[Traumatic facial nerve injury in rabbits: a quantitative pathologic study]

Six kinds of facial nerve injury in 136 facial nerves of 68 rabbits were studied by quantitative pathology. The ratio of intrafascicular axon crossing and the ratio of intrafascicular area can reflect the extent of the lesions for non-cut injury (exposure, compression, stretch and crush) effectively. However, the ratio of mesial to distal intrafascicular area should be combined for the evaluation of cut injury (division and anastomosis). The mean optical density (F1), axon area (F13), and homogeneous degree (F49) can reflect quantitatively the form and extent of the single axon lesion and its content. The morphologic parameter (F10) can reflect the change of axon morphology. The results of quantitative pathologic study support the histopathologic study, and provide additional knowledge about the progress of serial axon lesions.

A dynamic and quantitative study of pattern visual evoked potentials and gamma-aminobutyric acid neurones in the lateral geniculate nucleus and the visual cortex of monocular deprivation cats

PURPOSE

To assess the effects of monocular lid closure during critical period on cortical activity.

METHOD

Pattern visual evoked potentials (PVEP) of the normal and the monocular deprivation (MD) cats were dynamically measured and the number of gammaaminobutyric acid immunopositive (GABA-IP) neurones of the area 17 of the visual cortex and the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) was quantitatively compared by using immunohistochemical method (ABC).

RESULTS

The amplitude of the N1-P1 attenuated in deprived eyes (DE), NE/DE at postnatal week (PNW) 7-8 (P < 0.05), NE/DE at PNW 15-16 (P < 0.01); while P1 latency delayed, NE/DE at PNW 7-8 (P > 0.05), NE/DE at PNW 15-16 (P< 0.05). The numbers of GABA-IP neurones in layer A1 of the ipsilateral LGN and in layer A of the contralateral LGN, compared to those in the corresponding normal laminae, were not significant at PNW 7-8 and PNW 11-12 (P > 0.05), while in the same cats a reduction in the number of GABA-IP neurones was found in layer IV of area 17 at PNW 11-12 (P < 0.05). However, with longer survival of 3-4 weeks in duration, the numbers of GABA-IP neurones in the deprived laminae of LGN were remarkably reduced (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The amplitude of N1-P1 components is sensitive to the effects of monocular deprivation. Monocular deprivation in cats during critical period leads to dramatic changes of the number of GABA-IP neurones in the LGN and cortical layer IV receiving inputs from the deprived eye in cats. The deprivation-induced reduction in GABA-IP neurones is delayed in the LGN compared with the visual cortex. PVEP of the MD cats is consistent with the damage of its GABA system in visual cortex.

Protective effect of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist on oleic acid-induced lung injury

OBJECTIVE

To observe the changes of interleukin-1 (IL-1), nitric oxide (NO) and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in mice with oleic acid-induced acute lung injury (ALI) and the protective effects of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Male Kunming mice were divided into control, oleic acid and IL-1ra groups. The control group mice were injected saline; the oleic acid group mice were injected oleic acid (0.2 ml/kg): and the IL-1ra group mice were injected the IL-1ra (20 mg/kg). Lung index, lung wet-to-dry weight ratio, and total protein, cell analysis, nitric oxide measurement, NOS activity in BALF, lung pathology examination were made after an hour of administration of drug.

RESULTS

Preadministration of IL-1ra to the mouse with ALI decreased the lung index, lung wet-to-dry weight ratio and leakage of protein from pulmonary capillary, elevated PaO2, and attenuated lung histologic injury. It was found that in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), NO amount and lung NOS activity increased in oleic acid group, BALF NO amount and lung NOS activity decreased obviously after given IL-1ra.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the protective effect of IL-1ra on oleic acid-induced lung injury, NO may participate in the pathological process of lung injury.

Recognizing post-polio syndrome

The disorder consists of fatigue accompanied by new muscle weakness and muscle pain or, for patients whose acute polio had included bulbar involvement, new difficulty in swallowing or change in voice. The epidemiology remains unclear, fueling anxiety among polio survivors. Yet its course is not drastically progressive, and impairment is usually limited.

AcrAB efflux pump plays a major role in the antibiotic resistance phenotype of Escherichia coli multiple-antibiotic-resistance (Mar) mutants

Multiple-antibiotic-resistance (Mar) mutants of Escherichia coli are resistant to a wide variety of antibiotics, and increased active efflux is known to be responsible for the resistance to some drugs. The identity of the efflux system, however, has remained unknown. By constructing an isogenic set of E. coli K-12 strains, we showed that the marR1 mutation was incapable of increasing the resistance level in the absence of the AcrAB efflux system. This experiment identified the AcrAB system as the major pump responsible for making the Mar mutants resistant to many agents, including tetracycline, chloramphenicol, ampicillin, nalidixic acid, and rifampin.

[Enhancing immunogenicity of pres antigen of hepatitis B virus by fusing genetically it with interleukin-2]

OBJECTIVE

To combine the bioactivities of human interleukin-2 (IL-2) with entire preS antigen of hepatitis B virus (HBV), and search for specific immunotherapeutic agent against chronic hepatitis B.

METHODS

A chimeric gene composed of preS gene from HBV DNA and human IL-2 cDNA was constructed by using polymerase chain reaction and genetic engineering methods, and a novel type of chimeric protein (IL-2-preS) was expressed with high efficiency in E. coli transformed by the chimeric gene clone.

RESULTS

It was confirmed that the chimeric protein retained the full bioactivities of natural IL-2 and preS molecules, such as maintaining CTLL cells to proliferate, with the specific activity being about 10(7)u/mg protein, and binding with monoclonal antibodies against preS1 and preS2 and polymerized human serum albumin (PHSA), etc. It was shown that the titer of antibody against preS antigen in mice induced by IL-2-preS was 9, 11 and 13 times more than those induced by a mixture of IL-2 with preS antigen, MS-2-preS chimeric protein and preS antigen alone, respectively.

CONCLUSION

IL-2-preS potentiates immunogenecity of preS antigen and enhances immune responses of human bodies against preS antigen. In addition, IL-2-preS is of double targetting effect in human bodies, and may be used as a new generation of immunotherapeutic agent for chronic hepatitis B and hepatocellular carcinoma.

The local repressor AcrR plays a modulating role in the regulation of acrAB genes of Escherichia coli by global stress signals

Genes acrAB encode a multidrug efflux pump in Escherichia coli. We have previously reported that transcription of acrAB is increased under general stress conditions (i.e. 4% ethanol, 0.5 M NaCl, and the stationary phase in Luria-Bertani medium). In this study, lacZ transcriptional fusions and an in vitro gel mobility shift assay have been utilized to study the mechanisms governing the regulation of acrAB. We found that a closely linked gene, acrR, encoded a repressor of acrAB. Nevertheless, the general stress conditions increased transcription of acrAB in the absence of functional AcrR, and such conditions surprisingly increased the transcription of acrR even more strongly than that of acrAB. These results suggest that the general-stress-induced transcription of acrAB is primarily mediated by global regulatory pathway(s), and that one major role of AcrR is to function as a specific secondary modulator to fine tune the level of acrAB transcription and to prevent the unwanted overexpression of acrAB. To our knowledge, this represents a novel mechanism of regulating gene expression in E. coli. Evidence also suggests that the up-regulation of acrAB expression under general stress conditions is not likely to be mediated by the known global regulators, such as MarA or SoxS, although elevated levels of these proteins were shown to increase the transcription of acrAB.

