1
|
Lai SC, Loh EW, Chiou DI, Hong CT. Efficacy and safety of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents on corneal neovascularization: A meta-analysis. World J Clin Cases 2023; 11:7337-7349. [PMID: 37969435 PMCID: PMC10643059 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i30.7337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Corneal neovascularization (CoNV) is the second major cause of blindness. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors, e.g., bevacizumab, have been used to prevent CoNV. AIM We conducted an updated systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials to examine the efficacy and safety of anti-VEGF in CoNV. METHODS A literature search was conducted using three electronic databases. Mean difference (MD), standard mean difference (SMD), and relative risk (RR) are used to estimate the effect size. RESULTS Nine randomized controlled and three non-randomized trials were obtained. The pooled results demonstrated a significant reduction of CoNV area/Length (SMD = -1.17, 95%CI: -1.58 to -0.75), best corrected visual acuity (MD = -0.54, 95%CI: -0.91 to -0.17), and graft rejection (RR = 0.44, 95%CI: 0.24 to 0.8) and failure (RR = 0.39, 95%CI: 0.19 to 0.78) rates in the anti-VEGF group than the placebo group. A non-significant reduction of the epithelial defect was also observed in the bevacizumab group compared with the placebo (RR = 0.56, 95%CI: 0.30 to 1.06). Compared with a placebo, the unsynthesizable trials also support that bevacizumab improves visual acuity, CoNV, graft rejection, and failure rates. Trials reporting other comparisons revealed the superiority of combined remedy with bevacizumab compared to other treatments in reducing CoNV. CONCLUSION Anti-VEGF agents, mainly bevacizumab, are an effective and safe treatment for CoNV of all causes and prevent corneal graft rejection and failure in corneal transplantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Chung Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
| | - El-Wui Loh
- Center for Evidence-Based Health Care, Department of Medical Research, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Cochrane Taiwan, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 110, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Imaging, Taipei Medical University Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
| | - Du-I Chiou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Tai Hong
- Department of Neurology, Taipei Medical University-Shuang Ho Hospital, New Taipei 23561, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ko YT, Wu YM, Wu HL, Lai SC, Dai YX, Chen TJ, Cherng YG, Tai YH, Kao CY. Inflammatory bowel disease and the associated risk of dry eye and ocular surface injury: a nationwide matched cohort study. BMC Ophthalmol 2023; 23:415. [PMID: 37833664 PMCID: PMC10576268 DOI: 10.1186/s12886-023-03165-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with lacrimal gland dysfunction and ocular inflammation. The objective of this research was to elucidate the temporal relationships between IBD, dry eye disease (DED), and corneal surface damage. METHODS In a matched nationwide cohort study, we evaluated the risk of DED and corneal surface damage associated with IBD. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were implemented to estimate the risk of ocular complications. RESULTS A total of 54,293 matched pairs were included for analyses. The median follow-up time was 8.3 years (interquartile range: 5.5 - 10.5). The period incidence of DED was 8.18 and 5.42 per 1000 person-years in the IBD and non-IBD groups, respectively. After adjusting for confounders, statistically significant associations were found between IBD and DED [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR): 1.43, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.35 - 1.51, p < 0.0001], Sjögren's syndrome-related (aHR: 1.67, 95% CI:1.46 - 1.90, p < 0.0001) and non-Sjögren's syndrome-related subtypes (aHR: 1.38, 95% CI: 1.30 - 1.46, p < 0.0001). Furthermore, increased risks of corneal surface damage (aHR: 1.13, 95% CI: 1.03 - 1.24, p = 0.0094) among the patients with IBD were observed when compared with the controls. Other independent factors associated with corneal surface damage were age (aHR: 1.003), sex (male vs. female, aHR: 0.85), and monthly insurance premium (501-800 vs. 0-500 U.S. dollars, aHR: 1.45; ≥ 801 vs. 0-500 U.S. dollars, aHR: 1.32). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggested that IBD was an independent risk factor for DED and ocular surface damage. Clinical strategies are needed to prevent visual impairment or losses in these susceptible patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ting Ko
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ming Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Ling Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital 11217, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, 11221, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chung Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Xiu Dai
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, 11221, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan
| | - Tzeng-Ji Chen
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei, 11221, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, 11217, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Hsinchu Branch, Hsinchu, 31064, Taiwan
| | - Yih-Giun Cherng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hsuan Tai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan.
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, 11031, Taiwan.
| | - Chia-Yu Kao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, 23561, Taiwan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lai EW, Tai YH, Wu HL, Dai YX, Chen TJ, Cherng YG, Lai SC. The Association between Autoimmune Thyroid Disease and Ocular Surface Damage: A Retrospective Population-Based Cohort Study. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12093203. [PMID: 37176642 PMCID: PMC10179488 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12093203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune thyroid diseases (ATDs) are potentially connected to lacrimal gland dysfunction and ocular surface disruption. This study aimed to evaluate the relationships between ATD, dry eye disease (DED), and corneal surface damage. In a matched nationwide cohort study, we used Taiwan's National Health Insurance research database to compare the incidences of DED and corneal surface damage between subjects with and without ATD. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the ophthalmological outcomes. A total of 50,251 matched pairs with 748,961 person-years of follow-up were included for analysis. The incidence of DED was 16.37 and 8.36 per 1000 person-years in the ATD and non-ATD groups, respectively. ATDs were significantly associated with increased DED (aHR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.73-1.89, p < 0.0001). This association was generally consistent across the subgroups of age, sex, different comorbidity levels, and use of systemic corticosteroids or not. Furthermore, patients with ATD had a higher risk of corneal surface damage compared with non-ATD subjects (aHR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.19-1.44, p < 0.0001), including recurrent corneal erosions (aHR: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.66-2.41, p < 0.0001) and corneal scars (aHR: 1.26, 95% CI: 1.01-1.59, p = 0.0432). Other independent factors for corneal surface damage were age, sex, diabetes mellitus, Charlson Comorbidity Index scores, and use of systemic corticosteroids. Our results suggested that ATDs were associated with higher risks of DED and corneal surface damage. Considering the high prevalence of ATD, prophylactic and therapeutic strategies should be further developed to prevent irreversible vision loss in this susceptible population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric W Lai
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Ying-Hsuan Tai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Ling Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Xiu Dai
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Department of Dermatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
| | - Tzeng-Ji Chen
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Hsinchu Branch, Hsinchu 31064, Taiwan
| | - Yih-Giun Cherng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chung Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tseng CH, Tai YH, Hong CT, Dai YX, Chen TJ, Cherng YG, Lai SC. Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Risk of Dry Eye Disease and Corneal Surface Damage: A Population-Based Cohort Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:3776. [PMID: 36900786 PMCID: PMC10001508 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20053776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) potentially involves multiple parts of the ocular system, including the lacrimal glands and the cornea. The present study sought to assess the risk of aqueous-deficient dry eye disease (DED) and corneal surface damage in patients with SLE. We conducted a population-based cohort study using Taiwan's National Health Insurance research database to compare the risks of DED and corneal surface damage between subjects with and without SLE. Proportional hazard regression analyses were used to calculate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the study outcomes. The propensity score matching procedure generated 5083 matched pairs with 78,817 person-years of follow-up for analyses. The incidence of DED was 31.90 and 7.66 per 1000 person-years in patients with and without SLE, respectively. After adjusting for covariates, SLE was significantly associated with DED (aHR: 3.30, 95% CI: 2.88-3.78, p < 0.0001) and secondary Sjögren's syndrome (aHR: 9.03, 95% CI: 6.86-11.88, p < 0.0001). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that the increased risk of DED was augmented among patients with age < 65 years and female sex. In addition, patients with SLE had a higher risk of corneal surface damage (aHR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.35-2.41, p < 0.0001) compared to control subjects, including recurrent corneal erosion (aHR: 2.98, 95% CI: 1.63-5.46, p = 0.0004) and corneal scar (aHR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.08-4.61, p = 0.0302). In this 12-year nationwide cohort study, we found that SLE was associated with increased risks of DED and corneal surface damage. Regular ophthalmology surveillance should be considered to prevent sight-threatening sequelae among patients with SLE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ching-Han Tseng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hsuan Tai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Tai Hong
