Major sources of sinking particulate organic matter in the western Bay of Bengal

Impacts of river discharge on coastal ocean processes are multi-dimensional. Studies on sinking particle fluxes, composition and their seasonal variability in coastal oceans are very limited. In this study, we investigated the impact of river discharge on seasonal variability in sinking fluxes of total mass, biogenic and lithogenic material in a river-dominated continental margin, western coastal Bay of Bengal. Higher POC, lithogenic and total mass fluxes were found during early southwest monsoon, and are decoupled with peak river discharge and elevated primary production. It is attributed to cross-shelf transport of re-suspended surface sediments from shelf region. Peak river discharge followed by elevated chlorophyll-a suggest nutrients supply though river discharge support primary production. Elemental C:N ratios, δ13C and δ15N results likely suggest that both marine and terrestrial sources contributed to sinking POM, . Overall, higher sinking fluxes during southwest monsoon than rest of the year suggest that seasonal river discharge exerts considerable impact on sinking fluxes in the western coastal Bay of Bengal.

Impact of atmospheric dry deposition of nutrients on phytoplankton pigment composition and primary production in the coastal Bay of Bengal

Atmospheric deposition of pollutants decreases pH and increases the nutrient concentration in the surface water. To examine its impact on coastal phytoplankton composition and primary production, monthly atmospheric aerosol samples were mixed with coastal waters in the microcosm experiments. These experiments suggested that the biomass of Bacillariophyceae, Dinophyceae and Chlorophyceae were increased and primary production of the coastal waters increased by 3 to 19% due to the addition of aeolian nutrients. The increase in primary production displayed significant relation with a concentration of sulphate and nitrate in the atmospheric aerosols suggesting that both decreases in pH and fertilization enhanced primary production. The impact of acidification on primary production was found to be 22%, whereas 78% was contributed by the nutrient increase. The atmospheric pollution is increasing rapidly over the northern Indian Ocean since past two decades due to rapid industrialization. Hence, it is suggested that the impact of atmospheric pollution on the coastal ecosystem must be included in the numerical models to predict possible changes in the coastal ecosystem due to climate change.

Changes in the behaviour of monocyte subsets in acute post-traumatic sepsis patients

Trauma remains a major public health problem worldwide, marked as the fourth leading cause of death among all diseases. Trauma patients who survived at initial stages in the Emergency Department (ED), have significantly higher chances of mortality due to sepsis associated complications in the ICU at the later stage. There is paucity of literature regarding the role of circulating monocytes subsets and development of sepsis complications following trauma haemorrhagic shock (THS). The study was conducted to investigate the circulating level of monocyte subsets (Classical, Inflammatory, and Patrolling) and its functions in patients with acute post-traumatic sepsis. A total 72, THS patients and 30 age matched healthy controls were recruited. Blood samples were collected at different time points on days 1, 7, and 14 to measure the serum levels of cytokines by Cytometric bead assay (CBA), for the immunophenotyping of monocytes subsets, and also for the cell sorting of monocytes subsets for the functional studies. The circulating levels of monocytes subsets were found to be significantly differs among THS patients, who developed sepsis when compared with others who did not. The levels of patrolling monocytes were elevated in THS patients who developed sepsis and showed negative correlation with Sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score on days 7 and 14. Classical monocytes responded strongly to bacterial TLR-agonist (LPS) and produced anti-inflammatory cytokines, whereas patrolling monocytes responded with viral TLR agonist TLR-7/8 (R848) and produced inflammatory cytokines in post-traumatic sepsis patients. In conclusion, this study shows disparity in the behaviour of monocytes subsets in patients with acute post-traumatic sepsis.

[MutL Protein from the Neisseria gonorrhoeae Mismatch Repair System: Interaction with ATP and DNA]

The mismatch repair system (MMR) ensures the stability of genetic information during DNA replication in almost all organisms. Mismatch repair is initiated after recognition of a non-canonical nucleotide pair by the MutS protein and the formation of a complex between MutS and MutL. Eukaryotic and most bacterial MutL homologs function as endonucleases that introduce a single-strand break in the daughter strand of the DNA, thus activating the repair process. However, many aspects of the functioning of this protein remain unknown. We studied the ATPase and DNA binding functions of the MutL protein from the pathogenic bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NgoMutL), which exhibits endonuclease activity. For the first time, the kinetic parameters of ATP hydrolysis by the full-length NgoMutL protein were determined. Its interactions with single- and double-stranded DNA fragments of various lengths were studied. NgoMutL was shown to be able to efficiently form complexes with DNA fragments that are longer than 40 nucleotides. Using modified DNA duplexes harboring a 2-pyridyldisulfide group on linkers of various lengths, we obtained NgoMutL conjugates with DNA for the first time. According to these results, the Cys residues of the wild-type protein are located at a distance of approximately 18-50 Å from the duplex. The efficiency of the affinity modification of Cys residues in NgoMutL with reactive DNAs was shown to decrease in the presence of ATP or its non-hydrolyzable analog, as well as ZnCl2, in the reaction mixture. We hypothesize that the conserved Cys residues of the C-terminal domain of NgoMutL, which are responsible for the coordination of metal ions in the active center of the protein, are involved in its interaction with DNA. This information may be useful in reconstruction of the main stages of MMR in prokaryotes that are different from γ-proteobacteria, as well as in the search for new targets for drugs against N. gonorrhoeae.

Tumor microenvironment: Challenges and opportunities in targeting metastasis of triple negative breast cancer

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is most aggressive subtype of breast cancers with high probability of metastasis as well as lack of specific targets and targeted therapeutics. TNBC is characterized with unique tumor microenvironment (TME), which differs from other subtypes. TME is associated with induction of proliferation, angiogenesis, inhibition of apoptosis and immune system suppression, and drug resistance. Exosomes are promising nanovesicles, which orchestrate the TME by communicating with different cells within TME. The components of TME including transformed ECM, soluble factors, immune suppressive cells, epigenetic modifications and re-programmed fibroblasts together hamper antitumor response and helps progression and metastasis of TNBCs. Therefore, TME could be a therapeutic target of TNBC. The current review presents latest updates on the role of exosomes in modulation of TME, approaches for targeting TME and combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors and target chemotherapeutics. Finally, we also discussed various phytochemicals that alter genetic, transcriptomic and proteomic profiles of TME along with current challenges and future implications. Thus, as TME is associated with the hallmarks of TNBC, the understanding of the impact of different components can improve the clinical benefits of TNBC patients.

