Chebulinic Acid: An Incipient Anticancer Agent

BACKGROUND

Terminalia chebula (T. chebula) comprising chebulinic acid as its principle active constituent is used to cure various diseases. T. chebula and chebulinic acid are used as antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antimutagenic, radioprotective, cardioprotective, antiproliferative, antiarthritic, anticaries, and so on.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this current study is to give an overview of the recent literature and patents of T. chebula and chebulinic acid including methods of its isolation/extraction and their application in the prevention of various cancers and other diseases.

METHODS

Present research and patents highlighting the anti-cancer potential of T. chebula and chebulinic acid have been studied and discussed keeping in view the scientific novelty and impact.

RESULTS

Both T. chebula and chebulinic acid are currently being explored for their anticancer potential in vitro and in vivo. They are either incorporated alone or in combination with other plants or drugs to show their activity and many clinical trials are also going on various potentials of the plant and chebulinic acid. Novel extraction techniques are also explored and patented. Efforts are being made to improve the bioavailability by developing Novel herbal drug delivery systems of the plant extract or chebulinic acid itself.

CONCLUSION

Anti-cancer potential of T. chebula and chebulinic acid may be well established by promising clinical trials and may open new interventions in various tumors. Clinical trials in conjunction with standard therapies are required to explore and validate the actual potential of T. chebula and chebulinic acid respectively.

Effect of microwave drying of paddy on milling characteristics, cooking quality, and microstructure of rice

Effect of microwave drying on milling, cooking, and microstructure characteristic of paddy rice in comparison to hot air drying was assessed in the present study. Results revealed that modified microwave drying significantly (P < 0.05) affected the milling quality of paddy. Raw paddy had head rice recovery of 49.63%, while after microwave drying, the head rice recovery increased by 6.73% in comparison to hot air drying. Microwave drying brought significant changes in the colour characteristic of rice as it had total colour change of 13.50 in comparison to 10.93 by hot air drying. Cooking time and water uptake ratio after microwave drying increased to 31.46 min and 3.16%, in comparison to 27.05 min and 2.65% for hot air dried samples, respectively. Scanning Electron Microscope images revealed that both hot air and microwave dried rice had a coarse surface and large starch particles, while starch structure was more damaged in hot air drying, however, agglomeration of protein-starch matrix was more uniform in microwave dried samples due to modification of the microwave applicator that prevented thermal decomposition. It was recommended that paddy may be dried using a modified microwave applicator with a shorter duration and a better quality.

Effect of combustion particle morphology on biological responses in a Co-culture of human lung and macrophage cells

Atmospheric aging of combustion particles alters their chemical composition and morphology. Previous studies have reported differences in toxicological responses after exposure to fresh versus aged particles, with chemical composition being the prime suspect behind the differences. However, less is known about the contribution of morphological differences in atmospherically aged particles to toxicological responses, possibly due to the difficulty in resolving the two properties (composition and morphology) that change simultaneously. This study altered the shape of lab-generated combustion particles, without affecting the chemical composition, from fractal-like to a more compact spherical shape, using a water condensation-evaporation method. The two shapes were exposed to a co-culture of human airway epithelial (A549) and differentiated human monocyte (THP-1) cells at air-liquid interface (ALI) conditions. The particles with different shapes were deposited using an electrostatic field-based ALI chamber. For the same mass dose, both shapes were internalized by cells, induced a pro-inflammatory response (IL-8 and TNFα), and enhanced CYP1A1 gene expression compared to air controls. The more compact spherical particles (representative of atmospherically aged particles) induced more early apoptosis and release of TNFα compared to the more fractal-like particles. These results suggest a contribution of morphology to the increased toxicity of aged combustion-derived particles.

Comparison of biological responses between submerged, pseudo-air-liquid interface, and air-liquid interface exposure of A549 and differentiated THP-1 co-cultures to combustion-derived particles

Air liquid interface (ALI) exposure systems are gaining interest, and studies suggest enhanced response of lung cells exposed to particles at ALI as compared to submerged exposure, although the results have been somewhat inconsistent. Previous studies have used monocultures and measured particle deposition using assumptions including consistent particle deposition, particle density, and shape. This study exposed co-cultures of A549 and differentiated THP-1 cells to flame-generated particles using three exposure methods: ALI, pseudo-ALI, and submerged. The dose at ALI was measured directly, reducing the need for assumptions about particle properties and deposition. For all exposure methods an enhanced pro-inflammatory response (TNFα) and Cytochrome P450 (CYP1A1) gene expression, compared to their corresponding negative controls, was observed. ALI exposure induced a significantly greater TNFα response compared to submerged exposure. The submerged exposures exhibited greater induction of CYP1A1 than other exposure methods, although not statistically significant. Some of the factors behind the observed difference in responses for the three exposure methods include differences in physicochemical properties of particles in suspending media, delivered dose, and potential contribution of gas-phase species to cellular response in ALI exposure. However, given the difficulty and expense of ALI exposures, submerged exposure may still provide relevant information for particulate exposures.

