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Hosoya S, Yokomizo R, Kishigami H, Fujiki Y, Kaneko E, Amita M, Saito T, Kishi H, Sago H, Okamoto A, Umezawa A. Novel therapeutic strategies for injured endometrium: intrauterine transplantation of menstrual blood‑derived cells from infertile patients. Stem Cell Res Ther 2023; 14:297. [PMID: 37840125 PMCID: PMC10577920 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-023-03524-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Menstrual blood-derived cells show regenerative potential as a mesenchymal stem cell and may therefore be a novel stem cell source of treatment for refractory infertility with injured endometrium. However, there have been few pre-clinical studies using cells from infertile patients, which need to be addressed before establishing an autologous transplantation. Herein, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic capacity of menstrual blood-derived cells from infertile patients on endometrial infertility. METHODS We collected menstrual blood-derived cells from volunteers and infertile patients and confirmed their mesenchymal stem cell phenotype by flow cytometry and induction of tri-lineage differentiation. We compared the proliferative and paracrine capacities of these cells. Furthermore, we also investigated the regenerative potential and safety concerns of the intrauterine transplantation of infertile patient-derived cells using a mouse model with mechanically injured endometrium. RESULTS Menstrual blood-derived cells from both infertile patients and volunteers showed phenotypic characteristics of mesenchymal stem cells. In vitro proliferative and paracrine capacities for wound healing and angiogenesis were equal for both samples. Furthermore, the transplantation of infertile patient-derived cells into uterine horns of the mouse model ameliorated endometrial thickness, prevented fibrosis, and improved fertility outcomes without any apparent complications. CONCLUSIONS In our pre-clinical study, intrauterine transplantation of menstrual blood-derived cells may be a novel and attractive stem cell source for the curative and prophylactic therapy for injured endometrium. Further studies will be warranted for future clinical application.
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Takezawa Y, Iwai M, Fujiki Y, Yokomizo R, Kishigami H, Miyado M, Kawano N, Yamada M, Shindo M, Suzuki M, Sato B, Katano D, Kamijo S, Hamatani T, Tanaka M, Umezawa A, Kang W, Miyado K. Embryonic β-Catenin Is Required for Priming of the Uterus to Implantation. J Transl Med 2023; 103:100026. [PMID: 36925206 DOI: 10.1016/j.labinv.2022.100026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Repeated implantation failure is a major cause of infertility among healthy women. Uterine β-catenin (CTNNB1) plays a critical role in implantation. However, the role of embryonic CTNNB1 during implantation remains unclear. We addressed this topic by analyzing mice carrying Ctnnb1-deficient (Ctnnb1Δ/Δ) embryos. Ctnnb1Δ/Δ embryos were produced by intercrossing mice bearing Ctnnb1-deficient eggs and sperms. We found that Ctnnb1Δ/Δ embryos developed to the blastocyst stage; thereafter, they were resorbed, leaving empty decidual capsules. Moreover, leukemia inhibitory factor, a uterine factor essential for implantation, was undetectable in Ctnnb1Δ/Δ blastocysts. Furthermore, CDX2, a transcription factor that determines the fate of trophectoderm cells, was not observed in Ctnnb1Δ/Δ blastocysts. Intrauterine injection with uterine fluids (from control mice) and recombinant mouse leukemia inhibitory factor proteins rescued the uterine response to Ctnnb1Δ/Δ blastocysts. These results suggest that embryonic CTNNB1 is required for the secretion of blastocyst-derived factor(s) that open the implantation window, indicating that the uterine response to implantation can be induced using supplemental materials. Therefore, our results may contribute to the discovery of a similar mechanism in humans, leading to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of repeated implantation failure.
