Usnic acid attenuates 7,12-dimethylbenz[a] anthracene (DMBA) induced oral carcinogenesis through inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell proliferation in male golden Syrian hamster model

In this study, we investigated the chemopreventive efficacy of usnic acid (UA), an effective secondary metabolite component of lichens, against 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)-induced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in the hamster model. Initially, the buccal pouch carcinogenesis was induced by administering 0.5% DMBA to the HBP (hamster buccal pouch) region about three times a week until the 10th week. Then, UA was orally treated with different concentrations (25, 50, 100 mg/kg b.wt) on alternative days of DMBA exposure, and the experimental process ended in the 16th week. After animal experimentation, we observed 100% tumor incidence with well-differentiated OSCC, dysplasia, and hyperplasia lesions in the DMBA-induced HBP region. Furthermore, the UA treatment of DMBA-induced hamster effectively inhibited tumor growth. In addition, UA upregulated antioxidant levels, interfered with the elevated lipid peroxidation by-product of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances, and changed the activities of the liver detoxification enzyme (Phase I and II) in DMBA-induced hamsters. Furthermore, immunohistochemical staining of inflammatory markers (iNOS and COX-2) and proliferative cell markers (cyclin-D1 and PCNA) were upregulated in the buccal pouch part of hamster animals induced with DMBA. Notably, the oral administration of UA significantly suppressed these markers during DMBA-induced hamsters. Collectively, our findings revealed that UA exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and apoptosis-inducing characteristics, demonstrating UA's protective properties against DMBA-induced HBP carcinogenesis.

An in vivo CRISPR base editing therapy to inactivate the ANGPTL3 gene: nomination of a development candidate for VERVE-201

Background

Lowering cumulative exposure to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is the primary treatment for patients with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HoFH) and established atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Due to access, adherence, and healthcare infrastructure limitations, an important fraction of such patients fail to achieve adequate lowering of LDL-C. Durable inactivation in the liver of a cholesterol-raising gene with a one-time therapy offers potential to address this unmet need.

Purpose

Both human genetic and pharmacologic studies have validated inactivation of the angiopoietin-like protein 3 gene (ANGPTL3) as an approach to lower LDL-C and triglyceride levels, particularly when ANGPTL3 reductions >80% can be achieved. Here, we outline a series of preclinical activities to optimize “VERVE-201”, a CRISPR base editing therapy targeting ANGPTL3.

Methods

Preclinical development efforts prioritized: (i) identification of a DNA site where editing of a single base pair inactivates ANGPTL3; and (ii) selection of a guide RNA and adenine base editor combination that precisely and specifically inactivates ANGPTL3; and (iii) a delivery approach suitable for all patients, including those with HoFH who lack sufficient low-density lipoprotein receptors (LDLR) needed for hepatic uptake of traditional lipid nanoparticles.

Results

Bioinformatic and in vitro screening of target sites in the ANGPTL3 gene identified a location where a single A•T to G•C DNA base pair edit leads to disruption of a splice donor and read through into a premature stop codon. To maximize editing of the ANGPTL3 gene while minimizing “off-target” editing elsewhere in the genome, >200 rationally engineered and chemically modified base editing and gRNA configurations were evaluated. Lead candidates were evaluated in primary human hepatocytes to quantify ANGPTL3 editing as well as any “off-target” editing at >600 candidate sites. In a cynomolgus monkey non-human primate model, a single dose of a drug product precursor that used a lipid nanoparticle delivery mechanism achieved potent and durable effects, with a 96% decrease from baseline in circulating ANGPTL3 616 days following administration. The non-human primate homologue to VERVE-201 (“VERVE-201cyno”) incorporates a GalNAc targeting ligand into the lipid nanoparticle, which bypasses LDLR to enable uptake via the liver-specific asialoglycoprotein receptor. VERVE-201cyno led to robust suppression of circulating ANGPTL3 in both a non-human primate model of HoFH and wild-type monkeys, with an average reduction of 89% and 88% respectively 90 days following administration.