GM-CSF production by non-classical monocytes controls antagonistic LPS-driven functions in allergic inflammation

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can either promote or prevent T helper 2 (Th2) cell allergic responses. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. We show here that LPS activity switches from pro-pathogenic to protective depending on the production of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) by non-classical monocytes. In the absence of GM-CSF, LPS can favor pathogenic Th2 cell responses by supporting the trafficking of lung-migratory dendritic cells (mDC2s) into the lung-draining lymph node. However, when non-classical monocytes produce GM-CSF, LPS and GM-CSF synergize to differentiate monocyte-derived DCs from classical Ly6Chi monocytes that instruct mDC2s for Th2 cell suppression. Importantly, only allergens with cysteine protease activity trigger GM-CSF production by non-classical monocytes. Hence, the therapeutic effect of LPS is restricted to allergens with this enzymatic activity. Treatment with GM-CSF, however, restores the protective effects of LPS. Thus, GM-CSF produced by non-classical monocytes acts as a rheostat that fine-tunes the pathogenic and therapeutic functions of LPS.

Feasibility of a High-Volume Filter Sampler for Detecting SARS-CoV-2 RNA in COVID-19 Patient Rooms

Aerosolization of SARS-CoV-2 by COVID-19 patients can put healthcare workers and susceptible individuals at risk of infection. Air sampling for SARS-CoV-2 has been conducted in healthcare settings, but methods vary widely and there is need for improvement. The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of using a high-volume filter sampler, BioCapture z720, to detect SARS-CoV-2 in COVID-19 patient rooms in a medical intensive care unit, a dedicated COVID-19 ward, and at nurses’ stations. In some locations, the BioSpot-VIVAS, known for high efficiency in the collection of virus-containing bioaerosols, was also operated. The samples were processed for SARS-CoV-2 RNA with multi-plex nested polymerase chain reaction. One of 28 samples collected with the high-volume filter sampler was positive for SARS-CoV-2; all 6 samples collected with BioSpot-VIVAS were negative for SARS-CoV-2. The high-volume filter sampler was more portable and less intrusive in patient rooms than the BioSpot-VIVAS, but limits of detection remain unknown for this device. This study will inform future work to evaluate the reliability of these types of instruments and inform best practices for their use in healthcare environments for SARS-CoV-2 air sampling.

A retrospective audit of endoscopic duodenal biopsies to uncover undetected Coeliac disease in Malaysian patients

BACKGROUND

Coeliac disease, an autoimmune enteropathy related to gluten sensitivity was hitherto thought to be rare in Asia. Recent data however suggests that Celiac disease may be under-diagnosed in Asia.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this audit was to determine the frequency of histological changes compatible with Coeliac disease among patients undergoing elective diagnostic oesaphago-gastro-duodenoscopy (OGDS) under the care of a single practitioner in a Malaysian hospital.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The archived endoscopically obtained duodenal biopsy specimens of 241 consecutive Malaysian subjects undergoing elective diagnostic (OGDS) were reviewed by a pathologist blinded to the clinical data. Based on intra-epithelial lymphocyte counts, crypt hyperplasia and villous atrophy, each subject was assigned to one of the categories of the Modified Marsh classification for the histological diagnosis of Coeliac disease. The clinical charts of all subjects were reviewed by a single gastroenterologist blinded to the findings of the histological review.

RESULTS

Of the 241 study subjects, 132 (54.8%) were females. There were 56 (23.2%) Malays, 90 (37.3%) Chinese, 88 (36.5%) Indians and seven (2.9%) from the other category. The median age of the study sample was 49 years (range 15- 88 years). The OGDS was done as part of screening in 15(6.2%) subjects while in the remaining it was part of the investigation of a clinical problem. Based on histological findings, none of the subjects could be assigned to a modified Marsh class of >1. The prevalence of histological changes compatible with Coeliac disease in the study was 0% (binomial exact one-sided 97.5 % confidence interval 0- 1.52%).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this audit provides no evidence that active Coeliac disease is significantly under-detected among symptomatic patients presenting for diagnostic OGDS. The possibility that a significant number may have potential coeliac disease cannot be excluded.

