A cohort-based study of host gene expression: tumor suppressor and innate immune/inflammatory pathways associated with the HIV reservoir size

The major barrier to an HIV cure is the HIV reservoir: latently-infected cells that persist despite effective antiretroviral therapy (ART). There have been few cohort-based studies evaluating host genomic or transcriptomic predictors of the HIV reservoir. We performed host RNA sequencing and HIV reservoir quantification (total DNA [tDNA], unspliced RNA [usRNA], intact DNA) from peripheral CD4+ T cells from 191 ART-suppressed people with HIV (PWH). After adjusting for nadir CD4+ count, timing of ART initiation, and genetic ancestry, we identified two host genes for which higher expression was significantly associated with smaller total DNA viral reservoir size, P3H3 and NBL1, both known tumor suppressor genes. We then identified 17 host genes for which lower expression was associated with higher residual transcription (HIV usRNA). These included novel associations with membrane channel (KCNJ2, GJB2), inflammasome (IL1A, CSF3, TNFAIP5, TNFAIP6, TNFAIP9, CXCL3, CXCL10), and innate immunity (TLR7) genes (FDR-adjusted q<0.05). Gene set enrichment analyses further identified significant associations of HIV usRNA with TLR4/microbial translocation (q = 0.006), IL-1/NRLP3 inflammasome (q = 0.008), and IL-10 (q = 0.037) signaling. Protein validation assays using ELISA and multiplex cytokine assays supported these observed inverse host gene correlations, with P3H3, IL-10, and TNF-α protein associations achieving statistical significance (p<0.05). Plasma IL-10 was also significantly inversely associated with HIV DNA (p = 0.016). HIV intact DNA was not associated with differential host gene expression, although this may have been due to a large number of undetectable values in our study. To our knowledge, this is the largest host transcriptomic study of the HIV reservoir. Our findings suggest that host gene expression may vary in response to the transcriptionally active reservoir and that changes in cellular proliferation genes may influence the size of the HIV reservoir. These findings add important data to the limited host genetic HIV reservoir studies to date.

Differences in expression of tumor suppressor, innate immune, inflammasome, and potassium/gap junction channel host genes significantly predict viral reservoir size during treated HIV infection

The major barrier to an HIV cure is the persistence of infected cells that evade host immune surveillance despite effective antiretroviral therapy (ART). Most prior host genetic HIV studies have focused on identifying DNA polymorphisms (e.g., CCR5Δ32 , MHC class I alleles) associated with viral load among untreated "elite controllers" (~1% of HIV+ individuals who are able to control virus without ART). However, there have been few studies evaluating host genetic predictors of viral control for the majority of people living with HIV (PLWH) on ART. We performed host RNA sequencing and HIV reservoir quantification (total DNA, unspliced RNA, intact DNA) from peripheral CD4+ T cells from 191 HIV+ ART-suppressed non-controllers. Multivariate models included covariates for timing of ART initiation, nadir CD4+ count, age, sex, and ancestry. Lower HIV total DNA (an estimate of the total reservoir) was associated with upregulation of tumor suppressor genes NBL1 (q=0.012) and P3H3 (q=0.012). Higher HIV unspliced RNA (an estimate of residual HIV transcription) was associated with downregulation of several host genes involving inflammasome ( IL1A, CSF3, TNFAIP5, TNFAIP6, TNFAIP9 , CXCL3, CXCL10 ) and innate immune ( TLR7 ) signaling, as well as novel associations with potassium ( KCNJ2 ) and gap junction ( GJB2 ) channels, all q<0.05. Gene set enrichment analyses identified significant associations with TLR4/microbial translocation (q=0.006), IL-1β/NRLP3 inflammasome (q=0.008), and IL-10 (q=0.037) signaling. HIV intact DNA (an estimate of the "replication-competent" reservoir) demonstrated trends with thrombin degradation ( PLGLB1 ) and glucose metabolism ( AGL ) genes, but data were (HIV intact DNA detected in only 42% of participants). Our findings demonstrate that among treated PLWH, that inflammation, innate immune responses, bacterial translocation, and tumor suppression/cell proliferation host signaling play a key role in the maintenance of the HIV reservoir during ART. Further data are needed to validate these findings, including functional genomic studies, and expanded epidemiologic studies in female, non-European cohorts.

