Antihypertensive treatment during pregnancy induces long-term changes in gut microbiota and the behaviors of the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder offspring

The pathogenesis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has not been fully elucidated. Gestational hypertension could double the probability of ADHD in the offspring, while the initial bacterial communication between the mother and offspring has been associated with psychiatric disorders. Thus, we hypothesize that antihypertensive treatment during pregnancy may abate the impairments in neurodevelopment of the offspring. To test this hypothesis, we chose Captopril and Labetalol, to apply to pregnant spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) dams and examined the outcomes in the male offspring. Our data demonstrated that maternal treatment with Captopril and Labetalol had long-lasting changes in gut microbiota and behavioral alterations, including decreased hyperactivity and increased curiosity, spatial learning and memory in the male offspring. Increased diversity and composition were identified, and some ADHD related bacteria were found to have the same change in the gut microbiota of both the dam and offspring after the treatments. LC-MS/MS and immunohistochemistry assays suggested elevated expression of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and dopamine in the prefrontal cortex and striatum of offspring exposed to Captopril/ Labetalol, which may account for the improvement of the offspring's psychiatric functions. Therefore, our results support the beneficial long-term effects of the intervention of gestational hypertension in the prevention of ADHD.

[Pathogenetic analysis of transfusion-related acute lung injury caused by human leukocytes antigen antibody against human leukocyte antigen]

From September 2019 to October 2020, pathogenetic analysis of three patients clinically diagnosed as transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) caused by human leukocyte antibodies was conducted by Guangzhou Blood Centre, including 2 males and 1 female, aged 56, 50 and 20 years old, respectively. Solid phase agglutination, anti-human globulin test and flow cytometry method were used to detect the presence of antibodies against patients. Sequencing-based human leukocyte antigen (HLA-SBT) typing technique was used to detect the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genotypes of patients. Lifecodes single antigen class Ⅰ/Ⅱ kit (LSA-Ⅰ/Ⅱ) were used to detect the specificity of HLA-class Ⅰ and class Ⅱ antibodies in donor blood by Luminex 200 liquid suspension chip system. The HLA specific antibodies and corresponding epitopes in donors were also analyzed. The results showed that　HLA class Ⅰ or class Ⅱ specific antibodies against TRALI patients were detected in the blood donors. The plasma of donor 3 received by patient 1 contained antibodies against the patient's HLA-DRB1*09∶01 antigen, and the epitopes mediating the antibody reaction of the donor and recipient were 70R, 31I, 70QA. There were antibodies against the HLA-A*11∶02, HLA-A*11∶01, DRB1*12∶02, and DRB1*09∶01 antigens of patient 2 in the plasma of donor 4, and the associated antigenic epitopes were 151AHA, 57V, and 16Y. Antibodies against the HLA-DRB1*14∶04, DRB1*11∶01, and DPB1*05∶01 antigens of patient 3 were present in the plasma of donor 6 and donor 7, and the associated epitopes were 96HK, 140TV, 13SE, and 111K.　Three cases of TRALI were confirmed to be caused by HLA antibodies through laboratory analysis, and human leukocyte antibody detection should be paid attention in clinically suspected cases of TRALI, and targeted diagnosis and treatment should be given.

Mechanism and intervention of murine transfusion-related acute lung injury caused by anti-CD36 antibodies

Anti-CD36 Abs have been suggested to induce transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) upon blood transfusion, particularly in Asian populations. However, little is known about the pathological mechanism of anti-CD36 Ab-mediated TRALI, and potential therapies have not yet been identified. Here, we developed a murine model of anti-CD36 Ab-mediated TRALI to address these questions. Administration of mouse mAb against CD36 (mAb GZ1) or human anti-CD36 IgG, but not GZ1 F(ab')2 fragments, induced severe TRALI in Cd36+/+ male mice. Predepletion of recipient monocytes or complement, but not neutrophils or platelets, prevented the development of murine TRALI. Moreover, plasma C5a levels after TRALI induction by anti-CD36 Abs increased more than 3-fold, implying a critical role of complement C5 activation in the mechanism of Fc-dependent anti-CD36-mediated TRALI. Administration of GZ1 F(ab')2, antioxidant (N-acetyl cysteine, NAC), or C5 blocker (mAb BB5.1) before TRALI induction completely protected mice from anti-CD36-mediated TRALI. Although no significant amelioration in TRALI was observed when mice were injected with GZ1 F(ab')2 after TRALI induction, significant improvement was achieved when mice were treated postinduction with NAC or anti-C5. Importantly, anti-C5 treatment completely rescued mice from TRALI, suggesting the potential role of existing anti-C5 drugs in the treatment of patients with TRALI caused by anti-CD36.

Hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus hydrogen sulfide exerts antihypertensive effects in spontaneously hypertensive rats via the Nrf2 pathway

BACKGROUND

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is widely distributed throughout the nervous system with various antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Hypertension involves an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammation in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN). However, it is unclear how H2S in PVN affects hypertension.

METHODS

Our study used spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and control Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats, microinjected with Adenovirus-Associated Virus (AAV)-CBS (cystathionine beta-synthase overexpression) or AAV-ZsGreeen in bilateral PVN, or simultaneously injected with virus-carrying nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2)-shRNA for 4w. Blood pressure and plasma noradrenaline level were detected, and the PVN was collected. Finally, levels of CBS, H2S, Nrf2, Fra-LI, ROS, gp91 phox, p47 phox, superoxide dismutase 1, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor-α, tyrosine hydroxylase and glutamate decarboxylase 67 were measured.

