Expression of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Markers in Epidermal Layer of Atopic Dermatitis

The epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a phenomenon, in which epithelial cells acquire a mesenchymal cell phenotype. It is important during wound healing; however, chronic inflammation leads to excessive EMT and causes tissue barrier dysfunction with hyperplasia. EMT is induced by several cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13. Additionally, IL-4 and IL-13 are known to increase in atopic dermatitis (AD) characterized by intense itching and eczema. Therefore, we assumed that there was commonality between the respective EMT and AD phenotypes. Herein, we evaluated EMT marker expression in AD skin and demonstrated that EMT-maker Snai1 and Twist expression were increased in AD mice model and patients with AD. Moreover, the epithelial-marker keratin 5 and mesenchymal marker Vimentin were co-expressed in the skin epidermis of mice with AD, suggesting the existence of hybrid epithelial-mesenchymal (E/M) cells possessing both epithelial and mesenchymal characteristics. In fact, we found that ΔNp63a, a stabilizing factor for hybrid E/M cells, was upregulated in the skin epidermis of the AD model mouse. Interestingly, increased expression of EMT markers was observed even at a nonlesion site in a patient with AD without initial inflammation or scratching. Therefore, EMT-like phenomena may occur independently of wound healing in skin of patients with AD.

Safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of a 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine, V116, in Japanese healthy adults: A Phase I study

V116 is an investigational 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV) to address the burden of residual adult pneumococcal disease after the introduction of pediatric PCVs into national immunization programs (NIPs) and includes serotypes highly prevalent in adult invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). This Phase I study assessed the safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of V116 in Japanese adults. Participants ≥20 years of age were randomized to receive a single dose of V116 or 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPSV23) at day 1. Outcomes were solicited injection-site and systemic adverse events (AEs) from day 1 to day 5, vaccine-related serious AEs from day 1 through day 30, and serotype-specific opsonophagocytic antibody (OPA) titers and immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations at day 30. Overall, 102 participants were randomized 1:1 to each group. Comparable proportions vaccinated with V116 and PPSV23 experienced ≥1 solicited injection-site AE and ≥1 solicited systemic AE. The most common injection-site AEs were injection-site pain (V116: 54.9%; PPSV23: 66.7%) and swelling (V116 and PPSV23: 13.7%), and the most common systemic AEs were myalgia (V116: 17.6%; PPSV23: 19.6%) and fatigue (V116: 13.7%; PPSV23: 9.8%). Solicited AEs were mostly mild and of ≤3 days duration. No vaccine-related serious AEs or deaths were reported. The OPA and IgG findings showed that the immunogenicity of V116 and PPSV23 were comparable for the 12 common serotypes and V116 was more immunogenic for the nine unique serotypes compared with PPSV23. V116 was well tolerated, with a safety profile similar to PPSV23, and induced functional antibodies against all 21 serotypes.

Safety and immunogenicity of 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in Japanese healthy infants: A phase III study (V114-033)

BACKGROUND

This phase III study evaluated safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity of V114 (15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine) in Japanese infants. V114 contains all 13 serotypes in PCV13 plus additional serotypes 22F and 33F.

METHODS

Healthy Japanese infants were randomized to receive three primary doses of V114 or PCV13 (dose 1 at 2-6 months of age; doses 2 and 3 ≥ 27 days after prior dose), plus a toddler dose at 12-15 months of age. Adverse events (AEs) were collected on Days 1-14 following each vaccination. Serotype-specific anti-pneumococcal immunoglobulin G (IgG) was measured 30 days post-dose 3, pre-dose 4, and 30 days post-dose 4. Primary objectives included non-inferiority of V114 to PCV13 for the 13 shared serotypes based on serotype-specific IgG response rates (IgG ≥ 0.35 μg/mL) and geometric mean concentration (GMC) ratios, and for serotypes 22F and 33F based on IgG response rates and compared with the lowest response of any serotype in the PCV13 group, at 30 days post-dose 3.

RESULTS

Overall, 694 infants were randomized to V114 (n = 347) or PCV13 (n = 347). Proportions of participants with solicited and serious AEs were comparable between vaccination groups. V114 met non-inferiority criteria for all 13shared serotypes, based on difference in proportion of responders (lower bound of two-sided 95 % confidence interval [CI] > -10.0) and IgG GMC ratios (V114/PCV13, lower bound of two-sided 95 % CI > 0.5) at 30 days post-dose 3. The non-inferiority criterion based on IgG response rates was met for serotype 22F, but narrowly missed for serotype 33F (90.9 %, lower bound of two-sided 95 % CI -10.6).

CONCLUSION

In Japanese infants, a four-dose series of V114 was generally well tolerated. Compared with PCV13, V114 provided non-inferior immune responses to the 13 shared serotypes and higher immune responses to serotype 22F and 33F post-primary series.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04384107; EudraCT 2019-003644-68.

Safety and Immunogenicity of V114, a 15-valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine, Compared With 13- valent Pneumococcal Vaccine in Japanese Adults Aged ≥65 Years: Subgroup Analysis of a Randomized Phase III Trial (PNEU-AGE)

The safety and immunogenicity of V114, a 15-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV), was assessed in a pivotal Phase III trial in healthy adults ≥50 years of age (NCT03950622, Japic-CTI 194845). We report a subgroup analysis of 245 Japanese participants (all ≥65 years of age). Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive a single dose of V114 or 13-valent PCV (PCV13). Immune responses were evaluated at baseline and 30 days post-vaccination. Non-serious and serious adverse events (AEs) were evaluated post-vaccination through 14 days and 6 months, respectively. Proportions of participants experiencing solicited and serious AEs were comparable for both vaccines; all solicited AEs were mild or moderate in severity. Serotype-specific opsonophagocytic activity (OPA) geometric mean titers at 30 days post-vaccination were comparable between groups for all 13 shared serotypes and higher with V114 for the unique serotypes 22F and 33F. Proportions of participants with a ≥4-fold rise in serotype-specific OPA responses from pre-vaccination to 30 days post-vaccination were higher with V114 than PCV13 for serotypes 3, 22F, and 33F. V114 was well tolerated and immunogenic in Japanese adults ≥65 years of age, with safety and immunogenicity profiles consistent with that seen in the overall study population.

