[Prospective comparative study of remote results of surgical treatment of patients with varicothrombophlebitis]

The authors examined the effect of the presence of undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia (UCTD) on the clinical course of lower-limb varicose veins (LLVV) and acute varicothrombophlebitis (AVTP) in patients after the Troyanov-Trendelenburg operation. We carried out a prospective comparative study of the remote results during three years after the Troyanov-Trendelenburg operation in a total of 132 patients suffering from AVTP. The Study Group included 67 patients found to have more than four phenotypic traits of UCTD, thus suggesting the presence of UCTD. The Comparison Group consisted of 65 patients with no signs of UCTD. During three-year follow up, relapses of AVTP were diagnosed in 22 (32.8%) patients of the Study Group and in 5 (7.7%) patients of the Comparison Group (p<0.01). In four (6.0%) patients with UCTD, the thrombus propagated to the perforating veins of the crus, new danger of pulmonary embolism arose, and emergency phlebectomy was required. Thrombosis of the femoral vein was revealed in eight (11.9%) patients of the Study Group, and being free-floating in two (3.0%) of them, it was the cause of pulmonary embolism. They were subjected to plication of the external iliac vein. No thromboses of deep veins were revealed in the Comparison Group patients. Phlebectomy was performed in 57 (85.1%) patients of the Study Group and in 14 (21.5%) patients of the Comparison Group (p<0.01) due to remaining vertical and horizontal pathological venous reflux. Fifty-one (78.5%) patients of the Comparison Group six months after the Troyanov-Trendelenburg operation were found to have spontaneous restoration of the functional competence of the valvular apparatus of the perforating veins with elimination of the horizontal venous reflux, which predetermined regression of clinical manifestations of varicose veins, with no phlebectomy required. A conclusion drawn is that the clinical course of LLVV on the background of UCTD after the Troyanov-Trendelenburg operation is distinguished by predisposition to progression of chronic venous insufficiency and is characterised by a relapsing pattern of AVTP. Therefore, surgical policy, as well as medicamentous treatment after disconnection of the saphenofemoral junction in patients with AVTP should be decided upon with due regard for the phenotypic signs characterising UCTD.

Naked Mole Rat Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells and Their Contribution to Interspecific Chimera

Naked mole rats (NMRs) are exceptionally long-lived, cancer-resistant rodents. Identifying the defining characteristics of these traits may shed light on aging and cancer mechanisms. Here, we report the generation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from NMR fibroblasts and their contribution to mouse-NMR chimeric embryos. Efficient reprogramming could be observed under N2B27+2i conditions. The iPSCs displayed a characteristic morphology, expressed pluripotent markers, formed embryoid bodies, and showed typical differentiation patterns. Interestingly, NMR embryonic fibroblasts and the derived iPSCs had propensity for a tetraploid karyotype and were resistant to forming teratomas, but within mouse blastocysts they contributed to both interspecific placenta and fetus. Gene expression patterns of NMR iPSCs were more similar to those of human than mouse iPSCs. Overall, we uncovered unique features of NMR iPSCs and report a mouse-NMR chimeric model. The iPSCs and associated cell culture systems can be used for a variety of biological and biomedical applications.

Using DNA Methylation Profiling to Evaluate Biological Age and Longevity Interventions

The DNA methylation levels of certain CpG sites are thought to reflect the pace of human aging. Here, we developed a robust predictor of mouse biological age based on 90 CpG sites derived from partial blood DNA methylation profiles. The resulting clock correctly determines the age of mouse cohorts, detects the longevity effects of calorie restriction and gene knockouts, and reports rejuvenation of fibroblast-derived iPSCs. The data show that mammalian DNA methylomes are characterized by CpG sites that may represent the organism's biological age. They are scattered across the genome, they are distinct in human and mouse, and their methylation gradually changes with age. The clock derived from these sites represents a biomarker of aging and can be used to determine the biological age of organisms and evaluate interventions that alter the rate of aging.

Position-dependent termination and widespread obligatory frameshifting in Euplotes translation

The ribosome can change its reading frame during translation in a process known as programmed ribosomal frameshifting. These rare events are supported by complex mRNA signals. However, we found that the ciliates Euplotes crassus and Euplotes focardii exhibit widespread frameshifting at stop codons. 47 different codons preceding stop signals resulted in either +1 or +2 frameshifts, and +1 frameshifting at AAA was the most frequent. The frameshifts showed unusual plasticity and rapid evolution, and had little influence on translation rates. The proximity of a stop codon to the 3' mRNA end, rather than its occurrence or sequence context, appeared to designate termination. Thus, a 'stop codon' is not a sufficient signal for translation termination, and the default function of stop codons in Euplotes is frameshifting, whereas termination is specific to certain mRNA positions and probably requires additional factors.