Nasal endoscopy, room filtration, and aerosol concentrations during live outpatient encounters: a prospective, case-control study

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has highlighted safety concerns surrounding possible aerosol‐generating procedures, but comparative data on the smallest particles capable of transmitting this virus remain limited. We evaluated the effect of nasal endoscopy on aerosol concentration and the role of a high‐efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in reducing aerosol concentration.

Methods

Otolaryngology patients were prospectively enrolled in an outpatient, cross‐sectional study. Demographic information and clinic room characteristics were recorded. A scanning mobility particle sizer and GRIMM aerosol monitor measured aerosols 14.3 nm to 34 μm in diameter (i.e., particles smaller than those currently examined in the literature) during (1) nasal endoscopy (± debridement) and (2) no nasal endoscopy encounters. One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Student's t test were performed to compare aerosol concentrations and impact of HEPA filtration.

Results

Sixty‐two patients met inclusion criteria (25 nasal endoscopy without debridement; 18 nasal endoscopy with debridement; 19 no nasal endoscopy). There was no significant difference in age or gender across cohorts. Aerosol concentration in the nasal endoscopy cohort (± debridement) was not greater than the no nasal endoscopy cohort (p = 0.36; confidence interval [95% CI], −1.76 to 0.17 μg/m³; and p = 0.12; 95% CI, −0.11 to 2.14 μg/m³, respectively). Aerosol concentrations returned to baseline after 8.76 min without a HEPA filter versus 4.75 min with a HEPA filter (p = 0.001; 95% CI, 1.73–6.3 min).

Conclusion

Using advanced instrumentation and a comparative study design, aerosol concentration was shown to be no greater during nasal endoscopy versus no endoscopy encounters. HEPA filter utilization reduced aerosol concentrations significantly faster than no HEPA filter.

Determining real-time mass deposition with a quartz crystal microbalance in an electrostatic, parallel-flow, air-liquid interface exposure system

In vitro studies are the first step toward understanding the biological effects of particulate matter. As a more realistic exposure strategy than submerged culture approaches, air-liquid interface (ALI) in vitro exposure systems are gaining interest. One challenge with ALI systems is determining accurate particle mass deposition. Although a few commercially available ALI systems are equipped with online mass deposition monitoring, most studies use indirect methods to estimate mass doses. These different indirect methods may contribute to inconsistencies in the results from in vitro studies of aerosolized nanoparticles. This study explored the effectiveness of using a commercially available Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) to estimate the real-time, particle-mass deposition inside an electrostatic, parallel-flow, ALI system. The QCM system required minor modifications, including custom-designed and fabricated headers. Three QCM systems were simultaneously placed in three of the six wells in the ALI exposure chamber to evaluate the uniformity of particle deposition. The measurements from fluorescein dosimetry and QCM revealed an uneven deposition between these six wells. The performance of the QCM system was also evaluated using two different methods. First, using fluorescein deposition in one well, depositions in three other wells were estimated, which was then compared to the actual QCM readings. Second, using the QCM measured deposition in one well, the deposition in three other wells was estimated and compared to deposition measured by fluorescein dosimetry. For both methods, the expected and actual deposition yields a linear fit with the slope ~1. This good fit suggests that QCM systems can be used to measure real-time mass deposition in an electrostatic ALI system.

Role of magnetic resonance imaging in breast cancer management

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the breast is primarily used as a supplemental tool to breast screening with mammography or ultrasound. A breast MRI is mainly used for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer, to help measure the size of the cancer, look for other tumors in the breast, and to check for tumors in the opposite breast. For certain women at high risk for breast cancer, a screening MRI is recommended along with a yearly mammogram. MRI is known to give some false positive results which mean more test and/or biopsies for the patient. Thus, although breast MRI is useful for women at high risk, it is rarely recommended as a screening test for women at average risk of breast cancer. Also, breast MRI does not show calcium deposits, known as micro-calcifications which can be a sign of breast cancer.

Dihydrotestosterone in Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis-The missing link?

OBJECTIVE

Testosterone has been postulated to be involved in ALS causation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

CSF levels of free testosterone and dihydrotestosterone were measured in 13 ALS patients [7 males, 6 females] and 22 controls [12 males, 10 females].

RESULTS

CSF free testosterone levels did not show any significant differences but CSF dihydrotestosterone levels were significantly decreased in all male and female ALS patients.

