Fluorescence visualization for cancer DETECTION: EXPERIENCE and perspectives

The current review focuses on the latest advances in the improvement and application of fluorescence imaging technology. Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging is a promising new technique that uses non-specific fluorescent agents and targeted fluorescent tracers combined with a dedicated camera to better navigate and visualize tumors. Fluorescence-guided surgery (FGS) is used to perform various tasks, helping the surgeon to distinguish lymphatic vessels and nodes from surrounding tissues easily and quickly assess the perfusion of the planned resection area, including intraoperative visualization of metastases. The results of the insertion of fluorescence visualization as an auxiliary method to cancer detection and high-risk metastatic lesions in clinical practice have demonstrated enthusiastic results and huge potential. However, intraoperative fluorescence visualization must not be considered as a main diagnostic or treatment method but as an aid to the surgeon. Thus, fluorescence study does not dispense the diagnostic gold standards of benign or malignant tumors (conventional examination, biopsy, ultrasonography and computed tomography, etc.) and can be done usually during intraoperative treatment. Moreover, as fluorescence surgery and fluorescence diagnostic techniques continue to improve, it is likely that they will evolve towards targeted fluorescence imaging probes that will increasingly target a specific type of cancer cell. The most important point remains the search for highly selective messengers of fluorescent labels, which make it possible to identify tumor cells exclusively in the affected organs and indicate to surgeons the boundaries of their spread and metastasis.

Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and epigenetic potential of curcumin in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) constitutes a multifactorial neurodegenerative pathology characterized by cognitive deterioration, personality alterations, and behavioral shifts. The ongoing brain impairment process poses significant challenges for therapeutic interventions due to activating multiple neurotoxic pathways. Current pharmacological interventions have shown limited efficacy and are associated with significant side effects. Approaches focusing on the early interference with disease pathways, before activation of broad neurotoxic processes, could be promising to slow down symptomatic progression of the disease. Curcumin-an integral component of traditional medicine in numerous cultures worldwide-has garnered interest as a promising AD treatment. Current research indicates that curcumin may exhibit therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative pathologies, attributed to its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Additionally, curcumin and its derivatives have demonstrated an ability to modulate cellular pathways via epigenetic mechanisms. This article aims to raise awareness of the neuroprotective properties of curcuminoids that could provide therapeutic benefits in AD. The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the neuroprotective efficacy of curcumin against signaling pathways that could be involved in AD and summarizes recent evidence of the biological efficiency of curcumins in vivo.

Rare non-serous fallopian tube cancers: institutional experience and literature review

INTRODUCTION

We reviewed 63 reports from the literature on rare non-serous tumors of the fallopian tubes and carried out a comparative analysis of clinical manifestations and diagnostic methods. We also report our observations from patients with these tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Of 157 patients with primary fallopian tube cancer (FTC) treated in our regional oncological hospital between 1970 and 2020, there were nine (6%) cases of rare non-serous cancers, including one case each of choriocarcinoma, carcinosarcoma, and neuroendocrine tumor, and two cases each of non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma, mucinous adenocarcinoma, and clear cell adenocarcinoma.

RESULTS

For carcinosarcoma and squamous cell, clear cell, and transitional cell carcinomas, clinical history, patient age, and clinical manifestations were similar to the main group of FTCs. Choriocarcinoma differed significantly from other cancers of the fallopian tubes in terms of patient age and clinical course. Mucinous adenocarcinoma, mesothelioma, and borderline tumors, with rare exceptions, were almost always asymptomatic and were found only incidentally during surgery. Choriocarcinoma and carcinosarcoma had an aggressive course, while squamous cell, transitional cell, clear cell, and mucinous carcinomas were less aggressive. Since most rare non-serous tumors have a similar disease course to typical FTCs and there is a lack of appropriate treatment protocols for rare tumors, treatment options developed for ovarian tumors and FTC are justified for these tumors.

CONCLUSION

Rare non-serous malignant fallopian tube tumors are very similar to serous and endometrioid FTC in terms of clinical manifestations and diagnosis.

CEACAM expression in an in-vitro prostatitis model

Background

Prostatitis is an inflammatory disease of the prostate gland, which affects 2-16% of men worldwide and thought to be a cause for prostate cancer (PCa) development. Carcinoembryogenic antigen-related cell adhesion molecules (CEACAMs) are deregulated in inflammation and in PCa. The role of CEACAMs in prostate inflammation and their possible contribution to the malignant transformation of prostate epithelial cells is still elusive. In this study, we investigated the expression of CEACAMs in an in-vitro prostatitis model and their potential role in malignant transformation of prostate epithelial cells.

Methods

Normal prostate epithelial RWPE-1 cells were treated with pro-inflammatory cytokines to achieve an inflammatory state of the cells. The expression of CEACAMs and their related isoforms were analyzed. Additionally, the expression levels of selected CEACAMs were correlated with the expression of malignancy markers and the migratory properties of the cells.

Results

This study demonstrates that the pro-inflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and interferon-gamma (IFNγ), induce synergistically an up-regulation of CEACAM1 expression in RWPE-1 cells, specifically favoring the CEACAM1-L isoform. Furthermore, overexpressed CEACAM1-L is associated with the deregulated expression of JAK/STAT, NFκB, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) genes, as well as an increased cell migration.