Dihydroquercetin Does Not Affect Age-Dependent Increase in Blood Pressure and Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Activity in the Aorta of Hypertensive Rats

We analyzed changes in angiotensin-converting enzyme activity in the aorta of hypertensive SHR rats against the background of age-related BP increase (from week 7 to 14) and the effect of dihydroquercetin on BP rise and angiotensin-converting enzyme activity. Normotensive WKY rats of the same age were used as the control. BP and activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme in the aorta of SHR rats increased with age. Dihydroquercetin in doses of 100 and 300 μg/kg per day had no effect on the increase of these parameters; dihydroquercetin administered to 14-week-old WKY rats in a dose of 300 μg/kg reduced activity of the angiotensin-converting enzyme. Thus, the early (7-14 weeks) increase in BP and angiotensin-converting enzyme activity in the aorta of SHR rats was not modified by flavonoids (dihydroquercetin) in contrast to other rat strains and humans, which is indicative of specificity of hypertension mechanism in SHR rats.

Selenoprotein Gene Nomenclature

The human genome contains 25 genes coding for selenocysteine-containing proteins (selenoproteins). These proteins are involved in a variety of functions, most notably redox homeostasis. Selenoprotein enzymes with known functions are designated according to these functions: TXNRD1, TXNRD2, and TXNRD3 (thioredoxin reductases), GPX1, GPX2, GPX3, GPX4, and GPX6 (glutathione peroxidases), DIO1, DIO2, and DIO3 (iodothyronine deiodinases), MSRB1 (methionine sulfoxide reductase B1), and SEPHS2 (selenophosphate synthetase 2). Selenoproteins without known functions have traditionally been denoted by SEL or SEP symbols. However, these symbols are sometimes ambiguous and conflict with the approved nomenclature for several other genes. Therefore, there is a need to implement a rational and coherent nomenclature system for selenoprotein-encoding genes. Our solution is to use the root symbol SELENO followed by a letter. This nomenclature applies to SELENOF (selenoprotein F, the 15-kDa selenoprotein, SEP15), SELENOH (selenoprotein H, SELH, C11orf31), SELENOI (selenoprotein I, SELI, EPT1), SELENOK (selenoprotein K, SELK), SELENOM (selenoprotein M, SELM), SELENON (selenoprotein N, SEPN1, SELN), SELENOO (selenoprotein O, SELO), SELENOP (selenoprotein P, SeP, SEPP1, SELP), SELENOS (selenoprotein S, SELS, SEPS1, VIMP), SELENOT (selenoprotein T, SELT), SELENOV (selenoprotein V, SELV), and SELENOW (selenoprotein W, SELW, SEPW1). This system, approved by the HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee, also resolves conflicting, missing, and ambiguous designations for selenoprotein genes and is applicable to selenoproteins across vertebrates.

Analysis of cancer genomes reveals basic features of human aging and its role in cancer development

Somatic mutations have long been implicated in aging and disease, but their impact on fitness and function is difficult to assess. Here by analysing human cancer genomes we identify mutational patterns associated with aging. Our analyses suggest that age-associated mutation load and burden double approximately every 8 years, similar to the all-cause mortality doubling time. This analysis further reveals variance in the rate of aging among different human tissues, for example, slightly accelerated aging of the reproductive system. Age-adjusted mutation load and burden correlate with the corresponding cancer incidence and precede it on average by 15 years, pointing to pre-clinical cancer development times. Behaviour of mutation load also exhibits gender differences and late-life reversals, explaining some gender-specific and late-life patterns in cancer incidence rates. Overall, this study characterizes some features of human aging and offers a mechanism for age being a risk factor for the onset of cancer.

Somatic mutations are associated with disease, including cancer. Here, the authors analyse cancer genomic data and show that somatic mutations increase with age and that cancer incidence lags 15 years behind this increase, later in life, mutation and cancer incidence are reduced.

Lokiarchaeota Marks the Transition between the Archaeal and Eukaryotic Selenocysteine Encoding Systems

Selenocysteine (Sec) is the 21st amino acid in the genetic code, inserted in response to UGA codons with the help of RNA structures, the SEC Insertion Sequence (SECIS) elements. The three domains of life feature distinct strategies for Sec insertion in proteins and its utilization. While bacteria and archaea possess similar sets of selenoproteins, Sec biosynthesis is more similar among archaea and eukaryotes. However, SECIS elements are completely different in the three domains of life. Here, we analyze the archaeon Lokiarchaeota that resolves the relationships among Sec insertion systems. This organism has selenoproteins representing five protein families, three of which have multiple Sec residues. Remarkably, these archaeal selenoprotein genes possess conserved RNA structures that strongly resemble the eukaryotic SECIS element, including key eukaryotic protein-binding sites. These structures also share similarity with the SECIS element in archaeal selenoprotein VhuD, suggesting a relation of direct descent. These results identify Lokiarchaeota as an intermediate form between the archaeal and eukaryotic Sec-encoding systems and clarify the evolution of the Sec insertion system.

Gene expression defines natural changes in mammalian lifespan

Mammals differ more than 100-fold in maximum lifespan, which can be altered in either direction during evolution, but the molecular basis for natural changes in longevity is not understood. Divergent evolution of mammals also led to extensive changes in gene expression within and between lineages. To understand the relationship between lifespan and variation in gene expression, we carried out RNA-seq-based gene expression analyses of liver, kidney, and brain of 33 diverse species of mammals. Our analysis uncovered parallel evolution of gene expression and lifespan, as well as the associated life-history traits, and identified the processes and pathways involved. These findings provide direct insights into how nature reversibly adjusts lifespan and other traits during adaptive radiation of lineages.

