7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced bone marrow toxicity is p53-dependent

Effects of chromium (VI) on the toxicity of benzo[z]pyrene in 16HBE cells

Contamination of human habitats with complex mixtures of heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) is an important environmental and industrial health problem. Hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) and benzo(a)pyrene (B[a] P) are typical of the two, respectively. In recent decades, a great deal of research has focused on their carcinogenicity and mechanisms of action. However, few studies have been conducted to evaluate their combined effects on humans and cells, which has important implications for overall understanding of their toxicity and interaction. In the current study, the combined toxic effects of B[a] P and Cr(VI) were studied in human bronchial epithelial cells (16 HBE). We measured the genotoxic activity and epigenetic changes of these two toxicants alone and in combination on these cells and analyzed the difference between their single and combined toxicity. The results showed that B[a]P caused DNA damage in 16HBE cells in a concentration-dependent manner, while the presence of Cr(VI) showed a sharp decrease in DNA damage, and it inhibited the expression of genes related to base excision repair induced by B[a]P. In addition, Cr(VI) also reduced B[a]P-triggered epigenetic changes in 16HBE cells. In conclusion, the combined effect of B[a]P and Cr(VI) on 16HBE cells was less toxic than single B[a]P exposure, indicating that the combined toxicity of the two toxicants is partially antagonistic. Further research is required to explore the mechanism of this antagonism.

Cytochrome P4501B1 in bone marrow is co-expressed with key markers of mesenchymal stem cells. BMS2 cell line models PAH disruption of bone marrow niche development functions

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are ubiquitous pollutants that are metabolized to carcinogenic dihydrodiol epoxides (PAHDE) by cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1). This metabolism occurs in bone marrow (BM) mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), which sustain hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC). In BM, CYP1B1-mediated metabolism of 7, 12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) suppresses HSPC colony formation within 6 h, whereas benzo(a)pyrene (BP) generates protective cytokines. MSC, enriched from adherent BM cells, yielded the bone marrow stromal, BMS2, cell line. These cells express elevated basal CYP1B1 that scarcely responds to Ah receptor (AhR) inducers. BMS2 cells exhibit extensive transcriptome overlap with leptin receptor positive mesenchymal stem cells (Lepr+ MSC) that control the hematopoietic niche. The overlap includes CYP1B1 and the expression of HSPC regulatory factors (Ebf3, Cxcl12, Kitl, Csf1 and Gas6). MSC are large, adherent fibroblasts that sequester small HSPC and macrophage in the BM niche (Graphic abstract). High basal CYP1B1 expression in BMS2 cells derives from interactions between the Ah-receptor enhancer and proximal promoter SP1 complexes, boosted by autocrine signaling. PAH effects on BMS2 cells model Lepr+MSC niche activity. CYP1B1 metabolizes DMBA to PAHDE, producing p53-mediated mRNA increases, long after the in vivo HSPC suppression. Faster, direct p53 effects, favored by stem cells, remain possible PAHDE targets. However, HSPC regulatory factors remained unresponsive. BP is less toxic in BMS2 cells, but, in BM, CYP1A1 metabolism stimulates macrophage cytokines (Il1b > Tnfa> Ifng) within 6 h. Although absent from BMS2 and Lepr+MSC, their receptors are highly expressed. The impact of this cytokine signaling in MSC remains to be determined.

•

BMS2 and Lepr+MSC cells co-express CYP1B1 and 12 functional niche activity markers.

•

CYP1B1 mRNA in BMS2 cells depends on activation of SP1 coupled to an AhR enhancer unit.

•

DMBA metabolism by CYP1B1 activates p53 gene targets in BMS2 cells far more than BP.

•

HSPC suppression by CYP1B1 generation of PAHDE requires rapid, non-genomic targets.

•

BMS2 and Lepr+MSC share receptors activated by BP stimulation of macrophage cytokines.

