Reduction in choroidal blood flow occurs in chicks wearing goggles that induce eye growth toward myopia

Goggles that degrade the retinal image produce axial enlargement of the ocular globe and large myopic refractive errors. Many authors have assumed that visual image degradation itself leads to myopia. Hodos and co-authors have shown, however, that goggled eyes in chicks are considerably warmer than normal. Such temperature changes may either underlie or be a consequence of alterations in choroidal blood flow (CBF). Since alterations in CBF could affect eye growth, we explored the effect of monocular goggling on CBF in chicks. Plastic goggles were glued over one eye in four-day old chicks and the goggles were left in place for 12 or 14 days. Fourteen days after the goggling, CBF was measured using laser Doppler velocimetry. Three groups of chicks were studied: 1) chicks with goggles for 14 days; 2) chicks with goggles for 12 days followed by no goggles for the two days; 3) age matched non-goggled chicks. A -scan ultrasonography confirmed that the visual deprivation produced vitreous chamber elongation in the goggled eye and that the degree of elongation for the goggled eye was the same for the two goggled groups. The results were: 1) blood flow in non-goggled chicks was similar in both eyes; 2) blood flow was significantly reduced in the goggled eye in chicks wearing goggles for 14 days- 37% of control; and 3) blood flow was still significantly reduced in the goggled eye in chicks whose goggles were removed two days before measurement- 51% of control. These results show that CBF is reduced by goggles that result in myopic eye growth.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Choroidal blood flow is reduced in chicks with ocular enlargement induced by corneal incisions

We have previously reported decreased choroidal blood flow (CBF) associated with goggle-induced ocular enlargement and myopia. It was uncertain, however, if this change in CBF was related to the occurrence of ocular enlargement or the increased ocular temperature produced by the goggle. We therefore used corneal surgery-induced ocular enlargement that eliminated the thermal effects observed with goggles to investigate the effects of ocular enlargement on CBF. Central corneal incisions (2 mm in length) were made in the right eye of 4 day old chicks and the wound sutured. In one group, the incision was oriented along the vertical meridian (with the head in its natural position -beak tip 30-45 degrees below horizontal), while in another group the incision was oriented along the horizontal meridian (with the head in its natural position). Age matched controls received no corneal incision. Two weeks later, CBF was measured using laser Doppler velocimetry. After determining CBF, the eyes were removed and axial length, nasotemporal length and dorsoventral length were measured. Ocular enlargement was induced in 11 out of 12 chicks with vertical cuts. The CBF in the operated eye of these 11 animals was 62% of that in the nonoperated eye. Ocular enlargement was also induced in eight of 14 chicks with horizontal cuts. The CBF in the operated eye in these eight chicks was 60% of that in the nonoperated eye. The extent of eye growth was greater in all dimensions in the vertical cut chicks with ocular enlargement than in the horizontal cut chicks with ocular enlargement.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The distribution of cholinergic neurons in the central nervous system of turtles

The distribution of cholinergic neurons was studied in painted and red-eared turtles using antisera against choline acetyltransferase (ChAT). The results showed that the organization of cholinergic systems in the central nervous system of turtles was remarkably similar to that previously described in diverse other species. For example, the present studies revealed the presence of cholinergic neurons in the striatum, the basal telencephalon, the isthmo-tectal system, and a region of cells near the cerebellar peduncle. The motoneurons of the III, IV, V, VI, VII, X and XII cranial nerves and the spinal ventral horn were also shown to be cholinergic. Additional cholinergic neurons were observed in the hypothalamus and rhombencephalic reticular formation. These results help to clarify the precise extent and location of the major cholinergic cell groups of the turtle brain, thereby adding to our understanding of the organization of the turtle nervous system. The results also reveal that the cholinergic systems of the striatum, basal forebrain, isthmic region, and cerebellar peduncular region are ancestral features of the amniote brain and are common to all living amniotes that have been studied. Thus, the organization and, presumably, the function of the cholinergic systems appear to be conservative.

Osteoarthritis in the human knee: a dynamic process of cartilage matrix degradation, synthesis and reorganization

The matrix of articular cartilage undergoes degenerative changes in osteoarthritis which involve a number of matrix molecules. The structural and mechanical integrity is organized around the composite collagen II, IX, XI fibrillar organization. The small proteoglycan decorin that binds to these fibrils may influence their structure and mechanical properties. Aggrecan interacts indirectly via hyaluronic acid and possibly directly through unknown mechanisms. When collagen is cleaved at the articular surface in early osteoarthritis, decorin and aggrecan are lost. Increases in decorin and aggrecan content occur deeper in the cartilage. This is accompanied by evidence for increased formation of collagen fibrils and increased degradation and synthesis of aggrecan and type II collagen. The net contents of these proteoglycan per tissue do not, however, change until advanced degeneration occurs. These degradative processes are likely catalyzed by metalloproteinases and cysteine proteases. Cartilage exhibits significant capacity for remodelling which may be enhanced by therapeutic management of this process.

Studies of the articular cartilage proteoglycan aggrecan in health and osteoarthritis. Evidence for molecular heterogeneity and extensive molecular changes in disease

Changes in the structure of the proteoglycan aggrecan (PG) of articular cartilage were determined immunochemically by RIA and gel chromatography and related to cartilage degeneration documented histologically by the Mankin grading system. Monoclonal antibodies to glycosaminoglycan epitopes were used. In all cartilages, three chondroitin sulfate (CS)-rich populations of large size were observed in addition to a smaller keratan sulfate (KS)-rich population. In grades 7-13 OA cartilages (phase II), molecules were significantly larger than the equivalent molecules of grades 2-6 (phase I). CS chain lengths remained unchanged. In most OA cartilages, a CS epitope 846 was elevated in content, this being most marked in phase II (mean: fivefold). Loss of uronic acid, KS, and hyaluronic acid were only pronounced in phase II OA because of variations in normal contents. Aggregation of PG was unchanged (50-60%) or reduced in OA cartilages, but molecules bearing epitope 846 exhibited almost complete aggregation in normal cartilages. This study provides evidence for the capacity of OA cartilage to synthesize new aggrecan molecules to replace those damaged and lost by disease-related changes. It also defines two phases of PG change in OA: an early predominantly degenerate phase I followed by a net reparative phase II accompanied by net loss of these molecules.

Expression of p43 in breast cancer tissue, correlation with prognostic parameters

Placental isoferritin (PLF) and its unique superheavy chain p43 have been recently described as being synthesized by breast cancer cell lines but not by normal breast epithelial cells. Since previous reports have demonstrated a correlation between the content of 'normal' ferritin in breast cancer tissue and the degree of differentiation and prognosis, we have determined p43 in the cytosol of 122 breast cancer samples by use of the new monoclonal antibody CM-H-9. The synthesis of p43 showed a significantly negative correlation with tumor size (P = 0.0001), histologic grading (P = 0.0038), nuclear pleomorphism (P = 0.0019), rate of mitosis (P = 0.0002), lymphocytic reaction (P = 0.0001) and a significantly direct correlation with estrogen receptor status (P = 0.0009). Although patients with a higher p43 content showed a trend for a better outcome (median follow-up: 61.4 months), an independent influence of the cytosolic p43 content on survival could not be confirmed by a multiple Cox model. Therefore it seems that p43's prognostic impact is linked to the highly significant correlation with features of differentiation although a statistical bias in the Cox model due to the limited number of patients must also be taken into account. On the other hand, the significant correlation of p43 expression with factors for good prognosis was striking and consistent and warrants further research of this tumor product.

