Gene expression of the p16(INK4a)-Rb and p19(Arf)-p53-p21(Cip/Waf1) signaling pathways in the regulation of hematopoietic stem cell aging by ginsenoside Rg1

The elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of traditional Chinese medicines in clinical practice is a key step toward their worldwide application, and this topic is currently a subject of intense research interest. Rg1, a component of ginsenoside, has recently been shown to perform several pharmacological functions; however, the underlying mechanisms of these effects remain unclear. In the present study, we investigated whether Rg1 has an anti-senescence effect on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) and the possible molecular mechanisms driving any effects. The results showed that Rg1 could effectively delay tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-induced senescence and inhibit gene expression in the p16(INK4a)-Rb and p19(Arf)-p53-p21(Cip/Waf1) signaling pathways in HSCs. Our study suggested that these two signaling pathways might be potential targets for elucidating the molecular mechanisms of the Rg1 anti-senescence effect.

Primary ovarian leiomyosarcoma associated with Brenner tumor

BACKGROUND

Primary ovarian leiomyosarcoma (POL) is rare. To the best of our knowledge, POL associated with a Brenner tumor has not been previously documented.

CASE

A case of POL associated with a Brenner tumor is reported. Although the poorly differentiated component of the tumor was negative for SMA, the presence of spindle cells in the higher differentiated component with fascicle arrangement and immunoreactivity for SMA and strong staining of a poorly differentiated component for desmin and vimentin established the diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

This case indicates that since malignant tumor cells may lose some antigen markers, thorough sampling and immunohistochemistry are necessary. EMA-immunopositivity only could not preclude the diagnosis of leiomyosarcoma.