Modulation of pectin on intestinal barrier function via changes in microbial functional potential and bile acid metabolism

Weaning is one of the major factors that cause stress and intestinal infection in infants and in young animals due to an immature intestine and not fully developed immune functions. Pectin (PEC), a prebiotic polysaccharide, has attracted considerable attention in intestinal epithelial signaling and function via modulation of the microbial community. A total of 16 weaned piglets (21-d-old) were randomly assigned into two groups: control group and PEC group. Supplementation of 5% pectin improved intestinal mucosal barrier function by modulating the composition of the bile acid pool in piglets. Specifically, piglets in PEC group had less serum D-lactate content and alkaline phosphatase activity. In the ileum, dietary pectin increased the number of crypt PAS/AB-positive goblet cells and the mRNA expressions of MUC2, ZO-1, and Occludin. Piglets in PEC group displayed a decreased abundance of Enterococcus (2.71 vs. 65.92%), but the abundances of Lactobacillus (30.80 vs. 7.93%), Streptococcus (21.41 vs. 14.81%), and Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1 (28.34 vs. 0.01%) were increased. Elevated concentrations of bile acids especially hyocholic acid species (HCAs) including HCA, HDCA, and THDCA were also observed. Besides, correlation analysis revealed that dietary pectin supplementation may have beneficial effects through stimulation of the crosstalk between gut microbes and bile acid synthesis within the enterohepatic circulation. Thus, dietary pectin supplementation exhibited a further positive effect on the healthy growth and development of weaned piglets. These findings suggest pectin supplementation as the prebiotic is beneficial for gut health and improvement of weaned stress via regulating microbiota and bile acid metabolism.

Pectin modulates intestinal immunity in a pig model via regulating the gut microbiota-derived tryptophan metabolite-AhR-IL22 pathway

BACKGROUND

Pectin is a heteropolysaccharide that acts as an intestinal immunomodulator, promoting intestinal development and regulating intestinal flora in the gut. However, the relevant mechanisms remain obscure. In this study, pigs were fed a corn-soybean meal-based diet supplemented with either 5% microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) or 5% pectin for 3 weeks, to investigate the metabolites and anti-inflammatory properties of the jejunum.

RESULT

The results showed that dietary pectin supplementation improved intestinal integrity (Claudin-1, Occludin) and inflammatory response [interleukin (IL)-10], and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α) was down-regulated in the jejunum. Moreover, pectin supplementation altered the jejunal microbiome and tryptophan-related metabolites in piglets. Pectin specifically increased the abundance of Lactococcus, Enterococcus, and the microbiota-derived metabolites (skatole (ST), 3-indoleacetic acid (IAA), 3-indolepropionic acid (IPA), 5-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (HIAA), and tryptamine (Tpm)), which activated the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway. AhR activation modulates IL-22 and its downstream pathways. Correlation analysis revealed the potential relationship between metabolites and intestinal morphology, intestinal gene expression, and cytokine levels.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, these results indicated that pectin inhibits the inflammatory response by enhancing the AhR-IL22-signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 signaling pathway, which is activated through tryptophan metabolites.

Screening and characterization of Bacillus velezensis LB-Y-1 toward selection as a potential probiotic for poultry with multi-enzyme production property

Bacillus spp. have gained increasing recognition as an option to use as antimicrobial growth promoters, which are characterized by producing various enzymes and antimicrobial compounds. The present study was undertaken to screen and evaluate a Bacillus strain with the multi-enzyme production property for poultry production. LB-Y-1, screened from the intestines of healthy animals, was revealed to be a Bacillus velezensis by the morphological, biochemical, and molecular characterization. The strain was screened out by a specific screening program, possessed excellent multi-enzyme production potential, including protease, cellulase, and phytase. Moreover, the strain also exhibited amylolytic and lipolytic activity in vitro. The dietary LB-Y-1 supplementation improved growth performance and tibia mineralization in chicken broilers, and increased serum albumin and serum total protein at 21 days of age (p < 0.05). Besides, LB-Y-1 enhanced the activity of serum alkaline phosphatase and digestive enzyme in broilers at 21 and 42 days of age (p < 0.05). Analysis of intestinal microbiota showed that a higher community richness (Chao1 index) and diversity (Shannon index) in the LB-Y-1 supplemented compared with the CON group. PCoA analysis showed that the community composition and structure were distinctly different between the CON and LB-Y-1 group. The beneficial genera such as Parasutterella and Rikenellaceae were abundant, while the opportunistic pathogen such as Escherichia-Shigella were reduced in the LB-Y-1 supplemented group (p < 0.05). Collectively, LB-Y-1 can be considered as a potential strain for further utilization in direct-fed microbial or starter culture for fermentation.

