Production of VEGF and b-FGF in drainage fluid from patients undergoing incisional hernia repair

Wound healing is a complex process involving interaction between different cell types, such as growth factors. Among these, vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factors (b-FGF) are the most important. The aim of this study was to assess the production of VEGF and b-FGF in wound drainage fluid from patients undergoing incisional abdominal hernia repair. Ten female patients with abdominal midline incisional hernia undergoing surgical repair were included in this study. In all cases a closed suction drain was placed in the wound below the fascia and removed on postoperative day 4. Wound fluid was collected on the I, II, III and IV day and its amount at each time was recorded. VEGF and b-FGF production were evaluated as the quantity produced in 24 hours. In all patients the amount of drainage fluid from the surgical wound was highest on the I day after surgery, after which there was a significant reduction. VEGF production increased progressively after the operation proving significantly higher only on the IV day. The amount of b-FGF, in contrast, was higher on the I day, decreasing thereafter on the following postoperative days. Analysis of the production of growth factors in the drainage fluid has enabled us to better assess the events that occur following surgical wounds and has confirmed the physiology of the healing process and the possible use of these factors in modulating positive healing.

Effects of acupuncture on the expression of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2/bFGF) in the left sixth lumbar dorsal root ganglion following removal of adjacent dorsal root ganglia

This investigation studied the temporal changes in the expression of GDNF and FGF-2 in the left sixth lumbar (L6) dorsal root ganglion (DRG) after acupuncture in adult cats subjected to unilateral removal of adjacent DRG. The cats were divided into three groups. Group I were normal control animals. Group II cats were subjected to removal of DRG associated with the left L1-L5 and L7-S2 spinal nerves, sparing the L6 DRG. Group III cats received similar treatment as Group II ones, but in addition were subjected to acupuncture on the left side at acupuncture points (xuewei) the day after the operation. Both Groups II and III animals were perfused under anesthesia at 7 and 14 days post-operation (dpo) and their left DRG were processed for the immunohistochemical demonstration of GDNF and FGF-2. Following removal of adjacent DRG, the average number of all GDNF stained neurons in L6 DRG was decreased at 7 dpo and more so at 14 dpo. Acupuncture reversed this trend, as demonstrated in the increased average number of immunopositive small-to-medium sized neurons. FGF-2 expression was also less marked at 7 dpo but returned to normal at 14 dpo. Acupuncture significantly increased the average number of FGF-2 positive neurons compared with that in operated animals. This increase was observed in both large and small-to-medium sized neurons. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that the average number of GDNF and FGF-2 neurons in L6 DRG was decreased after unilateral removal of adjacent DRG but acupuncture could reverse some of the changes.

Role of Protein Kinase C-Ras-MAPK p44/42 in Ethanol and Transforming Growth Factor-β3-Induced Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Release from Folliculostellate Cells

In the present study, we determined the interactive effects of ethanol and transforming growth factor beta-3 (TGF-beta3) on basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) release from folliculostellate (FS) cells and the role of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway in this interaction. We found that TGF-beta3 and ethanol alone increased release of bFGF from FS cells, but together they showed markedly increased levels of bFGF compared with the individual effect. Ethanol and TGF-beta3 alone moderately increased activation of MAPK p44/42, but together they produced marked activation of MAPK p44/42. TGF-beta3 alone increased the activation of smad2. Ethanol did not activate smad2 or alter TGF-beta3 activation of smad2. Pretreatment of FS cells with a mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1/2 inhibitor or with a protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitor suppressed the TGF-beta3 and ethanol actions on MAPK p44/42 activation and bFGF release. Ethanol and TGF-beta3, either alone or in combination, increased the levels of active Ras. Furthermore, the MAPK p44/42 activation by TGF-beta3 and ethanol was blocked by overexpression of Ras N17, a dominant negative mutant of Ras p21. These data suggest that the PKC-activated Ras-dependent MAPK p44/42 pathway is involved in the cross talk between TGF-beta3 and ethanol to increase bFGF release from FS cells.

Expression and potential role of fibroblast growth factor 2 and its receptors in human embryonic stem cells

Although the detection of several components of the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) signaling pathway in human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) has been reported, the functionality of that pathway and effects on cell fate decisions are yet to be established. In this study we characterized expression of FGF-2, the prototypic member of the FGF family, and its receptors (FGFRs) in undifferentiated and differentiating hESCs; subsequently, we analyzed the effects of FGF-2 on hESCs, acting as both exogenous and endogenous factors. We have determined that undifferentiated hESCs are abundant in several molecular-mass isoforms of FGF-2 and that expression pattern of these isoforms remains unchanged under conditions that induce hESC differentiation. Significantly, FGF-2 is released by hESCs into the medium, suggesting an autocrine activity. Expression of FGFRs in undifferentiated hESCs follows a specific pattern, with FGFR1 being the most abundant species and other receptors showing lower expression in the following order: FGFR1 --> FGFR3 --> FGFR4 --> FGFR2. Initiation of differentiation is accompanied by profound changes in FGFR expression, particularly the upregulation of FGFR1. When hESCs are exposed to exogenous FGF-2, extracellular signal-regulated kinases are phosphorylated and thereby activated. However, the presence or absence of exogenous FGF-2 does not significantly affect the proliferation of hESCs. Instead, increased concentration of exogenous FGF-2 leads to reduced outgrowth of hESC colonies with time in culture. Finally, the inhibitor of FGFRs, SU5402, was used to ascertain whether FGF-2 that is released by hESCs exerts its activities via autocrine pathways. Strikingly, the resultant inhibition of FGFR suppresses activation of downstream protein kinases and causes rapid cell differentiation, suggesting an involvement of autocrine FGF signals in the maintenance of proliferating hESCs in the undifferentiated state. In conclusion from our data, we propose that this endogenous FGF signaling pathway can be implicated in self-renewal or differentiation of hESCs.

[The expression of TGF-beta1 and bFGF after LASEK and the effects of 20% ethanol exposure on corneal wound healing]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effects of 20% ethanol used in LASEK on corneal wound healing.

METHODS

Forty-eight eyes from 24 rabbits were deepithelialized by two techniques. The epithelium were detached with either 20% ethanol (applied for 30 seconds) or mechanical scraping, then ablated was performed. The number of superficial stromal keratocytes was counted and the morphologic changes were observed. Expression of TGF-beta1 and bFGF mRNAs was detected and analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemical methods at 1, 7, 30 and 90 days after the surgery.

RESULTS

One day after the surgery, the expression of TGF-beta1 and bFGF in the keratocytes in both treated groups was lower than that of the normal controls. Seven days after the surgery, the expression of TGF-beta1 and bFGF in both treated groups was greater than that of the normal controls (P < 0.01). The expression in the alcohol-treated group was greater than that of the surgical-treated group (P < 0.01). The expression of TGF-beta1 and bFGF reached the peak 30 days after the surgery, no significant difference was detected between the alcohol-treated and surgical-treated groups. There was no significant difference in expression level between the alcohol-treated and surgical-treated groups 3 months after the surgery; as well as between treated groups and normal group. The amount of TGF-beta1 and bFGF mRNA was positively correlated with the number of keratocytes. The correlation coefficient between TGF-beta1 and bFGF mRNA and the number of the keratocytes was 0.744 (P < 0.01) and 0.738 (P < 0.01) in the alcohol-treated group; and was 0.664 (P < 0.01) and 0.785 (P < 0.01) in the surgical-treated group, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of TGF-beta1 and bFGF mRNA undergo a dynamic process of "decrease-increase-normal". Although ethanol has a slight toxic effect on rabbit epithelial cells, but the effects do not persist over time, therefore, it is relatively safe to use the alcohol treatment in the LASEK.

Changes in Angiogenic Growth Factor Levels After Gefitinib Treatment in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

To investigate the changes in angiogenic growth factor expression before and after gefitinib treatment, and the association between this expression and response to gefitinib treatment, we measured circulating levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) -2 and -9, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase (TIMP) -1 and -2 in patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

METHODS

Serum and plasma samples were collected from 52 patients before and after gefitinib treatment. The levels of VEGF, bFGF, MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 were measured using a sandwich enzyme immunoassay kit.

RESULTS

Of the 52 patients, 17 (32.7%) achieved a partial response, 19 (36.5%) had stable disease and 16 (30.8%) had progressive disease. The levels of VEGF, bFGF, MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 did not change significantly after gefitinib treatment, even in responders. The levels of VEGF in volunteers, responders and non-responders were 384 +/- 86.4, 404 +/- 94.3 and 719 +/- 99.8 pg/ml, respectively. The difference between volunteers and responders was not significant (P = 0.540), while the differences between volunteers and non-responders (P = 0.031), and responders and non-responders (P = 0.028) were significant.

