TWISTing stemness, inflammation and proliferation of epithelial ovarian cancer cells through MIR199A2/214

Cancer stem cells are responsible for sustaining the tumor and giving rise to proliferating and progressively differentiating cells. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating the process of cancer stem cell (CSC) differentiation is not clearly understood. Recently, we reported the isolation of the epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) stem cells (type I/CD44+). In this study, we show that type I/CD44+ cells are characterized by low levels of both miR-199a and miR-214, whereas mature EOC cells (type II/CD44-) have higher levels of miR-199a and miR-214. Moreover, these two micro RNAs (miRNAs) are regulated as a cluster on pri-miR-199a2 within the human Dnm3os gene (GenBank FJ623959). This study identify Twist1 as a regulator of this unique miRNA cluster responsible for the regulation of the IKKbeta/NF-kappaB and PTEN/AKT pathways and its association of ovarian CSC differentiation. Our data suggest that Twist1 may be an important regulator of 'stemness' in EOC cells. The regulation of MIR199A2/214 expression may be used as a potential therapeutic approach in EOC patients.

Decreased colony formation of high proliferative potential colony-forming cells and granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming units and increased Hes-1 expression in bone marrow mononuclear cells from patients with psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the skin. The dysfunctional immunity experienced by patients with psoriasis is believed to influence the bone marrow haematopoietic cells and their surrounding microenvironment. Phagocytes derived from the bone marrow of patients with active psoriasis exhibit enhanced monocytopoietic activity and hyperplasia in vitro. However, direct evidence supporting the hypothesis that bone marrow is involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis has yet to be established.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the involvement of bone marrow in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

METHODS

Bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) were isolated from patients with psoriasis and healthy individuals. The high proliferative potential colony-forming cells (HPP-CFCs), granulocyte-macrophage colony-forming units (CFU-GM) and erythroid colony-forming units (CFU-E) were cultured in the presence of defined cytokines, and the effects of secreted factors from psoriatic peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) on colony formation of normal haematopoietic cells were analysed. Furthermore, the telomere activity of psoriatic and normal BMMNCs was determined using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based telomeric repeat amplification protocol, while the expression of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) and HES1 mRNA was detected by reverse transcription-PCR assay.

RESULTS

The numbers of HPP-CFCs and CFU-GM, but not CFU-E, were significantly reduced in cultured haematopoietic cells from patients with psoriasis. The culture supernatant of PBMCs from patients with psoriasis was found to inhibit the colony formation capacity of HPP-CFCs, CFU-GM and CFU-E of normal haematopoietic cells. We also detected low levels of telomerase activity and hTERT gene expression in psoriatic and control BMMNCs that was statistically similar between the two groups. In contrast, the HES1 gene expression appeared to be significantly elevated in psoriatic BMMNCs (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Together, our results indicate the involvement of bone marrow in the immunopathogenesis of psoriasis, and suggest a mechanism mediated by certain inflammatory or haematopoietic cytokines present in the bone marrow microenvironment. Elevated expression levels of HES1 mRNA suggest a potential role for the Notch signalling pathway in this process.

The use of immunostimulating herbs in fish. An overview of research

The use of immunostimulants as an alternative to the drugs, chemicals and antibiotics currently being used to control fish diseases in fish culture is attracting the attention of many researchers. In this context, many have focused on the use of medicinal plant products as potential therapeutic measures for modulating the immune response and, specifically, on the use of herbs to prevent and control fish diseases. Medicinal plants (plant remedies) are a deeply rooted component of the cultural heritage of many people from diverse cultures and countries and are, as such, closely linked to the maintenance of good health. The aim of this paper is to review research currently being carried out on the herbs and herbal extracts that have been shown to modulate the immune system of fish. Special attention is given to the use of Chinese and Indian herbs.

Functional characterization of CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells differentiated in vitro from bone marrow-derived haematopoietic cells of psoriasis patients with a family history of the disorder

BACKGROUND

In psoriasis CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells are functionally deficient. The imbalance between regulatory and effector T-cell functions is important for inducing psoriasis. It is reasonable to speculate that the dysfunctional activity of CD4+CD25+ regulatory cells may originate partly from the abnormal haematopoietic cells determined mainly by genetic background.

OBJECTIVES

To test the hypothesis that haematopoietic stem cells are responsible for dysfunctional CD4+CD25+ regulatory cells in psoriasis.

METHODS

Bone marrow-derived CD34+ haematopoietic cells from patients with psoriasis (with a family history of psoriasis) and from normal controls were differentiated into T cells in vitro. CD4+CD25+ T cells were isolated by an immunomagnetic bead method, and proliferation activity and capacity for cytokine secretion were determined. Furthermore, the ability of CD4+CD25+ T cells to suppress the proliferative responses of allogeneous peripheral blood CD4+CD25- effector T cells was assessed in vitro.

RESULTS

The differentiated CD4+CD25+ T cells of psoriatic origin showed similar characteristics to those of normal volunteers, including proliferation activity and secretion profile of the cytokines interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-8, IL-10 and interferon (IFN)-gamma. However, proliferation and secretion levels of the cytokines IL-2 and IL-10 for CD4+CD25+ cells of psoriatic CD34+ cell origin were significantly lower than those of normal controls in response to streptococcal superantigen (Strep-A). In particular, CD4+CD25+ T cells differentiated from psoriatic CD34+ cells were functionally insufficient to restrain effector T-cell proliferation.

