Prominent transcriptomic changes in Mycobacterium intracellulare under acidic and oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), including Mycobacterium intracellulare is a member of slow-growing mycobacteria and contributes to a substantial proportion of nontuberculous mycobacterial lung disease in humans affecting immunocompromised and elderly populations. Adaptation of pathogens in hostile environments is crucial in establishing infection and persistence within the host. However, the sophisticated cellular and molecular mechanisms of stress response in M. intracellulare still need to be fully explored. We aimed to elucidate the transcriptional response of M. intracellulare under acidic and oxidative stress conditions.

RESULTS

At the transcriptome level, 80 genes were shown [FC] ≥ 2.0 and p < 0.05 under oxidative stress with 10 mM hydrogen peroxide. Specifically, 77 genes were upregulated, while 3 genes were downregulated. In functional analysis, oxidative stress conditions activate DNA replication, nucleotide excision repair, mismatch repair, homologous recombination, and tuberculosis pathways. Additionally, our results demonstrate that DNA replication and repair system genes, such as dnaB, dinG, urvB, uvrD2, and recA, are indispensable for resistance to oxidative stress. On the contrary, 878 genes were shown [FC] ≥ 2.0 and p < 0.05 under acidic stress with pH 4.5. Among these genes, 339 were upregulated, while 539 were downregulated. Functional analysis highlighted nitrogen and sulfur metabolism pathways as the primary responses to acidic stress. Our findings provide evidence of the critical role played by nitrogen and sulfur metabolism genes in the response to acidic stress, including narGHIJ, nirBD, narU, narK3, cysND, cysC, cysH, ferredoxin 1 and 2, and formate dehydrogenase.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest the activation of several pathways potentially critical for the survival of M. intracellulare under a hostile microenvironment within the host. This study indicates the importance of stress responses in M. intracellulare infection and identifies promising therapeutic targets.

Bigger problems from smaller colonies: emergence of antibiotic-tolerant small colony variants of Mycobacterium avium complex in MAC-pulmonary disease patients

BACKGROUND

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is a group of slow-growing mycobacteria that includes Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium intracellulare. MAC pulmonary disease (MAC-PD) poses a threat to immunocompromised individuals and those with structural pulmonary diseases worldwide. The standard treatment regimen for MAC-PD includes a macrolide in combination with rifampicin and ethambutol. However, the treatment failure and disease recurrence rates after successful treatment remain high.

RESULTS

In the present study, we investigated the unique characteristics of small colony variants (SCVs) isolated from patients with MAC-PD. Furthermore, revertant (RVT) phenotype, emerged from the SCVs after prolonged incubation on 7H10 agar. We observed that SCVs exhibited slower growth rates than wild-type (WT) strains but had higher minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) against multiple antibiotics. However, some antibiotics showed low MICs for the WT, SCVs, and RVT phenotypes. Additionally, the genotypes were identical among SCVs, WT, and RVT. Based on the MIC data, we conducted time-kill kinetic experiments using various antibiotic combinations. The response to antibiotics varied among the phenotypes, with RVT being the most susceptible, WT showing intermediate susceptibility, and SCVs displaying the lowest susceptibility.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the emergence of the SCVs phenotype represents a survival strategy adopted by MAC to adapt to hostile environments and persist during infection within the host. Additionally, combining the current drugs in the treatment regimen with additional drugs that promote the conversion of SCVs to RVT may offer a promising strategy to improve the clinical outcomes of patients with refractory MAC-PD.

Anti-heat shock protein 10 IgG in chronic spontaneous urticaria: Relation with miRNA-101-5p and platelet-activating factor

BACKGROUND

Anti-heat shock protein (HSP) autoantibodies are detected in autoimmune diseases. We sought to ascertain whether anti-HSP10 IgG is present in patients with CSU and to elucidate the role of HSP10 in CSU pathogenesis.

METHOD

Using a human proteome microarray, six potential autoantibodies had higher expression in 10 CSU samples compared with 10 normal controls (NCs). Among them, HSP10 IgG autoantibody was quantified by immune dot-blot assay in sera from 86 CSU patients and 44 NCs. The serum levels of HSP10 and microRNA-101-5p were measured in CSU patients and NCs. The effects of HSP10 and miR-101-5p on mast cell degranulation in response to IgE, compound 48/80, and platelet-activating factor (PAF) were investigated.

RESULTS

CSU patients had higher IgG positivity to HSP10 (40.7% vs. 11.4%, p = .001), lower serum HSP10 levels (5.8 ± 3.6 vs. 12.2 ± 6.6 pg/mL, p < .001) than in NCs, and their urticaria severity was associated with anti-HSP10 IgG positivity, while HSP10 levels were related to urticaria control status. MiR-101-5p was increased in CSU patients. PAF enhanced IL4 production in PBMCs from CSU patients. IL-4 upregulated miR-101-5p and reduced HSP10 expression in keratinocytes. Transfection of miR-101-5p reduced HSP10 expression in keratinocytes. MiR-101-5p promoted PAF-induced mast cell degranulation, while HSP10 specifically prevented it.

CONCLUSION

A new autoantibody, anti-HSP10 IgG was detected in CSU patients, which showed a significant correlation with UAS7 scores. A decreased serum HSP10 level was associated with upregulation of miR-101-5p due to increased IL-4 and PAF in CSU patients. Modulation of miR-101-5p and HSP10 may be a novel therapeutic approach for CSU.

Generation of a human embryonic stem cell reporter line, TMEM119-EGFP, for the visualisation of in vitro differentiated human microglia

Transmembrane protein 119 (TMEM119) is a recently identified microglia marker that is not expressed by other immune cells. Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we introduced enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP), into the H9 WA-09 human embryonic stem cell line, directly before the TMEM119 stop codon. Sanger sequencing confirmed successful insertion of the EGFP sequence. The newly created cell line expressed a normal morphology and karyotype, several pluripotency markers, and the ability to differentiate into all three germ layers. H9-TMEM119-EGFP can be used to provide a deeper understanding of the role of TMEM119 in microglia by monitoring its expression under different experimental conditions.

Development of droplet digital PCR-based detection of bacterial pathogens in prosthetic joint infection: a preliminary study using a synthesized model plasmid

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) can be diagnosed to characterize the microorganisms constituting a biofilm, which is an essential procedure for proper treatment. The gold standard method for detecting and identifying the causative microorganism is culture of microorganisms from patients-derived sample.; however, this method takes a long time and has low sensitivity. To compensate for these limitations, identification methods based on real-time PCR (RT-PCR) have been widely used. However, RT-PCR also has limitations, including low sensitivity and the requirement of a standard curve for quantification. Therefore, to prevent significant proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, it is important to detect a limited number of infectious bacteria during early stages of PJI. In the present study, we developed droplet digital PCR-based detection of bacterial pathogens in PJI. And we evaluated the analytical performance of the assay using a model plasmid, based on the 16S ribosomal DNA sequence of target bacteria commonly found in PJI. We also prepared genomic DNA extracted from E. coli, S. aureus, and S. epidermidis to test whether ddPCR provides better sensitivity and quantification of the target sequences. ddPCR detected 400 attograms of target DNA, which was more than 10 times less than that detected by real-time PCR using synthesized plasmid. In addition, ddPCR detected target regions from genomic DNA of 50 femtograms for E. coli, 70 femtograms for S. epidermidis, and 90 femtograms for S. aureus. The results indicate that ddPCR has the potential to decrease the microbial detection limit and provide precise detection, signifying its effectiveness for early PJI.

Comparative genetic characterization of CMY-2-type beta-lactamase producing pathogenic Escherichia coli isolated from humans and pigs suffering from diarrhea in Korea

BACKGROUND

Pathogenic Escherichia coli are an important cause of bacterial infections in both humans and pigs and many of antimicrobials are used for the treatment of E. coli infection. The objective of this study was to investigate the characteristics and relationship between humans and pigs regarding third-generation cephalosporin resistance and CMY-2-producing E. coli in Korea.

