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So M, Miyamoto Y, Iwagami M, Ishimaru M, Takahashi M, Egorova N, Kuno T. Response to: Hemoglobin drop associated with the risk of hospital mortality and acute kidney injury among COVID-19 inpatients. QJM 2023; 116:964-965. [PMID: 37335856 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcad139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- M So
- Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Mount Sinai Beth Israel, New York, NY, 10003, USA
| | - Y Miyamoto
- Department of Nephrology and Endocrinology, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - M Iwagami
- Department of Health Services Research, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Japan
| | - M Ishimaru
- Department of Health Services Research, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, 305-8575, Japan
| | - M Takahashi
- Laboratory of Systems Cancer Biology, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - N Egorova
- Department of Population Health Science and Policy, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, 10029-6504, USA
| | - T Kuno
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Montefiore Medical Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, New York, NY, 10467-2401, USA
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2
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So M, Tsuji Y, Suzuki T. Efficacy of zinc acetate hydrate for hypozincemia in the elderly is influenced by the initial accumulated exposure dose after taking zinc acetate hydrate. Pharmazie 2023; 78:201-206. [PMID: 38037215 DOI: 10.1691/ph.2023.3576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the efficacy of zinc acetate hydrate (ZAH) for hypozincemia in elderly hospitalized patients with an accumulated exposure of < 1000 mg of ZAH and to explore the factors affecting the therapeutic efficacy of ZAH. Seventy-four patients (mean age, 82 years) were enrolled in this study. All patients (n = 74) had low serum zinc levels (< 80 μg/dL), and the mean serum zinc concentration before ZAH administration was 53.6±10.7 μg/dL. The median serum zinc level (μg/dL) elevated per tablet (25 mg) of ZAH was 1.26 μg/dL, and the patients were divided into two groups, the slightly increased (< 1.26) and significantly increased (≥ 1.26) groups, based on the median cutoff value for the median increase in serum zinc level. A significant difference was found between the slightly increased (0.63±0.35 μg/dL, n = 36) and significantly increased (2.37±0.95 μg/dL, n = 38) groups (p < 0.0001, Wilcoxon rank-sum test). Logistic regression analysis with the accumulated exposure dose of ZAH, sex, and body weight as multivariate variables showed a significant difference in the accumulated exposure dose (total number of tablets per 25 mg: odds ratio, 1.119; 95% confidence interval, 1.052???1.203; p = 0.0009). There was no effect of underlying disease or of diet or zinc-containing intravenous or enteral nutrition on serum zinc levels. These results suggest that at an accumulated exposure of < 1000 mg of ZAH, serum zinc levels tend to increase with smaller accumulated doses. Therefore, serum zinc concentrations should be measured at the accumulated exposure to 500-1000 mg after ZAH initiation for the treatment of zinc deficiency in elderly hospitalized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- M So
- Department of Pharmacy, Juntendo Tokyo Koto Geriatric Medical Center, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Y Tsuji
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacometrics, School of Pharmacy Nihon University, Chiba, Japan
| | - T Suzuki
- Laboratory of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy Nihon University, Chiba, Japan
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Marsh LC, Patel SD, Smith AJ, So M, Armstrong H, Elliott R, Watkins E, Moulds M, Dalgleish T, Hitchcock C. From basic science to clinical practice: Can cognitive behavioural therapy tasks be augmented with enhanced episodic specificity? Behav Res Ther 2023; 167:104352. [PMID: 37331240 DOI: 10.1016/j.brat.2023.104352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023]
Abstract
Individuals with depression typically remember their past in a generalised manner, at the cost of retrieving specific event memories. This may impair engagement with cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) tasks that use concrete episodic information to challenge maladaptive beliefs, potentially limiting their therapeutic benefit. Study 1 demonstrated that an episodic specificity induction increased detail and specificity of autobiographical memory in people with major depression, relative to control conditions (N = 88). We therefore examined whether the induction enhanced the efficacy of CBT tasks that depend on episodic memory - cognitive reappraisal (Study 2, N = 30), evidence gathering (Study 2, N = 30), and planning behavioural experiments (Study 3a, N = 30). Across all three tasks, there were no significant differences in emotion- or belief-change between the specificity and control conditions. Although the induction temporarily enhanced specificity in depressed individuals, it did not significantly augment the efficacy of CBT tasks theorised to benefit from the use of specific mnemonic information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Marsh
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Shivam D Patel
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Alicia J Smith
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Melody So
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
| | | | - Rachel Elliott
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
| | | | | | - Tim Dalgleish
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Caitlin Hitchcock
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, UK; Melbourne School of Psychological Science, University of Melbourne, Australia.
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Khanina A, Douglas AP, Yeoh DK, So M, Abbotsford J, Spelman T, Kong DCM, Slavin MA, Thursky KA. Validation of the Antifungal National Antimicrobial Prescribing Survey (AF-NAPS) quality assessment tool. J Antimicrob Chemother 2023:7113313. [PMID: 37038993 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkad085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Antifungal National Antimicrobial Prescribing Survey (AF-NAPS) was developed to undertake streamlined quality audits of antifungal prescribing. The validity and reliability of such tools is not characterized. OBJECTIVES To assess the validity and reliability of the AF-NAPS quality assessment tool. METHODS Case vignettes describing antifungal prescribing were prepared. A steering group was assembled to determine gold-standard classifications for appropriateness and guideline compliance. Infectious diseases physicians, antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) and specialist pharmacists undertook a survey to classify appropriateness and guideline compliance of prescriptions utilizing the AF-NAPS tool. Validity was measured as accuracy, sensitivity and specificity compared with gold standard. Inter-rater reliability was measured using Fleiss' kappa statistics. Assessors' responses and comments were thematically analysed to determine reasons for incorrect classification. RESULTS Twenty-eight clinicians assessed 59 antifungal prescriptions. Overall accuracy of appropriateness assessment was 77.0% (sensitivity 85.3%, specificity 68.0%). Highest accuracy was seen amongst specialist (81%) and AMS pharmacists (79%). Prescriptions with lowest accuracy were in the haematology setting (69%), use of echinocandins (73%), mould-active azoles (75%) and for prophylaxis (71%). Inter-rater reliability was fair overall (0.3906), with moderate reliability amongst specialist pharmacists (0.5304). Barriers to accurate classification were incorrect use of the appropriateness matrix, knowledge gaps and lack of guidelines for some indications. CONCLUSIONS The AF-NAPS is a valid tool, assisting assessors to correctly classify appropriate prescriptions more accurately than inappropriate prescriptions. Specialist and AMS pharmacists had similar performance, providing confidence that both can undertake AF-NAPS audits to a high standard. Identified reasons for incorrect classification will be targeted in the online tool and educational materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Khanina
- The National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - A P Douglas
- The National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - D K Yeoh
- The National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, 15 Hospital Ave, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - M So
- Sinai Health-University Health Network Antimicrobial Stewardship Program, University Health Network, 200 Elizabeth St, Toronto, Ontario M5G 2C4, Canada
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, 144 College St, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - J Abbotsford
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Perth Children's Hospital, 15 Hospital Ave, Nedlands, Western Australia 6009, Australia
| | - T Spelman
- The National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - D C M Kong
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, University of Melbourne, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Pharmacy Department, Ballarat Health Services, 1 Drummond St N, Ballarat Central, Victoria 3350, Australia
- Centre for Medicine Use and Safety, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, 381 Royal Parade, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- School of Medicine, Deakin University, 75 Pigdons Rd, Waurn Ponds, Victoria 3216, Australia
| | - M A Slavin
- The National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
| | - K A Thursky
- The National Centre for Infections in Cancer, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, 305 Grattan St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The National Centre for Antimicrobial Stewardship, University of Melbourne, The Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
- Guidance Group, Royal Melbourne Hospital at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, 792 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
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Patel SD, Esteves CV, So M, Dalgleish T, Hitchcock C. More than meets the eye: emotional stimuli enhance boundary extension effects for both depressed and never-depressed individuals. Cogn Emot 2022; 37:128-136. [PMID: 36537807 DOI: 10.1080/02699931.2022.2155622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Boundary extension is a memory phenomenon in which an individual reports seeing more of a scene than they actually did. We provide the first examination of boundary extension in individuals diagnosed with depression, hypothesising that an overemphasis on pre-existing schema may enhance boundary extension effects on emotional photographs. The relationship between boundary extension and overgeneralisation in autobiographical memory was also explored. Individuals with (n = 42) and without (n = 41) Major Depressive Disorder completed a camera paradigm task utilising positive, negative, and neutral stimuli. Across all participants, positive (d = 0.37) and negative (d = 0.66) stimuli were extended more than neutral stimuli. This effect did not differ between depressed and never-depressed participants. Across all participants, images containing objects were extended more than images containing faces. An association was also evident between extension effects in memory for perceptual space and extensions of autobiographical memory across time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivam D Patel
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carlos V Esteves
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Melody So
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Tim Dalgleish
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Caitlin Hitchcock
- MRC Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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Waibel M, Thomas HE, Wentworth JM, Couper JJ, MacIsaac RJ, Cameron FJ, So M, Krishnamurthy B, Doyle MC, Kay TW. Investigating the efficacy of baricitinib in new onset type 1 diabetes mellitus (BANDIT)—study protocol for a phase 2, randomized, placebo controlled trial. Trials 2022; 23:433. [PMID: 35606820 PMCID: PMC9125350 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06356-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Type 1 diabetes (T1D) places an extraordinary burden on individuals and their families, as well as on the healthcare system. Despite recent advances in glucose sensors and insulin pump technology, only a minority of patients meet their glucose targets and face the risk of both acute and long-term complications, some of which are life-threatening.
