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In Vivo Imaging of Ischemia/Reperfusion-mediated Aminopeptidase N Expression in Surgical Rat Model Using 68Ga-NOTA-c(NGR). In Vivo 2022; 36:657-666. [PMID: 35241519 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.12750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Previous studies have already shown that 68Gallium(68Ga)-labeled NGR-based radiopharmaceuticals specifically bind to the neoangiogenic molecule Aminopeptidase N (APN/CD13). The aim of this study was to evaluate the applicability of 68Ga-NOTA-c(NGR) in the in vivo detection of the temporal changes of APN/CD13 expression in the diabetic retinopathy rat model using positron emission tomography (PET). MATERIALS AND METHODS Ischemia/reperfusion injury was initiated by surgical ligation of the left bulbus oculi of rats. In vivo PET imaging studies were performed after the surgery using 68Ga-NOTA-c(NGR). RESULTS Significantly higher 68Ga-NOTA-c(NGR) uptake was observed in the surgically-ligated left bulbus, compared to the bulbus of the non-surgical group at each investigated time point. The western blot and histological analysis confirmed the increased expression of the neo-angiogenic marker APN/CD13. CONCLUSION 68Ga-NOTA-c(NGR) is a suitable radiotracer for the detection of the temporal changes of the ischemia/reperfusion-mediated expression of APN/CD13 in the surgically induced diabetic retinopathy rat model.
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In vivo preclinical assessment of novel 68Ga-labelled peptides for imaging of tumor associated angiogenesis using positron emission tomography imaging. Appl Radiat Isot 2021; 174:109778. [PMID: 34004593 DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2021.109778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Formation and growth of metastases require a new vascular network. Angiogenesis plays an essential role in the expansion and progression of most malignancies. A high number of molecular pathways regulate angiogenesis, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), αvβ3 integrin, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), or aminopeptidase N. The aim of this study is to involve new, easily accessible peptide sequences into the of neo-angiogenesis in malignant processes. Labelling of these peptide ligands with 68Ga enable PET imaging of neo-vascularization.
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Comparative preclinical evaluation of 68Ga-NODAGA and 68Ga-HBED-CC conjugated procainamide in melanoma imaging. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2017; 139:54-64. [PMID: 28273651 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2017.02.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2017] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/26/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Malignant melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. The early detection of primary melanoma tumors and metastases using non-invasive PET imaging determines the outcome of this disease. Previous studies have shown that benzamide derivatives (e.g. procainamide) conjugated with PET radionuclides specifically bind to melanin pigment of melanoma tumors. 68Ga chelating agents can have high influence on physiological properties of 68Ga labeled bioactive molecules, as was experienced during the application of HBED-CC on PSMA ligand. The aim of this study was to assess this concept in the case of the melanin specific procaindamide (PCA) and to compare the melanin specificity of 68Ga-labeled PCA using HBED-CC and NODAGA chelators under in vitro and in vivo conditions. Procainamide (PCA) was conjugated with HBED-CC and NODAGA chelators and was labeled with Ga-68. The melanin specificity of 68Ga-HBED-CC-PCA and 68Ga-NODAGA-PCA was investigated in vitro and in vivo using amelanotic (MELUR and A375) and melanin containing (B16-F10) melanoma cell lines. Tumor-bearing mice were prepared by subcutaneous injection of B16-F10, MELUR and A375 melanoma cells into C57BL/6 and SCID mice. 21±2days after tumor cell inoculation and 90min after intravenous injection of the 68Ga-labelledlabeled radiopharmacons whole body PET/MRI scans were performed. 68Ga-NODAGA-PCA and 68Ga-HBED-CC-PCA were produced with excellent radiochemical purity (98%). In vitro experiments demonstrated that after 30 and 90min incubation time 68Ga-NODAGA-PCA uptake of B16-F10 cells was significantly (p≤0.01) higher than the 68Ga-HBED-CC-conjugated PCA accumulation in the same cell line. Furthermore, significant difference (p≤0.01 and 0.05) was found between the uptake of melanin negative and positive cell lines using 68Ga-NODAGA-PCA and 68Ga-HBED-CC-PCA. In vivo PET/MRI studies using tumor models revealed significantly (p≤0.01) higher 68Ga-NODAGA-PCA uptake (SUVmean: 0.46±0.05, SUVmax: 1.96±0.25,T/M ratio: 40.7±4.23) in B16-F10 tumors in contrast to 68Ga-HBED-CC-PCA where the SUVmean, SUVmax and T/M ratio were 0.13±0.01, 0.56±0.11 and 11.43±1.24, respectively. Melanin specific PCA conjugated with NODAGA chelator showed higher specific binding properties than conjugated with HBED-CC. The chemical properties of the bifunctional chelators used for 68Ga-labeling of PCA determine the biological behaviour of the probes. Due to the high specificity and sensitivity 68Ga-labeled PCA molecules are promising radiotracers in melanoma imaging.
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Autologous dendritic cell based adoptive immunotherapy of patients with colorectal cancer-A phase I-II study. Pathol Oncol Res 2013; 20:357-65. [PMID: 24163303 DOI: 10.1007/s12253-013-9704-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2012] [Accepted: 10/02/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Dendritic cell-based active immunotherapies of cancer patients are aimed to provoke the proliferation and differentiation of tumor-specific CD4(+) and CD8(+) T-lymphocytes towards protective effector cells. Isolation and in vitro differentiation of circulating blood monocytes has been established a reasonable platform for adoptively transferred DC-based immunotherapies. In the present study the safety and tolerability of vaccination by autologous tumor cell lysates (oncolysate)- or carcinoembriogenic antigen (CEA)-loaded DCs in patients with colorectal cancer was investigated in a phase I-II trial. The study included 12 patients with histologically confirmed colorectal cancer (Dukes B2-C stages). Six of the patients received oncolysate-pulsed, whereas the other six received recombinant CEA-loaded autologous DCs. The potential of the tumor antigen-loaded DCs to provoke the patient's immune system was studied both in vivo and in vitro. The clinical outcome of the therapy evaluated after 7 years revealed that none of the six patients treated with oncolysate-loaded DCs showed relapse of colorectal cancer, whereas three out of the six patients treated with CEA-loaded DCs died because of tumor relapse. Immunization with both the oncolysate- and the CEA-loaded autologous DCs induced measurable immune responses, which could be detected in vivo by cutaneous reactions and in vitro by lymphocyte proliferation assay. Our results show that vaccination by autologous DCs loaded with autologous oncolysates containing various tumor antigens represents a well tolerated therapeutic modality in patients with colorectal cancer without any detectable adverse effects. Demonstration of the efficacy of such therapy needs further studies with increased number of patients.
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[The importance of fine needle aspiration cytology in the management of recurrent and metastatic melanoma]. Orv Hetil 2012; 153:1419-23. [PMID: 22951409 DOI: 10.1556/oh.2012.29434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Fine needle aspiration cytology is a widely accepted, reliable diagnostic modality for the early detection of metastases. OBJECTIVE Quality assurance analysis of fine needle aspiration cytology in melanoma patients. METHOD A total of 194 biopsies performed in 142 melanoma patients were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS 138 (71.13%) cutaneous or subcutaneous nodules and 56 (28.87%) palpable lymph nodes were studied. 87 (44.85%) true positive, 92 (47.42%) true negative, 3 (1.55%) false positive and 12 (6.19%) false negative cytology results were found. High sensitivity (87.89%), specificity (96.84%) and diagnostic accuracy (93.72%) were confirmed. DISCUSSION The quality assurance of fine needle aspiration biopsy in these patients with recurrent and metastatic melanoma meets the international requirements.
