Study of Drug Targets Associated With Oncogenesis and Cancer Cell Survival and the Therapeutic Activity of Engineered Ashwagandha Extract Having Differential Withanolide Constitutions

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) has gained worldwide popularity for a multitude of health benefits inclusive of cancer-preventive and curative effects. Despite numerous research data supporting the benefits of this wonder herb, the actual use of ashwagandha for cancer treatment in clinics is limited. The primary reason for this is the inconsistent therapeutic outcome due to highly variable composition and constitution of active ingredients in the plant extract impacting ashwagandha's pharmacology. We investigate here an engineered yield: an ashwagandha extract (Oncowithanib) that has a unique and fixed portion of active ingredients to achieve consistent and effective therapeutic activity. Using the MCF7 cell line, Oncowithanib was studied for its anti-neoplastic efficacy and drug targets associated with cell cycle regulation, translation machinery, and cell survival and apoptosis. Results demonstrate a dose-dependent decline in Oncowithanib-treated MCF7 cell viability and reduced colony-forming ability. Treated cells showed increased cell death as evidenced by enhancement of Caspase 3 enzyme activity and decreased expressions of cell proliferation markers such as Ki67 and Aurora Kinase A. Oncowithanib treatment was also found to be associated with expressional suppression of key cellular kinases such as RSK1, Akt1, and mTOR in MCF7 cells. Our findings indicate that Oncowithanib decreases MCF7 cell survival and propagation, and sheds light on common drug targets that might be good candidates for the development of cancer therapeutics. Further in-depth investigations are required to fully explore the potency and pharmacology of this novel extract. This study also highlights the importance of the standardization of herbal extracts to get consistent therapeutic activity for the disease indication.

Study of Drug Target Identification and Associated Molecular Mechanisms for the Therapeutic Activity and Hair Follicle Induction of Two Ashwagandha Extracts Having Differential Withanolide Constitutions

Background

Ashwagandha extracts play a significant role in traditional Indian medicine to help treat a wide range of disorders from amnesia, erectile dysfunction, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, stress, anxiety, and many more. Ashwagandha root is enriched with bioactive plant metabolites of which withanolides are the most important ones. The concentration and constitution of withanolides primarily determine ashwagandha's potency and pharmacology. Various factors modulate the withanolide constitution in the plant-derived extracts, rendering inconsistent therapeutic efficacy. Standardisation of the extraction protocol and a better understanding of the pharmacology mechanism of different extracts with varied withanolide constitutions is therefore critical for developing reliable, repeatable, and effective ashwagandha-based treatment.

Objectives

Here, we work toward defining indication mechanisms for two varieties of ashwagandha extract-ASHWITH (ASH-Ext1) and Regenolide (ASH-Ext2)-with different proprietary withanolide proportions.

Methods

ASH-Ext1 was studied for antioxidant signaling modulation using HEK293, HeLa, and A549 cells, and ASH-Ext2 was studied for subcellular drug targets associated with the reactivation and longevity of human hair follicles, using primary human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs).

Results

Study findings support the antioxidant activity and Nrf2 signaling modulation by ASH-Ext1 in various cell models. Of note, ASH-Ext2 was found to increase β-catenin and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) protein expression levels in HFDPCs.

Conclusion

The results of drug target modulation show us that the withanolide constitution associated with different extraction protocols influences the pharmacological potential of the extract significantly and points to the value of standardisation not only of total withanolide content but also of internal withanolide proportions.

