Changes in laboratory results for cancer patients treated with interleukin-2

The systemic administration of interleukin-2 (IL-2) can lead to significant antitumor responses in some patients with metastatic cancer in whom standard therapy has failed. A limitation of this immunotherapy is the toxicity associated with IL-2 infusion. To assess toxicity, we determined aspartate aminotransferase (AST; EC 2.6.1.1), alanine aminotransferase (ALT; EC 2.6.1.2), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT; EC 2.3.2.2), lactate dehydrogenase (LD; EC 1.1.1.27), alkaline phosphatase (ALP; EC 3.1.3.1), creatine kinase (CK; EC 2.7.3.2), total bilirubin (TBI), direct bilirubin (DBI), creatinine, urea nitrogen, and C-reactive protein in serum from 21 patients before and during five consecutive days of IL-2 treatment. Ten patients were followed for an additional five days after the end of IL-2 therapy. The IL-2 infusion caused liver toxicity and prerenal azotemia, as evidenced by significant increases (P less than 0.05) of all analytes except CK by day 1. There was a progressive increase in the results (except CK) for these tests until IL-2 treatment was stopped. Seven tests related to liver function (AST, ALT, GGT, LD, ALP, DBI, and TBI) showed increases, but the test results indicated significant improvement and moved toward the baseline value five days after the end of IL-2 therapy. Concentrations of creatinine and urea nitrogen in serum were normal three days after the cessation of IL-2 therapy.

Prevalence of thyroid abnormalities in patients with dermatitis herpetiformis and in control subjects with HLA-B8/-DR3

PURPOSE

The prevalence of thyroid dysfunction as measured by the presence of overt thyroid disease, abnormal results of thyroid function tests, or antithyroid antibodies was compared in patients with dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) and a normal control group who had the HLA-B8/-DR3 haplotype.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study population consisted of 56 patients with DH and 26 control subjects with the HLA-B8/-DR3 haplotype. All were examined for thyroid function abnormalities and thyroid autoantibodies.

RESULTS

Patients with DH had a statistically significant increase in the prevalence of abnormal thyroid function test results and autoantibodies: 32% versus 4% for controls (Z = 2.01, p less than 0.02). In patients with DH, hypothyroidism was the most common thyroid abnormality (12 of 56) followed by hyperthyroidism (four of 56). Two patients had normal thyroid function test results with thyroid autoantibodies. Risk factors for thyroid abnormalities in patients with DH were increasing age (chi 2 = 6.55, p less than 0.02, significant) and the presence of thyroid microsomal antibodies. The HLA-B8/-DR3 haplotype was not a risk factor for thyroid abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

The findings suggest that thyroid disease is independently associated with DH. Examination of patients with DH should include thyroid function tests along with assays for antithyroid antibodies.

Changes in brainstem and cortical auditory potentials during Qi-Gong meditation

"Qi Gong" (QG) is a meditation exercise known for thousands of years in China and has always been widely practiced. It has been claimed to have a variety of healing and other health benefits. To provide an understanding of the effect of QG on brain structures along the whole neural axis from the periphery to the cerebral cortex, we have monitored short-latency auditory brainstem evoked response, middle-latency response, and long-latency cortical auditory evoked potentials, before, during, and after QG. Our results showed that QG caused an enhancement of brainstem auditory evoked response with a concomitant depression of cortical responses. These observations may be related to the healing and other health benefits of QG.

High-frequency components in epileptiform EEG

We analyzed the spectral content of interictal and ictal EEG of rats treated with metrazol. Significant power was present in the EEG between 100 and 800 Hz ictally but not interictally. Since high-frequency activities appeared to accompany spiking episodes, a computer algorithm was developed to recognize rapid voltage fluctuations or high-frequency components in EEG. The algorithm turned out to be effective in the identification of seizure spikes. The significance of high frequencies in EEG spikes and the advantage of the spike selection algorithm are discussed.

The product of the retinoblastoma susceptibility gene has properties of a cell cycle regulatory element

The retinoblastoma susceptibility gene product, Rb, is suspected to suppress cell growth. Rb is a 110-114 kd nuclear phosphoprotein. We have previously demonstrated that SV40 T antigen binds only to unphosphorylated Rb, and not pp112-114Rb, the family of phosphorylated Rb. Here we demonstrate the cell cycle-dependent phosphorylation of Rb. In G0/G1 cells, virtually all the Rb is unphosphorylated. In contrast, during S and G2, it is largely, if not exclusively, phosphorylated. Rb phosphorylation occurs at the G1/S boundary in several cell types tested. A 14 residue peptide, corresponding to the SV40 T domain required for transformation, is able to compete effectively with SV40 T for binding to p110Rb. We propose a model to explain how Rb may suppress cell growth by acting as a cell cycle regulatory element.