CONCLUSIONS

Although our results indicate that gefitinib treatment does not affect circulating levels of angiogenic growth factors even in patients who showed a response to gefitinib treatment, low levels of VEGF may predict response to gefitinib treatment in patients with NSCLC.

[Clinical research on relationship between angiogensis and TCM syndrome type of cyclomastopathy]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between angiogensis and TCM Syndrome type of cyclomastopathy (CMP) to investigate the objective standardization of TCM Syndrome diagnosis of the disease.

METHODS

One hundred and forty patients with CMP were divided into three groups according to TCM syndrome typing. The pathological type, grade and expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and microvascular density (MVD) in mammary biopsy were observed.

RESULTS

The expressions of VEGF, bFGF and MVD was different in CMP patients of different TCM types and pathological grades (P < 0.05). The proportion of atypical proliferation, the count of MVD and the expression of VEGF and bFGF were higher in patients of phlegm and stasis type than those in Gan stagnation caused Qistagnation type and Chong and Ren meridians disorder type.

CONCLUSION

TCM Syndrome type of CMP patients is related with vascular activity and grade of angiogensis. The pathological characteristics of mammary tissue and expression of VEGF, bFGF and MVD can be regarded as the objective indexes of TCM typing and clinical efficacy evaluation for CMP.

[Analysis of angiogenesis associated factors of retinoblastoma cell line and tumor tissues]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the factors regulating angiogenesis of retinoblastoma.

METHODS

Cultured retinoblastoma cells from HXO-Rb-44 cell lines were inoculated subcutaneously into the leg of nude-mice. Experimental retinoblastoma was studied by immunohistochemistry staining for the expression of angiogenesis factors (VEGF-A, VEGF-C, VEGF-D and bFGF), vascular endothelial cell membrane receptor tyrosine kinases (Flt-1, Flt-4, Flk-1, Tie-2 and FGFR), transcription regulated factor, Hif-1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2, MMP-7 and MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP-1 and TIMP-2).

RESULTS

There were plenty of capillaries and small vessels in the retinoblastoma. Some retinoblastoma cells expressed Hif-1 and most cells expressed VEGF at a high level, especially VEGF-D. Flt-1, Flt-4 and FGFR were found in vascular endothelial cells in the retinoblastoma. Three matrix metalloproteinases were positive and two tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases were negative in the retinoblastoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Down-regulated TIMP and up-regulated MMP and VEGF signal transduction play an important role in the occurrence of angiogenesis in the retinoblastoma. This could be considered as the target of retinoblastoma treatment.

Bioactive Glass Stimulates the Secretion of Angiogenic Growth Factors and Angiogenesis in Vitro

Neovascularization of tissue-engineered constructs remains a limiting factor for the engineering of larger tissue constructs. Attempts to stimulate neovascularization, using recombinant protein or gene transfer of angiogenic growth factors, have been proposed; however, these approaches have been associated with problems regarding the delivery and duration of exposure of the growth factor. This study was performed to determine the ability of biologically active glass to stimulate the secretion of angiogenic growth factors from human stromal cells and subsequent angiogenesis. CCD18Co human fibroblasts were cultured on tissue culture surfaces coated with specific quantities of 45S5 Bioglass particles. At 24-, 48-, and 72-h intervals the gene expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the protein secretion of VEGF and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) from fibroblasts were measured. The effect of conditioned medium collected from Bioglass-stimulated fibroblasts on human dermal microvascular endothelial cells was assessed using in vitro angiogenesis assays. Results showed that surfaces coated with Bioglass produced a significant increase in the secretion of VEGF and bFGF. Conditioned medium from stimulated fibroblasts significantly increased the proliferation of human dermal microvascular endothelial cells and induced a significant increase in the formation of anastomosed networks of human endothelial cell tubules. It is concluded that the ability of 45S5 Bioglass to stimulate the release of angiogenic growth factors and to promote angiogenesis provides a novel alternative approach for stimulating neovascularization of tissue-engineered constructs.

Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 in uterine endometrial cancer and anti-tumor effects of a selective COX-2 inhibitor

A role for cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in the development and progression of various tumors has been identified. Selective COX-2 inhibitors produce anti-proliferative effects in various cancer cell lines that express COX-2. However, the mechanisms underlying anti-tumor effects are unclear. Furthermore, few studies have studied COX-2 expression in gynecological cancers, especially endometrial cancer. The current study had two goals. We investigated the correlation between COX-2 expression and clinicopathological factors of uterine endometrial cancer. We also investigated effects of treatment with etodolac, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, on the uterine endometrial cancer cell line TMG-L, which expresses COX-2. We conclusively confirmed expression of COX-2 mRNA and protein in endometrial cancer that exceeded levels of COX-2 seen in normal endometrium. However, no significant correlations were observed between COX-2 expression in endometrial cancer tumor samples and clinicopathological factors or disease-free survival rate of patients with endometrial cancer. Study of COX-2 inhibition of TMG-L cells showed that etodolac produced dose-dependent inhibition of cell proliferation through G1 phase cell-cycle arrest. Etodolac-induced cell-cycle arrest might be caused by increases in p53 and P21WAF1 protein expression. Production of basic-fibroblast growth factor (bFGF, a pro-angiogenesis factor) was inhibited by etodolac in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, telomerase activity was inhibited and expression of hTERT mRNA was significantly inhibited with etodolac, leading to the conclusion that anti-tumor effects of etodolac on TMG-L cells are due to inhibition of both angiogenesis and telomerase activity. These results strongly suggest that COX-2 inhibitors have potential as therapeutic (and possibly, chemopreventive) agents for endometrial cancers that overexpress COX-2.

Effects of copper tripeptide on the growth and expression of growth factors by normal and irradiated fibroblasts

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of copper tripeptide (GHK-Cu) on the growth and autocrine production of basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor beta1, and vascular endothelial growth factor by normal and irradiated fibroblasts in a serum-free in vitro environment.

METHODS

Primary human dermal fibroblast cell lines were established after explantation from intraoperative specimens obtained from patients who had undergone radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. Normal and irradiated fibroblasts were propagated in serum- and growth factor-free media. Treatment groups were exposed to GHK-Cu (1 x 10(-9) mol/L). We measured cell counts and production of basic fibroblast growth factor, transforming growth factor beta1, and vascular endothelial growth factor.

RESULTS

Irradiated fibroblasts survived and replicated in serum-free media. The population-doubling times of normal and irradiated fibroblasts exposed to GHK-Cu were faster than those of nontreated controls. Irradiated fibroblasts treated with GHK-Cu doubled at a rate that approximated that of untreated controls, and produced significantly more basic fibroblast growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor than untreated controls early after GHK-Cu exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

Irradiated fibroblasts survive and replicate in serum-free media, establishing this model as ideal for evaluating growth factor production in vitro. Copper tripeptide accelerates the growth of normal and irradiated fibroblasts to the point where treated irradiated fibroblasts approximate the population-doubling time of normal controls. An early increase in basic fibroblast growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor production by GHK-Cu-treated irradiated fibroblasts may improve wound healing.

Pro-neoangiogenic cytokines (VEGF and bFGF) and anemia in solid tumor patients

Using a commercial ELISA assay, we evaluated circulating VEGF and bFGF levels in 203 consecutive patients with solid tumors, and sought a correlation between them and with the grade of anemia. Serum VEGF values were within the normal range in 128 patients (63.05%), with a mean value of 675.04 pg/ml (median, 571.00; range, 0-2796.54). The analysis of VEGF values per tumor group did not provide any statistically significant difference. Regarding bFGF, 143 patients (70.44%) had measurable, and thus abnormal, bFGF values. Overall, mean bFGF serum value was 57.14 pg/ml (median, 8.30; range, 0-4334.71), with the highest bFGF levels found in breast carcinoma patients. As expected, a large number of our patients was fairly anemic, mean hemoglobin level being 11.47 g/dl (median, 11.30; range, 7.1-19.20), the lowest titers being observed in prostate carcinoma patients. No statistically significant correlation was found between serum VEGF and hemoglobin values (r=0.004) but a significant negative correlation was seen between serum bFGF and hemoglobin (r=-0.22, p<0.05). Considering the different tumor groups, a statistically significant negative correlation between bFGF and hemoglobin becomes even more apparent in the subgroup of renal carcinoma patients (r=-0.55, p<0.05). In conclusion, our results demonstrate that there is a statistically significant correlation between systemic hypoxia (evaluated in terms of hemoglobin levels) and circulating bFGF values, but not VEGF; this correlation may lead to therapeutic interventions.

