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Takayanagi H, Ogasawara K, Hida S, Chiba T, Murata S, Sato K, Takaoka A, Yokochi T, Oda H, Tanaka K, Nakamura K, Taniguchi T. T-cell-mediated regulation of osteoclastogenesis by signalling cross-talk between RANKL and IFN-gamma. Nature 2000; 408:600-5. [PMID: 11117749 DOI: 10.1038/35046102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 987] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Bone resorption is regulated by the immune system, where T-cell expression of RANKL (receptor activator of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB ligand), a member of the tumour-necrosis factor family that is essential for osteoclastogenesis, may contribute to pathological conditions, such as autoimmune arthritis. However, whether activated T cells maintain bone homeostasis by counterbalancing the action of RANKL remains unknown. Here we show that T-cell production of interferon (IFN)-gamma strongly suppresses osteoclastogenesis by interfering with the RANKL-RANK signalling pathway. IFN-gamma induces rapid degradation of the RANK adapter protein, TRAF6 (tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6), which results in strong inhibition of the RANKL-induced activation of the transcription factor NF-kappaB and JNK. This inhibition of osteoclastogenesis is rescued by overexpressing TRAF6 in precursor cells, which indicates that TRAF6 is the target critical for the IFN-gamma action. Furthermore, we provide evidence that the accelerated degradation of TRAF6 requires both its ubiquitination, which is initiated by RANKL, and IFN-gamma-induced activation of the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Our study shows that there is cross-talk between the tumour necrosis factor and IFN families of cytokines, through which IFN-gamma provides a negative link between T-cell activation and bone resorption. Our results may offer a therapeutic approach to treat the inflammation-induced tissue breakdown.
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Abstract
Growing evidence has indicated that cellular reduction/oxidation (redox) status regulates various aspects of cellular function. Oxidative stress can elicit positive responses such as cellular proliferation or activation, as well as negative responses such as growth inhibition or cell death. Cellular redox status is maintained by intracellular redox-regulating molecules, including thioredoxin (TRX). TRX is a small multifunctional protein that has a redox-active disulfide/dithiol within the conserved active site sequence: Cys-Gly-Pro-Cys. Adult T cell leukemia-derived factor (ADF), which we originally defined as an IL-2 receptor alpha-chain/Tac inducer produced by human T cell lymphotrophic virus-I (HTLV-I)-transformed T cells, has been identified as human TRX. TRX/ADF is a stress-inducible protein secreted from cells. TRX/ADF has both intracellular and extracellular functions as one of the key regulators of signaling in the cellular responses against various stresses. Extracellularly, TRX/ADF shows a cytoprotective activity against oxidative stress-induced apoptosis and a growth-promoting effect as an autocrine growth factor. Intracellularly, TRX/ADF is involved in the regulation of protein-protein or protein-nucleic acid interactions through the reduction/oxidation of protein cysteine residues. For example, TRX/ADF translocates from the cytosol into the nucleus by a variety of cellular stresses, to regulate the expression of various genes through the redox factor-1 (Ref-1)/APEX. Further studies to clarify the regulatory roles of TRX/ADF and its target molecules may elucidate the intracellular signaling pathways in the responses against various stresses. The concept of "redox regulation" is emerging as an understanding of the novel mechanisms in the pathogenesis of several disorders, including viral infections, immunodeficiency, malignant transformation, and degenerative disease.
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Review |
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de Morais S, Wilkinson G, Blaisdell J, Nakamura K, Meyer U, Goldstein J. The major genetic defect responsible for the polymorphism of S-mephenytoin metabolism in humans. J Biol Chem 1994. [DOI: 10.1016/s0021-9258(17)40694-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 663] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Yamada R, Sato M, Kawabata M, Nakatsuka H, Nakamura K, Takashima S. Hepatic artery embolization in 120 patients with unresectable hepatoma. Radiology 1983; 148:397-401. [PMID: 6306721 DOI: 10.1148/radiology.148.2.6306721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 660] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Transcatheter hepatic artery embolization was performed in 120 patients with unresectable hepatoma. The cumulative one-year survival rate was 44%. In most cases follow-up angiography revealed the selective disappearance of tumor vessels, and computed tomography demonstrated a marked decrease in tumor density without any changes in the surrounding liver parenchyma. Histologic examination in 14 cases confirmed these findings.
