Altered Transcript Levels of MMP13 and VIT Genes in the Muscle and Connective Tissue of Pigs with Umbilical Hernia

Umbilical hernia (UH) and inguinal hernia (IH) are among the most common defects in pigs, affecting their welfare and resulting in economic losses. In this study, we aimed to verify the association of previously reported differences in transcript levels of the ACAN, COL6A5, MMP13, and VIT genes with the occurrence of UH and IH. We examined mRNA levels in muscle and connective tissue from 68 animals-34 affected by UH and 34 controls. In a second cohort, we examined inguinal channel samples from 46 pigs (in four groups). We determined DNA methylation levels in muscle tissue for the UH and control animals. The transcript level of MMP13 changed in the UH cases, being upregulated and downregulated in muscle and connective tissue, respectively, and the VIT gene also showed an increased muscular mRNA level. The transcript of the ACAN gene significantly decreased in old pigs with IH. We further observed an increased DNA methylation level for one CpG site within the MMP13 gene in UH individuals. We conclude that these alterations in gene mRNA levels in the UH animals depend on the tissue and can sometimes be a consequence of, not a cause of, the affected phenotype.

Cytogenetic and molecular insight into the genetic background of disorders of sex development in seventeen cats

The genetic background of feline disorders of sex development (DSDs) is poorly understood. We performed comprehensive cytogenetic, molecular, and histological studies of 17 cats with abnormal external genitalia, unusual behavior, or tricolor coats (atypical in males). The DSD phenotype of three cats was associated with sex chromosome abnormalities: X/Y translocation (38,XX^SRY+), 37,X/38,XY mosaicism, and XX/XY leukocyte chimerism. The remaining 14 affected cats were classified as XY DSD (SRY-positive). In this group and 38 normal males, we analyzed a priori selected candidate genes (SRY, TAC3, CYP11B1 and LHCGR). Only a previously reported nonpathogenic variant was found in SRY. Moreover, SRY gene copy number was determined, and three variants were observed: 6, 5 (modal), and 4 copies in a single DSD case. The known variants in TAC3 and CYP11B1, responsible for testicular hypoplasia, persistent primary dentition or congenital adrenal hyperplasia, were not found in the study group. Nine novel polymorphisms were identified in the LHCGR gene, one of which, a potentially regulatory indel variant in 5'UTR, was significantly associated (p = 0.0467) with XY DSD. Our report confirmed that abnormalities of sex chromosomes are important causes of feline DSDs. We also showed that the indel variant of LHCGR can be considered a promising marker associated with XY DSD phenotype.

Whole genome sequencing identifies a missense polymorphism in PADI6 associated with testicular/ovotesticular XX disorder of sex development in dogs

Disorders of sex development (DSDs) are congenital malformations defined as discrepancies between sex chromosomes and phenotypical sex. Testicular or ovotesticular XX DSDs are frequently observed in female dogs, while monogenic XY DSDs are less frequent. Here, we applied whole genome sequencing (WGS) to search for causative mutations in XX DSD females in French Bulldogs (FB) and American Staffordshire Terries (AST) and in XY DSD Yorkshire Terries (YT). The WGS results were validated by Sanger sequencing and ddPCR. It was shown that a missense SNP of the PADI6 gene, is significantly associated with the XX DSD (SRY-negative) phenotype in AST (P = 0.0051) and FB (P = 0.0306). On the contrary, we did not find any associated variant with XY DSD in YTs. Our study suggests that the genetic background of the XX DSD may be more complex and breed-specific.

Chromosome abnormalities in dogs with disorders of sex development (DSD)

Disorders of sex development (DSD) caused by chromosome abnormalities are rarely diagnosed in dogs. In this report, there is a focus on five DSD cases in which the dogs had abnormal karyotypes. All animals were recognized by owners as females, however, these dogs had a large number of reproductive defects. Among these were abnormal external genitalia such as an enlarged clitoris, abnormal development of the labia, abnormal location of the vulva and urethral orifice, and other abnormalities were observed in four dogs. Gonadal histology assessments were conducted on three dogs and there were diagnoses of the presence of an ovary, inactive testes, and ovotestis with calcification in ovarian follicles. Results from cytogenetic analysis indicated there were the following karyotypes: (a) X trisomy in a mosaic form (79,XXX/78,XX); (b) Robertsonian translocation in a mosaic form (77,XX,rob/78,XX); (c) nonmosaic X/autosome translocation (78,X,t(X;A)); (d) X/autosome translocation in a mosaic form (78,X,t(X;A)/78,XX); and (e) leukocyte chimerism (78,XX/78,XY). The findings in the present study, emphasize that cytogenetic analysis is essential for elucidating the pathogenesis of DSD in dogs.