Improving the electron spin properties of nitrogen-vacancy centres in nanodiamonds by near-field etching

The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centre in diamond is a promising candidate for quantum computing applications and magnetic sensing applications, because it is an atomic-scale defect with stable coherence time (T2) and reliable accessibility at room temperature. We demonstrated a method for improving the NV spin properties (the full width half maximum (FWHM) value of the magnetic resonance spectrum and T2) through a near-field (NF) etching method under ambient conditions. The NF etching method, based on a He-Cd ultraviolet laser (325 nm), which is longer than the absorption edge of the oxygen molecule, enabled selective removal of defects on the nanodiamond surface. We observed a decrease in the FWHM value close to 15% and an increase in T2 close to 25%. Since our technique can be easily reproduced, a wide range of NV centre applications could be improved, especially magnetic sensing applications. Our results are especially attractive, because they have been obtained under ambient conditions and only require a light source with wavelength slightly above the O2 absorption edge.

Plasma as a Scaffold for Regeneration of Neural Precursor Cells after Transplantation into Rats with Spinal Cord Injury

The present study investigated whether plasma could be useful as a scaffold for cell transplantation in rats with spinal cord injury (SCI). Transplantation of cells with plasma promoted the recovery of SCI-induced motor dysfunction. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that the grafted cells had differentiated into the neural lineage. When dissociated neural precursor cells were cultured with plasma, extensive neurite outgrowth was observed along with increased expression of p35 and NF68. Neural markers were also expressed by the cultured cells. Culture with plasma reduced thymidine incorporation, but promoted cell growth and increased the RNA contents. These findings suggest that the cells underwent differentiation into neurons in the presence of plasma. In conclusion, plasma could be a promising scaffold for cell transplantation therapy.

Abstract P4-04-12: Enhancing the immunogenicity of breast cancer cells to stimulate innate immunity and augment the effects of cellular immunotherapy

A promising strategy for treating metastatic breast cancer is engaging the immune system to destroy disseminated breast cancer cells. However, breast cancer is a challenge for immunotherapy because of its inherent genetic heterogeneity and decreased immunogenicity. There is an unmet need to develop new, targeted therapies for breast cancer that stimulate the immune system and can be used in combination with checkpoint blockade or adoptive cell transfer to fight metastatic disease. One potential approach is to generate dying breast cancer cells that operate like a vaccine to stimulate a tumor-specific immune response. This is termed immunogenic cell death (ICD) and is characterized by a unique molecular signature, involving the release of molecules that attract and stimulate phagocytes like dendritic cells (DCs) and that could sensitize tumor cells to killing by natural killer (NK) cells. With the discovery of new ICD-inducing agents, interest in this approach is increasing. However, the current doses of drugs used to induce ICD may be too high to translate into clinically relevant regimens. To address these problems, our group developed a novel cytotoxic peptide, CT20p, and a nanotechnology-based platform to deliver and concentrate CT20p in breast tumors. We found that treatment of a murine xenograft model with nanomolar amounts of CT20p, encapsulated in nanoparticles formed with a novel hyperbranched polyester polymer (HBPE-NPs), resulted in regression of breast cancer tumors, and that dying breast cancer cells expressed markers characteristic of ICD, such as the pre-mortem exposure of the "eat me" signal, calreticulin (Crt). The intracellular target of CT20p is a protein called chaperonin-containing T-complex (CCT), which is essential for the folding of actin and tubulin and other critical proteins into their native forms. Disruption of CCT could cause endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress through the accumulation of misfolded proteins. ER stress in turn initiates intracellular pathways that generate the danger signals associate with ICD. To this end, we observed that cancer cells treated with CT20p displayed alterations in PERK, a key mediator of the unfolded protein response (UPR) and translocation of Crt. As a result, CT20p-treated cancer cells were more readily phagocytosed. More importantly, NK cells more effectively killed cancer cells pre-treated with CT20p. This suggests that CT20p may stimulate NK cell cytotoxicity by inducing activating signals on cancer cells, which would greatly augment the curative effects of adoptive transfer of NK cells. In our experiments normal breast epithelial cells, macrophages or NK cells, themselves, were unaffected by CT20p treatment due reduced CCT. These studies indicate that a single molecule, CT20p, can do both the killing of cancer cells and activation of immune cells and can be combined with cellular immunotherapy (e.g. expanded NK cells) to provide a more complete protection from breast cancer recurrence and metastasis.

Citation Format: Khaled AR, Limaye A, Bassiouni R, Showalter A, Oyer J, Pandey V, Igarashi R, Altomare DA, Copik AJ. Enhancing the immunogenicity of breast cancer cells to stimulate innate immunity and augment the effects of cellular immunotherapy. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-04-12.