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Case Reports |
42 |
660 |
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Hikosaka O, Nakahara H, Rand MK, Sakai K, Lu X, Nakamura K, Miyachi S, Doya K. Parallel neural networks for learning sequential procedures. Trends Neurosci 1999; 22:464-71. [PMID: 10481194 DOI: 10.1016/s0166-2236(99)01439-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 528] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have shown that multiple brain areas contribute to different stages and aspects of procedural learning. On the basis of a series of studies using a sequence-learning task with trial-and-error, we propose a hypothetical scheme in which a sequential procedure is acquired independently by two cortical systems, one using spatial coordinates and the other using motor coordinates. They are active preferentially in the early and late stages of learning, respectively. Both of the two systems are supported by loop circuits formed with the basal ganglia and the cerebellum, the former for reward-based evaluation and the latter for processing of timing. The proposed neural architecture would operate in a flexible manner to acquire and execute multiple sequential procedures.
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Review |
26 |
528 |
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Ide T, Tsutsui H, Hayashidani S, Kang D, Suematsu N, Nakamura K, Utsumi H, Hamasaki N, Takeshita A. Mitochondrial DNA damage and dysfunction associated with oxidative stress in failing hearts after myocardial infarction. Circ Res 2001; 88:529-35. [PMID: 11249877 DOI: 10.1161/01.res.88.5.529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 507] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria are one of the enzymatic sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and could also be a major target for ROS-mediated damage. We hypothesized that ROS may induce mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) damage, which leads to defects of mtDNA-encoded gene expression and respiratory chain complex enzymes and thus may contribute to the progression of left ventricular (LV) remodeling and failure after myocardial infarction (MI). In a murine model of MI and remodeling created by the left anterior descending coronary artery ligation for 4 weeks, the LV was dilated and contractility was diminished. Hydroxyl radicals, which originated from the superoxide anion, and lipid peroxide formation in the mitochondria were both increased in the noninfarcted LV from MI mice. The mtDNA copy number relative to the nuclear gene (18S rRNA) preferentially decreased by 44% in MI by a Southern blot analysis, associated with a parallel decrease (30% to 50% of sham) in the mtDNA-encoded gene transcripts, including the subunits of complex I (ND1, 2, 3, 4, 4L, and 5), complex III (cytochrome b), complex IV (cytochrome c oxidase), and rRNA (12S and 16S). Consistent with these molecular changes, the enzymatic activity of complexes I, III, and IV decreased in MI, whereas, in contrast, complex II and citrate synthase, encoded only by nuclear DNA, both remained at normal levels. An intimate link among ROS, mtDNA damage, and defects in the electron transport function, which may lead to an additional generation of ROS, might play an important role in the development and progression of LV remodeling and failure.
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507 |
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Naito A, Azuma S, Tanaka S, Miyazaki T, Takaki S, Takatsu K, Nakao K, Nakamura K, Katsuki M, Yamamoto T, Inoue J. Severe osteopetrosis, defective interleukin-1 signalling and lymph node organogenesis in TRAF6-deficient mice. Genes Cells 1999; 4:353-62. [PMID: 10421844 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2443.1999.00265.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 502] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND TRAF6, a member of the tumour necrosis factor receptor-associated factor family, was first identified as a transducer of CD40 and interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1R) signals based on the interaction of TRAF6 with the cytoplasmic tail of CD40 and with the IL-1R associated kinase in vitro. However, the functions of TRAF6 in vivo remain unidentified. RESULTS We show that TRAF6-/- mice exhibit severe osteopetrosis and are defective in osteoclast formation. In vitro culture experiments revealed that osteoclast precursor cells derived from TRAF6-/- mice are unable to differentiate to functional osteoclasts in response to osteoclast differentiation factor (ODF). In bone marrow of TRAF6-/- mice, the number of sIgM+B220+ immature B cells is markedly reduced while the ratio of proB to preB cells is not affected. In contrast, development of thymocytes is not affected. Furthermore, TRAF6-/- mice are defective in lymph node organogenesis and IL-1 signalling in thymocytes. CONCLUSIONS The results identify TRAF6 as an essential component of ODF signalling pathway, and also show that TRAF6 plays pivotal roles in immune and inflammatory systems in vivo.
