Abnormal glomerular basement membrane maturation impairs mesangial cell differentiation during murine postnatal nephrogenesis

Although mesangial cell-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) connections play a key role in maintaining the glomerular capillary loop structure, information remains limited about how these connections are formed during glomerulogenesis. We have previously shown that weakened podocyte-GBM interactions owing to tensin 2 (Tns2) deficiency lead to abnormal GBM maturation during postnatal glomerulogenesis. Here, we investigated whether abnormal GBM maturation affected mesangial cell-GBM connections and mesangial cell differentiation. Histological analysis of the outer cortical glomeruli in Tns2-deficient mice revealed that GBM materials overproduced by stressed immature podocytes accumulated in the mesangium and interrupted the formation of mesangial cell-GBM connections, resulting in fewer capillary loops compared with that of normal glomeruli. In addition, expression of α-smooth muscle actin, an immature mesangial cell marker, persisted in mesangial cells of Tns2-deficient outer cortical glomeruli even after glomerulogenesis was completed, resulting in mesangial expansion. Furthermore, analysis of mouse primary mesangial cells revealed that mesangial cell differentiation depended on the type of extracellular matrix components to which the cells adhered, suggesting the participation of mesangial cell-GBM connections in mesangial cell differentiation. These findings suggest that abnormal GBM maturation affects mesangial cell differentiation by impairing mesangial cell-GBM connections.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Mesangial cell-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) connections play an important role in maintaining the structural integrity of the glomerular tuft. However, information remains scarce about how GBM maturation affects the formation of these connections during glomerular development. Here, we show that abnormal GBM maturation due to tensin 2 deficiency affects mesangial cell differentiation by impairing mesangial cell-GBM connections during postnatal glomerulogenesis.

Tensin2 is important for podocyte-glomerular basement membrane interaction and integrity of the glomerular filtration barrier

Tensin2 (Tns2), an integrin-linked protein, is enriched in podocytes within the glomerulus. Previous studies have revealed that Tns2-deficient mice exhibit defects of the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) soon after birth in a strain-dependent manner. However, the mechanisms for the onset of defects caused by Tns2 deficiency remains unidentified. Here, we aimed to determine the role of Tns2 using newborn Tns2-deficient mice and murine primary podocytes. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that developing glomeruli during postnatal nephrogenesis exhibited abnormal GBM processing due to ectopic laminin-α₂ accumulation followed by GBM thickening. In addition, analysis of primary podocytes revealed that Tns2 deficiency led to impaired podocyte-GBM interaction and massive expression of laminin-α₂ in podocytes. Our study suggests that weakened podocyte-GBM interaction due to Tns2 deficiency causes increased mechanical stress on podocytes by continuous daily filtration after birth, resulting in stressed podocytes ectopically producing laminin-α₂, which interrupts GBM processing. We conclude that Tns2 plays important roles in the podocyte-GBM interaction and maintenance of the glomerular filtration barrier.

Expression and localization of cellular FLICE-like inhibitory protein (cFLIP), an anti-apoptotic factor, in corpora lutea during the estrous cycle and pregnancy in Thai swamp buffalo <i>(Bubalus bubalis)</i>

In female mammals, luteal cells rapidly proliferate and form corpora lutea (CLs) after ovulation. The corpus luteum (CL) plays crucial roles in establishing and maintaining pregnancy. To gain further insights into the role of cellular FLICE-like inhibitory protein (cFLIP), an anti-apoptosis factor that is structurally similar to procaspase-8 but lacks proteolytic enzyme activity, we examined the expression in CLs of Thai swamp buffalos (Bubalus bubalis) during the early, mid, and late stage of the estrous cycle and pregnancy. cFLIP short form and long form (cFLIP<inf>S</inf> and cFLIP<inf>L</inf>, respectively) mRNA and protein levels were assessed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. cFLIP<inf>S</inf> mRNA levels were low in the mid and late stages of the estrous cycle and increased during pregnancy (P < 0.05). cFLIP<inf>L</inf> mRNA was highly expressed in CLs during pregnancy and was lower in the mid and late stages of the estrous cycle. The level of cFLIP<inf>S</inf> protein was high in CLs during pregnancy and low levels were noted in the mid stage of the estrous cycle (P < 0.05). Higher levels of cFLIP<inf>L</inf> protein were demonstrated in CLs during pregnancy and lower levels were found in CLs during the early stage of the estrous cycle. Strong positive immunohistochemical staining for cFLIP<inf>S/L</inf> proteins was observed in luteal cells during pregnancy. The present findings revealed that cFLIP was at the highest level in CLs during pregnancy, and this may act as a dominant survival anti-apoptotic factor by inhibiting intracellular apoptosis signal transduction in luteal cells of CLs during pregnancy.

Capacidade reprodutiva dos suínos Mangalica – Qual a realidade?

A história do porco Mangalica remonta à primeira metade do século XIX, no entanto, há informação sobre os seus ascendentes no século XVIII. Este porco tipo “gordura” chegou às suas características típicas no último quarto do século XIX sendo que estas ainda se mantêm até hoje. Dado que os porcos Mangalica estavam praticamente extintos após os anos 50’s do século passado também foi reduzida a informação científica e conhecimento prático sobre a raça. Nesta revisão comparamos em detalhe informação antiga e moderna sobre a reprodução dos suínos Mangalica. Descrições antigas relatavam o primeiro cio das marrãs Mangalica aos 10-11 meses de idade. Efetivamente, as fêmeas Mangalica podem ter cios aos 7-8 meses de idade e, portanto, podem ter o seu primeiro parto com 11-12 meses. Há relatos que várias linhas “mãe” tinham ninhadas grandes (8-9 leitões) no início do século XX, no entanto, por causa de diferentes esquemas de seleção essas linhas desapareceram. Afortunadamente, hoje podemos identificar novamente essas porcas mais prolíficas. Através da comparação do conhecimento antigo e atual da biologia reprodutiva da Mangalica devemos concluir que a incorporação do conhecimento antigo válido tem a mesma importância que os novos dados obtidos com metodologias e instrumentos mais sofisticados. A sua síntese é necessária para a preservação do valor genético original e para a produção orientada para o mercado.

Invited review: reproductive physiology in commercial and premium pig breeds – history of 30-year-long cooperation

Abstract. Cooperation of the Hungarian Research Institute for Animal Breeding and Nutrition (ATK) with the German Leibniz Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN) goes back many decades. In 1988 the two departments of reproductive biology began a joint project concerning on ovulation investigation in Landrace pigs. This joint project laid the foundation for further joint projects and has existed for almost 30 years. Over the years, the main focus has always been on the events of the female reproductive tract in pigs, i.e., follicular growth, ovulation, transport of gametes in the oviduct, fertilization and early embryonic development. Nearly all studies were done under in vivo circumstances and using different clinical and endocrinological methods, enabling us to obtain more profound knowledge of the dynamics of reproductive processes. Even results considered to be basic scientific achievements were available for utilization in the daily practice of porcine reproductive management. Since the end of the 1990s, the common projects have been gradually shifted to the physiology of the Hungarian indigenous pig breed Mangalica. Research partners were convinced that modern utilization of indigenous pig breeds would open new doors for premium pork production. In addition to the Mangalica breed, this principal was broadened to non-European fatty-type native pig breeds as well and resulted in long-term, intercontinental scientific cooperation.

