Production and persistence of specific antibodies in COVID-19 patients with hematologic malignancies: role of rituximab

The ability of patients with hematologic malignancies (HM) to develop an effective humoral immune response after COVID-19 is unknown. A prospective study was performed to monitor the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 of patients with follicular lymphoma (FL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), chronic lymphoproliferative disorders (CLD), multiple myeloma (MM), or myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative syndromes (MDS/MPN). Antibody (Ab) levels to the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) and spike (S) protein were measured at +1, +3, +6 months after nasal swabs became PCR-negative. Forty-five patients (9 FL, 8 DLBCL, 8 CLD, 10 MM, 10 MDS/MPS) and 18 controls were studied. Mean anti-N and anti-S-Ab levels were similar between HM patients and controls, and shared the same behavior, with anti-N Ab levels declining at +6 months and anti-S-Ab remaining stable. Seroconversion rates were lower in HM patients than in controls. In lymphoma patients mean Ab levels and seroconversion rates were lower than in other HM patients, primarily because all nine patients who had received rituximab within 6 months before COVID-19 failed to produce anti-N and anti-S-Ab. Only one patient requiring hematological treatment after COVID-19 lost seropositivity after 6 months. No reinfections were observed. These results may inform vaccination policies and clinical management of HM patients.

Aurora A and NF-κB Survival Pathway Drive Chemoresistance in Acute Myeloid Leukemia via the TRAF-Interacting Protein TIFA

Aurora A-dependent NF-κB signaling portends poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and other cancers, but the functional basis underlying this association is unclear. Here, we report that Aurora A is essential for Thr9 phosphorylation of the TRAF-interacting protein TIFA, triggering activation of the NF-κB survival pathway in AML. TIFA protein was overexpressed concurrently with Aurora A and NF-κB signaling factors in patients with de novo AML relative to healthy individuals and also correlated with poor prognosis. Silencing TIFA in AML lines and primary patient cells decreased leukemic cell growth and chemoresistance via downregulation of prosurvival factors Bcl-2 and Bcl-X_L that support NF-κB-dependent antiapoptotic events. Inhibiting TIFA perturbed leukemic cytokine secretion and reduced the IC₅₀ of chemotherapeutic drug treatments in AML cells. Furthermore, in vivo delivery of TIFA-inhibitory fragments potentiated the clearance of myeloblasts in the bone marrow of xenograft-recipient mice via enhanced chemotoxicity. Collectively, our results showed that TIFA supports AML progression and that its targeting can enhance the efficacy of AML treatments. Cancer Res; 77(2); 494-508. ©2016 AACR.

Comparisons of grey and neural network prediction of industrial park wastewater effluent using influent quality and online monitoring parameters

In this study, Grey model (GM) and artificial neural network (ANN) were employed to predict suspended solids (SSeff) and chemical oxygen demand (CODeff) in the effluent from a wastewater treatment plant in industrial park of Taiwan. When constructing model or predicting, the influent quality or online monitoring parameters were adopted as the input variables. ANN was also adopted for comparison. The results indicated that the minimum MAPEs of 16.13 and 9.85% for SSeff and CODeff could be achieved using GMs when online monitoring parameters were taken as the input variables. Although a good fitness could be achieved using ANN, they required a large quantity of data. Contrarily, GM only required a small amount of data (at least four data) and the prediction results were even better than those of ANN. Therefore, GM could be applied successfully in predicting effluent when the information was not sufficient. The results also indicated that these simple online monitoring parameters could be applied on prediction of effluent quality well.

Metformin-like effects of Quei Fu Di Huang Wan, a Chinese herbal mixture, on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rat

Effect on plasma glucose concentration of Quei Fu Di Huang Wan (Quei Fu DHW), the herbal mixture widely used to treat diabetic disorder in Chinese traditional medicine, was investigated in diabetic rats deficient in insulin. Changes of plasma glucose in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (STZ-diabetic rats) receiving repeated oral administration of Quei Fu DHW were determined. Also, the mRNA level (by Northern blotting) and protein level (by Western blotting) of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) in liver from STZ-diabetic rats were measured to compare differences between groups receiving repeated oral administration of Quei Fu DHW, metformin, and two active herbs (Zou Guei or Fuzei) at effective dosages. In STZ-diabetic rats, acute oral administration of Quei Fu DHW decreased the plasma glucose level significantly in a dose-dependent manner from 5 mg/kg to 26.0 mg/kg. Similar treatment with Quei Fu DHW also brought on a plasma glucose-lowering effect in normal rats, although the effectiveness was not as significant as in STZ-diabetic rats. Repeated oral treatment of Quei Fu DHW at 26 mg/kg every 8 h, three times daily for 3 days, produced a plasma glucose-lowering activity similar to that of metformin-treatment in STZ-diabetic rats. Oral administration of Zou Guei (Cinnamomi Cortex) or Fuzei (Aconiti Tuber), the individual constituent of Quei Fu DHW, at the dose of 50 mg/kg into STZ-diabetic rats for 3 days normalized hyperglycemia. Similar to the repeated treatment with Quei Fu DHW, Fuzei at the effective dose reversed the elevated mRNA and protein levels of PEPCK in liver from STZ-diabetic rats. This is consistent with findings that metformin restored the increased gene expression of PEPCK in liver from STZ-diabetic rats. However, the gene expression of PEPCK in STZ-diabetic rats was not influenced by similar treatment with Zou Guei. The present study found that oral administration of Quei Fu DHW could decrease hepatic gluconeogenesis in a way similar to metformin in lowering plasma glucose in diabetic rats lacking insulin. Thus, this preparation may be a helpful adjuvant for the treatment of diabetic disorders in clinical practice.

NK cell functions restrain T cell responses during viral infections

NK cell functions for regulation of T cell responses were evaluated during acute viral infections. In vivo depletion studies established that the presence of NK cells in murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV)-infected immunocompetent mice negatively affected CD4 and CD8 T cell IFN-gamma expression, bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) incorporation, and expansion. To evaluate NK cell effects, under conditions when NK cells do not control viral replication, experiments were performed using lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV). Depletion of NK cells did not affect LCMV-elicited T cell responses in immunocompetent mice; however, the presence of NK cells did inhibit CD4 T cell IFN-gamma production, BrdU incorporation, and expansion in infected MHC class I- and CD8 T cell-deficient beta2M-/- mice. Together, the results reveal a previously unappreciated immunoregulatory role of NK cells for downstream T cell responses.

