HIV envelope trimers and gp120 as immunogens to induce broadly neutralizing antibodies in cows

The study of immunogens capable of eliciting broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) is crucial for the development of an HIV vaccine. To date, only cows, making use of their ultralong CDRH3 loops, have reliably elicited bnAbs following immunization with HIV Envelope trimers. Antibody responses to the CD4 binding site have been readily elicited by immunization of cows with a stabilized Env trimer of the BG505 strain and, with more difficulty, to the V2-apex region of Env with a cocktail of trimers. Here, we sought to determine whether the BG505 Env trimer could be engineered to generate new bnAb specificities in cows. Since the cow CD4 binding site bnAbs bind to monomeric BG505 gp120, we also sought to determine whether gp120 immunization alone might be sufficient to induce bnAbs. We found that engineering the CD4 binding site by mutation of a key binding residue of BG505 HIV Env resulted in a reduced bnAb response that took more immunizations to develop. Monoclonal antibodies isolated from one animal were directed to the V2-apex, suggesting a re-focusing of the bnAb response. Immunization with monomeric BG505 g120 generated no serum bnAb responses, indicating that the ultralong CDRH3 bnAbs are only elicited in the context of the trimer in the absence of many other less restrictive epitopes presented on monomeric gp120. The results support the notion of a hierarchy of epitopes on HIV Env and suggest that, even with the presence in the cow repertoire of ultralong CDRH3s, bnAb epitopes are relatively disfavored.

Immunization of cows with HIV envelope trimers generates broadly neutralizing antibodies to the V2-apex from the ultralong CDRH3 repertoire

The generation of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) to specific HIV epitopes of the HIV Envelope (Env) is one of the cornerstones of HIV vaccine research. The current animal models we use have been unable to reliable produce a broadly neutralizing antibody response, with the exception of cows. Cows have rapidly and reliably produced a CD4 binding site response by homologous prime and boosting with a native-like Env trimer. In small animal models other engineered immunogens previously have been able to focus antibody responses to the bnAb V2-apex region of Env. Here, we immunized two groups of cows (n=4) with two regiments of V2-apex focusing immunogens to investigate whether antibody responses could be directed to the V2-apex on Env. Group 1 were immunized with chimpanzee simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)-Env trimer that shares its V2-apex with HIV, followed by immunization with C108, a V2-apex focusing immunogen, and finally boosted with a cross-clade native-like trimer cocktail. Group 2 were immunized with HIV C108 Env trimer followed by the same HIV trimer cocktail as Group 1. Longitudinal serum analysis showed that one cow in each group developed serum neutralizing antibody responses to the V2-apex. Eight and 11 bnAbs were isolated from Group 1 and Group 2 cows respectively. The best bnAbs had both medium breadth and potency. Potent and broad responses developed later than previous CD4bs cow bnAbs and required several different immunogens. All isolated bnAbs were derived from the ultralong CDRH3 repertoire. The finding that cow antibodies can target multiple broadly neutralizing epitopes on the HIV surface reveals important insight into the generation of immunogens and testing in the cow animal model. The exclusive isolation of ultralong CDRH3 bnAbs, despite only comprising a small percent of the cow repertoire, suggests these antibodies outcompete the long and short CDRH3 antibodies during the bnAb response.

The smallest functional antibody fragment: Ultralong CDR H3 antibody knob regions potently neutralize SARS-CoV-2

Cows produce antibodies with a disulfide-bonded antigen-binding domain embedded within ultralong heavy chain third complementarity determining regions. This "knob" domain is analogous to natural cysteine-rich peptides such as knottins in that it is small and stable but can accommodate diverse loops and disulfide bonding patterns. We immunized cattle with SARS-CoV-2 spike and found ultralong CDR H3 antibodies that could neutralize several viral variants at picomolar IC50 potencies in vitro and could protect from disease in vivo. The independent CDR H3 peptide knobs were expressed and maintained the properties of the parent antibodies. The knob interaction with SARS-CoV-2 spike was revealed by electron microscopy, X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry and established ultralong CDR H3-derived knobs as the smallest known recombinant independent antigen-binding fragment. Unlike other vertebrate antibody fragments, these knobs are not reliant on the immunoglobulin domain and have potential as a new class of therapeutics.

Immunization of pigs with replication-incompetent adenovirus-vectored African swine fever virus multi-antigens induced humoral immune responses but no protection following contact challenge

Introduction

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a pathogen of great economic importance given that continues to threaten the pork industry worldwide, but there is no safe vaccine or treatment available. Development of a vaccine is feasible as immunization of pigs with some live attenuated ASFV vaccine candidates can confer protection, but safety concerns and virus scalability are challenges that must to be addressed. Identification of protective ASFV antigens is needed to inform the development of efficacious subunit vaccines.