The neurotensin-related hexapeptide LANT6 is found in retinal ganglion cells and in their central projections in pigeons

Previous biochemical and immunohistochemical studies have shown that the neurotensin-related hexapeptide LANT6 is widespread and abundant in the avian nervous system. In the present study, immunohistochemical techniques were used to show that LANT6 is present in numerous cells of the retinal ganglion cell layer in pigeons. Consistent with the possibility that these LANT6+ retinal cells might be retinal ganglion cells, it was found that (1) the distribution of LANT6+ fibers and terminals in the central retinal target areas matched the distribution of central retinal projections; (2) the LANT6+ fibers and terminals are eliminated from retinal target areas by transection of the contralateral optic nerve; and (3) LANT6+ retinal cells in the ganglion cell layer can be retrogradely labeled by injections of fluorogold in the tectum. These results suggest that LANT6 may be utilized as a neuroactive substance by the central terminals of numerous retinal ganglion cells in birds. Similar anatomical findings have been previously reported for members of several other vertebrate groups, giving rise to the possibility that LANT6 (or its homologues in nonavians) may be a phylogenetically ubiquitous neuroactive substance used by retinal ganglion cells.

Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide-containing nerve fibers are increased in abundance in the choroid of dystrophic RCS rats

As photoreceptor degeneration progresses in Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats, a variety of morphological and physiological alterations occur in the outer retina. Since the choriocapillaris responds to changes in the outer retina in other retinopathies, we examined the possibility that changes in the choroidal vasculature also occur in RCS rats. The choroidal and choriocapillary vessels in RCS and control (RCS-rdy+) rats were examined during the period after which photoreceptor loss and retinal vascular changes had occurred (7-mos to 28-mos). Light microscopic (LM) morphometry and electron microscopic (EM) examination showed no significant differences between these groups in the number, size or morphology of these vessels. However, EM image analysis revealed that nerve fibers and bundles were twice as abundant in the RCS choroid than in the control. Using immunohistochemical techniques at the LM level combined with image analysis we found that vasoactive intestinal polypeptide positive (VIP+) fibers were significantly increased in the RCS choroid compared with control choroid. In contrast, the abundance of immunoreactive fibers labelled for substance P and dopamine beta hydroxylase appeared similar in both the control and RCS choroid. Since VIP is a potent vasodilator, the increased abundance of nerve fibers in the RCS choroid in conjunction with the unaltered number and size of these vessels suggests that choroidal blood flow may be increased. It is uncertain whether this increase is a response to the outer retinal pathology or contributes to it.

[Epidermal growth factor receptor in human breast cancer: correlation with steroid receptors, tumor stage, grading and menopausal status]

In this study, correlations between the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF-R), steroid receptors, and other prognostic parameters (grading, pTNM-status, menopausal status) were analysed in 326 primary breast carcinomas. 19% of the tumour samples were EGF-R positive, 63% were estrogen receptor (ER) and 54% progesteron receptor (PR) positive. Both steroid receptors were positive in 46% of all samples. We found a highly significant inverse correlation between EGF-R and steroid receptors. 88% of the ER positive tumours were EGF-R negative (p less than 5 x 10(-5)), 90% of the PR positive tumours were EGF-R negative (p less than 5 x 10(-5)) and 91% of the ER plus PR positive tumours were ERF-R negative (p less than 1 x 10(-6)). Grading was available in 170 cases. Six (4%) of the carcinomas were highly differentiated (G1), 82 (48%) were classified as G2, and another 82 (48%) were poorly differentiated (G3). A combination of negative ER and positive EGF-R was found more often in the population of G3 tumours. EGF-R was also positively correlated to tumour size. With regard to receptor status, we did not find a correlation with lymph node involvement. The ER correlated negatively (p less than 1.3 x 10(-5) and the EGF-R positively (p less than 0.042) with menopausal status. Thus, EGF-R overexpression seems to be a marker of morphological and functional dedifferentiation which is associated with a loss of steroid dependency and an increase of an autostimulatory-paracrine growth control. These changes seem to be related to poor prognosis.

An immunohistochemical study of the telencephalon of the senegal bichir (Polypterus senegalus)

The telencephalon in ray-finned fish (actinopterygians) is everted, in contrast to the evaginated telencephalic hemispheres in all other vertebrates. In the more derived ray-finned fish, the teleosts, proliferation of neurons and their migration from the ependymal zone of the pallium renders comparisons between telencephalic cell groups of the teleosts and members of other vertebrate groups extremely difficult. The telencephalon of Polypterus (a primitive living ray-finned fish), although everted, is cytoarchitecturally much simpler than that of teleosts. We have thus applied immunohistochemical techniques to the study of the telencephalon of Polypterus to help clarify the evolution of the telencephalon in teleosts and facilitate comparisons between the telencephalon in ray-finned fish and other vertebrates. Antisera against the following neuroactive substances were used: 1) serotonin (5HT), 2) tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), 3) substance P (SP), 4) leucine-enkephalin (ENK), 5) neuropeptide Y (NPY), and 6) the neurotensin-related hexapeptide LANT6. Several features of the labeling patterns obtained suggested that the dorsal and ventral subdivisions of the area ventralis are homologous as a field to the basal ganglia and septum plus other basal telencephalic regions of land vertebrates, sharks and lungfish: 1) an abundance of SP+, NPY+, and ENK+ fibers; 2) an abundance of TH+ fibers, possibly of posterior tubercle/tegmental origin; 3) the presence of an SP+ fiber bundle that appeared to descend from basal telencephalic levels and terminate in the posterior tubercle/tegmentum, which contain TH+ (possibly dopaminergic) neurons; and 4) an abundance of 5HT+ fibers, presumably of posterior tubercle/tegmental origin. It was not possible, however, to recognize distinct pallidal and striatal subdivisions within the area ventralis of Polypterus. The olfactory pallium (P1) was generally poor in most of the substances examined, except for the presence of LANT6+ fibers. The P3 pallial field was conspicuously rich in SP+ and ENK+ fibers throughout its extent, and the caudal and lateral parts of the P2 field were rich in SP+ fibers and ENK+ fibers. Since this is characteristic of the medial pallial and/or dorsomedial pallial walls of the telencephalon in lungfish, sharks, frogs, and reptiles, the P3 field and caudolateral part of the P2 field may be homologous to these portions of the telencephalon in other vertebrates. More rostromedial parts of P2 may correspond to those parts of the pallium in land vertebrates that are in receipt of specific sensory input from the thalamus, since low neuropeptide levels are characteristic of these regions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Preferential loss of striato-external pallidal projection neurons in presymptomatic Huntington's disease

We have reported previously that striatal projection neurons are differentially affected in the course of Huntington's disease, and in a prior patient report we noted that differential loss of striatal projection neurons occurs also in patients with presymptomatic Huntington's disease. Striatal neurons projecting to the external segment of the globus pallidus or the substantia nigra show evident loss, whereas those projecting to the internal segment of the globus pallidus appear relatively spared at presymptomatic and early stages of symptomatic Huntington's disease. We now report similar findings in a second apparently presymptomatic Huntington's disease allele carrier.

Biotinylated dextran amine as an anterograde tracer for single- and double-labeling studies

Fluorescent dextran amines have recently been reported to be useful for anterograde pathway tracing. However, fluorescent markers are not always ideal for detailed mapping studies. We therefore evaluated the efficacy of a biotinylated dextran amine (BDA) for anterograde labeling in several different preparations. BDA was visualized with an avidin-biotinylated HRP (ABC) procedure followed by a standard or metal-enhanced diaminobenzidine (DAB) reaction. After iontophoretic injections of BDA into neocortex-like telencephalic regions in pigeons or into visual or somatosensory cortex in rats, there was excellent and abundant labeling of axons and terminals in forebrain, midbrain and hindbrain target areas with 1-week survival times. Large pressure injections of BDA into the avian telencephalon were also found to result in extensive anterograde labeling. We then carried out a series of studies using 2-color DAB double-labeling to determine effective approaches for combining BDA labeling with other labeling methods. Using an isolated embryonic chick spinal cord-hindlimb preparation, we combined BDA labeling with another anterograde labeling method to differentially label two sets of projections. In these studies, sensory neuron and motoneuron projections into the limb from the same segmental level, or motoneuron projections into the limb from two separate segments were differentially labeled by using HRP (visualized first with a blue/black metal-DAB reaction) and BDA (visualized second with a brown DAB reaction). In other double-labeling studies, we combined BDA labeling of axons and terminals with immunohistochemical labeling of neurons. In these experiments, telencephalic neurons in pigeons or rats were labeled immunohistochemically for parvalbumin or substance P (using a brown DAB reaction) and BDA-labeled axons were labeled blue/black (using a metal-intensified DAB reaction). Double-labeling was successful regardless of whether the entire immunohistochemical labeling procedure preceded or followed the BDA labeling procedure. Together, these studies show that BDA is effective for anterograde pathway tracing and can be used in double-label studies with other labeling methods.