Stimulation of insulin release in rats by Die-Huang-Wan, a herbal mixture used in Chinese traditional medicine

Die-Huang-Wan is a herbal mixture widely used in Chinese traditional medicine to treat diabetic disorders. We have investigated the effect of Die-Huang-Wan on plasma glucose concentration in-vivo. Die-Huang-Wan was administered orally (5.0, 15.0 or 26.0 mg kg(-1)) to three rat models. Wistar rats were used as the normal animal model, rats with insulin-resistance (induced by the repeated thrice daily injection of human long-acting insulin) were used as the non-insulin-dependent diabetic model, and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats were used as the insulin-dependent diabetic model. In normal rats, approximately 1 h after oral administration of Die-Huang-Wan the plasma glucose concentration decreased significantly in a dose-dependent manner, from 5 to 26.0 mg kg(-1). A similar effect was observed in rats with insulin-resistance. However, this effect was not observed in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, even at an oral dose of 26.0 mg kg(-1). These results suggested an insulin-dependent action, a view supported by the increase of plasma insulin-like immunoreactivity in normal rats receiving Die-Huang-Wan. The results indicated that Die-Huang-Wan had an ability to stimulate the secretion of insulin and this preparation seemed helpful in improving the diabetic condition, especially hyperglycaemia in type-II diabetes.

Case study: how to apply data mining techniques in a healthcare data warehouse

Healthcare provider organizations are faced with a rising number of financial pressures. Both administrators and physicians need help analyzing large numbers of clinical and financial data when making decisions. To assist them, Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center and Hitachi America, Ltd. (HAL), Inc., have partnered to build an enterprise data warehouse and perform a series of case study analyses. This article focuses on one analysis, which was performed by a team of physicians and computer science researchers, using a commercially available on-line analytical processing (OLAP) tool in conjunction with proprietary data mining techniques developed by HAL researchers. The initial objective of the analysis was to discover how to use data mining techniques to make business decisions that can influence cost, revenue, and operational efficiency while maintaining a high level of care. Another objective was to understand how to apply these techniques appropriately and to find a repeatable method for analyzing data and finding business insights. The process used to identify opportunities and effect changes is described.

Effect of mitomycin C for combined trabeculectomy and phacoemulsification

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of intraoperative mitomycin C (MMC) for trabeculectomy combined with phacoemulsification (phacotrab) in patients with coexisting glaucoma and cataract.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of consecutive patients who underwent phacotrab from July, 1996, to March, 1998. The pre- and postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP), number of glaucoma medications, visual acuity (VA), and postoperative complications were compared among 22 patients (22 eyes) who received intraoperative MMC and 18 patients (18 eyes) who did not receive MMC, served as the control group. Data of age, gender, type of glaucoma, number of glaucoma medications, cup-to-disc ratio of the optic nerve and the extent of visual field defects were also evaluated. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to compare the surgical success rates between two groups.

RESULTS

The mean IOP decreased from 16.1 +/- 4.2 mmHg to 10.94 +/- 3.6 mmHg in the MMC group, and from 18.7 +/- 6.9 mmHg to 14.6 +/- 1.9 mmHg in the control group at one year of follow-up. The mean postoperative IOPs were significantly lower in the MMC group than in the control group at one week, two weeks, and one, two, nine and 12 months. Postoperative mean VA log10 minimum angle of resolution (MAR) improved significantly in both groups. The mean number of medications decreased from 1.91 +/- 0.75 to 0.18 +/- 0.50 in the MMC group, and from 1.89 +/- 0.47 to 0.72 +/- 0.75 in the control group (p < 0.001 for both). The one-year complete success rate was significantly higher in the MMC group (p = 0.0038) than in the control group. No major complication was found throughout the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative MMC in phacotrab may improve postoperative filtration with less dependence on glaucoma medication. No significant adverse effects were associated with MMC application.

A developmental study of novH gene expression in human central nervous system

The expression pattern of the human nephroblastoma overexpressed (novH) gene in the fetal human central nervous system was examined by in situ hybridization using digoxigenin-labeled novH-specific riboprobes. In the spinal cord, the nov-expressing neurons were first detected both in the ventral region at 16 weeks of gestation (G16W) and in the dorsal region at G38W. In the medulla, nov-expressing neurons were detected in the principal nucleus of the inferior olive, the hypoglossal nucleus and the dorsal motor nucleus of vagus at G16W. Nov-positive neurons were detected at G28W in the nucleus of the spinal tract of the trigeminal and cuneate nucleus, and at G38W in the abducens nucleus of pons, the red nucleus and the substantia nigra of the midbrain, the ventral posterolateral and the mediodorsal thalamic nucleus. A strong labeling was also detected in the striatum of the cerebrum and the cerebral cortex of the parietal lobe. These data established that novH is mainly expressed in somato-motor neurons in the lower central nervous system at early developmental stages and in the higher central nervous system at later stages, suggesting that nov may play an important role in neuronal differentiation.

CD4+ and CD8+ T cell interactions in IFN-gamma and IL-4 responses to viral infections: requirements for IL-2

Cytokine responses to lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus infections were evaluated, and CD8+ T cell, CD4+ T cell, and IL-2 contributions delineated. In immunocompetent mice, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus induced both IFN-gamma and IL-4 as well as IL-2. Experiments in mice either beta2-microglobulin-deficient, lacking MHC class I molecules and CD8+ T cells, or A beta(b)-deficient, lacking MHC class II molecules and CD4+ T cells, demonstrated that mixtures of T cell responses were required for optimal ex vivo cytokine productions. Intracellular cytokine expression analyses of cells from immunocompetent and immunodeficient mice showed that CD8+ T cells were predominant IFN-gamma producers, and that expansion of CD8+ T cells primed to make IFN-gamma was independent of CD4+ T cells in vivo. Studies in IL-2-deficient mice demonstrated that this cytokine promoted IFN-gamma and IL-4 responses, and ex vivo experiments showed that exogenous IL-2 was required to maintain high-level IFN-gamma production by in vivo-primed CD8+ T cells. Conditions associated with cytokine decreases were accompanied by reduced detectable plasma Ab responses. The results indicate that, although IL-2-dependent CD8+ T cell proliferation does not require endogenous CD4+ T cells, IL-2 production by the CD4+ T cells may promote continued cytokine release from activated CD8+ T cells. By defining these critical steps in cellular and cytokine interactions for shaping endogenous immune responses, the studies advance understanding of the unique conditions regulating CD8+ T cell responses to viral challenges.

Primary neuroendocrine differentiated mucinous adenocarcinoma of the vulva: case report and review of the literature

Only a few cases on mucinous adenocarcinomas of the vulva have been reported. In this study, we present a case of a 75-year-old woman with a tumor in the left major labium. Because biopsy had shown formations of squamous cell carcinoma, radical vulvectomy with bilateral inguinal and femoral lymph node dissection were performed. At that time, histology was interpreted as small-cell, anaplastic carcinoma, with focal epidermoid differentiation. Postoperative radiation therapy was performed. Sixteen months after surgery, the patient presented with bilateral breast carcinomas. Histology showed a scirrhous carcinoma of the left and a medullary carcinoma of the right breast, but no lymph node metastases. Histochemical and immunohistochemical re-examination of the vulvar carcinoma now revealed a mucinous adenocarcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation. The tumor expressed neuroendocrine markers such as chromogranin A and protein gene-product (PGP) 9.5, as well as peptides of the vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) family, and serotonin. Histochemical silver stains demonstrated Grimelius argyrophilia and Masson argentaffinity. Because of positive estrogen and progesterone receptor status of both breast cancers, postoperative Tamoxifen therapy was performed. The patient is still alive four years after vulvectomy.

