas activation reduced PMA-stimulated adhesion between 68 and 27% depending on PMA concentration. The loss of adhesion was accompanied by a reduction in beta2 integrin expression and receptor clustering. These results indicate that the Fas-induced loss of adhesion may precede PS externalization and could limit participation in the inflammatory response before PS externalization targets PMN for removal.

Authentication of an animal crude drug, Zaocys, by diagnostic PCR

A pair of diagnostic primers for distinguishing the Chinese crude drug Zaocys (Zaocys dhumandes) from its substitutes was designed based on the sequence data of the original animal of the drug and substitutes. Total DNAs were extracted from genuine crude drug and 5 of its substitutes, as well as from 12 species of original animal of the snake crude drug. Diagnostic PCRs were performed using the primers with these total DNAs as a template, annealing at 60-65 degrees C. Positive amplifications were obtained from all DNA templates of Zaocys, whereas negative amplifications were obtained from that of others. The results indicate that Zaocys samples could be definitely distinguished from its substitutes by diagnostic PCR, and no incorrect discrimination was found under the same reaction conditions. The advantages of the method in the authentication of crude drugs are also discussed in the present paper.

[Application of RAPD in the taxonomy of the genus Fritillaria]

OBJECTIVE

To provide the molecular data for the right application of the Chinese medicine "Beimu".

METHOD

Using the technology of RAPD, we studied the relationship among 12 samples of Beimu.

RESULT

The total genomic DNA of all the samples are about 21 Kb in size. Among 20 primers used, the five primers can reatedly generate a certain specified amplified band type, 27 bands were recored from all amplified products and 25 polymorphic fragments were found in it. The size of amplified fragments is between 450 bp and 1904 bp.

CONCLUSION

The similarity within species is higher than those between species. The relationship of Fritillaria anhuiensis and F. puqiensis is the farest, while F. thunbergii and F. puqiensis is the closest.

[Effects of synthetic peptides on ovarian cancer cells]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH) synthetic peptides(FSH binding Fragment), FSH and synthetic peptides on the proliferation of human epithelial ovarian cancer cell.

METHODS

Human epithelial ovarian cancer cells lines SKOV3, OVCAR, AO and 3AO were incubated with FSH, FSH binding fragment, FSH and the binding fragment respectively. The cell proliferation was detected by methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) technique.

RESULTS

The rate of proliferation in the cancer cell was increased apparently as increasing in the concentration of FSH and the rate of proliferation average value 28.0%, and was decreased apparently as increasing in the concentration of the synthetic peptides and the rate of inhibition average value 8.3%. When the cell was expressed in FSH, the proliferation was decreased apparently as increasing in the concentration of the peptides and the rate of inhibition average valve 3.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

It is suggested that FSH binding fragment can inhibit the proliferation of ovarian cancer cell. The FSH binding fragment could be used as a binding part of anticancerous complex for ovarian cancer.

The hepatitis C virus internal ribosome entry site adopts an ion-dependent tertiary fold

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) contains an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) located in the 5' untranslated region of the genomic RNA that drives cap-independent initiation of translation of the viral message. The approximate secondary structure and minimum functional length of the HCV IRES are known, and extensive mutagenesis has established that nearly all secondary structural domains are critical for activity. However, the presence of an IRES RNA tertiary fold and its functional relevance have not been established. Using chemical and enzymatic probes of the HCV IRES RNA in solution, we show that the IRES adopts a unique three-dimensional structure at physiological salt concentrations in the absence of additional cofactors or the translation apparatus. Folding of the IRES involves cooperative uptake of magnesium and is driven primarily by charge neutralization. This tertiary structure contains at least two independently folded regions which closely correspond to putative binding sites for the 40 S ribosomal subunit and initiation factor 3 (eIF3). Point mutations that inhibit IRES folding also inhibit its function, suggesting that the IRES tertiary structure is essential for translation initiation activity. Chemical and enzymatic probing data and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) experiments in solution show that upon folding, the IRES forms an extended structure in which functionally important loops are exposed. These results suggest that the 40 S ribosomal subunit and eIF3 bind an HCV IRES that is prefolded to spatially organize recognition domains.

[Evaluation of the arterial phase of biphase enhanced SCT in the diagnosis of small HCC]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the value of the arterial phase (AP) of biphase enhanced SCT in the diagnosis of small HCC and investigate the criteria, initial time, ending time and duration of AP.

METHODS

From May 1995 to March 1999, patients with small HCC proved by surgicopathology including 49 cases (N = 53) in the 1st group, 148 cases (N = 186) in the 2nd group and 52 cases (N = 52)n in the 3rd group were collected. Biphase dynamic enhanced SCT scans were performed in all patients of three groups and additional single-level dynamic scans only done in the 3rd group. The detectability, diagnostic accuracy of the lesions and enhancement of the lesion in AP were analyzed statistically. In addition, the initial time, ending time and duration of AP were measured.