Author Summary

Although lifelong HIV antiretroviral therapy (ART) suppresses virus, the major barrier to an HIV cure is the persistence of infected cells that evade host immune surveillance despite effective ART, "the HIV reservoir." HIV eradication strategies have focused on eliminating residual virus to allow for HIV remission, but HIV cure trials to date have thus far failed to show a clinically meaningful reduction in the HIV reservoir. There is an urgent need for a better understanding of the host-viral dynamics during ART suppression to identify potential novel therapeutic targets for HIV cure. This is the first epidemiologic host gene expression study to demonstrate a significant link between HIV reservoir size and several well-known immunologic pathways (e.g., IL-1β, TLR7, TNF-α signaling pathways), as well as novel associations with potassium and gap junction channels (Kir2.1, connexin 26). Further data are needed to validate these findings, including functional genomic studies and expanded epidemiologic studies in female, non-European cohorts.

Analysis of the prescription pattern of psychotropics in an outpatient department of a general hospital psychiatry unit

BACKGROUND

World Health Organization has prescribed drug use indicators for evaluating rational prescribing. Very few studies have been conducted on rational prescriptions for psychotropic drugs; hence, this study was undertaken at a tertiary care center of North India.

METHODS

After obtaining approval of the Institutional Ethics Committee, all prescriptions deposited with the dispensary of the psychiatry department of the hospital between 01 October 2017 and 31 December 2017 were included in the study. The prescriptions were analyzed for drug use indicators, namely the average number of drugs per encounter, percentage of prescriptions with generic name, percentage of prescriptions from the essential drug list, percentage of prescriptions with antibiotics, and percentage of prescriptions with an injection. In addition, the prescriptions were analyzed for patterns of psychotropics prescribed.

RESULTS

A total of 3770 prescriptions were analyzed. On an average, 2.35 medicines were prescribed per prescription. Injectable comprised 2.39% of prescriptions and fixed drug combinations were 0.16% of the total. Of all prescriptions, 91.3% were by generic name, while 55.02% of prescriptions were from the essential drug list. Polypharmacy constituted 4.53% of prescriptions. Risperidone, escitalopram, sodium valproate, and clonazepam were the most commonly prescribed drugs.

CONCLUSION

While we fared well with respect to the percentage of prescriptions with injections and those with an antibiotic, we have not been able to achieve the prescribed standards in prescription with generic names, number of drugs per prescription, and prescriptions from the essential drug list. The study emphasizes that there is scope for improvement.

Proactive coping style and intentional self-harm: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Coping style adopted by a person has been identified as an important factor in precipitating or preventing an intentional self-harm attempt. While the influence of reactive coping has received lot of research attention, effects of proactive coping on suicidal behavior has not been studied, even though it is known that proactive coping is associated with better mental health. The authors in the current study sought to investigate the relationship of proactive coping style with attempted deliberate self-harm.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 44 individuals who presented with intentional self-harm were compared with age, sex, marital status, and education-matched healthy controls. Pierce Suicide Intent Scale was used to ascertain suicidal intent, and Proactive Coping Inventory was used to assess proactive coping.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences between subjects and controls for proactive coping, preventive coping, emotional support seeking, avoidance coping, and instrumental support seeking. However, participants scored higher in strategic planning (P = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

Proactive coping has no significant relationship with intentional self-harm; however, more studies with better designs are needed to comment conclusively.

Predictive Models in Differentiating Vertebral Lesions Using Multiparametric MRI

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Conventional MR imaging has high sensitivity but limited specificity in differentiating various vertebral lesions. We aimed to assess the ability of multiparametric MR imaging in differentiating spinal vertebral lesions and to develop statistical models for predicting the probability of malignant vertebral lesions.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred twenty-six consecutive patients underwent multiparametric MRI (conventional MR imaging, diffusion-weighted MR imaging, and in-phase/opposed-phase imaging) for vertebral lesions. Vertebral lesions were divided into 3 subgroups: infectious, noninfectious benign, and malignant. The cutoffs for apparent diffusion coefficient (expressed as 10^-3 mm²/s) and signal intensity ratio values were calculated, and 3 predictive models were established for differentiating these subgroups.

RESULTS

Of the lesions of the 126 patients, 62 were infectious, 22 were noninfectious benign, and 42 were malignant. The mean ADC was 1.23 ± 0.16 for infectious, 1.41 ± 0.31 for noninfectious benign, and 1.01 ± 0.22 mm²/s for malignant lesions. The mean signal intensity ratio was 0.80 ± 0.13 for infectious, 0.75 ± 0.19 for noninfectious benign, and 0.98 ± 0.11 for the malignant group. The combination of ADC and signal intensity ratio showed strong discriminatory ability to differentiate lesion type. We found an area under the curve of 0.92 for the predictive model in differentiating infectious from malignant lesions and an area under the curve of 0.91 for the predictive model in differentiating noninfectious benign from malignant lesions. On the basis of the mean ADC and signal intensity ratio, we established automated statistical models that would be helpful in differentiating vertebral lesions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows that multiparametric MRI differentiates various vertebral lesions, and we established prediction models for the same.

