Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunolocalization in paraffin sections: an index of cell proliferation with evidence of deregulated expression in some neoplasms

Targeted delivery of celastrol to mesangial cells is effective against mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis

Mesangial cells-mediated glomerulonephritis is a frequent cause of end-stage renal disease. Here, we show that celastrol is effective in treating both reversible and irreversible mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis in rat models, but find that its off-target distributions cause severe systemic toxicity. We thus target celastrol to mesangial cells using albumin nanoparticles. Celastrol-albumin nanoparticles crosses fenestrated endothelium and accumulates in mesangial cells, alleviating proteinuria, inflammation, glomerular hypercellularity, and excessive extracellular matrix deposition in rat anti-Thy1.1 nephritis models. Celastrol-albumin nanoparticles presents lower drug accumulation than free celastrol in off-target organs and tissues, thereby minimizing celastrol-related systemic toxicity. Celastrol-albumin nanoparticles thus represents a promising treatment option for mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis and similar glomerular diseases.

Mesangial cell-mediated glomerulonephritis is a frequent cause of kidney disease. Here the authors show that celastrol loaded in albumin nanoparticles efficiently targets mesangial cells, and is effective in rat models.

Propofol attenuates cytokine-mediated upregulation of expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and apoptosis during regeneration post-partial hepatectomy

Purpose:

To determine the effects of propofol and ketamine anesthesia on liver regeneration in rats after partial hepatectomy (PHT).

Methods:

Male Wistar albino rats were assigned randomly to four groups of 10. Anesthesia was induced and maintained with propofol in groups 1 and 2, and with ketamine in groups 3 and 4. PHT was undertaken in groups 1 and 3. Rats in groups 2 and 4 (control groups) underwent an identical surgical procedure, but without PHT. At postoperative day-5, rats were killed. Regenerated liver was removed, weighed, and evaluated (by immunohistochemical means) for expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), endothelial NOS (eNOS), apoptosis protease-activating factor (APAF)-1, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). Also, blood samples were collected for measurement of levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6.

Results:

Between groups 2 and 4, there were no differences in tissue levels of iNOS, eNOS, and APAF-1 or plasma levels of TNF-α and IL-6. eNOS expression was similar in group 1 and group 3. Expression of iNOS and APAF-1 was mild-to-moderate in group 1, but significantly higher in group 3. Groups 1 and 3 showed an increase in PCNA expression, but expression in both groups was comparable. Plasma levels of TNF-α and IL-6 increased to a lesser degree in group 1 than in group 3.

Conclusion:

Propofol, as an anesthetic agent, may attenuate cytokine-mediated upregulation of iNOS expression and apoptosis in an animal model of liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy.

Hyperbranched polymer drug delivery treatment for lung metastasis of salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma in nude mice

Salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (SACC) is associated with a high rate of lung metastasis. When lung metastasis occurs, the effects of traditional chemotherapy on SACC are poor. Hyperbranched polymer drug delivery (degradable hyperbranched polyglycerols, dHPGs) can be used as a strategy to load several drugs, and obtain beneficial effects on SACC lung metastasis through enhanced permeability and retention. In the present study, hydroxycamptothecin (HPT)-conjugated dHPG (dHPG-HPT) was synthesized and its effects on SACC xenografts in the lungs of nude mice were evaluated. SACC cells with a high potential for pulmonary metastasis (SACC-LM cells) were injected into the tail vein of mice, establishing a nude mouse model. The mice were randomly divided into the three following groups: Control, HPT and dHPG-HPT. Saline (control), HPT or dHPG-HPT were injected into the mice. After two weeks, the mice were euthanized and their lungs were removed. The lungs were paraffin-embedded for hematoxylin and eosin, and immunohistochemical staining analyses. Primary antibodies directed against vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cluster of differentiation 34 (CD34), proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9) were used. Gross observation demonstrated that the volumes of SACC lung metastasis nodules were significantly decreased in the dHPG-HPT group compared with the control and HPT groups. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed a lower expression of VEGF, CD34, PCNA and MMP9 in the dHPG-HPT group. The results of the current study suggest that dHPG-HPT can suppress the growth of SACC xenografts in nude mice, providing a theoretical basis for macromolecular drug delivery-based treatment of SACC.

Combined Ki67 and ERCC1 for prognosis in non-keratinizing nasopharyngeal carcinoma underwent chemoradiotherapy

This study aimed to assess the predictive value of combined Ki67 and ERCC1 in distant metastasis-free nasopharyngeal carcinoma. 334 such cases were retrospectively assessed. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate Ki67 and ERCC1 protein levels in tumor tissues. Associations of Ki67 and ERCC1 amounts with clinical characteristics and survival were analyzed. Medium follow-up was 48.7 months; overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS), and local recurrence-free survival (LRFS) were 91.3%, 76.0%, 82.0%, and 91.9%, respectively. High Ki67 expression was found in 35.6% patients, and positively correlated with clinical- and N- staging (P = 0.005, P < 0.001); 4-year OS, DFS, and DMFS were significantly lower in the high Ki67 group than patients with low-medium expression (P = 0.001, P = 0.012, P = 0.007). High ERCC1 expression was found in 35.3% of patients, and positively correlated with clinical- and T- staging. Compared with low ERCC1 expression cases, 4-year OS, DFS, DMFS, and LRFS were decreased significantly in those with high levels. High Ki67 and ERCC1 levels were related to adverse prognoses of OS (HR=4.977, 95% CI 2.31–12.292, P<0.001), DFS (HR = 4.178, 95% CI 2.421–7.212, P < 0.001), DMFS (HR = 3.722, 95% CI 2.028–7.015, P < 0.001), and LRFS (HR = 3.689, 95% CI 1.423–9.566, P = 0.007). Compared with the low-medium Ki67 and low ERCC1 groups, no significant difference in survival prognosis was obtained in the low-medium Ki67 and high ERCC1 groups, and patients with high Ki67 and low ERCC1 levels. Combined Ki67 and ERCC1 can better predict nasopharyngeal carcinoma prognosis than individual parameters.

Reduced Proliferation of Oligodendrocyte Progenitor Cells in the Postnatal Brain of Dystonia Musculorum Mice

Dystonia musculorum (dt) mice show sensory neurodegeneration and movement disorder, such as dystonia and cerebellar ataxia. The causative gene Dystonin (Dst) encodes a cytoskeleton linker protein. Although sensory neurodegeneration has been well studied, glial cell responses in the central nervous system (CNS) are poorly understood. Here, we investigated cell proliferation in the CNS of Dst ^Gt homozygous mice using newly generated in situ hybridization (ISH) probes-Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) probes-both of which effectively detect proliferating cells. We found that Ki-67-positive cells were significantly decreased in the corpus callosum and thalamus of dt brain at postnatal day 21 (P21). There is a similar but not significant tendency at postnatal day 14 (P14) in the dt brain. We also confirmed the reduced proliferation by PCNA ISH and Ki-67 immunohistochemistry. Double staining with cell-type-specific markers revealed that proliferating cells are oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPCs) in both wild-type and dt brain. We also observed a reduced number of Olig2-positive cells in the corpus callosum of Dst ^Gt homozygous mice at P21, indicating that reduced proliferation resulted in a reduced number of OPCs. Our data indicate that OPCs proliferation is reduced in the dt mouse brain at the postnatal stage and that it subsequently results in the reduced number of OPCs.