[Basic studies on oral administration of lentinan (I)--influence on lymphocyte subsets in peripheral venous blood]

The effect of oral administration of lentinan (LTN), a biological response modifier, in the control of systemic immune function was studied in 6-week old male Wistar-Imamichi SPF rats. In the LTN group, 1 mg LTN dissolved in 1 ml physiological saline was administration forcibly into the stomach twice weekly. Physiological saline alone was administered in a similar fashion to the control group. Blood samples were obtained prior to and after four and eight weeks of administration. White blood cells and lymphocyte counts were obtained and lymphocyte subsets were measured using monoclonal antibodies W3/13, W3/25 and 0 X 8 (Sera-Lab), and a laser flow cytometry system (Orthospectrum III, Orthodiagnostic System). The T cell ratio, helper/inducer T (Th) cell ratio, and suppressor/cytotoxic T (Ts) cell ratio were measured. The peripheral white blood cell count and lymphocyte count were not significantly different between the control and LTN groups. After four weeks of LTN administration, however, the LTN group showed a significantly higher T cell ratio, Th cell ratio and Th/Ts cell ratio than did the control group, and the Ts cell ratio was significantly lower. In the groups undergoing administration for eight weeks, no difference was noted in the lymphocyte subsets between the two groups. Oral administration of LTN apparently modulates the systemic immune function through T cell stimulation, especially Th cells, but continued administration may induce a tolerance to the effect of LTN.

IL-6/IFN-beta-2 as a circulating hormone. Induction by cytokine administration in humans

IL-6/IFN-beta 2 is a family of phosphoglycoproteins ranging in size from 19 to 30 kDa which elicits a broad range of physiologic and immune responses. Several cytokines, including TNF, have been shown to stimulate IL-6 production in cell culture. In this report, we describe the rapid induction of circulating biologically active IL-6 by the systemic administration of rTNF to patients with cancer. Low levels of IL-6 activity could be detected in the sera of patients as early as 5 min after rTNF infusion. IL-6 levels peaked approximately 2 to 3 h after rTNF bolus administration and were undetectable in most cases within 8 h. IL-6 was detected in two separate bioassays--the hybridoma B9 proliferation and the hepatocyte-stimulating factor assay. Maximum detectable levels of IL-6 ranged from 160 to 310 hybridoma growth factor units and 11-82 ng/ml in the hepatocyte-stimulating factor assay. IL-6 induction decreased after serial, daily doses of rTNF. Serial serum samples of patients receiving IL-2 or IFN-alpha were also assayed for IL-6 production. IL-2-treated but not IFN-alpha-treated patients generated low levels of IL-6 (range less than 20 to 95 hybridoma growth factor units/ml). Interestingly, in patients treated with IL-2, serum levels of TNF were detectable and peak TNF activity preceded measurable IL-6 levels. Serum levels of acute phase plasma proteins and of corticosteroid rose in response to rTNF administration. C-reactive protein increased (2.5 to 4.0-fold) within 8 h of rTNF administration and cortisol levels rose (10- to 20-fold) within 4 h after rTNF injection. We conclude that rTNF administration in man leads to the induction of circulating IL-6 which, due to its broad range of activities, may be an important physiologic signal regulating the immune response.

IL-6/IFN-beta-2 as a circulating hormone. Induction by cytokine administration in humans

IL-6/IFN-beta 2 is a family of phosphoglycoproteins ranging in size from 19 to 30 kDa which elicits a broad range of physiologic and immune responses. Several cytokines, including TNF, have been shown to stimulate IL-6 production in cell culture. In this report, we describe the rapid induction of circulating biologically active IL-6 by the systemic administration of rTNF to patients with cancer. Low levels of IL-6 activity could be detected in the sera of patients as early as 5 min after rTNF infusion. IL-6 levels peaked approximately 2 to 3 h after rTNF bolus administration and were undetectable in most cases within 8 h. IL-6 was detected in two separate bioassays--the hybridoma B9 proliferation and the hepatocyte-stimulating factor assay. Maximum detectable levels of IL-6 ranged from 160 to 310 hybridoma growth factor units and 11-82 ng/ml in the hepatocyte-stimulating factor assay. IL-6 induction decreased after serial, daily doses of rTNF. Serial serum samples of patients receiving IL-2 or IFN-alpha were also assayed for IL-6 production. IL-2-treated but not IFN-alpha-treated patients generated low levels of IL-6 (range less than 20 to 95 hybridoma growth factor units/ml). Interestingly, in patients treated with IL-2, serum levels of TNF were detectable and peak TNF activity preceded measurable IL-6 levels. Serum levels of acute phase plasma proteins and of corticosteroid rose in response to rTNF administration. C-reactive protein increased (2.5 to 4.0-fold) within 8 h of rTNF administration and cortisol levels rose (10- to 20-fold) within 4 h after rTNF injection. We conclude that rTNF administration in man leads to the induction of circulating IL-6 which, due to its broad range of activities, may be an important physiologic signal regulating the immune response.