Conclusion

We postulate that CEACAM1 isoform CEACAM1-4L may synergistically contribute to inflammation-induced oncogenesis in the prostate.

In Vivo Safety of New Coating for Biodegradable Magnesium Implants

Biodegradable Magnesium (Mg) implants are promising alternatives to permanent metallic prosthesis. To improve the biocompatibility and with the aim of degradation control, we provided Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO) of pure Mg implant in silicate-based solution with NaOH (S1 250 V) and Ca(OH)2 (S2 300 V). Despite the well-structured surface, S1 250 V implants induced enormous innate immunity reaction with the prevalence of neutrophils (MPO+) and M1-macrophages (CD68+), causing secondary alteration and massive necrosis in the peri-implant area in a week. This reaction was also accompanied by systemic changes in visceral organs affecting animals' survival after seven days of the experiment. In contrast, S2 300 V implantation was associated with focal lymphohistiocytic infiltration and granulation tissue formation, defining a more favorable outcome. This reaction was associated with the prevalence of M2-macrophages (CD163+) and high density of αSMA+ myofibroblasts, implying a resolution of inflammation and effective tissue repair at the site of the implantation. At 30 days, no remnants of S2 300 V implants were found, suggesting complete resorption with minor histological changes in peri-implant tissues. In conclusion, Ca(OH)2-contained silicate-based solution allows generating biocompatible coating reducing toxicity and immunogenicity with appropriate degradation properties that make it a promising candidate for medical applications.

Human CEACAM1 is targeted by a Streptococcus pyogenes adhesin implicated in puerperal sepsis pathogenesis

Life-threatening bacterial infections in women after childbirth, known as puerperal sepsis, resulted in classical epidemics and remain a global health problem. While outbreaks of puerperal sepsis have been ascribed to Streptococcus pyogenes, little is known about disease mechanisms. Here, we show that the bacterial R28 protein, which is epidemiologically associated with outbreaks of puerperal sepsis, specifically targets the human receptor CEACAM1. This interaction triggers events that would favor the development of puerperal sepsis, including adhesion to cervical cells, suppression of epithelial wound repair and subversion of innate immune responses. High-resolution structural analysis showed that an R28 domain with IgI3-like fold binds to the N-terminal domain of CEACAM1. Together, these findings demonstrate that a single adhesin-receptor interaction can drive the pathogenesis of bacterial sepsis and provide molecular insights into the pathogenesis of one of the most important infectious diseases in medical history.

Metal ions doping effect on the physicochemical, antimicrobial, and wound healing profiles of alginate-based composite

The alginate (Alg) matrix with immobilized hydroxyapatite (HAp) and zinc oxide (ZnO), cross-linked by chitosan (CS) and metal ions (Meⁿ⁺) Ca²⁺, Zn²⁺, and Cu²⁺ was created as a wound dressing. The effect of Meⁿ⁺ and their concentrations on water vapor transition, fluid handling, dehydration, drug release, and healing are shown. Me-containing samples have a lower sorption capacity, than a commercial Kaltostat, however, a much lower degree of their dehydration provides a longer wound wet. The Meⁿ⁺ presence lowers the environmental pH to slightly acidic values promoting healing. Ca²⁺, Zn²⁺, and Cu²⁺ in complexes with CS increase antimicrobial effect against E. coli and S. aureus, slow down the Anaesthesine release, making it compatible with Fickian diffusion in the Zn²⁺ and Cu²⁺ presence, and non-Fickian transport under Ca²⁺ influence. The material promotes the proliferation of the fibroblasts, an increase of collagen fibres, and new arterial and venous capillaries, indicating the intensity of the healing process.

Multilevel Pharmacological Effects of Antipsychotics in Potential Glioblastoma Treatment

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is a debilitating type of brain cancer with a high mortality rate. Despite current treatment options such as surgery, radiotherapy, and the use of temozolomide and bevacizumab, it is considered incurable. Various methods, such as drug repositioning, have been used to increase the number of available treatments. Drug repositioning is the use of FDA-approved drugs to treat other diseases. This is possible because the drugs used for this purpose have polypharmacological effects. This means that these medications can bind to multiple targets, resulting in multiple mechanisms of action. Antipsychotics are one type of drug used to treat GBM. Antipsychotics are a broad class of drugs that can be further subdivided into typical and atypical classes. Typical antipsychotics include chlorpromazine, trifluoperazine, and pimozide. This class of antipsychotics was developed early on and primarily works on dopamine D2 receptors, though it can also work on others. Olanzapine and Quetiapine are examples of atypical antipsychotics, a category that was created later. These medications have a high affinity for serotonin receptors such as 5- HT2, but they can also act on dopamine and H1 receptors. Antipsychotic medications, in the case of GBM, also have other effects that can affect multiple pathways due to their polypharmacological effects. These include NF-B suppression, cyclin deregulation, and -catenin phosphorylation, among others. This review will delve deeper into the polypharmacological, the multiple effects of antipsychotics in the treatment of GBM, and an outlook for the field's future progression.

Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Fallopian Tube and Serous Adenocarcinoma of the Ovary: Multicentric Primary Tumors

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) comprise a large group of tumors that are most often localized in the gastrointestinal tract and lungs. They are rarely found in the organs of the female reproductive tract; such NETs are primarily localized in the ovaries. We present a case of multicentric primary low-grade NET of the fallopian tube and high-grade ovarian serous adenocarcinoma. In both tumor regions, the histotypes of neoplasms were determined by morphological and immunohistochemical investigations. The NET of the fallopian tube was diffusely positive for chromogranin A and CD56, but wild type for p53 and negative for CK7, CK20, and ER; Ki-67 expression was observed in 3% of the neoplastic cells. The ovarian serous adenocarcinoma was positive for CK7 and ER, mutant for p53, but negative for chromogranin A, CK20, and CD56; Ki-67 expression was observed in 45% of the tumor cells. These results support the possibility that NET can occur in the female reproductive tract and coexist with other malignant tumors.

COX2 Effects on endometrial carcinomas progression

Uterine corpus cancer is one of the most prevalent gynecologic malignancies, among which endometrial cancers (EC) represent about 90 %. Despite the proven predictive value of several immunohistochemical markers, there remains a need to identify new indicators of EC progression and exploit them for therapeutic purposes. Potential candidates with diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy include cyclooxygenases (COXs). We studied 50 EC cases: 30 endometrioid (EEC), 10 serous (SEC), 10 clear-cell endometrial carcinomas (CCEC) and 10 cases of normal endometrial tissues. We investigated the expression of COX2, ER, PR, Ki-67, EGFR, p53, Bcl-2, VEGF, MMP1, CD31, and CD163 immunohistochemically. COX2 levels in EC tissue are elevated compared to the normal endometrium and depend on tumour histological features and differentiation. Elevated COX2 leads to increased tumour cell proliferation, apoptosis inhibition, increased VEGF expression, microvessel density, and M2 macrophage infiltration, and inhibition of PR expression. ER, EGFR, and MMP1 levels are unaffected by COX2, whose levels are independent of patient age and FIGO stage.

MXene-Assisted Ablation of Cells with a Pulsed Near-Infrared Laser

Innovative therapies are urgently needed to combat cancer. Thermal ablation of tumor cells is a promising minimally invasive treatment option. Infrared light can penetrate human tissues and reach superficial malignancies. MXenes are a class of 2D materials that consist of carbides/nitrides of transition metals. The transverse surface plasmons of MXenes allow for efficient light absorption and light-to-heat conversion, making MXenes promising agents for photothermal therapy (PTT). To date, near-infrared (NIR) light lasers have been used in PTT studies explicitly in a continuous mode. We hypothesized that pulsed NIR lasers have certain advantages for the development of tailored PTT treatment targeting tumor cells. The pulsed lasers offer a wide range of controllable parameters, such as power density, duration of pulses, pulse frequency, and so on. Consequently, they can lower the total energy applied and enable the ablation of tumor cells while sparing adjacent healthy tissues. We show for the first time that a pulsed 1064 nm laser could be employed for selective ablation of cells loaded with Ti₃C₂T_x MXene. We demonstrate both low toxicity and good biocompatibility of this MXene in vitro, as well as a favorable safety profile based on the experiments in vivo. Furthermore, we analyze the interaction of MXene with cells in several cell lines and discuss possible artifacts of commonly used cellular metabolic assays in experiments with MXenes. Overall, these studies provide a basis for the development of efficient and safe protocols for minimally invasive therapies for certain tumors.

Detection of melanin in the rat skin

Melanogenesis disorder is called dyschromia, is involved in various conditions including vitiligo, solar lentigo, and melanoma, the last of which is the most malignant type of skin cancer.

AIM

The aim of study was focused on histological visualization of melanogenic system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To investigate the roles of melanocytes and melanin, we used a rat skin as an experimental animal. Samples were stained using hematoxylin-eosin, the Schmorl's technique, the Fontana-Masson technique, the Warthin-Starry technique, and the S100 immunohistochemistry marker technique. Microscopy images were analyzed using the ImageJ free software protocol.

RESULTS

We found Fontana-Masson staining to be the most suitable for obtaining reliable results compared with the other methods, which had more disadvantages. We also found the S100 marker staining to be an effective tool for measuring the melanocyte count.

CONCLUSIONS

We consider the ImageJ processing protocol and staining procedures to be useful tools to estimate melanin and melanocyte pathology.

Invasive Breast Carcinoma of No Special Type with Medullary Pattern: Morphological and Immunohistochemical Features

OBJECTIVE

Our study investigated the morphological and immunohistochemical characteristics of invasive breast carcinoma of no special type (IBC-NST) with medullary pattern to explore the inconsistencies between the structural and clinical traits of this category of tumor.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

The breast carcinoma samples (n = 26) with medullary pattern (defined according to established criteria) were subjected to immunohistochemical assays of the following receptors: ER, PR, HER2/neu, Ki-67, p53, Bcl-2, VEGF, MMP1, E-cadherin, EGFR, Hsp70, Hsp90, CD20, CD3, CD4, CD8, CD68, CD163, CD56, CD138, MPO, S100, IgG, IgM, and PD-L1.