RESULTS

We found that AAV-CBS increased H2S in the PVN, and blood pressure, neuronal activation, oxidative stress, and inflammation of PVN were substantially reduced. Furthermore, endogenous H2S in the PVN activated Nrf2 and corrected the PVN's imbalance of excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters. However, Nrf2 knockdown in the PVN was similarly observed to abolish the beneficial effect of H2S on hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings imply that endogenous H2S in SHR PVN is reduced, and PVN endogenous H2S can alleviate hypertension via Nrf2-mediated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Faecalibacterium prausnitzii Attenuates CKD via Butyrate-Renal GPR43 Axis

BACKGROUND

Despite available clinical management strategies, chronic kidney disease (CKD) is associated with severe morbidity and mortality worldwide, which beckons new solutions. Host-microbial interactions with a depletion of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii in CKD are reported. However, the mechanisms about if and how F prausnitzii can be used as a probiotic to treat CKD remains unknown.

METHODS

We evaluated the microbial compositions in 2 independent CKD populations for any potential probiotic. Next, we investigated if supplementation of such probiotic in a mouse CKD model can restore gut-renal homeostasis as monitored by its effects on suppression on renal inflammation, improvement in gut permeability and renal function. Last, we investigated the molecular mechanisms underlying the probiotic-induced beneficial outcomes.

RESULTS

We observed significant depletion of Faecalibacterium in the patients with CKD in both Western (n=283) and Eastern populations (n=75). Supplementation of F prausnitzii to CKD mice reduced renal dysfunction, renal inflammation, and lowered the serum levels of various uremic toxins. These are coupled with improved gut microbial ecology and intestinal integrity. Moreover, we demonstrated that the beneficial effects in kidney induced by F prausnitzii-derived butyrate were through the GPR (G protein-coupled receptor)-43.

CONCLUSIONS

Using a mouse CKD model, we uncovered a novel beneficial role of F prausnitzii in the restoration of renal function in CKD, which is, at least in part, attributed to the butyrate-mediated GPR-43 signaling in the kidney. Our study provides the necessary foundation to harness the therapeutic potential of F prausnitzii for ameliorating CKD.

Na+/K+-ATPase Alpha 2 Isoform Elicits Rac1-Dependent Oxidative Stress and TLR4-Induced Inflammation in the Hypothalamic Paraventricular Nucleus in High Salt-Induced Hypertension

Numerous studies have indicated that a high salt diet inhibits brain Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase (NKA) activity, and affects oxidative stress and inflammation in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN). Furthermore, Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase alpha 2-isoform (NKA α2) may be a target in the brain, taking part in the development of salt-dependent hypertension. Therefore, we hypothesized that NKA α2 regulates oxidative stress and inflammation in the PVN in the context of salt-induced hypertension. Part I: We assessed NKA subunits (NKA α1, NKA α2, and NKA α3), Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase activity, oxidative stress, and inflammation in a high salt group (8% NaCl) and normal salt group (0.3% NaCl). Part II: NKA α2 short hairpin RNA (shRNA) was bilaterally microinjected into the PVN of salt-induced hypertensive rats to knockdown NKA α2, and we explored whether NKA α2 regulates downstream signaling pathways related to protein kinase C γ (PKC γ)-dependent oxidative stress and toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-induced inflammation in the PVN to promote the development of hypertension. High salt diet increased NKA α1 and NKA α2 protein expression in the PVN but had no effect on NKA α3 compared to the normal salt diet. Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase activity and ADP/ATP ratio was lower, but NAD(P)H activity and NF-κB activity in the PVN were higher after a high salt diet. Bilateral PVN microinjection of NKA α2 shRNA not only improved Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase activity and ADP/ATP ratio but also suppressed PKC γ-dependent oxidative stress and TLR4-dependent inflammation in the PVN, thus decreasing sympathetic activity in rats with salt-induced hypertension. NKA α2 in the PVN elicits PKC γ/Rac1/NAD (P)H-dependent oxidative stress and TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB-induced inflammation in the PVN, thus increasing MAP and sympathetic activity during the development of salt-induced hypertension.

Antihypertensive effects of exercise involve reshaping of gut microbiota and improvement of gut-brain axis in spontaneously hypertensive rat

Exercise (Ex) has long been recognized to produce beneficial effects on hypertension (HTN). This coupled with evidence of gut dysbiosis and an impaired gut-brain axis led us to hypothesize that reshaping of gut microbiota and improvement in impaired gut-brain axis would, in part, be associated with beneficial influence of exercise. Male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were randomized into sedentary, trained, and detrained groups. Trained rats underwent moderate-intensity exercise for 12 weeks, whereas, detrained groups underwent 8 weeks of moderate-intensity exercise followed by 4 weeks of detraining. Fecal microbiota, gut pathology, intestinal inflammation, and permeability, brain microglia and neuroinflammation were analyzed. We observed that exercise training resulted in a persistent decrease in systolic blood pressure in the SHR. This was associated with increase in microbial α diversity, altered β diversity, and enrichment of beneficial bacterial genera. Furthermore, decrease in the number of activated microglia, neuroinflammation in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus, improved gut pathology, inflammation, and permeability were also observed in the SHR following exercise. Interestingly, short-term detraining did not abolish these exercise-mediated improvements. Finally, fecal microbiota transplantation from exercised SHR into sedentary SHR resulted in attenuated SBP and an improved gut-brain axis. These observations support our concept that an impaired gut-brain axis is linked to HTN and exercise ameliorates this impairment to induce antihypertensive effects.

Curcumin ameliorates hypertension via gut-brain communication in spontaneously hypertensive rat

Gut dysbiosis and dysregulation of gut-brain communication have been identified in hypertensive patients and animal models. Previous studies have shown that probiotic or prebiotic treatments exert positive effects on the pathophysiology of hypertension. This study aimed to examine the hypothesis that the microbiota-gut-brain axis is involved in the antihypertensive effects of curcumin, a potential prebiotic obtained from Curcuma longa. Male 8- to 10-week-old spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) and Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were divided into four groups: WKY rats and SHRs treated with vehicle and SHRs treated with curcumin in dosage of 100 or 300 mg/kg/day for 12 weeks. Our results show that the elevated blood pressure of SHRs was markedly decreased in both curcumin-treated groups. Curcumin treatment also altered the gut microbial composition and improved intestinal pathology and integrity. These factors were associated with reduced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the hypothalamus paraventricular nucleus (PVN). Moreover, curcumin treatment increased butyrate levels in the plasma, which may be the result of increased butyrate-producing gut microorganisms. In addition, curcumin treatment also activated G protein-coupled receptor 43 (GPR 43) in the PVN. These results indicate that curcumin reshapes the composition of the gut microbiota and ameliorates the dysregulation of the gut-brain communication to induce antihypertensive effects.

