Significance of serum levels of HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 in patients with gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Human epididymis protein 4 (HE4), carbohydrate antigen 72-4 (CA72-4), and gastrin-17 (G-17) are involved in the development of gastric cancer. Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection is a known pathogenic factor associated with gastric cancer.

AIM

To investigate the significance of serum levels of HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 in patients with gastric cancer.

METHODS

One hundred patients with gastric cancer treated at our hospital from January 2016 to January 2020 were retrospectively selected as research subjects, and they were divided into either an infection group (n = 79) or a non-infection group (n = 21) according to H. pylori infection status. Clinical data and serum levels of HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 were compared between the two groups. The relationship between serum levels of HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 and H. pylori infection was analyzed. Serum HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 levels and H. pylori infection of patients with different clinical outcomes were compared. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to evaluate the predictive value of serum levels of HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 and H. pylori infection in patients with gastric cancer.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in gender, age, clinical stage, depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, or distant metastasis between the two groups (P > 0.05). The levels of serum HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 in the infection group were significantly higher than those in the non-infection group (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed that serum HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 levels were significantly correlated with H. pylori infection in gastric cancer patients (P < 0.05). The levels of HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 and H. pylori infection in dead patients with gastric cancer were higher than those in surviving patients (P < 0.05). ROC curve analysis showed that the AUC of HE4, CA72-4, G-17, and H. pylori infection combined to predict the clinical outcome of patients with gastric cancer was 0.900, which was higher than that of any one of them alone.

CONCLUSION

Serum levels of HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 in patients with gastric cancer infected with H. pylori are significantly increased. Clinical detection of HE4, CA72-4, and G-17 is helpful to predict the clinical outcome of patients with gastric cancer.

Further studies of ion channels in the electroreceptor of the skate through deep sequencing, cloning and cross species comparisons

Our comparative studies seek to understand the structure and function of ion channels in cartilaginous fish that can detect very low voltage gradients in seawater. The principal channels of the electroreceptor include a calcium activated K channel whose α subunit is Kcnma1, and a voltage-dependent calcium channel, Cacna1d. It has also been suggested based on physiological and pharmacological evidence that a voltage-gated K channel is present in the basal membranes of the receptor cells which modulates synaptic transmitter release. Large conductance calcium-activated K channels (BK) are comprised of four α subunits, encoded by Kcnma1 and modulatory β subunits of the Kcnmb class. We recently cloned and published the skate Kcnma1 gene and most of Kcnmb4 using purified mRNA of homogenized electroreceptors. Bellono et al. have recently performed RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) on purified mRNA from skate electroreceptors and found several ion channels including Kcnma1. We searched the Bellono et al. RNA-seq repository for additional channels and subunits. Our most significant findings are the presence of two Shaker type voltage dependent K channel sequences which are grouped together as isoforms in the data repository. The larger of these is a skate ortholog of the voltage dependent fast potassium channel Kv1.1, which is expressed at appreciable levels. The second ortholog is similar to Kv1.5 but has fewer N-terminal amino acids than other species. The sequence for Kv1.5 in the skate is very strongly aligned with the recently reported sequence for potassium channels in the electroreceptors of the cat shark, S. retifer, which also modulate synaptic transmission. The latter channel was designated as Kv1.3 in the initial report, but we suggest that these channels are actually orthologs of each other, and that Kv1.5 is the prevailing designation. We also found a beta subunit sequence (Kcnab2) which may co-assemble with one or both of the voltage gated channels. The new channels and subunits were verified by RT-PCR and the Kv1.1 sequence was confirmed by cloning. We also searched the RNA-seq repository for accessory subunits of Kcnma1, and found a computer-generated assembly that contained a complete sequence of its β subunit, Kcnmb2. Skate Kcnmb2 has a total of 279 amino acids, with 51 novel amino acids at the N-terminus which may play a specific physiological role. This sequence was confirmed by PCR and cloning. However, skate Kcnmb2 is expressed at low levels in the electroreceptor compared to Kcnma1 and skate Kcnmb1 is absent. The evolutionary origin of the newly described K channels and their subunits was studied by alignments with mammalian sequences, including human, and also those in related fish: the whale shark (R. typus), the ghost shark (C.milii), and (S. retifer). There are also orthologous K channels of the lamprey, which has electroreceptors. Tree building and bootstrap programs were used to confirm phylogenetic inferences. Further research should focus on the subcellular locations of these channels, their gating behavior, and the effects of accessory subunits on gating.