Methods

In this study, replication-incompetent adenovirus-vectored multicistronic ASFV antigen expression constructs that covered nearly 100% of the ASFV proteome were generated and validated using ASFV convalescent serum. Swine were immunized with a cocktail of the expression constructs, designated Ad5-ASFV, alone or formulated with either Montanide ISA-201™ (ASFV-ISA-201) or BioMize^® adjuvant (ASFV-BioMize).

Results

These constructs primed strong B cell responses as judged by anti-pp62-specific IgG responses. Notably, the Ad5-ASFV and the Ad5-ASFV ISA-201, but not the Ad5-ASFV BioMize^®, immunogens primed significantly (p < 0.0001) higher anti-pp62-specific IgG responses compared with Ad5-Luciferase formulated with Montanide ISA-201™ adjuvant (Luc-ISA-201). The anti-pp62-specific IgG responses underwent significant (p < 0.0001) recall in all the vaccinees after boosting and the induced antibodies strongly recognized ASFV (Georgia 2007/1)-infected primary swine cells. However, following challenge by contact spreaders, only one pig nearly immunized with the Ad5-ASFV cocktail survived. The survivor had no typical clinical symptoms, but had viral loads and lesions consistent with chronic ASF.

Discussion

Besides the limited sample size used, the outcome suggests that in vivo antigen expression, but not the antigen content, might be the limitation of this immunization approach as the replication-incompetent adenovirus does not amplify in vivo to effectively prime and expand protective immunity or directly mimic the gene transcription mechanisms of attenuated ASFV. Addressing the in vivo antigen delivery limitations may yield promising outcomes.

CD193 ( CCR3 ) expression by B cells correlates with reduced IgE production in paediatric schistosomiasis

We demonstrate that CD193, the eotaxin receptor, is highly expressed on circulating B cells in paediatric schistosomiasis mansoni. CD193 plays a role in directing granulocytes into sites of allergic-like inflammation in the mucosa, but little is known about its functional significance on human B cells. We sought to characterize CD193 expression and its relationship with S. mansoni infection. We found that CD193+ B cells increased with the intensity of schistosome infection. In addition, a significant negative association was observed between CD193 expression by B cells and IgE production. Decreased IgE levels are generally associated with susceptibility to re-infection. B cell stimulation with eotaxin-1 increased CD193 levels whereas IL-4 led to a reduction. This was supported by plasma levels of eotaxin-1 correlating with CD193 levels on B cells and other cells. In contrast, CD193 expression was induced on naive B cells with a combination of IL-10 and schistosome antigens. Whereas T cells had a modest increase in CD193 expression, only B cell CD193 appeared functionally chemotactic to eotaxin-1. Thus, CD193+ B cells, which co-express CXCR5, may be enroute to sites with allergic-like inflammation, such as gastrointestinal follicles, or even to Th2 granulomas, which develop around parasite eggs. Overall, our results suggest that schistosome infection may promote CD193 expression and suppress IgE via IL-10 and other undefined mechanisms related to B cell trafficking. This study adds to our understanding of why young children may have poor immunity. Nonetheless, praziquantel treatment was shown to reduce percentages of circulating CD193+ B cells lending hope for future vaccine efforts.

[FNDC1 is highly expressed in lung adenocarcinoma and closely related with poor prognosis]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the expression of fibronectin type Ⅲ domain containing 1(FNDC1) protein in lung adenocarcinoma and its prognostic significance.

METHODS

The expression of FNDC1 in lung adenocarcinoma was predicted by analysis of data from GEO database and GEPIA, and the results were verified by immunohistochemical staining in 92 pairs of clinical specimens of lung adenocarcinoma and adjacent tissues.We further analyzed the correlation of FNDC1 expression with the clinicopathological features of the patients, and evaluated its prognostic value using Cox survival analysis.

RESULTS

Analysis of the data form GEO database and GEPIA showed a significantly higher expression level of FNDC1 in lung adenocarcinoma than in matched normal tissues (P < 0.05).Kaplan-Meier survival analysis suggested that a high expression of FNDC1 protein was associated with a significantly shorter overall survival time of the patients (P < 0.05).Immunohistochemistry of the clinical specimens also showed a significantly higher protein expression of FNDC1 in lung adenocarcinoma tissues than in paired adjacent tissues (P < 0.001).A high expression of FNDC1 protein was significantly correlated with advanced clinical stage, T stage and N stage (P < 0.05).Cox univariate and multivariate regression survival analysis indicated that an increased expression of FNDC1 was an independent risk factor for poor prognosis of the patients with lung adenocarcinoma (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

FNDC1 protein is highly expressed in patients with lung adenocarcinoma and in closely related with the occurrence, progression and prognosis of the tumor, suggesting the value of FNDC1 protein as a potential biomarker for assessment of the survival and prognosis of patients with lung adenocarcinoma.