A clinical controlled trial of endoscopic sclerotherapy for repeated esophageal variceal bleeding

Thirty-seven patients with postnecrotic cirrhosis of the liver and 13 patients with primary hepatoma were proven to have repeated bleeding from ruptured esophageal varices. Clinically controlled trials were performed by assigning patients to either sclerotherapy or control arms (25 patients each). Combined intra-variceal and para-variceal injection before an upper endoscopic examination was performed in the sclerotherapy group. In all 25 sclerotherapy cases (100%) hemostasis was successful, which was a statistically significant success rate compared to the control group (52.0%) (p less than 0.01). In the sclerotherapy group 20% (5/25 cases) developed rebleeding, which was less than the 48.0% (7 cases of continuous bleeding and 5 cases of rebleeding) of the control group (p less than 0.05). Four cases (16.0%) in the sclerotherapy group died of erosive gastritis with massive bleeding, compared to 8 fatalities (32.0%) in the control group, because of uncontrolled esophageal variceal bleeding. Endoscopic sclerotherapy is a very effective method for arresting bleeding esophageal varices, and for decreasing the rebleeding rate.

SV40 large T antigen binds preferentially to an underphosphorylated member of the retinoblastoma susceptibility gene product family

Extracts of monkey cells (CV-1P) synthesizing SV40 large T antigen (T) were immunoprecipitated with monoclonal antibodies to T or p110-114Rb, the product of the retinoblastoma susceptibility gene (Rb). While a family of p110-114Rb proteins can be detected in anti-Rb immunoprecipitates, only one member of this family, p110Rb, was found in anti-T precipitates of these extracts. Identical results were obtained with extracts of CV-1P cells which had been previously mixed in vitro with highly purified T. The p110-114Rb family is composed of two sets--p110Rb, an un- or under-phosphorylated species, and pp112-114Rb, a group of overtly phosphorylated proteins. Thus, T bound preferentially to the un- or underphosphorylated member of the family. In addition, T failed to alter the relative abundances of these species. These results suggest a model in which the growth suppression function of Rb is down modulated either by phosphorylation or T antigen binding.

Evaluation of a radioimmunoassay of urinary cortisol without extraction

We evaluated the Kallestad "Quanticoat" cortisol RIA for direct (no extraction) measurement of urinary free cortisol, which requires no solvent extraction. An analytical-recovery study showed a linear regression of y (measured) = 0.65x (added) + 37.5 micrograms/L (Sy.x = 21.4 micrograms/L, r = 0.978, n = 48). Recovery appeared to vary with the urine used and with the concentrations of cortisol added. Within- and between-run CVs were less than or equal to 4.1% and less than or equal to 3.8%, respectively. Cross reactivities were low, except for prednisolone (20.5%). This no-extraction method gave higher values for urinary free cortisol than did either an RIA method involving extraction or an HPLC method. A comparison study with the HPLC (x) and with the method involving extraction (x') gave the following Deming-debiased regression equations: y = 1.60x + 68.8 (Sy.x = 34.4, n = 29) and y = 1.33x' + 0.69 (Sy.x = 40.3, n = 66), respectively. We conclude that the no-extraction method may give misleading results for patients' diagnosis or management if this cross reactivity is not taken into account.

Evaluation of a radioimmunoassay of urinary cortisol without extraction

We evaluated the Kallestad "Quanticoat" cortisol RIA for direct (no extraction) measurement of urinary free cortisol, which requires no solvent extraction. An analytical-recovery study showed a linear regression of y (measured) = 0.65x (added) + 37.5 micrograms/L (Sy.x = 21.4 micrograms/L, r = 0.978, n = 48). Recovery appeared to vary with the urine used and with the concentrations of cortisol added. Within- and between-run CVs were less than or equal to 4.1% and less than or equal to 3.8%, respectively. Cross reactivities were low, except for prednisolone (20.5%). This no-extraction method gave higher values for urinary free cortisol than did either an RIA method involving extraction or an HPLC method. A comparison study with the HPLC (x) and with the method involving extraction (x') gave the following Deming-debiased regression equations: y = 1.60x + 68.8 (Sy.x = 34.4, n = 29) and y = 1.33x' + 0.69 (Sy.x = 40.3, n = 66), respectively. We conclude that the no-extraction method may give misleading results for patients' diagnosis or management if this cross reactivity is not taken into account.

Enzyme abnormalities of patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

We determined the enzyme activities of glucose-6-phosphate isomerase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase in serum from 23 normal controls, 27 anti-HIV seropositive individuals confirmed by Western blot, and 53 patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There is a significant difference for all four enzyme activities among controls, HIV seropositive individuals, and patients with AIDS, the enzyme activities showing a progressive increase as the disease progresses. Evidently these enzyme measurements may be adjunctive biochemical markers for progression of AIDS.

Enzyme abnormalities of patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

We determined the enzyme activities of glucose-6-phosphate isomerase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and lactate dehydrogenase in serum from 23 normal controls, 27 anti-HIV seropositive individuals confirmed by Western blot, and 53 patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There is a significant difference for all four enzyme activities among controls, HIV seropositive individuals, and patients with AIDS, the enzyme activities showing a progressive increase as the disease progresses. Evidently these enzyme measurements may be adjunctive biochemical markers for progression of AIDS.