Screening for structural variants of four candidate genes in dogs with disorders of sex development revealed the first case of a large deletion in NR5A1

Disorders of sex development (DSD) are important causes of infertility and sterility, and are risk factors for gonadal carcinogenesis. Many DSDs are caused by genetic factors, mainly sex chromosome abnormalities or mutations of genes involved in sexual development, as well as structural variants (SVs) - large deletions, duplications, and insertions, if these overlap genes involved in sex development. The aim of this study was to determine if there were SVs in four candidate genes - NR0B1 (DAX1), NR5A1, RSPO1, and SOX3 - using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). There was study of two cohorts of dogs with DSD, including 55 animals with XX DSD and 15 with XY DSD. In addition, 40 control females and 10 control males were included in the study. Among cases, for which there were evaluations, a large deletion consisting of four exons of the NR5A1 gene was identified in a Yorkshire Terrier with a rudimentary penis, hypospadias, bilateral cryptorchidism, and spermatogenesis inactive testes. This is the first mutation in the NR5A1 gene leading to XY DSD phenotype to be reported in domestic animals. There were no SVs in the genes evaluated in the present study in the cohort of dogs with XX DSD. The results from this study provide evidence that the large structural variants of these genes are rarely associated with the DSD phenotype in dogs.

Disorders of Sex Development Are an Emerging Problem in French Bulldogs: A Description of Six New Cases and a Review of the Literature

Disorders of sex development (DSD) are a well-known cause of sterility and reduced fertility in dogs. Here, we report on 6 new cases of DSD in French bulldogs diagnosed by us within the last year. The animals were phenotypical females who underwent detailed diagnosis due to the presence of an enlarged clitoris or a penis-like structure with atypically located urethral orifice (hypospadias). A female karyotype (78,XX) and lack of Y-linked genes (SRY and ZFY) were observed in 5 cases, which were classified as XX (SRY-negative) DSD. Gonads histology could be performed in 4 XX DSD cases: testicular tissue was observed in 3 cases and ovotesticular tissue in 1 case. In the last case, leukocyte chimerism (XX/XY) was detected alongside an ovotestis with epididymis and fallopian tubes. This case was classified as freemartinism. Our study and a literature review showed that heritable XX (SRY-negative) DSD is quite common in French bulldogs, but spontaneously developed freemartinism can be also diagnosed. In conclusion, we postulate that the description of the sexual phenotype of DSD females (enlarged clitoris and presence of testicular tissue) does not distinguish between hereditary XX DSD and nonhereditary freemartinism. Cytogenetic and molecular analyses are thus necessary to correctly diagnose such cases. This is especially important for the French bulldog breed, as a rapid increase in its population could spread hereditary DSD.

Association between polymorphisms in the SOX9 region and canine disorder of sex development (78,XX; SRY-negative) revisited in a multibreed case-control study

Testicular or ovotesticular disorders of sex development (DSD) in individuals with female karyotype (XX) lacking the SRY gene has been observed in several mammalian species, including dogs. A genetic background for this abnormality has been extensively sought, and the region harboring the SOX9 gene has often been considered key in canine DSD. Three types of polymorphism have been studied in this region to date: a) copy number variation (CNV) in a region about 400 kb upstream of SOX9, named CNVR1; b) duplication of SOX9; and c) insertion of a single G-nucleotide (rs852549625) approximately 2.2 Mb upstream of SOX9. The aim of this study was thus to comprehensively analyze these polymorphisms in a large multibreed case-control cohort containing 45 XX DSD dogs, representing 23 breeds. The control set contained 57 fertile females. Droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) was used to study CNVR1 and the duplication of SOX9. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) was used to visualize copy numbers on a cellular level. The Sanger sequencing approach was performed to analyze the region harboring the G-insertion. We confirmed that CNVR1 is highly polymorphic and that copy numbers varied between 0 and 7 in the case and control cohorts. Interestingly, the number of copies was significantly higher (P = 0.038) in XX DSD dogs (mean = 2.7) than in the control females (mean = 2.0) but not in all studied breeds. Duplication of the SOX9 gene was noted only in a single XX DSD dog (an American Bully), which had three copies of SOX9. Distribution of the G-nucleotide insertion was similar in the XX DSD (frequency 0.20) and control (frequency 0.14) cohorts. Concluding, our study showed that CNVR1, located upstream of SOX9, is associated with the XX DSD phenotype, though in a breed-specific manner. Duplication of the SOX9 gene is a rare cause of this disorder in dogs. Moreover, we did not observe any association of G-insertion with the DSD phenotype. We assume that the genetic background of XX DSD can be different in certain breeds.

