Efectos de amitraz más Parapoxvirus ovis sobre EGF, VEGF, IGF-1 e IGF-2 en la demodicosis generalizada canina

Objetivo. El propósito del estudio es investigar el efecto del tratamiento con amitraz más-Parapoxvirus ovis (IPPVO) sobre las concentraciones séricas y las expresiones cutáneas del factor de crecimiento insulínico (IGF) -1 y -2, factor de crecimiento epidérmico (EGF), vascular factor de crecimiento endotelial (VEGF), en perros que padecen demodicosis generalizada (GD). Materiales y métodos. A los perros afectados por GD se les inyectó 1 mL de IPPVO los días 0, 2 y 9 por vía subcutánea además del tratamiento con amitraz (0,025%) dos veces por semana durante 80 días. Las concentraciones de IGF-1, IGF-2, EGF y VEGF en suero sanguíneo se midieron mediante un kit de ensayo inmunoabsorbente ligado a enzimas específico para caninos. Las expresiones de EGF, VEGF, IGF-1 e IGF-2 en muestras de biopsia de piel se examinaron inmunohistoquímicamente. Resultados. Después del tratamiento de los perros con amitraz más-IPPVO en GD, demostramos una reducción significativa tanto en las concentraciones circulantes como en las expresiones cutáneas de EGF, VEGF, IGF-1 e IGF-2, que tienen un papel en la preservación de la integridad de la piel y la herida. curación. Conclusiones. Los resultados de este estudio sugieren que IGF-1, IGF-2 EGF y VEGF tienen un papel crucial en la progresión de la GD en perros. Se cree que los hallazgos de este estudio contribuirán al desarrollo de nuevas estrategias para el tratamiento de la GD, que es un problema de salud importante para los perros.

Apigenin alleviates neuroinflammation in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of apigenin on inflammatory response in brain tissue in Parkinson's mouse model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Parkinson's disease model was induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Sixty 8-10-weeks-old male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into four groups control, Parkinson, prophylaxis, and treatment. Control (0.9% NaCl 0.5 ml, 10 days, i.p.), Parkinson (25 mg/kg MPTP, 5 days, i.p.), prophylaxis (50 mg/kg apigenin, 5 days + 25 mg/kg MPTP, 5 days, i.p.), and treatment (25 mg/kg MPTP, 5 days + 50 mg/kg apigenin, 5 days). The expressions and protein levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1-beta (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-10, and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) were determined using immunohistochemistry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent analysis.

RESULTS

Apigenin administration attenuated MPTP-induced histopathological changes in brain tissue. Furthermore, apigenin reversed the changes in expressions and concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TGF-β.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that apigenin could be used as a neuroprotective option to attenuate neuroinflammation in Parkinson's disease.

Nobiletin attenuates inflammation via modulating proinflammatory and antiinflammatory cytokine expressions in an autoimmune encephalomyelitis mouse model

The aim of this study is to investigate the potential preventive and therapeutic effects of nobiletin by evaluating the expression of cytokines associated with inflammatory reactions in an autoimmune encephalomyelitis mouse model. A total of 60 male C57BL/6 mice aged between 8 and 10 weeks were used. Mice were divided into six groups (n = 10 mice per group): control, EAE, low-prophylaxis, high-prophylaxis, low-treatment and high-treatment. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) was induced by myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) and pertussis toxin. Nobiletin was administered in low (25 mg/kg) and high (50 mg/kg) doses, intraperitoneally. The prophylactic and therapeutic effects of nobiletin on brain tissue and spinal cord were evaluated by expression of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interferon gamma (IFNγ), IL-6, IL-10 and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) using immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Prophylactic and therapeutic use of nobiletin inhibited EAE-induced increase of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 activities to alleviate inflammatory response in brain and spinal cord. Moreover, nobiletin supplement dramatically increased the IL-10, TGF-β and IFNγ expressions in prophylaxis and treatment groups compared with the EAE group in the brain and spinal cord. The results obtained from this study show that prophylactic and therapeutic nobiletin modulates expressions of proinflammatory and antiinflammatory cytokines in brain and spinal cord dose-dependent manner in EAE model. These data demonstrates that nobiletin has a potential to attenuate inflammation in EAE mouse model. These experimental findings need to be supported by clinical studies.

Expression of PDGF-A, PDGFRA, integrin subunit alpha V and selectin E is increased in canine cutaneous fibrosarcomas

We investigated the expression of platelet derived growth factor alpha (PDGFA); its receptor, PDGFRA; integrin subunit alpha V; and selectin E in cutaneous fibrosarcomas in dogs. Ten cases of canine fibrosarcomas were obtained from the archive of the Department of Pathology, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun. Tissue sections were cut and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, Alcian blue-periodic acid Schiff, Masson's trichrome, and also immunostained. Eight tumors classified as spontaneous fibrosarcomas exhibited interwoven bundles of spindle shaped cells with oval to plump nuclei and scant cytoplasm, while two tumors exhibited features of injection site fibrosarcoma with peripheral infiltration of mononuclear cells and intratumor necrosis. We found that neoplastic cells from all cases exhibited cytoplasmic expression of PDGFA, and cytoplasmic and nuclear staining for PDGFRA. Integrin subunit alpha V immunostaining was observed in all cases, while selectin E expression was observed in vascular endothelial cells and neoplastic cells. A significant positive correlation was found between the expression of PDGFA and integrin subunit alpha V. Our findings indicate that PDGFA, PDGFRA, integrin subunit alpha V and selectin E are expressed strongly in canine cutaneous fibrosarcomas and may contribute to tumor progression.

