Functional analyses of cytochrome P450 genes responsible for the early steps of brassicicene C biosynthesis

We previously revealed that Orf8 and Orf6, which were identified in the brassicicene C biosynthetic gene cluster in Alternaria brassicicola strain ATCC96836, were fusicoccadiene (FD) synthase and 16-O-methyltransferase, respectively. In the present Letter, the early biosynthetic steps after the formation of FD were investigated. Plasmids carrying the FD synthase gene, one (or two) of five cytochrome P450 genes (orf1, orf2, orf5, orf7, and orf11) identified in the cluster and a cytochrome P450 reductase gene cloned from strain ATCC96836 were constructed and introduced into Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Based on the structures of the compounds produced by the transformants, Orf1 is suggested to be an 8beta-hydroxylation enzyme that yields FD 8beta-ol (4), followed by 16-hydroxylation by Orf7 to produce FD 8beta16-diol (5).

Effect of Perospirone on p300 Electrophysiological Activity and Social Cognition in Schizophrenia: A Three-dimensional Analysis with (s)loreta

The purpose of this study was to determine if perospirone, a second generation antipsychotic drug and partial agonist at serotonin-5-HT1A receptors, enhances electrophysiological activity, such as event-related potentials (ERPs), in frontal brain regions, as well as cognitive function in subjects with schizophrenia. P300 current source images were obtained by means of standardized low resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (sLORETA) before and after treatment with perospirone for 6 months. Perospirone significantly increased P300 current source density in the left superior frontal gyrus, and improved positive symptoms and performance on the script tasks, a measure of verbal social cognition. Perospirone also tended to enhance verbal learning memory in patients with schizophrenia. There was a significant correlation between the changes in P300 amplitudes on the left frontal lead and those in social cognition. These results suggest the changes in three-dimensional distribution of cortical activity, as demonstrated by sLORETA, may mediate some of the actions of antipsychotic drugs. the distinct cognition-enhancing profile of perospirone may be related to its actions on 5-HT1A receptors.

Detailed images of asteroid 25143 Itokawa from Hayabusa

Rendezvous of the Japanese spacecraft Hayabusa with the near-Earth asteroid 25143 Itokawa took place during the interval September through November 2005. The onboard camera imaged the solid surface of this tiny asteroid (535 meters by 294 meters by 209 meters) with a spatial resolution of 70 centimeters per pixel, revealing diverse surface morphologies. Unlike previously explored asteroids, the surface of Itokawa reveals both rough and smooth terrains. Craters generally show unclear morphologies. Numerous boulders on Itokawa's surface suggest a rubble-pile structure.

A new congenital form of X-linked autophagic vacuolar myopathy

In a new family with X-linked congenital autophagic vacuolar myopathy (AVM), seven affected boys presented with congenital hypotonia, dyspnea, and dysphagia with delayed motor milestones. Muscle pathology revealed autophagic vacuoles with sarcolemmal features, multilayered basal lamina with marked sarcolemmal deposition of C5-9 membrane attack complex and calcium, histologically indistinguishable from childhood-onset X-linked myopathy with excessive autophagy (XMEA). Haplotype analysis suggests that this new AVM and XMEA may be allelic despite different clinical presentations.

Suppression of TNFalpha production in LPS induced liver failure in mice after intravenous injection of cationic liposomes/NFkappaB decoy complex

NFkappaB decoy, double stranded oligonucleotides containing NFkappaB binding sequences, inhibits NFkappaB-mediated production of inflammatory cytokines, and therefore NFkappaB decoy has been applied to several diseases. However, naked NFkappaB decoy, which is quickly cleared from the circulation in mice after intravenous injection, is readily absorbed into the systemic circulation. In order to deliver enough NFkappaB decoy for a therapeutic effect, it is necessary to develop a carrier, which enables much more NFkappaKB decoy to transfer to the target cells. In this study, using N-[1-(2,3-dioleyloxy)propyl]-n,n,n-trimethylammonium chloride (DOTMA)/cholesterol (1 :1) liposomes, the therapeutic effect of NFkappaB decoy was investigated in an LPS induced acute hepatitis model mice. The mean diameter of the cationic liposomes/NFkappaB decoy complex was about 70.9 nm and the zeta potential of complex was about 37.4 mV. Tissue distribution was determined by measuring the radioactivity of a cationic liposomes/ [32P] NFkappaB decoy complex after intravenous injection. The cationic liposomes/[32P] NFkappaB decoy complex was rapidly accumulated in the lung and gradually moved to the liver. The therapeutic effect was determined by the serum concentration of TNFalpha in LPS treated mice. The production of TNFalpha was significantly inhibited by cationic liposomes/NFkappaB decoy complex but not by cationic liposomes/random decoy complex or naked NFkappaB decoy. These results suggested that NFkappaB decoy therapy could be achieved using cationic liposomes. This information is of great value for the design of NFkappaB decoy carrier systems.

Cardiorespiratory responses during passive walking-like exercise in quadriplegics

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional and comparative investigation using quadriplegics (QP) and nondisabled subjects (ND).