CONCLUSIONS

CD4+CD25+ T cells differentiated in vitro from haematopoietic cells of patients with psoriasis are impaired in regulatory function. The dysfunction of psoriatic CD4+CD25+ T cells may be due to inherent genetic programming passed down from bone marrow-derived haematopoietic cells.

The mRNA expression and promoter methylation status of the p16 gene in colony-forming cells with high proliferative potential in patients with psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Psoriasis is a chronic and relapsing inflammatory disease of the skin associated with various immune abnormalities. It is tempting to speculate that the dysfunctional immunity may influence the haematopoietic microenvironment or haematopoiesis in psoriasis. However, direct evidence of involvement of bone-marrow haematopoietic cells in the pathogenesis of psoriasis is lacking.

AIM

To investigate the proliferative activity of haematopoietic cells of patients with psoriasis and a link between the promoter methylation status and transcriptional activity of the p16 gene and the colony-forming ability of high proliferative potential colony-forming cells (HPP-CFCs).

METHODS

Marrow mononuclear cells were isolated from the bone marrow of patients with psoriasis and normal controls by density gradient centrifugation. A comparison of HPP-CFC colony formation counts between patients with psoriasis and normal controls was carried out by colony-forming assays of HPP-CFCs in methylcellulose semisolid culture medium in vitro. Subsequently, genomic DNA and RNA in HPP-CFCs were isolated, and mRNA expression and p16 promoter methylation status were studied by reverse transcriptase PCR and methylation-specific PCR (MSP), respectively.

RESULTS

In comparison with normal controls, patients with psoriasis showed less HPP-CFC colony formation in the methycellulose semisolid culture system, and showed upregulated mRNA transcriptional level and downregulated promoter methylation of p16.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrate for the first time the abnormal proliferative activity of haematopoietic cells in patients with psoriasis and a profound link between the promoter methylation status and transcriptional activity of p16 and the colony-forming ability of HPP-CFCs, suggesting that haematopoietic cells are involved in psoriasis.

Ethnic and geographical differences in systemic lupus erythematosus: an overview

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is one of the most heterogeneous autoimmune disorders known. There is production of a variety of autoantibodies and patients present with a wide range of symptoms due to multiple organ involvement by the disease process. The underlying cause is not fully understood but it may involve genetic and environmental factors. It is interesting to note that while SLE is found worldwide, it is more commonly found in some countries, and within a country certain ethnic groups appear to be more susceptible to develop this condition than others. Additionally, the presentation and course of SLE appear highly variable between patients of different ethnic origins. For example, African-Americans and Orientals are believed to have a more severe disease than Caucasian whites. But are these ethnic and geographical differences real? If yes, they may provide investigators insight into the underlying pathoaetiology of this condition and pave the way to future research directions in lupus.

Phase II prevention trial of celecoxib in women at increased risk for breast cancer

1501

Background: Tamoxifen and raloxifen reduce the risk of estrogen receptor (ER) positive breast cancer. Acceptance of SERMs is low due to toxicities. New agents with a better toxicity profile which also will prevent ER-negative breast cancer are needed. The cyclooxygenase II inhibitor celecoxib has antiproliferative, and antiangiogenetic properties and is a putative breast cancer prevention agent. Our objective in this prospective short-term prevention study was to evaluate the effect of celecoxib on biomarkers in breast tissue and serum of high risk women. Methods: High risk individuals with a history of atypical hyperplasia, or lobular carcinoma insitu, or Gail risk greater than 1.67%, or previous history of ER negative breast cancer were eligible. After signing informed consent subjects underwent baseline fine needle aspiration (FNA) of the breast and serum collection for biomarker analysis. Subjects started celecoxib at 400 mg po BID for 6 months and underwent repeat FNA and serum collection. Biomarker endpoints included changes in ER and KI-67 expression in breast tissue analyzed by immunohistochemistry and insulin like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP-1) in serum analyzed by ELISA. The difference in biomarkers before and after treatment was assessed using a Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results: 49 patients were enrolled and accrual has been completed. Median age was 51 years and 57% of women were postmenopausal. The mean pre- and post treatment ER expression was 35.5% and 31%, respectively. The difference in ER expression was not significant (p = 0.1). The mean pre- and post treatment KI-67 expression was 1.68% and 1.60%, respectively. The difference was not significant (p = 0.8). However, there was a statistically significant difference in pre- and post treatment IGFBP-1 levels (p=0.023), with pre-and post treatment levels being 6.81ng/ml and 11.51ng/ml, respectively. No grade 3 or 4 toxicities were observed and there was no drop-out from the study. Conclusions: We have found a significant modulation of IGFBP-1 levels with 6 months celecoxib treatment in women who are at increased risk of developing breast cancer. The acceptable side effect profile and modulation of the biomarker (IGFBP-1) provides support for continued evaluation of celecoxib as a breast cancer prevention agent.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

[Therapeutic effect of excision of hypomere esophagus and proximal stomach on portal hypertension and upper gastrointestinal bleeding]

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the therapeutic effect of excision of hypomere esophagus and proximal stomach (Phemister operation) on portal hypertension and upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

METHODS

Retrospectively analyze the clinical data of 136 cases treated with the Phemister operation for portal hypertension and upper gastrointestinal bleeding from August 1999 to May 2005.

