The Fas/Fas-ligand system is not required for bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice

Recent studies suggest that Fas-Fas-ligand (FasL) interactions play an important role in the development of lung injury and fibrosis. However, evidence to support this concept is still indirect. To determine whether Fas-FasL interaction is required for the development of bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice, we used Fas-deficient (lpr) and FasL-deficient (gld ) mice as animal models. After intratracheal instillation of bleomycin, we examined the lungs of mice through bronchoalveolar lavage, histologic studies, DNA nick-end labeling, and hydroxyproline assay. The development of cellular infiltrates, bronchiolar and alveolar epithelial apoptosis, and fibrosis following bleomycin instillation in the lungs in lpr mice and gld mice was similar to their development in wild-type mice. The results of this study show that bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis does not require Fas-FasL interaction, and that epithelial cell apoptosis after bleomycin exposure is mediated by Fas-independent pathways.

Ginsenoside-induced relaxation of human bronchial smooth muscle via release of nitric oxide

Ginsenoside, an extract of Panax ginseng, is an essential constituent of anti-asthmatic Chinese herbal medicine. To elucidate whether ginsenoside affects airway smooth muscle tone and, if so, what the mechanism of action is, we studied relaxant responses of human bronchial strips under isometric condition in vitro, and directly measured the release of nitric oxide (NO) by an amperometric sensor for this molecule. Addition of ginsenoside relaxed the tissues precontracted with acetylcholine in a dose-dependent manner, the maximal relaxation and the ginsenoside concentration required to produce 50% relaxation being 67+/-8% and 210+/-29 microg ml(-1), respectively. The relaxant responses to ginsenoside were inhibited by N(G)-nitro-L-arginine methylester (L-NAME) and removal of the epithelium, but not by N(G)-nitro-D-arginine methylester (D-NAME) or tetrodotoxin. This inhibitory effect of L-NAME was reversed by L-arginine but not by D-arginine. Addition of ginsenoside to the medium containing bronchial tissues dose-dependently increased NO-selective electrical current, and this effect was greatly attenuated by the epithelial removal or Ca(2+)-free medium. Ginsenoside also increased tissue cyclic GMP contents, an effect that was abolished in the presence of L-NAME. It is concluded that ginsenoside induces relaxation of human bronchial smooth muscle via stimulation of NO generation predominantly from airway epithelium and cyclic GMP synthesis. This action might account for the anti-asthmatic effect of Panax ginseng.

[Role of nitric oxide in airway mucociliary dysfunction in diffuse panbronchiolitis]

Nitric oxide (NO) stimulates the ciliary motility of the airway epithelium, thereby assisting in the regulation of mucociliary transport in the respiratory tract. In the present study, to elucidate a possible involvement of NO in mucociliary disturbance in diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB), we measured nasal clearance time (NCT) using the saccharin test, NO concentration in the exhaled air with a chemiluminescence analyzer, and electrolyte concentration in the sputum. Compared with healthy nonsmokers and smokers, patients with DPB showed a lower NO concentration in the exhaled air (p < 0.05), prolonged NCT (p < 0.01), and a higher Cl concentration in the sputum (p < 0.05). Among these variables, exhaled NO concentration was negatively correlated with NCT (p < 0.01) and sputum Cl concentration (p < 0.05). These results suggest that the inhibition of NO generation associated with an elevated Cl concentration in the airway surface liquid may contribute to airway mucociliary dysfunction in DPB.

Angio-oedema in a neonate with IgG antibodies to parvovirus B19 following intrauterine parvovirus B19 infection

We report a neonate with angio-oedema following fetal hydrops caused by maternal parvovirus B19 infection. Levels of complement components, including total haemolytic complement activity and C1 inhibitor concentration, were within normal ranges in cord blood. Neonatal angio-oedema might be included in the clinical spectrum of parvovirus B19 infection in pregnancy.

Effect of suplatast tosilate, a Th2 cytokine inhibitor, on steroid-dependent asthma: a double-blind randomised study. Tokyo Joshi-Idai Asthma Research Group

BACKGROUND

Th2 cytokines play an important part in the pathogenesis of asthma. Our aim was to study the effect of suplatast tosilate, a selective Th2 cytokine inhibitor, on asthma control and asthma exacerbations during reduction of inhaled corticosteroid dose in patients with steroid-dependent asthma.

METHODS

85 patients with moderate to severe asthma taking high doses (> or = 1500 microg per day) of inhaled beclometasone dipropionate, were assigned suplatast tosilate (100 mg three times daily) or placebo for 8 weeks in a double-blind, randomised, parallel-group, multicentre trial. During the first 4 weeks, other medications remained unchanged (add-on phase); during the next 4 weeks, the doses of beclometasone were halved (steroid-reduction phase). Main outcome measures were pulmonary function, asthma symptoms, and use of beta2-agonists.

FINDINGS

Data were available from 77 patients. During the add-on phase, suplatast tosilate treatment, compared with placebo, was associated with higher forced expiratory volume in 1 s (mean difference between groups for changes from baseline at week 4, 0.20 L [95% CI 0.16-0.24], p=0.043), morning peak expiratory flow (18.6 L/min [14.1-23.1], p=0.037), and less diurnal variation in peak expiratory flow rate, asthma symptom scores (7.1 [6.6-7.6], p=0.029), and serum concentrations of eosinophil cationic protein and IgE. In the steroid-reduction phase, pulmonary function, asthma symptoms, and use of beta2-agonist deteriorated significantly more in the placebo group than in the suplatast group.

INTERPRETATION

Treatment with a Th2 cytokine inhibitor in steroid-dependent asthma improves pulmonary function and symptom control, and allows a decrease in dose of inhaled corticosteroid without significant side-effects. Some improvements in pharmacokinetics are, however, needed.

A Japanese propositus with D-- phenotype characterized by the deletion of both the RHCE gene and D1S80 locus situated in chromosome 1p and the existence of a new CE-D-CE hybrid gene

In a family study of a Japanese propositus with the D-- phenotype, the serological data of her D-- phenotype and those of her parents were discrepant. Gene analysis of the propositus showed a gross deletion of the RHCE gene and a new rearrangement of RHCE to yield the CE-D-CE hybrid. It was demonstrated that the hybrid CE-D-CE gene consisted of exon 1 from the RHCE gene, followed by exons 3 to 7 from the RHD gene and exons 8 to 10 from the RHCE gene. However, whether or not exon 2 of the RHD or the RHCE gene was contained in the CE-D-CE gene remained unclear. Moreover, spacer analysis between both RH genes and the family study suggested that the D-- gene complex from the paternal and maternal sides consisted of only the CE-D-CE hybrid gene and a single RHD gene, respectively. For the purpose of confirming the parent-child relationship, a paternity test using DNA fingerprint and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis at the D1S80 locus were performed. DNA fingerprints with two kinds of DNA minisatellite probes (33.15 and 33.6) confirmed that the parent-child relationship in the D-- propositus was compatible. However, in the present case, at the D1S80 locus, the PCR product derived from the mother was lacking, thereby negating a parent-child relationship. It is probable that the RH genes and D1S80 locus exist in close proximity, because they are situated in chromosomes 1p 34.3-36.1 and 1p 36.1-36.3, respectively. These data suggested that at the stage of gametogenesis, both the RHCE gene and the D1S80 locus from the maternal side may have been deleted, thereby producing the D-- gene complex.

