HspBP1 in Complex with the Peptide of the Innate Immunity Protein Tag7 is Able to Lyse Tumor Cells Carrying TNFR1 Receptor

The search for new cytotoxic agents capable of lysing tumor cells is an important task in the fight against cancer. Here we have shown that the HspBP1 protein, the chaperone of the heat shock protein Hsp70, is able to form a complex with the previously discovered peptide (17.1) of the innate immunity protein Tag7. Experiments using thermophoresis demonstrated that the affinity of the Tag7 protein peptide 17.1 to the HspBP1 molecule is 100 times higher than that of the full-sized Tag7 molecule. The addition of the 17.1-HspBP1 complex to tumor cells induces apoptosis and necroptosis in them. The results obtained in this work can be used to develop promising antitumor drugs.

Quantitative Description of the N-Protein of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus Degradation in Cells Stably Expressing It under the Influence of New Modular Nanotransporters

Two eukaryotic cell lines, A549 and A431, with stable expression of the nucleocapsid protein (N-protein) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus fused with the red fluorescent protein mRuby3 were obtained. Using microscopy, the volumes of the cytoplasm and nucleus were determined for these cells. Using quantitative immunoblotting techniques, the concentrations of the N-mRuby3 fusion protein in their cytoplasm were assessed. They were 19 and 9 μM for A549 and A431 cells, respectively. Using these concentrations, the initial rate of N-protein degradation in the studied cells was estimated from the decrease in cell fluorescence. In A549 and A431 cells, it was the same (84 nM per hour). The approach of quantitatively describing the degradation process can be applied to analyze the effectiveness of a wide class of antiviral drugs that cause degradation of viral proteins.

Modular Nanotransporters Capable of Causing Intracellular Degradation of the N-Protein of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus in A549 Cells with Temporary Expression of This Protein Fused with a Fluorescent Protein mRuby3

Modular nanotransporters (MNTs) containing an antibody-like molecule, monobody, to the N‑protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, as well as an amino acid sequence that recruits the Keap1 E3 ligase (E3BP) were created. This MNT also included a site for cleavage of the E3BP monobody from the MNT in acidic endocytic compartments. It was shown that this cleavage by the endosomal protease cathepsin B leads to a 2.7-fold increase in the affinity of the E3BP monobody for the N-protein. Using A549 cells with transient expression of the N-protein fused with the fluorescent protein mRuby3, it was shown that incubation with MNT leads to a significant decrease in mRuby3 fluorescence. It is assumed that the developed MNTs can serve as a basis for the creation of new antiviral drugs against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Modular Nanotransporters Capable of Binding to SARS-CoV-2 Virus Nucleocapsid Protein in Target Cells

On the basis of literature data, an antibody-like molecule, monobody, was selected that is capable of interacting with the nucleocapsid protein (N protein) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus with a high affinity (dissociation constant 6.7 nM). We have previously developed modular nanotransporters (MNTs) to deliver various molecules to a selected compartment of target cells. In this work, a monobody to the N protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was inserted in the MNT using genetic engineering methods. In this MNT, a site for the cleavage of the monobody from the MNT in endosomes was also inserted. It was shown by thermophoresis that the cleavage of this monobody from the MNT by the endosomal protease cathepsin B leads to a 12-fold increase in the affinity of the monobody for the N protein. Cellular thermal shift assay showed the ability of the obtained MNT to interact with the N protein in A431 cells transfected with the SARS-CoV-2 N protein fused to the mRuby3 fluorescent protein.

Intracellular Delivery of an Antibody-Like Molecule Capable of Inhibiting c-Myc

A modular nanotransporter (MNT) carrying the sequence of an antibody-like molecule, anti-c-Myc nanobody, was synthesized and characterized. It was demonstrated that the created MNT is able to interact with the target protein, c-Myc oncogene, with a dissociation constant of 46 ± 14 nM, internalize into target cells, change Myc-dependent expression, and exert an antiproliferative effect.

Selection of an Amino Acid Site with One of the Fastest Cleavage Kinetics by the Endosomal Protease Cathepsin B for Potential Use in Drug Delivery Systems

On the basis of known published data, six peptide sequences were selected that are potentially capable of being rapidly cleaved by the endosomal protease cathepsin B. For comparison, the cleavage of common linker sequences, polyglycine and polyglycine-serine, by cathepsin B was also studied. Different ends of these peptides were labeled with sulfoCyanine3 and sulfoCyanine5 fluorescent dyes, between which Förster resonant energy transfer (FRET) is possible. The kinetics of cleavage of peptides by cathepsin B was studied on a multimodal plate reader by FRET signal reduction. FKFL and FRRG cleavage sites have been shown to be the most suitable for potential use in various drug delivery systems. These sites are much more efficiently cleaved under slightly acidic conditions of endosomes than at neutral extracellular pH.

