[Screening of quality markers and activity verification of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma based on small molecule compound-protein interaction]

In order to solve the problem of weak correlation between quality control components and efficacy of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, this study detected the interaction between small molecular chemical components of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma and total proteins of various organs of mice by fluorescence quenching method to screen potential active components. The 27 chemical components in Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma were detected by HPLC and their deletion rates in 34 batches of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma were calculated. Combined with the principle of component effectiveness and measurability, the potential quality markers(Q-markers) of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma were screened. RAW264.7 macrophage injury model was induced by microplastics. The cell viability and nitric oxide content were detected by CCK-8 and Griess methods. The levels of inflammatory factors(TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, CRP) and oxidative stress markers(SOD, MDA, GSH) were detected by the ELISA method to verify the activity of Q-markers. It was found that the interaction strength between different chemical components and organ proteins in Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma was different, reflecting different organ selectivity and 18 active components were screened out. Combined with the signal-to-noise ratio of the HPLC chromatographic peaks and between-run stability of the components, seven chemical components such as liquiritin apioside, liquiritin, isoliquiritin apioside, isoliquiritin, liquiritigenin, isoliquiritigenin and ammonium glycyrrhizinate were finally screened as potential Q-markers of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma. In vitro experiments showed that Q-markers of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma could dose-dependently alleviate RAW264.7 cell damage induced by microplastics, inhibit the secretion of inflammatory factors, and reduce oxidative stress. Under the same total dose, the combination of various chemical components could synergistically enhance anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects compared with the single use. This study identified Q-markers related to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, which can provide a reference for improving the quality control standards of Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma.

[Research progress on signaling pathways related to drug research in proliferative vitreoretinopathy]

Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is an avascular fibroproliferative disease that occurs in the retina. The main pathological changes are the proliferation and traction of retinal pigment epithelial cells (RPE) and glial cells on the vitreous and retina. Basic research has confirmed that the formation of PVR is related to multiple signaling pathways, including NK-κB signaling pathway, MAPK and its downstream signaling pathways, JAK/STAT signaling pathway, PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, thrombin and its receptor pathway, TGF-β and downstream signaling pathway, North signaling pathway and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, etc. This review summarizes the research progress of the main signaling pathways in the formation mechanism of PVR, and provides the basis and support for the research of PVR drug therapy.

[Observational study on peripapillary hyper-reflective ovoid mass-like structures in children and adolescents with myopia]

Objective: To investigate the correlation of peripapillary hyper-reflective ovoid mass-like structures (PHOMS) in children and adolescents with myopia and its correlation factors. Methods: It was a cross-sectional study. From September 2021 to January 2022, myopic children and adolescents aged 6-16 years treated in Wuhan Central Hospital and Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University with a myopic spherical equivalent (SE) ≥0.5 D were consecutively included. All patients underwent best corrected visual acuity, refraction, intraocular pressure, slit lamp microscope, axial length, fundus photography and enhanced depth imaging optical coherence tomography (EDI-OCT) examination. EDI-OCT optic disc parameter measurements included diameter, degree of tilt and shift and PHOMS height. The patients were divided into PHOMS group and non-PHOMS group according to the presence or absence of PHOMS. According to the height of PHOMS, the patients were further divided into 3 subgroups: large (>400 μm), medium (200-400 μm) and small (<200 μm). The optic disc characteristics of the PHOMS group and the non-PHOMS group and each subgroup were observed, and the correlation factors of PHOMS were analyzed. Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, chi-square test, Logistic regression analysis and Kendall's tau-b correlation coefficient were used. Results: A total of 108 patients (108 eyes) were included, including 46 males (46 eyes) and 62 females (62 eyes). There were 70 eyes (64.8%) in the PHOMS group and 38 eyes (35.2%) in the non-PHOMS group. Small PHOMS can only be detected by EDI-OCT, while medium to large PHOMS showed blurred optic disc boundaries on fundoscopy images. Univariate Logistic regression analysis showed that PHOMS was associated with age (OR=1.36, 95%CI: 1.13-1.65, P=0.001) and myopic SE (OR=4.57, 95%CI: 2.51-8.32, P<0.001), axial length (OR=2.28, 95%CI: 1.37-3.82, P=0.002), optic disc tilt (OR=3.44, 95%CI: 2.09-5.66, P<0.001), optic disc shift (OR=0.95, 95%CI: 0.93-0.98, P<0.001) and optic disc diameter (OR=0.75, 95%CI: 0.58-0.95, P=0.019). Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that the higher the myopic SE (OR=3.01, 95%CI: 1.27-7.17, P=0.013) and the greater the tilt of the optic disc (OR=4.06,95%CI:1.99-8.29,P<0.001), the higher the risk of PHOMS. Kendall's tau-b correlation coefficient analysis showed that the height of PHOMS was negatively correlated with optic disc shift (r=-0.31, P<0.001). Conclusions: PHOMS can be found in a subset of myopic children. The fundus manifestations of PHOMS of different heights are slightly different. The large myopic SE and great optic disc tilt are risk factors of PHOMS, and their magnitudes correlate with the border tissue angle.

[Comparison of therapeutic efficacy of Wuling Capsules prepared with different methods for rats with syndrome of liver Qi stagnation, spleen deficiency, and blood stasis]

Wuling Capsules is one of the commonly used drugs for the clinical treatment of chronic hepatitis B with the syndrome of liver Qi stagnation, spleen deficiency, and blood stasis. However, the present preparation method of Wuling Capsules ignores some macromolecules like polysaccharides. In this study, the influences of different ethanol concentrations in the preparation process on the extraction rates of macro-and micro-molecules were investigated. Further, the therapeutic efficacy of Wuling Capsules was evaluated with the reserpine-induced rat model of liver Qi stagnation, spleen deficiency, and blood stasis. When 50% ethanol was used for the last time of extraction, the concentrations of polysaccharides, salvianolic acid B, and schisandrin in the extract, as well as the dry extract yield, increased significantly compared with those of the original preparation method. However, the fingerprints of micro-molecules showed little difference between the two methods, with a similarity of 0.862. The study then set the 50% ethanol extraction as the new preparation method. The pharmacodynamics evaluation showed that the Wuling Capsules prepared with the original and new methods both significantly alleviated the emotional depression and metabolic disturbance in model rats, demonstrating good performance in protecting the rats against gastric mucosal injuries, modulating intestinal function, and activating blood circulation. The mechanism of action may be related to the regulation of gastrointestinal hormone secretion, reduction of inflammation, and promotion of dopamine synthesis in cortex and hippocampus. At the same dose, the Wuling Capsules prepared with the original and new methods showed roughly the same overall therapeutic efficacy. However, the Wuling Capsules prepared with the new method had stronger effect in activating blood circulation and modulating inflammation, but weaker effects in regulating gastrin and dopamine. The present study provides basis data for optimizing the preparation process of Wuling Capsules and deciphering the mechanism of its therapeutic effect on liver Qi stagnation, spleen deficiency, and blood stasis.

[Dual modulating effects of hydrogen sulfide on gastrointestinal tract and efficacy-toxicity transformation of hydrogen sulfide-mediated drugs]

Hydrogen sulfide is one of the most important signal transduction molecules in the body. Its anabolism and catabolism in the gastrointestinal tract(GT) are extremely high, and its role in the physiological and pathological process of the GT is fairly complicated. The study reviewed recent literature on hydrogen sulfide and GT, and proposed that hydrogen sulfide exerted dual modulating effects in the GT; specifically, it promoted the functions of the GT at low concentrations while damaged the GT at high concentrations. Hydrogen sulfide donors or metabolic modifiers exerted their therapeutic effects by restoring the metabolic homeostasis of hydrogen sulfide, and extended their efficacy to other tissues through hydrogen sulfide related gut-axis. Additionally, drugs could deviate hydrogen sulfide metabolism from the normal state due to their instability of structure, local over exposure and/or excessive pharmacological effects, thus inducing toxic and side effects or transforming therapeutic effects into toxic and side effects. This study provided references for the deep research on physiological and pathological mechanisms of hydrogen sulfide and facilitated the development of hydrogen sulfide-related drugs and discovery of their toxicity and efficacy mechanism.

