Lenacapavir and the novel HIV-1 capsid inhibitors: an emerging therapy in the management of multidrug-resistant HIV-1 virus

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The aim of this study was to summarize current evidence regarding lenacapavir, a first in class HIV-1 capsid inhibitor, and its role as an emergent therapy for the treatment of HIV-1 infection.

RECENT FINDINGS

HIV-1 capsid inhibitors (of which lenacapavir is the first in class) has been postulated to have activity against multidrug resistant HIV-1 viral isolates. Initial results from the phase 3 trial CAPELLA (combining oral and subcutaneous lenacapavir alongside failing drug therapies) suggest that there may be a role for these novel agents in a cohort of patients living with HIV-1 infection (PLWH) for whom multidrug resistance has previously been a barrier to effective therapy. Despite emergent lenacapavir resistance mutations detected in some study participants, virological suppression was still potentially attainable, offering some hope to PLWH with limited antiviral regimens available. Initial results from the CALIBRATE trial show promise for the role of lenacapavir-containing regimens in a treatment-naive cohort as well.

SUMMARY

Lenacapavir may prove to be an adjunctive agent in the management of PLWH with significant HIV-1 drug resistance.

Deformation characteristics of an organic thin film transistor

An organic thin film transistor (OTFT) on a flexible substrate with electroplated electrodes has many advantages in the fabrication of low cost sensors, e-paper, smart cards, and flexible displays. In this study, we simulated the mechanical characteristics of an OTFT with various compressive stress conditions using COMSOL. An analysis model, which was limited to channel, source, and drain, was used to investigate deformation and internal stress concentrations. The channel length is 40 microm and the OTFT structure is a top-contact structure. The OTFT was fabricated using pentacene as a semiconducting layer and electroplated Ni as a gate electrode. The deformation characteristics of the fabricated OTFT were predicted in terms of strain and internal stress.

Bioisosteric replacement of the .alpha.-amino carboxylic acid functionality in 2-amino-5-phosphonopentanoic acid yields unique 3,4-diamino-3-cyclobutene-1,2-dione containing NMDA antagonists

In this report, a novel bioisostere of the alpha-amino acid, 3,4-diamino-3-cyclobutene-1,2-dione, has been incorporated into a series of compounds which are NMDA antagonists. These compounds, which are achiral and easily prepared, demonstrated good affinity at the NMDA receptor by their ability to displace [3H]CPP binding in vitro. In particular, the phosphonic acid 24 provided protection against NMDA-induced lethality in mice equivalent to 2-amino-7-phosphonoheptanoic acid (5). This was considered an encouraging result in lieu of the fact that 24, like 5, lacks the conformational rigidity of the more potent NMDA antagonists. In addition, analogs that incorporate the 1,2,4-oxadiazolidine-3,5-dione heterocycle of quisqualic acid and the unsaturation of kainic acid were prepared to explore selectivity at the non-NMDA receptor subtypes.

Synthesis and biological activities of the two C(23) epimers of 1alpha,23,25-trihydroxy-24-oxo-19-nor-vitamin D(3): novel analogs of 1alpha,23(S),25-trihydroxy-24-oxo-vitamin D(3), a natural metabolite of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3)

