Synonymous mutations in TLR2 and TLR9 genes decrease COPD susceptibility in the Chinese Han population

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies have found associations between polymorphisms in some candidate genes and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) risk. However, the association between TLR2 and TLR9 polymorphisms and COPD risk remains uncertain.

METHODS

Four variants (rs352140, rs3804099, rs3804100, and rs5743705) of the TLR2 and TLR9 genes in 540 COPD patients and 507 healthy controls were genotyped using the Agena MassARRAY system. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to assess the association of TLR2 and TLR9 polymorphisms with COPD risk by logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

TLR9-rs352140, TLR2-rs3804100, and TLR2-rs5743705 were related to a lower risk of COPD among Chinese people and the significance still existed after Bonferroni correction. Additionally, rs3804099, rs3804100, and rs352140 were found to be associated with COPD development in different subgroups (males, age ≤ 68 years, smokers, BMI < 24 kg/m2, and acute exacerbation).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicated that TLR9 and TLR2 polymorphisms had protective effects on the development of COPD among Chinese people.

miR‑186‑5p regulates the inflammatory response of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder by targeting HIF‑1α

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) is a chronic respiratory disease that is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Previous studies have shown that miR‑186‑5p expression is significantly increased in COPD and is involved in multiple physiological and pathological processes. However, the role of miRNA‑186‑5p in the inflammatory response of COPD remains unclear. In this study, an in vitro model of COPD was established using lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‑induced human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS‑2B). CCK‑8 assays, flow cytometry, and a Muse cell analyzer were used to determine cell viability, cell cycle distribution, and apoptosis, respectively. The production of TNF‑α and IL‑6 were measured by ELISA. Reverse‑transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting were used to analyze mRNA and protein expression levels. The targeting relation between miR‑186‑5p and HIF‑1α was discovered using dual‑luciferase reporter assays. The results showed that transfection of miR‑186‑5p inhibitor inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis in the LPS‑induced BEAS‑2B cells. Inhibition of miR‑186‑5p markedly increased the levels of TNF‑α and IL‑6. miR‑186‑5p directly targeted and negatively regulated HIF‑1α expression. In addition, inhibition of miR‑186‑5p increased the expression of the NF‑κB pathway protein p‑p65. In conclusion, it was found that inhibiting miR‑186‑5p may improve inflammation of COPD through HIF‑1α in LPS‑induced BEAS‑2B cells, possibly by regulating NF‑κB signaling. These findings provide a novel potential avenue for the clinical management of COPD. Future research is required to determine the mechanism of the interaction between miR‑186‑5p and HIF‑1α in COPD.

Suggestive evidence of genetic association of IL23R polymorphisms with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease risk in the Chinese population

BACKGROUND

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a worldwide public health problem. Previous genetic association studies have identified several susceptibility loci in the interleukin genes that may participate in the nosogenesis of COPD. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between IL23R loci and COPD susceptibility in the Chinese population.

METHODS

Agena MassARRAY technology was applied to genotype five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IL23R gene in 498 COPD patients and 498 healthy people. The association between IL23R SNPs and COPD risk was calculated by logistic regression analysis, with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. The false-positive report probability analysis was noteworthy for evaluating the significant results. Also, haplotype analysis was performed among IL23R variants, and multifactor dimensionality reduction analysis was performed to assess the SNP-SNP interactions to predict the risk of COPD.

RESULTS

Overall analysis showed that rs7517847 had a significant association with an increased risk of COPD. Age-stratified analysis revealed that rs7517847 was significantly related to an increased risk of COPD in people aged over 68 years old. Sex-stratified analysis illustrated a significant association between rs2295359 and rs7517847 and COPD risk in the female population. The significant association of COPD risk with IL23R SNPs was assessed by false-positive report probability values. Additionally, we observed that the haplotypes AAC and GGA formed by rs2201841, rs12743974 and rs10889677 were associated with a reduced risk of COPD (p = 0.009, p = 0.026). Also, the five-loci interaction model formed by rs2295359, rs7517847, rs2201841, rs12743974 and rs10889677 became the best predictor of COPD, with 10/10 cross-validation consistency and 52.4% testing balance accuracy.

CONCLUSION

The research indicated a remarkable association between IL23R variants and COPD susceptibility in the Chinese population. Larger samples and functional research are required to ascertain the relationship between IL23R variants and COPD susceptibility.

IL6R gene polymorphisms and their relation to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease susceptibility in the Chinese population

Background: This work was designed to explore the correlation between IL6R polymorphisms and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) susceptibility. Methods: Agena MassARRAY was used to genotype five SNPs of IL6R in 498 patients with COPD and 498 controls. Genetic models and haplotype analysis were used to assess the associations between SNPs and COPD risk. Results: Rs6689306 and rs4845625 increase the risk of COPD. Rs4537545, rs4129267 and rs2228145 were related to a decreased risk of COPD in different subgroups. Haplotype analysis revealed that GTCTC, GCCCA and GCTCA contributed to a reduced risk of COPD after adjustment. Conclusion: IL6R polymorphisms are significantly associated with COPD susceptibility.

lncRNA GAS5 promotes pyroptosis in COPD by functioning as a ceRNA to regulate the miR‑223‑3p/NLRP3 axis

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by irreversible and progressive airflow limitation and encompasses a spectrum of diseases, including chronic obstructive bronchitis and emphysema. Pyroptosis is a unique form of inflammatory cell death mediated by the activation of caspase-1 and inflammasomes. The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5) is a well-documented tumor suppressor, which is associated with cell proliferation and death in various diseases. The aim of the present study was to evaluate whether lncRNA GAS5 is associated with the pyroptosis in COPD. To create a COPD cell model, MRC-5 cells were treated with 10 µg/ml lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 48 h. Then the level of pro-caspase 1, caspase 1, IL-1β, IL-18, NLRP3 and cleaved gasdermin D (GSDMD) was examined by western blotting. GAS5 mRNA level was detected by qualitative PCR following LPS treatment in MRC-5 cells. Subsequently, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α in MRC-5 cells was measured by ELISA. Then the proliferation ability of MRC-5 cells was detected by CCK-8. Cell death was detected by TUNEL assay. LDH release was measured using an LDH Cytotoxicity Assay kit. The Magna RIP kit was used to validate the interaction between GAS5 and miR-223-3p. The present study revealed that increased expression levels of caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18 and cleaved GSDMD were observed in LPS-treated MRC-5 cells, indicating that pyroptosis is involved in COPD progression. Additionally, LPS induced the increase in GAS5 mRNA expression levels and the release of inflammatory factors (IL-2, IL-6, IL-10 and TNF-α), suggesting that GAS5 is implicated in pyroptosis in COPD. Furthermore, upregulation of GAS5 promoted cell death and inhibited proliferation in the MRC-5 cell line. Additionally, increased GAS5 expression significantly promoted the production of caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18, cleaved GSDMD and NLR pyrin domain containing protein 3 (NLRP3). A dual-luciferase assay demonstrated that GAS5 could directly bind to microRNA-223-3p (miR-223-3p), and NLRP3 is a direct target of miR-223-3p. Furthermore, GAS5 reduced the expression levels of miR-223-3p, while it increased the expression levels of NLRP3. The present study concluded that lncRNA GAS5 promoted pyroptosis in COPD by targeting the miR-223-3p/NLRP3 axis, implying that GAS5 could be a potential target for COPD.