RESULTS

All 103 third-generation cephalosporin-resistant E. coli isolates showed multidrug resistance. Also, except for β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitor combinations, all antimicrobials resistant rates were higher in pigs than in humans. A total of 36 isolates (humans: five isolates; pigs: 31 isolates) were positive for the CMY-2-encoding genes and thirty-two (88.9%) isolates detected class 1 integrons with 10 different gene cassette arrangements, and only 1 isolate detected a class 2 integron. The most common virulence genes in pigs were LT (71.0%), F18 (51.6%), and STb (51.6%), while stx2 (80.0%) was the most frequently detected gene in humans. Stx2 gene was also detected in pigs (6.5%). Interestingly, 36 CMY-2-producing E. coli isolates showed a high diversity of sequence types (ST), and ST88 was present in E. coli from both pigs (11 isolates) and humans (one isolate).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that a critical need for comprehensive surveillance of third-generation cephalosporin resistance is necessary to preserve the usefulness of third-generation cephalosporins in both humans and pigs.

A novel repeat sequence-based PCR (rep-PCR) using specific repeat sequences of Mycobacterium intracellulare as a DNA fingerprinting

Repetitive sequence-based PCR (rep-PCR) is a potential epidemiological technique that can provide high-throughput genotype fingerprints of heterogeneous Mycobacterium strains rapidly. Previously published rep-PCR primers, which are based on nucleotide sequences of Gram-negative bacteria may have low specificity for mycobacteria. Moreover, it was difficult to ensure the continuity of the study after the commercial rep-PCR kit was discontinued. Here, we designed a novel rep-PCR for Mycobacterium intracellulare, a major cause of nontuberculous mycobacterial pulmonary disease with frequent recurrence. We screened the 7,645 repeat sequences for 200 fragments from the genome of M. intracellulare ATCC 13950 in silico, finally generating five primers with more than 90% identity for a total of 226 loci in the genome. The five primers could make different band patterns depending on the genome of three different M. intracellulare strains using an in silico test. The novel rep-PCR with the five primers was conducted using 34 bacterial samples of 7 species containing 25 M. intracellulare clinical isolates, compared with previous published rep-PCRs. This shows distinguished patterns depending on species and blotting assay for 6 species implied the sequence specificity of the five primers. The Designed rep-PCR had a 95-98% of similarity value in the reproducibility test and showed 7 groups of fingerprints in M. intracellulare strains. Designed rep-PCR had a correlation value of 0.814 with VNTR, reference epidemiological method. This study provides a promising genotype fingerprinting method for tracing the recurrence of heterogeneous M. intracellulare.

Antigenic Determinant of Helicobacter pylori FlaA for Developing Serological Diagnostic Methods in Children

The early diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori infection is important for gastric cancer prevention and treatment. Although endoscopic biopsy is widely used for H. pylori diagnosis, an accurate biopsy cannot be performed until a lesion becomes clear, especially in pediatric patients. Therefore, it is necessary to develop convenient and accurate methods for early diagnosis. FlaA, an essential factor for H. pylori survival, shows high antigenicity and can be used as a diagnostic marker. We attempted to identify effective antigens containing epitopes of high diagnostic value in FlaA. Full-sized FlaA was divided into several fragments and cloned, and its antigenicity was investigated using Western blotting. The FlaA fragment of 1345-1395 bp had strong immunogenicity. ELISA was performed with serum samples from children by using the 1345-1395 bp recombinant antigen fragment. IgG reactivity showed 90.0% sensitivity and 90.5% specificity, and IgM reactivity showed 100% sensitivity and specificity. The FlaA fragment of 1345-1395 bp discovered in the present study has antigenicity and is of high value as a candidate antigen for serological diagnosis. The FlaA 1345-1395 bp epitope can be used as a diagnostic marker for H. pylori infection, thereby controlling various gastric diseases such as gastric cancer and peptic ulcers caused by H. pylori.

Modulating macrophage function to reinforce host innate resistance against Mycobacterium avium complex infection

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) is the main causative agent of infectious diseases in humans among nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) that are ubiquitous organisms found in environmental media such as soil as well as in domestic and natural waters. MAC is a primary causative agent of NTM-lung disease that threaten immunocompromised or structural lung disease patients. The incidence and the prevalence of M. tuberculosis infection have been reduced, while MAC infections and mortality rates have increased, making it a cause of global health concern. The emergence of drug resistance and the side effects of long-term drug use have led to a poor outcome of treatment regimens against MAC infections. Therefore, the development of host-directed therapy (HDT) has recently gained interest, aiming to accelerate mycobacterial clearance and reversing lung damage by employing the immune system using a novel adjuvant strategy to improve the clinical outcome of MAC infection. Therefore, in this review, we discuss the innate immune responses that contribute to MAC infection focusing on macrophages, chief innate immune cells, and host susceptibility factors in patients. We also discuss potential HDTs that can act on the signaling pathway of macrophages, thereby contributing to antimycobacterial activity as a part of the innate immune response during MAC infection. Furthermore, this review provides new insights into MAC infection control that modulates and enhances macrophage function, promoting host antimicrobial activity in response to potential HDTs and thus presenting a deeper understanding of the interactions between macrophages and MACs during infection.

Delineating transcriptional crosstalk between Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis and human THP-1 cells at the early stage of infection via dual RNA-seq analysis

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) is the causative agent of Johne’s disease, a chronic debilitating disease in ruminants. To control this disease, it is crucial to understand immune evasion and the mechanism of persistence by analyzing the early phase interplays of the intracellular pathogens and their hosts. In the present study, host–pathogen interactions at the transcriptomic level were investigated in an in vitro macrophage infection model. When differentiated human THP-1 cells were infected with MAP, the expression of various genes associated with stress responses and metabolism was altered in both host and MAP at 3 h post-infection. MAP upregulates stress-responsive global gene regulators, such as two-component systems and sigma factors, in response to oxidative and cell wall stress. Downstream genes involved in type VII secretion systems, cell wall synthesis (polyketide biosynthesis proteins), and iron uptake were changed in response to the intracellular environment of macrophages. On the host side, upregulation of inflammatory cytokine genes was observed along with pattern recognition receptor genes. Notably, alterations in gene sets involved in arginine metabolism were observed in both the host and MAP, along with significant downregulation of NOS2 expression. These observations suggest that the utilization of metabolites such as arginine by intracellular MAP might affect host NO production. Our dual RNA-seq data can provide novel insights by capturing the global transcriptome with higher resolution, especially in MAP, thus enabling a more systematic understanding of host–pathogen interactions.

Flavanols and Flavanes from Crinum asiaticum and Their Effects on LPS Signaling Pathway Through the Inhibition of NF-κB Activation

Three new flavanols, (2R,3S)-7-methoxy-flavan-3-ol (1: ), (2R,3S)-7-hydroxy-flavan-3-ol (2: ), and (2R,3S)-2'-hydroxy-7-methoxy-flavan-3-ol (3: ), together with two known flavans (4: and 5: ), were isolated from the chloroform extract of Crinum asiaticum. Their structures were elucidated by various spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESI-MS, and CD data. The isolated compounds 1: and 3: -5: showed inhibitory activity toward LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) production. Further investigation of the NF-κB pathway mechanisms indicated that 1: and 3: -5: inhibited the LPS-induced IL-6 production and p65 subunit phosphorylation of NF-κB in RAW264.7 cells, with an effective dose of 10 µM.

Fetuin as a potential serum biomarker to detect subclinical shedder of bovine paratuberculosis

Paratuberculosis (PTB) is a chronic contagious granulomatous enteritis of wild and domestic ruminants caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP). PTB causes considerable economic losses to the dairy industry through decreased milk production and premature culling. PTB-affected cattle undergo a subclinical stage without clinical signs and initiate fecal shedding of MAP into the environment. Current diagnostic tools have low sensitivity for the detection of subclinical PTB infection. Therefore, alternative diagnostic tools are required to improve the diagnostic sensitivity of subclinical PTB infection. In this study, we performed ELISA for three previously identified host biomarkers (fetuin, alpha-1-acid glycoprotein, and apolipoprotein) and analyzed their diagnostic performance with conventional PTB diagnostic methods. We observed that serum fetuin levels were significantly lowered in the subclinical shedder and clinical shedder groups than in the healthy control group, indicating its potential utility as a diagnostic biomarker for bovine PTB. Also, fetuin showed an excellent discriminatory power with an AUC = 0.949, a sensitivity of 92.6%, and a specificity of 94.4% for the detection of subclinical MAP infection. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that fetuin could be used as a diagnostic biomarker for enhancing the diagnostic sensitivity for the detection of subclinical MAP infections that are difficult to detect based on current diagnostic methods.

