Variation of Physiological and Behavioural Parameters during the Oestrous Cycle in Mares

The behaviour of oestrous mares is well-known in horse breeding. However, alterations in their physiological and behavioural indices during the whole oestrous cycle are scarcely known. The objective of the study was to analyse changes in cardiac activity variables, rectal and superficial temperatures, behaviour towards humans and conspecifics, and the time of standing and locomotor activity in mares during their oestrous cycle. Fifteen adult mares in oestrus were examined in the morning and evening (six successive days) and in dioestrus (five days-once every third day). The oscillation of physiological and behavioural variables accompanies changes in mares' sexual behaviour. Most physiological variables studied in oestrus indicate the elevated activity of the adrenergic nervous system and, opposite to that, both behaviour towards humans and conspecifics and the time of standing relate to a relaxed state. The end of oestrus, manifested by a rapid decrease in most of the physiological variables studied, is followed by changes of behavioural variables at the beginning of dioestrus. The time of locomotor activity arises at the end of oestrus. The outcomes may contribute to the knowledge of, among others, mare owners who evaluate the oestrus by mares' sexual behaviours without regarding other rhythmically changing variables.

PROM1, CXCL8, RUNX1, NAV1 and TP73 genes as independent markers predictive of prognosis or response to treatment in two cohorts of high-grade serous ovarian cancer patients

Considering the vast biological diversity and high mortality rate in high-grade ovarian cancers, identification of novel biomarkers, enabling precise diagnosis and effective, less aggravating treatment, is of paramount importance. Based on scientific literature data, we selected 80 cancer-related genes and evaluated their mRNA expression in 70 high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) samples by Real-Time qPCR. The results were validated in an independent Northern American cohort of 85 HGSOC patients with publicly available NGS RNA-seq data. Detailed statistical analyses of our cohort with multivariate Cox and logistic regression models considering clinico-pathological data and different TP53 mutation statuses, revealed an altered expression of 49 genes to affect the prognosis and/or treatment response. Next, these genes were investigated in the validation cohort, to confirm the clinical significance of their expression alterations, and to identify genetic variants with an expected high or moderate impact on their products. The expression changes of five genes, PROM1, CXCL8, RUNX1, NAV1, TP73, were found to predict prognosis or response to treatment in both cohorts, depending on the TP53 mutation status. In addition, we revealed novel and confirmed known SNPs in these genes, and showed that SNPs in the PROM1 gene correlated with its elevated expression.

Horses’ Response to a Novel Diet: Different Herbs Added to Dry, Wet or Wet-Sweetened Oats

Simple Summary

The commercial horse feed industry uses palatants to mask undesirable tastes of feed and enhance consumption. However, an unknown smell or taste may also hinder feed intake, due to, among other aspects, novelty. The acceptability of herbs by horses has not been studied. We analysed whether five herbs (field mint, common yarrow, common chamomile, common sage and common nettle) added alternately to oats and presented within a dry, wet or wet-sweetened diet influence horses’ willingness to consume. Twenty horses were given different diet combinations of a feed presentation and a herb consecutively, once daily. Seven parameters showing the willingness to consume were measured: times of olfaction and consumption, times and numbers of intervals in consumption and drinking water, and mass of leftovers. The results show that the herbs in the amount offered did not influence the time of intake and only the dry oats with common sage added were smelled longer before consuming. However, wetting or wetting and sweetening the feed increased the willingness to eat. In conclusion, herbs in small amounts do not affect the feed intake, whereas wetting and sweetening the diet is of great importance and should be regarded when preparing horse diets.

Abstract

The commercial horse feed industry uses palatants to mask undesirable tastes of feeds and enhance product acceptance. However, an unknown odour or taste may also hinder feed intake, due to, inter alia, novelty. The objective of the study was to assess the horses’ response to novel diet: five different herbs added alternately to dry, wet or wet-sweetened oats. Twenty adult horses were given different diet combinations of a feed presentation and a herb: field mint, common yarrow, common chamomile, common sage and common nettle, consecutively, once daily. The response to novelty was assessed regarding traits showing the willingness to consume: times of olfaction and consumption, times and numbers of intervals in consumption and drinking water, and the mass of leftovers. The results show that properties of the herbs studied did not hinder the consumption and only the odour of the dry common sage delayed the intake. Wetting or wetting and sweetening the diet accelerated the intake. In conclusion, herbs in small amounts do not significantly affect the willingness to consume feed. Although wet and wet-sweetened diet presentations may be novel to horses, they increase the feed palatability and can be suggested for use when preparing horse diets.

Circulating miRNAs as Potential Biomarkers for Celiac Disease Development

Background & Aims

Celiac disease (CeD), an immune-mediated disease with enteropathy triggered by gluten, affects ~1% of the general European population. Currently, there are no biomarkers to predict CeD development. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short RNAs involved in post-transcriptional gene regulation, and certain disease- and stage-specific miRNA profiles have been found previously. We aimed to investigate whether circulating miRNAs can predict the development of CeD.

Methods

Using next-generation miRNA-sequencing, we determined miRNAs in >200 serum samples from 53 participants of the PreventCD study, of whom 33 developed CeD during follow-up. Following study inclusion at 3 months of age, samples were drawn at predefined ages, diagnosis (first anti-transglutaminase antibody (TGA) positivity or diagnostic biopsy) and after the start of a gluten-free diet (GFD). This allowed identification of circulating miRNAs that are deregulated before TGA positivity. For validation of the biomarkers for CeD and GFD response, two additional cohorts were included in subsequent meta-analyses. Additionally, miRNAs were measured in duodenal biopsies in a case-control cohort.