Bacterial Community Characteristics Shaped by Artificial Environmental PM2.5 Control in Intensive Broiler Houses

Multilayer cage-houses for broiler rearing have been widely used in intensive Chinese farming in the last decade. This study investigated the characteristics and influencing factors of bacterial communities in the PM2.5 of broiler cage-houses. The PM2.5 samples and environmental variables were collected inside and outside of three parallel broiler houses at the early, middle, and late rearing stages; broiler manure was also gathered simultaneously. The bacterial 16S rRNA sequencing results indicated that indoor bacterial communities were different from the outdoor atmosphere and manure. Furthermore, the variations in airborne bacterial composition and structure were highly influenced by the environmental control variables at different growth stages. The db-RDA results showed that temperature and wind speed, which were artificially modified according to managing the needs for broiler growth, were the main factors affecting the diversity of dominant taxa. Indoor airborne and manurial samples shared numerous common genera, which contained high abundances of manure-origin bacteria. Additionally, the airborne bacterial community tended to stabilize in the middle and late stages, but the population of potentially pathogenic bacteria grew gradually. Overall, this study enhances the understanding of airborne bacteria variations and highlighted the potential role of environmental control measures in intensive farming.

Pectin supplement alleviates gut injury potentially through improving gut microbiota community in piglets

As pectin is widely used as a food and feed additive due to its tremendous prebiotic potentials for gut health. Yet, the underlying mechanisms associated with its protective effect remain unclear. Twenty-four piglets (Yorkshire × Landrace, 6.77 ± 0.92 kg) were randomly divided into three groups with eight replicates per treatment: (1) Control group (CON), (2) Lipopolysaccharide-challenged group (LPS), (3) Pectin-LPS group (PECL). Piglets were administrated with LPS or saline on d14 and 21 of the experiment. Piglets in each group were fed with corn-soybean meal diets containing 5% citrus pectin or 5% microcrystalline cellulose. Our result showed that pectin alleviated the morphological damage features by restoring the goblet numbers which the pig induced by LPS in the cecum. Besides, compared with the LPS group, pectin supplementation elevated the mRNA expression of tight junction protein [Claudin-1, Claudin-4, and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1)], mucin (Muc-2), and anti-inflammatory cytokines [interleukin 10 (IL-10), and IL-22]. Whereas pectin downregulated the expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18), tumor necrosis factor-&alpha (TNF-α), and NF-κB. What is more, pectin supplementation also significantly increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria (Lactobacillus, Clostridium_sensu_stricto_1, Blautia, and Subdoligranulum), and significantly reduced the abundance of harmful bacteria, such as Streptococcus. Additionally, pectin restored the amount of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) after being decreased by LPS (mainly Acetic acid, Propionic acid, and Butyric acid) to alleviate gut injury and improve gut immunity via activating relative receptors (GPR43, GPR109, AhR). Mantel test and correlation analysis also revealed associations between intestinal microbiota and intestinal morphology, and intestinal inflammation in piglets. Taken together, dietary pectin supplementation enhances the gut barrier and improves immunity to ameliorate LPS-induced injury by optimizing gut microbiota and their metabolites.

Prediction of acute toxicity to Daphnia magna and interspecific correlation: a global QSAR model and a Daphnia-minnow QTTR model

Acute toxicity is an important basis for the assessment of hazardous chemicals, but currently there is a huge data gap in chemical toxicity information. The in silico Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) models can use the existing experimental data information to predict the missing chemical toxicity information data and thus reduce animal testing. In the present study, a global QSAR model for the prediction of acute Daphnia magna toxicity has been developed based on the five principles proposed by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Moreover, a Daphnia-minnow (referring specifically to the fathead minnow) Quantitative Toxicity-Toxicity Relationship (QTTR) prediction model has been developed based on the present study and our previous work on fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas). Both the QSAR and QTTR prediction models have good goodness-of-fit, robustness, and predictive ability. Finally, the acute toxicity mode of action (MOA) for fathead minnow and Daphnia magna was compared by toxicity ratio based on interspecies toxicity data. By comparison, Daphnia magna was found more sensitive to anilines and phosphorothioates than fathead minnow. The present models can fill the acute toxicity data gap and contribute to the chemicals risk assessment and priority setting.