Immunohistochemical analysis of radiation-induced non-healing dermal wounds of the head and neck

Persistent, poorly healing wounds are a significant clinical problem in patients who have had previous irradiation. The pathology of chronic dermal ulcers is characterised by excessive proteolytic activity which degrades the extracellular matrix (required for cell migration) and growth factors and their receptors. Interestingly, the molecular basis of radiation-induced dermal wounds is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate, by immunohistochemistry, the expression of the endothelial marker vWF, of angiogenic bFGF, VEGF and IL-8, of collagenases MMP-2 and MMP-9 and their inhibitors TIMP-1 and TIMP-2, in tissue samples from radiation-induced chronic dermal wounds and healthy control skin. Performing immunohistochemical detection of microvessels, an equivalent density of microvessels was observed within tissue samples from normal healthy skin and from radiation-induced non-healing cutaneous wounds. Investigation of angiogenic bFGF and VEGF demonstrated a decreased expression of both factors in the radiation-induced dermal wounds. The expression of angiogenic IL-8 was weak in both the healthy skin samples and the radiation-induced wounds. In addition, an increased expression of collagenases MMP-2 and MMP-9 protein within the radiation-induced wounds was demonstrated. While the expression of TIMP-1 showed no difference of expression between normal control skin and tissue samples from radiation-induced wounds, TIMP-2 expression was slightly increased compared to healthy controls. Our data suggest that radiation-induced dermal injuries often fail to heal because of decreased angiogenesis and persistently high concentrations of MMPs with an imbalance of their tissue inhibitors. The basic mechanisms of wound healing in radiation-induced dermal wounds at the molecular level need to be understood further for the development of innovative treatment strategies.

Inhibition of angiogenic activity of renal carcinoma by an antisense oligonucleotide targeting fibroblast growth factor-2

BACKGROUND

Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) induces angiogenesis, critical for the growth and metastatic spread of tumors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of blocking FGF-2 synthesis by an antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide (PS-ODN2) was evaluated on the angiogenic activity of Caki-1 and of a cell line isolated from a renal carcinoma bone metastasis (CRBM-1990). After the transfection with PS-ODN2, FGF-2 mRNA, protein expression and angiogenic activity were evaluated.

RESULTS

In Caki-1, a not significant decrease in the released FGF-2 was observed after 72 hours. In CRBM-1990, a not significant decrease in intracellular FGF-2 protein was observed after 72 hours. Endothelial cell migration induced by the conditioned media from Caki-1 treated with PS-ODN2 for 72 hours was significantly reduced.

CONCLUSION

PS-ODN2 treatment of the established line Caki-1 induced minimal variations in FGF-2 expression, but inhibited endothelial cell migration. In CRBM-1990 cells, PS-ODN2 determined a decrease in intracellular protein without reducing the ability to induce endothelial cell migration and proliferation.

Dipeptidyl Peptidase Inhibits Malignant Phenotype of Prostate Cancer Cells by Blocking Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor Signaling Pathway

Dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) is a serine protease with tumor suppressor function. It regulates the activities of mitogenic peptides implied in cancer development. Progression of benign prostate cancer to malignant metastasis is linked to increased production of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), a powerful mitogen. In this study, using in vitro model system we show that DPPIV loss is associated with increased bFGF production in metastatic prostate cancer cells. DPPIV reexpression in prostate cancer cells blocks nuclear localization of bFGF, reduces bFGF levels, inhibits mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 activation, and decreases levels of urokinase-type plasminogen activator, known downstream effectors of bFGF signaling pathway. These molecular changes were accompanied by induction of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, inhibition of in vitro cell migration, and invasion. Silencing of DPPIV by small interfering RNA resulted in increased bFGF levels and restoration of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 activation. These results indicate that DPPIV inhibits the malignant phenotype of prostate cancer cells by blocking bFGF signaling pathway.

Expression of angiogenic factors is upregulated in DMBA-induced rat mammary pathologies

OBJECTIVE

In the 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) model of rat mammary carcinogenesis, microvascular density and angiogenic potential increase with progression from normal to invasive disease, but the mechanisms involved are unknown. Using RT-PCR, we determined the expression of angiogenic regulators in DMBA-induced intraductal hyperplasia (IDP), carcinoma in situ (CIS), invasive tumors (INV), as well as normal tissue.

METHODS

RT-PCR was performed on frozen tissue sections of each type of pathology for factors known to regulate angiogenesis in other systems.

RESULTS

MMP-2, MMP-9, uPA, PAI-1, IGF-2, BFGF, VEGF, ANG-1, IRS-1, and TSP-1 were significantly (p < or =0.05) upregulated in CIS and INV, whereas TIMP-1, ANG-2, MASPIN, IGF1-R and HBEGF were unchanged. IGF-1 was uniquely elevated in IDP. SPARC was downregulated in CIS. Inhibition of IGF-1R by the tyrphostin, AG1024, blocked endothelial tubulogenesis in vitro, confirming that IGF-1 functions as a regulator of angiogenesis.

CONCLUSIONS

These data support the involvement of specific angiogenic mediators in mammary tumor formation. Angiogenesis at different stages of tumorigenesis may be regulated by unique factors.

[Effects of Naoluo Xintong Recipe on expression of HSP70 and bFGF in focal ischemia-reperfusion rats]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the possible beneficial effects of administration of Naoluo Xintong Recipe (NLXT) on the expression of HSP70 and bFGF in rats subjected to ischemia-reperfusion with qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome.

METHODS

We blindly randomized 40 male Wistar rats into 5 groups which were categorized as follows: (1); sham-operated group; (2) rats subjected to transient middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion with qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome (control group); (3) NLXT-treated group; (4) NLXT-pretreated group; (5) Nao'an Capsule-treated group. Focal brain ischemia was induced by the intraluminal suture MCA occlusion method after qi deficiency and blood stasis syndrome had been made. The rats' brains were harvested at the 24h of reperfusion after 2h of MCA occlusion. The expression of HSP70 and bFGF was measured by by immunohistochemical staining.

RESULTS

Strong HSP70 immunoreactivity in neurons was observed in NLXT-treated and NLXT-pretreated groups as compared to control group, and increased bFGF immunoreactivity in neurons was observed in the ischemic hemisphere in NLXT-pretreated group in comparison with the ischemic hemisphere in the control group (P<0.01). NLXT has stronger effects on HSP70 and bFGF than Nao'an Capsule.

CONCLUSION

The neuroprotective effects of Naoluo Xintong Recipe may be related to its up-regulation of HSP70 and bFGF in the rat brain after focal cerebral ischemia.

Preoperative administration of GnRH-a plus tibolone to premenopausal women with uterine fibroids: evaluation of the clinical response, the immunohistochemical expression of PDGF, bFGF and VEGF and the vascular pattern

Aim of the study is to compare the effects of preoperative therapy with tibolone plus gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogue (GnRH-a) in premenopausal women with those of GnRH-a alone on clinical response, uterine volume, immunohistochemical expression of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vascular features of myomas. Seventy women with symptomatic uterine fibromatosis were treated for four months with leuprorelin acetate alone or plus tibolone. Untreated patients were submitted to uterine surgery directly. Uterine volume, hematological data, BMD, myoma-related symptoms and hot flushes were evaluated at the admission and before surgery. Immunohistochemical expression of PDGF, bFGF and VEGF, vascular changes and CD105 expression, as a marker of angiogenesis, were evaluated in myomas obtained after surgery. Uterine volume and myoma-related symptoms reduced and hematological variables increased in treated patients. BMD decreased in patients treated with GnRH-a alone. Hot flushes were less in GnRH-a plus tibolone group than in GnRH-a group. Immunohistochemical expression of PDGF, bFGF and VEGF, vascularization and angiogenesis reduced in treated patients in comparison with untreated ones. In conclusion, the administration of tibolone plus GnRH-a before uterine surgery does not change the clinical and immunohistochemical effects of GnRH-a alone.

[Relationship between bFGF mRNA and MMP-9 mRNA expression in gastric carcinoma and their clinicopathological features as well as patients survival]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the mRNA expression of bFGF and MMP-9 in gastric carcinomas and to find their correlation with tumor microvascular density (MVD), invasion, metastasis and patients survival.

METHODS

In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry technique were used to test the expression of bFGF mRNA and MMP-9 mRNA and protein of CD34 in 105 specimens of gastric carcinoma.

