Transcriptome Changes in Glioma Cells Cultivated under Conditions of Neurosphere Formation

Glioma is the most common and heterogeneous primary brain tumor. The development of a new relevant preclinical models is necessary. As research moves from cultures of adherent gliomas to a more relevant model, neurospheres, it is necessary to understand the changes that cells undergo at the transcriptome level. In the present work, we used three patient-derived gliomas and two immortalized glioblastomas, while their cultivation was carried out under adherent culture and neurosphere (NS) conditions. When comparing the transcriptomes of monolayer (ML) and NS cell cultures, we used Enrichr genes sets enrichment analysis to describe transcription factors (TFs) and the pathways involved in the formation of glioma NS. It was observed that NS formation is accompanied by the activation of five common gliomas of TFs, SOX2, UBTF, NFE2L2, TCF3 and STAT3. The sets of transcripts controlled by TFs MYC and MAX were suppressed in NS. Upregulated genes are involved in the processes of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, cancer stemness, invasion and migration of glioma cells. However, MYC/MAX-dependent downregulated genes are involved in translation, focal adhesion and apical junction. Furthermore, we found three EGFR and FGFR signaling feedback regulators common to all analyzed gliomas-SPRY4, ERRFI1, and RAB31-which can be used for creating new therapeutic strategies of suppressing the invasion and progression of gliomas.

[The effect of the use of the drug recognan (citicoline) on the state of higher mental functions in patients with mild cognitive impairment]

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the observational program was to study the effect of the use of the drug recognan (citicoline) on the state of higher mental functions (memory, attention, visual-motor coordination, dynamic praxis,verbal thinking and imagination) in patients with mild cognitive impairment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A survey of 54 subjects (16 of them male and 38 female) aged 18-50 years (average age 28.5±10.5 years) was conducted with a diagnosis of «Mild cognitive impairment» («F06.7»). The group was randomized into 2 subgroups: the main subgroup (26 people) received oral therapy with the drug Recognan, for 30 days, with the daily dosage of the drug being 500 mg. In the control group (28 people), nootropic drug therapy was not performed. Standard psychometric techniques were used to study higher mental functions. All subjects were examined three times (initially, in the middle of the study - on day 15, at the end of the study - on day 30).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

After 2 weeks of treatment with recognan, there was an improvement in concentration in 81.9%, memory in 50% (p=0.008), verbal imagination productivity in 68.2% (p=0.015), counting functions in 60% (p=0.015), visual-motor coordination and dynamic praxis - in 86.4% (p=0.003), increased speed and efficiency of mental work (p=0.001). After a 30-day course of treatment with recognan, there was an improvement in memory in 58.3% of patients (p=0.007), an increase in concentration in 64%, an improvement in counting functions in 64.3% (p=0.011), verbal imagination productivity in 63.3%, visual-motor coordination and dynamic praxis in 86.4% (p=0.007), speed and efficiency of mental work (p=0.006), which indicates a complex positive effect of recognan on higher mental functions in patients with mild cognitive impairment cognitive impairment.

[The influence of the drug recognan (citicoline) on neurodynamic characteristics of mental activity in patients with mild cognitive impairment]

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to study the effect of the drug recognan (citicoline) on the neurodynamic characteristics of mental activity in patients with mild cognitive impairment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A survey of 58 subjects (17 of them male and 41 female) aged 18-45 years (average age 27.2±12.5 years) was conducted. Clinical diagnosis according to ICD-10 «Mild cognitive impairment» (F06.7). The main subgroup included29 people received oral recognan therapy (in solution, 100 mg in 1 ml) for 30 days, with a daily dosage of 500 mg (5 ml of solution). In the control group (29 people) drug therapy was not performed. Tests were used: «Graphic sample», the sample on the reciprocal coordination of the hands (Ozeretsky test), test for the compression of fingers, the test «number series». The follow-up period was 30 days. All subjects were examined three times (initially, in the middle of the study - on day 15, at the end of the study - on day 30).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

The results obtained showed that the use of the drug recognan (citicoline) has a positive effect on the indicators of visual-motor coordination and spatial representations, neurodynamic characteristics of movement, and cognitive functions. After a 2-week treatment with recognan improved graphical sample, 84% of patients, with reliable improvement according to the Wilcoxon (p=0.0002), the sample in the compression of the fingers 60%, as well as coordination 60%, the accounting functions in 44%. After a month (30 day) treatment course recomanem there was an increase in indices of samples for the compression of fingers in 71.4% of patients, with significant improvement (p=0.0499) and run the graphical samples of 71.4%, coordination at 46.4%, counting functions - 48% patients.

[Features of positive personality phenomena in patients with mild cognitive impairment and asthenic syndrome treated with recognan (citicoline)]

AIM

To assess the formation of positive personality phenomena in patients with mild cognitive impairment and asthenic syndrome during the treatment with recognan (citicoline).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-eight patients (17 men and 21 women), aged 18 to 45 years (mean age 27.8±12.1 years), with asthenic syndrome with mild cognitive impairment (ICD-10 F06.7) were examined. Patients were divided into two groups: 20 people in the main group and 18 people in the comparison group. The main group received recognan (orally, in solution, 100 mg in 1 ml) for 30 days, the daily dosage of the drug was 0.5 g (5 ml solution). The comparison group did not receive any medications. Adapted methods of positive personality psychology were used: the Fordyce Emotions Questionnaire, the Subjective Happiness Scale (SHS), the Adult Hope Scale (AHS), the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), M. Atkinson's Scale of Emotional Maturity, the projective technique 'Map of experiences'. The follow-up period was 30 days. All subjects were examined three times (at baseline, 15 and 30 days after treatment).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

After a month of treatment with recognan, there was an improvement of positive personality traits and a significant decrease in negative experiences, indicating the positive impact of the drug on the formation of positive personality manifestations and compensation for emotional disorders in patients with mild cognitive impairment and asthenic syndrome.