RESULTS

Varication of the patients improved markedly, 50.8% of the varication disappeared completely, incidence of complications was 5.0%, rebleeding rate was 4.4%, mortality rate was 0.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The Phemister operation could treat the upper gastrointestinal bleeding and prevent rebleeding effectively in portal hypertension, it is a radical, precise and secure disconnection for portal hypertension with varication in fundus of stomach and esophagus.

Phase III study of docetaxel weekly (DW) versus every 3 weeks (D) in patients with metastatic breast cancer: Final results

574

Background: D is a semi-synthetic taxane with significant activity in breast cancer. D is usually administered on an every 3-weeks schedule, however, studies have demonstrated drug efficacy and a different toxicity profile when administered on a weekly basis. In this study we compared the weekly schedule versus every 3-weeks to define the safest schedule with the highest efficacy. Methods: Patients (Pts) were enrolled if they had stage IV breast cancer and had received no more than one prior chemotherapy regimen for metastatic disease. Prior treatment with D was not allowed but adjuvant paclitaxel (P) was allowed if > 12 months since the last dose. Pts were randomized to receive D at a starting dose of 75mg/m2 on day 1 or DW at a dose of 35 mg/m2/week for 3 weeks followed by 1 week of rest every 28 days. Doses could be escalated to 100 mg/m2 and 40mg/m2, respectively at the discretion of the investigator. Premedication with dexamethasone was given with each regimen. Results: From 1/2001 until 9/2004, a total of 125 pts were enrolled, 63 in the DW arm and 62 in the D arm. Thirty-nine and 10 pts had received prior anthracycline (A) and P respectively in the D arm while 32 and 11 pts had A and P in the DW arm. Median ages were 56 and 54 years in the D and DW arm, respectively. 118 pts were eligible for an efficacy analysis with a response rate of 35.6%; (95% CI, 23.6%, 49.1%) for the D arm vs 20.3%; (95% CI, 11.0%, 32.8%) for DW. There was no difference between D and DW in median PFS and OS, 5.7 vs 5.5 months (p = 0.46) and 18.3 vs 18.6 months (p = 0.34), respectively. There was a higher overall toxicity rate (grade 3 and 4) in the D arm vs DW, 88.1% vs 55.9% (p = 0.0001). There were 48 (81%) and 6 (10%) pts with grade ¾ granulocytopenia with 6 (10%) and 2 (3%) episodes of neutropenic fever in D vs DW, respectively. Grade 3/4 fatigue and myalgias were reported more often in D than DW, 15 (25%) and 8 (13.5%), and 16 (27%) and 2 (3%), respectively. Grade 3 epiphora was similar in both arms, 4 (7%) and 5 (8%) for D and DW, respectively. Conclusions: D has a higher response rate compare to DW but with a more pronounced toxicity profile. This needs to be kept in mind when making a treatment recommendation for patients with metastatic breast cancer. No difference in PFS or OS was observed between both arms.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Phase II breast cancer chemoprevention study with celecoxib in women at increased risk for breast cancer

1010

Background: Short-term chemoprevention trials offer a convenient model to screen chemopreventive agents and identify endpoint biomarkers. One of the potential agents is celecoxib (C), which has antiproliferative and apoptosis inducing properties. In this prospective study, our primary aim was to evaluate changes in proliferation induced by C in breast tissue of high risk women. Here, we report changes in estrogen receptor (ER) proliferation index. Methods: 42 eligible high risk women were enrolled into the study, underwent fine needle aspiration (FNA) and started celecoxib treatment at 400 mg BID. Median age: 51.9 years. Risk factors: Gail risk > 1.67% (n=13), lobular carcinoma insitu (n=13), atypical hyperplasia (n=11), previous history of breast cancer (n=5). For ER and Ki-67 testing, thin preparations slides were incubated with primary mouse monoclonal antibody 6F11 against the ER and clone MIB-1, respectively. Appropriate negative and positive controls were included. At least 100 epithelial cells were evaluated per slide. Immunoreactivity for each marker was scored as the percentage of positive nuclei. We assessed the difference in ER and Ki-67 levels before and after treatment using a Wilcoxon signed rank test. Results: The average pre-treatment ER expression in FNA samples was 35.9% and Ki-67 was 2.4%. 19 (45%) showed hyperplasia or atypical hyperplasia. 39 patients underwent also post-treatment FNAs. The pre-and post treatment ER expression in this group was 35.7% (range 0–100%) and 27.4% (range: 0–100%), respectively. The difference in ER levels was statistically significant (p = 0.04). Twenty-six patients had Ki-67 levels measured both before and after treatment. The median difference in Ki-67 levels was 0 (range 0- 5). This change was not statistically significant (p = 0.63). Conclusions: We have completed accrual to a prospective short-term chemoprevention trial with celecoxib. We have found a significant downregulation of ER expression with 6 months celecoxib. Since ER expression is a marker of proliferation, this finding confirms celecoxibs antiproliferative properties. Currently, we have not observed a change in Ki-67; this could be partly due to the small number of samples and the fact that Ki-67 is low in normal epithelium.