Impact of pigeon pea biochar on cadmium mobility in soil and transfer rate to leafy vegetable spinach

Introduction of heavy metals in the environment by various anthropogenic activities has become a potential treat to life. Among the heavy metals, cadmium (Cd) shows relatively high soil mobility and has high phyto-mammalian toxicity. Integration of soil remediation and ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration in soils through organic amendments, may provide an attractive land management option for contaminated sites. The application of biochar in agriculture has recently received much attention globally due to its associated multiple benefits, particularly, long-term carbon storage in soil. However, the application of biochar from softwood crop residue for heavy metal immobilization, as an alternative to direct field application, has not received much attention. Hence, a pot experiment was conducted to study the effect of pigeon pea biochar on cadmium mobility in a soil-plant system in cadmium-spiked sandy loam soil. The biochar was prepared from pigeon pea stalk through a slow pyrolysis method at 300 °C. The experiment was designed with three levels of Cd (0, 5, and 10 mg Cd kg(-1) soil) and three levels of biochar (0, 2.5, and 5 g kg(-1) soil) using spinach as a test crop. The results indicate that with increasing levels of applied cadmium at 5 and 10 mg kg(-1) soil, the dry matter yield (DMY) of spinach leaf decreased by 9.84 and 18.29 %, respectively. However, application of biochar (at 2.5 and 5 g kg(-1) soil) significantly increased the dry matter yield of spinach leaf by 5.07 and 15.02 %, respectively, and root by 14.0 and 24.0 %, respectively, over the control. Organic carbon content in the post-harvest soil increased to 34.9 and 60.5 % due to the application of biochar 2.5 and 5 g kg(-1) soil, respectively. Further, there was a reduction in the diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA)-extractable cadmium in the soil and in transfer coefficient values (soil to plant), as well as its concentrations in spinach leaf and root, indicating that cadmium mobility was decreased due to biochar application. This study shows that pigeon pea biochar has the potential to increase spinach yield and reduce cadmium mobility in contaminated sandy soil.

Anticancer Effects of Extracts from the Fruit of Morinda Citrifolia (Noni) in Breast Cancer Cell Lines

Morinda citrifolia L. (NONI) fruits have been used for thousands of years for the treatment of many health problems including cancer, cold, diabetes, flu, hypertension, and pain. Plant extracts have reported several therapeutic benefits, but extraction of individual compound from the extract often exhibits limited clinical utility as the synergistic effect of various natural ingredients gets lost. They generally constitute polyphenols and flavonoids. Studies have suggested that these phytochemicals, especially polyphenols, display high antioxidant properties, which help to reduce the risk of degenerative diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Several in-vitro and in-vivo studies have shown that Noni fruits have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-dementia, liver-protective, anticancer, analgesic, and immunomodulatory effects. Till date about 7 in vitro cancer studies have been done, but a detailed in vitro study including cell cycle and caspase activation assay on breast cancer cell line has not been done. In the present study different Noni fruit fractions have tested on cancer cell lines MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 (breast adenocarcinoma) and one non-cancer cell line HEK-293 (Human embryonic kidney). Out of which ethylacetate extract showed a higher order of in vitro anticancer activity profile. The ethylacetate extract strongly inhibited the proliferation of MCF-7, MDA-MB-231 and HEK-293 cell lines with IC50 values of 25, 35, 60 µg/ml respectively. The extract showed increase in apoptotic cells in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells and arrested the cell cycle in the G1/S phase in MCF-7 and G0/G1 phase in MDA-MB-231 cells. Noni extract also decreases the intracellular ROS generation and mitochondrial membrane potential.