Primary Unilateral Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Kidney in a Dog

Primary small cell carcinomas are rare in domestic animals. A mass measuring 15 × 20 × 9 cm was detected in the left abdominal cavity of a 7.5-year-old female golden retriever. The cut surface of the excised mass showed a tumour replacing the left kidney. Microscopically, the mass was composed of polymorphic, small basophilic cells with a high nuclear to cytoplasmic ratio and round, oval or short slender fusiform nuclei with condensed or finely granular chromatin, absent or inconspicuous nucleoli, and scant, faintly eosinophilic cytoplasm with poorly defined cytoplasmic borders. Immunohistochemically, most of the neoplastic cells were immunoreactive for thyroid transcription factor 1 and CD56, moderately positive for vimentin and weakly or sparsely labelled for chromogranin A, synaptophysin, Wilms' tumour 1 protein, neuron-specific enolase, pan-cytokeratin (CK) AE1/AE3 and epithelial membrane antigen. The tumour cells were negative for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1, CK7, CK20, CD3, CD45 and CD99. These findings indicated a neuroendocrine origin of the tumour. To the best of author's knowledge, this is the first report of a small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma originating as a primary tumour in the kidney of a dog.

Expression levels of angiogenic growth factors in feline squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common malignant neoplasm of the skin in cats. Tumour angiogenesis is the pivotal event for tumour progression and metastasis. We assessed protein and gene expression of angiogenic growth factors including bFGF, VEGF-C, TGF-β, PDGF-A, PDGF-C and PDGFR-α that possibly contribute to the angiogenic phenotype of feline SCC (FSCC) and could, therefore, be a good target in the treatment of SCC. In the present study, a total of 27 FSCC cases were investigated. Tumour cases were histopathologically classified as well differentiated (10/27), moderately differentiated (5/27), and poorly differentiated (12/27). The expression levels of the growth factors were detected using immunohistochemistry and assessed semi-quantitatively. Growth factor expression levels were evaluated at different locations: in the oral region, in areas exposed to solar UV radiation including the ears, eyelids and nasal planum, and other miscellaneous locations. Our findings have revealed that FSCC arising from different anatomical sites of the body and showing differences in aggressiveness, metastasis, and prognosis may be angiogenesis dependent, and angiogenic key regulators could play a role in the development of FSCC.

Late effects of cutaneous 3-methylcholanthrene exposure on DNA damage-related pleiotropic growth factors and oxidative stress markers in mice

BACKGROUND

Skin is the body's first defence against direct exposure to variety of chemicals. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons such as 3-methylcholanthrene (3-MC) are common in polluted urban air and have a potential of producing harmful effects. Moreover, their late effects can occur months or years after exposure.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to investigate the long-term effects of 3-MC induced dermal toxicity on the expression of markers of apoptosis, pleiotropic cytokines, and oxidative stress and to determine the protective effect of cisplatin.

METHODS

Groups were designed as control (group 1), 3-MC applied (group 2) and 3-MC+cisplatin applied mice (group 3). Cutaneous expressions of TGFβ, PDGFA, PDGFC, bFGF, PDGFRα, USP28, and Ki67 were evaluated with qPCR. Total oxidant (TOS), total antioxidant (TAS) and oxidative stress index (OSI) values were determined in liver and kidney tissues.

RESULTS

The expression levels of TGFβ, PDGFRα, USP-28, Ki67, and PDGFA were decreased significantly in MC applied groups. Renal TAS levels were significantly lower in group-3. Liver and kidney OSI values were increased in both groups 2 and 3.

CONCLUSION

The results indicated that low dose 3-MC caused oxidative stress and downregulated apoptotic and cytokine markers in the long term and cisplatin had no ameliorative effects on this degeneration processes (Tab. 3, Fig. 3, Ref. 32). Text in PDF www.elis.sk.

Periostin normalizes levels of cardiac markers in rats with experimental isoproterenol cardiotoxicity

BACKGROUND

Although the molecular mechanism of cardiac healing is not fully understood, myocardial infarction is one of the most usual diagnoses in hospitalized patients in industrialized nations while periostin has been recently suggested to have a potential in tissue repairing following myocardial ischemia.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the effects of periostin on the levels of selected cardiac parameters (cardiac troponin I and T, creatine kinase and creatine kinase isoenzyme-MB), antioxidant/lipid peroxidation parameters (superoxide dismutase, catalase, and malondialdehyde), hepatic parameters (alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate and alanine transaminases) as well as lipids (total cholesterol, triglyceride, high, low and very‑low‑density lipoproteins) in a rat model of isoproterenol---induced myocardial injury.

