[The role of the ubiquitin proteasome system and PP2A in spermatogenesis]

The ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) plays an important role in cell degradation, and is involved in many biological processes such as cell cycle regulation, immune response, DNA damage repair, and signal transduction. It also acts a crucial part in spermatogenesis by selectively degrading proteins and regulating such processes as DNA repair and protamine histone replacement. PP2A, as an essential serine/threonine phosphatase, participates in a variety of life activities. Studies have shown the involvement of UPS in the ubiquitination regulation of PP2A and that of PP2A in several stages of meiosis. This review updates the roles of UPS and PP2A in spermatogenesis.

[Transcriptomic analysis of tuberculosis peptide-based vaccine MP3RT in humanized mice]

Objective: To identify the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) induced by tuberculosis peptide-based vaccine MP3RT in a humanized mouse model using transcriptomics technology. Methods: This study was conducted from August 2019 to February 2022. We used edgeR software to screen DEGs with a fold change greater than or equal to 1.5 and a P value less than 0.05 as screening conditions. Gene ontology (GO), Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG), and protein interaction network analyses were performed on the screened DEGs. Then, these DEGs were verified by RT-qPCR and statistically analyzed by GraphPad Prism 8 software. Results: A total of 367 DEGs (214 up-regulated and 153 down-regulated) were identified by transcriptomics. Bioinformatics analysis showed that the GO enrichment of the DEGs mentioned above significantly focused on cell metabolism, growth, apoptosis, inflammation, and other terms. In contrast, the KEGG enrichment significantly focused on inflammatory pathways such as the MAPK signaling pathway. Protein interaction network analysis showed that protein Abl1 had the highest aggregation, the highest aggregation coefficient, and the best connectivity. RT-qPCR results showed that gene expressions of cpne4 (t=2.48, P=0.048 0), h2-q10 (t=2.95, P=0.025 6), mef2c (t=2.87, P=0.028 4), cr2 (t=3.23, P=0.178), ablim1 (t=2.91, P=0.033 5), dll1 (t=2.70, P=0.027 3) and ms4a2 (t=3.03, P=0.019 2) genes in the MP3RT group were significantly up-regulated than those in the PBS group, while gene expressions of cd163l1 (t=2.56, P=0.043 0), il1r1 (t=2.91, P=0.022 7) and cd34 (t=2.42, P=0.046 2) genes in the MP3RT group were significantly down-regulated than those in the PBS group. Conclusions: The MP3RT vaccine induced 367 DEGs in humanized mice, which were associated with metabolic and immune responses. Furthermore, we found that p38 MAPK and JNK/MAPK signaling pathways played an important role in the molecular mechanism of the MP3RT vaccine.

[Biosafety in andrology laboratories during the outbreak of COVID-19]

The novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) broke out in December 2019 and has been rapidly escalating throughout the world. Clinical findings show that the patients with either symptomatic or asymptomatic COVID-19 can be a potential source of infection. Although respiratory droplets and close contact are considered to be the main routes of transmission, there is the possibility of aerosol transmission in a relatively closed environment. The nucleic acid of the novel coronavirus can be detected in nasopharyngeal swabs, sputum and other lower respiratory tract secretions, blood, feces, urine and so on, but whether it exists in the semen has not been confirmed. It is reported that the novel coronavirus may affect the testis that highly expresses angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and theoretically the semen is a possible carrier of the virus considering the fact that it is discharged from the same channel as the urine. Andrology laboratorians are exposed to most of the specimens above, including semen, and some open operations in the laboratory increase the risk of aerosol generation. Therefore, corresponding protective procedures are necessitated in andrology laboratories to reduce the risk of infection during the outbreak of COVID-19. Based on the knowledge and experience available as regards the pandemic and the characteristics of the work in the andrology laboratory, we summarize some biosafety points for andrology laboratorians to attend to during the outbreak of COVID-19.

The Efficacy of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for Children With Tourette Syndrome: A Preliminary Study

Therapies for Tourette syndrome (TS) are insufficient, and novel therapies are needed. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been a potential therapy for several neurological diseases. Here, we report a preliminary study to investigate the effects of FMT on patients with TS. Five patients with TS received a single administration of FMT via endoscopy. Tic symptoms were assessed by Yale Global Tic Severity Scale-Total Tic Score (YGTSS-TTS) and adverse effects were recorded at week 8 following FMT. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels and 14 cytokines levels were measured. The microbiota profile in feces were analyzed by shotgun metagenomics. Four patients (4/5) responded positively to FMT (YGTSS-TTS reduction rate >25%) at week 8 with high safety. The levels of LPS and cytokines varied after FMT. FMT shifted the composition of the gut microbiota in patients close to that of the donor and continuously changed the abundance of Bacteroides coprocola, Dialister succinatiphilus and Bacteroides vulgatus. The restoration of B.coprocola was correlated with the improvement in tic symptoms (Spearman R = -0.900, P = 0.037). In conclusion, FMT was indicated a potential effective and safe alternative for patients with TS. However, larger clinical trials are needed to confirm the influence of microbiota in TS. Trial Registration: chictr.org.cn Identifier: ChiCTR-IIR-17011871, URL: http://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=19941.

[Clinical application of Acutegastrointestinal injury grading system assocaited with clinical severity outcome in critically ill patients: a multi-center prospective, observational study]

Objective: To investigate the feasibility of utilizing the current acute gastrointestinal injury(AGI) grading system, and explore the association of severity of AGI grade with clinical outcome in critically ill patients. Methods: The adult patients from 14 general ICUs in Zhejiang Province with an expected admission to ICU for at least 24 h were recruited, and all clinical, laboratory, and survival data were prospectively collected. The AGI grade was daily assessed based on GIsymptoms, feeding details and organ dysfunctionon the first week of admission to ICU.The intra-abdominal pressures(IAP) was measured using AbViser device. Results: Of 550 patients enrolled, mean values for age and APACHE Ⅱ score were (64.9±17.2) years and (19.5±7.4), respectively. 456 patients(82.9%) took mechanical ventilation, and 470 patients were identified for AGI. The distribution of AGI grade on the frist day of ICU admission were 50.6%(Ⅰ grade, n=238), 34.2%(Ⅱ grade, n=161), 12.4%(Ⅲ grade, n=58) and 2.8%(Ⅳ, n=13), respectively, while the distribution of the global AGI grade based on the 7-day AGI assessment of ICU admission were 24.5%(Ⅰ grade, n=115), 49.4%(Ⅱ grade, n=232), 20.6%(Ⅲ grade, n=97) and 5.5%(Ⅳ, n=26), respectively. 28- and 60-day mortality rate was 29.3%(n=161) and 32.5%(n=179), respectively. The patients with AGI had a higher 28-(31.1% vs 18.8%, P=0.025) and 60-day survival rate(34.7% vs 20.0%, P=0.01) than those with non-AGI, and also there were positive correlations between AGI grade and 28- and 60-day mortality(P<0.001). Univariate Cox regression analysis showed that age, the source of medicial admission, diabetes mellitus, coronary heart disease, the use of vasoactive drugs, serum creatinine and lactate, mechanical ventilation, APACHE Ⅱ score, the AGI grade in the first day of ICU admission and feeding intolerance within the first week of ICU stay were significantly(P≤0.02) associated with mortality. In multivariate analysis including all these variables, the source of medical admission(χ(2)=4.34, P=0.04), diabete mellitus(χ(2)=3.96, P=0.05), the use of vasoactive drugs(χ(2)=6.55, P=0.01), serum lactate(χ(2)=4.73, P=0.03), the global AGI grade in the 7-day of ICU admission(χ(2)=7.10, P=0.008), and APACHE Ⅱ score(χ(2)=12.1, P<0.001) remained independent predictors for 60-day mortality.In the further subgroup analysis including 402 patients with 7-day survival, the feeding intolerance within the first week of ICU stay could provide independent and incremental prognostic value of 60-day mortality wtih increased χ(2)value of Cox regression model(χ(2)=52.2 vs 41.9, P=0.007) . Conclusion: The AGI grading system is useful for identifying the severity of gastrointestinal dysfunction, and could be used as a strong predictor of impaired outcome. The results provide evidence to support that feeding intolerance within 7 days of admission to ICU was an independent determinant of mortality.