Nicotine promotes chronic obstructive pulmonary disease via inducing pyroptosis activation in bronchial epithelial cells

Nicotine is one of the primary components in cigarettes, which is responsible for addiction. Numerous studies have investigated the effects of nicotine on pulmonary disease. The health of epithelial cells is important in the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Accumulating evidence has suggested that epithelial cell death may initiate or contribute to the progression of a number of lung diseases via airway remodeling. Pyroptosis is a unique form of inflammatory cell death mediated by the activation of caspase‑1 and the NOD‑like receptor protein‑3 (NLRP3) inflammasome. The present study aimed to evaluate whether pyroptosis of epithelial cells was involved in the progression of COPD. The normal human bronchial epithelial cell line 16HBE was treated with 0.1 or 1 µM nicotine. Then the proliferation ability of 16HBE cells was detected by CCK‑8. Cell death was detected by flow cytometry analysis and TUNEL assay. Subsequently, the levels of pro‑caspase 1, caspase 1, IL‑1β, IL‑18, NLRP3, ASC and cleaved GSDMD were examined by western blotting. It was revealed that nicotine treatment significantly induced cell death and suppressed proliferation of 16HBE cells. Furthermore, nicotine exposure increased the expression levels of caspase‑1, IL‑1β, IL‑18, NLRP3, apoptosis‑associated speck‑like protein and gasdermin D in 16HBE cells. Therefore, the present study concluded that nicotine treatment induced pyroptosis in 16HBE cells, which may be associated with the progression of COPD.

Impact of rate control medications on one-year outcomes with atrial fibrillation and heart failure

Purpose

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) often coexist. The impact of rate-control regimens in AF and HF patients has not been well understood.

Methods

In this multicenter, prospective registry with one-year follow-up, 1359 persistent or permanent AF patients got enrolled. A 1:1 HF to non-HF propensity score matching was applied to adjust for confounding variables. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality while the secondary endpoint was defined as cardiovascular death and stroke. Multivariate Cox analysis was performed to evaluate the association between different rate-control treatment and incidence of adverse events.

Results

Before matching, HF patients were much younger and more likely to be female. They had a much higher prevalence of previous myocardial infarction, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and valvular heart disease. Among 1359 participants, we identified 1016 matched patients. The number of drugs did not affect the risk of all-cause mortality in both cohorts. For non-HF patients, using calcium channel blockers (CCBs) plus digoxin had a significant higher risk of all-cause death (HR=5.703, 95% CI 1.334–24.604, p=0.019) and cardiovascular death (HR=9.558, 95% CI 2.127–42.935, p=0.003) compared with patients not receiving rate-control treatment. The use of beta-blockers, CCBs, digoxin alone, other dual or triple combinations was not related to risk of adverse events in both groups.

Conclusions

The combined use of CCBs and digoxin was related to increase all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in AF patients without HF but not for those with HF. However, the ideal rate-control regimen for AF and HF patients has not been established and well-designed clinical trials are needed.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None. Results of multivariate Cox analysisKaplan-Meier curves by drug numbers

Inhibition of the cell migration, invasion and chemoresistance of colorectal cancer cells through targeting KLF3 by miR-365a-3p

Background: Metastasis and chemoresistance limit treatment efficacy of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been believed to be candidate biomarkers for tumor cell proliferation, metastasis and chemoresistance, but the related molecular mechanisms are not clear for prognosis prediction.

Aims: We aimed to investigate the role of miR-365a-3p in metastasis and chemoresistance of CRC.

Methods: The expression levels of miR-365a-3p in clinical CRC tissues were analyzed. The effects of miR-365a-3p expression levels on tumor chemoresistance, invasion and migration were also determined. A dual luciferase reporter gene assay was used to determine the effect of miR-365a-3p on its target gene, Kruppel-like factor 3 (KLF3), and the effect of the miR-365a-3p/KLF3 axis on CRC cell chemoresistance, migration and invasion was further investigated.

Results: In patients with CRC with lymph node or distant organ metastasis or in CRC cell lines, the expression levels of miR-365a-3p were significantly downregulated. In addition, the findings of Transwell assays demonstrated that miR-365a-3p significantly suppressed CRC cell migration and invasion. The dual luciferase reporter gene assay results suggested that miR-365a-3p may play an important role in the regulation of migration, invasion and chemoresistance in CRC cells.

Conclusions: The findings of present study provided evidence to suggest that miR-365a-3p may be a potential tumor suppressor gene in CRC and may inhibit the migration, invasion and chemoresistance of CRC cells. These results suggested that targeting miR-365a-3p/KLF3 axis may represent a potential therapeutic intervention for metastatic disease in patients with CRC.

[Clinical and genetic studies on 76 patients with hydrocephalus caused by methylmalonic acidemia combined with homocysteinuria]

Objective: To analyze the clinical features, genetic characteristics, treatment and follow-up results of patients with hydrocephalus caused by methylmalonic acidemia combined with homocysteinuria, and to discuss the optimal strategies for assessing and treating such patients. Methods: From January 1998 to December 2020, 76 patients with hydrocephalus due to methylmalonic acidemia combined with homocysteinuria in the Department of Pediatrics in 11 hospitals including Peking University First Hospital were diagnosed by biochemical, genetic analysis and brain imaging examination. The patients were divided into operation-group and non-operation-group according to whether they underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt. The clinical features, laboratory examinations, genotype, and follow-up data were retrospectively analyzed. Data were compared between the two groups using rank sum test, and categorical data were compared using χ² test. Results: Among the 76 patients (51 male, 25 female), 5 were detected by newborn screening, while 71 were diagnosed after clinical onset, 68 cases (96%) had early-onset, 3 cases (4%) had late-onset. The most common clinical manifestations of 74 cases with complete data were psychomotor retardation in 74 cases (100%), visual impairment in 74 cases (100%), epilepsy in 44 cases (59%), anemia in 31 cases (42%), hypotonia or hypertonia in 21 cases (28%), feeding difficulties in 19 cases (26%) and disturbance of consciousness in 17 cases (23%). Genetic analysis was performed in 76 cases, all of whom had MMACHC gene variations, including 30 homozygous variations of MMACHC c.609G>A. The most common variations were c.609G>A (94, 62.7%), followed by c.658_660del (18, 12.0%), c.567dupT (9, 6.0%) and c.217C>T (8, 5.3%). Therapy including cobalamin intramuscular injection, L-carnitine and betaine were initiated immediately after diagnosis. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt operation was performed in 41 cases (operation group), and 31 patients improved after metabolic intervention (non-operation group). There was no significant difference in the age of onset, the age of diagnosis, the blood total homocysteine, methionine, and urinary methylmalonic acid concentration between the two groups (all P>0.05). The symptoms of psychomotor development, epilepsy, and visual impairments improved gradually after a long-term follow-up in the operation group. Conclusions: Hydrocephalus is a severe complication of methylmalonic acidemia combined with homocysteinuria. The most common clinical manifestations are psychomotor retardation, visual impairment, and epilepsy. It usually occurs in early-onset patients. Early diagnosis and etiological treatment are very important. Hydrocephalus may improve after metabolic intervention in some patients. For patients with severe ventricular dilatation, prompt surgical intervention can improve the prognosis.

