Preservation of dendritic D2 receptor transmission in substantia nigra dopamine neurons with age

Substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopamine neurons are required for voluntary movement and reward learning, and advanced age is associated with motor and cognitive decline. In the midbrain, D2-type dopamine receptors located at dendrodendritic synapses between dopamine neurons control cell firing through G protein-activated potassium (GIRK) channels. We previously showed that aging disrupts dopamine neuron pacemaker firing in mice, but only in males. Here we show that the amplitude of D2-receptor inhibitory postsynaptic currents (D2-IPSCs) are moderately reduced in aged male mice. Local application of dopamine revealed a reduction in the amplitude of the D2-receptor currents in old males compared to young, pointing to a postsynaptic mechanism. Further experiments indicated that reduced D2 receptor signaling was not due to a general reduction in GIRK channel currents or degeneration of the dendritic arbor. Kinetic analysis showed no differences in D2-IPSC shape in old versus young mice or between sexes. Potentiation of D2-IPSCs by corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) was also not affected by age, indicating preservation of one mechanism of plasticity. These findings have implications for understanding dopamine transmission in aging, and reduced D2 receptor inhibition could contribute to increased susceptibility of males to SNc dopamine neuron degeneration in Parkinson's disease.

QSAR model to predict Kp,uu,brain with a small dataset, incorporating predicted values of related parameter

The unbound brain-to-plasma concentration ratio (K_p,uu,brain) is a parameter that indicates the extent of central nervous system penetration. Pharmaceutical companies build prediction models because many experiments are required to obtain K_p,uu,brain. However, the lack of data hinders the design of an accurate prediction model. To construct a quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) model with a small dataset of K_p,uu,brain, we investigated whether the prediction accuracy could be improved by incorporating software-predicted brain penetration-related parameters (BPrPs) as explanatory variables for pharmacokinetic parameter prediction. We collected 88 compounds with experimental K_p,uu,brain from various official publications. Random forest was used as the machine learning model. First, we developed prediction models using only structural descriptors. Second, we verified the predictive accuracy of each model with the predicted values of BPrPs incorporated in various combinations. Third, the K_p,uu,brain of the in-house compounds was predicted and compared with the experimental values. The prediction accuracy was improved using five-fold cross-validation (RMSE = 0.455, r² = 0.726) by incorporating BPrPs. Additionally, this model was verified using an external in-house dataset. The result suggested that using BPrPs as explanatory variables improve the prediction accuracy of the K_p,uu,brain QSAR model when the available number of datasets is small.

Characterization of Dental Epithelial Progenitor Cells Derived from Cervical-loop Epithelium in a Rat Lower Incisor

Dental epithelial progenitor cells differentiate into various cell types during development of tooth germs. To study this mechanism, we produced immortalized dental epithelial progenitor cells derived from the cervical-loop epithelium of a rat lower incisor. The expression patterns of cytokeratin 14, nerve growth factor receptor p75, amelogenin, Notch2, and alkaline phosphatase were examined by immnohistochemistry in both lower and higher cell densities. The patterns of each were compared in the dental epithelium of rat lower incisors. The results demonstrated that these cells could produce ameloblast lineage cells, stratum intermedium cells, stellate reticulum, and outer enamel epithelium. Furthermore, fibroblast growth factor 10 stimulated proliferation of dental progenitor cells and subsequently increased the number of cells expressing alkaline phosphatase. These results suggest that fibroblast growth factor 10 plays a role in coupling mitogenesis of the cervical-loop cells and the production of stratum intermedium cells in rat incisors.

Liver-Regenerative Transplantation: Regrow and Reset

Liver transplantation, either a partial liver from a living or deceased donor or a whole liver from a deceased donor, is the only curative therapy for severe end-stage liver disease. Only one-third of those on the liver transplant waiting list will be transplanted, and the demand for livers is projected to increase 23% in the next 20 years. Consequently, organ availability is an absolute constraint on the number of liver transplants that can be performed. Regenerative therapies aim to enhance liver tissue repair and regeneration by any means available (cell repopulation, tissue engineering, biomaterials, proteins, small molecules, and genes). Recent experimental work suggests that liver repopulation and engineered liver tissue are best suited to the task if an unlimited availability of functional induced pluripotent stem (iPS)-derived liver cells can be achieved. The derivation of iPS cells by reprogramming cell fate has opened up new lines of investigation, for instance, the generation of iPS-derived xenogeneic organs or the possibility of simply inducing the liver to reprogram its own hepatocyte function after injury. We reviewed current knowledge about liver repopulation, generation of engineered livers and reprogramming of liver function. We also discussed the numerous barriers that have to be overcome for clinical implementation.

Measurement and comparison of individual external doses of high-school students living in Japan, France, Poland and Belarus-the 'D-shuttle' project

Twelve high schools in Japan (of which six are in Fukushima Prefecture), four in France, eight in Poland and two in Belarus cooperated in the measurement and comparison of individual external doses in 2014. In total 216 high-school students and teachers participated in the study. Each participant wore an electronic personal dosimeter 'D-shuttle' for two weeks, and kept a journal of his/her whereabouts and activities. The distributions of annual external doses estimated for each region overlap with each other, demonstrating that the personal external individual doses in locations where residence is currently allowed in Fukushima Prefecture and in Belarus are well within the range of estimated annual doses due to the terrestrial background radiation level of other regions/countries.

P-selectin-dependent adhesion of human cancer-cells - requirement for coexpression of a psgl-1-like core protein and the glycosylation process for sialosyl-le(x) or sialosyl-le(a)

We studied the cell surface expression of sialosyl-Le(x) (SLe(x)) and sialosyl-Le(a) (SLe(a)) and its correlation with E-selectin- and P-selectin-dependent cell adhesion, employing 12 human cancer cell lines derived from solid tumors and 2 myelogenic leukemic cell lines, HL60 and U937. Among all the cell lines tested, there was a clear correlation between E-selectin-dependent adhesion and degree of SLe(x) and SLe(a) expression. None of the cell lines derived from solid tumors bound significantly to P-selectin, but leukemic cell lines HL60 and U937 bound strongly to P-selectin. The cDNA clone encoding P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) was transfected into colonic cancer HRT18 and lung cancer PC3 cells, which express SLe(x) and SLe(a) but normally do not bind to P-selectin, although they do bind to E-selectin. The resulting transfectants bound strongly to P-selectin and equally well to E-selectin. A crude mucin fraction extracted from pooled human colonic cancer tissue bound to E-selectin but not to P-selectin. We conclude that tumor cell adhesion to P-selectin is highly dependent on expression of a specific core protein which appropriately assembles a specific carbohydrate to present to P-selectin. In contrast, E-selectin binds promiscuously to various types of SLe(x) and SLe(a) epitopes presented at the cell surface through N-linked, O-linked, or lipid-linked structures.

Insulinoma may mask the existence of Type 1 diabetes

BACKGROUND

Insulinoma is a tumour of insulin-producing cells of the pancreas and is known to be one of the causes of hypoglycaemia. Usually, appropriate removal of the insulinoma results in normalization of blood glucose levels. However, we found novel cases of insulinoma, in which hyperglycaemia developed soon after resection of the insulinoma.