Evidence that mutation accumulation does not cause aging in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

The concept that mutations cause aging phenotypes could not be directly tested previously due to inability to identify age-related mutations in somatic cells and determine their impact on organismal aging. Here, we subjected Saccharomyces cerevisiae to multiple rounds of replicative aging and assessed de novo mutations in daughters of mothers of different age. Mutations did increase with age, but their low numbers, < 1 per lifespan, excluded their causal role in aging. Structural genome changes also had no role. A mutant lacking thiol peroxidases had the mutation rate well above that of wild-type cells, but this did not correspond to the aging pattern, as old wild-type cells with few or no mutations were dying, whereas young mutant cells with many more mutations continued dividing. In addition, wild-type cells lost mitochondrial DNA during aging, whereas shorter-lived mutant cells preserved it, excluding a causal role of mitochondrial mutations in aging. Thus, DNA mutations do not cause aging in yeast. These findings may apply to other damage types, suggesting a causal role of cumulative damage, as opposed to individual damage types, in organismal aging.

Neurodevelopment and phenotype-modulating functions of S100B protein: a pilot study

The importance of certain neurotrophic proteins found in maternal blood and milk for breastfed infants has remained ambiguous. This study was conducted to present evidence of the impact of an induced deficit of active S100B protein on neonate development. Newborn mice from two groups of mothers, immunized or sham-immunized against S100B, were subjected to various behavioral tests, and the development of their morphological characteristics was recorded from birth until weaning. Morphological problems, including weight gain and fur coating, a delay in the maturation of neurobehavioral systems and a deficit in neuromotor functions, including visual abilities, somato-sensory and posture reactions, muscular strength, locomotion, and fear/orienting processes, were observed in pups of immunized mothers. The S100B protein of external or internal origin in infants may be considered to be a specific factor that determines neuro- and morphological development and a risk-avoidance ('homeward-bent' or fearful) phenotype. The suppression of activity of the S100B protein results in a slower neonatal development and the formation of a risk-tolerant (fearless) phenotype of the offspring. This study thus considers the mechanism of neuroplastic regulation on the extent of sensation-seeking or risk-taking (homeless-like or fearless) and sensation- or risk-avoidance (home-bound or fearful) features in individual phenotypes.

[Photophysical properties and photodynamic activity of nanostructured aluminium phthalocyanines]

We developed water-soluble supramolecular complexes of aluminium phthalocyanine based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles and polyvinylpirrolidone containing rare photoactive nanoaggregates. Radiative lifetimes, extinction coefficients and energy of electronic transitions of isolated and associated metal phthalocyanine complexes were calculated. Nontoxic concentrations of synthesized nanocomposite photosensibilizers were in vitro determined. In present study we compared photodynamic treatment efficacy using different modifications of aluminium phthalocyanine (Photosens®, AlPc-nSiO2 and AlPc-PVP). Mesenchymal stromal cells were used as a model for photodynamic treatment. Intracellular accumulation of aluminium phthalocyanine based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles AlPc-nSiO2 was the most efficient. Illumination of phthalocyanine-loaded cells led to reactive oxygen species generation and subsequent apoptotic cell death. Silica nanoparticles provided a significant decrease of effective phthalocyanine concentration and enhanced cytotoxicity of photodynamic treatment.

Intrinsic expression of a multiexon type 3 deiodinase gene controls zebrafish embryo size

Thyroid hormone is a master regulator of differentiation and growth, and its action is terminated by the enzymatic removal of an inner-ring iodine catalyzed by the selenoenzyme type 3 deiodinase (dio3). Our studies of the zebrafish reveal that the dio3 gene is duplicated in this species and that embryonic deiodination is an important determinant of embryo size. Although both dio3 paralogs encode enzymatically active proteins with high affinity for thyroid hormones, their anatomic patterns of expression are markedly divergent and only embryos with knockdown of dio3b, a biallelically expressed selenoenzyme expressed in the developing central nervous system, manifest severe thyroid hormone-dependent growth restriction at 72 hours post fertilization. This indicates that the embryonic deficiency of dio3, once considered only a placental enzyme, causes microsomia independently of placental physiology and raises the intriguing possibility that fetal abnormalities in human deiodination may present as intrauterine growth retardation. By mapping the gene structures and enzymatic properties of all four zebrafish deiodinases, we also identify dio3b as the first multiexon dio3 gene, containing a large intron separating its open reading frame from its selenocysteine insertion sequence (SECIS) element.