CONCLUSIONS

DHT is probably integral to survival of motor neurons. In patients predisposed to develop ALS, there is possibly a sort of "testosterone resistance" at level of blood-brain barrier [BBB] existing right from birth and is likely the result of dysfunctional transport protein involved in testosterone transfer across the BBB. In these patients, lesser amount of testosterone is able to breach the BBB and enter the central neural axis. Lesser amount of testosterone is available to 5 α reductase in the anterior pituitary to be converted to DHT and lesser amount of DHT is generated. There is inadequate negative feedback suppression of LH at the level of anterior pituitary by DHT. As a result of higher LH levels, testosterone levels rise in the peripheral testosterone fraction [the fraction outside the BBB] and this explains the various physical attributes of ALS patients like lower Ratio of the index and ring finger lengths (2D:4D ratio), increased incidence of early onset alopecia etc. This deficiency of DHT leads to motor neuron death causing ALS.

Characterization of renewable diesel particulate matter gathered from non-premixed and partially premixed flame burners and from a diesel engine

Particulate matter coming from the combustion of renewable diesel (RD), ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) and a volumetric blend of 30% of RD with ULSD (RD30) were collected and physico-chemically characterized. Soot samples were generated in two flame burner types (non-premixed flame, NPF, and partially premixed flame, PPF) trying to simulate the diffusion and premix regimes found in diesel engines. The impact of both fuel nature and burner type was assessed on soot mass, particle size and morphology, particle nanostructure and surface functional groups. In general, although the results of HRTEM and SMPS suggested that the addition of RD reduced the average particle size and increased the concentration of ultra-fine particles, the mass emission of soot was drastically mitigated regardless of the burner used. The results also suggest that the changes in the chemical characteristics of the soot were slightly more sensitive than the changes in the internal nanostructure of the particles, since the graphitic character (as showed by Raman and infrared analysis) increased as the RD content increased, being stronger for the PPF system. Comparisons between engine soot and flame soot confirmed that the addition of RD into ULSD produced smaller and more carbonized particles. In fact, some engine results were located in between those obtained in PPF and NPF burners, suggesting that both combustion regimes are contributing to soot characteristics in engines. This consistency suggests that a first assessment of the impact of alternative fuels on the characteristics of particulate matter can be conducted through the basic approach offered by laboratory flames, thereby avoiding the costs associated with generating large quantities of fuel and the complexities of in-cylinder physical interactions and engine parameters.

Development of a calibration chamber to evaluate the performance of low-cost particulate matter sensors

Low-cost particulate matter (PM) air quality sensors are becoming widely available and are being increasingly deployed in ambient and home/workplace environments due to their low cost, compactness, and ability to provide more highly resolved spatiotemporal PM concentrations. However, the PM data from these sensors are often of questionable quality, and the sensors need to be characterized individually for the environmental conditions under which they will be making measurements. In this study, we designed and assessed a cost-effective (∼$700) calibration chamber capable of continuously providing a uniform PM concentration simultaneously to multiple low-cost PM sensors and robust calibration relationships that are independent of sensor position. The chamber was designed and evaluated with a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model and a rigorous experimental protocol. We then used this new chamber to calibrate 242 Plantower PMS 3003 sensors from two production lots (Batches I and II) with two aerosol types: ammonium nitrate (for Batches I and II) and alumina oxide (for Batch I). Our CFD models and experiments demonstrated that the chamber is capable of providing uniform PM concentration to 8 PM sensors at once within 6% error and with excellent reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient > 0.771). The study identified two malfunctioning sensors and showed that the remaining sensors had high linear correlations with a DustTrak monitor that was calibrated for each aerosol type (R2 > 0.978). Finally, the results revealed statistically significant differences between the responses of Batches I and II sensors to the same aerosol (P-value<0.001) and the Batch I sensors to the two different aerosol types (P-value<0.001). This chamber design and evaluation protocol can provide a useful tool for those interested in systematic laboratory characterization of low-cost PM sensors.

Application of a Quartz Crystal Microbalance to Measure the Mass Concentration of Combustion Particle Suspensions

Researchers studying the biological effects of combustion particles typically rely on suspending particles in de-ionized (DI) water, buffer, and/or media prior to in vitro or in vivo experiments. However, the hydrophobic nature of combustion particles makes it difficult to obtain well-suspended, evenly dispersed mixtures, which also makes it difficult to obtain equivalent dosing and endpoint comparisons. This study explored the use of a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) to measure the mass concentration of combustion particle suspensions. It compared the QCM mass concentration to that estimated by placing a known mass of combustion particles in DI water. It also evaluated the effect of drop volume and combustion particle type on QCM measurements. The results showed that QCM is a promising direct method for measuring suspended combustion particle mass concentrations, and it is particularly effective for quantifying concentrations of difficult-to-suspend particles and for combustion particles placed in polystyrene containers, which can lead to substantial particle losses.