Initial meconium microbiome in Chinese neonates delivered naturally or by cesarean section

Previous studies have revealed significant differences in microbiome compositions between infants delivered via cesarean section (C-section) and natural vaginal birth. However, the importance of the delivery mode in the first days of life remains unclear. Importantly, this stage is minimally affected by infant feeding. Here, we used a metagenomic sequencing technique to characterize the meconium microbiome from the feces of a Chinese cohort of vaginally and C-section-delivered infants, including in vitro fertilization (IVF) newborns, during the first 24 h after birth. Meconium microbiome diversity was higher in vaginally delivered infants than that in C-section-delivered infants. Propionibacterium species were most abundant in the vaginally delivered infants, whereas the C-section group had high levels of Bacillus licheniformis. The two IVF newborns delivered by C-section harbored microbial communities similar to the vaginal microbiome in terms of taxonomic composition. Metabolic functions of the C-section group suffered more from the influence of the dominant group (B. licheniformis), whereas the vaginal group was more homogeneous, with a metabolism dominated by multi-microbes. Moreover, different modes of delivery affected the antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) prevalence. These findings provide novel information for the development of strategies to guide a healthy mode of delivery and promote the formation of healthy microbiota.

[Association of Ureaplasma urealyticum with the types of antisperm antibody in infertile men]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) infection in infertile men, its influence on routine semen parameters and the distribution of antisperm antibody (AsAb) and its types in infertile patients with UU infection.

METHODS

We detected the positive rate of UU infection, semen parameters, and the distribution of AsAb and its types in 662 infertile men and 25 normal fertile male controls followed by comparison of the obtained data between the two groups of subjects.

RESULTS

The positive rate of UU infection was significantly higher in the infertile men than in the normal controls (52.87% ［350/662］ vs 16.00% ［4/25］, χ2 = 11.68, P <0.05). The semen volume, sperm count, sperm concentration and percentage of progressively motile sperm were remarkably lower in the UU-positive infertile males than in the control group (P <0.05). No statistically significant difference was observed between the UU-positive and UU-negative groups in the positive rates of total AsAb (43.4% vs 36.5%, χ2 = 3.25, P >0.05) and AsAb IgA, IgM and IgG in the seminal plasma, or in the percentages of serum AsAb IgM (16.9% vs 20.5%, χ2 = 1.22, P >0.05) and IgG (32.7% vs 28.9%, χ2 = 0.99, P >0.05) except in that of serum AsAb IgA (23.6% vs 17.0%, χ2 = 4.03, P <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The UU infection rate is high in infertile males, which decreases the semen volume, total sperm count, motile sperm concentration and percentage of progressively motile sperm and increases the positive rate of serum AsAb IgA.

[Morphological characteristics and phenotypic analysis of multiple morphological abnormalities in sperm flagella]

Objective: To analyze the sperm morphological characteristics of multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella (MMAF), and to analyze their common features and subtypes. Methods: Twenty-eight patients with abnormal morphology of flagella were analyzed by semen analysis. The morphological characteristics were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Histological observation of one case of testicular tissue was performed. Results: Of the 28 patients, only 13 patients (46.4%) had motile spermatozoa, 12 of which had a sperm motility rate of <10% and a sperm survival rate of 9.0%-80.0%. Under light and scanning electron microscope, sperm with absent, short, coiled, bent and irregular width flagella or their combinations were observed. Transmission electron microscopy showed structural abnormalities of sperm fibrous sheath, mitochondrial sheath. Loss rate of central microtubule was 41.4%-84.6%. The semen of the 2 patients with the absence or presence of the kinetic protein arm and both the inner and lateral motilin arms missing had no motile spermatozoa. There was no statistically significant difference in the proportion of flagellar malformations between the two groups of patients (without motile sperm vs with motile spermatozoa). Conclusion: MMAF is a kind of sperm flagella specific abnormalities. Initially diagnosis can be carried out using light microscopy. Clear diagnosis could be conduct using transmission electron microscopy, and the central microtubule loss of the sperm could be seen as the main feature of the flagella abnormalities. Through the morphological analysis and research, MMAF could be precisely classified, which provide a strong basis for the diagnosis.

[Sperm chromatin structure assay versus sperm chromatin dispersion test in detecting sperm DNA integrity and correlation of sperm DNA fragmentation with semen parameters]

OBJECTIVE

Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) is widely used to predict male infertility and the methods of detecting SDF are varied. This study aimed to compare two methods of SDF detection and investigate the correlation between SDF and sperm quality.

METHODS

Using sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA) and sperm chromatin dispersion test (SCD), we detected SDF in 108 semen samples collected in the Center of Reproduction and Genetics of Suzhou Municipal Hospital. We compared the results of the two methods and analyzed the correlations of SDF routine semen parameters, sperm morphology and the age of the patients.

RESULTS

A significant consistency was found in the SDF index (DFI) between the two methods (P<0.01). The DFI was correlated negatively with sperm motility, the percentage of progressively motile sperm, and that of morphologically normal sperm (P <0.01), but positively with the teratozoospermia index (P <0.01 in SCSA and P <0.05 in SCD). The DFI measured by SCSA showed a significantly positive correlation with the patients' age (P <0.01), but not that obtained by SCD.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of both SCSA and SCD play an important role in predicting sperm quality. As a clinical index, the DFI has a predictive value for male infertility. However, the results of different detecting methods vary widely, which calls for further studies on their standardization.

[Impact of Mycoplasma and Chlamydia infections on male reproduction]

Infertility can be attributed to reproductive tract infections (RTI), most commonly nongonococcal urethritis, mainly including Mycoplasma and Chlamydia infections, which may directly or indirectly damage spermatozoa and spermatogenic cells. In addition, a series of immune responses caused by such infections are also associated with male infertility. Methods for the clinical detection of these microbial infections are being constantly improved for more specific and precise control over the impact of Mycoplasma and Chlamydia infections on male fertility.

