Targeting the ATF6-Mediated ER Stress Response and Autophagy Blocks Integrin-Driven Prostate Cancer Progression

Prostate cancer progression to the lethal metastatic castration-resistant phenotype (mCRPC) is driven by αv integrins and is associated with Golgi disorganization and activation of the ATF6 branch of unfolded protein response (UPR). Overexpression of integrins requires N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase-V (MGAT5)-mediated glycosylation and subsequent cluster formation with Galectin-3 (Gal-3). However, the mechanism underlying this altered glycosylation is missing. For the first time, using HALO analysis of IHC, we found a strong association of integrin αv and Gal-3 at the plasma membrane (PM) in primary prostate cancer and mCRPC samples. We discovered that MGAT5 activation is caused by Golgi fragmentation and mislocalization of its competitor, N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase-III, MGAT3, from Golgi to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). This was validated in an ethanol-induced model of ER stress, where alcohol treatment in androgen-refractory PC-3 and DU145 cells or alcohol consumption in patient with prostate cancer samples aggravates Golgi scattering, activates MGAT5, and enhances integrin expression at PM. This explains known link between alcohol consumption and prostate cancer mortality. ATF6 depletion significantly blocks UPR and reduces the number of Golgi fragments in both PC-3 and DU145 cells. Inhibition of autophagy by hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) restores compact Golgi, rescues MGAT3 intra-Golgi localization, blocks glycan modification via MGAT5, and abrogates delivery of Gal-3 to the cell surface. Importantly, the loss of Gal-3 leads to reduced integrins at PM and their accelerated internalization. ATF6 depletion and HCQ treatment synergistically decrease integrin αv and Gal-3 expression and temper orthotopic tumor growth and metastasis.

IMPLICATIONS

Combined ablation of ATF6 and autophagy can serve as new mCRPC therapeutic.

Anti-coronavirus vaccines will not accelerate the transition of humanity to a non-pandemic period, but the pandemic will take fewer victims

The vaccination rate worldwide has reached enormous proportions, and it is likely that at least 75% of the world's population will be vaccinated. The controversy is that, while people aged 65 and older suffer a significantly higher mortality rate from COVID-19, plans are being made to vaccinate young people under the age of 20. Equally thorny is the question of vaccinating people who already have antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, as well as B and T memory cells, because they contracted and survived the virus. The possible consequences of large-scale vaccination are difficult to predict, when some people do not have access to the vaccine at all and others have already received 3 doses of the vaccine. SARS-CoV-2 will circulate through the human population forever and continue to mutate, as viruses do. Therefore, in the coming years, the need to develop and use effective vaccines and medicines for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 will remain urgent in view of the high mortality rate from this disease. To date, three vaccine platforms have been most used: adenoviral vector, inactivated, and mRNA. There is some concern about the side effects that occur after vaccination. Whether modern anti-coronavirus vaccines can raise the safety threshold, only time will answer. It is obvious that the pandemic will end, but the virus will remain in the human population, leaving behind invaluable experience and tens of millions of victims. This article is based on search retrieves in research articles devoted to COVID-19 mainly published in 2020-2021 and examines the possible consequences of the worldwide vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 and suggests that, while anti-coronavirus vaccines will not magically transport humanity to a non-pandemic world, they may greatly reduce the number of victims of the pandemic and help us learn how to live with COVID-19.

Post-genomic platform for development of oligonucleotide vaccines against RNA viruses: diamond cuts diamond

The coronavirus pandemic has starkly demonstrated the need to create highly effective vaccines against various viral diseases. The emerging new platforms for vaccine creation (adenovirus vectors and mRNA vaccines) have shown their worth in the fight against the prevention of coronavirus infection. However, adenovirus vectors and mRNA vaccines have a serious disadvantage: as a rule, only the S protein of the coronavirus is presented as an antigen. This tactic for preventing infection allows the ever-mutating virus to escape quickly from the immunity protection provided by such vaccines. Today, viral genomic databases are well-developed, which makes it possible to create new vaccines on a fundamentally new post-genomic platform. In addition, the technology for the synthesis of nucleic acids is currently experiencing an upsurge in demand in various fields of molecular biology. The accumulated experience suggests that the unique genomic sequences of viruses can act as antigens that trigger powerful humoral and cellular immunity. To achieve this effect, the following conditions must be created: the structure of the nucleic acid must be single-stranded, have a permanent 3D nanostructure, and have a unique sequence absent in the vaccinated organism. Oligonucleotide vaccines are able to resist the rapidly changing genomic sequences of RNA viruses by using conserved regions of their genomes to generate a long-term immune response, acting according to the adage that a diamond cuts a diamond. In addition, oligonucleotide vaccines will not contribute to antibody-dependent enhanced infection, since the nucleic acid of the coronavirus is inside the viral particle. It is obvious that new epidemics and pandemics caused by RNA viruses will continue to arise periodically in the human population. The creation of new, safe, and effective platforms for the production of vaccines that can flexibly change and adapt to new subtypes of viruses is very urgent and at this moment should be considered as a strategically necessary task.

