Beta-globin haplotypes from blood spots for follow-up of newborn hemoglobinopathy screening

The inheritance of sickle-cell anemia upon the background of the major beta-globin gene cluster haplotypes has been associated with differing risks for major organ failure, and more recently with response to hydroxyurea treatment. Early identification of beta-globin haplotypes in individuals with sickle-cell anemia may be a clinically useful prognostic factor for severity of disease expression. This report describes the use of whole-blood spots on filter papers from newborn hemoglobinopathy screening for beta-globin gene cluster haplotyping by the polymerase chain reaction.

Bioactive compounds from Taiwania cryptomerioides

Two new sesquiterpenes, 10 alpha-hydroxyamorphan-4-en-3-one (1) and 4 alpha-methylcadinane-4 alpha-methyl-1 alpha,2 alpha,10 alpha-triol (2), together with four known compounds, sesquiterpenes 10 alpha-hydroxycadinan-4-en-3-one (3) and alpha-cadinol (4), diterpene ferruginol and lignan helioxanthin, were isolated from the whole plant of Taiwania cryptomerioides under bioassay-guided fractionations. The structures of 1 and 2 were elucidated mainly by the NMR spectroscopic analyses. Bioactivities of the isolated compounds against brine shrimp, yellow fever mosquito larvae, and human tumor cells are reported; compound 4 was the most bioactive, showing selectivity for the human colon tumor cell line (HT-29).

[A preliminary study of biochemistry of patients with crystalline retinopathy]

PURPOSE

To investigate the pathogenesis and biochemical changes of crystalline retinopathy by detecting and analyzing the levels of trace elements (Cu++ and Zn++), blood-lipids and free amino acids in the serum of patients.

METHODS

Blood samples of 10 patients with crystalline retinopathy and 30 normal subjects were collected. The levels of serum Cu++ and Zn++ were detected by using flame atomic absorption spectrometry, while cholesterol and triglyceride were detected by direct colordeveloping process and acetyl-acetone developing process respectively and serum amino acids by the Beckman amino acid analyzer.

RESULTS

In comparison with the normal control group, the level of Zinc in serum was much decreased in the crystalline retinopathy group, while Cu++/Zn++ ratio and total cholesterol level in serum were significantly increased. In 3 out of 4 patients the level of taurine is lower than that of control group.

CONCLUSION

The decrease of serum trace elements and taurine and the increase of cholesterol may be one of the important factors for the pathological changes of crystalline retinopathy. The administration of trace elements e. g. Zn++ and taurine might be a new therapy for the patients.

[1354 freshmen's dental investigation]

1354 freshmen have been investigated to discover the relationship between dental diseases and environments,living habits and personal sanitary conditions,because urban young men like sweet foods and snacks,the incidence of caries is greater in the cities than in the country,more people with tetracycline discolored tooth live in urban areas than in the rustic ones,which is due to dense living conditions, vulnerable to respiratory organs disease,medical conditions and convenience of taking tetracycline when ill;on the other hand,gingivitis is more common within the country students than within the city students,for those students from the country are used to brush their tooth after adolescence and usually have more dental calculus which is harmful to the gingiva.More than half of the investigated freshmen are ignorant of correct method of brushing and oral health and that is important factors of high rate of dental disease,according to the above reasons,the effective measures should educated to prevent dental disease.

Regulation of expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in early human T cells of the HSB.2 cultured line by the EP3 subtype of prostaglandin E2 receptor

The expression by T lymphocytes (T cells) of more than one of the functionally distinct subtypes of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) receptors (Rs), designated EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4 Rs, is a principal determinant of specificity and diversity of the immune effects of PGE2. The cultured line of human leukemic T cells, termed HSB.2, co-expresses a total of 7282 +/- 1805 EP3, EP4, and EP2 Rs per cell with a Kd of 3.7 +/- 1.4 nM (mean +/- S.E., n = 9). The EP3/EP1 R-selective agonist sulprostone, EP3/EP2/EP4 R-selective agonists M&B 28767 and misoprostol, and EP2 R-selective agonist butaprost but not the EP1 R-selective antagonist SC-19220 competitively inhibited the binding of [3H]PGE2 to HSB.2 cells. Stimulation of increases in the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP ([cAMP]i) by PGE2, misoprostol, and butaprost and of increases in the intracellular concentration of calcium ([Ca2+]i) by PGE2 and sulprostone demonstrated the respective involvement of EP2/EP4 Rs and EP3 Rs in transduction of biochemical signals. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 was identified by zymography and Western blots as the principal MMP secreted by HSB.2 cells. The cytosolic level and secretion of MMP-9 were increased maximally after 24 h of incubation of HSB.2 cells with 10(-8)-10(-6) M PGE2, sulprostone, M&B 28767, and misoprostol but not with 10(-6) M PGF2alpha, PGD2, PGI2, or butaprost, suggesting a principal dependence on EP3 Rs. That stimulation of MMP-9 secretion by PGE2 was not diminished in Ca2+-free medium but was suppressed significantly and dose-dependently by thapsigargin, an inhibitor of endomembrane Ca2+-ATPase, suggested that MMP-9 expression by HSB.2 cells is mediated by increases in [Ca2+]i attributable to release of Ca2+ from intracellular stores. The lack of effect of dibutyryl cAMP, forskolin, and SQ 22536, an adenylyl cyclase inhibitor, on MMP-9 secretion by HSB.2 cells argued against any role for cAMP-dependent mechanisms linked to EP2/EP4 Rs. Cycloheximide and actinomycin D, which respectively inhibited protein and RNA synthesis, suppressed basal and PGE2 induction of MMP-9 production by HSB.2 cells. Northern analysis indicated that PGE2 and sulprostone time-dependently increased expression of MMP-9 mRNA. Thus, stimulation of MMP-9 in HSB.2 T cells by PGE2 is attributable to [Ca2+]i-dependent EP3 R-mediation of increases in message transcription.

Five new monotetrahydrofuran ring acetogenins from the leaves of Annona muricata

Bioactivity-directed fractionation of the leaves of Annona muricata resulted in the isolation of annopentocins A (1), B (2), and C(3), and cis- and trans-annomuricin-D-ones (4, 5). Compounds 1-3 are the first acetogenins reported bearing a mono-tetrahydrofuran (THF) ring with one flanking hydroxyl, on the hydrocarbon side, and another hydroxyl, on the lactone side, that is one carbon away from the THF ring. Compounds 4 and 5 were obtained in a mixture and are new mono-THF ring acetogenins bearing two flanking hydroxyls and an erythro-diol located between the THF and the ketolactone rings. Compound 1 was selectively cytotoxic to pancreatic carcinoma cells (PACA-2), and 2 and 3 were selectively cytotoxic to lung carcinoma cells (A-549); the mixture of 4 and 5 was selectively cytotoxic for the lung (A-549), colon (HT-29), and pancreatic (PACA-2) cell lines with potencies equal to or exceeding those of Adriamycin.