Inhibition of Maternal c-Src Ameliorates the Male Offspring Hypertension by Suppressing Inflammation and Neurotransmitters in the Paraventricular Nucleus

Long-term maternal salt intake induces the hypertension in offspring. Numerous studies have also indicated that high-salt diet causes the inflammation and an imbalance in neurotransmitters in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) which increases the blood pressure and sympathetic activity. This study aimed to explore whether maternal salt intake induces hypertension in their male offspring by increasing the inflammation and changing the neurotransmitters balance in the paraventricular nucleus of offspring. This study includes two parts: Part I to explore the effect of high-salt diet on pregnant rats and the changes in inflammation and neurotransmitters in their male offspring PVN; Part II to reveal the influence on their offspring of bilateral PVN infusion of c-Src inhibitor dasatinib (DAS) in pregnant rats fed a high-salt diet. Maternal high-salt diet intake during copulation, pregnancy, and lactation impacted the offspring mean arterial pressure (MAP) and elevated the offspring PVN levels of p-Src, proinflammatory cytokines, and excitatory neurotransmitters. Bilateral PVN infusion of a c-Src inhibitor combined with maternal high-salt diets decreased MAP in the offspring. The infusion was also shown to suppress the Src-induced MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway (p38 MAPK, JNK, Erk1/2), which attenuates inflammatory reactions. Finally, bilateral PVN infusion of the Src inhibitor in pregnant rat with high-salt diets improved the levels of inhibitory neurotransmitters in offspring PVN, which restored the excitatory-inhibitory neurotransmitter balance in male offspring. High-salt diets increase sympathetic activity and blood pressure in adult offspring, probably by activating the c-Src/MAPKs/NF-κB signaling pathway-induced inflammation. Moreover, NF-κB disrupts the downstream excitatory-inhibitory neurotransmitter balance in the PVN of male offspring.

Altered Gut Microbiota is Involved in the Anti-Hypertensive Effects of Vitamin C in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat

SCOPE

Gut dysbiosis and dysregulation of the gut-brain-axis contributes to the pathogenesis of hypertension. Vitamin C (VC) is a common dietary supplement that shows the ability to lower the elevated blood pressure in hypertensive animals. Thus, the hypothesis that the gut microbiota is involved in the anti-hypertensive effect of VC is proposed.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The changes of the gut microbiota and pathology in a spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) model after daily oral intake of VC in dosage of 200 or 1000 mg kg-1 are examined. After 4 weeks, the elevated blood pressure of SHRs in both VC-treated groups is attenuated. Sequencing of the gut microbiota shows improvement in its diversity and abundance. Bioinformatic analysis suggests restored metabolism and biosynthesis-related functions of the gut, which are confirmed by the improvement of gut pathology and integrity. Analysis of the hypothalamus paraventricular nucleus (PVN), the central pivot of blood pressure regulation, also shows reduced inflammatory responses and oxidative stress.

CONCLUSIONS

The reduced blood pressure, enriched gut microbiota, improved gut pathology and integrity, and reduced inflammatory responses and oxidative stress in the PVN together suggest that the anti-hypertensive effects of VC involve reshaping of gut microbiota composition and function.

Calcitriol ameliorated autonomic dysfunction and hypertension by down-regulating inflammation and oxidative stress in the paraventricular nucleus of SHR

The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) plays crucial roles in central cardiovascular regulation. Increasing evidence in humans and rodents shows that vitamin D intake is important for achieving optimal cardiovascular function. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether calcitriol, an active form of vitamin D, improves autonomic and cardiovascular function in hypertensive rats and whether PVN oxidative stress and inflammation are involved in these beneficial effects. Male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive control Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats were treated with either calcitriol (40 ng/day) or vehicle (0.11 μL/h) through chronic PVN infusion for 4 weeks. Blood pressure and heart rate were recorded continuously by radiotelemetry. PVN tissue, heart and plasma were collected for molecular and histological analysis. Compared to WKY rats, SHR exhibited increased systolic blood pressure, sympathetic drive, and cardiac hypertrophy and remodeling. These were associated with higher mRNA and protein expression levels of high mobility box 1 (HMGB1), receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), proinflammatory cytokines, NADPH oxidase subunit in the PVN. In addition, increased norepinephrine in plasma, elevated reactive oxygen species levels and activation of microglia in the PVN were also observed in SHR. Chronic calcitriol treatment ameliorated these changes but not in WKY rats. Our results demonstrate that chronic infusion of calcitriol in the PVN ameliorates hypertensive responses, sympathoexcitation and retains cardiovascular function in SHR. Reduced inflammation and oxidative stress within the PVN are involved in these calcitriol-induced effects.

Endothelial cells in colorectal cancer

The dependence of tumor growth on neovascularization has become an important aspect of cancer biology. Tumor angiogenesis is one of the key mechanisms of tumorigenesis, growth and metastasis. The key events involved in this process are endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and vascular formation. Recent studies have revealed the importance of tumor-associated endothelial cells (TECs) in the development and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC), including epithelial proliferation, stem cell maintenance, angiogenesis, and immune remodeling. Decades of research have identified that the molecular basis of tumor angiogenesis includes vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) and their receptor family, which are the main targets of antiangiogenesis therapy. VEGFs and their receptors play key roles in the pathology of angiogenesis, and their overexpression indicates poor prognosis in CRC. This article reviews the characteristics of the tumor vasculature and the role of TECs in different stages of CRC and immune remodeling. We also discuss the biological effects of VEGFs and their receptor family as angiogenesis regulators and emphasize the clinical implications of TECs in clinical treatment.