The JAK-STAT pathway is critical for the immune-mediated pancreatic beta cell destruction in T1D. Our pre-clinical data show that inhibitors of JAK1/JAK2 prevent diabetes and reverse newly diagnosed diabetes in the T1D non-obese diabetic mouse model. The goal of this study is to determine if the JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor baricitinib impairs type 1 diabetes autoimmunity and preserves beta cell function.
Methods
This will be as a multicentre, two-arm, double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized trial in individuals aged 10–30 years with recent-onset T1D. Eighty-three participants will be randomized in a 2:1 ratio within 100 days of diagnosis to receive either baricitinib 4mg/day or placebo for 48 weeks and then monitored for a further 48 weeks after stopping study drug. The primary outcome is the plasma C-peptide 2h area under the curve following ingestion of a mixed meal. Secondary outcomes include HbA1c, insulin dose, continuous glucose profile and adverse events. Mechanistic assessments will characterize general and diabetes-specific immune responses.
Discussion
This study will determine if baricitinib slows the progressive, immune-mediated loss of beta cell function that occurs after clinical presentation of T1D. Preservation of beta cell function would be expected to improve glucose control and prevent diabetes complications, and justify additional trials of baricitinib combined with other therapies and of its use in at-risk populations to prevent T1D.
Trial registration
ANZCTR ACTRN12620000239965. Registered on 26 February 2020. ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04774224. Registered on 01 March 2021
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Luong M, Silveira F, Morrissey O, Danziger-Isakov L, Verschuuren E, Wolfe C, Hadjiliadis D, Chambers D, Patel J, Dellgren G, So M, Verleden G, Blumberg E, Vos R, Perch M, Holm A, Müller N, Chaparro C, Husain S. Delphipanel on Antimicrobial Stewardship and Management of Clinical Syndromes in Thoracic Organ Transplants and Mechanical Circulatory Device Recipients. J Heart Lung Transplant 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2022.01.1560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
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Pedra Nobre S, Hensley ML, So M, Zhou QC, Iasonos A, Leitao MM, Ducie J, Chiang S, Mueller JJ, Abu-Rustum NR, Zivanovic O. The impact of tumor fragmentation in patients with stage I uterine leiomyosarcoma on patterns of recurrence and oncologic outcome. Gynecol Oncol 2021; 160:99-105. [PMID: 33158511 PMCID: PMC7779751 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2020.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of tumor fragmentation on oncologic outcomes in patients with stage I uterine leiomyosarcoma (uLMS). METHODS We identified all patients diagnosed with stage I uLMS presenting to our institution within three months of primary surgery, 1/2000-1/2019. Patients with recurrent disease were excluded. The non-morcellated group had total hysterectomy without documented specimen fragmentation; the morcellated group, total hysterectomy with documented specimen fragmentation. We defined fragmentation as manual fragmentation or morcellation (via power morcellator or otherwise) of the specimen in peritoneal cavity or vagina. Appropriate statistical analyses were performed. RESULTS 152 patients met inclusion criteria. 107 (70%) underwent total hysterectomy (non-morcellated); 45 (30%) underwent morcellation. Median age at diagnosis for the entire cohort was 55 years (range 30-91). Median follow-up was 42.1 months (range 1.1-197.8). 40 (26.3%) patients had primary surgery at our institution, 112 (73.7%) at an outside hospital. In total 110 (72.3%) recurred: 72/107 (67.2%) non-morcellated; 38/44 (86.3%) morcellated. Median progression-free survival (PFS) for non-morcellated versus morcellated was 13.8 (95%CI 9.2-20.2) versus 7.3 months (95%CI 3-13.1), HR 1.5 (95%CI 1.02-2.24); P = 0.04. Median overall survival (OS) for non-morcellated versus morcellated was 82.1 (95%CI 52.4-122) versus 47.8 months (95%CI 28.5-129.6), HR 1.1 (95%CI 0.67-1.82); P = 0.7. Among patients with recurrence, 69.4% of non-morcellated recurred at hematogenous sites only, 18.1% recurred in peritoneum only; 28.9% of morcellated recurred at hematogenous sites, 63.2% in peritoneum. Race, lymphovascular invasion, postoperative chemotherapy, were independently associated with PFS. Mitotic index was independently associated with OS. CONCLUSIONS Tumor fragmentation/morcellation was associated with significantly higher risk of recurrence and a nearly 4-fold increase in peritoneal recurrence. Prognostic biomarkers remain important in predicting oncologic outcomes, independent of fragmentation or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvana Pedra Nobre
- Gynecology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Martee L Hensley
- Gynecologic Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Joan & Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Melody So
- Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States of America
| | - Qin C Zhou
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Alexia Iasonos
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Joan & Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Mario M Leitao
- Gynecology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Joan & Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Ducie
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Ob/Gyn, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Sarah Chiang
- Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Jennifer J Mueller
- Gynecology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Joan & Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Nadeem R Abu-Rustum
- Gynecology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Joan & Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Oliver Zivanovic
- Gynecology Service, Department of Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, United States of America; Joan & Sanford I. Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, United States of America.
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Palomares KT, Parobchak N, Ithier MC, Aleksunes LM, Castaño PM, So M, Faro R, Heller D, Wang B, Rosen T. Fetal Exosomal Platelet-activating Factor Triggers Functional Progesterone Withdrawal in Human Placenta. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:252-262. [PMID: 32780361 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00283-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In most mammals, labor is heralded by the withdrawal of progesterone. In humans, circulating progesterone levels increase as gestation advances while placental expression of progesterone receptor A (PR-A) declines. As a result of PR-A downregulation, the non-canonical NF-κB pathway is activated, an event implicated in triggering labor. Here, we sought to identify fetal-derived mediator(s) that represses placental PR-A in human placenta leading to activation of pro-labor signaling. Lipidomic profiling demonstrated enrichment of platelet-activating factor (PAF) in exosomes originating from the human fetus. Exposure of primary cytotrophoblasts to fetal exosomes from term pregnancies reduced PR-A expression by > 50%, and PAF also reduced PR-A message levels in a dose-dependent manner. Notably, fetal exosomes from preterm pregnancies had lower PAF levels and no effect on PR-A expression. Synthetic PAF-induced DNA methylation increases by 20% at the PR-A promoter, leading to recruitment of corepressors and downregulation of PR-A in cytotrophoblast. Furthermore, suppression of PR-A by PAF-stimulated expression of the pro-labor genes, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), which was reversed by disruption of the DNA methyltransferases 3B and 3L. Taken together, PAF represents a novel fetal-derived candidate for initiation of labor by stimulating methylation and repression of PR-A and activating pro-labor signaling in trophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristy T Palomares
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Peter's University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Nataliya Parobchak
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Mayra Cruz Ithier
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Lauren M Aleksunes
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, 08854, USA
| | - Paula M Castaño
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, 10032, USA
| | - Melody So
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Revital Faro
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Peter's University Hospital, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA
| | - Debra Heller
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, 07103, USA
| | - Bingbing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
| | - Todd Rosen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, 08901, USA.