Nano-selenium and its nanomedicine applications: a critical review

Traditional supplements of selenium generally have a low degree of absorption and increased toxicity. Therefore, it is imperative to develop innovative systems as transporters of selenium compounds, which would raise the bioavailability of this element and allow its controlled release in the organism. Nanoscale selenium has attracted a great interest as a food additive especially in individuals with selenium deficiency, but also as a therapeutic agent without significant side effects in medicine. This review is focused on the incorporation of nanotechnological applications, in particular exploring the possibilities of a more effective way of administration, especially in selenium-deficient organisms. In addition, this review summarizes the survey of knowledge on selenium nanoparticles, their biological effects in the organism, advantages, absorption mechanisms, and nanotechnological applications for peroral administration.

Cyp1b1-mediated suppression of lymphoid progenitors in bone marrow by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons coordinately impacts spleen and thymus: a selective role for the Ah Receptor

Bone marrow (BM) hematopoietic stem cells differentiate to common lymphoid progenitors (CLP) that emigrate to the thymus to form T cells or differentiate into immature B cells that then migrate to the spleen for maturation. Rapid in vivo suppression of BM progenitor cells by a single oral or intraperitoneal dose of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) subsequently decreased mature lymphoid populations in BM, spleen, and thymus. These suppressions depended on BM CYP1B1, but not on aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) activity. Suppression of pre-B colony formation at 6 h, correlated with subsequent decreases in mature BM, spleen, and thymus populations (48-168 h). Thymus T-cell ratios were unaffected, suggesting low local toxicity. DMBA treatment suppressed progenitor cells 24-h post treatment in wild type (WT), AhRb mice, but not in Cyp1b1-ko mice. The stem cell populations were sustained. Benzo(a)pyrene (BP) mediated a similar progenitor suppression up to 6 h, but reversal rapidly ensued. This recovery was absent in mice with a polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH)-resistant, AhRd genotype. This AhR-dependent progenitor recovery with BP induction accounts for the absence of suppression of B220+ BM and spleen populations at 48-168 h. However, DMBA and BP produced similar profiles for thymus cell suppression, independent of AhR genotype. Thus, lymphoid progenitors may exit the BM to the thymus prior to the BP reversal. This progenitor recovery is associated with elevated chemokines and cytokines that depend on AhR-mediated induction of CYP1A1. This response increased constitutively in Cyp1b1-ko BM, demonstrating that CYP1B1 metabolizes local stimulants that impact a basal progenitor protection process.

Spiritual Health in Nursing From the Viewpoint of Islam

Context

In order to gain a more detailed insight into the concept of spiritual health, a hybrid model of concept analysis was used to remove some of the ambiguity surrounding the conceptual meaning of spiritual health in Islamic and Iranian contexts. The purpose of this study was to clarify the meaning and nature of the spiritual health concept in the context of the practice of Islam among Iranian patients.

Evidence Acquisition

The current concept analysis was undertaken according to the modified traditional hybrid model, which consists of five phases: theoretical phase, initial fieldwork phase, initial analytical phase, and final fieldwork and final analytical phase. In the theoretical phases of the study, the concept of spiritual health was described based on a literature review of publications dealing with the Islamic viewpoint (years: from 2013 to 2014, Databases and search engines: Pubmed, SID, Magiran, Noormax, Google Scholar, Google and IranMex, Languages: English and Persian, Keywords: spiritual health AND (Islam OR Quran), spirituality AND (Islam OR Quran), complete human AND Islam, healthy heart (Galb Salim) AND Islam, healthy life (Hayat tayebeh) AND Islam, calm soul (Nafse motmaeneh) And Islam and healthy wisdom (Aghle Salim) AND Islam). Purposive sampling was conducted and nine participants were selected. Semi-structured interviews and observations were conducted periodically for data collection after obtaining informed consent. Observational, theoretical, and methodological notes were made. Then, using MAXQUDA 7 software, the data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Results

The relevant literature in the theoretical phase uncovered the attributes of the concept of spiritual health, including love of the Creator, duty-based life, religious rationality, psychological balance, and attention to afterlife. These attributes were explored in depth in later stages. Finally, the definition of spiritual health was developed.

Conclusions

Islam has a unique perspective on spiritual health as it encompasses all aspects of human beings. Thus, it is necessary to carefully study the difference between the Islamic concept of spiritual health and that of other religions and ideologies to design suitable and useful nursing care for Iranian patients that satisfy their spiritual needs.

