Interleukin-10 attenuates experimental fetal growth restriction and demise

Premature labor, fetal demise, and fetal growth restriction are accompanied by indices of inflammation or infection of the uteroplacental unit. To understand whether these events are causally related, we established an animal model of fetal demise and growth restriction and evaluated the potential utility of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10). We administered low-dose endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide, or LPS, 100 microg/kg, i.p.) to third trimester rats (gestational days 14-20). Control rats received normal saline. A third group received IL-10 (100 microg/kg; s.c.) concomitantly with LPS for 7 prenatal days. Cytokine gene expression (IL-10 and TNF-alpha) was evaluated by RT-PCR and tissue levels (TNF-alpha) were determined by ELISA. Apoptosis was evaluated by TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling immunohistochemistry, and nitric oxide (NO) levels were quantified by microelectrode electrochemical detection in explants in culture media. LPS exposure resulted in 43% fetal demise and reduced the size of the surviving fetuses. Placental weight was not altered by LPS. IL-10 attenuated the LPS-induced fetal death rate (to 22%) and growth restriction (P<0.05). In normal rats, IL-10 did not affect fetus size or the incidence of resorptions, although placental size was marginally smaller. Increased uterine TNF-alpha content and NO release and apoptosis of uterine epithelia and muscularis were hallmarks of the LPS model. All were normalized by IL-10. IL-10 may represent a new therapeutic option for the treatment of a variety of perinatal complications. Benefit may result from the suppression of TNF-alpha- and NO-mediated cell death.

Structure of a G48H mutant of HIV-1 protease explains how glycine-48 replacements produce mutants resistant to inhibitor drugs

The crystal structure of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) protease mutant G48H with peptidic inhibitor U-89360E is described. Comparison with wild-type protease-inhibitor complex shows that mutation of flap residue 48 to histidine allows stabilizing van der Waals contacts between the side chains of His48 and Phe53 as well as between His48 and the P2' and P3' inhibitor subsites. The flap region is less mobile than in the wild-type enzyme. A model of saquinavir-resistant mutant protease G48V in complex with saquinavir predicts interactions similar to those found in the G48H crystal. Energetic calculations confirm the similarity of the His48 and Val48 interactions.

New approach to studies on ECG dynamics: extraction and analyses of QRS complex irregularity time series

How to extract information intensively from ECGs for the diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases and assessment of heart function is a topical subject. Using a method based on the wavelet transform to calculate the irregularity of the QRS complex, which may relate to inotropy, the QRS complex irregularity time series is successfully extracted from original ECG signals. This provides a new approach to studies of ECG dynamics. With the help of non-linear dynamics theory, the QRS complex irregularity time series of eight subjects from the MIT/BIH arrhythmia database are studied qualitatively and quantitatively, and the characteristics of ECG dynamics are analysed extensively. The power spectrum, phase portrait, correlation dimension, largest Lyapunov exponent, time-dependent divergence exponent and complexity measure all verify the fact that ECG dynamics are dominated by an underlying 5-6-dimensional non-linear chaotic system, whose complexity measure is about 0.7. The QRS complex irregularity time series contains abundant information about all parts of the heart and the regulation of the autonomic nervous system, and so further analyses are of great potential theoretical and clinical significance to patho-physiology studies and ambulatory monitoring.

Measurement of very low stable isotope enrichments by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry: application to measurement of muscle protein synthesis

Measurement of muscle protein synthesis using stable isotopically labeled tracers usually requires isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) because of the need to measure very low enrichments of stable isotopically labeled tracers (tracer to tracee ratio [TTR], 0.005% to 0.10%). This approach is laborious, requiring purification of the metabolite of interest and combustion to a gas for IRMS analysis, and is best suited for use with 13C tracers. We have developed an approach whereby low enrichments can be conveniently measured by a conventional gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) instrument. The approach includes three critical elements: (1) use of a highly substituted tracer containing three or more labeled atoms, to measure enrichment above a very low natural abundance of highly substituted isotopomers; (2) use of a highly substituted natural abundance isotopomer as a base ion for comparison rather than the most abundant m + 0 isotopomer, to reduce the dynamic range of the isotopomer ratio measurement; and (3) a sensitive mass spectrometric analysis that measures the natural abundance of the isotopomer used as a tracer with a high signal to noise ratio (> 100:1). This approach was used to measure the rate of synthesis of muscle protein following a primed continuous infusion of L-[13C6]-phenylalanine (PHE) in eight fasted dogs and L-[2H3]-leucine in five fasted human subjects. Values for [13C6]-PHE enrichment by GC/MS rates were virtually identical to those obtained by a conventional approach using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to isolate PHE, combustion to CO2, and measurement of 13CO2 enrichment by IRMS (IRMS enrichment = 0.9988 x GC/MS enrichment, R2 = .891), resulting in identical values for muscle fractional synthesis rates ([FSRs] mean +/- SEM: 2.7 +/- 0.2 and 2.5 +/- 0.2%/d for GC/MS and IRMS, respectively). Human muscle synthesis rates measured by GC/MS analysis of [2H3]-leucine enrichment (1.90 +/- 0.17%/d) were similar to published values based on IRMS analysis using a 1- 13C-leucine tracer. We conclude that compared with the IRMS approach, the GC/MS approach offers faster throughput, has a lower sample requirement, and is suitable for a wider variety of tracers such as 2H. The principles outlined here should be applicable to the measurement of low enrichments by GC/MS in a wide variety of stable isotope tracer applications.

[Involvement of nitric oxide and cGMP in the protective effect of neurotensin on hepatocytes]

In the present work, the relation of cytoprotection of neurotensin to nitric oxide (NO), cGMP and cAMP was investigated in primary cultured mouse hepatocytes. The results are as follows: After administration of acetaminophen (20 mmol/L) to the medium, the leakage of GOT and GPT increased significantly. Pretreatment with neurotensin (10(-7) mol/L) before acetaminophen reduced the leakage of GOT and GPT. No synthase inhibitor, L-NAME, completely blocked the cytoprotective effect of neurotensin. Neurotensin could enhance the intracellular cGMP content, but had no effect on cAMP content. These results indicate that the protective effect of neurotensin on hepatocytes is mediated by NO probably by enhancing intracellular cGMP content.

Plasma acylation-stimulating protein in coronary artery disease

To date, plasma levels of acylation-stimulating protein (ASP) have been determined only in normal and obese individuals. Accordingly. ASP was measured in fasting samples obtained from 59 age-matched controls and 208 patients with documented coronary artery disease (CAD). Overall, plasma ASP was significantly higher in the CAD subjects compared to the control subjects (55.3 +/- 1.8 nmol/L CAD versus 32.0 +/- 2.6 nmol/L control, P < .0005). In the control group, the distribution of plasma ASP values was unimodal whereas in the coronary group it was significantly skewed to the right. The coronary group was subdivided into those with pronounced elevation of apoB (a marked type II phenotype, n = 13), those with hypertriglyceridemia with a normal apoB (n = 17), and the remaining CAD subjects (n = 178). In the first two groups, ASP did not differ significantly from control subjects (43 +/- 2.8 nmol/L and 49 +/- 4.4 nmol/L respectively). By contrast, in the remaining CAD subjects, both the mean ASP level (56.8 +/- 2.0 nmol/L, P < .001 by ANOVA) and the proportion of patients with a markedly elevated ASP (25.3% were > 95th percentile, P < .005 versus control by X2) were significantly increased. When this third group was divided into tertiles by plasma apoB and triglyceride there was a direct relationship between plasma ASP and these two parameters. Linear regression analysis demonstrated an association between plasma ASP and plasma triglyceride (P < .05), VLDL cholesterol (P < .025), and VLDL apoB (P < .05). Finally, when all of the CAD subjects were divided by apoE phenotype, there appeared to be a relationship between plasma ASP and apoE phenotype such that ASP was higher in E2 subjects, intermediate in E3 subjects, and lower in E4 subjects. The present data document plasma ASP levels in a number of dyslipoproteinemic states and suggest a relation between the adipsin-ASP pathway and other metabolic determinants of lipoprotein metabolism.