[Table: see text]

Upregulation and activation of PKC alpha by ErbB2 through Src promotes breast cancer cell invasion that can be blocked by combined treatment with PKC alpha and Src inhibitors

Although ErbB2 is known to enhance breast cancer metastasis, the signaling events responsible for this remain elusive. Alpha-isozyme of protein kinase C (PKCalpha), which is involved in cancer development and progression, has been suggested to be activated by ErbB2 without direct evidence. In addition, the roles of PKCalpha in ErbB2-mediated cancer cell malignancy have not been clearly identified. In this study, we investigated whether ErbB2 can activate PKCalpha and determined what role PKCalpha plays in ErbB2-mediated breast cancer cell invasion. We expressed wild-type and mutant ErbB2 with altered signaling capacities in MDA-MB-435 breast cancer cells and revealed that overexpression or activation of ErbB2 in MDA-MB-435 cells upregulated and activated PKCalpha and that downregulation of ErbB2 by small-interfering RNA decreased the expression and activity of PKCalpha in BT474 breast cancer cells. These in vitro results were supported by data from breast cancer patient samples. In 150 breast cancer tumor samples, ErbB2-overexpressing tumors showed significantly higher positive rates of PKCalpha membrane immunohistochemistry staining than that of ErbB2-low-expressing tumors. Mechanistically, we found that PKCalpha is co-immunoprecipitated with Src and PKCalpha expression and activity can be decreased by Src inhibitor PP2 and by the expression of a dominant-negative mutant of Src. Moreover, ErbB2-mediated upregulation of urokinase-type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) is reduced by either the PKCalpha inhibitor Go6976 or the Src inhibitor PP2, and the combination of Go6976 with PP2 is superior to either agent alone in suppressing uPAR expression and cell invasion. These results demonstrate that PKCalpha is critical for ErbB2-mediated cancer cell invasion and provide valuable insights for current and future PKCalpha and Src inhibitor clinical trials.

Variation of CD4+ and CD8+ T Lymphocytes as Predictor of Outcome in Renal Allograft Recipients Who Developed Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Caused by Cytomegalovirus Pneumonia

INTRODUCTION

We investigated the variation of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in renal allograft recipients who developed acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and their relationship to patients outcome.

METHODS

Twenty one cadaveric renal allograft recipients who developed ARDS caused by CMV infection were enrolled in this study. CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes were examined in peripheral blood on five occasions: the admission day (day 0) to ICU as ARDS, day 5, day 10, day 15 in ICU, and discharge day. A value taken in the second month after transplantation was assumed to be the preinfection value.

RESULTS

Among 13 surviving patients, the numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and their ratio increased as the patients recovered. The numbers of CD4+ T cells increased significantly on day 10, day 15, and at discharge day compared with day 0 (P < .05). The number of CD8+ T cells on discharge day and the ratios after day 10 were also significantly higher than those on day 0 (P < .05). In eight nonsurviving patients, the numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells and their ratio was similar to day 0. The number of CD4+ and CD8+ cells after day 5 and their ratio after day 10 were significantly lower than those of survival group (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

The variations of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes and their ratio are useful indicators of the severity of disease and the outcome of patients with CMV infections accompanying ARDS after renal transplantation. Nevertheless, it may be helpful to evaluate the efficiency of ongoing treatment methods in these patients.

Intravenous delivery of an endostatin gene complexed in cationic lipid inhibits systemic angiogenesis and tumor growth in murine models

Inhibition of the neovascularization of tumors has proven efficacious in reducing tumor growth and metastases. Attaining antiangiogenesis through cationic lipid-based systemic gene therapy presents an attractive approach to the treatment of disseminated and primary cancers. Intravenous administration of an endostatin plasmid, complexed with a cationic lipid system, produced significant levels of endostatin in the lung and the circulation. The expressed endostatin blocked systemic angiogenesis and inhibited tumor growth in murine models. Cytokine induction by cationic lipid/DNA complex increased the anti-tumor activities of endostatin. These results demonstrate the possibility of using cationic lipid delivery of an antiangiogenic gene for cancer treatment.

Testosterone inhibits apoptosis of Leishmania donovani-infected macrophages

AIM

Investigate the effect of the male sex hormone, testosterone (Te), on apoptosis of bone marrow derived macrophages (BMMs) from female C57BL/6j mice

METHODS

Propidium iodide (PI) staining and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) techniques were used to investigate apoptosis specific-morphological changes. BMMs derived from Te-treated mice and Oil-treated mice were challenged with Leishmania donovani (L. d.), Oligo-nucleosomal DNA were extracted 24 h post infection to detect apoptosis.

RESULTS

The removal of M-CSF from the medium could induce BMM apoptofsis. And the DNA fragmentation assay also indicated that: 1. there was no difference in the amount of apoptotic cells between Te and Oil group; 2. Te + L. d. group had significantly less dead cells than Oil + L. d. group demonstrating that Te could prevent apoptosis of macrophage infected with L. d. to a greater extent.

CONCLUSION

Te inhibits apoptosis of the macrophages infected with L. d., however, this inhibition did not occur in the macrophages uninfected with L. d. Te-induced macrophage apoptosis-inhibition may play an important role in Te-induced immunosuppression.

Effect of testosterone on Leishmania donovani infection levels of murine bone marrow derived-macrophages

AIM

To investigate the effect of the male sex hormone, testosterone (Te), on Leishmania donovani infection levels of bone marrow derived macrophages(BMMs) from female mice of strain C57BL/6J.

