Lactobacillus helveticus-Fermented Milk Whey Suppresses Melanin Production by Inhibiting Tyrosinase through Decreasing MITF Expression

Whey obtained from milk fermented by the Lactobacillus helveticus CM4 strain (LHMW) has been shown to improve skin barrier function and increase skin-moisturizing factors. In this study, we investigated the effects of LHMW on melanin production to explore the additional impacts of LHMW on the skin. We treated mouse B16 melanoma cells with α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) alone or simultaneously with LHMW and measured the amount of melanin. The amount of melanin in B16 cells treated with α-MSH significantly increased by 2-fold compared with that in control cells, and tyrosinase activity was also elevated. Moreover, treatment with LHMW significantly suppressed the increase in melanin content and elevation of tyrosinase activity due to α-MSH. LHMW also suppressed the α-MSH-induced increased expression of tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein 1 (TRP1), and dopachrome tautomerase (DCT) at the protein and mRNA levels. Furthermore, the mRNA and protein microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF) expression levels were significantly increased with treatment with α-MSH alone, which were also suppressed by LHMW addition. LHMW suppression of melanin production is suggested to involve inhibition of the expression of the tyrosinase gene family by lowering the MITF expression level. LHMW may have promise as a material for cosmetics with expected clinical application in humans.

Effective bifidogenic growth factors cyclo-Val-Leu and cyclo-Val-Ile produced by Bacillus subtilis C-3102 in the human colonic microbiota model

Bifidobacterium species are known to fulfill important functions within the human colon. Thus, stimulating the activity of bifidobacteria is important to maintain host health. We revealed that culture supernatants of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 (referred to as C-3102) stimulated the growth of Bifidobacterium species. In this study, we isolated and identified six bifidogenic growth factors, which were cyclo (D-Val-D-Ile), cyclo (L-Val-D-Ile), cyclo (D-Val-L-Ile), cyclo (L-Val-L-Ile), cyclo (D-Val-L-Leu) and cyclo (L-Val-L-Leu). These six cyclic dipeptides increased the growth of Bifidobacterium species and had no effect on potentially harmful gut organisms. Moreover, supplementation with a mixture of these six cyclic dipeptides significantly increased the abundance of microorganisms related to the genus Bifidobacterium in a human colonic microbiota model culture system, although supplementation with a single type of dipeptide had no effect. These results show that cyclic dipeptides containing Val-Leu and Val-Ile produced by C-3102 could serve as bifidogenic growth factors in the gut microbial community.

Catalytic Chemoselective O-Phosphorylation of Alcohols

Phosphorylation of alcohols is a fundamentally important reaction in both life science and physical science. Product phosphate monoesters play key roles in living organisms, natural products, pharmaceuticals, and organic materials. Most of the chemical methods to date for synthesizing phosphate monoesters, however, require multistep sequences or are limited to specific types of substrates possibly due to harsh conditions. An alternative way to enable the simple production of phosphate monoesters from highly functionalized precursor alcohols is, thus, highly desired. We report herein a catalytic phosphorylation of alcohols with high functional group tolerance using tetrabutylammonium hydrogen sulfate (TBAHS) and phosphoenolpyruvic acid monopotassium salt (PEP-K) as the catalyst and phosphoryl donor, respectively. This method enables the direct introduction of a nonprotected phosphate group to the hydroxy group of a diverse menu of alcohol substrates, including functionalized small molecules, carbohydrates, and unprotected peptides. Nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometric, and density functional theory analyses suggest that an unprecedented mixed anhydride species, generated from PEP-K and TBAHS, acts as an active phosphoryl donor in this reaction. This operationally simple and chemoselective catalytic phosphorylation allows for the efficient production of densely functionalized O-phosphorylated compounds, which are useful in diverse fields including biology and medicine.

Safety evaluation of the excessive intake of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 in healthy Japanese adults: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group, comparison trial

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Excessive intake of B. subtilis C-3102 leads to unchanged in the medical condition.

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Excessive intake of B. subtilis C-3102 does not worsen bone mineral density.

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Excessive intake of B. subtilis C-3102 was safe under the study condition.

Objective

Continuous intake of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 (B. subtilis C-3102) has been reported to modulate the gut microbiota and increase the bone mineral density of the femur in healthy adults. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of excessive B. subtilis C-3102 intake through a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study.

Method

A total of 69 individuals provided an informed consent, and 44 subjects who met the inclusion criteria were allocated to either the B. subtilis C-3102 (C-3102 group, n = 22) or the placebo group (P group, n = 22). All subjects took 18 tablets containing either containing B. subtilis C-3102 or placebo per day for 4 weeks with water and without chewing. Subjects in the C-3102 group consumed 4.8 × 10¹⁰ colony forming units (cfu) per day. Physical examination, urinalysis, blood analysis, records of subjective symptoms, and a medical questionnaire administered by a clinical trial physician were performed to determine the safety of test tablets. Furthermore, bone mineral density was measured.