Peroxynitrite-induced apoptosis in T84 and RAW 264.7 cells: attenuation by L-ascorbic acid

The free radicals nitric oxide and superoxide react to form peroxynitrite (ONOO-), a potent cytotoxic oxidant. This study was designed to evaluate whether addition of L-Ascorbic acid (AsC) into the culture medium decreases peroxynitrite-induced apoptosis in human intestinal epithelial (T84) and murine macrophage (RAW 264.7) cell lines. In Experiment 1, T84 and RAW 264.7 cells were divided in two protocols: (1) treated with 100-300 microM ONOO- and incubated for 4 h, and (2) treated with 10-100 microM ONOO- and incubated overnight (14 h). In Experiment 2, T84 and RAW 264.7 cells were treated with 300 microM ONOO- and 500 microM AsC and incubated for 4 h. In Experiment 3, T84 and RAW 264.7 cells were preincubated for 2 h with 500 microM AsC then exposed to 300 microM ONOO- for 4 h. Cell viability (necrosis) was assessed by trypan blue dye exclusion. Apoptosis was quantified with a cell death detection ELISA assay. In the 4 h protocol, ONOO- induced apoptosis in T84 and RAW 264.7 cells, at levels of 100-300 microM. Concentrations of ONOO- greater than 300 microM caused necrosis. In contrast, extension of the protocol to 14 h indicated that ONOO- induced apoptosis at lower concentrations (50;-75 microM), with concentrations > 75 microM resulting in necrosis. AsC administered to the media or with preincubation plus washout, decreased peroxynitrite-induced apoptosis in T84 and RAW 264.7 cells. These results indicate that ONOO- may contribute to the pathophysiology of gut inflammation by promoting cell death and ascorbic acid may protect against peroxynitrie-induced damage.

Inducible nitric oxide synthase, nitrotyrosine, and apoptosis in Helicobacter pylori gastritis: effect of antibiotics and antioxidants

Helicobacter pylori infection is a known risk factor for gastric cancer. We hypothesized that H. pylori infection would lead to the sustained production of the reactive nitrogen species nitric oxide and peroxynitrite as part of the host immune response. We further hypothesized that H. pylori infection would lead to increased apoptosis of gastric epithelial cells, possibly in response to free radical-mediated DNA damage. Using immunohistochemistry, we stained and scored gastric antral biopsies from 84 Colombian patients with nonatrophic gastritis before and after treatment for H. pylori infection. We examined expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS); nitrotyrosine, a marker for peroxynitrite; and DNA fragmentation, a marker for apoptosis. Patients were treated with triple therapy (amoxicillin, 500 mg three times a day for 2 weeks; metronidazole, 400 mg three times a day for 2 weeks; and bismuth subsalicylate, 262 mg four times a day for 2 weeks, followed by 262 mg every day for 4-12 months). Eradication of H. pylori infection resulted in a significant reduction in iNOS and nitrotyrosine staining and a marginally significant reduction in apoptosis. Dietary supplementation with beta-carotene (30 mg every day for 4-12 months) resulted in a significant decrease in iNOS staining. Supplementation with ascorbic acid (1 g twice a day for 4-12 months) led to a significant reduction in nitrotyrosine staining. In patients supplemented with either ascorbic acid or beta-carotene, there was a trend toward a reduction in apoptosis, but this was not statistically significant. We conclude that H. pylori infection is accompanied by the formation of endogenous reactive nitrogen intermediates, which may contribute to DNA damage and apoptosis. In addition to antimicrobial therapy, dietary supplementation with beta-carotene and ascorbic acid may prevent the formation of these potential carcinogens.

Response of phosphoenolpyruvate cycle activity to fasting and to hyperinsulinemia in human subjects

We have used a new isotopic tracer technique to investigate the physiological role of the phosphoenolpyruvate (PEP) cycle in metabolic adaptation to fasting and to hyperinsulinemia. The forward direction of the PEP cycle is the conversion of oxaloacetate (OAA) to PEP, and the net flux of the cycle is the rate at which PEP from OAA goes on to form glucose or glycogen, as opposed to being recycled to pyruvate and then OAA. Normal volunteers (n = 6) were studied after an overnight fast and then again after 3 days of fasting, and five additional subjects were studied during a hyperinsulinemic clamp (insulin concentration = 568 +/- 25 microU/ml, glucose infusion = 14.2 +/- 0.55 mg.kg-1.min-1). After an overnight fast, 35.4 +/- 6.7% of PEP from OAA was recycled to pyruvate-lactate. Short-term fasting caused a significant increase in the conversion of OAA to PEP and also a drop in the percentage of PEP from OAA that went to pyruvate-lactate to 15.2 +/- 4.0%. The principal response to hyperinsulinemia was a decrease in the recycling of OAA to lactate, because there was no significant change in the conversion of OAA to PEP. We conclude that changes in both directions of the PEP cycle are important in regulating gluconeogenic-glyconeogenic flux.

Metabolic response to radiation therapy in patients with cancer

The effect of radiation therapy on substrate metabolism was evaluated in five patients with head and neck or lung cancer. Stable isotope tracer methodology was used to determine urea, amino acid, glucose, and lipid kinetics during postabsorptive conditions before initiation, near the midpoint (after receiving 2,672 +/- 36 rads), and at completion (after receiving 6,072 +/- 307 rad) of a 6- to 8-week course of radiation therapy. Nutritional status was maintained throughout the treatment period by providing supplemental enteral feedings as needed. Postabsorptive plasma insulin, catecholamine, and amino acid concentrations did not change during the course of treatment. Before radiation therapy was initiated, values for the plasma rate of appearance (Ra) of urea (3.35 +/- 0.33 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1)), alpha-ketoisocaproate ([alpha-KIC] 2.16 +/- 0.19 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1)), phenylalanine (0.59 +/- 0.052 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1)), and glucose (10.56 +/- 1.31 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1)) were in the normal range. However, glycerol and palmitate Ra values (3.11 +/- 0.30 and 2.01 +/- 0.33 micromol x kg(-1) x min(-1), respectively) were 25% higher than values observed previously in normal subjects. Substrate flux did not change during radiation therapy, and measurements obtained during the midpoint and at completion of treatment were similar to initial values. These results demonstrate that large doses of radiation therapy, administered over 6 to 8 weeks to the upper body, do not cause significant metabolic stress.

Failure of L-NAME to cause inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis: role of inducible nitric oxide synthase

We addressed the hypothesis that administration of nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, NG -nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) does not result in a sustained suppression of nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, because of a compensatory expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). L-NAME was administered in the drinking water (0.1-1.0 mg/ml) for 7 days to guinea pigs and rats. Nitric oxide synthesis was assessed by [1] ex vivo formation of nitrite in blood vessels and intestine [2] tissue levels of cGMP [3] iNOS gene expression by RT-PCR [4] NADPH diaphorase staining [5] direct assessment of NO release in tissue explants using a microelectrode/electrochemical detection system. Chronic L-NAME administration elevated intestinal cGMP and nitrite levels in guinea pigs (p < 0.05). In rats, intestinal nitrite levels were comparable in control and L-NAME treatment groups, whereas direct assessment of NO release defined a marked increase in the L-NAME group. Chronic L-NAME resulted in an induction of iNOS gene expression in rats and guinea pigs and novel sites of NADPH diaphorase staining in the intestine. We conclude that iNOS expression is responsible for a compensatory increase or normalization of NO synthesis during sustained administration of L-NAME.

