The potential geographical distribution and phenology of Bemisia tabaci Middle East/Asia Minor 1, considering irrigation and glasshouse production

The Bemisia tabaci species complex is one of the most important pests of open field and protected cropping globally. Within this complex, one species (Middle East Asia Minor 1, B. tabaci MEAM1, formerly biotype B) has been especially problematic, invading widely and spreading a large variety of plant pathogens, and developing broad spectrum pesticide resistance. Here, we fit a CLIMEX model to the distribution records of B. tabaci MEAM1, using experimental observations to calibrate its temperature responses. In fitting the model, we consider the effects of irrigation and glasshouses in extending its potential range. The validated niche model estimates its potential distribution as being considerably broader than its present known distribution, especially in the Americas, Africa and Asia. The potential distribution of the fitted model encompasses the known distribution of B. tabaci sensu lato, highlighting the magnitude of the threat posed globally by this invasive pest species complex and the viruses it vectors to open field and protected agriculture.

Precision Analysis of the ^{136}Xe Two-Neutrino ββ Spectrum in KamLAND-Zen and Its Impact on the Quenching of Nuclear Matrix Elements

We present a precision analysis of the ^{136}Xe two-neutrino ββ electron spectrum above 0.8 MeV, based on high-statistics data obtained with the KamLAND-Zen experiment. An improved formalism for the two-neutrino ββ rate allows us to measure the ratio of the leading and subleading 2νββ nuclear matrix elements (NMEs), ξ_{31}^{2ν}=-0.26_{-0.25}^{+0.31}. Theoretical predictions from the nuclear shell model and the majority of the quasiparticle random-phase approximation (QRPA) calculations are consistent with the experimental limit. However, part of the ξ_{31}^{2ν} range allowed by the QRPA is excluded by the present measurement at the 90% confidence level. Our analysis reveals that predicted ξ_{31}^{2ν} values are sensitive to the quenching of NMEs and the competing contributions from low- and high-energy states in the intermediate nucleus. Because these aspects are also at play in neutrinoless ββ decay, ξ_{31}^{2ν} provides new insights toward reliable neutrinoless ββ NMEs.

Dendritic cell CD83 homotypic interactions regulate inflammation and promote mucosal homeostasis

Dendritic cells (DCs) form an extensive network in the intestinal lamina propria, which orchestrates the mucosal immune response. Alterations in DC function can predispose to inflammatory bowel disease, although by unknown mechanisms. We show that CD83, a highly regulated DC cell surface protein, modulates the immune response to prevent colitis. Mice with a conditional knockout of CD83 in DCs develop exacerbated colitis following dextran sodium sulfate challenge, whereas mucosal overexpression of CD83 inhibits DC inflammatory response and protects against colitis. These CD83 perturbations can be modeled in vitro where we show that CD83 homotypic interaction occurs via cell-cell contact and inhibits pro-inflammatory responses. CD83 knockdown or cytoplasmic truncation abrogates the effects of homotypic binding. We demonstrate that CD83 homotypic interaction regulates DC activation via the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway by inhibiting p38α phosphorylation. Our findings indicate that CD83 homotypic interactions regulate DC activation and promote mucosal homeostasis.

TNF superfamily member TL1A elicits type 2 innate lymphoid cells at mucosal barriers

Immune responses at mucosal barriers are regulated by innate type 2 lymphoid cells (ILC2s) that elaborate effector cytokines interleukins 5 and 13 (IL5 and IL13). IL25 and IL33 are key cytokines that support ILC2s; however, mice deficient in these pathways retain some functional ILC2s. Analysis of human and murine cells revealed that ILC2s highly express tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-receptor superfamily member DR3 (TNFRSF25). Engagement of DR3 with cognate ligand TL1A promoted ILC2 expansion, survival, and function. Exogenous protein or genetic overexpression of TL1A activated ILC2s independent of IL25 or IL33. Dr3(-/-) mice failed to control gut helminthic infections, and failed to mount ILC2 responses in the lung after nasal challenge with papain. Our data demonstrate a key role for TL1A in promoting ILC2s at mucosal barriers.

Estimation of regional cerebral blood flow using N-isopropyl-p-123I iodoamphetamine acquisition data from the lungs and brain