RESULTS

IBC-NST with medullary pattern was found to have negative expression of ER, PR, and HER2/neu; strong positive expression of Kі-67, mutant р53, Bcl-2, E-cadherin, EGFR, and PD-L1; moderate positive expression of Hsp70 and Hsp90; and low or negative expression of VEGF and MMP1. Furthermore, there was pronounced variability in the qualitative composition of tumor immune infiltrates with regards to T-lymphocytes, B-lymphocytes, macrophages, plasmocytes, and granulocytes.

CONCLUSION

IBC-NST with medullary pattern has many unfavourable morphological and immunohistochemical prognostic characteristics, which are balanced against the pronounced protective properties of the tumor cells and the qualitative characteristics of the tumor microenvironment. These can lead to a favourable disease course despite the relatively adverse features of the carcinoma cells.

Morphological features of the rat uterus

The rat uterus is an important female reproductive organ that has essential for the organism's reproduction. That is why it is necessary to understand all the rat uterus' morphological features as a perfect biomodel for studying the molecular peculiarities of the female reproductive system and pathologies development in experimental studies.

AIM

The aim of research was to perform the comprehensive morphological analysis of the uterine in intact female rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The uterine of reproductive-aged intact female rats were used in this research. The cytological study of vaginal smears, histological (H and E), and immunohistochemical (estrogen, progesterone, and Ki-67 receptors) analysis of uterus tissues were used for light microscopic examination.

RESULTS

The rat's vaginal smears' cytological features showed a specific qualitative cellular composition (variation of leukocytes, nucleated and anucleated cornified epithelial cells) in different estrous cycle phases (proestrus, estrus, metestrus, and diestrus). Uterine histology showed the structural regularities of parenchymal and stromal components with clear differentiation on the endometrium, myometrium and perimetrium. It was presented uterus sensitivity to the influence of the sex hormones (positive to estrogen and progesterone receptors) and the variable cellular proliferation activity (Ki-67 expression) in the organ wall.

CONCLUSIONS

Our research demonstrated that the rats« uterus has a unique structural organization, sex hormones sensitivity, and variable proliferation in the parenchymal and stromal components. The rat estrous cycle should be considered while studying the morphological features of the uterus. The rat's uterus may serve as an acceptable object for modeling various pathological processes with the following results' extrapolation.

The Expression of Prolactin Receptors in Benign Breast Tumors Is Not Associated with Serum Prolactin Level

The role of prolactin (PRL) and its receptors in the initiation and development of benign breast tumors (BBT) has not been sufficiently studied. An imbalance in the system of hormone homeostasis is crucial in the development of BBT. In particular, an association between elevated prolactin levels and the development of BBT has been reported. Our study showed no significant differences between PRL receptor (PRL-R) expression in BBT tissue under normal and elevated serum PRL levels. There was also no significant correlation between age, PRL-R expression in BBT tissue, intact tissue, and PRL level in the serum. There was a strong significant correlation (p < 0.01; r = 0.92) between PRL-R expression in BBT samples and intact breast tissue, which did not depend on the serum PRL level. There was also no significant difference in the expression of the proliferative marker Ki-67 in BBT tissues from women with normal and elevated levels of serum PRL (p > 0.05). No signs of PRL and its receptors were detected in the BBT cystic fluid women with elevated serum PRL levels. In summary, our prospective study showed that the expression of PRL-R in the tissue of BBT and physiological breast tissue does not depend on the level of serum PRL.

Bacterial protein domains with a novel Ig-like fold target human CEACAM receptors

Streptococcus agalactiae, also known as group B Streptococcus (GBS), is the major cause of neonatal sepsis in humans. A critical step to infection is adhesion of bacteria to epithelial surfaces. GBS adhesins have been identified to bind extracellular matrix components and cellular receptors. However, several putative adhesins have no host binding partner characterised. We report here that surface‐expressed β protein of GBS binds to human CEACAM1 and CEACAM5 receptors. A crystal structure of the complex showed that an IgSF domain in β represents a novel Ig‐fold subtype called IgI3, in which unique features allow binding to CEACAM1. Bioinformatic assessment revealed that this newly identified IgI3 fold is not exclusively present in GBS but is predicted to be present in adhesins from other clinically important human pathogens. In agreement with this prediction, we found that CEACAM1 binds to an IgI3 domain found in an adhesin from a different streptococcal species. Overall, our results indicate that the IgI3 fold could provide a broadly applied mechanism for bacteria to target CEACAMs.

Low-frequency ultrasound increase effectiveness of silver nanoparticles in a purulent wound model

Bacterial biofilm formation and antibiotic resistance are the main factors of surgical wound complications. Traditional treatments in some cases cannot provide complete bacterial eradication and new therapeutic approaches should be developed to overcome antibiotic resistance. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) can be the first choice for bacteria treatment but their clinical application is limited due to toxic effects. Combination of AgNPs with the low-frequency ultrasound (US) treatment expected to decrease toxicity and leads to the facilitation of wound healing. In current research we investigated the antibacterial activity of AgNPs per se and in combination with low-frequency US, assessed the cytotoxicity of AgNPs on human dermal fibroblasts and finally, wound healing was evaluated in purulent wound model (96 white laboratory rats) applying AgNPs and US as a treatment strategy. Our results demonstrate no toxic effect of AgNPs in minimum inhibitory concentrations and show increasing their antibacterial effectiveness after US application. The combination of low-frequency US and AgNPs provides reduction of the inflammatory reaction, microorganism elimination and leads to facilitation of new tissue formation with complete epithelization. All effects were significant over the Chlorhexidine treatment, monotherapy with AgNPs or US. Advanced effectiveness of complex therapy opens new perspectives for clinical application of AgNPs solution accompanied by US.

