Silver nanoparticles enhanced enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) detection of cancer testis antigens (CTAs)

OBJECTIVE

The Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) has been a cornerstone technique in laboratory medicine for over 55 years, relying on the specific binding of antibodies to antigens. ELISA's widespread use stems from its ability to detect low concentrations, its specificity, reproducibility, and potential for high-throughput screening. However, its sensitivity has limitations, prompting the exploration of innovative methods to improve the limit of detection (LOD). Nanoparticles provide a promising platform for enhancing ELISA sensitivity. Due to their high surface-to-volume ratio, they offer increased binding sites for capture elements and reporting tags, leading to amplified analytical signals. Recent studies have demonstrated improved sensitivity in ELISA through nanoparticle application, yielding faster detection times and enhanced sensitivities. This study investigates the potential of 50 nm citrate-capped silver nanoparticles to enhance ELISA's performance in quantifying cancer testis antigens (CTAs).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In our study, we used the Human NY-ESO-1 ELISA kit (for research purposes) to determine the concentration of CTAs in randomly selected samples from healthy (n=89) and oncological (n=80) subjects, aged 18-75. We employed 50 nm citrate-capped silver nanoparticles (AGCB50-1M, BioPure Silver Nanoparticles - bare citrate, nano-Composix, San Diego, CA, USA). ELISA reactions followed the manufacturer's instructions, and data processing aligned with the same guidelines. Absorbance (OD) measurements occurred at 450 nm, influencing nanoparticle selection. Each ELISA well contained 5 ml of nanoparticles' stock solution with specified concentrations. CTAs concentrations were derived from the standard curve through CurveExpert Basic software. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v. 27 software, with p-values indicating significance if <0.03. The study adhered to Helsinki Declaration principles and received ethical approval. Participants provided informed written consent.

RESULTS

The increased concentration values of CTAs for healthy individuals and cancer patients were determined in the case of the application of silver nanoparticles.

CONCLUSIONS

The usage of nanoparticles can enhance the sensitivity of the ELISA method and positively influence its specific detection limit.

Re-focusing on Agnathia-Otocephaly complex

OBJECTIVES

Agnathia-otocephaly complex is a rare condition characterized by mandibular hypoplasia or agnathia, ear anomalies (melotia/synotia) and microstomia with aglossia. This severe anomaly of the first branchial arch is most often lethal. The estimated incidence is less than 1 in 70.000 births, with etiologies linked to both genetic and teratogenic factors. Most of the cases are sporadic. To date, two genes have been described in humans to be involved in this condition: OTX2 and PRRX1. Nevertheless, the overall proportion of mutated cases is unknown and a significant number of patients remain without molecular diagnosis. Thus, the involvement of other genes than OTX2 and PRRX1 in the agnathia-otocephaly complex is not unlikely. Heterozygous mutations in Cnbp in mice are responsible for mandibular and eye defects mimicking the agnathia-otocephaly complex in humans and appear as a good candidate. Therefore, in this study, we aimed (i) to collect patients presenting with agnathia-otocephaly complex for screening CNBP, in parallel with OTX2 and PRRX1, to check its possible implication in the human phenotype and (ii) to compare our results with the literature data to estimate the proportion of mutated cases after genetic testing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this work, we describe 10 patients suffering from the agnathia-otocephaly complex. All of them benefited from array-CGH and Sanger sequencing of OTX2, PRRX1 and CNBP. A complete review of the literature was made using the Pubmed database to collect all the patients described with a phenotype of agnathia-otocephaly complex during the 20 last years (1998-2019) in order (i) to study etiology (genetic causes, iatrogenic causes…) and (ii), when genetic testing was performed, to study which genes were tested and by which type of technologies.

RESULTS

In our 10 patients' cohort, no point mutation in the three tested genes was detected by Sanger sequencing, while array-CGH has allowed identifying a 107-kb deletion encompassing OTX2 responsible for the agnathia-otocephaly complex phenotype in 1 of them. In 4 of the 70 cases described in the literature, a toxic cause was identified and 22 out the 66 remaining cases benefited from genetic testing. Among those 22 patients, 6 were carrying mutation or deletion in the OTX2 gene and 4 in the PRRX1 gene. Thus, when compiling results from our cohort and the literature, a total of 32 patients benefited from genetic testing, with only 34% (11/32) of patients having a mutation in one of the two known genes, OTX2 or PRRX1.

