Revisiting the supratrigeminal nucleus in the rat

The supratrigeminal nucleus (Vsup), originally proposed as a premotoneuron pool in the trigeminal reflex arc, is a key structure of jaw movement control. Surprisingly, however, the location of the rat Vsup has not precisely been defined. In light of our previous cat studies, we made two hypotheses regarding the rat Vsup: (1) the Vsup is cytoarchitectonically distinguishable from its surrounding structures; (2) the Vsup receives central axon terminals of the trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus (Vmes) neurons which are primary afferents innervating muscle spindles of jaw-closing muscles and periodontal ligaments around the teeth. To test the first hypothesis, we examined the cytoarchitecture of the rat Vsup. The Vsup was identified as an area medially adjacent to the dorsomedial part of trigeminal principal sensory nucleus (Vp), and extended from the level just rostral to the caudal two-thirds of the trigeminal motor nucleus (Vmo) to the level approximately 150 μm caudal to the Vmo. Our rat Vsup was much smaller and its location was considerably different in comparison to the Vsup reported previously. To evaluate the second hypothesis, we tested the distribution patterns of Vmes primary afferent terminals in the cytoarchitectonically identified Vsup. After transganglionic tracer applications to the masseter, deep temporal, and medial pterygoid nerves, a large number of axon terminals were observed in all parts of Vsup (especially in its medial part). After applications to the inferior alveolar, infraorbital, and lingual nerves, a small number of axon terminals were labeled in the caudolateral Vsup. The Vsup could also be identified electrophysiologically. After electrical stimulation of the masseter nerve, evoked potentials with slow negative component were isolated only in the Vsup. The present findings suggest that the rat Vsup can be cytoarchitectonically and electrophysiologically identified, receives somatotopic termination of the trigeminal primary afferents, and principally receives strong termination of the spindle Vmes primary afferents.

Ouabain-induced vacuolar formation in marginal cells in the stria vascularis is dependent on perilymphatic Na(+)

In the stria vascularis (SV), it is known that the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase is expressed abundantly and its activity in the basolateral membrane of marginal cells is high. Ouabain, an inhibitor of the Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase, causes not only a decline in the endocochlear DC potential but also acute vacuolar formation in marginal cells. We studied the ionic mechanisms underlying the ouabain-induced vacuolar formation in marginal cells using perilymphatic perfusion in guinea pigs. Perilymphatic perfusion with 1 mM ouabain dissolved in the artificial perilymph for 50 min caused many vacuoles of a wide range of sizes in the apical cytoplasm of marginal cells, the bulging of marginal cells into the scala media and strial volume increase. Removal of K(+) from the perilymph reduced the proportion of vacuoles and strial thickening, but the bulging of marginal cells remained. In contrast, the sizes of vacuoles were drastically reduced and extrusion of marginal cells into the scala media could not be observed in the absence of perilymphatic Na(+). Furthermore, the total volume of SV was obviously reduced in comparison with the control. These results indicate that perilymphatic Na(+) and K(+) are responsible for these morphological changes caused by ouabain, and that perilymphatic Na(+) plays an important role in the cellular volume regulation in SV in the presence of ouabain. It is supposed that the transport system of perilymphatic Na(+) and K(+) into marginal cells may contribute to vacuolar formation when ouabain is administered. Regarding Na(+), we hypothesize two possibilities for the perilymphatic Na(+) transporting pathway as follows. Na(+) in the perilymph could enter the endolymph via Reissner's membrane or the basilar membrane; Na(+) in the endolymph would then be taken up by marginal cells via the apical membrane and secreted into the intrastrial space by Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase in the basolateral membrane. Another, less likely, possibility is that Na(+) in the perilymph is transported into basal cells or fibrocytes in the spiral ligament, then into intermediate cells via gap junctions, and finally secreted into the intrastrial space via Na(+)-K(+)-ATPase of intermediate cells. Regarding K(+), it is expected that the K(+) recycling pathway plays a role in ouabain-induced vacuolar formation in marginal cells.

Safe reconstruction of a large cervico-mediastinal tracheal defect with a pectoralis major myocutaneous flap and free costal cartilage grafts

A large cervico-mediastinal tracheal defect in a 72-year-old man as a result of surgery for thyroid carcinoma with tracheal invasion and mediastinal lymph node metastasis was reconstructed using a pectoralis major myocutaneous flap and free costal cartilage grafts. The tracheal defect (55 mm x 30 mm) was located at the thoracic inlet adjacent to the major mediastinal vessels. Our reconstructive procedure was a two-staged surgery. In the first stage, a pectoralis major myocutaneous flap was transferred to the neck to provide a well-vascularized recipient bed for free costal cartilage grafts and to cover large vessels. Two pieces of free costal cartilage were grafted on the pectoralis major myocutaneous flap, one for the lateral wall reconstruction and the other prefabricated for the anterior wall of the trachea. In the second stage, the re-vascularized cartilage graft for the anterior wall of the trachea with overlying skin was rotated onto the trough of the remaining trachea and the closure of the tracheal defect was completed. We conclude that free cartilage grafts for the reconstruction of a large cervico-mediastinal tracheal defect can be safely used when they are combined with well-vascularized pectoralis major myocutaneous flaps.

Effects of amino acid on morphological development and nucleus formation of arachidonic acid-producing filamentous micro-organism, Mortierella alpina

AIMS

Effects of amino acid on morphological development and nucleus formation of arachidonic acid-producing filamentous micro-organism, Mortierella alpina were investigated using flow-through chamber.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Mortierella alpina CBS 754.68 was cultivated in flow through chamber using nutrient-rich, minimal and specific amino acid-containing minimal media. To investigate the effect of amino acid on morphological parameters either 0.28 g l(-1) alanine, 0.53 g l(-1) sodium glutamate one hydrate or 0.42 g l(-1) valine was added to the minimal medium. In a flow-through chamber, the growth of hyphal elements and nucleus formation of arachidonic acid-producing fungus M. alpina were studied on-line, using image analysis techniques. When the Ala- and Val-containing media were used, the hyphal growth units (HGUs) were 90.2 and 86.7 microm per tip, respectively, which were 2.4-fold higher than that in the nutrient-rich medium, indicating that Ala and Val stimulate the elongation of hyphae. The specific nucleus formation rates were Glu->Val-containing media>minimal and nutrient-rich media>Ala-containing medium. The nucleus doubling times in Glu- and Val-containing media were 1.9 and 2 h, respectively, which were not significant different.

