Efficacy of a Combination Therapy with Laronidase and Genistein in Treating Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I in a Mouse Model

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is a lysosomal storage disorder caused by α-L-iduronidase deficiency. The standard treatment, enzyme replacement therapy with laronidase, has limited effectiveness in treating neurological symptoms due to poor blood-brain barrier penetration. An alternative is substrate reduction therapy using molecules, such as genistein, which crosses this barrier. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a combination of laronidase and genistein in a mouse model of MPS I. Over 12 weeks, MPS I and wild-type mice received laronidase, genistein, or both. Glycosaminoglycan (GAG) storage in visceral organs and the brain, its excretion in urine, and the serum level of the heparin cofactor II-thrombin (HCII-T) complex, along with behavior, were assessed. The combination therapy resulted in reduced GAG storage in the heart and liver, whereas genistein alone reduced the brain GAG storage. Laronidase and combination therapy decreased liver and spleen weights and significantly reduced GAG excretion in the urine. However, this therapy negated some laronidase benefits in the HCII-T levels. Importantly, the combination therapy improved the behavior of female mice with MPS I. These findings offer valuable insights for future research to optimize MPS I treatments.

The pyrazole derivative of usnic acid inhibits the proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells in vitro and in vivo

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in Western societies. Its late diagnosis and resistance to chemotherapies result in a high mortality rate; thus, the development of more effective therapies for the treatment of pancreatic cancer is strongly warranted. Usnic acid (UA) is a secondary metabolite of lichens that shows modest antiproliferative activity toward cancer cells. Recently, we reported the synthesis of a UA pyrazole derivative, named 5, which was more active than the parent compound toward cervical cancer cells. Here, its anticancer potential has been evaluated in detail in other cancer cells, particularly pancreatic cancer cells.

METHODS

The impact of UA and derivative 5 on cell viability, morphology, cell cycle, and death was assessed using the MTT test, electron microscopy, flow cytometry, and immunoblotting, respectively. The calcium ions level was detected fluorometrically. In vivo, the anticancer activity of 5 was evaluated in a murine xenograft model.

RESULTS

Derivative 5 inhibited the viability of different cancer cells. Noncancerous cells were less sensitive. It induced the release of calcium ions from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and ER stress, which was manifested by cell vacuolization. It was accompanied by G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and cell death of pancreatic cancer cells. When applied to nude mice with xenografted pancreatic cancer cells, 5 inhibited tumor growth, with no signs of kidney or liver toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

UA derivative 5 is superior to UA inhibiting the growth and proliferation of pancreatic cancer cells. ER stress exaggeration is a mechanism underlying the activity of derivative 5.

Cellular and Gene Expression Response to the Combination of Genistein and Kaempferol in the Treatment of Mucopolysaccharidosis Type I

Flavonoids are investigated as therapeutics for mucopolysaccharidosis, a metabolic disorder with impaired glycosaminoglycan degradation. Here we determined the effects of genistein and kaempferol, used alone or in combination, on cellular response and gene expression in a mucopolysaccharidosis type I model. We assessed the cell cycle, viability, proliferation, subcellular localization of the translocation factor EB (TFEB), number and distribution of lysosomes, and glycosaminoglycan synthesis after exposure to flavonoids. Global gene expression was analysed using DNA microarray and quantitative PCR. The type and degree of flavonoid interaction were determined based on the combination and dose reduction indexes. The combination of both flavonoids synergistically inhibits glycosaminoglycan synthesis, modulates TFEB localization, lysosomal number, and distribution. Genistein and kaempferol in a 1:1 ratio regulate the expression of 52% of glycosaminoglycan metabolism genes. Flavonoids show synergy, additivity, or slight antagonism in all analysed parameters, and the type of interaction depends on the concentration and component ratios. With the simultaneous use of genistein and kaempferol in a ratio of 4:1, even a 10-fold reduction in the concentration of kaempferol is possible. Flavonoid mixtures, used as the treatment of mucopolysaccharidosis, are effective in reducing glycosaminoglycan production and storage and show a slight cytotoxic effect compared to single-flavonoid usage.