Aim: Previously, we devised a method for estimating 123I labeled N-isopropyl-p-iodo- amphetamine (123I IMP) arterial blood activity at 10 minutes after intravenous injection of 123I IMP (Ca10) without any blood sampling using 123I IMP autoradiography (ARG) acquisition data, and verified its usefulness for quantification of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF). In this study, we attempted to develop an improved noninvasive method for estimating rCBF. Patients, methods: 123I IMP studies with 23 patients and 15O-H2O positron emission tomography (PET) ARG studies with 20 patients were evaluated. Multiple regression analysis was used to estimate an integral of the arterial blood counts during the time after injection of 123I (JCa) using parameters from the time series of the lung counts and brain counts as the explanatory variables and the fraction [brain single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) average count / the mean of rCBFs (mean CBF) measured by 15O-H2O PET ARG method] as the objective variable. Results: The regression equation was as follows: Estimated JCa = (7.09x10-3 · Cb12) - (1.57x10-4 · CbpreSPECT) + (9.48x10-5 · CbpostSPECT) + (1.35x10-4· L15) - (6.95x10-4· L33) + (7.61x10-4· L81) - (0.417), where Cb12: brain count at 12 minutes, Cbpre-SPECT: brain count before SPECT, Cbpost-SPECT: brain count after SPECT, L15, L33, and L81: lung count at 15, 33, and 81 seconds, respectively. The mean CBF values (ml/min/100g) calculated using the estimated JCa values more closely correlated with those measured by 15O-H2O PET ARG method (r = 0.833, p < 0.01) than those obtained by our previous method (r = 0.590, p < 0.01). Conclusion: The rCBFs obtained by this method approximated more accurately to the values measured by 15O-H2O PET ARG method than those obtained by our previous method.

[Intraoperative direct angiography for the diminutive central pulmonary artery in a patient with major aortopulmonary collateral arteries]

It can be difficult to judge the degree of arborization of diminutive central pulmonary arteries (cPA) in patients with major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCA). Even through preoperative cardiac catheterization may not give adequate information. We introduce intra-operative direct angiography of diminutive cPA for patients with MAPCA. This would be one of the good options to judge the degree of arborization of the diminutive cPA, and to decide an initial surgical treatment. In this case, unifocalization of MAPCA without patch augmentation of pulmonary arteries, and an aortopulmonary shunt were performed at the 1st procedure. As enough growth of the cPA was obtained, this patient did not require additional patch augmentation of the pulmonary artery at the time of complete repair.

Opposing consequences of IL-23 signaling mediated by innate and adaptive cells in chemically induced colitis in mice

The interleukin-23 (IL-23) pathway has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for inflammatory bowel disease. Although the pathogenic role of IL-23 receptor (IL-23R) on T lymphocytes is well established, its function on innate immune cells has not been thoroughly examined. Here we investigate the consequence of IL-23R deletion in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. In IL23R(-/-) and IL23p19(-/-) mice, we observed decreased weight loss and reduced leukocyte infiltrate following DSS exposure. Surprisingly, when the IL-23R(-/-) allele was crossed into Rag2(-/-) mice, we observed exacerbated disease, increased epithelial damage, reduced pSTAT3 in the epithelium, and delayed recovery of IL23R(-/-)Rag2(-/-) mice. This phenotype was rescued with exogenous IL22-Fc, and epithelial pSTAT3 was restored. Depletion of Thy1(+) innate lymphoid cells eliminated the majority of IL-22 production in the colon lamina propria of DSS-treated Rag2(-/-) mice, suggesting that these are the major IL-23 responsive innate cells in this context. In summary, we provide evidence for opposing consequences of IL-23R on innate and adaptive lymphoid cells in murine colitis.

Estimation of plasma and saliva levels of coenzyme Q10 and influence of oral supplementation

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ(10)) levels in human saliva were measured by HPLC with a highly sensitive electrochemical detector (ECD) and a special concentration column. This HPLC system showed satisfactory analytical results within the standard range of 0.78-50 ng/ml. We also found a significant correlation between CoQ(10) levels in plasma and in saliva from parotid glands, while this correlation was lacking between plasma CoQ10 and CoQ10 in whole saliva. Unlike in plasma, there are some fluctuations of saliva CoQ(10) levels throughout the day. A good correlation was obtained by collecting parotid gland saliva at times between meals. The mean saliva CoQ(10) level for 55 healthy volunteers was 17.0 ng/ml (S.D. 6.8 ng/ml); approximately one fiftieth of that in plasma. Regarding the influence of oral supplementation, CoQ(10) was analyzed in plasma and parotid gland saliva from 20 healthy volunteers supplemented daily with 100 mg of CoQ(10) for the first week and 200 mg for the second. The plasma CoQ(10) levels of all volunteers increased to different extents in accordance with the CoQ(10) daily intake and the corresponding change in saliva showed almost the same trend.

Differential expression of RANKL and osteoprotegerin in gingival crevicular fluid of patients with periodontitis

The receptor activator for NF-kappaB ligand (RANKL) plays an important role in osteoclast formation. A recent study with animal models suggests the involvement of RANKL in the pathogenesis of this periodontal disease. However, no one has examined the level of RANKL in the body fluid of human subjects. This communication reports on the in vivo concentrations of RANKL and the RANKL decoy receptor osteoprotegerin (OPG) in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of periodontal subjects with severe, moderate, and mild forms of the disease. An increased concentration of RANKL and a decreased concentration of OPG were detected in GCF from patients with periodontitis (*p < 0.05 vs. control subjects). The ratio of the concentration of RANKL to that of OPG in the GCF was significantly higher for periodontal disease patients than for healthy subjects (*p < 0.01). Taken together, these data suggest that RANKL and OPG contribute to osteoclastic bone destruction in periodontal disease.