Immunohistochemical Expression of VDR in Myocardium: Postmortem Evaluation of COVID-19 Patients

Morphological data on heart damage and its mechanisms due to extremely severe course of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection are limited, as well as data on the correlation of damage and expression of vitamin D receptors (VDRs). In this study, we analyzed a series of myocardial samples obtained during postmortem autopsy of 48 critically ill patients with COVID-19 who died with SARS-CoV-2-associated pneumonia. The purpose of the study was to evaluate immunohistochemical VDR expression in the myocardium. The results showed the only minimal or no immunohistochemical expression of VDR in the nuclei of cardiomyocytes in most cases, along with the persisted strong expression in lymphoid cells. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first study and data provided were regarding myocardial VDR expression in COVID-19 patients. The results are of interest in terms of further study of the effects of ligand-associated VDR activation on the cardiovascular system.

Prevalence of causative agents of transmissive tick-borned ricketsious in the Crimean peninsula

The paper presents the results of a study of the prevalence of Ixodid ticks - potential carriers of tick-borne rickettsiosis pathogens. Ectoparasites were collected in various natural and climatic zones of the Crimean Peninsula within the year 2016-2018. As a result of screening with the help of real-time PCR analysis (PCR-RT), a genetic marker (a section of the gltA gene) of the rickettsia group of tick-borne spotted fever was detected in ticks. The most common DNA marker of rickettsia was found in ticks in the eastern regions of the steppe zone - 50,6 %, in the north-western part of the steppe zone this value was 12,0 %. The least amount of rickettsia target DNA was detected in ticks collected in the mountain forest and south bank zones - 4,5 %. As a result of sequencing of positive DNA samples from fragments of the gltA, ompA, ompB, and sca4 genes, the species composition of rickettsias was established. The DNA of 8 species of rickettsia was identified: Circulation of three R. conorii, R. massiliae, R. sibirica subsp. mongolotimonae, R. slovaca, R. aeschlimannii, R. monacensis, R. helvetica, R. raoultii. R. massiliae, R. slovaca, and R. helvetica were established in the Crimean Peninsula for the first time. The peculiarities of the geographical distribution of the identified rickettsia species were determined, which was due to the spread of mites-carriers of pathogens. The revealed diversity of rickettsia species and their vectors, due to the isolation of the areas of the main feeding animals and the established routes of migratory birds, suggests the circulation of other rickettsia species on the territory of the Crimean Peninsula. The obtained results suggest that the diseases of tick-borne rickettsiosis in the Crimean Peninsula can be caused not only by R. conorii, as previously thought, but also by other types of rickettsii.

Clinical significance of gene polymorphisms for hereditary predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer (review of literature)

The review presents classical and modern views on the molecular genetic causes underlying hereditary predisposition to breast and ovarian cancer. A computerized literature search was carried out in the electronic databases MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, published between January 1994 and May 2021, using the keywords: «hereditary breast and ovarian cancer», «BRCA» and «DNA repair». Current views on the role of germline mutations in genes for susceptibility to breast cancer (BC): BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, TP53, CHEK2, PTEN, ATM, and PPM1D are presented. The role of a complex of genes involved in homologous DNA repair and causing other hereditary oncological diseases is considered. The role of the loss of heterozygosity in these genes, which increases the level of chromosomal instability and leads to an increased risk of malignant transformation, is considered. Germinal mutations in the genes under consideration in 90% of clinical cases are the cause of initiation of tissue malignancy and greatly increase the risk of developing hereditary breast cancer and OC. The review emphasizes the complex nature of pathogenesis and significant polymorphism of genetic targets for hereditary breast cancer and OC. It is concluded that it is necessary to use NGS panels for complex screening of genes of hereditary susceptibility to these oncological diseases. The review provides data on the clinical significance of each group of genes of hereditary predisposition in the pathogenesis of breast cancer and OC, and also demonstrates the possible role of methylation of the promoter regions of genes and the state of mitochondrial DNA in the development of these pathologies. The purpose of this review was to broaden the horizons of specialists in the field of oncology and clinical diagnostics in the context of the rapidly expanding spectrum of molecular genetic markers of hereditary breast and ovarian cancers.

Top Three Strategies of ss(+)RNA Plant Viruses: Great Opportunists and Ecosystem Tuners with a Small Genome

ss(+)RNA viruses represent the dominant group of plant viruses. They owe their evolutionary superiority to the large number of mutations that occur during replication, courtesy of RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Natural selection rewards successful viral subtypes, whose effective tuning of the ecosystem regulates the interactions between its participants. Thus, ss(+)RNA viruses act as shuttles for the functionally important genes of the participants in symbiotic relationships within the ecosystem, of which the most common ecological triad is “plant–virus–insect”. Due to their short life cycle and large number of offspring, RNA viruses act as skillful tuners of the ecosystem, which benefits both viruses and the system as a whole. A fundamental understanding of this aspect of the role played by viruses in the ecosystem makes it possible to apply this knowledge to the creation of DNA insecticides. In fact, since the genes that viruses are involved in transferring are functionally important for both insects and plants, silencing these genes (for example, in insects) can be used to regulate the pest population. RNA viruses are increasingly treated not as micropathogens but as necessary regulators of ecosystem balance.