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So M, Miyamoto T, Murakami R, Kawahara S, Abiko K, Yamaguchi K, Horie A, Hamanishi J, Kondoh E, Baba T, Mandai M. The efficacy of secondary debulking surgery for recurrent ovarian, tubal and peritoneal cancer in low risk scores in the Tian model. Gynecol Oncol 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2019.04.597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Hybert E, Karlsson A, Wassbjer D, So M, Kloutschek A, Knutsson K, Freitag C, Karlsteen M. Development of system for collection of positional based data for horses. J Vet Behav 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2018.06.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Cabello FC, Cohen SN, Curtiss R, Dougan G, van Embden J, Finlay BB, Heffron F, Helinski D, Hull R, Hull S, Isberg R, Kopecko DJ, Levy S, Mekalanos J, Ortiz JM, Rappuoli R, Roberts MC, So M, Timmis KN. Farewell Stan Stanley Falkow: 1934-2018. Environ Microbiol 2018; 20:2322-2333. [PMID: 30146753 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.14308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- F C Cabello
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - S N Cohen
- Department of Genetics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - R Curtiss
- Departments of Infectious Diseases and Immunology and Comparative, Diagnostic and Population Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - G Dougan
- Microbial Pathogenesis Group, Welcome Sanger Institute, Hinxton, UK
| | - J van Embden
- Division of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - B B Finlay
- Michael Smith Laboratories, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - F Heffron
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - D Helinski
- Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - R Hull
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - S Hull
- Department of Molecular Virology and Microbiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - R Isberg
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - S Levy
- Department of Molecular Biology and Microbiology, Tufts University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J Mekalanos
- Department of Microbiology and Immunobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - J M Ortiz
- Departamento de Biologia Molecular, Universidad de Cantabria, Santander, Spain
| | | | - M C Roberts
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - M So
- Department of Immunobiology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - K N Timmis
- Institute of Microbiology, Technical University of Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
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So M, Mamdani MM, Morris AM, Lau TTY, Broady R, Deotare U, Grant J, Kim D, Schimmer AD, Schuh AC, Shajari S, Steinberg M, Bell CM, Husain S. Effect of an antimicrobial stewardship programme on antimicrobial utilisation and costs in patients with leukaemia: a retrospective controlled study. Clin Microbiol Infect 2017; 24:882-888. [PMID: 29138099 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2017.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the effectiveness of an antimicrobial stewardship programme on utilization and cost of antimicrobials in leukaemia patients in Canada. METHODS We conducted a multisite retrospective observational time series study from 2005 to 2013. We implemented academic detailing as the intervention of an antimicrobial stewardship programme in leukaemia units at a hospital, piloted February-July 2010, then fully implemented December 2010-March 2013, with no intervention in August-November 2010. Internal control was the same hospital's allogeneic haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation unit. External control was the combined leukaemia-haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation unit at another hospital. Primary outcome was antimicrobial utilization (antibiotics and antifungals) in defined daily dose per 100 patient-days (PD). Secondary outcomes were antimicrobial cost (Canadian dollars per PD); cost and utilization by drug class; length of stay; 30-day inpatient mortality; and nosocomial Clostridium difficile infection. We used autoregressive integrated moving average models to evaluate the impact of the intervention on outcomes. RESULTS The intervention group included 1006 patients before implementation and 335 during full implementation. Correspondingly, internal control had 723 and 264 patients, external control 1395 and 864 patients. Antimicrobial utilization decreased significantly in the intervention group (p <0.01, 278 vs. 247 defined daily dose per 100 PD), increased in external control (p = 0.02, 237.4 vs. 268.9 defined daily dose per 100 PD) and remained stable in internal control (p = 0.66). Antimicrobial cost decreased in the intervention group (p = 0.03; $154.59 per PD vs. $128.93 per PD), increased in external control (p = 0.01; $109.4 per PD vs. $135.97 per PD) but was stable in internal control (p = 0.27). Mortality, length of stay and nosocomial C. difficile rate in intervention group remained stable. CONCLUSIONS The antimicrobial stewardship programme reduced antimicrobial use in leukaemia patients without affecting inpatient mortality and length of stay.
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Affiliation(s)
- M So
- University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - M M Mamdani
- Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; St Michael's Hospital Li Ka Shing Centre for Healthcare Analytics Research and Training, Toronto, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Canada
| | - A M Morris
- University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Sinai Health System, Toronto, Canada
| | - T T Y Lau
- Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, Canada; Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - R Broady
- Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - U Deotare
- University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - J Grant
- Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - D Kim
- University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - A D Schimmer
- University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - A C Schuh
- University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - S Shajari
- Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, Canada
| | | | - C M Bell
- University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Institute for Clinical Evaluative Sciences, Toronto, Canada; Sinai Health System, Toronto, Canada
| | - S Husain
- University Health Network, Toronto, Canada; Department of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Ikenaka K, Aguirre C, Araki K, So M, Kakuda K, Nagano S, Hideki M. Structural variations in αSyn fibrils of Parkinson’s disease and related disorders. J Neurol Sci 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.08.995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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15
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Yang H, So M, Fierro F, Stewart H, Vu Nguyen A, Soulika A, Nolta J, Isseroff R. 928 Combination bioengineered wound scaffolds containing timolol-preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells promote wound healing in diabetic mice. J Invest Dermatol 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2017.02.955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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16
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Saito R, So M, Motojima Y, Matsuura T, Yoshimura M, Hashimoto H, Yamamoto Y, Kusuhara K, Ueta Y. Activation of Nesfatin-1-Containing Neurones in the Hypothalamus and Brainstem by Peripheral Administration of Anorectic Hormones and Suppression of Feeding via Central Nesfatin-1 in Rats. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28. [PMID: 27203571 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Revised: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral anorectic hormones, such as glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1, cholecystokinin (CCK)-8 and leptin, suppress food intake. The newly-identified anorectic neuropeptide, nesfatin-1, is synthesised in both peripheral tissues and the central nervous system, particularly by various nuclei in the hypothalamus and brainstem. In the present study, we examined the effects of i.p. administration of GLP-1 and CCK-8 and co-administrations of GLP-1 and leptin at subthreshold doses as confirmed by measurement of food intake, on nesfatin-1-immunoreactive (-IR) neurones in the hypothalamus and brainstem of rats by Fos immunohistochemistry. Intraperitoneal administration of GLP-1 (100 μg/kg) caused significant increases in the number of nesfatin-1-IR neurones expressing Fos-immunoreactivity in the supraoptic nucleus (SON), the area postrema (AP) and the nucleus tractus solitarii (NTS) but not in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN), the arcuate nucleus (ARC) or the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA). On the other hand, i.p. administration of CCK-8 (50 μg/kg) resulted in marked increases in the number of nesfatin-1-IR neurones expressing Fos-immunoreactivity in the SON, PVN, AP and NTS but not in the ARC or LHA. No differences in the percentage of nesfatin-1-IR neurones expressing Fos-immunoreactivity in the nuclei of the hypothalamus and brainstem were observed between rats treated with saline, GLP-1 (33 μg/kg) or leptin. However, co-administration of GLP-1 (33 μg/kg) and leptin resulted in significant increases in the number of nesfatin-1-IR neurones expressing Fos-immunoreactivity in the AP and the NTS. Furthermore, decreased food intake induced by GLP-1, CCK-8 and leptin was attenuated significantly by pretreatment with i.c.v. administration of antisense nesfatin-1. These results indicate that nesfatin-1-expressing neurones in the brainstem may play an important role in sensing peripheral levels of GLP-1 and leptin in addition to CCK-8, and also suppress food intake in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Saito
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - M So
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Y Motojima
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - T Matsuura
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - M Yoshimura
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - H Hashimoto
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Y Yamamoto
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - K Kusuhara
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
| | - Y Ueta
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Kitakyushu, Japan
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Yoshimura S, Miyazu M, Yoshizawa S, So M, Kusama N, Hirate H, Sobue K. Efficacy of an enteral feeding protocol for providing nutritional support after paediatric cardiac surgery. Anaesth Intensive Care 2015; 43:587-93. [PMID: 26310408 DOI: 10.1177/0310057x1504300506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Enteral nutrition (EN) is considered to be a more appropriate method than parenteral feeding for providing nutrition to critically ill children. However, children who undergo cardiac surgery are at high risk of postoperative gastrointestinal complications during EN. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of our EN feeding protocol after paediatric cardiac surgery through comparison between a single-centre prospective case series and historical cases. Forty-seven children who were admitted to the ICU after cardiac surgery were enrolled ('post group'). Data for these children were compared with a similar cohort of children who were admitted before the implementation of the feeding protocol (n=62; 'pre group'). The incidence of complications including vomiting, necrotising enterocolitis and hypoglycaemia; the time until the initiation of EN; and the changes in calories provided were compared between the groups. The frequency of vomiting was significantly lower in the post group than in the pre group (36.2% versus 58.0%, P=0.038), and necrotising enterocolitis did not occur in either group. The time until the initiation of EN and the total calories provided did not differ significantly; however, in the post group the proportion of energy provided by parenteral nutrition was significantly smaller (P <0.001), and provided by EN was significantly larger (P=0.003), than in the pre group. The frequency of hypoglycaemia was similar in both groups. This study showed that our EN protocol resulted in adjustments to calories provided via EN versus parenteral nutrition after paediatric cardiac surgery, and reduced the frequency of vomiting.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Yoshimura
- Anaesthetist, Department of Anesthesiology and Medical Crisis Management, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - M Miyazu
- Anaesthetist, Department of Anesthesiology and Medical Crisis Management, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - S Yoshizawa
- Research Assistant, Department of Anesthesiology and Medical Crisis Management, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - M So
