Interim analysis of post-marketing surveillance of ravulizumab for paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria in Japan

Ravulizumab is a long-acting C5 inhibitor available for treating paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). Post-marketing surveillance (PMS) was implemented following its approval in September 2019 in Japan. We report safety data obtained through to December 2021 for 218 patients and effectiveness data for 194 patients (182 switched from eculizumab and 12 complement inhibitor-naïve). Over a median follow-up of 74.4 weeks, 193 adverse events (AEs) were reported in 66/218 patients (30.3%; incidence 72.73/100 patient-years). The two most frequent AEs were anemia and pyrexia (each 3.01/100 patient-years). The incidence of serious AEs was 36.93/100 patient-years. In patients who switched from eculizumab, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and hemoglobin (Hb) levels were maintained over 26 weeks of ravulizumab treatment. In complement inhibitor-naïve patients, LDH decreased significantly and Hb increased significantly over 26 weeks of ravulizumab treatment. These data for Japanese patients with PNH who were naïve to complement inhibitors and patients who switched from eculizumab show that the safety and effectiveness of ravulizumab are consistent with the published clinical trial data. However, transfusion independence was less likely in patients with bone marrow failure. Further follow-up data from this PMS will help to elucidate the long-term clinical safety and effectiveness of ravulizumab for treating PNH.

Antithrombotic Effect of MCI-9042, a New Antiplatelet Agent on Experimental Thrombosis Models

The antithrombotic effect of MCI-9042, (±)-2-(dimethylamino)-1-[[o-(m-methoxyphenethyl)phenoxy] methyl] ethyl hydrogen succinate hydrochloride was investigated in three different experimental thrombosis models in animals. Simultaneous injection of serotonin and collagen into the tail vein in mice induced acute pulmonary thromboembolic death. MCI-9042 reduced the mortality in a dose dependent manner and its ED50 value was 1.9 mg/kg po. Ticlopidine (TCP) which is a positive reference compound as an antithrombotic drug reduced the mortality at doses of 10 mg/kg po and above. Cyproheptadine (CPH) and ketanserin (KTS) which are S2-serotonergic antagonists were also effective on the reduction of mortality. In mesenteric arterial thrombosis induced by electric stimulation in mice, MCI-9042 prolonged the occlusion time resulted from platelet thrombus formation (PD50: 23 mg/kg po). CPH and KTS prolonged the occlusion time as potent as MCI-9042, but TCP prolonged the occlusion time only at the high doses of 100 mg/kg po and above. In experimental arterial thrombosis which generated in implanted polyethylene tubing, MCI-9042 reduced the incidence of thrombus formation in the tubing and its ED50 value was 18 mg/kg po. TCP was also effective in this model with an ED50 of 170 mg/kg po. The present results lead to the consideration that serotonin plays a more important role in thrombus formation than that conjectured formerly, and suggest that MCI-9042 becomes a new kind of antithrombotic drug with S2-serotonergic receptor antagonism.

MCI–9042, a New Antiplatelet Agent Is a Selective S2-Serotonergic Receptor Antagonist

MCI–9042, (±)–1–[2–[2–(3–methoxyphenyl)ethyl]phenoxy]–3–(dimethylamino)–2–propyl hydrogen succinate hydrochloride inhibited platelet aggregation induced by collagen and secondary aggregation by ADP or epinephrine at 10−6 M level in platelets of various species. The antiplatelet effect of MCI–9042 was potentiated in aggregation induced by a combination of serotonin with collagen. IC50 value of human platelet aggregation by the serotonin plus collagen was 1.0 × 10−7 M. MCI–9042 inhibited serotonin release accompanied with collagen-induced platelet aggregation, while it did not affect serotonin uptake into platelet. MCI–9042 also potently inhibited the S2-serotonergic receptor-mediated contraction of rat caudal artery by serotonin in a competitive manner with a Ki value of 1.79 × 10–8 M, while Si receptor- or adrenergic receptor-mediated vasoconstriction was inhibited more weakly. Platelet adhesiveness, c-AMP level in platelets and the conversion of arachidonic acid to thromboxane A2 were not influenced by MCI–9042. These results suggest that MCI–9042 is a selective S2-serotonergic receptor antagonist, exhibiting the inhibition of S2-serotonergic potentiated platelet aggregation and the suppression of blood vessel constriction mediated by S2-serotonergic receptor.

Voluntary running exercise attenuates the progression of endothelial dysfunction and arterial calcification in ovariectomized rats

AIM

Loss of oestrogen synthesis capacity after menopause contributes to increases in arterial stiffness and calcification. Exercise training improves arterial stiffness and calcification. However, the mechanism of exercise training-induced improvement of arterial stiffness and calcification remains unclear.