Clinical characteristics and associated factors of Japanese patients with adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction: a multicenter clinicoepidemiological study

Gastroesophageal reflux disease-related diseases, such as Barrett's esophagus and adenocarcinoma of the esophagogastric junction (AEGJ), are believed to occur less frequently in Asia than in Western countries. However, the number of reported cases is increasing, yet little is known regarding the epidemiology of AEGJ in Japan. The primary study aim is to investigate the clinicoepidemiological characteristics of AEGJ. The secondary aim is to identify factors associated with it. In the 6.5 years between January 2008 and June 2014, we reviewed 88,199 esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) reports and associated medical records (Study 1). We conducted a case-control study to identify factors associated with AEGJ (Study 2). Control subjects were randomly selected and age and sex matched from among subjects who underwent EGD during medical evaluations. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using an unconditional logistic regression method. During the study period, 83 patients with AEGJ (72 men and 11 women; mean age 68 years) were diagnosed. Six cases were Siewert type I and 77 were type II. The incidence rate of AEGJ was 0.6-1.7/100,000 person-years. Compared with the 101 control subjects, obesity (body mass index ≧ 25 kg/m2; [OR = 2.82; 95% CI: 1.13-7.01]) was associated with AEGJ. The incidence rate of AEGJ is lower in Japan than in Western countries, but associated factors similar to those in Western patients were detected, including obesity, a hiatal hernia, smoking, and the male sex.

N, N-Dimethylglycine decreases oxidative stress and improves in vitro development of bovine embryos

The antioxidant effect of N, N-dimethylglycine (DMG) on in vitro-produced (IVP) bovine embryos was examined. After in vitro fertilization, presumptive zygotes were cultured with or without 0.1 μM DMG under different oxygen tensions. The percentage of embryos developing to the blastocyst stage was lowest under a 20% oxygen concentration without DMG, and it was significantly increased (P < 0.05) by applying a 5% oxygen concentration. Under the 20% oxygen concentration, supplementation of the medium with DMG significantly improved blastocyst development, which was nearly equal to that achieved under 5% oxygen without DMG. Furthermore, a tendentious increase (P = 0.06) in blastocyst cell numbers was observed when DMG was applied. In the second experiment, addition of H₂O₂ (0.5 mM) to the culture medium significantly (P < 0.01) reduced the percentage of embryos developing to the blastocyst stage. However, DMG supplementation prevented this reduction. In conclusion, DMG enhanced the in vitro development of IVP bovine embryos by acting as an antioxidant.

Tensin2-deficient mice on FVB/N background develop severe glomerular disease

Tensin2 (Tns2) is an essential component for the maintenance of glomerular basement membrane (GBM) structures. Tns2-deficient mice were previously shown to develop mild glomerular injury on a DBA/2 background, but not on a C57BL/6J or a 129/SvJ background, suggesting that glomerular injury by the deletion of Tns2 was strongly dependent on the genetic background. To further understand the mechanisms for the onset and the progression of glomerular injury by the deletion of Tns2, we generated Tns2-deficient mice on an FVB/N (FVB) strain, which is highly sensitive to glomerular disease. Tns2-deficient mice on FVB (FVBGN) developed severe nephrotic syndrome, and female FVBGN mice died within 8 weeks. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that FVBGN mice exhibited severe glomerular defects with mesangial process invasion of glomerular capillary tufts, lamination and thickening of the GBM and subsequent podocyte foot process effacement soon after birth. Aberrant laminin components containing α1, α2 and β1 chains, which are normally expressed in the mesangium, accumulated in the GBM of FVBGN, suggesting that these components originated from mesangial cells that invaded glomerular capillary tufts. Compared to Tns2-deficient mice on the other backgrounds in previous reports, FVBGN mice developed earlier onset of glomerular defects and rapid progression of renal failure. Thus, this study further extended our understanding of the possible genetic background effect on the deterioration of nephrotic syndrome by Tns2 deficiency.

Expression and localization of cFLIP anti-apoptotic protein in the porcine corpus luteum and corpora albicans during the estrous cycle and pregnancy

We determined expression and localization of the anti-apoptotic cellular FLICE inhibitory protein (cFLIP) in the porcine corpora lutea (CL) and corpus albicans (CA) during estrous and pregnancy. The CL and CA were collected at different stages of estrous to determine cFLIP immunolocalization, and mRNA and protein expression. The mRNA expression of the short cFLIP isoform (cFLIPS) was higher at the early and mid CL stages, and lower by the late CL stage (P < 0.01); mRNA expression of the long cFLIP isoform (cFLIPL) was higher at the mid CL stage, and lower at the early and late CL stages (P < 0.01). Levels of cFLIPS and cFLIPL were steady and high during the early and mid CL stages, and had significantly decreased (P < 0.01) by the late stage. The cFLIP protein was highly expressed in the early and mid CL stages of estrous, but weakly ex-pressed in the late stage. Expression of cFLIPS showed no significant difference between preovulatory corpus albicans (CA1) and corpus albicans (CA2) coexistent with the CL from the previous estrus, but cFLIPL mRNA expression was higher during CA1 than CA2. The expression of cFLIPS showed no significant difference between CA1 and CA2, but cFLIPL was not detected. The cFLIP protein was weak-ly expressed in the CA. Expression of cFLIPS and cFLIPL mRNA and proteins was observed in the CL, and the cFLIP protein was highly expressed during pregnancy. We propose that cFLIPS/L acts as a survival factor, and performs an anti-apoptotic function in the porcine CL.

Saving genetic resources of native pigs in Occidental and Oriental countries - practical examples of the characterization and utilization of native pigs in Hungary and Laos

Worldwide, only a few "fatty" pig breeds exist with different and/or regional utilization. Using the Hungarian Mangalica, which almost went extinct in Europe and the Lao Moo Lat pig, which still has a large population in South-East Asia as exemples, we wanted to demonstrate that indigenous (fatty) pig breeds may represent both national value and tremendous economic potential. Since these less prolific and less productive breeds cannot contribute to mass production, new market roles and methods should be established for them in the premium segment of pork trading. Thus their preservation and propagation needs the comprehensive collaboration of commercial, governmental actors and researchers. Briefly summarizing the history, we report the current results of reproductive physiology research. The commercial renaissance of Mangalica pigs is indebted to the enthusiastic efforts of basic scientists, pig breeding experts and dedicated Mangalica producers. Scientific achievements were applied to practical breeding and production of delicious pork and processed products, which ultimately made the economic success in the Mangalica sector possible. Both, research on and utilization of endangered (pig) breeds maintain not only breed diversities, but also may improve the livelihood of farmers worldwide.

