Mechanistic Insights into Ferroptotic Cell Death in Pancreatic Islets

Ferroptosis was recently identified as a non-apoptotic, iron-dependent cell death mechanism that is involved in various pathologic conditions. There is first evidence for its significance also in the context of islet isolation and transplantation. Transplantation of pancreatic human islets is a viable treatment strategy for patients with complicated diabetes mellitus type 1 (T1D) that suffer from severe hypoglycemia. A major determinant for functional outcome is the initial islet mass transplanted. Efficient islet isolation procedures and measures to minimize islet loss are therefore of high relevance. To this end, better understanding and subsequent targeted inhibition of cell death during islet isolation and transplantation is an effective approach. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the mechanism of ferroptosis in pancreatic islets. Using a rodent model, isolated islets were characterized relating to the effects of experimental induction (RSL3) and inhibition (Fer1) of ferroptotic pathways. Besides viability, survival, and function, the study focused on characteristic ferroptosis-associated intracellular changes such as MDA level, iron concentration and the expression of ACSL4. The study demonstrates that pharmaceutical induction of ferroptosis by RSL3 causes enhancement of oxidative stress and leads to an increase of intracellular iron, zinc and MDA concentration, as well as the expression of ACSL4 protein. Consequently, a massive reduction of islet function, viability, and survival was found. Fer1 has the potential to inhibit and attenuate these cellular changes and thereby protect the islets from cell death.

The Adrenal Gland and Pancreatic Islets - A Beneficial Endocrine Alliance

Intraportal islet transplantation in patients with type 1 diabetes enables restoration of glucose-regulated insulin secretion. However, several factors hamper a widespread application and long-term success: chronic hypoxia, an inappropriate microenvironment and suppression of regenerative and proliferative potential by high local levels of immunosuppressive agents. Therefore, the identification of alternative and superior transplant sites is of major scientific and clinical interest. Here, we aim to evaluate the adrenal as an alternative transplantation site. The adrenal features a particular microenvironment with extensive vascularization, anti-apoptotic and pro-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive effects. To validate this novel transplantation site, an in vitro co-culture system of adrenal cells and pancreatic islets was established and viability, islet survival, functional potency and antioxidative defense capacity were evaluated. For in vivo validation, an immune-deficient diabetic mouse model for intra-adrenal islet transplantation was applied. The functional capacity of intra-adrenally grafted islets to reverse diabetes was compared to a standard islet transplant model and measures of engraftment such as vascular integration were evaluated. The presence of adrenal cells positively impacted on cell metabolism and oxidative stress. Following transplantation, we could demonstrate enhanced islet function in comparison to standard models with improved engraftment and superior re-vascularization. This experimental approach allows for novel insights into the interaction of endocrine systems and may open up novel strategies for islet transplantation augmented through the bystander effect of other endocrine cells or the active factors secreted by adrenal cells modulating the microenvironment.

A transcriptional cross species map of pancreatic islet cells

OBJECTIVE

Pancreatic islets of Langerhans secrete hormones to regulate systemic glucose levels. Emerging evidence suggests that islet cells are functionally heterogeneous to allow a fine-tuned and efficient endocrine response to physiological changes. A precise description of the molecular basis of this heterogeneity, in particular linking animal models to human islets, is an important step towards identifying the factors critical for endocrine cell function in physiological and pathophysiological conditions.

METHODS

In this study, we used single-cell RNA sequencing to profile more than 50'000 endocrine cells isolated from healthy human, pig and mouse pancreatic islets and characterize transcriptional heterogeneity and evolutionary conservation of those cells across the three species. We systematically delineated endocrine cell types and α- and β-cell heterogeneity through prior knowledge- and data-driven gene sets shared across species, which altogether capture common and differential cellular properties, transcriptional dynamics and putative driving factors of state transitions.

RESULTS

We showed that global endocrine expression profiles correlate, and that critical identity and functional markers are shared between species, while only approximately 20% of cell type enriched expression is conserved. We resolved distinct human α- and β-cell states that form continuous transcriptional landscapes. These states differentially activate maturation and hormone secretion programs, which are related to regulatory hormone receptor expression, signaling pathways and different types of cellular stress responses. Finally, we mapped mouse and pig cells to the human reference and observed that the spectrum of human α- and β-cell heterogeneity and aspects of such functional gene expression are better recapitulated in the pig than mouse data.

CONCLUSIONS

Here, we provide a high-resolution transcriptional map of healthy human islet cells and their murine and porcine counterparts, which is easily queryable via an online interface. This comprehensive resource informs future efforts that focus on pancreatic endocrine function, failure and regeneration, and enables to assess molecular conservation in islet biology across species for translational purposes.

Quality of life and metabolic outcomes after total pancreatectomy and simultaneous islet autotransplantation

Background

Pancreas surgery remains technically challenging and is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. Identification of predictive risk factors for complications have led to a stratified surgical approach and postoperative management. The option of simultaneous islet autotransplantation (sIAT) allows for significant attenuation of long-term metabolic and overall complications and improvement of quality of life (QoL). The potential of sIAT to stratify a priori the indication for total pancreatectomy is yet not adequately evaluated.

Methods

The aim of this analysis was to evaluate the potential of sIAT in patients undergoing total pancreatectomy to improve QoL, functional and overall outcome and therefore modify the surgical strategy towards earlier and extended indications. A center cohort of 24 patients undergoing pancreatectomy were simultaneously treated with IAT. Patients were retrospectively analyzed regarding in-hospital and overall mortality, postoperative complications, ICU stay, hospital stay, metabolic outcome, and QoL.

Results

Here we present that all patients undergoing primary total pancreatectomy or surviving complicated two-stage pancreas resection and receiving sIAT show excellent metabolic outcome (33% insulin independence, 66% partial graft function; HbA1c 6,1 ± 1,0%) and significant benefit regarding QoL. Primary total pancreatectomy leads to significantly improved overall outcome and a significant reduction in ICU- and hospital stay compared to a two-stage completion pancreatectomy approach.