METHOD

We examined the mechanism by using aortas of sham-operated rats (sham control; SC), ovariectomized rats (OVX control; OC), OVX plus treatment with vitamin D(3) plus nicotine (VDN) rats (OV sedentary; OVSe), which is an animal model of endothelial dysfunction and arterial calcification, and voluntary running wheel exercise for 8 weeks plus OVX plus VDN rats (OV exercise; OVEx).

RESULTS

The arterial tissue calcium and endothelin-1 (ET-1: a vasoconstrictor peptide and a potent regulator of arterial calcification) levels were significantly higher in OVSe rats compared with the SC and OC rats, whereas these levels in the OVEx rats were significantly lower than in the OVSe rats. Additionally, arterial expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), which is an enzyme that produces nitric oxide (NO: a vasodilator substance), was reduced in OVSe rats. However, exercise training prevented the decrease in eNOS expression. Moreover, there was a significant positive correlation between arterial calcium level and arterial ET-1 level.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that exercise training-induced improvement of ET-1 and NO prevents the impairment of endothelial function after menopause in females, and this improvement may result in less arterial calcification.

Interference of Long-Distance Movement of Grapevine berry inner necrosis virus in Transgenic Plants Expressing a Defective Movement Protein of Apple chlorotic leaf spot virus

ABSTRACT Transgenic Nicotiana occidentalis plants expressing a movement protein (P50) and partially functional deletion mutants (DeltaA and DeltaC) of the Apple chlorotic leaf spot virus (ACLSV) showed resistance to Grapevine berry inner necrosis virus (GINV). The resistance is highly effective and GINV was below the level of detection in both inoculated and uninoculated upper leaves. In contrast, GINV accumulated in inoculated and uninoculated leaves of nontransgenic (NT) plants and transgenic plants expressing a dysfunctional mutant (DeltaG). On the other hand, in some plants of a transgenic plant line expressing a deletion mutant (DeltaA', deletion of the C-terminal 42 amino acids), GINV could spread in inoculated leaves, but not move into uninoculated leaves. In a tissue blot hybridization analysis of DeltaA'-plants inoculated with GINV, virus could be detected in leaf blade, midribs, and petiole of inoculated leaves, but neither in stems immediately above inoculated leaves nor in any tissues of uninoculated leaves. Immunohistochemical analysis of GINV-inoculated leaves of DeltaA'-plants showed that GINV could invade into phloem parenchyma cells through bundle sheath of minor veins, suggesting that the long-distance transport of GINV might be inhibited between the phloem cells and sieve element (and/or within sieve element) rather than bundle sheath-phloem interfaces. Immunogold electron microscopy using an anti-P50 antiserum showed that P50 accumulated on the parietal layer of sieve elements and on sieve plates. The results suggested that resistance in P50-transgenic plants to GINV is due to the interference of both long-distance and cell-to-cell movement of the virus.

Determination of first cleavage plane: the relationships between the orientation of the mitotic apparatus for first cleavage and the position of meiotic division-related structures in starfish eggs

In order to understand when the orientation of the first cleavage plane is fixed along the animal-vegetal axis in starfish eggs, the behavior of the sperm aster was examined by indirect immunofluorescence staining. After duplication, the sperm aster organizes the mitotic apparatus for first cleavage perpendicular to the cleavage plane. The sperm aster located in the egg periphery just after fertilization and moved to the site close to the animal pole rather than the egg center by meiosis II. At early metaphase II, duplication of the sperm aster was detected but the axis of the resultant sperm diaster randomly pointed. Subsequently, its axis had already turned perpendicular to the animal-vegetal axis before pronucleus fusion. These results indicate that the orientation processes of the sperm diaster consist of positioning before its duplication and successive determining its azimuth. Furthermore, the azimuth and position of the mitotic apparatus for first cleavage did not change by shifting or eliminating the meiotic division-related structures such as the germinal vesicle, meiotic spindle, and female pronucleus by micromanipulation. These results show that none of them determines the first cleavage plane. Therefore, we discuss the pointing mechanism of the first cleavage plane without the influence of these meiotic division-related structures.