Generation of Skeletal Muscle Organoids from Human Pluripotent Stem Cells to Model Myogenesis and Muscle Regeneration

In vitro organoids derived from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) have been developed as essential tools to study the underlying mechanisms of human development and diseases owing to their structural and physiological similarity to corresponding organs. Despite recent advances, there are a few methodologies for three-dimensional (3D) skeletal muscle differentiation, which focus on the terminal differentiation into myofibers and investigate the potential of modeling neuromuscular disorders and muscular dystrophies. However, these methodologies cannot recapitulate the developmental processes and lack regenerative capacity. In this study, we developed a new method to differentiate hPSCs into a 3D human skeletal muscle organoid (hSkMO). This organoid model could recapitulate the myogenesis process and possesses regenerative capacities of sustainable satellite cells (SCs), which are adult muscle stem/progenitor cells capable of self-renewal and myogenic differentiation. Our 3D model demonstrated myogenesis through the sequential occurrence of multiple myogenic cell types from SCs to myocytes. Notably, we detected quiescent, non-dividing SCs throughout the hSkMO differentiation in long-term culture. They were activated and differentiated to reconstitute muscle tissue upon damage. Thus, hSkMOs can recapitulate human skeletal muscle development and regeneration and may provide a new model for studying human skeletal muscles and related diseases.

Marginols A‒H, unprecedented pimarane diterpenoids from Kaempferia marginata and their NO inhibitory activities

Kaempferia marginata rhizomes are used as an herb in food and as traditional medicine for the treatment of inflammatory-related diseases in Asian countries. In contrast to the previously reported phytochemical investigation of Thai and Chinese K. marginata rhizomes, which demonstrated the presence of sandaracopimaradiene and ent-sandaracopimaradiene, our first investigation of Vietnamese K. marginata rhizomes led to the isolation of eight undescribed pimarane diterpenoids, marginols A‒H, along with 18 known pimarane diterpenoids. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques, including 1D and 2D NMR, HRESIMS, and CD spectroscopy and/or by comparisons of their NMR data with previously reported data. Furthermore, evaluations of the NO production inhibitory activity against LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells revealed that the undescribed compounds, marginols B and D‒G, and the known compounds, sandaracopimaradien-6β,9α-diol-1-one and 6-acetoxysandaracopimardien-9-ol-1-one, showed potent activities. These results provide insights into the chemodiversity of Vietnamese K. marginata rhizomes as well as their traditional usage from the viewpoint of their chemical constituents.

Effects of hydrogenated fat-spray-coated β-carotene supplement on plasma β-carotene concentration and conception rate after embryo transfer in Hanwoo beef cows

We hypothesised that hydrogenated fat (HF)-spray-coated β-carotene (βC) supplement could be used to increase plasma βC concentration and conception rates after embryo transfer (ET) in Hanwoo beef cows. In Experiment 1, 12 multiparous Hanwoo cows were fed one of four experimental diets in a triplicate 4 × 4 Latin square design for a 28-day period. Treatments included no βC addition (control), HF-uncoated βC (HFuβC), HF-spray-coated βC (HFβC), and HF-spray-coated βC and vitamin A (HFβCA). The cows under βC-supplemented treatments were fed 400 mg/day of βC, and a daily intake for vitamin A of HFβCA treatment was 30 000 IU/day as retinyl acetate. Blood was collected on days 0, 26, 27, and 28 to analyse βC and other metabolite concentrations. In Experiment 2, 199 Hanwoo cows with low fertility were randomly assigned to either control (n = 99) or HFβC treatments (n = 100) based on the results of Experiment 1. The oestrus of the cows was synchronised for ET. The HFβC group was fed from 4 weeks before to 4 weeks after ET with a daily intake of 400 mg βC. Pregnancy for conception rates was diagnosed on day 60 after ET, and blood was collected for βC concentrations on the day before ET. Supplementing βC resulted in a high plasma βC concentration (P < 0.001). Supplementing HFβC or HFβCA resulted in higher βC concentrations than HFuβC (P < 0.001); however, there was no difference between HFβC and HFβCA groups. Plasma retinol concentration was lower in the HFβCA treatment than in the control and HFβC groups (P < 0.05). Blood metabolites were unaffected by the treatments. The retinol:βC ratio was lower in the βC-supplemented treatments than in the controls, and was lower in HFβC and HFβCA than in HFuβC groups (P < 0.001). Plasma βC concentration was positively correlated with plasma high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, and total cholesterol (P < 0.05). Plasma retinol concentration was negatively associated with plasma protein (P < 0.01), but positively associated with plasma creatinine (P < 0.001) and urea (P < 0.01). Supplementing HFβC to low-fertility cows resulted in higher plasma βC concentration (P < 0.001) and conception rates (P = 0.024) than those in the controls. In conclusion, HFβC had a better bioavailability than HFuβC, and an increase in conception rates by supplementing HFβC may be beneficial for producing more calves given the low pregnancy rates of bovine ET in Korea.

An objective skin-type classification based on non-invasive biophysical parameters

BACKGROUND

Despite the invention of various non-invasive bioengineering tools, skin-type analysis has largely been based on subjective assessments. However, advancements in the functional cosmetic industry and artificial intelligence-assisted dermatology are creating a greater demand for an objective skin-type classification system.

OBJECTIVES

To propose an objective skin-type classification system solely based on non-invasive, bioengineering devices; provide reference values applicable to the Korean population; and compare our reference values with those of published studies.

METHODS

Biophysical parameter measurements were obtained from the 2018 International Skin Characteristics Data Bank Project conducted by the Foundation of Korea Cosmetic Industry Institute. The participants were 434 healthy South Korean adults. Each participant was assessed using eight bioengineering devices (Tewameter^® , pH-meter^® , Corneometer^® , Sebumeter^® , Cutometer^® , Spectrophotometer^® , PRIMOS^® lite, and Janus^® ). The measurements were divided into tertiles to determine reference points.

RESULTS

Our objective skin-type classification consists of five main categories (sensitivity, hydration, oiliness, elasticity, and skin tone) and five corresponding subcategories (erythema, roughness, pores, wrinkles, and pigmentation, respectively). Each skin type was assigned based on the reference point of the biophysical parameter, which was established as the tertile value associated with 'unfavourable' skin characteristics. Individuals were categorized as having sensitive skin when the TEWL scores were over 18.0 g/m² /h or the pH was over 5.45; dehydrated skin when the corneometric value measured below 47.17 A.U.; oily skin when the sebumetric value exceeded 70 μg/cm² ; and loose skin when the cutometric R² value was below 0.68 E/mm.

CONCLUSIONS

This study is the first to provide a comprehensive skin-type classification system based solely on non-invasive biophysical parameters. As measurement data accumulate, the reference points will progress to become more accurate, and they will be subdivided according to gender, age, and ethnic group. Therefore, our classification system serves as a basis for artificial intelligence-based skin-type analysis.

An In Vitro Anti-Cancer Activity of Ocimum tenuiflorum Essential Oil by Inducing Apoptosis in Human Gastric Cancer Cell Line

Background and Objectives: The effects of Ocimum tenuiflorum essential oil (OTEO) against gastric cancer remain unknown and merit investigation. Materials and Methods: In the present study, the anti-cancer activity of OTEO was examined in a human gastric cancer cell line (AGS). After OTEO treatment, AGS cell viability was determined by an MTT assay, and inhibition of metastasis was determined by cell migration and invasion assays. The expression of apoptosis-related genes in treated AGS cells was determined by qRT-PCR. Results: OTEO significantly decreased AGS cell viability in a dose-dependent manner (IC₅₀ 163.42 µg/mL) and effectively inhibited cell migration and invasion. Morphological examination demonstrated that OTEO induced cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, and fragmentation, which are considered typical morphologies of apoptotic cell death. Pro-apoptotic genes (TP53, BAX, and BAK) were significantly up-regulated, while anti-apoptotic genes (BCL-2 and BCL-xL) were significantly down-regulated after treatment with OTEO. In addition, significantly increased gene expression was detected for CASP8, CASP9, and CASP3 in AGS cells exposed to OTEO. GC-MS analysis demonstrated that the major compound of OTEO was caryophyllene (25.85%) and α-pinene (11.66%). Conclusions: This in vitro study demonstrates for the first time that OTEO has potential anti-gastric cancer activity and may induce apoptosis in AGS cells through extrinsic and intrinsic pathways.