Are Small Nucleolar RNAs "CRISPRable"? A Report on Box C/D Small Nucleolar RNA Editing in Human Cells

CRISPR technologies are nowadays widely used for targeted knockout of numerous protein-coding genes and for the study of various processes and metabolic pathways in human cells. Most attention in the genome editing field is now focused on the cleavage of protein-coding genes or genes encoding long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), while the studies on targeted knockout of intron-encoded regulatory RNAs are sparse. Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs) present a class of non-coding RNAs encoded within the introns of various host genes and involved in post-transcriptional maturation of ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) in eukaryotic cells. Box C/D snoRNAs direct 2'-O-methylation of rRNA nucleotides. These short RNAs have specific elements in their structure, namely, boxes C and D, and a target-recognizing region. Here, we present the study devoted to CRISPR/Cas9-mediated editing of box C/D snoRNA genes in Gas5. We obtained monoclonal cell lines carrying mutations in snoRNA genes and analyzed the levels of the mutant box C/D snoRNA as well as the 2'-O-methylation status of the target rRNA nucleotide in the obtained cells. Mutations in SNORD75 in the obtained monoclonal cell line were shown to result in aberrant splicing of Gas5 with exclusion of exons 3 to 5, which was confirmed by RT-PCR and RNA-Seq. The obtained results suggest that SNORD75 contains an element for binding of some factors regulating maturation of Gas5 pre-lncRNA. We suggest that METTL3/METTL14 is among such factors, and m⁶A-methylation pathways are involved in regulation of Gas5 splicing. Our results shell light on the role of SNORDs in regulating splicing of the host gene.

[Current treatment options for autonomic, cognitive and emotional disorders in patients with asthenic syndrome treated with recognan (citicoline)]

AIM

To study the efficacy of recognan (citicoline) in the treatment of cognitive, emotional, autonomic, asthenic disorders in patients with asthenic syndrome.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Thirty-eight subjects (17 men and 41 women), mean age 27.75±12.05 years, with asthenic syndrome (ICD-10 F48.0 - Neurasthenia) were studied. The sample was randomized into 2 subgroups: the main group (n=20) received oral therapy with recognan (100 mg in 1 ml) for 30 days, while the daily dosage was 500 mg (5 ml). In the control group (n=18), no drug therapy was performed. Patient's state was assessed with a large battery of psychological tests and psychometric scales. The follow-up period was 30 days. All participants were examined three times (initially, in the middle of the study (day 15), in the end of the study (day 30)).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Asthenic syndrome was detected in 100% of the patients (total asthenia was noted in 70%, decreased activity in 70%, decreased motivation in 40%, physical asthenia in 45%, mental asthenia in 50%). Recognan (citicoline), used for 2 weeks or one month, has a positive effect on the compensation of autonomic, asthenic cognitive and emotional disorders and increases stress resilience of the patients.

[Cognitive and emotional disorders in university students and teachers: the possibility of treatment with recognan (citicoline)]

AIM

To study the efficacy of recognan (citicoline) in treatment of cognitive, emotional, autonomic, asthenic disorders in university students and teachers.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty-eight subjects (17 men and 41 women), mean age 27.75±12.05 years, including who 42 students and 16 teachers were studied. The sample was randomized into 2 groups (29 each): the main sub-group received oral therapy with recognan for 30 days, while the daily dosage was 500 mg (5 ml). In the control group, no drug therapy was performed. Patient's state was assessed with a large battery of psychological tests and psychometric scales. The follow-up period was 30 days. All participants were examined three times (initially, in the middle of the study (day 15), in the end of the study (day 30)).

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Asthenic state was detected in 69%, autonomic dysfunction in 82.7%, sleep disorders in 75.8% of subjects. A high level of state anxiety was revealed in 22.2%, trait anxiety in 29.8%, a high level of stress was determined in 6,9%. It is shown that the use of recognan (citicoline) has a positive effect on compensation of autonomic and asthenic disorders, improves cognitive status, corrects psycho-emotional disorders, when used as a short (2 week) and month course.

Characterization of primary normal and malignant breast cancer cell and their response to chemotherapy and immunostimulatory agents

Background

The phenomenon of chemotherapy-resistant cancers has necessitated the development of new therapeutics as well as the identification of specific prognostic markers to predict the response to novel drugs. Primary cancer cells provide a model to study the multiplicity of tumourigenic transformation, to investigate alterations of the cellular response to various molecular stimuli, and to test therapeutics for cancer treatment.

Methods

Here, we developed primary cultures of human breast tissue – normal cells (BN1), cancer cells (BC5), and cells from a chemotherapy-treated tumour (BrCCh1) to compare their response to conventional chemotherapeutics and to innate immunity stimulators with that of the immortalized breast cells MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and MCF10A. Expression of the progesterone receptor (PGR), oestrogen receptor (ER) α and β, human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER) 2 and 3 and aromatase CYP19, as well as expression of interferon-induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 3 (IFIT3) mRNA in human breast cells were characterized.

