[Efficacy tubular paraspinal approach and conventional semi-laminar approach in treating lumbar stenosis]

Objective: To analysis of the efficacy of tubular paraspinal approach and conventional semi-laminar approach in treating lumbar stenosis. Methods: Retrospective research of clinical data of 56 lumbar stenosis cases who were operated in neurosurgery department of first center of PLA general hospital from May 2015 to June 2018. Collecting the information of sex, age, operating time, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative duration in bed, as well as length of hospital stay of those patients. The 2 groups of cases, tubular paraspinal approach group (n=35)and semi-laminal approachgroup (n=21), compared by Japanese orthopedic association (JOA) score and visual analogue scale to assess the functional situation of the patients before operation, 1 week after operation, 1 month after operation, 6 months after operation, and the last follow up. Results: The operating time(83.1±7.3 vs 86.1±9.6 min), intraoperative blood loss(18.2±3.9 vs 40.5±13.3 ml), postoperative duration in bed(37.4±7.8 vs 63.7±15.8 h), as well as length of hospital stay (3.8±1.1 vs 6.5±2.0 d)were all obviously better in tubular paraspinal approach group than in traditional semi-laminar approach group(P<0.05). The postoperative 1 week, 1month, and 6 months JOA score (21.8±3.4, 23.6±2.4, 24.2±2.4 vs 19.9±3.7, 21.6±2.8, 22.4±2.1)and VAS (2.2±1.0, 2.0±1.1, 0.4±0.1 vs 3.1±1.2, 2.6±1.3, 0.5±0.1) were better in tubular paraspinal approach group than semi-laminar approach group (P<0.05). While at the last follow up, the JOA score and VAS were similar in the 2 groups (P>0.05) . Conclusions: In non-fusion techniques for treating lumbar stenosis, tubular paraspinal approach demonstrated less blood loss, shorter stay in bed as well as in hospital, and better symptom relief in early postoperative period than traditional semi-laminal approach. While at long term follow up, both approaches achieved satisfactory outcome.

miR-124-3p availability is antagonized by LncRNA-MALAT1 for Slug-induced tumor metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma

BACKGROUND

As an oncogene, long noncoding RNA metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) can promote tumor metastasis. Hyperexpression of MALAT1 has been observed in many malignant tumors, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the role and mechanism of MALAT1 in HCC remain unclear.

METHODS

Thirty human HCC and paracancerous tissue specimens were collected, and the human hepatoma cell lines Huh7 and HepG2 were cultured according to standard methods. MALAT1 and Snail family zinc finger (Slug) expression were measured by real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. Luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assay verified the direct interaction between miR-124-3p and Slug(SNAI2) or MALAT1. Wound healing and transwell assays were performed to examine invasion and migration, and a subcutaneous tumor model was established to measure tumor progression in vivo.

RESULTS

MALAT1 expression was upregulated in HCC tissues and positively correlated with Slug expression. MALAT1 and miR-124-3p bind directly and reversibly to each other. MALAT1 silencing inhibited cell migration and invasion. miR-124-3p inhibited HCC metastasis by targeting Slug.

CONCLUSIONS

MALAT1 regulates Slug through miR-124-3p, affecting HCC cell metastasis. Thus, the MALAT1/miR-124-3p/Slug axis plays an important role in HCC.

Bioinspired Flexible and Highly Responsive Dual-Mode Strain/Magnetism Composite Sensor

The mimicry of human skin to detect both oncoming and physical-contacting object is of great importance in the fields of manufacturing, artificial robots and vehicles, etc. Herein, a novel bioinspired flexible and highly responsive dual-mode strain/magnetism composite sensor, which works via both contact and contactless modes, is first fabricated by incorporating Fe₃O₄/silicone system into a carbon fiber aerogel (CFA). The distance dependence of magnetic field endorses the CFA/Fe₃O₄/silicone composite possible for spatial sensing due to the introduction of Fe₃O₄ magnetic nanoparticles. As a result, the as-prepared flexible sensor exhibits precise and real-time response not only to direct-contact compression as usual but also to contactless magnetic field in a wide frequency range from 0.1 to 10 Hz, achieving the maximum variance of 68% and 86% in relative electrical resistance, respectively. The contact and contactless sensing modes of the strain/magnetism sensor are clearly demonstrated by recording the speeds of bicycle riding and walking, respectively. Interestingly, this dual-mode composite sensor exhibits the capacity of identifying the contact and contactless state, which is the first report for flexible sensors. The current protocol is eco-friendly, facile, and thought-provoking for the fabrication of multifunctional sensors.