CASE REPORT

We encountered two patients with repeated hypoglycaemia caused by insulinoma. Following removal of the insulinoma, unanticipated hyperglycaemia was observed in both patients. Thereafter, their blood tests revealed low levels of serum C-peptide and high titres of anti-glutamic acid decarboxylase antibody, indicating concomitant Type 1 diabetes. Indeed, histological examination of the resected specimen revealed that one patient showed insulitis in non-tumorous pancreatic tissue in which β-cells had already disappeared. Moreover, inflammatory cells infiltrated the insulinoma, as if it were insulitis of Type 1 diabetes, suggesting the existence of anti-islet autoimmunity.

CONCLUSION

These are first cases of insulinoma associated with underlying Type 1 diabetes. Physicians should be aware of the possibility that insulinoma may mask Type 1 diabetes, and measurement of anti-islet autoantibodies may be helpful to find underlying Type 1 diabetes, such as in these cases. It is pathologically interesting that the immune cell infiltration into insulinoma may be suggestive of anti-islet autoimmunity.

HPV16 E6-mediated stabilization of ErbB2 in neoplastic transformation of human cervical keratinocytes

Whether ErbB2 receptor tyrosine kinase contributes to cervical cancer is controversial. We have examined the effects of E6 and E7 genes of human papillomaviruses type 16 (HPV-16) on ErbB2 expression in primary human cervical keratinocytes (HCK) immortalized with hTERT (HCK1T). In E6-positive cells (HCK1T-E6 and HCK1T-E6E7), ErbB2 expression levels increased with the cell density. HCK1T-E6E7 showed impaired contact inhibition and anchorage-independent growth in soft agar which were abrogated with introduction of ErbB2-specific short hairpin RNA (shRNA) or an ErbB2 specific inhibitor AG825. Furthermore, increased ErbB2 expression was also observed in HPV16 positive cervical cancer cell lines and this was diminished by introduction of HPV16E6- or E6AP-shRNA. At post-confluence cell densities, ErbB2 protein was stabilized in the presence of E6 whereas increased ErbB2 expression was not obvious with E6 mutants incapable of degrading p53. Furthermore, introduction of p53-shRNA to HCK1T resulted in increased ErbB2 protein stability, indicating possible ErbB2 regulation through p53. Finally, we showed that tumor formation of ErbB2-shRNA introduced SiHa cells were almost abolished. Taken together, these data indicate an important role of ErbB2 regulation by HPV16 E6 in oncogenic transformation of human cervical keratinocytes.

STAT3 activation via interleukin 6 trans-signalling contributes to ileitis in SAMP1/Yit mice

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

SAMP1/Yit mice spontaneously develops intestinal inflammation. Previously, we demonstrated that the signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-3/suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS)-3 pathway is pivotal in human inflammatory bowel disease. In our studies in SAMP1/Yit mice, the aim was to investigate whether STAT3 activation contributes to ileitis and to examine the therapeutic effects of this signal blockade.

METHODS

Intestinal expression of phospho-STAT3 in SAMP1/Yit mice and control AKR/J mice was examined by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. SOCS3 and interleukin 6 (IL-6) mRNA were determined by northern blotting and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, respectively. We also examined the effects of intravenously injected hyper-IL-6, an IL-6/soluble IL-6 receptor fusion protein, and of soluble gp130-Fc, a specific inhibitor of soluble IL-6 receptor signalling, on STAT3 phosphorylation and disease severity in SAMP1/Yit mice.

RESULTS

Phospho-STAT3 was expressed strongly during the disease course in SAMP1/Yit mice but only transiently in AKR/J mice. Phospho-STAT3 was localised to epithelial and mononuclear cells in the diseased intestine of SAMP1/Yit mice. SOCS3 as well as IL-6 mRNAs were expressed in affected intestine. Administration of hyper-IL-6 caused disease exacerbation and enhancement of STAT3 phosphorylation. In contrast, soluble gp130-Fc administration ameliorated the disease and suppressed STAT3 phosphorylation.

CONCLUSION

STAT3 signalling is critical in the development of intestinal inflammation in SAMP1/Yit mice. Blockade of this signalling pathway by soluble gp130-Fc may have therapeutic effects in inflammatory bowel disease.

Activation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signalling in experimentally induced gastric lesions in rats

The c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) participates in intracellular signalling cascades that mediate inflammatory responses. Therefore, the JNK signalling may be involved in gastric injury and inhibition of this pathway may form the basis of a new strategy for the treatment of gastric injury. The aim of this study was to determine whether JNK participates in the formation of gastric lesions in an experimental model. Acute gastric injury was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by intragastric administration of 100% ethanol. The amount of phospho-JNK in the rat stomach was determined using immunohistochemistry and Western analysis. Animals received subcutaneous injections of a specific JNK inhibitor SP600125 or vehicle and the extent of mucosal damage in the stomach was determined. Western analysis revealed early phosphorylation of JNK and, to a lesser extent, p38 as well as late phosphorylation of the p42/44 extracellular signal-related kinases during the development of gastric lesions. JNK was phosphorylated in epithelial cells and in occasional mononuclear cells present at lesion sites. These cells were rarely found in samples from control specimens. Treatment with SP600125 significantly reduced the extent of gastric lesions. These findings indicate that experimental gastric injury is associated with activation of the JNK signalling pathway, and also suggest that JNK inhibitors may play a role in the treatment of gastric injury in humans.

Diminished cytokine signalling against bacterial components in mononuclear leucocytes from ulcerative colitis patients after leukocytapheresis

Infiltration by circulating inflammatory cells is a prominent local inflammatory feature of ulcerative colitis (UC). Several trials have suggested that leukocytapheresis by filtration can benefit patients with active UC. We investigated how this therapy might modulate the inflammatory response. Patients with active UC who were beginning repeated filtration leukocytapheresis were studied. Mononuclear cell preparations were obtained from blood before and after the first treatment, and expression of cytokine signalling components and the cell-proliferative response were analysed in vitro. Leukocytapheresis reduced lipopolysaccharide-induced production of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin-1, -6, -8 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha, P < 0.05 for all) and activation of intracellular signalling components (nuclear factor-kappaB, mitogen-activated protein kinases, and signal transducer and activator of transcription-3), as well as surface expression of toll-like receptor-4 (P < 0.05) in mononuclear cells. The therapy also reduced the cell-proliferative response by mononuclear cells stimulated with sonicated bacterial preparations from autologous intestine (P < 0.05). These results indicate that activated mononuclear cells in the peripheral blood of patients with active UC are removed by leukocytapheresis and replaced by cells with a lower activation status. This replacement may partly explain the therapeutic benefit.