Conclusions

These preclinical data provide the scientific foundation for nomination of a development candidate for VERVE-201, a “once-and-done” gene editing therapy intended to precisely, potently, and durably inactivate hepatic ANGPTL3 and thereby lower LDL-C and triglyceride concentrations permanently.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: Private company. Main funding source(s): Verve Therapeutics

Abstract 129: Apoptosis & anti-proliferative nature of Aescin on 7,12 dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis via downregulating Notch signaling

Worldwide, oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the sixth most common cancer & ranked as second most common cancer in India. The most implicated etiologic factors in the development of oral cancer is the use of tobacco, alcohol & also HPV infection. Aescin, a pentacyclic triterpenoid saponin mixtures derived from Aesculus hippocastanum L (horse chestnut) that has been used as traditional herbal medicine, exists the pharmacodynamic properties, anti- edematous, anti-inflammatory & antitumor. The present study, Tumors were induced by applying 0.5% DMBA topically to hamster buccal pouch (HBP) thrice a week for 14 weeks & Aescin was orally administered at a various dose of 40 mg/kg body weight on alternate days of DMBA painting. We observed, reduced the tumor incidence, diminished lipid peroxidation, & elevation of antioxidants, liver marker enzymes by Aescin. Furthermore, aescin induced apoptosis in DMBA induced tumor bearing animals significantly inhibited cell to cell communication of Notch-1, Notch-2 & its ligand & Jagged-1 leads to inhibited expression of the Notch downstream signaling target Hes-1 & Hey-1 analyzed by immunohistochemical analysis. These results clearly suggest that Aescin prevents lipid peroxidation, protects the antioxidant defense system, prohibit the dysplasia & anti-carcinogenic potential. we concluded; the results provide an important new insight of Notch signaling pathway & aescin might be developed as a potential chemo preventive agent for oral cancer.

Key words: Oral cancer, aescin, antioxidant, apoptosis, chemopreventive, Notch signaling

Citation Format: Hemavardhini Ramadoss, Suresh Kathiresan, Sanjay Gupta. Apoptosis & anti-proliferative nature of Aescin on 7,12 dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis via downregulating Notch signaling [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 129.

Abstract 10: Sclareol induces apoptosis and inhibits notch signaling in hamster oral carcinogenesis

The Notch signaling pathway is an evolutionarily conserved cell signaling pathway. It plays a central role in cell fate decisions and differentiation. The bioavailability of sclareol has been widely studied due to its anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant effects. However, chemo preventive effects of sclareol on notch signaling in 7, 12-dimethylbenz [a] anthracene (DMBA) induced hamster buccal pouch(HBP) carcinogenesis remain to be fully elucidated. In the present study, tumors were induced by applying 0.5% DMBA topically to HBP thrice a week for 14 weeks and sclareol was orally administered at a dose of 20mg/kg body weight on alternate days of DMBA painting. We analyzed expression of Notch signaling in DMBA induced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in experimental oral carcinogenesis and inhibition of notch signaling by sclareol. This study thus observed up regulation of Notch1, Notch2, Jagged1, Hes1 and Hey1 in DMBA alone induced hamsters. Furthermore, oral administration of sclareol led to reduced Notch1, Notch2 activation and expression of Jagged-1 and its downstream targets of Hes-1 and Hey-1 in tumor bearing hamsters. In addition, sclareol treatment increased pro-apoptotic and decreased anti-apoptotic proteins survival indicating apoptosis through activation of caspase 3, and promoting cell death by dysregulation of cyclin D1 levels in tumor bearing hamsters. Immunohistochemical examination showed that Notch intracellular domain accumulates in the nucleus of cells in DMBA induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis, and Jagged1 was found to be dysregulated in sclareol treated tumor animals. In conclusion, the results provide an important new insight of Notch signaling pathway for a potential therapeutic target for oral cancer.

Citation Format: Aiyavu Chinnaiyan, Anandhi Nallu, Suresh Kathiresan. Sclareol induces apoptosis and inhibits notch signaling in hamster oral carcinogenesis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 10.

Abstract 6557: Aescin, a triterpene saponin induces apoptosis & oxidative damage in human oral & laryngeal cancer cells via notch signaling

