Selective disruption of interleukin 4 autocrine-regulated loop by a tyrosine kinase inhibitor restricts activity of T-helper 2 cells

Interleukin (IL) 4 is a potent immunomodulatory cytokine secreted by T-helper 2 (Th2) cells and Th2 mast cells that promotes the commitment of cells. However, unregulated production and release of IL-4 can exacerbate allergic reactions and increase susceptibility to infectious organisms and viruses. Here, we present evidence that AG-490, a Janus tyrosine kinase (JAK) 2-JAK3 inhibitor, effectively blocked IL-4 gene expression and secretion in the Th2 cell line D10 that was not occurring after anti-CD3 antibody stimulation, whereas AG-490 had no inhibitory effect on production of other Th2 cytokines or cytokines synthesized by the corresponding Th1 cell line clone 29. AG-490 potently inhibited IL-4-mediated proliferation of both D10 and the IL-4-dependent cell line CT.4S. Moreover, AG-490 markedly inhibited IL-4 activation of JAK3 and blocked the downstream activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 6, as judged by tyrosine phosphorylation, DNA binding, and transcription assays. In contrast, AG-490 did not affect tumor necrosis factor alpha activation of NF-kappaB at similar concentrations of drug. These data suggest that tyrosine kinase inhibitors that inhibit JAK3 may have previously unrecognized and selective clinical potential as immunotherapeutic drugs to treat Th2-mediated diseases driven by IL-4. (Blood. 2000;95:3816-3822)

Cellular proliferation and telomerase activity in CHRF-288-11 cells

Telomerase activity is detected in many immortalized cell lines. Recent studies suggest that terminal differentiation of some of these cell lines is associated with a reduction in telomerase activity. However, the question remains whether the reduction in telomerase activity results from terminal differentiation or from cessation of cellular proliferation. This was explored in the megakaryocytic cell line CHRF-288-11. Cells were treated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), which induces terminal differentiation of CHRF-288-11 cells, EGTA, serum depletion, and okadaic acid. All treatments resulted in cessation of proliferation. Except for okadaic acid, these treatments also induced inhibition of telomerase within 7 days. Restoring the original growth conditions of cells treated with PMA, EGTA and serum depletion resulted in the reversal of telomerase inhibition and an acceleration of proliferation. Apparent inhibition of telomerase was observed to follow the cessation of proliferation, whereas enhanced telomerase activity was noted to precede acceleration in proliferation. Thus, telomerase activity usually reflects the proliferative status rather than the differentiated status of CHRF-288-11 cells.

Activation of human T lymphocytes is inhibited by peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) agonists. PPARgamma co-association with transcription factor NFAT

T lymphocyte activation is highlighted by the induction of interleukin-2 (IL-2) gene expression, which governs much of the early lymphocyte proliferation responses. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARgamma) is a member of the nuclear receptor superfamily of ligand-activated transcription factors. PPARgamma mRNA expression was found in human peripheral blood T lymphocytes, raising the possibility of PPARgamma involvement in the regulation of T cell function. Here we show that PPARgamma ligands, troglitazone and 15-deoxy-Delta(12,14) prostaglandin J(2), but not PPARalpha agonist Wy14643, inhibited IL-2 production and phytohemagglutinin-inducible proliferation in human peripheral blood T-cells in a dose-dependent manner. This inhibitory effect on IL-2 was restricted to the PPARgamma2-expressing, not the PPARgamma-lacking, subpopulation of transfected Jurkat cells. The activated PPARgamma physically associates with transcriptional factor NFAT regulating the IL-2 promoter, blocking NFAT DNA binding and transcriptional activity. This interaction with T-cell-specific transcription factors indicates an important immunomodulatory role for PPARgamma in T lymphocytes and could suggest a previously unrecognized clinical potential for PPARgamma ligands as immunotherapeutic drugs to treat T-cell-mediated diseases by targeting IL-2 gene expression.

Targeted disruption of stat6 DNA binding activity by an oligonucleotide decoy blocks IL-4-driven T(H)2 cell response

The transcription factor, signal transducer and activator of transcription (Stat) 6, regulates T(H)2-lymphocyte activity by controlling the expression and responsiveness to interleukin (IL)-4, which plays a key role in numerous allergic maladies. Therefore, we sought to use a phosphorothiolate cis-element decoy to target disruption of Stat6 transcriptional activity. Here we showed that the Stat6 decoy potently ablated the messenger RNA expression and production of IL-4, but not of several other cytokines. The Stat6 decoy functionally disrupted IL-4-inducible cell proliferation of murine T(H)2 cells and primary human CD4(+) T lymphocytes. Specificity of the decoy was demonstrated by its ability to directly block Stat6 binding to a cis-element probe and transactivation, but not affect Stat6 tyrosine phosphorylation or expression of the IL-4 receptor chains. Moreover, the decoy failed to inhibit non-Stat6-dependent signaling pathways since IL-2 was competent to induce cell proliferation and activation of Stats 1, 3, and 5a/b. With the use of laser scanning confocal microscopy, fluorescently tagged Stat6 decoy was detectable in the cytoplasm and nucleus; however, greater levels of oligonucleotide were present in the latter following IL-4 treatment. Taken together, these data suggest that IL-4-driven T(H)2 cell activity can be preferentially restricted via targeted disruption of Stat6 by a novel and specific decoy strategy that may possess gene therapeutic potential. (Blood. 2000;95:1249-1257)

PI3K signaling in the murine kidney inner medullary cell response to urea

Growth factors and other stimuli increase the activity of phosphatidylinositol-3 kinase (PI3K), an SH2 domain-containing lipid kinase. In the murine kidney inner medullary mIMCD3 cell line, urea (200 mM) increased PI3K activity in a time-dependent fashion as measured by immune complex kinase assay. The PI3K effector, Akt, was also activated by urea as measured by anti-phospho-Akt immunoblotting. In addition, the Akt (and PI3K) effector, p70 S6 kinase, was activated by urea treatment in a PI3K-dependent fashion. PI3K inhibition potentiated the proapoptotic effect of hypertonic and urea stress. Urea treatment also induced the tyrosine phosphorylation of Shc and the recruitment to Shc of Grb2. Coexistence of activated Shc and PI3K in a macromolecular complex was suggested by the increase in PI3K activity evident in anti-Shc immunoprecipitates prepared from urea-treated cells. Taken together, these data suggest that PI3K may regulate physiological events in the renal medullary cell response to urea stress and that an upstream tyrosine kinase conferring activation of both PI3K and Shc may govern urea signaling in these cells.

