Cell-free, high-density lipoprotein-specific phospholipid efflux assay predicts incident cardiovascular disease

BACKGROUNDCellular cholesterol efflux capacity (CEC) is a better predictor of cardiovascular disease (CVD) events than HDL-cholesterol (HDL-C) but is not suitable as a routine clinical assay.METHODSWe developed an HDL-specific phospholipid efflux (HDL-SPE) assay to assess HDL functionality based on whole plasma HDL apolipoprotein-mediated solubilization of fluorescent phosphatidylethanolamine from artificial lipid donor particles. We first assessed the association of HDL-SPE with prevalent coronary artery disease (CAD): study I included NIH severe-CAD (n = 50) and non-CAD (n = 50) participants, who were frequency matched for sex, BMI, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and smoking; study II included Japanese CAD (n = 70) and non-CAD (n = 154) participants. We also examined the association of HDL-SPE with incident CVD events in the Prevention of Renal and Vascular End-stage Disease (PREVEND) study comparing 340 patients with 340 controls individually matched for age, sex, smoking, and HDL-C levels.RESULTSReceiver operating characteristic curves revealed stronger associations of HDL-SPE with prevalent CAD. The AUCs in study I were as follows: HDL-SPE, 0.68; apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I), 0.62; HDL-C, 0.63; and CEC, 0.52. The AUCs in study II were as follows: HDL-SPE, 0.83; apoA-I, 0.64; and HDL-C, 0.53. Also longitudinally, HDL-SPE was significantly associated with incident CVD events independent of traditional risk factors with ORs below 0.2 per SD increment in the PREVEND study (P < 0.001).CONCLUSIONHDL-SPE could serve as a routine clinical assay for improving CVD risk assessment and drug discovery.TRIAL REGISTRATIONClinicalTrials.gov NCT01621594.FUNDINGNHLBI Intramural Research Program, NIH (HL006095-06).

γGT and PCSK9 variants in subjects with hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Gain-of-function (GOF) variants of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) gene cause high blood low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and PCSK9 levels, which are respectively the markers of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High blood activity of gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (γGT), a pro-oxidant induced by oxidative conditions, is also a marker of CVD. There may be an association between γGT and PCSK9 variants. We aimed to examine the γGT activity by a GOF variant, p.E32K, of PCSK9 in subjects with hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia, an at-risk state for CVD.

METHODS

This study enrolled 114 subjects (mean age, 59 years; 38 males) with hyper-LDL-cholesterolemia who underwent a genotype assay for identification of p.E32K variant and enzymatic measurement of γGT activity. The relationship between the γGT activity and p.E32K was analyzed.

RESULTS

γGT activity was significantly lower (median, 21 IU/L) in subjects with p.E32K (n = 12) than in those without the variant (30 IU/L, P < 0.05). The results remained confirmed by multivariate-adjusted analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

An inverse association was found between γGT and p.E32K, a GOF variant. Elucidation of the mechanism for their association may help understand the development of CVD by PCSK9 variants.

A novel loop-mediated isothermal amplification-based genotyping method and its application for identifying proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 variants in familial hypercholesterolemia

BACKGROUND

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) plays a key role in regulating low-density lipoprotein levels in plasma. While PCSK9 variants are causatively associated with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), additional genotyping methods for FH targeting PCSK9 variants are required in a clinical setting. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a unique amplification method that amplifies a target gene under isothermal conditions (60-65 °C). However, a robust standardized method has not yet been established for LAMP-based genetic screening tests for genetic diseases, including FH. The present study aimed to develop a novel modification of the LAMP method designed to genotype single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and to apply it for the detection of PCSK9 variants.

METHODS

Using short quenching probes (≤ 10 nucleotides) for the loop structures of LAMP amplicons, accurate detection of SNVs was verified separately for each allele, without any additional procedures, within 3 h. The diagnostic performance of this method in detecting PCSK9 variants was validated in FH patients.

RESULTS

All PCSK9 variants tested via conventional sequencing in FH patients were successfully detected using this novel LAMP method.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a LAMP-based genotyping method to detect PCSK9 variants in FH. Compared to conventional sequencing, our genotyping method is relatively convenient and time-efficient and is suitable for the screening of FH in clinical settings. Future studies on various genes are also warranted.

LDL-cholesterol and PCSK9 in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia: influence of PCSK9 variants under lipid-lowering therapy

Background

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an autosomal dominant genetic disease with the elevated levels of low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (LDL‐C), increases the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) gene is associated with FH. There is a positive relationship between circulating LDL‐C and PCSK9 levels, a potential CAD condition, without lipid‐lowering therapy (LLT); however, we do not know whether their correlation exists in FH patients under LLT.

Methods

This study compared the correlation of PCSK9 variants among patients with FH under LLT (n = 70; mean age, 53 years; male, 63%). LDLR, PCSK9 and APOB variants were analyzed using next‐generation sequencing.

Results

The LDL‐C and PCSK9 levels in patients with gain‐of‐function (GOF) variants of PCSK9 (n = 7) were mostly similar to those in patients with LDLR variants (n = 17) or variant‐negative patients (n = 46). A significant positive correlation was observed between LDL‐C and PCSK9 levels in patients with GOF variants of PCSK9 (r = 0.79, p = 0.04), but not in patients with LDLR variants or variant‐negative patients.

Conclusion

The LDL‐C‐PCSK9 correlation is suggested to be retained in FH patients with GOF variants of PCSK9 even under LLT, and these variants can be used as molecular markers for additional treatment with statins in FH patients.

The Effect of Helicobacter pylori Eradication on Lipid Levels: A Meta-Analysis

Introduction:Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is positively associated with cardiovascular diseases, but the involvement of lipids in this association remains unclear. The present study reviewed the changes in circulating lipid levels following H. pylori eradication. Methods: A PubMed database was searched until December 2020 to identify randomized control trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs investigating the effect of H. pylori eradication on the lipid levels in inverse variance-weighted, random-effects meta-analyses. Results: A total of 24 studies (four RCTs and 20 non-RCTs) with 5270 participants were identified. The post-eradication levels were increased for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C; mean difference (MD) 2.28 mg/dL, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.90 to 2.66) and triglyceride (TG; MD 3.22 mg/dL, 95% CI 1.13 to 5.31) compared with the pre-eradication levels. H. pylori eradication resulted in little to no difference in the low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels (MD −2.33 mg/dL, 95% CI −4.92 to 0.26). In the analyses of RCTs only, the findings for elevated HDL-C levels, but not TG, were robust. Conclusions:H. pylori eradication increases the HDL-C levels. Further studies are needed to elucidate the effects of lipid changes following H. pylori eradication on cardiovascular diseases.