METHODS

After three weeks of Te-treatment, the BMMs were isolated, challenged with L. donovani at a ratio of 10 to 1 promastigotes per macrophage, and the infection levels of different time points were monitored by Giemsa staining.

RESULTS

BMMs from Te-treated mice had a significantly increased initial uptake(3 h post infection, P < 0.05) of promastigotes and carried heavier infection levels at all time points(24 h, 48 h, 72 h post infection, P < 0.01), compared with those from oil treated controls.

CONCLUSION

Te can increase L. donovani infection levels of BMMs, being possibly related to Te-induced immunosuppression.

[Production of vitamin C precursor--2-keto-L-gulonic acid from D-sorbitol by mixed culture of microorganisms]

Gluconobacter oxydans SCB329 only produce a little amount of 2-Keto-L-gulonic acid(2-KLG) from D-Sorbitol when growing alone; while Gluconobacter sp. SCB110 can transform D-Sorbitol to L-Sorbose and can not produce 2-KLG. 2-Keto-L-gulonic acid, the precursor of L-Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) synthesis, was prepared directly with a high efficiency from D-Sorbitol by mixed culture of microorganism, which comprised Gluconobacter sp. SCB110 and Gluconobacter oxydans SCB329. The fermentation product from the mixed culture broth in the D-Sorbotol-containing medium was identified as 2-Keto-L-gulonic acid by HPLC, elementary analysis and infra-red adsorption spectrum.

Cyclosporin A treatment for idiopathic membranous nephropathy

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of cyclosporin A (CSA) in the treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN), a prospective controlled clinical study was performed.

METHODS

This study included a group of 30 IMN patients, among them 15 were treated with CSA and 15 with captopril (CAP). The diagnosis of IMN was made with exclusion of secondary forms of membranous nephropathy by extensive clinical and pathological studies. No patients received steroids or cytotoxic agents for six months prior to enrollment. In the CSA group, CSA was given at an initial dosage of 5 mg.kg-1.d-1, gradually tailed off over the first three months and maintained at 2 mg.kg-1.d-1 for 12 months. In the CAP group, CAP was given at a dosage of 37.5 mg/day.

RESULTS

In the first three months, 6 (6/15) complete remissions (CR) and 2 (2/15) partial remissions (PR) were observed in the CSA group while only 2 (2/15) PRs were observed in the CAP group. Before the end of the 15-months, 8 patients in the CSA group experienced CR and 4 patients experienced PR. One CR patient relapsed as the dosage of CSA was reduced, so 7 patients remained in CR at the end of the first 15-months. No additional CR or PR was observed in the CAP group during late follow-up. At the last visit (an average follow-up time of 44 months) in the CSA-group, another 2 CR patients had relapsed and 1 CR patient shifted to PR after stopping the CSA treatment, so 4 CR and 5 PR remained in the CSA group. In the CAP group, 3 spontaneous CRs occurred beyond 1.5 year's follow-up, with 3 CR and 2 PR at the last visit. No difference was found between the averages of the initial and the last serum creatinine levels in either group. No serious adverse effects were found during CSA treatment. Re-biopsy data of three patients responsive to CSA treatment showed that no pathological improvement of glomerular basement membrane was observed, even in cases at remission. Tubulointerstitial fibrosis was found in 1 relapsed CR patient, whose serum creatinine increased above the normal range, but not in the other 2 patients whose serum creatinine remained in the normal range.

CONCLUSIONS

CSA therapy at a dosage of 5 mg.kg-1.d-1 is effective in inducing remission of nephrotic syndrome in adult IMN patients within three months, with a response rate of 80%. A relatively high rate of relapse (50%) was observed within 2 years after the withdrawal of CSA treatment.

[Studies on the genome size and structure of Gluconobacter oxydans SCB329]

In the "Two-step fermentation" of Vitamin C synthesis, Gluconobacter oxydans SCB329 is responsible for the production of 2-keto-L-gulonic acid (2-KLG), which is an important precuror of vitamin C synthesis. The intact chromosome was prepared from logarithmic phase cells by agaraseembedded method and was analysized by restriction endonucleases and contour-clamped homogeneous electric field pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE). Spe I (5-ACTAGT) produced 24 fragments, ranging in size from 10 to 320 kilobases (kb). Xba I (5-TCTAGA) yielded 40 fragments (4 to 200 kb). A total genome size of approximately 2,700 kb was determined by summing the fragment length. Analysis of the entire genome of SCB329 by PFGE revealed that the genome of SCB329 consist of a chromosome which is 2,500 Kb in length and a large plasmid which is 245 kb. After linearization of the DNA by DNase I and S1 nuclease, in contrast with the band which can not be viewed, the band of chromosome and plasmid were appeared, this suggest that structure of the chromosome and the plasmid were circular.

[Study on preparation and properties of moisture permeable polyurethane membrane used for dressings]

A new hydrophilic polyurethane(PU) performed-polymer has been developed with polyethylene glycol(PEG) instead of general polyether. The solution of performed-polymer is poured casting a permeable membrane used for the outer layer of the bilayer dressings. The effects of molecular weigh (Mn) of PEG, the usage of cross-link agents, solvents and water in the solution on the moisture permeation of PU membrane have been studied. It has been shown that the membrane prepared is a porous moisture permeable membrane. The optimum conditions of preparing membrane are: Mn of PEG is 2,000-4,000, the mixture of acetone and N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) is used as solvents, and the temperature of performance membrane is 50 degrees C-80 degrees C. The moisture permeability of the PU membrane is 49-60 g/m2.h at 35 degrees C, which can meet the requirement of the wound dressings. In addition, the mechanism of the moisture permeation of PU membrane has been discussed.