ERK activation by urea in the renal inner medullary mIMCD3 cell line

Urea- and NaCl-inducible extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation exhibited dissimilar kinetics. Among cell lines examined, the effect of urea was unique to mIMCD3 inner medullary collecting duct cells and MDCK cells. Urea-inducible ERK activation was approximately 10-fold less sensitive to the MEK inhibitor, PD-98059, than was that of NaCl. This difference did not appear to be accounted for by differential activation of MEK isoforms. Interestingly, the inhibitor of p38 activation, SB-203580, abrogated the effect of both urea and NaCl upon both ERK and MEK activation; however, the former was much less sensitive to the inhibitor. Consistent with this observation, NaCl was much more effective than urea at inducing p38 phosphorylation. The effect of hypertonic stress (e.g., sorbitol 100 mM) could be blocked by appropriate medium dilution such that isotonicity was maintained. In marked contrast, the effect of hyperosmotic urea could not be blocked in this fashion, implying the absence of dependence upon cell volume. Together, these data suggest that cells of the renal inner medulla are potentially uniquely responsive to urea and that urea and hypertonic stressors induce ERK activation through distinct mechanisms.

Protective effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on cultured rat cardiomyocytes damaged by H2O2

AIM

To investigate the influence of Ginkgo biloba extract (GbE) on cardiomyocytes damaged by H2O2.

METHODS

Cultured rat cardiomyocytes were divided into 3 groups randomly: control group; H2O2 (2.5 mmol.L-1) group; H2O2 2.5 mmol.L-1 + GbE 150 mg.L-1 group. The cardiomyocytes were cultured in MEM (Eagle's) at 37 degrees C in the presence of 5% CO2 for 4 h. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was assayed by colorimetric method. Lipid peroxidation was determined by measuring thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances. Ultrastructure was viewed under transmission electron microscope.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, LDH leakage and malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased in H2O2 group, LDH increased from (2166 +/- 247) U.L-1 to (5180 +/- 648) U.L-1, MDA increased from (3.5 +/- 0.2) nmol/10(6) cells to (7.2 +/- 0.4) nmol/10(6) cells (P < 0.01). The ultrastructure was damaged seriously. GbE inhibited the increase of LDH leakage and MDA content induced by H2O2. In this group, LDH decreased from (5180 +/- 648) U.L-1 to (3496 +/- 386) U.L-1, MDA decreased from (7.2 +/- 0.4) nmol/10(6) cells to (4.8 +/- 0.9) nmol/10(6) cells (P < 0.01). Ultrastructure of cells was also protected by GbE.

CONCLUSION

GbE protected the cardiomyocyte against H2O2 injury, the protective action was attributed to its antiperoxidative effect.

Expression of transforming growth factor-beta complex in arteriovenous malformations

The factors responsible for the development of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are not well known. Patients with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) have cutaneous vascular dysplasia and a high propensity to develop systemic and cerebral AVMs. Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) complex has been implicated in HHT. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of TGF-beta 1, TGF-beta 2, TGF-beta 3, and their two receptors (R1 and R2) in AVMs and in normal brain vessels. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from 20 patients with cerebral AVMs (including two patients with HHT) were sequentially sectioned into 6 microns sections. Similar sections from normal brain tissue were obtained from five patients without AVMs and no intracranial pathology, who had died from unrelated causes. The normal tissue sections included large intracranial arteries, small arteries, venous sinuses, cortical veins, and brain tissue containing arterioles, capillaries, and venules. All specimens underwent immunohistochemical analyses with polyclonal antibodies to the following antigens: TGF-beta 1, TGF-beta 2, TGF-beta 3, and R1 and R2. The immunoreactivity, when present, was consistently noted in endothelial cells and in the medial smooth muscle. The intensity of vessel wall immunostaining was graded on a scale from 0 to 3. The mean staining grades of normal vessels for TGF-beta 1, TGF-beta 2, TGF-beta 3, R1, and R2 were 0.6 (range 0-1), 3, 2.8 (range 2-3), 1.6 (range 0-2), and 3, respectively, whereas the mean staining grades of AVM vessels were 0.3 (range 0-1), 0.8 (range 0-1), 0.6 (range 0-1), 1.4 (range 0-2), and 0.9 (range 0-1), respectively. The study thus demonstrated that normal brain vessels (arteries, veins, small vessels) have strong (range 2.8-3) immunostaining for TGF-beta 2, TGF-beta 3, and R2, and that the AVM nidus vessels have a paucity (range 0.8-0.9) of staining for these factors. In AVM vessels that had zero immunoreactivity to the above three factors, the vessel wall was fibrocollagenous rather than muscular. Further studies to examine the TGF-beta complex behavior in AVMs are needed.

Urea-associated oxidative stress and Gadd153/CHOP induction

Urea treatment (100-300 mM) increased expression of the oxidative stress-responsive transcription factor, Gadd153/CHOP, at the mRNA and protein levels (at >/=4 h) in renal medullary mIMCD3 cells in culture, whereas other solutes did not. Expression of the related protein, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBP-beta), was not affected, nor was expression of the sensor of endoplasmic reticulum stress, grp78. Urea modestly increased Gadd153 transcription by reporter gene analysis but failed to influence Gadd153 mRNA stability. Importantly, upregulation of Gadd153 mRNA and protein expression by urea was antioxidant sensitive. Accordingly, urea treatment was associated with oxidative stress, as quantitated by intracellular reduced glutathione content in mIMCD3 cells. In addition, antioxidant treatment partially inhibited the ability of urea to activate transcription of an Egr-1 luciferase reporter gene. Therefore oxidative stress represents a novel solute-signaling pathway in the kidney medulla and, potentially, in other tissues.

Preparation and characterization of bioactive monolayer and functionally graded coatings

Hydroxyapatite powders were made by reacting orthophosphoric acid with calcium hydroxide and dense bioactive coatings were subsequently produced by the plasma spray technique. Three types of hydroxyapatite (flame spheroidized) monolayer coatings and three types of functionally graded coatings were manufactured. It was found that average microhardness values of monolayer coatings decreased as the indentation load increased. The relationship between indentation load and indent diagonal length observed Meyer's law. Microhardness and fracture toughness of coatings were affected by characteristics of feedstock powders for plasma spraying. The indentation fracture toughness of coatings could be significantly increased by incorporating a toughening phase.