Pectin supplementation ameliorates intestinal epithelial barrier function damage by modulating intestinal microbiota in lipopolysaccharide-challenged piglets

During weaning, infants and young animals are susceptible to severe enteric infections, thus inducing intestinal microbiota dysbiosis, intestinal inflammation, and impaired intestinal barrier function. Pectin (PEC), a prebiotic polysaccharide, enhances intestinal health with the potential for therapeutic effect on intestinal diseases. One 21-days study was conducted to investigate the protective effect of pectin against intestinal injury induced by intraperitoneal injection of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in a piglet model. A total of 24 piglets (6.77±0.92 kg BW; Duroc × Landrace × Large White; barrows; 21 d of age) were randomly assigned into three groups: control group, LPS-challenged group, and PEC + LPS group. Piglets were administrated with LPS or saline on d14 and d21 of the experiment. All piglets were slaughtered and intestinal samples were collected after 3 h administration on d21. Pectin supplementation ameliorated the LPS-induced inflammation response and damage to the ileal morphology. Meanwhile, pectin also improved intestinal mucin barrier function, increased the mRNA expression of MUC2, and improved intestinal mucus glycosylation. LPS challenge reduced the diversity of intestinal microbiota and enriched the relative abundance of Helicobacter. Pectin restored alpha diversity improved the structure of the gut microbiota by enriching anti-inflammatory bacteria and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing bacteria, and increased the concentrations of acetate. In addition, Spearman rank correlation analysis also revealed the potential relationship between intestinal microbiota and intestinal morphology, intestinal inflammation, and intestinal glycosylation in piglets. Taken together, these results indicate that pectin enhances intestinal integrity and barrier function by altering intestinal microbiota composition and their metabolites, which subsequently alleviates intestinal injury and finally improves the growth performance of piglets.

A new paradigm for a new simple chemical: butyrate & immune regulation

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) play an important role in the host system. Among SCFAs, butyrate has received particular attention for its large effect on host immunity, particularly in supplying energy to enterocytes and producing immune cells. Butyrate enters the cells through the Solute Carrier Family 5 Member 8 (SLC5A8) transporters, then works as a histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDAC) that inhibits the activation of Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), which down-regulates the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α. Meanwhile, butyrate acts as a ligand to activate G protein-coupled receptors GPR41, GPR43, and GPR109, promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory factors. Besides, it inhibits the proinflammatory factors. Further, it can also suppress the expression of chemokines and reduce inflammation to maintain host homeostasis. This paper reviews the research progress highlighting the potential function of butyrate as a factor impacting intestinal health, obesity and brain disorders.

Hyaluronan tetrasaccharide in the cerebrospinal fluid is associated with self-repair of rats after chronic spinal cord compression

The objective of this study was to explore changes in hyaluronan levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in a spinal cord compression model, to investigate whether hyaluronan tetrasaccharide was involved in this process, and to test the effects of hyaluronan tetrasaccharide on neuron and oligodendrocyte repair. We developed a chronic spinal cord compression model with various sizes of polymer sheets (1.5×0.7×0.3 mm(3); 5×1.5×0.7 mm(3)) that were implanted microsurgically underneath the C(5-6) laminae. The rats were divided into three groups: a sham group, a mildly compressed (MC) group, and a widely compressed (WC) group. Locomotor functional evaluations revealed that the behavioral function of the MC and WC groups dropped to their lowest level from the fourth to fifth week and gradually recovered thereafter. The hyaluronan levels in the CSF gradually increased after spinal cord compression. Furthermore, hyaluronan tetrasaccharide was involved in the hyaluronan change. In addition, we found that nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and cellular inhibitor-of-apoptosis protein 2 (c-IAP(2)) were co-expressed in neurons and oligodendrocytes, and caspase-3 expression gradually decreased in the compression model. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression was upregulated in astrocytes at the fourth week post-compression. Hyaluronan tetrasaccharide (HA(4)) induced NF-κB and c-IAP(2) to suppress the H(2)O(2)-induced apoptosis in primary neuronal cultures and increased BDNF and VEGF expression in astrocytic cultures in vitro. These findings suggest that HA(4) in the CSF may associate with behavioral recovery by increasing the levels of NF-κB, c-IAP(2), and neurotrophic factors after chronic spinal cord compression.