Immune complexome analysis reveals the presence of immune complexes and identifies disease-specific immune complex antigens in saliva samples from patients with Sjögren's syndrome

Sjögren's syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that mainly damages the salivary and lacrimal glands. Immune complex (IC) formation triggers local inflammation through IC deposition and decreased antigen function. Some ICs can leak from the lesion and into the saliva, but no salivary ICs have been reported to date. We used immune complexome analysis to comprehensively identify antigens incorporated into IC (IC-antigens) in saliva samples from patients with SS (n = 9) or with xerostomia (n = 7). Neutrophil defensin 1 (67%), small proline-rich protein 2D (67%), myeloperoxidase (44%), neutrophil elastase (44%), cathepsin G (33%), nuclear mitotic apparatus 1 (33%) and phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate 3-kinase C2 domain-containing subunit gamma (33%) were identified as new IC-antigens specifically and frequently detected in the saliva of SS patients. Of these, neutrophil defensin 1, myeloperoxidase, neutrophil elastase and cathepsin G are neutrophil intracellular proteins, which suggests that repeated destruction of neutrophils due to abnormal autoimmunity may be involved in the pathogenesis of SS. We also analyzed serum samples from three SS patients. There was little overlap of IC-antigens between two of the samples (fewer than 30% of the IC-antigens in the saliva samples), suggesting that many ICs are formed locally and independently of the circulation. In addition, we found that four SS-specific salivary antigens show sequence homology with several proteins of oral microbiomes but no antigen has homology with Epstein-Barr virus proteins. The homology between some IC-antigens and oral microbiome proteins may indicate the impact of oral infection on local autoimmunity through molecular mimicry theory.

Lipoprotein(a) and Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Short Review Including the Laboratory Viewpoint

Lipoprotein(a) (Lp(a)) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) are risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) have a risk for CVD due to a high LDL-C value. Lp(a) also increases the CVD risk in FH individuals; thus, the Lp(a) value should be carefully managed. The LDL-C value may partly include Lp(a)-cholesterol (Lp(a)-C) in the measurement. Based on the LDL-C value, some individuals are likely misclassified as having FH and/or the status of treatment of FH can be monitored. The present review describes about Lp(a) in FH individuals in terms of the measurement issue of Lp(a) and the related management of FH.

Fully Automated Molecular Diagnostic System "Simprova" for Simultaneous Testing of Multiple Items

Nucleic acid amplification-based diagnostics is known as one of the molecular diagnostic systems that allows higher sensitive detection of pathogens than test methods such as immunoassay. However, it has not been widely used because it is complicated to use and takes a long time to generate results. On the other hand, development of fully automated molecular diagnostic systems has been growing around the world as demand for such systems from physicians and laboratory technicians has increased. To meet this demand, we have developed the "Simprova" fully automated molecular diagnostic system, which takes advantage of LAMP (Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification), a method Eiken Chemical Co., Ltd. invented. Simprova comprises a master unit that controls the entire system and a test unit that extracts and purifies nucleic acid from samples (pretreatment), and uses the LAMP method to detect and amplify nucleic acid. Users can obtain test results automatically by simply installing a pretreatment cartridge, a multi-well testing chip and the sample in the test unit. The multi-well testing chip has 25 reaction wells connected by channels and enables simultaneous testing of multiple targets with one sample. Turnaround time for one test is approximately 30 minutes. Since a conventional extraction and purification method using magnetic-bead separation is used for the pretreatment, nucleic acid can be extracted from serum, plasma, whole blood, urine, and sputum, for example. In addition, the system can perform random-access testing by connecting four test units to the master unit to realize near-the-patient testing. Simprova is therefore a robust and useful system for a wide variety of applications.

CD73 complexes with emmprin to regulate MMP-2 production from co-cultured sarcoma cells and fibroblasts

Background

Interaction between cancer cells and fibroblasts mediated by extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (emmprin, CD147) is important in the invasion and proliferation of cancer cells. However, the exact mechanism of emmprin mediated stimulation of matrix metalloprotease-2 (MMP-2) production from fibroblasts has not been elucidated. Our previous studies using an inhibitory peptide against emmprin suggested the presence of a molecule on the cell membrane which forms a complex with emmprin. Here we show that CD73 expressed on fibroblasts interacts with emmprin and is a required factor for MMP-2 production in co-cultures of sarcoma cells with fibroblasts.

Methods

CD73 along with CD99 was identified by mass spectrometry analysis as an emmprin interacting molecule from a co-culture of cancer cells (epithelioid sarcoma cell line FU-EPS-1) and fibroblasts (immortalized fibroblasts cell line ST353i). MMP-2 production was measured by immunoblot and ELISA. The formation of complexes of CD73 with emmprin was confirmed by immunoprecipitation, and their co-localization in tumor cells and fibroblasts was shown by fluorescent immunostaining and proximity ligation assays.

Results

Stimulated MMP-2 production in co-culture of cancer cells and fibroblasts was completely suppressed by siRNA knockdown of CD73, but not by CD99 knockdown. MMP-2 production was not suppressed by CD73-specific enzyme inhibitor (APCP). However, MMP-2 production was decreased by CD73 neutralizing antibodies, suggesting that CD73-mediated suppression of MMP-2 production is non-enzymatic. In human epithelioid sarcoma tissues, emmprin was immunohistochemically detected to be mainly expressed in tumor cells, and CD73 was expressed in fibroblasts and tumor cells: emmprin and CD73 were co-localized predominantly on tumor cells.

Conclusion

This study provides a novel insight into the role of CD73 in emmprin-mediated regulation of MMP-2 production.