CONCLUSIONS

From our work and the literature review, only mutations in OTX2 and PRRX1 have been found to date in patients, explaining around one third of the etiologies after genetic testing. Thus, agnathia-otocephaly complex remains unexplained in the majority of the patients, which indicates that other factors might be involved. Although involved in first branchial arch defects, no mutation in the CNBP gene was found in this study. This suggests that mutations in CNBP might not be involved in such phenotype in humans or that, unlike in mice, a compensatory effect might exist in humans. Nevertheless, given that agnathia-otocephaly complex is a rare phenotype, more patients have to be screened for CNBP mutations before we definitively conclude about its potential implication. Therefore, this work presents the current state of knowledge on agnathia-otocephaly complex and underlines the need to expand further the understanding of the genetic bases of this disorder, which remains largely unknown.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

We made here an update and focus on the clinical and genetic aspects of agnathia-otocephaly complex as well as a more general review of craniofacial development.

Real-world outcomes according to treatment strategies in ALK-rearranged non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients: an Italian retrospective study

PURPOSE

Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) rearrangement confers sensitivity to ALK inhibitors (ALKis) in non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although several drugs provided an impressive outcome benefit, the most effective sequential strategy is still unknown. We describe outcomes of real-life patients according to the treatment strategy received.

PATIENTS

We retrospectively collected 290 ALK rearranged advanced NSCLC diagnosed between 2011 and 2017 in 23 Italian institutions.

RESULTS

After a median follow-up of 26 months, PFS for crizotinib and a new generation ALKis were 9.4 [CI 95% 7.9-11.2] and 11.1 months [CI 95% 9.2-13.8], respectively, while TTF were 10.2 [CI 95% 8.5-12.6] and 11.9 months [CI 95% 9.7-17.4], respectively, being consistent across the different settings. The composed outcomes (the sum of PFS or TTF) in patients treated with crizotinib followed by a new generation ALKis were 27.8 months [CI 95% 24.3-33.7] in PFS and 30.4 months [CI 95% 24.7-34.9] in TTF. The median OS from the diagnosis of advanced disease was 39 months [CI 95% 31.8-54.5]. Patients receiving crizotinib followed by a new generation ALKis showed a higher median OS [57 months (CI 95% 42.0-73.8)] compared to those that did not receive crizotinib [38 months (CI 95% 18.6-NR)] and those who performed only crizotinib as target agent [15 months (CI 95% 11.3-34.0)] (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The sequential administration of crizotinib and a new generation ALKis provided a remarkable clinical benefit in this real-life population, being an interesting option to consider in selected patients.

Complete Maxillo-Mandibular Syngnathia in a Newborn with Multiple Congenital Malformations

Syngnathia is an extremely rare condition involving congenital fusion of the maxilla with the mandible. Clinical presentations vary from simple mucosal bands (synechiae) to complete bony fusion (synostosis). Most cases are unilateral incomplete fusions. We report the case of a severely growth-retarded newborn infant with complete synostosis of the mandible with the maxilla and the zygoma associated with cleft palate, choanal atresia, deafness, delayed cerebral white matter development, and genital and limb malformations. Extensive genetic analysis did not reveal any mutations. This association of multiple congenital malformations may represent an entity distinct from previously described syndromes associated with syngnathia.

Induction Chemotherapy to Weekly Paclitaxel Concurrent with Curative Radiotherapy in Stage IV (M0) Unresectable Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: a Dose Escalation Study

The purpose was to determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of weekly paclitaxel with concurrent, daily irradiation in patients with unresectable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma previously submitted to induction chemotherapy. Patients with stage IV, and unresectable tumor and/or node/s were enrolled. Nine male patients were submitted to a course of paclitaxel 175 mg/m2 day 1 and cisplatin 75 mg/m2 day 2 given every 3 weeks for three courses. Curative radiotherapy (RT) started 3 weeks after the last cycle of chemotherapy with the goal of delivering a total dose of 66-70 Gy. During RT weekly paclitaxel was administered for 6 courses if feasible; paclitaxel was given according to a dose escalation schema in cohorts of three patients. Dose level A, 30 mg/m2; dose level B, 40 mg/m2; dose level C, 50 mg/m2. During weekly paclitaxel the major toxicity was mucositis that required a treatment break in two of three patients in dose level C; mucositis grade 4 required interruption of paclitaxel administration in all these patients. RT can be given in a continuous fashion with weekly paclitaxel after induction chemotherapy. The MTD of weekly paclitaxel was 40 mg/m2.

