Quantitative TMT-based proteomics revealing host, dietary and microbial proteins in bovine faeces including barley serpin Z4, a prominent component in the head of beer

There has been little information about the proteome of bovine faeces or about the contribution to the faecal proteome of proteins from the host, the feed or the intestinal microbiome. Here, the bovine faecal proteome and the origin of its component proteins was assessed, while also determining the effect of treating barley, the major carbohydrate in the feed, with either ammonia (ATB) or sodium propionate (PTB) preservative. Healthy continental crossbreed steers were allocated to two groups and fed on either of the barley-based diets. Five faecal samples from each group were collected on Day 81 of the trial and analysed by quantitative proteomics using nLC-ESI-MS/MS after tandem mass tag labelling. In total, 281 bovine proteins, 199 barley proteins, 176 bacterial proteins and 190 archaeal proteins were identified in the faeces. Mucosal pentraxin, albumin and digestive enzymes were among bovine proteins identified. Serpin Z4 a protease inhibitor was the most abundant barley protein identified which is also found in barley-based beer, while numerous microbial proteins were identified, many originating bacteria from Clostridium, while Methanobrevibacter was the dominant archaeal genus. Thirty-nine proteins were differentially abundant between groups, the majority being more abundant in the PTB group compared to the ATB group. SIGNIFICANCE: Proteomic examination of faeces is becoming a valuable means to assess the health of the gastro-intestinal tract in several species, but knowledge on the proteins present in bovine faeces is limited. This investigation aimed to characterise the proteome of bovine faecal extracts in order to evaluate the potential for investigations of the proteome as a means to assess the health, disease and welfare of cattle in the future. The investigation was able to identify proteins in bovine faeces that had been (i) produced by the individual cattle, (ii) present in the barley-based feed eaten by the cattle or (iii) produced by bacteria and other microbes in the rumen or intestines. Bovine proteins identified included mucosal pentraxin, serum albumin and a variety of digestive enzymes. Barley proteins found in the faeces included serpin Z4, a protease inhibitor that is also found in beer having survived the brewing process. Bacterial and archaeal proteins in the faecal extracts were related to several pathways related to the metabolism of carbohydrates. The recognition of the range of proteins that can be identified in bovine faeces raises the possibility that non-invasive sample collection of this material could provide a novel diagnostic approach to cattle health and welfare.

An electrochemiluminescence immunosensor with double co-reaction accelerators based on Ag3PO4@EuPO4-AgNP for detecting squamous cell carcinoma antigen

This study aimed to design a sandwich electrochemiluminescence (ECL) immunosensor with double co-reaction accelerators for sensitively detecting squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA). First, silver orthophosphate (Ag3PO4) nanoparticles were modified on the surface of EuPO4 nanowires to improve their poor dispersibility/solubility. At the same time, EuPO4 was used as a co-reaction accelerator to catalyze S2O82- to produce more intermediates (SO4•-), significantly enhancing the ECL signal of Ag3PO4. Ag nanoparticles (AgNP) modified on Ag3PO4@EuPO4 composite nanomaterials were used not only as linkers of luminescence groups and biomarkers but also as a co-reaction accelerator to effectively enhance ECL signal. The designed ECL immunosensor displayed several advantages, including good stability and reproducibility. Under the optimal conditions, its linear range in detecting SCCA was 0.0001-50 ng·mL-1, the detection limit was 25 fg·mL-1 (S/N = 3), the recovery was 96.6-100.4%, and the relative standard deviation was less than 4.8%. It was successfully applied to detect SCCA in human serum.

Study on Factors Associated with High Myopia CNV in Aqueous Humor and Serum

Objective

The objective is to investigate the relationship and correlation between PEDF and TGF-β in aqueous humor and serum and high myopia CNV lesions.

Methods

For each group of patients (namely, group A: patients with high myopia CNV (mCNV); group B: patients with high myopia without CNV; group C: patients with CNV caused by other eye diseases; and group D (control group): patients with simple cataract (without CNV and high myopia)), 20 patients were collected. A total of 40 patients have been collected since the beginning of the study in December 2020, including 7 patients in group A, 13 patients in group B, 10 patients in group C, and 10 patients in group D. Serum and aqueous humor samples were collected, and PEDF and TGF-β levels in serum and aqueous humor were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). SPSS 26.0 statistical software was used to process the data. Independent sample t-test was used to compare the data of the same factor in the same group between serum and aqueous humor. Comparisons of the same factors between different groups were performed using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Correlation analysis was conducted by the Pearson correlation coefficient test. P < 0.05 indicated that the difference was statistically significant.

Results

There were no significant differences in age, gender, and course of disease among all groups (P > 0.05). The concentration of PEDF in aqueous humor in group A and group C was higher than that in group B and group D. There was no significant correlation between serum PEDF content and the above-mentioned diseases. The concentration of TGF-β in aqueous humor in groups A, B, and C was significantly higher than that in group D. However, there was no significant correlation between TGF-β content in serum and the above-mentioned diseases. There was no significant correlation between aqueous humor and serum PEDF. There was no significant correlation between the content of TGF-β in aqueous humor and serum.

Conclusion

TGF-β in aqueous humor may be involved in the development of high myopia and intraocular CNV disease. However, PEDF in aqueous humor may be involved in the development of intraocular CNV disease and has no significant correlation with high myopia. At the same time, TGF-β and PEDF in serum had no significant correlation with high myopia and intraocular CNV disease. There was no significant correlation between the concentrations of TGF-β and PEDF in aqueous humor and serum.

A fluorescent lateral flow biosensor for the quantitative detection of Vaspin using upconverting nanoparticles

Vaspin is a protein present in human serum that can cause type-2 diabetes, obesity, and other cardiovascular diseases. We report fluorescent upconverting nanoparticles (UCNPs)-based lateral flow biosensor for ultrasensitive detection of Vaspin. A pair (primary and secondary) of cognate aptamers was used that has duo binding with Vaspin. UCNPs with a diameter of around 100 nm were used as a tag to label a detection probe (secondary aptamer). A primary aptamer (capture probe) was immobilized on the test zone. Sandwich type hybridization reactions among the conjugate probe, target Vaspin, and primary aptamer were performed on the lateral flow biosensor. In the presence of target Vaspin, UCNPs were captured on the test zone of the biosensor and the fluorescent intensity of the captured UCNPs was measured through a colorimetric app under NIR. Fluorescence intensity indicates the quantity of Vaspin present in the sample. A range of Vaspin concentration across 0.1-55 ng ml^-1 with a Limit of detection (LOD) 39 pg ml^-1 was tested through this UCNPs based LFSA with high sensitivity, reproducibility and repeatability, whereas it's actual range in human blood is from 0.1 to 7 ng ml^-1. Therefore, this research provides a well-suited lateral flow strip with an ultrasensitive and low-cost approach for the early diagnosis of type-2 diabetes and this could be applied to any targets with a duo of aptamers generated.

Facile fabrication of visible light photoelectrochemical immunosensor for SCCA detection based on BiOBr/Bi2S3 heterostructures via self-sacrificial synthesis method

A novel visible light photoelectrochemical immunosensor based on BiOBr/Bi₂S₃ heterostructures was fabricated to detect squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA). Bi₂S₃ nanoparticles formed on the BiOBr microflowers by the self-sacrificial synthesis method based on the facile reaction between BiOBr and S^2- ions. The BiOBr/Bi₂S₃ composites exhibited excellent visible light photoelectrochemical activity, when ascorbic acid (AA) was employed as a perfect electron donor. The photocurrent intensity of BiOBr/Bi₂S₃ modified ITO electrode arrived at around 20 µA, which was approximately 30 times than that of pure BiOBr. Dopamine formed easily polydopamine film via self-polymerization on the surface of BiOBr/Bi₂S₃ composites to immobilize SCCA antibody. Under the optimal condition, this photoelectrochemical immunosensor realized the ultrasensitive determination of SCCA. With the logarithm of SCCA concentration in the range of 0.001-75 ng mL^-1, the specific binding between SCCA and antibody led to the linearly decrease of photocurrent signal with a low detection limit of 0.3 pg mL^-1 (S/N = 3). This facilely constructed photoelectrochemical immunosensor maybe have promising practical application in photocatalysis, analytical detection and biosensor, etc.

The value of squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCa) to determine the lymph nodal metastasis in cervical cancer: A meta-analysis and literature review

BACKGROUND

The diagnostic power of CT or MRI on the lymph node status was limited. Supplement measurements were needed to assist the diagnosis of lymph node metastasis. The SCCa was reported to be close related to lymph node status. But currently the clinical value of serum SCCa measurement in lymph node status has not been clearly defined. This meta-analysis was to investigate this topic on a large scale.