Quantitative analysis of calcitonin gene-related peptide- and neuropeptide Y-immunoreactive nerve fibers in mesenteric blood vessels of rats irradiated with cobalt-60 gamma rays

The effects of 60Co gamma rays on calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-immunoreactive nerve fibers and neuropeptide Y (NPY)-immunoreactive nerve fibers were examined in mesenteric blood vessels of rats. Using a free-floating immunostaining streptavidin-biotin peroxidase complex method combined with a nickel-enhancement technique, we found that the distribution pattern of these two peptidergic nerve fibers in superior mesenteric arteries and superior mesenteric veins did not change, while the densities of CGRP-immunoreactive nerve fibers and NPY-immunoreactive nerve fibers in superior mesenteric arteries and veins varied with the time after irradiation. The results suggested that CGRP and NPY may be important in the development and elimination of radiation-induced injury.

Mapping of a major genetic modifier of embryonic lethality in TGF beta 1 knockout mice

The transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF beta 1) signalling pathway is important in embryogenesis and has been implicated in hereditary haemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), atherosclerosis, tumorigenesis and immunomodulation. Therefore, identification of factors which modulate TGF beta 1 bioactivity in vivo is important. On a mixed genetic background, approximately 50% Tgfb1-/- conceptuses die midgestation from defective yolk sac vasculogenesis. The other half are developmentally normal but die three weeks postpartum. Intriguingly, the vascular defects of Tgfb1-/- mice share histological similarities to lesions seen in HHT patients. It has been suggested that dichotomy in Tgfb1-/- lethal phenotypes is due to maternal TGF beta 1 rescue of some, but not all, Tgfb1-/- embryos12. Here we show that the Tgfb1-/- phenotype depends on the genetic background of the conceptus. In NIH/Ola, C57BL/6J/Ola and F1 conceptuses, Tgfb1-/- lethality can be categorized into three developmental classes. A major codominant modifier gene of embryo lethality was mapped to proximal mouse chromosome 5, using a genome scan for non-mendelian distribution of alleles in Tgfb1-/- neonatal animals which survive prenatal lethality. This gene accounts for around three quarters of the genetic effect between mouse strains and can, in part, explain the distribution of the three lethal phenotypes. This approach, using neonatal DNA samples, is generally applicable to identification of loci that influence the effect of early embryonic lethal mutations, thus furthering knowledge of genetic interactions that occur during early mammalian development in vivo.

Interferon-alpha/beta inhibition of interleukin 12 and interferon-gamma production in vitro and endogenously during viral infection

Interferon (IFN)-alpha/beta-mediated negative regulation of interleukin 12 (IL-12) and IFN-gamma proteins is reported here. Both IFN-alpha and IFN-beta inhibited fixed Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain induction of IL-12 and IFN-gamma production by mouse splenic leukocytes in culture. Extended studies with IFN-alpha demonstrated that inhibition was at the level of biologically active IL-12 p70. Effects were selective, as induction of tumor necrosis factor was unaffected and induction of IL-6 was enhanced. Neutralization of IFN-alpha/beta expressed endogenously during infections with murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) enhanced early IL-12 and IFN-gamma protein production. Furthermore, during infections of mice with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), this treatment revealed a previously undetected early IL-12 and IFN-gamma protein expression, and mice deficient in IFN-alpha/beta receptor function, but not control mice, also expressed endogenous LCMV-induced IL-12. The effects of IFN-alpha/beta neutralization on production of IL-12 and IFN-gamma during the viral infections were detected in both serum samples and medium conditioned with splenic leukocytes isolated from infected animals. In vitro studies demonstrated that splenic leukocytes isolated from LCMV-infected mice were primed to produce IL-12 in response to stimulation with Staphylococcus aureus Cowan strain, but that this responsiveness was sensitive to added IFN-alpha. Moreover, endogenous IFN-alpha/beta induced by LCMV inhibited in vivo lipopolysaccharide stimulation of IL-12 production. These results demonstrate a new pathway for regulating cytokine responses, and suggest a mechanism for inhibition of IL-12-dependent immune responses during viral infections.

Function and Regulation of Natural Killer (NK) Cells during Viral Infections: Characterization of Responses in Vivo

Although in vitro systems have provided important information about the composition and nature of various immune responses, understanding physiologically relevant function and regulation requires evaluating in vivo conditions. Two different models of acute viral infections have made possible the characterization of a variety of responses to these agents, including natural killer (NK) cell activation and regulation during infection; these are mouse infections with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) and murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV). The results of our characterization of the NK cell responses elicited in these models and the methods used to dissect the regulation of these responses are reviewed here. Cytotoxicity, proliferation, and cytokine expression assays as well as flow cytometric analyses are used to characterize the in vivo responses. Both of the infections induce early NK cell cytotoxicity and blastogenesis. Infection with MCMV but not LCMV also induces NK cell production of the antiviral cytokine, interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma). Antibodies, to mediate in vivo cell subset depletion or cytokine neutralization, and mice, genetically altered to have cell subset or cytokine deficiencies, are utilized to identify the regulatory pathways and mechanisms controlling endogenous NK cell responses to the infections. The major mediators of the regulation of NK cell function during viral infection of normal mice are IFN-alpha/beta and interleukin-12 but not interleukin-2. Furthermore, the induction of later T-cell responses contributes to the negative regulation of NK cells by promoting the production of inhibitory factors including biologically active transforming growth factors-beta. Thus, the study of immune responses to viral infections has provided and will continue to provide important insights into the characteristics of endogenous NK cell responses and the cells and factors that regulate these responses in vivo.

Genistein suppresses EGF-induced prostaglandin biosynthesis by a mechanism independent of EGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibition

This study demonstrated that genistein, a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor, blocked PGE2 production in human A431 and WISH cells and murine 3T3 cells in response to epidermal growth factor and platelet-derived growth factor. Blockade of growth factor-induced PGE2 production was dose-dependent (IC50 approximately equal to 7-8 microM). Genistein also abolished PGE2 formation in response to calcium ionophores, A23187 and ionomycin, and the phorbol ester, phorbol myristate acetate. Moreover, genistein-treated A431 and WISH cells incorporated significantly less [3H]arachidonic acid into membrane phospholipids than control cells. Finally, genistein decreased the specific activity of prostaglandin H2 synthase prepared from A431 cells, WISH cells, and ram seminal vesicle. The IC50 of genistein for inhibition of prostaglandin H2 synthase specific activity extracted from A431 and WISH cells approximated that half-maximal inhibitory concentration in the whole cell assay. These data indicate that genistein may interfere with arachidonic acid metabolism at several key points by a mechanism(s) that is independent of its inhibitory action on receptor tyrosine protein kinases. Taken together, these results also suggest that caution should be exercised when drawing conclusions about the putative role of tyrosine kinases in signal transduction events using genistein as a pharmacological blocker.