RESULTS

The results of the 1st group showed the detectability of small HCC was 88.68% in AP and 90.57% in both phases, higher than those by US. Markedly enhanced lesion in AP accounted for 76% and 78% in the 2nd and 3rd groups respectively. The initial, ending and duration times of AP measured on single-level dynamic scans were 16.9 s, 39.6 s and 22.7 s in average respectively.

CONCLUSION

The biphase dynamic SCT especially its arterial phase appears to be very valuable in diagnosing small HCCs. In light of short duration of AP, understanding and strict control of AP is obviously imperative.

[Clinical study on effect of shenqi fuzheng injection combined with chemotherapy in treating gastric cancer]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the clinical effect of Shenqi Fuzheng Injection (SQFZI) combined with chemotherapy in treating gastric cancer.

METHODS

One hundred and twenty patients were randomly divided into 3 groups, the combined therapy group (Group A), the chemotherapy group (Group B) and the SQFZI group (Group C) and the effect on remission and stabilization of patients were observed.

RESULTS

The remission rate and stabilizing rate of Group A were 16.1% and 87.1%, those of Group B were 13.5% and 64.9%, the difference between the two groups was significant, P < 0.05. The symptom and living quality improving rate of Group A were 75.8% and 43.5% respectively, those of Group C were 61.9% and 57.1% and of Group B were 35.1% and 29.7% respectively. SQFZI showed good protective effect on hemopoietic system, 4.8% patients in Group A with WBC count lower than 4 x 10(9)/L, while the percentage reached 21.6% in Group B, the difference between the two groups was significant, P < 0.05. Moreover, SQFZI could raise activity of NK cell, macrophage and T-lymphocyte subgroups, without any injury on heart, liver and kidney function or other adverse reaction.

CONCLUSION

SQFZI combined with chemotherapy has certain effect of remission and stabilization on gastric cancer, the clinical effect is significant to patients with Qi-Deficiency, and is reliable and safe.

[Sequencing of Cyt b gene fragments and PCR identification of "jinqian baihuashe" (Bungarus parvus) and its adulterants]

DNAs extracted from both "Jinqian Baihuashe" (Bungarus parvus) and its adulterants and original animals of the crude snake drugs were used as templates for Cyt b gene fragment amplification. The sequence data of the fragments showed that the differences of the sequence between Bungarus parvus and its adulterants were far greater than that between intraspecific variations of Bungarus parvus. Therefore, the Cyt b gene fragment was a good molecular genetic marker for the authentication of Bungarus parvus. On the basis of the sequence data, a pair of specialized primers, BuL-1 and BuH-1 was designed for the PCR identification of Bungarus parvus. The effectiveness of the primers were examined at a series of anneal temperatures. The results showed that Bungarus parvus samples could be absolutely distinguished when the anneal temperatures were 60 degrees C-65 degrees C, whereas no incorrect or missing discrimination was found at these temperatures. The results also showed that the powder of Bungarus parvus which was mixed with powders of three other crude snake drugs may be detected by the PCR identification. This indicates that PCR identification may be a new method for examining the compositions of Chinese patent medicine.

A novel, putative MEK kinase controls developmental timing and spatial patterning in Dictyostelium and is regulated by ubiquitin-mediated protein degradation

We have identified a developmentally regulated, putative MEK kinase (MEKKalpha) that contains an F-box and WD40 repeats and plays a complex role in regulating cell-type differentiation and spatial patterning. Cells deficient in MEKKalpha develop precociously and exhibit abnormal cell-type patterning with an increase in one of the prestalk compartments (pstO), a concomitant reduction in the prespore domain, and a loss of the sharp compartment boundaries, resulting in overlapping prestalk and prespore domains. Overexpression of MEKKalpha or MEKKalpha lacking the WD40 repeats results in very delayed development and a severe loss of compartment boundaries. Prespore and prestalk cells are interspersed throughout the slug. Analysis of chimeric organisms suggests that MEKKalpha function is required for the proper induction and maintenance of prespore cell differentiation. We show that the WD40 repeats target MEKKalpha to the cortical region of the cell, whereas the F-box/WD40 repeats direct ubiquitin-mediated MEKKalpha degradation. We identify a UBC and a UBP (ubiquitin hydrolase) that interact with the F-box/WD40 repeats. Our findings indicate that cells lacking the ubiquitin hydrolase have phenotypes similar to those of MEKKalpha null (mekkalpha-) cells, further supporting a direct genetic and biochemical interaction between MEKKalpha, the UBC, and the UBP. We demonstrate that UBC and UBP differentially control MEKKalpha ubiquitination/deubiquitination and degradation through the F-box/WD40 repeats in a cell-type-specific and temporally regulated manner. Our results represent a novel mechanism that includes targeted protein degradation by which MAP kinase cascade components can be controlled. More importantly, our findings suggest a new paradigm of spatial and temporal control of the kinase activity controlling spatial patterning during multicellular development, which parallels the temporally regulated degradation of proteins required for cell-cycle progression.