- Anaesthetist, Department of Anesthesiology and Medical Crisis Management, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - N Kusama
- Assistant Professor, Department of Anesthesiology and Medical Crisis Management, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - H Hirate
- Assistant Professor, Department of Anesthesiology and Medical Crisis Management, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
| | - K Sobue
- Professor, Department of Anesthesiology and Medical Crisis Management, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya, Japan
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Takahashi K, Abe R, Usuki S, So M. Safety and efficacy of once-daily modified-release tacrolimus in kidney transplant recipients: interim analysis of multicenter postmarketing surveillance in Japan. Transplant Proc 2014; 46:406-10. [PMID: 24655975 DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2013.11.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Modified-release formulation of tacrolimus (TAC-MR) has been developed with the intent of improving patient adherence and quality of life. A number of studies have indicated that the efficacy and safety of once-daily TAC-MR were comparable with those of the original formulation, twice-daily TAC. However, its dosage, trough level, safety, and efficacy in the multicenter clinical experience of Japanese kidney transplant recipients have not been reported. METHODS This post-marketing surveillance designed as an open-label, prospective, noncomparative, noninterventional observational study was performed. The 256 patients were enrolled for de novo transplantation, and the 106 patients were enrolled for conversion to TAC-MR from 52 medical institutions in Japan. The follow-up period in de novo transplantation was 5 years, but here we report the results of the 24-week interim analysis. The observation period in conversion was 24 weeks. RESULTS Regarding de novo transplantation, the median daily TAC-MR dose was 0.150 mg/kg/d at the initial administration and the median TAC trough level was 12.1 ng/mL at 3 days. The common adverse drug reactions were infections, renal disorders, and glucose tolerance disorders at incidence rates of 23.6%, 6.8%, and 5.6%, respectively. Both patient and graft survival rates at 24 weeks were 98.2% and the rejection rate was 16.1%. Regarding conversion to TAC-MR, the median conventional TAC dose before conversion was 3.2 mg/d, and the median TAC-MR dose at the converted day was 3.2 mg/d. The median TAC trough level was 5.4 ng/mL before conversion, and it was 5.2 ng/mL after conversion. The most common adverse drug reactions were infections at an incidence rate of 4.9%. There was 1 graft loss and death, and there was 1 episode of rejection. CONCLUSION This interim analysis shows that a TAC-MR-based immunosuppressive regimen is safe and effective as used in Japanese clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Takahashi
- Department of Regenerative and Transplant Medicine, Niigata University, Nigata, Japan
| | - R Abe
- Medical Affairs, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tokyo, Japan.
| | - S Usuki
- Medical Affairs, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tokyo, Japan
| | - M So
- Medical Affairs, Astellas Pharma Inc., Tokyo, Japan
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Dolma S, So M, Voisin V, Zhu X, Head R, Clarke I, Bader G, Tyers M, Dirks P. SC-05 * DOPAMINE RECEPTOR ANTAGONISTS ARE SELECTIVE INHIBITORS OF GLIOBLASTOMA STEM CELLS THROUGH IMPAIRMENT OF AUTOPHAGY. Neuro Oncol 2014. [DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/nou275.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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20
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Uemoto S, Abe R, Horike H, So M. Safety and Efficacy of Once-Daily Modified-Release Tacrolimus in Liver Transplant Recipients: A Multicenter Postmarketing Surveillance in Japan. Transplant Proc 2014; 46:749-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.transproceed.2013.11.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2013] [Accepted: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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21
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Abstract
Sponge carrier media provide a large surface area for biofilm support; however, little information is known about how to model their dual nature as a moving bed and as porous media. To investigate the interaction of mass transfer and detachment with bio-clogging, a novel biofilm model framework was built based on individual-based modelling, and hydrodynamics were modelled using the lattice Boltzmann method. The combined model structure enabled the simulation of oxygen and biomass distribution inside the porous network as well as inside the biofilm. In order to apply the model to moving bed biofilm reactors (MBBR), biofilm detachment due to abrasion (carrier collisions) was modelled to be dependent on intracarrier distance. In the initial growth stage, biofilm grew homogeneously on the internal skeleton after which a more discontinuous growth developed which significantly increased permeability. Low detachment rates caused clogging in the outer pores which limited growth of biofilm to the surface region of the sponge. High detachment rates on the surface enabled deeper oxygen penetration with higher internal biomass activity. The degree of clogging was also sensitive to the presence of extracellular polymeric substances because of its large spatial occupancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M So
- Faculty of Environment Engineering, University of Kitakyushu, 1-1, Hibikino, Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu, 808-0135, Japan E-mail:
| | - D Naka
- Faculty of Environment Engineering, University of Kitakyushu, 1-1, Hibikino, Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu, 808-0135, Japan E-mail:
| | - R Goel
- Hydromantis Environmental Software Solutions, Inc., Suite 1601, 1 James Street South, Hamilton, Ontario, L8P4R5, Canada
| | - M Terashima
- Faculty of Environment Engineering, University of Kitakyushu, 1-1, Hibikino, Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu, 808-0135, Japan E-mail:
| | - H Yasui
- Faculty of Environment Engineering, University of Kitakyushu, 1-1, Hibikino, Wakamatsu-ku, Kitakyushu, 808-0135, Japan E-mail:
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22
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Hancock Friesen C, So M, Lee T. 127 Innate immune effectors are necessary and sufficient to cause early post transplant failure of medial smooth muscle cell recovery in murine aortic allografts. Can J Cardiol 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2011.07.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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23
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Pimenta A, Gaidhu M, Habib S, So M, Fediuc S, Mirpourian M, Musheev M, Curi R, Ceddia R. Prolonged exposure to palmitate impairs fatty acid oxidation despite activation of AMP-activated protein kinase in skeletal muscle cells. J Cell Physiol 2008; 217:478-85. [DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Garcia-Barceló MM, Lau DK, Ngan ES, Leon TY, Liu T, So M, Miao X, Lui VC, Wong KK, Ganster RW, Cass DT, Croaker GDH, Tam PK. Evaluation of the NK2 homeobox 1 gene (NKX2-1) as a Hirschsprung's disease locus. Ann Hum Genet 2007; 72:170-7. [PMID: 18081917 DOI: 10.1111/j.1469-1809.2007.00403.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hirschsprung's disease (HSCR, colonic aganglionosis) is an oligogenic entity that usually requires mutations in RET and other interacting loci. Decreased levels of RET expression may lead to the manifestation of HSCR. We previously showed that RET transcription was decreased due to alteration of the NKX2-1 binding site by two HSCR-associated RET promoter single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This prompted us to investigate whether DNA alterations in NKX2-1 could play a role in HSCR by affecting the RET-regulatory properties of the NKX2-1 protein. Our initial study on 86 Chinese HSCR patients revealed a Gly322Ser amino acid substitution in the NKX2-1 protein. In this study, we have examined 102 additional Chinese and 70 Caucasian patients and 194 Chinese and 60 Caucasian unselected, unrelated, subjects as controls. The relevance of the DNA changes detected in NKX2-1 by direct sequencing were evaluated using bioinformatics, reporter and binding-assays, mouse neurosphere culture, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence techniques. Met3Leu and Pro48Pro were identified in 2 Caucasian and 1 Chinese patients respectively. In vitro analysis showed that Met3Leu reduced the activity of the RET promoter by 100% in the presence of the wild-type or HSCR-associated RET promoter SNP alleles. The apparent binding affinity of the NKX2-1 mutated protein was not decreased. The Met3Leu mutation may affect the interaction of NKX2-1 with its protein partners. The absence of NKX2-1 expression in mouse but not in human gut suggests that the role of NKX2-1 in gut development differs between the two species. NKX2-1 mutations could contribute to HSCR by affecting RET expression through defective interactions with other transcription factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M-M Garcia-Barceló
- Division of Paediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Ito H, Sobue K, So M, Hirate H, Sugiura T, Azami T, Fujita Y, Sasano H, Katsuya H. Intra-operative monitoring of vagal nerve activity with wire electrodes. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand 2006; 50:1304-5. [PMID: 17067331 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-6576.2006.01159.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
A monitoring system for tracking the electromyogram (EMG) of the vocal cords with wire electrodes embedded in an endotracheal tube was designed to identify the recurrent laryngeal nerve during thyroidectomy. Our recent experience in two cases suggests that vagal nerve activity can be correctly detected by recording of the EMG of the vocal cords using a special endotracheal tube embedded with wire electrodes.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Ito
- Department of Anesthesiology and Medical Crisis Management, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Japan
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Ito H, Sobue K, So M, Hirate H, Azami T, Sasano H, Katsuya H. Bilateral independent high-frequency jet ventilation for intra-operative airway management of repair of congenital tracheal stenosis. Anaesth Intensive Care 2006; 34:683-4. [PMID: 17063577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
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Ito H, Sobue K, So M, Hirate H, Sasano H, Katsuya H. Successful intubation of a reconstructed trachea using the Parker Flex-Tip tube. Acta Anaesthesiol Scand 2006; 50:901. [PMID: 16879483 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399-6576.2006.01081.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Murthi P, So M, Gude NM, Doherty VL, Brennecke SP, Kalionis B. Homeobox genes are differentially expressed in macrovascular human umbilical vein endothelial cells and microvascular placental endothelial cells. Placenta 2006; 28:219-23. [PMID: 16647116 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2006.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2005] [Revised: 02/27/2006] [Accepted: 02/27/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Angiogenesis is fundamental to normal placental development. Aberrant angiogenesis within the placental terminal villi is a characteristic of significant placental pathologies and includes structural and vascular abnormalities as well as altered endothelial cell function, which substantially impacts on maternal-fetal exchange. Homeobox gene transcription factors regulate vascular development in embryonic and adult tissues, but their role in the placental microvasculature is not well known. In this study, we isolated and enriched human placental microvascular endothelial cells (PLEC) by a perfusion-based method and compared homeobox gene expression between PLEC and macrovascular human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Reverse transcriptase PCR detected mRNA expression of homeobox genes DLX3, DLX4, MSX2, GAX and HLX1 in both PLEC and HUVEC. DLX4 and HLX1 have not been previously detected in PLEC and with the exception of GAX, none of these homeobox genes have been previously identified in HUVEC. There was lower expression of HLX1 mRNA in HUVEC compared with PLEC. Using real-time PCR analysis PLEC HLX1 mRNA expression relative to housekeeping gene GAPDH was 0.9+/-0.06 fold of the calibrator (n=6) versus 0.2+/-0.06 (n=6) for HUVEC, p<0.001. These data provided evidence of heterogeneity in homeobox gene expression between microvascular PLEC and macrovascular HUVEC that most likely reflects significant differences in endothelial cell function in the two different cellular environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Murthi
- Pregnancy Research Centre, Department of Perinatal Medicine, The Royal Women's Hospital, Carlton, Victoria 3053, Australia.