METHOD

Searching the Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane library, CNKI and Wanfang database for SCC-Ag/SCCA/SCC-antigen and cervical cancer/tumor/carcinoma/neoplasm published in any language from Jan 1 1990 to Aug 1 2017. QUADAS (quality assessment of diagnostic accuracy studies) was used to evaluate the quality of the articles. An eligible set of data should include true positive, true negative, false positive and false negative number. Every set of data was extracted and analyzed by STATA 14.0. The forest plot and bivariate boxplot were utilized to evaluate the heterogeneity. The funnel graph was used to test the publication bias. The SROC curve was draw via random effect model and HSROC model.

RESULT

17 sets of data and 3985 patients were included for the diagnostic meta-analysis. There was heterogeneity, which was partially from SCCa cut-off value. The pooled sensitivity was 0.70 and specificity was 0.63. AUC was 0.73. Eight articles provided the relative risk value of lymphatic metastasis when SCCa increased. The relative risk of lymph node metastasis increased ranging from 2.3-40 as with different SCCa cut off value.

CONCLUSION

The diagnostic value of SCCa for lymph nodal metastasis was medium and it was strongly related to lymph node status. Thus SCCa could assist imaging tests to detect lymph node metastasis. Besides, it was correlated with para-aortic lymph node metastasis.

Nuclear maspin expression: A biomarker for budding assessment in colorectal cancer specimens

AIM

To evaluate the maspin expression in colorectal carcinomas (CRC) and its possible role in quantification of the tumor budding.

METHODS

The tumor budding was prospectively quantified in 49 consecutive cases of patients that underwent surgical resection for CRC. The cases were divided in two groups: group A (n=23) - low budding (<5 tumor buds per high microscopic field) and group B (n=26) - high budding CRCs (≥5 buds). Maspin expression was evaluated in the tumor core and the buds from the hot spot area in 44 of the microsatellite stable adenocarcinomas. Its expression was quantified as negative, cytoplasmic only, nuclear only or mixed expression (cytoplasm and nucleus).

RESULTS

Compared with group A, a higher pT (p <0.0001) and pN stage (p=0.0001) and infiltrating aspect at macroscopic evaluation (p=0.0081) was identified in group B. No correlation between the maspin expression in the tumore core and the budding grade was noted (p=0.14). Compared with the tumor core, the cytoplasm to nuclear translocation of maspin was more frequently observed in cases from group B than A (n=0.0063).

CONCLUSION

For the colorectal carcinomas, the infiltrative aspect at macroscopic evaluation and nuclear maspin in the buds might be used as indicators of risk for lymph node metastases. Maspin nuclear expression in the buds may be helpful for a proper budding assessment and may serve as a negative prognostic factor.

Proteomics approach to identify novel metastatic bone markers from the secretome of PC-3 prostate cancer cells

Prostate cancer is the leading type of cancer diagnosed, and the most frequent cause of worldwide male cancer-related deaths annually. The limitations of current prostate cancer screening tests demand the identification of novel biomarkers for the early diagnosis of prostate cancer bone metastasis. In the present study, we performed a proteomic analysis of secreted proteins from the prostate cancer bone metastasis cell line, PC-3, and the normal prostate cell line, RWPE-1. We thus quantified 917 proteins, of which 68 were found to be secreted at higher levels by PC-3 than by RWPE-1 cells via LC-MS/MS. To characterize the highly secreted proteins in the PC-3 cell line and thereby identify biomarker proteins, we divided the quantifiable proteins into four quantitative categories (Q1-Q4). The KEGG lysine degradation and osteoclast differentiation pathways were demonstrated to be enriched in the highly secreted Q4 protein group. Transforming growth factor (TGF) beta family proteins related to osteoclast differentiation were identified as key regulators of PC-3 cell proliferation. Immunoblotting was used to confirm the observed high level of pentraxin, follistatin, TGF-beta family members, and serpin B3 secretion by PC-3 cells. From the collective results of the present study, we suggest that serpin B3 is a promising novel biomarker candidate for the diagnosis of prostate cancer bone metastasis.

Expression of SERPINA3s in cattle: focus on bovSERPINA3-7 reveals specific involvement in skeletal muscle

α₁-Antichymotrypsin is encoded by the unique SERPINA3 gene in humans, while it is encoded by a cluster of eight closely related genes in cattle. BovSERPINA3 proteins present a high degree of similarity and significant divergences in the reactive centre loop (RCL) domains which are responsible for the antiprotease activity. In this study, we analysed their expression patterns in a range of cattle tissues. Even if their expression is ubiquitous, we showed that the expression levels of each serpin vary in different tissues of 15-month-old Charolais bulls. Our results led us to focus on bovSERPINA3-7, one of the two most divergent members of the bovSERPINA3 family. Expression analyses showed that bovSERPINA3-7 protein presents different tissue-specific patterns with diverse degrees of N-glycosylation. Using a specific antibody raised against bovSERPINA3-7, Western blot analysis revealed a specific 96 kDa band in skeletal muscle. BovSERPINA3-7 immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry revealed that this 96 kDa band corresponds to a complex of bovSERPINA3-7 and creatine kinase M-type. Finally, we reported that the bovSERPINA3-7 protein is present in slow-twitch skeletal myofibres. Precisely, bovSERPINA3-7 specifically colocalized with myomesin at the M-band region of sarcomeres where it could interact with other components such as creatine kinase M-type. This study opens new prospects on the bovSERPINA3-7 function in skeletal muscle and promotes opportunities for further understanding of the physiological role(s) of serpins.

Clinical Value of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Antigen (SCCAg) in Anal Cancer - A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis

AIM

To assess the clinical value of squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCAg) in anal cancer for chemoradiotherapy (CRT) patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In 24 patients with SCC of the anus, SCCAg was determined before CRT and at every follow-up visit.

RESULTS

16/24 (66.7%) had normal SCCAg and 11/16 (68.8%) achieved complete remission (CR), while 7/8 (87.5%) with elevated SCCAg achieved CR. In two patients, elevated SCCAg was observed after radiotherapy. One was false-positive and one was true-positive leading to diagnosis of metachronous recurrent and metastatic disease after interim CR.

CONCLUSION

SCCAg was inappropriate to predict the clinical outcome but can provide additional information on the regular follow-up examinations to detect a relapse.

Quantitative proteomic analysis of mice corneal tissues reveals angiogenesis-related proteins involved in corneal neovascularization

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) was induced in Balb/c mice by alkali burns in the central area of the cornea with a diameter of 2.5mm. After fourteen days, the cornea from one eye was collected for histological staining for CNV examination, while the cornea from the other eye of the same mouse was harvested for proteomic analysis. The label-free quantitative proteomic approach was applied to analyze five normal corneal tissues (normal group mice n=5) and five corresponding neovascularized corneal tissues (model group mice n=5). A total of 2124 proteins were identified, and 1682 proteins were quantified from these corneal tissues. Among these quantified proteins, 290 proteins were significantly changed between normal and alkali burned corneal tissues. Of these significantly changed proteins, 35 were reported or predicted as angiogenesis-related proteins. Then, these 35 proteins were analyzed using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis Software, resulting in 26 proteins enriched and connected to each other in the protein-protein interaction network, such as Lcn-2, αB-crystallin and Serpinf1 (PEDF). These three significantly changed proteins were selected for further Western blotting validation. Consistent with the quantitative proteomic results, Western blotting showed that Lcn-2 and αB-crystallin were significantly up-regulated in CNV model, while PEDF was down-regulated. This study provided increased understanding of angiogenesis-related proteins involved in corneal vascular development, which will be useful in the ophthalmic clinic of specifically target angiogenesis.

[Analysis of the Squamous Cell Carcinoma Antigen (SCCA) Which Has a Significant Difference in Values between CLIA and FEIA--Case Report of Extra Glycosylation in SCCA]

Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA) is a glycoprotein that belongs to the serine protease inhibitor family. Clinically, it has been utilized as a tumor marker for squamous cell carcinoma. In clinical laboratories, SCCA is measured by several immunoassays. Recently, a number of studies have been reported that there is a significant difference in values between the immunoassays, attributing to SCCA-immunoglobulin complex. We found a case with significant difference in the SCCA value between CLIA and FEIA. In this case, SCCA-Immunoglobulin complex was not confirmed by gel filtration analysis. Interestingly, 5 to 10 kDa slightly-high molecular weight SCCA compared to control was detected by immunoblotting assay. It may be suspected that the aberrant glycosyl modification of SCCA influenced the reactivity to immunoassays.