Assessment of Proliferative Potentials of Canine Osteosarcomas and Chondrosarcomas by MIB-1 Immunohistochemistry and Bromodeoxyuridine Incorporation

The proliferative potential of 17 canine osteosarcomas (OSs) (13 osteoblastic, two anaplastic, one fibroblastic and one chondroblastic), 18 chondrosarcomas (CSs) (13 mesenchymal and five ordinary), three osteomas, and one chondroma was evaluated immunohistochemically by labelling Ki-67 antigen with MIB-1 antibody, and incorporated bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) with anti-BrdU antibody. The location of BrdU-positive cells in OSs and CSs was similar to that of MIB-1 positive cells, and the mean value of the BrdU labelling index (BrdU LI) and the MIB-1 positive index (MIB-1 PI) in each case were significantly correlated (rs = 0.942, P < 0.05 with Spearman rank correlation coefficient; r = 0.779 P < 0.05 with linear regression analysis). The mean MIB-1 PI of OSs was 29.5%, which was approximately 2.5 times that of CSs, and the highest MIB-1 PI was 34.8% +/- 1.8 S.E.M. in areas without osteoid. In CS cases, the survival rate after 24 months was significantly higher than in OS cases. The high MIB-1 PI therefore supports the view that OSs are clinically more aggressive than CSs in dogs. On the other hand, the highest MIB-1 PI values of mesenchymal CS components occurred in transitional areas, which were composed of poorly differentiated cells embedded in a myxomatous matrix between the chondroidal and mesenchymal regions. The MIB-1 PI was 21.3% +/- 3.0 S.E.M. P < 0.001 in transitional areas. Proliferative markers may be useful in diagnosis and prognosis.

Effects of combustion temperature on PCDD/Fs formation in laboratory-scale fluidized-bed incineration

Combustion experiments in a laboratory-scale fluidized-bed reactor were performed to elucidate the effects of combustion temperature on PCDD/Fs formation during incineration of model wastes with poly(vinyl chloride) or sodium chloride as a chlorine source and copper chloride as a catalyst. Each temperature of primary and secondary combustion zones in the reactor was set independently to 700, 800, and 900 degrees C using external electric heaters. The PCDD/Fs concentration is reduced as the temperature of the secondary combustion zone increases. It is effective to keep the temperature of the secondary combustion zone high enough to reduce their release during the waste incineration. On the other hand, as the temperature of the primary combustion zone rises, the PCDD/Fs concentration also increases. Lower temperature of the primary combustion zone results in less PCDD/Fs concentration in these experimental conditions. This result is probably related to the devolatilization rate of the solid waste in the primary combustion zone. The temperature decrease slows the devolatilization rate and promotes mixing of oxygen and volatile matters from the solid waste. This contributes to completing combustion reactions, resulting in reducing the PCDD/Fs concentration.

Synthesis and pharmacological activity of 4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-N-[(2S,4S)-1-ethyl-2-hydroxymethyl-4- pyrrolidinyl]benzamide (TKS159) and its optical isomers

Of 4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-N-(1-ethyl-2-hydroxymethyl-4- pyrrolidinyl)benzamide, four optical isomers, (2S,4S)-1 (TKS159), (2S,4R)-25, (2R,4S)-26 and (2R,4R)-27, were prepared from optically active 4-amino-1-ethyl-2-hydroxymethylpyrrolidine di-p-toluenesulfonate [(2S,4S)-14, (2S,4R)-17, (2R,4S)-20 and (2R,4R)-23, respectively]. The requisites, (2S,4S)-14, (2S,4R)-17, (2R,4S)-20 and (2R,4R)-23, were prepared from a commercially available trans-4-hydroxy-L-proline. The absolute configurations of (2S,4S)-1 (TKS159), (2S,4R)-25, (2R,4S)-26 and (2R,4R)-27 were spectroscopically determined. Of the benzamide derivatives, four optical isomers, (2S,4S)-1, (2S,4R)-25, (2R,4S)-26 and (2R,4R)-27, showed a relatively potent affinity for 5-hydroxytryptamine 4 (5-HT4) receptors in a radioligand binding assay ([3H]GR113808). The activities of 25-27 were less effective than that of 1 for the gastric emptying of a phenol red semisolid meal in rats. All this suggests that the most potent of the isomers was 4-amino-5-chloro-2-methoxy-N-[(2S,4S)-1-ethyl-2- hydroxymethyl-4-pyrrolidinyl]benzamide (1).

[Thiamine Hydrochloride Solution Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of thiamine hydrochloride solution was examined for the preparation of the "Thiamine Hydrochloride Solution Reference Standard (Control 971)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: assay by HPLC, 100.8%; spectrophotometric assay, 99.8%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized to be the Thiamine Hydrochloride Solution Reference Standard of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Kallidinogenase Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The "Kallidinogenase Reference Standard (Control 971)" of National Institute of Health Sciences was prepared. The kallidinogenase potency of the standard material was assayed against the 2nd Kallidinogenase Reference Standard (Control 854) by the enzyme assay method using H-D-valyl-L-leucyl-L-arginine-p-nitro-anilide as the substrate. The potency of the Kallidinogenase Reference Standard material thus obtained was defined as 119 unit per ampoule.