The incidence of Head and Neck cancer in increasing worldwide. The major risk factor for these cancers includes viral infection, smoking, alcohol and tobacco consumption. Natural agents have often exhibited medicinal properties with usefulness in treating various human ailments including cancer. Aescin is one of the most prominent constituent of Aesculus hippocastanum L. (Hippocastanaceae) seeds has been conventionally used as medicinal herb. We determined the anticancer effect of aescin on human oral carcinoma (KB) cells and human laryngeal carcinoma (HEp-2) cells. Treatment of KB cells with 25µM and HEp-2 cells with 22µM aescin for 24 hours suppressed proliferation in these cells and induced morphological changes consistent with apoptosis. Exposure of both cell lines to aescin resulted in marked increase in reactive oxygen species, loss of cell viability, and reduction of cellular glutathione levels resulting in depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential thereby increasing oxidative DNA damage in KB and HEp-2 cells. Furthermore, aescin-mediated apoptosis in these cells progress via notch signaling as shown by downregulation of Notch1, Notch2, Jagged-1, HES1, and HEY1 expression. Taken together, our results demonstrate that aescin initiate apoptosis in KB and HEp-2 cells by increasing oxidative damage implying that aescin might be developed as a potential chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of human oral and laryngeal cancer.

Key word: Oral carcinoma, Aescin, apoptosis, anti-proliferative, Notch signaling

Citation Format: Suresh Kathiresan, Hemavardhini Ramadoss, Sanjay Gupta. Aescin, a triterpene saponin induces apoptosis & oxidative damage in human oral & laryngeal cancer cells via notch signaling [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Annual Meeting of the American Association for Cancer Research 2020; 2020 Apr 27-28 and Jun 22-24. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2020;80(16 Suppl):Abstract nr 6557.

Gramine inhibits angiogenesis and induces apoptosis via modulation of TGF-β signalling in 7,12 dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) induced hamster buccal pouch carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and its receptors are considered as a novel target in cancer chemotherapy. Gramine, an indole alkaloid, possesses various pharmacological properties including antiproliferative and anticancer. However, the anti-angiogenic property remains unexplored.

PURPOSE

The present study was designed to evaluate the anti-angiogenic and apoptosis induction properties of gramine through inhibiting TGF-β on DMBA induced oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) in the hamster buccal pouch (HBP).

METHODS

The effects of gramine on TGF-β signalling in DMBA induced carcinogenic events such as angiogenesis and apoptosis were analysed by studying the mRNA expression using RT-PCR, protein expression by western blot and histopathological analysis using haematoxylin and eosin (H & E) staining.

RESULTS

Gramine significantly inhibited phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Smad2 and Smad4 by blocking activity of the TGFβ-RII, RI and activation of inhibitory Smad7. Gramine inhibited angiogenic markers such as MMP-2, MMP-9, HIF-1α, VEGF, and VEGF-R2 as well as increased TIMP-2 expression. Furthermore, gramine induced apoptosis in DMBA induced tumour bearing animals by up regulating the pro apoptotic proteins Bax, cytochrome C, apaf-1, caspase-9 caspase-3 and PARP.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we clearly demonstrated that gramine treatment diminishes angiogenesis and induces apoptosis in hamster buccal pouch (HBP) carcinogenesis by modulating TGF-β signals.

Synthesis of Recombinant P48 of Mycoplasma agalactiae by Site Directed Mutagenesis and its Immunological Characterization

Contagious agalactia caused by Mycoplasma agalactiae is an economically important disease of sheep and goats and has been prevalent worldwide including India. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the membrane protein P48 of M. agalactiae for specific diagnosis of disease. For this, p48 gene of the organism was amplified by PCR and subjected to site directed mutagenesis to convert three TGA codons to TGG's and, subsequently, cloned into prokaryotic expression vector pPRO EX HTb. Purified recombinant P48 protein reacted to anti-P48 serum in western blotting, which confirmed its immunogenic nature. Furthermore, the immune-blotting of the cell lysates from various Indian isolates of M. agalactiae against anti-P48 serum resulted in a single band at ∼ 48 kDa among all isolates, indicating the conserved nature of P48 antigen in M. agalactiae. Also, the cross reactivity of P48 antigen among various Mycoplasma spp. was checked by western blotting which revealed reactivity only with M. agalactiae and M. bovis. Hence, this antigen could be exploited to differentiate M. agalactiae from other pathogenic Mycoplasma species except M. bovis. However, the inability of P48 to distinguish M. agalactiae from M. bovis does not downgrade the significance of P48 as the two species are usually host specific.

