Rapidly Self-Deactivating and Injectable Succinyl Ester-Based Bioadhesives for Postoperative Antiadhesion

Postoperative adhesion not only causes severe complications for patients but also increases their economic burden. Injectable bioadhesives with adhesiveness to tissues can cover irregular wounds and stay stable in situ, which is a promising barrier for antiadhesion. However, the potential tissue adhesion caused by bioadhesives' indiscriminate adhesiveness between normal and wounded tissue is still a problem. Herein, by using poly(ethylene glycol) succinimidyl succinate (PEG-SS) and gelatin, a succinyl ester-based bioadhesive (SEgel) was fabricated with self-deactivating properties for postoperative antiadhesion. Because N-hydroxysuccinimide esters (NHS-esters) were used as the adhesive group, the bioadhesives' side in contact with the tissue built covalent anchors quickly to maintain the stability, but the superficial layer facing outward withstood fast hydrolysis and then lost its adhesion within minutes, avoiding the indiscriminate adhesiveness. In addition, because of the specific degradation behavior of succinyl ester, the SEgel with proper in vivo retention was achieved without the worry of causing foreign body reactions and unexpected tissue adhesion. Both the cecum-sidewall adhesion and hepatic adhesion models showed that the SEgel markedly reduced the severity of tissue adhesion. These results, together with the ease of the preparation process and well-proven biocompatibility of raw materials, revealed that the SEgel might be a promising solution for postoperative antiadhesion.

The Novel Monoacylglycerol Lipase Inhibitor MJN110 Suppresses Neuroinflammation, Normalizes Synaptic Composition and Improves Behavioral Performance in the Repetitive Traumatic Brain Injury Mouse Model

Modulation of the endocannabinoid system has emerged as an effective approach for the treatment of many neurodegenerative and neuropsychological diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms are still uncertain. Using a repetitive mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) mouse model, we found that there was an impairment in locomotor function and working memory within two weeks post-injury, and that treatment with MJN110, a novel inhibitor of the principal 2-arachidononyl glycerol (2-AG) hydrolytic enzyme monoacylglycerol lipase dose-dependently ameliorated those behavioral changes. Spatial learning and memory deficits examined by Morris water maze between three and four weeks post-TBI were also reversed in the drug treated animals. Administration of MJN110 selectively elevated the levels of 2-AG and reduced the production of arachidonic acid (AA) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) in the TBI mouse brain. The increased production of proinflammatory cytokines, accumulation of astrocytes and microglia in the TBI mouse ipsilateral cerebral cortex and hippocampus were significantly reduced by MJN110 treatment. Neuronal cell death was also attenuated in the drug treated animals. MJN110 treatment normalized the expression of the NMDA receptor subunits NR2A and NR2B, the AMPA receptor subunits GluR1 and GluR2, and the GABA_A receptor subunits α1, β2,3 and γ2, which were all reduced at 1, 2 and 4 weeks post-injury. The reduced inflammatory response and restored glutamate and GABA receptor expression likely contribute to the improved motor function, learning and memory in the MJN110 treated animals. The therapeutic effects of MJN110 were partially mediated by activation of CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors and were eliminated when it was co-administered with DO34, a novel inhibitor of the 2-AG biosynthetic enzymes. Our results suggest that augmentation of the endogenous levels of 2-AG can be therapeutically useful in the treatment of TBI by suppressing neuroinflammation and maintaining the balance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission.

Structure-Activity Relationships of Triple-Action Platinum(IV) Prodrugs with Albumin-Binding Properties and Immunomodulating Ligands

Chemotherapy with platinum complexes is essential for clinical anticancer therapy. However, due to side effects and drug resistance, further drug improvement is urgently needed. Herein, we report on triple-action platinum(IV) prodrugs, which, in addition to tumor targeting via maleimide-mediated albumin binding, release the immunomodulatory ligand 1-methyl-d-tryptophan (1-MDT). Unexpectedly, structure-activity relationship analysis showed that the mode of 1-MDT conjugation distinctly impacts the reducibility and thus activation of the prodrugs. This in turn affected ligand release, pharmacokinetic properties, efficiency of immunomodulation, and the anticancer activity in vitro and in a mouse model in vivo. Moreover, we could demonstrate that the design of albumin-targeted multi-modal prodrugs using platinum(IV) is a promising strategy to enhance the cellular uptake of bioactive ligands with low cell permeability (1-MDT) and to improve their selective delivery into the malignant tissue. This will allow tumor-specific anticancer therapy supported by a favorably tuned immune microenvironment.

Synthesis and kinetic characterization of hyperbolic inhibitors of human cathepsins K and S based on a succinimide scaffold

Cathepsins K and S are closely related papain-like cysteine peptidases and potential therapeutic targets for metabolic and inflammatory diseases such as osteoporosis and arthritis. Here we describe the reduction of a previously characterized succinimide (2,5-dioxopyrrolidine)-containing hyperbolic inhibitor of cathepsin K (methyl (RS)-N-[1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-3-yl]glycinate), to obtain a better and more selective compound (compound 4a - methyl (2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-3-yl)glycinate), which acted as a hyperbolic mixed inhibitor/activator similar to already known allosteric effectors of cathepsin K. We then investigated the potential of the succinimide scaffold as inhibitors of cathepsins K and/or S and synthesized a library of such compounds by 1,4-addition of α-amino acid esters and related compounds to N-substituted maleimides. From the generated library, we identified the first small molecule hyperbolic inhibitors of cathepsin S (methyl ((R)-2,5-dioxopyrrolidin-3-yl)-l-threoninate (compound R-4c) and 3-{[(1S,2R,3'S)-2-hydroxycyclohexyl]amino}pyrrolidine-2,5-dione (compound (1S,2R,3'S-10)). The former acted via a similar mechanism to compound 4a, while the latter was a hyperbolic specific inhibitor of cathepsin S. Given the versatility of the scaffold, the identified compounds will be used as the basis for the development of high-affinity hyperbolic inhibitors of the individual peptidases and to explore the potential of hyperbolic inhibitors for the inhibition of cysteine cathepsins in in vitro models.

Development of succinimide-based inhibitors for the mitochondrial rhomboid protease PARL

While the biochemistry of rhomboid proteases has been extensively studied since their discovery two decades ago, efforts to define the physiological roles of these enzymes are ongoing and would benefit from chemical probes that can be used to manipulate the functions of these proteins in their native settings. Here, we describe the use of activity-based protein profiling (ABPP) technology to conduct a targeted screen for small-molecule inhibitors of the mitochondrial rhomboid protease PARL, which plays a critical role in regulating mitophagy and cell death. We synthesized a series of succinimide-containing sulfonyl esters and sulfonamides and discovered that these compounds serve as inhibitors of PARL with the most potent sulfonamides having submicromolar affinity for the enzyme. A counterscreen against the bacterial rhomboid protease GlpG demonstrates that several of these compounds display selectivity for PARL over GlpG by as much as two orders of magnitude. Both the sulfonyl ester and sulfonamide scaffolds exhibit reversible binding and are able to engage PARL in mammalian cells. Collectively, our findings provide encouraging precedent for the development of PARL-selective inhibitors and establish N-[(arylsulfonyl)oxy]succinimides and N-arylsulfonylsuccinimides as new molecular scaffolds for inhibiting members of the rhomboid protease family.

Multifaceted activity of polyciclic MDR revertant agents in drug-resistant leukemic cells: Role of the spacer

A small library of derivatives carrying a polycyclic scaffold recently identified by us as a new privileged structure in medicinal chemistry was designed and synthesized, aiming at obtaining potent MDR reverting agents also endowed with antitumor properties. In particular, as a follow-up of our previous studies, attention was focused on the role of the spacer connecting the polycyclic core with a properly selected nitrogen-containing group. A relevant increase in reverting potency was observed, going from the previously employed but-2-ynyl- to a pent-3-ynylamino moiety, as in compounds 3d and 3e, while the introduction of a triazole ring proved to differently impact on the activity of the compounds. The docking results supported the data obtained by biological tests, showing, for the most active compounds, the ability to establish specific bonds with P-glycoprotein. Moreover, a multifaceted anticancer profile and dual in vitro activity was observed for all compounds, showing both revertant and antitumor effects on leukemic cells. In this respect, 3c emerged as a "triple-target" agent, endowed with a relevant reverting potency, a considerable antiproliferative activity and a collateral sensitivity profile.