Cementum matrix formation in vivo by cultured dental follicle cells

Dental follicle is the fibrous tissue that surrounds the developing tooth germ, and it is believed to contain progenitors for cementoblasts, periodontal ligament cells, and osteoblasts. In this study, we report the presence of cementoblast progenitors in cultures of bovine dental follicle cells and demonstrate their differentiation capacity. Bovine dental follicle cells (BDFC) obtained from tooth germs by collagenase digestion were compared with bovine alveolar bone osteoblasts (BAOB) and bovine periodontal ligament cells (BPDL) in vitro and in vivo. In culture, BDFC exhibited low levels of alkaline phosphatase activity and expressed mRNA for osteopontin (OP) and type I collagen (COLI), as well as low levels of osteocalcin (OC) mRNA. In contrast, cultured BAOB exhibited high alkaline phosphatase activity levels and expressed mRNA for OC, OP, COLI, and bone sialoprotein (BSP). To elucidate the differentiation capacity of BDFC in vivo, cells were transplanted into severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice and analyzed after 4 weeks. Transplanted BDFC formed fibrous tissue and cementum-like matrix, which stained positive for anti-cementum attachment protein (CAP) monoclonal antibody (3G9), and expressed mRNA for OC, OP, COLI, and BSP. On the other hand, transplanted BAOB formed bone-like matrix, but were negative for anti-CAP monoclonal antibody. The BPDL transplants formed fibrous tissue that contained a few cells expressing CAP. These results indicate that cementoblast progenitors are present in BDFC, which can provide a useful model for investigating the molecular mechanisms of cementogenesis.

Development of a multilayer Fresnel zone plate for high-energy synchrotron radiation X-rays by DC sputtering deposition

Hard X-ray microscopy with high spatial resolution (<or=0.1 microm) using a high-energy and high-brilliance X-ray microprobe is expected to be a promising technology for various types of analysis, imaging etc. in materials science, biology and medicine. A multilayer Fresnel zone plate (FZP) could be a promising approach to focusing optics in the high-energy X-ray region (>or=20 keV) because a large thickness (aspect ratio) can be available. Various types of multilayer FZPs have been fabricated by DC sputtering deposition. Their focusing characteristics have been evaluated at the high-brilliance undulator beamline BL47XU of SPring-8. An optical system using a Cu/Al multilayer FZP (with an outermost zone width of 0.25 microm) as the focusing optics fabricated by the optimum deposition condition with precise film (zone) thickness control has attained an almost diffraction-limited microbeam of 0.3-0.35 microm at 8.9 keV. A line-and-space resolution test pattern has been observed: fine structures up to 0.2 microm were clearly observed in the measured image. This FZP has been working since 1995, keeping good focusing characteristics. It can be said from these results that a spatial resolution better than 0.1 microm in the high-energy X-ray region is in prospect by the development of a multilayer FZP with a narrower outermost zone width in the near future.

Enhanced GM3 expression, associated with decreased invasiveness, is induced by brefeldin A in bladder cancer cells

We reported previously that non-invasive bladder cancer expresses high level of GM3 ganglioside, whereas invasive tumors have low levels. Since glycosphingolipid synthesis in Golgi is modified greatly by a macrocyclic lactone isolated from fungi, brefeldin A (BFA), we studied effects of BFA on expression of glycosphingolipids and on invasiveness of bladder cancer cell lines. Only GM3 synthesis in invasive tumors was greatly enhanced upon treatment with BFA; synthesis of other glycosphingolipids with lacto-series type 2 or globo-series structure in both invasive and non-invasive tumors was not changed. Invasiveness of bladder cancer cells was greatly decreased in association with the great increase of GM3 synthesis induced by BFA treatment. Level of sialyl-Lex expressed in invasive cell line YTS1, which provides the adhesive property of the cells to E-selectin, was unchanged upon BFA treatment. All the bladder cancer cell lines, regardless of invasiveness, highly express tetraspanin CD9. GM3 has been implicated as a co-factor of CD9 in control of tumor cell motility. Down-regulation of CD9 is associated with metastatic properties of tumor cells and survival of patients with colonic cancer. Therefore, enhanced synthesis of GM3 induced by BFA, causing decrease of invasiveness in bladder cancer, is ascribable to the capability of GM3 to interconnect integrin with CD9, in analogy to colonic cancer and perhaps many other types of cancer.

Expression of cementum-derived attachment protein in bovine tooth germ during cementogenesis

Cementum-derived attachment protein (CAP) is a 56 kDa collagenous protein that promotes attachment of mesenchymal cells. Previous studies have shown that the presence of CAP is restricted to cementum in adult human tissues. In this study, we report generation of a monoclonal antibody against CAP and its use for the investigation of CAP in developing bovine tooth germs. Mice were immunized with CAP purified from bovine cementum, and a monoclonal antibody, 3G9, was produced. Immunohistochemical staining of bovine tooth germ at root forming stage using 3G9 antibody showed that the tissue distribution of CAP expression was limited to cementum matrix and cementoblasts during cementogenesis. Alveolar bone did not stain with the 3G9 antibody, whereas anti-type I collagen stained positively. CAP was purified from bovine tooth germs with immunoaffinity purification using the 3G9 antibody. Examination of the immunoaffinity-purified fraction showed that CAP existed in tooth germ as a 65 kDa protein. The protein was susceptible to bacterial collagenase. To investigate the possible biological function of CAP during cementogenesis, we isolated dental follicle cells from the bovine tooth germ, and showed that they adhered to surfaces containing CAP. These data demonstrate that CAP is expressed by bovine cementoblasts as a 65 kDa protein and that the CAP may have a function in cementogenesis.

Binding specificity of siglec7 to disialogangliosides of renal cell carcinoma: possible role of disialogangliosides in tumor progression

Previous studies indicate that expression of higher gangliosides in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is correlated with metastatic potential, particularly in the lung. Out of five major gangliosides in RCC, three disialogangliosides (disialogalactosylgloboside, IV(3)NeuAcIII(6)NeuAcLc(4), and IV(4)GalNAcIV(3)NeuAcIII(6)NeuAcLc(4)) bind strongly to siglec7, which is expressed highly in monocytes and natural killer cells. Out of other gangliosides tested, 2-->6 sialylparagloboside, GD3, GD2, and GT1b, but not other lacto- or ganglio-series gangliosides, showed clear binding to siglec7. In view of preferential metastasis of RCC to the lung, and binding of RCC cell line TOS-1 to lung tissue sections as shown in our previous study, we examined expression of siglec7 in the lung. siglec7 is expressed highly in resident blood cells, but not in parenchymatous cells. TOS-1 cells aggregate together strongly through adhesion with peripheral blood mononuclear cells to form large clumps. This suggests the possibility that such aggregates may form embolisms of microvasculature, particularly in the lung, which initiate metastasis. Other possible roles of higher gangliosides in RCC in promoting metastasis and tumor progression are discussed.

