S100PBP is regulated by mutated KRAS and plays a tumour suppressor role in pancreatic cancer

We have previously shown that expression of S100PBP, an S100P binding partner, gradually decreases during progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC). Here, we show that loss of S100PBP leads to oncogenic transformation of pancreatic cells; after deregulation of S100PBP expression, both in silico and in vitro analyses highlighted alterations of genes known to modulate cytoskeleton, cell motility and survival. Overexpression of S100P reduced S100PBP expression, while co-immunoprecipitation indicated the interaction of S100P with S100PBP-p53-ubiquitin protein complex, likely causing S100PBP degradation. The doxycycline-induced KrasG12D activation resulted in decreased S100PBP levels, while low-dose treatment with HDAC inhibitor MS-275 rescued its expression in both human and mouse PDAC cell lines. This indicates KrasG12D as an upstream epigenetic regulator of S100PBP. Finally, analysis of TCGA PanCancer Atlas PDAC datasets demonstrated poor prognosis in patients with high S100P and low S100PBP expression, suggesting that S100PBP is a novel tumour suppressor gene with potential clinical utility.

In situ spatiotemporal characterization and analysis of chemical reactions using an ATR-integrated microfluidic reactor

Determining kinetic reaction parameters with great detail has been of utmost importance in the field of chemical reaction engineering. However, commonly used experimental and computational methods however are unable to provide sufficiently resolved spatiotemporal information that can aid in the process of understanding these chemical reactions. With our work, we demonstrate the use of a custom designed single-bounce ATR-integrated microfluidic reactor to obtain spatiotemporal resolution for in situ monitoring of chemical reactions. Having a single-bounce ATR accessory allows us to individually address different sensing areas, thereby providing the ability to obtain spatially and temporally resolved information. To further enhance the spatial resolution, we utilize the benefits of synchrotron IR radiation with the smallest beam spot-size ∼150 μm. An on-flow modular microreactor additionally allows us to monitor the chemical reaction in situ, where the temporal characterization can be controlled with the operational flowrate. With a unique combination of experimental measurements and numerical simulations, we characterize and analyse a model SN2 reaction. For a chemical reaction between benzyl bromide (BB) and sodium azide (SA) to produce benzyl azide (BA), we successfully show the capability of our device to determine the diffusion coefficients of BB and SA as 0.367 ± 0.115 10-9 m2 s-1 and 1.17 ± 0.723 10-9 m2 s-1, respectively. Finally, with the above characteristics of our device, we also calculate a reaction rate of k = 0.0005 (m3s-1mol-1) for the given chemical reaction.

Urine biomarkers enable pancreatic cancer detection up to 2 years before diagnosis

The poor prognosis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is mainly attributed to late diagnosis. We assessed the predictive performance of our previously reported urine biomarker panel for earlier detection of PDAC (LYVE1, REG1B and TFF1) in prediagnostic samples, alone and in combination with plasma CA19-9. This nested case-control study included 99 PDAC cases with urine samples prospectively collected up to 5 years prior to PDAC diagnosis and 198 matched controls. The samples were obtained from the Shanghai Women's Health Study (SWHS), the Shanghai Men's Health Studies (SMHS) and the Southern Community Cohort Study (SCCS). The urine biomarkers were measured by ELISA. Plasma CA19-9 was quantified by Luminex. Multiple logistic regression and Wilcoxon rank-sum and Mann-Whitney test were used for analysis. The internal validation approach was applied and the validated AUC estimators are reported on. The algorithm of urinary protein panel, urine creatinine and age named PancRISK, displayed similar AUC as CA19-9 up to 1 year before PDAC diagnosis (AUC = 0.79); however, the combination enhanced the AUCs to 0.89, and showed good discriminative ability (AUC = 0.77) up to 2 years. The combination showed sensitivity (SN) of 72% at 90% specificity (SP), and SP of 59% at 90% SN up to 1 year and 60% SN with 80% SP and 53% SP with 80% SN up to 2 years before PDAC diagnosis. Adding the clinical information on BMI value resulted in the overall improvement in performance of the PancRISK score. When combined with CA19-9, the urinary panel reached a workable model for detecting PDAC cases up to 2 years prior to diagnosis.

Transfusion support for a woman with RHD*09.01.02 and the novel RHD*01W.161 allele in trans

According to recent work group recommendations, individuals with the serologic weak D phenotypes should be RHD genotyped and individuals with molecular weak D types 1, 2, 3, 4.0, or 4.1 should be treated as D+. We report an African American woman with a long-standing history of metrorrhagia, who presented for infertility evaluation. Blood grouping showed AB with a possible subgroup of A, based on mixed-field agglutination, and a serologic weak D phenotype. Results from routine red cell genotyping for the RHD gene was incongruent with the serologic RhCE phenotype. For the surgical procedure, the patient was hence scheduled to receive group AB, D- RBC transfusions. Subsequent molecular analysis identified the ABO*A2.01 and ABO*B.01 alleles for the ABO genotype and the novel RHD allele [NG_007494.1(RHD):c.611T>A] along with an RHD*09.01.02 allele for the RHD genotype. Using a panel of monoclonal anti-D reagents, we showed the novel RHD(I204K) allele to represent a serologic weak D phenotype, despite occurring as a compound heterozygote, designated RHD*weak D type 161 (RHD*01W.161). Individuals with a weak D type 4.2 allele are prone to anti-D immunization, while the immunization potential of novel RHD alleles is difficult to predict. For now, patients should be treated as D- in transfusion and pregnancy management, when they harbor a novel RHD allele along with any weak D allele other than weak D types 1, 2, 3, 4.0, or 4.1. This study exemplifies strategies for how and when a laboratory should proceed from routine genotyping to nucleotide sequencing before any decisions on transfusion practice is made.

