Review of COVID-19 Therapeutics by Mechanism: From Discovery to Approval

The global research and pharmaceutical community rapidly mobilized to develop treatments for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Existing treatments have been repurposed and new drugs have emerged. Here we summarize mechanisms and clinical trials of COVID-19 therapeutics approved or in development. Two reviewers, working independently, reviewed published data for approved COVID-19 vaccines and drugs, as well as developmental pipelines, using databases from the following organizations: United States Food and Drug Administration (US-FDA), European Medicines Agency (EMA), Japanese Pharmaceutical and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA), and ClinicalTrials.gov. In all, 387 drugs were found for initial review. After removing unrelated trials and drugs, 66 drugs were selected, including 17 approved drugs and 49 drugs under development. These drugs were classified into six categories: 1) drugs targeting the viral life cycle 2) Anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 Monoclonal Antibodies, 3) immunomodulators, 4) anti-coagulants, 5) COVID-19-induced neuropathy drugs, and 6) other therapeutics. Among the 49 drugs under development are the following: 6 drugs targeting the viral life cycle, 12 immunosuppression drugs, 2 immunostimulants, 2 HIF-PHD targeting drugs, 3 GM-CSF targeting drugs, 5 anti-coagulants, 2 COVID-19-induced neuropathy drugs, and 17 others. This review provides insight into mechanisms of action, properties, and indications for COVID-19 medications.

Expansion of the Innate Lymphocyte Family: Discovery of IL-22-Producing ILC3s

This Pillars of Immunology article is a commentary on “A human natural killer cell subset provides an innate source of IL-22 for mucosal immunity,” a pivotal article written by M. Cella, A. Fuchs, W. Vermi, F. Facchetti, K. Otero, J. K. M. Lennerz, J. M. Doherty, J. C. Mills, and M. Colonna, and published in Nature, in 2009. https://www.nature.com/articles/nature07537.

Grain, gluten, and dietary fiber intake influence gut microbial diversity: data from the Food and Microbiome Longitudinal Investigation (FAMiLI)

Although short-term feeding studies demonstrated effects of grains, fiber, and gluten on gut microbiome composition, the impact of habitual intake of these dietary factors is poorly understood. We examined whether habitual intakes of whole and refined grains, fiber, and gluten are associated with gut microbiota in a cross-sectional study. This study included 779 participants from the multi-ethnic FAMiLI study. Bacterial 16SV4 rRNA gene from baseline stool was amplified and sequenced using Illumina MiSeq. Read clustering and taxonomic assignment was performed using Qiime2. Usual dietary intake was assessed by a 137-item food frequency questionnaire. Association of diet with gut microbiota was assessed with respect to overall composition and specific taxon abundances. Whole grain intake was associated with overall composition, as measured by the Jensen-Shannon divergence (multivariable-adjusted P-trend for quartiles=0.03). The highest intake quartile was associated with higher abundance of Bacteroides plebeius, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Blautia producta, and Erysipelotrichaceae and lower abundance of Bacteroides uniformis. These bacteria also varied by dietary fiber intake. Higher refined grain and gluten intake was associated with lower Shannon diversity (P-trend<0.05). These findings suggest that whole grain and dietary fiber are associated with overall gut microbiome structure, largely fiber-fermenting microbiota. Higher refined grain and gluten intakes may be associated with lower microbial diversity.

A Two-Part Approach Distinguishing the Occurrence and Frequency of Self-Reported Attentional Failures during Driving to Predict Crash Risks Among Older Drivers

OBJECTIVES

With advancing age, older drivers experience greater fatal crash risks due to age-related declines in cognitive and physical capabilities. Being informed of the age-related increased risks could help older drivers form compensatory strategies and determine when to seek further help to stay on the road safely for longer. Using a self-report assessment tool, the Attentional Failure during Driving Questionnaire (AFDQ), we examined older drivers' experience of various attentional failures during daily driving and how the measures could predict their crash risks.

METHODS

We used a new methodological approach distinguishing the occurrences of attentional failures during driving and the frequency of those occurrences. The individuals' AFDQ occurrence and frequency scores were compared with prior driving outcomes and simulated driving performance.

RESULTS

Unlike middle-aged drivers, frequency rather than occurrence of attentional failures was a significant predictor of prior traffic violations and crashes among older drivers. Also, attentional failures, but not chronological age, predicted older drivers' crash risks. AFDQ frequency was also associated with older drivers' poorer performance in simulated driving.

DISCUSSION

The findings suggest that the self-report assessment for attention-related driving failures can predict older drivers' crash risks. Furthermore, the two-part approach of AFDQ provides an opportunity to do a more comprehensive investigation of the associations between attentional declines and crash risks among older drivers.

Deep Learning-Based Software Improves Clinicians' Detection Sensitivity of Aneurysms on Brain TOF-MRA

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The detection of cerebral aneurysms on MRA is a challenging task. Recent studies have used deep learning-based software for automated detection of aneurysms on MRA and have reported high performance. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incremental value of using deep learning-based software for the detection of aneurysms on MRA by 2 radiologists, a neurosurgeon, and a neurologist.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

TOF-MRA examinations of intracranial aneurysms were retrospectively extracted. Four physicians interpreted the MRA blindly. After a washout period, they interpreted MRA again using the software. Sensitivity and specificity per patient, sensitivity per lesion, and the number of false-positives per case were measured. Diagnostic performances, including subgroup analysis of lesions, were compared. Logistic regression with a generalized estimating equation was used.

RESULTS

A total of 332 patients were evaluated; 135 patients had positive findings with 169 lesions. With software assistance, patient-based sensitivity was statistically improved after the washout period (73.5% versus 86.5%, P < .001). The neurosurgeon and neurologist showed a significant increase in patient-based sensitivity with software assistance (74.8% versus 85.2%, P = .03, and 56.3% versus 84.4%, P < .001, respectively), while the number of false-positive cases did not increase significantly (23 versus 30, P = .20, and 22 versus 24, P = .75, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Software-aided reading showed significant incremental value in the sensitivity of clinicians in the detection of aneurysms on MRA without a significant increase in false-positive findings, especially for the neurosurgeon and neurologist. Software-aided reading showed equivocal value for the radiologist.

P–153 Comparison outcome of vitrified human embryos stored in vapor phase liquid nitrogen (LN2) and direct LN2

Study question

Is vapor cryopreserved LN2 storage beneficial for clinical outcomes of vitrified human embryos that are frozen compared to vitrified human embryos having direct contact with LN2.

Summary answer

There are no significant differences compared to clinical outcomes of human embryos stored in LN2 vapor and direct store in LN2.

What is known already

There has been concerned about potential cross-contamination and biohazard issues of embryos for long term storage using direct LN2. This study aimed to compare clinical outcomes of human embryos transfer between vapor phase and liquid LN2.

Study design, size, duration

The embryo has undergone vitrification for long term storage with vapor or direct contact in LN2. After the thawing of the embryo, we checked on the survival rates. We transferred only one or two embryos per patient and kept analyzing the implantation and pregnancy rates

Participants/materials, setting, methods

This retrospective study was carried out from January 2018 to December 2019 with 3272cycles 4713embryos; vitrified for long term storage in vapor phase or direct contact with LN2. We compared the clinical outcomes of frozen embryo transfer cycles using vitrified for long term storage in vapor phase and direct contact with LN2. Clinical outcomes monitored were embryo survival, subsequent implantation and pregnancy after single or double embryo transfer

Main results and the role of chance

A total of 4713 fertilized human embryos are vitrified and then stored in LN2 vapor (n = 2520 cycles) or direct contact LN2 (n = 752 cycles). The study showed that the blastocyst stored in vapor able to retain full development. Survival was 97.8% (vapor) and 97.6% (direct contact LN2), and the vapor storage of human embryos had no significant difference in survival rates after a long term storage. For single blastocyst transfer, pregnancy and implantation rates were 51.5%, 52.4% in vapor, 54.6%, 54.9% in direct LN2; respectively (p=NS). In double blastocyst transfer, the pregnancy and implantation rates were 61.8%, 42.0% in vapor and 64.7%, 44.5% in direct LN2; respectively (p=NS). There were also no significant differences between two groups.

Limitations, reasons for caution

The study showed that the blastocyst stored in vapor can retain full development. A vapor storage system thus is safe and effective for long term vapor storage of vitrified human embryos.Within the limits of this study, there was no detection of an adverse effect of vapor storage.

Wider implications of the findings: Vapor storage systems thus represent a useful alternative for safe and effective long-term storage of vitrified human embryos that can avoid cross contamination chances from having direct contact with LN2.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

P–370 RPL-protease A as a potential biomarker for predicting recurrent pregnancy loss

Study question

Could the reduction of RPL-protease A be involved in the dysfunctional trophoblast for resulting in recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL).