Results

We revealed that BC5 carcinoma cells were PGR^low/ERb^high/ERa⁻/Cyp19⁺, the BrCCh1 cells that originated from the recurrent tumour were PGR⁻/ERb⁺/ERa⁻/Cyp19⁺, and normal BN cells were PGR⁻/ERb⁺/ERa⁻/Cyp19^high. The treatment of primary culture cells with antitumour therapeutics revealed that BrCCh1 cells were doxorubicine-resistant and sensitive to cisplatin. BC5 cells exhibited low sensitivity to tamoxifen and cisplatin. The innate immunity activators interferon-α and an artificial small nucleolar RNA analogue increased expression of IFIT3 at different levels in primary cells and in the immortalized breast cells MCF7, MDA-MB-231, and MCF10A. The relative level of activation of IFIT3 expression was inversely correlated with the baseline level of IFIT3 mRNA expression in breast cell lines.

Conclusion

Our data demonstrated that primary cancer cells are a useful model for the development of novel cancer treatments. Our findings suggest that expression of IFIT3 mRNA can be used as a prognostic marker of breast cancer cell sensitivity to immunostimulating therapeutics.

Modern Approaches for Identification of Modified Nucleotides in RNA

This review considers approaches for detection of modified monomers in the RNA structure of living organisms. Recently, some data on dynamic alterations in the pool of modifications of the key RNA species that depend on external factors affecting the cells and physiological conditions of the whole organism have been accumulated. The recent studies have presented experimental data on relationship between the mechanisms of formation of modified/minor nucleotides of RNA in mammalian cells and the development of various pathologies. The development of novel methods for detection of chemical modifications of RNA nucleotides in the cells of living organisms and accumulation of knowledge on the contribution of modified monomers to metabolism and functioning of individual RNA species establish the basis for creation of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. This review includes a short description of routine methods for determination of modified nucleotides in RNA and considers in detail modern approaches that enable not only detection but also quantitative assessment of the modification level of various nucleotides in individual RNA species.

[Laparoscopic transperitoneal adrenalectomy]

AIM

To analyze the results of laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LAE) in patients with adrenal gland tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From 2011 to 2016, 24 patients (15 men, 9 women), mean age 49.6 +/- 8.2 years, underwent LAE. The right, left and bilateral LAE was performed in 12, 10 and 2 patients, respectively. Indications for surgery were mainly primary and metastatic adrenal tumors. The operations were performed using a transperitoneal 4-port approach.

RESULTS

Twenty six LAE were successfully performed in 24 patients. There were no conversions. Blood transfusion was used only in 1 patient, who had a history of the laparoscopic left nephrectomy for the renal cell carcinoma 2 years earlier. She had bleeding due to a spleen injury during the left LAE. She also developed acute postoperative pancreatitis, resolved by conservative therapy. The mean intra- and postoperative blood loss was 160 (120-750) ml, the operative time was 135 (100-205) min, and the length of hospital stay was 4 (3-5) days. Histological examination revealed adenocarcinoma and adenoma in 20 (73.1%) and 6 (26.9%) removed adrenal glands, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is an effective and safe surgical modality to treat patients with adrenal tumors.

[Immunogenicity of recombinant analog of antitumor protein lactaptin]

Therapeutic monoclonal antibodies and recombinant proteins including cytokines are commonly used in the treatment of cancer and inflammatory diseases. In most cases, these protein-based drugs exhibit a high therapeutic efficacy, which is unfortunately frequently associated with a variety of side effects. We have investigated the in vitro and in vivo immunogenicity of recombinant antitumor protein lactaptin (RL2). Based on the qRT-PCR analysis, we have shown that, in MDA-MB-231 human breast adenocarcinoma cells, RL2 suppresses the NF-kB signaling cascade that regulates the reactions of innate immunity. RL2 inhibits the expression of the CXCL1 protein and apoptosis inhibitor A20 and enhances expression of IkB, NF-kB repressor. The ELISA method has been used to evaluate the antibody titer in the blood of mice, which received single and triple intravenous or intraperitoneal injections of RL2. The multiplex immunoassay of 23 cytokines in the mice blood has shown that the RL2 injections lead to a slight increase in the levels of systemic pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-5 (IL-5) and keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC), a homologue of human macrophage inflammatory protein-1 (MIP-1). These observations indicate the low immunogenicity of the recombinant lactaptin analog, which can be considered to be a potential molecular drug candidate for further clinical development.

Sensitivity of endometrial cancer cells from primary human tumor samples to new potential anticancer peptide lactaptin

PURPOSE

Endometrial carcinoma is the most common gynecologic malignancy which is associated with a poor prognosis when diagnosed at an advanced stage; therefore, the discovery of efficacious new drugs is required to reinforce conventional chemotherapy. Short-term cultures of primary cells from endometrial tumors could be used for testing new anticancer therapeutics as well as for the development of personalized cancer therapy strategy. Here, the antitumor effect of a recombinant analogue of lactaptin (RL2), a new potential anticancer molecule, was examined against primary human endometrial cancer cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Primary cell cultures of malignant and normal human endometrium were performed by enzymatic digestion of endometrial tissue from biopsy material. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to determine the messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) state of estrogen (ERs) and progesterone (PRs) hormone receptors and aromatase (Cyp 19) in cell cultures. Dynamic monitoring of cell adhesion and proliferation was made using the iCELLigence system (ASEA Biosciences). The sensitivity of cell cultures to conventional anticancer drugs and the lactaptin analog was estimated by 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, flow cytometry, and the iCELLligence system.