Association of dietary intake below recommendations and micronutrient deficiencies during pregnancy and low birthweight

Background Pregnancy is associated with biochemical changes leading to increased nutritional demands for the developing fetus that result in altered micronutrient status. The Indian dietary pattern is highly diversified and the data about dietary intake patterns, blood micronutrient profiles and their relation to low birthweight (LBW) is scarce. Methods Healthy pregnant women (HPW) were enrolled and followed-up to their assess dietary intake of nutrients, micronutrient profiles and birthweight using a dietary recall method, serum analysis and infant weight measurements, respectively. Results At enrolment, more than 90% of HPW had a dietary intake below the recommended dietary allowance (RDA). A significant change in the dietary intake pattern of energy, protein, fat, vitamin A and vitamin C (P < 0.001) was seen except for iron (Fe) [chi-squared (χ2) = 3.16, P = 0.177]. Zinc (Zn) deficiency, magnesium deficiency (MgDef) and anemia ranged between 54-67%, 18-43% and 33-93% which was aggravated at each follow-up visit (P ≤ 0.05). MgDef was significantly associated with LBW [odds ratio (OR): 4.21; P = 0.01] and the risk exacerbate with the persistence of deficiency along with gestation (OR: 7.34; P = 0.04). Pre-delivery (OR: 0.57; P = 0.04) and postpartum (OR: 0.37; P = 0.05) anemia, and a vitamin A-deficient diet (OR: 3.78; P = 0.04) were significantly associated with LBW. LBW risk was much higher in women consuming a vitamin A-deficient diet throughout gestation compared to vitamin A-sufficient dietary intake (OR: 10.00; P = 0.05). Conclusion The studied population had a dietary intake well below the RDA. MgDef, anemia and a vitamin A-deficient diet were found to be associated with an increased likelihood of LBW. Nutrient enrichment strategies should be used to combat prevalent micronutrient deficiencies and LBW.

Role of Trace Elements, Oxidative Stress and Immune System: a Triad in Premature Ovarian Failure

The risk of premature ovarian failure (POF) increases in association with alteration in immunological parameters and oxidative stress (OS). Adequate intake of trace elements is required for antioxidant property and immune defense mechanism. The aim of this study was to explore the involvement of trace elements, OS, and immunological parameters in POF. This was a cross-sectional, case-control study, involving 65 participants divided into the POF (n = 35) and control (n = 30) groups. Serum levels of Se, Zn, and Cu were determined along with hormonal, OS, and immunological markers. POF group had significantly lower levels of Zn, Cu, Se, and Zn:Cu ratio. However, Se:Cu ratio was not significant between the groups. FSH and LH levels were negatively correlated with Zn and Cu levels and positively correlated with Se levels. Estrogen levels were negatively correlated with all the studied trace elements. Inter-element association between Zn and Se was significant in POF (r = - 0.39, p = 0.02) compared to control group (r = - 0.078, p = 0.65). In all the POF patients, SOD and GPx activities were significantly (p < 0.05) lower and MDA level was higher (p > 0.05) than control group. B cell marker CD19 was significantly (p < 0.0001) high in POF group. There are involvement of trace elements in hormonal regulation and antioxidant defense mechanism, which once gets altered leads to high ROS generation and affect functions of the immune system. Exaggereative immune system causing higher expression of B cell associated markers (CD19) leading to autoimmune condition in POF.

Indocyanine green clearance test to evaluate liver function in rat model of extrahepatic biliary atresia

BACKGROUND

Indocyanine green clearance test (ICG-K) has been shown as a sensitive marker of liver function in patients with cirrhosis. However, its role in the assessment of liver function in children with biliary atresia is not well established. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the ICG-K in an experimental model of cholangitis and partial biliary obstruction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty albino rats were divided into 3 groups of 10 each. After exploration under anesthesia, a vial of OK-432 diluted in 0.2 ml of normal saline was injected into the common bile duct (CBD) in rats of Groups B and C. In the control Group A, only saline was injected. Re-exploration was done at 3 weeks in Groups A and B and at 6 weeks in Group C, and freshly prepared ICG was injected into the inferior vena cava. Blood samples were collected at periodic intervals, optical density of the serum was measured, and half-life of ICG and fractional clearance (K) were calculated. Blood and tissue samples were obtained for biochemical tests and histological examination.

RESULTS

The histological changes in CBD and liver were maximum in Group B; this correlated well with the K-value in this group, which was significantly delayed. In Group C, clearance was delayed than the control group with histological changes ranged from mild to moderate inflammation. The control group had normal histology of liver and CBD, and only four rats showed mild portal inflammation.

CONCLUSION

ICG clearance rate is a reliable marker of liver function and can be utilized for evaluation of liver function in postoperative extrahepatic biliary atresia patients.

IL-12 and IL-23 modulate plasticity of FoxP3+ regulatory T cells in human Leprosy

Leprosy is a bacterial disease caused by M. leprae. Its clinical spectrum reflects the host's immune response to the M. leprae and provide an ideal model to investigate the host pathogen interaction and immunological dysregulation. Tregs are high in leprosy patients and responsible for immune suppression of the host by producing IL-10 and TGF-β cytokines. In leprosy, plasticity of Tregs remain unstudied. This is the first study describing the conversion of Tregs into Th1-like and Th17-like cells using in vitro cytokine therapy in leprosy patients. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from leprosy patients were isolated and stimulated with M. leprae antigen (MLCwA), rIL-12 and rIL-23 for 48h. Expression of FoxP3 in CD4⁺CD25⁺ Tregs, intracellular cytokines IFN-γ, TGF-β, IL-10 and IL-17 in Tregs cells were evaluated by flow cytometry (FACS) after stimulation. rIL-12 treatment increases the levels of pStat4 in Tregs and IFN-γ production. In the presence of rIL-23, pStat3⁺ and IL-17A⁺ cells increase. rIL-12 and r-IL-23 treatment downregulated the FoxP3 expression, IL-10 and TGF-β production by Tregs and enhances the expression of co-stimulatory molecules (CD80, CD86). In conclusion rIL-12 converts Tregs into IFN-γ producing cells through STAT-4 signaling while rIL-23 converts Tregs into IL-17 producing cells through STAT-3 signaling in leprosy patients. This study may helpful to provide a new avenue to overcome the immunosuprression in leprosy patients using in vitro cytokine.

Micronutrients Drift During Daily and Weekly Iron Supplementation in Non-anaemic and Anaemic Pregnancy

AIMS

Pregnancy is a phenomenon associated with dynamic changes in physical, mental and biochemical status of body and demands increased nutritional intake for developing foetus. The level of various micronutrients which act as co-factors for antioxidant enzymes or it-self as antioxidants gets altered with the progression of pregnancy. The present longitudinal study summarized the trend of selected micronutrients level in anaemic (AP) and non-anaemic primigravida (NAP) supplemented with daily and weekly oral iron folic acid (IFA) tablet during pregnancy and postpartum.

METHODS

A total of 200 primigravida {N = 100; NAP (Hb > 11 g/dl) and N = 100 AP (Hb = 8-11 g/dl) assigned daily (N = 50) and weekly (N = 50) supplementation} were recruited and overnight fasting blood samples were withdrawn at 13-16 weeks, after 3 months and 6 weeks postpartum. The serum iron, copper, zinc, magnesium and manganese were estimated by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrophotometer.

RESULTS

Serum manganese (p < 0.05) at baseline and magnesium (p < 0.01) at postpartum was significantly different between NAP and AP supplemented with daily IFA tablets. The trend of copper found to be increased during pregnancy and later declined at postpartum in both the groups. Daily supplementation resulted in significantly high iron (p < 0.05) in NAP during third trimester.

CONCLUSIONS

Hypozincemia and hypomagnesemia was observed in anaemic pregnancy supplemented with weekly and daily IFA respectively. Clear evidence of altered micronutrients levels during healthy and anaemic pregnancy was seen. The reference values may be drawn from this study for the nutritional assessment during pregnancy for healthy pregnancy outcomes.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trial Registry-India, http://ctri.nic.in, CTRI/2014/10/005135.