Regulation of gap junction intercellular communication by pH in MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic cells

Gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) may be related to coordinating the function of osteoblasts during bone mineralization. Since an alkaline pH supports mineral deposition while an acidic pH promotes mineral dissolution, it was investigated whether GJIC is altered by changes in extracellular pH (pHo) Functional GJIC was assessed by fluorescent dye transfer after microinjection, and connexin protein abundance was examined by immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting in MC3T3-E1 cells, a model of osteoblast-like cells. The percent of cells coupled by GJIC was found to be 40.7% (24 of 59 injected cells) at pH 6.9, 72.2% (26 of 36) at pH 7.2, and 92.8% (26 of 28) at pH 7.6. A decrease in GJIC was detectable by 30-60 minutes of exposure to a pHo of 6.9. Decreased gap junction communication was also found in cells after 3, 8, and 24 h of incubation in a bicarbonate-CO2 system at an ambient pH of 6.9. Connexin protein abundance experiments showed that at after exposure to a pH of 6.9 for 2.75 h, the specific band(s) at 41-43 kD were fainter compared with these same band(s) at pH 7.2 and 7.6. There was no significant difference in band densities at pH 7.2 and 7.6. Determination of intracellular pH (pHi) showed that it was similar to pHo after 2.75 h of incubation at each ambient pH. When pHi was clamped at 6.9 or 7.2, there was a time-dependent decrease in the gap junction coupling frequency at a pHi of 6.9 when pHo was 7.2. Steady-state mRNA levels were decreased at pHo 6.9 but were unchanged at either pHo 7.2 or 7.6. Our conclusions are that (1) longer incubations ( > or = 2.75 h) at low pHo decrease GJIC which in part may be due to a decrease in connexin protein abundance perhaps as a result of a decrease in connexin steady-state mRNA expression; (2) GJIC inhibition or augmentation found at low and high pHo, respectively, suggests that gating of the GJ channel by pH may also occur; (3) pho-induced alterations in GJIC in the MC3T3-E1 osteoblastic model are related to concomitant changes in pHi.

Neuronal expression of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 env proteins in transgenic mice: distribution in the central nervous system and pathological alterations

It is now well documented that human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) induces encephalopathy in patients with AIDS. In vitro studies have implicated the envelope protein (gp120) as a factor which causes neuronal death. To better evaluate the role and elucidate the mechanisms of gp120 neurotoxicity, we have developed transgenic mice carrying a segment of the HIV-1 genome that expresses the viral gp160 protein under the control of the human neurofilament light gene promoter. In two separate lines of transgenic mice, the Env protein was found to be expressed in several nuclei of the brain stem and in the anterior horns of the spinal cord. The two lines showed identical patterns of Env expression. Neuropathological evaluation revealed numerous abnormal dendritic swellings in the immunostained motor neuron structures. Large and numerous neuritic swellings were also prominent in the nucleus gracilis and in the gracilis and cuneate fascicles. In addition, reactive astrocytosis was observed in several immunoreactive areas of the central nervous system. These transgenic mice offer a unique model to further investigate the role of HIV-1 Env protein in neuronal toxicity and to help elucidate the mechanisms that are involved.

[Pathological studies on the anti-invasive character of IL-6 gene transfected leukemia cells]

FBL-3 Leukemia cells transfected with IL-6 gene were expanded in vitro and inoculated into C57BL/6 mice subcutaneously. Tumor growth was observed and histologic analyses of the tumors in situ and the liver, spleen and bone marrow were performed at 14, 21, 28 and 35 days after inoculation. The mice inoculated with wild-type FBL-3 leukemia cells were used as the control. We found that the tumor invasiveness in the mice inoculated with FBL-3-IL-6+ occurred later than in the control group. The survival time of experimental mice was longer than in the control mice. The results demonstrated that inoculation of IL-6 high-secreting FBL-3 inhibited invasiveness of the leukemia cells, suggesting that the IL-6 gene transfected FBL-3 cells can be used as a vaccine to treat leukemia. The mechanism of the anti-invasiveness of IL-6 gene transfected leukemia cells needs further study.

Transforming growth factor-beta down-regulates major histocompatibility complex class I antigen expression and increases the susceptibility of uveal melanoma cells to natural killer cell-mediated cytolysis

Intraocular melanomas, especially those of the anterior segment, reside within an immunologically privileged milieu. Aqueous humour contains a variety of immunomodulatory factors that are believed to contribute to ocular immune privilege. Among these is transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta), which has been shown to down-regulate major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigens on normal cells. Since the susceptibility of tumour cells to natural killer (NK) cell-mediated lysis is inversely correlated with the expression of MHC class I antigens, tumour cells exposed to TGF-beta might be expected to experience enhanced susceptibility to NK-mediated killing. This was examined by incubating two human uveal melanoma cell lines in the presence of TGF-beta and evaluating the expression of MHC class I antigen and susceptibility to NK cell-mediated lysis. OCM1 and OCM8 melanoma cells constitutively express high levels of class I antigen (85-90% positive) and low susceptibility to NK-mediated lysis in vitro (3-8%). Incubation with TGF-beta produced a significant reduction in class I antigen expression (52-62%) and a proportional increased susceptibility to NK cell-mediated cytolysis (17%). Analogous effects were found using a human uveal melanoma cell line (OCM3) that constitutively expresses low amounts of class I (< 5% positive) and high NK susceptibility (35% lysis). Stimulation of class I antigen expression by incubation with interferon-gamma resulted in a sharp increase in class I expression (80% positive) and a comparable diminution in susceptibility to NK cell-mediated lysis (< 10%). The results indicate that TGF-beta, at concentrations found in the aqueous humour, can significantly alter MHC class I antigen expression and the susceptibility of ocular melanoma cells to NK cell-mediated cytolysis.

Abnormal perikaryal accumulation of neurofilament light protein in the brain of mice transgenic for the human protein: sequence of postnatal development

