Mandibular morphology and distraction osteogenesis vectors in patients with Robin sequence

The aims of this cohort study were to compare the mandibular morphology between patients with Robin sequence (RS) and controls, and to examine the effects of mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) using different vectors. Measurements of the mandibles of 80 patients with RS and 46 controls aged< 90 days were made using computed tomography. The data were compared among isolated RS patients (n = 58), syndromic RS patients (n = 22), and controls. Patients with RS exhibited significantly shorter ramus and body lengths and larger symphyseal angles than controls (all P < 0.001). Patients with isolated RS had shorter body lengths (P < 0.001), while syndromic patients had shorter ramus and body lengths (both P < 0.001) than controls. Seventy RS patients underwent MDO. Pre-MDO (n = 37) and post-MDO (n = 29) mandibular measurements were compared between patients undergoing MDO with a vertical vector and those undergoing MDO with a horizontal vector. Polysomnography data from part of the cohort highlighted the effectiveness of both vectors. MDO with a horizontal vector conferred 11% and 36% increases in ramus and body length, respectively, while these increases were 34% and 27.5%, respectively, with a vertical vector. MDO with a vertical vector was effective in lengthening ramus and body components and should be considered in the presence of ramus hypoplasia.

Evidence that fibroblast growth factor 10 plays a role in follicle selection in cattle

There is evidence that regulation of follicle selection in cattle involves locally produced growth factors. In the present study, we investigated the expression of members of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 7 family during follicle deviation. The largest and second largest follicles were recovered during the second day of a synchronised follicle wave and the future dominant and future subordinate follicles were identified based on diameter and cytochrome P450, family 19, subfamily A, polypeptide 1 (CYP19A1) mRNA levels in granulosa cells. Theca cells of the future dominant follicle contained less mRNA encoding FGF7 and FGF10 compared with those from the future subordinate follicle 2.5 days after ovulation, before a significant difference between the diameters of the future dominant and future subordinate follicles could be observed, but FGF22 mRNA levels did not change. Levels of mRNA encoding FGF receptors FGFR1B and FGFR2B in theca and granulosa cells, respectively, were lower in the future dominant follicle compared with the future subordinate follicle. Addition of FGF10 to granulosa cells in vitro significantly decreased oestradiol secretion, as well as CYP19A1, FSH receptor (FSHR) and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) mRNA abundance, whereas FGF22 had no effect. We conclude that FGF10 and FGFR2B expression is increased in the future subordinate follicle before morphological deviation, which may contribute to follicle selection.

Clinical Impact of Surgical Complications in Kidney Transplant Recipients in a Reference Hospital in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

BACKGROUND

Renal transplantation is the treatment of choice for patients with stage V chronic kidney disease, which does not have contraindications to the procedure and is more cost-effective than dialysis treatments and provides better survival and quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to evaluate the incidence of postoperative complications in kidney transplant recipients in a reference hospital.

METHODOLOGY

This was a descriptive and retrospective study involving the analysis of patient records during hospitalization and outpatient treatment. We analyzed the demographics, clinical indicators, surgical techniques, and postoperative complications.

RESULTS

In the analysis of 147 transplantations, there was a higher incidence of transplantation in female recipients, average age of 37 years with a predominance of cadaveric transplantation. Of all pretransplantation comorbidities, hypertension was the most frequent. The overall incidence of surgical complications was 29.9%, with an incidence of vascular complications of 12.7%, 13.4% of surgical site complications, 8.2% of urologic complications, and 3% of hemorrhagic complications.

DISCUSSION

Vascular complications are serious complications and are associated with increased risk of graft loss (relative risk, 8.4), particularly arterial thrombosis. Patients with ureteral anastomosis using Lich-Gregoir technique showed lower urologic complications compared with patients with anastomosis by Leadbetter-Politano technique.

CONCLUSION

Surgical complications have different clinical effects, depending on their category. The vascular complications are associated with graft lost.

236 EFFECT OF CYCLIC ADENOSINE MONOPHOSPHATE MODULATOR REGULATORS IN ASSOCIATION WITH BMP15 ON BOVINE EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT IN VITRO