Diagnostic value of PET/CT in differentiating benign from malignant solitary pulmonary nodules

PURPOSE

Solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) are round or oval lesions with a clear border with the surrounding parenchymal tissue and a radiologic diameter smaller than 3 cm which are not associated with atelectasis, pneumonia, lymphadenopathy, or chest wall pathologies. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of positron emission tomography (PET) / computerized tomography (CT) in differentiating benign from malignant SPNs.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, 209 patients, who were diagnosed with SPN by thoracic CT and demonstrated positive or negative results for malignancy in the PET/ CT examination between January 2007 and June 2010, were enrolled. Among the 91 patients who gave consent for interventional procedures, performed were bronchoscopic endobronchial biopsy in 10, transbronchial biopsy in 15, bronchoscopic brushing in 4, transthoracic needle biopsy in 11, video-assisted thoracoscopy (VATS) in 4, lobectomy in 22, pneumonectomy in 2, and wedge resection in 23. The materials were histopathologically examined.

RESULTS

129 (61.72%) of the SPN cases were benign and 80 (38.27%) malignant. The mean SUVmax value for the benign SPNs was 2.06 ± 3.29 and 7.39±5.69 for the malignant SPNs (p=0.000). Positive correlation was found between the nodule diameter and risk for malignancy. A SUVmax value of 4 was found to have the best sensitivity and specificity.

CONCLUSION

PET/CT was shown to be an accurate method in the differential diagnosis of benign from malignant solitary pulmonary nodules.

Bronchopneumonia disguising lung metastases of a painless central chondrosarcoma of pubis

Chondrosarcoma is a generally locally malignant chondroid-forming bone tumor with a low potential for distant metastases. A small and completely painless central chondrosarcoma of pubis metastasizing to the lungs in a 63-year-old woman with bronchopneumonia is reported. Here we emphasize the mimicry and low growth of the chondrosarcoma and the easiness with which the diagnosis in completely asymptomatic patients can be missed. Although painless chondrosarcoma metastasizing to lung is rather rare, this tumor should be always included in the differential diagnosis of malignancies in this age category.

Decreased apoptosis despite severe CD4 depletion in the thymus of a human immunodeficiency virus-1 infected child

Thymic epithelial space (TES), where thymopoiesis is located, and thymic perivascular space (PVS), where T lymphocytes are pooled, appear differentially involved in human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1)-infected children. The decline of CD4+ T cells during HIV-1 infection is probably due to a relative predominance of CD4+ T cell destruction on cell proliferation. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) typically increases circulating CD4+ T cell counts, but it is debated whether ART reduces the destruction of existing CD4+ T cells or enhances the production of new cells. We report on postmortem flow-cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and terminal deoxynucleotide transferase (TdT)-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) studies performed on thymus of an 11-year-old vertically HIV-1 infected child receiving ART. Thymus tissue sections showed that CD4+ and CD8+ cells were more numerous in PVS than in TES (p=0.0334 for CD4+ cells, p<0.0001 for CD8+ cells). Thymus cell suspension showed that CD4+ CD8+ cells (immature thymocytes) were 15.4% (age-related control: 80.5%). Very few apoptotic CD4+ cells were seen in TES. Very low to absent proliferation activity was demonstrated in both TES and PVS. We suggest that 1) lymphocyte depletion in HIV-1 infection is more pronounced in TES than in PVS, 2) immature thymocytes are not enhanced, and 3) an anti-apoptotic effect in the thymus seems to be a potential ART mechanism to explain the CD4+ pool increase.