Adult mice transgenic for the human form of neurofilament light protein display abnormal perikaryal immunoreactivity for this protein in many regions of the CNS and notably the thalamus. To determine the sequence of development of these anomalies, we have compared normal and transgenic mice of different postnatal ages (P0-P70), using immunocytochemistry with primary antibodies recognizing both murine and human sequence of neurofilament light protein (NR-4) or the human form only (DP5-1-12). In normal mouse brainstem, several nuclei displayed immunoreactive perikarya at P0. The number of these perikarya culminated at P10, followed by a general decrease, some nuclei having lost all perikaryal immunostaining in adults. In transgenic mouse brainstem, the distribution of perikaryal immunoreactivity already resembled at P0 that of P10 in normal mouse, and remained unchanged in adults. Differences between normal and transgenic mice were even more pronounced in the forebrain. Some nuclei of normal mouse basal forebrain that were weakly immunopositive at P10 or P20, but no longer in adults, were already labeled at P0 and remained so or became more intense at later stages in transgenic mice. In the thalamus of normal mouse, perikaryal labeling was faint, confined to a few nuclei, and detected only transiently at P10, whereas in transgenics, it was already observed in some nuclei at P0, increased in intensity and extended to other nuclei at P10, and persisted thereafter. Strongly immunoreactive, inflated perikarya with excentric nuclei were prominent in these thalamic nuclei at P20, and even larger in size at P70. In the cerebral cortex of normal mice, layers II-III and layer V of many cytoarchitectonic areas showed immunoreactive cell bodies at P10, a distribution which became gradually restricted to the parietal cortex in adults. In transgenic mice, immunopositive cortical cell bodies were first detected at P3, filled layers II-III of numerous cortical areas at P10, and then rapidly decreased in number to approach the adult pattern at P20. In the cortex as well as thalamus of P10 transgenic mice, differences between the patterns of cellular staining with clones NR4 and DP5-1-12 antibodies indicated that both the murine and human proteins were accumulated in these neurons. Thus, neurofilament light protein accumulation in the transgenic mouse brain generally involved neurons displaying perikaryal immunoreactivity for the protein at least at some point during normal postnatal development.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Phosphorylation and localization of Kss1, a MAP kinase of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae pheromone response pathway

Kss1 protein kinase, and the homologous Fus3 kinase, are required for pheromone signal transduction in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. In MATa haploids exposed to alpha-factor, Kss1 was rapidly phosphorylated on both Thr183 and Tyr185, and both sites were required for Kss1 function in vivo. De novo protein synthesis was required for sustained pheromone-induced phosphorylation of Kss1. Catalytically inactive Kss1 mutants displayed alpha-factor-induced phosphorylation on both residues, even in kss1 delta cells; hence, autophosphorylation is not obligatory for these modifications. In kss1 delta fus3 delta double mutants, Kss1 phosphorylation was elevated even in the absence of pheromone; thus, cross-phosphorylation by Fus3 is not responsible for Kss1 activation. In contrast, pheromone-induced Kss1 phosphorylation was eliminated in mutants deficient in two other protein kinases, Ste11 and Ste7. A dominant hyperactive allele of STE11 caused a dramatic increase in the phosphorylation of Kss1, even in the absence of pheromone stimulation, but required Ste7 for this effect, suggesting an order of function: Ste11-->Ste7-->Kss1. When overproduced, Kss1 stimulated recovery from pheromone-imposed G1 arrest. Catalytic activity was essential for Kss1 function in signal transmission, but not for its recovery-promoting activity. Kss1 was found almost exclusively in the particulate material and its subcellular fractionation was unaffected by pheromone treatment. Indirect immunofluorescence demonstrated that Kss1 is concentrated in the nucleus and that its distribution is not altered detectably during signaling.

Effect of alteration of the heterocyclic nucleus of ILV on its isoform selectivity for PKC. Palladium catalyzed route to benzofuran analogues of ILV

A palladium catalyzed route for the preparation of several benzofuran analogues of the PKC activator indolactam V (ILV) is described together with the ability of these compounds to activate the isoforms of PKC. The benzofuran analogues of ILV are shown to activate PKC with a slightly different pattern of isotype selectivity than ILV or 7-n-octyl-ILV. Moreover, in an examination of the effect of stereochemistry at the C-14 center of the teleocidins on PKC binding activity, a clear preference for R-stereochemistry at the C-14 center was found, thus providing additional verification of previously published structural correlations between the families of PKC activators.

Tissue-type plasminogen activator-induced invasion and metastasis of murine melanomas

The role of tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA) in the 'spontaneous' as well as 'experimental' metastasis of ocular melanomas in mice was evaluated by transfecting the D5.1G4 murine melanoma cell line that possesses low metastatic activity and low tPA activity with a full length cDNA encoding human tPA. For comparison, a highly metastatic melanoma cell line (Queen's) that constitutively expresses high tPA production, was transfected with a cDNA coding for human plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1). Unlike non-transfected controls, transfected D5.1G4 melanoma cells expressed high levels of tPA and produced extensive pulmonary metastases following intravenous injection. By contrast, PAI-1 transfected Queen's melanoma cells expressed low tPA activity and displayed significantly reduced metastatic potential compared with nontransfected controls. Moreover, PAI-1 transfected Queen's melanoma cells did not metastasize from the eye while nontransfected parental cells produced extensive spontaneous metastases. Expression of tPA activity in transfected and nontransfected cell lines was completely blocked by an anti-tPA antibody. This antibody significantly inhibited the organ localization and frequency of lung metastases of both Queen's and tPA-transfected D5.1G4 melanomas. This study demonstrates that tPA is involved in the metastasis of murine intraocular melanomas.

Efficacy of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes in the treatment of hepatic metastases arising from transgenic intraocular tumors in mice

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determined if tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) isolated from transgenic intraocular tumors were capable of preventing the development of spontaneous hepatic metastases.

METHODS

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes were isolated from intraocular tumors in immunocompetent mice and were examined for cytolytic activity in vitro. The antigenic phenotypes of the TIL were determined by in situ immunohistology. Cultured TIL were transferred adoptively to immunoincompetent, intraocular, tumor-bearing recipients to determine the efficacy of TIL in preventing spontaneous liver metastases.

RESULTS

Cultured TIL displayed remarkable cytolytic activity in vitro and antimetastatic properties after adoptive transfer into immunoincompetent, athymic nude mice and anti-CD4/CD8-treated euthymic FVB/N mice. Hepatic metastases developed in only 2 of 10 athymic nude mice that subsequently received TIL, whereas metastases developed in all 10 control mice. Similar results were found in anti-CD4/CD8-treated FVB/N mice. Hepatic metastases did not develop in any of the 10 mice treated with TIL, whereas extensive metastatic foci developed in all 10 untreated FVB/N control mice. The efficacy of TIL therapy was manifested also by significant prolongation of host survival times.

CONCLUSIONS

Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes isolated from intraocular tumors can be expanded in vitro and can exert antimetastatic effects in vivo.

Genes acrA and acrB encode a stress-induced efflux system of Escherichia coli

Defined mutations of acrA or acrB (formerly acrE) genes increased the susceptibility of Escherichia coli to a range of small inhibitor molecules. Deletion of acrAB increased susceptibility to cephalothin and cephaloridine, but the permeability of these beta-lactams across the outer membrane was not increased. This finding is inconsistent with the earlier hypothesis that acrAB mutations increase drug susceptibility by increasing the permeability of the outer membrane, and supports our model that acrAB codes for a multi-drug efflux pump. The natural environment of an enteric bacterium such as E. coli is enriched in bile salts and fatty acids. An acrAB deletion mutant was found to be hypersusceptible to bile salts and to decanoate. In addition, acrAB expression was elevated by growth in 5 mM decanoate. These results suggest that one major physiological function of AcrAB is to protect E. coli against these and other hydrophobic inhibitors. Transcription of acrAB is increased by other stress conditions including 4% ethanol, 0.5 M NaCl, and stationary phase in Luria-Bertani medium. Finally, acrAB expression was shown to be increased in mar (multiple-antibiotic-resistant) mutants.