Cardioprotective effects of fucoidan against hypoxia-induced apoptosis in H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells

CONTEXT

Cardiomyocyte apoptosis plays a critical role in the progress of heart diseases. Fucoidan, a complex-sulfated polysaccharide, has been reported to possess potential cardioprotective efficacy in vivo.

OBJECTIVE

The present study determines whether fucoidan could provide cardioprotection on hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

H9c2 cardiomyoblast cells were incubated with various concentrations (15, 30, and 60 μg/ml) of fucoidan in a humidified incubator at 37 °C with 95% O2 and 5% CO2. After 6 h, hypoxia was processed and the cardioprotective effects of fucoidan were evaluated by applying MTT, ELISA, Hoechst 33258 nucleus staining, and western blot.

RESULTS

Following a 6 h exposure of H9c2 to hypoxic condition, significant reduction was found in cell survival (0.57-fold) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (0.56-fold), which were associated with the increase of malondialdehyde (MDA) level (2.58-fold), creatine phosphokinase (CK, 3.57-fold), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities (2.39-fold). Moreover, hypoxia-induced apoptosis was confirmed by Hoechst 33258 nuclear staining, and these changes were accompanied by the increase of Bcl-2 (1.27-fold) and Bax expression (2.6-fold). However, preincubation of the cells with fucoidan prior to hypoxia exposure elevated the cell viability (30 μg/ml, 1.18-fold; 60 μg/ml, 1.32-fold) and SOD activity (30 μg/ml, 1.12-fold; 60 μg/ml, 1.25-fold), but decreased the MDA level (30 μg/ml, 0.70-fold; 60 μg/ml, 0.80-fold), CK (30 μg/ml, 0.69-fold; 60 μg/ml, 0.76-fold), and LDH (30 μg/ml, 0.67-fold; 60 μg/ml, 0.86-fold) leakages. Hoechst 33258 nuclear staining observations demonstrated the same protective effect of fucoidan on hypoxia-induced myocardial injury. Also, cardioprotective effects of fucoidan were reflected by increasing Bcl-2 (60 μg/ml, 1.84-fold), as well as decreasing Bax (60 μg/ml, 0.6-fold).

CONCLUSION

Fucoidan had protective effect against hypoxia-induced cardiomyocytes apoptosis, and the mechanism might involve protections of the cell from oxidative injury.

[Isolation and identification of two new secoiridoids of water-soluble chemical constituents from the fruits of Ligustrum lucidum Ait]

Two new secoiridoids named as specnuezhenide (I) and nuezhengalaside (II) were isolated from the water-soluble part of dry fruits of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. Their structures were established on the basis of chemical analysis and spectral data (UV, IR, 1H-NMR, NOEDS, HOMO-DEC, 13C-NMR, DEPT and MS).

Idiotype-specific T helper clones recognize a variable H chain determinant

Previously we described a Th clone specific for a regulatory idiotype on 3A4, an anti-Id mAb that mimics a murine L1210/GZL tumor-associated Ag. In our studies, we determined the molecular target on the stimulating anti-Id antibody that is recognized by the Th clone. The Th clone responds with proliferation to the H chain of 3A4 but not to the L chain. Furthermore, the 3A4 chain stimulates this Th clone more efficiently than either the intact 3A4 or the Fab fragments, and the presentation by APC of the H chain is more resistant to chloroquine treatment than the presentation of the intact 3A4 molecule. These results suggest that regulatory T cells "see" their target idiotopes as linear sequence determinants present on isolated Ig chains, and show that this might have biologic advantages with respect to the mechanism of Ag presentation.