Adenovirus-Vectored African Swine Fever Virus pp220 Induces Robust Antibody, IFN-γ, and CTL Responses in Pigs

African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV) poses a serious threat to the pork industry worldwide; however, there is no safe vaccine or treatment available. The development of an efficacious subunit vaccine will require the identification of protective antigens. The ASFV pp220 polyprotein is essential for virus structural integrity. This polyprotein is processed to generate p5, p34, p14, p37, and p150 individual proteins. Immunization of pigs with a cocktail of adenoviruses expressing the proteins induced significant IgG, IFN-γ-secreting cells, and cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses. Four predicted SLA-I binding nonamer peptides, namely p34161−169, p37859−867, p1501363−1371, and p1501463−1471, recalled strong IFN-γ+ PBMC and splenocyte responses. Notably, peptide p34161−169 was recognized by PBMCs isolated from 7/10 pigs and by splenocytes isolated from 8/10 pigs. Peptides p37859−867 and p1501363−1371 stimulated recall IFN-γ+ responses in PBMCs and splenocytes isolated from 8/10 pigs, whereas peptide p1501463−1471 recalled responses in PBMCs and splenocytes isolated from 7/10 to 9/10 pigs, respectively. The results demonstrate that the pp220 polyprotein contains multiple epitopes that induce robust immune responses in pigs. Importantly, these epitopes are 100% conserved among different ASFV genotypes and were predicted to bind multiple SLA-I alleles. The outcomes suggest that pp220 is a promising candidate for inclusion in a prototype subunit vaccine.

Successful treatment of pulmonary mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microsporus with posaconazole

Background

Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection occurring chiefly in the lung or the rhino-orbital-cerebral compartment, particularly in patients with immunodeficiency or diabetes mellitus. Among Mucorales fungi, Rhizopus spp. are the most common cause of mucormycosis.

Case presentation

We report a case of pulmonary mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microsporus in a young patient with diabetes but no other apparent risk factors. The diagnosis mainly relied on clinical manifestation, positive pulmonary tissue biopsy, and fungal culture. The patient was successfully treated with posaconazole oral suspension and remains asymptomatic at one-year follow-up.

Conclusions

Pulmonary mucormycosis is a life-threatening condition and posaconazole is an effective treatment for pulmonary mucormycosis caused by Rhizopus microspores.

Aetiology of tinea capitis in China: A multicentre prospective study

BACKGROUND

Tinea capitis is still common in developing countries, such as China. Its pathogen spectrum varies across regions and changes over time.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to clarify the current epidemiological characteristics and pathogen spectrum of tinea capitis in China.

METHODS

A multicentre, prospective descriptive study involving 29 tertiary hospitals in China was conducted. From August 2019 to July 2020, 611 patients with tinea capitis were enrolled. Data concerning demography, risk factors and fungal tests were collected. The pathogens were further identified by morphology or molecular sequencing when necessary in the central laboratory.

RESULTS

Among all enrolled patients, 74.1% of the cases were 2- to 8-year-olds. The children with tinea capitis were mainly boys (56.2%) and more likely to have an animal contact history (57.4% vs. 35.3%, P = 0.012) and zoophilic dermatophyte infection (73.5%). The adults were mainly females (83.3%) and more likely to have anthropophilic agent infection (53.5%). The most common pathogen was zoophilic Microsporum canis (354, 65.2%), followed by anthropophilic Trichophyton violaceum (74, 13.6%). In contrast to the eastern, western and northeastern regions where zoophilic M. canis predominated, anthropophilic T. violaceum predominated in central China (69.2%, P < 0.0001), where the patients had the most tinea at other sites (20.3%) and dermatophytosis contact (25.9%) with the least animal contact (38.8%). Microsporum ferrugineum was the most common anthropophilic agent in the western area, especially in Xinjiang Province.

CONCLUSIONS

Boys aged approximately 5 years were mainly affected. Dermatologists are advised to pay more attention to the different transmission routes and pathogen spectra in different age groups from different regions.

[Advances in research on the relationship between bile acid, gut microbiota and the occurrence and development of cholangiocarcinoma]

Cholangiocarcinoma is a kind of malignant tumor that originates from the bile duct epithelium. Due to its insidious nature, there is no effective early diagnosis and treatment method. Therefore, once it is detected, it is at an advanced stage and has a poor prognosis. Bile acid is the main component of bile, which acts on cholangiocytes through bile acid receptors and plays a key role in the development of cholangiocarcinoma. Gut microbiota can participate in the occurrence of cholangiocarcinoma by regulating bile acid metabolism. This review mainly focuses on the role of bile acid and bile acid receptors in the occurrence and development of cholangiocarcinoma and the impact of gut microbiota in it.