Rapid quasi-periodic oscillations in the relativistic jet of BL Lacertae

Blazars are active galactic nuclei (AGN) with relativistic jets whose non-thermal radiation is extremely variable on various timescales^1-3. This variability seems mostly random, although some quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs), implying systematic processes, have been reported in blazars and other AGN. QPOs with timescales of days or hours are especially rare⁴ in AGN and their nature is highly debated, explained by emitting plasma moving helically inside the jet⁵, plasma instabilities^6,7 or orbital motion in an accretion disc^7,8. Here we report results of intense optical and γ-ray flux monitoring of BL Lacertae (BL Lac) during a dramatic outburst in 2020 (ref. ⁹). BL Lac, the prototype of a subclass of blazars¹⁰, is powered by a 1.7 × 10⁸ M_Sun (ref. ¹¹) black hole in an elliptical galaxy (distance = 313 megaparsecs (ref. ¹²)). Our observations show QPOs of optical flux and linear polarization, and γ-ray flux, with cycles as short as approximately 13 h during the highest state of the outburst. The QPO properties match the expectations of current-driven kink instabilities⁶ near a recollimation shock about 5 parsecs (pc) from the black hole in the wake of an apparent superluminal feature moving down the jet. Such a kink is apparent in a microwave Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) image.

POS0773 AUTOANTIBODIES IN A MULTI-INSTITUTIONAL INDIAN COHORT (INSPIRE) OF SLE PATIENTS: PREVALENCE, CLUSTER ANALYSIS AND PHENOTYPE ASSOCIATION

Background

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by an array of autoantibodies. Different autoantibodies have been associated with different clinical features like anti-dsDNA antibodies with nephritis and anti-phospholipid antibodies with pregnancy loss. However, the prevalence of autoantibodies has been variable across different ethnic groups. Data on the Indian population is limited.

Objectives

To assess the prevalence of different autoantibodies in a multi-institutional cohort (INSPIRE) of Indian SLE patients and to test their association with various clinical features using cluster analysis

Methods

The patients (n=1053) enrolled in a multi-institutional cohort of Indian patients (Indian SLE inception cohort for Research [INSPIRE]) were included.1 Antibodies were assayed using Immunoline (Euroimmune, Germany) 17 antigen kit. Anti-phospholipid antibodies (IgG and IgM anti-cardiolipin antibodies (ACLs), IgG anti-Beta 2 GpI antibodies) were measured using ELISA (Euroimmune). Lupus anticoagulant was available in a subset of patients.

The prevalence data for autoantibodies were analyzed using an intensity of only ++ and above on Immunoline assay as significant. Univariate analysis by Chi-square test was done to identify associations between individual autoantibodies and their clusters with clinical manifestations.

Results

The clinical features were fever in 702, alopecia in 813, oral ulcers in 628, acute cutaneous lupus (ACLE) in 520, proteinuria in 400, pleural effusion in 181, thrombocytopenia in 250 and autoimmune hemolytic anemia in 137 patients.

The prevalence of various autoantibodies by ELISA was anti-dsDNA antibodies in 70.2% (551/784), IgG Anti- beta-2 GpI in 4.47% (42/938), IgG ACL in 6.14% (61/992) and IgM ACL in 7.1% (54/760). Lupus anticoagulant was present in 13.9% (112/ 805). By Immunoline assay, the prevalence for anti-Ro 52, anti-Ro 60, anti-La and anti-Ribosomal P was 28.49%, 33.14%, 10.07% and 24.03% respectively (Table 1).

Table 1.

Prevalence of different autoantibodies in the INSPIRE lupus cohort

S. No.AutoantibodyPrevalence (%) (n=1053)1.dsDNA28.112.Nucleosomes27.833.Histones24.884.Ro_52_SSA28.495.Ro_60_SSA33.146.SSB-La10.077.Ribosomal P24.038.nRNP36.759.Sm33.1410.Scl-703.2311.PM-Scl0.3812.Jo-10.0913.CENP-B0.3814.PCNA1.3315.AMA-M22.28

Cluster analysis (Figure 1) revealed association (Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval) of Cluster 1 (antibodies against dsDNA, histones and nucleosomes) with arthritis (1.51 [1.18-1.94]), proliferative nephritis (3.05[2.08-4.48]) and pleural effusion (1.49[1.08-2.05]), cluster 2 (antibodies against Sm, nRNP, Ro52, Ro60 and Ribosomal P) with ACLE (1.3[1.02-1.65]) and non-proliferative nephritis (1.64[1.09-2.46]) and cluster 3 (antiphospholipid antibodies) with thrombocytopenia (3.34[1.57-7.11]).

Figure 1.