CYP1B1 Enhances Cell Proliferation and Metastasis through Induction of EMT and Activation of Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling via Sp1 Upregulation

Cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) is a major E₂ hydroxylase involved in the metabolism of potential carcinogens. CYP1B1 expression has been reported to be higher in tumors compared to normal tissues, especially in hormone-related cancers including breast, ovary, and prostate tumors. To explore the role of CYP1B1 in cancer progression, we investigated the action of CYP1B1 in cells with increased CYP1B1 via the inducer 7,12-dimethylbenz[α]anthracene (DMBA) or an overexpression vector, in addition to decreased CYP1B1 via the inhibitor tetramethoxystilbene (TMS) or siRNA knockdown. We observed that CYP1B1 promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in MCF-7 and MCF-10A cells. To understand its molecular mechanism, we measured key oncogenic proteins including β-catenin, c-Myc, ZEB2, and matrix metalloproteinases following CYP1B1 modulation. CYP1B1 induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and activated Wnt/β-catenin signaling via upregulation of CTNNB1, ZEB2, SNAI1, and TWIST1. Sp1, a transcription factor involved in cell growth and metastasis, was positively regulated by CYP1B1, and suppression of Sp1 expression by siRNA or DNA binding activity using mithramycin A blocked oncogenic transformation by CYP1B1. Therefore, we suggest that Sp1 acts as a key mediator for CYP1B1 action. Treatment with 4-hydroxyestradiol (4-OHE₂), a major metabolite generated by CYP1B1, showed similar effects as CYP1B1 overexpression, indicating that CYP1B1 activity mediated various oncogenic events in cells. In conclusion, our data suggests that CYP1B1 promotes cell proliferation and metastasis by inducing EMT and Wnt/β-catenin signaling via Sp1 induction.

Analysis of dibenzo[def,p]chrysene-deoxyadenosine adducts in wild-type and cytochrome P450 1b1 knockout mice using stable-isotope dilution UHPLC-MS/MS

The polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), dibenzo[def,p]chrysene (DBC; also known as dibenzo[a,l]pyrene), is a potent carcinogen in animal models and a class 2A human carcinogen. Recent investigations into DBC-mediated toxicity identified DBC as a potent immunosuppressive agent similar to the well-studied immunotoxicant 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA). DBC, like DMBA, is bioactivated by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1B1 and forms the reactive metabolite DBC-11,12-diol-13,14-epoxide (DBCDE). DBCDE is largely responsible for the genotoxicity associated with DBC exposure. The immunosuppressive properties of several PAHs are also linked to genotoxic mechanisms. Therefore, this study was designed to identify DBCDE-DNA adduct formation in the spleen and thymus of wild-type and cytochrome P450 1b1 (Cyp1b1) knockout (KO) mice using a highly sensitive stable-isotope dilution UHPLC-MS/MS method. Stable-isotope dilution UHPLC-MS/MS identified the major DBC adducts (±)-anti-cis-DBCDE-dA and (±)-anti-trans-DBCDE-dA in the lung, liver, and spleen of both WT and Cyp1b1 KO mice. However, adduct formation in the thymus was below the level of quantitation for our method. Additionally, adduct formation in Cyp1b1 KO mice was significantly reduced compared to wild-type (WT) mice receiving DBC via oral gavage. In conclusion, the current study identifies for the first time DBCDE-dA adducts in the spleen of mice supporting the link between genotoxicity and immunosuppression, in addition to supporting previous studies identifying Cyp1b1 as the primary CYP involved in DBC bioactivation to DBCDE. The high levels of DBC-DNA adducts identified in the spleen, along with the known high levels of Cyp1b1 expression in this organ, supports further investigation into DBC-mediated immunotoxicity.

