Suppression of proliferation of a human B-cell leukaemic cell line derived from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia by soluble factor(s) from Campylobacter rectus

Soluble sonic extracts of several strains were examined for their ability to alter proliferation of a cell line derived from acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (BALL-1). Extracts of all strains tested caused dose-dependent suppression of proliferation when assessed by DNA (tritiated thymidine incorporation), RNA (tritiated uridine incorporation) and protein (tritiated leucine incorporation) synthesis. There was no effect on the viability of BALL-1 as measured by either trypan-blue exclusion or extracellular release of the cytoplasmic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase. The suppressive factor(s) was separated in a well-defined peak by high-pressure liquid DEAE ion-exchange chromatography, which revealed a single active peak with a molecular mass of 48 kDa. Characterization of the peak indicated that the suppressive factor(s) was heat labile (activity destroyed at 80 degrees C) and sensitive to the proteolytic enzyme pronase P. The soluble suppressive factor(s) from Campylobacter rectus thus has protein-like properties and no cytotoxicity to a human B-cell leukaemic cell line.

Cardioprotective effect of d-propranolol in ischemic-reperfused isolated rat hearts

In the isolated, perfused working rat heart, ischemia (15 min) decreased mechanical function and also the tissue levels of ATP and creatine phosphate, and increased the tissue levels of lactate and free fatty acids including arachidonic acid. Reperfusion (20 min) did not restore mechanical function, but restored changes of metabolites incompletely except for free fatty acids, which changed further during reperfusion. Drugs were given 5 min before ischemia until the end of ischemia or for the first 10 min after reperfusion. Both dl- and d-propranolol (10 and 30 microM) decreased mechanical function, accelerated the recovery of mechanical function during reperfusion following ischemia, and attenuated ischemia reperfusion-induced metabolic changes. The attenuation of reperfusion-induced metabolic changes was more marked when these drugs were present during reperfusion. d-Propranolol showed a cardioprotection similar to that by dl-propranolol. Timolol (50 microM) did not accelerate the recovery of mechanical function during reperfusion, and did not attenuate the reperfusion-induced metabolic changes. These results suggest that d-propranolol, like dl-propranolol, has a cardioprotective effect which is probably due to its membrane stabilizing (or sodium channel blocking) action.

Modulation by histamine of the delayed outward potassium current in guinea-pig ventricular myocytes

1. Histamine receptor-mediated modulation of the delayed outward potassium current (IK) was investigated in guinea-pig single ventricular cells by the whole-cell voltage clamp. 2. Histamine increased IK in a dose- dependent manner with a half-maximum dose of 3.8 x 10(-8) M. Histamine (10(-6) M) increased IK by a factor of 3.02 without a significant change in the current kinetics. The threshold dose of histamine for increasing IK was 10(-9) M and this value was similar to that for calcium current. 3. Cimetidine decreased IK in the presence of histamine, by shifting the dose-response curve to histamine to the right. The pA2 value of cimetidine against histamine was 6.38. 4. Forskolin did not increase IK after application of 10(-6) M histamine, and histamine scarcely increased IK in the presence of a heat-stable inhibitor of cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase (PKI). 5. We conclude that stimulation by histamine of IK is mainly by way of the H2-receptor, and is mediated by cyclic AMP-dependent phosphorylation.

Effects of iloprost, a PGI2 derivative, on ischemic myocardial energy and carbohydrate metabolism in dogs

Effects of iloprost, which is a stable prostacyclin analogue, on the ischemic myocardium were examined in the open-chest dog heart in terms of biochemical parameters. Ischemia was initiated by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery. When the coronary artery was ligated for 3 min, the levels or glycogen, fructose-1,6-diphosphate (FDP), adenosine triphosphate and creatine phosphate decreased, and the levels of glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), fructose-6-phosphate (F6P), lactate, adenosine diphosphate and adenosine monophosphate increased. During ischemia, therefore, energy charge potential was significantly decreased from 0.89 +/- 0.01 to 0.82 +/- 0.01, and ([G6P] + [F6P])/[FDP] and [lactate]/[pyruvate] ratios were significantly increased from 1.75 +/- 0.30 to 29.05 +/- 5.70 and 13 +/- 3 to 393 +/- 112, respectively. Iloprost (0.1, 0.3, or 1 microgram.kg-1) was injected intravenously 5 min before the onset of ischemia. Iloprost (0.1, 0.3, and 1 micrograms.kg-1) reduced the ischemia-induced decrease in energy charge potential to 94, 74, and 86%, respectively, the increase in ([G6P] + [F6P])/[FDP] to 38, 29, 32%, respectively, and the increase in [lactate]/[pyruvate] to 67, 45, 65%, respectively. These results suggest that iloprost lessens the myocardial metabolic derangements produced by ischemia, and the most potent effect was obtained at the dose of 0.3 microgram.kg-1.

Effects of LP-805, a newly developed vasodilator, on myocardial metabolism in ischaemic dog hearts

The effects of LP-805, a newly developed vasodilator, on changes in the myocardial energy and carbohydrate metabolism induced by ischaemia were studied in open-chest anaesthetized dogs. Ischaemia was induced by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery for 3 min. The myocardial energy stores were depleted, and the levels of glycolytic intermediates were altered 3 min after the onset of ischaemia. Energy change potential was decreased, and ([G6P] + [F6P])/[FDP] and [lactate]/[pyruvate] ratios were increased by ischaemia. These findings indicated that the myocardial metabolism was converted from an aerobic to an anaerobic type by ischaemia. LP-805 (10, 30, or 100 micrograms kg-1) was injected intravenously 5 min before the onset of ischaemia. LP-805 prevented the myocardial energy depletion and alterations of myocardial carbohydrate metabolism due to ischaemia, indicating that it appeared to convert the anaerobic metabolism back to aerobic metabolism in the ischaemic myocardium. In conclusion, LP-805 may reduce the ischaemic influence on the myocardium.

Effects of transforming growth factor-beta on collagen gene expression and collagen synthesis level in mineralizing cultures of osteoblast-like cell line, MC3T3-E1

1. High levels of type I collagen mRNA and [3H]proline incorporation into collagenase digestable protein by MC3T3-E1 cells were detected during the first 7 days of culture, after which they declined. 2. Type I collagen gene expression was stimulated by TGF-beta in the early culture stage when the collagen gene expression was fully functioning. 3. However, these stimulatory effects disappeared at the differentiation stages. Although collagen gene expression was stimulated by TGF-beta (2.0 ng/ml) in early culture, collagen synthesis in medium was not. 4. This study shows that collagen synthesis and collagen gene expression were affected by the state of differentiation in MC3T3-E1 cells and that the rate of stimulation by TGF-beta in collagen gene expression decreased over time in culture.