Global Changes of 5-mC/5h-mC Ratio and Methylation of Adiponectin and Leptin Gene in Placenta Depending on Mode of Delivery

It was suggested that the epigenetic alterations of the placenta are associated with obesity, as well as the delivery mode. This study aimed to assess the effect of maternal outcome and delivery procedure on global placental DNA methylation status, as well as selected 5'-Cytosine-phosphate-Guanine-3' (CpG) sites in ADIPOQ and LEP genes. Global DNA methylation profile in the placenta was assessed using the 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) ratio evaluated with the ELISA, followed by target gene methylation patterns at selected gene regions which were determined using methylation-specific qPCR in 70 placentas from healthy, pregnant women with single pregnancy. We found no statistically significant differences in 5-mC/5-hmC ratio between intrapartum cesarean sections (CS) and vaginal deliveries (p = 0.214), as well as between elective cesarean sections and vaginal deliveries (p = 0.221). In intrapartum cesarean sections, the ADIPOQ demethylation index was significantly higher (the average: 1.75) compared to elective cesarean section (the average: 1.23, p = 0.010) and vaginal deliveries (the average: 1.23, p = 0.011). The LEP demethylation index did not significantly differ among elective CS, intrapartum CS, and vaginal delivery groups. The demethylation index of ADIPOQ correlated negatively with LEP in the placenta in the vaginal delivery group (r = -0.456, p = 0.017), but not with the global methylation. The methylation of a singular locus might be different depending on the mode of delivery and uterine contractions. Further studies should be conducted with locus-specific analysis of the whole genome to detect the methylation index of specific genes involved in metabolism.

The impact of chemotheraphy and supervised high-intensity interval physical activity on left ventricle strain and myocardial work parameters – SPORT NATHY TRIAL pilot study results

Introduction

Cardiotoxic effect of chemotheraphy represents known and challenging problem, thus search for potentially cardioprotective factors plays a key role in the contemporary cardio-oncology. Physical activity may allievate side effects of chemotheraphy and improve quality of live. Myocardial Work is a novel echocardiographic technique and promising tool for cancer patients assesement.

Purpose

The aim of this randomised pilot study was to assess left ventricle function using speckle tracking myocardial strain (2D STE) with Myocardial Work (MW) module in young women undergoing neoadjuvant chemotheraphy due to breast cancer and the impact of supervised high-intensity interval physical activity on these echocardiographic parameters.

Material and methods

We evaluated 24 women aged 27–41 (mean 34±4 yrs) with invasive breast cancer undergoing standard neoadjuvant chemotheraphy and randomized them into two groups: control - (CG, 15 pts) and experimental - with 6 months of supervised high-intensity interval exercise (SHIIEG, 9 pts). Every patient underwent echocardiographic examination 2D STE and MW before chemotheraphy and at 6 months follow-up. The following parameters were evaluated: Global Longitudinal Strain (GLS), Global Work Index (GWI), Global Constructive Work (GCW), Global Work Efficiency (GWE), Global Waste Work (GWW).

Results

Following parameters significantly decreased after chemotherapy: EF (65.4±5.7 vs 60.5±7.0%; p=0.003), GLS (20.4±2.5 vs 18.4±2.0%; p=0.001), GWI (1835.4±206.9 vs 1594.1±228.3 mmHg%; p=0.0004), GCW (2240.5±270.8 vs 1884.9±241.3 mmHg%; p=0.0001), GWE (95.9±1.5 vs 94.9±1.7%; p=0.02). No signifficant changes in GWW (78.6±36.4 vs 80.5±32.2 mmHg%; p=0.7) were found.

The comparison of control (CG) and experimental group (SHIIEG) at 6 months follow-up revealed no signifficant differences in the following parameters: GLS (p=0.9), GWI (p=0.3), GCW (p=0.2), GWE (p=0.3) and GWW (p=0.5). However analysis of relative percentage change from baseline in GLS and GWW (Δ%GLS, Δ%GWW) almost reached statistical significance [for CG and SHIIEG respectively: Δ%GLS (−15.6 vs −4.4; p=0.07), Δ%GWW (+39.4 vs −7.3; p=0.06)].