[Cholecalciferol Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material for cholecalciferol was examined for preparation of the "Cholecalciferol Reference Standard (Control 971)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: melting point, 83.8 degrees C; UV and infrared spectra, the same as those for JP Cholecalciferol Reference Standard (Control 945), respectively; specific absorbance at 265 nm, E1 cm 1% = 485; optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +107.4 degrees; thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), no impurity was detected; assay, 98.9% by HPLC. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Cholecalciferol Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Science.

[Potassium Sucrose Octa Sulfate Reference Standard (Control 961) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of potassium sucrose octa sulfate was examined for the preparation of the "Potassium Sucrose Octa Sulfate Reference Standard (Control 961)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: infrared spectrum, the same as that of the Potassium Sucrose Octa Sulfate Reference Standard (Control 901); high-performance liquid chromatography, one impurity was detected; water content, 8.1%; assay of sucrose octa sulfate, 99.6%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized to be the Potassium Sucrose Octa Sulfate Reference Standard of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Prednisolone Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of prednisolone was examined for the preparation of the "Prednisolone Reference Standard (Control 971)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: melting point, 238.4 degrees C (decomposition); infrared spectrum, the same as that of the Prednisolone Reference Standard (Control 911); UV spectrum, lambda max = 243 nm; specific absorbance, E1 cm 1% (243 nm) = 414.8; loss on drying, 0.06%; thin-layer chromatography, one impurity was detected; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), 4 to 5 impurities were detected and the total amount was estimated to be about 0.51%; assay by HPLC, 100.6%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Prednisolone Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Retinol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 971) and Retinol Palmitate Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The "Retinol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 971)" and "Retinol Palmitate Reference Standard (Control 971)" of National Institute of Health Sciences using the assay of vitamin A ester were prepared. The proposed materials were evaluated in collaboration with four laboratories. Analytical data obtained were as follows. 1) The purities of retinol acetate and retinol palmitate measured by HPLC were 99.9 +/- 0.06% and 94.5 +/- 0.06%, respectively. 2) ultraviolet spectrum of retinol acetate and retinol palmitate showed the lambda max at 326-327 nm. 3) The difference in relative extinction of retinol acetate and retinol palmitate at 300 nm, 310 nm, 320 nm, 330 nm, 340 nm and 350 nm are within the range provided in JPXIII. 4) The contents of retinol acetate and retinol palmitate were 52,000 IU/g and 52,200 IU/g, respectively. Based on the above results, these proposed materials were authorized to be the Reference Standards of the National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Thrombin Reference Standard (Control 961) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The "Thrombin Reference Standard (Control 961)" of National Institute of Health Sciences was prepared. The precision of filling into ampoule was about 1% as C.V. The content of a-thrombin was about 87%. The thrombin potency of the standard material was assayed against the Thrombin Reference Standard (Control 8710) according to the method of JP XIII and the potency was 1033 +/- 59 unit/ampoule. From the results, the potency of the proposed material for Thrombin Reference Standard was defined as 1,030 units per ampoule.

[Ergocalciferol Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material for ergocalciferol was examined for preparation of the "Ergocalciferol Reference Standard (Control 971)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: melting point, 116.7 degrees C; UV and infrared spectra, the same as those for JP Cholecalciferol Reference Standard; specific absorbance, E1 cm 1% = 461(265 nm); optical rotation, [alpha]D20 = +102.5 degrees; thin-layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), no impurity was detected; assay, 102.4% by HPLC. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Ergocalciferol Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Chlormadinone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 961) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material for chlormadinone acetate was tested for preparation of the "Chlormadinone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 961)" of National Institute of Health Sciences. Analytical data obtained were as follows: melting point, 215. 3 degrees C; UV spectrum, lambda max = 283.5 nm; IR spectrum, the same as that of JP Chlormadinone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 885); optical rotation, [alpha]20D = -13.0 degrees; thin-layer chromatography, one impurity was detected; high-performance liquid chromatography, two impurities were detected; loss on drying, 0.01%; assay, 99.4% by spectrophotometry and 99.5% by HPLC. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Chlormadinone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 961) of National Institute of Health Sciences (Japanese Pharmacopoeia).

[Epinephrine Bitartrate Reference Standard (Control 951) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material for epinephrine bitartrate was tested for preparation of the "Epinephrine Bitartrate Reference Standard (Control 951)" of National Institute of Health Sciences. Analytical data obtained were as follows: melting point, 148.6 degrees C (decomposition); UV spectrum, lambda max = 279 nm; IR spectrum, the same as that of JP Epinephrine Bitartrate Reference Standard (Control 792); optical rotation, [alpha]20D = -52.8 degrees; thin-layer chromatography, one impurity was detected; high-performance liquid chromatography, no impurity was detected; loss on drying, 0.01%; assay, 99.6% by potentiometric titration, 100.3% by spectrophotometry. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Epinephrine Bitartrate Reference Standard (Control 951) of National Institute of Health Sciences (Japanese Pharmacopoeia).