Three new adjacent bis-tetrahydrofuran acetogenins with four hydroxyl groups from Asimina triloba

Three new adjacent bis-tetrahydrofuran ring Annonaceous acetogenins with four hydroxy groups, bullatetrocin (1), 10-hydroxyasimicin (2), and 10-hydroxytrilobacin (3), were isolated by activity-directed fractionation from the stem bark of Asimina triloba. Their structures were established on the basis of chemical and spectral evidence. The absolute stereochemistry at the C-10 hydroxy position was determined by converting 2 and 3 to their ketolactone isomers, 2,4-cis/trans 10-hydroxyasimicinones and 2,4-cis/trans 10-hydroxytrilobacinones, respectively. The bioactivities of the new compounds against brine shrimp larvae and six human solid-tumor cell lines are reported, and structure-activity relationships between trihydroxylated and tetrahydroxylated acetogenins are discussed. In addition to 1-3, gigantetrocin A, 2,4-cis/trans-gigantetrocin A-ones, annonacin, and annonacin A were also isolated for the first time from this species.

New 19-acetoxyingol diterpenes from the latex of Euphorbia poisonii (Euphorbiaceae)

The poisonous latex of Euphorbia poisonii gave bioactive 3,12-diacetyl-8-nicotinyl-7-phenylacetyl 19-acetoxyingol (1) together with its less active congeners, 3,12-diacetyl-7-phenylacetyl 19-acetoxyingol (2) and 3-acetyl-7-phenylacetyl 19-acetoxyingol (3). The chemical structures of 1-3 were determined by spectroscopic methods including HRMS, DEPT, HETCOR, COSY, NOESY, HMQC and HMBC. The absolute configurations of the hydroxylated carbons in 2 and 3 were provisionally suggested by the Mosher ester method. Bioactivity-guided isolation, structure determination and cytotoxic activity of the new ingols are described.

Band-selective hetero- and homonuclear cross-polarization using trains of shaped pulses

The performance of solution cross-polarization using trains of shaped pulses on two channels is investigated by computer simulation and experiment. It is determined that a Waltz modulation pattern of Gaussian pulses of individual flip angles of 225°, issued to two coupled spins simulatneously, yields excellent coherence transfer with good phasing behavior. Simulations and experimental verification were carried out for both heteronuclear cross-polarization between two restricted areas (e.g. (1)H(α)-(13)C(α)) and for homonuclear cross-polarization between two spectral regions (e.g. (13)CO-(13)C(α)). It is shown that shaped cross-polarization behaves as pure heteronuclear cross-polarization when the two radiofrequency (rf) fields are far apart, while it behaves in some aspects analogous to homonuclear cross-polarization when the two rf fields approach each other. The novel coherence-transfer sequence, referred to as 'cosine-modulated shaped Waltz' (CSW), was implemented in a 3D (H)C(CCO)NH experiment using an 18-kDa isotopically labeled protein.

cis-gigantrionenin and 4-acetyl gigantetrocin A, two new bioactive annonaceous acetogenins from Goniothalamus giganteus, and the stereochemistries of acetogenin 1,2,5-triols

Using activity-directed fractionation, two new bioactive acetogenins, cis-gigantrionenin (1) and 4-acetyl gigantetrocin A (2), have been isolated from the bark of Goniothalamus giganteus (Annonaceae). Compound 1 has a cis-mono-THF ring with one flanking hydroxyl and possesses a cis-double bond at C-21/22 of the aliphatic chain; it represents only the second example of the cis-mono-THF ring annonaceous acetogenins having one flanking hydroxyl. Compound 2 has a trans-mono-THF ring with one flanking hydroxyl, but it possesses a mono-acetyl group at the 4-OH position; it represents only the second natural example of the acetylated annonaceous acetogenins; the first acetogenin reported, uvaricin, was mono-acetylated at the 24-OH. The stereochemistries of 1 and 2 were determined by the advanced Mosher ester method. In addition, the absolute stereochemistries of gigantriocin (3), gigantrionenin (4), and giganenin (5) were determined by the advanced Mosher ester method and by circular dichroism (CD). The stereochemistries of the 7,8-diols in murihexocins A (6) and B (7) were determined to have the S,S-configurations, respectively.

[A review of 10 patients of nephrectomy through laparoscope video]

Ten patients were subjected to nephrectomy through laparoscope video. Compared with routine nephrectomy, it has such merits as slight trauma, less bleeding and pain during the operation as well as quick recovery and short hospitalization. In 6 male patients and 4 female patients the oldest one was 75 years old, and the youngest one was 15 years old. Seven patients suffered from nephrohydrosis and 3 from polycystic kidney. Before the operation, the patients were found the loss of function of the diseased kidney. The video scope was inserted into the abdominal cavity through an operating hole under the navel making the exploration in the cavity; the other operations are as basical as routine operations. The ill kidney was cut off and put into a special pocket, then it was cut into pieces, and taken out. The abdominal membrane was enclosed by the emanometer, the drainage tube kept. In the 10 patients the operations were successful and satisfactory.

Interspecies reactivities of anti-human macrophage monoclonal antibodies to various animal species

We examined interspecies reactivities of eight anti-human monocyte/macrophage monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), Am-3K, PM-2K, X4, X14, Ber-MAC3, GHI/61, EBM/11, and KP1, with various animal tissues including rats, guinea pigs, rabbits, cats, dogs, goats, pigs, bovines, horses, and monkeys. All MAbs recognized monkey macrophages. Pig macrophages were detected by most MAbs except for EBM/11 and KP1. Of the eight antibodies, AM-3K showed the widest interspecies reactivity. It reacted with macrophages of all animal species examined, except for rats. Western blot analysis revealed a similarity in the antigens recognized by AM-3K among guinea pigs, rabbits, and humans. Other anti-human MAbs demonstrated distinct reactive patterns against macrophages in animals. The immunostaining patterns of all of these MAbs in animal tissues were similar to those found in humans, although some MAbs, such as AM-3K, EBM/11, and X4, displayed more restricted reactivity in animals than in humans. These results indicate that some anti-human monocyte/macrophage MAbs are also available for immunohistochemical detection of monocyte/macrophages in animal tissues. Among them, AM-3K is considered to be the most useful MAb for identifying macrophages in various tissues of animals.