Association of MUC-1 and SPGL-1 with low-density microdomain in T-lymphocytes: a preliminary note

Two mucin-type glycoproteins, MUC-1 and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1), and glycosphingolipids (GSLs), expressed in human T-cell line HUT78, were highly enriched in low-density buoyant fraction (termed "GEM"), together with CD45, Yes, Fyn, and lck(56). Enrichment of MUC-1, PSGL-1 and GSLs, together with these signal transducer molecules in low-density membrane fraction was observable when fraction was prepared from cells either in nonionic detergent Brij 58 or in hypertonic alkaline conditions (500 mM Na(2)CO(3)). On pretreatment of cells with cholesterol-binding reagent methyl beta-cyclodextrin, levels of MUC-1 and PSGL-1 together with the above signal transducers in GEM was greatly reduced, and they were translocated into high-density membrane fraction. Similar association of lck(56), Yes, Fyn, and cSrc together with MUC-1 was also found in GEM fraction of mouse T-cell lymphoma EL4 cells expressing MUC-1 through transfection of its gene. These findings indicate the presence of another glycosyl cluster ("glycocluster"), in addition to the previously well-established GSL cluster organized with signal transducer molecules in GEM fraction, and its possible functional role in T-cells.

Binding specificity of siglec7 to disialogangliosides of renal cell carcinoma: possible role of disialogangliosides in tumor progression

Previous studies indicate that expression of higher gangliosides in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is correlated with metastatic potential, particularly in the lung. Out of five major gangliosides in RCC, three disialogangliosides (disialogalactosylgloboside, IV(3)NeuAcIII(6)NeuAcLc(4), and IV(4)GalNAcIV(3)NeuAcIII(6)NeuAcLc(4)) bind strongly to siglec7, which is expressed highly in monocytes and natural killer cells. Out of other gangliosides tested, 2-->6 sialylparagloboside, GD3, GD2, and GT1b, but not other lacto- or ganglio-series gangliosides, showed clear binding to siglec7. In view of preferential metastasis of RCC to the lung, and binding of RCC cell line TOS-1 to lung tissue sections as shown in our previous study, we examined expression of siglec7 in the lung. siglec7 is expressed highly in resident blood cells, but not in parenchymatous cells. TOS-1 cells aggregate together strongly through adhesion with peripheral blood mononuclear cells to form large clumps. This suggests the possibility that such aggregates may form embolisms of microvasculature, particularly in the lung, which initiate metastasis. Other possible roles of higher gangliosides in RCC in promoting metastasis and tumor progression are discussed.

GM3 Ganglioside Inhibits CD9-Facilitated Haptotactic Cell Motility: Coexpression of GM3 and CD9 Is Essential in the Downregulation of Tumor Cell Motility and Malignancy†

A cooperative inhibitory effect of GM3, together with CD9, on haptotactic cell motility was demonstrated by a few lines of study as described below. (i) Haptotactic motility of colorectal carcinoma cell lines SW480, SW620, and HRT18, which express CD9 at a high level, is inhibited by exogenous GM3, but not by GM1. (ii) Motility of gastric cancer cell line MKN74, which expresses CD9 at a low level, was not affected by exogenous GM3. Its motility became susceptible to and inhibited by exogenous GM3, but not GM1, when the CD9 level of MKN74 cells was converted to a high level by transfection with CD9 cDNA. Findings i and ii suggest that haptotactic tumor cell motility is cooperatively inhibited by coexpression of CD9 and GM3. (iii) This possibility was further demonstrated using cell line ldlD 14, and its derivative expressing CD9 through transfection of its gene (termed ldlD/CD9). Both of these cell lines are defective in UDP-Gal 4-epimerase and cannot synthesize GM3 unless cultured in the presence of galactose (Gal(+)), whereas GM3 synthesis does not occur when cells are cultured in the absence of Gal (Gal(-)). Haptotactic motility of parental ldlD cells is low, and shows no difference in the presence and absence of Gal. In contrast, the motility of ldlD/CD9 cells is very high in Gal(-) whereby endogenous GM3 synthesis does not occur, and is very reduced in Gal(+) whereby endogenous GM3 synthesis occurs. (iv) Photoactivatable (3)H-labeled GM3 added to HRT18 cells, followed by UV irradiation, causes cross-linking of GM3 to CD9, as evidenced by (3)H labeling of CD9, which is immunoprecipitated with anti-CD9 antibody. These findings suggest that CD9 is a target molecule interacting with GM3, and that CD9 and GM3 cooperatively downregulate tumor cell motility.

Immunohistochemical distribution of CD9, heparin binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor, and integrin alpha3beta1 in normal human tissues

The tetra-membrane-spanning protein CD9 forms a complex with a membrane-anchored heparin binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) and integrin alpha3beta1 in some human and monkey cell lines. We show here the immunohistochemical distribution of CD9, HB-EGF, and integrin alpha3beta1 in normal human tissues. Distribution of CD9, HB-EGF, and integrin alpha3beta1 was similar in various tissues, including transitional epithelium, squamous epithelium, thyroid follicular epithelium, adrenal cortex, testis, smooth muscle, and stromal fibrous tissue. However, distribution of the three proteins did not coincide in some tissues, such as lung, liver, kidney, gastric and intestinal epithelium, pancreas, salivary gland, and ovary. In striated muscle, including cardiac muscle, CD9 was present not in the muscle cells themselves but in the endomysium and perimysium, whereas HB-EGF was distributed in the muscle cells themselves. CD9 was distributed in the myelin, but HB-EGF was found in the axon of the peripheral and central nervous systems. Coincident distribution of integrin alpha3beta1 with others was not observed in muscles and neural tissues. In conclusion, there is a possibility of complex formation and functional cooperation of CD9 with HB-EGF and/or integrin alpha3beta1 in several tissues.

Apolipoprotein E genotype, serum lipids, and colorectal adenomas in Japanese men

We examined the relation of serum lipids and apolipoprotein E genotype to colorectal adenomas among 205 cases and 220 controls with normal colonoscopy in Japanese men. With adjustment for body mass index, cigarette smoking, alcohol use, and other covaiates, odds ratios of proximal and distal adenomas associated with the presence of an allele varepsilon4 were 0.59 (95% confidence interval 0.23-1.45) and 0.99 (0.50-1.98), respectively. While serum total and LDL cholesterol were unrelated to both proximal and distal adenomas, serum triglycerides were positively related to distal adenomas. The findings suggest that altered lipid metabolism may be differentially associated with tumorigenesis in the proximal and distal colorectum.

Glutathione S-transferase polymorphisms and risk of colorectal adenomas

Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are a superfamily of detoxification enzymes that may play an important role in human carcinogenesis. While the genetic polymorphisms GSTM1 and GSTT1 have drawn particular interest in relation to cancer susceptibility, previous studies of colorectal cancer are inconsistent regarding their role. We examined the relation between GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes combined and colorectal adenomas, and the interaction with cigarette smoking among 205 cases of colorectal adenomas and 220 controls with normal total colonoscopy in Japanese men. Neither GSTM1 nor GSTT1 was related to colorectal adenomas, nor were the null genotypes of GSTM1 and GSTT1 combined. The lack of an association with GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes combined persisted even when the analysis was done separately for proximal and distal colorectal adenomas. A three- to fivefold significant increase in the odds of colorectal adenomas was observed among men with a high exposure to cigarette smoking across the genotype groups, and a statistically significant increasing trend was noted within each genotype group. The present findings do not support the role for GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes in the development of colorectal adenomas.

