An Isoform-Selective Modulator of Cryptochrome 1 Regulates Circadian Rhythms in Mammals

Cryptochrome 1 (CRY1) and CRY2 are core regulators of the circadian clock, and the development of isoform-selective modulators is important for the elucidation of their redundant and distinct functions. Here, we report the identification and functional characterization of a small-molecule modulator of the mammalian circadian clock that selectively controls CRY1. Cell-based circadian chemical screening identified a thienopyrimidine derivative KL201 that lengthened the period of circadian rhythms in cells and tissues. Functional assays revealed stabilization of CRY1 but not CRY2 by KL201. A structure-activity relationship study of KL201 derivatives in combination with X-ray crystallography of the CRY1-KL201 complex uncovered critical sites and interactions required for CRY1 regulation. KL201 bound to CRY1 in overlap with FBXL3, a subunit of ubiquitin ligase complex, and the effect of KL201 was blunted by knockdown of FBXL3. KL201 will facilitate isoform-selective regulation of CRY1 to accelerate chronobiology research and therapeutics against clock-related diseases.

Isoform-selective regulation of mammalian cryptochromes

CRY1 and CRY2 are essential components of the circadian clock controlling daily physiological rhythms. Accumulating evidences indicate distinct roles of these highly homologous proteins, in addition to redundant functions. Therefore, the development of isoform-selective compounds represents an effective approach towards understanding the similarities and differences of CRY1 and CRY2 by controlling each isoform individually. We conducted phenotypic screenings of circadian clock modulators, and identified KL101 and TH301 that selectively stabilize CRY1 and CRY2, respectively. Crystal structures of CRY-compound complexes revealed conservation of compound-binding sites between CRY1 and CRY2. We further discovered a unique mechanism underlying compound selectivity in which the disordered C-terminal region outside the pocket was required for the differential effects of KL101 and TH301 against CRY isoforms. By using these compounds, we found a new role of CRY1 and CRY2 as enhancers of brown adipocyte differentiation, providing the basis of CRY-mediated regulation of energy expenditure.

67 Effects of phytohemagglutinin on the culture of isolated bovine blastomeres derived from the 8-cell stage invitro-produced embryos

Monozygotic twin embryos which can efficiently be produced by blastomere separation and aggregation of early cleavage stages of embryos using commercially provided well-of-the-well (WOW) culture dish. Phytohaemagglutinin (PHA) is a plant lectin that binds to and aggregates on the surface of animal cells, but also contains toxicity that causes food poisoning. The present study was conducted to evaluate the toxicity to embryos and the effect to development of isolated blastomeres on PHA-supplemented WOW culture. Embryos were produced using oocytes from ovaries collected at an abattoir by IVM, IVF, and invitro culture (IVC). The tissue culture medium 199 supplemented with 5% calf serum (CS), Brackett-Oliphant solution supplemented with 10mgmL−1 bovine serum albumin, and CR1aa medium containing 5% CS were used for each culture step. For the evaluation of PHA toxicity, 89 embryos that developed to the 5-8-cell stage were obtained at Day 2 after insemination. Each embryo was cultured in a droplet of 5 µL/embryo IVC culture medium supplemented with or without PHA. For the evaluation of PHA to development of isolated blastomeres, 111 of 8-cell stage embryos were obtained 48-54h post-insemination. Zonae pellucidae were removed by exposure to 0.25% pronase. Then, embryos were separated into single blastomeres by gentle pipetting in IVC medium. Each four blastomeres were formed in the shape of a bunch inside the thin cylinder at the tip of the Pasteur pipette by gentle pipetting. Then, each mass of blastomeres in each 60 masses was cultured individually in 5-µL droplets of IVC medium supplemented with or without PHA on the flat surface of a tissue culture dish. On the other hand, each four blastomeres were introduced into a single conical micro-well each having a diameter and depth of ~287µm and 168µm (Dai Nippon Printing). This culture of blastomeres was performed covered with a droplet of 2.5µL well−1 IVC medium supplemented with or without PHA in each 50 or 52 wells. In all of investigations, PHA was used at 50µgmL−1 (Akagi et al. 2011 J. Reprod. Dev. 57). Statistical analysis was performed using Student's t-test and analysis of variance. The blastocyst formation rate (71.1±2.3% vs. 72.7±1.7%), total cell number (120 vs. 122), and inner cell mass cell number (47 vs. 51) at Day 7 after IVF did not differ between PHA-supplemented and PHA-free group in the toxicity test, respectively. In the blastomere culture, the blastocyst formation rate was very low (10.0±5.9% vs. 5.0±2.9%) regardless of the PHA supplementation in drops on the flat surface of a tissue culture dish. On the other hand, blastocyst formation was improved using the WOW culture dish (24.0±3.6% vs. 40.4±7.6%) but there was no difference with or without PHA supplementation. Although nontoxicity of PHA and efficacy of WOW culture for isolated-aggregated blastomeres were confirmed, no improvement of PHA supplementation on development was observed in this study. Subsequently, experiments on the optimum concentration of PHA for aggregation and development of blastomeres in WOW culture are required.

Cell-based screen identifies a new potent and highly selective CK2 inhibitor for modulation of circadian rhythms and cancer cell growth

Compounds targeting the circadian clock have been identified as potential treatments for clock-related diseases, including cancer. Our cell-based phenotypic screen revealed uncharacterized clock-modulating compounds. Through affinity-based target deconvolution, we identified GO289, which strongly lengthened circadian period, as a potent and selective inhibitor of CK2. Phosphoproteomics identified multiple phosphorylation sites inhibited by GO289 on clock proteins, including PER2 S693. Furthermore, GO289 exhibited cell type-dependent inhibition of cancer cell growth that correlated with cellular clock function. The x-ray crystal structure of the CK2α-GO289 complex revealed critical interactions between GO289 and CK2-specific residues and no direct interaction of GO289 with the hinge region that is highly conserved among kinases. The discovery of GO289 provides a direct link between the circadian clock and cancer regulation and reveals unique design principles underlying kinase selectivity.

75 Culture of isolated blastomeres supplemented with L-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate in a well-of-the-well culture dish

We have reported monozygotic twin calves that can be produced efficiently by blastomere separation of 2-cell stage embryos and by the use of a commercially provided well-of-the-well culture dish (Hashiyada 2017 J. Reprod. Dev.). The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of a culture supplement, l-ascorbic acid 2-phosphate (AA-2P), a sustained antioxidant substance that reduces reactive oxygen species. Embryos were produced using oocytes from ovaries collected at an abattoir by in vitro maturation, IVF, and in vitro culture (IVC). TCM199 supplemented with 5% calf serum, Brackett-Oliphant solution supplemented with 10mg mL−1 BSA, and CR1aa containing 5% calf serum were used for each culture step. Two-cell stage embryos were obtained 24 to 27h post-insemination (hpi). Zonae pellucidae were removed by exposure to 0.25% pronase. Then, embryos were separated into each blastomere by gentle pipetting in IVC medium. Each blastomere was introduced into a single conical micro-well of 25 wells, each having a diameter and depth of ~287 and 168µm (Dai Nippon Printing, Tokyo, Japan). Culture of blastomeres in wells was performed covered with a droplet of 2.5 µL/well IVC medium supplemented with 0 (n=212), 250 (n=214), 500 (n=206), and 750 µM (n=204) of AA-2P. The blastocyst formation rate at Day 8 after IVF, the quality of blastocysts assessed by morphological observation, and the cell numbers were compared among each concentration of AA-2P. In addition, the developmental speed to the blastocyst stage was analysed using time-lapse cinematography for 0 and 500 µM of AA-2P (n=40, respectively). Statistical analysis was performed using Fisher’s exact test and ANOVA. The blastocyst formation rate (32-40%), the total cell number (108-114), and inner cell mass cell number (26-28) did not differ among groups. The time to reach the 4-cell stage was significantly shorter in media supplemented with 0 µM (43 hpi) than with 500 µM (52 hpi); however, the time to reach the blastocyst stage did not differ (150 and 155 hpi, respectively). Regarding the proportion of quality grade 1 to 3 blastocysts and the developmental speed to the blastocyst stage, high-quality grade 1 embryos were significantly faster than those of middle and low-quality grade 2 and 3 ones in 0 (145 v. 154 hpi; P<0.05) and 500 µM (150v. 158 hpi; P<0.05) supplemented medium. In this experiment, no effect of AA-2P was observed for the culture of isolated blastomeres from 2-cell stage embryos, although it was suggested that blastomeres with high developmental competence reach the blastocyst stage faster, which might reflect the quality of the embryos.

77 Monozygotic Twin Calves Production by Blastomere Separation Technique with Commercial Well-of-the-Well Culture Dish

Monozygotic twin bovine embryos can be produced by blastomere separation of 2-cell embryos and commercial well-of-the-well (WOW) culture dish (Hashiyada et al. 2016 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 28, 178) obtaining 60% and 48% of blastocyst formation and monozygotic blastocyst pairs, respectively. The present study was conducted to evaluate the fertility of blastocysts derived from this production system in Japanese Black beef cattle. Embryos were produced using oocytes collected by ovum pick-up technique. TCM-199 supplemented with 5% calf serum (CS), Brackett-Oliphant solution supplemented with 10 mg mL−1 BSA, and CR1aa containing 5% CS, were used for each culture step: in vitro maturation, fertilization, and culture (IVM,IVF, and IVC). Two-cell stage embryos were obtained 24 to 27 h post-insemination. Zonae pellucidae were removed by exposure to 0.25% pronase. Then, embryos were separated into blastomeres by gentle pipetting in IVC medium. Each blastomere was introduced into a single conical microwell of 25 wells, each having a diameter and depth of ~287 μm and 168 μm (Dai Nippon Printing, Tokyo, Japan). Blastomeres in wells were cultured covered with a droplet of 2.5 μL of IVC medium/well. The developed blastocysts in pairs on 7 days post-insemination were used for transfer. Single embryos of monozygotic twin embryos were transferred to Japanese Black cattle with a generally small body frame to produce twin calves from a set of recipients. Twin embryos were transferred in pairs to unilateral of uterus of non-lactating Holstein cows. Pregnancy and twin pregnancy were determined at 30 days of gestation by ultrasonography and were reconfirmed at 60 days with detection of fetal loss. Statistical significance was analysed by Fisher’s exact test. There was no significant difference in pregnancy rate or twin pregnancy rate between single embryo transfer (7/14, 50% and 2/7, 28.6%) and twin embryo transfer (9/21, 42.9% and 4/21, 19%). In either transfer method, fetal loss was not observed in diagnosis carried out at 60 days by ultrasonography. To date, 2 pairs of twin calves have been obtained from twin pregnant cows by twin embryo transfer within the normal range of gestation length (286 and 288 days) and birth weight (31-40 kg). These results indicate that blastocysts developed from blastomeres separated from 2-cell embryos by culturing with commercial WOW culture dish had fertility similar to that of intact embryos derived from standard in vitro culture and further demonstrate the possibility of production of normal twin calves.