GGNBP2 is necessary for testis morphology and sperm development

Gametogenetin Binding Protein 2 (GGNBP2) was identified as a tumor suppressor and verified as such by several studies. GGNBP2 has also been reported to be essential for pregnancy maintenance via regulation of trophoblast stem cells. Gametogenetin (GGN) is a testicular germ cell-specific gene expressed in adult testes. As a potential GGN1-interacting protein, the role of GGNBP2 in spermatogenesis has not yet been clarified. We generated heterozygous GGNBP2 knockout mice and bred them by intercrossing. We found that among the offspring, homozygous GGNBP2 knockout (KO) mice were present in severely reduced numbers. The GGNBP2 KO pups developed normally, but the male siblings showed dramatically reduced fertility. In these male homozygous GGNBP2 KO mice, the only pathological finding was abnormal morphology of the testes and absence of spermatozoa. In addition, increased apoptosis was observed in the testes of GGNBP2 KO mice. SOX9 staining revealed that SOX9-positive Sertoli cells were absent in the seminiferous tubules. In homozygous mice, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive cells were localized in the lumen of the convoluted seminiferous tubules. These results suggest that GGNBP2 plays a key role in spermatogenesis by affecting the morphology and function of SOX9-positive Sertoli cells.

How Ketamine Affects Livers of Pregnant Mice and Developing Mice?

It is well known that ketamine abuse can induce liver damage in adult addicts, but the effects of ketamine abuse in pregnant mothers on their offspring have received less attention. In this study, we investigated the effects of 5-day ketamine injections (30 mg/kg) to pregnant Institute for Cancer Research (ICR) mice during early gestation or mid-gestation on the aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities of the mothers and the offspring. We also looked into whether administering ketamine treatment to the mothers had any effects on the extent of fibrosis, cell proliferation and cell death in the livers of the newborns. No significant biochemical differences were found between treatment and control groups in the mothers. In the offspring, ketamine treatment mildly suppressed the gradual increase of hepatic AST activity in neonates during liver maturation. Measurements of hepatic ALP activity and lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) immunoreactivity revealed that ketamine treatment may lead to increased cell death. Proliferation of liver cells of the newborns was also retarded as shown by reduced proliferative cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunoreactivity in the ketamine groups. No obvious fibrosis was evident. Thus, we demonstrated that ketamine administration to pregnant mice suppressed hepatic development and also induced liver cell death of the offspring.

Neonatal hypothyroidism affects testicular glucose homeostasis through increased oxidative stress in prepubertal mice: effects on GLUT3, GLUT8 and Cx43

Thyroid hormones (THs) play an important role in maintaining the link between metabolism and reproduction and the altered THs status is associated with induction of oxidative stress in various organs like brain, heart, liver and testis. Further, reactive oxygen species play a pivotal role in regulation of glucose homeostasis in several organs, and glucose utilization by Leydig cells is essential for testosterone biosynthesis and thus is largely dependent on glucose transporter 8 (GLUT8). Glucose uptake by Sertoli cells is mediated through glucose transporter 3 (GLUT3) under the influence of THs to meet energy requirement of developing germ cells. THs also modulate level of gap junctional protein such as connexin 43 (Cx43), a potential regulator of cell proliferation and apoptosis in the seminiferous epithelium. Although the role of transient neonatal hypothyroidism in adult testis in terms of testosterone production is well documented, the effect of THs deficiency in early developmental period and its role in testicular glucose homeostasis and oxidative stress with reference to Cx43 in immature mice remain unknown. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of neonatal hypothyroidism on testicular glucose homeostasis and oxidative stress at postnatal days (PND) 21 and 28 in relation to GLUT3, GLUT8 and Cx43. Hypothyroidism induced by 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) markedly decreased testicular glucose level with considerable reduction in expression level of GLUT3 and GLUT8. Likewise, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity and intratesticular concentration of lactate were also decreased in hypothyroid mice. There was also a rise in germ cell apoptosis with increased expression of caspase-3 in PTU-treated mice. Further, neonatal hypothyroidism affected germ cell proliferation with decreased expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and Cx43. In conclusion, our results suggest that neonatal hypothyroidism alters testicular glucose homeostasis via increased oxidative stress in prepubertal mice, thereby affecting germ cell survival and proliferation.

Protection against cerebral infarction by Withaferin A involves inhibition of neuronal apoptosis, activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, and reduced intimal hyperplasia via inhibition of VSMC migration and matrix metalloproteinases

PURPOSE

Stroke is a major public health concern with high rates of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cerebral ischemia and infarction are commonly associated with stroke. Currently used medications, though effective, are also associated with adverse effects. Development of effective neuroprotective agents with fewer side effects would be of clinical value. We evaluated the effects of Withaferin A (WA), a steroidal lactone derived from the plant Withania somnifera, on experimentally induced cerebral infarction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The ability of WA to inhibit neuroapoptosis and modulate vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration and PI3K/Akt signaling was assessed. Separate groups of Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to cerebral occlusion and reperfused for 24h.

RESULTS

WA treatment (25, 50 or 100mg/kg bodyweight) significantly reduced the infarct area in a carotid ligation model; WA reduced intimal hyperplasia and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive cell counts. Western blotting analysis revealed significantly suppressed PI3K/Akt signaling following cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury. WA supplementation was found to downregulate apoptotic pathway proteins. WA suppressed PTEN and enhanced p-Akt and GSK-3β levels and elevated mTORc1, cyclinD1 and NF-κB p65 expression, suggesting activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway. In vitro studies with PDGF-stimulated A7r5 cells revealed that WA exposure severely downregulated matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2 and -9 and inhibited migration of A7r5 cells. Additionally, WA reduced the proliferation of A7r5 cells significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

WA exerted neuroprotective effects by activating the PI3K/Akt pathway, modulating the expression of MMPs, and inhibiting the migration of VSMCs.

Partial Hepatectomy and Castration of HBV Transgenic Mice

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a hepatotropic virus. Its infection can cause liver injury and regeneration, and its replication is affected by the gender. Transgenic mice that carry a 1.3-mer overlength HBV DNA genome productively replicate HBV in hepatocytes and have been very useful for studying the replication and pathogenesis of HBV in vivo. By using this mouse model, the relationship between HBV and liver injury and regeneration as well as the effect of the gender on HBV gene expression and replication has been studied. In this chapter, we describe the surgical procedures of partial hepatectomy and castration and provide examples to demonstrate how these surgical procedures may be used to study the effect of HBV on liver regeneration and the effect of androgen on HBV replication.

Cross-linked antifouling polysaccharide hydrogel coating as extracellular matrix mimics for wound healing

Antifouling hydrogel coating based on natural polysaccharide could effectively promote diabetic wound healing.