[Implement of multimodal navigation-based virtual reality in the needle biopsy of intracranial eloquent lesions]

Objective: To investigate the clinical value of multimodal navigation-based virtual reality (MNVR) in the needle biopsy of intracranial eloquent lesions. Methods: From January 2016 to January 2017, 20 patients with intracranial deep-seated lesions involving eloquent brain areas underwent MNVR-aided needle biopsy at Department of Neurosurgery, People's Liberation Army General Hospital. Preoperatively, MNVR was used to propose and revise the biopsy planning. Intraoperatively, navigation helped trajectory avoid the eloquent structures. Intraoperative MRI (iMRI) was performed to prove the biopsy accuracy and detect the intraoperative complications. Perioperative neurological status, iMRI findings, intraoprative complications, surgical outcome and pathological diagnosis were recorded. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was conducted to compare the preoperative and postoperative neurological scores. Results: MNVR helped revised 45%(9/20) initial biopsy trajectories, which would probably injury the nearby eloquent structures. Navigation helped biopsy trajectories spare the eloquent structures during the operation. No statistical difference was found between postoperative and preoperative neurological status, despite all the lesions were adjacent to eloquent areas. Additionally, 20 patients totally received 21 iMRI scanning. iMRI helped revise incorrect biopsy site in one case and detected intraoperative hemorrhage in another case, both of cases were treated immediately and effectively. No MNVR related adverse events and complications occurred. Conclusions: MNVR-aided needle biopsy of intracranial eloquent lesions is a safe, novel and efficient biopsy modality. This technique is helpful to reduce the incidence of surgery related neurological deficits.

Role of RbBP5 and H3K4me3 in the vicinity of Snail transcription start site during epithelial-mesenchymal transition in prostate cancer cell

EMT (epithelial-mesenchymal transition) occurs in a wide range of tumor types, and has been shown to be crucial for metastasis. Epigenetic modifications of histones contribute to chromatin structure and result in the alterations in gene expression. Tri-methylation of histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4me3) is associated with the promoters of actively transcribed genes and can serve as a transcriptional on/off switch. RbBP5 is a component of the COMPASS/ -like complex, which catalyzes H3K4me3 formation. In this study, we found that in the process of TGF-Beta1 induced EMT in the prostate cancer cell line DU145, H3K4me3 enrichment and RbBP5 binding increased in the vicinity of Snail (SNAI1) transcription start site. Knocking-down of RbBP5 notably decreased Snail expression and EMT. Recruitment of RbBP5 and formation of H3K4me3 at Snail TSS during EMT depend on binding of SMAD2/3 and CBP at Snail TSS. This study links the SMAD2/3 signal with Snail transcription via a histone modification - H3K4me3. Furthermore, our research also demonstrates that RbBP5 and even WRAD may be a promising therapeutic candidates in treating prostate cancer metastasis, and that DU145 cells maintain their incomplete mesenchymal state in an auto/paracrine manner.

[Treatment of single one-stage posterior atlantoaxial fixation in Chiari malformation]

Objective: To explore the effects of surgical technique of single one-stage posterior C(1-2) screw rod fixation of Chiari malformation (CM) associated with occipitalization and without atlantoaxial dislocation. Methods: A total of 23 patients with CM treated between January 2014 and October 2015 in Department of Neurosurgery of Chinese People's Liberation Army General Hospital were retrospective reviewed. All of them were diagnosis with CM associated with occipitalization and without atlantoaxial dislocation, including 8 males and 15 females, aging from 11 to 57 years (mean (35.5±10.52) years). Single one-stage posterior C(1-2) screw rod fixation with bone grafting fusion was performed. Operation time and intraoperative blood loss were recorded. Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) scores and Odom rating were used to evaluate the clinical effects at pre- and post-operative. Regression of the cerebellar tonsillar was measured by MRI. The results were analyzed by paired samples t test. Results: Twenty-three patients were implanted screws successfully, the vertebral artery injury and cerebrospinal fluid leakage were not found. The mean operation time was (172.7±19.9) minutes, the intraoperative blood loss was (153.9±49.3) ml. Compared to preoperative, the JOA score increased (13.7±1.6 vs. 11.5±1.4) and the tonsillar herniation decreased ((0.8±0.6)cm vs. (1.9±0.6) cm) in the last follow-up, there were statistical difference (t=13.386, P<0.01; t=17.995, P<0.01). The results of the postoperative Odom grading were as follows: 6 cases were perfect (26.1%), 13 cases were good (56.5%), 4 cases were moderate (17.4%) and no case was poor.No signs of instrument loosen or screw broken was noticed. 100% bony fusion rate was achieved. The follow-up time was 6 to 23 months (mean (10.5±3.2) months). One case developed internal fixator related discomfort, the symptom was relieved by internal fixator removal surgery performed 4 months after the operation when osseous fusion had already been achieved. No new neurologic symptoms were observed in other 22 patients. Conclusions: The results of the study substantiates the effectiveness of single one-stage posterior fixation strategy for CM, which is associated with occipitalization and without atlantoaxial dislocation. This technique could be an alternative choice for this type of CM.

A wearable strain sensor based on a carbonized nano-sponge/silicone composite for human motion detection

Melamine sponge, also known as nano-sponge, is widely used as an abrasive cleaner in our daily life. In this work, the fabrication of a wearable strain sensor for human motion detection is first demonstrated with a commercially available nano-sponge as a starting material. The key resistance sensitive material in the wearable strain sensor is obtained by the encapsulation of a carbonized nano-sponge (CNS) with silicone resin. The as-fabricated CNS/silicone sensor is highly sensitive to strain with a maximum gauge factor of 18.42. In addition, the CNS/silicone sensor exhibits a fast and reliable response to various cyclic loading within a strain range of 0-15% and a loading frequency range of 0.01-1 Hz. Finally, the CNS/silicone sensor as a wearable device for human motion detection including joint motion, eye blinking, blood pulse and breathing is demonstrated by attaching the sensor to the corresponding parts of the human body. In consideration of the simple fabrication technique, low material cost and excellent strain sensing performance, the CNS/silicone sensor is believed to have great potential in the next-generation of wearable devices for human motion detection.