Variant origin of three main coronary ostia from the right sinus of Valsalva: report of a rare case

Observing anomalies in the origin of the coronary arteries is a rare but recognised scenario during coronarography. All the major coronary arteries originating from the right sinus of Valsalva is an extremely rare anomaly, its reported incidence being 0.008% in angiographic studies. Most coronary artery variations are benign and are therefore found accidentally or postmortem. However, some anomalies in the origin of the coronary arteries are associated with myocardial ischaemia and a higher risk of sudden cardiac death. Herein, we report a sporadic case of anomalous origin of the coronary arteries, in which the right coronary artery, anterior interventricular artery and left circumflex artery arise separately from the right sinus of Valsalva, each originating from a separate ostium. Regardless of their low incidence rate, coronary artery anomalies can cause serious technical challenges during coronary angiography and percutaneous interventions because of the unusual location and course of the artery. Echocardiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging can be useful in such cases.

A unique variation of a four-bellied digastric muscle named "real quadrigastric muscle": a case report and literature review

From a topographical standpoint, the digastric muscle is key to the formation of several triangles of the neck, which are of the utmost clinical significance. Herein, we present a previously unrecognised variation of the digastric muscle: a quadrigastric muscle with two accessory bellies originating from the body and angle of the mandible and inserting to the intermediate tendon. Three new triangles are demarcated between the four bellies of the aberrant muscle. Detailed knowledge of variations of the digastric muscle, changing the borders and relationships of the topographic triangles, is paramount for radiologists and surgeons operating on the anterior region of the neck.

Among Antibody-Like Molecules, Monobodies, Able to Interact with Nucleocapsid Protein of SARS-CoV Virus, There Are Monobodies with High Affinity to Nucleocapsid Protein of SARS-CoV-2 Virus

Seven amino acid sequences of antibody mimetics molecules, monobodies, capable of interacting with the nucleocapsid protein of the SARS-CoV virus, were taken from the literature. Nucleotide sequences of monobody genes were obtained by gene synthesis, which were expressed in E. coli and isolated using Ni-NTA chromatography. It was shown by thermophoresis that three of the seven selected antibody-like molecules can interact with high affinity (dissociation constant of tens of nM) with the nucleocapsid protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. For the remaining four monobodies, only low affinity binding with a dissociation constant of several μM was found.

Previously unreported variant of the rectus femoris muscle

Although uncommon, variant muscular variations can occur related to the quadriceps femoris. Such variations might be encountered in the clinical setting so these should be documented. Here, we report three additional heads related to the rectus femoris muscle identified during routine dissection of the right thigh. To our knowledge, such a variation has not been previously reported.

Unusual sensory innervation of the dorsal hand and why we should bear this variation in mind

Detailed knowledge of the anatomy and different variations of the superficial branch of the radial nerve could be of great importance not only to anatomists but also to clinicians. A predominant radial nerve supply to the dorsum of the hand is rare. Herein, we present an unusual case of unilateral sensory innervation of the dorsal hand found during routine anatomical dissection of a 72-year-old at death male Caucasian cadaver. We also present a brief discussion of the reported variation and emphasize its potential clinical implications.

Assessment of the incidence of accessory hepatic arteries: literature review

Modern medicine is developing towards application of endovascular techniques such as trans-arterial hepatic chemoembolization. They displace classic open procedures. However, their correct planning and performance depend on the knowledge pre-operative detection of hepatic arterial anatomical variations. The main abnormality that may generate complications during radiological and surgical procedures is occurrence of an accessory hepatic artery. In the present study we propose our own classification of the variability observed in the vessels based on cases reported in the literature. It analyzes more types of variations as compared to previous trials. A great advantage of this study is also a description of different pathological and frequently life-threatening conditions associated with hepatic arteries. This study is of value to medical practitioners, e.g. surgeons.

Simultaneous duplication of the tendon of plantaris with multiple tendinous connections into the crural fascia

The plantaris muscle (PM) typically begins with a short, fusiform muscle belly and continues as a slim tendon traversing distally between the gastrocnemius and soleus to attach into the calcaneus directly or Achilles tendon. Conventionally, it has been of most interest as a donor for surgeons plantaris tendon (PT) grafting and recent studies have implicated the PT in the development of Achilles tendinopathy. During routine cadaveric dissection, one such anatomical variation was identified in a cadaver with two distal tendons of the PM and also multiple tendon connections into the crural fascia. While similar variants have been reported before in isolation, to our knowledge, this has been rarely reported illustrating the coexistence of a duplicated PT with simultaneous fascial connections into the crural fascia. The clinical implications of such a finding are discussed.