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Comparison of tacalcitol ointment with short-contact dithranol therapy in the treatment of psoriasis vulgaris: a randomized multicentre, open prospective study on efficacy and safety. J DERMATOL TREAT 2009. [DOI: 10.3109/09546639909056009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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[Autologous bone marrow-derived stem cell therapy in patients with severe peripheral arterial disorder]. Orv Hetil 2008; 149:531-40. [PMID: 18343769 DOI: 10.1556/oh.2008.28125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Amputation is the only current option for relief of rest pain or gangrene in patients with severe peripheral arterial disease. Up to now, no effective blood-flow enhancement therapies are available. Autologous bone marrow-derived stem cell transplantation is an arising therapy modality with an option of building new blood vessels through endothelial stem and/or progenitor cells. PATIENTS AND METHODS Five patients with severe peripheral arterial disorder were treated by autologous bone marrow-derived stem cell therapy. CD34+, CD133+ and CD45+/- cell number and ratio were determined. CD34+ cells were isolated by magnetic separation and collected into a 10 ml sample. The cell suspension was administered by local intramuscular injections (0.5-1.0 ml injections in the musculus gastrocnemius). The follow-up (before; 1, 3, 6, 9 and 12 months after the autologous bone marrow-derived stem cell therapy) based on clinical (rest pain, walking distance without pain, changes of non-healing ischaemic ulcers, ankle-brachial index) and laboratory (angiography, Color- and Laser-Doppler scan, measurement of transcutaneous oxygen tension and endothelial function test) parameters was documented and analyzed. RESULTS Improvement of pain and walking distance was observed in all five cases. In three cases the non-healing ischaemic ulcers disappeared, in one other case they became smaller and thinner, and in one case no change was realized. The average of ankle-brachial index improved significantly (before: 0.41, twelve months after: 0.83). New collaterals were detected by angiography in three patients, but duplex ultrasonography detected improvement in one patient only. Before and 1, 6 and 12 months after stem cell therapy the transcutaneous oxygen tension changed on the foot from 18.80/16.78/23.83/37.50 mmHg, and on the calf from 36.66/31.25/45.00/37.30 mmHg. The macro- and microcirculation parameters did not show improvement after 1 month, however, after 3, 6, 9 and 12 months improved parameters were recorded. Severe adverse events were not observed. In one case elevated level of serum creatinine phosphokinase, and in another case a mild form of vasculitis were detected. CONCLUSION autologous bone marrow-derived stem cell therapy with isolated CD34+ cells is effective, safe and results in sustained clinical benefit for patients with severe peripheral arterial disease.
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Abstract
Melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R) and agouti signaling protein (ASIP) play pivotal roles in the regulation of human pigmentation. We aimed to study whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the MC1R and ASIP genes contribute to the pathogenesis of the polygenic pigment skin disorder, vitiligo. The PCR-amplified, full-length MC1R gene was studied with sequence analysis, and the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR) SNP of ASIP was detected using restriction fragment length polymorphism. The allele frequency of the ASIP SNP did not show any difference between the skin type, hair color and eye color-matched 97 vitiligo patients and the 59 healthy control individuals. As one of the MC1R polymorphisms showed significantly higher incidence among fair-skinned individuals (Fitzpatrick I+II, n=140) than among dark-skinned individuals (Fitzpatrick III+IV, n=90), both vitiligo patients and controls were divided into two groups and the frequency of the MC1R alleles was studied separately in fair-skinned and dark-skinned subgroups of diseased and healthy groups. C478T, one of the MC1R SNPs studied in 108 fair-skinned vitiligo patients and in 70 fair-skinned healthy control individuals, showed a significant difference (P=0.0262, odds ratio [95% confidence interval]=3.6 [0.0046-0.1003]) in allele frequency between the two groups: the allele frequency was higher in the control group, suggesting protection against vitiligo. Computer prediction of antigenicity has revealed that the Arg160Trp amino acid change caused by this SNP results in a decrease in antigenicity of the affected peptide epitope.
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Treatment of recalcitrant venous leg ulcers with autologous keratinocytes in fibrin sealant: a multinational randomized controlled clinical trial. Wound Repair Regen 2007; 15:308-15. [PMID: 17537117 DOI: 10.1111/j.1524-475x.2007.00231.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In a multicenter trial, the effect of a commercially available combination of autologous keratinocytes (3-6 x 10(6)/mL) with fibrin sealant (Tissucol Duo S Immuno, Baxter Hyland Immuno) on the healing of recalcitrant venous leg ulcers (duration >3 months) was compared with standard care. The primary endpoint was time to healing, and the secondary endpoint was number of healed ulcers in both groups. Both groups received compression therapy with short-stretch bandages. Forty-four (38.3%) of the 116 patients who had BioSeed-S treatment achieved complete healing of the target ulcer compared with 24 (22.4%) of 109 patients who received standard treatment. The advantage for treatment with BioSeed-S over standard treatment was statistically significant (chi-square test: p=0.0106). Time to complete healing of ulcers: the log-rank test for equality over strata revealed a superiority of treatment with BioSeed-S+compression (median: 176 days) over compression+standard care (median >201 days) (p<0.0001). This study, to date the largest multicenter study with autologous keratinocytes, provides evidence for its efficacy in the treatment of patients with therapy-resistant chronic venous leg ulcers.
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Clinical and Laboratory Examinations in the Subgroups of Chronic Urticaria. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2007; 144:217-25. [PMID: 17579280 DOI: 10.1159/000103995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2006] [Accepted: 03/14/2007] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aetiology of chronic urticaria is heterogeneous. Physical urticaria (PU) is estimated at around 35%, autoimmune urticaria (AIU) at 25% and chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) at 35% of all chronic urticaria cases. METHODS Differences in clinical and laboratory parameters among AIU, PU and CIU groups were examined. AIU was diagnosed if the basophil CD63 assay was positive. Demographic data, severity of symptoms and association with allergic and autoimmune diseases were analysed by the aid of a questionnaire. Immunoassays were carried out and the effectiveness of therapy was also investigated. RESULTS Concerning the urticaria score, AIU patients had significantly higher total urticaria scores than patients with CIU (p = 0.013), dermatographic urticaria (p = 0.05) or cholinergic urticaria (p = 0.038). Between CIU and dermatographic urticaria and between CIU and cholinergic urticaria patients, we found insignificant differences in the urticaria score (p = 0.707 and p = 0.336, respectively). AIU was more frequently associated with autoimmune diseases in the personal history (p < 0.001) and with other types of urticaria in the family history (p < 0.001). Also, anti-thyroid antibodies were more frequently detected in the AIU group. Antihistamine therapy was less effective in the AIU group (12.8%) than in the PU (70.3%) and CIU groups (68.6%), but there were no significant differences between the CIU and PU groups regarding the effectiveness of antihistamine therapy. CONCLUSION The autoimmune subgroup represents the most severe form of chronic urticaria. On the other hand, there were no significant differences between the CIU and PU groups neither in urticaria scores nor in response to antihistamine therapy.