Applying Mosher's method to acetogenins bearing vicinal diols. The absolute configurations of muricatetrocin C and rollidecins A and B, new bioactive acetogenins from Rollinia mucosa

Muricatetrocin C (1), rollidecin A (2), and rollidecin B (3), three new bioactive annonaceous acetogenins bearing vicinal diols, were isolated from the leaves of Rollinia mucosa (Annonaceae) using activity-directed fractionation. The total structural elucidations of 1-3, including the absolute stereochemistries of the vicinal diols, were achieved by analyzing their per-Mosher ester derivatives. All three compounds showed potent and selective inhibitory effects against several human cancer cell lines.

[Analysis of human hair lead and zinc during various physiological periods]

Hair specimens were collected from 1,477 healthy persons at various physiological periods in different areas of Henan Province and determined for their lead and zinc contents, to study systematically the trend of their changes, correlationship between them and their intrinsic connection. Results showed hair lead level was higher in persons, except neonates and the elderly, living in urban area than in rural one. Hair lead level correlated inversely with hair zinc level in logarithmic scale during various physiological periods, with a coefficient of correlation of 0.971. It suggested there possibly is antagonism between lead and zinc in human bodies. Theoretical explanation of the above results and the possibility to use zinc to prevent and treat the hazard caused by lead were provided.

Selective regulation of RNK-16 cell matrix metalloproteinases by the EP4 subtype of prostaglandin E2 receptor

Cell surface expression of multiple structurally and functionally distinct prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) receptors (Rs), designated the EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4 Rs, is a principal determinant of the diverse cellular effects of PGE2. The RNK-16 line of rat large granular lymphocytes, which has served as a model for natural killer cells, coexpresses a mean of 1092 EP3 Rs and EP4 Rs per cell with a mean Kd of 2.7 nM. The presence of the EP3 and EP4 Rs and the absence of the EP1 and EP2 Rs were revealed by inhibition of [3H]PGE2 binding by the EP3/EP1R agonist sulprostone, the EP3/EP2/EP4R agonist M&B 28767, and the EP2/EP4/EP3R agonist misoprostol but not by the EP1R antagonist SC-19220 or the EP2R agonist butaprost. Functional EP4 R expression was confirmed by finding that PGE2 and misoprostol, but not butaprost or sulprostone, evoked increases in the intracellular concentration of cyclic AMP ([cAMP]) in RNK-16 cells. Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 and -3 were identified by zymography and Western blots as the principal MMPs secreted by RNK-16 cells. Secretion of both MMPs by RNK-16 cells attained a maximal level after 24 h of incubation and was enhanced significantly by 10(-9) to 10(-7) M PGE2, 10(-6) M misoprostol, and 10(-4) M dibutyryl cyclic AMP, but not by the EP3R agonist sulprostone. Thus, the effect of PGE2 on RNK-16 cell MMP secretion is mediated by an EP4 R-dependent mechanism involving increases in [cAMP]i. The migration of RNK-16 cells across micropore filters, without or with a layer of Matrigel, was stimulated chemokinetically by PGE2 and misoprostol. PGE2-elicited chemokinesis of RNK-16 cells across a Matrigel model basement membrane, but not across a microfilter alone, was suppressed by the GM 6001 inhibitor of MMP activities. Stimulation of MMP activities in RNK-16 cells by the EP4R thus facilitates migration of the NK cells across vascular basement membranes.

[Quadrant pattern visual evoked potential in normal eyes]

OBJECTIVE

The study was designed to approach the difference in pattern visual evoked potential (PVEP) among quadrants of the normal eye.

METHODS

Quadrant transient PVEP method was used to record quadrant PVEP for 70 eyes of 35 normal subjects.

RESULTS

The latency of P100 in lower temporal and lower nasal fields was significantly shorter than that in upper temporal and upper nasal fields; the amplitude of P100 in lower temporal and lower nasal fields was significantly higher than that in upper temporal and upper nasal fields. Generally, in lower field, the P100's latency is shorter and its amplitude higher.

CONCLUSION

The difference in P100 between upper and lower field of normal person is possibly related to the fact that the lower field is used more frequently than the upper in ordinary human or animal life, and to the differences in distribution of retinal ganglion cells and in retina-cortex pathway between the upper and lower retina.

[The effect of gamma-interferon on hepatic fibrosis in schistosomiasis japonica]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of gamma-IFN on hepatic fibrosis in schistosomiasis japonica.

METHODS

The amount and distribution of gamma-IFN and extracellular matrix, including fibronectin (FN), laminin (LN), I and II collagen which were used to judge the suppressing effect of gamma-IFN on hepatic fibrosis as markers of dynamics of extracellular matrix after administration of recombinant gamma-IFN, in liver obtained at different stages from S. japonicum-infected mice were determined by immunohistochemical streptavidin biotin-peroxidase complex method.

RESULTS

The amount of gamma-IFN in liver reached a peak (3 mice respectively reached 2, 3 and 4 grade) at the 16th week after infection, which was higher than the levels of control groups and infected-mice at the 8-12th week (chi 2 = 15.39, 7.50, P < 0.01), and the majority of gamma-IFN was distributed round egg granuloma. FN and LN, and I and II collagen increased to 1 grade, individual 2 grade, at the 8th week after infection, which were higher than control (chi 2 = 12.44-15.39, P < 0.01), and were lineally distributed round egg granuloma. With chronicity and decrease of gamma-IFN, however, FN, LN and I, II collagen gradually increased, and reached a peak (over 70% infected mice reached 3-4 grade) respectively at the 20th week and 24th week, became wide, thick and retiform and deposited round and in egg granuloma. After administration of gamma-IFN, only 3 infected mice had 2 grade of FN at the 20th week, two mice had respectively 3 grade of type I and II collagen at the 24th week, and none of them reached 4 grade, which were significantly less than those in the untreated group at the same stage (chi 2 = 10.77, 5.05, 7.20, P < 0.01-0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that gamma-IFN may play an important role in opposing the inflammatory response of egg granuloma, decreasing secretion and deposition of extracellular matrix in liver and suppressing hepatic fibrosis.