CONCLUSIONS

Ala and Val stimulate the elongation of M. alpina hyphae, and nucleus formation rates were Glu->Val->Ala-containing media.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Formation of fungal morphology and nucleus were shown using the flow-through chamber coupled with image analysis, which making possible to discuss the relationship between mycelial morphology and nucleus formation of M. alpina.

Effect of consumed carbon to nitrogen ratio of mycelial morphology and arachidonic acid production in cultures of Mortierella alpina

The influence of the consumed carbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratio on arachidonic acid (AA) production and mycelial morphology was investigated in cultures of Mortierella alpina using shake flasks and a fermentor. The consumed C/N ratio was varied from 5 to 32 under the condition that the total initial amount of carbon and nitrogen sources was 50 g/l. Cellular yield increased markedly at C/N ratios below 7; carbon utilization was switched from cellular growth to lipid biosynthesis in the C/N ratio range of 7-15; lipid biosynthesis was most active when the C/N ratio was in the range of 15-32. However, for C/N ratios higher than 15, the mycelial concentration decreased due to nitrogen limitation but the lipid yield still increased. In the presence of excess nitrogen, the biomass concentration depended on the amount of the nitrogen source, but the AA yield was inversely related to this. On the other hand, in the presence of excess carbon, the fatty acid concentration increased with carbon source concentration but the AA concentration remained constant. From the viewpoint of AA production, the optimum C/N ratio was in the range of 15 to 20 with a balance between the amounts of carbon and nitrogen sources. When an enriched medium was used at a fixed C/N ratio of 20, the cellular and AA concentrations were shown to be proportional to the total concentrations of carbon and nitrogen sources in both flasks and the fermentor. The whole pellet size and width of pellet annular regions did not change with increasing C/N ratio for C/N ratios below 20 in the flask cultures. However, when the C/N ratio was higher than 20, these sizes increased in proportion to the C/N ratio.

Immunohistochemical Localization of Histamine Receptors in Rat Cochlea

OBJECTIVE

Histamine may have physiologic functions in the inner ear. The locations of histamine receptors, however, have not yet been identified in the mammalian cochlea. The aim of this study was to investigate the localization of histamine receptor subtypes (H1, H2, and H3 receptors) in rat cochlea.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry was performed with antibodies specific for each of the histamine receptors (H1, H2, and H3). To identify the type I and II spiral ganglion cells in the cochlea, some cryostat sections were double stained with antibodies to both a histamine receptor and neurofilament 200 kD, which predominantly stains type II spiral ganglion cells in the cochlea.

RESULTS

All H1, H2, and H3 receptor immunoreactive staining was limited to the spiral ganglion cells of the cochlea. Spiral ganglion cells with positive immunoreactivity to the neurofilament 200 kD antibody were stained only slightly by histamine H1, H2, and H3 receptor antibodies, indicating that histamine receptor immunoreactivity is specific to type I ganglion cells.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings indicate that histamine receptors are present in the cochlea and support the hypothesis that histamine plays a physiologic role in the cochlea.

Bumetanide-induced enlargement of the intercellular space in the stria vascularis critically depends on Na+ transport

The intercellular space in the stria vascularis (intrastrial space) is a closed space and isolated from both the endolymph and the perilymph in normal tissue. Loop diuretics such as bumetanide and furosemide cause an acute enlargement of the intrastrial space in association with a decline in the endocochlear potential. It is known that bumetanide inhibits the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter, which is expressed abundantly in the basolateral membrane of marginal cells. We studied ionic mechanisms underlying the bumetanide-induced enlargement of the intrastrial space using perilymphatic perfusion in guinea pigs. Perilymphatic perfusion with artificial perilymph containing 100 microM bumetanide caused marked enlargement of the intrastrial space, as reported previously. Removal of K+ from the perilymph did not affect the bumetanide-induced enlargement, whereas removal of Na+ from the perilymph inhibited it almost completely. Perilymph containing 1 mM amiloride also inhibited the enlargement of the intrastrial space almost completely. These results indicate that perilymphatic Na+, but not K+, and amiloride-sensitive pathways are essential to the bumetanide-induced enlargement of the intrastrial space. Two possible pathways could yield these results. Na+ in the perilymph could enter the endolymph via Reissner's membrane or the basilar membrane; Na+ in the endolymph would then be taken up by marginal cells via the apical membrane and secreted into the intrastrial space by Na+-K+-ATPase in the basolateral membrane of them. Another, less likely possibility is that Na+ in the perilymph is transported into basal cells or fibrocytes in the spiral ligament, then into intermediate cells via gap junctions, and finally secreted into the intrastrial space via Na+-K+-ATPase of intermediate cells.

Electrocochleographic findings in cases of autoimmune disease with sensorineural deafness

OBJECTIVES

To present electrocochleographic findings in patients with autoimmune disease (AD) with sensorineural deafness (ADSD), and to discuss the etiologies of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL) in cases of ADSD.

METHODS

Study design is a retrospective review of electrocochleographic results of 26 patients with ADSD. To evaluate the electrocochleographic results, average SP/AP ratios were compared between ADSD and normal subjects. In the ADSD group, audiologic pattern, fluctuations in hearing and results of the glycerol test were also reviewed. Electrocochleography (ECoG) was recorded using the extratympanic method, and the SP to AP ratio (SP/AP ratio) was analyzed.

RESULTS

The mean of average SP/AP ratios in the ADSD groups (0.46) was significantly higher than that in normal subjects (0.27). Further, 17 of 29 affected ears in patients with ADSD showed fluctuating hearing loss. Eighteen ears showed low tone loss (rising and peak audiologic patterns). Only 5 of 26 ears (19.2%) showed positive results on glycerol test. There was no correlation between glycerol test results and hearing fluctuation or between glycerol test results and the SP/AP ratio on chi(2)-test. There was no tendency between audiologic pattern and glycerol test results or between audiologic pattern and the SP/AP ratio.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest the etiologies of SNHL in cases of ADSD remain unclear. However, some cases showed clinical findings similar to endolymphatic hydrops. We should bear in mind that clinical Meniere's syndrome involves ADSD. Further investigation is needed to resolve the etiology of SNHL of ADSD.