Adaptations to a subterranean environment and longevity revealed by the analysis of mole rat genomes

Subterranean mammals spend their lives in dark, unventilated environments that are rich in carbon dioxide and ammonia and low in oxygen. Many of these animals are also long-lived and exhibit reduced aging-associated diseases, such as neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. We sequenced the genome of the Damaraland mole rat (DMR, Fukomys damarensis) and improved the genome assembly of the naked mole rat (NMR, Heterocephalus glaber). Comparative genome analyses, along with the transcriptomes of related subterranean rodents, revealed candidate molecular adaptations for subterranean life and longevity, including a divergent insulin peptide, expression of oxygen-carrying globins in the brain, prevention of high CO2-induced pain perception, and enhanced ammonia detoxification. Juxtaposition of the genomes of DMR and other more conventional animals with the genome of NMR revealed several truly exceptional NMR features: unusual thermogenesis, an aberrant melatonin system, pain insensitivity, and unique processing of 28S rRNA. Together, these genomes and transcriptomes extend our understanding of subterranean adaptations, stress resistance, and longevity.

[Hydrogen peroxide in artificial photosynthesizing systems]

From the point of view of the concepts of hydrogen peroxide as a source of photosynthetic oxygen (hydrogen) coordination and photochemical properties of chlorophyll and its aggregates towards hydrogen peroxide were considered. The binding energy of H2O and H2O2 with chlorophyll and chlorophyllide depending on their form (monomers, dimers and trimers) was estimated by quantum chemical calculations. It is shown that at an increase of the degree of the pigment aggregation binding energy of H2O2 was more than the energy of H2O. Analysis of experimental results of the photochemical decomposition of hydrogen peroxide using chlorophyll was carried out. Estimates of the thermodynamic parameters (deltaG degrees and deltaH degrees) of the formation of organic compounds from CO2 with water and hydrogen peroxide were compared. The interaction of CO2 with H2O2 requires much less energy consumption than with water for all considered cases. The formation of organic products (formaldehyde, alcohols, carboxylic and carbonylic compounds) and simultaneous production of O2 under the influence of visible light in the systems of inorganic carbon--hydrogen peroxide--chlorophyll (phthalocyanine) is detected by GC/MS method, FTIR spectroscopy, and chemical analysis.

SECISearch3 and Seblastian: new tools for prediction of SECIS elements and selenoproteins

Selenoproteins are proteins containing an uncommon amino acid selenocysteine (Sec). Sec is inserted by a specific translational machinery that recognizes a stem-loop structure, the SECIS element, at the 3′ UTR of selenoprotein genes and recodes a UGA codon within the coding sequence. As UGA is normally a translational stop signal, selenoproteins are generally misannotated and designated tools have to be developed for this class of proteins. Here, we present two new computational methods for selenoprotein identification and analysis, which we provide publicly through the web servers at http://gladyshevlab.org/SelenoproteinPredictionServer or http://seblastian.crg.es. SECISearch3 replaces its predecessor SECISearch as a tool for prediction of eukaryotic SECIS elements. Seblastian is a new method for selenoprotein gene detection that uses SECISearch3 and then predicts selenoprotein sequences encoded upstream of SECIS elements. Seblastian is able to both identify known selenoproteins and predict new selenoproteins. By applying these tools to diverse eukaryotic genomes, we provide a ranked list of newly predicted selenoproteins together with their annotated cysteine-containing homologues. An analysis of a representative candidate belonging to the AhpC family shows how the use of Sec in this protein evolved in bacterial and eukaryotic lineages.

UGA codon position-dependent incorporation of selenocysteine into mammalian selenoproteins

It is thought that the SelenoCysteine Insertion Sequence (SECIS) element and UGA codon are sufficient for selenocysteine (Sec) insertion. However, we found that UGA supported Sec insertion only at its natural position or in its close proximity in mammalian thioredoxin reductase 1 (TR1). In contrast, Sec could be inserted at any tested position in mammalian TR3. Replacement of the 3′-UTR of TR3 with the corresponding segment of a Euplotes crassus TR restricted Sec insertion into the C-terminal region, whereas the 3′-UTR of TR3 conferred unrestricted Sec insertion into E. crassus TR, in which Sec insertion is normally limited to the C-terminal region. Exchanges of 3′-UTRs between mammalian TR1 and E. crassus TR had no effect, as both proteins restricted Sec insertion. We further found that these effects could be explained by the use of selenoprotein-specific SECIS elements. Examination of Sec insertion into other selenoproteins was consistent with this model. The data indicate that mammals evolved the ability to limit Sec insertion into natural positions within selenoproteins, but do so in a selenoprotein-specific manner, and that this process is controlled by the SECIS element in the 3′-UTR.