The expression of twisted gastrulation in postnatal mouse brain and functional implications

Twisted gastrulation (TWSG1), an extracellular regulator of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling, is critical for embryonic brain development. Mice deficient in TWSG1 have abnormal forebrain development manifesting as holoprosencephaly. The expression and potential roles of TWSG1 in postnatal brain development are less well understood. We show that Twsg1 is expressed in the adult mouse brain in the choroid plexus (CP), hippocampus, and other regions, with the strongest expression observed in CP. TWSG1 was also detected in a human fetal brain at mid-gestation, with highest levels in the epithelium of CP. Bmp1, Bmp2, Bmp4-Bmp7 as well as BmprIA and BmprII, but not BmprIB, were expressed in CP. BMP antagonists Chordin (Chrd) and Noggin were not detected in CP, however Chrd-like 1 and brain-specific Chrd-like (Brorin) were expressed. Electrophysiological study of synaptic plasticity revealed normal paired-pulse facilitation and long-term potentiation in the CA1 region of hippocampus in Twsg1(-/-) mice. Among the homozygous mutants that survive beyond the first 2 weeks, the prevalence of hydrocephalus was 4.3%, compared to 1.5% in a wild type colony (P=0.0133) between 3 and 10 weeks of life. We detected a high level of BMP signaling in CP in wild type adult mice that was 17-fold higher than in the hippocampus (P=0.005). In contrast, transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) signaling was predominant in the hippocampus. Both BMP signaling and the expression of BMP downstream targets Msx1 and Msx2 were reduced in CP in Twsg1(-/-) mice. In summary, we show that Twsg1 is expressed in the adult mouse and human fetal CP. We also show that BMP is a branch of TGFbeta superfamily that is dominant in CP. This presents an interesting avenue for future research in light of the novel roles of CP in neural progenitor differentiation and neuronal repair, especially since TWSG1 appears to be the main regulator of BMP present in CP.

Successful treatment of severe juvenile microscopic polyangiitis with rituximab

Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) previously called hypersensitivity angiitis is a systemic necrotizing vasculitis affecting predominantly small vessels. MPA involves multiple organ systems including the lung, the kidneys, the joints, and the skin. MPA mostly affects adults in their fourth and fifth decade of life. MPA and Wegener;s granulomatosis are grouped together as ANCA-associated vasculitis. MPA is associated with high titre of myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (MPO)-ANCA. We present a 14-year-old female patient presented with MPA. She was treated with steroids and cyclophosphamide. After the complication of severe lung involvement, rituximab was administered as immune-modulating treatment. The MPA came to remission. This is the first report of a pediatric patient with MPA treated with rituximab. Rituximab might be a potential therapeutic option for relapsing ANCA associated vasculitis in childhood.

The efficacy of second line chemotherapy (CHT) in platinum-sensitive advanced/metastatic small cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients: Results of an ongoing Italian multicenter survey

18090

Background: Despite CHT and radiotherapy for SCLC, most patients (pts) die within 2 years. Response rates for second-line CHT are low, with a median survival of 5 months in platinum-refractory pts. Re-challenge with platinum salts or salvage regimens is a standard option for pts with platinum-sensitive disease with a median overall survival (OS) of 6.5–8 months (Chua et al., Cancer Treat Rev. 2004). The purpose of this study was to explore the benefits of different second line regimens in this platiunum sensitive population. Methods: Clinical records of 73 platinum sensitive SCLC pts (first line relapse free survival > 6 months) were reviewed from 13 medical oncology departments in Italy from January 1993 to December 2006. Pt. characteristics: 59 males, 14 females, median age 64 years (range 27–93), median ECOG performance status (PS): 1, limited/extended disease: 33/40 pts. Pts received salvage chemotherapy which consisted of monotherapy in 37% and platinum-containing doublets in 55%. Doublets without platinum salts were administered in the remaining 8%. Results: Of 67 evaluable pt, second line CHT produced partial responses (PR) in 58 (79%) and stable disease (SD) in 9 pts (12%) by RECIST criteria. Overall tumor growth control (PR+SD) was 91%. Despite these encouraging results, the median TTP was 3 months and OS for all evaluable pts was 6.5 months. Survival at 1 year was 11%. Multivariate analysis revealed that the most important prognostic factor for response was age ( p<0.04) and there was no statistically significant difference between platinum-based regimens and monotherapy. Multivariate analysis showed no impact on survival by prior response to first line treatment, female sex or smoking status. Conclusions: Within the limits of a retrospective study, despite the high rate of responses obtainable in this setting, TTP and OS do not appear significantly improved by salvage regimens. Second line CHT has marginal activity and should be considered only in younger pts with a good PS. On the basis of these results, re-treatment with platinum salts could be avoided in these pts.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Fetal distribution of 5alpha-reductase 1 and 5alpha-reductase 2, and their input on human prostate development