Summary answer

Low expression of RPL-protease A may result in RPL and low serum RPL-protease A level may be a potential biomarker for predicting RPL.

What is known already

The RPL-protease A is expressed and secreted by placenta. The RPL-protease A is involved in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia, and the serum RPL-protease A level is higher in the patients with pre-eclampsia than that of normal groups. In our previous study, we identified that the RPL-protease A mRNA level was lower in the villi of patients with RPL than that of normal groups.

Study design, size, duration

Using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, the RPL-protease A gene knockout BeWo cell (BeWo KO) line was established, and the wild type (BeWo WT) and BeWo KO cells were applied to investigate the roles of RPL-protease A in trophoblasts. The human serum RPL-protease A levels were investigated by Western blot analysis and ELISA kit.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

The cell-cell fusion, cell counting analysis, invasion and scratch wound assays, cell cycle analysis, and immunocytochemical analysis were used to investigate cellular functions of RPL-protease A in trophoblast. The sera were obtained from 32 normal pregnant women and 60 women with RPL. The Western blot analysis and ELISA were used for detection of serum RPL-protease A levels.

Main results and the role of chance

The β-hCG was detected in fused BeWo WT cells, while the BeWo KO cells cannot fuse and did not express the β-hCG. The ability of invasion was decreased, but the capacity of migration and proliferation was higher in BeWo KO cells than BeWo WT cells. Cell fusion related factor (β-hCG), and cell invasion related factors (MMP–2 and MMP–9) were highly expressed in BeWo WT cells, and cell related factor (FAK), and cell proliferation related factors (ERK, p38, JNK, MKK3, MKK6, Raf, and Ras) were highly expressed in BeWo KO cells. The Western blot analysis and ELISA indicate that the serum RPL-protease A level was decreased in patients with RPL compared to that of normal groups.

Limitations, reasons for caution

The results of this study have the limitation of RPL-protease A functions in vitro.

Wider implications of the findings: The cellular functions of RPL-protease A in trophoblasts were investigated to explain the pathogenesis of RPL, and low serum RPL-protease A level can be used for a potential biomarker predicting RPL.

Trial registration number

Not applicable

Molecular insights into the development of hepatic metastases in colorectal cancer: a metastasis prediction study

OBJECTIVE

Colorectal cancer is presently the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. In this study, we identified molecular differences between hepatic and non-hepatic metastases in colorectal cancer and evaluated their prognostic significance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We downloaded primary data from the NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GSE6988, GSE62321, GSE50760, and GSE28722). To identify the molecular differences, we used the Significance Analysis of Microarray method. We selected nine prognostic genes (SYTL2, PTPLAD1, CDS1, RNF138, PIGR, WDR78, MYO7B, TSPAN3, and ATP5F1) with hepatic metastasis prediction score in colorectal cancer (hereafter referred to as LASSO Score). We confirmed the prognostic significance of the LASSO Score by using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, multivariate analysis, the time-dependent area under the curve (AUC) of Uno's C-index, and the AUC of the receiver operating characteristic curve at 1-5 years.

RESULTS

Survival analysis revealed that a high LASSO Score is associated with a poor prognosis in colorectal cancer patients with hepatic metastases (p = 0). Analysis of C-indices and AUC values from the receiver operating characteristic curve further supported this prediction by the LASSO Score. Multivariate analysis confirmed the prognostic significance of the LASSO Score (p = 1.13e-06).

CONCLUSIONS

This study reveals the biological mechanisms underlying hepatic metastases in colorectal cancer and will help in developing targeted therapies for colorectal cancer.

The Cardiac Microenvironment Instructs Divergent Monocyte Fates and Functions in Myocarditis

Two types of monocytes, Ly6C^hi and Ly6C^lo, infiltrate the heart in murine experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM). We discovered a role for cardiac fibroblasts in facilitating monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation of both Ly6C^hi and Ly6C^lo cells, allowing these macrophages to perform divergent functions in myocarditis progression. During the acute phase of EAM, IL-17A is highly abundant. It signals through cardiac fibroblasts to attenuate efferocytosis of Ly6C^hi monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) and simultaneously prevents Ly6C^lo monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation. We demonstrated an inverse clinical correlation between heart IL-17A levels and efferocytic receptor expressions in humans with heart failure (HF). In the absence of IL-17A signaling, Ly6C^hi MDMs act as robust phagocytes and are less proinflammatory, whereas Ly6C^lo monocytes resume their differentiation into MHCII⁺ macrophages. We propose that MHCII⁺Ly6C^lo MDMs are associated with the reduction of cardiac fibrosis and prevention of the myocarditis sequalae.

Hou et al. show that cardiac fibroblasts facilitate infiltrating Ly6C^hi and Ly6C^lo monocytes to become macrophages. IL-17A trans-signaling through cardiac fibroblasts increases MerTK shedding and promotes a pro-inflammatory and pro-tissue remodeling gene expression profile in Ly6C^hi monocyte-derived macrophages. Paradoxically, IL-17A signaling through cardiac fibroblasts can substantially inhibit Ly6C^lo monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation.

US nativity and dietary acculturation impact the gut microbiome in a diverse US population

Little is known regarding the impact of immigrant acculturation on the gut microbiome. We characterized differences in the gut microbiome between racially/ethnically diverse US immigrant and US-born groups, and determined the impact of dietary acculturation on the microbiome. Stool samples were collected from 863 US residents, including US-born (315 White, 93 Black, 40 Hispanic) and foreign-born (105 Hispanic, 264 Korean) groups. We determined dietary acculturation from dissimilarities based on food frequency questionnaires, and used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to characterize the microbiome. Gut microbiome composition differed across study groups, with the largest difference between foreign-born Koreans and US-born Whites, and significant differences also observed between foreign-born and US-born Hispanics. Differences in sub-operational taxonomic unit (s-OTU) abundance between foreign-born and US-born groups tended to be distinct from differences between US-born groups. Bacteroides plebeius, a seaweed-degrading bacterium, was strongly enriched in foreign-born Koreans, while Prevotella copri and Bifidobacterium adolescentis were strongly enriched in foreign-born Koreans and Hispanics, compared with US-born Whites. Dietary acculturation in foreign-born participants was associated with specific s-OTUs, resembling abundance in US-born Whites; e.g., a Bacteroides plebeius s-OTU was depleted in highly diet-acculturated Koreans. In summary, we observed that US nativity is a determinant of the gut microbiome in a US resident population. Dietary acculturation may result in loss of native species in immigrants, though further research is necessary to explore whether acculturation-related microbiome alterations have consequences for immigrant health.

Abstract B12: Cross-sectional analysis of grain, gluten, and fiber intakes and gut microbiota in the Food and Microbiome Longitudinal Investigation (FAMiLI) Study

Whole grains are recommended as part of a healthy dietary pattern for the prevention of chronic diseases, including colorectal cancer. Greater whole grain consumption may beneficially alter gut microbiota, and it is unclear if gluten, a protein component of grains, is also associated with altered microbiota. To examine the association between grain, gluten, and fiber intake with gut microbiota, we analyzed data from the ongoing prospective Food and Microbiome Longitudinal Investigation Study. This cross-sectional analysis included 300 men and 501 women of White, Black, Hispanic, and Asian race/ethnicity who completed a 137-item semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Gluten intake was estimated using the protein content of grain products. Bacterial 16S rRNA genes from stool samples collected via RNAlater tubes were amplified, sequenced, and assigned to bacterial taxa. We examined associations of whole and refined grain, gluten, and dietary fiber intakes with gut microbiota diversity and composition using multivariable-adjusted linear regression models and permutational multivariate analysis of variance, respectively, and with microbial taxa abundance using analysis of composition of microbiomes (ANCOM). In this diverse study population, the highest quartiles of energy-adjusted refined grain and gluten intake, when compared to the lowest quartiles, were associated with lower Shannon diversity (P-trend=0.03 and P-trend=0.01, respectively), but no other associations with alpha- or beta-diversity measures were observed. The highest quartile of dietary fiber was not associated with alpha-diversity measures but was associated with shifts in overall gut microbial composition (P-trend=0.02). Whole grain intake was not statistically significantly associated with these microbiome parameters. However, the highest quartile of whole grain intake, compared to the lowest quartile, was associated with greater abundance of several gut taxa, including classes Erysipelotrichi (family Erysipelotrichaceae), Clostridia (genus Faecalibacterium and Lachnospira), and Bacteroidia (Bacteroides plebeius). Higher whole grain intake was also associated with lower abundance of classes Bacteroidia (family Rikenellaceae and Bacteroides uniformis) and Clostridia (genus Oscillospira and Ruminococcus). Similarly, the highest quartile of dietary fiber intake was associated with greater abundance of classes Erysipelotrichi (family Erysipelotrichaceae) and Clostridia (genus Lachnospira) and lower abundance of class Bacteroidia (family Rikenellaceae). Higher intakes of refined grain and gluten were not statistically significantly associated with altered abundance of gut taxa. Though this study is cross-sectional, identification of gut microbes associated with higher intakes of whole grain and fiber may expand our understanding of how these nutritional factors lower risk for colorectal cancer.

