Impaired innate and adaptive immune responses to BNT162b2 SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in systemic lupus erythematosus

Understanding the immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 vaccination is critical to optimizing vaccination strategies for individuals with autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Here, we comprehensively analyzed innate and adaptive immune responses in 19 patients with SLE receiving a complete 2-dose Pfizer-BioNTech mRNA vaccine (BNT162b2) regimen compared with a control cohort of 56 healthy control (HC) volunteers. Patients with SLE exhibited impaired neutralizing antibody production and antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses relative to HC. Interestingly, antibody responses were only altered in patients with SLE treated with immunosuppressive therapies, whereas impairment of antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cell numbers was independent of medication. Patients with SLE also displayed reduced levels of circulating CXC motif chemokine ligands, CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, and IFN-γ after secondary vaccination as well as downregulation of gene expression pathways indicative of compromised innate immune responses. Single-cell RNA-Seq analysis reveals that patients with SLE showed reduced levels of a vaccine-inducible monocyte population characterized by overexpression of IFN-response transcription factors. Thus, although 2 doses of BNT162b2 induced relatively robust immune responses in patients with SLE, our data demonstrate impairment of both innate and adaptive immune responses relative to HC, highlighting a need for population-specific vaccination studies.

Exploiting open source omics data to advance pancreas research

The "omics" revolution has transformed the biomedical research landscape by equipping scientists with the ability to interrogate complex biological phenomenon and disease processes at an unprecedented level. The volume of "big" data generated by the different omics studies such as genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics has led to the concurrent development of computational tools to enable in silico analysis and aid data deconvolution. Considering the intensive resources and high costs required to generate and analyze big data, there has been centralized, collaborative efforts to make the data and analysis tools freely available as "Open Source," to benefit the wider research community. Pancreatology research studies have contributed to this "big data rush" and have additionally benefitted from utilizing the open source data as evidenced by the increasing number of new research findings and publications that stem from such data. In this review, we briefly introduce the evolution of open source omics data, data types, the "FAIR" guiding principles for data management and reuse, and centralized platforms that enable free and fair data accessibility, availability, and provide tools for omics data analysis. We illustrate, through the case study of our own experience in mining pancreatitis omics data, the power of repurposing open source data to answer translationally relevant questions in pancreas research.

Rectal administration of tacrolimus protects against post-ERCP pancreatitis in mice

OBJECTIVE

There is an unmet clinical need for effective, targeted interventions to prevent post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). We previously demonstrated that the serine-threonine phosphatase, calcineurin (Cn) is a critical mediator of PEP and that the FDA-approved calcineurin inhibitors, tacrolimus (Tac) or cyclosporine A, prevented PEP. Our recent observations in preclinical PEP models demonstrating that Cn deletion in both pancreatic and hematopoietic compartments is required for maximal pancreas protection, highlighted the need to target both systemic and pancreas-specific Cn signaling. We hypothesized that rectal administration of Tac would effectively mitigate PEP by ensuring systemic and pancreatic bioavailability of Tac. We have tested the efficacy of rectal Tac in a preclinical PEP model and in cerulein-induced experimental pancreatitis.

METHODS

C57BL/6 mice underwent ductal cannulation with saline infusion to simulate pressure-induced PEP or were given seven, hourly, cerulein injections to induce pancreatitis. To test the efficacy of rectal Tac in pancreatitis prevention, a rectal Tac suppository (1 mg/kg) was administered 10 min prior to cannulation or first cerulein injection. Histological and biochemical indicators of pancreatitis were evaluated post-treatment. Pharmacokinetic parameters of Tac in the blood after rectal delivery compared to intravenous and intragastric administration was evaluated.

RESULTS

Rectal Tac was effective in reducing pancreatic injury and inflammation in both PEP and cerulein models. Pharmacokinetic studies revealed that the rectal administration of Tac helped achieve optimal blood levels of Tac over an extended time compared to intravenous or intragastric delivery.

CONCLUSION

Our results underscore the effectiveness and clinical utility of rectal Tac for PEP prophylaxis.

Preclinical safety evaluation of calcineurin inhibitors delivered through an intraductal route to prevent post-ERCP pancreatitis demonstrates endocrine and systemic safety

OBJECTIVE

There is an urgent need for safe and targeted interventions to mitigate post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). Calcineurin inhibitors (CnIs) offer therapeutic promise as calcineurin signaling within acinar cells is a key initiating event in PEP. In previous proof-of-concept studies using experimental models, we showed that concurrent intra-pancreatic ductal administration of the CnIs, tacrolimus (Tac) or cyclosporine A (CsA) with the ERCP radiocontrast agent (RC) prevented PEP. To translate this finding clinically, we investigated potential toxic effects of intraductal delivery of a single-dose RC-CnI formulation on endocrine pancreas function and systemic toxicities in a preclinical PEP model.

METHODS

C57BL/6J mice underwent ductal cannulation and received a single, intra-pancreatic ductal infusion of RC or RC with Tac or CsA (treatment groups) or underwent ductal cannulation without infusion ('sham' group). To assess endocrine function, intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test (IPGTT) was performed at two days before infusion and on day 2 and 14 post-surgery. To evaluate off-target tissue toxicities, renal and hepatic function-related parameters including blood urea nitrogen, plasma creatinine, potassium, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, and total bilirubin were measured at the same time-points as IPGTT. Histological and biochemical indicators of pancreas injury and inflammation were also evaluated.