[The correlation between the concentrations of VEGF and PEDF and Ca2+-PKC signaling pathways in human retinal pigment epithelial cells cultured in vitro after exposuring to blue light]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), inositol triphosphate (IP3) and diacylglycerol (DAG) in human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells after exposuring to blue light, and to explore the relationship with Ca2+-PKC signaling pathways, to evaluate the role of Ca2+-PKC signaling pathways of blue-light irradiation induced apoptosis in RPE cells.

METHODS

The fourth generation human RPE cells in vitro were exposured to blue light (2000±500 lux) for 6 hours, 24 hours prolongation of post-exposure culture. The concentrations of VEGF, PEDF, IP3 and DAG were assayed by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cells were randomly divided into 6 groups, group A (control), group B (exposure to blue light), group C (exposure to blue light+PMA), group D (exposure to blue light+Calphostin C), group E (exposure to blue light+Nifedipine), group F (exposure to blue light+Calphostin C+Nifedipine). Flow cytometry was used to detect the apoptosis rate of human RPE cells in A, B and F group.

RESULTS

Comparing with group A (584.38±10.66), the concentration of VEGF in group B (700.70±5.88), group C (698.21±6.66) and group E (648.30±4.91) was higher, the difference was statistically significant (P=0.002, 0.002, 0.016). Comparing with group B (700.70±5.88), the concentration of VEGF in Group D (623.87±3.12) and E (648.30±4.91) was lower (P=0.001, 0.002). Comparing with group A (75.96±1.70), the concentration of PEDF in Group B (71.82±1.67) and C (72.43±0.58) was lower (P=0.004, 0.011), but the concentration of PEDF in Group D (86.31±1.35) and E (93.72±1.24) was higher (P=0.000, 0.000). Comparing with group B (71.82±1.67), the concentration of PEDF in Group D (86.31±1.35) and E (93.72±1.24) was higher (P=0.000, 0.000). Comparing with group A (7.70±0.29), the ratio of VEGF to PEDF in Group B (9.85±0.34) and Croup C (9.64±0.02) was higher (P=0.008, 0.027) Comparing with group B, The ratio of VEGF to PEDF in Group D (7.23±0.08) and E (6.92±0.06) was lower (P=0.016, 0.015). Comparing with group A (108.42±0.75, 995.47± 13.61), the concentration of IP3 and DAG in Group B (117.24±1.06, 1070.10±10.07), C (137.12±2.71, 1046.40±7.90), D (139.17±1.40, 1041.13±9.76) and E (149.61±0.77, 1273.14±10.89) was higher, the difference was statistically significant (P=0.003, 0.007, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000, 0.000). Comparing with group B, the concentration of IP3 in Group C, D and E was higher (P=0.011, 0.000, 0.000). Comparing with group B, the concentration of DAG in Group C and D was lower (P=0.021, 0.007). Comparing with group B, the concentration of DAG in Group E was higher (P=0.000). Comparing with group A (10.27±1.88), the apoptosis rate of RPE cells in Group B(25.07±2.66) and F(19.37±3.23) was higher, the difference was statistically significant (P=0.001, 0.009). Comparing with group B (25.07±2.66), the apoptosis rate of RPE cells in Group F (19.37±3.23) was lower (P=0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

(1) After exposuring to blue light, the concentrations of VEGF, IP3 and DAG are increased and the ratio of VEGF to PEDF is also increased and the concentration of PEDF is decreased in human RPE cells. (2) L-Type Calcium Channels and Ca2+-PKC signaling pathways may be regulate the concentrations of VEGF, PEDF, IP3 and DAG in RPE cells after exposuring to blue light by feedback regulation. (3) The application of Calphostin C combined with Nifedipine may be restrain the apoptosis of RPE cells after exposuring to blue light.

The expression of ATF3, MMP-2 and maspin in tissue chip of glioma

This paper tested and analyzed the expression of ATF3 (activating transcription factor), MMP-2 (matrix metalloprotease) and maspin in tissue chip of glioma and its correlation with glioma advancement. Based on immunohistochemical staining, this paper selected 100 patients with glioma and 13 healthy persons to test the relative expression of ATF3, MMP-2 and maspin. The result witnessed 72.0% of ATF3 expression in glioma and 15.4% in healthy brain tissues with P<0.05; glioma had 76.0% of MMP-2 expression while healthy brain tissues only had 7.7% (P<0.05); but maspin expression with 53.0% in glioma was much lower than that with 100% in healthy tissues with P<0.05. If the pathological stage of glioma rose up, the expression of ATF3 and MMP-2 accordingly increased while maspin expression decreased. The correlation between ATF3 expression and MMP-2 expression was positive with r=0.553 and p<0.01; negative correlation between ATF3 expression and maspin expression was found with r=-0.457 and p<0.01; and the expression of MMP-2 and maspin were negatively related with r=-0.551 and p<0.01. According to the above results, it could be concluded that the expression of ATF3, MMP-2 and maspin did relate with each other. Besides, the high expression of ATF3 and MMP-2 as well as the low expression of maspin had great influence on glioma, playing a key role in glioma's occurrence, advancement, invasion and metastasis.

Nuclear maspin expression correlates with the CpG island methylator phenotype and tumor aggressiveness in colorectal cancer

It has been suggested that nuclear expression of maspin (mammary serine protease inhibitor; also known as SERPINB5) in colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with proximal colonic tumor location, mucinous and poorly differentiated histology, microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H), and poor prognosis. Based on these findings, there may be a potential association between nuclear maspin expression and the CpG island methylator phenotype (CIMP) in CRC, but no study has elucidated this issue. Here, we evaluated maspin protein expression status by immunohistochemistry in 216 MSI-H CRCs. CIMP status was also determined by methylation-specific quantitative PCR method (MethyLight) using eight CIMP markers (MLH1, NEUROG1, CRABP1, CACNA1G, CDKN2A (p16), IGF2, SOCS1, and RUNX3) in 216 MSI-H CRCs. Associations between maspin expression status and various pathological, molecular, and survival data were statistically analyzed. Among the 216 MSI-H CRCs, 111 (51%) cases presented nuclear maspin-positive tumors. Nuclear maspin-positive MSI-H CRCs were significantly associated with proximal tumor location (P = 0.003), tumor budding (P < 0.001), lymphovascular invasion (P = 0.001), perineural invasion (P = 0.008), absence of peritumoral lymphoid reaction (P = 0.045), lymph node metastasis (P = 0.003), distant metastasis (P = 0.005), advanced AJCC/UICC stage (stage III/IV) (P = 0.001), and CIMP-high (CIMP-H) status (P < 0.001). Patients with nuclear maspin-positive tumors showed worse disease-free survival than patients with nuclear maspin-negative tumors (log-rank P = 0.025). In conclusion, nuclear maspin expression is molecularly associated with CIMP-H rather than MSI-H, and clinicopathologically correlates with tumor aggressiveness in CRC.

[Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)--nature and usage in patients with cervical carcinoma]

Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC) is isolated as a heterologic antiserum against cells of cervical carcinoma in 1977 by Kato u Torigoe. It is not specific for cervical carcinoma and rises up in cases of carcinoma vulvae, esophageal carcinoma, carcinoma pulmonum, ext. High levels are detected also in psoriasis, sarcoidosis, liver and kidney diseases. SCC is not a reliable marker in diagnosis and screening. Some trials show a correlation between the preterapeutic levels of SCC and the prognosis, but none of them is randomized. So the predictive value of SCC, except the nodal metastasis, stays on a low level of evidence and recommendation. On the contrary is the data for SCC as a monitoring marker for a local recurrence in patients after primary treatment. The sensitivity and specificity of the marker for a cervical carcinoma recurrence varies between 56 and 86% sensitivity and 83 and 100% specificity. A new possibility for an early recurrence finding in patients with rising SCC gives FDG PET/CT. The method is highly potent in detection of local recurrence and distant metastasis in patients with cervical carcinoma and is suitable for staging, restaging and monitoring of these patients.