[Clinical useness of multimodal techniques in microsurgical resection of cerebral arteriovenous malformation]

Objective: To explore the clinical useness of intraoperative functional neuronavigation and fluorescent indocyanine green(ICG) angiography as well as electrophysiological evaluation during microsurgical resection of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVM). Methods: A series of 42 consecutive cases with AVM underwent microsurgery by intraoperative functional neuronavigation at Department of Neurosurgery of People's Liberation Army General Hospital from January 2009 to February 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. Of the 42 patients, 29 were males and 13 were females aging from 4 to 62 years (mean age 32.6 years). Preoperative assessment included functional magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging to identify the relationship between lesions and eloquent areas. The results of images were integrated into three-dimensional datasets to achieve intraoperative microscopic-based functional neuronavigation during AVM resection. Operations involved in motor areas and corticospinal tract were performed under continuous electrophysiological monitoring. ICG angiography was performed at pre-dissection, post-clipping of the feeders, and post-resection of the nidus. FLOW 800 software presented a color map and ICG intensity-time curve to demostrate the vascular architecture. Postoperative digital subtraction angiography was re-examined routinely to evaluate the extent of resection. Clinical outcomes were evaluated with the modified Rankin Scale. Results: All patients underwent surgery under intraoperative navigation. Of the 42 patients, total resection was achieved in 36 cases (85.7%, 36/42) including 14 cases of AVM in eloquent areas. A total of 40 ICG angiographies were successfully performed among 11 patients. Average number of ICG injections per operation was 3.6 (ranging from 3 to 6). Feeders were visualized in 10 patients and drainers were visualized in 9 cases. The post-surgical follow-up period varied from 3 months to 70 months (mean 22.5 months). 83.8% of the patients returned to normal work and life during the followed-up period. Conclusion: Combining intraoperative neuronavigation and electrophysiological monitoring, as well as fluorescent ICG angiography contribute to microsurgical resection of cerebral AVM effectively in selecting suitable patients, further avoiding neurologic compromise as well.

[Copy number variants analysis in whole-genome of patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome]

Objective: To explore the abnormality of chromosomes of patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome and the probable association between Copy Number Variations (CNV) and lipoma tethered cord syndrome. Methods: By using the Agilent SurePrint G3 Human CGH 8×60K Microarray Kit, we performed genome-wide screening for CNV on 11 patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome adopted by the Neurosurgery Department of Chinese PLA General Hospital and their healthy parents from March 2015 to May 2015. We analyze CNVs got by the kit against the gene databases. Unrelated confirmed polymorphisms contained in Database of Genomic Variants (DGV) were discarded. Database of Chromosomal Imbalance and Phenotype in Humans using Ensemble Resources (DECIPHER) helps us with similarity inquiry, and UCSC Genome Browser helps in identification of non-polymorphic CNV. Biological process, cellular component and molecular function enrichment of these genes were conducted to confirm the association between the CNV and lipoma tethered cord syndrome. Results: 17 CNV were discovered by aCGH in 11 patients. Chr8: 39258894-39386158 and Chr15: 20481702-22509254 showed a high frequency of 5/11. Angelman syndrome and Prader-Wolli syndrome were found to be associated with the CNV of Chr15. Gene function enrichment analysis revealed that ADAM5P and ADAM3A contained in CNV obtained from patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome was also associated with orofacial clefts. Conclusions: CNV in Chr8 and Chr15 of patients with lipoma tethered cord syndrome had a higher frequency than that of common human. It revealed that there is probable association between these two pieces of CNV and lipoma tethered cord syndrome. To explorer related genes or CNV, focusing on certain type of NTDs may increase the research efficiency and get more accurate results.

HLA-B*57 and IFNL4-related polymorphisms are associated with protection against HIV-1 disease progression in controllers

Background

HIV-1-controllers maintain HIV-1 viremia at low levels (normally <2000 HIV-RNA copies/mL) without antiretroviral treatment. However, some HIV-1-controllers have evidence of immunologic progression with marked CD4⁺T-cell decline. We investigated host genetic factors associated with protection against CD4⁺T-cell loss in HIV-1-controllers.

Methods

We analysed the association of interferon lambda 4 (IFNL4)-related polymorphisms and HLA-B haplotypes within Long Term Non-Progressor HIV-1-controllers ((LTNP-C), defined by maintaining CD4⁺T-cells counts >500 cells/mm³ for more than 7 years after HIV-1 diagnosis) versus non-LTNP-C, who developed CD4⁺T-cells counts <500 cells/mm³ Both a Spanish study cohort (n=140) and an international validation cohort (n=914) were examined. Additionally, in a subgroup of individuals HIV-1-specific T-cell responses and soluble cytokines were analysed RESULTS: HLA-B*57 was independently associated with the LTNP-C phenotype (OR=3.056 (1.029-9.069) p=0.044 and OR=1.924 (1.252-2.957) p=0.003) while IFNL4 genotypes represented independent factors for becoming non-LTNP-C (TT/TT, ss469415590, OR=0.401 (0.171-0.942) p=0.036 or A/A, rs12980275, OR=0.637 (0.434-0.934) p=0.021) in the Spanish and validation cohort, respectively, after adjusting for sex, age at HIV-1 diagnosis, IFNL4-related polymorphisms and different HLA-B haplotypes. LTNP-C showed lower plasma IP-10 (p=0.019) and higher IFN-γ (p=0.02) levels than the HIV-1-controllers with diminished CD4⁺T-cell numbers. Moreover, LTNP-C exhibited higher quantities of IL2⁺CD57^- and IFN-γ⁺CD57^- HIV-1-specific CD8⁺T-cells (p=0.002 and 0.041, respectively) than non-LTNP-C.