In a previous report, we indicated that 1alpha,23(S), 25-trihydroxy-24-oxovitamin D(3) [1alpha,23(S), 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-D(3)], a natural metabolite of 1alpha, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D(3) [1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3)] is almost equipotent to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in suppressing parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion (Lee et al., 1997. Biochemistry 36, 9429-9437). Also, 1alpha,23(S),25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-D(3) has been shown to possess only weak in vivo calcemic actions. Thus, vitamin D(3) analogs structurally related to 1alpha,23(S),25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-D(3) may have therapeutic value. Furthermore, biologic activity studies of various synthetic analogs of 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) showed that the removal of carbon-19 (C-19) reduces the calcemic activity of 1alpha, 25(OH)(2)D(3.) Therefore, in an attempt to produce vitamin D(3) analogs with a better therapeutic index, we synthesized C(23) epimers of 1alpha,23,25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-vitamin D(3) [1alpha,23, 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3)]. The two epimers were compared to 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-19-nor-D(3) and 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3) in their ability to generate biologic activities in several in vitro assay systems. In the assay measuring the suppression of parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion in bovine parathyroid cells, 1alpha,23(S), 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3) was as potent as 1alpha, 25(OH)(2)-19-nor-D(3) but was less potent than 1alpha,25(OH)(2)D(3). In the same assay 1alpha,23(R),25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3) exhibited greater potency than 1alpha,23(S), 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3). In the assays measuring the ability of vitamin D compounds to inhibit clonal growth and to induce differentiation of human promyelocytic leukemia (HL-60) cells, 1alpha,23(S),25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3) was less potent than 1alpha,25(OH)(2)-19-nor-D(3) but was equipotent to 1alpha, 25(OH)(2)D(3). More importantly, in the same assays, 1alpha,23(R), 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3) was more potent than 1alpha,23(S), 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3) and was equipotent to 1alpha, 25(OH)(2)-19-nor-D(3). Also, the vitamin D receptor-mediated transcriptional activity of 1alpha,23(R), 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3) was almost equal to that of 1alpha, 25(OH)(2)-19-nor-D(3), but higher than that of 1alpha,23(S), 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3). This finding explains in part the greater in vitro biologic activities of 1alpha,23(R), 25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3). In summary, our results indicate that 1alpha,23(R),25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3) and to a lesser extent 1alpha,23(S),25(OH)(3)-24-oxo-19-nor-D(3) are potent 19-nor vitamin D(3) analogs, which suppress PTH secretion in bovine parathyroid cells and strongly inhibit clonal growth and induce differentiation of HL-60 cells in vitro.

X-ray spectra estimation using attenuation measurements from 25 kVp to 18 MV

Attenuation measurements for primary x-ray spectra from 25 kVp to 18 MV were made using aluminum filters for all energies except for orthovoltage where copper filters were used. An iterative perturbation method, which utilized these measurements, was employed to derive the apparent x-ray spectrum. An initial spectrum or pre-spectrum was used to start the process. Each energy value of the pre-spectrum was perturbed positively and negatively, and an attenuation curve was calculated using the perturbed values. The value of x-rays in the given energy bin was chosen to minimize the difference between the measured and calculated transmission curves. The goal was to derive the minimum difference between the measured transmission curve and the calculated transmission curve using the derived x-ray spectrum. The method was found to yield useful information concerning the lower photon energy and the actual operating potential versus the nominal potential. Mammographic, diagnostic, orthovoltage, and megavoltage x-ray spectra up to 18 MV nominal were derived using this method. The method was validated using attenuation curves from published literature. The method was also validated using attenuation curves calculated from published spectra. The attenuation curves were then used to derive the x-ray spectra.

Measured water transmission curves and calculated zero field size tumor maximum ratios for 4, 6, and 15 MV x-rays

A multihole diverging Cerrobend plug for megavoltage energies was used to measure water transmission values at different locations in a 20 x 20 cm field at 100 cm source-to-axis distance (SAD) for 4, 6, and 15 MV therapy photon beams. The transmission curves in water were measured at 25 locations across the 20 x 20 field, and each location was separated by 5 cm at the isocenter. Each transmission value was made using a 0.3175 cm diameter (0.079 cm2 area) hole of 20 cm length at the central axis (CAX). The small field measured transmission curve in water was used to derive the zero field size tumor maximum ratio (TMR) and the primary photon exposure spectrum as a function of energy at depth. The exposure spectrum was used to find an effective photon energy and linear attenuation coefficient at depth and at different locations in the field. These values were found to vary with location in the field.