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate cardiorespiratory responses during passive walking-like exercise (PWE) in QP.

SETTING

National Rehabilitation Center for Persons with Disabilities in Japan.

METHOD

The subjects were seven male QP with complete lesion (age: 27.0 +/- 5.4, injured level: C6-C7) and six male ND (age: 26.3 +/- 4.5). Cardiorespiratory responses were measured until voluntary fatigue during PWE, the rhythmical activity of paralyzed lower limbs synchronized with arm movements.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in oxygen consumption (VO(2)), pulmonary ventilation (VE), heart rate (HR) and oxygen pulse (O(2) pulse) between QP and ND during PWE. ND showed increased ventilatory equivalent for oxygen (VE/VO(2) ratio) during exercise, while QP showed a significantly greater respiratory rate (RR) during exercise than ND (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

PWE elicited an increase in VO(2) with workload increment in QP similar to ND. However, higher RR suggested the intrinsic dysfunction of RR control during submaximal exercise in QP. From these results, it was thought that respiratory response would be the restriction factor of efficient oxygen transportation during PWE in QP.

Gamma knife surgery for brain metastases: indications for and limitations of a local treatment protocol

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate results of a local treatment protocol using gamma knife surgery (GKS) for brain metastases without upfront whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT).

METHODS

Results for 521 consecutive patients satisfying the following 3 criteria were analysed: 1) a maximum of 3 tumours with a diameter of 25 mm or more; 2) no prior WBRT; 3) no surgically in accessible large (>30 mm) tumours. Large tumours were surgically removed and all smaller lesions were treated by GKS without up front WBRT. New lesions, detected with follow-up MRI, were appropriately treated with repeat GKS. Overall survival (OS), neurological survival (NS), qualitative survival (QS) and new lesion-free survival (NLFS) curves were calculated and the prognostic values of covariates were obtained. OS and NS were compared according to tumour number.

RESULTS

In total, 1023 separate sessions were required to treat 4562 lesions. The primary organs were lung in 369 patients, gastro-intestinal tract in 70, breast in 33, urinary tract in 24, and others/unknown in 25. The median OS period was 9.0 months. On multivariate analysis, the significant prognostic factors for OS were found to be extracranial disease (risk factor: active), Karnofsky performance status (KPS) score (<70) and gender (male). NS and QS at one year were 85.6% and 73.0%, respectively. The only significantly poor prognostic factor for NS was carcinomatous meningitis. NLFS at 6 months was 68.9%. For both OS and NS, the differences between a few (</=3) and many (4-10) brain lesions were not significant (OS: p=0.3128, NS: p=0.5509). Patients with numerous (>10) tumours had a significantly poorer prognosis than those with </=10.

CONCLUSION

Our protocol, aggressively applying GKS, provides excellent results in selected patients with </=10 brain lesions and no carcinomatous meningitis.

Serial changes in plasma brain natriuretic peptide concentration at the infarct and non-infarct sites in patients with left ventricular remodelling after myocardial infarction

OBJECTIVES

To clarify the role of infarct and non-infarct sites on left ventricular (LV) remodelling after myocardial infarction by measuring brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) from each site.

METHODS AND RESULTS

BNP from the aorta and the anterior interventricular vein (AIV) was measured in 45 patients with first anterior myocardial infarction at one, six, and 18 months. The LV was significantly dilated (> 10 ml/m(2) of end diastolic volume from one to 18 months) in 20 patients (remodelling (R) group) but not in 25 others (non-remodelling (NR) group). Patient characteristics and LV functions did not differ significantly at one month but plasma BNP concentration was higher in group R than in group NR (336 (288) v 116 (106) pg/ml, p < 0.01), predicting the degree of LV dilatation. The difference in BNP concentration between the aortic root and AIV (DeltaBNP), reflecting BNP secreted from the infarct site, did not differ at one month. In both groups BNP and DeltaBNP significantly decreased from one to six months (p < 0.05) and decreased from six months to 18 months, but the change was not significant. BNP and DeltaBNP were significantly higher in group R than in group NR after six months, when LV dilatation was not evident in both groups.

CONCLUSION

Enhanced BNP secretion at one month in the non-infarct and infarct ventricular sites predicts subsequent LV dilatation (that is, remodelling). The slower process of LV remodelling decreased BNP secretion at both sites. Thus, BNP concentration should be useful for monitoring ventricular remodelling after infarction.

Hydrolytic activity of alpha-amylase in anaerobic digested sludge

Hydrolysis is usually considered to be a rate-limiting step in anaerobic digestion. For improving anaerobic solid waste treatments, it is essential to elucidate the mechanism of hydrolysis. In this study, alpha-amylase, one of the hydrolytic enzymes, was investigated for the elucidation of more precise mechanism of hydrolysis. Alpha-amylase activity of solid starch-degrading bacteria (SDB) was estimated through batch experiments with several different substrates and with distinction between cell-bound and cell-free alpha-amylase. Monitoring of newly isolated strains of SDB was done by fluorescence in situ hybridization. Results indicated that cell-bound alpha-amylase is chiefly responsible for the hydrolysis in the digested sludge, providing very useful information that the contact between microbial cells and solids is significantly important. The activity of alpha-amylase of the digested sludge remained quite low when not required, but increased as they recognized appropriate substrates. Several-fold higher activity was obtained for starch or maltose as compared to glucose only.