P04.19 Analysis of tumor immune microenvironment and immune checkpoint modulators across infantile and pediatric pilocytic astrocytomas to elucidate the role of immunotherapy in these tumors

BACKGROUND

Pilocytic astrocytomas are the most common central nervous system tumors in pediatric age-group. Although grade I, some of the cases show recurrence and progression, and few might not be amenable to surgery due to location or size, and hence have a less favorable prognosis. Drugs blocking immune check-point interactions such as those including programmed cell death ligand-1 (PD-L1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) are now in clinical use for certain tumors. We performed this study to understand the potential candidature of pilocytic astrocytomas in infants and children for immunotherapy by analyzing the expression of immune checkpoint proteins and immune infiltrate, and correlating with clinical details, wherever possible.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cases with adequate tissue (2010–2017) diagnosed in pediatric age-group (<18 years) were retreived from the archives of Department of Pathology, AIIMS, New Delhi. Immunohistochemistry for PD-L1 (SP263, Ventana), CTLA-4, CD3, CD8, CD4 and CD68 was performed. Quantification of cytotoxic lymphocytes was done using digital imaging in the core of the tumor.

RESULTS

A total of 50 pilocytic astrocytomas were included, 14 of them were <3 years (infants), while 36 were of pediatric age-group (3–18 years). Overall, male preponderance was noted. Cerebellum was the most common location, followed by 4th venrticle, optic pathway, hypothalamus, cerebrum and thalamus. Almost all CD3 lymphocytes were cytotoxic T-lymphocyes (CD8 positive, CTLs). Helper T-lymphocyte infiltration was not seen. Median CTL density/mm3 was 13/mm3(Range:1–85/mm3). CTLA-4 was positive in 4 cases, positivity ranged from 1–4 cells/lpf. PD-L1 was found to be positive in 7 cases, and the positivity ranged from 1+ to 2+ in 1 to 5% of tumor cells. A median TAM (tumor associated macrophages) density of 44/hpf (range: 1–98/hpf) was noted. There was no correlation of CTL density with PD-L1 or CTLA-4 expression, and neither with TAM density. On correlation with clinical parameters, a higher density of CTLs and TAMs was noted in infants, and a higher proportion of cases revealed PD-L1 positivity, though not statistically significant. There was no correlation of TILs or TAMs with the tumor location.

CONCLUSION

Immune check point blockade using PD-(L)1 or CTLA4 inhibitors may not be a potential therapeutic option for unresectable or recurrent pilocytic astrocytomas, as low positivity rate as well as extremely low percentage of tumor/ immune cells found to be positive. However, alternate forms of immunotherapy might be helpful as most of the cases showed immune infiltrates and a high density of tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). Large scale studies with larger numbers and longer follow-up periods including in-vitro and clinical studies are warranted for decoding the tumor immunogram.

P14.117 Cost efficient test algorithm for molecular subgrouping of medulloblastomas for day-to-day practice in resource limited countries

INTRODUCTION

Molecular classification of medulloblastomas(MB) is prognostically and therapeutically relevant and helps in better risk-stratification. Translation of this subgrouping to routine practice still remains a challenge. The most pathologist-accessible techniques for molecular subgrouping include immunohistochemistry(IHC), fluorescent in-situ hybridization(FISH) and Nanostring assay. Objectives:(1)Molecular subgrouping of MBs by IHC and FISH, and Nanostring Assay (2)To compare their efficacy against sequencing and DNA methylation, and cost for applicability in resource-constrained centers

METHODS

Ninety-five cases of MB with adequate tissue were included. Molecular subgrouping was performed by IHC for β-catenin, GAB1, YAP1, and p53; FISH for MYC amplification, and sequencing for CTNNB1, and by Nanostring Assay on the same set of MBs. Further, a subset of cases were subjected to 850k DNA methylation array.

RESULTS

IHC+FISH classified MBs into 15.8% WNT, 16.8% SHH, and 67.4% non-WNT/non-SHH subgroups; with MYC amplification identified in 20.3% cases of non-WNT/non-SHH. A single showed diffuse strong p53 positivity among the SHH subgroup. Nanostring successfully classified 91.5% MBs into 25.3% WNT, 17.2% SHH, 23% Group3 and 34.5% Group4. However, Nanostring assay failure was seen in eight cases, all of which were >8-years-old formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue blocks. Concordant subgroup assignment was noted in 88.5% cases, while subgroup switching was seen in 11.5% cases. Both methods showed prognostic correlation. Among the 5 discrepant cases, which switched to WNT subgroup by Nanostring, only 2 were found to have CTNNB1 mutation. Methylation profiling performed on discordant cases revealed 1 out of 4 extra WNT identified by Nanostring to be WNT, others aligned with IHC subgroups; extra SHH by Nanostring turned out to be SHH by methylation.