Conclusions

The findings emphasize the importance of risk-stratified pancreas surgery. Feasibility of sIAT should govern the indication for primary total pancreatectomy particularly in high-risk patients. In rescue completion pancreatectomy sIAT should be performed whenever possible due to tremendous metabolic benefit and associated QoL.

Pancreas surgery is complicated and associated with substantial risks and even danger of death. The surgical removal of the whole pancreas can be necessary for some indications but results in a severe form of diabetes. The method of islet autotransplantation (IAT) involves taking the pancreas, isolating the insulin-producing cells and returning these to the patient. This helps to preserve insulin production and minimises the impact of diabetes. We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of patients undergoing pancreatectomy that were simultaneously treated with IAT. The analysis included short-term and long-term surgical and diabetes-related outcomes as well as quality of life. All parameters indicated the benefit of IAT in patients that require extensive pancreas surgery. Offering IAT to patients may reduce surgical complications after pancreatectomy, enhance recovery, and therefore facilitate faster initiation of other therapies where needed.

Ludwig and Distler et al. evaluate quality of life and metabolic outcomes in patients undergoing total pancreatectomy and simultaneous islet autotransplantation. The authors report benefits in terms of glycemic control, as well as improvements in quality of life, following the procedure.

Two-Loop Four-Fermion Scattering Amplitude in QED

We present the first fully analytic evaluation of the transition amplitude for the scattering of a massless into a massive pair of fermions at the two-loop level in quantum electrodynamics. Our result is an essential ingredient for the determination of the electromagnetic coupling within scattering reactions, beyond the currently known accuracy, which has a crucial impact on the evaluation of the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon. It will allow, in particular, for a precise determination of the leading hadronic contribution to the (g-2)_{μ} in the MUonE experiment at CERN, and therefore can be used to shed light on the current discrepancy between the standard model prediction and the experimental measurement for this important physical observable.

On μe-scattering at NNLO in QED

We report on the current status of the analytic evaluation of the two-loop corrections to the μescattering in Quantum Electrodynamics, presenting state-of-the art techniques which have been developed to address this challenging task.

Modeling Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia and Testing Interventions for Adrenal Insufficiency Using Donor-Specific Reprogrammed Cells

Adrenal insufficiency is managed by hormone replacement therapy, which is far from optimal; the ability to generate functional steroidogenic cells would offer a unique opportunity for a curative approach to restoring the complex feedback regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Here, we generated human induced steroidogenic cells (hiSCs) from fibroblasts, blood-, and urine-derived cells through forced expression of steroidogenic factor-1 and activation of the PKA and LHRH pathways. hiSCs had ultrastructural features resembling steroid-secreting cells, expressed steroidogenic enzymes, and secreted steroid hormones in response to stimuli. hiSCs were viable when transplanted into the mouse kidney capsule and intra-adrenal. Importantly, the hypocortisolism of hiSCs derived from patients with adrenal insufficiency due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia was rescued by expressing the wild-type version of the defective disease-causing enzymes. Our study provides an effective tool with many potential applications for studying adrenal pathobiology in a personalized manner and opens venues for the development of precision therapies.

Production of high-quality islets from goettingen minipigs: Choice of organ preservation solution, donor pool, and optimal cold ischemia time

BACKGROUND

The transplantation of porcine islets into man might soon become reality for patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Therefore, porcine islets of high quality and quantity, and a scalable isolation process with strict quality control will be an unconditional prerequisite to enable the best possible transplantation graft. In this study, we provide a comparative study evaluating islet isolation outcome and in vitro survival based upon donor age, organ preservation solution (OPS), and cold ischemia time (CIT).

METHODS

Goettingen minipigs of younger age (1 year) and retired breeder animals (3.5 years) were studied. Pancreata were harvested according to the standards of human organ retrieval including in situ cold perfusion with either Custodiol^® -HTK or Belzer^® UW solution. Pancreatic tissue was characterized by quantification of apoptotic cells. Islet isolations were performed according to a modified Ricordi method, and isolation outcome was assessed by determining islet particle numbers (IP), islet equivalents (IEQ), and isolation factor (IF). Isolated islets were cultured for 24 and 48 h for the assessment of in vitro survival.

RESULTS

Islet viability was significantly higher in Custodiol^® -HTK preserved pancreas organs compared to Belzer^® UW. Furthermore, organs harvested from retired breeder preserved in Custodiol^® -HTK resulted in stable islet isolation yields even after prolonged CIT and showed superior survival rates of islets in vitro compared to the Belzer^® UW group. Younger porcine donor organs resulted generally in lower islet yield and survival rates.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, Custodiol^® -HTK solution should be preferred over Belzer^® UW solution for the preservation of pancreata from porcine origin. Custodiol^® -HTK allows for maintaining islet viability and promotes reproducible isolation outcome and survival even after longer CIT. The usage of retired breeder animals over young animals for islet isolation is highly advisable to yield high quality and quantity.

Erratum: Higgs Boson Pair Production in Gluon Fusion at Next-to-Leading Order with Full Top-Quark Mass Dependence [Phys. Rev. Lett. 117, 012001 (2016)]

This corrects the article DOI: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.117.012001.

Higgs Boson Pair Production in Gluon Fusion at Next-to-Leading Order with Full Top-Quark Mass Dependence

We present the calculation of the cross section and invariant mass distribution for Higgs boson pair production in gluon fusion at next-to-leading order (NLO) in QCD. Top-quark masses are fully taken into account throughout the calculation. The virtual two-loop amplitude has been generated using an extension of the program GoSam supplemented with an interface to Reduze for the integral reduction. The occurring integrals have been calculated numerically using the program SecDec. Our results, including the full top-quark mass dependence for the first time, allow us to assess the validity of various approximations proposed in the literature, which we also recalculate. We find substantial deviations between the NLO result and the different approximations, which emphasizes the importance of including the full top-quark mass dependence at NLO.