Cbfa1/osf2 transduced bone marrow stromal cells facilitate bone formation in vitro and in vivo

It has been well established that core binding factor a-1/osteoblast-specific factor-2 (cbfa1/osf2) is a key regulator of osteoblast differentiation and function, however, it is not known whether it can induce bone formation in vitro and in vivo. To investigate the effect of cbfa1/osf2 on bone formation, we used a recombinant adenoviral vector carrying the mouse cbfa1/osf2 gene to transduce primary cultured bone marrow stromal cells (MSCs) of BALB/c mice. We found that Ad-cbfa1/osf2-transduced MSCs produced cbfa1/osf2 protein and differentiated into osteoblast-like cells. The transduced MSCs had increased alkaline phosphatase activity, increased expression of osteocalcin, osteopontin and bone sialoprotein, and increased matrix mineralization in vitro. To observe the induction of bone formation in vivo, MSCs transduced with Ad-cbfa1/osf2 were transplanted into a 5 mm diameter critical-sized skull defect in BALB/c mice, with type I collagen as scaffolding material. Healing of the defect in treatment and control groups was examined grossly and histologically at four weeks. Skull defects transplanted with Ad-cbfa1/osf2-transduced MSCs had an average of 85% osseous closure at four weeks. Control groups in which the defects were not treated (group 1), treated with collagen only (group 2), or treated with collagen and nontransduced MSCs (group 3) showed little or no osseous healing. These studies indicate that cbfa1/osf2 can induce osteoblast differentiation and bone formation both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that MSCs transduced with the cbfa1/osf2 gene may be useful in treating bone defects.

[Effect of sequential application of calcitonin and parathyroid hormone on bone remodeling process, an experimental research]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of sequential application of calcitonin and parathyroid hormone (PTH) on bone remodeling process.

METHODS

Twelve female rats were divided equally into 2 groups: experimental group and control group. 1 U/100 g of calcitonin was injected intramuscularly to 6 rats for two days, and rrPTH in dosage of 30 micrograms was injected intramuscularly in the fourth and fifth days. At the sixth day their lumbar vertebral bodies were resected. Undecalcified and decalcified bone sections were made to be observed by optical microscopy and electronic microscopy. Bone histomorphological parameters were measured. Normal saline and solvent of the same volume were injected intramuscularly to the controls.

RESULTS

The OS/BS (%), O. Th (micron), N.Ob.S (cell/mm), and Vos/TV (%) were 19.9% +/- 6.2%, 3.4 microns +/- 0.4 micron, 37.6 cells/mm +/- 4.6 cells/mm, and 1.8% +/- 0.6% respectively in the experimental group, significantly higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05). After the PTH administration, more and plumper osteoblasts were observed. They were rich in rough endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and Golgi apparatus.

CONCLUSION

Sequential application of calcitonin and parathyroid hormone obviously promotes the bone formation process. Both sites of bone remodeling formation and sites of bone modeling formation, especially the latter, increase.

[Influence of solid thoracolumbar kyphosis on lumbar spine and surgical treatment]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the influence of solid thoracolumbar kyphosis on the lumbar spine and surgical treatment.

METHODS

14 had solid kyphosis of the thoracolumbar spine. Cobb angle of kyphosis of the thoracolumbar spine and lordosis between L(2)/S(1), L(2)/L(5), L(2)/L(3), L(3)/L(4), L(4)/L(5), L(5)/S(1) pre- and post-osteotomy was measured respectively, and the amount of vertebrae slipped over 3mm was recorded. The results were compared with those of the normal group respectively.

RESULTS

The Cobb angles of lordosis between L(2)/S(1), L(2)/L(5), L(2)/L(3), L(3)/L(4), L(4)/L(5), L(5)/S(1) in the deformity group were increased significantly compared with those that of the normal group respectively; obvious changes in percentage occurred in the segment between L(2)/L(3) and L(3)/L(4). Over lordosis of the lumbar spine was greatly corrected postosteotomy of the thoracolumbar spine, it was still significantly different compared with that of the normal group. In 9 patients with retrolisthesis of 20 vertebrae, 70% occurred in L(2) and L(3) vertebrae. The amount of retrolisthesis of vertebrae decreased to 3 in two patients. No retrolisthesis of vertebra was seen in the normal group. Single-stage procedures combined with anterior releasing and posterior osteotomy through facet joints for kyphosis of the thoracolumbar spine showed a correction. rate of 85.7%, but single-stage osteotomy through the posterior vertebra showed a correction rate of 60.7%. Seven of 8 patients who had had seriously back pain complained of no pain or slight backache after operation. 40% of the patients showed functional improvement in the sphincter of the urinary bladder and anus. 50% of the patients had improvement in muscle strength.

CONCLUSIONS

Kyphosis of the thoracolumbar spine may result in over lordosis of the lumbar spine and retrolisthesis of vertebrae, which are obvious in the upper lumbar spine. These changes may lead to back pain. Correction of kyphosis of the thoracolumbar spine may obviously decrease over lordosis of the lumbar spine and inclination of vertebral slip, and may further decrease the overload to the posterior column of the spine and relieve back pain. Osteotomy combined with anterior and posterior procedures is effective and safe in the correction of kyphosis of the thoracolumbar spine.