Disorders of sex development in cats with different complements of sex chromosomes

The genetic background of disorders of sex development (DSDs) in cats is poorly understood, due to a relatively low number of such studies in this species. Here we present three new DSD cases with different complements of sex chromosomes. The first, an Oriental Shorthair cat with a rudimentary penis, abdominal atrophic testicles and lack of uterus appeared to be a freemartin, since leucocyte chimerism XX/XY and a lack of Y-linked genes (SRY and ZFY) were observed in DNA isolated from hair follicles. XXY trisomy was identified in the second case, a tortoiseshell Devon Rex male cat with atrophic scrotal testicles and a normal penis. Finally, a European Shorthair cat with atrophic testicles in a bifid scrotum, rudimentary penis and a lack of uterus had XY complement, including Y chromosome of normal size and morphology. Also presence of eight Y-linked genes, detected by PCR, was confirmed. Due to the low testosterone level in this last patient, we searched for a causative mutation in two candidate genes (HSD3B2 and HSD17B3) involved in the metabolism of this steroid hormone. Altogether, five polymorphic sites in HSD3B2 and two in HSD17B3 were found, but none of them showed associations with DSD phenotype. We thus excluded a possibility that the causative mutation is present in these genes. In conclusion, we confirmed that analysis of the sex chromosome complement is a crucial step in diagnosis of DSDs. However, extensive molecular studies of the genes involved in sex development are needed to elucidate the causes of DSDs in cats with normal complements of sex chromosomes.

Disorder of sex development in a cat with chromosome mosaicism 37,X/38,X,r(Y)

An 18-month-old European shorthair cat was subjected to genetic studies due to ambiguous external genitalia (underdeveloped both penis and scrotum). Further anatomic and histopathological studies revealed the presence of abdominal, atrophic testes and uterus. Cytogenetic analysis showed two cell lines, one with X monosomy-37,X [90% of the analysed metaphase spreads], and other line had 38 chromosomes with normal X chromosome and abnormally small Y-derived chromosome-38,X,der(Y) [10%]. Further fluorescence in situ hybridization study with telomeric probe revealed a ring structure of the der(Y). Eight Y chromosome-specific genes, SRY, TETY1, TETY2, CUL4BY, CYORF15, HSFY, FLJ36031Y and ZFY, were detected. We conclude that the described abnormality of the reproductive system, leading to sterility, was caused by a very rare type of chromosomal mosaicism-37,X/38,X,r(Y).

An immunohistochemical analysis of lymphocytic infiltrations in canine skin cancers

Lymphocytic infiltrations located in the extracellular matrix often accompany canine skin cancer. They can be characterised as an inflammatory infiltration and/or a second tumour - lymphoma. The aim of this study was an immunohistochemical analysis of a lymphocytic infiltration which accompanies spontaneous skin cancer. Twenty basal cell carcinoma, 20 non-keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma, 20 keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma and 8 sebaceous gland carcinoma samples which were accompanied by a lymphocytic infiltration and/or secondary lymphatic follicles were verified histopathologically. The expression of bcl-2, CD3, CD79α, Ki-67, MCM-3 and MCM-7 in the lymphocytic infiltration was evaluated. Four types of lymphocytic infiltrations were found: I - diffuse bcl-2+, II - diffuse bcl-2-, III - follicular bcl-2+/- where the centre was bcl-2-, and the marginal zone of the follicles and the extrafollicular area were bcl-2+ and IV - aggregated bcl-2+, where the centre and periphery were bcl-2+. The I and IV type corresponds to lymphoma, II type is non-neoplastic immune response and III type suggest reactive follicular hyperplasia. The proliferation of lymphocytes which demonstrated the expression of neoplastic markers (I and IV), suggests preneoplastic phase (pseudolymphoma) or lymphoma - the second independent tumour. A high proliferative index of the follicular blc-2+/- follicular infiltration indicates an increased immunological response of the host against skin cancer.