RESULTS

No abnormalities in glucose metabolism, hepatic or renal function were observed on day 2 or 14 in mice administered with intraductal RC or RC with Tac or CsA.

CONCLUSION

Intraductal delivery of RC-CnI formulation was safe and well-tolerated with no significant acute or subacute endocrine or systemic toxicities, underscoring its clinical utility to prevent PEP.

Autoantibodies are highly prevalent in non-SARS-CoV-2 respiratory infections and critical illness

The widespread presence of autoantibodies in acute infection with SARS-CoV-2 is increasingly recognized, but the prevalence of autoantibodies in non-SARS-CoV-2 infections and critical illness has not yet been reported. We profiled IgG autoantibodies in 267 patients from 5 independent cohorts with non-SARS-CoV-2 viral, bacterial, and noninfectious critical illness. Serum samples were screened using Luminex arrays that included 58 cytokines and 55 autoantigens, many of which are associated with connective tissue diseases (CTDs). Samples positive for anti-cytokine antibodies were tested for receptor blocking activity using cell-based functional assays. Anti-cytokine antibodies were identified in > 50% of patients across all 5 acutely ill cohorts. In critically ill patients, anti-cytokine antibodies were far more common in infected versus uninfected patients. In cell-based functional assays, 11 of 39 samples positive for select anti-cytokine antibodies displayed receptor blocking activity against surface receptors for Type I IFN, GM-CSF, and IL-6. Autoantibodies against CTD-associated autoantigens were also commonly observed, including newly detected antibodies that emerged in longitudinal samples. These findings demonstrate that anti-cytokine and autoantibodies are common across different viral and nonviral infections and range in severity of illness.

Autoantibodies targeting cytokines and connective tissue disease autoantigens are common in acute non-SARS-CoV-2 infections

The widespread presence of autoantibodies in acute infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is increasingly recognized, but the prevalence of autoantibodies in infections with organisms other than SARS-CoV-2 has not yet been reported. We used protein arrays to profile IgG autoantibodies from 317 samples from 268 patients across a spectrum of non-SARS-CoV-2 infections, many of whom were critically ill with pneumonia. Anti-cytokine antibodies (ACA) were identified in > 50% of patients infected with non-SARS-CoV-2 viruses and other pathogens, including patients with pneumonia attributed to bacterial causes. In cell-based functional assays, some ACA blocked binding to surface receptors for type I interferons (Type I IFN), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Autoantibodies against traditional autoantigens associated with connective tissue diseases (CTDs) were also commonly observed in these cohorts, including newly-detected antibodies that emerged in longitudinal samples from patients infected with influenza. We conclude that autoantibodies, some of which are functionally active, may be much more prevalent than previously appreciated in patients who are symptomatically infected with diverse pathogens.

Thermal kinetic analysis of mustard biomass with equiatomic iron-nickel catalyst and its predictive modeling

Mustard waste briquettes are commercially used as a fuel for power production in boilers, whereas the thermal kinetics of the biomass plays a vital role in deciding the process parameters. The pyrolysis process converts biomass to value-added products such as biochar, bio-oil, and hydrocarbon gases based on the heating rates and temperature. To enhance the pyrolytic activity of mustard biomass, magnetically separable and reusable FeNi alloy catalyst is investigated. The thermo-conversion properties are studied under variable heating rates with 2 and 10% FeNi particles prepared through a facile chemical reduction technique. Thermal kinetics is computed using Flynn-Wall-Ozawa (FOW) and Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS) methods. The activation energies calculated using FOW and KAS methods increase with FeNi addition in mustard while the calorific value decreases. The FeNi alloy particles with the spike-like morphology provide better metal-biomass binding resulting in higher activation energy and facilitates the easy decomposition of lignin. The 10% FeNi -mustard shows uniform conversion independent of heating rates, suitable for magnetically recoverable catalytic pyrolysis. Response surface methodology analysis predicts optimum conversion for 10% FeNi added mustard and less significance for the heating rates in concurrence with the experiments. Artificial neural network utilized to predict and validate mass loss for mustard biomass exhibits best fit for the three neural hidden layer and one output layered topology.

Novel Circulating and Tissue Monocytes as Well as Macrophages in Pancreatitis and Recovery

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is an inflammatory disease with mild to severe course that is associated with local and systemic complications and significant mortality. Uncovering inflammatory pathways that lead to progression and recovery will inform ways to monitor and/or develop effective therapies.

METHODS

We performed single-cell mass Cytometry by Time Of Flight (CyTOF) analysis to identify pancreatic and systemic inflammatory signals during mild AP (referred to as AP), severe AP (SAP), and recovery using 2 independent experimental models and blood from patients with AP and recurrent AP. Flow cytometric validation of monocytes subsets identified using CyTOF analysis was performed independently.

RESULTS

Ly6C+ inflammatory monocytes were the most altered cells in the pancreas during experimental AP, recovery, and SAP. Deep profiling uncovered heterogeneity among pancreatic and blood monocytes and identified 7 novel subsets during AP and recovery, and 6 monocyte subsets during SAP. Notably, a dynamic shift in pancreatic CD206+ macrophage population was observed during AP and recovery. Deeper profiling of the CD206+ macrophage identified 7 novel subsets during AP, recovery, and SAP. Differential expression analysis of these novel monocyte and CD206+ macrophage subsets revealed significantly altered surface (CD44, CD54, CD115, CD140a, CD196, podoplanin) and functional markers (interferon-γ, interleukin 4, interleukin 22, latency associated peptide-transforming growth factor-β, tumor necrosis factor-α, T-bet, RoRγt) that were associated with recovery and SAP. Moreover, a targeted functional analysis further revealed distinct expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines by pancreatic CD206+ macrophage subsets as the disease either progressed or resolved. Similarly, we identified heterogeneity among circulating classical inflammatory monocytes (CD14+CD16-) and novel subsets in patients with AP and recurrent AP.