Effect of cationic charge on receptor-mediated transfection using mannosylated cationic liposome/plasmid DNA complexes following the intravenous administration in mice

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of cationic charge of complexes after intravenous administration of cholesten-5-yloxy-N-[4-[(1-imino-2-D-thiomannosyl-ethyl)amino]butyl]formamide (Man-C4-Chol) containing cationic liposomes/pDNA complexes in mice. Transfection efficiency after intravenous administration of complex at a charge ratio (- : +) of 1.0:2.3 and/or 1.0:3.1 in liver and spleen expressing a mannose receptor on the cell surface were higher than those in lung. When complexes were formed at a charge ratio (- : +) of 1.0:4.7, on the other hand, transfection efficiency in the lung was highest, suggesting a non-specific interaction. Although asialoglycoprotein receptors are expressed on hepatocytes, a liver-selective gene transfection was not achieved by the intravenous administration of pDNA complexed with cholesten-5-yloxy-N-[4-[(1-imino-2-D-thiogalactosyl-ethyl)-amino]butyl]formamide (Gal-C4-Chol)/DOPE liposomes at a charge ratio (- : +) of 1.0 : 2.3. This information supports the design of pDNA/ligands-grafted cationic liposome complexes for cell-specific gene delivery after intravenous administration.

Mouse soluble CD14 truncated at amino acid 71 in transgenic mice: preventive effect on endotoxin-mediated toxic shock

Mouse soluble CD14 truncated at amino acid 71 (N71) contains the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-binding sequence. Transgenic mice carrying alpha1-antitrypsin (AT) promoter-N71 fusion genes, designated AT363-1 and AT363-2, were produced. These mice constitutively produced elevated levels of N71. The concentration of LPS in sera after intraperitoneal LPS injection was lower in AT363-1 mice than in nontransgenic mice. The expression of N71 mRNA was enhanced by subcutaneous turpentine oil injection. The levels of serum LPS and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) after intraperitoneal LPS injections were lower in AT363-1 mice than in nontransgenic mice. Cell surface TNF-alpha and CD14 expression in exudate peritoneal macrophages prepared by intraperitoneal injection of proteose peptone and then LPS were higher in AT363-1 mice than in nontransgenic mice. Neutrophil infiltration in the liver after induction of the generalized Shwartzman reaction was lower in AT363-1 mice than in nontransgenic mice. Lethality of the Shwartzman reaction was significantly lower in AT363-1 than in nontransgenic mice. These findings suggest that the endotoxin-binding protein (N71) from CD14 prevents endotoxin-mediated toxic shock.

AG-041R stimulates cartilage matrix synthesis without promoting terminal differentiation in rat articular chondrocytes

OBJECTIVE

AG-041R, a novel indolin-2-one derivative, has recently been demonstrated to induce systemic hyaline cartilage hyperplasia in rats. The aim of this study was to characterize its anabolic actions on chondrocytes.

DESIGN

Chondrocytes were isolated from knee joints of 5-week-old SD rats. Effects of AG-041R on cartilage matrix synthesis were examined by measuring [(35)S]sulfate incorporation into proteoglycans, Alcian blue staining, and Northern blotting of cartilage matrix genes. ALP activity, mineral deposition and the expression of markers for hypertrophic chondrocytes, were assessed for terminal differentiation of chondrocytes. Roles of endogenous TGF-beta/BMPs and MEK1/Erk signaling in the action of AG-041R were investigated using the neutralizing soluble receptors and the MEK1 inhibitor.

RESULTS

AG-041R accelerated proteoglycan synthesis assessed by both [(35)S]sulfate incorporation and Alcian blue stainable extracellular matrix accumulation. It also up-regulated the gene expression of type II collagen and aggrecan, as well as tenascin, a marker for articular cartilage. In contrast, AG-041R suppressed ALP activity, mineralization, and the gene expression of type X collagen and Cbfa1, indicating that AG-041R prevents chondrocyte terminal differentiation. AG-041R increased in BMP-2 mRNA, and the neutralizing soluble receptor for BMPs reversed the stimulatory effects of AG-041R on cartilage matrix synthesis. Moreover, AG-041R activated MEK1/Erk pathway, which was revealed to prevent chondrocyte terminal differentiation.

CONCLUSION

AG-041R stimulates cartilage matrix synthesis without promoting terminal differentiation in rat articular chondrocytes, which is mediated at least in part by endogenous BMPs and Erk. The data demonstrates that AG-041R has a potential to be a useful therapeutic agent for articular cartilage disorders.