PURPOSE

Human prostate development starts in the tenth week of gestation. Initial interactions between the epithelium and mesenchyma are stimulated by androgens. The transformation of circulating testosterone to 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone by tissue linked 5alpha-reductase is a key event in androgen metabolism. The 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone mediates androgen effects in the urogenital sinus and external genitalia, leading to the formation of a male phenotype and androgen mediated prostate growth. Supposedly 5alpha-reductase 2 is the predominant isoenzyme in human accessory sex tissue, whereas the function of 5alpha-reductase 1 remains unclear. We focused on the detection, distribution and effects of the 2 isoenzymes during gestation and infancy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Serial sections from fetuses and infants were immunostained using antibodies directed against 5alpha-reductase 1 and 2. Additionally, to detect the downstream products of androgen synthesis reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analyses were done for 17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase types 2, 3 and 7.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemistry revealed positive staining for each isoenzyme throughout fetal development. Moreover, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction for 5alpha-reductase 1 and 2 confirmed these findings on the transcription level. Additionally, the most relevant enzymatic downstream products of cellular androgen synthesis (17 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2, 3 and 7) were also detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge this is the first study revealing the expression and distribution of each 5alpha-reductase isoenzyme as well as the potential contribution of 5alpha-reductase 1 during fetal human prostate development.

Conjoined epigastric heteropagus twins: excision of a parasitic twin from the anterior abdominal wall of her sibling

Epigastric heteropagus twins (EHT) are an exceedingly rare form of asymmetric conjoined twins in whom the dependent twin (parasite) is attached to the right or left upper abdomen of the dominant part (autosite). Such a case observed at our institution with 34 month follow-up is presented here and the surgical technique described. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-supported surgical separation of the parasite with successful closure of the abdominal wall defect of the autosite was performed. Follow-up studies showed an autosite which was alive and in optimal health. A comprehensive review including data from English and non-English literature is presented.

First localization and biochemical identification of chromogranin B- and secretoneurin-like immunoreactivity in the fetal human vagal/nucleus solitary complex

The human vagal/nucleus solitary complex is a primary visceral relay station and an integrative brain stem area which displays a high density of chromogranin B- and secretoneurin-like immunoreactivity. In this study, we localized and biochemically identified these proteins during prenatal development. At prenatal week 11, 15, 20 and 37, we performed a chromatographic analysis to identify the molecular forms of PE-11, a peptide within the chromogranin B sequence, and secretoneurin, a peptide within secretogranin II. Their localization was studied with immunocytochemistry, and was compared to that of substance P which is well established as a functional neuropeptide in the vagal/nucleus solitary complex. At prenatal week 11, chromogranin B-, secretoneurin- and substance P-like immunoreactivities were detected consisting of varicosities, varicose fibers and single cells. At the same time, PE-11 and secretoneurin appeared as a single peak in chromatographic analysis. Prohormone convertases PC1- and PC2-like immunoreactivities were also present at week 11. In general, the density for each peptide increased during later fetal stages with the highest density at week 37. These results demonstrate that each chromogranin peptide is expressed during human fetal life in neurons of the vagal/nucleus solitary complex indicating that these peptides could be important during prenatal development.

Pregnancy outcomes in women with or without placental malaria infection

OBJECTIVE

To assess delivery outcomes in women with placental malaria who presented at public hospitals in Kisumu, a holoendemic region in western Kenya.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study using both histology and molecular biology was conducted with 90 consecutive pregnant women who presented at 3 hospitals during a 2-week period. Data collectors completed standardized questionnaires using each patient's hospital record and physical examination results, and registered birth indices such as weight, head circumference, and weight-head ratio. Malaria infection of the placenta was assessed using a molecular biology approach (for genomic differences among parasite species) as well as histology techniques. Of the 5 histologic classes of placental infection, class 1 corresponds to active infection and class 4 to past infection; class 2 and 3 to active chronic infection; and class 5 to uninfected individuals. Plasmodium species typing was determined by polymerase chain reaction amplification of the parasite's genome.

RESULTS

In newborns at term, low birth weight was directly associated with classes 2 and 4 of placental infection (P = 0.053 and P = 0.003, respectively), and differences in birth weight remained significant between the 5 classes (P < 0.001) even after adjusting for parity and mother's age. Plasmodium falciparum was the only detected parasite.