The central role of selenium in the biochemistry and ecology of the harmful pelagophyte, Aureococcus anophagefferens

The trace element selenium (Se) is required for the biosynthesis of selenocysteine (Sec), the 21st amino acid in the genetic code, but its role in the ecology of harmful algal blooms (HABs) is unknown. Here, we examined the role of Se in the biology and ecology of the harmful pelagophyte, Aureococcus anophagefferens, through cell culture, genomic analyses, and ecosystem studies. This organism has the largest and the most diverse selenoproteome identified to date that consists of at least 59 selenoproteins, including known eukaryotic selenoproteins, selenoproteins previously only detected in bacteria, and novel selenoproteins. The A. anophagefferens selenoproteome was dominated by the thioredoxin fold proteins and oxidoreductase functions were assigned to the majority of detected selenoproteins. Insertion of Sec in these proteins was supported by a unique Sec insertion sequence. Se was required for the growth of A. anophagefferens as cultures grew maximally at nanomolar Se concentrations. In a coastal ecosystem, dissolved Se concentrations were elevated before and after A. anophagefferens blooms, but were reduced by >95% during the peak of blooms to 0.05 nM. Consistent with this pattern, enrichment of seawater with selenite before and after a bloom did not affect the growth of A. anophagefferens, but enrichment during the peak of the bloom significantly increased population growth rates. These findings demonstrate that Se inventories, which can be anthropogenically enriched, can support proliferation of HABs, such as A. anophagefferens through its synthesis of a large arsenal of Se-dependent oxidoreductases that fine-tune cellular redox homeostasis.

[Highly reactive intermediates in photochemistry of chlorophyll]

It is shown that chlorophyll (Chl) has photochemical activity in the reduction of O2 to H2O2. In the case of the monomeric forms of Chl, H2O2 formation occurs with the participation of 1O2, *OH and O2*-. Activity of Chl depends on its microenvironment, and pH of the system. Associated forms of Chl do not photosensitize 102 formation, but are active in transfer of electrons to oxygen, that leads to H2O2 generation. Also it is found that Chl associates are able to act as electron donors to reduce H2PO4- and subsequently form hydrogen atom.

[Influence of high concentration of antibodies to NGF during early embryogenesis on formation of mice behavior in postnatal period]

In this work the influence of high concentration of antibodies to NGF on mouse's progeny has been investigated. During immunization with NGF the highest concentrations of antibodies were created in the first and third days of pregnancy (in different groups of animals). The dependence of abnormalities of mice postnatal development on level of antibodies to NGF at different stages of early embryogenesis has been established. Increasing of abnormalities in the formation of early behavioral acts and more clinically apparent anomalies in the somatic maturation in case of maximum of antibodies on day I of pregnancy has been showed. Immune responses to NGF during early embryogenesis of mice cause lag in the formation of behavioral acts. The latter are characterized by difficulties in sensor-motor coordination of the limbs and more clinically apparent in mice with a maximum of antibodies on day 1 of embryonic development. Infantilism in developing of contacts between progeny and mothers detected in mice with immune reactions may be a sign of serious mental dysontogenesis. The accelerated development of working memory established in mice with immune response to NGF requires further study of the development of cognitive abilities in these animals. The obtained results illustrate the important regulatory role of NGF at the early stages of development of the nervous system.

[Draft macronuclear genome of a ciliate Euplotes crassus]

Basic bioinformatical analysis of the draft Euplotes crassus macronuclear genome and transcriptome suggests that more than a quarter of E. crassus genes contain several exons. A large fraction of all introns is formed by "tiny" introns having length 20-30 bp. Analysis of the transcriptome revealed 63 possible cases of alternative splicing, and also 14 introns with non-standard splicing sites. About 2000 hypothetical genes do not have homologs in other ciliates, and since most of them have the closest homologs in bacterial genomes, they are likely an artifact of the sample preparation. Comparison of the E. crassus genome to the genomes of other ciliates showed an expansion of the same gene families, responsible for the free-living heterotrophic lifestyle.

Genome sequencing reveals insights into physiology and longevity of the naked mole rat

The naked mole rat (NMR, Heterocephalus glaber) is a strictly subterranean, extraordinarily long-lived eusocial mammal¹. Although the size of a mouse, its maximum lifespan exceeds 30 years and makes this animal the longest living rodent. NMRs show negligible senescence, no age-related increase in mortality, and high fecundity until death². In addition to delayed aging, NMRs are resistant to both spontaneous cancer and experimentally induced tumorigenesis^3,4. NMRs pose a challenge to the theories that link aging, cancer and redox homeostasis. Although characterized by significant oxidative stress⁵, the NMR proteome does not show age-related susceptibility to oxidative damage nor increased ubiquitination⁶. NMRs naturally reside in large colonies with a single breeding female, the “queen,” who suppresses the sexual maturity of her subordinates¹¹. NMRs also live in full darkness, at low oxygen and high carbon dioxide concentrations⁷, and are unable to sustain thermogenesis⁸ nor feel certain types of pain^9,10. Here we report sequencing and analysis of the NMR genome, which revealed unique genome features and molecular adaptations consistent with cancer resistance, poikilothermy, hairlessness, altered visual function, circadian rhythms and taste sensing, and insensitivity to low oxygen. This information provides insights into NMR’s exceptional longevity and capabilities to live in hostile conditions, in the dark and at low oxygen. The extreme traits of NMR, together with the reported genome and transcriptome information, offer unprecedented opportunities for understanding aging and advancing many other areas of biological and biomedical research.