Results

53 circulating miRNAs were increased (27) or decreased (26) in CeD versus controls. We assessed specific trends in these individual miRNAs in the PreventCD cohort by grouping the pre-diagnostic samples of the CeD patients (all had negative TGA) by how close to seroconversion (first sample positive TGA) the samples were taken. 8/53 miRNAs differed significantly between controls and samples taken <1 year before TGA positivity: miR-21-3p, miR-374a-5p, 144-3p, miR-500a-3p, miR-486-3p let-7d-3p, let-7e-5p and miR-3605-3p. 6/26 downregulated miRNAs reconstituted upon GFD, including miR-150-5p/-3p, whereas no upregulated miRNAs were downregulated upon GFD. 15/53 biomarker candidates also differed between CeD biopsies and controls, with a concordant direction, indicating that these circulating miRNAs might originate from the intestine.

Conclusions

We identified 53 circulating miRNAs that are potential early biomarkers for CeD, of which several can be detected more than a year before TGA positivity and some start to normalize upon GFD.

Physcion Induces Potential Anticancer Effects in Cervical Cancer Cells

BACKGROUND

The extent of morphological and ultrastructural changes in HeLa cells was assessed by optical, fluorescence and electron microscopy after exposure to various concentrations of physcion, taking into account the biological properties of the test compound.

METHODS

Cell viability was assessed by MTT assay, while the cell cycle, LC3 expression, apoptosis, change of mitochondrial potential, Bcl-2 protein expression level and the level of reactive oxygen species were analyzed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

As a result of physcion encumbrance, concentration-dependent inhibition of HeLa cell viability and the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle was observed. Activation of the lysosomal system was also revealed, which was expressed by an increased number of lysosomes, autophage vacuoles and increased expression of the LC3 protein, a marker of the autophagy process. Transmission electron microscopy and fluorescence microscopy showed that physcion induced clear changes in cervical cancer cells, especially in the structure of the nucleus and mitochondria, which correlated with the production of reactive oxygen species by the test compound and indicated the induction of the oxidative process. At the same time, the pro-apoptotic effect of physcion was demonstrated, and this mechanism was dependent on the activation of caspases 3/7 and the reduction in Bcl-2 protein expression.

CONCLUSION

The obtained results indicate an antitumor mechanism of action of physcion, based on the induction of oxidative stress, autophagy and apoptosis.

The potential antitumor effect of chrysophanol in relation to cervical cancer cells

Chrysophanol is an anthraquinone with proven antitumor activity against several tumor cell lines. However, its effect on cervical cancer cells is still unknown. Therefore, HeLa cells were exposed to various concentrations of chrysophanol and then subjected to biochemical, ultrastructural, and morphological analysis. It has been shown using flow cytometry and MTT reduction assay that chrysophanol has been shown to inhibit cell viability and arrest cells in the G2/M phase of the cell cycle. Using Annexin V/propidium iodide staining, a significant increase in apoptosis was found after chrysophanol treatment on HeLa cells, and this process was mediated by caspases 3/7 with a clear inactivation of the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family protein. However, the demonstrated increased number of cells with double-stranded DNA breaks suggests that chrysophanol also causes DNA damage. By means of electron and fluorescence microscopy, a clear effect of chrysophanol on the intensification of degradation processes, on changes in the structure of the nucleus, endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria was demonstrated. The changes visible in the mitochondria may be related to the increase in the level of free radicals induced by chrysophanol, which induces apoptosis, inter alia, by increasing the permeability of mitochondrial membranes. The range of observed changes depended on the concentration of anthraquinone was tested.

Heart rate variability in Konik and purebred Arabian horses in response to different predator vocalisations

The current predation threat of domestic horses is generally low, and horses do not know predators' frightening cues. We studied whether horses still recognise predation threats. The aim of the study was to analyse the emotional response of purebred Arabian horses (Arabian) and Polish Konik horses (Konik) to an Arabian panther (Panthera pardus nimr) (panther) growl and a grey wolf (Canis lupus) (wolf) howl. Panther vocalisation was known to Arabian ancestors, whereas ancestors of Konik knew wolf vocalisation. The response to the howls of golden jackals (Canis aureus) (jackal), which did not prey on equids, was also studied comparatively. Two groups of 10 adult horses of each breed were subject to predator sounds of one predator daily for 5 min during a turn out on pasture. The test was performed for 18 days in total. The sound of each predator was interchangeably featured from one loudspeaker for 3 days followed by four loudspeakers simultaneously to imitate a group of predators for 3 days. The horses' emotional agitation in response to the sounds was measured based on the parameters of heart rate variability (HRV) using telemetric devices. The results showed that the predators' sounds were identified by horses as stressful or neutral. Horses generally retained their anti-predator responses even in the current habitat, which typically lacks predation cues. The results are not always coherent and may demonstrate that the response is somewhat attenuated. The wolf howl elicited a stronger response in Koniks. The panther growl more strongly influenced Arabians, whereas the jackal howl minimally elicited an agitation in the horses. The differentiated response of the two horse breeds to the three predator species suggests that the response is an innate adaptation to the predation risk in the habitat of the breed ancestors. This response occurs regardless of the emotional arousal specific to a breed, and the frightening cue is not the sound per se but the possible attack of predators. Horses display a type of understanding of the sound meaning. Their HRV response seems to be adequate for the threat signalised by the sound.