Heterogeneity of Helicobacter pylori bab genotypes and their association with clinical outcomes in Korean gastroduodenal patients

In this study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of bab genes (babA, babB, babC) at their three loci (loci A, B, and C) in Helicobacter pylori strains from varied clinical manifestations of Korean gastroduodenal patients. The overall prevalence of H. pylori Korean strains positive for babA and babB was 91.1% and 92.2%, respectively, but all strains were negative for bab C. H. pylori strains with two loci occupied (loci A and B) were the most prevalent in Korean patients (85.6%), compared to one locus occupied (14.4%) (locus A or B). Twelve bab genotypes were detected, additionally, the distribution of three bab genotypes was significantly associated with different clinical outcomes among Korean patients. The genotypes babA/babB/- and babA/babA+babB/- were significantly associated with peptic ulcer disease (PUD) (63.3%) and gastritis (GT) (33.3%) patients, respectively. In addition, we found that the babA+babB/babA+babB/- genotype was significantly associated with gastric cancer (GC) (36.7%) as compared to GT (6.7%) or PUD (6.7%) (p<0.05) patients. This study provided evidence that the bab genotypes in H. pylori Korean strains were highly variable. Interestingly, three patterns of bab genotypes were significantly different among patients with different clinical outcomes in the population at high-risk for GC.

Understanding the Reciprocal Interplay Between Antibiotics and Host Immune System: How Can We Improve the Anti-Mycobacterial Activity of Current Drugs to Better Control Tuberculosis?

Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) infection, remains a global health threat despite recent advances and insights into host-pathogen interactions and the identification of diverse pathways that may be novel therapeutic targets for TB treatment. In addition, the emergence and spread of multidrug-resistant Mtb strains led to a low success rate of TB treatments. Thus, novel strategies involving the host immune system that boost the effectiveness of existing antibiotics have been recently suggested to better control TB. However, the lack of comprehensive understanding of the immunomodulatory effects of anti-TB drugs, including first-line drugs and newly introduced antibiotics, on bystander and effector immune cells curtailed the development of effective therapeutic strategies to combat Mtb infection. In this review, we focus on the influence of host immune-mediated stresses, such as lysosomal activation, metabolic changes, oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and immune mediators, on the activities of anti-TB drugs. In addition, we discuss how anti-TB drugs facilitate the generation of Mtb populations that are resistant to host immune response or disrupt host immunity. Thus, further understanding the interplay between anti-TB drugs and host immune responses may enhance effective host antimicrobial activities and prevent Mtb tolerance to antibiotic and immune attacks. Finally, this review highlights novel adjunctive therapeutic approaches against Mtb infection for better disease outcomes, shorter treatment duration, and improved treatment efficacy based on reciprocal interactions between current TB antibiotics and host immune cells.

Identification of Ophiocordyceps gracilioides by Its Anti-tumor Effects through Targeting the NFκB-STAT3-IL-6 Inflammatory Pathway

Although more than 400 species of Cordyceps s.l. have been identified, most have not been well explored regarding their potential for medicinal use. In this study, the profiles of constituents of ten different species of Ophiocordyceps, which is an unexplored species of Cordyceps, were analyzed and their anti-tumor effects were further examined. Although all Ophiocordyceps samples exhibited similar peak patterns, Ophiocordyceps gracilioides (O. grac) had a distinct constituent profile from the other samples. Furthermore, O. grac was the most active in suppressing the transcriptional activities of both nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3, and the production of interleukin (IL)-6 from breast cancer cells. This study demonstrated that O. grac is a relatively unexplored Cordyceps s.l. that may have medicinal potential to inhibit the NFκB-STAT3-IL-6 inflammatory pathway in cancer.

Anti-metastatic effects of ergosterol peroxide from the entomopathogenic fungus Ophiocordyceps gracilioides on 4T1 breast cancer cells

Ophiocordyceps gracilioides is an entomoparasitic ascomycetes whose bioactivity has not been examined in detail. In this study, we identified the bioactive compounds ergosterol peroxide (EPO) and ergosterol (ERG) from the MeOH extract of O. gracilioides mycelia related to its anti-cancer effects by targeting the Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-ĸB)/Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) inflammatory pathways. Using gene-reporter assays, we demonstrated that EPO markedly inhibits both NF-ĸB and STAT3 activity in 4T1 cells, whereas ERG had limited effect. Consistent with their effects on NF-ĸB and STAT3 activity, EPO, but not ERG, exerted anti-proliferative effects on 4T1 cells. Furthermore, EPO significant inhibited both the migration and invasion of 4T1 cells in vitro, and pre-treatment of 4T1 cells with EPO significantly inhibited the formation of experimental lung metastases in vivo. Collectively, we demonstrated that ERG and EPO can be isolated from O. gracilioides mycelia, and further identified EPO as an active constituent of its anti-metastatic effects through the inhibition of NF-ĸB and STAT3 inflammatory pathways in 4T1 breast cancer cells.

Increased Risk of Severe Gastric Symptoms by Virulence Factors vacAs1c, alpA, babA2, and hopZ in Helicobacter pylori Infection

Two virulence factors of Helicobacter pylori, cagA and vacA, have been known to play a role in the development of severe gastric symptoms. However, they are not always associated with peptic ulcer or gastric cancer. To predict the disease outcome more accurately, it is necessary to understand the risk of severe symptoms linked to other virulence factors. Several other virulence factors of H. pylori have also been reported to be associated with disease outcomes, although there are many controversial descriptions. H. pylori isolates from Koreans may be useful in evaluating the relevance of other virulence factors to clinical symptoms of gastric diseases because the majority of Koreans are infected by toxigenic strains of H. pylori bearing cagA and vacA. In this study, a total of 116 H. pylori strains from Korean patients with chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, and gastric cancers were genotyped. The presence of virulence factors vacAs1c, alpA, babA2, hopZ, and the extremely strong vacuolating toxin was found to contribute significantly to the development of severe gastric symptoms. The genotype combination vacAs1c/alpA/babA2 was the most predictable determinant for the development of severe symptoms, and the presence of babA2 was found to be the most critical factor. This study provides important information on the virulence factors that contribute to the development of severe gastric symptoms and will assist in predicting clinical disease outcomes due to H. pylori infection.

In Vivo and In Vitro Effects of Tracheloside on Colorectal Cancer Cell Proliferation and Metastasis

Recent research suggests a relationship between cancer progression and oxidative mechanisms. Among the phenolic compounds such as tracheloside (TCS) are a major bioactive compound that can combat oxidant stress-related chronic diseases and that also displays anti-tumor activity. Although TCS can inhibit mammalian carcinoma, its effects on colorectal cancer (CRC) have not been clarified. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of TCS on the proliferation of CRC cells, the metastasis of CT26 cells, and the molecular mechanisms related to TCS in vitro and in vivo. A cell viability assay showed that TCS inhibited the proliferation of CRC cells. TCS-treated CT26 cells were associated with the upregulation of p16 as well as the downregulation of cyclin D1 and CDK4 in cell cycle arrest. In addition, TCS induced apoptosis of CT26 cells through mitochondria-mediated apoptosis and regulation of the Bcl-2 family. Expression of epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers was regulated by TCS treatment in CT26 cells. TCS significantly inhibited the lung metastasis of CT26 cells in a mouse model. These results suggest that TCS, by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis through its anti-oxidant properties, is a novel therapeutic agent that inhibits metastatic phenotypes of murine CRC cells.

Genomic diversity of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis: pangenomic approach for highlighting unique genomic features with newly constructed complete genomes

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) is a causative agent of Johne’s disease, which is a chronic granulomatous enteropathy in ruminants. Determining the genetic diversity of MAP is necessary to understand the epidemiology and biology of MAP, as well as establishing disease control strategies. In the present study, whole genome-based alignment and comparative analysis were performed using 40 publicly available MAP genomes, including newly sequenced Korean isolates. First, whole genome-based alignment was employed to identify new genomic structures in MAP genomes. Second, the genomic diversity of the MAP population was described by pangenome analysis. A phylogenetic tree based on the core genome and pangenome showed that the MAP was differentiated into two major types (C- and S-type), which was in keeping with the findings of previous studies. However, B-type strains were discriminated from C-type strains. Finally, functional analysis of the pangenome was performed using three virulence factor databases (i.e., PATRIC, VFDB, and Victors) to predict the phenotypic diversity of MAP in terms of pathogenicity. Based on the results of the pangenome analysis, we developed a real-time PCR technique to distinguish among S-, B- and C-type strains. In conclusion, the results of our study suggest that the phenotypic differences between MAP strains can be explained by their genetic polymorphisms. These results may help to elucidate the diversity of MAP, extending from genomic features to phenotypic traits.