Morphological analysis of testicles in cats with disorders of sex development

Disorders of sex development (DSD) are rare in cats. They can be caused by chromosomal aberrations, gene mutations or other undefined factors. The aim of the present study was to compare the histological structure and immunohistochemical reactivity of testes in cats with DSD and in healthy cats. The research material consisted of the gonads of four cats - phenotypic males with an incorrect structure of the reproductive system. The control group consisted of the testes of four healthy cats - routinely castrated phenotypical males. The material was fixed with formalin and embedded in paraffin; the sections were stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The immunohistochemical investigation were performed using monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies directed against desmin, vimentin, actin of smooth muscles, S100 protein and MCM3 protein. The results obtained allow concluding that the testes of cats with DSD differed in certain respects, mainly in the number of blood vessels, from the normal testes. Moreover, the results of immunohistochemical examination indicate that in the testes of cats with DSD the number of supporting cells is lower, the amount of interstitial cells is comparable and spermatogenesis is correct es compared to those determined in the control gonads. The number of blood vessels in cats with DSD is reduced by about 30%. It confirms the recommendations for castration of these animals in order to eliminate the potential inheritance of sex development disorders.

A novel canine B-cell leukaemia cell line. Establishment, characterisation and sensitivity to chemotherapeutics

We established a new B-cell leukaemia cell line CLB70 from a dog with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. This cell line is positive for CD20, CD45, CD79a, MHC class II, IgG, IgM; weakly positive for CD21; and negative for CD3, CD4, CD5, CD8, CD14, CD34, CD117. PCR for antigen receptor gene rearrangement (PARR) analysis revealed a biclonal immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) gene rearrangement and negative result for TCRγ. Western blot analysis of anti- and pro-apoptotic proteins showed increased expression of Bcl-2, Mcl-1, NF-kB, and Ras, and decreased expression of p53. CLB70 cells grow rapidly in vitro and are tumourigenic in nude mice. The CLB70 line is highly sensitive to doxorubicin, less sensitive to etoposide and imatinib, and resistant to piroxicam, celecoxib and dexamethasone. Our results indicate that CLB70 cells are derived from mature B-cells and they may be a useful tool for the development of new therapeutic strategies for both dogs and humans.

Comparative analysis of markers of cell proliferation in canine mast cell tumours according to current classifications

The study aimed at immunohistochemical analysis of various markers of cell proliferation and comparison of the results with canine mast cell tumours grading systems according to the Patnaik and Kiupel. Tissue sections were stained using classical technique with haematoxylin and eosin, and immunohistochemical studies were performed with Ki-67, PCNA and MCM-3 antibodies. Additionally the mitotic index was assessed. Statistical analysis including rank correlation Spearman's and ANOVA Friedman analysis was performed. The significance was set at p<0.05. Expression of all examined antigens was detected. The results obtained allow concluding that there is a strong relationship between all the cell markers. However, due to the very strong response and positive reaction in the majority of tumours PCNA is not recommended as a prognostic indicator. Ki-67 and MCM-3 can be successfully used in the evaluation of canine mast cell tumours.

Immunohistochemical diagnostic of hibernoma in dog

The diagnosis of hibernoma is uncommon in veterinary medicine. In this report, we present an attempt to confirm hibernoma diagnosed in dogs by applying immunohistochemical tests routinely used in human pathology i.e. antibodies specific to protein S100, protein CD31, or smooth muscle actin (SMA).

The first case of 38,XX (SRY-positive) disorder of sex development in a cat

Background

SRY-positive XX testicular disorder of sex development (DSD) caused by X;Y translocations was not yet reported in domestic animals. In humans it is rarely diagnosed and a majority of clinical features resemble those which are typical for Klinefelter syndrome (KS). Here we describe the first case of SRY-positive XX DSD in a tortoiseshell cat with a rudimentary penis and a lack of scrotum.

Results

Molecular analysis showed the presence of two Y-linked genes (SRY and ZFY) and a normal sequence of the SRY gene. Application of classical cytogenetic techniques revealed two X chromosomes (38,XX), but further FISH studies with the use of the whole X chromosome painting probe and BAC probes specific to the Yp chromosome facilitated identification of Xp;Yp translocation. The SRY gene was localised at a distal position of Xp. The karyotype of the studied case was described as: 38,XX.ish der(X)t(X;Y)(p22;p12)(SRY+). Moreover, the X inactivation status assessed by a sequential R-banding and FISH with the SRY-specific probe showed a random inactivation of the derivative X^SRY chromosome.