BMP15 is a promising peptide to improve oocyte competence; also, addition of cyclic adenosine monophosphate modulator (cAMP) regulators prevents spontaneous maturation in vitro and promotes embryo development. We aimed to assess embryo development after prematuration [pre-in vitro maturation (IVM)] with IBMX and Forskolin (FSK) and maturation in the presence or absence of a purified pro mature region of BMP15. Immature cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) were cultured in vitroMat (IVF Vet Solutions, Adelaide, Australia) plus 4 mg mL–1 fatty acid free-BSA and rhFSH (0.1 IU mL–1), then divided into the following treatment groups: 1) spontaneous IVM: 24 h of IVM; 2) spontaneous IVM + BMP15: 24 h of IVM in the presence of BMP15 (100 ng mL–1); 3) Pre 2 h: pretreatment with IBMX (500 µM; Sigma-Aldrich) and FSK (100 µM; Sigma-Aldrich) for 2 h following 24 h maturation; and 4) Pre 2 h + BMP15: pretreatment with IBMX and FSK for 2 h following 24 h maturation in the presence of BMP15 (100 ng mL–1). After maturation, oocytes were inseminated and zygotes were cultured for 5 days in VitroCleave (IVF Vet Solutions, Adelaide, Australia) and transferred into VitroBlast (IVF Vet Solutions, Adelaide, Australia) until blastocyst assessment (Days 7 and 8). Zona-intact embryos were retrieved to assess differential staining of trophectoderm and inner cell mass. Data were transformed into a logarithm and analysed by 1-way ANOVA and post hoc least significant difference using SigmaStat software (SPSS Inc., San Jose, CA, USA; P < 0.05). There was no difference among groups on cleavage rates or blastocyst rates at Day 7; however, both Pre 2 h treatments increase hatched blastocyst rates at Day 8 of embryo development (Table 1). Supplementation with BMP15 increased total blastocyst rates at Day 8, regardless of pretreatment with IBMX+FSK (Table 1). Our data demonstrate that embryos from oocytes matured in the presence of BMP15 or pretreated with IBMX+FSK increase trophectoderm and total cell numbers; however, no differences were observed for inner cell mass. We conclude that Pre 2 h treatment or BMP15 increase embryo development; however, no effect of cAMP regulators in association with BMP15 on embryo development was observed. Table 1.Embryo development Supported by FAPESP (project numbers: 2012/1073-8; 2013/12960-9; 2013/05083-1; 2012/50533-2).

Expression of fibroblast growth factor 10 and cognate receptors in the developing bovine ovary

In the mammalian ovary, FGF10 is expressed in oocytes and theca cells and is a candidate for paracrine signaling to the developing granulosa cells. To gain insight into the participation of FGF10 in the regulation of fetal folliculogenesis, we assessed mRNA expression patterns of FGF10 and its receptors, FGFR1B and FGFR2B, in relation to fetal follicle dynamics and localized FGF10 protein in bovine fetal ovaries at different ages. Primordial, primary, secondary, and antral follicles were first observed on Days 75, 90, 150, and 210 of gestation, respectively. The levels of GDF9 and BMP15 mRNA, markers for primordial and primary follicles, respectively, increased during fetal ovary development in a consistent manner with fetal follicle dynamics. CYP17A1 mRNA abundance increased from Day 60 to Day 75 and then from Day 120 to Day 150, coinciding with the appearance of secondary follicles. FGF10 mRNA abundance increased from Day 90, and this increase was temporally associated with increases in FGFR1B mRNA abundance and in the population of primary follicles. In contrast, FGFR2B mRNA expression was highest on Day 60 and decreased thereafter. FGF10 protein was localized to oogonia and oocytes and surrounding granulosa cells at all fetal ages. The present data suggest a role for FGF10 in the control of fetal folliculogenesis in cattle.

209 EXPRESSION OF GENES RELATED TO OVULATORY CAPACITY (LHR AND AGTR2) IN GRANULOSA CELLS FROM SUPERSTIMULATED OR NOT SUPERSTIMULATED ANGUS COWS

Multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) has contributed to genetic improvement of Brazilian cattle and the P36 superstimulatory treatment protocol has been used successfully in MOET programs. Recently, increased mRNA levels of LH receptor (LHR) and angiotensin II receptor type 2 (AGTR2) have been reported in granulosa cells (GC) of superstimulated Nelore cows using P36 protocol and the efficacy of the P36 protocol has been investigated with the addition of a LH stimulus (eCG or LH), on the last day of treatment. We aimed to evaluate mRNA abundance of AGTR2 and LHR, related to ovulatory capacity, in GC of superstimulated Angus cows by different variations of the P36 protocol. Multiparous Angus cows (n = 37) were randomly assigned to four groups: control, P36, P36+eCG, and P36/FSH+LH. The control group (non-superstimulated cows, n = 7) received an intravaginal device containing progesterone (1.0 g; Primer®; Agener Animal Health, São Paulo, SP, Brazil) and 2.5 mg of oestradiol benzoate (EB; RIC-BE®; Agener Animal Health; IM) on a random day of the oestrous cycle (Day 0). After 8 days (Day 8) cows were treated with PGF2α (150 mg d-cloprostenol; Prolise®; Agener Animal Health; IM; 7:00 a.m.) and the intravaginal device was removed (7:00 p.m.). Cows from P36 group (n = 10) received the intravaginal device and 2.5 mg of EB at the beginning of the protocol (Day 0). Starting 5 days later (Day 5), 200 mg pFSH (Folltropin®; Bioniche Animal Health, Belleville, ON, Canada) was administered twice daily by IM injections over 4 days; on Day 7, PGF2α was administered and the intravaginal device was removed 36 h later (Day 8, 7:00 p.m.). Groups with the addition of a LH stimulus (eCG or LH administration) were submitted to the P36 protocol with replacement of the last two FSH doses by 200 IU eCG (P36+eCG; Novormon®, MSD Animal Health, São Paulo, SP, Brazil, IM; n = 10) or 2 mg pLH concomitant with the last two doses of FSH (P36/FSH+LH; Lutropin®, Bioniche Animal Health, IM; n = 10). Cows in all groups were slaughtered on Day 9, 12 h after progesterone-device removal and ovaries were transported on ice to the laboratory immediately after slaughter. Non-superstimulated dominant follicles and superstimulated follicles were dissected from the ovaries to obtain GC and total RNA was extracted. Amplification of housekeeping (peptidyl-prolyl isomerase A; PPIA) and target genes was performed by real-time RT–PCR according to the Sybr Green protocol. Relative gene expression was determined by Pfaffl's equation. The mRNA abundance was compared by Tukey's test and the significance level was P < 0.05. In GC, the mRNA abundance (mean ± s.e.m.) of LHR and AGTR2 was higher in the control group (1.02 ± 0.24 and 3.76 ± 1.07, respectively; P < 0.05) when compared with the superstimulated groups: P36 (0.33 ± 0.24 and 1.02 ± 0.21), P36+eCG (0.42 ± 0.10 and 1.40 ± 0.33) and P36/FSH+LH (0.38 ± 0.07 and 1.45 ± 0.49). In conclusion, the superstimulatory treatments decrease mRNA levels of LHR and AGTR2. We acknowledge CAPES for E. Lucacin's scholarship and FAPESP–São Paulo Research Foundation for grant number 2011/50593-2.

249 EXPRESSION OF mRNA ENCODING EPIDERMAL GROWTH FACTOR-LIKE FACTORS IN BOVINE CUMULUS CELLS DURING IN VITRO MATURATION: EFFECTS OF TIME AND FOLLICLE-STIMULATING HORMONE

Epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like family members [amphiregulin (AREG), epiregulin (EREG), and betacellulin (BTC)] have been shown to be important regulators of cumulus–oocyte complex (COC) maturation, particularly cumulus expansion. The aim of this study was to determine the temporal expression patterns of mRNA encoding EGF-like growth factors in bovine cumulus cells (CC) during COC in vitro maturation and to assess the effects of grading doses of FSH on EGF-like mRNA expression in CC. Immature COC (grades 1 and 2) were obtained from 2- to 8-mm follicles from abattoir ovaries. In the first experiment, CC were separated from 20 COC and frozen before (immature group) or after COC culture for 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 h with (10 ng mL–1) or without FSH. In the second experiment, pools containing 20 COC were matured for 12 h with grading doses of FSH (0, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 ng mL–1). After culture, CC were mechanically separated and stored at –80°C. Total RNA was extracted using RNeasy® (Qiagen, Valencia, CA, USA), and 100 ng of RNA was reverse transcribed. Expression of target genes was assessed by real-time PCR and normalized by Cyclophilin (CYC-A). Relative quantification of mRNA abundance was determined by the Pfaffl equation. Effects of time of culture and FSH treatment were tested by ANOVA, and groups were compared by Tukey-Kramer honestly significant difference test. Nonparametric analysis was used when data were not normally distributed. Differences were considered significant when P < 0.05. In the presence of FSH, AREG and EREG mRNA abundance was increased at 4 h of culture, whereas in the absence of FSH, AREG but not EREG mRNA levels were increased by 4 h of culture. The addition of FSH stimulated AREG mRNA expression from 4 to 16 h of culture. In contrast, BTC mRNA was more expressed in immature CC, decreased after 4 h of culture with FSH, and did not vary during maturation in the absence of FSH. In the dose–response experiment, AREG and EREG mRNA expression was stimulated by FSH starting from 10 ng mL–1 and did not increase from 10 ng mL–1 to 100 ng mL–1. Again in contrast, BTC mRNA expression was inhibited by FSH at 100 ng mL–1. In conclusion, the present data suggest that FSH differently regulates the expression of EGF-like factors during bovine COC maturation, although AREG and EREG are stimulated, BTC is inhibited by FSH. This work was supported by FAPESP.