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502 |
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Takayanagi H, Iizuka H, Juji T, Nakagawa T, Yamamoto A, Miyazaki T, Koshihara Y, Oda H, Nakamura K, Tanaka S. Involvement of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaB ligand/osteoclast differentiation factor in osteoclastogenesis from synoviocytes in rheumatoid arthritis. ARTHRITIS AND RHEUMATISM 2000; 43:259-69. [PMID: 10693864 DOI: 10.1002/1529-0131(200002)43:2<259::aid-anr4>3.0.co;2-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 464] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To clarify the mechanism by which osteoclasts are formed in culture of rheumatoid synoviocytes by exploring the involvement of receptor activator of nuclear factor kappaB ligand (RANKL)/osteoclast differentiation factor (ODF). METHODS Osteoclast formation was evaluated in cocultures of rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in the presence of macrophage colony stimulating factor and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25[OH]2D3) utilizing separating membrane filters. RANKL/ODF expression was examined by Northern blotting in synovial tissues from 5 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and tissues from patients with giant cell tumor (GCT), osteosarcoma (OS), and osteoarthritis (OA). RANKL/ODF expression and the ability of synovial fibroblasts to support osteoclastogenesis were investigated in coculture with PBMC in the presence or absence of 1,25(OH)2D3, and soluble RANKL/ODF and osteoprotegerin (OPG)/osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor (OCIF) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The effects of OPG/OCIF on the osteoclastogenesis in the primary culture of rheumatoid synoviocytes and the coculture system were determined. RESULTS Synovial fibroblasts did not induce osteoclastogenesis when separately cocultured with PBMC. Northern blotting revealed that RANKL/ODF was highly expressed in all tissues from RA and GCT patients, but not from OA or OS patients. Cultured rheumatoid synovial fibroblasts efficiently induced osteoclastogenesis in the presence of 1,25(OH)2D3, which was accompanied by up-regulated expression of RANKL/ODF and decreased production of OPG/OCIF. Osteoclastogenesis from synoviocytes was dose-dependently inhibited by OPG/OCIF. CONCLUSION RANKL/ODF expressed on synovial fibroblasts is involved in rheumatoid bone destruction by inducing osteoclastogenesis and would therefore be a good therapeutic target.
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Tamura N, Ogawa Y, Chusho H, Nakamura K, Nakao K, Suda M, Kasahara M, Hashimoto R, Katsuura G, Mukoyama M, Itoh H, Saito Y, Tanaka I, Otani H, Katsuki M. Cardiac fibrosis in mice lacking brain natriuretic peptide. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2000; 97:4239-44. [PMID: 10737768 PMCID: PMC18212 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.070371497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 447] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Cardiac fibrosis, defined as a proliferation of interstitial fibroblasts and biosynthesis of extracellular matrix components in the ventricles of the heart, is a consequence of remodeling processes initiated by pathologic events associated with a variety of cardiovascular disorders, which leads to abnormal myocardial stiffness and, ultimately, ventricular dysfunction. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is a cardiac hormone produced primarily by ventricular myocytes, and its plasma concentrations are markedly elevated in patients with congestive heart failure and acute myocardial infarction. However, its precise functional significance has been undefined. In this paper, we report the generation of mice with targeted disruption of BNP (Nppb(-/-) mice). We observed multifocal fibrotic lesions in the ventricles from Nppb(-/-) mice. No signs of systemic hypertension and ventricular hypertrophy are noted in Nppb(-/-) mice. In response to ventricular pressure overload, focal fibrotic lesions are increased in size and number in Nppb(-/-) mice, whereas no focal fibrotic changes are found in wild-type littermates (Nppb(+/+) mice). This study establishes BNP as a cardiomyocyte-derived antifibrotic factor in vivo and provides evidence for its role as a local regulator of ventricular remodeling.
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Nakamura K, Ito Y, Kawano Y, Kurozumi K, Kobune M, Tsuda H, Bizen A, Honmou O, Niitsu Y, Hamada H. Antitumor effect of genetically engineered mesenchymal stem cells in a rat glioma model. Gene Ther 2004; 11:1155-64. [PMID: 15141157 DOI: 10.1038/sj.gt.3302276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 442] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The prognosis of patients with malignant glioma is extremely poor, despite the extensive surgical treatment that they receive and recent improvements in adjuvant radio- and chemotherapy. In the present study, we propose the use of gene-modified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as a new tool for gene therapy of malignant brain neoplasms. Primary MSCs isolated from Fischer 344 rats possessed excellent migratory ability and exerted inhibitory effects on the proliferation of 9L glioma cell in vitro. We also confirmed the migratory capacity of MSCs in vivo and showed that when they were inoculated into the contralateral hemisphere, they migrated towards 9L glioma cells through the corpus callosum. MSCs implanted directly into the tumor localized mainly at the border between the 9L tumor cells and normal brain parenchyma, and also infiltrated into the tumor bed. Intratumoral injection of MSCs caused significant inhibition of 9L tumor growth and increased the survival of 9L glioma-bearing rats. Gene-modification of MSCs by infection with an adenoviral vector encoding human interleukin-2 (IL-2) clearly augmented the antitumor effect and further prolonged the survival of tumor-bearing rats. Thus, gene therapy employing MSCs as a targeting vehicle would be promising as a new therapeutic approach for refractory brain tumor.