[Pre-formulation physicochemical properties of component-based Chinese medicine of Qinqi Fengshi Fang]

Pre-formulation physicochemical properties of the component-based Chinese medicine of Qinqi Fengshi Fang were investigated to provide a research basis for the design of the dosage form for component-based Chinese medicine of Qinqi Fengshi Fang. The macroporous resin adsorption and refining technology was used to prepare the total glycosides extract of Gentianae Macrophyllae Radix, Panacis Majoris Rhizome and Corni Fructus respectively in the prescription of Qinqi Fengshi Fang. Their physicochemical properties were investigated, including solubility, wettability, hygroscopicity, equilibrium solubility, oil-water partition coefficient, and stability. The results showed that the total glycosides of Gentianae Macrophyllae Radix, Panacis Majoris Rhizome and Corni Fructus all had good solubility and wettability. The solubility index of each total glycoside component was greater than 85%, and the water absorption index was greater than 50%. In the range of pH 2.0-7.4, the equilibrium solubility of three kinds of total glycosides all increased with the increase of pH, showing a consistent change trend of solubility. The hydrophilicity was also suitable and similar. Overall, three kinds of total glycosides showed good stability, but strong hygroscopicity. The degree of hygroscopicity was as follows: total glycosides of Gen-tianae Macrophyllae Radix &gt; total glycosides of Corni Fructus &gt; total glycosides of Panacis Majoris Rhizome. Therefore, the hygroscopi-city needed to be considered in the preparation of the component-based Chinese medicine of Qinqi Fengshi Fang. The excipients and packaging materials can be properly selected to reduce the hygroscopicity of the preparation. This study provides a reference for the dosage form design of the component-based Chinese medicine of Qinqi Fengshi Fang.

Elucidating the interaction of kansui and licorice by comparative plasma/tissue metabolomics and a heatmap with relative fold change

Although compatibility is highly advocated in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), inappropriate combination of some herbs may reduce the therapeutic action and even produce toxic effects. Kansui and licorice, one of TCM "Eighteen Incompatible Medicaments", are the most representative cases of improper herbal combination, which may still be applied simultaneously under given conditions. However, the potential mechanism of their compatibility and incompatibility is unclear. In the present study, two different ratios of kansui and licorice, representing their compatibility and incompatibility respectively, were designed to elucidate their interaction by comparative plasma/tissue metabolomics and a heatmap with relative fold change. As a result, glycocholic acid, prostaglandin F2a, dihydroceramide and sphinganine were screened out as the principal alternative biomarkers of compatibility group; sphinganine, dihydroceramide, arachidonic acid, leukotriene B4, acetoacetic acid and linoleic acid were those of incompatibility group. Based on the values of biomarkers in each tissue, the liver was identified as the compatible target organ, while the heart, liver, and kidney were the incompatible target organs. Furthermore, important pathways for compatibility and incompatibility were also constructed. These results help us to better understand and utilize the two herbs, and the study was the first to reveal some innate characters of herbs related to TCM "Eighteen Incompatible Medicaments".

Gut microbiota modulation with traditional Chinese medicine: A system biology-driven approach

With the development of system biology, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is drawing more and more attention nowadays. However, there are still many enigmas behind this ancient medical system because of the arcane theory and complex mechanism of actions. In recent decades, advancements in genome sequencing technologies, bioinformatics and culturomics have led to the groundbreaking characterization of the gut microbiota, a 'forgotten organ', and its role in host health and disease. Notably, gut microbiota has been emerging as a new avenue to understanding TCM. In this review, we will focus on the structure, composition, functionality and metabolites of gut microbiota affected by TCM so as to conversely understand its theory and mechanisms. We will also discuss the potential areas of gut microbiota for exploring Chinese material medica waste, Chinese marine material medica, add-on therapy and personalized precise medication of TCM. The review will conclude with future perspectives and challenges of gut microbiota in TCM intervention.

[Incompatibility mechanism of Crotonis Semen Pulveratum and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma based on diuretic effect and intestinal flora structure]

Based on the toxic characteristics caused by the compatibility between "Zaoji Suiyuan" and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, which was found in the previous studies, the expanded study was carried out on the incompatibility mechanism between Crotonis Semen Pulveratum(CT) and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma(GU) with the diuretic effect and intestinal flora as the characteristic indexes. The results showed that GU could slow down the rapid diuretic effect of CT, which suggested a tendency of decreasing the efficacy. Both the high and low dose of CT could significantly induce the intestinal injury and change the intestinal bacteria structure of mice. Low dose CT combined with GU could significantly increase the levels of Streptococcus and Rikenellaceae＿ukn. The relative abundance of Desulfovibrio and Streptococcaceae＿ukn were increased after the combined application of high dose CT and GU. It also suggested that there was a risk of inflammation in the liver and intestines when combined application of these two herbs. The results revealed that the combination of CT and GU has a tendency to reduce the clinical effect and increase the toxicity from the aspects of its traditional efficacy and its effect on intestinal microflora structure, which could provide the data for the clinical use of CT.

Incompatibility assessment of Genkwa Flos and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma with biochemical, histopathological and metabonomic approach

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As recorded in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, Genkwa Flos (YH) and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma (GC) compose one herbal pair of the so-called "eighteen incompatible medicaments", which indicate pairs of herbs that are mutually incompatible and that theoretically should not be applied simultaneously. However, the theory has been called into question due to a lack of evidence.

AIMS OF STUDY

In this study, the incompatibility of YH and GC was investigated based on an assessment of the toxic effects of their combination by traditional safety methods and a modern metabonomic approach.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sprague-Dawley rats were used to evaluate the subacute toxicity of YH and YH-GC. The serum, urine, and several tissues were collected for biochemical analysis, histopathological examination, and metabonomic analysis.

RESULTS

Rats exposed to a dose of 1.0 g/kg YH (3 times of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia maximum dose) exhibited toxicity of the heart, liver, kidney and testes, and rats exposed to a YH-GC combination (1.0 g/kg YH + 1.0 g/kg GC) exhibited similar hepatotoxicity, which aggravated renal and reproductive toxicity. Following this, a metabonomic study tentatively identified 14 potential biomarkers in the YH group and 10 potential biomarkers in the YH-GC group, and metabolic pathways were then constructed. YH disturbed the pathways of glycerophospholipid metabolism, primary bile acid biosynthesis, and sphingolipid metabolism, while YH-GC combination induced disruptions in phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, tyrosine metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism.

CONCLUSION

The toxicities of YH and YH-GC combination above the Chinese Pharmacopoeia dose were obvious but different. Metabonomics combined with biochemical and histopathological methods can be applied to elucidate the toxicity mechanism of the YH-GC combination that caused liver, kidney and reproductive injuries in rats.