Characterization of a monoacylglycerol lipase in the medicinal leech, Hirudo verbana

Endocannabinoids are a class of lipid neuromodulators found throughout the animal kingdom. Among the endocannabinoids, 2-arachydonoyl glycerol (2-AG) is the most prevalent endocannabinoid and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) is a serine hydrolase primarily responsible for metabolizing 2-AG in mammals. In the medicinal leech, Hirudo verbana, 2-AG has been found to be an important and multi-functional modulator of synaptic transmission and behavior. However, very little is known about the molecular components of its synthesis and degradation. In this study we have identified cDNA in Hirudo that encodes a putative MAGL (HirMAGL). The encoded protein exhibits considerable sequence and structural conservation with mammalian forms of MAGL, especially in the catalytic triad that mediates 2-AG metabolism. Additionally, HirMAGL transcripts are detected in the Hirudo central nervous system. When expressed in HEK 293 cells HirMAGL segregates to the plasma membrane as expected. It also exhibits serine hydrolase activity that is blocked when a critical active site residue is mutated. HirMAGL also demonstrates the capacity to metabolize 2-AG and this capacity is also prevented when the active site is mutated. Finally, HirMAGL activity is inhibited by JZL184 and MJN110, specific inhibitors of mammalian MAGL. To our knowledge these findings represent the first characterization of an invertebrate form of MAGL and show that HirMAGL exhibits many of the same properties as mammalian MAGL's that are responsible for 2-AG metabolism.

An Injectable and Instant Self-Healing Medical Adhesive for Wound Sealing

Designing versatile functional medical adhesives with injectability, self-healing, and strong adhesion is of great significance to achieve desirable therapeutic effects for promoting wound sealing in healthcare. Herein, a self-healing injectable adhesive is fabricated by physical interaction of polyphenol compound tannic acid (TA) and eight-arm poly(ethylene glycol) end-capped with succinimide glutarate active ester (PEG-SG). The hydrogen bonding induced from the structural unit (-CH₂-CH₂-O-) of PEG and catechol hydroxyl (-OH) of TA, accompanied by ester exchange between N-hydroxysuccinimide (-NHS) and amino (-NH₂) of proteins, contributes to self-healing ability and rapid strong adhesion. Notably, the PEG/TA adhesive can repeatedly adhere to rigid porcine tissues, close the coronary artery under a large incision tension, and bear a heavy load of 2 kg. By exhibiting shear-thinning and anti-swelling properties, the PEG/TA adhesive can be easily applied through single-syringe extrusion onto various wounds. The single-channel toothpaste-like feature of the adhesive ensures its storage hermetically for portable usage. Moreover, in vivo operation and histological H&E staining results indicate that the PEG/TA adhesive greatly accelerates wound healing and tissue regeneration in a rat model. With the specialty of injectability, instant self-healing, and long-lasting strong adhesion to facilitate excellent therapeutic effects, the multifunctional PEG/TA adhesive may provide a new alternative for self-rescue and surgical situations.

Endocannabinoid degradation inhibitors ameliorate neuronal and synaptic alterations following traumatic brain injury

Our previous work showed that lateral fluid percussion injury to the sensorimotor cortex (SMC) of anesthetized rats increased neuronal synaptic hyperexcitability in layer 5 (L5) neurons in ex vivo brain slices 10 days postinjury. Furthermore, endocannabinoid (EC) degradation inhibition via intraperitoneal JZL184 injection 30 min postinjury attenuated synaptic hyperexcitability. This study tested the hypothesis that traumatic brain injury (TBI) induces synaptic and intrinsic neuronal alterations of L5 SMC pyramidal neurons and that these alterations are significantly attenuated by in vivo post-TBI treatment with EC degradation inhibitors. We tested the effects of systemically administered EC degradation enzyme inhibitors (JZL184, MJN110, URB597, or JZL195) with differential selectivity for fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) on electrophysiological parameters in SMC neurons of TBI- and sham-treated rats 10 days post-TBI. We recorded intrinsic neuronal properties, including resting membrane voltage, input resistance, spike threshold, spiking responses to current input, voltage "sag" (rebound response to hyperpolarization-activated inward current), and burst firing. We also measured the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents. We then used the aggregate parameter sets (intrinsic + synaptic properties) to apply a machine learning classification algorithm to quantitatively compare neural population responses from each experimental group. Collectively, our electrophysiological and computational results indicate that sham neurons are the most distinguishable from TBI neurons. Administration of EC degradation inhibitors post-TBI exerted varying degrees of rescue, approximating the neuronal phenotype of sham neurons, with neurons from TBI/JZL195 (a dual MAGL/FAAH inhibitor) being most similar to neurons from sham rats.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study elucidates neuronal properties altered by traumatic brain injury (TBI) in layer 5 of sensorimotor cortex, which may be implicated in post-TBI circuit dysfunction. We compared effects of systemic administration of four different endocannabinoid degradation inhibitors within a clinically relevant window postinjury. Electrophysiological measures and using a machine learning classification algorithm collectively suggest that pharmacological inhibitors targeting both monoacylglycerol lipase and fatty acid amide hydrolase (e.g., JZL195) may be most efficacious in attenuating TBI-induced neuronal dysfunction at site of injury.

The novel MAGL inhibitor MJN110 enhances responding to reward-predictive incentive cues by activation of CB1 receptors

CB1 receptor antagonists disrupt operant responding for food and drug reinforcers, and cue-induced reinstatement of cocaine and heroin seeking. Conversely, enhancing endocannabinoid signaling, particularly 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG), by inhibition of monoacyl glycerol lipase (MAGL), may facilitate some aspects of reward seeking. To determine how endocannabinoid signaling affects responding to reward-predictive cues, we employed an operant task that allows us to parse the incentive motivational properties of cues. Rats were required to nosepoke during an intermittent audiovisual incentive cue (IC) to obtain a 10% sucrose reward. The CB1 receptor antagonist, rimonabant, dose-dependently decreased the response ratio (rewarded ICs/total presented) and active nosepokes per IC, while it increased the latency to respond to the cue and obtain the reward, indicating an overall decrease in both the choice and vigor of responding. Yet rats persisted in entering the reward cup. Using a modified version of the task, the novel MAGL inhibitor MJN110 increased the response ratio, decreased the latencies to respond to the IC and enhanced active nosepokes per IC, indicating a facilitation of cue-induced reward seeking. These effects were blocked by a subthreshold dose of rimonabant. Finally, MJN110 did not alter consumption of freely available sucrose within volumes obtained in the operant task. Together these data demonstrate blocking endocannabinoid tone at the CB1 receptor attenuates the ability of cues to induce reward seeking, while some aspects of motivation for the reward are retained. Conversely, enhancing 2-AG signaling at CB1 receptors facilitates IC responding and increases the motivational properties of the IC.

CFDA-SE Combined with MACSiBeads™ Particles to Evaluate the Inhibitory Effect of Treg Cells in vitro

OBJECTIVE

To explore the application of carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFDA-SE) and MACSiBeads™ Particles within in vitro suppression assays of regulatory T (Treg) cells.

METHODS

CD4⁺CD25⁺ Treg cells and CD8⁺ T cells were sorted using magnetically activated cell sorting. CD8⁺ T cells were subjected to CFDA-SE staining to determine their optimal staining concentration. MACSi-Beads™ Particles, a component of the Treg expansion kit, were used as stimulators in suppression assays. Five experimental groups were set based on the condition of MACSiBeads™ Particles, CFDA-SE staining and cell composition of co-culture system, which were stimulated CD8⁺ cells without CFDA-SE staining, unstimulated CD8⁺ cells with CFDA-SE staining, stimulated CD8⁺ cells with CFDA-SE staining, co-cultured with Treg cells at a ratio of 1:0.25, 1:0.125 and 1:0, respectively. Flow cytometry was performed using the BD FACS Canto™ and flow data was analyzed using FCS Express 4 Plus software.

RESULTS

CFSE fluorescence intensity correlated with cell type and culture time. The final CFDA-SE staining concentration was 0.5μM. Within in vitro suppression assays, Treg cells showed a significant inhibitory effect on the proliferation of CD8⁺ T cells increasing as its concentration increased.

CONCLUSION

CFDA-SE combined with MACSiBeads™ Particles can be used to evaluate the in vitro inhibition effect of Treg cells.

Injectable human recombinant collagen matrices limit adverse remodeling and improve cardiac function after myocardial infarction

Despite the success of current therapies for acute myocardial infarction (MI), many patients still develop adverse cardiac remodeling and heart failure. With the growing prevalence of heart failure, a new therapy is needed that can prevent remodeling and support tissue repair. Herein, we report on injectable recombinant human collagen type I (rHCI) and type III (rHCIII) matrices for treating MI. Injecting rHCI or rHCIII matrices in mice during the late proliferative phase post-MI restores the myocardium's mechanical properties and reduces scar size, but only the rHCI matrix maintains remote wall thickness and prevents heart enlargement. rHCI treatment increases cardiomyocyte and capillary numbers in the border zone and the presence of pro-wound healing macrophages in the ischemic area, while reducing the overall recruitment of bone marrow monocytes. Our findings show functional recovery post-MI using rHCI by promoting a healing environment, cardiomyocyte survival, and less pathological remodeling of the myocardium.