Efficacy of leech therapy in the management of osteoarthritis (Sandhivata)

Osteoarthritis (degenerative joint disease) is the most common joint disorder. It mostly affects cartilage. The top layer of cartilage breaks down and wears away. Osteoarthritis is of two types, primary (idiopathic) and secondary. In idiopathic osteoarthritis, the most common form of the disease, no predisposing factor is apparent. Secondary OA is pathologically indistinguishable from idiopathic OA but is attributable to an underlying cause. In Ayurveda the disease Sandhivata resembles with osteoarthritis which is described under Vatavyadhi. The NSAIDs are the main drugs of choice in modern medicine which have lots of side effects and therefore are not safe for long-term therapy. Raktamokshan, i.e., blood letting is one of the ancient and important parasurgical procedures described in Ayurveda for treatment of various diseases. Of them, Jalaukavacharana or leech therapy has gained greater attention globally, because of its medicinal values. The saliva of leech contains numerous biologically active substances, which have antiinflammatory as well as anesthetic properties. Keeping this view in mind we have started leech therapy in the patients of osteoarthritis and found encouraging results.

A naturally occurring rare analog of quercetin promotes peak bone mass achievement and exerts anabolic effect on osteoporotic bone

The effect of quercetin C-glucoside (QCG) on osteoblast function in vitro and bone formation in vivo was investigated. QCG supplementation promoted peak bone mass achievement in growing rats and new bone formation in osteopenic rats. QCG has substantial oral bioavailability. Findings suggest a significant bone anabolic effect of QCG.

INTRODUCTION

Recently, we showed that extracts of Ulmus wallichiana promoted peak bone mass achievement in growing rats and preserved trabecular bone mass and cortical bone strength in ovariectomized (OVx) rats. 3,3',4',5,7-Pentahydroxyflavone-6-C-β-D-glucopyranoside, a QCG, is the most abundant bioactive compound of U. wallichiana extract. We hypothesize that QCG exerts bone anabolic effects by stimulating osteoblast function.

METHODS

Osteoblast cultures were harvested from rat calvaria and bone marrow (BM) to study differentiation and mineralization. In vivo, growing female Sprague Dawley rats and OVx rats with osteopenia were administered QCG (5.0 or 10.0 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) orally for 12 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated by examining changes in bone microarchitecture using histomorphometric and microcomputed tomographic analyses and by determination of new bone formation by fluorescent labeling of bone. Plasma and BM levels of QCG were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography.

RESULTS

QCG was much more potent than quercetin (Q) in stimulating osteoblast differentiation, and the effect of QCG was not mediated by estrogen receptors. In growing rats, QCG increased BM osteoprogenitors, bone mineral density, bone formation rate, and cortical deposition. In osteopenic rats, QCG treatment increased bone formation rate and improved trabecular microarchitecture. Comparison with the sham group (ovary intact) revealed significant restoration of trabecular bone in osteopenic rats treated with QCG. QCG levels in the BM were ~50% of that of the plasma levels.

CONCLUSION

QCG stimulated modeling-directed bone accrual and exerted anabolic effects on osteopenic rats by direct stimulatory effect on osteoprogenitors likely due to substantial QCG delivery at tissue level following oral administration.

Methylphenidate for gait impairment in Parkinson disease: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

There is a paucity of therapies for gait impairment in Parkinson disease (PD). Open-label studies have suggested improved gait after treatment with methylphenidate (MPD).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of MPD for the treatment of gait impairment in PD.

METHODS

Twenty-seven subjects with PD and moderate gait impairment were screened for this 6-month placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Subjects were randomly assigned to MPD (maximum, up to 80 mg/day) or placebo for 12 weeks and crossed over after a 3-week washout. The primary outcome measure was change in a gait composite score (stride length + velocity) between groups at 4 and 12 weeks. Secondary outcome measures included changes in motor function, as measured by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS), Freezing of Gait Questionnaire (FOGQ), number of gait-diary freezing episodes, and measures of depression, sleepiness, and quality of life. Three-factor repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to measure changes between groups.

RESULTS

Twenty-three eligible subjects with PD were randomized and 17 completed the trial. There was no change in the gait composite score or treatment or time effect for any of the variables. Treatment effect was not modified by state or study visit. Although there was a trend for reduced frequency of freezing and shuffling per diary, the FOGQ and UPDRS scores worsened in the MPD group compared to placebo. There was a marginal improvement in some measures of depression.

CONCLUSIONS

MPD did not improve gait and tended to worsen measures of motor function, sleepiness, and quality of life.

CLASSIFICATION OF EVIDENCE

This study provides Class III evidence for the lack of benefit of MPD on PD-associated gait impairment.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT00526630.