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Yokomizo R, Fujiki Y, Kishigami H, Kishi H, Kiyono T, Nakayama S, Sago H, Okamoto A, Umezawa A. Endometrial regeneration with endometrial epithelium: homologous orchestration with endometrial stroma as a feeder. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:130. [PMID: 33579355 PMCID: PMC7881492 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02188-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thin endometrium adversely affects reproductive success rates with fertility treatment. Autologous transplantation of exogenously prepared endometrium can be a promising therapeutic option for thin endometrium; however, endometrial epithelial cells have limited expansion potential, which needs to be overcome in order to make regenerative medicine a therapeutic strategy for refractory thin endometrium. Here, we aimed to perform long-term culture of endometrial epithelial cells in vitro. METHODS We prepared primary human endometrial epithelial cells and endometrial stromal cells and investigated whether endometrial stromal cells and human embryonic stem cell-derived feeder cells could support proliferation of endometrial epithelial cells. We also investigated whether three-dimensional culture can be achieved using thawed endometrial epithelial cells and endometrial stromal cells. RESULTS Co-cultivation with the feeder cells dramatically increased the proliferation rate of the endometrial epithelial cells. We serially passaged the endometrial epithelial cells on mouse embryonic fibroblasts up to passage 6 for 4 months. Among the human-derived feeder cells, endometrial stromal cells exhibited the best feeder activity for proliferation of the endometrial epithelial cells. We continued to propagate the endometrial epithelial cells on endometrial stromal cells up to passage 5 for 81 days. Furthermore, endometrial epithelium and stroma, after the freeze-thaw procedure and sequential culture, were able to establish an endometrial three-dimensional model. CONCLUSIONS We herein established a model of in vitro cultured endometrium as a potential therapeutic option for refractory thin endometrium. The three-dimensional culture model with endometrial epithelial and stromal cell orchestration via cytokines, membrane-bound molecules, extracellular matrices, and gap junction will provide a new framework for exploring the mechanisms underlying the phenomenon of implantation. Additionally, modified embryo culture, so-called "in vitro implantation", will be possible therapeutic approaches in fertility treatment.
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Ishida T, Yoshida S, Kimura Y, Fujiki Y, Kotani T, Takeuchi T, Makino S, Arawaka S. Efficacy of discontinuing risedronate for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus: a prospective study. Lupus 2018; 27:1636-1643. [PMID: 29954283 DOI: 10.1177/0961203318784649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Objective The objective of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of discontinuation of risedronate for patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treated with glucocorticoid (GC). Methods The participants were patients with SLE treated with prednisolone (PSL) ≥ 2 mg/day and risedronate for at least three years. Lumbar spine and total hip bone mineral density (BMD) measurements were taken at baseline and 24 and 48 weeks after discontinuation of risedronate, and bone turnover markers were evaluated at baseline, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks. Results A total of 36 patients were enrolled, 25 of whom discontinued risedronate. The mean age was 46.8 ± 11.2 years, and 23 were female. The mean duration of GC treatment was 14.8 ± 11.4 years, the mean dose of PSL was 7.8 ± 3.9 mg/day, and the mean duration of risedronate was 5.8 ± 2.4 years. Seventeen patients showed decreased lumbar spine BMD at 48 weeks after discontinuation of risedronate, with a mean lumbar spine lumbar decrease of 1.42% ± 3.20% ( p = 0.034); 17 patients (71%) showed a decreased total hip BMD at 48 weeks after discontinuation of risedronate, with a mean total hip BMD decrease of 0.99% ± 2.10% ( p = 0.021). Serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP-5b) ≥ 309 mU/dl at baseline was a risk factor for decreased total hip BMD at 48 weeks compared with serum TRACP-5b < 309 mU/dl (56% vs 0%, p = 0.0098). One patient developed a clinical fracture of the lumbar spine at 20 weeks. Conclusions Discontinuation of risedronate treatment in patients with SLE who had received GC therapy led to decreases in lumbar spine and total hip BMD, particularly in patients with high baseline serum TRACP-5b levels.
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Tomiguchi M, Yamamoto Y, Yamamoto-Ibusuki M, Goto-Yamaguchi L, Fujiki Y, Sueta A, Takeshita T, Iwase H. Abstract P6-09-46: A comprehensive analysis of GNAS DNA copy number, levels of mRNA and protein expression in primary breast cancer. Cancer Res 2017. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.sabcs16-p6-09-46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Result of recent advances in genetics, guanine nucleotide binding protein, alpha stimulating (GNAS), transducer of signals from G-protein coupled receptors, has been noted that this factor is related with the onset and progression of tumor in various cancers. We aimed to analyze gene amplification, mRNA and protein expression of GNAS and their potential association with clinicopathological factors and prognosis in primary breast cancer.
Methods: The cohort of this study included 432 primary invasive breast cancer patients treated with standard care at Kumamoto University Hospital between June 2000 and January 2011. We performed a comprehensive analysis of GNAS at the levels of gene copy number, mRNA and GNAS protein expression analyzed by qPCR, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC), respectively. In the IHC assessment of GNAS protein expression, an H-score<150 was observed in 191 patients (44.2%), who were defined as having a low protein expression level, and an H-score≥150 was observed in 241 patients (55.8%) who were defined as having a high protein expression level.