Characterization by Empirical and Computational Methods of Dictyospiromide, an Intriguing Antioxidant Alkaloid from the Marine Alga Dictyota coriacea

The challenging structural motif of dictyospiromide (1), a spirosuccinimide alkaloid with antioxidant properties that are associated with activation of the Nrf2/ARE signaling pathway, was assigned using contemporary NMR experiments complemented with anisotropic NMR, chiroptical, and computational methodologies. Anisotropic NMR parameters provided critical orthogonal verification of the configuration of the difficult to assign spiro carbon and the other stereogenic centers in 1.

Reactive Conjugated Polymers for the Modulation of Islet Amyloid Polypeptide Assembly

Misfolding and abnormal assembly of proteins cause many intractable diseases. The modulation of the assembly process of these proteins could contribute to understanding and controlling amyloid protein aggregation. Previous works focused mainly on the inhibition of the assembly process. To broaden the interaction modality of modulators with proteins for developing new modulators, in this work, we designed and synthesized two reactive poly ( p-phenylene vinylene) polymers, respectively, functionalized with N-hydroxysuccinimide ester (PPV-NHS) and pentafluorophenol ester (PPV-PFP), which exhibited the prevention or co-assembly effect on the aggregation process of islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP). Cell assays demonstrated that both of the two polymers could effectively eliminate the cytotoxicity of IAPP. Moreover, PPV-NHS also could irreversibly disrupt preformed IAPP fibrils. We envision that PPV-NHS and PPV-PFP might offer a new design method for the modulation of protein assembly.

Hormetic Effects of Mixtures of Dimethachlone and Prochloraz on Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Previous studies showed that dimethachlone has significant hormetic effects on phytopathogenic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. The present study investigated hormetic effects of mixtures of dimethachlone and prochloraz on mycelial growth and virulence of two dimethachlone-resistant isolates of S. sclerotiorum. The stimulatory dimethachlone dosage range was around 1 to 100 μg/ml in potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium for mycelial growth of the two isolates, and dimethachlone at 10 and 50 μg/ml had the maximum percent stimulations of 80.6 and 19.3% for isolates JMS14 and HLJ4, respectively. Prochloraz at 0.0003 and 0.002 μg/ml had the maximum percent stimulations of 9.3 and 11.1% for isolates JMS14 and HLJ4, respectively. However, dimethachlone and prochloraz mixed at their respective stimulatory concentrations had the maximum percent stimulations of 48.1 and 9.3% for isolates JMS14 and HLJ4, respectively. After the mycelia with increased and inhibited growth on fungicide-amended PDA were subcultured on PDA without fungicide, mycelial growth for the second generation increased compared with the nontreated control. After the mycelia grown on fungicide-amended PDA were inoculated on rapeseed leaves, the amplitude of virulence stimulation was much greater than that of mycelial growth on PDA amended with fungicide, and the inhibited mycelia also showed substantially increased virulence on leaves. The mixture of dimethachlone at 100 μg/ml and prochloraz at 0.03 μg/ml in PDA inhibited mycelial growth of isolate JMS14 by 59.4%; however, after the inhibited mycelia were inoculated on rapeseed leaves, virulence was stimulated by 69.0%. Spraying sublethal doses of dimethachlone and prochloraz on rapeseed leaves also exhibited significant stimulatory effects on virulence. For isolate JMS14, the stimulatory concentration ranges for dimethachlone and prochloraz were around 1 to 600 μg/ml and 0.0003 to 0.18 μg/ml, respectively. The fitted curve of virulence stimulation for the mixture of dimethachlone and prochloraz shifted to the left on the x axis, denoting dose-additive interactions between the two fungicides with regard to virulence stimulation. Spraying dimethachlone alone at 10 to 50 μg/ml had significant stimulations on virulence, whereas prochloraz alone at 10 to 50 μg/ml had significant inhibitory effects on virulence, and the mixture of dimethachlone and prochloraz at the concentration ratio of 1:1 had greater inhibitory effects than prochloraz alone, indicating dose-additive interactions for the inhibitory effects. Dimethachlone and prochloraz and their mixtures increased tolerance of mycelia to hydrogen peroxide. Dimethachlone significantly increased, whereas prochloraz reduced mycelial cell membrane permeability, and the mixture of the two fungicides had effect-additive interactions with respect to effects on cell membrane permeability. These studies will advance our understanding of hormesis of fungicide mixtures.

Measurements of Atmospheric Proteinaceous Aerosol in the Arctic Using a Selective UHPLC/ESI-MS/MS Strategy

In this article, an analytical methodology to investigate the proteinaceous content in atmospheric size-resolved aerosols collected at the Zeppelin observatory (79 °N, 12 °E) at Ny Ålesund, Svalbard, from September to December 2015, is proposed. Quantitative determination was performed after acidic hydrolysis using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography in reversed-phase mode coupled to electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry. Chromatographic separation, as well as specificity in the identification, was achieved by derivatization of the amino acids with N-butyl nicotinic acid N-hydroxysuccinimide ester prior to the analysis. The chromatographic run was performed within 11 min and instrumental levels of detection (LODs) were between 0.2 and 8.1 pg injected on the column, except for arginine which exhibited an LOD of 37 pg. Corresponding method LODs were between 0.01 and 1.9 fmol/m3, based on the average air sampling volume of 57 m3. The sum of free amino acids and hydrolyzed polyamino acids was shown to vary within 6-2914 and 0.02-1417 pmol/m3 for particles in sizes < 2 and 2-10 μm in equivalent aerodynamic diameter, respectively. Leucine, alanine, and valine were the most abundant among the amino acids in both aerosol size fractions. In an attempt to elucidate source areas of the collected aerosols, 5- to 10-day 3D backward trajectories reaching the sampling station were calculated. Overall, the method described here provides a first time estimate of the proteinaceous content, that is, the sum of free and polyamino acids, in size-resolved aerosols collected in the Arctic. Graphical Abstract ᅟ.

Monoacylglycerol Lipase Inhibitors Reverse Paclitaxel-Induced Nociceptive Behavior and Proinflammatory Markers in a Mouse Model of Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy

Although paclitaxel effectively treats various cancers, its debilitating peripheral neuropathic pain side effects often persist long after treatment has ended. Therefore, a compelling need exists for the identification of novel pharmacologic strategies to mitigate this condition. As inhibitors of monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL), the primary hydrolytic enzyme of the endogenous cannabinoid, 2-arachidonyolglycerol, produces antinociceptive effects in numerous rodent models of pain, we investigated whether inhibitors of this enzyme (i.e., JZL184 and MJN110) would reverse paclitaxel-induced mechanical allodynia in mice. These drugs dose dependently reversed allodynia with respective ED50 values (95% confidence limit) of 8.4 (5.2-13.6) and 1.8 (1.0-3.3) mg/kg. Complementary genetic and pharmacologic approaches revealed that the antiallodynic effects of each drug require both cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2 MJN110 reduced paclitaxel-mediated increased expression of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1, CCL2) and phospho-p38 MAPK in dorsal root ganglia as well as MCP-1 in spinal dorsal horn. Whereas the antinociceptive effects of high dose JZL184 (40 mg/kg) underwent tolerance following 6 days of repeated dosing, repeated administration of a threshold dose (i.e., 4 mg/kg) completely reversed paclitaxel-induced allodynia. In addition, we found that the administration of MJN110 to control mice lacked intrinsic rewarding effects in the conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. However, it produced a CPP in paclitaxel-treated animals, suggesting a reduced paclitaxel-induced aversive state. Importantly, JZL184 did not alter the antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of paclitaxel in A549 and H460 non-small cell lung cancer cells. Taken together, these data indicate that MAGL inhibitors reverse paclitaxel-induced neuropathic pain without interfering with chemotherapeutic efficacy.

Activity of a novel succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicide pyraziflumid against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Pyraziflumid is a novel member of succinate dehydrogenase inhibitor fungicides (SDHI). In this study, baseline sensitivity of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary to pyraziflumid was determined using 105 strains collected during 2015 and 2017 from different geographical regions in Jiangsu Province of China, and the average EC₅₀ value was 0.0561 (±0.0263)μg/ml for mycelial growth. There was no cross-resistance between pyraziflumid and the widely used fungicides carbendazim, dimethachlon and the phenylpyrrole fungicide fludioxonil. After pyraziflumid treated, hyphae were contorted with offshoot of top increasing, cell membrane permeability increased markedly, oxalic acid content significantly decreased and mycelial respiration was strongly inhibited. But the number and dry weight of sclerotia did not change significantly. The protective and curative activity test of pyraziflumid suggested that pyraziflumid had great control efficiency against S. sclerotiorum on detached rapeseed leaves, and protective activity was better than curative activity. These results will contribute to us on evaluating the potential of the new SDHI fungicide pyraziflumid for management of diseases caused by S. sclerotiorum and understanding the mode of action of pyraziflumid against S. sclerotiorum.