[6]-Shogaol, a dietary phenolic compound, induces oxidative stress mediated mitochondrial dependant apoptosis through activation of proapoptotic factors in Hep-2 cells

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is a well-known herb used in ethnomedicine. [6]-shogaol, a phenolic nature is a major constituent of ginger. In this study, we investigated the anticancer activity of [6]-shogaol in Laryngeal cancer (Hep-2) cells. We demonstrated the effects of [6]-shogaol on the cell growth and apoptosis in Hep-2 cells were analyzed by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the level of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔYm), DNA damage and apoptotic morphological changes were analyzed by AO/EtBr, AO and Hoechst staining. Further, apoptotic protein expressions were analyzed by western blot analysis. Our results indicated that [6]-shogaol induces apoptosis as evidenced by loss of cell viability, enhanced ROS, lipid peroxidation results in altered mitochondrial membrane potential, increased DNA damage in Hep-2 cells. Further, the prooxidant role of [6]-shogaol inhibit Bcl-2 expression with the simultaneous up-regulation of Bax, Cytochrome c, Caspase-9 and -3 protein expressions were observed in Hep-2 cells. Thus, [6]-shogaol induces apoptosis in Hep-2 cells through inducing oxidative damage and modulate apoptotic marker expressions. Therefore, [6]-shogaol might be used as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of laryngeal cancer.

[6]-Shogaol, a Novel Chemopreventor in 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced Hamster Buccal Pouch Carcinogenesis

Oral cancer is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in developing countries. Despite advances in chemotherapy for the cancer management, the survival rate has not yet been improved. Dietary nutrient has been receiving a lot of attention and interest in the chemotherapeutic development. [6]-Shogaol is a major bioactive compound identified in ginger that possesses many pharmacological properties. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effect of [6]-shogaol on 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene-induced hamster buccal pouch (HBP) carcinogenesis. Oral squamous cell carcinoma induced in HBP by painting with 0.5% 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA), thrice in a week for 16 weeks. We observed 100% tumour incidence, decreased levels of lipid peroxidation, antioxidant, and phase II detoxification enzymes (GST, GR and GSH) in DMBA-induced hamsters. Further, enhanced activity of phase I enzymes (cytochrome p450 and b5) and over-expression of mutant p53, Bcl-2 and decreased expression of wild type p53 and Bax were noticed in DMBA-induced hamsters. Our results indicated that [6]-shogaol (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg body weight) treated with DMBA-painted hamsters, considerably reversed tumour incidence, improved antioxidant status, phase II detoxification enzymes, and also inhibit lipid peroxidation and phase I enzymes. Moreover, [6]-shogaol inhibits mutant p53 and Bcl-2 expression and significantly restored normal p53, Bax levels. Thus, we concluded that [6]-shogaol prevents DMBA-induced HBP carcinogenesis through its antioxidant as well as modulating apoptotic signals.

Genetic risk, coronary heart disease events, and the clinical benefit of statin therapy: an analysis of primary and secondary prevention trials

BACKGROUND

Genetic variants have been associated with the risk of coronary heart disease. In this study, we tested whether or not a composite of these variants could ascertain the risk of both incident and recurrent coronary heart disease events and identify those individuals who derive greater clinical benefit from statin therapy.

METHODS

A community-based cohort study (the Malmo Diet and Cancer Study) and four randomised controlled trials of both primary prevention (JUPITER and ASCOT) and secondary prevention (CARE and PROVE IT-TIMI 22) with statin therapy, comprising a total of 48,421 individuals and 3477 events, were included in these analyses. We studied the association of a genetic risk score based on 27 genetic variants with incident or recurrent coronary heart disease, adjusting for traditional clinical risk factors. We then investigated the relative and absolute risk reductions in coronary heart disease events with statin therapy stratified by genetic risk. We combined data from the different studies using a meta-analysis.

FINDINGS

When individuals were divided into low (quintile 1), intermediate (quintiles 2-4), and high (quintile 5) genetic risk categories, a significant gradient in risk for incident or recurrent coronary heart disease was shown. Compared with the low genetic risk category, the multivariable-adjusted hazard ratio for coronary heart disease for the intermediate genetic risk category was 1·34 (95% CI 1·22-1·47, p<0·0001) and that for the high genetic risk category was 1·72 (1·55-1·92, p<0·0001). In terms of the benefit of statin therapy in the four randomised trials, we noted a significant gradient (p=0·0277) of increasing relative risk reductions across the low (13%), intermediate (29%), and high (48%) genetic risk categories. Similarly, we noted greater absolute risk reductions in those individuals in higher genetic risk categories (p=0·0101), resulting in a roughly threefold decrease in the number needed to treat to prevent one coronary heart disease event in the primary prevention trials. Specifically, in the primary prevention trials, the number needed to treat to prevent one such event in 10 years was 66 in people at low genetic risk, 42 in those at intermediate genetic risk, and 25 in those at high genetic risk in JUPITER, and 57, 47, and 20, respectively, in ASCOT.