Synthesis, stereochemistry, and biological activity of 1alpha,23,25-trihydroxy-24-oxovitamin D3, a major natural metabolite of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3

The C(23) epimers of 1alpha,23,25(OH)3-24-oxovitamin D3, a major natural metabolite of the secosteroid hormone, 1alpha,25(OH)2D3, were chemically synthesized for the first time. The metabolite was synthesized by palladium coupling of the appropriate CD ring analog with an A ring enyne. Various approaches from quinic acid to the A ring precursors were explored, and a new route to the A ring enyne from quinic acid was developed. The C(23) stereochemistry of the natural 1alpha,23,25(OH)3-24-oxovitamin D3 produced in neonatal human keratinocytes was determined to be S on the basis of the 1H NMR and the HPLC data. The biological activity of 1alpha,23(S), 25(OH)3-24-oxovitamin D3 in primary cultures of bovine parathyroid cells was determined by comparing the potency of this metabolite to that of 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 in suppression of parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion. The results indicate that 1alpha,23(S), 25(OH)3-24-oxovitamin D3 potently suppressed PTH secretion even at concentrations as low as 10(-)12 M and is equipotent with 1alpha, 25(OH)2D3. The high activity of 1alpha,23(S),25(OH)3-24-oxovitamin D3 cannot be explained on the basis of its affinity for the vitamin D receptor as this metabolite was found to be 10 times less effective than radioinert 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 in blocking the uptake and receptor binding of [3H]-1alpha,25(OH)2D3 in intact parathyroid cells. Further studies are required to explain the molecular basis for the activity of 1alpha,23(S),25(OH)3-24-oxovitamin D3 in its ability to suppress PTH secretion. In summary, our present study indicates that the C(23) stereochemistry of the natural 1alpha,23, 25(OH)3-24-oxovitamin D3 is S and this metabolite is equipotent to 1alpha,25(OH)2D3 in suppressing PTH secretion.

The competitive inhibition of Trichoderma reesei C30 cellobiohydrolase I by guanidine hydrochloride

The p-nitrophenylcellobiosidase (PNPCase) activity of Trichoderma reesei cellobiohydrolase I (CBH I) was competitively inhibited by concentrations of guanidine hydrochloride (Gdn HCl) that did not affect the tryptophan fluorescence of this enzyme. The Km of CBH I, 3.6 mM, was increased to 45.4 mM in the presence of 0.14 M Gdn HCl, the concentration that was required to inhibit the enzyme by 50%. A similar concentration of lithium chloride and urea had little effect on the PNPCase activity of CBH I. Maximal inhibition was pH dependent, occurring in the range of pH 4.0 to 5.0, which is in the range for maximal activity. Analysis of the inhibition data indicated that 1.2 molecules of Gdn HCl combined reversibly with 1 molecule of CBH I. Other hydrolases and proteases were also inhibited by Gdn HCl. It is suggested that the inhibition of CBH I by Gdn HCl occurs as a result of the interaction between the positively charged guanidinium group of Gdn HCl and the carboxylate group of glutamic acid 126, postulated to be in the catalytic center of this enzyme.

Comparison of the hydrolytic activity and fluorescence of native, guanidine hydrochloride-treated and renatured cellobiohydrolase I from Trichoderma reesei

Guanidine hydrochloride (GdnHCl) is an effective agent for the elution of cellulase protein from unhydrolyzed cellulosic residues, but once eluted the enzyme is inactive. The studies described in this paper examine the effect of GdnHCl on the hydrolytic activity and tryptophan fluorescence of cellobiohydrolase I (CBH I) from Trichoderma reesei. CBH I was found to be completely inactivated by 0.25 M GdnHCl, but higher concentrations of GdnHCl were required to partially unfold this enzyme, as determined from the measurement of a decrease in its tryptophan fluorescence. Binding of CBH I to microcrystalline cellulose was prevented by 4 M GdnHCl, suggesting that a conformational change of CBH I resulted in the loss of substrate binding. Removal of the denaturant from CBH I by dialysis or gel filtration allowed the kinetics of the reactivation of CBH I, after 4 M GdnHCl treatment, to be studied. The fluorescence and specific hydrolytic activity of native and renatured CBH I were comparable. It is concluded, therefore, that GdnHCl may be used to elute cellulase components, such as CBH I, adsorbed on undigested cellulosic substrates since this component can easily be renatured and subsequently reused.