RESULTS

Established short-term primary cultures of endometrial cancer cells were ERα/ERβ/PR-positive and sensitive for RL2. The IC 50 values of doxorubicin and cisplatin were determined for all of the primary cultures designed. KE normal cells displaying low Cyp19 mRNA levels and high ERβ and PR mRNA levels were more resistant to RL2 treatment as well as to cisplatin and doxorubicin.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that the recombinant analog of lactaptin, RL2, exerts cytotoxic effects against primary hormone-dependent endometrial tumor cells in vitro with features of apoptosis.

[The influence of recombinant nucleophosmin 1 on artificial RNA internalization into human adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells]

In this study we obtained and characterized the recombinant analogue of multifunctional nucleolar phosphoprotein nucleophosmin 1 (NPM1) involved in crucial cellular processes such as transcription, reparation and mitosis. The influence ofnucleophosmin 1 on extrcellular RNAs accumulation in human adenocarcinoma cells MCF-7 was analyzed. It was found that incubation of AluY RNA (n > 300 nt), U24 snoRNA analogues (n ~ 80 nt) with Npm1-His6 resulted in RNA-protein non-covalent complexes formation, but not in case of the short oligoribonucleotide (n = 22 nt). It was shown that interaction of AluY RNA analogue with Npm1-His6 significantly increases transfection efficacy of the RNA into MCF-7 human cells. Altogether, these data allow us to conclude, that nucleophosmin 1 not only binds RNA with complex secondary structure, but also promotes uptake and internalization of such RNA by human cells.

[Renal revascularization and long-term cardiovascular survival of patients with atherosclerotic renovascular disease]

The prospective investigation of 185 patients (118 men and 67 women in the age of 35-79 years (on the average 60+/-9 years) with atherosclerotic renovascular disease was carried out. The disease was detected by one- (62%) and two- (38%) hemodynamic value (>50%) of renal artery stenosis. Renal function, arterial pressure, cardiovascular death cases were estimated in 4 groups of patients during the period of 2,5-126 months (on the average 33 months). The patients of the first group (n=103) were undergone the renal revascularization (51 open and 80 endovascular). The patients of the second group (n=20) were after combined open renal revascularization (25) and after performed reconstruction of abdominal aorta and its branches and lower extremities arteries concerning aneurysmatic and occlusive lesions. The patients of the third group (n=19) had only reconstruction of lower extremities arteries concerning their ischemia without renal revascularization. The patients of the fourth group (n=43) haven't been operated because of the refusal of intervention. The lowest rate of survival was in the fourth group, who used the conservative therapy. Long-term survival didn't differ after open and endovascular therapy. The Koks regression analysis showed, that the improvement of long-term survival of the patients was associated with renal revascularization [Exp(B)=0,25, p<0,001] and didn't depend on the method of renal arteries reconstruction. A strategy of careful selection of patients with the application of interdisciplinary approach should be the base of clinical practice in renovascular disease.

[The analysis of biochemical markers of MCF-7 cells apoptosis induced by recombinant analog of lactaptin]

Earlier we isolated and characterized human milk pro-apoptotic peptide - lactaptin and generated its engineered analog - RL2. It was shown that both lactaptin and RL2 are capable to induce apoptotic death of MCF-7 cells. In this report we have analyzed biochemical markers of RL2 induced MCF-7 apoptosis. The activation of initiator and effector caspases as well as mitochondrial membrane potential and cytoplasm membrane changes were analyzed using flow cytometry and Western-blot methods. We have found that RL2 induced apoptotic death of MCF-7 cells was accompanied by PS exposure on the plasma membrane surface. It also was shown that RL2 has induced dissipation of mitochondrial membrane potential and resulted in activation of initiator caspases 8, 9 and effector caspase 7.

A novel pro-apoptotic effector lactaptin inhibits tumor growth in mice models

Lactaptin, a human milk-derived protein, induces apoptosis in cultured tumor cells. We designed a recombinant analog of lactaptin (RL2) and tested its antitumor activity. The sensitivity of hepatocarcinoma A-1 (HA-1), Lewis lung carcinoma, and Ehrlich carcinoma to RL2 were tested to determine the most reliable in vitro animal model. HA-1 cells, which had the highest sensitivity to RL2, were transplanted into A/Sn mice to investigate RL2 antitumor activity in vivo. Investigation of the molecular effects of RL2 shows that RL2 induces apoptotic transformation of HA-1 cells in vitro: phosphatidylserine translocation from inner side of the lipid bilayer to the outer one and dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential. Repetitive injections of RL2 (5-50 mg/kg) for 3-5 days effectively inhibited ascites and solid tumor transplant growth when administered intravenously or intraperitoneally, without obvious side effects. The solid tumor inhibitory effect of RL2 (5 i.v. injections, cumulative dose 125 mg/kg) was comparable with that of cyclophosphamide at a therapeutic dose (5 i.v. injections, cumulative dose 150 mg/kg). In combination therapy with cyclophosphamide, RL2 had an additive antitumor effect for ascites-producing tumors. Histomorphometric analysis indicated a three-fold reduction of spontaneous metastases in the liver of RL2-treated mice with solid tumor transplants in comparison with control animals. Repeated RL2 treatment substantially prolonged the lifespan of mice with intravenously injected tumor cells. Recombinant analog of lactaptin effectively induced apoptosis of tumor cells in vitro and suppressed the growth of sensitive tumors and metastases in vivo.