ABBREVIATIONS

GCF, gingival crevicular fluid; IL, interleukin; OPG, osteoprotegerin; RANKL, receptor activator for NF-kappaB ligand.

Association of a single nucleotide variant in the human tumour necrosis factor alpha promoter region with decreased bone mineral density

BACKGROUND

Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) has come to be regarded as a potential osteoporotic factor, because it has stimulatory effects on cells of the osteoclast lineage and has been implicated in the pathogenesis of bone loss associated with oestrogen deficiency. We recently described genetic linkage between the TNFalpha locus and human osteoporosis by sib-pair analysis. However, the molecular mechanism by which this locus regulates bone mineral density (BMD) remains unknown.

AIM

We investigated whether the observed linkage reflects a sequence variation which might affect expression of the TNFalpha gene or alter the function of TNFalpha protein.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We examined three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the TNFalpha gene in a group of 390 postmenopausal Japanese women living in northern Japan. Minor-allele frequencies for the three SNPs (-1031C, -863A and -857T) in this population were 0.16, 0.13 and 0.20, respectively.

RESULTS

Among the three SNPs examined, we observed a significant correlation only between the presence of a T allele at nt -1031 and decreased BMD, by analysis of variance. Among the three genotypic groups at nt -1031, mean BMD values were significantly higher in the T-negative genotype (C/C homozygotes; mean SD = 0.342 +/- 0.052 g cm(-2)), compared with T-positive genotypes (T/T homozygotes, 0.309 +/- 0.062 g cm(-2); p = 0.0253 and T/C heterozygotes, 0.305 +/- 0.062 g cm(-2); p = 0.0164).

CONCLUSIONS

Given the lines of evidence from different genetic studies, we suggest that TNFalpha may play a role in pathogenesis of osteoporosis.

Molecular tryst peeping: detection of interactions between nonlabeled nucleic acids by fluorescence resonance energy transfer

We have developed a new method for monitoring the interactions between nonlabeled RNAs that involves detection of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between two DNA probes with different fluorescent label. The sequences of the probes are complementary to those of the RNAs. In this study, we examined the interaction between a portion of the LTR RNA of HIV-1 and the corresponding antisense RNA. The antisense RNA was designed not to bind to the fluorescent DNA without prior hybridization to the target RNA. A mixture of RNAs and DNA probes with fluorescent labels was fractionated by electrophoresis on a nondenaturing polyacrylamide gel and then the gel was analyzed with a fluorescence imaging analyzer. FRET was observed only in the presence of target RNA, antisense RNA, and both of the fluorescent DNA probes. This strategy should be useful for the detection of interactions between nucleic acids that cannot be subjected to chemical modification, such as RNA transcripts inside cells.

Binding mode prediction for a flexible ligand in a flexible pocket using multi-conformation simulated annealing pseudo crystallographic refinement

We describe multi-conformation simulated annealing-pseudo-crystallographic refinement (MCSA-PCR), a technique developed for predicting the binding mode of a flexible ligand in a flexible binding pocket. To circumvent the local-minimum problem efficiently, this method performs multiple independent cycles of simulated annealing with explicit solvent, "growing" the ligand in the binding pocket each time. From the ensemble of structures, a pseudo-crystallographic electron density map is calculated, and then conventional crystallographic refinement methods are used to best fit a single, optimal structure into the density map. The advantage of the MCSA-PCR method is that it provides a direct means to evaluate the accuracy and uniqueness of the calculated solution, provides a measure of ligand and protein dynamics from the refined B-factors, and facilitates comparison with X-ray crystallographic data. Here, we show that our MCSA-PCR method succeeds in predicting the correct binding mode of the VSV8 peptide to the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) receptor. Importantly, there is a significant correlation between the experimentally determined crystallographic water molecules and water density observed in the pseudo map by MCSA-PCR. Furthermore, comparison of different approaches for extracting a single, most probable structure from the calculated ensemble reveals the power of the PCR method and provides insights into the nature of the energetic landscape.

A nucleotide variant in the promoter region of the interleukin-6 gene associated with decreased bone mineral density

