Maskin is a CPEB-associated factor that transiently interacts with elF-4E

In Xenopus, the CPE is a bifunctional 3' UTR sequence that maintains maternal mRNA in a dormant state in oocytes and activates polyadenylation-induced translation during oocyte maturation. Here, we report that CPEB, which binds the CPE and stimulates polyadenylation, interacts with a new factor we term maskin. Maskin contains a peptide sequence that is conserved among elF-4E-binding proteins. Affinity chromatography demonstrates that CPEB, maskin, and elF-4E reside in a complex in oocytes, and yeast two-hybrid analyses indicate that CPEB and maskin bind directly, as do maskin and elF-4E. While CPEB and maskin remain together during oocyte maturation, the maskin-elF-4E interaction is substantially reduced. The dissolution of this complex may result in the binding of elF-4E to elF-4G and the translational activation of CPE-containing mRNAs.

Ethanol-altered liver-associated T cells mediate liver injury in rats administered Concanavalin A (Con A) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS)

BACKGROUND

Recent work from our laboratory implicates T cells in the pathogenesis of alcoholic liver disease. We have studied the role of liver-associated T cells in acute hepatitis produced in control rats administered Concanavalin A (Con A) after adoptive transfer of T cells from alcohol-consuming animals.

METHODS

Liver-associated T cells from ethanol-consuming rats were transferred via tail vein to nonethanol-consuming rats. They then received Con A (20 mg/kg body weight) intravenously. This produced a severe hepatitis. Serum was collected for the assay of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and cytokines.

RESULTS

Hepatic necrosis was accompanied by an increase in plasma levels of ALT, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. These increases correlated with increased production of interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha in culture of liver-associated T cells stimulated or unstimulated with Con A. Immunohistology staining showed increased infiltration of inflammatory cells comprised of neutrophils and mononuclear cells, which included greater numbers of CD4+ T cells in the portal tract areas and around the central vein. Focal and lobular necrosis was seen with inflammatory cells in the necrotic area. Hepatocytes isolated from the liver showed increased apoptosis compared with rats that received liver-associated T cells from nonethanol-consuming rats. Injection of endotoxin LPS, in the same model, was associated with less hepatocyte injury indicating a distinct role for T cells as opposed to Kupffer cells in this model of liver disease.

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic ethanol consumption induces a lesion in a pool of liver-associated T cells which can mediate liver injury after polyclonal mitogen activation.

Studies on treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia with arsenic trioxide: remission induction, follow-up, and molecular monitoring in 11 newly diagnosed and 47 relapsed acute promyelocytic leukemia patients

Fifty-eight acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) patients (11 newly diagnosed and 47 relapsed) were studied for arsenic trioxide (As2O3) treatment. Clinical complete remission (CR) was obtained in 8 of 11 (72.7%) newly diagnosed cases. However, As2O3 treatment resulted in hepatic toxicity in 7 cases including 2 deaths, in contrast to the mild liver dysfunction in one third of the relapsed patients. Forty of forty-seven (85.1%) relapsed patients achieved CR. Two of three nonresponders showed clonal evolution at relapse, with disappearance of t(15;17) and PML-RARalpha fusion gene in 1 and shift to a dominant AML-1-ETO population in another, suggesting a correlation between PML-RARalpha expression and therapeutic response. In a follow-up of 33 relapsed cases over 7 to 48 months, the estimated disease-free survival (DFS) rates for 1 and 2 years were 63.6% and 41.6%, respectively, and the actual median DFS was 17 months. Patients with white blood cell (WBC) count below 10 x 10(9)/L at relapse had better survival than those with WBC count over 10 x 10(9)/L (P =.038). The duration of As2O3-induced CR was related to postremission therapy, because there was only 2 of 11 relapses in patients treated with As2O3 combined with chemotherapy, compared with 12 of 18 relapses with As2O3 alone (P =.01). Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis in both newly diagnosed and relapsed groups showed long-term use of As2O3 could lead to a molecular remission in some patients. We thus recommend that ATRA be used as first choice for remission induction in newly diagnosed APL cases, whereas As2O3 can be either used as a rescue for relapsed cases or included into multidrug consolidation/maintenance clinical trials.

[Dynamic monitoring of serum soluble HLA class I antigens in renal transplant recipients]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the relations between serum soluble HLA class I antigens (sHLA-I) and the period of acute rejection and infection in renal transplant recipients.

METHODS

We measured the serum levels of sHLA-I in 36 renal transplant recipients with ELISA dynamically.

RESULTS

The serum sHAL-I levels were higher in uremia patients than in normal controls [(2.94 +/- 0.34) microg/L vs. (0.76 +/- 0.33) microg/L, P < 0.05]. After renal transplantation, the serum sHLA-I levels decreased significantly in stable patients [(0.63 +/- 0.33) microg/L], but increased significantly 3 days before acute rejection and 5 or 7 days after infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The serum sHLA-I levels can be used as a parameter for monitoring acute rejection and infection in renal transplantation.

Roles of glycoproteins and oligosaccharides found in human vaginal fluid in bacterial adherence

Adherence of type 1-piliated Escherichia coli to carbohydrate structures of vaginal mucosa plays a major role in the pathogenesis of ascending urinary tract infections in women. Colonization of the vaginal introitus is influenced by interactions between pathogens, vaginal fluid, and vaginal epithelium. In this study, the type and amount of carbohydrates and glycoproteins present in vaginal fluid were determined. Free and protein-bound oligosaccharides in vaginal fluid specimens were analyzed by fluorophore-assisted carbohydrate electrophoresis (FACE) and high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). Two-dimensional electrophoretic separations of vaginal fluid glycoproteins were performed together with bacterial overlay assays. The results of FACE showed that the majority of the oligosaccharides are in the free state and the bound oligosaccharides are undetectable. HPLC analysis of free sugars revealed glucose as the major sugar (3.3 +/- 0.3 mM), and the concentrations of mannose and glucosamine were 0.065 +/- 0.04 and 0.02 +/- 0.001 mM, respectively. Radiolabeled E. coli bound three vaginal fluid glycoproteins with the following molecular masses and pIs: 82 kDa and pI 5.5, 55 kDa and pI 4.5, and 55 kDa and pI 6.5. The binding was inhibited by mannose and by deglycosylation of the proteins prior to the overlay assay. One of these putative receptors was identified to be the heavy chain of secretory IgA (S-IgA). These data suggest that the free mannose in the fluid is less than that required to affect E. coli-epithelial cell binding interactions and that S-IgA may bind E. coli in the vaginal introitus.