CD38 expression by hematopoietic stem cells of newborn and juvenile mice

While investigators in a number of laboratories have documented that the hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) of fetal and adult mice are CD38+, no information is available about CD38 expression by HSCs of newborn and juvenile mice. We used a murine transplantation model to examine HSC CD38 expression. First, we observed that all HSCs from newborn bone marrow are CD38-. Next, it was determined that the majority of HSCs in the bone marrow of 5-week-old mice are CD38-, with a minority being CD38+. These observations indicated that the CD38+ subpopulation of HSC appears before the age of 5 weeks and expands during adolescence. However, the majority of HSCs of 5-week-old mice became CD38+ following injection of 5-fluorouracil, indicating that activation of juvenile stem cells enhances CD38 expression. These observations may have implications for CD38 expression by HSCs from human umbilical cord blood and bone marrow of young children in steady state and under pathological conditions.

Clostridial deep neck infection developed after extraction of a tooth: a case report and review of the literature in Japan

A rare case of severe deep neck infection caused by clostridia after extraction of the left lower canine is presented. The patient was a 63-year-old Japanese woman who had a history of diabetes. The pertinent literature in Japan is reviewed and discussed.

ED-71, a vitamin D analog, is a more potent inhibitor of bone resorption than alfacalcidol in an estrogen-deficient rat model of osteoporosis

Although active vitamin D is used in certain countries for the treatment of osteoporosis, the risk of causing hypercalcemia/hypercalciuria means that there is only a narrow therapeutic window, and this has precluded worldwide approval. The results of our previous animal studies have suggested that the therapeutic effect of active vitamin D on bone loss after estrogen deficiency can be dissociated at least partly from its effect of enhancing intestinal calcium absorption and suppressing parathyroid hormone (PTH) secretion. To test this, we compared the effects of ED-71, a hydroxypropoxy derivative of 1alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3, with orally administered alfacalcidol, on bone mineral density (BMD) and the bone remodeling process as a function of their effects on calcium metabolism and PTH, in a rat ovariectomy (ovx) model of osteoporosis. ED-71 increased bone mass at the lumbar vertebra to a greater extent than alfacalcidol, while enhancing calcium absorption (indicated by urinary calcium excretion) and decreasing serum PTH levels to the same degree as alfacalcidol. ED-71 lowered the biochemical and histological parameters of bone resorption more potently than alfacalcidol, while maintaining bone formation markers. These results suggest that active vitamin D exerts an antiosteoporotic effect by inhibiting osteoclastic bone resorption while maintaining osteoblastic function, and that these anticatabolic/anabolic effects of active vitamin D take place independently of its effects on calcium absorption and PTH. The demonstration that ED-71 is more potent in these properties than alfacalcidol makes it an attractive candidate as an antiosteoporotic drug.

The effect of basic fibroblast growth factor on the regeneration of guinea pig olfactory epithelium

Olfactory receptor cells are widely thought to regenerate after degeneration and also thought to show turnover in normal circumstances in animal olfactory epithelium. The identity of the factor that controls proliferation and differentiation of olfactory receptor cells is a very important problem that has yet to be resolved. In this study, the mitogenic effects of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on olfactory receptor cells in guinea pig olfactory epithelium was examined. The intraperitoneal injection of 1,000 ng bFGF/day for 14 days increased the cells in proliferation detected by immunostaining with proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), while neither EGF nor low-dose bFGF had any effect. These results support the idea that an adequate dose of bFGF plays an important role in the neurogenesis in the olfactory epithelium. Further study is needed to clarify the efficacy of bFGF in the damaged olfactory epithelium, but bFGF may provide a therapeutic option for olfactory disturbances caused by complete or partial loss of olfactory receptor cells.

The role of ERG (ets related gene) in cartilage development

OBJECTIVE

Based on function and developmental fate, cartilage tissue can be broadly classified into two types: transient (embryonic or growth-plate) cartilage and permanent cartilage. Chondrocytes in transient cartilage undergo terminal differentiation into hypertrophic cells, induce cartilage-matrix mineralization, and eventually disappear and are replaced by bone. On the other hand, chondrocytes in permanent cartilage do not differentiate further, do not become hypertrophic, and persist throughout life at specific sites, including joints and tracheal rings. While many studies have described differences in structure, matrix composition and biological characteristics between permanent and transient cartilage, it is poorly understood how the fates of permanent and transient cartilage are determined. Previous studies demonstrated that chondrocytes isolated from permanent cartilage have the potential to express markers of the mature hypertrophic phenotype once grown in culture, suggesting that cell hypertrophy is an intrinsic property of all chondrocytes and must be actively silenced in permanent cartilage in vivo. These silencing mechanisms, however, are largely unknown. In this paper, we first review nature of chondrocytes in transient and permanent cartilages and then report the cloning and characterization of a novel variant of ets transcription factor chERG, hereafter called C-1-1, which might be involved in regulation of permanent cartilage development.

DESIGN

For cloning of a novel variant of chERG (C-1-1), we isolated RNA from the cartilaginous femur or tibiotarsus of Day 17 chick embryos and processed it for reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with the primers from sequences upstream and downstream of the 81 and 72 bp segments alternatively-spliced in mammals. For investigation of function of chERG and C-1-1, we over-expressed chERG or C-1-1 in cultured chick chondrocytes or the developing limb of chick embryo using a retrovirus (RCAS) system, and examined the phenotype changes in the infected chondrocytes or the infected limb elements.