Precision Measurement of the p(e,e^{'}p)π^{0} Reaction at Threshold

New results are reported from a measurement of π^{0} electroproduction near threshold using the p(e,e^{'}p)π^{0} reaction. The experiment was designed to determine precisely the energy dependence of s- and p-wave electromagnetic multipoles as a stringent test of the predictions of chiral perturbation theory (ChPT). The data were taken with an electron beam energy of 1192 MeV using a two-spectrometer setup in Hall A at Jefferson Lab. For the first time, complete coverage of the ϕ_{π}^{*} and θ_{π}^{*} angles in the pπ^{0} center of mass was obtained for invariant energies above threshold from 0.5 up to 15 MeV. The 4-momentum transfer Q^{2} coverage ranges from 0.05 to 0.155 (GeV/c)^{2} in fine steps. A simple phenomenological analysis of our data shows strong disagreement with p-wave predictions from ChPT for Q^{2}>0.07 (GeV/c)^{2}, while the s-wave predictions are in reasonable agreement.

Comprehensive and quantitative analysis for controlling the physical/chemical states and particle properties of nanodiamonds for biological applications

The physical/chemical states and properties of nanodiamonds subjected to thermal annealing and air oxidation, which are indispensable processes for the preparation of fluorescent nanodiamonds, were investigated.

The effect of Am-80, a synthetic retinoid, on spinal cord injury-induced motor dysfunction in rats

The present study investigated the effect of 4[(5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-5,5,8,8,-tetramethyl-2-naphthalenyl)carbamoyl] benzoic acid (Am-80), a synthetic retinoid, on spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats. Treatment with Am-80 (orally and subcutaneously) significantly promoted recovery from SCI-induced motor dysfunction. On day 28 after injury, the lesion cavity was markedly reduced, while the expression of myelin basic protein (MBP; myelin), betaIIItubulin (neuron), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP; astrocyte) was increased, in comparison with SCI controls. Interestingly, expression of neurotrophin receptor, tyrosine kinase B (TrkB) was over 3-fold higher after Am-80 treatment than in SCI controls. A lot of TrkB-positive cells as well as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)-positive ones were observed around the injured site. Am-80 (10 microM) combined with BDNF (100 ng/ml) promoted extensive neurite outgrowth and TrkB gene expression by cultured SH-SY5Y cells, as did all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). Thymidine incorporation was dramatically suppressed, but there was little effect on cell viability. These findings suggest that Am-80 has the potential to be used for treating neurodegenerative disorders, including SCI. Its efficacy may be partly ascribed to promotion of cell viability and differentiation of neural stem cells through increased TrkB expression.

Mature adipocyte-derived cells, dedifferentiated fat cells (DFAT), promoted functional recovery from spinal cord injury-induced motor dysfunction in rats

Transplantation of mature adipocyte-derived cells (dedifferentiated fat cells) led to marked functional recovery from spinal cord injury (SCI)-induced motor dysfunction in rats. When mature adipocytes were isolated from rat adipose tissue and grown in ceiling culture, transformation into fibroblast-like cells without lipid droplets occurred. These fibroblast-like cells, termed dedifferentiated fat cells (DFAT), could proliferate and could also differentiate back into adipocytes. DFAT expressed neural markers such as nestin, betaIII tubulin, and GFAP. Allografting of DFAT into SCI-induced rats led to significant recovery from hindlimb dysfunction. Grafted cells were detected at the injection site, and some of these cells expressed betaIII tubulin. DFAT expressed neurotrophic factors such as BDNF and GDNF prior to transplantation, and grafted cells were also positive for these factors. Therefore, these neurotrophic factors derived from grafted DFAT might have contributed to the promotion of functional recovery. These findings also suggest that mature adipocytes could become a new source for cell replacement therapy to treat central nervous system disorders.

[Remarkable effect of gemcitabine-oxaliplatin (GEMOX) therapy in a patient with advanced metastatic mucinous cystic neoplasm of the pancreas]

Gemcitabine(GEM)is the standard therapy for advanced pancreatic cancer. GEM-oxaliplatin (GEMOX) combination treatment has been reported to be superior to GEM alone in terms of clinical progression-free survival, but it is not the therapy of choice for pancreatic cancer. We report a case of advanced mucinous cystic neoplasm (MCN) of the pancreas with multiple hepatic metastases in a 39-year-old female. She was treated with 16 courses of GEMOX (GEM 1,500 mg/day at a rate of 10 mg/m2/min on the first day and oxaliplatin 150 mg/day at 100 mg/m2 on the second day, every 3 weeks). The pharmacist helped her to avoid severe side effects. When the hepatic metastases disappeared after 13 courses, the primary MCN was removed surgically after 16 courses of GEMOX treatment. No recurrence has been observed 22 months postoperatively. GEMOX might be effective for the treatment of MCN of the pancreas.

Therapeutic effect of lecithinized superoxide dismutase against colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) involves intestinal mucosal damage induced by reactive oxygen species (ROS), in particular, superoxide anion. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) catalyzes dismutation of superoxide anion to hydrogen peroxide, which is subsequently detoxified by catalase. Lecithinized SOD (PC-SOD) is a new modified form of SOD that has overcome previous clinical limitations of SOD. In this study, we examined the action of PC-SOD using an animal model of UC, dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. DSS-induced colitis was ameliorated by daily intravenous administration of PC-SOD. Unmodified SOD produced a similar effect but only at more than 30 times the concentration of PC-SOD. In vivo electron spin resonance analysis confirmed that the increase in the colonic level of ROS associated with development of colitis was suppressed by PC-SOD administration. The dose-response profile of PC-SOD was bell-shaped, but simultaneous administration of catalase restored the ameliorative effect at high doses of PC-SOD. Accumulation of hydrogen peroxide was observed with the administration of high doses of PC-SOD, an effect that was suppressed by the simultaneous administration of catalase. We also found that either a weekly intravenous administration or daily oral administration of PC-SOD conferred protection. These results suggest that PC-SOD achieves its ameliorative effect against colitis through decreasing the colonic level of ROS and that its ineffectiveness at higher doses is because of the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide. Furthermore, we consider that intermittent or oral administration of PC-SOD can be applied clinically to improve the quality of life of UC patients.