[Study on the kidney impairment and expressions of FGF21 from a rat model of vascular calcification]

Objective: To investigate the injury and pathological changes of kidney in a rat model of aortic vascular calcification and to explore the expressions of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21). Methods: A total of 14 Spraugue Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into two groups: control group and vitamin D3+ nicotine (VDN) group, with 7 rats in each group.The rats in VDN group received vitamin D3 and nicotine to induce vascular calcification.The content of serum creatinine was determined by sarcosine oxidase method.Alkaline phosphatases (ALP) activity was detected by ALP detection kit.The protein levels of FGF21 were measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA). The structure of kidney was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Results: The serum concentration of creatinine in VDN group was significantly higher than control group[(34.00±4.69) vs (27.17±5.38) μmol/L, P<0.05], and the renal pathological changes in VDN group were more apparent. ALP activity in VDN group was significantly higher than that in control group[(62.59±22.62) vs (29.89±11.78) U/g, P<0.05]. Expression of FGF21 in VDN group increased obviously, compared with that in control group[(0.583±0.340) vs (0.207±0.105) ng/mg, P<0.05]. Meanwhile, the elevated levels of FGF21 were positively correlated with up-regulation of ALP in calcified kidneys (r=0.878, P<0.05). Conclusions: Flushing dose of vitamin D3 and nicotine can induce the change of pathology and function of the kidney.Meanwhile, the expression of FGF21 in kidney up-regulated significantly, suggesting that FGF21 may be involved in the occurrence and development of vascular calcification and subsequent kidney injury.

Sensitivity of tissue properties derived from MRgFUS temperature data to input errors and data inclusion criteria: ex vivo study in porcine muscle

This study evaluates the sensitivity of two magnetic resonance-guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thermal property estimation methods to errors in required inputs and different data inclusion criteria. Using ex vivo pork muscle MRgFUS data, sensitivities to required inputs are determined by introducing errors to ultrasound beam locations (r error  =  -2 to 2 mm) and time vectors (t error  =  -2.2 to 2.2 s). In addition, the sensitivity to user-defined data inclusion criteria is evaluated by choosing different spatial (r fit  =  1-10 mm) and temporal (t fit  =  8.8-61.6 s) regions for fitting. Beam location errors resulted in up to 50% change in property estimates with local minima occurring at r error  =  0 and estimate errors less than 10% when r error  <  0.5 mm. Errors in the time vector led to property estimate errors up to 40% and without local minimum, indicating the need to trigger ultrasound sonications with the MR image acquisition. Regarding the selection of data inclusion criteria, property estimates reached stable values (less than 5% change) when r fit  >  2.5  ×  FWHM, and were most accurate with the least variability for longer t fit. Guidelines provided by this study highlight the importance of identifying required inputs and choosing appropriate data inclusion criteria for robust and accurate thermal property estimation. Applying these guidelines will prevent the introduction of biases and avoidable errors when utilizing these property estimation techniques for MRgFUS thermal modeling applications.

A duplication upstream of SOX9 was not positively correlated with the SRY‑negative 46,XX testicular disorder of sex development: A case report and literature review

The 46,XX male disorder of sex development (DSD) is rarely observed in humans. Patients with DSD are all male with testicular tissue differentiation. The mechanism of sex determination and differentiation remains to be elucidated. In the present case report, an 46,XX inv (9) infertile male negative for the sex‑determining region of the Y chromosome (SRY) gene was examined. This infertile male was systemically assessed by semen analysis, serum hormone testing and gonadal biopsy. Formalin‑fixed and paraffin‑embedded gonad tissues were assessed histochemically. The SRY gene was analyzed by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The other 23 specific loci, including the azoospermia factor region on the Y chromosome and the sequence-targeted sites of the SRY‑box 9 (SOX9) gene were analyzed by PCR. The genes RSPO1, DAX1, SOX3, ROCK, DMRT1, SPRY2 and FGF9 were also assessed using sequencing analysis. Affymetrix Cytogenetics Whole Genome 2.7 M Arrays were used for detecting the genomic DNA from the patient and the parents. The patient with the 46,XX inv (9) (p11q13) karyotype exhibited male primary, however, not secondary sexual characteristics. However, the patient's mother with the 46, XX inv (9) karyotype was unaffected. The testicular tissue dysplasia of the patient was confirmed by tissue biopsy and absence of the SRY gene, and the other 23 loci on the Y chromosome were confirmed by FISH and/or PCR. The RSPO1, DAX1, SOX3, ROCK, DMRT1, SPRY2 and FGF9 genes were sequenced and no mutations were detected. A duplication on the 3 M site in the upstream region of SOX9 was identified in the patient as well as in the mother. The patient with the 46,XX testicular DSD and SRY‑negative status was found to be infertile. The duplication on the 3 M site in the upstream region of SOX9 was a polymorphism, which indicated that the change was not a cause of 46,XX male SDS. These clinical, molecular and cytogenetic findings suggested that other unidentified genetic or environmental factors are significant in the regulation of SDS.

Electroacupuncture decreases the urinary bladder pressure in patients with acute gastrointestinal injury

The present study investigates the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) on urinary bladder pressure (UBP) in patients with acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI). Twenty patients with AGI admitted to the First Hospital of Jiaxing intensive care unit from December 2011 to June 2013 were evaluated. Conventional group patients (n = 10) were administered moderate enteral nutritional support, and electroacupuncture group patients (n = 10) were administered enteral nutritional support followed by EA at bilateral Zusanli (ST-36), Shangjuxu (ST-37), Hegu (LI-4), and QuChi (LI-11) acupoints. UBP was then measured every 6 h and the serum creatinine once daily for 7 days. There were no statistically significant patient demographic differences in the study groups (P > 0.05). The initial UBP of both patient groups was ≥12 mmHg. On days 6 and 7, the UBP significantly decreased in the EA group compared to the conventional group (P < 0.05). The serum creatinine concentration on day 7 was significantly lower in the EA group than in the conventional group (P < 0.05). Based on these results, electroacupuncture contributed to gastrointestinal motility recovery in patients with AGI. This procedure may reduce UBP and provide organ-protective effects in AGI patients.

46,XX testicular disorder of sexual development with SRY-negative caused by some unidentified mechanisms: a case report and review of the literature

Background

46,XX testicular disorder of sex development is a rare genetic syndrome, characterized by a complete or partial mismatch between genetic sex and phenotypic sex, which results in infertility because of the absence of the azoospermia factor region in the long arm of Y chromosome.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 14-year-old male with microorchidism and mild bilateral gynecomastia who referred to our hospital because of abnormal gender characteristics. The patient was treated for congenital scrotal type hypospadias at the age of 4 years. Semen analysis indicated azoospermia by centrifugation of ejaculate. Levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone were elevated, while that of testosterone was low and those of estradiol and prolactin were normal. The results of gonadal biopsy showed hyalinization of the seminiferous tubules, but there was no evidence of spermatogenic cells. Karyotype analysis of the patient confirmed 46,XX karyotype and fluorescent in situ hybridization analysis of the sex-determining region Y (SRY) gene was negative. Molecular analysis revealed that the SRY gene and the AZFa, AZFb and AZFc regions were absent. No mutation was detected in the coding region and exon/intron boundaries of the RSPO1, DAX1, SOX9, SOX3, SOX10, ROCK1, and DMRT genes, and no copy number variation in the whole genome sequence was found.

Conclusion

This study adds a new case of SRY-negative 46,XX testicular disorder of sex development and further verifies the view that the absence of major regions from the Y chromosome leads to an incomplete masculine phenotype, abnormal hormone levels and infertility. To date, the mechanisms for induction of testicular tissue in 46,XX SRY-negative patients remain unknown, although other genetic or environmental factors play a significant role in the regulation of sex determination and differentiation.