Ultrastructural double-labeling demonstrates synaptic contacts between dopaminergic terminals and substance P-containing striatal neurons in pigeons

Immunohistochemical studies in rats have demonstrated dopaminergic input onto medium spiny neurons of the striatum. Medium spiny neurons, however, are known to consist of two major neuropeptide-specific types, those containing substance P (SP) and those containing enkephalin. Although both of these types have been shown to receive dopaminergic input onto their perikarya and proximal dendrites, the extent to which both types also receive direct dopaminergic input onto distal dendritic shafts or onto dendritic spines is uncertain. In the present study, we used EM immunohistochemical double-label techniques to examine the synaptic organization of dopaminergic input onto SP+ striatal neurons. We examined the striatum of pigeons, in whom SP+ striatal neurons, including their dendritic shafts and spines, can be readily labeled. Antibodies against tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) were used to identify dopaminergic terminals, which were labeled using silver-intensified immunogold. The SP+ neurons were labeled immunohistochemically using diaminobenzidine. We found that dopaminergic terminals make appositions and form symmetric synapses with the perikarya, dendritic shafts and dendritic spines of SP+ neurons. Thus, nigral dopaminergic neurons provide a monosynaptic input onto SP+ striatal neurons in a manner similar to that described for dopaminergic input onto striatal medium spiny neurons in general.

Placental isoferritin associated p43 antigen correlates with features of high differentiation in breast cancer

Placental isoferritin (PLF), an acidic isoform of ferritin, and its unique superheavy chain p43 have been recently described to be synthesized by breast cancer cell lines but not by normal breast epithelial cells. Since previous reports have demonstrated a correlation between the content of 'normal' ferritin in breast cancer tissue, degree of differentiation, and prognosis, we have tried to evaluate the correlation of p43 in the cytosol of 122 breast cancer samples with commonly applied prognostic factors and features of proliferation and differentiation. In parallel, we investigated the correlation of p43 expression in MCF-7 and T47-D breast cancer cell lines during proliferation induced by estradiol plus fetal calf serum (assessed by 3H-thymidine incorporation), compared to p43 expression in stationary non-stimulated cell cultures. The levels of p43 in breast cancer cytosols correlated significantly negatively with tumor size (p = 0.0001), histologic grading (p = 0.0038), nuclear pleomorphism (p = 0.0019), rate of mitosis (p = 0.0002), and lymphocytic reaction (p = 0.0001), and significantly directly with the estrogen receptor status (p = 0.0009). Although patients with a higher p43 content showed a trend for a better outcome (median follow-up: 61.4 months), an independent influence of the cytosolic p43 content on survival could not be confirmed by a multivariate Cox model. In accordance with the observed negative correlation of features of differentiation vs. p43 expression, induction of proliferation by estradiol plus FCS added to serum-free tissue culture medium correlated with a decrease of p43 synthesis in both cell lines. Expression of p43 in estrogen and FCS-absent media revealed also a decrease in relation to a low spontaneous proliferation. However, the drop of p43 synthesis was significantly stronger in cell lines with estrogen-stimulated proliferation. Our in vitro and cytosol results confirm recent clinical observations describing an inverse correlation of p43 synthesis with the degree of proliferation and differentiation in breast cancer. However, the pathologic mechanisms leading to this phenomenon as well as the negative correlation with lymphocytic infiltration are still unclear and need to be further elucidated.

DNA ploidy and other results of DNA flow cytometry as prognostic factors in operable breast cancer: 10 year results of a randomised study

We evaluated breast cancer specimens from 241 patients of a controlled clinical trial by means of DNA flow cytometry. We report the correlations between DNA index (DNI) and fraction of cells in S-phase (SPF) and other prognostic parameters. Both univariately and in a Cox model, the predictive power of these factors is evaluated after a follow-up of more than 10 years. There are strong correlations between DNI and SPF (P = 0.0001) and between flow cytometry parameters and clinical and histopathological factors such as axillary lymph node involvement, tumour size and histological grade. In univariate analysis DNI fails to provide prognostic information, whereas SPF turns out to be able to differentiate between patients at high and low risk for relapse and death (P = 0.002). In the multivariate Cox model, too, SPF is an important prognostic parameter with respect to patient survival (relative risk: +86%), only surpassed by nodal involvement. DNI, however, turns out to be an independent predictor of relapse free survival and distant recurrence free survival. By combination of DNI and SPF, patients can be divided into three prognostic subgroups. We conclude that data from DNA flow cytometry can be of great importance for the decision on the level of aggressiveness of adjuvant therapy for an individual patient and therefore may help to avoid overtreatment and toxicity.

Selective functional posterior rhizotomy for treatment of spastic cerebral palsy in children. Review of 50 consecutive cases

Fifty consecutive children are described with spastic cerebral palsy treated with selective functional lumbar and sacral rhizotomy and followed for a minimum of 6 months. In all patients, spasticity improved postoperatively, but this was not necessarily accompanied by a functional improvement. Eighteen children who could not walk preoperatively were able to do so after rhizotomy. All 17 children who could walk preoperatively could do so following surgery, and in 15, gait was improved. Complications included transient urinary dysfunction in 4 children and sensory loss in 1. The operative procedure evolved with time: the technique of replacement laminotomy was refined; the electrophysiologic basis for selection of nerve rootlets changed after studies of nonspastic controls; smaller percentages of the L3 and L4 roots were sectioned in an attempt to prevent postoperative weakness of quadriceps, and there was a trend in the most recent patients to cut a smaller portion of all the posterior roots.

Immunohistochemical localization of DARPP-32 in striatal projection neurons and striatal interneurons: implications for the localization of D1-like dopamine receptors on different types of striatal neurons

Immunohistochemical double-label techniques were used to study the localization of DARPP-32, a phosphoprotein that is enriched in neurons possessing members of the D1 subfamily of dopamine receptors, in several different types of striatal neurons in the rat basal ganglia. The vast majority (94.1%) of striatonigral projection neurons (the vast majority of which contain substance P), identified by retrograde labeling with fluorogold, were observed to contain DARPP-32. Similarly, the vast majority of striatopallidal projection neurons (87.7%), identified by immunofluorescence labeling for enkephalin (ENK), were found to label for DARPP-32. In contrast, cholinergic and neuropeptide Y-containing striatal interneurons were never observed to contain DARPP-32. These results suggest that essentially all major types of striatal medium spiny projection neurons may possess members of the D1 subfamily of dopamine receptors, but that striatal local circuit neurons do not possess members of the D1 subfamily of receptors.