RESULTS

C-1-1 is an alternative and novel variant lacking the 27 amino acids segment of chERG that has been reported previously. C-1-1 is preferentially expressed in developing articular cartilage, whereas chERG is preferentially expressed in growth plate cartilage. Growth of articular chondrocytes in culture was accompanied by decreasing C-1-1 expression after several passages, while expression of hypertrophic markers increased. Expression of C-1-1 in cultured chondrocytes inhibited cell hypertrophy, alkaline phosphatase activity, and cartilage matrix mineralization. In contrast, over-expression of chERG promoted chondrocyte maturation and mineralization.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate for the first time that chERG and C-1-1 play distinct roles in skeletogenesis and may have crucial roles in the development and function of transient and permanent cartilages.

Carcinoma of the colon metastatic to the lower gingiva

A case of carcinoma of the colon that metastasized to the lower gingiva is described. The patient who had carcinoma of the colon developed a proliferating lesion at the site of a recent tooth extraction. A few days later, the primary site of the malignancy appeared. The clinical features in such cases were reviewed in studies by others, most of which were of oral and dental surgery. Thus, because of our case, gastroenterologists should consider the possibility of gingival metastasis from malignant disease such as colorectal cancer.

Randomized, controlled trial of lateral node dissection vs. nerve-preserving resection in patients with rectal cancer after preoperative radiotherapy

PURPOSE

The effectiveness of preoperative radiation therapy for advanced lower rectal carcinoma to preserve the function of pelvic organs and reduce local recurrences was examined in a prospective, randomized, controlled study.

METHODS

Fifty-one patients with a diagnosis of localized and resectable adenocarcinoma of the lower rectum undergoing 50 Gy of preoperative radiotherapy were recruited into the trial between April 1993 and March 1995. The patients were randomly allocated to complete autonomic nerve-preserving surgery without lateral node dissection (D1), or surgery with dissection of the lateral lymph nodes including autonomic nerves (D2) followed by oral administration of carmofur for one year.

RESULTS

No difference was observed in either survival or disease-free survival between D1 and D2 groups. There was no difference between the two groups in terms of recurrence rate. A significant difference was observed in urinary and sexual function (P = 0.02 and 0.02, respectively) one year after surgery between D1 and D2 groups.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that lateral node dissection is not necessary in terms of curability for patients with advanced carcinoma of the lower rectum who undergo preoperative radiotherapy.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids promote 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine formation through lipid peroxidation under the glutamate-induced GSH depletion in rat glioma cells

It has been reported that glutamate decreased the intracellular glutathione (GSH) concentration and thereby induced cell death in C6 rat glioma cells. Polyunsaturated fatty acids such as arachidonic acid, gamma-linolenic acid, and linoleic acid enhanced lipid peroxidation promoting 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG) formation under the glutamate-induced GSH-depletion. The enhancement of lipid peroxidation by polyunsaturated fatty acids was species-dependent. Some antioxidants capable of scavenging oxygen and lipid radicals and some iron or copper scavengers inhibited both the lipid peroxidation and the 8-OH-dG formation, consequently protecting against cell death induced by glutamate-induced GSH depletion. These results suggest that GSH depletion caused by glutamate induces lipid peroxidation and consequently 8-OH-dG formation and that polyunsaturated fatty acids enhance lipid peroxidation associated with mediated 8-OH-dG formation through a chain reaction.

Demonstration of the postcommissural fibres of the fornix in short-inversion time inversion-recovery imaging on a high-field system

Short-inversion time inversion-recovery (STIR) imaging using a 3 tesla system was assessed to reveal the postcommissural fibres (PF) of the fornix, which have rarely been highlighted neuroradiologically in the clinical setting. We studied 27 normal subjects. Sequence parameters were TR/TE/TI 8000/52/ 150 ms. STIR was expected to take advantage of the high signal-to-noise ratio of a high-field system, due to the long repetition time. PF were identifiable in axial and coronal slices in all cases. They were bordered anteriorly and superiorly by the anterior commissure and posteriorly and inferiorly by the mamillary body. Behind the anterior commissure, they ran in an arch-shaped posterior and inferior course in the hypothalamic nuclei and joined the mamillary body anterolaterally. They usually extended through three 3-mm slices (with 1 mm interslice gap) in anteroposterior and vertical dimensions. Little variation was observed in their course or size. Demonstration of the PF would provide a more detailed correlation of human neuroanatomy to hypothalamic function and individualised understanding of hypothalamic pathology and influence therapy.