Idiotype-specific T helper clones recognize a variable H chain determinant

Previously we described a Th clone specific for a regulatory idiotype on 3A4, an anti-Id mAb that mimics a murine L1210/GZL tumor-associated Ag. In our studies, we determined the molecular target on the stimulating anti-Id antibody that is recognized by the Th clone. The Th clone responds with proliferation to the H chain of 3A4 but not to the L chain. Furthermore, the 3A4 chain stimulates this Th clone more efficiently than either the intact 3A4 or the Fab fragments, and the presentation by APC of the H chain is more resistant to chloroquine treatment than the presentation of the intact 3A4 molecule. These results suggest that regulatory T cells "see" their target idiotopes as linear sequence determinants present on isolated Ig chains, and show that this might have biologic advantages with respect to the mechanism of Ag presentation.

Tumor idiotype vaccines. VI. Synergistic anti-tumor effects with combined "internal image" anti-idiotypes and chemotherapy

Anti-Id antibodies that have biologic activity as stimulators of specific immunity have been used in experimental vaccines and tumor protection models. However, very little is known about the therapeutic potential of anti-Id antibodies in animals and men. In this study we explored the combination of anti-Id and chemotherapy in a murine tumor system for which we had previously generated protective anti-Id mAb. First, we investigated various protocols by using a protective anti-Id in active immunization. Mice preimmunized before tumor transfer and challenged again after tumor survived significantly longer. Next, we explored the use of soluble anti-Id as immunostimulator in tumor-bearing mice. Although this treatment did not induce long-term survival, it significantly increased survival time. Interestingly, this anti-Id effect was dose dependent, whereby large and small doses had no effect. Finally, stimulatory anti-Id therapy and cyclophosphamide (Cy) treatment was combined. Tumor bearing mice were given a single dose of Cy followed by different doses of soluble anti-Id. The optimal effect on tumor growth and survival was achieved with 80 mg/kg Cy and 10 micrograms/mouse of anti-Id, where 80% of mice survived longer than 100 days. These results provide guidelines for developing clinical protocols for cancer patients by using combination therapy of anti-Id and chemotherapy.

Tumor idiotype vaccines. VI. Synergistic anti-tumor effects with combined "internal image" anti-idiotypes and chemotherapy

Anti-Id antibodies that have biologic activity as stimulators of specific immunity have been used in experimental vaccines and tumor protection models. However, very little is known about the therapeutic potential of anti-Id antibodies in animals and men. In this study we explored the combination of anti-Id and chemotherapy in a murine tumor system for which we had previously generated protective anti-Id mAb. First, we investigated various protocols by using a protective anti-Id in active immunization. Mice preimmunized before tumor transfer and challenged again after tumor survived significantly longer. Next, we explored the use of soluble anti-Id as immunostimulator in tumor-bearing mice. Although this treatment did not induce long-term survival, it significantly increased survival time. Interestingly, this anti-Id effect was dose dependent, whereby large and small doses had no effect. Finally, stimulatory anti-Id therapy and cyclophosphamide (Cy) treatment was combined. Tumor bearing mice were given a single dose of Cy followed by different doses of soluble anti-Id. The optimal effect on tumor growth and survival was achieved with 80 mg/kg Cy and 10 micrograms/mouse of anti-Id, where 80% of mice survived longer than 100 days. These results provide guidelines for developing clinical protocols for cancer patients by using combination therapy of anti-Id and chemotherapy.

Idiotypic intramolecular help. Induction of tumor-specific antibodies by monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody with the help of Fc-specific T helper clones

In this study, the mechanism of anti-Id vaccination was investigated by using cloned Th cells and an anti-idiotypic mAb. 2F10, an anti-idiotypic mAb derived from an Igh1-e allotype mouse strain, which induces protection against the L1210/GZL DBA/2 tumor, was used to prime DBA/2 mice. An Fc (Igh1-e)-specific syngeneic Th clone was cocultured in the presence of 2F10 anti-Id with 2F10-Fab-primed B cells. The Th clone responded with proliferation and also provided help for 2F10-Fab-primed B cells to produce antibodies that bind to L1210/GZL and not to P815 tumor cells. Intact 2F10 anti-Id was presented to Fc-specific Th cells by Fab (or Id) primed B cells more efficiently than the fragment mixture (Fab plus Fc) of 2F10 anti-Id, indicating that 2F10-Fab (or Id)-primed B cells capture 2F10 anti-Id through surface Ig receptors. Presenting B cells are sensitive to treatment with chloroquine and must come from H-2 matched mice, indicating that the Ag presentation by Fab-primed B cells to Fc-specific Th cells requires processing and is MHC restricted. Collectively these results outline a mechanism that may operate in anti-Id therapy of tumor-bearing animals by using tumor Ag mimicking anti-idiotypic antibodies. A similar mechanism could be effective in tumor patients immunized with xenogeneic anti-idiotypic antibodies operating under the "intra(Ag) molecular help."