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Analysis of Components of the CD14/TLR System on Leukocytes of Patients with Atopic Dermatitis. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2007; 143:177-84. [PMID: 17284926 DOI: 10.1159/000099309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2006] [Accepted: 11/20/2006] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atopic dermatitis (AD) is frequently associated with skin infections that may be a consequence of an impaired function of the innate immune response. Conversely, the frequent bacterial colonization may also influence the systemic immune reactions, including the Toll-like receptor (TLR) system, through the translocation of bacterial components into the circulation. Therefore, we characterized phenotypic and functional properties of the TLR system in patients with extrinsic and intrinsic AD. METHODS The absolute number of surface CD14, TLR2, TLR4 and CD180 and the CD14-mediated uptake of bodipy-labeled endotoxin and bacteria by whole blood leukocytes was studied by flow cytometry. We measured the serum soluble CD14 concentration by an inhibitory flow cytometric method. RESULTS We observed a significant overexpression of TLR2 and TLR4 on monocytes, TLR2 and CD14 on granulocytes and CD180 on lymphocytes of intrinsic AD patients compared to healthy controls. The serum soluble CD14 was not different in the intrinsic AD patients, while it was diminished in the extrinsic AD group compared to the controls. The endotoxin and bacterium uptake showed no differences. CONCLUSIONS The observed upregulation of CD14, TLR2, TLR4 and CD180 on peripheral leukocytes seems to be rather a consequence than the cause of the repeated bacterial infections in AD.
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Effects of autologous bone marrow derived CD34+ stem cells on the left ventricular function following myocardial infarction. Orv Hetil 2007; 148:243-9. [PMID: 17344174 DOI: 10.1556/oh.2007.27994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
A kísérletes és az utóbbi 5 évben végzett humán klinikai vizsgálatok szerint a csontvelői eredetű sejtek részt vesznek a miokardiális infarktus gyógyulási folyamatában. Számos kisebb klinikai vizsgálatban mutattak ki enyhe vagy mérsékelt fokú kedvező hatást a miokardiális infarktus után intracoronariásan beadott csontvelői eredetű őssejtekkel. Mivel a legtöbb eddigi vizsgálatban mononukleáris frakciót használtak, a sejtpopuláció sokfélesége miatt nem volt ismert, hogy melyik a hatásos szubpopuláció. 8 miokardiális infarktust szenvedett, csökkent bal kamra funkciójú betegben vizsgáltuk az akut coronaria esemény után 12 ± 1 nappal intracoronariásan végzett CD34+ saját csontvelői őssejt beültetés biztonságosságát és hatékonyságát. 2D-echocardiographia, FDG-PET és MIBI-SPECT vizsgálatot végeztünk a beültetés előtt és 6 hónappal azt követően. A 6 hónapos követés során szignifikánsan javult a globális bal kamra funkció (alap EF 37,3 ± 2,9%, sejt kezelés után 44,8 ± 4,1%; p = 0,0041) és a regionális viabilitás / metabolizmus (17,6 ± 13,5%-kal; p < 0,05). A szívizom elhalt részének perfúziójában nem szignifikáns tendenciózus növekedést észleltünk. Eredményeinkkel elsőként mutattuk ki, hogy a CD34+ csontvelői sejt szubpopuláció javítja a bal kamra funkciót és a metabolizmust miokardiális infarktust követően.
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[Questions of dermatoinfectology in the practice]. Orv Hetil 2006; 147:1877-83. [PMID: 17111649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The importance of bacterial, viral and fungal diseases has significantly increased during the past decades. The reasons are numerous, but the most important ones are as follows: appearance of new variance of microbes, appearance and spread of antibiotic resistant bacterial strains, and increasing number of patients with various degree of immunodeficiency. For such reasons we consider extremely important to overview and upgrade our current knowledge and practice regarding to these diseases. This manuscript will discuss the hottest practical questions of dermato-infectology.
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MESH Headings
- Antifungal Agents/therapeutic use
- Dermatomycoses/drug therapy
- Dermatomycoses/epidemiology
- Dermatomycoses/physiopathology
- Dermatomycoses/transmission
- Global Health
- HIV Infections/epidemiology
- HIV Infections/physiopathology
- HIV Infections/transmission
- Humans
- Risk Factors
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Bacterial/epidemiology
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Bacterial/transmission
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Viral/epidemiology
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Viral/transmission
- Skin Diseases, Bacterial/epidemiology
- Skin Diseases, Bacterial/physiopathology
- Skin Diseases, Bacterial/transmission
- Skin Diseases, Viral/epidemiology
- Skin Diseases, Viral/physiopathology
- Skin Diseases, Viral/transmission
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Role of acellular dermal matrix allograft in minimal invasive coverage of deep burn wound with bone exposed--case report and histological evaluation. Int Wound J 2006; 3:51-8. [PMID: 16650210 PMCID: PMC7951576 DOI: 10.1111/j.1742-4801.2006.00175.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
A sandwich graft was applied to the debrided cortical bone layer of the tibia in the case of a 72-year-old male patient with full-thickness necrotic burn injury. The combined graft consisted of a dermal template material and autologous split thickness skin graft. After application, the graft was found totally accepted and provided good functionality with acceptable appearance. Histopathologic evaluation revealed a complete take with revascularisation of the implant. Supporting lamellar bony trabecules were also seen in the deep dermal dermis representing a connection to the underlying bone. The use of the dermal matrix in deep burn exposing the bone provides a satisfactory functional result and good cosmetic appearance.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibodies directed to the alpha subunit of the high affinity IgE receptor and the IgE molecule are proposed to be of pathogenetic relevance in a group of patients with chronic urticaria (CU). The diagnosis of autoimmune chronic urticaria (ACU) is difficult; the autologous serum skin test (ASST) seems to be a useful screening test, but reliable, additional confirmatory methods are needed. OBJECTIVES To assess the diagnostic value of a modified serum-induced basophil activation test, the CD63 expression assay, in the diagnosis of ACU by comparing the results of the CD63 assay with the results of the histamine release (HR) test, the ASST and serum levels of soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L). METHODS Using basophils from an atopic (DA) and a nonatopic (DNA) donor the activity of sera of 72 patients with CU were measured in HR assay by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and in CD63 expression assay by flow cytometry. An ASST was carried out in all patients; in 30 of the 72 patients sCD40L was detected and correlations were derived between the different assays. Sera of 20 normal controls and 26 patients with systemic autoimmune diseases were also tested in the HR assay and in the CD63 expression assay. RESULTS Histamine-releasing activity was detected in the sera of 51% (DA) and 32% (DNA) of CU patients and 57% (DA) and 28% (DNA) of sera upregulated CD63 expression on the surface of basophils from the different donors. There was a significant correlation between the HR and the CD63 assays carried out on both donors, but the ASST showed a strong correlation with the HR assay only for basophils from the DA. The serum level of sCD40L was significantly higher in patients with CU compared with controls, but the difference between the autoimmune and the nonautoimmune groups was not significant. CONCLUSIONS The CD63 expression assay seems to be a reliable functional test in the diagnosis of ACU, particularly if highly sensitive donor basophils are used, but the determination of the sCD40L serum level was not sufficient to differentiate between the autoimmune and the nonautoimmune patient groups.
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CD44, but not l-selectin, is critically involved in leucocyte migration into the skin in a murine model of allergic dermatitis. Exp Dermatol 2005; 14:700-8. [PMID: 16098130 DOI: 10.1111/j.0906-6705.2005.00348.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
CD44 and l-selectin (CD62L) are major adhesion receptors that mediate leucocyte recruitment at inflammatory sites and lymph nodes, by supporting cell rolling under blood flow. Both CD44 and CD62L have been implicated in inflammatory skin disorders, but their specific involvement in an immediate-type allergic reaction remains uncertain. We used mice deficient in CD44 or CED62L or both in order to determine whether one or both of these molecules were required for leucocyte extravasation in an atopic dermatitis-like allergic response. Wild-type (WT) mice and mice deficient in CD44, CD62L or both were immunized with ovalbumin (OVA). Inflammatory reaction in the ear was elicited once by means of intradermal injection of OVA. Effective sensitization of CD62L knockout (KO) mice required intraperitoneal antigen injection; however, OVA-specific T helper 2 (Th2)-type immune responses and IgE production in mice lacking CD44, CD62L or both were comparable to those in WT mice following intraperitoneal immunization. We employed intravital videomicroscopy to monitor the recruitment of fluorescence-labelled leucocytes to the ear tissue following challenge with OVA. The number of adherent leucocytes was significantly reduced in CD44 KO and CD44/CD62L double KO mice, indicating that CD44 was involved in firm adhesion, the committed step of leucocyte extravasation. Histology of the OVA-challenged ears showed a diminished leucocyte infiltration in the ears of CD44 KO and double KO mice. The results of our study demonstrate that CD44, but not CD62L, is required for leucocyte extravasation during a Th2-type inflammatory response.