Increased collagen III in culled chicken meat after feeding dietary wood charcoal and vinegar contributes to palatability and tenderness

We comprehensively evaluated meat quality in chickens fed a diet consisting of wood charcoal and vinegar (WCV) using food scientific and histological approaches. In culled hens, lipid and fatty acid in Musculus semimembranosus, cooking loss and sensory tests of whole thigh meat, and meat texture of breast meat were observed. In male broilers, cross section of M. semimembranosus was used for observations on muscle area, perimysium, non-collagen total protein and total collagen content, and anti-collagen I and III reactions. In frozen male broilers, conventional morphology of M. semimembranosus as well as chicken anti-collagen III reaction to selected muscles of thigh meat and breast meat were compared between the control and WCV-fed birds. Increased lipid and fatty acids, decreased cooking loss, high score in total evaluation for sensory test of thigh meat, and decreased meat texture values were observed for culled hens fed WCV. The higher values of muscle area, total collagen and collagen III were observed for broilers fed WCV. No perimysium collapse for M. semitendinosus or increased collagen III reactions of M. tensor fasciae latae, the flexor muscle group and M. pectoralis superficialis were observed for frozen muscles in the WCV group. These total results suggest that WCV produces palatable and tender meat by increasing collagen III.

Supplementation of culture medium with L-carnitine improves development and cryotolerance of bovine embryos produced in vitro

High lipid content in embryos is associated with low freezing tolerance. This study assessed the effects of exogenous L-carnitine, an enhancer of lipid metabolism, on the in vitro development and freezing survival of bovine embryos. Also, effects on metabolic activity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis were investigated. Supplementation of embryo culture medium with 1.518 mM or 3.030 mM L-carnitine significantly increased the rates of zygote development to the blastocyst stage and blastocyst cell numbers whereas 6.072 mM of this compound did not improve embryo development. Survival rates after slow freezing of blastocysts were significantly higher when embryos were cultured in the presence of 1.518 mM or 3.030 mM L-carnitine compared with the control. A lower density of lipid droplets was detected in L-carnitine-treated blastocysts compared with the control. L-carnitine significantly reduced ROS levels in 2-cell embryos but did not reduce ROS levels at later stages. The apoptotic cell rate was not different between control and L-carnitine-treated blastocysts. L-carnitine significantly increased ATP levels in 2-cell embryos but not at the 8-cell or blastocyst stages. L-carnitine increased the expression of metabolism-related ATP6 and COX1 genes in blastocysts. In conclusion, L-carnitine supplementation enhanced lipid metabolism in embryos resulting in improved development and cryotolerance of bovine blastocysts produced in vitro.

Increased collagen accumulation in eggshell membrane after feeding with dietary wood charcoal powder and vinegar

Collagen in an eggshell membrane is important for egg preservation, medical burn treatment and manufacturing of cosmetics. Because collagen in the membrane is little, it is a need to improve the accumulation in the membrane to develop these applications. Wood charcoal powder with vinegar (WCV) is a natural substance that improves poultry production. In hen fed with WCV, total collagen in the eggshell membrane increased with an increase in dietary WCV and significantly increased in the 1.0% WCV group (p < 0.05). Scanning and light microscopic images revealed that this group had thicker eggshell membranes and a fine mesh structure composed of finer and more densely distributed fibres than in the control. Eggs from WCV group showed slow Haugh unit decrease during egg storage and the decrease correlated with total collagen in eggshell membrane. In intact chicken, type I and type III collagens were found in different specific locations in the oviduct but not in the membrane. The finding that collagen accumulates in the eggshell membrane under WCV feeding suggests that feeding chicken with WCV will permit long-term storage of eggs in poultry production, and the increased volume of total collagen will facilitate its application in medicine and cosmetics.

Expressions of tumor necrosis factor-α, its receptor I, II and receptor-associated factor 2 in the porcine corpus luteum during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy

We examined the gene and protein levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, its receptors (types I and II, designated TNF-RI and TNF-RII, respectively), TNF receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2) and morphological features in the porcine corpus luteum (CL), on Days 13 and 17 (Day 0 = the last day of estrus) of the estrous cycle or of early pregnancy. Gene expression levels of TNF-α, TNF-RI, TNF-RII and TRAF2 were unaffected by the day or reproductive status. TNF-α concentration was significantly higher in the CL on Day 17 of pregnancy than on Day 13 of pregnancy and on day 17 of the estrous cycle. The TNF-RI protein level was significantly higher in the CL on Days 13 and 17 of pregnancy than those of the estrous cycle, significantly increasing on Day 17 compared with those on Day 13 in pregnancy. In relation to TNF-RII protein levels, although there were no change during pregnancy, there was a tendency (P = 0.0524) to up-regulate as pregnancy proceeded. In estrous cycle, TNF-RII protein levels decreased significantly as luteolysis proceeded. TRAF2 protein level was significantly higher in the CL on Days 13 and 17 of pregnancy than during estrous. There were few apoptotic bodies in the CL between Days 13 and 17 of pregnancy than during esrous. There were few apoptotic bodies in the CL between Days 13 and 17 of pregnancy. The number of apoptotic bodies was much greater than the CL on Day 17 of the estrous than those of pregnancy. Thus, the TNF-α and TNF-RI and TNF-RII pathways including the TRAF2 protein, known to control of cell differentiation, tissue renewal and apoptosis, might participate in maintaining the porcine CL during early pregnancy.

Tenc1-deficient mice develop glomerular disease in a strain-specific manner

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Tenc1 (also known as tensin2) is an integrin-associated focal adhesion molecule that is broadly expressed in mouse tissues including the liver, muscle, heart and kidney. A mouse strain carrying mutated Tenc1, the ICR-derived glomerulonephritis (ICGN) strain, develops severe nephrotic syndrome.

METHODS

To elucidate the function of Tenc1 in the kidney, Tenc1(ICGN) was introduced into 2 genetic backgrounds, i.e. DBA/2J (D2) and C57BL/6J (B6), strains that are respectively susceptible and resistant to chronic kidney disease.

RESULTS

Biochemical and histological analysis revealed that homozygous Tenc1(ICGN) mice develop nephrotic syndrome on the D2 background (D2GN) but not on the B6 background (B6GN). Initially, abnormal assembly and maturation of glomerular basement membrane (GBM) were observed, and subsequently effacement of podocyte foot processes was noted in the kidneys of D2GN but not B6GN mice. These defects are likely to be involved in the integrin signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that Tenc1 contributes to the maintenance of GBM structures and that the genetic background influences the severity of nephrotic syndrome.

Gene expression analysis detected a low expression level of C1s gene in ICR-derived glomerulonephritis (ICGN) mice

BACKGROUND

ICR-derived glomerulonephritis (ICGN) strain is a novel inbred strain of mice with a hereditary nephrotic syndrome. Deletion mutation of tensin 2 (Tns2), a focal adhesion molecule, has been suggested to be responsible for nephrotic syndrome in ICGN mice; however, the existence of other associative factors has been suggested.

METHODS AND RESULTS

To identify additional associative factors and to better understand the onset mechanism of nephrotic syndrome in ICGN mice, we conducted a comprehensive gene expression analysis using DNA microarray. Immune-related pathways were markedly altered in ICGN mice kidney as compared with ICR mice. Furthermore, the gene expression level of complement component 1, s subcomponent (C1s), whose human homologue has been reported to associate with lupus nephritis, was markedly low in ICGN mouse kidney. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction confirmed a low expression level of C1s in ICGN mouse liver where the C1s protein is mainly synthesized. A high serum level of anti-dsDNA antibody and deposits of immune complexes were also detected in ICGN mice by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and immunohistochemical analyses, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the immune system, especially the complement system, is associated with nephrotic syndrome in ICGN mice. We identified a low expression level of C1s gene as an additional associative factor for nephrotic syndrome in ICGN mice. Further studies are needed to elucidate the role of the complement system in the onset of nephrotic syndrome in ICGN mice.