Interleukin-6 (IL6) has come to be regarded as a potential osteoporotic factor because it has stimulatory effects on cells of the osteoclast lineage, and, thus, may play a role in the pathogenesis of bone loss associated with estrogen deficiency. We previously described association of the IL6 microsatellite with bone mineral density (BMD), as well as genetic linkage of the IL6 locus to human osteoporosis, by means of sib-pair analysis. However, the molecular mechanism by which this locus regulates BMD remains unknown. Accordingly, we searched for polymorphisms in the 5' and 3' flanking regions and in all five exons of the IL6 gene in a Japanese population sample. We identified three single-nucleotide sequence variations: a C/G substitution at nucleotide (nt) -634 in the promoter region, a G/A substitution at nt 4391 in the 3' noncoding region, and a variation in the AnTn tract around nt -447. The last of these had already been observed in Caucasians, as well as in Japanese. The single-nucleotide polymorphism at -634 created a restriction site for the BsrBI endonuclease, and the frequency of the minor (G) allele was 0.184. Five haplotypes were constructed among three variations examined in the population. Linkage disequilibrium was observed between the variation at -634 and the variation at 4391, as well as between the variation at -634 and the AnTn tract variation. We found a significant correlation, in 470 subjects, between the presence of the G allele and decreased BMD, by analysis of variance. When BMD values were compared among the three genotypic groups (G/G, G/C, C/C) at nt -634, BMD was lowest among the G/G homozygotes (mean +/- SD; 0.284 +/- 0.062g/cm2), highest among the C/C homozygotes (0.314 +/- 0.059g/cm2), and intermediate among the heterozygotes (0.303 +/- 0.066g/cm2; P < 0.05). Given the several lines of evidence from different genetic studies, we suggest that IL6 is, indeed, one of the genes affecting bone metabolism, in which variations can lead to osteoporosis.

Enzyme specificity under dynamic control II: Principal component analysis of alpha-lytic protease using global and local solvent boundary conditions

The contributions of conformational dynamics to substrate specificity have been examined by the application of principal component analysis to molecular dynamics trajectories of alpha-lytic protease. The wild-type alpha-lytic protease is highly specific for substrates with small hydrophobic side chains at the specificity pocket, while the Met190-->Ala binding pocket mutant has a much broader specificity, actively hydrolyzing substrates ranging from Ala to Phe. Based on a combination of multiconformation analysis of cryo-X-ray crystallographic data, solution nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and normal mode calculations, we had hypothesized that the large alteration in specificity of the mutant enzyme is mainly attributable to changes in the dynamic movement of the two walls of the specificity pocket. To test this hypothesis, we performed a principal component analysis using 1-nanosecond molecular dynamics simulations using either a global or local solvent boundary condition. The results of this analysis strongly support our hypothesis and verify the results previously obtained by in vacuo normal mode analysis. We found that the walls of the wild-type substrate binding pocket move in tandem with one another, causing the pocket size to remain fixed so that only small substrates are recognized. In contrast, the M190A mutant shows uncoupled movement of the binding pocket walls, allowing the pocket to sample both smaller and larger sizes, which appears to be the cause of the observed broad specificity. The results suggest that the protein dynamics of alpha-lytic protease may play a significant role in defining the patterns of substrate specificity. As shown here, concerted local movements within proteins can be efficiently analyzed through a combination of principal component analysis and molecular dynamics trajectories using a local solvent boundary condition to reduce computational time and matrix size.

Efficient transfer of intact oligonucleotides into the nucleus of ligament scar fibroblasts by HVJ-cationic liposomes is correlated with effective antisense gene inhibition

The efficacy of two different cationic liposomes, Lipofectin and hemagglutinating virus of Japan (HVJ)-cationic liposomes, on nuclear uptake of fluorescence-labeled phosphorothioate oligodeoxyribonucleotide (S-ODN) by ligament scar fibroblasts and suppression of decorin mRNA expression when antisense decorin S-ODN was transferred was investigated. There was no significant difference in nuclear uptake of fluorescent ODN between the two methods. However, only HVJ-cationic liposomes had a significant effect on suppression of decorin mRNA expression levels. To address the discrepancy, the molecular integrity of the transferred ODN in the cells was assessed by analysis of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) within double-fluorescence-labeled S-ODN. More than 70% of the ODN transfected by HVJ-cationic liposomes remained intact within the nucleus at 20 h after transfection, while the majority of the ODN transferred by Lipofectin was degraded at this point. These results suggest a strong relationship between the nuclear integrity of transfected antisense ODN and its suppression of target mRNA expression.

Five novel single-nucleotide polymorphisms of human interferon gamma identified by sequencing the entire gene

Interferon gamma (IFNG) plays important roles in the regulation of bone remodelling. We describe here six single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the IFNG gene, five of which are novel, and their allelic frequencies in the Japanese population, as determined by sequencing 48 alleles of the entire gene. Four of these polymorphisms were identified inside the third intron, at nucleotide (nt) positions 2459 (A/G), 2671 (T/C), 3177 (T/G), and 3273 (G/A). In exon 4, SNPs were identified at nt positions 5199 (A/T) and 5272 (A/G). These polymorphic sites will be useful for genetic studies of disorders that affect the inflammatory process or calcium metabolism.

Novel single nucleotide polymorphisms of the human colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2) gene identified by sequencing the entire gene

We describe three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the human colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2) gene and their allelic frequencies, as determined by direct sequencing of 48 alleles of the entire CSF2 gene. Three polymorphisms were identified, at nucleotide positions 1816 (T/C), 2284 (C/T), and 3079 (G/A). These polymorphisms will be useful in genetic studies not only of hematologic disorders but also of disorders of bone metabolism.

