DHCR7 links cholesterol synthesis with neuronal development and axonal integrity

The DHCR7 enzyme converts 7-DHC into cholesterol. Mutations in DHCR7 can block cholesterol production, leading to abnormal accumulation of 7-DHC and causing Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS). SLOS is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by multiple malformations, including microcephaly, intellectual disability, behavior reminiscent of autism, sleep disturbances, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-like hyperactivity. Although 7-DHC affects neuronal differentiation in ex vivo experiments, the precise mechanism of SLOS remains unclear. We generated Dhcr7 deficient (dhcr7-/-) zebrafish that exhibited key features of SLOS, including microcephaly, decreased neural stem cell pools, and behavioral phenotypes similar to those of ADHD-like hyperactivity. These zebrafish demonstrated compromised myelination, synaptic anomalies, and neurotransmitter imbalances. The axons of the dhcr7-/- zebrafish showed increased lysosomes and attenuated autophagy, suggesting that autophagy-related neuronal homeostasis is disrupted.

Behavioral and neurotransmitter changes on antiepileptic drugs treatment in the zebrafish pentylenetetrazol-induced seizure model

Epilepsy, a recurrent neurological disorder involving abnormal neurotransmitter kinetics in the brain, has emerged as a global health concern. The mechanism of epileptic seizures is thought to involve a relative imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters. Despite the recent advances in clinical and basic research on the pathogenesis of epilepsy, the complex relationship between the neurotransmitter changes and behavior with and without antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) during seizures remains unclear. To investigate the effects of AEDs such as levetiracetam (LEV), carbamazepine (CBZ), and fenfluramine (FFR) on key neurotransmitters in the pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizures in adult zebrafish, we examined the changes in glutamic acid, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), serotonin (5-HT), 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5-HIAA), choline, acetylcholine, norepinephrine, dopamine (DA), 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), and adenosine. In this study, we observed that 5-HT and DA levels in the brain increased immediately after PTZ-induced seizures. Behavioral tests clearly showed that all of these AEDs suppressed the PTZ-induced seizures. Upon treatment of PTZ-induced seizures with these AEDs, CBZ decreased the glutamic acid and FFR increased the GABA levels; however, no neurotransmitter changes were observed in the brain after LEV administration. Thus, we demonstrated a series of neurotransmitter changes linked to behavioral changes during PTZ-induced epileptic seizures when LEV, CBZ, or FFR were administered. These findings will lead to a more detailed understanding of the pathogenesis of epilepsy associated with behavioral and neurotransmitter changes under AED treatment.

Hepatic extracellular ATP/adenosine dynamics in zebrafish models of alcoholic and metabolic steatotic liver disease

Steatotic liver disease (SLD) is a burgeoning health problem predominantly associated with excessive alcohol consumption, which causes alcohol-related liver disease (ALD), and high caloric intake, which results in metabolic dysfunction-associated SLD (MASLD). The pathogenesis of ALD and MASLD, which can progress from steatohepatitis to more severe conditions such as liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, is complicated by several factors. Recently, extracellular ATP and adenosine (Ado), as damage-associated molecular patterns, were reported to promote inflammation and liver fibrosis, contributing to SLD pathogenesis. Here, we explored the in vivo dynamics of hepatic extracellular ATP and Ado during the progression of steatohepatitis using a genetically encoded GPCR-activation-based sensor (GRAB) in zebrafish models. We established hepatocyte-specific GRABATP and GRABAdo in zebrafish and investigated the changes in in vivo hepatic extracellular ATP and Ado levels under ALD or MASLD conditions. Disease-specific changes in hepatocyte extracellular ATP and Ado levels were observed, clearly indicating a correlation between hepatocyte extracellular ATP/Ado dynamics and disease progression. Furthermore, clodronate, a vesicular nucleotide transporter inhibitor, alleviated the MASLD phenotype by reducing the hepatic extracellular ATP and Ado content. These findings provide deep insights into extracellular ATP/Ado dynamics in disease progression, suggesting therapeutic potential for ALD and MASLD.