MicroRNA-490-3p inhibits migration and chemoresistance of colorectal cancer cells via targeting TNKS2

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancy in the world. The oncogenesis of colorectal cancer is still not fully elucidated. It was reported that microRNA-490-3p (miR-490-3p) was closely related to the regulation of cancers. However, if miR-490-3p could also affect colorectal cancer and the specific mechanism remains unclear.

METHODS

qRT-PCR was conducted to examine the expression of miR-490-3p. DIANA, miRDB, and TargetScan databases were used to identify target genes. LOVO and SW480 cells were transfected by miR-490-3p mimics and inhibitors. Transwell assay was used to measure cell invasion and migration. Cisplatin and fluorouracil were administered to investigate chemotherapy resistance. Western blot was used to measure TNKS2 protein expression. Binding sites were verified using the double luciferase assay.

RESULTS

miR-490-3p expression was low in the colorectal cancer cells. The level of miR-490-3p was negatively correlated with cell migration and invasion of cancer cells. miR-490-3p could bind to TNKS2 mRNA 3'UTR directly. miR-490-3p can suppress cell viability and resistance to chemotherapy in colorectal cancer cells through targeting TNKS2.

CONCLUSIONS

miR-490-3p could affect colorectal cancer by targeting TNKS2. This study may provide a potential therapeutic target for colorectal cancer.

Feasibility of a home-based telerehabilitation exercise program for heart failure patients – a prospective randomized controlled trial

Background

Chronic heart failure (CHF) is a prevalent disease, and CHF patients are recommended to participate in cardiac rehabilitation programs. Due to frailty and rural living, many CHF patients refuse to do so. To meet these challenges, there is need of a more convenient and efficient rehabilitation system. A home-based telerehabilitation program was designed to enable CHF patients to exercise via video-conferencing in their homes, allowing two-way communication with their therapist, and for patients to exercise together.

Purpose

We aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a home-based telerehabilitation exercise program designed for CHF patients.

Methods

67 subjects were included in a two-arm prospective randomized controlled trial if they had stable CHF, were on optimal medical therapy, and refused to participate in standard outpatient rehabilitation. All subjects participated in a 2-day “Living with heart failure” course. The intervention group (n=30) was educated in the use of a tablet computer, a video-conferencing app, and an app with exercise videos, before they received home-based telerehabilitation exercise twice a week for 3 months. Each exercise session consisted of 20 min warm-up, followed by 4x4 min high intensity intervals with 3 min active breaks, and 15 min calm down. Outcomes, measured at baseline and 3 months, included the 6-minute walk test, the Minnesota living with heart failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ), adherence, adverse events, satisfaction, and patient reported measures of safety, technical aspects, and motivational factors.

Results

Mean age was 68 (65.6–71.1) years (82% male). By the 6-minute walk test, the exercise group increased their walking distance with 18 m from baseline 451 m, p=0.07. No change (+0.8 m) was seen in the control group from baseline (478 m) to 3 months, but no significant difference between groups (p=0.20). We found a significant decrease in MLHFQ score for the exercise group (baseline 42.6, change −13.8, p=0.003), and for the control group (baseline 41.2, change −12.6, p=0.002), with no difference between groups (p=0.83). ≥80% fulfilled 80% of 24 exercises. One drop-out was registered, and no adverse events were reported during exercise. In total 96% (26/27) reported that they felt safe during home-based exercise via videoconferencing and 96% (24/25) reported that the intervention gave motivation to continue exercising on their own. Some minor technical issues with the videoconference software was present in 58% (15/26).

Conclusion

Home-based exercise training supported by real-time supervision by telemedicine was feasible, with high adherence and high level of patients' satisfaction. Telerehabilitation increased 6-minute walking distance and quality of life in CHF patients, but the changes were not statistically significant compared to controls. Despite some technical issues with the software and equipment used, the participants reported high motivation to further exercise.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public Institution(s). Main funding source(s): Central Norway Regional Health Authority

Combination therapy of first and third generation EGFR-TKIs for an advanced lung adenocarcinoma patient harboring EGFR mutations and amplification: a case report

The paradigm for the pharmacological management of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has been revolutionized by the development of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Developing resistance to target therapy is unavoidable. Mostly, treatments for single molecular alteration after acquiring EGFR-TKI treatment resistance are well studied. However, there is limited evidence of treatment strategies for complex resistance mechanisms. Presented here is a case of an EGFR-mutated NSCLC patient who developed a complex resistance profile: T790M point mutation and EGFR amplification after first-line EGFR-TKI. This patient was safely treated with a combination of osimertinib and icotinib and achieved a significant clinical response and clear molecular response. Here we present the clinical evidence of the efficacy of osimertinib combined with icotinib in the treatment of EGFR classical mutation along with resistant mutation of T790M point mutation and EGFR amplification.

[Prognostic value of Montreal Cognitive Assessment in heart failure patients]

Objective: To explore the occurrence of cognitive impairment in Chinese heart failure (HF) patients and it's impact on prognosis. Methods: In this prospective observational study, a total of 990 HF patients were enrolled from 24 hospitals in China during December 2012 to November 2014. All patients were administrated with the interview-format Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), according to which they were divided into MoCA<26 (with cognitive impairment) group and MoCA≥26 (without cognitive impairment) group. Baseline data were collected and a 1-year follow up was carried out. Univariate and multivariate logistic or Cox regression were performed for 1-year outcomes. Results: Cognitive impairment was evidenced in 628 patients (63.4%) and they were more likely to be older, female, and with higher proportion of New York Heart Association(NYHA) class Ⅲ-Ⅳ, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), ischemic heart disease, while body mass index (BMI), education level, and medical insurance rate were lower (all P<0.05) as compared to patients in MoCA≥26 group. The rate of percutaneous intervention, device implantation, cardiac surgery and evidence-based medications were significantly lower in MoCA<26 group than in MoCA≥26 group (all P<0.05). During the 1-year follow up, patients in the MoCA<26 group had higher all-cause mortality (10.2%(64/628) vs. 2.2%(8/362), P<0.01), cardiovascular mortality (5.9%(37/628) vs. 0.8%(3/362), P<0.01) and major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) (9.6%(60/628) vs. 2.5%(8/362), P<0.01) than patients in the MoCA≥26 group. In univariate regression, MoCA<26 was associated with increased all-cause mortality (HR(95%CI):4.739(2.272-9.885), P<0.01), cardiovascular mortality (HR(95%CI):7.258(2.237-23.548), P=0.001) and MACCE (OR(95%CI):4.143(2.031-8.453), P<0.01). After adjustment by multivariate regression, MoCA<26 was indicated as an independent risk factor for all-cause mortality (HR(95%CI): 6.387(2.533-16.104), P<0.01), cardiovascular mortality (HR(95%CI): 10.848(2.586-45.506), P=0.001) and MACCE (OR(95%CI): 4.081(1.299-12.816), P=0.016), while not for re-hospitalization for HF (OR(95%CI):1.010(0.700-1.457), P=0.957). Conclusions: Cognitive impairment is common in HF patients,and it is an independent prognostic factor for 1-year outcomes. Routine cognitive function assessment and active intervention are thus recommended for HF patients.