Administration of Optimum Sustained-Insulin Release PLGA Microcapsules to Spontaneous Diabetes-Prone BB/WorTky Rats

To show the possibility of sustained-release insulin formulation composed of PLGA, the optimum one was administered to BioBreeding rat, a model of spontaneous type I diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Every 2 weeks subcutaneous administration made their blood glucose level depend on the insulin release and food intake. However, all of them kept alive with little change or rather a little gain in body weight. Furthermore, some of pregnant rats with intermittent treatment bore fetuses, although additional insulin therapy seemed necessary. Therefore, the formulation could become a new tool as a provider of basal insulin for IDDM patients.

Deeply virtual compton scattering off the neutron

The present experiment exploits the interference between the deeply virtual Compton scattering (DVCS) and the Bethe-Heitler processes to extract the imaginary part of DVCS amplitudes on the neutron and on the deuteron from the helicity-dependent D(e,e'gamma)X cross section measured at Q2=1.9 GeV2 and xB=0.36. We extract a linear combination of generalized parton distributions (GPDs) particularly sensitive to E_{q}, the least constrained GPD. A model dependent constraint on the contribution of the up and down quarks to the nucleon spin is deduced.

Efficient targeting to alveolar macrophages by intratracheal administration of mannosylated liposomes in rats

The success of targeting systems to alveolar macrophages critically depends on internalization into these cells for pharmacological intervention. Direct respiratory delivery via inhalation of mannose modified liposomal carriers to alveolar macrophages is of great interest. To evaluate the targeting efficiency to alveolar macrophages by intratracheal administration of mannosylated liposomes (Man-liposomes), Man-liposomes with various ratio of mannosylated cholesterol derivatives, cholesten-5-yloxy-N-(4-((1-imino-2-D-thiomannosylethyl)amino)alkyl)formamide (Man-C4-Chol) as mannose receptor ligand were investigated with regard to their in vitro uptake in primary cultured alveolar macrophages and in vivo intratracheal administration in rats. The in vitro uptake of Man-liposomes took place in a concentration-dependent manner. The internalization of Man-liposomes with 7.5% (Man-7.5-liposomes) and 5.0% (Man-5.0-liposomes) Man-C4-Chol was considerably higher than that of Man-liposomes with 2.5% of Man-C4-Chol (Man-2.5-liposomes) and Bare-liposomes and significantly inhibited by an excess of mannan, suggesting mannose receptor-mediated endocytosis. After intratracheal administration of Man-7.5 and Man-5.0-liposomes in rats, a significantly high internalization and selective targeting to alveolar macrophages was observed. The enhanced cellular uptake in alveolar macrophages related to the mannose density of Man-liposomes was also confirmed both in vitro and in vivo confocal microscopy studies. These results demonstrate the efficient targeting to alveolar macrophages by the intratracheally administered Man-liposomes via mannose receptor-mediated endocytosis.

Investigation of proton-proton short-range correlations via the 12C(e,e'pp) reaction

We investigated simultaneously the 12C(e,e'p) and 12C(e,e'pp) reactions at Q2=2 (GeV/c)2, xB=1.2, and in an (e, e'p) missing-momentum range from 300 to 600 MeV/c. At these kinematics, with a missing momentum greater than the Fermi momentum of nucleons in a nucleus and far from the delta excitation, short-range nucleon-nucleon correlations are predicted to dominate the reaction. For (9.5+/-2)% of the 12C(e,e'p) events, a recoiling partner proton was observed back-to-back to the 12C(e,e'p) missing-momentum vector, an experimental signature of correlations.

The Comparison Study of Lipo PGE1 Preparations

The comparison study was performed with 3 kinds of Lipo PGE(1) (5 microg/ml) preparations (Formulation A, B, and C), which are now used in clinical. Under alkali condition, Lipo PGE(1) (5 microg/ml) preparations in combination with physiological solution containing calcium ion were susceptible to stop dropping because of the formation of aggregates. There was a difference of feasibility to form aggregates among these preparations. The percentage of PGE(1) in the LM (lipid microspheres) was 68.8% (Formulation A) when determined by filtration with the pore size of 0.1 microm, and the respective value (%) of Formulation B and Formulation C was 43.0% and 13.9%. This indicates that the latter formulations were significantly susceptible to leak from the LM. PGE(1) can induce an extensive irritation. The potency of irritation was the most in Formulation C. This seems similar with the result of LM retention of PGE(1). PGE(1) increased the blood flow. Formulation A reached the peak by 2.27 fold, which was significantly higher than Formulation C and PGE(1) alone (PGE(1)-cyclodextrin, PGE(1)-CD). The peak was also significantly higher in Formulation B than that of PGE(1)-CD. The AUC value of blood flow rate showed a significant increase in Formulation A and Formulation B as compared to that of PGE(1)-CD. Drug retention in the LM can be a determinant factor for drug distribution and pharmacological effect. This study indicates that there can be some differences among Lipo PGE(1) preparations, which have the same drug dose.

Commissioning and performance of the variable line spacing plane grating monochromator beamline at the Canadian Light Source

The variable line spacing plane grating monochromator beamline at the Canadian Light Source (CLS) employs three grazing incidence variable line spacing gratings to cover a photon energy range of 5-250 eV. It uses a 185 mm period length planar permanent magnet insertion device as the photon source, sharing a straight section with another soft x-ray beamline at the CLS. The commissioning and performance of the beamline is reported. The high resolution photoabsorption spectra of Ar and PF(5) gases are reported. A resolving power of over 40,000 for photons in the low energy region and >10,000 for a wider energy range (8-200 eV) can be achieved. A photon flux of up to 2 x 10(12) photons/s per 100 mA with slit settings of 50 microm has been measured.