Results

The final analysis included data from 22 subjects (9 men, 13 women; age, 46.1 ± 13.8 years) in the C-3102 group and 22 subjects (9 men, 13 women; age, 46.1 ± 13.5 years) in the P group. The results revealed no medical-related problems in both C-3102 and P groups.

Conclusion

This study proved the safety of 4-week continuous consumption of an excessive amount of B. subtilis C-3102 tablets.

Effect of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 on bone mineral density in healthy postmenopausal Japanese women: a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial

Gut microbiota influence the host immune system and are associated with various diseases. In recent years, postmenopausal bone loss has been suggested to be related to gut microbiota. In the present study, we investigated the treatment effect of the probiotic Bacillus subtilis C-3102 (C-3102) on bone mineral density (BMD) and its influence on gut microbiota in healthy postmenopausal Japanese women. Seventy-six healthy postmenopausal Japanese women were treated with a placebo or C-3102 spore-containing tablets for 24 weeks. When compared with the placebo, C-3102 significantly increased total hip BMD (placebo = 0.83 ± 0.63%, C-3102 = 2.53 ± 0.52%, p=0.043). There was a significant group-by-time interaction effect for urinary type I collagen cross-linked N-telopeptide (uNTx) (p=0.033), a marker of bone resorption. Specifically, the C-3102 group showed significantly lower uNTx when compared with the placebo group at 12 weeks of treatment (p=0.015). In addition, in the C-3102 group, there was a trend towards a decrease in the bone resorption marker tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase isoform 5b (TRACP-5b) when compared with the placebo group at 12 weeks of treatment (p=0.052). The relative abundance of genus Bifidobacterium significantly increased at 12 weeks of treatment compared with the baseline in the C-3102 group. The relative abundance of genus Fusobacterium was significantly decreased in the C-3102 group at 12 and 24 weeks of treatment compared with the baseline. These data suggested that C-3102 improves BMD by inhibiting bone resorption and modulating gut microbiota in healthy postmenopausal women.

Effect of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 on loose stools in healthy volunteers

Ingestion of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 spores (C-3102) has relieved the symptoms of diarrhoea in piglets and changed the composition of gut microbiota in humans. Recently, it was suggested that the composition of the human gut microbiota affects stool consistency. In this study, a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to assess the preventive effects of chronic diarrhoea in healthy volunteers with loose stools by ingestion of C-3102. The results showed that oral doses of C-3102 tablets significantly decreased the Bristol Stool Scale score and stool frequency, and also significantly improved abdominal sounds. With regard to gut microbiota, the relative abundance of Lachnospira, Actinomyces and SMB53 were significantly changed. This study shows that C-3102 could be effective for treating loose stools (Trial registration: UMIN000022583, http://tinyurl.com/ya4refqn ).

Studies of Pig Complement: Measurement of Pig CH50, ACH50, and Components

BACKGROUND

On the basis of a comparison of the hemolytic complement titer in pigs with that in humans, the complement system of pigs was investigated. The response of innate immunity, such as the natural antibodies, against humans was also examined.

METHODS

Hemolytic complement activity of pig serum was measured with the use of a microtitration technique. CH50 was determined according to the method of Mayer. ACH50 was assayed according to the methods of Platts-Milles and Ishizaka. Hemolytic activities of C1, C4, C2, C3, C5, C8, and C9 were estimated through the use of intermediate cells and reagents, as described previously. In addition, the pig natural anti-human antibody was studied with the use of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Human PBMCs were stained with 5% pig serum, followed by staining with fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled goat anti-pig IgG and IgM. The resulting stained cells were quantified by use of a FACScalibur system. The alternative pathway of pig complement was also measured with the use of human erythrocytes and normal pooled pig serum with or without Mg(++)EGTA.

RESULTS

Both the CH50 and ACH50 titers were lower than those of humans. Concerning the components, except for C3, each component, that is, C1, C4, C2, C5, C8, and C9, was also lower than that of humans, based on measured values for human complement components. Pig serum clearly contains natural antibodies, IgG and IgM, to human PBMCs. The alternative pathway of pig complement reacted with human erythrocytes.

CONCLUSIONS

As a whole, pig innate immunity, the complement system and natural antibody, recognizes the surfaces of human cells.

