83751
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Yan J, Tang H, Liu Y, Jing Y, Jiao Z, Zhang Q, Gao J, Shang L, Guo H, Yu J. Genetic polymorphisms of 17 Y-STRs haplotypes in Chinese Han population residing in Shandong province of China. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2007; 9:196-202. [PMID: 17275384 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2006.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2006] [Revised: 11/23/2006] [Accepted: 11/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
We have co-amplified (DYS19, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DYS385a,b, DYS437, DYS438, DYS439, DYS448, DYS456, DYS458, DYS635, and Y GATA H4) in a single PCR using the AmpFLSTR Yfiler PCR Amplification system. Allelic frequency distribution and haplotype diversity of 17 Y-chromosomal STR from a sample of 131 unrelated individuals of Chinese Han population living in Shandong province of China were obtained. A total of 129 haplotypes were observed in the 131 individuals studied, of which 127 were unique and two were found in two individuals. The gene diversity values ranged from 0.3560 (DYS391) to 0.9675 (DYS385a,b), The overall haplotype diversity for the 17 Y-STR loci was 0.9998, and the discrimination capacity was 0.9695. These results are compared with those observed in worldwide populations at both the locus and the haplotype level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangwei Yan
- Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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83752
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McCullumsmith RE, Gupta D, Beneyto M, Kreger E, Haroutunian V, Davis KL, Meador-Woodruff JH. Expression of transcripts for myelination-related genes in the anterior cingulate cortex in schizophrenia. Schizophr Res 2007; 90:15-27. [PMID: 17223013 PMCID: PMC1880890 DOI: 10.1016/j.schres.2006.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2006] [Revised: 11/20/2006] [Accepted: 11/26/2006] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Several recent studies have found changes in the expression of genes functionally related to myelination and oligodendrocyte homeostasis in schizophrenia. These studies utilized microarrays and quantitative PCR (QPCR), methodologies which do not permit direct, unamplified examination of mRNA expression. In addition, these studies generally only examined transcript expression in homogenates of gray matter. In the present study, we examined the expression of myelination-related genes previously implicated in schizophrenia by microarray or QPCR. Using in situ hybridization, we measured transcript expression of 2',3'-cyclic nucleotide 3'-phosphodiesterase (CNP), myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG), transferrin (TF), quaking (QKI), gelsolin, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein, v-erb-b2 erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 3, erbb2 interacting protein, motility-related protein-1, SRY-box containing gene 10, oligodendrocyte transcription factor 2, peripheral myelin protein 22, and claudin-11 in both gray and white matter of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in subjects with schizophrenia (n=41) and a comparison group (n=34). We found decreased expression of MAG, QKI, TF, and CNP transcripts in white matter. We did not find any differences in expression of these transcripts between medicated (n=31) and unmedicated (n=10) schizophrenics, suggesting that these changes are not secondary to treatment with antipsychotics. Finally, we found significant positive correlations between QKI and MAG or CNP mRNA expression, suggesting that the transcription factor QKI regulates MAG and CNP expression. Our results support the hypothesis that myelination and oligodendrocyte function are impaired in schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert E McCullumsmith
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurobiology, University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, Birmingham, AL, USA.
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83753
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Kong X, Zhang W, Lockey RF, Auais A, Piedimonte G, Mohapatra SS. Respiratory syncytial virus infection in Fischer 344 rats is attenuated by short interfering RNA against the RSV-NS1 gene. Genet Vaccines Ther 2007; 5:4. [PMID: 17270047 PMCID: PMC1805440 DOI: 10.1186/1479-0556-5-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2006] [Accepted: 02/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes severe bronchiolitis and is a risk factor for asthma. Since there is no commercially available vaccine against RSV, a short interfering RNA against the RSV-NS1gene (siNS1) was developed and its potential for decreasing RSV infection and infection-associated inflammation in rats was tested. Methods Plasmids encoding siNS1 or an unrelated siRNA were complexed with a chitosan nanoparticle delivery agent and administered intranasally. Control animals received a plasmid for a non-specific siRNA. After expression of the plasmid in lung cells for 24 hours, the rats were intranasally infected with RSV. Results Prophylaxis with siNS1 significantly reduced lung RSV titers and airway hyperreactivity to methacholine challenge compared to the control group. Lung sections from siNS1-treated rats showed a sizable reduction in goblet cell hyperplasia and in lung infiltration by inflammatory cells, both characteristics of asthma. Also, bronchoalveolar lavage samples from siNS1-treated animals had fewer eosinophils. Treatment of rats with siNS1 prior to RSV exposure was effective in reducing virus titers in the lung and in preventing the inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness associated with the infection that has been linked to development of asthma. Conclusion The use of siNS1 prophylaxis may be an effective method for preventing RSV bronchiolitis and potentially reducing the later development of asthma associated with severe respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyuan Kong
- University of South Florida College of Medicine, Florida, USA
| | - Weidong Zhang
- University of South Florida College of Medicine, Florida, USA
| | | | - Alexander Auais
- Batchelor Children's Institute, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, USA
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83754
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83755
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Abstract
Tumor growth is influenced by interactions between malignant cells and the tumor stroma. Although the normal host microenvironment is nonpermissive for neoplastic progression, tumor-reactive stroma, characterized by the presence of activated fibroblasts, promotes neoplastic growth and metastasis. Secreted protein, acidic and rich in cysteine (SPARC) is a matricellular glycoprotein that is capable of inhibiting the growth of several different types of cancer. Recently, we reported that SPARC also impairs the growth of xenografts comprised of 293 cells. In this study, we show that in addition to enhancing stroma formation, SPARC prevents fibroblast activation in 293 xenografts, suggesting that the anti-cancer effects of SPARC may be due, at least in part, to the formation of tumor stroma that is not supportive of tumor growth. In vitro, 3T3 fibroblasts cocultured with SPARC-transfected 293 cells remain negative for alpha-smooth muscle actin, whereas wild-type 293 cells induce fibroblast activation. Moreover, activation of 3T3 cells and primary fibroblasts by transforming growth factor beta is blocked by SPARC treatment. We also demonstrate that SPARC significantly increases basic fibroblast growth factor-induced fibroblast migration in vitro, indicating that it may recruit host fibroblasts to the tumor stroma. Taken together, our results suggest that in addition to blocking angiogenesis, SPARC may inhibit tumor growth by promoting the assembly of stroma that is non-permissive for tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Chlenski
- The Robert H Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago, IL, USA
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83756
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Abstract
Esophageal disease is common. Fluoroscopy with or without fast cine-sequences is able to depict swallowing dynamics precisely and therefore is used in cases with swallowing disturbance, achalasia or diverticula etc. It is performed in addition to primary endoscopy. There is no evidence based indication for MRI in these settings as it is not to rule out post-surgical fistula and incompetence. Endoscopy and endosonography are gold standard for the depiction as well as staging of esophageal tumors hence differentiation of the esophageal wall layers and detection of suspicious lymph nodes is possible. And from both, biopsies may be taken. New techniques as OCT (optical coherence tomography) can demonstrate in situ carcinoma and therefore helps to decide for limited treatments as mucosectomy. For today multimodular treatment strategies in esophageal carcinoma the T-stage will lead to the treatment decision whereas the nodal-stage will give information about the prognosis. As a matter of fact endoscopy is unable to pass a stenosis esophageal tumor in up to 50% of the cases and will therefore not be able to give precise information on both T- and N-stage resulting in a good indication for MRI. Fetal MRI of the chest is a new topic in which MRI seems to be superior to ultrasonography.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Krupski-Berdien
- Abteilung für diagnostische und interventionelle Radiologie, Krankenhaus Reinbek St.-Adolf-Stift, Reinbek.