INTERPRETATION

A genetic risk score identified individuals at increased risk for both incident and recurrent coronary heart disease events. People with the highest burden of genetic risk derived the largest relative and absolute clinical benefit from statin therapy.

FUNDING

National Institutes of Health.

Protective effects of [6]-paradol on histological lesions and immunohistochemical gene expression in DMBA induced hamster buccal pouch carcinogenesis

BACKGROUND

The search for naturally occurring agents in routinely consumed foods that may inhibit cancer development is of high priority. [6]-Paradol is a pungent phenolic bioactive component from ginger with well- documented health promoting antioxidant, antimutagenic, antigenotoxic and anti-inflammatory properties. However, anticarcinogenic effects have yet to be fully explored. The objectives of the present study were therefore to assess protective effects against 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) induced buccal pouch carcinogenesis in male golden Syrian hamsters.

METHODS

Oral squamous cell carcinomas developed in the left buccal pouch of hamsters on painting with 0.5% of DMBA, three times in a week. To assess the apoptotic associated gene expressing potential of [6]-paradol, it was orally administered to DMBA treated hamsters on alternate days from DMBA painting for 14 weeks.

RESULTS

We observed 100% tumor formation with marked levels of neoplastic changes and altered the expression of apoptotic associated gene (p53, bcl-2, caspase-3 and TNF-α) was observed in the DMBA alone painted hamsters as compared to control hamsters. Oral administration of [6]-paradol at a dose of 30 mg/kg b.wt to DMBA treated animals on alternative days for 14 weeks significantly reduced the neoplastic changes and improved the status of apoptosis associated gene expression.

CONCLUSION

These observations confirmed that [6]-paradol acts as a tumor suppressing agent against DMBA induced oral carcinogenesis. We also conclude that [6]-paradol also effectively enhances apoptosis- associated gene expression in DMBA treated animals.

Effect of different cooking methods on proximate and mineral composition of striped snakehead fish (Channa striatus, Bloch)

The effects of different cooking methods (boiling, baking, frying and grilling) on proximate and mineral composition of snakehead fish were investigated. The mean content of moisture, protein, fat and ash of raw fish was found to be 77.2 ± 2.39, 13.9 ± 2.89, 5.9 ± 0.45 and 0.77 ± 0.12% respectively. The changes in the amount of protein and fat were found to be significantly higher in frying and grilling fish. The ash content increased significantly whereas that of the minerals (Na, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn and Mn) was not affected in all cooking methods. Increased in Cu contents and decreased in P contents were observed in all cooking methods except grilling. In the present study, the grilling method of cooking is found to be the best for healthy eating.

Dual inhibitory effect of Glycyrrhiza glabra (GutGard™) on COX and LOX products

Glycyrrhiza glabra and its phytoconstituents have been known to possess widespread pharmacological properties as an anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, antitumour and hepatoprotective drug. In this study, we examined the inhibitory potential of extract of G. glabra (GutGard™) root and its phytoconstituents (glabridin, glycyrrhizin, and isoliquiritigenin) on both cyclooxygenase (COX) and lipoxygenase (LOX) products in order to understand the mechanism of its anti-inflammatory action. Inhibitory effect of GutGard™ and its phytoconstituents on lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), calcimycin (A23187) induced thromboxane (TXB(2)), and leukotriene (LTB(4)) release was studied using murine macrophages (J774A.1) and human neutrophil (HL-60) cells. Results revealed that, G. glabra and glabridin significantly inhibited PGE(2), TXB(2) (COX) and LTB(4) (LOX), while, isoliquiritigenin exerted inhibitory effect only against COX products but failed to suppress LOX product. However, glycyrrhizin at the tested concentrations failed to exhibit inhibitory effect on both COX and LOX products. Here, we report for the first time that G. glabra (almost devoid of glycyrrhizin) exhibits anti-inflammatory property likely through the inhibition of PGE(2), TXB(2) and LTB(4) in mammalian cell assay system, which could be influenced in part by glabridin and isoliquiritigenin.