The intensity of physiological and behavioral responses of horses to predator vocalizations

Background

Predatory attacks on horses can become a problem in some parts of the world, particularly when considering the recovering gray wolf populations. The issue studied was whether horses transformed by humans and placed in stable-pasture environments had retained their natural abilities to respond to predation risk. The objective of the study was to determine the changes in cardiac activity, cortisol concentrations, and behavior of horses in response to the vocalizations of two predators: the gray wolf (Canis lupus), which the horses of the breed studied had coevolved with but not been exposed to recently, and Arabian leopard (Panthera pardus nimr), from which the horses had been mostly isolated. In addition, we hypothesized that a higher proportion of Thoroughbred (TB) horse ancestry in the pedigree would result in higher emotional excitability in response to predator vocalizations. Nineteen horses were divided into groups of 75%, 50% and 25% TB ancestry. The auditory test conducted in a paddock comprised a 10-min prestimulus period, a 5-min stimulus period when one of the predators was heard, and a 10-min poststimulus period without any experimental stimuli.

Results

The increase in heart rate and saliva cortisol concentration in response to predator vocalizations indicated some level of stress in the horses. The lowered beat-to-beat intervals revealed a decrease in parasympathetic nervous system activity. The behavioral responses were less distinct than the physiological changes. The responses were more pronounced with leopard vocalizations than wolf vocalizations.

Conclusions

The horses responded with weak signs of anxiety when exposed to predator vocalizations. A tendency towards a stronger internal reaction to predators in horses with a higher proportion of TB genes suggested that the response intensity was partly innate. The more pronounced response to leopard than wolf may indicate that horses are more frightened of a threatening sound from an unknown predator than one known by their ancestors. The differing response can be also due to differences in the characteristic of the predators’ vocalizations. Our findings suggested that the present-day horses’ abilities to coexist with predators are weak. Hence, humans should protect horses against predation, especially when introducing them into seminatural locations.

hMTH1 and GPX1 expression in human thyroid tissue is interrelated to prevent oxidative DNA damage

Oxidative stress (OS) is recognized as disturbance of cellular equilibrium between reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and their elimination by antioxidant defense systems. One example of ROS-mediated damage is generation of potentially mutagenic DNA precursor, 8-oxodGTP. In human cells genomic 8-oxodGTP incorporation is prevented by the MutT homologue 1 (MTH1 or hMTH1 for human MTH1) protein. It is well established that malignant cells, including thyroid cancer cells, require hMTH1 for maintaining proliferation and cancerous transformation phenotype. Above observations led to the development of hMTH1 inhibitors as novel anticancer therapeutics. In the current study we present extensive analysis of oxidative stress responses determining sensitivity to hMTH1 deficiency in cultured thyroid cells. We observe here that hMTH1 depletion results in downregulation of several glutathione-dependent OS defense system factors, including GPX1 and GCLM, making some of the tested thyroid cell lines highly dependent on glutathione levels. This is evidenced by the increased ROS burden and enhanced proliferation defect after combination of hMTH1 siRNA and glutathione synthesis inhibition. Moreover, due to the lack of data on hMTH1 expression in human thyroid tumor specimens we decided to perform detailed analysis of hMTH1 expression in thyroid tumor and peri-tumoral tissues from human patients. Our results allow us to propose here that anticancer activity of hMTH1 suppression may be boosted by combination with agents modulating glutathione pool, but further studies are necessary to precisely identify backgrounds susceptible to such combination treatment.

Selected CD molecules and the phagocytosis of microvesicles released from erythrocytes ex vivo

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The accumulation of microvesicles in erythrocyte concentrates during storage or irradiation may be responsible for clinical symptoms such as inflammation, coagulation and immunization. Our aim was to determine whether any of the cluster of differentiation (CD) molecules responsible for important functions are present on microvesicles, and if their expression level is dependent on the storage period of erythrocyte concentrates.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Erythrocyte microvesicles were isolated from 'fresh' (2^nd day) and 'old' (42^nd day) stored erythrocyte concentrates. Qualitative cytometric analysis of 0·5 µm, erythrocyte-derived, PS-exposing vesicles was performed using the annexin V-FITC, anti-CD235a-PE antibody and calibrated beads. The microvesicles were also visualized under a confocal microscope. The expression of the molecules CD235a, CD44, CD47, CD55, CD59 and of phosphatidylserine (PS) was compared using flow cytometry. Measurements of microvesicle phagocytosis by human monocytes were carried out using a flow cytometer and a confocal microscope.

RESULTS

The analysis of the microvesicles with calibration beads allowed us to identify these structures with a diameter of about 0·5 µm in the 'fresh' and 'old' samples. At day 2, the microvesicles had elevated expression levels of CD47, reduced expression levels of PS, CD55 and CD59. The phagocytosis index was higher for the microvesicles isolated from the 42-day-old erythrocyte concentrates.

CONCLUSION

This research may bring us closer to understanding the factors responsible for erythrocyte ageing and to evaluate the quality of stored red blood concentrates intended for transfusion.