METHODS

A total of 84 male rats were grouped into saline (Group I), periostin (Group II), isoproterenol (Group III) and isoproterenol+periostin (Group IV) groups (n = 21). Isoproterenol (85 mg/kg/day) and periostin groups were both injected intraperitoneally (1 μg/kg).

RESULTS

Our results revealed that periostin has a positive reducing effect on the levels of analysed parameters especially on cardiac troponins and creatine kinases on days 7 and 28 of the recovery period following the induced experimental heart damage in rats.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that periostin could have a potential to increase the rate of myocardial recovery after myocardial infarction (Tab. 5, Ref. 28).

Feline necrotising sialometaplasia: A report of two cases

Unilateral swelling of submandibular salivary gland in two cats was diagnosed as necrotising sialometaplasia. Histological features that differentiate the disease from other salivary gland lesions, particularly neoplasia are: lobular necrosis of salivary tissue; squamous metaplasia conforming to duct and/or acinar outlines; preservation of salivary lobular morphology; and variable inflammation and granulation tissue.

Serum concentration and skin tissue expression of insulin-like growth factor 2 in canine generalized demodicosis

BACKGROUND

There is increasing evidence that insulin-like growth factor-2 (IGF-2) levels are altered in skin injury; there are no data evaluating the serum concentration and skin tissue expression of IGF-2 in canine generalized demodicosis.

HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES

To assess serum concentrations of IGF-2 collected from dogs with generalized demodicosis compared to healthy dogs and to determine the location of IGF-2 in the skin of affected dogs.

METHODS

Blood and skin samples were collected from 12 dogs of differing breeds and gender at 1-2 years of age that had a confirmed diagnosis of generalized demodicosis. Age-matched control skin and blood samples were collected from 11 normal dogs of different breeds and gender. Serum IGF-2 concentrations were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Skin tissue expression of IGF-2 was analysed by immunohistochemical methods.

RESULTS

Serum concentration and skin tissue expression of IGF-2 were increased in dogs with generalized demodicosis compared with control dogs.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

These findings indicate that keratinocytes, histiocytes and fibrocytes in the dermis are positive for IGF-2; they may be a source of the elevated serum IGF-2 levels in dogs with generalized demodicosis.

Immunohistochemical detection of autophagy-related microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) in the cerebellums of dogs naturally infected with canine distemper virus

We investigated the expression of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) protein in the cerebellums of dogs infected with canine distemper virus (CDV) using immunohistochemistry to detect autophagy. The cerebellums of 20 dogs infected with CDV were used. Specimens showing demyelination of white matter were considered to have an acute infection, whereas specimens showing signs of severe perivascular cuffing and demyelination of white matter were classified as having chronic CDV. Cerebellar sections were immunostained with CDV and LC3 antibodies. The cytoplasm of Purkinje cells, granular layer cells, motor neurons in large cerebellar ganglia and some neurons in white matter were positive for the LC3 antibody in both the control and CDV-infected dogs. In the infected cerebellums, however, white matter was immunostained more intensely, particularly the neurons and gemistocytic astrocytes in the demyelinated areas, compared to controls. Autophagy also was demonstrated in CDV-positive cells using double immunofluorescence staining. Our findings indicate that increased autophagy in the cerebellum of dogs naturally infected with CDV may play a role in transferring the virus from cell to cell.

Investigation of protective effect of L-carnitine on L-asparaginase-induced acute pancreatic injury in male Balb/c mice

INTRODUCTION

The present analysis deals with the biochemical and histopathological effects of L-carnitine in mice with L-asparaginase (ASNase)-induced experimental acute pancreatic injury (API).

METHODS

A total of 32 male Balb/c mice were divided into four groups as follows. Group I (control) was injected with single saline via the intraperitoneal route. Group II received 500 mg/kg of L-carnitine daily with the injected volume of 62.5-75 μl for 25-30 g mice using a Hamilton microinjector applied for 5 days. Group III received a single 10,000 IU Escherichia coli ASNase/kg body weight dose of ASNase at a dose of 500 mg/kg. Group IV received 500 mg/kg of L-carnitine daily and a single dose of 500 mg/kg of ASNase and were decapitated on the fifth day following the injection. Blood and pancreatic tissue samples were obtained for evaluation of histopathological structure and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), total sialic acid (TSA), glucose, amylase and triglyceride.

RESULTS

In group III, compared to group IV and group I it was determined that levels of GSH and amylase were significantly lower while levels of MDA, TSA, glucose and triglyceride were higher. Levels of GSH, MDA, TSA, glucose, triglyceride and amylase, especially in group IV, approached that of group I. As a result, L-carnitine for ASNase-induced API mice may be protective against pancreatic tissue degeneration and oxidative stress or lipid peroxidation.