Cluster analysis of autoantibodies (Cluster 1: dsDNA, histone and nucleosome; cluster 2: Sm, nRNP, Ro52, Ro60 and Ribosomal P; cluster 3: cardiolipin, β2GP1 and La and lupus anticoagulant; cluster 4: Scl-70, Jo-1, PCNA, AMA-M2, PM-SCL and CENP-B)

Conclusion

The prevalence of anti-Sm antibody and Anti-Ribosomal P antibody is higher whereas that of anti-La antibody is lesser in the Indian SLE patients as compared to other cohorts of SLE patients with different ethnicities.2 Cluster analysis reveals co-occurrence of different autoantibodies in our patients and their significant association with various clinical manifestations which suggests a possible pathogenic role of autoantibodies or a common genetic basis for it.

References

[1]Shobha V, Aggarwal A, Rajasekhar L, Jain A, Gupta R, Das B, et al. Indian SLE Inception cohort for Research (INSPIRE): the design of a multi-institutional cohort. Rheumatol Int. 2021 May;41(5):887-894.

[2]Yang J, Xu Z, Sui M, Han J, Sun L, Jia X, et al. Co-Positivity for Anti-dsDNA, -Nucleosome and -Histone Antibodies in Lupus Nephritis Is Indicative of High Serum Levels and Severe Nephropathy. PLoS One. 2015 Oct 14;10(10):e0140441.

Disclosure of Interests

Amita Aggarwal: None declared, Ranjan Gupta Grant/research support from: Dr. Ranjan Gupta has received 2 grants for educating patients and primary care physicians about rheumatoid arthritis managment., Rudrarpan Chatterjee: None declared, Vir Negi: None declared, Bidyut Kumar Das: None declared, Parasar Ghosh: None declared, Debashish Danda: None declared, Vineeta Shobha: None declared

Pathophysiological relationship between hypoxia associated oxidative stress, Epithelial-mesenchymal transition, stemness acquisition and alteration of Shh/ Gli-1 axis during oral sub-mucous fibrosis and oral squamous cell carcinoma

Oral sub-mucous fibrosis (OSF) is a pathophysiological state of oral cavity or oropharynx having a high chance of conversion to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). It involves fibrotic transformation of sub-epithelial matrix along with epithelial abnormalities. The present work aims to unveil the mechanistic domain regarding OSF to OSCC conversion exploring the scenario of hypoxia associated oxidative stress, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis and stemness acquisition. The study involves histopathological analysis of the diseased condition along with the exploration of oxidative stress status, assessment of mitochondrial condition, immunohistochemical analysis of HIF-1α, E-cadherin, vimentin, ERK, ALDH-1, CD133, Shh, Gli-1 and survivin expressions in the oral epithelial region together with the quantitative approach towards collagen deposition in the sub-epithelial matrix. Oxidative stress was found to be associated with type-II EMT in case of OSF attributing the development of sub-epithelial fibrosis and type-III EMT in case of OSCC favoring malignancy associated metastasis. Moreover, the acquisition of stemness during OSCC can also be correlated with EMT. Alteration of Shh and Gli-1 expression pattern revealed the mechanistic association of hypoxia with the phenotypic plasticity and disease manifestation in case of OSF as well as OSCC. Shh/ Gli-1 signaling can also be correlated with survivin mediated cytoprotective phenomenon under oxidative stress. Overall, the study established the correlative network of hypoxia associated oxidative stress, EMT and manifestation of oral pre-cancerous and cancerous condition in a holistic approach that may throw rays of hope in the therapeutic domain of the concerned diseases.

0556 Sex-Specific Relationship Between Anxiety and Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction in Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Introduction

Cardiovascular co-morbidities in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are hard to treat, perhaps due to autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction. In OSA, intermittent hypoxia and poor tissue oxygen perfusion damage endothelial and nervous tissue, potentially underlying the dysfunction. Moreover, OSA is strongly associated with anxiety, which is independently associated with ANS dysfunction. We assessed sex-specific relationships between anxiety and cardiovascular markers of ANS dysfunction in OSA.