Molecular Signature of Prospero Homeobox 1 (PROX1) in Follicular Thyroid Carcinoma Cells

The prospero homeobox 1 (PROX1) transcription factor is a product of one of the lymphangiogenesis master genes. It has also been suggested to play a role in carcinogenesis, although its precise role in tumour development and metastasis remains unclear. The aim of this study was to gain more knowledge on the PROX1 function in thyroid tumorigenesis. Follicular thyroid cancer-derived cells—CGTH-W-1—were transfected with PROX1-siRNA (small interfering RNA) and their proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and motility were then analysed. The transcriptional signature of PROX1 depletion was determined using RNA-Sequencing (RNA-Seq) and the expression of relevant genes was further validated using reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), Western blot and immunocytochemistry. PROX1 depletion resulted in a decreased cell motility, with both migratory and invasive potential being significantly reduced. The cell morphology was also affected, while the other studied cancer-related cell characteristics were not significantly altered. RNA-seq analysis revealed significant changes in the expression of transcripts encoding genes involved in both motility and cytoskeleton organization. Our transcriptional analysis of PROX1-depleted follicular thyroid carcinoma cells followed by functional and phenotypical analyses provide, for the first time, evidence that PROX1 plays an important role in the metastasis of thyroid cancer cells by regulating genes involved in focal adhesion and cytoskeleton organization in tumour cells.

Emodin Induces Death in Human Cervical Cancer Cells Through Mitotic Catastrophe

BACKGROUND

Anthraquinones, including emodin, are compounds with numerous pharmacological properties, including anticancer properties. The aim of this study experiment was to examine the effect of emodin, a natural compound present in the roots and rhizomes of Rheum palmatum, on the induction of mitotic catastrophe in cervical cancer cells.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

HeLa celIs were treated with different emodin concentrations for 48 h, and cell growth was measured with 3-(4-,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolyl. The cell-cycle distribution and the level of apoptosis were determined by means of flow cytometry, using annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate staining and propidium iodide. Morphological changes in the mitotic apparatus were evaluated using optical and confocal microscopy techniques.

RESULTS

Emodin induced an increase in the number of polymorphonuclear cells, giant cells, cells with micronuclei, cells with abnormal mitosis and damaged spindle. The reorganization of F-actin depended on the concentration of emodin. With the increase in emodin concentration, inhibition of mitotic activity was demonstrated, which was manifested by a decrease in the mitotic index, mainly in metaphase of the mitotic process and an increase in the number of cells inhibited in the G₂/M phase. At the same time, an increase in the number of apoptotic cells was found.

CONCLUSION

Emodin leads to death of cervical cancer cells by induction of a mitotic catastrophe.

MIX2: A Novel Natural Multi-Component Modulator of Multidrug-Resistance and Hallmarks of Cancer Cells

Multidrug resistance is one of the key barriers suppressing the effectiveness of drug therapies of malignant tumors. Here, we report a study on the effect of a mix of natural extracts (MIX2) prepared from fresh fruits of Prunus spinosa, Crataegus monogyna, Sorbus aucuparia, and Euonymus europaeus on the classic hallmarks of cancer cells and the expression of multidrug resistance proteins. In the studies, HeLa and T98G cell lines, and classic methods of molecular biology, including RT-qPCR, Western blot, flow cytometry, and confocal imaging, were used. Additionally, migration, adhesion, and proliferation assays were performed. The obtained results indicate that the MIX2 cocktail presents strong anti-cancer properties. MIX2 is not toxic, but at the same time significantly alters the migration, proliferation, and adhesion of tumor cells. Furthermore, it was found that cells exposed to the mixture presented a significantly reduced expression level of genes associated with MDR, including ABCB1, which encodes for glycoprotein P. In vitro data showed that MIX2 effectively sensitizes tumor cells to doxorubicin. We postulate that modulation of the multidrug resistance phenotype of tumors with the use of MIX2 may be considered as a safe and applicable tool in sustaining drug delivery therapies of malignancies.

Emotional excitability and behaviour of horses in response to stroking various regions of the body

Touching the skin by gentle stroking is frequently used to reward horses. The objective of the study was to examine emotional excitability and behaviour of horses in response to stroking different regions of their bodies. The study included 15 adult warmbloods and 15 adult ponies, nine geldings and six mares within each type of horse. First, a novel-object test was conducted. For five successive days, one of five regions of the horse's body was stroked on each side for 5 min. Heart rate and heart rate variability were monitored at rest, during the test and stroking. Simultaneously, horse behaviour was assessed on a 1-5 scale. The data were analysed using analysis of variance GLM, Tukey's Honestly Significant Difference test and Spearman's correlation coefficient. When stroked, horses were more excited than when at rest. Differences in emotional excitability and behaviour while stroking various body regions depended on the type and sex of horses. Parameters studied indicated that both in warmbloods and ponies, stroking the head may be beneficial, whereas the trunk should be treated with caution. Stroking may have a more positive influence in horses of lower emotionality and highly estimated behaviour at rest and during the novel-object test.

hMTH1 is required for maintaining migration and invasion potential of human thyroid cancer cells

Cancer cells, including thyroid cancer cells, suffer from oxidative stress damaging multiple cellular targets, such as DNA and the nucleotide pool. The human MutT homologue 1 (hMTH1) controls the oxidative DNA damage load by sanitizing the nucleotide pool from the oxidized DNA precursor, 8-oxodGTP. It has previously been shown that hMTH1 is essential for cancer cell proliferation and survival, therefore hMTH1 inhibition has been proposed as a novel anticancer therapeutic strategy. Here we show that thyroid cancer cells respond to siRNA mediated hMTH1 depletion with increased DNA damage load and moderately reduced proliferation rates, but without detectable apoptosis, cell-cycle arrest or senescence. Importantly, however, hMTH1 depletion significantly reduced migration and invasion potential of the thyroid cancer cells. Accordingly, our results allow us to propose that hMTH1 may be a therapeutic target in thyroid malignancy, especially for controlling metastasis.