Putative adult neurogenesis in two domestic pigeon breeds (Columba livia domestica): racing homer versus utility carneau pigeons

Generation of neurons in the brains of adult birds has been studied extensively in the telencephalon of song birds and few studies are reported on the distribution of PCNA and DCX in the telencephalon of adult non-song learning birds. We report here on adult neurogenesis throughout the brains of two breeds of adult domestic pigeons (Columba livia domestica), the racing homer and utility carneau using endogenous immunohistochemical markers proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) for proliferating cells and doublecortin (DCX) for immature and migrating neurons. The distribution of PCNA and DCX immunoreactivity was very similar in both pigeon breeds with only a few minor differences. In both pigeons, PCNA and DCX immunoreactivity was observed in the olfactory bulbs, walls of the lateral ventricle, telencephalic subdivisions of the pallium and subpallium, diencephalon, mesencephalon and cerebellum. Generally, the olfactory bulbs and telencephalon had more PCNA and DCX cells than other regions. Two proliferative hotspots were evident in the dorsal and ventral poles of the lateral ventricles. PCNA- and DCX-immunoreactive cells migrated radially from the walls of the lateral ventricle into the parenchyma. In most telencephalic regions, the density of PCNA- and DCX-immunoreactive cells increased from rostral to caudal, except in the mesopallium where the density decreased from rostral to middle levels and then increased caudally. DCX immunoreactivity was more intense in fibres than in cell bodies and DCX-immunoreactive cells included small granular cells, fusiform bipolar cells, large round and or polygonal multipolar cells. The similarity in the distribution of proliferating cells and new neurons in the telencephalon of the two breeds of pigeons may suggest that adult neurogenesis is a conserved trait as an ecological adaptation irrespective of body size.

Limited Link between Oxidative Stress and Ochratoxin A-Induced Renal Injury in an Acute Toxicity Rat Model

Ochratoxin A (OTA) displays nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. However, in the acute toxicity rat model, there is no evidence on the relationship between OTA and nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity. Based on this, the integrated analysis of physiological status, damage biomarkers, oxidative stress, and DNA damage were performed. After OTA treatment, the body weight decreased and AST, ALP, TP, and BUN levels in serum increased. Hydropic degeneration, swelling, vacuolization, and partial drop occurred in proximal tubule epithelial cells. PCNA and Kim-1 were dose-dependently increased in the kidney, but Cox-2 expression and proliferation were not found in the liver. In OTA-treated kidneys, the mRNA expressions of Kim-1, Cox-2, Lcn2, and Clu were dose-dependently increased. The mRNA expressions of Vim and Cox-2 were decreased in OTA-treated livers. Some oxidative stress indicators were altered in the kidneys (ROS and SOD) and livers (SOD and GSH). DNA damage and oxidative DNA damage were not found. In conclusion, there is a limited link between oxidative stress and OTA-induced renal injury in an acute toxicity rat model.

Effect of polybrominated diphenyl ether (BDE-209) on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis through altered thyroid status in adult mice

Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), a class of brominated flame retardants (BFRs), have been widely used in many products to minimize the risk of fire, mainly by mixing in polymer products. BDE-209, a congener of PBDEs having structural similarity with thyroid hormones, acts as an endocrine disruptor by interfering with thyroid homeostasis. However, little is known about the effect of BDE-209 exposure on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis. This study was therefore conducted in adult mice to examine the effect of BDE-209 on testicular steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis in relation to thyroid status, and to explore possible mechanism(s) of its action. Adult Parkes strain male mice were orally gavaged with 750 and 950mg/kg BW of BDE-209 in corn oil for 35days. Significant reductions were noted in the levels of serum total T_3, T₄ and testosterone in mice treated with 950mg/kg BW of BDE-209 compared to controls; histologically, testes showed nonuniform degenerative changes in the seminiferous tubules as both affected and normal tubules were observed in the same section; further, number and viability of spermatozoa were also adversely affected in cauda epididymidis of these mice. Semiquantitative RT-PCR and western blot analyses also showed significant reductions in both testicular mRNA and protein levels of steroidogenic factor 1 (SF-1), steroidogenic acute regulatory (StAR) protein, cytochrome P450scc (CYP11A1), 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) in 950mg dose treated-mice compared to controls. Immunohistochemical and immunoblot analyses further revealed a marked decrease in proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) positive cells in testes of 950mg dose of BDE-209-treated mice. However, 750mg dose of BDE-209 had no effect on the above parameters. In conclusion, our results suggest that exposure of BDE-209 to adult mice causes reduction in serum levels of thyroid hormones and altered thyroid status may partly result into impairment of testicular steroidogenesis because of down-regulated expression of SF-1, thereby causing suppression of spermatogenesis.

SurR9C84A protects and recovers human cardiomyocytes from hypoxia induced apoptosis

Survivin, as an anti-apoptotic protein and a cell cycle regulator, is recently gaining importance for its regenerative potential in salvaging injured hypoxic cells of vital organs such as heart. Different strategies are being employed to upregulate survivin expression in dying hypoxic cardiomyocytes. We investigated the cardioprotective potential of a cell permeable survivin mutant protein SurR9C84A, for the management of hypoxia mediated cardiomyocyte apoptosis, in a novel and clinically relevant model employing primary human cardiomyocytes (HCM). The aim of this research work was to study the efficacy and mechanism of SurR9C84A facilitated cardioprotection and regeneration in hypoxic HCM. To mimic hypoxic microenvironment in vitro, well characterized HCM were treated with 100µm (48h) cobalt chloride to induce hypoxia. Hypoxia induced (HI) HCM were further treated with SurR9C84A (1µg/mL) in order to analyse its cardioprotective efficacy. Confocal microscopy showed rapid internalization of SurR9C84A and scanning electron microscopy revealed the reinstatement of cytoskeleton projections in HI HCM. SurR9C84A treatment increased cell viability, reduced cell death via, apoptosis (Annexin-V assay), and downregulated free cardiac troponin T and MMP-9 expression. SurR9C84A also upregulated the expression of proliferation markers (PCNA and Ki-67) and downregulated mitochondrial depolarization and ROS levels thereby, impeding cell death. Human Apoptosis Array further revealed that SurR9C84A downregulated expression of pro-apoptotic markers and augmented expression of HSPs and HTRA2/Omi. SurR9C84A treatment led to enhanced levels of survivin, VEGF, PI3K and pAkt. SurR9C84A proved non-toxic to normoxic HCM, as validated through unaltered cell proliferation and other marker levels. Its pre-treatment exhibited lesser susceptibility to hypoxia/damage. SurR9C84A holds a promising clinical potential for human cardiomyocyte survival and proliferation following hypoxic injury.

Porcine milk-derived exosomes promote proliferation of intestinal epithelial cells

Milk-derived exosomes were identified as a novel mechanism of mother-to-child transmission of regulatory molecules, but their functions in intestinal tissues of neonates are not well-studied. Here, we characterized potential roles of porcine milk-derived exosomes in the intestinal tract. In vitro, treatment with milk-derived exosomes (27 ± 3 ng and 55 ± 5 ng total RNA) significantly promoted IPEC-J2 cell proliferation by MTT, CCK8, EdU fluorescence and EdU flow cytometry assays. The qRT-PCR and Western blot analyses indicated milk-derived exosomes (0.27 ± 0.03 μg total RNA) significantly promoted expression of CDX2, IGF-1R and PCNA, and inhibited p53 gene expression involved in intestinal proliferation. Additionally, six detected miRNAs were significantly increased in IPEC-J2 cell, while FAS and SERPINE were significantly down-regulated relative to that in control. In vivo, treated groups (0.125 μg and 0.25 μg total RNA) significantly raised mice' villus height, crypt depth and ratio of villus length to crypt depth of intestinal tissues, significantly increased CDX2, PCNA and IGF-1R' expression and significantly inhibited p53' expression. Our study demonstrated that milk-derived exosomes can facilitate intestinal cell proliferation and intestinal tract development, thus giving a new insight for milk nutrition and newborn development and health.