Effects of reactive oxygen species on intracellular calcium in bovine tracheal epithelium: modulation by nitric oxide

We studied the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) on intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) and their possible modulation by nitric oxide (NO) in fura-2-loaded cultured bovine tracheal epithelium. Hypoxanthine (HX) and xanthine oxidase (XO), which generate superoxide anion (O2-) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), dose dependently increased [Ca2+]i. The increase in [Ca2+]i was reduced in the presence of superoxide dismutase (SOD, 200 U/mL) and catalase (200 U/mL) by 29% and 43%, respectively. The iron chelator o-phenanthroline and the hydroxyl radical (.OH) scavenger dimethylthiourea (DMTU) more potently inhibited the response of [Ca2+]i. H2O2-derived .OH generated by the Fenton reaction caused a marked [Ca2+]i elevation, but exogenous H2O2 did not. Sodium nitroprusside (100 microM), an NO donor, potentiated HX-XO-induced [Ca2+]i rise by 50%, an effect that was abolished in the presence of SOD or DMTU. These results suggest that .OH formed by interaction of O2- and H2O2 in the presence of iron may play a major role in the HX-XO-induced disruption of airway epithelial Ca2+ homeostasis, and that NO potentiates ROS-induced [Ca2+]i response, presumably by reacting with O2- and producing .OH.

Effect of a thromboxane A(2) antagonist on sputum production and its physicochemical properties in patients with mild to moderate asthma

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of a specific thromboxane A(2) (TxA(2)) receptor antagonist, seratrodast, on asthma control and airway secretions.

DESIGN

Multicenter, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study.

PATIENTS

Forty-five patients with mild to moderate asthma who had been continuously expectorating sputum of > 20 g/d. Patients with a current pulmonary infection or taking oral corticosteroids, antibiotics, or mucolytic agents were excluded from the trial.

INTERVENTIONS

Following a 2-week run-in period, while pulmonary function, sputum production, and mucociliary function were assessed, patients were assigned to receive seratrodast, 40 mg/d, or placebo for 6 weeks.

MEASUREMENTS AND RESULTS

During the treatment period, the changes in FEV(1) and peak expiratory flow (PEF) were not different between the two patient groups, but there were significant reductions in diurnal variation of PEF (p = 0.034), frequency of daytime asthma symptoms (p = 0.030), and daytime supplemental use of beta(2)-agonist (p = 0.032) in the seratrodast group. For sputum analysis, seratrodast treatment decreased the amount of sputum (p = 0.005), dynamic viscosity (p = 0. 007), and albumin concentration (p = 0.028), whereas it had no effect on elastic modulus or fucose concentration. Nasal clearance time of a saccharin particle was shortened in the seratrodast group at week 4 (p = 0.031) and week 6 (p = 0.025), compared with the placebo group.

CONCLUSION

Blockade of TxA(2) receptor has minimal effects on pulmonary function, but may cause an improvement in mucociliary clearance by decreasing the viscosity of airway secretions.

Adenosine A3 receptor-mediated airway microvascular leakage: role of mast cells and tachykinins

To determine whether adenosine A3 receptor stimulation produces airway inflammation and, if so, what the mechanism of action is, we studied microvascular permeability in the rat trachea. After intravenous injection of Evans blue dye, adenosine and various adenosine analogues were given by inhalation, and the tracheal microvascular permeability was determined by a photometric measurement of extravasated dye. N6-2-(4-aminophenyl)-ethyladenosine (APNEA), an adenosine A3 receptor agonist, dose dependently increased plasma protein extravasation, whereas adenosine, the A1-receptor agonist N6-(R-phenylisopropyl)-adenosine, or the A2-receptor agonist 5'-N-ethyl-carboxamidoadenosine had no effect. The effect of APNEA was not altered by the adenosine A1/A2 receptor antagonist 8-(p-sulphophenyl)-theophylline, but was reduced by depletion of mast cell-derived mediators with compound 48/80 or pretreatment with the tachykinin NK1 receptor antagonist CP99,994. These results suggest that activation of A3 receptor specifically increase airway microvascular permeability probably via mast cell-derived mediators and tachykinins.

Induction of experimental periodontitis in mice with Porphyromonas gingivalis-adhered ligatures

BACKGROUND

Little information is available on the colonization of periodontopathic bacteria and alveolar bone loss in a mouse system, because of the difficulty in establishing bacteria in the oral cavity. The aim of this study was to establish experimental periodontitis in mice by applying a Porphyromonas gingivalis-adhered ligature onto the molars.

METHODS

Specific pathogen-free C3H/HeN mice were divided into 3 groups: 80 infected, 80 sham-infected, and 48 non-treated control mice. Sterile silk ligatures were preincubated with and without P. gingivalis 381 in vitro and then physically tied on the right maxillary first molar of infected and sham-infected mice, respectively. Ten mice from the infected and sham-infected groups and 6 from the control group were sacrificed at 2-week intervals for up to 15 weeks after infection.

RESULTS

Plaque samples were collected at the time of sacrifice and alveolar bone loss was examined. The results indicated that P. gingivalis was recovered from the plaque samples in 95% of the infected mice after 1 week and then gradually dropped to 58% after 15 weeks of infection, whereas P. gingivalis was not isolated in either sham-infected or control mice throughout the experimental period. The infected mice showed significant P. gingivalis-induced bone loss at the sites where the ligature was tied weeks 13 to 15. A linear regression analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the number of P. gingivalis recovered and alveolar bone loss at 15 weeks after infection (P <0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of a P. gingivalis-adhered ligature supported a long-lasting infection of P. gingivalis in mice, resulting in P. gingivalis-induced alveolar bone breakdown.

Selective removal of cholesterol esters in an arteriosclerotic region of blood vessels with a free-electron laser

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

In advanced atheromatous atherosclerosis, a large amount of lipids, particularly cholesterol esters, accumulates on the arterial wall. The selective removal of cholesterol esters accumulated in the intracellular or extracellular spaces has clinical significance. In the present work, the authors investigated the removal of cholesterol esters by using a free-electron laser (FEL) in an arteriosclerotic region.

STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thin films of cholesteryl oleate and albumin and the cross section of a rabbit artery were placed on an inverted microscope stage, and the changes caused by the FEL irradiation of 5.75 microm and 6.1 microm, with 1.5-3 mW on average, were monitored continuously by using a CCD camera in real time.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

FEL irradiation at a wavelength of 5.75 microm, which is a stretching vibrational mode of the ester, was able to ablate cholesterol esters without affecting albumin. It can also remove cholesterol esters from rabbit arteriosclerotic arterial walls.

Morphological changes in rat lung after long-term exposure to diesel emissions

Wistar rats were exposed for 24 mo to diesel emissions containing a low (0.2 ppm, 0.21 mg/m(3)), medium (1.04 ppm, 1.18 mg/m(3)), or high (2.96 ppm, 3.05 mg/m(3)) concentration of NO(2) and particles, or diesel emissions containing a medium (1.12 ppm, 0.01 mg/m(3)) concentration of NO(2) without particles. At 6-mo intervals during the exposure period, rats were autopsied, and their lungs were prepared for light- and electron-microscopic examination. Morphological evaluations included examination for hyperplasia of airway goblet cells, shift in the types of glycoprotein of intracellular mucus granules in goblet cells, infiltration of inflammatory cells in the airways, enlargement of the cross-sectional area of an alveolus as a parameter of air space enlargement, and development of alveolar holes, which is considered to be an early hallmark of alveolar destruction. The number of goblet cells with acid-form mucus granules increased with the exposure concentration and time; however, goblet cells did not show any hyperplastic changes. Furthermore, inflammatory cells such as alveolar macrophages, mast cells, plasma cells, neutrophils, and lymphocytes infiltrated the airways and the alveoli, and showed some cell-to-cell contact. Although no significant enlargement of the air space of the lungs was seen in any exposure group, the number of alveolar holes was significantly higher in the high-concentration group in comparison with the control group at each exposure time, and also increased in other exposure groups, even in the low-concentration group at certain exposure times. Morphological changes in the lungs were mild even in the animals exposed to the highest levels of diesel emissions for 24 mo. Elimination of particles from diesel emissions led to reduced morphological changes such as a decreased shift in the types of glycoprotein of mucus granules in goblet cells, decreased infiltration of inflammatory cells in the lungs, and reduced anthracosis.

Effect of inhaled indomethacin in asthmatic patients taking high doses of inhaled corticosteroids

BACKGROUND

Cyclooxygenase products of arachidonic acid may play a part in bronchoconstriction and airway inflammation in asthma.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to determine the effect of inhaled indomethacin on asthma control and asthma exacerbations during reduction of inhaled corticosteroids in patients with moderate-to-severe steroid-dependent asthma.

METHODS

We conducted a double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, multicenter study in 38 patients with asthma taking high doses (> or =1500 microg/d) of beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP). After a run-in period, patients were assigned inhaled indomethacin (50 mg/d) or placebo for 6 weeks, during which the daily doses of BDP were reduced to half at week 2 and then to one third of the baseline dose at week 4.

RESULTS

Data were available from 34 patients. After the reduction of BDP doses, FEV(1), peak expiratory flow, asthma symptoms, and exhaled nitric oxide concentrations deteriorated in both treatment groups, but these effects were less pronounced in the indomethacin group compared with the placebo group. During the 6-week treatment period, 89% of the patients receiving placebo had relapse of asthma, whereas only 38% of those receiving inhaled indomethacin did so (P =.003).

CONCLUSION

Inhalation of indomethacin can reduce asthma exacerbations induced by reduction of high-dose inhaled corticosteroid in steroid-dependent asthma.

CT features of pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection: effects of underlying pulmonary disease

The CT findings of 50 cases of pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection (NMI) were evaluated by dividing patients into two clinical groups: group 1, with no history of pulmonary disease (n=34), and group 2, with underlying pulmonary disease (n=16), and observing serial CT images. Bronchiectasis, irregular opacity, and small nodule were common findings and were concomitantly seen in 80% of cases in both groups. In group 1, small nodule, peripheral bronchiectasis, and irregular opacity with bronchiectasis in the middle lobes were common findings. On the other hand, irregular opacity with cavity in the upper lobes was a common CT finding in group 2. Irregular opacity was a more frequent finding of NMI than previously reported and might be seen as the sole manifestation of NMI, especially in group 2 patients. Serial CT studies showed frequent changes in small nodule and irregular opacity. Irregular opacity with cavity tended to progress, whereas irregular opacity without bronchiectasis or cavity may or may not improve.

[A case of congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation of the lung in a 4-year-old child]

A case of congenital cystic adenomatoid malformation (CCAM) of the lung is reported. A 3-year-old boy was admitted for elevation of infiltrative shadow in the right lower lung field on a chest X-ray. The clinical diagnosis was emphysematous bullae with inflammation. After 6 months, he had recurrent infected bullae, and was admitted. He received chemotherapy with antibiotics prior to the operation. Right lower lobectomy was performed on February 2, 1998. The resected lung was composed of multiple cysts with thin wall measuring 10-60 mm in diameter. The histological examination of specimen revealed CCAM (Stocker type I), which is rare in this age. The patient has been well for 16 months postoperatively.

Macrolide antibiotics inhibit nitric oxide generation by rat pulmonary alveolar macrophages

There is evidence that macrolide antibiotics are effective in the treatment of chronic airway inflammatory diseases, probably through actions other than their antibacterial properties. In order to determine whether macrolides affect the nitric oxide-generating system in the respiratory tract, rat pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAMs) were studied in vitro. The release of NO was assessed by direct measurement with a specific amperometric sensor for this molecule, and the expression of type II NO synthase (NOS) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) was determined by Northern blotting. Incubation of PAMs with lipopolysaccharide from Escherichia coli and recombinant human interferon-gamma caused release of NO, which was accompanied by induction of type II NOS mRNA. The release of NO was reduced by coincubation of cells with the macrolides erythromycin, clarithromycin and josamycin in a concentration-dependent manner, the maximal inhibition being 73+/-10, 81+/-6 and 84+/-9%, respectively, but was not altered by amoxycillin or cefaclor. These macrolides likewise inhibited the induction of type II NOS mRNA, whereas no inhibitory effects were observed with amoxycillin or cefaclor. These results suggest that macrolide antibiotics specifically inhibit type II NO synthase gene expression and consequently reduce NO production by rat pulmonary alveolar macrophages, which might result in attenuation of airway inflammation.