CONCLUSIONS

In Kisumu, infection with P. falciparum is an important cause of low birth weight and morbidity when it is associated with histologic classes 2 and 4 of placental infection. Moreover, polymerase chain reaction assays should be supported by ministries of health as an ancillary method of collecting data for malaria control during pregnancy and providing a baseline for future interventions.

DMBT1 expression and glycosylation during the adenoma-carcinoma sequence in colorectal cancer

The gene DMBT1 (deleted in malignant brain tumour-1) has been proposed to play a role in brain and epithelial cancer, but shows unusual features for a classical tumour-suppressor gene. On the one hand, DMBT1 has been linked to mucosal protection, whereas, on the other, it potentially plays a role in epithelial differentiation. Thus its function in a particular tissue is of mechanistic importance for its role in cancer. Because the former function requires secretion to the lumen and the latter function may depend on its presence in the extracellular matrix, we decided to investigate DMBT1 expression, location and its mode of secretion during malignant transformation in colorectal cancer. Using human colorectal PC/AA cell lines and tissue sections from individual patients, we have examined the expression of DMBT1 and its glycosylation in the adenoma-carcinoma sequence leading to the adenocarcinoma phenotype.

[Growth and differentiation factor 5 (GDF-5) composite improves the healing of necrosis of the femoral head in a sheep model. Analysis of an animal model]

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After creation of necrosis in 23 sheep, the composites were implanted in half of the animals. The animals were sacrificed 6 and 12 weeks after implantation and the femora were harvested. The specimens were investigated by microradiography, computed tomography, and histologically.

RESULTS

The GDF-5 composites were effective in the necrosis model. Osseous regeneration of the necrosis and the drill track were accelerated and enhanced by the composites. In treated animals the necrosis was nearly healed and the drill track was filled with bone after 12 weeks. In the control group the track was partially filled with fibrous tissue and necrotic lesions were still present. Specific side effects of the growth factor or the matrix were not documented. This was documented by histological scoring and CT investigation.

DISCUSSION

The application of an absorbable GDF-5 composite in combination with a core decompression procedure may enhance the healing of devitalized bone defects and is a promising approach for further studies.

Molecular pathology and genetics of congenital hepatorenal fibrocystic syndromes

The hepatorenal fibrocystic (HRFC) syndromes are a heterogeneous group of severe monogenic conditions that may be detected before birth. Commonly, HRFC syndromes present in the neonatal and paediatric age, with consistent developmental abnormalities mostly involving the liver and kidney. The changes include the proliferation and dilatation of epithelial ducts in these tissues with abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix. In this review, we examine the clinical features and differential diagnoses of this group of syndromes, including autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease (ARPKD), juvenile nephronophthisis (NPHP), Meckel-Gruber syndrome (MKS), Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS), and Jeune asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy (JATD). Extrahepatic manifestations include mostly bone and central nervous system abnormalities, dysmorphic features, and developmental delay. Previously, it has been suggested that ARPKD, JATD, and Ellis-van Creveld syndrome (EvC) may arise from defects in differentiation in a common developmental pathway. We review recent molecular advances in the recessive HRFC syndromes and discuss this hypothesis.

A new animal model of femoral head necrosis induced by intraosseous injection of ethanol

There is no reliable animal model of the early stages of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) for the evaluation of new therapeutic approaches. In this study, we propose a new animal model of femoral head osteonecrosis. Pure ethanol was injected into the centre of the femoral head in adult Merino sheep under fluoroscopic control. After 3, 6 and 12 weeks the animals were killed and the femoral heads were harvested. Microradiographic and histological changes were analysed and recorded. Partial necrosis was documented over a period of 12 weeks in all animals. The appearance of necrosis in combination with intact macrotexture, macrocirculation and joint cartilage is similar to the features described in early ONFH in humans. Due to its efficacy and its similarity to the early stages of ONFH in humans, this model may be suitable to evaluate new therapeutic techniques in the treatment of ONFH.