164 The Origin of Oocyte, In Vitro-Matured Oocyte With/Without Super-Stimulation, and In Vivo-Matured Oocyte Influence the Timing of Cleavage in Early Embryo and Oxygen Consumption of Blastocyst After IVF in Japanese Black Cow

It has been reported that in vitro- and in vivo-matured oocyte obtained from fully growth follicles have high developmental competence. Furthermore, the timing of cleavage in early embryo after IVF affect pregnancy success after embryo transfer. It is still unknown whether origin of oocyte affects the timing of cleavage. In this study, we examined the influence of oocyte origin on cleavage timing of early embryo after IVF. Japanese Black cows were used as donors. Oocytes derived from non-stimulation follicles (control: CON), fully grown follicles after super-stimulation treatment (SST) and follicles just before ovulation after ovulation-induction treatment (in vivo-matured oocyte: VIVO) were obtained by ovum pick-up (OPU). In the CON group, OPU was conducted on arbitrary days except oestrus. In SST group, dominant follicles were aspirated and a CIDR was inserted into the vagina on Day 0, and then FSH was injected twice a day from the evening of Day 1 to the morning of Day 5 with decreasing doses in total 20 AU. In the evening of Day 4, prostaglandin F2α (0.5 mg of cloprostenol) was administered. On Day 6, SST oocytes were collected after CIDR withdrawl. In the VIVO group, the treatment was carried out as SST until prostaglandin F2α administration, and then CIDR withdrawal and administration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH, 0.2 mg of fertirelin acetate) performed on the evening of Day 4 and morning of Day 5, respectively. The VIVO oocytes were collected at 25 to 26 h after GnRH. The CON and SST oocytes were inseminated after 20 to 22 h of IVM, and VIVO oocytes were inseminated at 30 h after GnRH, with 3 × 106 sperm mL−1, respectively. After 6 h of IVF, presumptive zygotes were individually cultured for 168 h, using a well-of-the-well dish (Dai-Nippon-Print, Japan) and were observed by time-lapse cinematography (CCM-4MZS; Astec, Japan) to analyse the cleavage timing of embryos. Oxygen consumption (O2) was measured in blastocysts on 168 hpi with a scaning electrochemical microscopy system (HV-405SP; Hokuto Denko, Japan). Statistical analysis was carried out by Steel-Dwass test for the timing of cleavage and Tukey-Kramer test for O2. In CON (n = 15), SST (n = 25), and VIVO (n = 36), the time of first cleavage was 27.5, 29.1, and 26.1 hpi, that of second cleavage was 38.9, 40.3, and 36.0 hpi, and that of third cleavage was 48.5, 46.1, and 45.9 hpi, respectively. These cleavage times were shorter in VIVO than in CON and SST (P < 0.01). The time interval between first and second cleavage (2nd cell cycle) was shorter in VIVO (10.1; P < 0.01) than CON (11.4) and SST (11.2). The time interval between second and third (3rd cell cycle) were shorter (P < 0.01) in SST (9.4) than in VIVO (10.1), and in VIVO than in CON (10.2), respectively. Consumption of O2 was lower (P < 0.01) in CON (0.61 × 10−14 mol s−1) than in SST (0.94 × 10−14 mol s−1) and VIVO (0.94 × 10−14 mol s−1). These results suggest that the origin of oocyte influences the length of cell cycle and O2 consumption of blastocyst producted in vitro.

Following the Interstellar History of Carbon: From the Interiors of Stars to the Surfaces of Planets

The chemical history of carbon is traced from its origin in stellar nucleosynthesis to its delivery to planet surfaces. The molecular carriers of this element are examined at each stage in the cycling of interstellar organic material and their eventual incorporation into solar system bodies. The connection between the various interstellar carbon reservoirs is also examined. Carbon has two stellar sources: supernova explosions and mass loss from evolved stars. In the latter case, the carbon is dredged up from the interior and then ejected into a circumstellar envelope, where a rich and unusual C-based chemistry occurs. This molecular material is eventually released into the general interstellar medium through planetary nebulae. It is first incorporated into diffuse clouds, where carbon is found in polyatomic molecules such as H₂CO, HCN, HNC, c-C₃H₂, and even C₆₀⁺. These objects then collapse into dense clouds, the sites of star and planet formation. Such clouds foster an active organic chemistry, producing compounds with a wide range of functional groups with both gas-phase and surface mechanisms. As stars and planets form, the chemical composition is altered by increasing stellar radiation, as well as possibly by reactions in the presolar nebula. Some molecular, carbon-rich material remains pristine, however, encapsulated in comets, meteorites, and interplanetary dust particles, and is delivered to planet surfaces. Key Words: Carbon isotopes-Prebiotic evolution-Interstellar molecules-Comets-Meteorites. Astrobiology 16, 997-1012.

Crystal structure of ketopantoate reductase from Thermococcus kodakarensis complexed with NADP(.)

Coenzyme A (CoA) plays pivotal roles in a variety of metabolic pathways in all organisms. The biosynthetic pathway of CoA is strictly regulated by feedback inhibition. In the hyperthermophilic archaeon Thermococcus kodakarensis, ketopantoate reductase (KPR), which catalyzes the NAD(P)H-dependent reduction of 2-oxopantoate, is a target of feedback inhibition by CoA. The crystal structure of KPR from T. kodakarensis (Tk-KPR) complexed with CoA and 2-oxopantoate has previously been reported. The structure provided an explanation for the competitive inhibition mechanism. Here, further biochemical analyses of Tk-KPR and the crystal structure of Tk-KPR in complex with NADP(+) are reported. A mutational analysis implies that the residues in the binding pocket cooperatively contribute to the recognition of CoA. The structure reveals the same dimer architecture as the Tk-KPR-CoA-2-oxopantoate complex. Moreover, the positions of the residues involved in the dimer interaction are not changed by the binding of CoA and 2-oxopantoate, suggesting individual conformational changes of Tk-KPR monomers.

Crystal structure of archaeal ketopantoate reductase complexed with coenzyme a and 2-oxopantoate provides structural insights into feedback regulation

Coenzyme A (CoA) plays essential roles in a variety of metabolic pathways in all three domains of life. The biosynthesis pathway of CoA is strictly regulated by feedback inhibition. In bacteria and eukaryotes, pantothenate kinase is the target of feedback inhibition by CoA. Recent biochemical studies have identified ketopantoate reductase (KPR), which catalyzes the NAD(P)H-dependent reduction of 2-oxopantoate to pantoate, as a target of the feedback inhibition by CoA in archaea. However, the mechanism for recognition of CoA by KPR is still unknown. Here we report the crystal structure of KPR from Thermococcus kodakarensis in complex with CoA and 2-oxopantoate. CoA occupies the binding site of NAD(P)H, explaining the competitive inhibition by CoA. Our structure reveals a disulfide bond between CoA and Cys84 that indicates an irreversible inhibition upon binding of CoA. The structure also suggests the cooperative binding of CoA and 2-oxopantoate that triggers a conformational closure and seems to facilitate the disulfide bond formation. Our findings provide novel insights into the mechanism that regulates biosynthesis of CoA in archaea.

194 EFFECT OF CORPUS LUTEUM PRESENCE FOR THE DURATION OF FOLLICULAR GROWTH ON BOVINE OOCYTE DEVELOPMENTAL COMPETENCE

It has been reported that follicular wave control is effective to increase bovine oocyte (OC) quality of ovum pickup (Imai et al. 2008 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 20, 182). However, the effect on the bovine OC developmental competence to the presence of corpus luteum (CL) for the duration of follicular growth (FG) is not known. This study was conducted to examine the developmental competence of OC after stimulation of FG with and without CL. Japanese Black cows (n = 4/session) were synchronised in oestrus (Day 0; D0) with prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α; 0.5 mg cloprostenol). On Day 9, cows were removed follicles (FL) ≥ 8 mm in diameter and CIDR were inserted. Cows in the PGF2α treatment group (PG) were administered PGF2α (0.75 mg cloprostenol) for regression of the CL; the PGF2α non-treatment group (non-PG) were not administered PGF2α for the presence of CL. The cows received 20 mg of FSH twice a day from the evening of Day 10 to the morning of Day 14 in decreasing doses. Oocytes were collected from FL ≥ 5 mm by OPU on Day 15. Collected OC were classified as follows: Grade 1, several layers of cumulus cells (CC) and homogeneous OC cytoplasm; Grade 2, 1 to 3 layers of CC; Grade 3, denuded OC; Grade 4, expanded CC or degenerated OC. The OC that were classified as Grade 1 to 3 were matured in vitro for 20–22 h and then inseminated with 3 × 106 sperm mL–1 for 6 h. Then presumptive zygotes were cultured in 5% newborn calf serum + CR1aa for 216 h in micro-well culture dishes (Dai, Nippon, Japan). Cows were assigned to groups of 4 with each pair placed into 1 of the treatments, and groups switched at ≥40 days of interval for crossover trials. To compare the quality of OC derived from CL ipsilateral FL and CL contralateral FL, the OC were subdivided in CL ipsilateral group (ipsi-CL) and CL contralateral group (contra-CL) in the non-PG. In addition, half of the data from PG were regarded as unilateral ovary (regression CL group; reg-CL). Statistical analysis was carried by Student’s t-test, Tukey’s test, Fisher’s exact probability test, and chi-squared test. Part of data was log-transformed. At OPU, all cows in the non-PG group had an observed CL, and the average diameter of the CL was 16 ± 0.1 mm in the long axis and short; all cows in the PG were observed to not have a CL. In PG and non-PG, there were no significant differences in the number of FL ≥ 5 mm, the rate of cleavage, or the rate of blastocyst (BL) formation (17 ± 2.0 v. 20.8 ± 2.6, 82.7 ± 5.6% v. 86.1 ± 3.9% and 53.4 ± 5.9% v. 62.1 ± 4.7%, respectively). The number of BL tended to increase in non-PG cows compared with PG cows (10.0 ± 1.2 v. 7.8 ± 0.9; P = 0.078). The number of BL rated as Code 1 or 2 (IETS code) was higher in non-PG cows than in PG cows (76 v. 46; P < 0.01). In ipsi-CL, contra-CL, and reg-CL, statistical differences were observed between the rate of Grade 1 to 2 OC and groups; the rate of Grade 1 to 2 OC was higher in ipsi-CL (93.8 v. 79.0 v. 86.7; P < 0.01). These results suggested that the presence of CL for the duration of FG did not affect the rate of cleavage and BL formation but may have improved efficiency of embryo production by increasing quality of OC and BL.

