Correlation of perceived stress with monthly cyclical changes in the female body

Background

Women are liable to stress-related disorders as female sex hormone, estrogen has been indicated to be protective against stress disorders. The hormone level varies with different phases of menstrual cycle. Moreover, postmenopausal women are at risk for stress-related disorders. So this study was done to correlate the different phases of menstrual cycle with the perceived stress in different phases of monthly cycle.

Methods

This study was conducted in the Department of Physiology, Shri Guru Ram Rai Institute of Medical and Health Sciences (SGRRIMHS), Dehradun. Four hundred girls in the age group of 18-26 years were selected for the study. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) questionnaire was circulated via Google forms after briefing them about the study. Informed consent was also taken. The menstrual history of the subjects was enquired by one-to-one interaction. The participants completed the PSS questionnaire twice in the same cycle. Data collected were statistically analyzed, using Independent t-test and Chi-square test and point biserial correlation test.

Result

The analysis showed strong statistical association of PSS with two phases of menstrual cycle. The PSS score was higher in the late luteal and menstrual phase, while it was less in the late follicular phase (P < 0.05). Conclusion: The decreased oestrogen levels in the late luteal & menstrual phase are strongly associated with perceived stress in our study. Hormonal changes in the monthly cycles are related with stress, behavioral shift and many other physical changes in females. This information to the family physicians would be beneficial in counseling the females regarding various changes occurring during the menstrual cycle.

Psychobiotics for Mitigation of Neuro-Degenerative Diseases: Recent Advancements

Ageing is inevitable and poses a universal challenge for all living organisms, including humans. The human body experiences rapid cell division and metabolism until approximately 25 years of age, after which the accumulation of metabolic by-products and cellular damage leads to age-related diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases are of concern due to their irreversible nature, lack of effective treatment, and impact on society and the economy. Researchers are interested in finding drugs that can effectively alleviate ageing and age-related diseases without side-effects. Psychobiotics are a novel class of probiotic organisms and prebiotic interventions that confer mental health benefits to the host when taken appropriately. Psychobiotic strains affect functions related to the central nervous system (CNS) and behaviors mediated by the Gut-Brain-Axis (GBA) through various pathways. There is an increasing interest in researchers of these microbial-based psychopharmaceuticals. Psychobiotics have been reported to reduce neuronal ageing, inflammation, oxidative stress, and cortisol levels; increase synaptic plasticity and levels of neurotransmitters and antioxidants. The present review focuses on the manifestation of elderly neurodegenerative and mental disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and depression, and the current status of their potential alleviation through psychobiotic interventions, highlighting their possible mechanisms of action.

Comparative cone-beam computed tomographic evaluation of maxillary incisor intrusion and associated root resorption: Intrusion arch vs mini-implants

INTRODUCTION

Various literature has verified that apical root resorption is a common adverse effect of orthodontic treatment, particularly intrusion. Conventional radiographic techniques underestimated root lengths and overestimated tooth lengths. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a useful diagnostic tool to detect orthodontically induced external apical root resorption. This prospective study aimed to compare maxillary incisor intrusion and associated root resorption via CBCT.

METHODS

Thirty patients aged 16-23 years, having a deepbite of 6-8 mm and excessive gingival display on smiling, were divided into 2 groups: group 1, with 15 patients who were treated with Burstone intrusion arch, and group 2 with 15 patients who were treated with mini-implants applying 100 g of intrusive force for 4 months with activation done every 4 weeks. During this 4-month study period, no treatment was performed other than the intrusion of incisors. CBCT scans were obtained before and after the intrusion phase of treatment to compare the amount of intrusion and associated root resorption among both groups.

RESULTS

No significant difference was found in mean incisor intrusion between groups 1 and 2 (P = 0.772), with slightly more proclination of incisors in group 1, resulting in a significant (P = 0.018) increase in the vertical change of incisal edge in group 1. A statistically significant difference was found in root resorption among both groups (P = 0.004), with more root resorption in group 2.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study indicate intrusion with both the intrusion systems using appropriate intrusive forces is effective in opening the bite with slightly more external apical root resorption in the mini-implant group.

Medicinal and therapeutic properties of garlic, garlic essential oil, and garlic-based snack food: An updated review

Garlic (Allium sativum) is an edible tuber belonging to the family Liliaceae. It has been used since ancient times as a spice to enhance the sensory characteristics of food and as a household remedy for the treatment of a variety of ailments. Garlic has been studied for its medicinal and therapeutic effects in the treatment of various human diseases for a long time. Health benefits associated with the consumption of garlic are attributed to the various sulfur compounds present in it such as allicin, ajoene, vinyl-dithiin, and other volatile organosulfur compounds which are all metabolized from alliin. Several researches in the literature have shown evidence that garlic exhibits antioxidant, antiviral, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, antihypertensive, anti-anemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anticarcinogenic, antiaggregant, and immunomodulatory properties. The present review identifies and discusses the various health benefits associated with the consumption of garlic, its essential oil, and bioactive constituents, along with exploring the various snack-food products developed by incorporating garlic.

Optimization of the iron-enriched extruded snack containing jackfruit seed flour, mung bean flour and ferrous ammonium phosphate by using response surface methodology

The Food and Agriculture Organization (State of food and agriculture. Moving forward on food loss and waste reduction, 2019) stated that approximately 1.3 billion tons of food wasted every year caused the emission of around 4.4 gigatons of greenhouse gas. World Health Organization highlights that iron deficiency affects billions of people worldwide and remains the leading cause of anemia. With the growth of healthy and sustainable diets and consumers’ better understanding of the relationship between diet, health, and the environment, there is an opportunity to develop novel healthy extruded snacks. The present study was carried out using response surface methodology to investigate the effects of varying proportions of jackfruit seed flour, mung bean flour, and ferrous ammonium phosphate on physical and functional properties of extruded snacks. Experiments were carried out using a central composite rotatable design with three independent parameters such as jackfruit seed flour(%), mung bean flour(%), and ferrous ammonium phosphate (%), and five responses such as bulk density (BD), expansion ratio (ER), hardness, color difference (ΔE), and iron content. It was found that ferrous ammonium phosphate significantly increased the iron content. Bulk density, expansion ratio, and hardness were significantly affected by jackfruit seed flour and mung bean flour. All independent variables significantly influenced colour value. The optimized iron-enrich extruded snacks were obtained at 24.87% jackfruit seed flour, 20.95% mung bean flour, and 0.021% ferrous ammonium phosphate. The optimized extruded snack contained 15.32 g/100 g protein and 22.03 mg/100 g iron content. Results of the study indicate that the optimized extruded snack could be used as a protein and iron source to mitigate malnutrition and anemia.