Changes in Blood Lymphocyte Subpopulations and Expression of MHC-II Molecules in Wild Mares Before and After Parturition

Introduction

Pregnancy is a physiological state in which the immune system undergoes certain changes. On the one hand, by depleting cell defence mechanisms, it favours development and maintenance of the pregnancy. At the same time cells of the immune system ensure resistance to many risk factors, including infectious agents.

Material and Methods

The study was carried out on 24 Polish Konik breed mares which were divided into two equal groups. The first group (group I) included mares living in the reserve. The second group (group II) comprised mares maintained under conventional conditions in the stables. The blood samples were collected for the first time in the perinatal period, i.e. 2 weeks before parturition (trial 0), then within the first 24 h after delivery, and then on 7^th and 21^st day after foaling. Flow cytometric analysis of lymphocyte expressing TCD4+, TCD8+, CD2+, and MHC class II antigens was performed.

Results

Before the delivery, in group I there was a significantly higher CD4:CD8 ratio compared to group II (P ≤ 0.05). Similarly, significantly increased CD4:CD8 ratio in group I was noted within 24 h after parturition (P ≤ 0.001) and it was also observed on 7^th day (P ≤ 0.03) and 21^st day after foaling (P ≤ 0.02). In the first 24 h after parturition, a significant decline of lymphocytes CD8+ (P ≤ 0.02) was noted. No significant differences in terms of lymphocytes CD2+ and CD3+ were observed. Expression of MHC-II molecules before and after the parturition was higher in group I compared to group II; however, the difference between the groups was not significant.

Conclusion

The results obtained indicate that mares living in the reserve display higher activity of cell defence mechanisms.

Induction of Mitotic Catastrophe in Human Cervical Cancer Cells After Administration of Aloe-emodin

BACKGROUND

Aloe-emodin is an anthraquinone with potential pharmacological properties, including numerous antitumor properties. The purpose of the study was to determine whether aloe-emodin induces mitotic death in cervical cancer cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Analysis of morphological changes as surrogate mitotic death indicators in HeLa cells was carried out using optical, fluorescence and electron microscopy. Viability was determined by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2-5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide reduction assay. Cell-cycle analysis was performed using flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Aloe-emodin increased the number of multinucleate cells, giant and micronuclear cells. There was a concentration-dependent decrease in the mitotic index with a predominance of cells in the metaphase of the mitotic process and inhibition of division in the G₂/M phase of the cell cycle. The presence of cells with abnormal mitosis and cells with injury to the division spindle was also demonstrated.

CONCLUSION

Aloe-emodin induces mitotic catastrophe in cervical cancer cells.

The significance of c.690G>T polymorphism (rs34529039) and expression of the CEBPA gene in ovarian cancer outcome

The CEBPA gene is known to be mutated or abnormally expressed in several cancers. This is the first study assessing the clinical impact of CEBPA gene status and expression on the ovarian cancer outcome. The CEBPA gene sequence was analyzed in 118 ovarian cancer patients (44 platinum/cyclophosphamide (PC)-treated and 74 taxane/platinum (TP)-treated), both in tumors and blood samples, and in blood from 236 healthy women, using PCR-Sanger sequencing and Real-Time quantitative PCR (qPCR)-based genotyping methods, respectively. The CEBPA mRNA level was examined with Reverse Transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). The results were correlated to different clinicopathological parameters. Thirty of 118 (25.4%) tumors harbored the CEBPA synonymous c.690G>T polymorphism (rs34529039), that we showed to be related to up-regulation of CEBPA mRNA levels (p=0.0059). The presence of the polymorphism was significantly associated with poor prognosis (p=0.005) and poor response to the PC chemotherapy regimen (p=0.024). In accordance, elevated CEBPA mRNA levels negatively affected patient survival (p<0.001) and tumor response to the PC therapy (p=0.014). The rs34529039 SNP did not affect the risk of developing ovarian cancer. This is the first study providing evidence that the c.690G>T, p.(Thr230Thr) (rs34529039) polymorphism of the CEBPA gene, together with up-regulation of its mRNA expression, are negative factors worsening ovarian cancer outcome. Their adverse clinical effect depends on a therapeutic regimen used, which might make them potential prognostic and predictive biomarkers for response to DNA-damaging chemotherapy.

Aloe-Emodin Influence on the Lysosomal Compartment of Hela Cells

Background: Aloe-emodin belongs to the group of anthraquinones having extremely high biological activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the range of morphological and biochemical changes in HeLa cells treated with aloe-emodin, especially with regard to the lysosomal compartment. Methods: Marking of lysosomes was performed with neutral red staining for conventional light microscopy and acridine orange staining for confocal microscopy. To evaluate ctivity of lysosomal enzymes and permeability of the lysosomal membrane, spectrophotometric techniques were employed. Results: Aloe-emodin caused increased permeability of lysosomal membranes in HeLa cells, expressed inter alia by extinction of the orange color of acridine orange (lysosomal marker) and in reduction of neutral red uptake by lysosomes. These changes are accompanied by release of cathepsins from the interior of the lysosomes with a simultaneous highly significant increase in their activity in the cytoplasm. Conclusion: The results indicate that aloeemodin can activate lysosomal pathway-dependent apoptosis in HeLa cells.