Fertilization ability of porcine oocytes reconstructed from ooplasmic fragments produced and characterized after serial centrifugations

Mitochondria are reported to be critical in in vitro maturation of oocytes and subsequent embryo development after fertilization, but their contribution for fertilization has not been investigated in detail. In the present study, we investigate the contribution of mitochondria to fertilization using reconstructed porcine oocytes by fusion of ooplasmic fragments produced by serial centrifugations (centri-fusion). Firstly, we evaluated the characteristics of ooplasmic fragments. Three types of fragments were obtained by centrifugation of porcine oocytes matured in vitro for 46 h: brownish (B), transparent (T) and large (L) fragments containing both B and T parts in a fragment. The production efficiencies of these types of fragments were 71.7, 91.0 and 17.8 fragments/100 oocytes, respectively. In experiments, L fragments were excluded because they contained both brownish and transparent components that were apparently intermediate between B and T fragments. Observations by confocal microscopy after staining with MitoTracker Red CMXRos® and transmission electron microscopy revealed highly condensed active mitochondria in B fragments in contrast to T fragments that contained only sparse organelles. We reconstructed oocytes by fusion of a karyoplast and two cytoplasts from B and T fragments (B and T oocytes, respectively). The B oocytes showed higher sperm penetration (95.8%) and male pronuclear formation rates (94.2%) by in vitro fertilization than T oocytes (66.7% and 50.0%, respectively). These results suggest that the active mitochondria in oocytes may be related to their ability for fertilization.

Effect of Treadmill Exercise and Hydrogen-rich Water Intake on Serum Oxidative and Anti-oxidative Metabolites in Serum of Thoroughbred Horses

The present study aimed to clarify changes of oxidative stress and antioxidative functions in treadmill-exercised Thoroughbred horses (n=5, 3 to 7 years old), using recently developed techniques for measurement of serum d-ROMs for oxidative stress, and BAP for antioxidative markers. Also, the effect of nasogastric administration of hydrogen-rich water (HW) or placebo water preceding the treadmill exercise on these parameters was examined. Each horse was subjected to a maximum level of treadmill exercise in which the horses were exhausted at an average speed of 13.2 ± 0.84 m/sec. Blood samples were taken 4 times, immediately before the intake of HW or placebo water at 30 min preceding the treadmill exercise, immediately before the exercise (pre-exercise), immediately after the exercise (post-exercise) and at 30 min following the exercise. In all horses, both d-ROMs and BAP values significantly increased at post-exercise. The increase in d-ROMs tended to be lower in the HW trial, as compared to the placebo trial at pre-exercise. The increase in BAP was considerable at approximately 150% of the pre-exercise values in both the HW and placebo treatment trials. The BAP/d-ROMs ratio was significantly elevated at post-exercise in both treatment trials, while a significant elevation was also observed at pre-exercise in the HW trial. BAP, d-ROM, and the BAP/d-ROM ratio tended to decline at 30 min after the exercise, except BAP and BAP/d-ROMs in the placebo trial. These results demonstrate that the marked elevation of oxidative stress and anitioxidative functions occurred simultaneously in the intensively exercised horses, and suggest a possibility that HW has some antioxidative efficacy.

Breed Differences in Dopamine Receptor D4 Gene (DRD4) in Horses

Genetic polymorphisms in genes related to neurotransmitters or hormones affect personality or behavioral traits in many animal species including humans. In domestic animals, the allele frequency of such genes has been reported to be different among breeds and it may account for breed differences in behavior. In this study, we investigated breed differences in horses in the dopamine receptor D4 gene (DRD4), which has been reported to affect horse personality. We collected samples from seven horse breeds including those native to Japan and Korea, and compared the sequence of the DRD4 exon3 region among these breeds. We found that there were two types of polymorphisms (VNTR and SNPs) in the exon3 region, and some of them seemed to be breed-specific. In addition, we found that the allele frequency of G292A, reported to be associated with horse personality, differed greatly between native Japanese horses and Thoroughbred horses. The frequency of the A allele which is associated with low curiosity and high vigilance, was much lower in native Japanese horses (Hokkaido, 0.03; Taishu, 0.08) than in Thoroughbreds (0.62). This difference may account for breed differences in personality or behavioral traits. Further studies of the function of these polymorphisms and their effect on behavior are indicated.

In vivo imaging of hierarchical spatiotemporal activation of caspase-8 during apoptosis

Background

Activation of caspases is crucial for the execution of apoptosis. Although the caspase cascade associated with activation of the initiator caspase-8 (CASP8) has been investigated in molecular and biochemical detail, the dynamics of CASP8 activation are not fully understood.

Methodology/Principal Findings

We have established a biosensor based on fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) for visualizing apoptotic signals associated with CASP8 activation at the single-cell level. Our dual FRET (dual-FRET) system, comprising a triple fusion fluorescent protein, enabled us to simultaneously monitor the activation of CASP8 and its downstream effector, caspase-3 (CASP3) in single live cells. With the dual-FRET-based biosensor, we detected distinct activation patterns of CASP8 and CASP3 in response to various apoptotic stimuli in mammalian cells, resulting in the positive feedback amplification of CASP8 activation. We reproduced these observations by in vitro reconstitution of the cascade, with a recombinant protein mixture that included procaspases. Furthermore, using a plasma membrane-bound FRET-based biosensor, we captured the spatiotemporal dynamics of CASP8 activation by the diffusion process, suggesting the focal activation of CASP8 is sufficient to propagate apoptotic signals through death receptors.

Conclusions

Our new FRET-based system visualized the activation process of both initiator and effector caspases in a single apoptotic cell and also elucidated the necessity of an amplification loop for full activation of CASP8.

Quantification of PrPC in bovine peripheral tissues: Analysis in wild-type and PrPC-deficient cattle

Cellular PrP (PrPC) is necessary for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) infection. The purpose of the present experiment was the quantification of PrPC in peripheral tissues to assess the risk of BSE infection from these tissues. The tissue distribution of PrPC was examined by a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (sELISA) and histochemical analysis. PrPC-deficient cows were used as a negative control. The sELISA revealed that the brain contained the highest PrPC content (10.7 µg/g tissue), while other organs/tissues harbored lower amounts, in decreasing order as follows: longissimus capitis muscle, iliocostalis thoracis muscle, splenius muscle, biceps femoris muscle, triceps brachii muscle, longissimus thoracis muscle, ileum, jejunum, duodenum, colon, cecum, apex linguae, omotransversarius muscle, posterior part of the corpus linguae, anterior part of the corpus linguae and radix linguae (5.2- to 31-fold less PrPC than the brain). In the tissue/organs of PrP-deficient cows, PrPC levels were under the limit of detection. Histochemical analysis showed that PrPC was expressed in nerve cells in intestinal tissues. The presence of PrPC in the bovine tongue, skeletal muscles and intestines raises the possibility of PrPSc accumulation in these tissues, indicating that these organs/tissues may serve as potential sources of BSE infection.