Time Course of Dehydrating Effects of Isosorbide on Experimentally Induced Endolymphatic Hydrops in Guinea Pigs

Osmotic diuretics are therapeutic agents used to reduce endolymphatic hydrops. However, glycerol-induced change in endolymph volume is followed by a rebound phenomenon. In this study, we investigated the rebound phenomenon occurring with isosorbide, an osmotic diuretic used as a therapeutic agent for Ménière's disease in Japan. Forty guinea pigs underwent surgical obliteration of the endolymphatic sac. Thirty received isosorbide orally 1 month after surgery. These animals were sacrificed 3, 6, or 12 h after isosorbide intake. The remaining 10 animals served as controls. Quantitative assessment of changes in the endolymphatic space was performed light-microscopically. Isosorbide reduced cochlear endolymph volume, with a peak reduction 6 h after intake. Thereafter, no prominent rebound phenomenon was noted. Clinically, since isosorbide is orally administered every 8 h, rebound phenomenon need not be considered in the treatment with isosorbide.

Expression of mRNA encoding the H1, H2, and H3 histamine receptors in the rat cochlea

Histamine may have physiological functions in the inner ear. Histamine receptors, however, have not yet been identified in the mammalian cochlea. We determined, using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), that H1, H2, and H3 histamine receptor mRNA is expressed in the rat cochlea. To investigate the distribution of each receptor, the cochlea was divided into three parts: the lateral portion, the medial portion, and the modiolus. The mRNA for each receptor subtype was detected in the modiolus but not in the lateral and medial portions of the cochlea. This is the first evidence of H1, H2, and H3 histamine receptor mRNA in the rat cochlea. These findings support the suggestion that histamine may play a physiological role in the cochlea.

Staple-assisted laryngectomy for intractable aspiration

Staple-assisted laryngectomy is a unique method previously reported by Lukyanchenko to prevent wound contamination by using a stapling device for suturing pharyngeal defects in total laryngectomy. We have modified his method and applied it to prevent a postoperative pharyngocutaneous fistula in the treatment of intractable aspiration. In contrast to laryngeal cancer patients, a combined use of an intraluminal light to guide the dissection and laryngofissure to pull the epiglottis can be used to facilitate the use of the stapling device. For most patients with intractable aspiration who have significant malnutrition and drug-resistant bacterial colonization of the pharynx, this method offers certain advantages. This report describes our successful experience with this method in the management of patients with intractable aspiration.

Bumetanide-induced enlargement of the intercellular space in the stria vascularis requires an active Na+-K+-ATPase

OBJECTIVE

Loop diuretics such as bumetanide and furosemide cause an acute enlargement of the intrastrial space of the stria vascularis, with an associated decline in the endocochlear DC potential (EP). The aim of this study was to determine the role played by the Na+-K+-ATPase in the bumetanide-induced enlargement of the intrastrial space, and to examine the importance of the balance between the activities of the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter and the Na+-K+-ATPase to the physiological function of the stria vascularis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Albino guinea pigs were used in experiments involving perilymphatic perfusion, EP measurement and electron microscopy. The effects of bumetanide on the stria vascularis were examined following inhibition of the Na+-K+-ATPase by ouabain. Ouabain was administered to the perfusate and, when the EP reached 0 mV, both ouabain and bumetanide were administered.

RESULTS

Although there was no enlargement of the intrastrial space, vacuoles were apparent in marginal cells. The vacuolar change in marginal cells was similar to that caused by ouabain alone.

CONCLUSION

This study indicates that the enlargement of the intrastrial space requires not only the blockade of the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter but also normal activity of the Na+-K+-ATPase, and suggests that the bumetanide-induced enlargement of the intrastrial space resulted from the imbalance between the activities of the Na+-K+-2Cl- cotransporter and the Na+-K+-ATPase.

Production of 5,8,11-eicosatrienoic acid by a delta5 and delta6 desaturation activity-enhanced mutant derived from a delta12 desaturation activity-defective mutant of Mortierella alpina 1S-4

Enhanced production of 5,8,11-eicosatrienoic acid (Mead acid, 20:3omega9) was attained with a mutant fungus, Mortierella alpina JT-180, derived from delta12 desaturation activity-defective and delta6 desaturation activity-enhanced M. alpina M209-7. Production of 20:3omega9 by JT-180 was 1.4 times greater than that of the parent strain M209-7. This is thought to be due to its enhanced Delta5 desaturation activity, which was 3.3 times higher than that of M209-7. In both strains, 78.5-80.4% of the total lipids comprised triacylglycerol (TG), and 76.6-79.0% of 20:3omega9 was present in TG. Comparing the fatty acid compositions among various lipid species, the highest percentages (24.1-37.6%) of 20:3omega9 in total lipids were found in phosphatidylcholine. For optimization of 20:3omega9 production by JT-180, a glucose concentration of 4% in the culture medium and shifting of the growth temperature from 28 degrees C to 20 degrees C on the 2nd day were shown to be effective. Under optimal conditions, 20:3omega9 production by JT-180 reached 1.92 g/l culture medium in a 10-l jar fermentor (corresponding to 81.5 mg/g dry mycelia and 18.3% of total fatty acids), which is greater than that reported previously from M209-7 (1.65 g/l).

Monitoring of morphological development of the arachidonic-acid-producing filamentous microorganism Mortierella alpina

Morphological parameters, such as hyphal growth rate, tip formation rate, tip extension rate and branch formation rate, of Mortierella alpina have been measured using a flow-through chamber under 25 different combinations of carbon and nitrogen concentrations. Morphological parameters were influenced not by C/N ratio but by carbon concentration in the medium. Specific rates of hyphal growth and tip formation both remained constant at a low carbon concentration of 5 g/l. Tip extension rate from one tip was 60 microm tip(-1) h(-1) at a carbon concentration below 15 g/l, and the branching formation rate was independent of carbon concentration. Tip extension rate was a function of specific hyphal growth rate, which in turn was linearly proportional to the specific tip formation rate, demonstrating that tip extension rate was exponentially proportional to the specific tip formation rate. Branch formation rate per hyphal element remained unchanged even at tip extension rates lower than 60 microm tip(-1) h(-1) and at specific hyphal growth rates lower than 0.83 h(-1), but decreased drastically at higher rates of tip extension and hyphal growth.