Citation Format: Caroline Y. Um, Brandilyn A. Peters, Emilia N. Cobbs, Hee Sun Choi, Dia B. Beggs, Richard B. Hayes, Marjorie L. McCullough, Susan M. Gapstur, Jiyoung Ahn. Cross-sectional analysis of grain, gluten, and fiber intakes and gut microbiota in the Food and Microbiome Longitudinal Investigation (FAMiLI) Study [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference on the Microbiome, Viruses, and Cancer; 2020 Feb 21-24; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(8 Suppl):Abstract nr B12.

Correction: Lung epithelial cell-derived extracellular vesicles activate macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses via ROCK1 pathway

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.

Effect of dietary melamine concentrations on growth performance, excreta characteristics, plasma measurements, and melamine residue in the tissue of male and female broiler chickens

The objectives of the current experiment were to investigate the effect of dietary melamine concentrations on growth performance, excreta characteristics, plasma measurements, and melamine residue in the tissue of male and female broiler chickens. Finally, the safe levels of melamine in broiler diets were determined based on BW gain (BWG) and melamine residue in the breast meat. A total of 1,008 1-d-old Ross 308 male and female broiler chickens were allotted to 1 of 7 dietary treatments within each sex in a completely randomized design. There were 6 replicates per treatment and each replicate consisted of 12 birds. Dietary melamine concentrations were set to 0; 250; 500; 750; 1,000; 5,000; or 10,000 mg/kg by adding a purified form of melamine. Diets were provided to birds on ad libitum basis for 35 d. Results indicated that no significant interaction between sex and dietary melamine concentrations was observed for all measurements. The BW, BWG, and feed intake for birds fed diets containing 10,000 mg/kg melamine were less (P < 0.05) than for those fed other diets. Melamine residues in the kidney and breast for birds fed diets containing 10,000 mg/kg melamine were greater (P < 0.05) than for birds fed other diets. The toxic level of dietary melamine based on BWG was determined by the one-slope broken-line analysis. The resulting equation was Y = 1,851 - 0.0404 × (X - 4,292), which indicated that a greater than 4,292 mg/kg melamine in diets was toxic to broiler chickens. The safe level of dietary melamine to limit melamine residue in the broiler breast was analyzed using the linear regression, which indicated that the safe level of melamine in broiler diets was 814 mg/kg. In conclusion, less than 814 mg/kg melamine in broiler diets should be maintained to satisfy human food safety regulations for melamine residue in the breast meat of broiler chickens.

Image Quality of Low-Dose Cerebral Angiography and Effectiveness of Clinical Implementation on Diagnostic and Neurointerventional Procedures for Intracranial Aneurysms

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Awareness of the potential for exposure to high doses of radiation from interventional radiologic procedures has increased. The purpose of this study was to evaluate image quality and dose reduction of low-dose cerebral angiography during diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for intracranial aneurysms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 1137 prospectively collected patients between January 2012 and June 2014 was performed. Beginning in April 2013, a dose-reduction strategy was implemented. Subjective image-quality assessment of 506 standard and 540 low-dose cerebral angiography images was performed by 2 neuroradiologists using a 5-point scale and was tested using noninferiority statistics. Radiation dose-area product and air kerma of 1046 diagnostic and 317 therapeutic procedures for intracranial aneurysms were analyzed and compared between groups before (group 1) and after (group 2) clinical implementation of a dose-reduction strategy.

RESULTS

The image quality of the low-dose cerebral angiography was not inferior on the basis of results from the 2 readers. For diagnostic cerebral angiography, the mean dose-area product and air kerma were 140.8 Gy×cm² and 1.0 Gy, respectively, in group 1 and 82.0 Gy×cm² and 0.6 Gy in group 2 (P < .001, P < .001). For the neurointerventional procedure, the mean dose-area product and air kerma were 246.0 Gy×cm² and 3.7 Gy, respectively, in group 1 and 169.8 Gy×cm² and 3.3 Gy in group 2 (P < .001, P = .291).

CONCLUSIONS

With low-dose cerebral angiography, image quality was maintained, and implementation of dose-reduction strategies reduced radiation doses in patients undergoing diagnostic and neurointerventional procedures for intracranial aneurysms.

Non-cytotoxic Cardiac Innate Lymphoid Cells Are a Resident and Quiescent Type 2-Commited Population

Innate lymphoid cells (ILC) are a subset of leukocytes with lymphoid properties that lack antigen specific receptors. They can be stimulated by and exert their effect via specific cytokine axes, whereas Natural Killers (NK) cells are the only known cytotoxic member of this family. ILCs are considered key in linking the innate and adaptive response in physiologic and pathologic environments. In this study, we investigated the properties of non-cytotoxic cardiac ILCs in physiologic, inflammatory, and ischemic conditions. We found that in healthy humans and mice, non-cytotoxic cardiac ILCs are predominantly a type 2-committed population with progenitor-like features, such as an absence of type-specific immunophenotype, intermediate GATA3 expression, and capacity to transiently express Pro-myelocytic Leukemia Zinc Finger protein (PLZF) upon activation. During myocarditis and ischemia, in both human and mice, cardiac ILCs differentiated into conventional ILC2s. We found that cardiac ILCs lack IL-25 receptor and cannot become inflammatory ILC2s. We found a strong correlation between IL-33 production in the heart and the ability of cardiac ILCs to become conventional ILC2s. The main producer of IL-33 was a subset of CD29+Sca-1+ cardiac fibroblasts. ILC2 expansion and fibroblast-derived IL-33 production were significantly increased in the heart in mouse models of infarction and myocarditis. Despite its progenitor-like status in healthy hearts, cardiac ILCs were unable to become ILC1 or ILC3 in vivo and in vitro. Using adoptive transfer and parabiosis, we demonstrated that the heart, unlike other organs such as lung, cannot be infiltrated by circulating ILCs in adulthood even during cardiac inflammation or ischemia. Thus, the ILC2s present during inflammatory conditions are derived from the heart-resident and quiescent steady-state population. Non-cytotoxic cardiac ILCs are a resident population of ILC2-commited cells, with undifferentiated progenitor-like features in steady-state conditions and an ability to expand and develop pro-inflammatory type 2 features during inflammation or ischemia.

Effect of stocking density and sex on growth performance, meat quality, and intestinal barrier function in broiler chickens

The objective of the current experiment was to investigate the effect of stocking density and sex on growth performance, meat quality, and intestinal barrier function in broiler chickens. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized design with a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement consisting of sex and four different stocking densities in battery cages. A total of 540 1-d-old Ross 308 broiler chickens were allotted to one of eight treatments with five replicates. Within each sex, birds were raised at four different stocking densities of 15.2, 20.2, 25.3, or 30.4 birds/m2 from 1 to 28 d of age. Different stocking densities were achieved by raising a different number of birds per battery cage with identical floor size (0.76 m × 0.78 m). At the end of the experiment, two birds per replicate were euthanized by CO2 asphyxiation to collect tissue samples for further analyses. Results indicated that no interactions between sex and stocking density were observed for all measurements except for serum lipopolysaccharide (LPS) concentrations. Increasing stocking density decreased (linear, P < 0.01) body weight gain and feed intake, but had no negative effects on meat quality. Trans-epithelial electrical resistance values, a measure of intestinal permeability, were decreased (linear, P < 0.01) with increasing stocking density, regardless of sex. Accordingly, serum LPS concentrations were increased (linear, P < 0.01) with increasing stocking density. However, increasing stocking density increased serum LPS concentrations in male broiler chickens, but had no effects on female broiler chickens, showing an interaction (P < 0.01). The expression of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and junctional adhesion molecule B (JAM-2) was decreased (linear, P < 0.05) with increasing stocking density. In conclusion, increasing stocking density decreases broiler performance regardless of sex and this negative effect is likely associated with decreased intestinal barrier function.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a risk factor for cancer: a nationwide population-based study in Korea

OBJECTIVE

Specific differences in cancer risk have been observed between systemic lupus erythematosus patients and the general population. Although meta-analyses have estimated cancer incidence in systemic lupus erythematosus patients, results have been inconclusive. Hence, we aimed to assess malignancy risk in systemic lupus erythematosus patients, compared to the risk in the general population.