- Department of Neurology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Xiu Dai
- Department of Dermatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Tzeng-Ji Chen
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Hsinchu Branch, Hsinchu 31064, Taiwan
| | - Yih-Giun Cherng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chung Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lai SC, Wang CW, Wu YM, Dai YX, Chen TJ, Wu HL, Cherng YG, Tai YH. Rheumatoid Arthritis Associated with Dry Eye Disease and Corneal Surface Damage: A Nationwide Matched Cohort Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:1584. [PMID: 36674338 PMCID: PMC9861823 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis is potentially connected to ocular disorders, such as corneal inflammation and lacrimal gland destruction. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of dry eye disease (DED) and corneal surface damage among patients with rheumatoid arthritis. In a nationwide cohort study, we utilized Taiwan’s National Health Insurance research database and conducted propensity score matching to compare the risks of DED and corneal surface damage between patients with and without rheumatoid arthritis. Proportional hazards regression analyses were used to calculate the adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for the outcomes of interest. The matching procedure generated 33,398 matched pairs with 501,377 person-years of follow-up for analyses. The incidence of DED was 23.14 and 10.25 per 1000 person-years in patients with and without rheumatoid arthritis, respectively. After adjusting for covariates, rheumatoid arthritis was significantly associated with DED (aHR: 2.03, 95% CI: 1.93−2.13, p < 0.0001). The association was generally consistent across the subgroups of age, sex, use of systemic corticosteroids, and different comorbidity levels. In addition, patients with rheumatoid arthritis had a higher risk of corneal surface damage (aHR: 1.36, 95% CI: 1.21−1.51, p < 0.0001) compared to control subjects. Other independent factors for corneal surface damage were age and sleeping disorders. Rheumatoid arthritis was associated with an increased risk of DED and corneal surface damage. Ophthalmological surveillance is required to prevent vision-threatening complications in this susceptible population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Chung Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Wun Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ming Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Xiu Dai
- Department of Dermatology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
| | - Tzeng-Ji Chen
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
- Department of Family Medicine, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Hsinchu Branch, Hsinchu 31064, Taiwan
| | - Hsiang-Ling Wu
- School of Medicine, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Taipei 11221, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
| | - Yih-Giun Cherng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Hsuan Tai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City 23561, Taiwan
- Department of Anesthesiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hsu MH, Hsu CA, Lai SC, Yen JC. Gout as a Risk Factor for Age-Related Macular Degeneration in Taiwanese Adults-A Population-Based Study in Taiwan. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:10142. [PMID: 36011777 PMCID: PMC9408113 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191610142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 08/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between gout and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) was suggested in previous literature but has yet to be accepted fully among physicians. This study aimed to explore the effect of gout on the development of age-related macular degeneration in Taiwan. A retrospective cohort study was conducted using Taiwan's National Health Insurance Database that includes a 2-million-persons dataset. The crude hazard ratio, Kaplan-Meier plot, and separate cox proportional hazard ratio were utilized to demonstrate the effect of gout on the development of age-related macular degeneration. The crude hazard ratio for gout patients developing AMD was 1.55 and the adjusted hazard ratio 1.20. In conclusion, gout is a risk factor for developing AMD, and achieving good disease management is therefore essential for preventing AMD from occurring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min-Huei Hsu
- Graduate Institute of Data Science, College of Management, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11042, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 23561, Taiwan
| | - Chia-An Hsu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei 11217, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Chung Lai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 23561, Taiwan
| | - Ju-Chuan Yen
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Informatics, College of Medical Science and Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11042, Taiwan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ren-Ai Branch, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei 10341, Taiwan
- Department of Education and Research, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei 10341, Taiwan
- University of Taipei, Taipei 10048, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Huang YL, Ju F, Lai SC, Chen ZC, Chen XY, Zhou LH, Fu MX. Effects of negative pressure wound therapy associated with local insulin injection on TGF-β1 expression in diabetic foot wounds. J BIOL REG HOMEOS AG 2020; 34:559-564. [PMID: 32506883 DOI: 10.23812/20-29-l-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Y L Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou City, Hainan Province, China
| | - F Ju
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou City, Hainan Province, China
| | - S C Lai
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou City, Hainan Province, China
| | - Z C Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou City, Hainan Province, China
| | - X Y Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou City, Hainan Province, China
| | - L H Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou City, Hainan Province, China
| | - M X Fu
- Department of Endocrinology, Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical College, Haikou City, Hainan Province, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sit NW, Chan YS, Lai SC, Lim LN, Looi GT, Tay PL, Tee YT, Woon YY, Khoo KS, Ong HC. In vitro antidermatophytic activity and cytotoxicity of extracts derived from medicinal plants and marine algae. J Mycol Med 2018; 28:561-567. [PMID: 30060991 DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study was conducted to evaluate the antidermatophytic activity of 48 extracts obtained from medicinal plants (Cibotium barometz, Melastoma malabathricum, Meuhlenbeckia platyclada, Rhapis excelsa, Syzygium myrtifolium, Vernonia amygdalina) and marine algae (Caulerpa sertularioides, Kappaphycus alvarezii) against Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton interdigitale (ATCC reference strains), and the cytotoxicity using African monkey kidney epithelial (Vero) cells. Active plant extracts were screened for the presence of phytochemicals and tested against clinical isolates of Trichophyton tonsurans. METHODS Six different extracts (hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol, methanol and water) were obtained from each plant or algae sample using sequential solvent extraction. The antidermatophytic activity for the extracts was assessed using a colourimetric broth microdilution method. The viability of Vero cells was measured by Neutral Red uptake assay. RESULTS All the extracts (except the water extracts of V. amygdalina, C. sertularioides and K. alvarezii) showed antidermatophytic activity against Trichophyton spp. The minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) ranges for the plant extracts against T. rubrum and T. interdigitale are 0.0025-2.50 and 0.005-2.50mg/mL, respectively. The algae extracts exhibited lower potency against both species, showing MFC ranges of 0.08-2.50 and 0.31-2.50mg/mL, respectively. The ethanol and methanol extracts from the leaves of R. excelsa, and the methanol and water extracts from the leaves of S. myrtifolium were highly active (MFC<0.1mg/mL) and with high selectivity indices (SI>2.8) against reference strains of T. rubrum and T. interdigitale, and most of the clinical isolates of T. tonsurans. Phytochemical analysis indicates the presence of alkaloids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, phenolics and triterpenoids in the extracts. CONCLUSIONS The medicinal plant extracts exhibited stronger antidermatophytic activity compared to the algae extracts. The leaves of R. excelsa and S. myrtifolium are potential sources of new antidermatophytic agents against Trichophyton spp.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N W Sit
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia.