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Ayala BP, Vasquez B, Clary S, Tainer JA, Rodland K, So M. The pilus-induced Ca2+ flux triggers lysosome exocytosis and increases the amount of Lamp1 accessible to Neisseria IgA1 protease. Cell Microbiol 2001; 3:265-75. [PMID: 11298650 DOI: 10.1046/j.1462-5822.2001.00112.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The IgA1 protease secreted by the pathogenic Neisseriae cleaves Lamp1, a major integral membrane glycoprotein of lysosomes, and significantly reduces its steady-state levels in an infected cell. IgA1 protease hydrolysis of Lamp1 is inefficient at the low pH of lysosomes, strongly suggesting that the enzyme is unlikely to reduce Lamp1 levels within lysosomes to any appreciable extent. We therefore explored the possibility that the protease may reach Lamp1 through an alternative route. We demonstrate that Neisseria pili induce a transient increase in the levels of cytosolic free Ca2+ in A431 human epithelial cells, as demonstrated previously for ME180 cells. This Ca2+ flux triggers lysosome exocytosis, quickly altering the cellular distribution of Lamp1 and increasing surface Lamp1 levels. Finally, we demonstrate that surface Lamp1 is cleaved by IgA1 protease secreted by adherent bacteria. We conclude that the pilus-induced Ca2+ flux increases the amount of Lamp1 that is cleavable by the IgA1 protease.
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Affiliation(s)
- B P Ayala
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, 3181 SW Sam Jackson Park Road, Portland, OR 97201-3098, USA.
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Abstract
The closely related bacterial pathogens Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonococci, GC) and N. meningitidis (meningococci, MC) initiate infection at human mucosal epithelia. Colonization begins at apical epithelial surfaces with a multistep adhesion cascade, followed by invasion of the host cell, intracellular persistence, transcytosis, and exit. These activities are modulated by the interaction of a panoply of virulence factors with their cognate host cell receptors, and signals are sent from pathogen to host and host to pathogen at multiple stages of the adhesion cascade. Recent advances place us on the verge of understanding the colonization process at a molecular level of detail. In this review we describe the Neisseria virulence factors in the context of epithelial cell biology, placing special emphasis on the signaling functions of type IV pili, pilus-based twitching motility, and the Opa and Opc outermembrane adhesin/invasin proteins. We also summarize what is known about bacterial intracellular trafficking and growth. With the accelerated integration of tools from cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, and genomics, experimentation in the next few years should bring unprecedented insights into the interactions of Neisseriae with their host.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Merz
- Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology, L220, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon 97201-3098, USA
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Abstract
Twitching and social gliding motility allow many gram negative bacteria to crawl along surfaces, and are implicated in a wide range of biological functions. Type IV pili (Tfp) are required for twitching and social gliding, but the mechanism by which these filaments promote motility has remained enigmatic. Here we use laser tweezers to show that Tfp forcefully retract. Neisseria gonorrhoeae cells that produce Tfp actively crawl on a glass surface and form adherent microcolonies. When laser tweezers are used to place and hold cells near a microcolony, retractile forces pull the cells toward the microcolony. In quantitative experiments, the Tfp of immobilized bacteria bind to latex beads and retract, pulling beads from the tweezers at forces that can exceed 80 pN. Episodes of retraction terminate with release or breakage of the Tfp tether. Both motility and retraction mediated by Tfp occur at about 1 microm s(-1) and require protein synthesis and function of the PilT protein. Our experiments establish that Tfp filaments retract, generate substantial force and directly mediate cell movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Merz
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098, USA
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32
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Unless clinicians are forced by funds providers to use outcomes measures, clinicians will choose to use them only if the value they provide is commensurate with the administration time required. This study was designed to determine which aspects of outcomes measures encouraged clinicians to use them and which aspects discouraged clinicians from using them. DESIGN Clinicians who had used one or more outcomes measures were surveyed using a reasonably open-ended survey. Comments were analyzed by categorising them and counting the number of comments within each category. RESULTS Aspects that were most valued included determining the clients' goals and expectations at the outset of the rehabilitation program, as well as measures of improvement and of residual hearing difficulties at the end of the program. Aspects that most discouraged the use of outcomes measures included collection or recording of information that the clinician would prefer to collect and record in other ways, and an excessive amount of time to administer. CONCLUSION To maximize the adoption of outcomes measures by clinicians, the tools should provide information in addition to a simple quantification of benefit. For example, this might comprise information about clients' initial goals and/or expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Dillon
- National Acoustic Laboratories, Chatswood, Australia
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33
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Abstract
Iron is an essential element for nearly all organisms. In mammals, iron is transported to body tissues by the serum glycoprotein transferrin. Transferrin-iron is internalized by binding to specific receptors followed by endocytosis. In vitro, Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae can use iron from a variety of iron-containing compounds, including human transferrin. In vivo, transferrin is an important source of iron for N. gonorrhoeae: a mutant that is unable to bind and use transferrin-iron is unable to colonize the urethra of men or initiate disease at this site. As pathogenic Neisseria and its human host derive much of their iron from transferrin, we reasoned that a competition may exist between microbe and host epithelial cells for transferrin-iron at certain stages of infection. We therefore tested the hypothesis that N. meningitidis and N. gonorrhoeae may actively interfere with host transferrin-iron metabolism. We report that Neisseria-infected human epithelial cells have reduced levels of transferrin receptor messenger RNA and cycling transferrin receptors. The ability of infected cells to internalize transferrin receptor is also reduced. Finally, the relative distribution of surface and cycling transferrin receptors is altered in an infected cell. We conclude that Neisseria infection alters epithelial cell transferrin-iron homeostasis at multiple levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Bonnah
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098, USA.