METHODS

Systemic lupus erythematosus patients ( n = 21,016; mean age 41.67 ± 13.14 years; female 90.22%) were selected from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database between 2008 and 2014. Age- and sex-matched controls were randomly sampled in a 5:1 ratio ( n = 105,080).

RESULTS

During the 7 years of follow up, malignancy was detected in 763 (3.63%) systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 2667 (2.54%) controls. Systemic lupus erythematosus patients had a higher risk of malignancy than controls (odds ratio 1.44; 95% confidence interval 1.327-1.559), after multivariate adjustment. Systemic lupus erythematosus patients had a higher odds ratio for developing cervical, thyroid, ovarian, and oral cancer, as well as lymphoma, leukemia, and multiple myeloma than controls. Based on subgroup analysis, male systemic lupus erythematosus patients and patients younger than 40 years showed the highest lymphoma risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Systemic lupus erythematosus might be an independent risk factor for cancer. Therefore, the importance of cancer screening programs should be emphasized in systemic lupus erythematosus patients. Our study is the first large nationwide cohort study for evaluating the risk of cancer in systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease: a nationwide, population-based study in Korea

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence and clinical significance of cardiovascular disease in systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

METHODS

We included systemic lupus erythematosus patients ( n = 18,575) without previous cardiovascular disease and age- and sex-matched individuals without systemic lupus erythematosus (controls; n = 92,875) from the Korean National Health Insurance Service database (2008-2014). Both cohorts were followed up for incident cardiovascular disease and death until 2015.

RESULTS

During follow up, myocardial infarction occurred in 203 systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 325 controls (incidence rate: 1.76 and 0.56 per 1000 person-years, respectively), stroke occurred in 289 patients and 403 controls (incidence rate: 2.51 and 0.70 per 1000 person-years, respectively), heart failure occurred in 358 patients and 354 controls (incidence rate 3.11 and 0.61 per 1000 person-years, respectively), and death occurred in 744 patients and 948 controls (incidence rate 6.54 and 1.64 per 1000 person-years, respectively). Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus had higher risks for myocardial infarction (hazard ratio: 2.74, 95% confidence interval: 2.28-3.37), stroke (hazard ratio: 3.31, 95% confidence interval: 2.84-3.86), heart failure (hazard ratio: 4.60, 95% confidence interval: 3.96-5.35), and cardiac death (hazard ratio: 3.98, 95% confidence interval: 3.61-4.39).

CONCLUSIONS

Here, systemic lupus erythematosus was an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, thus cardiac assessment and management are critical in systemic lupus erythematosus patients.

Implications of CaCl2 application to plants in LID facilities

Low impact development (LID) technologies mimic the natural water cycle through the physico-chemical and biological interactions of plants, filter media and soil, and microorganisms, thereby reducing the release of pollutants. In LID facilities, plants carry out photosynthesis, facilitate microbial growth, and uptake pollutants contained in stormwater runoff. However, de-icers (CaCl₂) used to melt snow during winter slow the growth of plants and even increase plant mortality. In addition, de-icers change the soil structure, causing changes in soil content and affecting the growth of plants and microorganisms. Therefore, this study examined the effects of CaCl₂ on the resistance of plants, the removal efficiency of non-point source pollutants, and water circulation. The mortality rate of the tree and shrubs caused by CaCl₂ was found to be in the order of Rhododendron indicum > Spiraea prunifolia var. simpliciflora > Metasequoia glyptostroboides. For herbaceous plants, mortality rate was in the order of Pratia pedunculata > Aquilegia japonica > Tagetes erecta > Sedum makinoi aurea > Hosta longipes > Dianthus chinensis > Acorus gramineus > Liriope platyphylla. In addition, it was found that the amount of chlorophyll decreases with high concentrations of CaCl₂. The findings of this research will be useful for plant selection considering CaCl₂ concentrations applied to paved areas during the winter.

The role of innate lymphoid cells in the heart and cardiac inflammation

Studies have shown the diverse role of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in mucosal organs, however, the role of ILCs in the heart has not been studied. The aim of the work was to examine the role of group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) in the heart and inflammatory heart diseases. To study the role of ILCs in the heart, we used a pericarditis model where IL-33 treatment induces pericarditis in mice. In this model, diastolic dysfunction was observed in the heart of IL-33-treated mice and eosinophils were heavily infiltrated into the heart. We found that the number of ILC2s was increased in the heart after IL-33 administration. We hypothesized that IL-33 induces cardiac ILC2s to produce IL-5 and IL-13, which drives pericarditis development. To examine whether ILCs are required for pericarditis development, we treated WT, Rag2−/− and Rag2−/−γc−/− mice with IL-33. Rag2−/−γc−/− mice which are deficient in all lymphoid cells including ILCs were completely protected from developing pericarditis, while WT and Rag2−/− mice developed pericarditis, indicating the adaptive immunity is not required for the development of IL-33-induced pericarditis. This data suggests that ILCs might play a pathogenic role in the heart. To determine the function of ILC2s, we analyzed cytokine production by ILC2s in the heart. Cardiac ILC2s were a major producer of IL-5 and IL-13. With anti-IL-5 treatment, the number of eosinophils in the heart was reduced, which prevented the heart from developing pericarditis. IL-13−/− mice showed less severe pericarditis upon IL-33 treatment than WT mice. Collectively, our data suggest that ILCs play a critical role in pericarditis, and could provide insight into novel strategies for treating this disease.

Regulation of autoimmune myocarditis by host responses to the microbiome

The extensive, diverse communities that constitute the microbiome are increasingly appreciated as important regulators of human health and disease through inflammatory, immune, and metabolic pathways. We sought to elucidate pathways by which microbiota contribute to inflammatory, autoimmune cardiac disease. We employed an animal model of experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM), which results in inflammatory and autoimmune pathophysiology and subsequent maladaptive cardiac remodeling and heart failure. Antibiotic dysbiosis protected mice from EAM and fibrotic cardiac dysfunction. Additionally, mice derived from different sources with different microbiome colonization profiles demonstrated variable susceptibility to disease. Unexpectedly, it did not track with segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB)-driven Th17 programming of CD4+ T cells in the steady-state gut. Instead, we found disease susceptibility to track with presence of type 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s). Ablating ILCs by antibody depletion or genetic tools in adoptive transfer variants of the EAM model demonstrated that ILCs and microbiome profiles contributed to the induction of CCL20/CCR6-mediated inflammatory chemotaxis to the diseased heart. From these data, we conclude that sensing of the microbiome by ILCs is an important checkpoint in the development of inflammatory cardiac disease processes through their ability to elicit cardiotropic chemotaxis.

The role of innate lymphoid cells in the cardiac inflammation

To investigate the role of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in the heart, we have established a pericarditis model in which mice develop pericarditis upon IL-33 injections. Studies have shown the role of group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) mostly in mucosal organs such as lung and gut, however, the role of ILC2s in the heart has been overlooked. We found that the number of ILC2s increases in the heart after IL-33 treatment. The aim of this work is to examine the role of ILC2s in inflammatory heart disease using the IL-33-induced pericarditis model. We hypothesize that IL-33 induces cardiac resident ILCs to become activated ILC2s to produce large amounts of IL-5 and IL-13, driving the development of pericarditis. To determine whether ILCs are required for pericarditis development, we compared WT mice to Rag2−/− mice and to Rag2−/−γc−/− mice which lack all of lymphoid cells including ILCs. Whereas Rag2−/− mice developed pericarditis, Rag2−/−γc−/− mice were completely protected. This indicates that the adaptive immune response is not required for the development of IL-33-induced pericarditis, but ILCs may play a pathogenic role. We assessed cytokine production by ILC2s in pericarditis to determine the function of ILC2s in the heart. Cardiac ILC2s were a major source of IL-5 and IL-13. The number of eosinophils in the heart was significantly reduced by anti-IL-5 treatment, which prevented the development of pericarditis. In addition, IL-13−/− mice developed less severe pericarditis compared to WT mice. These data suggest that ILCs play a critical role in inflammatory heart diseases. The pathogenic mechanism of ILC2s in the heart could provide insight into novel therapeutic strategies for treating cardiac inflammation including pericarditis.