Immunohistochemical distribution of leptin in kidney tissues of melatonin treated diabetic rats

We examined using immunohistochemistry the distribution of leptin in kidney tissues of melatonin treated, streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats. The animals were divided into five groups: control, sham, melatonin-treated, diabetic and melatonin-treated diabetic. Kidney sections were prepared and stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and Crossman's triple staining for histological examination. The immunohistochemical localization of leptin in the kidney tissue was determined using the streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase method. We determined that on days 7 and 14, the leptin immunoreactivity of the diabetic and melatonin-treated diabetic groups was weaker than for the other groups. Weak immunoreactivity was found in the proximal and distal tubules of the kidney in the diabetic and melatonin-treated diabetic groups on days 7 and 14, and strong immunoreactivity was found in the control, sham and melatonin groups. Melatonin application had no significant effect on leptin production in the kidney tissues of diabetic rats.

Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibition attenuates cyclosporine A induced nephrotoxicity in mice

We investigated the renal protective effects of phophodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors in mice with cyclosporine A (CyA; a calcineurin phosphatase inhibitor) induced nephrotoxicity. Fifty male mice were divided into five groups of 10. Group 1 received no treatment, group 2 received only saline orally, group 3 received 30 mg/kg/day CyA by subcutaneous injection, group 4 received only 30 mg/kg/day vardenafil orally, and group 5 received 30 mg/kg/day CyA by subcutaneous injection and 30 mg/kg/day vardenafil orally. At 28 days, platelet-derived growth factor A (PDGF-A) and C (PDGF-C), transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1), cyclo-oxygenase 1 and 2 (COX-1 and COX-2), and P glycoprotein (Pgp) expression levels were measured in the renal tissues. In addition, expressions of COX-1 and COX-2 genes were determined using real-time PCR. PDE5 inhibitor administration ameliorated decreased PDGF-A and C, TGF-β1, COX-1 and -2, and Pgp expression levels by modulation of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) activity in kidneys. The relative expressions of COX-1 and COX-2 genes to GAPDH revealed that the maximum increase was obtained in the group treated with CyA and vardenafil for both COX-1 and COX-2 genes. Our study revealed that long term oral treatment with vardenafil protects kidneys from CyA induced nephrotoxicity. We showed that long term oral treatment with PDE5 prevents pathological kidney changes caused by CyA induced nephrotoxicity.

Distribution of glutathione peroxidase 1 in liver tissues of healthy and diabetic rats treated with capsaisin

We investigated the immunohistochemical localization of glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx 1) and the structural changes that occur in the livers of healthy and diabetic rats that were treated with capsaisin (CAP). Fifty female rats were divided into five groups: group 1, sham; group 2, untreated control; group 3, CAP-treated; group 4, streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic; group 5, STZ diabetic + CAP-treated. STZ was administered to groups 4 and 5; after verifying diabetes, CAP was administered daily for 2 weeks to groups 3 and 5. Diffuse, microvesicular and some macrovesicular fatty degeneration were observed in the cytoplasms of hepatocytes in the livers of the diabetic group. In the CAP-treated diabetic group, fat degeneration in the livers decreased slightly by day 7. Irregularity of the external contours of nuclei of the hepatocytes, swelling of the nuclei, and slight anisocytosis and anisokaryosis were observed in the hepatocytes of the diabetic group. In the CAP-treated diabetic groups, the severity of anisocytosis and anisokaryosis decreased slightly by day 7. In all groups, GPx 1 showed similar immunolocalization, but in the diabetic and diabetic + CAP groups, GPx 1 immunoreactivity was less than in the other groups. GPx 1 immunoreactivity in the CAP-treated diabetic group was weaker than in the diabetic group. In all groups, GPx 1 immunoreactivity was diffusely cytoplasmic in some of the hepatocytes, and diffusely cytoplasmic and diffusely nuclear in other hepatocytes. Also, GPx 1 immunoreactivity in the liver was more intense in the hepatocytes around Kiernan's space. We found that CAP caused a decrease in GPx 1.

Protective effects of silymarin on fumonisin B₁-induced hepatotoxicity in mice

The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of silymarin on experimental liver toxication induced by Fumonisin B₁ (FB₁) in BALB/c mice. The mice were divided into six groups (n = 15). Group 1 served as the control. Group 2 was the silymarin control (100 mg/kg by gavage). Groups 3 and 4 were treated with FB₁ (Group 3, 1.5 mg/kg FB₁, intraperitoneally; and Group 4, 4.5 mg/kg FB₁). Group 5 received FB₁ (1.5 mg/kg) and silymarin (100 mg/kg), and Group 6 was given a higher dose of FB₁ (4.5 mg/kg FB₁) with silymarin (100 mg/kg). Silymarin treatment significantly decreased (p < 0.0001) the apoptotic rate. FB₁ administration significantly increased (p < 0.0001) proliferating cell nuclear antigen and Ki-67 expression. Furthermore, FB₁ elevated the levels of caspase-8 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha mediators while silymarin significantly reduced (p < 0.0001) the expression of these factors. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) expressions were significantly elevated in Group 4 (p < 0.0001). Silymarin administration alleviated increased VEGF and FGF-2 expression levels (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, silymarin ameliorated toxic liver damage caused by FB₁ in BALB/c mice.