Methods

We studied people diagnosed with OSA and healthy controls. We collected 5 minutes of wakeful resting ECG, continuous non-invasive blood pressure, and respiration data. We calculated heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV; sympathetic-vagal balance related to brainstem ANS output), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), beat-to-beat MAP variability (BPV; related to peripheral autonomic function) and breathing rate (BR). We analyzed these measures with a multivariate regression model of anxiety symptoms (generalized anxiety disorder; GAD-7 scores), sex, and group (OSA vs. control), age/BMI/AHI covariates, and Bonferroni-corrected post-hoc comparisons (p≤0.05).

Results

We analyzed 64 subjects (32 OSA: AHI [mean±SEM] 24±4events/hour, 12 female, age 52±21years, BMI 33±2kg/m2; 32 control: 19 female, age 46±2; BMI 26±1). We observed significant main effects of anxiety, BMI, AHI, sex on HRV, but only group on BPV; post-hoc comparisons revealed high BPV only in OSA females. Secondary analyses included classifying by anxiety symptoms (GAD-7≥5), showing only OSA females with anxiety had higher BPV. Males showed higher HRV. AHI and anxiety were positively correlated with HRV in OSA males. AHI was negatively correlated with BR in OSA females.

Conclusion

We observed higher anxiety associated with higher BPV in OSA, especially in females. Unexpectedly, BR was lower in OSA females; longer breaths may have led to the greater BPV. Higher HRV in males complicated by OSA severity and anxiety could be related to higher sympathetic tone. The slightly older control group may have influenced the findings. Overall, our findings suggest anxiety in OSA is associated with peripheral and centrally-mediated autonomic dysfunction, but in a sex-specific manner.

Support

National Institutes of Health R56-NR-017435 and RO1-HL-135562.

Risk of bleeding in patients undergoing pulmonary procedures on antiplatelet or anticoagulants: A systematic review

As many as 25% of all patients undergoing invasive pulmonary procedures are receiving at least one antiplatelet or anticoagulant agent. For those undergoing elective procedures, the decision-making process is uncomplicated and the procedure may be postponed until the antiplatelet or anticoagulant agent may be safely held. However, many invasive pulmonary procedures are semi-elective or emergent in nature in which case a risk-benefit calculation and discussion occur between the provider and patient or surrogate decision-maker. Therefore, it is critical for providers to have an awareness of the risk of bleeding complications with different pulmonary procedures on various antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents. This systematic review summarizes the bleeding complications associated with different pulmonary procedures in patients on various antiplatelet or anticoagulant agents in the literature and reveals a paucity of high-quality evidence across a wide spectrum of pulmonary procedures and antiplatelet or anticoagulant agents. The results of this review can help inform providers of the bleeding risk in these patients to aid in the shared decision-making process and risk vs benefit discussion.

Genomic insult oriented mitochondrial instability and proliferative hindrance in the bone marrow of aplastic mice including stem/progenitor population

Aplastic anemia is the bone marrow failure condition characterized by the development of hypocellularity in both marrow and peripheral blood compartments. Anti-tumor chemotherapeutic agents often exert secondary effect on hematopoietic system leading to aplastic anemia by marrow failure. The precise mechanisms behind the marrow ablative effects of the drugs remain yet to be established. The present study holds a mechanistic approach to unveil the mystery. Aplastic anemia was generated in mice with the administration of busulfan and cyclophosphamide followed by the characterization of the disease with peripheral blood hemogram, histopathological and cytochemical examinations of bone marrow. To gain deep knowledge about the molecular mechanisms of the hematopoietic disruption, cytotoxicity assay, DNA damage measurement, apoptosis study, replicative senescence analysis, redox balance study, mitochondrial membrane potential change assessment, flowcytometric expressional analysis of p21, p53, ATM, Chk-2, Necdin, Gfi-1, c-myc, KU-80 and Sod-2 were done with marrow hematopoietic stem/ progenitor cells (HSPCs). Severe blood pancytopenia and marrow hypocellularity was found in aplastic mice. Proliferative hindrance and apoptosis of marrow cells were identified as the cause behind the hematopoietic catastrophe. The genotoxic effects of the drugs triggered chromatin damage and induced replicative senescence in aplastic HSPCs by upregulating p21 in a p53 independent manner. Moreover, accumulation of genomic insults also caused apoptotic elimination of marrow cells due to disruption of mitochondrial membrane potential by generating redox imbalance. The study established the underlying mechanisms behind hematopoietic disruption during drug induced marrow aplasia. Outcome of the study may be helpful in successful designing of therapeutic strategies for the disease concerned.