New Recombinant Carriers Binding Specifically to the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor

New recombinant carriers-modular nanotransporters (MNTs)-with N-terminal ligand module to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were developed and characterized. Human epidermal growth factor (hEGF) and antibody-like protein Z₁₉₀₇ were used as a ligand module. We demonstrated that MNTs are able to internalize in a receptor-specific manner into the target cancer cells and to accumulate in the target cell nuclei. Conjugation of MNTs with the Auger electron emitter ¹¹¹In significantly enhanced the cytotoxic effect of ¹¹¹In on the target cells. It was found that the transfer of EGF from the C-terminus to the N-terminus of the MNT enhanced the proliferation of target cells, whereas the use of Z₁₉₀₇ did not have a similar effect.

Stabilization of Modular Nanotransporters by Embedding Hemin in Them in a New Strain with Heme Receptor Expression

It was found that the use of a new strain-producer Escherichia coli, expressing the heme receptor ChuA, enables obtaining a hemin-containing modular nanotransporter (MNT) for drug delivery into the nuclei of target cells. The hemin-containing MNT becomes stabilized, which leads to an increase in its thermal stability and prevents aggregation of this protein.

An Open-Label Study of the Safety and Efficacy of Tag-7 Gene-Modified Tumor Cells-Based Vaccine in Patients with Locally Advanced or Metastatic Malignant Melanoma or Renal Cell Cancer

LESSONS LEARNED

This study showed that carefully selected patients with locally advanced and metastatic forms of malignant melanoma and renal cell carcinoma could potentially have long-term disease control with a tag-7 gene-modified tumor cells-based vaccine. Randomized clinical trials in patients whose tumors produce low amounts of immunosuppressive factors are needed to confirm this hypothesis in both the adjuvant and metastatic settings.

BACKGROUND

Immunotherapy may produce long-lasting effects on survival and toxicity. The magnitude of efficacy may be dependent on immune factors. We analyzed the results of a phase I/II study of a tag-7 gene-modified tumor cells-based vaccine (GMV) in patients with malignant melanoma (MM) or renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with biomarker analysis of immunosuppressive factors (ISFs) production by their tumor cells.

METHODS

From 2001 to 2014, 80 patients received GMV: 68 with MM and 12 with RCC. Treatment in the metastatic setting included 61 patients (MM, 51; RCC, 10), and treatment in the adjuvant setting (after complete cytoreduction) included 19 patients (MM, 17; RCC, 2). Twenty-six patients were stage III (33%), and 54 (67%) were stage IV. The patients' tumor samples were transferred to culture, transfected with tag-7 gene, and inactivated by radiation. The produced product was injected subcutaneously every 3 weeks until progression or 2 years of therapy. ISFs were measured in the supernatants of the tumor cell cultures and used as predictive factors.

RESULTS

No major safety issues or grade 5 adverse events (AEs) were seen. One grade 4 and two grade 3 AEs were registered. No AEs were registered in 89.4% of treatment cycles. No delayed AE was found. The 5-year overall survival (OS) in the intention-to-treat population was 25.1%. There were no differences between MM OS and RCC OS (log rank, p = .44). Median OS in the metastatic setting was 0.7 years and in the adjuvant setting was 3.1 years. Classification trees were built on the basis of ISF production (Fig. 1). The median OS was 6.6 years in the favorable prognosis (FP) group (major histocompatibility complex class I polypeptide-related sequence A [MICA] level ≤582 pg/mL, n = 15) and 4.6 months in the unfavorable (UF) group (MICA level >582 pg/mL, n = 12; p < .0001). No significant differences were found between classification trees based on ISFs (transforming growth factor β1 [TGF-β1], interleukin-10 [IL-10], and vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF]). In patients with stage III-IV MM with FP, median OS was 2.3 years, with 31% patients alive at 10 years (Fig. 2) in the UF group (0.4 years; log rank, p = 1.94E-5). No FP patients received modern immunotherapy.

CONCLUSION

GMV showed high results in carefully selected patients with low ISF (TGF-β1, IL-10, and VEGF) production. The method should be further investigated in patients with FP.