Conclusions

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy administered in young women with invasive breast cancer impaires the function of left ventricle after 6 month of theraphy, resulting in decrease of GLS, GWI, GCW and GWE. The supervised high-intensity interval physical activity impacts the relative change of GLS (Δ%GLS) and GWW (Δ%GWW), therefore may have cardioprotective effect on left ventricle function.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding source: Public hospital(s). Main funding source(s): Greater Poland Cancer Centre, Poznan, Poland

Lipophagy and Lipolysis Status in Lipid Storage and Lipid Metabolism Diseases

This review discusses how lipophagy and cytosolic lipolysis degrade cellular lipids, as well as how these pathway ys communicate, how they affect lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis in cells and how their dysfunction affects the pathogenesis of lipid storage and lipid metabolism diseases. Answers to these questions will likely uncover novel strategies for the treatment of aforementioned human diseases, but, above all, will avoid destructive effects of high concentrations of lipids-referred to as lipotoxicity-resulting in cellular dysfunction and cell death.

The role of genetic factors and monocyte-to-osteoclast differentiation in the pathogenesis of Charcot neuroarthropathy

Charcot neuroarthropathy is a chronic, progressive condition of the skeletal system that affects some patients with diabetic neuropathy. It results in progressive destruction of bones of the foot and disorganisation of pedal joints and ligaments. Effective prevention and treatment for Charcot neuroarthropathy remain a challenge. Currently, there are no reliable repeatable markers to identify patients with diabetes who are at higher risk of developing Charcot neuroarthropathy. The pathogenesis underlying the development of Charcot neuroarthropathy also remains unclear. In this review, we provide an overview of the history, prevalence, symptoms, risk factors, diagnostics and treatment of Charcot neuroarthropathy. We also discuss the potential for OPG and RANKL gene variants to act as predictive markers for the development of Charcot neuroarthropathy. Finally, we summarise the latest research on the role of monocyte-to-osteoclast differentiation in the development of acute Charcot neuroarthropathy.

Lipids and Lipid Mediators Associated with the Risk and Pathology of Ischemic Stroke

Stroke is a severe neurological disorder in humans that results from an interruption of the blood supply to the brain. Worldwide, stoke affects over 100 million people each year and is the second largest contributor to disability. Dyslipidemia is a modifiable risk factor for stroke that is associated with an increased risk of the disease. Traditional and non-traditional lipid measures are proposed as biomarkers for the better detection of subclinical disease. In the central nervous system, lipids and lipid mediators are essential to sustain the normal brain tissue structure and function. Pathways leading to post-stroke brain deterioration include the metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids. A variety of lipid mediators are generated from fatty acids and these molecules may have either neuroprotective or neurodegenerative effects on the post-stroke brain tissue; therefore, they largely contribute to the outcome and recovery from stroke. In this review, we provide an overview of serum lipids associated with the risk of ischemic stroke. We also discuss the role of lipid mediators, with particular emphasis on eicosanoids, in the pathology of ischemic stroke. Finally, we summarize the latest research on potential targets in lipid metabolic pathways for ischemic stroke treatment and on the development of new stroke risk biomarkers for use in clinical practice.

Lysosome Alterations in the Human Epithelial Cell Line HaCaT and Skin Specimens: Relevance to Psoriasis

Despite the constantly updated knowledge regarding the alterations occurring in the cells of patients with psoriasis, the status and the role of the lysosome, a control center of cell metabolism, remain to be elucidated. The architecture of the epidermis is largely regulated by the action of lysosomes, possibly activating signaling pathways in the cellular crosstalk of keratinocytes-epidermal cells-with infiltrating immune cells. Thus, in the present study, lysosome alterations were examined in vitro and in situ using a two-dimensional (2D) keratinocyte model of HaCaT cells with "psoriasis-like" inflammation and skin specimens, respectively. Specific fluorescence and immunohistochemical staining showed an augmented level of acidic organelles in response to keratinocyte activation (mimicking a psoriatic condition while maintaining the membrane integrity of these structures) as compared with the control, similar to that seen in skin samples taken from patients. Interestingly, patients with the most pronounced PASI (Psoriasis Area and Severity Index), BSA (Body Surface Area), and DLQI (Dermatology Life Quality Index) scores suffered a high incidence of positive lysosomal-associated membrane protein 1 (LAMP1) expression. Moreover, it was found that the gene deregulation pattern was comparable in lesioned (PP) and non-lesioned (PN) patient-derived skin tissue, which may indicate that these alterations occur prior to the onset of the characteristic phenotype of the disease. Changes in the activity of genes encoding the microphthalmia family (MiT family) of transcription factors and mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (MTORC1) were also observed in the in vitro psoriasis model, indicating that the biogenesis pathway of this arm is inhibited. Interestingly, in contrast to the keratinocytes of HaCaT with "psoriasis-like" inflammation, LAMP1 was up-regulated in both PP and PN skin, which can be a potential sign of an alternative mechanism of lysosome formation. Defining the molecular profile of psoriasis in the context of "the awesome lysosome" is not only interesting, but also desired; therefore, it is believed that this paper will serve to encourage other researchers to conduct further studies on this subject.