Relationship of endothelial area with VEGF-A, COX-2, maspin, c-KIT, and DOG-1 immunoreactivity in liposarcomas versus non-lipomatous soft tissue tumors

Soft tissue tumors are rare tumors that show a heterogeneous structure; thus far, their molecular behavior has not been elucidated. The aim of our study was to define the relationship between microvessel density (MVD), evaluated with CD31, and other immunohistochemical markers, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), CD34, maspin, DOG-1, and c-KIT. Immunostains were done in 55 cases consisting of benign and malignant tumors, such as liposarcomas, dermatofibrosarcomas, and tumors with histiocytic differentiation. Renal tubes were used as external control for VEGF, maspin, and DOG-1. Although DOG-1 is considered a specific marker for gastrointestinal tumors (GISTs), its positivity, correlated with c-KIT and VEGF immunoexpression, was also shown by dermatofibrosarcomas and tumors with histiocytic and lipomatous differentiation, suggesting its possible pro-angiogenic role. Maspin expression was observed in adipose tissue tumors only. Regarding angiogenesis, 31 of the 55 cases were VEGF-positive, such positivity being directly correlated with COX-2 and CD34 positivity as evaluated in the tumor cells and also with MVD. Although no significant differences in angiogenic activity were found between benign and malignant non-lipomatous tumors, the MVD was directly correlated with the histological type/grade of liposarcomas. Based on these aspects, we conclude that VEGF/COX-2-induced angiogenesis is specific for non-lipomatous tumors, whereas liposarcomas are dependent on the VEGF/maspin angiogenic pathway. The DOG-1/c-KIT/VEGF target may be used for further personalized therapy of soft tissue sarcomas. No data about DOG-1 and maspin positivity in liposarcomas have been published to date.

PtSerpin from the swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus, a putative regulator of prophenoloxidase activation with antibacterial activity

Serpin or serine protease inhibitor is the largest family of protease inhibitors involved in many innate immune pathways, particularly the prophenoloxidase (proPO) activating system in arthropod. Here, we report the molecular and functional characterization of PtSerpin identified from the swimming crab Portunus trituberculatus. The genomic sequence encoding mature peptide of PtSerpin gene contained two exons of 84 and 1098 bp separated by one intron of 111 bp. The recombinant PtSerpin (rPtSerpin) with a predicted size of 44 kDa was expressed in Escherichia coli system, purified and assayed for its activities. The rPtSerpin exhibited inhibitory activity against trypsin in a dose-dependent manner, but did not affect chymotrypsin, which could define a role for PtSerpin as a trypsin inhibitor. The rPtSerpin could inhibit the growth of Gram-negative bacterium Vibrio alginolyticus, but not the tested Gram-positive bacterium and fungus. Further phenoloxidase (PO) assay showed PO activity was dramatically increased in hemocyte lysate supernatant of P. trituberculatus upon bacterial challenge. The rPtSerpin could depress the crab proPO system activation in vitro, and it could lead to 100% inhibition of PO activity under the concentration of 8.62 μM. Moreover, the rPtSerpin was able to inhibit the PO activity induced by rPtcSP and rPtSPH1. These results together indicate that PtSerpin is a potential trypsin inhibitor and may participate in crab innate immunity by the inhibition of bacterial growth and the regulation of proPO system.

High frequency of coexpression of maspin with p63 and p53 in squamous cell carcinoma but not in adenocarcinoma of the lung

Maspin, a member of the serpin family of protease inhibitors, has been shown to inhibit tumor growth and suppress metastasis in several malignancies, including lung cancer. Previous studies have reported that p63 and p53 control maspin expression by transactivating the promoter. The present study analyzed immunohistochemical studies to determine the expression and coexpression patterns of maspin, p63 and p53 in non-small cell lung carcinoma, specifically squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. The results showed that 83/86 cases (96.5%) of squamous cell carcinoma and 82/161 cases (50.9%) of adenocarcinoma included in this study were positive for maspin. There were 79/86 cases (91.9%) of squamous cell carcinoma and 16/161 cases (9.9%) of adenocarcinoma with positive expression for p63. In addition, 77/86 cases (89.5%) of squamous cell carcinoma and 99/161 cases (61.5%) of adenocarcinoma were positive for p53. Maspin, p63 and p53 expression were each significantly higher in squamous cell carcinoma than adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinomas more highly coexpress maspin and p63, as well as maspin and p53, when compared with adenocarcinomas. The high frequency of coexpression of maspin and p63, as well as maspin and p53, in squamous cell carcinoma, suggests that p63 and p53 may be involved in the pathway to control maspin expression. Therapeutic targeting on maspin, p63 and p53 molecules might be beneficial in the management of patients with squamous cell carcinomas of the lung in the future.

Expression of Snail transcription factor in prostatic adenocarcinoma in Egypt: correlation with Maspin protein expression and clinicopathologic variables

BACKGROUND

Snail transcription factor and Maspin tumor suppressor serpin are involved in the regulation of progression, invasion and metastasis of many human malignancies. However, there is very limited data in the literature about their role in prostatic adenocarcinoma. The present study was designed to investigate Snail and Maspin expression, their interrelationship and their relationship to different clinicopathologic variables in clinically detectable prostatic adenocarcinoma.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Tissue sections from 110 resected prostatic lesions distributed as 80 cases of prostatic adenocarcinoma and 30 cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) were evaluated for Snail and Maspin proteins expression by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Snail protein expression was detected in 53.8% of prostatic adenocarcinomas versus none of BPH cases (p = < 0.001). A significant positive correlation of Snail expression to cancer grade (p = 0.015), lymph node metastasis (p = 0.026) and pTNM stage (p = 0.036). Maspin expression was detected in 36.6% of prostatic adenocarcinomas versus 93.3% of BPH cases (p = < 0.001). A significant negative correlation of Maspin expression to cancer grade (p = 0.007) and lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.017). Also detected was a significant negative relationship between Snail and Maspin expression in cancer cases under investigation (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Snail immunohistochemical expression can be promising as a potential prognostic biomarker in prostatic adenocarcinoma since it was significantly associated with clinicopathologic variables of progressive disease. A potential role for Snail in regulating Maspin expression is suggested based on the finding of negative association between Snail and Maspin expression in prostatic adenocarcinoma.

Estimation of maspin's subcellular localization in invasive ductal breast cancer via light microscopy and computerized image analysis: a comparative study

PURPOSE

Contradictory results have been reported concerning the role of maspin and its cellular distribution in breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to examine the subcellular localization (nuclear-cytoplasmic) of maspin in breast cancer and to compare the evaluation of maspin immunostaining via light microscopy (LM) to the estimation via computerized image analysis (CIA) system. We also examined correlations between maspin expression and several clinicopathological parameters.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 48 primary invasive ductal carcinomas (IDC) of the breast. Maspin immunostaining was quantified and graded via LM by two pathologists, separately in the nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments. Total maspin expression was also estimated via CIA system. Univariate non-parametric statistics and stepwise multivariate ordinal logistic regression were performed.

RESULTS

Both maspin components (nuclear and cytoplasmic) were closely associated with each other (p<0.001). Total maspin score was positively and closely associated with nuclear maspin (p<0.001) and cytoplasmic maspin (p<0.001). Total maspin , nuclear maspin and cytoplasmic maspin did not correlate significantly with either age, grade, T, N and M status, stage, micro vessel density (MVD) (CD34), ki-67, p53, estrogen receptor (ER) and HER-2 status, or with any of the 4 groups of the molecular classification. The only factor that showed a borderline inverse correlation with nuclear maspin (p=0.059) was progesterone receptors (PR) positivity.

CONCLUSION

The cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions of maspin seem to be closely interwoven. Evidently, both mutually intertwined counterparts were independently reflected upon the total maspin levels measured by CIA. Future studies should ideally encompass all three approaches (nuclear, cytoplasmic, total) adopted herein.

Analysis of protein expression profile of oral squamous cell carcinoma by MALDI-TOF-MS

In this study, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) technology was used to examine differentially expressed proteins in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues from Norway (n=15) and the UK (n=45). Twenty-nine proteins were found to be significantly overexpressed in the OSCCs examined compared to the normal controls. Identified proteins included, family of annexin proteins that play important roles in signal transduction pathways and regulation of cellular growth, keratin-1, heat-shock proteins (HSP), squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC-Ag), cytoskeleton proteins, and proteins involved in mitochondrial and intracellular signalling pathways. The expression of four selected proteins (annexin II and V, HSP-27, and SCC-Ag) was verified using western blot analysis of 76 fresh tissue biopsy specimens in total, from Norway (n=53) and the UK (n=23). Proteomic analysis of OSCCs examined here demonstrated involvement of several proteins that might function as potential biomarkers and molecular targets for early cancer diagnostics, and may contribute to a novel approach to therapeutics and for predicting prognosis of OSCC.