Crystal structure of a hepatitis delta virus ribozyme

The self-cleaving ribozyme of the hepatitis delta virus (HDV) is the only catalytic RNA known to be required for the viability of a human pathogen. We obtained crystals of a 72-nucleotide, self-cleaved form of the genomic HDV ribozyme that diffract X-rays to 2.3 A resolution by engineering the RNA to bind a small, basic protein without affecting ribozyme activity. The co-crystal structure shows that the compact catalytic core comprises five helical segments connected as an intricate nested double pseudoknot. The 5'-hydroxyl leaving group resulting from the self-scission reaction is buried deep within an active-site cleft produced by juxtaposition of the helices and five strand-crossovers, and is surrounded by biochemically important backbone and base functional groups in a manner reminiscent of protein enzymes.

[Effect of hyperbaric oxygen on cerebral microcirculation and tissue cells in animals with cerebral ischemic injury]

Changes of cerebral microcirculation and tissue cells after Hyperbaric Oxygen (HBO) exposure were observed in 136 gerbils with cerebral ischemia by observation of meningeal microcirculation pathological study in cerebral tissues and determination of Na, K-ATPase. It is indicated that HBO may be helpful in improving microcirculatory dynamics and other microcirculatory functions, and enhancing cerebral tissue cell activity and cell function, as well as increasing oxygen content. It is suggested that HBO (250 approximately 300kPa) may play a role in protecting vessel endothelial cells and nerve cells.

Guanine nucleotide exchange factors regulate specificity of downstream signaling from Rac and Cdc42

The Rac and Cdc42 GTPases regulate diverse cellular behaviors involving the actin cytoskeleton, gene transcription, and the activity of multiple protein and lipid kinases. All of these pathways can potentially become activated when GTP-Rac or GTP-Cdc42 is formed in response to external cell signals, yet it is evident that each activity must also be able to be controlled individually. The mechanisms by which such specificity of GTPase signaling in response to upstream stimuli is achieved remains unclear. We investigated the action of several well characterized guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFRho) to activate Rac- and/or Cdc42-dependent kinase pathways. Coexpression studies in COS-7 cells revealed that the ability of individual guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) to activate the p21-activated kinase PAK1 could be dissociated from activation of c-Jun amino-terminal kinase, even though activation of both pathways requires the action of the GEFs on Rac and/or Cdc42. In contrast, expression of constitutively active forms of Rac or Cdc42 effectively stimulated both downstream kinases. We conclude that GEFs can be important determinants of downstream signaling specificity for members of the Rho GTPase family.

A general module for RNA crystallization

Crystallization of RNA molecules other than simple oligonucleotide duplexes remains a challenging step in structure determination by X-ray crystallography. Subjecting biochemically, covalently and conformationally homogeneous target molecules to an exhaustive array of crystallization conditions is often insufficient to yield crystals large enough for X-ray data collection. Even when large RNA crystals are obtained, they often do not diffract X-rays to resolutions that would lead to biochemically informative structures. We reasoned that a well-folded RNA molecule would typically present a largely undifferentiated molecular surface dominated by the phosphate backbone. During crystal nucleation and growth, this might result in neighboring molecules packing subtly out of register, leading to premature crystal growth cessation and disorder. To overcome this problem, we have developed a crystallization module consisting of a normally intramolecular RNA-RNA interaction that is recruited to make an intermolecular crystal contact. The target RNA molecule is engineered to contain this module at sites that do not affect biochemical activity. The presence of the crystallization module appears to drive crystal growth, in the course of which other, non-designed contacts are made. We have employed the GAAA tetraloop/tetraloop receptor interaction successfully to crystallize numerous group II intron domain 5-domain 6, and hepatitis delta virus (HDV) ribozyme RNA constructs. The use of the module allows facile growth of large crystals, making it practical to screen a large number of crystal forms for favorable diffraction properties. The method has led to group II intron domain crystals that diffract X-radiation to 3.5 A resolution.