96 EFFICIENT PRODUCTION OF MONOZYGOTIC TWIN BOVINE EMBRYOS USING BLASTOMERE SEPARATION TECHNIQUE WITH COMMERCIAL WELL OF THE WELL CULTURE DISH

Monozygotic twin embryos can be produced using the technique of blastomere separation and well of the well (WOW) dish having handmade micro-wells by the needle depression (Tagawa et al. 2008). We have recently reported that developed commercial WOW dish enhances embryo competence in individual culture (Sugimura et al. 2010). The present study was conducted to evaluate the availability of commercial WOW dish for production of monozygotic twin embryos in bovine. Embryos were produced using oocytes from ovaries collected at an abattoir by IVM, IVF, and IVC. For each culture, TCM-199 supplemented with 5% calf serum (CS), Brackett-Oliphant solution supplemented with 10 mg mL–1 BSA, and CR1aa containing 5% CS were used. To evaluate the adaptability of dishes on culture of isolated blastomeres from different cell stage, 2- (n = 63), 4- (n = 94), 8- (n = 137), and 10- to 14- (n = 116) cell stages were obtained on 24–27 h, 30–36 h, 48–54 h, and 48–54 h from the beginning of fertilization, respectively. The zona pellucida was removed by exposure of 0.25% pronase, followed by gentle pipetting by inspiration and expiration in the IVC medium. Then, two halves separated from the original number of blastomeres were randomly allocated to the conical micro-wells of commercial dish (Dai Nippon Printing, Tokyo, Japan) or created micro-wells by pressing the bottom of the dish with an eyeleteer (control). The approximate diameter and depth of each 25 wells in a commercial dish was 287 and 168 μm, and each 20 wells in the control were 800 and 600 μm. The blastomeres were cultured in wells covered with a droplet of 2.5 μL well–1 IVC medium until Day 8 (IVF = Day 0). Expanded blastocysts (n = 28) derived from tetra-blastomeres of 8-cell stage were stained to determine the number of the inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE) in each group. Statistical significance of the blastocyst formation rates and the number of cells were analysed by the chi-square test and the Student’s t-test, respectively. In the 2-cell stage, blastocyst formation rate in commercial dish tended to be higher than that in the control (60.0% v. 46.1%). The rate of monozygotic blastocyst pairs in commercial dish was higher compared with the control (48.0% v. 26.3%, P < 0.05). In the 4-cell stage, rates of blastocyst formation (50.0% v. 33.0%, P < 0.05) and the pairs (39.5% v. 12.5%, P < 0.01) in the commercial dish, both were higher compared with the control. In the 8-cell stage, there were no differences between two groups in rates of blastocyst formation (53.1% v. 59.0%) and the pairs (41.8% v. 48.7%), similarly in the 10- to 14-cell stage (47.9% v. 56.8% and 36.2% v. 40.9%, respectively). The ICM, TE, and total cell numbers were not different between the commercial and the control dish (28.0 ± 3.2 v. 26.0 ± 3.8, 64.6 ± 4.3 v. 76.0 ± 7.9, and 92.6 ± 6.2 v. 102.0 ± 11.0, respectively). These results indicate that separated blastomeres could be developed to blastocysts efficiently and stably regardless of embryo cell stage with a commercial WOW culture dish.

Expression, purification, crystallization and X-ray diffraction studies of the molecular chaperone prefoldin from Homo sapiens

Proper protein folding is an essential process for all organisms. Prefoldin (PFD) is a molecular chaperone that assists protein folding by delivering non-native proteins to group II chaperonin. A heterohexamer of eukaryotic PFD has been shown to specifically recognize and deliver non-native actin and tubulin to chaperonin-containing TCP-1 (CCT), but the mechanism of specific recognition is still unclear. To determine its crystal structure, recombinant human PFD was reconstituted, purified and crystallized. X-ray diffraction data were collected to 4.7 Å resolution. The crystals belonged to space group P21212, with unit-cell parameters a = 123.2, b = 152.4, c = 105.9 Å.

235 DEVELOPMENT OF IN VIVO-MATURED OOCYTES COLLECTED FROM JAPANESE BLACK CATTLE STIMULATED WITH DIFFERENT DURATIONS OF FOLLICULAR GROWTH

We demonstrated that in vivo-matured oocytes (mOC) collected by ovum-pick up (OPU) from cows after stimulation of follicular growth (FG) are suitable for producing good quality blastocysts (BL). However, it is not known whether duration of FG affects developmental competence of mOC. The purpose of this study was to examine development of mOC after stimulation with different duration of FG. Japanese black donor cows (n = 4 per each group), were treated with a CIDR at Day 0. Follicle of diameter >8 mm were removed on Day 5. A total 20 AU of FSH was administrated to cows twice daily with decreasing doses from the evening of Day 6 to the morning of Day 10. In the conventional group (48PG), a administration of PGF2α (0.75 mg of cloprostenol), CIDR withdrawal, and administration of GnRH (0.2 mg of fertirelin acetate) were performed on the evening of Day 8, morning of Day 9, and morning of Day 10, respectively. In the experimental group (72PG), administration of PGF2a, CIDR withdrawal, and administration of GnRH were performed on the evening of Day 9, the morning of Day 10, and the morning of Day 11, respectively. The mOC were collected from follicles >5 mm by OPU at 25 to 26 h following GnRH administration. Collected mOC were inseminated with 3 × 106 sperm mL–1 in BO solution on 30 h after GnRH. After 6 h of IVF, presumptive zygotes were cultured for 168 h in 5% CS + CR1aa, using a micro-well culture dish (Dai-Nippon-Print) and time-lapse cinematography (CCM-1.4MZS; Astec) for individual embryo observation. The kinetics of early embryo was analysis by CCM-1.4 software. To assess the quality of BL, prognostic factors were used as follows: (1) less than 27 hpi (hours post-insemination) at the first cleavage (1st CD), (2) 2 blastomeres at the end of 1st CD, and (3) absence of multiple fragments at the end of the 1st CD (Sugimura et al. 2012 PLoS ONE 7, e36627; Imai et al. 2014 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 26, 182). Data were analysed by Student's t-test or chi-square test. The number of mOC were 12.5 ± 4.7 and 10.3 ± 2.7 (means ± s.e.) oocytes per session in 48PG and 72PG. There was no significant difference in cleavage rate or BL formation rate (97.5 ± 1.5 v. 98.2 ± 1.8%, 66.3 ± 8.2 v. 66.8 ± 3.5%, respectively). The time for 1st CD was shorter in 48PG (26.1 ± 0.3 v. 27.8 ± 0.4; P < 0.01), and the rate of 1st CD less than 27 hpi was superior in 48PG compared with 72PG (74.3 v. 42.9%; P < 0.05). However, the rate of 2 blastomeres and absence of multiple fragments were not different between 48PG and 72PG. The number of BL tended to decrease in 72PG compared with 48PG (28.6 v. 48.6%; P = 0.087). These results indicate that duration of FG did not affect the rate of cleavage and BL formation. However, extension of duration of FG might reduce the quality of BL.

138 COMPARISON OF KINETICS AND PATTERNS OF THE FIRST CLEAVAGE OF IN VIVO AND IN VITRO-MATURED HOLSTEIN OOCYTES AFTER IN VITRO FERTILIZATION WITH X-SORTED SPERM

Previously, it was reported that a high rate of good quality blastocysts were produced by IVF of in vivo-matured oocytes, obtained by ovum pick up (OPU) after superstimulation in Holstein cows, using X-sorted sperm (Matoba et al. 2012 Reprod. Domest. Anim. 47, 515). In this system, an early first cleavage within 28 h after IVF was found to be a potent marker for the selection of embryos with high developmental competence (Matoba et al. 2013 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 25, 266). However, we have limited knowledge on the timing and normality of embryonic cleavages in in vitro-matured oocytes after IVF. The purpose of the present study was to compare the kinetics and patterns of the first cleavage of in vivo- and in vitro-matured bovine oocytes after IVF with X-sorted sperm. In vivo-matured oocytes (Group A) were collected by OPU from non-lactating Holstein cows just before ovulation after superstimulation. Immature oocytes were either collected by OPU without hormonal treatment or by aspiration of ovaries at the local abattoir and matured in vitro (Group B or C). All the oocytes were inseminated with 5 × 106 sperm mL–1 of X-sorted sperm, except half of oocytes in Group C inseminated by non-sorted sperm (Group D) and cultured in CR1aa supplemented with 5% calf serum and 0.25 mg mL–1 of linoleic acid albumin at 38.5°C in 5% CO2, 5% O2, and 90% N2 for 216 h. Embryo kinetics were observed individually using a microwell culture dish and time-lapse cinematography (Sugimura et al. 2010 Biol. Reprod. 83, 970–978). Photographs of each embryo were taken in every 15 min during the IVC period and analysed by time-lapse cinematography software. Cleavage pattern was categorized as normal (2 even blastomeres without fragment or protrusion) or abnormal (2 uneven blastomeres, with fragment or protrusion and those dividing into 3–5 blastomeres) at the first cleavage. Data were analysed by ANOVA, chi-squared, or discriminant function. A total of 268 cleaved embryos were used. The blastocyst rate in Group A was higher than in Groups B and C (61.3 v. 40.0 and 25.0%, respectively; P < 0.05). The timing of first cleavage was longer in Group A compared with Groups C and D (28.3 ± 3.8 v. 27.6 ± 3.8 and 26.7 ± 1.9 h, respectively) and in Group B (28.1 ± 4.0 h) compared with in Group D (P < 0.05). Higher rates of normal cleavage were observed in Groups A, B, and D than in Group C (53.5, 44.4, and 54.8 v. 16.7%, respectively; P < 0.01). The frequency of blastocysts derived from the early (28.3 h) and normal pattern cleaving oocytes were greater in Groups A and B than in Group C (29.0 and 20.0 v. 8.3%, respectively; P < 0.05) and similar in Group D (22.6%). Our results reveal that IVF embryos produced from in vivo-matured oocytes with sex-sorted sperm had superior normality than those produced from in vitro-matured oocytes and similar normality to embryos inseminated with non-sorted sperm. Supported by the Research and Development projects for application in promoting new policy of agriculture, forestry and fisheries (22016) and by JSPS and HAS under the Japan-Hungary Research Cooperative Program.