Practical value of the new system for Maspin assessment, in colorectal cancer

Maspin is a serine protease which belongs to the serpin family and seems to play an important role in inhibiting angiogenesis and tumor proliferation. The significance of its expression in colorectal cancer (CRC) has not been elucidated so far. In our study, we tried to identify, based on Maspin expression, four groups of CRC, with possible prognostic impact. In 121 CRC, we analyzed the Maspin expression in correlation with the clinico-pathological features, microsatellite status and other markers such as p53, bax, bcl-2, VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) and CD31. Based on the percentage and intensity of Maspin expression in the tumor cells, the cases were grouped in four classes: negative, with cytoplasmic predominance, nuclear predominated, and cases with mixed (cytoplasmic-nuclear) expression. 9% of the cases were negative, 44% presented cytoplasmic predominance, the nuclear predominance was revealed in 24% of the cases, and the other 23% of CRC having a mixed Maspin positivity. The cytoplasmic predominance was correlated with a better prognosis, p53 negativity, bax positivity, and lack of tumor budding. Forty percent of microsatellite instable (MSI) cases presented mixed expression, this pattern being also related to a lower angiogenesis. Nuclear predominance was associated with p53 positivity, the lowest survival rate and intense VEGF expression. In conclusion, CRC with cytoplasmic predominance and mixed Maspin expression seems to present better prognosis whereas nuclear predominance is connected with high aggressivity.

[Correlation between vaspin concentration and insulin sensitivity in the visceral adipose tissue of young obese rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the correlation between visceral adipose tissue-derived serine protease inhibitor (vaspin) concentration and insulin sensitivity in the visceral adipose tissue of young obese Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats.

METHODS

Twenty-four SD rats which had been weaned 3 weeks before were randomly divided into two groups (n=12 each) to receive a high-fat and normal diet. The weight and abdominal circumference (AC) of each rat were measured, the fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and fasting insulin (FINS) in blood from the angular vein were measured after 12 hours of fasting and blood glucose (BG) and insulin (INS) levels in blood from the angular vein were measured at 60 and 120 minutes after intraperitoneal injection of 50% glucose (2 g/kg). The rats were sacrificed, and their liver and visceral adipose tissue were weighed. The vaspin concentration of the visceral adipose tissue in each rat was measured using ELISA. Correlation analysis was performed on the vaspin concentration and other indices.

RESULTS

Compared with the normal diet group, the high-fat diet group showed significantly higher weight, AC, weight of visceral adipose tissue, FPG, FINS, 120 minute INS level, vaspin concentration, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and homeostasis model assessment of β cell function (HOMA-β) (P<0.05) Insulin sensitivity index (ISI) was significantly lower (P<0.01). Vaspin concentration was positively correlated with visceral adipose tissue and liver weight, AC, 120 minute INS level, FPG, FINS, HOMA-IR and HOMA-β (P<0.05), and negatively correlated with ISI (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

High expression of vaspin is associated with insulin resistance in young obese SD rats. Vaspin is presumably an adipocytokine that can increase insulin sensitivity, promote insulin secretion by islet β-cells and improve glucose tolerance, and it may be involved in insulin resistance and the disturbance of carbohydrate metabolism.

Small interference RNA targeting vascular endothelial growth factor gene effectively attenuates retinal neovascularization in mice model

BACKGROUND

The mechanism of retinal neovascularization is not understood completely. Many growth factors are involved in the process of retinal neovascularization, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and pigment epithelium-deprived factor (PEDF), which are the representatives of angiogenic and antiangiogenic molecules respectively. Oxygen induced retinopathy (OIR) is a useful model to investigate retinal neovascularization. The present study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of small interference RNA (siRNA) targeting VEGF gene in attenuating oxygen induced retinopathy (OIR) by regulating VEGF to PEDF ratio (VEGF/PEDF).

METHODS

In vitro, cultured EOMA cells were transfected with VEGF-siRNA (psi-HI(TM)/EGFP/VEGF siRNA) and Lipofectamine(TM) 2000 for 24, 48, and 72 hours, respectively. Expression of VEGF mRNA was evaluated by real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and the level of VEGF protein was analyzed by Western blotting. In vivo, OIR model mice were established, the mice (C57BL/6J) received an intra-vitreal injection of 1 µl of mixture of psi-HI(TM)/EGFP/VEGF siRNA and Lipofectamine 2000. Expressions of retinal VEGF and PEDF protein were measured by Western blotting, retinal neovascularization was observed by fluorescein angiography, and quantified.

RESULTS

In vitro psi-HI(TM)/EGFP/VEGF siRNA treatment significantly reduced VEGF mRNA and protein expression. In vivo, with decreased VEGF and VEGF-PEDF ratio, significant attenuation of neovascular tufts, avascular regions, tortuous, and dilated blood vessels were observed in the interfered animals.

CONCLUSIONS

VEGF plays an important role in OIR, and the transfection of VEGF-siRNA can effectively downregulate VEGF expression in vivo, accompanied by the downregulation of VEGF-PEDF ratio, and simultaneous attenuation of retinal neovascularization was also observed. These findings suggest that VEGF/PEDF may serve as a potential target in the treatment of retinal neovascularization and RNA interference targeting VEGF expression, which represents a possible therapeutic strategy.

Serum vaspin concentrations are closely related to insulin resistance, and rs77060950 at SERPINA12 genetically defines distinct group with higher serum levels in Japanese population

CONTEXT

Vaspin is an adipokine with insulin-sensitizing effects identified from visceral adipose tissues of genetically obese rats.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated genetic and nongenetic factors that define serum concentrations of vaspin.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Vaspin levels were measured with RIA in Japanese subjects with normal fasting plasma glucose (NFG; n = 259) and type 2 diabetes patients (T2D; n = 275). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) at SERPINA12 (vaspin) gene locus were discovered, and five SNP were genotyped in the subjects with varied body mass index (n = 1138).

RESULTS

The level of serum vaspin in 93% of the samples was found to vary from 0.2 to nearly 2 ng/ml in NFG subjects (n = 259) and from 0.2 to nearly 3 ng/ml in T2D patients (n = 275) (Vaspin(Low) group), whereas a significant subpopulation (7%) in both groups displayed much higher levels of 10-40 ng/ml (Vaspin(High) group). In the Vaspin(Low) group, serum vaspin levels in T2D were significantly higher than healthy subjects (0.99 ± 0.04 vs. 0.86 ± 0.02 ng/ml; P < 0.01). Both in T2D and genotyped Japanese population, serum vaspin levels closely correlated with homeostasis model of assessment for insulin resistance rather than anthropometric parameters. By genotyping, rs77060950 tightly linked to serum vaspin levels, i.e. CC (0.6 ± 0.4 ng/ml), CA (18.4 ± 9.6 ng/ml), and AA (30.5 ± 5.1 ng/ml) (P < 2 × 10(-16)). Putative GATA-2 and GATA-3 binding consensus site was found at rs77060950.

CONCLUSIONS

Serum vaspin levels were related to insulin resistance, and higher levels of serum vaspin in 7% of the Japanese population are closely linked to minor allele sequence (A) of rs77060950.

Tissue specific expression and estrogen regulation of SERPINB3 in the chicken oviduct

Serine protease inhibitors (SERPINs) comprise the largest superfamily of protease inhibitors and appear to be ubiquitously expressed in a variety of species. Of these, squamous cell carcinoma antigen 1 (SCCA1), also known as a SERPINB3, was first identified in squamous cell carcinoma tissue from the cervix of women. However, there is little known about the expression and hormonal regulation of SERPINB3 in chickens. Therefore, the avian SERPINB3 gene was compared with those of other species with respect to structure, phylogenetic evolution and tissue- and cell-specific expression in hens. Chicken SERPINB3 has moderate homology to mammalian SERPINB3 proteins (36-47%). Of particular note, SERPINB3 mRNA was most abundant in the chicken oviduct and cell-specific expression was in glandular (GE) and luminal (LE) epithelial cells of the oviduct of laying hens. Treatment of young chicks with DES (diethylstilbestrol, a synthetic nonsteroidal estrogen) induced SERPINB3 mRNA and protein in GE and LE, but not in other cell types of the oviduct. Western blot analyses determined that immunoreactive SERPINB3 protein was also increased by DES in LE and GE of the oviduct of chicks. Collectively, these results indicate that SERPINB3 is an estrogen-induced gene expressed only in LE and GE of the chicken oviduct and implicate SERPINB3 in regulation of oviduct development and egg formation.

Role of adipocytokines in predicting the development of diabetes and its late complications

Diabetes is an important health problem since the incidence of diabetes is continuously increasing. Early diagnosis is important as type 2 diabetes begins long before we diagnose it, leading to a complicated course of the disease. In order to prevent delay in the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, novel predictors and pathways for type 2 diabetes are mounting. Diabetic complications are common cause of morbidity and mortality among subjects with diabetes. In the pathogenesis of diabetic complications some factors other than chronic hyperglycemia may be involved. Adipocytokines play important roles in the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, and associated metabolic conditions such as hypertension and dyslipidemia. The investigations on the role of adipocytokines in developing diabetes and its complications have been made. In this review, we discussed the implications of adipocytokines in predicting diabetes and diabetic complications, with particular attention on the roles of adiponectin, leptin, visfatin, and vaspin.