Assessment of serum Golgi protein 73 as a biomarker for the diagnosis of significant fibrosis in patients with chronic HBV infection

Transient elastography (TE) is accurate in staging fibrosis noninvasively. However, a reliable serum biomarker with comparable accuracy is also important, especially when TE is unreliable/unavailable. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance of serum Golgi protein 73 (GP73) for significant fibrosis in patients with chronic HBV infection. A total of 801 patients with chronic liver disease (CLD; 492 chronic HBV infection and 309 non-HBV liver disease) with liver biopsy performance were enrolled. Healthy controls (n = 180) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients (n = 85) were included for comparisons. Liver biopsy was used as the reference method for fibrosis staging. Serum GP73 level was measured in duplicate in double-blind fashion. Serum GP73 was highest in HCC but also significantly higher in chronic hepatitis B than in healthy controls. The elevation of serum GP73 in non-HCC patients was significantly associated with the presence of significant fibrosis independently of ALT level, liver stiffness (LS) value, inflammation grade and other confounding factors. The diagnostic performance of serum GP73 was accurate in antiviral-naïve HBV patients (area under the receiver operating curve [AUROC], 0.76 95% CI: 0.72-0.81) but not in patients with ongoing antiviral treatment (AUROC, 0.60). The utility of serum GP73 was also confirmed in non-HBV CLD (AUROC, 0.80 95% CI: 0.75-0.85). Serum GP73 was comparable to LS (AUROC, 0.78 95% CI: 0.73-0.82) and significantly better than AST to platelet ratio index (APRI) (AUROC, 0.67 95% CI: 0.62-0.72) and FIB-4 (AUROC, 0.68 95% CI: 0.63-0.73). In conclusion, serum GP73 is an accurate serum marker for significant fibrosis in chronic HBV infection, with higher accuracy than APRI and FIB-4. Serum GP73 is potentially a complementary tool for TE when evaluating the necessity of antiviral treatment, particularly in patients without definite antiviral indication.

The Bergen Blood Pressure Study: Definition of Hypertensive and Normotensive Families Based on 27 Years' Follow-up

The familial aggregation of hypertension is well documented. However, many studies on the familial predisposition have suffered from insufficient knowledge of parental blood pressure (BP). In the present study, the family history is defined according to parental data from two BP surveys conducted almost 30 years apart. Data from a population screening in Bergen in 1963-64 were linked with information on marital status to define couples with or without a history of hypertension. Within the screened population a total of 344 married couples, 688 individuals, matched defined age and BP criteria. Four hundred and thirty individuals, representing 270 of the 344 families initial included (79%), attended a follow-up examination in 1990. Six hundred and ninety-one offspring were registered. In all families represented at follow-up, parental BP data from the 1963-64 screening were available. In 160 families (noffspring = 393), both parents also attended the follow-up examination in 1990. In 23 families (noffspring = 54) both parents were hypertensive in 1963-64 as well as in 1990. In 22 families (noffspring = 55) both parents were normotensive at both examinations. Thus, a family data base which is assumed to be useful for studies on offspring with or without a family history of hypertension, has been established. The offspring studies include BP, 24-h ambulatory BP, electrocardiography, echocardiography, endocrine parameters, electrolytes and anthropometric variables.

A new structural motif for rigid C2-symmetrical propeller-shaped 1,2-diamines employing double aromatic pi-stacking

Utilization of double aromatic pi-stacking interactions on a 2,3-diaminobutane framework provides a new motif for structurally rigid C2-symmetrical propeller-shaped chiral 1,2-diamines.

Unique functions of Sonic hedgehog signaling during external genitalia development

Coordinated growth and differentiation of external genitalia generates a proximodistally elongated structure suitable for copulation and efficient fertilization. The differentiation of external genitalia incorporates a unique process, i.e. the formation of the urethral plate and the urethral tube. Despite significant progress in molecular embryology, few attempts have been made to elucidate the molecular developmental processes for external genitalia. The sonic hedgehog (Shh) gene and its signaling genes have been found to be dynamically expressed during murine external genitalia development. Functional analysis by organ culture revealed that Shh could regulate mesenchymally expressed genes, patched 1 (Ptch1), bone morphogenetic protein 4 (Bmp4), Hoxd13 and fibroblast growth factor 10 (Fgf10), in the anlage: the genital tubercle (GT). Activities of Shh for both GT outgrowth and differentiation were also demonstrated. Shh–/– mice displayed complete GT agenesis, which is compatible with such observations. Furthermore, the regulation of apoptosis during GT formation was revealed for the first time. Increased cell death and reduced cell proliferation of the Shh–/– mice GT were shown. A search for alterations of Shh downstream gene expression identified a dramatic shift of Bmp4 gene expression from the mesenchyme to the epithelium of the Shh mutant before GT outgrowth. Regulation of mesenchymal Fgf10 gene expression by the epithelial Shh was indicated during late GT development. These results suggest a dual mode of Shh function, first by the regulation of initiating GT outgrowth, and second, by subsequent GT differentiation.

Anorectal malformations caused by defects in sonic hedgehog signaling

Anorectal malformations are a common clinical problem affecting the development of the distal hindgut in infants. The spectrum of anorectal malformations ranges from the mildly stenotic anus to imperforate anus with a fistula between the urinary and intestinal tracts to the most severe form, persistent cloaca. The etiology, embryology, and pathogenesis of anorectal malformations are poorly understood and controversial. Sonic hedgehog (Shh) is an endoderm-derived signaling molecule that induces mesodermal gene expression in the chick hindgut. However, the role of Shh signaling in mammalian hindgut development is unknown. Here, we show that mutant mice with various defects in the Shh signaling pathway exhibit a spectrum of distal hindgut defects mimicking human anorectal malformations. Shh null-mutant mice display persistent cloaca. Mutant mice lacking Gli2 or Gli3, two zinc finger transcription factors involved in Shh signaling, respectively, exhibit imperforate anus with recto-urethral fistula and anal stenosis. Furthermore, persistent cloaca is also observed in Gli2(-/-);Gli3(+/-), Gli2(+/-);Gli3(-/-), and Gli2(-/-);Gli3(-/-) mice demonstrating a gene dose-dependent effect. Therefore, Shh signaling is essential for normal development of the distal hindgut in mice and mutations affecting Shh signaling produce a spectrum of anorectal malformations that may reveal new insights into their human disease equivalents.

Murine models of VACTERL syndrome: Role of sonic hedgehog signaling pathway

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

VACTERL syndrome is a common surgical condition affecting the development of many midaxial organs. The etiology, embryology, and pathogenesis of the VACTERL syndrome are not known. The authors report here new mouse models of VACTERL syndrome involving the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway.

METHODS

Mutant mice involving Shh signaling, the Shh transcription factors Gli2-/- and Gli3-/-, Gli2-/-;Gli3+/- double heterozygotes, and Shh-/- were analyzed.

RESULTS

In addition to reported vertebral, anal, tracheoesophageal, and limb anomalies, mutant mice display cardiac, renal, and associated anomalies, namely congenital diaphragmatic hernia and omphalocele, known to be associated in VACTERL syndrome. The Shh transcription factors Gli2 and Gli3 have specific and overlapping roles in the induction of VACTERL phenotypes in a gene-dose dependent manner in these mutants.

CONCLUSION

To the authors' knowledge, these mutant mice represent the first animal model that mimics the human VACTERL syndrome, and suggests that aberrations in Shh signaling might be involved in the VACTERL syndrome.