[Hemofiltration ameliorating reperfusion injury after complete cerebral ischemia: an experimental study]

The effects of hemofiltration on cerebral resuscitation were studied by using resuscitation model of potassemia-induced cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary bypass. Sixteen rabbits were divided into control group (CG) and hemofiltration group (HFG). Blood lactic acid, lipid peroxidant (LPO), serum iron, middle molecular substance (MMS) were determined. Neurologic deficit score (NDS) system was used to evaluate neurologic function. The level of blood lactic acid was increased in both CG and HFG. It was higher in CG than in HFG (P > 0.05). Serum iron was increased in CG, however, it was decreased in HFG. The difference between the two groups was significant (P < 0.01). LPO was increased significantly in CG and there was no obvious changes in HFG. MMS was increased gradually during reperfusion in CG, whereas it was decreased in HFG. There was significant difference in the corresponding times of the two groups. NDS of CG was higher than that of HFG (32 +/- 12 vs 18 +/- 10) (P < 0.01). These data demonstrate that hemofiltration is able to eliminate ischemic and reperfusional toxic products quickly. Additionally, free iron, agonist factor of catalyzing free radical reaction, does not increase because free radicals and lactic acid are eliminated quickly, inhibiting free radical tissue injury and improving cerebral resuscitation.

Successful immunization against Acanthamoeba keratitis in a pig model

The feasibility of inducing protective immunity to Acanthamoeba keratitis was tested in a pig model. Experiments were designed to determine if ocular infection with Acanthamoeba trophozoites would elicit protection against reinfection. Additional experiments examined whether injection of parasite antigens either intramuscularly, subconjunctivally, or by both routes would induce immunity. Therefore, four groups of animals were examined: (a) pigs that had resolved a primary corneal infection with Acanthamoeba; (b) pigs immunized intramuscularly; (c) pigs immunized subconjunctivally; and (d) pigs immunized intramuscularly and subconjunctivally. Animals were subsequently challenged with parasite-laden soft contact lenses and observed clinically for the appearance of Acanthamoeba keratitis. Acanthamoeba-specific serum antibody titers and blastogenic responses of peripheral blood lymphocytes were determined weekly. The results indicated that intramuscular injection of Acanthamoeba antigens failed to protect against ocular infection even though hosts developed high titers of IgG antibodies and displayed lymphocyte blastogenic responses to parasite antigens. Ocular infection alone failed to stimulate immunity in any of the animals. By contrast, 50% of the hosts immunized subconjunctivally were protected against corneal disease, and 100% of the animals immunized by a combination of intramuscular and subconjunctival administration of parasite antigens were completely protected against two separate ocular challenges with infectious parasites. Protection did not correlate with either IgG antibody titers or blastogenic potentials of peripheral blood lymphocytes. Interestingly, ocular infection alone failed to stimulate immunity to subsequent ocular challenge with infectious parasites. Thus, administration of parasite antigen via the subconjunctival route can protect against Acanthamoeba keratitis.

CNS distribution and overexpression of neurofilament light proteins (NF-L) in mice transgenic for the human NF-L: aberrant accumulation in thalamic perikarya

Light microscopic immunocytochemistry with monoclonal antibodies recognizing both murine and human light neurofilament proteins (mNF-L and hNF-L) or hNF-L only was used to examine the distribution of NF-L in the CNS of adult mice, normal or transgenic for the human gene. In normal mice, major fiber bundles were immunoreactive to the first antibody, with few exceptions such as the internal capsule, anterior commissure, and corpus callosum. Strong immunoreactivity was also present in the perikarya of motoneurons in the spinal cord and brainstem, as well as in other brainstem nuclei. Faint cell body staining was visible in layers II, III, and V of the parietal cortex and layers V and VI of the retrosplenial cingulate cortex. In transgenic mice, all forebrain as well as brainstem fiber tracts were intensely immunoreactive to both antibodies. Cell body staining was more intense than in normal mouse and involved additional forebrain and brainstem regions, including extended areas of cerebral cortex. Abnormal cell body labeling was particularly striking in several thalamic nuclei, where numerous darkly stained perikarya were considerably enlarged by accumulated immunoreactive material and exhibited eccentric and fragmented nuclei. At the electron microscopic level, these perikarya were filled with disarrayed filaments displacing all other organelles against the cytoplasmic membrane. Such aberrant accumulation of NF-L was presumably the result of an overexpression in selective subpopulations of CNS neurons. It was compatible with prolonged survival of the animal and could provide a new experimental model of neurodegenerative disease.

Relationship between natural killer cell susceptibility and metastasis of human uveal melanoma cells in a murine model

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the susceptibility of human uveal melanoma cells to in vitro and in vivo natural killer (NK) cell-mediated cytolysis and to determine if NK cells influence metastasis from the eye.

METHODS

Four human uveal melanoma cell lines and one melanoma cell line derived from a metastatic lesion from a patient with uveal melanoma were tested for in vitro and in vivo NK cell-mediated lysis in a mouse model. Major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I antigen expression was evaluated by flow cytometry. The role of NK cells in controlling the metastasis of uveal melanoma cells from the eye to the liver was examined in nude mice.

RESULTS

Sensitivity to in vitro and in vivo lysis by human and murine NK cells was correlated with reduced expression of MHC class I antigens. Uveal melanoma lines expressing normal MHC class I antigen expression were insensitive to NK cell-mediated lysis, both in vitro and in vivo. Metastasis of uveal melanoma cells was inhibited by NK cell activity because disruption of in vivo NK function produced a sharp increase in the spontaneous metastasis of intraocular melanomas in nude mice.

CONCLUSIONS

There is considerable variation in the susceptibility of human uveal melanomas to NK cell-mediated cytolysis. Susceptibility is closely correlated with reduced expression of MHC class I antigen expression. Disruption of NK cell function significantly increases the development of hepatic metastases from human uveal melanoma cells.

Efflux pumps and drug resistance in gram-negative bacteria

The outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria can only slow down the influx of lipophilic inhibitors, and so these bacteria need active efflux pumps of broad specificity to survive. Pumps such as the Escherichia coli Acr system and its homologs make Gram-negative bacteria resistant to dyes, detergents and antibiotics.

Reconstitution of human TFIIA activity from recombinant polypeptides: a role in TFIID-mediated transcription

Human TFIIA activity is composed of three subunits (alpha, beta, gamma). Here we report the isolation of a human cDNA clone encoding the gamma-subunit and the reconstitution of TFIIA activity from recombinant polypeptides (holo-TFIIA). Protein-protein interaction analysis established that the beta and gamma subunits of TFIIA interact with the TBP component of TFIID. The alpha-subunit is recruited into the complex by association with the gamma-subunit. Functional studies indicate that recombinant TFIIA stimulates basal TFIID-dependent transcription but is without effect on TBP-dependent transcription. Our studies indicate that TFIIA not only functions by physically removing negative components present in TFIID (antirepression), as demonstrated previously, but that it can stimulate basal transcription through components of the TFIID complex. Holo-TFIIA also stimulated activation of transcription in vitro as well as in vivo in transfected HeLa cells.