RESULTS

In situ hybridization revealed that the positive rates of bFGF mRNA and MMP-9 mRNA were 60.95 and 58.1%, respectively; The mean MVD (46.09 +/- 11.52, 43.75 +/- 13.41 piece/0.72 mm(2)) in tumors with bFGF mRNA and MMP-9 mRNA positive expression was significantly higher than that (29.41 +/- 12.47; 33.45 +/- 13.92 piece/0.72 mm(2)) in tumors with their negative expression, respectively; The positive expression rates of bFGF and MMP-9 mRNA were correlated to invasion depth (r(s) = 0.211, P = 0.031; r(s) = 0.335, P = 0.001, respectively), growing pattern (r(s) = 0.324, P = 0.001; r(s) = 0.267, P = 0.006, respectively), vessel invasion (r(s) = 0.579, P = 0.001; r(s) = 0.209, P = 0.032, respectively), lymph node metastasis (r(s) = 0.405, P = 0.001; r(s) = 0.343, P = 0.001, respectively) and distant metastasis (r(s) = 0.474, P = 0.001; r(s) = 0.468, P = 0.001, respectively), but not correlated to tumor type (r(s) = 0.134, P = 0.173; r(s) = 0.103, P = 0.145, respectively) and differentiation (r(s) = 0.096, P = 0.332; r(s) = 0.102, P = 0.298, respectively); And then, the mean MVD in tumors with infiltrating type, stage T(3)-T(4), vessel invasion, lymph node metastasis and distant metastasis was significantly higher than that in tumors with expanding type (t = 10.105, P = 0.001), stage T(1)-T(2) (t = 5.961, P = 0.001), non-vessel invasion (t = 7.394, P = 0.001), non-lymph node metastasis (t = 3.819, P = 0.01) and non-distant metastasis (r = 10.578, P = 0.001); There was a positive relationship between MVD and bFGF mRNA and MMP-9 mRNA (t = 3.207, P = 0.002; t = 7.035, P = 0.001), respectively; the mean survival time in cases with positive bFGF mRNA and MMP-9 mRNA and MVD value >/= 39.5 was significantly shorter than that in cases with their negative expression and MVD value < 39.5.

CONCLUSIONS

bFGF and MMP-9 promote angiogenesis in gastric cancer. Test of the expression of bFGF and MMP-9 may act as an useful index to determine angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis and patients survival.

Basic fibroblast growth factor and fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 in human meningiomas

The expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and fibroblast growth factor receptor-1 (FGFR-1) in human meningiomas and the relationships between their expression and the tumors' histological features and angiogenesis were investigated by means of immunohistochemical technique. The expression of bFGF and FGFR-1 was detected by antibody of bFGF or FGFR-1. The tumors' angiogenesis was evaluated by microvascular density (MVD) and, which was observed by use of CD34-antibody immunohistochemically. The results showed that there were varied degrees of the expression of bFGF and FGFR-1 proteins in meningiomas. The expression was correlated with the tumors' histological characters and angiogenesis. It was concluded that bFGF and FGFR-1 might play important roles in meningiomas' angiogenesis and proliferation. The expression positive rate of bFGF and FGFR-1 may provide an indication of evaluating the histological and malignant degree of the tumor.

Combined targeting of epidermal growth factor receptor and MDM2 by gefitinib and antisense MDM2 cooperatively inhibit hormone-independent prostate cancer

PURPOSE

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) may play a relevant role in the progression, hormone therapy resistance, and prognosis of prostate cancer patients. Also MDM2, a negative p53 regulator that interacts with retinoblastoma (Rb), E2F, p19(arf) and the ras-mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK) cascade plays an important role in prostate cancer progression and prognosis. On the basis of the EGFR and MDM2 role in integrating signaling pathways critical for prostate cancer progression, we investigated whether their selective combined blockade may have a cooperative antitumor effect in prostate cancer. For this purpose, we have used the EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor gefitinib (ZD1839, Iressa) and a second generation hybrid oligonucleotide antisense MDM2 (AS-MDM2), respectively.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Gefitinib and AS-MDM2 were administered to hormone-refractory and hormone-dependent human prostate cancer cells in vitro and to mice bearing tumor xenografts, evaluating the effects on growth, apoptosis, and protein expression, in vitro and in vivo.

RESULTS

We demonstrated that the combination of gefitinib and AS-MDM2 synergistically inhibits the growth of hormone-independent prostate cancer cells in vitro. This effect is accompanied by the inhibition of MDM2, phosphorylated Akt (pAkt), phosphorylated MAPK (pMAPK), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression and by Rb hypophosphorylation. The combination of the two agents in nude mice bearing the same hormone-independent tumors caused a potent cooperative antitumor effect. Tumor samples analysis confirmed the inhibition of MDM2, pAkt, pMAPK, VEGF, and basic fibroblast growth factor expression.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that EGFR and MDM2 play a critical role in the growth of prostate cancer, especially hormone-dependent, and that their combined blockade by gefitinib and AS-MDM2 causes a cooperative antitumor effect, supporting the clinical development of this therapeutic strategy.

Expression of basic fibroblast growth factor in rat liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cells

The expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in rat liver fibrosis and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and the relationship between the expression of bFGF and rat liver fibrogenesis were studied. Sixty male SD rats (230-260 g) were divided into 4 groups randomly (the 0 week group, 1 week group, 4 week group and 8 week group). Liver fibrosis was induced by subcutaneous injection of carbon tetrachloride. The sections of rats' liver in each group were tested by Van-Gieson (V-G) staining and immunohistochemistry. The expression of bFGF mRNA was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). HSCs were isolated by the combined methods of collagenase IV perfusion and density gradient centrifugation. The expression of bFGF protein in cultured HSCs was detected by Western blot. Images of immunohistochemistry detection, agarose gel electrophoresis of RT-PCR and SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of Western blot were analyzed semiquantitatively by image-analyzing system. The results were analyzed by statistics. The results showed that the fibers were gradually increased in the sections of rat liver with the prolongation of the model induction. At the end of the 8th weeks, liver fibrosis was formed. The expression of bFGF detected by immunohistochemistry showed a similar tendency of gradual increase. At the end of the 8th weeks, the bFGF expression could be observed in many regions in sections and the strongest expression was in interstitial cells including HSCs and some hepatocytes in regions around the portal area and central veins. Also there was moderate expression widely in extracellular matrix (ECM). In RT-PCR detection and Western blot detection of HSCs cultured in vitro, the similar tendency of gradual increase was evident either. It is suggested that bFGF is related with liver fibrosis of rats closely and may be a fibrogenesis factor of liver. bFGF possibly regulates liver fibrogenesis through regulating metabolism of extracellular matrix (ECM) by autocrine and paracrine stimulation.

Differential effects of reproductive and hormonal state on basic fibroblast growth factor and glial fibrillary acid protein immunoreactivity in the hypothalamus and cingulate cortex of female rats

Morphological changes in astrocytes occur in a number of brain regions including the hypothalamus and hippocampal regions as a function of hormonal and reproductive state. Because basic fibroblast growth factor has been shown to play an important role in morphological changes in astrocytes, we investigated whether basic fibroblast growth factor immunoreactivity would also be influenced by reproductive state and circulating gonadal steroids. To do this we compared astrocytic basic fibroblast growth factor and glial fibrillary acid protein immunoreactivity in hypothalamic nuclei and the cingulate cortex, area 2 among groups of cycling, late pregnant and lactating rats as well as in ovariectomized and ovariectomized hormone-replaced females. Significant differences in both basic fibroblast growth factor and glial fibrillary acid protein immunoreactivity were observed across groups in the supraoptic nucleus, parvocellular paraventricular nucleus, medial preoptic area of the hypothalamus and cingulate cortex 2. The pattern of change in basic fibroblast growth factor and glial fibrillary acid protein immunoreactivity varied across regions both in direction and magnitude. For example, although in the supraoptic nucleus ovariectomized rats had lower levels of basic fibroblast growth factor-ir than cycling females, this pattern was reversed within cingulate cortex. Overall the results of this study suggest that reproductive and hormonal states are associated with robust changes in basic fibroblast growth factor and glial fibrillary acid protein immunoreactivity in a number of brain areas but that the changes observed vary in magnitude as well as direction from one brain region to another.

Nicotine-induced FGF-2 mRNA in rat brain is preserved during aging

Indirect trophic actions of nicotine on brain during aging are suggested from observations describing nicotine as a cognitive enhancer, increasing vigilance and improving learning and memory, and both in vitro and in vivo models have demonstrated neuroprotective effects of nAChR agonists. Previously, we have reported that an acute intermittent (-)nicotine treatment significantly increases fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) mRNA and protein in several brain regions of rat brain. The present study was designed to analyse if nicotine-induced FGF-2 expression in the rat brain was preserved during aging. Using in situ hybridization and quantitative RNase protection assay the present paper reports that during aging (12- and 24-month-old rats) the response of FGF-2 gene expression in the rat brain to nAChR stimulation by (-)nicotine is fully effective and involves both neurons and glial cells. The investigation was extended to other members of the FGF family, such as FGF-5 and -20, but this expression was not influenced by the (-)nicotine treatment at any age studied. Similarly following (-)nicotine treatment no changes were observed in FGF receptors (FGFR 1-3) mRNA levels in adult and aged rats. Taken together, the present and previous data support the hypothesis that neuroprotective effects of (-)nicotine and the potential beneficial effects of (-)nicotine agonists in the treatment of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, may at least in part involve an activation of the neuronal and glial FGF-2 signalling. Work is in progress to analyse the mechanism(s) linking nAChR activation to the up-regulation of FGF-2.