[Effect and mechanism of aerial parts of Salvia miltiorrhiza effective constituents on glycolipid metabolism of high sugar-induced Drosophila melanogaster metabolic disorder model]

To evaluate the effect and mechanism of aerial parts of Salvia miltiorrhiza(SM) on high sugar-induced Drosophila melanogaster metabolic disorder model. The levels of glucose, triglyceride and protein in SM were detected; nymphosis time was recorded, and the reliability of metabolic disorder model as well as the mechanism of aerial parts of SM were evaluated based on metabonomics. The results showed that the levels of glucose and triglyceride in model group were significantly higher than those in normal control group(P<0.05). As compared with the model group, the glucose level was significantly decreased in gliclazide(GLZ) group, SM medium(SM-M) and high(SM-H) dose groups(P<0.05, P<0.01); the triglyceride level was significantly decreased in GLZ group and SM-H group(P<0.05, P<0.01). By principal component analysis(PCA) and partial least squares discriminant analysis(PLS-DA), the metabolic level of model ones was recovered to a certain degree after intervention by aerial parts of SM. Seventeen marker compounds and four major metabolic pathways were obtained by screening differential metabolites, comparing literature and retrieving the database. The aerial parts of SM may regulate glycolipid metabolism through the impact on histidine metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversions, cysteine and methionine metabolism and glycerolipid metabolism. Extract from aerial parts of SM can regulate the glycolipid metabolism of D. melanogaster metabolic disorder model and make it return to normal condition. This paper provides reference for the value discovery and resource utilization of the aerial parts of S. miltiorrhiza.

[Incompatible mechanism of compatibility of Chinese medicines based on Qianjinzi and Gancao effect on intestinal flora/barrier system]

The study was based on the toxic characteristics of the compatibility between "Zaojisuiyuan" and Gancao, with intestinal tract and intestinal bacteria as subject. From the angle of intestinal barrier function, motor function, steady state of intestinal flora and metabolism genes, the toxic and side effects of the compatibility between Qianjinzi and Gancao with similar properties, bases and chemical composition and types were further explored. The results showed that the combined application of Qianjinzi and Gancao enhanced intestinal mucosa damage, and led to abnormal changes in intestinal bacteria structure and metabolic function. It improved the degradation functions of mucus and aromatic amino acids on intestinal bacteria, which may increase the risk of disease and derived from intestinal urotoxin and other toxic substances. This study considered intestinal bacteria as an important target to study the interactions of traditional Chinese medicine. The "drug-intestinal bacteria-metabolism-toxicity" was applied in the experiment. Meanwhile, it provides ideas for exploring incompatible mechanism of traditional Chinese medicines.

Comparative Analysis of Compatibility Effects on Invigorating Blood Circulation for Cyperi Rhizoma Series of Herb Pairs Using Untargeted Metabolomics

The mutual-assistance compatibility of Cyperi Rhizoma (Xiangfu, XF) and Angelicae Sinensis Radix (Danggui, DG), Chuanxiong Rhizoma (Chuanxiong, CX), Paeoniae Radix Alba (Baishao, BS), or Corydalis Rhizoma (Yanhusuo, YH), found in a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) named Xiang-Fu-Si-Wu Decoction (XFSWD), can produce synergistic and promoting blood effects. Nowadays, XFSWD has been proved to be effective in activating blood circulation and dissipating blood stasis. However, the role of the herb pairs synergistic effects in the formula were poorly understood. In order to quantitatively assess the compatibility effects of herb pairs, mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics studies were performed. The plasma and urine metabolic profiles of acute blood stasis rats induced by adrenaline hydrochloride and ice water and administered with Cyperi Rhizoma-Angelicae Sinensis Radix (XD), Cyperi Rhizoma-Chuanxiong Rhizoma (XC), Cyperi Rhizoma-Paeoniae Radix Alba (XB), Cyperi Rhizoma-Corydalis Rhizoma (XY) were compared. Relative peak area of identified metabolites was calculated and principal component analysis (PCA) score plot from the potential markers was used to visualize the overall differences. Then, the metabolites results were used with biochemistry indicators and genes expression values as parameters to quantitatively evaluate the compatibility effects of XF series of herb pairs by PCA and correlation analysis. The collective results indicated that the four XF herb pairs regulated glycerophospholipid metabolism, steroid hormone biosynthesis and arachidonic acid metabolism pathway. XD was more prominent in regulating the blood stasis during the four XF herb pairs. This study demonstrated that metabolomics was a useful tool to efficacy evaluation and compatibility effects of TCM elucidation.

How impaired efficacy happened between Gancao and Yuanhua: Compounds, targets and pathways

As recorded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, Gancao (Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma) could weaken the pharmacological effect or increase the toxicity of Yuanhua (Genkwa Flos). However, the theory has been suspected due to lack of evidence. Here, we investigate whether Gancao could weaken Yuanhua’s diuretic effect, if so, which chemicals and which targets may be involved. Results showed that Yuanhua exerted diuretic effect through down-regulating renal AQP 2, without electrolyte disturbances such as K⁺ loss which has been observed as side-effect of most diuretics. Gancao had no diuretic effect, but could impair Yuanhua’s diuretic effect through up-regulating renal AQP 2. Glycyrrhetinic acid (GRA) in Gancao could up-regulate AQP 2 and counteract the AQP 2 regulation effect of Yuanhuacine (YHC) and Ginkwanin (GKW) in Yuanhua. Network pharmacology method suggested that YHC, GKW and GRA could bind to MEK1/FGFR1 protein and influence ERK-MAPK pathway, which was verified by Western blotting. This study supports TCM theory and reminds that more attention should be paid to the safety and efficacy problems induced by improper combination between herbs. Moreover, we suggested that promising diuretics with less side effects can be developed from Chinese Medicines such as Yuanhua.

Wave propagation in layered piezoelectric rectangular bar: an extended orthogonal polynomial approach

Wave propagation in multilayered piezoelectric structures has received much attention in past forty years. But the research objects of previous research works are only for semi-infinite structures and one-dimensional structures, i.e., structures with a finite dimension in only one direction, such as horizontally infinite flat plates and axially infinite hollow cylinders. This paper proposes an extension of the orthogonal polynomial series approach to solve the wave propagation problem in a two-dimensional (2-D) piezoelectric structure, namely, a multilayered piezoelectric bar with a rectangular cross-section. Through numerical comparison with the available reference results for a purely elastic multilayered rectangular bar, the validity of the extended polynomial series approach is illustrated. The dispersion curves and electric potential distributions of various multilayered piezoelectric rectangular bars are calculated to reveal their wave propagation characteristics.

Modeling of MEMS resonator piezoelectric disc by means of an equicharge current source method

The Legendre polynomial method has been extended to the modeling of MEMS resonator disc with current excitation (equicharge current source). Formulation is given that allows the electric current source to be taken into account. A unique formalism has been developed which allows for both harmonic and modal analyses. Numerical results such as normalized electric input impedance, resonant and anti-resonant frequencies, dispersion curves and displacement profiles are presented and compared with those obtained by using voltage excitation in order to check the accuracy and range of applicability of the proposed approach.

A systematic investigation into the extraction of aluminum from coal spoil through kaolinite

This research has applied kaolin and active carbon (AC) to the investigation of the recovery of aluminum from coal spoil (CS). The kaolin, AC-containing kaolin mixture, and CS have been calcined at 500, 600, 700, 800, and 900 degrees C for 15, 30, 60, and 120 min. The transformation of kaolinite and aluminum extraction that occurred in each calcined sample have been characterized using XRD, TG, IR, and hydrochloric acid leaching methods. The dehydroxylation of kaolinite and the decomposition of metakaolin were influenced by thermal treatment temperature and time. The metakaolin had kept a portion of OH- in its structure until it was calcined at a temperature of 800 degrees C. Under 60 min treatment, new SiO2 phase was able to be formed at 500 degrees C, kaolinite was totally converted to metakaolin at 600 degrees C, and the SiO2 rejoined the reaction at 800 degrees C. The decompositions of CS were similar to those of kaolin mixture containing 20 wt % AC (MKC). The combustion of combustible matter accelerated the decomposition of kaolinite in the CS and MKC. Higher AC content led to lower aluminum extraction. The treatment at 600 degrees C was optimal for both CS and MKC.