Long-term survival in patients (pts) with locally advanced or disseminated malignant melanoma (MM) or renal cell carcinoma (RCC), treated with tag-7 gene-modified (GMV) tumor cells: A phase II trial

e14022

Background: Immunotherapy may produce long lasting effects on survival.Magnitude of efficacy may be depended from immune factors. We evaluated the overall survival (OS) in pts treated with GMV with biomarker analysis of immunosuppressive factors (ISF) production by their tumor cells. Methods: Since 2001 to 2014 80 pts received GMV: 68 with MM and 12 pts with RCC. Treatment was given in the metastatic setting in 61 pts (MM-51, RCC – 10) and in the adjuvant (after complete cytoreduction) setting in 19 pts (MM-17, RCC-2). Stage 3 was in 26 (33%) pts, stage 4 in 54 (67%). Pt’s tumor samples were transferred to culture, transfected with TAG7and inactivated by radiation. Produced product was injected SC every 3 weeks until progression or 2y of therapy. ISF (MICA, TGF-β1, IL-10 and VEGF) were measured in the supernatants of the tumor cell cultures and used as predictive factors. Results: The 5-yr OS in intention to treat population was 25.1%. There was no differences in MM and RCC OS (Log-rank p = 0.44). Median OS in metastatic setting was 0,7 y, in adjuvant – 3,1 y. Classification trees were built on the basis of ISF production. The median OS was 6.6 y in favorable prognosis (FP) group (MICA level ≤582 pg/ml, n = 15), 4.6 mo in unfavorable (UF) group (MICA level > 582 pg/ml, n = 12) (p < 0.0001). No significant differences were found between classification trees based on the other ISF (TGF-β1, IL-10 and VEGF). In stage 3-4 MM pts with FP median OS was 2,3 y with 31% pts alive in 10y, in UF group – 0,4 y; log-rank p = 1,94E-5. No FP pts received modern immunotherapy. Conclusions: GMV shows high results in carefully selected pts with low ISF production. Method should be further investigated in pts with FP. [Table: see text]

Oncogene c-MYC Controls the Expression of PHF10 Subunit of PBAF Chromatin Remodeling Complex in SW620 Cell Line

The PBAF(SWI/SNF) multiprotein complex, which changes the chromatin structure, is widely involved in the regulation of eukaryotic gene expression. A specific component of this complex is the PHF10 protein, which is involved in recruiting this complex to chromatin. We showed that the PHF10 expression in cells of different lines is activated by the c-MYC oncogene. Since PHF10 stimulates cell proliferation, its c-MYC-dependent activation in cancer cells should lead to an increase in their proliferation rate.

MNT Optimization for Intracellular Delivery of Antibody Fragments

We studied the possibility of optimizing modular nanotransporters (MNTs) for the intracellular delivery of antibody fragments into the nuclei of cells of a specified type. Basic MNT with a reduced size retaining the desired functions was obtained, and the principal possibility of obtaining an MNT carrying an antibody fragment by microbiological synthesis was shown.

[Interactions of the TREX-2 complex with mRNP particle of β-tubulin 56D gene]

mRNA transport from the nucleus to the cytoplasm is an essential step of eukaryotic gene expression. A pre-mRNA molecule undergoes modification, such as 5'-capping, splicing, and 3'-end processing, in the nucleus. The molecule being modified interacts with a large number of proteins and, thus, mRNP particles are formed. The binding of factors involved in nuclear export also occurs during transcription and mRNA processing. We have shown that the functioning of TREX-2, an mRNA export complex, is restricted to the nucleus. We used the method of RNA coprecipitation that enables the selective extraction of RNA-protein complexes from samples to show that the transcription elongation complex TREX interacts with mRNA of the β-tubulin 56D gene over the entire length of the molecule. The capping protein Cbp80 reacted both with the cap structure and with a specific part of the coding mRNA of the β-tubulin 56D gene. The TREX-2 complex that mediates mRNA export from the nucleus to the cytoplasm is bound to the same part of the coding sequence. Thus, we identified a common binding site for all of the complexes under investigation on the mRNA of β-tubulin 56D. Co-immunoprecipitation reactions performed with S2 cell extracts revealed interactions between the components of complexes involved in transcription elongation, maturation, and export of mRNA. The model of molecular folding for the mRNP particle involving the mRNA of β-tubulin 56D has been proposed.

A new role for PGRP-S (Tag7) in immune defense: lymphocyte migration is induced by a chemoattractant complex of Tag7 with Mts1

PGRP-S (Tag7) is an innate immunity protein involved in the antimicrobial defense systems, both in insects and in mammals. We have previously shown that Tag7 specifically interacts with several proteins, including Hsp70 and the calcium binding protein S100A4 (Mts1), providing a number of novel cellular functions. Here we show that Tag7-Mts1 complex causes chemotactic migration of lymphocytes, with NK cells being a preferred target. Cells of either innate immunity (neutrophils and monocytes) or acquired immunity (CD4(+) and CD8(+) lymphocytes) can produce this complex, which confirms the close connection between components of the 2 branches of immune response.