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Hopper S, Wilbur JS, Vasquez BL, Larson J, Clary S, Mehr IJ, Seifert HS, So M. Isolation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae mutants that show enhanced trafficking across polarized T84 epithelial monolayers. Infect Immun 2000; 68:896-905. [PMID: 10639460 PMCID: PMC97219 DOI: 10.1128/iai.68.2.896-905.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Initiation of a gonococcal infection involves attachment of Neisseria gonorrhoeae to the plasma membrane of an epithelial cell in the mucosal epithelium and its internalization, transepithelial trafficking, and exocytosis from the basal membrane. Piliation and expression of certain Opa proteins and the immunoglobulin A1 protease influence the transcytosis process. We are interested in identifying other genetic determinants of N. gonorrhoeae that play a role in transcellular trafficking. Using polarized T84 monolayers as a model epithelial barrier, we have assayed an N. gonorrhoeae FA1090 minitransposon (mTn) mutant bank for isolates that traverse the monolayer more quickly than the isogenic wild-type (WT) strain. From an initial screen, we isolated four mutants, defining three genetic loci, that traverse monolayers significantly more quickly than their WT parent strain. These mutants adhere to and invade cells normally and do not affect the integrity of the monolayer barrier. Backcrosses of the mutations into the WT FA1090 strain yielded mutants with a similar fast-trafficking phenotype. In two mutants, the mTns had inserted 370 bp apart into the same locus, which we have named fit, for fast intracellular trafficker. Backcrosses of one of these mutants into the MS11A genetic background also yielded a fast-trafficking mutant. The fit locus contains two overlapping open reading frames, fitA and fitB, whose deduced amino acid sequences have predicted molecular weights of 8.6 and 15.3, respectively. Neither protein contains a signal sequence. FitA has a potential helix-turn-helix motif, while the deduced sequence of FitB offers no clues to its function. fitA or fitB homologues are present in the genomes of Pseudomonas syringae and Rhizobium meliloti, but not Neisseria meningitidis. Replication of the MS11A fitA mutant in A431 and T84 cells is significantly accelerated compared to that of the isogenic WT strain. In contrast, growth of this mutant in liquid media is normal. Taken together, these results strongly suggest that traversal of N. gonorrhoeae across an epithelial barrier is linked to intracellular bacterial growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hopper
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon 97201-3098, USA.
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35
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Hopper S, Vasquez B, Merz A, Clary S, Wilbur JS, So M. Effects of the immunoglobulin A1 protease on Neisseria gonorrhoeae trafficking across polarized T84 epithelial monolayers. Infect Immun 2000; 68:906-11. [PMID: 10639461 PMCID: PMC97220 DOI: 10.1128/iai.68.2.906-911.2000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/1999] [Accepted: 10/29/1999] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously demonstrated that the Neisseria IgA1 protease cleaves LAMP1 (lysosome-associated membrane protein 1), a major integral membrane glycoprotein of lysosomes, thereby accelerating its degradation rate in infected A431 human epidermoid carcinoma cells and resulting in the alteration of lysosomes in these cells. In this study, we determined whether the IgA1 protease also affects the trafficking of Neisseria gonorrhoeae across polarized T84 epithelial monolayers. We report that N. gonorrhoeae infection of T84 monolayers, grown on a solid substrate or polarized on semiporous membranes, also results in IgA1 protease-mediated reduction of LAMP1. We demonstrate that iga mutants in two genetic backgrounds exited polarized T84 monolayers in fewer numbers than the corresponding wild-type strains. Finally, we present evidence that these mutants have a statistically significant and reproducible defect in their ability to traverse T84 monolayers. These results add to our previous data by showing that the IgA1 protease alters lysosomal content in polarized as well as unpolarized cells and by demonstrating a role for the protease in the traversal of epithelial barriers by N. gonorrhoeae.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Hopper
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon 97201-3098, USA.
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36
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Abstract
The pathogenic Neisseriae Neisseria meningitidis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, initiate colonization by attaching to host cells using type IV pili. Subsequent adhesive interactions are mediated through the binding of other bacterial adhesins, in particular the Opa family of outer membrane proteins. Here, we have shown that pilus-mediated adhesion to host cells by either meningococci or gonococci triggers the rapid, localized formation of dramatic cortical plaques in host epithelial cells. Cortical plaques are enriched in both components of the cortical cytoskeleton and a subset of integral membrane proteins. These include: CD44v3, a heparan sulphate proteoglycan that may serve as an Opa receptor; EGFR, a receptor tyrosine kinase; CD44 and ICAM-1, adhesion molecules known to mediate inflammatory responses; f-actin; and ezrin, a component that tethers membrane components to the actin cytoskeleton. Genetic analyses reveal that cortical plaque formation is highly adhesin specific. Both pilE and pilC null mutants fail to induce cortical plaques, indicating that neisserial type IV pili are required for cortical plaque induction. Mutations in pilT, a gene required for pilus-mediated twitching motility, confer a partial defect in cortical plaque formation. In contrast to type IV pili, many other neisserial surface structures are not involved in cortical plaque induction, including Opa, Opc, glycolipid GgO4-binding adhesins, polysialic acid capsule or a particular lipooligosaccharide variant. Furthermore, it is shown that type IV pili allow gonococci to overcome the inhibitory effect of heparin, a soluble receptor analogue, on gonococcal invasion of Chang and A431 epithelial cells. These and other observations strongly suggest that type IV pili play an active role in initiating neisserial infection of the mucosal surface in vivo. The functions of type IV pili and other neisserial adhesins are discussed in the specific context of the mucosal microenvironment, and a multistep model for neisserial colonization of mucosal epithelia is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Merz
- Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, 97201-3098, USA.
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37
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38
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Steger KK, Valentine PJ, Heffron F, So M, Pauza CD. Recombinant, attenuated Salmonella typhimurium stimulate lymphoproliferative responses to SIV capsid antigen in rhesus macaques. Vaccine 1999; 17:923-32. [PMID: 10067699 DOI: 10.1016/s0264-410x(98)00278-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Recombinant bacteria are useful vectors for delivering foreign antigens to mucosal surfaces and may elicit immune protection against sexually-transmitted pathogens. Recombinant, attenuated Salmonella typhimurium expressing the Simian Immunodeficiency Virus capsid protein (p27) were given to rhesus macaques by intragastric intubation. This route of immunization was compared with intramuscular injection of soluble p27 in adjuvant, and with immunization protocols that combined intragastric and intramuscular antigen exposures. Recombinant Salmonella stimulated p27-specific lymphoproliferative responses that were present transiently in peripheral blood, and were recalled easily by booster immunizations. Intramuscular p27 injection elicited strong serum antibody responses, but only low level capsid-specific proliferative responses. Recombinant Salmonella immunization elicited low levels of p27-specific antibodies in serum and did not suppress subsequent responses to parenteral immunization. Intragastric immunization of macaques with recombinant Salmonella typhimurium was safe and induced immune responses specific for the expressed, foreign antigen.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antibodies, Bacterial/biosynthesis
- Antibodies, Bacterial/blood
- Antibody Specificity
- Bacterial Vaccines/genetics
- Bacterial Vaccines/immunology
- Bacterial Vaccines/pharmacology
- Epitopes/immunology
- Female
- Gene Products, gag/immunology
- Immunoglobulin G/biosynthesis
- Immunoglobulin G/blood
- Lymphocyte Activation/immunology
- Macaca mulatta
- Male
- Salmonella Infections, Animal/blood
- Salmonella Infections, Animal/immunology
- Salmonella typhimurium/genetics
- Salmonella typhimurium/immunology
- Simian Immunodeficiency Virus/immunology
- Vaccines, Attenuated/genetics
- Vaccines, Attenuated/immunology
- Vaccines, Attenuated/pharmacology
- Vaccines, Synthetic/genetics
- Vaccines, Synthetic/immunology
- Vaccines, Synthetic/pharmacology
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Affiliation(s)
- K K Steger
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin Medical School, Madison, USA
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39
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Arvidson CG, Kirkpatrick R, Witkamp MT, Larson JA, Schipper CA, Waldbeser LS, O'Gaora P, Cooper M, So M. Neisseria gonorrhoeae mutants altered in toxicity to human fallopian tubes and molecular characterization of the genetic locus involved. Infect Immun 1999; 67:643-52. [PMID: 9916071 PMCID: PMC96367 DOI: 10.1128/iai.67.2.643-652.1999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
In an effort to identify potential cytotoxins expressed by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, we have identified a locus that, when mutated in the gonococcus, results in a significant increase in toxicity of the strain to human fallopian tube organ cultures (HFTOC). This locus, gly1, contains two open reading frames (ORFs) which are likely cotranscribed. ORF1 encodes a polypeptide of 17.8 kDa with a signal sequence that is recognized and processed in Escherichia coli and N. gonorrhoeae. The 15.6-kDa processed polypeptide has been observed in membrane fractions and filtered spent media from cultures of E. coli expressing gly1 and in outer membrane preparations of wild-type N. gonorrhoeae. The gly1 locus is not essential for bacterial survival, and it does not play a detectable role in epithelial cell adhesion, invasion, or intracellular survival. However, a gly1 null mutant causes much more damage to fallopian tube tissues than its isogenic wild-type parent. A strain complemented in trans for the gly1 mutation showed a level of toxicity to HFTOC similar to the level elicited by the wild-type parent. Taken together, these results indicate an involvement of the gly1 locus in the toxicity of N. gonorrhoeae to human fallopian tubes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Arvidson
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon 97201, USA.