Follow-up study on a susceptibility locus for schizophrenia on chromosome 6q

Evidence for suggestive linkage to schizophrenia with chromosome 6q markers was previously reported from a two-stage approach. Using nonparametric affected sib pairs (ASP) methods, nominal p-values of 0.00018 and 0.00095 were obtained in the screening (81 ASPs; 63 independent) and the replication (109 ASPs; 87 independent) data sets, respectively. Here, we report a follow-up study of this 50cM 6q region using 12 microsatellite markers to test for linkage to schizophrenia. We increased the replication sample size by adding an independent sample of 43 multiplex pedigrees (66 ASPs; 54 independent). Pairwise and multipoint nonparametric linkage analyses conducted in this third data set showed evidence consistent with excess sharing in this 6q region, though the statistical level is weaker (p=0.013). When combining both replication data sets (total of 141 independent ASPs), an overall nominal p-value=0.000014 (LOD=3. 82) was obtained. The sibling recurrence risk (lambdas) attributed to this putative 6q susceptibility locus is estimated to be 1.92. The linkage region could not be narrowed down since LOD score values greater than three were observed within a 13cM region. The length of this region was only slightly reduced (12cM) when using the total sample of independent ASPs (204) obtained from all three data sets. This suggests that very large sample sizes may be needed to narrow down this region by ASP linkage methods. Study of the etiological candidate genes in this region is ongoing.

[Effects of long-term morphine exposure on the cAMP system and c-Fos phosphorylation in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells]

OBJECTIVE

To further understand the effects of long-term morphine exposure on the cAMP system and c-Fos phosphorylation in differentiated SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells.

METHODS

Cellular changes of cAMP, PKA and c-Fos were detected by protein competitive conjunction, enzyme activity and isotope incorporation methods respectively.

RESULTS

(1) Long-term exposure (2 min-36 h) to morphine (100 mumol/L) could induce the biphasic changes in cAMP contents. Treament for 2 min to 1 h, morphine caused rapid and siginificant decrease of the cAMP level and then gradully recovered and apparently increased at 36 h. At that time, naloxone added to the incubation media caused an overshoot of cellular cAMP; (2) Long-term exposure to morphine could also induce the biphasic changes in cytosolic PKA activity. This is consistent with the changes of cAMP during the chronic treatment of cells with morphine. But no changes were observed in membrane PKA activity; (3) In morphine dependent-like cells decreased c-Fos phosphorylation level was observed. PKA inhibitor could significantly inhibit this change; (4) Concomitant administration of naloxone could block the changes in PKA activity and c-Fos phosphorylation described above.

CONCLUSIONS

The up-regulation of cAMP system in differentiated SH-SY5Y cells may be involved in the development of morphine dependent and in morphine dependent-like SH-SY5Y cells and PKA was suggested to regulate c-Fos dephosphorylation through activating phosphatase and then activate some genes transcription, which might be one of the important mechanism regardingas cellular adaptive responses underlying dependence to opioid drugs.

Alcoholic hepatitis as a T-cell mediated disorder: an hypothesis

BACKGROUND

The mechanism by which alcohol induces alcoholic hepatitis, the precursor lesion for cirrhosis, has never been elucidated. In particular, direct toxicity has not been proven. This article reviews the hypothesis that a primary target of chronic alcohol ingestion is the T lymphocyte. The lesion in the T lymphocyte is characterized by reduced baseline secretion of cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-alpha; although characterized by an exaggerated release of cytokines when stimulated by polyclonal activators such as endotoxin. High concentrations of cytokines, especially tumor necrosis factor-alpha, within the liver induce necrosis/apoptosis of hepatocytes.

METHODS

Data supporting this hypothesis in rodent models are reviewed.

CONCLUSION

A strategic approach for testing this concept in man is defined.

[Evidence for involvement of NO/NOS-cGMP signal system in morphine dependence]

The present study was undertaken to observe changes in cGMP contents, calcium-dependent and non-calcium-dependent NOS activities in brain regions isolated from morphine-dependent mice as well as the effect of NOS inhibitor (L-NMMA) on the development of this dependence. It was found that (1) cGMP contents in cerebellum, striatum, hippocampus and cerebral cortex were significantly decreased. (2) Calcium-dependent NOS activity was noticeably increased in striatum and cerebral cortex, which was inhibited by PKA inhibitor. No similar changes were found in cerebellum and hippocampus. Changes of non-calcium-dependent NOS activity did not occur in morphine-dependent mice brain. (3) In the striatum and cerebral cortex of morphine-dependent mice, the level of 150 kD protein phosphorylation in vitro was noticeably decreased, which was inhibited by IP20 (PKA inhibitor). (4) NOS inhibitor injected (icv) 15 min prior to daily morphine injection could prevent the development of morphine dependence. (5) All the changes above were not observed in mice treated with naloxone 30 min prior to daily morphine injection. Our data suggest that the reduction of cGMP contents and the increase of calcium-dependent NOS activity in striatum and cerebral cortex isolated from morphine-dependent mice may be mediated by opioid receptors and involved in the development of morphine-dependence. Why the increase of NOS activity was in association with the reduction of cGMP contents remains to be answered and it implies that the effect of NO/NOS involved in morphine-dependence may be produced through other mechanisms other than those producing cGMP signal. NOS phosphorylation in some other brain regions, which may be regulated by PKA, probably contributes to the increase of NOS activity in morphine-dependent mice.