Novel potent IFN-γ-inducing CD8+ T cell epitopes conserved among diverse Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus strains

Studies of immune responses elicited by Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) vaccines have primarily focused on the characterization of neutralizing B cell and CD4+ T cell epitopes. Despite availability of vaccines for decades, BVDV prevalence in cattle remains largely unaffected. There is limited knowledge regarding the role of BVDV-specific CD8+ T cells in immune protection and indirect evidence suggests that they play a crucial role during BVDV infection. In this study, presence of BVDV-specific CD8+ T cells that are highly cross-reactive in cattle was demonstrated. Most importantly, novel potent IFN-γ-inducing CD8+ T cell epitopes were identified from different regions of BVDV polyprotein. Eight CD8+ T cell epitopes were identified from structural BVDV antigens: Erns, E1, and E2 glycoproteins. In addition, from nonstructural BVDV antigens: Npro, NS2-3, NS4A-B, and NS5A-B, twenty CD8+ T cell epitopes were identified. Majority of these IFN-γ-inducing CD8+ T cell epitopes were found to be highly conserved among more than two hundred strains from BVDV-1 and -2 genotypes. These conserved epitopes were also validated as cross-reactive since they induced high recall IFN-γ+ CD8+ T cell responses, ex vivo, in purified CD8+ T cells from BVDV-1- and -2-immunized cattle. Altogether, twenty-eight bovine MHC I-binding epitopes were identified from key BVDV antigens that can elicit broadly reactive CD8+ T cells against diverse BVDV strains. The data presented here will lay the groundwork for the development of a contemporary CD8+ T cell-based BVDV vaccine capable of addressing BVDV heterogeneity more effectively than current vaccines.

Novel Potent IFN-γ-Inducing CD8+ T Cell Epitopes Conserved among Diverse Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Strains

Studies of immune responses elicited by bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) vaccines have primarily focused on the characterization of neutralizing B cell and CD4⁺ T cell epitopes. Despite the availability of commercial vaccines for decades, BVDV prevalence in cattle has remained largely unaffected. There is limited knowledge regarding the role of BVDV-specific CD8⁺ T cells in immune protection, and indirect evidence suggests that they play a crucial role during BVDV infection. In this study, the presence of BVDV-specific CD8⁺ T cells that are highly cross-reactive in cattle was demonstrated. Most importantly, novel potent IFN-γ-inducing CD8⁺ T cell epitopes were identified from different regions of BVDV polyprotein. Eight CD8⁺ T cell epitopes were identified from the following structural BVDV Ags: E^rns, E1, and E2 glycoproteins. In addition, from nonstructural BVDV Ags N^pro, NS2-3, NS4A-B, and NS5A-B, 20 CD8⁺ T cell epitopes were identified. The majority of these IFN-γ-inducing CD8⁺ T cell epitopes were found to be highly conserved among more than 200 strains from BVDV-1 and -2 genotypes. These conserved epitopes were also validated as cross-reactive because they induced high recall IFN-γ⁺CD8⁺ T cell responses ex vivo in purified bovine CD8⁺ T cells isolated from BVDV-1- and -2-immunized cattle. Altogether, 28 bovine MHC class I-binding epitopes were identified from key BVDV Ags that can elicit broadly reactive CD8⁺ T cells against diverse BVDV strains. The data presented in this study will lay the groundwork for the development of a contemporary CD8⁺ T cell-based BVDV vaccine capable of addressing BVDV heterogeneity more effectively than current vaccines.

Suppression of microRNA-101 attenuates hypoxia-induced myocardial H9c2 cell injury by targeting DIMT1-Sp1/survivin pathway

The article "Suppression of microRNA-101 attenuates hypoxia-induced myocardial H9c2 cell injury by targeting DIMT1-Sp1/survivin pathway, by Z.-X. Guo, F.-Z. Zhou, W. Song, L.-L. Yu, W.-J. Yan, L.-H. Yin, H. Sang, H.-Y. Zhang, published in Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci 2018; 22 (20): 6965-6976-DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_201810_16167-PMID: 30402863" has been withdrawn from the authors due to some inaccuracies. The Publisher apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. https://www.europeanreview.org/article/16167.

Mosaic Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus Antigens Elicit Cross-Protective Immunity in Calves

Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus (BVDV) is an important pathogen that plays a significant role in initiating Bovine Respiratory Disease Complex (BRDC) in cattle. The disease causes multi-billion dollar losses globally due to high calf mortality and increased morbidity leading to heavy use of antibiotics. Current commercial vaccines provide limited cross-protection with several drawbacks such as safety, immunosuppression, potential reversion to virulence, and induction of neonatal pancytopenia. This study evaluates two prototype vaccines containing multiple rationally designed recombinant mosaic BVDV antigens for their potential to confer cross-protection against diverse BVDV strains. Genes encoding three novel mosaic antigens, designated E2¹²³, NS2-3¹, and NS2-3², were designed in silico and expressed in mammalian cells for the formulation of a prototype protein-based vaccine. The mosaic antigens contain highly conserved protective epitopes from BVDV-1a, -1b, and -2, and included unique neutralizing epitopes from disparate strains to broaden coverage. We tested immunogenicity and protective efficacy of Expi293^TM-expressed mosaic antigens (293F-E2¹²³, 293F-NS2-3¹, and 293F-NS2-3²), and baculovirus-expressed E2¹²³ (Bac-E2¹²³) mosaic antigen in calves. The Expi293^TM-expressed antigen cocktail induced robust BVDV-specific cross-reactive IFN-γ responses, broadly neutralizing antibodies, and following challenge with a BVDV-1b strain, the calves had significantly (p < 0.05) reduced viremia and clinical BVD disease compared to the calves vaccinated with a commercial killed vaccine. The Bac-E2¹²³ antigen was not as effective as the Expi293^TM-expressed antigen cocktail, but it protected calves from BVD disease better than the commercial killed vaccine. The findings support feasibility for development of a broadly protective subunit BVDV vaccine for safe and effective management of BRD.