Calcitonin-gene related peptide is an evolutionarily conserved marker within the amniote thalamo-telencephalic auditory pathway

The distribution of neurons and fibers containing calcitonin-gene-related peptide (CGRP) was mapped in the thalamo-telencephalic auditory pathways of four amniote species, rats, pigeons (Columba livia), caiman (Caiman crocodilus), and turtles (Pseudemys scripta). In colchicine-treated turtles and pigeons, numerous CGRP+ perikarya were observed in the auditory relay nucleus of the thalamus (n. reuniens of reptiles, and n. ovoidalis of birds). In pigeons, these neurons were most abundant in the outer circumference of the nucleus and were not observed without colchicine pretreatment. In the telencephalon of turtles, caiman, and pigeons, CGRP+ fibers were observed within portions of the dorsal ventricular ridge previously shown to receive projections from the auditory thalamus, thus implying that the thalamic CGRP+ neurons observed here in fact project to these telencephalic areas. In colchicine treated rats, numerous CGRP+ perikarya were observed along the ventral margin of the medial geniculate nucleus extending into the posterior intralaminar and peripeduncular nuclei, as well as occasionally within the ventral subdivision of the medial geniculate nucleus. Injections of fluorogold into the auditory cortex combined with immunofluorescence labeling for CGRP revealed that CGRP+ cells in these areas do, in fact, project to the auditory cortices. The present results are interpreted as providing strong support for the theory, advanced previously, that the medial geniculate nucleus of mammals, nucleus ovoidalis of birds, and nucleus reuniens of reptiles contain at least some homologous cell populations. Although the data are consistent with the theory that the telencephalic projection fields are homologous, other interpretations are also consistent with the data presented here. These include the possibility that auditory thalamic projections to the telencephalon arose independently in the lines of evolution leading to mammals and sauropsids.

Ultrastructural single- and double-label immunohistochemical studies of substance P-containing terminals and dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra in pigeons

The vast majority of striatonigral projection neurons in pigeons contain substance P (SP), and the vast majority of SP-containing fibers terminating in the substantia nigra arise from neurons in the striatum. To help clarify the role of striatonigral projection neurons, we conducted electron microscopic single- and double-label immunohistochemical studies of SP+ terminals and/or dopaminergic neurons (labeled with either anti-dopamine, DA, or anti-tyrosine hydroxylase, TH) in pigeons to determine: (1) the synaptic organization of SP+ terminals, (2) the synaptic organization of TH+ perikarya and/or dendrites, and (3) the synaptic relationship between SP+ terminals and TH+ neurons in the substantia nigra. Tissue single-labeled for SP revealed numerous SP+ terminals contacting thin unlabeled dendrites in the substantia nigra, but few SP+ terminals were observed contacting perikarya or large-diameter dendrites. SP+ terminals contained round, densely packed, clear vesicles, and often contained one or more dense-core vesicles. Synaptic junctions between SP+ terminals and their targets were more often symmetric (86%) than asymmetric. In tissue single-labeled for DA, we observed few terminals contacting DA+ perikarya, whereas terminals contacting DA+ dendrites were more abundant. Terminals contacting DA+ structures comprised at least four different morphologically distinct types based on the morphology of the clear synaptic vesicles and the type of synaptic junction. One type of terminal contained round clear vesicles and made symmetric synapses, and thus resembled the predominant type of SP+ terminal. The second type contained round clear vesicles and made asymmetric synapses, the third type contained medium-size pleomorphic clear vesicles and made symmetric synapses, and the fourth type contained small pleomorphic clear vesicles and made symmetric synapses. The presence of contacts between SP+ terminals and dopaminergic dendrites in the substantia nigra was directly demonstrated in tissue double-labeled for SP (by the peroxidase-antiperoxidase procedure, or PAP, with diaminobenzidine) and TH (by either the silver-intensified immunogold procedure or the PAP procedure with benzidine dihydrochloride). SP+ terminals commonly contacted thin TH+ dendrites in the substantia nigra, but few SP+ terminals contacted large-diameter TH+ dendrites or perikarya. Synapses between SP+ terminals and TH+ neurons were always symmetric. TH+ dendrites also were contacted by terminals not labeled for SP, which were more abundant than were SP+ terminals. Non-TH+ neurons were also contacted by both SP+ terminals and non-SP+ terminals.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Neurotransmitter organization of the nucleus of Edinger-Westphal and its projection to the avian ciliary ganglion

Two morphologically distinct types of preganglionic endings are observed in the avian ciliary ganglion: boutonal and cap-like. Boutonal endings synapse on ciliary ganglion neurons (called choroidal neurons) innervating choroidal blood vessels, while cap-like endings synapse on ciliary ganglion neurons (called ciliary neurons) controlling the lens and pupil. Some of both types of preganglionic endings contain the neuropeptides substance P (SP) and/or leucine-enkephalin (LENK). Although both types of preganglionic terminals are also known to be cholinergic, there has been no direct evidence that SP and LENK are found in cholinergic endings in the ciliary ganglion. The present studies in pigeons, which involved the use of single- and double-label immunohistochemical techniques, were undertaken to examine this issue, as well as to (1) determine the relative percentages of the boutonal and cap-like endings that contain SP, LENK, or both SP and LENK; and (2) determine if the two different types of terminals in the ciliary ganglion arise from different subdivisions of the nucleus of Edinger-Westphal (EW). Single- and double-label immunohistochemical studies revealed that all neurons of EW, regardless of whether they contained immunohistochemically detectible amounts of SP or LENK, are cholinergic. In the medial subdivision of EW (EWM), which was found to contain approximately 700 neurons, 20.2% of these neurons were observed to contain both SP and LENK, while 11.6% were observed to contain SP only and 10.7% were observed to contain LENK only. In contrast, in lateral EW (EWL), which was found to contain approximately 500 neurons, 16.2% of the neurons were observed to contain both SP and LENK, while 19.2% of the neurons were observed to contain SP only and 12.6% were observed to contain LENK only. Retrograde-labeling studies involving horseradish peroxidase injections into the ciliary ganglion revealed that EW was the sole source of input to the ciliary ganglion and all, or nearly all, neurons in EW innervate the ciliary ganglion. Immunohistochemical labeling of the ciliary ganglion neurons with an antiserum against choline acetyltransferase revealed that approximately 900 choroidal neurons and approximately 600 ciliary neurons are present in the ganglion, all of which receive cholinergic preganglionic endings. Of the choroidal neurons, 94% receive butonal terminals containing both SP and LENK, while only 2% receive SP+ only boutonal endings and 2% receive LENK+ only butonal endings. Of the ciliary neurons, 25% receive cap-like endings containing both SP and LENK, 30% receive cap-like endings containing only SP and 3% receive cap-like endings containing only LENK.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

The Edinger-Westphal nucleus: sources of input influencing accommodation, pupilloconstriction, and choroidal blood flow

This study used neuroanatomical techniques to investigate sources of afferents to the Edinger-Westphal nucleus (EW) of the pigeon. The EW contains the parasympathetic preganglionic neurons that, by way of the oculomotor nerve, project to the ciliary ganglion (Narayanan and Narayanan, '76; Lyman and Mugnaini, '80). The ciliary ganglion, in turn, innervates the internal musculature of the eye; the ciliary body, the iris sphincter muscle, and the smooth muscle of choroidal blood vessels (Marwitt et al., '71; Pilar and Tuttle, '82). In the bird, the neurons in the ciliary ganglion that innervate the iris sphincter muscle and the ciliary body receive input specifically from cells in the lateral EW (EWl), whereas those that innervate choroidal blood vessels receive input from cells in the medial EW (EWm) (Reiner et al., '83). Thus neurons in the EWl mediate pupilloconstriction and accommodation, whereas neurons in the EWm modulate choroidal blood flow. To study the afferents to EW, injections of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were placed in this nucleus. These injections resulted in labeled cells in the area pretectalis, a retinorecipient pretectal nucleus and the suprachiasmatic nucleus, a retinorecipient hypothalamic nucleus. We have previously identified both these areas as being sources of afferents to EW (Gamlin et al., '82, '84). In addition, these HRP injections into EW resulted in labeled cells in the medial mesencephalic reticular formation (MRF) lateral and ventral to the oculomotor nucleus and in a localized area of the rostral lateral mesencephalic reticular formation (LRF) dorsolateral to nucleus subpretectalis. Injections of tritiated amino acids into the MRF labeled the entire EW, while such injections into the LRF labeled only the lateral EW. Both of these projections were predominantly contralateral. This study has identified the sources of two previously undocumented inputs to the avian EW. Both sources of input, the MRF and rostral LRF, receive afferents from visuomotor areas of the telencephalon and visual structures in the midbrain. The MRF input to EW could have either direct or modulatory influences on pupil diameter, accommodation, and choroidal blood flow. The LRF input to EW could play a role in controlling accommodation and possibly the pupillary near response.