Scaling tests of the cross section for deeply virtual Compton scattering

We present the first measurements of the e[over -->]p-->epgamma cross section in the deeply virtual Compton scattering (DVCS) regime and the valence quark region. The Q(2) dependence (from 1.5 to 2.3 GeV(2)) of the helicity-dependent cross section indicates the twist-2 dominance of DVCS, proving that generalized parton distributions (GPDs) are accessible to experiment at moderate Q(2). The helicity-independent cross section is also measured at Q(2)=2.3 GeV(2). We present the first model-independent measurement of linear combinations of GPDs and GPD integrals up to the twist-3 approximation.

Transdermal delivery of CaCO3-nanoparticles containing insulin

BACKGROUND

This study evaluates the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic effects of a transdermally delivered insulin using novel CaCO(3)-nanoparticles in normal mice and those with diabetes.

METHODS

CaCO3-nanoparticles encapsulating insulin (nanoinsulin) were transdermally applied to the back skin of normal ddY mice and dB/dB and kkAy mice with diabetes after fasting for 1 h. Serum insulin levels of ddY mice were analyzed by enzyme immunoassay, and blood glucose of normal mice and those with diabetes was monitored.

RESULTS

Maximum serum insulin was 67.1 +/- 25.9 microIU/mL at 4 h with 200 microg of transdermal nanoinsulin in ddY mice, whereas that after subcutaneous injection of 3 microg of monomer insulin was 462 +/- 20.9 microIU/mL at 20 min. Transdermal nanoinsulin decreased glucose levels in a dose-dependent manner. A maximum decrease in blood glucose of 48.3 +/- 3.9% (ddY), 32.5 +/- 9.8% (dB/dB), and 26.2 +/- 7.6% (kkAy) after 6 h was observed with 200 microg of transdermal nanoinsulin, compared with 64.1+/-1.0% (ddY), 57.9 +/-3.4% (dB/dB), and 24.1 +/- 6.7% (kkAy) after 1 h with 3 microg of subcutaneous monomer insulin. Insulin bioavailability until 6 h with transdermal nanoinsulin in ddY mice was 0.9% based on serum insulin level and 2.0% on pharmacodynamic blood glucose-lowering effects.

CONCLUSIONS

This CaCO(3)-nanoparticle system successfully delivered insulin transdermally, as evidenced by a significant sustained decrease in blood glucose in normal mice and those with diabetes. These results support the feasibility of developing transdermal nanoinsulin for human applications.

Effects of inducible nitric oxide synthase inhibitors on asthma depending on administration schedule

The effectiveness of two inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) inhibitors on allergic airway inflammation was investigated under different administration schedules. Rats sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) were exposed to OVA for 3 consecutive days. Both iNOS inhibitors showed markedly different effects between two pretreatment schedules: pretreatment before each of three OVA exposures S1 and before the third exposure alone S2. S1 pretreatment resulted in higher pulmonary resistance than triple OVA alone. This potentiation was associated with increased eosinophil infiltration and malondialdehyde levels in the lungs, which were suppressed by superoxide dismutases (SODs) but not by methylprednisolone. However, the S2 administration of both iNOS inhibitors completely suppressed the airway response. Administration by schedule S1 completely suppressed plasma nitrite and nitrate levels, but that by S2 caused only a slight suppression. The triple OVA exposures resulted in the upregulation of iNOS in alveolar macrophages and arginase activity, Mn- and Cu/Zn-SOD expression, and nitrotyrosine and lipid peroxide deposition in the airway. However, inhibitors administered by schedule S1 suppressed this upregulation, but further potentiated nitrotyrosine, which in turn was inhibited by SOD. Although iNOS inhibitors may be beneficial for asthma, repeated administration may be detrimental because of extensive reduction of NO and downregulation of SOD.

[Nanotechnology for therapy of type 2 diabetes]

All-trans Retinoic Acid (atRA), is known as a member of retinoid, and the atRA nano-particle with coated by CaCO3 (nanoegg -atRA), was recently developed as a new drug delivery system (DDS). This nanoparticles stimulated insulin secretion from islets in a glucose-dependent manner at streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetes. The stains on pancreas of Wistar rat at STZ induced diabetes, which was subcutaneous administered nanoegg -atRA 6 mg/head/week for 141 days, showed not only the expression of PDX-1 but also the presence of beta cell in islet of Langerhans. Furthermore, the increase of insulin concentration in plasma was also observed. Our data indicate that nanoegg -atRA might contribute to the regeneration of beta cells in vivo, and provide useful information for future therapy of diabetes mellitus.

New nanotechnology for the guided tissue regeneration of skin--potential of lyotropic liquid crystals

Tissue in body must quickly recognize injury to response to the rapid pace of epidermal growth. In skin, the epidermal cells must also react to danger signals from the surrounding extracellular lipid of the stratum corneum spaces and immediately participate by initiating the wound repair process. The topical administration of the lyotropic liquid crystal nanocube to stratum corneum rapidly broke down the lipid lamella structure which would be recognized as a wound without organ-change. This can activate a variety of biological processes. This study set out to determine whether the phase transition of the lipid to a neighbouring different physicochemical structure can stimulate keratinocyte cells and what mechanism is responsible for this response. Using small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) analysis, a response to the transient structural change of lipid was detected which might result from the diffusion of oil and/or water from nanocube liquid crystal towards the lipid lamella phase. Simultaneously, a significant increase in growth factors and inflammatory cytokines was detected after administration of nanocube. Not only the excess expression of cytokines but also the extent of TEWL as a barrier marker of skin increased. These observations suggest that a structural change in lipid can stimulate and trigger recognition of a slight injury in the wound defence and a repair response as homeostasis. This method actually succeeded in improving photo-induced hyperpigmentation on a human face.