First-episode psychosis: How long does it last? A review of evolution and trajectory

Study of first-episode psychosis (FEP), an episode of psychotic nature which manifests for the first time in an individual in the longitudinal continuum of his/her illness, has been study matter of research interest in recent years. A comprehensive review of the literature will help us understand the evolution and trajectory of this concept better. A literature review of available articles addressing the concept, phenomenology, evolution, identification, course, and outcome of FEP was done; the same was subsequently divided into broad topics for better clarity and analyzed. FEP constituted a clinical psychotic phenomenon with underlying significant heterogeneity in diagnosis, stability, course, and outcome. The study has attempted to view FEP both as horizontal spectrum across various diagnoses and longitudinally ranging from asymptomatic individual with unknown risk status to attenuated psychosis to multiple relapses/unremitting illness. Many risk and protective factors have been brought out with varying certainty ranging bio-psycho-social spectrum. Efforts have been made to calculate polygenic risk score based on genes involvement/sharing between various psychotic spectrum disorders; as well as biomarker panels to identify people at risk. FEP may prove to be an important concept to understand psychosis in general; without putting things into the diagnostic rubric. It may help understand multiple risk and protective factors for the course and outcome of psychotic illness and may clear the cloud to sharpen the evidence toward commonality and distinctiveness between various psychotic diagnoses in vogue for more comprehensive concept.

Transfusion support during childbirth for a woman with anti-U and the RHD*weak D type 4.0 allele

D- red blood cells (RBCs), always in short supply, and Rh immune globulin (RhIG) are not needed for patient care if D+ RBCs can safely be transfused. According to a recent work group recommendation, patients with the RHD*weak D type 4.0 allele can be considered D+. We report an African American woman who presented for delivery at the end of the third trimester, at which time anti-U and a serologic weak D phenotype were recognized, requiring U-, D- RBC units. We obtained 3 U- RBC units, including 1 D- unit. Later, the RHD*weak D type 4.0 allele was determined by RHD genotyping, only 6 days before delivery. The patient had an uneventful vaginal delivery of a D+ baby. No transfusion was needed for mother or baby. In this case, a pregnant woman with the RHD*weak D type 4.0 allele can safely be managed as D+, relaxing the unnecessary D- restriction for the limited U- RBC supply. The procured U-, D- RBC unit was frozen with 14 days of shelf-life remaining. To conserve D- RBC units, not limited to U-, for patients with a definite need, we recommend molecular analysis of a serologic weak D phenotype before a transfusion becomes imminent. The best time to resolve a serologic weak D phenotype with RHD genotyping is early in a pregnancy. Immunohematology 2021;37:1-4 .

D– red blood cells (RBCs), always in short supply, and Rh immune globulin (RhIG) are not needed for patient care if D+ RBCs can safely be transfused. According to a recent work group recommendation, patients with the RHD*weak D type 4.0 allele can be considered D+. We report an African American woman who presented for delivery at the end of the third trimester, at which time anti-U and a serologic weak D phenotype were recognized, requiring U–, D– RBC units. We obtained 3 U– RBC units, including 1 D– unit. Later, the RHD*weak D type 4.0 allele was determined by RHD genotyping, only 6 days before delivery. The patient had an uneventful vaginal delivery of a D+ baby. No transfusion was needed for mother or baby. In this case, a pregnant woman with the RHD*weak D type 4.0 allele can safely be managed as D+, relaxing the unnecessary D– restriction for the limited U– RBC supply. The procured U–, D– RBC unit was frozen with 14 days of shelf-life remaining. To conserve D– RBC units, not limited to U–, for patients with a definite need, we recommend molecular analysis of a serologic weak D phenotype before a transfusion becomes imminent. The best time to resolve a serologic weak D phenotype with RHD genotyping is early in a pregnancy. Immunohematology 2021;37:1–4 .

Short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy versus conventionally fractionated long-course chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer: randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The trial hypothesis was that, in a resource-constrained situation, short-course radiotherapy would improve treatment compliance compared with conventional chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced rectal cancer, without compromising oncological outcomes.

METHODS

In this open-label RCT, patients with cT3, cT4 or node-positive non-metastatic rectal cancer were allocated randomly to 5 × 5 Gy radiotherapy and two cycles of XELOX (arm A) or chemoradiotherapy with concurrent capecitabine (arm B), followed by total mesorectal excision in both arms. All patients received a further six cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy with the XELOX regimen. The primary endpoint was treatment compliance, defined as the ability to complete planned treatment, including neoadjuvant radiochemotherapy, surgery, and adjuvant chemotherapy to a dose of six cycles.

RESULTS

Of 162 allocated patients, 140 were eligible for analysis: 69 in arm A and 71 in arm B. Compliance with planned treatment (primary endpoint) was greater in arm A (63 versus 41 per cent; P = 0.005). The incidence of acute toxicities of neoadjuvant therapy was similar (haematological: 28 versus 32 per cent, P = 0.533; gastrointestinal: 14 versus 21 per cent, P = 0.305; grade III-IV: 2 versus 4 per cent, P = 1.000). Delays in radiotherapy were less common in arm A (9 versus 45 per cent; P < 0.001), and overall times for completion of neoadjuvant treatment were shorter (P < 0.001). The rates of R0 resection (87 versus 90 per cent; P = 0.554), sphincter preservation (32 versus 35 per cent; P = 0.708), pathological complete response (12 versus 10 per cent; P = 0.740), and overall tumour downstaging (75 versus 75 per cent; P = 0.920) were similar. Downstaging of the primary tumour (ypT) was more common in arm A (P = 0.044). There was no difference in postoperative complications between trial arms (P = 0.838).

CONCLUSION

Reduced treatment delays and a higher rate of compliance were observed with treatment for short-course radiotherapy with consolidation chemotherapy, with no difference in early oncological surgical outcomes. In time- and resource-constrained rectal cancer units in developing countries, short-course radiotherapy should be the standard of care.

Adult attention-deficit Hyperactivity disorder: From clinical reality toward conceptual clarity

There is ambiguity about the clinical picture and concept of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults. Relevant literature was extracted from various search engines, analyzed, and interpreted. Available literature suggests a significant prevalence of ADHD in the adult population affecting the quality of socio-occupational functioning. Inattentiveness was more commonly present than hyperactivity-impulsivity. Frequent comorbidities with other psychiatric disorders like anxiety disorders and substance use disorders were noted. Pharmacological management and psychotherapy have been found effective in its management. ADHD is a disorder across the lifespan and fairly prevalent among adults. Greater awareness and more research are required for a better understanding of Adult ADHD and its effective management.

Circulating miR-133b and miR-21: potential non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers of coronary artery disease

Background

While coronary artery disease (CAD) has become a major threat worldwide, the timely biomarker-based early diagnosis of CAD remains a major unmet clinical challenge.

Purpose

We aimed towards assessing the level of circulatory microRNAs as candidates of novel biomarkers in early diagnosis of CAD.