Protein kinase- and lipase inhibitors of inositide metabolism deplete IP7 indirectly in pancreatic β-cells: Off-target effects on cellular bioenergetics and direct effects on IP6K activity

Inositol pyrophosphates have emerged as important regulators of many critical cellular processes from vesicle trafficking and cytoskeletal rearrangement to telomere length regulation and apoptosis. We have previously demonstrated that 5-di-phosphoinositol pentakisphosphate, IP₇, is at a high level in pancreatic β-cells and is important for insulin exocytosis. To better understand IP₇ regulation in β-cells, we used an insulin secreting cell line, HIT-T15, to screen a number of different pharmacological inhibitors of inositide metabolism for their impact on cellular IP₇. Although the inhibitors have diverse targets, they all perturbed IP₇ levels. This made us suspicious that indirect, off-target effects of the inhibitors could be involved. It is known that IP₇ levels are decreased by metabolic poisons. The fact that the inositol hexakisphosphate kinases (IP6Ks) have a high K_m for ATP makes IP₇ synthesis potentially vulnerable to ATP depletion. Furthermore, many kinase inhibitors are targeted to the ATP binding site of kinases, but given the similarity of such sites, high specificity is difficult to achieve. Here, we show that IP₇ concentrations in HIT-T15 cells were reduced by inhibitors of PI3K (wortmannin, LY294002), PI4K (Phenylarsine Oxide, PAO), PLC (U73122) and the insulin receptor (HNMPA). Each of these inhibitors also decreased the ATP/ADP ratio. Thus reagents that compromise energy metabolism reduce IP₇ indirectly. Additionally, PAO, U73122 and LY294002 also directly inhibited the activity of purified IP6K. These data are of particular concern for those studying signal transduction in pancreatic β-cells, but also highlight the fact that employment of these inhibitors could have erroneously suggested the involvement of key signal transduction pathways in various cellular processes. Conversely, IP₇’s role in cellular signal transduction is likely to have been underestimated.

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In pancreatic β-cells several inhibitors of signal transduction reduce IP₇ levels.

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There is a positive correlation between IP₇ reduction and decrease in ATP/ADP.

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Inhibitors deplete IP₇ levels indirectly by decreasing ATP/ADP levels.

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Some purportedly specific cell-signaling inhibitors directly target IP6K activity.

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Caution is required in interpreting data obtained using inhibitors of inositide metabolism.

FAAH, but not MAGL, inhibition modulates acute TLR3-induced neuroimmune signaling in the rat, independent of sex

Toll-like receptor (TLR)3 is a key component of the innate immune response to viral infection. The present study firstly examined whether sex differences exist in TLR3-induced inflammatory, endocrine, and sickness responses. The data revealed that TLR3-induced expression of interferon- or NFkB-inducible genes (IFN-α/β, IP-10, or TNF-α), either peripherally (spleen) or centrally (hypothalamus), did not differ between male and female rats, with the exception of TLR3-induced IFN-α expression in the spleen of female, but not male, rats 8 hr post TLR3 activation. Furthermore, TLR3 activation increased plasma corticosterone levels, induced fever, and reduced locomotor activity and body weight - effects independent of sex. Thus, the acute-phase inflammatory, endocrine, and sickness responses to TLR3 activation exhibit minimal sex-related differences. A further aim of this study was to examine whether enhancing endocannabinoid tone - namely, 2-arachidonylglycerol (2-AG) or N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA), exhibited similar effects on TLR3-induced inflammatory responses in male versus female rats. Systemic administration of the monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) inhibitor MJN110 and subsequent increases in 2-AG levels did not alter the TLR3-induced increase in IP-10, IRF7, or TNF-α expression in the spleen or the hypothalamus of male or female rats. In contrast, the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) inhibitor URB597 increased levels of AEA and related N-acylethanolamines, an effect associated with the attenuation of TLR3-induced inflammatory responses in the hypothalamus, but not the spleen, of male and female rats. These data support a role for FAAH, but not MAGL, substrates in the modulation of TLR3-induced neuroinflammatory responses, effects independent of sex.

Molecular and biochemical characterization of dimethachlone resistant isolates of Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Sclerotinia sclerotiorum is a necrotrophic fungal plant pathogen with a broad host range. The dicarboximide fungicide dimethachlone has been used to control this pathogen for more than a decade and resistance to dimethachlone has recently been reported in China. Compared with sensitive isolates, the three dimethachlone resistant isolates with resistance ratios of 78.3, 85.5, and 94.8 exhibited significantly (P<0.05) higher cell membrane permeability and peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activities. Dimethachlone at 0.25μg/mL significantly increased cell membrane permeability and enhanced activity of the two enzymes in both resistant and sensitive isolates. There were no significant differences in glycerol or oxalate content between the resistant and sensitive isolates. Dimethachlone treatment increased glycerol content in the resistant isolates and reduced in the sensitive isolates (P<0.01). Sequencing of three genes involved in two-component signal pathway and of three genes in mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase cascade demonstrated that the dimethachlone resistant isolates HLJ4 and HLJ6 harbored point mutations of I232T and G1087D, respectively, in the deduce amino acid sequence of the histidine kinase (HK) gene Sshk. HLJ4 had a point mutation of P96L in the deduced amino acid sequence of the MAP kinase-kinase gene SsPbs. The expression levels of the Sshk gene were higher in HLJ4 and HLJ6 than in HLJ3 and the sensitive isolate HLJMG2, and transcription of the Sshk gene was up-regulated by dimethachlone for the three resistant isolates.

Effect of Bioactive Primers on Bacterial-Induced Secondary Caries at the Tooth-Resin Interface

Secondary caries at the tooth-resin interface is the primary reason for replacement of resin composite restorations. The tooth-resin interface is formed by the interlocking of resin material with hydroxyapatite crystals in enamel and collagen mesh structure in dentin. Efforts to strengthen the tooth-resin interface have identified chemical agents with dentin collagen cross-linking potential and antimicrobial activities. The purpose of the present study was to assess protective effects of bioactive primer against secondary caries development around enamel and dentin margins of class V restorations, using an in vitro bacterial caries model. Class V composite restorations were prepared on 60 bovine teeth (n=15) with pretreatment of the cavity walls with control buffer solution, an enriched fraction of grape seed extract (e-GSE), 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethyl aminopropyl)-carbodiimide/N-hydroxysuccinimide, or chlorhexidine digluconate. After incubating specimens in a bacterial model with Streptococcus mutans for four days, dentin and enamel were assessed by fluorescence microscopy. Results revealed that only the naturally occurring product, e-GSE, significantly inhibited the development of secondary caries immediately adjacent to the dentin-resin interface, as indicated by the caries inhibition zone. No inhibitory effects were observed in enamel margins. The results suggest that the incorporation of e-GSE into components of the adhesive system may inhibit secondary caries and potentially contribute to the protection of highly vulnerable dentin-resin margins.

Exploring mechanisms of resistance to dimethachlone in Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

BACKGROUND

The dicarboximide fungicide dimethachlone has been widely used in China for more than 12 years to control the Sclerotinia stem rot caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum disease. First signs of resistance in the field are reported at low frequency. In this study, four resistant isolate/mutants were used to explore still unknown mechanisms leading to dimethachlone resistance.

RESULTS

The resistant isolate/mutants had significantly higher EC50 values compared with the sensitive control isolates. Cross-resistance was confirmed between dimethachlone and procymidone, iprodione and fludioxonil. The resistant isolate/mutants revealed a decreased mycelial growth rate, were less pathogenic on leaves of oilseed rape, were more sensitive to osmotic pressure and oxidative stress and released more electrolytes compared with the sensitive isolates. Only in one lab mutant did we find a point mutation (V238A) in the SsOs1 gene of the high-osmolarity glycerol (HOG) signalling pathway. The expression of this gene was lost in the field resistant isolate HN456-1-JBJ and decreased in mycelium that was subjected to either high osmotic pressure or dimethachlone; however, another key gene in the HOG pathway, SsHog1, could be induced in the resistant isolate and mutants with NaCl treatment.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that resistance to dicarboximide fungicide dimethachlone in S. sclerotiorum is emerging in China. Several fitness parameters, including mycelial growth rate, sclerotia formed in vitro, aggressiveness on leaves and osmotic and H2 O2 sensitivity, indicate that the resistant strains may not effectively compete with sensitive isolates in the field in the absence of selection pressure. Lost expression or the V238A point mutation in the SsOs1 gene may confer resistance to dicarboximide fungicide dimethachlone in S. sclerotiorum, but this study illustrates that other, yet unknown mechanisms also exist.

CD36 Mediated Fatty Acid-Induced Podocyte Apoptosis via Oxidative Stress

Background

Hyperlipidemia-induced apoptosis mediated by fatty acid translocase CD36 is associated with increased uptake of ox-LDL or fatty acid in macrophages, hepatocytes and proximal tubular epithelial cells, leading to atherosclerosis, liver damage and fibrosis in obese patients, and diabetic nephropathy (DN), respectively. However, the specific role of CD36 in podocyte apoptosis in DN with hyperlipidemia remains poorly investigated.