Oscillatory electroosmosis-enhanced intra/inter-particle liquid transport and its primary applications in the preparative electrochromatography of proteins

The concept of generating an oscillatory electroosmotic flux inside the porous particle to enhance the intra-particle mass transport was presented and a new kind of electrochromatography carried out in a five-compartment electrolyzer were developed. The adsorbent was packed in the central compartment, while the neighboring compartments were used as the elution compartments and the electrode compartments, respectively. Chromatographic separations of human serum albumin on Blue Sepharose Fast Flow, bovine serum albumin (BSA) on DEAE-Sepharose Fast Flow, and BSA on hydroxyapatite were carried out, respectively. The adsorption isotherms were shown to be independent of electric field, while the increase in the electric field strength resulted in a linear increase in the magnitude of electroosmotic flux and the improvement of the breakthrough behavior in all cases. The experiment results have demonstrated the effectiveness of the oscillatory electroosmosis in enhancing intra- and inter-particle mass transport and its high potential to large-scale chromatography.

Mass transport characteristics and chromatographic behavior of preparative electrochromatography on hydroxyapatite

Introducing an electric field into chromatography on hydroxyapatite (HAP) was attempted in order to enhance mass transfer and separation performance. A membrane spaced multicompartment electrolyzer was developed for electrochromatography on HAP. The high performance of liquid transport by electroosmotic flux was identified and described in terms of dynamic electroosmotic pressure. The application of the electric field resulted in an improved adsorption of bovine serum albumin as shown by the breakthrough curve as function of the electric field. An improved elution was also obtained in the presence of the electric field. The results show that electroosmosis is a powerful tool of liquid transport and dispersion in a packed bed of fine particles and has potential in the large-scale chromatography of biological molecules.

Laminar flow inhibits TNF-induced ASK1 activation by preventing dissociation of ASK1 from its inhibitor 14-3-3

The inflammatory cytokine TNF-alpha stimulates several presumed pro-atherogenic signaling events in endothelial cells (ECs), including activation of c-Jun NH(2)-terminal kinase (JNK) and induction of E-selectin. Here, we show that apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), a MAP kinase kinase kinase, is required for TNF-mediated JNK activation. TNF activates ASK1 in part by dissociating ASK1 from its inhibitor 14-3-3. Because the risk of atherosclerosis is decreased in regions of steady laminar flow, we hypothesized that laminar flow inhibits proinflammatory cytokine-mediated activation of JNK. Steady laminar flow inhibited both TNF activation of ASK1 and JNK. Inhibition of ASK1 by flow correlated with increased association of ASK1 with 14-3-3. A constitutively active form of ASK1 lacking the 14-3-3-binding site (ASK1-Delta NS967A) was not inhibited by flow. These data establish ASK1 as a target for flow-mediated inhibition of cytokine signaling and indicate a novel role for 14-3-3 as an anti-inflammatory mediator in ECs.

[Effects of taurine on brain development and learning ability in filial mice fed with high iodine]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effects of taurine on brain development and learning ability in filial mice fed with high iodine.

METHODS

Mice were divided into three groups, the first one fed with adequate dose of iodine, the second with high-dose iodine, and the third with high-dose iodine plus 0.6% taurine. All the male and female mice were mated three months after treatment. Relevant biochemical indicators in the brain tissues and their memory and learning ability were measured for their offsprings with 30 days old in the three groups.

RESULTS

Brain contents of protein and DNA reduced in the high-dose iodine group, and there was no significant difference in them between groups with taurine and adequate-dose iodine 30 days after their birth. Activity of acetylcholine esterase (ACHE) increased and content of acetylcholine decreased in the hippocampus of filial mice at age of 30 days with high-dose iodine. Content of acetylcholine increased in the filial mice with high-dose iodine plus taurine than that with adequate-dose iodine, but there was no statistically significant difference in ACHE between them.

CONCLUSION

Taurine could antagonize disturbance of brain development in filial mice caused by high-dose iodine.

[Determination of chromosome of Gluconobacter oxydans SCB329]

After the pure culture of Gluconobacter oxydans SCB329 was researched, its growth curve was measured and its logarithmic phase was determined as between 4-24 h. After the microorganisms were havested in its logarithmic phase, The intact chromosome was prepared by agarose-embedded method. Then the genome of SCB329 was analyzed by Pulsed-field Gel Electrophoresis. The result indicated that there are one chromosome and one great plasmid. The length of intact chromosome of SCB329 has been estimated to be approximately between 2.2 Mb and 3.5 Mb.

[Study on statistical method of distribution for erythrocyte morphological features by computerized image processing]

This study sought to develop a new statistic method for the semiautomatic analysis and classification of erythrocyte morphology based on the morphological features and shape analysis of erythrocytes by computer image processing. Shape factor as the description of the erythrocyte morphological features was used for the shape classification of erythrocytes. And the models and algorithms of erythrocytes image segmentation, cell body shape recognition and measure can be implemented through the VC++. The present method can efficiently and semi-automatically provide the statistical analysis of erythrocyte morphology, and can give the distribution of erythrocyte morphological features. The result showed that there was a significant difference between the distribution curves of the normal erythrocyte morphology (one apex) and hemolytic anemia's (two apices). By this way, it can be obtained the proportion data of different cell bodies' shapes. This method could provide some information for the study and diagnosis of the diseases (e.g. hemolytic anemia, pre-leukemia) related to erythrocyte morphology.