The influence of induction chemotherapy dose and dose intensity on the duration of remission in acute myeloid leukemia. Australian Leukemia Study Group

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of dose and dose intensity (DI) of induction and consolidation chemotherapy on relapse rates in 264 de novo patients with acute nonlymphocytic leukemia (ANLL). Patients were randomised to receive cytosine arabinoside (ARAC) 100 mg/m2 continuous infusion for 7 days and daunorubicin (DNR) 50 mg/m2 IV day 1-3 (7-3) or the same drugs with the addition of etoposide 75 mg/m2 IV days 1-7 (7-3-7). Cox proportional hazards regression models were used throughout to identify prognostic factors, including dose delivery parameters, influencing the rate of relapse. Of 152 patients who achieved a complete remission (CR), 104 have relapsed with a median duration of CR of 15.8 months. Actual dose delivered was prospectively documented. Cox regression analysis identified the most significant prognostic factors jointly influencing duration of CR as performance status groups (p < 0.0001), percentage peripheral blasts (p = 0.0015), 7-3-7 arm (p = 0.0075), age < 40 years (p = 0.022) and induction dose ARA-C plus DNR (p = 0.029). In this analysis patients randomized to the 7-3-7 arm had an estimated 43% reduction in the relapse rate and each 10% reduction of doses ARA-C and DNR was associated with an estimated 45% increase in the relapse rate. The number of induction courses, delays in treatment and induction dose intensity did not significantly influence the duration of CR nor did any of the consolidation treatment parameters.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Distribution, content and action site of leucine-enkephalin in pulmonary artery wall of rat and rabbit]

Using immunohistochemical method to investigate the distribution of peptidergic fibers in the pulmonary artery wall of SD rat, L-enkephalin immunoreactive (L-ENK ir) fibers were easily demonstrated. The contents of L-ENK in pulmonary artery of rat and rabbit measured by radioimmunoassay were respectively 439.18 +/- 30.52 and 29.9 +/- 1.4 (pg/mg of wct tissue). Contraction of superfused strips of pulmonary artery of rabbit could be evoked by parameter I electric field stimulation. The response was blocked by alpha-receptor antagonist phentolamine. Alpha 2-receptor antagonist Yohimbine enhanced the response in small doses (0.06-0.12 mumol/L), while inhibited in large (3.2 mumol/L). The contraction could also be enhanced when the artery strips were preincubated with naloxone. After the alpha-receptors were blocked with phentolamine, stronger contraction could still be evoked by parameter II electric field stimulation and the response was not affected by naloxone. L-ENK had no effect on the contraction evoked by exogenous NE. The present experiments demonstrate that enkephalin presented in the pulmonary artery wall are released by electric field stimulation. Enkephalin may reduce the release of NE from sympathetic nerve endings via opioid receptors and inhibit the contraction response.

Role of efflux pump(s) in intrinsic resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: active efflux as a contributing factor to beta-lactam resistance

Wild-type strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa are more resistant to various beta-lactam antibiotics as well as other agents than most enteric bacteria. Although resistance to compounds of earlier generations is explained by the synergism between the outer membrane barrier and the inducible beta-lactamase, it was puzzling to see significant levels of resistance to compounds that do not act as inducers or are not hydrolyzed rapidly by the chromosomally encoded enzyme. This intrinsic-resistance phenotype becomes enhanced in those strains with the so-called intrinsic carbenicillin resistance. In the accompanying paper (X.-Z. Li, D. M. Livermore, and H. Nikaido, Antimicrob. Agents Chemother. 38:1732-1741, 1994), we showed that active efflux played a role in the resistance, to various non-beta-lactam agents, of P. aeruginosa strains in general and that the efflux was enhanced in intrinsically carbenicillin-resistant strains. We show in this paper that, in comparison with the drug-hypersusceptible mutant K799/61, less benzylpenicillin was accumulated in wild-type strains of P. aeruginosa and that the accumulation levels were even lower in intrinsically carbenicillin-resistant strains. Deenergization by the addition of a proton conductor increased the accumulation level to that expected for equilibration across the cytoplasmic membrane. In intrinsically carbenicillin-resistant isolates, there was no evidence that either nonspecific or specific permeation rates of beta-lactams across the outer membrane were lowered in comparison with those of the more susceptible isolates. Furthermore, these carbenicillin-resistant isolates were previously shown to have no alteration in the level or the inducibility of beta-lactamase and in the affinity of penicillin-binding proteins. These data together suggest the involvement of an active efflux mechanism also in the resistance to beta-lactams. Hydrophilic beta-lactams with more than one charged group did not cross the cytoplasmic membrane readily. Yet one such compound, ceftriaxone, appeared to be extruded from the cells of more-resistant strains, although with this compound effects of proton conductors could not be shown. We postulate that wild-type strains of P. aeruginosa pump out such hydrophilic beta-lactams either from the periplasm or from the outer leaflet of the lipid bilayer of the cytoplasmic membrane, in a manner analogous to that hypothesized for multidrug resistance protein of human cancer cells (M.M. Gottesman and I. Pastan, Annu. Rev. Biochem. 62:385-427, 1993).

Characterization of intraocular tumors arising in transgenic mice

PURPOSE

To characterize intraocular tumors that arise by in situ transformation in the choroid-retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in transgenic mice bearing the SV40 oncogene under the control of the mouse tyrosinase promoter.

METHODS

Tumors from TySV40 transgenic mice were characterized in vivo and in vitro by immunohistology, compound microscopy, and electron microscopy. Tumor cell lines were established and characterized for growth and metastatic potential in the eyes of nude mice.

RESULTS

On light microscopy, ocular tumors were predominantly epithelioid, although occasional clusters of spindle cells were also present. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of numerous basal infoldings and abundant multilaminated basement membranes on the ocular tumors. Tumors stained with antibodies to melanoma-associated antigens, gangliosides GD2 and GD3, and the SV40 T antigen. Radiolabeled transgenic tumor cells preferentially localized in the liver after intravenous injection in normal mice. Intracamerally transplanted transgenic tumors metastasized from the eyes to the livers of nude mice.

CONCLUSIONS

In TySV40 transgenic mice, intraocular tumors develop that arise at the choroid-RPE interface, and they display morphologic and ultrastructural features consistent with RPE carcinomas. However, the transgenic tumors express melanoma-associated antigens and a propensity to metastasize to the liver, two features characteristic of uveal melanomas. The TySV40 transgenic murine tumors represent potentially useful tools for investigations into the biology and metastasis of intraocular neoplasms.