CONCLUSIONS

We identified several novel monocyte/macrophage subsets with unique phenotype and functional characteristics that are associated with AP, recovery, and SAP. Our findings highlight differential innate immune responses during AP progression and recovery that can be leveraged for future disease monitoring and targeting.

The aryl hydrocarbon receptor regulates expression of mucosal trafficking receptor GPR15

GPR15 is a chemoattractant receptor that facilitates colon homing of regulatory and effector CD4+ T cells in health and colitis. The molecular mechanisms that control GPR15 expression are not fully known. Here we report the presence of two highly conserved aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) binding sequences in a 3' enhancer of GPR15, leading us to investigate AHR function in regulating GPR15 expression. Using luciferase reporter assays, we show that AHR activation increased GPR15 expression and requires both the AHR binding sites. Consistent with a transcriptional regulatory role, treatment with AHR agonists induce GPR15 expression on human CD4+ T cells. Using AHR-deficient mice, we demonstrate that the lack of AHR signaling drastically reduces GPR15 expression on effector/memory and Foxp3+ CD4+ T cells. In mixed bone marrow chimeras of AHR-deficient and wildtype cells, GPR15 expression was similarly diminished on AHR-deficient CD4+ effector/memory and regulatory T cells in the colon and small intestine. Furthermore, administration of AHR agonists upregulated GPR15 expression on CD4+ effector/memory T cells and increased their homing capability, especially to the colon. Collectively, our studies reveal a novel function of the AHR in regulation of GPR15 expression and increased colon trafficking of CD4+ T cells expressing GPR15.

The prevalence and risk factors for cataract in rural and urban India

Purpose:

To report the prevalence and risk factors of cataract and its subtypes in older age group.

Methods:

A total of 6617 subjects were recruited from both rural and urban areas. A detailed history including data on demographic, socioeconomic and ocular history was obtained. Lens opacity was graded according to the Lens Opacity Classification System III (LOCS III).

Results:

Cataract was present in 1094 of the rural and 649 subjects in the urban population. Monotype subtype cataracts were found in 32% and 25% in rural and urban population and 12.68% and 18.6% were mixed cataracts in the rural and urban groups. In baseline characteristics history of diabetes, alcohol intake and presence of age-related macular degeneration were the risk factors in urban group. On multivariate analysis, the only significant risk factors for any cataract in subjects ≥60 years were increasing age in both rural [odds ratio (OR), 1.07] and urban (OR, 1.08) population, and HbA1c (OR, 1.14) in rural population. Overweight (OR, 0.6) was found to be a protective factor, and lower social economic status (OR, 1.52) a risk factor for cataract in urban population. A significant urban–rural difference was found in the prevalence of cataract and its subtypes (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion:

We found the risk factors for any cataract in older age group to be increasing age and HbA1c in rural group. Age and lower social economic status were found to be the risk factors in urban arm. A statistically significant difference was found on comparison of the prevalence of cataract and its subtypes between the rural and urban population.

Association of obesity and age-related macular degeneration in Indian population

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to establish the prevalence and association of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and obesity which was not studied extensively in Indian population over 60 years of age.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, population-based study. A total of 4791 patients with gradable fundus photography were included. All patients underwent detailed ophthalmic examination and AMD was graded with retinal photographs. Grading of AMD was done according to the International ARM Epidemiological Study Group and staged based on grading in worse eye. The association of AMD severity and obesity (based on body mass index, waist–hip ratio, waist circumference, isolated abdominal obesity, isolated generalized obesity, and combined obesity) was assessed. The main outcome variable was an association between the presence and severity of AMD with different grades of obesity.

Results:

No direct significant association was noted between the presence and severity of AMD and any obesity indices. Subgroup analyses based on lifestyle patterns and common systemic pathologies in AMD population were done. Late AMD was significantly associated with tobacco consumption in population with combined obesity (P = 0.033 and odds ratio = 2.998).

Conclusion:

No direct association was noted between the presence or severity of AMD and obesity in South Indian population. However, indirect associations between the severity of AMD and combined obesity were found.

Pupillary Abnormalities with Varying Severity of Diabetic Retinopathy

Our aim is to study the dynamics of pupillary abnormalities in varying severity of diabetic retinopathy. A non-interventional case-control study with 405 eyes of 244 subjects with diabetes, and 41 eyes of 26 subjects with no history of diabetes was done. Diabetes group was classified according to retinopathy severity: no retinopathy, mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), moderate NPDR, severe NPDR and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR). After dark adaptation, pupil size and flashlight response were captured with an infrared camera. Baseline Pupil Diameter (BPD), Amplitude of Pupillary Constriction (APC), Velocity of Pupillary Constriction (VPC) and Velocity of Pupillary Dilatation (VPD). Compared to controls, mean BPD decreased with increasing severity of diabetic retinopathy. Mean APC in control group was 1.73 ± 0.37 mm and reduced in mild NPDR (1.57 ± 0.39, p = 1.000), moderate NPDR (1.51 ± 0.44, p = 0.152) and found to be significant reduced in severe NPDR (1.43 ± 0.48, p = 0.001) and PDR (1.29 ± 0.43, p = 0.008). Compared to controls, mean VPC decreased progressively with increasing severity of retinopathy, with a maximal difference in the PDR group. Mean VPD as compared to the control group was significantly reduced in the no DR (p = 0.03), mild NPDR (p = 0.038), moderate NPDR (p = 0.05), PDR group (p = 0.02). We found pupillary dynamics are abnormal in early stages of diabetic retinopathy and progress with increasing retinopathy severity.