Elevated summating potential in a case of posterior fossa meningioma was normalized by tumor removal

OBJECTIVE

A change in the summating potential (SP) obtained from a patient with posterior fossa meningioma associated with surgical removal of the tumor was reported and possible mechanisms underlying the change are discussed.

METHODS

This paper is a retrospective case review. A tertiary care referral center was the setting for the study. The authors present a 46-year-old female patient with posterior fossa meningioma, which was removed surgically. Pure tone audiometry and electrocochleography (ECoG) were performed before and after surgical removal of the tumor.

RESULTS

Pure tone audiogram showed normal hearing levels before surgery, and there were no apparent postoperative changes in hearing levels. ECoG showed a normal compound action potential (AP) level and an elevated SP/AP ratio (0.53) before surgery. After the tumor removal, the SP/AP ratio became 0.16, which was a normal level in our department.

CONCLUSIONS

The increased SP/AP ratio was normalized after surgery. Possible mechanisms underlying the increase in SP/AP ratio are an inhibition of the olivocochlear bundle function and endolymphatic hydrops.

Reduction in the endocochlear potential caused by Cs(+) in the perilymph can be explained by the five-compartment model of the stria vascularis

In an earlier publication (Takeuchi et al., Biophys. J. 79 (2000) 2572-2582), we proposed that K(+) channels in intermediate cells within the stria vascularis may play an essential role in the generation of the endocochlear potential (EP), and we presented an extended version of the five-compartment model of the stria vascularis. In search of further evidence supporting the five-compartment model, we studied the effects of Cs(+) added to the perilymph on guinea pig EP. Cs(+) is known as a competitive K(+) channel blocker. Both the scala tympani and the scala vestibuli of four cochlear turns were perfused at a flow rate of 10 microl/min, and the EP was recorded from the second cochlear turn. Cs(+) at 30 mM caused a biphasic change in the EP; the EP increased transiently from a control level of 89.6 mV to 94.8 mV within 10 min, and then decreased to a steady level of 24.5 mV within the next 40 min. We propose that the initial transient increase in the EP results from Cs(+)-mediated blockade of K(+) conductance in the basolateral membrane of hair cells, and that the subsequent EP decrease is due to effects of Cs(+) on the stria vascularis. We believe that Cs(+) in the perilymph is able to access the stria vascularis by being taken up by fibrocytes in the spiral ligament and then being transported to intermediate cells because it is known that Cs(+) is taken up via Na(+),K(+)-ATPase and that gap junctions connect fibrocytes in the spiral ligament to basal cells and basal cells to intermediate cells. To clarify the effect of intracellular Cs(+) on the electrophysiological properties of intermediate cells, these cells were dissociated from guinea pigs and studied by the whole-cell patch-clamp method. Intracellular Cs(+) depolarized intermediate cells in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, efflux of Cs(+) from the intermediate cell was much less than the efflux of K(+). Thus, Cs(+) may accumulate in the intermediate cell, which depolarizes the cell, which in turn decreases the EP. We conclude that the five-compartment model of the stria vascularis can explain the EP decrease caused by Cs(+) in the perilymph.

Promoting mechanism of menthol derivative, 1-O-ethyl-3-buthylcyclohexanol, on the percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen

Menthol derivatives were synthesized and evaluated for their promoting activity on the percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen and skin irritation in vivo, choosing O-ethylmenthol (MET) as the mother compound. The compound having a C-3 positionned n-butyl group (1-O-ethyl-3-n-buthylcyclohexanol, OEBC) indicated the most promoting activity and caused relatively little skin irritation. In order to understand enhancement mechanism of OEBC an in vitro permeation study of ketoprofen was performed. The time course of the cumulative amounts of drug permeated through the rat skin exhibited a linear relation after an initial lag time. This was analyzed in membrane diffusion model and the diffusion and partition parameters of ketoprofen were estimated. Both parameters were remarkably enhanced when a hydrogel containing a small quantity of OEBC (0.5%) was applied. Furthermore, to clarify the site of action of OEBC, we also investigated in vitro permeation study of ketoprofen employing different skins of state, reversed skin and stratum corneum stripped skin. When OEBC was added to the hydrogels which were applied to the reversed and stripped skins, almost no changes of the flux were observed compared with the control (without OEBC). These results suggested that the site of action of OEBC was stratum corneum. Morphological changes of the stratum corneum surface were microscopically observed with 0-2% OEBC. The spaces between the stratum corneum cells treated with 0.5-2% OEBC became extended and the shape of each cell became clear. This may suggest that the site of action of OEBC was the intercellular of stratum corneum. Furthermore, an electron spin resonance study was performed to investigate the effect of OEBC on the intercellular lipid bilayer fluidity of the stratum corneum and the rotational correlation times were calculated. 2,2,6,6-Tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) and 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPOL) were used as the spin label. In use of OEBC, the fluidity of TEMPO labeled the stratum corneum lipid increased as the addition of OEBC. The results suggested that OEBC promote the penetration of drugs by enhancing fluidity of the local lipid bilayers around TEMPO.

Simultaneous optimization based on artificial neural networks in ketoprofen hydrogel formula containing O-ethyl-3-butylcyclohexanol as percutaneous absorption enhancer

The influence of the amounts of additives including 1-O-ethyl-3-n-butylcyclohexanol (OEBC), diisopropyl adipate (DIA), and isopropanol (IPA) on the penetration rate (R(p)) of ketoprofen from hydrogels through rat skin in vivo was investigated. Skin irritation evoked by the application of hydrogels was evaluated based on a microscopic observation of skin cross-sections. Both optimization techniques incorporating an artificial neural network (ANN) and a second-order polynomial regression analysis were applied to the optimization of ketoprofen hydrogel formulations. Findings indicated that the R(p) and total irritation score (TIS) of the skin were predicted quantitatively as a function of quantities of OEBC, DIA, and IPA, employing ANN. In contrast, the prediction ability of the polynomial regression equation was somewhat poorer compared with that of ANN. The observed results of R(p) and TIS in the optimal formulation coincided well with the predictions in the simultaneous optimization technique incorporating ANN.