An analysis of the variations and clinical applications of the lateral circumflex femoral artery

BACKGROUND

Identifying the arterial variation of the lateral circumflex femoral artery (LCFA) is a vital step in planning surgical and radiological approach. The aim of the study was to evaluate the variations and discuss the clinical correlates of the LCFA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty eight adult cadavers (male 45, female 13) with 115 usable sides were used to assess and classify the origin and branches of the LCFA. Also its external diameter, distance from mid-inguinal ligament to sites of origin from the profunda femoris artery or femoral arteries.

RESULTS

There were seven types of LCFA variations in this sample. We classified them as types A to G, of which type A was normal, that is, the one showing a single LCFA arising from the profunda femoris artery. Nearly 50.43% of the sample had type B-G variations, each having 13, 10, 23, 4, 4, and 3 cases, accounting for 11.30%, 8.70%, 20.00%, 3.48%, 3.48%, and 2.61%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

There are many variant types in the LCFA. To avoid iatrogenic injuries, clinicians must have a sound understanding of the variation types of this important blood vessel.

Progress Toward Development of Effective and Safe African Swine Fever Virus Vaccines

African swine fever is a major concern due to its negative impact on pork production in affected regions. Due to lack of treatment and a safe vaccine, it has been extremely difficult to control this devastating disease. The mechanisms of virus entry, replication within the host cells, immune evasion mechanisms, correlates of protection, and antigens that are effective at inducing host immune response, are now gradually being identified. This information is required for rational design of novel disease control strategies. Pigs which recover from infection with less virulent ASFV isolates can be protected from challenge with related virulent isolates. This strongly indicates that an effective vaccine against ASFV could be developed. Nonetheless, it is clear that effective immunity depends on both antibody and cellular immune responses. This review paper summarizes the key studies that have evaluated three major approaches for development of African Swine Fever virus vaccines. Recent immunization strategies have involved development and in vivo evaluation of live attenuated virus, and recombinant protein- and DNA-based and virus-vectored subunit vaccine candidates. The limitations of challenge models for evaluating ASFV vaccine candidates are also discussed.

The applied anatomy and clinical significance of the proximal, V1 segment of vertebral artery

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to probe the morphological features of the proximal segment (V1) of vertebral artery (VA) in a sample of Chinese cadavers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The origin, course and outer diameter at origin of the pre-vertebral part of the VAs were evaluated in 119 adult cadavers.

RESULTS

It was found that 94.12% of the VAs originated from the subclavian arteries, bilaterally. The variant origins were present in 5.88% of the cadavers and all originated directly from the arch of the aorta. All the variations were observed on the left side of male cadavers. The average outer diameters at origin of the normal and variation groups were 4.35 ± 1.00 mm and 4.82 ± ± 1.42 mm, respectively, p = 0.035. In the normal group, but not in the variation group, the average diameter in the males was significantly larger than that in the females (4.50 ± 0.99 mm, 3.92 ± 0.92 mm, respectively, p = 0.000). In addition, only 5 cadavers in the normal group had hypoplastic VAs (4.20%, 4 males, 3 right-sided). Vertebral artery dominance (VAD) was present in 91 (69 males) out of 112 cadavers and more common on the left (n = 48). In addition, 3 cadavers satisfied conditions for coexistence of VAD and vertebral artery hypoplasia. All 7 cadavers in the variation group exhibited VAD, which was more common on the right side (n = 5).

CONCLUSIONS

The morphologic variations and frequencies described above have implications for the early prevention, abnormal anatomy detection, accurate diagnosis, safe surgery and endovascular treatment of cardiovascular and neurological disease.

Suppression of microRNA-101 attenuates hypoxia-induced myocardial H9c2 cell injury by targeting DIMT1-Sp1/survivin pathway

OBJECTIVE

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small single-stranded RNAs in eukaryotic cells, which play important regulatory roles in the pathogenesis of various diseases. We aimed to investigate the effects of miRNA-101 (miR-101) on hypoxia-induced myocardial infarction (MI) cell injury model (myocardial H9c2 cell injury model). The possible target gene of miR-101 was also analyzed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

H9c2 cells were exposed to hypoxia treatment. Cell viability, migration, invasion, apoptosis and the expression of miR-101 were detected using CCK-8 assay, transwell assay, flow cytometer analysis, Western blotting and qRT-PCR, respectively. Then, the effects of miR-101 overexpression or suppression on the cell injury induced by hypoxia were assessed. Dual luciferase reporter assay was used to analyze the possible target gene of miR-101. Finally, the effects of dimethyladenosine transferase 1 homolog (DIMT1), the possible target gene of miR-101, on H9c2 cell injury were investigated.