Lymph node metastasis in Chinese patients with clinical T1 non-small cell lung cancer: A multicenter real-world observational study

Background

Approximately 8.3–15.9% of patients with clinical stage I non‐small cell lung cancer are subsequently shown to have lymph node metastasis. However, the clinical characteristics of patients with lymph node metastasis in China are not fully understood.

Methods

This is a multicenter retrospective analysis of pathological T1 non‐small cell lung cancer patients who underwent surgical resection from 2 January 2014 to 27 December 2017. Clinical and pathological information was collected with the assistance of the Large‐scale Data Analysis Center of Cancer Precision Medicine‐LinkDoc database. The clinical and pathological factors associated with lymph node metastasis were analyzed by univariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 10 885 participants (51.6% women; 15.3% squamous cell carcinoma) were included in the analysis. The median age was 60.0 years (range 12.9–86.6 years). A total of 1159 patients (10.6%) had metastases in mediastinal nodes (N2), and 640 patients (5.9%) had metastasis in pulmonary lymph nodes (N1). Most patients had T1b lung cancer (4766, 43.8%). Of the patients, 3260 (29.9%) were current or former smokers. The univariate and multivariate analyses showed that younger age, squamous cell carcinoma, poor differentiation, larger tumor size, carcinoembryonic antigen level ≥5 ng/mL, and vascular invasion (+) were significantly associated with higher percentages of lymph node metastases (P < 0.001 for all).

Conclusion

This real‐world study showed the significant association of lymph node metastasis with age, tumor size, histology and differentiation, carcinoembryonic antigen levels, and status of vascular invasion. Female patients with T1a adenocarcinoma in the right upper lobe barely had lymph node metastasis.

Silencing salusin β ameliorates heart failure in aged spontaneously hypertensive rats by ROS-relative MAPK/NF-κB pathways in the paraventricular nucleus

OBJECTIVE

Sustained hypertension is a major cause of heart failure in aging hypertensive patients. Salusin β, a novel bioactive peptide of 20 amino acids, has been reported to participate in various cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension. We therefore hypothesized that central knockdown of salusin β might be effective for hypertension-induced heart failure treatment.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Eighteen-month-old male aged spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) with heart failure and WKY rats were microinjected with either a specific adenoviral vector encoding salusin β shRNA (Ad-Sal-shRNA) or a scramble shRNA (Ad-Scr-shRNA) in the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) for 4 weeks. Radiotelemetry and echocardiography were used for measuring blood pressure and cardiac function, respectively. Blood samples and heart were harvested for evaluating plasma norepinephrine, tyrosine hydroxylase, and cardiac morphology, respectively. The mesenteric arteries were separated for measurement of vascular responses. The PVN was analyzed for salusin β, proinflammatory cytokines (PICs), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), NF-κB, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Compared with normotensive rats, aging SHR with heart failure had dramatically increased salusin β expression. Silencing salusin β with Ad-Sal-shRNA attenuated arterial pressure and improved autonomic function, cardiac and vascular dysfunction in aging SHR with heart failure, but not in aging WKY rats. Knockdown of salusin β significantly reduced paraventricular nucleus PICs levels, MAPK and NF-κB activity, and ROS levels in aging SHR with heart failure.

CONCLUSION

These data demonstrate that in aging SHR, the heart failure that was developed during the end stage of hypertension could be ameliorated by silencing salusin β.

DNA methylation mediated silencing of microRNA-874 is a promising diagnosis and prognostic marker in breast cancer

MicroRNA-874 (miR-874) is downregulated in several human cancers and has been suggested to be a tumor suppressor gene. However, the molecular mechanism of miR-874 downregulation in breast cancer has not been well elucidated. Here we aimed to study the aberrant hyper-methylation of CpG sites with the utility of miR-874 downreregulation in breast cancer and evaluate the clinical function of miR-874 as a prognostic marker. The miR-874 expressions in cells and tissues of two breast cancer lines were measured by real-time PCR. The DNA methylation status of the miR-874 promoter region in 19 pairs of breast cancer and adjacent normal samples was analyzed with Sequenom EpiTYPER MassArray. To evaluate whether miR-874 is a potential prognostic marker in breast cancer, we also explored the clinical long-time follow-up records from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). We found miR-874 expression was downregulated in 47 pairs of breast cancer tissues. Moreover, univariate and multivariate analysis revealed miR-874 expression may be a prognostic biomarker of overall survival in breast cancer patients. Preconditioning with 5-Aza-CdR in two cell lines elevated miR-874 expressions. The data from Sequenom EpiTYPER MassArray showed that DNA methylation of the promoter region of miR-874 was upregulated and accompanied by decreased miR-874 expression, which was further confirmed by TCGA. After comprehensive considerations, we think miR-874, which might be served as a prognostic biomarker, is mediated by DNA methylation.

Growth hormone used to control intractable bleeding caused by radiation-induced gastritis

Intractable bleeding caused by radiation-induced gastritis is rare. We describe a 69-year-old man with intractable hemorrhagic gastritis induced by postoperative radiotherapy for the treatment of esophageal carcinoma. Although anti-secretory therapy with or without octreotide was initiated for hemostasis over three months, melena still occurred off and on, and the patient required blood transfusions to maintain stable hemoglobin. Finally growth hormone was used in the treatment of hemorrhage for two weeks, and hemostasis was successfully achieved. This is the first report that growth hormone has been used to control intractable bleeding caused by radiation-induced gastritis.