TNF directly stimulates glucose uptake and leucine oxidation and inhibits FFA flux in conscious dogs

We tested the hypothesis that the metabolic changes in glucose, lipid, and protein metabolism seen during tumor necrosis factor (TNF) infusion were due to the increase in plasma glucagon concentration rather than to the direct effects of TNF. We employed a pancreatic clamp technique to keep plasma insulin and glucagon concentrations constant throughout a 4-h isotope infusion. Glucose, lipid, and protein kinetics were measured by means of the primed, constant infusion of [6,6-2H]glucose, [2H5]glycerol, [2H2]palmitic acid, and [1-13C]leucine. After a 2-h baseline period (period 1), TNF was infused as a primed, constant infusion (prime, 2.5 micrograms/kg; constant infusion, 62.5 ng.kg-1.min-1) for 2 h (period 2). Whereas plasma glucose concentration dropped significantly during TNF infusion, endogenous glucose production did not change. The decrease in glucose concentrations was due to a stimulation of glucose clearance (P < 0.05). The rate of lipolysis did not decrease significantly, but free fatty acid (FFA) flux and plasma FFA concentration significantly decreased during TNF infusion (P < 0.05). The rate of appearance of leucine was not affected by TNF infusion, but TNF caused a significant increase in 13CO2 excretion (P < 0.05) and leucine oxidation (P < 0.05). The calculated rates of whole body protein synthesis decreased. We concluded that TNF did not directly affect glucose production. Furthermore, changes in protein and lipid kinetics during TNF infusion were not mediated by changes in insulin or glucagon and may have reflected direct effects of TNF.

An isotopic method for measurement of muscle protein fractional breakdown rate in vivo

We have developed a novel method to measure the fractional breakdown rate (FBR) of muscle protein. This method involves infusing isotope tracer to reach an isotopic equilibrium and then observing its decay in the arterial blood and muscle intracellular pool. The calculation of FBR is based on the rate at which tracee released from breakdown dilutes the intracellular enrichment using a modified precursor-product equation. To test this method, L-[1,2-13C2]leucine and L-[ring-13C6]phenylalanine were infused into six dogs for measurement of FBR and fractional synthesis rate (FSR), respectively. Leucine and phenylalanine kinetics in the hindlimb were measured simultaneously using the arteriovenous (A-V) balance method. The measured FBR (0.17 +/- 0.02%/h) and FSR (0.10 +/- 0.01%/h) were in agreement with the results from the A-V balance method. In conclusion, our new method provides a feasible approach for measurement of muscle protein FBR. This method can be combined with the tracer incorporation method to measure both breakdown and synthesis in the same infusion study.

Guillain-Barré syndrome or "new" Chinese paralytic syndrome in northern China?

A serial study of clinical and magnetic stimulation motor evoked potentials (MEP) was accomplished in 44 patients with the acute flaccid paralytic syndrome which occurred in Northern China in 1991. Control data were provided by 70 healthy subjects from the same area. The cases came from the same area where a so-called new "Chinese paralytic syndrome" had been reported. We found the clinical features of these 44 patients to be similar to those of classical Guillain-Barré. Prolongation of MEP latency at 2 sites or on 2 occasions was found in 36 patients of whom 26 showed obvious clinical and electrophysiological recovery within 4-8 weeks. Three cases showed reduced MEP amplitude with normal latency, but in 2 of them the amplitude recovered in 2-8 weeks. Only 2 cases had no response at all time. We think 41 patients (93.7%) had predominant nerve demyelination. The 3 other patients (6.8%) showed axonal degeneration which is within the range found in previous reports of classical Guillain-Barré. We conclude that the acute paralytic syndrome seen in the summer of 1991 in Northern China represents a classical Guillain-Barré syndrome with demyelination of motor and sensory fibers. There is no reason to consider any special nomenclature such as "Chinese paralytic syndrome" or "acute motor axonal neuropathy."

An animal model for measurement of protein metabolism in the skin

BACKGROUND

A suitable in vivo approach with which to quantify skin protein metabolism has not been found, and consequently no information exists relating protein synthesis to protein breakdown in the fasted state.

METHODS

Stable isotope-labeled phenylalanine was infused into five fasted rabbits, and amino acid and protein kinetics were calculated from a three-compartment model with the rabbit ear used as an arteriovenous balance mode. Results were compared with the more traditional but limited direct incorporation technique to measure synthesis.

RESULTS

The model-derived skin protein synthesis rate was 0.34%/hr +/- 0.04%/hr, which was almost identical to the value of 0.30%/hr +/- 0.01%/hr determined by the direct incorporation method. The model-derived skin protein breakdown rate was only slightly higher than the synthesis rate, meaning protein balance was generally maintained in the fasted state because of the efficient reuse of amino acids from protein breakdown.

CONCLUSIONS

The newly described rabbit ear model is a reliable approach to the determination of the amino acid and protein kinetics in the skin in vivo. Efficient reuse of amino acids released from proteolysis explains the maintenance of skin integrity during brief fasting.

Fetal growth retardation in rats may result from apoptosis: role of peroxynitrite

Administration of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) results in fetal growth retardation. This study was designed to further examine the influence of NO on fetal growth, specifically, the potential role of inducible NOS and to evaluate the possibility that apoptosis contributed to uteroplacental dysfunction. L-NAME administration caused a paradoxical increase in NO synthesis determined by direct detection of NO by electrochemistry, nitrite accumulation, and cGMP levels, indicating that a lack of NO was not the cause of the fetal growth retardation. Additionally, supplemental L-arginine or NO donors failed to reverse the effects of L-NAME on fetal and placental size. Administration of low dose endotoxin (30 micrograms/kg IP daily for 6 d) also caused significant reductions in fetal and placental size and increased NO synthesis comparable to that seen with L-NAME. Inducible NOS was constitutively expressed in the pregnant uterus (smooth muscle and epithelia) and placenta (sinusoids and macrophages) but was absent in the nonpregnant state as determined by RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. Neither L-NAME nor endotoxin modified the expression of iNOS. In situ evidence for apoptosis (DNA fragmentation) was minimal to absent in control pregnant rats, but markedly evident in the placenta (decidua) and uterus of rats treated with L-NAME or endotoxin. Immunohistochemical evidence for nitrotyrosine, a marker for peroxynitrite formation, was absent in control rats but colocalized with apoptosis in the L-NAME and LPS groups. We conclude that L-NAME-induced fetal growth retardation is not due to a lack of NO, but as for endotoxin, results from a net reduction in cellular proliferation due to the induction of apoptosis, possibly in response to peroxynitrite formation.

Infusion of labeled KIC is more accurate than labeled leucine to determine human muscle protein synthesis

The leucine constant infusion method is the most commonly used method for measuring fractional synthetic rates (FSR) of muscle protein. However, this method has been criticized because of the uncertainty involved in measuring precursor pool enrichment. We present an alternative method for measuring muscle FSR by giving a constant infusion of alpha-[1-13C]ketoisocaproate (alpha-[1-13C]KIC). We infused alpha-[1-13C]KIC and [5,5,5-2H3]leucine for 4 h in five volunteers and took plasma samples half-hourly and muscle biopsies at 1 and 4 h of isotope infusion. When KIC was infused, intramuscular free leucine enrichment was the same as arterial leucine enrichment. However, when labeled leucine was infused, intramuscular free leucine enrichment was only 76 +/- 3% of arterial KIC enrichment, which agrees with previous reports that plasma KIC enrichment does not accurately reflect intramuscular leucine enrichment. We obtained an FSR of 2.25 +/- 0.12%/day by use of this method, which agrees with a previous report using tRNA bound leucine as the precursor. In conclusion, the KIC infusion method overcomes the theoretical limitations of the leucine infusion.