Conclusions

We have defined genetic markers able to segregate stable HIV-1-controllers from those who experience CD4⁺T-cell decline. These findings allow for identification of HIV-1-controllers at risk for immunologic progression, and provide avenues for personalized therapeutic interventions and precision medicine for optimizing clinical care of these individuals.

Multifunctional Wearable Device Based on Flexible and Conductive Carbon Sponge/Polydimethylsiloxane Composite

Wearable devices that can be used to monitor personal health, track human motions, and provide thermotherapy, etc., are highly desired in personalized healthcare. In this work, a multifunctional wearable "wrist band" which works as both heater for thermotherapy and sensor for personal health and motion monitoring is fabricated from a flexible and conductive carbon sponge/polydimethylsiloxane (CS/PDMS) composite. The key functional material of the wrist band, namely, the conductive CS, is synthesized from waste paper by a freeze-drying and high-temperature pyrolysis process. When the wrist band works as a heater under 15 V, a stable temperature difference of 20 °C is achieved between the wrist band and the ambient. When the wrist band serves as a wearable strain sensor, the wrist band exhibits fast and repeatable response and excellent durability within the strain range of 0-20% and the working frequency of 0.01-10 Hz. Finally, the typical applications of the multifunctional wearable wrist band, as a heater for thermotherapy and a sensor for blood pulse, breathe, and walk monitoring, are demonstrated. Due to its low cost, high flexibility, moderate conductivity, and excellent strain sensibility, the as-prepared wearable device based on the CS/PDMS composite is promising to be applied for the provision of personal healthcare.

MicroRNA-98 regulates osteogenic differentiation of human bone mesenchymal stromal cells by targeting BMP2

To study the effects of microRNA‐98 (miR‐98) on human bone mesenchymal stromal cells (hBMSCs). The patients undergoing hip arthroplasty were selected by inclusion/exclusion criteria for this study. The extracted hBMSCs were detected of osteogenic differentiation by alizarin red S staining, and of cell phenotype by flow cytometry. Bioinformatics, dual luciferase report, western blotting, RT‐PCR and immunoblotting were used in our study. The hBMSCs were divided into miR‐98 mimics, miR‐98 negative control (NC), miR‐98 inhibitors, Mock and miR‐98 inhibitors + siBMP2 groups. Human bone mesenchymal stromal cells were extracted and purified in vitro and had specific cytological morphology, surface markers and abilities of self‐renewal and differentiation. Compared with the NC group and Mock group, the miR‐98 mimics group showed increased miR‐98 level while the miR‐98 inhibitors group decreased miR‐98 level (both P < 0.01). Dual luciferase reporter showed BMP2 was the target gene of miR‐98. The levels of mRNA and protein expression of BMP2, protein expression of RUNX2, alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin content significantly decreased in the miR‐98 mimics group while increased in the miR‐98 inhibitors group and showed no changes in the NC group and Mock group (all P < 0.05). The miR‐98 mimics group showed obviously declined stained red particles and the miR‐98 inhibitors group showed opposite result. After lowering the expression of miR‐98, osteogenic differentiation ability of hBMSCs rose, which was weakened by the transfection with siBMP2. miR‐98 may regulate osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs by targeting BMP2.

Correlation between polymorphism of endothelial nitric oxide synthase and avascular necrosis of femoral head

OBJECTIVE

We analyzed the correlation between mutation in intron 4 and exon 7 of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and avascular necrosis of femoral head (ANFH).

METHOD

A total of 260 ANFH cases without history of hip joint injuries were diagnosed and subject to staging according to Ficat standard, with 262 health subjects as control. Venous blood was collected to extract genome DNA, which was then amplified by PCR. The polymorphism of 27 bp repeat sequence in intron 4 and G894T polymorphism in exon 7 of eNOS gene was detected.

RESULTS

The b/b, b/a and a/a genotype frequency of intron 4 was 77.7%, 19.2% and 3.1% in ANFH group, respectively, and that in the control group was 58.0%, 32.8% and 9.2%, respectively. The b allele frequency in ANFH group was obviously higher than that in the control (P<0.0001). The frequency of 894 G/G wild type, G/T heterozygote and T/T homozygote in eNOS exon 7 was analyzed by PCR-RLFP: 65.4%, 26.5% and 8.1% in ANFH group, and 46.2%, 37.8% and 16% in normal control, respectively. The frequency of TT genotype in ANFH was obviously higher than that in the control group (P<0.001).

CONCLUSION

Polymorphism of eNOS was correlated with ANFH.