The folding competence of HIV-1 Tat mediated by interaction with TAR RNA

The trans-activator Tat protein of HIV-1 belongs to the large family of intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), and is known to recruit various host proteins for the transactivation of viral RNA synthesis. Tat protein interacts with the transactivator response RNA (TAR RNA), exhibiting RNA chaperone activities for structural rearrangement of interacting RNAs. Here, considering that Tat-TAR RNA interaction is mutually cooperative, we examined the potential role of TAR RNA as Chaperna - RNA that provides chaperone function to proteins - for the folding of HIV-1 Tat. Using EGFP fusion as an indirect indicator for folding status, we monitored Tat-EGFP folding in HeLa cells via time-lapse fluorescence microscopy. The live cell imaging showed that the rate and the extent of folding of Tat-EGFP were stimulated by TAR RNA. The purified Tat-EGFP was denatured and the fluorescence was monitored in vitro under renaturation condition. The fluorescence was significantly increased by TAR RNA, and the mutations in TAR RNA that affected the interaction with Tat protein failed to promote Tat refolding. The results suggest that TAR RNA stabilizes Tat as unfolded, but prevents it from misfolding, and maintaining its folding competence for interaction with multiple host factors toward its transactivation. The Chaperna function of virally encoded RNA in establishing proteome link at the viral-host interface provides new insights to as yet largely unexplored RNA mediated protein folding in normal and dysregulated cellular metabolism.

Strong familial association of bone mineral density between parents and offspring: KNHANES 2008-2011

Bone mineral density (BMD) of offspring was significantly associated with their parents' BMD. Parental BMD Z-score ≤-1 was a significant predictor for BMD Z-score ≤-1 in their offspring. Peak bone mass acquisition during early adulthood is more substantially influenced by genetic factors rather than lifestyle or environmental factors.

INTRODUCTION

A person's BMD is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. Family history of osteoporosis or fragility fracture is a well-known risk factor for low bone mass or fracture. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the familial association of BMD between parents and offspring in Korean population.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study based on the data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (KNHANES) conducted from 2008 to 2011. A total of 5947 subjects (3135 parents and 2812 offspring) were included.

RESULTS

In age-adjusted partial correlation analyses, all BMD values acquired from the lumbar spine, femur neck, total hip, and whole body showed significant associations between parents and offspring. Among these associations, whole-body BMD showed the strongest relationship between offspring and parents. The narrow-sense heritability of BMD ranged from 0.203 to 0.542 in male offspring and from 0.396 to 0.689 in female offspring. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that offspring's BMD was independently associated with BMD of both parents after adjusting for covariates. Lifestyle or environmental factors including dietary calcium intake, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D level, regular exercise, current smoking, and alcohol intake showed only moderate or no associations with BMD. In multiple logistic regression analyses in offspring aged 19-25 years, the son's risk of having BMD Z-score ≤-1 was associated with both parents' BMD Z-score ≤-1, while the daughter's risk was only associated with maternal BMD Z-score ≤-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings confirm the strong familial association of BMD between parents and offspring in Korean population and suggest that peak bone mass acquisition during early adulthood is more substantially influenced by genetic factors rather than lifestyle or environmental factors.

A prospective study on symptom generation according to spicy food intake and TRPV1 genotypes in functional dyspepsia patients

BACKGROUND

Capsaicin is an ingredient of red peppers that binds to transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1), and Koreans eat more capsaicin-rich food than do Japanese. This study aimed to compare symptom generation according to TRPV1 genotypes and the intake of spicy foods.

METHODS

Consecutive functional dyspepsia (FD) patients who were evaluated at Konkuk University Medical Centre (Korea) and Keio University Hospital (Japan) were included. Questionnaires on spicy food intake, patient assessment of gastrointestinal symptoms (PAGI-SYM), patient assessment of quality of life, and hospital anxiety and depression scale were provided. Blood was sampled for the detection of TRPV1 polymorphisms, and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was performed with biopsies.

KEY RESULTS

Of 121 included subjects, 35 and 28 carried the TRPV1 CC and GG genotypes, respectively, with the prevalence rates not differing between Japan and Korea. The prevalence of FD subtypes did not differ with the spicy food intake, TRPV1 genotypes, or Helicobacter pylori infection. Neither TRPV1 polymorphisms nor H. pylori infections were related to scores on the PAGI-SYM questionnaires, but spicy food intake was positively correlated with the scores for stomach fullness (p = 0.001) and retching (p = 0.001). Using the linear regression analysis, stomach fullness was associated with spicy food intake (p = 0.007), whereas retching was related to younger age (p < 0.001) and female gender (p = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES

Upper gastrointestinal symptoms are more common in subjects with a higher consumption of spicy foods, younger age and female gender, regardless of TRPV1 genotypes and the H. pylori infection status. Capsaicin-rich foods may induce stomach fullness.

Role of peripheral sigma-1 receptors in ischaemic pain: Potential interactions with ASIC and P2X receptors

BACKGROUND

The role of peripheral sigma-1 receptors (Sig-1Rs) in normal nociception and in pathologically induced pain conditions has not been thoroughly investigated. Since there is mounting evidence that Sig-1Rs modulate ischaemia-induced pathological conditions, we investigated the role of Sig-1Rs in ischaemia-induced mechanical allodynia (MA) and addressed their possible interaction with acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) and P2X receptors at the ischaemic site.

METHODS

We used a rodent model of hindlimb thrombus-induced ischaemic pain (TIIP) to investigate their role. Western blot was performed to observe changes in Sig-1R expression in peripheral nervous tissues. MA was measured after intraplantar (i.pl.) injections of antagonists for the Sig-1, ASIC and P2X receptors in TIIP rats or agonists of each receptor in naïve rats.

RESULTS

Sig-1R expression significantly increased in skin, sciatic nerve and dorsal root ganglia at 3 days post-TIIP surgery. I.pl. injections of the Sig-1R antagonist, BD-1047 on post-operative days 0-3 significantly attenuated the development of MA during the induction phase, but had no effect on MA when given during the maintenance phase (days 3-6 post-surgery). BD-1047 synergistically increased amiloride (an ASICs blocker)- and TNP-ATP (a P2X antagonist)-induced analgesic effects in TIIP rats. In naïve rats, i.pl. injection of Sig-1R agonist PRE-084 alone did not produce MA; but it did induce MA when co-administered with either an acidic pH solution or a sub-effective dose of αβmeATP.

CONCLUSION

Peripheral Sig-1Rs contribute to the induction of ischaemia-induced MA via facilitation of ASICs and P2X receptors. Thus, peripheral Sig-1Rs represent a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of ischaemic pain.

The CONTIN algorithm and its application to determine the size distribution of microgel suspensions

We review a powerful regularization method, known as CONTIN, for obtaining the size distribution of colloidal suspensions from dynamic light scattering data. We show that together with the so-called L-curve criterion for selecting the optimal regularization parameter, the method correctly describes the average size and size distribution of microgel suspensions independently characterized using small-angle neutron scattering. In contrast, we find that when using the default regularization process, where the regularizer is selected via the "probability to reject" method, the results are not as satisfactory.

Association of heart rate with albuminuria in a general adult population: the 2011 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

BACKGROUND

Albuminuria is associated with increased risk of multiple adverse health outcomes, such as progressive renal failure, cardiovascular disease and death. However, in the general population, it is uncertain whether albuminuria is associated with elevated heart rate, which is an independent and powerful risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

AIM

To investigate whether an elevated heart rate is an independent factor associated with albuminuria in the general adult population of Korea.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis was carried out on 5198 Korean adults aged 19 years or older who participated in the fifth (2011) Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES V-2).

RESULTS

The prevalence of albuminuria showed an increasing trend throughout the whole range of heart rate, even after adjusting for confounders (P = 0.002). The increment was most profound at the heart rate of 70-75 and >76 beats per minute (b.p.m.; P = 0.011). In multiple logistic regression analysis, age (P < 0.001), hypertension (P < 0.001), diabetes (P < 0.001), hypertriglyceridaemia (P = 0.025), estimated glomerular filtration rate (P = 0.028) and heart rate (P = 0.023) were independently associated with the presence of albuminuria in Korean adults. Compared with participants with heart rate ≤ 64 b.p.m., the odds ratio (95% CI) for albuminuria was 1.50 (1.15-1.96) for those with heart rate ≥ 76 b.p.m.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of albuminuria is independently associated with heart rate in the general adult population of Korea.

Artefacts at a glance: differentiating features of artefactual stenosis from true stenosis at the genu of the petrous internal carotid artery on TOF MRA

AIM

To investigate the distinguishing features of artefactual stenosis from true stenosis at the genu of the petrous internal carotid artery (ICA) on time of flight (TOF) magnetic resonance angiography (MRA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Both TOF MRA and digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were performed in 65 patients with 74 vessels who demonstrated artefactual stenosis in 43 patients with 50 vessels and true stenosis in 22 patients with 24 vessels. The following findings of the signal loss were compared between the two groups: (1) margin, (2) darkness, (3) the presence of bilaterality, (4) the presence of tandem arterial stenosis, (5) the location of the epicentre, and (6) length.