Murine homologs of deltex define a novel gene family involved in vertebrate Notch signaling and neurogenesis

Notch signaling plays an important role in cell-fate specification in multicellular organisms by regulating cell-cell communication. The Drosophila deltex gene encodes a modulator of the Notch pathway that has been shown to interact physically with the Ankyrin repeats of Notch. We isolated four distinct cDNAs corresponding to mouse homologs of deltex - mouse Deltex1 (MDTX1), mouse Deltex2 (MDTX2), mouse Deltex2DeltaE (MDTX2DeltaE), and mouse Deltex3 (MDTX3). Deduced amino acid sequences of these four cDNAs showed a high degree of similarity to Drosophila Deltex and its human homolog, DTX1 throughout their lengths, even though they possess distinct structural features. MDTX proteins formed homotypic and heterotypic multimers. We found that these genes were expressed in the central, peripheral nervous system and in the thymus, overlapping with those of mouse Notch1. In mammalian tissue culture cells, overexpression of any of the four mouse deltex homologs suppressed the transcriptional activity of E47, a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) protein, in a manner similar to suppression by an activated form of human Notch1 or human DTX1. In addition, overexpression of MDTX2 and MDTX2DeltaE in C2C12 cells under differentiation-inducing conditions suppressed the expression of myogenin, one of the myogenic transcriptional factors; this was also similar to a previously reported activity of constitutively activated Notch. Furthermore, misexpression of any of the MDTX genes in Xenopus embryos resulted in an expansion of the region expressing the neural cell adhesion molecule (N-CAM) gene, a marker for the neuroepithelium. Collectively, our results suggest that these mouse deltex homologs are involved in vertebrate Notch signaling and regulation of neurogenesis.

Studies directed towards the refinement of the pancratistatin cytotoxic pharmacophore

Two deoxy-analogues of the anticancer/antiviral agent pancratistatin containing functionality complementary to the minimum structural pharmacophore were synthesized and subjected to anticancer screening. One of the analogues exhibited selective inhibition of certain tumor cell lines but was significantly less potent than the natural products. The minimum structural pharmacophore has now been refined from eight to three possible structures.

Rh type B glycoprotein is a new member of the Rh superfamily and a putative ammonia transporter in mammals

Ammonium transporters play a key functional role in nitrogen uptake and assimilation in microorganisms and plants; however, little is known about their structural counterpart in mammals. Here, we report the molecular cloning and biochemical characterization of Rh type B glycoproteins, human RhBG and mouse Rhbg, two new members of the Rh family with distinct tissue specificities. The RhBG orthologues possess a conserved 12-transmembrane topology and most resemble bacterial and archaeal ammonium transporters. Human RHBG resides at chromosome 1q21.3, which harbors candidate genes for medullary cystic kidney disease, whereas mouse Rhbg is syntenic on chromosome 3. Northern blot and in situ hybridization revealed that RHBG and Rhbg are predominantly expressed in liver, kidney, and skin, the specialized organs involving ammonia genesis, excretion, or secretion. Confocal microscopy showed that RhBG is located in the plasma membrane and in some intracellular granules. Western blots of membrane proteins from stable HEK293 cells and from mouse kidney and liver confirmed this distribution. N-Glycanase digestion showed that RhBG/Rhbg has a carbohydrate moiety probably attached at the NHS motif on exoloop 1. Phylogenetic clustering, tissue-specific expression, and plasma membrane location suggest that RhBG homologous proteins are the long sought major ammonium transporters in mammalians.

Characterization of human RhCG and mouse Rhcg as novel nonerythroid Rh glycoprotein homologues predominantly expressed in kidney and testis

In mammals, the Rh family includes the variable Rh polypeptides and invariant RhAG glycoprotein. These polytopic proteins are confined to the erythroid lineage and are assembled into a multisubunit complex essential for Rh antigen expression and plasma membrane integrity. Here, we report the characterization of RhCG and Rhcg, a pair of novel Rh homologues present in human and mouse nonerythroid tissues. Despite sharing a notable similarity to the erythroid forms, including the 12-transmembrane topological fold, the RHCG/Rhcg pair is distinct in chromosome location, genomic organization, promoter structure, and tissue-specific expression. RHCG and Rhcg map at 15q25 of human chromosome 15 and the long arm of mouse chromosome 7, respectively, each having 11 exons and a CpG-rich promoter. Northern blots detected kidney and testis as the major organs of RHCG or Rhcg expression. In situ hybridization revealed strong expression of Rhcg in the kidney collecting tubules and testis seminiferous tubules. Confocal imaging of transiently expressed green fluorescence protein fusion proteins localized RhCG exclusively to the plasma membrane, a distribution confirmed by cellular fractionation and Western blot analysis. In vitro translation and ex vivo expression showed that RhCG carries a complex N-glycan, probably at the (48)NLS(50) sequon of exoloop 1. These results pinpoint RhCG and Rhcg as novel polytopic membrane glycoproteins that may function as epithelial transporters maintaining normal homeostatic conditions in kidney and testis.

Cloning and characterization of the murine glucosamine-6-phosphate acetyltransferase EMeg32. Differential expression and intracellular membrane association

N-Linked glycosylation is a post-translational modification occurring in many eukaryotic secreted and surface-bound proteins and has impact on diverse physiological and pathological processes. Similarly important is the generation of glycosylphosphatidylinositol linkers, which anchor membrane proteins to the cell. Both protein modifications depend on the central nucleotide sugar UDP-N-acetylglucosamine (UDP-GlcNAc). The enzymatic reactions leading to generation of nucleotide sugars are established, yet most of the respective genes still await cloning. We describe the characterization of such a gene, EMeg32, which we identified based on its differential expression in murine hematopoietic precursor cells. We further demonstrate regulated expression during embryogenesis. EMeg32 codes for a 184-amino acid protein exhibiting glucosamine-6-phosphate acetyltransferase activity. It thereby holds a key position in the pathway toward de novo UDP-GlcNAc synthesis. Surprisingly, the protein associates with the cytoplasmic side of various intracellular membranes, accumulates prior to mitosis, and copurifies with the cdc48 homolog p97/valosin-containing protein.

New mouse models of congenital anorectal malformations

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The genetic, embryological, and pathogenetic aspects of hindgut development remain poorly understood. Recently, the morphogenetic pathway involving the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) gene has been shown essential to the normal development of many midaxial organs, including the foregut. This study reports genetically based murine models of congenital anorectal malformations (CAM) involving the Shh-responsive transcription factors, Gli2 and Gli3. Its purpose is to show the necessity of these 2 factors to normal hindgut development.

METHODS

Gli2-/- mutants were generated by a targeted deletion. Gli3-/- mutants are spontaneous mutants involving the Gli3 gene. Gli2-/- Gli3+/- mutants were generated by intercrossing double heterozygotes. Whole-mount midsagittal sections of the embryos were analyzed on embryonic days (E) 11.5 and E13.5.

RESULTS

Gli3-/- mutants had anal stenosis and ectopic anus, and Gli2-/- mutants showed imperforate anus and rectourethral fistula. Gli2-/- Gli3+/- mutants had a cloacal abnormality.

CONCLUSIONS

The phenotypic abnormalities observed in these mutant mice are identical to the spectrum of human CAM. The severity of the phenotype appears to reflect the gene dose. Gli2 and Gli3 play an important role in the normal development of murine hindgut. The results of this study provide, for the first time, a molecular basis for CAM.