Coexistence of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg imbalances in patients with post traumatic sepsis

INTRODUCTION

Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) developed due to the insult of trauma is a leading cause of death. The high mortality rate in these patients with and without sepsis has been reported up to 50%, throughout the world and thus required an urgent insight to overcome this problem.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to examine the differential changes in subsets of T cells, imbalance in cytokine profile, immune-paralysis (T cell anergy) in Trauma hemorrhagic shock (THS) and post traumatic sepsis patients.

METHODOLOGY

114, THS patients and 50 healthy controls were recruited in the present study. We have measured the T cell proliferation assay using dominant antigens of both gram positive (LTA, 100ng/ml) and gram negative (LPS-100ng/ml) bacteria and PHA (4μg/ml) using radioactive thymidine (1H³) assay. Simultaneously, we have measured the culture supernatant level of cytokines using Cytokine bead assay (CBA). The other parts of this study include the analysis of different subsets of T cells.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

We observed significantly (P<0.05) reduced T cell proliferation in THS patients as compared to control. Our study also showed patients died due to sepsis/septic shock, had significantly (p<0.05) lower T cell response and had significantly elevated levels of IL-4, IL-10andTGF-β, but low level of IL-2andIFN-γ in culture supernatant. THS patients who developed sepsis complication had significantly higher T regulatory cells and lower Th17 cells in comparison to non-sepsis. In conclusion, our study showed an imbalance in cell mediated immune response and disturbance in Th1/Th2/Th17 and T reg population of T helper cells and also the shifts towards Th2 and T17 in THS patients who had developed sepsis and showed poor outcomes.

Evaluation of circulating haematopoietic progenitor cells in patients with Trauma Haemorrhagic shock and its correlation with outcomes

Background:

Haemorrhagic shock accounts up to 50% of early trauma deaths. Hematopoietic failure has been observed in experimental animals and human following shock and injury. One of the facets of bone marrow failure is multiple organ dysfunction syndrome and is commonly seen in patients recovering from severe trauma and hemorrhagic shock. Bone Marrow (BM) dysfunction is associated with mobilization of hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) into peripheral blood. Present study explored the association of peripheral blood hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) with mortality in trauma haemorrhagic shock patients (T/HS).

Materials and Methods:

Prospective cohort studies of patients presenting within 8 hrs of injury with T/HS to the Department of Emergency Medicine, Jai Prakash Narayan Apex Trauma Center, All India Institute of Medical Sciences were recruited. Peripheral blood samples were collected in each patient for measurement of peripheral blood HPCs. Peripheral blood progenitor cell (PBPC) quantification was performed by measuring HPCs counts using the haematology analyzer (Sysmex XE-2100). Clinical and laboratory data were prospectively collected after consent. Ethical approval was taken and data was analysed by Stata 11.2.

Results:

39 patients with trauma hemorrhagic shock and 30 normal healthy controls were recruited. HPCs were significantly higher (P < 0.001) in the T/HS as compared to control. Among study group, 14 patients died within 24 h. at the hospital admission, and found HPCs concentrations were highly significant (<0.001) in non-survivors (n = 14) when compared with survivors (n = 25) among T/HS patients.

Conclusions:

Our studies suggest the peripheral blood HPCs may be early prognostic marker for mortality among patients who presented with trauma hemorrhagic shock on admission. But the exact molecular mechanism and signalling pathway involved in the change of the behaviour of bone marrow microenvironment is still unclear.

Bone marrow hematopoietic stem cells behavior with or without growth factors in trauma hemorrhagic shock

Background:

Hemorrhagic shock (HS) is the major leading cause of death after trauma. Up to 50% of early deaths are due to massive hemorrhage. Excessive release of pro-inflammatory cytokine and hypercatecholamine induces hematopoietic progenitor cells (HPCs) apoptosis, leading to multiorgan failure and death. However, still, result remains elusive for hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) behavior in trauma HS (T/HS).

Objectives:

Therefore, our aim was to evaluate the in vitro HSCs behavior with or without recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO), recombinant human granulocyte macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (rhGM-CSF), recombinant human interleukin-3 (rhIL-3) alone, and combination with rhEPO + rhGM-CSF + rhIL-3 (EG3) in T/HS patients.

Methodology:

Bone marrow (BM) aspirates (n = 14) were collected from T/HS patients, those survived on day 3. BM cells were cultured for HPCs: Colony-forming unit-erythroid (CFU-E), burst-forming unit-erythroid (BFU-E), and colony-forming unit-granulocyte, monocyte/macrophage colonies growth. HPCs were counted with or without rhEPO, rhGM-CSF, rhIL-3 alone, and combination with EG3 in T/HS patients.

Results:

BM HSCs growth significantly suppressed in T/HS when compared with control group (P < 0.05). In addition, CFU-E and BFU-E colony growth were increased with additional growth factor (AGF) (rhEPO, rhGM-CSF, and rhIL-3) as compared to baseline (without AGF) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Suppressed HPCs may be reactivated by addition of erythropoietin, GM-CSF, IL-3 alone and with combination in T/HS.

Nasal delivery of PLG microparticle encapsulated defensin peptides adjuvanted gp41 antigen confers strong and long-lasting immunoprotective response against HIV-1

Defensins display immunostimulatory activities including a chemotactic effect for T lymphocytes/immature dendritic cells and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines suggest their role in bridging innate and adaptive immunity. We hypothesized whether defensins with separately emulsified HIV-1 immunogen would elicit peptide-specific systemic and mucosal antibody response in mice. The HIV-1 peptide alone in microsphere showed low peptide-specific antibody response in sera and different washes, while the presence of defensins markedly increased the antibody peak titre both in sera (102,400-409,600) (p < 0.05) and in washes (800-25,600) (p < 0.001). Defensins with HIV-1 peptide were showing 43.0-83.2% and 38.7-72.3% in vitro neutralization against laboratory isolates in serum and lavage samples, respectively, higher than HIV-1 peptide alone. Our findings may have implications in the development of new mucosal adjuvant for AIDS vaccination.

Comparison of haematological and biochemical changes between non-anaemic and anaemic primigravid women in a north Indian population to establish normative values

Pregnancy is accompanied by several haemodynamic, biochemical and haematological changes, which may lead to severe problems, if they are not suitably addressed. The current study highlights the haematological and biochemical differences observed in anaemic (AP) and non-anaemic primigravida (NAP), in the 2nd trimester, in a north Indian population. There were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the body weight and body temperature of NAP compared with AP. A significant decrease (p < 0.001) in haematological parameters including haemoglobin, haematocrit, erythrocyte count, MCH and MCHC, was observed in AP; however, MCV was found to be significantly higher (p = 0.038). Many biochemical parameters viz. potassium, albumin, total protein and calcium levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.01) in AP, except alkaline phosphatase whose level was found significantly increased (p < 0.01). The findings of the study suggest that haematological and biochemical changes take place in anaemia during pregnancy. Further, the results obtained should be used for establishing normative values for similar populations.