Genetic diversity and differentiation of the endangered and endemic species Sauvagesia rhodoleuca in China as detected by ISSR analysis

Sauvagesia rhodoleuca (Ochnaceae) is an endangered plant that is endemic to southern China. The levels of genetic variation and patterns of population structure in S. rhodoleuca were investigated using inter-simple sequence repeat markers. Eleven primers were used to amplify DNA samples from 117 individuals, and a total of 92 loci were detected. Our results indicated that genetic diversity was quite low both at the species level (percentage of polymorphic bands (PPB) = 41.30%, Nei's gene diversity (h) = 0.1331, and Shannon information index (I) = 0.2028) and the population level (PPB = 16.30-28.26%, h = 0.0496-0.1012, and I = 0.0756-0.1508). A high level of genetic differentiation among populations was detected based on Nei's genetic diversity analysis (0.4344) and analysis of molecular variance (47.03%). The low genetic diversity within population and high population differentiation of S. rhodoleuca were assumed to result largely from limited gene flow, genetic drift, inbreeding, and clonal growth. Conservation strategies for this endangered species are proposed based on the genetic data.

[Relationship of sperm morphology with the outcomes of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer]

OBJECTIVE

To study the application value of normal sperm morphology on the outcomes of classic in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET).

METHODS

This study included 659 infertile couples admitted to our center for IVF-ET. Based on the percentage of morphologically normal sperm (MNS), we divided the patients into groups A (n = 112, MNS < 2%), B (n = 180, MNS > or = 2 - < 4%), C (n = 74, MNS > or = 4 - < 5%), and D (n = 293, MNS > or = 5%), and compared the rates of fertilization, normal fertilization, embryos obtained, biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, implantation, and live birth among different groups.

RESULTS

The mean fertilization rate was significantly higher in groups C (71.90%) and D (72.89%) than in A (57.97%) and B (63.29%) (P < 0.05), with no remarkable differences either between A and B (P > 0.05) or between C and D (P > 0.05). The normal fertilization rate was also significantly higher in group D (57.16%) than in A (46.52%) and B (50.89%) (both P < 0.05) as well as in C (54.67%) than in A (P < 0.05). The rate of embryos obtained, too, was markedly higher in group D (55.62%) than in B (45.75%) (P < 0.05), but none with remarkable difference from other groups (all P > 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences among the four groups in the rates of biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, implantation, abortion, and live birth (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The rate of MNS had some influence on IVF-ET, and 5% MNS exhibited a higher value than 4% MNS in predicting the outcomes of IVF.

C/EBPα inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma by reducing Notch3/Hes1/p27 cascades

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α is one of the key transcription factors of the hepatocyte nuclear factors family, which plays a critical role in liver cell proliferation and differentiation. However, the role of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α in hepatocarcinogenesis remains to be defined.

METHODS

A recombinant adenovirus carrying the C/EBPα gene was constructed to determine its effect on hepatocarcinogenesis in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that overexpression of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α inhibited the tumourigenicity of Huh7 cells, re-established the expression of certain liver-specific genes and induced G0/G1 arrest. Overexpression of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α significantly suppressed the proliferation of primary hepatocarcinogenesis cells and tumour associated fibroblasts in vitro. Additionally, intratumoural injection of adenovirus carrying the C/EBPα reduced the growth of subcutaneous hepatocarcinogenesis xenografts in nude mice. Systemic administration of adenovirus carrying the C/EBPα resulted in the eradication of orthotopic liver hepatocarcinogenesis nodules in nude mice. Further, up-regulation of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α reduced the expression of Notch3, thereby suppressing Hes1 transactivation activity and leading to decreased p27 expression. Overexpression of Hes1 partially abolished the anti-proliferation effect of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α on Huh7 cells.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that the effect of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α on hepatocarcinogenesis is partially through by reducing Notch3/Hes1/p27 cascades and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α may possess a novel therapeutic potential for human hepatocarcinogenesis.

[The value of histopathologic examination of testis tissue from testicular sperm aspiration]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate histopathologic examination of the testis tissue from testicular sperm aspiration (TESA).

METHODS

We analyzed the results of inverted microscopy and histopathologic examination of 96 samples of testis tissue from TESA, and compared the accuracy of the two methods in detecting sperm in the testis tissue.

RESULTS

Among the 11 cases in which sperm was found by inverted microscopy, 9 were confirmed by histopathologic examination, and among the 57 cases in which sperm was not detected by inverted microscopy, 11 (19.3%) were found with sperm by histopathologic examination. Histopathologically, the cases in which sperm was not found by inverted microscopy included Sertoli-cell-only syndrome (n = 34), maturation arrest (n = 12) and hypospermatogenesis (n = 11).

CONCLUSION

Histopathologic examination may reveal sperm in the TESA testis tissue proved to be sperm-absent by microscopy, and thus offer valuable information for a second testicular sperm retrieval.

First Report of Tomato chlorosis virus in China

In October 2012, a severe yellowing disease was found on greenhouse and plastic house tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) plants in Beijing, China. The disease incidence varied from 5 to 80% in each of six fields across Haidian and Daxing districts. The lower leaves showed symptoms of interveinal chlorosis, leaf brittleness, and limited brown necrotic flecks, similar to symptoms induced by Tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) and Tomato infectious chlorosis virus (TICV) (two members of genus Crinivirus, family Closteroviridae) (4). A large number of whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci) were also observed. Leaf samples were taken from eight symptomatic and two asymptomatic tomato plants in two plastic houses in the Haidian district and total RNA was isolated from the 10 samples using TRIzol reagent (Tiangen, Beijing, China). Nested reverse transcription (RT)-PCR was performed to test the presence of ToCV and TICV with degenerate primers HS-11 and HS-12 and specific primers ToC-5/ToC-6 or TIC-3/TIC-4 for ToCV or TICV, respectively (1). With ToCV primers, a 463-bp specific fragment was amplified from eight symptomatic samples but not from two asymptomatic samples, and there was no amplification with TICV primers from any sample. Sequence analysis of the amplified fragment showed 99% nucleotide sequence identity with the heat shock protein 70 homolog (HSP70h) gene of ToCV isolates from Japan (GenBank Accession No. AB513442), Spain (DQ136146), Florida (AY903448), and Greece (EU284744). The presence of ToCV was confirmed by amplification of a 848-bp fragment covering the coat protein (CP) gene of ToCV with primers CP-F (5'-GAATCTTTTAGAAGCTTTGGTTTAAGG-3') and CP-R (5'-GATCCTCTTGATCCTCATAGATTTC-3') (3). The CP had 97 to 99% amino acid sequence identity to the above-mentioned four ToCV isolates. A sequence of the CP gene obtained from one isolate was deposited at GenBank (KC311375). Additionally, virions were isolated from 25 g of symptomatic samples followed Klaassen's method (2) and their lengths were estimated to be about 800 to 850 nm by transmission electronic microscopy To our knowledge, this is the first report of ToCV on tomato in mainland China. Tomato is one of the most widely cultivated crops in China and the spread of ToCV in China may cause significant economic losses. Further information on the prevalence and incidence of ToCV is required to assess the potential impact of this virus. References: (1) C. I. Dovas et al. Plant Dis. 86:1345, 2002. (2) V. A. Klaassen et al. J. Gen. Virol. 75:1525, 1994. (3) H. Tomoki et al. J. Gen. Plant Pathol. 76:168, 2010. (4) G. C. Wisler et al. Phytopathology 88:402, 1998.