[A color analysis of the Han dynasty's Yangling Tombs colored pottery figurine by spectroscopy]

Many colored pottery figurines have been discovered from Yangling Tombs in which Han Jingdi, Qi LIU, the fourth emperor of Xi Han dynasty was buried together with his Wang empress. They were of important academic and aesthetic value. The analysis of the colored pottery figurines from Yangling Tombs of Han Dynasty was realized by X-ray diffraction, emission spectrum, infrared spectrum, X-ray fluorescence and fiber optics reflectance spectroscopy(FORS). Consequent results showed that the colored components were respectively mercuric(II) sulphide(HgS), ferric(III) oxide(Fe2O3), and Carbon(C), among which mercuric(II) sulphide was an artificial pigment.

[Radiographic studies of cervical spine motion range in normal Chinese subjects with computer-assisted image analysis: full flexion and extension]

OBJECTIVES

To study the degenerative regularity of normal Chinese cervical spine by observing the motion range of full cervical flexion and extension, and to provide evidences for further investigation of cervical segmental instability.

METHODS

764 X-ray plain films of full cervical flexion and extension in 382 normal Chinese subjects (214 were male and 168 female) were investigated using self-designed cervical X-ray image analysis system. The subjects within the same sex group were divided into three groups according to the age: group A (20 years to 39 years), group B (40 years to 59 years) and group C (60 years to 76 years). During the full cervical flexion and extension motion, total intervertebral motion range (from C(2) - C(3) to C(6) - C(7)) and intervertebral motion range at each level were major parameters.

RESULTS

The range of total intervertebral motion showed much greater mobility in group A than in group B and group C (P < 0.01) but no statistically significant difference between group B and group C (P > 0.05). The range of intervertebral motion was maximal at C(5) - C(6) in group A. The place of maximal motion shifted to the C(4) - C(5) in both group B and group C. C(2) - C(3) showed minimal mobility in all three groups. There was no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05) between male and female.

CONCLUSIONS

The motion range and degenerative regularity of normal Chinese cervical spine were similar in either sex. The range of total intervertebral motion (from C(2) - C(3) to C(6) - C(7)) had a tendency to decrease rapidly and then became steady with age. For the range of intervertebral motion, the place of maximal motion shifted to the higher level with age from C(5) - C(6) in group A to C(4) - C(5) in group B and group C.

[Motor-evoked potential in investigating neurologic function during spinal cord ischemia and reperfusion injury]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the method monitoring the neurologic function of spinal cord ischemia and reperfusion injury.

METHODS

Motor-evoked potentials (MEP)were monitored at different time points during ischemia and reperfusion of the lumbar spinal cord of the rat.

RESULTS

MEP latency increased 15 minutes after ischemia (P < 0.01) and MEP amplitude decreased 25 minutes after ischemia (P < 0.01). MEP disappeared 40 minutes after ischemia and reappeared 5 minutes after reperfusion, but the latency was still longer and the amplitude was lower than the normal value (P < 0.01). The amplitude returned to normal 2 hours after reperfusion (P > 0.05) in contrast to the latency. 24 hours after reperfusion, the amplitude decreased again, and motor function of rat hind limbs was more decreased than that at early time of reperfusion (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

MEP is a sensitive index for spinal cord ischemia and reperfusion injury.

[An epidemiological survey and treatment of blindness in Zhangqiu city of Shandong province]

OBJECTIVE

An epidemiological survey of blindness was carried out in Zhangqiu city of Shandong province.

METHODS

According to stratified random sampling rule, 11,884 persons were chosen as the sample (the sampling fraction is 1.27%) in the city. The WHO grading system for blindness was followed in the survey.

RESULTS

The prevalence of blindness was found to be 0.31%, resulting chiefly from cataract (45.95%), glaucoma (24.32%) and vitreous retinal disease (13.51%). 1 016 cases of blindness caused by cataract were operated for restoration of vision, that were accounted for 73.89% of all cataract blindness estimated from the result of the survey. The rate of intraocular lens implantation in the restorative operations was 84.15% (855/1,016). After operation, the corrected vision in 64.47% of the blindness was >or= 1.0, in 21.26% between 0.6 - 0.9, in 10.24% between 0.3 - 0.5, and in 4.03% between 0.05 - 0.2.

CONCLUSION

The epidemiological results show that the main cause of blindness is cataract. So it is the key objective for surgical restoration of vision in the prevention of the blindness in later days.