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[Kaposi's sarcoma]. Orv Hetil 2005; 146:2047-55. [PMID: 16259333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
In recent years large amounts of findings have accumulated about Kaposi's sarcoma, a virus induced angioproliferative disorder appearing in four clinical forms: classical, epidemic, endemic and iatrogenic, as it has been in focus of not only from the dermatologic but also from the viral tumorgenesis perspective. The common characteristics are the histopathological appearance, the causative role of the human herpesvirus 8 and the similar clinical picture (bluish-red macules, papules, and nodes). Frequency of the distinguished clinical forms differs with geographical location. Viruses, genetic -, and environmental factors have been shown to play a role in the pathomechanism of the disease, of which the most important is the human herpesvirus-8. The mechanisms by which viral proteins and virus infection enhance tumorgenesis and alter immune functions directed at cells have been studied in detail. During the initiation of tumorgenesis, virus induced viral and host cell products (cytokines, receptors and oncogens) initiate inflammatory and angiogenic polyclonal cell proliferation, which later, by the synergistic action of other viruses and/or environmental factors, give rise to malignant proliferation and allow the selected cell to clonally expand and behave like a true malignant tumor. In light of newly published results the authors not only present the clinical appearances and summarize diagnostic possibilities and the pathomechanism of the disease, but also give a thorough overview of the therapeutic tools of Kaposi's sarcoma, and share their experiences obtained during the follow-up of classical Kaposi's sarcoma patients.
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MESH Headings
- AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections/diagnosis
- AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections/therapy
- Antiviral Agents/therapeutic use
- Diagnosis, Differential
- Herpesvirus 8, Human/genetics
- Herpesvirus 8, Human/immunology
- Herpesvirus 8, Human/isolation & purification
- Humans
- Immunocompromised Host
- Incidence
- Oncogene Proteins/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Kaposi/diagnosis
- Sarcoma, Kaposi/drug therapy
- Sarcoma, Kaposi/epidemiology
- Sarcoma, Kaposi/metabolism
- Sarcoma, Kaposi/pathology
- Sarcoma, Kaposi/therapy
- Serologic Tests
- Sex Distribution
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Viral/diagnosis
- Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Viral/therapy
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Sporotrichoid cutaneous Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in a child. Acta Derm Venereol 2005; 85:375-6. [PMID: 16191873 DOI: 10.1080/00015550510030096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/30/2022] Open
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Prevalence of human herpesvirus-8 infection in HIV-positive patients with and without Kaposi's sarcoma in Hungary. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 43:265-8. [PMID: 15681157 DOI: 10.1016/j.femsim.2004.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2004] [Revised: 08/29/2004] [Accepted: 08/31/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) infection of 130 Hungarian HIV-positive individuals with or without Kaposi's sarcoma was investigated from 158 serum and 122 peripheral blood samples using anti-latency-associated nuclear antigen (LANA) indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA), recombinant orf65 and orfK8.1 antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs), Western blot assays and orf26 specific nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The overall prevalence of HHV-8 infection was found to be 31.5% (41/130) among the Hungarian HIV-positive patients. This seroprevalence rate is 7-11-fold higher than that of healthy HIV-negative blood donors in Hungary. The highest prevalence of HHV-8 infection (36.1%, 35/97) was observed in homo- or bisexual patients. Similar to the serologic results, HHV-8 DNA was not always detectable in all serial samples previously shown to be positive for HHV-8 DNA.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the intracellular and soluble cytokine levels and T cell subsets in peripheral blood of patients with active and inactive polymyositis and dermatomyositis. METHODS The frequencies of T and B lymphocytes, T helper (Th), and T cytotoxic (Tc) cells and of interferon gamma (IFNgamma), interleukin (IL)4, and IL10 expression of CD4+ or CD8+ cells were determined by flow cytometry. The concentrations of soluble cytokines were measured with commercial enzyme linked immunosorbent assays. RESULTS In active dermatomyositis there was a decreased percentage of T (CD3+) lymphocytes and Tc (CD8+) lymphocytes, decreased IFNgamma expression of CD4+ and CD8+ cells, but an increase in B and IL4 producing CD4+ lymphocyte frequencies. These prominent changes disappeared in the inactive stage of the disease. In polymyositis no significant change in these lymphocyte subsets or in intracellular cytokine expression could be detected in either the active or the inactive form. The frequency of IL4+/IFNgamma+ Th cells was calculated and a significantly increased Th2/Th1 frequency was found in active dermatomyositis, and a decreased frequency in inactive dermatomyositis, compared with the control population. CONCLUSIONS There appears to be a difference between polymyositis and dermatomyositis in the level of peripheral blood lymphocytes and their intracellular cytokine content. These findings provide further evidence for a difference in the pathogenesis of polymyositis and dermatomyositis.
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Ultraviolet-A1 phototherapy modulates Th1/Th2 and Tc1/Tc2 balance in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2005; 44:925-31. [PMID: 15827034 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keh643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Ultraviolet-A1 (UVA1) phototherapy is effective for a variety of dermatological diseases. We examined the effectiveness and reliability of low-dose UVA1 phototherapy (60 kJ/m2/treatment) in patients suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). We studied the changes in immunological parameters. METHODS The patients received a 9-week course of phototherapy according to the following regimen: five times a week during the first 3 weeks, three times a week during the second 3 weeks and twice during the last 3 weeks. Among other things, we analysed the proportions of T helper 1 (Th1), Th2, T cytotoxic (Tc1) and Tc2 cell populations in the peripheral blood of patients by flow cytometric detection of intracytoplasmic interferon gamma (IFN-gamma) and interleukin 4 (IL-4). RESULTS Our study showed the improvement of clinical symptoms determined by the subjective clinical disease activity scoring and the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI). By the end of UVA1 phototherapy, the mean value of SLEDAI had decreased from 7.2+/-5.6 to 0.9+/-1.8, which was significant (P = 0.005). Immunological investigations detected a decrease in the frequency of IFN-gamma-producing Th1 and Tc1 cells and a decrease in the Th1/Th2 and Tc1/Tc2 ratios after UVA1 therapy. CONCLUSION According to the literature, IFN-gamma has a pathogenic role in the development of SLE. We observed a decreased proportion of IFN-gamma-secreting cells, which we think is presumably one of the beneficial effects of UVA1 therapy. On the basis of our study, UVA1 phototherapy does seem to be an effective adjuvant in the treatment of SLE patients.