Current understanding of HIV-1 and T-cell adaptive immunity: progress to date

The cellular immune response to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has different components originating from both the adaptive and innate immune systems. HIV cleverly utilizes the host machinery to survive by its intricate nature of interaction with the host immune system. HIV evades the host immune system at innate ad adaptive, allows the pathogen to replicate and transmit from one host to another. Researchers have shown that HIV has multipronged effects especially on the adaptive immunity, with CD4(+) cells being the worst effect T-cell populations. Various analyses have revealed that, the exposure to HIV results in clonal expansion and excessive activation of the immune system. Also, an abnormal process of differentiation has been observed suggestive of an alteration and blocks in the maturation of various T-cell subsets. Additionally, HIV has shown to accelerate immunosenescence and exhaustion of the overtly activated T-cells. Apart from causing phenotypic changes, HIV has adverse effects on the functional aspect of the immune system, with evidences implicating it in the loss of the capacity of T-cells to secrete various antiviral cytokines and chemokines. However, there continues to be many aspects of the immune- pathogenesis of HIV that are still unknown and thus required further research in order to convert the malaise of HIV into a manageable epidemic.

Preparation of peptide microspheres using tumor antigen-derived peptides

Due to its distinct biological attributes, poly(D,L lactide-co glycolide) (PLGA) is one of the most preferred methods for DNA/protein/peptide encapsulation for therapeutics. Importantly, PLGA acts as an adjuvant for weakly immunogenic antigens and mimics booster responses after a single dose of administration, thereby serving as a single-shot vaccine delivery vehicle. Efficient delivery of antigens to antigen-presenting cells (APC) has been made possible by the use of a PLGA particle-based vaccine delivery system. Also, the plasma half-life of the PLGA-encapsulated vaccine increases as it is protected from degradation, prior to its further release. PLGAs are reported to be catabolized into individual nontoxic units once inside the host and further degraded via normal metabolic pathways. In this chapter, we have described the preparation and characterization of tumor peptide encapsulated PLGA microparticles as a model for controlled-release peptide delivery system.

Multiple antigen peptide containing B and T cell epitopes of F1 antigen of Yersinia pestis showed enhanced Th1 immune response in murine model

Yersinia pestis is a facultative bacterium that can survive and proliferate inside host macrophages and cause bubonic, pneumonic and systemic infection. Apart from humoral response, cell-mediated protection plays a major role in combating the disease. Fraction 1 capsular antigen (F1-Ag) of Y. pestis has long been exploited as a vaccine candidate. In this study, F1-multiple antigenic peptide (F1-MAP or MAP)-specific cell-mediated and cytokine responses were studied in murine model. MAP consisting of three B and one T cell epitopes of F1-antigen with one palmitoyl residue was synthesized using Fmoc chemistry. Mice were immunized with different formulations of MAP in poly DL-lactide-co-glycolide (PLGA) microspheres. F1-MAP with CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG-ODN) as an adjuvant showed enhanced in vitro T cell proliferation and Th1 (IL-2, IFN-γ and TNF-α) and Th17 (IL-17A) cytokine secretion. Similar formulation also showed significantly higher numbers of cytokine (IL-2, IFN-γ)-secreting cells. Moreover, F1-MAP with CpG formulation showed significantly high (P < 0.001) percentage of CD4(+) IFN-γ(+) cells as compared to CD8(+) IFN-γ(+) cells, and also more (CD4- IFN-γ)(+) cells secrete perforin and granzyme as compared to (CD8- IFN-γ)(+) showing Th1 response. Thus, the study highlights the importance of Th1 cytokine and existence of CD4(+) and CD8(+) immune response. This study proposes a new perspective for the development of vaccination strategies for Y. pestis that trigger T cell immune response.

Modulation of HIV peptide antigen specific cellular immune response by synthetic α- and β-defensin peptides

Defensin peptides have their direct role in host defense against microbial infection as innate molecules and also thought to contribute to adaptive immunity by recruiting naïve T-cells and immature dendritic cells at the site of infection through CCR6 receptor. The main aim of the present study is to investigate the efficacy of defensins for the induction of cell mediated immune response against the peptide antigen of HIV-1 encapsulated in PLG microparticles through intranasal (IN) route in mice model. To characterized, we have analyzed T-cell proliferation, Th1/Th2 cytokines, β-chemokines production and IFN-γ/perforin secretion from CD4(+)/CD8(+) T-cells in response to HIV immunogen alone and with defensins at different mucosal site i.e. lamina propria (LP), spleen (SP) and peyer's patches (PP). The cellular immunogenicity of HIV peptide with defensin formulations showed a significantly higher (p<0.001) proliferation response as compared to individual HIV peptide. The enhanced cytokines measurement profile showed mixed Th1 and Th2 type of peptide specific immune response by the incorporation of defensins. In the continuation, enhancement in MIP-1α and RANTES level was also observed in HIV peptide-defensin formulations. The FACS data had revealed that CD4(+)/CD8(+) T-cells showed significantly (p<0.001) higher IFN-γ and perforin secretion in HIV with defensin peptide formulations than HIV antigen alone group. Thus, the study emphasized here that defensin peptides have a potential role as mucosal adjuvant, might be responsible for the induction of cell mediated immunity when administered in mice through IN route with HIV peptide antigen.

Multiple antigen peptide consisting of B- and T-cell epitopes of F1 antigen of Y. pestis showed enhanced humoral and mucosal immune response in different strains of mice

Yersinia pestis is a causative agent of plague. F1 and V antigen based vaccines have shown remarkable protection in experimental animals. In order to develop epitope based immunogen, three B and one T-cell epitopes of F1 antigen with palmitate residue at amino terminal were assembled on a lysine backbone as multiple antigen peptide (MAP or F1-MAP). MAP was characterized by SDS-PAGE, immunoblot and immunoreactivity with anti F1 sera. MAP was entrapped in PLGA (polylactide-co-glycolide) microparticles and humoral, mucosal immune responses were studied after intranasal immunization with/without CpG ODN 1826 (CpG)/murabutide in different strains of mice. Serum and mucosal washes were measured for MAP specific IgG, IgA, sIgA and IgG subclasses in three strains of mice. F1-MAP showed high serum antibody and mucosal IgG and IgA peak antibody titers. MAP with CpG showed significantly high (p<0.001) peak antibody titer ranging from 102,400 to 204,800 for IgG and 6400 to 12,800 for IgA. High mucosal sIgA and its secretary component detection confirmed generation of mucosal response in intestinal and lung washes. MAP antisera also showed significant immunoreactivity with individual peptides. Moreover, antibody specific activity (IgG, IgA and sIgA) positively correlates with peak antibody titers. Predominantly IgG2a/IgG2b subclass was observed with CpG formulation but in other formulation a mixed IgG1 and IgG2a response was observed. The present study highlights the importance of multiple antigen peptide approach of F1-antigen with CpG as an alternative approach for subunit vaccine.