Mycelial pellet intrastructure and visualization of mycelia and intracellular lipid in a culture of Mortierella alpina

The intrastructure of mycelial pellets of Mortierella alpina, which accumulate fatty acids in mycelia, was visualized following labeling with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) and Nile red using fluorescence microscopy. The pellet was an ellipse shape, but its intrastructure was shaped as a doughnut with a cave inside. Using three-dimensional image analysis, it was shown that the lipid was produced on the edge of the pellet, which corresponded to the area where the mycelial density was high. The cavity ratio of the pellet section was determined on the basis of the FITC fluorescence intensity, and in the early culture stage remained at 0.2 in a 10-kl fermentor culture, but finally increased to 0.35. Mycelial pellet volume paralleled the cavity ratio. Application of the technique used here allows analysis of the intrastructure of fungal pellets and new types of fungal biological study.

Study on glutathionesulphonic acid as biodistribution promoter: concomitant use effect on verapamil hydrochloride and tegafur

The effect of glutathionesulphonic acid (N-(N-gamma-L-glutamyl-L-beta-sulphoalanylglycine, GSO3H), which is one of the minor metabolites of glutathione (GSH), on the pharmacokinetics of verapamil hydrochloride (verapamil x HCl) and tegafur was investigated in rats. GSO3H was concomitantly used as sodium salt (GSO3Na). No significant change by the concomitant use of GSO3Na was recognized in the pharmacokinetics parameters of verapamil x HCl and tegafur, and plasma elimination of both substances was not affected by GSO3Na. The tissue-to-plasma concentration ratio (Kp) of verapamil x HCl in the lung 5 min after its administration under concomitant use of GSO3Na rose significantly, however, this effect disappeared 120 min after administration. No significant change was recognized in other organs. On the other hand, a significant difference of Kp of tegafur under a steady state concentration of GSO3Na was not recognized in any organs. It seemed that the elevation of a lipid solubility (oil water partition coefficient) of verapamil x HCl by the concomitant use of GSO3Na was related to the increase of the Kp value of verapamil x HCl in the lung. The partition coefficient of GSO3Na itself decreased when it was used concomitantly with verapamil x HCl.

Evaluation and structure-activity relationship of synthesized cyclohexanol derivatives on percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen using artificial neural network

The effect of 35 newly synthesized O-ethylmenthol (MET) derivatives on percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen was investigated in rats. In order to understand the relationship between the structure of compounds and promoting activity (structure-activity relationship), an artificial neural network (ANN) was employed. In the in vivo percutaneous absorption study, male Wistar rats, weighing 160-180 g, were used. The apparent penetration rate (Rp) was estimated based on a pharmacokinetic model with a constant rate of penetration through the skin after a lag time. As an index of the promoting activity of each compound, an enhancement factor (Ef), defined as follows, was used: Ef=Rp(with enhancer)/Rp(without enhancer). An irritation evoked on rat skin was microscopically judged at the end of the in vivo percutaneous absorption experiment and evaluated as a total irritation score (TIS). Ef and TIS were selected as output variables to determine the ANN structure. Calculated logP, molecular weight, steric energy (SE), van der Waals area, van der Waals volume, dipole moment, highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) were used as factors to determine the structural nature of cyclohexanol derivatives. Among these parameters, logP, SE and LUMO significantly affected the prediction of Ef and TIS. The predicted values of Ef and TIS coincided well with in vivo percutaneous absorption experimental values. However, results observed with a linear regression method were poor compared with the ANN approach. The contribution index of logP was approximately 50% in the prediction of Ef, suggesting that lipophilicity among physicochemical properties contributes most of the promoting activity of these compounds.

The hypoglycemic effect of (7R*,9aS*)-7-phenyl-octahydroquinolizin-2-one in mice

(-)-Multiflorine (1), which was isolated from leguminous plants, produced a hypoglycemic effect when administered to mice with streptozotocin-induced diabetes. (-)-Multiflorine has an enaminone type conjugation on the A-ring, which is unusual in lupine alkaloids. Proceeding on the assumption that the A-B ring is responsible for the activity, several compounds bearing quinolizidin-2-one were synthesized and their hypoglycemic effects were examined. The hypoglycemic effect of (7R*,9aS*)-7-phenyl-octahydroquinolizin-2-one was approximately 4 times stronger than that of (-)-multiflorine measured by oral glucose tolerance test in normal mice. This result indicates that compounds possessing the quinolizidin-2-one ring system as the basic structure may be possible lead compounds for a new type of diabetes drug.

Lupin alkaloids from Chinese Maackia amurensis

Two new alkaloids were isolated together with 16 known lupin alkaloids from the leaves and stems of Chinese Maackia amurensis. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic methods to be (-)-6alpha-methoxylupanine and (-)-5alpha-(12-cytisinylmethyl)-6alpha-hydroxylupan ine and identified by comparison with synthetic samples. The structures of lupin alkaloids were also related to the geographical distributions of the Maackia plants.

Effect of synthesized cyclohexanol derivatives using L-menthol as a lead compound on the percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen

L-Menthol was selected as a lead compound to synthesize new candidates for percutaneous absorption enhancers. In a previous study, O-ethylmenthol (MET) was the most effective compound and caused relatively little skin irritation. To develop more effective compounds, mono- or disubstitute groups of cyclohexane with an O-ethyl group were synthesized. Some 35 compounds were synthesized and evaluated for their promoting activity and effect on skin. An in vivo percutaneous absorption study was performed using rats with hydrogel containing ketoprofen and each of the synthesized compounds. The plasma concentration of ketoprofen was determined after the application of hydrogel to the abdominal area of rats. The apparent penetration rate (R(p)) was estimated based on the pharmacokinetic model with a constant rate of penetration through the skin after the lag time. The 2-compartment model was applied to the data obtained from the iv administration. As an index to evaluate the promoting activity of each enhancer, an enhancement factor (E(f)) was defined as follows: E(f) = R(p) (with enhancer)/R(p) (without enhancer). Irritation to skin was pathologically evaluated. The treated area of rat abdominal skin was excised after the in vivo experiment using total irritation score (TIS). The compound having a C-3 positioned iso-butyl group on the chemical structure was the most effective and caused relatively little irritation among mono-substituted compounds. In the case of di-substituted compounds, all had the same effect as or a stronger effect than MET. Furthermore, the promoting activity almost corresponded to irritation. To estimate log P, one of the physicochemical properties of molecules, a computer program 'CAChe' was employed. The log P was calculated using the atom typing scheme. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the relations between E(f) or TIS and log P were parabolic. It was suggested that the optimum logP value reflects the promoting activity to enhance percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen.