Fluorophore-conjugated Helicobacter pylori recombinant membrane protein (HopQ) labels primary colon cancer and metastases in orthotopic mouse models by binding CEA-related cell adhesion molecules

HopQ is an outer-membrane protein of Helicobacter pylori that binds to human carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell-adhesion molecules (CEACAMs) with high specificity. We aimed to investigate fluorescence targeting of CEACAM-expressing colorectal tumors in patient-derived orthotopic xenograft (PDOX) models with fluorescently labeled recombinant HopQ (rHopQ). Western blotting, flow cytometry and ELISA were performed to determine the efficiency of rHopQ binding to CEACAMs. rHopQ was conjugated to IR800DyeCW (rHopQ-IR800). Nude mice received orthotopic implantation of colon cancer tumors. Three weeks later, mice were administered 25 μg or 50 μg HopQ-IR800 and imaged 24 or 48 h later. Intravital images were analyzed for tumor-to-background ratio (TBR). Flow cytometry and ELISA demonstrated binding of HopQ to CEACAM1, 3 and 5. Dose-response intravital imaging in PDOX models demonstrated optimal results 48 h after administration of 50 μg rHopQ-IR800 (TBR = 3.576) in our protocol. Orthotopic models demonstrated clear tumor margins of primary tumors and small regional metastases with a mean TBR = 3.678 (SD ± 1.027). rHopQ showed specific binding to various CEACAMs in PDOX models. rHopQ may be useful for CEACAM-positive tumor and metastasis detection for pre-surgical diagnosis, intra-operative imaging and fluorescence-guided surgery.

Serous Adenocarcinoma of Fallopian Tubes: Histological and Immunohistochemical Aspects

BACKGROUND

Although primary cancer of the fallopian tubes is a relatively rare type of tumor in female reproductive organs, its mortality is quite high. It is important to identify molecular and biological markers of this malignancy that determine its specific phenotype.

METHODS

The study was carried out on samples received from 71 female patients with primary cancer of the fallopian tubes. The main molecular and biological properties, including hormone status (estrogen receptor [ER], progesterone receptor [PR]), human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2)/neu expression, proliferative potential (Ki-67), apoptosis (p53, Bcl-2), and pro-angiogenic (vascular endothelial growth factor) quality of serous tumors were studied in comparison with clinical and morphological characteristics.

RESULTS

ER and PR expression is accompanied by low grade neoplasia, early clinical disease stage, and absence of lymphogenic metastasis (p < .001). HER2/neu expression is not typical for primary cancer of the fallopian tubes. Ki-67 expression is characterized by an inverse correlation with ER and PR (p < .05) and is associated with lymphogenic metastasis (p < .01). p53+ status correlates with high grade malignancy, tumor progression, metastasis, negative ER/PR (p < .001), and negative Bcl-2 status (p < .05). Positive Bcl-2 status is positively correlated with ER and PR expression and low grade malignancy.

CONCLUSIONS

Complex morphologic (histological and immunohistochemical) study of postoperative material allows estimation of the degree of malignancy and tumor spread to enable appropriate treatment for each case.

The case of undiagnosed immunodeficiency in child from mother with leukemia anamnesis

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in pregnant women is rare experience, but it can complicate the gestation by increasing the risk of miscarriage and premature birth. However, the adequate carrying of the pregnancy is possible for women who suffered from leukemia in childhood and achieved the remission during the treatment. Furthermore, there are some facts about the possibility of immunosuppression in children whose parents suffer from various immunodeficiency disorders, including ALL. This clinical case demonstrates the importance of correct diagnostics in order to reveal the congenital pathologies of the immune system in children, whose parents suffered from lymphocytic leukemia, even in case of full clinical and laboratory remission for a significant period of time. In the hospital, the thread metric approach was used for sepsis diagnostics. Conducted treatment was ineffective due to the inadequate immune response in the child and lack of the targeted adjusted measures to immunodeficiency disorder. The present case demonstrates the congenital T-cells immunodeficiency in a child who was complicated by the development of acute ulceronecrotic enterocolitis after vaccination. The treatment that was targeted mainly at the agent eradication did not give the desired results due to non-responsiveness of the immune system of the child.

Morphofunctional features of articular cartilage structure

BACKGROUND

Articular cartilage is highly-organized nonvascularized tissue which is responsible in humans for pressure absorption under load, as well as for the smoothness of the opposite tangential bone surfaces. The purpose of our research is to study structural and functional features of articular cartilage at light- optical level by using state-of-the-art research methods of bone-cartilage tissue.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

the study was conducted on samples of femoral heads. Hyper fine sections were subject to hematoxylin and eosin, Van Gieson's and PAS staining. In order to identify the receptor profile of chondrocytes and the features of protein arrangement in extracellular matrix we undertook an immunohistochemical study.

RESULTS

An articular cartilage is quite organized tissue. As any other organ, it has parenchyma and stroma. Parenchyma is represented by one type of cells - chondrocytes, which, depending on how deep they are located in cartilage, have a different shape, size and functional features. The chondrocytes and extracellular matrix have different degrees of receptors expression.