Protective effects of meat from lambs on selenium nanoparticle supplemented diet in a mouse model of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon-induced immunotoxicity

Increased environmental oxidative stress caused primarily by chemicals like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, plays significant role in human diseases. A representative compound, 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA), was used for modeling oxidative damages including the significant decrease of the antioxidant capacity of the blood. Selenium has antioxidant effects but with a narrow therapeutic window. In our current studies to avoid accidental overdose and toxicity selenium was given to meat-producing animals. The standard rodent diet of mice was replaced by meat from lambs either on standard or selenium-enriched diet. Selenium concentration of lamb meat was enhanced three times by nano-selenium administration and an increase in the antioxidant capacity of the blood of mice was measured after the indirect selenium supplementation. Protective effects were also observed against DMBA-induced immunotoxicity. Twice the amount of white blood cells and among them three times more phagocytes survived. Similarly, in their renewal system in bone marrow twice the amount of cells survived and regenerative capacity of granulopoiesis was four times higher than in control DMBA-damaged mice. Our findings suggest functional dietary benefits of lamb meat enriched with selenium by feeding lambs with nanoparticle selenium supplements.

Proximal events in 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced, stromal cell-dependent bone marrow B cell apoptosis: stromal cell-B cell communication and apoptosis signaling

Intercellular communication is an essential process in stimulating lymphocyte development and in activating and shaping an immune response. B cell development requires cell-to-cell contact with and cytokine production by bone marrow stromal cells. However, this intimate relationship also may be responsible for the transfer of death-inducing molecules to the B cells. 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA), a prototypical polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon, activates caspase-3 in pro/pre-B cells in a bone marrow stromal cell-dependent manner, resulting in apoptosis. These studies were designed to examine the hypothesis that an intrinsic apoptotic pathway is activated by DMBA and that the ultimate death signal is a DMBA metabolite generated by the stromal cells and transferred to the B cells. Although a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential did not occur in the DMBA/stromal cell-induced pathway, cytochrome c release was stimulated in B cells. Caspase-9 was activated, and formation of the apoptosome was required to support apoptosis, as demonstrated by the suppression of death in Apaf-1(fog) mutant pro-B cells. Investigation of signaling upstream of the mitochondria demonstrated an essential role for p53. Furthermore, DMBA-3,4-dihydrodiol-1,2-epoxide, a DNA-reactive metabolite of DMBA, was sufficient to upregulate p53, induce caspase-9 cleavage, and initiate B cell apoptosis in the absence of stromal cells, suggesting that production of this metabolite by the stromal cells and transfer to the B cells are proximal events in triggering apoptosis. Indeed, we provide evidence that metabolite transfer from bone marrow stromal cells occurs through membrane exchange, which may represent a novel communication mechanism between developing B cells and stromal cells.

Bone marrow lymphoid and myeloid progenitor cells are suppressed in 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) treated mice

In this study we used colony forming unit (CFU) assays to demonstrate rapid suppression (within 6h) of lymphoid (CFU-preB) and myeloid (CFU-GM) progenitor cells in DMBA-treated mice. The duration of these changes were consistent with the blood levels of DMBA and its metabolites that were achieved by either IP or oral DMBA administration. CFU-GM and CFU-preB activities returned to control levels by 2 and 7 days after oral DMBA exposure, respectively, but remained suppressed through 7 days after IP DMBA administration. The continued presence of low levels of DMBA in the bloodstream following IP administration was associated with sustained suppression of CFU-preB, total bone marrow lymphoid cells and peripheral blood lymphocytes. The changes noted above were not observed in Cyp1b1 null mice, demonstrating the need for local DMBA metabolism in the bone marrow by Cyp1b1 to impair bone marrow CFU-preB and CFU-GM. Furthermore, these data provide evidence that myeloid-lineage cells are restored more quickly than lymphoid-lineage cells after DMBA exposure.

Differential induction of CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 by benzo[a]pyrene in oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines and by tobacco smoking in oral mucosa

Polyaromatic hydrocarbons, including benzo[a]pyrene (BP), are major tobacco carcinogens. Their carcinogenic effects require metabolic activation by cytochrome p450 (CYP) enzymes. Relative CYP isoform expression is related to tissue-specific tobacco-related squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) susceptibility. There have been conflicting reports regarding relative CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 oral expression, and information regarding CYP1B1 expression in oral tissues is limited. To quantify BP- and tobacco-induced CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 expression in oral SCC cells and oral mucosa.