Sox2 is involved in paclitaxel resistance of the prostate cancer cell line PC-3 via the PI3K/Akt pathway

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer and the second leading cause of cancer‑associated mortality in males. The efficacy of prostate cancer chemotherapy is frequently impaired by drug resistance; however, the underlying mechanisms of this resistance remain elusive. Sex determining region Y-box 2 (Sox2) is of vital importance in the regulation of stem cell proliferation and carcinogenesis. In the present study, using MTT, clone formation, cell cycle and apoptosis assays, over-expression of Sox2 was demonstrated to enhance the paclitaxel (Pac) resistance of the PC-3 prostate cancer cell line, promoting cell proliferation and exhibiting an anti‑apoptotic effect. Western blot analysis revealed that the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt signaling pathway was activated in cells overexpressing Sox2, and by targeting cyclin E and survivin, Sox2 promoted G1/S phase transition and prevented apoptosis under Pac treatment. The present study provided an understanding of Pac resistance in prostate cancer and may indicate novel therapeutic methods for chemoresistant prostate cancer.

A large-scale gene discovery for the red palm weevil Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

The red palm weevil (RPW; Rhynchophorus ferrugineus) is a devastating pest of palms, prevalent in the Middle East as well as many other regions of the world. Here, we report a large-scale de novo complementary DNA (cDNA) sequencing effort that acquired ∼5 million reads and assembled them into 26 765 contigs from 12 libraries made from samples of different RPW developmental stages based on the Roche/454 GS FLX platform. We annotated these contigs based on the publically available known insect genes and the Tribolium castaneum genome assembly. We find that over 80% of coding sequences (CDS) from the RPW contigs have high-identity homologs to known proteins with complete CDS. Gene expression analysis shows that the pupa and larval stages have the highest and lowest expression levels, respectively. In addition, we also identified more than 60 000 single nucleotide polymorphisms and 1 200 simple sequence repeat markers. This study provides the first large-scale cDNA dataset for RPW, a much-needed resource for future molecular studies.

[Epithelial-mesenchymal transition in prostate cancer]

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common disease in elderly men, its incidence ranking the second among all malignancies in males in Western countries and increasing in China in the last decade. Tumor metastasis is the main cause of death of PCa patients. In the development and progression of tumor, the tumorous cells in the infiltration area interact with their microenvironment, undergo epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and consequently cause distant metastases. So to study the role of EMT in the development and progression of tumor is of great significance for the treatment of PCa. This article reviews the relevant literature of the last 3 years and gives an overview of the factors affecting EMT in prostate cancer, aiming at a therapeutic target.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the human corticosteroid-binding globulin promoter alter transcriptional activity

Corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG) is a high-affinity plasma protein that transports glucocorticoids and progesterone. Others and we have reported non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that influence CBG production or steroid-binding activity. However, no promoter polymorphisms affecting the transcription of human CBG gene (Cbg) have been reported. In the present study we investigated function implications of six promoter SNPs, including -26 C/G, -54 C/T, -144 G/C, -161 A/G, -205 C/A, and -443/-444 AG/-, five of which are located within the first 205 base pairs of 5'-flanking region and close to the highly conserved footprinted elements, TATA-box, or CCAAT-box. Luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that basal activity of the promoter carrying -54 T or -161 G was significantly enhanced. The first three polymorphisms, -26 C/G, -54 C/T, and -144 G/C located close to the putative hepatic nuclear factor (HNF) 1 binding elements, altered the transactivation effect of HNF1β. We also found a negative promoter response to dexamethasone-activated glucocorticoid receptor (GR) α, although none of the SNPs affected its transrepression function. Our results suggest that human Cbg -26 C/G, -54 C/T, -144 G/C, and -161 A/G promoter polymorphisms alter transcriptional activity, and further studies are awaited to explore their association with physiological and pathological conditions.

Hypoxia increases CX3CR1 expression via HIF-1 and NF‑κB in androgen-independent prostate cancer cells

The unique CX3C chemokine CX3CL1 and its cognate receptor CX3CR1 have been implicated in organ-specific metastasis of various types of tumors. Hypoxia, a common phenomenon in solid tumors, is associated with a malignant cancer phenotype. Previous studies have proved that hypoxia facilitates cancer cell metastasis through upregulation of specific chemokine receptors. We hypothesized that hypoxia could upregulate CX3CR1 expression and lead to an increased chemotactic response to CX3CL1 in prostate cancer cells. In the present study, we found that CX3CR1 expression was significantly increased in androgen-independent prostate cancer cells, including DU145, PC-3 and PC-3M, following exposure to hypoxia. This upregulation of CX3CR1 corresponded to a significant increase in migration and invasion of prostate cancer cells under hypoxic conditions, which was attenuated after knocking down CX3CR1 expression. In addition, we examined the possible role of HIF-1 and NF-κB in the process of hypoxia-induced CX3CR1 expression and hypoxia-mediated metastasis. Attenuation of HIF-1 and NF-κB transcriptional activity by siRNAs or pharmacological inhibitors, abrogated hypoxia-induced upregulation of CX3CR1, and also prevented the migration and invasion of DU145 cells under a hypoxic environment. In summary, our study demonstrated that HIF-1 and NF-κB are essential for hypoxia-regulated CX3CR1 expression, which is associated with increased migratory and invasive potential of prostate cancer cells. CX3CR1 signaling is a potential therapeutic target in the adjuvant treatment of prostate cancer.