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't |
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442 |
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Mimura J, Yamashita K, Nakamura K, Morita M, Takagi TN, Nakao K, Ema M, Sogawa K, Yasuda M, Katsuki M, Fujii-Kuriyama Y. Loss of teratogenic response to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) in mice lacking the Ah (dioxin) receptor. Genes Cells 1997; 2:645-54. [PMID: 9427285 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2443.1997.1490345.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 433] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR or dioxin receptor) is a ligand-activated transcription factor that is considered to mediate pleiotropic biological responses such as teratogenesis, tumour promotion, epithelial hyperplasia and the induction of drug-metabolizing enzymes to environmental contaminants usually represented by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). In contrast to the role of AhR in the regulatory mechanism of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes, there is no direct proof that the AhR is involved in the teratogenic effects of TCDD. RESULTS To gain insight into the physiological and teratogenic role of the AhR, we have used gene targeting in mice to disrupt the murine Ahr gene by homologous recombination. Ahr-null mice were viable and fertile and were apparently normal at birth, but displayed a slightly slower growth rate than wild-type mice for the first few weeks of life. When pregnant dams were administered with TCDD by gavage, at a dose of 40 microg/kg body weight at gestation day 12.5, none of the Ahr-null mutant foetuses were sensitive to the teratogenic effects of TCDD, although almost all wild-type foetuses suffered from cleft palate and hydronephrosis. In heterozygous Ahr+/- genotypes, nearly all foetuses suffered from hydronephrosis in response to TCDD treatment, while haplo-insufficiency was observed in the incidence of cleft palate. CONCLUSION These results clearly show that the AhR is involved in the malformation of the palate and kidney in mouse embryos caused by TCDD and suggests that the mechanism of its involvement differs between the cleft palate and hydronephrosis.
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Kamekura S, Hoshi K, Shimoaka T, Chung U, Chikuda H, Yamada T, Uchida M, Ogata N, Seichi A, Nakamura K, Kawaguchi H. Osteoarthritis development in novel experimental mouse models induced by knee joint instability. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2005; 13:632-41. [PMID: 15896985 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2005.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 430] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2004] [Accepted: 03/02/2005] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Although osteoarthritis (OA) is induced by accumulated mechanical stress to joints, little is known about the underlying molecular mechanism. To apply approaches from mouse genomics, this study created experimental mouse OA models by producing instability in the knee joints. METHODS The models were of four types: severe, moderate, mild, and medial, depending on the severity and direction of instability imposed by combinations of ligament transection and menisectomy. OA development was evaluated by X-ray and histology by Safranin-O staining, and quantified using our original gradings. Expressions of type II, IX and X collagens and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, -3, -9 and -13 were further examined by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization (ISH). RESULTS The severe, moderate and mild models exhibited OA development in the posterior tibial cartilage. The severe model showed cartilage destruction at 2 weeks and osteophyte formation at 4-8 weeks after surgery; however, the mild model showed only a partial cartilage destruction at 8 weeks. The grading confirmed that the OA disorders progressed depending on the severity of joint instability. In the medial model, the OA development in the medial tibial cartilage was similar to that in the posterior cartilage of the mild model. Among the collagens and MMPs, type X collagen and MMP-13 were markedly induced and colocalized in the early stage OA cartilage. CONCLUSION We established four types of mouse models exhibiting various speeds of OA progression. By applying a mouse genomics approach to the models, molecular backgrounds in various stages of OA development can be clarified.
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Nakamura K, Jeong SY, Uchihara T, Anno M, Nagashima K, Nagashima T, Ikeda S, Tsuji S, Kanazawa I. SCA17, a novel autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia caused by an expanded polyglutamine in TATA-binding protein. Hum Mol Genet 2001; 10:1441-8. [PMID: 11448935 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/10.14.1441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 422] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic etiologies of at least 20% of autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxias (ADCAs) have yet to be clarified. We identified a novel spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) form in four Japanese pedigrees which is caused by an abnormal CAG expansion in the TATA-binding protein (TBP) gene, a general transcription initiation factor. Consequently, it has been added to the group of polyglutamine diseases. This abnormal expansion of glutamine tracts in TBP bears 47--55 repeats, whereas the normal repeat number ranges from 29 to 42. Immunocytochemical examination of a postmortem brain which carried 48 CAG repeats detected neuronal intranuclear inclusion bodies that stained with anti-ubiquitin antibody, anti-TBP antibody and with the 1C2 antibody that recognizes specifically expanded pathological polyglutamine tracts. We therefore propose that this new disease be called SCA17 (TBP disease).