[Rapid determination of creatinine in urine by capillary electrophoresis in a multiple injection mode]

The level of urinary creatinine in clinic diagnosis is one of the useful index of renal function, and is often used as a reference of some biochemical substance determined in random urine. In this paper, a rapid multiple-injection capillary electrophoresis(CE) method for the determination of urinary creatinine is reported. A 36 cm x 50 microns coated capillary, a phosphoric acid buffer(0.1 mol/L, pH 2.5)and UV-detector at 200 nm wavelength were used in this method. In comparing with single injection for five samples, the analysis time of five successive injections can save 20 min. By use of pyridine as internal standard, the correlation between the concentrations of creatinine and the corresponding peak height ratios of creatinine and pyridine is good(r = 0.9996), and the assay precision is acceptable. We also compared the CE method with the bio-analyser(Jeffe' kinetic), and the results showed a satisfactory correlation (r = 0.9773, n = 12) and a shorter analysis time.

[A study on enzymatic activities of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in patients with interstitial lung diseases]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between enzymatic activities in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid(BALF) and interstitial lung diseases(ILDs).

METHOD

Cellular components and levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase(GSH-PX), angiotensin converting enzyme(ACE) and lactate dehydrogenase(LDH) in BALF in 30 cases of ILDs: including 18 patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and 12 patients with sarcoidosis (Sarc) and 9 healthy controls were determined.

RESULT

(1) The levels of BALF-SOD, GSH-PX were significantly decreased(P < 0.01), and BALF-ACE, LDH were markedly increased (P < 0.05) in patients with IPF, and BALF-ACE were also increased in patients with Sarc(P < 0.05); (2) There were good correlation between ACE and percentage of lymphocyte (r1 = 0.6574, P < 0.05), and ratio of CD4+/CD8+ (r2 = 0.9544, P < 0.001) in BALF of Sarc group.

CONCLUSION

Determining enzymatic activities could be helpful to study pathogenesis and diagnosis of ILDs, BALF-ACE may be as a good marker of disease activity of Sarcoidosis.

Disruption of Dictyostelium PI3K genes reduces [32P]phosphatidylinositol 3,4 bisphosphate and [32P]phosphatidylinositol trisphosphate levels, alters F-actin distribution and impairs pinocytosis

To understand how phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) modulates cell structure and function, we examined the molecular and cellular defects of a Dictyostelium mutant strain (pik1(Delta)2(Delta)) missing two (DdPIK1 and 2) of three PI3K genes, which are homologues of the mammalian p110 subunit. Levels of [32P]phosphatidylinositol 3, 4 bisphosphate (PI(3,4)P2) and [32P]phosphatidylinositol trisphosphate (PIP3) were reduced in pik1(Delta)2(Delta), which had major defects in morphological and functional correlates of macropinocytosis. This was accompanied by dramatic deficits in a subset of F-actin-enriched structures such as circular ruffles, actin crowns and pseudopodia. Although pik1(Delta)2(Delta) were mobile, they failed to aggregate into streams. Therefore we conclude that PIK1 and 2, possibly through modulation of the levels of PIP3 and PI(3,4)P2, regulate the organization of actin filaments necessary for circular ruffling during macropinocytosis, the extension of pseudopodia and the aggregation of cells into streams, but not the regulation of cell motility.

[Apoptosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells induced by topoisomerase I inhibitor]

PURPOSE

To determine if the topoisomerase I inhibitor Camptothecin (CPT) can induce apoptosis in vitro in a human nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) cell line with low differentiation (CNE-2Z).

METHODS

The light microscopy, flow cytometry and agarose gel electrophoresis were used to examine the morphological changes, cell cycle distribution, hypodiploid cells and DNA fragmentation.

RESULTS

After exposure to CPT for a certain period, CNE-2Z cells underwent obvious morphological changes with characteristics of apoptosis such as decrease in cell volumes condensation of chromatin and the formation of apoptotic bodies. Flow cytometry (FCM) test showed that when CNE-2Z cells were treated with 2-10 mumol/L CPT for 12 or 24 hours, hypodiploid cells accounted for 30% and 50% respectively. Cell cycle analysis by FCM revealed that changes in CNE-2Z cell cycle distribution were apparent 24 hours after treatment with various doses of CPT, showing no obvious dose-dependent relationship. Compared with controls, the percentage of cells in G2/M phase decreased markedly while those in G1 and S phases increased moderately.

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrated that DNA topoisomerase I inhibitor Camptothecin can induce apoptosis in CNE-2Z cells in vitro.

[Prospects of application of DNA molecular genetic marker to pharmacognostical identification]

The theoretical foundation of application of DNA molecular genetic marker to pharmacognostical identification is summarized. The practical application of the marker is reviewed, the matters deserving attention during application are pointed out, and vistas of the application are spelled out.