Follicular growth and atresia in mammalian ovaries: regulation by survival and death of granulosa cells

The mammalian ovary is an extremely dynamic organ in which a large majority of follicles are effectively eliminated throughout their reproductive life. Due to the numerous efforts of researchers, mechanisms regulating follicular growth and atresia in mammalian ovaries have been clarified, not only their systemic regulation by hormones (gonadotropins) but also their intraovarian regulation by gonadal steroids, growth factors, cytokines and intracellular proteins. Granulosa cells in particular have been demonstrated to play a major role in deciding the fate of follicles, serving molecules that are essential for follicular growth and maintenance as well as killing themselves by an apoptotic process that results in follicular atresia. In this review, we discuss the factors that govern follicular growth and atresia, with a special focus on their regulation by granulosa cells. First, ovarian folliculogenesis in adult life is outlined. Then, we explain about the regulation of follicular growth and atresia by granulosa cells, in which hormones, growth factors and cytokines, death ligand-receptor system and B cell lymphoma/leukemia 2 (BCL2) family members (mitochondria-mediated apoptosis) are further discussed.

The molecular mechanism of apoptosis upon caspase-8 activation: quantitative experimental validation of a mathematical model

Caspase-8 (CASP8) is a cysteine protease that plays a pivotal role in the extrinsic apoptotic signaling pathway via death receptors. The kinetics, dynamics, and selectivity with which the pathway transmits apoptotic signals to downstream molecules upon CASP8 activation are not fully understood. We have developed a system for using high-sensitivity FRET-based biosensors to monitor the protease activity of CASP8 and its downstream effector, caspase-3, in living single cells. Using this system, we systematically investigated the caspase cascade by regulating the magnitude of extrinsic signals received by the cell. Furthermore, we determined the molar concentration of five caspases and Bid required for hierarchical transmission of apoptotic signals in a HeLa cell. Based on these quantitative experimental data, we validated a mathematical model suitable for estimation of the kinetics and dynamics of caspases, which predicts the minimal concentration of CASP8 required to act as an initiator. Consequently, we found that less than 1% of the total CASP8 proteins are sufficient to set the apoptotic program in motion if activated. Taken together, our findings demonstrate the precise cascade of CASP8-mediated apoptotic signals through the extrinsic pathway.

Efficacy of adding sodium alginate to omeprazole in patients with nonerosive reflux disease: a randomized clinical trial

Nonerosive reflux disease (NERD) is the most common form of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Patients with NERD have a lower response rate to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) than patients with erosive esophagitis when gauged from relief of heartburn. Sodium alginate decreases the acidity of refluxate and protects the esophageal mucosa. However, whether the addition of sodium alginate to PPI therapy can improve NERD symptoms remains unknown. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of adding sodium alginate to basal PPI therapy for NERD. Patients who had experienced heartburn on at least 2 days per week during the 1-month period before entering the study and had no endoscopic mucosal breaks (grade M or N according to Hoshihara's modification of the Los Angeles classification) were randomized to one of two treatments for 4 weeks: omeprazole (20 mg once daily) plus sodium alginate (30 mL four times a day) (group A) or omeprazole (20 mg once daily) alone (group B). Eighty-seven patients were enrolled, and 76 patients were randomly assigned to group A (n = 36) or group B (n = 40). Complete resolution of heartburn for at least 7 consecutive days by the end of treatment was significantly more common in group A (56.7%) than in group B (25.7%). One patient from group A had mild drug-related diarrhea that was not clinically serious. In conclusion, omeprazole combined with sodium alginate was better than omeprazole alone in Japanese patients with NERD.

Therapeutic efficacy of acotiamide in patients with functional dyspepsia based on enhanced postprandial gastric accommodation and emptying: randomized controlled study evaluation by real-time ultrasonography

BACKGROUND

Improvement in subjective symptoms has been reported in functional dyspepsia (FD) patients administered with acotiamide. Improvement was confirmed in meal-related symptoms, such as postprandial fullness, upper abdominal bloating, and early satiety. We examined the mechanism underlying the effects of acotiamide on gastric accommodation reflex (GAR) and gastroduodenal motility in FD patients.

METHODS

Thirty-four FD patients (mean age, 40.4 years) were examined ultrasonographically before and after 14-18 days of acotiamide (100 mg t.i.d.) or placebo administration. To assess GAR, expansion rate in cross-sectional area of the proximal stomach was measured after every 100-mL ingestion, using a straw, of up to 400 mL of a liquid meal (consommé soup, 13.1 kcal; 400 mL) in a supine position. Next, we measured gastric emptying rate (GER), motility index (MI, antral contractions), and reflux index (RI, duodenogastric reflux) to assess gastroduodenal motility. Patients also completed a survey based on the seven-point Likert scale both before and after drug administration.

KEY RESULTS

Of the 37 cases, 19 and 18 were administered with acotiamide and placebo A respectively, significant difference was observed in GAR between the acotiamide and placebo groups (21.7%vs 4.4%) after 400 mL ingestion. GER significantly accelerated after treatment in the acotiamide group (P = 0.012), no significant differences were observed in MI and RI between the two groups. Improvement rates were 35.3 and 11.8% for the acotiamide and placebo groups.

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Acotiamide significantly enhances GAR and GER in FD patients. Acotiamide may have therapeutic potential for FD patients.

Effect of RNA interference of BID and BAX mRNAs on apoptosis in granulosa cell-derived KGN cells

In mitochondrion-dependent type II apoptosis, BH3-interacting domain death agonist (BID) and BCL-2-associated X protein (BAX) promote death ligand and receptor-mediated cell death. In porcine ovaries, the levels of BID and BAX increase in follicular granulosa cells during atresia. In the present study, to confirm the pro-apoptotic activity of BID and BAX in granulosa cells, we examined the effect of RNA interference of BID or BAX on apoptosis using a human ovarian granulosa tumor cell line, KGN. By reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting, expression of BID and BAX was detected in KGN cells. Then, we suppressed BID and BAX mRNA expression in KGN cells using small interfering RNA (siRNA). When BID or BAX was suppressed, a significant decrease in the apoptotic cell rate was noted. In granulosa-derived cells, BID and BAX showed pro-apoptotic activity. These results suggest that BID and BAX act as signal-transducing factors in mitochondrion-dependent type II apoptosis.