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Kakinuma T, Nakamura K, Wakugawa M, Mitsui H, Tada Y, Saeki H, Torii H, Asahina A, Onai N, Matsushima K, Tamaki K. Thymus and activation-regulated chemokine in atopic dermatitis: Serum thymus and activation-regulated chemokine level is closely related with disease activity. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2001; 107:535-41. [PMID: 11240957 DOI: 10.1067/mai.2001.113237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 410] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory skin disease characterized by the predominant infiltration of TH2-type cells in lesional skin. Thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC/CCL17) is a chemokine that attracts CC chemokine receptor 4-positive (CCR4+) or CCR8+ cells. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to investigate the participation of TARC in AD. METHODS We measured serum TARC levels in 40 patients with AD, 20 healthy control subjects, and 20 patients with psoriasis. We also examined disease activity by using SCORAD score; serum soluble E-selectin, soluble IL-2 receptor, IgE, and GM-CSF levels; and eosinophil numbers in peripheral blood, as well as correlations between TARC levels and these factors. The positivity of CCR4 of CD4+CD45RO+ cells in PBMCs was examined by using FACS analysis. Immunohistochemical staining of TARC and GM-CSF was performed in the lesional skin of patients with AD. RESULTS The serum TARC levels of patients with AD were significantly higher than those of healthy control subjects and patients with psoriasis. The serum TARC levels significantly correlated with eosinophil number (r = 0.61), SCORAD score (r = 0.60), and serum soluble E-selectin levels (r = 0.58) and weakly correlated with serum soluble IL-2 receptor levels (r = 0.34) in patients with AD. The TARC levels of patients with AD decreased after the treatment in accordance with the improvement of clinical symptoms. The CCR4 positivity of CD4+CD45RO+ cells in PBMCs of patients with AD was also higher than that of healthy control subjects. Immunohistochemical staining revealed that TARC was positive in keratinocytes in the epidermis and in vascular endothelial cells, T cells, and dendritic cells in the dermis. CONCLUSION Serum TARC levels are associated with disease activity of AD, and TARC may play an important role in the pathogenesis of AD.
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MESH Headings
- Administration, Oral
- Administration, Topical
- Adrenal Cortex Hormones/administration & dosage
- Adult
- CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes/immunology
- Chemokine CCL17
- Chemokines, CC/blood
- Chemokines, CC/immunology
- Dermatitis, Atopic/blood
- Dermatitis, Atopic/drug therapy
- Dermatitis, Atopic/physiopathology
- E-Selectin/blood
- Eosinophils/cytology
- Histamine H1 Antagonists/administration & dosage
- Humans
- Immunoglobulin E/blood
- Immunohistochemistry
- Leukocyte Common Antigens/blood
- Leukocyte Count
- Receptors, CCR4
- Receptors, Chemokine/analysis
- Receptors, Interleukin-2/blood
- Severity of Illness Index
- Skin/chemistry
- Skin/immunology
- Solubility
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Misawa N, Nakagawa M, Kobayashi K, Yamano S, Izawa Y, Nakamura K, Harashima K. Elucidation of the Erwinia uredovora carotenoid biosynthetic pathway by functional analysis of gene products expressed in Escherichia coli. J Bacteriol 1990; 172:6704-12. [PMID: 2254247 PMCID: PMC210783 DOI: 10.1128/jb.172.12.6704-6712.1990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 403] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The most important function of carotenoid pigments, especially beta-carotene in higher plants, is to protect organisms against photooxidative damage (G. Britton, in T. W. Goodwin, ed., Plant Pigments--1988, 1988; N. I. Krinsky, in O. Isler, H. Gutmann, and U. Solms, ed., Carotenoids--1971, 1971). beta-Carotene also functions as a precursor of vitamin A in mammals (G. A. J. Pitt, in I. Osler, H. Gutmann, and U. Solms, ed., Carotenoids--1971, 1971). The enzymes and genes which mediate the biosynthesis of cyclic carotenoids such as beta-carotene are virtually unknown. We have elucidated for the first time the pathway for biosynthesis of these carotenoids at the level of enzyme-catalyzed reactions, using bacterial carotenoid biosynthesis genes. These genes were cloned from a phytopathogenic bacterium, Erwinia uredovora 20D3 (ATCC 19321), in Escherichia coli and located on a 6,918-bp fragment whose nucleotide sequence was determined. Six open reading frames were found and designated the crtE, crtX, crtY, crtI, crtB, and crtZ genes in reference to the carotenoid biosynthesis genes of a photosynthetic bacterium, Rhodobacter capsulatus; only crtZ had the opposite orientation from the others. The carotenoid biosynthetic pathway in Erwinia uredovora was clarified by analyzing carotenoids accumulated in E. coli transformants in which some of these six genes were expressed, as follows: geranylgeranyl PPiCrtB----prephytoene PPiCrtE----phytoeneCrtI---- lycopeneCrtY----beta-caroteneCrtZ----zeaxanthinCrtX--- -zeaxanthin-beta- diglucoside. The carotenoids in this pathway appear to be close to those in higher plants rather than to those in bacteria. Also significant is that only one gene product (CrtI) for the conversion of phytoene to lycopene is required, a conversion in which four sequential desaturations should occur via the intermediates phytofluene, zeta-carotene, and neurosporene.