[Studies on gene knocking out of 2-keto aldose reductases from Erwinia sp. SCB125]

Based on the reported gene sequences, the segments containing 2-keto aldose reductase (2-KRA and B) genes were amplified by PCR from the plasmids and Erwinia sp. SCB125 each for gene expression and gene knocking out. Then cloning them into expression vector pBL and successfully expressing them with high enzyme activity in E. coli DH5 alpha. After their enzyme activities were proved, the work on gene knock out followed. Introducing the knock-out vector which distribute unstably during the cell division to the host strains Erwinia sp. SCB125. Screening firstly by the positive marker, one resistance which resulted from the expression of the resistance gene inserting inside the reductase genes and the negative marker, another resistance which outside the reductase genes in the vector. The strains selected out will be tested by further study. This work was the bases of blocking the pathway metabolism and constructing a recombinant strain that can produce 2-KLG directly from D-glucose by one-step fermentation.

[Effect of Weikangfu granule on ultrastructure of gastric mucosa in patients of precancerosis with spleen deficiency syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of Weikangfu Granule (WKFG) on the ultrastructure of gastric mucosa.

METHODS

WKFG was used to treat 61 patients with gastric mucosa intestinal metaplasia or atypical proliferation, and histopathological and ultrastructural examination on gastric mucosa of antral region obtained through gastroscopy were conducted before and after treatment.

RESULTS

After treatment, the histopathology and intestinal metaplasia subset of antral focal region, and the background lesion in ultrastructure of the mucosa in the nonfocal region were all improved in the 4 groups, The effects of Spleen-Qi Deficiency syndrome group and Spleen-Yang Deficiency group were superior to Ying-Deficiency group as well as Spleen-Deficiency and Qi-Stagnation group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01), and approached to those in the healthy control group.

CONCLUSION

WKFG improves the quantitative balance of internal bioactive substances to maintain the homeostasis, promotes the ultrastructural normalization of mucosa so as to cure the clinical symptoms and reverse the intestinal metaplasia and atypical proliferation of mucosa.

[Effects of excessive iodine on apoptosis and expression of bcl-2, bax genes in the cells of brain and thyroid gland in guinea pigs]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of excessive iodine intake on apoptosis and the expression of bcl-2, bax genes in the cells of brain and thyroid gland.

METHODS

Guinea pigs, divided into two groups at random, were fed with distilled water containing iodine 50 microg/L (a control group with appropriate iodine) and 10,000 microg/L (a trial group with excessive iodine), respectively for six months. Apoptosis rate and expression of bcl-2, bax gene in the cells of cerebral cortex, hippocampus and thyroid gland in guinea pigs were quantitatively determined by flow cytometry and immunofluorescent techniques.

RESULTS

The proportion of apoptosis in the cells of cerebral cortex, hippocampus and thyroid gland was significantly higher in the group with excessive iodine intake than that in the control one (P < 0.01). The level of expression of bcl-2 gene was notably decreased (P < 0.05), but that of bax was notably increased (P < 0.01), in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and thyroid gland in the group with excessive iodine than in the control one. The ratio of bcl-2 to bax in the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and thyroid gland of the group with excessive iodine was decreased significantly (P < 0.01) than that of the control one.

CONCLUSION

Excessive iodine intake may induce apoptosis in the cells of cerebral cortex, hippocampus and thyroid gland. The over-expression of bax gene and the down-regulation of bcl-2, which can then cause the decrease in a ratio of bcl-2 to bax, appear to play an important role in the course of apoptosis induced by excessive iodine intake.

[Therapeutic effect of weikangfu on gastric precancerous disorder with spleen deficiency syndrome and its effect of gastric mucosal zinc, copper, cyclic adenosine monophosphate, superoxide dismutase, lipid peroxide and 3H-TdR lymphocyte conversion test]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the clinical therapeutic effect of Weikangfu granule (WKF) on intestinal metaplasia (IM), atypical proliferation (ATP) and its therapeutic mechanism.

METHODS

Sixty-one patients (treated group) were diagnosed by integrated TCM and western medicine (WM), and treated according to Syndrome Differentiation, the amount of WKF was adjusted according to various Syndromes. The control group consisted of 54 patients, took Weisu granule without considering their Syndromes. Besides, 15 healthy subjects comprised of the control group. Gastroscopy was conducted both before and after the treatment, mucosal sample was taken from antral region of stomach for pathological changes, for IM classification through histochemical staining and for determination of gastric mucosal Zn, Cu, cAMP, SOD, serum LPO and 3H-TdR lymphocyte conversion test (LCT).

RESULTS

(1) The symptomatic and pathologic therapeutic effect of the treated group were markedly better than those of the control group (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). (2) The levels of gastric mucosal Zn, Cu, cAMP, SOD and 3H-TdR LCT of the treated group before treatment were all lower than that of the healthy control group, but they were markedly increased after treatment, while serum LPO, however, increased before treatment, significant difference existed between the above groups (P < 0.05, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

WKF can reverse IM and ATP of Spleen Deficiency Syndrome through the mechanism of improving the level of gastric mucosal Zn, Cu, cAMP and SOD, promoting cytodifferentiation, improving cytoimmunity, reducing superoxide and LPO.