[Relationship between p 53 gene mutation and MDR 1 gene expression in surgically resected non-small cell lung cancer]

The resistance of tumor cells to chemotherapeutic drugs is a major obstacle to successful cancer chemotherapy. Expression of the MDR 1 gene, which encodes for a transmembrane efflux pump (P-glycoprotein), leads to decreased intracellular accumulation and resistance to a variety of anticancer drugs. Recently, one mutant p 53 form was shown to stimulate the MDR 1 gene promoter in vitro, whereas wild-type p 53 repressed this activity. We examined the relationship between p 53 gene mutation and MDR 1 gene expression in specimens from non-small cell lung cancer patients. Tumor samples were obtained from 21 patients during surgery. Mutations of exon 5 through exon 8 of the p 53 gene were detected by the polymerase chain reaction single strand conformation polymorphism method. MDR 1 expression was semi-quantified by the reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction method. We identified p 53 gene mutation in samples from 7 patients. MDR 1 gene expression was observed in samples from 20 patients. The expressivity of the MDR 1 gene tended to be higher in patients with adenocarcinoma. No significant relationship between p 53 mutation and MDR 1 expressivity was observed in our study.

Traumatic rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm associated with the use of a seatbelt

Injury to the abdominal aorta after blunt trauma continues to be a relatively infrequent occurrence. In this report, we describe a case of traumatic rupture of an abdominal aortic aneurysm associated with inappropriate seatbelt use.

Merits of soft nitriding scalers

BACKGROUND

It has been demonstrated that nitriding modifies the physical characteristics of metals. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the changes induced by 3 levels of inexpensive soft nitriding treatments on commercial sickle scalers.

METHODS

Taglite scalers (NT) were soft nitrided for 30 (SN30), 60 (SN60), or 90 (SN90) minutes. The cumulated scaled material was weighed every 10 strokes x 10 and thereafter every 1,000 to 8,000 strokes by an automatic scaling apparatus against epoxy resin. Weight differences were used to indicate abrasion resistance; the relative efficiency (RE) was calculated as the ratio of scaled amount at a given number of strokes (SN/NT). The hardness and the tensile strengths were determined for each soft nitriding treatment level. The nitrided layer thickness of representative SN scalers was observed by electron probe x-ray microanalysis.

RESULTS

The SN60 was not significantly different from SN30 or SN90, but the SN90 was more efficient than SN30 for the first 100 strokes (P<0.01). The RE of all SN scalers was significantly greater (2.3 to 2.7 times) than the NT scalers from the beginning of the study and throughout all time periods (SN90 > SN60 > SN30); it increased further during the first 100 strokes (9.7 to 15.5 times), indicating the NT scalers wore out faster than SN scalers. The untreated scalers' performance decreased to 10% of baseline after 100 strokes; but even after 1,000 strokes, the SN60 and SN90 performed better than new untreated scalers. Thereafter, all scalers' performance, including SN scalers, decreased. While the NT blades ceased to cut measurable amounts after 7,000 to 8,000 strokes, all SN scalers continued to cut. Although SN90 scalers had the thickest soft layer and were the hardest (P<0.01), the SN60 had the highest tensile strength (P <0.01), suggesting that it might be the safest in practice.

CONCLUSIONS

Sixty minutes of soft nitriding treatment of commercially available taglite scalers seem to be the optimal treatment duration to increase their durability, on the order of 100 to 1,000 times, without jeopardizing safety for clinical use.

Effect of cromolyn on adenosine-induced airway microvascular leakage in sensitized rats

Inhalation of adenosine causes bronchoconstriction in asthmatic subjects, but the effect of this purine nucleotide on airway vascular permeability is unknown. In order to determine whether adenosine produces airway microvascular leakage and, if so, to examine the effect of cromolyn (sodium cromoglycate (SCG)) on this extravasation of Evans blue was measured in the airways of ovalbumin-sensitized Brown Norway rats. Inhaled adenosine caused microvascular leakage in sensitized but not in non-sensitized rats, and the response was abolished by capsaicin pretreatment or the tachykinin neurokinin-1 receptor antagonist FK888. Adenosine-induced vascular leakage became apparent in nonsensitized rats when treated with phosphoramidon, and airway neutral endopeptidase activity was lower in sensitized than in non-sensitized animals. The extravasation induced by adenosine in sensitized rats was dose dependently inhibited by SCG aerosols, SCG likewise inhibited microvascular responses to substance P, but had no effect on those to platelet-activating factor. These results suggest that: 1) adenosine induces airway microvascular leakage in sensitized rats through stimulation of neurokinin-1 receptors; 2) this effect is associated with a sensitization-induced decrease in neutral endopeptidase activity; and 3) sodium cromoglycate inhibits adenosine-induced extravasation, presumably via functional antagonism of tachykinins.

[Apoptosis in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]

Apoptosis is a critical mechanism controlling cellularity in various tissues. It is so far unknown whether apoptosis plays a critical role in the pathogenesis and development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, recent evidence suggests that apoptosis may occur in vascular endothelial cells and/or alveolar epithelial cells in COPD lungs, thereby potentially contributing to lung tissue destruction seen in COPD. Apoptosis may also influence cellular infiltrates into the lung, another pathologic feature of COPD, because the survival of inflammatory cells such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages are critically determined by the mechanism of apoptosis.

An unusual case of fatal gas embolism

We describe an unusual case of fatal gas embolism, in which a man died by connecting an extension tube supplying oxygen to an indwelling catheter that was inserted into the left cephalic vein.

Macrolide antibiotics protect against immune complex-induced lung injury in rats: role of nitric oxide from alveolar macrophages

Macrolide antibiotics have unique immunomodulatory actions apart from antimicrobial properties. We studied the effects of macrolides on IgG immune complex (IgG-ICx)-induced lung injury in rats in vivo and in vitro. Intrapulmonary deposition of IgG-ICx produced a time-dependent increase in the concentration of NO in exhaled air. There were corresponding increases in the number of neutrophils accumulated into alveolar spaces, and lung wet-to-dry weight ratio. All of these changes were inhibited by pretreatment with erythromycin or josamycin, but not by amoxicillin or cephaclor. Incubation of cultured pulmonary alveolar macrophages caused up-regulation of NO production and expression of inducible NO synthase mRNA, an effect that was dose dependently inhibited by erythromycin, roxithromycin, or josamycin. The macrolides also reduced IgG-ICx-induced release of IL-1beta and TNF-alpha, but did not alter the release of NO induced by exogenously added IL-1beta and TNF-alpha. These results suggest that macrolide antibiotics specifically inhibit immune complex-induced lung injury presumably by inhibiting cytokine release and the resultant down-regulation of inducible NO synthase gene expression and NO production by rat pulmonary alveolar macrophages.