Light- and guanosine 5'-3-O-(thio)triphosphate-sensitive localization of a G protein and its effector on detergent-resistant membrane rafts in rod photoreceptor outer segments

Detergent-resistant membrane microdomains in the plasma membrane, known as lipid rafts, have been implicated in various cellular processes. We report here that a low-density Triton X-100-insoluble membrane (detergent-resistant membrane; DRM) fraction is present in bovine rod photoreceptor outer segments (ROS). In dark-adapted ROS, transducin and most of cGMP-phosphodiesterase (PDE) were detergent-soluble. When ROS membranes were exposed to light, however, a large portion of transducin localized in the DRM fraction. Furthermore, on addition of guanosine 5'-3-O-(thio)triphosphate (GTPgammaS) to light-bleached ROS, transducin became detergent-soluble again. PDE was not recruited to the DRM fraction after light stimulus alone, but simultaneous stimulation by light and GTPgammaS induced a massive translocation of all PDE subunits to the DRM. A cholesterol-removing reagent, methyl-beta-cyclodextrin, selectively but partially solubilized PDE from the DRM, suggesting that cholesterol contributes, at least in part, to the association of PDE with the DRM. By contrast, transducin was not extracted by the depletion of cholesterol. These data suggest that transducin and PDE are likely to perform their functions in phototransduction by changing their localization between two distinct lipid phases, rafts and surrounding fluid membrane, on disc membranes in an activation-dependent manner.

FTIR spectroscopic analyses of human placental membranes

We investigated the differences in the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra of normal and abnormal human placentas. Normal placentas, placentas with infant intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and placentas from mothers with diabetes mellitus (DM) were used, none of which had been treated before measurement. The tissues were divided into three parts: the upper one-third portion (P1), the middle portion (P2), and the lower one-third portion (P3). Placental tissues were also investigated histochemically. The differences of the main second-derivative FTIR spectra among P1, P2, and P3 in normal placentas were observed in bands appearing between 1080 and 1090 cm(-1). Bands in P2 were observed at 1083 cm(-1), which was significantly higher than that in P3 (p < 0.05). The spectrum of P2 tissue in placentas with infant IUGR had a peak at 1081 cm(-1), which was significantly different from those of P1 and P3 (p < 0.05). In placentas with DM, the P2 band was shifted to a peak at 1088 cm(-1). These data were well correlated with the histochemical sugar-chain staining pattern of the P2 portion of the placenta. Our data suggested that this IR technique is applicable to the clinical diagnosis of diseases in the gynecological field.

Growth characteristics of ameloblastoma involving the inferior alveolar nerve: a clinical and histopathologic study

OBJECTIVE

Growth characteristics of ameloblastomas involving the inferior alveolar nerve were examined to determine the most appropriate surgical management of the nerve at the time of the surgical procedure.

STUDY DESIGN

Clinical and histopathologic examinations were performed on 22 resected mandibles in which the inferior alveolar nerve was lying adjacent to, or contained within, the tumor.

RESULTS

Patterns of tumor involvement of the nerve bundle were evaluated with respect to the presence of bone (11 patients) or connective tissue wall (7 patients) between the tumor and the nerve bundle, and tumor infiltration of perineural connective tissue (4 patients). Neither invasion into the nerve sheath nor invasion into the nerve itself by the ameloblastoma was detected. Tumor infiltration of the tissue surrounding the nerve was identified for the multicystic and solid types but not for the unicystic type. Presence of bone or connective tissue wall between the tumor and the nerve bundle was dominant in the unicystic and plexiform ameloblastomas, whereas tumor infiltration of the perineural tissue was frequently observed in ameloblastomas with the follicular pattern.

CONCLUSION

The preservation of the inferior alveolar nerve may be possible in the management of the unicystic type of ameloblastoma. However, a more radical approach is necessary for treatment of multicystic or solid tumors, especially those exhibiting a follicular pattern.

Dandy-Walker variant in Coffin-Siris syndrome

We describe a five-month-old male infant with Coffin-Siris syndrome, the so-called Dandy-Walker variant (hypoplasia of the cerebellar vermis with cystic dilatation of the fourth ventricle, but without enlargement of the posterior fossa), and partial agenesis of the corpus callosum. Dandy-Walker malformation and mega cisterna magna, but not Dandy-Walker variant, have been reported in Coffin-Siris syndrome. The presence of Dandy-Walker variant in the infant we described confirms that the full continuum of the Dandy-Walker complex can occur in Coffin-Siris syndrome. The yet unidentified gene(s) for the syndrome may be related to the development of the hindbrain.

Crystal structure of cis-prenyl chain elongating enzyme, undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase

Undecaprenyl diphosphate synthase (UPS) catalyzes the cis-prenyl chain elongation onto trans, trans-farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) to produce undecaprenyl diphosphate (UPP), which is indispensable for the biosynthesis of bacterial cell walls. We report here the crystal structure of UPS as the only three-dimensional structure among cis-prenyl chain elongating enzymes. The structure is classified into a protein fold family and is completely different from the so-called "isoprenoid synthase fold" that is believed to be a common structure for the enzymes relating to isoprenoid biosynthesis. Conserved amino acid residues among cis-prenyl chain elongating enzymes are located around a large hydrophobic cleft in the UPS structure. A structural P-loop motif, which frequently appears in the various kinds of phosphate binding site, is found at the entrance of this cleft. The catalytic site is determined on the basis of these structural features, from which a possible reaction mechanism is proposed.