Conclusions

Our study showed that among DSD tortoiseshell cats, apart from XXY trisomy and XX/XY chimerism, also SRY-positive XX cases may occur. It is hypothesized that the extremely rare occurrence of this abnormality in domestic animals, when compared with humans, may be associated with a different organisation of the Yp arm in these species.

X monosomy in a virilized female cat

An infertile Siamese female cat was subjected for clinical, histological, cytogenetic and molecular studies due to ambiguous external genitalia (vulva, vagina, rudimentary penis and scrotum-like structure) and masculine behaviour. An elevated oestrogen activity and a detectable level of testosterone were found. The cat underwent laparotomy. The gonads and the uterus were removed and subjected for histological studies, which showed ovaries with corpora lutea and a some primordial follicles. Chromosome studies of lymphocyte and fibroblast cultures, with the use of Giemsa staining, G-banding and whole X chromosome painting by fluorescence in situ hybridization, revealed pure X monosomy. Molecular analysis showed the absence of the SRY gene. Our study revealed for the first time that X monosomy in cats may be associated with virilization, in spite of the lack of the SRY gene.

The protective effect of the Cornus mas fruits (cornelian cherry) on hypertriglyceridemia and atherosclerosis through PPARα activation in hypercholesterolemic rabbits

Cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.) fruits have been used in traditional cuisine and in folk medicine in various countries. This study was conducted to evaluate the constituents and impact of cornelian cherry (C. mas L.) fruits lyophilisate on lipid levels, PPARα protein expression, atheromatous changes in the aorta, oxido-redox state, and proinflammatory cytokines in hypercholesterolemic rabbits. The HPLC-MS method was used for determining active constituents in cornelian cherry. In a subsequent in vivo study the protective effect of the cornelian cherry on diet-induced hyperlipidemia was studied using a rabbit model fed 1% cholesterol. Cornelian cherry (100mg/kg b.w.) or simvastatin (5mg/kg b.w.) were administered orally for 60 days. Two iridoids - loganic acid and cornuside - and five anthocyanins were identified as the main constituents of the cornelian cherry. The administering of the cornelian cherry led to a 44% significant decrease in serum triglyceride levels, as well as prevented development of atheromatous changes in the thoracic aorta. Cornelian cherry significantly increased PPARα protein expression in the liver, indicating that its hypolipidemic effect may stem from enhanced fatty acid catabolism. Simvastatin treatment did not affect PPAR-α expression. Moreover, the cornelian cherry had a significant protective effect on diet-induced oxidative stress in the liver, as well as restored upregulated proinflammatory cytokines serum levels. In conclusion, we have shown loganic acid to be the main iridoid constituent in the European cultivar of the cornelian cherry, and proven that the cornelian cherry could have protective effects on diet-induced hypertriglicerydemia and atherosclerosis through enhanced PPARα protein expression and via regulating oxidative stress and inflammation.

Testicular disorder of sex development in four cats with a male karyotype (38,XY; SRY-positive)

The molecular background of disorders of sex development (DSD) in cats is poorly recognized. In this study we present cytogenetic, molecular and histological analyses of four cats subjected for the analysis due to ambiguous external genitalia. Three cases, with rudimentary penises and an abnormal position of the urethral orifice, represented different types of hypospadias. The fourth case had a normal penis, a blind vulva and spermatogenetically active testes. Histological studies showed structures typical of testes, but spermatogenic activity was observed in two cats only. All the cats had a normal male chromosome complement (38,XY) and the Y-chromosome linked genes (SRY and ZFY) were also detected. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), with the use of the feline BAC probe harboring the SRY gene, excluded the possibility of chromosome translocation of the Y chromosome fragment carrying the SRY gene onto another chromosome. Sequencing of four candidate genes (SRY--sex determining region Y; AR--androgen receptor; SRD5A2--steroid-5-alfa reductase 2 and MAMLD1--mastermind-like domain containing (1) revealed one SNP in the SRY gene, one common polymorphism in exon 1 of the AR gene (tandem repeat of a tri-nucleotide motif--CAG), six polymorphisms (5 SNPs and 1 indel) in the SRD5A2 gene and one SNP in the MAMLD1 gene. Molecular studies of the candidate genes showed no association with the identified polymorphisms, thus molecular background of the studied DSD phenotypes remains unknown.