Serum amyloid A protein (SAA), haptoglobin (Hp) and selected hematological and biochemical parameters in wild mares before and after parturition

The aim of the study was to evaluate physiological changes in hematological and biochemical parameters in mares in perinatal period. Blood samples were collected from 24 pregnant Polish Konik breed mares which were divided into two groups. The first group (Group - I, n=12) comprised mares living in the wild, in the reserve. The second group (Group - II, n=12) consisted of mares kept in stables. The blood was collected 2 weeks prior to the parturition, then 24 hours after the delivery, and then at the 7th and 21st day after foaling. When comparing the two groups before the parturition, no significant differences in terms of WBC, RBC, and Hb were found, however, there was a significant difference in MCV, MCH, LYM, NEU and SEG NEU (p≤0.05). In Group II, 24 hours after the parturition and at the 21st day after foaling, a significant raise in WBC, NEU and SEG NEU (p≤0.05) was detected. No significant differences in serum concentrations of proteins such as TP, Alb or Glb were observed. As to acute phase proteins, significant rise in SAA and Hp (p≤0.05) was found in the two examined groups 24 hours after the parturition. Yet, this rise remained within physiological range. The study revealed a certain degree of fluctuations in hematological parameters, in serum concentrations of acute-phase proteins and total proteins in the mares in the perinatal period. However, these changes remained still within physiological ranges and thus they do not indicate potential susceptibility to disorders of perinatal period.

Age-dependent expression of Nav1.9 channels in medial prefrontal cortex pyramidal neurons in rats

Developmental changes that occur in the prefrontal cortex during adolescence alter behavior. These behavioral alterations likely stem from changes in prefrontal cortex neuronal activity, which may depend on the properties and expression of ion channels. Nav1.9 sodium channels conduct a Na⁺ current that is TTX resistant with a low threshold and noninactivating over time. The purpose of this study was to assess the presence of Nav1.9 channels in medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) layer II and V pyramidal neurons in young (20-day old), late adolescent (60-day old), and adult (6- to 7-month old) rats. First, we demonstrated that layer II and V mPFC pyramidal neurons in slices obtained from young rats exhibited a TTX-resistant, low-threshold, noninactivating, and voltage-dependent Na⁺ current. The mRNA expression of the SCN11a gene (which encodes the Nav1.9 channel) in mPFC tissue was significantly higher in young rats than in late adolescent and adult rats. Nav1.9 protein was immunofluorescently labeled in mPFC cells in slices and analyzed via confocal microscopy. Nav1.9 immunolabeling was present in layer II and V mPFC pyramidal neurons and was more prominent in the neurons of young rats than in the neurons of late adolescent and adult rats. We conclude that Nav1.9 channels are expressed in layer II and V mPFC pyramidal neurons and that Nav1.9 protein expression in the mPFC pyramidal neurons of late adolescent and adult rats is lower than that in the neurons of young rats. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 77: 1371-1384, 2017.

Inter- and intra-genetic diversity in the Polish Konik horse: implications for the conservation program

The main objective of the study was to determine the genetic diversity in the Polish Konik (PK) population in the context of a currently conducted conservation program. A total of 94 horses of 16 PK dam lines currently distinguished by breeders were considered. Pedigree analyses were carried out for the whole population of PK registered in the studbook. Basic molecular parameters were estimated. The average group linkage clustering method was used based on the Euclidean similarity measurements between the lines. The allele frequency of 17 microsatellites was used to determine Euclidean distances. Inbreeding coefficients were extracted from the additive relationship matrix. Moreover, some pedigree parameters were estimated. The observed heterozygosity ranged from 0.48 to 0.76. The expected heterozygosity estimated for the dam lines was higher. PIC values were higher than 0.6 in all the lines. Fis ranged from –0.19 to 0.28, whereas Fit and Fst varied between 0.12 and 0.41 and 0.12 and 0.29, respectively. Minor dissimilarity distances existed for some dam lines. The inbreeding level was 9.3%. The average number of discrete generation equivalents reached 6.85. The majority of the dam lines are not genetically differentiated. Hence, a revision of the breeding strategy seems to be necessary.

The effect of relaxing massage on heart rate and heart rate variability in purebred Arabian racehorses

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of relaxing massage on the heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) in young racehorses during their first racing season. In the study, 72 Purebred Arabian racehorses were included. The study was implemented during the full race season. The horses from control and experimental groups were included in regular race training 6 days a week. The horses from the experimental group were additionally subject to the relaxing massage 3 days a week during the whole study. HR and HRV were assumed as indicators of the emotional state of the horses. The measurements were taken six times, every 4-5 weeks. The HRV parameters were measured at rest, during grooming and saddling the horse and during warm-up walking under a rider. The changes of the parameters throughout the season suggest that the relaxing massage may be effectively used to make the racehorses more relaxed and calm. Moreover, the horses from the experimental group had better race performance records.