Isolation and characterization of gap junctions in the osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cell line

Gap junctions are channels connecting cells that function in cell-to-cell communication. Gap junctions are abundant in osteoblastic cells. Membranes enriched for gap junction plaques were obtained by differential centrifugation, followed by treatment of the membranes with potassium iodide and sarkosyl before sucrose density gradient centrifugation. Electron microscopy showed that the preparation was enriched for electron-dense membranes consistent with gap junctions. Coomassie Blue staining of SDS-PAGE preparations revealed a prominent band at approximately 41 kD. Western analysis with a site-directed antibody, CT-360 (D. Laird, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA), to the C-terminal portion of the rat heart connexin 43 molecule was positive in the MC3T3-E1 cell line, a phenotypic osteoblastic cell line derived from normal neonatal mouse calvariae. Western analysis using a monoclonal antibody, R5.21C, to rat liver connexin 32 was negative. Additionally, a prominent band at 59 kD was detected by CT-360 in both gap junction-enriched preparations and cell lysates. Treatment of diluted samples of gap junction-enriched preparations with sulfhydryl reducing agents in combination with detergents resulted in the enhancement and diminution of the 41 and 59 kD bands, respectively. Immunoprecipitation following [35S]methionine/[35S]cysteine labeling revealed a significant band detected at 122 kD in addition to the 41 kD band. To demonstrate functional gap junctions, transfer of lucifer yellow dye to surrounding cells was monitored after microinjection of a target cell. Between passages 10 and 25 in culture, functional cell coupling was found in approximately 70% of injected cells. Coupling was detected within 1-2 minutes after injection. Simultaneous microinjection of the CT-360 antibody with lucifer yellow resulted in the decoupling of cells. In conclusion, (1) MC3T3-E1 cells possess a 41 kD protein that is recognized by connexin 43 antibody to rat heart gap junction; (2) multimers of the MC3T3-E1 gap junctions occur in the preparation; and (3) functional coupling demonstrated by dye transfer may be regulated by region(s) in the C terminus of the connexin molecule.

Efficient anchoring of RNA polymerase in Escherichia coli during coupled transcription-translation of genes encoding integral inner membrane polypeptides

While it has been known that supercoiling of the DNA template can be induced by transcription, the mechanism and the efficiency of this process in vivo is not fully understood. We report here that transcription of genes encoding 16 S rRNA, a stable RNA species, or cytoplasmic polypeptides leads to very little or no detectable DNA supercoiling even under the optimum conditions in Escherichia coli. This indicates that hydrodynamic drag on the transcription complex (including RNA polymerase, nascent RNA, ribosomes, and nascent polypeptides) is not sufficient to anchor RNA polymerase during coupled transcription-translation. On the other hand, transcription of membrane-associated genes encoding integral inner membrane or exported periplasmic polypeptides leads to apparent DNA supercoiling. Transcription of genes encoding integral inner membrane polypeptides leads to significantly greater anchoring of RNA polymerase than does transcription of genes encoding periplasmic polypeptides. This may reflect differences in the coupling of transcription-translation with membrane association during expression of these two classes of polypeptides. Evidence is further presented to suggest that the anchoring of RNA polymerase is probably achieved through the interaction of nascent polypeptides with the cytoplasmic surface of the inner membrane during coupled transcription-translation. Moreover, transcriptions of a membrane-associated gene can, under certain circumstances, induce topological anchoring of an RNA polymerase transcribing a neighboring gene that ordinarily is not membrane-associated. Finally, the potential biological consequences of our findings are discussed.

Response of calcitonin-gene-related peptide-like immunoreactive nerve fibers of the anterior pituitary to adrenalectomy in the rat

The mammalian anterior pituitary is known to be regulated by humoral factors only, no direct neural influence having ever been discovered. Our recent studies have shown in several species that there are substantial amounts of substance P and calcitonin-gene-related peptide-like immunoreactive (CGRP-LI) nerve fibers in the anterior pituitary and that they can make synaptic contacts with secretory cells, among which corticotropes. In the present study, we investigated changes in CGRP-LI nerve fibers of the anterior pituitary after bilateral adrenalectomy in the rat. The results show that the number of CGRP-LI nerve fibers increases significantly. In parallel, they cover a wider area of the gland after the operation, suggesting a direct neural influence.

Rejection of intraocular tumors from transgenic mice by tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes

The present study examined the role of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) in the rejection of intraocular tumors from SV40 transgenic mice. Tumor cells from an intraocular tumor arising in an SV40 transgenic FVB/N mouse were transplanted into the eyes of syngeneic FVB/N mice and the TIL isolated. TIL were assessed for direct cytolytic activity in vitro. TIL were also transferred passively to immunosuppressed FVB/N mice to determine if they could mediate intraocular tumor rejection. The role of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in intraocular tumor rejection was evaluated by depleting the respective cell populations in FVB/N hosts prior to intraocular tumor challenge. The results showed that intraocular tumors undergoing rejection in immunocompetent syngeneic hosts became infiltrated with T cells, with the CD8+ subset predominating at the time of rejection. By contrast, athymic nude mice did not reject the intraocular tumors nor did the tumors become infiltrated with TIL. TIL displayed direct, tumor-specific cytolytic activity immediately after isolation from the tumor-containing eyes. FVB/N hosts depleted of CD4+ T cells were unable to reject their intraocular tumors. In vivo depletion of CD8+ T cells delayed, but did not prevent tumor rejection. Adoptively transferred TIL mediated swift rejection of intraocular tumors in immunoincompetent recipients. Recipients of TIL, but not recipients of normal spleen cells, acquired significant tumor-specific CTL activity that was demonstrable in vitro. The results strongly suggest, but do not prove, that TIL mediate rejection of intraocular tumors from transgenic mice by direct cytolysis. Although CD4+ T cells are necessary for tumor rejection and are capable of direct cytolysis, the predominant effector cells are CD8+ CTL.

Capacity of simian virus 40 T antigen to induce self-tolerance but not immunological privilege in the anterior chamber of the eye

Transgenic mice bearing the simian virus 40 (SV40) large T oncogene developed progressively growing intraocular tumors and displayed characteristics of immunological tolerance to SV40 T antigen. Transgenic mice failed to mount CTL responses to SV40 T antigen-bearing tumor cell lines derived from the transgenic intraocular tumors. Spleen cells from transgenic hosts were able to prevent the in vivo and in vitro generation of CTL responses by lymphocytes from normal syngeneic FVB/N mice. Adoptive transfer of spleen cells from tolerant transgenic donors temporarily inhibited the immunological rejection of SV40 T antigen-positive tumor cells transplanted to normal syngeneic FVB/N recipients. Thus, introduction of SV40 transforming sequences into the mouse germline induced tolerance to SV40 T antigen. However, in normal FVB/N mice, SV40 T antigen-bearing tumor cells failed to experience immune privilege in the anterior chamber and did not elicit systemic down-regulation of delayed-type hypersensitivity responses that characteristically occur when antigens are introduced into the anterior chamber. The results indicate that within the anterior chamber of the eye, SV40 T antigen-bearing cells are perceived by the host's immune system much differently than are other categories of antigen. Thus, SV40 T antigen effectively induces self-immunological tolerance when its gene is introduced into the host's germline but fails to experience immunological privilege in the anterior chamber of the eye in normal hosts.

Histocytochemistry of glycoconjugates in nasal inverted papilloma

In order to investigate the changes in cellular distribution of the glycocalyces in nasal inverted papilloma, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded biopsy specimens of inverted papilloma were analyzed by the avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex technique for the demonstration of peanut agglutinin (PNA) receptors, concanavalin A (Canavalia ensiformis agglutinin; ConA) receptors, carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), and keratin, and compared with normal nasal mucosa, nasal polyps, and papillary adenocarcinoma. The inverted papillomas were positive for PNA and CEA, to the same degree as papillary adenocarcinoma. Their PNA binding was related to the degree of dysplasia. The ConA reaction was intermediate between that of normal mucosa and adenocarcinoma. The results suggest that the alteration of cellular glycoprotein structure in inverted papilloma is associated with its biologic characterization.