Results: The median age at diagnosis was 60 (range 27-93). Three hundred fifteen (72.9%) of these were postmenopausal women. One hundred forty two patients (32.9%) had axillary lymph node metastasis. The median Ki67 labeling index was 23.6 (range 0.5-97.0). The subtypes were 321 ER+/HER2-, 24 ER+/HER2+, 34 ER-/HER2+ and 53 ER-/HER2-. Three hundred twenty one patients (75.9%) were treated with endocrine therapy and 146 patients (34.6%) chemotherapy. Most notably, a low levels of GNAS protein expression was observed in 191(44.2%) patients, and was positivity associated with Ki67 (P=0.028). Furthermore, univariate and multivariate analysis revealed that low GNAS protein expression was significantly related with poor relapse-free survival rate (Log-rank test; P=0.0013, OR:0.40, 05%CI:0.22-0.70) and breast cancer specific survival rate (Log-rank-test; P=0.041, OR:0.43, 95%CI:0.19-0.97). GNAS amplification and mRNA expression were not correlated with prognoses.
Conclusion: Contrary to expectations, GNAS expression was positively related with favorable tumor characteristics. Expression levels of GNAS protein may be an independent prognostic factor for primary breast cancer.
Citation Format: Tomiguchi M, Yamamoto Y, Yamamoto-Ibusuki M, Goto-Yamaguchi L, Fujiki Y, Sueta A, Takeshita T, Iwase H. A comprehensive analysis of GNAS DNA copy number, levels of mRNA and protein expression in primary breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2016 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2016 Dec 6-10; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P6-09-46.
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Tomiguchi M, Yamamoto Y, Yamamoto-Ibusuki M, Yamaguchi R, Fujiki Y, Fujiwara S, Sueta A, Takeshita T, Inao T, Iwase H. Abstract P4-09-01: FGFR1 protein expression is associated with prognosis in primary breast cancer: A comprehensive analysis of gene copy number, mRNA and protein expression. Cancer Res 2016. [DOI: 10.1158/1538-7445.sabcs15-p4-09-01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background: The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) showed that copy number gain/amplification of FGFR1 was around 10% in primary breast cancer. FGFR1 gene amplification in breast cancer has been reported in some studies, more likely seen in ER-positive subtype. Several preclinical and clinical studies demonstrated that FGFR1 was one of novel targets of therapy for metastatic breast cancer. Previous studies suggested that aberrant FGFR1 expression was associated with poor prognosis, while there was no report that compared copy number aberration, mRNA and protein expression. The aim of this study is to analyze FGFR1 gene copy number, expression levels of FGFR1 mRNA and FGFR1 protein in ER-positive/HER2-negative primary breast cancer, and to examine the relationship between FGFR1 status and clinicopathological parameters including prognosis.
Methods: The cohort of this study included 307 ER-positive/HER2-negative primary invasive breast cancer patients treated with standard care at Kumamoto University Hospital between June 2000 and January 2011. We performed a comprehensive analysis of FGFR1 at the levels of gene copy number, mRNA and FGFR1 protein expression analyzed by qPCR, qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively.
Results: FGFR1 gain/amplification was identified in 43 (14.0%) out of 307 patients. FGFR1 gain/amplification had significantly associated with higher nuclear grade (p=0.010). No correlations between FGFR1 mRNA expression levels and any clinicopathological factors were found. Expression levels of FGFR1 protein was positively associated with invasive tumor size (p=0.039). Modest positive correlations between these three (FGFR1 gene gain/amplification, expression levels of FGFR1 mRNA and FGFR1 protein) were found. The univariate analysis revealed that high FGFR1 protein expression was significantly related to poor prognosis (p=0.0019, HR: 2.63, 95%CI: 1.17-5.98) in terms of relapse-free survival (RFS) but not breast cancer-specific survival. The univariate analysis did not show that any factors except FGFR1 protein expression were significantly associated with RFS in this cohort.
Conclusion: Expression levels of FGFR1 protein may be an independent prognostic factor in terms of RFS for ER-positive/HER2-negative breast cancer patients receiving standard care.
Citation Format: Tomiguchi M, Yamamoto Y, Yamamoto-Ibusuki M, Yamaguchi R, Fujiki Y, Fujiwara S, Sueta A, Takeshita T, Inao T, Iwase H. FGFR1 protein expression is associated with prognosis in primary breast cancer: A comprehensive analysis of gene copy number, mRNA and protein expression. [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Thirty-Eighth Annual CTRC-AACR San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium: 2015 Dec 8-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2016;76(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P4-09-01.