Enhanced skin regeneration by nanoegg formulation of all-trans retinoic acid

All-trans retinoic acid (atRA) which could smooth wrinkles and produce less pigmented skin after a few months of treatment has been studied in research into topical treatments for a potent inhibitor of new melanin production. However, the clinical responses of commercial atRA cream predominantly comprise severe inflammation. We report a novel nanotechnology "nanoegg" system giving improved effects of atRA self-assembly which were coated by CaCO3. Dorsal areas of hairless mouse and porcine skin were employed for administration of nanoegg ointment and commercial products. The mRNA for heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) from tissues was measured by a real-time PCR method. All tissues were stained for detection of hyaluronate and the thickness of the epidermis. A clinical trial in humans was carried out at St. Marianna University in Japan. As a result, the irritation and inflammation associated with atRA molecules were substantially reduced. The physicochemical instability of atRA was also dramatically improved. Furthermore, nanoegg enhanced marked expression of mRNA for HB-EGF from keratinocytes, which is known as one of the markers of keratinocyte turnover. Also, production of hyaluronate was surprisingly in the intercellular spaces of the basal and spinous cell layers 2 days after treatment. Even at the low concentration of atRA in the nanoegg system, the proliferation and differentiation of keratinocyte was somewhat enhanced. A nanoegg may thus not only prevent adverse effects, but also markedly enhance the main effect.

Genome sequencing and analysis of Aspergillus oryzae

The genome of Aspergillus oryzae, a fungus important for the production of traditional fermented foods and beverages in Japan, has been sequenced. The ability to secrete large amounts of proteins and the development of a transformation system have facilitated the use of A. oryzae in modern biotechnology. Although both A. oryzae and Aspergillus flavus belong to the section Flavi of the subgenus Circumdati of Aspergillus, A. oryzae, unlike A. flavus, does not produce aflatoxin, and its long history of use in the food industry has proved its safety. Here we show that the 37-megabase (Mb) genome of A. oryzae contains 12,074 genes and is expanded by 7-9 Mb in comparison with the genomes of Aspergillus nidulans and Aspergillus fumigatus. Comparison of the three aspergilli species revealed the presence of syntenic blocks and A. oryzae-specific blocks (lacking synteny with A. nidulans and A. fumigatus) in a mosaic manner throughout the genome of A. oryzae. The blocks of A. oryzae-specific sequence are enriched for genes involved in metabolism, particularly those for the synthesis of secondary metabolites. Specific expansion of genes for secretory hydrolytic enzymes, amino acid metabolism and amino acid/sugar uptake transporters supports the idea that A. oryzae is an ideal microorganism for fermentation.

Lecithinized superoxide dismutase (PC-SOD) improved spinal cord injury-induced motor dysfunction through suppression of oxidative stress and enhancement of neurotrophic factor production

PC-SOD (lecithinized superoxide dismutase) is a derivative of human Cu, Zn-SOD conjugated with 4 molecules of lecithin, yet having the enzyme activity of scavenging superoxide anion (O2-). Intravenous administration of PC-SOD promoted the recovery from spinal cord injury (SCI)-induced motor dysfunction in a dose-dependent manner in rat model, when evaluated by BBB (Basso Beattie Bresnahan) score. Even when given at 24 h after SCI, PC-SOD (1 mg/kg) significantly improved motor dysfunction. Distribution study demonstrated that PC-SOD gradually accumulated to the injured site. Enzyme-linked immunoassay revealed that PC-SOD prevented quantitative loss of neurons, astrocytes, and oligodendrocytes. PC-SOD inhibited SCI-induced oxidative stress, such as the decrease of free sulfhydryl residue, acetylcholine esterase activity, and the increase of lipid peroxidation. PC-SOD increased the production of neuroprotective factors. HIF-1alpha gene expression increased following SCI, and PC-SOD further increased it. In conclusion, PC-SOD gradually accumulated and retained at the damaged site to scavenge excessive O2-, and suppressed neuronal death through reducing oxidative stress, increasing neuroprotective factor production and HIF-1alpha gene expression.

Prostaglandin E2 production in ovarian cancer cell lines is regulated by cyclooxygenase-1, not cyclooxygenase-2

The significance of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in ovarian cancer has been discussed. In this study, we found increased expression of COX-1 mRNA and protein in three out of 10 ovarian cancer cell lines. Prostaglandin E 2 (PGE2) production was elevated in these three cell lines, but not in other seven cell lines. COX-2 protein was not detected in any of the cell lines. Cytosolic prostaglandin E synthase (cPGES) mRNA and protein were detected in all 10 cell lines. Membrane-associated PGES-1 (mPGES-1) was detected in some of the ovarian cell lines, but its presence did not correspond with PGE2 production. In contrast, mPGES-2 mRNA and protein were detected in all 10 cell lines. A nonselective COX inhibitor (indometacin) and a selective COX-1 inhibitor (SC-560) strongly inhibited PGE2 production by the three cell lines, while selective COX-2 inhibitors (NS-398 and rofecoxib) did not inhibit PGE2 production. In addition, increased expression of COX-1, not COX-2 protein was observed in the mass of ovarian cancer tissues from 22 patients when compared with that in normal tissue. These findings suggest that COX-1 might be a major enzyme regulating PGE2 production in ovarian cancer cells.