RESULTS

In five out of the six evaluated items, statistically significant differences were present between the two groups (p<0.00 in all five items). Artefactual stenosis more frequently showed signal loss with ill-defined margins (47/50), less darkness compared to the background darkness (46/50), the absence of tandem arterial stenosis (35/50), epicentre at the genu (34/50), and shorter length (2.57 ± 0.68 mm). No significant difference was noted in the presence of bilaterality of signal loss between the two groups (p=0.706).

CONCLUSION

Several MRA features can be useful for suggesting artefactual stenosis rather than true stenosis at the genu of the petrous ICA on TOF MRA.

Lung epithelial cell-derived extracellular vesicles activate macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses via ROCK1 pathway

Despite decades of research, the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) remains poorly understood, thus impeding the development of effective treatment. Diffuse alveolar damage (DAD) and lung epithelial cell death are prominent features of ARDS. Lung epithelial cells are the first line of defense after inhaled stimuli, such as in the case of hyperoxia. We hypothesized that lung epithelial cells release 'messenger' or signaling molecules to adjacent or distant macrophages, thereby initiating or propagating inflammatory responses after noxious insult. We found that, after hyperoxia, a large amount of extracellular vesicles (EVs) were generated and released into bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). These hyperoxia-induced EVs were mainly derived from live lung epithelial cells as the result of hyperoxia-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. These EVs were remarkably different from epithelial 'apoptotic bodies', as reflected by the significantly smaller size and differentially expressed protein markers. These EVs fall mainly in the size range of the exosomes and smaller microvesicles (MVs) (50-120 nm). The commonly featured protein markers of apoptotic bodies were not found in these EVs. Treating alveolar macrophages with hyperoxia-induced, epithelial cell-derived EVs led to an increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines and macrophage inflammatory protein 2 (MIP-2). Robustly increased macrophage and neutrophil influx was found in the lung tissue of the mice intranasally treated with hyperoxia-induced EVs. It was determined that EV-encapsulated caspase-3 was largely responsible for the alveolar macrophage activation via the ROCK1 pathway. Caspase-3-deficient EVs induced less cytokine/MIP-2 release, reduced cell counts in BALF, less neutrophil infiltration and less inflammation in lung parenchyma, both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, the serum circulating EVs were increased and mainly derived from lung epithelial cells after hyperoxia exposure. These circulating EVs also activated systemic macrophages other than the alveolar ones. Collectively, the results show that hyperoxia-induced, lung epithelial cell-derived and caspase-3 enriched EVs activate macrophages and mediate the inflammatory lung responses involved in lung injury.

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 promotes epithelial cell transformation and breast tumourigenesis via induction of PIN1 gene expression

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) is an aminopeptidase that is widely expressed in different cell types. Recent studies suggested that DPP4 plays an important role in tumour progression in several human malignancies. Here we have examined the mechanisms by which up-regulation of DPP4 expression causes epithelial transformation and mammary tumourigenesis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Expression of DPP4 and the peptidylprolyl cis/trans isomerase, NIMA-interacting 1 (PIN1), and the cytotoxic effects of combined treatment with sitagliptin and juglone were investigated by immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, real-time PCR, TUNEL and soft agar assays, using MCF7 cells. The effects of sitagliptin on tumour development in vivo were studied in the syngeneic 4T1 metastatic breast cancer model.

KEY RESULTS

Activity of the transcription factor E2F1 induced by EGF was enhanced by DPP4, thus increasing PIN1 expression. Furthermore, DPP4 enhanced MEK/ERK and JNK/c-Jun signalling induced by EGF, inducing AP-1 activity and epithelial cell transformation. In contrast, DPP4 silencing or DPP4 inhibition in MCF7 cells inhibited PIN1 expression via E2F1 activity induced by EGF, decreasing colony formation and inducing DNA fragmentation. In the syngeneic 4T1 metastatic breast cancer model, DPP4 overexpression increased tumour development, whereas treatment with sitagliptin and/or juglone suppressed it. Consistent with these observations, DPP4 levels were positively correlated with PIN1 expression in human breast cancer.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

DPP4 promoted EGF-induced epithelial cell transformation and mammary tumourigenesis via induction of PIN1 expression, suggesting that sitagliptin targeting of DPP4 could be a treatment strategy in patients with breast cancer.

Interleukin-33/ST2 axis promotes epithelial cell transformation and breast tumorigenesis via upregulation of COT activity

Cytokines of the interleukin-1 (IL-1) family, such as IL-1α/β and IL-18, have pleiotropic activities in innate and adaptive immune responses in host defense and diseases. Insight into their biological functions helped develop novel therapeutic approaches to treat human inflammatory diseases. IL-33 is an important member of the IL-1 family of cytokines and is a ligand of the ST2 receptor, a member of the IL-1 receptor family. However, the role of the IL-33/ST2 axis in tumor growth and metastasis of breast cancer remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that IL-33 is a critical tumor promoter during epithelial cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in the breast. IL-33 dose- and time-dependently increased Cancer Osaka Thyroid (COT) phosphorylation via ST2-COT interaction in normal epithelial and breast cancer cells. The IL-33/ST2/COT cascade induced the activation of the MEK-ERK (MEK-extracellular signal-regulated kinase), JNK-cJun (cJun N-terminal kinase-cJun) and STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) signaling pathways, followed by increased AP-1 and stat3 transcriptional activity. When small interfering RNAs of ST2 and COT were introduced into cells, IL-33-induced AP-1 and stat3 activity were significantly decreased, unlike that in the control cells. The inhibition of COT activity resulted in decreased IL-33-induced epithelial cell transformation, and knockdown of IL-33, ST2 and COT in breast cancer cells attenuated tumorigenicity of breast cancer cells. Consistent with these observations, ST2 levels were positively correlated with COT expression in human breast cancer. These findings provide a novel perspective on the role of the IL-33/ST2/COT signaling pathway in supporting cancer-associated inflammation in the tumor microenvironment. Therapeutic approaches that target this pathway may, therefore, effectively inhibit carcinogenesis in the breast.

Interleukin-33/ST2 axis promotes epithelial cell transformation and breast tumorigenesis via upregulation of COT activity

Cytokines of the interleukin-1 (IL-1) family, such as IL-1α/β and IL-18, have pleiotropic activities in innate and adaptive immune responses in host defense and diseases. Insight into their biological functions helped develop novel therapeutic approaches to treat human inflammatory diseases. IL-33 is an important member of the IL-1 family of cytokines and is a ligand of the ST2 receptor, a member of the IL-1 receptor family. However, the role of the IL-33/ST2 axis in tumor growth and metastasis of breast cancer remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that IL-33 is a critical tumor promoter during epithelial cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in the breast. IL-33 dose- and time-dependently increased Cancer Osaka Thyroid (COT) phosphorylation via ST2-COT interaction in normal epithelial and breast cancer cells. The IL-33/ST2/COT cascade induced the activation of the MEK-ERK (MEK-extracellular signal-regulated kinase), JNK-cJun (cJun N-terminal kinase-cJun) and STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) signaling pathways, followed by increased AP-1 and stat3 transcriptional activity. When small interfering RNAs of ST2 and COT were introduced into cells, IL-33-induced AP-1 and stat3 activity were significantly decreased, unlike that in the control cells. The inhibition of COT activity resulted in decreased IL-33-induced epithelial cell transformation, and knockdown of IL-33, ST2 and COT in breast cancer cells attenuated tumorigenicity of breast cancer cells. Consistent with these observations, ST2 levels were positively correlated with COT expression in human breast cancer. These findings provide a novel perspective on the role of the IL-33/ST2/COT signaling pathway in supporting cancer-associated inflammation in the tumor microenvironment. Therapeutic approaches that target this pathway may, therefore, effectively inhibit carcinogenesis in the breast.

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 promotes epithelial cell transformation and breast tumourigenesis via induction of PIN1 gene expression

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) is an aminopeptidase that is widely expressed in different cell types. Recent studies suggested that DPP4 plays an important role in tumour progression in several human malignancies. Here we have examined the mechanisms by which up-regulation of DPP4 expression causes epithelial transformation and mammary tumourigenesis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Expression of DPP4 and the peptidylprolyl cis/trans isomerase, NIMA-interacting 1 (PIN1), and the cytotoxic effects of combined treatment with sitagliptin and juglone were investigated by immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, real-time PCR, TUNEL and soft agar assays, using MCF7 cells. The effects of sitagliptin on tumour development in vivo were studied in the syngeneic 4T1 metastatic breast cancer model.