[Results of combined reconstructions of the renal arteries, abdominal aorta and its other branches in patients with atherosclerosis]

A comparative analysis was made of clinical indices and long-term survival in 20 patients (13 men and 7 women of mean age 62 +/- 2 years), having multifocal atherosclerosis of the renal arteries (RA), abdominal aorta and arteries of lower extremities (LE) (11 aneurysms, 7 occlusive lesions of the aorta and 3 of its unpaired branches) who underwent combined reconstructions, with patients having similar lesions, but not operated (12) or operated only on RA or on the arteries of LE (45). The groups of patients had no great differences except more pronounced renal dysfunction (RD) in the first of them. In spite of high postoperative lethality (20%) mainly due to acute renal failure (3), long-term survival proved to be significantly higher (14 from 16), than in not operated (3 from 12) (p = 0.00001) and had better tendency than in those operated on the same basin (35 from 45). In addition, the patients after combined operations had substantially decreased systolic and diastolic arterial pressure (159 +/- 13 vs. 132 +/- 9, p = 0.00001; 91 +/- 5 vs. 83 +/- 7, p = 0.010) and also stabilized renal function.

[Novel method for activation of the locomotor circuitry in human]

We examine the possibility for activation of the involuntary locomotion of the lower limbs by spinal electromagnetic stimulation (ES). The subject laid on the left side. The legs are supported in a gravity-neutral position by special mounting that to provide horizontal rotation in the hip, knee and ankle. ES (3 Hz and 1.56 Tesla) at the T11,-T12 vertebrae induced involuntary locomotor-like movements in the legs. The latency from the initiation of ES to the first EMG burst compoused 0.68 +/- 1.0 s and it shortened at increasing of the frequency ES from 3 Hz to 20 Hz. Thus, the spinal ES can unduce the activation of the locomotor movements in human.

Radionuclide transfer to reptiles

Reptiles are an important, and often protected, component of many ecosystems but have rarely been fully considered within ecological risk assessments (ERA) due to a paucity of data on contaminant uptake and effects. This paper presents a meta-analysis of literature-derived environmental media (soil and water) to whole-body concentration ratios (CRs) for predicting the transfer of 35 elements (Am, As, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Ce, Cm, Co, Cr, Cs, Cu, Fe, Hg, K, La, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, Pb, Po, Pu, Ra, Rb, Sb, Se, Sr, Th, U, V, Y, Zn, Zr) to reptiles in freshwater ecosystems and 15 elements (Am, C, Cs, Cu, K, Mn, Ni, Pb, Po, Pu, Sr, Tc, Th, U, Zn) to reptiles in terrestrial ecosystems. These reptile CRs are compared with CRs for other vertebrate groups. Tissue distribution data are also presented along with data on the fractional mass of bone, kidney, liver and muscle in reptiles. Although the data were originally collected for use in radiation dose assessments, many of the CR data presented in this paper will also be useful for chemical ERA and for the assessments of dietary transfer in humans for whom reptiles constitute an important component of the diet, such as in Australian aboriginal communities.

Recombinant analogs of a novel milk pro-apoptotic peptide, lactaptin, and their effect on cultured human cells

We recently isolated and characterized a human milk peptide, lactaptin, which induced apoptosis of cultured human MCF-7 cells. Lactaptin was identified as a proteolytic fragment of human kappa-casein. Here, we generated two recombinant analogs of the peptide, RL1 and RL2, containing truncated and complete amino acid sequences of lactaptin, respectively. Analogs were produced in E.coli, purified and assayed for biological activity on cultured human MCF-7 cells. RL1 was shown to induce only a small decrease in cell viability, whereas RL2 lowered the viability of MCF-7 cells by 60%. This reduction in MCF-7 cell viability was associated with apoptosis, which was indicated by phosphatidilserine externalization and caspase-7 activation. The viability of A549 and Hep-2 cells was also reduced by RL2, albeit to a lesser degree than seen with MCF-7 cells; this reduced viability was not accompanied by apoptosis. Non-malignant human mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) were completely resistant to RL2 action.

[Surgical treatment of fibromuscular dysplasia of renal arteries in adults]

The authors have analyzed an experience with treatment of 16 patients. All the patients had renovascular hypertension (RVH) and 3 of them had renal dysfunction. Revascularization of the kidneys (RK) was fulfilled in 11 patients by shunting (9) or prosthesis (2) of the renal arteries. In 7 patients percutaneous endovascular angioplasty (PEA) was used. There were neither complications nor lethal outcomes. Arterial pressure normalized in 7 patients and in 9 RVH was better. In the long-term period (at the average within 21 months) 14 patients were followed-up. In 3 patients having perimedial and intimal fibroplasty of RA after PEA restenoses were diagnosed. They had repeated RK. Renal function became better in 1 patient, in 2 patients there was no substantial dynamics. All shunts were passable. The analysis of the data has shown that liquidation of RVH in patients with FMD of RA has inverse dependence on its duration, and decision on the method of RK depends on the type of RA, experience of the specialists, the patients desire included.

[Rationale for using essential phospholipids in chronic diseases of the liver: the dynamics of electric and viscoelastic parameters of erythrocytes]

Under supervision there were 38 men (age from 36 till 57 years) with diffuse hepatic diseases (DHD) in stadia of hepatitis, 27--in dynamics of treatment of essential phospholipids. Is experimentally established: structure-functional erythrocyte characteristics by methods of dielectrophoresis, thin-layer chromatography correlate with lipid and phospholipid composition of red cell membranes. The low level of phospholipids in erythrocyte membranes and direction of changes in their fractional composition in the DHD is the basis for the use of essential phospholipids. Against the background of therapy noted a significant increase in amplitude of deformation, polarizability, capacity, speed of movement of red blood cells to the electrodes and lower levels of generalized indicators of viscosity, rigidity, electrical conductivity, index of aggregation and destruction.