Human acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase-1 (ACAT-1) gene organization and evidence that the 4.3-kilobase ACAT-1 mRNA is produced from two different chromosomes

Acyl-CoA:cholesterol acyltransferase (ACAT) plays important roles in cellular cholesterol homeostasis. Four human ACAT-1 mRNAs (7.0, 4.3, 3.6, and 2.8 kilobases (kb)) share the same short 5'-untranslated region (exon 1) and coding sequence (exons 2-15). The 4.3-kb mRNA contains an additional 5'-untranslated region (1289 nucleotides in length; exons Xa and Xb) immediately upstream from the exon 1 sequence. One ACAT-1 genomic DNA insert covers exons 1-16 and a promoter (the P1 promoter). A separate insert covers exon Xa (1277 base pairs) and a different promoter (the P7 promoter). Gene mapping shows that exons 1-16 and the P1 promoter sequences are located in chromosome 1, while exon Xa and the P7 promoter sequence are located in chromosome 7. RNase protection assays demonstrate three different protected fragments, corresponding to the 4.3-kb mRNA and the two other mRNAs transcribed from the two promoters. These results are consistent with the interpretation that the 4.3-kb mRNA is produced from two different chromosomes, by a novel RNA recombination mechanism involving trans-splicing of two discontinuous precursor RNAs.

Hypotonicity activates transcription through ERK-dependent and -independent pathways in renal cells

Acute hypotonic shock (50% dilution of medium with sterile water, but not with isotonic NaCl) activated the extracellular signal response kinase (ERK) mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases in renal medullary cells, as measured by Western analysis with a phospho-ERK-specific antibody and by in vitro kinase assay of epitope-tagged ERKs immunoprecipitated from stable HA-ERK transfectants. Hypotonicity also activated the transcription factor and ERK substrate Elk-1 in a partially PD-98059-sensitive fashion, as assessed by chimeric reporter gene assay. Consistent with these data, hypotonic stress activated transcription of the immediate-early gene transcription factor Egr-1 in a partially PD-98059-sensitive fashion. Hypotonicity-inducible Egr-1 transcription was mediated in part through 5'-flanking regions containing serum response elements and in part through the minimal Egr-1 promoter. Elimination of the Ets motifs adjacent to key regulatory serum response elements in the Egr-1 promoter diminished the effect of hypotonicity but failed to abolish it. Interestingly, hypotonicity also transiently activated p38 and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase 1, as determined by immunoblotting with anti-phospho-MAP kinase antibodies. Taken together, these data strongly suggest that hypotonicity activates immediate-early gene transcription in renal medullary cells via MAP kinase kinase-dependent and -independent mechanisms.

Forty-five year's experience of the treatment of choriocarcinoma and invasive mole

Our work was begun in 1949. through many yera's effort, several chemicals (such as 6 MP, 5 FU and others) were found to be effective for the treatment of choriocarcinoma (C.C.) and invasive mole (I.M.). From 1959 through 1985, 1500 patients were consecutively treated. The mortality rate of CC was reduced from > 90% to < 20%. No more death occurred in IM. All Survivors followed up for 10-38 years showed no evidence of residual disease. 80% of the young patients treated with chemotherapy alone conceived after recovery. The pregnancy outcome showed no deviation from that of the general population. All children are growing up normally many married and gave birth to normal third generations. The results indicated that chemotherapy with 5 FU achieves not only a complete remission, but also a cure, even with wide-spread metastases. The results of choriocarcinoma and invasive mole treated with mainly 5 FU were reported. The clinical experience in the management of metastases at different sites were also summarized.

Identification of redox-sensitive cysteines in GA-binding protein-alpha that regulate DNA binding and heterodimerization

The transcription factor GA-binding protein (GABP) is composed of two subunits, GABPalpha and GABPbeta. The DNA-binding subunit, GABPalpha, is a member of the Ets family of transcription factors, characterized by the conserved Ets-domain that mediates DNA binding and associates with GABPbeta, which lacks a discernible DNA binding domain, through ankyrin repeats in the NH2 terminus of GABPbeta. We previously demonstrated that GABP is subject to redox regulation in vitro and in vivo through four COOH-terminal cysteines in GABPalpha. To determine the roles of individual cysteines in GABP redox regulation, we generated a series of serine substitution mutants by site-directed mutagenesis and identified three redox-sensitive cysteine residues in GABPalpha (Cys388, Cys401, and Cys421). Sulfhydryl modification of Cys388 and Cys401 inhibits DNA binding by GABPalpha, whereas, modification of Cys421 has no effect on GABPalpha DNA binding but inhibits dimerization with GABPbeta. The positions of Cys388 and Cys401 within the known Ets-domain structure suggest two very different mechanisms for redox regulation of DNA binding. Sulfhydryl modification of Cys388 could directly interfere with DNA binding or might alter the positioning of the DNA-binding helix 3. Modification of Cys401 may inhibit DNA binding through stabilization of an inhibitory helix similar to that described in the Ets-1 protein. Thus, GABP is regulated through at least two redox-sensitive activities, DNA binding and heterodimerization.

Vascular endothelial growth factor expression and vascular density as prognostic markers of survival in patients with low-grade astrocytoma

It has long been recognized that some patients with low-grade astrocytoma may survive for many years, whereas in others the disease follows a more malignant course resulting in a short survival time, usually due to malignant transformation into higher-grade tumors.

OBJECT

The aim of this study was to investigate angiogenesis in the initial biopsy specimen of tumor tissue as a biological marker to identify patients with low-grade astrocytoma who are at high risk of malignant tumor transformation or death.