Functional implication of archaeal homologues of human RNase P protein pair Pop5 and Rpp30

PhoPop5 and PhoRpp30 in the hyperthermophilic archaeon Pyrococcus horikoshii, homologues of human ribonuclease P (RNase P) proteins hPop5 and Rpp30, respectively, fold into a heterotetramer [PhoRpp30-(PhoPop5)2-PhoRpp30], which plays a crucial role in the activation of RNase P RNA (PhopRNA). Here, we examined the functional implication of PhoPop5 and PhoRpp30 in the tetramer. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis revealed that the tetramer strongly interacts with an oligonucleotide including the nucleotide sequence of a stem-loop SL3 in PhopRNA. In contrast, PhoPop5 had markedly reduced affinity to SL3, whereas PhoRpp30 had little affinity to SL3. SPR studies of PhoPop5 mutants further revealed that the C-terminal helix (α4) in PhoPop5 functions as a molecular recognition element for SL3. Moreover, gel filtration indicated that PhoRpp30 exists as a monomer, whereas PhoPop5 is an oligomer in solution, suggesting that PhoRpp30 assists PhoPop5 in attaining a functionally active conformation by shielding hydrophobic surfaces of PhoPop5. These results, together with available data, allow us to generate a structural and mechanistic model for the PhopRNA activation by PhoPop5 and PhoRpp30, in which the two C-terminal helices (α4) of PhoPop5 in the tetramer whose formation is assisted by PhoRpp30 act as binding elements and bridge SL3 and SL16 in PhopRNA.

Treatment selection for cerebral arteriovenous malformations: radiosurgery or microsurgery

The clinical results and patient characteristics of 318 cases of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) were analyzed: 138 patients were treated by surgery including 98 cases of total removal and 17 cases of subtotal removal; 37 patients were treated conservatively; 139 patients were treated by gamma-knife and 6 patients were treated by linac-knife radiosurgery using stereotactic multi-converging arcs systems. Clinical data analysis was performed using the same protocol in both of the surgery and the radiosurgery groups. Operative mortality for total removal was one out of 98 cases (1%). There was one death by hemorrhage, one case of symptomatic rebleeding and two cases of asymptomatic bleeding in patients treated by radiosurgery. Thus, mortality was 1 out of 145 (0.7%). Patients with total resection of AVMs had the best clinical results in comparison with subtotal resection or with conservative treatment. Morbidity was the lowest in the patients treated by radiosurgery. However, the total obliteration rate was lower than the surgical cure rate. The decision for treatment should be based on an estimation of mortality, morbidity and cure rate for each treatment.

Biological pathways and in vivo antitumor activity induced by Atiprimod in myeloma

Atiprimod (Atip) is a novel oral agent with anti-inflammatory properties. Although its in vitro activity and effects on signaling in multiple myeloma (MM) have been previously reported, here we investigated its molecular and in vivo effects in MM. Gene expression analysis of MM cells identified downregulation of genes involved in adhesion, cell-signaling, cell cycle and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) pathways and upregulation of genes implicated in apoptosis and bone development, following Atip treatment. The pathway analysis identified integrin, TGF-beta and FGF signaling as well as Wnt/beta-catenin, IGF1 and cell-cycle regulation networks as being most modulated by Atip treatment. We further evaluated its in vivo activity in three mouse models. The subcutaneous model confirmed its in vivo activity and established its dose; the SCID-hu model using INA-6 cells, confirmed its ability to overcome the protective effects of BM milieu; and the SCID-hu model using primary MM cells reconfirmed its activity in a model closest to human disease. Finally, we observed reduced number of osteoclasts and modulation of genes related to BMP pathways. Taken together, these data demonstrate the in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity of Atip, delineate potential molecular targets triggered by this agent, and provide a preclinical rational for its clinical evaluation in MM.

The value of tumor volume in surgically resected non-small cell lung cancer

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether or not tumor volume (TV) has an impact on survival in non-small cell lung cancer.

METHODS

In a retrospective analysis of 385 cases with NSCLC who underwent curative surgery between 1994 and 2003, we calculated the tumor volume by using an ellipsoidal formula. The patients were grouped according to TV as determined by histograms. Gender, age, histology, nodal involvement, size, and TV were analyzed. Multivariate analysis by Cox's proportional hazards regression model was performed to identify the prognosis.

RESULTS

Cases of N0 showed a significantly lower TV than cases with other N statuses (p < 0.05). A significant difference was also observed between TV and histology or gender. The 189 patients belonging to the small volume group (SVG) (range, 0.105 to 9.265 cm3) had a significantly better overall survival rate than the other 196 patients in the large volume group (LVG) (9.266-366.522 cm3). With univariate analysis, gender, age, nodal involvement, size, and TV were significantly associated with prognosis. Multivariate analysis showed that only gender (p = 0.0184) and nodal involvement (p = 0.0001) were significantly independent prognostic factors. The size factor was not significant (p = 0.5285). However, TV was not an independent factor, but trending toward significance (p = 0.0801).

CONCLUSIONS

Although TV provides no independent prognostic information with multivariate analysis, TV in NSCLC should be considered using volumetric measurement with a three-dimensional CT approach prior to surgery or treatment planning.

Antimyeloma activity of two novel N-substituted and tetraflourinated thalidomide analogs

Thalidomide alone or in combination with steroids has significant activity in multiple myeloma (MM). However, given its teratogenic potential, analogs have been synthesized, retaining the anti-MM activity without these side effects. We examined the anti-MM activity of two thalidomide analogs, CPS11 and CPS49. Direct cytotoxicity of the drugs on myeloma cell lines and patient myeloma cells was examined using thymidine uptake. Tumor cell apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry as well as Western blotting for caspase and PARP cleavage. Cellular signaling events were examined by immunoblotting for phosphorylated proteins. Both drugs inhibit proliferation of several MM cell lines sensitive and resistant to conventional therapies. They decrease secretion of IL-6, IGF, and VEGF by marrow stromal cells. Importantly, they inhibit proliferation of MM cells adherent to stromal cells. These drugs induce caspase-mediated apoptosis in MM cell lines, as well as patient MM cells. They inhibit the PI3K/Akt and JAK/STAT (signal transducers and activators of transcription) pathways in MM cells and are antiangiogenic in matrigel-based assays. CPS11 and CPS49 have potent antimyeloma activity and can overcome protective effects of the tumor microenvironment. They have potent antiangiogenic activity and direct effect on bone marrow stroma. These encouraging preclinical data provide the basis for further evaluation in the clinic.