Serotypes, biotypes and antibiotic susceptibility of 126 clinical isolates of Haemophilus influenzae

Serotypes, biotypes, and antibiotic susceptibility of 126 Haemophilus influenzae isolates were determined. Five of the 126 isolates were from blood and were encapsulated type b strains; those taken from other sites were not typable. There were 13% biotype I, 36% biotype II, 38% biotype III, 5% biotype IV, 4% biotype V, and 4% biotype VI isolates. Antibiotic susceptibility tests using the standard disk diffusion method showed the following resistance: ampicillin 51%, cefamandole 10%, cefuroxime 3%, chloramphenicol 28%, tetracycline 37% and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim 49%. None of the five type b isolates were resistant to cefotaxime, a third generation cephalosporin. The second generation cephalosporins, cefamandole and cefuroxime, showed a superior activity against H. influenzae isolates, compared to other antibiotics. Multiple drug resistance was found in 64 (51%) isolates. Four of the five type b isolates were resistant to multiple drugs. The multiple-resistance pattern most frequently observed was to ampicillin, chloramphenicol, tetracycline and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim. Most clinical isolates did not contain plasmids; therefore, the antibiotic resistance of these H. influenzae strains was probably chromosome-mediated.

IL-2-dependent NK cell responses discovered in virus-infected beta 2-microglobulin-deficient mice

In vivo NK cell responses to lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus were studied in CD8+ T cell-deficient mice. On day 7 after infection, dramatically elevated splenic NK cell activities were observed in both beta 2-microglobulin-negative (beta 2-m-/-) mice deficient in CD8+ T cells and anti-CD8-treated C57BL/6 animals. The enhanced responses could be attributed to increased numbers of activated NK1.1+CD3- cells. The day 7 NK cell responses in beta 2-m-/- mice, but not in normal C57BL/6 animals, were cyclosporin A sensitive and coincided with IL-2 production and high affinity IL-2R expression on NK cells. Proof that IL-2 played an essential role in day 7 responses was provided by the observation that IL-2-/- x beta 2-m-/- mice lacked the late NK cell activation. Taken together, these results showed that NK cells can be activated and expanded by an IL-2-dependent pathway. Because these responses can only be measured in the absence of CD8+ T lymphocytes, an exciting model of networking between T and NK cells in response to viruses is postulated.

IL-2-dependent NK cell responses discovered in virus-infected beta 2-microglobulin-deficient mice

In vivo NK cell responses to lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus were studied in CD8+ T cell-deficient mice. On day 7 after infection, dramatically elevated splenic NK cell activities were observed in both beta 2-microglobulin-negative (beta 2-m-/-) mice deficient in CD8+ T cells and anti-CD8-treated C57BL/6 animals. The enhanced responses could be attributed to increased numbers of activated NK1.1+CD3- cells. The day 7 NK cell responses in beta 2-m-/- mice, but not in normal C57BL/6 animals, were cyclosporin A sensitive and coincided with IL-2 production and high affinity IL-2R expression on NK cells. Proof that IL-2 played an essential role in day 7 responses was provided by the observation that IL-2-/- x beta 2-m-/- mice lacked the late NK cell activation. Taken together, these results showed that NK cells can be activated and expanded by an IL-2-dependent pathway. Because these responses can only be measured in the absence of CD8+ T lymphocytes, an exciting model of networking between T and NK cells in response to viruses is postulated.

Interleukin-1 beta regulates the inducible cyclooxygenase in amnion-derived WISH cells

The purpose of this study was to determine the mechanism of enhanced prostaglandin synthesis in amnion-derived WISH cell cultures when stimulated by interleukin-1 beta (IL-1 beta). Confluent monolayer cultures of WISH cells were incubated with human recombinant IL-1 beta (0.001-10 ng/ml) for 0-24 hours, while control cells received medium alone. PGE2 production was measured by specific radioimmunoassay. IL-1 beta enhanced the production of PGE2 in a dose- and time-dependent manner with enhanced production detectable by 2 h following exposure. Immunoblot analysis using isoform-specific antibodies showed that the inducible cyclooxygenase enzyme, i.e., COX-2, was expressed by 2 h in IL-1 treated cells, while the constitutive COX-1 remained unaltered in its expression. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that COX-2 mRNA expression was not detected in untreated cells, but became evident after a 30-min exposure to IL-1 beta (10 ng/ml). COX-1 mRNA was detected under basal conditions and did not increase significantly following IL-1 beta treatment. The close parallel between the kinetics of COX-2 mRNA and protein expression and PGE2 accumulation in the medium, as well as the constitutive, unregulated nature of the COX-1 isoform, indicates that cytokine-driven PGE2 formation in WISH cells may be mediated by de novo expression of the novel COX-2 enzyme.

Failure of nonimmunogenic islet allografts to induce donor-specific immunological unresponsiveness [corrected]

Highly purified perinatal rat islets, isolated by a nonenzymic in vitro culture technique, have been successfully transplanted across complete MHC barriers without immunosuppression. Acceptance of these allogeneically transplanted islets is hypothesized to result from an absence of antigen presenting cells (APCs) within the islets. This study was designed to examine the effects of organ transplantation and cyclosporine (CsA) therapy on the development of immunological unresponsiveness in recipients receiving a graft of culture-isolated islets. Kidneys were successfully allotransplanted into unilaterally nephrectomized rats, across a complete MHC barrier (Rt1lv1 to Rt1u) using CsA therapy initiated on the day of transplantation (7.5 mg/kg, orally for 14 days). Remaining native kidneys were removed 14 days following renal allotransplantation. Limited mononuclear cell (MNC) infiltrates were observed in biopsies of renal allografts, taken 30 days posttransplant, but failure of the renal allograft was not observed. Animals bearing established renal allografts (n = 10) received allografts of approximately 200 highly purified perinatal islets (ACl, n = 5; F-344, n = 5), transplanted to the kidney subcapsule of the established renal allograft at least 30 days following renal allotransplantation (at least 16 days following termination of CsA). Islet allografts were not rejected, and, as expected, did not initiate rejection of the renal allograft. Similar results were observed in renal allograft recipients rendered diabetic by a single injection of streptozotocin (STZ, 65 mg/kg, n = 5) and receiving islet allografts of sufficient mass (approximately 1200-1400 islets) to reverse STZ-induced hyperglycemia. Further, neither islet nor renal allografts were rejected following challenge by 1 x 10(7) donor-strain dendritic cells (DCs).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Transforming growth factor-beta expression and natural killer cell responses during virus infection of normal, nude, and SCID mice