Chromosomal aberrations during progression of chronic myeloid leukemia identified by cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic tools: implication of 1q12-21

To study the genomic abnormality underlying the acute transformation of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), 15 CML patients in blast crisis (BC), 3 in accelerated phase (AP), and 20 in chronic phase (CP) were analyzed by conventional cytogenetics, comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), and dual-color chromosomal painting. Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome was identified in every case studied. Only 5 among 20 CP patients had additional abnormalities while 13 of 18 patients with disease progression (BC + AP) showed extra numerical and/or structural chromosomal aberrations. Cytogenetically, the most common chromosome gains during BC and AP were double or triple Ph chromosomes (5 of 14 cases) and trisomy 8 (5 of 14 cases). Trisomies 7 and 17 (1 of 14 cases each) were also observed. CGH analysis detected genetic imbalances in eight cases. Gains of chromosome 20 (3 cases) and 17q (2 cases) were observed, respectively. The recurrent chromosome loss was the deletion of the short arm of chromosome 17, seen in one case with i(17)(q10) and one case with an unbalanced translocation (1;17). In one case, a very complex chromosomal rearrangement, del(3),del(6),der(6)t(17;3;6),der(17)t(6;17), was seen. A novel finding of this work is the involvement of chromosome 1(q12-21qter) in CML disease progression. Overrepresentation of 1(q12-21qter) region was detected by CGH in one case which had a derivative chromosome 17. This abnormal chromosome was later confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) painting to be a fusion between chromosome 1 and 17 to form the der(17)t(1;17) (q12-21;p11). Two other cases showed the same region being involved in translocations, t(1;10)(q12-21;q26) and t(1;11)(q12-21;p15). It is possible that one or more genes residing on chromosome 1q12-21 may be important in the acute transformation of CML. In conclusion, we find that the combined use of CGH, chromosome painting, and classic cytogenetic analysis allows a better evaluation of the genomic aberration involved in CML blastic transformation, and offers new directions for its further molecular investigations.

[Chromosomal abnormalities in 38 CML cases of various phases]

OBJECTIVE

To study the genomic abnormality underlying the blast crisis of chronic myeloid leukemia(CML).

METHODS

15 CML patients in blast crisis (BC), 3 in accelerated phase (AP) and 20 in chronic phase (CP) were analyzed by conventional cytogentics, comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) and dual color chromosomal painting.

RESULTS

Philadelphia (Ph) chromosome was identified in every case studied. Only 5 among 20 CP patients had additional abnormalities while 12 out of 14 patients with disease progression (BC + AP) showed extra numerical and/or structural chromosmal aberrations. Cytogenetically, the most common chromosome gains during BC and AP were double or triple Ph chromosome(5/14), trisomy 8(5/14), trisomy 7(1/14) and 17 (1/14). Three cases showed the same region being involved in translocations t(1;17)(q12-21;q10), t(1;10) (q12-21;q26) and t(1;11)(q12-21;p15). CGH analysis detected genetic imbalances in 8 cases. In one case, a very complex chromosmal translocation del(3), del(6)(q13-21), der(6)t(17;3;6), der(17)t(6;17) was characterized by chromosomal painting.

CONCLUSION

We find that the combined use of CGH, chromosomal painting, and classic cytogenetic analysis allows a better evaluation of the genomic aberration involved in CML blastic transformation, and offers new directions for its further molecular investigation.

[Contraceptive efficacy of Sino-female condom: comparison with condom]

OBJECTIVE

To compare the contraceptive efficacy of Sino-female condom with condom.

METHODS

603 volunteer couples were randomly divided into two groups: 304 couples using female condom for contraception, and 299 using condom. Using lifetable method and log rank test, we compared the pregnancy rates and other discontinuation rates after follow-up for 6 months in two groups.

RESULTS

No abnormal findings of cervical and vaginal smears were detected before and after this clinical trial in all 603 women. The follow-up rates at 6 months were 99.01% and 99.67% in the female condom group and condom group, respectively. The 6-month gross cumulative pregnancy rates were 1.06 and 1.69 per 100 women and the discontinuation rates due to allergy were 1.39 and 0.34, respectively. No difference was statistically significant (P > 0.05). However, the discontinuation rate for other causes in the female condom group was significantly higher than that in the condom group (P < 0.01). The main cause was that more than half of subjects were used to applying condom before this study.

CONCLUSION

The contraceptive efficacy of Sino-female condom is as same as that of condom, and its clinical use is quite safe.

Geometrical-transformation approach to optical two-dimensional beam shaping: comment

I show that the research reported by Arieli et al. [Appl. Opt. 36, 9129 (1997)] has two serious mistakes: One is that an important factor is lost in the formula used in that study to determine the x-direction coordinate transformation; the other is the conclusion that the geometrical-transformation approach given by Arieli et al. can provide a smooth phase distribution. A potential research direction for obtaining a smooth phase distribution for a generic two-dimensional beam-shaping problem is stated.

IL-6, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha production by liver-associated T cells and acute liver injury in rats administered concanavalin A

The relationship between the development of acute hepatitis and the production of TNF-alpha IFN-gamma and IL-6 by liver-associated T lymphocytes following intravenous injection of concanavalin A (Con A) was studied in rats. Following a single injection of Con A, there was a dose and time-dependent correlation in the serum levels of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), IL-6, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha. These increases correlated with an increase in the numbers of CD4+, CD8+ and CD25+ T cells in blood and CD4+ and CD25+ T cells in the liver perfusate, but not with CD8+ T cells in liver perfusate. Increased levels of IL-6, IFN-gamma and TNF-alpha were constitutively produced by liver-associated CD4+ T cells when cultured. In Con A-stimulated cultures, liver-associated CD4+ T cells secreted increasing levels of TNF-alpha in a time-dependent manner following Con A injection, but TNF-alpha production by peripheral blood lymphocytes was transient with peak levels detected at 1 h which then declined over 24 h. Histological examination of the liver revealed fatty change, hepatocyte degeneration and necrosis, with an associated cell infiltrate of neutrophils and CD4+ T cells both in the portal areas and around the central veins. These results support the hypothesis that Con A-induced liver damage is mediated by CD4+ T cells acting within the liver, at least in part through the secretion of TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma and IL-6.