Synthesis, characterization, and oil recovery application of biosurfactant produced by indigenous pseudomonas aeruginosa WJ-1 using waste vegetable oils

A bacterial strain was isolated and cultured from the oil excavation areas in tropical zone in northern China. The biochemical characteristics and partial sequenced 16S rRNA gene of isolate, WJ-1, was identical to those of cultured representatives of the species Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This bacterium was able to produce a type of biosurfactant. Compositional analysis revealed that the extracted biosurfactant was composed of high percentage lipid (∼74%, w/w) and carbohydrate (∼20%, w/w) in addition to a minor fraction of protein (∼6%, w/w). The best production of 50.2 g/l was obtained when the cells were grown on minimal salt medium containing 6.0% (w/v) glucose and 0.75% (w/v) sodium nitrate supplemented with 0.1% (v/v) element solution at 37 °C and 180 rpm after 96 h. The optimum biosurfactant production pH value was found to be 6.0-8.0. The biosurfactant of WJ-1, with the critical micelle concentration of 0.014 g/L, could reduce surface tension to 24.5 mN/m and emulsified kerosene up to EI(24) ≈95. The results obtained from time course study indicated that the surface tension reduction and emulsification potential was increased in the same way to cell growth. However, maximum biosurfactant production occurred and established in the stationary growth phase (after 90 h). Thin layer chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectrum, and mass spectrum analysis indicate the extracted biosurfactant was affiliated with rhamnolipid. The core holder flooding experiments demonstrated that the oil recovery efficiency of strain and its biosurfactant was 23.02% residual oil.

[Study of the platelet GP specific antibodies and HLA antibodies expression in platelet transfusion refractoriness patients]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation between the platelet GP specific antibodies/HLA antibodies and platelet transfusion refractoriness (PTR).

METHODS

Sixty-five patients with PTR were selected in this study and were genotyped for HLA-A and HLA-B as well as HPA systems by standard PCR-SSP assays. The platelet GP specific antibodies and HLA antibodies in serum and platelet elution were tested with a solid phase ELISA.

RESULTS

The HLA-A/B antigens and the frequencies of HPA-1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 9, 15 antigens in PTR patients had no difference from those in healthy donors. The freguencies of HPA-3a and 3b were 0.65 and 0.35, respectively. There was statistical difference between the 65 PTR patients and the healthy donors in HPA-3 freguencies (P < 0.05). Twenty-four patients (36.9 %) only expressed HLA antibodies, and 14 (21.5%) expressed HLA and platelet GP specific antibodies. The highest expression of anti-HLA-A/B specific antibodies was -A*9(46.2 %)/-B*40(33.6%), respectively. In serum, GPIIb/IIIa was expressed (26.2%), followed by GPIa/IIa (21.5 %). In platelet elution, GPIIb/IIIa was expressed of 41.5% and GPIb/IX 41.5%. Pedigree study was carried out for 2 patients. The results showed that the platelet GP specific antibody/HLA antibody developed in PTR patients was highly related to the mismatch with the platelet antigen/HLA antigen in their parents.

CONCLUSION

The expressions of the HLA and platelet GP specific antibodies are the most important reason in PTR, it's meaningful to explore the correlation between PTR and HLA and HLA-A/B antigen in guiding platelet transfusion.

Curcumin induces down-regulation of EZH2 expression through the MAPK pathway in MDA-MB-435 human breast cancer cells

Curcumin, a natural compound isolated from turmeric, may inhibit cell proliferation in various tumor cells through a mechanism that is not fully understood. The enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) gene is overexpressed in human breast cancers with poor prognosis. In this study, we observed a dose- and time-dependent down-regulation of expression of EZH2 by curcumin that correlates with decreased proliferation in the MDA-MB-435 breast cancer cell line. The curcumin treatment resulted in an accumulation of cells in the G(1) phase of the cell cycle. Further investigation revealed that curcumin-induced down-regulation of EZH2 through stimulation of three major members of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway: c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38 kinase. These data suggest that an underlying mechanism of the MAPK pathway mediates the down-regulation of EZH2, thus contributing to the anti-proliferative effects of curcumin against breast cancer.

[Expression of anti-platelet glycoprotein specific antibodies and anti-HLA antibodies in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura]

In order to investigate the expression of the anti-platelet glycoprotein specific antibodies and anti-HLA antibodies in idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), 45 patients with ITP were selected in this study. An easy PCR-SSP assay was used to detect single-nucleotide polymorphisms or deletion in HPA and HLA systems. The anti-platelet glycoprotein specific antibodies and anti-HLA antibodies in plasma or platelet eluate were tested with a solid phase ELISA. The results indicated that the anti-platelet glycoprotein specific antibodies were detected in plasma or platelet eluate of 45 patients, among which anti-GPIIb/IIIa/and anti-GpIb/IX were most common. Both the anti-platelet glycoprotein specific antibodies and anti-HLA antibodies were found in plasma of 11 patients. Pedigree investigation in 2 patients (case 37 and case 40) was carried out, the results showed that anti-platelet glycoprotein specific antibodies and anti-HLA antibodies detected in 2 patients closely related to incompatibility with platelet antigens and HLA antigens in parents. In conclusion, the results suggested that detection of the anti-platelet glycoprotein specific antibodies and anti-HLA antibodies in plasma or platelet eluate in combination with investigation of clinical manifestation of patients is important for diagnosis of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura.

[Analysis of STR loci expression after allogeneic cord blood hematopoietic stem cell transplantation]

The purpose of this study was to analyze the STR loci expression after allergenic cord hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in patient with Ducennes muscular dystropy (DMD) patient. PCR-SSO was used to identify the HLA antigens and alleles, STR-PCR was used to detect the chimera status. Quantity analysis of donor chimeras was performed by multiplex PCR amplification of STR marker and capillary electrophoresis with fluorescence detection. The results showed that patient appear to be HLA identical to the donor cord blood at the tested level. Persistent full donor chimerism was found in breast bone marrow. The patient with stable MC (DC < 5%) had a probability of long term survival with molecular remission MC status appeared in forearm muscle, tongue, liver, spleen, stomach, right temporal lobe, diaphragmatic muscle, bronchus, left ventricle and right kidney. In conclusion, the donor gene can express in parenchymatoas organs, the donor chimerism was detected in breast bone marrow and some other organs.