Essential function of Gli2 and Gli3 in the formation of lung, trachea and oesophagus

Foregut malformations (oesophageal atresia, tracheo-oesophageal fistula, lung anomalies and congenital stenosis of the oesophagus and trachea) are relatively common anomalies occurring in 1 in 2,000-5,000 live births, although their aetiology is poorly understood. The secreted glycoprotein Sonic hedgehog (Shh) has been suggested to act as an endodermal signal that controls hindgut patterning and lung growth. In mice, three zinc-finger transcription factors, Gli1, Gli2 and Gli3, have been implicated in the transduction of Shh signal. We report here that mutant mice lacking Gli2 function exhibit foregut defects, including stenosis of the oesophagus and trachea, as well as hypoplasia and lobulation defects of the lung. A reduction of 50% in the gene dosage of Gli3 in a Gli2-/- background resulted in oesophageal atresia with tracheo-oesophageal fistula and a severe lung phenotype. Mutant mice lacking both Gli2 and Gli3 function did not form oesophagus, trachea and lung. These results indicate that Gli2 and Gli3 possess specific and overlapping functions in Shh signalling during foregut development, and suggest that mutations in GLI genes may be involved in human foregut malformations.

The Shh signalling pathway in tooth development: defects in Gli2 and Gli3 mutants

The expression of genes involved in the Sonic Hedgehog signalling pathway, including Shh, Ptc, Smo, Gli1, Gli2 and Gli3, were found to be expressed in temporal and spatial patterns during early murine tooth development, suggestive of a role in early tooth germ initiation and subsequent epithelial-mesenchymal interactions. Of these Ptc, Smo, Gli1, Gli2 and Gli3 were expressed in epithelium and mesenchyme whereas Shh was only detected in epithelium. This suggests that Shh is involved in both lateral (epithelial-mesenchymal) and planar (epithelial-epithelial) signalling in early tooth development. Ectopic application of Shh protein to mandibular mesenchyme induced the expression of Ptc and Gli1. Addition of exogenous Shh protein directly into early tooth germs and adjacent to tooth germs, resulted in abnormal epithelial invagination, indicative of a role for Shh in epithelial cell proliferation. In order to assess the possible role of this pathway, tooth development in Gli2 and Gli3 mutant embryos was investigated. Gli2 mutants were found to have abnormal development of maxillary incisors, probably resulting from a mild holoprosencephaly, whereas Gli3 mutants had no major tooth abnormalities. Gli2/Gli3 double homozygous mutants did not develop any normal teeth and did not survive beyond embryonic day 14.5; however, Gli2(−/−); Gli3(+/−) did survive until birth and had small molars and mandibular incisors whereas maxillary incisor development was arrested as a rudimentary epithelial thickening. These results show an essential role for Shh signalling in tooth development that involves functional redundancy of downstream Gli genes.

Diminished Sonic hedgehog signaling and lack of floor plate differentiation in Gli2 mutant mice

Floor plate cells at the midline of the neural tube are specified by high-level activity of Sonic hedgehog (Shh) secreted by notochord, whereas motor neurons are thought to be specified by a lower level activity of Shh secreted in turn by floor plate cells. In Drosophila, the Gli zinc finger protein Cubitus interruptus functions as a transcription factor activating Hedgehog-responsive genes. We report that the expression of known Shh-responsive genes such as Ptc and Gli1 is downregulated in mutant mice lacking Gli2 function. Gli2 mutants fail to develop a floor plate yet still develop motor neurons, which occupy the ventral midline of the neural tube. Our results imply that Gli2 is required to mediate high level but not low level Shh activity and show that the development of motor neurons can occur in the absence of floor plate induction.

Beta-2 adrenoceptor genetic variation is associated with genetic predisposition to essential hypertension: The Bergen Blood Pressure Study

We tested the hypothesis that genetic variation in the beta-2 adrenoceptor gene is associated with a genetic predisposition to hypertension. Offspring of two hypertensive parents were compared with offspring of two normotensive parents. The subjects were participants of the Bergen Blood Pressure Study, where couples were recruited in 1963 to 1964 and re-examined in 1990. We studied offspring of those couples in which both partners were either hypertensive or normotensive in both examinations. Twenty-three hypertensive and 22 normotensive families met the inclusion criteria. DNA samples from the first born of hypertensive family-history offspring and normotensive family-history offspring were analyzed. We used multiplex sequencing and specifically examined the promoter and the N-terminal portion of the beta-2 adrenoceptor gene. We found four genetic variants: at position -47, a C-->T substitution in the 5' leader cistron causing an Arg-->Cys exchange, at -20, a T-->C substitution, at +46 an A-->G substitution leading to an Arg16-->Gly exchange, and at +79, a C-->G substitution leading to a Gln27-->Glu exchange. The frequency of the Arg16 allele was significantly higher in the hypertensive family-history offspring compared to normotensive family-history offspring (58% vs. 28% P < 0.011). We constructed haplotypes for the four intragenic variants and found significant linkage dysequilibrium. In particular, the 5' leader cistron mutant with the wild type alleles at the other loci was significantly more frequent in offspring of hypertensive parents, compared to offspring of normotensive parents. We also performed a relative risk analysis comparing the Gly/Gly, Arg/Gly, and Arg/Arg alleles, which implicated the Arg-containing allele. Finally, we analyzed the effect of genotype on blood pressure in the offspring. We found a significant step-wise effect for all four polymorphisms examined. Our data suggest that the Arg variant of the Arg-->Gly exchange is associated with parental hypertension and higher blood pressure values in this northern European population.

Activation of stress-activated protein kinases/c-Jun N-terminal protein kinases (SAPKs/JNKs) by a novel mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) kinases (MKKs) are dual-specificity protein kinases that phosphorylate and activate MAPK. We have isolated a cDNA encoding a novel protein kinase that has significant homology to MKKs. The novel kinase MKK7 has a nucleotide sequence that encodes an open reading frame of 347 amino acids with 11 kinase subdomains. MKK7 is ubiquitously expressed in all adult and embryonic organs but displays high expression in epithelial tissues at later stages of fetal development. When transiently expressed in 293 cells, MKK7 specifically activated stress-activated protein kinases (SAPKs)/c-Jun N-terminal protein kinases (JNKs) but not extracellular-regulated kinase or p38 kinase. A kinase-negative mutant of MKK7 inhibits interleukin-1beta, lipopolysaccharide, and MEKK1-induced SAPK/JNK activation. Thus, MKK7 is a new member of the MAPK kinase family that functions upstream of SAPK/JNK in the SAPK/JNK signaling pathway.

Brca2 is required for embryonic cellular proliferation in the mouse

Mutations of the tumor suppressor gene BRCA2 are associated with predisposition to breast and other cancers. Homozygous mutant mice in which exons 10 and 11 of the Brca2 gene were deleted by gene targeting (Brca2(10-11)) die before day 9.5 of embryogenesis. Mutant phenotypes range from severely developmentally retarded embryos that do not gastrulate to embryos with reduced size that make mesoderm and survive until 8.5 days of development. Although apoptosis is normal, cellular proliferation is impaired in Brca2(10-11) mutants, both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, the expression of the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 is increased. Thus, Brca2(10-11) mutants are similar in phenotype to Brca1(5-6) mutants but less severely affected. Expression of either of these two genes was unaffected in mutant embryos of the other. This study shows that Brca2, like Brca1, is required for cellular proliferation during embryogenesis. The similarity in phenotype between Brca1 and Brca2 mutants suggests that these genes may have cooperative roles or convergent functions during embryogenesis.