N-phenyl-2-pyridinecarbothioamides as gastric mucosal protectants

A series of substituted 2-pyridinecarbothioamides was synthesized and evaluated for gastric mucosal protectant activity in the rat. Out of this investigation N-(3,5-difluorophenyl)-2- pyridinecarbothioamide (23, AY-31,574) was identified. This compound was much more potent than sucralfate and ranitidine against ethanol-induced lesions. Compound 23 was equipotent with ranitidine against gastric injury caused by stress. Unlike ranitidine, 23 was found to be devoid of antisecretory activity in the pylorus-ligated rat model, making it a selective mucosal protectant. Such a potent selective mucosal protectant may provide a novel clinical approach in treating ulcers.

Hydrolysis of cellulose by a mixture of Trichoderma reesei cellobiohydrolase and Aspergillus niger endoglucanase

Two endoglucanase-containing fractions were separated from Aspergillus niger cellulase by gel filtration and fast protein liquid chromatofocusing (FPLC). They possessed no ability to bind to or hydrolyze insoluble microcrystalline cellulose (Avicel) but were active toward soluble carboxymethylcellulose. No synergism was observed between Trichoderma reesei cellobiohydrolase I and either endoglucanase from A. niger. These findings may indicate that the role of the endoglucanase component of cellulase in insoluble microcrystalline cellulose hydrolysis is dependent upon its ability to be adsorbed upon the substrate.

The role of cellulase concentration in determining the degree of synergism in the hydrolysis of microcrystalline cellulose

Microcrystalline cellulose (10 mg of Avicel/ml) was hydrolysed to glucose by different concentrations of the purified cellulase components endoglucanase (EG) II and cellobiohydrolases (CBH) I and II, alone and in combination with each other, in the presence of excess beta-glucosidase. At a concentration of 360 micrograms/ml (160 micrograms of EG II/ml, 100 micrograms of CBH I/ml and 100 micrograms of CBH II/ml) the degree of synergism among them was negligible. As the concentration of cellulase decreased, the degree of synergism increased, reaching an optimum at 20 micrograms/ml (5 micrograms of EG II/ml, 10 micrograms of CBH I/ml and 5 micrograms of CBH II/ml). There was no apparent relationship between the ratio of the components and the degree of synergism. The latter is probably due, though it could not be proved, to the level of saturation of the substrate with each component. Inhibition of Avicel hydrolysis was observed when the substrate was incubated with saturating and nonsaturating concentrations of a mixture of EG II and CBH I respectively. A similar result was also observed with a combination of EG I and EG II.

Predominant expression of a T cell receptor V beta gene subfamily in autoimmune encephalomyelitis

TCR beta chain gene expression of individual T cell clones that share the same MHC class II restriction and similar fine specificity for the encephalitogenic NH2 terminus of the autoantigen myelin basic protein (MBP) has been examined. TCR V beta expression was examined by FACS analysis with mAbs specific for the V beta 8 subfamily of TCR beta chain genes. 14 of 18 (78%) NH2-terminal MBP-specific clones examined express a member of the TCR V beta 8 subfamily. Southern analysis was used to identify which member(s) of the TCR V beta 8 subfamily is expressed by these clones. Each of four clones examined uses V beta 8.2, though two different V beta 8.2-J beta 2 combinations were identified. Our findings indicate that there is restricted TCR V beta usage in the autoimmune T cell response to the dominant encephalitogenic NH2-terminal epitope of the MBP. The use of an mAb to the antigen-specific TCR in the prevention of T cell-mediated autoimmune disease has been investigated. Our results demonstrate that in vivo administration of a TCR V beta 8-specific mAb prevents induction of autoimmune encephalomyelitis.