[An experimental study on regeneration device for urine and waste water in space station]

The principle, structure and function of the regeneration system for urine and waste water treatment were introduced. The experimental results demonstrated that, the treatment capacity was 1.2-1.9 kg/h, and the regeneration efficiency exceeded 92%. The quality of the treated water were: TOC < 20 g/m3, (NH3 + NH4+) < 10 g/m3, electric conductivity < 100 micro s/cm, pH= 6-8.

[Determination of human urinary pseudouridine by high performance capillary electrophoresis]

Pseudouridine, mainly as a degradation product of transfer ribonucleic acid, has been shown to be excreted in abnormal amounts in the urine of patients with cancer and can be used as one of the potentially valuable tumor markers. In this paper, a method for the rapid determination of human urinary pseudouridine by HPCE is reported. We used a 24 cm x 25 microm i.d. coated capillary and a borate buffer solution (0.1 mol/L, pH 8.6), and set the UV detection wavelength at 200 nm. In this experiment, pseudouridine can be separated completely with uridine and anti-tumor drugs (5-fluouridine and methetrexation) and other endogenous substances in urine within 4 minutes. Assay precision was determined for concentrations of 50 micromol/L and 200 micromol/L as 2.38% and 1.92% for within-day CV, 3.7% and 2.4% for between-day CV respectively. Sulfosalicylic acid was used as internal standard. Linearity, between the concentrations of pseudouridine and the corresponding peak height or area ratios of pseudouridine and the internal standard, was demonstrated in the 6.25-200 micromol/L range (r>0.9990). The detection limit of concentration for pseudouridine was 4 micromol/L. This method, with simple sample preparation, good assay precision, lower cost and full-automation, is an effective means for the assessment of pseudouridine in clinical application.

Evidence that intramolecular interactions are involved in masking the activation domain of transcriptional activator Leu3p

The Leu3 protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae regulates the expression of genes involved in branched chain amino acid biosynthesis and in ammonia assimilation. It is modulated by alpha-isopropylmalate, an intermediate in leucine biosynthesis. In the presence of alpha-isopropylmalate, Leu3p is a transcriptional activator. In the absence of the signal molecule, the activation domain is masked, and Leu3p acts as a repressor. The recent discovery that Leu3p retains its regulatory properties when expressed in mammalian cells (Guo, H., and Kohlhaw, G. B. (1996) FEBS Lett. 390, 191-195) suggests that masking and unmasking of the activation domain occur without the participation of auxiliary proteins. Here we present experimental support for this notion and address the mechanism of masking. We show that modulation of Leu3p is exceedingly sensitive to mutations in the activation domain. An activation domain double mutant (D872N/D874N; designated Leu3-dd) was constructed that has the characteristics of a permanently masked activator. Using separately expressed segments containing either the DNA binding domain-middle region or the activation domain of wild type Leu3p (or Leu3-dd) in a modified yeast two-hybrid system, we provide direct evidence for alpha-isopropylmalate-dependent interaction between these segments. Finally, we use the phenotype of Leu3-dd-containing cells (slow growth in the absence of added leucine) to select for suppressor mutations that map to the middle region of Leu3-dd. The properties of nine such suppressors further support the idea that masking is an intramolecular process and suggest a means for mapping the surface involved in masking.

Experimental asthma developed by room air contamination with cockroach allergen

To study the asthmatogenic effect of certain airborne elements of the home environment, we studied a group of guinea pigs exposed to aerosolized cockroach allergen (CRa) and side-stream cigarette (S-SC) smoke. Four groups of guinea pigs were exposed to aerosols, either saline or CRa, for 4 weeks, after a sham or S-SC smoke pretreatment. Anaphylactic antibodies were measured by passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) assay and by skin test. Animals were challenged with aerosol CRa on day 35, and lung function and leukotrienes (LTB4 and LTC4/D4) were measured. Skin tests were positive on days 21 and 29. The antibodies were heat-stable, IgG1a-like antibodies (PCA titers 1:2-18). The CRa challenge caused an immediate reduction in both the maximal expiratory flow rate at 50% of the lung capacity and respiratory compliance. The decreased lung function continued for up to 6 h (p < 0.0001). LTB4 and LTC4/D4 were elevated (p < 0.0001) in the sensitized animals at the corresponding times of reduced lung function. S-SC smoke did not affect the CRa sensitization; instead, a protective effect on the CRa-induced bronchospasms was noted. Thus, the study indicates that a simple airborne CRa exposure without an adjuvant sensitizes guinea pigs, and that the animals respond to antigen challenge with CRa-specific airway obstructions.