Behavioral and neurological effects of Vrk1 deficiency in zebrafish

Vaccinia-related kinase 1 (VRK1) is a serine/threonine kinase, for which mutations have been reported cause to neurodegenerative diseases, including spinal muscular atrophy, characterized by microcephaly, motor dysfunction, and impaired cognitive function, in humans. Partial Vrk1 knockdown in mice has been associated with microcephaly and impaired motor function. However, the pathophysiological relationship between VRK1 and neurodegenerative disorders and the precise mechanism of VRK1-related microcephaly and motor function deficits have not been fully investigated. To address this, in this study, we established vrk1-deficient (vrk1-/-) zebrafish and found that they show mild microcephaly and impaired motor function with a low brain dopamine content. Furthermore, vrk1-/- zebrafish exhibited decreased cell proliferation, defects in nuclear envelope formation, and heterochromatin formation in the brain. To our knowledge, this is the first report demonstrating the important role of VRK1 in microcephaly and motor dysfunction in vivo using vrk1-/- zebrafish. These findings contribute to elucidating the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying VRK1-mediated neurodegenerative diseases associated with microcephaly.

Protective effect of UV-irradiated red perilla (Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton) on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in mice

UV-irradiated red perilla demonstrated promising protective effects against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in mice. UV exposure significantly enhanced the accumulation of rosmarinic acid, malonylshisonin, and shisonin in red perilla, and increased 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity. The hepatoprotective effect of UV-irradiated red perilla may be attributed to the high level of its polyphenolic compounds, which exhibit antioxidant activity.

Exosc2 deficiency leads to developmental disorders by causing a nucleotide pool imbalance in zebrafish

Exosc2 is one of the components of the exosome complex involved in RNA 3' end processing and degradation of various RNAs. Recently, EXOSC2 mutation has been reported in German families presenting short stature, hearing loss, retinitis pigmentosa, and premature aging. However, the in vivo function of EXOSC2 has been elusive. Herein, we generated Exosc2 knockout (exosc2^-/-) zebrafish that showed larval lethality 13 days post fertilization, with microcephaly, loss of spinal motor neurons, myelin deficiency, and retinitis pigmentosa. Mechanistically, Exosc2 deficiency caused impaired mRNA turnover, resulting in a nucleotide pool imbalance. Rapamycin, which modulated mRNA turnover by inhibiting the mTOR pathway, improved nucleotide pool imbalance in exosc2^-/- zebrafish, resulting in prolonged survival and partial rescue of neuronal defects. Taken together, our findings offer new insights into the disease pathogenesis caused by Exosc2 deficiency, and might help explain fundamental molecular mechanisms in neuronal diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and spinal muscular atrophy.

Direct free radical scavenging effects of water-soluble HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors

3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors, statins, are widely used for preventing cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases by controlling blood cholesterol level. Additionally, previous studies revealed the scavenging effects of statins on free radicals. We assessed direct scavenging activities of two water-soluble statins, fluvastatin and pravastatin, on multiple free radicals using electron spin resonance spectrometry with spin trapping method. We estimated reaction rate constants (k_fv for fluvastatin, and k_pv for pravastatin). Superoxide anion was scavenged by fluvastatin and pravastatin with k_fv and k_pv of 4.82 M⁻¹s⁻¹ and 49.0 M⁻¹s⁻¹, respectively. Scavenging effects of fluvastatin and pravastatin on hydroxyl radical were comparable; both k_fv and k_pv were >10⁹ M⁻¹s⁻¹. Fluvastatin also eliminated tert-butyl peroxyl radical with relative k_fv of 2.63 to that of CYPMPO, whereas pravastatin did not affect tert-butyl peroxyl radical. Nitric oxide was scavenged by fluvastatin and pravastatin with k_fv and k_pv of 68.6 M⁻¹s⁻¹ and 701 M⁻¹s⁻¹, respectively. Both fluvastatin and pravastatin had scavenging effects on superoxide anion, hydroxyl radical and nitric oxide radical. On the other hand, tert-butyl peroxyl radical was scavenged only by fluvastatin, suggesting that fluvastatin might have more potential effect than pravastatin to prevent atherosclerosis and ischemia/reperfusion injury via inhibiting oxidation of lipids.

Lactobacillus brevis KB290 With Vitamin A Ameliorates Murine Intestinal Inflammation Associated With the Increase of CD11c+ Macrophage/CD103- Dendritic Cell Ratio

BACKGROUND

The ratio of colonic anti-inflammatory CD11c+ macrophages (MPs) to inflammatory CD103- dendritic cells (DCs) plays pivotal roles in intestinal inflammation. Little is known about how the ratio is regulated by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and bifidobacteria (Bif). We investigated the contribution of LAB/Bif to this ratio.