Glycosaminoglycans and mucopolysaccharidosis type III

Mucopolysaccharidosis type III (MPS III), or Sanfilippo syndrome, is a lysosomal storage disease in which heparan sulfate is accumulated in lysosomes, as well as outside of cells, as the primary storage material. This disease is a complex of four conditions caused by dysfunctions of one of genes coding for lysosomal enzymes involved in degradation of heparan sulfate: SGSH (coding for heparan N-sulfatase) - causing MPS IIIA, NAGLU (coding for alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase) - causing MPS IIIB, HGSNAT (coding for acetyl CoA alpha-glucosaminide acetyltransferase) - causing MPS IIIC), and GNS (coding for N-acetylglucosamine-6-sulfatase) - causing MPS IIID. The primary storage is responsible for some disease symptoms, but other arise as a result of secondary storage, including glycosphingolipids, and subsequent processes, like oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Central nervous system is predominantly affected in all subtypes of MPS III. Heparan sulfate and its derivatives are the most commonly used biomarkers for diagnosis and prediction procedures. Currently, there is no therapy for Sanfilippo syndrome, however, clinical trials are ongoing for enzyme replacement therapy, gene therapy and substrate reduction therapy (particularly gene expression-targeted isoflavone therapy).

Long-course oxaliplatin-based preoperative chemoradiation versus 5 × 5 Gy and consolidation chemotherapy for cT4 or fixed cT3 rectal cancer: results of a randomized phase III study

BACKGROUND

Improvements in local control are required when using preoperative chemoradiation for cT4 or advanced cT3 rectal cancer. There is therefore a need to explore more effective schedules.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with fixed cT3 or cT4 cancer were randomized either to 5 × 5 Gy and three cycles of FOLFOX4 (group A) or to 50.4 Gy in 28 fractions combined with two 5-day cycles of bolus 5-Fu 325 mg/m(2)/day and leucovorin 20 mg/m(2)/day during the first and fifth week of irradiation along with five infusions of oxaliplatin 50 mg/m(2) once weekly (group B). The protocol was amended in 2012 to allow oxaliplatin to be then foregone in both groups.

RESULTS

Of 541 entered patients, 515 were eligible for analysis; 261 in group A and 254 in group B. Preoperative treatment acute toxicity was lower in group A than group B, P = 0.006; any toxicity being, respectively, 75% versus 83%, grade III-IV 23% versus 21% and toxic deaths 1% versus 3%. R0 resection rates (primary end point) and pathological complete response rates in groups A and B were, respectively, 77% versus 71%, P = 0.07, and 16% versus 12%, P = 0.17. The median follow-up was 35 months. At 3 years, the rates of overall survival and disease-free survival in groups A and B were, respectively, 73% versus 65%, P = 0.046, and 53% versus 52%, P = 0.85, together with the cumulative incidence of local failure and distant metastases being, respectively, 22% versus 21%, P = 0.82, and 30% versus 27%, P = 0.26. Postoperative and late complications rates in group A and group B were, respectively, 29% versus 25%, P = 0.18, and 20% versus 22%, P = 0.54.