Airborne Cu and Zn at some urban sites in Pital Nagri (Moradabad), India

Airborne concentrations of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in suspended particulate matter (SPM) have been measured at three urban sites in Pital Nagri (brass city) of India over a period of one year, i.e., August 2006 to July 2007. Analysis of samples was carried out by the atomic absorption spectrophotometer. A comparison was made between the sites and concluded that the maximum concentrations of SPM (762 microgm(-3)), Cu (56.01 microgm(-3)) and Zn (72.15 microgm(-3)) were found at industrial site and minimum at residential (200 microgm(-3), 2.10 microgm(-3) and 1.65 microgm(-3)) site respectively. A seasonal variation in concentrations was also observed. In this paper, an attempt has been made to identify the various sources responsible for the high level of toxicity and it has been concluded that brass industries are mainly responsible for the enhanced concentration of these two metals.

Effect of ambient air sulphur dioxide on sulphate accumulation in plants

Present study deals with the relationship between ambient air sulphurdioxide and sulphate content in leaf of selected tropical plant species, Ficus religiosa. The study reveals a positive correlation between ambient air sulphur dioxide and sulphate in the leaves. Two way ANOVA finds the obtained values to be highly significant (p < 0.001). Amount of sulphate in leaves shows positive correlation with sulphur dioxide in air (p < 0.001) during most part of the study A marked reduction of sulphate content in leaf was found during October when reduction in ambient air sulphur dioxide was recorded.

Pollution tolerance and distribution pattern of plants in surrounding area of coal-fired industries

Higher concentration of SO2 and particulate matters was reported in surrounding areas of coal-fired industries which influences the distribution pattern of plants. Sensitive plant species are abolished from such areas, however, only pollution tolerant species survive under stress conditions. The present study was designed to investigate the vegetation composition around coal-fired industries i.e. brick industries. To categorise plants as sensitive or resistant air pollution tolerance index (APTI) value was calculated. Out of 99 plants studied, Ricinus communis with APTI 81.10 was found to be the most resistant wild plant showing uniform distribution at all the polluted sites. On the other hand, Lepidium sativum with APTI 5.27 was recorded as the most sensitive plant and found to be present only at the less polluted sites.

Novel disulphide esters of carbothioic acid as potent, non-detergent spermicides with low toxicity to Lactobacillus and HeLa cells in vitro

BACKGROUND

The design, synthesis, characterization and evaluation of a novel series of non-detergent spermicides has led to the discovery of two unique molecules (DSE-36 and DSE-37) that were approximately 25 times more potent spermicides than nonoxynol-9 (N-9).

METHODS

Normal human spermatozoa were used to assess the spermicidal activity (Sander-Cramer Assay), the effect on sperm-membrane integrity [hypo-osmotic swelling test (HOST)], supravital staining and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the induction of apoptosis [fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) Annexin-V and JC-1 labelling using flow cytometry] by the new class of compounds. HeLa and Lactobacillus cultures were used to assess the cytotoxicity of compounds and their compatibility to normal vaginal flora, respectively.

RESULTS

Compounds DSE-36 and DSE-37 exhibited a strong spermicidal activity [minimum effective concentration (MEC) = 0.002%], which was approximately 25 times more potent than that of N-9 and Sapindus saponins (MEC = 0.05%). As compared with surfactants, DSE-36 and DSE-37 were found to be safer at MEC towards the growth and survival of Lactobacilli and HeLa cells in vitro and to have a milder effect on sperm plasma membrane. At EC(50) both induced apoptosis in sperm cells as characterized by increased labelling with Annexin-V and decreased polarization of sperm mitochondria.

CONCLUSION

Preliminary studies have revealed that in sharp contrast to the non-specific surfactant action of N-9, DSE-36 and DSE-37 have a highly potent, mechanism-based, detrimental action on human sperm. The unique ability of these non-detergent molecules to selectively kill sperm and spare Lactobacilli and HeLa cells at MEC values much lower than that required for N-9 indicates their potential as superior ingredients for formulation into microbicidal contraceptives.

HPLC and HPTLC assays for the antimalarial agents Chloroquine, Primaquine and Bulaquine

A combination Kit for antirelapse treatment of P. vivax malaria, consisting of Chloroquine phosphate tablets and Bulaquine capsules has been recently developed, and marketed under the trade name Aablaquine. Bulaquine is prepared from Primaquine. Several methods of analysis are reported for each drug separately as well two drugs in combination but no method for simultaneous estimation of these three drugs is known. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to develop a sensitive and reproducible high performance liquid chromatographic as well as high performance thin layer chromatographic assay method for the simultaneous estimation of Chloroquine, Primaquine and Bulaquine.