Influence of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 on microbiota in a dynamic in vitro model of the gastrointestinal tract simulating human conditions

Survival and germination rate of Bacillus subtilis C-3102 spores were investigated in a stomach and small intestine model (TIM-1), while the impact of C-3102 cells that had passed through TIM-1 on human colon microbiota was evaluated in a model of the large intestine (TIM-2). The survival of C-3102 spores in TIM-1 was 99%; 8% of the spores had germinated. Effluent of TIM-1 was subsequently introduced into TIM-2 and a micro-array platform was employed to assess changes in the microbiota composition. The effluent, which contained germinated C-3102 cells, increased some Bifidobacterium species and decreased some Clostridium groups. These changes were greater compared to those obtained by adding C-3102 spores directly to TIM-2. The present study suggests that oral doses of B. subtilis C-3102 spores have the potential to modulate the human colon microbiota. This effect may be caused by germination of the spores in the gastrointestinal tract.

Hyper IgM syndrome and complement Clq deficiency in an individual with systemic lupus erythematosus-like disease

Many immunedeficiency syndromes are associated with autoimmune disorders. We here report on a girl with a systemic lupus erythematosus-like disease who suffered from both hyperimmunoglobulin M syndrome (HIGMS) and C1q deficiency. Despite severe central nervous system-lupus like disease, probably due to C1q deficiency, kidney function was relatively spared. IgM autoantibody might play a protective role against lupus-glomerulonephritis.

Hypoxia-inducible factor-3alpha functions as an accelerator of 3T3-L1 adipose differentiation

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) is a heterodimer composed of HIF-alpha and -beta, and to date, three HIF-alpha subunits, HIF-1alpha, -2alpha, and -3alpha, have been identified. Among these HIF-alpha subunits, HIF-1alpha represses peroxisome proliferator activator gamma2 gene expression and then inhibits adipogenesis, and HIF-2alpha is induced during adipose differentiation and functions as a positive regulator of adipogenesis. We here found that like HIF-2alpha, HIF-3alpha was induced during 3T3-L1 adipose differentiation. Reporter gene analysis revealed that HIF-2alpha enhanced the promoter activity of the 5'-flanking region of the mouse HIF-3alpha gene (nucleotides -2710 to +56), while HIF-1alpha had no substantial effects on the promoter activity. These results suggested that HIF-2alpha, which was induced during adipogenesis, might regulate the HIF-3alpha gene expression. Furthermore, the 5'-deletion analysis revealed that the sequence between -251 and -228 in mouse HIF-3alpha promoter was essential in response to HIF-2alpha. We further examined the effect of ectopic expression of HIF-3alpha in 3T3-L1 cells on adipose differentiation and found that ectopic expression of HIF-3alpha at the early stage of differentiation induced the expression of several kinds of adipocytes-related genes and enhanced adipogenic potential. HIF-3alpha, which is induced by HIF-2alpha, might function as an accelerator of adipogenesis.

Increased insulin demand promotes while pioglitazone prevents pancreatic beta cell apoptosis in Wfs1 knockout mice

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

The WFS1 gene encodes an endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membrane-embedded protein called Wolfram syndrome 1 protein, homozygous mutations of which cause selective beta cell loss in humans. The function(s) of this protein and the mechanism by which the mutations of this gene cause beta cell death are still not fully understood. We hypothesised that increased insulin demand as a result of obesity/insulin resistance causes ER stress in pancreatic beta cells, thereby promoting beta cell death.

METHODS

We studied the effect of breeding Wfs1 ( -/- ) mice on a C57BL/6J background with mild obesity and insulin resistance, by introducing the agouti lethal yellow mutation (A ( y ) /a). We also treated the mice with pioglitazone.

RESULTS

Wfs1 ( -/- ) mice bred on a C57BL/6J background rarely develop overt diabetes by 24 weeks of age, showing only mild beta cell loss. However, Wfs1 ( -/- ) A ( y ) /a mice developed selective beta cell loss and severe insulin-deficient diabetes as early as 8 weeks. This beta cell loss was due to apoptosis. In Wfs1 ( +/+ ) A ( y ) /a islets, levels of ER chaperone immunoglobulin-binding protein (BiP)/78 kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP78) and phosphorylation of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2, subunit alpha (eIF2alpha) apparently increased. Levels of both were further increased in Wfs1 ( -/- ) A ( y ) /a murine islets. Electron micrography revealed markedly dilated ERs in Wfs1 (-/-) A ( y ) /a murine beta cells. Interestingly, pioglitazone treatment protected beta cells from apoptosis and almost completely prevented diabetes development.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Wfs1-deficient beta cells are susceptible to ER stress. Increased insulin demand prompts apoptosis in such cells in vivo. Pioglitazone, remarkably, suppresses this process and prevents diabetes. As common WFS1 gene variants have recently been shown to confer a risk of type 2 diabetes, our findings may be relevant to the gradual but progressive loss of beta cells in type 2 diabetes.