CONCLUSIONS

No differences were observed in local efficacy between 5 × 5 Gy with consolidation chemotherapy and long-course chemoradiation. Nevertheless, an improved overall survival and lower acute toxicity favours the 5 × 5 Gy schedule with consolidation chemotherapy.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER

The trial is registered as ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT00833131.

Genistin-rich soy isoflavone extract in substrate reduction therapy for Sanfilippo syndrome: An open-label, pilot study in 10 pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs) are a group of severe metabolic disorders caused by deficiencies in enzymes involved in the degradation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs)-long chains of sugar carbohydrates in cells that help build bone, cartilage, tendons, corneas, skin, and connective tissue. Although enzyme replacement therapy has become available for the treatment of some types of MPS, effective treatment of neurodegenerative forms of MPS has yet to be determined. Recently, genistein (4',5,7-trihydroxyisoflavone), a specific inhibitor of protein tyrosine kinase, has been found to inhibit GAG synthesis and to reduce GAG concentrations in cultures of fibroblasts of MPS patients. Therefore, a potential substrate reduction therapy has been proposed.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to examine urinary GAG concentration, hair morphology, and cognitive function in patients receiving genistin treatment for Sanfilippo syndrome (MPS type III).

METHODS

Patients aged 3 to 14 years with a biochemically confirmed diagnosis of MPS IIIA or MPS IIIB were eligible to enroll in this open-label, pilot study. Genistin-rich soy isoflavone extract 5 mg/kg/d was administered PO for 12 months. Urinary GAG concentration, hair morphology,and cognitive function (measured using a modified version of the Brief Assessment Examination [BAE] and parent observations)were measured at baseline and after 12 months of treatment.

RESULTS

Ten patients (6 girls, 4 boys; mean age, 8 years [range,3\2-14 years];mean weight, 28 kg [range, 17\2-43 kg]) were included in the study. All patients had Sanfilippo syndrome; 5 patients had MPS IIIA and 5 had MPS IIIB. After 1 year, statistically significant improvement was found in urinary GAG concentration, hair morphology, and cognitive function. Urinary GAG concentration decreased significantly in all 5 patients with MPS IIIA and in 2 patients with MPS IIIB (P = 0.028). Hair morphology improved significantly in all 5 MPS IIIA patients and in 3 MPS IIIB patients (P = 0.012). A significant increase in the BAE score (by 2-6 points) was noted in 8 patients, while the scores of 2 patients did not change after 12 months of treatment (P = 0.012). No adverse events (AEs) considered related to treatment were reported. Moreover, no AEs not related to the treatment (apart from classical symptoms of MPS III) were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study found some improvements in GAG concentration, hair morphology, and cognitive function in these pediatric patients with Sanfilippo syndrome treated with genistin-rich soy isoflavone extract for 1 year. Clinical trials are needed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this potential treatment.

Comparison of siRNA-mediated silencing of glycosaminoglycan synthesis genes and enzyme replacement therapy for mucopolysaccharidosis in cell culture studies

Cytotoxicity of laronidase (Aldurazyme(®)), employed in enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) for mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) and various siRNAs, tested previously in studies on substrate reduction therapy (SRT) for mucopolysaccharidoses, was tested. The enzyme did not cause any cytotoxic effects, and the siRNAs did not inhibit growth of most investigated cell lines. However, some cytotoxic effects of some tested siRNAs were observed in one MPS IIIA cell line. The efficacy of a combination of enzyme replacement therapy and siRNA-based substrate deprivation therapy was tested on three MPS I cell lines. Surprisingly, different results were obtained for different cell lines. The decrease of glycosaminoglycan storage in cells treated simultaneously with both methods was: (i) less pronounced than obtained with either of those methods used alone in one cell line, (ii) similar to that observed for enzyme replacement therapy in another cell line, and (iii) stronger than that obtained with either of the methods used alone in the third cell line. Therefore, it appears that the effects of various therapeutic methods may strongly depend on the features of the MPS cell line.