Methods

A total of 147 subjects were recruited from Delhi and surrounding regions which includes 78 subjects with angiographically proven CAD, 15 pre-atherosclerotic normal coronary artery (NCA) subjects and 54 healthy individuals. Quantitative real-time PCR assays were performed using total RNA isolated from plasma of CAD patients and healthy individuals in order to measure the relative expression profiles of circulating miR-133b and miR-21. The severity level of the disease in each individual was assessed on the basis of number of diseased vessels involved and extent of stenosis.

Results

MiR-133b was found to be significantly downregulated (p&lt;0.05) by 4.6 fold whereas miR-21 was significantly upregulated (p&lt;0.05) by ∼2 fold in plasma samples of CAD patients as compared to healthy individuals. Importantly, both the miRNAs showed an association with disease severity as miR-133b was downregulated by 8.45 fold in acute coronary syndrome (ACS), 3.38 fold in Stable angina (SA) and 2.08 fold in NCA. MiR-21 was upregulated by 2.46 fold in ACS, 1.90 fold in SA and 1.12 fold in NCA. Moreover, miR-133b could significantly differentiate subjects with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) from Non-STEMI. Both the miRNAs exhibited a noteworthy diagnostic potential as translated through an upstanding sensitivity and specificity. MiR-133b showed an area under the curve (AUC): 0.80 with 75.6% sensitivity and 76% specificity at recommended optimal cut-off point of 14.0 whereas, miR-21 showed and AUC value of 0.79 with 72.2% sensitivity and 69.4% specificity at optimal cut-off point of 5.59 as assessed by receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve analysis.

Conclusions

The reduced expression of miR-133b and elevated expression level of miR-21 in plasma suggest their significant role in the pathophysiology as well as their implication towards the individual's susceptibility in developing CAD. Thus, we conclude that these two circulating miRNAs could be possible candidates of non-invasive biomarkers in the early prediction and diagnosis of CAD.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Other. Main funding source(s): Department of Science and Technology, New Delhi, India; University Grant Commission (JRF/SRF Fellowship: Ref no. 22/12/2013(ii)EU-V

Role of various lifestyle and behavioral strategies in positive mental health across a preventive to therapeutic continuum

There is growing interest in lifestyle and behavioral strategies not only in prevention but also in the management of psychiatric morbidity. Available literature in this direction was accessed, and the role of various lifestyle and behavioral factors was explored. There is strong evidence of the role of good sleep, nutritious diet, exercise, social connectedness, enhanced self-esteem, sense of purpose in life, resilience, mindfulness, and environmental mastery in the promotion of mental well-being and prevention and management of psychiatric disorders. There is a significant scope of lifestyle and behavioral intervention in ensuring positive mental health spanning from preventive to therapeutic dimension.

Workplace based assessment: A review of available tools and their relevance

Workplace-based assessment (WPBA) appears to be a promising tool for more comprehensive assessment of the learners. Relevant literature in this direction was collated and analyzed for its relevance, salience, and merit. Many WPBA tools are being used by various educational institutions which spans across multiple domains and over the entire duration of the workplace learning. It caters to holistic assessment with structured measures, real-time feedback, and continuous professional development. It is being used more for formative assessment and has limited utility in summative assessment as on date. WPBA tools have promising prospect in bringing novelty, objectivity, and holistic approach in assessment.

Evaluation of Volumetric Doses of Organs at Risk in Carcinoma Cervix Patients with HDR Intracavitary Brachytherapy and Comparison of CT-based and Conventional Plans

Background:

Brachytherapy treatment planning in cervix carcinoma patients using two dimensional (2D) orthogonal images provides only point dose estimates while CT-based planning provides volumetric dose assessment helping in understanding the correlation between morbidity and the dose to organs at risk (OARs) and treatment volume.

Objective:

Aim of present study is to compare International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements Report 38 (ICRU 38) reference point doses to OARs with volumetric doses using 2D images and CT images in patients with cervical cancer.

Material and Methods:

In this prospective study, 20 patients with cervical cancer stages (IIB-IIIB) were planned for a brachytherapy dose of 7Gy per fraction for three fractions using 2D image-based treatment plan and CT-based plan. ICRU 38 points for bladder and rectum were identified on both 2D image-based plan and CT-based plan and doses (D_ICRU) at these points were compared to the minimum dose to 2cc volume (D_2cc) of bladder and rectum receiving the highest dose.

Results:

D_2cc bladder dose was 1.60 (±0.67) times more than D_ICRUb bladder dose whereas D_2cc rectum dose was 1.13±0.40 times D_ICRUr. Significant difference was found between D_ICRUb and D_2cc dose for bladder (p=.0.016) while no significant difference was seen between D_ICRUr and D_2cc dose for rectum (p=0.964).

Conclusion:

The study suggests that ICRU 38 point doses are not the true representation of maximum doses to OARs. CT-based treatment planning is more a reliable tool for OAR dose assessment than the conventional 2D radiograph-based plan.

Genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair genes and their association with cervical cancer

Background and objective: Carcinoma of cervix is the second most common cancer among women worldwide. The DNA repair network plays an important role in the maintenance of genetic stability, protection against DNA damage and carcinogenesis. Alterations in repair genes XRCC1, XRCC2 and XRCC3 and been reported in certain cancers. We hypothesised an association between XRCC1+399A/G, XRCC2+31467G/A and XRCC3+18067C/T polymorphisms and the risk of cervical cancer. Subjects and methods: This study included 525 subjects (265 controls and 260 cervical cancer cases). Genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Results: Women with GA and AA genotypes of XRCC1+399A/G showed 2.4-3.8 fold higher risk of cervical cancer (P = 0.001). The +399A* allele was significantly linked with cervical cancer (P = 0.002). However, XRCC2+31479G/A and XRCC3+18067C/T polymorphisms did not show any statistically significant associations. Conclusion: The XRCC1+399A/G SNP is linked with cervical cancer. We suggest that this variant can be utilized as a prognostic marker for determination of cervical cancer susceptibility.