Novel single nucleotide polymorphisms of the human nuclear factor kappa-B 2 gene identified by sequencing the entire gene

The nuclear factor kappa-B 2 (NFKB2) gene is a member of the NFKB/Rel gene family, which is known to be a pivotal regulator of the acute phase of the inflammatory response and of immune responses. We identified three novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and determined their allelic frequencies, as determined by the sequencing of 48 alleles of the entire gene in a Japanese population sample. Two of the three polymorphisms were identified at nucleotide (nt) position 1837 (T/C) and nt position, 1867 (GG/G) in the upstream region of the gene. The other polymorphism was identified at nt position 2584 (G/T) within intron 1. These polymorphisms will be useful in genetic studies of the processes involved in inflammatory responses and in bone differentiation.

Linkage of human tumor necrosis factor-alpha to human osteoporosis by sib pair analysis

Osteoporosis as well as osteopenia are common human conditions considered to result from the interplay of multiple genetic and environmental factors. Twin and family studies have yielded strong correlation between measures of bone mass and a number of genetic factors. Certain genes (e.g., cytokines such as interleukin-1, interleukin-6, or tumor necrosis factor-alpha) are capable of regulating metabolism, formation, and resorption of bone; all processes that determine bone mass. We tested 192 sib-pairs of adult Japanese women from 136 families for genetic linkage between osteoporosis and osteopenia phenotypes and allelic variants at the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFA) locus, using a dinucleotide-repeat polymorphism located near the gene. The TNFA locus showed evidence for linkage to osteoporosis, with mean allele sharing of 0.478 (P = 0.30) in discordant pairs and 0.637 (P = 0.001) in concordant affected pairs. Linkage with osteopenia was also significant in concordant affected pairs (P = 0.017). Analyses limited to the post-menopausal women in our cohort showed similar or even stronger linkage for both phenotypes. The results provide evidence that genetic variations within the TNFA locus or adjacent genes affect regulation of mineral metabolism in bone and some of them confer risk for osteoporosis in adult women.

Cloning and functional expression of rat kidney dipeptidyl peptidase II

Dipeptidyl peptidase II (DPP II; EC 3.4.14.2) from rat kidney was purified to a specific activity of 65.4 micromol/min per mg of protein for Lys-Ala-beta-naphthylamide. The N-terminal and partial amino acid sequences of the enzyme were determined. The peptide sequences were used to identify expressed sequence tag (EST) clones. By using the cDNA fragment of one of the EST clones as a probe, we isolated a cDNA clone with 1710 bp encoding DPP II from a rat kidney cDNA library. The cDNA of rat DPP II contained an open reading frame of 1500 bp, coding for a protein of 500 amino acids. The first 10 residues of the purified enzyme matched the deduced protein sequence starting with residue 37, suggesting the presence of a signal peptide. The mature enzyme (464 residues) had a calculated molecular mass of 51400 Da, which was lower than the value (about 60000 Da) determined by SDS/PAGE; and the deduced amino acid sequence showed six potential N-glycosylation sites. The deduced amino acid sequence of rat DPP II shared high similarity with quiescent-cell proline dipeptidase (78% identity) and prolyl carboxypeptidase (38% identity) and bore the putative catalytic triad (Ser, Asp, His) conserved in serine peptidase families. We transiently transfected COS-7 cells with pcDNA3.1 containing the cloned cDNA and obtained the overexpression of an immunoreactive protein (of about 60000 Da). The transfected cells showed Lys-Ala-methylcoumarinamide-hydrolysing activity that was 50 times higher than the control cells.

Association of bone mineral density with polymorphism of the human calcium-sensing receptor locus

A strong correlation between bone mass and genetic factors has been shown in twins and family studies. Some of the genes involved would regulate bone metabolism, bone formation, and resorption, all processes that determine bone mass. One candidate genes, calcium-sensing receptor (CASR) in the parathyroid gland, regulates calcium homeostasis by sensing decreases in extracellular calcium level and effecting an increase in secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH) and calcium (Ca) reabsorption in the kidney. We have investigated a possible association between the CA-repeat polymorphism at the human CASR gene locus and the bone mineral density (BMD) of radial bone in 472 postmenopausal Japanese women. Genotypes were classified into nine groups according to the number of CA repeats present, from 20 to 12. BMD was expressed as the adjusted BMD, which was the body mass index (BMI), and age-adjusted average BMD. The 247 women who had an A3 allele (228 bp, containing 18 repeats of CA) had significantly lower adjusted BMD (mean +/- SD: 0.303 +/- 0.059 versus 0.316 +/- 0.063 g/cm(2); P = 0.0308) than the participants (n = 201) who did not carry an allele of that size. This result suggests that genetic variation at the CASR gene locus is associated with some determinants for BMD in postmenopausal women.