[Construction of porous hydroxyapatite (HA) block loaded with cultured chondrocytes]

OBJECTIVE

To construct a kind of bone healing enhancing implant with cultured chondrocytes bound to hydroxyapatite (HA).

METHODS

Chondrocytes were obtained from the costicartilage of rat and were cultured on the porous HA blocks, 3 mm x 3 mm x 4 mm size, for three and seven days. Scanning electron micrograph was taken to show whether the cells grew outside and inside the pore of HA block. The cells cultured on tiny glass sheet for 2 days were used to prove where the cells come from by in situ hybridization technique with alpha1 (II) cDNA probe.

RESULTS

Scanning electron micrographs showed that the pores of the HA surface and inside of the blocks are filled with cultured cells, especially the longer cultured block. The cells were chondrocytes confirmed by in situ hybridization.

CONCLUSION

The porous HA can be used as cell cultured substrate and chondrocyte can adhere and proliferate inside the porous HA block.

[Bone tissue engineering seeded with bone marrow stromal cells]

OBJECTIVE

To assess the ability of bone graft substitutes to support the growth of cells in vitro and new bone formation in vivo.

METHODS

The methods of tissue engineering were employed, the bone marrow derived stromal cells were seeded onto blocks of hydroxypatite (HA), cultured for two weeks, and implanted intermuscularly into the rabbit back muscle, scanning electron microscopy and undecalcified bone tissue sections were used to evaluate the the growth of cells in vitro and new bone formation in vivo.

RESULTS

The stromal cells were attached to and grew upon the surface of the periphery HA pores, especially in the pores adjacent to the bottom of culture flasks. No cell growth was found on the surface of the central pores. At four weeks after implantation, new bone formation was observed in most HA blocks, almost all of the new bones were lamellar bone and deposited directly on the surface of the HA pore. Active osteoblast and osteoid were found on the surface of the newly formed bone, invasion of bone marrow was observed in some newly formed bone.

CONCLUSION

Bone marrow stromal cells are potentially the source of seeded cells for use in bone tissue engineering, and the HA may be considered as a suitable scaffold for these cells. The findings may be useful for detailed researches on seeded cells, scaffold and implanting fashion of bone tissue engineering.

[Human bone morphogenetic protein-2: recombinant expression in E. coli]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the way of producing human bone morphogenetic protein-2(hBMP-2) for bone healing by using the gene engeneering techniques.

METHODS

hBMP-2 cDNA fragment, which consists of 3' end partial propeptide and mature peptide sequence, was inserted into the multiple cloning site of expression vector pkpL-3a via ligation. The recombinant plasmid pkpL-3a/hBMP-2 was transformed into E. coli pOp2136. By the method of restriction map, the positive expression clone was selected. SDS-PAGE analysis showed a new foreign protein band near 27,000 after induction. The yield of induced hBMP-2 accouned for 10% of the total bacterial proteins.

RESULTS

The partial purified recombinant hBMP-2 was implanted into Wistar rat thigh. After 4 weeks, histological analysis showed that it induced the proliferation of mesenchymal type cells and formation of new cartilage and bone in the implantation area.

CONCLUSION

The hBMP-2 produced by gene engeneering techniques has the biologic capacity of ectopic bone formation.

[The experimental research of transforming growth factor-beta 1 expression during fracture healing]

OBJECTIVE

To observe the effect of TGF-beta 1 in the regulation of fracture healing.

METHOD

The expression of transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-beta 1) in different period of fracture healing was investigated by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

It was found that the expression of TGF-beta 1 changed in different period. The cells in the cambial layer of the periostlum showed low or negative signal in the immediate injury response period. The osteoblasts differentiated from the periosteum cells stained strongly in the intramembranous ossification period, and the differentiated chondrocytes stained most strongly in the chondrogenesis period. The hypertrophic chondrocytes showed negative signal and the osteoblasts stained strongly in the endochondral ossification period. These results suggested that the expression of TGF-beta 1 was closely related to the proliferation and differentiation state of repair cells.

CONCLUSION

TGF-beta 1 is intimately involved in the control of fracture healing.