[Modulation of cGMP levels, soluble guanylate cyclase and phosphodiesterase activities in brain of morphine-dependent mice]

By inducing morphine dependence in mice, the changes of cGMP contents, phosphodiesterase (PDE) and soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) activities and their phosphorylation regulated by protein kinase A (PKA) were observed. It was found that: (1) cGMP contents in cerebellum, striatum, hippocampus and cerebral cortex were significantly lower. (2) The sGC activities were apparently decreased in cerebellum and striatum. In the striatum and cerebral cortex the sGC activities and phosphorylation levels in vitro were significantly increased and were inhibited by PKA inhibitor. (3) The PDE activities showed no change in cerebellum and hippocampus, but in striatum and cerebral cortex PDE activities and phosphorylation levels in vitro were significantly increased and were inhibited by PKA inhibitor. (4) These changes described above were not observed in mice treated with naloxone 30 min prior to daily morphine injection. Our data indicate that the decrease of cGMP contents occurred generally in brain regions of morphine-dependent mice. The decrease of cGMP contents in cerebellum and hippocampus may be due to the decrease of sGC activities, but the decrease of cGMP contents in striatum and cerebral cortex may be mainly due to the increase of PDE activity. Both sGC and PDE activities were regulated by PKA.

Effects on rapid cooling of small samples in quenching

Rapid cooling of small samples is necessary both to cryofixation for electron microscopy and to vitrification for cryopreservation. Several effects on the cooling rates of small samples quenched into liquid nitrogen were studied, including the diameter of samples, the subcooling of liquid nitrogen, the quenching speed, and the quenching distance. The heat flux is 1.4 x 10(6) W/m2; the cooling rate is also up to 8200 K/s at the CHF point of boiling curves for sphere of diameter 0.287 mm quenching into subcooled liquid nitrogen. It is also found that if the time of sample moving inside the liquid nitrogen is not longer than the time required for forming stable vapor in the liquid, the quenching boiling heat transfer is not influenced by the quenching speed. Several equation for calculating heat flux of samples are also presented.

[Surgical treatment of aortopulmonary septal defect]

OBJECTIVE

To study the surgical treatment of aortopulmonary septal defect.

METHOD

From January 1983 to December 1996, 5 patients with aortopulmonary septal defect (APSD) (2 male and 3 female) aged from 6 to 34 years (mean 17.4 years) underwent surgical treatment. According to Mori's were classification, 5 patients belonged to type I, 2 type II and 1 type III. The diameters of the defect ranged from 1.0 to 3.0 cm. The operations were performed under moderate hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass. Pulmonary artery incision was performed, in 3 patients while aortic incision in the other 2. All defects were repaired by Dacron patch.

RESULT

There were no operative deaths and postoperative complications. During follow-up of 10 months to 12 years, no late complications and deaths were found.

CONCLUSION

The operation should be done early as possible whenever the diagnosis is established. The surgical repair should be taken under cardiopulmonary bypass. To chose an incision on the aorta is more reasonable than on the pulmonary artery. The use the dacron patch can prevent stenosis and recanalization after operation.

Altered T-lymphocyte responsiveness to polyclonal cell activators is responsible for liver cell necrosis in alcohol-fed rats

The role of T-cell activation in alcoholic liver disease was investigated in rats fed alcohol and subsequently exposed to concanavalin A (Con A). Following Con A injection (20 mg/kg body weight), greater increases in liver-to-body weight ratio and ALT levels were observed at 12 and 24 hr in rats fed ethanol, compared with control rats fed sucrose. Furthermore, increases in serum interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels were noted in ethanol-fed rats, with maximal levels detected at 4 hr declining thereafter, but remaining above control levels at 24 hr. Analysis of T-cell subpopulations showed an increased percentage of CD4+, CD5+, and CD8+ T cells in blood from all groups, but not in liver perfusate. In contrast, a significant increase in the percentage of activated CD25+ T cells was detected in both blood and liver perfusate from rats fed ethanol even 24 hr after Con A injection. When CD4+ and CD8+ T cells from liver perfusate were cultured in the absence or presence of Con A, an increase in interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha production in supernatants was observed in ethanol-fed rats. In cultures stimulated with Con A, a 2- to 8-fold increase in cytokine production was detected, with intrahepatic CD4+ T cells being the major source. Immunohistological analysis revealed infiltration of CD4+ T cells around portal vein and central vein areas associated with fatty liver and severe hepatic necrosis. The results suggest that alcohol consumption induced a dysregulated T-cell population that mediated hepatic necrosis following polyclonal activation with Con A.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation and status epilepticus

Status epilepticus has been associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), but little is known regarding the pathogenesis of this uncommon association. We describe a 41-year-old woman with status epilepticus resulting in death in whom laboratory data demonstrated profound activation of the coagulation and fibrinolytic systems; autopsy findings were consistent with DIC. The occurrence of DIC in status epilepticus may be related to widespread endothelial damage secondary to seizure-induced hyperpyrexia. Body temperature should be closely monitored in patients with prolonged seizures.

[Studies on complex chromosomal translocation and their relevance to clinical prognosis in acute promyelocytic leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To study the relationship between the complex chromosome translocation in acute promyelocytic leukemia(APL, M3) and clinical therapy and prognosis.

METHODS

Chromosome translocation and PML-RAR fusion transcript in three APL patients were studied by using karyotypic analysis, fluorescence in situ hybridization and reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

The findings revealed that all these cases had PML/RAR A gene rearrangement. Apart from the chromosomes 15 and 17 involved in the translocation, other multiple chromosomes including 5, 11, 16, 22 were also implicated in complex translocations, which to some extent seemed to be related with clinical prognosis.

CONCLUSION

This study provides additional information for monitoring clinical therapy and prognostic evaluation.

[Application of comparative genomic hybridization to hyperdiploid acute lymphoblastic leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the implication of comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) in leukemia study.

METHODS

Genomic abnormalities in 14 ALL patients were assayed by CGH, and the results were compared with those of conventional karyotype analysis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Regional and/or whole chromosome over-representation was found to be more frequent than under-representation (43 gains versus 6 losses), the most common gains involved being chromosomes 21 and X. Comparison between the results of CGH and conventional R-banding analysis showed that: 1. In 2 cases with trisomy, both the methods gave identical results. 2. In 8 cases, both the results were consistent excepting for minor discrepancies. 3. In 3 cases, including 2 each with triploidy and tetraploidy respectively, and one with chimeric karyotype of normal/+22, the results from the two methods were discrepant.