Assay method for quality control and stability studies of a new CVS disorder agent (compound 93/478)

1-[4-(4-fluorophenyl)-piperazine-1-yl]-3-(2-oxopyrrolidin-1-yl)-propane hydrochloride, (I), (CDRI code No. 93/478) is a new potent anti-ischemic and anti-hypertensive agent, being developed at the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), Lucknow, India. A sensitive high performance liquid chromatographic assay method has been developed and validated for in process quality control and for stability studies. HPLC separation was achieved on a C(18) Purospher (Merck) column using a gradient of 0.02% tetra-methyl ammonium hydroxide (pH 7.5) and acetonitrile as mobile phase. The eluents were monitored by diode array detector at 240 and 290 nm. The lower limit of detection of I was 0.62 microg/ml, while the lower limit of quantitation was set to be 1.5 microg/ml. The calibration curves were linear in the range 1.5-62 microg/ml. Reproducibility of the method was determined by inter and intra assay variation, which were <10%.

Mechanism of action of some acrylophenones, quinolines and dithiocarbamate as potent, non-detergent spermicidal agents

Some suitably substituted acrylophenones, quinolines and dithiocarbamate were synthesized as new generation, non-detergent spermicides and were studied for their mechanism of action in comparison with various known spermicides belonging to several different classes of chemical compound. Nonoxynol-9, benzalkonium chloride, Sapindus saponins, verapamil, emetine and tartaric acid were used as reference molecules to study the effect of new spermicides on human sperm motility parameters (using computer-assisted semen analyzer), plasma membrane integrity, lipid peroxidation and defense system against reactive oxygen species (ROS). Results have indicated that sperm plasma membrane remains the primary site of action of most of the spermicides, though the effect may be predominantly on the physiological integrity rather than the structural integrity in case of the new compounds. Lipid peroxidation may play an important role in disrupting sperm membrane physiology that may or may not be accompanied with a detrimental effect on the defense system of the human spermatozoa against the ROS.

Effect of compound CDRI 84/35 and synthetic estrogen on the seminiferous epithelium of immature rat

Compound CDRI 84/35 (a piperazine derivative--a potent antispermatogenic agent) has been shown to cause significant inhibition in testicular spermatogenesis without affecting Leydig cell and accessory sex organ function in adult rats. The present study was conducted to determine its effect on the germ cell population and Leydig cell morphology in immature rats (40-50 gm) administered CDRI 84/35 (100 mg/kg/day p.o.), synthetic estradiol benzoate (EB; 5 microg/rat/day) and vehicle at the age of 21 days. Animals were killed 24 h later following 7 and 14 days' treatments. Bouin's fixed testes were sectioned (at 5 microm) and stained with PAS-hematoxylin. Quantitative determination of Sertoli Cell-Germ Cell ratio was carried out in 150 round seminiferous tubules in each group of 5 rats. Results revealed a significant decrease in number of the spermatocytes (non-pachytene and pachytene) and early (round) spermatids in step 1-8 of spermiogenesis without affecting Leydig cell morphology in rats administered CDRI 84/35 for 7 and 14 days as compared to corresponding controls. In contrast, the testes of rats injected with synthetic EB, caused a marked inhibition in these meiotic and post-meiotic germ cell types, as well as in the diameters of round seminiferous tubules, and Leydig cells nuclei (only in 14 days treatment), and testicular weight on autopsy days 8 and 15 as compared to CDRI 84/35-treated rats. While the number of pre-meiotic spermatogoniae was observed to be slightly decreased after only 14 days treatment in both CDRI 84/35 and EB treatment groups, the Sertoli cell number did not show any significant change as compared to controls. The present investigation confirms the antispermatogenic effect of compound CDRI 84/35 in immature rats similar to that reported in adult rats. Marked inhibition in pachytene spermatocytes and other testicular parameters following synthetic estrogen treatment might be due to its antiandrogenic action, contrasting with the non-hormonal profile of CDRI compound.

Inhalable microparticles containing drug combinations to target alveolar macrophages for treatment of pulmonary tuberculosis

PURPOSE

Drug therapy of tuberculosis (TB) requires long-term oral administration of multiple drugs for curing as well as preventing and/ or combating multi-drug resistance. Persistent, high blood levels of antitubercular drugs resulting from prolonged oral administration of anti-TB drugs may be neither necessary nor sufficient to kill mycobacteria residing in macrophages (M4). Inhalable biodegradable microparticles containing two of the first-line anti-TB drugs, isoniazid (H), and rifampicin (R), were prepared and tested for (i) phagocytosis by mouse Mphi. (ii) administration as a dry powder inhalation to rats, and (iii) targeting alveolar Mphi with high drug doses when administered to rats.