The healing effect of shark cartilage in rabbits after colonic anastomosis

AIM

Shark cartilage has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-angiogenic, anti-tumoral, and immunomodulatory properties. We studied the effect of shark cartilage on the healing of colonic anastomoses, which are among the gastrointestinal system anastomoses that most commonly cause leakage.

MATERIAL OF STUDY

Rabbits were divided into two groups of seven as the study and control groups. A normal diet was given to both groups before and after right colonic anastomosis. Shark cartilage tablets were given orally to the study group for five days before and after the anastomosis. Bursting pressures, hydroxyproline levels and translocation of the intestinal flora in anastomosis region were evaluated on the 6th day by operating on both groups.

RESULTS

Bursting pressure and hydroxproline levels were higher in the experimental group compared to the control group (p<0.05). An increase in connective tissue and vascularization without growth of microorganisms was observed in the experimental group on microbiological examination.

CONCLUSIONS

Shark cartilage given orally to rabbits increased anastomotic healing and did not cause serious consequences such as bacterial translocation.

Immunohistochemical characterization of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors in canine normal testis and testicular tumours

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are ligand-activated transcription factors belonging to the nuclear hormone receptor superfamily. Recent studies have demonstrated that PPARs regulate lipid metabolism and are expressed in various cancers. The aim of the present study was to investigate the expression of PPAR-α, -β and -γ in normal canine testicular tissue and canine testicular tumours (CTTs). Expression of PPAR-α, -β and -γ was greater (P <0.05) than in normal testicular tissue. PPARs were therefore induced in CTTs and they may play a role in the biology of these tumours.

An investigation of growth factors and lactoferrin in naturally occurring ovine pulmonary adenomatosis

Ovine pulmonary adenomatosis (OPA), also known as jaagsiekte, is a transmissible beta retrovirus-induced lung tumour of sheep that has several features resembling human bronchoalveolar carcinoma (BAC). Angiogenesis has been suggested to be one of the most important factors underlying tumour growth and invasion. This process involves the action of growth factors including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C, basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-C and its receptor (PDGFR-α). Bovine lactoferrin (bLF), an iron and heparin-binding glycoprotein secreted into various biological fluids, has been implicated in innate immunity and has anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour functions. Tissues from 16 cases of OPA were compared with tissues from seven healthy control sheep by immunohistochemistry. Expression of the markers was assessed semi-quantitatively by ascribing an immunoreactivity score (IRS) with a maximum value of 300. VEGF-C, bFGF, PDGF-C, PDGFR-α and bLF signals were detected in 10/16, 15/16, 12/16, 15/16 and 10/16 of the OPA cases studied, respectively. bLF expression was weak in the neoplastic epithelial cells (IRS 21.4 ± 10.0) in contrast to high levels detected in infiltrating macrophages and plasma cells (IRS 141.3 ± 24.8 and 140.0 ± 25.1, respectively). The PDGFR-α IRS was elevated for neoplastic epithelial cells (108.9 ± 18.2) and was lowest for macrophages and plasma cells (20.4 ± 13.1 and 13.7 ± 12.4, respectively). These results suggest that bFGF, VEGF-C and PDGF-C have roles in the pathogenesis of OPA. bLF may activate macrophages and plasma cells in these lesions, but limited expression of bLF by neoplastic cells may be a consequence of defective or impaired function of this molecule.

Alpha basic crystallin expression in canine mammary tumors

The aim of this study was to evaluate prognostic and/or diagnostic factors of canine mammary tumors by immunohistochemically analyzing the expression of alpha basic crystallin (αB-c). For this, formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded blocks of 51 naturally-occurring canine mammary tumors (11 benign and 40 malignant) were used. Tissue from eight normal canine mammary glands were served as a control. Immunohistochemically, in the control mammary tissues, a few luminal epithelial cells were αB-c positive but myoepithelial cells were negative. In benign or simple type malignant tumors, αB-c expression was observed in luminal epithelial cells while the myoepithelial basal cells were negative. In benign or complex type malign tumors, positive staining was predominantly found in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells. Immunoreactivity of αB-c was also observed in neoplastic myoepithelial cells. Statistically, the number of cells immunolabeled with αB-c was found to be significantly different among tissues from normal canine mammary glands, benign lesions, and malignant tumors (p < 0.05). αB-c immunoreactivity was higher in malignant tumors than the control mammary tissues (p < 0.001). Data obtained in the current study revealed a strong association between high expression levels of αB-c and primary mammary gland tumors in canines.

Meibomian carcinoma of the eyelid in a Simmental cow

OBJECTIVE

To describe the clinical and pathomorphological features of meibomian carcinoma (MC) diagnosed in a Simmental cow.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A 7-year-old Simmental cow was admitted to the Veterinary Surgery Clinics of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Kafkas, Kars, Turkey. The signalment and anatomical distribution were summarized and focused on pathomorphological description.