KEY RESULTS

Activity of the transcription factor E2F1 induced by EGF was enhanced by DPP4, thus increasing PIN1 expression. Furthermore, DPP4 enhanced MEK/ERK and JNK/c-Jun signalling induced by EGF, inducing AP-1 activity and epithelial cell transformation. In contrast, DPP4 silencing or DPP4 inhibition in MCF7 cells inhibited PIN1 expression via E2F1 activity induced by EGF, decreasing colony formation and inducing DNA fragmentation. In the syngeneic 4T1 metastatic breast cancer model, DPP4 overexpression increased tumour development, whereas treatment with sitagliptin and/or juglone suppressed it. Consistent with these observations, DPP4 levels were positively correlated with PIN1 expression in human breast cancer.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

DPP4 promoted EGF-induced epithelial cell transformation and mammary tumourigenesis via induction of PIN1 expression, suggesting that sitagliptin targeting of DPP4 could be a treatment strategy in patients with breast cancer.

Associations between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and bone mineral density and proximal femur geometry in Koreans: the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) 2008-2009

The association between 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels and bone mineral density (BMD) and proximal femur bone geometry was examined in the Korean population. A positive relationship between skeletal health and 25(OH)D levels was observed. However, there were no significant differences in skeletal health between the groups with 25(OH)D level of 50-75 nmol/L and greater than 75 nmol/L.

INTRODUCTION

Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium and phosphate homeostasis and normal mineralization of bone. However, the optimal level of vitamin D for skeletal health has not been clearly established. We analyzed the associations between serum 25(OH)D and BMD and proximal femur bone geometry and determined the optimal 25(OH)D level.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study of 10,062 participants (20-95 years, 4,455 men, 5,607 women) in the Fourth Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (KNHANES IV) conducted from 2008 to 2009. Participants were divided into groups according to 25(OH)D level (<25, 25-50, 50-75, and ≥75 nmol/L). BMD and proximal femur geometric indices were measured.

RESULTS

The group with 25(OH)D levels of 50-75 nmol/L had greater bone density values, with the exception of the lumbar spine, and also had greater femur neck cortical thickness, cross-sectional area, and cross-sectional moment of inertia, as well as a lesser buckling ratio than the groups with 25(OH)D level of 25-50 nmol/L and less than 25 nmol/L. However, there were no significant differences in BMD and proximal femur geometry properties between the groups with 50-75 nmol/L and greater than 75 nmol/L of 25(OH)D.

CONCLUSION

The skeletal outcomes, including BMD and proximal femur geometric indices observed in this study, suggest that serum 25(OH)D levels of 50 to <75 nmol/L are optimal for skeletal health.

σ1 receptors activate astrocytes via p38 MAPK phosphorylation leading to the development of mechanical allodynia in a mouse model of neuropathic pain

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Spinal astrocytes have emerged as important mechanistic contributors to the genesis of mechanical allodynia (MA) in neuropathic pain. We recently demonstrated that the spinal sigma non-opioid intracellular receptor 1 (σ1 receptor) modulates p38 MAPK phosphorylation (p-p38), which plays a critical role in the induction of MA in neuropathic rats. However, the histological and physiological relationships among σ1, p-p38 and astrocyte activation is unclear.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

We investigated: (i) the precise location of σ1 receptors and p-p38 in spinal dorsal horn; (ii) whether the inhibition of σ1 receptors or p38 modulates chronic constriction injury (CCI)-induced astrocyte activation; and (iii) whether this modulation of astrocyte activity is associated with MA development in CCI mice.

KEY RESULTS

The expression of σ1 receptors was significantly increased in astrocytes on day 3 following CCI surgery. Sustained intrathecal treatment with the σ1 antagonist, BD-1047, attenuated CCI-induced increase in GFAP-immunoreactive astrocytes, and the treatment combined with fluorocitrate, an astrocyte metabolic inhibitor, synergistically reduced the development of MA, but not thermal hyperalgesia. The number of p-p38-ir astrocytes and neurons, but not microglia was significantly increased. Interestingly, intrathecal BD-1047 attenuated the expression of p-p38 selectively in astrocytes but not in neurons. Moreover, intrathecal treatment with a p38 inhibitor attenuated the GFAP expression, and this treatment combined with fluorocitrate synergistically blocked the induction of MA.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Spinal σ1 receptors are localized in astrocytes and blockade of σ1 receptors inhibits the pathological activation of astrocytes via modulation of p-p38, which ultimately prevents the development of MA in neuropathic mice.

Effects of agmatine on blood-brain barrier stabilization assessed by permeability MRI in a rat model of transient cerebral ischemia

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

BBB disruption after acute ischemic stroke and subsequent permeability increase may be enhanced by reperfusion. Agmatine has been reported to attenuate BBB disruption. Our aim was to evaluate the effects of agmatine on BBB stabilization in a rat model of transient cerebral ischemia by using permeability dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging at early stages and subsequently to demonstrate the feasibility of dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging for the investigation of new therapies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to transient MCA occlusion for 90 minutes. Immediately after reperfusion, agmatine (100 mg/kg) or normal saline was injected intraperitoneally into the agmatine-treated group (n = 17) or the control group, respectively. MR imaging was performed after reperfusion. For quantitative analysis, regions of interest were defined within the infarct area, and values for volume transfer constant, rate transfer coefficient, volume fraction of extravascular extracellular space, and volume fraction of blood plasma were obtained. Infarct volume, infarct growth, quantitative imaging parameters, and numbers of factor VIII-positive cells after immunohistochemical staining were compared between control and agmatine-treated groups.

RESULTS

Among the permeability parameters, volume transfer constant and volume fraction of extravascular extracellular space were significantly lower in the agmatine-treated group compared with the control group (0.05 ± 0.02 minutes(-1) versus 0.08 ± 0.03 minute(-1), P = .012, for volume transfer constant and 0.12 ± 0.06 versus 0.22 ± 0.15, P = .02 for volume fraction of extravascular extracellular space). Other permeability parameters were not significantly different between the groups. The number of factor VIII-positive cells was less in the agmatine-treated group than in the control group (3-fold versus 4-fold, P = .037).

CONCLUSIONS

In ischemic stroke, agmatine protects the BBB, which can be monitored in vivo by quantification of permeability by using dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging. Therefore, dynamic contrast-enhanced MR imaging may serve as a potential imaging biomarker for assessing the BBB stabilization properties of pharmacologic agents.

Helminth infection reactivates latent γ-herpesvirus via cytokine competition at a viral promoter

Mammals are coinfected by multiple pathogens that interact through unknown mechanisms. We found that helminth infection, characterized by the induction of the cytokine interleukin-4 (IL-4) and the activation of the transcription factor Stat6, reactivated murine γ-herpesvirus infection in vivo. IL-4 promoted viral replication and blocked the antiviral effects of interferon-γ (IFNγ) by inducing Stat6 binding to the promoter for an important viral transcriptional transactivator. IL-4 also reactivated human Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus from latency in cultured cells. Exogenous IL-4 plus blockade of IFNγ reactivated latent murine γ-herpesvirus infection in vivo, suggesting a "two-signal" model for viral reactivation. Thus, chronic herpesvirus infection, a component of the mammalian virome, is regulated by the counterpoised actions of multiple cytokines on viral promoters that have evolved to sense host immune status.

Volatile Flavor Components of Ripe and Overripe Ki-mikans (Citrus flaviculpus Hort. ex Tanaka) in Comparison with Hyuganatsu (Citrus tamurana Hort. ex Tanaka)

The volatile flavor components of ripe and overripe ki-mikan (Citrus flaviculpus Hort. ex Tanaka) peel oil samples, which had been isolated by cold-pressing, were investigated by capillary GC and GC-MS, and compared with the Hyuganatsu (Citrus tamurana Hort. ex Tanaka) flavor. Limonene (ripe fruit, 82.44%; overripe fruit, 73.10%) was the most abundant compound in the ki-mikan oil, this being followed by gamma-terpinene (8.83% and 13.74%), trans-beta-farnesene (1.76% and 3.12%) and myrcene (1.54% and 1.13%). The composition of overripe ki-mikan oil was characterized by higher amounts of aliphatic and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, monoterpene and sesquiterpene alcohols, ketones and esters than that of ripe ki-mikan oil. Monoterpene hydrocarbons, especially limonene (84.78%), were predominant in Hyuganatsu oil. The CPO composition of ki-mikan was qualitatively similar to that of Hyuganatsu, but differed quantitatively. The content of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons was higher in the ki-mikan oil samples than in Hyuganatsu oil, while ketones showed the opposite predominance. These differences were more evident in the trans-beta-farnesene and l-carvone contents. The ratio of both these compounds could be used to distinguish ki-mikan oil from Hyuganatsu oil.