Atypical adrenoceptor-mediated relaxation of canine pulmonary artery through a cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent pathway

To determine whether functional atypical beta-adrenoceptors (beta(3)-adrenoceptors) are present in pulmonary vascular smooth muscle, we studied isolated canine pulmonary arterial rings under isometric conditions in vitro. Addition of beta-adrenoceptor agonists produced a concentration-dependent relaxation of noradrenaline-precontracted tissues, a rank order potency being isoproterenol (1) > salbutamol (0.95) > selective beta(3)-adrenoceptor agonists, CL 316243 (0.85), and BRL 37344 (0. 83). A marked desensitization to salbutamol occurred by pretreatment with salbutamol but not with CL 316243. When beta(1)-adrenoceptors had been blocked, the relaxant responses to salbutamol were competitively antagonized by the beta(2)-adrenoceptor antagonist ICI 118551 with a pA(2) value of 7.67 +/- 0.21 (mean +/- S.E.), but the response to CL 316243 was weekly antagonized by ICI 118551 only at a high concentration of 10(-5) M, where an apparent pA(2) value was 5. 24. In contrast, cyanopindolol, a nonselective beta-adrenoceptor antagonist, antagonized CL 316243-induced relaxation in a competitive manner with a pA(2) of 6.10 +/- 0.11. This pA(2) value was lower than that when salbutamol was used as an agonist (6.69 +/- 0.14, p < 0.01). Intracellular 3',5'-cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) levels were increased by CL 316243 in a concentration-dependent fashion, an effect that was not altered by ICI 118551. These results suggest that beta(3)-adrenoceptors may exist in canine pulmonary artery smooth muscle and that stimulation of this atypical receptor causes vasodilation through a cAMP-dependent pathway.

H2O2 induces apoptosis in bovine tracheal epithelial cells in vitro

Oxidants play an important role in the pathogenesis of various airway diseases. Oxidants have been shown to induce two distinct types of cell death, i.e., apoptosis and necrosis. However, whether oxidants induce apoptosis in airway epithelial cells remains unclear. To address this question, we evaluated the effect of H2O2 exposure on bovine tracheal epithelial cells cultured under different conditions. When tracheal epithelial cells were isolated and exposed to H2O2 in suspension cultures, they underwent apoptosis as demonstrated by characteristic ultrastructural changes and DNA fragmentation. Interestingly, apoptosis occurred in single cells but not in aggregated cells. In addition, apoptosis was seen in many ciliated and in fewer mucous cells. When tracheal epithelial cells were allowed to attach to the substrate and grow, they became resistant to apoptosis induced by H2O2. These results suggest that H2O2 can induce apoptosis in airway epithelial cells.

Thiol depletion induces apoptosis in cultured lung fibroblasts

Thiol antioxidants are implicated in the protection of cells from oxidative injury. We studied the role of thiols in the regulation of apoptosis in cultured lung fibroblasts. Thiol depletion by culturing fibroblasts in cystine-free medium or with thiol-depleting agents induced oxidant accumulation and cell death by apoptosis. The cell death was prevented by the antioxidants ascorbic acid (AA) and catalase. Thiol depletion also induced leukotriene (LT) C4, LTD4, and LTE4 production and selective phosphorylation of p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and its nuclear substrate ATF2. LT production and p38-MAPK phosphorylation were required for induction of apoptosis because thiol depletion-induced apoptosis was completely blocked by the 5-lipoxygenase inhibitor AA861, the LT antagonists FPL55712 and ONO1078, and the p38-MAPK inhibitor SB203580. LT production was inhibited by AA and p38-MAPK phosphorylation was inhibited by AA, AA861, and FPL55712. In an in vitro scratch wound model, repopulating fibroblasts at the wound margin, but not quiescent cells at the intact site, selectively underwent thiol depletion- induced apoptosis that was completely blocked by AA861, FPL55712, and SB203580. Thus, thiol depletion induces apoptosis through an ordered pathway involving oxidant accumulation, LT production, and p38-MAPK activation. Apoptosis of wound fibroblasts may be responsible for impaired wound healing in various organs, including the lung.

Red blood cells inhibit apoptosis of human neutrophils

Oxidative stress has been implicated in the triggering of apoptosis in neutrophils. Because red blood cells (RBCs) are well known to scavenge oxidants including H2O2, we tested the hypothesis that RBCs inhibit apoptosis of neutrophils by reducing intracellular oxidative stress. Apoptosis of neutrophils was evaluated by light microscopy and DNA gel electrophoresis. We found that coculture with RBCs protected against neutrophil apoptosis. Neither physical contact between RBCs and neutrophils nor the cellular integrity of RBCs was required to protect against neutrophil apoptosis. Neutrophil apoptosis was promoted by exogenous H2O2 but suppressed by catalase, indicating a role for H2O2 as a mediator of apoptosis. The protective effect of RBCs against apoptosis was due to catalase and glutathione metabolism because blocking of these antioxidant systems in RBCs attenuated the protective effect of RBCs. These results suggest that neutrophils are protected against apoptosis in the circulation.

Effect of FK506 on ATP-induced intracellular calcium oscillations in cow tracheal epithelium

To elucidate the effect of FK506 on Ca2+ oscillations in airway epithelium, we investigated cultured cow tracheal epithelial cells with a Ca2+ image-analysis system. ATP (1 microM) induced long-lasting Ca2+ oscillations, having nearly constant peak values (300-400 nM) and intervals (20-40 s) in subconfluent cells but not in confluent cells. These responses were gradually attenuated and abolished by the addition of FK506. Rapamycin, which binds the FK506-binding protein (FKBP), likewise inhibited Ca2+ oscillations, whereas cyclosporin A, a calcineurin inhibitor, did not. Treatment of cells with FK506 decreased Ca2+ content in thapsigargin-sensitive stores, suggesting that the partial depletion of the stores causes the inhibition of Ca2+ oscillations. Immunocytochemistry revealed the existence of cytoplasmic FKBP-like immunoreactivities. The expression of a 12-kDa FKBP was greater in subconfluent cells than in confluent cells as determined by Western blotting, suggesting that the 12-kDa FKBP may be one of the factors that regulates Ca2+ oscillations. Therefore, FK506 possesses an inhibitory action on the Ca2+ response via intracellular FKBP but not via calcineurin, which may result in modification of airway epithelial functions.

Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus infection in the lung in multicentric Castleman's disease

A 32-year-old female was admitted for evaluation of multiple infiltrates on a chest radiograph. A diagnosis of multicentric Castleman's disease was made on the basis of typical clinical manifestations. Transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB) revealed histological findings reported in lymphocytic interstitial pneumonia. Both the polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization with a probe specific for Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) sequences demonstrated the presence of KSHV in the TBLB sample.

A diary form quality of life questionnaire for Japanese patients with lung cancer and summarization techniques for longitudinal assessment

The aim of this study was to confirm the validity and reliability of a new diary-type quality of life (QOL) self-rating questionnaire tailored for use by Japanese inpatients with lung cancer receiving chemotherapy. Two kinds of summary statistics were tested in QOL analysis. The questionnaire has a four-scale structure; physical, psychological, daily activity and global scales. Fifty-three patients were enrolled to test the reliability and validity. Summary statistics were assessed using indices of the area under the curve (AUC) and the maximum fluctuations of QOL scores (Dif max) in patients receiving cisplatin or carboplatin. The questionnaire had satisfactory reliability and validity. The physical, psychological and global scales scores changed to the worst levels after treatment, continuing for 1 week in the cisplatin group, whereas those of the carboplatin group began to worsen from day 3, but returned to prechemotherapy levels by day 9. The cisplatin group showed significant decrease of QOL compared with the carboplatin group in the AUC of psychological and two global scales, in the Dif max of psychological and linear analogue global scales. These results suggested that this questionnaire reflects differences in the influence of chemotherapy, and that AUC and Dif max may be useful indices for the analysis of QOL as measures to assess multidimensional QOL.

Role of p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase in spontaneous apoptosis of human neutrophils

Neutrophils constitutively undergo apoptosis at both normal and inflamed sites: an important process that limits the toxic potential of the neutrophil. However, the signal pathway for neutrophil apoptosis is currently unknown. In this study, we evaluated the role of p38-mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) in the spontaneous apoptosis of neutrophils in vitro. We found that p38-MAPK was constitutively tyrosine phosphorylated and activated during spontaneous apoptosis of neutrophils. Inhibition of p38-MAPK by SB203580 and an antisense oligonucleotide delayed apoptosis by approximately 24 h. The antioxidants catalase and N-acetylcysteine delayed neutrophil apoptosis, but failed to inhibit phosphorylation and activation of p38-MAPK. Granulocyte-macrophage CSF and anti-Fas Ab, which altered the rate of apoptosis, did not affect phosphorylation and activation of p38-MAPK. These results suggest that the constitutive phosphorylation and activation of p38-MAPK are involved in the program of spontaneous apoptosis in neutrophils.

Fas and Fas ligand interaction induces apoptosis in inflammatory myopathies: CD4+ T cells cause muscle cell injury directly in polymyositis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the involvement of the Fas/Fas ligand (Fas/FasL) system in the inflammatory myopathies.

METHODS

Frozen muscle sections obtained from 7 patients with polymyositis (PM), 4 patients with dermatomyositis (DM), and 3 controls were studied by immunochemistry. Apoptosis was detected by DNA electrophoresis and in situ labeling using the TUNEL method.

RESULTS

Fas was detected on muscle fibers and infiltrating mononuclear cells (MNC) in 6 PM patients and 2 DM patients. FasL was expressed mainly on CD4+ T cells and some CD8+ T cells, and on macrophages surrounding Fas-positive muscles in 4 PM patients and 1 DM patient. In 3 of the 5 patients with FasL-positive MNC, the TUNEL method showed that both invaded myonuclei and MNC underwent apoptosis. Chromosomal DNA from the muscle tissue of these patients showed ladder formation.

CONCLUSION

Fas/FasL is involved in muscle cell apoptosis in at least 2 of the inflammatory myopathies, PM and DM. Although CD8+-mediated cytotoxicity is thought to be the main mechanism of muscle injury in PM, our data suggest that CD4+ T cells also directly cause muscle cell damage.

Effect of azelastine on platelet-activating factor-induced microvascular leakage in rat airways

To determine the effect of the antiallergic drug azelastine on airway mucosal inflammation, we studied airway microvascular permeability in response to platelet-activating factor (PAF) in pathogen-free rats. Vascular permeability and neutrophil accumulation were assessed by the percent area occupied by Monastral blue-labeled blood vessels and by myeloperoxidase-containing granulocytes, respectively, in whole mounts of the trachea and main bronchus. Intravenous PAF caused dose-dependent increases in the area density of Monastral blue-labeled vessels and neutrophil influx, and the former effect was inhibited by depletion of circulating neutrophils by cyclophosphamide or treatment with the neutrophil elastase inhibitor ONO-5046. Pretreatment with azelastine inhibited PAF-induced vascular leakage without affecting neutrophil accumulation. This inhibitory effect of azelastine was not seen in neutropenic rats and ONO-5046-treated rats. PAF increased neutrophil elastase contents in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, an effect that was inhibited by azelastine. Therefore, azelastine attenuates PAF-induced airway mucosal microvascular leakage, probably involving inhibition of the release of neutrophil elastase from activated neutrophils.

Blood grouping of mixed bloodstains using immunocytochemical methods

Immunocytochemical methods to determine the ABO blood group of each blood of mixed bloodstains have been developed. Mixed bloodstains were made on surgical blades and a cedar board. The blades were dipped into blood and then dipped into blood of a different group at intervals of 30, 20, 15, 10 and 5 s. Two drops of blood were dropped on a cedar board and then two drops of blood of a different group were dropped there at the same intervals. The bloodstains were dried for a week. The blood samples were removed from the blades or the cedar board and processed according with a routine histological method. Three serial thin sections were obtained. After deparaffinization, the sections were treated in papain solution for 2 h at 36 degrees C, to unmask antigenic sites on red cell membranes. The labeled streptavidin-biotin (LSAB) and peroxidase-anti-peroxidase (PAP) methods were used to detect A and B antigens, and an indirect immunocytochemical method for H antigen. These immunocytochemical methods showed specific immunologic reactions and allowed determination of the blood group of each blood of mixed bloodstains. Further, these methods indicated a possibility to determine who was stabbed first, in cases where two or more victims were stabbed with a single knife.