Graphical Abstract

Development of Functional Candy with Banana, Ginger and Skim Milk Powder as a Source of Phenolics and Antioxidants

The present pandemic situation has increased the demand for plant-based functional foods that enhancing the immunity of all aged groups against COVID-19. This factor has led to innovation in confectionery market because healthy and good quality confectionery products are lacking. In this study, an attempt has been made to develop functional candy from various combinations of banana, ginger, skim milk powder, and honey at 2-10% and evaluated its sensory, nutraceutical, functional properties and microbial stability for 60 days. Among various combinations of banana and ginger pulp, candy prepared from 96:6 w/w (banana: ginger) ratio was found better than other combinations in respect to organoleptic and nutritional quality. Ginger and skim milk powder addition increased the contents of protein (4.54%), ash (2.82%), phenolic (8.59 mgGAE/g), flavonoid (2.43 mQ/g), and antioxidant activity (36.15% DPPH activity) of functional candy. Microbial studies of functional candy revealed it could be stored up to 60 days without microbial contamination and acceptable by the consumer. The cost of functional candy was Rs.1.53 per candy, which was less than market candy. This study showed that candy manufactured from banana, ginger, skim milk powder, and honey was nutritionally and economical improved with acceptable sensory properties. Developed functional candy increases the market's revenue and enables confectionary market to develop a new candy type.

Fumonisin B1 induces poly (ADP-ribose) (PAR) polymer-mediated cell death (parthanatos) in neuroblastoma

Fumonisin B1 (FB1) is a well-known mycotoxin produced by Fusarium spp. and has a wide range of dose-dependent toxic effects, including nephrotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and neurotoxicity. This research illustrated that FB1 exerts its toxicity in the neuroblastoma cell line through a distinct cell-death pathway called parthanatos. FB1 can cause excessive DNA strand breaks, leading to poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) overactivation and cell death. In this study, we used 50 μM FB1-treated SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells to elucidate the signaling pathway of FB1-induced parthanatos. We observed that FB1-induced cell death is caspase-independent and accompanied by rapid activation of PARP-1, c-Jun N-terminal kinase activation, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and intracellular calcium increase. FB1 treatment also increased endoplasmic reticulum stress due to the rapid increase of calcium ions and ROS levels. In addition, FB1 induced massive DNA damage and chromatin decondensation. We also observed that apoptosis-inducing factor nuclear translocation and PAR accumulation were associated with the necroptosis signal.

Synthesis of 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid-enriched-chitosan for anti-inflammatory and metal ion uptake

The main aim of the present study is to synthesize a hitherto unreported polymer of chitosan (CS) and 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) derived from renewable biomass resources. For this purpose, CS was chosen which had -NH₂ groups as abundant active sites. Synthesis of 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid-enriched-chitosan polymer (CS-FDCA) was carried out by reaction involving EDC-NHS coupling reagents. The structure of CS-FDCA polymer was confirmed by various characterization techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H NMR), X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), high resolution-field emission scanning electron microscope (HR-FESEM), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Moreover, CS and CS-FDCA were scrutinized to examine their efficacies towards ameliorate inflammation via detection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced nitric oxide (NO) production. As compared to CS, CS-FDCA with low concentration (1.0 μM) exhibited the better efficacy to reduce the NO production. Furthermore, CS-FDCA polymer showed high as 12.6% of Cu²⁺ ion uptake while CS showed 9.2% of Cu²⁺ ion uptake. Overall, it can be inferred that CS-FDCA polymer is expected to be used for biomedical application and for the removal of metal contaminants from industrial wastewater.

Development of water spinach powder and its characterization

The study was performed on water spinach (Ipomea aquatica), a hidden gem with lots of nutritional attributes and medicinal properties. To check its feasibility as an ingredient in other food products and to know its nutritional attributes, powders were made by drying the leaves and stems of the plant using different drying techniques such as sun drying, freeze-drying, and tray drying. The physicochemical analysis of powder was done to get a comparative result, in which the freeze-dried powder showed the most significant result. The physicochemical analysis revealed that lyophilized water spinach powder has a good amount of carbohydrates (58.15%), ash (12.39%), protein (4.01%), and fat (4.46%) content. The powder also possessed a high antioxidant property of 77.25% and a total phenolic content of 32 µg/ ml. SEM and XRD results showed that the water spinach powder was amorphous in nature.

Inhibitory insights of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa var. Seolhyang) root extract on tyrosinase activity using computational and in vitro analysis

The strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa var. seolhyang) is commonly used as fruit but medicinal importance for the non-edible roots which contained a pool of bioactive compounds are not yet studied against tyrosinase inhibition. This study demonstrates the potential of bioactive compounds in root and rhizome of strawberry against tyrosinase inhibition using in silico and in vitro approaches. ADMET profiling and molecular docking analysis show druglikeness for the major bioactive compounds in strawberry root extract (SRE), i.e. procyanidin, procyanidin trimer, kaempferol 3-O-(4-O-p-coumaroyl)-glucoside, neochlorogenic acid, procyanidin tetramer, and quercetin-3-O-pentoside, and docking score between -7.8 to -6.3 kcal/mol with tyrosinase, respectively. Also, these docked complexes exhibit substantial stability contributed by strong hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic interactions, and polar interactions in 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation; further supported by essential dynamics and dynamic cross-correlation matrix analysis. Also, in vitro functional assays support in silico predicted results in terms of substantial cytoprotective and cellular antioxidant potential in Raw 264.7 macrophages challenged by H₂O₂ as well as non-significant toxicity in zebrafish. SRE exhibits the lowest (5.8%) and highest (42.8%) inhibition of tyrosinase at 100 and 500 μg/ml concentrations, respectively. These results advocated functional properties and tyrosinase inhibition potential of SRE; and hence, SRE can be used in medicinal or cosmetic applications.