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83757
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Abstract
The introduction of swine or avian influenza (AI) viruses in the human population can set the stage for a pandemic, and many fear that the Asian H5N1 AI virus will become the next pandemic virus. This article first compares the pathogenesis of avian, swine and human influenza viruses in their natural hosts. The major aim was to evaluate the zoonotic potential of swine and avian viruses, and the possible role of pigs in the transmission of AI viruses to humans. Cross-species transfers of swine and avian influenza to humans have been documented on several occasions, but all these viruses lacked the critical capacity to spread from human-to-human. The extreme virulence of H5N1 in humans has been associated with excessive virus replication in the lungs and a prolonged overproduction of cytokines by the host, but there remain many questions about the exact viral cell and tissue tropism. Though pigs are susceptible to several AI subtypes, including H5N1, there is clearly a serious barrier to infection of pigs with such viruses. AI viruses frequently undergo reassortment in pigs, but there is no proof for a role of pigs in the generation of the 1957 or 1968 pandemic reassortants, or in the transmission of H5N1 or other wholly avian viruses to humans. The major conclusion is that cross-species transmission of influenza viruses per se is insufficient to start a human influenza pandemic and that animal influenza viruses must undergo dramatic but largely unknown genetic changes to become established in the human population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Van Reeth
- Laboratory of Virology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University, Belgium.
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83758
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Guo XX, Zeng L, Lee WH, Zhang Y, Jin Y. Isolation and cloning of a metalloproteinase from king cobra snake venom. Toxicon 2007; 49:954-65. [PMID: 17337026 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxicon.2007.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2006] [Revised: 01/09/2007] [Accepted: 01/11/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A 50 kDa fibrinogenolytic protease, ohagin, from the venom of Ophiophagus hannah was isolated by a combination of gel filtration, ion-exchange and heparin affinity chromatography. Ohagin specifically degraded the alpha-chain of human fibrinogen and the proteolytic activity was completely abolished by EDTA, but not by PMSF, suggesting it is a metalloproteinase. It dose-dependently inhibited platelet aggregation induced by ADP, TMVA and stejnulxin. The full sequence of ohagin was deduced by cDNA cloning and confirmed by protein sequencing and peptide mass fingerprinting. The full-length cDNA sequence of ohagin encodes an open reading frame of 611 amino acids that includes signal peptide, proprotein and mature protein comprising metalloproteinase, disintegrin-like and cysteine-rich domains, suggesting it belongs to P-III class metalloproteinase. In addition, P-III class metalloproteinases from the venom glands of Naja atra, Bungarus multicinctus and Bungarus fasciatus were also cloned in this study. Sequence analysis and phylogenetic analysis indicated that metalloproteinases from elapid snake venoms form a new subgroup of P-III SVMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Xi Guo
- Biotoxin Units, Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms, Kunming Institute of Zoology, The Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
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83759
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Abstract
Influenza A/H5N1 (avian influenza) has now caused 258 human infections (as of November 13, 2006), with an approximate 50% mortality rate. Because the virus is novel in terms of antigenic type and causes infection and illness, and because humans have no pre-existing immunity, the conditions for a possible pandemic exist. Additionally, wild migratory birds appear to be spreading the virus across ever larger geographic areas, and newer clade 2 influenza A/H5N1 viruses have begun to emerge. The US Congressional Budget Office has formally modeled the likely consequences of pandemic influenza and estimates that up to 2 million of the US population might die, with up to 40% of all workers ill for as long as 3 or more weeks. This brief overview will review basic virologic, immunologic and epidemiologic information relevant to understanding and preparing for this threat. In particular, the role of avian influenza vaccines will be reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregory A Poland
- Mayo Vaccine Research Group, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
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83760
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Lu H, Cai L, Mu LN, Lu QY, Zhao J, Cui Y, Sul JH, Zhou XF, Ding BG, Elashoff RM, Marshall J, Yu SZ, Jiang QW, Zhang ZF. Dietary mineral and trace element intake and squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus in a Chinese population. Nutr Cancer 2007; 55:63-70. [PMID: 16965242 DOI: 10.1207/s15327914nc5501_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
Few studies have been conducted in low-selenium areas of China to assess the relationships between dietary intake of selenium and zinc and the risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the esophagus (SCCE). We studied dietary mineral and trace element intake and risk of SCCE in a population- based, case-control study in Taixing, China, in 2000. A total of 218 SCCE patients and 415 population healthy controls were interviewed using a standard dietary and health questionnaire. The median and quartiles were calculated to represent the average level and distribution of selected dietary minerals and trace elements estimated by the Chinese Standard Tables of Food Composition. The adjusted odds ratios (ORs) comparing the highest with the lowest quartiles were 0.30 (95% confidence intervals, CIs = 0.13-0.67) for selenium intake and 0.28 (95% CI = 0.11-0.70) for zinc intake with obvious dose-dependent patterns (P values for trend = 0.01). The adjusted OR for the combined effect of selenium and zinc intake was 0.53 (95% CI = 0.29-0.96) after controlling for potential confounding factors, including age, gender, educational level, body mass index, and total energy intake. Our results suggested that the potential joint effect of zinc and selenium might contribute to SCCE risk. Increased dietary intake of selenium and zinc may decrease the risk of SCCE in a low-selenium area of China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hua Lu
- Department of Epidemiology, Fujian Medical University, Fujian, Fuzhou, China
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83761
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Abstract
PURPOSE A review of the avian influenza A/H5N1 virus, including human cases, viral transmission, clinical features, vaccines and antivirals, surveillance plans, infection control, and emergency response plans, is presented. SUMMARY The World Health Organization (WHO) considers the avian influenza A/H5N1 virus a public health risk with pandemic potential. The next human influenza pandemic, if caused by the avian influenza A/H5N1 virus, is estimated to have a potential mortality rate of more than a hundred million. Outbreaks in poultry have been associated with human transmission. WHO has documented 258 confirmed human infections with a mortality rate greater than 50%. Bird-to-human transmission of the avian influenza virus is likely by the oral-fecal route. The most effective defense against an influenza pandemic would be a directed vaccine to elicit a specific immune response toward the strain or strains of the influenza virus. However, until there is an influenza pandemic, there is no evidence that vaccines or antivirals used in the treatment or prevention of such an outbreak would decrease morbidity or mortality. Surveillance of the bird and human populations for the highly pathogenic H5N1 is being conducted. Infection-control measures and an emergency response plan are discussed. CONCLUSION Avian influenza virus A/H5N1 is a public health threat that has the potential to cause serious illness and death in humans. Understanding its pathology, transmission, clinical features, and pharmacologic treatments and preparing for the prevention and management of its outbreak will help avoid its potentially devastating consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer K Thomas
- Experiential Program, School of Pharmacy, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD 21229, USA.