Imbalance between apoptosis and telomerase activity in myelodysplastic syndromes: possible role in ineffective hemopoiesis

The myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of disorders characterized by peripheral pancytopenia despite normo- or hyper-cellular bone marrow. This is thought to be due to apoptosis of hematopoietic bone marrow cells, resulting in ineffective hematopoiesis. The heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) B1 is involved in pre-mRNA processing and binds to telomeric cDNA repeats. The hnRNP B1 is a marker for early cancer. The aim of our study was to clarify the relationships between prognosis and apoptosis, telomerase activity (TA) and hnRNP expression in the bone marrow. The subjects were 51 patients with MDS, including patients with refractory anemia (RA) (n = 32), refractory anemia with ringed sideroblasts (RARS) (n = 1), refractory anemia with excess blasts (RAEB) (n = 7), refractory anemia with excess blasts in transformation (RAEB-t) (n = 8) and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMMoL) (n = 3). We also studied 6 cases with acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) arising from MDS (AML-MDS) and 10 control subjects. Bone marrow biopsies were stained immunohistochemically for caspase-3 (marker of apoptotic activity) and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), and hnRNP B1. Fatal pancytopenia was the cause of death in 19 of the 51 patients. The caspase-3 positive cell rate was higher in MDS (16.3%) than in controls (4.4%) and AML-MDS (0.5%). The percentage of hnRNP B1-positive cells was higher in MDS (15.3%) and AML-MDS (56.3%) than in controls (5.6%). In MDS, hnRNP B1 levels were higher in RAEB and RAEB-t subtypes than in RA and RARS. The percentage of hTERT-positive cells was higher in AML-MDS (50.0%) than in controls (20.2%) and MDS (23.6%). Our findings suggest that activation of apoptosis occurs in MDS in the absence of hTERT expression, implicating high apoptosis in the absence of high TA with ineffective hematopoiesis. Poor prognosis correlated with higher caspase-3 and lower hTERT rates. In MDS, hnRNP B1 activity may be associated with leukemic transformation.

Autophagosome requires specific early Sec proteins for its formation and NSF/SNARE for vacuolar fusion

Double membrane structure, autophagosome, is formed de novo in the process of autophagy in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and many Apg proteins participate in this process. To further understand autophagy, we analyzed the involvement of factors engaged in the secretory pathway. First, we showed that Sec18p (N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein, NSF) and Vti1p (soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein attachment protein, SNARE), and soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive fusion protein receptor are required for fusion of the autophagosome to the vacuole but are not involved in autophagosome formation. Second, Sec12p was shown to be essential for autophagy but not for the cytoplasm to vacuole-targeting (Cvt) (pathway, which shares mostly the same machinery with autophagy. Subcellular fractionation and electron microscopic analyses showed that Cvt vesicles, but not autophagosomes, can be formed in sec12 cells. Three other coatmer protein (COPII) mutants, sec16, sec23, and sec24, were also defective in autophagy. The blockage of autophagy in these mutants was not dependent on transport from endoplasmic reticulum-to-Golgi, because mutations in two other COPII genes, SEC13 and SEC31, did not affect autophagy. These results demonstrate the requirement for subgroup of COPII proteins in autophagy. This evidence demonstrating the involvement of Sec proteins in the mechanism of autophagosome formation is crucial for understanding membrane flow during the process.

Electrophysiological studies and physical examinations in entrapment neuropathy: sensory and motor functions compensation for the central nervous system in cases with peripheral nerve damage

We performed electrophysiological studies and objective physical examinations in 60 patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and 21 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome. Compared with our normal data, the sensory nerve conduction velocity across the wrist was defined as abnormal in 97% of the carpal tunnel syndrome patients, the corresponding value of the amplitude of the sensory nerve action potential was 58% and the value of the two point discrimination test was 28% while the value of the Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test was defined as abnormal in 64% of the cases. In cubital tunnel syndrome patients, motor nerve conduction velocity across the elbow was defined as abnormal in 91%, the amplitude of the M-wave was 96%, manual muscle testing was 63% and their side pinch strength was defined as abnormal in 24% of the cases. The functions of recognition are preserved in the cases with moderate damage of peripheral nerve due to the cancellation of synaptic occlusion. Motor performance also compensated in the central nervous system. Therefore the sensitivity of the objective physical examination is less than that of electrophysiological study of peripheral nerve itself. For entrapment neuropathy electrophysiological findings are more sensitive than the objective physical examinations.

Expression of hnRNP B1 in four major histological types of lung cancers

Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein B1 is one of the nuclear pre-mRNA binding proteins involved in RNA metabolism. Recently, over-expression of B1 has been reported to be useful in the early detection of squamous cell carcinomas of the lung. To elucidate its significance in other histological types of lung cancers, we carried out a comparative study, four major types of lung cancers and normal lung tissues. 37 surgical specimens were examined using a B1-specific monoclonal antibody (2B2). Immunohistochemically, 2B2 demonstrated B1 protein in the nuclei not only of squamous cell carcinoma (10/10) but also of adenocarcinoma (17/18), small cell carcinoma (5/5) and large cell carcinoma (3/4). A lesser amount of B1 protein was also detected in normal cells. Quantitative immunoblotting revealed that B1 expression was markedly higher in cancer tissues than normal tissues and it varied among the four histological types. To establish the usefulness of B1, a threshold should be set for over-expression.

Interaction of hnRNP A2/B1 isoforms with telomeric ssDNA and the in vitro function

Overexpression of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein (hnRNP) A2/B1, especially of B1 has been reported as a useful marker to detect cancers in early stage, although the biological reason is not clear. A2/B1 proteins were previously reported to bind telomeric DNA repeats. Alternative splicing of A2/B1 gene produces abundant A2, less abundant B1, and testis-specific minor isoforms B0a and B0b. In this study, B1 and B0b that have the N-terminal 12 amino acid insertion were suggested to have higher affinities to telomeric single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) than A2 and B0a. Kinetic analyses using purified B1 and B0b indicated that they interact dynamically with a single array of telomeric repeats. Furthermore, functional assays demonstrated that B1 and B0b bind with telomeric repeats in a tandem fashion and protect them from a nuclease and promote telomerase activity. A2/B1 proteins, especially B1 and B0b, may function as telomeric ssDNA-binding proteins in cancer and reproductive cells.