Phloretin Protects Macrophages from E. coli-Induced Inflammation through the TLR4 Signaling Pathway

Macrophages are the cells of the first-line defense system, which protect the body from foreign invaders such as bacteria. However, Gram-negative bacteria have always been the major challenge for macrophages due to the presence of lipopolysaccharides on their outer cell membrane. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of phloretin, a flavonoid commonly found in apple, on the protection of macrophages from Escherichia coli infection. RAW 264.7 cells infected with standard E. coli, or virulent E. coli K1 strain were treated with phloretin in a dose-dependent manner to examine its efficacy in protection of macrophages. Our results revealed that phloretin treatment reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO) and generation of reactive oxygen species along with reducing the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines induced by the E. coli and E. coli K1 strains in a concentration-dependent manner. Additionally, treatment of phloretin downregulated the expression of E. coli-induced major inflammatory markers i.e. cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1), in a concentration dependent manner. Moreover, the TLR4-mediated NF-κB pathway was activated in E. coli-infected macrophages but was potentially downregulated by phloretin at the transcriptional and translational levels. Collectively, our data suggest that phloretin treatment protects macrophages from infection of virulent E. coli K1 strain by downregulating the TLR4-mediated signaling pathway and inhibiting NO and cytokine production, eventually protecting macrophages from E. coli-induced inflammation.

Antimicrobial potential of the food-grade additive carvacrol against uropathogenic E. coli based on membrane depolarization, reactive oxygen species generation, and molecular docking analysis

The antibiotic resistance of extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Escherichia coli has increased drastically in recent years. In our study, we determined the principle mechanisms of action for the food-grade additive carvacrol against ESBL E. coli isolated from the blood of patients with a urinary tract infection. Carvacrol, which has a minimum inhibitory concentration of 150 μg/ml and a minimum bactericidal concentration of 300 μg/ml, reduced E. coli cell counts in a time-dependent manner. After treatment with carvacrol, the E. coli killing time was found to be 120 min. Fluorescent staining confirmed an increase in bacterial cell death, greater membrane depolarization, and an elevated oxidative burst in carvacrol-treated E. coli. Carvacrol also induced the release of cellular DNA, proteins, and potassium ions from bacterial cells and reduced both the number of E. coli in invasion assays against macrophages and the levels of the inflammatory proteins TNF-α and COX-2. In addition, carvacrol was found to inhibit β-lactamase enzyme activity (in vitro), which was supported by in silico results. Moreover, carvacrol inhibited motility, and protected against bacterial invasion. Overall, the findings suggest that carvacrol has significant antimicrobial potential against ESBL E. coli.

Isorhamnetin Has Potential for the Treatment of Escherichia coli-Induced Sepsis

Isorhamnetin is a flavonoid that is abundant in the fruit of Hippophae rhamnoides L. It is widely studied for its ability to modulate inflammatory responses. In this study, we evaluated the potential of isorhamnetin to prevent gram-negative sepsis. We investigated its efficacy using an Escherichia coli-induced sepsis model. Our study reveals that isorhamnetin treatment significantly enhances survival and reduces proinflammatory cytokine levels in the serum and lung tissue of E. coli-infected mice. Further, isorhamnetin treatment also significantly reduces the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine amino transferase and blood urea nitrogen, suggesting that it can improve liver and kidney function in infected mice. Docking studies reveal that isorhamnetin binds deep in the hydrophobic binding pocket of MD-2 via extensive hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding with Tyr102, preventing TLR4/MD-2 dimerization. Notably, binding and secreted alkaline phosphatase reporter gene assays show that isorhamnetin can interact directly with the TLR4/MD-2 complex, thus inhibiting the TLR4 cascade, which eventually causes systemic inflammation, resulting in death due to cytokine storms. We therefore presume that isorhamnetin could be a suitable therapeutic candidate to treat bacterial sepsis.

Thymol Elicits HCT-116 Colorectal Carcinoma Cell Death Through Induction of Oxidative Stress

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer is one of the most deadly and common carcinomas occurring worldwide and there have been many attempts to treat this cancer. The present work was designed in order to evaluate thymol as a potent drug against colon cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cytotoxicity of thymol at different concentrations was evaluated against a human colon carcinoma cell line (HCT-116 cells). Fluorescent staining was carried out to evaluate the level of ROS as well as mitochondrial and DNA fragmentation and immunoblot analysis were performed to confirm apoptosis and mitoptosis.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Results of the study demonstrated that thymol efficiently created an oxidative stress environment inside HCT-116 cells, a colorectal carcinoma cell line, through induction of ROS production along with intense damage to DNA and mitochondria, as observed through Hoechst and rhodamine 123 staining, respectively. Moreover, expression of PARP-1, p-JNK, cytochrome-C and caspase-3 proteins was up-regulated, suggesting HCT-116 cells underwent mitoptotic cell death. Therefore, thymol could be used as a potent drug against colon cancer due to its lower toxicity and prevalence in natural medicinal plants.

Differential expression patterns of the short and long isoform of cFLIP on FasL‑mediated apoptosis

cFLIP is a key regulator of the anti‑apoptotic mechanism and its association with FAS‑mediated apoptosis has been widely studied and well documented. However, the equipoise between its two isoforms i.e. the long isoform cFLIP(L) and the short isoform cFLIP(S) during FAS‑mediated apoptosis remains to be revealed. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the regulatory effect of these isoforms on FasL‑mediated apoptosis in renal carcinoma. Our results revealed that FasL treatment to Caki cells induced the expression of cFLIP(S) and downregulated the expression of cFLIP(L) in a concentration‑ and time‑dependent manner. Furthermore, our results indicated that cell death receptor‑mediated apoptosis inducers such as TNF‑α and TRAIL, induced apoptosis in Caki cells along with downregulation of cFLIP(L), however, they had no effect on the expression of cFLIP(S). In addition, FasL‑mediated cFLIP(L) downregulation was prevented by pan‑caspase inhibitor (z‑VAD‑fmk), however pan‑caspase inhibitor did not have an effect on FasL‑induced cFLIP(S) upregulation. Furthermore, FasL induced upregulation of the expression of cFLIP(S) at the post‑translational level. Furthermore, pretreatment of Caki cells with ROS scavengers (N‑acetylcysteine and glutathione) prevented the downregulation of cFLIP(L), the upregulation of cFLIP(S) and apoptosis induced by FasL. Collectively, these data indicated that a novel pathway of cFLIP(L)/(S) differential expression pattern was associated with FasL‑induced apoptosis and modulated by ROS generation.