Endopin serpin protease inhibitors localize with neuropeptides in secretory vesicles and neuroendocrine tissues

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The endopin serpin protease inhibitors have been identified by molecular studies as components of secretory vesicles that produce neuropeptides. Endopin 1 inhibits trypsin-like serine proteases, and endopin 2 inhibits cathepsin L that produces neuropeptides in secretory vesicles. To assess the secretory vesicle and neuroendocrine tissue distribution of these endopins, the goal of this study was to define specific antisera for each endopin isoform and to examine their localization with neuropeptides and in neuroendocrine tissues.

METHODS

This study utilized methods consisting of Western blots, immunoelectron microscopy, and immunofluorescence microscopy for evaluation of the localization of endopin protease inhibitors in neuroendocrine tissues.

RESULTS

Immunoelectron microscopy with these selective antisera demonstrated the localization of endopins 1 and 2 within secretory vesicles of adrenal medulla (bovine). Cellular immunofluorescence confocal microscopy illustrated the high level of colocalization of endopins 1 and 2 with enkephalin and NPY neuropeptides that are present in secretory vesicles of adrenal medullary chromaffin cells in primary culture. Tissue distribution studies (by Western blots) showed the expression of endopins 1 and 2 in bovine brain, pituitary, adrenal medulla, and other neuroendocrine tissues.

CONCLUSIONS

These results implicate endopins 1 and 2 as endogenous protease inhibitors in neuropeptide-containing secretory vesicles and neuroendocrine tissues.

EGF stimulates Cdc42-dependent translocation of SCC antigen to the plasma membrane

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) antigen, including intracellular serine protease inhibitors, is widely used as a laboratory marker for cancers of squamous cell origin. Clinical evidences suggest that increased tissue-expression of SCC antigen predicts an invasive phenotype of cancer cells. Herein, we demonstrated that over-expression of SCC antigen increased the rate of EGF-stimulated cell migration. In the search for the underlying molecular mechanism, we have discovered that SCC antigen was translocated to the plasma membrane upon EGF stimulation and co-localized with polymerized-actin at lamellipodia. We further showed that, co-expression of Cdc42, a downstream target of the EGF receptor, enhanced translocation of the SCC antigen, while co-expression of dominant-inhibitory Cdc42 diminished its translocation. These results suggest that EGF-Cdc42 signal regulates the translocation of SCC antigen to the plasma membrane. Lamellipodia at the leading edge might be a site of action of SCC antigen.

The intracellular accumulation of polymeric neuroserpin explains the severity of the dementia FENIB

Familial encephalopathy with neuroserpin inclusion bodies (FENIB) is an autosomal dominant dementia that is characterized by the retention of polymers of neuroserpin as inclusions within the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of neurons. We have developed monoclonal antibodies that detect polymerized neuroserpin and have used COS-7 cells, stably transfected PC12 cell lines and transgenic Drosophila melanogaster to characterize the cellular handling of all four mutant forms of neuroserpin that cause FENIB. We show a direct correlation between the severity of the disease-causing mutation and the accumulation of neuroserpin polymers in cell and fly models of the disease. Moreover, mutant neuroserpin causes locomotor deficits in the fly allowing us to demonstrate a direct link between polymer accumulation and neuronal toxicity.

Immunohistochemical detection of uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and maspin in ameloblastic tumors

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the roles of extracellular matrix (ECM)-degrading serine proteinase in progression of odontogenic tumors, expression of urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), uPA receptor (uPAR), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and maspin was analyzed in ameloblastic tumors as well as in tooth germs.

METHODS

Tissue specimens of 10 tooth germs, 45 ameloblastomas, and 5 malignant ameloblastic tumors were examined immunohistochemically with the use of antibodies against uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and maspin.

RESULTS

Immunohistochemical reactivity for uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and maspin was detected in normal and neoplastic odontogenic tissues: uPA was recognized predominantly in mesenchymal cells, uPAR was evident in epithelial cells, PAI-1 was found in both epithelial and mesenchymal cells, and maspin was expressed only in epithelial cells. The levels of uPA and uPAR immunoreactivity in ameloblastic tumors were slightly higher than the levels in tooth germs, while PAI-1 reactivity in ameloblastomas tended to be lower than that in tooth germs. The level of maspin immunoreactivity in ameloblastomas was significantly higher than that in tooth germs, and ameloblastic carcinoma showed decreased maspin reactivity.

CONCLUSION

Expression of uPA, uPAR, PAI-1, and maspin in tooth germs and ameloblastic tumors suggests that interactions among these molecules contribute to ECM degradation and cell migration during tooth development and tumor progression. Altered expression of the serine proteinase and its associated molecules in ameloblastic tumors may be involved in oncogenesis of odontogenic epithelium.

Establishment of a sandwich ELISA for human megsin, a kidney-specific serine protease inhibitor

BACKGROUND

We previously identified a novel serine protease inhibitor (serpin), megsin, which is predominantly expressed in the kidney. Megsin expression is up-regulated in human and experimental renal diseases associated with mesangial proliferation and expansion, suggesting that urinary megsin may be a novel diagnostic marker for some renal diseases.

METHODS

We established a specific and sensitive sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for megsin and measured urinary megsin of patients with various renal diseases.

RESULTS

Megsin ELISA specifically detected megsin but not other serpins. The detection limit was 0.04 ng/ml, which allowed detection of urinary megsin in 3.6% of healthy individuals. The antigenic epitope in the urine detected by the ELISA was confirmed as megsin protein by time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Among patients with rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (n = 18), 55.6% were urinary megsin-positive, while 24.1% in IgA nephropathy (n = 112) and 15.1% in chronic non-IgA glomerulonephritis (n = 245) were urinary megsin-positive, respectively. Among patients with chronic renal failure due to unknown causes (n = 74), 18.9% were positive for urinary megsin. In diabetic patients with or without nephropathy (n = 1073), 12.3% were urinary megsin-positive, while positivity of urinary megsin in patients with non-renal diseases (n = 768) was equivalent (3.3%) to that of healthy individuals. Of note, when urinary megsin-positive patients with diabetic nephropathy (n = 71) were classified into four stages by their proteinuria and estimated glomerular filtration rate, urinary megsin excretion increased as the stage progressed up to stage 3A, suggesting correlation of that with mesangial expansion level. Urinary megsin decreased in the advanced stage, probably reflecting development of glomerulosclerosis.

CONCLUSION

We established a high-sensitive megsin ELISA, which detects urinary megsin in some patients with renal diseases and in only a few healthy subjects. Megsin ELISA may be a novel diagnostic tool for renal diseases.

Retinal Mueller Glial Cells Trigger the Hallmark Inflammatory Process in Autoimmune Uveitis

Spontaneous equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is an incurable autoimmune disease affecting the eye. Although retinal-autoantigen specific T-helper 1 cells have been demonstrated to trigger disease progression and relapses, the molecular processes leading to retinal degeneration and consequent blindness remain unknown. To elucidate such processes, we studied changes in the total retinal proteome of ERU-diseased horses compared to healthy controls. Severe changes in the retinal proteome were found for several markers for blood-retinal barrier breakdown and whose emergence depended upon disease severity. Additionally, uveitic changes in the retina were accompanied by upregulation of aldose 1-epimerase, selenium-binding protein 1, alpha crystallin A chain, phosphatase 2A inhibitor (SET), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), the latter indicating an involvement of retinal Mueller glial cells (RMG) in disease process. To confirm this, we screened for additional RMG-specific markers and could demonstrate that, in uveitic retinas, RMG concomitantly upregulate vimentin and GFAP and downregulate glutamine synthetase. These expression patterns suggest for an activated state of RMG, which further downregulate the expression of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) and begin expressing interferon-gamma, a pro-inflammatory cytokine typical for T-helper 1 cells. We thus propose that RMG may play a fatal role in uveitic disease progression by directly triggering inflammatory processes through the expression and secretion of interferon-gamma.