Non-Boltzmann thermodynamic integration (NBTI) for macromolecular systems: relative free energy of binding of trypsin to benzamidine and benzylamine

The relative free energies of binding of trypsin to two amine inhibitors, benzamidine (BZD) and benzylamine (BZA), were calculated using non-Boltzmann thermodynamic integration (NBTI). Comparison of the simulations with the crystal structures of both complexes, trypsin-BZD and trypsin-BZA, shows that NBTI simulations better sample conformational space relative to thermodynamic integration (TI) simulations. The relative binding free energy calculated using NBTI was much closer to the experimentally determined value than that obtained using TI. The error in the TI simulation was found to be primarily due to incorrect sampling of BZA's conformation in the binding pocket. In contrast, NBTI produces a smooth mutation from BZD to BZA using a surrogate potential, resulting in a much closer agreement between the inhibitors' conformations and the omit electron density maps. This superior agreement between experiment and simulation, of both relative binding free energy differences and conformational sampling, demonstrates NBTI's usefulness for free energy calculations in macromolecular simulations.

A common Ile796Val polymorphism of the human SREBP cleavage-activating protein (SCAP) gene

We identified a new common amino acid polymorphism of isoleucine/valine at codon 796 in exon 16 of the gene for human sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP) cleavage-activating protein (SCAP), a central regulator of lipid synthesis and metabolism in animal cells. It can be detected as an MslI restriction fragment length polymorphism. The allelic frequencies were: isoleucine (A) allele, 0.57 and valine (G) allele, 0.43. This polymorphism may be useful for genetic studies of disorders affecting intracellular lipid metabolism and hyperlipidemia.

Allelic variants in the interleukin-6 gene and essential hypertension in Japanese women

Genes that can be implicated in hypertension in experimental animals are plausible candidates in the pathogenesis of human hypertension. A recent genome-wide search for quantitative-trait loci (QTL) in hypertensive rats revealed a strong correlation between the interleukin-6 (IL-6) locus on rat chromosome 4 and systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial pressure in this mammalian species. To investigate a possible association between genetic variations of the IL-6 gene and hypertension in humans, we identified two novel single-nucleotide sequence variations, a C/G substitution at -634 in the promoter region and a G/A substitution at 4391 in a 3' non-coding portion of exon 5, and a previous reported sequence variant, an A/T variation in the composition of the AnTn tract around -447 in the promoter region (Fishman D et al. J Clin Invest 1998; 102: 1369-1376), within a test population of 96 Japanese subjects. Allelic associations involving these variations were analyzed in 150 hypertensive and 143 normotensive Japanese women. The distribution of alleles of the three polymorphisms, as well as a dinucleotide repeat present at the IL-6 locus, was similar in the two groups. Therefore, the IL-6 gene appears to play a minimal role in the genetic etiology of essential hypertension in Japanese women.

Ethnic difference in contribution of Sp1 site variation of COLIA1 gene in genetic predisposition to osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by low bone mineral density (BMD) leading to bone fragility [1], is a major public health concern in Japan as well as in other countries. Although genetic predisposition seems to be a factor in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis [2-4], the precise cohort of genes that may be involved is not well defined. The COLIA1 and COLIA2 genes encode polypeptide constituents of collagen type Ialpha1 and Ialpha2, respectively. Both are important candidates as genetic regulators of BMD, since mutations in either gene result in osteogenesis imperfecta, a disorder characterized by severe osteoporosis [5]. Some patients with adult osteoporosis also carry mutations in COLIA1 or COLIA2 genes [6].http://link.springer-ny. com/link/service/journals/00223/bibs/65n5p352.html</++ +hea

A highly polymorphic CA repeat marker at the interleukin-11 locus

The interleukin-11 (IL-11) stimulates T cell-dependent development of immunoglobulin-producing B cells and collaborates with IL-3 in supporting murine megakaryocyte colony formation. The interleukin-11 (IL-11) also stimulates osteoclast formation and inhibits osteoclast function in vitro and has been implicated in estrogen deficiency-induced bone loss. We isolated a polymorphic dinucleotide (CA) repeat sequence from a genomic clone containing the IL-11 gene located at 19q13.3-q13.4. High heterozygosity (0.81) makes this polymorphism a useful marker in genetic study of disorders affecting immune response and bone metabolism.

Isolation and radiation hybrid mapping of a highly polymorphic CA repeat sequence at the SREBP cleavage-activating protein (SCAP) locus

Sterol regulatory element binding protein (SREBP) cleavage-activating protein (SCAP) is a central regulator of lipid synthesis and uptake in animal cells. A polymorphic dinucleotide (CA) repeat sequence was isolated from a genomic clone containing the SCAP gene and was mapped to chromosome 3p21.3. High heterozygosity (0.89) makes this polymorphism a useful marker in the genetic study of disorders affecting lipid metabolism.