Follicular turnover and hormonal association in postpartum goats during early and late lactation

To clarify the effect of lactation period on ovarian follicular activity and associated hormonal levels in goats, six goats were monitored daily by ultrasonographic examination with blood sampling during early (Days 5 to 25; Day 0 was the day of kidding) and late (Days 40 to 60) lactation. While the presence of a corpus luteum of pregnancy retarded follicular growth in the ipsilateral ovary until Days 11-13 postpartum, the total follicular number (TFN) and area (TFA) increased during late lactation due to the significant increase in the number of medium- and large-sized follicles and decrease in the number of small follicles. Four goats showed a similar pattern of follicular development during the period studied characterized by the emergence of five and six waves during the early and late lactation, respectively. The largest follicle diameter of the first three waves monitored during early lactation was significantly smaller as compared with the diameter of those existing during late lactation. TFN showed a positive correlation with FSH but showed a negative correlation with immunoreactive (ir-) inhibin and estradiol during the postpartum period. TFA was positively correlated with ir-inhibin, estradiol and PRL and negatively correlated with FSH during the monitored periods. The plasma levels of ir-inhibin and progesterone were significantly higher during late lactation compared with the levels recorded during early lactation. Ir-inhibin levels showed a significant positive correlation with LH and estradiol during early and late lactation but showed a negative correlation with FSH during the whole lactation period. LH was positively correlated with estradiol and PRL during early and late lactation, respectively. These results suggest that the lactation period has a detrimental effect on ovarian activity during the early postpartum period in goats.

Native pig (Moo Lat) breeds in Lao PDR (Short Communication)

Abstract. Pig production continues to be an important livelihood activity in the Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR) which base on traditional methods. However, it is increasingly affected by social and market pressures. More than 80 % of pig herds are native breeds and belong to smallholders with combined keeping systems. Based on a national field survey, the native pigs have been characterized and classified in four phenotypes. The native pig types and their local distribution are described. Most of them have short ears, black colour and potbelly. Their production performance, i.e. growth rates and daily weight gain is lower and the carcass fat considerably higher than that of exotic (i.e. in Lao terms »modern, intensive«) breeds. However, they require lower inputs and have excellent adaptation traits.

Immunochemical characteristics of a novel cell death receptor and a decoy receptor on granulosa cells of porcine ovarian follicles

Previously, we prepared an IgM monoclonal antibody(PFG-1) which specifically recognized a cell-membraneglycoprotein (PFG-1 antigen; 55 kD, pI 5.9),immunohistochemically reacted with granulosa cells ofhealthy follicles but not of atretic follicles, andinduced granulosa cell apoptosis. In the presentstudy, an IgM monoclonal antibody (PFG-3) capable ofinducing granulosa cell apoptosis and an IgGmonoclonal antibody (PFG-4) not capable of inducingapoptosis were produced against granulosa cellsprepared from healthy antral follicles of porcineovaries. Two-dimensional Western blotting analysisrevealed that PFG-3 specifically recognized twocell-membrane proteins (named PFG-3-1 andPFG-3-2/PFG-1 antigens; 42 kD, pI 5.2 and 55 kD, pI5.9, respectively) of healthy granulosa cells, andthat PFG-4 recognized the same two cell-membraneproteins. In atretic granulosa cells, PFG-3-2/PFG-1antigen disappeared. Immunochemical reactions of theseantibodies were only detected in follicular granulosacells but not any other ovarian tissues or organs.PFG-3 and PFG-4 immunohistochemically reacted withgranulosa cells of healthy and atretic follicles. Whenthe isolated granulosa cells prepared from healthyfollicles were cultured in medium containing PFG-3,the cells underwent apoptosis, and co-incubation withPFG-4 inhibited PFG-3-inducible apoptosis. Theseobservations suggested that PFG-3-2/PFG-1 antigen isa novel cell death receptor which is different fromthe apoptosis-mediating receptors (Fas/Apo-1/CD95 orTNF receptor), and that PFG-3-1 antigen may act as adecoy receptor and inhibit apoptotic signal transmission.

Effect of linoleic acid albumin in a dilution solution and long-term equilibration for freezing of bovine spermatozoa with poor freezability

Despite normal eucrasia, mating desire and semen quality, sire bulls sometimes have spermatozoa with poor freezing tolerance. This study assessed effects of the addition of linoleic acid albumin (LAA) and long-term (LT) equilibrium to frozen semen on their sperm freezing tolerance. Immediately after collection using an artificial vagina and a breeding mount, semen was diluted with yolk citrate buffer; then, it was cooled slowly to 4°C during more than 5 h. Equilibrium treatment at 4°C was applied using the same extender supplemented with glycerol. Semen of bull A, with low sperm freezing tolerance, was treated with 1 mg/ml of LAA added to the first extender. The equilibrium treatment at 4°C was prolonged to 30 h. Significantly higher motility rates were obtained for the LT + LAA-treated sperm before and after freezing-thawing. However, for semen of bulls B and C with normal sperm freezing tolerance, the LT + LAA treatment barely exhibited a small effect on the motility rate. Almost no difference was found among bulls A, B and C in the motility rates of LT + LAA-treated sperm after freezing-thawing. No difference of fertility was apparent on LT + LAA-treated frozen sperm in comparison with normal sperm in embryonic collection and in vitro fertilization. It was not an aberration of fertility in vivo or in vitro. In addition, the conception rate of artificial insemination did not have a difference, and a normal calf was obtained. Results show that addition of LAA to an extender for frozen bovine spermatozoa and 30 h of low-temperature equilibrium might improve the motility of freezing-thawing spermatozoa with poor freezability. Sperm exhibited normal fertilization capability and ontogenic capability.

Bid and Bax are involved in granulosa cell apoptosis during follicular atresia in porcine ovaries

More than 99% of follicles undergo "atresia" during follicular development and growth. Follicular atresia is predominantly regulated by granulosa cell apoptosis. However, the intracellular signaling pathway of apoptosis in granulosa cells has not been revealed. In the present study, we examined changes in the expression of BH3-interacting domain death agonist (Bid) and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), which are considered to promote the cell death ligand/receptor-mediated process in mitochondrion-dependent type II apoptosis, in porcine granulosa cells during atresia. Levels of mRNA and protein of Bid and Bax were determined by the reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and Western blotting techniques, respectively. Levels of Bid and Bax mRNA and protein were markedly increased in granulosa cells of early atretic follicles compared with those of healthy follicles. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemical staining revealed that mRNA and protein of Bid and Bax were present in the granulosa cells, though only traces were found in healthy follicles; however, strong staining was noted in atretic follicles. These results indicate that Bid and Bax appear to be signal transduction factors in granulosa cells during follicular atresia and appear to play proapoptotic roles and confirm that the porcine granulosa cell is a mitochondrion-dependent type II apoptotic cell.

Impaired gastric response to modified sham feeding in patients with postprandial distress syndrome

BACKGROUND

Impaired vagal function has been reported to be important in some patients with functional dyspepsia (FD). However, the pathophysiologic mechanisms influencing the cephalic phase of vagal activity in FD are incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the gastric response to modified sham feeding (MSF) on ultrasound and cardiovascular autonomic function in FD patients.

METHODS

Nineteen patients with postprandial distress syndrome (PDS, 11 men and eight women; mean age: 48.2 years) and 26 healthy subjects (HS, 13 men and 13 women; mean age: 45.0 years) were studied prospectively. Firstly, cardiovascular autonomic function was assessed by spectral analysis of RR interval variability. Antral contraction was then evaluated by ultrasonography after MSF was performed to stimulate the cephalic phase of vagal activity.