METHODS

poly(D-L lactic acid) microparticles were prepared by emulsion methods and their drug content and size distribution determined. These were tested for uptake by murine Mphi in culture and resultant intracellular drug concentrations determined by high performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC). Rats were administered an inhalation of microparticles using an inhalation chamber developed in the lab. The extent of microparticle delivery in vivo was examined by flow-cytometry. Drug concentrations in the blood and in alveolar Mphi were estimated by high-performance liquid chromatography after oral, vascular. intratracheal, and inhalation administration.

RESULTS

Inhalable microparticles could be prepared and were taken up by cultured Mphi. Large numbers of particles could be delivered to the bronchiopulmonary system through a 2-min exposure to fluidized particles. The intracellular drug concentrations resulting from vascular delivery of soluble drugs were found to be lower than those resulting from particle inhalation.

CONCLUSIONS

Inhalable microparticles containing multiple anti-TB drugs offer promises of dose and dosing-frequency reduction, toxicity alleviation, and targeting Mphi-resident persistent mycobacteria.

Pharmacokinetics and in-situ absorption studies of a new anti-allergic compound 73/602 in rats

Compound 73/602 (AA) is a structural analogue of vasicinone, an alkaloid present in the leaves and roots of Adhatoda vasica (Acanthaceae). It possesses potent antiallergic activity in mice, rats and guinea pigs. The pK(a) of AA was determined to be 2.87+/-0. 19 by UV spectrophotometry. The absorption kinetics of this compound were studied in-situ using a rat gut technique at pH 2.6 and 7.4. The rate of absorption at pH 2.6 (0.0288+/-0.004 min(-1)) was slightly less than at pH 7.4 (0.035+/-0.0008 min(-1)). This characteristic behavior was attributed to the low pK(a) of AA, a weekly basic compound, where nearly 35% of the compound remained in the unionized form at pH 2.6. Also, the return of compound into the mucosal lumen from the blood capillaries over a period of 2 h after administering a 2 mg dose in tail vein was less than 0.3%. Hence it was concluded that entero-enteric circulation of AA did not contribute significantly to the in-situ absorption rates. Pharmacokinetic parameters of AA were determined in male rats after administering a single 10 mg/kg intravenous dose (i.v.) and 50 mg/kg oral bolus dose. Following i.v. administration the initial decline in serum concentration was rapid with half-life of 20.2 min. After a single oral dose the concentration-time data of AA in rats was best described by a one-compartment model with equal first order absorption and apparent elimination rate constants. The half-life of the decline in serum concentration of AA following oral administration was 50.6 min, indicating absorption rate limiting disposition at the high dose given. Comparison of AUC of oral and i. v. data indicates that only about 60% of the oral dose reach the systemic circulation.

3'-deoxyribonucleosides and their derivatives as anti-amoebic agents

In general nucleoside analogues were found to possess in vitro amoebicidal property against trophozoites of Entamoeba histolytica. The acid-labile nature of these compounds completely destroyed their ability to cure caecal amoebiasis of rats. However the therapeutic efficacy of one of these compounds yielded most promising results, with 10% cures when it was administered as enteric coated formulation.

Changes in daily sperm production rate in rats under the influence of a potent antispermatogenic agent, CDRI 84/35

CDRI 84/35, a potent nonsteroidal antispermatogenic agent, causes total sterility in rats by directly acting on germ cells while having no effect on Sertoli/Leydig cells. This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of the compound on gametogenic activity of testes and to identify stages of spermatogenesis that were affected. Adult male rats administered either compound 84/35 at minimum effective dose or estradiol (5 micrograms) or water only were killed on days 22, 41, and 64 of the treatment period to evaluate the effect on spermatid, spermatocyte, and spermatogonial stages, respectively. Daily sperm production (DSP) was measured employing a homogenization technique. Results showed a decline in testis weight and DSP with a drastic reduction (approximately 95%) in DSP in 84/35-treated rats on day 41 of the treatment period. Estradiol was more potent in reducing the testis weight; however, 84/35 had an edge over estradiol in reducing the DSP. After withdrawal of treatment for 120 days, a phenomenal recovery (> 90%) in DSP per gram parenchyma was noted in 84/35-treated animals. Results indicate a direct effect of estradiol on spermatogonia, whereas 84/35 seems to affect the spermatocyte stage.