137 EFFECTS OF X-SORTED SPERM IN QUALITY OF BOVINE BLASTOCYST DERIVED FROM IN VIVO-MATURED OOCYTES

Recently, we reported on a promising system for selecting healthy IVF embryos in cattle using kinetics of early embryo development and oxygen consumption of blastocyst [Sugimura et al. 2012 PLoS ONE 7, e36627]. The present study was conducted to examine the differences in embryo quality of bovine blastocysts obtained after IVF of in vivo-matured oocytes with X-sorted and unsorted sperm. Holstein dry cows (n = 8) were reared under the same feeding and environmental conditions. Two ovum pickup (OPU) sessions were conducted in each cow to fertilize with or without X-sorted sperm. In vivo-matured oocytes were collected by OPU just before ovulation after superstimulation treatment. The oocytes were inseminated with 5 × 106 sperm mL–1 of each sperm, and presumptive zygotes were cultured in CR1aa supplemented with 5% newborn calf serum and 0.25 mg mL–1 of linolenic acid albumin at 38.5 C in 5% CO2, 5% O2, and 90% N2 for 168 h. Embryo kinetics were observed individually using a microwell culture dish (Dai-Nippon Print) and time-lapse cinematography (CCM-1.4MZS; Astec, Fukuoka, Japan; Sugimura et al. 2010 Biol. Reprod. 83, 970–978). Photographs of each embryo were taken every 15 min during the in vitro culture period and images were analysed by CCM-1.4 software (Astec). By assessing the quality of blastocysts, a combination of identified prognostic factors were used: (1) timing of the first cleavage (less than 27 h post-insemination); (2) two blastomeres at the end of the first cleavage; (3) absence of fragments at the end of the first cleavage; and (4) six or more blastomeres at the onset of the lag-phase. Data were analysed by ANOVA. In total, 34.1 ± 18.4 oocytes per session per donor were collected by OPU, and 23.7 ± 13.4 oocytes had an expanded cumulus cell. Oocyte recovery rates were recorded at 77.1 ± 15.1%. After IVF and in vitro culture, 10.6 ± 7.7 blastocysts per session per donor were produced in this study. There was no significantly difference in cleavage rates and blastocyst formation rates between X-sorted sperm and unsorted sperm (87.1 ± 10.8 and 82.6 ± 12.1% and 38.4 ± 23.6 and 57.1 ± 23.4%, respectively). However, blastocysts derived from X-sorted sperm showed significantly (P < 0.05) lower quality in the prognostic factor (1) and combined (1) to (4) than that in unsorted sperm (35.3 v. 54.0 and 14.7 v. 42.9%, respectively). Pregnancy rates were higher for the blastocysts that had a high score in the prognostic factors (1) to (4) compared to those that had a low score (75.0%, n = 8 v. 36.4%, n = 22). These results suggest that quality of blastocysts, based on the prognostic factors studied, derived from X-sorted sperm is lower than that from unsorted sperm. Supported by the Research and Development projects for application in promoting new policy of agriculture, forestry and fisheries (22016).

141 SUPERIORITY OF FEMALE EMBRYO PRODUCTION SYSTEM BY IN VIVO-MATURED OOCYTE AND X-SORTED SPERM IN BROWN SWISS COWS

Embryo transfer using a female embryo is an effective tool for offspring production on dairy industry; however, embryo production by embryo recovery (ER) using X-sorted semen is not sufficient because non-fertilized oocytes are recovered frequently. In Holstein cows, we developed a system for high blastocyst production that was performed by IVF using X-sorted sperm and in vivo-matured oocytes obtained by ovum pickup (OPU) after superstimulation. The purpose of this study was to adjust this system to Brown Swiss cows, comparing between ER and embryo production from oocytes derived from OPU with or without superstimulation. In the ER group, cows (n = 10) received a CIDR (Day 0) and 2 mg of oestradiol-benzoate on Day 1. A total of 30 Armour Units of FSH were injected into cows twice a day, with decreasing doses from the evening of Day 5 to the morning of Day 9. On the evening of Day 7 or 8, 0.75 mg of prostaglandin F2α (cloprostenol) was injected. The CIDR was removed on Day 8 or 9 and 0.2 mg of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH; fertirelin acetate) were injected on Day 9 or 10. At oestrus, AI was carried out twice, 12 h apart, with a total of 4 straws of X-sorted semen per cow. In the OPU group, cows (n = 7) were subjected to OPU without any pretreatment, collected immature oocytes were in vivo matured for 20 to 22 h, followed by IVF using X-sorted sperm for 6 h; then, presumptive zygotes were in vitro cultured (IVC) for 9 days. In the in vivo-matured oocyte group (matured group), a CIDR was inserted (Day 0) in cows (n = 4), all follicles larger than 8 mm were removed on Day 5. Administration of FSH, prostaglandin F2α, and GnRH, as well as withdrawal of CIDR, were performed as in the ER group. In vivo-matured oocytes were collected from follicles larger than 5 mm by OPU at 25 to 26 h following GnRH injection; collected oocytes with expanded cumulus cells were fertilized with X-sorted sperm 30 h after GnRH. After 6 h of IVF, presumptive zygotes were transferred to in vitro culture, as in the OPU group. Data were compared among 3 groups; the ER group was analysed for number of CL, collected embryos, and normal embryos, against the number of aspirated follicles, collected oocytes used for IVF, and formed blastocysts in the OPU and matured groups, respectively, by Tukey-kramer test after ANOVA. There were no differences between the number of CL in the ER group and the number of follicles in the OPU and matured groups (16.4 ± 5.3 v. 31.6 ± 22.7 v. 18.5 ± 4.7, mean ± s.d., respectively). Also the number of collected embryos in the ER group and number of oocytes for IVF in the OPU and matured groups (12.8 ± 7.6 v. 14.9 ± 11.8 v. 17.8 ± 7.7, respectively) was similar. However, the number of blastocysts in the matured group (13.0 ± 5.9; P < 0.01) was higher than that in the OPU group (3.0 ± 2.2) and in the ER group (2.8 ± 3.7). For female embryo production in Brown Swiss cows using X-sorted sperm, the system of IVF with in vivo matured oocytes obtained by OPU is more effective than ER or OPU without pretreatment.

252 EFFECT OF SUPERSTIMULATORY TREATMENT TO DONOR COWS IN OXYGEN CONSUMPTION OF MATURED OOCYTES

We previously reported that follicular wave synchronization and follicular growth treatment (FGT) before ovum pick-up (OPU) were effective in improving oocyte competence, which was associated with an increase in related embryos obtained by somatic cell nuclear transfer (Sugimura et al. 2012 Cell. Reprogram. 14, 29–37). However, oxygen consumption in oocytes remained unknown. The present study was designed to examine the differences in oxygen consumption between bovine oocytes obtained by OPU with or without FGT after in vitro maturation. Holstein dry cows (n = 8) were reared under the same feeding and environmental conditions. Two OPU sessions were conducted in each cow to collect immature oocytes, as described by Sugimura et al. (2012). The first OPU session (OPU group) was performed in cows on arbitrary days of the oestrous cycle, using a 7.5-MHz linear transducer with the needle connected to an ultrasound scanner. Follicles larger than 8 mm in diameter were then aspirated and a controlled internal drug release device (CIDR) was inserted on Day 5 (the day of the first OPU session = Day 0). Then 30 Armour units (AU) of FSH (Antrin, Kyoritsu Seiyaku, Tokyo, Japan) was administrated to cows twice a day from Day 7 to 10 in decreasing doses (6, 6, 4, 4, 3, 3, 2, 2 AU day–1). Cloprostenol (prostaglandin F2α; 0.75 mg) was administered in the morning of Day 9. The second OPU session (FGT-OPU group) was performed 48 h after prostaglandin F2α administration (Day 11), and only follicles larger than 5 mm in diameter were aspirated. The CIDR was removed from the cows just before OPU. Collected cumulus–oocyte complexes in the OPU and FGT-OPU groups were matured in vitro as described by Imai et al. [2006 J. Reprod. Dev. 52(Suppl.), S19–S29]. To collect in vivo-matured oocytes (control group), the CIDR was inserted into the cows on arbitrary days of the oestrous cycle (= Day 0), and oestradiol benzoate (0.8 mg) was administered on Day 1. The cows received the FGT treatment (as described above) from Day 6 to 10; however, the CIDR was removed in the evening of Day 8. Buserelin (gonadotropin-releasing hormone; 200 µg) was then administrated in the morning of Day 10, and OPU was performed at 24 h after gonadotropin-releasing hormone administration (Day 11). Oxygen consumption of matured oocytes was measured noninvasively with a scanning electron microscopy system (HV-405SP; Hokuto Denko Co., Tokyo, Japan). Data were analysed by ANOVA followed by a Tukey-Kramer test. There was no difference in the mean oxygen consumption between the FGT-OPU group (0.34 ± 0.02 × 10–14 mol–1, mean ± SEM) and control group (0.40 ± 0.01 × 10–14 mol–1). However, oxygen consumption in the FGT-OPU and control groups was significantly lower (P < 0.01) than that in the OPU group (0.50 ± 0.02 × 10–14 mol–1). These results revealed significantly lower oxygen consumption in OPU-derived in vitro-matured bovine oocytes after FGT treatment compared with those obtained without FGT treatment. Oxygen consumption of oocytes obtained from FGT-OPU was similar to that of in vivo-matured oocytes, which may reflect their cytoplasmic maturation status with high developmental competence.

236 KINETICS AND PATTERN OF THE FIRST CLEAVAGE OF IN VITRO-FERTILIZED EMBRYOS BY IN VIVO-MATURED OOCYTES AND X-SORTED SPERMATOZOA IN DAIRY CATTLE

Recently, we reported that high rates of good-quality blastocysts can be produced by IVF of in vivo-matured oocytes, obtained by ovum pick-up (OPU) after superstimulation in Holstein cows, with X-sorted sperm [Matoba et al. 2012 Reprod. Domest. Anim. 47(Suppl. 4), 515]. However, we have limited knowledge concerning the normality of embryonic cleavages in such embryos. The present study examined their kinetics and pattern of the first cell cycle. In vivo-matured oocytes were collected by OPU from non-lactating Holstein cows just before ovulation after superstimulation and ovulation induction by gonadotropin-releasing hormone. The oocytes were inseminated with 5 × 106 sperm mL–1 of X-sorted sperm and cultured in CR1aa supplemented with 5% newborn calf serum and 0.25 mg mL–1 of linoleic acid albumin at 38.5°C in 5% CO2, 5% O2, and 90% N2 for 216 h. Embryo kinetics were observed individually using a microwell culture dish and time-lapse cinematography (CCM-1.4MZS, Astec, Fukuoka, Japan) (Sugimura et al. 2010 Biol. Reprod. 83, 970–978). Photographs of each embryo were taken every 15 min during the in vitro culture period, and images were analysed by CCM-1.4 software (Astec). The cleavage pattern was categorised into normal cleavage (2 even blastomeres without fragment or protrusion) or abnormal cleavage (those with 2 uneven blastomeres, with fragments or protrusions and those dividing into 3 to 5 blastomeres at the first cleavage). Data were analysed by ANOVA, chi-square, and discriminant function. A total of 117 embryos were examined; of this number, 63.2% developed to the blastocyst stage and the rest were degenerated. A high rate of normal cleavage and a low rate of abnormal cleavage, including those with 2 uneven blastomeres and those with fragments or protrusions in the first cleavage pattern, were recorded in embryos that could develop to blastocysts compared with degenerated ones (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05, respectively; Table 1). No significant difference was found in those dividing into 3 to 5 blastomeres between the blastocysts and degenerated embryos (Table 1). Embryos developing to the blastocyst stage had a shorter duration of the first cell cycle [27.2 ± 2.3 h post-insemination (hpi)] compared with those undergoing degeneration (30.6 ± 5.7 hpi; P < 0.001). The threshold of duration of the first cell cycle was calculated by (X – 27.2)/2.3 = (30.6 – X)/5.7, resulting in X = 28.2. Blastocysts with a short duration of the first cell cleavage (≤28.2 hpi) showed a higher frequency of the normal cleavage pattern than those with a duration of the first cell cleavage longer than 28.2 hpi (71.7 and 53.6%, respectively; P < 0.05). Our results revealed that those IVF embryos that finished their first cleavage before 28.2 h of IVF and showed a normal cleavage pattern had superior developmental competence. Table 1.The first cleavege pattern reflects the developmental competence: blastocysts versus degenerated embryos This work was supported by the Research and Development Projects for Application in Promoting New Policy of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (22016).