METHODS

Tumor tissue was studied in 74 consecutively treated adult patients in whom a diagnosis of diffuse supratentorial hemispheric histologically proven fibrillary low-grade astrocytoma was made and who underwent surgery between January 1972 and January 1994. Studies were conducted using monoclonal antibodies to the antigens of the proliferation-associated Ki-67 (MIB-1), factor VIII, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and epidermal growth factor (EGF). The overall 5-year survival rate for the entire patient population was 65%, with a median survival time of 7.5 years. The total mean follow-up period was 6.1 years. All tumors showed a low proliferative potential at the time of the initial operation, as demonstrated by an MIB-1 labeling index of less than 1.5%. Patients with more than seven microvessels in tumor tissue (29 cases) had a shorter survival time (mean 3.8 years) than those with seven or fewer microvessels (mean survival 11.2 years). This difference in survival times was significant by univariate (p = 0.001) and stepwise multivariate analyses (p < 0.001). Tumors with a larger number of microvessels also had a greater chance of undergoing malignant transformation (p = 0.001). Similarly, significant staining for VEGF was correlated with shorter survival times when using univariate (p = 0.003) and multivariate (p = 0.008) analyses and with a greater chance of malignant transformation (p = 0.002). Patients with tumors staining positive for VEGF (39 individuals) had a median survival time of 5.3 years, and those with tumors negative for VEGF (35 patients) had a median survival time of 11.2 years. No association was observed between bFGF, EGF, and survival or malignant transformation. The stepwise multivariate analysis included histological and clinical variables simultaneously.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors have shown that microvessel density and VEGF levels are independent prognostic markers of survival in fibrillary low-grade astrocytoma. This finding leads them to propose that fibrillary diffuse low-grade astrocytoma is not a single pathological entity but is composed of a spectrum of tumors with differing propensities to undergo malignant transformation that is at least partly based on their inherent angiogenic potential.

GA-binding protein-dependent transcription initiator elements. Effect of helical spacing between polyomavirus enhancer a factor 3(PEA3)/Ets-binding sites on initiator activity

Many eukaryotic RNA polymerase II promoters contain initiator elements which direct accurate transcription in a TATA-independent manner. The PEA3/Ets-binding site (PEA3/EBS) is a common enhancer element in eukaryotic genes and is also found near the transcriptional start sites of many TATA-less promoters. We demonstrate that two PEA3/EBSs driving expression of the luciferase reporter gene, function as a minimal transcriptional initiator element. Maximal levels of transcription was achieved when two PEA3/EBSs, in either orientation, were located on the same face of the DNA helix, and the sites could be separated by up to three helical turns. In vitro transcription start sites directed by PEA3/EBS elements were clustered on either side of the upstream PEA3/EBS and were abolished by immunodepletion of GA-binding protein (GABP) from FM3A cell nuclear extracts. In vivo, co-transfection of GABPalpha and GABPbeta expression vectors enhanced reporter gene expression driven from PEA3/EBS initiator elements. Like other initiator elements, the PEA3/EBS elements were activated synergistically by upstream Sp1-binding sites. Thus, our results establish GABP as both a transcriptional activator factor and as an initiator factor.

The role of ganglioside GM3 in the modulation of conformation and activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase

Rabbit sarcoplasmic reticulum does contain trace amounts of gangliosides, and the main species is GM3. Incorporation of GM3 into the SR vesicles or addition of it to the soybean phospholipid used for reconstitution of proteoliposomes obviously increased ATP hydrolysis, as well as, Ca2+ uptake activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase. Conformation changes of Ca(2+)-ATPase induced by GM3 were also observed by circular dichroism, intrinsic fluorescence and fluorescence quenching measurements.

Lack of difference in oxalate-dependent Ca2+ uptake by membrane homogenate of African-American and white subjects

In order to further characterize previously described racial differences in intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis, the activity of sarcoplasmic-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase was measured in cultured skin fibroblasts from normotensive African-Americans and whites. Cells originated from apparently healthy, normotensive African-American (n = 15) and white (n = 15) subjects. The activity of the sarcoplasmic-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase was measured by: 1) oxalate-dependent only, and 2) oxalate-dependent, thapsigargin-sensitive 45Ca2+ uptake of membrane homogenates. Over 90% of the oxalate-dependent 45Ca2+ uptake was thapsigargin-sensitive. There was no detectable racial difference in the sarcoplasmic-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase activity with either technique. It is concluded that the previously described higher cellular Ca2+ turnover and larger cellular stores of exchangeable Ca2+ in cells from African-Americans versus whites are not due to changes in the sarcoplasmic-endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase itself. The findings do not exclude possible increased activity of this enzyme in intact cells of African-Americans where regulatory mechanisms not present in the membrane preparation may operate.

Linkage analysis using platelet-activating factor Ca2+ response in transformed lymphoblasts

Epstein-Barr virus-transformed lymphoblasts from patients with essential hypertension demonstrate enhanced G protein-mediated cytosolic free calcium ([Ca2+]i) response to platelet-activating factor (PAF). To map genes responsible for variation in G protein-coupled signaling, we used this cellular phenotype for a linkage study of transformed cell lines from the Centre d'Etude du Polymorphisme Humain (CEPH) reference pedigrees. The PAF-evoked change in [Ca2+]i ranged from 20 to 392 mmol/L and was highly reproducible within each cell line. PAF-elicited [Ca2+]i responses were obtained in lymphoblastic cell lines from five densely mapped pedigrees of the CEPH collection. Using PAF-evoked [Ca2+]i responses as a quantitative trait, two-point sibpair linkage analyses were conducted using 5150 markers from the Collaborative Human Linkage Center (CHLC) database. Nine loci, located on chromosomes 1, 4, 10, 11, 13, 16, and 17, were suggestive of linkage, with values of P < 7.4 x 10(-4). Multipoint linkage analysis produced a significant linkage finding (P = 2.1 x 10(-5) in one family at D16S151, with suggestive linkage results for seven additional markers spanning a 40-cM interval of chromosome 16. Multipoint analysis produced suggestive findings of linkage to eight loci from two distinct regions of chromosome 11 in another family. These results indicate that loci involved in the control of G protein-mediated mechanisms, suggested to be involved in the pathophysiology of essential hypertension, can be identified using cell lines from general pedigrees selected without any knowledge of the blood pressure status of the donors. This strategy represents an approach to rapidly and inexpensively mapping loci related to common, complex disorders, using phenotypes that are stable in immortalized lymphoblasts together with existing reference pedigree cell lines and genotype databases.