Idiotypic intramolecular help. Induction of tumor-specific antibodies by monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody with the help of Fc-specific T helper clones

In this study, the mechanism of anti-Id vaccination was investigated by using cloned Th cells and an anti-idiotypic mAb. 2F10, an anti-idiotypic mAb derived from an Igh1-e allotype mouse strain, which induces protection against the L1210/GZL DBA/2 tumor, was used to prime DBA/2 mice. An Fc (Igh1-e)-specific syngeneic Th clone was cocultured in the presence of 2F10 anti-Id with 2F10-Fab-primed B cells. The Th clone responded with proliferation and also provided help for 2F10-Fab-primed B cells to produce antibodies that bind to L1210/GZL and not to P815 tumor cells. Intact 2F10 anti-Id was presented to Fc-specific Th cells by Fab (or Id) primed B cells more efficiently than the fragment mixture (Fab plus Fc) of 2F10 anti-Id, indicating that 2F10-Fab (or Id)-primed B cells capture 2F10 anti-Id through surface Ig receptors. Presenting B cells are sensitive to treatment with chloroquine and must come from H-2 matched mice, indicating that the Ag presentation by Fab-primed B cells to Fc-specific Th cells requires processing and is MHC restricted. Collectively these results outline a mechanism that may operate in anti-Id therapy of tumor-bearing animals by using tumor Ag mimicking anti-idiotypic antibodies. A similar mechanism could be effective in tumor patients immunized with xenogeneic anti-idiotypic antibodies operating under the "intra(Ag) molecular help."

Characterization of "regulatory" idiotope-specific T cell clones to a monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody mimicking a tumor-associated antigen (TAA)

As reported previously, 3A4 is a paratope-specific anti-idiotypic mAb and induces cellular and humoral anti-tumor-associated Ag (TAA) responses. In this study, the specificity, MHC restriction and Ag processing requirement of Th cell lines and clones were determined that recognize an idiotypic determinant (Id) on 3A4. The anti-Id-3A4 is part of a tumor-associated idiotypic network which is involved in the regulation of the immunity against the DBA/2 L1210/GZL tumor. These 3A4-Id-specific T cell clones are phenotypically Th cells and recognize Id in the context of MHC class II molecules under MHC restriction. Moreover, the recognition of Id by these T cell clones is chloroquine sensitive, suggesting that they recognize processed Id. However, the 3A4-Id-specific T cell clones respond only to 3A4 and not to TAA. Because these clones do not recognize TAA, their biologic role in antitumor immunity could be as regulatory T cells involved in the idiotypic network regulation.

Characterization of "regulatory" idiotope-specific T cell clones to a monoclonal anti-idiotypic antibody mimicking a tumor-associated antigen (TAA)

As reported previously, 3A4 is a paratope-specific anti-idiotypic mAb and induces cellular and humoral anti-tumor-associated Ag (TAA) responses. In this study, the specificity, MHC restriction and Ag processing requirement of Th cell lines and clones were determined that recognize an idiotypic determinant (Id) on 3A4. The anti-Id-3A4 is part of a tumor-associated idiotypic network which is involved in the regulation of the immunity against the DBA/2 L1210/GZL tumor. These 3A4-Id-specific T cell clones are phenotypically Th cells and recognize Id in the context of MHC class II molecules under MHC restriction. Moreover, the recognition of Id by these T cell clones is chloroquine sensitive, suggesting that they recognize processed Id. However, the 3A4-Id-specific T cell clones respond only to 3A4 and not to TAA. Because these clones do not recognize TAA, their biologic role in antitumor immunity could be as regulatory T cells involved in the idiotypic network regulation.