Nonequivalence observed for the 16-meric structure of a small heat shock protein, SpHsp16.0, from Schizosaccharomyces pombe

Small heat shock proteins (sHsps) play a role in preventing the fatal aggregation of denatured proteins in the presence of stresses. The sHsps exist as monodisperse oligomers in their resting state. Because the hydrophobic N-terminal regions of sHsps are possible interaction sites for denatured proteins, the manner of assembly of the oligomer is critical for the activation and inactivation mechanisms. Here, we report the oligomer architecture of SpHsp16.0 from Schizosaccharomyces pombe determined with X-ray crystallography and small angle X-ray scattering. Both results indicate that eight dimers of SpHsp16.0 form an elongated sphere with 422 symmetry. The monomers show nonequivalence in the interaction with neighboring monomers and conformations of the N- and C-terminal regions. Variants for the N-terminal phenylalanine residues indicate that the oligomer formation ability is highly correlated with chaperone activity. Structural and biophysical results are discussed in terms of their possible relevance to the activation mechanism of SpHsp16.0.

159 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CLEAVAGE PATTERNS OF FIRST CELL CYCLE AND POST-TRANSFER VIABILITY IN BOVINE EMBRYOS OBTAINED BY OVUM PICKUP AND IN VITRO FERTILIZATION

More than 300 000 embryos have been transferred all over the world (Stroud 2010 IETS Newsl. 27(4), 11–21). We have reported that embryos that showed the abnormal cleavage pattern at the first cell division can develop to the blastocyst stage (Somfai et al. 2010 J. Reprod. Dev. 56, 200–207). However, we have limited knowledge about the consequences of the pattern of first embryonic cleavage on their post-transfer developmental competence. The present study was conducted to determine the developmental competence of bovine blastocysts showing different cleavage patterns at their first cell division. Cumulus–oocyte complexes were collected by ovum pickup from Japanese Black cows and were subjected to in vitro maturation and IVF as reported previously (Imai et al. 2006 J. Reprod. Dev. 52, S19–S29 suppl). Inseminated oocytes were cultured in CR1aa medium supplemented with 5% calf serum covered by mineral oil at 38.5°C in 5% CO2 in air with micro-droplets or 5% CO2, 5% O2 and 90% N2. The kinetics of embryo development were analysed by time-lapse cinematography for 168 h after IVF by using a Cultured Cell Monitoring System (CCM-M1.4ZS, Astec, Fukuoka, Japan). A total of 673 photographs of each embryo were taken (1 photograph in every 15 min) during in vitro culture. Image stacks were analysed by the CCM-M1.4 software. Embryos were classified in 5 groups according to the pattern of first cleavage as normal cleavage (NC), direct cleavage from 1 cell to 3 to 4 blastomeres (3–4BL), unequal blastomeres (UB), multiple fragments (MF) and protrusion formation (PT). Blastocysts developing from each group were transferred into the ipsilateral uterine horn of each synchronized recipient on Day 7 or 8 after oestrus. Data on conception at Day 60, abortion and delivery were then recorded. Data were analysed by chi-square test and Student's t-test. In total, 43 embryos were transferred, 17 conceptions (39.5%) were established and 16 recipients (94.1%) were delivered. Only 1 abortion was detected at Day 223 in the NC group. The highest conception rate was observed in the NC group (55%, n = 20) and the 3–4BL (n = 12), UB (n = 6) and PT (n = 3) groups showed similar conception rates of 33.3% (1 implanted embryo belonged to 2 classes in UB and PT) and none of the embryos derived from the MF group (n = 3) could cause conception. There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in conception rates between the NC group and totals of each of the other cleavage groups. No significant difference was found in gestation lengths and birth weights between the NC group (282.2 ± 4.4 days, 30.6 ± 3.8 kg, respectively) and totals of each of the other cleavage groups (282.8 ± 5.3 days, 30.3 ± 1.9 kg, respectively). These results indicate that embryos showing abnormal cleavage patterns at first cell division can develop to normal calves with normal gestation lengths and birth weights; however, their post-transfer viability is lower than for NC embryos. This work was supported by the Research and Development Program for New Bio-industry Initiatives.

158 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FOURTH CELL CYCLE DURATION AND POST-TRANSFER VIABILITY IN IN VITRO-FERTILIZED BOVINE EMBRYOS

In cattle, the prediction of embryonic viability after embryo transfer is an important research target. A previous study has indicated that the duration of the fourth cell cycle at the time of maternal-zygotic transition, which is involved in in vitro embryonic development, may be an indicator of blastocyst formation; this study showed that embryos with a short fourth cell cycle have a better potential of developing into blastocysts than those with a long fourth cell cycle (Lequarre et al. 2003 Biol. Reprod. 69, 1707–1713). However, the relationship between the fourth cell cycle duration and post-transfer viability of embryos is unclear. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of the fourth cell cycle duration on embryo development after embryo transfer. Twenty-five IVF bovine embryos were cultured in well-of-the-well culture dishes contained 125 μ of CR1aa supplemented with 5% calf serum at 38.5°C in 5% O2 and 5% CO2 for 168 h after insemination. In vitro development of the embryos was monitored using time-lapse cinematography (Sugimura et al. 2010 Biol. Reprod. 83, 970–978). We found that 61% of the blastocysts had a long fourth cell cycle (41.5 ± 5.9 h), which is commonly referred to as the lag phase, whereas the remaining embryos had a short fourth cell cycle (7.4 ± 4.5 h). All the embryos with a short fourth cell cycle exhibited a lag phase in the next cell cycle (32.9 ± 6.6 h). Moreover, embryos with a short fourth cell cycle were found to have a higher blastocyst rate (75.8%) than those with a long fourth cell cycle (48.1%; Student's t-test, P < 0.01). However, embryonic cell number, apoptosis incidence, chromosomal abnormality and O2 consumption were found to be identical between the 2 groups (Student's t-test, P > 0.05). Real-time reverse-transcription PCR results of the individual blastocysts showed that the relative expression of 5 genes related to pregnancy reorganization, placentation and fetal growth—namely, CDX2, IFN-τ, PLAC8, AKR1B1 and IGF2R—did not differ between the 2 groups (Student's t-test, P > 0.05). Furthermore, blastocysts derived from embryos with long (n = 30) and short (n = 19) fourth cell cycles were transferred into 49 recipient cows; we did not observe any difference between the long and short fourth cell cycles on the rates of pregnancy (long vs short fourth cell cycle, 30.0 vs 52.6%) and delivery (long vs short fourth cell cycle, 30.0 vs 47.4%; Yates' corrected chi-square test, P > 0.10). These results show that blastocysts derived from embryos with either long or short fourth cell cycles have identical developmental competence after embryo transfer. Therefore, the fourth cell cycle duration during maternal-zygotic transition appears to be unavailable as the indicator of post-transfer viability of IVF bovine embryos. This work was supported by the Research and Developmental Program for New Bio-Industry Initiatives.

Culture of bovine embryos in polyester mesh sections: the effect of pore size and oxygen tension on in vitro development

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility of polyester mesh culture for the in vitro production of bovine embryos, as polyester mesh is an alternative way for tracking individual embryos throughout culture using time-lapse cinematography (TLC). Bovine embryos were isolated during in vitro culture using sections of three different polyethylene terephthalate (PET) mesh products. In vitro matured and fertilized bovine oocytes were cultured in the 217 × 217, 230 × 230 or 238 × 238-μm openings of PET mesh sections or in simple micro-drops (control) for 7 days under either 20% or 5% O(2) tensions. No difference in embryo developmental rates was found between the culture groups in terms of cleavage, blastocyst formation and blastocyst expansion irrespective of O(2) tension. In contrast, under 20% O(2) tension, blastocysts that developed in PET mesh with 217 × 217-μm opening had significantly higher numbers of total and trophectoderm (TE) cells than control embryos; however, the numbers and proportions of inner cell mass (ICM) cells did not differ. Under 5% O(2) tension, no difference was found among the culture groups in the numbers of total, ICM and TE cells in embryos. All three PET mesh products investigated in this study were proven to be effective to prevent embryo movement. The results demonstrate that bovine embryos can be cultured in PET mesh sections without negative side-effects and suggest that embryo distance determined by the mesh affects embryo quality at atmospheric oxygen tension. Polyethylene terephthalate mesh with 217 × 217-μm openings was found to be the most suitable for further application in TLC.

138 TIME-LAPSE CINEMATOGRAPHY-COMPATIBLE INJECTION-MOLDED MICROWELL CULTURE SYSTEM FOR TRACKING THE DEVELOPMENT OF INDIVIDUAL BOVINE EMBRYOS

We have developed a polystyrene-based well of-the-well system (WOW) using injection moulding to track individual embryos throughout culture using time-lapse cinematography (TLC). The WOW-cultured bovine embryos following in vitro fertilization (IVF) were compared with conventional droplet (control)-cultured embryos on in vitro and in vivo development. Twenty-five of zygotes were cultured in each culture system containing 125 μL of CR1aa medium supplemented with 5% calf serum for 168 h after IVF. No differences between control- and WOW-cultured embryos were observed during development to the blastocyst stage. Morphological quality, inner cell mass (ICM), and trophectoderm (TE) cell numbers and post-vitrification survival rates were not different between control- and WOW-derived blastocysts; however, incidence of apoptosis in the ICM and TE cells was reduced in WOW culture (P < 0.01). Oxygen consumption in WOW-derived blastocysts was closer to physiological level than that of control-derived blastocysts. Moreover, WOW culture improved embryo viability, as indicated by increased pregnancy rates at days 30 and 60 after embryo transfer (P < 0.05). The TLC monitoring was performed to evaluate the cleavage pattern and the duration of the first cell cycle of embryos from oocytes collected by ovum pick-up; correlations with success of pregnancy were determined. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the cleavage pattern correlated with success of pregnancy (P < 0.05), but cell cycle length did not. Higher pregnancy rates (66.7%) were observed for animals in which transferred blastocysts had undergone normal cleavage, identified by the presence of 2 blastomeres of the same size without fragmentation, than among those with abnormal cleavage (33.3%). These results suggest that our microwell culture system is a powerful tool for producing and selecting healthy embryos and for identifying viability biomarkers. This work was supported by the Research and Developmental Program for New Bio-Industry Initiatives.