RNA tertiary structure mediation by adenosine platforms

The crystal structure of a group I intron domain reveals an unexpected motif that mediates both intra- and intermolecular interactions. At three separate locations in the 160-nucleotide domain, adjacent adenosines in the sequence lie side-by-side and form a pseudo-base pair within a helix. This adenosine platform opens the minor groove for base stacking or base pairing with nucleotides from a noncontiguous RNA strand. The platform motif has a distinctive chemical modification signature that may enable its detection in other structured RNAs. The ability of this motif to facilitate higher order folding provides one explanation for the abundance of adenosine residues in internal loops of many RNAs.

Crystal structure of a group I ribozyme domain: principles of RNA packing

Group I self-splicing introns catalyze their own excision from precursor RNAs by way of a two-step transesterification reaction. The catalytic core of these ribozymes is formed by two structural domains. The 2.8-angstrom crystal structure of one of these, the P4-P6 domain of the Tetrahymena thermophila intron, is described. In the 160-nucleotide domain, a sharp bend allows stacked helices of the conserved core to pack alongside helices of an adjacent region. Two specific long-range interactions clamp the two halves of the domain together: a two-Mg2+-coordinated adenosine-rich corkscrew plugs into the minor groove of a helix, and a GAAA hairpin loop binds to a conserved 11-nucleotide internal loop. Metal- and ribose-mediated backbone contacts further stabilize the close side-by-side helical packing. The structure indicates the extent of RNA packing required for the function of large ribozymes, the spliceosome, and the ribosome.

A phosphatidylinositol (PI) kinase gene family in Dictyostelium discoideum: biological roles of putative mammalian p110 and yeast Vps34p PI 3-kinase homologs during growth and development

Three groups of phosphatidylinositol (PI) kinases convert PI into PI(3)phosphate, PI(4)phosphate, PI(4,5) bisphosphate, and PI(3,4,5)trisphosphate. These phosphoinositides have been shown to function in vesicle-mediated protein sorting, and they serve as second-messenger signaling molecules for regulating cell growth. To further elucidate the mechanism of regulation and function of phosphoinositides, we cloned genes encoding five putative PI kinases from Dictyostelium discoideum. Database analysis indicates that D. discoideum PIK1 (DdPIK1), -2, and -3 are most closely related to the mammalian p110 PI 3-kinase, DdPIK5 is closest to the yeast Vps34p PI 3-kinase, and DdPIK4 is most homologous to PI 4-kinases. Together with other known PI kinases, a superfamily of PI kinase genes has been defined, with all of the encoded proteins sharing a common highly conserved catalytic core domain. DdPIK1, -2, and -3 may have redundant functions because disruption of any single gene had no effect on D. discoideum growth or development. However, strains in which both of the two most highly related genes, DdPIK1 and DdPIK2, were disrupted showed both growth and developmental defects, while double knockouts of DdPIK1 and DdPIK3 and DdPIK2 and DdPIK3 appear to be lethal. The delta Ddpik1 delta Ddpik2 null cells were smaller than wild-type cells and grew slowly both in association with bacteria and in axenic medium when attached to petri plates but were unable to grow in suspension in axenic medium. When delta Ddpik1 delta Ddpik2 null cells were plated for multicellular development, they formed aggregates having multiple tips and produced abnormal fruiting bodies. Antisense expression of DdPIK5 (a putative homolog of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae VPS34) led to a defect in the growth of D. discoideum cells on bacterial lawns and abnormal development. DdPIK5 complemented the temperature-sensitive growth defect of a Schizosaccharomyces pombe delta Svps34 mutant strain, suggesting DdPIK5 encodes a functional homolog of yeast Vps34p. These observations indicate that in D. discoideum, different PI kinases regulate distinct cellular processes, including cell growth, development, and protein trafficking.

[Study on cells associated with human liver fibrosis]

The cells which related to deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) in human liver fibrogenesis were investigated with immunohistochemistry (IHC) and nucleic acid hybridization. Results showed that ECMs were high in chronic liver disease (CLD) tissues, particularly collagen III and its mRNA in active-CLD. In this group, cells positive for pre-collagen III pro-peptide (PIIIP) and collagen III mRNA were markedly increased and mostly located in the area connecting interstitium and parenchyma. These collagen producing cells were mainly the interstitial cells identified by IHC and electron microscopy as fat storing cells and associated myofibroblasts and fibroblasts. Their degree of hyperplasia was closely related to the infiltration of inflammatory cells.