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Basophil CD63 expression assay on highly sensitized atopic donor leucocytes-a useful method in chronic autoimmune urticaria. Br J Dermatol 2004; 151:388-96. [PMID: 15327546 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2004.06042.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The autoimmune subclass of chronic idiopathic urticaria (CU) has been characterized by the occurrence of biologically relevant IgG antibodies against the IgE molecule or the alpha chain of the high-affinity Fcepsilon receptor (FcepsilonRIalpha) on basophils and mast cells. These antibodies are usually detected by autologous serum skin testing and confirmed by histamine release studies, immunoblotting, or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, but not always. OBJECTIVES To detect autoantibodies to the FcepsilonRIalpha in sera of CU patients by a modified serum-induced basophil activation test measured by flow cytometry (FCM) and to evaluate the relationship between the in vitro functional test, the autologous serum skin test (ASST), and the serum levels of IgE, eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) and antithyroid antibodies. METHODS Sera of 30 patients with CU and 26 patients with systemic autoimmune diseases (systemic lupus erythematosus, dermatomyositis) were tested for CD63 activation marker expression on basophils by FCM. Leucocytes from two highly sensitized atopic donors (D(A1,) D(A2)) and one non-atopic donor (D(NA)) were incubated with patients' sera and double-labelled with anti-IgE and anti-CD63 antibodies. Subsequently, the percentage of CD63-expressing basophils was determined by using FCM. In all CU patients an ASST was carried out and the serum IgE, and ECP levels and antithyroid antibodies were evaluated. RESULTS Twelve patients had a positive ASST and 14 patients a positive CD63 expression assay. There was a strong correlation between the ASST and CD63 assay. Sera from patients with systemic autoimmune diseases did not raise positive CD63 expression on basophils. There was a moderate negative correlation between the occurrence of atopic serum markers (IgE, ECP) and the ability of sera to induce CD63 expression on basophil cells of D(A2) (P < 0.05). The female sex was preponderant and antithyroid antibodies were more frequent. CONCLUSIONS Our new technical observation demonstrates that basophils of highly sensitized atopic donors can be successfully used without priming with IL-3 for the in-vitro flow cytofluorimetric diagnosis of CU. With this investigation the characterization of the autoimmune origin of CU is based on an objective in vitro technique.
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D-Penicillamine-induced Pemphigus Vulgaris in a Patient with Scleroderma-Rheumatoid Arthritis Overlap Syndrome. Acta Derm Venereol 2004; 84:318-9. [PMID: 15339083 DOI: 10.1080/00015550410026399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
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Immunohistochemical Examination of P-cadherin in Bullous and Acantholytic Skin Diseases. Acta Derm Venereol 2004; 84:116-9. [PMID: 15206690 DOI: 10.1080/00015550310006842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Autoimmune blistering diseases (pemphigus vulgaris, pemphigus foliaceus, bullous pemphigoid, dermatitis herpetiformis) and certain genodermatoses with acantholysis (Darier-disease, Hailey-Hailey disease) have different aetiological factors, but all result in bulla formation and/or in acantholysis. Cadherins are Ca++-dependent cell-cell adhesion molecules which play an important role in the cellular connection between normal cells. P-cadherin is involved in the selective adhesion of epidermal cells, and is expressed only on the surfaces of the two basal layers. We examined the expression of P-cadherin in some autoimmune bullous skin diseases and Darier's disease using immunohistochemistry and found P-cadherin to be strongly upregulated. We believe the upregulation is compensatory to the primary pathophysiological events in the various bullous dermatoses.
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Association between the occurrence of the anticardiolipin IgM and mite allergen-specific IgE antibodies in children with extrinsic type of atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome. Allergy 2004; 59:164-7. [PMID: 14763929 DOI: 10.1046/j.1398-9995.2003.00367.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As the literature has only controversial data on the role of nonallergen-specific antibodies in atopic eczema dermatitis syndrome, the authors investigated the link between the occurrence of the antiphospholipid [anticardiolipin (ACL), anti-beta2-glycoprotein I] and allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies in 72 children with atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome (AEDS). METHODS The measurement of antiphospholipid antibodies was carried out by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), serum total IgE by nephelometry, and allergen-specific IgE by immunoblotting assay. The statistical analysis was carried out by Fisher's exact test and odds ratio was calculated. RESULTS Thirteen of 72 children with AEDS (mean age 8.3 years) had elevated serum levels of ACL, and eight anti-beta2-glycoprotein I antibodies. The presence of allergen-specific IgE against inhalant allergens and nutritive allergens was among eight of 13 and three of eight in the cases with elevated ACL. The ratio of patients with highly increased severity scoring of atopic dermatitis (SCORAD) index (>75) was significantly higher in the group with elevated (4/13) than in those with the normal ACL levels (2/59). There was a significant association between the appearance of mite (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus, D. farinae)-specific IgE and ACL IgM antibodies (6/13). CONCLUSION These findings show that there are significant linkage and association between the appearance of ACL IgM or the production of allergen-specific IgE against inhalant (mainly mite) allergens in children with atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome.
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Relationship between Skin Bacterial Colonization and the Occurrence of Allergen-specific and Non-Allergen-specific Antibodies in Sera of Children with Atopic Eczema/Dermatitis Syndrome. Acta Derm Venereol 2003; 84:32-6. [PMID: 15040475 DOI: 10.1080/00015550310015824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study we investigated skin bacterial colonization, allergen-specific IgE and antiphospholipid/antinuclear antibodies in 72 children with atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome (age 2-17 years). Bacteria were found on the skin in 41 cases and serological allergen-specific IgE positivity in 37. The different forms of antibodies appeared in the ratio 21/72 (33 antibodies in 21 children). The occurrence of antiphospholipid antibodies was significantly higher in the patients than in the controls. There were significantly more allergens in the group with bacterial colonization than in the group without colonization. The SCORAD index showed a significant positive association with the skin colonization. We conclude that there are significant relationships between the occurrence of Staphylococcus aureus colonization and the levels of inhalant allergen-specific IgE in children with atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome, and between the occurrence of antiphospholipid IgM positivity and atopic eczema/dermatitis syndrome.
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Role of intracellular calcium mobilization and cell-density-dependent signaling in oxidative-stress-induced cytotoxicity in HaCaT keratinocytes. J Invest Dermatol 2003; 121:88-95. [PMID: 12839568 DOI: 10.1046/j.1523-1747.2003.12329.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Peroxynitrite is a nitric-oxide-derived cytotoxic mediator produced in a broad range of inflammatory conditions, ranging from sunburn erythema to contact hypersensitivity. Our previous work has shown that in HaCaT cells the cytotoxic activity of peroxynitrite involves both apoptotic and necrotic routes with poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activation serving as a mol-ecular switch diverting the default apoptotic pathway toward necrosis. Nonetheless, keratinocytes are regarded as highly resistant toward environmental noxa including oxidative stress. We set out to investigate the possible role of two parameters, intracellular calcium mobilization and high cell density, in protecting HaCaT cells from peroxynitrite/oxidative-stress-induced cytotoxicity. First we characterized the effect of peroxynitrite on the calcium homeostasis of HaCaT cells and demonstrated that both authentic peroxynitrite and the peroxynitrite generating compound 3-morpholino-sydnonimine triggered an elevation in intracellular calcium levels. Moreover, we established that treatment of cells with the cell-permeable calcium chelator BAPTA-AM provided significant cytoprotection against peroxynitrite- and hydrogen-peroxide-induced cytotoxicity. Furthermore, when cells reached confluence they were highly resistant to the toxic effects of peroxynitrite, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide. The resistance to oxidative stress provided by calcium chelation and high cell density involved inhibiting the activation of both poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase and caspases. Our data may provide an explanation for the resistance to oxidative stress of superficial, highly differentiated keratinocytes and indicate that basal proliferative keratinocytes are sensitive in vivo targets of oxidative stress injury.