212 EFFECT OF CONSECUTIVE SUPERSTIMULATORY TREATMENT-INDUCED FOLLICULAR WAVE SYNCHRONIZATION TO OPTIMIZE OOCYTE RETRIEVAL AND EMBRYO PRODUCTION BY OVUM PICKUP AND IN VITRO FERTILIZATION IN COWS

We previously reported that superstimulatory (SS) treatment-induced follicular wave synchronization after ovum pickup (OPU) was effective in enhancing the quality of obtained oocytes and blastocysts derived from in vitro maturation (IVM) and fertilization (IVF; Imai et al. 2010 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 22, 296). The present study was designed to examine the efficiency of embryo production by 4 sessions of OPU-IVF using a series of the SS treatment-induced follicular wave synchronizations. For the SS protocols, 3 consecutive SS (3CSS) and 2 separated SS (2SSS) were used. In the 3CSS group, the first OPU was performed on random days of the oestrous cycle (Day 0) and all follicles larger than 2 mm in diameter were aspirated. On Day 5, follicles larger than 8 mm in diameter were aspirated and a CIDR (InterAg, Hamilton, New Zealand) was inserted. The cows then received 20 armour units of FSH (Kawasaki-Seiyaku, Kawasaki, Japan) in twice-daily decreasing doses by IM injection from Day 7 to 10. Cloprostenol (PGF; 0.75 mg, Fujita-Pharm, Tokyo, Japan) was administered on the morning of Day 9. The second OPU was performed 48 h after PGF administration on Day 11; the CIDR was removed from the cows just before OPU. After the second OPU, donors were treated consecutively with the SS protocol mentioned above for the third and fourth OPU sessions. In the 2SSS group, donors received 2 sets of the SS treatment mentioned above, with an interval of 11 days between the second and the third OPU session. Four OPU sessions were performed every 11 days on all cows. In this study, 8 Japanese Black cows were divided into the 3CSS and 2SSS groups, and the treatment for each group was reversed after a 65-day interval as crossover trials. After OPU, Grade 1 and 2 oocytes were used for IVM and IVF, and putative zygotes were cultured as described by (Imai et al. 2006 J. Reprod. Dev. 52, S19–S29 suppl.). A part of the zygotes were cultured in a micro-well system. Data were analysed by Student’s t-test and chi-square test. There were differences (P < 0.05) in the mean (±SD) number of follicles, collected oocytes, and cultured oocytes in the 3CSS (35.0 ± 8.6 and 24.4 ± 11.2, respectively) and 2SSS (30.8 ± 10.5 and 20.2 ± 9.0, respectively) groups. There were no differences in mean percentage of blastocyst formation and Grade 1 blastocyst rates between the 3CSS (38.5 and 55.8%, respectively) and 2SSS (34.8 and 54.8%, respectively) groups. However, the mean number of blastocysts produced per OPU session was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the 3CSS group (8.1 ± 6.3) compared with the 2SSS group (5.8 ± 4.4). These results indicate that a series of 3 consecutive SS treatments had greater efficiency in producing OPU-IVF embryos. This work was supported in part by the Research and Development Program for New Bio-industry Initiatives.

154 THE EFFECT OF OXYGEN TENSION ON IN VITRO DEVELOPMENT OF BOVINE EMBRYOS IN POLYDIMETHYLSILOXANE-BASED WELL OF THE WELL DISHES PREPARED UNDER ATMOSPHERIC OR REDUCED AIR PRESSURE

Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is a non-toxic silicon compound. Its excellent optical characteristics and easy preparation make it a good candidate material for the molding of custom-shaped dishes for embryo culture. We investigated the feasibility of PDMS-based well of the well (WOW) dishes for in vitro culture of bovine embryos under different oxygen tensions. The WOW dishes with 25 micro-wells (each of 175 μm depth and 250 μm width in diameter arranged in 5 columns and 5 rows) were molded from PDMS prepared either under atmospheric (Experiment 1) or reduced (0.1 MPa) (Experiment 2) air pressure to remove air bubbles. Presumptive zygotes obtained by the in vitro maturation and fertilization of follicular oocytes were placed and cultured for 7 days in traditional micro-drops of culture medium (Control) or in the micro-wells of PDMS-based WOW dishes (PDMS-WOW), both covered by paraffin oil. The culture medium was CR1aa supplemented with 5% calf serum. The culture drop size was 125 μL (5 μL/oocyte) in both groups. Embryo development and blastocyst cell numbers between Control and PDMS-WOW groups were compared either under 20% or 5% O2 tensions. There was no statistical difference in cleavage and blastocyst rates (ranging between 82.3-86.4% and 34.0-45.8%, respectively) between Control and PDMS-WOW embryos irrespective of oxygen tension and dish production method. In Experiment 1, the mean total cell numbers in blastocysts were lower in the PDMS-WOW group than that in Control under 20% O2 (105.0 ± 5.5 and 130.4 ± 9.9, respectively) (P < 0.05, ANOVA); however, the application of 5% O2 significantly improved the cell numbers and eliminated the difference between the PDMS-WOW and Control groups (135.4 ± 6.2 and 148.0 ± 9.0, respectively). In Experiment 2, there was no significant difference in mean total cell numbers in blastocysts between the PDMS-WOW and Control either under 20% O2 (97.2 ± 5.7 and 103.9 ± 8.9, respectively) or 5% O2 (147.5 ± 12.1 and 157.3 ± 3.9, respectively). The numbers and rates of inner cell mass and trophectoderm cells did not differ between the Control and PDMS-WOW groups, irrespective of O2 tension and production method. Our results demonstrate that bovine embryos can develop to the blastocyst stage in PDMS-based WOW dishes; however, it may express detrimental effects on embryonic cell numbers, which can be neutralized by the application of low O2 tension during culture or reduced air pressure during the PDMS preparation. This work was supported by the Research and Development Program for New Bio-Industry Initiatives.

278 EFFECT OF FOLLICULAR WAVE SYNCHRONIZATION AND SUPERSTIMULATION ON THE NORMALITY OF BOVINE EMBRYOS PRODUCED IN VITRO

We previously reported that follicular wave synchronization by dominant follicle removal on Day 5 and the start of a superstimulatory treatment on Day 7 after ovum pick-up (OPU) was effective to increase oocyte quality (Imai et al. 2008 Reprod. Fertil. Dev. 20, 182). The present study was designed to examine the effect of superstimulatory treatment-induced follicular wave synchronization on quality of embryos obtained by OPU and in vitro production. Japanese Black cows were reared under the same feeding and environmental conditions and 2 OPU sessions were conducted in each cow. The first OPU session was performed in 7 cows at arbitrary days of estrous cycle using a 7.5-MHz linear transducer with needle connected to an ultrasound scanner. Then, follicles larger than 8 mm in diameter were aspirated and CIDR was inserted on Day 5 (the day of first OPU session = Day 0). The cows then received 30 mg of FSH twice a day from Days 7 to 10 in decreasing doses (4, 4, 3, 3, 2, 2, 1, 1 mg per shot) by i.m. injections. Cloprostenol (PGF; 0.75 mg) was administered in the morning of Day 9. The second OPU session was performed 48 h after PGF administration (Day 11) and only follicles larger than 5 mm in diameter were aspirated. The CIDR was removed from the cows just before OPU. Grade 1 and 2 cumulus oocyte complexes were in vitro matured, fertilized (IVF), and cultured as described by Imai et al. (2006 J. Reprod. Dev. 52, Suppl. S19-29). Some zygotes were fixed and stained to check their sperm penetration. Embryo development was monitored by time-lapse cinematography for 168 h after IVF. Cleavage pattern of embryos was classified morphologically into normal and abnormal (including those with multiple fragments, protrusions, 3 to 4 blastomeres, and uneven cell division) groups at their first cleavage. Normal penetration rate of second OPU session was significantly (P < 0.05) higher than that of the first OPU session. There were no differences in the mean percentage of total blastocyst and grade 1 blastocyst rates between the first (45.2 and 46.9%, respectively) and second (47.5 and 41.8%, respectively) OPU sessions. However, the rates of blastocysts developing from embryos that were beyond the 4-cell stage at 48 h after IVF was significantly (P < 0.05) higher after the second OPU session (81.2%) than after the first OPU session (67.4%). Furthermore, a significant difference (P < 0.05) was found in the rates of normal cleavage at the first cell division in embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage between the first and second OPU sessions (53.3% and 73.9%, respectively). These results indicate that superstimulatory treatment-induced follicular wave synchronization improved the normality of fertilization and development of cattle oocytes obtained by OPU. This work was supported by the Research and Development Program for New Bio-industry Initiatives.

223 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE LENGTH OF CELL CYCLES, CLEAVAGE PATTERN, AND DEVELOPMENTAL COMPETENCE DURING IN VITRO CULTURE OF IN VITRO-MATURED/IN VITRO-FERTILIZED BOVINE OOCYTES

In in vitro embryo production systems, there is a need to select embryos with good developmental competence at the early stages. This study was conducted to determine whether there was any relationship between the duration of the first 3 cell cycles, the cleavage pattern of the first cell division, and the developmental competence of embryos during in vitro culture. A total of 320 in vitro-matured and in vitro-fertilized bovine oocytes were cultured in microdrops of CR1aa medium supplemented with 5% calf serum covered by mineral oil in 5% CO2 and 20% O2 at 38.5°C. The kinetics of embryo development were measured by time-lapse cinematography. Embryos were classified according to their cleavage pattern at the first cell division. Of 285 cleaved embryos, 119 had 2 blastomeres of the same size (normal cleavage: NC), 49 had 2 blastomeres with multiple small fragments (multiple fragments: MF), 34 had 2 blastomeres and a protrusion (protrusion: PT), 45 showed direct cleavage from 1 cell to 3 or 4 blastomeres (3–4BL), and 60 oocytes cleaved to 2 blastomeres of different sizes (unequal blastomeres: UB). (Twenty-two embryos belonged to 2 classes.) After 175 h of culture, blastocysts were either subjected to differential inner cell mass/trophectoderm (ICM/TE) staining or karyotyped. The first and second cell cycles (mean ± SEM) of viable embryos (that could develop to the blastocyst stage) were significantly shorter than those of nonviable embryos (24.9 ± 0.3 h and 8.7 ± 0.1 h v. 26.6 ± 0.7 h and 10.0 ± 0.1 h, respectively); however, the length of the third cell cycle did not differ (P < 0.05, paired t-test). The duration of 1 cell stage in the NC group was significantly shorter than that of MF, PT, 3–4BL, and UB groups (24.7 ± 0.4 h, 26.6 ± 0.5 h, 26.3 ± 0.6 h, 26.0 ± 0.2 h, and 27.7 ± 0.9 h, respectively). The length of the second and third cell cycles did not differ among the groups. The percentage of NC embryos that developed to the blastocyst stage was similar to that of the 3–4BL group (66.9 and 56.7%, respectively) but was significantly higher than those of the MF, PT, and UB groups (40.5, 26.5, and 35.6%, respectively; P < 0.05, ANOVA). The mean cell numbers of NC blastocysts did not differ from those of the MF, 3–4BL, and UB groups but were higher than those of PT embryos (147.1, 155.6, 121.6, 146.4, and 115.1, respectively). There was no difference in ICM/TE rates between the groups. Unlike NC, MF, PT, and UB embryos, most (6 of 8 karyotyped) 3–4BL blastocysts had abnormal ploidy, such as haploid, triploid, mixoploid, or chaotic chromosome numbers, in blastomeres. Our results revealed that not only the length of the first cell cycles, but also the cleavage pattern during first cell division can be a marker of developmental competence and should be considered for the selection of good-quality embryos for embryo transfer. This work was supported by the Research and Development Program for New Bio-industry Initiatives.