Genetic Involvement of Mycobacterium avium Complex in the Regulation and Manipulation of Innate Immune Functions of Host Cells

Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC), a collection of mycobacterial species representing nontuberculous mycobacteria, are characterized as ubiquitous and opportunistic pathogens. The incidence and prevalence of infectious diseases caused by MAC have been emerging globally due to complications in the treatment of MAC-pulmonary disease (PD) in humans and the lack of understating individual differences in genetic traits and pathogenesis of MAC species or subspecies. Despite genetically close one to another, mycobacteria species belonging to the MAC cause diseases to different host range along with a distinct spectrum of disease. In addition, unlike Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the underlying mechanisms for the pathogenesis of MAC infection from environmental sources of infection to their survival strategies within host cells have not been fully elucidated. In this review, we highlight unique genetic and genotypic differences in MAC species and the virulence factors conferring the ability to MAC for the tactics evading innate immune attacks of host cells based on the recent advances in genetic analysis by exemplifying M. avium subsp. hominissuis, a major representative pathogen causing MAC-PD in humans. Further understanding of the genetic link between host and MAC may contribute to enhance host anti-MAC immunity, but also provide novel therapeutic approaches targeting the pangenesis-associated genes of MAC.

Alpha-2-Macroglobulin as a New Promising Biomarker Improving the Diagnostic Sensitivity of Bovine Paratuberculosis

Johne's disease (JD) is a chronic granulomatous enteritis of ruminants caused by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP), which induces persistent diarrhea and cachexia. JD causes huge economic losses to the dairy industry due to reduced milk production and premature culling. Infected animals excrete MAP via feces during the prolonged subclinical stage without exhibiting any clinical signs. Therefore, accurate detection of subclinical stage animals is crucial for successful eradication of JD in the herd. In the current study, we analyzed serum samples of MAP-infected and non-infected cattle to identify potential biomarker candidates. First, we identified 12 differentially expressed serum proteins in subclinical and clinical shedder groups compared to the healthy control group. Second, we conducted ELISA for three selected biomarkers (alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M), alpha-1-beta glycoprotein, and transthyretin) and compared their diagnostic performance with that of two commercial ELISA diagnostic kits. Serum A2M levels were significantly higher in the MAP-exposed, subclinical shedder, subclinical non-shedder, and clinical shedder groups than in the healthy control group, suggesting its possible use as a diagnostic biomarker for MAP infection. Furthermore, A2M demonstrated a sensitivity of 90.4%, and a specificity of 100% while the two commercial ELISA kits demonstrated a sensitivity of 67.83 and 73.04% and a specificity of 100%, respectively. In conclusion, our results suggest that measuring A2M by ELISA can be used as a diagnostic tool to detect MAP infection, considerably improving the detection rate of subclinical shedders and MAP-exposed animals that are undetectable using current diagnostic tools.

Unveiling the Crucial Role of Type IV Secretion System and Motility of Helicobacter pylori in IL-1β Production via NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation in Neutrophils

Helicobacter pylori is a gram-negative, microaerophilic, and spiral-shaped bacterium and causes gastrointestinal diseases in human. IL-1β is a representative cytokine produced in innate immune cells and is considered to be a key factor in the development of gastrointestinal malignancies. However, the mechanism of IL-1β production by neutrophils during H. pylori infection is still unknown. We designed this study to identify host and bacterial factors involved in regulation of H. pylori-induced IL-1β production in neutrophils. We found that H. pylori-induced IL-1β production is abolished in NLRP3-, ASC-, and caspase-1/11-deficient neutrophils, suggesting essential role for NLRP3 inflammasome in IL-1β response against H. pylori. Host TLR2, but not TLR4 and Nod2, was also required for transcription of NLRP3 and IL-1β as well as secretion of IL-1β. H. pylori lacking cagL, a key component of the type IV secretion system (T4SS), induced less IL-1β production in neutrophils than did its isogenic WT strain, whereas vacA and ureA were dispensable. Moreover, T4SS was involved in caspase-1 activation and IL-1β maturation in H. pylori-infected neutrophils. We also found that FlaA is essential for H. pylori-mediated IL-1β production in neutrophils, but not dendritic cells. TLR5 and NLRC4 were not required for H. pylori-induced IL-1β production in neutrophils. Instead, bacterial motility is essential for the production of IL-1β in response to H. pylori. In conclusion, our study shows that host TLR2 and NLRP3 inflammasome and bacterial T4SS and motility are essential factors for IL-1β production by neutrophils in response to H. pylori.

Infection of Dendritic Cells With Mycobacterium avium subspecies hominissuis Exhibits a Functionally Tolerogenic Phenotype in Response to Toll-Like Receptor Agonists via IL-10/Cox2/PGE2/EP2 Axis

Mycobacterium avium subspecies hominissuis (MAH) is the most common agent causing nontuberculous mycobacterial disease in humans. It mainly causes chronic and slowly progressive pulmonary disease (PD), which requires a long-term treatment and allows opportunistic co-infection by common pulmonary pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Aspergillus spp., thereby resulting in alteration of host immune response. In the present study, we investigated the phenotypical and functional alterations of dendritic cells (DCs), a bridge antigen-presenting cell between innate and adaptive immunity, following MAH infection in response to various toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists mimicking co-infection conditions, along with subsequent T cell response. Interestingly, MAH-infected DCs produced interleukin (IL)-10 significantly and decreased the level of IL-12p70 in response to Poly I:C and LPS, although not so in response to Pam3CSK4, imiquimod, or CpG oligodeoxynucleotide, thereby indicating that the TLR3 and TLR4 agonists functionally altered MAH-infected DCs toward a tolerogenic phenotype. Moreover, IL-10-producing tolerogenic DCs were remarkably induced by MAH and P. aeruginosa co-infection. To precisely elucidate how these TLR agonists induce tolerogenic DCs upon MAH infection, we sought to clarify the major mechanisms involved, using LPS, which caused the greatest increase in IL-10 production by the TLR agonists. Increased IL-10 stimulated the creation of tolerogenic DCs by significantly reducing MHC class II expression and MHC class II-antigen presentation, eventually inhibiting CD4⁺ T cell proliferation, along with decreased IFN-γ and IL-2. The tolerogenic phenotypes of MAH/LPS-treated DCs were restored by anti-IL-10 neutralization, validating the induction of tolerogenicity by IL-10. Interestingly, IL-10-producing-tolerogenic DCs were observed after infection with live MAH, rather than with inactivated or dead MAH. In addition, TLR2^-/- and TLR4^-/- DCs confirmed the association of IL-10 production with TLR2 and TLR4 signaling; IL-10 production synergistically increased when both TLR4 and TLR2 were involved. Expression of Cox2 and PGE2 increased along with IL-10 while that of IL-10 was inhibited by their selective inhibitors celecoxib and anti-EP2 antibody, respectively. Thus, the tolerogenic phenotypes of MAH/LPS-treated DCs were proven to be induced by Cox-2/PGE2-dependent EP2 signaling as the main mechanism. These findings may provide important clues that the tolerogenic cascade in MAH-infected DCs induced by TLR 4 signaling can alter host immune response.

Apoptotic effect of enterodiol, the final metabolite of edible lignans, in colorectal cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Enterodiol (END) is transformed by human intestinal bacteria from lignans contained in various whole-grain cereals, nuts, legumes, flaxseed, and vegetables. It is known to have several physiological effects, but its effects on mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling and apoptosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells have not yet been elucidated. We therefore investigated the effects of END on apoptosis in CRC cells and whether these effects are mediated via MAPK signaling.

RESULTS

Cell proliferation was decreased by END treatment in a time-dependent manner. In particular, END treatment resulted in an apoptosis rate of up to 40% in CT26 cells but showed no cytotoxicity toward RAW264.7 macrophages. Treatment with END also suppressed the migration of CRC cells in a concentration-dependent manner. The phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 was down-regulated with END treatment. Furthermore, END decreased the expression levels of anti-apoptotic proteins in CRC cells.