Long-term prognosis after stroke: a community-based study in Japan

Stroke is the leading cause of severe disability in the elderly. Under the national insurance for care and assistance for the elderly starting in 2000, data must be obtained on the prognostic status of stroke patients in communities. We identified 322 incident strokes in six communities (total census population=71,610) during the two- or three-years survey period between 1987 and 1990, and we completed a follow-up of the respective prognoses of most of these patients at one, three, and five years after the onset (n=315 stroke patients) (98%). One year after stroke, 33% of the 315 strokes were dead, 13% were dependent, and 54% were independent. After three years, 44% were dead, 13% were dependent, and 43% were independent. After five years, 52% were dead, 9% were dependent, and 39% were independent. The long-term prognosis was poorer with increased age, and poorer for women than for men except in the case of men ages less than 55 years old at onset. Among patients who were dependents, the proportion of taken care at home was approximately 30% one year after onset, and 50% three to five years after onset. It is estimated that approximately 17 dependents from 127 incident strokes in a population of around 70,000 every year. Because the average survival time of dependents was about 4 years, the prevalence of dependents is estimated to be 68, indicating that the prevalence is about 10 persons per 10,000. Over the period of this study, and as compared with the reported proportions in community-based studies in the 1970's, the proportion of deaths declined and that of independents increased, probably due to reduced severity of stroke. However, the proportion of dependents did not change significantly over time. Thus, under the terms of the new national insurance, it is essential for family and communities to cooperate in taking care of dependent stroke patients.

Glycosylation effect on membrane domain (GEM) involved in cell adhesion and motility: a preliminary note on functional alpha3, alpha5-CD82 glycosylation complex in ldlD 14 cells

Laminin (LN)- or fibronectin (FN)-dependent adhesion in Krieger's ldlD 14 (D14) cells is enhanced significantly in the presence vs absence, of galactose (Gal), whereas LN- or FN-induced haptotactic cell motility is barely affected unless cells express CD82 by its gene transfection (cells termed D14/CD82). The effect of CD82 on LN- or FN-induced motility is based on its ability to associate with alpha3 or alpha5 integrin to form a complex associated with a low-density lipid membrane domain (termed GEM or GSD). Complex formation is greatly affected by N-glycosylation of both integrin and CD82, as well as by concurrent GM3 ganglioside synthesis. The effect of glycosylation on alpha5-CD82 complex was also studied in D14 cells expressing mutant CD82, defective in all three N-glycosylation sites. LN-induced motility was greatly inhibited, whereas FN-induced motility was enhanced, with complete N-glycosylation in D14/CD82 cells in Gal-added medium, whereby alpha5-CD82 complex formation did not occur or occurred at a minimal level. Both LN- and FN-induced motility were inhibited when N-glycosylation was impaired, or N-glycosylation of CD82 was deleted, whereby alpha5-CD82 complex formation occurred strongly. Thus, glycosylation profoundly affects interaction of integrin with CD82, leading to significant inhibition or promotion of cell motility.

Dust exposure and lung cancer mortality in tunnel workers

The eastern part of the Toyama Prefecture in Japan is one of the high-incidence areas of silicosis due to tunnel construction. In 1977 and 1978, we conducted a questionnaire survey primarily concerning the occupational history of all male inhabitants over 30 years of age living in five villages in this area and found 603 tunnel workers and inhabitants without dust history. These workers have been followed up to 1994 for about 17 to 18 years to clarify the relationship between tunnel work and lung cancer mortality. The SMR's of workers with dust exposure for all causes and for lung cancer was 120 and 188, respectively, which was significantly higher than those of the Japanese general population. After adjustment for age and smoking habits using Cox's proportional hazard model, tunnel work showed a significant relationship to mortality. Mortality risk ratio of tunnel workers was 2.15 compared with that of inhabitants without dust exposure history.

Cigarette smoking, CYP1A1 MspI and GSTM1 genotypes, and colorectal adenomas

Cigarette smoking has been related to increased risk of colorectal adenomas, but the underlying mechanisms are unknown. Genetic polymorphisms are known for enzymes involved in the activation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and other tobacco-related carcinogens. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are activated by cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A1) and detoxified by glutathione S-transferases. We investigated the relation of CYP1A1 MspI and GSTM1 genotypes to the risk of colorectal adenomas with special reference to interaction with cigarette smoking among 205 cases of colorectal adenomas and 220 controls with normal total colonoscopy in a male Japanese population. Cigarette smoking was strongly associated with increased risk of colorectal adenomas. Overall, neither the CYP1A1 MspI genotype nor the GSTM1 genotype was related to colorectal adenomas. A significant trend for increased risk of colorectal adenomas associated with smoking was observed for each of the CYP1A1 MspI genotypes, and the increasing trends did not differ by MspI genotype. The positive association between smoking and colorectal adenomas did not vary much with GSTM1 genotypes. Among former and current smokers, adenoma risk did not differ according to the combination of CYP1A1 MspI and GSTM1 genotypes. CYP1A1 MspI and GSTM1 genotypes do not seem to modify the risk of colorectal adenomas associated with cigarette smoking.

Glycosylation affects translocation of integrin, Src, and caveolin into or out of GEM

Endogenous GM3 synthesis and full N-glycosylation in membrane receptors occurred in "4-epimerase-less" ldlD (Krieger's CHO mutant) cells cultured in Gal-containing medium, whereby components of detergent-insoluble, low-density, buoyant membrane fraction, termed "glycolipid-enriched microdomain (GEM)," varied significantly by translocation into or out of GEM. Integrins alpha3 and alpha5 were translocated into GEM in the presence of 0.5 or 0.25% Triton X-100, particularly in the absence of Gal, whereby integrins are underglycosylated and GlcCer is the major glycolipid component in GEM. Src family kinase was translocated into and enriched in GEM fractions when prepared in 0.5 or 0.25% Triton X-100 from cells grown in Gal-containing medium, whereby GM3 synthesis is induced. In contrast, caveolin is highly enriched in GEM when GM3 synthesis does not occur, and is translocated into high-density membrane fraction when GM3 synthesis occurs. The results suggest that levels of key molecules controlling cell adhesion and signaling are defined by translocation into or out of GEM, which depends on glycosylation state.