Immunomodulation of ovalbumin-specific IgG and other classes of antibody response by honey in mice

It was reported earlier that intraperitoneal administration of honey had immunosuppressive activity on elicitation of allergen-specific murine antibody response as evaluated by passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and double immunodiffusion methods. In this study, the immunomudulatory effect of honey is evaluated by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using ovalbumin as model allergen. It was found that ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgG antibody responses elicited with various doses of OVA were significantly suppressed by rock bee honey (p<0.01). Honey was also found to have inhibited the production of OVA-specific IgM, IgA, IgG(1), and IgG(2b) whereas that of IgG(2a) and IgG(3) were not affected. Furthermore, honey also suppressed the OVA-specific total IgG antibody response in various inbred mice with different genetic background. In addition, the suppressive activity of honey was examined in different groups of mice by injecting honey at different time intervals, before and after immunization with OVA. The anti-OVA IgG antibody response was suppressed significantly when honey was injected 12 hours prior/latter to OVA injection. These results confirm the suppressive activity of honey on antibody response and suggest possible clinical application.

Enteromorpha compressa (L.) Greville an edible green alga as a source of antiallergic principle (S)

Enteromorpha compressa a marine green algal species grows extensively in North coastal Andhra Pradesh. Besides its nutritional importance it has also been identified as source of anti-anaphylactic compound(s).E. compressa extracts alleviated the IgE levels raised against ovalbumin and other allergens in mice. Further,Enteromorpha extract also significantly down regulated the serum IgE levels in different murine models irrespective of their genetic background. The results obtained in this study suggest thatE. compressa extract has compound(s), which inhibit IgE immune response and may have potential in curing various types of allergies.

Observations on some chemical and physical characteristics of buffalo meat

Proximate composition, sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar protein fractions of buffalo meat were similar to those of beef. Buffalo meat was also rich in lysine. Meat from young animals had a lower collagen content than that from old ones. As the temperature of holding the carcasses was increased, the rate of pH fall was faster. Meat from stressed animals showed a higher ultimate pH. Percentage of cooking loss and thermal shrinkage was higher in muscles of old animals than in young ones, which probably reflected the poor condition of the older animals. Meat cooked by pressure cooking showed lower Warner-Bratzler shear values as compared with meat cooked in boiling water.

Cell-mediated immune response to epitopic MAP (multiple antigen peptide) construct of LcrV antigen of Yersinia pestis in murine model

Yersinia pestis is the causative agent of plague. Cellular immunity seems to play an important role in defense against this disease. The subunit vaccine based on V (Lcr V) antigen has been proved to be immunogenic in animals and in humans. The multiple antigen peptide (MAP), incorporating all the relevant B and T cell epitopes is highly immunogenic in mice through intranasal route of immunization in PLGA particles containing CpG-ODN as an immunoadjuvant inducing humoral and mucosal immune response. In the present study, cell-mediated immune response using same MAP was studied in murine model. Primary and memory T cell responses were studied in outbred and inbred mice immunized intranasally with MAP in the presence of two immunoadjuvants (Murabutide and CpG-ODN). All the three compartments (Spleen, Lamina propria and Peyer's patches) of the lymphoid system showed increased lymphoproliferative response. Highest lymphoproliferative response was observed especially with CpG-ODN. Cytokine profile in the culture supernatant showed highest Th(1) and Th(17) levels. FACS analysis showed expansion of both CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cells producing gamma-interferon, perforin and granzyme-B with major contribution from CD4(+) T cells.

Th3 immune responses in the progression of leprosy via molecular cross-talks of TGF-β, CTLA-4 and Cbl-b

Leprosy is a chronic human disease; primarily affecting skin, peripheral nerves, eyes, testis etc. Comprehensive-expressional-profiling of Th1-Th2-Th3 associated markers (84 genes) using qRT-PCR array, negated the previously prevailing notion, Th2 bias towards multibacillary stage of leprosy. High production TGF-β further supported the dearth of any immune response(s) in leprosy progression. Over expression of Cbl-b, could emerge as plausible reason for contributing T cell hyporesponsiveness, possibly by degradation of T cells signaling molecules. Anti-TGF-β treatments further confirm the TGF-β-dependent-Cbl-b overexpression in multibacillary patients. Diminished Cbl-b expression in CTLA-4 knockout studies using siRNA, provided other evidence towards T cell hyporesponsiveness. Further, high T cell proliferation and IL-2 production in PBMC cultures treated with anti-TGF-β and siRNA offers here a strategy to revert T cell hyporesponsiveness by downregulating Cbl-b expression in leprosy. Thus, this study negates Th2 bias and substantiates molecular cross-talk amongst TGF-β-CTLA-4-Cbl-b eventually leads to M. leprae persistence.

Disruption of HLA-DR raft, deregulations of Lck-ZAP-70-Cbl-b cross-talk and miR181a towards T cell hyporesponsiveness in leprosy

Leprosy, a chronic human disease, results from infection of Mycobacterium leprae. Defective CMI and T cell hyporesponsiveness are the major hallmark of M. leprae pathogenesis. The present study demonstrates immunological-deregulations that eventually lead to T cell anergy/hyporesponsiveness in M. lepare infection. We firstly, evaluated the membrane fluidity and antigen-presenting-lipid-raft (HLA-DR) on macrophages of leprosy patients using fluorescence anisotropy and confocal microscopy, respectively. Increased membrane fluidity and raft-out localizations of over-expressed HLA-DR towards BL/LL pole are pinpointed as major defects, may be leading to defective antigen presentation in leprosy. Furthermore, altered expression and localization of Lck, ZAP-70, etc. and their deregulated cross talks with negative regulators (CD45, Cbl-b and SHP2) turned out to be the major putative reason(s) leading to T cell hyporesponsiveness in leprosy. Deregulations of Lck-ZAP-70 cross-talk in T cells were found to be associated with cholesterol-dependent-dismantling of HLA-DR rafts in macrophages in leprosy progression. Increased molecular interactions between Cbl-b and Lck/ZAP-70 and their subsequent degradation via ubiquitinization pathway, as result of high expression of Cbl-b, were turned out to be one of the principal underlying reason leading to T cell anergy in leprosy patients. Interestingly, overexpression of SHP2 due to gradual losses of miR181a and subsequent dephosphorylation of imperative T cell signaling molecules were emerged out as another important reason associated with prevailing T cell hyporesponsiveness during leprosy progression. Thus, this study for the first time pinpointed overexpression of Cbl-b and expressional losses of miR-181 as important hallmarks of progression of leprosy.

Induction of cell-mediated immune responses to peptide antigens of P. vivax in microparticles using intranasal immunization

T-cells play a critical role in resistance to malaria, not only because they function as helper cells for an antibody response, but also because they serve as effector cells. Such cellular immunity is directly implicated in protection from sporozoites as well as from blood stage parasites. The aim of this study was to induce cell mediated immune responses to peptide antigens of Plasmodium vivax co-encapsulated with CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) in microparticles. In the present study, we have investigated the immunomodulatory effects of two CpG adjuvants, CpG 1826 and CpG 2006 to the five peptide antigens of Plasmodium vivax derived from circumsporozoite protein, merozoite surface protein-1, apical membrane antigen-1 and gametocyte surface antigen (Pvs24) in microparticle delivery. The T-cell proliferation response study of the cells collected from spleen, lamina propria and peyer's patches showed significantly high (p<0.001) stimulation index when primed with peptide antigens in microparticles co-encapsulating CpG ODN adjuvant as compared to peptide alone primed mice. The cytokine measurement profile of IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, IL-2, IL-4 and IL-10 in culture supernatants of cells primed with peptide antigens in microparticles co-encapsulating CpG ODN showed higher levels of IFN- gamma followed by TNF-alpha and IL-2, with relatively low levels of IL-4 and IL-10.