Predictive potential of macrophage population phenotyping in malignization of H. pylori-associated chronic gastritis

Tumor-associated macrophages are able to regulate the tumor cell proliferation and to affect the tumor cell dissemination. The study was aimed to assess the predictive potential of the macrophage population immunohistochemical phenotyping in early malignization of H. pylori-associated chronic gastritis. Gastic biopsy samples of male and female patients aged 48 ± 7.2 infected with Helicobacter pylori were used as the research material. The patients were divided into three groups: non-atrophic chronic gastritis (NACG, n = 10), atrophic chronic gastritis (ACG, n = 10), G1/G2 gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC, n = 10). The macrophage population was visualized using the CD68 pan-macrophage marker and the type 2 monocyte/macrophage marker CD163. Intensity of neoangiogenesis was defined using the CD31 endothelial marker by assessing the total cross sectional area of blood vessels. It was found that chronic gastritis was accompanied by the dynamic increase in the size of the general macrophage population with the progression of atrophic and metaplastic processes. According to immunohistochemical study of biopsies obtained from patients with NCG, the CD163 : CD68 ratio was 0.67 ± 0.02, and the total cross sectional area of blood vessels was 3590.92 ± 356.27 µm2. Atrophic gastritis and adenocarcinoma were characterized by vector redistribution of monocytes/macrophages into the 2nd functional phenotype. The CD163 : CD68 expression index in the group with ACG was 0.81 ± 0.04, and in the group with GAC it was 0.88 ± 0.03. Microvascular area was significantly increased in the groups with ACG and GAC, which reflected tumor neoangiogenesis intensification under the influence of М2 monocytes/macrophages. The increased expression of CD163 can serve as a predictor of chronic gastritis malignization together with evaluation of the glandular epithelium atrophy and metaplasia degree.

The non-canonical mechanism of ER stress-mediated progression of prostate cancer

Background

The development of persistent endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress is one of the cornerstones of prostate carcinogenesis; however, the mechanism is missing. Also, alcohol is a physiological ER stress inducer, and the link between alcoholism and progression of prostate cancer (PCa) is well documented but not well characterized. According to the canonical model, the mediator of ER stress, ATF6, is cleaved sequentially in the Golgi by S1P and S2P proteases; thereafter, the genes responsible for unfolded protein response (UPR) undergo transactivation.

Methods

Cell lines used were non-malignant prostate epithelial RWPE-1 cells, androgen-responsive LNCaP, and 22RV1 cells, as well as androgen-refractory PC-3 cells. We also utilized PCa tissue sections from patients with different Gleason scores and alcohol consumption backgrounds. Several sophisticated approaches were employed, including Structured illumination superresolution microscopy, Proximity ligation assay, Atomic force microscopy, and Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

Results

Herein, we identified the trans-Golgi matrix dimeric protein GCC185 as a Golgi retention partner for both S1P and S2P, and in cells lacking GCC185, these enzymes lose intra-Golgi situation. Progression of prostate cancer (PCa) is associated with overproduction of S1P and S2P but monomerization of GCC185 and its downregulation. Utilizing different ER stress models, including ethanol administration, we found that PCa cells employ an elegant mechanism that auto-activates ER stress by fragmentation of Golgi, translocation of S1P and S2P from Golgi to ER, followed by intra-ER cleavage of ATF6, accelerated UPR, and cell proliferation. The segregation of S1P and S2P from Golgi and activation of ATF6 are positively correlated with androgen receptor signaling, different disease stages, and alcohol consumption. Finally, depletion of ATF6 significantly retarded the growth of xenograft prostate tumors and blocks production of pro-metastatic metabolites.

Conclusions

We found that progression of PCa associates with translocation of S1P and S2P proteases to the ER and subsequent ATF6 cleavage. This obviates the need for ATF6 transport to the Golgi and enhances UPR and cell proliferation. Thus, we provide the novel mechanistic model of ATF6 activation and ER stress implication in the progression of PCa, suggesting ATF6 is a novel promising target for prostate cancer therapy.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13046-021-02066-7.

Anti-Rheumatic Effect of Antisense Oligonucleotide Cytos-11 Targeting TNF-α Expression

The urgency of the search for inexpensive and effective drugs with localized action for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis continues unabated. In this study, for the first time we investigated the Cytos-11 antisense oligonucleotide suppression of TNF-α gene expression in a rat model of rheumatoid arthritis induced by complete Freund’s adjuvant. Cytos-11 has been shown to effectively reduce peripheral blood concentrations of TNF-α, reduce joint inflammation, and reduce pannus development. The results achieved following treatment with the antisense oligonucleotide Cytos-11 were similar to those of adalimumab (Humira^®); they also compared favorably with those results, which provides evidence of the promise of drugs based on antisense technologies in the treatment of this disease.