Reconstitution of membranes simulating "glycosignaling domain" and their susceptibility to lyso-GM3

GM3 ganglioside at the surface of mouse melanoma B16 cells is clustered and organized with signal transducer molecules c-Src, Rho A, and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) to form a membrane unit separable from caveolae, which are enriched in cholesterol and caveolin but do not contain GM3 or the above three signal transducers. The GM3-enriched membrane units are involved in GM3-dependent cell adhesion coupled with activation of c-Src, Rho A, and FAK and are termed the "glycosphingolipid signaling domain" or the "glycosignaling domain" (GSD). In order to assess the essential components that display GSD function, membranes with properties similar to those of GSD were reconstituted using GM3, sphingomyelin, and c-Src, with or without other lipid components. The reconstituted membrane thus prepared displayed GM3-dependent adhesion to plates coated with Gg3 or anti-GM3 antibody, resulting in enhanced c-Src phosphorylation (c-Src phosphorylation response). This response in reconstituted membrane depends on GM3 concentration and was not observed when GM3 was absent or replaced with other gangliosides GM1 or GD1a, or with LacCer. The GM3-dependent c-Src phosphorylation response was enhanced when cholesterol and phosphatidylcholine were added. Although GM3, sphingomyelin, and c-Src are essential for GSD function, a small quantity of cholesterol and phosphatidylcholine may act as an auxiliary factor to stabilize membrane. GSD function in terms of GM3-dependent adhesion and signaling was blocked in the presence of lyso-GM3 or its analogue but not psychosine, lactosyl-sphingosine, or lyso-phosphatidylcholine. Such susceptibility of reconstituted GSD to lyso-GM3 and other lyso compounds is the same as GSD of original B16 cells. Thus, functional organization of the reconstituted membrane closely simulates that of GSD in B16 cells, which is based on clustered GM3 organized with c-Src as the essential components.

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase polymorphism and risk of colorectal adenomas

A homozygous mutation at bp 677 in the gene for the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) was previously shown to be associated with a decreased risk of colorectal cancer. We examined the relation between the MTHFR genetic polymorphism and risk of colorectal adenoma in Japanese men using 205 cases of colorectal adenomas and 220 controls of normal total colonoscopy. The homozygous mutation was not measurably associated with colorectal adenomas. The findings corroborate the lack of an association between the MTHFR genotype and colorectal adenomas, but do not deny the possibility that the genotype may be involved in the late stage of colorectal carcinogenesis.

Melon yellow spot virus: A Distinct Species of the Genus Tospovirus Isolated from Melon

ABSTRACT A tospovirus-like virus recovered from netted melon was transmitted by Thrips palmi in a persistent manner but had different cytopathological features from tospoviruses previously reported. Viral nucleocapsid (N) was purified with two protective reagents, 2-mercaptoethanol and L-ascorbic acid, and RNA extracted from the viral nucleocapsid was used for genomic analysis. The virus had a genome consisting of three single-stranded RNA molecules. The open reading frame on the viral complementary strand, located at the 3' end of the viral S RNA, encoded the N protein. The 3' terminus of this RNA also contained an eight-nucleotide sequence similar to the conserved sequence at the 3' end of genomic RNA molecules of tospoviruses. These features of the viral genome are identical to those of tospoviruses; therefore, this virus is considered to belong to the genus Tospovirus. Its N protein comprised 279 amino acids and had a molecular mass of 31.0 kDa. Comparisons of its amino acid sequence with those of known tospoviruses revealed less than 60% identity. This melon virus is concluded to be a distinct species in the genus Tospovirus, and the name Melon yellow spot virus is proposed.

Deletion of A-antigen in a human cancer cell line is associated with reduced promoter activity of CBF/NF-Y binding region, and possibly with enhanced DNA methylation of A transferase promoter

Employing blood group A- and A+ clones derived from the same parental colonic cancer cell lines, we studied the molecular mechanism of deletion/reduction vs. continuous expression of A antigen in A tumors, a crucial determinant of human tumor malignancy. A- transferase mRNA level in one of the A- clones (A- SW480) was undetectable, while that in A+ SW480 was strongly detectable by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Relatively lower (approximately 1/3) transcript level was detectable in another A- clone (A- HT29) in comparison to A+ HT29 by the same RT-PCR procedure, although none of these tumor cell lines showed detectable level of A transcript by Northern blotting or RNase protection methods. Therefore, subsequent studies were performed employing A- vs. A+ SW480 clones. Deletion of A transcript in A- cells was not due to gene deletion, since Southern blot analysis showed equal presence of genomic DNA regardless of A- vs. A+ (SW480 or HT29) or B+ (KATOIII) tumor cells. Two transcriptional control mechanisms leading to differences of A expression in SW480 cells are indicated. i. Luciferase assay in A- and A+ SW480 cells showed that promoter activities of segments of 5' flanking sequence of ABO gene reflected transcript levels in these cell lines. The enhancing activity of a 43 bp tandem repeat unit located between -3899 to -3618 was reduced in A- compared to A+ cells. ii. Distinct differences in the pattern of CpG dinucleotide methylation were found in A- vs. A+ cells. Therefore, the methylation process of A promoter DNA may be another important factor controlling A activity in SW480 tumor cells. Since proliferation and motility of tumor cells are associated closely with A expression, transcription control mechanism for expression of A transferase as described above may be of crucial importance in defining human tumor malignancy.

Contact-dependent growth inhibition and apoptosis of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor-expressing cells by the membrane-anchored form of heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor

Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) transduces mitogenic signals through the EGF receptor (EGFR). There are two forms of HB-EGF, the membrane-anchored form (pro-HB-EGF) and the soluble form (sHB-EGF). We studied the biological activity of pro-HB-EGF by using a model in which pro-HB-EGF-expressing effector cells was co-cultured with EGFR-expressing target cells. The DER cell, an EGFR-expressing derivative of the interleukin-3-dependent hematopoietic 32D cell line, grows well in the presence of EGF or sHB-EGF without IL-3. When DER cells were co-cultured on a monolayer of Vero-H cells overexpressing pro-HB-EGF, growth inhibition and subsequent apoptosis were induced in the DER cells even in the presence of excess amounts of EGF or sHB-EGF. Such growth inhibition of DER cells was abrogated when specific antagonists for pro-HB-EGF were added in the culture medium or when direct contact of DER cells with Vero-H cells was prevented, indicating that pro-HB-EGF is involved in this inhibitory effect. Pro-HB-EGF-induced apoptosis of DER cells was also observed even in the presence of IL-3. This rules out the possibility of simple competition between soluble EGFR ligands and pro-HB-EGF. Moreover, 32D cells expressing EGFR mutant composed of the extracellular and the transmembrane domain of EGFR and the cytoplasmic domain of erythropoietin receptor did not undergo apoptosis by co-culture with Vero-H cells, indicating that the inhibitory signal induced by pro-HB-EGF-expressing Vero-H cells is mediated to DER cells via EGFR and that the cytoplasmic domain of EGFR is essential for pro-HB-EGF-induced apoptosis. From these results, we concluded that pro-HB-EGF has unique biological activity through cell-cell contact that is distinct from the activity of sHB-EGF.