[Application of thermogravimetry to loss on drying test and water-content determination of drugs]

Thermogravimetry, one of the techniques of thermal analysis, was applied to the quality control of drug raw materials as a "Loss on Drying" or for "Water Content Determination". Twenty two kinds of drugs were selected for the comparison of the applicability of thermogravimetry with that of Loss on Drying Test and/or Water Content Determination by the Karl-Fisher method. In all kinds of drugs, it was ascertained that the results with thermogravimetry agreed well with those obtained by Loss on Drying test and/or Karl-Fisher method. In conclusion, thermogravimetry can be used as a substitute for the Loss on Drying test in cases where drug possess a water bound strongly. Further, thermogravimetry can be utilized for some drugs to which the Karl-Fisher method cannot be applied due to their insolubility in Karl-Fisher reagents.

[dl-Camphor Reference Standard (Control 961) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of dl-camphor was examined for the preparation of the "dl-Camphor Reference Standard (Control 961)" of National Institute of Health Sciences. Analytical data obtained are as follows: UV spectrum, lambda max = 290 nm; IR spectrum, the same as that of the present JP Camphor Reference Standard (Control 953); melting point, 179.1 degrees C; purity test by gas-chromatography (GC), three kinds of impurities were detected; assay by GC, 99.8%. Based on the above results, the candidate raw material was authorized as the dl-Camphor Reference standard (Control 961) National Institute of Health Sciences (Japanese Pharmacopoeia).

[Hydrocortisone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 961) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of hydrocortisone acetate was tested for the preparation of the "Hydrocortisone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 961)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: IR spectrum, specific absorption wave numbers at 3428, 1748, 1723, 1631, and 1375 cm-1; specific absorbance, E1cm1% (242 nm) = 406; thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 0.05 microgram; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), 2-3 impurities were detected and the amount of the total impurities was estimated to be about 0.2%; assay by HPLC, 100.7%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Reference Standard (Control 961).

[Estradiol Reference Standard (Control 961) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material for estradiol was examined for preparation of the "Estradiol Reference Standard (Control 961)" of National Institute of Health Sciences. Analytical data obtained were as follows: melting point, 179.1 degrees C; UV spectrum, lambda max = 281 nm; IR spectrum, the same as that of the Estradiol Reference Standard of National Institute of Health Sciences (Control 931); optical rotation, [alpha]20D = +79.5 degrees; thin-layer chromatography, one impurity was detected; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), a trace amount of three impurities were detected; loss on drying, 3.17%; assay, 99.4% by UV spectrophotometry and 99.0% by HPLC. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Estradiol Reference Standard (Control 961) of National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of tocopherol acetate was examined for the preparation of the "Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 971)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: infrared spectrum, the same as that of the Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 941); specific absorbance, E1 cm 1% (284 nm) = 43.0; thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 50.0 micrograms of the loaded raw material; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), one impurity was detected and the amount was estimated to be about 0.68%; assay by HPLC, 100.2%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 971) of National Institute of Health Sciences.

[Riboflavin Reference Standard (Control 951) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material for riboflavin was tested for preparation of the "Riboflavin Reference Standard (Control 951)" of National Institute of Health Sciences. Analytical data obtained were as follows: melting point, 284.6 degrees C (decomposition): specific absorbance, E1cm1% = 857 (267 nm), 277 (373 nm), 326 (445 nm); IR spectrum, the same as that of JP Riboflavin Reference Standard (Control 921); optical rotation, [alpha]20D = -135.6 degrees; thin-layer chromatography, three impurities were detected; high-performance liquid chromatography, a small amount of 10 impurities were detected: loss on drying, 0.10%; assay, 100.4% by spectrophotometry. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Riboflavin Reference Standard (Control 951) of National Institute of Health Sciences (Japanese Pharmacopoeia).

Estimations of average particle sizes and size distributions of commercially available human-insulin aqueous suspensions using laser-light diffraction spectroscopy

The average diameter and size distribution of particles in commercially available isophane-insulin and zinc-insulin aqueous suspensions (11 products) were examined using laser-light diffraction spectroscopy (LLDS). Wide variation was observed between products in volume-weighted and number-weighted average diameters. The particles in the insulin aqueous suspensions were found to be mono-dispersed within relatively narrow size distributions. Sonication for a short time led to a downshift in the apparent average diameter, which was most remarkable with isophane-insulin aqueous suspensions. This could be ascribed to dispersion of aggregated needle-like crystals and/or crystal breakage. In the case of biphasic isophane-insulin aqueous suspensions, the average size as well as the size distribution shifted toward the smaller end of the scale with decrease in the isophane content.