METHODS

We established an in vitro experimental system using human myeloblastic KG-1 cells, which differentiate into CD11c+ MP-like (CD11c+ MPL) and CD103- DC-like (CD103- DCL) cells, and explored effective LAB/Bif strains. The selected strain's effect on the colonic CD11c+ MP/CD103- DC ratio and intestinal inflammation was examined in mice, and the strain's underlying mechanisms were investigated in vitro.

RESULTS

We screened 19 strains of LAB/Bif, and found that Lactobacillus brevis KB290 (KB290) increased the CD11c+ MPL/CD103- DCL cell ratio only in the presence of a vitamin A (VA) metabolite, retinoic acid (RA). Supplementation of KB290 with VA increased the CD11c+ MP/CD103- DC ratio in healthy mouse and prevented the disruption of the ratio during colitis. Supplementation of KB290 with pro-VA (β-carotene) also increased the ratio in healthy mouse and ameliorated the development of colitis. The ratio was increased by reduction of CD103- DCs (or CD103- DCL cells). Our in vitro data suggested that KB290 induced cell death in CD103- DCL cells in the presence of RA signaling.

CONCLUSIONS

Supplementation of KB290 with VA increases the colonic CD11c+ MP/CD103- DC ratio associated with the amelioration of murine colitis, suggesting a possible way to control intestinal inflammation by LAB.

Glucoraphanin Ameliorates Obesity and Insulin Resistance Through Adipose Tissue Browning and Reduction of Metabolic Endotoxemia in Mice

Low-grade sustained inflammation links obesity to insulin resistance and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, therapeutic approaches to improve systemic energy balance and chronic inflammation in obesity are limited. Pharmacological activation of nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) alleviates obesity and insulin resistance in mice; however, Nrf2 inducers are not clinically available owing to safety concerns. Thus, we examined whether dietary glucoraphanin, a stable precursor of the Nrf2 inducer sulforaphane, ameliorates systemic energy balance, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and NAFLD in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. Glucoraphanin supplementation attenuated weight gain, decreased hepatic steatosis, and improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in HFD-fed wild-type mice but not in HFD-fed Nrf2 knockout mice. Compared with vehicle-treated controls, glucoraphanin-treated HFD-fed mice had lower plasma lipopolysaccharide levels and decreased relative abundance of the gram-negative bacteria family Desulfovibrionaceae in their gut microbiomes. In HFD-fed mice, glucoraphanin increased energy expenditure and the protein expression of uncoupling protein 1 (Ucp1) in inguinal and epididymal adipose depots. Additionally, in this group, glucoraphanin attenuated hepatic lipogenic gene expression, lipid peroxidation, classically activated M1-like macrophage accumulation, and inflammatory signaling pathways. By promoting fat browning, limiting metabolic endotoxemia-related chronic inflammation, and modulating redox stress, glucoraphanin may mitigate obesity, insulin resistance, and NAFLD.

Metabolism of arachidonic, eicosapentaenoic, and docosahexaenoic acids in HepG2 cells and rat hepatocytes

The metabolism of arachidonic acid (AA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was examined in HepG2 cells, a human hepatoma cell line, and rat hepatocytes. The AA level in HepG2 cells was lower than in rat hepatocytes and incorporation of AA into HepG2 was also smaller than into rat hepatocytes. Both cells could not increase the level of cellular DHA by the addition of exogenous 22:5 (n-3); whereas, rat hepatocytes, but not HepG2 cells, increased the levels of AA from 20:3 (n-6) and EPA from 20:4 (n-3). In both cells, retroconversion of AA to 20:3 (n-6) occurred, but EPA was not retroconverted to 20:4 (n-3). These results suggested that the levels of AA and DHA in both types of cells, were regulated more severely than EPA and that the activity of fatty acid desaturation might be different between n-6 and n-3 families.