Integrating a novel SN38 prodrug into the PEGylated liposomal system as a robust platform for efficient cancer therapy in solid tumors

Liposomal nanoassemblies have been used extensively as carriers for the delivery of both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs. They represent a mature, versatile technology with considerable potential for improving the pharmacokinetics of drugs. However, the formulation of many chemotherapeutics into liposome systems has posed a significant challenge due to their incompatible physicochemical properties, as was the case with camptothecin-based chemotherapeutics. Here, we present a rational paradigm of potent chemotherapeutics that were reconstructed and subsequently integrated into liposomal nanoassemblies. Using SN38 (7-ethyl-10-hydroxy camptothecin) as a model drug, a lipophilic prodrug 1 (designated as LA-SN38) was constructed by tethering the linoleic acid (LA) moiety via esterification, which was further facilitated to form liposomal nanoparticles (LipoNP) through supramolecular nanoassembly. The resulting 1-loaded LipoNP exhibited sustained drug release kinetics and decreased cellular uptake by macrophage cells. Uptake by tumor cells was enhanced relative to our previous supramolecular nanoparticles (SNP 1), which were derived from the self-assembling prodrug 1. Notably, LipoNP outperformed SNP 1 in terms of pharmacokinetics and in vivo therapeutic efficacy in both human BEL-7402 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and HCT-116 colorectal cancer-derived xenograft mouse models. These results were likely due to the improved systemic circulation and preferential accumulation of nanodrugs in tumors. Hence, our results suggest that the combination of liposomal delivery platforms with rational prodrug engineering may emerge as a promising approach for the effective and safe delivery of anticancer chemotherapeutics.

Posttransplant Lymphoproliferative Disorders

Posttransplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) are an acknowledged complica tion of transplantation and immunosuppression that may be difficult to distinguish from severe rejection in small biopsy specimens. In this study we compared 19 exam ples of PTLD with 20 cases of severe rejection. Antibodies to CD20, CD43, CD45, CD45RO, MB2, Epstein-Barr virus-latent membrane protein, bcl-2 , proliferating cell nuclear antigen, cytomegalovirus early antigen, and hepatitis B surface and core anti gens were employed. The results expressed as percentage of positive cases of PTLD/ rejection, were: CD20, 89/0; CD43, 63/100; CD45, 100/100; CD45RO, 5/85; MB2, 32/0; Epstein-Barr virus-latent membrane protein, 79/0. Aberrant coexpression of CD20 and CD43 was seen in 11 cases of PTLD and no cases of severe rejection. The proliferating cell nuclear antigen index was 58% in PTLD cases, and 20% in rejection; stains for bcl-2 protein were nondiscriminatory. No examples of either process were reactive for cytomegalovirus or hepatitis B antigens. These results indicate that PTLD usually has a B-cell phenotype, often with associated necrosis, while acute rejection is a T-cell process. Expression of Epstein-Barr virus-latent membrane protein, and coexpression of CD43 and CD20 are additional attributes of PTLD. Int J Surg Pathol 2(2):105-116, 1994

Utility of Proliferation Markers Ki-67 and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) in the Evaluation of Uterine Papillary Serous Carcinomas

We examined proliferation markers Ki-67 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) to determine whether immunohistochemical staining results could predict outcome in 22 uterine papillary serous carcinomas (UPSC). Eighteen tumors (82%) had increased proliferation as demonstrated by Ki-67 immunostaining with 50% of these patients dying of disease. Twenty tumors (91%) showed high PCNA immunoreactivity; 60% of these patients died of disease. Most UPSC exhibit high immunoreactivity to Ki-67 and/or PCNA, which showed no correlation with outcome or stage. These results may reflect the aggressive clinical behavior of UPSC. We conclude that Ki-67 and PCNA immunohistochemistry have limited use as prognostic indicators in UPSC.

Synchronous Comparative Evaluation of Fibronectin Continuity and Cellular Growth Kinetics in Malignant Cutaneous Melanoma

Cellular fibronectin mediates the adhesion of cells with the extracellular matrix and thus probably regulates tumor invasion. Evaluation of proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression and counting of silver nuclear organizer regions potentially assess proliferative fraction and biologic aggressiveness in several malignancies. We investigated the above markers’ prognostic value in 60 malignant melanomas of the skin. Deep Clark levels were statistically associated with discontinuous fibronectin staining pattern (SPII) ( P < .05) as well as with high proliferating cell nuclear antigen and silver nuclear organizer regions indexes ( P < .01 and P < .05, respectively). Fibronectin staining pattern (SPII) was frequently observed in thick melanomas ( P < .05). High proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunoreactivity positively correlated with mitotic activity ( P < .05), the presence of vertical growth phase ( P < .05), and increased silver nuclear organizer regions counts ( P < .05). Patients with continuous fibronectin staining pattern (SPI) and low proliferating cell nuclear antigen scores were unlikely to develop metastatic disease ( P < .01). Therefore, the simultaneous comparative assessment of these factors is very promising in predicting melanomas clinical evolution.

Strong Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Expression But Not HER2/neu Expression Correlates with Cell Proliferation in Anal Canal Carcinomas

Twenty-eight anal carcinomas were analyzed for their proliferative status and immunoreactivity to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), HER2/neu, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA). EGFR was expressed in 97.3% of tumors. Strong EGFR immunoreactivity correlated with a high proliferative rate (p=0.0 14). No obvious relationship existed between HER2/neu immunoreactivity and proliferative rate. The strong correlation between strong EGFR immunoreactivity and tumor proliferation suggests that the EGFR may represent a therapeutic target in anal cancers.

Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) Immunoexpression in Hyperplastic Polyps and Adenomas of the Appendix

The aim of this study was to compare proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunoexpression in hyperplastic polyps and adenomas of the human vermiform appendix. We used the monoclonal antibody PC 10 in 13 hyperplastic polyps, 27 vil lous adenomas, and 13 adenomas with undulating or flat epithelium. In both the hyperplastic polyps and the villous adenomas, the labeling indices were significantly greater in the lower third than in the upper third. The labeling indices of the flat/undulating adenomas resembled those of the upper third of the villous adeno mas. In contrast to previous findings in colorectal adenomas, there were no signifi cant differences in labeling indices between the hyperplastic polyps and the villous adenomas. We concluded that PCNA labeling indices are unlikely to be of value in the distinction between villous adenomas and hyperplastic polyps in the appendix. The results may reflect the different spectrum of appendiceal adenomas versus col orectal adenomas. Int J Surg Pathol 2(4).-2 75-280, 1995

Clear Cell Sarcoma of Tendons and Aponeuroses

Fifty-eight previously unreported cases of clear cell sarcoma of tendons and apo neuroses occurring in 29 males and 29 females with a median age of 31 years are presented. The distal extremities were most frequently involved (58%), followed by the limbs and limb girdles (33%), and trunk (9%). Median tumor size was 2.5 cm (range, 0.6-9 cm). Kaplan-Meier estimates revealed a 5-year survival rate of 63%. Eleven of 43 patients (26%) had local recurrences at a median interval of 33 months. Metastases occurred in 20 of 45 cases (44%) at a median interval of 26 months; 19 of 20 patients with metastases died of the disease. The most common metastatic site was the lungs (11 cases), followed by bone (9 cases), and lymph nodes (8 cases). Clear cell sarcoma had a stereotypic morphology consisting of packeted arrangements of uniform, round to fusiform cells with eosinophilic to clear glycogen-rich cytoplasm, and prominent nucleoli, as well as multinucleated tumor cells with a wreath-like arrangement of nuclei. S100 protein was detected in all 44 cases studied, vimentin in 36, and HMB45 stained 36. Twenty-six cases were studied with antibodies directed against proliferating cell nuclear antigen. Neither the intensity of proliferating cell nuclear antigen staining, percentage of positive cells, nor the combined score of these two variables corresponded with mitotic rate or survival. Increasing size (as a continu ous variable) and necrosis were found to be independent adverse prognostic factors by multivariate analysis. Int J Surg Pathol 1 (2):89-100, 1993