Increased gene expression of the cardiac endothelin system in obese mice

Obesity is a well-known risk factor of atherosclerosis and heart failure. In the human heart, a local endothelin system containing prepro-endothelin-1, endothelin-converting enzyme-1, and endothelin receptors A and B has been described. The endothelin system is activated in heart failure; however, the impact of obesity on the cardiac endothelin system is unknown. In this study, 18-week-old male C57BL/6 mice fed either a control diet or a high-fat diet for 10 weeks were analyzed. High-fat diet significantly increased the body weight of the animals and augmented low-density lipoprotein, high-density lipoprotein, and cholesterol plasma levels, compared to control. The animal groups showed no significant differences in left ventricular size or function (heart rate, ejection fraction, fractional shortening, left ventricular posterior wall thickness, cardiac output) after control or high-fat diet. We did not observe signs of cardiac hypertrophy or changes in markers of cardiac fibrosis in these heart samples. The cardiac expression of prepro-endothelin-1 mRNA, endothelin-converting enzyme-1 mRNA, and protein and endothelin receptors A and B mRNA was increased in 18-week-old obese C57BL/6 mice compared to animals with normal weight (p<0.05 vs. control). Furthermore, endothelin-1 plasma levels showed an increasing trend. In conclusion, an increased expression of genes of the endothelin system was observed in the hearts of 18-week-old mice after high-fat diet, possibly contributing to later cardiovascular complications of obesity.

Stable carboxylic acid derivatized alkoxy silanes

A convenient and straightforward one-pot hydrosilylation reaction of different unsaturated carboxylic acids with trialkoxysilanes in the presence of catalytic amounts of platinum(IV) dioxide resulted in excellent yields in organofunctional silanes combining carboxy- and alkoxy groups within one molecule.

20-Aminosteroids as a novel class of selective and complete androgen receptor antagonists and inhibitors of prostate cancer cell growth

Here, the synthesis and the evaluation of novel 20-aminosteroids on androgen receptor (AR) activity is reported. Compounds 11 and 18 of the series inhibit both the wild type and the T877A mutant AR-mediated transactivation indicating AR antagonistic function. Interestingly, minor structural changes such as stereoisomers of the amino lactame moiety exhibit preferences for antagonism among wild type and mutant AR. Other tested nuclear receptors are only weakly or not affected. In line with this, the prostate cancer cell growth of androgen-dependent but not of cancer cells lacking expression of the AR is inhibited. Further, the expression of the prostate specific antigen used as a diagnostic marker is also repressed. Finally steroid 18 enhances cellular senescence that might explain in part the growth inhibition mediated by this derivative. Steroids 11 and 18 are the first steroids that act as complete AR antagonists and exhibit AR specificity.

The natural compound atraric acid is an antagonist of the human androgen receptor inhibiting cellular invasiveness and prostate cancer cell growth

Extracts from Pygeum africanum are used in the treatment of prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer (Pca), major health problems of men in Western countries. The ligand-activated human androgen receptor (AR) supports the growth of the prostate gland. Inhibition of human AR by androgen ablation therapy and by applying synthetic anti-androgens is therefore the primary goal in treatment of patients. Here, we show that atraric acid (AA) isolated from bark material of Pygeum africanum has anti-androgenic activity, inhibiting the transactivation mediated by the ligand-activated human AR. This androgen antagonistic activity is receptor specific and does not inhibit the closely related glucocorticoid or progesterone receptors. Mechanistically, AA inhibits nuclear transport of AR. Importantly, AA is able to efficiently repress the growth of both the androgen-dependent LNCaP and also the androgen-independent C4-2 Pca cells but not that of PC3 or CV1 cells lacking AR. In line with this, AA inhibits the expression of the endogenous prostate specific antigen gene in both LNCaP und C4-2 cells. Analyses of cell invasion revealed that AA inhibits the invasiveness of LNCaP cells through extracellular matrix. Thus, this study provides a molecular insight for AA as a natural anti-androgenic compound and may serve as a basis for AA derivatives as a new chemical lead structure for novel therapeutic compounds as AR antagonists, that can be used for prophylaxis or treatment of prostatic diseases.

Folinic acid modulated bolus 5-FU or infusional 5-FU for adjuvant treatment of patients of UICC stage III colon cancer: Preliminary analysis of the PETACC-2-study

3563

Background: Patients with stage III colon cancer have a high risk for recurrence. Infusional 5-FU may be more active than bolus application. Methods: From 01/1997 to 03/2004 a total of 1601 patients with UICC stage III colon cancer were randomized to receive the Mayo-Clinic regimen or infusional 5-FU either the weekly high dose AIO regimen, the bi-weekly LV5FU2 regimen or the Spanish weekly high dose TTD-regime. The major aim of this study was to demonstrate a difference of 7 % in the 5 year survival rate in favour of the infusional arm for which a total of 424 events were required. Results: After a median follow-up of 31 months 478 events have occurred. 804 patients received the standard arm and 797 the experimental arm (AIO N=331, EORTC N=92, FFCD N=211, TTD N=163). The median age was 64 years; patients were well distributed according to TNM-category (T3 73 vs. 75%, T4 17 vs. 16%, N2 31 vs. 34%), vascular and lymphatic invasion and grading. The bolus regimen induced a higher rate of grade 3 or 4 leukopenia (7.1% versus 2.0%), stomatitis grade 3 or 4 (9.8% versus 3.3%) or diarrhea grade 3 or 4 (16% vs. 15%). Hand-Foot-Syndrome was more frequent in the experimental arm (4.4% versus 0.4%). There was no difference in the recurrence free survival at 5 years (57% versus 56%; hazard ratio 1.00, 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.21; P=0.9) or overall survival at 5 years 71% versus 72%; hazard ratio 0.91, 95% CI, 0.71 to 1.16; P=0.44). Conclusions: Infusional 5-FU does not improve RFS or overall survival of stage III colon cancer compared to the Mayo regimen but is less toxic. Supported by Deutsche Krebshilfe