Redox regulation of GA-binding protein-alpha DNA binding activity

We have investigated the reduction/oxidation (redox) regulation of the heteromeric transcription factor GA-binding protein (GABP). GABP, also known as nuclear respiratory factor 2, regulates the expression of nuclear encoded mitochondrial proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation, including cytochrome c oxidase subunits IV and Vb, as well as the expression of mitochondrial transcription factor 1. GABP is composed of two subunits, the Ets-related GABP-alpha, which mediates specific DNA binding, and GABP-beta, which forms heterodimers and heterotetramers on DNA sequences containing the PEA3/Ets motif ((C/A)GGA(A/T)(G/A)). We demonstrate here that GABP DNA binding activity and GABP-dependent gene expression in 3T3 cells are inhibited by pro-oxidant conditions. DNA binding of recombinant GABP-alpha was activated by chemical reduction (dithiothreitol) and by thioredoxin; however, GSSG inhibited GABP DNA binding activity. Treatment of GABP-alpha, but not GABP-beta1, with sulfhydryl-alkylating agents also inhibited GABP DNA binding activity. Our results suggest that GABP DNA binding activity is redox-regulated in vivo, possibly by thioredoxin-mediated reduction and by GSSG-mediated oxidation of the GABP-alpha subunit. The regulation of GABP (nuclear respiratory factor 2) DNA binding activity by cellular redox changes provides an important link between mitochondrial and nuclear gene expression and the redox state of the cell.

Effect of transmembrane Ca2+ gradient on the coupling of beta-adrenergic receptors and adenylyl cyclase

In order to investigate the effect of transmembrane Ca2+ gradient on Gs mediated coupling of beta-AR and adenylyl cyclase, beta-AR from duck erythrocytes and Gs and adenylyl cyclase from bovine brain cortices were co-reconstituted into asolectin liposomes with different transmembrane Ca2+ gradient. These proteoliposomes were proven to be impermeable to water-soluble substances. The results obtained indicate that a physiological transmembrane Ca2+ gradient (1000-fold) is essential for higher stimulation of adenylyl cyclase by hormone-activated beta-AR via coupling to Gs and can be further enhanced by the decrease of such Ca2+ gradient within certain range (100 fold) following Ca2+ influx into cells during signal transduction. Fluorescence polarization of DPH revealed that transmembrane Ca2+ gradient modulates adenylyl cyclase and its stimulation by hormones through mediating a change in lipid fluidity. Correspondent conformational changes of beta-AR were also detected from the fluorescence spectra and quenching of Acrylodan-labelled beta-AR in those proteoliposomes. It is suggested that a proper transmembrane Ca2+ gradient is essential for the optimal fluidity of the phospholipid bilayer in the proteoliposomes, which favors the formation of a suitable conformation of the reconstituted beta-AR and thus promotes the stimulation of adenylyl cyclase activities by hormone-activated beta-AR via Gs.

Effect of ganglioside GM3 on the activity and conformation of reconstituted Ca2+-ATPase

Trace amounts of gangliosides were found in rabbit skeletal muscle sarcoplasmic reticulum and their main part was shown, by high performance thin layer chromatography. to be GM3. Addition of GM3 to the soybean phospholipids used for reconstitution of proteoliposomes markedly increased ATP hydrolysis as well as Ca2+ uptake activity of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase incorporated into the proteoliposomes. Conformation changes of Ca2+-ATPase induced by GM3 were also observed by intrinsic fluorescence and circular dichroism measurements.

Isolation and characterization of a folate receptor-directed metalloprotease from human placenta

Glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol-anchored hydrophobic placental folate receptors (PFRs), which have an important functional role in maternal-to-fetal transplacental folate transport, can be converted to soluble hydrophilic forms by a placental metalloprotease. Using a Triton X-114 temperature-induced phase separation assay to monitor enzyme-mediated conversion of radiolabeled hydrophobic PFR into hydrophilic PFR, a metalloenzyme was isolated to apparent homogeneity from Triton X-114-solubilized human placenta using concanavalin A-Sepharose and reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) as major purification steps. The purified hydrophobic enzyme eluted as a single protein peak on reverse-phase HPLC and SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis revealed a single 63,000 M(r) species, which was reduced to 58,000 M(r) following deglycosylation, findings comparable with amino acid analysis (M(r) approximately 59,000). The metalloenzyme was activated by Mg2+, Zn2+, Mn2+, and Ca2+, optimally at physiologic pH; it also exhibited EDTA-sensitive endoproteolytic cleavage of [3H]leucine-labeled full-length nascent PFR polypeptide generated in vitro in the absence of microsomes. Rabbit polyclonal anti-metalloprotease antiserum specifically immunoprecipitated 125I-metalloprotease and recognized cross-reacting moieties on plasma membranes of normal human hematopoietic progenitor cells and human cervical carcinoma cells, both of which also express FR.

[The trend of proportion among inpatients with gout in 21 hospitals during the past 15 years]

We analyzed data gathered from 21 hospitals in our country from 1979 to 1993 on the total number of hospitalized patients with the number of gout patients. Results showed that the proportion of hospitalized gout patients in 21 hospitals has increased sharply during the past 15 years (Chi2 = 823.4, P < 0.001). The constituent ratio of hospitalized gout patients in 13 hospitals in southern China increased abruptly (Chi2 = 650.9, P < 0.001); while the constituent ratio in 8 hospitals in northern China increased to a lesser extent (Chi2 = 188.1, P < 0.001). A significant difference was noticed between southern and northern China (Chi2 = 45.8, P < 0.001). During the past 15 years, the proportion of hospitalized gout patients has been increasing rapidly, with greater extent in the south. This is probably related to the economic development which improves the standard of living and to the changes of food structure.

The endothelin receptor profile in L6 myotubes

In this study we characterized the endothelin (ET) receptors of cultured L6 myotubes in order to gain a further insight into the mechanism of the ET effect on skeletal muscle cells. Displacements of 125I-ET-1 by unlabeled ET-1, ET-2 and ET-3 revealed receptors with a high affinity (Kd < 1 nmol/l) to ET-1 and ET-2 and a low affinity (Kd > 100 nmol/l) to ET-3, which suggested the presence of primarily ETA receptors on L6 myotubes. These findings were complemented by displacement binding kinetics, in which the ETA receptor antagonist JKC-301 was used. More-over, the ET-1-evoked increase in the cytosolic free Ca was blocked by JKC-301 but not by the ETB receptor antagonist IRL-1038. Collectively, these findings indicate that the ET-mediated response in cultured skeletal muscle cells is through the ETA receptor.

Pharmacokinetics of ceftizoxime in renal failure patients without dialysis

AIM

To investigate the pharmacokinetics of ceftizoxime (Cef) in renal failure patients without any dialysis and supply the basis for a suitable clinical regimen.

METHODS

Cef in plasma and urine was assayed by HPLC.

RESULTS

After injecting Cef 16.7 mg kg-1, Cef concentration in blood was described as a 2-compartment open model. The main pharmacokinetic parameters were Vd 0.55 +/- 0.17 L kg-1; AUC 879 +/- 460 mg L-1 h; Cl 27 +/- 11 mL kg-1 h-1. T1/2 beta was 15 +/- 4 h.