229 EXPRESSION OF mRNA ENCODING GLYCOLYTIC ENZYMES IN BOVINE CUMULUS CELLS DURING IN VITRO MATURATION: EFFECTS OF TIME AND FSH

Mammalian oocytes require pyruvate as an energy source for growth and resumption of meiosis. Because oocytes are not competent to carry out glycolysis, cumulus cells (CC) are responsible for metabolizing glucose into pyruvate and providing it to the oocyte through gap junctions. The understanding of the energetic metabolism of CC in culture conditions might provide basis for the improvement of COC in vitro maturation. The aim of this study was to determine the temporal patterns of mRNA expression of glycolytic enzymes [phosphofructokinase (PFKP), aldolase (ALDOA), triosephosphate isomerase (TPI), enolase (ENO1), pyruvate kinase (PKM2), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDHA)] in bovine CC during COC in vitro maturation with or without FSH. Immature COC (grades 1 and 2) were obtained from 2- to 8-mm follicles from abattoir ovaries (predominantly Bos indicus). Cumulus cells were separated from COC and frozen before (immature group) or after COC culture for 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 hours with (10 ng/mL) or without FSH. Total RNA was extracted using RNeasy® (Qiagen, Valencia, CA, USA), and 100 ng of RNA was reverse transcribed using oligo dT primers and Omniscript® (Qiagen). Relative expression of target genes was assessed by real-time PCR using bovine-specific primers and Power SYBR green master mix in an ABI Prism® 7300. To select the most stable housekeeping gene for expression normalization, cyclophilin-A (CYC-A), GAPDH, and histone H2AFZ amplification profiles were compared using the geNorm applet for Microsoft Excel (Vandesompele J et al. 2002 Genome Biol. 3, 1-11); the most stable housekeeping gene was CYC-A. Relative expression values were calculated using the AACt method with efficiency correction (Pfaffl MW 2001 Nucleic Acids Res. 29, 2002-2007). Effects of time in culture and of FSH treatment were tested by ANOVA, and groups were compared by Tukey-Kramer Honestly Significant Difference test. Nonparametric analysis was used when data were not normally distributed. Abundance of mRNA of all glycolytic enzymes decreased during in vitro maturation with or without FSH. Expression of PFKP, ALDOA, TPI1, ENO1, and LDHA genes was decreased to around half of the initial value (time 0) by 4 to 8 h of culture (P < 0.05) and did not increase thereafter. A similar expression pattern was observed for PKM2, although mRNA abundance was reduced later in comparison with other enzymes; levels were decreased by 16 (without FSH) to 20 h (with FSH) of culture. The presence of FSH did not alter the overall temporal pattern of gene expression but decreased mRNA abundance for PFKP, ALDOA, and TPI1 at 20, 16 and 16 h of culture, respectively. In conclusion, gene expression of glycolytic enzymes decreased with time during COC in vitro maturation in cattle, and FSH did not have a major influence on this expression pattern. This study was supported by CAPES and FAPESP.

230 EXPRESSION OF mRNA ENCODING FGF10 AND COGNATE RECEPTORS (FGFR1B AND FGFR2B) AROUND FOLLICLE DEVIATION IN NELORE HEIFERS

A member of the FGF7 subfamily, FGF10 acts via FGFR2B and FGFR1B. In bovine antral follicles, FGF-10 was detected in oocytes and theca cells (TC). Levels of mRNA were negatively correlated with intrafollicular concentrations of estradiol, and FGF10 inhibited estradiol production from granulosa cells (GC). In Nellore (Bos indicus), morphological divergence occurs on average 2.5 days after ovulation, when dominant follicle diameter is around 6.0 mm. To gain insight into the involvement of the FGF10 system in the control of follicle selection, we assessed mRNA expression of FGF10 in TC and of FGFR1B and FGFR2B in GC from dominant and subordinate follicles around deviation in Nellore heifers. Thirteen Nellore heifers were hormonally synchronized, and ovulation was detected by ultrasound monitoring every 12 h. Heifers were slaughtered 2 (n =4), 2.5 (n = 5), and 3 (n = 4) days after ovulation. Granulosa cells and TC were separated from the 2 largest follicles and submitted to total RNA extraction. mRNA abundance of CYP19 (aromatase), FGF10, FGFR1B, and FGFR2B was measured by real-time RT-PCR and normalized by the expression of cyclophilin A (CYCA) and GAPDH, for TC and GC, respectively. Dominant and subordinate follicles were considered those expressing the greatest and second-greatest abundance of CYP19 mRNA in GC within each heifer. Effects of follicle status and day on CYP19, FGF10, FGFR2B, and FGFR1B mRNA abundance were tested by ANOVA. On Day 2, FGFR2B mRNA abundance was greater in GC of subordinate follicles compared with dominant follicles (P = 0.006), and that of FGF10 in TC tended to exhibit the same pattern (P = 0.06). Follicle diameter was not different between dominant and subordinate follicles on Day 2 (5.5 ± 0 v. 5.12 ± 0.3 cm). On Day 2.5, FGF10 expression was greater in TC from subordinate follicles (P = 0.01), and FGFR2B expression in GC was no longer different between dominant and subordinate follicles. Follicle diameter was greater in dominant follicles on Day 2.5 (6.7 ± 0.2 v. 5.8 ± 0.3 cm; P = 0.04). On Day 3, no differences were observed between dominant and subordinate follicles for any of the genes assessed. mRNA expression of FGFR1B in GC did not change with follicle status or day. In conclusion, expression of FGF10 and FGFR2B was decreased in dominant follicles around morphological divergence, suggesting their involvement in the mechanisms controlling dominant follicle selection. As FGF10 inhibits estradiol production of GC, we propose that FGF10 and FGFR2B are suppressed in the dominant follicle to allow acquisition of full steroidogenic capacity. This research was supported by FAPESP.