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DiRienzo JM, Nakamura K, Inouye M. The outer membrane proteins of Gram-negative bacteria: biosynthesis, assembly, and functions. Annu Rev Biochem 1978; 47:481-532. [PMID: 354502 DOI: 10.1146/annurev.bi.47.070178.002405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 403] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Takano T, Nakamura K, Watanabe M. Urban residential environments and senior citizens' longevity in megacity areas: the importance of walkable green spaces. J Epidemiol Community Health 2002; 56:913-8. [PMID: 12461111 PMCID: PMC1756988 DOI: 10.1136/jech.56.12.913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 402] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES To study the association between greenery filled public areas that are nearby a residence and easy to walk in and the longevity of senior citizens in a densely populated, developed megacity. DESIGN Cohort study. METHODS The authors analysed the five year survival of 3144 people born in 1903, 1908, 1913, or 1918 who consented to a follow up survey from the records of registered Tokyo citizens in relation to baseline residential environment characteristics in 1992. MAIN RESULTS The survival of 2211 and the death of 897 (98.9% follow up) were confirmed. The probability of five year survival of the senior citizens studied increased in accordance with the space for taking a stroll near the residence (p<0.01), parks and tree lined streets near the residence (p<0.05), and their preference to continue to live in their current community (p<0.01). The principal component analysis from the baseline residential environment characteristics identified two environment related factors: the factor of walkable green streets and spaces near the residence and the factor of a positive attitude to a person's own community. After controlling the effects of the residents' age, sex, marital status, and socioeconomic status, the factor of walkable green streets and spaces near the residence showed significant predictive value for the survival of the urban senior citizens over the following five years (p<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Living in areas with walkable green spaces positively influenced the longevity of urban senior citizens independent of their age, sex, marital status, baseline functional status, and socioeconomic status. Greenery filled public areas that are nearby and easy to walk in should be further emphasised in urban planning for the development and re-development of densely populated areas in a megacity. Close collaboration should be undertaken among the health, construction, civil engineering, planning, and other concerned sectors in the context of the healthy urban policy, so as to promote the health of senior citizens.
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Mesaeli N, Nakamura K, Zvaritch E, Dickie P, Dziak E, Krause KH, Opas M, MacLennan DH, Michalak M. Calreticulin is essential for cardiac development. J Cell Biol 1999; 144:857-68. [PMID: 10085286 PMCID: PMC2148186 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.144.5.857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 398] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Calreticulin is a ubiquitous Ca2+ binding protein, located in the endoplasmic reticulum lumen, which has been implicated in many diverse functions including: regulation of intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, chaperone activity, steroid-mediated gene regulation, and cell adhesion. To understand the physiological function of calreticulin we used gene targeting to create a knockout mouse for calreticulin. Mice homozygous for the calreticulin gene disruption developed omphalocele (failure of absorption of the umbilical hernia) and showed a marked decrease in ventricular wall thickness and deep intertrabecular recesses in the ventricular walls. Transgenic mice expressing a green fluorescent protein reporter gene under the control of the calreticulin promoter were used to show that the calreticulin gene is highly activated in the cardiovascular system during the early stages of cardiac development. Calreticulin protein is also highly expressed in the developing heart, but it is only a minor component of the mature heart. Bradykinin-induced Ca2+ release by the InsP3-dependent pathway was inhibited in crt-/- cells, suggesting that calreticulin plays a role in Ca2+ homeostasis. Calreticulin-deficient cells also exhibited impaired nuclear import of nuclear factor of activated T cell (NF-AT3) transcription factor indicating that calreticulin plays a role in cardiac development as a component of the Ca2+/calcineurin/NF-AT/GATA-4 transcription pathway.