Erythromycin inhibits ATP-induced intracellular calcium responses in bovine tracheal epithelial cells

Erythromycin (EM) therapy is known to decrease airway secretion in chronic inflammatory airway diseases such as diffuse panbronchiolitis. Airway secretion is regulated by intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). To elucidate the intracellular site of action of EM in airway epithelium, we examined the effect of EM on Ca2+ dynamics in cultured bovine tracheal epithelial cells using fura-2. EM per se did not cause any change in [Ca2+]i. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP; 10(-4) M) induced a biphasic [Ca2+]i increase, consisting of a transient response followed by a sustained response. Pretreatment of cells with EM had little effect on the ATP-induced transient Ca2+ response but substantially reduced the sustained response in a dose-dependent manner. Clarithromycin, another 14-membered ring macrolide, likewise showed the inhibitory effect, but ampicillin and cephasolin did not. Uridine triphosphate (UTP; 10(-4) M) induced a biphasic [Ca2+]i increase similar to ATP, and the UTP-induced sustained Ca2+ response was also inhibited by EM. In Ca2+-deficient medium (1 mM ethyleneglycol-bis-(beta-aminoethyl ether)-N, N'-tetraacetic acid [EGTA]) or in the presence of La3+, the sustained Ca2+ response disappeared, suggesting that EM may inhibit Ca2+ influx induced by P2u purinoceptor stimulation. In single-cell Ca2+ image analysis, low concentration of ATP (10(-6) M) induced Ca2+ oscillations, which were also inhibited by EM. The disappearance of [Ca2+]i oscillations after addition of EM was similar to that after addition of EGTA. These results suggest that EM may decrease Ca2+-dependent airway secretion by inhibiting agonist-stimulated Ca2+ influx.

[Thirteen-week intravenous repeated dose toxicity study of T-3762, a novel parenteral quinolone antimicrobial agent, and four-week recovery test in cynomolgus monkeys]

A thirteen-week intravenous repeated dose toxicity study of T-3762, parenteral quinolone antimicrobial agent, and four-week recovery test was carried out in male and female cynomolgus monkeys at dosages of 26, 52 and 104 mg/kg. The following results were obtained. 1) There was no death of animals during administration period at any dose levels. In general signs, there was no abnormality at any dose levels. 2) In appetite, body weights and ophthalmological examination, there was no abnormality attributable to the treatment. 3) In urinalysis, hematological examination and biochemical examination, there was no abnormality attributable to the treatment. 4) In organ weights, macroscopic findings and histopathological findings, there was no abnormality attributable to the treatment. 5) From these results in this study, no-toxic dose level of T-3762 for cynomolgus monkeys is considered over 104 mg/kg.

[Single dose intravenous toxicity studies of T-3762, a novel parenteral quinolone antimicrobial agent, in rats, dogs and monkeys]

Single dose intravenous toxicity studies of T-3762, a novel parenteral quinolone antimicrobial agent, were conducted in rats, dogs and monkeys. The following results were obtained. 1. In the rat study, all males and females given 260 mg/kg survived and all males and 3 of 5 females given 391 mg/kg died. Approximate lethal doses in male and female rats were between 260 and 391 mg/kg. In survived animals, decrease in locomotor activity and irregular respiration were observed. These clinical signs were recovered within 1 hour after dosing. In female rats given 260 mg/kg, no abnormalities were observed in general signs. In dead animals, decrease in locomotor activity, irregular respiration, staggering gait and tonic convulsion were observed and died within about 90 minutes after dosing. Macroscopic examinations in dead animals showed dark red discoloration in lung and had white foamy liquid in trachea. In histopathological examinations of dead animals, congestion, hemorrhage and edema were observed in lung. 2. In the dog study, 2 animals given 260 mg/kg survived and 2 animals given 521 mg/kg died. Approximate lethal dose in dogs was between 260 and 521 mg/kg. In the 260 and 521 mg/kg groups, decrease in locomotor activity, lateral position, vomiting, salivation and decrease in body temperature were observed. In the 521 mg/kg group, one animal died at 4 minutes and another 7 days after dosing. Histopathological examinations in 2 dead animals showed congestion or hemorrhage in heart, lung, liver, kidney, spleen and digestive tract. Erosion and necrosis at cartilage layer and cluster of chondrocyte were observed in scapular fossa and head of humerus in the 260 and 561 mg/kg groups. 3. In the monkey study, 2 animals given 260 mg/kg survived and 2 animals given 520 mg/kg died. Approximate lethal dose in monkeys was between 260 and 520 mg/kg. In the 260 mg/kg group, soft feces was observed. In the 520 mg/kg group, paleness mucosa of oral cavity, muscle weakness, mydriasis and dyspnea were observed and animals died within 4 minutes after dosing. Macroscopic and histopathological examinations in 2 dead animals showed congestion in lung, liver and kidney.

[Three months intravenous repeated dose toxicity study of T-3762 in rats]

A three months intravenous repeated dose toxicity study of T-3762, a novel parenteral quinolone antibacterial agent, was carried out in rats at dose levels of 4, 13, 39, 130 mg/kg. Fifteen rats of each sex were used in each group. Out of these, 5 rats of each sex were used for the recovery study. The following results were obtained. 1. There were no death caused by T-3762 within the study period. In clinical signs, the squeaks during injection in 130 mg/kg group were observed, but they decreased day by day. In body weight changes, a tendency to very slight decrease of weight gain in male 130 mg/kg group were seen, but there was no significant difference from control group. In food and water consumption, there was no abnormality. 2. There were no abnormality caused by T-3762 in urinalysis, hematological examination and ophthalmological examination. 3. In blood chemistry examinations, increase of A/G ratio was seen in 13, 39 and 130 mg/kg groups, but it showed tendency of recovery after withdrawal period. 4. In macroscopic and histological findings, erosion and cavitation of the articular cartilage were seen in 3 of 20 rats in 130 mg/kg group and 1 of 20 rats in 39 mg/kg group. 5. Non-toxic dose levels is estimated to 13 mg/kg, that showed no abnormality in the articular cartilage in this study.

[Effect of heparin on airway goblet cell secretion in sensitized guinea pigs]

Heparin and related proteoglycans are released from mast cells and possess anti-inflammatory and anti-complement activities. To elucidate whether heparin affects goblet cell secretion in asthmatic airways and, if so, what the mechanism of action is, we studied guinea pigs sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) by determining the mucus score (MS) of tracheal goblet cells stained with Alcian blue and PAS. Inhalation of OVA caused a rapid decrease in MS in a dose-dependent manner, with the maximal decrease being from 545 +/- 26 to 192 +/- 35 (p < 0.001), indicating an increase in goblet cell mucus discharge. This effect was selectively inhibited by the histamine H2 receptor blockade with cimetidine. Prior inhalation of heparin inhibited OVA-induced goblet cell secretion in a dose-dependent fashion, but had no effect on histamine-induced goblet cell secretion. The OVA-induced histamine release from the tracheal tissue was likewise inhibited by heparin. These results suggest that allergic challenge stimulates airway goblet cell secretion mainly through the release of histamine and the concomitant activation of histamine H2 receptors on goblet cells, and that heparin protects against this effect by inhibiting the histamine release from mast cells.