Dual purinergic synaptic transmission in the human enteric nervous system

Based on findings in rodents, we sought to test the hypothesis that purinergic modulation of synaptic transmission occurs in the human intestine. Time series analysis of intraneuronal free Ca(2+) levels in submucosal plexus (SMP) from Roux-en-Y specimens was done using Zeiss LSM laser-scanning confocal fluo-4 AM Ca(2+) imaging. A 3-s fiber tract stimulation (FTS) was used to elicit a synaptic Ca(2+) response. Short-circuit current (I(sc) = chloride secretion) was recorded in mucosa-SMP in flux chambers. A distension reflex or electrical field stimulation was used to study I(sc) responses. Ca(2+) imaging was done in 1,222 neurons responding to high-K(+) depolarization from 61 surgical cases. FTS evoked synaptic Ca(2+) responses in 62% of recorded neurons. FTS caused frequency-dependent Ca(2+) responses (0.1-100 Hz). FTS Ca(2+) responses were inhibited by Omega-conotoxin (70%), hexamethonium (50%), TTX, high Mg(2+)/low Ca(2+) (< or = 100%), or capsaicin (25%). A P2Y(1) receptor (P2Y(1)R) antagonist, MRS-2179 or PLC inhibitor U-73122, blocked FTS responses (75-90%). P2Y(1)R-immunoreactivity occurred in 39% of vasoactive intestinal peptide-positive neurons. The selective adenosine A(3) receptor (AdoA(3)R) agonist 2-chloro-N(6)-(3-iodobenzyl)adenosine-5'-N-methylcarboxamide (2-Cl-IBMECA) caused concentration- and frequency-dependent inhibition of FTS Ca(2+) responses (IC(50) = 8.5 x 10(-8) M). The AdoA(3)R antagonist MRS-1220 augmented such Ca(2+) responses; 2-Cl-IBMECA competed with MRS-1220. Knockdown of AdoA(1)R with 8-cyclopentyl-3-N-(3-{[3-(4-fluorosulphonyl)benzoyl]-oxy}-propyl)-1-N-propyl-xanthine did not prevent 2-Cl-IBMECA effects. MRS-1220 caused 31% augmentation of TTX-sensitive distension I(sc) responses. The SMP from Roux-en-Y patients is a suitable model to study synaptic transmission in human enteric nervous system (huENS). The P2Y(1)/Galphaq/PLC/inositol 1,3,5-trisphosphate/Ca(2+) signaling pathway, N-type Ca(2+) channels, nicotinic receptors, and extrinsic nerves contribute to neurotransmission in huENS. Inhibitory AdoA(3)R inhibit nucleotide or cholinergic transmission in the huENS.

Differential gene expression of adenosine A1, A2a, A2b, and A3 receptors in the human enteric nervous system

Adenosine receptors (ADORs) in the enteric nervous system may be of importance in the control of motor and secretomotor functions. Gene expression and distribution of neural adenosine A1, A2a, A2b, or A3 receptors (Rs) in the human intestine was investigated using immunochemical, Western blotting, RT-PCR, and short-circuit current (I(sc)) studies. Adenosine A1R, A2aR, A2bR, or A3R mRNAs were differentially expressed in neural and nonneural layers of the jejunum, ileum, colon, and cecum and in HT-29, T-84, T98G, and Bon cell lines. A1R, A2aR, A2bR, and A3R immunoreactivities (IRs) were differentially expressed in PGP 9.5-immunoreactive neurons. A2bR IR occurs exclusively in 50% of submucosal vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) neurons (interneurons, secretomotor or motor neurons) in jejunum, but not colon; A2aR is also found in other neurons. A3R IR occurs in 57% of substance P-positive jejunal submucosal neurons (putative intrinsic primary afferent neurons) and less than 10% of VIP neurons. Western blots revealed bands for A3R at 44 kDa, 52 kDa, and 66 kDa. A2aR and A2bR are coexpressed in enteric neurons and epithelial cells. 5'-N-methylcarboxamidoadenosine or carbachol evoked an increase in I(sc). A2bR IR is more prominent than A2aR IR in myenteric neurons, nerve fibers, or glia. A1R is expressed in jejunal myenteric neurons and colonic submucosal neurons. Regional differences also exist in smooth muscle expression of ADOR IR(s). It is concluded that neural and nonneural A1, A2a, A2b, and A3Rs may participate in the regulation of neural reflexes in the human gut. Clear cell and regional differences exist in ADOR gene expression, distribution, localization, and coexpression.

Mechanical stimulation activates Galphaq signaling pathways and 5-hydroxytryptamine release from human carcinoid BON cells

5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) released from enterochromaffin cells activates secretory and peristaltic reflexes necessary for lubrication and propulsion of intestinal luminal contents. The aim of this study was to identify mechanosensitive intracellular signaling pathways that regulate 5-HT release. Human carcinoid BON cells displayed 5-HT immunoreactivity associated with granules dispersed throughout the cells or at the borders. Mechanical stimulation by rotational shaking released 5-HT from BON cells or from guinea pig jejunum during neural blockade with tetrodotoxin. In streptolysin O-permeabilized cells, guanosine 5'-O- (2-thiodiphosphate) (GDP-beta-S) and a synthetic peptide derived from the COOH terminus of Galphaq abolished mechanically evoked 5-HT release, while the NH(2)-terminal peptide did not. An antisense phosphorothioated oligonucleotide targeted to a unique sequence of Galphaq abolished mechanically evoked 5-HT release and reduced Galphaq protein levels without affecting the expression of Galpha(11). Depletion and chelation of extracellular calcium did not alter mechanically evoked 5-HT release, whereas depletion of intracellular calcium stores by thapsigargin and chelation of intracellular calcium by 1,2-bis (o-Aminophenoxy) ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid tetra (acetoxymethyl) ester (BAPTA-AM) reduced 5-HT release. Mechanically evoked 5-HT release was inhibited by somatostatin-14 in a concentration-dependent manner. The results suggest that mechanical stimulation of enterochromaffin-derived BON cells directly or indirectly stimulates a G protein-coupled receptor that activates Galphaq, mobilizes intracellular calcium, and causes 5-HT release.

[Determination of annonaceous acetogenins in annonaceae plants by HPLC]

AIM

To develop a method for analysis of antitumor annonaceous acetogenins in Annonaceae plants by HPLC.

METHODS

Squamostatin-B (1), squamocin (2) and annonin-VI (3) were used as standard substances. Chromatography column was a Rp-18; the mobile phase was methanol-water (90:10); the flow rate was 1.0 mL.min-1 and the detecting wavelength was 220 nm.

RESULTS

A linear range was obtained from 2.3 to 13.8 micrograms with a good correlation. The recoveries of (1), (2) and (3) were 100.3%, 100.3% and 100.0%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This method was developed for the analysis of acetogenins by HPLC for the first time. The method is rapid, accurate and suitable for the analysis of the antitumor acetogenins in Annonaceae plants.

[Expression of hepatitis B virus antigen in brain tissue from liver cirrhosis patients with hepatitis B and its significance]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the expression of hepatitis B virus (HBV) antigen in brain tissue from liver cirrhosis patients with hepatitis B and explore its significance.

METHODS

HBsAg and HBcAg were detected in the brain tissue from 70 liver cirrhosis dead patients with hepatitis B by S-P immunohistochemical assay, and the relationship between the expression of HBV antigen in brain tissue testing and clinic and pathology was analyzed.

RESULTS

30 patients (42.89%) were positive for HBV antigen. Among them, 24 patients (34.29%) were positive for HBsAg and 18 patients (25.71%) were positive for HBcAg. HBV antigen was mainly found in cytoplasm and distributed in neurons, neurogliocytes and vascular endothelial cells. The positive cells were distributed separately, scatteredly or focally. The expression of HBV antigen was not associated with the serum level of HBV replication but associated with the occurrence of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and the severity of brain tissue pathologic lesions of HE.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that HBV infection develop in brain tissue from liver cirrhosis patients with hepatitis B and HBV may replicate in it. HBV infection in brain tissue may p lay an important role in occurrence and development of HE from liver cirrhosis patients with hepatitis B.