Regulation and action of fibroblast growth factor 17 in bovine follicles

Fibroblast growth factor 17 (FGF17) is a member of the FGF8 subfamily that appears to be relevant to folliculogenesis and oogenesis, as the prototype member FGF8 is an oocyte-derived protein that signals to cumulus cells. FGF8 has structural and receptor-binding similarities to FGF17, whose expression in the ovary has not been reported. In this study, we demonstrate localization of FGF17 protein to the oocyte of preantral follicles, and to the oocyte and granulosa cells of antral follicles. Real-time PCR demonstrated the presence of mRNA in oocytes and, to a lesser extent, in granulosa and theca cells. FGF17 mRNA abundance was low in granulosa and theca cells from healthy follicles and increased significantly in atretic follicles. Addition of FSH or IGF-I to granulosa cells in vitro decreased FGF17 mRNA abundance, and treatment with FGF17 inhibited estradiol and progesterone secretion from granulosa cells in relation to control cultures without these additives. We conclude that FGF17 is a potential mediator of granulosa cell differentiation.

176 GENE EXPRESSION OF LUTEINIZING HORMONE RECEPTOR (LHR) ISOFORMS IN GRANULOSA CELLS OF FOLLICLES FROM NELLORE HEIFERS BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER FOLLICULAR DEVIATION

During bovine follicular development, there is a phase known as follicular deviation in which the future dominant follicle grows faster than the other follicles and acquires LH receptors (LHR). In Nellore breed, deviation occurs 2.5 days after ovulation, and at this time, the dominant follicle has in average a diameter of 6.0 mm. Some authors believe that LHRs are present in the future dominant follicle before deviation and are essential for this process. However, others are convinced that LHRs are present only during or after follicular deviation. The aim of the present experiment was to evaluate the expression of 4 LHR isoforms (M1 to M4) in granulosa cells of follicles from Nellore heifers before, during, and after follicular deviation. At a random stage of the estrous cycle (D0), Nellore heifers (n = 21) received a progesterone intravaginal device (1.0 g, Primer®, Tecnopec, Sao Paulo, Brazil) and 2.5 mg of estradiol benzoate (EB, i.m., Estrogin®, Farmavet, Sao Paulo, Brazil). Eight days later (D8) PGF2α was administered (150 μg d-cloprostenol, i.m., Prolise®, ARSA S.R.L., Buenos Aires, Argentina), and the device was removed. Twenty-four hours after device removal, cows were treated with EB (1.0 mg, i.m.), and from this point in time, the growth of the dominant follicle growth was observed by ultrasonography (US, Aloka 900, Tokyo, Japan) every 12 h. The animals were allocated in 3 groups: Group 2 (G2, 2 days after ovulation, n = 7), Group 2.5 (G2.5, 2.5 days after ovulation, n = 7), and Group 3 (G3, 3 days after ovulation, n = 7), and were slaughtered 2, 2.5, and 3 days after ovulation, respectively, in order to remove the ovaries. The granulosa cells, obtained from ovarian follicles, were separated for total RNA extraction, and the gene expression of LHR isoforms was measured by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Since LHR expression was not detected in Group 2 (follicles with 4.5 to 6.7 mm), comparisons were performed between groups G2.5 and G3 by ANOVA. The LHR expression was detected only in 2 samples of Group G2 (7.0-mm follicles) and was significantly higher in Group G3 (63.6%; follicles from 8 to 14 mm, P < 0.05). In all samples that expressed LHR, the 4 isoforms were present. It is concluded that LHR expression is present in granulosa cells of follicles from Nellore heifers after follicular deviation. Support and fellowship from FAPESP (Sao Paulo, Brazil).We are grateful to Tecnopec (Sao Paulo, Brazil) for providing intravaginal devices used in the experiment.