Changes in the Burgers vector of perfect dislocation loops without contact with the external dislocations

We report the observations of a new type of changing process in the Burgers vector of dislocations by in situ transmission electron microscopy. Small interstitial-type perfect dislocation loops in bcc iron with diameters less than approximately 50 nm are transformed from a 1/2<111> loop to another 1/2<111> one or an energetically unfavorable <100> one; furthermore, a <100> loop is transformed to a 1/2<111> one. These transformations occurred on high-energy electron irradiation or simple heating without contact with external dislocations. The origin of these phenomena is discussed.

cDNA cloning and functional characterization of Xenopus laevis DNase γ

We report here the cDNA cloning and functional analysis of Xenopus DNase gamma (xDNase gamma). Two forms of cDNAs are isolated from adult spleen: one composing a 933 bp open reading frame for the enzymatically active xDNase gamma protein, and the other encoding an inactive short alternative form. Northern blot analysis revealed that the xDNase gamma mRNA is expressed in spleen, liver, testis, and ovary. xDNase gamma expression is scarcely detected in the tail muscle of tadpoles; however, it increases during metamorphosis and reaches a maximum during the late metamorphic climax. The ectopic expression of xDNase gamma results in the appearance of extensive DNA fragmentation in C2C12 myoblasts after the induction of apoptosis. In contrast, Xenopus DNase I fails to induce apoptotic DNA ladder formation under the same conditions. Our results suggest a possible involvement of xDNase gamma in apoptosis during amphibian metamorphosis.

The relation between intraocular pressure peak in the water drinking test and visual field progression in glaucoma

AIM

To compare the results of the water drinking test between glaucomatous eyes with and without visual field progression.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 76 eyes of 76 open angle glaucoma patients followed for a mean period of 26.0 (SD 13.8) months. Patients were submitted to the water drinking test at the beginning of the follow up period. Reliable achromatic automated perimetry tests performed during the studied period were used to characterise visual field progression. All subjects were under clinical therapy and had an intraocular pressure (IOP) lower than 17 mm Hg monitored by isolated measurements during the follow up period. The results of the water drinking test were compared between glaucomatous eyes with and without visual field progression.

RESULTS

Twenty eight eyes reached definite visual field progression. There were no significant differences in the mean age, sex, race, basal IOP, number of antiglaucomatous drugs, initial mean deviation (MD), and corrected pattern standard deviation (CPSD) between eyes that showed visual field progression and the ones who did not progress. A significant difference of 1.9 (SD 0.6) mm Hg (p = 0.001, analysis of covariance; 95% CI 0.8 to 3.0) was observed between glaucomatous eyes that showed visual field deterioration and glaucomatous eyes that did not progress. A significant difference of 16.8% (SD 4.6%) in the mean percentage of IOP variation was also observed between the two groups (p<0.001, analysis of covariance; 95% CI 7.7 to 26.0).

CONCLUSIONS

Mean IOP peak and percentage of IOP variation during water drinking test were significantly higher in patients with visual field progression compared with patients who did not progress.

Intraocular pressure variability in patients who reached target intraocular pressure

AIM

To assess the intraocular pressure (IOP) variability in patients with primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) under clinical treatment who reached an established target pressure based on isolated office readings.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 65 eyes from 65 POAG patients under clinical therapy who submitted to modified diurnal tension curve (mDTC) (measurements at every 3 hours between 8 am and 5 pm) followed by a water drinking test (WDT). All subjects had established target IOP < or =15 mm Hg at 11 am or 2 pm. IOP variability during mDTC or WDT was evaluated.

RESULTS

mDTC revealed IOP measurements > or =17 mm Hg in 16 of 65 eyes (24.6%). Nine eyes (13.8%) presented values > or =18 mm Hg. The highest IOP detected by mDTC was 20 mm Hg in one patient (1.5%). WDT demonstrated IOP values > or =17 mm Hg in 32 of 65 eyes (49.2%). 22 eyes (33.8%) presented values > or =18 mm Hg after water ingestion. Moreover, IOP levels > or =20 mm Hg were observed in 14 eyes (21.5%).

CONCLUSION

A great percentage of POAG patients undergoing clinical treatment and with IOP control based on single office measurement present significantly higher IOP measurements when performing mDTC and, especially, the WDT.

Listeria monocytogenes isolated from cold-smoked fish products in Osaka City, Japan

Listeria monocytogenes contamination of ready-to-eat seafood products commercially available in Osaka was examined between 1999 and 2000. L. monocytogenes was isolated from 12 (13%) of the 95 products tested. All positive samples were from cold-smoked fish with 9 being obtained during the summer. Thirteen isolates of L. monocytogenes were typed by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based typing methods. Isolates of the same serotype originating from the same manufacturer gave similar DNA profiles, irrespective of the type of sample or date of isolation. The finding suggest that persistent strains in each manufacturing facility proliferate during the summer and contaminate products during manufacturing processes.