Ultrasound diagnosis of a ganglion cyst within an extensor digitorum brevis manus muscle

A unique case of a ganglion cyst within the extensor digitorum brevis manus muscle diagnosed by ultrasound in an 18-year-old girl is presented. Different anatomical variations and the clinical importance of this accessory muscle are also discussed.

Single-domain antibody-based ligands for immunoaffinity separation of recombinant human lactoferrin from the goat lactoferrin of transgenic goat milk

Single-domain antibody generation technology was applied to make new Sepharose-bound ligands for affinity separation of closely related proteins, such as human and goat lactoferrin. We generated recombinant antibodies that can selectively bind/recognize only lactoferrins having amino acid sequences identical to that of human natural lactoferrin (anti-hLF Ab). Selected and purified histidine-tagged single-domain antibodies were used as ligands, and different lactoferrins were used as analytes in the kinetics analysis of lactoferrin binding to captured anti-hLF Abs using the Bio-Rad ProteOn XPR36 protein interaction array system. The data obtained were consistent with a 1:1 binding model with very high affinity, practically equal in the case of hLF and rec-hLF (calculated KD varied from 0.43nM to 3.7nM). Interaction of captured fsdAbs with goat LF was significantly weaker and not detectable under the same analysis conditions. We demonstrated the high efficiency of the recombinant human lactoferrin purification from goat lactoferrin and other proteins using the obtained single domain antibody-based affinity ligands. We believe this approach can be used for the generation of single-domain antibody-based affinity media for the efficient separation/purification of a wide spectrum of other highly homologous proteins.

Long molecules of free DNA in the sheared chromatin preparation

Hydrodynamic shearing of chromatin in the presence of Mg(2+) ions produces two discrete types of particles: (1) molecules of completely free DNA which comprise 20-23% of the total DNA and (2) histone-covered DNA molecules which contain all five histone fractions. The average length of free DNA molecules depends on the intensity of shearing and can be as high as 1000 base pairs or more. Shearing of chromatin in the absence of Mg(2+) produces a heterogeneous population of DNP particles; no free DNA is liberated. However, the addition of Mg(2+) to this preparation results in appearance of free DNA molecules and in a complete restoration of the above 'bimodal' distribution.These findings support a previously proposed 'asymmetric hairpin' model of DNA packing in the chromatin [1-3].

Hybridization of mRNA and pre-mRNA with the sequences forming double-stranded structures in pre-mRNA

About 25% of the double-stranded sequences isolated from pre-mRNA are able to hybridize, after melting, with either mRNA or non-melted pre-mRNA. The retention of one branch of pre-mRNA hairpin in mRNA was suggested. It was also found that in addition to the hairpin-like structures comprising about 3% of the total sequences another 15% of the pre-mRNA sequences can form double-stranded structures upon annealing over a broad interval of Cot values.

[Functional properties of the WNT11 new isoform, expressed in colon carcinoma cell line HT29]

Colon carcinoma is a common type of neoplastic transformation. Mechanisms of its establishment and progression have been studying for several decades. Aberrant activation of the canonical Wnt signaling is frequently observed in colon carcinoma cells. Moreover, expression of the "noncanonical" Wnt ligands is also detected in this type of cancer. However, the implication of the noncanonical Wnt signaling in carcinogenesis and colorectal cancer (CRC) progression is still unclear. Here, to elucidate the characteristic features of the noncanonical Wnt signaling activation in CRC the expression of the "noncanonical" ligand hWnt11 has been studied. It was shown for the first time that expression of the hWnt11 in CRC is accompanied by the alternative splicing. The new hWnt11 isoform (hWnt11sp3) has been identified. Unlike to hWnt11, this isoform is not secreted and lacks the ability to inhibit the canonical Wnt signaling. Considering the canonical Wnt signaling inhibiting activity of hWnt11, different functional properties of the ligand and its isoform may reflect a special role of the alternative splicing in carcinogenesis and tumor progression. Thus, due to the difference in their functional properties an existence of several Wnt isoforms should be taken into account for the investigation of the role of Wnt ligands.