[Encephalopathy induced by fleroxacin in a patient with Machado-Joseph disease]

Convulsive seizure with unconciousness is an adverse effect of new quinolone antibiotics including fleroxacin. A block of GABA receptor in CNS has been reported as pathomechanism. A 48-year-old female patient with Machado-Joseph disease (MJD) had encephalopathy induced by fleroxacin. She revealed unconsciousness after the administration of fleroxacin (200mg/day) for three days. Electroencephrogram (EEG) showed diffuse slow waves. The administration was discontinued and her consciousness became clear after a day. The abnormal findings on EEG disappeared gradually. The concentrations of fleroxacin were within normal limits in serum and cerebrospinal fluid. The patient with MJD might have a tendency to develop encephalopathy by fleroxacin, because the GABA-ergic nervous system could be involved in MJD.

Vasopressin stimulates ciliary motility of rabbit tracheal epithelium: role of V1b receptor-mediated Ca2+ mobilization

Arginine vasopressin (AVP) has recently been shown to exist in and to be released from airway epithelial cells, but the physiologic role of this hormone in airway epithelial function is unknown. To determine whether AVP affects ciliary motility, and if so, to elucidate the mechanism of action and the subtype of AVP receptors involved, we measured ciliary beat frequency (CBF) and the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) of cultured rabbit tracheal epithelium with a photoelectric method and the fura-2 fluorescence method, respectively. Addition of AVP caused a rapid increase in CBF, followed by a decline and a subsequent sustained response. The ciliary stimulatory action was dose dependent, the maximal peak increase from the baseline CBF being 20.6 +/- 4.7% (mean +/- SE, P < 0.001), and this effect was reduced to 5.9 +/- 2. 0% by the V1 receptor antagonist OPC-21268 (P < 0.01), but not by the V2 receptor antagonist OPC-31260. The AVP-induced increase in CBF was not altered by the protein kinase A (PKA) inhibitor Rp-adenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphorothioate triethylamine (Rp-cAMPS) or by Ca2+-free solution containing ethylene glycol-bis-(beta-aminoethyl ether) N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA), but was abolished by pretreatment with thapsigargin. Exposure of cells to AVP elicited a transient increase in [Ca2+]i, an effect that was likewise abolished by thapsigargin. The rank-order potency of AVP analogues to increase [Ca2+]i was AVP = [deamino1, D-3-(pyridyl) Ala2-Arg8] vasopressin (DP-VP), a specific V1b receptor agonist > [Phe2, Ile3, Orn8] vasopressin (PO-VT), a V1a agonist > 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (dDAVP), a V2 agonist. Moreover, OPC-21268 greatly attenuated the action of AVP, whereas OPC-31260 was without effect. These results suggest that AVP stimulates ciliary motility of rabbit tracheal epithelium through mobilization of Ca2+ from thapsigargin-sensitive stores, and that this effect may be mediated by V1b receptors.

Atypical adrenoceptor-mediated relaxation of canine pulmonary artery through a cAMP-dependent pathway

We studied the existence of beta 3-adrenoceptors in canine pulmonary artery smooth muscle under isometric conditions in vitro. A rank order potency of vascular relaxation was isoproterenol > salbutamol > selective beta 3-adrenoceptor agonists, CL 316243 and BRL 37344. A marked desensitization to salbutamol occurred by pretreatment with salbutamol but not with CL 316243. When beta 1-adrenoceptors were blocked, the relaxant responses to salbutamol were competitively antagonized by the beta 2-adrenoceptor antagonist ICI 118551, whereas the response to CL 316243 was not. Cyanopindolol, a non-selective beta-adrenoceptor antagonist, antagonized CL 316243-induced relaxation in a competitive manner with a pA2 of 6.10, and this value was lower than that when salbutamol was used as an agonist (6.69). Intracellular cAMP levels were increased by CL 316243, an effect that was not altered by ICI 118551. Therefore, beta 3-adrenoceptors may be present and functioning in canine pulmonary artery.

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor induces neutrophil sequestration in rabbit lungs

The effects of intravenous injection of recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) on circulating neutrophil numbers, pulmonary vascular permeability, and morphologic changes in the lung were examined in rabbits. Intravenous injection of rhG-CSF caused a rapid, profound neutropenia due to neutrophil sequestration primarily within capillaries but also in larger microvessels of the lungs. Examination of neutrophil deformability using microfilters revealed that granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) treatment caused a rapid stiffening of neutrophils through the polymerization of F-actin but not microtubule assembly. The expression of CD11b, CD11c, and CD18 on human neutrophils after G-CSF treatment increased, but CD11a did not. Intravenous injection of rhG-CSF did not induce neutrophil emigration or albumin leakage into alveolar space, wet/dry lung weight ratios were unchanged, and no pathologic changes in lung histology were observed. These studies indicate that injection of rhG-CSF caused a rapid neutropenia and neutrophil sequestration in the lungs that is likely to be mediated through a G-CSF-induced decrease in neutrophil deformability, although neutrophil-endothelial cell adhesion may also play a role. However, this G-CSF-induced neutrophil sequestration did not induce a massive lung injury.

A human bronchial epithelial cell line releases arginine vasopressin: involvement of Ca2+ -activated K+ channels

To determine whether airway epithelium releases arginine vasopressin (AVP) and, if so, what the mechanism of the release is, we studied cultured human bronchial epithelial cell line, 16-HBE cells, in vitro. The cells spontaneously released small but significant amounts of AVP, and this release was dose dependently increased by platelet-activating factor (PAF) or bradykinin (BK). The PAF- and BK-induced AVP release was inhibited by 2-nitro-4-carboxyphenyl-N,N-diphenylcarbamate, a phospholipase C inhibitor, and thapsigargin but not by Ca2+ -free solution. Pretreatment with the big conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel blocker iberiotoxin attenuated the stimulated release of AVP, whereas apamin and glibenclamide were without effect. These results suggest that human bronchial epithelial cells release AVP and that the release may be stimulated by phospholipase C activation, mobilization of Ca2+ from internal stores and the concomitant activation of big conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels.

Fluorescence based co-amplification and automated detection of the STR loci HUMFIBRA and HUMD21S11 in a Hungarian Caucasian population sample

Population data were generated for the STR systems HUMFIBRA and HUMD21S11 for a Hungarian Caucasian population sample residing in Baranya County, Hungary (127 unrelated individuals). The loci were coamplified using a fluorescence based PCR method and were typed automatically. For both loci 12 different alleles could be found including some variants. No deviations from Hardy-Weinberg expectations were observed. Both loci proved to be highly discriminating and valuable polymorphisms for forensic analyses.