CONCLUSION

T1/2 beta in renal failure patients was about 10 times longer than that in normal volunteers. The clinical regimen should be adjusted in renal failure patients with infection, either prolonging the interval between Cef administration, or decreasing Cef dosage.

[A clinical study on low dose cyclosporin A in the treatment of lupus nephritis]

The aim of this study is to compare the effects of low dose cyclosporin A (CsA) and intravenous cyclophosphamide pulses (IV-CTX) in the treatment of lupus nephritis (LN). Thirty patients were included in the study with 15 in each group. The improvement of ESR and proteinuria and the increase of serum albumin were observed in the CsA group, but not in the IV-CTX group at the early stage of the therapy, though the overall effects were similar. The conclusion is that the use of low dose CsA could quench the activity of LN at the early stage of the therapy, reduce the doses of steroid and CTX and minimire their side effects. IV-CTX was added to 8 cases of LN before CsA treatment had been tapered of or withdrawn. The results indicated that this regimen could effectively prevent the relapse of LN after the withdrawal of CsA therapy. It is an effective and valuable therapy.

[Protective effect of captopril on cultured rat myocardial cells with anoxia and reoxygenation injury]

The effect of captopril (Cap) on electric activity of cultured rat myocardial cells under anoxia and reoxygenation was studied with standard microelectrode techniques. Results showed that anoxic solution caused lowerings of MDP, APA, and Vmax, and a shortening of APD50. All myocytes revealed multiform arrhythmias, and most cells stopped beating within 30 min, while only 40% of the cells exhibited arrhythmias but none stopped beating in the presence of 40 mg.L-1 under the same condition. During reoxygenation, most cells resumed beating in 10 min but some of these cells stopped beating again. The electric activities in rebeating cells during reoxygenation for 30 min were lower than those in normoxic cells. Cap (40 mg.L-1)-treated cells rebeat quickly after reoxygenation and no cell stopped beating any more, with parameters higher than those in untreated cells. These results demonstrate that Cap yields some beneficial effects on preventing anoxia and reoxygenation injury in cultured rat myocardial cells.

Endothelin mobilizes calcium and enhances glucose uptake in cultured human skeletal myoblasts and L6 myotubes

In this study we used endothelin as a paradigm to explore the concept that some vasoactive agents, acting through mobilization of Ca2+ and stimulation of protein kinase C, can interact with human skeletal muscle and modify its glucose transport. Cultured human skeletal myoblasts from the vastus lateralis demonstrated two subclasses of high-affinity endothelin receptors and a robust increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ upon exposure to endothelin. The endothelin-evoked rise in cytosolic free Ca2+ primarily resulted from Ca2+ mobilization from intracellular organelles. Both endothelin and insulin enhanced [3H]deoxy-D-glucose uptake in human myoblasts, but their effects were not additive. These findings also were observed in differentiated myotubes of L6 skeletal muscle cells. Moreover, [3H]deoxy-D-glucose uptake in human myoblasts was enhanced by treatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. The endothelin- and insulin-mediated increases in [3H]deoxy-D-glucose were totally ablated by treatment with calphostin C. Such observations suggest that endothelin can enhance glucose uptake in human skeletal muscle. This is mediated through mechanisms that are at least partially protein kinase C dependent. Thus, increased levels of endothelin in vascular beds may contribute to altered glucose metabolism in essential hypertension.

Effects of kappa-selenocarrageenan on membrane fluidity and ghost reseal ability of rat erythrocyte

Effects of kappa-selenocarrageenan (kappa-SeC) on membrane fluidity and ghost reseal ability of rat erythrocyte were studied by measuring the fluorescence polarization and the NADH-cytochrome C oxido-reductase, respectively. After rats were given ig kappa-SeC 140 mg.kg-1.d-1 x 30 d, the fluorescence polarization was decreased in comparison with saline control group (P < 0.05). It suggested that kappa-SeC increased the membrane fluidity. The reseal ability of erythrocyte membrane (ghost) was also elevated after ig kappa-SeC 140 and 70 mg.kg-1.d-1 x 30 d (P < 0.05).

[Selective arterial embolization in the management of hemoperitoneum caused by trophoblastic disease]

In the field of gynecologic oncology, surgical intervention has been the traditional management of hemoperitoneum. Recently selective arterial embolization has been reported to effectively control gastrointestinal bleeding caused by peptic ulcer and postoperative abdominal or retroperitoneal bleeding associated with gynecologic malignancy. This study reports the use of selective arterial embolization in the management of hemoperitoneum caused by trophoblastic disease. Analysis of 4 cases provides valuable information which enhances the safety and efficiency of this procedure. Results suggest that selective arterial embolization should be considered in the management of hemoperitoneum caused by trophoblastic disease.

Neural network approaches to visual motion perception

This paper concerns certain difficult problems in image processing and perception: neurocomputation of visual motion information. The first part of this paper deals with the spatial physiological integration by the figure-ground discrimination neural network in the visual system of the fly. We have outlined the fundamental organization and algorithms of this neural network, and mainly concentrated on the results of computer simulations of spatial physiological integration. It has been shown that the gain control mechanism, the nonlinearity of synaptic transmission characteristic, the interaction between the two eyes, and the directional selectivity of the pool cells play decisive roles in the spatial physiological integration. In the second part, we have presented a self-organizing neural network for the perception of visual motion by using a retinotopic array of Reichardt's motion detectors and Kohonen's self-organizing maps. It has been demonstrated by computer simulations that the network is able to learn to solve the ambiguities given by local motion detection mechanism. The resultant self-organized configuration in the output layer is resembling direction selective columns which first appear in area MT of the primate visual system. It has been explored that the spatio-temporal coherences, mapping, cooperation, competition, and Hebb rule are the basic neural principles for visual motion perception.

[Preservation of PCNA in different fixatives and demonstration of PCNA as well as membrane antigen by double labelling technique]

Four fixatives were used with two different fixation times in order to determine the influence of different fixatives on PCNA preservation. The result indicated that the aldehyde-base fixatives preserved PCNA excellently and the appropriate fixative time was 24 hours. The result of alcohol-base fixative on PCNA preservation seemed unsatisfactory and 10% buffer formalin was the best one among the aldehyde-base fixatives for this preservation. Additionally, double-labelling technique for demonstrating PCNA as well as the membrane antigen in the same slide was established. Selection of antigen chromogens suitable to double-labelling is described.