Synthesis of novel Chlorin e6-curcumin conjugates as photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy against pancreatic carcinoma

Curcumin (cur) has been comprehensively studied for its various biological properties, more precisely for its antitumor potential and it has shown the promising results as well. On the other hand, Chlorin e6 (Ce6) has mostly been used as a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy (PDT) against a variety of carcinomas. In the present study, we have synthesized a series of Chlorin e6-curcumin (Ce6-cur) conjugates and investigated their photosensitizing potential against pancreatic cancer cell lines. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by UV, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and LC-MS. These Ce6-cur conjugates showed better physicochemical properties and higher singlet oxygen generation capability. The cellular uptake was studied in AsPC-1 cells using fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). Compound 17 was rapidly internalized within 30 min and sustained for 24 h. Compound 17 showed excellent PDT efficacy with IC50 of 40, 35 and 41 nM against AsPC-1, MIA PaCa-2 and PANC-1 respectively with exceptional dark/phototoxicity ratio in the range of 2371-7500. Moreover, the treatment of compound 17 upregulated the expression of BAX, Cytochrome-C and cleaved caspase 9 while downregulating the Bcl-2 expression an anti-apoptotic protein marker. These results demonstrate outstanding capability of compound 17 as a potent photosensitizer which could improve the PDT efficacy in pancreatic cancer patients.

Morin hydrate ameliorates cisplatin-induced ER stress, inflammation and autophagy in HEK-293 cells and mice kidney via PARP-1 regulation

The present study assessed the possible therapeutic potential of a natural flavonoid morin hydrate (MH), against cisplatin (CP) induced toxicity in HEK-293 cells and mice kidney. Herein, we observed that exposure of HEK-293 cells to CP (20 μM, 24 h) reduced the cell viability, and increased the intracellular ROS generation, nuclear DNA damage, Ca⁺⁺ release, and accumulation of acidic vacuoles. Concomitantly, acute exposure of CP (30 mg/kg, 72 h) to male ICR mice induced histopathological changes in kidney tissue, and alterations in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. Oxidative stress mediated ER-stress was evidenced by the reduced expression of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD-1, SOD-2, GR, and Trx, and increased expression levels of CytP450, IRE1-α, PERK, and CHOP. The expression levels of major inflammatory response markers such as NF-κB, TNF-α, IL-1β, COX-2 and iNOS were significantly increased in the HEK-293 cells and mice kidney. Temporal up-regulation of p-AMPK and LC3I/II, and down regulation of mTOR was also noticed after CP treatment. CP-induced DNA damage led to activation of PARP-1, which plays a crucial role in inflammation, apoptosis and autophagy activation. Concurrently, co-treatment of CP-MH and CP-ANI (PARP-1 inhibitor) significantly attenuated the expression level of PARP-1, reduced cellular death, alleviated inflammatory responses, and inhibited autophagy stimulation in HEK-293 cells and mice kidney. On the basis of above findings, we suggest MH as a potential therapeutic agent against CP-induced nephrotoxicity.

RIP1-dependent reactive oxygen species production executes artesunate-induced cell death in renal carcinoma Caki cells

Artesunate is a well-known anti-malarial drug originated from artemisinin as a Chinese herb and has been reported to have anti-cancer potential in many cancer cells. In the present study, we examined the efficacy of artesunate against the renal carcinoma Caki cells and explored its mechanism of cytotoxicity. A steep decline in cell viability within 18 h was recorded upon artesunate exposure, but pretreatment of z-VAD-FMK had no effect on the loss of the cell viability by artesunate. On the other hand, necrostatin-1 pretreatment and knockdown of RIP-1 significantly reduced the cytotoxicity of artesunate against Caki cell. Moreover, the generation of mitochondrial ROS prompted by artesunate was found to be the principle mechanism of cell death. Pretreatment with necrostatin-1 or knockdown of RIP-1 inhibited the generation of ROS by artesunate, resulting in the protection of the cells from artesunate toxicity. Moreover, the similar results were observed in the case of other renal carcinoma cell lines (ACHN and A498). The results suggest that artesunate induces the generation of ROS and cell death in RIP1-dependent manner. Therefore, our data suggest that artesunate could induce RIP1-dependent cell death in human renal carcinoma.

P-selectin can promote thrombus propagation independently of both von Willebrand factor and thrombospondin-1 in mice

Essentials The main receptor for platelet glycoprotein (GP) Ibα is von Willebrand factor (VWF). P-selectin and thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) have been suggested as counter receptors for GPIbα. In a laser injury model, P-selectin promotes thrombus propagation independently of VWF and TSP1. In a laser injury model, thrombus persists in interleukin-4 receptor α/GPIbα-transgenic mice.