Effects of sesamin and curcumin on delta 5-desaturation and chain elongation of polyunsaturated fatty acid metabolism in primary cultured rat hepatocytes

Effects of sesamin and curcumin on delta 5-desaturation and chain elongation of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) were studied in rat primary cultured hepatocytes. When sesamin was added to culture medium containing 20:4 (n-3), rat hepatocytes after 24 h of incubation produced 20:5 (n-3) from 20:4 (n-3), whereas when incubated with 20:3 (n-6), the metabolite by delta 5-desaturation did not accumulate, and consequently, the ratio of 20:3 (n-6)/20:4 (n-6) increased with the amount of sesamin added. Curcumin was more effective than sesamin in this respect. Both sesamin and curcumin interfered with chain elongation of PUFAs. An addition of 18:3 (n-6) or 18:4 (n-3) increased the cellular concentrations of 20:3 (n-6) or 20:4 (n-3), respectively, but the simultaneous addition of sesamin or curcumin inhibited the chain elongation of C18 acids (the fatty acids with 18 carbons) into corresponding C20 and C18 acids. Similarly, the elongation from C20 of n-3 and n-6 families to C22 was also inhibited with sesamin and curcumin. These results suggested that: 1) sesamin and curcumin inhibited delta 5-desaturation of n-6 fatty acid, but not n-3 fatty acid in rat hepatocytes; 2) curcumin was more effective than sesamin; 3) chain elongation was also inhibited by sesamin and curcumin.

Association of Epstein-Barr virus with polymorphic reticulosis

We report a case of polymorphic reticulosis (PR) associated with pharyngeal replication of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). A 78-year-old man with necrotic inflammatory granulations in the nasal cavities and ulcerative tissue of the tonsils was found to have PR after an initial diagnosis of lethal midline granuloma and was found to have high antibody titers to EBV. EBV-determined nuclear antigen (EBNA) was demonstrated in pharyngeal biopsy specimens by the anti-complement immunofluorescent technique, following which dual immunofluorescence staining, EBNA and T-cell antigen analysis were performed, using a wide variety of monoclonal antibodies. All of the EBNA-positive lymphocytes in the pharyngeal biopsy specimens were found to have exclusively T-cell antigens. This case strongly suggests that some of the cases of PR related to T-cell lymphomas may be closely associated with active EBV infection.

Epstein-Barr virus infection of epithelial cells derived from primary cultures of adenoidal tissue

Epithelial cells derived from primary cultures of adenoidal tissue were exposed to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) from the throat washings of a patient with infectious mononucleosis (IM) and P3HR-1 and B95-8 cell strains. They were then examined for EBV-specific antigens by immunofluorescence. EBV from both the P3HR-1 cell strains and the throat washings of the IM patient infected the epithelial cells at the 6th and 9th days, respectively. Although the EBV-antigen-positive cells did not increase in number and disappeared at the 12th day after infection, EBV antigens of the virus's replication cycle could still be detected in the epithelial cells shed from cell culture layer at this time. However, the virus obtained from the cell-free 12th day's culture medium was incapable of transforming cord blood lymphocytes.

[Evaluation of turnover of olfactory epithelium in mice by using anti-BrdU monoclonal antibody]

Among nerve cells of vertebrates, the olfactory elements are uncommon in their capacity to turnover and to be replaced after injury. An autoradiographical and morphological observation has shown that degenerated olfactory nerve cells are reconstituted by a new population of neurons which originate from basal cells. However, an autoradiographic method requires a special isotope institute and it takes a long time for the final specimen to observe. Recently, a rapid technique without the radioisotope has been alternatively developed in which a thymidine analogue, 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU), is incorporated into replicating DNA and subsequently localized using a specific monoclonal antibody. In the present study, cell dynamics of olfactory mucosa in mice were investigated by means of immunohistological technique. The results were as follows. 1. The labelled elements were concentrated at the basal layer of the epithelium, which were observed 5 hrs after the first injection of BrdU. 2. At 15 days after administration of BrdU, the labelled elements were located in the mid-layer of the epithelium, where can be recognized as the compartment of nerve cells. 3. After 30 days, the labelled cells disappeared from the epithelium. It indicates that the period of turnover in the olfactory epithelium of mice is within 30 days. 4. Fifteen days after axotomy of the olfactory nerves, two stained patterns which were numerously or sparsely labelled regions were observed. The former is considered that immature neurons predominantly exist, and the latter is the area which mature neurons abundantly locate. It is considered that this immunohistological approach is useful for the observation of the turnover of the olfactory epithelium.

Fibrous histiocytoma of the tongue base

Fibrous histiocytomas usually occur in the dermis and superficial subcutis. Involvement of the tongue is extremely rare. A 51-year-old female, referred to us for a sore throat, was noted on intraoral examination to have a polypoid mass with a smooth mucosal surface on the base of the tongue. This lesion was excised because of its probable continuing growth. This tumor, which showed staining for alpha 1-antichymotrypsin, was pathohistologically diagnosed as fibrous histiocytoma. This was the second documented case of fibrous histiocytoma of the tongue.