Immunophenotypic characterization of canine malignant lymphoma: a retrospective study of cases diagnosed in Poland Lower Silesia, over the period 2011-2013

Lymphoma is the most frequently diagnosed cancer of the canine haematopoietic system. In this study, the flow cytometry and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis were used to characterize a series of canine lymphomas in detail. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of B- and T-cell high-grade lymphomas and their immunophenotypic characterization in Lower Silesia, Poland. The results show that the frequency of each type of lymphoma is 71% for B-cell and 17% for T-cell lymphomas. In two cases the PCR techniques confirmed the presence of simultaneous double gene rearrangements of the BCR and TCR receptors.

Adverse effects associated with high-dose acetylsalicylic acid and sodium salicylate treatment in broilers

1. Acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and sodium salicylate (SS) are considered safe for poultry and often used in avian medicine. However, information on tolerance and specific side effects of these drugs in birds is lacking. 2. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of 14 d administration of high doses (200 or 400 mg/kg) of either ASA or SS on body weight gain, blood biochemistry, white and red blood cell counts and pathology in broilers. In addition, minimal plasma salicylate concentrations were determined on the 1st, 5th, 10th and 14th d of treatment. 3. The results showed that the dose of 400 mg/kg of either ASA or SS decreased weight gain and induced gizzard ulceration. Kidney to body weight ratio was increased in a dose-dependent manner, but serum concentrations of creatinine and uric acid were not affected. A time-dependent decrease in the minimal plasma salicylate concentration was evident.

The influence of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and 1,24-dihydroxyvitamin D3 on alphavbeta3 integrin expression in cancer cell lines

Integrins are cell-surface receptors engaged in important cancer invasion processes, such as adhesion, migration, proliferation and differentiation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol) and its metabolite 1,24-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (PRI-2191) on alphavbeta3 integrin expression in various cancer cell lines. The expression levels of the beta3 and alphav integrins were reduced only in the WEHI-3 and LLC cell lines by the two compounds. Calcitriol or PRI-2191 treatment caused differentiation of WEHI-3 mouse leukemia cells, but apoptosis of LLC cells. WEHI-3 and LLC cells exposed to calcitriol or PRI-2191 lost their migratory and adhesive potentials. The inhibition of migratory potential was higher in the LLC cells than in the WEHI-3 cells and appeared to correlate with the increased down-regulation of alphavbeta3 integrin by calcitriol or PRI-2191. The observed in vivo effects (antitumor and antimetastatic) in mice bearing subcutaneously transplanted LLC cancer are possibly associated with inhibited migratory potential as a consequence of the lowered integrin expression caused by calcitriol or PRI-2191.

Lack of the SOX9 gene polymorphism in sex reversal dogs (78,XX; SRY negative)

The molecular background of the most frequent intersexuality syndrome in dogs (female-to-male sex reversal with the female karyotype and a lack of the SRY gene) is unknown. In this article, new cases of this syndrome are described in two unrelated American Staffordshire terrier dogs and one miniature pinscher dog subjected to cytogenetic and molecular analysis due to the presence of an enlarged clitoris. One dog was operated on and histological studies of the gonads revealed a testicular structure without signs of spermatogenesis, but the uterus wall appeared to be normal. All three dogs had female chromosome complements and lacked the Y-linked genes SRY and ZFY. Eight fragments, representing the vast majority of the coding sequence of the SOX9 gene, and two fragments of the 5' flanking region of this gene were analyzed. The studied fragments had identical DNA sequences when comparing the intersexual dogs with GenBank sequences (AY237827; NW139883). Thus a mutation in the coding sequence as well as the promoter region of the SOX9 gene might be excluded as a cause of this type of intersexuality. The importance of further studies of the 5' flanking region of this gene is discussed.

Influence of the structure of new anthracycline antibiotics on their biological properties

In the search for new derivatives of anthracycline antibiotics with advantageous biological properties, particularly with lower toxicity and/or higher activity, a series of new analogs of antibiotics applied in therapy such as daunorubicin, doxorubicin, as well as epidoxorubicin and, for comparison, analogs of epidaunorubicin, have been synthesized. Our results show that the new derivatives have antiproliferative activities similar to or higher than the parent antibiotics. The toxicities of these analogs were significantly lower, with LD50 values from 1.8- to 18.4-fold higher than the referential drugs. Cardiotoxicity determinations, using male mice treated with a single dose of 75% of the LD50 values of all tested compounds, indicated that the cardiotoxicity of the new analogs is significantly lower than that of the parent drugs.