Linkage of interleukin 6 locus to human osteopenia by sibling pair analysis

Osteopenia and osteoporosis are common human conditions considered to result from the interplay of multiple genetic and environmental factors. Twin and family studies have yielded strong correlations between levels of bone mass and a number of genetic factors. The genes involved could regulate metabolism, formation and resorption of bone, all processes that determine bone mass. We tested 192 sibling pairs of adult Japanese women from 136 families for genetic linkage between osteopenia and allelic variants of four candidate genes (interleukin-6, interleukin-6 receptor, calcium-sensing receptor, and matrix gla protein) using qualitative and quantitative methods, and using as genetic markers dinucleotide-repeat polymorphisms present in or near each of those loci. The interleukin-6 locus showed evidence of linkage to osteopenia analyzed as a qualitative trait, with mean allele sharing of 0.40 (P=0.0001) in discordant pairs and 0.55 (P=0.04) in concordant affected pairs. Variation at this locus was also linked to decreased bone mineral density measured as a quantitative trait (P=0.02). Analyses limited only to the post-menopausal women showed similar or even stronger results. No other locus among those tested showed any evidence of linkage by either method. The results provided strong evidence that genetic variation at the interleukin-6 locus affects regulation of bone mineral metabolism and confers risk for osteopenia and osteoporosis in adult women.

Interleukin 1 beta, interleukin 6, beta 2-microglobulin, and transforming growth factor-alpha in gingival crevicular fluid from human periodontal disease

Inflammatory mediators are central to the pathogenesis of periodontal diseases and may be used as markers in diagnosis. The aim of this study was to identify and quantify the various growth factors, apoptosis-related modifiers [soluble form of Fas (sFas) and bcl-2] and cytokines in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of patients with different severities of periodontitis as compared with those of controls. GCF samples were taken from patients with periodontal disease and from controls. The concentrations of epidermal growth factor, transforming growth factor (TGF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-1 beta, IL-6, interferon-gamma, beta 2-microglobulin (beta 2-MG), and apoptosis-related modifiers sFas and bcl-2 in the samples were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. TGF-alpha was significantly lower in patients with periodontal disease than in the controls. In contrast, the concentrations of IL-1 beta, IL-6; and beta 2-MG were significantly higher in the group with severe periodontal disease than in the controls. The amount of total protein in the GCF was considerably higher in the disease group than the controls (p < 0.05). TGF-alpha, IL-1 beta, and beta 2-MG concentrations were associated (Spearman rank correlation, r < 0.05 for all) with clinical measures of disease severity (pocket depth) and inflammation (bleeding when probed). Apoptosis-related modifiers (sFas and bcl-2) could not be detected in any samples. These results suggest that the growth factor TGF-alpha and certain cytokines are associated with the presence of periodontal disease.

Isolation and radiation hybrid mapping of a highly polymorphic CA repeat sequence at the human nuclear factor kappa-beta subunit 1 (NFKB1) locus

The transcriptional factor nuclear factor kappa-beta (NFKB) consists of a multicomponent protein complex that plays a major role in the regulation of many viral and cellular genes. The NFKB complex has two alternative DNA binding subunits. We isolated a polymorphic dinucleotide (CA) repeat sequence from a genomic clone containing the NFKB subunit 1 (NFKB1) gene located at 4q23-24. High heterozygosity (0.813) makes this polymorphism a useful marker in the genetic study of disorders affecting the immune response and cell differentiation.

Dietary supplementation of catechins and alpha-tocopherol accelerates the healing of trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats

The effects of dietary catechins and alpha-tocopherol on inflammatory bowel disease in rats were examined. Male 9-week-old rats were intracolonically administrated trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) and fed the experimental diets containing 0.05% catechin and 0.025% alpha-tocopherol for 1 week, then dissected. The extent of colitis-induced TNBS was assessed macroscopically. The supplementation of catechins and alpha-tocopherol significantly decreased colonic damage compared with the group fed the basal diet (the disease control). In particular, catechin feeding completely inhibited the development of colon adhesions. Colonic myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, which is a marker of neutrophil infiltration into the colonic mucosa, was lower in the groups that had been given catechins and alpha-tocopherol. The levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in colon was highest in the disease control group; however, the differences among the groups were not significant. Plasma alkaline phosphatase activity was maintained at normal levels in the rats supplemented with catechins and alpha-tocopherol. These results suggest that catechins and alpha-tocopherol have anti-inflammatory effects on TNBS-induced rat colitis.

Effects of helical structures formed by the binding arms of DNAzymes and their substrates on catalytic activity

As a part of our efforts to clarify structure-function relationships in reactions catalyzed by deoxyribozymes (DNAzymes), which were recently selected in vitro , we synthesized various chimeras and analyzed the kinetics of the corresponding cleavage reactions. We focused on the binding arms and generated helices composed of binding arms and substrates that consisted of RNA and RNA, of RNA and DNA or of DNA and DNA. As expected for the rate limiting chemical cleavage step in reactions catalyzed by DNAzymes, a linear relationship between log( k cat) and pH was observed. In all cases examined, introduction of DNA into the binding helix enhanced the rate of chemical cleavage. Comparison of CD spectra of DNAzyme. substrate complexes suggested that higher levels of B-form-like helix were associated with higher rates of cleavage of the substrate within the complex. To our surprise, the enhancement of catalytic activity that followed introduction of DNA into the binding helix (enhancement by the presence of more B-form-like helix) was very similar to that observed in the case of the hammerhead ribozymes that we had investigated previously. These data, together with other observations, strongly suggest that the reaction mechanism of metal-ion-dependent DNAzymes is almost identical to that of hammerhead ribozymes.