Effects of electroacupuncture at neiguan on myocardial microcirculation in rabbits with acute myocardial ischemia

This paper reports the effects of electroacupuncture (EA) at Neiguan (P 6) on myocardial microcirculation and electrical activity observed in rabbits with acute myocardial ischemia (AMI) by employing the vascular casting method and taking monophasic action potential (MAP) as an index. It was found that in the ischemic border zone of the heart, the electrical excitability was strengthened, the shortening of the phase repolarization inhibited, and the number of the micrangia increased in some degree following EA. This suggests that EA can relieve arteriolospasm, inhibit extreme dilatation of blood capillaries, modulate imbalance of micro-vasomotion of the coronary artery, improve myocardial blood-supply, and promote normalization of electrical activities of the ischemia myocardium. This fact not only elucidates the recovery mechanism of the ischemic myocardium promoted by EA at Neiguan (P 6), but also provides morphological basis for the theory of relationship between Neiguan of the Pericardium Meridian and the heart.

Decreased tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-1alpha production from intrahepatic mononuclear cells in chronic ethanol consumption and upregulation by endotoxin

The relationship between the changes in liver pathology and the production of interleukin (IL)-1alpha, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) by intrahepatic mononuclear cells was studied in rats fed alcohol and subsequently exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Rats were fed 40% ethanol in drinking water, whereas control rats were provided with a chow diet with isocaloric or 2% sucrose drinking solutions for up to 20 weeks. Decreased IL-1alpha and TNF-alpha production in 24-hr culture supernatants of mononuclear cells isolated from liver perfusate was detected while IL-6 remained unchanged over 20 weeks. When animals were injected with LPS (1.0 microg/kg body weight), there was a 5-fold rise in ALT levels in the ethanol-fed group, but not in control groups. Increased IL-6 and TNF-alpha levels in the serum and supernatant of cultured intrahepatic mononuclear cells stimulated with or without LPS or concanavalin A was observed. There was a correlation between levels of ALT and TNF-alpha, but not IL-6. T cells and Kupffer cells were the major source of TNF-alpha in culture supernatants of hepatic perfusate mononuclear cells from ethanol-consuming rats injected LPS. In addition, pathological liver injury was evident, which suggests a pathogenic role for TNF-alpha in alcohol-induced liver disease.

The sensitivity of denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis: a blinded analysis

Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) is considered one of the most sensitive and specific of the mutational scanning techniques, yet blinded analyses have not been reported. We report the results of a blinded study of the efficiency of DGGE to detect mutations in the Human Coagulation Factor IX. Two overlapping genomic DNA sequences from exon 8 of Factor IX (290 bp and 539 bp length) with an unknown number of mutations were amplified with a 40 bp GC-clamp and tested blindly by DGGE. DGGE detected all mutations in the 290 bp genomic DNA segment. DGGE detected all but one mutation in the 539 bp genomic segment after experimental conditions were fully optimized but missed multiple mutations in an initial blinded experiment. These results demonstrate the utility of blinded analyses and confirm the exquisite power of DGGE for detecting mutations.

Detection of chromosome over- and underrepresentations in hyperdiploid acute lymphoblastic leukemia by comparative genomic hybridization

Chromosomal analysis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is often difficult because of the suboptimal in vitro growth of the immature lymphoid cell and the poor morphology obtained. In this study, we describe the application of comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) to investigate the genomic abnormalities in 14 patients with ALL, all of whom had cytogenetically identified numerical aberrations or gross chromosomal structural alteration. With the use of CGH, regional or whole chromosome overrepresentation or both were found to be more frequent than underrepresentation (52 gains vs. 6 losses), the most common gains being chromosomes 21 and X. The results of the comparison between CGH and conventional R-banding analysis could be classified into three categories: (1) in three cases, including two with trisomy, CGH and banding analysis gave identical results; (2) in six cases with hyperdiploidy and two cases presenting chromosome structural abnormalities, the results were consistent but with minor discrepancies; (3) in three cases, including two with triploidy and tetraploidy and one with chimeric karyotype together with +22, the data from CGH and cytogenetical analysis were discrepant. CGH could not find the triploidy and tetraploidy. Our results suggest that CGH has certain value in the detection of gains or losses of chromosome materials in hyperdiploid ALL. Nevertheless, the combination of CGH and conventional karyotyping provides more precise information on the genomic imbalance in ALL.

[Detection of CBF beta-MYH11 fusion transcript and inv(16)(p13;q22) in acute myelomonocytic leukemia(M4) by RT-PCR and FISH]

OBJECTIVE

To study the clinical significance of inv(16) and CBF beta-MYH11 fusion gene in the diagnosis and prognosis for M4Eo.

METHODS

CBF beta-MYH11 fusion transcripts and inv (16) were analyzed by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR) and fluorescence in situ hybridization(FISH), respectively, in acute myelomonocytic leukemia(M4) with or without eosinophilia.

RESULTS

In fifteen cases tested, one case of M4Eo and one of 9 M4 without eosinophilia were found to have CBF beta-MYH11 fusion transcript. Follow-up of the M4Eo patient showed residual PCR positivity 2 months after complete remission.

CONCLUSION

The data suggest that screening by both RT-PCR and FISH should be performed in all AML-M4 regardless of morphologic features to allow accurate diagnosis and prognosis of M4 patients.

[Influence of neuronal excitation and inhibition of rostral ventrolateral medulla on the effect of electroacupuncture of "Neiguan" acupoint]

Experiments were performed on 44 rabbits anesthetized with a mixture of urethane and chloralose. The effects of microinjection of glutamate and glycine in bilateral rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM) on the reaction of electroacupuncture (EA) of "Neiguan" acupoint (PC 6) after myocardial ischemia by ligature of the left ventricular branch of coronary artery were observed. Results showed that (1) EA could significantly promote the recovery of ECG ST-segments, mean blood pressure (MBP), left ventricular pressure (LVP) and the maximum rising rate of LVP (dp/dt max); (2) Glutamate could enhance the effects of EA on MBP, LVP and dp/dt max to a certain extent; (3) The effects of EA could be weakened significantly by glycine. It suggests that EA-induced improvement of the cardiovascular function can be strengthened further in some degree when neurons of rVLM are excited and weakened pronouncedly while the neurons are inhibited. Therefore, rVLM participates in the regulatory process of EA on functional activity of the heart.