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Irinotecan in first line therapy of elderly and non-elderly patients with metastatic colorectal cancer: Meta-analysis of four trials investigating 5-FU and irinotecan

3578

Background: Irinotecan has been shown to improve response rate and progression free survival in three randomized studies. In a recent metaanalysis showed that elderly patients have a similar benefit from 5-FU containing palliative treatment as younger patients (Folprecht 2004). Methods: We performed a metaanalysis of three randomized trials investigating 5-FU/FA/irinotecan vs. 5-FU/FA (Saltz 2000, Douillard 2000, Köhne 2005 [EORTC 40986]), and one phase II trial with 5-FU/irinotecan (Sastre 2005) to explore the efficacy and toxicity in elderly (≥70 years) and non-elderly (< 70 years) patients. Only data from randomized trials were used to compare the treatment arms 5-FU/FA plus irinotecan (IFL, FOLFIRI or Irinotecan/AIO) vs. 5-FU/FA (Mayo clinic regimen, LV5FU2 or AIO). Results: In total, 303 patients ≥70 y. and 1181 patients < 70 y were analyzed. Overall response rate was 39.5% in elderly and 33.1% in non-elderly patients (p=.055). Progression free survival was 6.7 (5.6–7.8) and 5.7 (5.2–6.1) months in elderly and younger patients (p=.12), respectively, overall survival 15.9 (13.6–18.3) vs. 15.4 (14.3–16.5) months (p=.9). Neutropenia gr. 3/4 and stomatitis gr. 3/4 was found to be more frequent in elderly patients. No differences were found in the other toxicities. Conclusion: The analysis confirms that neutropenia and stomatitis is moderately increased in elderly patients. However elderly patients benefit from treatment with irinotecan/5-FU in a similar way as younger patients do, and (fit) elderly should be offered the irinotecan-containing therapy in the same way as younger patients.

[Table: see text]

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Effect of triamcinolone acetonide on proliferation of retinal endothelial cells in vitro and in vivo

AIM

To assess the effect of crystalline triamcinolone acetonide on retinal endothelial cell proliferation in vivo and in vitro.

METHODS

For in vitro analysis, a sprouting assay was employed. Bovine retinal endothelial cells were stimulated with basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and incubated with different concentrations of triamcinolone acetonide (0.05 mg/ml to 8 mg/ml). For in vivo analysis, a retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) model was used. 16 C57BL/J6 mice were exposed to 75% oxygen from postnatal day 7 to day 12. On day 12, triamcinolone acetonide was intravitreally injected into one eye ("study eye") and isotonic saline into the contralateral eye ("control eye"). On day 17, the mice were sacrificed and the eyes removed for quantitative analysis of preretinal neovascularisation. Four non-exposed mice served as negative control.

RESULTS

The sprouting assay demonstrated a dose dependent inhibition of bovine retinal endothelial cell proliferation from 0.05 mg triamcinolone acetonide/ml (no inhibition) to 3 mg triamcinolone acetonide/ml (complete inhibition). Dosages of more than 2 mg/ml resulted in cytotoxic changes of endothelial cells. The ROP model demonstrated a significantly lower neovascular cell count of 58% in the study group compared to the control group (6.35 (SD 2.1) cells per histological section versus 14.9 (SD 5.3) cells; p<0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Triamcinolone acetonide inhibits bFGF induced proliferation of retinal endothelial cells in vivo and in vitro. These findings contribute to understanding the mode of action and effects of triamcinolone acetonide on retinal neovascularisation.

PB1-F2, an influenza A virus-encoded proapoptotic mitochondrial protein, creates variably sized pores in planar lipid membranes

A frameshifted region of the influenza A virus PB1 gene encodes a novel protein, termed PB1-F2, a mitochondrial protein that can induce cell death. Many proapoptotic proteins are believed to act at the mitochondrial outer membrane to form an apoptotic pore with lipids. We studied the interaction of isolated, synthetic PB1-F2 (sPB1-F2) peptide with planar phospholipid bilayer membranes. The presence of nanomolar concentrations of peptide in the bathing solution induced a transmembrane conductance that increased in a potential-dependent manner. Positive potential on the side of protein addition resulted in a severalfold increase in the rate of change of membrane conductance. sPB1-F2-treated membranes became permeable to monovalent cations, chloride, and to a lesser extent, divalent ions. Despite various experimental conditions, we did not detect the distinctive conductance levels typical of large, stable pores, protein channels, or even pores that are partially proteinaceous. Rather, membrane conductance induced by sPB1-F2 fluctuated and visited almost all conductance values. sPB1-F2 also dramatically decreased bilayer stability in an electric field, consistent with a decrease in the line tension of a lipidic pore. Since similar membrane-destabilizing profiles are seen with proapoptotic proteins (e.g., Bax) and the cytoplasmic helix of human immunodeficiency virus gp41, we suggest that the basis for sPB1-F2-induced cell death may be the permeabilization and destabilization of mitochondrial membranes, leading to macromolecular leakage and apoptosis.