DNA insecticide developed from the Lymantria dispar 5.8S ribosomal RNA gene provides a novel biotechnology for plant protection

Having observed how botanicals and other natural compounds are used by nature to control pests in the environment, we began investigating natural polymers, DNA and RNA, as promising tools for insect pest management. Over the last decade, unmodified short antisense DNA oligonucleotides have shown a clear potential for use as insecticides. Our research has concentrated mainly on Lymantria dispar larvae using an antisense oligoRING sequence from its inhibitor-of-apoptosis gene. In this article, we propose a novel biotechnology to protect plants from insect pests using DNA insecticide with improved insecticidal activity based on a new antisense oligoRIBO-11 sequence from the 5.8S ribosomal RNA gene. This investigational oligoRIBO-11 insecticide causes higher mortality among both L. dispar larvae grown in the lab and those collected from the forest; in addition, it is more affordable and faster acting, which makes it a prospective candidate for use in the development of a ready-to-use preparation.

A Half-Century History of Applications of Antisense Oligonucleotides in Medicine, Agriculture and Forestry: We Should Continue the Journey

Antisense oligonucleotides (ASO), short single-stranded polymers based on DNA or RNA chemistries and synthesized in vitro, regulate gene expression by binding in a sequence-specific manner to an RNA target. The functional activity and selectivity in the action of ASOs largely depends on the combination of nitrogenous bases in a target sequence. This simple and natural property of nucleic acids provides an attractive route by which scientists can create different ASO-based techniques. Over the last 50 years, planned and realized applications in the field of antisense and nucleic acid nanotechnologies have produced astonishing results and posed new challenges for further developments, exemplifying the essence of the post-genomic era. Today the majority of ASOs are chemically modified and/or incorporated within nanoparticles to enhance their stability and cellular uptake. This review critically analyzes some successful cases using the antisense approach in medicine to address severe diseases, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy, and suggests some prospective directions for future research. We also examine in detail the elaboration of unmodified insect-specific DNA insecticides and RNA preparations in the areas of agriculture and forestry, a relatively new branch of ASO that allows circumvention of the use of non-selective chemical insecticides. When considering the variety of successful ASO modifications with an efficient signal-to-noise ratio of action, coupled with the affordability of in vitro oligonucleotide synthesis and post-synthesis procedures, we predict that the next half-century will produce a fruitful yield of tools created from effective ASO-based end products.

[Changes of Nonspecific Proteinases and Proinflammatory Cytokines in the Clinical Course of Acute Myocardial Infarction of Various Severity]

PURPOSE

to study changes of serum levels of nonspecific proteinases, their inhibitors, and proinflammatory cytokines during short term observation of patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included in this prospective short-term study 82 patients (27 with uncomplicated non-Q wave MI, 30 with Q-MI complicated by Killip class I-II acute left ventricular failure [ALVF], 17 with Q-MI complicated by Killip class III-IV ALVF, and 8 non-survivors due to development of cardiogenic shock) and 12 healthy controls. Serum levels of interleukin (IL) - 1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α were measured by ELISA. Elastaselike (ELA) and trypsin-like (TLA) activities as well as characteristics of proteinase inhibitors (antitrypsin activity and acid-stable inhibitors) were also determined. Blood samples were taken at hospital admission within 24 hours after onset of symptoms. The GUSTO Score at admission was used for risk stratification.

RESULTS

All cytokines levels were significantly elevated in MI patients in comparison to controls. Mean concentrations of IL-6 and TNF-α at baseline were higher among patients with MI complicated by ALVF than in the group with uncomplicated MI (27.45 vs 16.04 pikogram / mL, р.

THE IMPACT OF ALCOHOL ON PRO-METASTATIC N-GLYCOSYLATION IN PROSTATE CANCER

Chronic alcohol abuse and alcoholism are considered risk factors for prostate cancer (PCa) progression, but the mechanism is unknown. Previously, we found that: (1) fragmentation of the Golgi complex correlates with the progression of PCa; (2) ethanol (EtOH) induces Golgi disorganization, which, in turn, alters intra-Golgi localization of some Golgi proteins. Also, progression of the prostate tumor is associated with activation of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase-V (MGAT5)-mediated N-glycosylation of pro-metastatic proteins, including matriptase and integrins, followed by their enhanced retention at the cell surface. Here, using high-resolution microscopy, we found that alcohol effect on Golgi in low passage androgen-responsive LNCaP cells mimic the fragmented Golgi phenotype of androgen-refractory high passage LNCaP and PC-3 cells. Next, we detected that transition to androgen unresponsiveness is accompanied by downregulation of N-acetylglucosaminyltransferase-III (MGAT3), the enzyme that competes with MGAT5 for anti-metastatic N-glycan branching. Moreover, in low passage LNCaP cells, alcohol-induced Golgi fragmentation induced translocation of MGAT3 from the Golgi to the cytoplasm, while intra-Golgi localization of MGAT5 appeared unaffected. Then, the relationship between Golgi morphology, MGAT3 intracellular position, and clinicopathologic features was assessed in human PCa patient specimens with and without a history of alcohol dependence. We revealed that within the same clinical stage, the level of Golgi disorganization and the cytoplasmic shift of MGAT3 was more prominent in patients consuming alcohol. In vitro studies suggest that EtOH-induced downregulation of MGAT3 correlates with activation of MGAT5-mediated glycosylation and overexpression of both matriptase and integrins. In sum, we provide a novel insight into the alcohol-mediated tumor promotion.