Dielectric analysis for estimation of oil content in the mycelia of Mortierella alpina

The dielectric behavior of the filamentous fungi Mortierella alpina SAM2104 and 1S-4, which produce polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched oil in the mycelia, was investigated. During the cultivation carried out in a 10-kL fermentor for 12-15 days, the relative permittivity and conductivity of the broth were measured in the frequency range of 100 kHz to 30 MHz. The dielectric parameters, i.e., the amplitude of dielectric relaxation (Deltaepsilon) and the characteristic frequency (f(c)), were obtained by fitting the Cole-Cole equation to the observed dielectric relaxation, and the conductivity of the medium (kappa(a)) was also measured. The value of Deltaepsilon gradually increased from the second day through the end of cultivation, suggesting that volume fraction of the cell increased with oil accumulation. The conductivity of the cytoplasm (kappa(i)) was calculated from the experimental values of f(c) and kappa(a), using a theoretical equation based on an ellipsoidal cell model. As a result, good correlation between the calculated kappa(i) and the oil content was obtained. These findings indicate that dielectric analysis enables us to estimate the oil content in the mycelia of oleaginous fungi and also provides a useful tool for monitoring cell growth and for controlling the cultivation process.

Effects of dissolved oxygen on the morphology of an arachidonic acid production by Mortierella alpina 1S-4

Arachidonic acid (AA) production by Mortierella alpina 1S-4 was investigated using a 50-L fermentor. In order to optimize the dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration and to investigate the effect of DO on morphology, cultivation was carried out under constant DO at various levels in the range of 3-50 ppm. To maintain a DO concentration above 7 ppm, two methods, i.e., the oxygen-enrichment (OE) method (experimental range, 25-90% oxygen gas supplied) and the pressurization (PR) method (experimental range, 180-380 kPa headspace pressure), were used. As a result, the optimum DO concentration range was found to be 10-15 ppm. In this optimum DO concentration range, the AA yield was enhanced about 1.6-fold compared to that obtained at 7 ppm DO, and there was no difference in the AA productivity between the OE and PR methods. When the DO concentration was maintained at 20-50 ppm using the OE method, the morphology changed from filaments to pellets, and the AA yield decreased drastically because of stress due to the limited mass transfer through the pellet wall. When the DO concentration was maintained at 15-20 ppm using the PR method, the morphology did not change, and the AA yield decreased gradually.

kappa-Opioid receptor-mediated antinociceptive effects of stereoisomers and derivatives of (+)-matrine in mice

The antinociceptive effects of seven matrine-type lupin alkaloids were examined using the acetic acid-induced abdominal contraction test (the writhing test) and the tail-flick test in mice. (+)-Allomatrine, the C-6 epimer of (+)-matrine, produced the antinociceptive effect at 1/3 potency of (+)-matrine or pentazocine. It was demonstrated that the antinociceptive effects of (+)-allomatrine were mediated through the activation of kappa-opioid receptors, while the antinociceptive effect of (+)-matrine was mediated by both mu- and kappa-opioid receptors. (-)-Sophoridine, the C-6 epimer of (+)-matrine, (+)-sophoranol, (-)-14 beta-hydroxymatrine and (+)-matrine N-oxide, which possess a hydrophilic group, and (-)-sophocarpine and (-)-sophoramine having a double bond(s) did not show significant antinociceptive activity.

Thiomenthol derivatives as novel percutaneous absorption enhancers

Thiomenthol derivatives were synthesized and their promoting activity on the percutaneous absorption of ketoprofen from hydrogels was evaluated in rats. The apparent penetration rate (Rp) of ketoprofen absorbed from the hydrogel was estimated by the pharmacokinetic model derived under the assumption of a constant penetration rate through the skin after a lag time. As an index of promoting activity of thiomenthol derivatives, an enhancement factor (Ef) was defined as the ratio of the Rp value with enhancer to the value obtained with the control not containing enhancer. Skin irritancy evoked by these derivatives was investigated microscopically by using a cross-section of the excised skin onto which ketoprofen hydrogel was applied. Total irritation score (TIS) was estimated by summation of each irritation score in several parts of the skin. The physicochemical parameters of thiomenthol derivatives such as a partition coefficient (log P) and a steric energy were calculated and the quantitative relationships between these parameters and the Ef values or TIS values were investigated on the basis of multiple regression analysis. As a result, a parabolic relationship between log P and Ef was noted. A similar relationship was also observed in the case of TIS.

Effect of nitrogen source on mycelial morphology and arachidonic acid production in cultures of mortierella alpina

The effects of nitrogen source on arachidonic acid (AA) production and morphological changes during the culture of Mortierella alpina were investigated using an image analysis system. When yeast extract, gluten meal, or corn steep liquor was used, a circular pellet morphology was obtained. However, when Pharmamedia, fish meal, or soybean meal was used, M. alpina formed radial filamentous mycelia. The radial filamentous area in the case of soybean meal was 75% of the total mycelial area. In a jar fermentor culture, M. alpina morphology varied with the cultivation period: (i) at 0-6 h culture, the inoculated pellet-like mycelia were adapted to the new environment, (ii) at 6 h-1 d culture, filamentous mycelia grew exponentially which yielded a feather-like morphology, (iii) at 1-2 d culture, the filamentous mycelia became disentangled as a result of the mechanical agitation; consequently, the proportion of filamentous mycelia was increased, (iv) at 2-4 d culture, mycelia showed stationary growth, but the AA concentration increased rapidly, and (v) at 4-6 d culture, hyphae grew thick radially with the AA concentration continuing to increase gradually. In the case of the cultures with feather-like morphology obtained using soybean meal, the AA yield was 0.14 g/g dry cell weight, which was two times higher than that in cultures grown using yeast extract. These results suggest that the feather-like morphology of culture of M. alpina is suitable for AA production.