[Inhibitory effect of siRNA targeting ADAM17 on the proliferation of prostate cancer PC-3 cells]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effect of siRNA targeting ADAM17 (ADAM17-siRNA) on the proliferation of prostate cancer PC-3 cells.

METHODS

After transfecting PC-3 cells with ADAM17-siRNA 1 and ADAM17-siRNA 2, we detected the expressions of ADAM17 mRNA and protein by RT- PCR and Western blotting, respectively. We measured the changes in the proliferation and DNA synthesis of PC-3 cells by MTT and bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation assay, examined the cell cycle profile by flow cytometry, and determined the expressions of the genes associated with PC-3 cell proliferation by Western blotting.

RESULTS

Both ADAM17-siRNA 1 and 2 effectively reduced the expressions of ADAM17 mRNA and protein in the PC-3 cells. Knockdown of ADAM17 with the two siRNAs significantly inhibited cell proliferation as compared with the control group (0.43 +/- 0.57 and 0.44 +/- 0.64 vs 0.80 +/- 0.51, P < 0.05) and down-regulated DNA synthesis (0.48 +/- 0.43 and 0.54 +/- 0.59 vs 0.79 +/- 0.72, P < 0.05). The cell cycle profile showed that the cell population of the G1 phase was markedly higher in both the ADAM17-siRNA groups than in the control ([61.83 +/- 2.41]% and [59.78 +/- 1.92]% vs [41.38 +/- 1.53]%, P < 0.05), but that of the S phase remarkably lower in the former two than in the latter ([23.64 +/- 2.56]% and [25.24 +/- 1.86]% vs [33.51 +/- 1.47]%, P < 0.05), with a concomitant decrease in the expression of the cell cycle protein cyclin D1 and increase in the cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p21.

CONCLUSION

ADAM17-siRNA can effectively inhibit the proliferation of PC-3 cells by up-regulating cyclin D1 and down-regulating p21 protein, and ADAM17 has a potential value in the gene therapy of prostate cancer.

ADAM17 targets MMP-2 and MMP-9 via EGFR-MEK-ERK pathway activation to promote prostate cancer cell invasion

ADAM17, also known as tumor necrosis factor-α converting enzyme (TACE), is involved in proteolytic ectodomain shedding of cell surface molecules and cytokines. Although aberrant expression of ADAM17 has been shown in various malignancies, the function of ADAM17 in prostate cancer has not been clarified. In the present study, we sought to elucidate whether ADAM17 contributes to prostate cancer cell invasion, as well as the mechanism involved in the process. The expression pattern of ADAM17 was investigated in human prostate cancer cells. The results showed that ADAM17 expression levels are correlated with the invasive ability of androgen-independent prostate cancer cell lines. Further, ADAM17 was overexpressed in cells showing high invasion characteristics, activation of the EGFR-MEK-ERK pathway, up-regulation of MMP-2, MMP-9, and an increased TGF-α release into the supernatant. However, AG1478, PD98059 and antibody against TGF-α deactivating the EGFR-MEK-ERK signaling pathway, abolished up-regulation of MMP-2, MMP-9 and prevented cell invasion. In addition, cells with knockdown of ADAM17 by siRNA exhibited low invasive ability, deactivated EGFR-MEK-ERK signaling pathway, reduced TGF-α released and down-regulation of MMP-2, MMP-9. However, these effects could be reversed by simultaneous addition of TGF-α. These data demonstrated that ADAM17 contributes to androgen-independent prostate cancer cell invasion by shedding of EGFR ligand TGF-α, which subsequently activates the EGFR-MEK-ERK signaling pathway, leading finally to overexpression of MMP-2 and MMP-9. This study suggests that the ADAM17 expression level may be a new predictive biomarker of invasion and metastasis of prostate cancer, and ADAM17 could provide a target for treating metastatic PCa.

[Study on ultraviolet upconversion emissions of Gd3+ induced by Tm3+ under 980 nm excitation]

Series of Tm3+/Yb3+ co-doped GdF3 powders were synthesized through an easy and mild hydrothermal method. The phase and purity of powders were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) (Rigaku RU-200b). The morphologies of the samples were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE SEM) (Hitachi S-4800). The ultraviolet (UV) up-conversion (UC)emission spectra were recorded by a fluorescence spectrophotometer (Hitachi F-4500) with a 980 nm semiconductor continuous wave laser diode as the excitation source. And the luminescent dynamics was measured by excitation with 980 nm using an optical parameter oscillator (OPO) laser pumped by a pulsed Nd : YAG laser with a pulse duration of 10 ns, repetition frequency of 10 Hz, and the signal was recorded by using a monochromator and an oscillograph. Under 980 nm excitation, Gd3+, acting as a kind of host ion in the studied system, and its UV UC emissions were observed and studied. The luminescent dynamics of the characteristic emission of Gd3+ (311.6 nm, 6P7/2 --> 8S7/2) was explored and studied. The luminescent dynamics analysis results indicated that, on UV UC emissions of Gd3+, Yb3+ ions served as primary sensitizer ions successively transferring energy to Tm3+ to populate the 3P2 level. Then, Tm3+ ions served as secondary sensitizer ions transferring energy to populate the multiple 6 I(J) states of Gd3+ 3P2 --> 3H6 (Tm3+): 8S7/2 --> 6 I(J) (Gd3+). Further, 6D(J) levels were populated through other energy transfer processes between Gd3+ and Yb3+ or Tm3+. Finally, UV UC emissions from the excited 6D9/2, 6 I(J), 6P5/2, and 6P7/2 states to the ground state 8S7/2 were observed. Meanwhile, Tm3+ acted as activator in its own UC emissions, and the article did not put emphasis on those except the 3P2 and 1 I6 levels to the ground state 3 H6 transitions. Especially, the dependences of UV UC emissions of Gd3+ on the Yb3+ concentrations, the Tm3+ concentrations, the annealing temperatures, and the excitation power densities of the 980 nm semiconductor continuous wave laser diode were studied, too.