Expression of fibroblast growth factor receptors during development and regression of the bovine corpus luteum

There is evidence that fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) are involved in the regulation of growth and regression of the corpus luteum (CL). However, the expression pattern of most FGF receptors (FGFRs) during CL lifespan is still unknown. The objective of the present study was to determine the pattern of expression of ‘B’ and ‘C’ splice variants of FGFRs in the bovine CL. Bovine CL were collected from an abattoir and classed as corpora hemorrhagica (Stage I), developing (Stage II), developed (Stage III) or regressed (Stage IV) CL. Expression of FGFR mRNA was measured by semiquantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and FGFR protein was localised by immunohistochemistry. Expression of mRNA encoding the ‘B’ and ‘C’ spliced forms of FGFR1 and FGFR2 was readily detectable in the bovine CL and was accompanied by protein localisation. FGFR1C and FGFR2C mRNA expression did not vary throughout CL lifespan, whereas FGFR1B was upregulated in the developed (Stage III) CL. FGFR3B, FGFR3C and FGFR4 expression was inconsistent in the bovine CL. The present data indicate that FGFR1 and FGFR2 splice variants are the main receptors for FGF action in the bovine CL.

Alternative reproduction pathway in Aspergillus nidulans

Recombinant haploid segregants were recovered in filamentous fungus Aspergillus nidulans (Eidam) G. Winter directly from the heterokaryons instead of diploid segregants (process described earlier as parameiosis). In spite of the reproductive complexity of A. nidulans, parameiosis has only now been observed in this fungus. Since parameiosis was characterized by the occurrence of genetic recombination inside heterokaryotic hyphae, master strains (uvs+) and uvs mutants with high rate of both mitotic exchanges or chromosome nondisjunction were used to form heterokaryons. Two groups of mitotic segregants were recovered directly from heterokaryons--aneuploids and stable haploids. Heterokaryons formed with uvs mutants produced a higher number of parameiotic segregants compared to the heterokaryons formed with uvs+ strains. Segregants were analyzed by nutritional markers, acriflavine resistance and conidial color. Normal meiotic behavior of haploid recombinants was observed.

Differential esterase expression in developmental mutants of Aspergillus nidulans

Esterase isozymes were used to detect substrate-preference polymorphism in five strains of Aspergillus nidulans, and to show differential gene expression in developmental mutants in response to 5-azacytidine treatment. The medusa mutants B116, SM23, and M25 were selected in the presence of 5-azacytidine (5AC); also the G839 bristle mutant obtained in the absence of 5AC as well as the UT196 master strain and the normal segregant SM24 were used for the esterase studies. The esterase isozyme patterns of the A. nidulans strains observed with 4-methylumbelliferyl esters and alpha- and beta-naphthyl esters indicated a total of 18 isoesterases. Substrate preference for either 4-methylumbelliferyl esters and alpha- or beta-naphthyl esters was observed. Similarity between the different A. nidulans genotypes was 84.4-100%. The genomic similarity of the B116, SM23, and M25 mutant strains (100%) supports previous observations that specific DNA sequences might be targets for 5AC action in this filamentous fungus, and the differential expression of the Est-4 isozyme in the medusa developmental mutant and the Est-2 isozyme specifically detected in the bristle mutant G839 seems to indicate esterase isozymes as possible markers of biochemical differences among different developmental mutants of A. nidulans.

Differential esterase expression in leaves of Manihot esculenta Crantz infected with Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. manihotis

The polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis system (PAGE) and inhibition tests for biochemical characterization of alpha- and beta-esterases were used to obtain a functional classification of esterases in plants and to show a differential expression of esterases as markers of pathogenesis in cassava plants (Manihot esculenta Crantz). The characterization of alpha- and beta-esterases from leaves of M. esculenta by the PAGE system was possible using an extraction solution containing two phenol-complexing agents (PVP-40 and sodium metabisulfite), three antioxidant agents (EDTA, beta-mercaptoethanol, and DTT), and one quinone reducer (ascorbic acid). Fourteen esterase isozymes were detected in young unexpanded leaves of M. esculenta cultivars. The inhibition pattern of alpha- and beta-esterases of M. esculenta showed that Est-9 is an arylesterase, and in the unexpanded leaves of the M. esculenta plants infected with Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. manihotis, the Est-7 beta-esterase showed the characteristic staining of an alpha/beta-esterase. This diffrential expression of Est-7 isozyme in young unexpanded leaves of cassava plants can be used as a marker of pathogenesis after infection with X. axonopodis pv. manihotis.

Isozyme diversity in cassava cultivars (Manihot esculenta Crantz)

Isoenzyme electrophoresis was used as a method to determine genetic diversity in various M. esculenta cultivars collected in the Southwestern (SW) and Northwestern (NW) regions of the State of Parana, in the South region of Brazil, and in cultivars produced at the Agronomic Institute of Campinas (IAC), São Paulo State, Southeastern region of Brazil. The cultivars have been maintained by vegetative propagation for 5 years and are useful in production programs. A total of 28 loci in the acid phosphatase (ACP; EC 3.1.3.2), esterases (EST; EC 3.1.1.1), malate dehydrogenase (MDH; EC 1.1.1.37), and shikimate dehydrogenase (SKDH; EC 1.1.1.15) isozymes was analyzed. The proportion of polymorphic loci for NW, SW, and IAC cultivars was 57.14, 50.0, and 53.6% respectively. Genetic diversity calculated by Nei's genetic identity (I) showed high I values for the three M. esculenta subpopulations. The high degree of polymorphism expressed by cassava cultivars is highly relevant to stimulate breeding programs with M. esculenta species.