[Sennosides Reference Standard (Control 951) of the National Institute of Health Sciences]

The "Sennosides Reference Standard (Control 951)" was prepared, which is intended to be used for the fluorophotometric assay of sennosides content in the preparation of "Sennosides". In this assay hydroxylated mono- and dianthraquinone glucosides are chelated with boric acid, and the fluorescence intensity of the chelate is determined against that of the Reference Standard (RS). In the establishment of this RS, sennosides content in the candidate material must be determined accurately by fluorophotometry. The Sennoside AB for assay, prepared as an equimolar mixture of the purified sennoside A and Sennoside B, was used as the RS for the fluorophotometry. Based on the above concept, sennosides content in the candidate was determined as calcium salts to be 60.1 +/- 1.6% by the fluorophotometry. Thus the sennosides content of this Sennosides RS was certified to be 60%. Separately, contents of Sennoside A (SA) and Sennoside B (SB) in this candidate were determined by using HPLC. As a result, the sum of SA and SB was estimated to be 38% as free acids. Thus it was suggested that about 20% of dianthraquinone glucosides other than SA and SB and anthraquinone glucosides may be included in this Sennoside RS as free acids. Analytical results on the USP Sennosides RS were also shown and discussed, compared with the present Sennosides RS.

[Betamethasone Reference Standard (Control 951) of the National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of betamethasone was tested for preparation of the "Betamethasone Reference Standard (Control 951)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: loss on drying, 0.0%; infrared spectrum, the same as that of the JP Betamethasone Reference Standard (Control 845); thin-layer chromatography, no impurity was detected; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), two kinds of impurities were detected and the total amount was estimated to be 0.16 +/- 0.01% (n = 3); assay, 100.0% by HPLC. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the JP Betamethasone Reference Standard (Control 951).

[Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 941) of the National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of tocopherol acetate was tested for the preparation of the "Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 941)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: infrared spectrum, the same as that of the Tocopherol Acetate Reference Standard (Control 919); specific absorbance, E1(1%)cm (284nm) = 44.5; thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected until 50.0 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), 2-3 impurities were detected and the amount was estimated to be about 1%; assay by HPLC, 100.8%. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Reference Standard (Control 941).

[Digitoxin Reference Standard (Control 951) of the National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of digitoxin was tested for preparation of the "Digitoxin Reference Standard (Control 951)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: loss on drying, 0.0%; infrared spectrum, the same as that of the JP Digitoxin Reference Standard (Control 845); thin-layer chromatography, no impurity was detected; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), two kinds of impurities were detected and the total amount was estimated to be 0.16 +/- 0.01% (n = 3); assay, 99.0% by HPLC. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the JP Digitoxin Reference Standard (Control 951).

[dl-Camphor Reference Standard (Control 951) of the National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of dl-camphor was examined for the preparation of the "dl-Camphor Reference Standard". Analytical data obtained are as follows: ultraviolet spectrum, lambda max = 290 nm; infrared spectrum, the same as that of the present JP Camphor Reference Standard; melting point, 179.6 degrees C; purity test by gas-chromatography (GC), three kinds of impurities were detected; assay by GC, 99.0%. Based on the above results, the candidate raw material was authorized as the JP Reference Standard (Control 951).

[Cyanocobalamin Reference Standard (Control 951) of the National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of cyanocobalamin was tested for preparation of the "Cyanocobalamin Reference Standard (Control 951)". Analytical data obtained are as follows: loss on drying, 1.8%; infrared spectrum, the same as that of the JP Cyanocobalamin Reference Standard (Control 936); thin-layer chromatography, three impurities were detected; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), eight to nine kinds of impurities were detected and the total amount of impurities was estimated to be 1.6 +/- 0.13% (n = 4); assay, 99.7% by spectrophotometry specified in the JP XII and 100.4% by HPLC, respectively. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the JP Cyanocobalamin Reference Standard (Control 951).

[Lysozyme Reference Standard (Control 951) of the National Institute of Health Sciences]

The "Lysozyme Reference Standard (Control 951)" of the National Institute of Health Sciences was prepared. The lysozyme potency of the standard material was assayed against the Lysozyme Reference Standard (Control 915) by two turbidimetric methods using the drycells of Micrococcus luteus as the substrate. The potency of the standard material was in satisfactory agreement with that of Lysozyme Reference Standard (Control 915) and was defined as 1 mg [potency] per mg.