Erythromycin as a specific substrate for cytochrome P4503A isozymes and identification of a high-affinity erythromycin N-demethylase in adult female rats

Erythromycin N-demethylation is catalyzed by cytochrome P4503A isozymes. By using [14C]methyl-labeled erythromycin, we were able to develop a N-demethylation assay that is more sensitive and specific than the colorimetric detection of formaldehyde formation. The increased sensitivity allows the use of very low substrate concentration with good sensitivity, 1 microM compared with 400 microM for the colorimetric assay. This 1 microM concentration is within pharmacological blood levels of erythromycin. Using this assay, we detected a high-affinity erythromycin N-demethylase in liver microsomes from untreated adult female rats that was previously unknown. This low KM activity could be inhibited by polyclonal anti-P4503A1 or P4503A2 antibodies to 95%, and these antibodies also detected a band in these microsomes on Western blots that had the same molecular weight (51 kDa) as cytochromes P4503A1/3A2. Monoclonal antibodies specific for P4503A1 or P4503A2, however, did not react with this band. No inhibitory effect was observed with monoclonal antibody P124, which inhibited the erythromycin N-demethylation both in liver microsomes from untreated adult males (P4503A2) and dexamethasone-pretreated adult females (P4503A1). Alternative P4503A substrates (testosterone, troleandomycin, cortisol, corticosterone, cyclosporin A, and 17 alpha-ethinylestradiol) inhibited erythromycin N-demethylation catalyzed by liver microsomes from untreated male, untreated female, and dexamethasone-pretreated female rats, whereas digitoxin and theophylline had no inhibitory effects. Put together, these data suggest that this demethylase in liver microsomes of untreated female rats is not P4503A1 or P4503A2, but P4503A related.

Differential regulation of cytochrome P450 3A1 and P450 3A2 in rat liver following dexamethasone treatment

Induction of P450 3A1 and P450 3A2 was studied in adult rat liver following treatment with a single high dose of dexamethasone (DEX). The increase of both P450 3A1 and 3A2 occurred at the level of mRNA as well as protein. P450 3A isozymes thus induced were catalytically active. No constitutive expression of P450 3A1 mRNA or protein was observed in males or females. Constitutive expression of P450 3A2 mRNA and protein was observed in males but not in females. Additionally, in females, P450 3A2 was almost nondetectable compared to that in males, at any dose of DEX. A time course study following DEX treatment showed that P450 3A1 mRNA and protein were detectable in both sexes at 12 hours, increased until 48 hours, and then declined. The decline was more rapid in males. P450 3A2 mRNA and protein increased as early as 3 hours, increased further up to 48 hours, and slowly declined thereafter. A dose-response study indicated that P450 3A1 mRNA and protein progressively increased in both sexes from a dose of 30 mg/kg. In contrast, P450 3A2 mRNA and protein in males did not increase up to a dose of 30 mg/kg but increased at higher doses. Total P450 content and P450 3A catalytic activity were also found to increase with time and dose.

Relationship between fatty acid delivery and fatty acid oxidation during strenuous exercise

To evaluate the extent to which decreased plasma free fatty acid (FFA) concentration contributes to the relatively low rates of fat oxidation during high-intensity exercise, we studied FFA metabolism in six endurance-trained cyclists during 20-30 min of exercise [85% of maximal O2 uptake (VO2max)]. They were studied on two occasions: once during a control trial when plasma FFA concentration is normally low and again when plasma FFA concentration was maintained between 1 and 2 mM by intravenous infusion of lipid (Intralipid) and heparin. During the 20-30 min of exercise, fat and carbohydrate oxidation were measured by indirect calorimetry, and the rates of appearance (Ra) of plasma FFA and glucose were determined by the constant infusion of [6,6-2H2]glucose and [2H2]palmitate. Lipid-heparin infusion did not influence the Ra or rate of disappearance of glucose. During exercise in the control trial, Ra FFA failed to increase above resting levels (11.0 +/- 1.2 and 12.4 +/- 1.7 mumol.kg-1.min-1 for rest and exercise, respectively) and plasma FFA concentration dropped from a resting value of 0.53 +/- 0.08 to 0.29 +/- 0.02 mM. The restoration of plasma FFA concentration resulted in a 27% increase in total fat oxidation (26.7 +/- 2.6 vs. 34.0 +/- 4.4 mumol.kg-1.min-1, P < 0.05) with a concomitant reduction in carbohydrate oxidation, apparently due to a 15% (P < 0.05) reduction in muscle glycogen utilization. However, the elevation of plasma FFA concentration during exercise at 85% VO2max only partially restored fat oxidation compared with the levels observed during exercise at 65% VO2max. These findings indicate that fat oxidation is normally impaired during exercise at 85% VO2max because of the failure of FFA mobilization to increase above resting levels, but this explains only part of the decline in fat oxidation when exercise intensity is increased from 65 to 85% VO2max.

[Platelet factor 4 acts as both inhibitor and protector of hematopoietic precursor cells: possible mechanism of action]

We have previously shown that platelet factor 4 (PF 4) is a potent inhibitor of megakaryocytopoiesis and that it may protect stem cells from 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) cytotoxicity. In the present work, the effects of human PF 4 on megakaryocyte (MK) growth from human CD34+ cord blood (CB) cells were studied in comparison with transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1). Development of MK from CD34+ cells in both plasma clot culture and liquid culture was significantly inhibited by PF 4 (5 micrograms/ml) and TGF beta 1 (1 ng/ml). Inhibition of cell growth by PF 4 was reversible judging from the fact that the CD34+ cells preincubated with PF 4 could regenerate colonies after washing and replating into the cultures. By contrast, TGF-beta 1 pretreated CD34+ cells gave rise to few colonies following replating. Moreover, incubation of CD34+ cells with PF 4 in liquid culture caused an increase in the number of both stem cell factor (SCF)-binding cells and CD34 antigen-bearing cells, and exhibited greater capacity to form MK colonies than control after the treatment of 5-FU. In vivo in mice, twice injections of PF 4 at 40 micrograms/kg with an interval of 6 h followed by one injection of 5-FU at 150 mg/kg resulted in a significant increase in the number of colony-forming cells with high proliferative potential (HPP-CFC) and colony-forming unit-megakaryocyte (CFU-MK) in bone marrow. In exponentially growing human erythroleukemia cells (HEL), the addition of PF 4 prolonged cell cycle progression and therefore resulted in an increased cell population in S phase, as determined by flow cytometric analysis. Different from PF 4, TGF-beta 1 blocked more cells in G 1 phase. These results demonstrate that PF 4 and TFG-beta 1 inhibit MK development from CD34+ CB cells by different mechanisms and suggest that PF 4, unlike TGF-beta 1, exerts its inhibitory effect on cell growth in a reversible and S phasespecific manner by which it protects stem cells and MK progenitor cells from 5-FU cytotoxicity.