SUMMARY

Background P-selectin and thrombospondin-1 (TSP1) have been suggested as counter ligands that may mediate GPIbα-dependent thrombus growth independently of von Willebrand factor (VWF) in vitro. However, residual thrombus formation still persists in Vwf -/- Tsp1-/- mice, suggesting existence of other mechanisms that modulate thrombus propagation. Objective We determined whether P-selectin modulates thrombus propagation in injured arterioles independently of TSP1 and VWF. Methods CD-62P blocking antibody in Vwf -/- Tsp1-/- mice was used to inhibit P-selectin. We determined thrombus growth kinetics in two models of thrombosis: FeCl3 injury-induced and laser injury-induced thrombosis. Results In a 10% FeCl3 injury-induced thrombosis model, the initial platelet adhesion, time to form first thrombus, and non-occlusive residual thrombus growth kinetics were comparable between P-selectin-blocking antibody-treated Vwf -/- Tsp1-/- mice and control IgG-treated Vwf -/- Tsp1-/- mice. On the other hand, in a laser injury-induced thrombosis model, residual thrombus growth kinetics were significantly decreased in P-selectin-blocking antibody-treated Vwf -/- Tsp1-/- mice vs. control IgG-treated Vwf -/- Tsp1-/- mice. Because P-selectin has been suggested as a counter ligand for platelet GPIbα, we determined the role of GPIbα in a laser injury-induced thrombosis model. Surprisingly, in a laser injury model, unlike in a FeCl3 injury model, thrombus formation was not completely inhibited in IL4Rα/GPIbα-tg mice. Residual thrombus growth kinetics were comparable between P-selectin-blocking antibody-treated IL4Rα/GPIbα-tg mice and control IgG-treated IL4Rα/GPIbα-tg mice. Comparison of slopes over time showed that residual thrombus growth kinetics were comparable in P-selectin-blocking antibody-treated Vwf -/- Tsp1-/- and control IgG-treated IL4Rα/GPIbα-tg mice Conclusion In a laser injury-induced thrombosis model, P-selectin modulates thrombus propagation independently of VWF and TSP1.

Thymoquinone induces apoptosis through downregulation of c-FLIP and Bcl-2 in renal carcinoma Caki cells

Renal carcinoma is a common and frequently fatal carcinoma occurring worldwide and death rates due to this carcinoma are increasing with time. In the present study, we investigated the potential of thymoquinone a natural compound to induce apoptosis in renal carcinoma Caki cells. Thymoquinone efficiently enhanced the apoptotic population of Caki cells in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, thymoquinone-mediated apoptosis caused downregulation of c-FLIP and Bcl-2, the master regulators of the anti-apoptotic mechanism. However, we did not find any changes in mRNA expression level of c-FLIP, therefore; this regulation of c-FLIP was a result of post-translation modification by thymoquinone. In contrast, expression of the Bcl-2 protein was observed at both transcriptional and translational level. However, we also observed that thymoquinone enhanced the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) in Caki cells, which resulted in reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and cytochrome c release into cytoplasm. Our results postulate that thymoquinone induces apoptosis through downregulating c-FLIP and Bcl-2 which can be utilized as a chemotherapeutic agent to treat renal carcinoma.

Survival outcomes of hepatic resection compared with transarterial chemoembolization or sorafenib for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombosis

Background/Aims:

Treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) remains controversial. We compared the outcomes of hepatic resection (HR), transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), and sorafenib therapy as treatments for HCC with PVTT.

Methods:

Patients diagnosed as HCC with PVTT between January 2000 and December 2011 who received treatment with sorafenib, HR, or TACE were included. Patients with main PVTT, superior mesenteric vein tumor thrombosis, or Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) class C were excluded. The records of 172 patients were analyzed retrospectively. HR, TACE, and sorafenib treatment were performed is 40, 80, and 52 patients respectively. PVTT was classified as either involving the segmental branch (type I) or extending to involve the right or left portal vein (type II).

Results:

The median survival time was significantly longer in the HR group (19.9 months) than in the TACE and sorafenib groups (6.6 and 6.2 months, respectively; both p<0.001), and did not differ significantly between the latter two groups (p=0.698). Among patients with CTP class A, type I PVTT or unilobar-involved HCC, the median survival time was longer in the HR group than in the TACE and sorafenib groups (p=0.006). In univariate analyses, the initial treatment method, tumor size, PVTT type, involved lobe, CTP class, and presence of cirrhosis or ascites were correlated with overall survival. The significant prognostic factors for overall survival in Cox proportional-hazards regression analysis were initial treatment method (HR vs. TACE: hazard ratio=1.750, p=0.036; HR vs. sorafenib: hazard ratio=2.262, p=0.006), involved lobe (hazard ratio=1.705, p=0.008), PVTT type (hazard ratio=1.617, p=0.013), and CTP class (hazard ratio=1.712, p=0.012).

Conclusions:

Compared with TACE or sorafenib, HR may prolong the survival of patients with HCC in cases of CTP class A, type I PVTT or unilobar-involved HCC.

Therapeutic potential and mechanism of thymol action against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rat model

In this study, we investigated the potential of thymol and its mode of action to protect against the gastric mucosal injury induced by ethanol consumption in an in vivo model. Moreover, we determined the role of thymol in regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), an enzyme belonging to the metalloproteinase group, which is responsible for the remodeling of injured tissues. Sprague-Dawley rats pretreated with thymol (10 mg/kg body weight) or normal saline were subjected to intragastric administration of 95% ethanol (5 mL/kg body weight). Morphological examination included ulcer index as a measurement of hemorrhages, and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining was performed to analyze severity of gastric mucosal damage. Gelatinase zymography of tissue extract and in situ zymography were performed to demonstrate MMP-9 activity. Results of macroscopic examination suggested that thymol significantly protected gastric mucosa from damage induced by alcohol, which was severe in the case of alcohol-only treatment. H&E data demonstrated necrosis of the corpus region in alcohol-treated rats, which was abrogated in rats pretreated with thymol. Further, thymol protected against the constriction of small arteries and neutrophil infiltration in lymphatic vessels. Expression of antioxidant enzymes increased in the thymol-pretreated group, and downregulation of MMP-9 protein expression was observed by gelatin zymography as well as in situ zymography. The results of this study suggest that thymol protects against gastric mucosa injury induced by ethanol consumption by upregulating the secretion of antioxidant enzymes and downregulating the expression of the MMP-9 protein.