Involvement of serum mannan binding proteins and mannose receptors in uptake of mannosylated liposomes by macrophages

The roles of serum mannan binding protein (MBP) and the mannose receptor in the cellular uptake of mannosylated liposomes (Man-liposomes) by macrophages were studied. Man-liposomes were prepared by incorporating cholesten-5-yloxy-N-(4-((1-imino-2-beta-D-thiomannosylethyl)amino)butyl)formamide (Man-C4-Chol) into small unilamellar long circulating liposomes consisting of cholesterol (Chol) and distearoyl phosphatidylcholine (DSPC). In the in vitro cellular uptake study with cultured mouse peritoneal macrophages, [(3)H]Man-liposomes were taken up to a great extent, whereas no significant uptake was observed for [(3)H]cholesterol and DSPC liposomes without Man-C4-Chol (Bare-liposomes). The uptake of [(3)H]Man-liposomes was dose- and temperature-dependent and inhibited by an excess of mannosylated bovine serum albumin, suggesting their specific uptake via membrane mannose receptor-mediated endocytosis. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that (111)In-MBP binds strongly to Man-liposomes based on the recognition of Man-C4-Chol and markedly enhanced their uptake by macrophages. These results are supported by confocal laser microscopic images. In addition, in vivo hepatic uptake of (111)In-MBP was enhanced by Man-liposomes. On the other hand, the uptake of Man-liposomes was significantly reduced by preincubation with serum and further with MBP-depleted serum suggesting inhibitory effects of serum proteins such as albumin on mannose receptor-mediated endocytosis. The involvement of serum-type MBP and membrane mannose receptors in the uptake of Man-liposomes is thus suggested.

Cross-talk between RANKL and FRP-1/CD98 Systems: RANKL-mediated osteoclastogenesis is suppressed by an inhibitory anti-CD98 heavy chain mAb and CD98-mediated osteoclastogenesis is suppressed by osteoclastogenesis inhibitory factor

The two pathways to osteoclastogenesis, RANKL-mediated and CD98-mediated osteoclastogenesis, have recently been reported. RANKL, OCIF, and TIMP-3 mRNAs are not found in monocytes freshly isolated or incubated with anti-FRP-1/CD98hc antibody. RANK, TACE, and M-CSF mRNAs can be detected in these cells. Interestingly, the expressed amount of RANK mRNA increases by cultivation of monocytes with anti-CD98hc antibody and maximal expression is observed in osteoclast-like cells. CD98-mediated cell aggregation and multinucleated giant cell formation are blocked by OCIF. OCIF also suppressed the CD98-mediated induction of Sp1 and c-src mRNAs in monocytes. Soluble RANK shows no effect on CD98-mediated cell aggregation and multinucleated giant cell formation. When blood monocytes were incubated with RANKL and M-CSF, c-src and Sp1 mRNAs were first found in blood monocytes incubated with these cytokines for 7 days. On the contrary, c-src mRNA could be detected 3 h after treatment of blood monocytes with anti-CD98hc mAb. LAT-1 mRNA was not found, and the expression levels of Y(+)LAT-1 and Y(+)LAT-2 mRNAs were not changed in monocytes stimulated without or with anti-CD98hc mAb or RANKL and M-CSF. An inhibitory mAb directed against CD98hc, HBJ 127, shows a suppressive effect on RANKL-mediated cell aggregation and cell fusion. Thus, there is cross-talk between these two pathways.

[A case of hookworm infestation with dissociation values between FDP-E and FDP-D dimer]

We previously reported a five-year-old girl showing bleeding tendency and transient morphological and functional platelet abnormalities probably due to a hookworm, Necator Americanus, infestation. In this report, we describe the rarely accelerated fibrinogenolysis and/or fibrinolysis in this patient whose value of fibrinogen and/or fibrin degradation products(FDP) determined with an FDP-E assay was much higher than that determined with a D-dimer assay. Namely, on day-1 and day-13 of hospitalization, her D-dimer values were only 10 to 20% of the prospected values from FDP-E values. We speculated this phenomenon was induced by circulating protease(-like) agent(s) produced by hookworm, because the only slightly participation of plasmin and/or granulocyte elastase was evaluated by the determination of enzyme-inhibitor complexes. And the other possibility of fibrinogen degradation by blast- or tumor-associated protease was excluded by the clinical manifestations and primary disorders. In conclusion, we report a very rare case with the accelerated fibrinogenolysis and/or fibrinolysis in a patient with the hookworm infestation. We are interested in the mechanism that manifested the patient's bleeding tendency accompanied with morphological and functional platelet abnormalities.