The anti-psychotic drug pimozide is a novel chemotherapeutic for breast cancer

Pimozide, an antipsychotic drug of the diphenylbutylpiperidine class, has been shown to suppress cell growth of breast cancer cells in vitro. In this study we further explore the inhibitory effects of this molecule in cancer cells. We found that Pimozide inhibited cell proliferation in a dose- and time-dependent manner in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells and A549 lung cancer cells. Furthermore, we found that Pimozide also promoted apoptosis as demonstrated by cell cycle arrest and induction of double-strand DNA breaks but did not result in any effect in the non-transformed MCF10A breast cell line. In order to shed new lights into the molecular pathways affected by Pimozide, we show that Pimozide downregulated RAN GTPase and AKT at both protein and mRNA levels and inhibited the AKT signaling pathway in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Pimozide also inhibited the epithelial mesenchymal transition and cell migration and downregulated the expression of MMPs. Administration of Pimozide showed a potent in vivo antitumor activity in MDA-MB-231 xenograft animal model and reduced the number of lung metastases by blocking vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2. Furthermore, Pimozide inhibited myofibroblast formation as evaluated by the reduction in α-smooth muscle actin containing cells. Thus, Pimozide might inhibit tumor development by suppressing angiogenesis and by paracrine stimulation provided by host reactive stromal cells. These results demonstrate a novel in vitro and in vivo antitumor activity of Pimozide against breast and lung cancer cells and provide the proof of concept for a putative Pimozide as a novel approach for cancer therapy.

Impact of GSTM1, GSTT1 and GSTP1 genes polymorphisms on clinical toxicities and response to concomitant chemoradiotherapy in cervical cancer

BACKGROUND

Certain forms of chemoradiotherapy generate toxic reactive oxygen species, which may be ameliorated by antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione S-transferase (GST). Genetic polymorphisms of GST may predict treatment outcomes and can be used as genetic marker to screen patients before treatment. We hypothesised an effect of GST polymorphisms on the response and toxicities produced by chemoradiation therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

GST polymorphisms were determined by multiplex polymerase chain reaction and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in 227 women with cervical cancer receiving cisplatin based chemoradiotherapy. Treatment response and toxicities were evaluated by standard internationally recognised criteria (RECIST and RTOG).

RESULTS

Severe (grade 3-4) gastrointestinal and haematological toxicities were present in 22 (9.4%) and 16 (7.0%) patients, respectively. GSTM1 null, GSTT1 null and GSTP1 AG genotypes brought marginally better non-significant associations. In single locus analysis GSTP1 AG and GG was linked to greatest risk of severe (grade 3-4) gastrointestinal toxicity (OR = 3.12, P = 0.035 and OR = 6.99, P = 0.01, respectively). In gene-gene interaction analysis, GSTM1 null-GSTP1 GG showed 4.2-fold higher risk of severe gastrointestinal toxicity (P = 0.014). GSTT1 null-GSTP1 AG reached statistical significance with a 3.9-fold higher risk of high grade gastrointestinal toxicity (P = 0.038).

CONCLUSIONS

Although no significant links were found between GST polymorphism and treatment response, null genotypes of GSTM1, GSTT1 and 'G' allele of GSTP1 bring a higher risk of severe gastrointestinal toxicity due to chemoradiation therapy in cervical cancer.

ΔNp63γ/SRC/Slug Signaling Axis Promotes Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition in Squamous Cancers

Purpose: To investigate the regulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and its importance in tumor invasion.Experimental Design: We use a three-dimensional invasive organotypic raft culture model of human foreskin keratinocytes expressing the E6/E7 genes of the human papilloma virus-16, coupled with bioinformatic and IHC analysis of patient samples to investigate the role played by EMT in invasion and identify effectors and upstream regulatory pathways.Results: We identify SNAI2 (Slug) as a critical effector of EMT-activated downstream of TP63 overexpression in HNSCC. Splice-form-specific depletion and rescue experiments further identify the ΔNp63γ isoform as both necessary and sufficient to activate the SRC signaling axis and SNAI2-mediated EMT and invasion. Moreover, elevated SRC levels are associated with poor outcome in patients with HNSCC in The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset. Importantly, the effects on EMT and invasions and SNAI2 expression can be reversed by genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of SRC.Conclusions: Overexpression of ΔNp63γ modulates cell invasion by inducing targetable SRC-Slug-evoked EMT in HNSCC, which can be reversed by inhibitors of the SRC signaling. Clin Cancer Res; 24(16); 3917-27. ©2018 AACR.

Abstract 2018: Rescue of ΔNp63α inhibits urothelial cell invasion by attenuating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)

Background: Loss of the transcription factor, p63 is associated with poor prognosis in muscle-invasive bladder cancers. The current study aimed to investigate the tumor-suppressive role of p63 in urothelial cancers.

Methods: A 3-dimensional (3D) organotypic raft model of urothelial cancer was established by culturing human urothelial cancer cell lines (HT1376, T24) on human bladder fibroblast-embedded collagen-I. Control rafts contained normal primary human urothelial cells (HUC). Cells were also cultured as monolayers on collagen-I coated dishes before harvesting total RNA and protein for qPCR and Western blot analyses respectively.

Results: Non-invasive HUC and HT1376 had an epithelial phenotype, characterized by compact and cuboidal morphology whereas invasive T24 cells were elongated with a spindle morphology, typical of mesenchymal cells and indicative of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which is necessary for invasion. The number of invasive incidents in 3D rafts established with T24 cells was higher compared to those with HUC or HT1376 cells (N=3, p&lt;0.05). Consistent with this, the invasive cell line had reduced mRNA and protein expression of total p63 (N=3), a differentiation marker, and the epithelial marker E-cadherin (N=3), in addition to upregulated expression of the mesenchymal markers N-cadherin (N=3) and fibronectin (N=3) and pERK-Y204 (N=2) compared to the non-invasive cells.

Treatment of invasive T24 cells with histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (vorinostat (pan) or entinostat (HDAC1,3)) attenuated the number of invasive incidents (N=3, p&lt;0.05), and restored protein expression of total p63 (N=3) and E-cadherin (N=2) while normalizing pERK-Y204 (N=2 for T24). The tumor-suppressive properties of the ΔNp63α isoform were studied by adenoviral-mediated overexpression of ΔNp63α in T24 cells, which mimicked the effects of HDAC inhibitors and diminished EMT by rescuing E-cadherin expression while depleting fibronectin (N=2). Overexpression of ΔNp63α also reduced the number of invasive incidents in 3D models established with T24 cells (N=2).

Conclusion: Invasive T24 cells exhibited an EMT phenotype, which coincided with depleted p63 expression. Rescue of ΔNp63α expression by treatment with HDAC inhibitors or through experimental overexpression attenuated the EMT phenotype and cell invasion.