[CT examination for renal vein thrombosis in nephrotic syndrome and the effect of thrombolytic therapy]

Renal vein thrombosis (RVT) was diagnosed in 12 of 60 patients with nephrotic syndrome with CT scan and confirmed by selective renal angiography. Of the 60 patients, 50 had primary glomerulonephritis with various pathological findings and 10 lupus nephritis. CT is valuable in screening renal vein thrombosis. Renal vein and cubital vein blood in the 12 patients were drawn for assay of FDP, AT III, VIIIR: AG, fibrinogen; the results indicated the presence of a state of hypercoagulation. Of these, 7 were given 200,000 units of urokinase (UK) in divided doses into renal vein within one hour and 5,200,000 units UK into renal artery in the same way. Patients also received 2.5mg/d warfarin and 75mg/d persantine. Except for the 3 with focal sclerosis, patients received 40mg/d prednisone. After 1 month CT and blood fibrinogen, FDP, AT III, VIIIR: AG studies were repeated. RVT in patients with intraarterial UK had complete dissolution of their thrombi. Complete dissolution occurred in 2 of the 7 receiving UK by renal vein and there was partial dissolution in the other 5. It seems that intraarterial injection yielded better results. Hypercoagulation state was alleviated in all patients with UK therapy.

[Investigation of blood supply of bronchogenic carcinoma deriving from pulmonary artery]

Microfil perfusion technique was used to investigate the blood supply of bronchogenic carcinoma deriving from pulmonary artery on 20 fresh specimens of lung cancer, including 11 squamous carcinoma, 6 adenocarcinoma, 1 alveolar cell carcinoma and 2 undifferentiated carcinoma cases. The results showed that the appearance and quantity of pulmonary blood supply of bronchogenic carcinoma depended on and changed with the site, activity, growth mode as well as the local condition of tumor nodules; pulmonary artery supplied blood to the periphery of the tumor and its innermost part as well; vessels from pulmonary artery in tumor nodules were generally less in number than those in the surrouding normal lung tissues around. The results suggested that the tumor blood supply from pulmonary artery should be evaluated comprehensively and dynamically; during interventional chemotherapy via pulmonary artery, patients should be selected carefully and the catheter for infusion placed in suitable position so as to gain the best therapeutic effect.

Cloning and targeted mutations of G alpha 7 and G alpha 8, two developmentally regulated G protein alpha-subunit genes in Dictyostelium

GTP-binding protein (G protein)-mediated signal transduction pathways play essential roles during the aggregation and differentiation process of Dictyostelium. In addition to the five known G protein alpha-subunit genes, we recently identified three novel alpha-subunit genes, G alpha 6, G alpha 7, and G alpha 8, using the polymerase chain reaction technique. We present here a more complete analysis of G alpha 7 and G alpha 8. The cDNAs of these two genes were cloned, and their complete nucleotide sequences were determined. Sequence analyses indicate that G alpha 8 possesses some unusual features. It lacks the "TCATDT" motif, a sequence of amino acids highly conserved among G alpha subunits, and has an additional 50 amino acids at its C-terminus consisting of long stretches of asparagine. Moreover, G alpha 8 is unusually resistant to protease digestion, which may indicate a slow GTP hydrolysis rate. The possible functions of these alpha-subunits were assessed by generating mutants lacking G alpha 7 or G alpha 8 by gene targeting through homologous recombination and by overexpressing G alpha 7 or G alpha 8 protein. Overexpression of G alpha 7 resulted in abnormal morphogenesis starting at the slug stage, whereas analysis of the other strains failed to reveal any obvious growth or developmental defects under either normal or stressful conditions. The implications of these results are discussed.

Structure of trichosanthin at 1.88 A resolution

Trichosanthin (TCS) is one of the single chain ribosome-inactivating proteins (RIPs). The crystals of the orthorhombic form of trichosanthin have been obtained from a citrate buffer (pH 5.4) with KCl as the precipitant. The crystal belongs to the space group P2(1)2(1)2(1) with a = 38.31, b = 76.22, c = 79.21 A. The structure was solved by molecular replacement method and refined using the programs XPLOR and PROLSQ to an R-factor of 0.191 for the reflections within the 6-1.88 A resolution range. The bond length and bond angle in the protein molecule have root-mean-square deviations from ideal value of 0.013 A and 3.3 degrees, respectively. The refined model includes 247 residues and 197 water molecules. The TCS molecule consists of two structural domains. The large domain contains six alpha-helices, a six-stranded sheet, and an antiparallel beta-sheet. The small domain has a largest alpha-helix, which shows a distinct bend. The possible active site of the molecule located on the cleft between two domains was proposed. In the active site Arg-163 and Glu-160, Glu-189 and Arg-122 form two ion pairs, Glu-189 and Gln-156 are hydrogen bonded to each other. Three water molecules are bonded to the residues in the active site region. The structures of TCS molecule and ricin A-chain (RTA) superimpose quite well, showing that the structures of the two protein molecules are homologous. Comparison of the structures of the TCS molecule in this orthorhombic crystal with that in the monoclinic crystal indicates that there are no essential differences of the structures between the two protein crystals.