Enhanced thermoelectric properties of selenium-deficient layered TiSe(2-x): a charge-density-wave material

In the present work, we report on the investigation of low-temperature (300-5 K) thermoelectric properties of hot-pressed TiSe2, a charge-density-wave (CDW) material. We demonstrate that, with increasing hot-pressing temperature, the density of TiSe2 increases and becomes nonstoichiometric owing to the loss of selenium. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transimission electron microscopy results show that the material consists of a layered microstructure with several defects. Increasing the hot-press temperature in nonstoichiometric TiSe2 leads to a reduction of the resistivity and enhancement of the Seebeck coefficient in concomitent with suppression of CDW. Samples hot-pressed at 850 °C exhibited a minimum thermal conductivity (κ) of 1.5 W/m·K at 300 K that, in turn, resulted in a figure-of-merit (ZT) value of 0.14. This value is higher by 6 orders of magnitude compared to 1.49 × 10(-7) obtained for cold-pressed samples annealed at 850 °C. The enhancement of ZT in hot-pressed samples is attributed to (i) a reduced thermal conductivity owing to enhanced phonon scattering and (ii) improved power factor (α(2)σ).

Thermoelectric performance of layered SrxTiSe2 above 300 K

In this paper we report the thermoelectric performance of Sr intercalated TiSe(2) above 300 K. Refined x-ray diffraction, high resolution transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy images show well oriented polycrystalline grains along a (0 0 l) direction and layered growth of the sample. Intercalation of Sr in TiSe(2) shows an improved Seebeck coefficient (α) value without altering the polarity of the majority charge carrier. A drastic reduction in the thermal conductivity (κ) from 3.8 W m K(-1) to 1.2 W m K(-1) (at 650 K) was observed which is ascribed to the: (i) scattering of the phonon by natural layer interfaces, grain boundaries and lattice defects and (ii) rattling of intercalated Sr atoms among weakly bound TiSe(2) layers. This led to the maximum ZT of ~0.08 at 650 K for Sr(x)TiSe(2) (x > 0.1) which is almost twice as high as the parent TiSe(2).

Morin hydrate augments phagocytosis mechanism and inhibits LPS induced autophagic signaling in murine macrophage

Morin, a natural flavonoid that is the primary bioactive constituent of the family Moraceae, has been found to be associated with many therapeutic properties. In this study, we evaluated the immunomodulatory activities of increasing concentration of morin hydrate in vitro. Three different concentrations of morin hydrate (5, 10, and 15μM) were used to evaluate their effect on splenocyte proliferation, phagocytic activity of macrophages, cytokine secretion and complement inhibition. We also evaluated the role of morin hydrate on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced autophagy. Our study demonstrated that morin hydrate elicited a significant increase in splenocyte proliferation, phagocytic capacity and suppressed the production of cytokines and nitric oxide in activated macrophages. Humoral immunity measured by anti-complement activity showed an increase in inhibition of the complement system after the addition of morin hydrate, where morin hydrate at 15μM concentration induced a significant inhibition. Depending on our results, we can also conclude that morin hydrate protects macrophages from LPS induced autophagic cell death. Our findings suggest that morin hydrate represents a structurally diverse class of flavonoid and this structural variability can profoundly affect its cell-type specificity and its biological activities. Supplementation of immune cells with morin hydrate has an upregulating and immunoprotective effect that shows potential as a countermeasure to the immune dysfunction and suggests an interesting use in inflammation related diseases.

ADAMTS13 modulates atherosclerotic plaque progression in mice via a VWF-dependent mechanism

BACKGROUND

ADAMTS13 reduces the adhesiveness of hyperactive ultra-large von Willebrand factor (ULVWF) multimers by cleaving them into smaller, less active multimers. Recently, we and others have demonstrated that ADAMTS13 reduces atherosclerosis in hypercholesteremic apolipoprotein E (ApoE-/-) deficient mice. It is not known whether ADAMTS13 modulates atherosclerosis directly or indirectly by cleaving ULVWF multimers.

OBJECTIVE

We generated triple knockout Adamts13-/-/Vwf-/-/ApoE-/- mice to determine whether ADAMTS13 modulates atherosclerosis through its proteolytic effects on VWF or other potential mechanisms.

METHODS

Female mice were fed a high-fat Western diet beginning at 6 weeks of age until they were sacrificed at 4 months. We compared the extent of atherosclerosis in the serial cross-sections of the aortic sinus using the Verhoeff-Van Gieson stain. Macrophage and neutrophil infiltration were quantified by immunohistochemistry. Under plain polarized light interstitial collagen content in the serial cross-sections of the aortic sinus was quantified using picrosirius red stain.

RESULTS

Deficiency of VWF in Adamts13-/-/ApoE-/- mice (Adamts13-/-/Vwf-/-/ApoE-/-) completely reversed exacerbated atherosclerosis (P < 0.05 vs. Adamts13-/-/ApoE-/- mice). The lesion size, macrophage and neutrophil infiltration in the aortic sinus of Adamts13-/-/Vwf-/-/ApoE-/- mice were significantly decreased compared with Adamts13-/-/ApoE-/- mice (P < 0.05), but similar to Vwf-/-/ApoE-/- mice. Additionally, interstitial collagen content in the aortic sinus of Adamts13-/-/Vwf-/-/ApoE-/- mice was significantly reduced compared with Adamts13-/-/ApoE-/- mice (P < 0.05), but similar to Vwf-/-/ApoE-/- mice. Total cholesterol and triglyceride levels were similar among groups.

CONCLUSIONS

ADAMTS13 modulates inflammatory plaque progression in hypercholesterolemic mice through a VWF-dependent mechanism. These findings provide further evidence on the pathophysiological role for the ADAMTS13/VWF axis in atherosclerosis.

Potentiation of macrophage activity by thymol through augmenting phagocytosis

The potent role of thymol, a natural compound, in modulation of macrophage activity was evaluated by determining all the sequential steps involved during phagocytosis. We found a significant increase in the proliferation of splenocytes in the presence of thymol and it proved to be a good mitogen. Uptake capacity of macrophages was enhanced due to increased membrane fluidity after treatment with thymol and it also increases lysosomal activity of macrophages. Data of superoxide anion generation revealed the involvement of thymol in the generation of respiratory burst as it potentiated this property of macrophages at a concentration of 150 μM. In the case of TNF-α, IL-1ß and PGE(2) a decreased level of secretion was observed 154 ρg/ml, 736.1 ρg/ml, and 151 ρg/ml respectively when compared with lipopolysaccharide treated cells, where the level of these cytokines was significantly high. We also determined the anti-complementary activity of thymol which showed to be more effective than rosmarinic acid. Thus, the results obtained from the study suggest the potential role of thymol as a natural immunostimulatory drug which can be used in the treatment of various immunological disorders.