[Study of testicular cancer gene expression in samples of oral leukoplakia and squamous cell carcinoma of the mouth]

Cancer-testis (CT) antigens are normally expressed mostly in human germ cells, there is also an aberrant expression in some tumor cells. This expression profile makes them potential tumor growth biomarkers and a promising target for tumor immunotherapy. Specificity of CT genes expression in oral malignant and potentially malignant diseases, e.g. oral leukoplakia, is not yet studied. Data on CT genes expression profile in leukoplakia would allow developing new diagnostic methods with potential value for immunotherapy and prophylaxis of leukoplakia malignization. In our study we compared CT genes expression in normal oral mucosa, oral leukoplakia and oral squamous cell carcinoma. We are the first to describe CT genes expression in oral leukoplakia without dysplasia. This findings make impossible differential diagnosis of oral leukoplakia and squamous cell carcinoma on the basis of CT genes expression. The prognostic value of CT genes expression is still unclear, therefore the longitudinal studies are necessary.

[Wars of cells with the use of nanoweapons]

Some mechanisms of the antitumor action of the protein Tag7 have been considered, and three scenarios of the manifestation of cytotoxic effects during the formation of its complex with other proteins have been considered.

[Nuclear beta-catenin localization is not sufficient for canonical Wnt signaling activation in human meianoma cell lines]

In most cases, advanced stages of melanoma are practically incurable due to high metastatic potential of tumor cells. Multiple observations support the idea that aberrations in Wnt signaling pathway play a significant role in melanoma development and progression. Canonical Wnt signaling activation results in stabilization and accumulation of the major effector molecule called beta-catenin. Mutations promoting beta-catenin stabilization and, thereby, activation of canonical Wnt signaling pathway are frequently found in different cancers, but rarely observed in melanomas. Nevertheless, beta-catenin nuclear and cytoplasmic accumulation is the feature of many human melanoma cell lines and original tumors. That is why, the aim of the investigation was to elucidate the relation between beta-catenin intracellular localization and activity status of Wnt signaling pathway in human melanoma cell lines. Ten human melanoma cell lines were characterized on the basis of the following parameters: canonical Wnt ligand expression, intracellular beta-catenin localization, and activity status of canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Here, it has been demonstrated that nuclear localization of beta-catenin does not always correspond to active status canonical Wnt signaling pathway. Moreover, in the majority of cell lines with nuclear beta-catenin canonical Wnt signaling can't be activated by exogenous expression of an appropriate ligand. Human melanoma cell lines differ in activity of canonical Wnt signaling pathway as well as in mechanisms of its regulation. Therefore, the pathway-targeted potential antineoplastic therapy requires the formation of a "molecular pattern of cancer" for localization of the defect in Wnt signaling cascade in the each case.

Application of mRNA regulatory regions to improve tumor specificity of transgene expression

Efficiency and specificity are two key attributes of anti-cancer drugs including genetic therapeutic agents. We suggest a way to improve specificity of gene therapy drugs based on the ability of 3'-untranslated regions (UTR) of some mRNAs selectively stabilize transcripts only during cell division. The mRNAs of genes encoding DNA methyltransferase I (DNMT1) and topoisomerase IIα (TOP2A) are among such transcripts. When inserted into genetic constructs designed to produce therapeutic protein in tumor cells, such 3'-UTR would lead to diminished effect of therapeutic protein on normal cells, which are characterized by low or absent proliferative activity. However, when included in gene expression cassette, these 3'-UTR might result in decreased transgene expression, thus, overweighting the advantage of increased specificity of expression. We showed that DNMT1 and to the lesser extent TOP2A 3'-UTR do not alter significantly therapeutic transgene expression level in tumor cells, thus, confirming the functionality of the proposed approach.

Unusual coexistence of a variant abductor digiti minimi and reversed palmaris longus and their possible relation to median and ulnar nerves entrapment at the wrist

During routine anatomical dissection of the left upper limb of a 73-year-old female cadaver, a unique coexistence of variant muscles was found. In the forearm region, a largely developed reversed palmaris longus was discovered. Its short distal tendon was in close relation to the median nerve. In the neighboring hypothenar region, an unusual abductor digiti minimi was also observed. Its muscular body was composed of two portions - medial and lateral one, arising from the reversed palmaris longus tendon. The lateral portion passed over the ulnar nerve and artery in the canal of Guyon. In the literature, there are descriptions of entrapment neuropathies caused by either reversed palmaris longus or variant abductor digiti minimi. Here, for the first time we describe a coexistence of these variant muscles and suggest it as a possible, even rare, cause of both the median and ulnar nerves entrapment and ulnar artery thrombosis.