Protective effect of resveratrol and vitamin E against ethanol-induced oxidative damage in mice: biochemical and immunological basis

The metabolism of ethanol gives rise to the generation of excess amounts of reactive oxygen species and is also associated with immune dysfunction. We examined the efficacy of resveratrol and vitamin E on the immunomodulatory activity and vascular function in mice with liver abnormalities induced by chronic ethanol consumption by measuring the protein, liver-specific transaminase enzymes, antioxidant enzymes and non-enzymes such as reduced glutathione (GSH) content, thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) level, nitrite level, and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST), and cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, IL-10, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, gamma interferon (IFN-gamma), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A and transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta1 in mice blood. Ethanol (1.6 g/kg body wt/day) exposure for 12 wks significantly increased TBARS and nitrite levels and GST activity, and significantly decreased GSH content and the activities of SOD, CAT, GR and GPx in whole blood hemolyzate of 8-10 wks-old male BALB/c mice (weighing 20-30 g). Ethanol exposure also elevated the activities of transaminase enzymes (AST and ALT), IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, VEGF-A and TGF-beta1, while decreasing the albumin concentration and IL-4 activity in the serum. Both resveratrol (5 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) and vitamin E (80 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) treatment significantly reduced AST, ALT, GST, IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, VEGF-A and TGF-beta1 activities and levels of TBARS and nitrite, and elevated albumin content, GSH level and activities of SOD, CAT, GR and GPx, compared to ethanol-treated group. Thus, results from the study demonstrated that both resveratrol (5 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) and vitamin E (80 mg kg(-1) day(-1)) can effectively ameliorate ethanol (1.6 g kg(-1) day(-1))-induced oxidative challenges, immunomodulatory activity and angiogenesis processes.

Induction of mucosal and systemic humoral immune responses in murine system by intranasal immunization with peptide antigens of P. vivax and CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) in microparticle delivery

In the present study we have investigated the immunomodulatory effects of two adjuvants, CpG 1826 (two copies of CpG motifs) and CpG 2006 (three copies of CpG motifs) to the five peptide antigens of Plasmodium vivax derived from circumsporozoite protein (CSP), merozoite surface protein-1 (MSP1#1, MSP1#23), apical membrane antigen-1 (AMA-1) and gametocyte surface antigen (Pvs24) in alum and microparticle formulations, using intramuscular and intranasal routes of immunization. Alum formulation without CpG ODN generated low serum IgG and IgA antibody titers and the predominant IgG isotypes were IgG1 but with the addition of CpG ODN (1826 or 2006), the antibody titers were increased by four fold with the predominance of IgG2a/2b isotypes. The SIgA peak titers in lung and intestinal washes were significantly increased with the intranasal mode of administration. Specific activity measurement was done to calculate for the accurate amounts of total serum IgG, IgA and SIgA in washes and showed direct correlation between antibody titer and its concentration. High titer anti-Pvs24 antibodies have significant inhibitory effects on parasite development in the mosquito midgut when tested in membrane feeding assays. The immunofluorescence results show that the peptide specific antisera reacted with the air-dried parasite antigens isolated from P. vivax patients. The present study demonstrates that intranasal route of immunization appears to be an alternate mode of inducing protective immunity in P. vivax malaria.

Time-dependent effects of ethanol on blood oxidative stress parameters and cytokines

Alcohol consumption is implicated in the genesis of a spectrum of liver abnormalities, which are associated with a number of factors. In the present study, time-dependent effects of ethanol on cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IFN-gamma, VEGF-A and TGF-beta1) in serum, and blood oxidative stress parameters such as reduced glutathione content, TBARS level and activities of GPx, GR, GST, catalase and SOD in 8-10 weeks-old male BALB/c mice have been investigated. Ethanol administered @ 1.6 g/kg body wt/day significantly increased the activities of liver marker enzymes AST, ALT and ALP. Serum nitrite levels and haemolysate TBARS level also increased, while total antioxidant status in serum and GSH content in whole blood hemolysate decreased from 4th week onwards of exposure. In spite of the increased serum nitrite level and GST activity in the haemolysate, albumin level in serum, GPx and GR activities in haemolysate decreased after 12 weeks of exposure. Chronic ethanol treatment did not show any effect on IL-2, but IL-4 level was reduced and other cytokines such as IL-10, TNF-alpha, IFN-gamma, TGF-beta1 and VEGF-A levels were increased significantly after 12 weeks. The study indicates a relationship between free radical generation and immune response, and suggests that ethanol-induced liver damage is associated with oxidative stress and immunological alterations in a time-dependent manner.

Suppressive effect of strychnos nux-vomica on induction of ovalbumin-specific IgE antibody response in mice

Strychnos nux-vomica Linn. (SNV; Loganiaceae), a medicinal plant has been used as folk medicine for alleviating inflammation, joint pains and allergic symptoms. In the present study, we examined its possible immunomodulatory effect on induction of ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgE antibody response in a murine model, as evaluated by passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA). The OVA-specific IgE antibody response was significantly suppressed in BALB/c mice (H-2d), following intraperitoneal administration of aqueous stem extract of the plant along with OVA. Furthermore, the different doses of SNV extract were found to significantly suppress the induction of OVA-specific IgE antibody response. The anti-OVA IgE antibody response was suppressed in different haplotypes of mice viz., C57BL/6 (H-2b) and SWR/J (H-29). However, preliminary findings revealed no significant change in the total IgG antibody response against OVA, as evaluated by ELISA. These results confirm the suppressive activity of S. nux-vomica on allergen-specific IgE antibody response and suggest its possible application in allergic conditions.

KEYWORDS

Strychnlos nux-vomica, Immunomodulation, Immunosuppression, IgE antibody response, Passive cutaneous anaphylaxis, ELISA

Inhibition of apoptosis, activation of NKT cell and upregulation of CD40 and CD40L mediated by M. leprae antigen(s) combined with Murabutide and Trat peptide in leprosy patients

Protective immunity against intracellular pathogen Mycobacterium leprae is dependent on the activation of T cells. Repeated stimulation of T cells by M. leprae antigens MLCwA (M. leprae total cell wall antigen) and ManLAM (mannose-capped lipoarabinomannan), may lead to apoptosis in leprosy patients. In the present study, inhibition of the Fas-induced apoptosis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells of leprosy patients was investigated using above M. leprae antigen(s), in combination with immunomodulators murabutide (MB) and a Trat peptide in particulate form (liposome). Incubation of the cells with antigen containing the two immunomodulators in particulate form (liposomes) led to decrease in percentage of propidium iodide positive cells and T cells expressing Fas-FasL as well as decreased caspase-8/-3 activities in lepromatous patients, thereby inhibiting apoptosis, while converse was true upon stimulation with soluble antigen. Concurrently, there was an upregulation of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-xL in lepromatous patients, leading to the inhibition of apoptosis. It was also observed that same formulation upregulated the expression of CD40 on B cells and monocytes-macrophages and CD40L on T cells of lepromatous leprosy patients. The same liposomal formulation significantly increased the expression of CD1b and CD1d on monocytes-macrophages as well as percentage of NKT cells secreting IFN-gamma in lepromatous leprosy patients. Thus, the liposomal formulation of antigen with the immunomodulators in vitro promoted the activation of CD40:CD40L pathways and NKT cell function involved in providing cell-mediated immunity to these patients. The same formulation also caused reversal of T cell anergy by inhibiting apoptosis through decreased expression of death receptors (Fas-FasL) and caspase activities (3 and 8) and increased expression of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-xL in these patients.