| | - Y S Chan
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - S C Lai
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - L N Lim
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - G T Looi
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - P L Tay
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Y T Tee
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - Y Y Woon
- Department of Biomedical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - K S Khoo
- Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, Bandar Barat, 31900 Kampar, Perak, Malaysia
| | - H C Ong
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Liou YF, Charoenkwan P, Srinivasulu Y, Vasylenko T, Lai SC, Lee HC, Chen YH, Huang HL, Ho SY. SCMHBP: prediction and analysis of heme binding proteins using propensity scores of dipeptides. BMC Bioinformatics 2014; 15 Suppl 16:S4. [PMID: 25522279 PMCID: PMC4290654 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2105-15-s16-s4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Heme binding proteins (HBPs) are metalloproteins that contain a heme ligand (an iron-porphyrin complex) as the prosthetic group. Several computational methods have been proposed to predict heme binding residues and thereby to understand the interactions between heme and its host proteins. However, few in silico methods for identifying HBPs have been proposed. Results This work proposes a scoring card method (SCM) based method (named SCMHBP) for predicting and analyzing HBPs from sequences. A balanced dataset of 747 HBPs (selected using a Gene Ontology term GO:0020037) and 747 non-HBPs (selected from 91,414 putative non-HBPs) with an identity of 25% was firstly established. Consequently, a set of scores that quantified the propensity of amino acids and dipeptides to be HBPs is estimated using SCM to maximize the predictive accuracy of SCMHBP. Finally, the informative physicochemical properties of 20 amino acids are identified by utilizing the estimated propensity scores to be used to categorize HBPs. The training and mean test accuracies of SCMHBP applied to three independent test datasets are 85.90% and 71.57%, respectively. SCMHBP performs well relative to comparison with such methods as support vector machine (SVM), decision tree J48, and Bayes classifiers. The putative non-HBPs with high sequence propensity scores are potential HBPs, which can be further validated by experimental confirmation. The propensity scores of individual amino acids and dipeptides are examined to elucidate the interactions between heme and its host proteins. The following characteristics of HBPs are derived from the propensity scores: 1) aromatic side chains are important to the effectiveness of specific HBP functions; 2) a hydrophobic environment is important in the interaction between heme and binding sites; and 3) the whole HBP has low flexibility whereas the heme binding residues are relatively flexible. Conclusions SCMHBP yields knowledge that improves our understanding of HBPs rather than merely improves the prediction accuracy in predicting HBPs.
Collapse
|
10
|
Ke L, Lai SC, Liu H, Peh CKN, Wang B, Teng JH. Ultrasmooth silver thin film on PEDOT:PSS nucleation layer for extended surface plasmon propagation. ACS Appl Mater Interfaces 2012; 4:1247-1253. [PMID: 22339782 DOI: 10.1021/am201391f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Poly(3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) layers are used as the nucleation (seed) layer to reduce surface roughness of the overlying silver (Ag). The technique leads to ultrasmooth Ag thin films with a minimum surface roughness of 0.8 nm. The mechanism contributing to the improvement is explained on the basis of better wetting of Ag on PEDOT:PSS, and properties of the nucleation layer on the aspects of surface energy, surface adhesive force, and surface morphology influencing Ag wetting and growth pattern are being discussed. The surface plasmon resonance (SPR) shows significant improvement, in terms of the Figure of Merits (FOM), as the surface roughness on Ag films is reduced. A lower light scattering and longer plasmon propagation of maximum 15.3 μm are also realized on a smoother Ag surface. The results indicate great potential on the application of combined PEDOT:PSS/Ag structure as an effective and economically feasible design solution for plasmonic and optical metamaterials devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Ke
- Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 3 Research Link, Singapore 117602.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
The study was to determine the seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in the sera of pregnant women in central Taiwan and to investigate the levels of cytokine in the sera of pregnant women with Toxoplasma gondii infection. The 220 blood samples were collected from pregnant women. The haematological parameters of peripheral blood were analysed by a haematology analyser. Serum samples of the pregnant women were analysed by a commercially available anti-T. gondii IgM/IgG antibody enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit and FlowCytomix assays. Six (2.7%) of the sera samples had IgM anti-T. gondii antibodies, and twenty (9.1%) had T. gondii IgG seropositive. All six IgM seropositive samples had low IgG avidity, indicative of acute infection. Total white blood cells and eosinophils were statistically significantly increased (p<0.05) in pregnant women with T. gondii infection, as compared with healthy pregnant women. Th1 cytokines IFN-γ, IL-1β, IL-2 and IL-12 p70, and Th2 cytokines IL-10 in pregnant women with T. gondii IgM/IgG seropositive were significantly increased (p<0.05), as compared with healthy pregnant women. These results showed that both of Th1 and Th2 cytokines play an important role in the toxoplasmosis of pregnant women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C S Chou
- Institute of Medicine, Chung San Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Wei PC, Tsai CH, Chiu PS, Lai SC. Matrix metalloproteinase-12 leads to elastin degradation in BALB/c mice with eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Int J Parasitol 2011; 41:1175-83. [PMID: 21856305 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpara.2011.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Revised: 07/07/2011] [Accepted: 07/08/2011] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The rat lugworm Angiostrongylus cantonensis can cause eosinophilic meningitis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-12 and its substrate elastin participate in this inflammatory response. We showed that the MMP-12/tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 ratio was significantly increased in the CSF of A. cantonensis-infected mice from day 10 p.i., and reached high levels on days 20 and 25 p.i. MMP-12 production was correlated with elastin degradation, eosinophil count, blood-CSF barrier permeability and pathological changes in the subarachnoid space. Also, MMP-12 might contribute to elastin degradation in the meningeal vessel of the subarachnoid space. Simultaneous administration of albendazole and doxycycline significantly reduced the levels of MMP-12, elastin and Evans blue in mice with meningitis. These results imply that MMP-12 contributes to the elastin degradation that occurs in angiostrongyliasis meningitis, and doxycycline can reverse related inflammatory events by inhibition of MMP-12.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P C Wei
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chou CS, Chou MC, Chen KM, Lu CY, Lai SC. Induction of plasminogen activators in pregnant women with Toxoplasma gondii infection. CLIN EXP OBSTET GYN 2011; 38:342-346. [PMID: 22268271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether plasminogen activators (PAs) are involved in the pathologic process of toxoplasmosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS Out of 220 pregnant women the study included 26 with a diagnosis of toxoplasmosis: six based on seropositivity for Toxoplasma gondii IgM and 20 based on seropositivity for T. gondii IgG. We measured serum activities and protein levels of PAs by casein zymography and Western blotting, respectively. RESULTS Serum PAs were higher in healthy pregnant women than in their healthy nonpregnant counterparts. Furthermore, serum PAs were significantly higher in pregnant women infected with T. gondii than in their healthy counterparts. CONCLUSION PAs participate in the pathogenesis of toxoplasmosis in pregnant women and may be useful markers of T. gondii infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C S Chou