Establishing a resuscitation model in rabbits with closed-thoracic cardiopulmonary by-pass

This study aims to establish an animal model of resuscitation in rabbits by using closed-thoracic cardiopulmonary by-pass (CTCPB). The rabbits were randomly divided into four groups according to cardiac arrest times which were 8, 10, 12, and 15 min. Neurologic outcome and blood lactate were determined within 150 min after resuscitation. It was indicated that the rabbits' neurologic functions were progressively injured with prolonged cardiac arrest time. The threshold of circulatory arrest time that induced a vegetative state in the rabbits was between 10 and 12 min. There were no significant differences in cardiac resuscitability among the four groups, as was so for plasma lactate, although it increased significantly from the control levels. The establishment of a small-animal model of resuscitation by using CTCPB, and the problems in dealing with it are also described and discussed in detail in this paper. Our experience indicated that this is a simple, convenient, and economical animal model for the study of resuscitation.

Isolation of a cDNA encoding the largest subunit of TFIIA reveals functions important for activated transcription

Transcription factor IIA has been shown to interact with the TATA-binding protein and to act early during preinitiation complex formation. The human factor is composed of three subunits (alpha, beta, gamma). A human cDNA clone encoding the largest subunit of TFIIA (alpha) was isolated. The recombinant alpha polypeptide, together with the beta and gamma subunits, was capable of reconstituting TFIIA activity. Studies using antibodies raised against recombinant alpha polypeptide demonstrate that TFIIA can be an integral component of the preinitiation complex. We demonstrate that TFIIA not only interacts with TBP but also can associate with the TFIID complex. Functional assays establish that TFIIA has no apparent role in basal transcription but plays an important role in activation of transcription. Interestingly, amino acid sequence analyses of the beta-subunit demonstrate these residues to be entirely contained within the carboxyl terminus of the cDNA clone encoding the alpha-subunit.

Chemistry, binding affinities, and behavioral properties of a new class of "antineophobic" mitochondrial DBI receptor complex (mDRC) ligands

The mitochondrial DBI receptor complex (mDRC; previously called the peripheral benzodiazepine receptors) is linked to the production of neurosteroids such as pregnenolone sulfate, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, and others. In order to gain further information as to the function of the mDRC in the brain, we have constructed and tested both in vitro and in vivo a novel series of ligands, 2-arylindole-3-acetamides. The SAR studies detailed herein delineate some of the structural features required for high affinity binding to the mDRCs. In most cases the new ligands were prepared by use of the Fischer indole synthesis. Variations in the length and number of the alkyl groups on the amide nitrogen were probed together with the effects of halogen substituents on one or both of the aryl rings. Some ligands were also synthesized for study which represent conformationally constrained versions of the parent structure. Broad screening studies revealed these indoleacetamides to be highly selective for the mDRC, since they failed to bind with any significant affinity to other receptor systems. Some of the ligands were found to exhibit Ki values in the low nanomolar range for the mDRC as measured by the displacement of [3H]4'-chlorodiazepam. A subset of these ligands was also shown to stimulate pregnenolone formation from the mitochondria of C6-2B glioma cells with an EC50 of about 3 nM. In animal experiments ligands selected for further study were found to exhibit antineophobic effects, in spite of the fact that they exhibit no direct action on GABAA receptors. Consequently, it is postulated that these ligands owe their action to an indirect modulation of GABAA receptor function, presumably by stimulation of neurosteroid production and release from glial cells, followed by neurosteroid modulation of GABA's action on the chloride ion channel conductance of GABAA receptors.

Molecular cloning and characterization of acrA and acrE genes of Escherichia coli

The DNA fragment containing the acrA locus of the Escherichia coli chromosome has been cloned by using a complementation test. The nucleotide sequence indicates the presence of two open reading frames (ORFs). Sequence analysis suggests that the first ORF encodes a 397-residue lipoprotein with a 24-amino-acid signal peptide at its N terminus. One inactive allele of acrA from strain N43 was shown to contain an IS2 element inserted into this ORF. Therefore, this ORF was designated acrA. The second downstream ORF is predicted to encode a transmembrane protein of 1,049 amino acids and is named acrE. Genes acrA and acrE are probably located on the same operon, and both of their products are likely to affect drug susceptibilities observed in wild-type cells. The cellular localizations of these polypeptides have been analyzed by making acrA::TnphoA and acrE::TnphoA fusion proteins. Interestingly, AcrA and AcrE share 65 and 77% amino acid identity with two other E. coli polypeptides, EnvC and EnvD, respectively. Drug susceptibilities in one acrA mutant (N43) and one envCD mutant (PM61) have been determined and compared. Finally, the possible functions of these proteins are discussed.

Stimulation of brain steroidogenesis by 2-aryl-indole-3-acetamide derivatives acting at the mitochondrial diazepam-binding inhibitor receptor complex

The 2-aryl-indole-3-acetamide derivatives, 2-hexyl-indole-3-acetamide (FGIN-1-27) and 2-hexyl-indole-3-acetamide-N-benzene-tricarboxylic acid (FGIN-1-44) displaced [3H]1-(2-chlorophenyl)-N-methyl-N-(1- methylpropyl)-3-isoquinoline-carboxamide([3H]PK 11195) and [3H]4-chlorodiazepam ([3H]4'CD) from binding sites located on the rat brain mitochondrial DBI receptor complex (MDRC) with Ki values in the nanomolar range. Both 2-aryl-indole-3-acetamide derivatives acted as agonists at the MDRC and thereby stimulated the rate of pregnenolone synthesis in isolated rat brain mitochondria; this effect was inhibited by PK 11195, an MDRC ligand that does not possess steroidogenic activity. FGIN-1-27 and FGIN-1-44 failed to bind to other transmitter receptors, including gamma-aminobutyric-A receptors. When administered orally to rats, both FGIN-1-27 and FGIN-1-44 reduced fear of novelty in the elevated plus maze test. This action was prevented by PK 11195, but not by flumazenil. FGIN-1-44, which was rapidly converted to FGIN-1-27 in the rat brain, was 3 to 4 times more potent than FGIN-1-27 in reducing fear of novelty because of its greater bioavailability. FGIN-1-27 increased the brain pregnenolone content in adrenalectomized-castrated rats pretreated with trilostane (in order to prevent metabolism of pregnenolone to progesterone). This increase was blocked by pretreatment with PK 11195. Although FGIN-1-27 and FGIN-1-44 increased the corticosterone concentration in adrenal glands and plasma of hypophysectomized rats in a PK 11195-sensitive manner, both drugs failed to increase adrenal steroidogenesis in sham-operated rats.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Calcitonin gene-related peptide- and substance P-like-immunoreactive innervation of the anterior pituitary in the rat

In our previous studies substantial amounts of substance P- and calcitonin gene-related peptide-like-immunoreactive nerve fibers have been identified in the anterior pituitary of the monkey and the dog. They were found to be in close proximity to the gland cells, even making synaptic contacts with some types of the gland cells. The present study investigated in detail the calcitonin gene-related peptide- and substance P-like immunoreactivities of the anterior pituitary in the rat. Though the immunoreactive fibers were not as abundant as in the anterior pituitary of the monkey and the dog, they still appeared in notable amounts. The calcitonin gene-related peptide- and substance P-like-immunoreactive nerve fibers occurred mostly as thin, tortuous, and densely varicose fibers, weaving among the gland cells. They are widely distributed, more in the central part of the gland. Double-immunostaining proved nearly complete co-localization of these two peptides in the nerve fibers. It is hypothesized that the anterior pituitary can be regulated by direct neural factors as well as humoral factors.