[Percutaneous angioplasty and stenting in treatment of chronic occlusions of renal arteries]

The article presents results of examination and treatment of 14 patients aged from 46 through 79 years with chronic occlusion of one of the renal arteries in each of them and subocclusion of the contralateral renal artery in 13 patients due to atherosclerosis. At first percutaneous intraluminal angioplasty and stenting were performed in 13 out of 14 patients with stenosis of the renal artery. Then at once only percutaneous intraluminal angioplasty of the occlused renal artery was performed in 10 out of 14 patients and within 36 hours on average the implantation of stents in case of patency of the renal artery proper and its branches, according to the findings of control angiography, in these arteries with the optimal result. The percutaneous intraluminal angioplasty and stenting are relatively safe and effective methods of reestablishment of patency of the renal arteries after their chronic occlusion.

Deamination of adenosines in extracellular RNA spontaneously internalized by human cells

Ribonucleic acids circulating in mammalian extracellular fluids as well as RNAs accumulating in culture medium condensed by mammalian cells are internalized by acceptor cells and distributed among cellular compartments. The internalized RNA can be involved in the induction and regulation of cellular processes as guide or signaling molecules. The internalization of RNA may be accompanied by covalent modifications influencing the stability and functionality of this RNA. To analyze nucleotide modifications introduced by human cells in internalized extracellular RNA, 5.8S rRNA of S. cerevisiae was used. It was shown that 5.8S rRNA of S. cerevisiae is captured by human adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells from culture medium and delivered to cytoplasm and nuclei. Most of the internalized RNA was hydrolyzed to mono- and oligonucleotides. Full-length RNA uptake was detected by RT-PCR in the cytoplasm and in nuclei after the pulse addition of RNA to the culture medium. 5'-Inosine was the only detectable modified nucleotide in the hydrolysate of cell-internalized RNAs. Consequently, extracellular RNAs entering human cells were subjected to partial adenosine deamination. Sequencing of cDNA confirmed that full-length extracellular RNA that accumulated in the nucleus, but not in the cytoplasm, was partially edited by adenosine deaminases. The deamination revealed in nuclear-stored, full-length RNA was site-specific. Adenosines edited in S. cerevisiae 5.8S rRNA are stack-closing A-U pairs A53 and A96, as well as unpaired A44 and A65. Our data emphasize the participation of adenosine deaminases in capturing and intracellular trafficking of internalized RNAs.

Splicing by exon exclusion impaired by artificial box c/d RNA targeted to branch-point adenosine

Box C/D small nucleolar RNAs guide the site-specific 2'-O-ribose methylation of nucleotides in target rRNAs and snRNAs. In this study we used the ability of C/D box snoRNAs to guide modification of target RNAs with the aim of affecting the expression of predetermined human genes. We constructed an analogue of the human U24 box C/D RNA, the first antisense element of which was directed to induce 2'-O-ribose methylation of branch-point adenosine in the intron of the human heat-shock cognate protein (HSC8) pre-mRNA. The second antisense element was directed to induce methylation of G1702 in human 18S rRNA. Constructed artificial box C/D RNA was obtained by in vitro transcription by T7 RNA polymerase from a synthetic DNA template. It was shown that passive transfection of human adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells with the artificial box C/D RNA, accompanied by heat shock, induced 2'-O-ribose methylation of targeted 18S rRNA guanosine G1702 and impaired splicing of the HSC8 pre-mRNA. Derangement of HSC8 splicing was the result of exclusion of the exon downstream to the targeted intron branch point. The total efficacy of pre-mRNA splicing impairment induced by artificial C/D box RNA was estimated as 6 to 10%.

Statistical properties of dynamic speckles formed by a deflecting laser beam

We analyze statistical properties of dynamic speckles formed when an optically rough surface is illuminated by a fast-deflecting laser beam. The modified space-time correlation function of the light-intensity fluctuations has been introduced to estimate the correlation parameters of a dynamic speckle pattern. Dynamic speckles are considered in their application to range sensing using evaluation of the light-power-modulation frequency of a signal obtained from the integrating photodetector after spatial filtering of the scattered light. Multichannel configuration is suggested to improve the system accuracy. Conditions that should be fulfilled to get uncorrelated responses of photodiode are found. Proper averaging of the multichannel data allows designing a non-interferometric range sensor capable for measuring distance with accuracy of 1 microm during as short time as 1 ms.

[The comparative aspects of spatial ecology of lizards exemplified by the toad-headed lizards (Reptilia, Agamidae, Phrynocephalus)]

The possibility of analysis of phylogenetic parameters of the spatial distribution of populations is discussed by an example of the agamid toad-headed lizards (Phrynocephalus). Summarizing both original and published data on the individual home ranges and the relocation of individuals of 30 populations from 12 species showed that differentiation of the type of spatial distribution is weak in toad-headed lizards. This observation confirms the idea that this clade of agamids is phylogenetically young and relatively recently radiated. At the interspecific level, positive correlation between home range size and body size was observed in the studied group. Such spatial parameters, shared by all toad-headed lizards, as relatively large size and weakly structured individual home ranges can be explained by the peculiarities of their reproduction features and their foraging mode. The individual type of space-usage in toad-headed does not fit the traditional scheme dividing all the lizards into the territorial Iguania and the nonterritorial Autarchoglossa.