Studies on nucleolar organiser regions (AgNors) in selected spontaneous and transplantable animal tumors

Behaviour of argyrophilic nucleolus organising regions (AgNOR) was estimated in various types of spontaneous and transplantable tumors in animals. The studies were performed on spontaneous epithelial and mesenchymal tumors, malignant and non-malignant, as well as transplantable tumors: Morris hepatoma, mammary gland carcinoma and Yoshid sarcoma. The examinations were made on paraffin sections, using silver-staining method according to Ploton et al. Quantitative assessment was made with computer-aided microscopic image analysis system Multi-Scan Base V.8 for Windows, coupled with Carl Zeiss microscope. It was demonstrated that AgNOR index reflects malignancy of the tumor, since it increases clearly in cancers and sarcomas, both spontaneous and transplantable. The highest AgNOR index--0.13--was noted in the group of spontaneous tumors in epithelial malignant tumors, and in the group of transplantable tumors in mesenchymal tumors (Yoshid sarcoma) it was 0.15. Classification of the studied spontaneous and transplantable tumors into groups of the same histogenesis, though phenotypically different, was aimed at demonstration of the increasing tendency of AgNOR index.

Changes in gene expression in the lungs of Mg-deficient mice are related to an inflammatory process

It has been well documented that experimental hypomagnesemia in rodents evokes, as an early consequence, an inflammatory response. This also leads to the activation of cells producing reactive species of oxygen and, as a result, to the oxidative damage of tissues. Several studies have shown that lungs might be a specific target of Mg deficiency. Here, we report that 3 weeks of Mg deficiency in mice resulted in inflammatory processes in the lungs, including interstitial and perivascular pneumonia, manifested by the infiltration of leukocytes, plasmocytes and histiocytes, as well as the phenomenon of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). These phenomena were accompanied by changes in gene expression assessed by cDNA array. In this study we identified 26 genes significantly changed by Mg deficiency, mostly involved in the anti-oxidative response, regulation of cell cycle and growth, apoptosis as well as cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions. We conclude that these changes are related to the phenomena of inflammatory and oxidative processes and consecutive remodeling occurring in the tissues as a result of Mg deficiency. This may have implications for at least several lung pathologies, including allergies, asthma, SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) or facilitate formation of lung metastases.

Immunocytochemical identification of neoplastic cell clone in phase S of cell cycle in transplantable rat tumors

Wistar and Buffalo rats of both sexes, aged 4 months, were divided into three groups: I which was given an intramuscular injection of 3 x 10(6) cells of Morris hepatoma (Buffalo males), II--subcutaneous injection of 3 x 10(4) cells of mammary gland carcinoma (Wistar females), III--intraperitoneal injection of 3 x 10(4) cells of Yoshid sarcoma (Wistar males). The animals were killed: in group I--19, group II--13 and in group III--6 days after tumor transplantation. Twenty four hours before euthanasia the rats were given 5-brome-2'-deoxyuridine (BRd-U) at a dose of 50 mg/kg body mass. The control group consisted of animals with tumour. They were not treated with BRd-U. Immunocytochemical reaction was performed on the sections of tumors, using monoclonal anti-BRd-U clone BU-33, Sigma. Computer measurements of tumor cells were carried out. There was a high similarity in morphological parameters between two kinds of cancer, and clear differences between them and Yoshid sarcoma. The main difference was noted in a twofold increase in the quantity of synthesised DNA in the nuclei of sarcoma cells. Immunocytochemical identification of tumor cells in phase S of the cell cycle with the use of monoclonal anti-BRd-U antibody is a precise and quick method of estimation of their proliferative potential.

Ultrastructural studies on malignant lymphoma in dogs, with the use of computer imaging

Malignant lymphoma is one among the most often diagnosed malignant tumors in dogs. In the course of the disease lymphatic glands become enlarged and infiltrations form in internal organs or skin. Studies on the ultrastructure of neoplastic lymphocytes were carried out on a formalin-fixed and parafin-embedded material with a Hulquist and Karlsson's method. Numerous aplastic cells with large nuclei, abundan eu- or heterochromatin and unstabilised nucleolus were observed on TEM slides. The cells differed clearly from normal lymphocytes with highly condesed heterochromatin and stabilised nucleoli.