Incidence, Progression, and Risk Factors for Cataract in Type 2 Diabetes

Purpose

We report the 4-year incidence, progression, and risk factors of cataract subtypes in type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A total of 779 subjects completed baseline and 4-year follow-up.

Results

The incidences of nuclear opalescence (NO), nuclear color (NC), cortical cataract (CC), and posterior subcapsular cataract (PSC) were 70%, 55.2%, 25.7%, and 7.3%, respectively. One-step progressions of NO, NC, CC, and PSC were 14.3%, 16.1%, 8.8%, and 8.1%, respectively, and two-step or more progressions were 5.0%, 6.0%, 0.8%, and 6.0%, respectively. Incident NO was seen in patients 50 to 59 (odds ratio [OR] = 3.3), NC in those 50 to 59 (OR = 2.7) and 60 to 69 (OR = 3.9), and CC in those 60 to 69 (OR = 3.3) years old. A lower hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c; OR = 0.7), longer diabetes duration (OR = 1.1), and hyperopia (OR = 4.0) were associated with incident PSC. Women (OR = 1.7) and patients with higher total cholesterol (OR = 1.3) at baseline showed one-step NO progression. Patients 60 to 69 (OR = 2.8) and ≥70 (OR = 3.8) years old showed one-step NC progression, while those 60 to 69 years old showed one-step CC progression (OR = 6.3). A lower HbA1c (OR = 0.3) was associated with one-step PSC progression. A higher low-density lipoprotein (OR = 1.6) was associated with two-step or more NO progression. Patients 60 to 69 years old (OR = 6.7) had a greater risk, while those with hyperopia at baseline (OR = 0.2) had lower risk of two-step or more NC progression. Patients 40 to 49 years old constituted the reference group for all.

Conclusions

The 4-year cumulative incidence of cataract is higher than that of progression. Greater age is a risk factor for incidence and progression of most types of cataract.

Influence of serum lipids on the incidence and progression of diabetic retinopathy and macular oedema: Sankara Nethralaya Diabetic Retinopathy Epidemiology And Molecular genetics Study-II

IMPORTANCE

The importance of lipids on incidence and progression of diabetic retinopathy has not been studied in the Indian population.

BACKGROUND

To elucidate the influence of serum lipid control on the incidence and progression of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic macular oedema in subjects with type 2 diabetes.

DESIGN

Population-based longitudinal observational study in a hospital setting.

PARTICIPANTS

Eight hundred ninety subjects were examined at baseline and follow-up.

METHODS

Diabetic retinopathy was graded per Modified Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study scales; 45°, 4-field dilated stereoscopic digital photography was performed with an additional 30°, 7-field for those who had retinopathy. Macular oedema was evaluated per Proposed International Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy and Diabetic Macular Oedema Disease Severity Scales.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Association of serum lipids and incidence and progression of diabetic retinopathy.

RESULTS

Poor control of total cholesterol was associated with the incidence of sight-threatening retinopathy (odds ratio = 7.2 [95% confidence interval: 1.5-34.3], P = 0.012) and macular oedema (odds ratio = 5.5 [95% confidence interval: 1.4-27.4], P = 0.037) after adjusting for potential confounders. Poor control of triglycerides was associated with progression to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (odds ratio = 3.2 [95% confidence interval: 1.1-10.5], P = 0.048). Risk for incident macular oedema (P = 0.041) and progression to proliferative diabetic retinopathy (P = 0.028) was greater when all lipid types were abnormal.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Poor control of lipids is a risk factor for incidence of and progression to late stages of retinopathy. Abnormal levels of all lipid types are associated with risk of incident macular oedema and progression to proliferative diabetic retinopathy.

BECN1/Beclin 1 sorts cell-surface APP/amyloid β precursor protein for lysosomal degradation

The regulation of plasma membrane (PM)-localized transmembrane protein/receptor trafficking has critical implications for cell signaling, metabolism and survival. In this study, we investigated the role of BECN1 (Beclin 1) in the degradative trafficking of PM-associated APP (amyloid β precursor protein), whose metabolism to amyloid-β, an essential event in Alzheimer disease, is dependent on divergent PM trafficking pathways. We report a novel interaction between PM-associated APP and BECN1 that recruits macroautophagy/endosomal regulatory proteins PIK3C3 and UVRAG. We found that BECN1 promotes surface APP internalization and sorting predominantly to endosomes and endolysosomes. BECN1 also promotes the targeting of a smaller fraction of internalized APP to LC3-positive phagophores, suggesting a role for BECN1-dependent PM macroautophagy in APP degradation. Furthermore, BECN1 facilitates lysosomal degradation of surface APP and reduces the secretion of APP metabolites (soluble ectodomains, sAPP). The association between APP and BECN1 is dependent on the evolutionarily conserved domain (ECD) of BECN1 (amino acids 267-337). Deletion of a BECN1 ECD subregion (amino acids 285-299) did not impair BECN1- PIK3C3 interaction, PtdIns3K function or macroautophagy, but was sufficient to impair the APP-BECN1 interaction and BECN1's effects on surface APP internalization and degradation, resulting in increased secretion of sAPPs. Interestingly, both the BECN1-APP association and BECN1-dependent APP endocytosis and degradative trafficking were negatively regulated by active AKT. Our results further implicate phosphorylation of the BECN1 Ser295 residue in the inhibition of APP degradation by AKT. Our studies reveal a novel function for BECN1 in the sorting of a plasma membrane protein for endolysosomal and macroautophagic degradation.