[Effects of excessive iodine on activity of enolase in hippocampus of developing mice]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of excessive intake of iodine for a long term on activity of enolase in hippocampal tissues of young mice.

METHODS

A hyperiodine goiter animal model was replicated with drinking water with high level of iodine. Activity of neuron specific enolase (NSE) in hippocampal tissues was determined with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for young offspring of the first and the second generations of mice with hyperiodine goiter on the 7th, 14th and 21st day of age, respectively.

RESULTS

Activity of enolase in young offspring of the first and second generation of mice with hyperiodine goiter was all lower than that in controls from the day of their birth to the 30th day after birth, and that at hippocampal tissues in young mice of the second generation was significantly lower than that of the first generation on the 14th day of age.

CONCLUSION

Hyperiodine can decrease activity of NSE in the brain of mice. It suggests that hyperiodine can affect NSE, and thus interfere energy supply in the brain, resulting in disturbance of neuron development and brain function.

[Histocytopathological study on gastric mucosa of spleen deficiency syndrome]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the pictures of gastric mucosa of Spleen deficiency syndrome, and the relationship between the degree of pathological changes of gastric mucosa and types of Spleen deficiency syndrome.

METHODS

One hundred and eighty-eight Spleen deficiency patients with organic diseases of heart, lung, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, intestine and kidney excluded were examined their gastric mucosa. Tests of histopathology and subcellular ultrastructure were conducted by using optical microscope, electron scanning microscope, electron transmission microscope and histochemical staining methods.

RESULTS

The gastric mucosa of Spleen Qi deficiency and Spleen Yang deficiency patients could either be affected with organic lesion (type G) or unaffected (type F); the gastric mucosa of Spleen Yin deficiency and Spleen deficiency with Qi stagnation were both affected by gastric lesions, and the degree of their lesions was more serious than that of Spleen Qi deficiency of type G and Spleen Yang deficiency of type G, P < 0.05-0.01.

CONCLUSION

Pathological changes did not necessarily occur in the gastric mucosa of Spleen deficiency patients; the degree of pathological changes was relevant with the evolution of Spleen deficiency types.

[Post-operative respiratory failure in lung cancer patients.]

BACKGROUND

To explore the reasons , prevention and treatment measures of post-operative respiratory failure in lung cancer patients.

METHODS

Mechanical ventilation was given to 26 lung cancer patients with post-operative respiratory failure in our hospital fromJanuary 1990 to October 1997 , and 19 out of them received tracheotomy.

RESULTS

The incidence of post-operative respiratory failure was 4. 7 %(26/558) . Twenty cases were cured and 6 died (23. 1 %) .

CONCLUSIONS

Respiratory tract infection , operative wound , incision pain , abnormal pre-operative cardio-pulmonary function , etc , are the major reasons which caused post-operative respiratory failure. Correct diagnosis , tracheotomy as early as possible and mechanical ventilation are the most efficient ways to save lifes. Strengthening management on respiratory tract in peri-operative period and avoiding post-operative complications are the keys of preventing post-operative respiratory failure.

[Cloning and expression in E. coli of 2,5-DKG reductase I from Corynebacterium]

Two different 2,5-DKG reductases was purified from Corynebacterium sp. SCB3058, then its genomic DNA was used as template, a segment containing 2,5-DKG reductase I was amplified by PCR and cloned into pGEM3zf(+) to obtain the recombinant plasmid pGEM813. The sequence analysis showed that the cloned segment was 1107 bp in length, contained a single open reading frame of 834 nucleotides, which encoded a 34 kD protein consisted of 278 amino acids. After the primary control sequence was deleted, the expression vector pBL4 was constructed by plasmid pBL. With induction of temperature, a 34 kD protein was specifically expressed in E. coli DH5 alpha in high level. The expressed recombinant protein accounted for 20% of the total cell protein and had high specific enzyme activity. In spite of 30 degrees C, 37 degrees C or 42 degrees C induction, the specific activity of enzyme was almost the same level. These results indicate that most of the recombinant protein induced at 42 degrees C was existed with inclusion bodies. This work was the bases of constructing a recombinant Erwinia which can produce 2-KLG directly from D-glucose by one-step fermentation.

[Immune modulatory and therapeutic effect of lentinan on condyloma acuminatum]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the immune modulatory and therapeutic effect of lentinan on condyloma acuminatum (CA).

METHODS

Thirty-six CA patients were randomly divided into two groups, 19 in the test group treated with lentinan plus CO2 laser irradiation and 17 in the control group treated with laser irradiation alone. Their T-lymphocyte subsets of peripheral blood and level of serum interleukin-2 (IL-2) and soluable interleukin-2 receptor (SIL-2R) were determined before and after treatment, and the recurrence rates of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

After treatment, in the test group, the CD4/CD8 ratio, serum IL-2 raised and serum SIL-2R lowered significantly (P < 0.05, 0.05, 0.05 respectively) as compared with before treatment, while those parameters were not changed significantly in the control group. The recurrence rate of the test group was lower than that of the control group, P < 0.05.

CONCLUSION

Lentinan could modulate the cellular immunofunction of CA patients and reduce the recurrence rate of CA.