Co-segregation of benign infantile convulsions and paroxysmal kinesigenic choreoathetosis

We report seven families and two sporadic cases in which benign infantile convulsions and paroxysmal kinesigenic choreoathetosis were co-segregated. Clinical investigations included physical and neurological examinations, blood electrolyte values, interictal and ictal electroencephalograms, and computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging of the brain. The family pedigree was confirmed and the clinical history of the relatives was obtained. Seventeen individuals developed infantile convulsions followed by paroxysmal dyskinesias during childhood or adolescence. Six had only infantile convulsions, and two had only paroxysmal dyskinesias. The seizures never persisted into childhood or recurred in adulthood. The seizure type was a complex partial seizure, with or without secondary generalization, in nine of 14 patients. Paroxysmal dyskinesias, a subgroup of paroxysmal kinesigenic choreoathetosis, occurred for less than 5 min. The attacks of dyskinesias began at age 5-12 years in most patients, and tended to remit in adulthood. The mode of inheritance was apparently autosomal dominant in four of the families (17 affected individuals), who were diagnosed with ICCA syndrome (infantile convulsions and paroxysmal choreoathetosis). However, the condition occurred only among siblings in three families (six patients), and sporadically in two patients, suggesting genetic heterogeneity in this distinct co-segregation.

Induction of c-Src in human blood monocytes by anti-CD98/FRP-1 mAb in an Sp1-dependent fashion

Freshly isolated human blood monocytes expressed neither c-src mRNA nor c-Src. However, when monocytes were incubated with anti-CD98 heavy chain (HC) mAb, expression of c-src mRNA, c-Src, and activated c-Src was induced. Many binding sites for the ubiquitous transcription factor Sp1 were identified in the promoter region of the c-src gene. Surprisingly, Sp1 and Sp1 mRNA were not found in monocytes that were freshly isolated or incubated with control antibody. Stimulation with anti-CD98HC mAb also resulted in the expression of Sp1 and its translocation to the nucleus. Herbimycin A, genistein, manumycin A, PD-98059, SB203580, and HBJ127 suppressed CD98HC-mediated c-src and Sp1 mRNA induction. On the contrary, H-7, Wortmannin, HA1077, and Y-27632 showed no effect on c-Src and Sp1 induction. Furthermore, anti-CD98HC mAb induced activation of tyrosine kinases and ERK kinases. These findings suggest that the tyrosine kinase(s)-Ras-MAPK-Sp1 pathway(s) is involved in CD98HC-mediated induction of c-Src in human blood monocytes.

Partial seizures in leukoencephalopathy with swelling and a discrepantly mild clinical course

We report a patient with 'Leukoencephalopathy with swelling and a discrepantly mild clinical course', an entity of leukoencephalopathy recently clarified. Our patient presented with complex partial seizures in addition to characteristic radiological findings and clinical course. A review of the literature revealed that this new neurodegenerative disease complicates epilepsy in more than half of the patients, and that partial components in the seizure symptomatology are not infrequent.

Local and chronic application of PTH accelerates tooth movement in rats

We previously reported that whereas systemic continuous infusion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) accelerated orthodontic tooth movement, systemic but intermittent injection of PTH did not increase the rate of tooth movement. Analysis of these data suggested that continuous administration of PTH could be applicable for orthodontic therapy. In the present study, we investigated whether local and chronic application of PTH(1-34) would accelerate orthodontic tooth movement. To increase the residence time of PTH in the injected area, we used methylcellulose (MC) gel (2% W/V) for a slow-release formulation of PTH. MC gel containing PTH (PTH-MC) continuously released biologically active PTH into the acceptor medium for more than 72 hrs in vitro. When male rats received a local injection of PTH-MC into the subperiosteum in the mesio-palatal region of the maxillary first molar (M1) every other day, M1 movement, which was mesially drawn by an orthodontic coil spring attached to the maxillary incisors, was accelerated in a dose-dependent manner. PTH-MC injection at 1 microg/400 g body weight caused a 1.6-fold increase in the rate of tooth movement. The acceleration of tooth movement by PTH-MC injection was marked on days 6, 9, and 12. Local injection of PTH dissolved in saline without MC did not significantly accelerate tooth movement on day 6 or later. Histological examination revealed active osteoclastic bone resorption and a widened periodontal space on the compression side of the periodontal tissue in the PTH-MC-injected rats. These results suggest that local injection of PTH in a slow-release formulation is applicable to orthodontic therapy.

Hedgehog proteins stimulate chondrogenic cell differentiation and cartilage formation

Sonic hedgehog (Shh) and Indian hedgehog (Ihh) are important regulators of skeletogenesis, but their roles in this complex multistep process are not fully understood. Recent studies have suggested that the proteins participate in the differentiation of chondrogenic precursor cells into chondrocytes. In the present study, we have tested this possibility more directly. We found that implantation of dermal fibroblasts expressing hedgehog proteins into nude mice induces ectopic cartilage and bone formation. Immunohistological and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses revealed that the ectopic tissues derived largely if not exclusively from host cells. We found also that treatment of clonal prechondrogenic RMD-1 and ATDC5 cells in culture with Ihh or recombinant amino half of Shh (recombinant N-terminal portion of Shh [rShh-N]) induced their differentiation into chondrocytes, as revealed by cytoarchitectural changes, Alcian blue staining and proteoglycan synthesis. Induction of RMD-1 cell differentiation by Ihh or rShh-N was synergistically enhanced by cotreatment with bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) but was blocked by cotreatment with fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2). Our findings indicate that hedgehog proteins have the ability to promote differentiation of chondrogenic precursor cells and that their action in this process can be influenced and modified by synergistic or antagonist cofactors.