CONCLUSIONS

Both IHC supplemented by FISH and Nanostring are robust methods for molecular subgrouping, albeit with few disadvantages. IHC cannot differentiate between Groups 3 and 4, while Nanostring cannot classify older-archived tumors, and is not available at most centres. WNT subgroup with the best prognosis is best detected by IHC or IHC followed by sequencing for confirmation. Nanostring Assay is better suitable to separate Group 3, the worst prognostic group from Group 4. Thus, both the methods complement each other and can be used in concert for high confidence allotment of molecular subgroups in clinical practice. The cost of IHC plus Nanostring will almost be the same as IHC plus FISH. We recommend a cost-efficient algorithmic approach using histopathological subtype and IHC as the first step followed by Nanostring or FISH, wherever suitable.

Effect of collection methods on combustion particle physicochemical properties and their biological response in a human macrophage-like cell line

In vitro studies are a first step toward understanding the biological effects of combustion-derived particulate matter (cdPM). A vast majority of studies expose cells to cdPM suspensions, which requires a method to collect cdPM and suspend it in an aqueous media. The consequences of different particle collection methods on particle physiochemical properties and resulting biological responses are not fully understood. This study investigated the effect of two common approaches (collection on a filter and a cold plate) and one relatively new (direct bubbling in DI water) approach to particle collection. The three approaches yielded cdPM with differences in particle size distribution, surface area, composition, and oxidative potential. The directly bubbled sample retained the smallest sized particles and the bimodal distribution observed in the gas-phase. The bubbled sample contained ∼50% of its mass as dissolved species and lower molecular weight compounds, not found in the other two samples. These differences in the cdPM properties affected the biological responses in THP-1 cells. The bubbled sample showed greater oxidative potential and cellular reactive oxygen species. The scraped sample induced the greatest TNFα secretion. These findings have implications for in vitro studies of air pollution and for efforts to better understand the underlying mechanisms.

Impaired tumor-necrosis-factor-α-driven dendritic cell activation limits lipopolysaccharide-induced protection from allergic inflammation in infants

Infants have a higher risk of developing allergic asthma than adults. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. We show here that sensitization of mice with house-dust mites (HDMs) in the presence of low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) prevented T helper 2 (Th2) cell allergic responses in adult, but not infant, mice. Mechanistically, adult CD11b + migratory dendritic cells (mDCs) upregulated the transcription factor T-bet in response to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), which was rapidly induced after HDM + LPS sensitization. Consequently, adult CD11b+ mDCs produced interleukin-12 (IL-12), which prevented Th2 cell development by promoting T-bet upregulation in responding T cells. Conversely, infants failed to induce TNF-α after HDM + LPS sensitization. Therefore, CD11b+ mDCs failed to upregulate T-bet and did not secrete IL-12 and Th2 cell responses normally developed in infant mice. Thus, the availability of TNF-α dictates the ability of CD11b+ mDCs to suppress allergic Th2-cell responses upon dose-dependent endotoxin sensitization and is a key mediator governing susceptibility to allergic airway inflammation in infant mice.

[The above abstract is a summary from our recently published paper under the same title – Immunity; published: Jan 8, 2019 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.immuni.2018.11.012]

Impaired Tumor-Necrosis-Factor-α-driven Dendritic Cell Activation Limits Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Protection from Allergic Inflammation in Infants

Infants have a higher risk of developing allergic asthma than adults. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. We show here that sensitization of mice with house-dust mites (HDMs) in the presence of low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) prevented T helper 2 (Th2) cell allergic responses in adult, but not infant, mice. Mechanistically, adult CD11b⁺ migratory dendritic cells (mDCs) upregulated the transcription factor T-bet in response to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), which was rapidly induced after HDM + LPS sensitization. Consequently, adult CD11b⁺ mDCs produced interleukin-12 (IL-12), which prevented Th2 cell development by promoting T-bet upregulation in responding T cells. Conversely, infants failed to induce TNF-α after HDM + LPS sensitization. Therefore, CD11b⁺ mDCs failed to upregulate T-bet and did not secrete IL-12 and Th2 cell responses normally developed in infant mice. Thus, the availability of TNF-α dictates the ability of CD11b⁺ mDCs to suppress allergic Th2-cell responses upon dose-dependent endotoxin sensitization and is a key mediator governing susceptibility to allergic airway inflammation in infant mice.