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Ishida T, Shoda T, Takeuchi T, Fujiki Y, Hata K, Yoshida S, Kotani T, Makino S, Hanafusa T. FRI0490 Clinical Characteristics of Combined Pulmonary Fibrosis and Emphysema in Patients with Connective Tissue Disease. Ann Rheum Dis 2015. [DOI: 10.1136/annrheumdis-2015-eular.3236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Saeki K, Fujiki Y. 226 IN VITRO PRODUCTION OF BOVINE EMBRYOS USING CHEMICAL PACKETS THAT REGULATE CO2 AND O2. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015. [DOI: 10.1071/rdv27n1ab226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine embryos are now routinely produced with oocytes collected from slaughterhouse ovaries or by transvaginal ovum pickup. The oocytes are matured, fertilized, and cultured in a water-jacketed CO2/O2 incubator. Gas phase in incubators is usually maintained at 5% CO2 in air for in vitro maturation (IVM) and IVF of oocytes and at 5% CO2, 5% O2, and 90% N2 for in vitro culture (IVC) of embryos. Here we investigated whether two chemical packets that regulate CO2 and O2 for culturing bacteria (Mitsubishi Gas Chemical, Tokyo, Japan) could be used to control the gas phase in vitro production (IVP) of cattle embryos. One packet (Anaero Pack-CO2) was maintained at a CO2 level of ~5% in a 2.5-L container and the other (Anaero Pack-MicroAnaero) was maintained at a CO2 level of 5–8% and an O2 level of 6 to 12%. Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC, n = 970) were collected from slaughterhouse ovaries, matured in HEPES-buffered TCM-199 (catalog number 12340–030, Invitrogen) supplemented with 10% FCS, 0.02 Armour unit mL–1 FSH and 1 µg mL–1 E2 for 22 h, and fertilized in medium IVF100 [Research Institute for the Functional Peptides Co. Ltd. (IFP), Yamagata, Japan] with frozen-thawed sperm (4 × 106 cells mL–1) for 6 h. Sperm and cumulus cells were removed from the oocytes. The denuded oocytes were cultured in IVD101 (IFP, 20 to 30 embryos/50 μL) for 8 days (Day 0 = IVF). Culture was carried out at 39°C with maximum humidity. Five different combinations of gas conditions were used for incubation (Table 1). Experiments were repeated 3 times. Cleavage and blastocyst rates were assessed on Day 8. Data were analysed by ANOVA followed by Fisher's PLSD test. In the five conditions, rates of matured oocytes (oocytes at MII, n = 210) were 70 to 73% and rates of normal fertilized oocytes (oocytes with 2 pronuclei, n = 310) were 67 to 75%. Cleavage rates of embryos after 8 days of culture (n = 450) were 68 to 75%, and rates of blastocysts from cleaved embryos were 25 to 40%. None of the above measures were significantly different among the 5 conditions (P > 0.05). These results indicate that gas phase control is not needed for IVM and IVF of bovine oocytes for their subsequent development. Anaero Pack-MicroAnaero (5–8% CO2, 6–12% O2) can be used for IVC of bovine embryos. The CO2-generating and deoxidizing packets can be successfully used to control the gas phase during bovine embryo production.
Table 1.Five different combinations of gas conditions used for incubation
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Fujiki Y, Kotani T, Takeuchi T, Makino S. Systemic myositis due to Campylobacter infection. Scand J Rheumatol 2014; 43:78-80. [PMID: 24446586 DOI: 10.3109/03009742.2013.847973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Nakajima H, Fujiki Y, Ito T, Kitaoka H, Takahashi T. Anti-aquaporin-4 antibody-positive neuromyelitis optica presenting with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion as an initial manifestation. Case Rep Neurol 2011; 3:263-7. [PMID: 22125526 PMCID: PMC3224522 DOI: 10.1159/000334129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The distribution of neuromyelitis optica (NMO)-characteristic brain lesions corresponds to sites of high aquaporin-4 (AQP4) expression, and the brainstem and hypothalamus lesions that express high levels of AQP4 protein are relatively characteristic of NMO. The syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) is one of the important causes of hyponatremia and results from an abnormal production or sustained secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). SIADH has been associated with many clinical states or syndromes, and the hypothalamic-neurohypophyseal system regulates the feedback control system for ADH secretion. We report the case of a 63-year-old man with NMO, whose initial manifestation was hyponatremia caused by SIADH. Retrospective analysis revealed that the serum anti-AQP4 antibody was positive, and an MRI scan showed a unilateral lesion in the hypothalamus. SIADH recovered completely with regression of the hypothalamic lesion. As such, NMO should even be considered in patients who develop SIADH and have no optic nerve or spinal cord lesions but have MRI-documented hypothalamic lesions.