208 TIME LAPSE CINEMATOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS OF CLEAVAGE AND BLASTULATION IN BOVINE EMBRYOS OBTAINED BY OVUM PICKUP AND IN VITRO FERTILIZATION

Since the 1980s, several different bovine in vitro embryo production systems have been developed, and more than 291 000 embryos have been transferred throughout the world (Thibier M 2007 IETS Newsletter 25(4), 15–20). However, we have limited knowledge about the cleavage pattern of the first, second, and third cell divisions and the developmental activities of embryos during in vitro culture (IVC). The present study was conducted to determine the developmental activities of bovine embryos obtained by ovum pickup (OPU), in vitro maturation (IVM), and in vitro fertilization (IVF). We analyzed embryonic development by time-lapse cinematography (TLC). A total of 92 cumulus–oocyte complexes were collected by OPU from Japanese Black cows and were subjected to IVM and IVF as reported previously (Imai et al. 2006 J. Reprod. Dev. 52(Suppl.), S19–S29). Inseminated oocytes were cultured in microdrops of CR1aa medium supplemented with 5% calf serum covered by mineral oil in 5% CO2 in air at 38.5°C. Kinetics of embryo development were measured by TLC for 168 h after IVF by using a Cultured Cell Monitoring System (CCM–M1.4ZS, Astec, Fukuoka, Japan). A total of 672 photographs of the embryos were taken (1 photograph every 15 min) during IVC. Image stacks were analyzed by the CCM–M1.4 software. Timing of the first, second, and third cell divisions, blastulation, and embryonic contractions were recorded. The results are reported as time (h) passed after insemination. In total, 75 (81.5%) embryos cleaved and 61 (66.3%) embryos developed to the blastocyst stage. The first, second, and third cell divisions in these viable embryos occurred at 24.0 ± 0.5, 32.1 ± 0.2, and 39.4 ± 0.4 h (mean ± SE) after IVF, respectively. On the other hand, in nonviable embryos (those that failed to develop to the blastocyst stage; n = 14), these cell divisions occurred at 29.5 ± 2.2, 41.3 ± 3.3, and 57.2 ± 7.6 h after IVF, respectively. There tended to be a difference (P = 0.06; paired t-test) in the timing of the first cell division between viable and nonviable embryos. Blastulation of embryos began at 114.4 ± 1.1 h, embryos developed to the blastocyst stage at 127.3 ± 1.4 h, and blastocysts began to expand at 138.4 ± 1.7 h after IVF, respectively. During blastocyst development, embryonic contractions (shrinkage attributable to the rupture of the blastocoele) and tight-shrinkage (shrinking of the embryo to less than 70% of its surface area) were observed in all embryos. The mean numbers of contractions and tight-shrinkages in blastocysts were 5.3 ± 2.7 and 2.1 ± 1.0 times, respectively. The frequency of contractions from the beginning of blastulation to the blastocyst stage was significantly lower (P < 0.01) than after the blastocyst stage. It took 6.9 ± 4.6 h for the embryos to re-expand after the tight-shrinkages. These results indicate that viable in vitro-produced embryos can be selected at early stages by TLC. Further studies are necessary to clarify the importance of the pulsating activity in OPU–IVF embryos. This work was supported by the Research and Development Program for New Bio-industry Initiatives.

206 EFFECT OF FOLLICULAR WAVE SYNCHRONIZATION AND SUPERSTIMULATION ON IN VITRO EMBRYO PRODUCTION

We previously reported that follicular wave synchronization, by removal of the dominant follicle on Day 5 after ovum pickup (OPU), was effective in increasing oocyte quality in the developing follicles (Imai et al. 2006 32th Annual Conference of the IETS, poster presentation no. 277). The current study was designed to examine the effect of superstimulatory treatment to induce subsequent follicular wave synchronization on embryo production by OPU and IVM-IVF-IVC in Holstein dry cows. Cows were reared under the same feeding and environmental conditions, and 2 OPU sessions were conducted in each cow. In the first session, OPU was performed in 8 cows on arbitrary days of the estrous cycle by using a 7.5-MHz linear transducer with needle (Cova needle, Misawa Medical, Tokyo, Japan) connected to an ultrasound scanner (SSD-1200, Aloka, Tokyo, Japan). Follicles larger than 8 mm in diameter were then aspirated and a CIDR was inserted on Day 5 (the day of first OPU session = Day 0). Cows then received 30 mg of FSH (Antrin-R10; Kawasaki Mitaka Pharmaceutical Co., Tokyo, Japan) twice a day from Days 7 to 10 in decreasing doses (6, 6, 4, 4, 3, 3, 2, 2 mg) by i.m. injection. Cloprostenol (PGF; Clopromate C; Sumitomo Pharmaceuticals Co., Tokyo, Japan; 0.75 mg) was administered in the morning of Day 9 (third day of superstimulation). The second OPU session was performed 48 h after PGF administration (Day 11), and only follicles larger than 5 mm in diameter were aspirated. The CIDR was removed from the cows just before OPU. Collected oocytes were evaluated by their cumulus cell morphology, cytoplasmic color, and density. Grades 1 and 2 COC were matured, fertilized, and cultured as described by Imai et al. [2006 J. Reprod. Dev. 52(Suppl.), S19–S29]. Embryo development was assessed by the cleavage rate on Day 2 and by the blastocyst formation rate on Days 7 to 8 (the day of insemination = Day 0). Data were analyzed by Student's t-test. There were no differences in the mean (� SD) number of aspirated follicles or collected oocytes between the first (32.5 � 6.8 and 26.0 � 12.7, respectively) and second (29.3 � 10.4 and 19.0 � 9.4, respectively) OPU sessions (P > 0.1). The percentage of Grade 1 and 2 oocytes for the second OPU session (90.5 � 13.8%) was significantly higher (P < 0.01) than for the first OPU session (63.1 � 6.3%), and significant differences were found for cleavage (79.4 � 14.1, 61.8 � 25.1, P < 0.01) and blastocyst rates (68.1 � 16.7, 24.2 � 22.3, P < 0.001) between sessions. The mean numbers of blastocysts obtained per session were 4.3 � 2.9 and 12.8 � 8.7 in the first and second sessions, respectively (P < 0.01). These results indicate that superstimulatory treatment and subsequent follicular wave synchronization were effective on in vitro embryo production by increasing the oocyte quality.

Mutations of the HIPK2 gene in acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome impair AML1- and p53-mediated transcription

The AML1 transcription factor complex is the most frequent target of leukemia-associated chromosomal translocations. Homeodomain-interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2) is a part of the AML1 complex and activates AML1-mediated transcription. However, chromosomal translocations and mutations of HIPK2 have not been reported. In the current study, we screened mutations of the HIPK2 gene in 50 cases of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and in 80 cases of myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). Results indicated there were two missense mutations (R868W and N958I) in the speckle-retention signal (SRS) domain of HIPK2. Subcellular localization analyses indicated that the two mutants were largely localized to nuclear regions with conical or ring shapes, and were somewhat diffused in the nucleus, in contrast to the wild type, which were mainly localized in nuclear speckles. The mutations impaired the overlapping localization of AML1 and HIPK2. The mutants showed decreased activities and a dominant-negative function over wild-type protein in AML1- and p53-dependent transcription. These findings suggest that dysfunction of HIPK2 may play a role in the pathogenesis of leukemia.

Inhibitory effects of an anti-rheumatic agent T-614 on immunoglobulin production by cultured B cells and rheumatoid synovial tissues engrafted into SCID mice

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the pharmacological action of an anti-rheumatic agent T-614, we investigated its effects on immunoglobulin (Ig) production by cultured B cells and Ig secretion from synovial tissues of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using SCID mice engrafted with human RA tissue (SCID-HuRAg).

METHODS

Murine B cells were prepared from mouse spleen by a T-cell depletion method. The cells were cultured with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and/or interleukin 4 (IL-4) in the absence or presence of T-614. Human B cells were isolated from peripheral blood of healthy donors and the Ig production was induced by co-culture with autologous T cells and anti-CD3 antibody. SCID-HuRAg was prepared according to our previous method. T-614 was orally administered to the mice once daily for 4 weeks starting on the fourth week after the implantation. Then, peripheral blood was obtained and the implanted tissues were removed. Igs in the culture media or the sera were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

RESULTS

In murine B-cell cultures, T-614 significantly decreased not only the IgM production stimulated with LPS but IgG1 production induced by LPS and IL-4. Regarding human B cells stimulated with T cells, it also inhibited IgM and IgG production. In SCID-HuRAg mice, high concentrations of polyclonal human IgG were detectable in the sera of all mice. A significant decrease in the IgG level was observed in the T-614-treated group compared with the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

We showed that T-614 inhibited Ig production by the cultured B cells and also decreased the high level of human IgG observed in SCID-HuRAg mice. These results may support its effect on plasma Ig in RA patients and provide insights into the mechanisms of its anti-rheumatic effect.

An anti-rheumatic agent T-614 inhibits NF-kappaB activation in LPS- and TNF-alpha-stimulated THP-1 cells without interfering with IkappaBalpha degradation

OBJECTIVE

Compound T-614, a member of the methanesulfoanilide class of anti-inflammatory agents, shows potent anti-arthritic activity in animal models of rheumatoid arthritis. The aim of the present investigation was to characterize the anti-arthritic activity of T-614 in terms of regulation of the nuclear transcription factor NF-kappaB, which is associated with expression of many immune and inflammatory genes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

THP-1 cells (human monocytic leukemia cell line) were used throughout this in vitro study, and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha were employed for activation of the cells. Cytokine production was assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The mRNA levels were determined by a semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay. Assessment of the NF-kappaB DNA binding activity was performed by an electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) using a digoxigenin (DIG)-labeled double-stranded oligonucleotide containing kappaB-binding site. Degradation kinetics of the cytosolic NF-kappaB inhibitor a (IkappaBalpha) were studied by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

T-614 inhibited LPS-stimulated production of TNF-alpha, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-8 in a concentration-dependent manner with decreasing mRNA levels (IL-6 and IL-8). EMSA study showed that T-614 prevented TNF-alpha as well as LPS-stimulated activation of NF-kappaB, and Western blot analysis proved that T-614 did not affect degradation of IkappaBalpha protein.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the inhibitory effect of T-614 on the production of TNF-alpha, IL-6 and IL-8 in LPS-stimulated THP-1 cells may involve transcriptional regulation through suppression of NF-kappaB activation without interfering with IkappaBalpha degradation.