A novel influenza A virus mitochondrial protein that induces cell death

While searching for alternative reading-frame peptides encoded by influenza A virus that are recognized by CD8+ T cells, we found an abundant immunogenic peptide encoded by the +1 reading frame of PB1. This peptide derives from a novel conserved 87-residue protein, PB1-F2, which has several unusual features compared with other influenza gene products in addition to its mode of translation. These include its absence from some animal (particularly swine) influenza virus isolates, variable expression in individual infected cells, rapid proteasome-dependent degradation and mitochondrial localization. Exposure of cells to a synthetic version of PB1-F2 induces apoptosis, and influenza viruses with targeted mutations that interfere with PB1-F2 expression induce less extensive apoptosis in human monocytic cells than those with intact PB1-F2. We propose that PB1-F2 functions to kill host immune cells responding to influenza virus infection.

CrossLaps and beta-glucuronidase in peri-implant and gingival crevicular fluid

Collagen degradation products of the carboxyterminal region possibly reflect bone and attachment loss. In the present study, the Serum CrossLaps One-Step enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to determine a specific part of the carboxyterminal region of type I collagen, the CrossLaps. Samples of peri-implant and gingival crevicular fluid of 111 implants and 53 teeth from 47 partially or completely edentulous patients were examined in reference to levels of CrossLaps and beta-glucuronidase (beta G), an established marker of periodontal disease. Clinical probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), plaque accumulation, mobility, radiographic bone loss, and the occurrence of Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Prevotella intermedia were assessed. The mean values were: for PPD at implants 3.76 +/- 1.41 mm, at teeth 3.44 +/- 0.88 mm; for beta G at implants 0.364 +/- 0.392 pU/min, at teeth 0.314 +/- 0.209 pU/min; for CrossLaps at implants 0.069 +/- 0.059 pmol/min, at teeth 0.082 +/- 0.053 pmol/min. Bleeding on probing was significantly higher on implants than on teeth (McNemar test, P = .004). No significant difference of beta G levels was found between teeth and implants (Wilcoxon test). A negative correlation was found between beta G levels and CrossLaps levels at teeth (Pearson-rank correlation, P = .002). On implants, no significant correlation of these 2 parameters was seen, but significant correlations were found between sulcus fluid flow rate and PPD (P = .012), beta G levels and bone loss (P < 0.0005), and CrossLaps levels and PPD (P = .011). CrossLaps can be detected in both gingival and peri-implant crevicular fluid. While rising levels of beta G may indicate acute peri-implantitis, CrossLaps may not, but could play a role as a marker of ongoing attachment loss.

At the crossroads of cell biology and immunology: DRiPs and other sources of peptide ligands for MHC class I molecules

CD8(+) T cells are a critical element of vertebrate immune responses to viruses and other intracellular parasites. They roam the body, monitoring cells for the presence of foreign peptides associated with MHC class I molecules of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC). Although it is clear that most of these peptides are generated through the action of proteasomes, the nature of the substrates degraded by proteasomes is an open question. Recent findings indicate that the major pool of substrates consists of a heterogeneous subset of proteins that are degraded within minutes of their synthesis. Evidence suggests that the fraction of newly synthesized proteins targeted for destruction is remarkably high - 30% or more, depending on cell type - possibly because they are defective in some way and cannot reach their intended conformation or location cellular in a time frame deemed appropriate by cells.

Cells adapted to the proteasome inhibitor 4-hydroxy- 5-iodo-3-nitrophenylacetyl-Leu-Leu-leucinal-vinyl sulfone require enzymatically active proteasomes for continued survival

The proteasome is the primary protease used by cells for degrading proteins and generating peptide ligands for class I molecules of the major histocompatibility complex. Based on the properties of cells adapted to grow in the presence of the proteasome inhibitor 4-hydroxy-5-iodo-3-nitrophenylacetyl-Leu-Leu-leucinal-vinyl sulfone (NLVS), it was proposed that proteasomes can be replaced by alternative proteolytic systems, particularly a large proteolytic complex with a tripeptidyl peptidase II activity. Here we show that NLVS-adapted cells retain sensitivity to a number of highly specific proteasome inhibitors with regard to antigenic peptide generation, accumulation of polyubiquitinated proteins, degradation of p53, and cell viability. In addition, we show that in the same assays (with a single minor exception), NLVS-adapted cells are about as sensitive as nonselected cells to Ala-Ala-Phe-chloromethylketone, a specific inhibitor of tripeptidyl peptidase II activity. Based on these findings, we conclude that proteasomes still have essential proteolytic functions in adapted cells that are not replaced by Ala-Ala-Phe-chloromethylketone-sensitive proteases.

Ubiquitination of HIV-1 and MuLV Gag

Our previous biochemical studies of HIV-1 and MuLV virions isolated and identified mature Gag products, HIV-1 p6(Gag) and MuLV p12(Gag), that were conjugated to a single ubiquitin. To study the importance of the monoubiquitination of Gag, a series of lysine to arginine mutants were constructed that eliminated ubiquitination at one or both of the lysines in HIV-1(NL4-3) p6(Gag) and both lysines in Moloney MuLV p12(Gag). HPLC and immunoblot analysis of the HIV-1 mutants demonstrated that either of the lysines in p6(Gag), K27 or K33, could be monoubiquitinated. However, infectivity assays showed that monoubiquitination of HIV-1 p6(Gag) or MuLV p12(Gag) is not required for viral replication in vitro. Pulse-chase radiolabeling of HIV-1-producing cells revealed that monoubiquitination of p6(Gag) does not affect the short-term release of virus from the cell, the maturation of Pr55(Gag), or the sensitivity of these processes to proteasome inhibitors. Experiments with protease-deficient HIV-1 showed that Pr55(Gag) can be monoubiquitinated, suggesting that p6(Gag) is first modified as a domain within Gag. Examination of the proteins inside an HIV-1 mutant found that free ubiquitin was incorporated into the virions in the absence of the lysines in p6(Gag), showing that the ubiquitin inside the virus is not initially brought in as a p6(Gag) conjugate. Although our results establish that monoubiquitination of p6(Gag) and p12(Gag) is not required for viral replication in vitro, this modification may be a by-product of interactions between Gag and cellular proteins during assembly and budding.