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83762
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Zeka A, Mannetje A, Zaridze D, Szeszenia-Dabrowska N, Rudnai P, Lissowska J, Fabiánová E, Mates D, Bencko V, Navratilova M, Cassidy A, Janout V, Travier N, Fevotte J, Fletcher T, Brennan P, Boffetta P. Lung cancer and occupation in nonsmokers: a multicenter case-control study in Europe. Epidemiology 2007; 17:615-23. [PMID: 17068414 DOI: 10.1097/01.ede.0000239582.92495.b5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tobacco smoking is the main cause for lung cancer worldwide, making it difficult to examine the carcinogenic role of other risk factors because of possible confounding by smoking. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the association between lung cancer and occupation independent of smoking. METHODS A case-control study of lung cancer was carried out between March 1998 and January 2002 in 16 centers from 7 European countries, including 223 never-smoking cases and 1039 controls. Information on lifestyle and occupation was obtained through detailed questionnaires. Job and industries were classified as entailing exposure to known or suspected carcinogens; in addition, expert assessment provided exposure estimates to specific agents. RESULTS The odds ratio of lung cancer among women employed for more than 12 years in suspected high-risk occupations was 1.75 (95% confidence interval = 0.63-4.85). A comparable increase in risk was not detected for employment in established high-risk occupations or among men. Increased risk of lung cancer was suggested among individuals exposed to nonferrous metal dust and fumes, crystalline silica, and organic solvents. CONCLUSION Occupations were found to play a limited role in lung cancer risk among never-smokers. Jobs entailing exposure to suspected lung carcinogens should receive priority in future studies among women. Nonferrous metal dust and fumes and silica may exert a carcinogenic effect independently from smoking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariana Zeka
- International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
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83763
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Imai M, Ninomiya A, Minekawa H, Notomi T, Ishizaki T, Van Tu P, Tien NTK, Tashiro M, Odagiri T. Rapid diagnosis of H5N1 avian influenza virus infection by newly developed influenza H5 hemagglutinin gene-specific loop-mediated isothermal amplification method. J Virol Methods 2007; 141:173-80. [PMID: 17218021 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2006.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2006] [Revised: 11/30/2006] [Accepted: 12/06/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Reverse transcriptase loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) is a unique gene amplification method that can be completed within 35 min at 62.5 degrees C. In the present study, RT-LAMP was used to develop a rapid and sensitive laboratory diagnostic system for the H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The sensitivity of the system was 0.1-0.01 plaque-forming units per reaction for HPAI-H5N1 viruses belonging to the genetically and antigenically distinct clade 1, represented by A/Vietnam/JP1203/2004, and clade 2, represented by A/Indonesia/JP283/2006. This RT-LAMP sensitivity is 10-fold higher than the sensitivity of standard one-step RT-PCR. By using viral RNAs extracted from avian influenza viruses of H1-H15 hemagglutinin (HA) subtypes and human pathogenic respiratory viruses, it was confirmed that the RT-LAMP system amplifies specifically RNA of the H5 subtype virus. The system detected H5-HA genes in throat swabs collected from humans as well as from wild birds. These results suggest that the present RT-LAMP system is a useful diagnostic tool for surveillance of recent outbreaks of the HPAI-H5N1 virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaki Imai
- Laboratory of Influenza Viruses, Department of Virology 3, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-Murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
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83764
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Chen D, Chan R, Waxman S, Jing Y. Buthionine sulfoximine enhancement of arsenic trioxide-induced apoptosis in leukemia and lymphoma cells is mediated via activation of c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase and up-regulation of death receptors. Cancer Res 2007; 66:11416-23. [PMID: 17145888 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-06-0409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The mechanism of apoptosis induced by treatment with As(2)O(3) alone or in combination with buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) was studied in NB4, U937, Namalwa, and Jurkat cells. As(2)O(3) at concentrations <2 micromol/L induced apoptosis in NB4 cells and Namalwa cells but not in U937 and Jurkat cells. As(2)O(3)-induced apoptosis in NB4 cells and Namalwa cells correlated with increase of H(2)O(2) and caspase activation without activation of c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK). BSO (10 micromol/L) depleted the reduced form of intracellular glutathione without inducing apoptosis but synergized with 1 micromol/L As(2)O(3) to induce apoptosis in all four cell lines. This synergy correlated with JNK activation. Treatment with As(2)O(3) plus BSO, but not with As(2)O(3) alone, increased the levels of death receptor (DR) 5 protein and caspase-8 cleavage. The JNK inhibitor SP600125 inhibited the increase in DR5 protein and attenuated apoptosis induced by treatment with As(2)O(3) plus BSO. These observations suggest that a DR-mediated pathway activated by JNK is involved in apoptosis induced by treatment with As(2)O(3) plus BSO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duo Chen
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, New York 10029-6547, USA
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83765
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Hao DC, Zhu PH, Yang SL, Yang L. Enhanced production of human Cytochrome P450 2C9 by Escherichia coli BL21(DE3)pLysS through the novel use of grey relational analysis and Plackett–Burman design. World J Microbiol Biotechnol 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/s11274-006-9194-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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83766
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Hung KF, Chang CS, Liu CJ, Lui MT, Cheng CY, Kao SY. Differential expression of E-cadherin in metastatic lesions comparing to primary oral squamous cell carcinoma. J Oral Pathol Med 2007; 35:589-94. [PMID: 17032390 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0714.2006.00474.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The main cause of treatment failure in resectable oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is metastasis. E-cadherin (E-cad) plays a principal role in cell adhesion and motility, and is associated with OSCC progression. The aim of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of E-cad expression in OSCC with lymph node metastasis which had radical neck dissection done. METHOD Immunohistochemistry was used to detect E-cad expression in normal oral mucosa (NOM) (n = 10), oral precancerous lesions (OPLs) (n = 20), primary OSCC (n = 45), and their paired metastatic lesions (n = 45). E-cad immunoreactivity correlated with the clinicopathologic features. RESULTS E-cadherin immunoreactivity was progressively reduced in the NOM followed by OPLs and primary OSCC (58%). It decreased significantly in the advanced stages of OSCC. However, the increase in E-cad immunoreactivity was observed in the majority (60%) of metastatic lesions in relation to primary OSCC. Patients with such increased or positive immunoreactivity of E-cad in metastatic lesions exhibited worse prognosis. CONCLUSION The findings suggested a dynamic change in E-cad immunoreactivity during tumorigenesis and metastasis of OSCC. In a multivariate analysis, E-cad immunoreactivity in metastasis lesions (odds ratio 3.74, 95% CI 1.15-14.67; P = 0.040) implied the potential role of mortality predictors for OSCC cases with nodal involvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- K-F Hung
- Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Department of Dentistry, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
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83767
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Abstract
Vertical transmission is the main path of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB). According to the development history of embryo and the possible mechanism of vertical transmission, it's supposed that the effective method to prevent vertical transmission should be immunoprophylaxis in both mother and baby. Pregnant woman with positive HBsAg should receive monthly injection of 200 IU hepatitis B immunoglobulin (HBIg, or 400 IU once if HBV DNA is positive) from the 16th week after pregnancy (at from the 20th week). The newborn child should receive combined immunization (active/passive), namely injection of 200 IU HBIg within 24 hours (better within 6 hours) after birth, and one more repeat after 2 weeks. HBV vaccination should be carried out at the same time in order to acquire the best protection result. The treatment of CHB mainly depends on antiviral therapy, and systemic immunization may also contribute to the efficacy of antiviral drugs. A simple classification method of CHB was suggested according to serum HBV DNA level in this article, which could be easily used in clinical practice.
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83768
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Cavazos-Rocha N, Vera-Cabrera L, Welsh-Lozano O, Waksman-de-Torres N, de la Luz Salazar-Cavazos M. Simultaneous determination and validation of antimicrobials in plasma and tissue of actinomycetoma by high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array and fluorescence detection. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2007; 43:1775-81. [PMID: 17289329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2006.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2006] [Revised: 12/09/2006] [Accepted: 12/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A simple, precise, and reliable chromatographic method was developed for the simultaneous determination in plasma and infected tissue of five antimicrobials proposed for the treatment of actinomycotic mycetoma: amoxicillin, trimethoprim, linezolid, sulfamethoxazole and garenoxacin. Separation of the analytes was achieved on an Atlantis dC18 column (150 mm x 4.6 mm, ID 5 microm) with a mobile phase composed of acetonitrile and trifluoroacetic acid (ATF) 0.1% (v/v) using a gradient program. The detection was carried out using a diode array detector at 254 nm and in a fluorescence detector at wavelengths of excitation and emission of 292 nm and 392 nm for linezolid and sulfamethoxazole, and 292 nm and 408 nm for garenoxacin, respectively. The intraday precision was in the range of 0.7-15% of relative standard deviations (%R.S.D.) for plasma and 1-18% for tissue. Linearity range was from 2.4 to 20 microg/ml for amoxicillin, 0.3 to 20 microg/ml for trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole and linezolid, and 0.3 to 10 microg/ml for garenoxacin. Acetonitrile was used to precipitate proteins from plasma. Recoveries in plasma ranged from 71% to 118% and in infected tissue from 78% to 122%. Limits of detection (LODs) were 1.2 and 0.5 microg/ml for amoxicillin in plasma and tissue, respectively and 0.15 and 1.2 microg/ml in plasma and tissue, respectively for the other antimicrobials. The method can be applied for individual or simultaneous determination of the antimicrobials in plasma and tissue of mouse infected with actinomycetoma.