[Biological appraisal of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells during ex-vivo expansion]

This study was aimed to investigate the characteristics of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells during ex-vivo expansion, MSCs were isolated from human bone marrow. At each passage, the characteristics of proliferation kinetics, osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation potential were analyzed, and cell morphology, surface markers were investigated as well. The karyotype analysis was done in different passage cells. The infection HIV, HCV, HBV and TP were detected by ELISA. Mycoplasma contamination in vitro was detected by PCR method. HLA-SBT was used to reanalyze the results of HLA antigens and alleles. STR genetic loci were detected by PCR in the MSC1, MSC2, MSC3 and MSC4. The results indicated that the proliferative ability and osteogenic potential decreased with the increase of passage number during culture expansion. The multiple differentiation potential of MSCs was maintained during their life span. Karyotype analysis showed that MSCs from 4 groups before passage 8 were normal. The expression of CD29, CD44, CD105, CD166 and CD73 were positive. The expression of CD14, CD34, CD45, CD80, CD86 were all negative. SBT was used to identify HLA-A, B, Cw, DRB1, DRPB1, DQ alleles in the MSC1, MSC2, MSC3, MSC4. The genetype of STR in the MSC1, MSC2, MSC3, MSC4 was different. MSC 3 was examined by TP-ELISA to confirm the infectious disease of TP. MSC2 was contaminated by mycoplasma at passage 5. It is concluded that culture expansion causes MSCs to gradually lose their stem cell properties. During ex-vivo expansion of MSCs, the osteogenic differentiation potential is decreased. MSCs before passage 8 can be a valuable subject for basic research and clinical application.

Overexpression of AIB1 in nasopharyngeal carcinomas correlates closely with advanced tumor stage

AIB1, a candidate oncogene in breast cancer, is commonly amplified and overexpressed in several types of human cancers. In this study, expression and amplification of AIB1 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) were studied by immunohistochemical analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization using tissue microarrays, including 80 specimens of NPC and 20 specimens of nonneoplastic nasopharyngeal mucosa. In this NPC cohort, overexpression and amplification of AIB1 was detected in 36 (51%) of 71 and 3 (7%) of 46 NPCs, respectively. Overexpression of AIB1 was observed more frequently in NPCs in late T stages (T3/T4, 24/35 [69%]) than in earlier stages (T1/T2, 12/36 [33%]; P < .05). In addition, 18 (72%) of 25 NPCs with lymph node metastasis (N1-3) showed overexpression of AIB1; the frequency was significantly higher than that in NPCs without node metastasis (N0, 18/49 [39%]; P < .05). These findings suggest that overexpression of AIB1 in NPCs may be important in the acquisition of an invasive and/or metastatic phenotype.

Identification of TPO receptors on central nervous system-a preliminary report

To identify the expression of thrombopoietin (TPO) receptors (c-mpl) on central nervous system (CNS) and to evaluate the role of TPO on neural cell proliferation and protection, immunohistochemical staining, RT-PCR, MTT, and annexin-V methods were used in this study. The results showed the expression of TPO receptor on human CNS and murine neural cells. C-mpl mRNA was identified in human cerebral hemispheres and cerebellum, and mouse neural cell line C17.2 by RT-PCR. C-mpl was also confirmed in human cerebral hemispheres by immunohistostaining with con-focal microscopy. Furthermore, TPO had a stimulating effect on the growth of in vitro neural cell C17.2 by MTT assay. The anti-apoptotic effect of TPO on C17.2 cells was also demonstrated by staining with annexin-V and PI. In conclusion, the first evidence showed the expression of TPO receptor c-mpl in central nervous system. Moreover, the effect of TPO on neural cell proliferation and anti-apoptosis was also demonstrated on in vitro neural cells.

[Pattern recognition of stereoscopic features of the leaves epidermis of medicinal Curcuma plants in China by image analysis]

OBJECTIVE

To provide new ways for classifying and identifying medicinal curcuma plants.

METHOD

Based on classical taxonomy, the microscopic features of the epidermis of Curcuma plants in China were scored quantitatively by stereology and image analysis.

RESULT

It showed that there were a lot of differences in density, size and shape of the epidermic cells among the medicinal Curcuma plants in China; that the average perimeter of the upper epidermic cells, average sectional area of the lower epidermis, stoma density and trichoma distribution of the upper and lower epidermis, etc. could be considered to be the main evidences for the microscopic identification of leaves of Curcuma. The 21 materials which belong to 11 species of Curcuma in China were systematized into 6 species, 1 species complex, 2 cultivated varieties.

CONCLUSION

It can be concluded that stereology, and image analysis are advanced and feasible in pharmacognosy and taxonomy especially in the authentication of the relative and easily confused species.

[Investigation on quality difference between Cordyceps of Sichuan and those of Xizang]

OBJECT

The quality difference among the Cordyceps specimens which grew in various micro-ecological environment and between those from Kangding of sichuan and those from Naqu of Xizang was compared and analyzed.

METHOD

The specimens from various spots in field were collected, their appearance properties were analyzed, content of adenosine was assayed, and their difference on ecological hereditary variation was discussed.

RESULT

The biggest values of quality difference among the Cordyceps specimens from various micro-ecological environment can surpass that between specimen of Sichuan and specimen of Xizang.

CONCLUSION

The effect of the micro-ecological environment on the quality of the Cordyceps might exceed that of extensive climates and region differences at times.

Effects of pH and dose on nasal absorption of scopolamine hydrobromide in human subjects

PURPOSE

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of formulation pH and dose on nasal absorption of scopolamine hydrobromide, the single most effective drug available for the prevention of nausea and vomiting induced by motion sickness.

METHODS

Human subjects received scopolamine nasally at a dose of 0.2 mg/0.05 mL or 0.4 mg/0.10 mL, blood samples were collected at different time points, and plasma scopolamine concentrations were determined by LC-MS/MS.