Nutritional status of patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome

Nutritional status may be an important factor in the prognosis of morbidity and mortality. We assessed the nutritional status of individuals seropositive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (as confirmed by Western blot) and of patients with AIDS, by determining the concentration in serum of total protein, albumin, prealbumin (transthyretin), and retinol-binding protein. HIV-seropositive individuals showed no significant difference from normal volunteers in values for prealbumin, albumin, and retinol-binding protein. Patients with AIDS showed significantly smaller prealbumin and albumin concentrations than did normal and HIV-positive individuals. There was no significant difference in the concentration of retinol-binding protein among the three groups. The concentration of total serum protein was significantly greater in HIV-positive individuals and in patients with AIDS than in normal individuals. Thus, the nutritional status of patients with AIDS may be a factor for morbidity and mortality.

Synthetic magainin analogues with improved antimicrobial activity

Based on modifications to enhance the alpha-helical structure of the broad spectrum antibiotic magainin 2, a series of analogues have been synthesized which display an increase up to two orders of magnitude in antimicrobial activity and, in the most favorable case, no appreciable increase in hemolytic activity over magainin 1 at the concentrations tested.

SV40 large tumor antigen forms a specific complex with the product of the retinoblastoma susceptibility gene

Monkey cells synthesizing SV40 large T antigen were lysed and the extracts immunoprecipitated with either monoclonal anti-T antibody or monoclonal antibody to p110-114, the product of the retinoblastoma susceptibility gene (Rb). T and p110-114 coprecipitated in each case, implying that the proteins are complexed with each other. Substitution and internal deletion mutants of T that contain structural alterations in a ten residue, transformation-controlling domain failed to complex with p110-114. In contrast, T mutants bearing structural changes outside of this domain bound to p110-114. These results are consistent with a model for transformation by SV40 which, at least in part, involves T/p110-114 complex formation and the perturbation of Rb protein and/or T function.

Development and evaluation of an automated dye-binding assay for protein in cerebrospinal fluid

Addition of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) to Coomassie Brilliant Blue reagent equalizes the binding variability of the dye to various proteins and markedly improves the accuracy of quantification of protein in cerebrospinal fluid. In the presence of SDS, the absorption spectrum and the absorption maximum are affected by reaction time and temperature, age of the dye preparation, and protein constituent. I automated this procedure, to optimize precision, enable use of a smaller sample, decrease hands-on time, maintain consistency in the time of reading, and avoid carryover. The results (y) compared well with those of the aca (x), with a Deming de-biased regression equation of y = 0.991x + 14.1 mg/L, Sy.x = 33.4 mg/L. The within-run and between-run precision (CV) was less than 2.5% and less than 4.5%, respectively. Commonly used antibiotics, flucytosine, or amphotericin B do not interfere. This automated procedure is fast and accurate and requires only 10 microL of sample.

Development and evaluation of an automated dye-binding assay for protein in cerebrospinal fluid

Addition of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) to Coomassie Brilliant Blue reagent equalizes the binding variability of the dye to various proteins and markedly improves the accuracy of quantification of protein in cerebrospinal fluid. In the presence of SDS, the absorption spectrum and the absorption maximum are affected by reaction time and temperature, age of the dye preparation, and protein constituent. I automated this procedure, to optimize precision, enable use of a smaller sample, decrease hands-on time, maintain consistency in the time of reading, and avoid carryover. The results (y) compared well with those of the aca (x), with a Deming de-biased regression equation of y = 0.991x + 14.1 mg/L, Sy.x = 33.4 mg/L. The within-run and between-run precision (CV) was less than 2.5% and less than 4.5%, respectively. Commonly used antibiotics, flucytosine, or amphotericin B do not interfere. This automated procedure is fast and accurate and requires only 10 microL of sample.

An enzymatic method for 5-fluorocytosine

We developed an enzymatic method for determination of 5-fluorocytosine in serum, using creatine iminohydrolase (EC 3.5.4.21), the Cobas-Bio analyzer, and an extant ammonia method. Analytical recovery (y) of drug added to serum (x) was good, with y = 0.97x-0.7, Sy.x = 3.6, r = 0.997 (n = 65) over the range 6.25 to 150 mg/L. Comparison with an HPLC method (x) showed good agreement: y = 0.98x + 1.34, Sy.x = 3.7 (n = 37), as analyzed with the Deming debiased regression. Precision was good, CVs being less than 3% for within-run and less than 6% for between-run controls. Ammonia, amphotericin B, glucose, urea, and hemolysis do not interfere, but bilirubin shows analyte-dependent interference and lipemia interferes when triglycerides exceed 5 g/L. This assay is accurate, inexpensive, and easy to perform. It can be easily adapted for routine or emergency use.