Two-dimensional electrophoresis of Cereus peruvianus (Cactaceae) callus tissue proteins

Two-dimensional electrophoresis of Cereus peruvianus callus tissues grown in culture media containing two different 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and kinetin combinations was used to identify minor differences in polypeptide composition of these cell clones. Altered expression during growth in the two 2,4-D and kinetin combinations was apparent for 13 polypeptides when calluses in the two media were compared. The number of proteins with differential expression (presence or absence of specific spots) was higher in callus tissues cultured in the 4.0 mg/L 2,4-D and 8.0 mg/L kinetin combination than in callus tissues cultured in the 4.0 mg/L 2,4-D and 4.0 mg/L kinetin combination. The present results show that the callus tissues maintained at 4.0 mg/L 2,4-D and 8.0 mg/L kinetin can be used as a matrix for in vitro selection programs.

Isozyme variability in plants regenerated from calli of Cereus peruvianus (Cactaceae)

Morphological and isozyme variation was observed among plants regenerated from callus cultures of Cereus peruvianus. Different morphological types of shoots (68%) were observed in 4-year-old regenerated plants, while no distinct morphological variants were observed in plants grown from germinated seeds. Isozyme patterns of 633 plants regenerated from calli and of 261 plants grown from germinated seeds showed no variation in isocitrate dehydrogenase isozyme, and the differential sorbitol dehydrogenase, alcohol dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase, acid phosphatase, and peroxidase isozyme patterns observed in regenerated plants were attributed to nonallelic variation. Allelic variation was detected at three isoesterase loci. The proportion of polymorphic loci for both populations was 13.6% and the deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for the Est-1 and Est-7 loci observed in somaclones was attributed to the manner in which the regenerant population was established. The high values for genetic identity among regenerant and seed-grown plant populations are in accordance with the low levels of interpopulation genetic divergence. In somaclones of C. peruvianus, morphological divergence was achieved within a short time but was not associated with any isozyme changes and also was not accompanied by biochemical genetic divergence.

Malate dehydrogenase isozymes (MDH; EC 1.1.1.37) in long-term callus culture of Cereus peruvianus (Cactaceae) exposed to sugar and temperature stress

Malate dehydrogenase (MDH; EC 1.1.1.37) isozymes in long-term callus tissue culture of Cereus peruvianus were studied in starch gel electrophoresis to investigate the control of differential Mdh gene expression under sugar and temperature stress. While two cytosol MDH isozymes showed an unchanged phenotype when the callus tissues were transferred to medium maintained at 22 or 37 degrees C and containing different concentrations of sucrose, glucose, and fructose, the different combinations of five mitochondrial MDH (mtMDH) and two micro-body MDH (mbMDH) showed different MDH isozyme patterns in the callus populations. Differential expression of mtMDH isozymes seems to be modulated at the posttranslational level in callus tissues exposed to different concentrations and types of sugar and to high-temperature and low-temperature stress. An inductor effect on the expression of mbMDH isozymes was observed under stress conditions and in long-term callus tissue, and they may also present different responses.

Differential alcohol dehydrogenase and malate dehydrogenase isozyme expression in long-term callus tissue cultures of Cereus peruvianus (Cactaceae)

Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and mitochondrial malate dehydrogenase (mMDH) isozymes were tested as markers to study the effect of a high kinetin concentration on isozyme phenotypes and on the development of Cereus peruvianus callus tissue culture. Three-year-old callus tissues were used as samples. Callus tissue samples grown on 4.0 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and on 4.0 and 8.0 mg/L N-(2-furanylmethyl)-1H-purine-6 amine (kinetin) were cut and transferred to fresh medium containing 4.0 mg/L 2,4-D and 4.0, 8.0, 16.0, and 32 mg/L kinetin combinations. The pattern of changes observed in the ADH and mMDH isozymes as well as the growth of callus tissues was independent of the concentrations tested. The various ADH and mMDH isozymes seem to be products of differential association of subunits of the two Adh and two mMdh genes. Both genes are active throughout callus tissue development; however, gene expression changed with various callus culture condictions. This study addresses how long-term callus culture condictions affect constitutive and differential gene expression of the Adh and mMdh genes in C. peruvianus.