Image analysis of morphological change during arachidonic acid production by Mortierella alpina 1S-4

The changes in mycelial morphology during arachidonic acid (AA) production by Mortierella alpina 1S-4 were investigated using an image analysis system. Cultivation was performed in a 10-kl fermentor, and the culture broth was separated into two fractions by sieving (0.5 mm aperture size): the filament fraction (F-fraction, <0.5 mm), and the pellet fraction (P-fraction, >0.5 mm). The effect of the mycelial morphology in each fraction on AA production was analyzed. As a result, a product distribution in the culture broth wherein the AA content in the mycelia of the P-fraction was observed to be higher than that in the mycelia of the F-fraction throughout the cultivation. Morphological analysis of the P-fraction revealed that the hairy pellets became smooth because the mycelia on the pellet surface were shaved off; some pellets were broken and reduced in size. The shaved-off mycelia from the hairy pellets surface moved into the F-fraction and aggregated there. From the above findings, it was likely that the low AA content in the F-fraction was due to mycelial damage during the cultivation. In addition, the morphology of the hairy pellets was found to contribute to an increase in the viscosity of culture broth.

[Surgical treatment of T3N0M0 non-small cell lung cancer]

From January 1982 to June 1995, 45 patients underwent operation at our department for T3N0M0 non-small cell lung cancer. Tumors invaded chest wall in 38 patients (parietal pleura in 17, subpleural fat tissue in 10, and rib in 11), diaphragm in 3, mediastinum in 3, and pericardium in 1. Extrapleural dissection was performed in 17 patients and en bloc resection of chest wall and lung was performed in 21. Complete resection was possible in 43 patients (96%). Operative mortality was 2.2%. The actuarial overall 5-year survival rate was 63% for the patients with parietal pleura invasion, 45% for those with subpleural invasion, 45% for those with rib invasion, and 56% for those with diaphragm, mediastinal pleura or pericardial invasion. Recurrence at the resected margin was observed in 5 patients with chest wall invasion (subpleural tissue in 3, rib in 2) and 1 with diaphragmatic invasion. In conclusion, we recommend an en bloc resection of the chest wall with enough surgical margin for peripheral tumors firmly adherent to the parietal pleura.

Antinociceptive effects of (+)-matrine in mice

The antinociceptive potency of matridin-15-one ((+)-matrine) was examined using the acetic acid-induced abdominal contraction test and the tail-flick test in mice. (+)-Matrine, at doses of 1 to 10 mg/kg, s.c., produced a marked and dose-dependent inhibition of the number of acetic acid-induced abdominal contractions in mice. The antinociceptive effect of (+)-matrine in the acetic acid-induced abdominal contraction test in mice was identical to that of pentazocine. Indeed, there was no significant difference in the ED50 (mg/kg with 95% confidence limits) values for the inhibition of acetic acid-induced abdominal contractions between (+)-matrine (4.7 (4.1-5.3)) and pentazocine (3.3 (2.2-5.0)). Furthermore, in the tail-flick assay, (+)-matrine at doses of 10 and 30 mg/kg, s.c., again produced a dose-dependent antinociceptive effect. When nor-binaltorphimine (20 mg/kg, s.c.), a selective kappa-opioid receptor antagonist, was administered 3 h before treatment with (+)-matrine, the antinociceptive effect of (+)-matrine was markedly antagonized. Furthermore, the antinociceptive effect of (+)-matrine was partially antagonized by pretreatment with beta-funaltrexamine, a selective mu-opioid receptor antagonist. Naltrindole, a selective delta-opioid receptor antagonist, had no effect on the antinociceptive effect of (+)-matrine. In conclusion, (+)-matrine produced an antinociceptive effect mainly through the activation of kappa-opioid receptors and partially through mu-opioid receptors.

Induction of c-fos protooncogene transcription and apoptosis by delta 12-prostaglandin J2 in human Pl-21 myeloid leukemia and RC-K8 pre-B lymphoma cells

delta 12-prostaglandin J2 (PGJ2) is a dehydration product of PGD2 and thought to be the most potent antitumor agent among prostaglandin compounds. We examine the cytotoxic effects of PGJ2 on the cell growth of leukemia/lymphoma cells. PGJ2 inhibited the growth of both human PL-21 myeloid leukemia and RC-K8 pre-B lymphoma cells in culture in a dose-dependent manner with fragmentation of nucleus and formation of apoptotic body. Agarose gel electrophoresis revealed DNA ladder formation in the cells treated with PGJ2. Furthermore, PGJ2 induced a rapid and transient expression of apoptosis-related protooncogene, c-fos, in both cells. The gene transcriptional rate was remarkably increased approximately 3.3-fold in PGJ2 treated cells, but the stability of c-fos mRNA was not significantly changed. Inhibition of de novo protein synthesis with cycloheximide increased c-fos mRNA stability but not abrogated PGJ2-induced c-fos transcription. These data suggest that PGJ2 can induce apoptosis of human leukemia/lymphoma cells and the rapid activation of c-fos protooncogene transcription in which de novo protein synthesis is not required.

The amino acid sequences of two alpha chains of hemoglobins from Komodo dragon Varanus komodoensis and phylogenetic relationships of amniotes

To elucidate phylogenetic relationships among amniotes and the evolution of alpha globins, hemoglobins were analyzed from the Komodo dragon (Komodo monitor lizard) Varanus komodoensis, the world's largest extant lizard, inhabiting Komodo Islands, Indonesia. Four unique globin chains (alpha A, alpha D, beta B, and beta C) were isolated in an equal molar ratio by high performance liquid chromatography from the hemolysate. The amino acid sequences of two alpha chains were determined. The alpha D chain has a glutamine at E7 as does an alpha chain of a snake, Liophis miliaris, but the alpha A chain has a histidine at E7 like the majority of hemoglobins. Phylogenetic analyses of 19 globins including two alpha chains of Komodo dragon and ones from representative amniotes showed the following results: (1) The a chains of squamates (snakes and lizards), which have a glutamine at E7, are clustered with the embryonic alpha globin family, which typically includes the alpha D chain from birds; (2) birds form a sister group with other reptiles but not with mammals; (3) the genes for embryonic and adult types of alpha globins were possibly produced by duplication of the ancestral alpha gene before ancestral amniotes diverged, indicating that each of the present amniotes might carry descendants of the two types of alpha globin genes; (4) squamates first split off from the ancestor of other reptiles and birds.