The experiments presented here assess the contribution of T cells to NK cell regulation and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) production. The kinetics of NK cell activation in the absence of T cells was evaluated by comparing responses in athymic nude and SCID mice to those in normal C3H/HeN, C57BL/6, and BALB/c mice during lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection. T cell-deficient mice exhibited high NK cell activity for longer periods of time post-infection. To determine whether the reduction in NK cell activation at later times post-infection of normal mice resulted from induction of negative regulatory elements, mice were treated with the chemical IFN and NK cell inducing agent polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C). Although poly I:C induced plasma IFN in both uninfected and LCMV-infected normal mice, NK cell activity was elevated in the uninfected mice only. In vivo expression of TGF-beta protein in normal and T cell-deficient mice was evaluated by immunohistochemical studies on splenic sections. TGF-beta proteins were not detected in sections from uninfected mice but were induced in all strains during infection. High levels of TGF-beta proteins were localized to discrete cells, and diffuse staining was observed along marginal zones. The ability of the splenic leukocytes to release TGF-beta into conditioned media was evaluated in the Mv 1 Lu biologic assay. Transient acid treatment to release active factor from the latent form and use of specific neutralizing antibodies demonstrated that leukocytes from all strains of infected mice had released latent TGF-beta 1 into conditioned media. However, cells from infected nude or SCID mice produced substantially less active TGF-beta than those isolated from normal mice. Production of biologically active TGF-beta 1 was dependent upon the presence of T cells in normal mice, as in vivo depletion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells by antibody treatment resulted in augmented NK cell activity and loss of active factor production. The lack of TGF-beta production was accompanied by increased NK cell numbers; at late times post-infection, T cell-deficient C57BL/6-nude mice had almost twice as many NK1.1+CD3- cells per spleen compared with T cell-containing C57BL/6 littermate control mice. Treatment with active TGF-beta 1 reduced the numbers of NK cells per spleen in infected nude mice to the levels found in infected littermate controls.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Transforming growth factor-beta expression and natural killer cell responses during virus infection of normal, nude, and SCID mice

The experiments presented here assess the contribution of T cells to NK cell regulation and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) production. The kinetics of NK cell activation in the absence of T cells was evaluated by comparing responses in athymic nude and SCID mice to those in normal C3H/HeN, C57BL/6, and BALB/c mice during lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) infection. T cell-deficient mice exhibited high NK cell activity for longer periods of time post-infection. To determine whether the reduction in NK cell activation at later times post-infection of normal mice resulted from induction of negative regulatory elements, mice were treated with the chemical IFN and NK cell inducing agent polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly I:C). Although poly I:C induced plasma IFN in both uninfected and LCMV-infected normal mice, NK cell activity was elevated in the uninfected mice only. In vivo expression of TGF-beta protein in normal and T cell-deficient mice was evaluated by immunohistochemical studies on splenic sections. TGF-beta proteins were not detected in sections from uninfected mice but were induced in all strains during infection. High levels of TGF-beta proteins were localized to discrete cells, and diffuse staining was observed along marginal zones. The ability of the splenic leukocytes to release TGF-beta into conditioned media was evaluated in the Mv 1 Lu biologic assay. Transient acid treatment to release active factor from the latent form and use of specific neutralizing antibodies demonstrated that leukocytes from all strains of infected mice had released latent TGF-beta 1 into conditioned media. However, cells from infected nude or SCID mice produced substantially less active TGF-beta than those isolated from normal mice. Production of biologically active TGF-beta 1 was dependent upon the presence of T cells in normal mice, as in vivo depletion of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells by antibody treatment resulted in augmented NK cell activity and loss of active factor production. The lack of TGF-beta production was accompanied by increased NK cell numbers; at late times post-infection, T cell-deficient C57BL/6-nude mice had almost twice as many NK1.1+CD3- cells per spleen compared with T cell-containing C57BL/6 littermate control mice. Treatment with active TGF-beta 1 reduced the numbers of NK cells per spleen in infected nude mice to the levels found in infected littermate controls.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Expression of functional insulin-like growth factor-I receptors by human amnion cells

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the study was to investigate whether amnion cells contain functional insulin-like growth factor-I receptors.

STUDY DESIGN

To test whether human amnion cells contain insulin-like growth factor-I receptors, radioligand binding studies, affinity cross-linking studies, and Northern blot analysis were conducted in primary amnion cells and in an immortal amnion cell line (WISH). To test whether the insulin-like growth factor-I receptors on amnion cells are functional, cytochalasin B-inhibitable 2-deoxyglucose uptake was measured after stimulating the cells with insulin-like growth factor-I.

RESULTS

Radioligand binding studies demonstrated that primary amnion cells and WISH cells contained a single class of high-affinity receptors with an apparent dissociation constant of 0.18 +/- 0.04 nmol/L and a receptor concentration of 79 +/- 26.2 fmol/mg protein and dissociation constant of 0.44 +/- 0.03 nmol/L and a receptor concentration of 33.3 +/- 6.45 fmol per 106 cells, respectively. Affinity cross-linking studies revealed two major insulin-like growth factor-I binding sites, 135 and 270 kd. Both primary amnion cells and WISH cells exhibited cytochalasin B-inhibitable tritiated 2-deoxyglucose uptake in response to insulin-like growth factor-I treatment. Finally, treatment of WISH cells caused tyrosine phosphorylation of three proteins (molecular weight, 116, 95.4, and 83.5 kd) was observed by Western blotting with antiphosphotyrosine antibodies.

CONCLUSION

These results provide the first evidence that human amnion epithelial cells contain functional high-affinity insulin-like growth factor-I receptors that mediate glucose transport.

[The expression of CD57 immunoreactivity in endocrine cells of human pancreas]

CD57, a glycoprotein, is a specific antigen presented on the surface of human natural killer cells and killer cells. The monoclonal antibody to CD57 has been available. In this study, the avidin-biotin-peroxidase complex (ABC) technique visualized with glucose oxidase-DAB-nickle (GDN) was used to detect the expression of CD57 in endocrine cells of human pancreas. The results showed that the CD57 immunoreactive (CD57-IR) cells were scattered throughout human pancreas. Most of positive cells were localized in the pancreatic islets. Grouped or single cells occurred intercalated between acinar cells, as well as in the epithelium of pancreatic ducts. The anti-CD57-monoclonal antibody stained the myelin sheaths of nerve fibers in all tissues investigated. Alternative sections immunostained with antibodies against bioactive peptides proved the coexistence of CD57 and Glu, SS, HPP or PS in endocrine cells. The significance of the expression of CD57 immunoreactivity in endocrine cells of human pancreas was discussed.