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Ishiguro S, Nakamura K. Characterization of a cDNA encoding a novel DNA-binding protein, SPF1, that recognizes SP8 sequences in the 5' upstream regions of genes coding for sporamin and beta-amylase from sweet potato. MOLECULAR & GENERAL GENETICS : MGG 1994; 244:563-71. [PMID: 7969025 DOI: 10.1007/bf00282746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 369] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
We isolated a cDNA encoding a DNA-binding protein, SPF1, of sweet potato that binds to the SP8a (ACTGTGTA) and SP8b (TACTATT) sequences present in the 5' upstream regions of three different genes coding for sporamin and beta-amylase of tuberous roots. SPF1 comprises 549 amino acids and is enriched in both basic and acidic residues. The amino acid sequence of SPF1 shows no significant homology to any known protein sequences, suggesting that it may represent a new class of DNA-binding protein. Binding studies with 35S-labeled SPF1, synthesized in vitro, and synthetic DNA fragments indicated that, although SPF1 binds to both the SP8a and SP8b sequences, it binds much more strongly to SP8a than to SP8b. SPF1 bound to the SP8a sequence as a monomer. The DNA-binding domain of SPF1 was localized within the C-terminal half of this protein, and a 162-amino acid fragment of SPF1 (Met310-Arg472) showed DNA-binding activity with no change in target sequence specificity. This fragment contains a region enriched in basic amino acids adjacent to a highly acidic stretch. A sequence which is highly homologous to a 40-amino acid sequence in the basic region of the DNA-binding domain is duplicated in the N-terminal part of SPF1. The gene coding for SPF1 is present in one or a few copies per haploid genome and the SPF1 mRNA was detected in leaves, stems and tuberous roots of the sweet potato, in addition to petioles. The level of SPF1 mRNA in the petioles decreased when leaf-petiole cuttings were treated with sucrose to induce accumulation of sporamin and beta-amylase mRNAs.
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Nakamura K, Fushimi K, Kouchi H, Mihara K, Miyazaki M, Ohe T, Namba M. Inhibitory effects of antioxidants on neonatal rat cardiac myocyte hypertrophy induced by tumor necrosis factor-alpha and angiotensin II. Circulation 1998; 98:794-9. [PMID: 9727550 DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.98.8.794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 338] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and angiotensin II (Ang II) modulate heart failure in part by provoking the hypertrophic response. Signal transduction pathways of those factors are implicated in reactive oxygen intermediates (ROIs). Therefore, we hypothesized that TNF-alpha and Ang II might cause myocyte hypertrophy via the generation of ROIs. METHODS AND RESULTS To test the hypothesis, we tested whether TNF-alpha and Ang II could induce the generation of ROIs and whether antioxidants such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), vitamin E, and catalase might inhibit the hypertrophy in cultured neonatal rat cardiac myocytes. ROIs were measured by the ROI-specific probe 2',7'-dichlorofluorescin diacetate in cultured cardiac myocytes. We demonstrated that TNF-alpha and Ang II induced the generation of ROIs in a dose-dependent manner. TNF-alpha (10 ng/mL) and Ang II (100 nmol/L) enlarged cardiac myocytes and increased [3H]leucine uptake, and BHA (10 micromol/L) significantly inhibited both effects. Other antioxidants, such as vitamin E (1 microg/mL) and catalase (100 U/mL), also inhibited the enlargement of cardiac myocytes induced by TNF-alpha. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that TNF-alpha and Ang II cause hypertrophy in part via the generation of ROIs in cardiac myocytes.
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Nakamura K, Goto F, Ray WA, McAllister CB, Jacqz E, Wilkinson GR, Branch RA. Interethnic differences in genetic polymorphism of debrisoquin and mephenytoin hydroxylation between Japanese and Caucasian populations. Clin Pharmacol Ther 1985; 38:402-8. [PMID: 4042523 DOI: 10.1038/clpt.1985.194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 337] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Interethnic differences in debrisoquin and mephenytoin hydroxylation have been compared between normal white (n = 183) and Japanese (n = 100) subjects with the 8-hour urinary metabolic ratio of debrisoquin and the urinary S/R enantiomeric ratio of mephenytoin to identify extensive (EM) and poor (PM) metabolizers. In white subjects the frequency of PMs was 8.7% and 2.7% for debrisoquin and mephenytoin, respectively. In contrast, in Japanese subjects no PMs of debrisoquin were identified, while the incidence of PMs of mephenytoin was 18%. These substantial differences (P less than 0.001) in polymorphic distributions of oxidative drug metabolizing ability have implications for interethnic efficacy and toxicity of drugs and other xenobiotics that are metabolized by the involved cytochrome P-450 isozymes.