Novel metal-to-metal silyl-migration reactions in heterometallic complexes

An unprecedented, intramolecular metal-to-metal silyl ligand migration reaction has been discovered in a series of phosphido-bridged iron-platinum complexes and which may be triggered by an external nucleophile. Thus, reaction of solutions of [(OC)3-(R1/3Si)Fe(mu-PR2R3)Pt(1,5-COD) (1a R1 = OMe, R2 = 3 = Ph; 1b R1 = OMe, R2 = R3 = Cy; 1c R1 = Ph, R2 = R3 = Ph; 1d R1 = Ph, R2 = R3 = Cy; 1e R1 = Ph, R1 = H, R3 = Ph) in CH2Cl2 with CO rapidly afforded the corresponding complexes [(OC)4Fe(mu-PR2R3)Pt(SiR1/3)-(CO)] (2a-e) in which the silyl ligand has migrated from Fe to Pt, while two CO ligands have been ligated, one on each metal. When 1a or 1c was slowly treated with two equivalents of tBuNC at low temperature, quantitative displacement of the COD ligand was accompagnied by silyl migration from Fe to Pt and coordination of an isonitrile ligand to Fe and to Pt to give [(OC)3-(tBuNC)Fe(mu-PPh2)Pt[Si(OMe)3](CNtBu)] (3a) and [(OC)3(tBuNC)-Fe(mu-PPh2)Pt[SiPh3](CNtBu)] (3c). Reaction of 2a with one equivalent of tBuNC selectively led to substitution of the Pt-bound CO to give [(OC)4-Fe(mu-PCy2)Pt[Si(OMe)3](CNtBu)] (4b), which reacted with a second equivalent of tBuNC to give [(OC)4Fe(mu-PCy2)-Pt[Si(OMe)3](CNtBu)2] (5b) in which the metal-metal bond has been cleaved. Opening of the Fe-Pt bond was also observed upon reaction of 3a with tBuNC to give [(OC)3(tBuNC)-Fe(mu-PPh2)Pt[Si(OMe)3](CNtBu)2] (6). The silyl ligand migrates from Fe, in which it is trans to mu-PR2R3 in all the metal-metal-bonded complexes, to a position cis to the phosphido bridge on Pt. However, in 5a,b and 6 with no metal-metal bond, the Pt-bound silyl ligand is trans to the phosphido bridge. The intramolecular nature of the silyl migration, which may be formally viewed as a redox reaction, was established by a cross-over experiment consisting of the reaction of 1a and 1d with CO; this yielded exclusively 2a and 2d. The course of the silyl-migration reaction was found to depend a) on the steric properties of the -SiR1/3 ligand, and for a given mu-PR2R3 bridge (R2 = R3 = Ph), the migration rate decreases in the sequence Si(OMe)3> SiMe2Ph> SiMePh2>>SiPh3; b) on the phosphido bridge and for a given silyl ligand (R1 = OMe), the migration rate decreases in the order mu-PPh2 >> mu-PHCy; c) on the external nucleophile since reaction of 1c with two equivalents of P(OMe)3, P(OPh)3 or Ph2PCH2C(O)Ph led solely to displacement of the COD ligand with formation of 11a-c, respectively, whereas reaction with two equivalents of tBuNC gave the product of silyl migration 3c. Reaction of [(OC)3-[(MeO)3Si]Fe(mu-PPh2)Pt(PPh3)2] (7a) with tBuNC (even in slight excess) occurred stereoselectively with replacement of the PPh3 ligand trans to mu-PPh2, whereas reaction with CO led first to [(OC)3((MeO)3Si)Fe(mu-PPh2)Pt(CO)-(PPh3)] (8a), which then isomerized to the migration product [(OC)4Fe(mu-PPh2)Pt[Si(OMe)3](PPh3)] (9a). Most complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, IR and 1H, 31P, 13C, and 29Si NMR spectroscopy, and in five cases by X-ray diffraction.

Proteasome inhibition interferes with gag polyprotein processing, release, and maturation of HIV-1 and HIV-2

Retrovirus assembly and maturation involve folding and transport of viral proteins to the virus assembly site followed by subsequent proteolytic cleavage of the Gag polyprotein within the nascent virion. We report that inhibiting proteasomes severely decreases the budding, maturation, and infectivity of HIV. Although processing of the Env glycoproteins is not changed, proteasome inhibitors inhibit processing of Gag polyprotein by the viral protease without affecting the activity of the HIV-1 viral protease itself, as demonstrated by in vitro processing of HIV-1 Gag polyprotein Pr55. Furthermore, this effect occurs independently of the virus release function of the HIV-1 accessory protein Vpu and is not limited to HIV-1, as proteasome inhibitors also reduce virus release and Gag processing of HIV-2. Electron microscopy analysis revealed ultrastructural changes in budding virions similar to mutants in the late assembly domain of p6(gag), a C-terminal domain of Pr55 required for efficient virus maturation and release. Proteasome inhibition reduced the level of free ubiquitin in HIV-1-infected cells and prevented monoubiquitination of p6(gag). Consistent with this, viruses with mutations in PR or p6(gag) were resistant to detrimental effects mediated by proteasome inhibitors. These results indicate the requirement for an active proteasome/ubiquitin system in release and maturation of infectious HIV particles and provide a potential pharmaceutical strategy for interfering with retrovirus replication.