Decreased susceptibility to fatty acid-induced peripheral tissue insulin resistance in women

Elevation of plasma nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) levels has been shown in various studies to induce peripheral tissue insulin resistance and impair the suppression of endogenous glucose production (EGP). These studies have been conducted predominantly in men. We compared the effects of elevated plasma NEFA levels on basal and insulin-stimulated glucose metabolism in 8 normal women (age 42 +/- 8 years [mean +/- SD], BMI 25 +/- 3 kg/m(2)) and 10 normal men (35 +/- 6 years, 24 +/- 3 kg/m(2)). Each subject underwent two 5-h 80 mU. m(-2). min(-1) hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamps with measurement of glucose kinetics (intravenous [3-(3)H]glucose) and substrate oxidation. Plasma NEFA levels were elevated in one study for 3 h before and during the clamp ( approximately 1 mmol/l in both groups) by infusion of 20% Intralipid (60 ml/h) and heparin (900 U/h). In the control studies, the men and women had similar insulin-stimulated glucose disposal rates (R(d)) and substrate oxidation rates. In the men, elevated NEFA levels decreased insulin-stimulated glucose R(d) during the final 40 min of the clamp by 23% (P < 0.001). By contrast, no significant change in glucose R(d) was found in the women (control 10.4 +/- 1.1, lipid study 9.9 +/- 1.3 mg. kg(-1). min(-1)). Glucose R(d) was also unchanged in six women studied at a lower insulin dose (40 mU. m(-2). min(-1)). During the last 40 min of the high-insulin dose clamps with elevated NEFA, glucose oxidation was decreased by 33% in the men (P < 0.001) and by 23% in the women (P < 0.02). Nonoxidative glucose R(d) at this time was decreased by 15% in the men (P = 0.02) but was not significantly affected in women. Basal EGP was unaffected by elevation of plasma NEFA levels in both groups. Suppression of EGP during the glucose clamps, however, was impaired. At the insulin infusion rate used, the magnitude of this defect was comparable in men and women. In summary, our findings suggest that although the effects on EGP appear comparable, the inhibitory effects of NEFA on peripheral tissue insulin sensitivity are observed in men but cannot be demonstrated in women.

[Chemical constituents in volatile oil from fruits of Alpinia oxyphylla Miq]

OBJECTIVE

To study the chemical constituents in the volatile oil from fruits of Alpinia oxyphylla.

METHOD

Using GC-MS to identify the constituents.

RESULT AND CONCLUSION

Sixty-four compounds were identified on the basis of GC-MS, the main ones being p-cymene, valence, linalool, myrtenal, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, furopelargone A and terpinen-4-ol. Three sesquiterpenes valencene, nootkanone and nootkanol have been isolated from the CHCl3 extract as check, of these 64 identified compounds linalyl oxide, valencene, bakkenolide A, furopelargone A and 3-hydroxycalamenene are reported for the first time.

[Studies on the chemical constituents of the seeds from Artabostrys hexapetalus (Annonaceae)]

AIM

To study the chemical constituents of the seeds from Artabotrys hexapetalus (L.f.) Bhandari (Annonaceae).

METHODS

Various chromatographic techniques were used to separate and purify the constituents. Their structures were elucidated on the physico-chemical properties and spectral data.

RESULTS

Eight compounds were isolated from the seeds of A. hexapetalus. They were identified as four neolignans: isoamericanin A (1), isoamericanol A (2), americanin B (3) and artabotrycinol (4), a semiterpenoid: (R)-artabotriol (5) and others: palmitic acid (6), beta-sitosterol (7) and daucosterol (8).

CONCLUSION

Artabotrycinol (4) and (R)-artabotriol (5) are new compounds. Three other neolignans were isolated from this plant for the first time.

[Compounds from roots of Chirita fimbrisepala Hand.-Mazz]

OBJECTIVE

To study the chemical constituents the roots of Chirita fimbrisepala.

METHOD

The constituents were extracted with solvent, separated and purified with chromatographic methods, identified by NMR, MS, UV, IR and physical-chemical constants.

RESULT

Three flavonoids mahuangchiside(I), hispidulin (II) and kaempferol(III) were isolated with daucosteral(IV).

CONCLUSION

I is a new compound elucidated as hispidulin-7-O-beta-D-xylopyranosyl-(1-->2)-beta-D-xylopyranoside, named mahuangchiside, II and III were isolated for the first time from the family Gesneriaceae, and IV was isolated for the first time from the genus Chirita.

[A-ring formylated flavonoids and oxoaporphinoid alkaloid from Dasymaschalon rostratum Merr. et Chun]

OBJECTIVE

To study the chemical components in the stem of Dasymaschalon rostratum.

METHOD

The components were extracted with solvent, separated and purified with chromatographic methods, identified by NMR, MS, UV, IR and physicol-chemical constants.

RESULTS

Three A-ring-formylated flavonoids and one oxoaporphinnoid aikaloid were isolated and identified as lawinal, unonal, isounonal and 7-oxodehydroasimilobine.

CONCLUSION

All the four compounds were isolated for the first time from the genus Dasymaschalon. According to all the phytochemistry papers on Annonaceae, A-ring formylated flavonoids in this family were isolated from the genus Desmos for the first time. Thus, it is an interesting discovery in chemotaxonomy which reveals the close relationship between the two genera Desmos and Dasymaschalon.

Annonaceous acetogenins of the seeds from Annona muricata

Muricatenol (1) is a new C37 non-THF ring acetogenin with four hydroxyls and one isolated double bond in the long aliphatic chain. 2,4-cis-Gigantetrocinone (2) and 2,4-trans-gigantetrocinone (3) have been isolated as their acetates by preparative TLC. 2,4-trans-Isoannonacin-10-one (4) and 2,4-trans-isoannonacin (5) have been isolated as only 2,4-trans-form for the first time (no cis-form). Also four known acetogenins, gigantetrocin-A (6), gigantetrocin-B (7), annomontacin (8), gigantetronenin (9) and a mixture of N-fatty acyl tryptamines have been isolated (10). Their structures have been established on the basis of spectral analyses. The CHCl3 fraction of the seeds showed strong antitumor activities.

Population structure and history in East Asia

Archaeological, anatomical, linguistic, and genetic data have suggested that there is an old and significant boundary between the populations of north and south China. We use three human genetic marker systems and one human-carried virus to examine the north/south distinction. We find no support for a major north/south division in these markers; rather, the marker patterns suggest simple isolation by distance.

[Studies on the chemical constituents of Kaempferia marginata]

AIM

To study the chemical constituents of the rhizomes of Kaempferia galanga L. (Zingiberaceae).

METHODS

Various chromatographic techniques were used to separate and purify. Their physico-chemical properties and spectral data were used to elucidate the structures.

RESULTS

Six compounds were isolated from the hexane extract of K. galanga. Their structures were identified as marginatol (1), 8 (14), 15-sanderacopimaradiene-1 alpha, 9 alpha-diol (2), 8 (14), 15-sanderacopimaradiene-1 alpha, 6 beta, 9 alpha-triol (3), germacrone (4), trans-ethyl p-methoxycinnamate (5) and n-pentadecane (6) on the basis of spectral data (IR, MS, 1H-1H, 13C-1H NMR, NOEs and HMBC).

CONCLUSION

Marginatol (1) is a new isopimarene diterpenoid and was elucidated as 8(14), 15-isopimaradiene-6 alpha-ol. Compounds 2, 3 and 4 were isolated for the first time from this plant.