Application of silver acetate autometallography and gold-silver staining methods for in situ DNA hybridization

In situ hybridization using biotinylated DNA probes has become an important tool in histopathology. It is well known that the sensitivity of the methods used to demonstrate viral DNA in formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded specimen depends strongly on the detection system used. In the present study, an optimized in situ DNA hybridization protocol was combined with four different approaches of gold-silver staining methods. For silver enhancement, the recently described method of silver acetate autometallography, a technique allowing highly efficient development without the necessity of dark room illumination has been used. The most efficient detection method found in our experiments was the use of gold-adsorbed anti-biotin antibodies with subsequent silver enhancement. This staining procedure can be completed in 5 hours including hybridization and is a highly sensitive alternative to peroxidase and alkaline phosphatase detection systems.

Catecholamines modulate epidermal growth factor-induced prostaglandin E2 production in amnion-like (WISH) cells by means of a cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent pathway

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to test the hypothesis that catecholamines can modulate epidermal growth factor-induced prostaglandin E2 production in amnion-derived cells via a cyclic adenosine monophosphate-dependent pathway.

STUDY DESIGN

Human amnion-derived WISH cells were used as the model system to study the regulation of prostaglandin E2 production. The concentrations of prostaglandin E2 and cyclic adenosine monophosphate were measured by radioimmunoassay. Statistical significance was determined with the Student t test.

RESULTS

Preexposure of WISH cells to either epinephrine, norepinephrine, or dopamine inhibited epidermal growth factor-induced prostaglandin E2 production. In addition, propranolol blocked both the increase in cyclic adenosine monophosphate accumulation and the inhibition of prostaglandin E2 production caused by epinephrine.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that epidermal growth factor-induced prostaglandin E2 production can be attenuated by preexposure of amnion cells to catecholamines and that the inhibitory effect of catecholamines on epidermal growth factor response may be mediated via a beta-adrenergic receptor--coupled adenylate cyclase.

A role for transforming growth factor-beta 1 in regulating natural killer cell and T lymphocyte proliferative responses during acute infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus

The role of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) in regulating NK and T cell proliferation during acute viral infections was investigated. After infection of mice with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, NK cell proliferation peaks on day 3 and subsides by days 5 to 7 postinfection, whereas T cell proliferation peaks on day 7 and declines by days 9 to 14 postinfection. As TGF-beta 1 has been shown to inhibit lymphocyte proliferation in culture, the production and function of TGF-beta 1 during infection was evaluated in this model. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that the accumulation of TGF-beta 1 transcripts remained relatively constant in total splenic leukocytes during infection. The Mv 1 Lu mink lung cell bioassay was modified and used to evaluate the production of biologically active TGF-beta 1 during infection. Media conditioned with splenic leukocytes isolated from infected mice contained factors that inhibited DNA synthesis by the Mv 1 Lu cells. Low levels of inhibition were observed with conditioned media prepared on day 3 postinfection and high levels of inhibition were observed with conditioned media prepared on days 5 through 14 postinfection. Neutralization with antibodies specific for TGF-beta 1 demonstrated that TGF-beta 1 contributed to the inhibitory activity. As TGF-beta 1 was produced at times coinciding with the decline in NK cell proliferation, the TGF-beta 1 sensitivity of in vivo-elicited NK cells was evaluated. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that NK cell proliferation was extremely sensitive to inhibition by TGF-beta 1. In culture, TGF-beta 1 had an ID50 of 8 pg/ml for inhibiting DNA synthesis by blast NK cells. In vivo, administration of a total of 0.18 micrograms of TGF-beta 1 resulted in a 93% inhibition of NK cell-mediated lytic units per spleen on day 3 postinfection. The inhibition was a result of a block in NK cell proliferation, as administration of TGF-beta 1 profoundly suppressed the appearance of blast size NK cells and the incorporation of [3H] thymidine by NK cell-enriched, blast lymphocyte populations on day 3 postinfection. In contrast to NK cell proliferation, T cell proliferation was not inhibited by up to 100-fold higher concentrations of the factor in vitro or in vivo. Taken together, these data demonstrate that TGF-beta 1 is an important regulator of NK cell proliferation in vivo. Furthermore, the results indicate that differential sensitivity to TGF-beta 1 may contribute to the coordination of NK and T cell responses during viral infections.

A role for transforming growth factor-beta 1 in regulating natural killer cell and T lymphocyte proliferative responses during acute infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus

The role of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) in regulating NK and T cell proliferation during acute viral infections was investigated. After infection of mice with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, NK cell proliferation peaks on day 3 and subsides by days 5 to 7 postinfection, whereas T cell proliferation peaks on day 7 and declines by days 9 to 14 postinfection. As TGF-beta 1 has been shown to inhibit lymphocyte proliferation in culture, the production and function of TGF-beta 1 during infection was evaluated in this model. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that the accumulation of TGF-beta 1 transcripts remained relatively constant in total splenic leukocytes during infection. The Mv 1 Lu mink lung cell bioassay was modified and used to evaluate the production of biologically active TGF-beta 1 during infection. Media conditioned with splenic leukocytes isolated from infected mice contained factors that inhibited DNA synthesis by the Mv 1 Lu cells. Low levels of inhibition were observed with conditioned media prepared on day 3 postinfection and high levels of inhibition were observed with conditioned media prepared on days 5 through 14 postinfection. Neutralization with antibodies specific for TGF-beta 1 demonstrated that TGF-beta 1 contributed to the inhibitory activity. As TGF-beta 1 was produced at times coinciding with the decline in NK cell proliferation, the TGF-beta 1 sensitivity of in vivo-elicited NK cells was evaluated. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated that NK cell proliferation was extremely sensitive to inhibition by TGF-beta 1. In culture, TGF-beta 1 had an ID50 of 8 pg/ml for inhibiting DNA synthesis by blast NK cells. In vivo, administration of a total of 0.18 micrograms of TGF-beta 1 resulted in a 93% inhibition of NK cell-mediated lytic units per spleen on day 3 postinfection. The inhibition was a result of a block in NK cell proliferation, as administration of TGF-beta 1 profoundly suppressed the appearance of blast size NK cells and the incorporation of [3H] thymidine by NK cell-enriched, blast lymphocyte populations on day 3 postinfection. In contrast to NK cell proliferation, T cell proliferation was not inhibited by up to 100-fold higher concentrations of the factor in vitro or in vivo. Taken together, these data demonstrate that TGF-beta 1 is an important regulator of NK cell proliferation in vivo. Furthermore, the results indicate that differential sensitivity to TGF-beta 1 may contribute to the coordination of NK and T cell responses during viral infections.

Treatment of bilateral intrahepatic stones with high duct strictures through selective central hepatic resection

Bilateral intrahepatic duct stones with strictures, more common in the Orient than elsewhere, are difficult to access surgically. The results of surgical procedures have not been generally successful and are attended by a high postoperative complication and recurrence rate. We report the treatment of 30 patients with intrahepatic calculi and high duct strictures by means of selective central hepatic resection without dissection of the major vessels at the hilum. Central hepatic resection provided satisfactory access to the primary and secondary confluences of the intrahepatic ducts, allowed removal of residual stones and ascariasis, and permitted correction of multiple strictures. Twenty-nine patients so treated were followed for a mean of 32 months after operation. No patients developed recurrent fever, biliary colic, or jaundice after the operation. The technique is therefore recommended as an effective alternative to extensive hepatic lobectomy in the treatment of the intrahepatic calculi with multiple strictures.