Molecular Alliance of Lymantria dispar Multiple Nucleopolyhedrovirus and a Short Unmodified Antisense Oligonucleotide of Its Anti-Apoptotic IAP-3 Gene: A Novel Approach for Gypsy Moth Control

Baculovirus IAP (inhibitor-of-apoptosis) genes originated by capture of host genes. Unmodified short antisense DNA oligonucleotides (oligoDNAs) from baculovirus IAP genes can down-regulate specific gene expression profiles in both baculovirus-free and baculovirus-infected insects. In this study, gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar) larvae infected with multiple nucleopolyhedrovirus (LdMNPV), and LdMNPV-free larvae, were treated with oligoDNA antisense to the RING (really interesting new gene) domain of the LdMNPV IAP-3 gene. The results with respect to insect mortality, biomass accumulation, histological studies, RT-PCR, and analysis of DNA apoptotic fragmentation suggest that oligoRING induced increased apoptotic processes in both LdMNPV-free and LdMNPV-infected insect cells, but were more pronounced in the latter. These data open up possibilities for promising new routes of insect pest control using antisense phosphodiester DNA oligonucleotides.

[Efficiency of polyphenol-rich grape products for the prevention of metabolic disorders in the experiment]

The article presents the results of study of the effect of polyphenol-rich materials obtained from grapes on the clinical symptoms, activity of non-specific proteases, and parameters of lipid peroxidation (LPO) of blood of rats with fructose model of metabolic syndrome (MS). White male rats (n=54, with initial body weight of 190-210 g) were randomly divided into five groups: control and 4 experimental groups. Body weight, circumference of the abdomen, blood serum level of glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides and high density (HDL) lipoproteins were monitored in all animals in dynamics. Also non-specific proteases and their inhibitors were evaluated in rat blood by enzymatic methods, lipid peroxidation profile (malondialdehyde and caeruloplasmin blood serum level, superoxide dismutase blood activity) - by spectrophotometric methods. Modeling of the MS (10% fructose in drinking water) within 8 weeks resulted in statistically significant increase in body mass, abdominal adipose tissue, the activity of elastase-like (ELA) and trypsin-like (TLA) proteinases (20 and 18% respectively), the level of secondary products of LPO (50%), and decrease in activity of superoxide dismutase (15%) compared with the parameters of intact animals. The use of polyphenol-rich materials obtained from grapes with a total content of 1; 1,1 and 4 mg of phenolic compounds (in 0.05 ml) at MS for 4 weeks contributed regression the key clinical signs of MS: significant decrease of glucose and triglyceride levels against the background of increasing the HDL cholesterol were observed. The polyphenol-rich materials obtained from grapes influenced positively on the proteolytic profile (decreased TLA and ELA by 20% at the maximum dosage), contributed to the increase of the level of acid-stable protease inhibitors (by 21%), and reduced the amount of secondary products of LPO (by 34%). The dose-dependent effect of the amount of polyphenol components contained in food concentrates has been revealed.

PATHOMORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES OF THE SKELETAL MUSCLES UNDER FORMATION OF THE REPERFUSION SYNDROME

Analysis of pathomorphological changes which taking place in muscle tissue after reperfusion of previously ischemic rats limbs allowed to identify three phases of the experimental reperfusion syndrome (RS): the first or ischemic, the second or initial reperfusional, the third or late reperfusional. Morphological changes of the skeletal muscles in the first stage are characterized by presence of dystrophic-necrotic processes and reflect the compensatory-adaptive reaction of the organism to hypoxia. In the third stage one can see the progress of morphological damages, which develop during the ischemic period against a background of exhaustion of proteinase inhibitors. This indicates the intensity of endogenous intoxication of the organism with the products of disturbed metabolism and determines the irreversibility of destructive processes and probability of multiple organ failure. Proceeding from the character of the pathomorphological changes and the state of proteinase-inhibitor system one can suppose, that the optimal time for medical measures is the first stage and the first hours of the second stage (to increase the ischemic tolerance of the skeletal muscles). Taking into account the direct relation between the intensity of pathomorphological injuries and the imbalance of proteinase-inhibitor system, the usage of proteinase-inhibiting medicines for correction of RS-development and reduction of the destructive changes during first and second stages is substantiated. When reperfusion syndrome lasts for a long time, medical measures become ineffective due to the high degree of pathological changes.