[Susceptibility to prostate cancer in Han Chinese: single nucleotide polymorphism analysis of 1 667 cases]

OBJECTIVE

Prostate cancer (PCa) has the highest incidence among male malignancies in Western industrialized countries and, as a most common malignant disease in urology, its incidence has been increasing in recent years in Chinese men. This study was to investigate the risk loci associated with PCa susceptibility in Han Chinese by analyzing single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP).

METHODS

We collected peripheral blood samples from 1 667 PCa patients and 1 525 healthy men, and detected 40 loci associated with PCa susceptibility by analyzing SNPs using Sequenom technology.

RESULTS

Of the 40 known loci, 16 were confirmed to be significantly associated with PCa susceptibility (P < 0.05). The loci 1, 2 and 5 at 8q24, 10q11 and 22q13.2 also contributed to PCa susceptibility in different ethnic groups.

CONCLUSION

PCa susceptibility is obviously associated with the risk loci rs1465618, rs721048, rs12621278, rs7679673, rs12653946, rs339331, rs1512268, rs10086908, rs16901979, rs1447295, rs10993994, rs10896449, rs902774, rs9600079, rs11649743 and rs5759167 in Chinese Han population.

Absence of SH2B3 mutation in nonobese diabetic mice

Type 1 diabetes is a chronic progressive autoimmune disease characterized by mononuclear cell infiltration, with subsequent destruction of insulin-producing β-cells. Studies have identified strong associations between type 1 diabetes and several chromosome regions, including 12q24. Association between type 1 diabetes and 12q24 arises from SNP rs3184504; rs3184504 is a nonsynonymous SNP in exon 3 of SH2B3 (also known as LNK). Nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice recapitulate many aspects of the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes in humans and are therefore frequently used in studies addressing the cellular and molecular mechanisms of this disease. It is of interest to know whether there is a similar mutation of SH2B3 in NOD mice. We found that the SH2B3 mutation is absent in NOD mice. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the sequence and the protein levels of SH2B3 in NOD mice.

A rare Y chromosome constitutional rearrangement: a partial AZFb deletion and duplication within chromosome Yp in an infertile man with severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia

We report a case of an infertile man with severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia with a partial azoospermia factor b (AZFb) deletion and duplication region within chromosome Yp11.2. The hormonal profile was normal for serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone and oestradiol. The patient, who showed a 46,XY karyotype, had an approximate 2.4 Mb inherited duplication region in Yp11.2 and a de novo partial AZFb deletion, which spanned 5.25 Mb including eight protein coding genes and four non-coding transcripts, but did not remove the RBMY gene family. Both proximal and distal breakpoints of the deletion were outside any palindromic region or inverted repeat sequence and intra-chromosomal non-allelic homologous recombination could not have been the deletion mechanism. The partial AZFb deletion in our case diminished sperm production, but did not completely extinguish spermatogenesis. Considering severe oligozoospermia, spermatozoa in the patient's ejaculate were used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection, resulting in two twin pregnancies.

Additive actions of the cannabinoid and neuropeptide Y systems on adiposity and lipid oxidation

AIMS

Energy homeostasis is regulated by a complex interaction of molecules and pathways, and new antiobesity treatments are likely to require multiple pharmacological targeting of anorexigenic or orexigenic pathways to achieve effective loss of excess body weight and adiposity. Cannabinoids, acting via the cannabinoid-1 (CB1) receptor, and neuropeptide Y (NPY) are important modulators of feeding behaviour, energy metabolism and body composition. We investigated the interaction of CB1 and NPY in the regulation of energy homeostasis, hypothesizing that dual blockade of CB1 and NPY signalling will induce greater weight and/or fat loss than that induced by single blockade of either system alone.

METHODS

We studied the effects of the CB1 antagonist Rimonabant on food intake, body weight, body composition, energy metabolism and bone physiology in wild-type (WT) and NPY knockout (NPY(-/-)) mice. Rimonabant was administered orally at 10 mg/kg body weight twice per day for 3 weeks. Oral Rimonabant was delivered voluntarily to mice via a novel method enabling studies to be carried out in the absence of gavage-induced stress.

RESULTS

Mice with dual blockade of CB1 and NPY signalling (Rimonabant-treated NPY(-/-) mice) exhibited greater reductions in body weight and adiposity than mice with single blockade of either system alone (Rimonabant-treated WT or vehicle-treated NPY(-/-) mice). These changes occurred without loss of lean tissue mass or bone mass. Furthermore, Rimonabant-treated NPY(-/-) mice showed a lower respiratory exchange ratio than that seen in Rimonabant-treated WT or vehicle-treated NPY(-/-) mice, suggesting that this additive effect of dual blockade of CB1 and NPY involves promotion of lipid oxidation. On the other hand, energy expenditure and physical activity were comparable amongst all treatment groups. Interestingly, Rimonabant similarly and transiently reduced spontaneous and fasting-induced food intake in WT and NPY(-/-) mice in the first hour after administration only, suggesting independent regulation of feeding by CB1 and NPY signalling. In contrast, Rimonabant increased serum corticosterone levels in WT mice, but this effect was not seen in NPY(-/-) mice, indicating that NPY signalling may be required for effects of CB1 on the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis.

CONCLUSIONS

Dual blockade of CB1 and NPY signalling leads to additive reductions in body weight and adiposity without concomitant loss of lean body mass or bone mass. An additive increase in lipid oxidation in dual CB1 and NPY blockade may contribute to the effect on adiposity. These findings open new avenues for more effective treatment of obesity via dual pharmacological manipulations of the CB1 and NPY systems.

[AZF microdeletions on the Y chromosome in infertile Chinese men: a five-year retrospective analysis]

OBJECTIVE

The past few years have seen great progress in the studies of the relationship between AZF microdeletions and male infertility. However, some molecular and clinical concerns are not supported by definitive data. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and types of AZF microdeletions in infertile Chinese men, and the indications for genotype-phenotype correlation.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed Y chromosome AZF microdeletions among 502 patients with nonobstructive azoospermia and 306 with severe oligozoospermia received in our hospital during the past five years.

RESULTS

Microdeletions were detected in 7.80% of the patients (63/808), 9.16% in the men with nonobstructive azoospermia (46/502) and 5.56% in those with severe oligozoospermia (17/306). Complete AZFa and AZFb (P5/Proximal P1) deletions were associated with azoospermia, whereas AZFc deletion with variable spermatogenic phenotypes. A mild decline in sperm concentration was found in one male with partial AZFb deletion. The most frequent deletion was the AZFc b2/b4 subtype (60.32%, 38/63), and 39.47% of the cases (15/38) had sperm in the ejaculate. Of the 63 deletions, only one case of the AZFc b2/b4 type had a sperm concentration of over 2 million sperm/ml.

CONCLUSION

AZF microdeletions play a significant role in the diagnosis and evaluation of spermatogenic defects. Larger-scale clinical researches on Y chromosome microdeletions may give us a deeper insight into their mechanism and the genotype-phenotype relationship.

[Mutation of the USP26 gene in spermatogenesis dysfunction]

The ubiquitin specific protease 26 (USP26) gene is located at Xq26.2 and present as a single exon on the X chromosome encoding for a protein of 913 amino acids. It belongs to a large family of deubiquitinating enzymes, and is exclusively expressed in the testis. There are conflicting reports on whether mutations in USP26 are associated with male infertility. This article updates the researches on the USP26 gene, its complicated relationship with male spermatogenesis dysfunction, the role of its mutation in male infertility, its geographical or ethnic distribution, and its evolution.