Methods

The expression of CD36 was measured in paraffin-embedded kidney tissue samples (Ctr = 18, DN = 20) by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining. We cultured conditionally immortalized mouse podocytes (MPC5) and treated cells with palmitic acid, and measured CD36 expression by real-time PCR, Western blot analysis and immunofluorescence; lipid uptake by Oil red O staining and BODIPY staining; apoptosis by flow cytometry assay, TUNEL assay and Western blot analysis; and ROS production by DCFH-DA fluorescence staining. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS 21.0 statistical software.

Results

CD36 expression was increased in kidney tissue from DN patients with hyperlipidemia. Palmitic acid upregulated CD36 expression and promoted its translocation from cytoplasm to plasma membrane in podocytes. Furthermore, palmitic acid increased lipid uptake, ROS production and apoptosis in podocytes, Sulfo-N-succinimidyloleate (SSO), the specific inhibitor of the fatty acid binding site on CD36, decreased palmitic acid-induced fatty acid accumulation, ROS production, and apoptosis in podocytes. Antioxidant 4-hydroxy-2,2,6,6- tetramethylpiperidine -1-oxyl (tempol) inhibited the overproduction of ROS and apoptosis in podocytes induced by palmitic acid.

Conclusions

CD36 mediated fatty acid-induced podocyte apoptosis via oxidative stress might participate in the process of DN.

Three weeks of murine hindlimb unloading induces shifts from B to T and from th to tc splenic lymphocytes in absence of stress and differentially reduces cell-specific mitogenic responses

Extended space missions are known to induce stress and immune dysregulation. Hindlimb unloading is a ground-based model used to reproduce most spaceflight conditions. The aim of this study was to better characterize the consequences of prolonged exposure to hindlimb unloading on murine splenic lymphocyte sub-populations. To ensure that the observed changes were not due to tail restraint but to the antiorthostatic position, three groups of mice were used: control (C), orthostatic restrained (R) and hindlimb unloaded (HU). After 21 days of exposure, no difference in serum corticosterone levels nor in thymus and spleen weights were observed between HU mice and their counterparts, revealing a low state of stress. Interestingly, flow cytometric analyses showed that B cells were drastically reduced in HU mouse spleens by 59% and, while the T cells number did not change, the Th/Tc ratio was decreased. Finally, the use of a fluorescent dye monitoring lymphoproliferation demonstrated that lymphocyte response to mitogen was reduced in Th and Tc populations and to a greater extent in B cells. Thus, we showed for the first time that, even if restraint has its own effects on the animals and their splenic lymphocytes, the prolonged antiorthostatic position leads, despite the absence of stress, to an inversion of the B/T ratio in the spleen. Furthermore, the lymphoproliferative response was impaired with a strong impact on B cells. Altogether, these results suggest that B cells are more affected by hindlimb unloading than T cells which may explain the high susceptibility to pathogens, such as gram-negative bacteria, described in animal models and astronauts.

Conjugation of a brain-penetrant peptide with neurotensin provides antinociceptive properties

Neurotensin (NT) has emerged as an important modulator of nociceptive transmission and exerts its biological effects through interactions with 2 distinct GPCRs, NTS1 and NTS2. NT provides strong analgesia when administered directly into the brain; however, the blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a major obstacle for effective delivery of potential analgesics to the brain. To overcome this challenge, we synthesized chemical conjugates that are transported across the BBB via receptor-mediated transcytosis using the brain-penetrant peptide Angiopep-2 (An2), which targets LDL receptor-related protein-1 (LRP1). Using in situ brain perfusion in mice, we found that the compound ANG2002, a conjugate of An2 and NT, was transported at least 10 times more efficiently across the BBB than native NT. In vitro, ANG2002 bound NTS1 and NTS2 receptors and maintained NT-associated biological activity. In rats, i.v. ANG2002 induced a dose-dependent analgesia in the formalin model of persistent pain. At a dose of 0.05 mg/kg, ANG2002 effectively reversed pain behaviors induced by the development of neuropathic and bone cancer pain in animal models. The analgesic properties of ANG2002 demonstrated in this study suggest that this compound is effective for clinical management of persistent and chronic pain and establish the benefits of this technology for the development of neurotherapeutics.

Bi-functional cross-linking reagents efficiently capture protein-DNA complexes in Drosophila embryos

Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) is widely used for mapping DNA-protein interactions across eukaryotic genomes in cells, tissues or even whole organisms. Critical to this procedure is the efficient cross-linking of chromatin-associated proteins to DNA sequences that are in close proximity. Since the mid-nineties formaldehyde fixation has been the method of choice. However, some protein-DNA complexes cannot be successfully captured for ChIP using formaldehyde. One such formaldehyde refractory complex is the developmentally regulated insulator factor, Elba. Here we describe a new embryo fixation procedure using the bi-functional cross-linking reagents DSG (disuccinimidyl glutarate) and DSP (dithiobis[succinimidyl propionate). We show that unlike standard formaldehyde fixation protocols, it is possible to capture Elba association with insulator elements in 2-5 h embryos using this new cross-linking procedure. We show that this new cross-linking procedure can also be applied to localize nuclear proteins that are amenable to ChIP using standard formaldehyde cross-linking protocols, and that in the cases tested the enrichment was generally superior to that achieved using formaldehyde cross-linking.

Phomapyrrolidones A-C, antitubercular alkaloids from the endophytic fungus Phoma sp. NRRL 46751

Three new alkaloids, phomapyrrolidones A-C (1-3), bearing a cyclopenta[b]fluorene ring system were isolated from the mycelium extract of the endophytic fungal strain Phoma sp. NRRL 46751, inhabiting Saurauia scaberrinae. Methylation of 1 afforded its N-methyl derivative 4. The planar structures and relative configurations of 1-4 were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis. Phomapyrrolidones B (2) and C (3) exhibited weak antitubercular activity at subcytotoxic concentrations.

Effects of chirality on the antifungal potency of methylated succinimides obtained by Aspergillus fumigatus biotransformations. comparison with racemic ones

Eighteen (3R) and (3R,4R)-N-phenyl-, N-phenylalkyl and N-arylsuccinimides were prepared with high enantioselectivity by biotransformation of maleimides with A. fumigatus. This environmentally friendly, clean and economical procedure was performed by the whole-cell fungal bioconversion methodology. Their corresponding eighteen racemic succinimides were prepared instead by synthetic methods. Both, the racemic and the chiral succinimides were tested simultaneously by the microbroth dilution method of CLSI against a panel of human opportunistic pathogenic fungi of clinical importance. Chiral succinimides showed higher antifungal activity than the corresponding racemic ones and the differences in activity were established by statistical methods. The bottlenecks for developing chiral drugs are how to obtain them through a low-cost procedure and with high enantiomeric excess. Results presented here accomplish both these objectives, opening an avenue for the development of asymmetric succinimides as new antifungal drugs for pharmaceutical use.

Proapoptotic activity of heterocyclic compounds containing succinimide moiety in the promyelocytic leukemia cell line HL-60

In the present paper, we describe proapoptotic activity of several heterocyclic compounds 9, 12, 18, 19 and 20 possessing succinimide (as well as succinimide related) moieties. The compounds properties were examined with the aid of flow cytometry on the promyelocytic leukemia cell line HL-60. The highest proapoptotic activity exhibited compound 12 (4-{4-[4-(2-methoxyphenyl)piperazin-1-yl]butyl}-1,7-diethyl-8,9-diphenyl-4-azatricyklo[5.2.1.0(2,6)]-dec-8-ene-3,5,10-trione). The synthesis of compounds 1-17 is also described. The structures of obtained compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR, ESI MS and/or elemental analyses.

Cellular response to substrate rigidity is governed by either stress or strain

Cells sense the rigidity of their substrate; however, little is known about the physical variables that determine their response to this rigidity. Here, we report traction stress measurements carried out using fibroblasts on polyacrylamide gels with Young's moduli ranging from 6 to 110 kPa. We prepared the substrates by employing a modified method that involves N-acryloyl-6-aminocaproic acid (ACA). ACA allows for covalent binding between proteins and elastomers and thus introduces a more stable immobilization of collagen onto the substrate when compared to the conventional method of using sulfo-succinimidyl-6-(4-azido-2-nitrophenyl-amino) hexanoate (sulfo-SANPAH). Cells remove extracellular matrix proteins off the surface of gels coated using sulfo-SANPAH, which corresponds to lower values of traction stress and substrate deformation compared to gels coated using ACA. On soft ACA gels (Young's modulus <20 kPa), cell-exerted substrate deformation remains constant, independent of the substrate Young's modulus. In contrast, on stiff substrates (Young's modulus >20 kPa), traction stress plateaus at a limiting value and the substrate deformation decreases with increasing substrate rigidity. Sustained substrate strain on soft substrates and sustained traction stress on stiff substrates suggest these may be factors governing cellular responses to substrate rigidity.