Structural analysis of nucleic acids by using fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET)

We examined changes in the extent of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between two different fluorochromes attached to a single oligonucleotide in the presence or absence of target nucleic acids with a specific sequence and a higher-ordered structure. In our system, FRET was maximal when probes were free in solution and a decrease in FRET was evidence of successful hybridization. Incubation of the probe with a single-stranded complementary oligonucleotide reduced the FRET. While, a small change in FRET was also observed when the probe was incubated with an oligonucleotide in which the target site had been embedded in a stable hairpin structure. These results indicate that this spectrofluorometric method and FRET probes can be used to estimate the efficacy of hybridization between a probe and its target site within highly ordered structures. It should help us to estimate the suitability of designed functional molecules, such as antisense DNA and RNA and ribozymes, that target to specific sites.

Determination of interactions between structured nucleic acids by fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET): selection of target sites for functional nucleic acids

We previously developed a method for monitoring the integrity of oligonucleotides in vitro and in vivo by quantitating fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) between two different fluorochromes attached to a single oligonucleotide. As an extension of this analysis, we examined changes in the extent of FRET in the presence or absence of target nucleic acids with a specific sequence and a higher-ordered structure. In this system FRET was maximal when probes were free in solution and a decrease in FRET was evidence of successful hybridization. We used a single-stranded oligodeoxyribonucleotide labeled at its 5'-end and its 3'-end with 6-carboxyfluorescein and 6-carboxytetramethylrhodamine, respectively. Incubation of the probe with a single-stranded complementary oligonucleotide reduced the FRET. Moreover, a small change in FRET was also observed when the probe was incubated with an oligonucleotide in which the target site had been embedded in a stable hairpin structure. The decrease in the extent of FRET depended on the length of the stem region of the hairpin structure and also on the higher-ordered structure of the probe. These results indicate that this spectrofluorometric method and FRET probes can be used to estimate the efficacy of hybridization between a probe and its target site within highly ordered structures. This conclusion based on changes in FRET was confirmed by gel-shift assays.

[Outpatient chemotherapy with continuous intravenous infusion for patients with recurrent renal cell carcinoma or advanced prostate carcinoma]

We tried outpatient chemotherapy with continuous intravenous infusion of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and cisplatin (CDDP) for patients with recurrent renal cell carcinoma or advanced prostate carcinoma. This study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of our drug delivery system using two disposable balloon pumps and subcutaneous port, subjective symptoms caused by chemotherapy, and quality of life (QOL). There were 12 patients, including 7 cases of recurrent renal cell carcinoma and 5 cases of advanced prostate carcinoma. Their performance status (PS) was grade 0 or 1. The protocol for renal cell carcinoma consisted of combined chemotherapy with continuous infusion of 5-FU 250 mg/m2/day and CDDP 3 mg/m2/day in 2 weeks for 1 cycles (4 weeks). 5-FU and CDDP were administered with the Baxter infuser pumps (Intermate LV 1.5) and after 1 week we changed the new pumps. In treating advanced prostate carcinoma, Honvan 100 mg/day was substituted for 5-FU. We experienced 2 cases of problems with the drug delivery system during 10 months, which needed a change of the subcutaneous port. QOL score and subjective symptoms showed that patients were not always free because of carrying pumps and the side effects of chemotherapy, but they can return to social life and family instead of spending much time in the hospital. In conclusion, our drug delivery system is safe for outpatient chemotherapy, and QOL of patients with home anti-cancer chemotherapy is higher than that of patients with chemotherapy in the hospital.

[The usefulness of 18F-FDG SPECT imaging in evaluating myocardial viability]

We compared myocardial viability evaluated by 18F-deoxyglucose (FDG) SPECT in 14 old myocardial infarction patients with that evaluated by 201TI SPECT and 123I-beta-methyl-iodophenyl pentadecanoic acid SPECT as imaging of fatty acid metabolism. FDG-SPECT was performed after oral administration of glucose. From each SPECT image which was divided into 7 segments, the degree of accumulation of each radioisotope (RI) was visually classified into four grades of defect score (ranging from 0 as normal to 3 as severe defect). The % uptake in the same area was also quantitatively calculated.

RESULTS

The degree of accumulation of myocardial Rl relative to regional wall motion. FDG is the most wide for a range of accumulation of Rl of infarct area. Also, at FDG, in the area of wall motion had done a disorder, the degree of accumulation was higher than other two methods. In the infarcted area, the degree of accumulation on FDG-SPECT in the area of decreased wall motion was greater than that on the other two procedures. These results suggest that FDG-SPECT is useful for evaluating myocardial viability.