ADAMTS13 reduces VWF-mediated acute inflammation following focal cerebral ischemia in mice

BACKGROUND

ADAMTS13 cleaves hyperactive ultra-large von Willebrand factor (ULVWF) multimers into smaller and less active forms. It remains unknown whether VWF-mediated inflammatory processes play a role in the enhanced brain injury due to ADAMTS13 deficiency.

OBJECTIVE

We tested the hypothesis that the deleterious effect of ADAMTS13 deficiency on ischemic brain injury is mediated through VWF-dependent enhanced vascular inflammation.

METHODS

Transient focal cerebral ischemia was induced by 60 min of occlusion of the right middle cerebral artery. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and inflammatory cytokines in the infarcted region were evaluated 23 h after reperfusion injury. Neutrophil infiltration within the infarct and surrounding areas was quantitated by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

We report that ADAMTS13-deficient mice exhibited significantly enlarged infarct size, concordant with increased myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, neutrophil infiltration and expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). In contrast, VWF-deficient mice exhibited significantly reduced MPO activity, neutrophil infiltration and inflammatory cytokine induction, demonstrating a role of VWF in these inflammatory processes. Mice deficient for both ADAMTS13 and VWF exhibited an identical reduction of the same inflammatory parameters, demonstrating that the increased inflammation observed in ADAMTS13-deficient mice is VWF dependent. Finally, the increased infarct size observed in ADAMTS13-deficient mice was completely abrogated by prior immunodepletion of neutrophils, demonstrating a causal role for acute inflammation in the enhanced brain injury that occurs in the setting of ADAMTS13 deficiency.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide new evidence for ADAMTS13 in reducing VWF-mediated acute cerebral inflammation following ischemic stroke.

Immune complexes and late complement proteins trigger activation of Syk tyrosine kinase in human CD4(+) T cells

In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the autoantibodies that form immune complexes (ICs) trigger activation of the complement system. This results in the formation of membrane attack complex (MAC) on cell membrane and the soluble terminal complement complex (TCC). Hyperactive T cell responses are hallmark of SLE pathogenesis. How complement activation influences the T cell responses in SLE is not fully understood. We observed that aggregated human γ-globulin (AHG) bound to a subset of CD4(+) T cells in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and this population increased in the SLE patients. Human naive CD4(+) T cells, when treated with purified ICs and TCC, triggered recruitment of the FcRγ chain with the membrane receptor and co-localized with phosphorylated Syk. These events were also associated with aggregation of membrane rafts. Thus, results presented suggest a role for ICs and complement in the activation of Syk in CD4(+) T cells. Thus, we propose that the shift in signalling from ζ-chain-ZAP70 to FcRγ chain-Syk observed in T cells of SLE patients is triggered by ICs and complement. These results demonstrate a link among ICs, complement activation and phosphorylation of Syk in CD4(+) T cells.

Developing biochemical and molecular markers for cyanobacterial inoculants

Markers for evaluating the establishment of cyanobacteria based on their sensitivity or resistance to antibiotics, saccharide utilization patterns and PCR generated fingerprints were developed. Four selected strains (isolates from rhizosphere soils of diverse agro-ecosystems) have shown potential as diazotrophs and exhibited plant growth promoting abilities. Different responses were obtained on screening against 40 antibiotics, which aided in developing selectable antibiotic markers for each strain. Biochemical profiles generated using standardized chromogenic identification system (including saccharide utilization tests) revealed that 53 % of the saccharides tested were not utilized by any strain, while some strains exhibited unique ability for utilization of saccharides such as melibiose, cellobiose, maltose and glucosamine. PCR based amplification profiles developed using a number of primers based on repeat sequences revealed the utility of 3 primers in providing unique fingerprints for the strains.

Electrical characterization of self-assembled monolayers of alkyltrichlorosilanes on native oxide of silicon

The octadecyltrichlorosilane (C18), dodecyltrichlorosilane (C12) and octyltrichlorosilane (C8) monolayers have been deposited on the native oxide of silicon by self-assembly technique. The morphology of the monolayers studied by atomic force microscopy revealed an average roughness of approximately 1.0 A. The Fourier Transform Infra Red Spectroscopic measurements revealed the presence of peaks at approximately 2848 and 2915 cm(-1) indicating the formation of densely packed monolayers. The current density versus voltage (J-V) measurements using mercury drop as counter electrode showed tunneling current between 10(-5) to 10(-8) A/cm2 at 1 V indicating the excellent dielectric behaviour of these monolayers. The J-V data were fitted to Simmons theory of tunneling which yielded an effective electron energy barrier height of 1.6 +/- 0.2 eV and the effective mass of electron tunneling through the barrier was found to be 0.3 +/- 0.03 m(e). The tunneling decay factor beta was estimated from the current density values measured as a function of thickness of the monolayer and was found to be 0.28 +/- 0.02 A(-1).

Measurement of biomarkers in juvenile idiopathic arthritis patients and their significant association with disease severity: a comparative study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate in juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) patients a biomarker panel of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies, cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP), C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), IgM rheumatoid factor (RF), IgG RF, and IgA RF and compare to the presence of joint erosions (JE), joint space narrowing (JSN), and synovitis in order to evaluate aggressive disease.

METHODS

Sixty-eight JIA patients (19 RF positive polyarthritis, 23 RF negative polyarthritis, 17 persistent oligoarthritis, and 9 systemic-onset) were evaluated using the biomarker panel and compared to 18 healthy controls. All RF isotypes, anti-CCP antibodies, and COMP were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA). Statistically significant differences and associations were assessed for each biomarker in relation to JE, JSN, and synovitis. Multiple regression analysis was used to find the variables associated with joint damage and synovitis.