Altered protein expression at early-stage rat hepatic neoplasia

Protein expression patterns were analyzed in a rat model of hepatic neoplasia to detect changes reflecting biological mechanism or potential therapeutic targets. The rat resistant hepatocyte model of carcinogenesis was studied, with a focus on the earliest preneoplastic lesion visible in the liver, the preneoplastic hyperplastic nodule. Expression differences were shown by two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and image analysis. Polypeptide masses were measured by peptide mass fingerprinting using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) and their sequences were obtained by tandem mass spectrometry. Alterations in expression of cytoskeletal and functional proteins were demonstrated, consistent with biological changes known to occur in the preneoplastic cells. Of particular interest was the differential expression of a serine protease inhibitor (serpin) with a role implicated in angiogenesis. Serpin, implicated in the inhibition of angiogenesis, is present in normal liver but has greatly reduced expression at the preneoplastic stage of liver cancer development. Immunofluorescence microscopy with antibodies to this serpin, kallistatin, supports the proteomic identification. Immunofluorescence microscopy with antibodies to the blood vessel marker von Willebrand factor provides evidence for neovascularization in the liver containing multiple preneoplastic nodules. These observations suggest that at an early stage of liver carcinogenesis reduction or loss of angiogenesis inhibitors may contribute to initiation of neoangiogenesis. A number of other identified proteins known to be associated with hepatomas are also present at early-stage neoplasia.

Prognostic significance of maspin expression in human gastric adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Maspin is a member of the serpin family of protease inhibitors known to have tumor suppressor activity. However, molecular aspects in carcinogenesis and progression of gastric cancer remain largely unclear. Previously we reported for the first time that maspin is induced in the course of gastric carcinogenesis. In the present study we evaluated maspin induction in gastric adenocarcinoma in relation to a number of clinicopathologic feature.

METHODOLOGY

Maspin expression was examined by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemical staining in 82 cases of gastric adenocarcinoma.

RESULTS

In Western blot analysis, gastric specimens of tumor showed increased maspin expression compared with corresponding normal tissues in 54 of 82 patients (66%). Tumor shows increased maspin expression compared with normal tissue in 81.1% of stage IV patients and 83.3% of N3 patients. The frequency of maspin induction was associated with the stage of gastric cancer (p = 0.01) and lymph node metastasis (p = 0.03). There was no significant association between maspin induction and Helicobacter pylori infection.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that maspin may have an important role in the progression and metastasis of gastric adenocarcinoma.

Positive correlation of pigment epithelium-derived factor and total antioxidant capacity in aqueous humour of patients with uveitis and proliferative diabetic retinopathy

BACKGROUND/AIMS

There are several animal studies to suggest that pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) may exert beneficial effects on diabetic retinopathy and uveitis by acting as an endogenous antioxidant. However, the interrelationship between PEDF and total antioxidant capacity in the human eye remains to be elucidated. In this study, PEDF and total antioxidant levels were determined in the aqueous humour of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and uveitis, and the relationship between these two markers was investigated.

METHODS

Aqueous humour levels of PEDF and total antioxidant capacity were determined by an ELISA system in 34 uveitis and 9 PDR samples.

RESULTS

Aqueous humour levels of PEDF and total antioxidant capacity were significantly lower in patients with PDR than those with uveitis (1.8+/-0.2 microg/ml vs 6.4+/-0.8 microg/ml and 0.17+/-0.03 mmol/l vs 0.85+/-0.05 mmol/l, respectively, p<0.01). A positive correlation between PEDF and total antioxidant capacity was found in patients with PDR and uveitis (r = 0.33, p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that PEDF levels were associated with total antioxidant capacity in aqueous humour levels in humans. These observations suggest that substitution of PEDF may be a therapeutic target for oxidative stress-involved eye diseases, especially PDR.

Maspin is Useful in the Distinction of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma From Chronic Pancreatitis

Maspin, a member of the serpin family of serine protease inhibitors, has been shown to limit invasion and metastases in breast and prostate carcinomas. Maspin gene expression is up-regulated in pancreatic cancer, but not in normal pancreatic tissue. Maspin expression has been documented using immunohistochemical studies in pancreatic adenocarcinoma and high-grade intraductal dysplasia. We studied pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas and chronic pancreatitis utilizing tissue microarray technology to determine the utility of maspin in differentiating these lesions. Immunohistochemistry was performed on tissue microarrays made from 72 cases of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma and 24 cases of chronic pancreatitis. Carcinomas were graded as well, moderately, or poorly differentiated using the WHO criteria. The primary antibody used was monoclonal antimaspin antibody (clone G167-70, 1:800, PharMingen, San Diego, CA). Nuclear and/or cytoplasmic staining for maspin was qualitatively scored from 1 + to 3 + based on intensity. Cases were considered positive if one or more cores demonstrated staining. Cases of chronic pancreatitis showed focal, weak (1 + to 2 +) staining within occasional benign ductal epithelial cells in 29% of cases (7/24). Diffuse and intense (3 +) staining was present in ducts with squamous metaplasia (3 cases). The majority of ducts showed no staining. Ductal adenocarcinomas showed diffuse staining in 91% (66/72) of cases with generally more intense staining than cases of chronic pancreatitis. Maspin may be helpful in differentiating ductal adenocarcinoma from chronic pancreatitis, once squamous metaplasia is ruled out.

Maspin expression in early oral tongue cancer and its relation to expression of mutant-type p53 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)

Even though oral tongue cancer is generally diagnosed at an early stage, the prognosis is poor due to frequent recurrence. Therefore, it is important to identify factors predictive of recurrence and to treat aggressively those patients with a high probability of recurrence. The relationship between angiogenesis and recurrence in tongue cancer has been widely investigated but no consensus has been reached. Mutant-type p53 and VEGF are known to be related to angiogenesis, and maspin is a potent angiogenic inhibitor but its role in tongue cancer has scarcely been examined. We observed the expression of maspin, mutant-type p53 and VEGF by immunohistochemistry in 33 patients with stages I and II oral tongue cancer. And the relationships between maspin, mutant-type p53, VEGF expression and recurrence were analyzed. Maspin and VEGF displayed a cytoplasmic staining pattern and mutant-type p53 a nuclear pattern. None of expression of maspin, mutant-type p53, and VEGF was significantly correlated with tumor recurrence (p=0.34, 0.56, and 0.33, respectively) and survival. Maspin expression was negatively correlated with both mutant-type p53 expression (p=0.02), and VEGF expression (p=0.01). There was no correlation between age, sex, clinical staging, and recurrence. In conclusion, the expression of maspin is not related to recurrence of early stage oral tongue cancer. It is inversely correlated with that of mutant-type p53 and of VEGF, suggesting that the maspin gene is a mutant-type p53 target in vivo and may contribute to regulate VEGF expression.

Identification of a novel targeting sequence for regulated secretion in the serine protease inhibitor neuroserpin

Ns (neuroserpin) is a member of the serpin (serine protease inhibitor) gene family that is primarily expressed within the central nervous system. Its principal target protease is tPA (tissue plasminogen activator), which is thought to contribute to synaptic plasticity and to be secreted in a stimulus-dependent manner. In the present study, we demonstrate in primary neuronal cultures that Ns co-localizes in LDCVs (large dense core vesicles) with the regulated secretory protein chromogranin B. We also show that Ns secretion is regulated and can be specifically induced 4-fold by secretagogue treatment. A novel 13-amino-acid sorting signal located at the C-terminus of Ns is identified that is both necessary and sufficient to target Ns to the regulated secretion pathway. Its deletion renders Ns no longer responsive to secretagogue stimulation, whereas PAI-Ns [Ns (neuroserpin)-PAI-1 (plasminogen activator inhibitor-1) chimaera appending the last 13 residues of Ns sequence to the C-terminus of PAI-1] shifts PAI-1 secretion into a regulated secretory pathway.

Positive association of pigment epithelium-derived factor with total antioxidant capacity in the vitreous fluid of patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy

BACKGROUND

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a glycoprotein with potent neuronal differentiating activity, was recently found to inhibit advanced glycation end product (AGE)-induced retinal hyperpermeability and angiogenesis through its antioxidative properties, suggesting that it may exert beneficial effects on diabetic retinopathy by acting as an endogenous antioxidant. However, the inter-relationship between PEDF and total antioxidant capacity in the eye remains to be elucidated.

AIMS

To determine vitreous PEDF and total antioxidant levels in patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), and to investigate the relationship between them.

METHODS

Vitreous levels of PEDF and total antioxidant capacity were measured by an ELISA in 39 eyes of 36 patients with diabetes and PDR and in 29 eyes of 29 controls without diabetes.

RESULTS

Vitreous levels of total antioxidant capacity were significantly lower in patients with diabetes and PDR than in controls (mean (SD) 0.16 (0.05) vs 0.24 (0.09) mmol/l, respectively, p<0.001). PEDF levels correlated positively with total antioxidant status in the vitreous of patients with PDR (r = 0.37, p<0.05) and in controls (r = 0.41, p<0.05). Further, vitreous levels of PEDF in patients with PDR without vitreous haemorrhage (VH(-)) were significantly (p<0.05) decreased, compared with those in the controls or in patients with PDR with vitreous haemorrhage (VH(+); PDR VH(-), 4.5 (1.1) microg/ml; control, 7.4 (4.1) microg/ml; PDR VH(+) 8.5 (3.6) microg/ml).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that PEDF levels are associated with total antioxidant capacity of vitreous fluid in humans, and suggests that PEDF may act as an endogenous antioxidant in the eye and could play a protective role against PDR.