RESULTS

Following administration of a 0.2 mg dose, the average Cmax values were found to be 262+/-118, 419+/-161, and 488+/-331 pg/ mL for pH 4.0, 7.0, and 9.0 formulations, respectively. At the 0.4 mg dose the average Cmax values were found to be 503+/-199, 933+/-449, and 1,308+/-473 pg/mL for pH 4.0, 7.0, and 9.0 formulations, respectively. At a 0.2 mg dose, the AUC values were found to be 23,208+/-6,824, 29,145+/-9,225, and 25,721+/-5,294 pg x min/mL for formulation pH 4.0, 7.0, and 9.0, respectively. At a 0.4 mg dose, the average AUC value was found to be high for pH 9.0 formulation (70,740+/-29,381 pg x min/mL) as compared to those of pH 4.0 (59,573+/-13,700 pg x min/mL) and pH 7.0 (55,298+/-17,305 pg x min/mL) formulations. Both the Cmax and AUC values were almost doubled with doubling the dose. On the other hand, the average Tmax, values decreased linearly with a decrease in formulation pH at both doses. For example, at a 0.4 mg dose, the average Tmax values were 26.7+/-5.8, 15.0+/-10.0, and 8.8+/-2.5 minutes at formulation pH 4.0, 7.0, and 9.0, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Nasal absorption of scopolamine hydrobromide in human subjects increased substantially with increases in formulation pH and dose.

Mechanistic studies on surfactant-induced membrane permeability enhancement

PURPOSE

To gain some mechanistic understanding of surfactant-induced membrane permeabilization and identify a surfactant physical property that can be used as a predictor for intestinal membrane permeability enhancement.

METHODS

The maximum surface pressures (piCMC) of series of anionic and non-ionic surfactants as indicators of surface activity were determined using a bubble surface tensiometer, and related to in vivo intestinal membrane permeability and acute damage data of the same surfactants from a previous work. Phospholipid bilayers with constant surface pressures and monolayers with different surface pressures were used as model membranes to systematically study membrane permeability enhancement and membrane penetration of surfactants at different concentrations.

RESULTS

Surfactants that did not permeabilize or acutely damage the intestinal wall generally exhibited a piCMC < 25 dyne/cm. Permeability enhancement and acute damage increased as piCMC increased beyond 25 dyne/cm. This critical threshold value at around 25 dynes/cm was also observed with in vitro experiments using phospholipid vesicles and monolayers. Data support the hypothesis that the threshold phenomenon originates from the interfacial tension at the membrane/water interface, which controls the surface adsorption process of surfactant molecules onto the membrane.

CONCLUSIONS

For a surfactant to permeabilize and acutely damage the intestinal wall, it must exhibit a surface pressure of greater than 25 dynes/cm. This threshold value is related to an intrinsic property, surface pressure, of the phospholipid membranes. Since the surfactant surface pressure is a property of the surfactant monomer, partition of the surfactant monomer, not the micelle, into the membrane is an obligate step in membrane permeabilization. Above the surfactant critical micelle concentration, CMC, micelles may act as a depot to continuously replace aqueous surfactant monomers taken up by the membrane. For some surfactants above CMC, sufficient number of monomers can partition into the membrane to cause solubilization of membrane lipids in surfactant micelles.

[A model atlas of the crude drug Radix Ophiopogonis in tri-dimensional computer reconstraction from their serial transections]

In this paper, the tri-dimensional computer reconstruction and animated display from the serial transections of the crude drugs Radix Ophiopogonis and Radix Liriopes have been achieved. Accordingly, some tri-dimensional image techniques and information for the computer aided teaching and identification of pharmacognosy have been offered.

Study on in vivo release of levonorgestrel-containing silicon capsule

The in vivo release rate of levonorgestrel-containing silicon capsule (in vitro releasing rate: 6 micrograms/d) placed in rabbits was determined. The results showed that the average release per year was 8.32 micrograms with r being 0.96000. The release pattern of the levonorgestrel-containing silicon capsule system was proved to be zero-order release. Our study provided some experimental data for clinical use of the system for birth control.

Accessory cells of the lung. II. Ia+ pulmonary dendritic cells display cell surface antigen heterogeneity

In earlier studies, we had determined that class II (Ia) major histocompatibility complex (MHC) antigen expression in the normal rat lung was limited to dendritic cells and type II alveolar cells. In order to characterize the Ia+ pulmonary dendritic cells of the lung parenchyma, Lewis rat lungs were dissected free of their major airways, enzymatically digested, and serially subjected to density centrifugation on bovine serum albumin, overnight adherence, and immunopanning with a murine anti-rat monoclonal antibody (anti-OX-6) that reacts specifically with class II (Ia) MHC antigens. The purified Ia+ pulmonary cells displayed the morphologic and functional features of dendritic accessory cells, including extended cell processes, absence of nonspecific esterase staining, minimal phagocytosis of latex beads, rapid clustering with T lymphocytes, and co-stimulation of T-cell mitogen responses. Detailed immunophenotyping by cytofluorimetry and immunohistology showed that the purified dendritic cells were Ia (OX-6)+, CD45R (OX-1)+, CD45Rb (OX-22)-, ICAM-1+, and OX-43-. As many as 50% of the cells bound heat-aggregated IgG, while a smaller percentage expressed the CD43 sialophorin antigens (W3/13) expressed by a variety of blood-derived cells, and/or the OX-41 and RMA macrophage antigens. We conclude that Ia+ dendritic cells of lung are heterogeneous with respect to their expression of surface membrane differentiation antigens and may prove to be functionally distinct with respect to their accessory activities.