MIB-1 Is a Suitable Marker of Proliferative Activity in Formalin-fixed, Paraffin-embedded Sections of Breast Cancer

To investigate the expression of a marker of cell proliferation (MIB-1) and its puta tive relationship with tumor size, histologic grading, mitotic index, nodal status, estrogen receptor content, p53 immunoreactivity, and ploidy, we studied 40 cases of invasive breast carcinoma in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections. The MIB-1, estrogen receptor, and p53 were detected using an avidin-biotin-peroxidase method with microwave antigen retrieval. Ploidy was assessed by image analysis. The median value of MIB-1 index was 15.9% and ranged from 5% to 90%. We found a significant and positive relationship among the MIB-1 index and histologic grading, mitotic index, p53 immunoreactivity, and ploidy, and we demonstrated an inverse relationship between the MIB-1 index and estrogen receptor content. These " results are similar to those reported using Ki-67 in frozen sections from breast car cinomas. Thus, MIB-1 detected in formalin-fixed material with microwave pre treatment looks to be a reliable marker of proliferation in breast carcinomas. Int J Surg Pathol 2(4):287-294, 1995

p53 Protein and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) Expression in Small Round Cell Tumors of Bone and Adjacent Soft Tissue

Sixty small cell tumors of bone and adjacent soft tissue were studied in an attempt to define the incidence of immunohistochemically detectable p53 protein and cor relate these findings with the results of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) immunohistochemical staining and mitotic counts. All of the lesions had been for malin-fixed and paraffin-embedded; half were subjected to decalcification prior to processing. The study population included 12 Ewing's sarcomas of bone, 3 atypical Ewing's sarcomas of bone, 3 primitive neuroectodermal tumors of bone, 11 Askin tumors of the thoracopulmonary region, 11 small cell osteosarcomas of bone, 10 mesenchymal chondrosarcomas of bone, and 10 malignant lymphomas involving bone. The patients ranged in age at the time of presentation from 17 to 67 years. Overall, the incidence of p53 positivity was extremely low in these lesions, irre spective of tumor type. Positive nuclear staining with an antibody to p53 was found in none of the 12 Ewing's sarcomas, none of the 3 atypical Ewing's sarcomas, none of the 3 primitive neuroectodermal tumors of bone, 1 of the 11 Askin tumors of the thoracopulmonary region (1.5% of tumor cells positive), 1 of the 11 small cell osteosarcomas (2% of tumor cells positive), 1 of the 10 mesenchymal chondrosar comas of bone (7% of tumor cells positive), and 2 of the 10 malignant lymphomas involving bone (0.5% and 1% of tumor cells positive, respectively). The majority of tumors showed PCNA positivity within the tumor cells, although the incidence of PCNA positivity within the histologic types varied greatly; in general, the higher PCNA counts corresponded to higher mitotic counts within the individual lesions. The present study did not demonstrate any correlation between mutant p53 accu mulation detected by immunohistochemistry and tumor type, and so it is unlikely that p53 positivity will prove to be of great use in the differential diagnosis of these lesions. A correlation between p53 positivity and PCNA staining or mitotic activity was not apparent. Int J Surg Pathol 2(4):259-268, 1995

Delineation of the Proliferative Component of Inflammatory Fibroid Polyps of the Intestine

Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from eight intestinal inflammatory fibroid polyps were analyzed using immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry to determine their immunohistochemical properties, DNA content, and the nature of the proliferat ing cells. In all cases, stromal cells stained diffusely for vimentin and focally for actin and histiocytic markers. Cell proliferative activity was assessed by flow cytometry and proliferating cell nuclear antigen staining. The S phase fraction was significantly in creased in inflammatory fibroid polyp when compared to control normal bowel tissues (10.8% ± 8.6% vs 6.7% ± 1.6%, P < .02). S phase fraction and proliferating cell nuclear antigen correlated in the stromal cells (r = 0.78, P < .05). Our data indicate that inflammatory fibroid polyps represent reactive, benign lesions containing poly clonal cell populations with diploid DNA content, and they have increased proliferative activity compared with normal intestinal tissues. Both the stromal cells and the vascu lar cells contributed to the proliferative activity of the lesion. Int J Surg Pathol 2(3): 207-214, 1995

Expression of Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) in Multiple Myeloma: Its Relationship to Bone Marrow Microvessel Density and other Factors of Disease Activity

The expression of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was studied in plasma cells in bone marrow biopsies from patients with multiple myeloma (MM) using a double immunostaining method. In the same samples, microvessel density (MVD), after staining with anti-CD34 antibodies, was determined before and after chemotherapy. The correlation of PCNA expression and MVD with other myeloma parameters (clinical stage, bone marrow plasma cell infiltration and serum interleukin –6 (IL-6)) was also investigated.

The study population included 51 newly diagnosed MM patients, 12 patients in plateau phase after treatment and 15 normal controls. Pretreatment mean ± SE values of PCNA, MVD, plasma cell infiltration and serum IL-6 were significantly higher than post treatment values and controls. Pretreatment PCNA expression correlated significantly with bone marrow MVD (p<0.05) plasma cell infiltration (p<0.01) and IL-6 (p<0.01).

These findings show that the proliferative activity of plasma cells is related to the angiogenic activity in the bone marrow of multiple myeloma patients. Both PCNA and MVD correlate with markers of disease activity thus may provide additional information when included in the initial evaluation of myeloma bone marrow biopsies.

Ki67, PCNA, and MCM proteins: Markers of proliferation in the diagnosis of breast cancer

The proliferative activity of tumour cells represents an important prognostic marker in the diagnosis of cancer. One of the methods for assessing the proliferative activity of cells is the immunohistochemical detection of cell cycle-specific antigens. For example, Ki67, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and minichromosome maintenance (MCM) proteins are standard markers of proliferation that are commonly used to assess the growth fraction of a cell population. The function of Ki67, the widely used marker of proliferation, still remains unclear. In contrast, PCNA and MCM proteins have been identified as important participants of DNA replication. All three proteins only manifest their expression during the cell division of normal and neoplastic cells. Since the expression of these proliferative markers was confirmed in several malignant tumours, their prognostic and predictive values have been evaluated to determine their significance in the diagnosis of cancer. This review offers insight into the discovery of the abovementioned proteins, as well as their current molecular and biological importance. In addition, the functions and properties of all three proteins and their use as markers of proliferation in the diagnosis of breast cancer are described. This work also reveals new findings about the role of Ki67 during the mitotic phase of the cell cycle. Finally, information is provided about the advantages and disadvantages of using all three antigens in the diagnosis of cancer.

Alterations in male rats following in utero exposure to betamethasone suggests changes in reproductive programming

Antenatal betamethasone is used for accelerating fetal lung maturation for women at risk of preterm birth. Altered sperm parameters were reported in adult rats after intrauterine exposure to betamethasone. In this study, male rat offspring were assessed for reproductive development after dam exposure to betamethasone (0.1mg/kg) or vehicle on Days 12, 13, 18 and 19 of pregnancy. The treatment resulted in reduction in the offspring body weight, delay in preputial separation, decreased seminal vesicle weight, testosterone levels and fertility, and increased testicular weight. In the testis, morphologically abnormal seminiferous tubules were observed, characterized by an irregular cell distribution with Sertoli cell that were displaced towards the tubular lumen. These cells expressed both Connexin 43 (Cx43) and Proliferative Nuclear Cell Antigen (PCNA). In conclusion, intrauterine betamethasone treatment appears to promote reproductive programming and impairment of rat sexual development and fertility due to, at least in part, unusual testicular disorders.