Large cyst formation in pleomorphic adenoma

The aim of this study was to examine about the etiology of large cyst formation in pleomorphic adenoma from the histopathological standpoint by examining four cases of our own as well as previously reported ones. In the first of our cases, a large cyst wall lined with keratinized squamous epithelium was observed. In the second, a large cyst containing mucinous material was lined with a single cell layer of squamous epithelium-like cells. The third case was a carcinoma in pleomorphic adenoma with some large cysts lined with multiple layers of atypical epithelial cells. In the fourth case, a hemorrhagic portion were seen on a large cyst wall without a lining of epithelial cells. From these histopathological observations and the suggestions of previous authors, we surmised that the large cyst formation in pleomorphic adenoma might originate from the squamous metaplasia of tumor cells and the enlargement of duct-like structures by outstanding secretion from tumor cells or salivary gland tissues, hemorrhagic portions, or necrosis in the malignant tumor.

Heparin stimulates the collagen synthesis in mineralized cultures of the osteoblast-like cell line, MC3T3-E1

We found that heparin induced an increase in collagen synthesis in MC3T3-E1 cells cultured for 15 and 30 days. Northern blots showed that the effect of heparin on the collagen synthesis was mediated through the mRNA expression of type I collagen (day 15). Although heparin stimulated collagen synthesis over and above that stimulated by the transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta, heparin did not stimulate TGF-beta binding. This study indicates that heparin has special tasks both in bone formation and resorption, since it has the ability to form and degrade collagen. We suggest that heparin assists the regulation of collagen metabolism at bone resorption sites.

Cloning of the gene encoding a glycylprolyl aminopeptidase from Porphyromonas gingivalis

A genomic library of Porphyromonas gingivalis 381 was constructed in the cosmid vector pHC79. A clone, pSN1, was identified by the expression of glycylprolyl-naphthylamide hydrolysing activity. The DNA insert contained within the cosmid pSN1 was subcloned into the plasmid vector pBR328 to create the recombinant plasmid pSN11 containing a 2.9 kb EcoRV insert. An Escherichia coli transformant containing pSN11 produced a protein having a molecular weight of 75 kDa. Southern-blot hybridization revealed that the 2.9 kb EcoRV DNA hybridized with an identical sized Eco RV DNA fragment in the chromosomal DNA of P. gingivalis 381.

Role of Porphyromonas gingivalis 40-kDa outer membrane protein in the aggregation of P. gingivalis vesicles and Actinomyces viscosus

Porphyromonas gingivalis, an important pathogen in periodontitis, produces extracellular vesicles that aggregate with Actinomyces viscosus cells. A 40-kDa outer membrane protein (OMP)-coding gene from P. gingivalis was cloned and the protein was found to be localized in these vesicles. The recombinant 40-kDa OMP did not show aggregation activity. However, affinity-purified antibody against the recombinant protein significantly inhibited aggregation of P. gingivalis vesicles with A. viscosus cells. The antibody also inhibited cellular coaggregation of several strains of P. gingivalis with A. viscosus cells, but not with other periodontal pathogens. Moreover, aggregation of A. viscosus cells with P. gingivalis vesicles was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner by pre-treatment of the A. viscosus cells with the recombinant protein. These findings suggest that the 40-kDa OMP may be an important aggregation factor of P. gingivalis.

Stimulation by interleukin-1 of interleukin-6 production by human periodontal ligament cells

Interleukin-1(IL-1), a cytokine present in the gingiva and crevicular fluid of patients with periodontitis and in the periodontal ligament (PDL) of experimentally moved teeth, has multiple biological activities, including the ability to elicit bone resorption. Interleukin-6, also found in the gingiva of patients with periodontitis, may induce osteoclastic bone resorption through an effect on osteoclastogenesis. Here IL-6 production and its gene expression in response to recombinant IL-1 beta were examined in primary cultures of PDL cells. IL-1 beta stimulated IL-6 production by these cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner; this increase in IL-6 production was much higher than that in human gingival fibroblasts. In situ hybridization, using a synthetic oligonucleotide DNA probe of the IL-6 gene, revealed that most PDL cells expressed IL-6 mRNA in response to IL-1 beta treatment. The finding that IL-6 is produced by PDL cells and is regulated by IL-1 beta has revealed a potentially important mechanism for controlling alveolar bone resorption.

Suppressive effect of soluble factor(s) derived from Prevotella loescheii ATCC 15930 on proliferation of human lymphocytes

Soluble sonic extracts of Prevotella loescheii caused a dose-dependent inhibition of human peripheral blood lymphocyte proliferation by mitogen and of the proliferation of a leukemic cell line, BALL-1, when assessed by DNA synthesis (3H-thymidine incorporation). RNA (3H-uridine incorporation) and protein (3H-leucine incorporation) synthesis were similarly altered after exposure to the extract. There was no effect on cell viability as measured by either trypan blue exclusion or extracellular release of the cytoplasmic enzyme lactate dehydrogenase. Preliminary characterization indicates the suppressive factor(s) derived from P. loescheii to be a protein since it is heat-labile and trypsin-sensitive. The factor eluted in a peak on a high-pressure liquid chromatography gel filtration corresponding to a molecular weight of approximately 32,000. Since black-pigmented anaerobic rods have been implicated in the pathogenesis of periodontal disease, the data suggest that P. loescheii contributes to the disease process by suppressing lymphocyte function.

Gene cloning of Porphyromonas gingivalis specific antigens recognized by serum of adult periodontitis patient

1. Porphyromonas gingivalis is believed an important pathogen of adult periodontitis. A gene library of P. gingivalis 381 was constructed in lambda phage vector L47.1. The library was probed with serum obtained from patients of severe adult periodontitis. Two clones, lambda MDBG101 and lambda MDBG103 which were expressed, 200 and 160 kDa respectively, were selected and further studied. 2. The expressed antigens in these two clones were also reacted with rabbit antiserum against whole cells, capsular fraction and cell surface fraction of P. gingivalis. 3. Genes coding protein antigens in lambda MDBG101 and lambda MDBG103 were subcloned into high-copy-number plasmid vector pACYC184 and subclones obtained were designated as MD101 and MD103. Recombinant plasmids, pMD101 and pMD103, differed in their restriction endonuclease digestion. 4. Immunodiffusion analysis showed that cloned proteins from MD101 and MD103 reacted with antiserum against P. gingivalis but did not react with antiserum against Prevotella intermedia, Prevotella loescheii and Prevotella asaccharolyticus. 5. These data suggest that P. gingivalis species-specific antigens has been successfully cloned and expressed in Escherichia coli. Since these cloned specific antigens were recognized by adult periodontitis patient sera, the recombinant antigen will be useful material for the development of serodiagnosis of P. gingivalis infection in adults periodontitis.

Purification of sufficiently gamma-carboxylated recombinant protein C and its derivatives. Calcium-dependent affinity shift in immunoaffinity and ion-exchange chromatography

Protein C, which is an important anti-thrombotic factor in the blood coagulation cascade, undergoes several post-translational modifications. gamma-Carboxylation on nine glutamic acid residues at the N-terminal region of the light chain [gamma-carboxylated glutamic acid (Gla) domain] is considered to be critical for full anti-clotting activity. It is also known that when recombinant protein C is expressed in animal cells this particular modification is often lost. We were successful in preparing a monoclonal antibody (PC01) which distinguishes the sufficiently gamma-carboxylated protein from the rest by its specific affinity for the Ca(2+)-induced conformational change of the former, and thereby developed a simple process of purifying sufficiently gamma-carboxylated protein C. Culture supernatant of Chinese hamster ovary cell transformants was first applied to Q-Sepharose and recombinant protein C was partially purified. It was then loaded onto a PC01 affinity column in the presence of 5 mM calcium chloride. Sufficiently gamma-carboxylated protein C was retained while insufficient-carboxylated protein C quickly passed through. The former was eluted with 5 mM EDTA efficiently and with high purity, contained eight Gla units per molecule, and had similar anti-clotting activity. The flow-through was relatively impure protein C which contained five Gla units per molecule and showed limited anti-clotting activity. We extended the application of the Ca(2+)-induced conformational change to conventional ion-exchange chromatography. The sufficiently gamma-carboxylated protein C was found to elute earlier in the salt gradient from an anion-exchange column in the presence of 5 mM calcium chloride being fully separated from the insufficiently carboxylated protein C.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Cardioprotective effect of pindolol in ischemic-reperfused isolated rat hearts

The effects of pindolol and timolol on ischemia reperfusion damage were studied in isolated working rat hearts. Ischemia (15 min) decreased the mechanical function and the energy state, and increased the tissue levels of free fatty acids (FFA). During reperfusion (20 min), the mechanical function did not recover, but the energy state recovered incompletely, whereas FFA increased further. Pindolol (50 microM) accelerated recovery of the mechanical function and the energy state that had been decreased by ischemia during reperfusion, and inhibited the accumulation of FFA during ischemia and reperfusion, especially when it was applied during the whole period of reperfusion. Timolol (50 microM), however, did not accelerate recovery of the mechanical function and the energy state during reperfusion, although it attenuated FFA accumulation during reperfusion. The pindolol-induced recovery of the mechanical function during reperfusion was reduced by timolol. The results suggest that the intrinsic sympathomimetic activity of pindolol may play an important role, at least in part, in producing the cardioprotective effect, especially during reperfusion.

Positive inotropic and negative chronotropic effects of (-)-cis-diltiazem in rat isolated atria

1. The cardiovascular effects of (-)-cis-diltiazem, an optical isomer of diltiazem, were studied in the isolated atrium and aortic strip. (-)-cis-Diltiazem (30 microM or more) increased the developed tension of the rat left atrium, while (+)-cis-diltiazem (1 microM or more) decreased it. 2. (-)-cis-Diltiazem (1 to 100 microM) decreased the rate of spontaneous beating in the right atrium as did (+)-cis-diltiazem. 3. The potency of the positive inotropic action of (-)-cis-diltiazem was almost the same as that of ouabain in the rat left atrium, but in the guinea-pig left atrium it was considerably weaker than that of ouabain. 4. In both endothelium-intact and endothelium-denuded aortic strips, (-)-cis-diltiazem relaxed the Ca(2+)-induced contraction. In the endothelium-intact rat aortic strip depolarized by 15 mM KCl, Bay K 8644, a calcium channel agonist, increased the contractile force, whereas (-)-cis-diltiazem did not. 5. These results indicate that (-)-cis-diltiazem has a positive inotropic action in isolated atria in rats and guinea-pigs, but the mode of positive inotropic action of (-)-cis-diltiazem is different from that of ouabain or Bay K 8644.

Role of oxygen radicals in canine myocardial metabolic derangement during regional ischemia

To clarify the role of oxygen radicals in the development of myocardial injury during ischemia, production of lipid peroxides mediated by oxygen radicals was determined in in vivo dogs subjected to regional ischemia and reperfusion. Myocardial injury was assessed by derangement in energy and carbohydrate metabolism caused by ischemia and reperfusion. The production of lipid peroxides mediated by oxygen radicals considerably increased not only during reperfusion after ischemia but also during ischemia. Removal of oxygen radicals by administration of radical scavengers [recombinant human superoxide dismutase + catalase or N-(2-mercaptopropionyl)glycine] completely prevented the increase in production of lipid peroxides during ischemia. However, the radical scavengers did not attenuate the myocardial energy and carbohydrate metabolic derangements caused by ischemia and reperfusion after ischemia. These results suggest that significant amounts of oxygen radicals are generated during ischemia as well as during reperfusion and that the oxygen radicals and subsequent lipid peroxidation are not major factors in development of myocardial injury during either ischemia or reperfusion after ischemia.

Attenuation of ischemia-induced regional myocardial acidosis by LP-805, a newly developed vasodilator, in dogs

The effect of 8-tert-butyl-6,7-dihydropyrrolo[3,2-e]-5-methyl- pyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidine-3-carbonitrile (LP-805), a newly developed vasodilator, on myocardial acidosis induced by ischemia was studied in anesthetized open-chest dogs. Ischemia was induced by partially occluding the left anterior descending coronary artery. The coronary flow was artificially reduced to about 1/3 of the original flow. Myocardial pH was measured with a glass micro pH electrode inserted into the left ventricular wall perfused by the occluded artery. Myocardial pH decreased from about 7.5 to about 6.9 after the onset of ischemia and remained at this low level until the occluded coronary artery was released. After 30 min of ischemia, either saline containing 0.1 N HCl or 10, 30 or 100 micrograms/kg of LP-805 was injected intravenously. LP-805 attenuated the decrease in myocardial pH induced by ischemia in a dose-dependent manner. In conclusion, LP-805 may reduce the influence of ischemia on the myocardium.

Effects of thoracic epidural anesthesia on myocardial pH and metabolism during ischemia

The effect of thoracic epidural anesthesia (TEA) on the ischemic myocardium was examined in open-chest dogs anesthetized intravenously. Ischemia induced by brief coronary artery occlusion caused an elevation of the ST segment in epicardial ECG and a reduction in myocardial pH and contractile force. TEA with 0.15 ml/kg of 0.4% bupivacaine solution attenuated an ischemia-induced decrease in myocardial pH and an increase of the ST segment in epicardial ECG. This attenuation was maintained even after the restoration of blood pressure and heart rate, which had been decreased significantly after TEA, to pre-TEA levels, suggesting that a beneficial effect of TEA should not be confined to its hemodynamic changes such as decreased blood pressure and heart rate. In contrast, the subendocardial contents of ATP, creatine phosphate (CP) and lactate were not affected by TEA, either in the presence or the absence of 5 min LAD occlusion. These results suggest that neither hemodynamic nor metabolic changes are responsible for the reduced myocardial ischemic acidosis induced by TEA after brief coronary artery occlusion. The acidosis-saving property of TEA is favorable for the ischemic heart.

The effect of pimobendan on myocardial mechanical function and metabolism in dogs: comparison with dobutamine

The effect of pimobendan, a newly developed cardiotonic agent, on myocardial mechanical function and energy metabolism has been examined in the dog heart, and compared with that of dobutamine. Either saline, vehicle for pimobendan, dobutamine (0.3 and 1 microgram kg-1), or pimobendan (0.3 and 1 mg kg-1) was injected intravenously. Dobutamine and pimobendan both increased the first derivative of left ventricular pressure and percent segment shortening, indicating their positive inotropic action. After 2 min of dobutamine injection, or after 20 min of pimobendan injection, the myocardium was removed, and used for determination of the tissue levels of metabolites of energy and carbohydrate metabolism. In general, all metabolic parameters measured were not changed by either dobutamine or pimobendan injection. In animals with aortic constriction for 10 months, dobutamine and pimobendan injections did not alter the myocardial energy and carbohydrate metabolism. Although dobutamine and pimobendan increased the cardiac mechanical function, they did not disturb the myocardial energy and carbohydrate metabolism.

The inhibitory effect of bevantolol on the accumulation of non-esterified fatty acids during ischaemia in the dog heart in situ

1. The left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) was completely ligated for 90 min (i.e. myocardial ischaemia was produced) in the dog anaesthetized with pentobarbital. 2. Bevantolol, a beta 1-adrenoceptor antagonist, was injected (1 mg/kg, intravenously) 5 min before LAD occlusion. The bevantolol injection decreased heart rate without affecting blood pressure. 3. The myocardial samples were taken from the LAD area immediately after the end of LAD occlusion, and were subjected to analysis of the myocardial levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). 4. In dogs in which saline was injected, ischaemia produced accumulation of NEFA, especially arachidonic and palmitoleic acids, in the myocardium. 5. In dogs in which bevantolol was injected, the accumulation of NEFA induced by ischaemia was almost completely inhibited. 6. It is concluded that bevantolol inhibits ischaemia-induced accumulation of NEFA in the myocardium, and that stimulation of the beta 1-adrenoceptors is probably responsible for NEFA accumulation induced by ischaemia.

Effect of NCO-700, an inhibitor of protease, on lysosomal rupture in the ischemic myocardium

The effect of NCO-700 (1), a protease inhibitor, on subcellular distribution of lysosomal enzymes was studied in the ischemic perfused rat heart. Ischemia was induced by lowering the afterload pressure of the working heart preparation. The subcellular distribution of lysosomal enzymes was estimated by the ratio of the activities of cathepsin D, beta,N-acetylglucosaminidase, and acid phosphatase in the cytoplasm to the total enzyme activities. Ischemia caused subcellular redistribution of lysosomal enzymes from the lysosomes to the cytoplasm, indicating the rupture of lysosomes. Compound 1 (1.75 x 10(-4) M) was provided for the heart 5 min before the onset of ischemia. Compound 1 appeared to inhibit the rupture of lysosomes being caused by ischemia. The mechanism by which 1 protects the myocardium against ischemic injury may involve the inhibition of lysosomal rupture in the ischemic myocardium.

Vacuoles and vesicles in the rat junctional epithelium: a study with serial ultrathin sections

To investigate whether the electron-lucent structures resembling vesicles and vacuoles in the rat molar junctional epithelium (JE) are in fact intracellular or extracellular, a study using serial ultrathin sections was carried out. In one series of experiments, the animals were not treated before the tissues were conventionally fixed; in another, anesthetized animals were administered horseradish peroxidase 20 min before the tissues were fixed. A large number of electron-lucent structures resembling vesicles and vacuoles were detected in both the peripheral and central cytoplasm of the JE localized at enamel and connective tissue sites. These were 70 to 800 nm in diameter and had a lucency similar to that of the extracellular space in untreated specimens fixed with conventional fixative. Serial ultrathin sectioning revealed that the electron-lucent structures gradually became part of the extracellular space in the following sections. There were also found in the middle portion of the cytoplasm in specimens pretreated with horseradish peroxidase. Numerous vacuole-like structures containing peroxidase-positive materials were found to be contiguous with the extracellular space. A small number of vesicles, also containing peroxidase-positive materials, did not appear in the previous or following sections. These results indicate that almost all electron-lucent structures resembling vesicles and vacuoles in the JE are located at the end of a long infolding, and are still in contact with the extracellular space.

An ultrastructural study of the pocket epithelium in rats

The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the biological characteristics of pocket epithelium in experimental periodontitis. Elastic rubber was inserted between the first and second molars of the left maxilla in rats. The rubber was removed after one week, and the animals were sacrificed one week after the removal, i.e., two weeks after the insertion. Sections of the teeth and surrounding tissues were examined by electron microscopy. Periodontal pockets were evident between the tooth surface and epithelial cell layer in the coronal portion. A large number of bacteria surrounded by neutrophils were observed on the cementum surface in the pocket; however, no bacterial invasion could be seen in the epithelium. The epithelial cells were spilt in the central portion by invasion of neutrophils, so that one or two layers of surviving epithelial cells were present on the cementum surface. Numerous fenestrations of capillaries were found in the connective tissue immediately below the epithelium. These results suggest that the pocket epithelium is formed by an intercellular split of the epithelium, not between cementum surface and epithelium.

Effects of MCI-176, a new quinazolinone calcium antagonist, on myocardial energy and carbohydrate metabolism in ischemic dog hearts

The effect of 2-(2,5-dimethoxyphenylmethyl)-3-(2-dimethylaminoethyl)- 6-isopropoxy-4(3H)-quinazolinone hydrochloride (MCI-176), a calcium antagonist, on ischemic myocardial metabolism was studied in dog hearts subjected to an occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) for 3 or 30 min. MCI-176 (0.03 or 0.1 mg/kg), when injected i.v. 5 min before occlusion, increased coronary blood flow and decreased systemic aortic pressure. When the LAD was ligated, the levels of creatine phosphate, ATP, total adenine nucleotides and energy change potential decreased in the ischemic myocardium. Three minutes after ischemia, MCI-176 (0.1 mg/kg) significantly (P less than 0.05) diminished these impairments of energy metabolism. Even 30 min after ischemia, pretreatment with MCI-176 tended to lessen the depletion of ATP and total adenine nucleotides, although these effects were not statistically significant. Myocardial ischemia produced a breakdown of glycogen, an accumulation of lactate, and an inhibition of glycolytic flux through phosphofructokinase reaction. MCI-176 (0.1 mg/kg) significantly (P less than 0.05) reduced these alterations of carbohydrate metabolism after 3 min of ischemia. These results suggest that pretreatment with MCI-176 reduces the impairments of myocardial energy and carbohydrate metabolism in ischemic dog hearts, suggesting that the drug is capable of improving the imbalance between oxygen supply and oxygen demand in the ischemic myocardium.

Platelet-activating factor stimulates production of prostaglandin E2 in murine osteoblast-like cell line MC3T3-E1

We found that platelet-activating factor (PAF) stimulated the production of prostaglandin (PG) E2 in MC3T3-E1 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. 1.0 microM PAF gave a maximal stimulation of PGE2 production by MC3T3-E1 cells after a 4 hr PAF-treatment. Furthermore, the PAF-induced PGE2 production was abolished by the pre-treatment of the cells with a PAF receptor antagonist, 1-O-hexadecyl-2-acetyl-sn-glycero-3-phospho(N,N,N-trimethyl)hexanolamine, which occupied the same receptor site as PAF. These results suggest that PAF stimulates the PGE2 synthesis through a PAF receptor mediated pathway. Possibly PAF modulates bone metabolism by stimulating PGE2 synthesis.

Purification and characterization of recombinant cell surface protein antigen A of Streptococcus sobrinus B13N

1. It has been reported that immunization of rhesus monkeys with the surface protein antigen I/II from Streptococcus mutans significantly reduced dental caries. 2. The surface protein antigen A (SpaA) from Streptococcus sobrinus is known to correspond antigenically to I/II. MD51 is an Escherichia coli host containing pMD51, a plasmid encoding the SpaA gene from Streptococcus sobrinus B13N. 3. The recombinant SpaA (rSpaA) was purified from cell extracts of Escherichia coli clone MD51. 4. The purified recombinant SpaA was homogeneous with a molecular weight of 210 kDa according to SDS-PAGE and had an isoelectric point of 4.2 based on isoelectric focusing. 5. Amino acid composition of rSpaA showed a relatively high amount of hydrophobic amino acids (39.7%).

Purification and immunochemical characterization of a recombinant outer membrane protein from Bacteroides gingivalis

1. Bacteroides gingivalis is thought to be one of the most virulent microorganisms in relation to adult periodontitis. A gene clone, MD125, is an Escherichia coli host which produces an outer membrane protein of B. gingivalis. 2. The recombinant outer membrane protein (rOMP) was purified to homogeneity from cell sonicate of MD125 by four chromatographic steps. The molecular weight of the purified rOMP was estimated to be approximately 40 kDa. 3. Immunodiffusion analysis showed that antiserum against whole cells of B. gingivalis reacted not only with B. gingivalis cells but also with other Bacteroides cells. Antiserum against the purified recombinant protein reacted with cells of B. gingivalis, whereas this antiserum did not react with all of the other Bacteroides species tested. 4. These data suggest that the rOMP may be a B. gingivalis-specific antigen and that the purified rOMP will be useful material for serodiagnosis and for the development of a vaccine against B. gingivalis infection.

Both d-cis- and l-cis-diltiazem have anti-ischemic action in the isolated, perfused working rat heart

The effect of diltiazem (d-cis-diltiazem) on the ischemic myocardium was compared with that of l-cis-diltiazem, an optical isomer having less potent calcium channel-blocking action, in the isolated, perfused working rat heart. Ischemia decreased mechanical function and tissue levels of ATP and creatine phosphate, and increased tissue levels of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), AMP and lactate. Reperfusion did not restore mechanical function, but restored incompletely the levels of metabolites (except NEFA) that had been altered by ischemia. The ischemia-induced changes in NEFA were prevented by d-cis-diltiazem completely and by l-cis-diltiazem incompletely. Other metabolic changes induced by ischemia were attenuated by d-cis-diltiazem but not by l-cis-diltiazem. In heart pretreated with d-cis- or l-cis-diltiazem, both the mechanical function and the levels of metabolites recovered during reperfusion, the degree of recovery with both drugs being similar. These results indicate that not only d-cis-diltiazem but also l-cis-diltiazem has an anti-ischemic action probably due to inhibition of the tissue NEFA accumulation. These results also suggest that the mechanism of the protective effect of d-cis-diltiazem on the ischemic myocardium is not entirely due to the calcium channel-blocking action. Treatment with low Ca2+ (1.0 mM CaCl2) also attenuated the ischemia-induced changes. The interval between reoxygenation and start of function in the reperfused heart that had been treated with low Ca2+ was significantly longer than that with d-cis- or l-cis-diltiazem. The effect of these isomers to shorten this interval may contribute to their common anti-ischemic action.

Dichloroacetate attenuates myocardial acidosis and metabolic changes induced by partial occlusion of the coronary artery in dogs

The present study was undertaken to examine whether dichloroacetate, which inhibits pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase and, therefore, increases the activity of pyruvate dehydrogenase, attenuates myocardial acidosis and metabolic changes induced by coronary occlusion. In dogs anesthetized with pentobarbital, the left anterior descending coronary artery was incompletely occluded to reduce the left anterior descending flow to a half to one third of the original flow (partial occlusion) to produce myocardial (regional) ischemia. Partial occlusion was continued for 90 min, and a bolus injection of saline or dichloroacetate was made intravenously 30 min after the onset of occlusion. Partial occlusion decreased myocardial pH significantly. An injection of dichloroacetate (150 mg/kg) increased myocardial pH that had been lowered by partial occlusion. Myocardial metabolites were measured in other dogs. Partial occlusion decreased the myocardial levels of adenosine triphosphate, creatine phosphate and energy charge potential, and increased that of lactate significantly, without affecting the myocardial levels of pyruvate and nonesterified fatty acids. Dichloroacetate attenuated the ischemia-induced changes in the myocardial levels of adenosine triphosphate, creatine phosphate, energy charge potential and lactate. These results indicate that dichloroacetate attenuates the myocardial acidosis and metabolic changes during coronary partial occlusion.

[Change of beta-actin gene expression during culture on osteoblast-like cell line, MC3T3-E1]

Multiple forms of actin (alpha, beta, and gamma-actin) have been found in a variety of mammalian cell lines and tissues by the use of high resolution, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. alpha-Actin is found only in differentiated muscle cells, and its synthesis is induced during myogenesis in culture, beta- and gamma-actin isotypes are the principal components of microfilaments, structures believed to be involved in cellular morphogenesis, motility, and mitosis. Recent studies have shown that mammalian actin mRNA levels are modulated in response to changes in cell shape and during cell differentiation in vitro. On the other hand, Kodama et al. isolated clone MC3T3-E1 cells from newborn mouse calvaria, which have retained the ability to produce and mineralize a bone-like ground substance after many serial passages. Thus clone is useful for studying osteoblast differentiation as well as the mechanism of calcification. It is demonstrated that bone cells assume a stellate morphology after some hormone treatment and these changes were clearly associated with altered reorganization of the microfillaments which resulted in an enhanced osteoblast phenotype. We have now examined the effect of culture day on expression of beta-actin gene in MC3T3-E1 cells and found that expression of beta-actin gene reduced with culture days. These alternative on the expression of actin gene suggest that beta-actin may be involved in bone remodeling in vivo.

Effects of bunazosin, a selective alpha 1-adrenergic blocking agent, on myocardial energy metabolism in ischemic dog heart

Effects of a selective alpha 1-adrenergic blocking agent, bunazosin, on myocardial energy metabolism in the ischemic heart were studied. Ischemia was induced by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery of the dog heart. Bunazosin was injected intravenously either 5 or 20 min before coronary artery ligation. Hearts were removed 3 min after coronary ligation and used for determination of the levels of cardiac tissue metabolites. Ischemia decreased the levels of ATP, creatine phosphate, glycogen and glucose, and increased the levels of ADP, AMP, hexose monophosphates and lactate. The energy charge potential (ECP) calculated was decreased by ischemia. Pretreatment with bunazosin inhibited the decrease in ATP and the increase in AMP caused by ischemia, resulting in the high value of ECP in the ischemic myocardium. Bunazosin also prevented the changes in carbohydrate metabolism caused by ischemia. It is concluded that bunazosin may reduce the influence of ischemia on the myocardium.

Effect of nipradilol on myocardial energy metabolism in the dog ischaemic heart

The effect of nipradilol, a newly developed beta-adrenoceptor blocking agent with a vasodilatory action, on myocardial energy metabolism has been examined in the dog ischaemic heart, and compared with that of propranolol. Ischaemia was induced by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery. Either saline, nipradilol (0.3 mg kg-1), or propranolol (1 mg kg-1) was injected intravenously 5 min before coronary ligation. After 3 or 30 min of coronary ligation, the ischaemic region of the myocardium was removed, and the endocardial portion used to determine the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), adenosine monophosphate (AMP), creatine phosphate (CrP) and lactate. Ischaemia decreased the levels of ATP and CrP, and increased the levels of ADP, AMP and lactate. Immediately after the injection of nipradilol, rapid falls in blood pressure and heart rate were observed. Pretreatment with nipradilol lessened the decreases in the levels of ATP and CrP and the increases in the levels of AMP and lactate, caused by 3 min of ischaemia, to the same extent as propranolol. However, after 30 min of ischaemia, nipradilol had no effect on myocardial metabolism unlike propranolol. These results indicate that nipradilol can reduce ischaemic influences on myocardial metabolism as well as propranolol, but only in the early stages of ischaemia.

Effect of diltiazem on the oxymyoglobin level of myocardial cells in the isolated, perfused rat heart during hypoxia

The effect of diltiazem on the oxymyoglobin level was studied in the isolated rat heart during hypoxia. The heart was perfused with Krebs-Henseleit solution equilibrated with a gas mixture containing 95% O2 + 5% CO2 (normoxic perfusion solution) at a constant flow rate (9 ml/min) according to Langendorff's method. All the hearts were paced at 300 beats/min. The myocardial oxymyoglobin level (i.e., intracellular oxygen level) of the left ventricular surface was continuously measured by means of an optical technique. Diltiazem (infused into the aortic cannula for 10 minutes at concentrations of 0.72, 2.41, or 4.82 microM, expressed as the final concentration in the solution) decreased the left ventricular pressure (LVP) and perfusion pressure (PP) dose dependently, and did not change the oxymyoglobin (MbO2) level during normoxic perfusion. Hypoxic perfusion (using a gas mixture containing 30% O2 + 5% CO2 + 65% N2) decreased the MbO2, LVP, and PP. Diltiazem (infused 5 minutes after the hypoxic perfusion) at a concentration of 2.41 or 4.82 microM increased the MbO2 level and further decreased the LVP, without affecting the PP. The low concentration of 2.41 or 4.82 microM increased the MbO2 level and further decreased the LVP, without affecting the PP. The low concentration (0.72 microM) of diltiazem, however, had practically no effect on these parameters. In summary, diltiazem in high concentrations decreased the LVP and increased the intracellular oxygen level of the myocardial cells during hypoxia, but not during normoxia.

Myocardial non-esterified fatty acids during normoxia and ischemia in Langendorff and working rat hearts

In isolated perfused rat hearts, the tissue levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) decreased during normoxic perfusion for 60 min in the working heart but not in the Langendorff heart. The levels of both saturated and unsaturated NEFA increased during ischemia for 20 min in the working heart but not in the Langendorff heart, although unsaturated NEFA increased in the Langendorff heart when the ischemic period was 40 min. Arachidonic and linoleic acids were the NEFA that accumulated most prominently.

Changes in myocardial nonesterified fatty acids during ischemia and reperfusion in isolated, perfused, working rat hearts

The time course of changes in the myocardial levels of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), adenosine triphosphate (ATP), creatine phosphate (CrP) and lactate, and those in the cardiac mechanical function during ischemia and reperfusion was investigated in the isolated, perfused, working rat heart. Ischemia was produced by lowering the afterload pressure from 60 to 0 mm Hg, and reperfusion resulted from raising the afterload pressure to 60 mm Hg. Ischemia stopped the heart beat, and increased the myocardial levels of unsaturated NEFA (such as arachidonic, palmitoleic, and linoleic acids) as a function of the ischemic period; it decreased the myocardial levels of ATP and CrP, and increased the myocardial level of lactate. The level of arachidonic acid increased when the myocardial level of ATP fell below 5 mumol/g dry weight. Reperfusion after ischemia started the heart beat, and restored the mechanical function which depended on the preceding ischemic period. Reperfusion also increased the levels of ATP and CrP and decreased the level of lactate, whereas it further increased the levels of the NEFA that had been elevated by ischemia. The recovery of mechanical function was inversely correlated with the myocardial level of arachidonic acid during ischemia and reperfusion. We concluded that changes in the myocardial levels of NEFA during ischemia and reperfusion are different from those of ATP, CrP, and lactate, and suggest that the myocardial level of arachidonic acid during ischemia and reperfusion can be a sensitive and suitable marker for the recovery of mechanical function during reperfusion.

Immunohistochemical study of basal cell adenoma in the parotid gland

Basal cell adenoma of the parotid gland was studied with immunohistochemical methods. We observed cells in the tumor with positive reaction to polyclonal keratin, prekeratin, monoclonal PKK-1, polyclonal S-100 protein, monoclonal S-100 protein (alpha), secretory component, actin and laminin. However, no cells which stained positively with monoclonal KL-1, amylase, carcinoembryonic antigen, or epithelial membrane antigen were recognized. From these immunohistochemical results and our ultrastructural observations reported previously, we conclude that the cells constituting the basal cell adenoma are ductal, myoepithelial, and squamous cells but not secretory ones. It is also suggested that the origins of basal cell ademona as well as those of pleomorphic and clear cell adenoma are undifferentiated cells of intercalated duct.

Cloning of a Bacteroides gingivalis outer membrane protein gene in Escherichia coli

Gene banks of chromosomal DNA from Bacteroides gingivalis 381 were constructed using the bacteriophage replacement vector lambda L47.1. A clone encoding an outer membrane protein from B. gingivalis was identified by Western blot screening with antiserum raised against the outer membrane fraction of B. gingivalis 381 cells. The DNA insert contained within this phage was cloned into the plasmid vector pACYC184 to create the recombinant plasmid pMD123. An Escherichia coli transformant, MD123, containing pMD123 produced a protein having an apparent molecular weight of 40 kDa. The recombinant protein was purified, and amino acid analysis revealed the recombinant protein to have a relatively high content of hydrophobic amino acids (43.6%). Antiserum against the purified recombinant 40 kDa protein reacted with a polypeptide of similar size in the outer membrane fraction and vesicles of B. gingivalis.

Studies on cholesterol accumulation in radicular cyst fluid--origin of heat-stable cholesterol-binding protein

1. The amount of apolipoprotein B (apo B) was measured using slit-immunoblotting in 20 specimens of radicular cyst fluids. Apo B was detected in all the cyst fluids with varying amounts. 2. Relationship between the amounts of apo B and free cholesterol or activity of heat-stable cholesterol-binding protein (HCBP) were examined. The amount of apo B was correlated well with the activity of HCBP (n = 20, r = 0.72, P less than 0.01) and with the amount of free cholesterol (n = 20, r = 0.45, P less than 0.05). 3. Anti-human apo B antibody inhibited cholesterol-binding activity in radicular cyst fluid. 4. When human-serum was chromatographed on a HPLC ion-exchange column, both cholesterol-binding activity and apo B had exactly the same retention time. 5. These results suggest that HCBP originates from beta-lipoprotein, and beta-lipoprotein may have an important role in cholesterol accumulation on radicular cysts.

Purification and characterization of glycylprolyl aminopeptidase from Bacteroides gingivalis

A glycylprocyl aminopeptidase from cell extracts of Bacteriodes gingivalis 381 was purified 1058-fold by hydrophobic adsorbent, HPLC anion exchange, and HPLC gel filtration column chromatography. The final enzyme preparation was homogeneous with a molecular weight of 75,000 daltons by SDS-PAGE, and the isoelectric point was 6.2. The optimum pH of the enzyme was 8.0, and the enzyme activity was inhibited by DFP Ni2+ and Hg2+.

[Histopathological study of experimental periodontitis in rats--ultrastructures, permeability, immunohistochemistry, and morphometric analysis in both pocket and long junctional epithelial]

To elucidate the biological characteristics of both pocket and long junctional epithelia in experimental periodontitis, elastic rubber was inserted between the first and second molars of the left maxilla in rats. The rubber was removed after a week. An immunohistochemical study using anti-laminin and permeability experiments using peroxidase were conducted; examinations were made of ultrastructures and lanthanum; and a morphometric analysis was made of the distribution of capillaries immediately below the epithelium.

RESULTS

1. Periodontal pockets formed from 5 days to 2 weeks after removal of the rubber. The long junctional epithelium was appearent from the fourth week after removal. Immunohistochemical study showed that laminin was located at the internal and external basal laminae in the long junctional epithelium but not on the surface of the pocket epithelium. 2. Electron microscopy showed the pocket epithelium to consist of flattened cells aligned parallel to the tooth surface in the coronal portion. The epithelium, which included numerous vacuoles, manifested especially wide intercellular spaces in which a large number of polymorphonuclear leukocytes were evident. Bacteria surrounded by neutrophils could be seen on the surface of the cementum in the pocket. Invading neutrophils split the epithelium at the central portion of the pocket. In the apical portion, the epithelium formed spindles that adhered to the cementum by means of half-desmosomes. Many neutrophils and fenestrated capillaries were observed in connective tissue immediately below the epithelium. 3. The long junctional epithelium consisted of 2 or 3 cell layers aligned parallel to the tooth surface. Intercellular spaces in the long junctional epithelium were as wide as those in the pocket epithelium and contained a small number of lymphocytes and a few neutrophils. Half-desmosomes were detected between the epithelial cells and the cementum. From the central to the apical region, epithelial tissues assumed a knife-edge form. Desmosomes and gap junctions occurred among these cells. Dense granules containing a limiting membrane and homogeneous electron-dense material were observed int he peripheral cytoplasm. Although fibroblasts aligned parallel to the epithelium occurred in them, few collagen fibers, inflammatory cells and capillaries were to be recognized in the connective tissue. 4. Permeability experiments in the pocket and the long junctional epithelium produced analogous results. Light microscopy showed that, in both epithelia, peroxidase penetrated into intercellular spaces and leaked into the pocket. Electron microscopy showed that, as an electron-dense material, lanthanum was detected in intercellular spaces and connective tissues.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Regeneration of periodontal tissues following experimentally induced periodontitis in rats: a comparison of sucrose-rich and conventional diets

The purpose of the present study is to elucidate influences of diet on periodontal regeneration following experimental periodontitis in rats. S-D rats were divided into two groups, which were fed either a conventional diet (group A) or a sucrose-rich diet (group B). Experimental periodontitis was produced by placement of elastic bands between maxillary molar teeth. After one week, the elastic bands were removed and the animals were sacrified by perfusion fixation with formalin immediately, 1, 3, or 5 days, or 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, or 8 weeks after the removal. Sections of the teeth and surrounding tissue were examined by light microscopy. Three days after the removal, in both groups, granulation tissues with many inflammatory cells were covered by epithelial cells; the attachment site to the root surface was located more apically than the cemento-enamel junction. Distinct periodontal pockets were formed by five days after the removal in group A. In group B, the infiltrations of inflammatory cells were more prominent than in group A. Six weeks after the removal in both groups, an epithelium which resembled long junctional epithelium rather than pocket epithelium became thicker. Eight weeks after the removal, the findings were similar to those of six weeks in group A. However, a severe inflammatory cell concentration was found in group B. These results suggest that periodontal wound healing is markedly influenced by diet, and that this experimental system is useful for studying dynamic changes in both pocket and long junctional epithelia.

Effect of lidocaine on the accumulation of non-esterified fatty acids in the ischemic perfused rat heart

The effect of lidocaine on the accumulation of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) was investigated in the isolated, perfused working rat heart. Ischemia was induced by lowering the afterload pressure to 0 mm Hg for 20 min, and reperfusion was induced by raising the pressure to the pre-ischemic value (60 mm Hg) for 20 min. The heart was frozen for biochemical studies immediately after ischemia or reperfusion. Ischemia decreased the mechanical function, increased the levels of palmitoleic, arachidonic and linoleic acids, left unchanged the levels of oleic, lauric, myristic, palmitic and stearic acids, decreased the levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), creatine phosphate (CrP), decreased the energy charge potential (ECP) and increased the level of lactate. Lidocaine (10(-5) or 3 x 10(-5) M) improved the mechanical function and attenuated the changes in NEFA, ATP, CrP, and ECP caused by ischemia. These findings suggest that lidocaine attenuates the ischemia- and reperfusion-induced metabolic changes in the myocardium.

Relationship between coronary flow and high energy phosphates in the isolated perfused rat heart, with special reference to the effects of anoxia, iodoacetic acid, and 2,4-dinitrophenol

In Langendorff rat hearts, anoxia increased the coronary flow, concentration of adenosine in the coronary effluent and the tissue level of lactate, and decreased the intracellular oxygen, left ventricular pressure (LVP), heart rate and the tissue levels of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and creatine phosphate (CrP). In the normoxic heart, an infusion of iodoacetic acid (IAA) (0.1 mg/min) increased the coronary flow, adenosine concentration in the effluent, and decreased ATP and CrP levels, without decreasing the intracellular oxygen. When glucose in the perfusate was substituted for pyruvate, IAA did not produce the pharmacological effects. In the normoxic heart, an infusion of 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP) (50 micrograms/min) increased the coronary flow, adenosine concentration in the effluent and oxygen consumption, but decreased the intracellular oxygen, LVP and the tissue levels of ATP and CrP, without affecting the lactate level. There was no direct relationship between the coronary flow and the adenosine concentration in the effluent, but there was a close relationship between the increase in coronary flow and the total loss of myocardial ATP and CrP during anoxia, infusion of IAA, or infusion of DNP. These results indicate that the total loss of ATP and CrP from the myocardium (and hence energy state of the myocardium) may be responsible for regulation of coronary flow.

[Statistical study of epulis, especially in general pathology]

This report contains a statistical study of 874 cases of epulis diagnosed by the Department of Pathology of Tokyo Dental College from 1966 to 1986. 1. Of the 874 cases, 344 were epulis fibrosa, 217 were epulis granulomatosa, 78 were epulis fibromatosa, 74 were epulis fibrosaosteoplastica, 51 were epulis hemangiomatosa, 43 were epulis fibrosa teleangiectaticum, 15 were epulis cementoplastica, 14 were epulis osteomatosa, 3 were congenital epulis, 2 were giant cell epulis, and 1 was epulis cementomatosa. 2. As has been reported in other literature, there is a marked tendency for this condition to occur in females (331 male cases and 539 female cases). 3. Our data indicate a higher occurrence rate in people in their fifties, although the occurrence rates were similar in people in their twenties and in people in their sixties. 4. The epulis was observed most frequently in the maxillary incisor region.

A possible involvement of oxygen free radicals in the development of myocardial acidosis during coronary occlusion in dogs

The present study was designed to examine whether free radical scavengers attenuate myocardial acidosis induced by partial occlusion of the coronary artery in dogs. The myocardial pH was determined by a micro glass pH electrode inserted in the endocardial layers of the left ventricular wall perfused by the left anterior descending coronary artery. The left anterior descending coronary artery was occluded for 90 min incompletely so that the flow would be 1/2-1/3 the original flow. The myocardial pH before partial occlusion was 7.54-7.55. Partial occlusion decreased the flow in the left anterior descending coronary artery by 49.3-64.9% and the myocardial pH by 0.71-0.76, and increased the ST segment (surface electrocardiogram) by 6.3-9.3 mV. Saline (0.5 ml/kg), recombinant human superoxide dismutase (70,000 or 210,000 U/kg), or catalase (55,000 or 165,000 U/kg) was injected intravenously 30 min after partial occlusion. The injection of recombinant human superoxide dismutase or catalase alone did not restore the myocardial pH that had been decreased by coronary occlusion. The combined injection of recombinant human superoxide dismutase (70,000 U/kg) + catalase (55,000 U/kg), however, restored the myocardial pH without restoration of ST segment. In conclusion, recombinant human superoxide dismutase + catalase attenuated myocardial acidosis during ischaemia, suggesting a possible involvement of oxygen free radicals in the development of myocardial acidosis (especially in the endocardial layers) during ischaemia.

Ultrastructure of basal cell adenoma in the parotid gland

Basal cell adenoma of the parotid gland was studied with electron microscopy. The cells constituting this tumor were divided into three types of epithelial cells; ductal, myoepithelial, and squamous cells. The ductal cells, which were polygonal and cuboidal in shape, formed a sometimes distinct lumen. Glycogen were recognized in the cytoplasm of these cells. The myoepithelial cells appeared as plasmacytoid cells which contained abundant microfilaments. The squamous cells were characterized by the presence of well-developed tonofilaments and desmosomes. However, no secretory cells could be found, although small, electron dense granules were detected in the cytoplasm of the ductal cells. The granules were unlike secretory granules in their size, number and location. In consideration of the presence of secretory and myoepithelial cells, we reviewed previously reported literature and discussed the identification of secretory granules. From our and other reported results, we tentatively concluded that the electron dense granules described as secretory granules are not intrinsic secretory granules. Further, we suggested that the cell types and the histogenesis of basal cell adenoma are analogous to those of both pleomorphic and clear cell adenomas.

Effect of flunarizine on ischemic myocardial metabolism in dogs

The effect of flunarizine, a calcium entry-blocker, on the ischemic myocardial metabolism of the open-chest dog heart was examined and compared to that of diltiazem. During ischemia, initiated by ligating the left anterior descending coronary artery, the metabolism of the myocardium switched from aerobic to anaerobic; the levels of glycogen, fructose-1,6-diphosphate (FDP), adenosinetriphosphate and creatinephosphate decreased, and the levels of glucose-6-phosphate (G6P), fructose-6-phosphate (F6P), lactate, adenosine diphosphate and adenosine monophosphate increased during 3 min of ischemia. The calculated energy charge potential decreased, and the [( G6P] + [F6P]/[FDP] ratio and the lactate/pyruvate ratio were increased by ischemia. Flunarizine (0.3 or 1 mg/kg) or diltiazem (0.1 mg/kg) was injected i.v. 5 min before the start of ischemia. Pretreatment with either flunarizine or diltiazem reduced the decrease in the energy charge potential and the increase in the [( G6P] + [F6P]/[FDP] ratio during ischemia. Flunarizine (1 mg/kg) and diltiazem (0.1 mg/kg) reduced the accumulation of lactate due to ischemia, leading to a decrease in the lactate/pyruvate ratio. Flunarizine and diltiazem may lessen the influence of ischemia on the myocardial tissue.

[Chemosensitivity of human head and neck tumors detected by human tumor clonogenic assay]

Chemosensitivity of human head and neck tumor was evaluated by human tumor clonogenic assay. Among eight of head and neck tumors seven squamous cell carcinomas such as tongue, gingiva, maxillary sinus, pharynx and one malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) of maxillary sinus and four anti-cancer agents BLM, CDDP, 5-FU and MMC were used. Five of eight tumors were succeeded to evaluate the sensitivity. Positive rates except MFH were BLM 100% (3/3), CDDP 25% (1/4), 5-FU 33% (1/3). These results are similar to recent clinical experiments except CDDP.

[Radio- and radio-chemosensitivity of human head and neck cancer cell line detected by human tumor clonogenic assay]

The radiosensitivity and radio-chemosensitivity of 3 series of human cancer cell lines were evaluated by human tumor clonogenic assay. The sources of cell lines were gingiva carcinoma (Ca9-22), uterus carcinoma (Hela) and gastric carcinoma (MKN-45). BLM and CDDP were used, and chemosensitivity of gingiva carcinoma tended to be higher than other cell lines. Radiosensitivity was same as MKN-45. Isobologram were employed for quantitation of the interaction between the irradiation and anti-cancer agents. In Ca9-22, the interaction of between gamma-rays, BLM and CDDP was supra-additive. Hela was also supra-additive, but in MKN-45, the interaction of between gamma-rays and BLM was sub-additive.