Induction of "male-specific" cytochrome P450 isozymes in female rats by oxandrolone

Oxandrolone (OXA) (5 alpha-androstan-2-oxa-17 alpha-methyl-17 beta-ol-3-one) is a clinically useful, synthetic, anabolic androgen steroid hormone. OXA was administered to rats orally twice daily for 3 days at 75 mg/kg to study the effect on hepatic cytochrome P450 (P450) isozymes. Western blots were performed on the hepatic microsomal fraction and probed with isozyme-specific monoclonal antibodies. Microsomes were also tested for catalytic activity in a testosterone metabolism assay. Data from Western blots revealed that, in female rats, there were increased levels of two male-specific isozymes, P4502C11 and P4503A2, as well as P4503A1. In contrast, male rats showed little or no change in expression of these P450 isozymes after OXA treatment. The 6 beta-hydroxylation of testosterone, which is catalyzed predominantly by P4503A1 and P4503A2, increased approximately 10-fold in female rats after treatment with OXA (from 0.05 +/- 0.01 to 0.52 +/- 0.05 nmol/min/mg protein), but only relatively small changes were seen in the male rats (from 1.02 +/- 0.05 to 1.38 +/- 0.07 nmol/min/mg protein). To investigate if the changes seen in P4503A1 and P4503A2 protein and activity were caused, at least in part, by an increase in mRNA levels, Northern blot analysis was performed. P4503A2 mRNA was increased dramatically in the female rat liver after OXA treatment, but only small increases in P4503A1 mRNA were seen. This data indicate that OXA induces P450 isozymes in the female but not in the male rat liver, probably through transcriptional activation, and some of these induced isozymes are male-specific.

Role of inducible nitric oxide synthase expression and peroxynitrite formation in guinea pig ileitis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Inflammatory bowel disease is characterized by increased synthesis of nitric oxide. The aim of this study was to determine if inducible NO synthase (iNOS) was responsible for tissue injury, potentially via peroxynitrite formation, in the guinea pig model of gut inflammation.

METHODS

Inflammation was induced in guinea pig ileum by intraluminal administration of the hapten trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid in 50% ethanol. iNOS gene expression was assessed by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting, immunohistochemistry was determined by its localization, and activity was inhibited with the specific inhibitor aminoguanidine administered via the drinking water for 7 days. Nitration of tyrosines was assessed by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

In control animals, iNOS gene expression was minimal to absent, whereas, in hapten, inflammation-marked iNOS gene expression was evident from day 1 to 7. Nitrotyrosine and iNOS immunohistochemistry were colocalized, and positive staining was most intense in epithelia and neurons. Inhibition of NO formation prevented nitrotyrosine formation. Aminoguanidine inhibited the inflammatory response and restored morphology.

CONCLUSIONS

The colocalization of tyrosine nitration with iNOS immunoreactivity suggests that iNOS may be responsible for tissue injury and the formation of NO-dependent nitrating species, potentially peroxynitrite. Inhibition of iNOS may afford a new therapeutic approach to the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease.

Increased plasma glucose clearance in sepsis is due to increased exchange between plasma and interstitial fluid

It has long been unclear why plasma glucose clearance is increased during sepsis, an insulin-resistant state. To address this issue, we studied sheep given a constant infusion of endotoxin for at least 24 h (n = 5). We gave a bolus of 6,6 d2 glucose and determined the fractional exchange of glucose between plasma and interstitial fluid using compartmental modeling techniques. We found that exchange of glucose between plasma and interstitial fluid was significantly increased in sepsis, but the fractional clearance of glucose from interstitial fluid was not significantly altered. Thus the observed increased plasma glucose clearance was solely due to alterations in glucose exchange between plasma and interstitial fluid and was unrelated to glucose transport into cells.

Perinatal nitric oxide synthase inhibition retards neonatal growth by inducing hypertrophic pyloric stenosis in rats

Administration of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor, NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) during pregnancy has been shown to compromise fetal growth. This study was designed to determine whether aminoguanidine, a predominate inhibitor of inducible NOS, affects fetal outcome. In addition, we extended the prenatal administration of L-NAME into the postnatal period (14 d) to determine whether neonatal growth and maturation were also affected. L-NAME, but not aminoguanidine, compromises fetal and placental growth. When compared with control 14-d-old pups, postnatal L-NAME compromised neonatal growth, whether it was given directly (intraperitoneally) (39.7 +/- 1.1 versus 24.1 +/- 1.0 g) or indirectly (38.6 +/- 0.5 versus 22.2 +/- 1.2 g) via maternal breast milk. Neonatal growth retardation was asymmetric, with brain sparing, suggesting a nutritional origin. L-NAME administration resulted in growth retardation that extended into adulthood, without evidence of catch-up growth. Treated neonates displayed the hallmarks of hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. Significant increases in stomach weight/pup weight (9.9 +/- 0.3 versus 8.2 +/- 0.4 x 10(3)) and stomach volume/pup weight (12.0 +/- 0.6 versus 9.4 +/- 0.6 mL/100 g) with a concomitant decrease in small intestine weight/length (2.10 +/- 0.08 versus 3.18 +/- 0.13 g/100 cm) was noted in treated versus control pups (p < 0.05). Muscularis hypertrophy at the pyloric sphincter in the L-NAME-treated pups was noted by histology. Blood pressure was elevated in the L-NAME-treated pups (93 +/- 6 versus 60 +/- 5 mm Hg in control pups, p < 0.05). These findings are consistent with inhibition of neuronal and endothelial NOS activity. We conclude that NO, formed via the constitutive isoforms of NOS, is a critical determinant of fetal and neonatal growth and maturation.

Enhancement of protein stability by the combination of point mutations in T4 lysozyme is additive

A number of mutations have been shown previously to stabilize T4 lysozyme. By combining up to seven such mutations in the same protein, the melting temperature was incrementally increased by up to 8.3 degrees C at pH 5.4 (delta delta G = 3.6 kcal/mol). This shows that it is possible to engineer a protein of enhanced thermostability by combining a series of rationally designed point mutations. It is also shown that this stabilization is achieved with only minor, localized changes in the structure of the protein. This is consistent with the observation that the change in stability of each of the multiple mutants is, in each case, additive, i.e. equal to the sum of the stability changes associated with the constituent single mutants. One of the seven substitutions, Asn116-->Asp, changes a residue that participates in substrate binding; not surprisingly, it causes a significant loss in activity. Ignoring this mutation, there is a gradual reduction in activity as successively more mutations are combined.

Protein flexibility and adaptability seen in 25 crystal forms of T4 lysozyme

The structures of various mutants of T4 lysozyme have been determined in 25 non-isomorphous crystal forms. This provides an unusually diverse data base to compare the structures and dynamics of a closely related set of proteins in different crystal packing environments. In general, the more tightly packed crystals diffract better than those that are highly hydrated although the wild-type crystal form is an exception. The ability of the protein to form a relatively open but stable lattice may help explain why many of the mutants crystallize in this form. In different crystalline environments, the lysozyme molecules associate with 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold, and 5-fold symmetry, as well as with various types of screw associations. A "back-to-back" dimeric association, and a "head-to-tail" 2(1) screw association, are especially common, each occurring in more than half a dozen crystal forms. The 4-fold and 5-fold modes of association are closely related and provide an example of quasi-equivalent association as envisaged by Caspar and Klug. In different crystal environments the lysozyme molecules display a range of over 50 degrees in the hinge-bending angle between the amino and carboxy-terminal domains. Large variations in the hinge-bending angle are observed not only for lysozymes with mutations in the hinge region, but for molecules with mutations far from this site. This suggests that hinge-bending is an intrinsic property of the lysozyme molecule and is not an artifact due to mutation. As the hinge-bending angle increases about 15 degrees beyond that seen in wild-type there is a distinct conformations change in the side-chains of five residues in the hinge-bending region. Changes in the backbone are localized near residues 13, 59 and 80, but do not include significant changes in (phi, psi). Comparison of the different structures indicates that crystal contacts perturb the backbone structure of the protein by 0.2 to 0.5 A. These perturbations are of the same magnitude for helices and beta-sheet strands, suggesting that protein structures can be defined and maintained equally well by hydrogen-bonding (i.e. strand-strand) or by non-hydrogen-bonding (i.e. helix-helix) interactions. The discrepancies between the lysozyme structures in different crystallographic environments are in line with other comparisons of independently determined protein crystal structures. They suggest that protein structures in general are subject to low energy changes in conformation of 0.2 to 0.5 A.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Signal transduction pathway of acylation stimulating protein: involvement of protein kinase C