GA binding protein augments autophagy via transcriptional activation of BECN1-PIK3C3 complex genes

Macroautophagy is a vesicular catabolic trafficking pathway that is thought to protect cells from diverse stressors and to promote longevity. Recent studies have revealed that transcription factors play important roles in the regulation of autophagy. In this study, we have identified GA binding protein (GABP) as a transcriptional regulator of the combinatorial expression of BECN1-PIK3C3 complex genes involved in autophagosome initiation. We performed bioinformatics analyses that demonstrated highly conserved putative GABP sites in genes that encode BECN1/Beclin 1, several BECN1 interacting proteins, and downstream autophagy proteins including the ATG12-ATG5-ATG16L1 complex. We demonstrate that GABP binds to the promoter regions of BECN1-PIK3C3 complex genes and activates their transcriptional activities. Knockdown of GABP reduced BECN1-PIK3C3 complex transcripts, BECN1-PIK3C3 complex protein levels and autophagy in cultured cells. Conversely, overexpression of GABP increased autophagy. Nutrient starvation increased GABP-dependent transcriptional activity of BECN1-PIK3C3 complex gene promoters and increased the recruitment of GABP to the BECN1 promoter. Our data reveal a novel function of GABP in the regulation of autophagy via transcriptional activation of the BECN1-PIK3C3 complex.

Rack1 promotes epithelial cell-cell adhesion by regulating E-cadherin endocytosis

E-cadherin and its cytoplasmic partners, catenins, mediate epithelial cell-cell adhesion. Disruption of this adhesion allows cancer cells to invade and metastasize. Aberrant activation of the Src tyrosine kinase disrupts cell-cell contacts through an E-cadherin/catenin-dependent mechanism. Previously we showed that Rack1 regulates the growth of colon cells by suppressing Src activity at G(1) and mitotic checkpoints, and in the intrinsic apoptotic and Akt cell survival pathways. Here we show that Rack1, partly by inhibiting Src, promotes cell-cell adhesion and reduces the invasive potential of colon cancer cells. Rack1 stabilizes E-cadherin and catenins at cell-cell contacts by inhibiting the Src phosphorylation of E-cadherin, the ubiquitination of E-cadherin by the E3 ligase Hakai and the endocytosis of E-cadherin. Upon depletion and restoration of extracellular calcium, Rack1 facilitates the re-assembly of E-cadherin-containing cell-cell contacts. Rack1 also blocks HGF-induced endocytosis of E-cadherin, disruption of cell-cell contacts and cell scatter. Our results uncover a novel function of Rack1 in maintaining the junctional homeostasis of intestinal epithelial cells by regulation of the Src- and growth factor-induced endocytosis of E-cadherin.

Prolactin inhibits activity of pyruvate kinase M2 to stimulate cell proliferation

Mitogenic and prosurvival effects underlie the tumorigenic roles of prolactin (PRL) in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. PRL signaling is mediated through its receptor (PRLr). A proteomics screen identified the pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), a glycolytic enzyme known to play an important role in tumorigenesis, as a protein that constitutively interacts with PRLr. Treatment of cells with PRL inhibited pyruvate kinase activity and increased the lactate content in human cells in a manner that was dependent on the abundance of PRLr, activation of Janus kinase 2, and tyrosine phosphorylation of the intracellular domain of PRLr. Knockdown of PKM2 attenuated PRL-stimulated cell proliferation. The extent of this proliferation was rescued by the knock-in of the wild-type PKM2 but not of its mutant insensitive to PRL-mediated inhibition. We discuss a hypothesis that the inhibition of PKM2 by PRL contributes to the PRL-stimulated cell proliferation.

In situ biodecolorization kinetics of Acid Red 66 in aqueous solutions by Trametes versicolor

The biological decolorization methodology and the mechanism involved in the degradation of Acid Red 66 was chosen as a model of azo dye using the white rot fungi Trametes versicolor was studied. Biodecolorization of Acid Red 66 using white rot fungi T. versicolor was demonstrated by the decolorization of the culture medium, the extent of which was determined by monitoring the decrease in absorbance at 506 nm. The biodecolorization kinetics of Acid Red 66 (100 ppm) was found to be first order and the degradation rate coefficient is 1.312 x 10(-2)min(-1) (R=0.96683, n=8) at 30 degrees C. The effects of independent variables such as carbon sources, nitrogen sources pH, and temperature on the biodecolorization of Acid Red 66 was also investigated.