Hepatic failure with neonatal tissue siderosis of hemochromatotic type in an infant presenting with meconium ileus. Case report and differential diagnosis of the perinatal iron storage disorders

We report on a female preterm infant with hepatic failure and neonatal tissue siderosis of hemochromatotic type diagnosed by using both histochemistry and atomic absorption spectroscopy. The infant presented with meconium ileus, signs of rapidly progressive hepatic failure, and hyperferritinemia (7132 ng/ml). Despite surgery and intensive care the infant died 32 days after birth. Postmortem examination showed a wrinkled liver with extensive collapse of the hepatic architecture and regenerating nodules as well as hepatic and extrahepatic iron accumulation of hemochromatotic type, sparing the reticuloendothelial system. Atomic absorption spectroscopy confirmed an increase in the iron content of various organs: liver, heart, pancreas, oral salivary gland, kidney, and adrenal gland. The increase in the iron content of various organs was determined by comparing the analysis of the propositus with those of 5 gestationally age-related preterm infants who had died in the intensive care unit: 2 died of meconium aspiration syndrome, the other 3 of hyaline membrane disease, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and immaturity, respectively. We also compared the analysis of 15 fetuses having a a condition predisposing to iron accumulation (trisomy 21, trisomy 18, cytomegalovirus, amnion infection syndrome, Rhesus- and ABO-incompatibility, congenital hemolysis, anti-phospholipid syndrome, congenital heart disease). Delta F508, the most frequent mutation seen in cystic fibrosis patients, was excluded by gene sequencing. Different noxae causing iron accumulation in the neonatal period have led to the statement that neonatal hemochromatosis may collect different etiologies, such as metabolic disorders, infections, chromosomal aberrations, and immunological disorders. In this study, we report the singular evidence of neonatal iron accumulation of hemochromatotic type in an infant presenting with meconium ileus and propose a classification of the neonatal disorders associated with iron accumulation.

Perinatal hypophosphatasia: radiology, pathology and molecular biology studies in a family harboring a splicing mutation (648+1A) and a novel missense mutation (N400S) in the tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP) gene

We report on a postmortem diagnosis of perinatal lethal hypophosphatasia, an inborn error of metabolism characterized by a liver/bone/kidney alkaline phosphatase (ALP)-related defective bone mineralization due to mutations in the tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNSALP) gene. Radiological and pathological studies identified a perinatal lethal hypophosphatasia showing a generalized bone mineralization defect including asymmetry of the cervical vertebral arches in a 22 +4 weeks' gestation fetus. Both parents revealed low serum ALP activities supporting the diagnosis. Sequencing analysis of the TNSALP gene showed two heterozygous mutations, 648+1A, a mutation affecting the donor splice site in exon 6, and N400S, a novel missense mutation in exon 11, located near the active site and very close to histidins 364 and 437, two crucial residues of the active site. Sequencing of exons 6 and 11 in the parents showed that 648+1A was from maternal origin and N400S from paternal origin. DNA-based prenatal testing in the subsequent pregnancy following a chorionic villous sampling performed at 10 weeks of gestation showed no mutation and a healthy infant was born at term.

Prenatal diagnosis and fetal pathology in a Turkish family harboring a novel nonsense mutation in the lysosomal alpha-N-acetyl-neuraminidase (sialidase) gene

We report a Turkish family with parental consanguinity and at risk for sialidosis type II, an inherited autosomal recessive disorder caused by lysosomal alpha-N-acetyl-neuraminidase (sialidase, NEU1) deficiency. The proband was a premature male infant that presented with hydrops, hepatomegaly, respiratory distress syndrome, and anemia and that died of respiratory insufficiency 2 months after birth despite intensive care. An abnormally increased [14C]methylamine incorporation and an isolated deficiency of lysosomal alpha-N-acetyl-neuraminidase were found in cultured skin fibroblasts. A previous pregnancy of the mother terminated in a spontaneous abortion in the 13th week of gestation. A successive pregnancy showed hydrops fetalis, and an enzymatic assay of cultured amniotic fluid cells indicated a deficiency of alpha-N-acetyl-neuraminidase. Following pregnancy termination at 20 weeks gestation, light microscopy of fetal tissues revealed classic vacuolation not only in liver, bone marrow, brain, and kidney, but also in endocrine organs such as the thyroid gland, adrenal gland, hypophysis, and testes, and in the thymus. DNA analysis of the family showed that both the proband and the third sibling had a novel homozygous nonsense point mutation at nucleotide 87 in exon 1 of the alpha-N-acetyl-neuraminidase (neu1) gene causing a substitution of tryptophan at codon 29 by a termination codon (W29X). DNA sequencing of polymerase chain reaction products identified the parents as heterozygous carriers. To detect neu1 mRNA expression, a real-time reverse transcription/polymerase chain reaction was performed, and similar rates of neu1 mRNA expression were found in the fibroblasts of the fetus, the 2nd sibling, and in controls. The very early termination codon with complete loss of neuraminidase activity is probably the molecular basis of the unusually severe vacuolation pattern in this form of congenital sialidosis.