T cell receptor beta-chain genes in BW5147 and other AKR tumors. Deletion order of murine V beta gene segments and possible 5' regulatory regions

The AKR thymoma BW5147 has rearranged both of its TCR beta-chain loci, using the same J beta region (J beta 2.5) in each, but with different V beta gene segments. Although the two rearrangements are expressed approximately equally in cytoplasmic RNA, the principle of allelic exclusion is maintained because only one rearrangement is in-frame and capable of encoding a functional protein. In hybridomas made with BW5147 as the fusion partner, this protein may combine with the alpha-chain protein derived from the normal cell to form new Ag/MHC specificities. An analysis of the sequences upstream from the BW5147 rearrangements and additional V regions suggests that two conserved sequences, 10 and nine nucleotides in length and located adjacent to each other 70 to 100 nucleotides 5' of the initiation codon, may be important in the expression of TCR beta-chain genes. Although B and T cells derive from common stem cells, no sequences are observed in T cells that are homologous to the octamer located 5' of all Ig genes. This implies that at least some of the sequences that regulate transcription are not shared in the two major types of lymphocytes. A survey of BW5147 and six other AKR thymomas using probes for 10 of the 18 known V region families indicates a distribution of V beta rearrangements in the tumors consistent with that found in thymocytes. Four of these tumors have apparent VDJ rearrangements on both chromosomes, with the deletion of other V beta gene segments. These data suggest that the primary mechanism of VDJ beta rearrangement is by looping out and excision of the intervening DNA and that most of the V regions are located 5' to the C region. These data were also used to develop a deletion order of the V beta gene segments in the TCR beta-chain locus.

T cell receptor beta-chain genes in BW5147 and other AKR tumors. Deletion order of murine V beta gene segments and possible 5' regulatory regions

The AKR thymoma BW5147 has rearranged both of its TCR beta-chain loci, using the same J beta region (J beta 2.5) in each, but with different V beta gene segments. Although the two rearrangements are expressed approximately equally in cytoplasmic RNA, the principle of allelic exclusion is maintained because only one rearrangement is in-frame and capable of encoding a functional protein. In hybridomas made with BW5147 as the fusion partner, this protein may combine with the alpha-chain protein derived from the normal cell to form new Ag/MHC specificities. An analysis of the sequences upstream from the BW5147 rearrangements and additional V regions suggests that two conserved sequences, 10 and nine nucleotides in length and located adjacent to each other 70 to 100 nucleotides 5' of the initiation codon, may be important in the expression of TCR beta-chain genes. Although B and T cells derive from common stem cells, no sequences are observed in T cells that are homologous to the octamer located 5' of all Ig genes. This implies that at least some of the sequences that regulate transcription are not shared in the two major types of lymphocytes. A survey of BW5147 and six other AKR thymomas using probes for 10 of the 18 known V region families indicates a distribution of V beta rearrangements in the tumors consistent with that found in thymocytes. Four of these tumors have apparent VDJ rearrangements on both chromosomes, with the deletion of other V beta gene segments. These data suggest that the primary mechanism of VDJ beta rearrangement is by looping out and excision of the intervening DNA and that most of the V regions are located 5' to the C region. These data were also used to develop a deletion order of the V beta gene segments in the TCR beta-chain locus.

Organization of the T-cell antigen-receptor beta-chain locus in mice

We used pulsed-field gel electrophoresis to determine the organization of the beta-chain gene of the T-cell receptor for antigen in normal and mutant inbred strains of mice. In normal mice, the variable (V)- and constant (C)- region elements of this locus span 700-800 kilobases of chromosomal DNA. All but one of the V beta gene segments analyzed lie 5' of the J beta C beta locus (J beta represents the joining region), with the closest being 280-360 kilobases away. The mutant mouse strain SJL has an internal V beta-region gene deletion that compacts the V beta region by 100-200 kilobases. Taken together with other data, these results indicate that the beta-chain locus can use either a looping-out/deletion or an inversion mechanism to appose V beta to DJ beta gene segments (D is the diversity region) and can accomplish the former (at least) over very large distances.