An enzymatic method for 5-fluorocytosine

We developed an enzymatic method for determination of 5-fluorocytosine in serum, using creatine iminohydrolase (EC 3.5.4.21), the Cobas-Bio analyzer, and an extant ammonia method. Analytical recovery (y) of drug added to serum (x) was good, with y = 0.97x-0.7, Sy.x = 3.6, r = 0.997 (n = 65) over the range 6.25 to 150 mg/L. Comparison with an HPLC method (x) showed good agreement: y = 0.98x + 1.34, Sy.x = 3.7 (n = 37), as analyzed with the Deming debiased regression. Precision was good, CVs being less than 3% for within-run and less than 6% for between-run controls. Ammonia, amphotericin B, glucose, urea, and hemolysis do not interfere, but bilirubin shows analyte-dependent interference and lipemia interferes when triglycerides exceed 5 g/L. This assay is accurate, inexpensive, and easy to perform. It can be easily adapted for routine or emergency use.

Digital dermal patterns in breast cancer

Fingerprints of 570 breast cancer cases and the same number of matched controls were obtained from the population-based finger print file in Hawaii for studying the association between breast cancer and digital dermal patterns and ridge counts. The results showed that breast cancer patients had a significant excess of radial loops on the left hand. It was also found that the frequency of ulnar loops on the left hand was significantly elevated for premenopausal women with breast cancer, whereas an excess of radial loops on the left hand was observed for the postmenopausal women with breast cancer. No significant difference for the total and absolute ridge counts was found between breast cancer patients and controls.

Purification, biochemical characterization, and biological function of human esterase D

Human esterase D (carboxylesterase; carboxylic-ester hydrolase, EC 3.1.1.1), a genetic marker of retinoblastoma, was purified to biochemical homogeneity from erythrocytes. The purification scheme including carboxymethylcellulose, phenyl-Sepharose, chromatofocusing, and hydroxylapatite chromatographies resulted in a 10,000-fold purification of the enzyme with 15% recovery of total activity. The Km of esterase D was estimated to be 10 X 10(-6) M using 4-methylumbelliferyl acetate as substrate. The enzymatic activity was inhibited by p-chloromercuribenzoate and HgCl2, suggesting an important role of SH group(s) in enzyme function. Specific rabbit polyclonal and mouse monoclonal antibodies against esterase D were prepared and recognized either denatured or native human esterase D protein. Moreover, the polyclonal antibodies immunoprecipitated a polypeptide with a molecular mass of about 33-34 kDa from various cell lines of different mammalian species, indicating that the esterase D protein is highly conserved. The highest levels of this enzyme were found in liver and kidney. Furthermore, the expression of esterase D was enhanced 3-fold in a promonocytic cell line treated with phenobarbital but not with phorbol myristate acetate, suggesting that esterase D may have a role in detoxification. The availability of the homogeneous protein and its specific antibodies allows for cloning of the esterase D gene and facilitates studies of retinoblastomas.

Frequency sensitivities of auditory neurons in the cerebellum of the cat

Threshold tuning curves were obtained from neurons in the cerebellar auditory area of the cat. The threshold of the brainstem auditory evoked response was also measured in each animal as a function of sound frequency in order to monitor the overall frequency sensitivity of the auditory periphery. Cerebellar auditory neurons responded to sound stimuli with little discrimination for the sound frequency. The values of Q10dB (a measure of the sharpness of tuning) were less than 2 for most of the neurons in this study. There was no significant difference in the sharpness of tuning for neurons in the various layers of the cerebellar auditory area. Electrophysiological mapping showed that the frequency sensitivity of single neurons did not appear to vary as a function of location within the cerebellar auditory area which includes lobules VI and VII of Larsell. Broad tuning was observed in long-latency (greater than 11 ms) neurons which responded to binaural sound stimuli as well as in short-latency (less than 6 ms) neurons which only responded to monaural sound stimuli. Within each animal, tuning curves of single cerebellar neurons were essentially superimposable onto each other and matched well with the overall frequency sensitivity of the animal as shown by brainstem auditory evoked response. Since the frequency tuning of these neurons appeared to reflect the overall frequency sensitivity of the auditory periphery, auditory neurons in the posterior vermis may receive inputs that involve convergence and integration from the entire length of the cochlea.

Tonotopic organization in the inferior colliculus of the rat demonstrated with the 2-deoxyglucose method

We studied the tonotopic organization in the inferior colliculus of the rat with the 2-deoxyglucose method. Isofrequency bands were observed in the central nucleus of the inferior colliculus. In coronal sections, higher sound frequencies elicited bands that were located more ventrally. At caudal levels of the inferior colliculus, isofrequency bands were relatively short and tilted slightly downward toward the midsagittal plane. As the plane of section moved more rostrally, isofrequency bands gradually lengthened, their orientation first turned horizontally and continued with a downward tilt toward the lateral aspect of the brainstem. At rostral levels, high-frequency (greater than 8000 Hz) bands showed more significant increases in length than low-frequency (less than 4000 Hz) bands. Thus, the amount of tissue in the inferior colliculus devoted to higher frequencies was significantly more than that for lower frequencies. In sagittal sections, the isofrequency band moved from a dorsoposterior position to a ventroanterior one as the plane of section moved more laterally. A three-dimensional model of isofrequency planes was reconstructed from the above data.