- Institute of Medicine, Chung Shan Medical University, Taiwan, ROC
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lan KP, Lai SC. Differences of proteolytic enzymes and pathological changes in permissive and nonpermissive animal hosts for Angiostrongylus cantonensis infection. Vet Parasitol 2009; 165:265-72. [PMID: 19671486 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2009.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2009] [Revised: 07/03/2009] [Accepted: 07/15/2009] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In this study, mice (nonpermissive hosts) infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis showed significant worm degeneration and eosinophil degranulation, whereas infected rats (permissive hosts) showed lower worm degeneration and eosinophil degranulation. Pathophysiological changes developed to a lesser extent in rat than in the mouse strains. Neurological evaluation of A. cantonensis-infected mice showed mechanical damage caused by worms migrating to the brain. A significant correlation between the proteolytic enzymes, plasminogen activator (PA) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and pathological changes was found in hosts with eosinophilic meningitis or meningoencephalitis. Also, the ratio of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to serum albumin was consistently increased in hosts with angiostrongyliasis as compared with control. These data clearly indicate that PA and MMP-9 proteolytic enzymes as well as pathological changes are different in permissive and nonpermissive hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K P Lan
- Department of Laboratory, CiShan Hospital, 60 Chung-Hsueh Road, CiShan Chen, Kaohsiung County 842, Taiwan
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Lai SC, Chen KM, Chang YH, Lee HH. Comparative efficacies of albendazole and the Chinese herbal medicine long-dan-xie-gan-tan, used alone or in combination, in the treatment of experimental eosinophilic meningitis induced by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Ann Trop Med Parasitol 2008; 102:143-50. [PMID: 18318936 DOI: 10.1179/136485908x252304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the rat lungworm, is the principal cause of human eosinophilic meningitis or meningoencephalitis world-wide. In the present study, the efficacies of early-stage treatment with the Chinese herbal medicine long-dan-xie-gan-tan (LDXGT) and albendazole, used alone or in combination, were evaluated in BALB/c mice with A. cantonensis-induced dysfunction of the blood-central-nervous-system barrier and eosinophilic meningo-encephalitis. Indicators of the therapeutic effect included worm recovery, histopathological scores for the meningitis, assays of tissue-type plasminogen activator (PA), urokinase-type PA and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in the brain, the ratio between albumin concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum, and counts of eosinophils in the CSF. Combined treatment with albendazole and LDXGT gave better results than monotherapy based on either drug, apparently inhibiting eosinophilic meningitis via antagonists of the PA/MMP-9 system. LDXGT may have a therapeutic role in reducing inflammatory reaction in the subarachnoid space. Monotherapy with such an anti-inflammatory drug may relieve the symptoms of mild infection and the host's immune responses to A. cantonensis larvae. In severe infection, however, co-therapy with an anthelmintic (to kill the larvae) and an anti-inflammatory agent (to provide symptomatic relief) is probably a better approach. The therapeutic strategy should be tailored to the severity of the illness and the numbers of eosinophils in the CSF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Lai SC, Chen KM. Changes to plasminogen activators and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in dogs with toxocarosis. Vet Parasitol 2007; 150:122-7. [PMID: 17913363 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2007.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2007] [Revised: 08/06/2007] [Accepted: 08/22/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between proteolytic enzymes and hematological response to infection was studied in five 1-month-old dogs inoculated experimentally with 2000 eggs of Toxocara canis. Moderate leukocytosis and marked eosinophilia occurred 14 days post-infection with T. canis. Plasminogen activators (PAs) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity in serum was significantly different in dogs infected with T. canis, compared with controls. Urokinase-type PA (uPA) activity was positively correlated with eosinophilia, and tissue-type PA (tPA) and MMP-9 activity was negatively correlated with eosinophilia. However, there was no correlation between inflammation and MMP-2. The use of uPA, tPA or MMP-9 proteolytic enzymes as laboratory reference markers for toxocarosis requires further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110 Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Shih PC, Lee HH, Lai SC, Chen KM, Jiang ST, Chen YF, Shiow SJ. Efficacy of curcumin therapy against Angiostrongylus cantonensis-induced eosinophilic meningitis. J Helminthol 2007; 81:1-5. [PMID: 17381860 DOI: 10.1017/s0022149x07182353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis can invade the central nervous system, leading to human eosinophilic meningitis or eosinophilic meningoencephalitis. Curcumin is a natural product which has the effects of anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation and anti-carcinogensis, while the administration of curcumin has been reported to possibly relieve the symptoms of meningitis. The present study tested the potential efficacy of curcumin in A. cantonensis-induced eosinophilic meningitis of BALB/c mice. Assay indicators for the therapeutic effect included the larvicidal effect, eosinophil counts and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) activity in angiostrongyliasis. Eosinophils were mildly reduced in treatment groups compared with infected-untreated mice. However, there were no significant differences in larvicidal effects or MMP-9 activity. This study suggests that anti-inflammatory treatment with curcumin alone has low efficacy, but the treatment does not interfere with MMP-9 expression and is not useful for larvicidal effects. The possible reasons include low curcumin across the blood-brain barrier and also those larvae that survive stimulate MMP-9 production, which promotes blood-brain barrier damage, with leukocytes then crossing the blood-brain barrier to cause meningitis. Further studies will be required to test these possibilities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- P C Shih
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Tu WC, Lai SC. Induction of tumour necrosis factor, interleukin-1beta and matrix metalloproteinases in pulmonary fibrosis of rats infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. J Helminthol 2006; 80:305-11. [PMID: 16923276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