Functional cross-talk of HIV-1 Tat with p53 through its C-terminal domain

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Tat repressed the p53-dependent gene expression through its C-terminal domain of Tat (amino acid residues 73-86) independent of the involvement of NF-kappaB and coactivator CBP/p300. Although Tat did not directly bind to p53, this repression required the N-terminal domain of p53. In contrast, Tat and p53 cooperated in the activation of HIV-1 gene expression. Thus, the cross-talk between Tat and p53 may be linked with cellular transformation by HIV-1 infection or activation of HIV-1 replication.

Calcium phosphate crystal-associated proteins: alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein, prothrombin fragment 1 and osteopontin

To study the inhibitory effects of calcium phosphate-associated proteins on calcium oxalate crystallization and urinary concentrations of proteins in people who form stones and healthy controls. From 60 L of urine from healthy men, calcium phosphate-associated proteins (alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein, prothrombin fragment 1 and osteopontin) were obtained. The effects of the proteins on calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystallization were studied with a mixed suspension mixed product removal system. To examine urinary concentrations of the proteins, urine samples were collected from 17 healthy subjects and 15 stone formers and analyzed using anion-exchange chromatography and an enzyme immunoassay. Prothrombin fragment 1 (PTF1) and osteopontin (OPN) had strong inhibitory effects on CaOx crystallization, while alpha-2-HS-glycoprotein had a mild inhibitory effect. Urinary concentrations of PTF1 and OPN were lower in stone formers than in healthy controls. Low urinary concentrations of PTF1 and OPN might be one of the reasons for stone formation.

Two types of replication protein A 70 kDa subunit in rice, Oryza sativa: molecular cloning, characterization, and cellular & tissue distribution

Replication protein A (RPA), which is comprised of three subunits, is an important factor involved in DNA replication, repair, and transcription. We isolated and characterized 70 and 32 kDa subunits of RPA from rice (Oryza sativa cv. Nipponbare) termed OsRPA70a and OsRPA32. OsRPA70a shows a low level of homology with OsRPA1 which was isolated from deepwater rice (Oryza sativa cv. Pin Gaew 56), previously. We also succeeded to isolate OsRPA70b which is homologue to OsRPA1 from Oryza sativa cv. Nipponbare. OsRPA70a shows only 33.8% sequence identity with OsRPA70b, indicating that two different types of 70 kDa RPA subunits are present in Oryza sativa cv. Nipponbare. These subunits showed differences in their expression patterns among tissues. The transcripts of OsRPA70a and OsRPA32 were expressed strongly in proliferating tissues such as root tips and young leaves that contain root apical meristem and marginal meristem, respectively, and weakly in the mature leaves which have no proliferating tissues. On the other hand, OsRPA70b was expressed mostly in the proliferating tissues. The roles of these molecules in plant DNA replication and DNA repair are discussed.

Thickness of the retinal nerve fiber layer in amblyopic and normal eyes: a scanning laser polarimetry study

PURPOSE

To compare scanning laser polarimeter (GDx, Laser Diagnostic Technologies, San Diego, Calif) measurements of the peripapillar retinal nerve fiber layer in amblyopic and normal eyes.

METHODS

Scanning laser polarimetry was performed on 21 patients with unilateral strabismic amblyopia who had an absence of neurologic diseases or glaucoma and a minimum age of 7 years. A mean retardation map was calculated from separate scans or was considered to be the best scan obtained for each eye. Polarimetric indices were analyzed comparing amblyopic and contralateral normal eyes.

RESULTS

The mean age was 15 +/- 9 years (7-35 years) and the male:female ratio was 13:8. There were 6 right and 15 left amblyopic eyes, with the amblyopic group having a mean visual acuity of 0.3 +/- 0.1. The mean (+/- SD) indices did not differ significantly between normal and amblyopic eyes, except the number that summates information from the individual parameters, which was higher in normal (20.71 +/- 11.98) than in amblyopic (15.14 +/- 6.81) eyes, P =.02.

CONCLUSION

There was no statistical difference in thickness of the nerve fiber layer between amblyopic and normal eyes. A previous study found similar results in adults with strabismic amblyopia.