Functional and structural characterization of synthetic HIV-1 Vpr that transduces cells, localizes to the nucleus, and induces G2 cell cycle arrest

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) Vpr contributes to nuclear import of the viral pre-integration complex and induces G(2) cell cycle arrest. We describe the production of synthetic Vpr that permitted the first studies on the structure and folding of the full-length protein. Vpr is unstructured at neutral pH, whereas under acidic conditions or upon addition of trifluorethanol it adopts alpha-helical structures. Vpr forms dimers in aqueous trifluorethanol, whereas oligomers exist in pure water. (1)H NMR spectroscopy allows the signal assignment of N- and C-terminal amino acid residues; however, the central section of the molecule is obscured by self-association. These findings suggest that the in vivo folding of Vpr may require structure-stabilizing interacting factors such as previously described interacting cellular and viral proteins or nucleic acids. In biological studies we found that Vpr is efficiently taken up from the extracellular medium by cells in a process that occurs independent of other HIV-1 proteins and appears to be independent of cellular receptors. Following cellular uptake, Vpr is efficiently imported into the nucleus of transduced cells. Extracellular addition of Vpr induces G(2) cell cycle arrest in dividing cells. Together, these findings raise the possibility that circulating forms of Vpr observed in HIV-infected patients may exert biological effects on a broad range of host target cells.

Membrane interactions and alignment of structures within the HIV-1 Vpu cytoplasmic domain: effect of phosphorylation of serines 52 and 56

The cytoplasmic domain of the HIV-1 accessory protein Vpu is involved in the binding and degradation of the viral receptor CD4. In order to analyze previous structural models in the context of membrane environments, regions of Vpu(CYTO) incorporating particular conformational features have been synthesized and labelled with (15)N at selected backbone amides. Well-oriented proton-decoupled (15)N solid-state NMR spectra with (15)N chemical shifts at the most upfield position indicate that the amphipathic helix within [(15)N-Leu 45]-Vpu(27-57) strongly interacts with mechanically aligned POPC bilayers and adopts an orientation parallel to the membrane surface. No major changes in the topology of this membrane-associated amphipathic helix were observed upon phosphorylation of serine residues 52 and 56, although this modification regulates biological function of Vpu. In contrast, [(15)N-Ala 62]-Vpu(51-81) exhibits a pronounced (15)N chemical shift anisotropy.

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Vpr protein is incorporated into the virion in significantly smaller amounts than gag and is phosphorylated in infected cells

Viral protein R (Vpr) of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is a small accessory protein involved in the nuclear import of viral DNA and the growth arrest of host cells. Several studies have demonstrated that a significant amount of Vpr is incorporated into the virus particle via interaction with the p6 domain of Gag, and it is generally assumed that Vpr is packaged in equimolar ratio to Gag. We have quantitated the relative amount of Vpr in purified virions following [(35)S]cysteine labeling of infected MT-4 cells, as well as by quantitative immunoblotting and found that Vpr is present in a molar ratio of approximately 1:7 compared to capsid. Analysis of isolated core particles showed that Vpr is associated with the mature viral core, despite quantitative loss of p6 from core preparations. Metabolic labeling of infected cells with ortho[(32)P]phosphate revealed that a small fraction of Vpr is phosphorylated in virions and infected cells.

Rapid degradation of a large fraction of newly synthesized proteins by proteasomes

MHC class I molecules function to present peptides eight to ten residues long to the immune system. These peptides originate primarily from a cytosolic pool of proteins through the actions of proteasomes, and are transported into the endoplasmic reticulum, where they assemble with nascent class I molecules. Most peptides are generated from proteins that are apparently metabolically stable. To explain this, we previously proposed that peptides arise from proteasomal degradation of defective ribosomal products (DRiPs). DRiPs are polypeptides that never attain native structure owing to errors in translation or post-translational processes necessary for proper protein folding. Here we show, first, that DRiPs constitute upwards of 30% of newly synthesized proteins as determined in a variety of cell types; second, that at least some DRiPs represent ubiquitinated proteins; and last, that ubiquitinated DRiPs are formed from human immunodeficiency virus Gag polyprotein, a long-lived viral protein that serves as a source of antigenic peptides.

Generating MHC class I ligands from viral gene products

MHC class I molecules function to present peptides comprised of eight to 11 residues to CD8+ T lymphocytes. Here we review the efforts of our laboratory to understand how cells generate such peptides from viral gene products. We particularly focus on the nature of substrates acted on by cytosolic proteases, the contribution of proteasomes and non-proteasomal proteases to peptide generation, the involvement of ubiquitination in peptide generation, the intracellular localization of proteasome generation of antigenic peptides, and the trimming of peptides in the endoplasmic reticulum.

Cyclophilin A incorporation is not required for human immunodeficiency virus type 1 particle maturation and does not destabilize the mature capsid

The cellular protein cyclophilin A (CypA) is packaged into human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) virions through a specific interaction with the capsid (CA) domain of the Gag polyprotein. CypA is important for infectivity, but its role in viral replication is currently unknown. Previous reports suggested that CypA promotes uncoating or enhances maturation. We analyzed the morphology and capsid stability of HIV-1 variants defective in CypA binding and of virus grown in the presence of cyclosporin. Both cyclosporin treatment and alteration of Gly89 or Pro90 in the CypA-binding site of CA caused a 5- to 20-fold decrease in CypA incorporation. Virus produced from cyclosporin-treated cells and variants G89V and G89A were 10- to 100-fold less infectious but exhibited normal virion morphologies with regular cone-shaped capsids. Irregular capsid morphologies and lower infectivities were observed for some other variants in the CypA-binding region. Decreased CypA incorporation did not reduce the kinetics of intracellular polyprotein processing or of virus release. No increase in immature particles was observed. These results suggest that CypA does not promote virion maturation. Furthermore, detergent stripping of virus particles with various CypA contents revealed no difference in capsid stability. Based on these results and those reported in the accompanying paper, it appears likely that CypA also is not an uncoating factor. Alternative models for CypA function are discussed.