KEY RESULTS

Spectral analysis of RR interval variability showed that the high-frequency component was significantly smaller in the patients than in the HS (P<0.01). The frequency of antral contraction in response to MSF over 15 min was also significantly lower in the PDS patients than in the HS. The 15-min integrated antral contractile response (area under the contraction vs time curve) was significantly smaller in the PDS patients than in the HS (P<0.01). Univariate analysis revealed a modest correlation between the high-frequency component of RR interval variability and the area under the contraction vs time curve (n=46, r=0.49, P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Autonomic abnormalities affecting the cephalic phase of vagal activity may be important in the pathogenesis of FD.

Randomised clinical trial: efficacy of the addition of a prokinetic, mosapride citrate, to omeprazole in the treatment of patients with non-erosive reflux disease - a double-blind, placebo-controlled study

BACKGROUND

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are less effective in non-erosive reflux disease (NERD) patients than in reflux oesophagitis patients. Whether the addition of prokinetics to PPIs improves NERD patients' symptoms remains unknown.

AIM

To evaluate the efficacy of mosapride in NERD patients when used with PPI.

METHODS

A total of 200 NERD patients were randomised to one of two arms: omeprazole (10 mg once daily) plus mosapride citrate (5 mg three times a day) (treatment arm) and omeprazole plus placebo (placebo arm). The primary endpoint was the rate of responders [visual analogue scale (VAS) was zero or <1 cm] after 4 weeks of treatment. The secondary endpoints were changes in the VAS score and the safety profile.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the rates of responders in both arms in intent-to-treat (ITT) and per-protocol (PP) analysis. The change in the VAS score in treatment arm was significantly better than placebo arm in PP analysis (-4.0 ± 0.2 and -3.3 ± 0.2, mean ± S.E.M.) (N.S. in ITT analysis). The rate of adverse events was similar in both groups.

CONCLUSION

The addition of mosapride to omeprazole was not more effective than omeprazole alone.

Effects of estrogen on growth hormone pulsatility in peripheral blood and neuropeptide profiles in the cerebrospinal fluid of goats

We previously reported that growth hormone (GH) pulses were negatively associated with neuropeptide Y (NPY) profiles in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of the third ventricle of Shiba goats. In addition, while most GH pulses were coincident with GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) pulses, there was no correlation between GH and somatostatin (SRIF) levels. The present study was performed to elucidate the relationship between GH pulses and these neuropeptide levels in CSF when estradiol (1.0 mg/head) was subcutaneously administered to ovariectomized goats. CSF and plasma samples were collected every 15 min for 18 h (from 6 h before to 12 h after injection). GH levels in peripheral blood and GHRH, SRIF and NPY levels in CSF were measured by radioimmunoassay. Pulse/trough characteristics and correlations were assessed by the ULTRA algorithm and cross-correlation analysis. Before estradiol was injected, significant coincidence was found between GHRH pulses and GH pulses, and negative coincidence was found between NPY troughs and GH pulses. Six to 12 h after estradiol injection, the amplitude and area under the curve (AUC) of the GH pulses were markedly increased. The duration and AUC of the GHRH pulses in the CSF were also increased, and stronger synchrony of GHRH with GH was observed. In contrast, the baseline of NPY was significantly decreased, and the negative correlation between the GH pulses and NPY troughs disappeared. The parameters of SRIF troughs were not clearly changed. These observations suggest that estrogen enhances the pattern of secretion of GH in the goat via enhancement of GHRH pulses and decrease of NPY levels.

The effects of methylnaltrexone alone and in combination with acutely administered codeine on gastrointestinal and colonic transit in health

BACKGROUND

The short-term effects of methylnaltrexone (MNTX), a peripherally acting mu-opioid receptor antagonist, on gastrointestinal and colonic transit remain unclear.

AIM

To compare the effects of placebo, codeine, subcutaneous (s.c.) MNTX and codeine with s.c. MNTX on gastrointestinal and colonic transit of solids in healthy humans.

METHODS

In a randomized, parallel-group, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of 48 healthy volunteers, effects of 6 consecutive days of placebo [s.c. and p.o. (orally), n = 8], codeine (p.o. 30 mg q.d.s., n = 8), MNTX (s.c. 0.30 mg/kg, n = 16) and combined MNTX and codeine (same doses and routes, n = 16) on gastrointestinal and colonic transit were assessed. A validated scintigraphic method was used to measure transit during the last 48 h of treatment. Bowel function was estimated during treatment as well as 1 week preceding treatment using standard diaries. Analysis of covariance was used to assess treatment effects.

RESULTS

Codeine delayed colonic transit [geometric centre at 24 h (P = 0.04) and ascending colon t(1/2) (P = 0.02)] and reduced stool frequency (P = 0.002), but had no effect on stool form. MNTX did not affect transit, stool frequency or stool form, either alone or with codeine (P > 0.3). No drug interaction effects were detected (P > 0.15).

CONCLUSION

Methylnaltrexone does not alter gastrointestinal or colonic transit and does not reverse acute codeine-associated delayed gut transit in health.

Negative correlation between neuropeptide Y profile in the cerebrospinal fluid and growth hormone pulses in the peripheral circulation in goats

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Growth hormone (GH) is secreted in pulsatile fashion, but the involvement of neuropeptides in the generation of GH pulses is not fully understood. The present study was conducted to elucidate the relationship between GH pulses and neuropeptide levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of the third ventricle in ovariectomized goats.

METHODS

CSF and plasma samples were collected every 15 min. Levels of plasma GH and profiles of GH-releasing hormone (GHRH), somatostatin (SRIH) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) in the CSF were measured by radioimmunoassay. Pulse/trough characteristics and correlations were assessed by the ULTRA algorithm, cross-correlation analysis and approximate entropy test.

RESULTS

The periodicity of GH pulses was 2.20 h. Although most GH pulses were associated with GHRH peaks, there was no correlation between GH and GHRH or GH and SRIH. NPY levels in the CSF fluctuated episodically at 2.03-hour intervals. GH pulse peaks occurred 0-30 min after NPY troughs, and there was a significant negative cross-correlation and negative synchronicity between GH and NPY profiles. In addition, intracerobroventricular infusion of NPY suppressed GH secretagogue (KP102)-induced GH release.

CONCLUSION

The periodic decrease in NPY may be involved in the generation of GH pulsatility in goats.

Effects of bisacodyl on ascending colon emptying and overall colonic transit in healthy volunteers

BACKGROUND

The mechanism of action of bisacodyl in the unprepared human colon remains unclear.

AIM

To evaluate the effect of oral bisacodyl on the overall and regional colonic transit in humans.

METHODS

In a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of 25 healthy participants, effects of oral bisacodyl (5 mg p.o. per day) and placebo on colonic transit were compared. A validated scintigraphy method was used to measure colonic transit. The primary transit endpoints, ascending colon emptying t(1/2) and geometric centre of colon isotope at 24 h (overall transit), were compared (Wilcoxon rank sum test).

RESULTS

There were significant treatment effects on ascending colon t(1/2), with the bisacodyl group demonstrating accelerated emptying [median 6.5 h, interquartile range 5.0-8.0 h] relative to the placebo group [11.0 h (7.0-17.1); P = 0.03]. Numerical differences in colonic geometric centre 24 h [bisacodyl median 3.0 (2.2-3.8), placebo 4.0 (3.1-4.6)] were not significant (P = 0.19). There were no significant differences observed in geometric centre 4 h.