Oncogenes in tumor metabolism, tumorigenesis, and apoptosis

The ability of cancer cells to overproduce lactic acid aerobically was recognized by Warburg about seven decades ago, although its molecular basis has been elusive. Increases in glucose transport and hexokinase activity in cancer cells appear to account for the increased flux of glucose through the cancer cells. Herein we review current findings indicating that the c-Myc oncogenic transcription factor and hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (HIF-1) are able to bind the lactate dehydrogenase A promoter cis acting elements, which resemble the core carbohydrate response element (ChoRE), CACGTG. These and other observations suggest that the normal cell responds physiologically to changes in oxygen tension or the availability of glucose by altering glycolysis through the ChoRE, which hypothetically binds c-Myc, HIF-1, or related factors. The neoplastic cell is hypothesized to augment glycolysis by activation of ChoRE/ HIF-1 sites through direct interaction with c-Myc or through activation of HIF-1 or HIF-1-like activity. We hypothesize that oncogene products either stimulate HIF-1 and related factors or, in the case of c-Myc, directly activate hypoxia/glucose responsive elements in glycolytic enzyme genes to increase the ability of cancer cells to undergo aerobic glycolysis.

c-Myc transactivation of LDH-A: implications for tumor metabolism and growth

Cancer cells are able to overproduce lactic acid aerobically, whereas normal cells undergo anaerobic glycolysis only when deprived of oxygen. Tumor aerobic glycolysis was recognized about seven decades ago; however, its molecular basis has remained elusive. The lactate dehydrogenase-A gene (LDH-A), whose product participates in normal anaerobic glycolysis and is frequently increased in human cancers, was identified as a c-Myc-responsive gene. Stably transfected Rat1a fibroblasts that overexpress LDH-A alone or those transformed by c-Myc overproduce lactic acid. LDH-A overexpression is required for c-Myc-mediated transformation because lowering its level through antisense LDH-A expression reduces soft agar clonogenicity of c-Myc-transformed Rat1a fibroblasts, c-Myc-transformed human lymphoblastoid cells, and Burkitt lymphoma cells. Although antisense expression of LDH-A did not affect the growth of c-Myc-transformed fibroblasts adherent to culture dishes under normoxic conditions, the growth of these adherent cells in hypoxia was reduced. These observations suggest that an increased LDH-A level is required for the growth of a transformed spheroid cell mass, which has a hypoxic internal microenvironment. Our studies have linked c-Myc to the induction of LDH-A, whose expression increases lactate production and is necessary for c-Myc-mediated transformation.

[Foraminal and extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations]

The severity of the clinical presentations of the foraminal or extraforaminal lumbar disc herniation (FLDH or EFLDH) and its response to conservative treatment were different. In order to make clear the reasons for that and then chose the best method of treatment, two types of FLDH or EFLDH were classified in a group of 23 cases according to the location of the protruded disc shown in the films of CT or MRI. Type I: the disc protruded up to the superior pedicle closely. Type II: the disc protruded laterally mainly with slight moving up. Then two subtypes were made, subtype a: symple FLDH or EFLDH: subtype b: if combined with posterior lateral disc herniation. In total of 23 cases there were 10 of type (I a: 8, I b: 2) and 13 of type II (II a: 7, II b: 6), among of which there were 14 FLDHs and 9 EFLDHs. The clinical presentations and the results of conservative treatment were compared between the two types. The results of statistical analysis showed that the severity of damage to the nerve root and its response to conservative treatment were mainly related to the location of the protruded disc to the superior pedicle rather than the protruded disc in the foramen or extraforamen. All of cases of type I had more severe symptoms and signs, poorer results of conservative treatment and were operated on finally. However some cases of type II only had slight or even no symptoms and signs at all, 50% of the patients in the type II were cured by nonsurgical methods. So it was suggested that the cases of type I be treated surgically mainly, whereas the type II initially be treated conservatively and if failed, go to operation. The approach lateral to the pars interarticularis for the discectomy had more advantages than the other methods and could be applied in most of cases. If combined posterior lateral disc herniation was the main pathologic change in the cases of type II laminectomy with partial facetectomy might be used. The classification is reliable as it is well consisten with the findings of operations. So it is valuable for the guidance of determining the method of nonsurgical or surgical treatment.

New surgical technique for treatment of extraarticular knee ankylosis

Laboratory and clinical studies were conducted to evaluate a treatment regimen for extraarticular ankylosis of the knee. The study evaluated the use of a porcine biomembrane to prevent quadriceps adhesions. A canine model was studied to determine the cellular response to the membrane by evaluating biopsies at 3, 7, 14, and 21 days after surgery using light and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that there was nonspecific inflammatory cell infiltration into the base (rough) layer of the biomembrane during the first few days, although fibroblasts were the dominant cellular response 7 days later. No significant tissue ingrowth was seen on the smooth (muscular interface) surface of the membrane. The clinical study applied the information gained from the canine model to a series of 23 patients who suffered from extraarticular knee ankylosis and who were treated with a surgical procedure in which the released interface between the femur and the muscle groups was protected with a piece of porcine biomembrane. Subjects were observed from 16 to 30 months (mean, 26 months) after surgery. An average increase in knee range of motion of 86 degrees was documented, and a 100% patient satisfaction rate was noted. The technique yields satisfactory results in terms of cost, range of motion, and postoperative pain.