Effects of troglitazone on blood concentrations of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 in patients with type 2 diabetes and in lean and obese normal subjects

Low plasma fibrinolytic activity in association with increased plasma plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) levels has been linked to an increased risk of atherosclerosis in obesity and type 2 diabetes. We tested the hypothesis that troglitazone, which improves insulin sensitivity and lowers plasma insulin levels in insulin-resistant obese subjects and patients with type 2 diabetes, would also lower circulating PAI-1 antigen concentrations and activity. We assessed insulin sensitivity (5-h, 80 mU x m(-2) x min(-1) hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp) and measured plasma PAI-1 antigen and activities and tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) in 14 patients with type 2 diabetes and 20 normal control subjects (10 lean, 10 obese) before and after 3 months of treatment with troglitazone (600 mg/day). At baseline, plasma PAI-1 antigen levels after an overnight fast were significantly higher in the obese (33.5 +/- 4.7 microg/l) and type 2 diabetic subjects (54.9 +/- 6.3 microg/l) than in the lean control subjects (16.3 +/- 3.2 microg/l; P < 0.01 and P < 0.001, respectively). Troglitazone decreased plasma PAI-1 antigen concentrations in the diabetic patients (36.8 +/- 5.0 microg/l; P < 0.001 vs. baseline), but the reduction in the obese subjects did not reach statistical significance (baseline, 33.5 +/- 4.7; after troglitazone, 25.6 +/- 5.2 microg/l). Changes in plasma PAI-1 activity paralleled those of PAI-1 antigen. The extent of the reduction in plasma PAI-1 antigen concentrations in the diabetic patients after troglitazone correlated with the reductions in fasting plasma insulin (r = 0.60, P < 0.05), nonesterified fatty acid (r = 0.63, P < 0.02), and glucose concentrations (r = 0.64, P < 0.02) but not with the improvement in glucose disposal rates during the glucose clamps. Three nonresponders to troglitazone with respect to effects on insulin sensitivity and fasting glucose and insulin levels also had no reduction in circulating PAI-1. In conclusion, troglitazone enhances fibrinolytic system activity in insulin-resistant type 2 diabetic patients. This effect appears to be intimately linked to its potential to lower plasma insulin levels and improve glycemic control through its peripheral tissue insulin-sensitizing effects.

Metabolic effects of troglitazone therapy in type 2 diabetic, obese, and lean normal subjects

OBJECTIVE

To characterize metabolic effects of troglitazone in type 2 diabetic, obese, and lean subjects, and examine the effects of troglitazone 2-3 weeks after discontinuation.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Nine type 2 diabetic, nine obese, and nine lean subjects underwent baseline metabolic studies including an 8-h meal-tolerance test (MTT) and a 5-h glucose clamp. Subjects then received troglitazone (600 mg/day) for 12 weeks and subsequently had repeat metabolic studies. Diabetic subjects remained off hypoglycemic agents for 2-3 weeks and then underwent a 5-h glucose clamp.

RESULTS

In diabetic subjects, fasting plasma glucose was reduced (P<0.05) and insulin-stimulated glucose disposal (Rd) was enhanced by treatment (P<0.02). The area under the MTT 8-h plasma glucose curve declined with therapy (P<0.001), and its change was positively correlated with the improvement in Rd (r = 0.75, P<0.05). There was also a positive correlation between the change in fasting hepatic glucose output (HGO) and the change in fasting plasma glucose with treatment (r = 0.92, P<0.001). Discontinuation of therapy for 2-3 weeks did not significantly affect fasting plasma glucose or insulin-stimulated glucose Rd. In obese subjects, insulin-stimulated glucose Rd improved with therapy (P<0.001), allowing for maintenance of euglycemia by lower plasma insulin concentrations (P<0.05). In lean subjects, an increase in fasting HGO (P<0.001) and glucose clearance (P<0.01) was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Troglitazone lowers fasting and postprandial plasma glucose in type 2 diabetes by affecting both fasting HGO and peripheral insulin sensitivity. Its effects are evident 2-3 weeks after discontinuation. In obese subjects, its insulin sensitizing effects suggest a role for its use in the primary prevention of type 2 diabetes.

A comparison of troglitazone and metformin on insulin requirements in euglycemic intensively insulin-treated type 2 diabetic patients

Troglitazone and metformin lower glucose levels in diabetic patients without increasing plasma insulin levels. We compared the insulin sparing actions of these two agents and their effects on insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion in 20 type 2 diabetic patients. To avoid the confounding effect of improved glycemic control on insulin action and secretion, patients were first rendered euglycemic with 4 weeks of continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) before randomization to CSII plus troglitazone (n = 10) or CSII plus metformin (n = 10); euglycemia was maintained for another 6-7 weeks. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by a hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp 1) at baseline, 2) after 4 weeks of CSII, and 3) after CSII plus either troglitazone or metformin. The 24-h glucose, insulin, and C-peptide profiles were performed on the day before the second and third glucose clamps. Good glycemic control was achieved with CSII alone and was maintained with CSII plus an oral agent (mean 24-h glucose: troglitazone, 6.2+/-0.6 mmol/l; metformin, 6.2 +/-0.3 mmol/l). Insulin requirements decreased 53% with troglitazone compared with CSII alone (48+/-4 vs. 102+/-13 U/day, P < 0.001), but only 31% with metformin (76+/-13 vs. 110+/-18 U/day, P < 0.005). The 24-h C-peptide profiles were similar. Normal fasting hepatic glucose output was maintained with both agents despite lower insulin levels than on CSII alone. Insulin sensitivity did not change significantly with CSII alone or with CSII plus metformin, but improved 29% with CSII plus troglitazone (P < 0.005 vs. CSII alone) and was then 45% higher than in the CSII plus metformin patients (P < 0.005). In conclusion, metformin has no effect on insulin-stimulated glucose disposal independent of glycemic control in type 2 diabetes. Troglitazone (600 mg/day) has greater insulin-sparing effects than metformin (1,700 mg/day) in CSII-treated euglycemic patients. This is probably explained by the peripheral tissue insulin-sensitizing effects of troglitazone.

Nitric oxide is the predominant mediator for neurogenic vasodilation in porcine pial veins

The innervation pattern and the vasomotor response of the potential transmitters in the porcine pial veins were investigated morphologically and pharmacologically. The porcine pial veins were more densely innervated by vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP)- and neuropeptide Y-immunoreactive (I) fibers than were calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-I, choline acetyltransferase-I, Substance P (SP)-I, and NADPH diaphorase fibers. Serotonin (5-HT)-I fibers, which were not detected in normal control pial veins, were observed in isolated pial veins after incubation with 5-HT (1 microM). 5-HT-I fibers, however, were not observed when incubation with 5-HT was performed in the presence of guanethidine (1 microM), suggesting that 5-HT was taken up into the sympathetic nerves. In vitro tissue bath studies demonstrated that porcine pial veins in the presence of active muscle tone relaxed on applications of exogenous 5-HT, CGRP, SP, VIP, and sodium nitroprusside, whereas exogenous norepinephrine and neuropeptide Y induced only constrictions. Transmural nerve stimulation (TNS) did not elicit any response in pial veins in the absence of active muscle tone. However, in the presence of active muscle tone, pial veins relaxed exclusively on TNS. This tetrodotoxin-sensitive relaxation was not affected by receptor antagonists for VIP, CGRP, 5-HT, or SP but was blocked by L-glutamine (1 mM) and abolished by Nomega-nitro-L-arginine (10 microM) and Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (10 microM). The inhibition by L-glutamine, Nomega-nitro-L-arginine, and Nomega-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester was reversed by L-arginine and L-citrulline but not by their D-enantiomers. These results demonstrate that the vasomotor effect of all potential transmitters except 5-HT in the pial veins examined resembles that in cerebral arteries. Although porcine pial veins receive vasodilator and constrictor nerves, a lack of constriction on TNS suggests that the dilator nerves that release nitric oxide may play a predominant role in regulating porcine pial venous tone.