Citation Format: Kirtiman Srivastava, Victoria Smith, Eric A. Fernandez, Conor Breen, Karen D. McCloskey. Rescue of ΔNp63α inhibits urothelial cell invasion by attenuating epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2018.

Abstract 2330: CaV1.3 calcium channel expression in prostate cancer cells during androgen-deprivation conditions

Background Prostate cancer (PCa) remains one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in males in the western world. Despite efforts to reduce tumour burden through treatments including androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT), patients often relapse 2 years post-therapy due to emergence of castration-resistant disease. The importance of ion channels including calcium channels in cancer biology is increasingly recognized. CACNA1D encodes the calcium channel, CaV1.3, which is overexpressed in PCa biopsies. In addition to canonical ion transport, the c-terminal region of CaV1.3 may modulate gene expression. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the expression of CaV1.3 during PCa progression and explore the effects of calcium channel blockers. Methods A cell line panel comprising normal prostate epithelium (RWPE-1), androgen-sensitive PCa (LNCaP, VCaP) and castration-resistant PCa (C4-2B, DU145 and PC3) were used. LNCaP were cultured in charcoal-stripped serum-containing media to mimic ADT or with the anti-androgen enzalutamide (10μM) for 4-14 days. qPCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence imaging were performed. Cell viability assays were performed in the absence/presence of ADT, enzalutamide and the CaV1.3 blocker nifedipine (1μM). Apoptosis was measured with flow cytometry in cells stained with Annexin V/Propidium Iodide (AV/PI). Results CACNA1D mRNA had higher expression in LNCaP, VCaP and C4-2B vs. RWPE-1 (p≤0.05; N=3). Western blotting/densitometry showed higher protein expression of CaV1.3 in LNCaP, VCaP and C4-2B relative to RWPE-1 (P≤0.05; N=3). Immunofluorescence indicated cytoplasmic and perinuclear localisation of CaV1.3 in the majority of cell lines and diffuse cytoplasmic staining in VCaP (N=2). ADT and enzalutamide-treated LNCaP displayed time-dependent increased CACNA1D expression over 14 days however, CaV1.3 protein expression peaked at 4 days (N=3). Cell viability assays of LNCaP treated with ADT or enzalutamide (4 days) showed significant reduction in viability when nifedipine was combined with the treatment (N=3; P≤0.05). Similarly, increased % of apoptotic LNCaP cells were observed when nifedipine was added to treated LNCaP vs. ADT or enzalutamide alone (N=2). Conclusion CaV1.3 expression is differentially expressed in cells lines modelling PCa progression and enhanced during ADT. Blockade of CaV1.3 in combination with ADT treatments further reduced cell viability and increased the apoptotic population.

Citation Format: Niamh McKerr, Conor Breen, Kirtiman Srivastava, Ian G. Mills, Karen D. McCloskey. CaV1.3 calcium channel expression in prostate cancer cells during androgen-deprivation conditions [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2018; 2018 Apr 14-18; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 2330.

Achieving selectivity for copper over zinc with luminescent terbium probes bearing phenanthridine antennas

A family of terbium probes was synthesized and evaluated for the luminescence detection of copper and zinc in water at neutral pH. Each probe incorporates a terbium ion chelated by a macrocyclic polyaminocarboxylate and conjugated to either one, two, or three phenanthridine antennas via a diamine linker. All three probes, Tb-1Phen, Tb-2Phen, and Tb-3Phen, exhibit similar responses toward copper and zinc. In each case, the terbium-centered time-gated phosphorescence decreases upon binding either Cu^I or Cu^II but not upon addition of Zn^II. The phosphorescence of Tb-2Phen is also not significantly affected by other metal ions including Mg^II, Ca^II, Mn^II, Fe^II, Ni^II, Cd^II, and Hg^II. Tb-1Phen, on the other hand, responds weakly to Mn^II, Fe^II and Ni^II. The lack of affinity of each probe for Zn^II was further confirmed by competition experiments with Cu^I and Cu^II. Notably, whereas the terbium-centered emission of each probe is quenched upon copper coordination, the phenanthridine-centered luminescence emission is not. As such, each probe functions as a ratiometric probe for the selective detection of copper over zinc. Theoretical calculations further demonstrate that the turn off response of the probe is due to an increase in the distance separating the lanthanide ion from its phenanthridine antennas upon coordination of copper, which in turn decreases the efficiency of terbium sensitization by the phenanthridines.

Complete on/off responsive ParaCEST MRI contrast agents for copper and zinc

Two thulium-based paraCEST contrast agents enable detection and imaging of copper and zinc by MRI with a complete on/off response.

Dual effects of radiation bystander signaling in urothelial cancer: purinergic-activation of apoptosis attenuates survival of urothelial cancer and normal urothelial cells

Radiation therapy (RT) delivers tumour kill, directly and often via bystander mechanisms. Bladder toxicity is a dose limiting constraint in pelvic RT, manifested as radiation cystitis and urinary symptoms. We aimed to investigate the impact of radiation-induced bystander signaling on normal/cancer urothelial cells. Human urothelial cancer cells T24, HT1376 and normal urothelial cells HUC, SV-HUC were used. Cells were irradiated and studied directly, or conditioned medium from irradiated cells (CM) was transferred to naïve, cells. T24 or SV-HUC cells in the shielded half of irradiated flasks had increased numbers of DNA damage foci vs non-irradiated cells. A physical barrier blocked this response, indicating release of transmitters from irradiated cells. Clonogenic survival of shielded T24 or SV-HUC was also reduced; a physical barrier prevented this phenomenon. CM-transfer increased pro-apoptotic caspase-3 activity, increased cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP expression and reduced survival protein XIAP expression. This effect was mimicked by ATP. ATP or CM evoked suramin-sensitive Ca²⁺-signals. Irradiation increased [ATP] in CM from T24. The CM-inhibitory effect on T24 clonogenic survival was blocked by apyrase, or mimicked by ATP. We conclude that radiation-induced bystander signaling enhances urothelial cancer cell killing via activation of purinergic pro-apoptotic pathways. This benefit is accompanied by normal urothelial damage indicating RT bladder toxicity is also bystander-mediated.

p63 drives invasion in keratinocytes expressing HPV16 E6/E7 genes through regulation of Src-FAK signalling