Osteomyelitis of temporal bone associated with tonsillar focal infection

We report here on two cases wherein it is conceivable that the osteomyelitis of the temporal bone was brought on by secondary complications associated with tonsillar focal infection. The main change to the bone was non-specific osteomyelitis. Cryptitis of the tonsils or fibrosis surrounding the blood vessels (onion skin lesion) was characteristic findings in the pathological studies.

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) receptors on epithelial hybrid cells derived from nasopharyngeal carcinoma

We previously established an Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genome-positive epithelial hybrid cell line, designated NPC-KT, which was prepared by fusing primary epithelial cells derived from nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) with an epithelial Ad-AH cell line. In this study, we measured the presence of the EBV receptors using radiolabelled EBV. It was determined that similar amounts of Burkitt's lymphoma (BL)-derived P3HR-1 or NPC-KT-derived EBV can attach BL-derived Raji cells, but that only P3HR-1 virus can attach to NPC-KT cells. In addition, the superinfection of NPC-KT cells with P3HR-1 virus could not be inhibited by pretreatment with a monoclonal antibody against C3d (OKB7). Raji cells adsorbed with OKB7 became much less susceptible to superinfection with P3HR-1 or NPC virus. The data suggest that EBV receptors unrelated to C3d receptor exist.

Osseous hemangioma arising in the facial bone

Hemangiomas of bone are rare tumors in the facial region. In our own case, magnetic resonance imaging showed unique linear high-signal-intensity internal components in T1-weighted images. The histological study demonstrated that adipose tissue occurring in the stroma of the tumor caused the high signal intensity in T1-weighted images. We employed a vascularized calvarial bone flap to reconstruct the malar eminence after resection of the tumor.

Plunging ranula localized in the parapharyngeal space

Plunging ranulas are a mucous extravasation and usually originate from the sublingual gland. They dissect between the facial planes and muscle of the base of the tongue to the submandibular triangle. We report here a rare case of plunging ranula localized in the parapharyngeal space. The relevant anatomy is reviewed and discussed.

Interactions between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human cell lines: growth and EBV induction

Differences in in vitro growth characteristics between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genome-negative and genome-positive lymphoblastoid cell lines and between EBV genome-negative and genome-positive epithelial cell lines were investigated. All EBV genome-positive cells were able to grow in medium containing only 0.75% fetal calf serum (FCS), whereas no EBV genome-negative cells were able to grow at this low concentration. However, there was no clear difference between the growth of the two EBV genome-negative lymphoblastoid cell lines (BJAB and Ramos) and two EBV genome-positive BJAB and Ramos sublines (BJAB/B95-8 and Ramos/B95-8) in medium containing more than 2.5% FCS. On the other hand, an EBV genome-positive clone of A2L/AH epithelial hybrid cells (cl-1) grew in both concentrations of FCS better than an EBV genome-negative clone of A2L/AH cells (cl-654). In addition, there was a difference in EBV induction between EBV genome-positive lymphoblastoid (BJAB/B95-8 and Ramos/B95-8) and epithelial (cl-1) cells after treatment with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA). Treatment of BJAB/B95-8 and Ramos/B95-8 cells with TPA induced a low percentage of EBV-induced early antigen but not viral capsid antigen, whereas treatment of cl-1 cells with TPA induced both early antigen and viral capsid antigen.

Inhibitory effects of kampo medicine on Epstein-Barr virus antigen induction by tumor promoter

We have investigated the possible interaction of Japanese Kampo medicine; Shosaiko-to with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) induction by TPA (12-O-tetra-decanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate) in EBV-genome harboring cells. The effect of ether extract of Shosaiko-to was also studied on the induction of EBV by superinfection with EBV from P3HR-1 cells (P3H-EBV). Concomitant treatment of EBV-latently-infected cells (Raji and A2L/AH) with TPA and ether extract resulted in effective inhibition of EBV-antigen induction. However, in the experiments to test the influence of ether extract on EBV induction by superinfecting Raji cells with P3H-EBV, ether extract did not affect the percentage of EBV-antigen-positive cells. These data indicate that Shosaiko-to is effective to inhibit antigen synthesis induced by chemical promoters without affecting EBV-antigen induction after superinfection.