Identification of amino acids involved in recognition by dengue virus NS3-specific, HLA-DR15-restricted cytotoxic CD4+ T-cell clones

The majority of T-cell clones derived from a donor who experienced dengue illness following receipt of a live experimental dengue virus type 3 (DEN3) vaccine cross-reacted with all four serotypes of dengue virus, but some were serotype specific or only partially cross-reactive. The nonstructural protein, NS3, was immuno-dominant in the CD4+ T-cell response of this donor. The epitopes of four NS3-specific T-cell clones were analyzed. JK15 and JK13 recognized only DEN3 NS3, while JK44 recognized DEN1, DEN2, and DEN3 NS3 and JK5 recognized DEN1, DEN3, and West Nile virus NS3. The epitopes recognized by these clones on the DEN3 NS3 protein were localized with recombinant vaccinia viruses expressing truncated regions of the NS3 gene, and then the minimal recognition sequence was mapped with synthetic peptides. Amino acids critical for T-cell recognition were assessed by using peptides with amino acid substitutions. One of the serotype-specific clones (JK13) and the subcomplex- and flavivirus-cross-reactive clone (JK5) recognized the same core epitope, WITDFVGKTVW. The amino acid at the sixth position of this epitope is critical for recognition by both clones. Sequence analysis of the T-cell receptors of these two clones showed that they utilize different VP chains. The core epitopes for the four HLA-DR15-restricted CD4+ CTL clones studied do not contain motifs similar to those proposed by previous studies on endogenous peptides eluted from HLA-DR15 molecules. However, the majority of these dengue virus NS3 core epitopes have a positive amino acid (K or R) at position 8 or 9. Our results indicate that a single epitope can induce T cells with different virus specificities despite the restriction of these T cells by the same HLA-DR15 allele. This finding suggests a previously unappreciated level of complexity for interactions between human T-cell receptors and viral epitopes with very similar sequences on infected cells.

Two-color interferometer for surface characterization using two frequency doublers and a four-phase-step method

A high-accuracy, two-color interferometer for characterizing a processed surface is described. It is composed of two frequency doublers. It is not affected by air turbulence and mechanical vibration because it is a complete common-path interferometer, and the effects from different reflectivities of various materials are canceled by a four-phase-step technique that shifts the phase of the interference fringe in steps of π/2. The processed surface is measured with subnanometer resolution.

(2,4-cis)-asimicinone and (2,4-trans)-asimicinone: two novel bioactive ketolactone acetogenins from Asimina triloba (Annonaceae)

Two novel bioactive ketolactone Annonaceous acetogenins, (2,4-cis)-asimicinone (1) and (2,4-trans)-asimicinone (2), have been isolated from Asimina triloba (Annonaceae) by bioactivity directed fractionation. The separation of these two epimeric compounds was achieved by HPLC methods using a Si gel normal phase column eluted with acetone in hexane gradients. The assignments of cis or trans stereochemistry of the ketolactone moieties were made on the bases of 1H-1H COSY and NOESY experiments. 1 and 2 showed selective cytotoxicities against A-549 (human lung cancer) and MCF-7 (human breast cancer) cell lines with ED50 values as low as < 10(-7) micrograms/ml with 2 being the more active isomer.

Longimicins A-D: novel bioactive acetogenins from Asimina longifolia (annonaceae) and structure-activity relationships of asimicin type of annonaceous acetogenins

Bioactivity-directed fractionation of the ethanol extract of Asimina longifolia led to the isolation of four novel bioactive annonaceous acetogenins: longimicins A-D (1-4). Compounds 1-4 represent the asimicin type of acetogenins; however, the locations of the adjacent bis-tetrahydrofuran (THF) ring moieties are shifted along the aliphatic chains compared to the known compounds of this type. They are the first examples among this type of acetogenins with the placements of the ring systems altered. Compounds 1-4 showed bioactivities in several bioassays, but they are less active than their structural isomers. Study of their structure-activity relationships (SAR) reveals that the position of the adjacent bis-THF ring moiety is essential for maximization of the bioactivities among these asimicin type annonaceous acetogenins.

Bioactive ent-kaurene diterpenoids from Annona senegalensis

Activity-guided fractionation of the stem bark of Annona senegalensis gave four bioactive ent-kaurenoids (1-4). Compound 2 showed selective and significant cytotoxicity for MCF-7 (breast cancer) cells (ED50 1.0 microgram/mL), and 3 and 4 exhibited cytotoxic selectivity for PC-3 (prostate cancer) cells but with weaker potencies (ED50 17-18 micrograms/mL). The structure of the new compound, 3, was deduced from spectral evidence.

Expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and interleukin-8 receptors on subsets of T cells: correlation with transendothelial chemotactic potential

The differential expression of chemokine receptors may be an important mechanism for the regulation of T cell migration. To test this, we examined the expression and function of the monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 and interleukin (IL)-8 receptors on various population of T cells. Using a simple and reliable transendothelial chemotaxis assay, both MCP-1 and IL-8 were shown to be chemotactic for subsets of blood T cells, although the relative response varied from donor to donor. To examine receptor expression and correlate it with chemotaxis of T cell subsets, monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to the receptors were produced by immunizing mice either with synthetic peptides (MCP-1 receptor), or with receptor transfectants (IL-8 receptors A and B). A flow cytometric analysis of blood T cells with an anti-MCP-1 receptor mAb revealed low expression on the CD26hi subset and undetectable expression on other T cells. Staining of T cells with anti-Il-8RA and anti-IL-8RB showed much higher levels of expression, but only on a subset of CD3+ cells which were CD8+ and CD56+. That IL-8 and MCP-1 attracted distinct subsets of T cells was best illustrated using the CD26 marker, since IL-8R+ T cells were CD26-, whereas T cells expressing detectable MCP-1R or which responded to MCP-1 in chemotaxis assays were CD26hi. T cells activated in vitro with anti-CD3 up-regulated expression of the MCP-1 receptor, but not the IL-8 receptors, and were attracted to MCP-1 much more efficiently than resting T cells. These results show that there is a clear distinction between the IL-8 and MCP-1-responsive T cell populations and that chemokine receptor expression on T cells may be regulated with respect to linkage as well as cellular activation.