Distribution, laminar location, and morphology of tectal neurons projecting to the isthmo-optic nucleus and the nucleus isthmi, pars parvocellularis in the pigeon (Columba livia) and chick (Gallus domesticus): a retrograde labelling study

Retrograde transport of Phaseolus vulgaris leucoagglutinin (PHA-L), fluorogold, fast blue, rhodamine labelled microspheres, and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was employed to study the distribution, laminar location within the optic tectum, and morphology of tectal cells projecting upon the isthmo-optic nucleus (ION) and the nucleus isthmi, pars parvocellularis (Ipc), in the pigeon and chick. Following injections into the ION, all retrograde markers labelled tecto-ION neurons and their dendrites in the ipsilateral tectum. The cells were located within a relatively narrow band at the border between layers 9 and 10 of the stratum griseum et fibrosum superficiale (SGFS). Retrogradely labelled neuronal somata were different in both dendritic branching and shape; however, tecto-ION neurons generally possessed non-spiny radially oriented and multi-branched dendrites. The apical processes extended into the retino-recipient layers (2-7) of the SGFS and basal dendrites extended into layers 12-14 of the SGFS. Positive neuronal somata were observed throughout the rostro-caudal extent of the optic tectum. The average distance between adjacent tecto-ION neurons varied from one region to another. Specifically, retrogradely labelled cells were more numerous in the caudal, lateral, and ventral tectum, and less numerous at rostro-dorsal levels. Approximately 12,000 tecto-ION neurons were labelled within the ipsilateral optic tectum following either PHA-L or fluorescent dye injections. While the regional distribution of tecto-Ipc neurons was not examined, the morphology indicated that the cells had a single radially oriented dendritic process. Therefore, the apical dendrites are more restricted than those of tecto-ION cells. Moreover, the dendrites were spiny and arborized within layers 3, 5, and 9 of the ipsilateral optic tectum. The axon of tecto-Ipc cells arise from the apical process as a shepherd's crook and descend into the deep layers of the optic tectum. These results indicate that 1) tecto-ION and tecto-Ipc neurons are possibly monosynaptically activated by retinal input, 2) tecto-ION neurons are heterogeneous in morphology, and 3) there is a differential distribution of the tecto-ION neurons throughout the rostro-caudal extent of the optic tectum, suggesting a greater representation of the caudo-ventral portion of the optic tectum within the ION. The discussion primarily concerns the organization of the retino-tecto-ION-retinal circuit in light of the distribution and morphology of tecto-ION neurons within the optic tectum.

Striatonigral projection neurons: a retrograde labeling study of the percentages that contain substance P or enkephalin in pigeons

Two largely separate populations of neuropeptide-containing striatonigral projection neurons have been distinguished in pigeons, one population whose neurons contain substance P (SP) and dynorphin (DYN) and a second population whose neurons contain enkephalin (ENK) (Reiner, '86a; Anderson and Reiner, '90a). In the present study, we investigated the abundance of these two types of neurons relative to all striatonigral projection neurons by combining retrograde labeling by the fluorescent dye fluorogold with immunofluorescence labeling for SP and ENK. Pigeons received large intranigral injections of fluorogold to retrogradely label the striatonigral projection neurons, and several days later they were treated with colchicine (32 hours before transcardial perfusion). Adjacent series of sections through the basal ganglia were labeled for SP and ENK using immunofluorescence techniques. The tissue was examined using fluorescence microscopy and the percentages of retrogradely labeled neurons containing either SP or ENK were quantified. We found that 85-95% of the fluorogold-labeled striatonigral neurons were SP+, whereas only 1-4% were ENK+. Thus the majority of striatonigral projection neurons in pigeons appear to contain SP, whereas a small percentage contain ENK. Only a small percentage of striatonigral neurons did not contain either. Since striatal projection neurons also contain GABA (Reiner, '86b), the present results suggest that a high percentage of striatonigral projection neurons coexpress SP, DYN and GABA, whereas a small fraction coexpress ENK and GABA. The available data are consistent with the conclusion that this is true in reptilian and mammalian species as well.

A comparison of neurotransmitter-specific and neuropeptide-specific neuronal cell types present in the dorsal cortex in turtles with those present in the isocortex in mammals: implications for the evolution of isocortex

Although it seems highly likely that mammalian isocortex evolved from a structure resembling reptilian telencephalic cortex, it has been uncertain if this occurred by the laminar differentiation of three-layered reptilian cortex into six-layered mammalian isocortex without the addition of new cell types or by laminar differentiation with the addition of new cell types. To distinguish between these two possibilities, immunohistochemical techniques were used to study turtles to see if the same major neuronal cell types, as defined by neurotransmitter or neuropeptide content, present in mammalian isocortex are also present in the specific part of reptilian cortex thought to be the forerunner of at least parts of isocortex, namely the dorsal cortex. Neurons containing the following substances are the major transmitter-specific types of neurons known to be present in mammalian isocortex: cholecystokinin-8 (CCK8), vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), acetylcholine, substance P (SP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), somatostatin (SS), LANT6, enkephalin, GABA and glutamate (GLUT). In turtles, only those of the above substances that are found in large numbers of neurons in layers V-VI in mammalian isocortex, irrespective of whether they are also present in layers II-IV (i.e. SP, NPY, SS, LANT6, GABA and GLUT), were present in neurons in dorsal cortex. The neurons containing these substances in dorsal cortex in turtles were generally highly similar in morphology to their counterparts in mammalian isocortex. In contrast, neurons labeled for CCK8, VIP or acetylcholine, which are mainly found in neurons of layers II-IV of mammalian isocortex, were absent or extremely rare in dorsal cortex. The absence or paucity of neurons labeled for these latter substances in dorsal cortex in turtles did not reflect an overall staining failure of the antisera used since the same antisera yielded excellent labeling of neurons, fibers and terminals in many other brain regions in turtles. Thus, dorsal cortex in turtles appears to lack several of the major cell types characteristic of layers II-IV of mammalian isocortex, but possesses a number of the major cell types characteristic of layers V-VI of isocortex. The findings support and extend a previous suggestion by Ebner [1976], based on hodological data, that dorsal cortex in turtles may lack the types of neurons found in the more superficial layers of mammalian isocortex.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Control of choroidal blood flow by the nucleus of Edinger-Westphal in pigeons: a laser Doppler study

Anatomical studies in birds have suggested that choroidal blood flow may be regulated by a circuit involving the following serially-connected components: the retina-the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN)-the medial subdivision of the nucleus of Edinger-Westphal (mEW)-the ciliary ganglion-the choroidal blood vessels. In order to better clarify the role of this circuit, we examined the effects of electrical stimulation of EW on choroidal blood flow in the ipsilateral eye, using laser Doppler velocimetry to monitor choroidal blood flow in the superior pole of the eye. Baseline choroidal blood flow values (144-311.3 mg/min per eye) were found to be comparable to those previously reported in rabbits, cats and primates. Stimulation of EW dramatically increased choroidal blood flow. The increases were current-related and the average maximal increases ranged between 300-700% above baseline values. In contrast, EW stimulation had little or no effect on overall bodily blood flow. All EW stimulation sites were later verified histologically. These results indicate that the SCN-mEW circuit in birds may be involved in mediating increases in choroidal blood flow, possibly in response to the levels of retinal illumination. Such adaptive neural regulation of choroidal blood flow may play an important role in mitigating the potentially deleterious effects of light on the retina.