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Manohar CU, McCrady SK, Fujiki Y, Pavlidis IT, Levine JA. Evaluation of the Accuracy of a Triaxial Accelerometer Embedded into a Cell Phone Platform for Measuring Physical Activity. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011; 1. [PMID: 23730539 DOI: 10.4172/2165-7904.1000106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical activity is important in health and weight management. Several cell phone platforms integrate an accelerometer onto the motherboard. Here we tested the validity of the cell phone accelerometer to assess physical activity in a controlled laboratory setting. METHODS 31 subjects wore the cell phone on their waist along with the validated Physical Activity Monitoring System (PAMS) with different body postures and during graded walking. Energy expenditure was measured using indirect calorimetry. 11 subjects also wore the iPhone at different locations such as arm, hand, pant pocket, etc. RESULTS The cell phone accelerometer was accurate and precise compared to the PAMS, with an intra-class correlation coefficient (r2> 0.98). The cell phone accelerometer showed excellent sequential increases with increased in walking velocity and energy expenditure (r2>0.9). CONCLUSION An accelerometer embedded into a cell phone was accurate and reliable in measuring and quantifying physical activity in the laboratory setting. Data from free-living users shows promise for deployment of a comprehensive integrated physical activity promoting and weight loss platform using such mobile technologies.
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Honsho M, Hashiguchi Y, Ghaedi K, Fujiki Y. Interaction defect of the medium isoform of PTS1-receptor Pex5p with PTS2-receptor Pex7p abrogates the PTS2 protein import into peroxisomes in mammals. J Biochem 2010; 149:203-10. [DOI: 10.1093/jb/mvq130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Kobayashi K, Morita S, Shimonagayoshi M, Kobayashi M, Fujiki Y, Uchida Y, Yamaguchi K. Effects of socioeconomic factors and cancer survivors' worries on their quality of life (QOL) in Japan. Psychooncology 2008; 17:606-11. [PMID: 17972358 DOI: 10.1002/pon.1278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Effects of socioeconomic factors and cancer survivors' worries on their quality of life (QOL) were investigated. In 2002, Japanese national survey was performed to assess distress among cancer patients using a semi-structured questionnaire (http://www.scchr.jp/yorozu/pdf/taiken_koe_eng.pdf). We investigated relationships between patients' distress and their QOL measured by European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy--12-item Spiritual Well-Being Scale (FACIT-Sp), using a covariance structure analysis and multivariate regression analysis. A total of 130 outpatients (male: 42%; average age: 59 years; performance status rating 0-2:89%; breast/lung/gastrointestinal cancer: 38/22/21%) answered the questionnaires. A covariance structure analysis extracted latent variables, which were named socioeconomic distress and cancer worries, using a model that sufficiently represented the observed data (Goodness of fit index = 0.833). Regression analysis demonstrated that higher family income significantly correlated with better Global health status/QOL (p = 0.003) but that losing a job negatively correlated with all of the scales on functioning in the QLQ-C30 (p < 0.05) and spiritual well-being (p < 0.05). Patients' QOL was also affected by physical worries and spiritual issues in terms of emotional, cognitive, and social functioning. In conclusion, cancer survivors' QOL was doubly affected by socioeconomic distress and cancer worries. In the former, lower family income and losing employment by experiencing cancer had a negative impact on patients' QOL. As to the latter, physical worries and spiritual issues also affected patients' QOL.
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Shiojima T, Fujiki Y, Sagai H, Iyobe S, Morikawa A. Prevalence of Streptococcus pneumoniae isolates bearing macrolide resistance genes in association with integrase genes of conjugative transposons in Japan. Clin Microbiol Infect 2005; 11:808-13. [PMID: 16153254 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-0691.2005.01232.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
The relationship between susceptibility to macrolides and tetracycline, and the distribution of the resistance genes erm(B), mef(A) and tet(M) and the integrase gene of the conjugative transposon, Int-Tn, was examined in 43 isolates of Streptococcus pneumoniae from Gunma Prefecture, Japan. Thirty-five isolates were resistant to both macrolides and tetracycline and carried tet(M); erm(B) and mef(A) were detected in 19 and 16, respectively, of these isolates. Sixteen mef(A)-positive isolates were all identified as mef(E) variants. Int-Tn of Tn1545 was associated with 17 erm(B)- and 14 mef(A)-bearing isolates, and Int-Tn of Tn5252 was found in the remaining two mef(A)-carrying isolates. Pneumococcal strains with resistance to macrolides conferred by erm(B) or mef(A) in association with the integrase gene of conjugative transposon Tn1545 or Tn5252 appear to be prevalent in Japan.