Using microarray information from oro-pharyngeal data sets and results from primary human foreskin keratinocytes (HFK) expressing Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)-16 E6/E7 proteins, we show that p63 expression regulates signalling molecules which initiate cell migration such as Src and focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and induce invasion in 3D-organotypic rafts; a phenotype that can be reversed by depletion of p63. Knockdown of Src or FAK in the invasive cells restored focal adhesion protein paxillin at cell periphery and impaired the cell migration. In addition, specific inhibition of FAK (PF573228) or Src (dasatinib) activities mitigated invasion and attenuated the expression/activity of matrix metalloproteinase 14 (MMP14), a pivotal MMP in the MMP activation cascade. Expression of constitutively active Src in non-invasive HFK expressing E6/E7 proteins upregulated the activity of c-Jun and MMP14, and induced invasion in rafts. Depletion of Src, FAK or AKT in the invasive cells normalised the expression/activity of c-Jun and MMP14, thus implicating the Src-FAK/AKT/AP-1 signalling in MMP14-mediated extra-cellular matrix remodelling. Up-regulation of Src, AP-1, MMP14 and p63 expression was confirmed in oro-pharyngeal cancer. Since p63 transcriptionally regulated expression of many of the genes in this signalling pathway, it suggests that it has a central role in cancer progression.

Abstract 3354: Histone deacetylase-1 promotes urothelial cell migration and invasion by modulating p63-pMLC2 signaling

Background: Altered expression of histone deacetylases (HDAC) and p63 transcription factor are associated with poor prognosis in invasive urothelial tumors. The current study focused on HDAC-evoked epigenetic modification of p63 and its downstream effects.

Methods: Primary human urothelial cells (HUC) and urothelial cancer cell lines (HT1376, T24, TCCSUP) were cultured either on human bladder fibroblast-embedded collagen-I to establish 3D-organotypic rafts or as 2D-monolayers. Scratch wound assay was used to study the rate of cell migration before studying the differential mRNA and protein expressions of HDAC1,2,3, p63, p21, p27, Rho-kinase1 (ROCK1), 14-3-3 eta and myosin light chain-2 (MLC2).

Results: T24 and TCCSUP cells exhibited invasive incidents on 3D-organotypic rafts, which coincided with their enhanced cell migration capabilities. qPCR and Western blotting analysis demonstrated enhanced expression of HDAC1, HDAC3, p27, p-p27-Thr157 and 14-3-3 eta alongside depleted levels of p63, ROCK1, pMLC2-Ser19, pMLC2-Thr18-Ser19 and p21 in invasive cells compared to normal (N=5, p&lt;0.05). These results coincided with the loss of stress fiber formations visualized by immunofluorescence detection of F-actin in invasive cells indicating that cytoskeletal reorganization may be pivotal for cell migration. Treatment with HDAC inhibitors (vorinostat (pan) and entinostat (HDAC1, 3)) attenuated the number of invasive incidents in T24 and TCCSUP cells, restored expression of p63, p21, pMLC2-Ser19, pMLC2-Thr18-Ser19 (N=5, p&lt;0.05), and normalized expression of 14-3-3 eta and p-p27-Thr157. Reappearance of stress fiber formations traversing across the cell after HDAC inhibitor treatments was supportive of these results, while nuclear enrichment of p27 indicated its enhanced cytoplasm-to-nuclear trafficking. Transient knockdown of HDAC1 in the invasive population mimicked the effect of HDAC inhibitors (N=5, p&lt;0.05), while successive depletion of p63 appeared to abolish the effects of HDAC1 knockdown by upregulating 14-3-3 eta and depleting ROCK1 expression, respectively.

Conclusions: Inhibition of HDAC1 activity attenuates urothelial cell migration and invasion by restoring the expression of p63 which, (a) upregulates the expression and activity of ROCK1, and (b) suppresses the expression of 14-3-3 eta, thereby alleviating the cytoplasmic p27 levels and facilitating the pMLC2-mediated cytoskeletal remodeling. These findings provide further support and mechanistic evidence for the potential use of HDAC inhibitors to treat invasive/poor-prognosis bladder cancer.

Citation Format: Kirtiman Srivastava, Conor Breen, Karen McCloskey. Histone deacetylase-1 promotes urothelial cell migration and invasion by modulating p63-pMLC2 signaling [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3354. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-3354

A cohort study of vulvar cancer over a period of 10 years and review of literature

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to study the risk factors, management protocols, and the outcome of vulvar cancer cases over a period of 10 years in a tertiary care hospital.

METHODOLOGY

It is a retrospective cohort study. The hospital records of 41 patients with histologically proven vulvar cancer were studied from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Department of Radiotherapy (RT). The presence of risk factors, stage of disease, treatment modalities used, and disease outcomes in terms of survival were studied. The data collected were analyzed and compared with the published literature.

RESULTS

The mean age for the diagnosis of vulvar cancer was 52 years and the peak incidence was seen in the age group of 50-70 years. Incidence was significantly more in multiparous (P = 0.001) and postmenopausal women (P = 0.007). An average of 4.1 cases were seen per year. Nearly, 97.56% of the cases were squamous cell carcinomas. Twenty cases belonged to the early stage of the disease (Stage I and II) whereas 21 cases had advanced disease (Stage III and IV). Nearly, 48.78% of the cases were primarily treated with surgery, 26.83% with RT, 7.3% with chemotherapy, and 17.07% with combined chemoradiation. Seventy-eight percent of the surgically treated cases had a mean survival of 5 years. Mean survival of 1 year was recorded in advanced disease cases. Limitation of the study was poor follow-up after treatment.

CONCLUSION

Incidence of vulvar cancer is significantly high in multiparous and postmenopausal women. Conservative surgical treatment is the best option in the early stage of the disease (Stage I and II) and gives high survival rates whereas advanced disease treated with chemoradiation has a poor survival.

Post-translationally modified human lens crystallin fragments show aggregation in vitro

BACKGROUND

Crystallin fragments are known to aggregate and cross-link that lead to cataract development. This study has been focused on determination of post-translational modifications (PTMs) of human lens crystallin fragments, and their aggregation properties.