STUDY DESIGN

Real-time qPCR was performed to measure (1) BP-induced CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 mRNA expression in seven oral/other head and neck SCC cell lines (2) CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 mRNA expression in gingiva from 22 smokers and 24 nonsmokers. SCC lines exhibited either similar induction of both isoforms or preferential CYP1A1 induction (CYP1A1-to-CYP1B1 ratios 0.8-4.3). In contrast, gingival tissues from smokers exhibited preferential CYP1B1 induction. Marked interindividual variation in CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 expression was observed among smokers. In vitro conditions may not account for factors that modulate expression in vivo. Interindividual variation in inducible CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 expression may account in part for variation in tobacco-related oral SCC risk.

p53 and ATM/ATR regulate 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced immunosuppression

The tumor suppressor protein p53 is a transcription factor that regulates apoptotic responses produced by genotoxic agents. Previous studies have reported that 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced bone marrow toxicity is p53-dependent in vivo. Our laboratory has shown that DMBA-induced splenic immunosuppression is CYP1B1- and microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH)-dependent, demonstrating that the DMBA-3,4-dihydrodiol-1,2-epoxide metabolite (DMBA-DE) is probably responsible for DMBA-induced immunosuppression. DMBA-DE is known to bind to DNA leading to strand breaks. Therefore, we postulated that a p53 pathway is required for DBMA-induced immunosuppression. In the present studies, our data show that activated p53 accumulated in the nuclei of spleen cells in WT and AhR-null mice after DMBA treatment, but not in CYP1B1-null or mEH-null mice. These results suggest that DMBA activates p53 in a CYP1B1- and mEH-dependent manner in vivo but is not AhR-dependent. Ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) and ATM and Rad3-related protein (ATR) are sensors for DNA damage that signal p53 activation. Increased ATM, phospho-ATM (Ser(1987)), and ATR levels were observed after DMBA treatment in WT, p53-null, and AhR-null mice but not in CYP1B1-null or mEH-null mice. Therefore, ATM and ATR seem to act upstream of p53 as sensors of DNA damage. Ex vivo immune function studies demonstrated that DMBA-induced splenic immunosuppression is p53-dependent at doses of DMBA that produce immunosuppression in the absence of cytotoxicity. High-dose DMBA cytotoxicity may be associated with p53-independent pathways. This study provides new insights into the requirement of genotoxicity for DMBA-induced immunosuppression in vivo and highlights the roles of ATM/ATR in signaling p53.

Benzo(a)pyrene and 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthrecene differentially affect bone marrow cells of the lymphoid and myeloid lineages

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are common environmental contaminants that are carcinogenic and immunosuppressive. Benzo(a)pyrene (BP) and 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) are two prototypic PAHs known to impair the cell-mediated and humoral immune responses. We have previously shown that, in C57BL/6J mice, total bone marrow (BM) cellularity decreased two-fold following intraperitoneal DMBA treatment but not BP treatment. Here, we have used flow cytometry to demonstrate that BP and DMBA differentially alter the lymphoid and myeloid lineages. Following DMBA treatment, the pro/pre B-lymphocytes (B220(lo)/IgM(-)) and the immature B-lymphocytes (B220(lo)/IgM(+)) significantly decreased, while the mature B-lymphocytes (B220(hi)/IgM(+)) remained unaffected. In contrast, BP treatment decreased the pro/pre B-lymphocytes, and did not affect the immature B-lymphocytes or mature B-lymphocytes. The Gr-1(+) cells of the myeloid lineage were depleted 50% following DMBA treatment and only minimally depleted following BP treatment. Interestingly, the monocytes (7/4(+)1A8(lo)) and neutrophils (7/4(+)1A8(hi)) within this Gr-1(+) population were differentially affected by these PAHs. Monocytes and neutrophils were depleted following DMBA treatment whereas neutrophils decreased and monocytes increased following BP treatment. Although TNFalpha and CYP1B1 are implicated as essential mediators of hypocellularity, the similar induction of TNFalpha mRNA and CYP1B1 mRNA in the BM by BP and DMBA suggests that they are not limiting factors in mediating the different effects of these PAHs. Given that similar amounts of BP and DMBA reach the BM when administered intraperitoneally, their differential effects on the lymphoid and myeloid lineages probably stem from differences in reactive metabolites such as PAH quinones and PAH-dihydrodiol-epoxides.