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83769
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Aragonés N, Ramis R, Pollán M, Pérez-Gómez B, Gómez-Barroso D, Lope V, Boldo EI, García-Pérez J, López-Abente G. Oesophageal cancer mortality in Spain: a spatial analysis. BMC Cancer 2007; 7:3. [PMID: 17201909 PMCID: PMC1781461 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-7-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2006] [Accepted: 01/03/2007] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Oesophageal carcinoma is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Its incidence and mortality rates show a wide geographical variation at a world and regional level. Geographic mapping of age-standardized, cause-specific death rates at a municipal level could be a helpful and powerful tool for providing clues leading to a better understanding of its aetiology. Methods This study sought to describe the geographic distribution of oesophageal cancer mortality for Spain's 8077 towns, using the autoregressive spatial model proposed by Besag, York and Mollié. Maps were plotted, depicting standardised mortality ratios, smoothed relative risk (RR) estimates, and the spatial pattern of the posterior probability of RR being greater than 1. Results Important differences associated with area of residence were observed in risk of dying from oesophageal cancer in Spain during the study period (1989–1998). Among men, excess risk appeared across the north of the country, along a band spanning the length of the Cantabrian coastline, Navarre, the north of Castile & León and the north-west of La Rioja. Excess risk was likewise observed in the provinces of Cadiz and part of Seville in Andalusia, the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, and some towns in the Barcelona and Gerona areas. Among women, there was a noteworthy absence of risk along the mid-section of the Cantabrian seaboard, and increases in mortality, not observed for men, in the west of Extremadura and south-east of Andalusia. Conclusion These major gender- and area-related geographical differences in risk would seem to reflect differences in the prevalence of some well-established and modifiable risk factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity and diet. In addition, excess risks were in evidence for both sexes in some areas, possibly suggesting the implication of certain local environmental or socio-cultural factors. From a public health standpoint, small-area studies could be very useful for identifying locations where epidemiological research and intervention measures ought to receive priority, given the potential for reducing risk in certain places.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuria Aragonés
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
| | - Rebeca Ramis
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
| | - Marina Pollán
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Pérez-Gómez
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
| | - Diana Gómez-Barroso
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
| | - Virginia Lope
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
| | - Elena Isabel Boldo
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
| | - Javier García-Pérez
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
| | - Gonzalo López-Abente
- Environmental and Cancer Epidemiology Unit, National Centre for Epidemiology, Carlos III Institute of Health. Madrid, Spain
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83770
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Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a rare malignancy in most part of the world and it is one of the most confusing, commonly misdiagnosed and poorly understood diseases. The cancer is an Epstein-Barr virus-associated malignancy with a remarkable racial and geographical distribution. It is highly prevalent in southern Asia where the disease occurs at a prevalence about a 100-fold higher compared with other populations not at risk. The etiology of NPC is thought to be associated with a complex interaction of genetic, viral, environmental and dietary factors. Thanks to the advancements in genomics, proteomics and bioinformatics in recent decades, more understanding of the disease etiology, carcinogenesis and progression has been gained. Research into these components may unravel the pathways in NPC development and potentially decipher the molecular characteristics of the malignancy. In the era of molecular medicine, specific treatment to the potential target using technologies such as immunotherapy and RNAi becomes formulating from bench to bedside application and thus makes molecular biomarker discovery more meaningful for NPC management. In this article, the latest molecular biomarker discovery and progress in NPC is reviewed with respect to the diagnosis, monitoring, treatment and prognostication of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Chi-Shing Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Room 1305, 13/F, Block R, 30 Gascoigne Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, PR China.
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83771
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83772
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Sandrock C. Update on Avian Influenza for Critical Care Physicians. Intensive Care Med 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/978-0-387-49518-7_90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Human influenza pandemics over the last 100 years have been caused by H1, H2, and H3 subtypes of influenza A viruses. More recently, avian influenza viruses have been found to directly infect humans from their avian hosts. The recent emergence, host expansion, and spread of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 subtype in Asia has heightened concerns globally, both in regards to mortality of HPAI H5N1 in humans and the potential of a new pandemic. In response, many agencies and organizations have been working collaboratively to develop early detection systems, preparedness plans, and objectives for further research. As a result, there has been a large influx of published information regarding potential risk, surveillance, prevention and control of highly pathogenic avian influenza, particularly in regards to animal to human and subsequent human to human transmission. This chapter will review the current human infections with avian influenza and its public health and medical implications.
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83773
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Hu SP, Luan JA, Li B, Chen JX, Cai KL, Huang LQ, Xu XY. Genetic link between Chaoshan and other Chinese Han populations: Evidence from HLA-A and HLA-B allele frequency distribution. Am J Phys Anthropol 2007; 132:140-50. [PMID: 16883565 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.20460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The genetic polymorphism of HLA-A and HLA-B loci was investigated in 505 Chaoshanese using PCR-SSP method. Among the HLA-A alleles detected, A*11 (35.64%) was most frequent, followed by A*02 (31.78%). Of 34 HLA-B alleles tested, 30 were observed, in which B*60 (21.68%), B*46 (14.46%), and B*58 (10.69%) were highly predominant. Comparison was made with other nine Chinese Han ethnic groups covering the Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The high frequent alleles found in Chaoshanese were also common in other Chinese groups compared though the frequency levels varied from group to group. The phylogenic tree analysis based on the HLA-A and -B allele frequencies of all the 10 Chinese ethnic groups revealed that Chaoshanese, while clustering in general with the southern China-related Han Chinese, had the highest affinity to the Mainland Minnanese, but separated distinctively from the northern Han Chinese. The study, however, was yet to confirm the hypothesis of the Central Plains Han origin of Chaoshanese. Interestingly, the alleles (B*46, B*38, and B*58) and the related haplotypes (A*02-B*46 and A*33-B*58) that are positively associated with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), a disease prevailing predominantly among southern Chinese, were always at much higher frequencies among southern Chinese than among northern Chinese, whereas A*31 and B*13, the two alleles with highly protective effects for NPC, and the associated haplotype A*30-B*13 were predominantly high in northern Chinese. The different genetic background between northern and southern China may explain, at least partially, the prevalence of NPC among southern Chinese.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Ping Hu
- Center for Molecular Biology and Forensic Genetics Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515031, People's Republic of China.
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83774
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Williams JV. Avian influenza viruses: a severe threat of a pandemic in children? Pediatric Infectious Diseases Revisited 2007. [PMCID: PMC7123517 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-7643-8099-1_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Influenza virus is a leading cause of human respiratory illnesses, causing significant annual morbidity and mortality. The greatest severity of illness due to seasonal influenza occurs in infants less than 6 months of age and the elderly. In recent years, avian influenza virus infections with high mortality have occurred in humans. Many of these avian influenza virus infections have occurred in children, and unlike seasonal influenza, the most severe disease and highest death rates have occurred in children and young adults. Treatment and prevention options for avian influenza viruses are limited at present, although much research effort is directed toward these areas. Avian-derived influenza viruses are potential causes of pandemic influenza that could have a dramatic impact on children worldwide.
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83775
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83776
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Palmer HS, Kelso EB, Lockhart JC, Sommerhoff CP, Plevin R, Goh FG, Ferrell WR. Protease-activated receptor 2 mediates the proinflammatory effects of synovial mast cells. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 56:3532-40. [DOI: 10.1002/art.22936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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83777
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Harutsugu K, Watanabe K, Daito M. The role of anti immune response on adenosine stimulated macrophages. Pediatric Dental Journal 2007; 17:40-46. [DOI: 10.1016/s0917-2394(07)70093-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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83778
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Su M, Liu M, Tian DP, Li XY, Zhang GH, Yang HL, Fan X, Huang HH, Gao YX. Temporal trends of esophageal cancer during 1995-2004 in Nanao Island, an extremely high-risk area in China. Eur J Epidemiol 2007; 22:43-8. [PMID: 17195051 DOI: 10.1007/s10654-006-9086-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2006] [Accepted: 11/15/2006] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of our study was to investigate the temporal malignant tumor incidence rates among the 70,000 residents at the relatively isolated Nanao Island in South China Sea. The data on all malignant tumor cases from Nanao Cancer Registry during 1995-2004 were coded, computerized, and analyzed using the software SPSS10.0. The tumor incident cases, crude incident rate, age-standardized incidence rate, their sex distribution and temporal trend were assessed. A total of 1450 new cancer cases (990 males and 460 females) were identified. The annual average age-standardized incidence rate (ASR) of malignant tumors was 208.18/100,000. The age-standardized incidence rate of the ten leading cancers in both sexes combined per 100,000 population were 74.47 for esophageal cancer (EC), 34.81 for cardiac cancer (CC), 25.66 for liver cancer, 26.01 for lung cancer, 18.52 for stomach cancer, 4.45 for nasopharyngeal cancer, 3.91 for breast cancer, 2.53 for colon/rectum cancer, 2.45 for bladder cancer and 1.92 for pancreatic cancer. These ten types of cancers make up to 93% of all cancer cases, with EC and CC being the most prevalent and making up 52% of the total cases. The incidence rates of esophagus, liver, lung, breast, nasopharyngeal, and colon/rectum cancers showed increasing trends during the period from 1995 to 2004 in Nanao Island. Astounding the EC ASR were 72-150/100,000 among male and 26-64/100,000 among female in Nanao Island during 1995-2004. The EC incidence rate in Nanao population is among the highest across the world, which suggests that there are potential genetic and/or environmental factors affecting this particular population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Su
- Department of Oncology and Pathology, The Key Immunopathology Laboratory of Guangdong Province, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong 515031, China.