Acylation Stimulating Protein (ASP) was recently purified to homogeneity from human plasma and shown to be identical to C3adesArg. ASP stimulates triglycerides synthesis in human skin fibroblasts and primary human adipocytes. In vitro differentiation of human preadipocytes to mature fat cells results in increased expression and accumulation of ASP in the medium. These differentiated human adipocytes are also much more responsive to ASP than preadipocytes. The object of this study was to investigate the signal transduction pathway by which ASP causes triglyceride synthesis (TGS) to increase in human cultured fibroblasts and adipocytes. No evidence was found for a protein kinase A-mediated response. ASP action was consistent with a protein kinase C (PKC)-mediated pathway in that: 1) the effect of ASP on TGS was mimicked by 1-10 nM phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), a potent activator of PKC; (202% ASP vs. 178% PMA stimulation); 2) the effect of PMA and ASP were non-additive with respect to TGS; 3) staurosporine (50 nM) and GF109203X (bisindolymaleimide) at 1 microM, both competitive inhibitors of the ATP-binding site on PKC, inhibited both ASP and PMA stimulation of TGS (-59% and -65% for ASP and -84% and -99% for PMA, respectively); 4) Calphostin C (0.8 microM) which interacts with the regulatory domain of PKC also inhibited the ASP- and PMA-mediated stimulation of PKC (-76% +/- 11% inhibition for ASP and -99% +/- 20% inhibition for PMA), although in all cases the inhibition of PMA-stimulated triglyceride synthesis was greater; 5) ASP caused a time-dependent increase in intracellular diacylglycerol accumulation; and finally 6) stimulation by ASP caused an increase in PKC activity and a time-dependent translocation of PKC (maximal effect at 30 min) from the soluble intracellular compartment to a membrane-bound fraction (basal activity 22% in the membrane-bound fraction, ASP 54%, P < 0.05 and PMA 69% P < 0.0025). Taken together, the data are consistent with the conclusion that ASP acts to stimulate triglyceride synthesis via activation of the protein kinase C pathway.

Role of membrane transport in interorgan amino acid flow between muscle and small intestine

In the fasting state, amino acids are released from the periphery to be used in splanchnic tissues. To understand the mechanism of such interorgan substrate exchange at the tissue level, we have determined the relationships between inward and outward amino acid transport and intracellular amino acid kinetics in the small intestine and skeletal muscle of postabsorptive anesthetized dogs. In the gut, amino acids appearing intracellularly (from inward transport, protein degradation, and absorption from the lumen) were used for protein synthesis more efficiently (P < .05) than in muscle (phenylalanine, 55% +/- 5% v 13% +/- 3%; lysine, 70% +/- 7% v 28% +/- 3%). In contrast, in muscle, amino acids appearing intracellularly (from inward transport and protein degradation) were preferentially (P < .05) released into the bloodstream, as opposed to being incorporated into protein (phenylalanine, 87% +/- 4%; lysine, 72% +/- 3%). Inward transport accounted for a greater (P < .05) proportion of total intracellular amino acid appearance in the gut than in muscle (leucine, 63% +/- 3% v 37 +/- 3%; valine, 75% +/- 5% v 53% +/- 3%; phenylalanine, 66% +/- 1% v 50% +/- 4%; lysine, 52% +/- 2% v 31% +/- 2%). We conclude that differences in transmembrane amino acid transport kinetics in both the inward and outward directions contribute to the net flow of amino acids from the muscle to the gut in the fasting state.

Insulin-like growth factor-I and insulin reduce leucine flux and oxidation in conscious tumor necrosis factor-infused dogs

BACKGROUND

We have tested the hypothesis that insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) or insulin can prevent the protein catabolic effects of tumor necrosis factor (TNF).

METHODS

After a 2-hour basal period TNF was infused (prime, 2.5 micrograms.kg-1; constant, 31.25 ng.kg-1.min-1) for 4 hours into conscious dogs to create the catabolic state. After 2 hours of TNF infusion either recombinant human IGF-I (n = 5) or recombinant human insulin (n = 5) was infused for an additional 2 hours. A third group (n = 5) received TNF alone for 4 hours.

RESULTS

TNF infusion caused an increase in both glucose production, reflected by [6,6-d2]glucose tracer data, and net protein catabolism, reflected by both [1-13C]leucine and [15N2]urea tracer methods. IGF-I and insulin both significantly reduced the rates of appearance of leucine and leucine oxidation to a similar extent, resulting in the significant decrease in net protein catabolism.

CONCLUSIONS

IGF-I and insulin can ameliorate the catabolic effects of TNF on protein and glucose metabolism equally effectively, although more IGF-I is required on a molar basis.

Potential role of nitric oxide in a model of chronic colitis in rhesus macaques

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Excess nitric oxide formation, via the inducible NO synthase isoform, has been implicated in the pathogenesis of experimental and clinical inflammatory bowel disease. The aim of this study was to assess the site, enzyme source, and magnitude of NO production in juvenile rhesus macaques with idiopathic colitis.

METHODS

NO production was assessed systemically from plasma and urine levels of reactive nitrogen intermediates and locally by the formation of [3H]citrulline from [3H]arginine and reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) diaphorase histochemistry. Inducible NO synthase gene expression was assessed by reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Plasma and urine levels of reactive nitrogen intermediates were greater in colitic animals than in control monkeys by 13- and 5-fold, respectively. NADPH diaphorase activity in normal animals was confined to the myenteric plexus. In colitis, staining was also apparent in crypt abscesses and superficial epithelial and mucosal bands. Gene expression for inducible NO synthase was only found in colitic specimens. Colonic [3H]citrulline formation was markedly elevated in colitic specimens, and the inducible isoform accounted for 58% of total activity.

CONCLUSIONS

It is proposed that excess NO, formed via the inducible form of NO synthase, contributes to the mucosal inflammation and symptoms of this idiopathic colitis model.

Glycerol gluconeogenesis in fasting humans

The contribution of glycerol to glucose production has been measured in healthy volunteers by the simultaneous primed constant infusion of 1-[13C]glycerol and 3-[3H]glucose and the determination of the rates of appearance (Ra) of glycerol, glucose, and glycerol-derived glucose. In the postabsorptive state, glycerol Ra was 3.11 +/- 0.44 mumol.kg-1.min-1, of which 36% was converted to glucose, accounting for 4.5% of total glucose production. After 62-86 h of starvation, glycerol Ra rose to 5.32 +/- 0.58 mumol.kg-1.min-1, and 68% of glycerol was converted to glucose. This accounted for 21.6% of total glucose production. Glycerol Ra was closely correlated with its conversion and contribution to glucose. These findings confirm that the contribution of glycerol to glucose production is directly correlated to its release as a consequence of lipolysis and support the notion that the central physiological role of accelerated lipolysis in fasting is the provision of gluconeogenic precursor.