RESULTS

Hypoxia significantly induced H9c2 cell injury. miR-101 was up-regulated after hypoxia induction. Hypoxia-induced cell injury was significantly reversed by miR-101 suppression and exacerbated by miR-101 overexpression. DIMT1 was a direct target gene of miR-101. Knockdown of DIMT1 markedly inhibited the protective effects of miR-101 suppression on hypoxia-induced cell injury by suppressing specific protein 1 (Sp1)/Survivin pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

We verified the critical roles of miR-101 in regulating myocardial cell injury induced by hypoxia. DIMT1-mediated the Sp1/Survivin pathway was also involved in this process. Our findings replenished the understanding of the regulatory roles of miRNAs in hypoxia-induced MI cell injury and provided new molecular target for therapy and diagnosis of MI.

Sirt1 mediates improvement in cognitive defects induced by focal cerebral ischemia following hyperbaric oxygen preconditioning in rats

Hyperbaric oxygen preconditioning (HBO-PC) has been proposed as a safe and practical approach for neuroprotection in ischemic stroke. However, it is not known whether HPO-PC can improve cognitive deficits induced by cerebral ischemia, and the mechanistic basis for any beneficial effects remains unclear. We addressed this in the present study using rats subjected to middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) as an ischemic stroke model following HBO-PC. Cognitive function and expression of phosphorylated neurofilament heavy polypeptide (pNF-H) and doublecortin (DCX) in the hippocampus were evaluated 14 days after reperfusion and after short interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of sirtuin1 (Sirt1). HBO-PC increased pNF-H and DCX expression and mitigated cognitive deficits in MCAO rats. However, these effects were abolished by Sirt1 knockdown. Our results suggest that HBO-PC can protect the brain from injury caused by ischemia-reperfusion and that Sirt1 is a potential molecular target for therapeutic approaches designed to minimize cognitive deficits caused by cerebral ischemia.

Subtypes of major depression: latent class analysis in depressed Han Chinese women

BACKGROUND

Despite substantial research, uncertainty remains about the clinical and etiological heterogeneity of major depression (MD). Can meaningful and valid subtypes be identified and would they be stable cross-culturally?

METHOD

Symptoms at their lifetime worst depressive episode were assessed at structured psychiatric interview in 6008 women of Han Chinese descent, age ⩾ 30 years, with recurrent DSM-IV MD. Latent class analysis (LCA) was performed in Mplus. RESULTS; Using the nine DSM-IV MD symptomatic A criteria, the 14 disaggregated DSM-IV criteria and all independently assessed depressive symptoms (n = 27), the best LCA model identified respectively three, four and six classes. A severe and non-suicidal class was seen in all solutions, as was a mild/moderate subtype. An atypical class emerged once bidirectional neurovegetative symptoms were included. The non-suicidal class demonstrated low levels of worthlessness/guilt and hopelessness. Patterns of co-morbidity, family history, personality, environmental precipitants, recurrence and body mass index (BMI) differed meaningfully across subtypes, with the atypical class standing out as particularly distinct.

CONCLUSIONS

MD is a clinically complex syndrome with several detectable subtypes with distinct clinical and demographic correlates. Three subtypes were most consistently identified in our analyses: severe, atypical and non-suicidal. Severe and atypical MD have been identified in multiple prior studies in samples of European ethnicity. Our non-suicidal subtype, with low levels of guilt and hopelessness, may represent a pathoplastic variant reflecting Chinese cultural influences.

The structure of the symptoms of major depression: exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis in depressed Han Chinese women

BACKGROUND

The symptoms of major depression (MD) are clinically diverse. Do they form coherent factors that might clarify the underlying nature of this important psychiatric syndrome?

METHOD

Symptoms at lifetime worst depressive episode were assessed at structured psychiatric interview in 6008 women of Han Chinese descent, age ⩾30 years with recurrent DSM-IV MD. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatoryfactor analysis (CFA) were performed in Mplus in random split-half samples.

RESULTS

The preliminary EFA results were consistently supported by the findings from CFA. Analyses of the nine DSM-IV MD symptomatic A criteria revealed two factors loading on: (i) general depressive symptoms; and (ii) guilt/suicidal ideation. Examining 14 disaggregated DSM-IV criteria revealed three factors reflecting: (i) weight/appetite disturbance; (ii) general depressive symptoms; and (iii) sleep disturbance. Using all symptoms (n = 27), we identified five factors that reflected: (i) weight/appetite symptoms; (ii) general retarded depressive symptoms; (iii) atypical vegetative symptoms; (iv) suicidality/hopelessness; and (v) symptoms of agitation and anxiety.