In angiostrongyliasis, chronic parasite-induced granuloma formation can lead to tissue destruction and fibrosis. Here, the histomorphology of granulomatous fibrosis and proteinase production in the lungs of Angiostrongylus cantonensis-infected Sprague-Dawley rats were investigated. The relationship between metalloproteinases and granulomatous fibrosis was investigated following infection of each rat with 60 infective larvae. Granulomata and fibrosis were marked in the lungs of rats on day 180 post-inoculation. Reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction of lung mRNA showed an up-expression of proinflammatory cytokine including tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1beta). According to Western blot analysis, matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) proenzyme was presented in the lungs of uninfected and infected rats, and partial conversion of 72 kDa proenzyme to the 64 kDa active form occurred in infected rats. In addition, increased protein levels of MMP-9 and MMP-13 were detected in infected lungs, but were undetectable in controls. The results suggest that TNF-alpha, IL-1beta, MMP-2, -9, and -13 may be associated with the granulomatous fibrosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W C Tu
- Department of Entomology, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Lai SC, Jiang ST, Chen KM, Lee HH. Matrix metalloproteinases activity demonstrated in the infective stage of the nematodes, Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Parasitol Res 2005; 97:466-71. [PMID: 16167160 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-005-1484-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2005] [Accepted: 08/03/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Ingestion of the larval nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis can cause the human eosinophilic meningitis known as angiostrongyliasis. Analysis of the extracts and excretory-secretory (ES) products of A. cantonensis larvae and adult stages on gelatin substrate zymography demonstrated the presence of distinct gelatinolytic enzymes. In worm extracts, inhibitor studies showed that the metalloproteinases revealed in L(1) (23 kDa), L(3) (66, 42 and 30 kDa), young adult worm (72 and 94 kDa) and adult worm (72 and 94 kDa). In ES products, the L(1) revealed one low (42 kDa) and two high (105 and 94 kDa) molecular weight proteolytic bands that degraded gelatin in substrate gels. The L(3) revealed three low (66, 50, and 30 kDa) and one high (105 kDa) molecular weight proteolytic bands. Inhibitor studies confirmed that the 105 and 94 proteolytic bands of the L(1), and the 50 and 30 kDa proteolytic bands of the L(3) classification were metalloproteinases. These metalloproteinases secreted in the infective larvae may be associated with the parasite dissemination or pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, 402 Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Tseng YK, Tu WC, Lee HH, Chen KM, Chou HL, Lai SC. Ultrastructural localization of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in eosinophils from the cerebrospinal fluid of mice with eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Ann Trop Med Parasitol 2005; 98:831-41. [PMID: 15667715 DOI: 10.1179/000349804x3199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. In the present study, such meningitis in mice was found to be associated with elevated expression of MMP-9 mRNA, elevated MMP-9 concentrations and enhanced MMP-9 activity in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Immunocytochemistry showed that an anti-MMP-9 antibody reacted with macrophages, neutrophils and eosinophils from the CSF. As eosinophils are generally considered to be effector cells in host defence against A. cantonensis infection, high-resolution immuno-electron microscopy was then used to confirm the localization of MMP-9 in the eosinophils from the CSF. The method used, which was based on immunogold, indicated that the eosinophilic MMP-9 was mostly localized in the 'small' granules in the cytoplasm and along the cell membrane, and not in the crystalloid-containing secretory granules observed. It therefore appears that MMP-9 is synthesised and/or stored in the small granules of the eosinophils, and is released into the subarachnoid space of the host's brain by secretion or cell rupture.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Y K Tseng
- Department of Entomology, National Chung-Hsing University, 250, Kuo-Kwang Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Hsu LS, Lee HH, Chen KM, Chou HL, Lai SC. Matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 in the granulomatous fibrosis of rats infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Ann Trop Med Parasitol 2005; 99:61-70. [PMID: 15701257 DOI: 10.1179/136485905x19919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The histomorphology of granuloma formation and gelatinase production were investigated in the brains, hearts, lungs and livers of Sprague-Dawley rats infected with Angiostrongylus cantonensis. The relationships between two gelatinases and granulomatous fibrosis were explored, following infection of each rat with 60 infective larvae of the nematode. Worm recovery from the brain was maximal on day 15 post-inoculation whereas peak recovery from the lungs was maximal 75 days later, on day 90. The granulomatous reactions and fibrosis were marked in the lungs but only mild, if present at all, in the brain, heart and liver. Gelatin zymography revealed that matrix metalloproteinase2 (MMP-2) was present, at all time-points, in the heart and lungs, although only in the lungs was there partial conversion of the 72-kDa pro-enzyme to the 64-kDa active form during granulomatous fibrosis. The activity of the MMP-9 pro-enzyme was significantly higher at the time-points when granuloma formation was observed than at other times. Immuno-histochemistry revealed MMP-2 and MMP-9 within the lung granulomas, around infiltrating leucocytes and the epithelial cells of the alveoli. As the granulomatous fibrosis appeared to be strongly associated with MMP-2 and MMP-9, these enzymes may be useful markers in the lungs of rats infected with A. cantonensis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L S Hsu
- Institute of Biochemistry, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Lai SC, Twu JJ, Jiang ST, Hsu JD, Chen KM, Chiaing HC, Wang CJ, Tseng CK, Shyu LY, Lee HH. Induction of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in murine eosinophilic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Ann Trop Med Parasitol 2005; 98:715-24. [PMID: 15509425 DOI: 10.1179/000349804225021479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) have been implicated in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. In the present study, a gelatinase was found to be induced in parasitic meningitis caused, in mice, by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. The enzyme had a molecular weight of about 94 kDa, showed maximal activity between pH 6 and pH 8, and was clearly inhibited by EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline but not by leupeptin or phenylmethanesulphonyl fluoride. When samples of cerebrospinal fluid from the mice with meningitis were blotted with specific antiserum against gelatinase B (MMP-9), a 94-kDa immunopositive band was observed, indicating that the induced gelatinase was MMP-9. In the A. cantonensis-infected mice, immuno-histochemistry demonstrated MMP-9 within the endothelial cells lining the vascular spaces of the brain and in the leucocytes that were found, in aggregates, in the subarachnoid space. Leucocytes may play an important role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders of the central nervous system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lai SC, Jiang ST, Chen KM, Hsu JD, Shyu LY, Lee HH. Efficacy of albendazole-GM6001 co-therapy against Angiostrongylus cantonensis-induced meningitis in BALB/c mice. Acta Trop 2005; 93:267-73. [PMID: 15716044 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2004.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2004] [Revised: 12/08/2004] [Accepted: 12/14/2004] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Angiostrongylus cantonensis causes a form of parasitic meningitis in humans. Albendazole kills the nematode larvae staying in the brain. However, the dead larvae are capable of evoking a severe inflammatory response resulting in the brain damage. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is associated with the development of meningitis and with the immune inflammatory reaction. Presently, we studied the combination effects of albendazole and GM6001 (a MMP-9 inhibitor) against angiostrongyliasis in BALB/c mice. Co-administration of drugs produced marked effects; to kill the infecting larvae and to block MMP-9 activity. The combination treatment reduced MMP-9 activity by 89.2% in cerebrospinal fluid. The numbers of inflammatory cells increased significantly upon establishment of infection, but subsided upon co-treatment. Significantly fewer larvae were recovered from treated mice than from untreated, infected mice. The present results strongly suggest that co-therapy with albendazole and GM6001 may be an useful approach for the treatment of human angiostrongyliasis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110 Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Lan KP, Wang CJ, Hsu JD, Chen KM, Lai SC, Lee HH. Induced eosinophilia and proliferation in Angiostrongylus cantonensis-infected mouse brain are associated with the induction of JAK/STAT1, IAP/NF-kappaB and MEKK1/JNK signals. J Helminthol 2005; 78:311-7. [PMID: 15575987 DOI: 10.1079/joh2004256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Eosinophilic meningitis or meningoencephalitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis is endemic to the Pacific area of Asia, especially Taiwan, Thailand, and Japan. Although eosinophilia is an important clinical manifestation of A. cantonensis infection, the role of eosinophils in the progress of the infection remains to be elucidated. In this experiment, we show that A. cantonensis-induced eosinophilia and inflammation might lead to the induction of IAP/NF-kappaB, JAK/STAT1 and MEKK1/JNK signals. The phosphorylation levels of JAK and JNK, STAT1, IAP, NF-kappaB and MEKK1 protein products were significantly increased after 12 days or 15 days of A. cantonensis infection. However, no significant differences in MAPKs such as Raf, MEK-1, ERK1/2 and p38 expression were found between control and infected mice. The activation potency of JAK/STAT1, IAP/NF-kappaB and MEKK1/JNK started increasing on day 3, with significant induction on day 12 or day 15 after A. cantonensis infection. Consistent results were noted in the pathological observations, including eosinophilia, leukocyte infiltration, granulomatous reactions, and time responses in the brain tissues of infected mice. These data suggest that the development of brain injury by eosinophilia of A. cantonensis infection is associated with activation of JAK/STAT1 signals by cytokines, and/or activation of MEKK1/JNK by oxidant stress, and/or activation of NF-kappaB by increasing IAP expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K P Lan
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, Taichung 402, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Lai SC, Chen KM, Chen HC, Lee HH. Induction of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in mice during Toxocara canis larvae migration. Parasitol Res 2005; 95:193-200. [PMID: 15645290 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-004-1271-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2004] [Accepted: 10/14/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The relationships between inflammation in organs with Toxocara canis larval migration and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were investigated following the infection of mice with 1,000 infective eggs. Gelatinase activity was defined by gelatin zymography, optimum pH, inhibitor specificity and Western blot analysis. MMP-9 activity was present in the lungs, liver, muscles, and brain during T. canis larval migration. This enzyme had a molecular weight of about 94 kDa and showed maximum activity in the pH range of 6-8. The increased MMP-9 proteinases coincided with larval recovery and the degree of inflammation among the four organs. These results suggest that MMP-9 may be associated with the inflammatory reaction to larval toxocariasis during early migration, and may therefore be a useful marker during T. canis larvae migration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 110, Section 1, Chien-Kuo North Road, 402, Taichung , Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Lee HH, Chou HL, Chen KM, Lai SC. Association of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in eosinophilic meningitis of BALB/c mice caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Parasitol Res 2004; 94:321-8. [PMID: 15449178 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-004-1196-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2004] [Accepted: 07/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Induction of gelatinase in eosinophilic meningitis of BALB/c-strain mice was caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Time-course studies showed that the molecular weight of 94-kDa gelatinase was detected at day 10 post-inoculation (PI), and reached a high intensity from days 15 to 25 PI. The 94-kDa gelatinase activity was clearly inhibited by EDTA and 1,10-phenanthroline, but not by leupeptin and phenylmethanesulphonyl fluoride. When immunoblots were performed using specific antiserums against the 94-kDa gelatinase B (matrix metalloproteinase-9; MMP-9) with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the 94-kDa immunopositive band was MMP-9. Immunohistochemistry studies demonstrated MMP-9 localisation within eosinophils and macrophages. The increased MMP-9 activity was closely associated with the rapid rise of CSF eosinophils, and the inflammatory reaction of the subarachnoid space. In contrast to changes in MMP-9, MMP-2 activity was constitutive and unaffected in this parasitic meningitis. These results show that MMP-9 was associated with eosinophilic meningitis, and that the enzyme may be a useful marker for angiostrongyliasis meningitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H H Lee
- Department of Parasitology, Chung Shan Medical University, 402 Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Lan KP, Wang CJ, Lai SC, Chen KM, Lee SS, Hsu JD, Lee HH. The efficacy of therapy with albendazole in mice with parasitic meningitis caused by Angiostrongylus cantonensis. Parasitol Res 2004; 93:311-7. [PMID: 15179507 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-004-1105-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2003] [Accepted: 02/23/2004] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is involved in the pathogenesis of parasitic meningitis caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis. The present study evaluated the efficacy of albendazole therapy in BALB/c mice infected with the third stage larvae of this nematode. Albendazole showed a pronounced larvicidal activity. Eosinophil numbers significantly increased in infected mice but decreased upon administration of albendazole. Densitometric scanning indicated that albendazole reduced gelatinolytic activity detected by gelatin-substrate zymography. In the cerebrospinal fluid, albendazole reduced the lytic area intensity of the 94 kDa MMP-9 band by 46.5% within 7 days, and by 51.5% by day 14. Examination of brain tissue revealed a similar pattern of decrease (48.6% by day 7, and 53.9% by day 14). Albendazole may thus be an effective compound for the treatment of angiostrongyliasis through its larvicidal activity and facilitation of an improved inflammatory response via the reduction of MMP-9 activity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K P Lan
- Institute of Biochemistry, Chung Shan Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Tsai PC, Chang FC, Tsai CH, Jang FR, Shen AN, Huang YT, Lai SC, Yeh TH, Lu MK, Lu CS. Focal hand myoclonus caused by a small hematoma underneath the cerebral motor cortex. Eur Neurol 2003; 50:114-7. [PMID: 12944720 DOI: 10.1159/000072512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- P C Tsai