METHODS

Four crystallin fragments-containing fractions (Fraction I [∼3.5 kDa species], Fraction II [∼3.5-7 kDa species], Fraction III [∼7-10 kDa species] and Fraction IV [>10-18 kDa species]), and water soluble high molecular weight (WS-HMW) protein fraction were isolated from water soluble (WS) protein fraction of human lenses of 50-70 year old-donors. The crystallin fragments of the Fractions I-IV were separated by two-dimensional (2D)-gel electrophoresis followed by analysis of their gel-spots by mass spectrometry. The Fractions I-IV were examined for their molecular mass, particle-diameters, amyloid fibril formation, and for their aggregation by themselves and with WS-HMW proteins.

RESULTS

Crystallin fragments in Fractions I-IV were derived from α-, β- and γ-crystallins, and their 2D-gel separated spots contained multiple crystallins with PTMs such as oxidation, deamidation, methylation and acetylation. Crystallin fragments from all the four fractions exhibited self-aggregated complexes ranging in M_r from 5.5×10⁵ to 1.0×10⁸ Da, with diameters of 10-28 nm, and amyloid fibril-like formation, and aggregation with WS-HMW proteins.

CONCLUSION

The crystallin fragments exhibited several PTMs, and were capable of forming aggregated species by themselves and with WS-HMW proteins, suggesting their potential role in aggregation process during cataract development.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

Crystallin fragments play a major role in human cataract development.

Risk factors for hemorrhagic cystitis in pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients

BACKGROUND

Hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) results in significant morbidity among hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. Several potential causes for HC have been postulated, including viral infection, but definitive evidence is lacking, particularly in pediatric HSCT patients.

METHODS

Ninety pediatric HSCT recipients were prospectively tested on a weekly basis for adenovirus (ADV) and BK virus (BKV) by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction in blood and urine samples. Results were correlated with the occurrence of grade II-IV HC. The odds ratio (OR) of HC (95% confidence interval) for BKV ≥1 × 10(9) copies/mL of urine was 7.39 (1.52, 35.99), with a P-value of 0.013. Those with acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) also had higher odds of developing HC, with an OR of 5.34. Given a 20% prevalence rate of HC, positive and negative predictive values of 29% and 95% were seen with a cutoff of 10(9) copies/mL.

RESULTS

BK viremia did not reach significance as a risk factor for development of HC (P = 0.06). Only 8 patients showed ADV viruria and 7 showed ADV viremia; all had low viral loads and 4 had no evidence of HC.

CONCLUSION

HC in pediatric HSCT is correlated most strongly to elevated urinary viral load of BKV and to aGVHD, but less strongly to BK viremia.

The study of primary psychotic disorders with concurrent substance abuse in terms of their diagnostic stability

BACKGROUND

Co-morbid substance use is common among individuals presenting with symptoms of psychosis. There is a paucity of research in this area.

AIM

To study the longitudinal follow-up of patients over 1-year of first episode psychosis with concurrent substance use in terms of their diagnostic stability.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty patients having at least one symptom of psychosis at first admission at a General Hospital Psychiatric Unit along with concurrent substance abuse were included and followed up for 1-year. International Classification of Disease-10, diagnostic criteria were used for diagnosis. Semi-structured sociodemographic performa to assess the sociodemographic profile. Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale and Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test as rating scales were used for the assessment at 6 and 12 months.

RESULTS

Of 50 patients, 31 patients who had a diagnosis of primary psychosis retained their diagnosis at follow-up. The mean age of cases in substance-induced psychosis group was 37.47 years, which was significantly higher than in primary psychosis group at 31.52 years. However, 7 patients of the substance-induced psychosis group required a change in diagnosis to primary psychosis group. The primary psychosis group patients were significantly younger, less educated, had less family support, had greater family mental illness, had more severe symptoms, and less hallucinations.

CONCLUSION

The present study is a forerunner in this area. Salient differences indicated in the study can help in differentiating the diagnosis and in the management of cases. This is particularly relevant in the management setting and for long-term intervention purpose.

A case of Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome

Gilles de la Tourette's syndrome is an uncommon illness associated with repetitive un-voluntary abnormal movements and utterance. It is often associated with other psychiatric morbidities. Management requires awareness of this uncommon illness, keen observation, relevant evaluation, and combination of pharmacology and psychotherapy for an optimal outcome. This case is brought out here for florid presentation and nuances of management.

Influenza A infection enhances antigen-induced airway inflammation and hyperresponsiveness in young but not aged mice

BACKGROUND

Although morbidity and mortality rates from asthma are highest in patients > 65 years of age, the effect of older age on airway inflammation in asthma is not well established.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate age-related differences in the promotion of allergic inflammation after influenza A viral respiratory infection on antigen-specific IgE production, antigen-induced airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness in mice.

METHODS

To accomplish this objective, the following model system was used. Young (6 week) and aged (18 months) BALB/c mice were first infected with a non-lethal dose of influenza virus A (H/HKx31). Mice were then ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized during the acute infection (3-days post inoculation) and then chronically underwent challenge to the airways with OVA. Forty-eight hours after the final OVA challenge, airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), bronchoalveolar fluid (BALF) cellular and cytokine profile, antigen-specific IgE and IgG1, and lung tissue inflammation were measured.

RESULTS

Age-specific differences were noted on the effect of a viral infection, allergic sensitization, airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness. Serum OVA-specific IgE was significantly increased in only the aged mice infected with influenza virus. Despite greater morbidity (e.g. weight loss and sickness scores) during the acute infection in the 18-month old mice that were OVA-sensitized, there was little effect on the AHR and BALF cellular differential. In contrast, BALF neutrophils and AHR increased, but eosinophils decreased in 6-week mice that were OVA-sensitized during an acute influenza infection.

CONCLUSION

With increased age in a mouse model, viral infection prior to antigen sensitization affects the airway and systemic allergic response differently. These differences may reflect distinct phenotypic features of allergic inflammation in older patients with asthma.

Genetic analysis to identify good combiners for ToLCV resistance and yield components in tomato using interspecific hybridization

The interspecific hybridization for tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) resistance was carried out among 10 genetically diverse tomato genotypes (diversified by 50 SSR markers). Among the 10 parents, four susceptible cultivars of Solanum lycopersicum were crossed with six resistant wilds, such as S. pimpinellifolium, S. habrochaites, S. chemielewskii, S. ceraseforme, S. peruvianum and S. chilense in a line x tester mating design. All the 24 hybrids and their parents were grown in the field and glasshouse conditions to determine the general-combining abilities (GCA) and specific-combining abilities (SCA). The variances due to SCA and GCA showed both additive and nonadditive gene effects. Based on GCA estimates, EC-520061 and WIR-5032 were good general combiners while based on SCA estimates, PBC x EC-520061 and PBC x EC-521080 were best specific combiners for coefficient of infection and fruit yield per plant in both the environments. These lines could be selected and utilized in ToLCV resistance and high yield breeding programme for improving the traits.