Changes of humoral anti-endotoxin immunity and low-intensity inflammation in diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2

THE PURPOSE

The purpose. Investigate the levels of different classes serum anti-endotoxin antibodies in patients with diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2 and to hold the cluster analysis of the relationship between the individual levels of such antibodies and the concentration of C-reactive protein in the blood.

METHODS

We examined 51 patients with diabetes mellitus type 1 and 60 patients with diabetes mellitus type 2. The diagnosis of diabetes mellitus type 1 or type 2 has been delivered in accordance with the criteria of the World Health Organization. The control group included 49 healthy people who have not a history of any chronic disease, and the clinical manifestations of acute diseases were absent at the time of the survey. By sex and age, the control group of healthy people matched to a group of patients with diabetes type 1 and type 2. The concentration of C-reactive protein in the blood and the levels of serum anti-endotoxin antibodies of different classes (A, M and G) was determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

Using cluster analysis revealed that 40.8% of patients with type 1 diabetes increased concentration of C-reactive protein in the blood is associated with a significant reduction of levels of serum anti-endotoxin antibodies classes A, M and G. In 56.7% of patients with type 2 diabetes the high concentration of C-reactive protein in the blood levels of serum anti-endotoxin antibody classes A and M were not significantly different from the normal values, but the levels of serum anti-endotoxin antibodies of class G were significantly increased. The activation of inflammation with a further increase of C-reactive protein in the blood of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus accompanied by a significant increase in levels of serum anti-endotoxin antibodies classes A and G, and also a tendency to reduce of levels anti-endotoxin antibodies class M.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest about the relationship between low-intensity inflammation and immune response to enterobacterial endotoxins in patients with diabetes mellitus type 1 and 2.

Endometrial hyperplasia-related inflammation: its role in the development and progression of endometrial hyperplasia

BACKGROUND

Endometrial hyperplasia (EH) is one of the most common gynecologic diseases in the world. Different statistical categories implicate an imbalance of estrogens and progestogens in the etiology of this disease. We propose that inflammation also plays a key role in the progression of endometrial hyperplasia.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to evaluate the role of inflammation in the transformation and progression of endometrial hyperplasia, using local inflammatory cytokines and nonspecific protease levels, CD 45(+) expression, and histological examination.

DESIGN

The study included 107 patients (ages 29-49 years) with different forms of endometrial hyperplasia. The enrolled patients were randomized into one of the four groups: normal endometrium (n = 18) as the control group, simple hyperplasia (n = 41), complex hyperplasia without atypia (n = 36), complex atypical hyperplasia or endometrioid adenocarcinoma (n = 12).

METHODS

The following were evaluated for patients with different forms of EH: steroid hormone levels in blood serum and uterine flushings, immunohistochemical estrogen and progesterone receptor expression patterns in the endometrial tissue, CD 45(+) (common leukocyte antigen) expression, the levels of the cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, and nonspecific proteases and their inhibitors.

RESULTS

The level of estradiol in blood serum and especially in uterine flushings was elevated dramatically in simple EH as compared to that of controls, but there was no significant difference between estradiol levels among the different forms of EH. The estimation of CD 45(+), the levels of the cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, and the activity of proteases (elastase-like and trypsin-like activities) and their inhibitors showed that levels of nonspecific inflammatory markers increase with EH progression.

CONCLUSIONS

We suggest that the initial responsibility for the development of simple endometrial hyperplasia belongs to systemic hyperestrogenemia and, in particular, local hyperestrogenia, but that the role of inflammatory processes increases in complex and atypical EH. Development of inflammatory changes in endometrial hyperplasia may be considered as a factor in the promotion and progression of pathology, as well as an attributed risk factor for malignancy in endometrial hyperplasia. In this study, we have established a role for CD 45(+) expression cells, non-specific proteases, and the inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in endometrial hyperplasia-related inflammation.

Experimental induction of reparative morphogenesis and adaptive reserves in the ischemic myocardium using multipotent mesenchymal bone marrow-derived stem cells

INTRODUCTION

Current experimental research has proven the efficacy of transplantation bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) in the treatment of myocardial infarction (MI). The one of the main purposes of research was to evaluate the comparative data of the MSC transplantation with (5-azacytidine) and without commitment and to assess the post transplantation effects.

METHODS

The efficiency of intravenous cardiomyoplasty by infusion of MSC was evaluated in female Wistar-Kyoto rats with myocardial infarction model using echocardiography, morphological study, morphometry, immunohistostaining, data from in situ hybridization, and by measurement of blood serum levels of nitric oxide, endothelin-1, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2).

RESULTS

The transplanted MSC were detected in all layers of the myocardium; MCS actively participate in the formation of blood vessels and connective tissue in the scar zone. There was no observable differentiation of male MSC into cardiomyocytes in female rats with MI. However, MSC transplantation leads to significant improvement in vascularization in the area of MI, elevation blood serum levels of nitric oxide, VEGF, and FGF2. No significant differences were identified morphologically between the two groups of animals after transplantation with unmodified MSC or commited MSC (5-azaC).