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Saitoh Y, Dake Y, Shimazu S, Sakoda T, Sogo H, Fujiki Y, Shirakawa T, Enomoto T. Month of birth, atopic disease, and atopic sensitization. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 2002; 11:183-7. [PMID: 11831451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Japanese cedar (Cryptmeria japonica; CJ) pollen and house dust mites are the two important aeroallergens in Japan. However, no epidemiological survey has been performed in Japan to investigate the relationship between month of birth and manifestations of allergic disease and sensitization. OBJECTIVE This study evaluates the correlation between month of birth and sensitization to aeroallergens or the occurrence of allergic disease on 755 Japanese school children aged 12-13 years. METHODS The personal history of atopic disease (bronchial asthma, allergic rhinitis, eczema, and allergic conjunctivitis) as recorded by questionnaires was investigated in relation to total serum IgE and specific IgE toward house dust mites and CJ pollen. RESULTS Positive specific IgE toward house dust mites was significantly less prevalent in the children born between January and March than those born during the rest of the year (p < 0.01). Positive specific IgE toward CJ pollen was significantly more prevalent in the children born between December and January than those born during the rest of the year (p < 0.05). High total IgE was less prevalent in the children born between February and April than in children born during the rest of the year (p = 0.05). The prevalence of bronchial asthma was 26.2% among children born between November and December, compared with a ratio of 17.3% among children born during the rest of the year (p < 0.05). A significantly higher proportion of the children with allergic rhinitis was born between August and October than during the rest of the year (p < 0.05). The prevalence of allergic conjunctivitis was 15.8% among the children who were born between December and January, compared with 9.1% among children born during the rest of the year (p < 0.01). No relationship between prevalence of eczema and season of birth was found. CONCLUSION Month of birth appears to influence the risk in the development of allergic sensitization and atopic diseases. The findings concerning higher CJ pollen sensitization in children born in the months that proceed the CJ pollen seasons are as evident as the house-dust-mite-related findings.
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Fumimoto H, Kobayashi K, Chang CH, Eremenco S, Fujiki Y, Uemura S, Ohashi Y, Kudoh S. Cross-cultural validation of an international questionnaire, the General Measure of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy scale (FACT-G), for Japanese. Qual Life Res 2002; 10:701-9. [PMID: 11871591 DOI: 10.1023/a:1013851216181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The General Measure of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy scale (FACT-G) was developed in an English-speaking culture (USA). To determine if FACT-G could be used in Japan, a cross-cultural validation was performed. The Japanese version was created through an iterative forward-backward translation sequence used throughout the FACT multi-lingual translation project. In evaluating psychometric testing, its construct validity was investigated by factor analysis and multi-trait scaling analysis. Clinical validity was estimated by known-groups comparison using stage, performance score (PS) and patient location, and validated longitudinally by PS. The FACT-G (version 3) was given to 180 patients with lung cancer. Analyses showed that the scales of Physical, Functional, Emotional Well-Being, and Relationship with Doctors were constructively valid in Japan. Japanese patients felt that familial relationships were different than those with friends and neighbors, indicating that the Social/Family Well-Being scale needed cultural adaptation. Two items concerning coping with illness and acceptance of illness did not load predictably onto their respective scales and were considered to be cross-culturally problematic. However, clinical validity demonstrated its sensitivity. Japanese version 4 has been improved to address the weakness in an attempt to become an instrument that is applicable across cultures.
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Hamada H, Fujiki Y, Obata-Yasuoka M, Watanabe H, Yamada N, Kubo T. Prenatal sonographic diagnosis of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome in association with a single umbilical artery. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2001; 29:535-538. [PMID: 11745867 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.10017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome is an inherited disorder most commonly characterized by prenatal or postnatal overgrowth, macroglossia, omphalocele, unusual earlobe creases, and increased risk of neoplasia. Several reported cases of this syndrome have been prenatally diagnosed, but no report has described the occurrence of this syndrome in association with a single umbilical artery. We report a case in which prenatal sonographic examination demonstrated fetal overgrowth, macroglossia, and omphalocele together with a single umbilical artery; our prenatal diagnosis of Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome was confirmed after birth of the infant. The possibility of this syndrome should be considered when performing a detailed sonographic examination of a fetus with a single umbilical artery.