Participation of mitochondrial diazepam binding inhibitor receptors in the anticonflict, antineophobic and anticonvulsant action of 2-aryl-3-indoleacetamide and imidazopyridine derivatives

The 2-hexyl-indoleacetamide derivative, FGIN-1-27 [N,N-di-n-hexyl-2- (4-fluorophenyl)indole-3-acetamide], and the imidazopyridine derivative, alpidem, both bind with high affinity to glial mitochondrial diazepam binding inhibitor receptors (MDR) and increase mitochondrial steroidogenesis. Although FGIN-1-27 is selective for the MDR, alpidem also binds to the allosteric modulatory site of the gamma-aminobutyric acidA receptor where the benzodiazepines bind. FGIN-1-27 and alpidem, like the neurosteroid 3 alpha,21-dehydroxy-5 alpha-pregnane-20-one (THDOC), clonazepam and zolpidem (the direct allosteric modulators of gamma-aminobutyric acidA receptors) delay the onset of isoniazid and metrazol-induced convulsions. The anti-isoniazid convulsant action of FGIN-1-27 and alpidem, but not that of THDOC, is blocked by PK 11195. In contrast, flumazenil blocked completely the anticonvulsant action of clonazepam and zolpidem and partially blocked that of alpidem, but it did not affect the anticonvulsant action of THDOC and FGIN-1-27. Alpidem, like clonazepam, zolpidem and diazepam, but not THDOC or FGIN-1-27, delay the onset of bicuculline-induced convulsions. In two animal models of anxiety, the neophobic behavior in the elevated plus maze test and the conflict-punishment behavior in the Vogel conflict test, THDOC and FGIN-1-27 elicited anxiolytic-like effects in a manner that is flumazenil insensitive, whereas alpidem elicited a similar anxiolytic effect, but is partially blocked by flumazenil. Whereas PK 11195 blocked the effect of FGIN-1-27 and partially blocked alpidem, it did not affect THDOC in both animal models of anxiety.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Regulation of carotenoid and bacteriochlorophyll biosynthesis genes and identification of an evolutionarily conserved gene required for bacteriochlorophyll accumulation

The temporal expression of ten clustered genes required for carotenoid (crt) and bacteriochlorophyll (bch) biosynthesis was examined during the transition from aerobic respiration to anaerobiosis requisite for the development of the photosynthetic membrane in the bacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus. Accumulation of crtA, crtC, crtD, crtE, crtF, crtK, bchC and bchD mRNAs increased transiently and coordinately, up to 12-fold following removal of oxygen from the growth medium, paralleling increases in mRNAs encoding pigment-binding polypeptides of the photosynthetic apparatus. The crtB and crtI genes, in contrast, were expressed similarly in the presence or absence of oxygen. The regulation patterns of promoters for the crtA and crtI genes and the bchCXYZ operon were characterized using lacZ transcriptional fusion and qualitatively reflected the corresponding mRNA accumulation patterns. We also report that the bchI gene product, encoded by a DNA sequence previously considered to be a portion of crtA, shares 49% sequence identity with the nuclear-encoded Arabidopsis thaliana Cs chloroplast protein required for normal pigmentation in plants.

Analysis of the promoter and regulatory sequences of an oxygen-regulated bch operon in Rhodobacter capsulatus by site-directed mutagenesis

The biosynthesis of pigments (carotenoids and bacteriochlorophylls) in the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus is regulated by the oxygen concentration in the environment. However, the mechanism of this regulation has remained obscure. In this study, transcriptional fusions of the bchCXYZ promoter region to lacZ were used to identify the promoter and regulatory sequences governing transcription of these bacteriochlorophyll biosynthesis genes. The promoter region was identified in vivo by making deletions and site-directed mutations. The 50 bp upstream of the promoter region was shown to be required for the oxygen-dependent transcriptional regulation of bchCXYZ. A previously described palindrome sequence is also likely involved in the regulation. A gel mobility shift assay further defined the interaction of transcription regulators with these DNA sequence elements in vitro and demonstrated that a DNA-protein complex is formed at this promoter region. Since the suggested promoter sequence and the palindrome sequence are found upstream of several other bch and crt operons, these sequences may be responsible for regulating oxygen-dependent pigment biosynthesis at the level of transcription in R. capsulatus. In addition, these cis-acting DNA elements are not found upstream of puh and puf operons, which encode the structural polypeptides of the reaction center and light-harvesting I complexes. This observation supports the model of different regulatory mechanism for the pigment biosynthesis enzymes and structural polypeptides required for the production of the photosynthetic apparatus.

[The study on prethrombotic state in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cor pulmonale]

We measured PT, TT, KPTT, Fg, vWF, AT-IIIAg, AT-IIIA, alpha 2M, TXB2, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, PLg, tPAAg, tPAA and PAI of patients with acute onset of chronic bronchitis, pulmonary emphysema, and cor pulmonale. The results were that many above parameter had a worsening tendency along with deterioration of COPD, and Fg, vWF, TXB2, 6-keto-PGF1 alpha, tPAA and PAI were more sensitive than others. The analysis of multiple liner regression of 22 blood items in patients with cor pulmonale showed that pH, PaO2, PaCO2 had correlation with many items of prethrombotic state. We consider that in the progress of COPD, prethrombotic state gradually appeared and aggravated. The causes may be related with repeatedly infections, low O2, high CO2 and imbalance of acid-base equilibrium.

Dynamics of DNA supercoiling by transcription in Escherichia coli

The relative rotation between RNA polymerase and DNA during transcription elongation can lead to supercoiling of the DNA template. However, the variables that influence the efficiency of supercoiling by RNA polymerase in vivo are poorly understood, despite the importance of supercoiling for DNA metabolism. We describe a model system to measure the rate of supercoiling by transcription and to estimate the rates of topoisomerase turnover in Escherichia coli. Transcription in a strain lacking topoisomerase I can lead to optimal supercoiling, wherein nearly one positive and one negative superturn are produced for each 10.4 base pairs transcribed. This rapid efficient supercoiling is observed during transcription of membrane-associated gene products, encoded by tet (the gene for tetracycline resistance) and phoA (the gene for E. coli alkaline phosphatase), when the genes are oppositely oriented. Replacement of tet by cat, the gene from Tn9 encoding resistance to chloramphenicol, whose gene product is soluble in the cytosol, reduces the efficiency of supercoiling by RNA polymerase. In a wild-type topoisomerase background, both gyrase and topoisomerase I are kinetically competent to relieve superturns produced by transcription. These results suggest that the level of DNA supercoiling in vivo is probably determined by topoisomerase activity, not by transcription.