Segregation of VIPergic-nitric oxidergic and cholinergic-nitric oxidergic innervation in porcine middle cerebral arteries

The distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-, choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)-, and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP)-immunoreactivities, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate diaphorase (NADPHd)-reactivities in the sphenopalatine ganglia (SPG), and perivascular nerves in middle cerebral arteries of the pig was investigated by double-staining techniques using combined immunofluorescence and histochemistry methods. In the SPG, almost all ganglionic cells were NOS-immunoreactive (I) and NADPHd-positive, and both NOS immunoreactivities and NADPHd reactivities were completely co-localized. ChAT-I ganglionic cells accounted for 75%, while VIP-I ganglionic cells represented 42% of all ganglionic cells. Almost all VIP immunoreactivities were co-localized with ChAT immunoreactivities, and all ganglionic cells that were VIP-I and/or ChAT-I were NOS-I and NADPHd-reactive. None of the ganglionic cells in the SPG were immunoreactive to calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). CGRP immunoreactivities, however, were found to surround some ganglionic cells. In middle cerebral arteries, all adventitial NOS-I bundles and fine fibers were coincident with NADPHd fibers. Almost all adventitial ChAT-I bundles and thin fibers, and VIP-I mesh-like fibers stained positively for NADPHd, while the mesh-like NADPHd fine fibers were not ChAT-I. Simultaneous labeling using antibodies against VIP and ChAT further indicated that VIP-I fibers were closer than ChAT-I fibers to the smooth muscle. In rare occasions, perivascular fibers were found to be stained for both ChAT and VIP, showing that most ChAT-I and VIP-I fibers were not coincident. These results suggest that ChAT and VIP are rarely co-localized in perivascular nerves in middle cerebral arteries, and point out that the neurotransmitter and the modulator that are co-localized within the same nerve cell body may distribute totally independently and differently at the terminal level. The present results also indicate that in cerebral perivascular nerves, the combination of nitric oxide (NO) and acetylcholine (ACh), as well as the combination of NO and VIP, are localized in the same nerve with different axons containing either NO plus ACh, or NO plus VIP. These findings support the hypothesis that ACh and VIP may act as modulators in regulating presynaptic release of NO, and therefore, cerebral neurogenic vasodilation, from their respective perivascular cholinergic-nitric oxidergic and VIPergic-nitric oxidergic nerves.

Regulation of skeletal muscle hexokinase II by insulin in nondiabetic and NIDDM subjects

Impaired muscle glucose phosphorylation to glucose-6-phosphate by hexokinases (HKs)-I and -II may contribute to insulin resistance in NIDDM and obesity. HK-II expression is regulated by insulin. We tested the hypothesis that basal and insulin-stimulated expression of HK-II is decreased in NIDDM and obese subjects. Skeletal muscle HK-I and HK-II activities were measured in seven lean and six obese normal subjects and eight patients with NIDDM before and at 3 and 5 h of a hyperinsulinemic (80 mU x m(-2) x min(-1)) euglycemic clamp. To assess whether changes in HK-II expression seen during a glucose clamp are likely to be physiologically relevant, we also measured HK-I and HK-II activity in 10 lean normal subjects before and after a high-carbohydrate meal. After an overnight fast, total HK, HK-I, and HK-II activities were similar in lean and obese control subjects; but HK-II was lower in NIDDM patients than in lean subjects (1.42 +/- 0.16 [SE] vs. 2.33 +/- 0.24 nmol x min(-1) x mg(-1) molecular weight, P < 0.05) and accounted for a lower proportion of total HK (33 +/- 3 vs. 47 +/- 3%, P < 0.025). HK-II (but not HK-I) activity increased during the clamp in lean and obese subjects by 34 and 36% after 3 h and by 14 and 22% after 5 h of hyperinsulinemia; no increase was found in the NIDDM patients. In the lean subjects, muscle HK-II activity also increased by 15% 4 h after the meal, from 2.47 +/- 0.19 basally to 2.86 +/- 0.28 nmol x min(-1) x mg(-1) protein (P < 0.05). During the clamps, muscle HK-II activity correlated with muscle citrate synthase activity in the normal subjects (r = 0.58, P < 0.05) but not in the NIDDM patients. A weak relationship was noted between muscle HK-II activity and glucose disposal rate at the end of the clamp when all three groups were combined (r = 0.49, P < 0.05). In summary, NIDDM patients have lower muscle HK-II activity basally and do not increase the activity of this enzyme in response to a 5-h insulin stimulus. This defect may contribute to their insulin resistance. In nondiabetic obese subjects, muscle HK-II expression and its regulation by insulin are normal.

[Studies on chemical structures of two iso-acetogenins from Annona reticulata]

Two annonaceous acetogenins: squamone (1) and isoannonareticin (2) have been isolated from the seeds of Annona reticulata L. (Annonaceae). 1 and 2 were shown to be mixtures of 2-epimers by the successful separation of their acetates with preparative TLC, giving: 2,4-cis-squamone diacetate (1a-1), 2,4-trans-squamone diacetate (1a-2), 2,4-cis-isoannonareticin diacetate (2a-1) and 2,4-trans-isoannonareticin diacetate (2a-2). The 2,4-cis-squamone (1-1) and 2,4-trans-isoannonareticin (2-1) are new annonaceous acetogenins. Their structures and relative stereochemistry were elucidated on the basis of spectral analysis (1H-1H COSY and NOE).

L-citrulline conversion to L-arginine in sphenopalatine ganglia and cerebral perivascular nerves in the pig

The presence of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), argininosuccinate synthetase (ASS), and argininosuccinate lyase (ASL) and their coexistence with NADPH-diaphorase (NADPHd), a marker for NOS, in the porcine sphenopalatine ganglia (SPG), pial veins, and the anterior cerebral arteries was examined using immunohistochemical and histochemical staining techniques. NOS-immunoreactive (I), ASS-I, and ASL-I fibers were found in pial veins and the anterior cerebral arteries. NOS, ASS, and ASL immunoreactivities were also found in neuronal cell bodies in the SPG. Almost all neuronal cell bodies in the SPG and nerve fibers in pial veins and the anterior cerebral arteries that were reactive to ASS, ASL, and NOS were also stained positively with NADPHd, suggesting that ASS, ASL, and NOS were colocalized in the same neurons in the SPG and perivascular nerves. With the use of in vitro tissue bath techniques, L-citrulline but not D-citrulline reversed inhibition of neurogenic vasodilation in isolated porcine pial veins produced by NOS inhibitors such as NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester. In the presence of L-aspartate, L-arginine was synthesized from L-citrulline in homogenates of SPG and endothelium-denuded cerebral arteries and pial veins. These results provide evidence indicating that perivascular nerves in pial veins like cerebral arteries can convert L-citrulline to L-arginine for synthesizing nitric oxide. The conversion is most likely via an argininosuccinate pathway.

Cholinergic, nitric oxidergic innervation in cerebral arteries of the cat

Using immunoperoxidase labeling (IPL) and immunofluorescence labeling (IFL) methods, and each followed by NADPH diaphorase (NADPHd) histochemical staining in the same specimen, colocalization of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and NADPHd, indicative of nitric oxide synthase (NOS), in cerebral pial arteries and the sphenopalatine ganglia (SPG) of the cat was examined. In addition, retrograde axonal tracing using true blue was performed to determine if cerebral perivascular nerves containing ChAT and NADPHd originate in the SPG. Consistent results were obtained from IPL and IFL methods, indicating that the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and the circle of Willis received dense ChAT-immunoreactive (I) and NADPHd bundles and fine fibers. Almost all ChAT-I fibers and NADPHd fibers were found to be coincident in the arteries examined. A few fine fibers exhibited only NADPHd staining. In the SPG, approximately half of the ganglionic cells were both ChAT-I and NADPHd positive, while the remaining cells were positively only for NADPHd staining. One week after application of true blue on the middle cerebral arteries (MCA), the fluorescent true blue was found in the ganglionic cells of the SPG. Some of the true blue-positive cells contained both ChAT-immunoreactivity and NADPHd staining. These results provide morphological evidence indicating that all ChAT-I fibers in the MCA and the circle of Willis contain NOS, and that these fibers originate in the SPG, although not all NOS-I ganglionic cells in the SPG send fibers to pial vessels. These results also support the hypothesis that acetylcholine (ACh) and nitric oxide (NO) are synthesized and co-released in the same neurons in cerebral perivascular nerves. Based on the reported findings that NO mediates a major component of neurogenic vasodilation, and that ACh acts as a modulator, the present results demonstrate the presence of a cholinergic, nitric oxidergic innervation in cerebral arteries of the cat.