Decreased risk of cholangiocarcinogenesis following repeated cycles of Opisthorchis viverrini infection-praziquantel treatment: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and histopathological study in a hamster model

It has been suggested that repeated infection of Opisthorchis viverrini followed by repeated treatment with praziquantel (PZQ) increases risk of development of cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). Evidence for the prediction has accumulated based on findings of indirect approaches involving molecular changes and epidemiological trends. By contrast, here we directly monitored the impact of repeated liver fluke infection and treatment with PZQ on cholangiocarcinogenesis in a rodent model of human opisthorchiasis, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histopathology. Twenty five Syrian golden hamsters were assigned to five treatment groups: 1) infection with O. viverrini (OV group), 2) treatment with the carcinogen N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) at 12.5ppm (DMN), 3) O. viverrini infection in tandem with NDMA (OD), 4) O. viverrini infection, NDMA, and treatment with PZQ (ODP), and 5) uninfected, untreated control. The repeated infections were established by intragastric inoculation of 50 metacercariae of O. viverrini to the OV, OD and ODP hamsters at weeks 0, 5 and 10. PZQ at 300mg/kg body weight was given to each hamster of the ODP group on weeks 4, 9 and 13 (four weeks after each infection). Imaging by MRI was undertaken on weeks 5, 10 and 14 (i.e. one week after each PZQ treatment). MRI revealed that the ODP hamsters did not develop CCA, whereas necropsy at week 40 revealed CCA in hamsters of the OD and DMN groups. Findings for histopathology and for proliferating cell nuclear antigen index conformed to the MRI findings. In overview, and notwithstanding that the immune response of individual hosts may play roles in cholangiocarcinogenesis, three cycles of the infection with O. viverrini followed treatment of the infection with PZQ did not increase the risk of bile duct cancer in this hamster model of liver fluke infection-induced CCA.

Repertaxin, an inhibitor of the chemokine receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2, inhibits malignant behavior of human gastric cancer MKN45 cells in vitro and in vivo and enhances efficacy of 5-fluorouracil

Chemokine-mediated activation of G protein-coupled receptors CXCR1/2 promotes tumor growth, invasion, inflammation and metastasis. Repertaxin, a CXCR1/2 small-molecule inhibitor, has been shown to attenuate many of these tumor-associated processes. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of repertaxin alone and in combination with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on the malignant behavior of gastric cancer and the potential mechanisms. Gastric cancer MKN45 cells were treated in vitro with repertaxin and 5-FU, either alone or in combination. MTT and colony formation assay were performed to assess proliferation. Cell cycle progression and apoptosis was completed by flow cytometry. Migration and invasion were also assessed by Transwell and wound-healing assay. Western blot analysis and quantitative RT-PCR were performed to determine expression of signaling molecules. MKN45 cells were also grown as xenografts in nude mice. Mice were treated with repertaxin and 5-FU, and tumor volume and weight, angiogenesis, proliferation and apoptosis were monitored. Combination of repertaxin and 5-FU inhibited MKN45 cell proliferation and increased apoptosis better than either agent alone. Similarly, enhanced effect of the combination was also observed in migration and invasion assays. The improved effect of repertaxin and 5-FU was also observed in vivo, as xenograft models treated with both compounds exhibited significantly decreased tumor volume and increased apoptosis. In conclusion, repertaxin inhibited malignant behavior of human gastric cancer MKN45 cells in vitro and in vivo and enhances efficacy of 5-fluorouracil. These data provide rationale that targeting CXCR1/2 with small molecule inhibitors may enhance chemotherapeutic efficacy for the treatment of gastric cancer.

Effect of Selenium Supplementation on Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Blockage of Renal Cells in Broilers Fed a Diet Containing Aflatoxin B1

The aim of the study was to investigate the competency of selenium (Se) in counteracting the adverse effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on apoptosis, cell cycle, and proliferation of nephritic cells. Two hundred forty 1-day-old healthy male avian broilers were randomly divided into four groups and fed basal diet (control group), 0.3 mg/kg AFB1 diet (AFB1 group), 0.4 mg/kg Se diet (+Se group), and 0.3 mg/kg AFB1 + 0.4 mg/kg Se diet (AFB1 + Se group), respectively. Compared to the control group, the number of apoptotic renal cells and expressions of Bax and caspase-3 messenger RNA (mRNA) were significantly increased, while the expression of Bcl-2 was significantly decreased in the AFB1 and the +Se groups (p < 0.01). A significantly decreased proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression and arrested G0/G1 phases of the cell cycle were also seen in the AFB1 and the +Se groups when compared with those of the control group. Moreover, these parameters were restored to the control group levels in the AFB1 + Se group. These results suggested that sodium selenite supplied in the diet could effectively inhibit AFB1-induced apoptosis and cell cycle blockage in renal cells of broiler.

Oral fibrosarcoma in jararaca (Bothrops pubescens): anatomopathological and immunohistochemical aspects

Abstract A 4-year-old female captive-bred snake of the genus Bothrops showed swelling on the left side of the oral cavity, suggesting the development of neoplasia. The mass was removed surgically and sent for pathological examination. Two months later a new increase in volume in the same site was observed, suggesting recurrence. The lesion was completely removed and sent for pathological analysis. Histologically, the two-samples consisted of a mass with highly-cell density composed of spindle-shaped anaplastic cells arranged in interwoven bundles, distributed throughout the tissue extension and, occasionally, polygonal cells arranged in irregular fascicles. The Masson trichrome staining showed modest amount of collagen supporting the neoplastic cells. PAS-positive content was not observed in the cytoplasm of neoplastic cells. Histological and histochemical findings indicated that it was a spindle cell neoplasm, but the classification was not possible. Immunohistochemistry was requested and performed using the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method. The markers used were anti-vimentin, anti-PCNA, anti-EMA, anti-melan A and anti-melanosome, anti-desmin, anti-actin, anti-CD68 and anti- S100protein. The neoplastic cells were immunoreactive for vimentin and PCNA and negative for the other antibodies. The morphology characterization, histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of neoplastic cells allowed the definitive diagnosis of oral fibrosarcoma.

Bioinformatics analysis of transcription profiling of sepsis

Sepsis is a fatal whole-body inflammatory response that complicates a serious infection. To elucidate the molecular mechanism of sepsis, transcription profile data of GSE12624 which included a total of 70 samples (34 sepsis samples and 36 non-sepsis samples) was downloaded. The t test based on Bayes method in limma package was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between sepsis and non-sepsis samples (criterion: P value <0.05). Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis was conducted to investigate the biological processes involved DEGs. Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and sub-network analysis were conducted to investigate the interactions between DEGs. A total of 894 DEGs, including 479 downregulated DEGs and 415 upregulated DEGs, were identified in sepsis samples comparing with non-sepsis samples. GO enrichment analysis showed that DEGs mainly involved in cellular metabolic process, primary metabolic process, and response to organic cyclic compound. In the PPI network, four genes of CDC2, GTF2F2, PCNA, and SMAD4 with degrees more than 10 were identified. Subsequently, four sub-networks, in which genes of PTBP1, PSMA3, PSMA6, PSMB9, PSMB10, and GADD45 had relative high degrees were identified from the PPI network. After the discussion referring to previous studies, we suggested that CDC2, GTF2F2, PCNA, SMAD4 PSMA3, PTBP1, and GADD45 might be used as new therapeutic targets for sepsis. However, experiments should be further performed to prove the practical utility of these candidates.