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83779
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Abstract
Avian influenza (AI) is a complex infection of birds, of which the ecology and epidemiology have undergone substantial changes over the last decade. Avian influenza viruses infecting poultry can be divided into two groups. The very virulent viruses cause highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), with flock mortality as high as 100%. These viruses have been restricted to subtypes H5 and H7, although not all H5 and H7 viruses cause HPAI. All other viruses cause a milder, primarily respiratory, disease (low pathogenic avian influenza, LPAI), unless exacerbated by other infections or environmental conditions. Until recently, HPAI viruses were rarely isolated from wild birds, but for LPAI viruses extremely high isolation rates have been recorded in surveillance studies, particularly in feral waterfowl. In recent years, there have been costly outbreaks of HPAI in poultry in Italy, the Netherlands and Canada and in each of these countries millions of birds were slaughtered to bring the outbreaks under control. However, these outbreaks tend to have been overshadowed by the H5N1 HPAI virus, initially isolated in China, that has now spread in poultry and/or wild birds throughout Asia and into Europe and Africa, resulting in the death or culling of hundreds of millions of poultry and posing a significant zoonosis threat. Since the 1990s, AI infections due to two subtypes, LPAI H9N2 and HPAI H5N1,have been widespread in poultry across large areas of the world, resulting in a modified eco-epidemiology and a zoonotic potential. An extraordinary effort is required to manage these epidemics from both the human and animal health perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Capua
- OIE, FAO and National Reference Laboratory for Newcastle Disease and Avian Influenza, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, Padua, Italy.
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83780
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Zhang Y, Shi G, Zheng J, Tang Z, Gao P, Lv Y, Guo F, Jia Q. The protective effects of N-n-butyl haloperidol iodide on myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury in rats by inhibiting Egr-1 overexpression. Cell Physiol Biochem 2007; 20:639-48. [PMID: 17762190 DOI: 10.1159/000107547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/11/2007] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
AIMS Our previous studies have shown that N-n-butyl haloperidol iodide (F(2)) can antagonize myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury by blocking intracellular Ca(2+) overload. The present study is to test the hypothesis that the protective effects of F(2) on myocardial I/R injury is mediated by downregulating Egr-1 expression. METHODS The Sprague-Dawley rat myocardial I/R model and cardiomyocyte hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) model were established. With antisense Egr-1 oligodeoxyribonucleotide (ODN), the relationship between Egr-1 expression and myocardial I/R injury was investigated. Hemodynamic parameters, myeloperoxidase (MPO), cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) were measured to assess the degree of injury and inflammation of myocardial tissues and cells. Egr-1 mRNA and protein expressions were examined by Northern-blot and Western-blot analyses. RESULTS Treatment with antisense Egr-1 ODN significantly reduced Egr-1 protein expression and attenuated injury of myocardial tissues and cells. Meanwhile, treatment with F(2) significantly inhibited the overexpression of Egr-1 mRNA and protein in myocardial tissues and cells. Consistent with downregulation of Egr-1 expression by F(2), inflammation and other damages were significantly relieved evidenced by the amelioration of hemodynamics, the reduction in myocardial MPO activity as well as the decrease in leakage of cTnI and release of TNF-alpha from cardiomyocyte. CONCLUSIONS These results suggested that the overexpression of Egr-1 was causative in myocardial I/R or H/R injury, and F(2) could protect myocardial tissues and cells from I/R or H/R injury, which was largely due to the inhibition of Egr-1 overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong, China
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83781
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Abstract
Highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza viruses have become endemic in poultry populations throughout Southeast Asia and continue to infect humans with a greater than 50% case fatality rate. So far, human-to-human transmission of these viruses has been limited. Here, we discuss the molecular features of H5N1 influenza viruses that might affect their pathogenicity, and explain the current lack of efficient human-to-human transmission. Such knowledge is critical in evaluating the pandemic risk these viruses pose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Neumann
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kyoko Shinya
- The Avian Zoonosis Research Centre, Tottori University, Tottori, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Kawaoka
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Division of Virology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology and International Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
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83782
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Abstract
Major affective disorders and schizophrenia are among the most common brain diseases worldwide and their predisposition is influenced by a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors. So far, traditional linkage mapping studies for these complex disorders have not achieved the same success as the positional cloning of genes for Mendelian diseases. The struggle to identify susceptibility genes for complex disorders has stimulated the development of alternative approaches, including studies in genetically isolated populations. Since isolated populations are likely to have both a reduced number of genetic vulnerability factors and environmental background and are therefore considered to be more homogeneous compared to outbred populations, the use of isolated populations in genetic studies is expected to improve the chance of finding susceptibility loci and genes. Here we review the role of isolated populations, based on linkage and association studies, in the identification of susceptibility genes for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tine Venken
- Applied Molecular Genomics Group, Department of Molecular Genetics, VIB, Antwerpen, Belgium
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83783
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Li H, Luo W, Zeng Q, Lin Z, Luo H, Zhang Y. Method for the determination of blood methotrexate by high performance liquid chromatography with online post-column electrochemical oxidation and fluorescence detection. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2007; 845:164-8. [PMID: 16890029 DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2006.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2006] [Revised: 07/02/2006] [Accepted: 07/07/2006] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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83784
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Abstract
Rhubarb has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine since ancient times and today it is still present in various herbal preparations. In this review the toxicological and anti-neoplastic potentials of the main anthraquinones from Rhubarb, Rheum palmatum, will be highlighted. It is interesting to note that although the chemical structures of various anthraquinones in this plant are similar, their bioactivities are rather different. The most abundant anthraquinone of rhubarb, emodin, was capable of inhibiting cellular proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and prevention of metastasis. These capabilities are reported to act through tyrosine kinases, phosphoinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), protein kinase C (PKC), NF-kappa B (NF-kappaB), and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascades. Aloe-emodin is another major component in rhubarb found to have anti-tumor properties. Its anti-proliferative property has been demonstrated to be through the p53 and its downstream p21 pathway. Our recent proteomic study also suggests that the molecular targets of these two anthraquinones are different. However, both components were found to be able to potentiate the anti-proliferation of various chemotherapeutic agents. Rhein is the other major rhubarb anthraquinone, although less well studied. This compound could effectively inhibit the uptake of glucose in tumor cells, caused changes in membrane-associated functions and led to cell death. Interestingly, all three major rhubarb anthraquinones were reported to have in vitro phototoxic. This re-evaluation of an old remedy suggests that several bioactive anthraquinones of rhubarb possess promising anti-cancer properties and could have a broad therapeutic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Huang
- Department of Community, Occupational and Family Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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83785
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Bertrand J, Di Polo A, McKerracher L. Enhanced survival and regeneration of axotomized retinal neurons by repeated delivery of cell-permeable C3-like Rho antagonists. Neurobiol Dis 2007; 25:65-72. [PMID: 17011202 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbd.2006.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2006] [Revised: 08/16/2006] [Accepted: 08/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Inactivation of Rho GTPase with a single intraocular injection of Rho antagonists stimulates survival and regeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after optic nerve injury. However, this effect is short-lived. Here we tested the impact of multiple injections of C3-like Rho antagonists on RGC viability and axon regeneration after optic nerve lesion. Our data show that both neuronal survival and axon regeneration were enhanced with repeated delivery of cell-permeable C3. We found an approximately 1.5-fold increase in RCG survival when additional Rho antagonist injections were performed after the first week from the time of lesion. In contrast, increased regeneration required early inactivation of Rho and injections performed in the second week did not further enhance regenerative outcome. These results reveal differences in the length of the therapeutic windows through which Rho inactivation acts on RGC survival or regeneration after axotomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Bertrand
- Université de Montréal, Département de Pathologie et biologie cellulaire, 2900 Edouard Montpetit, Pavillon Roger-Gaudry, S-520, Montréal, Québec, Canada H3T 1J4
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83786