The cyclic AMP/PKA signal pathway is required for initiation of spore germination in Schizosaccharomyces pombe

Spore germination, a transition from the quiescent G0 phase to the proliferation cycle, is triggered by glucose in Schizosaccharomyces pombe. The role of cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) signalling in germination is investigated. Gene disruption of cyr1+, pka1+ and gpa2+ encoding adenylate cyclase, PKA and the alpha-subunit of a trimeric GTP-binding protein, respectively, reduced the colony-forming efficiency of spores in minimal medium. Isolated spores of these null mutants did not germinate in minimal medium for up to 12 h, at which time wild-type spores had completed germination and formed germ projections. In wild-type spores, cortical actin patches randomly distributed in the early stage of outgrowth and then localized to one side of spores before the formation of projections. In contrast, the mutant spores exhibited no actin patches, but the cell surface was predominantly stained, like ungerminated spores of wild-type. Flow fluorocytometric analysis of propidium iodide-stained spores revealed a distinct 1C DNA peak after germination was completed. The fluorescent profile of the mutant spores, however, did not change during 12 h incubation in the minimal medium. These observations indicate that spores harbouring either cyr1Delta, pka1Delta or gpa2Delta are hardly triggered to germination. When wild-type spores were exposed to glucose, the intracellular cAMP level transiently increased in a few minutes, but gpa2Delta spores did not respond to glucose. We conclude that S. pombe spores initiate germination in response to glucose through the cyclic AMP-PKA pathway.

Molecular cloning and characterization of a plant homologue of the origin recognition complex 1 (ORC1)

By using the rice EST database, we have isolated a 2.8 kb cDNA, termed Oryza sativa ORC1 (OsORC1), from rice (O. sativa) encoding a protein that shows homology with the eukaryotic ORC1 proteins. Alignment of the OsORC1 protein sequence with the sequence of ORC1 from human and yeasts S. cerevisiae and S. pombe showed a high degree of sequence homology (38.7, 32.9 and 35.0% identity, respectively), particularly around the C-terminal region containing the CDC-NTP domain. Interestingly, the OsORC1 protein had an A+T hook-like motif, which was not present in the human or yeast genes. Genomic analysis indicated that OsORC1 existed as a single copy per genome. OsORC1 transcripts were expressed strongly in root tips and weakly in young leaves containing root apical meristem and marginal meristem, respectively. No expression was detected in the mature leaves. The level of OsORC1 expression was significantly reduced when cell proliferation was temporarily halted by the removal of sucrose from the growth medium. When the growth-halted cells began to re-grow following addition of sucrose to the medium, OsORC1 was again expressed at high levels. These results suggested that OsORC1 is required for cell proliferation. The role of OsORC1 in plant DNA replication will be discussed.

My4+/LeuM3- molecule and CD19 antigen are down-modulate by low affinity Fc gamma receptor II (CD32) stimulation on CD56-positive B-lymphoma cells

My4+/LeuM3- molecule is recognized by My4, but not by LeuM3, both well known mAbs to CD14. In a previous study we showed that the My4+/LeuM3- molecule on a human monoblastic cell line, U937, is not CD14, but another cell surface antigen. The roles and functions of the My4+/LeuM3- molecule remained unknown. We now report that specific stimulation of Fc gammaR with aggregated IgG or anti-Fc gammaRII antibody down-modulated the My4+/LeuM3- molecules, as well as CD19, in a case of CD56-positive B cell lymphoma. Stimulation of Fc gammaR with anti-mu antibody, which induced concomitant stimulation of sIg, did not induce down-modulation of either molecule. Stimulation of CR2 (CD21), a protein which is functionally or physically associated with CD19, with anti-CR2 (CD21) mAbs also had no effect. The modulation occurred specifically on CD56-positive B-lymphoma cells, since My4+/LeuM3(-)-positive, CD56-negative B-lymphoma cells did not respond to the stimulation. These results suggest that CD19 and My4+/LeuM3- molecules are functionally or physically associated with Fc gammaR II on CD56 positive B-lymphoma cells defined as being at a terminal B cell differentiation stage.

Urine levels of CD46 (membrane cofactor protein) are increased in patients with glomerular diseases

Soluble membrane cofactor protein (MCP, CD46) has not been detected by conventional ELISA in human urine. Here, we established a highly sensitive assay method for determination of urinary MCP (uMCP) using monoclonal antibody-coated paramagnetic beads. This method enabled us to detect less than 0.05 ng/ml of purified membrane and recombinant soluble MCP, a sensitivity 10-fold higher than that of conventional ELISA. In normal subjects, the levels of uMCP were <0. 05 ng/ml. The levels of uMCP were elevated in patients with IgA nephropathy and more prominently in patients with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. The levels of uMCP were correlated significantly with those of serum MCP (sMCP) and N-acetyl-beta-glucosaminidase and nonsignificantly with those of beta(2)-microglobulin, total urine protein, or serum creatinine. The properties of uMCP were inconsistent with those of the reported sMCP, since uMCP showed three bands on SDS-PAGE/immunoblotting with molecular mass profiles different from those of sMCP. uMCP exhibited factor I cofactor activity for cleavage of C3b comparable to that of sMCP. The origin of uMCP, however, remains to be determined. These results, taken together with the parameter correlation profiles, suggested that uMCP is secreted or produced secondary to tubular or glomerular damage. The physiological role and clinical significance of uMCP are now within the scope of our investigation by establishment of this assay.