Unusual high-origin of the pronator teres muscle from a Struthers' ligament coexisting with a variation of the musculocutaneous nerve

During routine anatomical dissection of the right upper extremity of a 53-year-old woman cadaver, an unusual high-origin of the pronator teres muscle was discovered. The fibers of the aberrant muscle arose from two bone origins--the medial epicondyle and a small supracondylar process of the humerus, and from a tendinous arch (Struthers' ligament) extending between them. In addition, there was a variation of the musculocutaneous nerve--in the axilary fossa the musculocutaneous was fused to the median nerve and its usual branches arose consecutively from the median nerve stem. The last of these branches--the lateral antebrachial cutaneous arose in the lower part of the arm from the median nerve and companion to it and to the brachial artery passed under the Struthers' ligament. Our findings indicate that in some rare cases of combined muscular-nerve variations, the lateral antebrachial cutaneous nerve can be added to the neurovascular structures possibly entrapped by the Struthers' ligament.

[HLA-E molecule induction on the surface of tumor cells protects them from cytotoxic lymphocytes]

Modern immunotherapy has developed powerful tools for mounting antitumor response which nevertheless have had only limited success in clinic. Tumor cells use different mechanisms to escape from immune system. Thus, one of the reasons of unsuccessful immunotherapy might be induction of tolerance of tumor-specific cytotoxic lymphocytes by tumor cells. Previously we have demonstrated expression of HLA-E molecule by the cells of melanoma cell lines. In this paper we have studied HLA-E-dependent mechanism of melanoma cell escape from immune response.

[High-dose gamma-irradiation enhance expression of transgene under control of immediate-early CMV promoter in stably transfected tumor cells]

Gamma-irradiation is a usual method to inactivate whole-cellular anticancer vaccines consisting viable tumor cells. To evaluate the effect of gamma-irradiation to transgene expression in tumor cells we constructed several stably transfected clones of human and mouse cell lines expressing transgenic GM-CSF or GFP under control of IE-CMV promoter. Irradiation of those cells with different doses (ranged from 20 to 100 Gr) of gamma-radiation caused loss of proliferation capacity with survival of the cells population clearly depended on irradiation dose. Cell-cycle staining reveals accumulation of the cells with G2/M DNA content and almost loss of cells in S-phase. Substantial proportion of irradiated cells shows beta-galactosidase activity and morphological changes associated with cell senescence. An irradiated cell shows no changes in the level of mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity regardless irradiation dose exposed. Irradiated cells retain their ability to express transgene. Moreover, amount of the secreted GM-CSF as well as MFI in GFP-expressing cells significantly increases after gamma-irradiation up to 10 fold for cells exposed with 100 Gr. Enhancing of the transgene expression in both human and mouse cells positively correlates with total dose of gamma-irradiation gained by the cells and demonstrates gradual nature. Overall, our results supports using of 100 Gr of gamma-irradiation as the optimal dose for whole-cell anticancer vaccine inactivation.

[Functions of protein MTS1 (S100A4) in normal and tumor cells]

To date vast evidence has been accumulated showing the role of protein MTS1 in the metastasis development and cell motility regulation, both in norm and upon pathological change of various tissues. The structure of the protein and its gene, as well as the regulation of the gene expression, are studied in detail. Significant advances have been achieved in understanding molecular mechanisms involving MTS1. This paper reviews the current knowledge of the issue.

Axillary arch in human: common morphology and variety. Definition of "clinical" axillary arch and its classification

In this work the authors summarize the extensive information available concerning the best-known variant muscular structure in the region of the human axilla--the axillary arch. Emphasis has been placed on the common morphology and variety of the axillary arches. From the anatomical descriptions, the authors extract the characteristics of a group of "typical" axillary arches and also noted the descriptions of a group of "unusual" axillary arches found in the recent literature. The axillary arch terminology, incidence in human population, innervation and origin are discussed. The clinical significance of the axillary arch is presented briefly and the need of a new concept for the axillary arch is stated. In conclusion, for the purpose of clinical practice, a new term--"clinical" axillary arch is defined, and its proper clinically oriented classification is presented.

Undescribed variant muscle – “Deep abductor-flexor” of the little finger, in relation to ulnar nerve compression at the wrist

During routine anatomical dissection in the hypothenar region of the left hand of a 64-year-old female cadaver, a number of variant structures were observed. The most prominent finding in our case was a supernumerary muscle hitherto unknown in the anatomical literature. This variant muscle had a muscular body formed by the connection of two deeply situated muscular bellies--medial and lateral. The lateral belly originated from the flexor retinaculum, the medial one--from the hamate bone. The common muscular body inserted to the antero-lateral surface of the base of the fifth proximal phalanx. Due to its location and possible function, we named the variant muscle "deep abductor-flexor" of the little finger. The flexor digiti minimi brevis muscle showed two proximal tendons--the medial tendon was attached to the hamulus of the hamate bone while the aberrant lateral tendon originated from the lateral part of the flexor retinaculum. Both, the aberrant lateral tendon of the flexor digiti minimi brevis and the lateral belly of the "deep abductor-flexor", passed over the palmar branch of the ulnar nerve, which define their possible clinical significance in ulnar nerve compression. Therefore, the variations of the hypothenar muscles are reviewed and their relation to the compression of the ulnar nerve is discussed.