Reduced utilization of selenium by naked mole rats due to a specific defect in GPx1 expression

Naked mole rat (MR) Heterocephalus glaber is a rodent model of delayed aging because of its unusually long life span (>28 years). It is also not known to develop cancer. In the current work, tissue imaging by x-ray fluorescence microscopy and direct analyses of trace elements revealed low levels of selenium in the MR liver and kidney, whereas MR and mouse brains had similar selenium levels. This effect was not explained by uniform selenium deficiency because methionine sulfoxide reductase activities were similar in mice and MR. However, glutathione peroxidase activity was an order of magnitude lower in MR liver and kidney than in mouse tissues. In addition, metabolic labeling of MR cells with (75)Se revealed a loss of the abundant glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1) band, whereas other selenoproteins were preserved. To characterize the MR selenoproteome, we sequenced its liver transcriptome. Gene reconstruction revealed standard selenoprotein sequences except for GPx1, which had an early stop codon, and SelP, which had low selenocysteine content. When expressed in HEK 293 cells, MR GPx1 was present in low levels, and its expression could be rescued neither by removing the early stop codon nor by replacing its SECIS element. In addition, GPx1 mRNA was present in lower levels in MR liver than in mouse liver. To determine if GPx1 deficiency could account for the reduced selenium content, we analyzed GPx1 knock-out mice and found reduced selenium levels in their livers and kidneys. Thus, MR is characterized by the reduced utilization of selenium due to a specific defect in GPx1 expression.

Neuron and gliocyte death induced by photodynamic treatment: signal processes and neuron-glial interactions

The mechanisms of photodynamic (PD) damage to neurons and gliocytes are discussed. The spike reactions of neurons are described, with stimulation at high concentrations of photosensitizer and inhibition at low concentrations, accompanying necrosis. Glial cells developed both necrosis and apoptosis. Local laser inactivation of neurons increased light-induced apoptosis of gliocytes, i.e., neurons maintained gliocyte survival. Inter-and intracellular signaling plays an important role in the photolesioning of these cells. Studies using inhibitors and activators of signal proteins demonstrated the involvement of the Ca(2+)-dependent, adenylate cyclase, and tyrosine kinase pathways in the responses of neurons and gliocytes to PD treatment. Pharmacological modulation may alter the selectivity of PD neuron and gliocyte damage and the efficacy of PD treatment.

[Louse-borne typhus potential and new technologies in prediction of epidemic louse-borne typhus outburst]

Features of louse-borne typhus in Russia in the middle of 20th century are considered. Study of the infection source, blood serum in patient after epidemic louse-borne typhus (ELBT) and agent (louse) was performed on territory with high morbidity of pediculosis and ELBT in the years of 2nd world war. New materials of seroimmunological examinations are represented. Priority data of lice morphology based on morphometrical data of lice, collected in Russia and world collection in Berlin are shown. Methods of ELBT prediction are given, special attention is paid to development of mathematic prognostic models based on new technologies.

[Somatic maturation and sensorimotor development of C57BL/6 mice prenatally exposed to cytosine arabinoside]

The topical problem of experimental neurobiology is the development of pharmacological models to search for correlation between induced brain pathology and changes in behavioral phenotype. Cytosine arabinoside (Ara-c) is an antiproliferative agent, exposure to which in the critical period of the embryonic formation of the cortex results in the abnormality of its development. This study was aimed at estimation of the somatic and sensorimotor aspects of the early postnatal maturatrion of behavioral acts in mice with developmental abnormalities of the cortex induced by Ara-c. Pregnant C57BL/6 mice were injected with the substance on the 12.5th 13.5th gestation days. Offspring behavior was studied using a modified Fox battery on the 1st-21st postnatal days. Severe disorders of the sensorimotor development with slight somatic changes were revealed in the offsprings of Ara-c-treated mice. Features of these pathological changes point to a correlation between the developmental changes in behavioral phenotype and irregularities of the cortex formation. This experimental model can be applied to neurobiological and pharmacological studies.

[Search for structural factors responsible for the stability of proteins from thermophilic organisms]

Database including 392 homologous pairs of proteins from thermophilic and mesophilic organisms was created. Using this database we have found that proteins from termophilic organisms contain more atom-atom contacts per residue in comparison with mesophilic homologues. Contribution to increase of the number of contacts gives exterior amino acid residues, accessible for the solvent. Amino acid composition of interior, inaccessible for the solvent, and exterior amino acid residues of proteins from thermophilic and mesophilic organisms were analyzed. We have obtained that exterior residues of proteins from thermophilic organisms contain more such amino acid residues as Lys, Arg and Glu and smaller such amino acid residues as Ala, Asp, Asn. Gln, Ser, and Thr in comparison with proteins from mesophilic organisms. Amino acid compositions of interior residues of considered proteins are not different.