Mutation analysis of mitotic checkpoint genes (hBUB1 and hBUBR1) and microsatellite instability in adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is a neoplasm of T-lymphocytes, and human T-cell lymphotropic virus type-I (HTLV-I) is etiologically considered as the causative virus of ATLL. The karyotypes of ATLL are very complex in both number and structure, although no specific karyotype abnormalities have been identified. HTLV-I is thought to integrate its provirus into random sites in host chromosomal DNA and induces chromosomal instability. The BUB gene is a component of the mitotic checkpoint in budding yeast. Recently, human homologues of the BUB were identified and mutant alleles of hBUB1 and hBUBR1 were detected in two colorectal tumor cell lines, which showed microsatellite instability (MIN). In vitro, BUB proteins form a complex of monomers. These proteins interact with the human MAD1 gene product, a target of the HTLV-1 tax oncogene. We examined the role of checkpoint gene in the chromosomal abnormalities of ATLL by investigating mutations of hBUB1 and hBUBR1, and MIN of replication errors of BAX, insulin-like growth factor, and transforming growth factor beta type II. We analyzed ten cases with ATLL and eight B-cell lymphomas (five diffuse large cell lymphomas, three follicular lymphomas). Complex chromosomal abnormalities were detected in ATLL, while B-cell lymphomas showed only simple or minimal chromosomal abnormalities. Significant mutations/deletion of hBUB1 or hBUBR1 were detected in four of ten cases with ATLL, including two heterozygous point mutations, one homozygous point mutation, and one with a 47 bp deletion. In contrast, only one of eight B-cell lymphomas showed nonsense mutation of hBUBR1. None of the ATLL and B-cell lymphomas showed MIN. In the multistage process of leukemogenesis of ATLL, our findings indicate that mutations of mitotic checkpoint genes may play an important role in the induction of complex chromosomal abnormalities.

Closed-Wedge osteotomy for osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum. A 7- to 12-year follow-up

This article details a 7- to 12-year follow-up of seven young male baseball players with osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum that we treated using closed-wedge osteotomy. This procedure was established by Yoshizu in 1986 for the treatment of "Little League elbow." The bone of the capitellum was revascularized and remodeled within 6 months in all seven patients. Six of the patients were able to return to full athletic activity and continued to play baseball. Radiographic assessment during the follow-up study revealed minimal osteoarthritic change and suggests that the treatment is useful for such an injury.

Matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases in joint fluid of the patients with loose artificial hip joints

The pseudojoint cavity formed in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) is later remodeled to synovial membrane-like tissue, which produces pseudosynovial fluid. This pseudosynovium also is an important source of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). As it is widely speculated that synovial fluid MMPs may contribute to local tissue degradation in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA), we hypothesize that locally produced MMPs are found in the pseudosynovial fluid, via which they have access to the implant-host interface, and that if they retain their proteolytic potential, they might contribute to aseptic loosening. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), immunoblotting, and zymography were used to analyze MMPs and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in synovial fluid in aseptic loosening, which was compared to RA and OA. Pseudosynovial THA fluid was characterized using low levels of MMP-1 but moderate levels of MMP-13 and MT1-MMP (MMP-14). Due to the lack of an appropriate assay, MMP-13 and MT1-MMP were not similarly assessed, but the immunoblotting indicated that they were in the 56 kD intermediate proteolytically processed forms. The MMP-9 level was intermediate between RA and OA. MMP-2 was on a significant level, but there were no differences among study groups. The THA group also was characterized using relatively high levels of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2. Accordingly, MMP-9 and MMP-2 were found to occur in the 92 kD and 72 kD proenzyme form, respectively, with full activity retained in all study groups. The data suggest that proMMP-2-TIMP-2 and proMMP-9-TIMP-1 complexes are formed in the pseudosynovial fluid due to the excess of TIMPs over MMPs in aseptic loosening of THA. TIMP-complexed MMPs are resistant to MMP-mediated proteolytic activation, which may explain their latency and proenzyme zymogen form. Thus, formation of stabilizing proMMP-TIMP complexes enable transportation of proMMPs far from their original site of production. Due to motion-associated cyclic changes of the intra-articular pressure, fluid-phase MMPs stabilized by TIMPs might be absorbed to implant surfaces and interface tissues and help to dissect the implant/cement-to-bone interface in situ. Consequently, they may contribute to local proteolytic/tissue destructive events and aseptic loosening.

Intramedullary bone-cement fixation for proximal humeral fracture in elderly patients. A report of 5 cases

We treated 5 proximal humeral fractures associated with advanced osteoporosis with conventional plate and screw fixation augmented by intramedullary bone cement. These osteosyntheses remained stable during a 1-year follow-up and the outcome was similar to that after fractures in younger patients without osteoporosis.

Human PEX19: cDNA cloning by functional complementation, mutation analysis in a patient with Zellweger syndrome, and potential role in peroxisomal membrane assembly

At least 11 complementation groups (CGs) have been identified for the peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs) such as Zellweger syndrome, for which seven pathogenic genes have been elucidated. We have isolated a human PEX19 cDNA (HsPEX19) by functional complementation of peroxisome deficiency of a mutant Chinese hamster ovary cell line, ZP119, defective in import of both matrix and membrane proteins. This cDNA encodes a hydrophilic protein (Pex19p) comprising 299 amino acids, with a prenylation motif, CAAX box, at the C terminus. Farnesylated Pex19p is partly, if not all, anchored in the peroxisomal membrane, exposing its N-terminal part to the cytosol. A stable transformant of ZP119 with HsPEX19 was morphologically and biochemically restored for peroxisome biogenesis. HsPEX19 expression also restored peroxisomal protein import in fibroblasts from a patient (PBDJ-01) with Zellweger syndrome of CG-J. This patient (PBDJ-01) possessed a homozygous, inactivating mutation: a 1-base insertion, A764, in a codon for Met255, resulted in a frameshift, inducing a 24-aa sequence entirely distinct from normal Pex19p. These results demonstrate that PEX19 is the causative gene for CG-J PBD and suggest that the C-terminal part, including the CAAX homology box, is required for the biological function of Pex19p. Moreover, Pex19p is apparently involved at the initial stage in peroxisome membrane assembly, before the import of matrix protein.