Comparison of siRNA-mediated silencing of glycosaminoglycan synthesis genes and enzyme replacement therapy for mucopolysaccharidosis in cell culture studies

Cytotoxicity of laronidase (Aldurazyme(®)), employed in enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) for mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) and various siRNAs, tested previously in studies on substrate reduction therapy (SRT) for mucopolysaccharidoses, was tested. The enzyme did not cause any cytotoxic effects, and the siRNAs did not inhibit growth of most investigated cell lines. However, some cytotoxic effects of some tested siRNAs were observed in one MPS IIIA cell line. The efficacy of a combination of enzyme replacement therapy and siRNA-based substrate deprivation therapy was tested on three MPS I cell lines. Surprisingly, different results were obtained for different cell lines. The decrease of glycosaminoglycan storage in cells treated simultaneously with both methods was: (i) less pronounced than obtained with either of those methods used alone in one cell line, (ii) similar to that observed for enzyme replacement therapy in another cell line, and (iii) stronger than that obtained with either of the methods used alone in the third cell line. Therefore, it appears that the effects of various therapeutic methods may strongly depend on the features of the MPS cell line.

Genistein improves neuropathology and corrects behaviour in a mouse model of neurodegenerative metabolic disease

Background

Neurodegenerative metabolic disorders such as mucopolysaccharidosis IIIB (MPSIIIB or Sanfilippo disease) accumulate undegraded substrates in the brain and are often unresponsive to enzyme replacement treatments due to the impermeability of the blood brain barrier to enzyme. MPSIIIB is characterised by behavioural difficulties, cognitive and later motor decline, with death in the second decade of life. Most of these neurodegenerative lysosomal storage diseases lack effective treatments. We recently described significant reductions of accumulated heparan sulphate substrate in liver of a mouse model of MPSIIIB using the tyrosine kinase inhibitor genistein.

Methodology/Principal Findings

We report here that high doses of genistein aglycone, given continuously over a 9 month period to MPSIIIB mice, significantly reduce lysosomal storage, heparan sulphate substrate and neuroinflammation in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus, resulting in correction of the behavioural defects observed. Improvements in synaptic vesicle protein expression and secondary storage in the cerebral cortex were also observed.

Conclusions/Significance

Genistein may prove useful as a substrate reduction agent to delay clinical onset of MPSIIIB and, due to its multimodal action, may provide a treatment adjunct for several other neurodegenerative metabolic diseases.

Nephrotic syndrome as first manifestation of a bronchopulmonary malignancy. A case report

We present two cases of a bronchopulmonary tumor with paraneoplastic nephrotic syndrome as initial manifestation. After surgical resection of the tumor, regression of the nephrotic syndrome occurred.

Genistein: a natural isoflavone with a potential for treatment of genetic diseases

Genistein [4′,5,7-trihydroxyisoflavone or 5,7-dihydroxy-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one] is a natural isoflavone occurring in many plants known to possess various biological activities, ranging from phyto-oestrogenic to antioxidative actions. Recent studies indicated that this isoflavone can also be considered as a drug for as yet untreatable genetic diseases. In the present review, we discuss a plausible use of genistein in treatment of two genetic disorders: CF (cystic fibrosis) and MPS (mucopolysaccharidosis). Although various biological actions of genistein are employed in these two cases, in vitro studies, tests on animal models and pilot clinical trials suggest that this plant-derived compound might be a real hope for patients suffering from severe inherited disorders with relatively complicated pathomechanisms, including those affecting the central nervous system.

The prevalence of leptotrichia amnionii in cervical swabs of HPV positive and negative women

The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence of Leptotrichia amnionii in cervical swabs of women and its possible correlation with HPV infection and the stage of cervical cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 139 cervical swabs from healthy women with normal cytology, with dysplastic changes and with cervical cancer were tested for the presence of L.amnionii and high-risk HPV DNA by PCR methods.

RESULTS

L. amnionii was found in normal vaginal flora and in women with bacterial vaginosis (BV), which suggests that it may be oportunistic pathogen. L. amnionii infection was diagnosed in 13.7% (19/139). Statistical analysis showed that there was positive association (p < 0.01) between the presence of L.amnionii in women with cervical cancer (38.5%) and its presence in women without cancer (11.1%). On the other hand, there was no statistically significant association between L.amnionii and HPV infections.

CONCLUSION

The data presented in this study show for the first time the prevalence of L. amnionii infection in cervical specimens collected from 2004-2006 in Poznan and Lublin, Poland, and its association with HPV infection and the stage of carcinogenesis of the cervix.