Cytochrome P450 1B1 Is Required for 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)-anthracene (DMBA) Induced Spleen Cell Immunotoxicity

7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) is a potent carcinogen that induces immunosuppression of both humoral and cell-mediated immunity in mice and other species. Previous studies have shown that CYP1B1 is required for bone marrow toxicity produced by DMBA in mice. Therefore, the purpose of these studies was to determine whether CYP1B1 was required for spleen cell immunotoxicity. Female C57BL/6N wild-type (WT) and CYP1B1 knockout (-/-) mice were treated with 0, 17, 50, or 150 mg/kg (cumulative dose) DMBA in corn oil by oral gavage once a day for five days. Several immunotoxicological assays were used to assess the effects of DMBA on systemic immunity. These included the in vitro T-dependent antibody response to sheep red blood cells (SRBC) measured using a direct plaque forming cell (PFC) assay, T- and B-cell mitogenesis induced by Con A and LPS, and nonspecific cell-mediated immunity was evaluated using an NK cytotoxicity assay. In addition, lymphocyte subpopulations were measured by flow cytometry using specific cell surface markers. Following five days of DMBA treatment, the body weights and spleen cell surface markers of the WT and CYP1B1 (-/-) mice showed no significant changes. A decrease in NK activity was found at the 50 mg/kg DMBA dose in WT mice, but not in the CYP1B1 (-/-) mice. Interestingly, at the 150 mg/kg dose of DMBA, CYP1B1 null mice had decreased NK activity, whereas WT mice did not. The SRBC PFC response demonstrated that the IgM antibody response was suppressed by DMBA in WT mice in a dose-dependent manner (significant at 50 and 150 mg/kg). However, there were no changes in the SRBC PFC responses in any DMBA test group in the CYP1B1 (-/-) mice. Similarly, while DMBA suppressed B- and T-cell mitogenesis at the 50 and 150 mg/kg dose levels in C57BL/6N WT mice, no effect was seen in CYP1B1 (-/-) mice. Thus, CYP1B1 appears to be critical for the immunosuppression of DMBA in mice, suggesting a role for bioreactive metabolites in the spleen cell immunotoxicity produced by DMBA.

Close proximity, but not VLA-4-dependent adherence between pre-B cells and bone marrow stromal cells, is required for DMBA-induced apoptosis of pre-B cells in vitro

We have previously reported that 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) induced apoptosis in precursor B lymphocytes (pre-B cells) only when they were co-cultured with bone marrow stromal (BMS) cells. The goal of this research was to determine whether this process was dependent on the adherence of the pre-B cells and stromal cells. Conditioned media from DMBA-treated BMS cells induced apoptosis in pre-B cells, but only when the pre-B cells were co-cultured with stromal cells. This result suggested that stromal cells may release a soluble factor that initiates apoptosis, but their presence was still required for apoptosis. When the stromal cells and pre-B cells were separated with a membrane filter insert, DMBA-induced apoptosis of the pre-B cells was blocked suggesting that contact with or close proximity to stromal cells was required for apoptosis. The addition of an anti-VLA-4 Mab disrupted adherence of pre-B cells to the stromal cell monolayer, but did not diminish the numbers of apoptotic pre-B cells. The results of this study support the hypothesis stromal cells and pre-B cells must be in close proximity for apoptosis to occur, but direct interaction via VLA-4 and VCAM-1 is unlikely to be required for this response.

Flow cytometric analyses on lineage-specific cell surface antigens of rat bone marrow to seek potential myelotoxic biomarkers: status after repeated dose of 5-fluorouracil