Study of protein dynamics in solution by measurement of (13)C (α)- (13)CO NOE and (13)CO longitudinal relaxation

(13)C(α)-(13)CO homonuclear NOE and (13)CO T(1) relaxation were measured for a 20 kDa protein using tripleresonance pulse sequences. The experiments were sufficiently sensitive to obtain statistically significant differences in relaxation parameters over the molecule. The (13)C(α)-(13)CO cross-relaxation rate, obtained from these data, is directly proportional to an order parameter describing local motion and it is largely independent of the local correlation time. It is therefore a relatively straightforward observable for the identification of local dynamics.

Selectively cytotoxic diterpenes from Euphorbia poisonii

Bioactivity-guided fractionation of the latex of Euphorbia poisonii Pax. (Euphorbiaceae) led to the isolation and characterization of a new tigliane diterpene, 12-deoxyphorbol 13-(9,10-methylene)undecanoate (3), together with five known diterpenes (1,2,4-6). When evaluated for cytotoxicity in a panel of six human solid tumor cell lines, the diterpene esters, 1-3, 5, and 6, were selectively cytotoxic for the human kidney carcinoma (A-498) cell line with potencies for 2 and 3 exceeding that of adriamycin by ten thousand times. Details of the isolations, structural analyses, and cytotoxic activities are described.

AM-3K, a novel monoclonal antibody specific for tissue macrophages and its application to pathological investigation

An anti-human macrophage monoclonal antibody, AM-3K, was produced using human alveolar macrophages as antigen. The molecular weights of the antigen recognized by AM-3K were 120 and 70 kD. Immunohistochemically, AM-3K reacted intensely with most macrophages in lymphoreticular organs and in many other organs and tissues. In the spleen, AM-3K reacted with red pulp macrophages, some white pulp macrophages, and tingible body macrophages in lymphoid follicles. In the lymph nodes, many macrophages distributed in the outer cortex, paracortical area, medulla, capsule, or within lymphoid follicles showed an intense reaction for AM-3K. Kupffer cells of the liver, macrophages in the connective tissues, and interstitial macrophages of the kidneys, pancreas, testis, and many other organs were also strongly labelled. AM-3K also reacted with macrophages in many pathological conditions. This antibody, however, did not react with dendritic cell populations, such as epidermal Langerhans cells, interdigitating cells in the paracortex of the lymph nodes, and follicular dendritic cells within the lymphoid follicles, nor with cells other than macrophages, including epithelial cells, vascular endothelial cells, lymphocytes, and granulocytes. Reaction products for AM-3K were found on the cytoplasmic membrane of macrophages by immunoelectron microscopy. In both cryostat sections and formalin-fixed paraffin sections, this monoclonal antibody recognized the antigen present on the cell surface membrane of tissue macrophages, but not monocytes or dendritic cells.

Squamotacin: an annonaceous acetogenin with cytotoxic selectivity for the human prostate tumor cell line (PC-3)

The bark extracts of Annona squamosa yielded a new bioactive acetogenin, squamotacin (1), and the known compound, molvizarin (2), which is new to this species. Compound 1 is identical to the potent acetogenin, bullatacin (3), except that the adjacent bistetrahydrofuran (THF) rings and their flanking hydroxyls are shifted two carbons toward the gamma-lactone ring. Compound 1 showed cytotoxic selectively for the human prostate tumor cell line (PC-3), with a potency of over 100 million times that of Adriamycin.

Five novel mono-tetrahydrofuran ring acetogenins from the seeds of Annona muricata

Bioactivity-directed fractionation of the seeds of Annona muricata L. (Annonaceae) resulted in the isolation of five new compounds: cis-annonacin (1), cis-annonacin-10-one (2), cis-goniothalamicin (3), arianacin (4), and javoricin (5). Three of these (1-3) are among the first cis mono-tetrahydrofuran ring acetogenins to be reported. NMR analyses of published model synthetic compounds, prepared cyclized formal acetals, and prepared Mosher ester derivatives permitted the determinations of absolute stereochemistries. Bioassays of the pure compounds, in the brine shrimp test, for the inhibition of crown gall tumors, and in a panel of human solid tumor cell lines for cytotoxicity, evaluated relative potencies. Compound 1 was selectively cytotoxic to colon adenocarcinoma cells (HT-29) in which it was 10,000 times the potency of adriamycin.

The absolute configuration of adjacent bis-THF acetogenins and asiminocin, a novel highly potent asimicin isomer from Asimina triloba

A novel acetogenin, asiminocin (1), was isolated by activity-directed fractionation from the stem bark of the paw paw tree, Asimina triloba. By spectral and chemical methods, 1 was identified as (30S)-hydroxy-4-deoxyasimicin. The absolute configuration of 1, along with those of previously reported acetogenins asimin, asiminacin, bullatin, (30S)-bullanin, and (30R) bullanin, was determined by Mosher ester methodology. Compound 1 was highly inhibitory to three human solid tumor cell lines with over a billion times the potency of adriamycin.

Seasonal change in the exacerbations of Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

Ulcerative colitis (UC) has been reported to run a clinical course with seasonal exacerbations in both retrospective and prospective studies; such a seasonality was not been observed, however, in Crohn's disease (CD).

METHODS

The monthly distribution in the relapse of CD was retrospectively studied to ascertain whether there is any seasonal variation in the exacerbations of the disease. During the period of 1972 to 1993, 139 patients who had been regularly followed up for at least 13 consecutive months were analyzed.

RESULTS

In a total of 10,693 follow-up months for these patients 592 relapses occurred in the study period. The highest relapse rate was found in the autumn and winter, whereas the lowest was in the summer.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that CD runs a clinical course with seasonal exacerbations, suggesting that seasonal or exogenous factors may be involved in the relapse of CD.

[The effect of interferon in combination with ribavirin on the plus and minus strands of hepatitis C virus RNA in patients with hepatitis]

The effect of interferon in combination with ribavirin on the plus and minus strands of hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC) was studied by means of nested RT-PCR. The results showed that in those who respond to the combination of antiviral therapy, their increased serum ALT levels decreased to normal range, but more than half (55.56%) of these patients relapsed 24 weeks after cessation of the antiviral therapy. The positive rate of the plus strand HCV RNA in serum (92.31%) decreased significantly to 38.46% (P < 0.005) and that of the minus strands HCV RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC, 76.92%) to 38.46% (P < 0.05) at the end of the treatment, but little effect on the plus strand HCV RNA in PBMC in these patients was found. Relapse occurred in patients whose plus and minus strands of HCV RNA in PBMC remained positive during treatment. These data indicated that absence of HCV RNA in serum do not mean complete clearance of HCV and can not predict a sustained therapeutic response. For evaluating the antiviral effect and prognosis it is essential to measure the plus and minus strands of HCV RNA in serum and PBMC simultaneously. The results of the combined antiviral therapy were similar to that of single interferon treatment; it seems that rib-a-virin do not enhance the antiviral effect of interferon.