Solution structure and orientation of the transmembrane anchor domain of the HIV-1-encoded virus protein U by high-resolution and solid-state NMR spectroscopy

The structure of the membrane anchor domain (VpuMA) of the HIV-1-specific accessory protein Vpu has been investigated in solution and in lipid bilayers by homonuclear two-dimensional and solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, respectively. Simulated annealing calculations, using the nuclear Overhauser enhancement data for the soluble synthetic peptide Vpu1-39 (positions Met-1-Asp-39) in an aqueous 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol (TFE) solution, afford a compact well-defined U-shaped structure comprised of an initial turn (residues 1-6) followed by a linker (7-9) and a short helix on the N-terminal side (10-16) and a further longer helix on the C-terminal side (22-36). The side chains of the two aromatic residues (Trp-22 and Tyr-29) in the longer helix are directed toward the center of the molecule around which the hydrophobic core of the folded VpuMA is positioned. As the observed solution structure is inconsistent with the formation of ion-conductive membrane pores defined previously for VpuMA in planar lipid bilayers, the isolated VpuMA domain as peptide Vpu1-27 was investigated in oriented phospholipid bilayers by proton-decoupled 15N cross polarization solid-state NMR spectroscopy. The line widths and chemical shift data of three selectively 15N-labeled peptides are consistent with a transmembrane alignment of a helical polypeptide. Chemical shift tensor calculations imply that the data sets are compatible with a model in which the nascent helices of the folded solution structure reassemble to form a more regular linear alpha-helix that lies parallel to the bilayer normal with a tilt angle of </=30 degrees. The arrangement of the membrane-associated structures described previously for the cytoplasmic domain and for the anchor domain of Vpu identified in this work is discussed.

Crystallization and X-ray diffraction data of a tRNASec acceptor-stem helix

tRNASec is a UGA suppressor tRNA which co-translationally inserts selenocysteine into proteins. Its eight-base-pair tRNASec acceptor stem, which contains key recognition elements, was synthesized using solid-phase phosphoramidite RNA chemistry. High-resolution X-ray diffraction data were collected using synchrotron radiation under cryogenic cooling conditions. The crystals diffract to a maximal resolution of 1.8 A. X-ray diffraction data were processed to 2.4 A. tRNASec microhelix crystallizes in space group R32, with cell constants a = 47.02, b = 47.02, c = 373.03 A, alpha = beta = 90, gamma = 120 degrees. The crystals contain three RNA molecules per asymmetric unit.

Regulation of virus release by the macrophage-tropic human immunodeficiency virus type 1 AD8 isolate is redundant and can be controlled by either Vpu or Env

The human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Vpu and Env proteins are expressed from a bicistronic mRNA. To address the biological significance of the coordinated expression of vpu and env, we compared the relative effects on particle release of HIV-1 isolates containing an intact vpu gene or carrying point mutations in its initiation codon or internal deletions, respectively. We found that the primary AD8 isolate, which is unable to express vpu due to a mutation in its translation initiation codon, was able to replicate in primary macrophages and peripheral blood mononuclear cells with efficiency similar to that of an isogenic variant expressing Vpu. Interestingly, AD8 lacking a vpu initiation codon produced higher levels of Env protein than its Vpu-expressing isogenic variant. In contrast, disabling Vpu without removing the vpu initiation codon did not alter Env expression but significantly reduced virus production. AD8 Env when provided in trans was capable of enhancing release not only of AD8 particles but also of viruses of the T-cell-tropic NL4-3 isolate. We conclude that AD8 Env encodes a Vpu-like activity similar to that previously reported for HIV-2 Env proteins and is thus able to augment virus secretion. When expressed at elevated levels, i.e., following mutation of the vpu initiation codon, AD8 Env was able to compensate for the lack of Vpu and thereby ensure efficient virus release. Thus, the ability to regulate virus release is redundant in AD8 and can be controlled by either Vpu or Env. Since Vpu controls several independent functions, including CD4 degradation, our results suggest that some HIV-1 isolates may have evolved a mechanism to regulate Vpu activity without compromising their ability to efficiently replicate in the host cells.

Safety and toxicity of amphotericin B in glucose 5% or intralipid 20% in neutropenic patients with pneumonia or fever of unknown origin: randomised study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the feasibility of treatment, safety, and toxicity of intravenous amphotericin B deoxycholate prepared in either glucose or intralipid for empirical antimycotic treatment of neutropenic cancer patients.

DESIGN

Single centre stratified, randomised non-blinded phase II study.

SETTING

University hospital providing tertiary clinical care.

SUBJECTS

51 neutropenic patients (leukaemia (35), lymphoma (11), solid tumours (5)) with refractory fever of unknown origin (24) or pneumonia (27).

INTERVENTIONS

Amphotericin B 0.75 mg/kg/day in 250 ml glucose 5% solution or mixed with 250 ml intralipid 20%, given on eight consecutive days then alternate days, as a 1-4 hour infusion.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Feasibility of treatment, subjective tolerance (questionnaire), and objective toxicity (common toxicity criteria of the National Cancer Institute).

RESULTS

Study arms were balanced for age, sex, underlying malignancy, renal and liver function, and pre- and concomitant treatment with antibiotics and nephrotoxic agents. No statistically significant or clinically relevant differences were found between the treatment groups for: daily or cumulative dose and duration of treatment with amphotericin B; incidence and time of dose modifications or infusion duration changes related to toxicity; dose or duration of symptomatic support with opiates, antipyretics, or antihistamines; renal function; subjective tolerance; most common toxicity scores; course of infection; and incidence of treatment failures. Patients treated with amphotericin B in intralipid were given fewer diuretics (P<0.05) and therefore had more peripheral oedema (P<0.01) and needed less potassium supplementation (P<0.05) than patients given amphotericin in glucose. Acute respiratory events were more common in the intralipid arm (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Amphotericin B 0.75 mg/kg/day in intralipid given on eight consecutive days then alternate days provides no benefit and is associated with potential pulmonary side effects possibly because of fat overload or an incompatibility of the two drugs.