Isozyme patterns in callus cultures and in plants regenerated from calli of Cereus peruvianus (Cactaceae)

Electrophoretic patterns for isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH; EC 1.1.1.42), acid phosphatase (ACP; EC 3.1.3.2), peroxidase (PER; EC 1.11.1.7), and esterase (EST; EC 3.1.1.1) isozymes were determined in Cereus peruvianus tissues and used as markers of genetic uniformity of calli and of the plants regenerated from callus cultures. One IDH, six ACP, six PER, and six EST isozymes were induced in cultured callus tissues in medium containing three 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid and kinetin combinations. Four ACP, two PER, and three EST isozymes were still present in all regenerated plants in vitro and therefore can be used as markers of the C. peruvianus plants regenerated from callus tissues. The differential patterns of ACP and IDH isozymes and the similar zymograms for PER and EST isozymes presented by callus tissues were used in a comparison of callus tissues cultured for 2 years. The comparative analysis of zymograms within each enzyme system indicated a mean heterogeneity coefficient of 0.33 for C. peruvianus calli cultured for 2 years. Because of the isozyme variations, which developed in culture medium and were transferred to the regenerated plants, the IDH, ACP, PER, and EST enzyme systems can be considered to be good markers for investigating possible genetic variations in plant populations of C. peruvianus obtained in vitro from callus culture.

Alcohol dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.1) isozymes as markers at 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid x kinetin combinations in callus cultures of Cereus peruvianus (Cactaceae)

Alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH; EC 1.1.1.1) isozymes were investigated in tissue of Cereus peruvianus cultured in different concentrations of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and kinetin. Five ADH isozymes were detected in starch gel and showed different patterns in seeds, seedlings, calli cultured at 32 and 22 degrees C, and plants regenerated from calli cultured in three 2,4-D and kinetin combinations. Four phenotypes formed by different combinations of ADH-2, ADH-3, ADH-4, and ADH-5 were detected in calli cultured at 32 degrees C and in plants regenerated from calli. ADH-1 isozyme was detected only in calli subcultured for 1 or 2 weeks at 22 degrees C and was indicated as a marker of stress conditions that affect the growth of C. peruvianus callus tissues in culture. ADH phenotypes with either a higher or a lower number of isozymes were detected in different proportions in the callus tissues cultured in media containing different 2,4-D and kinetin ratios. ADH isozyme patterns were found to be sensitive markers at the highest kinetin concentration or at high kinetin/2,4-D ratios. The results indicate a high correlation between the ADH isozyme patterns and the capacity for regeneration. Thus, ADH isozymes are indicated as good biochemical markers and as a powerful tool for monitoring studies of C. peruvianus callus cultures.

Malate dehydrogenase (MDH; EC 1.1.1.37) isozymes in tissues and callus cultures of Cereus peruvianus (Cactaceae)

Malate dehydrogenase (MDH; EC 1.1.1.37) isozymes were investigated in seeds and in seedlings and calli cultures of C. peruvianus to determine if the changes in MDH isozyme banding patterns could be used as biochemical markers to identify the origin of regenerated plants from callus tissues. Four cytoplasmic MDH isozymes (sMDH), five mitochondrial MDH isozymes (mMDH), and one glyoxysomal MDH isozyme (gMDH) were detected and showed tissue- and stage-specific expression. A relationship of mMDH and gMDH isozyme patterns with callus tissues subcultured in three hormonal combinations and with the plants regenerated from these callus tissues was demonstrated. Furthermore, temperature and mechanical stress were found to be closely related to mMDH-1 activity in callus culture. Therefore, the different patterns of MDH isozymes in the various tissues of C. peruvianus can be used as biochemical markers for the study of gene expression during development and as powerful tools in monitoring studies on callus cultures.

Glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase isozyme variation in adult meliponids (Hymenoptera: Apidae)

Glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-3-PDH) isozymes were investigated in several bee and wasp species to verify if variations detected in G-3-PDH-2 isozymes are closely related to the age and activity of adult workers in the nest or hive of social species. In the solitary, the semisocial, and one social bee species, no phenotypic variations were detected for G-3-PDH-2 isozymes, and this was also the case for all wasp species investigated which were characterized as social. These results allow us to suggest that the variation detected in G-3-PDH-2 isozymes is a phenomenon closely related not only to adult age and activity in the hive, but also to a gradual acquisition of the ability to fly, which is not present in newly emerged worker meliponids in particular.

Glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-3-PDH; EC 1.1.1.8) variation in Brazilian stingless bees and in wasp species

In only 1 bee species (Tetragona clavipes) of 24 sampled in 145 colonies (0.69%) did we detect the presence of more than one allele for glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (EC 1.1.1.8), an enzyme that is involved in flight. In 34 colonies containing 9 wasp species, 5 colonies of only 2 species (Polybia paulista and P. sericea) showed variation in larval G-3-PDH (14.7%). The small amount of variation observed for the G-3-PDH-1 locus in the bee and wasp species analyzed in the present study agrees with that reported for the G-3-PDH system in other insects.