Effect of Storage Temperature on Structure and Function of Cultured Human Oral Keratinocytes

Purpose/Aims

To assess the effect of storage temperature on the viability, phenotype, metabolism, and morphology of cultured human oral keratinocytes (HOK).

Materials and Methods

Cultured HOK cells were stored in HEPES- and sodium bicarbonate-buffered Minimum Essential Medium (MEM) at nine temperatures in approximately 4°C increments from 4°C to 37°C for seven days. Cells were characterized for viability by calcein fluorescence, phenotype retention by immunocytochemistry, metabolic parameters (pH, glucose, lactate, and O₂) within the storage medium by blood gas analysis, and morphology by scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy.

Results

Relative to the cultured, but non-stored control cells, a high percentage of viable cells were retained only in the 12°C and 16°C storage groups (85%±13% and 68%±10%, respectively). Expression of ABCG2, Bmi1, C/EBPδ, PCNA, cytokeratin 18, and caspase-3 were preserved after storage in the 5 groups between 4°C and 20°C, compared to the non-stored control. Glucose, pH and pO₂ in the storage medium declined, whereas lactate increased with increasing storage temperature. Morphology was best preserved following storage of the three groups between 12°C, 16°C, and 20°C.

Conclusion

We conclude that storage temperatures of 12°C and 16°C were optimal for maintenance of cell viability, phenotype, and morphology of cultured HOK. The storage method described in the present study may be applicable for other cell types and tissues; thus its significance may extend beyond HOK and the field of ophthalmology.

Probiotic Dahi containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum modulates the formation of aberrant crypt foci, mucin-depleted foci, and cell proliferation on 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced colorectal carcinogenesis in Wistar rats

Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) and mucin-depleted foci (MDF) are pre-neoplastic lesions identified in the colon of carcinogen-treated rodents and in humans at high risk for colon cancer. The present study was carried out to divulge the protective potential of the probiotic Dahi containing Lactobacillus acidophilus LaVK2 and Bifidobacterium bifidum BbVK3 alone or in combination with piroxicam (PXC) on the development of early biomarkers of colorectal carcinogenesis in male Wistar rats administered 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). DMH was injected subcutaneously at the rate of 40 mg/kg body weight per animal twice a week for 2 weeks. A total of 120 male Wistar rats were randomly allocated to five groups, each group having 24 animals. The rats were fed with buffalo milk or probiotic supplement (20 grams) alone or as an adjunct with PXC in addition to a basal diet ad libitum for 32 weeks. Group I was offered buffalo milk (BM) and served as the control group. Group II was administered DMH along with BM and served as the DMH-control group; group III was administered BM-DMH-PXC, in which besides administering BM-DMH, PXC was also offered. Group IV was offered probiotic LaBb Dahi and DMH, and group V was offered both probiotic LaBb Dahi and PXC along with DMH. The rats were euthanized at the 8(th), 16(th), and 32(nd) week of the experiment and examined for development of ACF, aberrant crypts per ACF (AC/ACF), mucin-depleted foci (MDF), large MDF, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) labeling index. Administration of DMH in rats induced pre-neoplastic lesions (ACF and MDF) and increased the PCNA index in colorectal tissue. A significant (p<0.05) reduction in the number of ACF, AC/ACF, MDF, large MDF, and PCNA labeling index were observed in the probiotic LaBb Dahi group compared with the DMH control group. Feeding rats with LaBb Dahi or treatment with PXC diminished the initiation and progression of DMH-induced pre-neoplastic lesions and the PCNA index, and treatment with LaBb Dahi and PXC combined was significantly more effective. The dietary intervention of probiotics and PXC significantly protects against the development of CRC in the rat-DMH model. These observations suggest that probiotic LaBb Dahi alone or as an adjunct with PXC may have anti-neoplastic and anti-proliferative activities. Moreover, probiotic LaBb Dahi possesses the medicinal properties to prevent colorectal carcinogenesis.

Dysplastic Nevus Syndrome: Melanoma-prone Disease

Regardless of subsequent clinical courses of patients with dysplastic nevi (DN), substantial evidence supporting DN as one of the melanoma-prone diseases is not yet available, especially in sporadic DN, due to the lack of genetic information other than retrospective studies in clinical observation. This study aimed at the immunohistological characterization of sporadic DN distinct from common nevi (CN) and at the evaluation of the potentially of sporadic DN for malignant transformation. We considered our results together with previous immunological and epidemiological reports. We noted the following three immunohistological characteristics. 1) Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), one of the markers for active cell division, could be detected on DN cells in junctional nests of only one among ten DN examined but not on CN cells at all. 2) The altered expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin (alpha-Sma), often observed in melanoma cells, could not be detected in DN cells. However, anti-alpha-Sma monoclonal antibody (MoAb) clearly demonstrated distinctive hypervascularity in the stroma surrounding DN when compared with CN. 3) ME491 antigen, which is known to be expressed mainly in the radial growth phase of melanoma, was detected with similar intensity on both DN and CN. These data indicate that DN has a somewhat higher potentiality than CN for cell division and secretion of some cytokines which can induce hypervascularity in the surrounding stroma, but that DN has not yet undergone the significant phenotypic changes observed in melanoma cells. Further advancements in understanding molecular events in DN cells will be of great benefit in setting DN in the multiple oncogenic spectrum from pigment cells to melanoma.

Functional divergence of type 2 deiodinase paralogs in the Atlantic salmon

Thyroid hormone (TH) is an ancestral signal linked to seasonal life history transitions throughout vertebrates. TH action depends upon tissue-localized regulation of levels of active TH (triiodothyronine, T3), through spatiotemporal expression of thyroid hormone deiodinase (dio) genes. We investigated the dio gene family in juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) parr, which prepare for seaward migration in the spring (smoltification) through TH-dependent changes in physiology. We identified two type 2 deiodinase paralogs, dio2a and dio2b, responsible for conversion of thyroxine (T4) to T3. During smoltification, dio2b was induced in the brain and gills in zones of cell proliferation following increasing day length. Contrastingly, dio2a expression was induced in the gills by transfer to salt water (SW), with the magnitude of the response proportional to the plasma chloride level. This response reflected a selective enrichment for osmotic response elements (OREs) in the dio2a promoter region. Transcriptomic profiling of gill tissue from fish transferred to SW plus or minus the deiodinase inhibitor, iopanoic acid, revealed SW-induced increases in cellular respiration as the principal consequence of gill dio2 activity. Divergent evolution of dio2 paralogs supports organ-specific timing of the TH-dependent events governing the phenotypic plasticity required for migration to sea.

Long-term culture and significant expansion of human Sertoli cells whilst maintaining stable global phenotype and AKT and SMAD1/5 activation

BACKGROUND

Sertoli cells play key roles in regulating spermatogenesis and testis development by providing structural and nutritional supports. Recent studies demonstrate that Sertoli cells can be converted into functional neural stem cells. Adult Sertoli cells have previously been considered the terminally differentiated cells with a fixed and unmodifiable population after puberty. However, this concept has been challenged. Since the number of adult human Sertoli cells is limited, it is essential to culture these cells for a long period and expand them to obtain sufficient cells for their basic research and clinic applications. Nevertheless, the studies on human Sertoli cells are restricted, because it is difficult to get access to human testis tissues.