Genistein reduces lysosomal storage in peripheral tissues of mucopolysaccharide IIIB mice

Mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIB (Sanfilippo syndrome) is a lysosomal storage disease caused by a genetic defect in the production of alpha-N-acetylglucosaminidase. This results in lysosomal and extracellular accumulation of the undegraded glycosaminoglycan (GAG) substrate, heparan sulphate. Affected patients show progressive CNS degeneration characterised by mental retardation, hyperactivity and seizures, with death usually in the mid teens to early twenties. Visceral organ storage is also present but is relatively mild compared to other MPS diseases storing similar substrates. No treatments currently exist for MPS IIIB. Genistein is a broad spectrum protein tyrosine kinase inhibitor which acts on several different growth factor receptors, notably EGF and IGF receptors, both of which are important for proteoglycan synthesis. Recent work has shown that genistein can reduce GAG synthesis in patients' fibroblasts in vitro and there is evidence in patients to suggest that it may be an effective substrate reduction therapy agent for MPS III. Here we have tested the dose responses of MPS IIIB mice to daily sub-chronic dosing of genistein in half log increments compared to carrier over 8 weeks. We show clear reductions in liver lysosome compartment size in both sexes and significant dose dependent improvements in total liver GAGs and hair morphology in male MPS IIIB animals following genistein treatment. Male MPS IIIB mice exhibited considerably more liver storage than females and responded better to treatment. No changes in total GAGs, lysosomal size or reactive astrogliosis in the brain cortex were observed after 8 weeks of treatment despite evidence that genistein can cross the blood brain barrier. This is the first demonstration of genistein treatment in MPS models in vivo.

Abnormalities in the hair morphology of patients with some but not all types of mucopolysaccharidoses

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of inherited, progressive, metabolic diseases, caused by the deficiency of one of the enzymes involved in the degradation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). The disease is usually fatal, with the life span of most untreated MPS patients being between one and two decades. In this report, on the basis of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) studies, we demonstrate that, besides the many other symptoms of MPS, there are characteristic abnormalities in the hair morphology of patients suffering from some types of this disease (MPS I, MPS II, MPS IIIA, MPS IIIB), but not from other types (MPS IVA, MPS IVB, MPS VI), where the changes are minor, if any. Different GAGs accumulate in the tissues of patients suffering from the various MPS types, and analysis of the disease types in which severe hair abnormalities occur or not could suggest that the accumulation of heparan sulfate, rather than dermatan sulfate or keratan sufate, may be responsible for the major changes in hair morphology. Considerable abnormalities in hair morphology occur in patients suffering from MPS I, MPS II, MPS IIIA, and MPS IIIB, but not in patients suffering from MPS IVA, MPS IVB, and MPS VI; this feature might potentially be used as an additional test for the assessment of the efficacy of treatments for MPS patients (types I, II, IIIA, and IIIB).

[The range of antagonistic effects of Lactobacillus bacterial strains on etiologic agents of bacterial vaginosis]

Bacterial vaginosis is caused by uncontrolled sequential overgrowth of some anaerobic bacteria: Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella bivia, Bacteroides spp., Peptostreptococcus spp., Mobiluncus sp. usually occurring in stable numbers in the bacterial flora of healthy women. On the other hand, different species of bacteria belonging to the genus Lactobacillus, most frequently L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus and L. acidophilus, form a group of aerobic bacteria dominating in the same environment. The diversity and density of their populations depend on the age and health conditions. Thanks to their antagonistic and adherence properties bacteria of the genus Lactobacillus can maintain a positive balance role in this ecosystem. The aim of this study was to assess the antagonistic properties of Lactobacillus strains isolated from the vagina of healthy women against most common agents of bacterial vaginosis. It was found that nearly all of the tested Lactobacillus strains exerted distinct antagonistic activity against anaerobic bacteria: Gardnerella vaginalis, Prevotella bivia and Peptostreptococcus anaerobius and quite a number also against Gram-negative rods, while only some of them were able to inhibit Gram-positive aerobic cocci as Enterococcus faecalis or Staphylococcus aureus.