Specific and redundant functions of Gli2 and Gli3 zinc finger genes in skeletal patterning and development

The correct patterning of vertebrate skeletal elements is controlled by inductive interactions. Two vertebrate hedgehog proteins, Sonic hedgehog and Indian hedgehog, have been implicated in skeletal development. During somite differentiation and limb development, Sonic hedgehog functions as an inductive signal from the notochord, floor plate and zone of polarizing activity. Later in skeletogenesis, Indian hedgehog functions as a regulator of chondrogenesis during endochondral ossification. The vertebrate Gli zinc finger proteins are putative transcription factors that respond to Hedgehog signaling. In Drosophila, the Gli homolog cubitus interruptus is required for the activation of hedgehog targets and also functions as a repressor of hedgehog expression. We show here that Gli2 mutant mice exhibit severe skeletal abnormalities including cleft palate, tooth defects, absence of vertebral body and intervertebral discs, and shortened limbs and sternum. Interestingly, Gli2 and Gli3 (C.-c. Hui and A. L. Joyner (1993). Nature Genet. 3, 241–246) mutant mice exhibit different subsets of skeletal defects indicating that they implement specific functions in the development of the neural crest, somite and lateral plate mesoderm derivatives. Although Gli2 and Gli3 are not functionally equivalent, double mutant analysis indicates that, in addition to their specific roles, they also serve redundant functions during skeletal development. The role of Gli2 and Gli3 in Hedgehog signaling during skeletal development is discussed.

Fourth component of Xenopus laevis complement: cDNA cloning and linkage analysis of the frog MHC

Complement C4 shows extensive structural and functional similarity to complement C3, hence these components are believed to have originated by gene duplication from a common ancestor. Although to date C3 cDNA clones have been isolated from all major classes of extant vertebrates including Xenopus, C4 cDNA clones have been isolated from mammalian species only. We describe here the molecular cloning and structural analysis of Xenopus C4 cDNA. The cDNA sequence encoding the thioester region of Xenopus C4 was amplified by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction using Xenopus liver mRNA as a template, and then used to screen a liver cDNA library. The amino acid sequence of Xenopus C4 deduced from a clone containing the entire protein-coding sequence showed 39%, 30%, 25%, and 20% overall identity with those of human C4, C3, C5, and alpha2-macroglobulin, respectively. The predicted amino acid sequence consisted of a 22-residue putative signal peptide, a 634-residue beta chain, a 732-residue alpha chain, and a 287-residue gamma chain. Of 30 cysteine residues, 27 were found in exactly the same positions as in human C4. Genomic Southern blotting analysis indicated that C4 is a single copy gene in Xenopus and is part of the frog MHC cluster. These results clearly demonstrate that C3/C4 gene duplication and linkage between the C4 gene and the major histocompatibility complex predate mammalian/amphibian divergence.

The tumor suppressor gene Brca1 is required for embryonic cellular proliferation in the mouse

Mutations of the BRCA1 gone in humans are associated with predisposition to breast and ovarian cancers. We show here that Brca1+/- mice are normal and fertile and lack tumors by age eleven months. Homozygous Brca1(5-6) mutant mice die before day 7.5 of embryogenesis. Mutant embryos are poorly developed, with no evidence of mesoderm formation. The extraembryonic region is abnormal, but aggregation with wild-type tetraploid embryos does not rescue the lethality. In vivo, mutant embryos do not exhibit increased apoptosis but show reduced cell proliferation accompanied by decreased expression of cyclin E and mdm-2, a regulator of p53 activity. The expression of cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21 is dramatically increased in the mutant embryos. Buttressing these in vivo observations is the fact that mutant blastocyst growth is grossly impaired in vitro. Thus, the death of Brca1(5-6) mutant embryos prior to gastrulation may be due to a failure of the proliferative burst required for the development of the different germ layers.

The Bergen blood pressure study: offspring of two hypertensive parents have significantly higher blood pressures than offspring of one hypertensive and one normotensive parent

OBJECTIVE

To study blood pressure and antihypertensive drug treatment in subjects with contrasting family histories of hypertension.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We grouped 520 offspring examined in 1990 (mean +/- SD age 36 +/- 7 years) according to their parents' blood pressure screened in 1963-1964 as offspring of two normotensive (systolic/diastolic blood pressure < 135/70 mmHg) parents (group 1); offspring of one hypertensive (> or = 145/95 mmHg) and one normotensive (<135/70 mmHg) parent (group 2); and offspring of two hypertensive (> or = 140/90 mmHg) parents (group 3). Offspring blood pressure was measured with a conventional mercury sphygmomanometer by one observer. The mean of the last two of three seated measurements was used for analyses. Drug treatment was determined by interview.

RESULTS

Mean +/- SD blood pressure was lowest in group 1 (121 +/- 12/72 +/- 10 mmHg), intermediate in group 2 (125 +/- 12/76 +/- 9 mmHg) and highest in group 3 (135 +/- 15/85 +/- 11 mmHg), P<0.01 for each. Of the subjects in groups 1, 2 and 3, 1.3, 2.4 and 11.7%, respectively, were taking antihypertensive drugs (P<0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Screening blood pressure in parents has implications for offspring blood pressure almost 30 years later. Offspring of hypertensive parents have higher blood pressure and are given antihypertensive drugs at higher rates than the offspring of normotensive parents. Also, substantial differences were seen between the offspring of one and of two hypertensive parents. Thus, risk associated with a family history of hypertension varies with the definition of the family history. To obtain maximum contrast in the predisposition to high blood pressure, comparative studies in offspring of hypertensive and normotensive families should be based on blood pressure data from both parents.

The Bergen Blood Pressure Study: prehypertensive changes in cardiac structure and function in offspring of hypertensive families

Cardiac morphology and function were determined by echocardiography in normotensive offspring of 23 hypertensive and 22 normotensive families. The family histories of hypertension or normotension were based on 27 years' observation of parental blood pressure. Pulsed Doppler and M-mode echocardiography were performed in standard views. Out of the total 109 offspring, 94 participated in the present study (age (mean +/- SD) 36 +/- 7 years). Left ventricular posterior wall thickness was higher in offspring of hypertensive than normotensive families (10.1 +/- 1.7 vs. 9.3 +/- 1.5 mm; p < 0.05). Offspring of hypertensive families had lower transmitral early/late peak flow velocities (p < 0.001) and higher transmitral late peak flow velocities (p < 0.001) than offspring of normotensive families, but the differences between groups became inconsistent after adjustment for confounding variables (including left ventricular structural parameters). On the other hand, the family history of hypertension was consistently associated with increased transmitral early peak flow velocity and increased transmitral acceleration and deceleration slopes p < 0.05), a pattern suggesting increased left ventricular stiffness. Increased posterior wall thickness and diastolic functional changes may indicate cardiac hypertrophy and decreased left ventricular compliance and precede the development of hypertension in offspring of hypertensive families.