CONCLUSIONS

MD is a clinically complex syndrome with several underlying correlated symptom dimensions. In addition to a general depressive symptom factor, a complete picture must include factors reflecting typical/atypical vegetative symptoms, cognitive symptoms (hopelessness/suicidal ideation), and an agitated symptom factor characterized by anxiety, guilt, helplessness and irritability. Prior cross-cultural studies, factor analyses of MD in Western populations and empirical findings in this sample showing risk factor profiles similar to those seen in Western populations suggest that our results are likely to be broadly representative of the human depressive syndrome.

Agminated spitz nevi: case report and review of the literature

Spitz nevi are benign melanocytic lesions with many histologic similarities to malignant melanoma. A case of agminated Spitz nevi on a 2-year-old boy's left cheek is reported and 41 other cases of agminated Spitz nevi are reviewed. In this case, two biopsies were performed on two different-appearing lesions and the results of both biopsies showed Spitz nevi.

Manganese activates caspase-9-dependent apoptosis in human bronchial epithelial cells

Acute inhalation exposure to high levels of manganese (Mn) is associated with pulmonary edema and impaired function. The immune-mediated lung epithelium injury of Mn in vivo and in vitro experiments has been well characterized, whereas its apoptotic effect is not well defined. Our results show that human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells undergo caspase-9-mediated cell death in response to Mn. Loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), the formation of reactive oxygen species and release of cytochrome c were regulated during this process. In addition, decreasing c-Myc level and increasing of phosphorylated p53 (Ser 15) and WAF1/p21 were also taken part in Mn-mediated lung toxicity. Proteasome inhibitor MG132 could increase c-Myc protein in abundance. Taking together, our results demonstrate that caspase-9-dependent intrinsic pathway, the downregulation of c-Myc and the upregulation of p53 and phosphorylated p53 might be responsible for Mn-mediated apoptosis in 16HBE cells. Moreover, c-Myc decrease might be due to increased degradation through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway.

Hierarchical models facilitate spatial analysis of large data sets: a case study on invasive plant species in the northeastern United States

Many critical ecological issues require the analysis of large spatial point data sets - for example, modelling species distributions, abundance and spread from survey data. But modelling spatial relationships, especially in large point data sets, presents major computational challenges. We use a novel Bayesian hierarchical statistical approach, 'spatial predictive process' modelling, to predict the distribution of a major invasive plant species, Celastrus orbiculatus, in the northeastern USA. The model runs orders of magnitude faster than traditional geostatistical models on a large data set of c. 4000 points, and performs better than generalized linear models, generalized additive models and geographically weighted regression in cross-validation. We also use this approach to model simultaneously the distributions of a set of four major invasive species in a spatially explicit multivariate model. This multispecies analysis demonstrates that some pairs of species exhibit negative residual spatial covariation, suggesting potential competitive interaction or divergent responses to unmeasured factors.

Effects of Polymorphism of the β1 Adrenoreceptor and CYP2D6 on the Therapeutic Effects of Metoprolol

Metoprolol is a lipophilic β1 selective adrenergic receptor antagonist used in antihypertensive therapy. It is metabolized by the protein product of the cytochrome P450 2D6 ( CYP2D6) gene. Few studies have been performed on the association between the β1 adrenoreceptor, CYP2D6 polymorphism and blood pressure. The one reported here is a prospective, observational, clinical study in Chinese Han hypertensive patients on the combined influences of CYP2D6 and β1 adrenoreceptor polymorphisms on the therapeutic effects of metoprolol in 300 out-patients with essential hypertension. The same dose of metoprolol achieved different therapeutic effects in patients with different CYP2D6 and β1 adrenoreceptor polymorphisms. Additionally, different doses of metoprolol could achieve the same therapeutic effects in patients with different CYP2D6 and β1 adrenoreceptor polymorphisms. Knowledge of the combination of CYP2D6 and β1 adrenoreceptor polymorphisms may be used to guide antihypertensive therapy using β1 adrenoreceptor antagonists.

Abnormal changes of plasma acute phase proteins in schizophrenia and the relation between schizophrenia and haptoglobin (Hp) gene

In this study we focused on detecting schizophrenia related changes of plasma proteins using proteomic technology and examining the relation between schizophrenia and haptoglobin (Hp) genotype. We investigated plasma proteins from schizophrenic subjects (n = 42) and healthy controls (n = 46) by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) in combination with mass spectrometry. To further reveal the genetic relationship between acute phase proteins (APPs) and schizophrenia disease, we tested Hp alpha1/Hp alpha2 (Hp 1/2) polymorphism and two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of Hp, rs2070937 and rs5473, for associations with schizophrenia in the Chinese Han population. With the relatively high number of samples for 2-DE work, we found that four proteins in the family of positive APPs were all up-regulated in patients. In genetic association study, we found significant associations existing between schizophrenia and Hp polymorphisms, Hp 1/2 and rs2070937 variants. Schizophrenia is accompanied by both an altered expression of Hp protein and a different genotype distribution of Hp gene, demonstrating that Hp is associated with schizophrenia. The results from proteomic and genomic aspects both indicate that acute phase reaction is likely to be an aetiological agent in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, but not just an accompanying symptom. The positive APPs are schizophrenic related proteins, with the highly concordant results on four positive APPs.