RESULTS

Here we isolated adult human Sertoli cells with a high purity and viability from obstructive azoospermia patients with normal spermatogenesis. Adult human Sertoli cells were cultured with DMEM/F12 and fetal bovine serum for 2 months, and they could be expanded with a 59,049-fold increase of cell numbers. Morphology, phenotypic characteristics, and the signaling pathways of adult human Sertoli cells from different passages were compared. Significantly, adult human Sertoli cells assumed similar morphological features, stable global gene expression profiles and numerous proteins, and activation of AKT and SMAD1/5 during long-period culture.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that adult human Sertoli cells can be cultured for a long period and expanded with remarkable increase of cell numbers whilst maintaining their primary morphology, phenotype and signaling pathways. This study could provide adequate human Sertoli cells for reproductive and regenerative medicine.

Evaluation of cationic polyamidoamine dendrimers' dermal toxicity in the rat skin model

Polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers are multi-branched, three-dimensional polymers with unique architecture, which makes these molecules attractive for medical and pharmaceutical applications. Using PAMAM as drug carriers for topical delivery might be beneficial as they only produce a transient effect without skin irritation. To evaluate the dermal toxicity of cationic PAMAM dendrimers generation 2 and generation 3, skin irritation studies were performed in vivo in the rat skin model. After 10 days topical application of various concentrations of PAMAM-NH₂ (0.3 mg/mL, 3 mg/mL, 6 mg/mL, 30 mg/mL, 300 mg/mL), skin irritation was evaluated by visual, histopathological, and immunohistochemical examination. Microscopic assessment after hematoxylin-eosin staining revealed significant morphological changes of epidermal cells after application of PAMAM-NH₂ at a concentration of ≥6 mg/mL. Morphological alterations of epidermal cells included cytoplasmic vacuolization of keratinocytes in the basal and spinous layers. Cytomorphological changes in keratinocytes, overall picture of the epidermis, and histopathological changes in the dermis were dose dependent. Detected alterations concerned hyperplasia of connective tissue fibers and leukocyte infiltration. Visible granulocyte infiltration in the upper dermis and sockets formed by necrotic, cornified cells in the hyperplastic foci of epithelium were also noted. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed that increased nuclear immunoreactivity to PCNA correlated with the concentration of PAMAM-NH₂, but no significant differences in the cell proliferation activity in skin treated with PAMAM-NH₂ generation 2 or generation 3 were observed. Significantly higher expression of PCNA extended throughout the skin layers might suggest abnormal cell proliferation, which, as a consequence, might even lead to neoplastic changes.

Serum-free and xenobiotic-free preservation of cultured human limbal epithelial cells

Aim/Purpose of the Study

To develop a one-week storage method, without serum and xenobiotics, that would maintain cell viability, morphology, and phenotype of cultured human limbal epithelial sheets.

Materials and Methods

Human limbal explants were cultured on intact human amniotic membranes for two weeks. The sheets were stored in a hermetically sealed container at 23°C in either a serum-free medium with selected animal serum-derived compounds (Quantum 286) or a xenobiotic-free medium (Minimal Essential Medium) for 4 and 7 days. Stored and non-stored cultures were analyzed for cell viability, amniotic membrane and epithelial sheet thickness, and a panel of immunohistochemical markers for immature cells (ΔNp63α, p63, Bmi-1, C/EBP∂, ABCG2 and K19), differentiated cells (K3 and Cx43), proliferation (PCNA), and apoptosis (Caspase-3).

Results

The cell viability of the cultures was 98 ± 1% and remained high after storage. Mean central thickness of non-stored limbal epithelial sheets was 23 ± 3 μm, and no substantial loss of cells was observed after storage. The non-stored epithelial sheets expressed a predominantly immature phenotype with ΔNp63α positivity of more than 3% in 9 of 13 cultures. After storage, the expression of ABCG2 and C/EBP∂ was reduced for the 7 day Quantum 286-storage group; (P = 0.04), and Bmi-1 was reduced after 4 day Quantum 286-storage; (P = 0.02). No other markers varied significantly. The expression of differentiation markers was unrelated to the thickness of the epithelia and amniotic membrane, apart from ABCG2, which correlated negatively with thickness of limbal epithelia (R = -0.69, P = 0.01) and ΔNp63α, which correlated negatively with amniotic membrane thickness (R = -0.59, P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Limbal epithelial cells cultured from explants on amniotic membrane can be stored at 23°C in both serum-free and xenobiotic-free media, with sustained cell viability, ultrastructure, and ΔNp63α-positivity after both 4 and 7 days.

siRNA-mediated knockdown against NUF2 suppresses pancreatic cancer proliferation in vitro and in vivo

NUF2 (NUF2, Ndc80 kinetochore complex component) plays an important role in kinetochore-microtubule attachment. It has been reported that NUF2 is associated with multiple human cancers. However, the functional role of NUF2 in pancreatic cancer remains unclear. In this study, we found that NUF2 expression was stronger in tumour tissues than in normal pancreatic tissues, and its overexpression could be related to poor prognosis. Moreover, NUF2 was highly expressed in several human pancreatic cancer cell lines. We took advantage of lentivirus-mediated siRNA (small interfering RNA) to suppress NUF2 expression in PANC-1 and Sw1990 cell lines aiming to investigate the role of NUF2 in pancreatic cancer. NUF2 silencing by RANi (RNA interference) reduced the proliferation and colony formation ability of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro. Cell cycle analysis showed that NUF2 knockdown induced cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase via suppression of Cyclin B1, Cdc2 and Cdc25A. More importantly, NUF2 silencing was able to alleviate in vivo tumourigenesis in pancreatic cancer xenograft nude mice. Collectively, the present study indicates that the siRNA-mediated knockdown against NUF2 may be a promising therapeutic method for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

NUF2 is overexpressed in pancreatic cancer tissues and cell lines. siRNA-mediated knockdown against NUF2 resulted in a significant reduction in pancreatic cancer cell growth both in vitro and in vivo. NUF2 may be a promising therapeutic target in pancreatic cancer.

Melatonin attenuates hypoxic pulmonary hypertension by inhibiting the inflammation and the proliferation of pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells

Hypoxia-induced inflammation and excessive proliferation of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) play important roles in the pathological process of hypoxic pulmonary hypertension (HPH). Melatonin possesses anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties. However, the effect of melatonin on HPH remains unclear. In this study, adult Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to intermittent chronic hypoxia for 4 wk to mimic a severe HPH condition. Hemodynamic and pulmonary pathomorphology data showed that chronic hypoxia significantly increased right ventricular systolic pressures (RVSP), weight of the right ventricle/left ventricle plus septum (RV/LV+S) ratio, and median width of pulmonary arterioles. Melatonin attenuated the elevation of RVSP, RV/LV+S, and mitigated the pulmonary vascular structure remodeling. Melatonin also suppressed the hypoxia-induced high expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). In vitro, melatonin concentration-dependently inhibited the proliferation of PASMCs and the levels of phosphorylation of Akt and extracellular signal-regulated kinases1/2 (ERK1/2) caused by hypoxia. These results suggested that melatonin might potentially prevent HPH via anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative mechanisms.