Molecular remodelling of human CD46 for xenotransplantation: designing a potent complement regulator without measles virus receptor activity

In pig-to-human discordant xenotransplantation, human complement (C) is a major barrier to long survival of xenografts. The current idea on how to cope with this barrier is that human complement regulatory proteins are forcibly expressed on xenografts to serve as safeguards against host C-induced hyperacute rejection of xenografts. Co-expression of decay-accelerating factor (DAF) (CD55) and membrane cofactor protein (MCP) (CD46) would be the first choice for this trial, because most of the human cells are protected from C-mediated damage by two different modes with these two kinds of C-regulators. Many problems have arisen, however, for MCP expression on grafts. (i) MCP acts as a measles virus receptor, which may function to render donor pigs measles virus (MV) sensitive. (ii) MCP signals immune suppression which causes devastation of the recipient's immune responses. (iii) MCP exerts relatively low self-protective activity against C compared with other cofactors; development of more efficient forms is desirable. (iv) Grafts with a high expression level of MCP are difficult to produce. In this study, we made a number of cDNA constructs of MCP, expressed them on swine endothelial cell lines, and tested cell-protective potency and MV susceptibility. The short consensus repeat 1 (SCR1)-deleted MCP with glycosyl phosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored form (Delta1MCP-PI) of MCP was found to be most suitable for the purpose of overcoming these problems. However, it was also found that MV induces two modes of cytopathic effect (CPE) on swine endothelial cells, either MCP-dependent or -independent. Here, we discuss these two points which will be raised through study of MCP-transgenic animals.

Distribution of sarcophytol A in soft coral of the Sarcophyton genus

The distribution of sarcophytol-A in the Sarcophyton genus was investigated in seven samples belonging to S. glaucum (3 samples), S. infundibulifurme (2 samples), S. crassocaule (1 sample) and S. trocheliophorum (1 sample) that were collected on Ishigaki Island in Okinawa Prefecture. Sarcophytol-A was present in one sample each of S. glaucum and S. infundibulifurme. This study indicates that the composition of cembranoids in the Sarcophyton genus is not related with the respective species, but with the individual samples collected.

A new nonamyloid transthyretin variant, G101S, detected by electrospray ionization/mass spectrometry. Mutations in brief no. 201. Online

Familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy is caused by transthyretin (TTR) variants. The identification of new variants with and without amyloidosis may help to clarify the mechanism of amyloid fibril formation. We detected several variant TTRs from patients with and without symptoms of amyloidosis using mass spectrometry (MS). TTR was isolated by mixing test serum with anti-transthyretin antiserum, and the generated immunoprecipitate was analyzed by high performanced liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization (HPLC/ESI) MS. Variant TTRs showed extra peaks in addition to normal TTR peaks. A variant found in nonamyloid group was sequenced by HPLC/ESI tandem MS using peptides obtained by protelytic digestion of TTR and by DNA analysis. The structure was new, [G101S], and was found in a 74 years old Japanese male. This mutation results from substitution in a CpG hot spot. The substitution in the surface loop, 98-102, between F and G b-strands may not cause amyloid formation.

Plant homologue of flap endonuclease-1: molecular cloning, characterization, and evidence of expression in meristematic tissues

Flap endonuclease-1 (FEN-1) is an important enzyme involved in DNA replication and repair. We isolated a 1.4 kb cDNA from rice (Oryza sativa), termed OsFEN-1, encoding a protein which shows homology with the eukaryotic FEN-1 proteins. OsFEN-1 protein was overexpressed in Escherichia coli and purified to near homogeneity. DNA cleavage analysis using different branched DNA structures indicated that OsFEN-1 protein possesses both 5'-flap endonuclease and 5' to 3' double-stranded DNA exonuclease activities. OsFEN-1 protein incises a 5'-flap and 5'-pseudo Y structure one base 3' of the branched point in the duplex region. The enzymatic properties indicated that we succeeded in obtaining the gene and the protein of a plant counterpart of FEN-1. OsFEN-1 transcripts were expressed strongly in proliferating tissues such as root tips and young leaves that contain root apical meristem and marginal meristem, respectively. No expression was detected in mature leaves although the leaves were exposed to UV. We analyzed the spatial distribution pattern of OsFEN-1 transcripts by in situ hybridization. In the shoot apex, OsFEN-1 mRNA was abundant in the shoot apical meristem, tiller bud, leaf primordia, ligule primordia and marginal meristem of young leaves. In the roots, the transcript accumulated to high levels in the root apical meristem. Our results indicate that OsFEN-1 is expressed in tissues rich in proliferating cells, and its expression may be required for cell growth and organ formation.