Inhibitory effect of T-614 on tumor necrosis factor-alpha induced cytokine production and nuclear factor-kappaB activation in cultured human synovial cells

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mechanism of the immunosuppressive effect of T-614 [N-(3-formylamino-4-oxo-6-phenoxy-4H-chromen-7-yl)methanesulfonamide], a new antirheumatic drug whose clinical efficacy has been determined for the treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

RA synovial fibroblast-like cells were cultured with tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha, 10 ng/ml) in the presence or absence of T-614. After incubation, cytokine production was measured by ELISA. Expression of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and IL-8 mRNA was examined by real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analysis and TNF-alpha induced nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-kappaB) activation was observed using immunostaining with an antibody against NF-kappaB p65.

RESULTS

T-614 suppressed TNF-alpha induced production of IL-6, IL-8, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1, and also reduced the accumulation of IL-6 and IL-8 mRNA in a concentration dependent manner. T-614 interfered with the TNF-alpha induced translocation of NF-kappaB to the nucleus from the cytoplasm.

CONCLUSION

Inhibition of NF-kappaB activation and transcription of proinflammatory cytokines by T-614 contributes to its clinical antirheumatic effect.

Regional wall stress predicts ventricular remodeling after anteroseptal myocardial infarction in the Healing and Early Afterload Reducing Trial (HEART): an echocardiography-based structural analysis

BACKGROUND

Increased left ventricular (LV) wall stress after myocardial infarction (MI) has been implicated in LV remodeling. However, the relationship between LV wall stress and LV remodeling is incompletely defined.

METHOD

We prospectively studied the relationship between regional wall stress and LV remodeling by application of the finite element method to end-systolic LV models from patients enrolled in the Healing and Early Afterload Reducing Therapy (HEART) Trial. Individual LV models were constructed from orthogonal apical echocardiographic views obtained at day 14 after anteroseptal MI in 64 patients. Of these, 31 patients received low-dose (0.625 mg) ramipril and 33 patients received full-dose (10 mg) ramipril. LV wall stress was calculated by the finite element method and correlated with change in LV volume from day 14 to day 90 after MI.

RESULTS

Among all patients, increases in apical regional wall stress were associated with LV volume changes (P -trend =.015). The relationship between apical regional wall stress and change in LV volume was strongest in the low-dose ramipril group (r = 0.53, P =.002) and remained significant after adjustment for end-diastolic volume, infarct size, ejection fraction, and systolic blood pressure yet was attenuated in the full-dose ramipril group.

CONCLUSIONS

Apical regional wall stress is an independent predictor of subsequent LV remodeling after MI. The relationship between increased apical wall stress and LV dilatation appears to be attenuated by full-dose angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition.

Fusion of MOZ and p300 histone acetyltransferases in acute monocytic leukemia with a t(8;22)(p11;q13) chromosome translocation

Histone acetyltransferase p300 functions as a transcriptional co-activator which interacts with a number of transcription factors. Monocytic leukemia zinc finger protein (MOZ) has histone acetyltransferase activity. We report the fusion of the MOZ gene to the p300 gene in acute myeloid leukemia with translocation t(8;22)(p11;q13). FISH and Southern blot analyses showed the rearrangement of the MOZ and p300 genes. We determined the genomic structure of the p300 and the MOZ genes and the breakpoints of the translocation. Analysis of fusion transcripts indicated that the zinc finger and acetyltransferase domains of MOZ are fused to a largely intact p300. These results suggest that MOZ-p300, which has two acetyltransferase domains, could be involved in leukemogenesis through aberrant regulation of histone acetylation.

Effect of acupuncture-like stimulation on cortical cerebral blood flow in anesthetized rats

The effect of acupuncture-like stimulation of various areas (cheek, forepaw, upper arm, chest, back, lower leg, hindpaw, perineum) on cortical cerebral blood flow (CBF) was examined in anesthetized rats. An acupuncture needle (diameter, 340 microm) was inserted into the skin and underlying muscles at a depth of about 5 mm and twisted to the right and left once a second for 1 min. CBF of the cortex was measured using a laser Doppler flowmeter. Stimulation of the cheek, forepaw, upper arm and hindpaw produced significant increases in CBF, but stimulation of the chest, back, lower leg and perineum did not produce significant responses. Stimulation of the cheek, forepaw, and hindpaw produced an increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP), while stimulation of the back produced a decrease in MAP. Stimulation of the upper arm, chest, lower leg and perineum did not produce a significant MAP response. After spinal transection at the 1st to 2nd thoracic level, the blood pressure response to stimulation of the cheek and forepaw was suppressed, whereas an increase in CBF still took place. The increase in CBF induced by forepaw stimulation was abolished by severance of the somatic nerves at the brachial plexus. Forepaw stimulation enhanced the activity of the radial, ulnar and median nerves. Furthermore, in the present study, passing of an electric current through acupuncture needles showed that excitation of group III (Adelta) and group IV (C) afferent fibers in the somatic nerve was capable of producing an increase in CBF, whereas excitation of group I (Aalpha) and group II (Abeta) fibers was ineffective. The increase in CBF induced by forepaw stimulation was almost abolished by intravenous administration of muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic blocking agents (atropine 5 mg/kg and mecamylamine 20 mg/kg), and by bilateral lesions in the nucleus basalis of Meynert. Acupuncture-like stimulation of a forepaw increased acetylcholine release in the cerebral cortex. We concluded that the increase in CBF, independent of systemic blood pressure, elicited by acupuncture stimulation is a reflex response in which the afferent nerve pathway is composed of somatic group III and IV afferent nerves, and efferent nerve pathway includes intrinsic cholinergic vasodilators originating in the nucleus basalis of Meynert.

Detection of hepatocellular carcinoma and its metastases with various pulse sequences using superparamagnetic iron oxide (SHU-555-A)

BACKGROUND

To identify the most useful combinations of various pre- and postcontrast magnetic resonance (MR) image sequences in detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its intrahepatic metastases before and after injection of SHU-555-A.

METHODS

Thirty-eight lesions in 16 patients were evaluated before and after administration of SHU-555-A by using fast spin echo (FSE), gradient echo (GRE), and echo planar (EP) imaging sequences using a 1.5-Tesla superconducting MR system. The signal intensity ratio (SIR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) of the lesions, signal-to-noise ratios, and other parameters were calculated.

RESULTS

Tumors were better detected after injection of SHU-555-A on all pulse sequences except on out-of-phase T1-weighted (T1W)-GRE sequences. Tumor detectability was higher for precontrast EP imaging and T2*-weighted (T2*W)-GRE sequences, whereas detectability at postcontrast was higher for T2*W-GRE, proton-density-weighted-FSE, and in-phase T1W-GRE sequences. The SIR and CNR at precontrast were highest for EP imaging, and those at postcontrast were highest for T2*W-GRE.

CONCLUSION

SHU-555-A will increase the detectability of HCC and its liver metastases. T1W- and T2*W-GRE sequences would be the sequences of choice.

A 2-Mb sequence-ready contig map and a novel immunoglobulin superfamily gene IGSF4 in the LOH region of chromosome 11q23.2

Human chromosome 11q23.2 has been proposed to contain a tumor suppressor gene(s) whose deletion has been associated with cancer of the lung and breast and with neuroblastoma. To analyze the genomic structure and to isolate a candidate tumor suppressor gene from this region, we constructed a 2-Mb sequence-ready contig map using bacteriophage P1 (P1), bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC), and P1-derived artificial chromosome (PAC). The map comprises a contig of 24 overlapping P1, BAC, and PAC clones. To isolate gene fragments from the region, we performed direct cDNA library screening, exon trapping, EST mapping, and genomic sequencing using the P1, BAC, and PAC clones. Sequence analysis of 5 clones, which spans 23% (458,738 bp) of the region, and extensive gene scanning along the entire region revealed that the region is extraordinarily scarce in genes, but we identified one ubiquitously expressed novel gene and one testis-specific gene fragment. The novel gene, which we call IGSF4 (immunoglobulin superfamily 4), is transcribed into a 1.6- or 4.4-kb RNA encoding a 442-amino-acid protein. It shares strong homology with mouse IGSF-B12 and cell adhesion molecules NCAM1 and NCAM2 within their Ig-like C2-type domains. The IGSF4 gene, a novel gene that is shown to be located in the common loss of heterozygosity region, possesses a number of interesting features and may be good candidate for a tumor suppressor gene.

Occurrence of free D-amino acids and aspartate racemases in hyperthermophilic archaea

The occurrence of free D-amino acids and aspartate racemases in several hyperthermophilic archaea was investigated. Aspartic acid in all the hyperthermophilic archaea was highly racemized. The ratio of D-aspartic acid to total aspartic acid was in the range of 43.0 to 49.1%. The crude extracts of the hyperthermophiles exhibited aspartate racemase activity at 70 degrees C, and aspartate racemase homologous genes in them were identified by PCR. D-Enantiomers of other amino acids (alanine, leucine, phenylalanine, and lysine) in Thermococcus strains were also detected. Some of them might be by-products of aspartate racemase. It is proven that D-amino acids are produced in some hyperthermophilic archaea, although their function is unknown.

Involvement of PITPnm, a mammalian homologue of Drosophila rdgB, in phosphoinositide synthesis on Golgi membranes

Phosphatidylinositol transfer protein (PITP) is involved in phospholipase C-mediated signaling and membrane trafficking. We previously reported cloning and characterization of a gene encoding for membrane-bound PITP, named PITPnm, that is a mammalian homologue of the Drosophila retinal degeneration B (rdgB) gene (Aikawa, Y., Hara, H., and Watanabe, T. (1997) Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 236, 559-564). Here we report the subcellular localization of PITPnm protein and provide evidence for its involvement in phosphatidylinositol 4-phosphate (PtdIns 4-P) synthesis. PITPnm is an integral membrane protein that largely localized in close association with membranes of Golgi vacuoles and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The amino terminus region of PITPnm was exposed to cytoplasmic side. Interaction with various phosphoinositides was observed in the amino terminus region spanning from 196 amino acids to 257 amino acids of PITPnm. At the amino terminus regions of 1-372 amino acids, PITPnm formed a complex with type III PtdIns 4-kinase. The transmembrane and carboxyl-terminal portions (residues 418-1242) functioned to retain the PITPnm in the Golgi vacuole. These results suggest that PITPnm plays a role in phosphoinositide synthesis on the Golgi vacuoles and possibly in the PtdIns signaling pathway in mammalian cells.

A quadricuspid aortic valve diagnosed by transesophageal echocardiography: report of a case

A quadricuspid aortic valve is a very rare anomaly which may cause aortic regurgitation in adulthood. We describe herein the case of a 54-year-old man with aortic regurgitation in whom a quadricuspid aortic valve was diagnosed, not through transthoracic investigation, but by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). TEE also indicated that the right coronary ostium was located in a lower position. Subsequent aortic valve replacement was successfully performed, at which time the diagnosis was confirmed. Thus, TEE played an important role in identifying the anatomy of the aortic valve and the location of the coronary ostium.