- Department of Neurology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Lai SC, Chen CC, Hou RF. Electron microscopic observations on wound-healing in larvae of the mosquito Armigeres subalbatus (Diptera: Culicidae). J Med Entomol 2001; 38:836-843. [PMID: 11761382 DOI: 10.1603/0022-2585-38.6.836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The wound-healing processes in the mosquito Armigeres subalbatus (Coquillett) were observed with electron microscopy. The initial reaction involved wound contractions and aggregation of injured surface tissues, cell debris and movement of granulocytes toward the wound. Granulocytes first aggregated around the surface of the wound and many filamentous filopodia protruded to connect with cytoplasmic strands. These strands were then interconnected to form a network coagulum resulting in wound closure to prevent body fluid loss. Granulocytes lysed on the wound-site and released granular materials around the wound, inducing localized clot formation. These results suggested that wound-healing in this mosquito species involved both humoral and cellular reactions. The latter reaction involved the movement of plasmatocytes to the basement membrane of the epidermis beneath the wound-site and epithelial cells regeneration. Our observations revealed that wound-healing in A. subalbatus involves the wound contraction, formation of a temporary cellular clump, scar formation, basement membrane formation, and reepithelialization. The larvae neither discarded the wound scar nor secreted a new cuticle until the next molting. Based on the ultrastructural observations, it is suggested that the wound-healing reaction in A. subalbatus was probably a typical response employed by other members of the family Culicidae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Entomology, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan, ROC
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
The mechanism responsible for hydrogen-peroxide- or sodium-hypochlorite-induced reductions in dentin bond strength is unknown. This in vitro study tested the hypothesis that these oxidizing agents were responsible by attempting to reverse the effect with sodium ascorbate, a reducing agent. Human dentin was treated with these oxidants before or after being acid-etched and with or without post-treatment with sodium ascorbate. They were bonded with either Single Bond or Excite. Hydrogen peroxide reduced the bond strengths of both adhesives, while sodium hypochlorite produced reduction in adhesion of only Single Bond (p < 0.05). Following treatment with sodium ascorbate, reductions in bond strength were reversed. Transmission and scanning electron microscopy showed partial removal of the demineralized collagen matrix only by sodium hypochlorite. The observed compromised bond strengths cannot be attributed to incomplete deproteinization and may be related to changes in the redox potential of the bonding substrates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Hong Kong, Prince Philip Dental Hospital, SAR, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
AIMS An immuno-polymerase chain reaction (immuno-PCR) has been developed for the sensitive detection of antigens, which greatly extends the detection limits of immunoassays. In the current study, the method was applied to the detection of Clostridium botulinum neurotoxin type A (BTx-A). METHODS AND RESULTS Anti-BTx-A antibody-DNA conjugates were synthesized using a heterobifunctional cross-linker reagent to covalently link the reporter DNA and the antibodies. The antibody-DNA conjugates with antigens were amplified by PCR, and dose-dependent relationships for each analyte were demonstrated. Detection limits of immuno-PCR for BTx-A (3.33 x 10(-17) mol) exceeded the conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (3.33 x 10(-14) mol) by a 1000-fold enhancement in detection sensitivity. CONCLUSION Detection of BTx-A antigens by immuno-PCR demonstrated 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity in 100-fold magnitude below the detection limit of ELISA. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY It is concluded that the immuno-PCR method could be used to detect a very low level of BTx-A for clinical diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H C Wu
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lai SC, Cohen MN. Promoting lifestyle changes. Am J Nurs 1999; 99:63-7. [PMID: 10234327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Multidisciplinary Cardiovascular Risk Reduction Patient Education Program, Jacobi Medical Center, Bronx, NY, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Chen LK, Lin YL, Liao CL, Lin CG, Huang YL, Yeh CT, Lai SC, Jan JT, Chin C. Generation and characterization of organ-tropism mutants of Japanese encephalitis virus in vivo and in vitro. Virology 1996; 223:79-88. [PMID: 8806542 DOI: 10.1006/viro.1996.0457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Using gamma-ray irradiation, a pair of virulent (RP-9) and attenuated (RP-2ms) variants of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) were generated from a Taiwanese isolate, NT109. The two variants differed in plaque morphology, virus adsorption, and growth properties in BHK-21 cells: (i) RP-2ms produced smaller plaques than RP-9; (ii) RP-2ms adsorbed less efficiently to host cells but yielded a higher virus titer (burst size); and (iii) RP-2ms virions were mostly accumulated intracellularly, whereas RP-9 was released extracellularly. In addition, in an in vitro binding assay, the envelope (E) protein of RP-9, but not that of RP-2ms, bound specifically to a cellular protein of 57-kDa derived from BHK-21 cells. When injected into mice intracerebrally, RP-2ms was much less virulent than RP-9, with 50% lethal doses of > 10(7) and 0.4 plaque forming units, respectively. Moreover, when inoculated intraperitoneally, their organ tropism differed in that the main target organ for RP-2ms was liver, whereas that for RP-9 was brain. These results suggest that RP-2ms was less neurovirulent and less neuroinvasive from peripheral routes. Molecular analysis of the virus structural proteins detected only two differences between RP-9 and RP-2ms: one in E protein, Glu-138 in RP-9 and Lys-138 in RP-2ms, and the other in prM, Tyr-43 in RP-9 and His-43 in RP-2ms. Since the N-terminal 92 amino acids of prM are cleaved and not present in mature JEV virions, the single-amino-acid change of the E protein at position 138 may account for the difference between the mutants in the in vitro binding assay. Such mutation in E protein, or perhaps in conjunction with the prM mutation, may be responsible, in part, for the phenotypic differences observed in vitro and in vivo between the two mutants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L K Chen
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Tsen SD, Lai SC, Pang CP, Lee JI, Wilson TH. Chemostat selection of an Escherichia coli mutant containing permease with enhanced lactose affinity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 1996; 224:351-7. [PMID: 8702394 DOI: 10.1006/bbrc.1996.1032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Chemostats supplied with limited lactose were used to ask whether it was possible to generate and isolate any mutant of Escherichia coli lactose permease which allowed cells to grow faster. The permease and beta-galactosidase activities of the chemostat culture initially rose together to reach a plateau. After 30 days, the former underwent a second increase alone. From this culture, a faster-growing mutant was isolated. Its permease gene was cloned, sequenced, and found to have a single base pair changed. Thymine at position 199 was changed to guanine, resulting in serine 67 being substituted by alanine. Cells bearing this mutant in the plasmid could grow faster than parents in 10 microM lactose. The Km of the mutant permease toward lactose was 1.4 mM, about half of the wild-type value. Thus, a mutant with higher affinity for substrate could be selected from the chemostat.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S D Tsen
- Graduate Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
35
|
Abstract