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40
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Abstract
The pilA gene of Neisseria gonorrhoeae was initially identified in a screen for transcriptional regulators of pilE, the expression locus for pilin, the major structural component of gonococcal pili. The predicted protein sequence for PilA has significant homology to two GTPases of the mammalian signal recognition particle (SRP), SRP54 and SRalpha. Homologs of SRP54 and SRalpha were subsequently identified in bacteria (Ffh and FtsY, respectively) and appear to form an SRP-like apparatus in prokaryotes. Of the two proteins, PilA is the most similar to FtsY (47% identical and 67% similar at the amino acid level). Like FtsY, PilA is essential for viability and hydrolyzes GTP. The similarities between PilA and the bacterial FtsY led us to ask whether PilA might function as the gonococcal FtsY. In this work, we show that overproduction of PilA in Escherichia coli leads to an accumulation of pre-beta-lactamase, similar to previous observations with other bacterial SRP components. Low-level expression of pilA in an ftsY conditional mutant can complement the ftsY mutation and restore normal growth to this strain under nonpermissive conditions. In addition, purified PilA can replace FtsY in an in vitro translocation assay using purified E. coli SRP components. A PilA mutant that is severely affected in its GTPase activity cannot replace FtsY in vivo or in vitro. However, overexpression of the GTPase mutant leads to the accumulation of pre-beta-lactamase, suggesting that the mutant protein may interact with the SRP apparatus to affect protein maturation. Taken together, these results show that the gonococcal PilA is an FtsY homolog and that the GTPase activity is necessary for its function.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Arvidson
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, L220, Portland, Oregon 97201-3098, USA. arvidson@ohsu
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41
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Ayala P, Lin L, Hopper S, Fukuda M, So M. Infection of epithelial cells by pathogenic neisseriae reduces the levels of multiple lysosomal constituents. Infect Immun 1998; 66:5001-7. [PMID: 9746610 PMCID: PMC108621 DOI: 10.1128/iai.66.10.5001-5007.1998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/1998] [Accepted: 06/29/1998] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Members of our group reported recently that neisseria infection of human epithelial cells results in accelerated degradation of the major lysosomal integral membrane protein LAMP1 and that this is due to hydrolysis of this glycoprotein at its immunoglobulin A1 (IgA1)-like hinge by the neisseria type 2 IgA1 protease (L. Lin et al., Mol. Microbiol. 24:1083-1094, 1997). We also reported that the IgA1 protease plays a major role in the ability of the pathogenic neisseriae to survive within epithelial cells and hypothesized that this is due to alteration of lysosomes as a result of protease-mediated LAMP1 degradation. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that neisseria infection leads to multiple changes in lysosomes. Here, we report that neisseria infection also reduces the levels of three other lysosomal markers: LAMP2, lysosomal acid phosphatase (LAP), and CD63. In contrast, neither the epidermal growth factor receptor level nor the beta-tubulin level is affected. A detailed examination of LAMP2 indicated that the reduced LAMP2 levels are not the result of an altered biosynthetic rate or of cleavage by the IgA1 protease. Nevertheless, the protease plays a role in reducing LAMP2 and LAP activity levels, as these are partially restored in cells infected with an iga mutant. We conclude that neisseria infection results in multiple changes to the lysosomes of infected epithelial cells and that these changes are likely an indirect result of IgA1 protease-mediated cleavage of LAMP1.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Ayala
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, Oregon 97201-3098, USA
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42
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Abstract
PilA is the response regulator of a two-component regulatory system that controls a number of genes in the pathogenic Neisseria. Previous work has shown that Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) PilA binds DNA and also hydrolyzes GTP. Here, we report the cloning, sequencing, purification, and biochemical characterization of PilA from N. meningitidis (MC) strain 8013. MC pilA is 94% identical to GC pilA at the nucleotide level. Of the 78 nucleotide changes, 52 are silent, while 26 result in a total of 20 amino acid changes. Additionally, the MC homolog has a 4-amino acid insertion between the putative DNA-binding and GTP-binding domains. Purified MC PilA binds to the same DNA fragment we have previously shown to be bound by GC PilA specifically and also hydrolyzes GTP. The K(m) of MC PilA for GTP is 8.6 microM, similar to that determined for the GC protein. However, the maximum velocity (Vmax) is approximately 35-fold greater than the GC PilA activity. Additionally, the nucleotide specificity of MC PilA differs from that of GC PilA. While GC PilA hydrolyzes only GTP, MC PilA hydrolyzes GTP and ATP equally well, and CTP and UTP also compete for this activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- C G Arvidson
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201, USA.
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43
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Samaranayake YH, Samaranayake LP, Wu PC, So M. The antifungal effect of lactoferrin and lysozyme on Candida krusei and Candida albicans. APMIS 1997; 105:875-83. [PMID: 9393559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Lactoferrin and lysozyme (muramidase) are non-immune defence factors present in various exocrine secretions, including saliva. Previous studies have shown that both proteins, either singly or in combination, are bactericidal in nature and their combined activity is synergistic. As little is known of their interactions with Candida species, 20 oral isolates of C. krusei and 5 isolates of C. albicans were studied for their susceptibility to human apo-lactoferrin and lysozyme, either singly or in combination, using an in vitro assay system. The two species exhibited significant interspecies differences in susceptibility to lactoferrin (p < 0.05), but not for lysozyme; C. krusei being more sensitive to lactoferrin (c 1.4 times) than C. albicans. Both species revealed significant intraspecies differences in their susceptibility to lysozyme (p < 0.05), but not for lactoferrin. No synergistic antifungal activity of the two proteins on either Candida species was noted. The results imply that the variable expression of the fungicidal activity of lactoferrin and lysozyme on Candida species may modulate the oral carriage of yeasts in a complex manner.
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44
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Merz AJ, So M. Attachment of piliated, Opa- and Opc- gonococci and meningococci to epithelial cells elicits cortical actin rearrangements and clustering of tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins. Infect Immun 1997; 65:4341-9. [PMID: 9317047 PMCID: PMC175623 DOI: 10.1128/iai.65.10.4341-4349.1997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Attachment of piliated Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Neisseria meningitidis cells to A431, Chang, HEC-1-B, or polarized T(84) cells triggers rearrangements of cortical microfilaments and the accumulation of phosphotyrosine-containing proteins at sites of bacterial contact. Actin stress fibers and the microtubule network remain unaltered in infected cells. The rearrangements reported here are triggered by piliated, Opa- and Opc- strains and also by nonpiliated gonococci (GC) that produce the invasion-associated OpaA protein. Thus, neisserial adhesion via either of at least two different adhesins can trigger cortical rearrangements. In contrast, these rearrangements are not triggered by nonadherent GC or meningococcal strains, by heat-killed or chloramphenicol-treated GC strains, or by Escherichia coli recombinants that adhere to cells via GC OpaA or Opal fusion proteins, suggesting that additional neisserial components are involved. Immunoblotting experiments did not detect consistent increases in the phosphorylation of specific proteins. Possible biological implications of these Neisseria-induced cortical rearrangements are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Merz
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098, USA.