Ultrasound assisted enhancement in natural dye extraction from beetroot for industrial applications and natural dyeing of leather

There is a growing demand for eco-friendly/non-toxic colorants, specifically for health sensitive applications such as coloration of food and dyeing of child textile/leather garments. Recently, dyes derived from natural sources for these applications have emerged as an important alternative to potentially harmful synthetic dyes and pose need for suitable effective extraction methodologies. The present paper focus on the influence of process parameters for ultrasound assisted leaching of coloring matter from plant materials. In the present work, extraction of natural dye from beetroot using ultrasound has been studied and compared with static/magnetic stirring as a control process at 45 degrees C. The influence of process parameters on the extraction efficiency such as ultrasonic output power, time, pulse mode, effect of solvent system and amount of beetroot has been studied. The use of ultrasound is found to have significant improvement in the extraction efficiency of colorant obtained from beetroot. Based on the experiments it has been found that a mixture of 1:1 ethanol-water with 80W ultrasonic power for 3h contact time provided better yield and extraction efficiency. Pulse mode operation may be useful in reducing electrical energy consumption in the extraction process. The effect of the amount of beetroot used in relation to extraction efficiency has also been studied. Two-stage extraction has been studied and found to be beneficial for improving the yield for higher amounts of beetroot. Significant 8% enhancement in % yield of colorant has been achieved with ultrasound, 80W as compared to MS process both using 1:1 ethanol-water. The coloring ability of extracted beet dye has been tested on substrates such as leather and paper and found to be suitable for dyeing. Ultrasound is also found to be beneficial in natural dyeing of leather with improved rate of exhaustion. Both the dyed substrates have better color values for ultrasonic beet extract as inferred from reflectance measurement. Therefore, the present study clearly offers efficient extraction methodology from natural dye resources such as beetroot with ultrasound even dispensing with external heating. Thereby, also making eco-friendly non-toxic dyeing of fibrous substances a potential viable option.

Performance of inverse anaerobic fluidized bed reactor for treating high strength organic wastewater during start-up phase

The aim of this work is to report on the physical characteristics of carrier material (perlite), biomass growth on the carrier material and the biogas production during an apparent steady state period in an inverse anaerobic fluidized bed reactor (IAFBR) for treating high strength organic wastewater. Before starting up the reactor, physical properties of the carrier material were determined. One millimeter diameter perlite particle is found to have a wet specific density of 295 kg/m(3) with specific surface area of 7.010 m(2)/g. This material has provided a good surface for biomass attachment and development. The biofilm concentration (in terms of attached volatile solids (AVS)) attached to carrier material was found to be 0.66 g(AVS)/g(solid). Most particles have been covered with a thin biofilm of uniform thickness. Once the inverse anaerobic fluidized bed system reached the steady state, the organic load was increased step wise by reducing hydraulic retention time (HRT) from 2 days to 0.16 day, while maintaining the constant feed of chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration. This system has achieved 84% COD removal and reached the biogas production of 13.22 l/l/d at an organic loading rate (OLR) of 35 kgCOD/m(3)/d.

Evaluation of inverse anaerobic fluidized bed reactor for treating high strength organic wastewater

The aim of this work is to evaluate the feasibility of an inverse fluidized bed reactor for the anaerobic digestion of distillery effluent, with a carrier material that allows low energy requirements for fluidization, providing also a good surface for biomass attachment and development. Inverse fluidization particles having specific gravity less than one are carried out in the reactor. The carrier particles chosen for this study was perlite having specific surface area of 7.010 m2/g and low energy requirements for fluidization. Before starting up the reactor, physical properties of the carrier material were determined. One millimeter diameter perlite particle is found to have a wet specific density of 295 kg/m3. It was used for the treatment of distillery waste and performance studies were carried out for 65 days. Once the down flow anaerobic fluidized bed system reached the steady state, the organic load was increased step wise by reducing hydraulic retention time (HRT) from 2 days to 0.19 day, while maintaining the constant feed of chemical oxygen demand (COD) concentration. Most particles have been covered with a thin biofilm of uniform thickness. This system achieved 84% COD removal at an organic loading rate (OLR) of 35 kg COD/m3/d.

Effluent treatment process in molasses-based distillery industries: a review

Distillery effluent is a contaminated stream with high chemical oxygen demand (COD) varying from 45,000 to 75,000 mg/l and low pH values of between 4.3 and 5.3. Different processes covering aerobic, anaerobic as well as physico-chemical methods which have been employed to this effluent has been given in this review paper. Among the different methods available, it was found that "An Inverse Anaerobic Fluidization" to be a better choice for treating effluent from molasses-based distillery industries using an inverse anaerobic fluidized-bed reactor (IAFBR). This technology has been widely applied as an effective step in removing 80-85% of the COD in the effluent stream. Therefore, in this review, attention has been paid to highlight in respect of fluidization phenomena, process performance, stability of the system, operating parameters, configuration of inverse anaerobic fluidization and suitable carrier material employed in an inverse anaerobic fluidized-bed reactor especially for treating this effluent.

Regulation of prolactin receptor levels and activity in breast cancer

From its traditional identity as a hormone involved in growth and differentiation of mammary epithelium and in lactation, to having a pertinent role in the development of mammary carcinoma, the peptide hormone/cytokine prolactin (PRL) has emerged as a versatile signaling molecule. There has been significant progress in our understanding of the fine working of PRL in the past several years. Notably, much effort has been concentrated on the mediator of PRL action, namely, the prolactin receptor (PRLr). The causal link between increased PRLr expression and breast cancer is being increasingly appreciated. Considering that the level of the receptor on the surface is a critical determinant of signaling output in response to PRL, the uncovering of regulatory elements that control receptor expression becomes important. The principle focus of this review is on the regulation of PRLr expression and activity in breast cancer with a brief overview of different isoforms of PRLr, their expression, signaling capabilities and the biological outcomes of PRL/PRLr signaling.