CONCLUSIONS

the cartilage is being constantly self-renewed, what is manifested by means of a rather slow division of the surface-located chondrocytes and programmed death of dystrophic-modi ed cells. The features of extracellular matrix structure determine the originality of cell location in different areas of cartilage tissue. Due to synthesis of specific proteins, chondrocytes self-regulate properties of cartilage tissue.

Heavy metals effect on breast cancer progression

Background

Breast cancer is the most frequent localization of malignant process in American women and women of European countries. To date it is not possible to control the morbidity growth due to lack of effective ways of primary prevention. Comparing the incidence of breast cancer in developed countries with the countries of Asia and Africa, there is the fact of population predominance lesion in more urbanized countries. This suggests that the environment along with other factors, occupies a significant place in the initiation and progression of breast neoplasia. The impressive rates of industrial development led to the pollution of soil, surface water and, as a consequence, food by heavy metal salts.

The purposes of this paper are as follows: the chemical composition determination of neoplastic breast tissue, evaluation of the DNA methylation level, study of prognostic-important receptors expression in the breast cancer cells, establishing linkages between all the derived indicators.

Methods

In our study we used the following methods: studying of the chemical composition of breast cancer tissue by atomic absorption spectrophotometry and energy-dispersion spectrometer; іmmunohistochemical study of ER, PR, HER2/neu, p53, Ki-67, E-cadherin and MGMT receptors; DNA extraction and investigation by oscillating infrared spectroscopy method.

Results

The total amount of heavy metals in breast cancer tissue ranged from 51.21 × 10⁻³ to 84.86 × 10⁻³ μg/kg. We have got the following results: the growth of heavy metals in neoplastic tissue is accompanied with the increase of HER2/neu, p53, Ki-67, MGMT expression and decrease of ER and PR expression. The increment of pathological DNA methylation is accompanied with the increasing amount of heavy metals in tumor tissue.

Conclusions

Heavy metals through different pathogenetic links stimulate the progression of breast cancer and reduce its sensitivity to treatment. DNA of tumor tissue has a different level of methylation which changes with the amount of heavy metals in cancer cells. This is displayed on the synthesis of prognostically important receptors in neoplastic tissue.

Changes in the Hematopoietic System and Blood Under the Influence of Heavy Metal Salts Can Be Reduced with Vitamin E

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our work was to study the blood parameters and bone marrow morphological changes in rats exposed to increased amounts of heavy metal salts and the effect of vitamin E.

MATERIAL AND METHOD

Investigation of bone marrow structural features and blood parameters was performed in sexually mature Wistar male rats (n=84).

RESULTS

Exposure to increased amounts of heavy metal salts led to the inhibition of erythropoiesis and leukopoiesis, as well as a synchronized increase in the number of megakaryocytes which was clearly reflected in the blood: the number of erythrocytes, leukocytes and Hb decreased, and the number of platelets increased. These changes in the blood and bone marrow were less pronounced when vitamin E was used as an adjuster.

CONCLUSION

When increased amounts of HMS enter the rats` bodies, suppression of erythropoiesis and leukocytopoiesis occurs while thrombocytopoiesis increases. These changes depend on the period of intake of heavy metal salts. The adjustment of vitamin E reduces the severity of the cytotoxic effect of heavy metals and improves readaptation in the recovery period.

Anatomical and morphological aspects of papillae, epithelium, muscles, and glands of rats' tongue: Light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopic study

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the research results of the morphological structure of white laboratory rats' tongue at the macro-, micro-, and ultrastructural levels by scanning, light, and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

Our results show that the tongue of these rats has a number of unique morphological features that are different from the tongue of other rodents consequently to allow identifying their species-specific features.

Conclusions

Our findings have shown the features of the tongue structure of white laboratory rats at micro-, macro-, and ultrascopic levels. The data analysis revealed that mucous membrane of the tongue contains a large number of papillae, such as fungiform, filiform, foliate, vallate, and multifilamentary papillae. Each has a different shape, size, and location. The tongue's morphological feature consists of three types of filiform papillae, well-developed foliate and multifilamentary papillae, as well as one large and similar smaller circumvallate papillae. The muscle of the tongue contains a large number of mitochondria of different shapes and sizes. However, we have received data for a complete picture of structure of this organ that will be useful in further experimental and morphological studies of the white laboratory rats.

The features of morphological changes in the urinary bladder under combined effect of heavy metal salts

PURPOSE

This study is aimed to the investigation of the features of morphological changes in the urinary bladder of mature rats.

RESULTS

Received results shown that the experimental group of rats that had the intake of heavy metal salts (HMS) mixture during 30 and 90 days were observed histological and immunohistochemical changes in all structures of the urinary bladder. Depending on the period of influence of heavy metal ions on the wall of the organ, the pathological changes developed in cellular layers of the wall can lead to degenerative and later to atrophic and sclerotic changes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates that high concentrations of HMS can significantly influence the body. The histological and immunohistochemical studies showed that the influence of the HMS combination leads to deep morphological changes in all structures of the urinary bladder. These changes depend on the period of intake of HMS. Analysis of the obtained results demonstrates the dependence of expression of morphological changes in the urinary bladder on the experiment duration. The final result of these changes may lead to the disorders of bladder's functions.