[Influence of microinjection of clonidine and yohimbine in rVLM on the effect of electroacupuncture treatment of myocardial ischemia]

In the present paper, influence of microinjection of clonidine (Clon, 0.38 mMol, 2 microliters) and yohimbine (Yoh, 5.1 mMol, 2 microliters) in rostral ventrolateral medulla (rVLM) on the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) at Neiguan (PC 6) was observed in the rabbit with acute myocardial ischemia. Results showed that (1) EA of Neiguan could significantly accelerate the recovery of AMI-induced changes in ECG ST-segement, mean blood pressure, left ventricular pressure (LVP) and dp/dt max; (2) Clon strengthened the effect of EA on ST and LVP in some degree; and (3) Yoh significantly weakened the effect of EA on ST and LVP. It reveals that when alpha 2 receptors of rVLM are excited, the favourable effect of EA in regulating post-ischemic myocardial electrical and mechanical activity can be enhanced in some degree; and when they are inhibited, the effect of EA disappears, indicating an involvement of alpha 2 receptors of rVLM in EA of Neiguan-induced regulation on the functional activity of the heart.

Suggestive evidence for a schizophrenia susceptibility locus on chromosome 6q and a confirmation in an independent series of pedigrees

We have investigated whether there is a locus on chromosome 6 that confers an increased susceptibility to schizophrenia using a two-stage approach and nonparametric linkage analysis. Allele sharing identical by descent (IBD) and multipoint maximum likelihood score (MLS) statistics were employed. Results from two tested data sets, a first data set, or genome scanning data set, and a second replication data set, show excess allele sharing for multiple markers in 6q, a chromosomal region not previously reported as linked to schizophrenia. In our genome scanning data set, excess allele sharing was found for markers on 6q13-q26. The greatest allele sharing was at interval 6q21-q22.3 at marker D6S416 (IBD percentage 69; P = 0.00024). The multipoint MLS values were greater than 2.4 in the 11.4-cM interval delimited by D6S301 and D6S303, with a maximum value of 3.06 close to D6S278 and of 3.05 at D6S454/D6S423. We did not confirm, however, the previously described linkage in 6p, when tested in the systematic genome scanning data set. The replication data set also showed excess allele sharing in chromosomal area 6q13-q26, which overlapped with the aforementioned positive linkage area of the genome scanning data set. The highest sharing of the second data set was at D6S424 (IBD percentage 64; P = 0.0004), D6S283 (IBD percentage 62; P = 0.0009), and D6S423 (IBD percentage 63; P = 0.0009). Multipoint MLS analysis yielded MLS values greater than 1 in an area of about 35 cM, which overlaps with the MLS multipoint area of linkage from the genome scanning data set. The multipoint MLS at the D6S454/D6S423 locus was 2.05. In the second data set, the maximum multipoint MLS was located about 10 cM centromeric from the maximum of the genome scanning data set, at the interval D6S424-D6S275 (2.35). Our results provide very suggestive evidence for a susceptibility locus for schizophrenia in chromosome 6q from two independent data sets.

[Detection of bcr gene rearrangement in chronic myeloid leukemia by fluorescence in situ hybridization]

OBJECTIVE

To detect bcr gene rearrangement in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML).

METHODS

Bcr rearrangement was detected by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), using 765E3, a yeast artificial chromosome (YAC)-derived probe flanking the breakpoint within bcr gene.

RESULTS

Nine patients with CML were examined, bcr gene rearrangement was revealed in 5 cases in chronic phase, 2 in blastic phase, and one after interferon-alpha therapy. The karyotype of 1 case after autologous bone marrow transplantation (ABMT) was chimera with normal and bcr gene rearrangement chromosomes.

CONCLUSION

YAC765E3 is a useful probe for detecting bcr gene rearrangement. FISH technique is likely an important tool for monitoring of treatment and revealing minimal residual disease in CML.

[Detection of MLL gene rearrangement in acute myelomonocytic and monocytic leukemia]

OBJECTIVE

To reveal the incidence of MLL gene rearrangement and its clinical, features in acute myelomonocytic leukemia (M4) and acute monocytic leukemia (M5).

METHODS

10 patients with M4 and 27 cases with M5 were studied with the Southern blot technique to detect MLL gene abnormalities.

RESULTS

5 M5 patients were found to have MLL rearrangement, and these patients were characterized clinically by: (1) Younger at onset, (2) a higher white blood cell count (often > 100 x 10(9)/L), (3) frequent extramedullary involvement with hepatosplenomegaly and central nervous system leukemia (CNSL), and (4) a lower remission rate with a short survival time.

CONCLUSION

There is a high incidence of MLL rearrangement in M5, and this gene abnormality stands for a marker of poor prognosis.

Biological and clinical significance of cytogenetic study on 100 acute lymphoblastic leukemia and 219 acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia

OBJECTIVE

To further investigate the role that cytogenetic may play in the diagnosis and prognosis of leukemia, a study was conducted in 319 acute leukemias.

METHODS

100 patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and 219 patients with acute non-lymphoblastic leukemia (ANLL) were from Rui Jin Hospital, Xin Hua Hospital, Ren Ji Hospital and Shanghai Children's Hospital. Their cytogenetic data were analyzed together with those of morphology, immunology and clinical prognosis.

RESULTS

In ALL group, 48 cases were karyotypically normal whereas 52 cases revealed chromosomal changes, among which 32 had quantitative abnormalities and 20 had qualitative abnormalities. The translocation t(9; 22) was identified in 11 out of 20 cases of structural aberrations (55%). Specific structural aberrations t(9; 22) and t(8; 14) were detected to be related to B-lineage associated differentiation antigens and t(8; 14) also with ALL-L3 according to FAB classification. With regard to clinical prognosis, the survival rate of structural aberration subset decreased significantly compared with the normal karyotype subset (P < 0.05). However, no statistically significant difference was found between hyperdiploidy subset (not including near-triploidy) and normal karyotype subset (P > 0.75). In ANLL group, 80% of de novo patients and relapsed patients had chromosomal abnormalities. Importantly, structural aberrations accounted for 73% of these abnormalities and frequently corresponded to specific types of FAB classification. Relevant prognostic studies demonstrated that t(15; 17) subset had the best overall survival probability, followed by t(8; 21) and normal karyotype subset, while the numerical aberration subset showed a relatively poor prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Our data confirmed that cytogenetic study is important for the molecular study of the leukemogenesis. On the other hand, it also provides an independent parameter for prognosis in acute leukemia.