Mosquitocidal activity of a native Bacillus thuringiensis isolate Bt ReX02 from Gunung Jerai Forest, Malaysia against Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes albopictus

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the mosquito larvicidal potential of the native Bacillus thuringiensis isolate BtReXO2, which was isolated from a tropical rain forest ecosystem in Malaysia. This study also aimed at determining the phenotypic and biochemical characteristics of the isolate.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The phenotypic characterization was carried out by growing the isolate in nutrient broth to observe the colonial morphology, vegetative cells, sporulation, motility and haemolytic activity. The parasporal crystal morphology was determined by Coomassie Brilliant Blue (CBB) staining of the sporulated cells and then observed under light microscope. The mosquito larvicidal assay was conducted with the second instar larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes albopictus to determine the entomocidal potency of the isolate. The total protein profile was determined by SDS-PAGE.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Preliminary phenotypic and biochemical characterization showed that the isolate is motile, an indirect indication of the virulence of the strain and exhibited hemolytic activity, an important feature of antidipteran Bacillus thuringiensis strains. Study on the crystal morphology showed the presence of cuboidal crystals, another characteristic feature of a mosquitocidal Bacillus thuringiensis strains. Bioassay with the second instar larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes albopictus established the antidipteran activity of this native Bacillus thuringiensis isolate. Protein profile analysis revealed the unique pattern showing high molecular mass as well as low molecular mass proteins corresponding to the Cry and Cyt proteins respectively. The protein profile is strikingly different from other mosquitocidal strains such as Bacillus thuringiensis subsp.israelensis and Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. jegathesan Periodical introduction of such native strains of Bacillus thuringiensis will add a new weapon in the armoury to manage the vector borne diseases and also in the management of insect resistance.

The association of factor V Leiden with myocardial infarction is replicated in 1880 patients with premature disease

AIMS

Gain-of-function variants of genes encoding coagulation factor V (F5 G1691A) and prothrombin (F2 G20210A) cause hypercoagulability and are established risk factors for venous thrombosis. A meta-analysis of 66,155 cases and 91,307 controls found that either polymorphism is associated with a moderately increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). Because genetic factors play a particularly important role when acute myocardial infarction (AMI) occurs in the young, we chose to replicate these results by investigating, in the frame of a case-control study, a large cohort of Italian patients who had AMI before the age of 45years.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In 1880 patients with AMI (1680 men and 210 women) and an equal number of controls, the minor A allele of F5 G1691A (2.6% frequency in cases and 1.7% in controls) was associated with an increased risk of AMI, the association remaining significant after adjustment for traditional risk factors (OR, 1.66; 95% CI, 1.15-2.38; P=0.006). The positive association with AMI for the minor A allele of F2 G20210A (2.5% frequency in cases and 1.9% in controls) did not reach statistical significance (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 0.96-1.80; P=0.159).

CONCLUSIONS

In a large cohort of young AMI patients the gain-of-function variant F5 G1691A was associated with an increased risk of AMI. The findings on the variant F2 G20210A confirmed the previously reported results, but the association was statistically not significant. These data suggest that a number of young patients with AMI carry gene variants associated with a procoagulant phenotype.

Association of common DNA sequence variants at 33 genetic loci with blood lipids in individuals of African ancestry from Jamaica

The relevance of loci associated with blood lipids recently identified in European populations in individuals of African ancestry is unknown. We tested association between lipid traits and 36 previously described single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 1,466 individuals of African ancestry from Spanish Town, Jamaica. For the same allele and effect direction as observed in individuals of European ancestry, SNPs at three loci (1p13, 2p21, and 19p13) showed statistically significant association (p < 0.05) with LDL, two loci (11q12 and 20q13) showed association with HDL cholesterol, and two loci (11q12 and 2p24) showed association with triglycerides. The most significant association was between a SNP at 1p13 and LDL cholesterol (p = 4.6 × 10(-8)). This SNP is in a linkage disequilibrium region containing four genes (CELSR2, PSRC1, MYBPHL, and SORT1) and was recently shown to relate to risk for myocardial infarction. Overall, the results of this study suggest that much of the genetic variation which influences blood lipids is shared across ethnic groups.