[An epidemic of aseptic meningitis caused by echoviruses in Fukuoka Prefecture during April 1997 to August 1998]

An epidemic of aseptic meningitis in Fukuoka Prefecture during April 1997 to August 1998 was studied to determine the serotype of viruses isolated in Fukuoka Prefecture. In Fukuoka Prefecture, bimodal peaks were seen in July and December 1997. Monthly changes of reported aseptic meningitis patients and period of virus isolation revealed that epidemics of the earlier part in 1997 was caused by echovirus 9 (E 9) and the latter part due to echovirus 30 (E 30). E 9 was isolated mainly in Chikugo Area from June to October 1997 but, E 30 was isolated all in areas of Fukuoka Prefecture. Isolation of E 30 continued after January 1998 in Fukuoka Prefecture. Isolation of echovirus 18 started in June 1998. The main serotypes of isolates are changing. The E 30 isolates are serotyped by neutralization with the aid of antiserum pools for enterovirus type differentiation, but serotyping was difficult with commercially available antiserum. The result of neutralization tests with standard serum and an immune albino rabbit serum prepared in our laboratory with the E 30 isolates indicated that the isolates in Fukuoka Prefecture was an antigenic variant.

Effects of the pH-controlled hemoglobin vesicles by CO2 gas

The hemoglobin vesicle (HbV) is a red cell substitute encapsulating purified concentrated Hb in a phospholipid vesicle. In order to improve the oxygen carrying capability of HbV, the pH value of the Hb solution should be adjusted to 7.0 in the HbV preparation, and then the pH value should be adjusted to 7.4 where HbV functions as an oxygen carrier, because the maximum value of [Hb]/[Lipid] was obtained in which the pH of the Hb solution was 7.0, and the metHb formation rate was suppressed in the pH 7.4. Generally, the pH control of the inner aqueous phase of HbV is difficult by changing the pH in the outer phase. We could control the pH of the Hb solution from 7.4 to 7.0 by dissolving CO2 into the Hb solution, and after the preparation of HbV, the pH of HbV is changed to 7.4 by reducing the pressure. The resulting pH-controlled HbV by CO2 gas showed a high [Hb]/[Lipid] value of 1.7 with a low rate of metHb formation.

Subsidence of seizure induced by stereotactic radiation in a patient with hypothalamic hamartoma. Case report

The authors report on a patient who exhibited intractable epilepsy due to an inaccessible hypothalamic hamartoma and subsequently underwent stereotactic radiosurgery. This 25-year-old man had a 24-year history of intractable gelastic and tonic-clonic seizures. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging performed at examination as well as that performed 30 months earlier demonstrated a nonenhancing and nonprogressive spherical mass, approximately 10 mm in diameter, located on the patient's right side at the floor of the third ventricle. Focal radiation treatment performed with a gamma knife unit administered 36 Gy to the center and 18 Gy to the periphery of the lesion. This treatment resulted in an improvement in seizure control. Before the patient underwent radiosurgery, he suffered from three to six generalized seizures per month in spite of attentive compliance with an anticonvulsant medication regimen. After irradiation of the harmatoma, the frequency of the seizures transiently increased and then subsided 3 months posttreatment. The patient has been free of seizures for the last 21 months, with no neurological or endocrinological complications. Magnetic resonance imaging performed 12 months posttreatment demonstrated complete disappearance of the lesion.

[Analysis of genome types of adenovirus type 7 isolated in Fukuoka Prefecture in 1996]

Adenovirus type 7 (Ad7) was rarely isolated in Japan till 1994, but during April 1995 to August 1996, isolations of Ad7 were reported 230 cases. We isolated Ad7 in January and July 1996 in Fukuoka prefecture. We analyzed its genome type by using 14 restriction endonuclease and studied seroepidemiology of Ad7 infection in Fukuoka prefecture. Isolated Ad7 strains were identical by 14 restriction endonuclease. Between new Ad7 isolates and prototype (Gomen; Ad7p), 4 restriction endonuclease patterns were identical but 10 restriction endonuclease patterns were different. From the result of restriction endonuclease pattern analysis, genome type of Ad7 isolated in Fukuoka may be the same to Ad7c reported by Noda et al. (1996). The alterations in the cleavage sites of 10 restriction endonucleases between new Ad7 isolates and Ad7p were revealed at least 12 sites. Ad7 antibody positive rates in serum specimens collected in Fukuoka Prefecture were 3.6% in 1994 and 9.7% in 1996.

Structural comparisons of cell organelles and nuclei in rat hepatocytes with three different fixation techniques

The morphological properties of cell organelles and nuclei in rat hepatocytes were compared, when the hepatocytes were either chemically fixed in glutaraldehyde and osmium (GA-Os), chemically fixed only in osmium (Os-2h) or physically fixed with a microwave-irradiated osmium (Mw-Os) fixative for a short duration. Judging from the fine structure, the mitochondria and rER were best preserved after physical fixation; because of the smooth surfaces and regular open contours, but both organelles shrank in the two chemical fixatives. The Golgi complexes and peroxisomes of the hepatocytes were not markedly changed by any of the fixative procedures. However the lysosomes and sER were changed to some extent after physical fixation. In the nucleus, the two kinds of chromatins and the nucleolus were best preserved with physical fixation. In conclusion, physical fixation is a very simple and fast procedure that is convenient for routine electron microscopy if some attention is paid to the morphological changes.

Pathological improvement of IgA nephropathy and Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis with urokinase therapy

The pathological findings of 13 patients with immunoglobulin A (IgA) nephropathy or Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis before and after urokinase (UK) administration were investigated retrospectively. The mean activity index value decreased significantly at the time of the second biopsy compared with that of the biopsy before UK treatment. The mean chronicity index value, which was considered to reflect the renal outcome, before and after UK treatment did not change significantly, although it improved significantly in six patients. Immunofluorescence microscopy showed that the immune deposition of C3 decreased, but that of IgA and fibrin-related antigen were unchanged, by UK therapy. These results suggest that UK may prevent the mesangial proliferation associated with IgA nephropathy and Henoch-Schönlein purpura nephritis not only by its fibrinolytic action, but also by other mechanisms, such as digestion of the mesangial matrices.