DCE and DSC MR perfusion imaging in the differentiation of recurrent tumour from treatment-related changes in patients with glioma

AIM

To retrospectively compare the utility of perfusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in distinguishing treatment-related changes from recurrent disease in glioma patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-one patients with histologically diagnosed gliomas and increased enhancement after or during concurrent (chemo-) radiation therapy were enrolled. They underwent dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) permeability MRI followed by dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) perfusion MRI. The vascular transfer constant (rK(trans)) and initial areas under the concentration curve (riAUC) were obtained from DCE MRI, and cerebral blood volume (rCBV) was obtained from DSC MRI. Patients were classified as having treatment-related changes or recurrent tumours based on clinicoradiological results or pathological results from surgery.

RESULTS

Nineteen patients were diagnosed as having recurrences and 12 patients as having treatment-related changes. The rK(trans), riAUC, and rCBV values in the recurrent group were significantly higher than the values in the group with treatment-related changes (p < 0.05). For all 31 patients, there was no significant difference between DSC MRI and DCE MRI for the differentiating power between recurrence and treatment-related changes (p = 0.7227). However, when including only the 24 patients with concordant values of rK(trans) and riAUC, DCE MRI showed a significant AUC value of 0.786 in the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis (p = 0.003), whereas DSC MRI did not (AUC = 0.643, p = 0.229).

CONCLUSION

MRI perfusion images appear to show promise in distinguishing treatment-related changes from recurrent tumours. When both rK(trans) and riAUC show concordant values, DCE MRI seems to be more powerful than DSC MRI in the differentiation of recurrence from treatment-related changes.

A simple novel endoscopic successive suture device: a validation study for closure strength and reproducibility

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

Endoscopic surgical technology has been developing rapidly. Although several successful endoscopic closure devices have already been introduced, only a few of them have demonstrated improvements in closure strength and reproducibility over conventional endoscopic clip closures or hand sutures. The objective of this study was to test the feasibility of a novel successive suturing device (SSD) by measuring closure strength and reproducibility.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Porcine stomach models were used in this study. Endoclips, full-thickness hand sutures, and the novel SSD sutures were used to close a perforation in the stomach wall, with 10 stomachs being tested for each closure method. Endoclips and SSD sutures were performed using a two-channel endoscope, and the hand sutures were performed from outside of the stomach wall. Air leakage pressure was measured to determine the closure strength and reproducibility of each method.

RESULTS

The mean air leakage pressure of the SSD closure was 62.7 ± 8.2 mmHg. SSD-treated stomachs exhibited significantly greater air leakage pressure than Endoclip-treated stomachs. The standard deviation of bursting pressure in SSD stomachs was found to be significantly smaller than that of hand-sewn stomachs but was not different from that of Endoclip stomachs.

CONCLUSIONS

The consistent closure strength of SSD stomachs demonstrated the reliability and reproducibility of this new closure method. These promising results in closure strength and reproducibility suggest the feasibility of the proposed device for clinical applications.

Molecular characterization and an infectious clone construction of sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) isolated from Korea

Sweet potato leaf curl disease (SPLCD) was primarily identified in sweet potato fields in Korea in 2003, and the complete genomic sequence of sweet potato leaf curl virus (SPLCV) has been cloned. The genome of the Korean SPLCV isolate (SPLCV-KR) comprises 2,828 nucleotides with six open reading frames in DNA-A, similar to a monopartite begomovirus. Additionally, neither the genome B genomic component nor the DNA beta sequence was detected. The results of phylogenetic analysis using the maximum parsimony method showed that SPLCV-KR is more closely related to SPLCV-US (US) than SPLCV-CN (China) and SPLCV-JP (Japan). A tandem repeat dimer of SPLCV-KR was cloned and found to be infectious in sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas) via biolistic inoculation. The SPLCV-infected sweet potatoes exhibited mild leaf curl symptoms of SPLCD, and the newly-replicated viral DNA was detected via Southern blot analysis. Results of biotic, molecular, and phylogenetic characterization suggest that SPLCV-KR is a new strain of SPLCV and is importantly placed in the evolutionary progression from curtoviruses to begomoviruses.

KEYWORDS

sweet potato leaf curl virus; sweet potato leaf curl disease; phylogenetic analysis; infectious clone; biolistic infection.

High anxiety, young age and long waits increase the need for preoperative sedatives in children

OBJECTIVE

This prospective, observational study aimed to identify children likely to require sedation preoperatively by measuring anxiety levels using the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (mYPAS). Other possible predictive factors for preoperative sedation were also investigated.

METHODS

A total of 455 patients aged 2-12 years scheduled for surgery requiring general anaesthesia were enrolled in the study. Patients' anxiety levels were measured using the mYPAS in a preoperative holding area just before patients were separated from their parents or guardians and entered the operating theatre. Anaesthetists blindedto the mYPAS assessments judged whether the child could be separated and enter the operating theatre without a sedative. The ability of the mYPAS to predict the need for preoperative sedation was analysed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

RESULTS

The optimum mYPAS cut-off for requiring sedatives was 41.7 according to ROC curve analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age, mYPAS>40 and waiting time were independent predictors of the requirement for sedative administration.

CONCLUSIONS

High anxiety levels, young age and long waits contributed to the need for preoperative sedation in children.

Proyl isomerase Pin1 facilitates ubiquitin-mediated degradation of cyclin-dependent kinase 10 to induce tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer cells

Endocrine therapies that inhibit estrogen receptor (ER)-α signaling are the most common and effective treatment for ER-α-positive breast cancer. However, the use of these agents is limited by the frequent development of resistance. The aim of this study was to elucidate the mechanisms by which downregulation of CDK10 expression confers resistance to tamoxifen in breast cancer. Here, we show that peptidyl-prolyl isomerase Pin1 downregulates CDK10 protein as a result of its interaction with and ubiquitination of CDK10, thereby affecting CDK10-dependent Raf-1 phosphorylation (S338). Pin1(-/-) mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) show higher CDK10 expression than Pin1(+/+) MEFs, whereas CDK10 protein was downregulated in the rescued Pin1(-/-) MEFs after reexpression of Pin1. Pin1 silencing in SKBR-3 and MCF7 cells increased the CDK10 expression. In human tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer and tamoxifen-resistant MCF7 cells, immunohistochemical staining and immunoblotting analysis shows an inverse correlation between the expression of CDK10 and the degree of tamoxifen resistance. There was also a positive correlation between the high level of P-Raf-1 (Ser338) and Pin1 in human tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer and tamoxifen-resistant MCF7 (TAMR-MCF7) cells. Importantly, 4-OH tamoxifen (4-OHT), when used in combination with overexpressed CDK10 or Raf-1 inhibitor, increased cleaved PARP and DNA fragmentation to inhibit cologenic growth of MCF7 cells and Tamoxifen-resistant MCF7 cells, respectively. On the basis of these findings, we suggest that the Pin1-mediated CDK10 ubiquitination is a major regulator of tamoxifen-resistant breast cancer cell growth and survival.

Predictors for lymph node metastasis in T1 colorectal cancer

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

It is critical that the risk of lymph node metastasis (LNM) is evaluated for determining the suitability of endoscopic resection for T1 colorectal cancer (CRC). Reported risk factors for LNM in completely resected T1 CRC are deep submucosal invasion, grade 3, angiolymphatic invasion, and budding. The aim of the present study was to identify the histopathologic factors associated with LNM in T1 CRC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The study involved 435 patients with T1 CRC treated by endoscopic or surgical resection between January 2001 and April 2010 at the National Cancer Center, Korea. The 435 patients were classified into two groups - those undergoing surgical resection (n = 324) and those undergoing endoscopic resection (n = 111). In the surgically resected group, details regarding depth of submucosal invasion, angiolymphatic invasion, tumor grade, budding, and background adenoma (BGA) were evaluated with respect to presence or absence of LNM. In the endoscopically resected group, the results of follow-ups and additional salvage surgeries were studied.

RESULTS

In the surgically resected group, LNM was detected in 42 patients (13.0 %). Grade 3, angiolymphatic invasion, budding, and the absence of BGA were identified as factors associated with LNM in univariate and multivariate analyses (P < 0.05). Among the 50 patients in the endoscopically resected group with high risk, three were diagnosed as being LNM-positive during the follow-up period. There was no LNM in the endoscopically resected group with low risk.

CONCLUSIONS

Grade 3, angiolymphatic invasion, budding, and the absence of BGA are the risk factors that predict LNM in patients with T1 CRC. In cases where endoscopically resected T1 CRC has no risk factor, cautious follow-up could be recommended. However, if the tumor has any risk factor, additional surgical resection should be considered.