[Protective effects of nicorandil on action potentials in anoxia and reoxygenated ventricular myocardium of guinea pig]

Standard microelectrode techniques were used to study the effects of nicorandil (500 mumol.L-1) on action potentials in anoxia and reoxygenated ventricular myocardium of guinea pig. The main results: (a) Nicorandil shortened the action potentials duration (APD) and increased the ratio of effective refractory period (ERP) to APD90 (ERP/APD90). It did not cause significant changes in resting potential (RP), the maximal rate of rise of phase 0 (Vmax) and action potential amplitude (APA); (b) Exposure of the preparation to anoxic conditions (hypoxia, acidosis, glucose deprivation, and hyperkalemia) for 20 min, resulted in a marked depolarization of RP, a shortening of APD, reductions of APA and Vmax, and an increase in the ratio of ERP/APD90; (c) Nicorandil did not produce any additional effect on these parameters during anoxia except aggravated shortening of APD; (d) The changes of action potential parameters during anoxia were all completely reversed when the preparation was reoxygenated in the absence of the drug for 20 min. In the presence of the drug, however, APD was only partially reversed; (e) Nicorandil decreased the incidence of abnormal automaticity occurring during reoxygenation from 14/16 to 4/16. It is concluded that nicorandil antagonizes the cellular mechanisms which underlie the reoxygenation arrhythmias and prevent the reoxygenation-induced arrhythmias.

[Gene diagnosis and successful reversion in a patient with preleukemia]

According to the FAB classification, a patient (case 1) could not be diagnosed as MDS-RA, although she had clinical features of MDS, as compared with another patient (case 2) who was diagnosed as RAS and had abnormal karyotype (20q- and 5q-) of bone marrow (BM) cells. BM cells of the two patients were SCD (sister chromatid differentiation) negative. Rearrangement of c-erbB and c-erbA was found in the genome of the BM cells in both patients, when southern blot hybridization was performed with probe v-erbB+A. Therefore, case 1 could be diagnosed as preleukemia. During a period about 3 years of treatment with the drug stanozolol in case 1 there was good effect and successful reversion was obtained. She had then normal hematologic and cytogenetic patterns of BM and PB and the rearrangement of c-erbB of BM cells also disappeared. She has worked for two years since then. The mechanism of effective treatment and successful reversion was discussed briefly. Probe v-erbB was shown to be useful in investigation of gene diagnosis of preleukemia or MDS (shown elsewhere).

Serum concentration fluctuation and bioavailability comparison between indomethacin sustained-release and conventional capsules during steady state

The comparison between indomethacin conventional capsule (CC) po 25 mg q 8 h or 25 mg tid and indomethacin sustained-release capsule (SRC) po 25 mg bid in human by crossover design showed that both maximal serum concentration (Cmax) and fluctuation index (FI%) of SRC were significantly lower than those of CC during steady state (P < 0.01). No practical differences were observed between the 2 preparations in the trough serum concentration (Cmin) and area under serum concentration-time profiles (AUC0-tau) (P > 0.05). The time period reaching maximal serum concentration (Tmax) of SRC was much more delayed than that of CC (P < 0.01). It suggested that SRC possesses a better controlled release property and could avoid a higher serum peak concentration of CC.

Expression of a 91-kilodalton PEA3-binding protein is down-regulated during differentiation of F9 embryonal carcinoma cells

Proteins binding to the PEA3 enhancer motif (AGGAAG) activate the polyomavirus early promoter and help comprise the viral late mRNA initiator element (W. Yoo, M. E. Martin, and W. R. Folk, J. Virol. 65:5391-5400, 1991). Because many developmentally regulated cellular genes have PEA3 motifs near their promoter sequences, and because Ets family gene products activate the PEA3 motif, we have studied the expression of PEA3-binding proteins and Ets-related proteins during differentiation of F9 embryonal carcinoma cells. An approximately 91-kDa protein (PEA3-91) was identified in F9 cell nuclear extracts by UV cross-linking to a radiolabeled PEA3 oligonucleotide probe, and expression of PEA3-91 was down-regulated after differentiation of F9 cells to parietal endoderm. The c-ets-1 gene product binds to a sequence in the murine sarcoma virus long terminal repeat that is similar to the PEA3 motif (cGGAAG), but PEA3-91 was not cross-linked to this Ets-1-binding motif, nor did antiserum which recognizes murine c-ets-1 and c-ets-2 proteins have any effect on PEA3-binding activity in mobility shift assays. Furthermore, c-ets-1 mRNA was not detected in undifferentiated or differentiated F9 cells, and c-ets-2 mRNA levels remained high after differentiation. Antiserum against the Drosophila Ets-related E74A protein, however, recognized an approximately 92-kDa protein in F9 cells whose expression during differentiation varied in a manner identical to that of PEA3-91. These data suggest that PEA3-91 is not the product of the ets-1 or ets-2 genes but is likely to be the product of a murine homolog of the Drosophila E74 gene.

[Diagnosis and treatment of hemothorax in malignant trophoblastic tumors]

From 1949 to 1988, 32 cases of hemothorax were seen in our hospital. The incidence rate of hemothorax among the cases of choriocarcinoma and invasive mole in the whole series were 2.6% and 1.4% respectively. The most frequent symptoms were chest pain, cough, dyspnea, and hemoptysis. Before 1965, when 6-MP was the only agent used, 7 of the 16 patients with hemothorax died directly due to severe intrathoracic hemorrhage, from 1966 to 1988, when intravenous infusion of 5-FU and intrathoracic injection of 5-FU were used, only 4 of the 16 cases died, there was no death directly related to hemothorax. About 75% were followed up for more than 10 years, the longest duration of follow up being more than 28 years in 6 cases. Repeated examinations with serum hCG determination and chest film revealed no evidence of recurrence, nor pleural adhesion and thickening or pulmonocardiac diseases.

Renal metastases of choriocarcinoma. A clinicopathological study of 31 cases

From 1949 through 1978, 31 patients with renal metastasis were diagnosed in a total of 448 cases of choriocarcinoma admitted to our hospital, giving an incidence of 6.9%. Renal metastasis was invariably preceded by pulmonary metastases and usually accompanied by other visceral metastases, indicating that renal metastasis is the result of dissemination of tumor cells secondarily from lung metastasis through the general circulation and should be categorized as arterial metastasis. Pyelogram is useful in the presence of medullary invasion by the tumor. Renal metastatic tumors are very sensitive to chemotherapy. Good response to chemical agents may be due to high drug concentration attained in the kidney tissue during excretion. Since successful treatment of renal metastasis by chemotherapy alone may be obtained, patients can be spared a major operation without jeopardizing the prognosis.