Effects of mutations in Pr160gag-pol upon tRNA(Lys3) and Pr160gag-plo incorporation into HIV-1

During HIV-1 viral assembly, both Pr160gag-pol and primer tRNA(Lys3) are packaged into the virus. tRNA(Lys) packaging (both tRNA(Lys3) and tRNA(Lys1,2) is dependent upon the presence of RT sequences within Pr160gag-pol. In this work, we have monitored the effect of Pr160gag-pol mutations upon incorporation of tRNA(Lys3) and Pr160gag-pol into HIV-1 produced from COS-7 cells transfected with mutant HIV-1 proviral DNAs. Mutations include carboxy deletions of Pr160gag-pol and small amino acid insertions and replacements within the various functional domains of the reverse transcriptase (RT). tRNA(Lys3) incorporation was monitored both by 2D PAGE of viral RNA, and by hybridization with tRNA(Lys3)-specific DNA probes. Our data indicates: (1) deletion of integrase sequence has a moderate effect upon select tRNA(Lys3) packaging, while carboxy terminal deletions extending further into the RNase H and connection domains more strongly reduce viral tRNA(Lys3) content; (2) tRNA(Lys3) incorporation is strongly reduced by small inframe amino acid insertions or replacements in the carboxy region of the thumb domain and the amino half of the connection domain of RT, but tRNA(Lys3) incorporation is altered little, or not at all, by similar amino acid insertional mutations within other RT domains, such as the fingers, palm, RNase H, the amino portion of the thumb, and the carboxy region of the connection domain. The inability of connection domain mutant virus to incorporate tRNA(Lys3) and to properly process precursor proteins in the virus is due to the inability of mutant Pr160gag-pol to be incorporated into the virus. These mutant precursor proteins are maintained at levels in the cytoplasm similar to wild-type.

No abnormality in the gene for the G protein stimulatory alpha subunit in patients with bipolar disorder

BACKGROUND

The available evidence for an involvement of the heterotrimeric guanine-nucleotide-binding proteins (G proteins) in bipolar disorder relies primarily on the effects of lithium salts on G protein function and on alterations in the concentration or function of G proteins (most notably Gs-alpha) in peripheral leukocytes and in postmortem tissues of patients with bipolar disorder.

METHODS

The hypothesis that a mutation in Gs-alpha gene confers an increased susceptibility to bipolar disorder was tested by the following strategies: (1) mutational screening of the Gs-alpha subunit gene coding sequences and promoter sequences by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis in unrelated individuals with bipolar disorder and (2) association and linkage analyses with a common silent exonic polymorphism, using genetic allelic information from American families with at least 1 affected child. For association analysis, the transmission test for linkage disequilibrium was used; for linkage analysis, nonparametric methods were used.

RESULTS

No structural or regulatory mutations in this gene were found in bipolar disorder; the results of association and genetic linkage were negative.

CONCLUSION

Our results do not support the speculation that the Gs-alpha protein gene has a role in the genetic predisposition to bipolar disorder.

Long-term follow-up of minimal residual disease in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients by polymerase chain reaction analysis of multiple clone-specific or malignancy-specific gene markers

Two types of markers, namely the clone-specific markers including T-cell receptor (TCR) gamma, TCR delta, and Ig heavy-chain (IgH) gene rearrangements, and malignancy-specific fusion gene mRNA such as SIL-TAL-1, BCR-ABL, and HRX-partner genes, were investigated by molecular biology techniques in 65 Chinese patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). In combination, these markers were informative among 96% of patients. Minimal residual disease (MRD) was followed up in 23 of these patients with available materials over a period varying from 8 to 54 months with at least one leukemia-specific probe. In most children, MRD was decreased continuously to an ultimately undetectable level within 6 to 12 months after remission induction therapy. One patient exhibited low-level residual leukemic cells for 4 years before the MRD turned negative. Another patient remained in complete remission for 45 months, although a positive signal was detected at 34 months using TCR delta probe, but was negative with a TCR gamma marker which was positive at presentation. In three patients who relapsed, MRD either persisted through the clinical course or became positive and eventually increased 3-11 months before clinical relapse. These data suggested that the combined use of multiple gene markers is a valuable tool for the PCR-based MRD detection, since it can cover most ALL patients. Furthermore, long-term follow-up of MRD is helpful for determining the dosage as well as the period of maintenance chemotherapy and for predicting impending relapse.

[Ultrastructural observation of tendonization of artificial tendon 109HH in rabbit]

Ten New Zealand rabbits were divided into 5 groups at random. Calcaneal tendons were cut bilaterally, then atificial tendon 109HH was used to connect the two ends of the cut tendon. Ultrastructural changes of control group and experimental groups at 2, 6, 12, 28 weeks after section were observed. The results showed that fibroblast proliferated and a lot of ribosome and RER appeared in plasm during 2 approximately 6 weeks, indicating artificial tendon caused fibroblast proliferation. During this period, fibroblast over synthesized collagenous protein and the synthesis of collagenous fibers peaked. During 12-28 weeks, the number of fibroblasts and the synthesis of collagenous protein decreased. Finally, fibroblasts became inactive tendon cells. With the formation of new tendons, the artificial tendens were degradated and absorbed, and disappeared after 12 weeks. The new tendon fibers became thicker and had the correct direction through reconstruction. The structure and function of new tendons could be restored to be consistent with normal values.

[Study of subcuticular suture skill for perineotomy and catgut-suture reaction]

The post perineotomy complications such as catgut-suture-reaction, incision infection, and laceration are very common in the hospital. The purpose of this study was to find a better suture skill. The subcuticular suture skill was studied in this study. The relationship between suture skill and catgut suture reaction was analysed. 200 women had vaginal delivery with perineotomy subcuticular suture who were hospitalized during 3 to 10 in 1994 were compared with 399 women with perineotomy routine suture skill who were hospitalized during the same period in 1992 and 1993. The result indicated that the incidence of cat gut suture reaction and secondary suture in the research group were 9%, 7.5% lower than that in control group (P < 0.01). The average time of hospitalization was 5.3 days shorter (P < 0.025). These implicate the future study on perioneotomy suture skill.

Structural change in dopamine D2 receptor gene in a patient with neuroleptic malignant syndrome

Dysfunction of the dopaminergic system has been suggested as a pathogenic mechanism in neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Therefore, we examined the complete coding sequences of the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) gene for structural abnormalities in 12 patients with a history of NMS, including two cases of familial NMS. Mutational analysis was performed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE), a highly sensitive technique for detecting sequences differences. We found in one patient with a history of NMS a nucleotide substitution at codon 310 (CCG-->TCG) of exon 7 of the DRD2 gene which predicts the replacement of proline to serine in the third cytoplasmic loop of the receptor, a part of the receptor that interacts with G-proteins. A larger series of patients with NMS needs to be investigated to establish whether this allele is associated with an increased susceptibility to NMS.

Incorporation of excess wild-type and mutant tRNA(3Lys) into human immunodeficiency virus type 1

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) particles produced in COS-7 cells transfected with HIV type 1 (HIV-1) proviral DNA contain 8 molecules of tRNA(3Lys) per 2 molecules of genomic RNA and 12 molecules of tRNA1,2Lys per 2 molecules of genomic RNA. When COS-7 cells are transfected with a plasmid containing both HIV-1 proviral DNA and a human tRNA3Lys gene, there is a large increase in the amount of cytoplasmic tRNA3Lys per microgram of total cellular RNA, and the tRNA3Lys content in the virus increases from 8 to 17 molecules per 2 molecules of genomic RNA. However, the total number of tRNALys molecules per 2 molecules of genomic RNA remains constant at 20; i.e., the viral tRNA1,2Lys content decreases from 12 to 3 molecules per 2 molecules of genomic RNA. All detectable tRNA3Lys is aminoacylated in the cytoplasm of infected cells and deacylated in the virus. When COS-7 cells are transfected with a plasmid containing both HIV-1 proviral DNA and a mutant amber suppressor tRNA3Lys gene (in which the anticodon is changed from TTT to CTA), there is also a large increase in the relative concentration of cytoplasmic tRNA3Lys, and the tRNA3Lys content in the virus increases from 8 to 15 molecules per 2 molecules of genomic RNA, with a decrease in viral tRNA1,2Lys from 12 to 5 molecules per 2 molecules of genomic RNA. Thus, the total number of molecules of tRNALys in the virion remains at 20. The alteration of the anticodon has little effect on the viral packaging of this mutant tRNA in spite of the fact that it no longer contains the modified base mcm 5s2U at position 34, and its ability to be aminoacylated is significantly impaired compared with that of wild-type tRNA3Lys. Viral particles which have incorporated either excess wild-type tRNA3Lys or mutant suppressor tRNA3Lys show no differences in viral infectivity compared with wild-type HIV-1.

[Detection on BCR-ABL fusion gene in Ph1 chromosome positive leukemia by "nested" retrotranscriptase/polymerase chain reaction]

By using "nested" retrotranscriptase/polymerase chain reaction (RT/PCR) technique, we determined the expression patterns of the BCR-ABL fusion gene resulting from the chromosomal translocation t (9; 22) in leukemias with Ph1 chromosome. Three distinct isoforms of fusion gene transcripts were discovered: ela2, b2a2 and b3a2. In 10 cases of chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML), only two types (b2a2 and b3a2) were observed. However, in 8 cases of Ph1 chromosome positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph1 + ALL), all three types were detected, including two cases characterized by the coexistence of ela2 and b2a2 or b3a2 types. Moreover, the RT/PCR procedure established in the present study proved to be a very sensitive method, allowing the detection of one leukemic cell among 10(5)-10(6) normal cells. Thus, a positive RT/PCR result was obtained in two Ph1 + ALL cases just after chemotherapy-induced clinical remission (CR), suggesting the presence of residual disease. One case remained RT/PCR positive four months after achieving CR and relapsed in the fifth month, while the other case converted to RT/PCR negative eight months later and is now in CR for 18 months. Therefore the detection of BCR-ABL fusion gene is of importance not only in the study of the pathogenesis of Ph1 + leukemias but also in their diagnosis and monitoring of minimal residual disease during CR.

AML-1 gene rearrangement and AML-1-ETO gene expression as molecular markers of acute myeloblastic leukemia with t(8;21)

Rearrangements of the AML-1 gene on chromosome 21 as well as transcriptional expression of AML-1-ETO fusion gene were studied in 35 leukemic patients with t(8;21)(q22;q22). A panel of probes generated from the AML-1 gene regions flanking the breakpoint on chromosome 21 allowed us to detect the rearrangement in 24 out of 29 patients. A specific nested reverse transcriptase/polymerase chain reaction (RT/PCR) was developed to detect the t(8;21), either at diagnosis or as minimal residual disease. PCR amplification products were obtained in ten out of 11 patients investigated, and the sensitivity of the reaction was estimated to be between 1 x 10(4) and 1 x 10(-5) cell. An AML-1 rearrangement was also detected in one patient with 8q- and only one chromosome 21, but without 21q+. This indicated that the molecular rearrangement of the der(8) chromosome is more important than the reciprocal one in the malignant process.

No structural mutation in the dopamine D2 receptor gene in alcoholism or schizophrenia. Analysis using denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis

OBJECTIVE

To examine the dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) gene coding sequences for abnormalities associated with schizophrenia or alcoholism and thereby help to resolve the controversy surrounding the reported association of alcoholism with a restriction fragment length polymorphism located close to the DRD2 gene.

DESIGN

Mutational analysis of complete DRD2 gene coding sequences by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis followed by direct nucleotide sequencing of detected variants.

SETTING

Patients and controls from clinical and epidemiologic collections in the United States and Europe.

PATIENTS

A total of 253 unrelated individuals, including 106 patients with schizophrenia, 113 with alcoholism, and 34 controls. For alcoholism we included patients from previously published series in which an association of illness with allele A1 was reported (Taql site 3' to the DRD2 gene) and from other published series in which nonconfirmations of this association were reported. Nearly all persons examined were white.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Frequency of nonsilent variations in DRD2 gene DNA sequences in the different diagnostic groups.

RESULTS

We found three infrequent DNA variants that predict altered amino acid sequence of the receptor. None of these is associated with either alcoholism or schizophrenia.

CONCLUSION

No structural coding abnormalities in the DRD2 gene are present in alcoholism or schizophrenia.