Chemotherapy with si-RNA and Anti-Cancer Drugs

BACKGROUND

To treat cancer, chemotherapy is a key therapeutic approach which is associated with several limitations. This chemotherapeutical agent exhibits multi drug resistance coupled with undesirable side effects. This multidrug resistance is exhibited by tumor cell due to actuation of drug out flow mechanism, programmed cell death and protection mechanisms etc. One of the therapeutic approaches to cure cancer is RNA interference (RNAi). Small interfering RNA (si-RNA) is considered as a major therapeutic tool used to control expression of a particular gene. It is a well known fact that intake of more drugs can lead to cancer chemo resistance, thus siRNA based therapeutic approach is under scrutiny to cure cancer.

METHODS

This review article gives an overview of various combination approaches for si-RNA with chemotherapeutics. Further, article highlights the potential of nanotechnology to improve bioavailability of drug and bio-therapeutics at the site of action.

RESULTS

Combination chemotherapy is employed in clinics as a main cancer treatment tool to suppress multidrug resistance in cancer. On the other hand, suitable protective carrier is needed due to the stability issues and small size of si-RNA. To overcome these drawbacks associated with siRNA currently, nanotechnology based approaches have been widely used.

CONCLUSION

Delivery of anti-cancer drugs with si-RNA will be one of important intermingled approach to reduce duration of chemotherapy and improve therapeutic outcomes in cancer patient.

Short-Term Moderate Sleep Restriction Decreases Insulin Sensitivity in Young Healthy Adults

CONTEXT AND PURPOSE

The literature suggests that severe sleep loss of more than a few hours a night decreases glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. The aim of this study was to determine whether moderate sleep restriction had similar effects.

METHODS

Fifteen healthy non-obese (BMI=24.5±3.4 kg/m²) young adults (20.6±1.3 years) completed two 2-hour oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT): one was after 3 days of time-in-bed restriction by 1-3 hours each night, and the other was after 3 days of ad libitum sleep. Glucose and insulin concentrations during OGTT, and fasting glucagon and cortisol concentrations were determined. The homeostasis model of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), Matsuda index, and the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) were calculated.

RESULTS

The total time-in-bed during the sleep restriction and the ad libitum phase was 5.98±0.76 and 7.98±0.54 hours/day, and total sleep time was 5.16±0.49 and 6.65±0.64 hours/day, respectively. Glucose concentrations before and 30, 60, 90, and 120 minutes following consumption of glucose and area under the curve were not different for the two OGTT (p > 0.10 for all). Insulin concentration at fasting and area under the curve during the OGTT were significantly higher (p = 0.034 and 0.038, respectively) following restricted sleep than following ad libitum sleep. Fasting glucagon concentration was also higher (p = 0.003). The HOMA-IR, Matsuda index, and QUICKI all suggested decreased insulin sensitivity following restricted sleep.

CONCLUSION

Short-term moderate sleep restriction reduced insulin sensitivity compared to ad libitum sleep in this group of healthy young adults.

Antibiotic-mediated bacteriome depletion in ApcMin/+ mice is associated with reduction in mucus-producing goblet cells and increased colorectal cancer progression

Recent epidemiological evidence suggests that exposure to antibiotics in early‐to‐middle adulthood is associated with an increased risk of colorectal adenoma. However, mechanistic studies in established preclinical cancer to examine these claims are extremely limited. Therefore, we investigated the effect of long‐term exposure of an antibiotic cocktail composed of Vancomycin, Neomycin, and Streptomycin, on tumor development and progression in the Apc^Min/+ mouse, an established genetic model for familial adenomatous polyposis. Clinical pathologies related to tumor development as well as intestinal and colon tissue histopathology were studied at ages 8, 12, and 16 weeks of age, which correspond to the approximate ages of development of neoplasia, gut inflammation with polyposis, and cancer progression, respectively, in this animal model. We show that the antibiotics significantly increase the severity of clinical symptoms, including effects on intestinal histology and goblet cell numbers. In addition, they promote small intestinal polyposis. Finally, metagenomic analysis of fecal samples demonstrated that antibiotic exposure is associated with a significant but nonuniform depletion of the animal's natural gut flora. Overall, these findings support the premise that long‐term antibiotic exposure mediates the selected depletion of gut microbial communities and the concomitant thinning of the protective mucus layer, resulting in an increase in tumor development.