CONCLUSION

Oral 5 mg bisacodyl accelerates ascending colon in the unprepared colon in healthy adults; this action may contribute to the drug's efficacy in constipation.

Expression of macrophage metalloelastase (MMP-12) in podocytes of hereditary nephrotic mice (ICGN strain)

The Institute for Cancer Research (ICR)-derived glomerulonephritis (ICGN) mouse is a good model for renal fibrosis. In the glomeruli and tubulointerstitium of ICGN mouse kidneys, the components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulated, and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) participated in this process. To clarify the mechanism of renal fibrosis, we investigated the expression and localization of macrophage metalloelastase (MMP-12), whose functions in kidney diseases are not fully understood, and its regulatory molecules, monocyte chemoattractive protein-1 (MCP-1) and CC chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2), in the kidneys of ICGN mice by RT-PCR, Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining, respectively. Extensive expression of MMP-12 mRNA and its protein was noted in ICGN mice with progressed nephrotic syndrome. The increase in MMP-12 expression occurred predominantly in podocytes. Furthermore, MCP-1 and CCR2 were also increased in podocytes of the ICGN strain. These results suggest that the expression of MMP-12 is involved in the progression of nephrotic syndrome in ICGN mice.

Incorporation of beta-amyloid protein through the bovine ileal epithelium before and after weaning: model for orally transmitted amyloidoses

To determine the mechanism of bovine intestinal incorporation of the pathogen, and the pathogenesis of prion protein in the early stage, cows suckling and weaning were orally given a fusion protein of Abeta-EGFP. Abeta-EGFP was incorporated through the villous columnar epithelial cells and accumulated in crypt patches in the ileum of suckling cows. The sites of the uptake and accumulation of Abeta-EGFP are very close to the peripheral nervous system; however, such uptake of Abeta-EGFP was not observed in 6-month-old post-weaning cows. The present study, therefore, suggests that the weaning period is very important for the risk of transmission.

Ratio of peripheral nervous tissues in tongues, skeletal muscles and intestines in cows

It is suggested that pathogenic prion protein (PrP(sc) may accumulate in peripheral nervous tissues in addition to the specified-risk materials. To assess the risk of PrP(sc) accumulation in peripheral tissues, the present study was designed to study the ratio of peripheral nervous tissues in tongues, skeletal muscles and intestines in 2-week- and 59-month-old cows. The nervous tissues could be detected by immunohistochemistry using antibody Neurofilament 150. After immunostaining with Neurofilament 150, the photographs taken from each section were applied for Scion Image software. Then, the ratio of nervous tissues in tongues, skeletal muscles and intestines were calculated. The highest ratio of peripheral nervous tissues was observed in intestines, the second highest ratio was found in tongues, and the lowest ratio was recognized in skeletal muscles in both 2-week- and 59-month-old cows. The ratio of nervous tissues in intestines was approximately 2.5 fold and 10 fold, compared to that in skeletal muscles in 2-week- and 59-month-old cows, respectively. These results suggest that intestines and tongues may have a higher risk of PrP(sc) accumulation, compared to skeletal muscles.

Physiological roles of inhibin in regulation of FSH secretion and follicular development during early pregnancy in goats

The aim of the current study was to clarify the physiological role of inhibin in controlling FSH secretion and follicular development during the early pregnancy in goats. Eight goats investigated sonographically on Days 19-21 (Day 0=day of mating) for pregnancy were assigned into control (n=3) and treated (n=5) groups. The ovaries of all animals were daily scanned with ultrasound for follicles 2mm or more in diameter from 1 day before to 5 days after treatment. On Day 25 postbreeding; animals received either 10 ml, of normal goat serum or antiserum against [Tyr (30)]-inhibin alpha (1-30). Jugular blood samples were collected every 6 h starting 24 h before and until 120 h after treatment. The plasma concentration of FSH increased at 6 h and remained at significantly high levels until 120 h in treated vs. control group. The plasma concentrations of estradiol showed a marked increased at 66 h, with peak levels at 120 h after treatment of antiserum. The basal concentrations of LH and the pattern of plasma concentrations of progesterone were not significantly different between the two groups. The number of medium size (3.5-5.0 mm) follicles increased considerably from Day 2, whereas small (3.5 mm or less) and large (5 mm or more) follicles increased noticeably from Day 3, as compared with pre-treatment and controls. These results clearly indicated that inhibin is a key hormone in regulation of follicular development through regulation of endogenous FSH secretion during early pregnancy in goats.

Molecular cloning of a porcine (Sus scrofa) apoptosis inhibitory ligand, netrin-1, and its receptor, p53RDL1

The apoptosis inhibitory ligand (Netrin-1) and its receptor (p53-regulated receptor for death and life: p53RDL1) play an important role in the regulation of selective apoptosis. When Netrin-1 binds to p53RDL1, p53-dependent apoptosis is inhibited. We identified porcine (Sus scrofa) cDNAs encoding Netrin-1 [pNetrin-1; 1,803 base pairs (bp) and 600 amino acids (aa)] and p53RDL1 (pp53RDL1; 2,838 bp and 945 aa). Porcine p53RDL1 (pp53RDL1) contains a death domain (DD), a tandem specific amino acid region, in its C-terminal, suggesting that it mediates death signaling by binding with other pro-apoptotic factors via the DD. Porcine Netrin-1 (pNetrin-1), pp53RDL1 and the DD in pp53RDL1 showed high levels of identity in aa sequence with human and murine Netrin-1 (98 and 97%, respectively), p53RDL1 (94 and 91%, respectively) and the DD in p53RDL1 (96 and 95%, respectively). Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) revealed that the levels of pNetrin-1 and pp53RDL1 mRNAs were moderate in granulosa cells compared with their expression in other tissues and that their levels during follicular atresia were stable. The Netrin-1 and p53RDL1 system may regulate the induction of apoptosis in porcine granulosa cells.

Characterization of autonomic dysfunction in patients with irritable bowel syndrome using fingertip blood flow

Fingertip blood flow (FTBF) as measured by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) measurement is considered an indicator of sympathetic nerve function. We evaluated autonomic function in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by assessing FTBF with both LDF and continuous-wave (cw) Doppler sonography. Firstly, the two methods were compared in 40 healthy volunteers. Next, 59 patients with IBS as well as 118 healthy volunteer controls were studied. In the supine position, FTBF in the right index finger was measured with cw Doppler sonography, whereas FTBF in the left index finger was assessed with LDF. After baseline measurement for at least 5 min, the volunteers received sympathetic stimulation from cold stress applied without notification in the form of an icebag (0 degrees C) upon the left forearm for 1 min. The new cw Doppler sonography method can be used in place of the old LDF method for clinical purposes. FTBF velocity before stimulation (V(pre)) was significantly lower in the IBS group than that in the healthy volunteers (P < 0.01). In addition, the time required for FTBF to return to V(pre) after stimulation was significantly longer in the IBS group than that in the control group. (P = 0.02). Thus, measurement of FTBF with cw Doppler sonography can be useful in the assessment of sympathetic nerve function. The IBS patients showed an abnormal FTBF response suggesting the presence of excess sympathetic activity.