Structural features of bone marrow

PURPOSE

This article is devoted to the investigation of the structural features of the bone marrow of mature rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The investigation of the structural features of the bone marrow was performed on the femurs of the mature male rats. General structure of the organ was studied with hematoxylin-eosin and Van Gieson staining of samples. Certain features of the bone marrow structure were studied using immunohistochemical method (CD3, CD79α, S100, myeloperoxidase, and cyclin D1).

RESULTS

We can state that stromal-parenchymal structure is typical for the bone marrow of rats as for any other organ. The stromal component is presented with bone tissue (48.8 ± 3.3% at epiphyses), the net of blood vessels (18.7 ± 2.1%), fat tissue (11 ± 2%), fibrous tissue (0.7 ± 0.2%), and the network of reticular fibers. Hematopoietic tissue covers 20.9 ± 3.7% at the femoral epiphyses and 69.6 ± 2.2% at diaphysis. Among these tissues, myelopoiesis occupies 74.2 ± 4.7%, erythropoiesis - 24.3 ± 4.7%, and lymphopoiesis - less than 5%. Megalokaryocytes take 0.1-0.3%.

CONCLUSION

Considering the lack of significant anatomical, morphological, and histological differences of red bone marrow of rats and humans, we can state that hematopoiesis in rats takes place on the basis of the same principles as in humans, although it has certain mechanisms.

Multifocal primary tumour with lesions in prostate gland and urinary bladder: clinical case

In some cases a combination of several malignant tumours in one person can be observed. In such case it is the multifocal primary tumour (MPT). The tumours combination in genitourinary system is rare phenomenon, including a rare combination of prostate and urinary bladder cancers. These pathologies can be caused by both the endogenous factors - age, gender, heredity, inflammatory and proliferative processes, abnormal inclusions (calculi and amyloids) and exogenous factors, among which the leading cause is the environmental pollution (heavy metals salts and others), bad habits, occupational hazards, oncogenic viruses and ionizing radiation. A 76 - year- old male patient, Ukrainian, was hospitalized at urology department with complaints on pollakiuria, frequent urinary retention, haematuria appeared about 1 month before. After examination of patient the preliminary diagnosis was made: «Urinary bladder cancer, acute urinary retention, macrohematuria and posthemorrhagic anemia». Based on the histological and immunohistochemical examinations, the final diagnosis was determined: combined malignant tumours - acinar adenocarcinoma of prostate index 9 (5 + 4) accordimg to D.F. Gleason and invasive urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder. This clinical case demonstrates that the probability of combined oncologic cancer pathology with lesions in one system is rather high. Therefore, in order to exclude the cancer combinations, the patients with malignant tumour in the genitourinary system should undergo a complex examination.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.161-165

The Role of Heavy Metal Salts in Pathological Biomineralization of Breast Cancer Tissue

BACKGROUND

The process of pathological biomineralization plays an important part in the morphogenesis of tumors. The role of heavy metal salts in the pathological mineralization of breast cancer tissue should not be ruled out, considering their ability to enter into covalent bonds with calcium salt molecules.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to investigate the microelement composition of breast cancer calcifications and the participation of heavy metals in their formation process.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The material for the study consisted of 20 specimens of breast cancer tissue in which calcifications had been found in histological tests (hematoxylin-eozin and alizarin red S staining). The chemical composition of the calcifications was studied using a scanning electron microscope with an energy-dispersive spectrometer.

RESULTS

Alizarin red S staining detected the presence of concrements in tumor tissue and rings of calcification around these deposits. Examining the biomineralization with energy dispersive spectrometry showed that along with calcium and phosphorus, it contained microelements such as iron, zinc, copper, chromium and nickel, which can replace calcium ions in the exterior part of hydroxyapatite molecules. This causes the hydroxyapatite molecule's molar mass to increase and its solubility to decrease; its chances of being deposited in tumor tissue also increase. This implies that an increased intake of heavy metal salts in organisms can lead to pathological mineralization of breast cancer tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

Excessive intake of heavy metal salts into the body leads to their involvement in the pathological mineralization of breast cancer tissue. This happens due to these salts bonding to hydroxyapatite molecules, direct sedimentation of proteins and increasing degenerative-necrotic changes in breast cancer tissue as the mineralization process progresses.

A rare case of tuberculous salpingitis

The objective of this study was to give an overview of a rare case of tuberculosis of the left fallopian tube in postmenopausal women. It is known that the isolated tuberculous salpingitis without spreading to the endometrium is extremely rare case. In our case, it simulated a cancer of appendages at the late stages that were proved by the increased level of CA-125. This fact as well as the macroscopic image of the left fallopian tube was incorrectly considered by the clinicians as a malignant neoplasm of fallopian tube. However, after pathomorphological examination of postoperative samples during histological study, the main method of verification of the diagnosis, revealed the specific granulomas in the samples that indicate the tubercular inflammation. It was considered by clinical and laboratory as data secondary focus.

The microscopic and ultramicroscopic changes in the skeletal muscles, caused by heavy metal salts

PURPOSE

The article is devoted to study the structural changes in the skeletal muscles caused by heavy metal salts.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was conducted on 72 mature male rats. The experimental groups were given to drink water with combinations of heavy metal salts for one, two and three months. This type of water is typical for the water basins in the northern districts of the Sumy region. The study of morphological changes in the striated muscles was concluded using light and scanning electron microscopy.