Flow cytometry (FCM) analysis of CD45, CD45R, CD71 and CD90 expression on Crj:CD(SD)IGS rat bone marrow cells was done after 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) administration to examine whether these lineage-specific cell surface antigens could be myelotoxic biomarkers. The expression of CD45 (CD45Low and CD45High: differing in expression intensity), CD45R, CD71 and CD90 on bone marrow cells coincided with previous reports. After repeated administration of 5-FU at 50 mg/kg/day for 1-5 days, a time-dependent decrease in cells expressing CD45Low, CD71 and CD90 was observed, whereas a decrease in the CD45High expressing cells was not observed. Furthermore, the decrease was dose-dependent in CD45Low, CD71 and CD90 expressing cells after administration of 5-FU between 2 and 50 mg/kg/day for 4 days. After 4-day repeated dose of 5-FU at 50 mg/kg/day followed by a recovery period, the change in number of CD45Low, CD45R, CD71 and CD90 cells to the bottom and in recovery showed different kinetics. In contrast, the change in number of CD45High cells was minimal, and relatively stable after 5-FU administration. The results suggest that CD45, CD45R and CD90 could each be potential myelotoxic biomarkers for a total proportion of common leukocytes including T- and B-lymphocytes, for a total proportion of B-lymphocytes, and for a total proportion of T-lymphocytes plus immature B-lymphocytes and common progenitor cells, respectively. CD71 could be a single myelotoxic biomarker for erythroid cells. Further study is required for isolation of each of the myelo-lymphocytic lineages. However, the present study showed that FCM analysis could be available to assess the lineage or differentiation stage-specific response, such as the different extent and time-course or the kinetics (the time to reach the bottom and to recover to the normal level) of myelotoxic effect in rat bone marrow.

Characterization of a Carcinogenesis Rat Model of Ovarian Preneoplasia and Neoplasia

Animal models of ovarian cancer are crucial for understanding the pathogenesis of the disease and for testing new treatment strategies. A model of ovarian carcinogenesis in the rat was modified and improved to yield ovarian preneoplastic and neoplastic lesions that pathogenetically resemble human ovarian cancer. A significantly lower dose (2 to 5 mug per ovary) of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) was applied to the one ovary to maximally preserve its structural integrity. DMBA-induced mutagenesis was additionally combined with repetitive gonadotropin hormone stimulation to induce multiple cycles of active proliferation of the ovarian surface epithelium. Animals were treated in three arms of different doses of DMBA alone or followed by hormone administration. Comparison of the DMBA-treated ovaries with the contralateral control organs revealed the presence of epithelial cell origin lesions at morphologically distinct stages of preneoplasia and neoplasia. Their histopathology and path of dissemination to other organs are very similar to human ovarian cancer. Hormone cotreatment led to an increased lesion severity, indicating that gonadotropins may promote ovarian cancer progression. Point mutations in the Tp53 and Ki-Ras genes were detected that are also characteristic of human ovarian carcinomas. Additionally, an overexpression of estrogen and progesterone receptors was observed in preneoplastic and early neoplastic lesions, suggesting a role of these receptors in ovarian cancer development. These data indicate that this DMBA animal model gives rise to ovarian lesions that closely resemble human ovarian cancer and it is adequate for additional studies on the mechanisms of the disease and its clinical management.

7-12 Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced bone marrow hypocellularity is dependent on signaling through both the TNFR and PKR

In addition to being carcinogenic, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are known to cause deleterious effects on the immune system, including a marked reduction in bone marrow granulocytes and B lymphocytes. The molecular mechanisms underlying bone marrow hypocellularity are incompletely understood. Hematopoiesis is governed by the production of cytokines and the resultant signaling pathways that they initiate. Our hypothesis was that PAHs may disrupt cytokine production in the bone marrow resulting in the perturbation in bone marrow cellularity observed after PAH administration. TNF-alpha and IFN-gamma are two cytokines that are involved in the regulation of hematopoiesis. Based on observations made in previous research, we sought to determine if the effects of 7-12 dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) on the murine bone marrow were mediated through the actions of these molecules. Transgenic mice that were null for either IFN-gamma or TNF-alpha receptors were injected with DMBA and the resulting bone marrow cellularity compared with wild-type mice. We observed that tumor necrosis factor alpha receptor (TNFR) null mice were protected against DMBA-induced bone marrow hypocellularity, while IFN-gamma null mice were not. In addition, we found that dsRNA-dependent protein kinase (PKR) null mice were also protected from DMBA-induced hypocellularity. PKR is an intracellular signaling molecule that has been demonstrated to be activated by TNFR-mediated signaling. Furthermore, we observed upregulation of PKR in the bone marrow after DMBA administration that was dependent on signaling through TNFR. These results point to a role for TNFR-dependent signaling, operating at least in part via PKR activation, as a mechanism for DMBA-induced bone marrow toxicity.