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Tumor cells expressing membrane-bound tumor necrosis factor activate macrophages and have a compromised growth in immunosuppressed and immunodeficient mice. Cancer Lett 2003; 196:49-56. [PMID: 12860289 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3835(03)00181-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha producing tumors as vaccines were demonstrated to induce a therapeutic anti-tumor immune response, but their clinical use is limited by the toxicity of soluble TNF. We investigated the growth characteristics and immunomodulatory properties of HeLa cells producing an uncleavable transmembrane form of TNF (preTNF). The growth of the transformed tumors was compromised in both immunosuppressed and severe combined immunodeficient mice; no signs of TNF toxicity were detected. Macrophages co-cultured with the transformed cells showed increased phagocytosis and cytokine production, indicating that activated macrophages may be the mediators of the anti-tumor effect. preTNF producing tumor cells are promising safe anti-tumor vaccine candidates.
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Abstract
Several disorders are known to be associated with altered Thelper1/Thelper2 (T(H)1/T(H)2) cytokine balance. Psoriasis is characterized by increased systemic and local production of T(H)1 and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Furthermore recent data indicate the dominant presence of T(H)1 lymphocytes in the circulation and T(H)1 and Tcytotoxic1 (T(C)1) cells in lesional skin of psoriatic patients. In order to assess the systemic T(H)1/T(H)2 imbalance in psoriasis most of the studies so far tested isolated peripheral mononuclear cells. As a new approach we applied a whole blood flow cytometric assay to determine the rate of circulating T(H)1/T(H)2 and T(C)1/Tcytotoxic2 (T(C)2) lymphocytes based on their intracellular IFN-gamma, IL-4 and IL-10 expression. Besides, serum levels of these cytokines were determined in healthy controls and psoriatic patients by commercial ELISAs. In psoriatic patients we found significantly (P<0.02) increased rates of CD4(+)/IFN-gamma(+) lymphocytes (30.3+/-8.8%) while the percent of CD4(+)/IL-4(+) cells (0.37+/-0.31%) were significantly (P<0.03) lower compared to healthy controls (CD4(+)/IFN-gamma(+): 20.1+/-7.3% and CD4(+)/IL-4(+): 0.78+/-0.44%). The IL-10-positive CD4(+) and CD8(+) cells also had higher rate in psoriasis, but the difference between patients and controls was not significant, similarly to the rate of CD8(+)/IFN-gamma(+) and CD8(+)/IL-4(+) lymphocytes. Beside cellular expression, serum IFN-gamma levels were also significantly higher (control: 4.9+/-6.4 pg/ml; psoriatic patients: 35.9+/-47.0 pg/ml; P<0.05). Our results provide further evidence for an altered T(H)1/T(H)2 balance in psoriasis measured in non-separated whole blood T cells.
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Increased frequency of intracellular interleukin (IL)-13 and IL-10, but not IL-4, expressing CD4+ and CD8+ peripheral T cells of patients with atopic dermatitis. Br J Dermatol 2002; 147:1135-41. [PMID: 12452862 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2133.2002.05013.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A number of studies exist demonstrating the increased expression of type 2 cytokines and decreased capacity to produce interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). OBJECTIVES To clarify the results of recent studies concerning the role of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 in PBMCs of AD patients, we analysed the activation status of lymphocyte subpopulations. METHODS We measured the intracellular expression and serum levels of certain type 1 and type 2 cytokines, using cell surface and intracellular cytokine staining, flow cytometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay techniques. RESULTS The frequency of IL-10 and IL-13 producing CD4+ and CD8+ T cells was significantly higher in patients with AD, while the frequency of IFN-gamma secreting helper and cytotoxic T cells was significantly lower in patients with AD than in control subjects. The serum levels of IL-10 and IL-13 were also significantly increased. There were no significant differences observed between the experimental groups in the frequency of IL-4 producing CD4+ and CD8+ cells. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates a type 2 cytokine production in the CD4+ and CD8+ T cells of AD patients, which is characterized by an elevated IL-13, but not by IL-4 secretion, and by an increased level of the immunoregulatory IL-10, which can contribute to a decrease in IFN-gamma expression.
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TERBINAFINE-TREATMENT OF ONYCHOMYCOSIS IN PATIENTS TAKING ORAL ANTIDIABETIC DRUGS - A MULTICENTRE TRIAL. Mycoses 2002. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0507.2002.tb04593.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Cimetidine and a tamoxifen derivate reduce tumour formation in SCID mice xenotransplanted with a human melanoma cell line. Melanoma Res 2002; 12:231-40. [PMID: 12140379 DOI: 10.1097/00008390-200206000-00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Histamine is produced by many cells expressing histidine decarboxylase (HDC), the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of histamine. Since melanoma cells and tissue contain relatively large amounts of histamine, the functional significance of histamine was examined using specific antihistamines in vitro and in vivo in the human melanoma cell line HT168 and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice. It was shown that the H2 receptor antagonist cimetidine when combined with N, N-diethyl-2-[4-(phenylmethyl)phenoxy]-ethanamine-HCl (DPPE), a tamoxifen derivate, inhibits the proliferation of HT168 cells. Furthermore, it is suggested that there is a factor(s) that interferes with the exponential growth of HT168 cells xenografted to immunodeficient mice, and cimetidine and DPPE together significantly influence this factor(s). This combination of antihistamines also increases the survival of human melanoma-grafted mice. These changes are accompanied by enhanced infiltration of interferon-gamma- producing mouse macrophages into the tumour tissue. These findings suggest that two different mechanisms are probably acting concordantly: direct inhibition of tumour cell proliferation by the H2 receptor antagonists, and activation of the local immune response characterized by interferon-gamma production. These findings may help to elucidate the possibility of a rationally designed antihistamine strategy in melanoma therapy.
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Abstract
In the last decade it has become well established that in the skin, nitric oxide (NO), a diffusable gas, mediates various physiologic functions ranging from the regulation of cutaneous blood flow to melanogenesis. If produced in excess, NO combines with superoxide anion to form peroxynitrite (ONOO-), a cytotoxic oxidant that has been made responsible for tissue injury during shock, inflammation and ischemia-reperfusion. The opposite effects of NO and ONOO- on various cellular processes may explain the 'double-edged sword' nature of NO depending on whether or not cellular conditions favour peroxynitrite formation. Peroxynitrite has been shown to activate the nuclear nick sensor enzyme, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). Overactivation of PARP depletes the cellular stores of NAD+, the substrate of PARP, and the ensuing 'cellular energetic catastrophy' results in necrotic cell death. Whereas the role of NO in numerous skin diseases including wound healing, burn injury, psoriasis, irritant and allergic contact dermatitis, ultraviolet (UV) light-induced sunburn erythema and the control of skin infections has been extensively documented, the intracutaneous role of peroxynitrite and PARP has not been fully explored. We have recently demonstrated peroxynitrite production, DNA breakage and PARP activation in a murine model of contact hypersensitivity, and propose that the peroxynitrite-PARP route represents a common pathway in the pathomechanism of inflammatory skin diseases. Here we briefly review the role of NO in skin pathology and focus on the possible roles played by peroxynitrite and PARP in various skin diseases.
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[The role of PET scan in the diagnosis of malignant melanoma]. Orv Hetil 2002; 143:1272-5. [PMID: 12077913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Comprehensive, accurate staging has a critical role in planning rational treatment strategies for patients with malignant melanoma (MM). In the present study the authors investigate the value of FDG PET in staging and restaging based on the investigation of 37 high-risk MM patients and compare the results with the one obtained by conventional imaging techniques (X-ray, US, CT, MR and bone scan). Thirty-nine whole body PET scans were carried out. The authors concluded that FDG PET had the highest sensitivity among the imaging methods in detecting distant metastases of MM.