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Gilbert M, Xiao X, Chaitaweesub P, Kalpravidh W, Premashthira S, Boles S, Slingenbergh J. Avian influenza, domestic ducks and rice agriculture in Thailand. Agric Ecosyst Environ 2007; 119:409-415. [PMID: 18418464 PMCID: PMC2311503 DOI: 10.1016/j.agee.2006.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) caused by H5N1 viruses has become a global scale problem which first emerged in southern China and from there spread to other countries in Southeast and East Asia, where it was first confirmed in end 2003. In previous work, geospatial analyses demonstrated that free grazing ducks played critical role in the epidemiology of the disease in Thailand in the winter 2004/2005, both in terms of HPAI emergence and spread. This study explored the geographic association between free grazing duck census counts and current statistics on the spatial distribution of rice crops in Thailand, in particular the crop calendar of rice production. The analysis was carried out using both district level rice statistics and rice distribution data predicted with the aid of remote sensing, using a rice-detection algorithm. The results indicated a strong association between the number of free grazing ducks and the number of months during which second-crop rice harvest takes place, as well as with the rice crop intensity as predicted by remote sensing. These results confirmed that free grazing duck husbandry was strongly driven by agricultural land use and rice crop intensity, and that this later variable can be readily predicted using remote sensing. Analysis of rice cropping patterns may provide an indication of the location of populations of free grazing ducks in other countries with similar mixed duck and rice production systems and less detailed duck census data. Apart from free ranging ducks and rice cropping, the role of hydrology and seasonality of wetlands and water bodies in the HPAI risk analysis is also discussed in relation to the presumed dry season aggregation of wild waterfowl and aquatic poultry offering much scope for virus transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marius Gilbert
- Biological Control and Spatial Ecology, Université Libre de Bruxelles CP160/12, Av FD Roosevelt 50, B1050 Brussels, Belgium
- * Corresponding author. Tel.: +32 2 650 37 80; fax: +32 2 650 24 45. E-mail address: (M. Gilbert)
| | - Xiangming Xiao
- Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans and Space, University of New Hampshire, 39 College Road, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | | | - Wantanee Kalpravidh
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Stephen Boles
- Institute for the Study of Earth, Oceans and Space, University of New Hampshire, 39 College Road, Durham, NH 03824, USA
| | - Jan Slingenbergh
- Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Viale delle Terme di Caracalla 00100, Rome, Italy
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83787
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Zhang D, Tai YC, Wong CHS, Tai LK, Koay ESC, Chen CS. Molecular response of leukemia HL-60 cells to genistein treatment, a proteomics study. Leuk Res 2007; 31:75-82. [PMID: 16616778 DOI: 10.1016/j.leukres.2006.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2006] [Revised: 02/20/2006] [Accepted: 02/27/2006] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
Genistein (GEN) is a natural protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor. We analyzed the molecular response of HL-60 cells to GEN treatment by gel-based proteomics approach. Fourteen differentially expressed proteins which are functionally involved in metabolism, cell signaling, RNA processing, cell proliferation and motility, and chaperones were identified. Both the dose- and time-dependent up-regulation of Hsp70 protein 8 and heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) H1, and the down-regulation of Rab14, hnRNP C and stathmin-1 by GEN were verified by immunoblot analysis. Our novel findings provide insightful clues to the potential therapeutic targets for leukemia treatment in diverse tyrosine kinase-dependent cellular pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daohai Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National University Hospital, 5 Lower Kent Ridge, Singapore 119074, Singapore
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83788
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Sandrock C. Update on Avian Influenza for Critical Care Physicians. Yearbook of Intensive Care and Emergency Medicine 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-49433-1_90] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Human influenza pandemics over the last 100 years have been caused by H1, H2, and H3 subtypes of influenza A viruses. More recently, avian influenza viruses have been found to directly infect humans from their avian hosts. The recent emergence, host expansion, and spread of a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 subtype in Asia has heightened concerns globally, both in regards to mortality of HPAI H5N1 in humans and the potential of a new pandemic. In response, many agencies and organizations have been working collaboratively to develop early detection systems, preparedness plans, and objectives for further research. As a result, there has been a large influx of published information regarding potential risk, surveillance, prevention and control of highly pathogenic avian influenza, particularly in regards to animal to human and subsequent human to human transmission. This chapter will review the current human infections with avian influenza and its public health and medical implications.
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83789
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Abstract
The uneven standards of surveillance, human- or animal-based, for zoonotic diseases or pathogens maintained and transmitted by wildlife H(R)s, or even domestic species, is a global problem, readily apparent even within the United States, where investment in public health, including surveillance systems, has a long and enviable history. As of 2006, there appears to be little scientific, social, or political consensus that animal-based surveillance for zoonoses merits investment in international infrastructure, other than the fledgling efforts with avian influenza, or targeted nontraditional avenues of surveillance and research. National institutions charged with strategic planning for emerging diseases or intentional releases of zoonotic agents have emphasized improving diagnostic capabilities for detecting human infections, modifying the immune status of human or domestic animals through vaccines, producing better antiviral or antibacterial drugs, and enhancing human-based surveillance as an early warning system. With the possible exception of extensive human vaccination, each of these approaches target post-spillover events and none of these avenues of research will have the slightest impact on reducing the risk of additional emergence of viruses or other pathogens from wildlife. Novel schemes of preventing spillover of human pathogens from animal H(R)s can only spring from improving our understanding of the ecological context and biological interactions of pathogen maintenance among H(R)s. Although the benefit derived from investments to improve surveillance and knowledge of zoonotic pathogens circulating among wildlife H(R) populations is uncertain, our experience with HIV and the looming threat of pandemic avian influenza A inform us of the outcomes we can expect by relying on detection of post-spillover events among sentinel humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- James E. Childs
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health and Center for Eco-Epidemiolog, Yale University School of Medicine, 60 College St, 208034, 06520-8034 New Haven, CT USA
| | - John S. Mackenzie
- Centre for Emerging Infectious Diseases, Australian Biosecurity Cooperative Research Centre, Curtin University of Technology, U1987, 6845 Perth, WA Australia
| | - Jürgen A. Richt
- Virus and Prion Diseases of Livestock Research Unit, National Animal Disease Center USDA, 2300 Dayton Ave Ames, 50010 IA USA
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83790
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Ge J, Deng G, Wen Z, Tian G, Wang Y, Shi J, Wang X, Li Y, Hu S, Jiang Y, Yang C, Yu K, Bu Z, Chen H. Newcastle disease virus-based live attenuated vaccine completely protects chickens and mice from lethal challenge of homologous and heterologous H5N1 avian influenza viruses. J Virol 2007; 81:150-8. [PMID: 17050610 PMCID: PMC1797253 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01514-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2006] [Accepted: 10/09/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) has continued to spread and poses a significant threat to both animal and human health. Current influenza vaccine strategies have limitations that prevent their effective use for widespread inoculation of animals in the field. Vaccine strains of Newcastle disease virus (NDV), however, have been used successfully to easily vaccinate large numbers of animals. In this study, we used reverse genetics to construct a NDV that expressed an H5 subtype avian influenza virus (AIV) hemagglutinin (HA). Both a wild-type and a mutated HA open reading frame (ORF) from the HPAIV wild bird isolate, A/Bar-headed goose/Qinghai/3/2005 (H5N1), were inserted into the intergenic region between the P and M genes of the LaSota NDV vaccine strain. The recombinant viruses stably expressing the wild-type and mutant HA genes were found to be innocuous after intracerebral inoculation of 1-day-old chickens. A single dose of the recombinant viruses in chickens induced both NDV- and AIV H5-specific antibodies and completely protected chickens from challenge with a lethal dose of both velogenic NDV and homologous and heterologous H5N1 HPAIV. In addition, BALB/c mice immunized with the recombinant NDV-based vaccine produced H5 AIV-specific antibodies and were completely protected from homologous and heterologous lethal virus challenge. Our results indicate that recombinant NDV is suitable as a bivalent live attenuated vaccine against both NDV and AIV infection in poultry. The recombinant NDV vaccine may also have potential use in high-risk human individuals to control the pandemic spread of lethal avian influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinying Ge
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, CAAS, 427 Maduan Street, Harbin 150001, People's Republic of China
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83791
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Nakanishi K, Yamada J, Takayama C, Oohira A, Fukuda A. NKCC1 activity modulates formation of functional inhibitory synapses in cultured neocortical neurons. Synapse 2007; 61:138-49. [PMID: 17146765 DOI: 10.1002/syn.20352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular Cl(-) concentration ([Cl(-)](i)) in immature neurons is higher than that expected for a passive distribution, therefore the equilibrium potential for chloride is more positive than the resting membrane potential, and the resulting GABA renders immature neurons depolarization. The higher [Cl(-)](i) in immature neurons is thought to be attributed to the uptake of Cl(-) mediated by NKCC1 (Na(+), K(+)-2Cl(-) cotransporter). Thus, a dysfunction of this transporter could affect synaptic development through a GABA(A) receptor-mediated pathway. To test this possibility, we examined the effects of a Cl(-)-uptake inhibitor on the development of synaptic activities of rat neocortical neurons in culture. Chronic treatment with bumetanide at 10 microM during the culture diminished the amplitude of synaptically-driven rhythmic depolarizing potentials (RDPs) in neurons and also decreased the frequency of spontaneous inhibitory postsynaptic currents (sIPSCs) but not of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs). Chronic treatment with bumetanide decreased vesicular GABA transporter (VGAT)-immunopositive particles without affecting paired-pulse ratio of evoked IPSCs (eIPSCs), indicating decrease in the number of functional GABAergic synapses. Acute treatment with bumetanide (10 microM) decreased neuronal [Cl(-)](i), the amplitude of RDPs, and neuronal excitability, while bumetanide had no effect on RDPs and neuronal excitability in the presence of bicuculline. These results suggest that the uptake of Cl(-) by NKCC1 affects the development of inhibitory synapses by promoting a depolarizing GABA-mediated response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Nakanishi
- Department of Perinatology, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi Human Service Center, Kasugai, Aichi, Japan.