Prolactin stimulates ubiquitination, initial internalization, and degradation of its receptor via catalytic activation of Janus kinase 2

Prolactin (PRL) activates its receptor to initiate signal transduction pathways (including activation of Janus kinases, Jak) but also stimulates downregulation of this receptor to limit the magnitude and duration of signaling. Degradation of the long form of PRL receptor (PRLr) depends on its phosphorylation on Ser349 that is required to facilitate PRLr ubiquitination. Signaling events that mediate PRL-induced degradation of PRLr remain to be elucidated. Here, we investigated the role of Jak2 activity in ligand-triggered increase of PRLr phosphorylation on Ser349, PRLr ubiquitination, endocytosis, and degradation. Using Jak2 reconstitution in Jak2-null cells as well as pharmacologic approaches, we found that treatment with PRL (but not with PRLr antagonist) promotes phosphorylation of PRLr on Ser349 and accelerates endocytosis of PRLr. Furthermore, PRL-stimulated PRLr phosphorylation, endocytosis, and degradation in Jak2-null cells reconstituted with wild type but not with catalytically inactive Jak2. We discuss how Jak2-mediated signaling might be transduced into Ser349 phosphorylation of PRLr as well as its ubiquitination and endocytosis.

Site-specific ubiquitination exposes a linear motif to promote interferon-alpha receptor endocytosis

Ligand-induced endocytosis and lysosomal degradation of cognate receptors regulate the extent of cell signaling. Along with linear endocytic motifs that recruit the adaptin protein complex 2 (AP2)–clathrin molecules, monoubiquitination of receptors has emerged as a major endocytic signal. By investigating ubiquitin-dependent lysosomal degradation of the interferon (IFN)-α/β receptor 1 (IFNAR1) subunit of the type I IFN receptor, we reveal that IFNAR1 is polyubiquitinated via both Lys48- and Lys63-linked chains. The SCF^βTrcp (Skp1–Cullin1–F-box complex) E3 ubiquitin ligase that mediates IFNAR1 ubiquitination and degradation in cells can conjugate both types of chains in vitro. Although either polyubiquitin linkage suffices for postinternalization sorting, both types of chains are necessary but not sufficient for robust IFNAR1 turnover and internalization. These processes also depend on the proximity of ubiquitin-acceptor lysines to a linear endocytic motif and on its integrity. Furthermore, ubiquitination of IFNAR1 promotes its interaction with the AP2 adaptin complex that is required for the robust internalization of IFNAR1, implicating cooperation between site-specific ubiquitination and the linear endocytic motif in regulating this process.

c-Cbl-facilitated cytoskeletal effects in v-Abl-transformed fibroblasts are regulated by membrane association of c-Cbl

The multi-functional protein c-Cbl is an important modulator of actin cytoskeletal dynamics in diverse biological systems. We had previously reported that c-Cbl facilitates cell spreading and adhesion and suppresses anchorage-independent growth of v-Abl-transformed fibroblasts. To assess the importance of membrane localization of c-Cbl for the observed effects of c-Cbl in v-Abl-3T3 cells, we first mapped the membrane interactive domain(s) of c-Cbl. Our studies indicate that localization of c-Cbl to the membrane is likely to be mediated by the tyrosine kinase binding (TKB) domain and the proline-rich region of c-Cbl, whereas C-terminal tyrosine phosphorylation does not play a role. The association of v-Cbl, which encompasses the TKB domain, with the membrane was unusual as it was not entirely dependent on SH2-phosphotyrosine interactions. Our studies further demonstrate that Src-like adaptor protein (SLAP), which binds to v-Cbl in a tyrosine phosphorylation-independent manner, facilitates membrane association of Cbl. The interaction between c-Cbl and SLAP in v-Abl-3T3 cells positively influenced c-Cbl-mediated spreading and adhesion of these cells. SLAP appears to exert its effects not simply by increasing the amount of c-Cbl in the membrane but by facilitating binding of p85-phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) with membrane-associated c-Cbl.

Decolorization of textile dye effluent by genetically improved bacterial strains

Synthetic dyes are released into the environment from textile industrial effluents. The discharge of this colored wastewater into rivers and lakes leads to a reduction in sunlight penetration in natural water bodies, which, in turn, decreases both photosynthetic activity and dissolved oxygen concentration and is toxic to living beings. Bacterial isolates are optimized for growth and biomass production before using them for decolorizing dye effluent. The bacterial isolates Bacillus sp. 1 and Bacillus sp. 2 were employed at different percentages by volume with standard nutrient concentration. Of these bacterial isolates Bacillus sp. 2 recorded maximum color reduction. The pH and electrical conductivity (EC) were reduced in the decolorized effluent, and a reduction in biologic oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids, and total dissolved solids (TDS) were also observed.