Role of fatty acid transport protein 4 in oleic acid-induced glucagon-like peptide-1 secretion from murine intestinal L cells

The antidiabetic intestinal L cell hormone glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) enhances glucose-dependent insulin secretion and inhibits gastric emptying. GLP-1 secretion is stimulated by luminal oleic acid (OA), which crosses the cell membrane by an unknown mechanism. We hypothesized that L cell fatty acid transport proteins (FATPs) are essential for OA-induced GLP-1 release. Therefore, the murine GLUTag L cell model was used for immunoblotting, [(3)H]OA uptake assay, and GLP-1 secretion assay as determined by radioimmunoassay following treatment with OA ± phloretin, sulfo-N-succinimidyl oleate, or siRNA against FATP4. FATP4(-/-) and cluster-of-differentiation 36 (CD36)(-/-) mice received intraileal OA, and plasma GLP-1 was measured by sandwich immunoassay. GLUTag cells were found to express CD36, FATP1, FATP3, and FATP4. The cells demonstrated specific (3)H[OA] uptake that was dose-dependently inhibited by 500 and 1,000 μM unlabeled OA (P < 0.001). Cell viability was not altered by treatment with OA. Phloretin and sulfo-N-succinimidyl oleate, inhibitors of protein-mediated transport and CD36, respectively, also decreased [(3)H]OA uptake, as did knockdown of FATP4 by siRNA transfection (P < 0.05-0.001). OA dose-dependently increased GLP-1 secretion at 500 and 1,000 μM (P < 0.001), whereas phloretin, sulfo-N-succinimidyl oleate, and FATP4 knockdown decreased this response (P < 0.05-0.01). FATP4(-/-) mice displayed lower plasma GLP-1 at 60 min in response to intraileal OA (P < 0.05), whereas, unexpectedly, CD36(-/-) mice displayed higher basal GLP-1 levels (P < 0.01) but a normal response to intraileal OA. Together, these findings demonstrate a key role for FATP4 in OA-induced GLP-1 secretion from the murine L cell in vitro and in vivo, whereas the precise role of CD36 remains unclear.

Link between intestinal CD36 ligand binding and satiety induced by a high protein diet in mice

CD36 is a ubiquitous membrane glycoprotein that binds long-chain fatty acids. The presence of a functional CD36 is required for the induction of satiety by a lipid load and its role as a lipid receptor driving cellular signal has recently been demonstrated. Our project aimed to further explore the role of intestinal CD36 in the regulation of food intake. Duodenal infusions of vehicle or sulfo-N-succinimidyl-oleate (SSO) was performed prior to acute infusions of saline or Intralipid (IL) in mice. Infusion of minute quantities of IL induced a decrease in food intake (FI) compared to saline. Infusion of SSO had the same effect but no additive inhibitory effect was observed in presence of IL. No IL- or SSO-mediated satiety occurred in CD36-null mice. To determine whether the CD36-mediated hypophagic effect of lipids was maintained in animals fed a satietogen diet, mice were subjected to a High-Protein diet (HPD). Concomitantly with the satiety effect, a rise in intestinal CD36 gene expression was observed. No satiety effect occurred in CD36-null mice. HPD-fed WT mice showed a diminished FI compared to control mice, after saline duodenal infusion. But there was no further decrease after lipid infusion. The lipid-induced decrease in FI observed on control mice was accompanied by a rise in jejunal oleylethanolamide (OEA). Its level was higher in HPD-fed mice than in controls after saline infusion and was not changed by lipids. Overall, we demonstrate that lipid binding to intestinal CD36 is sufficient to produce a satiety effect. Moreover, it could participate in the satiety effect induced by HPD. Intestine can modulate FI by several mechanisms including an increase in OEA production and CD36 gene expression. Furthermore, intestine of mice adapted to HPD have a diminished capacity to modulate their food intake in response to dietary lipids.

Yeast-derived beta-(1-3),(1-6)-D-glucan induces up-regulation of CD86 on dectin-1-positive human B-lymphoma cell lines

BACKGROUND

The knowledge of direct effects of β-glucans on tumor cells is limited. This study evaluated the impact of a soluble yeast-derived beta-(1-3),(1-6)-d-glucan, containing a fraction of aggregated sugar polymers, on viability, proliferation and expression of CD86 of the human B-cell lymphoma cell lines Daudi and Raji.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Proliferation of carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimidyl ester (CFSE)-stained cell lines was determined by measuring depletion of the dye and cell death was quantified by staining with propidium iodide, both by flow cytometry. Surface expression of CD86 and the beta-glucan receptors dectin-1 and complement receptor 3 (CR3) was assessed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Exposure to the carbohydrate increased the expression of CD86 on both dectin-1(+)CR3(-) cell lines, whereas proliferation and viability of the cells were not affected.

CONCLUSION

Yeast-derived beta-glucan lacks cytotoxic effects towards B-lymphoma cells but up-regulation of CD86 suggests maturation of the cells via dectin-1 by the carbohydrate.

Application of carbodiimide derivatized synovial fluid to enhance extrasynovial tendon gliding ability

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of surface modification of extrasynovial tendon with a carbodiimide derivatized synovial fluid (SF) on the gliding ability of extrasynovial tendon for a possible tendon graft application.

METHODS

We used 63 peroneus longus tendons from canine hind legs. We immediately assessed 3 tendons morphologically using a scanning electron microscope (SEM); these served as the normal tendon group. The other 60 tendons were randomly assigned to each of 6 experimental groups treated with (1) control (saline); (2) 1% 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) plus 1% N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) (cd only); (3) 1% EDC/NHS plus 10% gelatin (cd-G); (4) SF plus 1% EDC/NHS plus 10% gelatin (cd-SF-G); (5) SF only; or (6) SF plus 1% EDC/NHS (cd-SF). We measured the gliding resistance for 1,000 cycles of simulated flexion-extension motion. We also observed the tendon surface smoothness by SEM.

RESULTS

Compared with the first cycle in each group, the gliding resistance after 1,000 cycles of tendon motion was significantly increased in the control, cd only, cd-gelatin, SF only, and cd-SF groups (p<.05). In contrast, we found no significant difference in gliding resistance between the first cycle and 1,000 cycles for the cd-SF-G-treated group. In addition, the gliding resistance in the cd-SF, cd-G, and cd-SF-G groups was significantly lower than the control group after 1,000 cycles of tendon motion (p<.05) and the gliding resistance of the cd-SF-G group was significantly lower than both the cd-G and cd-SF groups (p<.05). On SEM, the surface treated with cd-SF-G was smooth after 1,000 cycles, whereas the other surfaces were rough.

CONCLUSIONS

Surface modification of extrasynovial tendon with cd-SF-G improves tendon gliding ability. This treatment may be useful clinically in improving the outcomes of tendon autografts.

Synthesis and characterization of gelatin nanoparticles using CDI/NHS as a non-toxic cross-linking system

Gelatin nanoparticles, cross-linked by a mixture of a water soluble carbodiimide (CDI) and N-hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) as a non-toxic cross-linking system, was prepared. The conventional two step desolvation method with acetone as the non-solvent was used. The mean size and size distribution as well as the morphology of the formed nanoparticles were evaluated and compared with those of nanoparticles cross-linked by glutaraldehyde (GA) as the most commonly used cross-linking agent. Furthermore, intrinsic viscosities of the nanoparticles cross-linked by CDI/NHS and GA were measured and compared under various conditions. The results showed the formation of smoother and more homogeneous nanoparticles with smaller size when CDI/NHS used as cross-linking agent under the same synthesis condition. Moreover, nanoparticles encapsulating paracetamol as a model drug were produced by the two different cross-linking agents and were characterized for drug entrapment and loading efficiencies and in vitro drug release. Both drug entrapment and loading efficiencies was higher in the CDI/NHS cross-linked nanoparticles; however, the release kinetics was comparable to that of nanoparticles cross-linked with GA. The differences in the characteristics of CDI/NHS and GA cross-linked nanoparticles were attributed to the different nature of network structures formed by the two cross-linking agents. On the whole, these results suggested that CDI/NHS cross-linked nanoparticles have high potential to be used for drug delivery application in preference to the nanoparticles synthesized by toxic cross-linking agents.

Visualization of heavy ion tracks by labeling 3'-OH termini of induced DNA strand breaks

African green monkey kidney cells, CV-1, were irradiated with Carbon ions (LET: 735 keV/µm Argon ions (LET: 3,000 keV/µm) to visualize ion tracks through the cell nucleus by labeling the 3'-OH termini result of DNA strand breaks. The 3'-OH termini of DNA were labeled with BrdU-triphosphate catalyzed by TdT. This method of TUNEL (TdT-mediated dUTP Nick End labeling) is based on the specific binding of TdT to 3'-OH termini of DNA. Subsequent immuno-fluorescent staining with the primary monoclonal antibody against BrdU, followed by a secondary antibody of Alexa Fluor 488, was performed to visualize the BrdU labeled DNA termini. Images of the cell nuclei were acquired by confocal laser microscopy. When cell monolayers were irradiated perpendicularly with argon ions, induced DSBs in cell nuclei were identifiable as fluorescent spots. In another irradiation setup, when cells were irradiated at a small angle with incident argon ions, DNA strand breaks were detected as fluorescent stripes across the cell nucleus. These results demonstrate the induction of 3'-OH termini at sites of DNA strand breaks along Argon ion tracks.