Evidence of a role for protein kinase C in epidermal growth factor-induced prostaglandin E2 synthesis in amnion cells

Human amnion cells synthesize and release prostaglandin E2 in response to epidermal growth factor. The protein kinase C activator, phorbol 12-myristate, 13-acetate also stimulates amnion cell prostaglandin E2 synthesis. We used a human amnion cell line (WISH) to conduct in vitro experiments to investigate a potential role of protein kinase C in the signal transduction pathway leading to epidermal growth factor-induced prostaglandin E2 production. Pretreatment of cultured amnion cells with a low, nonstimulating dose of phorbol 12-myristate, 13-acetate potentiated the action of epidermal growth factor in causing prostaglandin E2 production as measured by radioimmunoassay. The protein kinase C-selective inhibitor staurosporine inhibited epidermal growth factor-induced prostaglandin E2 production, further suggesting a role for protein kinase C in epidermal growth factor action. Experiments were conducted in which amnion cells were rendered protein kinase C-deficient by chronic exposure to phorbol ester, which has been shown to down-regulate the enzyme. In these cells, epidermal growth factor caused prostaglandin E2 synthesis at levels comparable to native (non-protein kinase C-deficient) cells. We conclude that protein kinase C plays a more modulatory than direct role in the epidermal growth factor signal transduction cascade that leads to prostaglandin E2 production by amnion cells. We propose a bifurcating transduction scheme in which, under conditions of protein kinase C inactivation, epidermal growth factor alone causes prostaglandin E2 synthesis. When protein kinase C is activated by as yet unknown endogenous substances, the epidermal growth factor responsiveness of the amnion cells is greatly enhanced. This pathway could have important implications in a feed-forward mechanism regulating the level of prostaglandin E2 production during the onset of labor.

Histamine augments colonic secretion in guinea pig distal colon

We tested the hypothesis that the role of histamine in the control of intestinal secretion is mediated by prostaglandins (PGs). The effects of histamine on ion transport were examined in muscle-stripped sheets of mucosa/submucosa set up in flux chambers. Histamine evoked a transient concentration-dependent increase in short-circuit current (Isc) that was reduced by the Cl- transport inhibitor bumetanide. Histamine also caused the release of PGE2. The Isc response to histamine was reduced by indomethacin and piroxicam, which block PG formation, but not by nordihydroguaiaretic acid, which prevents production of lipoxygenase products. 2-Methylhistamine, but not dimaprit, evoked a concentration-dependent increase in Isc. The Isc response to histamine was reduced by the H1-blocker pyrilamine, but not by the H2-antagonist cimetidine. In addition to its direct effect, histamine augmented the responses of endogenously released neurotransmitters with and without indomethacin and hexamethonium. Tetrodotoxin (TTX) reduced the Isc response to 10(-3) M histamine. In the presence of TTX, exogenous histamine amplified the responses to PGs, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, 2-chloroadenosine, bethanechol, and carbachol. These results suggest that histamine acts at H1-receptors on cells within the gut to mediate intestinal Cl- secretion in part by releasing PGs and by augmenting the actions of endogenously released neurotransmitters. Our results indicate that histamine has a role in the regulation of colonic transport function.

Rapid decreases in phosphatidylinositol in isolated luteal plasma membranes after stimulation by luteinizing hormone

Phospholipid concentrations were determined in plasma membrane preparations from porcine corpora lutea after incubation for 15 to 120 s without or with 0.5 microgram/ml luteinizing hormone (LH) or 2 microM dibutyryl cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (dbcAMP). Treatment with LH caused a dramatic loss of 9 nmol in plasma membrane phosphatidylinositol (PI)/mg protein after 15 s of incubation, but no significant changes in other measurable phospholipids. Also, phospholipid concentrations were unchanged in untreated and dbcAMP-treated plasma membranes. The nature of the LH-induced decrease in PI was studied by incubating plasma membrane preparations for 15 s with [gamma 32P] adenosine 3',5'-triphosphate (ATP). 32P was incorporated only into three phospholipids: phosphatidic acid, phosphatidylinositol 4'-phosphate (PIP), and phosphatidylinositol 4',5'-bisphosphate (PIP2). Although LH generated small but significant increases in labeling of PIP and PIP2, less than 0.5 nmol of total phospholipids/mg protein were radiolabeled in 15 s. Phosphatidylinositol kinase activity, the enzyme that converts PI into PIP, was not affected by LH or dbcAMP treatment. However, incubation of luteal plasma membranes for 15 s with LH resulted in an increase of approximately 2 nmol 1,2-diacylglycerol/mg protein more than that observed in untreated or dbcAMP-treated plasma membranes. In summary, these experiments suggest that LH may stimulate hydrolysis of PI (and possibly PIP and PIP2) in isolated luteal plasma membranes.

Dual intrinsic and extrinsic origins of CGRP- and NPY-immunoreactive nerves of rat gut and pancreas

The origins of nerves containing calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), neuropeptide Y (NPY), and substance P were investigated in the rat stomach, pancreas, and colon, using immunocytochemistry combined with retrograde tracing and surgical and chemical denervation procedures. Compared with nerves containing vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and galanin, which have primarily local origins in mammalian gut, CGRP-, NPY-, and substance P-immunoreactive nerves revealed dual extrinsic and intrinsic origins. Immunocytochemistry combined with retrograde tracing showed that the extrinsic CGRP- and substance P-immunoreactive nerves in the stomach and pancreas originate from bilateral dorsal root ganglia mainly at levels T8-T11, while those of the colon are derived from bilateral ganglia at S1 and, to a lesser extent, L1 and L6. Chemical denervations showed that neurons in these ganglia form a sensory input to the gut, and that those containing CGRP form the largest proportion. The results of combined retrograde tracing and immunocytochemistry indicated that extrinsic NPY-immunoreactive nerves originate from postganglionic sympathetic neurons lying in the coeliac and inferior mesenteric ganglia. These nerves were located mainly around blood vessels in gut and pancreas, showed sensitivity to 6-hydroxydopamine, and thus are likely to be noradrenergic. The present study provides a detailed mapping of the origins of some of the major peptide-containing nerves of the rat gastroenteropancreatic tract, thus providing further information on the anatomy of the enteric innervation.

Combined axonal transport tracing and immunocytochemistry for mapping pathways of peptide-containing nerves in the peripheral nervous system

The various combinations of axonal transport tracing and immunocytochemistry used for mapping pathways of peptide-containing nerves, and in particular those of the peripheral nervous system, are reviewed. The advantages and disadvantages of these methods are discussed. The applications and results presented illustrate the future potential value of this approach.