[An experimental study on BMP gene expression in vivo]

The authors inserted the full length BMP-1 cDNA into Xbal-treated pRc/RSV plasmid via ligation, resulting in construction of pRc/RSV/BMP-1 eukaryotic expression vector. The validity of the reconstructed vector was confirmed by the restriction map. Then more reconstructed plasmids were extracted. According to the general principle of gene therapy, 100 micrograms of pRc/RSV/BMP-1 plasmid was transferred into a Balb/c mouse quadriceps by implantation under anaesthesia respectively. After 3 weeks, the BMP gene expression was detected in the mouse muscles by histoimmunochemistry.

[Cervical intervertebral disc calcification in children: report of 10 patients]

Eleven cervical intervertebral space calcifications were studied in ten children (5 boys, 5 girls), with mean age of 9.4 years. The aetiology, symptoms, roentgenographic clinic features were analyzied. All ten patients showed evidence of calcification of the cervical intervertebral disc. One had calcification in two disc spaces of the cervical spine and associated with subluxation of C1,2. Two patients had calcification protruded into the spinal canal without symptoms of spinal cord compression. One had symptom of nerve root irritation. Eight of ten patients had symptoms which disappeared in two weeks after treatment. Eight patients had been followed over one year. The calcification disappeared from 2 to 8 months. The diagnostic criteria for the syndrome of this study are: (1) pediatric age group only; (2) local or referred pain; (3) limited cervical spine motiion; (4) evidence of inflammation; (5) visible calcification of the cervercal intervertebral disc on roentgenogram; (6) self-limited course; (7) good result after conservative treatment and good prognosis.

[Foraminal and extraforaminal lumbar disc herniations]

Between August 1992 to November 1994, 7 cases of foraminal and 3 cases of extraforaminal lumbar disc herniation were diagnosed and operated on, which represented an incidence of 4.1% of all operated lumber disc herniations. Contrasted to the typical disc herniation, foraminal and extraforaminal disc herniations involved the upper nerve root mainly. The dominent symptoms and signs were severe anterior thigh and lower leg pain, positive femoral nerve strech test, impairment of knee jerk reflex and weakness of the quadriceps muscle. Sequestration and extrusion were the most common type of disc pathology. CT/MRI showed the protruded disc in and outside of the foramen clearly. It was thought to be ideal method for the precise diagnosis and guidance of surgery. However the variations of the nerve root or other diseases related to it should be identified. All of the 10 cases underwent surgical treatment with the approach by outer edge of pars interarticularis in 8. The result was encouraging with complete improvement in 8 cases, obvious improvement in 1 case, and partial improvement in another case. It was found that the approach had the advantage of good exposure and effect with the minimal destruction of pars interarticularis and facet joint which would not give rise to lumbar instability.

[The pathogenetic factors for neurogenic intermittent claudication caused by degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis]

The pathogenetic factors in 89 patients with typical neurogenic intermittent claudication caused by lumbar spinal stenosis were studied retrospectively. 75 patients had degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis, and 67 had unilateral nerve root canal stenosis. In most patients, the stenotic location was found at the entrance zone of nerve root canal (75/89), involving only a single level (60/89) mostly at L4.5. The pathogenetic factors for degenerative lumbar spinal stenosis were degenerative changes of lumbar disc only (55/89), and those for hypertrophy of facet joints (22/89), thickened ligamentum flavum (11/89), and spondylolis thesis (10/89). All patients were operated on: 57 of them had less invasive procedures. The excellent and good early follow-up results were noted in 73% of the patients (65/89). The authors emphasized that the surgical treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis should be as less invasive as possible rather than a tranditional extensive lumbar laminectomy.

Anterior intervertebral disc excision and bone grafting in cervical spondylotic myelopathy

An analysis of 121 cases of cervical spondylotic myelopathy treated by anterior excision of the disc and fusion was undertaken. All patients were followed at least six months, and follow-up averaged 22 months. Results showed that 97.5% of patients had no aggravation of symptoms, 90.9% were improved, and 72.6% were able to resume normal activity. Surgical intervention can greatly improve the prospects of patients with severe cervical spondylotic myelopathy, and its use should not be lightly ruled out. Autografts yield higher fusion rates and better overall results than homografts. Selection of the number and level of discs to be excised depends upon clinical and roentgenographic indications, as well as the myelogram and the amount of fluid injected into the discs.