Molecular cloning of cDNA for human prostatic acid phosphatase

A human liver cDNA library in lambda gt11 was screened with polyclonal antiserum to human acid phosphatase isoenzyme 2a/4. About eleven positive clones have been obtained. Two clones, lambda Hap21 and lambda Hap22 were further characterized: clone lambda Hap21 contained a 0.8-kb cDNA insert and clone lambda Hap22 a 1.8-2.0-kb insert. XbaI digestion of lambda Hap22 generated two fragments of 1.0 and 0.9 kb. BglII digestion resulted in a 1.2-kb fragment and several smaller fragments of undetermined size. Clone lambda Hap22 contained all the genes carried by lambda gt11(lac5cI857nin5Sam100) and the 2-kb insert. An Escherichia coli(lambda Hap22) lysogen was generated, and its acid phosphatase activity was approximately ten-fold higher than that in the control nonlysogenic lysate. Western-blot analysis of total proteins present in this E. coli(lambda Hap22) lysate revealed that the non-induced lambda Hap22 prophage directed the synthesis of an approx. 175-kDa protein. This protein was recognized by antibody to the human acid phosphatase isoenzyme 2a/4 and anti-beta-galactosidase and was produced only upon induction with IPTG. These results indicated that lambda Hap22 carried a major portion of the gene coding for the human acid phosphatase isoenzyme 2a and/or 4 and this protein fragment of acid phosphatase was sufficient to manifest enzymatic activity.

Induction of mixed-function oxidase activity in mouse lymphoid tissues by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure can cause mixed-function oxidase (MFO) enzyme induction in certain tissues of various organisms. Measurement of such induction might serve as a useful bioindicator of human exposure to PAHs, provided readily obtainable human tissues can be utilized for such measurements. We have investigated the MFO activity in various lymphoid tissues of the C3H mouse as a model system and have studied the effect of systemic PAH treatment on such enzyme activity. An MFO enzyme assay was used to measure the activity of 7-ethoxyresorufin deethylase, an enzyme activity that may be specific for the cytochrome P-448 subset of MFO enzymes (those enzymes that are induced in cells or tissues following PAH administration). Intraperitoneal injection of mice with 180 mg/kg (4.6 mg) benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) or 160 mg/kg (4.0 mg) 3-methylcholanthrene (MC) produced a significant induction in MFO activity in mouse spleen S9 fractions 48 h after the injection. Induction ratios (induced activity/control activity) between 4 and 5 were seen with BaP; MC produced induction ratios of 2.5-3.0. Enzyme activity was not induced in the spleen within 16 h following BaP or MC administration. Other experiments indicated that MFO activity could be induced in thymus cells 48 h after either BaP or MC treatment. Treatment with BaP or MC did produce significant enzyme induction in the liver and lung tissues from the animals both 16 and 48 h after chemical treatment.

Murine T cell receptor beta chain is encoded on chromosome 6

Southern blot analysis of somatic cell hybrid lines indicates that the beta chain of the T cell receptor for antigen maps to chromosome 6 of the mouse. An experiment testing hybridization of the constant region of this gene to DNA from a hybrid cell line containing a translocation of chromosome 6 supports the localization of this gene to the proximal (centromeric) one-third of chromosome 6, in the same general region as the immunoglobulin kappa chain locus. This may be another indication of the shared evolutionary origins of the genes encoding both T and B cell antigen recognition.

Somatic recombination in a murine T-cell receptor gene

A putative T-cell receptor gene was isolated from the DNA of the helper hybridoma, 2B4 . Analysis of the sequence components of this rearranged gene indicates the presence of separate variable (V), diversity (D) and joining (J) region elements analogous to those of heavy-chain immunoglobulins. These findings further support the belief that the products of this locus are involved in antigen recognition by T cells. There is no evidence of somatic mutation between the putative germ-line and the expressed variable-region gene.

Use of laser-excited fluorescence to measure mixed-function oxidase activity

The microsomal mixed-function oxidase (MFO) system is involved in the metabolism of various chemical compounds. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are metabolized by the cytochrome P-448 enzyme system, which contains MFOs. Induction of this MFO activity may be useful as an indicator of the toxicity of the inducer material. We have successfully used a portable centrifugal analyzer equipped with an argonion laser light source to quantify cytochrome P-448 activity induced in mouse-liver microsomes by exposing the animal's skin to different doses of liquids derived from a coal-liquefaction process. The MFO activity was determined kinetically by measuring the rate at which the highly fluorescent compound, resorufin, produced by the oxidation of 7-ethoxyresorufin substrate, was formed. The 514.5-nm laser excitation beam was directed with a fiber-optic bundle from the laser to the cuvets of a specially designed rotor; emitted fluorescence was monitored at 90 degrees to the incident beam through a 560-nm cut-on secondary filter. Use of the laser excitation source allowed very low MFO activities to be measured: picomole quantities of resorufin could be determined. We anticipate that the increased sensitivity of the method described here will allow MFO activities to be determined in body fluids and skin.