RESULTS

Patients with JE and JSN had significantly elevated levels of IgA RF, IgM RF, and anti-CCP antibodies. COMP levels were higher in early disease, but also later in disease in patients with no JE or JSN. ESR, CRP, and IgA RF were significantly elevated in patients with active synovitis. Regression analysis showed IgM RF and disease duration to be associated with JE and JSN. Anti-CCP antibodies and COMP were also associated with JSN. CRP and IgA RF were associated with synovitis.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrate the importance of measuring IgM RF and IgA RF by ELISA and anti-CCP antibodies by ELISA, in addition to COMP in the assessment of JIA patients to determine severity of disease.

Formation of platelet strings and microthrombi in the presence of ADAMTS-13 inhibitor does not require P-selectin or beta3 integrin

BACKGROUND

Ultra-large von Willebrand factor (ULVWF) and the receptor P-selectin are released from endothelial Weibel-Palade bodies during injury or inflammation. VWF mediates platelet adhesion and P-selectin promotes leukocyte rolling. ADAMTS-13 limits the duration of platelet adhesion by cleaving the ULVWF. In the absence of ADAMTS-13, long VWF filaments decorated with platelets form. Recent in vitro studies suggested that P-selectin might anchor these platelet strings to endothelium, but whether the same mechanism exists in vivo remains to be elucidated.

METHODS

We address the role of P-selectin and beta(3) integrin in platelet string formation in vivo using intravital microscopy by infusing inhibitory ADAMTS-13 antibody in P-selectin-/- and beta(3)-deficient mice and activating the endothelium by injecting histamine.

RESULTS

We show that inhibition of ADAMTS-13 combined with endothelial activation leads to similar extents of platelet string formation in wild-type, P-selectin- and integrin beta(3)-deficient mice. Further, in venules the platelet strings can coalesce into VWF-platelet aggregates. This process utilizes neither the platelet beta(3) integrin nor P-selectin. We also show in vitro that platelets can act as a bridge between the VWF fibers and that VWF can self-associate even in areas devoid of platelets.

CONCLUSIONS

The formation or retention of the platelet strings does not require P-selectin or the endothelial VWF receptor alpha(v)beta(3). Furthermore, in the presence of low ADAMTS-13 activity, VWF-dependent and alpha(IIb)beta(3)-independent platelet clustering occurs in veins, as has been shown at high arterial shear rates. Our study further supports the importance of regulation of VWF multimer size upon secretion from Weibel-Palade bodies.

Abnormal kappa:lambda light chain ratio in circulating immune complexes as a marker for B cell activity in juvenile idiopathic arthritis

Patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) have been shown to have elevated levels of circulating immune complexes (CICs) which correlated with disease activity. Our aim was to assess B cell activity by measuring the amount of and the kappa:lambda chain immunoglobulin light (L) chain ratio in CICs from JIA patients and to determine potential evidence for either an antigen-driven response or B-cell receptor editing. We used an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to measure kappa and lambda chains present in the CICs from the sera of patients with JIA. Statistical analysis was performed using Pearson's correlation, one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni post hoc analysis. Sera from 44 JIA patients were examined for the concentration of L chains in CICs. Healthy controls had a kappa:lambda chain ratio of 1.2:1, whereas this ratio was reversed among JIA subgroups with RF-positive polyarthritis (1:1.2), RF-negative polyarthritis (1:1.3), oligoarthritis (1:2.3) and systemic-onset arthritis (1:2.5). In addition, overall lambda chain selection was not significantly associated with a particular immunoglobulin heavy (H) chain and occurred with all immunoglobulin isotypes. We showed preferential selection of lambda chains contributing to the formation of potentially pathogenic CICs from JIA patients, of all onset types compared to healthy controls, in an H chain-independent manner. The reversal of kappa:lambda chain ratio within the JIA CICs and association with all immunoglobulin isotypes demonstrated the potential for L chain editing. Furthermore, we conclude that a reversal of the normal kappa:lambda chain ratio in JIA CICs may be used as a marker for increased B-cell activity.

Presence of plasma complement regulatory proteins clusterin (Apo J) and vitronectin (S40) on circulating immune complexes (CIC)

The complement regulatory (CR) proteins clusterin and vitronectin bind to the membrane attack complex (MAC) and thus prevent cytolysis. In this report, we demonstrate the presence of both of these CR proteins on MAC bound to circulating immune complexes (CIC). We measured the amount of clusterin and vitronectin on MAC in plasma, also referred to as soluble MAC (SMAC), as well as on MAC bound to CIC (MAC-CIC), using antibody directed to polymerized C9 in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. We observed a strong correlation among the quantities of SMAC and MAC-CIC. The amount of both clusterin and vitronectin associated with MAC-CIC was two- to threefold higher in comparison to the SMAC. Patients with high levels of clusterin and vitronectin demonstrated renal involvement. We hypothesize that these complement regulatory proteins besides regulating the insertion of MAC play other critical roles, in disease pathogenesis.

Impaired motor coordination in mice lacking the EDA exon of the fibronectin gene

The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an important role in the central nervous system (CNS) by modulating the migration of cells, axons and dendrites of neurons. Fibronectin (FN) is a major component of the ECM in the CNS and plays essential roles in development, cell adhesion and cell migration. Specific FN-isoforms, generated by alternative splicing at three conserved regions, the extra domain B (EDB), extra domain A (EDA) and type III homologies connecting segment (IIICS), have been shown to modulate these processes in vitro and in vivo. The inclusion of the EDA exon in the brain is highly regulated during development and aging, suggesting an important role of this exon in brain function. However, the direct role of FN-isoforms in brain function and behaviour is still obscure. Therefore, to directly assess the role of the FN-EDA exon in vivo, we have generated two mouse strains devoid of EDA exon regulated splicing in the FN gene that constitutively include (EDA(+/+)) or exclude (EDA(-/-)) the EDA exon in all tissues. Here, we show the behavioural consequences of the absence of regulated splicing of the EDA exon in the FN gene. Deletion of the EDA domain in the FN protein results in reduced motor-coordination abilities and vertical exploratory capacity, whereas mice that constitutively include the EDA domain displayed a decrease in locomotory activity in the open field (OF) test. These results strongly suggest that regulated splicing of the EDA exon is necessary for a normal function of the brain.