Peripheral neuropeptide Y Y1 receptors regulate lipid oxidation and fat accretion

OBJECTIVE

Neuropeptide Y and its Y receptors are important players in the regulation of energy homeostasis. However, while their functions in feeding regulation are well recognized, functions in other critical aspects of energy homeostasis are largely unknown. To investigate the function of Y1 receptors in the regulation of energy homeostasis, we examined energy expenditure, physical activity, body composition, oxidative fuel selection and mitochondrial oxidative capacity in germline Y1(-/-) mice as well as in a conditional Y1-receptor-knockdown model in which Y1 receptors were knocked down in peripheral tissues of adult mice.

RESULTS

Germline Y1(-/-) mice of both genders not only exhibit a decreased respiratory exchange ratio, indicative of increased lipid oxidation, but interestingly also develop late-onset obesity. However, the increased lipid oxidation is a primary effect of Y1 deletion rather than secondary to increased adiposity, as young Y1(-/-) mice are lean and show the same effect. The mechanism behind this is likely because of increased liver and muscle protein levels of carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 (CPT-1) and maximal activity of key enzymes involved in beta-oxidation; beta-hydroxyacyl CoA dehydrogenase (betaHAD) and medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD), leading to increased mitochondrial capacity for fatty acid transport and oxidation. These effects are controlled by peripheral Y1-receptor signalling, as adult-onset conditional Y1 knockdown in peripheral tissues also leads to increased lipid oxidation, liver CPT-1 levels and betaHAD activity. Importantly, these mice are resistant to diet-induced obesity.

CONCLUSIONS

This work shows the primary function of peripheral Y1 receptors in the regulation of oxidative fuel selection and adiposity, opening up new avenues for anti-obesity treatments by targeting energy utilization in peripheral tissues rather than suppressing appetite by central effects.

A novel splice site mutation in the dentin sialophosphoprotein gene in a Chinese family with dentinogenesis imperfecta type II

Twenty-four individuals were investigated that spanned six generations in a Chinese family affected with an apparently autosomal dominant form of dentinogenesis imperfecta type II (DGI-II, OMIM #125490). All affected individuals presented with typical, clinical and radiographic features of DGI-II, but without bilateral progressive high-frequency sensorineural hearing loss. To investigate the mutated molecule, a positional candidate approach was used to determine the mutated gene in this family. Genomic DNA was obtained from 24 affected individuals, 18 unaffected relatives of the family and 50 controls. Haplotype analysis was performed using leukocyte DNA for 6 short tandem repeat (STR) markers present in chromosome 4 (D4S1534, GATA62A11, DSPP, DMP1, SPP1 and D4S1563). In the critical region between D4S1534 and DMP1, the dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) gene (OMIM *125485) was considered as the strongest candidate gene. The first four exons and exon/intron boundaries of the gene were analyzed using DNA from 24 affected individuals and 18 unaffected relatives of the same family. DNA sequencing revealed a heterozygous deletion mutation in intron 2 (at positions -3 to -25), which resulted in a frameshift mutation, that changed the acceptor site sequence from CAG to AAG (IVS2-3C-->A) and may also have disrupted the branch point consensus sequence in intron 2. The mutation was found in the 24 affected individuals, but not in the 18 unaffected relatives and 50 controls. The deletion was identified by allele-specific sequencing and denaturing high-performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC) analysis. We conclude that the heterozygous deletion mutation contributed to the pathogenesis of DGI-II.

Rapid molecular prenatal diagnosis of spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita by PCR-SSP assay

Heterozygous mutations of COL2A1 gene are responsible for type II collagenopathies. The common skeletal phenotypes include achondrogenesis type II, hypochondrogenesis, Stickler dysplasia, Kniest dysplasia, late onset spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, and spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita (SEDC). Prevention of SEDC can be achieved by prenatal diagnosis. This study reports the first rapid molecular prenatal diagnosis of SEDC performed in China by polymerase chain reaction sequence-specific primer (PCR-SSP) analysis. The pregnant woman we previously reported with SEDC carried the G to A substitution at nucleotide 1510 in exon 23 of COL2A1 gene, which caused a change from glycine to serine at codon 504 (G504S). By the time the woman got pregnant again, she had terminated two pregnancies and still had no child. In the first pregnancy, the molecular mutation of the family was not yet identified, and therefore prenatal diagnosis was unable to be performed by DNA analysis. In the second pregnancy, G504S mutation was found from fetal DNA. At the time of her third pregnancy, the woman and her husband became extremely worried about the potential SEDC for the fetus. For this reason, a quick and reliable molecular prenatal diagnosis of SEDC was performed by a PCR-SSP on an amniocyte sample collected at the 14th week of pregnancy. No mutation of the fetal DNA was identified. The result was obtained within 24 h after the sample was collected. The technique could be applied in confirmatory diagnosis and prenatal diagnosis for the affected family.

[AZF microdeletions are not related with recurrent spontaneous abortion]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between azoospermia factor (AZF) microdeletions of the Y-chromosome and recurrent spontaneous abortion.

METHODS

We collected 26 chorionic villus samples from abortive male embryos and 51 blood samples from the husbands whose wives had recurrent spontaneous abortion, extracted genomic DNA from the samples and detected 12 STSs in the AZFa, AZFb and AZFc regions of Yq11.2 by amplification multiplex PCR.

RESULT

AZF microdeletions were found neither in the chorionic villus samples nor in the blood samples.

CONCLUSION

There is no relationship between AZF microdeletions and recurrent spontaneous abortion.

[Observation of spermatogenic cells for infertile patients with Y-chromosomal microdeletion]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the spermatogenic function of the infertile patients with Y-chromosomal microdeletion.

METHODS

Thirty-five 23-44 years old patients with microdeletions of Y chromosome were included in this study. Three semen analyses confirmed that 26 cases were non-obstructive azoospermia and 9 oligospermia with sperm count < 1 x 10(6)/ml. They were divided into 3 groups by the locus of deletion, 5 cases of AZFa + b + c deletion in group 1, 4 cases of AZFb + c and 3 cases of AZFb deletion in group 2, and 23 cases of AZFc deletion in group 3. Semen was collected and centrifuged, the supernatant removed and the centrifugate applied on the clean slides after dilution. Following Wright's-Giemsa staining, the slides were viewed under the microscope. Testis histopathological biopsy was performed for 6 of the cases.

RESULTS

In group 1, no spermatogenic cells were observed but only Sertoli cells in 1 case, with a consistency between the result of spermatogenic cell test and that of testis biopsy. In group 2, spermatogenic cell tests revealed spermatocytes in 6 cases, 2 were proved by testis biopsy with sperm maturation arrest in the primary spermatocyte stage, and spermatogenic cells of all developmental stages were seen in 1 AZFb deletion patient with the same sperm maturation arrest as the above two. In group 3, only primary spermatocytes were detected by spermatogenic cell test in 5 oligospermia patients but no spermatogenic cells in the 15 azoospermia cases, and biopsy revealed 2 cases of Sertoli cell-only syndrome.