Experimental infection of subperiodic Brugia malayi in laboratory rats with emphasis on evaluation by four techniques

Infective larvae of subperiodic B. malayi from South Kalimantan (Borneo), Indonesia collected from laboratory-raised Ae. togoi mosquitoes after feeding on infected mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) were inoculated subcutaneously into the groin areas of 15 SD and 36 LE rats. Blood was examined weekly by membrane filtration and thick smears starting 10 weeks post-infection. Microfilariae were found in 3 SD and 4 LE rats, the mf infection rate of 20% and 11% respectively. The prepatent period was significantly shorter in the SD rats (99-112 days) than those in the LE rats (110-153 days). The patent period was longer in the LE rats (208-703 days) than in the SD rats (236-543 days), and the mf density was similar (17.5 mf/20 c.mm blood against 16 mf/20 c.mm blood). At necropsy, 6 (3 female and 3 male) adult worms were recovered from 3 of 6 SD rats and 12 (9 female and 3 male) adult worms from 4 of 20 LE rats; all worms were found in the testes. The results of xenodiagnostic, histochemical staining and measuring spicules and protuberances, demonstrated clearly the difference between both species of Brugia. All dissected Ar. subalbatus mosquitoes exposed to B. pahangi became infected (100%), but none of those to subperiodic B. malayi were infected (0%). The mf of both species of Brugia in thick films stained with naphthol-AS-TR-phosphate showed that the excretory and anal pores of subperiodic B. malayi mf exhibited acid phosphatase activity and only a little activity was seen in other parts; while B. pahangi mf showed heavy diffuse acid phosphatase activity along the entire length of the body.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Electrophysiological mapping of the auditory areas in the cerebellum of the cat

We mapped the topographic distribution of auditory evoked potentials over the posterior cerebellum of the cat. Within the posterior vermis, positive-going evoked potentials were primarily recorded in lobule VI and negative ones in lobule VII. Peak latencies of these evoked potentials were between 8 and 18 ms. The amplitudes of evoked potentials from adjacent surface cortical sites often differed significantly. Thus, besides the segregation of positive and negative polarities in the evoked potentials from lobules VI and VII, the distribution of cerebellar auditory evoked potentials within a given lobule contained high- and low-amplitude sites arranged in a patchy pattern. Within the posterior vermis, the evoked potentials showed significant polarity and amplitude changes as a function of depth during microelectrode penetrations which were vertical to the surface of the cerebellar cortex. Cerebellar auditory evoked potentials were not detected over the paramedian lobules and most of the cerebellar hemispheres. There were no significant changes in the electrical activities as a function of depth in these areas. Auditory responses, however, were observed in the most lateral part of the cerebellar hemispheres.

Detection of immunoglobulin heavy chain IgG3 polymorphism in wild mice with xenogeneic monoclonal antibodies

We have generated four xenogeneic rat antimouse IgG3 monoclonal antibodies recognizing at least three different antigenic determinants (epitopes) on BALB/c IgG3 molecules. These antibodies were used in solid-phase blocking radioimmunoassays for detection of the epitopes in sera of 40 inbred strains and 134 wild mice. These antibodies detect genetic polymorphism of IgG3 isotype among wild mice even though there is no polymorphism found among 40 inbred strains tested (except X-chromosome-linked immunodeficient CBA/N strain which lacks IgG3 molecules). An IgG3 variant was also isolated from hybridomas derived from Mus spretus.

Flow of mitochondrial DNA across a species boundary

Restriction analysis shows that wild Scandinavian mice belonging to the species Mus musculus contain the mitochondrial DNA of a neighboring species, M. domesticus. This demonstration results from comparisons of Scandinavian mice with authentic M. domesticus and M. musculus from other parts of Europe. Electrophoretic and immunological analysis of eight diagnostic proteins confirms that mice from north of the hybrid zone in Denmark are M. musculus in regard to their nuclear genes. In contrast, the mice tested from this region and a nearby part of Sweden have exclusively M. domesticus types of mitochondrial DNA. Phylogenetic analysis of the restriction maps suggests that the mitochondrial DNAs found in Scandinavian M. musculus could stem from a single M. domesticus female.

Structural characterization of mouse immunoglobulin allotypic determinants (allotopes) defined by monoclonal antibodies

We have generated a new series of monoclonal antibodies recognizing allotypic determinants on mouse IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b. In this communication we describe their reactivity at the molecular level. A number of genetic specificities (as defined by reactivity with sera from inbred strains) were divided into subspecificities (allotopes) by these analyses. With the exception of one allotope located in the hinge region of Igh-1b, all other 23 allotopes examined were preserved upon reduction and alkylation of immunoglobulin antigens. To further analyze the role of immunoglobulin conformation in presenting the allotopes, we assayed their presence on mixed Igh-1a/Igh-4a heavy chain molecules. The Igh-1a determinants were maintained, but the Igh-4a determinants were lost. Taken together, our results indicate that genetic polymorphisms at the Igh loci generate an enormous antigenic complexity, much of which relies on tertiary and quaternary protein structure for expression.