CGRP-immunoreactive nerves in the genitalia of the female rat originate from dorsal root ganglia T11-L3 and L6-S1: a combined immunocytochemical and retrograde tracing study

The origin of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-immunoreactive nerve fibres in the genital organs of the female rat was investigated by immunocytochemistry and retrograde tracing with the fluorescent dye True blue. The tracing results revealed that these tissues receive an afferent nerve supply from two separate groups of dorsal root ganglia: T11-L3 and L6-S1. In T11-L3 ganglia 66-86% of True blue-labelled neurones displayed CGRP immunoreactivity whilst 45-63% of labelled cells in L6-S1 ganglia contained the peptide. The results indicate that CGRP-containing dorsal root ganglion neurones form a major part of the afferent sensory nerve supply to the female rat genitalia.

Calcitonin gene-related peptide immunoreactivity in afferent neurons supplying the urinary tract: combined retrograde tracing and immunohistochemistry

The innervation of rat and guinea pig urinary tract was examined using immunohistochemistry, radioimmunoassay and True Blue retrograde tracing techniques and was further assessed following both surgical and chemical denervation experiments. Substantial amounts of calcitonin gene-related peptide-like immunoreactivity (range 20-150 pmol/g) were detected in tissue extracts and localised to nerve fibres distributed throughout the urinary tract of both species, these being concentrated in the ureter and base of the bladder. In the guinea pig, the number and distribution pattern of calcitonin gene-related peptide-like immunoreactive nerves appeared to be identical to that of substance P-containing nerves, whereas in the rat the former predominated. Seven days after injection of the fluorescent dye True Blue into tissues of the urinary tract, retrogradely labelled cells were found in the dorsal root ganglia. These cells had a segmental distribution pattern which was specific for each of the injection sites. Thus, after injection of True Blue into the left kidney hilum a single group of labelled cells were found in the ipsilateral T10-L2 dorsal root ganglia. In contrast, injection into the left ureter produced labelled cells in two separate groups of ipsilateral ganglia (T11-L3 and L6-S1). Injection into the wall of the bladder and upper urethra resulted in bilateral labelling, with most labelled cells occurring in L6 and S1 ganglia. Approximately 90% of labelled cells in T10-L3 dorsal root ganglia displayed calcitonin gene-related peptide-like immunoreactivity, but only 60% of retrogradely labelled bladder neurons in L6-S1 ganglia were immunoreactive for this peptide. Adult guinea pigs and neonatal rats injected systemically with capsaicin subsequently exhibited a marked reduction both in the amount of calcitonin gene-related peptide immunostaining and the concentration of immunoreactive material in the urinary tract, dorsal root ganglia and spinal cord. In rats treated neonatally with capsaicin, there was a significant reduction in the number of retrogradely labelled cells and a hypertrophy of the bladder. Sectioning of the pelvic and hypogastric nerves in the rat also resulted in a depletion of calcitonin gene-related peptide-like immunoreactive nerves in the bladder, whereas chemical sympathectomy appeared to have no effect. The results indicate that calcitonin gene-related peptide immunoreactivity occurs in a major proportion of afferent neurons supplying the urinary tract of the rat and guinea pig.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Composition and central projections of the pudendal nerve in the rat investigated by combined peptide immunocytochemistry and retrograde fluorescent labelling

The central distribution of the afferent and efferent projections of pelvic striated muscles, the pudendal and sciatic nerves, were systemically investigated in rats by retrograde tracing techniques combined with immunocytochemistry using antibodies to 9 neuropeptides. True Blue was injected into either the pelvic muscles, pudendal or sciatic nerves. Seven days later the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (L3-S2 levels) were processed for immunocytochemistry. Injection of tracer into the pelvic muscles labelled dorsomedial, ventral and dorsolateral motoneuron groups of the L6 segment and a few sensory neurons in the respective dorsal root ganglia. Pudendal nerve injection also labelled the same motoneuron groups, 50% of neurons of the retrodorsolateral column and numerous sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglion. Concomitant labelling of pudendal and sciatic nerves with different fluorescent tracers revealed a small number of double-labelled cells in the dorsal root ganglia but only single-labelled cells in the retrodorsolateral nucleus. Enkephalin-, somatostatin- and neuropeptide Y-containing fibres were particularly abundant in and around dorsomedial and dorsolateral groups as well as the intermediolateral cell column. We conclude that in the rat (a) the pudendal nerve has motor, sensory and autonomic (parasympathetic) components in contrast to the sciatic which is primarily motor and somatosensory, (b) some afferents from these nerves exhibit pre-spinal convergence and (c) dorsomedial and dorsolateral motoneuron groups are homologous to Onuf's nucleus in man.

A VIP/PHI-containing pathway links urinary bladder and sacral spinal cord

Nerve fibres containing VIP and the co-produced PHI are found in the dorsal horn and autonomic centres of the sacral spinal cord and in pelvic organs. We have investigated the origin of these nerve fibres and a possible peptide-containing pathway linking pelvic viscera with the spinal cord of the cat and rat using neurochemical and neurosurgical procedures, retrograde tracing and immunocytochemistry. Cell bodies were located in the dorsal root ganglia (after colchicine injection), pelvic ganglia and bladder wall. Capsaicin treatment induced a loss of VIP/PHI from the dorsal horn. Retrograde tracing from the bladder revealed True Blue labelled cells in the dorsal root ganglia (L6, S1), parasympathetic nuclei and pelvic ganglia. Labelled cells were sequentially immunostained for VIP/PHI which were numerous in pelvic ganglia and scattered and weak in dorsal root ganglia. Pelvic nerve section induced a decrease of VIP/PHI immunoreactivity from the spinal cord and no change or a minimal increase in immunoreactive nerve fibers of the bladder. Thus pelvic visceral afferents with cell bodies in the dorsal root ganglia are a significant source of VIP/PHI-containing fibres in the sacral dorsal horn.

Demonstration of paracervical ganglion origin for the vasoactive intestinal peptide-containing nerves of the rat uterus using retrograde tracing techniques combined with immunocytochemistry and denervation procedures

The origin of the abundant vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)-immunoreactive nerves in the uterus has not been fully determined. In this study, a fluorescent dye, True Blue was injected into the uterus of rat and 6 days later, neuronal cell bodies of the paracervical ganglion were found to be labelled by this dye. Some of these labelled ganglion cells were also found to contain VIP immunoreactivity by immunocytochemistry. When the preganglionic pelvic and/or hypogastric nerves of rats were sectioned, the VIP-immunoreactive nerves in the uteri were not depleted, indicating that these nerves did not originate from the splanchnic ganglion, dorsal root ganglion or the spinal cord. Therefore it is concluded that VIP-immunoreactive nerves in the uterus originate from the paracervical ganglion.