CONCLUSION

Intravenous transplantation of MSC without commitment in rats with MI improves the contractile function of the heart, the morphology of the myocardium, and should be recommended for further clinical investigation as an alternative approach to deal with heart diseases.

[The antioxidant activity of the products of processing of red grape of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Saperavi]

Experimental data on the antioxidant activity of grape juice, grape concentrates and wine from grapes of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Saperavi from Crimea and Krasnodar regions was presented. Flavonoids are presented in the form of glycosides of such anthocyanins as delphinidin, malvidin, cyanidin, petunidin, peonidin and also by quercetin and its glycoside, (+)-D-catechin and (-)-epicatechin. Oligomeric procyanidins, which are condensed catechol units (2-6) soluble in water, are presented in significant amounts, and polymeric procyanidins with the amount catechin units greater than 7, insoluble in water, constituted the bulk of polyphenols od wine and concentrates from red grapes (no juice). Among non-flavonoid polyphenols hydroxybenzoic (gallic, syringic) and hydroxycinnamic (caftaric, cautaric) acids are identified, the relative content of which in the amount of polyphenols in the juice is maximum, and minimum is in concentrates. It was found that antioxidant activity for all products in standard Trolox method can be estimated by the equation: Y = 0.53627+0.1395X+0.080439X2-0.00064708X3, with a correlation coefficient r = 0.9952; where: Y--antioxidant activity, g/dm3 by Trolox method; X--mass concentration of phenolic substances on the Folin-Ciocalteu, g/dm3. The equation is valid for Y = 0.76-196.22; X = 1.0-82.67. The results of biological testing of wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Saperavi and polyphenol concentrates from grape on the biological model of bioluminescent bacteria Photobacterium leiognathi Sh1 demonstrated the applicability of bioassay to assess the antioxidant activity, which correlates well with the polyphenols content and antioxidant activity by trolox method.

Joint Intratracheal Surfactant-Antibacterial Therapy in Experimental Pseudomonas-Induced Pneumonia

BACKGROUND

The application of an exogenous pulmonary surfactant as a carrier for intratracheally administered antimicrobials represents a promising therapeutic modality that is still on its way to clinical practice. Owing to its ability to decrease surface tension, exogenous surfactant may enhance delivery of antibiotics into foci of pulmonary infection, thus increasing efficiency and safety of topical antimicrobial therapy in bacterial lung diseases.

OBJECTIVES

To assess potential interactions between exogenous surfactant and amikacin in vitro, and to study the effects of their joint intratracheal instillation in rats with acute pneumonia caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

METHODS

The antibacterial and surface-active properties of amikacin (Amicil, Kievmedpreparat, Ukraine), porcine pulmonary surfactant (Suzacrin, Docpharm, Ukraine), and their combination were studied in vitro using standard microbiologic procedures and modified Pattle method (estimation of bubble diameter). Similar methods were utilized to study bacterial contamination of lungs and blood, and to assess the surface activity of bronchoalveolar wash (BAW) in 119 Wistar rats, including infected (intratracheal introduction of P. aeruginosa ATCC 27853) and noninfected animals. Histopathologic findings, differential leukocyte counts, and oxygenation parameters were recorded.

RESULTS

Antibacterial and surface-active properties of the surfactant and amikacin remained unimpaired in vitro. In rats anti-pseudomonal and anti-inflammatory effects of the surfactant-amikacin mixture were more pronounced (p<0.05) than effects of pure amikacin as evidenced by recorded rates of bacterial growth and granulocytic response. The combined therapy considerably restricted tissue damage and mitigated reduction of BAW surface activity.

CONCLUSION

The advantages of the joint surfactant-amikacin therapy of Pseudomonas-induced pneumonia may suggest further clinical trials.

[Effect of proteinase inhibitors on efficiency of suppression of proteolytic activation in pneumonia]

We studied the influence of a way of introduction proteinase inhibitors on efficiency of suppression of proteolysis activation during pneumonia. Comparative study of efficiency of proteases inhibition in experimental pneumonia has shown higher efficacy of local introduction of drugs. Intravenous and intraperitoneal introduction of proteinase inhibitors exhibited inhibitory effect of a smaller degree on local and systemic proteases activation, did not decrease an acute phase of response of alpha-1-protease inhibitor in comparison with endotracheal instillation of Contrycal and Ingiprol. The study has established that endotracheal introduction of proteinase inhibitors is the most effective for correction of the proteinase-inhibitor balance. It also helps to promote the activity proteinase-inhibitor, suppresses elastolytic activity, decreases cellular infiltration, reduces the concentration of proteins in bronco-alveolar lavage fluid that is connected with address delivery of drugs to the target organ creating a maximal concentration of drugs in affected area.