Accessory cells of the lung. I. Interferon-gamma increases Ia+ dendritic cells in the lung without augmenting their accessory activities

Dendritic cells are specifically adapted to provide accessory signals for the growth of T lymphocytes. Ia+ dendritic cells are present within the normal lung; however, little is known concerning their regulation in vivo. Interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) is a proinflammatory lymphokine that augments the expression of Ia antigens and promotes the accessory activities of a variety of cells. In order to determine whether IFN-gamma regulates pulmonary dendritic cells in vivo, Lewis rats were injected intraperitoneally with recombinant murine IFN-gamma (2 x 10(5) U/rat/day) or with buffered saline for 5 consecutive days. Following sacrifice, the lungs were excised, and the distribution and number of Ia (OX-6)+ cells was determined in situ. Dendritic cells were localized in the mucosal lining of the tracheobronchial tree, in pulmonary capillaries, as well as in the alveolar septal interstitium and subjacent to the pleural surfaces. IFN-gamma yielded a specific increase in Ia+ dendritic cells in alveolar septa and in pulmonary airways. Purified Ia+ dendritic cells from enzymatic digests of lung were excellent accessory cells for the proliferative responses of both antigen-primed and naive T lymphocytes. IFN-gamma did not, however, further augment the expression of Ia antigens or the accessory activities of pulmonary dendritic cells. These results suggest that IFN-gamma may promote pulmonary T cell-mediated inflammatory responses in vivo by increasing the number of Ia+ dendritic accessory cells in the lung.

Cytokine administration alters the distribution of activated lymphocytes to the lung

The effects of intraperitoneal injections of recombinant interleukin-1 alpha (IL-1; 250,000 U/day), interleukin-2 (IL-2; 50,000 units/day), interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma; 50,000 U/day) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF; 100,000 U/day), on the biodistribution of concanavalin A (Con A)-activated, indium-111-labeled lymphocytes were evaluated in BALB/c mice. Syngeneic spleen cells were activated for 48 h in medium with Con A (5 micrograms/ml) and maintained in culture for 72 h in IL-2 (1,000 U/ml). Groups of 12 mice were treated for 4 days with either one of the cytokines or saline. On day 4, mice received 10(7) lymphocytes (3-5 mu Ci) intravenously. Mice were sacrificed at 4 and 24 h following injection and the percent of administered dose per organ was determined. TNF and IL-1 produced a significant increase in lung uptake of radiolabeled lymphocytes at 4 and 24 h, whereas IL-2 and IFN-gamma decreased uptake at both time points. IL-1 increased uptake by liver at 4 and 24 h while IL-2 increased uptake only at 4 h. We conclude that the distribution of activated lymphocytes following adoptive transfer is altered by cytokines. This finding may have important implications for cell delivery during adoptive immunotherapy.

Anti-RMA: a murine monoclonal antibody that activates rat macrophages. I. Distribution and characterization of the RMA antigen

Activated macrophages participate in inflammation by eliminating foreign cells, promoting wound healing, and modulating the immune response. A murine monoclonal antibody, designated anti-rat macrophage activator (RMA), was raised against alveolar macrophages (AM) activated with interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) and phorbol myristate acetate (PMA). The RMA antigen is expressed by resident macrophages but not by other cells. Binding to AM by anti-RMA is not competitively inhibited by the murine monoclonal antibodies MRC OX-41, OX-42, and OX-43. Surface membrane expression of RMA antigens is upregulated by lipopolysaccharide, PMA, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha but not by IFN-gamma. Stimulation of AM with anti-RMA yields distinct ultrastructural alterations, as well as de novo protein and DNA synthesis. Immunoprecipitation of [35S]methionine metabolically labeled AM yields a 120 kD protein by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) that is not altered by chemical reduction. We conclude that the RMA antigen is macrophage specific and that binding of anti-RMA to AM promotes functional activities in a subset of these cells.

Pharmacokinetics and metabolism of metioprim in pigs and goats

The pharmacokinetics and metabolism of metioprim (MTP) have been studied after intravenous administration of a single dose of 5 mg/kg b.wt. to pigs (n = 4) and 10 mg/kg b.wt. to goats (n = 5). Kinetic parameters were calculated using a two-compartment open model. The elimination half-life was much shorter in goats (23 +/- 4 min.) than in pigs (169 +/- 17 min.). The apparent volume of distribution exceeded 1.0 1/kg b.wt. in both species indicating accumulation in tissues. Pigs excreted the major part of the dose (86 +/- 9%) in urine and only a small part (9 +/- 3%) in faeces, while the goats excreted almost equal amounts in urine (55 +/- 5%) and faeces (38 +/- 4%). Metabolism played the major role in elimination of MTP. Of the 80% of the dose excreted in urine within 24 hrs in pigs unchanged MTP made up 8%, metioprim sulfoxide 64% and O-desmethyl-MTP 8%. Metioprim sulfoxide was also the major metabolite in goats, but in this species another demethylated metabolite--metioprim sulfonic acid--was formed. Goats excreted 49 +/- 7% of the dose in urine within 24 hrs of which unchanged MTP made up less than 1%, while metioprim sulfoxide accounted for about 35% and metioprim sulfonic acid for approximately 14%. Metabolites isolated from urine were identified by NMR-spectroscopy combined with EI, FAB or 252Cf plasma desorption mass spectrometry.

Comparison of pharmacokinetic parameters for two oxytetracycline preparations in pigs

Pharmacokinetics of oxytetracycline (OTC) were studied in 10 pigs after administration of 20 mg/kg body weight of either a conventional (OTC-C) or a long-acting (OTC-LA) preparation. After intravenous administration of OTC-C the elimination half-life for OTC was 3.75 h, with approximately 75% of the dose being excreted in the urine in 1 week. Intramuscular (i.m.) injection of OTC-C resulted in plasma peak values after 4 h, while OTC-LA after i.m. administration produced the highest plasma levels within 1 h, although these were lower than with OTC-C. For both preparations the bioavailability after i.m. administration was 95-100% and about 70% of the dose was excreted in the urine during the first week. With OTC-C given i.m., plasma concentrations above 0.5 micrograms/ml were maintained for 28 h and with OTC-LA for 35 h indicating a weak retard effect of the latter. Pronounced tissue damage at the injection site was seen 1 and 2 weeks after the administration of OTC-LA, while OTC-C produced very little irritation. OTC could be found at the injection site for 2 weeks, the concentrations being higher for OTC-LA than for OTC-C.