Insulin and vasopressin elicit inhibition of cholera-toxin-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in both hepatocytes and the P9 immortalized hepatocyte cell line through an action involving protein kinase C

Incubation of hepatocytes or the SV40-DNA-immortalized hepatocyte P9 cell line with cholera toxin led to a time-dependent activation of adenylate cyclase activity, which occurred after a defined lag period. When added together with cholera toxin, each of the hormones insulin and vasopressin was capable of attenuating the maximum stimulatory effect achieved by cholera toxin over a period of 60 min through a process which could be blocked by the compounds staurosporine and chelerythrine. Attenuating effects on cholera-toxin-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity could also be elicited by using either the protein kinase C (PKC)-stimulating phorbol ester PMA (phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate) or the protein phosphatase inhibitor okadaic acid. Alkaline phosphatase treatment of membranes reversed the inhibitory effect of PMA. Cholera toxin also stimulated the adenylate cyclase activity of intact CHO (Chinese-hamster ovary) and NIH-3T3 cells, but this activity was insensitive to the addition of PMA. Overexpression of various PKC isoforms in CHO cell lines did not confer sensitivity to inhibition by PMA upon cholera-toxin-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity. Rather, overexpression of the gamma isoform of PKC allowed PMA to stimulate adenylate cyclase activity in CHO cells. It is suggested that the PKC-mediated phosphorylation of a membrane protein attenuates cholera-toxin-stimulated adenylate cyclase activity in hepatocytes and P9 cells. The cellular selectivity of such an action may be due to the target for this inhibitory action of PKC being a particular isoform of adenylate cyclase which provides the major activity in hepatocytes and P9 cells, but not in either CHO or NIH-3T3 cells.

Independent down-regulation of EP2 and EP3 subtypes of the prostaglandin E2 receptors on U937 human monocytic cells

Co-expression of EP2 and EP3 subtypes of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) receptors (R) by U937 human monocytic cells permitted comparative studies of desensitization of each subtype. Specific binding of [3H]PGE2 to membranes of U937 cells showed a Kd of 2.9 +/- 0.3 nM (mean +/- SEM) and a Bmax of 40.5 +/- 1.0 fmol/mg protein, and was competitively inhibited by PGE2 > or = PGE1 > PGF2 alpha > PGD2 > PGI2. EP2 R and EP3 R mRNA were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Northern blots. EP3 R expression was demonstrated by inhibition of [3H]PGE2 binding with the EP1/EP3 agonist sulprostone [50% inhibitory concentration (IC50 = 3.3 +/- 0.6 nM)] and the EP3/EP2 agonist M&B 28767 (IC50 = 2.1 +/- 0.3 nM), but not with the EP1 antagonist SC-19220. EP2 R protein was identified by Western blot analysis using specific rabbit IgG antibodies to an amino-terminal peptide of the EP2 R. EP2 R transduced PGE2 stimulation of significant increases in cellular [cAMP]i [50% effective concentration (EC50 = 20 +/- 2.5 nM)], and EP3 R mediated sulprostone inhibition of forskolin elevation of [cAMP]i (IC50 = 1.3 +/- 0.4 nM). Pretreatment of U937 cells with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), which activates protein kinase C (PKC), for 1 hr reduced the total number, but not the affinity, of PGE2 R by down-regulating principally EP2 R. In contrast, a 24-hr exposure to PMA, which is known to down-regulate PKC, suppressed both the total number and affinity of PGE2 R on U937 cells with concurrent reductions in EP2 R and EP3 R. The down-regulation of EP2 R by PMA at 1 hr was blocked by staurosporine, an inhibitor of PKC, whereas the down-regulation of EP3 R by PMA at 24 hr was blocked by indomethacin. Pretreatment of U937 cells with PGE2 for 1 and 24 hr reduced both the binding affinity and the total number of PGE2 R, by co-ordinate suppression of the EP2 R and EP3 R. Desensitization of EP2 R and EP3 R for 1 hr with PGE2 suppressed subsequent PGE2-evoked chemokinetic responses to PGE2, whereas selective down-regulation of EP2 R alone by PMA for 1 hr had no effects on U937 cell migration. Thus expression of each subtype of PGE2 R is regulated independently and EP3 R, but not EP2 R, transduces PGE2 effects on migration of mononuclear phagocytes.

Stimulation of matrix metalloproteinase-dependent migration of T cells by eicosanoids

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and leukotriene B4 (LTB4), at nanomolar to micromolar concentrations, elicited migration of human blood T cells and cultured T lymphoblastoma cells of the Tsup-1 line through a layer of Matrigel basement membrane matrix. The density of Tsup-1 cell high-affinity receptors was low for PGE2 and high for LTB4, resulting in respectively predominant chemokinetic and chemotactic stimulation of migration. Migration-enhancing concentrations of PGE2 and LTB4 also increased Tsup-1 cell content and secretion of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2, 3, and 9, which were quantified by Western blots and zymography, and augmented Tsup-1 cell-surface expression of the MMPs, as shown by flow cytometry. That a specific MMP inhibitor suppressed migration of blood T cells and Tsup-1 cells through Matrigel, but did not affect PGE2- and LTB4-initiated T cell migration through micropore filters without Matrigel, suggests dual requirements for MMP expression and enhanced motility in T cell passage through basement membranes.

Human malignant mesothelial cells: variability of ultrastructural features in established and nude mice transplanted cell lines

The aim of this study was to determine, by transmission electron microscopy, the differentiation features of 21 human malignant mesothelioma cell lines (HMCLs) established from 13 specimens of 12 confirmed human malignant mesotheliomas, and of tumours induced in nude mice injected with 16 HMCLs. Fifty per cent of HMCLs showed typical mesothelial differentiation (long and slender microvilli, desmosomes, perinuclear intermediate filaments); 29 per cent did not show differentiation; and the remainder were poorly differentiated. Three human tumour specimens gave several different HMCLs; the cell lines obtained from a given tumour exhibited variable mesothelial differentiation. Eleven HMCLs were compared with the native tumour. Four were similar to the tumour and seven were less well differentiated, in most cases in relation to their microvilli. With six HMCLs, tumours induced in nude mice were less well differentiated than the corresponding cell lines, whereas with four HMCLs, tumours were equally or better differentiated. However, in most nude mice tumours, typical mesothelial microvilli were present. These results show that cell lines established from malignant mesothelioma may exhibit dedifferentiated features. However, while the variability in ultrastructural differentiation may result from the culture microenvironment, it could also be related to the state of differentiation, of the native tumour sample and to tumour cell heterogeneity.