Isolation and amino acid sequence of a cystatin-type cysteine proteinase inhibitor from bovine hoof

A low molecular mass cysteine proteinase inhibitor was found and isolated from bovine hoof. Purification of the inhibitor to homogeneity was performed by carboxymethyl-papain-sepharose affinity and DE-52 ion exchange chromatographies. From 15 g of bovine hoof, 0.25 mg of cysteine proteinase inhibitor was isolated. It had 100 amino acid residues and molecular mass of 11 406 Da, and its N-terminus was blocked. The amino acid sequence of the inhibitor demonstrated high similarity with that of the family 1 group, especially bovine thymus-derived cystatin. Thus, in summary, bovine hoof contains a cystatin-type cysteine proteinase inhibitor, presumably a family 1 cystatin.

Inhibitory effect of a synthetic prostacyclin analogue, beraprost, on urokinase-type plasminogen activator expression in RC-K8 human lymphoma cells

Plasminogen activation by urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) is implicated in tumor invasion and metastasis by the breakdown of extracellular matrix. We have recently demonstrated the inhibitory effect of cAMP on uPA gene transcription in RC-K8 human lymphoma cells (Biochim Biophys Acta 1268: 293-9, 1995). Prostacyclin produced by endothelial cells is shown to increase cellular cAMP levels by activating adenylate cyclase. We, therefore, examined the effect of a stable analogue of prostacyclin, Beraprost, on uPA production in RC-K8 cells. uPA activity gradually increased in the conditioned medium with time. Beraprost (0.1 nM-1.0 microM) inhibited uPA accumulation in a dose-dependent manner without affecting cell viability. Fibrinzymography demonstrated that high and low molecular forms of uPA were present in the conditioned medium and that after Beraprost-treatment all forms of uPA decreased and no PA/PA inhibitor complex was present. Northern blot analysis revealed that after exposure to Beraprost, uPA mRNA levels increased transiently and then rapidly decreased to below control levels. Treatment with Beraprost resulted in a rapid activation of cellular cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKA). Beraprost completely negated uPA gene expression induced by phorbol myristate acetate, an activator of protein kinase C (PKC). These results suggest that Beraprost inhibits uPA production by suppressing uPA gene expression through the PKA pathway and that PKA-mediated signals are dominant in uPA gene expression as compared to those medicated by PKC. This inhibition of uPA expression by a prostacyclin analogue may be an important fact to explain the mechanism of anti-metastatic effects of prostacyclin.

Characterization of the constituent polypeptides of the extracellular hemoglobin from Lumbricus terrestris: heterogeneity and discovery of a new linker chain L4

The extracellular hemoglobin of Lumbricus terrestris comprises four oxygen binding chains, a, b, c, d, and three linker chains L1, L2, L3 as major components. A stoichiometry of the whole molecule has been proposed on the basis of these chains, with a total number of 216 chains: forty-eight chains of each oxygen binding chain and eight molecules of each linker chain. We have isolated additional minor components by HPLC and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. The following biochemical characterizations have been made. (i) All components so far reported, the heme-containing chains a, b, c, d, and linker chains L1, L2, L3 and a new minor polypeptide, L4, were mapped on a two-dimensional gel. Their estimated isoelectric points were between 4.7 and 5.9. (ii) The sequences of several peptides including the unique N-terminal peptide from linker L4 show that it can be considered as a duplicated gene product with a similar mass. (iii) Chain d2 was isolated and found to correspond to the minor chain previously pointed out by Shishikura et al. (J. Biol. Chem. 262 (1987) 3123-3131). (iv) The major chain d1 has serine at position 7 from the N-terminus. This is not consistent with previously reported glycine (Shishikura et al., J. Biol. Chem. 262 (1987) 3123-3131).

The enhancement of specific antibody production rate in glucose- and glutamine-controlled fed-batch culture

The concentration effects of certain amino acids (Asp, Ile, Leu, Lys, Met, Val, Phe and Gln which were highly consumed during cultivation), and glucose on cell growth and antibody productivity were investigated using dish culture. From these experiments, it was found that only glutamine enrichment enhanced the specific antibody production rate. The other amino acids described above did not affect either the specific growth rate or specific antibody production rate. Thus we investigated the quantitative effects of glutamine concentration in the range of 0.4-33.3 mmol.l-1 on kinetic parameters in fed-batch culture which kept both glucose and glutamine concentration constant. As a result the specific growth rate decreased with increase in glutamine concentration in the range larger than 20 mmol.l-1. The specific antibody production rate had a maximum value at about 25 mmol.l-1 glutamine concentration.

Enhancing effect of piperidone derivatives on the percutaneous absorption of indomethacin

Following our previous demonstration that Azone and 2-n-alkylcyclohexanones enhanced the percutaneous absorption of indomethacin, six 1-n-alkylpiperidones were prepared and examined as potential transdermal absorption enhancers. In vitro skin experiments showed that indomethacin absorption enhancement was related to the lipophilicity of the enhancer, and that 1-n-dodecyl piperidone caused the greatest enhancement. The structure of this piperidone is similar to that of Azone, and both compounds had similar lipophilicity and drug absorption enhancement activity. We suggest that they act in the same way by decreasing diffusional resistance in the stratum corneum, and so modifying the hard barrier of the stratum corneum.

Promoting effect of 2-n-alkylcyclohexanones on the percutaneous absorption of indomethacin

We previously evaluated the promoting effects of 2-tert-butylcyclohexanone and its analogues on the percutaneous absorption of indomethacin (IMC), and showed that the 2-position of the cyclohexanone ring plays an important role in drug permeability through the skin. The present study investigates the in vitro penetration enhancement of IMC by five 2-n-alkylcyclohexanone derivatives. 2-n-Octylcyclohexanone was the most effective enhancer, but the other four enhancers also had significant promoting actions on skin permeability of IMC. Maximum absorption enhancement was associated with a defined range of enhancer lipophilicity. We propose that the enhancer penetrates into the stratum corneum and improves skin permeability of a drug by dissolving some of the hard lipid components or modifying the dense lipid stratum corneum.

Expression of pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor in various cancer cells

We demonstrated by immunoperoxidase staining that a half of cancer tissues surgically resected contained pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor-immunoreactive cells. Immunoreactivity in cancer tissues was detected in both early and advanced cancers. Human cell lines (BxPC-3, MIA PaCa-2, PANC-1, KATO-III, COLO 201, SW 403, WIHOVCAR 3, HeLa Ohio, A549 and SK X HEp-1) expressed pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor.