Immunological activities of recombinant interferon-alpha 2 and its A fragment

The immunomodulating effects of the A fragment of recombinant human interferon-alpha 2 (rIFN-alpha 2) generated by thermolysin treatment was compared to that of the intact rIFN-alpha 2 and lymphoblastoid IFN. The A fragment was similar to intact IFN in augmenting natural killer (NK) activity and suppressing the proliferation of certain cell lines, but it failed to inhibit human polyclonal immunoglobulin production; rIFN-alpha 2 and lymphoblastoid IFN were equally effective in suppressing this in vitro system. These data suggest that the A fragment mediates certain, but not all, of the immunomodulating properties of IFN-alpha 2.

Improved immunohistochemical localization of tissue antigens using modified methacarn fixation

Detailed comparative studies have been carried out using a wide range of aqueous and nonaqueous based fixatives in order to select the optimal fixation schedule for the immunohistochemical localization of four antigens: type IV collagen, actin, Factor VIII, and epithelial membrane antigen (EMA). Modified methacarn fixation provides an ideal combination of maximum staining and morphological preservation for these antigens. Enhanced immunoreactivity with this fixative was also noted for a broad spectrum of antigens, including myoglobin, glial fiber acidic protein, keratin, myosin, laminin, prostatic acid phosphatase, alpha-fetoprotein, and carcinoembryonic antigen. Although it is not recommended for most cell surface antigens, this fixative may have a definite place in diagnostic surgical pathology.

Sequential changes of alpha1-antitrypsin after surgical trauma

alpha1-Antitrypsin, an acute phase reactant, is known to rise following surgery [1,2]. It has not been previously reported, however, that the rise is preceded by an initial drop. Our study on a large group of surgical patients confirms the rise, but also shows that a significant drop in alpha1-antitrypsin levels occurs prior to the increase, if the serum samples are obtained immediately after completion of surgery. The observed decrease was independent of age, sex, type of surgery performed or the anesthetic administered. It is postulated that the decrease in serum levels is the result of migration of alpha1-antitrypsin to the tissues injured during surgery.

The value of premedication in diminishing salivary secretions

A study has been carried out on the anti-sialogogue effect of some drugs used in premedication. Among different anaesthetic agents used in this study halothane appeared to be the least effective in stimulating salivary secretions. Pethidine-atropine combination proved to be very satisfactory as an anti-sialogogue. Atropine came next, where its intravenous route of administration was more satisfactory in short procedures than its intramuscular route.