Successful treatment of photo-damaged skin of nano-scale atRA particles using a novel transdermal delivery

We show a novel drug delivery system (DDS) for improved all-trans retinoic acid (atRA) therapy for external treatments of photo-damaged skin. We prepared inorganic-coated atRA nanoparticles, in turn an egg-like structure in nano-scale (Nano-atRA), using boundary-organized reaction droplets. The interfacial properties of organic architectures, in atRA micelles, were used to template the nucleation of inorganic minerals. As a result, irritation and inflammation associated with atRA therapy were substantially reduced due to the complete encapsulation of the carboxylic function. Both irritative symptoms and physicochemical instability of the atRA micelle were improved. Since Nano-atRA which is prepared following to this new DDS system developmentally improved the permeability to the stratum corneum, the remarkable pharmacological effects were resulted in comparison with atRA as such as follows: (1) thicker epidermis than classical atRA treatment and (2) the overexpression of mRNA for heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) as the provocation epidermal hyperplasia. Furthermore, we found a surprising boost in production of hyaluronan (HA) among the intercellular spaces of the basal and spinous cell layers in epidermis. Nano-atRA technology for atRA therapy could not only efficiently regulate keratinocyte cell proliferation and differentiation, but also markedly produce the additional benefit. Severely injured human skin by chronic ultraviolet irradiation will completely repair due to the accelerated turnover of skin tissue, which is induced by Nano-atRA.

Lecithinized brain-derived neurotrophic factor promotes the differentiation of embryonic stem cells in vitro and in vivo

The addition of lecithin molecules to brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been reported to markedly enhance its pharmacological effect in vivo. In the current study, we show that lecithinized BDNF (PC-BDNF) has a higher affinity than BDNF for neural precursor cells. Although BDNF only slightly increased the expression of the genes for Mash-1, p35, 68 kDa neurofilament, and TrkB receptor, PC-BDNF caused a significant increase in their expression. PC-BDNF also increased the level of neurofilament protein and dramatically increased TrkB mRNA gene expression, which was followed by a sustained activation of the p42/p44 extracellular-regulated kinases. Finally, transplantation of PC-BDNF-treated cells was more effective than BDNF-treated cells at improving impaired motor function caused by spinal cord injury. These findings showed that PC-BDNF has a better potential than BDNF for promoting neural differentiation, partly due to a higher cellular affinity. Furthermore, PC-BDNF-treated cells could be useful for transplantation therapy for central nervous system injuries.

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor bound with lecithin derivative showed a markedly enhanced pharmacological potency due to its potent cell membrane affinity followed by prolonged MAPK activation

We synthesized lecithinized brain-derived neurotrophic factor (lecithinized-BDNF), in which an average of three molecules of a lecithin derivative were bound to recombinant human BDNF. We evaluated its pharmacological activity in C57BL/KsJ-db/db mice, and assessed its targetability and affinity for the nervous system. Subcutaneously administered lecithinized-BDNF markedly reduced the plasma glucose level, food intake, and body weight in C57BL/KsJ-db/db diabetic mice. Its potency was more than 20 times greater than that of unmodified BDNF. We then studied the mechanism for the markedly enhanced pharmacological activity. In vitro cell growth activity of lecithinized-BDNF using the MTT assay was lower than unmodified BDNF, probably due to steric hindrance of the lecithin moieties. While the plasma BDNF level after subcutaneous administration of lecithinized-BDNF was not higher compared with unmodified BDNF. However, higher amount of lecithinized-BDNF accumulated in the spinal cord was observed. Lastly, we found that in vitro binding capacity of lecithinized-BDNF for PC-pAB1 neural cells was much higher than unmodified BDNF. Moreover, lecithinized-BDNF bound to PC-pAB1 cells did not exchange with an excessive amount of unmodified BDNF or an excess of lecithinized-BDNF. PC-pAB1 cells treated with lecithinized-BDNF showed sustained mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK, ERK1/2) activation. These data would indicate that the high affinity of lecithinized-BDNF for the target cells, followed by prolonged MAPK activation, would play an important role in its potent pharmacological activity.

A single treatment with microcapsules containing a CXCR4 antagonist suppresses pulmonary metastasis of murine melanoma

Biodegradable poly D,L-lactic acid (PLA, molecular weight: ca. 5000) microcapsules containing a CXCR4 antagonist (4F-benzoyl-TE14011) were prepared (4F-benzoyl-TE14011-PLA), and their anti-metastatic activity was evaluated in mice. A single subcutaneous administration of 4F-benzoyl-TE14011-PLA significantly reduced the number of colonies formed by pulmonary metastasis of B16-BL6 melanoma cells expressing CXCR4. The same dose of 4F-benzoyl-TE14011 in a single or a series of treatments affected little. The substance 4F-benzoyl-TE14011 dose-dependently suppressed B16-BL6 cell growth. In the cells cultured with SDF-1, a more potent suppression was observed. 4F-Benzoyl-TE14011 was rapidly released from 4F-benzoyl-TE14011-PLA for an initial period, both in vitro and in vivo. A steady release was thereafter observed. Therefore, this drug release profile might contribute to prevention of melanoma metastasis at the steps involving the migration and cell growth. These results also show that a sustained drug release formulation could be a useful drug delivery system for CXCR4 antagonists.

Optimum formulation for sustained-release insulin

Our aim was to prepare an optimum formulation for a sustained-release preparation of insulin using biodegradable polymer composed of co-poly(D,L-lactic/glycolic) acids (PLGA)(L/G ratio: 50/50). Various kinds of PLGA microcapsules containing 3% insulin were administered subcutaneously (250 U/kg) as a single dose to rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes, and plasma insulin levels were monitored. The following results were obtained. (1) Glycerin and water were suitable additives to prepare a reproducible injectable formulation. (2) Addition of zinc compounds was essential to diminish rapid insulin release and six-fold molar excess of ZnO to insulin was desirable. (3) The size of insulin particles showed the following order: human insulin > lyophilized human insulin > Zn-free human insulin. Zn-free insulin was similar to lyophilized insulin with respect to control of rapid release, so a smaller particle size was essential. (4) The size of the microcapsules also affected the release of insulin. With larger microcapsules (approximately 30 microm), there was gradual release and a significant second phase of insulin release, while smaller microcapsules did not allow sustained release. Some variation in microcapsule size contributed to more constant and sustained release. (5) Based on the insulin release profile in vivo, a suitable molecular weight for PLGA was around 6000. The biological activity of insulin extracted from the formulation was similar to that of normal insulin. These experiments allowed us to prepare a desirable sustained-release insulin formulation.