Effects of nonesterified fatty acids on glucose metabolism after glucose ingestion

Impaired suppression of plasma nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) after glucose ingestion may contribute to glucose intolerance, but the mechanisms are unclear. Evidence that insulin inhibits hepatic glucose output (HGO), in part by suppressing plasma NEFA levels, suggests that impaired suppression of plasma NEFA after glucose ingestion would impair HGO suppression and increase the systemic delivery of glucose. To test this hypothesis, we studied glucose kinetics (constant intravenous [3-3H]glucose [0.4 microCi/min], oral [1-14C]glucose [100 microCi]), whole-body substrate oxidation, and leg glucose uptake in eight normal subjects (age, 39 +/- 9 years [mean +/- SD]; BMI, 24 +/- 2 kg/m2) in response to 75 g oral glucose on two occasions. In one study, plasma NEFAs were prevented from falling by infusion of 20% Liposyn (45 ml/h) and heparin (750 U/h). Plasma glucose rose more rapidly during lipid infusion (P < 0.05), and mean levels tended to be higher after 120 min (6.45 +/- 0.41 vs. 5.81 +/- 0.25 SE, 0.1 < P < 0.05, NS); peak glucose levels were similar. Total glucose appearance (Ra) was higher during lipid infusion due to a higher HGO (28.4 +/- 1.0 vs. 21.2 +/- 1.5 g over 4 h, P < 0.005). Total glucose disposal (Rd) was also higher (88 +/- 2 vs. 81 +/- 3 g in 4 h, P < 0.05). Plasma insulin rose more rapidly after glucose ingestion with lipid infusion, and leg glucose uptake was 33% higher (P < 0.05) during the 1st hour. During lipid infusion, subjects oxidized less glucose (47 +/- 3 vs. 55 +/- 2 g, P < 0.05) and more fat (7.1 +/- 0.8 vs. 3.9 +/- 0.9 g, P < 0.02). In summary, 1) impaired suppression of NEFAs after oral glucose impairs insulin's ability to suppress HGO, and 2) in normal subjects the greater insulin response compensates for the increased systemic glucose delivery by increasing peripheral glucose Rd.

Morphologic evidence for L-citrulline conversion to L-arginine via the argininosuccinate pathway in porcine cerebral perivascular nerves

Results from biochemical and pharmacologic studies suggest that Lcitrulline is taken up by cerebral perivascular nerves and is converted to Larginine for synthesizing nitric oxide (NO). The current study was designed using morphologic techniques to determine whether Lcitrulline is taken up into axoplasm of perivascular nerves and to explore the possibility that conversion of Lcitrulline to Larginine in these nerves is through the argininosuccinate pathway in porcine cerebral arteries. Results from light and electron microscopic autoradiographic studies indicated that dense silver grains representing L-[3H] citrulline uptake were found in cytoplasm of perivascular nerves, smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells. The neuronal silver grains were significantly decreased in arteries pretreated with glutamine, which has been shown biochemically to block neuronal uptake of Lcitrulline. Results from light and electron microscopic immunohistochemical and histochemical studies indicate that dense nitric oxide synthase-immunoreactive (NOS-I), argininosuccinate synthetase-immunoreactive (ASS-I), and argininosuccinate lyase-immunoreactive (ASL-I) fibers were found in the adventitia of cerebral arteries. NOS-, ASS-, and ASL-immunoreactivities fibers were found in the axoplasm and in the endothelium. In whole-mount preparations, the NOS-I, ASS-I, and ASL-I fibers were completely coincident with NADPH diaphorase fibers, suggesting that axoplasmic ASS, ASL, and NOS were co-localized in the same neurons. These studies provide the first morphologic evidence indicating that Lcitrulline is taken up into cytoplasm of cerebral perivascular nerves and that the axoplasmic enzymes catalyzing the conversion of Lcitrulline to Larginine (for synthesizing NO) by argininosuccinate pathway always are co-localized in same neurons. These results support the hypothesis that Lcitrulline, the by-product of NO synthesis, is recycled to form Larginine for synthesizing NO in perivascular nerves to mediate cerebral neurogenic vasodilation. Results of the current morphologic studies also support the presence of Lcitrulline-Larginine cycle in cerebral vascular endothelium.

[Studies on the chemical constituents of Annona muricata]

Annonaceous acetogenin (or polyketide) is a kind of potential antineoplastic agents from Annonaceae plants. Two new acetogenins, Muricatalicin (I) and muricatalin (VI), a mesitoate of a new acetogenin, annonacin-B mesitoate (Vb), and three known acetogenins, annonacin (II), annonacin-A (III) and annonacin-10-one (IV) have been isolated from Annona muricata L. The structures and relative stereochemistry of I, VI and Vb were elucidated on the basis of spectral analysis and examination of their acetates and/or mesitoate.

Structure of pp32, an acidic nuclear protein which inhibits oncogene-induced formation of transformed foci

pp32 is a nuclear protein found highly expressed in normal tissues in those cells capable of self-renewal and in neoplastic cells. We report the cloning of cDNAs encoding human and murine pp32. The clones encode a 28.6-kDa protein; approximately two-thirds of the N-terminal predicts an amphipathic alpha helix containing two possible nuclear localization signals and a potential leucine zipper motif. The C-terminal third is exceptionally acidic, comprised of approximately 70% aspartic and glutamic acid residues; the predicted pI of human pp32 is 3.81. Human and murine pp32 cDNAs are 88% identical; the predicted proteins are 89% identical and 95% similar. Although the structure of pp32 is suggestive of a transcription factor, pp32 did not significantly modulate transcription of a reporter construct when fused to the Gal4 DNA-binding domain. In contrast, in cotransfection experiments, pp32 inhibited the ability of a broad assortment of oncogene pairs to transform rat embryo fibroblasts, including ras + myc, ras + jun, ras + E1a, ras + mutant p53, and E6 + E7. In related experiments, pp32 inhibited the ability of Rat 1a-myc cells to grow in soft agar, whereas it failed to affect ras-induced focus formation in NIH3T3 cells. These results suggest that pp32 may play a key role in self-renewing cell populations where it may act in the nucleus to limit their sensitivity to transformation.

[Effects of guifu dihuang pills extract on rabbit IgG accelerated mouse nephritis induced by nephrotoxic serum]

The effects of Guifu Dihuang Pills extract were observed in rabbit IgG accelerated mouse nephritis model induced by nephrotoxic serum. The results showed that this preparation could increase serum albumin, reduce urine protein, serum urea nitrogen and total cholesterol in serum, and improve the histological lesions in kidneys. The effects of Guifu Dihuang Pills extract in dosages of 0.3g/kg and 1.2g/kg were similar to those of cyclophosphamide 0.015g/kg.

[Studies on the structure of alpha-trans-bergamotenol from Chinese santalwood oil]

A new sesquiterpenol was isolated from santalwood oil (Santalum album L., Santalaceae). Its structure and relative stereochemistry were elucidated on the basis of spectral analysis (IR, MS, 1H-1H COSY, 13C-1H COSY and 1H-1H NOESY) as 9(10)Z, alpha-trans-bergamotenol (Ia).