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Suzuki Y, Shimozawa N, Orii T, Tsukamoto T, Osumi T, Fujiki Y, Kondo N. Genetic and molecular bases of peroxisome biogenesis disorders. Genet Med 2001; 3:372-6. [PMID: 11545691 DOI: 10.1097/00125817-200109000-00007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
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Tamura S, Matsumoto N, Imamura A, Shimozawa N, Suzuki Y, Kondo N, Fujiki Y. Phenotype-genotype relationships in peroxisome biogenesis disorders of PEX1-defective complementation group 1 are defined by Pex1p-Pex6p interaction. Biochem J 2001; 357:417-26. [PMID: 11439091 PMCID: PMC1221968 DOI: 10.1042/0264-6021:3570417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBDs), including Zellweger syndrome (ZS), neonatal adrenoleucodystrophy (NALD) and infantile Refsum disease (IRD), are fatal autosomal recessive diseases caused by impaired peroxisome biogenesis, of which 12 genotypes have been reported. ZS patients manifest the severest clinical and biochemical abnormalities, whereas those with NALD and IRD show less severity and the mildest features respectively. We have reported previously that temperature-sensitive peroxisome assembly is responsible for the mildness of the clinical features of IRD. PEX1 is the causative gene for PBDs of complementation group E (CG-E, CG1 in the U.S.A. and Europe), the PBDs of highest incidence, encoding the peroxin Pex1p of the AAA ATPase family. It has been also reported that Pex1p and Pex6p interact with each other. In the present study we investigated phenotype-genotype relationships of CG1 PBDs. Pex1p from IRD such as Pex1p with the most frequently identified mutation at G843D was largely degraded in vivo at 37 degrees C, whereas a normal level of Pex1p was detectable at the permissive temperature. In contrast, PEX1 proteins derived from ZS patients, including proteins with a mutation at L664P or the deletion of residues 634-690, were stably present at both temperatures. Pex1p-G843D interacted with Pex6p at approx. 50% of the level of normal Pex1p, whereas Pex1p from ZS patients mostly showing non-temperature-sensitive peroxisome biogenesis hardly bound to Pex6p. Taking these results together, we consider it most likely that the stability of Pex1p reflects temperature-sensitive peroxisome assembly in IRD fibroblasts. Failure in Pex1p-Pex6p interaction gives rise to more severe abnormalities, such as those manifested by patients with ZS.
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Harano T, Nose S, Uezu R, Shimizu N, Fujiki Y. Hsp70 regulates the interaction between the peroxisome targeting signal type 1 (PTS1)-receptor Pex5p and PTS1. Biochem J 2001; 357:157-65. [PMID: 11415446 PMCID: PMC1221938 DOI: 10.1042/0264-6021:3570157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The peroxisome targeting signal type 1 (PTS1) receptor, Pex5p, of the tetratricopeptide repeat (TPR) motif family is located mostly in the cytosol and mediates the translocation of PTS1 proteins to peroxisomes. As a step towards understanding the mechanisms of protein import into peroxisomes, we investigated the molecular mechanisms involved in PTS1 recognition by Pex5p with regard to requirement of energy and cytosolic factors, using cell-free synthesized acyl-CoA oxidase (AOx) as a PTS1 cargo protein, together with Pex5p and heat-shock protein (Hsp)70 from rat liver. Pex5p was partly associated with peroxisomes of rat liver, was resistant to washing with a high concentration of salt and to alkaline extraction and was inaccessible to protease added externally. Pex5p bound to AOx in an ATP-dependent manner. AOx synthesized in a cell-free translating system from rabbit reticulocyte lysate was imported into peroxisomes without being supplemented with Pex5p and Hsp70, implying that peroxisome-associated Pex5p was released from the membranes and functional in this in vitro import assay. Antibodies against Pex5p and Hsp70 inhibited AOx import. In contrast, AOx synthesized in a wheat-germ lysate required the external addition of Pex5p for import, in which Hsp70 augmented the AOx import. The TPR domain of Pex5p was revealed to bind to the N-terminal part in an Hsp70-independent manner, whereas mutual interaction of the TPR region was noted in the presence of Hsp70. Hsp70 interacted with the TPR domain of Pex5p. Moreover, Hsp70 and ATP synergistically enhanced the binding of Pex5p to the C-terminal PTS1-containing part of AOx, implying that Pex5p recognizes its cargo PTS1 protein by chaperone-assisted as well as energy-dependent mechanisms in vivo.
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Fujiki Y, Okumoto K, Otera H, Tamura S. Peroxisome biogenesis and molecular defects in peroxisome assembly disorders. Cell Biochem Biophys 2001; 32 Spring:155-64. [PMID: 11330042 DOI: 10.1385/cbb:32:1-3:155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Peroxisome assembly in mammals requires more than 14 genes. So far, we have isolated seven complementation groups (CGs) of peroxisome biogenesis-defective Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell mutants, Z65, Z24/ZP107, ZP92, ZP105/ZP139, ZP109, ZP110, ZP114. Two peroxin cDNAs, PEX2 and PEX6, were first cloned by genetic phenotype-complementation assay using Z65 and ZP92, respectively, and were shown to be responsible for peroxisome biogenesis disorders (PBD) such as Zellweger syndrome, of CG-F (the same as CG-X in U.S.A.) and CG-C (the same as CG-IV), respectively. Pex2p is a RING zinc finger membrane protein of peroxisomes and Pex6p is a member of the AAA ATPase family. We likewise isolated PEX12 encoding a peroxisomal integral membrane protein in the RING family, by functional complementation of ZP109, demonstrating PEX12 to be responsible for CG-III PBD. We also cloned PEX1 by screening of human liver cDNA library, using ZP107. PEX1 mutation was delineated to be the genetic cause of PBD in the most highest incidence group, CG-E (the same as CG-I). Moreover, we recently found that Pex5p is involved in transport of not only PTS1- but also PTS2-protein, distinct from yeast Pex5p, using PEX5-defective ZP105 and ZP139. Thus, CHO cell mutants defective in peroxisome biogenesis are indeed shown to be very useful for the studies of peroxisome assembly and delineating pathogenic genes in PBD. Furthermore, we have isolated novel CGs of CHO mutants, ZP119 and ZP126.