Calcium phosphate crystal-associated proteins: alpha2-HS-glycoprotein, prothrombin F1, and osteopontin

PURPOSE

To elucidate the process of urinary stone formation, many urinary constituents have been examined as inhibitors or promoters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed specific binding proteins of calcium phosphate (CaP) crystals generated in human urine and found that the separated proteins were alpha2-HS-glycoprotein, prothrombin fragment 1 (PTF1), and osteopontin (OPN). We also studied their inhibitory effects on calcium oxalate crystallization and the quantitative differences in urinary excretion of the proteins in healthy individuals and stone formers.

RESULTS

Both PTF1 and OPN had strong inhibitory effects on growth of calcium oxalate crystals. No differences in alpha2-HS-glycoprotein were found between healthy subjects and stone formers. Urinary concentrations of PTF1 and OPN were lower in stone formers than in healthy controls. No differences in these proteins were seen between single and recurrent stone formers.

CONCLUSION

Low urinary concentrations of PTF1 and OPN might be one reason for stone formation.

Analysis of urinary concentrations of calcium phosphate crystal-associated proteins: alpha2-HS-glycoprotein, prothrombin F1, and osteopontin

It has been reported that prothrombin F1 and osteopontin (OPN) have strong inhibitory effects on calcium oxalate crystallization and are produced in stone-forming kidneys in animal models. It is important to evaluate urinary concentrations of these proteins for patients with renal stones and healthy control subjects. Urinary macromolecules were collected from nine healthy individuals, nine stone-formers, and five patients with primary hyperparathyroidism (HPT). Each 50-mg aliquot of urinary macromolecules was mixed with calcium phosphate solution, and calcium phosphate crystal-precipitated proteins (alpha2-HS-glycoprotein, prothrombin F1, and OPN) were obtained. The proteins were analyzed by anion-exchange chromatography. Furthermore, OPN levels in whole urine from 18 healthy individuals, 31 stone-formers, and two patients with HPT were measured using a new enzyme immunoassay system. The elution peaks for prothrombin and OPN were significantly smaller for the stone-formers and patients with HPT, compared with the healthy control subjects. Urinary concentrations of OPN assessed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbant assay were significantly lower for stone-formers. Lower urinary excretion of prothrombin F1 and OPN by stone-formers might be one of the reasons for stone formation.

Air pollution and respiratory illness of children in São Paulo, Brazil

This investigation reports the association between air pollution and paediatric respiratory emergency visits in São Paulo, Brazil, the largest city in South America. Daily records of emergency visits were obtained from the Children's Institute of the University of São Paulo for the period from May 1991 to April 1993. Visits were classified as respiratory and non-respiratory causes. Respiratory visits were further divided into three categories: upper respiratory illness, lower respiratory illness and wheezing. Daily records of SO2, CO, particulate matter (PM10), O3 and NO2 concentrations were obtained from the State Air Pollution Controlling Agency of São Paulo. Associations between respiratory emergency visits and air pollution were assessed by simple comparative statistics, simple correlation analysis and by estimating a variety of regression models. Significant associations between the increase of respiratory emergency visits and air pollution were observed. The most robust associations were observed with PM10, and to a lesser extent with O3. These associations were stable across different model specifications and several controlling variables. A significant increase in the counts of respiratory emergency visits--more than 20%--was observed on the most polluted days, indicating that air pollution is a substantial paediatric health concern in São Paulo.

Air pollution and respiratory illness of children in São Paulo, Brazil

This investigation reports the association between air pollution and paediatric respiratory emergency visits in São Paulo, Brazil, the largest city in South America. Daily records of emergency visits were obtained from the Children's Institute of the University of São Paulo for the period from May 1991 to April 1993. Visits were classified as respiratory and non-respiratory causes. Respiratory visits were further divided into three categories: upper respiratory illness, lower respiratory illness and wheezing. Daily records of SO2, CO, particulate matter (PM10), O3 and NO2 concentrations were obtained from the State Air Pollution Controlling Agency of São Paulo. Associations between respiratory emergency visits and air pollution were assessed by simple comparative statistics, simple correlation analysis and by estimating a variety of regression models. Significant associations between the increase of respiratory emergency visits and air pollution were observed. The most robust associations were observed with PM10, and to a lesser extent with O3. These associations were stable across different model specifications and several controlling variables. A significant increase in the counts of respiratory emergency visits--more than 20%--was observed on the most polluted days, indicating that air pollution is a substantial paediatric health concern in São Paulo.