The Bergen Blood Pressure Study: inappropriately low levels of circulating atrial natriuretic peptide in offspring of hypertensive families

Plasma atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), plasma and 24-h urine catecholamines, plasma renin activity (PRA), and serum aldosterone were studied in offspring of hypertensive and normotensive families [n = 82; age 37 +/- 7 years (mean +/- SD)]. Despite higher age, higher blood pressure, and higher urine excretion of catecholamines--all of which are factors associated with increased ANP levels--the mean basal plasma ANP concentration tended to be lower in offspring of hypertensive than normotensive families. The same pattern was found in all age-tertiles, and the between-group difference was statistically significant in subjects aged 34-39 years (p < 0.01). Also, the family history of hypertension was associated with low ANP levels after covariate adjustment (p < 0.05). The 24-h urine excretion of epinephrine and norepinephrine tended to be higher in offspring of hypertensive than normotensive families while the morning venous plasma levels were similar. The ratio between venous plasma ANP and norepinephrine was lower in offspring of hypertensive than normotensive families (p < 0.05). PRA, serum aldosterone level, and 24-h urine excretion of dopamine did not differ significantly between groups. Inappropriately low basal plasma ANP concentrations and low plasma ANP/norepinephrine ratios may be related to the development of essential hypertension in offspring of hypertensive families.

[Effects of shenyan yiqiye on experimental membranous glomerulonephritis in rabbits]

The cationic bovine serum albumin (C-BSA) was used for duplicating experimental animal model of membranous glomerulonephritis with chronic renal failure. Shenyan Yiqiye (SYYQY) was adopted for treatment. The results showed that, in the therapeutic group, the urine protein and serum creatinine were reduced as compared with those in pathological group, P < 0.01. The parameter of morphometric analysis of glomeruli such as mean diameter, mean perimeter, mean surface area, mean volume, mean cross sectional area were all decreased, P < 0.01, the number of glomerular proliferative cells and thickness of glomerular capillary wall were all attenuated, P < 0.01, as compared with those in the pathological group. It suggested that SYYQY might alleviate the glomeruli lesions and benefit the renal functions.

The Bergen Blood Pressure Study. Estimated prevalence of postural hypotension is influenced by the alerting reaction to blood pressure measurement

The prevalence of postural hypotension, defined as a > or = 20 mmHg decline in SBP from the sitting to the standing position, was studied in 430 subjects aged 67.2 +/- 6.8 years (mean +/- SD). Before the subjects assumed the upright position, three sitting measurements were performed. The difference between the first sitting and standing recording revealed a postural hypotension prevalence of 18.9%. However, when the mean of the two last sitting recordings was used as baseline, only 4.9% of the subjects experienced a > or = 20 mmHg drop in SBP on standing. It is well documented that the alerting reaction to conventional sphygmomanometry causes the BP to rise and that BP decreases spontaneously with repeated measurements. When postural hypotension is based on the difference between the first sitting and the standing recording, the change in BP is not caused by the change in posture alone but reflects the effect of repeated measurements and the regression-towards-the-mean-phenomenon as well. Consequently, the prevalence of postural hypotension is overestimated. Repeated baseline recordings are encouraged in the assessment of postural hypotension.

The Bergen blood pressure study: sodium intake and ambulatory blood pressure in offspring of hypertensive and normotensive families

Sodium intake, estimated by the 24-h urine sodium excretion, was assessed in 39 offspring of hypertensive families and 37 offspring of normotensive families. The family history of hypertension or normotension was defined according to parental BP data from two surveys conducted 27 years apart. Urine-sodium excretion was similar in offspring of hypertensive and normotensive families, averaging 136 and 137 mmol/24 h, respectively. Monitored by non-invasive methodology in the urine sampling period, the average 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (BP) was approximately 10/10 mmHg higher in offspring of hypertensive than normotensive families. The clinically and statistically significant differences in BP between groups could not be explained by differences in sodium intake. After adjustment for confounding variables, the BP was not associated with the sodium excretion in the material as a whole or in either offspring group.

The Bergen Blood Pressure Study: ambulatory blood pressure in subjects with an accurately defined family history of hypertension or normotension

24-hour ambulatory blood pressure (BP) was monitored by non-invasive methods in 42 offspring of hypertensive families (age [mean (SD1)] 40(7) years) and 38 offspring of normotensive families (age 33(6) years). The family history was defined according to parental BP data from two surveys conducted 27 years apart. Casual BP was 137(17)/84(12) mmHg in offspring of hypertensive families and 117(9)/69(6) mmHg in offspring of normotensive families (difference: p < 0.001). Average 24-h BP was 123(10)/74(6) mmHg and 113(8)/65(5) mmHg, respectively (difference: p < 0.001). The systolic and diastolic BP difference of approximately 10 mmHg was observed between the groups throughout the monitoring period. Hypertension--defined according to a recent meta-analysis as an average 24-h BP > or = 139/87 mmHg--was found in 6 offspring of hypertensive families and in no offspring of normotensive families (p < 0.05). The 24-h systolic and diastolic BP load--the percentage of readings above 140/90 mmHg (day-time) and 120/80 mmHg (night-time)--was higher in offspring of hypertensive than normotensive families (27%/17% vs. 7%4%; p < 0.001). After adjustment for intrafamilial covariation, age, and other possibly confounding variables, the differences between the groups remained. The present findings suggest that BP in subjects with a family history of hypertension is elevated on a permanent basis, and not only when it is measured in the doctor's office.

The Bergen Blood Pressure Study: blood pressure changes, target organ damage and mortality in subjects with high and low blood pressure over 27 years

Based on the Bergen population screening in 1963-64, 344 married couples (688 subjects), then aged 30-69 years, were included for studies in families with a history of hypertension or normotension. In 1990 430 subjects were available to a follow-up examination. The present paper describes 27-year mortality, blood pressure (BP) changes, cardiovascular disease and target organ damage in this population. In males who were hypertensive by the 1963-64 screening BP, the all-cause 27-year mortality was three times higher than in initially normotensive males (p < 0.05). From 1963-64 to 1990, the systolic BP was generally increased, whereas the diastolic BP was decreased in initially hypertensive and increased in initially normotensive subjects. In subjects who were hypertensive in 1963-64, the relative risk of hypertension in 1990 was more than seven times higher than in initially normotensive subjects (p < 0.05), cardiovascular events were reported more often (p < 0.001), and the mean electrocardiographic left ventricular voltage was higher (p < 0.01). Proteinuria was more frequent in initially hypertensive than normotensive males (p < 0.01). In summary, hypertension defined by a single BP recording at the 1963-64 screening was a risk factor for hypertension, cardiovascular morbidity and, for males, all-cause mortality 27 years later. With respect to offspring studies, our findings substantiate the classification of hypertensive and normotensive families. From 1963-64 to 1990, the BP status had changed in several couples, and the long observation period seems mandatory if a reliable definition of the family history of hypertension or normotension is to be obtained.

[How much is the decrease in blood pressure shown by repeated measurements during the same examination?]

The recommendations for blood pressure determination by sphygmomanometer encourage repeated measurements. In 430 subjects aged 56-87 years, three recordings were obtained at one minute intervals. On average, the blood pressure decreased 10/3 mm Hg from the first to the third recording (p < 0.001). The decrease was more pronounced in hypertensives (12/4 mmHg) than in normotensives (7/2 mm Hg) (p < 0.01), but was little influenced by sex, age, or body mass. A change of 10/3 mm Hg is relevant with respect to the risk of cardiovascular disease, diagnosis of hypertension, and antihypertensive therapy. Also, repeated measurements may reduce the number of falsely positive hypertensives, and is recommended as the standard procedure in conventional blood pressure determination.