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Chusho H, Tamura N, Ogawa Y, Yasoda A, Suda M, Miyazawa T, Nakamura K, Nakao K, Kurihara T, Komatsu Y, Itoh H, Tanaka K, Saito Y, Katsuki M, Nakao K. Dwarfism and early death in mice lacking C-type natriuretic peptide. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2001; 98:4016-21. [PMID: 11259675 PMCID: PMC31171 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.071389098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 335] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Longitudinal bone growth is determined by endochondral ossification that occurs as chondrocytes in the cartilaginous growth plate undergo proliferation, hypertrophy, cell death, and osteoblastic replacement. The natriuretic peptide family consists of three structurally related endogenous ligands, atrial, brain, and C-type natriuretic peptides (ANP, BNP, and CNP), and is thought to be involved in a variety of homeostatic processes. To investigate the physiological significance of CNP in vivo, we generated mice with targeted disruption of CNP (Nppc(-/-) mice). The Nppc(-/-) mice show severe dwarfism as a result of impaired endochondral ossification. They are all viable perinatally, but less than half can survive during postnatal development. The skeletal phenotypes are histologically similar to those seen in patients with achondroplasia, the most common genetic form of human dwarfism. Targeted expression of CNP in the growth plate chondrocytes can rescue the skeletal defect of Nppc(-/-) mice and allow their prolonged survival. This study demonstrates that CNP acts locally as a positive regulator of endochondral ossification in vivo and suggests its pathophysiological and therapeutic implication in some forms of skeletal dysplasia.
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Teraguchi M, Yoshimura N, Hashizume H, Muraki S, Yamada H, Minamide A, Oka H, Ishimoto Y, Nagata K, Kagotani R, Takiguchi N, Akune T, Kawaguchi H, Nakamura K, Yoshida M. Prevalence and distribution of intervertebral disc degeneration over the entire spine in a population-based cohort: the Wakayama Spine Study. Osteoarthritis Cartilage 2014; 22:104-10. [PMID: 24239943 DOI: 10.1016/j.joca.2013.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 328] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Revised: 10/22/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purposes of this study were to investigate the prevalence and distribution of intervertebral disc degeneration (DD) over the entire spine using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and to examine the factors and symptoms potentially associated with DD. DESIGN This study included 975 participants (324 men, mean age of 67.2 years; 651 women, mean age of 66.0 years) with an age range of 21-97 years in the Wakayama Spine Study. DD on MRI was classified into Pfirrmann's system (grades 4 and 5 indicating DD). We assessed the prevalence of DD at each level in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions and the entire spine, and examined DD-associated factors and symptoms. RESULTS The prevalence of DD over the entire spine was 71% in men and 77% in women aged <50 years, and >90% in both men and women aged >50 years. The prevalence of an intervertebral space with DD was highest at C5/6 (men: 51.5%, women: 46%), T6/7 (men: 32.4%, women: 37.7%), and L4/5 (men: 69.1%, women: 75.8%). Age and obesity were associated with the presence of DD in all regions. Low back pain was associated with the presence of DD in the lumbar region. CONCLUSION The current study established the baseline data of DD over the entire spine in a large population of elderly individuals. These data provide the foundation for elucidating the causes and mechanisms of DD.
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Nakamura K, Watanabe T, Katayama K, Amano T. Some aspects of nonisothermal crystallization of polymers. I. Relationship between crystallization temperature, crystallinity, and cooling conditions. J Appl Polym Sci 1972. [DOI: 10.1002/app.1972.070160503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 325] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Vestergaard C, Yoneyama H, Murai M, Nakamura K, Tamaki K, Terashima Y, Imai T, Yoshie O, Irimura T, Mizutani H, Matsushima K. Overproduction of Th2-specific chemokines in NC/Nga mice exhibiting atopic dermatitis-like lesions. J Clin Invest 1999; 104:1097-105. [PMID: 10525048 PMCID: PMC408579 DOI: 10.1172/jci7613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 313] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We have examined the expression of chemokines and their receptors in the atopic dermatitis-like (AD-like) lesions of NC/Nga mice. Such lesions develop when the mice are kept in conventional conditions, but not when they are kept isolated from specific pathogens. The thymus- and activation-regulated chemokine TARC is unexpectedly highly expressed in the basal epidermis of 14-week-old mice with lesions, whereas it is not expressed in the skin without lesions. Production of TARC by keratinocytes was confirmed by culturing murine keratinocytic cell line cells (PAM212) with TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, or IL-1beta. Expression of another Th2 chemokine, macrophage-derived chemokine (MDC), was observed in the skin from mice kept in both conventional and pathogen-free conditions, but expression of MDC was increased severalfold in the skin with lesions. The cellular origin of MDC was identified to be dermal dendritic cells. Infiltration of the skin by IL-4-producing T cells and mast cells, and the increase of CCR4 mRNA in the skin, coincided with the development of AD lesions. These observations indicate that TARC and MDC actively participate in the pathogenesis of AD-like lesions in NC/Nga mice and that these Th2 chemokines could be novel targets for intervention therapy of AD in humans.
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