[Detection of ABO genotype genetic polymorphism by multiplex-PCR based sequencing and application in forensic medicine]

Multiplex PCR-direct sequencing method was established to detect 9 different SNPs in exon 6 and exon 7 of ABO genes and could identify at least 28 different ABO genotypes. Population study was carried out in a sample of 80 unrelated Chinese Tibetan minority individual dwelled in Qinghai Province. The method was also applied to forensic cases. A variety of degeneration forensic samples, including blood stain, hair root, swab, bone and mixed stain were successfully identified by this efficient method and in conformance with serological typing. There were no significant deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in ABO genotypes of Tibetan population. The heterozygosity, polymorphic information content, discrimination power, paternity of exclusion, and probability of genetic identity were 0.675, 0.672, 0.874, 0.391, and 0.126 respectively. The gene frequency of ABO was O>B>A. The multiplex PCR-directed sequencing method can accurately and reliably detect ABO genotypes in many kinds of samples, and it improves personal identification efficiency. The ABO genotype is high variance in Qinghai Tibetan minority group, and it can be applied in forensic medicine and population genetic study.

Genetic analysis of 15 STR loci in Chinese Han population from West China

Allele frequencies for 15 short tandem repeat (STR) loci (D8S1179, D21S11, D7S820, CSF1PO, D3S1358, TH01, D13S317, D16S539, D2S1338, D19S433, vWA, TPOX, D18S51, D5S818, and FGA) were obtained from 7,636 unrelated individuals of Chinese Han population living in Qinghai and Chongqing, China. Totally 206 alleles were observed, with the corresponding allele frequencies ranging from 0.0001–0.4982. Chi-square test showed that all of the STR loci agreed with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. We also compared our data with previously published population data of other ethnics or areas. The results are valuable for human identification and paternity testing in Chinese Han population.

Preliminary DNA identification for the tsunami victims in Thailand

The 2004 Southeast Asia Tsunami killed nearly 5,400 people in Southern Thailand, including foreign tourists and local residents. To recover DNA evidence as much as possible from the seriously decomposed bodies, we explored procedures of sample preparation from both bone and tooth samples as well as both mitochondrial and nuclear markers. Despite having failed to recover enough DNA for nuclear marker typing, we succeeded in obtaining fully informative results for mitochondrial markers (HV1 and HV2) from 258 tooth samples with a success rate of 51% (258/507). Using an organic DNA extraction method coupled with an ultrafiltration step, we obtained 16 STR (including 13 CODIS loci, one sex discrimination locus, and two Identifiler loci) profiles for 834 samples with a success rate of 79% (834/1,062). In addition, by comparing the allelic frequencies between the typed samples as a group and other index populations, we conclude that the Thai tsunami victims are a combined group of several populations. Our results provide valuable evidence and protocols for the future forensic practice.

Expression and location of Smad2, 4 mRNAs during and after liver fibrogenesis of rats

AIM: To investigate the location alteration of Smad2 and Smad4 mRNAs in the liver during and after fibrogenesis in rats.

METHODS: Eighty male Wistar rats weighing approximately 200 g each were used. The rat models of experimental hepatic fibrosis were established by injection with carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄), normal rats and rats were injected with olive oil and served as control groups. In situ hybridization(ISH) was used to detect the Smad2 and Smad4 mRNA in liver.

RESULTS: In situ hybridization showed Smad2 and Smad4 mRNA expressions in the cytoplasm of hepatic stellate cells (HSC), fibroblasts and myofibroblasts around the central vein and hepatic sinus during and after fibrogenesis. Expression of Smad2, 4 mRNA was higher than that in normal and control rats.

CONCLUSION: In the process of and after hepatic fibrosis formation, HSC, fibroblasts and myofibroblasts are the major cells that express Smad2 and Smad4. The more serious the hepatic fibrosis is in the injured liver, the higher the level of Smad2 and Smad4 gene expression is during and after fibrogenesis respectively.

Regulatory and accessory HIV-1 proteins: potential targets for HIV-1 vaccines?

The HIV-1 regulatory proteins Tat and Rev and the accessory proteins Vpr, Vpu and Vif are essential for efficient viral replication, and their cytoplasmic production suggests that they should be processed for recognition by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. However, only limited data is available, evaluating the role of immune responses directed against these proteins in natural HIV-1 infection. Recent advances in the methods used for the characterization of HIV-1-specific cellular immune responses, including quantification of antigen-specific IFN-gamma production by ELISpot assay and flow-cytometry-based intracellular cytokine quantification, have allowed for a much more comprehensive assessment of virus-specific immune responses. Emerging data show that the regulatory and accessory proteins serve as important targets for HIV-1-specific T cell responses, and multiple CTL epitopes have been identified in functionally important regions of these proteins. Moreover, the use of autologous peptides have allowed for the detection of significantly stronger HIV-1-specific T cell responses in the more variable regulatory and accessory HIV-1 proteins Tat and Vpr. These data indicate that despite the small size of these proteins, regulatory and accessory proteins are targeted by cellular immune responses in natural HIV-1 infection and contribute importantly to the total HIV-1-specific CD8+ T cell response. A multi-component vaccine, with the inclusion of these proteins plus structural proteins remains the most promising choice for an effective AIDS vaccine.