RESULTS

Macroscopically, a papillary mass, 5 × 3.5 × 7 cm in size, arising from the left lower eyelid with local spread to the upper eyelid and covering the entire globe was observed. The mass was ulcerated and hemorrhagic and applied pressure to the globe. Following sedation and local anesthesia, the mass and globe were excised. Histopathological examination revealed an MC.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnosis of MC is infrequent in veterinary literature. Complete surgical excision could be curative and histopathology is crucial for the diagnosis of MC occurring in animals.

Fibroblast growth factor-2 and vascular endothelial growth factor expression in the ileocecal region of quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)

We undertook this study to immunolocalize in quail vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF-2) in the ileocecal region, which is a significant entry point for intestinal immunity. Diffuse cytoplasmic reaction for FGF-2 and VEGF was observed in the epithelial cells of the distal ileum and proximal cecal mucosa. VEGF immunoreactive cells, which give strong intracytoplasmic immunoreaction, were observed in the lamina propria of both intestinal parts. FGF-2 immunoreactive cells were seen in the lamina propria and germinative centers of lymph follicles in the cecum mucosa. Expressions of FGF-2 and VEGF in healthy quail intestines indicate that these factors have physiological roles in quail.

Determination of Cardiac Troponin I in the Blood and Heart of Calves with Foot-and-Mouth Disease

The current study was designed to determine the changes of the cardiac troponin I (cTnI) expression in blood and tissue during the myocardial degeneration in calves with foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Seventeen crossbred calves presenting pathological signs for FMD confirmed by viral analysis were studied. A biochemistry panel and immunohistochemistry were performed on 17 diseased calves and 7 calves used as controls. Creatine kinase (CK), CK-myocardial band (CK-MB), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities were analyzed for both groups. Cardiac troponin I levels were measured by a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Mean cTnI (14.8 ± 1.9 ng/ml) concentration and CK (573 ± 407 U/l), CK-MB (238 ± 37 U/l), AST (84 ± 7), and LDH (298 ± 29 U/l) activities were higher in FMD cases compared with controls. Immunohistochemistry revealed loss or depletion of cTnI expression in myocardium of all cases. None of the 7 controls showed loss of cTnI expression. Increased serum cTnI concentration correlated with myocardial injury and loss of cTnI immunolabeling in cardiomyocytes of calves with FMD.

The effect of kefir on glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in mice with colonic abnormal crypt formation (ACF) induced by azoxymethane (AOM)

In this study we investigated the effect of kefir on the levels of glutathione (GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) in the liver, stomach, spleen and colon of mice with colonic aberrant crypts formed by azoxymethane (AOM). Thirty 12 weeks old Swiss Albino mice averaging 31.5 g weight were used as experimental animals. The mice were separated into 3 groups. The first group was the control group, second group was the AOM and third group was the AOM+kefir group. We applied AOM to the second and third groups. Mice were fed ad libitum by laboratory rodent chow during the experiment period. Water was given to the first and second groups and third group received only kefir diluted with water (50%). AOM was injected subcutaneously to the second and third groups for 7 weeks (two times a week, 5 mg/kg). Six weeks after the final AOM treatment the animals were sacrificed and liver, stomach, spleen and colon samples were collected from all the groups. MDA level demonstrated an increase only in stomach for the third group (p < 0.001), while an elevation was observed for all of the four organs for the second group (spleen p < 0.001, liver p < 0.001, colon p < 0.01). GSH level showed an increase in the second group at stomach (p < 0.01) and colon (p < 0.001), while in the third group, a small increase was determined only at the colon (p < 0.05). NO level increased at all of the organs in the second group (spleen, liver, colon p < 0.001, stomach p < 0.05), but only at liver and colon in the third group 3 (p < 0.001). In conclusion these results showed that kefir plays an antioxidant role.

Metallothionein expression in benign and malignant canine mammary gland tumours

The presence of metallothioneins (MTs) were demonstrated immunohistochemically using a monoclonal antibody (E9) against a conserved epitope of I and II isoforms in canine mammary tumours. In a semiquantitative analysis MT expression in the tumour cells was observed in 54/54 cases of benign and 32/40 malignant mammary neoplasms. A statistically significant difference at the level of P<0.01 was observed for MT expression between benign and malign mammary tumours in terms of immunoreactivity score. It is concluded that immunohistochemically demonstrated MT expression is significantly associated with benign canine mammary tumours.

Repair of Urethral Defects Using Fascia Lata Autografts in Dogs

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the feasibility of urethroplasty using a free fascia lata (FL) graft in the dog.

STUDY DESIGN

In vivo experimental study.

ANIMALS

Mixed-breed dogs (n=14).

METHODS

Half of the circumference of the urethra, approximately 1.5 cm long, was excised in 14 male dogs to induce a urethral defect. FL (approximately 2 cm x 2 cm) harvested from the lateral thigh was sutured to the urethra using a 3-0 polyglactin 910 continuous pattern. Dogs were monitored daily for bladder distention and had urethral catheters until normal voiding was observed. On day 60, each dog had a positive contrast urethrogram, and then 8 dogs were euthanatized for gross and histologic examination. Six dogs were monitored for urologic problems for 6 months, and a positive contrast urethrogram was repeated.