[Immunohistochemical study on human epithelial ovarian carcinoma after radioimmunodetection with 131I-labelled polyclonal antibodies]

We report the results of our immunohistochemical study on the distribution and the retention time of the injected labelled antibodies in both primary and recurrent ovarian epithelial carcinomas and the regional lymph nodes, following the radioimmunodetection with injection of 131I-labelled polyclonal antibodies (including 5 cases of intravenous injection group and 35 cases of subcutaneous injection group). Six other tumors or tumor-like lesions, 8 normal ovaries and 7 normal fallopian tubes were used for control. The results demonstrated: 1. The labelled antibodies were specific for ovarian epithelial carcinoma, 2. The concentration of the labelled antibodies in the lymph node metastasis was higher in the subcutaneous injection group than in the intravenous injection group. Therefore, the subcutaneous route should be used both for imaging and radioimmunotherapy of lymph node metastasis, 3. The retention time of the antibodies in the lymph node metastasis was not more than 24 days. With this reference, the total dose of radioimmunotherapy can be calculated.

Nucleotide sequence of the promoter and fadB gene of the fadBA operon and primary structure of the multifunctional fatty acid oxidation protein from Escherichia coli

The primary structure of a multifunctional protein, the large alpha-subunit of the Escherichia coli fatty acid oxidation complex, was determined by sequencing the fadB region of the fadBA operon. The amino-terminal sequence of this protein had been established by Edman degradation. The transcription start site of the fadBA operon was located 42 nucleotides upstream of the initiator codon of the fadB gene by primer extension analysis. Sequences of -10 and -35 regions of the promoter responsible for interaction with RNA polymerase were found to be CACACT and TTTGCA, respectively. The location of the promoter of the fadBA operon was defined, and the transcription direction of this operon, from fadB to fadA, as previously proposed [Yang, S.-Y., et al. (1990) J. Biol. Chem. 265, 10424-10429], was corroborated. The multifunctional protein is composed of 729 amino acid residues and has a calculated Mr of 79,593. A putative NAD-binding beta alpha beta-fold necessary for L-3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase function was found in the central region of the fadB gene product. Sequence analyses suggest that the functional domains of the multifunctional protein are arranged in the order enoyl-CoA hydratase:L-3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase: delta 3-cis-delta 2-trans-enoyl-CoA isomerase and suggest that the genes of the E. coli multifunctional protein and rat peroxisomal trifunctional beta-oxidation enzyme evolved from a common ancestral gene.

Characteristics of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria in China. Clinical analysis of 476 cases

476 cases of paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) were analysed and compared with PNH patients in foreign countries and its classification was discussed. The clinical characteristics in Chinese PNH patients were: males were affected more; the age of onset was young; more common in north China; hemoglobinuria as an initial symptom was less common; thrombosis as a complication was relatively rare; the common causes of death were heart failure, infections and hemorrhage; and bone marrow picture might show mild dyshematopoiesis.

New refractive method for laser thermal keratoplasty with the Co:MgF2 laser

We have observed corneal curvature changes from laser thermal keratoplasty with a Co:MgF2 laser. We studied corneal curvature changes in rabbits and have identified specific treatment patterns and laser parameters that can correct myopia and astigmatism. These corneal changes, some as large as 8 diopters, have been stable for at least one year, and slitlamp examination demonstrates clear central corneas with normal appearance.

[Colitis due to chemotherapeutic agent]

From 1965 through 1989, a total of 1,382 cases of malignant trophoblastic neoplasms, were treated in our hospital. Colitis related to chemotherapy was observed in 110 cases. This toxic reaction was specific to 5-Fluorouracil treatment and may result in pseudomembranous colitis if improperly treated. Staphylococcus aureus or Clostridium difficile was the causative agent. For the early detection of this disease, it is necessary to monitor the bacteria flora in the smear of fecal substance. Vancomycin and Metronidazole together with lactobacillus preparation were given and proved to be effective in most cases. The mechanism of formation of pseudomembranous colitis, the causative agents and method of diagnosis and treatment were discussed.

Blood magnesium parameters do not differ with age

The relationship between age and blood magnesium (Mg) parameters has not been defined. Mg measurements in plasma, red blood cells (RBCs), and mononuclear blood cells (MBCs) were made in 104 normal volunteers (43 males and 61 females, ages 11-75 years). MBCs were separated from blood using a discontinuous Ficoll-Hypaque gradient. The mean values (+/- SEM) were as follows: plasma Mg 1.63 +/- 0.01 mEq/L, RBC Mg 4.55 +/- 0.06 mEq/L, MBC Mg content 72.8 +/- 1.0 fg/cell, and MBC Mg concentration 19.6 +/- 0.3 mEq/L. We compared these parameters with age (intervals of 10 years) using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and found no significant differences (p greater than 0.05). Thus, plasma, RBC, and MBC Mg parameters do not vary significantly between the ages of 11 and 75 years.

[Influence of dexamethasone on electrical activities in cultured rat beating myocardial cells infected with Coxsackie B-2 virus]

The effects of dexamethasone (Dex) on electrical activities in cultured rat beating myocardial cells infected with 100 TCID-50 Coxsackie B-2 virus (CB2V) was evaluated by conventional intracellular microelectrode technique. The frequency began to increase, the beating % decreased, and multiform arrhythmias were shown in the infected group 24 h post-challenge. Meanwhile, the cytopathic effect (CPE) appeared rapidly from 1+ to 3+. In the infected and Dex-treated group, the beating % was higher and the arrhythmias and CPE were less than in the infected group at the same intervals. The numbers of non-beating cells increased parallel to the incubation time in the infected group. Decreases of maximal diastolic potential (MDP), maximal upstroke rate (Vmax), overshoot (OS) and action potential amplitude (APA), and abbreviation of action potential duration (APD50 and APD100) in infected and Dex-treated group were less than those in control group during 24-96 h post-challenge. Premature beats, tachycardia, bradycardia and fibrillation occurred in the early stages after infection. It is surmised that steroids can probably save the lives of patients with severe myocarditis if Dex was supplemented.