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83792
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Chappell MC. Role of ACE, ACE2 and Neprilysin in the Kidney. Frontiers in Research of the Renin-Angiotensin System on Human Disease 2007. [DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4020-6372-5_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
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83793
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Abstract
AIM: To study the expression pattern of Ets-like protein 1 (Elk-1) in human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and to analyze its relationship with clinicopathologic parameters.
METHODS: The expression of Elk-1 in fresh esophageal cancer tissues and their corresponding normal mucosae was detected immunohistochemically (IHC) by means of tissue microarray (TMA). Its correlation with clinical characteristics was evaluated and analyzed by univariate analysis. All statistical analyses were performed by SPSS version 13.0.
RESULTS: Expression level of transcription factor Elk-1 increased in 78.5% (84/107) ESCC tissues compared with their matched normal esophageal epithelium. However, the expression of Elk-1 did not show any obvious correlation with degree of differentiation of esophageal carcinoma (in well-differentiated, moderately-differentiated and poorly-differentiated tumors, the increased expression was 7/8, 60/74, and 19/25, respectively, P > 0.05). Moreover, no obvious correlation was found with lymph node metastasis and depth of invasion.
CONCLUSION: Increased expression of transcription factor Elk-1 may play an important role in esophageal carcinogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- An-Guo Chen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230022, Anhui Province, China
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83794
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Xu KM, Li KS, Smith GJD, Li JW, Tai H, Zhang JX, Webster RG, Peiris JSM, Chen H, Guan Y. Evolution and molecular epidemiology of H9N2 influenza A viruses from quail in southern China, 2000 to 2005. J Virol 2006; 81:2635-45. [PMID: 17192315 PMCID: PMC1865985 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02316-06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
H9N2 influenza viruses have become established and maintain long-term endemicity in terrestrial poultry in Asian countries. Occasionally these viruses transmit to other mammals, including humans. Increasing epidemiological and laboratory findings suggest that quail may be an important host, as they are susceptible to different subtypes of influenza viruses. To better understand the role of quail in influenza virus ecology and evolution, H9N2 viruses isolated from quail during 2000 to 2005 were antigenically and genetically characterized. Our results showed that H9N2 viruses are prevalent year-round in southern China and replicate mainly asymptomatically in the respiratory tract of quail. Genetic analysis revealed that both the G1-like and Ck/Bei-like H9N2 lineages were cocirculating in quail since 2000. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that most of the isolates tested were double- or multiple-reassortant variants, with four G1-like and 16 Ck/Bei-like genotypes recognized. A novel genotype of G1-like virus became predominant in quail since 2003, while multiple Ck/Bei-like genotypes were introduced into quail, wherein they incorporated G1-like gene segments, but none of them became established in this host. Those Ck/Bei-like reassortants generated in quail have then been introduced into other poultry. These complex interactions form a two-way transmission system between quail and other types of poultry. The present study provides evidence that H9N2 and H5N1 subtype viruses have also exchanged gene segments to generate currently circulating reassortants of both subtypes that have pandemic potential. Continuing influenza virus surveillance in poultry is critical to understanding the genesis and emergence of potentially pandemic strains in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- K M Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Disease, Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine Building, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
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83795
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Benjamins JA, Nedelkoska L. Cyclic GMP-dependent pathways protect differentiated oligodendrocytes from multiple types of injury. Neurochem Res 2006; 32:321-9. [PMID: 17191140 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-006-9187-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2006] [Accepted: 09/27/2006] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The cyclic GMP analog 8-bromo-cyclic GMP (8-Br-cGMP) protects differentiated murine oligodendrocytes (OLs) from caspase-mediated death initiated by staurosporine, thapsigargin or kainate. Caspase-independent death caused by high levels of NO is also partially prevented by 8-Br-cGMP. Inhibitors of protein kinase G (cGMP-dependent protein kinase, cGK) reversed protection, supporting involvement of cGK. Since NO stimulates soluble guanylate cyclase, increasing cGMP, we treated OLs with low levels of NO and observed partial protection against thapsigargin, staurosporine and kainate. Two inhibitors of mitochondrial pore transition (MPT), cyclosporin A and bongkrekic acid, were poorly protective, indicating that cGMP is not acting primarily by blocking MPT. 8Br-cGMP was more effective than 8Br-cAMP in protecting against staurosporine or release of intracellular Ca(++) by thapsigargin. The cAMP analog exhibited little or no protection against kainate or high levels of NO. Thus cGK signaling is more effective than protein kinase A or phosphodiesterase 3 signaling in preventing OL death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce A Benjamins
- Department of Neurology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, 1228 Elliman Building, 421 E. Canfield Avenue, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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83796
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Zhang Y, Ma B, Zhou Y, Zhang M, Qiu X, Sui Y, Zhang X, Ma B, Fan Q. Dendritic cells fused with allogeneic breast cancer cell line induce tumor antigen-specific CTL responses against autologous breast cancer cells. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2006; 105:277-86. [PMID: 17187233 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-006-9457-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2006] [Accepted: 11/13/2006] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Dendritic cell (DC)/tumor cell fusion vaccine has been revealed as a promising tool for the antitumor immunotherapy. Previous research has shown that fusion hybrids of human DCs and autologous tumor cells can induce cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses against autologous tumor cells in animal models and human clinical trials. However, a major restriction factor for the clinical use is the difficulty for preparation of sufficient amount of autologous tumor cells especially for the patients with metastasis cancer whose primary tumor lesion is not clear or has been resected. In this study, allogeneic breast cancer cell line MCF-7 cells were electrofused to autologous DCs from patient with breast cancer as a strategy to deliver shared breast cancer antigens to DCs. Fusion cells generated by autologous DCs and allogeneic MCF-7 were able to induce autologous T lymphocytes proliferation, high levels of IFN-gamma production and CTL responses. CTLs induced by DCs/allogeneic MCF-7 fusion cells were able to kill autologous breast cancer cells in an antigen specific and HLA restriction manner. Our study may provide the experiment basis for the use of allogeneic breast cancer cell line in the DC/tumor cell fusion cell vaccination strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunfei Zhang
- Center of Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopaedics Oncology Institute of Chinese PLA, Tangdu Hospital, Fourth Military Medical University, Xi'an, 710038, Shaanxi Province, China
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83797
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Pourmand N, Diamond L, Garten R, Erickson JP, Kumm J, Donis RO, Davis RW. Rapid and highly informative diagnostic assay for H5N1 influenza viruses. PLoS One 2006; 1:e95. [PMID: 17183727 PMCID: PMC1762361 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0000095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2006] [Accepted: 11/20/2006] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
A highly discriminative and information-rich diagnostic assay for H5N1 avian influenza would meet immediate patient care needs and provide valuable information for public health interventions, e.g., tracking of new and more dangerous variants by geographic area as well as avian-to-human or human-to-human transmission. In the present study, we have designed a rapid assay based on multilocus nucleic acid sequencing that focuses on the biologically significant regions of the H5N1 hemagglutinin gene. This allows the prediction of viral strain, clade, receptor binding properties, low- or high-pathogenicity cleavage site and glycosylation status. H5 HA genes were selected from nine known high-pathogenicity avian influenza subtype H5N1 viruses, based on their diversity in biologically significant regions of hemagglutinin and/or their ability to cause infection in humans. We devised a consensus pre-programmed pyrosequencing strategy, which may be used as a faster, more accurate alternative to de novo sequencing. The available data suggest that the assay described here is a reliable, rapid, information-rich and cost-effective approach for definitive diagnosis of H5N1 avian influenza. Knowledge of the predicted functional sequences of the HA will enhance H5N1 avian influenza surveillance efforts.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Base Sequence
- Birds
- DNA Primers/genetics
- DNA, Viral/genetics
- Genes, Viral
- Hemagglutinin Glycoproteins, Influenza Virus/genetics
- Humans
- Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/genetics
- Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/isolation & purification
- Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype/pathogenicity
- Influenza in Birds/virology
- Influenza, Human/diagnosis
- Influenza, Human/transmission
- Influenza, Human/virology
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Phylogeny
- Polymerase Chain Reaction/methods
- Sequence Analysis, RNA/methods
- Virology/methods
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Affiliation(s)
- Nader Pourmand
- Stanford Genome Technology Center, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, United States of America.