Immunocytochemical localization of estrogen and progesterone receptor and prognosis in human primary breast cancer

An immunocytochemical assay (ICA) for the measurement of estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PgR) has been evaluated in 426 human primary breast carcinomas. For estrogen receptor determination ER ICA was used. PgR ICA was performed using the monoclonal antibody KD 68. Assay results for progesterone receptor immunocytochemistry were in agreement (P less than 0.0001) with those of biochemical determination in 74%. Progesterone receptor positivity determined with a semiquantified approach based on intensity and heterogeneity of immunocytochemical staining correlated significantly with biochemically determined progesterone receptor levels (P = 0.0001). Survival data showed a significantly better overall survival for patients with either ER ICA- or PgR ICA-positive carcinomas (ER ICA, P less than 0.00001; PgR ICA, P = 0.004). Patients with both negative ER ICA and PgR ICA showed a poorer prognosis than patients with only one negative receptor. In ER ICA- and PgR ICA-positive carcinomas a trend could be found that patients whose carcinomas contained high numbers of receptor-positive tumor cells had a better survival. This study demonstrates that ER ICA and PgR ICA are strong prognostic indicators and that the proportion of steroid hormone receptor-positive tumor cells seems to be of clinical importance.

Distribution and relative abundance of neurons in the pigeon forebrain containing somatostatin, neuropeptide Y, or both

Immunohistochemical studies in several mammalian species and in red-eared turtles have shown that somatostatin (SS) and neuropeptide Y (NPY) co-occur in a substantial proportion of the telencephalic neurons containing either. To explore further the possibility that telencephalic neurons co-containing SS and NPY may be evolutionarily conserved among amniotes, we determined the distribution and co-occurrence of SS and NPY in forebrain neurons in pigeons. Single-label immunohistochemical studies revealed the presence of overlapping populations of SS+ neurons and NPY+ neurons in most of the major subdivisions of the telencephalon. Double-label immunofluorescence studies revealed that in subdivisions of the telencephalon that are comparable to mammalian cortex (i.e., those dorsal and lateral to the basal ganglia), the vast majority of NPY+ neurons were also SS+, whereas a major and regionally variable percentage of the SS+ neurons were not NPY+. In contrast, within the basal telencephalon (including the basal ganglia and several other structures) neurons labeled only for NPY or only SS were more abundant than those containing both neuropeptides. Outside the telencephalon, the only forebrain cell group containing neurons in which SS and NPY were co-localized was in the lateral hypothalamus. A series of double- and triple-label immunohistochemical studies was undertaken to determine the extent of co-occurrence of SS and NPY in striatal neurons and the relationship of these neurons to striatal neurons containing other neuropeptides. In addition, immunohistochemical single- and double-label techniques were employed in conjunction with retrograde-labeling by fluorogold to determine the projections of SS+ and NPY+ striatal neurons. The results indicate that: 1) a population of striatal interneurons containing both SS and NPY exists in pigeons and constitutes approximately the same fraction of all striatal neurons as reported in mammals, 2) neurons containing NPY (but not SS) form a second, larger population of striatal interneurons, 3) neurons containing SS (but not NPY) form a third population of striatal interneurons that is approximately half as abundant as the NPY+ interneuron population, and 4) one-third of the substance P-containing striatonigral projection neurons also contain SS. The existence in pigeons of a major population of neurons containing both SS and NPY throughout the telencephalon, the existence of a population of neurons containing only SS in cortex-equivalent parts of the telencephalon, and the existence of a population of interneurons containing only NPY in the striatum is consistent with findings in mammals and turtles.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

The patterns of neurotransmitter and neuropeptide co-occurrence among striatal projection neurons: conclusions based on recent findings

The neurotransmitter organization of striatal projection neurons appears to be less complex than once thought. Only 4 major evolutionarily conserved populations appear to be present. The neurons of two of these populations contain SP, DYN and GABA, with one of these two populations consisting of striatonigral projection neurons and the other of striatopallidal projection neurons. The two additional major populations of striatal projection neurons consist of striatopallidal and striato-nigral neurons that both contain both ENK and GABA. Although these conclusions greatly simplify the understanding of the organization of striatal projection neurons by suggesting that only a few major populations are present, these conclusions complicate understanding of neurotransmission between these neurons and their target areas by suggesting that each neuron utilizes multiple neuroactive substances to influence target neurons. Further studies will therefore be required to explore the mechanisms of neurotransmission by which striatal neurons communicate with their target areas.

Evidence for retinal pathology following interruption of neural regulation of choroidal blood flow: Müller cells express GFAP following lesions of the nucleus of Edinger-Westphal in pigeons

Choroidal blood flow in pigeons is regulated by the medial part of the nucleus of Edinger-Westphal (EW) via the ipsilateral ciliary ganglion. Interruption of this circuit by unilateral lesions of EW results in pathological modifications in the morphology of retinal photoreceptors in the ipsilateral eye in pigeons housed under 12hr light (400 lux)/12hr dark conditions. In the present study, we examined the effects of unilateral EW lesions on glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression by retinal Müller cells in pigeons housed under the same lighting conditions. Since Müller cells in the retina of land vertebrates express increased GFAP during conditions of retinal pathology or stress (e.g. inflammation or hypoxia), this study would enable us to further evaluate the effects of disruption in the neural regulation of choroidal blood flow on the retina. We found that following EW lesions, retinal Müller cells expressed GFAP, with the precise intracellular location of the GFAP dependent on the amount of time elapsed following the lesion. One week after the EW lesions, GFAP labelling was restricted to the Müller cell endfeet in the nerve fiber layer and ganglion cell layer. By two-three weeks, the labelling had extended outward (or sclerad) into the portions of the Müller cells spanning the inner plexiform layer. Finally, by six weeks post-lesion, the entire extent of the Müller cell from the nerve fiber layer to the outer limiting membrane contained GFAP. No GFAP immunoreactivity in Müller cells was observed in the eyes contralateral to the EW lesions or in eyes in which the pupil had been fixed and dilated by lesions of the pretectal region. Our results suggest that the retina is in a state of physiological stress following interruption of the neural regulation of choroidal blood flow by EW lesions. Although the precise mechanisms by which altered choroidal blood flow regulation affects Müller cell GFAP production require elucidation, the results nonetheless highlight the importance of intact neural regulation of choroidal blood flow for retinal health.

Extensive co-occurrence of substance P and dynorphin in striatal projection neurons: an evolutionarily conserved feature of basal ganglia organization

A number of different neuroactive substances have been found in striatal projection neurons and in fibers and terminals in their target areas, including substance P (SP), enkephalin (ENK), and dynorphin (DYN). In a preliminary report on birds and reptiles, we have suggested that SP and DYN are to a large extent found in the same striatal projection neurons and that ENK is found in a separate population of striatal projection neurons. In the present study, we have examined this issue in more detail in pigeons and turtles. Further, we have also explored this issue in rats to determine whether this is a phylogenetically conserved feature of basal ganglia organization. Simultaneous immunofluorescence double-labeling procedures were employed to explore the colocalization of SP and DYN, SP and ENK, and ENK and DYN in striatal neurons and in striatal, nigral, and pallidal fibers in pigeons, turtles, and rats. To guard against possible cross-reactivity of DYN and ENK antisera with each others' antigens, separate double-label studies were carried out with several different antisera that were specific for DYN peptides (e.g., dynorphin A 1-17, dynorphin B, leumorphin) or ENK peptides (leucine-enkephalin, metenkephalin-arg6-gly7-leu8, methionine-enkephalin-arg6-phe7). The results showed that SP and DYN co-occur extensively in specific populations of striatal projection neurons, whereas ENK typically is present in different populations of striatal projection neurons. In pigeons, 95-99% of all striatal neurons containing DYN were found to contain SP and vice versa. In contrast, only 1-3% of the SP+ striatal neurons and no DYN neurons contained ENK. Similarly, in turtles, greater than 75% of the SP+ neurons were DYN+ and vice versa, whereas ENK was observed in fewer than 5% of the SP+ neurons and 2% of the DYN+ neurons. Finally, in rats, more than 70% of the SP+ neurons contained DYN and vice versa, but ENK was found in only 5% of the SP+ neurons and in none of the DYN+ perikarya. Fiber double-labeling in the striatum and its target areas (the pallidum and substantia nigra) was also consonant with these observations in pigeons, turtles, and rats. These results, in conjunction with studies in cats by M.-J. Besson, A.M. Graybiel, and B. Quinn (1986; Soc Neurosci. Abs. 12:876) strongly indicate that the co-occurrence of SP and DYN in large numbers of striatonigral and striatopallidal projection neurons in a phylogenetically widespread, and therefore evolutionarily conserved, feature of basal ganglia organization.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Evaluation of ibuprofen dimethyl aminoethanol octyl bromide and related active metabolites in biological samples

AF 150 is ibuprofen dimethyl aminoethanol octyl bromide, endowed with antibacterial and antiinflammatory activities. An indirect HPLC analytical method for AF 150 with UV detection, to be used for pharmacokinetic studies, has been validated in terms of linearity, reproducibility, specificity and sensitivity. Using this method the bioavailability of AF 150 and its active metabolite ibuprofen was investigated following parenteral administration and topical application.