Asimilobin and cis- and trans-murisolinones, novel bioactive Annonaceous acetogenins from the seeds of Asimina triloba

Three new bioactive Annonaceous acetogenins, asimilobin [1], cis-murisolinone [2], and trans-murisolinone [3], have been isolated from an ethanolic extract of the seeds of Asimina triloba by directing the fractionation with brine shrimp lethality. The structure were elucidated based on spectroscopic and chemical methods, In addition, cis- and trans-bullatacinone, which are known compounds, were obtained. Asimilobin [1] has adjacent bis-THF rings, located at C-10 to C-17 and having only one flanking hydroxyl group at C-18. Compounds 1-3 showed cytotoxicity values comparable with adriamycin against six human solid tumor cell lines.

Resistance to transformation by insertionally activated c-erbB is a dominant phenotype in fibroblasts

Tissue-specific factors influence whether cells are susceptible to transformation by erbB oncogenes. Avian fibroblasts resist transformation by insertionally activated c-erbB (IAc-erbB), whereas erythroblasts are transformed by this mutant of the epidermal growth factor receptor. In studies presented here, NIH/3T3 cells resisted transformation by IAc-erbB. This finding indicates that the nonpermissiveness of fibroblasts is conserved between avian and murine species. Surprisingly, expression of IAc-erbB blocked transformation by a v-erbB allele. The trans-dominant interference by IAc-erbB occurred despite expression at levels lower than for v-erbB. Together with previous reports, the results indicate that IAc-erbB can exert opposite growth effects in different tissues. The switch from positive to negative growth regulation, which depends on the cellular context, provides novel insight into tissue-specific regulation of receptor tyrosine kinases. Evasion of cell-specific inhibition apparently contributes to the distinct tissue tropisms of various erbB mutants.

New bioactive adjacent bis-THF annonaceous acetogenins from Annona bullata

Five new adjacent bis-THF annonaceous acetogenins, 32-hydroxybullatacin, 31-hydroxybullatacin, 30-hydroxybullatacin, and (2,4-cis and trans)-28-hydroxybullatacinones, were isolated from the ethanolic extract of the bark of Annona bullata Rich. (Annonaceae). The absolute configurations of the above five compounds, as well as those of (2,4-cis and trans)-32-, 31-, and 30-hydroxybullatacinones and (2,4-cis and trans)-bulladecinones, previously isolated from the same extract, were defined by the application of the advanced Mosher ester [methoxy(trifluoromethyl)phenyl acetate or MTPA] methodology. The determination of the absolute configuration of C-20 of (2,4-cis and trans)-bulladecinones to be S supports our hypothesis that the cyclization of the THF rings of (2,4-cis and trans)-bulladecinones starts from C-12 (the right side). The first five compounds listed above showed potent bioactivities in the brine shrimp lethality test (BST) and among six human solid tumour cell lines.

Additional bioactive acetogenins, annomutacin and (2,4-trans and cis)-10R-annonacin-A-ones, from the leaves of Annona muricata

In a continuation of our research on bioactive components from the leaves of Annona muricata, three novel monotetrahydrofuran Annonaceous acetogenins, namely, annomutacin [1], (2,4-trans)-10R-annonacin-A-one [2], and (2,4-cis)-10R- annonacin-A-one [3], have been identified. Their structures were deduced by ms, nmr, ir, and uv spectral and chemical methods, and the absolute configurations were determined by Mosher ester methodology. A known bioactive amide, N-p-coumaroyl tyramine, was also found. Compound 1 and the mixture of compounds 2 and 3 showed selective cytotoxicities against the human A-549 lung tumor cell line.

[Isolation and identification of extrem thermophilic bacteria from hot springs of Sichuan and Tibet]

Eleven strains of extrem thermophilic bacteria belonging to the Bacillus Stearothermophiles were isolated from the hot springs of Sichuan and Tibet. The cells were gram-positive, sporulating and motile. The optimum temperature for growth was between 65 degrees C to 70 degrees C; the maximum 94 degrees C, and minimum 40 degrees C. The colour of colony was yellow to bright orange. The G+C content of the DNA in strains has been found to be in the range 48.4-53.15 mol%.

Longicin and goniothalamicinone: novel bioactive monotetrahydrofuran acetogenins from Asimina longifolia

Longicin [1] and (2,4-cis and trans)-goniothalamicinone [2], two new monotetrahydrofuran Annonaceous acetogenins, have been isolated from the leaves and twigs of Asimina longifolia (the long leaf paw paw) by the use of the brine shrimp lethality test for bioactivity-directed fractionation. The structures were elucidated based on spectroscopic and chemical methods. Compound 1 was converted to its ketolactone isomer, (2,4-cis and trans)-longicinone [3], to aid the stereochemical elucidation of 1. Compounds 1-3 showed selective and potent cytotoxicities to certain human tumor cell lines, with the potency of 1 against pancreatic carcinoma (PaCa-2) over one million times that of adriamycin. Nine known cytotoxic acetogenins, annonacin, xylomaticin, isoannonacin, gigantetrocins A and B, muricatetrocins A and B, gigantetrocin-A-one and goniothalamicin, were also isolated for the first time from this species.

Phenotypic and molecular analysis of a transgenic insertional allele of the mouse Fused locus

Spontaneous mutations at the mouse Fused (Fu) locus cause dominant skeletal and neurological defects and recessive lethal embryonic defects including neuroectodermal abnormalities and axial duplications. Here, we describe a new allele at the Fu locus caused by a transgenic insertional mutation, H epsilon 46. Embryos homozygous for the H epsilon 46 insertion die at day 9-10 post coitum and display phenotypic defects similar to those associated with Fu alleles. The H epsilon 46 locus was cloned and shown to contain a 20-kb deletion at the site of transgene insertion with no other detectable rearrangements. Genomic probes from the H epsilon 46 locus were mapped to a genetic locus closely linked to Fu on chromosome 17 and were hybridized to a YAC contig covering the FuKi critical region. Compound heterozygotes between H epsilon 46 and FuKi were inviable and displayed abnormalities at the same stage of embryogenesis as do homozygotes for either of the two mutations, demonstrating that these two recessive lethal mutations belong to the same complementation group. A genomic probe from the wild-type H epsilon 46 locus detected a transcript that is disrupted by the transgenic insertion, representing a candidate for the wild-type allele of Fused.