The Cbl family proteins: ring leaders in regulation of cell signaling

The proto-oncogenic protein c-Cbl was discovered as the cellular form of v-Cbl, a retroviral transforming protein. This was followed over the years by important discoveries, which identified c-Cbl and other Cbl-family proteins as key players in several signaling pathways. c-Cbl has donned the role of a multivalent adaptor protein, capable of interacting with a plethora of proteins, and has been shown to positively influence certain biological processes. The identity of c-Cbl as an E3 ubiquitin ligase unveiled the existence of an important negative regulatory pathway involved in maintaining homeostasis in protein tyrosine kinase (PTK) signaling. Recent years have also seen the emergence of novel regulators of Cbl, which have provided further insights into the complexity of Cbl-influenced pathways. This review will endeavor to provide a summary of current studies focused on the effects of Cbl proteins on various biological processes and the mechanism of these effects. The major sections of the review are as follows: Structure and genomic organization of Cbl proteins; Phosphorylation of Cbl; Interactions of Cbl; Localization of Cbl; Mechanism of effects of Cbl: (a) Ubiquitylation-dependent events: This section elucidates the mechanism of Cbl-mediated downregulation of EGFR and details the PTK and non-PTKs targeted by Cbl. In addition, it addresses the functional requirements for E3 Ubiquitin ligase activity of Cbl and negative regulation of Cbl-mediated downregulation of PTKs, (b) Adaptor functions: This section discusses the mechanisms of adaptor functions of Cbl in mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activation, insulin signaling, regulation of Ras-related protein 1 (Rap1), PI-3' kinase signaling, and regulation of Rho-family GTPases and cytoskeleton; Biological functions: This section gives an account of the diverse biological functions of Cbl and includes the role of Cbl in transformation, T-cell signaling and thymus development, B-cell signaling, mast-cell degranulation, macrophage functions, bone development, neurite growth, platelet activation, muscle degeneration, and bacterial invasion; Conclusions and perspectives.

Studies on the influence of power ultrasound on dye penetration in leather dyeing using photomicrographic analysis

The use of power ultrasound in enhancing diffusion rate in various chemical as well as physical processes is gaining in importance. The influence of power ultrasound in the leather dyeing process on enhancing the penetration of dye through the leather matrix was studied. The penetration of dye through a leather cross-section for a given time in the presence and absence of an ultrasonic field (33 kHz, 150 W) was studied by photomicrographic analysis using a stereomicroscope. Different types of black dyes, such as Acid black 1, Metal complex black 194 and Direct black 155, were used for dyeing leather in the present study. Photomicrographic analysis of a cross-section of dyed leather indicated better penetration of dyes through the leather matrix with the use of ultrasound than without it. Therefore, the results indicate that ultrasound helps to improve the diffusion of dye and to reduce diffusional resistance in the leather dyeing process.

TULA: an SH3- and UBA-containing protein that binds to c-Cbl and ubiquitin

Downregulation of protein tyrosine kinases is a major function of the multidomain protein c-Cbl. This effect of c-Cbl is critical for both negative regulation of normal physiological stimuli and suppression of cellular transformation. In spite of the apparent importance of these effects of c-Cbl, their own regulation is poorly understood. To search for possible novel regulators of c-Cbl, we purified a number of c-Cbl-associated proteins by affinity chromatography and identified them by mass spectrometry. Among them, we identified the UBA- and SH3-containing protein T-cell Ubiquitin LigAnd (TULA), which can also bind to ubiquitin. Functional studies in a model system based on co-expression of TULA, c-Cbl, and EGF receptor in 293T cells demonstrate that TULA is capable of inhibiting c-Cbl-mediated downregulation of EGF receptor. Furthermore, modulation of TULA concentration in Jurkat T-lymphoblastoid cells demonstrates that TULA upregulates the activity of both Zap kinase and NF-AT transcription factor. Therefore, our study indicates that TULA counters the inhibitory effect of c-Cbl on protein tyrosine kinases and, thus, may be involved in the regulation of biological effects of c-Cbl. Finally, our results suggest that TULA-mediated inhibition of the effects of c-Cbl on protein tyrosine kinases is caused by TULA-induced ubiquitylation and degradation of c-Cbl.

Beyond the RING: CBL proteins as multivalent adapters

Following discovery of c-Cbl, a cellular form of the transforming retroviral protein v-Cbl, multiple Cbl-related proteins have been identified in vertebrate and invertebrate organisms. c-Cbl and its homologues are capable of interacting with numerous proteins involved in cell signaling, including various molecular adapters and protein tyrosine kinases. It appears that Cbl proteins play several functional roles, acting both as multivalent adapters and inhibitors of various protein tyrosine kinases. The latter function is linked, to a substantial extent, to the E3 ubiquitin-ligase activity of Cbl proteins. Experimental evidence for these functions, interrelations between them, and their biological significance are addressed in this review, with the main accent placed on the adapter functions of Cbl proteins.

In vitro experiments with Centella asiatica: investigation to elucidate the effect of an indigenously prepared powder of this plant on the acid-fastness and viability of M. tuberculosis

The herb Centella asiatica (Linn.), found throughout India, is acclaimed to have medicinal properties and has been used in leprosy patients from very early times. It is considered that the active compound of this herb, called asiaticoside, probably acts on the waxy covering of M. leprae. The in vitro effect of an indigenously produced dry powder of Centella asiatica (CA) on the acid-fastness and viability of M. tuberculosis was investigated in the present study. The results indicate that CA may not have any direct action on the acid-fastness or viability of M.tuberculosis H37Rv in vitro. Further studies using purified asiaticoside of the plant or in vivo studies are required.