RESULTS

All dogs recovered successfully; 4 dogs had difficulty voiding for 2-3 days and urine was aspirated from these dogs every 3 hours until signs of painful urination disappeared. On positive contrast urethrograms, urethral anatomy was considered normal except in 4 dogs that had an irregular contour. Gross urethral examination confirmed an absence of ulceration, stricture, diverticula, or fistula formation, and the FL-lined graft survived in all dogs. No degenerative and reparative responses were observed. On histologic examination of the penile urethra, the lumen was intact, covered with transitional epithelium, and surrounded by corpus spongiosum with cavernous spaces and blood-filled vessels.

CONCLUSIONS

Free FL grafts are incorporated satisfactorily and would appear to be useful for repairing urethral defects.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

FL grafts should be considered for repair of urethral defects in dogs.

Occurrence of Helicobacter Infection in the Gastric Mucosa of Free-living Red Foxes (Vulpes vulpes)

We studied gastric Helicobacter spp. in five red foxes (Vulpes vulpes). Samples of stomach from the cardia, corpus, pyloric antrum, and duodenum were subjected to histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) examination for the presence of Helicobacter and gastritis. All foxes had gastric Helicobacter-like organisms (GHLOs) on examination by light microscopy and TEM. Gastric Helicobacter-like organisms were present in all areas of the stomachs. Chronic mild or moderate gastric inflammation was associated with infection by GHLOs in one or more regions of the stomach, but there was no correlation between inflammation and infection. It is not clear whether the organisms were causing the minimal histologic lesions observed, but the gastric mucosa of free-living foxes appears to be commonly colonized with GHLOs. The frequent colonization of free-living foxes with distinct GHLOs possibly reflects their special characteristic in feeding and/or social behavior or the potential commensal nature of the bacteria in free-ranging foxes.

The effects of chronic exposure to ethanol and cigarette smoke on the level of reduced glutathione and malondialdehyde in rat kidney

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of chronic ethanol intake and cigarette smoke exposure on rat kidney. The animals were divided into four experimental groups: (1) the control group (C), (2) the ethanol group (E), (3) the cigarette smoke group (CS), and (4) the cigarette smoke plus ethanol group (CS+E). Apart from the control group, these were treated with ethanol and/or cigarette smoke for 6 months. The animals were killed and the kidneys removed to determine the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and for histopathological analysis. The levels of GSH/g wet tissue were 1.58+/-0.09 micro mol, 0.91+/-0.05 micro mol, 1.14+/-0.06 micro mol, and 0.82+/-0.04 micro mol for C, E, CS, and CS+E, respectively. In groups of E, CS, and CS+E, the GSH values were significantly lower than that of group C animals ( P<0.05). Although, we detected lower GSH levels in the CS+E than the CS group ( P<0.05), a significant difference in GSH levels between CS+E and E was not observed. The levels of MDA/g wet tissue were 40.1+/-3.4 nmol, 71.4+/-2.8 nmol, 64.0+/-3.6 nmol, and 76.5+/-4.3 nmol, for C, E, CS and CS+E, respectively. In E, CS, and CS+E, the MDA values were significantly higher than in group C ( P<0.05). The increase in MDA levels in CS+E were not significantly different from groups E or CS. Histopathological analysis of the kidney slices showed severe degeneration of the tissues. Advanced hydropic degeneration of kidney tubules was clearly observed in the CS group. In group E, advanced tubular and interstitial damage, mononuclear cell infiltration and tubular thyroidization were clearly visible. In group CS+E, an intense inflammatory cell infiltration was detected under the transitional epithelium. We conclude that chronic exposure to ethanol and cigarette smoke may cause an oxidative burst in rat kidney by increasing the formation of reactive oxygen species.

Salivary gland basal cell adenocarcinoma: a report of cases in a cat and two dogs

Basal cell adenocarcinoma of the salivary gland is described in a cat and two dogs; tumour tissue was characterized by cords and islands of epithelial cells with a distinct basal layer. The tumours were stained by various immunohistochemical methods. In addition to positive staining with cytokeratin 14 and pancytokeratin (CKs 5, 6, 8, 17 and 19), there was also staining with Jack bean agglutinin A (ConA) and soya bean agglutinin (SBA); this occurs in many other types of salivary gland tumours and is a feature of normal salivary gland acinar cells. In one dog there was also staining with SBA. This is the first report of this tumour in domestic animals; the immunohistochemical characteristics did not distinguish it from other salivary gland tumours.

Sebaceous carcinoma of the salivary gland in a cat

Sebaceous carcinoma of the submandibular salivary gland is described in a cat, tumour cells were characterized histologically by moderate amounts of pale eosinophilic or vacuolated cytoplasm. Tumour cells were stained with antibody to cytokeratins (CKs 5. 6, 8, 17 and 19) and with lectins Con A and wheat germ agglutinin (WGA); this occurs in many other types of salivary gland tumour and is a feature of normal salivary gland acinar cells.