Striatal and nigral neuron subpopulations in rigid Huntington's disease: implications for the functional anatomy of chorea and rigidity-akinesia

Neuropeptide immunohistochemistry was used to test several hypotheses of the anatomical bases of chorea and rigidity-akinesia. To test the hypothesis that elevated concentration of striatal somatostatin causes chorea, we visually compared the density of striatal neurons containing somatostatin and neuropeptide Y in brains affected by choreic or rigid-akinetic Huntington's disease (HD). The density of these neurons was elevated in both rigid-akinetic and choreic HD specimens with an apparently normal total number of these neurons, indicating that elevated somatostatin concentration, by itself, does not lead to chorea. We tested the hypothesis that rigid-akinetic HD results from deficient dopaminergic nigrostriatal neurotransmission by examining tyrosine hydroxylase-immunoreactive (TH-IR) neurons in the substantia nigra. In rigid-akinetic HD brains, there was no obvious reduction of nigral TH-IR neurons, indicating that rigid-akinetic HD is probably not due to loss of nigral dopaminergic neurons. Finally, we also examined the status of striatal projection neurons and found near total loss of all striatal neurons projecting to the lateral globus pallidus, medial globus pallidus, and substantia nigra in brains affected by rigid-akinetic HD in contrast to the preservation of neurons projecting to the medial globus pallidus in choreic HD. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that chorea results from preferential loss of striatal neurons projecting to the lateral globus pallidus and that rigid-akinetic HD is a consequence of the additional loss of striatal neurons projecting to the medial segment of the pallidum.

[Breast cancer in the male. A long-term follow-up study of 55 patients]

Between 1964 and 1988, 55 male patients were treated for breast cancer. Fifty-one patients were treated by radical mastectomy; only four patients underwent a simple mastectomy. Nineteen cases received postoperative radiotherapy, eleven cases chemotherapy, six cases adjuvant hormonal therapy, and one patient was submitted to orchiectomy. The five-year survival rate for tumors with nodal metastases was 37%, as compared with 57% for patients with negative nodes.

HER-2 oncogene amplification and overall survival of breast carcinoma patients

DNA was extracted from tumour samples of 77 patients with primary breast carcinoma and HER-2 proto-oncogene amplification was assessed. Prognostic indices such as number of positive lymph nodes, tumour size and histological grading were strongly associated with overall survival. No statistically significant correlation between amplification of HER-2 and overall survival was observed. In addition, prognostic indices, HER-2 amplification and disease-free interval was not correlated. Analysis of HER-2 amplification alone is not a useful guide in the management of patients with mammary carcinoma.

Studies of a monoclonal antibody to skeletal keratan sulphate. Importance of antibody valency

A mouse monoclonal antibody (AN9P1) to keratan sulphate is described. In a competitive-inhibition solution-phase radioimmunoassay employing 125I-labelled intact proteoglycan, it reacts preferentially with keratan sulphate bound to the core protein of adult human articular-cartilage proteoglycan and to a much lesser degree with keratan sulphate purified from this proteoglycan. Proteolytic cleavage of the proteoglycan by pepsin and trypsin has little effect on antibody binding, but treatment with papain decreases binding considerably and more than does treatment with keratanase. An even greater decrease in binding is observed after treatment with alkaline borohydride. A comparison of binding of antibody AN9P1 with that of another previously described monoclonal antibody, 1/20/5-D-4, to keratan sulphate [Caterson, Christner & Baker (1983) J. Biol. Chem. 258, 8848-8854] revealed similar binding characteristics, both showing much diminished binding after papain digestion of proteoglycan and even less with purified skeletal keratan sulphate. Removal of the Fc piece of antibody AN9P1 had no significant effect on the differential binding of divalent F(ab')2 fragment to proteoglycan, to papain-digested proteoglycan and to keratan sulphate, although there was a small decrease in binding to papain-digested proteoglycan. Conversion of the antibody into univalent Fab fragment with removal of the Fc piece resulted in diminished binding to proteoglycan, compared with that observed with IgG, and in enhanced binding to free keratan sulphate and to papain-digested proteoglycan. These results suggest that close proximity of keratan sulphate chains on the core protein of proteoglycans favours preferential reactivity of bivalent antibody with these species through cross-bridging of chains by antibody. Conversely, much decreased binding to keratan sulphate on proteoglycan core-protein fragments and to free keratan sulphate results from a lack of close proximity of keratan sulphate. By using univalent Fab fragment in these assays these differences in binding are minimized by preventing cross-bridging and thereby enhancing detection of smaller fragments without sacrificing too much sensitivity of detection of larger proteoglycan species. The persistent preferential binding of Fab fragment to proteoglycan is probably in part the result of the increased epitope density in the intact molecule compared with keratan sulphate in a more disperse form.

Distribution of mu, delta, and kappa opiate receptor types in the forebrain and midbrain of pigeons

Ligands that are highly specific for the mu, delta, and kappa opiate receptor binding sites in mammalian brains have been identified and used to map the distribution of these receptor types in the brains of various mammalian species. In the present study, the selectivity and binding characteristics in the pigeon brain of three such ligands were examined by in vitro receptor binding techniques and found to be similar to those reported in previous studies on mammalian species. These ligands were then used in conjunction with autoradiographic receptor binding techniques to study the distribution of mu, delta, and kappa opiate receptor binding sites in the forebrain and midbrain of pigeons. The autoradiographic results indicated that the three opiate receptor types showed similar but not identical distributions. For example, mu, delta, and kappa receptors were all abundant within several parts of the cortical-equivalent region of the telencephalon, particularly the hyperstriatum ventrale and the medial neostriatum. In contrast, in other parts of the cortical-equivalent region of the avian telencephalon, such as the dorsal archistriatum and caudal neostriatum, only kappa receptors appeared to be abundant. Within the basal ganglia, all three types of opiate receptors were abundant in the striatum and low in the pallidum. Within the diencephalon, kappa and delta binding was high in the dorsal and dorsomedial thalamic nuclei, but the levels of all three receptor types were generally low in the specific sensory relay nuclei of the thalamus. Kappa binding and delta binding were high, but mu was low in the hypothalamus. Within the midbrain, all three receptor types were abundant in both the superficial and deep tectal layers, in periventricular areas, and in the tegmental dopaminergic cell groups. In many cases, the distribution of opiate receptors in the pigeon forebrain generally showed considerable overlap with the distribution of opioid peptide-containing fiber systems (for example, in the striatal portion of the basal ganglia), but there were some clear examples of receptor-ligand mismatch. For example, although all three receptor types are very abundant in the hyperstriatum ventrale, opioid peptide-containing fibers are sparse in this region. Conversely, within the pallidal portion of the basal ganglia, opioid peptide-containing fibers are abundant, but the levels of opiate receptors appear to be considerably lower than would be expected. Thus, receptor-ligand mismatches are not restricted to the mammalian brain, since they are a prominent feature of the organization of the brain opiate systems in pigeons.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Ki-67 immunoreactivity in breast carcinomas in relation to transferrin receptor expression, estrogen receptor status and morphological criteria. An immunohistochemical study

The number of proliferating cells was determined by Ki-67 antibody in 107 primary breast carcinomas. These results were compared with transferrin receptor (TrfR) expression, estrogen receptor (ER) status, histologic type, tumor grade, size and axillary lymph node status. The percentage of Ki-67-positive cells ranged from 0.9 to 26.4%. The proportion of Ki-67-positive cells was highest in medullary carcinomas. Immunoreactivity of Ki-67 in relation to TrfR expression showed significant correlation (p = 0.0001). An inverse relationship between ER status and Ki-67 positivity existed (p = 0.0001). 88 cases were subjected to histologic grading. There was a significant relationship showing an increase of Ki-67 immunoreactivity with decrease of tumor differentiation (p = 0.0001). The distribution of Ki-67 reactivity in relation to tumor size and nodal status of the axilla revealed positive correlations (p = 0.02; p less than 0.05). In conclusion, the use of Ki-67 monoclonal antibody as a marker for cell proliferation represents a method to get kinetic data inhering prognostic value.