AGROBACTERIUM-MEDIATED TRANSFORMATION IN THE GREEN ALGA HAEMATOCOCCUS PLUVIALIS (CHLOROPHYCEAE, VOLVOCALES)(1)

The first successful Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of the green alga Haematococcus pluvialis Flot. using the binary vectors hosting the genes coding for GUS (β-glucuronidase), GFP (green fluorescent protein), and hpt (hygromycin phosphotransferase) is reported here. Colonies resistant to hygromycin at 10 mg · L(-1) expressed β-glucuronidase. The greenish yellow fluorescence of GFP was observed when the hygromycin-resistant cells were viewed with a fluorescent microscope. PCR was used to successfully amplify fragments of the hpt (407 bp) and GUS (515 bp) genes from transformed cells, while Southern blots indicated the integration of the hygromycin gene into the genome of H. pluvialis. SEM indicated that the cell wall of H. pluvialis was altered on infection with Agrobacterium. The transformation achieved here by Agrobacterium does not need treatment with acetosyringone or the wounding of cells. A robust transformation method for this alga would pave the way for manipulation of many important pathways relevant to the food, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical industries.

Polymorphisms in the endothelial nitric oxide synthase gene and bone density/ultrasound and geometry in humans

Nitric oxide (NO), produced by endothelial cells, is a signaling molecule synthesized from l-arginine by nitric oxide synthases (NOS). NO is known to reduce the ratio of receptor activator of nuclear factor KappaB (RANKL)/osteoprotegerin (OPG), leading to decreased osteoclastogenesis and a reduction in bone resorption. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS or NOS3) is the predominant constitutive isoform of nitric NOS within bone. Recently, a NOS3 polymorphism, Glu298Asp, previously implicated in osteoporosis, failed to demonstrate an association with bone mineral density (BMD), although there was some indication of an association with selected geometry indices. Since a single polymorphism does not capture all of the potential variants in a given gene, we investigated a broader coverage of the NOS3 gene with bone density/ultrasound and geometry indices in a sample of unrelated individuals from the Framingham Offspring Study. Our results indicated that the Glu298Asp polymorphism was not associated with BMD but suggested some haplotype-based associations in the linkage disequilibrium (LD) region that included the Glu298Asp polymorphism with several geometry indices. Although our findings exhibited several associations with selected bone density/ultrasound and geometry indices, the nominally significant associations are regarded as primarily hypothesis generating and suggest that replication in other samples is needed. Thus, NOS3 genetic variation does not appear to be a major contributor to adult bone density/ultrasound and geometry in our sample.

Inflammatory biomarkers are associated with total brain volume: the Framingham Heart Study

BACKGROUND

Systemic inflammation is associated with ischemia and Alzheimer disease (AD). We hypothesized that inflammatory biomarkers would be associated with neuroimaging markers of ischemia (i.e., white matter hyperintensities [WMH]) and AD (i.e., total brain volume [TCB]).

METHODS

MRI WMH and TCB were quantified on 1,926 Framingham Offspring participants free from clinical stroke, TIA, or dementia (mean age 60 +/- 9 years; range 35 to 85 years; 54% women) who underwent measurement of a circulating inflammatory marker panel, including CD40 ligand, C-reactive protein, interleukin-6 (IL-6), soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, myeloperoxidase, osteoprotegerin (OPG), P-selectin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFalpha), and tumor necrosis factor receptor II. To account for head size, both TCB (TCBV) and WMH (WMH/TCV) were divided by total cranial volume. We used multivariable linear regression to relate 10 log-transformed inflammatory biomarkers to brain MRI measures.

RESULTS

In multivariable models, inflammatory markers as a group were associated with TCBV (p < 0.0001) but not WMH/TCV (p = 0.28). In stepwise models adjusted for clinical covariates with backwards elimination of markers, IL-6 and OPG were inversely associated with TCBV; TNFalpha was inversely related to TCBV in a subset of 1,430 participants. Findings were similar in analyses excluding individuals with prevalent cardiovascular disease. The relations between TCBV and inflammatory markers were modified by both sex and age, and generally were more pronounced in men and in older individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Although our observational cross-sectional data cannot establish causality, they are consistent with the hypothesis that higher inflammatory markers are associated with greater atrophy than expected for age.