CONCLUSION

Enterodiol inhibited the growth of CRC cells by controlling the MAPK signaling pathway involved in proliferation and apoptosis. These results demonstrate that END has an apoptotic effect in CRC cells. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Development of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae ApxI, ApxII, and ApxIII-specific ELISA methods for evaluation of vaccine efficiency

Among various vaccines against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae, subunit vaccines using recombinant proteins of ApxI, ApxII, and ApxIII as vaccine antigens have shown good efficacy in terms of safety and protection. Therefore, subunit vaccines are being applied worldwide and the development of new subunit vaccines is actively being conducted. To evaluate the efficacy of the subunit vaccines, it is important to measure immune responses to each Apx toxin separately. However, the cross-reactivity of antibodies makes it difficult to measure specific immune reactivity to each toxin. In the present study, specific antigen regions among the toxins were identified and cloned to solve this problem. The antigenicity of each recombinant protein was demonstrated by Western blot. Using the recombinant proteins, we developed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods that can detect specific immune responses to each Apx toxin in laboratory guinea pigs. We suggest that the ELISA method developed in this study can be an important tool in the evaluation of vaccine efficiency and vaccine development.

The first case of hand infection caused by Dermabacter jinjuensis in a symmetrical peripheral gangrene patient

Introduction

Strains of the genus Dermabacter is a recently established species, recognized as relatively rare opportunistic human pathogen, and is infrequently isolated from clinical specimens, including blood cultures, abscesses, wounds, bone, eye, and skin.

Presentation of case

We present a 78-year old female with chronic symmetrical peripheral gangrene and hand infection. The patient underwent surgical debridement with amputation on gangrene with infection of both fingers. At 2 weeks postoperatively, pus discharge was newly observed and the patient underwent reoperation. In the subsequent reinfection, unknown organism has been repeatedly identified, may be the most likely causative agent. On the basis of phenotypic and genotypic distinctness and DNA–DNA hybridization results, new strain should be placed in the genus Dermabacter as representing a novel species, for which the name Dermabacter jinjuensis sp. nov. is proposed.

Discussion

We judged the novel species as the causative bacteria. Because of, a novel species called D. jinjuensis was repeatedly identified more than common bacteria. It can be considered as a postoperative nosocomial infection or opportunistic infection. It is not clear how the infection of D. jinjensis occurred.

Conclusion

This is the first reported case of a human D. jinjuensis infection. We were able to treat patients without any complications by operative treatment and administering appropriate antimicrobial agents according to antibiotics susceptibility test.

•

Strain of the genus Dermabacter is a recently established species.

•

Strain of the genus Dermabacter recognized as relatively rare opportunistic human pathogen.

•

Dermabacter jinjuensis is newly described Dermabacter species.

•

Dermabacter jinjuensis can be human pathogen.

ArmA and RmtB Were the Predominant 16S RMTase Genes Responsible for Aminoglycoside-resistant Isolates in Korea

Pathogenic gram-negatives that produce 16S ribosomal RNA methyltransferases (16S RMTases) have already been distributed all over the world. To investigate the predominance of aminoglycoside resistance associated with 16S RMTases in Korea, we collected a total of 222 amikacin resistant Gram-negative clinical isolates from patient specimens between 1999 and 2015 from three hospital banks across Korea. ArmA and rmtB were the predominant 16S RMTase genes responsible for aminoglycoside-resistant isolates circulating in Korean community settings although only one rmtA-producing isolate was detected in 2006.

Cell-selectivity of tryptophan and tyrosine in amphiphilic α-helical antimicrobial peptides against drug-resistant bacteria

The increasing emergence of drug-resistant bacteria creates a requirement for new antibiotics and various types of antibiotic materials such as proteins, peptides, polymers, and chemical compounds. Among these, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are considered to be promising antibiotic candidates for clinical treatments. In this study, we have designed a novel series of peptides with repeated sequences of minimum membrane-active motif, 'XWZX' basic sequence (X: lysine or arginine, Z: leucine, tyrosine, valine, or glycine), and an α-helical secondary structure. Some peptides displayed a potent antibacterial activity via membranolytic action and high therapeutic index (toxic dose/minimum inhibitory concentration) in vitro. Furthermore, in vivo experiments using bacterial ear-skin infection models verified that these peptides have the potential to be powerful and safe antibiotics. The present study provides a lead sequence for designing peptide antibiotics against bacterial membranes and information for cell-selectivity of hydrophobic amino acids with aromatic side chains such as Trp and Tyr.

Inhibitory effects of Euphorbia supina on Propionibacterium acnes-induced skin inflammation in vitro and in vivo

Background

Euphorbia supina (ES) plant has been used as treatment for inflammatory conditions. The antibacterial effect and the anti-inflammatory mechanism of ES for Propionibacterium (P.) acnes-induced inflammation in THP-1 cells and acne animal model remain unclear. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to determine the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of ES against P. acnes, the etiologic agent of skin inflammation.

Method

The antibacterial activities of ES were tested with disc diffusion and broth dilution methods. Cytotoxicity of ES at different doses was evaluated by the MTT assay. THP-1 cells were stimulated by heat-killed P. acnes in the presence of ES. The pro-inflammatory cytokines and mRNA levels were measured by ELISA and real-time-PCR. MAPK expression was analyzed by Western blot. The living P. acnes was intradermally injected into the ear of BLBC/c mice. Subsequently, chemical composition of ES was analyzed by liquids chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS).

Result

ES had stronger antibacterial activity against P. acnes and inhibitory activity on lipase. ES had no significant cytotoxicity on THP-1 cells. ES suppressed the mRNA levels and production of IL-8, TNF-a, IL-1β in vitro. ES inhibited the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the MAPK signaling pathway. Ear thickness and inflammatory cells were markedly reduced by ES treatment. Protocatechuic acid, gallic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol were detected by LC-MS analysis in ES.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate antibacterial and anti-inflammatory activities of ES extract against P. acnes. It is suggested that ES extract might be used to treatment anti-inflammatory skin disease.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-018-2320-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Antioxidant and skin-whitening effects of aerial part of Euphorbia supina Raf. Extract

Background

Euphorbia supina (ES) has been widely used in folk medicine owing to its antibacterial, hemostatic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and skin-whitening effects of a 70% ethanol extract of ES.

Methods

The aerial parts of ES plant were extracted with 70% ethanol. The viability of B16F10 cells was evaluated by MTT assay to determine the non-toxic doses for further experiments. The tyrosinase and cellular tyrosinase activities were then measured using an enzyme-substrate assay. In addition, the expression of whitening-related proteins was measured using western blot.

Results

The antioxidant activity of the ES samples increased in a dose-dependent manner, as confirmed by their radical scavenging activities in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) assays. The ES extract significantly reduced tyrosinase activity and melanin content in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, it decreased α-melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH)-induced protein expression of tyrosinase and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that the ES extract attenuated α-MSH-stimulated melanin synthesis by modulating tyrosinase and MITF expression. Therefore, the ES extract could be a promising therapeutic agent to treat hyperpigmentation and as an ingredient for skin-whitening cosmetics.

Diagnostic utility of skin autofluorescence when patch test results are doubtful

BACKGROUND

The standard diagnostic test for allergic contact dermatitis is the patch test, which can also be used to identify irritant contact dermatitis. Doubtful reactions (?+) can be often clinically relevant to individuals and can require additional tests.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to examine whether autofluorescence (AF) measurements in patients with doubtful reactions are helpful in diagnosing contact dermatitis.

METHODS

Patients with a history of contact dermatitis were patch tested on the upper back for 48-hours of occlusion using aqueous solutions of 5% sodium lauryl sulfate. Reaction intensity was scored, and AF was measured on reactive lesions and non-lesions. Three dermatologists classified the results as positive or negative using the fluorescence photographs of patients with a doubtful reaction.

RESULTS

Among doubtful reactions, the R/G% values were significantly higher in the AF- based positive group than in the negative group (P = .0086). On the other hand, the heterogeneity values of R, G, and B (HR, HG, HB) were significantly lower in the AF-based positive group (P = .0026, .0046, .0004 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Measuring AF along with the clinical readings can help confirm doubtful patch test reactions.