[Expression of pituitary tumor transforming gene, endostatin, and basic fibroblast growth factor mRNAs in invasive pituitary adenomas]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of the expression of pituitary tumor transforming gene (PTTG), endostatin and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in invasive pituitary adenomas.

METHODS

Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to detect the expression of PTTG, endostatin, and bFGF mRNA in invasive and non-invasive pituitary adenomas.

RESULTS

The expression of PTTG and bFGF significantly increased in the invasive pituitary adenomas (all P < 0.01) compared with those in the non-invasive pituitary adenomas. However, the expression of endostatin significantly decreased in the invasive pituitary adenomas compared with the non-invasive pituitary adenomas (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Increased expression of human PTTG and bFGF, and decreased expression of endostatin may be related to the genesis of tumor invasiveness. The feasible mechanism may be related to that the increased expression of PTTG plays a role in pituitary tumor invasiveness by altering the balance of tumor angiogenesis.

Engineering and expression of a recombinant fusion protein possessing fibroblast growth factor-2 and fibronectin fragment

There is a synergistic effect between fibronectin and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) on osteoblast cell adhesion through an extracellular, signal-regulated kinase pathway. Here we describe the engineering of a fusion protein containing fibronectin fragment (FNIII9-10) connected to the COOH-terminus of FGF-2. Purified FGF2-FNIII9-10 fusion protein exhibited a significant increase of cell adhesion and proliferation of MG63 cells compared with FNIII9-10 alone (p < 0.05).

Immunohistochemical expression of FGF-2, PDGF-A, VEGF and TGF beta RII in the pancreas in the course of ischemia/reperfusion-induced acute pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis leads to pancreatic damage followed by subsequent regeneration. The aim of our study was to evaluate the presence of growth factors in the course of spontaneous pancreatic regeneration after ischemia/reperfusion (I/R)-induced pancreatitis.

METHODS

In rats, I/R was evoked by clamping of splenic artery for 30 min followed by reperfusion. Rats were sacrificed 1, 5, 12 h or 1, 2, 3, 5, 7, 9 or 21 days after removal of vascular clips. Pancreatic blood flow (PBF), plasma lipase, interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), interleukin-10, pancreatic cells proliferation and morphological signs of pancreatitis were determined. Pancreatic presence of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), platelet-derived growth factor-A (PDGF-A) and transforming growth factor-beta type II receptor (TGFbeta RII) was detected by immunohistochemisty.

RESULTS

Exposure to I/R led to the development of acute necrotizing pancreatitis followed by regeneration. Morphological features showed maximal pancreatic damage between the 1(st) and 2(nd) day of reperfusion. It was correlated with a maximal increase in plasma lipase, and pro-inflammatory IL-1beta concentration, as well as, a reduction in PBF and pancreatic DNA synthesis. I/R increased FGF-2 content in pancreatic acinar cells between the 12(th) and 24(th) h, and between 5(th) and 9(th) day of reperfusion. At the 2(nd) day the presence of FGF-2 in pancreatic acinar cells was reduced. After I/R PDGF-A appeared in pancreatic vessels from the 12(th) h to 5 (th) day of reperfusion. PDGF-A was not observed in pancreatic acinar cells in the control or in I/R group. In pancreatic ducts, the presence of PDGF-A was reduced between the 1(st) and 3(rd), and between 7(th) and 9(th) day of reperfusion. In acinar cells, VEGF content was increased after I/R at the time between the 1(st) and 24(th) h, and between 3(rd) and 7(th) day of reperfusion. At the 2(nd) day of reperfusion, VEGF was not detected in the pancreatic acinar cells. Moreover, VEGF was found in the inflammatory infiltration, in the tubular complexes between the 2(nd) and 5(th) day, and in granulation tissue at the 9(th) day of reperfusion. In pancreatic acinar cells, I/R caused an increase in TGFbeta RII presence between the 5(th) and 24(th) h, and between 7(th) and 9(th) day of reperfusion. Between the 2(nd) and 5(th) day of reperfusion the acinar presence of TGFbeta RII was reduced. In the pancreatic ducts, the presence of TGFbeta RII was increased after I/R from the 1(st) h to 9(th) day of observation. Four weeks after induction of acute pancreatitis, the pancreatic regeneration was completed and the presence of growth factors tested returned to control value.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of FGF, VEGF, PDGF-A and TGFbeta RII is modified in the course of I/R-induced acute pancreatitis. Maximal content of FGF, VEGF and TGFbeta RII has been observed in early stage of pancreatic regeneration suggesting the involvement these factors in pancreatic recovery.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) expression during induced luteolysis in the bovine corpus luteum

Angiogenic factors, like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF), and their receptors, are strongly regulated during the development of bovine corpus luteum (CL). The aim of this study was to investigate real-time changes of these factors in luteal tissue of cows (n = 4-5 per group) in the mid-luteal phase (day 8-12) after intramuscular injection of the PGF2alpha-analog Cloprostenol. Before (control) and 2, 4, 12, 48, and 64 hr after prostaglandin (PG) injection, CL were collected by transvaginal ovariectomy. RT-PCR for VEGF, VEGF-receptor type 1 (VEGF-R1), VEGF-R2, acidic FGF (FGF-1), basic FGF (FGF-2), and FGF-receptor (FGF-R) was performed. Additionally, the protein concentration for VEGF was determined. The mRNA expression of VEGF and its two receptors (VEGF-R1 and -R2) was significantly downregulated during structural luteolysis (after 12 hr). VEGF protein concentration already significantly declined 2 hr after PGF2alpha. Surprisingly FGF-1 and FGF-2 were significantly and maximally upregulated during functional luteolysis (until 12 hr). Furthermore, FGF-R mRNA was significantly upregulated at 2 hr after PGF2alpha, when compared with the control group. During structural luteolysis, the expression of FGFs and their receptors was not significantly different from control, except FGF-2 mRNA, which was downregulated at 64 hr. We conclude that the cessation of VEGF-support for the CL plays a role during structural luteolysis, whereas FGFs seem to have a major impact on functional luteolysis. The possible role of these growth factors could be a transient counter-regulation of luteolysis, but also an involvement in preventing inflammatory reactions during luteal regression.

Estrogen enhances angiogenesis through a pathway involving platelet-activating factor-mediated nuclear factor-kappaB activation

In this study, we investigated the molecular events involved in estrogen-induced angiogenesis. Treatment of the human endometrial adenocarcinoma cells, HEC-1A, with estrogen up-regulated mRNA expression and protein synthesis of various angiogenic factors such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1, basic fibroblast growth factor, and vascular endothelial growth factor. The estrogen-dependent induction of the expression was blocked by the platelet-activating factor (PAF) antagonists, WEB 2170. Estrogen treatment caused the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB in HEC-1A cells and was also blocked by PAF antagonist. Inhibitors of NF-kappaB activation inhibited estrogen-induced mRNA expression and protein synthesis of the angiogenic factors. Estrogen led to a pronounced angiogenesis as assessed by a mouse Matrigel model in vivo and endothelial cell sprouting in vitro. PAF antagonists or NF-kappaB inhibitors significantly inhibited this estrogen-dependent angiogenesis. Estrogen caused phospholipase A2 (PLA2) gene and protein expression. Estrogen-induced vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA expression and sprouting were significantly inhibited by PLA2 inhibitors, suggesting PLA2 expression is the upstream pathway in the estrogen-induced angiogenesis. Taken together, these results suggest that estrogen induces the production of angiogenic factors via a mechanism involving PAF-mediated NF-kappaB activation.

Expression of lymphangiogenic factors and evidence of intratumoral lymphangiogenesis in pancreatic endocrine tumors

Lymphangiogenesis is thought to promote the progression of malignant tumors. Because the lymphangiogenic factors vascular endothelial factor (VEGF)-C and -D are expressed in endocrine cells, we investigated their expression in pancreatic endocrine tumors (PETs) and correlated these data and intratumoral lymph vessel density (iLVD) with clinicopathological features. Lymph vessels were identified with anti-podoplanin antiserum and with podoplanin/proliferating cell nuclear antigen double labeling. PETs (n = 104) were investigated by immunohistochemical staining for VEGF, basic fibroblast growth factor, and VEGF-C expression. VEGF-C and VEGF-D mRNA were quantified by real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. PETs showed higher iLVD than normal pancreata, but iLVD did not discriminate between benign and malignant PETs. In PETs proliferating lymph vessels were identified. High iLVD was associated with lymph vessel invasion and it was more frequent in angioinvasive/metastatic tumors than in grossly invasive tumors. VEGF-C expression correlated with iLVD as well as with glucagon and pancreatic polypeptide expression. PETs show intratumoral lymphangiogenesis, which is associated with VEGF-C expression in tumor cells. The association between iLVD and lymph vessel invasion and angioinvasive/metastatic features in PETs suggests that lymphangiogenesis may promote malignant progression of PETs. PET is the first human tumor entity in which VEGF-C-related intratumoral lymphangiogenesis has been demonstrated.