Experiments were conducted to determine the repertoire of odors that are involved in sexual recognition and communication about reproductive state in Djungarian hamsters (Phodopus campbelli). By examining the preferences of males for odors of females over those of males, it was found that some odors support preferences across female reproductive states, other odors induce preferences only during estrus, and yet other odors do not elicit sexual preferences. Similarly, female preferences for male odors was restricted to just some scents. Males were also tested for their preferences for female odors from different reproductive states (diestrous, day before parturition, post-partum estrus). Four different odors were found to vary in attractiveness with these reproductive states, and there were three different patterns of change: (1) mouth and urine odors were attractive just during post-partum estrous; (2) midventral gland was most attractive the day before parturition; (3) vaginal secretions showed a graded pattern of attractiveness, peaking at post-partum estrus. These results show that different odors provide some redundant and some different information, and they suggest that an across-odor code could be used to provide very precise information about a female's reproductive state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Department of Psychology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Chen LK, Liao CL, Lin CG, Lai SC, Liu CI, Ma SH, Huang YY, Lin YL. Persistence of Japanese encephalitis virus is associated with abnormal expression of the nonstructural protein NS1 in host cells. Virology 1996; 217:220-9. [PMID: 8599206 DOI: 10.1006/viro.1996.0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Persistent infection with Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) was established in murine neuroblastoma N18 cells, and the persistency has been maintained in cell culture for over 6 months. From the persistently infected cells, a clone named C2-2 was selected and expanded to form a stable cell line. The vast majority of C2-2 cells showed viral protein staining by immunofluorescence and continuously produced low levels of virus (10(3) to 10(4) PFU/ml) without marked cytopathic effects or cyclic variations. In addition to the wild-type viral proteins, truncated forms of the viral nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) as well as its derivative NS1' were produced in C2-2 cells. Both truncated NS1 and NS1' contain deletions at their N-termini; however, the analyses by RT-PCR and direct sequencing of the viral RNA failed to detect any truncations or mutations within the NS1 region, suggesting that NS1 truncation was a result of a unique posttranslational proteolytic cleavage of NS1 in the persistently infected cells. Similar but not identical truncation of NS1 was also observed in two other persistently infected cell lines established in Vero and DBT (murine astrocytoma) cells. However, viruses released from C2-2 cells did not produce truncated NS1 upon infection of N18 cells, suggesting that NS1 truncations were the result of virus-cell interaction in persistently infected cells. These data indicate a strong association between abnormal NS1 expression and JEV persistency. A probable involvement of dysfunctional NS1 in the establishment and/or maintenance of JEV persistency in tissue culture is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L K Chen
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Abstract
A series of omega-aminoalkoxylxanthones were synthesized and tested in-vitro for their ability to inhibit aggregation of rabbit washed platelets and human platelet-rich plasma (PRP) induced by various inducers. Nine of these compounds showed more potent antiplatelet effects than natural norathyriol tetraacetate on collagen-induced aggregation. The various omega-aminoalkoxyl side chains of the synthesized compounds modified the antiplatelet effects. All the compounds tested in human PRP showed significant inhibition of secondary aggregation induced by adrenaline, suggesting that the antiplatelet effects of these compounds is mainly due to an inhibitory effect on thromboxane formation. These compounds at high concentration also cause vasorelaxing action in rat thoracic aorta.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C N Lin
- School of Pharmacy, Kaohsuing Medical College, Taiwan, ROC
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Wu CH, Ko YM, Wang LA, Lai SC. [CHARGE association: report of a case with literature review]. J Formos Med Assoc 1993; 92 Suppl 3:S146-51. [PMID: 7906167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The CHARGE association was described as a cluster of multiple congenital defects by Pagon et al in 1981. The underlining cause of this association is not yet clear. These defects include coloboma of the eye tissues (C), heart disease (H), atresia choanae (A), retarded growth and development and/or CNS anomalies (R), genital anomalies (G), ear anomalies and/or hearing loss (E). Here we report a case of CHARGE association in a 15-year-old female patient. She presented with unilateral ptosis and coloboma of the iris, choroid and retina, patent ductus arteriosus, growth and mental retardation, unilateral ear deformity and a hearing loss. A total of 124 cases have been reported up to now in the literature. We also discuss the frequency of the respective clinical symptoms and signs, and the leading causes of misdiagnosis. We emphasize the importance of ophthalmology and ENT consultations whenever a patient is noted to have multiple congenital anomalies, especially when a cardiac defect is present. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for this rare association.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C H Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Municipal Yang-Ming Hospital, Taiwan, R.O.C
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Lai SC, Chang TC, Wu SI, Chen KT. Prevalence of goiters in school children residing in villages where underground water is used. J Formos Med Assoc 1992; 91:970-5. [PMID: 1362676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023] Open
Abstract
A representative of Fuder village in Taichung County complained that many residents had a goiter problem, which he felt might be related to pollution from the nearby Youshi industrial area. The purpose of this study was to determine whether school children in the Fuder area have a high prevalence of goiters. We chose children of the Schichi elementary school in the Fuder area as the study population, and children of the Goumei elementary school, far from the Youshi industrial area, as controls. Both groups were from a similar geographic location (near the sea), had similar socioeconomic status, and both drank underground water. Thyroid enlargement was examined by palpation as recommended by the World Health Organization. Thyroid antibodies and hormones were determined in school children with a goiter and age-sex-matched normal control children using the particle agglutination method and radioimmunoassay, respectively. In total, 1,692 school children were examined, including 875 males and 817 females. Of these, 126 school children (7.4%) had a goiter of Grade I or above. The prevalence of goiters in Shichi and Goumei were 8.8% (59/671) and 6.6% (67/1,021), respectively. There was no significant difference between these two areas. We compared the prevalence of goiters in these two schools where underground water is drunk with another previous study in Peimen and Putai where tap water is used. There was a statistically significant difference (7.4% vs 2.6%, p < 0.0001). This suggests that the higher prevalence rate of goiters in Shichi and Goumei is related to the drinking of underground water. We recommend that the use of tap water and continued salt iodization is the way to prevent endemic goiter in these areas. A further comprehensive study is needed to determine the nature of the goitrogen in the underground drinking water of the Fuder area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Lai
- Institute of Preventive Medicine, Department of Health, National Taiwan University, Taipei, R.O.C
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|