Engineered Peptides for Applications in Cancer-Targeted Drug Delivery and Tumor Detection

Cancer-targeting peptides as ligands for targeted delivery of anticancer drugs or drug carriers have the potential to significantly enhance the selectivity and the therapeutic benefit of current chemotherapeutic agents. Identification of tumor-specific biomarkers like integrins, aminopeptidase N, and epidermal growth factor receptor as well as the popularity of phage display techniques along with synthetic combinatorial methods used for peptide design and structure optimization have fueled the advancement and application of peptide ligands for targeted drug delivery and tumor detection in cancer treatment, detection and guided therapy. Although considerable preclinical data have shown remarkable success in the use of tumor targeting peptides, peptides generally suffer from poor pharmacokinetics, enzymatic instability, and weak receptor affinity, and they need further structural modification before successful translation to clinics is possible. The current review gives an overview of the different engineering strategies that have been developed for peptide structure optimization to confer selectivity and stability. We also provide an update on the methods used for peptide ligand identification, and peptide- receptor interactions. Additionally, some applications for the use of peptides in targeted delivery of chemotherapeutics and diagnostics over the past 5 years are summarized.

Dietary selenium protects adiponectin knockout mice against chronic inflammation induced colon cancer

Selenium (Se) is an essential dietary micronutrient that has been examined for protection against different types of cancers including colon cancer. Despite an established inverse association between Se and chronic inflammation induced colon cancer (CICC), the mechanistic understanding of Se's protective effects requires additional in-vivo studies using preclinical animal models of CICC. Adiponectin (APN) is an adipocytokine that is protective against CICC as well. However, its role in the anti-mutagenic effects of the Se-diet remains unknown. To address this knowledge gap, here we examine the ability of dietary Se in reducing CICC in APN knockout mice (KO) and its wild-type C57BL/6. CICC was induced with the colon cancer agent 1,2 dimethyl hydrazine (DMH) along with dextran sodium sulfate (DSS). Se-enhanced diet increased selenoproteins, Gpx-1 and Gpx-2, in the colon tissues, thereby reducing oxidative stress. Se-mediated reduction of CICC was evident from the histopathological studies in both mouse models. In both mice, reduction in inflammation and tumorigenesis associated well with reduced p65 phosphorylation and elevated 53 phosphorylation. Finally, we show that in both models Se-administration promotes goblet cell differentiation with a concomitant increase in the levels of associated proteins, Muc-2 and Math-1. Our findings suggest that Se's protection against CICC involves both colonic epithelial protection and anti-tumor effects that are independent of APN.

ASSESSMENT OF INHALATION DOSE FROM THE INDOOR 222Rn AND 220Rn USING RAD7 AND PINHOLE CUP DOSEMETERS

Radon is the most important source of natural radiation and is responsible for approximately half of the received dose from all sources. Most of this dose is from inhalation of the radon progeny, especially in closed atmospheres. Concentration of radon (²²²Rn) and thoron (²²⁰Rn) in the different villages of Jalandhar and Kapurthala district of Punjab has been calculated by pinhole cup dosemeters and RAD7. On an average, it has been observed from the study that the values of all the parameters calculated are higher in case of active monitoring than the passive monitoring. The calculated equilibrium equivalent ²²²Rn concentration (EEC_Rn) and equilibrium equivalent ²²⁰Rn concentration (EEC_Th) fluctuate in the range from 5.58 to 34.29 and from 0.35 to 2.7 Bq m^-3 as estimated by active technique, respectively. Similarly, the observed mean value of the potential alpha energy concentration of ²²²Rn (PAEC_Rn) and ²²⁰Rn (PAEC_Th) is 4.55 and 4.34 mWL, respectively. The dose rate to the soft tissues and lung from indoor ²²²Rn varies from 0.06 to 0.38 and from 0.50 to 3.05 nGy h^-1, respectively. The total annual effective dose for the residents of the study area is less than 10 mSv.

Nanomechanical sandwich assay for multiple cancer biomarkers in breast cancer cell-derived exosomes

The use of exosomes as cancer diagnostic biomarkers is technically limited by their size, heterogeneity and the need for extensive purification and labelling. We report the use of cantilever arrays for simultaneous detection of multiple exosomal surface-antigens with high sensitivity and selectivity. Exosomes from breast cancer were selectively identified by detecting over-expressed membrane-proteins CD24, CD63, and EGFR. Excellent selectivity however, was achieved when targeting the cell-surface proteoglycan, Glypican-1 at extraordinary limits (∼200 exosomes per mL, ∼0.1 pg mL(-1)).