Use of laser-excited fluorescence to measure mixed-function oxidase activity

The microsomal mixed-function oxidase (MFO) system is involved in the metabolism of various chemical compounds. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are metabolized by the cytochrome P-448 enzyme system, which contains MFOs. Induction of this MFO activity may be useful as an indicator of the toxicity of the inducer material. We have successfully used a portable centrifugal analyzer equipped with an argonion laser light source to quantify cytochrome P-448 activity induced in mouse-liver microsomes by exposing the animal's skin to different doses of liquids derived from a coal-liquefaction process. The MFO activity was determined kinetically by measuring the rate at which the highly fluorescent compound, resorufin, produced by the oxidation of 7-ethoxyresorufin substrate, was formed. The 514.5-nm laser excitation beam was directed with a fiber-optic bundle from the laser to the cuvets of a specially designed rotor; emitted fluorescence was monitored at 90 degrees to the incident beam through a 560-nm cut-on secondary filter. Use of the laser excitation source allowed very low MFO activities to be measured: picomole quantities of resorufin could be determined. We anticipate that the increased sensitivity of the method described here will allow MFO activities to be determined in body fluids and skin.

Automated system for fractionation of blood samples

We describe a prototype system for preparing multiple fractions of blood components (plasma, washed erythrocytes, and hemolysates) by use of automated techniques. The procedure is based on centrifugal separation and sample transfer by induced pressure differentials in a blood-processing vessel (rotor) that has been designed to process 24 samples simultaneously. Erythrocytes are sedimented against the outer walls of individual sample chambers, and plasma is siphoned, by imposition of either a slight positive or negative pressure, into individual reservoirs in a collection ring. Cells are washed in situ; samples of washed cells, either packed or in saline solution, can be recovered. Cellular hemolysates are automatically prepared and transferred to individual, commercially available collection vials, ready for immediate analysis or for storage in liquid nitrogen. The system has potential application in any biomedical area in which many samples are to be expeditiously analyzed and in which one or more of the blood fractions will be used. A separate unit has been designed and developed for the semiautomated cleaning of the rotor.

Automated system for fractionation of blood samples

We describe a prototype system for preparing multiple fractions of blood components (plasma, washed erythrocytes, and hemolysates) by use of automated techniques. The procedure is based on centrifugal separation and sample transfer by induced pressure differentials in a blood-processing vessel (rotor) that has been designed to process 24 samples simultaneously. Erythrocytes are sedimented against the outer walls of individual sample chambers, and plasma is siphoned, by imposition of either a slight positive or negative pressure, into individual reservoirs in a collection ring. Cells are washed in situ; samples of washed cells, either packed or in saline solution, can be recovered. Cellular hemolysates are automatically prepared and transferred to individual, commercially available collection vials, ready for immediate analysis or for storage in liquid nitrogen. The system has potential application in any biomedical area in which many samples are to be expeditiously analyzed and in which one or more of the blood fractions will be used. A separate unit has been designed and developed for the semiautomated cleaning of the rotor.

Automated elution electrophoresis: a potential clinical tool

An elution electrophoresis system in which a porous packed bed is used for separation and a flow photometer or colorimeter for continuous monitoring of the eluate may be capable of rapid, high-resolution analysis of serum proteins and other protein mixtures with very little manual labor. In a prototype of such a system we used a cooled separations column, 3 mm in diameter and 40 cm long, containing polyacrylamide beads. Samples are introduced, via a microsyringe, through a septum at the column midpoint. Typical analyses for serum proteins or serum isoenzymes require an electrophoresis time of about 30 min at 1200 V.