Hamartoma of the tongue

Hamartomas of the tongue are rare. A case of a 6-year-old girl with hamartoma at the base of the tongue is reported. The diagnosis was confirmed by a histopathologic examination of the mass after removal in a wedge fashion by the CO2 laser under general anesthesia. The literature is reviewed and discussed.

Differences in the ability of cells to fuse are mediated by strains of Epstein-Barr virus

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) preparations from both NPC-KT cells (NPC-EBV) and P3HR-1 cells (HR-1-EBV) can induce cell fusion between EBV receptor (EBVR)-positive Raji cells and EBVR-negative cells, but other strains of EBV cannot induce cell fusion. The effect of these two EBV isolates on ability of cells to fuse has been studied to determine if there are differences in the biological properties of the different EBV isolates, particularly the isolates obtained from nasopharyngeal carcinoma such as NPC-EBV. The frequency of cell fusion between NPC-EBV-superinfected Raji cells and EBVR-negative epithelial cells (Ad-AH) was increased more than 30-fold in the presence of medium containing 1% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). However, the frequency of cell fusion between HR-1-EBV-superinfected Raji cells and Ad-AH cells was unaffected under the same conditions. The data show that differences in the ability of cells to fuse are induced by variants of EBV in response to DMSO. These differences may be important in elucidating the different biological properties of EBV isolates and might have implications for the pathophysiology of EBV-associated illness.

Antinuclear antibodies in the sera of patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma

We studied the production of heterophile antinuclear antibodies (ANAs) in the sera of 50 patients, 20 with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and 30 with other head and neck cancers (laryngeal cancer and maxillary cancer), before and after radiation therapy. A higher incidence of ANAs was found in the sera of patients with NPC and ANA production in these patients was higher after radiation therapy. We therefore performed in vitro experiments to explore the mechanisms of ANA production in the serum of postirradiated NPC patients. X-ray-irradiated NPC-derived cells (NPC-KT) produced a large amount of Epstein-Barr virus (NPC EBV) compared with non-irradiated NPC-KT cells. Nasopharyngeal carcinoma EBV-infected lymphocytes produced high levels of ANAs. These data suggest that lymphocytes infected by EBV from NPC cells may produce ANAs in the sera of NPC patients.

[Experimental study on the effect of the topical application of steroids on olfactory disturbance in mice]

Although the topical treatment with steroids is the widespread method for olfactory disorders in human, the reports are limitted to clinical observations. The aim of this report is to evaluate the effect of topically applied of steroids in mice on the repairing course by the experimental olfactory disorders caused by zinc sulfate. The olfaction of mice was estimated by the record of behavioral task, using Cycloheximide, commonly used as repellent in rodents. When mice taste Cycloheximide for the first time, immediately the mice experience a very disagreeable taste leading to the simultaneous memory of the odor of Cycloheximide. Those who once experienced the taste and odor of Cycloheximide, will avoid simply by the odor next time. Two bottles were offered to mice, one containing distilled water and the other 0.01% Cycloheximide. When the mouse drank the distilled water, the response was interpreted as a correct response. When the Cycloheximide solution was chosen, an error. Twenty four mice were tested at ten times during a 10-minute trial, and the rates of correct response were counted. From the next day after the treatment of zinc sulfate, nasal application of 0.1% beta-methasone (group A), or nasal application of distilled water (group B) were applied to each group of twelve mice for five days. The results were as follows. 1. In the first experiment, the correct response was 85% (group A), and 80.8% (group B), however at the second trial, all responses were correct.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Differences in the ability of cells to fuse are mediated by strains of Epstein-Barr virus

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) preparations from both NPC-KT cells (NPC-EBV) and P3HR-1 cells (HR-1-EBV) can induce cell fusion between EBV receptor (EBVR)-positive Raji cells and EBVR-negative cells, but other strains of EBV cannot induce cell fusion. The effect of these two EBV isolates on ability of cells to fuse has been studied to determine if there are differences in the biological properties of the different EBV isolates, particularly the isolates obtained from nasopharyngeal carcinoma such as NPC-EBV. The frequency of cell fusion between NPC-EBV-superinfected Raji cells and EBVR-negative epithelial cells (Ad-AH) was increased more than 30-fold in the presence of medium containing 1% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). However, the frequency of cell fusion between HR-1-EBV-superinfected Raji cells and Ad-AH cells was unaffected under the same conditions. The data show that differences in the ability of cells to fuse are induced by variants of EBV in response to DMSO. These differences may be important in elucidating the different biological properties of EBV isolates and might have implications for the pathophysiology of EBV-associated illness.