[Death of neurons and glial cells, induced by a photodynamic injury: signaling processes and neurone-glial interactions]

The mechanisms of photodynamic (PD) injury of neurons and glial cells are reviewed. Neuron responses: firing stimulation at high photosensitizer concentrations and inhibition at low concentrations (< 10(-7) M) that were followed by necrosis, are described. Glial cells died from both necrosis and apoptosis. Local laser inactivation of a neuron enhanced PD-induced apoptosis of glial cells, thus indicating that neuron maintained the survival of glia. Inter- and intracellular signaling mediated photodamage of these cells. Using inhibitors or activators of signaling proteins, the involvement of Ca(2+)-, adenylate cyclase- and tyrosine kinase-mediated signaling pathways in responses of neurons and glial cells to photosensitization was shown. Their pharmacological modulation can change selectivity of PD injury of neuronal and glial cells and efficiency of PD therapy.

PDT-induced death of sensory neurons and glial cells in the isolated crayfish stretch receptor after proteolytic treatment

To study the involvement of neuroglial interactions in photodynamic damage of crayfish stretch receptor, which consists of only two neurons surrounded by satellite glial cells (SGCs), we attempted to proteolytically uncouple neurons and glia and then compare the responses of these cells to photosensitization when intercellular communications were intact or impaired. After incubation of isolated stretch receptors with pronase or collagenase they were photosensitized with Photosens, a mixture of sulfonated alumophthalocyanines AlPcS(n) (n = 2, 3, and 4; mean n = 3.1). In the next 6 hr the preparations were double fluorochromed with propidium iodide and Hoechst-33342 to visualize necrotic and apoptotic cells. Proteolytic treatment shortened bioelectric neuron response and precipitated its functional inactivation; however, it did not significantly impair neuron morphology and did not induce its necrosis either in the darkness or under photosensitization. Photodynamic treatment induced necrosis of neurons and SGC and apoptosis of glial cells. Pronase but not collagenase increased percent of necrotic and apoptotic SGCs in the darkness and thus reduced the number of glial cells around the neuron; however, both pronase and collagenase prevented photodynamically induced apoptosis of glial cells. The involvement of neuron-to-glia signaling interactions in this phenomenon is suggested.

Effect of Cholinergic and Adrenergic Receptor Blockade on Arrhythmogenic Activity of Endothelin-1 during Inhibition of Nitric Oxide Synthesis in Awake Mice

We studied the effects of blockade of nicotinic receptors in sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglia (hexamethonium), muscarinic receptors (atropine), and beta1-adrenoceptors (atenolol) on arrhythmogenic activity of endothelin-1 during inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis with Nomega-nitro-L-arginine in NMRI mice. Atropine reduced, while hexamethonium completely abolished the arrhythmogenic effect of endothelin-1 during nitric oxide synthase inhibition. Atenolol potentiated arrhythmogenic activity of Nomega-nitro-L-arginine, but endothelin-1 had no effect on the incidence of arrhythmias under these conditions.

Synthesis of a Water-Soluble Ytterbium Porphyrin–Bovine Serum Albumin Conjugate

The ytterbium complex of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin was synthesized as an IR-fluorescent label and covalently bound to bovine serum albumin. The resulting conjugate fluoresces at 985 nm and is of interest for use in IR-fluorescent tumor diagnostic, immunoassay, and energy transfer studies. The English version of the paper: Russian Journal of Bioorganic Chemistry, 2004, vol. 30, no. 1; see also http://www.maik.ru.

Arrhythmogenic effects of endothelin-1 under conditions of NO-synthase blockade with L-NAME in NMRI mice

Arrythmogenic effects of endothelin-1 were studied in NMRI mice under conditions of NO-synthase blockade with N omega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. Intravenous injection of endothelin-1 increased heart rate variability in awake mice. NO-synthase blockade potentiated the arrythmogenic effects of endothelin-1. In narcotized animals the arrythmogenic effect of endothelin-1 was not observed and was considerably weakened under conditions of NO-synthase blockade. Arrhythmia was paralleled by atrioventricular block and lengthening of the ST segment.

[Fluorescence of meso-tetrakis(4-(carboxy)phenyl)porphine covalently bound to oligonucleotides d(CG)5 and d(TA)5]

The amino-reactive derivative of tetraphenylporphine meso-tetrakis[4-(carboxy)phenyl]porphine (TCPP) was synthesized, which is characterized by a high molar absorption coefficient (epsilon 416 = 36,500 M-1.cm-1). TCPP was covalently attached to oligonucleotides d(CG)5 [d(CG)5-TCPP] and d(TA)5 [d(TA)5-TCPP]. The spectral characteristics of these complexes were studied in 0.01 M phosphate buffer, pH 7 at 23 degrees C. UV-visible absorption spectra of these complexes have a clearly pronounced Soret band at (414 +/- 1) nm for d(CG)5-TCPP and at (412 +/- 1) nm for d(TA)5-TCPP. The fluorescence spectra of these complexes have maxima at (648 +/- 2) nm for d(CG)5-TCPP and at (658 +/- 2) nm for d(TA)5-TCPP. In this study we also determined fluorescence quantum yields q and fluorescence lifetimes tau [q = 0.099 +/- 0.011, tau = (9.0 +/- 0.3) ns for d(CG)5-TCPP and q = 0.080 +/- 0.011, tau = (8.7 +/- 0.3) ns for d(TA)5-TCPP]. A temperature rise from 5 to 50 degrees C produced only slight (within 23%) emission changes in both samples studied. Taking into account: a) high fluorescence yields (q), b) weak dependence of q on temperature, c) weak q dependence of q on the oligonucleotide type, we conclude that TCPP may be used as a sensitive fluorescence label in DNA studies.