RGD-functionalisation of PLLA nanofibers by surface coupling using plasma treatment: influence on stem cell differentiation

The aim of this study was to functionalize the surface of synthetic poly-(l-lactic) (PLLA) nanofibers with RGD peptide, in order to promote growth and osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) in vitro. The cRGD was coupled onto PLLA nanofibers using oxygen plasma combined with EDC/sulfo-NHS activation. Matrices were seeded with hMSC and cultivated over a period of 22 days under growth conditions and analyzed during the course of cultivation. The plasma activation of PLLA nanofibers resulted in a reduction of hydrophobicity as well as a formation of carboxyl groups on the surface of the fibers. Furthermore, maximum load, but not young's modulus was influenced by the treatment with oxygen plasma. When hMSC were cultured onto the cRGD functionalized scaffolds, cells showed no increased proliferation or cell density but an induction of genes associated with the osteoblast lineage. In brief, this study indicates that functional peptides of the extracellular matrix can be coupled onto PLLA nanofibers using plasma treatment in combination with EDC/sulfo-NHS treatment. These groups are accessible for the growing cell and mediate probably some osteoinductive properties of collagen nanofibers.

Synthesis, physicochemical and anticonvulsant properties of new N-[(4-arylpiperazin-1-yl)alkyl]-3-phenyl- and 3-(3-methyl-phenyl)-pyrrolidine-2,5-diones

The series of N-[(4-arylpiperazin-1-yl)-alkyl]-3-phenyl- and 3-(3-methylphenyl)-pyrrolidine-2,5-diones [VIII-XXV] were synthesized and evaluated for anticonvulsant and neurotoxic properties. Initial anticonvulsant screening was performed in mice, using intraperitoneal (ip) maximal electroshock-induced seizures (MES) and subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole-induced (scPTZ) seizure threshold tests. The neurotoxicity was determined applying the rotorod screen. Compounds VIII-XXV revealed protection only in the electrically induced seizures or were inactive. The most active were Mannich bases of 3-(3-methylphenyl)-pyrrolidine-2,5-dione with electron-withdrawing substituents at position-3 of 4-arylpiperazine fragment [XVII, XVIII], as well as compounds with ethylene or propylene spacer between imide and 4-arylpiperazine nitrogen atoms [XX-XXII, XXV]. All these compounds showed anti-MES protection in mice at doses of 100 mg/kg. Additionally, when given orally, compound XVIII was also active in rats MES screen at a dose of 30 mg/kg.

Synthesis and anticonvulsant activity of new spirosuccinimides differently substituted at the imide nitrogen atom

In the present study the series of spirosuccinimides with the aromatic ring at the imide nitrogen atom was synthesized. All the compounds were tested for their anticonvulsant activity in the maximal electroshock (MES) and subcutaneous pentylenetetrazole (scPTZ) screens. The neurotoxic properties were determined applying the rotorod test (TOX). The most active were N-(2-methoxyphenyl)- [V] and N-(4-chlorophenyl-amino)-2-azaspiro[4.5]decane-1,3-dione [XI] that inhibited seizures at a dose of 100 mg/kg in the scPTZ and MES tests, respectively. The other derivatives, namely N-(3-methoxyphenyl)- [VI], N-(1-phenylethyl)- [VIII], N-(diphenylmethyl)- [IX], N-(6-aminopyridin-2-yl)- [XII] 2-azaspiro[4.5]decane-1,3-diones, and the compounds with the methyl group at position-3 [XIV, XVII] or at position-4 [XVIII] of the cyclohexane ring showed anti-MES and/or anti-scPTZ protections at doses of 300 mg/kg. The results obtained revealed that anticonvulsant activity depended on the substitution mode of the aromatic ring as well as the kind of spacer between imide nitrogen atom and aromatic system.

Proliferative alloresponse of T-cytotoxic cells identifies rejection-prone children with steroid-free liver transplantation

Donor-induced and third-party-induced proliferation of T-helper and T-cytotoxic (Tc) cells and their naïve and memory subsets was evaluated simultaneously in single blood samples from 77 children who received steroid-free liver transplantation (LTx) after induction with rabbit anti-human thymocyte globulin. Proliferation was measured by dilution of the intravital dye carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) in a 3- to 4-day mixed lymphocyte response coculture. The ratio of donor/third-party-induced proliferated (CFSE(low)) T-cells was reported as the immunoreactivity index (IR) for each subset. Rejectors were defined as those who experienced biopsy-proven acute cellular rejection within 60 days of the assay. IR > 1 signified increased risk of rejection, and IR < 1 implied decreased risk. Demographics for 32 rejectors and 45 nonrejectors were similar. Proliferated CFSE(low) T-cells and subsets were significantly higher among rejectors compared with nonrejectors. In 33 of 77 randomly selected children, logistic regression, leave-one-out cross-validation, and receiver operating characteristic analyses showed that the IR of Tc cells was best associated with biopsy-proven rejection (sensitivity > 75%, specificity > 88%). Sensitivity and specificity were replicated in the remaining 44 children who composed the validation cohort. IR of CFSE(low) Tc cells correlated significantly with IR of proinflammatory, allospecific CD154+ Tc cells (r = 0.664, P = 0.0005) and inversely with IR of allospecific, anti-inflammatory, cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen 4-positive Tc cells (r = -0.630, P = 0.007). In conclusion, proliferative alloresponses of Tc cells can identify rejection-prone children receiving LTx. Liver Transpl 15:978-985, 2009. (c) 2009 AASLD.

Analysis of cellular response to isocyanate using N-succinimidyl N-methylcarbamate exposure in cultured mammalian cells

Isocyanates (R--N==C==O), one of the highly reactive industrial intermediates, possess the capability to modulate the bio-molecules by forming toxic metabolites and adducts which may cause adverse health effects. Some of their toxic degradations have previously been unknown and overlooked; of which, molecular repercussions underlying their genetic hazards upon occupational/accidental exposures still remain as an intricate issue and are hitherto unknown. To assess the genotoxic potential of methyl isocyanate in cultured mammalian cells after in vitro exposure, we performed a study in three different normal cell lines MM55.K (mouse kidney epithelial), B/CMBA.Ov (mouse ovarian epithelial), and NIH/3T3 (primary mouse embryonic fibroblast). Cellular DNA damage response was studied for qualitative phosphorylation states of ATM, gammaH2AX proteins and quantitative state of p53 phosphorylation; DNA cell cycle analysis and measure of cellular apoptotic index before and after treatment were also investigated. Our results demonstrate that methyl isocyanate by negatively regulating the DNA damage response pathway, might promote cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in cultured mammalian cells suggestive of causing genetic alterations. We anticipate that these data along with other studies reported in the literature would help to design better approaches in risk assessment of occupational and accidental exposure to isocyanates. We also predict that increasing knowledge on DNA damage-triggered signaling leading to cell death could provide new strategies for investigating the effects of DNA repair disorders and decreased repair capacity on the toxicity and carcinogenic properties of environmental toxins.

Antibody-labeled liposomes for CT imaging of atherosclerotic plaques: in vitro investigation of an anti-ICAM antibody-labeled liposome containing iohexol for molecular imaging of atherosclerotic plaques via computed tomography

We evaluated the specific binding of anti-intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) conjugated liposomes (immunoliposomes, or ILs) to activated human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAEC) with the purpose of designing a computed tomographic imaging agent for early detection of atherosclerotic plaques. Covalent attachment of anti-ICAM-1 monoclonal antibodies to pre-formed liposomes stabilized with polyethylene glycol yielded ILs, with a coupling efficiency of the ICAM-1 to the liposomes of 10% to 24%. The anti-ICAM-1-labeled ILs had an average diameter of 136 nm as determined by dynamic light-scattering and cryogenic electron microscopy. The ILs' encapsulation of 5-[N-acetyl-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-amino)-N, N'-bis(2,3-dihydroxypropyl)-2,4,6-triiodo-benzene-1,3-dicarboxamide (iohexol) was determined to be 18% to 19% by a dialysis technique coupled with ultraviolet detection of free iohexol. This encapsulation corresponded to 30 to 38 mg iodine per mL IL solution, and the ILs exhibited 91% to 98.5% iohexol retention at room temperature and under physiologic conditions. The specific binding of the ILs to cultured, activated HCAEC was measured using flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, and fluorescence microscopy. The immunosorbent assays demonstrated the specificity of binding of anti-ICAM-1 to ICAM-1 compared with control studies using nonspecific immunoglobulin G-labeled ILs. Flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy experiments demonstrated the expression of ICAM-1 on the surface of activated HCAEC. Therefore, our iohexol-filled ILs demonstrated potential for implementation in computed tomographic angiography to noninvasively detect atherosclerotic plaques that are prone to rupture.