Liposomal delivery of Mycobacterium leprae antigen(s) with murabutide and Trat peptide inhibits Fas-mediated apoptosis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells derived from leprosy patients

Protective immunity against intracellular pathogen Mycobacterium leprae is dependent on the activation of T cells. Repeated stimulation of T cells by M. leprae antigens MLCwA (M. leprae total cell wall antigen) and ManLAM (mannose capped lipoarabinomannan) may lead to apoptosis in leprosy patients. In the present study, inhibition of the Fas-induced apoptosis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells of leprosy patients was investigated using above M. leprae antigen(s), in combination with immunomodulators murabutide (MB) and a Trat peptide in particulate form (liposome). Incubation of the cells with particulate mode of antigen presentation led to both decreased percentage of propidium iodide (PI) positive cells and T cells expressing Fas-FasL, as well as decreased caspase-8/-3 activities in the lepromatous patients, thereby inhibiting apoptosis, while converse was true with stimulation with soluble antigen. Concurrently, there was an upregulation of antiapoptotic protein Bcl-X(L) in the lepromatous patients, thereby inhibiting apoptosis. Thus, the liposomal formulation of antigen promoted proliferation of anergized T cell by inhibiting apoptosis through decreased expression of death receptors and caspase activities and increased expression of anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-X(L) in these patients.

Size dependent multiphoton absorption and refraction of CdSe nanoparticles

We report a systematic investigation on nonlinear optical properties of CdSe nanoparticles that are smaller as well as larger than the Bohr radius. Multiphoton absorption and nonlinear refraction properties of CdSe nanoparticles observed with 800nm wavelength and 110femtosecond Ti:Sapphire laser are presented. These nonlinear optical studies were undertaken by performing open and closed aperture Z-scan measurements. The four different sizes of CdSe nanoparticles investigated are 5nm, 10nm, 25nm and 400nm. Both the quantum dots 5nm, 10nm sizes (taking the literature value of 10.6nm as the Bohr exciton diameter) show four photon absorption (4PA), while the 25nm and 400nm show the three photon absorption (3PA) properties. All four sizes of CdSe nanoparticles show the positive nonlinear refraction (n2).

Effect of lecithin with vitamin-B complex and tocopheryl acetate on long-term effect of ethanol induced immunomodulatory activities

The alcoholic liver disease usually causes overall immunological alterations which might be attributed to hepatic disease, to ethanol action, and/or to malnourishment. In the present study, efficacy of lecithin with vitamin-B complex to treat ethanol induced immunomodulatory activity was compared with the effect of lecithin alone and tocopheryl acetate (vitamin E). Ethanol (1.6 g/kg body wt/day for 12 weeks) exposure increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) level, while decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reduced glutathione (GSH) content in whole blood hemolysate of 8-10 week-old male BALB/c mice (weighing 20-30 g). The activities of transaminase (AST and ALT) enzymes, interleukin (IL)-10 and gamma interferon (IFN-gamma) elevated, while IL-2 and IL-4 reduced in mice serum due to ethanol exposure. These suggested that oxidative stress and immunomodulatory activities were interdependent and associated with ethanol induced liver damage. Lecithin treatment significantly reduced AST (32.44%), ALT (32.09%), IL-10 (25.63%) activities and TBARS content (12.76%) compared to ethanol treated group. However, lecithin with vitamin-B complex treatment, significantly reduced AST (62.83%); ALT (61.96%); IL-10 (35.88%); IFN-gamma (22.55%) activities and TBARS content (31.58%), while significantly elevated GSH content (36.49%) and SOD activity (61.21%). Tocopheryl acetate treatment significantly reduced AST (62.83%); ALT (61.54%); IL-10 (36.35%): IFN-gamma (23.28%) activities and TBARS content (35.84%). while significantly elevated GSH content (28.76%) and SOD activity (62.42%) compared to ethanol treated group. These findings persuasively argued that lecithin with vitamin-B complex was a new promising therapeutic approach in controlling ethanol induced immunomodulatory activities involving liver damage processes. Prevention of oxidative stress with correction of nutritional deficiency caused alteration in the ethanol-induced immunomodulatory activities and associated liver diseases.

Alterations in T cell signal transduction by M. leprae antigens is associated with downregulation of second messengers PKC, calcium, calcineurin, MAPK and various transcription factors in leprosy patients

Mycobacterium leprae, the causative agent of leprosy, challenges host defense mechanism by impairing the signal transduction of T cells which leads to downregulation of T cell proliferation, mainly as a consequence of interference with IL-2 production. In this study we sought to identify how soluble forms of M. leprae antigen(s) or particulate (liposome) delivery of the same antigens with two immunomodulators Murabutide and T cell peptide of Trat protein influence the transcription of IL-2 gene in anergic T cells of lepromatous patients. It was demonstrated that MLCwA/ManLAM stimulated cells of BL/LL patients showed defects in both jun-NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) activities there by resulting in decreased AP-1 activity. Additionally these cells showed reduced calcium levels, PKC activity and calcineurin (CN) activity. This led to impaired nuclear translocation of NFkappaB and NFAT in these patients. In contrast, when same M. leprae antigen(s) were incorporated with the two immunomodulators in liposomal form, increased transcription of IL-2 gene was observed especially in BL/LL patients which appears to be due to, at least in part, to increased expression of AP-1 Fos and Jun family members, NFkappaB and NFAT1 proteins. The increased expression of these transcription factors correlated with increased ERK/JNK, PKC and CN activities in these patients. Since activation of ERK/JNK/PKC kinases and CN phosphatase are required for stimulation of IL-2 transcription, these data provide a molecular explanation for the block in IL-2 production by M. leprae antigens. Thus the above study revealed suppression of all the three distinct biochemical pathways, viz. Ca-CN-NFAT pathway, PKC-NF-kappaB pathway, and MAPK-AP-1 pathway by M. leprae antigen(s) in anergized T cells of lepromatous patients which were activated by liposomal delivery of M. leprae antigens containing the two immunomodulators leading to optimal induction of IL-2 gene expression, which was required for the activation, and proliferation of T cells in lepromatous patients.