Genetic characterization of mouse immunoglobulin allotypic determinants (allotopes) defined by monoclonal antibodies

We have generated a new series of monoclonal antibodies recognizing allotypic determinants on mouse IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b. In this communication we describe their reactivities with immunoglobulins of the inbred mouse strains. Comparison with serology charts indicates that many of these monoclonal antibodies detect allotypic specificities previously defined by conventional antisera; others define previously undescribed specificities. Strain and isotype distribution allows us to assign five new allotypic specificities to Igh-1 and three new specificities to Igh-3. In addition, on the basis of reactivity with the monoclonal antibodies, we have defined a new Igh haplotype in SWR/J mice, Ighp.

Projections from the cochlear nucleus to the cerebellum

The connections between the brainstem auditory system and the cerebellar auditory area in the posterior vermis (VI, VII, and VIIIA) were studied using the horseradish peroxidase technique. Injections also were made in the cerebellar hemispheres, the paramedian and the vestibulocerebellum (VIIIB, IX). Labeled cells were found in the cochlear nuclei bilaterally, but not in the superior olivary complex or the inferior colliculus. As the injection sites moved more laterally from the vermis area to the paramedian and the cerebellar hemispheres, the number of labeled cochlear nucleus neurons decreased progressively. This observation suggests that the terminals of the cochlear-nucleus-cerebellum projection tend to concentrate in the vermis auditory area. In the cochlear nucleus, labeled cells did not appear to belong to a single, homogenous cell type, nor did the cells group into a single area in the cochlear nucleus. The total number of labeled neurons in one cochlear nucleus did not exceed 200 in our largest injection.

Trigeminal evoked potentials in the cat

Electrical stimulation of the infraorbital nerve in the cat resulted in a series of far-field evoked potentials at the vertex. The wave form of these potentials is similar to the auditory brain stem evoked response and the somatosensory far-field response; it is multicomponent, the amplitudes of individual components are of the order of 1 microV, and the latencies are all less than 4 msec. The anatomical origins of these evoked potentials were investigated. The results indicated that contributions due to the afferent trigeminal nerve, the principal sensory nucleus, and the spinal trigeminal nucleus are involved.

New immunoglobulin IgG allotypes and haplotypes found in wild mice with monoclonal anti-allotope antibodies

Sera from 156 wild mice (Mus musculus L.) collected from parts of Eurasia, Northern Africa, and the Americas were tested in solid-phase radioimmunoassays for reactivity with 20 monoclonal anti-allotope antibodies directed against gene products of the Igh-1, Igh-3, and Igh-4 loci. Most of the wild mice have Igh phenotypes similar to those of inbred strains or heterozygotes thereof, but frequently the wild mice showed unique combinations of allotypes on a given chromosome (haplotypes) not seen in inbred strains. We found new allotypes of the Igh-1 and Igh-4 loci. Mice from three regions (Poland, Taiwan, and Japan) possess combinations of allotypes indicating that recombination, gene conversion, or other gene duplication events have occurred in portions of the Igh constant region gene complex. Most interestingly, sera of three mice from Egypt possess immunoglobulin molecules appearing to result from an intragenic recombination event involving either Igh-1d or Igh-3d with Igh-1b. Two mice from Pakistan and one from Seychelles Island in the Indian Ocean also showed similar unusual phenotypes. These mice possess two CH2 IgH-1b and two CH2 Igh-1a/CH2 Igh-1d determinants, suggesting that these variant immunoglobulin arose from recombinations within the CH2 domain.

New immunoglobulin IgG allotypes and haplotypes found in wild mice with monoclonal anti-allotope antibodies

Sera from 156 wild mice (Mus musculus L.) collected from parts of Eurasia, Northern Africa, and the Americas were tested in solid-phase radioimmunoassays for reactivity with 20 monoclonal anti-allotope antibodies directed against gene products of the Igh-1, Igh-3, and Igh-4 loci. Most of the wild mice have Igh phenotypes similar to those of inbred strains or heterozygotes thereof, but frequently the wild mice showed unique combinations of allotypes on a given chromosome (haplotypes) not seen in inbred strains. We found new allotypes of the Igh-1 and Igh-4 loci. Mice from three regions (Poland, Taiwan, and Japan) possess combinations of allotypes indicating that recombination, gene conversion, or other gene duplication events have occurred in portions of the Igh constant region gene complex. Most interestingly, sera of three mice from Egypt possess immunoglobulin molecules appearing to result from an intragenic recombination event involving either Igh-1d or Igh-3d with Igh-1b. Two mice from Pakistan and one from Seychelles Island in the Indian Ocean also showed similar unusual phenotypes. These mice possess two CH2 IgH-1b and two CH2 Igh-1a/CH2 Igh-1d determinants, suggesting that these variant immunoglobulin arose from recombinations within the CH2 domain.