Comprehensive epitope analysis of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1)-specific T-cell responses directed against the entire expressed HIV-1 genome demonstrate broadly directed responses, but no correlation to viral load

Cellular immune responses play a critical role in the control of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1); however, the breadth of these responses at the single-epitope level has not been comprehensively assessed. We therefore screened peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 57 individuals at different stages of HIV-1 infection for virus-specific T-cell responses using a matrix of 504 overlapping peptides spanning all expressed HIV-1 proteins in a gamma interferon-enzyme-linked immunospot (Elispot) assay. HIV-1-specific T-cell responses were detectable in all study subjects, with a median of 14 individual epitopic regions targeted per person (range, 2 to 42), and all 14 HIV-1 protein subunits were recognized. HIV-1 p24-Gag and Nef contained the highest epitope density and were also the most frequently recognized HIV-1 proteins. The total magnitude of the HIV-1-specific response ranged from 280 to 25,860 spot-forming cells (SFC)/10(6) PBMC (median, 4,245) among all study participants. However, the number of epitopic regions targeted, the protein subunits recognized, and the total magnitude of HIV-1-specific responses varied significantly among the tested individuals, with the strongest and broadest responses detectable in individuals with untreated chronic HIV-1 infection. Neither the breadth nor the magnitude of the total HIV-1-specific CD8+-T-cell responses correlated with plasma viral load. We conclude that a peptide matrix-based Elispot assay allows for rapid, sensitive, specific, and efficient assessment of cellular immune responses directed against the entire expressed HIV-1 genome. These data also suggest that the impact of T-cell responses on control of viral replication cannot be explained by the mere quantification of the magnitude and breadth of the CD8+-T-cell response, even if a comprehensive pan-genome screening approach is applied.

Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) responses directed against regulatory and accessory proteins in HIV-1 infection

The HIV-1 regulatory proteins Tat and Rev and the accessory proteins Vpr, Vpu, and Vif are essential for viral replication, and their cytoplasmic production suggests that they should be processed for recognition by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. However, only limited data is available evaluating to which extent these proteins are targeted in natural infection and optimal cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) epitopes within these proteins have not been defined. In this study, CTL responses against HIV-1 Tat, Rev, Vpr, Vpu, and Vif were analyzed in 70 HIV-1 infected individuals and 10 HIV-1 negative controls using overlapping peptides spanning the entire proteins. Peptide-specific interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) production was measured by Elispot assay and flow-based intracellular cytokine quantification. HLA class I restriction and cytotoxic activity were confirmed after isolation of peptide-specific CD8+ T-cell lines. All regulatory and accessory proteins served as targets for HIV-1- specific CTL and multiple CTL epitopes were identified in functionally important regions of these proteins. In certain individuals HIV-1-specific CD8+ T-cell responses to these accessory and regulatory proteins contributed up to a third to the magnitude of the total HIV-1-specific CTL response. These data indicate that despite the small size of these proteins regulatory and accessory proteins are targeted by CTL in natural HIV-1 infection, and contribute importantly to the total HIV-1-specific CD8+ T-cell responses. These findings are relevant for the evaluation of the specificity and breadth of immune responses during acute and chronic#10; infection, and will be useful for the design and testing of candidate human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) vaccines.

Vpr is preferentially targeted by CTL during HIV-1 infection

The HIV-1 accessory proteins Vpr, Vpu, and Vif are essential for viral replication, and their cytoplasmic production suggests that they should be processed for recognition by CTLs. However, the extent to which these proteins are targeted in natural infection, as well as precise CTL epitopes within them, remains to be defined. In this study, CTL responses against HIV-1 Vpr, Vpu, and Vif were analyzed in 60 HIV-1-infected individuals and 10 HIV-1-negative controls using overlapping peptides spanning the entire proteins. Peptide-specific IFN-gamma production was measured by ELISPOT assay and flow-based intracellular cytokine quantification. HLA class I restriction and cytotoxic activity were confirmed after isolation of peptide-specific CD8(+) T cell lines. CD8(+) T cell responses against Vpr, Vpu, and Vif were found in 45%, 2%, and 33% of HIV-1-infected individuals, respectively. Multiple CTL epitopes were identified in functionally important regions of HIV-1 Vpr and Vif. Moreover, in infected individuals in whom the breadth of HIV-1-specific responses was assessed comprehensively, Vpr and p17 were the most preferentially targeted proteins per unit length by CD8(+) T cells. These data indicate that despite the small size of these proteins Vif and Vpr are frequently targeted by CTL in natural HIV-1 infection and contribute importantly to the total HIV-1-specific CD8(+) T cell responses. These findings will be important in evaluating the specificity and breadth of immune responses during acute and chronic infection, and in the design and testing of candidate HIV vaccines.