Soil-transmitted helminthiases: nationwide survey in China

A total of 2848 study sites, with about 500 people in each, were randomly sampled for this investigation which covered a total population of 1 477 742. By stool examinations using the Kato-Katz thick-smear and larval-culture techniques, overall prevalences of 47.0%, 18.8%, and 17.2% were obtained for Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, and hookworm infections, respectively. The number of infections due to Ascaris, Trichuris, and hookworm was estimated as 531 million, 212 million, and 194 million, respectively. Egg counts showed that 75-95% of the subjects had light infections. Higher prevalences of ascariasis and trichuriasis were found in the age group of 5-9, 10-14 and 15-19 years, and among adults for hookworm. Students, farmers (including vegetable growers) and fishermen were the occupational groups with high infection rates. The prevalence of helminthiases was found to be closely associated with climatic and geographical factors. In view of the morbidity and mortality due to these helminthiases, their control, particularly in schoolchildren, is very important.

Nitric oxide inhibition causes intrauterine growth retardation and hind-limb disruptions in rats

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to determine the effects of nitric oxide synthase inhibition on maternal and fetal health in the last third of pregnancy.

STUDY DESIGN

Pregnant rats were treated from gestational day 13 to day 19 or 20 with the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, which was administered in the drinking water ad libitum. Control animals received the inactive enantiomer NG-nitro-D-arginine methyl ester or no treatment. Maternal blood pressure, blood chemistry studies, and placenta and pup size were determined. A separate group of rats received nitroprusside sodium in conjunction with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester.

RESULTS

NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester caused a dose-dependent reduction in placenta and pup size. Amniotic fluid levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate were significantly reduced at 0.1 mg/ml but not at higher doses. Hemorrhagic necrosis of fetal hind limbs occurred only with treatment with NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester and was prevented by coadministration of nitroprusside sodium. Maternal blood pressure and blood and urine chemistry studies were unaffected by NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester.

CONCLUSION

Chronic reductions of nitric oxide production in the last third of pregnancy result in significant intrauterine growth retardation and hemorrhagic disruptions of hind limbs. Maternal complications were minimal and did not mimic preeclampsia.

Protein synthesis and breakdown in skin and muscle: a leg model of amino acid kinetics

In the postabsorptive state, amino acids are released from the periphery to provide precursors for protein synthesis in the splanchnic organs. To evaluate the differential role of the most important peripheral tissues, i.e., skin and muscle, in the interorgan amino acid exchange, we have developed a model to simultaneously measure the rates of protein synthesis and degradation in these tissues. Anesthetized dogs were studied using the arteriovenous catheterization of the leg in combination with muscle and skin biopsies. L-[alpha-15N]lysine and L-[ring-2H5]phenylalanine were infused as independent markers of both skin and muscle protein kinetics. Model structure described leg skin and muscle as tissues arranged in parallel and accounted for blood flow distribution. Lysine data show that, in the postabsorptive state, the fractional rate (%/h) of skin protein synthesis (0.543 +/- 0.218) was comparable to the fractional rate of degradation (0.507 +/- 0.157), whereas, in muscle, degradation (0.454 +/- 0.116) was greater (P < 0.05) than synthesis (0.318 +/- 0.109). Similar conclusions were apparent from the phenylalanine data. Skin protein synthesis and degradation accounted for approximately 10-15% of the total leg protein kinetics.

[Protective effect of somatostatin against stress injury of gastric mucosa may be related to the scavenge of free radicals]

In the present study, it was observed that somatostatin could significantly protect rat gastric mucosa from injury induced by cold-restraint stress and inhibit the stress induced increase of malonaldehyde (MDA) content. In the gastric mucosa of stress rats, the xanthine oxidase (XO) activity were increased and the glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity were decreased respectively, while the superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity showed no change. After pretreatment with somatostatin, the decrease of GSH-Px activity was significantly reversed, whereas XO and SOD activities were not significantly affected. The above results show that the protective effect of somatostatin against the stress-induced injury of gastric mucosa may be related to an enhancement of the ability of gastric mucosa to scavenge oxygen-derived free radicals.

Measurement of pyruvate and lactate kinetics across the hindlimb and gut of anesthetized dogs

We have developed a new model to quantify regional pyruvate and lactate transmembrane transport, shunting, exchange, production, and oxidation in vivo. The method is based on the systemic continuous infusion of pyruvate or lactate stable isotopic carbon tracers and the measurement of pyruvate and lactate enrichment and concentration in the artery and vein of that region (e.g., leg or gut), the pyruvate and lactate enrichment of intracellular free water in the tissue as measured by biopsy, and the rate of blood flow through the tissue. The purpose of the experiment was to measure the pyruvate and lactate kinetics in leg muscle and gut in anesthetized dogs (n = 6). The transmembrane transport and degree of shunting of pyruvate and lactate were comparable in muscle and gut. When modified for substrate inflow, interconversion between pyruvate and lactate took place at a rate twice as fast in muscle as in the gut, and production and oxidation of pyruvate was approximately 50% greater in muscle than in the gut. Thus our new model enables quantitation of many aspects of lactate and pyruvate kinetics. We conclude that in anesthetized animals the muscle is the tissue most responsible for whole body peripheral pyruvate and lactate kinetics.

Conservation of solvent-binding sites in 10 crystal forms of T4 lysozyme

Solvent-binding sites were compared in 10 different crystal forms of phage T4 lysozyme that were refined using data from 2.6 A to 1.7 A resolution. The sample included 18 crystallographically independent lysozyme molecules. Despite different crystallization conditions, variable crystal contacts, changes due to mutation, and varying attention to solvent during crystallographic refinement, 62% of the 20 most frequently occupied sites were conserved. Allowing for potential steric interference from neighboring molecules in the crystal lattice, this fraction increased to 79% of the sites. There was, however, no solvent-binding site that was occupied in all 18 lysozyme molecules. A buried double site was occupied in 17 instances and 2 other internal sites were occupied 15 times. Apart from these buried sites, the most frequently occupied sites were often at the amino-termini of alpha-helices. Solvent molecules at the most conserved sites tended to have crystallographic thermal factors lower than average, but atoms with low B-factors were not restricted to these sites. Although superficial inspection may suggest that only 50-60% (or less) of solvent-binding sites are conserved in different crystal forms of a protein, it appears that many sites appear to be empty either because of steric interference or because the apparent occupancy of a given site can vary from crystal to crystal. The X-ray method of identifying sites is somewhat subjective and tends to result in specification only of those solvent molecules that are well ordered and bound with high occupancy, even though there is clear evidence for solvent bound at many additional sites.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Three-dimensional structure of beta-galactosidase from E. coli

The beta-galactosidase from Escherichia coli was instrumental in the development of the operon model, and today is one of the most commonly used enzymes in molecular biology. Here we report the structure of this protein and show that it is a tetramer with 222-point symmetry. The 1,023-amino-acid polypeptide chain folds into five sequential domains, with an extended segment at the amino terminus. The participation of this amino-terminal segment in a subunit interface, coupled with the observation that each active site is made up of elements from two different subunits, provides a structural rationale for the phenomenon of alpha-complementation. The structure represents the longest polypeptide chain for which an atomic structure has been determined. Our results show that it is possible successfully to study non-viral protein crystals with unit cell dimensions in excess of 500 A and with relative molecular masses in the region of 2,000K per asymmetric unit. Non-crystallographic symmetry averaging proved to be a very powerful tool in the structure determination, as has been shown in other contexts.