Obstructive infertility: changes in the histology of different regions of the epididymis and morphology of spermatozoa

In the present study, the effects of prolonged obstruction in different regions of the human epididymis on its histology and on the spermatozoa retained at the site of obstruction were assessed. Men who were confirmed of having obstruction of the epididymis underwent vasoepididymostomy (VEA) for surgical correction of the obstruction. At the time of surgery, fluid from the epididymal tubule above the site of obstruction was aspirated and examined for sperm profile. Epididymal tissue, collected at the site of obstruction, was processed for assessment of histological changes and also used to identify the site of obstruction. Prolonged obstruction of the epididymis has caused degeneration of the epididymal epithelium, gradual decrease in the diameter of the tubule and tubular lumen and increase in the intertubular connective tissue. Sperm aspirated from the caput epididymal fluid showed sluggish pattern of motility only in one out of the six subjects, whereas spermatozoa collected from the cauda epididymal fluid showed rapid linear progressive motility in one of three subjects. A major percentage of spermatozoa in the aspirated fluid showed various types of morphological abnormalities, irrespective of the site of obstruction. These results are discussed in relation to the role of the epididymis in investing spermatozoa with motility and fertilizing capacity.

Development of diagnostic reagents: raising antibodies against synthetic peptides of PfHRP-2 and LDH using microsphere delivery

Malaria causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, including countries with mainly imported malaria. In developing nations, scarce resources lead to inadequate diagnostic procedures. Microscopy of Giemsa-stained thick and thin films remains the current gold standard for diagnosis. Although it has good sensitivity and allows species identification, it is time consuming, requires microscopical expertise and maintenance of equipment. Antigen tests are promising tools for the diagnosis of malaria. Two such antigens are Plasmodium falciparum histidine rich protein (pfHRP-2) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). The present study was aimed to develop indigenous, rapid and sensitive immunodiagnostic method based on detection of PfHRP-2 and LDH antigen in the blood. Unique peptide sequences of PfHRP-2 (two regions) and LDH (three regions) antigen were synthesized by solid phase technique and purified to homogeneity. The antibodies raised against these sequences were raised in mice as well as rabbit using microspheres (PLGA) to generate high titre and affinity antibodies. The peptide-specific peak titres varied from 25,000 to 50,000 and affinity of the antibodies produced was found to be in order of 0.73-5.3 nM. The antibodies generated using microspheres were able to detect the PfHRP-2 and LDH antigen in the culture supernatant and parasitized RBC lysate of P. falciparum respectively by sandwich ELISA up to 0.002% parasitaemia level. The assay allowed the detection of parasite infections of 0.08-2.68% parasitaemia with a sensitivity of 100% in the whole blood of P. falciparum positive patients. No cross-reactivity was observed with P. vivax infected patients.

Inducing systemic and mucosal immune responses to B-T construct of F1 antigen of Yersinia pestis in microsphere delivery

Plague is a zoonotic disease caused by Yersinia pestis, an etiological agent of pneumonic and bubonic plague. There is a need for an improved plague vaccine that may overcome the limitation of presently available whole cell vaccine. An alternative approach described here, is the use of protective epitopes from immunodominant antigen of Y. pestis. One such antigen is the F1 antigen, a major envelope and virulent protein that possess antiphagocytic and anti-microbial properties. The present study was aimed to develop a peptide-based vaccine, based upon the constructs made between B and T cell epitopes of F1 antigen of Y. pestis. The immunogenicity, IgG subclass pattern, affinity, avidity and in vivo protective efficacy of the antibodies generated for different B-T constructs were studied in murine model using microsphere as the delivery vehicle. The mode of immunization was both intranasal and intramuscular, with single and multiple doses of immunization, respectively. Intranasal immunization generated consistent high titre and long lasting immune response both for IgG and IgA in sera and sIgA in washes while intramuscular route generated peak IgG levels in sera only. The IgG isotypic levels pattern showed higher IgG2a/IgG2b levels in intranasal route while mixed isotypic levels of IgG1, IgG2a/IgG2b were observed in intramuscular route. The affinity and relative avidity of antibodies showed best results with intranasal route as compared to the intramuscular route. The specific activity measurement (IgG/IgA content) in sera and washes were well correlated with the antibody levels. Finally, in vivo protective studies showed that B1T1 and B2T1 conjugates protected the mice till day 15 while rest of the conjugates showed poor protection.

Semen quality and sperm functional parameters in fertile Indian men

The reports of a decline in the reproductive health of men worldwide prompted the present study to be undertaken so that baseline semen parameters could be established in Indian men. Semen profile and sperm function parameters were evaluated in 368 Indian men of proven fertility, settled in Delhi. The results of the study were compared with available published information from Indian men. The mean sperm concentration and semen volumes were 68.22 +/- 15.14 x 10(6) ml(-1) and 3.20 +/- 0.94 ml, respectively. Rapid, linear progressive motility and sluggish linear motility were 40.95 +/- 9.15% and 24.95 +/- 7.01%, respectively. A comparison of the results of the present study with earlier published data did not support the contention of a decrease in the semen quality in Indian men.

Investigation of the kinetics of histidine-rich protein 2 and of the antibody responses to this antigen, in a group of malaria patients from India

Although immunological tests based on the detection of histidine-rich protein 2 (HRP2) from the parasites permit the rapid diagnosis of Plasmodium falciparum malaria, such tests are not yet sufficiently sensitive to detect every bloodsmear-positive case. Some individuals infected with P. falciparum may appear test-negative because of the presence of anti-HRP2 antibodies in their sera. A longitudinal follow-up of HRP2 antigenaemia and antibody responses to this antigen has now been conducted in a group of 45, bloodsmear-positive malaria cases of various ages, both during acute infection with P. falciparum and after antimalarial treatment. Pre-treatment, 'day-0' samples of fingerprick blood were tested for HRP2 (in antigen-capture ELISA) and for antigen-specific IgM and IgG (in indirect ELISA). The patients were then treated, with standard doses of chloroquine, before being retested, for HRP2 and anti-HRP2 antibodies, on days 7, 15 and 28. The level of antigenaemia, which on day 0 was found to be positively correlated with parasitaemia (r = 0.741; P < 0.001), had only fallen by an insignificant amount by day 7 but showed further, significant falls between days 7 and 15 (P < 0.001) and between days 15 and 28 (P < 0.01). Although no significant relationship was observed between the blood concentrations of HRP2 and anti-HRP2 IgM or IgG on days 0 or 7, the level of HRP2 antigenaemia was found to be positively correlated with the concurrent titre of anti-HRP2 IgM on day 15 (r = 0.612; P < 0.001) and day 28 (r = 0.501; P < 0.001). The titres of HRP2-specific IgG gradually increased over the 28 days of follow-up but were not found to be significantly correlated with the decreasing levels of HRP2 antigenaemia. When the 45 day-0 samples of blood were tested for HRP2 in a rapid diagnostic test (RDT), three appeared negative, probably because of interference from the circulating, free, anti-HRP2 antibodies in the plasma. The three RDT-negative samples were significantly different from the 42 RDT-positive, having relatively low HRP2 antigenaemias (P < 0.001) and relatively high titres of anti-HRP2 IgM (P < 0.05) and IgG (P < 0.001). Control samples of blood, from four patients infected with P. vivax and five healthy, normal individuals, were considered ELISA-negative for HRP2 and anti-HRP2 IgM or IgG. It appears that, during human infection with P. falciparum, serum levels of HRP2 antigen remain elevated for at least 7 days post-treatment, despite the host's development of antigen-specific immune responses both before and after treatment.