MAP1981c, a Putative Nucleic Acid-Binding Protein, Produced by Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis, Induces Maturation of Dendritic Cells and Th1-Polarization

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) is the causative pathogen of chronic granulomatous enteropathy (Johne's disease) in animals, and has been focused on its association with various autoimmune diseases in humans, including Crohn's disease. The discovery of novel mycobacterial antigens and exploring their role in host immunity can contribute to the advancement of effective defense strategies including vaccines and diagnostic tools. In a preliminary study, we identified cellular extract proteins of MAP that strongly react with the blood of patients with Crohn's disease. In particular, MAP1981c, a putative nucleic acid-binding protein, showed high expression levels and strong reactivity to IgG and IgM in the sera of patients. Here, we investigated the immunological features of MAP1981c and focused on its interaction with dendritic cells (DCs), confirming its immunomodulatory ability. MAP1981c was shown to recognize Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4, and induce DC maturation and activation by increasing the expression of co-stimulatory (CD80 and CD86) and MHC class I/II molecules and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) in DCs. This DC activation by MAP1981c was mediated by downstream signaling of TLR4 via MyD88- and TRIF-, MAP kinase-, and NF-κB-dependent signaling pathways. In addition, MAP1981c-treated DCs activated naïve T cells and induced the differentiation of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells to express T-bet, IFN-γ, and/or IL-2, but not GATA-3 and IL-4, thus indicating that MAP1981c contributes to Th1-type immune responses both in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, these results suggest that MAP1981c is a novel immunocompetent antigen that induces DC maturation and a Th1-biased response upon DC activation, suggesting that MAP1981c can be an effective vaccine and diagnostic target.

A novel Th1-type T-cell immunity-biasing effect of malate dehydrogenase derived from Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis via the activation of dendritic cells

Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) is the causative pathogen of Johne's disease in ruminants, characterized by chronic granulomatous enteritis; it also has zoonotic potential and is associated with Crohn's disease in humans. A better understanding of the mycobacterial antigens and their roles in the host immune response may facilitate the rational design of control strategies, including the development of effective vaccines and diagnostic tools. However, the functional roles of a large proportion of MAP antigens involved in modulating the host immune response remain unknown. In this study, an immunological role of MAP malate dehydrogenase (MDH, MAP2541c), an antigen that is upregulated in stress culture conditions, such as nutrient starvation and hypoxia, in polarizing naïve CD4⁺/CD8⁺ T cells toward Th1-biased T-cell immunity via the activation of dendritic cells (DCs) was identified. DCs treated with MAP MDH displayed characteristics of the activated and mature immune status, with augmented expression of cell surface molecules and pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-12p70, but not IL-10, along with a dose-dependent decrease in the antigen uptake capacity. A mechanistic investigation revealed that the observed DC maturation is mediated by the activation of JNK, ERK, and p38 MAP kinases, and the NF-κB signaling pathway. Notably, DCs activated by MAP MDH treatment promoted naïve CD4⁺/CD8⁺ T cell proliferation; in particular, they effectively polarized naïve CD4⁺ T cells to secrete IFN-γ and IL-2 and activate T-bet, but, unlike the LPS control, did not influence IL-5 and GATA-3. These results indicated that MAP MDH has the potential to induce the Th1 cell response via DC activation. Collectively, our data demonstrated that MAP MDH is a novel immunostimulatory antigen that drives Th1-biased T cell polarization via interactions with DCs, suggesting that MDP MDH has the potential to be an effective MAP vaccine antigen target and diagnostic marker.

Characterizing antigenic determinants in Helicobacter pylori CagA capable of detecting serum antibodies in children

Helicobacter pylori can persistently colonize the mucosa of the human stomach, resulting in gastric disorders. Endoscopic biopsy for rapid urease test and histopathologic examination are considered as the most accurate diagnostic methods for H. pylori infection. Serological methods are recommended for children because of invasiveness of the diagnosis mentioned above. Here, the cytotoxin-associated gene A protein (Cag A), as an immunodominant antigen, was subdivided to determine which regions harbor antigenicity for humans. CagA was divided into 17 overlapping fragments of ∼400 bp, which were used for the analysis of antigenic determinants. The partial proteins were subjected to immunoblot analysis using pooled serum samples from children with gastric symptoms. A partial recombinant CagA protein containing epitope regions (683-749 amino acids), which were identified in this study, was produced and used for the detection of anti-CagA antibodies and further investigated its serodiagnostic value for determination of H. pylori infection in children. The serum IgG reactivities from children with gastric symptoms were significantly three times more than that of serum samples from children with non-gastric symptoms (P < 0.005). Moreover, the serum IgG reactivities from children showing strong urease activity of gastric biopsies were significantly higher than those with moderate and weak urease activities (P < 0.05). Hence, the partial CagA is a candidate antigen for diagnosis of H. pylori infection.

Regulatory effects of glycyrrhizae radix extract on DSS-induced ulcerative colitis

BACKGROUND

Glycyrrhizae Radix (GR) is a Korean traditional herb medicine that is widely-used in clinical health care. The clinical functions of GR include relief of toxicity, anti-cancer, regulating blood cholesterol and anti-inflammation. This study investigated the role of GR on ulcerative colitis in a dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced mouse model of colitis.

METHOD

Western blot analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analyses were done on male BALB/c mice administered 5 % DSS during the experimental period. Ethanol extracts of GR were orally administered at same time daily to control mice. The severity of colitis was measured by body weight change and colon length.

RESULT

DSS-treated mice displayed weight loss and shortened colon length compared with control mice. Mice were administered GR showed less weight loss and longer colon length than the DSS-treated group. Inflammatory cytokines were decreased by GR treatment. Treatment also reduced DSS-induced microscopic damage to colon tissue. GR regulated the phosphorylation of transcription factors such as NF-κB p65 and IκB α.

CONCLUSIONS

GR has beneficial effects in a colitis model. GR might be a useful herb medicine in the treatment of ulcerative colitis.

Pilot study on the correlation between skin auto-fluorescence and serum antioxidant enzyme: skin auto-fluorescence is negatively associated with levels of malondialdehyde

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Various methods have been used to objectively record skin changes. However, estimating the intrinsic and extrinsic aging of skin remains a challenge. Our objective was to study intrinsic skin aging with respect to patient age and extrinsic photo-aging of human dorsal (photo-exposed) and volar (photo-protected) forearm in vivo through skin auto-fluorescence (AF). We also examined the correlations between serum antioxidant enzyme, malondialdehyde(MDA), and skin AF.

METHODS

37 healthy volunteers were enrolled. We measured skin AF and its heterogeneity on the dorsal and volar forearms. We also examined serum concentration of catalase, superoxide dismutase, vitamin E, and MDA levels in every participant.

RESULTS

In photo-protected areas, skin AF intensity in the 40 years or older group was significantly higher compared to the group less than 40 years-old. On the other hand, heterogeneity value was significantly higher in the less than 40 years-old group in photo-protected area. With respect to serum antioxidant enzyme and MDA level, only MDA level showed a negative correlation with skin AF intensity in photo-exposed area.

CONCLUSION

We determined that skin AF intensity of the photo-protected area reflects intrinsic skin aging. In addition, degree of photo-aging could be indirectly inferred by skin AF of photo-exposed area and serum MDA level.

Comparative study of skin autofluorescence expression in atopic dermatitis and psoriasis: A prospective in vivo study

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis requires their differentiation from other eczematoid dermatitis and a determination of disease severity. However, both can be clinically difficult and the findings subjectively interpreted. We investigated the utility of in vivo autofluorescence (AF) measurements for diagnosis of both diseases, and determination of severity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty patients with AD and 30 with psoriasis were recruited, together with sex- and age-matched patients with healthy skin. AF intensity was measured using the EcoSkin^® fluorescence video dermatoscope. In AD and psoriasis patients, AF in non-sun-exposed lesional and non-lesional skin was measured. To identify the locations that reflect characteristics of AD, AF was also measured at the other sites in the patients with AD.

RESULTS

AD was associated with lower AF and psoriasis with higher AF intensity peaking around 620 nm. In addition, skin AF intensity of each disease was associated with severity of lesion.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-invasive measurement of skin AF in vivo can aid in diagnosis of AD and psoriasis as well as in treatment monitoring.

PCR-based detection of Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis infection in cattle in South Korea using fecal samples

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) is the causative agent of bovine paratuberculosis (PTB). The first step in the control of PTB is the identification and isolation of sub-clinical fecal shedders from the herd. In the current study, real-time and nested PCR targeting MAP-specific genetic elements (IS900 and ISMAP02) DNA isolated from fecal samples were used to detect MAP infection in cattle. Of the 1,562 fecal samples obtained from 37 herds, regardless of diarrhea, 35 samples tested positive in both IS900-targeted real-time and ISMAP02-targeted nested PCR. At the herd level, 12 of the 37 herds were found to be positive for MAP. Detection rates of the PCR tests were similar to those reported for ELISA-based methods. These results suggest that PCR can be used to detect sub-clinical fecal shedders of MAP.