Pharmaceutical characterization of commercially available intravenous fat emulsions: estimation of average particle size, size distribution and surface potential using photon correlation spectroscopy

Particle profiles such as the average diameter, size distribution and dispersion, as well as the zeta potential, of commercially available intravenous fat emulsions of high-calorie nutrient fluids (6 products) and drug carriers (4 products) were examined using photon correlation spectroscopy (dynamic light scattering). Wide variations were observed in number-weighted (dn), weight-weighted (dw) and z-average diameters, and dw/dn ratios as a measure of polydispersity. Average size is not sufficient for the pharmaceutical characterization of particles and the determination of size distribution or dw/dn value is essential for more precise information. Although measuring the zeta potential of fat emulsions is of considerable value in estimating their stability on long-term storage, a medium which accurately reflects the environment of the droplets in the system of interest should be chosen when diluting the emulsion.

[The Dexamethasone Reference Standard (Control 931) of the National Institute of Health Sciences]

Raw dexamethasone material was tested for preparation of the "Dexamethasone Reference Standard (Control 931)". Analytical data obtained were as follows: melting point, 245.1 degrees C (decomposition); infrared spectrum, the same as that of the JP Dexamethasone Reference Standard; optical rotation, -alpha-20D = + 76.75 degrees; thin-layer chromatography, two impurities were detected; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), one impurity was detected; loss on drying, 0.14%; assay result, 99.4% by HPLC. Based on the above findings, the raw material was authorized as the JP Dexamethasone Reference Standard (Control 931).

Determination of human immunoglobulin A and secretory immunoglobulin A in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids by solid phase enzyme immunoassay

Solid phase enzyme immunoassay methods for the determination of secretory immunoglobulin A (IgA) and the total amount of serum and secretory IgA in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALF) were developed. The solid phase was prepared by immobilizing rabbit anti-human IgA. Horseradish peroxidase-conjugated goat anti-secretory component or horseradish peroxidase-conjugated goat anti-human IgA (Fc) were used as labeled antibodies. The minimum detectable amounts of secretory IgA and total IgA were 2 and 0.5 ng/well, respectively. These assay methods were successfully applied to the determination of secretory and total IgA levels in BALF samples obtained from 44 subjects including healthy non-smokers, smokers and patients with the following lung diseases: idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, sarcoidosis and hypersensitivity pneumonitis. The secretory and total IgA levels in BALF collected from healthy non-smokers (n = 9) were 10.5 +/- 3.6 and 25.4 +/- 15.5 (S.D.) micrograms/ml, respectively. In healthy smokers, the secretory IgA concentration was significantly decreased and in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, the total IgA was increased. These results indicate that the quantitation of secretory and total IgA may be useful for the investigation of lung disease.

[Folic Acid Reference Standard (Control 921) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

Folic acid was tested for the preparation of "Folic Acid Reference Standard (Control 921)". The quality of the raw material was examined and compared with the previous Folic Acid Reference Standard (Control 862). Analytical data obtained were as follows: water content, 7.52%; free amines, 0.1%; infrared spectrum, the same as that of the JP Reference Standard; thin-layer chromatography, three impurities were detected; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), two impurities were detected; assay, 101.2% by spectrophotometry at 550 nm and 100.4% by HPLC. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Reference Standard (Control 921).

[Cortisone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 921) of National Institute of Health Sciences]

The raw material of cortisone acetate was tested for the preparation of "Cortisone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 921)". The quality of the raw material was examined and compared with the previous Cortisone Acetate Reference Standard (Control 743). Analytical data obtained were as follows: loss on drying, 0.06%; melting point, 245.9 degrees C (decomposition); optical rotation, [alpha]20D = +215.5 degrees; UV spectrum, lambda max = 239 nm and specific absorbance E 1%1 cm (239 nm) = 393; infrared spectrum, the same as that of the previous Reference Standard (Control 743); thin-layer chromatography, no impurities were detected up to 100 micrograms; high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), three impurities were detected; assay, 100.5% by HPLC. Based on the above results, the raw material was authorized as the Japanese Pharmacopoeia Reference Standard (Control 921).

Antithrombotic effect of MCI-9042, a new antiplatelet agent on experimental thrombosis models

The antithrombotic effect of MCI-9042, (+-)-2-(dimethyl-amino)-1-((o-(m- methoxyphenethyl)phenoxyl]methyl]ethyl hydrogen succinate hydrochloride was investigated in three different experimental thrombosis models in animals. Simultaneous injection of serotonin and collagen into the tail vein in mice induced acute pulmonary thromboembolic death. MCI-9042 reduced the mortality in a dose dependent manner and its ED50 value was 1.9 mg/kg po. Ticlopidine (TCP) which is a positive reference compound as an antithrombotic drug reduced the mortality at doses of 10 mg/kg po and above. Cyproheptadine (CPH) and ketanserin (KTS) which are S2-serotonergic antagonists were also effective on the reduction of mortality. In mesenteric arterial thrombosis induced by electric stimulation in mice, MCI-9042 prolonged the occlusion time resulted from platelet thrombus formation (PD50: 23 mg/kg po). CPH and KTS prolonged the occlusion time as potent as MCI-9042, but TCP prolonged the occlusion time only at the high doses of 100 mg/kg po and above. In experimental arterial thrombosis which generated in implanted polyethylene tubing, MCI-9042 reduced the incidence of thrombus formation in the tubing and its ED50 value was 18 mg/kg po. TCP was also effective in this model with an ED50 of 170 mg/kg po. The present results lead to the consideration that serotonin plays a more important role in thrombus formation than that conjectured formerly, and suggest that MCI-9042 becomes a new kind of antithrombotic drug with S2-serotonergic receptor antagonism.