Effect of tumor necrosis factor on substrate and amino acid kinetics in conscious dogs

Two groups of conscious dogs were studied using isotopic tracer techniques to test the hypothesis that tumor necrosis factor (TNF) affects glucose production, lipolysis, amino acid, and protein kinetics. [1-13C]leucine, [15N2]urea, [6,6-2H2]glucose, and [2H5]glycerol were infused to determine the leucine, urea, glucose, and lipid kinetics, and NaH14CO3 was infused to determine the rate of CO2 production. In one group, after a 2-h basal period (period 1), recombinant human TNF was infused (prime, 2.5 micrograms/kg; constant, 62.5 ng.kg-1.min-1) for 2 h (period 2; group 1, n = 15). Group 2 received saline rather than TNF in period 2 (n = 3). TNF infusion caused a significant increase in endogenous glucose production, a significant increase in glucose clearance rate, and a decrease in glycerol flux. Although TNF infusion did not change leucine flux, leucine oxidation increased by 49% (P < 0.0001), and nonoxidative leucine disappearance decreased during TNF infusion by 13% (P < 0.0001). TNF infusion also caused a significant increase (18%) in endogenous urea production. TNF significantly increased plasma glucagon concentration. We conclude that TNF causes a shift toward carbohydrate metabolism and stimulates the oxidation of amino acids. Whereas whole body protein breakdown is not affected by TNF, protein synthesis is impaired, leading to an increase in net protein breakdown.

Inhibition of calcium-dependent nitric oxide synthase causes ileitis and leukocytosis in guinea pigs

As nitric oxide reduces gut epithelial permeability, we designed a study to determine if chronic nitric oxide synthase inhibition predisposes the gut to inflammation. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors were administered in the drinking water ad libitum, for seven days: aminoguanidine (10 micrograms/ml), a selective inhibitor of the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase; and NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 1, 10, and 100 micrograms/ml), which inhibits both the constitutive and inducible forms. Control animals drank tap water only or water with D-NAME, the inactive enantiomer. After one week, circulating leukocyte count and tissue myeloperoxidase activity were measured. L-NAME (100 micrograms/ml), but not D-NAME or aminoguanidine, caused a twofold increase in a circulating leukocyte numbers. This increase in leukocyte numbers was time- and dose-dependent, but the differential count was unaltered. Tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity as an index of granulocyte infiltration was comparable in all groups in the stomach, jejunum, colon, liver, lung, kidney, heart, and skeletal muscle. However, ileal MPO activity was elevated threefold in the L-NAME-(100 micrograms/ml) treated group (P < 0.05). Results in the D-NAME and aminoguanidine groups were similar to controls. L-NAME administration resulted in a reduction in NOS activity ([14C]citrulline formation) in the ileum but not jejunum, whereas cGMP levels were elevated in both ileum and jejunum. We conclude that chronic inhibition of the constitutive form of nitric oxide synthase predisposes the ileum to inflammation and leads to a progressive leukocytosis.

Effect of hepatectomy on glucose metabolism in the dog

The response of whole-body glucose uptake and oxidation and hindlimb glucose and lactate balance was investigated using the hyperinsulinemic, euglycemic clamp in 12 sham-operated control dogs and 10 hepatectomized dogs. A combination of radioactive (NaH14CO3) and stable (U-13C-glucose) isotope tracers was used to quantify glucose kinetics and oxidation. The insulin concentration was increased to approximately 5,000 microU/mL. Mean glucose uptake rates across the hindlimb were similar, 7.72 and 8.06 mumol.kg-1.min-1 for hepatectomy and sham-operated groups, respectively. Lactate release across the hindlimb also showed no significant differences between the two groups. Therefore, it was concluded that the liver did not affect peripheral glucose uptake in response to supramaximal insulin infusion under these experimental conditions. On the other hand, the mean glucose infusion rate during the last 60 minutes of the insulin clamp in the hepatectomy group was significantly decreased compared with that in the sham-operated group, 57.11 versus 46.29 mumol.kg-1.min-1, respectively (P < .05). Consequently, the maximal capacity of the liver of the anesthetized dog to clear glucose in response to supramaximal insulin infusion appears to be approximately 10.8 mumol.kg-1.min-1, which is about 20% of the total glucose infused. Isotopic data showed that most hepatic glucose uptake was oxidized. In contrast, most peripheral glucose uptake appeared to be stored as glycogen.

[Cytoprotective effect of neurotensin on acetaminophen induced liver injury in relation to glutathione system]

In the present work the cytoprotective effect of neurotensin (NT) on acetaminophen induced injury to the liver or cultured hepatocytes of mouse in relation to glutathione system were investigated. The results were as follows: Pretreatment with NT significantly reduced the leakages of transaminases induced by acetaminophen in vivo or in cultured hepatocytes and partially reversed the decline of DNA synthesis induced by acetaminophen in cultured hepatocytes. After administration of acetaminophen to cultured hepatocytes, the contents of reduced glutathione (GSH) and total glutathione decreased, the activity of glutathione peroxydase (GSH-Px) decreased, but the contents of oxidized glutathione (GSSG) showed no change. Pretreatment with NT before acetaminophen decreased the contents of GSH further but increased the contents of GSSG and total glutathione and enhanced the activity of GSH-Px. These results indicated that NT may enhance synthesis of glutathione and the ability for hepatocytes to scavenge free radicals by increasing the activity of GSH-Px accompanied by oxidation of GSH to GSSG.

Accommodation of amino acid insertions in an alpha-helix of T4 lysozyme. Structural and thermodynamic analysis

One to four alanines were inserted by site-directed mutagenesis at three different locations within the alpha-helix comprising residues 39 to 50 in bacteriophage T4 lysozyme. All insertion mutants were correctly folded and catalytically active although the insertions led to a thermal destabilization by 1.1 to 4.2 kcal/mol when compared to wild-type. Variants that restored part of the loss in stability associated with the initial alanine insertions could be found by randomizing the inserted amino acids. In selected cases, directed mutagenesis of adjacent residues was also used to regain stability. Structural information obtained from X-ray crystallography and/or 2D-NMR for 10 different variants showed two distinct ways in which the protein responded to the amino acid insertions: (1) The inserted amino acids were incorporated into the helix by replacing preceding wild-type amino acids and causing a shift in register towards the N terminus. As a consequence, wild-type amino acids were translocated from the helix into the preceding loop. (2) Insertions caused a "looping out" within the alpha-helix. In this case the perturbation was confined to a minimal region in the immediate vicinity of the insertion. No change in the length of the helix was detected in either case. The structural response appears to be determined by the maintenance of the hydrophobic interface between the helix and the rest of the protein. This interface remains essentially intact in all variant structures. The results exemplify the plasticity and the adaptability of the protein structure which allows the incorporation of additional amino acids into a secondary structure element without large structural perturbations, as long as vital internal interactions are preserved. They also suggest that loops in proteins related by evolution can vary in length not only because of insertions within the loops themselves but also as a consequence of insertions within neighboring secondary structure elements.

[Cytoprotective effect of epidermal growth factor on acetaminophen induced acute injury of hepatocytes]

In the present work, the hepatoprotection of EGF was studied on an acetaminophen induced acute injury model of serum-free primary cultured mouse hepatocytes. The results were as follows: (1) When serum-free cultured mouse hepatocytes were exposed to acetaminophen (AAP 20 mmol/L) for 12-14 h, the activity of GPT and GOT were increased to a stable level, serving as a good hepatocyte injury model. (2) EGF of different doses (50, 100, 500, and 1000 ng/ml) added to the medium prior to acetaminophen could reduce hepatocyte injury in a dose-dependent manner. (3) Taking 3H-TdR incorporation as an index, it was observed that acetaminophen could reduce the DNA synthesis of hepatocytes, and pretreatment with EGF could reverse this effect, but, stimulation of DNA synthesis by EGF was not correlated with its hepatoprotection. Thus the reversion of the reduced DNA synthesis in EGF-pretreated hepatocytes is interpreted as the result rather than the cause of cytoprotection of the factor. (4) The hepatoprotection might be produced through affecting on the glutathione metabolism of hepatocytes.