Idiopathic salivary gland enlargement (sialadenosis) in dogs: a microscopic study

A histological, histochemical and morphometric study was performed on submandibular salivary glands from 13 dogs which had presented with a submandibular mass or swelling that proved to be a portion of non-inflammatory and non-neoplastic submandibular salivary gland. There were no consistent changes in lectin-binding histochemistry or immunohistochemical expression of various cell markers, and, in most cases, there was no measurable difference in acinar size in the affected gland. The possible explanation for the clinical salivary gland enlargement is therefore unclear.

Lectin histochemistry of dog major and minor salivary glands

The distribution of different carbohydrates in dog major and minor salivary glands was investigated using a peroxidase-labelled avidin-biotin method to demonstrate binding of six lectins (Canavalia ensiformis agglutinin [Con A], Dolichos biflorus agglutinin [DBA], Arachis hypogaea (peanut) agglutinin [PNA], Glycine max agglutinin [SBA], Tetragonolobus purpurea agglutinin [TGP] and wheat germ agglutinin [WGA]). With PNA, there was only weak staining in serous acini of parotid glands. Other lectins bound, to different degrees, to different components of the salivary glands; differences could be detected between glands and between binding of different lectins to serous and mucous acinar cells and to the epithelial cell cytoplasm, luminal surface and contents of ducts. These results provide a basis for the comparison of possible changes in carbohydrates which may occur in salivary gland diseases.

Salivary duct carcinoma in five cats

Carcinomas of salivary gland ducts are described in five cats. The typical histological pattern was the formation of large cell aggregates resembling dilated ducts, often with central necrosis and a looping pattern. All tumours were labelled with antibody to cytokeratins (CKs) 5, 6, 8, 14, 17 and 19. Labelling of tumour cells with CK14 suggested basal cell differentiation. All tumours stained with Jack bean (Canavalia ensiformis) agglutinin (Con A); this is a feature of normal salivary gland ducts but is seen in other salivary gland tumours. Staining of tumour cells at the luminal surface of ductal structures with wheat germ (Triticum vulgaris) agglutinin (WGA) in the cat tumours was similar to that seen in ducts of normal cat salivary glands but occurs in other cat tumours. Other immunohistochemical staining results were unremarkable. 1999 Harcourt Publishers Ltd.

Infection of gnotobiotic calves with Escherichia coli o157:h7 strain A84

Six colostrum-deprived, hysterotomy-derived calves were maintained under sterile conditions and fed a milk replacer diet. At five days of age, five of the calves were dosed orally with 10(9) cfu of Escherichia coli O157:H7 strain A84. They were killed after, one, two, six, 12 and 24 days, and samples were taken for bacteriological and pathological examination. The sixth uninfected control calf was killed at seven days of age and matched samples were taken for pathological comparison. The animals remained normal throughout the observation period. Bacteriological data indicated a heavy bacterial load of strain A84 throughout the gastrointestinal tract but the bacterium was not found in liver, kidney or muscle. No evidence of 'attaching and effacing' lesions in the small or large intestine was found although there was a mild inflammatory response in the intestinal tract, consisting mainly of infiltrating eosinophils.

Quantitation of histochemical staining of salivary gland mucin using image analysis in cats and dogs

Two different, computer-based, image analysis methods were employed to complement subjective assessment of patterns of mucin staining (by periodic acid Schiff/alcian blue, aldehyde fuchsin/alcian blue and potassium hydroxide-alcian blue/phenylhydrazine hydrocholoride) in digitised images of sections of major and minor salivary glands from cats and dogs. Image analysis based on red, green and blue (RGB) staining was not suitable for quantitation of histochemical staining of mucin in salivary glands. Image analysis based on hue, saturation and lightness (HSL) allowed quantitative assessment of staining by different stain components and of mixed staining, and enabled comparison of staining of different glands in dogs and cats. Quantitative analysis based on HSL allowed differentiation of differences in staining patterns of major and minor cat and dog salivary glands, and between the species; such differences would have been impossible to distinguish on subjective grounds alone. Quantitative assessment of normal salivary gland histochemistry allows comparison with staining patterns in disease.

Cytokeratin immunostaining in normal dog major and minor salivary glands

Immunohistochemical staining, with a monoclonal antibody specific for cytokeratins 5, 6, 8, 17 and 19 of dog submandibular, sublingual, parotid, palatine, tongue and zygomatic salivary glands resulted in staining of myoepithelial cells, duct epithelial cells (including intercalated, striated and secretory ducts) and some acinar epithelial cells. Differences in acinar staining between glands reflected the predominance of serous or mucous cells. Acinar epithelial staining was confined to serous cells in sublingual and zygomatic glands and in some parotid glands; serous cells in other parotid glands, and serous demilunes in submandibular, tongue and palatine glands, were unstained. Mucous cells were not stained in any of the glands.

Lipomatous infiltration of the canine salivary gland

Benign connective tumours of the canine salivary glands are rare. This report describes lipomatous infiltration of parotid or submandibular salivary glands in seven dogs in which the glands were enlarged as a result of infiltration by fat cells; they appeared to have been successfully treated by local excision. The precise cause of the lipomatous infiltration in the dogs is unclear but different causes of similar lesions in humans are discussed.