Pharyngeal cyst arising from second branchial cleft

A rare case of pharyngeal cyst arising from the second branchial cleft in a 14-year-old boy is described. A cyst located in the right posterolateral wall of the oropharynx was completely removed by an intraoral approach. Histopathological examination revealed that the cyst was lined with columnar (respiratory type) epithelium.

Fibrin glue in the surgical treatment of ranulas

The essential treatment of a ranula is meticulous dissection of the thin wall of the cyst in continuity with the sublingual gland of origin. We have used a technique of fibrin glue injection into the cystic space of the ranula after it had been evacuated by aspiration. The fibrin glue within the cystic cavity prevents collapse of the wall of the cyst during surgery and facilitates and simplifies the surgical procedure by clearly outlining the involved area and by sharply delineating its thin wall.

Parapharyngeal schwannoma of the cervical sympathetic chain in a child

Parapharyngeal schwannomas of the cervical sympathetic chain are benign tumors that have not been reported in children, compared to parapharyngeal neuroblastomas. We present, to our knowledge, the youngest reported case of parapharyngeal schwannoma of the cervical sympathetic chain. The nerve of origin could be clearly ascertained when excision was made through a cervical approach.

The Epstein-Barr virus receptor on two nasopharyngeal carcinoma model cell lines

It was reported that the OKB7 monoclonal antibody to C3d receptor could directly inhibit Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) attachment to and infection of B-lymphocytes. So we tested whether the OKB7 could inhibit superinfection of two epithelial NPC model cell lines (D98/HR-1 and NPC-KT) with EBV. Pretreatment of B-lymphocytes with the OKB7 significantly inhibits EBV infection. However, pretreatment with the OKB7 had no effect on superinfection of D98/HR-1 and NPC-KT cells. These data suggest that an EBV receptor, unrelated to C3d receptor, exists.

Expression of the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) receptor on the surface of cells infected with EBV derived from nasopharyngeal carcinoma

An Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genome-positive epithelial hybrid cell line, NPC-KT, derived from the fusion of primary nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells with a human epithelial cell line of adenoid origin and a subline of EBV genome-positive Ramos cells, Ramos/NPC, converted after infection with NPC-KT EBV have been previously described (Takimoto et al., 1984; Takimoto et al., 1987). The NPC-KT cells produce virus (NPC virus) with both transforming and lytic properties. In this study, NPC-KT and Ramos/NPC cells were examined for the presence of the EBV receptor as measured by the capacity to absorb radio-labelled P3HR-1 and NPC viruses. It was determined that only P3HR-1 virus can attach to NPC-KT cells. Also, the relative concentration of NPC virus receptors on Ramos/NPC cells was found to be significantly reduced when compared to EBV genomenegative Ramos cells, whereas the relative concentration of receptors for P3HR-1 virus was similar to parental Ramos cells. The results suggest that there are differences at least in part of the receptors for P3HR-1 and NPC viruses.

Three cases of inter-sterno-costo-clavicular ossification associated with tonsillar infection

Three cases of inter-sterno-costo-clavicular ossification (ISCCO) associated with chronic tonsillitis are reported. Two cases had additional symptoms of pustulosis palmaris et plantaris (PPP). All the patients underwent tonsillectomy. The histological changes of the palatine tonsils of case 1 and case 2 were characterized by so-called focal small lacunar ulcers and periarteriolar fibrosis (onion-skin lesion). Some multinucleated giant cells were observed in case 2. Following tonsillectomy, symptoms in the clavicular region and the PPP improved. It is possible to consider that ISCCO is caused by focal tonsillar infection.

Further studies on growth characteristics of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genome-positive and -negative epithelial hybrid cell lines

Differences in tumorigenicity between the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) genome-negative and -positive epithelial A2L/AH hybrid cell lines have been described recently. Further differences in growth characteristics of the two epithelial hybrid cells have since been examined. Differences were found in doubling time and cloning efficiency in agarose of the two cell lines. In addition, the EBV genome-negative epithelial hybrid cell line (cl-654), unlike the EBV genome-positive epithelial hybrid cell line (cl-1), failed to grow in the unmanipulated nude mice, but was successfully transplanted in 60Co-irradiated nude mice. The histopathologic findings of tumors induced by the inoculation of cl-654 cells in nude mice showed more differentiated carcinoma than the findings of tumors induced by cl-1 cells. The data suggest that EBV is associated with an alteration of cell differentiation in epithelial cells as well as tumorigenicity in nude mice.