[Elastolytic activity of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in acute lung inflammatory injury]

Elastolytic activity in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in the lung with acute inflammatory injury and properties of different proteinase inhibitors for its correction was established. It was determined, that 4/5 of elastolytic activities are submitted to neutrophile serine proteinase (EC 3.4.21.37) and 1/5 of elastolytic activities - metalloenzymes macrophages origin (EC 3.4.24.65). Inhibition of elastase-like activity with the use of three proteinase inhibitors: contrycal, ingiprol and thermo- and acid-stable proteinase inhibitor from rabbit blood showed more intensive ability of thermo- and acid-stable proteinase inhibitor to inhibit pancreatic elastase and pull of neutrophil and macrophage elastase. Preventive use and treatment of proteinase inhibitors effectively suppressed activation of proteinases in the acute lung inflammatory injury.

Recognition of medical universities in Ukraine

The paper presents a general characteristic of the organization of teaching of medicine to foreign students at the Crimean State Medical University. The Crimea State Medical University is a state higher educational establishment having the 4th highest level of state accreditation. The University prepares junior specialists and bachelors in specialties such as nursing, orthopedic dentistry, pharmacy and doctors in general medicine, dentistry and clinical pharmacy. At present there are 1,500 foreign students from 34 countries studying at the university, with more than half are students from Malaysia. The quality of education at CSMU is evaluated by the State accreditation commission an authorized central executive power in the field of education and science. Textbooks and manuals written in English, which have passed expert evaluation at a state level and approved by the Ministry of Public Health of Ukraine, was given permission to be used by all medical schools of the country.

[Experimental approach to the prophylaxis and treatment of acute lung injury syndrome with proteinase inhibitors and corvitin]

The results of a combined study of the proteolysis on a model of post-ischemic toxemia in rats showed a decrease in antiproteinase potential and an activation of proteolysis. The activation of proteolysis and inhibition of antiproteinases was observed not only in the blood, but also in the bronchoalveolar secretion. Those changes were accompanied with the changes in the morphological structure of the lungs. The data obtained have shown a high effectiveness of proteinase inhibitor (contrical) and an antioxidant of flavonoid group (corvetine). Those drugs decreased the morphological changes in the lungs and prevented the development of imbalance in proteinase-inhibitor system. The prophylactic effect was more considerable when both drugs were used in a combined way.

[Changes in the local proteinase-inhibitor system in children with chronic erosive gastritis]

In 26 children presenting with chronic erosive gastritis, an unspecific proteinase-inhibitor potential was identified in the basal portion of the gastric juice in the period of exacerbation and incomplete remission. Revealed in the gastric content in the period of exacerbation was augmentation of the activity of elastase- and tripsinlike proteinases. In the period of remission, the indices have been shown to be lower but insignificantly, remaining significantly higher compared to those indices in the control group. There was a decrease in the antiproteinase potential in the period of exacerbation getting even more lowered during the period of incomplete remission. The findings secured suggest to us a manifest imbalance in the local proteinase-inhibitor system. A conclusion has been reached that exhaustion of the local inhibitor potential and ensuing high activity of unspecific proteinases result in destructive changes in the gastric mucosa, thus, having pathogenetic significance in the development of chronic inflammatory-and-destructive diseases.

[Micromethod of measurement of blood alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor and alpha 2-macroglobulin]

A micromethod for simultaneous measurements of alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor and alpha 2-macroglobulin in human blood serum and plasma is suggested. The method is time-and reagent saving, accurate, and easily reproducible. It can be used to investigate other biological material and fluids, such as bronchial and vaginal lavage fluid, tissue homogenates, etc.

[Use of thermo- and acid-stable proteinase inhibitor to suppress proteolytic activation in pulmonary inflammation]

A comparative study of thermo-acid stable proteinase inhibitor from rabbit serum and commercial drug contrykal was made on rats and in vitro experiments. Both inhibitors in equal doses effectively suppress proteolytic activity during initiation of lung inflammation. It was shown that the thermo-acid stable inhibitor possesses higher than contrykal, antielastase activity. A high effect of the acid stable inhibitors in the treatment of lung disease is suggested.

[The effect of physical fitness training with winter seawater swimming on the functional status of the body]

Shifts in thermoregulation of the body leading to increased resistance to diseases were recorded in persons active in winter swimming in sea water. The shifts also involved cardiorespiratory function producing occasional unwanted effects in persons with cardiovascular diseases.

[General and local reactions in the proteolytic system during the development of experimental pneumonia]

Proteolytic enzymes and their inhibitors were studied in the serum and bronchoalveolar lavage of rats with acute and chronic experimental pulmonary inflammation. An increase in the inhibitory potential of the blood serum and bronchoalveolar lavage at the acute stage of inflammation was shown. At the chronic stage of pulmonary inflammation the level of the main inhibitors decreased to normal or zero values in the blood and lavage fluid, respectively. It was observed that alpha 1-proteinase inhibitor serum concentration correlated with the level of bronchoalveolar antitrypsin.