Effect of (+/-)-2-(dimethylamino)-1-[[o-(m-methoxyphenethyl)phenoxy] methyl]ethyl hydrogen succinate on experimental models of peripheral obstructive disease

Peripheral obstructive disease in tail or hind limb was experimentally induced by intravenous injection of kappa-carrageenin or intra-arterial injection of sodium laurate in rats, and the suppressive effect of (+/-)-2-(dimethylamino)-1-[[o-(m-methoxyphenethyl)phenoxy] methyl]ethyl hydrogen succinate (MCI-9042, CAS 125926-17-2) on the peripheral obstructive diseases was examined. The injection of kappa-carrageenin induced a thrombotic infarction of the tail vessel in rats. The administration of MCI-9042 dose-dependently suppressed the peripheral infarction with an ED50 value of 16 mg/kg p.o. Ticlopidine, a reference antiplatelet drug, did not affect the peripheral infarction even at 50 mg/kg p.o. Cyproheptadine, however, an S2-serotonergic antagonist, potently suppressed the peripheral infarction with an ED50 of 3.5 mg/kg p.o. After the injection of sodium laurate into the femoral artery in rats peripheral lesions of the paw were generated and extended. MCI-9042 significantly prevented the progression of the disease at doses of 10 mg/kg p.o. and above. When the daily administration of MCI-9042 was started from 1 day after the laurate injection, it was also effective as well as by pretreatment. Ticlopidine was significantly effective only at 100 mg/kg p.o. as pretreatment. From the present study, it is considered that platelet-derived serotonin plays an important role in the development of peripheral obstructive disease and MCI-9042 suppressed the disease through its S2-serotonergic antagonism.

MCI-9042, a new antiplatelet agent is a selective S2-serotonergic receptor antagonist

MCI-9042, (+/-)-1-[2-[2-(3-methoxyphenyl)ethyl]phenoxy]-3- (dimethylamino)-2-propyl hydrogen succinate hydrochloride inhibited platelet aggregation induced by collagen and secondary aggregation by ADP or epinephrine at 10(-6) M level in platelets of various species. The antiplatelet effect of MCI-9042 was potentiated in aggregation induced by a combination of serotonin with collagen. IC50 value of human platelet aggregation by the serotonin plus collagen was 1.0 x 10(-7) M. MCI-9042 inhibited serotonin release accompanied with collagen-induced platelet aggregation, while it did not affect serotonin uptake into platelet. MCI-9042 also potently inhibited the S2-serotonergic receptor-mediated contraction of rat caudal artery by serotonin in a competitive manner with a Ki value of 1.79 x 10(-8) M, while S1 receptor- or adrenergic receptor-mediated vasoconstriction was inhibited more weakly. Platelet adhesiveness, c-AMP level in platelets and the conversion of arachidonic acid to thromboxane A2 were not influenced by MCI-9042. These results suggest that MCI-9042 is a selective S2-serotonergic receptor antagonist, exhibiting the inhibition of S2-serotonergic potentiated platelet aggregation and the suppression of blood vessel constriction mediated by S2-serotonergic receptor.

Plant constituents biologically active to insects. VI. Antifeedants for larvae of the yellow butterfly, Eurema hecabe mandarina, in Osmunda japonica. (2)

Three antifeedants for larvae of the yellow butterfly, Eurema hecabe mandarina de l'Orza, were isolated from Osmunda japonica Thunb. and identified as osmundalin, parasorboside and methyl (3S,5S)-5-hydroxy-3-(beta-D-glucopyranosyloxy)hexanoate. In the course of isolation of the antifeedants, a new glycoside, dihydroisoosmudalin (9), was isolated together with maltol beta-D-glucopyranoside, 2-deoxy-L-ribopyranolactone, 5-hydroxymethyl.2-furfural and glycerin. The structure of 9 was elucidated as (4R,5S)-5-(beta-D-glucopyranosyloxy)hexan-4-olide on the basis of chemical and spectroscopic evidence.