Analysis of ethanol-glucose mixtures by two microbial sensors: application of chemometrics and artificial neural networks for data processing

Although biosensors based on whole microbial cells have many advantages in terms of convenience, cost and durability, a major limitation of these sensors is often their inability to distinguish between different substrates of interest. This paper demonstrates that it is possible to use sensors entirely based upon whole microbial cells to selectively measure ethanol and glucose in mixtures. Amperometric sensors were constructed using immobilized cells of either Gluconobacter oxydans or Pichia methanolica. The bacterial cells of G. oxydans were sensitive to both substrates, while the yeast cells of P. methanolica oxidized only ethanol. Using chemometric principles of polynomial approximation, data from both of these sensors were processed to provide accurate estimates of glucose and ethanol over a concentration range of 1.0-8.0 mM (coefficients of determination, R(2)=0.99 for ethanol and 0.98 for glucose). When data were processed using an artificial neural network, glucose and ethanol were accurately estimated over a range of 1.0-10.0 mM (R(2)=0.99 for both substrates). The described methodology extends the sphere of utility for microbial sensors.

Selenium metabolism in Drosophila: selenoproteins, selenoprotein mRNA expression, fertility, and mortality

Selenocysteine is a rare amino acid in protein that is encoded by UGA with the requirement of a downstream mRNA stem-loop structure, the selenocysteine insertion sequence element. To detect selenoproteins in Drosophila, the entire genome was analyzed with a novel program that searches for selenocysteine insertion sequence elements, followed by selenoprotein gene signature analyses. This computational screen and subsequent metabolic labeling with (75)Se and characterization of selenoprotein mRNA expression resulted in identification of three selenoproteins: selenophosphate synthetase 2 and novel G-rich and BthD selenoproteins that had no homology to known proteins. To assess a biological role for these proteins, a simple chemically defined medium that supports growth of adult Drosophila and requires selenium supplementation for optimal survival was devised. Flies survived on this medium supplemented with 10(-8) to 10(-6) m selenium or on the commonly used yeast-based complete medium at about twice the rate as those on a medium without selenium or with >10(-6) m selenium. This effect correlated with changes in selenoprotein mRNA expression. The number of eggs laid by Drosophila was reduced approximately in half in the chemically defined medium compared with the same medium supplemented with selenium. The data provide evidence that dietary selenium deficiency shortens, while supplementation of the diet with selenium normalizes the Drosophila life span by a process that may involve the newly identified selenoproteins.

[Quantitative analysis of calibration dependence of biosensors]

Three-parameter Hill's equation, which is used in enzyme kinetics, was shown to applicable to calibration curves of both potentiometric (glucose, pesticides, urea, etc.) and amperometric (surfactants, biphenyl, etc.) biosensors. Possible causes of errors of analyte concentration measurements are discussed.

Detection of ethanol in a two-component glucose/ethanol mixture using a nonselective microbial sensor and a glucose enzyme electrode

Chemometric theory was applied to a microbial sensor for determinations of ethanol in the presence of glucose. Microbial sensors, consisting of Gluconobacter oxydans cells immobilized on Clark-type amperometric oxygen electrodes, exhibited good sensitivity but low selectivity toward ethanol and glucose. An Eksan-G commercial glucose analyzer was used as a second sensor for multivariate calibration and analyses. Microbial sensors exhibited nearly complete additivity for total glucose plus ethanol concentrations from 0.0 to 0.6 mM. Within this linear range, chemometric analyses provided estimates of ethanol concentration with measurement errors of less than 8%. Multivariate calibration thus is a promising approach to enhance the usefulness of microbial sensors.

[A method for a modified Billroth II-Braun gastric resection]

A modified method of resection of the stomach after Billroth-II was used in treatment of 26 patients with ulcer disease of the stomach and duodenum and with antral cancer of the stomach. During this procedure the following anastomoses were formed: frontal-colonic, frontal, superior, longitudinal-transversal and antiperistaltic side-to-side anastomosis with interintestinal anastomosis after Braun [correction of Brown] following the dissection of the Treitz ligament. One complication was noted--the incompetent duodenum stump. There were no lethal complications.

[The cluster method in conducting epidemiological research]

The Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) whose goal is to reduce morbidity and mortality by providing children with immunizations against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, poliomyelitis, measles, and tuberculosis continually faces the problem of documenting immunization coverage rates. Therefore the EPI seeks simple, effective, and inexpensive methods of evaluation which could be implemented in different countries. An example of such a method is a simplified cluster sampling technique of estimation of immunization coverage through the examination of 210 children, selected randomly as 30 groups of 7 children each. In 1978-1984 more than 1000 immunization coverage surveys were performed all over the world, mainly in developing countries. In a modified way this method is also used to collect data on morbidity and mortality of certain EPI target diseases as well as diarrhoeal diseases.