Obesity, weight gain and risk of colon adenomas in Japanese men

Obesity has been related to increased risk of colon cancer or adenomas, but the epidemiologic findings are not entirely consistent. We examined the relation of not only body mass index (BMI) but also waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and weight gain to colon adenoma risk in men who received a preretirement health examination at the Japan Self Defense Forces (SDF) Fukuoka and Kumamoto Hospitals during the period from 1995 to 1996. In the series of 803 men at age 47-55 years, 189 cases of colon adenomas and 226 controls with normal total colonoscopy were identified. Weight at 10 years before was ascertained by referring to the recorded data. After allowance for hospital, rank in the SDF, smoking and alcohol use, weight gain over the past 10 years was significantly associated with increased risk of colon adenomas (odds ratio for > or = 6 kg versus < or =-2 kg = 2.2; 95% confidence interval 1.0-4.8). High BMI and high WHR were each associated with increased risk, but only WHR was related to the risk independently of weight gain. In particular, weight gain accompanied with a high WHR was associated with a significant increase in the risk. Men with high physical activity tended to have lower risk. Associations with obesity-related variables and physical activity were not materially differential as regards the location and size of adenoma. The findings indicate that weight gain in middle age leading to abdominal obesity increases the risk of colon adenomas, and consequently of colon cancer.

Expression of cell cycle markers in colorectal carcinoma: superiority of cyclin A as an indicator of poor prognosis

Our aim was to analyze the relationship between the proliferative activity of cancer cells, assessed using some cell cycle markers, and clinicopathological factors in colorectal carcinoma patients. Immunostaining for Ki-67 (pan-cell cycle marker), cyclin D1 (G1-phase marker) and cyclin A (S- to G2-phase marker), and in situ hybridization for histone H3 mRNA (S-phase marker) were carried out. Immunoreactivity was evaluated semiquantitatively using a scoring system to calculate a staining index (SI). The expression of cyclin D1, histone H3 mRNA and cyclin A correlated significantly with Ki-67 antigen expression. The SIs of Ki-67, cyclin A and histone H3 mRNA were significantly higher in patients > or = 65 years of age than in those < 65. The SIs of Ki-67 and cyclin D1 in poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas were significantly higher than in the other tumor types. Furthermore, the SI of cyclin D1 in carcinomas with lymph node metastasis was higher than in carcinomas without metastasis and was higher in advanced carcinomas than early carcinomas. The overall survival was significantly lower in patients with cyclin A overexpression than in those without. Multivariate analysis indicated that cyclin A overexpression is an independent prognostic factor in patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma. Our results indicate that cyclin D1 overexpression correlates with poor adenocarcinoma differentiation and tumor progression, and cyclin A overexpression is a superior indicator of poor prognosis compared with the other cell cycle markers tested.

Expression of cell cycle markers in colorectal carcinoma: superiority of cyclin A as an indicator of poor prognosis

Our aim was to analyze the relationship between the proliferative activity of cancer cells, assessed using some cell cycle markers, and clinicopathological factors in colorectal carcinoma patients. Immunostaining for Ki-67 (pan-cell cycle marker), cyclin D1 (G1-phase marker) and cyclin A (S- to G2-phase marker), and in situ hybridization for histone H3 mRNA (S-phase marker) were carried out. Immunoreactivity was evaluated semiquantitatively using a scoring system to calculate a staining index (SI). The expression of cyclin D1, histone H3 mRNA and cyclin A correlated significantly with Ki-67 antigen expression. The SIs of Ki-67, cyclin A and histone H3 mRNA were significantly higher in patients > or = 65 years of age than in those < 65. The SIs of Ki-67 and cyclin D1 in poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas were significantly higher than in the other tumor types. Furthermore, the SI of cyclin D1 in carcinomas with lymph node metastasis was higher than in carcinomas without metastasis and was higher in advanced carcinomas than early carcinomas. The overall survival was significantly lower in patients with cyclin A overexpression than in those without. Multivariate analysis indicated that cyclin A overexpression is an independent prognostic factor in patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma. Our results indicate that cyclin D1 overexpression correlates with poor adenocarcinoma differentiation and tumor progression, and cyclin A overexpression is a superior indicator of poor prognosis compared with the other cell cycle markers tested.

Biphasic relaxation caused by electrical field stimulation of the mesenteric arteries of rats

Electrical field stimulation (EFS) caused biphasic relaxation, first transient and then sustained, of rat mesenteric arteries precontracted by prostaglandin (PG) F2alpha. The transient relaxation was reduced about 45%, and the sustained relaxation was not observed after endothelium denudation of the arteries. N(omega)-Nitro-L-arginine (L-NOARG) inhibited the biphasic relaxation induced by EFS. At 1 - 100 microM, L-NOARG inhibited the transient relaxation more than the sustained relaxation. Methylene blue inhibited the biphasic relaxation and at 100 microM, L-NOARG abolished the transient relaxation. These results suggest that the transient relaxation mainly involves nitric oxide (NO), whereas the sustained relaxation involves both NO and some other factor(s).

Motility inhibition and apoptosis are induced by metastasis-suppressing gene product CD82 and its analogue CD9, with concurrent glycosylation

Metastasis-suppressing gene product CD82 and its analogue CD9 are considered to suppress the malignancy of various human cancers, although the rationale for this effect is unknown. The present study addresses phenotypic changes in Chinese hamster ovary mutant cell line ldlD deficient in UDP-Glc 4-epimerase and expressing CD82 or CD9 by cDNA transfection. Only CD82- or CD9-expressing cells grown in Gal-supplemented medium showed reduced motility and massive cell death, which are characteristic of apoptosis, after a latent period. Under this condition, endogenous GM3 synthesis was observed as a common factor, and N-glycosylation occurred at a high level in CD82 and to a lesser extent in CD9. Thus, the malignancy-suppressing effect of CD82 or CD9 is based partially on cell motility inhibition and apoptosis induction promoted by concurrent GM3 synthesis and N-glycosylation.

The relationship between lifestyle, social characteristics and obesity in 3-year-old Japanese children

It has been observed that obese children receive genetic and environmental effects that are associated with them being overweight. With regard to the latter, lifestyles such as eating habits and physical activity have been focused on. In the present study, the social characteristics which would dominate their lifestyles were investigated as background variables. For this purpose, 9668 Japanese children aged three years who were all born in Toyama prefecture, Japan, in 1998, served as birth cohort subjects. For the comparison between obese (Kaup Index; mass in kg/(height in m)2 > or = 18) and nonobese (Kaup index < 18) children, irregular snack intake, physical inactivity and reduced sleeping hours were chosen as statistically significant obesity-related lifestyle indicators for the children. For social characteristics, family construction (expanded family with grandparents/nonexpanded family), main caregiver (mother/other), attending a nursery school (yes/no) and mother's employment (full-time worker/other) were chosen. These were significantly associated with the obesity-related lifestyles mentioned above using multiple logistic regression analysis adjusted for other variables of social characteristics as well as for gender and birth month (July-December/January-June). The two greatest population-attributable risk percentages were observed for mother as main caregiver (-36.5%) and attending a nursery school (-28.9%) for irregular snack intake. Therefore, these two social characteristics substantially reduced the number of children with irregular snack intake. On the other hand, the two social characteristics were reversed in children with reduced sleeping hours (population-attributable risk percentage of mother as main caregiver: 15.4%; attending a nursery school: 17%). In contrast with favourable effects on snack intake these social characteristics showed an adverse influence on the sleeping habits of children.