[Expression of angiogenic factors and their clinical significances in acute myeloid leukemia]

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) & basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in primary acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells, and study plasma VEGF& bFGF concentration in patients with AML and the two factors' clinical significance.

METHODS

VEGF&bFGF and their receptors mRNA expression were detected by RT-PCR; VEGF & bFGF plasma level was analyzed by ELISA.

RESULTS

In 107 AML patients, the positive mRNA expression rate of VEGF, KDR and Flt1 was 56.1%, 49.5%, and 2.8%, respectively; for bFGF and FGFR1-4, the positive rate was 21.5%, 35.5%, 9.4%, 35.5% and 23.4%, respectively. VEGF concentration in AML (154.75+/-109.98) pg/ml was significantly higher than that in AML-CR (72.05+/-23.39) pg/ml and the normal control (99.91+/-41.87) pg/ml (P< 0.05). Nevertheless, the level of bFGF had no significant difference among AML, AML-CR and the normal control. VEGF level (124.05+/-76.57) pg/ml in patients, who got complete remission (CR) after 2 cycles of chemotherapy, was remarkably lower than that (211.243+/-169.88) pg/ml in patients without CR (P< 0.05). Furthermore, the higher the concentration of VEGF & bFGF, the shorter the survival was.

CONCLUSION

VEGF& bFGF and their receptors mRNA in leukemic patients could be expressed to some degree,and our investigation suggested VEGF &bFGF and their receptors probably be produced by autocrine or paracrin. Abnormally high level of VEGF may be a poor factor for chemotherapy and survival in AML. The prognosis of patients with AML may be improved by treating VEGF and their receptors as therapy targets.

[An experimental study on the repair mechanism after pulmonary embolism]

OBJECTIVE

To study the role of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and small vascular density in the repair mechanism after pulmonary embolism (PE).

METHODS

After peripheral pulmonary arteries had been embolized, 8 dogs were killed 1, 7, 14, and 28 days after embolization. One piece of tissue was taken from the region embolized and unembolized respectively, then HE staining and immunohistochemical staining were performed. The pathological change of the lung, changes of small vascular density and expression of bFGF were observed, and were compared between regions embolized and unembolized at different time points.

RESULTS

(1) The course of pathological change during the pulmonary embolism period. (2) The bFGF was increased from 1st day to 14th day after PE (1st day: chi(2) = 44.335, 7th day: chi(2) = 71.911, 14th day: chi(2) = 84.460; P < 0.01), and decreased to normal on 28th day (chi(2) = 2.961, P > 0.05). (3) Small vascular density in embolized region (4.56 +/- 0.50) showed no statistical difference from that of unembolized region (4.11 +/- 0.76) on 1st day (P > 0.05), while it (7th day: 10.17 +/- 1.08, 14th day: 10.54 +/- 0.93, 28th day: 11.47 +/- 1.11) was significantly higher than that of unembolized region (7th day: 6.17 +/- 0.90, 14th day: 7.55 +/- 1.19, 28th day: 7.03 +/- 1.24) after embolized 7, 14, 28 days (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

After PE, with increased expression of bFGF in embolized region, the formation of collateral arteries between pulmonary artery system and bronchial artery system is promoted, and absorption of the transuded blood cells and fluid is accelerated. This mechanism may be important in prevent pulmonary infarction.

[Effect of autoskin grafting in fault hypodermis wound of granulation excision on full-thickness burn healing]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the mechanism of full-thickness burn wound healing with autoskin grafting in fault hypodermis wound of granulation excision and to evaluate its effect.

METHODS

By the techniques of clinical observation, histopathology, immunohistochemistry, TEM and FCM, we observed changes of the activity and structure of grafted skin and the granulation tissue, collagnous fiber,microvessels,the ultramicrostructure of fibroblasts and the expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in the base of autoskin grafting in fault hypodermis wound in burned adult minipigs (Group A), and compared with traditional method of autoskin grafting on the basilar fibrous tissue wound of scraped partly granulation being (Group B) and control group (Group C, without treatment except de-fur).

RESULTS

The grafted skin survived after 3 days of operation, and it had less injury and higher proliferative index (PI) in group A than in group B. The hyperplasia of granulation tissue and vascular endothelial and the expression of bFGF were more evident in group A. After 5 days, the proliferation of endothelial cells and granulation and the protein synthesis of fibroblasts were more active in group A, and at this moment, fresh collagen appeared and proliferated more actively in group B. After 7-14 days, epidermic structure and dermic microvascular density became normal gradually, the granulation on grafting base matured and transformed into fibrous connective tissue in group A. The same change deferred about 2 days in group B. After 21 days, the above pathologic change in group A was less than that in group B. After 30-60 days of operation, Group A achieved much less contraction and transfiguration than Group B, and the grafted skin was tender and movable.

CONCLUSION

Autoskin grafting in fault hypodermis wound of granulation excision has a better effect than traditional operation.

Expression of FGF-2 alters focal adhesion dynamics in migration-restricted

Basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) expression takes place during morphogenic differentiation of mammary ducts and is lost in breast cancer. Forced re-expression of FGF-2 in breast cancer cell lines induces a more differentiated phenotype and inhibits motility by unknown mechanisms. Here we demonstrate that MDA-MB-231 cells with encumbered motility due to forced re-expression of FGF-2 have activated focal complexes as determined by immunoprecipitation/western blotting and immunofluorescence staining with antibodies to FAK, p130Cas, paxillin, vinculin and phosphotyrosine. The activation of the focal adhesion complexes results in loss of stress fibers associated with malignant transformation of mammary epithelial cells and the formation of circumferentially-distributed actin bundles associated with non-transformed mammary epithelial cells. These effects require continuous FGF-2 expression, as the effects of exogenous recombinant FGF-2 are only small and transient. FGF-2 expression results in an increase in integrin alpha 3 expression and decreases in integrin beta 1 and beta 4 expression. These changes, however, induce only a small decrease in adhesion to uncoated and fibronectin-coated tissue culture dishes suggesting that the primary cause of impaired motility is due to intrinsic signaling. These data suggest that FGF-2-inhibits motility in breast cancer cells by stabilization of focal complexes and induction of a more differentiated phenotype with disruption of stress fiber formation and a characteristic cortical actin distribution.

Mechanism by which H-2g, a glucose analog of blood group H antigen, mediates angiogenesis

The 4A11 antigen is a unique cytokine-inducible antigen up-regulated on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) synovial endothelial cells (ECs) compared with normal ECs. Previously, we showed that in soluble form, this antigen, Lewis(y)-6/H-5-2 (Le(y)/H) or its glucose analog, 2-fucosyl lactose (H-2g), induced the expression of EC intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and leukocyte-endothelial adhesion through the Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway. Currently, we show that H-2g induces release of EC angiogenic basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an effect inhibited by decoy nuclear factor kappaB (NFkappaB) oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN). JAK2 and phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) are 2 upstream kinases of NFkappaB activated by H-2g, as confirmed by an inhibitor of kappa B kinase (IKKbeta) assay. In vitro, H-2g induces vascular sprouting in the rat aortic ring model, whereas blockade of JAK2, PI3K, or NFkappaB inhibits sprouting. Likewise, in the in vivo mouse Matrigel plug angiogenesis assay, chemical inhibitors and antisense or decoy ODNs of JAK2, PI3K, or NFkappaB decrease angiogenesis, confirming the importance of these pathways in H-2g-induced EC signaling. The critical role of Le(y)/H involvement in angiogenesis and its signaling pathways may provide new targets for therapy of diseases characterized by pathologic neovascularization.