[Epidemic of influenza in Kyushu-Okinawa District (April 1994-March 1995)]

The prevalence of influenza in Kyushu-Okinawa District in April 1994- March 1995 was studied as the prevalence of influenza virus, to determine the sero-type of influenza viruses isolated in Kyushu- Okinawa District prefectures and cities. As a result, three sero-types of influenza viruses, i.e. type A/H1N1, type H3N2 and type B, were isolated in Kyushu-Okinawa District in this season, but most of the isolates were type A/H3N2 and type B. Weekly changes of reported influenza patients and period of virus isolation at local public health institutes revealed that influenza epidemics of the earlier part in this season was caused by type A/H3N2 and the latter part due to type B. Type A/H3N2 spread all over Kyushu-Okinawa District in a shorter period (about 2 weeks) through the westside of Kyushu and down south, and type B stayed about one month in northern Kyushu and took about 7 weeks to spread all over Kyushu-Okinawa District. Based on these results, the spread of influenza virus in Kyushu-Okinawa District was visualized on the isopleth maps.

Three-dimensional structure of two different lymphatic spaces in rat testis, and the route of flow fluxes of their lymphatic fluids

In addition to the collecting vessels, two initial lymphatic spaces were observed with light and electron microscopes. In the deep parenchyma, the peritubular lymphatic spaces surrounding the tubules were observed as polygonal piles after a corrosion casting to the testis. They were joined to the adjacent piles through fenestrae to form a loose spongiform structure. In the superficial parenchyma, the peritubular lymphatic spaces communicated to the subtunical lymphatic space on one side. The subtunical lymphatic spaces anastomosed to each other through small bypasses to form a rich network. Near the mediastinum, the peritubular lymphatic spaces bifurcated and narrowed on another side. Microradiography demonstrated two fluxes of the intratesticular lymphatic fluids; fast and slow flows. The fast flow was observed as a shaded line running into the subtunical lymphatic spaces immediately after injection of the contrast media. It remained 1 or 2 minutes and then disappeared. In contrast, the slow flux was observed as a spongiform shade shifting from the anteroposterial quadrant to the posterosuperior portion of the testis. Seven to 15 minutes were needed for the contrast media to reach near the mediastinum. Both lymphatic spaces are functionally discussed with relation to the two different fluxes of the lymphatic fluids.

[Peritumoral hemorrhage after radiosurgery for metastatic brain tumor: a case report]

An unusual case of peritumoral hemorrhage after radiosurgery for the treatment of metastatic brain tumor is reported. This 64-year-old woman had a history of breast cancer and underwent right mastectomy in 1989. She remained well until January 1993, when she started to have headache, nausea and speech disturbance, and was hospitalized on February 25, 1993. Neurological examination disclosed right hemiparesis and bilateral papilledema. CT scan and MR imaging showed a solitary round mass lesion in the left basal ganglia region. It was a well-demarcated, highly enhanced mass, 37mm in diameter. Cerebral angiography confirmed a highly vascular mass lesion in the same location. She was treated with radiosurgery on March 8 (maximum dose was 20Gy in the center and 10Gy in the peripheral part of the tumor). After radiosurgery, she had an uneventful course and clinical and radiosurgical improvement could be detected. Her neurological symptoms and signs gradually improved and reduction of the tumor size and perifocal edema could be seen one month after radiosurgery. However, 6 weeks after radiosurgery, she suddenly developed semicoma and right hemiplegia. CT scan disclosed a massive peritumoral hemorrhage. Then, emergency craniotomy, evacuation of the hematoma and total removal of the tumor were performed on April 24. Histopathological diagnosis was adenocarcinoma. It was the same finding as that of the previous breast cancer. Histopathological examination revealed necrosis without tumor cells in the center and residual tumor cells in the peripheral part of the tumor.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Three-dimensional structures of the neck region of the hamster spermatozoa in the caudal epididymis

Three-dimensional structures of the capitulum and first mitochondria in the neck region of the hamster spermatozoa, were observed with transmission (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Some capitula revealed a variable contour even in the caudal epididymis, but most finally developed to form a typical wagonette shape. The final shape of the capitulum is probably produced by the aid of apical protrusion of the right, pyramidal mitochondrium. The right and left first mitochondria were triangular pyramids in contour, while the dorsal and ventral ones were rod-like in shape. The mutual transformations between the capitulum and the first mitochondria are discussed in relation to the completion of the neck region.

Three-dimensional analysis of the atrophic process of rat seminiferous tubules after estradiol treatment

Atrophic changes in the basal portion of the seminiferous tubules caused by daily injections of estradiol have been found by scanning electron microscopy disclosed after a digestion technique using collagenase and trypsin. In the control rat, the smooth basal portion of the epithelium was composed of polygonal Sertoli cells and reticularly-arranged ovoidal spermatogonia. After estradiol treatment, there appeared wavy furrows and ridges, and many folded micro-wrinkles in the complicated basal portion of the seminiferous tubules. The wavy furrows and ridges were repeatedly formed and appeared just like a cornice. These structures ran in an orderly manner perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the tubules. In contrast, many micro-wrinkles ran in parallel to the longitudinal axis. These two structures had a characteristically similar size and orderly arrangement. They are discussed in relation to the mechanism by which the seminiferous tubules shrink by injections of estradiol.

Spontaneous dissecting aneurysms of the basilar artery presenting with a subarachnoid hemorrhage. Report of two cases

A spontaneous dissecting aneurysm of the basilar artery is a rare disorder, usually presenting with ischemia rather than a subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Two cases are described of a dissecting aneurysm of the basilar artery presenting with an SAH. Vertebral angiography revealed a double lumen to the basilar artery. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging detected the intramural hematoma. One patient was treated conservatively, and the other underwent operative intervention with wrapping of the aneurysm. The usefulness of MR imaging in the diagnosis and the treatment options are discussed.