MPZL1/PZR, a novel candidate predisposing schizophrenia in Han Chinese

The MPZL1/PZR gene has been mapped to 1q23.3, located in close proximity to a recognized schizophrenia susceptibility locus. Recently, the MPZL1/PZR gene has been found to be significantly upregulated in schizophrenia brain tissue and to play an important role in cell signaling, thus indicating that MPZL1/PZR could be a potential schizophrenia marker. To test this hypothesis, we selected three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for genotyping in 523 Han Chinese trios. We found that two individual SNPs were significant at the Bonferroni's corrected significance level P<0.017: rs3767444 (chi2=6.299, P=0.0121) and rs2051656 (chi2=9.856, P=0.0017). Haplotype transmission/disequilibrium tests revealed a significant association with the disease (global P-value=1.064 x 10(-6)), but no specific transmission distortions. Thus, we propose that the MPZL1/PZR gene may be important in the predisposition to schizophrenia among Han Chinese.

Loss of heterozygosity with acquisition of homozygous KIT-activating mutation promotes gastrointestinal stromal tumor progression

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Background: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) originate from interstitial cells of Cajal and represent the most common mesenchymal tumor of GI tract. The activating mutations of KIT and platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRA) have been demonstrated in 88% and 6% of GISTs respectively. Multiple genetic events are involved in tumor initiation and progression. Activation of an oncogene can result from a single hit of gain-of-function mutation, but two hits leading to loss of heterozygosity (LOH) are necessary for inactivation of a tumor suppressor gene for the initiation of neoplasia. Little is known about the significance and mechanism of LOH of oncogenes in tumor progression. The LOH of activating-oncogenes is not infrequent, i.e. in more than 8% of GIST. These GIST clones with LOH prevail and dominate, strongly suggestive of proliferative and metastatic advantages. However, the significance and mechanisms of LOH acquiring homozygous activating-oncogene mutation remain unknown. Methods: Genomic DNA and cDNA sequencing analysis of KIT, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), immunohistochemistry of GISTs clones, and 3D structural analysis of the mutated KIT. Results: Real-time genetic studies in GIST show initial development of overexpression of KIT without mutation, to coexistence of various heterozygous-activating mutations; eventually, one clone dominates. Comparisons within the same patient show that clonal evolution from heterozygous to LOH acquiring homozygous (diploid) KIT-activating mutation results in dominance of the latter, with augmented KIT signaling and doubling of mitotic figures. Using SNPs for allelotyping, we found that mitotic nondisjunction, rather than mitotic recombination, represents an important mechanism of the second hit. Conclusion: GIST clones with LOH acquiring homozygous KIT-activating mutation gain a selective advantage over the heterozygous counterpart. Mitotic nondisjunction, in addition to the commonly recognized mitotic recombination, is an important and perhaps the primary mechanism of LOH acquiring homozygous KIT-activating mutation during GIST progression.

No significant financial relationships to disclose.

Family-based association study of Epsin 4 and Schizophrenia

Recently, Pimm et al. identified Epsin 4 on chromosome 5q33 as a susceptibility gene for schizophrenia in the British population, based on linkage and association evidence. In Pimm's case-control study, both the single polymorphisms and the individual haplotypes at the 5' end of the gene showed genetic association with schizophrenia. Here, we report the first study evaluating the relevance of Epsin 4 and schizophrenia outside the British population. Markers showing positive results in the original work as well as two additional polymorphisms were genotyped in 308 Han Chinese family trios. Transmission disequilibrium analysis was used to test for association of single-locus markers and multi-locus haplotypes with schizophrenia. Although no individual marker was significant at the P=0.05 level, the haplotypes detected in our samples, different from those previously reported, showed strong evidence of association (most significant global P=0.0021). Our results indicate the presence of a locus near the 5' end of Epsin 4 conferring susceptibility to the disease and provide further support for Epsin 4 as an important potential contributor to genetic risk in schizophrenia.

Cervical lymphadenitis caused by Candida albicans

Cervical lymphadenitis caused by Candida albicans developed in an 8-year-old Chinese child. There was no evidence of disseminated infection. The infection apparently confined to a lymph node was interpreted as a stage of fungal invasion. The child showed lymphopenia with a proportionate decrease in T-helper and T-suppressor cells. The child was successfully treated intravenously with fluconazole.