CONCLUSION

The spermatogenic cell test can effectively assess the spermatogenic function of AZF deletion patients. Non-invasive and easily accepted by patients, it is highly recommendable for the evaluation of spermatogenesis of patients with Y-chromosomal microdeletion.

A novel RNA-splicing mutation in COL1A1 gene causing osteogenesis imperfecta type I in a Chinese family

BACKGROUND

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI), also known as brittle bone disease, is a rare heterogeneous group of inherited disorders characterized by low bone mass and increased bone fragility. The four major clinical criteria for diagnosis of OI are osteoporosis with abnormal fragility of the skeleton, blue sclera, dentinogenesis imperfecta, and premature otosclerosis. The presence of two of these abnormalities confirms the diagnosis. More than 90% patients have autosomal dominant mutations in one of the two genes, COL1A1 and COL1A2, that encode the alpha chains of type I collagen. While the diagnosis of OI is still based on clinical and radiological grounds, there is a growing demand for the molecular characterization of causative mutations. Although there have been several studies on the mutational spectra of COL1A1 and/or COL1A2 in Western populations, very few cases have been reported from Asia. The purpose of this study is to report two patients with OI type I in a Chinese family, who had a novel RNA-splicing mutation in COL1A1 gene and describe the molecular, radiological and clinical findings.

METHODS

The proband, (case II-5), a 32-y-old Chinese male, and his 7-y-old daughter were diagnosed as OI type I according to their clinical and radiological features. Genomic DNA was extracted from their blood samples and all promoters, exons and exon/intron boundaries of COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes were sequenced. Polymerase chain reaction sequence-specific primers (PCR-SSP) was used to confirm patients' heterozygous state.

RESULTS

Direct DNA sequencing analysis of COL1A1 gene revealed a splicing mutation (c.1875+1G>A, also as IVS 27+1G>A) that converted the 5' end of intron 27 from GT to AT. This mutation was found in both 2 affected individuals but 9 unaffected relatives and the 50 controls were not observed, which was consistent with the clinical diagnosis. This mutation (c.1875+1G>A) appeared to be novel, which is neither reported in literature nor registered in the Database of Collagen Mutations. The heterozygous states of patients' intron 27 were confirmed by PCR-SSP.

CONCLUSION

We identify a novel RNA-splicing mutation (c.1875+1G>A) in COL1A1 gene resulting in OI type I in a Chinese family. The detailed molecular and clinical features will be useful for extending the evidence for genetic and phenotypic heterogeneity in OI and exploring the phenotype-genotype correlations in OI.

[Evaluation of sperm mitochondrial membrane potential by JC-1 fluorescent staining and flow cytometry]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the feasibility and clinical significance of detecting sperm mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) by JC-1 fluorescent staining and flow cytometry, and to explore the relationship between the results of JC-1 staining and seminal parameters.

METHODS

Sixty-three semen samples were divided into a fertile (n = 31) and an infertile group (n = 32) and underwent computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA). All the samples were washed, followed by JC-1 staining and evaluation of sperm MMP by flow cytometry. The percentage of normal sperm MMP was indicated as the percentage of sperm emitting orange-red fluorescence (JC-1 + %).

RESULTS

The JC-1 + % was significantly higher in the fertile group than in the infertile one ([75.89 +/- 15.69]% vs [54.04 +/- 22.21] %, P = 0.000), correlated positively with sperm motility (r = 0.610, P = 0.000) and the percentage of grade a + b sperm (r = 0.614, P = 0.000) and negatively with grade d sperm (r = -0.504, P = 0.000). There was a significant positive correlation between the results of JC-1 staining (JC-1 + %) and that of Rh123 /PI dual fluorescent staining (Rh123 + / PI (-)%) (r = 0.938, P = 0.000).

CONCLUSION

JC-1 staining and flow cytometry could readily and quickly detect sperm MMP and the sperm JC-1 + % could be an auxiliary marker for the diagnosis of male infertility.

Molecular prenatal diagnosis in 2 pregnancies at risk for spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita

BACKGROUND

Spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita (SEDC) is an autosomal dominant skeletal dysplasia characterized by short stature, abnormal epiphyses, and flattened vertebral bodies. Secondary prevention of SEDC can be achieved by prenatal diagnosis. Reports of antenatally-diagnosed SEDC fetuses have been very rare and molecular prenatal diagnosis even rarer. We previously reported a familial G504S mutation in the type II collagen (COL2A1) gene resulting in SEDC. In this study, molecular prenatal diagnosis was performed to 2 couples in this family with pregnancies at risk for SEDC.

METHODS

Amniotic fluid was sampled by amniocentesis under ultrasound guidance at 19+3 and 18+6 weeks' gestation, respectively. Karyotype and molecular genetic analysis were performed on cultured amniotic fluid cells. Maternal cell contamination was excluded by short tandem repeat (STR) analysis. Direct DNA sequencing and DHPLC were conducted to detect the potential mutation in exon 23 of COL2A1 gene. Both women underwent serial sonograms because they insisted that the molecular diagnosis should be confirmed by another method, although they had been informed that mutation analysis is predictive of the disease.

RESULTS

Karyotype of both fetuses was normal and molecular genetic analysis revealed that fetus 1 carried a G504S mutation in exon 23, while fetus 2 was normal. In case 1, femur length of the fetus was markedly below the 5th centile at 23 weeks' gestation, which confirms the accuracy of molecular diagnosis. A medical termination was carried out at 27+5 weeks' gestation and a male fetus with a relatively large head and short limbs was delivered. The fetal radiograph demonstrated a number of features, including generalised platyspondyly, absent ossification of the vertebral bodies in the cervical region and significant shortening of the long bones. The diagnosis of SEDC was thus confirmed clinically. Ultrasound monitoring of fetus 2 showed that its femur length was normal for gestational age at repeated scans, which was consistent with the molecular diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Molecular analysis allows early and accurate prenatal diagnosis for SEDC once mutation is known in a family. However, considering the poor genotype/phenotype correlation in many cases of SEDC, the combination of ultrasound as well as molecular genetic approach might be needed.

[Prenatal diagnosis of two pregnancies with risk of chromosomal disorders]

OBJECTIVE

To report the prenatal diagnosis of 2 cases of pregnancy with the risk of chromosomal disorders. In Case 1, the pregnant woman had a daughter with testicular regression syndrome and a segmental duplication of Ypter --> Yp11.2 and a deletion of Yq11.23 --> Yqter. In Case 2, both the pregnant woman and her husband were carriers of chromosomal balanced translocation.

METHODS

Two samples of amniotic fluid were obtained at the 19th week of gestation for fetal karyotype analysis. For Case 1, FISH with a probe of Xp/Yp subtelomere was performed on the metaphase of the amniotic fluid, genomic DNA of the amniotic fluid extracted and multiplex PCR conducted for AZF regions. Both the pregnant women underwent sonography to confirm the karyotypic diagnosis.

RESULTS

Cytogenetic, FISH and multiplex PCR analysis of the cultured amniotic fluid cells from Case 1 showed a normal male karyotype, and ultrasound scan of the fetus showed normal male external genitalia and normal development. Cytogenetic analysis of the cultured amniotic fluid cells from Case 2 revealed a karyotype of balanced translocation with t(13 ; 14) from the father, and no abnormality of the fetus was found by ultrasound scan.

CONCLUSION

It is helpful to perform cytogenetical and molecular prenatal diagnosis in combination with ultrasound scan for the fetus with the risk of chromosomal disorders and subsequently for genetic counseling.