Accuracy and resolution of a dynamic-speckle profilometer

We propose and demonstrate a new technique for fast noncontact and continuous profile measurement of a rough surface. The technique is based on frequency tracking of the power modulation of spatially filtered scattered light. A dynamic speckle pattern is created when the laser beam scans the surface under study. The main advantage of the proposed technique is high scanning speed, which provides an extremely short response time of the distance sensor (<0.1 micros). Parameters that affect accuracy and resolution of the system are analyzed. Possible ways for further improvement of the measurements accuracy are discussed.

[Effect of exogenous dna injection on leukopoietic repair and antitumor action of cyclophosphamide]

The cytostatic drug cyclophosphamide (CPA) in high dosage suppressed hemopoiesis by causing multiple double-strand breaks to occur in hemopoietic cell DNA and leading to mutation, chromosomal abberations and finally cell death. We tested fragmented DNA drugs for an ability of CPA to protect murine leukopoiesis on an assumption that once exogenous fragmented DNA had infiltrated into a cell, it might integrate with chromosomal DNA through homologous recombinations thus repairing damaged segments. DNA drugs did promote repair of leukocyte count in murine peripheral blood with leukopoiesis being suppressed by CPA administration. The levels of DNA derived from murine organs and human placenta were higher than those from salmon roe. Tumor growth was significantly inhibited following injection of placental DNA into mice bearing intramuscularly transplanted lymphosarcoma. Antitumor effect of combined CPA and DNA treatment was much higher than after CPA alone.

Dynamic speckle effect induced by an acousto-optic deflector for fast range sensing

A technique for fast distance measurements based on continuous frequency measurements of the power modulation of spatially filtered scattered light is proposed. For what is to our knowledge the first time, it is shown that the technique works when laser beam scanning is performed with an acousto-optic deflector. The most impressive feature of the proposed technique is that it works at very high scanning speed, providing an extremely fast response time. Experimental verification of the technique is demonstrated at a scanning speed as as high as 130 m/s. The proposed method of range sensing allows the design of a distance sensor possessing a response time as fast as 80 ns.

[Human milk lactoferrin hydrolyzes nucleoside-5'-triphosphates]

Lactoferrin (LF) is a main iron-transfering glycoprotein of human barrier body fluids, blood and milk. LF, a protein of the acute phase, is responsible for nonspecific cells defense against microbial and viral infection and cancer diseases. LF is an important component of the passive immunity of newborns system. LF, an extremely polyfunctional protein, is the object of intensive investigations. In this work electrophoretically homogeneous LF from human milk was prepared. Affinity chromatography of LF on Blue Sepharose separated the protein into several distinct isoforms with different affinities to this resin. Two of this isoforms possess nucleoside-5'-triphosphate-hydrolyzing activity. Using several methods including in-gel ATPase activity assays, we show that ATP (and others NTP) hydrolysis is an intrinsic property of LF, and that LF is the major ATPase of human milk. It was shown that ATP-hydrolyzing site is located in C-lobe of LF.

Ribonucleic acids of human milk

The milk feeding is the most essential process laying the foundation of human health at the postnatal development. However little is known about nucleic acids secreted into mother's milk during lactation. In order to investigate the composition and abundance of human milk NA we adapted the conventional isolation method to achieve high yield of total nucleic acids from milk samples. Concentration of total NA in milk samples of different donors varies from 20 to 68 mkg/ml at early stages of lactation. The average concentration tends to fall down to the end of lactation. The chain length of the major forms of NA varies from mononucleotides up to approximately 100 bases. Compositions of milk oligonucleotides are similar in samples of different donors. Major milk oligonucleotides are formed of RNA. Human milk contains the set of long-chain oligonucleotides with a developed secondary structure. Sequences of some oligo-RNAs correspond to the 3'-part of 5.8 S human ribosomal RNA and to the 3'-parts of tRNAVal and tRNATyr Primary structures of some others oligo-RNAs were related to fragments of human 18S and 28S rRNAs.

Oligonucleosome DNA fragmentation of caspase 3 deficient MCF-7 cells in palmitate-induced apoptosis

Oligonucleosomal fragmentation of nuclear DNA is the late stage hallmark of the apoptotic process. In mammalian apoptotic cells fragmentation is catalyzed by DFF40/ CAD DNase. DFF40/CAD primary activated through site-specific proteolytic cleavage by caspase 3. The absence of caspase 3 in MCF-7 leads to lack of oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation under numerous apoptotic stimuli. In this study it was shown that palmitate induces apoptotic changes of nuclei and oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation in casp3 deficient MCF-7. Activation and accumulation of 40-50 kDa DFF40 like DNases in nuclei and cytoplasm of palmitate-treated MCF-7 were detected by SDS-DNA-PAGE assay. Microsomes of apoptotic MCF-7 activate 40-50 kDa nucleases when incubated with human placental chromatin and induce oligonucleosomal fragmentation of chromatin in cell free system. Both DNases activation and chromatin fragmentation are suppressed in presence of caspase 3/7 inhibitor Ac-DEVD-CHO. Microsome associated caspase 7 is suggested to play the principal role in induction of oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation of casp3 defitient MCF-7.

Fast distance measurements by use of dynamic speckles

A technique for fast measurements of the distance to an object's surface based on spatial filtering of dynamic speckle patterns is proposed. Exploitation of two spatial filters (Ronchi rulings) enables measurements to be independent of surface speed. Experimental verification of the technique is demonstrated at speeds of the surface as high as 50 m/s. The technique may find applications in machine-vision systems for acquisition of three-dimensional images and in control systems for on-line monitoring of fast-moving parts of industrial machines.

Oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation in MCF-7 cells undergoing palmitate-induced apoptosis

Oligonucleosomal fragmentation of nuclear DNA is the late-stage apoptosis hallmark. In apoptotic mammalian cells the fragmentation is catalyzed by DFF40/CAD DNase primarily activated by caspase 3 through the site-specific proteolytic cleavage of DFF45/ICAD. A deletion in the casp3 gene of human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 results in lack of procaspase 3 in these cells. The absence of caspase 3 in MCF-7 leads to disability to activate oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation in TNF-alpha induced cell death. In this study, sodium palmitate was used as an apoptotic stimulus for MCF-7. It has been shown that palmitate but not TNF-alpha induces both apoptotic changes in nuclei and oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation in casp3-mutated MCF-7. Activation and accumulation of 40-50 kD DFF40-like DNases in nuclei of palmitate-treated apoptotic MCF-7 were detected by SDS-DNA-PAGE assay. Microsomal fraction of apoptotic MCF-7 does not contain any detectable DNases, but activates 40-50 kD nucleases when incubated with human placental chromatin. Furthermore, microsomes of apoptotic MCF-7 induce oligonucleosomal fragmentation of chromatin in a cell-free system. Both the activation of DNases and chromatin fragmentation are suppressed in the presence of the caspase 3/7 inhibitor Ac-DEVD-CHO. Microsome-associated caspase 7 is suggested to play an essential role in the induction of oligonucleosomal DNA fragmentation in casp3-deficient MCF-7 cells.

Extracellular ribonucleic acids of human milk

Human milk has been shown to contain heterogeneous oligoribonucleotides varying in size from dimers to 100 mers. The sets of long oligonucleotides in milk samples from different donors and from different stages of lactation have some conservative elements. Sequences of some RNA oligonucleotides correspond to the 3'-part of 5.8S human ribosomal RNA and to 3'-parts of tRNAVal and tRNATyr. Primary structures of other oligo-RNAs are homologous to fragments of human 18S and 28S rRNAs. Concentration of RNA in milk samples tends to decrease with lactation development. The change of RNA concentration and the low concentration of DNA in milk plasma suggest that the source of RNA in human milk may be active secretion of RNA by mammary gland cells.

Catalytic nucleotide-hydrolyzing antibodies in milk and serum of clinically healthy human mothers

BACKGROUND

In humans, pregnancy and lactation are associated with the production of catalytically active antibodies (abzymes) in serum and breast milk. However, the substrate specificities of the abzymes in these biological fluids, particularly breast milk, have not been studied

MATERIAL/METHODS

IgG fractions were isolated from human milk by subsequent steps of chromatographic purification on Protein-A Sepharose, DEAE-cellulose, and anti-IgG Sepharose. The nucleotide-hydrolyzing activity of electrophoretically homogeneous IgG antibodies was measured using 32P-labeled nucleotides and TLC.

RESULTS

We demonstrated by different methods that IgG antibodies from the serum and milk of clinically healthy human mothers are able to hydrolyze ribo- and deoxyribonucleoside-5'-mono, di- and triphosphates; this nucleotide-hydrolyzing activity was also present in Fab fragments of the IgG molecule. Affinity modification of the milk IgG oligomeric form by chemically reactive derivatives of ATP led to preferential modification of the L-chain. However, after separation of the subunits by SDS electrophoresis, an in-gel assay showed ATP-hydrolyzing activity in various oligomeric forms of IgG subunits (H2L2, H2L and HL), while the separated heavy (H) and light (L) chains were not catalytically active. The Km and Vmax values characterizing the interaction of IgG with nucleotides were estimated.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings speak in favor of the generation of a variety of polyclonal nucleotide-hydrolyzing antibodies by the immune system of clinically healthy mothers.

Multiple enzymic activities of human milk lactoferrin

Lactoferrin (LF) is a Fe3+-binding glycoprotein, first recognized in milk and then in other human epithelial secretions and barrier fluids. Many different functions have been attributed to LF, including protection from iron-induced lipid peroxidation, immunomodulation and cell growth regulation, DNA binding, and transcriptional activation. Its physiological role is still unclear, but it has been suggested to be responsible for primary defense against microbial and viral infection. We present evidence that different subfractions of purified human milk LF possess five different enzyme activities: DNase, RNase, ATPase, phosphatase, and malto-oligosaccharide hydrolysis. LF is the predominant source of these activities in human milk. Some of its catalytically active subfractions are cytotoxic and induce apoptosis. The discovery that LF possesses these activities may help to elucidate its many physiological functions, including its protective role against microbial and viral infection.

[Mycotic aneurysms of the thoraco-abdominal part of the aorta]

Mycotoc aneurysms (MA)--a rare and extremely dangerous lesion of the aorta. CT, MRA and aortography were used to diagnose MA of the thoracoabdominal areas in 2 men of 64 and 67 years of age. The clinical picture included: fever with shivering with the temperature 38-39 degrees C and increasing pains in the inferiothoracic and lumbar areas of the spine. Hemoculture was positive in 1 patient only. The patients were operated on. Shunting of the aorta from the inferiothoracic to infrarenal segments was performed in one patient with the exclusion of the involved portion and resection of MA. Metalloosteosynthesis of the spine due to destruction of LI-LII and compression of the spine were performed in the second patient followed by analogous shunting of the aorta and visceral arteries with the resection of the aneurysm. To prevent infection of the prostheses the shunts were wrapped up with a piece of the greater omentum. One patient died two months later from recurrent sepsis. The other one is alive, within 28 months the shunts are patent, there are no signs of a reinfection.