Effect of antispermatogenic compound CDRI-84/35 on marker enzymes of rat testis cells. A study on site of action

Marker enzymes of Sertoli and germ cells were estimated to study the mechanism of action of antispermatogenic compound CDRI 84/35 in adult male rat testis. Animals were killed after 22, 41, and 64 days of treatment with antispermatogenic dose of CDRI 84/35 in order to evaluate the effect of the compound on spermatid, spermatocyte, and spermatogonial stages, respectively. Studies were also extended to a recovery period of 90 days. Results indicate a direction action of the compound on germ cells, with no apparent effect on Sertoli cells. Studies also show a massive depletion of postmeiotic germ cells after the treatment, with some damage to premeiotic germ cells as well. Reversibility of the compound was partial, with the marker enzymes of pre- and postmeiotic germ cells not being restored to control levels after withdrawal of treatment.

Sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic assay method for the determination of picroside I in plasma

Picroliv is a new hepatoprotective agent, being developed at the Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI, Lucknow, India). Picroside I is a major active constituent of picroliv. A sensitive high-performance liquid chromatographic assay method in plasma has been developed and validated for the determination of picroside I in plasma. The method consists of extraction of the drug, after protein precipitation with methanol, from rabbit plasma samples. Separation was achieved using a C18 endcapped reversed-phase column coupled with a photodiode array detector and acetonitrile-0.1 M acetic acid (25:75) as mobile phase. The lower limit of quantification in plasma is 50 ng/ml. The standard curve was linear over the range of 50-500 ng/ml in rabbit plasma. The analytical recovery of picroside I added to plasma was >80%. The reproducibility was determined by the inter- and intra-assay precision which were <15%.

The effect of cyclodextrins on the stability of peptides in nasal enzymic systems

Leucine enkephalin (YGGFL) undergoes rapid degradation in sheep nasal mucosa to yield GGFL which is further degraded to FL. The activity of the nasal mucosal homogenate against YGGFL and GGFL (t1/2 12 and 7 min) was significantly greater than that observed with a nasal wash fluid (t1/2 40 and 13 min). The effect of cyclodextrins on the rate of degradation of FGG and YGGFL by leucine aminopeptidase (LAP) and of GGF by carboxypeptidase A (CPA) was monitored. Little effect was observed with FGG (with LAP) but the half-life of YGGFL (with LAP) was extended from approximately 44 min to approximately 75 min in the presence of a 25-fold excess of beta-cyclodextrin. The stability of GGF (with CPA) was also enhanced; an effect was observable with a 5-fold excess of cyclodextrin and the half-life could be extended by 40-75%. An equation is presented which allows the estimation of the concentration of free peptide in the peptide-cyclodextrin solutions.

A new imprinting material for scanning electron microscopic studies

A new imprinting material, "Thermocool", has been used for preparing negative replicas of plant as well as metal surfaces for SEM study. The technique has wide application and gives very good results.

Causative organisms in microbial keratitis, their sensitivity pattern and treatment outcome in western Nepal

Introduction: Corneal infection is one of the major causes of monocular blindness in developing countries. Objective: To determine the epidemiological characteristics, predisposing factors, microbiological pattern, sensitivity pattern and treatment outcome of microbial keratitis. Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis of hospital records of 414 patients with diagnosed infective keratitis was done. The outcome measures were microbial isolates, their sensitivity to therapeutic agents and treatment outcome. Results: Of the total, 312 (75.4 %) patients were farmers by profession, 138 (33.3 %) had a history of ocular trauma and 17(4.1 %) were using topical corticosteroids. Among the 138 cases of the corneal ulcer with trauma, 52 (37.68 %) had fungi isolated in culture (RR=0.54, 95% CI = 0.44 – 0.68) and 32 (23.19 %) had a bacterial growth. Cultures were positive in 300 (72.5 %) cases, having 138 (33.3 %) patients with pure fungal infection, 121 (29.2 %) with pure bacterial and 41 (9.9 %) with mixed infection. Fusarium spp was the most common fungal pathogen while Staphylococcus epidermidis was the commonest bacterial isolate. The most sensitive antibiotics for the Gram positive bacteria was cephazolin (84.92 %), while for Gram negative, ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin were the most effective (79.31 %). Of 414 cases of corneal ulcers, 363 (87.7 %) cases healed completely. Conclusion: Microbial keratitis is mostly seen in farmers in this part of the world. Fusarium and Staphylococcus epidermidis were the most common isolates. Cephazoline and ofloxacin were the most effective antibiotics for Gram positive and Gram negative organisms respectively. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/nepjoph.v4i1.5863 NEPJOPH 2012; 4(1): 119-127