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Fujiki Y, Ito M, Nishida I, Watanabe A. Leucine and its keto acid enhance the coordinated expression of genes for branched-chain amino acid catabolism in Arabidopsis under sugar starvation. FEBS Lett 2001; 499:161-5. [PMID: 11418132 DOI: 10.1016/s0014-5793(01)02536-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKDH), a multienzyme complex, plays a key role in branched-chain amino acid catabolism. However, it remains unclear whether expression of each subunit is coordinately regulated in plants, which should be important for the efficient assembly of subunits into a functional multienzyme complex. We show that the transcripts from the Arabidopsis E1alpha subunit gene accumulated in dark-adapted leaves and in sugar-starved suspension cells. These results are complementary to our previous report that the transcripts for the E1beta and E2 subunit genes accumulated in sugar-starved cells. Expression of the E1alpha gene is likely to be regulated by hexokinase-mediated sugar signaling, indicating that sugar plays a regulatory role in the coordinated expression of BCKDH subunit genes. Furthermore, Leu and its metabolite alpha-ketoisocaproate have synergistic effects on the enhanced expression of BCKDH subunit genes under sugar starvation. We hence suggest that branched-chain amino acids activate their own degradation pathway in sugar-starved cells through co-induction of each subunit gene of BCKDH.
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Enomoto T, Ohnishi S, Dake Y, Sakoda T, Saitoh Y, Sogo H, Seno S, Fujiki Y, Fujimura S. [Japanese cedar pollen in house dust]. ARERUGI = [ALLERGY] 2001; 50:535-9. [PMID: 11517516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
Abstract
Caring for oneself against Japanese cedar pollinosis is important as well as receiving medical-care. Although the importance of avoiding pollen is described in the guideline for nasal allergy medical treatment, however, there is no information for effective dust cleaning for the home. This study examined how many cedar pollens were included in indoor dust in order to obtain basic data whether dust removal for cedar pollen is available for pollinosis suffers. As a result, the study found that there were many Japanese cedar pollens in indoor dust even before the pollen season. Cedar pollen increased with the increasing number of airborne pollen. The highest number of pollen found in one week was approximately 450 pollens in a square meter of a living room floor. The study concluded that cleaning is one of the best way to remove Japanese cedar pollens found in indoor dust.
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Hamada H, Yamada N, Watanabe H, Okuno S, Fujiki Y, Kubo T. Hypoechoic hepatomegaly associated with transient abnormal myelopoiesis provides clues to trisomy 21 in the third-trimester fetus. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2001; 17:442-444. [PMID: 11380972 DOI: 10.1046/j.1469-0705.2001.00362.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
We present two cases of transient abnormal myelopoiesis associated with trisomy 21 that had hypoechoic hepatomegaly during the late fetal period. Fetal chromosomal abnormality and fetal myeloproliferative disorder should be suspected in such cases.
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Matsumoto N, Tamura S, Moser A, Moser HW, Braverman N, Suzuki Y, Shimozawa N, Kondo N, Fujiki Y. The peroxin Pex6p gene is impaired in peroxisomal biogenesis disorders of complementation group 6. J Hum Genet 2001; 46:273-7. [PMID: 11355018 DOI: 10.1007/s100380170078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Human genetic peroxisomal biogenesis disorders (PBDs), such as Zellweger syndrome, comprise 13 different complementation groups (CGs). Eleven peroxin genes, termed PEXs, responsible for PBDs have been identified, whereas pathogenic genes for PBDs of 2CGs, CG-A (the same CG as CG8 in the United States and Europe) and CG6, remained unidentified. We herein provide several lines of novel evidence indicating that PEX6, the pathogenic gene for CG4, is impaired in PBD of CG6. Expression of PEX6 restored peroxisome assembly in fibroblasts from a CG6 PBD patient. This patient was a compound heterozygote for PEX6 gene alleles. Accordingly, by merging CG6 with CG4, human PBDs are now classified into 12CGs.
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