Transplant acceptance following anti-CD4 versus anti-CD40L therapy: evidence for differential maintenance of graft-reactive T cells

Inductive therapy with anti-CD4 or anti-CD40L monoclonal antibodies (mAb) leads to long-term allograft acceptance but the immune parameters responsible for graft maintenance are not well understood. This study employed an adoptive transfer system in which cells from mice bearing long-term cardiac allografts following inductive anti-CD4 or anti-CD40L therapy were transferred into severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) allograft recipients. SCID recipients of cells from anti-CD4-treated mice (anti-CD4 cells) did not reject allografts while those receiving cells from anti-CD40L-treated mice (anti-CD40L cells) did reject allografts. Carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE) labeling of transferred cells revealed that this difference was not associated with differential proliferative capacities of these cells in SCID recipients. Like cells from naïve mice, anti-CD40L cells mounted a Th1 response following transfer while anti-CD4 cells mounted a dominant Th2 response. Early (day 10) T-cell priming was detectable in both groups of primary allograft recipients but persisted to day 30 only in recipients treated with anti-CD4 mAb. Thus, anti-CD40L therapy appears to result in graft-reactive T cells with a naïve phenotype while anti-CD4 therapy allows progression to an altered state of differentiation. Additional data herein support the notion that anti-CD40L mAb targets activated, but not memory, cells for removal or functional silencing.

Synthesis and anticonvulsant properties of new 1-(2-pyridinyl)- 3-substituted pyrrolidine-2,5-dione derivatives

The synthesis and anticonvulsant properties of new 1-(2-pyridinyl)- succinimides [I-XXII] differently substituted at the position-3 of imide ring have been described. The profile of pharmacological activity of these compounds was examined by a maximal electroshock (MES) and pentylenetetrazole (scPTZ) tests, whereas their neurotoxicity was determined using a rotarod screen. The results obtained revealed that the anticonvulsant activity depended mainly on the kind of substituents at the position-3 of pyrrolidine-2,5-dione ring. The most active were 3,3-dialkyl-pyrrolidine-2,5-diones [IX-XVIII] as well as compounds with 3-methylcyclohexane moiety as a spiro nucleus at position-3 of the imide ring [I-IV]. The 3-cyclohexylsuccinimides [V-VIII] with cyclohexane ring as a flexible fragment were less active, whereas unsubstituated derivatives [XIX-XXII] were devoid of activity in both tests applied. In addition, the anti-seizure protection depended on the position of methyl group at the pyridine moiety. The most potent were compounds with the methyl substituent at the position-4 [II, VI, XVII] or -6 [XI, XIV]. It should be noted, that in the whole series the most active was 1-(4-methyl-2-pyridinyl)-3-cyclohexyl-pyrrolidne-2,5-dione [VI], which showed the anti-scPTZ protection at the dose of 30 mg/kg.

Characterization of mutations in AlHK1 gene from Alternaria longipes: implication of limited function of two-component histidine kinase on conferring dicarboximide resistance

Four series (S, M, R, and W) of Alternaria longipes isolates were obtained based on consecutive induction with Dimethachlon (Dim) and ultraviolet irradiation. These isolates were then characterized according to their tolerance to Dim, sensitivity to osmotic stress, and phenotypic properties. All the induced Dim-resistant isolates showed a higher osmosensitivity than the parental strains, and the last generation was more resistant than the first generation in the M, R, and W series. In addition, the changes in the Dim resistance and osmotic sensitivity were not found to be directly correlated, and no distinct morphologic characteristics were found among the resistant and sensitive isolates, with the exception of the resistant isolate K-11. Thus, to investigate the molecular basis of the fungicide resistance, a group III two-component histidine kinase (HK) gene, AlHK1, was cloned from nineteen A. longipes isolates. AlHK1p was found to be comprised of a six 92- amino-acid repeat domain (AARD), HK domain, and response regulator domain, similar to the Os-1p from Neurospora crassa. A comparison of the nucleotide sequences of the AlHK1 gene from the Dim-sensitive and -resistant isolates revealed that all the resistant isolates contained a single-point mutation in the AARD of AlHK1p, with the exception of isolate K-11, where the AlHK1p contained a deletion of 107 amino acids. Moreover, the AlHK1p mutations in the isolates of each respective series involved the same amino acid substitution at the same site, although the resistance levels differed significantly in each series. Therefore, these findings suggested that a mutation in the AARD of AlHK1p was not the sole factor responsible for A. longipes resistance to dicarboximide fungicides.

Pannexin1 channels contain a glycosylation site that targets the hexamer to the plasma membrane

Pannexins are newly discovered channel proteins expressed in many different tissues and abundantly in the vertebrate central nervous system. Based on membrane topology, folding and secondary structure prediction, pannexins are proposed to form gap junction-like structures. We show here that Pannexin1 forms a hexameric channel and reaches the cell surface but, unlike connexins, is N-glycosylated. Using site-directed mutagenesis we analyzed three putative N-linked glycosylation sites and examined the effects of each mutation on channel expression. We show for the first time that Pannexin1 is glycosylated at Asn-254 and that this residue is important for plasma membrane targeting. The glycosylation of Pannexin1 at its extracellular surface makes it unlikely that two oligomers could dock to form an intercellular channel. Ultrastructural analysis by electron microscopy confirmed that Pannexin1 junctional areas do not appear as canonical gap junctions. Rather, Pannexin1 channels are distributed throughout the plasma membrane. We propose that N-glycosylation of Pannexin1 could be a significant mechanism for regulating the trafficking of these membrane proteins to the cell surface in different tissues.

Successful co-immunoprecipitation of Oct4 and Nanog using cross-linking

The transcription factors Oct4 and Nanog are essential for the maintenance of an undifferentiated and pluripotent state in early embryonic cells, embryonic stem cells and embryonal carcinoma cells in humans and mice. These factors are co-localized to promoters of more than 300 genes, and synergistically regulate their activities. Currently, the molecular interaction between these two factors has not been well-characterized. During attempts to co-immunoprecipitate Oct4 and Nanog we found that cross-linking with dithiobis[succinimidylpropionate] was necessary to maintain their interaction. This result was supported by gel filtration analysis. Surprisingly, formaldehyde, a cross-linker commonly used during chromatin immunoprecipitation of Oct4 and Nanog, did not preserve the complex. Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness of using DSP to mitigate the instability of the interaction between these two particular proteins. Additionally, this solution may potentially allow us to identify novel members of the Oct4-Nanog complex, leading to better understanding of the regulatory mechanisms behind pluripotency.

Preparation and characterization of functional poly(ethylene glycol) surfaces for the use of antibody microarrays

Protein microarrays serve as measurement platforms for multianalytical applications. Small molecules, DNA, proteins, and cells are determined quantitatively. Amino-PEG surfaces can be a smart functional platform for protein microarrays with high signal-to-noise ratios. An effective step-by-step chemistry is developed for uniform presentation of terminal functional groups at each monolayer. Poly(ethelene glycol diamine) 2000 (DAPEG, 2000 g/mol) films were prepared onto silanized glass slides presenting epoxy groups. The uniformity of the grafted DAPEG monolayer is characterized by a chemiluminescence reaction using a chemiluminescence microarray reader with automated reagent supply and a horseradish peroxidase (HRP)/luminol reporter system. An intensity line plot on the horizontal axis was generated. The chemiluminescence intensities vary in a range of 2.6%. Antibodies against HRP as model system were immobilized on N-hydroxysuccinimide activated DAPEG layers by means of a microcontact roboter system. Chemiluminescence signals of bound HRP are detected at each spot with a standard deviation of 2.9%. The maximum antibody concentration that can be immobilized at the surface is determined with 1 mg/mL. Additives for an optimal spotting buffer are also studied. The use of the block-copolymer Pluronic F127 as antibody stabilizer is as well investigated as trehalose for the prevention of spot evaporation. The lowest detectable HRP concentration is 0.08 ng/mL determined on anti-HRP antibody microarrays. This study demonstrates how surfaces and analytical parameters for protein microarray applications can be characterized with a chemiluminescence readout system using a HRP reporter system.

Modeling T- and B-cell growth and differentiation

The control of T- and B-cell proliferation following antigen stimulation lies at the heart of the adaptive immune response. The outcome of a response depends on the number of cells that are activated to go into cycle, the rates at which the cells divide and die, and the number of division cycles the cells undergo. Each of these processes may be under independent control, and the precise outcome of T- or B-cell responses to antigen will depend on how the signals controlling the different events are integrated. In this article, the way different mathematical models in combination with data from carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinamidyl ester (CFSE) experiments can be used to investigate the mechanisms controlling T- and B-cell proliferation is reviewed.