[Correlation of total antioxidant capacity in seminal plasma with sperm motility of infertile men]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the correlation of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in seminal plasma with sperm motility in infertile men, and explore the clinical significance of TAC in seminal plasma in male fertility.

METHODS

One hundred and thirteen infertile men with normal sperm density were included in the experiment group and 28 fertile men in the normal control. The seminal parameter analysis was performed by computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) system. Seminal plasma TAC was measured with spectroscopic analysis.

RESULTS

Seminal plasma TAC was (14.37 +/- 8.45) U in the infertile men with normal sperm density and (19.82 +/- 6.33) U in the fertile control. Compared with the fertile men, seminal plasma TAC in the experiment group was significantly lower (P < 0.01). There was significant correlation between seminal plasma TAC and sperm motility, grade a sperm (r = 0.208, P < 0.05), grade (a + b) sperm (r = 0.231, P < 0.05), straightness (STR) (r = 0.200, P < 0.05), linearity (LIN) (r = 0.208, P < 0.05), curvilinear velocity (VCL) (r = 0.189, P < 0.05), straight line velocity (VSL) (r = 0.210, P < 0.05), average path velocity (VAP) (r = 0.215, P < 0.05), and beat cross frequency (BCF) (r = -0.248, P < 0.01). There was no significant correlation among the average motion degree (MAD), the amplitude of lateral head displacement (ALH) and wobbly (WOB).

CONCLUSION

TAC in seminal plasma is closely related to male fertility, appropriate TAC provides a favourable environment for sperm swimming. The decreased level of TAC in seminal plasma may be one of the causes of male infertility. The analysis of TAC in seminal plasma may afford valuable evidence in exploring the mechanism of male infertility and in clinical medication.

[Detection and significance of succinate dehydrogenase of sperm mitochondria]

OBJECTIVE

To detect succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) of sperm mitochondria by an improved method, and to evaluate the relationship between SDH and the motility and viability of sperm.

METHODS

In 46 fertile and infertile men (aged from 25 to 36), the motility, viability and mitochondrial SDH of sperm were detected by computer-assisted semen analysis system, dead/live sperm molecular fluorescent probe and an improved cytochemical method. Then, the correlation between the motility and viability of sperm and the positive percentage of sperm mitochondrial SDH were analyzed.

RESULTS

In the 46 fertile and infertile men, the motility and viability of sperm were (67.33 +/- 7.37)% and (79.78 +/- 7.65)%, and the positive percentage of sperm mitochondrial SDH was (74.74 +/- 8.29)%. The motility and viability of sperm and positive percentage of sperm mitochondrial SDH had significant correlation (r = 0.901, P < 0.01; r = 0.876, P < 0.01; r = 0.917, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Detection of sperm mitochondrial SDH has significance in evaluation of sperm mitochondrial function and may serve as an assisted marker of sperm viability.

Production of very-high-amylose potato starch by inhibition of SBE A and B

High-amylose starch is in great demand by the starch industry for its unique functional properties. However, very few high-amylose crop varieties are commercially available. In this paper we describe the generation of very-high-amylose potato starch by genetic modification. We achieved this by simultaneously inhibiting two isoforms of starch branching enzyme to below 1% of the wild-type activities. Starch granule morphology and composition were noticeably altered. Normal, high-molecular-weight amylopectin was absent, whereas the amylose content was increased to levels comparable to the highest commercially available maize starches. In addition, the phosphorus content of the starch was increased more than fivefold. This unique starch, with its high amylose, low amylopectin, and high phosphorus levels, offers novel properties for food and industrial applications.

Regulation of brain G-protein go by Alzheimer's disease gene presenilin-1

To investigate a possible association between G-proteins and presenilin-1 (PS-1), a series of glutathione S-transferase-fusion proteins containing portions of PS-1 were prepared and used in vitro in binding experiments with tissue and recombinant G-proteins. The results demonstrate that the 39 C-terminal amino acids of PS-1 selectively bind the brain G-protein, Go. Addition of guanosine 5'-3-O-(thio)triphosphate promoted Go dissociation from PS-1, indicating that this domain mimics the function of G-protein-coupling domains found in receptors. The 39-amino acid synthetic polypeptide activated Go in a magnesium ion-dependent manner. Physical interaction of full-length PS-1 and Go was also demonstrated. Following transfection of Goalpha and N-terminally FLAG-tagged PS-1 in COS-7 cells, Go was immunoprecipitated by FLAG antibodies. In addition, endogenous PS-1 and Goalpha were colocalized immunocytochemically in human glioma cell lines. The results indicate that PS-1 regulates Go activities in living cells.

Affinity chromatography of trypsin using chitosan as ligand support

Chitosan beads were prepared for use as affinity adsorbent carrier. The affinity ligand, chicken ovomucoid, was immobilized on the chitosan via a cross-linker, glutaraldehyde. The results showed that 60 mg chicken ovomucoid could be immobilized on l g chitosan, and the maximum binding capacity for trypsin was about 8.10(4) U/g dry adsorbent. The procedure for preparing the chitosan-based affinity adsorbents was much safer and simpler than when a Sepharose-based matrix was the support. Columns packed with the affinity adsorbents were employed for trypsin chromatography. The experimental results revealed that the affinity adsorbents possessed good mechanical strength and storage stability and could be also operated repeatedly. Chitosan was suitable for use as an affinity adsorbent support for laboratory-scale and large-scale purification.

[Anti-virus effect of aralosides]

The result showed that the anti-virus effect of aralosides on infections with poliovirus II, ECHO delta virus, adenovirus II, herpes simplex virus I, coxsackie B3 virus and coxsackie A16 virus was remarkable. Aralosides could inhibit the development of cytopathic effect (CPE) and protect cultural cells from being infected with the above viruses.

Diagnostic value of serum gamma-glutamyl transferase isoenzyme for hepatocellular carcinoma: a 10-year study

Serum gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) was separated into nine to 11 isoenzyme bands (designated as GGT I-XI) by vertical slab electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gradient gel. The diagnostic value of GGT isoenzyme II (GGT II) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) was studied, and the results were as follows: 1) GGT II was positive in 90% of 90 cases of HCC, and negative in most patients with acute and chronic viral hepatitis, extrahepatic tumors, in pregnant women, and in healthy controls; 2) the positive rate of GGT II assay was higher than that of alkaline phosphatase isoenzyme I (ALP I), alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), and alpha 1-antitrypsin (AAT) in 101 cases of HCC. In cases in which the AFP was greater than 50 ng/ml or less than 50 ng/ml, the positive rates of GGT II were 70.8% and 75-100%, respectively; 3) of 14 cases of small-size HCC, the positive rate of GGT II was 78.6%, which was higher than that of AFP (50%), AAT (28.6%), and ALP I (0%); 4) of 62 cases that were false-positive for GGT II assay, 24.2% developed into HCC during a follow-up of 2.1-20 months. In subjects with persistent and recurrent positivity of GGT II, 86.7% and 22.2%, respectively, developed HCC. No patient with temporal positivity of GGT II developed HCC. The results show that GGT II can be applied as an additional marker for HCC, and is valuable not only for the diagnosis of clinical HCC, but for the detection of small or subclinical HCC. Periodic follow-up with assay of GGT II in patients at high risk for HCC may predict the development of hepatoma.