Changes of coat cover in primitive horses living on a reserve

Changes in the coat cover are important for mammalian thermoregulation. This is especially true where variable environmental conditions exist throughout the seasons. Coat cover shedding is the replacement of old coat hair with new hair. The process differs in various equids. The aim of the study was to examine the changes in the coat of primitive Polish Konik horses living on a reserve in southeast Poland (50.6319° N). The reserve is located in a temperate climate. The mean temperature is below 0°C in winter (December 8 to March 9) and over 15°C in summer (June 8 to September 8). Five adult mares were included in the study. The study used a specific methodical approach to quantitatively assess coat cover changes. Photos were taken once every 2 wk throughout the whole year to document the state of the mares' coat. MultiScanBase software was used to analyze 260 photos. The percentage of the skin surface covered with short hair in relation to the surface of the body (without the head, neck, and limbs; short hair body [SHB]) was determined. To assess the topography of coat changes, surface parts covered with short hair within 6 regions of the body (shoulder, back, chest, loins, belly, and hindquarters; short hair part [SHP]) were considered separately. The regression coefficient was calculated for the SHB and the air temperature. Correlations in SHP and SHB between the left and right sides of the body were determined. The correlations within the right side of the body concerned particular SHP. As the results show, the coat changes take place at the same time on both sides of the horse's body. In spring, the winter hair is shed, and in the fall, the winter hair grows in longer. High regression (0.901; < 0.0001) proved that air temperature strongly affected the coat changes. The most important increase of SHB occurs in April and the first half of May, whereas the main decrease of SHB takes place in September. Changes between SHP are highly correlated (0.967-0.994; < 0.05). Spring and fall coat changes demonstrate that the shoulders, back, and loins require the winter cover for a longer time than the chest and belly, whereas the hindquarters are the least demanding in this respect. The phenomenon may be associated with, among others, the stronger effect of rain and snow on the upper parts of the body.

Can Releasing Racehorses to Paddocks be Beneficial? Heart Rate Analysis – Preliminary Study

The aim of the study was to assess the effect of allowing racehorses to use paddocks, on the heart rate (HR). HR was used as a measure of horses’ psychosomatic response to environment effect. The study involved 90 Purebred Arabian horses divided into three groups of equal numbers of stallions and mares. The control group (C) was trained at the racetrack. The other two groups were trained in an off-the-racetrack centre and therefore, they were regularly transported to the races. One of those groups (T) was maintained in the same manner as horses at the racetrack, without access to paddocks. Horses from the other group (TP) were additionally released into a paddock every day. Each horse was examined within five three-week measuring periods, during one training season. HR was registered at rest, during saddling, and while walking with a rider. A multivariate analysis of variance (ANOVA, GLM) was used to compare HR. The significance of differences between means was determined using Tukey’s test. HR registered from 2nd to 5th measuring periods during saddling and walking was generally lower in TP than in C. For example, in stallions during saddling, HR amounted to: 54.4±14.7 vs 65.3±12.1, 53.2±13.5 vs 64.4±13.1, 55.4±12.2 vs 65.0±11.0 and 53.4±14.0 vs 66.5±13.8 beats/min, respectively. In T stallions and mares, HR tended to increase when the transportation began which was particularly pronounced at rest. The study revealed that the possibility of turnout into paddocks reduced HR in racehorses, in comparison to horses trained at racetrack. Training for horse racing in an off-the-racetrack centre with the use of paddocks was assessed as beneficial, provided the horses were used to being transported.

Release kinetics of circulating miRNA-208a in the early phase of myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

The biochemical confirmation of myocardial infarction is based on cardiac troponin (cTnI or cTnT) determination. Recent scientific results suggested that microRNAs (miRNAs) might become a new biomarker of tissue injury.

AIM

To evaluate the release kinetics of circulating heart-specific miRNA-208a and also to test the hypothesis that miRNA-208a can serve as an accessible, diagnostically sensitive plasma biomarker of ST-elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI).

METHODS

Nineteen STEMI patients (four women and 15 men, aged 44-85 years), 12 patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD), and eight patients with a negative observation of CAD as a control group were studied. Blood samples were collected on admission and at three, six, 12, 24, and 48 h afterwards; in the CAD and control group blood samples were taken only once. Plasma levels of miRNA-208a determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and their relative fold changes were calculated. cTnI and creatinine kinase (CK)-MB mass were also measured in the patients’ serum samples.

RESULTS

miRNA-208a was increased in STEMI patients at the time of admission and nearly undetectable in CAD patients and controls. The peak of miRNA-208a was observed at 3 h after reperfusion (p < 0.001). The traditional biomarkers (cTnI and CK-MBmass), which increase later in comparison to miRNA-208a reaching the maximum concentrations 6 h after reperfusion, were observed. Circulating miRNA-208a levels strongly correlated with cTnI and CK-MBmass released from the infarcted area.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that plasma miRNA-208a is an interesting and promising candidate for a new biomarker released early after onset of myocardial infarction.