Treatment of Muscle Injuries by Local Administration of Autologous Conditioned Serum: Animal Experiments Using a Muscle Contusion Model

Muscle contusions represent a major part of sports injuries. The suggested treatments are generally sufficient to support muscle healing, but require a relatively long period of time. Given that autologous blood products are safe treatments, we have used a technique which stimulates the release of certain growth factors in the autologous conditioned serum (ACS). Those growth factors are known to improve the proliferative activity of myogenic precursor cells. Mice were subjected to an experimental contusion injury to their gastrocnemius muscle; one group received local injections of ACS at 2 hrs, 24 hrs, and 48 hrs after injury, a control group received saline injections. The histology results showed that satellite cell activation at 30/48 hrs post injury was accelerated and the diameter of the regenerating myofibers was increased compared to the controls within the first week after injury. ELISA results on the ACS have shown that the elevations in FGF-2 (460 %) and TGF-beta1 (82 %) could be partly responsible for the accelerating effects on regeneration due to proliferative and chemotactic properties. We conclude that ACS injection is a promising approach to reduce the time of recovery from muscle injury. In terms of clinical targets, this new approach could be used in the treatment of sports injuries and may also be interesting in postoperative situations.

[Construction and expression of basic fibroblast growth factor mammalian expression vector]

OBJECTIVE

To construct a mammalian expression vector of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and to investigate the expression of bFGF in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

A mammalian expression vector pcDNA3. 1/ myc-His(-)C-bFGF was constructed with gene cloning technique. The mammalian expression system was prepared and purified. The expression of bFGF cDNA in cultured transfected cells was examined by RT-PCR and cell immunohistochemistry. The recombinant plasmids, pcDNA3. 1/myc-His(-)C-bFGF and pCD2-VEGF121, were transferred into rabbit cervical muscle by direct injection of plasmid following electric pulses in vivo. The transferred gene expression and the biological effect were measured by use of histochemistry and immunohistochemistry analysis.

RESULTS

The eukaryon expression system pcDNA3. 1/myc-His (-)C-bFGF could express the target protein bFGF in vitro. The recombinant plasmids, pcDNA3. 1/myc-His(-)C-bFGF and pCD2-VEGF121 were transferred into muscles flap in vivo successfully. The active proteins bFGF and VEGF121 were expressed at high levels. Blood vessels increased significantly in the muscles, and blood circulation was improved by local angiogenesis.

CONCLUSION

The eukaryon expression vector of bFGF is constructed and can be expressed successfully in vitro and in vivo. That is a primary preparation for the research on tissue transplantation and tissue engineering with bFGF gene therapy.

Expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in the vascular wall during arteriogenesis

Nitric oxide (NO) has been demonstrated to play an important role in angiogenesis, and also to be involved in collateral vessel growth. The expression of endothelial NO synthase (eNOS) is moderated partly by blood flow-induced mechanical factors, i.e., shear stress. The purpose of this study was to evaluate how the expression of eNOS correlates with the development of collateral vessels in dog heart, induced by chronic occlusion of the left circumflex artery. Immunoconfocal microscopy using an antibody against eNOS was used to detect expression of eNOS in different stages of arteriogenesis. Collateral vessels were classified into normal, growing and mature vessels by using the cytoskeleton marker desmin. Expression of the growth factors bFGF and metallproteinase-2 (MMP-2) was also examined. The data show that in normal arteriolar vessels, expression of eNOS is very low, but in growing collateral vessel there is a 6.2-fold increase, which, however, returned to normal levels in mature collateral vessels. The expression of eNOS was localized only in endothelium, either in normal or growing vessels. bFGF was very weakly stained in normal vessels, but highly expressed in growing collateral vessels. MMP-2 was strongly stained in neointima, but very weak in endothelium. In addition, we also examined expression of iNOS because iNOS may be induced in vessel injury or in disease states, but it was not detected in either normal or growing collateral vessels. Our findings indicate that the expression pattern of eNOS is closely associated with the development of collateral vessels, suggesting that eNOS plays an important role in arteriogenesis.

Enhancement of wound healing by shikonin analogue 93/637 in normal and impaired healing

Wound healing is a complicated biological process, which involves interactions of multiple cell types, various growth factors, their mediators and the extracellular matrix proteins. In this study, we evaluated the effects of shikonin analogue 93/637 (SA), derived from the plant Arnebia nobilis, on normal and hydrocortisone-induced impaired healing in full thickness cutaneous punch wounds in rats. SA (0.1%) was applied topically daily as an ointment in polyethylene glycol base on wounds. SA treatment significantly accelerated healing of wounds, as measured by wound contraction compared to controls in hydrocortisone-impaired animals. SA treatment promoted formation of granulation tissue including cell migration and neovascularization, collagenization and reepithelialization. The expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was higher as revealed by immunohistochemistry in treated wounds compared to controls. However, the expression of transforming growth factor-beta(1) was not affected by SA treatment. Since bFGF is known to accelerate wound healing, the increased expression of bFGF by SA may be partly responsible for the enhancement of wound healing. These studies suggest that SA could be further studied for clinical use to enhance wound healing.

Hyperglycemia upregulates translation of the fibroblast growth factor 2 mRNA in mouse aorta via internal ribosome entry site

Fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) is normally synthesized at low levels but is elevated in various pathophysiological conditions including diabetes-associated vascular diseases. FGF-2 expression is regulated translationally through an internal ribosome entry site (IRES) located in its mRNA, which allows a nonclassical cap-independent translation. We addressed the pathophysiological regulation of the IRES in vivo by using a streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemic model known to suppress markedly overall translation. Evaluation of FGF-2 IRES-dependent translation was performed with transgenic mice expressing dual luciferase bicistronic mRNA containing the FGF-2 IRES. FGF-2 IRES-dependent reporter activity increased 240% of control in the diabetic aorta although the reporter mRNA levels significantly decreased. Expression of endogenous FGF-2 protein in the aorta closely correlated with the IRES activity but not with FGF-2 mRNA levels. Moreover, the biosynthesis of endogenous FGF-2 protein was stimulated in an IRES-dependent manner by high glucose that significantly suppressed global protein synthesis in aortic smooth muscle cells from the transgenic mice. These results suggest that IRES-dependent translational regulation could play a pathological role in FGF-2 expression in vivo, especially in the cardiovascular consequences of diabetes.

[Expression of pituitary tumor-transforming gene in endometrial carcinoma]

OBJECTIVE

To study the expression of pituitary tumor-transforming gene (PTTG) and its relationship with the expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) protein and microvessel density (MVD) in endometrial carcinoma.

METHODS

Expressions of PTTG mRNA and protein were assessed by semi-quantitive RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry methods respectively in 50 cases of endometrial carcinomas, 15 cases of hyperplasia endometria and 12 cases of normal endometrial tissue. Expressions of bFGF protein were detected by immunohistochemistry. Microvessels were highlighted by staining endothelial cells with CD(34) antigen, and MVDs were counted.

RESULTS

The expression rate and average quantity of PTTG mRNA were detected in a significantly greater proportion endometrial carcinomas (96%, 0.84 +/- 0.08) than in hyperplasia endometria (60%, 0.78 +/- 0.06) and normal endometrial tissue (33%, 0.48 +/- 0.12, P < 0.01, respectively). The expression of PTTG protein in endometrial carcinomas (70%) was significantly higher than in hyperplasia endometria (40%) and normal endometrial tissue (17%, P < 0.01). The expression of PTTG was related to surgical-pathological stage, myometrial infiltration depth, lymphatic metastasis and pathological subtype (P < 0.05, respectively), but was irrelevant to patients' age and pathological grade (P > 0.05, respectively). The average quantity of PTTG mRNA and expression rate of PTTG protein in tissues with bFGF protein coexpression (0.86 +/- 0.07, 87%) were higher than in those without bFGF protein coexpression (0.80 +/- 0.06, 42%, P < 0.01, respectively). The MVD in tissues with PTTG protein expression (62 +/- 18) was higher than in those without PTTG protein expression (51 +/- 12, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

PTTG may play an important role in carcinogenesis and development of endometrial carcinoma. PTTG induces an angiogenesis through bFGF which is a key determinant step in tumor progression and metastatic spread.

Engineered FGF-2 Expression Induces Glandular Epithelial Hyperplasia in the Murine Prostatic Dorsal Lobe

OBJECTIVE

It is known that androgens and stromal-epithelial interactions are required for the formation and growth of the prostate. FGF-2 is overexpressed in prostatic stromal cells in benign prostatic hypertrophy (BPH)/prostate cancer. This supports the paracrine/autocrine growth of prostatic epithelial/stromal cells in the pathogenesis of BPH and invasive prostate cancer.

METHODS

We established transgenic mice expressing FGF-2 under the control of a short rat probasin promotor. FGF-2 transgenic founder mice expressing FGF-2 in the prostate were infertile. Thus, male founder mice were sacrificed for histological analysis.

RESULTS

FGF-2 was expressed in epithelial cells in glands of the dorsal, lateral, and ventral prostatic lobes of two FGF-2 transgenic founder mice, but not in the anterior lobe of transgenic mice or in any lobe of non-transgenic control littermates. Acinar epithelial glands in dorsal prostatic lobes of FGF-2 transgenic mice expressing FGF-2 were more dense and showed simple papillary hyperplasia of epithelial cells compared with those of control littermate mice. Glandular and luminal enlargement without epithelial growth was observed in the ventral lobe of FGF-2 transgenic mice compared with the controls.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, FGF-2 transgenic mice under the control of rat probasin promoter showed simple epithelial hyperplasia in glands of the prostatic dorsal lobe and glandular enlargement without epithelial growth in the prostatic ventral lobe.