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45
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Lin L, Ayala P, Larson J, Mulks M, Fukuda M, Carlsson SR, Enns C, So M. The Neisseria type 2 IgA1 protease cleaves LAMP1 and promotes survival of bacteria within epithelial cells. Mol Microbiol 1997; 24:1083-94. [PMID: 9220014 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2958.1997.4191776.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Infection of human epithelial cells by Neisseria meningitidis (MC) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (GC) increases the rate of degradation of LAMP1, a major integral membrane glycoprotein of late endosomes and lysosomes. Several lines of evidence indicate that the neisserial IgA1 protease is directly responsible for this LAMP1 degradation. LAMP1 contains an IgA1-like hinge region with potential cleavage sites for the neisserial type 1 and type 2 IgA1 proteases. Neisserial type 2 IgA1 protease cleaves purified LAMP1 in vitro. Unlike its wild-type isogenic parent, an iga mutant of N. gonorrhoeae cannot affect LAMP1 turnover and its growth in epithelial cells is dramatically reduced. Thus, IgA1 protease cleavage of LAMP1 promotes intracellular survival of pathogenic Neisseria spp.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lin
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201-3098, USA
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46
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Stojiljkovic I, Hwa V, Larson J, Lin L, So M, Nassif X. Cloning and characterization of the Neisseria meningitidis rfaC gene encoding alpha-1,5 heptosyltransferase I. FEMS Microbiol Lett 1997; 151:41-9. [PMID: 9198280 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.1997.tb10392.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We cloned and characterized the Neisseria meningitidis rfaC gene which encodes an enzyme, alpha-1,5 heptosyltransferase I, involved in the synthesis of the deep-core of the lipooligosaccharide. The N. meningitidis rfaC mutant, obtained by an allelic exchange, produced lipooligosaccharide which migrated faster in sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis than the lipooligosaccharide isolated from the wild-type N. meningitidis. The N. meningitidis rfaC mutant was not affected by growth in a rich microbiological medium and did not show any defect in adhesion to epithelial cell lines. Conversely, the rfaC mutant was attenuated in the infant rat model of meningococcemia, thus confirming the importance of intact lipooligosaccharide in the virulence of N. meningitidis.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Stojiljkovic
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201, USA
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47
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Merz AJ, Rifenbery DB, Arvidson CG, So M. Traversal of a polarized epithelium by pathogenic Neisseriae: facilitation by type IV pili and maintenance of epithelial barrier function. Mol Med 1996; 2:745-54. [PMID: 8972489 PMCID: PMC2230138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gonococci (GC) and meningococci (MC) are gram-negative bacterial pathogens that infect human mucosal epithelia. We would like to understand the functions of specific bacterial components at each stage of mucosal colonization: adhesion, cell invasion, and traversal into subepithelial tissues. As no animal model of mucosal colonization by GC or MC is available, increasingly sophisticated in vitro approaches have been used to address these issues. MATERIALS AND METHODS We adapted the polarized T84 human epithelial cell system to study GC and MC colonization. Epithelial barrier function was monitored by permeability to soluble tracers and with electrical resistance measurements. Polarized cells were used to assay bacterial traversal of the monolayers, and cells grown on plastic were used to assay adhesion and cell invasion. RESULTS All pathogenic Neisseriae examined traversed the monolayers. The traversal times were species specific and identical to times established previously in organ culture studies. In contrast to experiments with some enteric pathogens, transmigration by GC and MC was not accompanied by disruption of the epithelial barrier. GC mutants lacking type IV pili were compromised in adhesion, invasion, and traversal of T84 cells. CONCLUSIONS Experiments with polarized T84 cells mimic key features of organ culture infections and reveal additional aspects of neisserial infection. Epithelial barrier function can be retained during bacterial traversal. Experiments with a nonpiliated GC mutant and its wild-type parent indicated an unexpected role for pili in cell invasion. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis that bacterial adhesion, invasion, or both are rate-limiting for traversal across the epithelium.
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Affiliation(s)
- A J Merz
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201, USA
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48
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Stojiljkovic I, Larson J, Hwa V, Anic S, So M. HmbR outer membrane receptors of pathogenic Neisseria spp.: iron-regulated, hemoglobin-binding proteins with a high level of primary structure conservation. J Bacteriol 1996; 178:4670-8. [PMID: 8755899 PMCID: PMC178238 DOI: 10.1128/jb.178.15.4670-4678.1996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
We have recently cloned and characterized the hemoglobin receptor gene from Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C. N. meningitidis cells expressing HmbR protein were able to bind biotinylated hemoglobin, and the binding was specifically inhibited by unlabeled hemoglobin and not heme. The HmbR-mediated hemoglobin binding activity of N. meningitidis cells was shown to be iron regulated. The presence of hemoglobin but not heme in the growth medium stimulated HmbR-mediated hemoglobin binding activity. The efficiency of utilization of different hemoglobins by the HmbR-expressing N. meningitidis cells was shown to be species specific; human hemoglobin was the best source of iron, followed by horse, rat, turkey, dog, mouse, and sheep hemoglobins, The phenotypic characterization of HmbR mutants of some clinical strains of N. meningitidis suggested the existence of two unrelated hemoglobin receptors. The HmbR-unrelated hemoglobin receptor was shown to be identical to Hpu, the hemoglobin-haptoglobin receptor of N. meningitidis. The Hpu-dependent hemoglobin utilization system was not able to distinguish between different sources of hemoglobin; all animal hemoglobins were utilized equally well. HmbR-like genes are also present in N. meningitidis serogroups A and B, Neisseria gonorrhoeae MS11 and FA19, Neisseria perflava, and Neisseria polysaccharea. The hemoglobin receptor genes from N. meningitidis serogroups A and B and N. gonorrhoeae MS11 were cloned, and their nucleotide sequences were determined. The nucleotide sequence identity ranged between 86.5% (for N. meningitidis serogroup B hmbR and MS11 hmbR) and 93.4% (for N. meningitidis serogroup B hmbR and N. meningitidis serogroup C hmbR). The deduced amino acid sequences of these neisserial hemoglobin receptors were also highly related, with overall 84.7% conserved amino acid residues. A stop codon was found in the hmbR gene of N. gonorrhoeae MS11. This strain was still able to use hemoglobin and hemoglobin-haptoglobin complexes as iron sources, indicating that some gonococci may express only the HmbR-independent hemoglobin utilization system.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Stojiljkovic
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland, 97201, USA
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Wizemann TM, Moskovitz J, Pearce BJ, Cundell D, Arvidson CG, So M, Weissbach H, Brot N, Masure HR. Peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase contributes to the maintenance of adhesins in three major pathogens. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 1996; 93:7985-90. [PMID: 8755589 PMCID: PMC38861 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.93.15.7985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathogenic bacteria rely on adhesins to bind to host tissues. Therefore, the maintenance of the functional properties of these extracellular macromolecules is essential for the pathogenicity of these microorganisms. We report that peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase (MsrA), a repair enzyme, contributes to the maintenance of adhesins in Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and Escherichia coli. A screen of a library of pneumococcal mutants for loss of adherence uncovered a MsrA mutant with 75% reduced binding to GalNAcbeta1-4Gal containing eukaryotic cell receptors that are present on type II lung cells and vascular endothelial cells. Subsequently, it was shown that an E. coli msrA mutant displayed decreased type I fimbriae-mediated, mannose-dependent, agglutination of erythrocytes. Previous work [Taha, M. K., So, M., Seifert, H. S., Billyard, E. & Marchal, C. (1988) EMBO J. 7, 4367-4378] has shown that mutants with defects in the pilA-pilB locus from N. gonorrhoeae were altered in their production of type IV pili. We show that pneumococcal MsrA and gonococcal PilB expressed in E. coli have MsrA activity. Together these data suggest that MsrA is required for the proper expression or maintenance of functional adhesins on the surfaces of these three major pathogenic bacteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- T M Wizemann
- Laboratory of Molecular Infectious Diseases, The Rockefeller University, NY 10021, USA
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Forest KT, Bernstein SL, Getzoff ED, So M, Tribbick G, Geysen HM, Deal CD, Tainer JA. Assembly and antigenicity of the Neisseria gonorrhoeae pilus mapped with antibodies. Infect Immun 1996; 64:644-52. [PMID: 8550220 PMCID: PMC173814 DOI: 10.1128/iai.64.2.644-652.1996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship between the sequence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae pilin and its quaternary assembly into pilus fibers was studied with a set of site-directed antibody probes and by mapping the specificities of antipilus antisera with peptides. Buried and exposed peptides in assembled pili were identified by competitive immunoassays and immunoelectron microscopy with polyclonal antibodies raised against 11 peptides spanning the pilin sequence. Pili did not compete significantly with pilin subunits for binding to antibodies against residues 13 to 31 (13-31) and 18-36. Pilus fibers competed well with pilin protein subunits for binding to antibodies raised against peptides 37-56, 58-78, 110-120, 115-127, 122-139, and 140-159 and competed weakly for antibodies against residues 79-93 and 94-108. Antibodies to sequence-conserved residues 37-56 and to semiconserved residues 94-108 preferentially bound pilus ends as shown by immunoelectron microscopy. The exposure of pilus regions to the immune system was tested by peptide mapping of antiserum specificities against sets of overlapping peptides representing all possible hexameric or octameric peptides from the N. gonorrhoeae MS11 pilin sequence. The immunogenicity of exposed peptides incorporating semiconserved residues 49-56 and 121-126 was revealed by strong, consistent antigenic reactivity to these regions measured in antipilus sera from rabbits, mice, and human and in sera from human volunteers with gonorrhea. The conservation and variation of antigenic responses among these three species clarify the relevance of immunological studies of other species to the human immune response against pathogens. Overall, our results explain the extreme conservation of the entire N-terminal one-third of the pilin protein by its dominant role in pilus assembly: hydrophobic residues 1-36 are implicated in buried lateral contacts, and polar residues 37-56 are implicated in longitudinal contacts within the pilus fiber.
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Affiliation(s)
- K T Forest
- Department of Molecular Biology, Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, California 92037, USA
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