Culture media optimization for growth and phycoerythrin production from Porphyridium purpureum

Porphyridium spp. is a red micro alga and is gaining importance as a source of valuable products viz., phycobiliproteins (PB), sulfated exopolysaccharides, and polyunsaturated fatty acids with potential applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. In the present study, the effects of the major media constituents of Porphyridium species were studied using response surface methodology (RSM) on biomass yield, total PB and the production of phycoerythrin (PE). A second order polynomial can be used to predict the PB and PE production in terms of the independent variables. The independent variables such as the concentrations of sodium chloride, magnesium sulfate, sodium nitrate, and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate influenced the total PB and PE production. The optimum conditions showed that total PB was 4.8% at the concentration of sodium chloride 26.1 g/L, magnesium sulfate 5.23 g/L, sodium nitrate 1.56 g/L, and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate 0.034 g/L. In case of optimum PE production (3.3%), the corresponding values are 29.62, 6.11, 1.59, and 0.076 g/L, respectively. PE production depends greatly on the concentrations of chloride, nitrate, and sulfate as well as phosphate of which the former possess the maximum effect.

hREC2, a RAD51-like gene, is disrupted by t(12;14) (q15;q24.1) in a uterine leiomyoma

A balanced translocation between chromosomes 12 and 14 is commonly seen in uterine leiomyoma (UL). We have previously cloned and characterized a 2 Mb segment of human chromosomal subband 14q24.1, and have shown that the t(12;14)(q15;q24.1) breakpoints from several ULs map within this region. Exon trapping of DNA clones spanning one such breakpoint revealed coding sequences from hREC2, a gene that shows significant amino acid sequence identity to the double-strand break repair enzyme RAD51. We report here that this breakpoint is located within a 19 kb intron of the hREC2 gene and that the translocation results in the premature truncation of the major hREC2 transcript. Mapping and sequence analyses show that alternative transcripts of the hREC2 gene, including novel isoforms identified in testis and uterus, are not interrupted by the translocation.

Frequency of silent myocardial ischemia following coronary stenting

To detect silent myocardial ischemia, 12-lead continuous electrocardiographic monitoring was performed in patients undergoing 1-vessel coronary stenting. Despite successful angiographic results, one third of the patients experienced silent myocardial ischemia during the postprocedural period.

Meningioma surgery in the elderly: a case-control study assessing morbidity and mortality

GOAL

To assess the morbidity and mortality of meningioma surgery in patients over age 65 and compare our results with matched controls and with the present literature on meningioma surgery in the elderly.

METHODS

An evaluation of 114 patients undergoing meningioma resection divided into two groups: 57 patients aged 65-87, and a control group of 57 patients aged 25-64 matched by ASA status and tumor site. Operative complications, 30-day mortality, and pre- and postoperative neurologic status were assessed with follow up one to three months.

RESULTS

Complication rates in the two groups were similar and were low. Four out of fifty-seven elderly patients (7.0%) had a surgical complication compared with five younger patients (8.8%) Excluding asymptomatic DVT detected by screening, three elderly patients had medical complications (5.2%) compared with two controls (3.5%). The vast majority of patients-93% of the elderly group and 89.4% in the controls--experienced either improvement or no change in neurologic status at followup one to three months after surgery. There was one death among elderly patients within thirty days for a mortality rate of 1.8% compared with no mortality in the case control group. The elderly patient who died was an 80-year old man who died of pneumonia in a rehabilitation hospital three weeks after surgery. Our study group of 57 patients was compared by tumor site and preoperative general health status to other series in the literature. In a review from the literature of 417 patients over age 65 who underwent meningioma surgery, the average 30-day mortality was 16%. The complication rate averaged 39%.

DISCUSSION

Our lower morbidity and mortality rates after meningioma surgery in the elderly may be a result of patient selection, surgical technique, or excellent pre- and post-operative care by the resident staff, anesthesiologists, and nurses. It suggests, however, that elderly patients can have meningioma surgery safely.

Surface expression of a T cell receptor beta (TCR-beta) chain in the absence of TCR-alpha, -delta, and -gamma proteins

The antigen receptor expressed by mature T cells has been described as a disulfide-linked alpha/beta or gamma/delta heterodimer noncovalently associated with CD3, a complex of transmembrane proteins that communicates signals from the T cell receptor (TCR) to the cell interior. Studies suggest that all component chains must assemble intracellularly before surface expression can be achieved. We described, however, a CD4+/CD8+ transformed murine thymocyte, KKF, that expresses surface TCR-beta chains in the absence of gamma, delta, and alpha proteins; these beta chains are only weakly associated with CD3-epsilon and CD3-zeta. Furthermore, KKF responds differently to stimulation through TCR-beta and CD3-epsilon, a functional dissociation that has been ascribed to a CD4+/CD8+ subpopulation of normal thymocytes. KKF's unique TCR structure may offer an explanation for the functional anomalies observed.