Recombinant HCV core protein and the secretion of associated cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α and IFN-γ) in immunized mice

Impact of Hepatitis C Virus Infection of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells on the Immune System

Hepatitis C is a worldwide liver disease caused by hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The virus causes acute and chronic liver inflammation, and it is transmitted mainly by exposure to contaminated blood. HCV is capable of infecting hepatocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells, causing complications and disease progression. This mini review provides an overview of HCV infection, including details on the virological aspects, infection of the immune cells, and its impact on the immune system.

Matrix metalloproteinase-mediation of tumor targeting human recombinant tumor necrosis factor-α fusion protein

The aim of the present study was to use genetic engineering in order to establish an efficient tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α fusion protein with low toxicity, which may be used to target tumors. Four types of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-mediated tumor targeting human recombinant TNF-α (rhTNF-α) fusion protein vectors were constructed. These were subsequently introduced into Escherichia coli. rhTNF-α fusion protein with a glutathione S-transferase (GST)-tag was purified using GST resin affinity chromatography, and GST-tags were digested using factor Xa. The cytotoxic effects of the fusion protein on L929 cells were determined using MTT assays. At a concentration of 1 pM, the GST-tagged fusion protein exerted no cytotoxic effects on the cells, compared with the negative control cells (P=0.975>0.05). However, at a concentration of 1000 pM, the deblocking fusion protein exerted greater cytotoxic effects on L929 cells, compared with positive control cells (P<0.05). Treatment with the fusion protein also induced cell apoptosis in the nasopharyngeal cancer cell line, CNE-2Z, which secretes high levels of MMP-1. In conclusion, the results of the present study suggested that MMP-mediated rhTNF-α fusion protein induces CNE-2Z cells apoptosis. rhTNF-α exhibits high efficacy and tumor cell targeting capability, with low toxicity effects on healthy cells.