Flagellum abnormalities of spermatozoa in seminiferous tubules after a short term vasectomy

Electron microscopic observation was performed to examine whether spermiogenesis in the hamster might be affected by a short term vasectomy. When viewed by light microscopy, spermiogenesis was temporarily inhibited at 2 weeks, though to a limited extent among individuals, and had apparently recovered to the control level at 4 and 8 weeks after vasectomy in all hamsters. It was revealed at the electron microscopic level that mature spermatozoa with an abnormal flagellum were intermingled among numerous normal spermatozoa. The flagellum of the mature spermatozoa was composed of four different components: a mitochondrial sheath, outer dense fiber, fibrous sheath and axoneme. Abnormalities of the mitochondrial sheath were of three types: its discontinuity, displasia and deformation. The appearance of these abnormalities increased with the time after vasectomy and finally reached 52% as the highest value at 8 weeks. Additional noteworthy findings were the bisectioning of the outer dense fibers 2, 4 and 7, the fusion of two or three fibers, and the partial deletion of the fibrous sheath. These defects were characteristic in the vasectomized hamsters. Possible correlating microenvironmental factors are discussed as to how these abnormalities of the four flagellar components occur in the vasectomized hamsters.

CO2 laser-assisted microvascular anastomosis: biomechanical studies and clinical applications

Experiments have been performed using CO2 laser-assisted microvascular anastomoses, and they demonstrated the following features, in comparison with conventional anastomoses: ease in technique; less time consumption; less tissue inflammation; early wound healing; equivalency of patency rate and inner pressure tolerance; but only about 50 percent of the tensile strength of manual-suture anastomosis. Six clinical applications in 16 vessels are reported, using this procedure. The preliminary results of these cases would appear to be the first successful replantations and free tissue transfers using CO2 laser-assisted microvascular anastomoses in man. The procedure offers increased safety and speed in microvascular anastomoses.

Bone marrow and serum concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D, and 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D in patients with leukemia and normal subjects

Concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OH-D), 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [24,25(OH)2D], and 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D] in bone marrow and serum of patients with leukemia and normal subjects were assayed. There were highly significant correlations between the bone marrow and serum concentrations of the respective vitamin D metabolites. Especially, the concentrations of 25-OH-D and 1,25(OH)2D in the bone marrow gave very similar values to those in serum. This is a big advantage in controlling the bone marrow levels of vitamin D metabolites in patients with leukemia, because doctors can calculate the bone marrow levels from the serum levels of the respective vitamin D metabolites without bone marrow aspiration. When 1 alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3 (1 alpha-OH-D3) was administered orally to eight patients with leukemia, clinical conditions were improved in seven patients: four complete remissions (CR), one partial response (PR), and two minor responses (MR) without severe hypercalcemia. The results suggest that the therapy with 1 alpha-OH-D3 is fairly effective for curing human leukemia although it is not dramatic.

Interrelationships between germ cell differentiation and transformation of basolateral profile of Sertoli cells during rat spermatogonial cycle

After treatment with either trypsin, 8N HCl or 5N KOH, or with mechanical dissociation, normally hidden aspects of the seminiferous epithelium were exposed to observation by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). These included the basal surface of seminiferous epithelial cells, the basolateral processes of the Sertoli cell, junctions of the processes, and the basal or adluminal recesses. With the progressing stages of the spermatogonial cycle, three kinds of spermatogonia show different profiles and topographic relations. The basolateral processes of the Sertoli cells can be categorized into four types: conical, wedge-shaped, sheet-like and cup-shaped processes. The first two of the basolateral processes are joined together by close contact and/or overlapping junctions to form the floor of the basal recesses, and they encircle small-sized spermatogonia. The sheet-like processes mutually join by seam line junctions to form the ceiling of the basal recesses. During the spermatogonial cycle, the basal recesses first appear as separated lacunae, then form continuous labyrinth-like trenches, and finally make complicated honeycomb-like lacunae. The cup-shaped processes also are joined by close contact and/or overlapping junctions and are tightly attached by the primary spermatocytes with doughnut-like or linear bodies. The cordal arrangement and adluminal shift of the diverse spermatogonia will be discussed along with the cyclic transformations of Sertoli cell processes and their junctions.

Three-dimensional profile of three types of spermatogonia and their topographies in adolescent or adult rats

Stereomorphic profiles of three types of spermatogonia and their topographical distribution in the basal portion of the seminiferous epithelium of adolescent or adult rats were studied mainly with the scanning electron microscope. According to their cytological features, three types of spermatogonia (large-sized and long fusiform or polygonal; medium-sized and elliptical; small-sized and round) were discerned in both groups of rats. The basal areas of the three spermatogonia were relatively smaller in the adolescent rats than in the adult rats. The type of spermatogonia in the adolescent rats varied somewhat depending upon the diameter of the seminiferous tubules, but such a discrimination could not be made in the adult rats. In the adolescent rats, small cells were less frequently observed than large and medium cells. This ratio of appearance was less marked in the adult rats. Clones from the same spermatogonial cells showed similar topography in both groups of rats as follows. The clones of a few medium cells were arranged singularly(As) or in pairs (Apr), but the clones of most medium cells appeared to form single cords (Aal) through intercellular bridges, while those of the small cells formed an open polygonal network as a large syncytium.

Scanning electron microscopic observations of the vas deferens in man and monkey with special reference to spermiophagy in its ampullary region

The vasa deferentia of men and monkeys were studied and compared with special attention to spermiophagy by epithelial cells in the ampullary region. Specimens were obtained from adult men who were subjected to total vasectomy for early prostatic cancer and from healthy adult Japanese monkeys (Macacus fuscatus). The vasa do not differ greatly in gross and microscopic morphology between man and monkey. The mucosal lining of the vas, except for its ampullary region, is generally smooth with occasional infoldings and consists of a pseudostratified columnar epithelium. The free epithelial surface is covered by dense mat of long microvilli (stereocilia) on which a few spermatozoa reside. In contrast to other regions of the vas, the ampullary lumen has a spindle-shaped dilation and complicated infoldings of the mucosa, the mucosa is wider and much more infolded in man than in monkey. The columnar epithelial cells characteristically contain abundant secretory granules in the cytoplasm and bear short, stubby microvilli in the place of stereocilia. Worthy of special mention in the ampullary region of the vas in both species is that various stages of spermiophagy by the epithelial cells are extensively visualized by SEM. The ampullary region may play a role in the removal of excess spermatozoa in addition to the storage of them.