Nasal immunization with mannan-decorated mucoadhesive HPMCP microspheres containing ApxIIA toxin induces protective immunity against challenge infection with Actinobacillus pleuropneumoiae in mice

The development of subunit mucosal vaccines requires an appropriate delivery system or an immune modulator such as an adjuvant to improve antigen immunogenicity. The nasal route for vaccine delivery by microparticles has attracted considerable interest, although challenges such as the rapid mucociliary clearance in the respiratory mucosa and the low immunogenicity of subunit vaccine still remain. Here, we aimed to develop mannan-decorated mucoadhesive thiolated hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose phthalate (HPMCP) microspheres (Man-THM) that contain ApxIIA subunit vaccine - an exotoxin fragment as a candidate for a subunit nasal vaccine against Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae. For adjuvant activity, mucoadhesive thiolated HPMCP microspheres decorated with mannan could be targeted to the PRRs (pathogen recognition receptors) and mannose receptors (MR) of antigen presenting cells (APCs) in the respiratory immune system. The potential adjuvant ability of Man-THM for intranasal immunization was confirmed by in vitro and in vivo experiments. In a mechanistic study using APCs in vitro, it was found that Man-THM enhanced receptor-mediated endocytosis by stimulating the MR of APCs. In vivo, the nasal vaccination of ApxIIA-loaded Man-THM in mice resulted in higher levels of mucosal sIgA and serum IgG than mice in the ApxIIA and ApxIIA-loaded THM groups due to the specific recognition of the mannan in the Man-THM by the MRs of the APCs. Moreover, ApxIIA-containing Man-THM protected immunized mice when challenged with strains of A. pleuropneumoniae serotype 5. These results suggest that mucoadhesive Man-THM may be a promising candidate for a nasal vaccine delivery system to elicit systemic and mucosal immunity that can protect from pathogenic bacteria infection.

Gene expression profiles of putative biomarker candidates in Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis-infected cattle

This study was conducted to analyze the gene expression of prognostic potential biomarker candidates using the whole blood of cattle naturally infected with ITALIC! Mycobacterium aviumsubsp. ITALIC! paratuberculosis(MAP). We conducted real-time PCR to evaluate 23 potential biomarker candidates. Experimental animals were divided into four groups based on fecal MAP PCR and serum ELISA. Seven ( ITALIC! KLRB1, ITALIC! HGF, ITALIC! MPO, ITALIC! LTF, ITALIC! SERPINE1, ITALIC! S100A8and ITALIC! S100A9) genes were up-regulated in fecal MAP-positive cattle and three ( ITALIC! KLRB1, ITALIC! MPOand ITALIC! S100A9) were up-regulated in MAP-seropositive cattle relative to uninfected cattle. In subclinically infected animals, 17 genes ( ITALIC! TFRC, ITALIC! S100A8, ITALIC! S100A9, ITALIC! MPO, ITALIC! GBP6, ITALIC! LTF, ITALIC! KLRB1, ITALIC! SERPINE1, ITALIC! PIGR, ITALIC! IL-10, ITALIC! CXCR3, ITALIC! CD14, ITALIC! MMP9, ITALIC! ELANE, ITALIC! CHI3L1, ITALIC! HPand ITALIC! HGF) were up-regulated compared with the control group. Moreover, six genes ( ITALIC! CXCR3, ITALIC! HP, ITALIC! HGF, ITALIC! LTF, ITALIC! TFRCand ITALIC! GBP6) showed significant differences between experimental groups. Taken together, our data suggest that six genes ( ITALIC! LTF, ITALIC! HGF, ITALIC! HP, ITALIC! CXCR3, ITALIC! GBP6and ITALIC! TFRC) played essential roles in the immune response to MAP during the subclinical stage and therefore might be useful as prognostic biomarkers.

Impact of chemical peeling combined with negative pressure on human skin

OBJECTIVE

In vivo changes in skin barrier function after chemical peeling with alpha hydroxyacids (AHAs) have been previously reported. However, the additional effects of physical treatment with chemical agents on skin barrier function have not been adequately studied. This study measured the degree of acute skin damage and the time required for skin barrier repair using non-invasive bioengineering methods in vivo with human skin to investigate the additional effect of a 4% AHA chemical jet accelerated at supersonic velocities.

METHODS

Thirteen female subjects (average age: 29.54 ± 4.86 years) participated in this study. The faces of the subjects were divided into half according to the block randomization design and were then assigned to receive AHA peeling alone or AHA peeling combined with pneumatic pressure on each side of the face. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin colour and skin blood flow were evaluated at baseline and at 30 min, 2, 5 and 7 days after treatment.

RESULTS

The TEWL and skin blood flow were significantly increased after 30 min in chemodermabrasion compared with chemical peeling alone (P < 0.05). The TEWL and skin blood flow recovered to baseline after 2 days, and TEWL was significantly decreased at 7 days compared with chemical peeling alone (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Chemodermabrasion can temporarily impair skin barriers, but it is estimated that it can enhance the skin barrier function after 7 days compared to the use of a chemical agent alone. In addition, chemodermabrasion has a more effective impact in the dermis and relatively preserves the skin barrier.

Whole-blood gene-expression profiles of cows infected with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis reveal changes in immune response and lipid metabolism

Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis (MAP) is the causative agent of Johne's disease, a chronic debilitating disease affecting ruminants worldwide. In the present study, we aimed to determine the major gene networks and pathways underlying the immune response to MAP infection using whole-blood cells, as well as provide the potential transcriptional markers for identifying the status of MAP infection. We analyzed the transcriptional profiles of whole-blood cells of cattle identified and grouped according to the presence of MAP-specific antibodies and the MAP shed by them. The grouping was based on the results obtained by ELISA and PCR analyses as follows: i) Test1 group: MAP-negative results obtained by ELISA and positive results obtained by PCR; ii) Test2 group: MAP-positive results obtained by ELISA and negative results obtained by PCR; iii) Test3 group: MAP-positive results obtained by ELISA and positive results obtained by PCR; iv) uninfected control: MAP-negative results obtained both by ELISA and PCR analysis. The results showed down-regulated production and metabolism of reactive oxygen species in the Test1 group, activation of pathways related to the host-defense response against MAP (LXR/RXR activation and complement system) in the Test2 and Test3 groups, and anti-inflammatory response (activation of IL-10 signaling pathway) only in the Test3 group. Our data indicate a balanced response that serves the immune-limiting mechanism while the host-defense responses are progressing.

Analysis of comedone, sebum and porphyrin on the face and body for comedogenicity assay

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Many ingredients used in cosmetics evoke a comedogenic response. Rabbit ear model (REM) is a useful method that can replace human in examining materials and products in early developmental stage. However, a number of studies pointed out its disadvantage that it overreacts to comedogenic materials. The purpose of this study was to find the most appropriate region for evaluating comedogenicity in human skin.

METHODS

Sixty-six female subjects (age 32.48 ± 10 years; range 20-52 years) with mild to moderate facial acne lesions were included in this study. The whole face, upper chest, and back of volunteers were photographed. Lesion (closed and open comedones) counting, instrumentation of sebum secretion level, and analysis of porphyrin number were performed. The entire study was performed under environmental conditions of specific relative temperature and humidity, controlled and maintained identically for each volunteer.

RESULTS

In case of closed comedone, forehead showed a significant correlation with frontal cheek, lateral cheek, chin, and upper back. Meanwhile, significant correlations were observed between frontal cheek and chin as well as lateral cheek and chest. As for open comedone, forehead showed a significant correlation with chin site. A significant correlation was also observed between front cheek and lateral cheek as well as between upper chest and back. Analyzing the correlation between the occurrence of comedones and sebum in each region, a significant correlation between closed comedone and sebum was observed in frontal and lateral cheek. Analyzing the correlation between the occurrence of comedones and porphyrine in each region, a significant correlation between open comedone and porphyrin was observed in chin.

CONCLUSION

When evaluating the comedogenicity of cosmetics ingredients or products, this study recommends using both of the methods of testing on back and directly testing on face according to the characteristics of the materials. In case of mild potent ingredients or products in particular, verification through usability test that the directly test on face will help securing reliability.