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83798
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Mase M, Tanimura N, Imada T, Okamatsu M, Tsukamoto K, Yamaguchi S. Recent H5N1 avian influenza A virus increases rapidly in virulence to mice after a single passage in mice. J Gen Virol 2006; 87:3655-3659. [PMID: 17098982 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.81843-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
To evaluate the potential pathogenicity to mammals of the recent H5N1 avian influenza A virus, viruses recovered from dead mice infected with A/chicken/Yamaguchi/7/2004 isolated in Japan were examined. All recovered viruses from the brains of dead mice infected with this strain (without any prior adaptation to mice) had substituted the amino acid at position 627 of the PB2 protein from glutamic acid to lysine. Their mouse lethality had increased by approximately 5 x 10(4) times over that of the original virus. Histopathological analysis reinforced the finding that these variants caused more rapid and severe damage to mice than the original virus. This revealed that it might be useful to characterize the recovered virus to assess its potential pathogenicity to mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masaji Mase
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Animal Health, 3-1-5 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Tanimura
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Animal Health, 3-1-5 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan
| | - Tadao Imada
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Animal Health, 3-1-5 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Okamatsu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Animal Health, 3-1-5 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan
| | - Kenji Tsukamoto
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Animal Health, 3-1-5 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan
| | - Shigeo Yamaguchi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Animal Health, 3-1-5 Kannondai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0856, Japan
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83799
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Wang Z, Tang L, Sun G, Tang Y, Xie Y, Wang S, Hu X, Gao W, Cox SB, Wang JS. Etiological study of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma in an endemic region: a population-based case control study in Huaian, China. BMC Cancer. 2006;6:287. [PMID: 17173682 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-6-287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2006] [Accepted: 12/15/2006] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuous exposure to various environmental carcinogens and genetic polymorphisms of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes (XME) are associated with many types of human cancers, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Huaian, China, is one of the endemic regions of ESCC, but fewer studies have been done in characterizing the risk factors of ESCC in this area. The aims of this study is to evaluate the etiological roles of demographic parameters, environmental and food-borne carcinogens exposure, and XME polymorphisms in formation of ESCC, and to investigate possible gene-gene and gene-environment interactions associated with ESCC in Huaian, China. METHODS A population based case-control study was conducted in 107 ESCC newly diagnosed cases and 107 residency- age-, and sex-matched controls in 5 townships of Huaian. In addition to regular epidemiological and food frequency questionnaire analyses, genetic polymorphisms of phase I enzymes CYP1A1, CYP1B1, CYP2A6, and CYP2E1, and phase II enzymes GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1, and microsomal epoxide hydrolase (EPHX) were assessed from genomic DNA using PCR based techniques. RESULTS Consuming acrid food, fatty meat, moldy food, salted and pickled vegetables, eating fast, introverted personality, passive smoking, a family history of cancer, esophageal lesion, and infection with Helicobacter pylori were significant risk factors for ESCC (P < 0.05). Regular clean up of food storage utensils, green tea consumption, and alcohol abstinence were protective factors for ESCC (P < 0.01). The frequency of the GSTT1 null genotype was higher in cases (59.4%) compared to controls (47.2%) with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.68 and 95% confidence interval (CI) from 0.96 to 2.97 (P = 0.07), especially in males (OR = 2.78; 95% CI = 1.22-6.25; P = 0.01). No associations were found between polymorphisms of CYP1A1, CYP1B1, CYP2A6, CYP2E1, GSTM1, GSTP1, and EPHX and ESCC (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION Our results demonstrated that dietary and environmental exposures, some demographic parameters and genetic polymorphism of GSTT1 may play important roles in the development of ESCC in Huaian area, China.
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83800
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Guo XC, Scott K, Liu Y, Dean M, David V, Nelson GW, Johnson RC, Dilks HH, Lautenberger J, Kessing B, Martenson J, Guan L, Sun S, Deng H, Zheng Y, de The G, Liao J, Zeng Y, O'Brien SJ, Winkler CA. Genetic factors leading to chronic Epstein-Barr virus infection and nasopharyngeal carcinoma in South East China: study design, methods and feasibility. Hum Genomics 2006; 2:365-75. [PMID: 16848974 PMCID: PMC3525159 DOI: 10.1186/1479-7364-2-6-365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is a complex disease caused by a combination of Epstein-Barr virus chronic infection, the environment and host genes in a multi-step process of carcinogenesis. The identity of genetic factors involved in the development of chronic Epstein-Barr virus infection and NPC remains elusive, however. Here, we describe a two-phase, population-based, case-control study of Han Chinese from Guangxi province, where the NPC incidence rate rises to a high of 25-50 per 100,000 individuals. Phase I, powered to detect single gene associations, enrolled 984 subjects to determine feasibility, to develop infrastructure and logistics and to determine error rates in sample handling. A microsatellite screen of Phase I study participants, genotyped for 319 alleles from 34 microsatellites spanning an 18-megabase region of chromosome 4 (4p15.1-q12), previously implicated by a linkage analysis of familial NPC, found 14 alleles marginally associated with developing NPC or chronic immunoglobulin A production (p = 0.001-0.03). These associations lost significance after applying a correction for multiple tests. Although the present results await confirmation, the Phase II study population has tripled patient enrolment and has included environmental covariates, offering the potential to validate this and other genomic regions that influence the onset of NPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiu Chan Guo
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity SAIC Frederick National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
- Cangwu Institute for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Control and Prevention Wuzhou Guanxi China
| | - Kevin Scott
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity SAIC Frederick National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Yan Liu
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Michael Dean
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Victor David
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - George W Nelson
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity SAIC Frederick National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Randall C Johnson
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity SAIC Frederick National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Holli H Dilks
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - James Lautenberger
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Bailey Kessing
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity SAIC Frederick National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Janice Martenson
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Li Guan
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity SAIC Frederick National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Shan Sun
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Hong Deng
- Cancer Institute of Wuzhou Wuzhou 543002, Guangxi China
| | - Yuming Zheng
- Cancer Institute of Wuzhou Wuzhou 543002, Guangxi China
| | | | - Jian Liao
- Cangwu Institute for Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Control and Prevention Wuzhou Guanxi China
| | - Yi Zeng
- Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention Beijing China
| | - Stephen J O'Brien
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
| | - Cheryl A Winkler
- Laboratory of Genomic Diversity SAIC Frederick National Cancer Institute-Frederick Frederick MD 21702, USA
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