DRB, DQA, DQB and DPB nucleotide sequences of Saguinus oedipus B95-8

We present eight new nucleotide sequences derived from the second exons of class II genes within the major histocompatibility complex of Sanguinus oedipus (cotton-top tamarin). These comprise two DRB alleles (Saoe-DRB3*0504, -DRB*w1203), two DQA1 alleles (Saoe-DQA1*2501, -DQA1*2502), two DQB1 alleles (Saoe-DQB1*2201, -DQB1*2301), one DQB2 allele (Saoe-DQB2*0101) and one DPB1 allele (Saoe-DPB1*0101).

Indirect latex contact causes urticaria/anaphylaxis

Recurrent urticaria/anaphylaxis is a most perplexing and critical problem, often of unknown cause. Though difficult and time consuming, identification of causes(s) can be life saving and cost saving for the patient(s). We report a complex case of urticaria/anaphylaxis induced by latex allergen in a former intensive care unit nurse, in which the allergen contact occurred remotely and indirectly by intimate contact with the spouse. Diagnosis of the latex allergy was confirmed by epicutaneous skin test in vivo as well as RAST.

Biocompatibilities of organic solvents with Lactobacillus delbrueckii

In the search for biocompatible extractants for extractive fermentation of lactic acid, the effect of twelve organic solvents on the activity of L. delbrueckii were studied at different concentration levels. On this basis, the compatibilities of twelve solvents with L. delbrueckii were summarized into four classes: completely compatible, compatible at molecular level, partially compatible and non-compatible. The characteristics were described qualitatively for each class in terms of relative values between the solubility of organic solvent in water (Cs) and the toxicity of organic solvent, which is indicated by a newly defined concentration parameter (Cm). The classification was helpful for the selection of extractant in extractive fermentation.

Nucleotide sequencing of HLA-DQ gene second exons in Chinese homozygous cells

Six HLA class I and class II-homozygous Chinese cell lines with unique HLA-Dw types were studied. Since the majority of HLA class II nucleotide sequence polymorphism is localized within the second exons of the genes, we used the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify these regions in HLA-DQA and DQB genes and subsequently determined the nucleotide sequences. No unique DQA1 or DQB1 alleles were found. However, a new haplotype of DQA1*0601-DQB1*0301-DRB1*1202 was found in two cells; and DQA1*03011 was found in association with DR9 in another two cells. This indicates that new DR-DQ associations may explain the observed new HLA-Dw types. The DQB2 sequences were identical in all six cells and were identical to a sequence previously reported in a DR6 haplotype. The DQA2 sequences from two clones obtained from two cells differed from each other and from previously reported sequences. The results show that the DQA1 and DQB1 alleles in the Chinese individuals studied are as previously reported in Caucasian populations and as such may be typed by restriction fragment-length polymorphism (RFLP) or PCR-sequence-specific oligonucleotide typing (PCR-SSO) or PCR-RFLP using conventional probe or restriction enzyme sets.

X-ray studies reveal lanthanide binding sites at the A/B5 interface of E. coli heat labile enterotoxin

The crystal structure determination of heat labile enterotoxin (LT) bound to two different lanthanide ions, erbium and samarium, revealed two distinct ion binding sites in the interface of the A subunit and the B pentamer of the toxin. One of the interface sites is conserved in the very similar cholera toxin sequence. These sites may be potential calcium binding sites. Erbium and samarium binding causes a change in the structure of LT: a rotation of the A1 subunit of up to two degrees relative to the B pentamer.

[Keshan disease and the selenium content of grains in Yunnan province]

The selenium content of 518 specimens of rice, wheat, maize, soybean and highland barley growing both in Keshan disease area and other places in Yunnan Province, was determined and it was found that the average selenium content of the grains in the Keshan disease area was lower than that in the other places. The selenium content of rice especially was much lower than that of wheat and soybean. The relationship of Keshan disease to the low selenium content of grains, especially rice, the most eaten grain by people in the disease area, seemed clearly established in Yunnan province as well.

Image restoration using multigrid methods

In this paper, we discuss several iterative methods for solving the system of linear equations that arises in the process of solving a Fredholm integral equation of the first kind. When applied to the very large systems that arise in connection with two- or three-dimension signal reconstructions, direct methods based on the singular-value decomposition require too much computation and conventional single grid iterative schemes may converge too slowly. We have developed a multigrid scheme in which the solution is sought on a fine grid, but discretizations on a set of coarser grids are used for intermediate calculations to reduce the overall computation effort. Although the quality of the reconstruction obtained using such methods is typically not as good as that achieved using a singular-value decomposition based method, computational considerations should make multigrid methods appealing for large systems of equations.