Protective immunity against Ixodes ricinus induced by a salivary serpin

Iris is a specific elastase inhibitor expressed in the salivary glands of the hard tick Ixodes ricinus. It belongs to the superfamily of serpins and interferes with both haemostasis and the immune response of the host. In this study, we first show that Iris is expressed in nymphs but not in the female midgut nor in males. We also show that Iris is present in the saliva. To examine its potency as anti-tick vaccine candidate, we set up three models of I. ricinus infestation on immunized animals: nymphs on mice, and adults and nymphs on rabbits. We report the rise of neutralizing antibodies following immunization of rabbits and mice. This comes with a significant protective immunity against ticks in rabbits only, resulting in a 30% mortality rate and a diminution of weight gain in both nymphs and adults and a prolongation of blood feeding time in adults. This is the first report on an anti-tick vaccine trial on I. ricinus using a protein able to interact with both host immunity and haemostasis, as a vaccinating antigen.

An Effective Biological Marker to Detect Oral Squamous Cancer Cells

A variety of techniques have been employed for the detection of tumor cells in the lymph nodes of patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Molecular analysis has been applied to detect metastases and several reports have presented examinations of tumor markers, but no target gene that is completely reliable as a molecular biological tumor marker has been found. This study investigated whether a marker exists that is effective to detect OSCC. A total of 134 samples (biopsy and surgical specimens) from 102 OSCC patients were analyzed. Expression patterns of Cytokeratin (CK) 10, 17, 19 and SCCA mRNA in the normal oral mucosa and OSCC samples were examined using RT-PCR. Statistical analyses showed that significant differences existed in expressions of CK 10, 17, 19 and SCCA between OSCC and the normal mucosa (p<0.05). No correlation was observed between the degrees of histological differentiation of the tumor and CK 17 expression. The CK 17 expression also showed no significant differences depending on sites of primary tumors. Among the CK 10, 17, 19 and SCCA investigated, only CK 17 showed high sensitivity and negative predictive value (NPV). CK 17 might be a good biomarker because of the performance of RT-PCR in detecting mRNA of CK 17 with such high sensitivity and NPV. Further studies using a larger number of OSCC patients and other CKs should be undertaken to establish CK 17 as a useful biomarker.

Maspin: the new frontier

Maspin (mammary serine protease inhibitor) was identified in 1994 by subtractive hybridization analysis of normal mammary tissue and breast cancer cell lines. Subsequently, emerging evidence portrays maspin as a multifaceted protein, interacting with diverse group of intercellular and extracellular proteins, regulating cell adhesion, motility, apoptosis, and angiogenesis and critically involved in mammary gland development. The tissue-specific expression of maspin is epigenetically controlled, and aberrant methylation of maspin promoter is closely associated with maspin gene silencing. Identification of new tissue sites expressing maspin and novel maspin-binding partners has expanded the horizon for maspin research and promises maspin-based therapeutic approaches for combating cancer. This perspective briefly outlines the past and present strides in deciphering this unique molecule and speculates on new frontiers in maspin research and prospects of maspin as a diagnostic/prognostic indicator in cancer.

Positive correlation between pigment epithelium-derived factor and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 levels in the aqueous humour of patients with uveitis

AIM

To evaluate whether aqueous humour levels of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) are associated with monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in patients with uveitis.

METHODS

Aqueous humour levels of MCP-1 and PEDF were determined by ELISA in 34 uveitis samples and 9 cataract control samples.

RESULTS

Aqueous humour MCP-1 and PEDF levels were significantly higher in patients with infectious or non-infectious uveitis than in controls (mean (SD) 32.3 (10.7) ng/ml vs 4.48 (1.10) ng/ml vs 0.47 (0.10) ng/ml, and 8.40 (1.30) microg/ml vs 5.01 (0.92) microg/ml vs 1.32 (0.22) microg/ml, respectively, p<0.001). A positive correlation between PEDF and MCP-1 was found in patients with uveitis (r = 0.39, p<0.01).

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrated that aqueous humour levels of PEDF were positively associated with MCP-1 in patients with uveitis. The present observations suggest that aqueous humour levels of PEDF may be a marker of inflammation in uveitis.

Noninvasive Prenatal Detection of Fetal Trisomy 18 by Epigenetic Allelic Ratio Analysis in Maternal Plasma: Theoretical and Empirical Considerations

Background: The discovery of cell-free fetal DNA in maternal plasma has opened up new possibilities for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis. However, the use of maternal plasma fetal DNA for the direct detection of fetal chromosomal aneuploidies has not been reported. We postulate that the aneuploidy status of a fetus could be revealed by an epigenetic allelic ratio approach, i.e., by analyzing the allelic ratio of a single-base variation present within DNA molecules exhibiting a placental-specific epigenetic signature in maternal plasma.

Methods: Placental-derived fetal-specific unmethylated maspin (SERPINB5) promoter sequences on human chromosome 18 were detectable in placental–maternal DNA mixtures and in maternal plasma by bisulfite modification followed by methylation-specific PCR (MSP) and primer extension. The ratios between the extension products of the 2 alleles were calculated for heterozygous placentas, placental–maternal blood cell DNA mixtures, and maternal plasma samples. The allelic ratios were compared between pregnancies carrying trisomy 18 and euploid fetuses.

Results: The epigenetic allelic ratios of all tested trisomy 18 samples deviated from the reference range obtained from euploid samples (placental DNA, 1.135 to 2.052; placental–maternal DNA mixtures, 1.170 to 1.985; maternal plasma, 0.330 to 3.044; without skew correction on the raw mass spectrometric data). A theoretical model was established and validated that predicted that a minimum of 200 copies of genomic DNA after bisulfite conversion were required for distinguishing euploid and aneuploid fetuses with confidence.

Conclusion: Epigenetic allelic ratio analysis of maternal plasma DNA represents a promising approach for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of fetal chromosomal aneuploidies.

Pigment epithelium-derived factor promotes neurite outgrowth of retinal cells

The ability of pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) to promote neurite outgrowth of retinal cells through mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways was examined. Neurite outgrowth effects of PEDF were determined by quantifying the neurite length extending from cultured chick embryo retinal explants, and neurite outgrowth ratio of R28 cells (a neural cell line derived from the neonatal rat retina). MAPK activity levels were determined by inhibition assays. The contribution of signaling pathway was quantified with a specific inhibitor for MAPK: PD98059. PEDF (50 ng/ml) promoted chick retinal neurite elongation and increased the extent of R28 cell neurite outgrowth. PD98059 decreased neurite elongation of chicken retinal explants and the extent of R28 cell neurite outgrowth. PEDF possibly promotes neurite outgrowth for retinal cells by activating MAPK pathways. These data suggest that PEDF provides a useful support for retinal cells through the MAPK pathway and leads to the progress of therapy for many retinal diseases.

Role of an estrogen-upregulated 64.0-kDa uterine fluid glycoprotein in improving fertility in women

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the significance of an estrogen-upregulated 64.0-kDa human uterine fluid (hUF) glycoprotein in relation to promotion of fertility.

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

Department of Assisted Reproductive Biology Unit, Institute of Reproductive Medicine, Kolkata. India.

PATIENT(S)

Sixty-three women with unexplained infertility having normal ovulatory cycle with normal endocrine profile and 18 parous women.

INTERVENTION(S)

Women either received no stimulation (n = 35) or were stimulated with clomiphene citrate (CC) alone (100 mg/day from day 3 to day 7; n = 56) or in combination with pure FSH (75 IU on day 3 and day 8; n = 54) and were subjected to IUI. Parous women (n = 18) receiving no treatment served as control and were followed-up for spontaneous ovulation.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Uterine fluid protein profile, relative intensity of 64.0-kDa protein, number of mature follicles, endometrial thickness, and pregnancy.

RESULT(S)

Expression of the 64.0-kDa protein exhibited positive correlation with prevailing estradiol levels, but the degree of the protein response to estrogen was comparatively blunted in the CC-incorporated cycles. Endometrial thickness and pregnancy outcomes correlated positively with the expression of the protein.

CONCLUSION(S)

The 64.0-kDa hUF protein perhaps plays a role in endometrial receptivity to support pregnancy. Failure of pregnancy despite documented ovulation in CC-stimulated cycles may be due to its attenuating effects on expression of the protein.