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Terbinafine (Lamisil) treatment of toenail onychomycosis in patients with insulin-dependent and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus: a multicentre trial. Br J Dermatol 2002; 146:254-60. [PMID: 11903236 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2133.2002.04606.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes mellitus (DM) affects an estimated 175 million people world-wide. Approximately one-third of patients with DM have toenail onychomycosis. OBJECTIVES To determine the efficacy and safety of terbinafine treatment of toenail onychomycosis in patients with DM receiving insulin and/or oral antidiabetic agents. Special interest was focused on potential drug interactions with oral hypoglycaemic substances. METHODS In a multicentre trial, patients suffering from insulin-dependent DM (IDDM) or non- insulin-dependent DM (NIDDM) with toenail onychomycosis were treated for 12 weeks with oral terbinafine 250 mg daily and followed up to 48 weeks. In addition to clinical, mycological and laboratory investigations, blood glucose levels were monitored. RESULTS At the end of the trial (week 48), a mycological cure rate of 73% was achieved. The rates of clinical cure and complete cure (mycological cure plus clinical cure) were 57% and 48%, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference between the NIDDM and IDDM groups with respect to the cure rates (P > 0.05). No hypoglycaemic episode was reported and none of the patients had hypoglycaemia during the treatment phase. CONCLUSIONS With excellent cure rates and a good tolerability profile, terbinafine should continue to be a drug of choice for the treatment of toenail onychomycosis in the rising number of NIDDM patients receiving multiple medication.
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Detection of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activation in oxidatively stressed cells and tissues using biotinylated NAD substrate. J Histochem Cytochem 2002; 50:91-8. [PMID: 11748298 DOI: 10.1177/002215540205000110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) is a nuclear enzyme activated by DNA damage. Activated PARP cleaves NAD(+) into nicotinamide and (ADP-ribose) and polymerizes the latter on nuclear acceptor proteins. Over-activation of PARP by reactive oxygen and nitrogen intermediates represents a pathogenetic factor in various forms of inflammation, shock, and reperfusion injury. Using a novel commercially available substrate, 6-biotin-17-nicotinamide-adenine-dinucleotide (bio-NAD(+)), we have developed three applications, enzyme cytochemistry, enzyme histochemistry, and cell ELISA, to detect the activation of PARP in oxidatively stressed cells and tissues. With the novel assay we were able to detect basal and hydrogen peroxide-induced PARP activity in J774 macrophages. We also observed that mitotic cells display remarkably elevated PARP activity. Hydrogen peroxide-induced PARP activation could also be detected in wild-type peritoneal macrophages but not in macrophages from PARP-deficient mice. Application of hydrogen peroxide to the skin of mice also induced bio-NAD(+) incorporation in the keratinocyte nuclei. Hydrogen peroxide-induced PARP activation and its inhibition by pharmacological PARP inhibitors could be detected in J774 cells with the ELISA assay that showed good correlation with the traditional [(3)H]-NAD incorporation method. The bio-NAD(+) assays represent sensitive, specific, and non-radioactive alternatives for detection of PARP activation.
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Chromosomal imbalances in primary and metastatic melanomas revealed by comparative genomic hybridization. CYTOMETRY 2001; 46:222-32. [PMID: 11514955 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.1131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Characteristic genetic changes underlying the metastatic progression of malignant melanoma is incompletely understood. The goal of our study was to explore specific chromosomal alterations associated with the aggressive behavior of this neoplasm. Comparative genomic hybridization was performed to screen and compare genomic imbalances present in primary and metastatic melanomas. Sixteen primary and 12 metastatic specimens were analyzed. We found that the pattern of chromosomal aberrations is similar in the two subgroups; however, alterations present only in primary and/or metastatic tumors were also discovered. The mean number of genetic changes was 6.3 (range 1-14) in primary and 7.8 (range 1-16) in metastatic lesions. Frequent losses involved 9p and 10q, whereas gains most often occurred at 1q, 6p, 7q, and 8q. Distinct, high-level amplifications were mapped to 1p12-p21 and 1p22-p31 in both tumor types. Amplification of 4q12-q13.1, 7q21.3-qter and 8q23-qter were detected only in primary tumors. The 20q13-qter amplicon was present in a metastatic tumor. The number of genetic alterations were significantly higher in primary tumors which developed metastases within one year after the surgery compared to tumors without metastasis during this time period. Fluorescence in situ hybridization with centromeric and locus-specific probes was applied to validate CGH results on a subset of tumors. Comparison of FISH and CGH data gave good correlation. The aggressive behavior of melanoma is associated with accumulation of multiple genetic alterations. Chromosome regions, which differ in the primary and metastatic lesions, may represent potential targets to identify metastases-related chromosomal alterations.
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Prevalence and age distribution of human herpesvirus-8 specific antibodies in Hungarian blood donors. J Med Virol 2001; 64:526-30. [PMID: 11468739 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.1081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Sera of blood donors were investigated by a peptide ELISA and indirect immunofluorescence assay to assess the prevalence of HHV-8 infection in the Hungarian population. A 14 amino acid long synthetic oligopeptide from the carboxyterminus of orf65/small virus capsid antigen was used as antigen in the ELISA. ELISA results were confirmed by recombinant orf65 antigen Western blot. Antibodies to the latent nuclear antigen were detected by the immunofluorescence assay. Nine of 12 sera obtained from patients with classical Kaposi sarcoma were reactive by ELISA whereas all were positive by immunofluorescence. Four of 482 (0.83%) healthy blood donors had anti-orf65 peptide antibodies and 17/1089 (1.56%) had antibodies to the latent nuclear antigen. In a group of children ages 1-14 years, antibodies to the latent nuclear antigen (0/29) were not detected. The prevalence of antibodies to the latent nuclear antigen showed a moderate but significant increase in correlation with senescence. In the Kaposi sarcoma patients, the titre of antibodies to the latent nuclear antigen was significantly higher than in the healthy seropositive donors. The overall HHV-8 seroprevalence by the two assays was 2.28% (11/482) in the Hungarian blood donor group.
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Peroxynitrite production, DNA breakage, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activation in a mouse model of oxazolone-induced contact hypersensitivity. J Invest Dermatol 2001; 117:74-80. [PMID: 11442752 DOI: 10.1046/j.0022-202x.2001.01388.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Peroxynitrite-induced poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activation has been implicated in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory conditions. Here we have investigated whether peroxynitrite and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase may play a role in the pathophysiology of the elicitation phase of contact hypersensitivity. We have detected nitrotyrosine, DNA breakage, and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activation in the epidermis of mice in an oxazolone-induced contact hypersensitivity model. As tyrosine nitration is mostly mediated by peroxynitrite, a nitric-oxide-derived cytotoxic oxidant capable of causing DNA breakage, we have applied peroxynitrite directly on mouse skin and showed poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activation in keratinocytes and in some scattered dermal cells. We have also investigated the cellular effects of peroxynitrite in HaCaT cells, a human keratinocyte cell line. We found that peroxynitrite inhibited cell proliferation and at higher concentrations also caused cytotoxicity. Peroxynitrite activates poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase in HaCaT cells and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase activation contributes to peroxynitrite-induced cytotoxicity, as indicated by the cytoprotective effect of the poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor 3-aminobenzamide. The cytoprotective effect of 3-aminobenzamide cannot be attributed to inhibition of apoptosis, as apoptotic parameters (caspase activation and DNA fragmentation) were not reduced in the presence of 3-aminobenzamide in peroxynitrite-treated cells. Moreover, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibition by 3-aminobenzamide dose-dependently reduced interferon-induced intercellular adhesion molecule 1 expression as well as interleukin-1beta-induced interleukin-8 expression. Our results indicate that peroxynitrite and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase regulate keratinocyte function and death in contact hypersensitivity.