Diversity of connections of the temporal neocortex with amygdaloid nuclei in the dog (Canis familiaris)

Reciprocal connections of amygdaloid nuclei with the temporal neocortex in the dog were investigated. Injections of fluorescent tracers and BDA into particular temporal areas were made in eleven dogs. The topographical arrangement of connections and variations in their density differentiate the temporal neocortex in the dog into a few regions. Among them, the cortex involving the anterior part of the ectosylvian gyrus did not send any amygdalopetal projection. The middle ectosylvian, dorsal zone of the posterior ectosylvian and the anterior part of the Sylvian gyrus were weakly connected with the amygdala. The cortical region involving the ventral zone of the posterior ectosylvian and composite posterior areas, as well as posterior Sylvian gyrus, was characterized by profuse connections with the amygdaloid complex. Cortico-amygdaloid connections originate in the wide cortical area of the auditory cortex of the middle and dorsal part of the posterior ectosylvian gyrus as well as in the auditory association cortex located in the ventral ectosylvian, composite posterior and posterior Sylvian gyri. The connections showed a dorso-ventral gradient of increasing density, in the direction of association fields. The most substantial projection taking rise from the ectosylvian posterior and posterior composite gyri terminated preferentially in the pericapsular sector of the lateral amygdaloid nucleus and, to a lesser degree, in its medial sector. Terminals of connections originating in the Sylvian gyrus occupied preferentially the intermediate part of the lateral nucleus, slightly more medially than that from the ectosylvian and posterior composite areas. Additionally, axonal terminals derived from the composite posterior and Sylvian posterior areas were observed in the basal parvocellular and magnocellular nuclei. Neocortical projections were reciprocated by amygdalofugal connections with two exceptions: the basal magnocellular nucleus was distinguished by a substantial amygdalofugal projection to the temporal neocortex focused on the dorsal Sylvian gyrus, and the central nucleus of the amygdala, in contrast, received an exclusively corticofugal projection.

Thalamic and amygdaloid connections of the auditory association cortex of the superior temporal gyrus in rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta)

Thalamic and amygdaloid connections of three association auditory areas (AA1, AA2, AA3) of the superior temporal gyrus (STG) were investigated. In order to define the projections of the particular areas, injections of fluorescent tracers were made in three monkeys. Distribution of labeling indicates that area AA1 differs from areas AA2 and AA3 in patterns of both thalamo-cortical and amygdalo-cortical connections. Area AA1 receives its predominant inputs from the ventral and dorsal nuclei of the medical geniculate body (MGB). The amygdaloid projection to the area AA1 originates from the basal nuclei, whereas input from the lateral nucleus was not found. The characteristic thalamic projections to areas AA2 and AA3 originate from the dorsal MGB nucleus and the polymodal nuclei of the posterior thalamus. The density of projections from the dorsal nucleus gradually decreases from area AA1 to area AA3 while projections from the Plm, Sg and Lim nuclei increase in the same direction. Areas AA2 and AA3 are the source of strong connections with the lateral nucleus of amygdala, which density increases progressively when injections shift from area AA2 to AA3. The basal and accessory basal nuclei are the source of a less significant amygdalofugal projections to both cortical areas. Thus, our experimental data indicate that influence of the polymodal thalamic nuclei increases substantially in the direction of the higher order association areas. The strong relation of the same cortical areas with the lateral amygdaloid nucleus might suggest that areas AA2 and AA3, in addition to auditory input are the site of transfer of complex sensory information to the amygdala.

Effect of inderal on insulin secretion, glycemia and FFA concentration in normal subjects and diabetics

In 20 cases of adult-type diabetes and in 10 healthy controls insulinemia, glycemia and free acids concentration were determined under basal conditions, after glucose load and after administration of inderal and glucose. After intravenous injection of inderal basal insulinemia fell in controls but this fall was statistically not significant, while in diabetics no evident changes of insulinemia were observed. Following inderal injection and oral glucose a statistically significant drop in insulinemia was observed in controls but not in diabetics. In both groups inderal injection was without any significant effect on glycemia before as well as after glucose load. In both groups a significant decrease occurred in the level of free fatty acids and inderal had no effect on it.