The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in primary and secondary hypertension

Important advances have been made in understanding the role of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in the pathogenesis and diagnosis of hypertensive disorders. Measurement of plasma renin activity (PRA) and aldosterone is very important in the assessment of secondary hypertension. Hypertensions with increased PRA include renovascular hypertension, some cases of unilateral and bilateral renal parenchymal disease, malignant hypertension, hypertension associated with oral contraceptive agents, and renin-secreting tumors. Hypertension with decreased PRA is observed in four recognized types of primary aldosteronism: adenoma, bilateral hyperplasia, indeterminate aldosteronism, and glucocorticoid-responsive aldosteronism. Other conditions with hypertension and depressed PRA include ACTH and DOC secreting tumors, primary hyperpituitarism, syndromes of 17-hydroxylase and 11-beta-hydroxylase deficiency. Liddle's syndrome, licorice abuse, exogenous administration of mineralocorticoids, and preeclampsia.

Time constants of acoustic adaptation

Evoked potentials were recorded from cochlear nuclei of intact, awake cats through chronically implanted electrodes during stimulation with 10,000 c/sec at 35 dB above the visual detection threshold of evoked potentials. The stimulus rate was varied from 0.5 to 100/sec and the stimulus duration was varied from 1 to 1800 msec but no overlap occurred between successive stimuli. A model was proposed to explain the amplitude of evoked potentials as a function of the stimulus duration and repetition rate. The time constant for the exponential decrease of evoked potential amplitude during stimulation is 8.9 msec, whereas the time constant for the exponential recovery of evoked potentials following the cessation of the tone is 39.5 msec.

Comparison of antihypertensive effects of captopril and propranolol in essential hypertension

The antihypertensive effects of the oral converting enzyme inhibitor captopril and of propranolol were evaluated in a single-blind trial of 12 weeks in 19 ambulatory men with moderated essential hypertension (supine diastolic blood pressure [DPB], 100 to 120 mm Hg after receiving placebo for two weeks) whose sodium intake was unrestricted. The captopril group included 12 patients and the propranolol group seven. After the initial dose-finding period of four weeks, supine DBP was significantly reduced in eight patients receiving captopril and in four of the patients receiving propranolol. In these patients DBP decreased throughout the following eight weeks. In the remaining patients from each group, DBP was not reduced by either drug given alone at maximum allowable dosages during dose-finding periods, nor by combined administration in following weeks. No adverse side effects attributable to captopril were noted, except in one patient in whom proteinuria developed after seven weeks. Captopril has potential value in the treatment of moderate essential hypertension.

Murine antigen H-2.7: localization of its antigenic determinant to the Ss (C4) molecule

Murine blood group antigen H-2.7 is encoded by a locus mapping in the vicinity of the S locus which codes for the Ss antigen carried by the fourth component of the complement pathway (C4). Normal mouse serum of H-2.7-positive strains contains a substance which inhibits anti-H-2.7 hemagglutination. This substance cannot be removed by passage of the serum through an anti-Ss immunoabsorbent column indicating that the Ss and H-2.7 antigens are present on separate molecules or molecular fragments in the serum. In contrast, fresh plasma either does not contain the H-2.7-bearing substance at all or it contains it at a far lower concentration than normal serum, although it has a normal level of the Ss-antigen-bearing substance. However, the H-2.7-positive substance appears when the plasma is allowed to stand for several hours, or when it is dialyzed and treated subsequently in a manner favoring spontaneous degradation of complement components. Removal of the Ss substance from the fresh plasma prevents the appearance of the H-2.7 antigen at any time thereafter. These findings indicate that the Ss and H-2.7 antigens are carried by the same molecule or molecular complex. The intact molecule expresses only the Ss antigen; the H-2.7 antigen is either hidden or masked so that it is inaccessible or poorly accessible to H-2.7 antibodies. Degradation of these molecules results in the generation of two fragments, a large fragment carrying the Ss antigen and a smaller H-2.7-positive fragment. The data are consistent with the interpretation that the H-2.7 antigen is encoded by the S locus, and that it is carried by that portion of the C4 molecule split off during complement activation.

Changes of acoustic nerve and cochlear nucleus evoked potentials due to repetitive stimulation

Evoked potential recordings were studied in the acoustic nerve and cochlear nucleus of adult decerebrate cats as a function of the tone duration (1-1500 msec) and the tone repetition rate (0.5/sec-200/sec). Response decrements due to repetitive tonal stimulation were primarily a function of the inter-tone interval. At inter-tone intervals longer than 100 msec, no response decrements were observed in the acoustic nerve or the cochlear nucleus. With shorter inter-tone intervals, reversible response decrements of identical magnitudes ocurred in both the acoustic nerve and the cochlear nucleus evoked potentials. The mechanism of response decrement may be due to depression at the hair cell-acoustic nerve junction.