Effects of prolonged delivery of brain-derived neurotrophic factor on the fate of neural stem cells transplanted into the developing rat retina

One of the major roles of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is to promote the differentiation and support the survival of neurons in the central nervous system. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of BDNF on the fate of adult rat hippocampus-derived neural stem cells (AHPCs) transplanted into the developing rat retina. Immunohistochemical analysis showed a significant increase in the ratio of grafted AHPCs stained for MAP2ab (P<0.05) and a marked decrease in the ratio of nestin-positive grafted cells in the slow-releasing BDNF group compared with the control group. The respective changes in the ratios of MAP5 and GFAP-positive grafted cells were comparable for the two groups. The results reported here suggest a potentially beneficial role for extended delivery of BDNF in the differentiation of grafted neural stem cells, which may lead to a novel modification of stem cell transplantation.

Lecithin-bound superoxide dismutase in the treatment of noninfectious corneal ulcers

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effects of a lipophilic analog of superoxide dismutase in the treatment of persistent epithelial defects of the cornea.

DESIGN

Interventional case series.

METHODS

Nineteen eyes of 19 patients with noninfectious corneal ulcers were enrolled. Patient profiles consisted of seven cases with Mooren-type peripheral ulcers, three cases with chemical or thermal burns, two cases with vernal keratoconjunctivitis, four cases with cicatricial keratoconjunctivitis, and three cases with sterile ulcers after corneal surgery. Patients consisted of 11 men and 8 women, with a mean age of 51.5 +/- 17.9 years (range, 14-77). Only patients who did not respond to conventional therapy were recruited for the study. Lecithinated superoxide dismutase was applied for 2 weeks, and sketches and/or fluorescein slit micrographs were recorded before and at the end of the study. The main outcome measure was decrease in ulcer size.

RESULTS

As a group, the average ulcer size relative to the entire cornea decreased from 18.2 +/- 15.1% to 10.0 +/- 15.0% after 2 weeks (P <.05). A dramatic effect (>90% decrease in ulcer size) was observed in eight cases (100% in six cases), whereas no apparent change was found (<30% decrease in ulcer size) in five cases. The presence of polymorphonucleocytes within the ulcerated tissue was confirmed by brush cytology.

CONCLUSION

Lecinthinated superoxide dismutase was effective in decreasing persistent epithelial defect size in a subset of patients with sterile corneal ulcers refractive to conventional therapy. A large-scale clinical investigation is merited.

Porcine enamel matrix derivative enhances the formation of reparative dentine and dentine bridges during wound healing of amputated rat molars

We examined the biological effects of porcine enamel matrix derivative (EMD; Emdogain) on the formation of reparative dentine and dentine bridges in rat molars after pulp amputation. The pulp chambers of upper molars of Wistar rats were perforated and the amputated pulp surfaces were directly capped with either EMD or its carrier propylene glycol alginate (PGA) as control. The cavities were then restored with glass-ionomer cement. On post-amputation days 4-30, the dissected maxillae were examined by light and electron microscopy. In PGA-capped pulp, reparative dentine had been formed over the dentine walls under the prepared cavity on day 7 post-amputation and its thickness extended until day 30. On day 30, as well as reparative dentine formation, diffuse calcification had occurred beneath the amputated wound surfaces. Dentine bridge formation under the amputated coronal pulp surface was observed in 18.2% of amputated pulp on day 30. In EMD-capped pulp, reparative dentine had already been formed by odontoblast-like cells over the dentine walls, already on day 4 post-amputation, and its thickness extended until day 30. The Ca and P weight % and Ca/P ratio of reparative dentine matrix were similar to those of pre-existing dentine matrix, and these values were not different between PGA and EMD-capped pulp. Dentine bridge formation was observed in 27.3% of EMD-capped pulp on day 30. Our results suggest that EMD enhances the formation of both reparative dentine and dentine bridges during wound healing of amputated rat molar pulp.

A novel insulin formulation can keep providing steady levels of insulin for much longer periods in-vivo

We have recently succeeded in preparing insulin-loaded microcapsules that release the insulin in a strictly controlled manner with little initial rapid release in-vitro or in-vivo. We show here the superiority of the best formulation prepared with co-poly(D,L-lactic/glycolic) acids (PLGA) (mean MW 5800, L/G ratio 50:50) with a main diameter of 15 approximately 30 microm in-vivo. When 3.2 % insulin-loaded PLGA microcapsules were subcutaneously given as a single dose to streptozotocin-induced hyperglycaemic rats (250 U kg(-1)), plasma insulin levels gradually increased and constant levels (30.3-94.1 microU mL(-1)) were sustained. Rats receiving the formulation once a week showed not only steady plasma insulin levels, but also gained weight at a similar speed to normal rats. Meanwhile, daily treatment with Humulin U (25 U kg(-1)) caused a transient high insulin level (2723.9 microU mL(-1) at 1 h) in plasma, but the body weight of the rats was little changed. A pharmacological study in female Cynomolgus monkeys also revealed that the microcapsular formulation provided a flat release of insulin for longer periods and showed no immunogenic activity. In the near future, therefore, this insulin formulation could become very beneficial as a provider of basal insulin levels for insulin-dependent diabetic patients.