Computers in otorhinolaryngology; new horizons

There has been an explosion in the computers and information technology in the past couple of years. Otorhinolaryngology has also seen a number of new applications of computers. This article aims to familiarize the reader with different uses of computers as applied to the field of Otorhinolaryngology. It deals with the role in medical literature search, patient and doctor education, medical record keeping telemedicine, internet and E-mail, creating virtual environments and its role in FESS. skull base tumours and plastic surgery.

Thrombomodulin levels in patients with coronary artery disease

We investigated the association between the serum level of thrombomodulin and known coronary risk factors in 119 men who underwent coronary angiography. Total cholesterol level was significantly higher in patients with coronary atherosclerosis than in those without. Significantly higher frequency of hypertension was noted in patients with coronary atherosclerosis. Uric acid level and frequency of smoking tended to be higher in patients with coronary atherosclerosis but the differences were short short of the significant level. The serum level of thrombomodulin between patients with coronary atherosclerosis and those without was not statistically significant. Age, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine were positively correlated and creatinine clearance was inversely correlated with the serum level of thrombomodulin. Serum levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, uric acid, and fasting blood sugar, plasma level of fibrinogen, and body mass index were not related to the serum level of thrombomodulin. There was no significant correlation between the severity of coronary atherosclerosis, hypertension, alcohol use, or smoking and the serum level of thrombomodulin. Restenosis was present in 8 of 16 patients who underwent percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty and had a follow-up angiogram at 6.0 +/- 3.0 months. Univariate analysis revealed no significant difference in the thrombomodulin level with and without restenosis. The present findings suggest that elevated thrombomodulin levels in patients with coronary artery disease may reflect retention of thrombomodulin due to decrease in thrombomodulin clearance in the kidney.

Convertase activity in alveolar surfactant and lamellar bodies in fetal, newborn, and adult rabbits

Conversion of heavy-aggregate alveolar surfactant (H) to a light-aggregate, nonsurface active form (L) is believed to involve the activity of an enzyme, namely, convertase. This conversion can be reproduced in vitro by the surface-area cycling technique. The purpose of the present study was to use this technique to investigate the developmental aspects of convertase activity in fetal, newborn, and adult rabbits. H was isolated from alveolar lavage from term [31-day gestation (31d)] fetal rabbit pups, 1-, 4-, and 7-day-old newborns, and adults, and the percent conversion to L was determined. To assess lamellar bodies (LB) as a potential source of activity in this species, these structures were isolated from lung tissue of 27-day-gestation (27d) and 31d fetuses, 1-, 4-, and 7-day-old newborns, and adults and were cycled the same as for H. LB contained considerable activity at each developmental stage i.e., approximately 82% of a 27d LB preparation converted to L after 3 h of cycling. In the adult, this value was 78%. Very little conversion of H was obtained from fetal lung (i.e., <20% of the 31d fetal preparation converted to L), but, by postnatal day 4, this value was greatly increased (i.e., >80% conversion) and stayed elevated to adulthood. The activity for each H and LB fraction was temperature and concentration dependent and diminished with storage at 4 degreesC. These data suggest the LB as the source of convertase activity in the rabbit and demonstrate dramatic developmental changes in this activity after release of the LB contents to the alveoli.

Separation of "glycosphingolipid signaling domain" from caveolin-containing membrane fraction in mouse melanoma B16 cells and its role in cell adhesion coupled with signaling

Two membrane subfractions, one enriched in GM3 ganglioside and the other containing caveolin, were separated from low density detergent-insoluble membrane fraction prepared by sucrose density gradient centrifugation of postnuclear fraction of mouse melanoma B16 cells. The GM3-enriched subfraction, separated by anti-GM3 monoclonal antibody DH2, contained sphingomyelin, cholesterol, c-Src, and Rho A but not caveolin. In contrast, the caveolin-containing subfraction, separated by anti-caveolin antibody, contained neither GM3, c-Src, nor Rho A but did contain glucosylceramide, Ras, a very small quantity of sphingomyelin, and a very large quantity of cholesterol. The GM3/c-Src-enriched membrane subfraction was characterized by (i) maintenance of GM3-dependent adhesion and (ii) susceptibility to being activated for signal transduction through GM3. 32P-Phosphorylation of c-Src (Mr 60,000) together with two other components (Mr 45,000 and 29,000) was enhanced in the fraction bound to dishes coated with asialo-GM2 (Gg3) or with anti-GM3 monoclonal antibody DH2, detected by incubation with [gamma-32P]ATP at 37 degreesC for 5 min. GM3-dependent adhesion of B16 cells to Gg3-coated dishes and associated signaling were not reduced or abolished in the presence of either filipin or nystatin, which are cholesterol-binding reagents known to abolish caveolae structure and function. B16 melanoma cells incubated with filipin (0.16-0.3 micrograms/ml) or with nystatin (25 micrograms/ml) for 30 min showed depletion of cholesterol in detergent-insoluble membrane fraction but were still capable of binding to Gg3-coated plate and capable of the associated signaling. Thus, the GM3-enriched subfraction, involved in cell adhesion and capable of sending signals through GM3, represents a membrane domain distinguishable from caveolin-containing subfraction or caveolae. This microdomain is hereby termed the "glycosphingolipid signaling domain" or "glycosignaling domain".

Expression profiles of I and sialosyl-I antigens on blood cells: the sialosyl-I antigen is expressed along the monocytic differentiation

Expression of I and sialosyl-I antigens was examined using specific monoclonal antibodies. The anti-I antibody C6 reacted with monocytes (24%), T cells (55%), B cells (80%) but not with neutrophils (4%), bone marrow (BM) CD34+ cells (2%) or mobilized peripheral blood (PB) CD34+ cells (1%). The anti-sialosyl-I antibody NUH2 reacted with monocytes (38%) and BM CD34+ cells (41%) but not with T cells (2%), B cells (0%) or neutrophils (1%) and it hardly reacted with mobilized PB CD34+ cells (8%). Flow cytometric analyses of CD34+ cells enriched from BM showed that most of the sialosyl-I cells expressed CD13, CD33, CD117, and HLA-DR. Sialosyl-I+ CD34+ cells isolated from BM produced a large number of granulocyte-macrophage colonies and macrophage colonies. Therefore, sialosyl-I+ CD34+ cells are suggested to be colony-forming units granulocyte-macrophage (CFU-GM) and colony-forming units macrophage (CFU-M). BM CD34+ cells cultured in medium containing cytokines produced I+ CD14+ monoblasts and sialosyl-I+ CD14+ monoblasts. Leukemic cells from patients with acute myeloid leukemia were I-negative (32/32) and sialosyl-I-positive (one/32). Leukemic cells from patients with acute lymphoid leukemia were I-positive (four/ten) and sialosyl-I-negative (ten/ten). These results indicate that (1) the I antigen is broadly expressed by monoblasts, monocytes, lymphocytes, and leukemic lymphoblasts, and (2) the sialosyl-I antigen is expressed along the normal differentiation of CFU-GM to monocytes.