RESULTS

The data analysis revealed that a prolonged duration of negative factor could intensify sclerotic and edematous processes. The structure of muscle fibers was destroyed, nuclei were deformed and placed irregularly, and many petechial hemorrhages occurred. Besides, cross-striation was irregular, I and A bands were deformed and destroyed, H band was hardly visualized. The inner mitochondrial membrane and cristae become deformed. The symplastic nuclei were placed irregularly within sarcoplasm. Besides, they were swollen. Against swollen and enlarged symplastic nuclei, pyknotic nuclei were also found. The structures of sarcoplasmic reticulum were mainly dilated with deformed and ruptured areas.

CONCLUSION

Our study approves that high concentrations of heavy metal salts have a destructive influence on the skeletal striated muscles.

Primary cancer of the fallopian tubes: histological and immunohistochemical features

The rare occurrence of the fallopian tubes cancer allows to assert that the experience of even a small number of observations has a undoubted scientific and practical interest. Nowadays this type of neoplasia occurs more o en in practical oncogynecology and is the primary source of serous ovarian and peritoneal tumors. The determination of tissue receptor status of primary fallopian tube cancer (ER, PR, Ki-67, HER2 / neu) will verify the degree of biological malignancy and predict the course of disease and suggest appropriate methods of treatment.

STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN SUBMANDIBULAR SALIVARY GLAND, CAUSED BY HEAVY METAL SALTS, AND THEIR CORRECTION WITH DIALIPON (EXPERIMENTAL STUDY)

Setting of possibilities of structural changes correction in submandibular salivary gland with a Dialipone drug, caused by adverse effect of heavy metals salts on an organisms of different age group rats. Structural changes and their correction were studied on the histological preparations basis painted by hematoxylin-eozin, Van-Gizon, PAS reaction, investigated and photographed by means of the digital image display system "SEO Scan". In comparison to the results of submandibular salivary gland tissue histological research of animals without any correction of microelementosis, animals that took Dialipone are marked with a better glandular epithelium saving, less widespreading of dystrophic and dyscirculatory changes, sclerotization processes in stroma. When comparing of Dialipone restoration possibilities, it was set, that different age group animals show different application efficiency of the corrector. The rats of young and mature age have more complete renewal of structural changes. The rats of advanced age show worse reparative capabilities, less complete and effective renewal of structural changes.

Mechanisms of morphogenetic disorders in the lower jaw under the influence of heavy metal salts on the body

In the experiment on the 36 mature rats, the peculiarities of morphological disorders in the lower jaw of rats under the influence of salts of chromium, lead, zinc, iron, copper, and manganese are showed. Profound morphological changes in bone and cartilaginous tissues of lower jaw are followed by disorders of bone mineral content. The importance of the S100 protein in morphological changes in bone and cartilaginous tissues under the influence of heavy metal salts is shown.

Pathogenetic mechanisms of heavy metals effect on proapoptotic and proliferative potential of breast cancer

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chemical composition was studied with the help of the scanning electron microscope with energy-dispersion spectrometer. Immunohistochemical reaction showed the p53 and Ki-67 receptors expression. The study of DNA fragmentation was performed in agarose gel.

RESULTS

There was an interrelation between the accumulations of the trace elements with the degree of cancer malignancy. There were 85% of cases with positive reaction to Ki-67 and 40% cases with positive reaction to p53. We found a moderate correlation between the accumulation of microelements in the breast cancer tissue and the level of proliferative activity. We noted the combination of the increase of DNA fragmentation with the expression of p53 and Ki-67 receptors.

CONCLUSIONS

The trace elements can cause the initiation and the progression of the tumorous growth, which is expressed in the increased proliferation of tumor cells. This leads to the destabilization of the genetic material which can be expressed in the synthesis of mutant p53 protein. Finally, it leads to the block of apoptosis and regulatory effects of cells. This can cause the tumor progression and the destabilization of the genome, which is reflected in the increased DNA fragmentation.

Histological and immunohistochemical features of medullary breast cancer

Disputes take place among many scientists about the position of MC in the classification of breast cancer. Some say that this kind of tumor is a sign of invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC). Instead, most of modern researchers distinguish MC of the breast as a separate nosological unit. Primarily there were selected 20 cases of MC and 10 cases of IDC (as control group). The immunohistochemical study revealed the presence of ER, PR, HER2/neo, p53, Ki-67, MMP1 and E-cadherin receptors. In the study of receptor status of tumors it was observed that 100% of MC cases were estrogen-, progesterone- and HER2/ neu negative. The status of tumors on receptor p53 and Ki-67 was as follows: p53+ status had 80% and Ki-67+ had 85% of tissues of MC. In 75% of cases MC cells expressed marker of adhesion and in 100% of cases cells were receptor-negative for expression of MMP1. The data of the study show that the invasive ductal carcinoma and medullary carcinoma are completely independent and different types of malignancy in the breast. The favorable behavior of medullary cancer is associated with expression of E-cadherin receptors, which are essentially adhesion factor and absence of MMP1 which are factors of metastatic potential of the tumor.