Intravagal parathyroid adenoma

An extremely rare case of intravagal parathyroid adenoma is presented. The tumour caused fusiform swelling of the left vagus nerve was shelled out. Post-operatively the left recurrent nerve palsy was recovered in the two months. Serum calcium level returned to normal on the tenth day after the surgical operation without symptoms of hypocalcaemia.

Agenesis of the cervical internal carotid artery

Total or segmental agenesis of the internal carotid artery is a rare anomaly. The cervical portion of the internal carotid artery was absent in the right side of the patient who was carried out radical surgery due to recurrent oropharyngeal cancer. Post-operative venous digital subtraction angiography revealed that the remaining intracranial portion of the internal carotid artery was normally patent and supplied blood flow via ipsilateral external carotid artery. Otolaryngologist-Head and Neck surgeon should know such a vascular anomaly and avoid a disastrous result on dividing the external carotid artery.

[Expression of an Epstein-Barr virus early antigen and cell fusion]

Superinfection of Raji cells with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) derived from P3HR-1 (P3H-EBV) leads to syncytium formation. Studies using inhibitors of DNA and protein synthesis suggest that the fusion-inducing factor belongs to the early antigen of virus-specified proteins. Induction of early antigen (EA) in Raji cells by using various chemicals also leads to syncytium formation. However, A2L/AH hybrid cells, which were prepared by fusion between epithelial cells of adenoid origin and lymphocytes transformed by B95-8 virus, could not be superinfected with P3H-EBV. But, the syncytium formation was observed when EBV-EA was induced by chemicals in A2L/AH cells. It was considered that the synthesis of viral protein in superinfected Raji cells is essential for fusion and that the viral genes, inducible in Raji and A2L/AH cells by treatment with chemicals code for the necessary functions that lead to syncytia formation.

[Suppressive effect of CDDP on induction of the Epstein-Barr virus antigen synthesis by n-butyrate]

n-Butyrate has been shown to induce Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigen synthesis in certain EBV genome-carrying lymphoblastoid cell lines. We have studied the effect of cis-dichloro-diamine-platinum (CDDP) on induction of EBV antigen synthesis not only by n-butyrate treatment of the EBV producer, P3HR-1 cells, but also by superinfection of EBV to the EBV non-producer, Raji cells. Simultaneous treatment of the cells with n-butyrate and CDDP or MMC blocked VCA and EA induction, but no suppressive effect was observed by the treatment of the cells with n-butyrate and Ara-C. The induction of EBV antigens was also observed in EBV-superinfected Raji cells, even in the presence of DNA synthesis inhibitor, CDDP or MMC. From these results, we discussed the mechanisms of the EBV antigens synthesis in EBV latently infected cells.

Electro-olfactogram (EOG) in olfactometry

The electro-olfactogram (EOG) is a potential originated in olfactory epithelium evoked by odorous stimulation, which has been demonstrated and termed by Ottoson (1959). In order to ascertain the clinical application of EOG, we attempted to record similar potentials in human subjects. In some preliminary experiments using rabbits, it was quite easy to produce Ottoson's findings. In human subjects, however, there were sometimes great technical difficulties owing to the hidden anatomical position of the olfactory epithelium. Then we utilized Olympus selfoscope endoscopy for placing and retaining the electrode to the olfactory portion precisely and safely, with a tube for sending airborne odor. As results, we succeeded in recording negative spike discharge similar to Ottoson's findings. We examined a total of 27 nasal cavities in 22 patients with peripheral olfactory disorders and 11 nasal cavities in 12 patients with central olfactory disorders. The positive EOG rate in patients with peripheral or central olfactory disorders was 28 and 69%, respectively. Moreover, the positive rate was decreased in proportion to the degree of olfactory disorders in chronic rhinosinusitis. No positive EOG was observed in anosmic nasal cavities, while it was 68% in normal persons and resulted in an equal value to anosmia group caused by the damage of central olfactory pathway. From these results, it is considered that the positive EOG study is the only method which provides objective finding for the differential diagnosis of anosmia caused by disorders of olfactory epithelium or disorders of central olfactory tract.