Cytochrome P450-dependent toxicity of environmental polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons towards human macrophages

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo(a)pyrene (BP) are potent immunosuppressive environmental contaminants acting on lymphocytes and monocytes. To establish whether differentiated macrophages, which play a crucial role in innate and acquired immunity, can also constitute major cellular targets, we have characterized PAH effects towards primary human macrophages. BP-treatment was found to dramatically alter their functional capacities and to trigger a caspase- and mitochondrion-related apoptosis, associated with down-regulation of the survival factors c-FLIP(L) and Bcl-X(L) and up-regulation of the pro-apoptotic factor p53. Such deleterious effects were associated with BP metabolite production, whose inhibition by the cytochrome P-450 1A1 inhibitor alpha-naphthoflavone fully abolished BP toxicity. In contrast to BP, the related halogenated arylhydrocarbon 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin, known to be poorly metabolized if any, only minimally affected macrophages. Overall, these data provide evidence for a cytochrome P-450-dependent toxicity of PAHs towards human differentiated macrophages, which may contribute to their immunosuppressive effects.

Role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated induction of the CYP1 enzymes in environmental toxicity and cancer

The mammalian CYP1A1, CYP1A2, and CYP1B1 genes (encoding cytochromes P450 1A1, 1A2, and 1B1, respectively) are regulated by the aromatic hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). The CYP1 enzymes are responsible for both metabolically activating and detoxifying numerous polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and aromatic amines present in combustion products. Many substrates for CYP1 enzymes are AHR ligands. Differences in AHR affinity between inbred mouse strains reflect variations in CYP1 inducibility and clearly have been shown to be associated with differences in risk of toxicity or cancer caused by PAHs and arylamines. Variability in the human AHR affinity exists, but differences in human risk of toxicity or cancer related to AHR activation remain unproven. Mouse lines having one or another of the Cyp1 genes disrupted have shown paradoxical effects; in the test tube or in cell culture these enzymes show metabolic activation of PAHs or arylamines, whereas in the intact animal these enzymes are sometimes more important in the role of detoxification than metabolic potentiation. Intact animal data contradict pharmaceutical company policies that routinely test drugs under development; if a candidate drug shows CYP1 inducibility, further testing is generally discontinued for fear of possible toxic or carcinogenic effects. In the future, use of "humanized" mouse lines, containing a human AHR or CYP1 allele in place of the orthologous mouse gene, is one likely approach to show that the AHR and the CYP1 enzymes in human behave similarly to that in mouse.

Bone marrow cytotoxicity of benzo[a]pyrene is dependent on CYP1B1 but is diminished by Ah receptor-mediated induction of CYP1A1 in liver

We have previously used CYP1B1-null mice to demonstrate that dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) requires CYP1B1 for bone marrow (BM) toxicity. Benzo(a)pyrene (BP), a much more potent Ah receptor ligand, shows very different responses that nevertheless depend on CYP1B1. Wild-type (AhR(b)) mice treated with DMBA for 48 h exhibit a large loss in BM cellularity and disruption of marrow structure that is not seen for BP treatment. In congenic mice with a low affinity AhR (AhR(d)), DMBA and BP are equally toxic to the BM whereas AhR(d) x CYP1B1-null mice are fully protected. In situ hybridization demonstrates that CYP1B1 mRNA is constitutively expressed in marrow cells and is induced by PAHs according to their AhR affinity (BP>DMBA), including lower levels in AhR(d) mice. Importantly, expression of CYP1A1 mRNA was undetectable in BM. In wild-type mice, BP treatment leads to a fivefold greater induction of hepatic CYP1A1 than that of DMBA treatment. Neither induction occurs in AhR(d) mice. Thus, hepatic metabolism may prevent BP from reaching the BM, where it can be bioactivated by CYP1B1. Flow cytometric analyses of BM cells showed that there were decreases in granulocytes and lymphocytes following DMBA treatment, but not after BP treatment. These data suggest that there is an inverse relationship between liver metabolism and BM toxicity resulting from limitations on the delivery of PAH to CYP1B1 present in BM, where only very low constitutive levels are needed.