In vivo electroporation enhances plasmid-based gene transfer of basic fibroblast growth factor for the treatment of ischemic limb

BACKGROUND

Angiogenic therapy for ischemic tissues using angiogenic growth factors has been reported on an experimental and a clinical level. Electroporation enhances the efficiency of plasmid-based gene transfer in a variety of tissues. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the angiogenic effects of plasmid-based gene transfer using basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in combination with electroporation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The transfection efficiency of in vivo electroporation in rabbit skeletal muscles was evaluated using pCAccluc+ encoding luciferase. To evaluate the angiogenic effects of bFGF gene in ischemic limb, we constructed a plasmid, pCAcchbFGFcs23, containing human bFGF cDNA fused with the secretory signal sequence of interleukin (IL)-2. Then, 500 microg of pCAcchbFGFcs23 or pCAZ3 (control plasmid) was injected into the ischemic thigh muscles in a rabbit model of hind limb ischemia with in vivo electroporation (bFGF-E(+) group and LacZ-E(+) group). Other sets of animals were injected with pCAcchbFGFcs23 (bFGF-E(-) group) or pCAZ3 (LacZ-E(-) group) without electroporation. Then 28 days later, calf blood pressure ratio, angiographic score, in vivo blood flow, and capillary density in the ischemic limb were measured.

RESULTS

Gene transfer efficiency increased markedly with the increase in voltage up to 100 V. Regarding angiogenic responses, calf blood pressure ratio, in vivo blood flow, and capillary density only in the bFGF-E(+) group were significantly higher than those in LacZ-E(-) group. Angiographic scores in the bFGF-E(+) and bFGF-E(-) groups were significantly higher than that in the LacZ-E(-) group.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that in vivo electroporation enhances bFGF gene transfer for the treatment of ischemic limb muscles.

In vivo study of angiogenic plasmid preparations--the bicistronic plasmid as a new type of drug for vascular diseases

Angiogenic gene therapy is thought to be a new method for the treatment for vascular diseases. Plasmid preparations encoding angiogenic factors like a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) or a fibroblast growth factor (FGF) effectively stimulate the formation of new vessels. The first clinical trials with novel angiogenic drugs--genetic preparations have already been reported. Nevertheless, gene transfer and expression efficiency still require a lot of experimental work. Here, three different angiogenic preparations were studied. We used monocistronic vectors encoding VEGF165 or FGF-2 and bicistronic construct expressing both of them. The angiogenic potency of the plasmids was evaluated by in vivo angiogenesis tests. We also tested the plasmid DNA maintenance in mouse tissue as well as the transcriptional activity of the angiogenic preparations. We saw that all plasmids effectively stimulate the formation of new vessels in in vivo conditions up to 20 days. The most powerfull angiogenic potency was demonstrated by the bicistronic vector. It was shown that after 3, 13, 21, 31 and 41 days post-transfection the plasmid DNA still persisted in tissue, more or less on the same level but the mRNA transcripts after 13 days slowly decreased. This work confirmed effectiveness of gene therapy, and gave new information about angiogenic plasmid preparations useful for practical applications.

Electromagnetic fields increase in vitro and in vivo angiogenesis through endothelial release of FGF-2

Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) have been shown to be clinically beneficial, but their mechanism of action remains unclear. The present study examined the impact of PEMF on angiogenesis, a process critical for successful healing of various tissues. PEMF increased the degree of endothelial cell tubulization (sevenfold) and proliferation (threefold) in vitro. Media from PEMF cultures had a similar stimulatory effect, but heat denaturation ablated this activity. In addition, conditioned media was able to induce proliferative and chemotactic changes in both human umbilical vein endothelial cells and fibroblasts, but had no effect on osteoblasts. Angiogenic protein screening demonstrated a fivefold increase in fibroblast growth factor beta-2 (FGF-2), as well as smaller increases in other angiogenic growth factors (angiopoietin-2, thrombopoietin, and epidermal growth factor). Northern blot analysis demonstrated an increase in FGF-2 transcription, and FGF-2 neutralizing antibody inhibited the effects of PEMF. In vivo, PEMF exposure increased angiogenesis more than twofold. We conclude that PEMF augments angiogenesis primarily by stimulating endothelial release of FGF-2, inducing paracrine and autocrine changes in the surrounding tissue. These findings suggest a potential role for PEMF in therapeutic angiogenesis.

The Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV/HHV-8) K1 protein induces expression of angiogenic and invasion factors

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV/HHV-8) has been linked to Kaposi's sarcoma, primary effusion lymphoma, and multicentric Castleman's disease. In addition to endothelial cells and B lymphocytes, KSHV also has been shown to infect epithelial cells and keratinocytes. The transmembrane glycoprotein K1, encoded by the first open reading frame of KSHV, is a signaling protein capable of eliciting B-cell activation. We show that KSHV K1 can induce expression and secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in epithelial and endothelial cells. Up-regulation of VEGF was mediated at the transcriptional level because expression of K1 resulted in VEGF promoter activation. We also show that K1 induces expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in endothelial cells. Additional analyses with K1 mutant proteins revealed that the SH2 binding motifs present in the K1 cytoplasmic tail are necessary for VEGF secretion and MMP-9 induction. These results indicate that K1 signaling may contribute to KSHV-associated pathogenesis through a paracrine mechanism by promoting the secretion of VEGF and MMP-9 into the surrounding matrix.

[Study on the expression of eIF families after elemene treatment]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the activity of Caspase-3 and the expression of eukaryotic initiation factor families, bFGF and VEGF after elemene on laryngeal carcinoma HEp-2 cells.

METHOD

The HEp-2 cells after elemene treatment were analyzed utilizing Westernblot and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The activity of Caspase-3 was assessed by colorimetric assay.

RESULT

The activity of Caspase-3 was enhanced after elemene treatment. The protein expression of eIF4E, eIF4G, bFGF and VEGF were significantly inhibited by elemene; and the mRNA expression of bFGF and VEGF were inhibited either.

CONCLUSION

Elemene can effectively inhibit the growth of HEp-2 cells and result in the alteration of activity of Caspase-3. There were significant correlations between the decreased expression of protein eIF4E, eIF4G, bFGF and VEGF. The mechanism of eIF4E and eIF4G decrease the expression of bFGF and VEGF is post-transcriptional.

Electronegative low-density lipoprotein

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The occurrence in blood of an electronegatively charged LDL was described in 1988. During the 1990s reports studying electronegative LDL (LDL(-)) were scant and its atherogenic role controversial. Nevertheless, recent reports have provided new evidence on a putative atherogenic role of LDL(-). This review focuses on and discusses these new findings.

RECENT FINDINGS

In recent years, LDL(-) has been found to be involved in several atherogenic features through its action on cultured endothelial cells. LDL(-) induces the production of chemokines, such as IL-8 and monocyte chemotactic protein 1, and increases tumor necrosis factor-alpha-induced production of vascular cell adhesion molecule 1, with these molecules being involved in early phases of leukocyte recruitment. LDL(-) from familial hypercholesterolemic patients also decreases DNA synthesis and intracellular fibroblast growth factor 2 production, which may contribute to impaired angiogenesis and increased apoptosis. In addition, the preferential association of platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase with LDL(-) has been reported, suggesting a proinflammatory role of this enzyme in LDL(-).

SUMMARY

Recent findings suggest that LDL(-) could contribute to atherogenesis via several mechanisms, including proinflammatory, proapoptotic and anti-angiogenesis properties. Further studies are required to define the role of LDL(-) in atherogenesis more precisely and to clarify mechanisms involved in endothelial cell activation.

Basic fibroblast growth factor gene transfection to enhance the repair of avascular necrosis of the femoral head

OBJECTIVE

To explore a new method for the therapy of avascular necrosis of the femoral head.

METHOD

The recombinant plasmid pCD-rbFGF was mixed with collagen and was implanted in the necrotic femoral head. Expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) was examined by RT-PCR and immunohistochemical method. Repair of the femoral head was observed by histological and histomorphometric analysis.

RESULT

Expression of bFGF was detected in the femoral head transfected with bFGF gene, indicating significant increase of angiogenesis 2 weeks after gene transfection and increased new bone formation 8 weeks after gene transfection on histomorphometric analysis (P< 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Transfection of bFGF gene enhances bone tissue angiogenesis. Repair in osteonecrosis would be accelerated accordingly.