Origin of anomalous slip in tungsten

Low-temperature deformation of body-centered cubic metals shows a significant amount of plastic slip on planes with low shear stresses, a phenomenon called anomalous slip. Despite progress in atomistic modeling of the consequences of complex stress states on dislocation mobility, the phenomenon of anomalous slip remained elusive. Using in situ Laue microdiffraction and discrete dislocation dynamics in micrometer sized tungsten single crystals, we demonstrate the occurrence of significant anomalous slip. It occurs as a consequence of cross kinks, topological configurations generated by prior dislocation interactions. This clearly identifies anomalous slip as a multidislocation process and not a property of isolated dislocations. The cross-kink mechanism also explains the ambiguous reporting of anomalous slip traces in the past and directs us to ways of including anomalous slip in continuum crystal plasticity formulations.

Attenuation of urokinase activity during experimental ischaemia protects the cerebral barrier from damage through regulation of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and NAD(P)H oxidase

Ischaemic injury impairs the integrity of the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In this study, we investigated the molecular causes of this defect with regard to the putative correlations among NAD(P)H oxidase, plasminogen-plasmin system components, and matrix metalloproteinases. Hence, the activities of NAD(P)H oxidase, matrix metalloproteinase-2, urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA), and tissue-type plasminogen activator (tPA), and superoxide anion levels, were assessed in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) exposed to oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) alone or OGD followed by reperfusion (OGD + R). The integrity of an in vitro model of BBB comprising HBMECs and astrocytes was studied by measuring transendothelial electrical resistance and the paracellular flux of albumin. OGD with or without reperfusion (OGD ± R) radically perturbed barrier function while concurrently enhancing uPA, tPA and NAD(P)H oxidase activities and superoxide anion release in HBMECs. Pharmacological inactivation of NAD(P)H oxidase attenuated OGD ± R-mediated BBB damage through modulation of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and tPA, but not uPA activity. Overactivation of NAD(P)H oxidase in HBMECs via cDNA electroporation of its p22-phox subunit confirmed the involvement of tPA in oxidase-mediated BBB disruption. Interestingly, blockade of uPA or uPA receptor preserved normal BBB function by neutralizing both NAD(P)H oxidase and matrix metalloproteinase-2 activities. Hence, selective targeting of uPA after ischaemic strokes may protect cerebral barrier integrity and function by concomitantly attenuating basement membrane degradation and oxidative stress.

Inhibition of Rho-kinase protects cerebral barrier from ischaemia-evoked injury through modulations of endothelial cell oxidative stress and tight junctions

Ischaemic strokes evoke blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption and oedema formation through a series of mechanisms involving Rho-kinase activation. Using an animal model of human focal cerebral ischaemia, this study assessed and confirmed the therapeutic potential of Rho-kinase inhibition during the acute phase of stroke by displaying significantly improved functional outcome and reduced cerebral lesion and oedema volumes in fasudil- versus vehicle-treated animals. Analyses of ipsilateral and contralateral brain samples obtained from mice treated with vehicle or fasudil at the onset of reperfusion plus 4 h post-ischaemia or 4 h post-ischaemia alone revealed these benefits to be independent of changes in the activity and expressions of oxidative stress- and tight junction-related parameters. However, closer scrutiny of the same parameters in brain microvascular endothelial cells subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation ± reperfusion revealed marked increases in prooxidant NADPH oxidase enzyme activity, superoxide anion release and in expressions of antioxidant enzyme catalase and tight junction protein claudin-5. Cotreatment of cells with Y-27632 prevented all of these changes and protected in vitro barrier integrity and function. These findings suggest that inhibition of Rho-kinase after acute ischaemic attacks improves cerebral integrity and function through regulation of endothelial cell oxidative stress and reorganization of intercellular junctions. Inhibition of Rho-kinase (ROCK) activity in a mouse model of human ischaemic stroke significantly improved functional outcome while reducing cerebral lesion and oedema volumes compared to vehicle-treated counterparts. Studies conducted with brain microvascular endothelial cells exposed to OGD ± R in the presence of Y-27632 revealed restoration of intercellular junctions and suppression of prooxidant NADPH oxidase activity as important factors in ROCK inhibition-mediated BBB protection.

miR-542-3p suppresses osteoblast cell proliferation and differentiation, targets BMP-7 signaling and inhibits bone formation

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that interfere with translation of specific target mRNAs and thereby regulate diverse biological processes. Recent studies have suggested that miRNAs might have a role in osteoblast differentiation and bone formation. Here, we show that miR-542-3p, a well-characterized tumor suppressor whose downregulation is tightly associated with tumor progression via C-src-related oncogenic pathways, inhibits osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. miRNA array profiling in Medicarpin (a pterocarpan with proven bone-forming effects) induced mice calvarial osteoblast cells and further validation by quantitative real-time PCR revealed that miR-542-3p was downregulated during osteoblast differentiation. Over-expression of miR-542-3p inhibited osteoblast differentiation, whereas inhibition of miR-542-3p function by anti-miR-542-3p promoted expression of osteoblast-specific genes, alkaline phosphatase activity and matrix mineralization. Target prediction analysis tools and experimental validation by luciferase 3′ UTR reporter assay identified BMP-7 (bone morphogenetic protein 7) as a direct target of miR-542-3p. It was seen that over-expression of miR-542-3p leads to repression of BMP-7 and inhibition of BMP-7/PI3K- survivin signaling. This strongly suggests that miR-542-3p suppresses osteogenic differentiation and promotes osteoblast apoptosis by repressing BMP-7 and its downstream signaling. Furthermore, silencing of miR-542-3p led to increased bone formation, bone strength and improved trabecular microarchitecture in sham and ovariectomized (Ovx) mice. Although miR-542-3p is known to be a tumor repressor, we have identified second complementary function of miR-542-3p where it inhibits BMP-7-mediated osteogenesis. Our findings suggest that pharmacological inhibition of miR-542-3p by anti-miR-542-3p could represent a therapeutic strategy for enhancing bone formation in vivo.