Axillary arch in Bulgarian population: clinical significance of the arches

In order to study the incidence of the axillary arch in the Bulgarian population, we examined the axillary regions of 56 formol-carbol fixed human cadavers and observed two cases with a unilateral axillary arch. In the first case, the variant structure was situated on the right side of a 58-year-old female cadaver. The axillary arch extended from the lateral border of the latissimus dorsi to the posterior layer of the pectoralis major tendon. In the second case, the axillary arch was found on the left side of a 63-year-old male cadaver and had the same attachment points as in the first case. The innervation and blood supply of the arches are discussed. We have also reviewed extensive information concerning the clinical importance of the axillary arch, and for the first time, it was summarized clearly for clinicians. The summary consists of three parts: "diagnosis" of the axillary arch by physical investigation or imaging techniques; the axillary arch and surgical interventions in the region of the axilla; the axillary arch as an entrapment site for the axillary vessels and nerves.

[Melanoma cell lines as the basis for antitumor vaccine preparation]

The aim of the study was to obtain cell lines from tumor samples, and to determine phenotypic cell characteristics in order to choose the optimal line for vaccine preparation. 15 cell lines with stable growth, varying in cultural growth character and cytomorphology, were obtained from samples taken from patients with metastatic skin melanoma. Immunofluorescense method was used to determine the expression of T- and B-lymphocyte markers, antigens of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I and II, and CD86 co-stimulating molecule in the cell lines. The expression of melanocyte differentiation antigens and cancer/testicular antigens was evaluated using immunocytochemical assay. The results allowed the authors to distinguish three types of melanoma cell lines according to the expression of MHC molecules: MHC-negative; MHC class I positive; MHC classes I and II positive.

Use of human VEGF(165) gene for therapeutic angiogenesis in coronary patients: first results

The paper presents the first results of therapeutic angiogenesis in clinical cardiosurgery: human VEGF(165) gene transplantation to coronary patients. The use of this therapeutic method is particularly effective in patients with inoperable cardiovascular injuries, i.e. patients with the most severe condition, in whom treatment remains little effective at the modern level of cardiosurgery development.

Methylation of DNA — One of the Major Epigenetic Markers

Regulation of gene expression is a complex process. It includes a great number of steps from control of mRNA synthesis to posttranslational modification of proteins. Epigenetic events play essential roles in regulation of transcription. In this review, we concentrate on methylation of DNA as one of the important epigenetic marks. It is well known that DNA methylation is associated with closed chromatin state and, therefore, repressed, inactive genes. Here we describe major processes that depend on DNA methylation: imprinting, X-inactivation, and oncogenesis. Also we describe a number of known methyl-DNA-binding proteins and links between methylation of DNA and higher-order chromatin structure.

Phase I/II trial of gene therapy with autologous tumor cells modified with tag7/PGRP-S gene in patients with disseminated solid tumors: miscellaneous tumors

BACKGROUND

The use of genetically modified autologous tumor cells appears to be a promising approach for cancer therapy. A phase I/II trial was undertaken to define the feasibility, safety and antitumor effects of the autologous vaccine prepared by transferring tag7/PGRP-S gene into malignant melanoma and renal cell carcinoma cells.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty-one patients (17 with disseminated malignant melanoma and four with metastatic renal cell carcinoma) were enrolled in this study. Cytoreduction was performed in all cases prior to therapy. Autologous tumor cells were transfected with the tag7/PGRP-S gene, irradiated and injected intradermally every 3 weeks.

RESULTS

Vaccinations were well tolerated by all patients, without clinically significant signs of toxicity. Delayed-type hypersensitivity was observed in 48% of cases. Antitumor immune response was observed in 95% of patients. There were no complete or partial responses; however, a minor response was achieved in one patient with renal cell carcinoma. The stabilization of neoplastic disease was observed in eight patients (seven with malignant melanoma and one with renal cell carcinoma). Median time to tumor progression was 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

The approach suggested here appears to be well tolerated and produces a number of durable clinical effects. Further studies are required to determine whether promising effects on immune activation will result in an actual clinical benefit for patients with malignant melanoma and renal cell carcinoma.