Small and Long Regulatory RNAs in the Immune System and Immune Diseases

Cellular differentiation is regulated on the level of gene expression, and it is known that dysregulation of gene expression can lead to deficiencies in differentiation that contribute to a variety of diseases, particularly of the immune system. Until recently, it was thought that the dysregulation was governed by changes in the binding or activity of a class of proteins called transcription factors. However, the discovery of micro-RNAs and recent descriptions of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have given enormous momentum to a whole new field of biology: the regulatory RNAs. In this review, we describe these two classes of regulatory RNAs and summarize what is known about how they regulate aspects of the adaptive and innate immune systems. Finally, we describe what is known about the involvement of micro-RNAs and lncRNAs in three different autoimmune diseases (celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and multiple sclerosis).

Feto-maternal haemorrhage assessment in a woman with a large population of red blood cells containing fetal haemoglobin

BACKGROUND

FMH quantification is necessary to calculate an individual dose of prophylactic anti-RhD immunoglobulin and to diagnose fetal anaemia causes. We encountered a healthy woman with a numerous RBCs containing fetal haemoglobin (HbF).

AIMS

To investigate the cause of this sign and the correct evaluation of fetal RBCs in maternal circulation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients samples and artificial mixtures were tested by microscopic Kleihaur-Betke (KB) and flow cytometric (FC) tests with anti-HbF + anti-CA (carbonic anhydrase), and with anti-D. The patient's blood count with reticulocyte parameters, and concentration of bilirubin, haptoglobin, iron, transferrin, ferritin, hepcidin, sTR, HbF, HbA2 were measured. Genes coding the beta- and gamma-globin were sequenced.

RESULTS

It was impossible to distinguish the population of fetal and maternal HbF positive cells using KBT and FC with anti-HbF. Application of anti-CA and anti-D allowed to separate them. Maternal blood haematological and biochemical parameters were normal but HbF was 3.3% of total Hb concentration (normal < 1%). There were no mutations in the beta- and gamma-globin genes, but Xmn I polymorphism at -158 position in gamma-globin gene was detected in the homozygous state.

CONCLUSION

A very large population of HbF positive cells sometimes can be detect in a healthy woman. Implementation of the various procedures for FMH assessment is necessary in the such case, otherwise, the detection of fetal erythrocytes may not be possible or can give false results.

Systematic annotation of celiac disease loci refines pathological pathways and suggests a genetic explanation for increased interferon-gamma levels

Although genome-wide association studies and fine mapping have identified 39 non-HLA loci associated with celiac disease (CD), it is difficult to pinpoint the functional variants and susceptibility genes in these loci. We applied integrative approaches to annotate and prioritize functional single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), genes and pathways affected in CD. CD-associated SNPs were intersected with regulatory elements categorized by the ENCODE project to prioritize functional variants, while results from cis-expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) mapping in 1469 blood samples were combined with co-expression analyses to prioritize causative genes. To identify the key cell types involved in CD, we performed pathway analysis on RNA-sequencing data from different immune cell populations and on publicly available expression data on non-immune tissues. We discovered that CD SNPs are significantly enriched in B-cell-specific enhancer regions, suggesting that, besides T-cell processes, B-cell responses play a major role in CD. By combining eQTL and co-expression analyses, we prioritized 43 susceptibility genes in 36 loci. Pathway and tissue-specific expression analyses on these genes suggested enrichment of CD genes in the Th1, Th2 and Th17 pathways, but also predicted a role for four genes in the intestinal barrier function. We also discovered an intricate transcriptional connectivity between CD susceptibility genes and interferon-γ, a key effector in CD, despite the absence of CD-associated SNPs in the IFNG locus. Using systems biology, we prioritized the CD-associated functional SNPs and genes. By highlighting a role for B cells in CD, which classically has been described as a T-cell-driven disease, we offer new insights into the mechanisms and pathways underlying CD.

Heme oxygenase-1 is required for angiogenic function of bone marrow-derived progenitor cells: role in therapeutic revascularization

AIMS

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a cytoprotective enzyme that can be down-regulated in diabetes. Its importance for mature endothelium has been described, but its role in proangiogenic progenitors is not well known. We investigated the effect of HO-1 on the angiogenic potential of bone marrow-derived cells (BMDCs) and on blood flow recovery in ischemic muscle of diabetic mice.

RESULTS

Lack of HO-1 decreased the number of endothelial progenitor cells (Lin(-)CD45(-)cKit(-)Sca-1(+)VEGFR-2(+)) in murine bone marrow, and inhibited the angiogenic potential of cultured BMDCs, affecting their survival under oxidative stress, proliferation, migration, formation of capillaries, and paracrine proangiogenic potential. Transcriptome analysis of HO-1(-/-) BMDCs revealed the attenuated up-regulation of proangiogenic genes in response to hypoxia. Heterozygous HO-1(+/-) diabetic mice subjected to hind limb ischemia exhibited reduced local expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placental growth factor (PlGF), stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, and CXCR-4. This was accompanied by impaired revascularization of ischemic muscle, despite a strong mobilization of bone marrow-derived proangiogenic progenitors (Sca-1(+)CXCR-4(+)) into peripheral blood. Blood flow recovery could be rescued by local injections of conditioned media harvested from BMDCs, but not by an injection of cultured BMDCs.

INNOVATION

This is the first report showing that HO-1 haploinsufficiency impairs tissue revascularization in diabetes and that proangiogenic in situ response, not progenitor cell mobilization, is important for blood flow recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

HO-1 is necessary for a proper proangiogenic function of BMDCs. A low level of HO-1 in hyperglycemic mice decreases restoration of perfusion in ischemic muscle, which can be rescued by a local injection of conditioned media from cultured BMDCs.