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UVB light and 17-beta-estradiol have different effects on the mRNA expression of Ro/SSA and La/SSB autoantigens in HaCaT cells. Arch Dermatol Res 2001; 293:275-82. [PMID: 11480586 DOI: 10.1007/s004030100227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Antibodies produced against the Ro/SSA and La/SSB autoantigens are not only of diagnostic value but they may even play a role in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases (Sjögren's syndrome, subacute cutaneous lupus erythematosus, neonatal lupus erythematosus and systemic lupus erythematosus). Among other factors, ultraviolet (UV) radiation and also the hormonal milieu are well-known cofactors in the pathogenesis of these autoimmune diseases. The goal of our research was to study the possible alterations in mRNA levels of three different Ro antigens and that of two La species produced by alternative splicing in transformed human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) after UVB irradiation and after 17-beta-estradiol treatment. The polymerase chain reaction technique was used to determine the mRNA levels of the Ro and La species after 24, 48, and 72 h of irradiation. The mRNA levels of calreticulin increased as a function of time after UV irradiation but the mRNA levels of 52 kDa and 60 kDa Ro mRNAs were unaltered. After treating the cells with 17-beta-estradiol, there was no change observed in the levels of Ro mRNAs or La exon 1 mRNA, but a gradual decrease was noted in the mRNA levels of La exon 1'. The importance of alterations in the ratio of La exon 1 to exon 1' is supported by the observations in patients with Sjögren's syndrome, and our results strengthen the notion that the Ro and La antigens participate in the pathogenesis of different autoimmune diseases.
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Abstract
The immunogenic envelope antigen gp35-37 of human herpesvirus-8 (HHV-8) is encoded by orfK8.1. An ELISA is described using streptavidin capture of bacterially expressed and biotinylated recombinant K8.1 antigen. The antigen capture strategy provides a simple and reliable method, which does not require high yield production and purification of the recombinant antigen before the serological assay. The specificity and sensitivity of the K8.1 ELISA were validated by gp35-37 envelope antigen Western blot and anti-lytic membrane immunofluorescence assay using lytically induced HHV-8 infected BCBL-1 cells. Under the established ELISA conditions, eight of the 10 Kaposi's sarcoma patients and five of the 180 healthy blood donors had IgG antibodies to K8.1 envelope antigen.
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45
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Abstract
Using isolated cells from a spontaneously immortalized human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT) loaded with Fura-2 the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) was studied. The continuous presence of ATP induced a biphasic response in high external Ca2+. The first component reflected the release of calcium from intracellular stores since it was present after the removal of external calcium with ethylene-glycol-bis-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid (EGTA). The second phase of [Ca2+]i increase was not detectable in the absence of external calcium and raising the extracellular [Ca2+] increased the rate of rise in [Ca2+]i suggesting that it was influenced by the external environment. Furthermore, after adenosine triphosphate (ATP) had emptied the intracellular store in a calcium-free milieu, the elevation of external Ca2+ induced a secondary increase in [Ca2+]i that did not require the presence of ATP. Depleting the intracellular calcium store with a Ca-ATP-ase inhibitor (cyclopiasonic acid, 10 microM) also induced calcium entry. The depletion induced calcium entry was inhibited by econazole (100 microM). These findings indicate the presence of a calcium release activated calcium influx pathway in HaCaT keratinocytes.
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46
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Successful treatment of generalized granuloma annulare with polyethylene sheet bath PUVA. Acta Derm Venereol 1999; 79:84-5. [PMID: 10086870 DOI: 10.1080/000155599750011813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022] Open
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47
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[Human herpesvirus-8 in Hungarian blood donors and in patients with Kaposi sarcoma]. Orv Hetil 1998; 139:3001-4. [PMID: 9876459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenic role of Kaposi's sarcoma associated herpesvirus or human herpesvirus-8 in the development of Kaposi's sarcoma is widely accepted today. Here the authors report an indirect immunofluorescence assay based seroepidemiologic study. Their results indicate that 1.56% (17/1089) of the Hungarian adult population and 100% (12/12) of Kaposi's sarcoma patients have serum antibodies to HHV-8 latent nuclear antigens.
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48
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[Lymphoblast transformation colorimetry in the diagnosis of drug hypersensitivity]. Orv Hetil 1998; 139:2379-82. [PMID: 9796355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis of drug allergy has been considered to be a multistage procedure consisting of detailed history of previous medication, analysis of symptoms, laboratory tests and provocation with the supposed sensitizing drug. Many laboratory methods are used for demonstration drug allergy, but opinions differ with regard to their specificity, sensitivity and reproducibility. Lymphocyte transformation test (LTT) is considered to be a valuable in vitro method in the diagnosis of drug allergy. For evaluation of LTT we introduced a tetrazolium-based colorimetric assay (MTT). Comparison of MTT assay with 3H-Thymidine incorporation in evaluation of Phytohaemagglutinin induced LTT resulted no significant difference in the dose-response curve. During the past 3 years 315 patients were tested with LTT-MTT method; 736 lymphocyte transformation tests mainly with antibiotics, topical anesthetics and painkillers were evaluated by MTT resulting 280 positive results. Physicians requested skin tests were performed with drugs induced no in vitro lymphocyte transformation and only 8 topical reactions without general symptoms were observed. MTT method was found to be a sensitive laboratory test in evaluation of LTT performable even in routine laboratories. Its application can lead to a substantial decrease in the number of patients who must be subjected to the possible risk of in vivo tests for the determination of the sensitizing drug.
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Distinct subpopulations in HaCaT cells as revealed by the characteristics of intracellular calcium release induced by phosphoinositide-coupled agonists. Arch Dermatol Res 1998; 290:270-6. [PMID: 9681679 DOI: 10.1007/s004030050303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular calcium release induced by transient applications of phosphoinositide agonists was measured using adherent single HaCaT keratinocytes loaded with the acetoxymethyl derivative of fura-2. Application of ATP, bradykinin and formyl-Met-Leu-Phe (fMLP) resulted in a transient increase in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) with an average half-width of 40+/-21 s and a decay time constant of 15+/-10 s (mean +/- SD, n = 108), irrespective of the agonist applied. The cells could be classified into two groups: in 53% of the cells repeated stimulation brought about a progressively smaller change in [Ca2+]i (type 1 cells), whereas in the remaining cells the amplitude of the calcium transients was essentially unchanged (type 2 cells). Furthermore, calcium transients in type 1 cells had broader half-widths and slower decays. No difference was found between the agonists in respect of the characteristics of the evoked calcium transient within each subpopulation. However, bradykinin and fMLP desensitized some cells. These results indicate that the activation of the inositol trisphospate transduction pathway by different agonists induces a characteristic elevation of [Ca2+]i within a given cell. Our results demonstrate that cultured HaCaT keratinocytes are heterogeneous in respect of the calcium transients evoked by the activators of this second messenger system.
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Consistent polymerase chain reaction-single-strand conformation polymorphism pattern of human herpesvirus-8 in the course of classical Kaposi's sarcoma assumes its clonal origin. J Med Virol 1998; 54:300-4. [PMID: 9557296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
There is emerging evidence that Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV or HHV-8) has a central role in the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS). The occurrence of HHV-8 in classical KS biopsies is reported irrespective of its clinical stage (patch, plaque, nodular). HHV-8 was detected in 25 of 28 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded classical KS samples by nested polymerase chain reaction. In addition, in six patients multiple tumors were available (n = 21). Single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis of the amplicons showed uniform SSCP pattern of samples belonging to the same patient regardless of whether the KS was multiplex or developed again years after the first excision. Most of the SSCP patterns were confirmed by further sequence analysis. The presence of the same sequence variant of HHV-8 in various samples of the same patient supports the clonal origin of classical Kaposi's sarcoma.
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