Restrictive dermopathy: case report, subject review with Kaplan-Meier analysis, and differential diagnosis of the lethal congenital contractural syndromes

We report on a 34-week-old infant with restrictive dermopathy (RD), a rare lethal genodermatosis, characterized by an abnormal skin growth and differentiation with thin, tightly adherent skin that causes a dysmorphic face, generalized flexion joint contractures, and respiratory insufficiency. Kaplan-Meier analysis of 32 previously well-described infants affected with RD showed a median survival of 132 hours. Lethal congenital contractural syndromes, including Pena-Shokeir phenotype, cerebro-oculo facio-skeletal syndrome, and lethal multiple pterygium syndrome, should be considered first in the differential diagnosis. Other lethal contractural syndromes are discussed.

Accessory liver in an infant with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Incidence of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) ranges from 1 in 2,400 to one in 5,000 live births. Associated anomalies in CDH are approximately 30% to 35%. The authors report on an infant with CDH and an accessory supradiaphragmatic liver with separate vascularization from the thoracic aorta. The pathogenesis of this malformation is discussed. The postoperative course and the follow-up of the child over 5 years was completely uneventful.

Mapping a method for systematically reviewing the medical literature: a helpful checklist postmortem protocol of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-related pathology in childhood

INTRODUCTION

Since the first description of two children affected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), various diagnostic procedures have been established. However, the morphologic study of biopsy and autopsy material from children with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is still of fundamental importance. The morphology has contributed remarkably to the progress in understanding the pathogenesis of the primary tissue lesions and of the sequelae directly or indirectly associated with HIV infection. The aim of this study was to evaluate the HIV pathology in pediatric AIDS (PAIDS) through a systematic review of the English-language literature and to draw up a practical checklist protocol for the postmortem.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on HIV pathology in childhood was retrieved from a MEDLINE search (January 1994-January 2001) of the original reports and bibliographic article reviews published in English. Citations from papers retrieved were screened and retrieved papers were evaluated.

RESULTS

Based on the screened data, we propose a practical, organ-oriented checklist protocol for the postmortem according to the HIV pathogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence-based medicine is a paradigm now exerting increasing influence in related fields such as surgery, general practice, psychiatry, and pathology. This article is a summary of the literature on PAIDS pathology. The protocol that we propose is particularly useful for pediatric pathology programs and for electronic data processing.

Ellis-van Creveld syndrome: a generalized dysplasia of enchondral ossification

We report a 25-week fetus with lethal Ellis-van Creveld syndrome who was diagnosed prenatally from the US detection of a narrow chest, postaxial polydactyly of the hands, short acro-/mesomelic limbs and a ventricular septal defect. The postnatal radiographic features of the skeleton confirmed the diagnosis. Literature review of the histopathology of the physeal growth plate is contradictory, varying between retardation of the hypertrophic chondrocytes without disorganization and marked disorganization of the proliferating chondrocytes. We investigated numerous sites of the enchondral ossification and observed retardation of the physeal growth plate in all sites and retardation with pronounced disorganization of the physeal growth plate in the upper mesomelic bone segments only. These data support the concept that Ellis-van Creveld syndrome is mainly a generalized disorder of the maturation of enchondral ossification.

Occult thyroid pathology in a child with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. Case report and review of the drug-related pathology in pediatric acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

A 11-year-old boy with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AaS), Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection and long-term antiviral treatment suffered from a disorder of contractility of the left ventricle of the heart. Following severe unmanageable vomiting, the patient died and the postmortem examination showed marked involution of the lymphatic system, multiple foci of fibrosis of both ventricles of the heart, and regressive changes of the thyroid gland. Biochemical values of the thyroid gland function were, however, not altered. Neither human immunodeficiency virus-related p24 antigen, nor VZV DNA sequences were found in the thyroid gland. Regressive changes of the thyroid gland can probably occur before its function fails. By analyzing the possible etiologies, the endocrine toxicity of a long-term antiviral treatment should be taken into account.