High-performance liquid chromatographic evaluation of salicyloyl pyridixol and systemic metabolites in biological samples

An high-performance liquid chromatographic analytical method, which allows quantitative evaluation of both salicyloyl pyridixol and its metabolite salicylic acid, is reported. This method has demonstrated to possess the required specifications in terms of linearity, sensitivity, extraction recovery, reproducibility and specificity for pharmacokinetic investigations in both human subjects and experimental animals. The results obtained from an investigation on the rat are briefly discussed.

Medullary thyroid carcinomas express chromogranin A and a novel neuroendocrine protein recognized by monoclonal antibody HISL-19

PURPOSE AND METHODS

A number of endocrine peptides and proteins are expressed by medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC). The expression of two newly appreciated neuroendocrine tumor markers, chromogranin A (CgA) and the endocrine antigen defined by monoclonal antibody HISL-19, was determined in 14 MTCs by immunohistology to evaluate the clinical utility of these markers in the diagnosis of MTC. Papillary, follicular, and undifferentiated thyroid tumors were also evaluated along with an MTC cell line. The same tissues were evaluated with antibodies to human calcitonin.

RESULTS

All human calcitonin antibodies were found to react with the MTCs. In addition, all MTCs were reactive for CgA and the antigen detected by antibody HISL-19. CgA was generally present in the human calcitonin-containing cells, whereas the HISL-19 antigen had a more distinctive distribution. The other thyroid tumors failed to show reactivity with any of the three antibodies.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate that, in addition to human calcitonin, MTCs commonly express CgA and the antigen defined by antibody HISL-19. Our observations thus add to the repertoire of endocrine substances produced by MTC. These studies also demonstrate the clinical value of immunohistologic procedures for two novel antigens in distinguishing MTCs from other thyroid tumors.

Immunohistochemical study of the telencephalon of the spiny dogfish, Squalus acanthias

The paucity of experimental data and the differences in telencephalic organization between sharks and other jawed vertebrates have complicated telencephalic comparisons. The distribution of neuropeptides has been extremely useful in recognizing and comparing major subdivisions of the telencephalon among vertebrates. Immunohistochemical techniques were therefore used to study the distribution of substance P (SP), leucin-enkephalin (LENK), and serotonin (5HT), as well as tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), an indicator of catecholamines, in the telencephalon of the spiny dogfish. The distribution of SP and LENK provides a clear distinction between pallial and subpallial portions of the telencephalon. Two regions of the ventrolateral telencephalon, area superficialis basalis and area periventricularis ventrolateralis, exhibit histochemical similarities to the pallidal and striatal subdivisions, respectively, of the basal ganglia in amniotes. Lower densities of LENK+ and SP+ perikarya and fibers occur in the medial pallium and the pars centralis of the dorsal pallium. Similar histochemical traits characterize the sensory thalamorecipient telencephalic structures in amniotes. The lateral pallium in dogfishes is distinguished by the presence of large numbers of TH+ neurons with radially oriented processes. The presence of these distinctive cells also in the medial wall of the rostral telencephalon suggests that the lateral pallium has a medial extension that is situated ventral to the medial pallium. Neurons containing TH were widely distributed in the telencephalon of spiny dogfish and were particularly abundant in the dorsal pallium, olfactory pallium, and area superficialis basalis. It is currently unclear whether these TH+ telencephalic neurons are, in fact, catecholaminergic or merely contain a TH-like substance unrelated to catecholamine synthesis.

Differential loss of striatal projection neurons in Huntington disease

Huntington disease (HD) is characterized by the loss of striatal projection neurons, which constitute the vast majority of striatal neurons. To determine whether there is differential loss among different populations of striatal projection neurons, the integrity of the axon terminal plexuses arising from the different populations of substance P-containing and enkephalin-containing striatal projection neurons was studied in striatal target areas by immunohistochemistry. Analysis of 17 HD specimens indicated that in early and middle stages of HD, enkephalin-containing neurons projecting to the external segment of the globus pallidus were much more affected than substance P-containing neurons projecting to the internal pallidal segment. Furthermore, substance P-containing neurons projecting to the substantia nigra pars reticulata were more affected than those projecting to the substantia nigra pars compacta. At the most advanced stages of the disease, projections to all striatal target areas were depleted, with the exception of some apparent sparing of the striatal projection to the substantia nigra pars compacta. These findings may explain some of the clinical manifestations and pharmacology of HD. They also may aid in identifying the neural defect underlying HD and provide additional data with which to evaluate current models of HD pathogenesis.

[Androgen receptors in primary breast carcinoma. Relation to prognostic factors in comparison with estrogen and progesterone receptors]

Androgen receptor content was correlated with various prognostic factors in 274 patients with breast cancer. Receptor content was determined by the dextran-coated charcoal method (DCC). No direct relationship was found between androgen receptor content and age of patient, menstruation status, TN status and number of affected lymph nodes. But in 232 patients in whom tumour differentiation could be determined, there was a highly significant relationship between it and androgen receptor content (P less than 0.01). Similar correlations were found also between these prognostic factors and oestrogen or progesterone receptors. The percentage distribution of tumours of different degrees of differentiation was independent of the kind of demonstrable steroid-hormone receptor. However, the frequency of highly differentiated tumours rose with the number of different receptors that were determined. Thus steroid-hormone receptors can be considered as markers for differentiation. It seems possible that the additional determination of androgen receptors allows for a more exact selection of patients who should receive hormonal treatment.

Prognostic significance of immunohistochemical parameters in breast carcinomas

136 breast carcinomas were investigated immunohistochemically for alpha-lactalbumin (ALA), lactoferrin (Lfr), human milk fat globule membrane antigen (HMFG-2), transferrin receptor (TrfR), Ki-67 and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). The relationships of pathologic features and steroid receptor status previously shown to be of prognostic significance and the immunohistochemical parameters were examined. It was found that estrogen receptor (ER) was inverse related to TrfR, Ki-67 and EGFR whereas progesterone receptor (PgR) was inverse correlated to Ki-67 solely. Tumor grading revealed significant correlations between TrfR, Ki-67 and HMFG-2 (inverse correlation). Tumor diameter showed correlation between Ki-67 solely. Moreover there were significant relationships between lymphoid infiltration and TrfR, Ki-67 and HMFG-2 (inverse correlation). The comparison of the immunohistochemical parameters showed correlations between Ki-67 and TrfR, Ki-67 and HMFG-2 (inverse correlation) as well as HMFG-2 and ALA. Therefore it is suggested that functional and tumor kinetic properties determined by HMFG-2, Ki-67 and TrfR may be an additional indicator with prognostic significance. On the other hand immunoreactivities of ALA in conjunction with HMFG-2 possibly indicates a subpopulation of breast carcinomas that may have to be investigated further. Moreover these results showed that lymphoid infiltration was correlated with Ki-67 reactivity as well as TrfR expression.