Fibrin sealant matrix supports outgrowth of peripheral sensory axons

It has been suggested that fibrin-based matrix has an important role during the early stage of nerve regeneration. A fibrin sealant matrix, which was made by combining diluted human fibrinogen and thrombin, was used as a substrate for in vitro elongation of neurites and in vivo regeneration of axons. In the in vitro experiment, dissociated embryonic chick sensory neurons were cultured on dishes coated with fibrin sealant matrix and compared with the solution of thrombin/calcium chloride, or with poly-D-lysine (PDLctr). After 16 hours, cultures were stained immunohistochemically with a monoclonal antineurofilament antibody. The neurons survived well, and an abundant network of neurites, qualitatively similar to that on PDLctr, developed on the fibrin sealant matrix. The percentage of neurons that had outsprout at 16 hours was the same both in the fibrin sealant matrix and PDLctr groups. By contrast, all the neurons plated on the dishes treated with the solution of thrombin/calcium chloride were dead after 16 hours. Immunohistochemical staining of fibrinogen also showed an even distribution of fibrin matrix over the culture dishes. For the in vivo experiments, 48 rat sciatic nerves were cut and reconnected with two epineurial stitches. Fibrin sealant matrix or phosphate buffer solution was applied to the transsected and repaired region. Pinch reflex test showed that the regeneration of the leading sensory fibre was significantly faster in the fibrin sealant matrix group than in the control group at 3 and 4 days. These results indicate that fibrin sealant matrix accelerates regeneration of axons in vivo during the early phase, and also supports elongation of neurites in vitro.

New bioactive monotetrahydrofuran Annonaceous acetogenins, annomuricin C and muricatocin C, from the leaves of Annona muricata

The leaves of Annona muricata have yielded two additional monotetrahydrofuran Annonaceous acetogenins, annomuricin C [1] and muricatocin C [2]. Compounds 1 and 2 each possess five hydroxyl groups; two hydroxyl groups are at the C-10/C-11 and C-10/C-12 positions in 1 and 2, respectively. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2, except for positions C-10 and C-11 or C-12, were determined by Mosher ester methodology. The C-10/C-11 and C-10/C-12 acetonides (1c, 2c) suggested relative stereochemistry and significantly enhanced the cytotoxicities against the A-549 human lung and the MCF-7 human beast solid tumor cell lines. One known monotetrahydrofuran acetogenin, gigantetronenin, not described previously from this plant, was also found.

Two new cytotoxic monotetrahydrofuran Annonaceous acetogenins, annomuricins A and B, from the leaves of Annona muricata

The leaves of Annona muricata have yielded eight monotetrahydrofuran Annonaceous acetogenins. Two of them, annomuricins A [1] and B [2], whose chemical structures were deduced by ms, nmr, ir, and uv spectral and chemical methods, are novel and unusual. Compounds 1 and 2 each possess five hydroxyl groups; two hydroxyl groups are vicinal, with the vicinal group of 1 threo and that of 2 erythro. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 were determined by Mosher ester methodology. Six monotetrahydrofuran acetogenins, previously described in the seeds, were found in the leaves; these are gigantetrocin A, annonacin-10-one, muricatetrocins A and B, annonacin, and goniothalamicin.

Muricatocins A and B, two new bioactive monotetrahydrofuran Annonaceous acetogenins from the leaves of Annona muricata

The leaves of Annona muricata have yielded the novel monotetrahydrofuran Annonaceous acetogenins, muricatocins A [1] and B [2]. Each compound possesses five hydroxyl groups, with two hydroxyl groups at the C-10 and C-12 positions. The absolute configurations of 1 and 2 (except for positions C-10 and C-12) were determined by Mosher ester methodology. The C-10, C-12 acetonides (1c, 2c) suggested relative stereochemistry and significantly enhanced cytotoxicity against the A-549 human lung tumor cell line. Three known monotetrahydrofuran acetogenins, annonacin A, (2,4-trans)-isoannonacin, and (2,4-cis)-isoannonacin, were also found.

Molecular characterization of the 3' terminus of the simian hemorrhagic fever virus genome

The 3' end of the simian hemorrhagic fever virus (SHFV) single-stranded RNA genome was cloned and sequenced. Adjacent to the 3' poly(A) tract, we identified a 76-nucleotide noncoding region preceded by two overlapping reading frames (ORFs). The ultimate 3' ORF of the viral genome encodes the capsid protein, and the penultimate ORF encodes the smallest SHFV envelope protein. These two ORFs overlap each other by 26 nucleotides. Northern (RNA) blot hybridization analyses of cytoplasmic RNA extracts from SHFV-infected MA-104 cells with gene-specific probes revealed the presence of full-length genomic RNA as well as six subgenomic SHFV-specific mRNA species. The subgenomic mRNAs are 3' coterminal. In its virion morphology and size, genome structure and length, and replication strategy, SHFV is most similar to lactate dehydrogenase-elevating virus, equine arteritis virus, and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus.

Venezenin: a new bioactive Annonaceous acetogenin from the bark of Xylopia aromatica

Asimicin and a new cytotoxic Annonaceous acetogenin, venezenin [1], were isolated from the bark of Xylopia aromatica by bioactivity-directed fractionation using lethality to brine shrimp. Compound 1 represents an unusual type of C37 Annonaceous acetogenin, lacking either tetrahydrofuran (THF) or epoxide rings and possessing a double bond located two methylenes away from a vicinal diol in the hydrocarbon chain. The structure of 1 was elucidated by 1H- and 13C-nmr, COSY, single-relayed COSY, and by HMBC techniques, and derivatization. Annomontacin 10-one [6] and 18/21-cis-annomontacin-10-one [7], two semi-synthetic mono-THF acetogenins were prepared from 1. These acetogenins showed cytotoxicity, comparable or superior to adriamycin, against three human solid tumor cell lines. Reduction of the 10-keto of 1 to the racemic OH-10 derivative enhanced the bioactivity, as did the conversion of 1 to 6 and 7. Venezenin [1], like other Annonaceous acetogenins, showed inhibition of oxygen uptake by rat liver mitochondria and demonstrated that the THF ring may not be essential to this mode of action.