Towards characterization of photo-excited electron transfer and catalysis in natural and artificial systems using XFELs

The ultra-bright femtosecond X-ray pulses provided by X-ray Free Electron Lasers (XFELs) open capabilities for studying the structure and dynamics of a wide variety of biological and inorganic systems beyond what is possible at synchrotron sources. Although the structure and chemistry at the catalytic sites have been studied intensively in both biological and inorganic systems, a full understanding of the atomic-scale chemistry requires new approaches beyond the steady state X-ray crystallography and X-ray spectroscopy at cryogenic temperatures. Following the dynamic changes in the geometric and electronic structure at ambient conditions, while overcoming X-ray damage to the redox active catalytic center, is key for deriving reaction mechanisms. Such studies become possible by using the intense and ultra-short femtosecond X-ray pulses from an XFEL, where sample is probed before it is damaged. We have developed methodology for simultaneously collecting X-ray diffraction data and X-ray emission spectra, using an energy dispersive spectrometer, at ambient conditions, and used this approach to study the room temperature structure and intermediate states of the photosynthetic water oxidizing metallo-protein, photosystem II. Moreover, we have also used this setup to simultaneously collect the X-ray emission spectra from multiple metals to follow the ultrafast dynamics of light-induced charge transfer between multiple metal sites. A Mn-Ti containing system was studied at an XFEL to demonstrate the efficacy and potential of this method.

Therapeutic management of peritoneal ascitic sarcomatosis by Ruta graveolens: A study in experimental mice

RELEVANCE

Malignant peritoneal sarcomatosis related ascitic formation often leads to grave consequences but the therapeutic management of the fatal pathophysiological condition remains a rarely discussed issue. The present study investigates the anti-neoplastic activity of the plant alkaloid from Ruta graveolens on ascitic Sarcoma-180 bearing mice as a model of human malignant peritoneal ascites.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The efficacy of the loco-regional administration of Ruta graveolens on tumour cells was explored with cytopathological and cytotoxicological studies, along with the expressional modulation vital regulatory molecules viz. Chk2, c-Myc, CD95 and Aurora kinase.

RESULTS

The study revealed a series of anti-neoplastic events exerted by Ruta graveolens that included the boosting of anti-tumour immunity, generation of tumour cell cytotoxicity and disruption of cellular energetics which lead to the induction of apoptosis and simultaneous impairment of cell division in tumour cells. Expressional decline of c-Myc oncoproteins and mitosis promoter Aurora kinase A together with up regulation of vital tumour suppressor Chk-2 and apoptosis inducer CD 95 in ascitic tumour cells was also found to be associated with Ruta administration.

CONCLUSION

Our observations revealed that loco-regional Ruta administration resulted in the anti-neoplastic effect on peritoneal sarcoma related ascites and the alteration of vital regulatory molecules which depicted the therapeutic utility of Ruta in the management of peritoneal malignant ascites.

Umbrella Sampling and X-ray Crystallographic Analysis Unveil an Arg-Asp Gate Facilitating Inhibitor Binding Inside Phosphopantetheine Adenylyltransferase Allosteric Cleft

Phosphopantetheine adenylyltransferase (PPAT) is a rate-limiting enzyme essential for biosynthesis of coenzyme A (CoA), which in turn is responsible to regulate the secretion of exotoxins via type III secretion system in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, causing severe health concerns ranging from nosocomial infections to respiratory failure. Acetyl coenzyme A (AcCoA) is a newly reported inhibitor of PPAT, believed to regulate the cellular levels of CoA and thereby the pathogenesis. Very little is known so far regarding the mechanistic details of AcCoA binding inside PPAT-binding cleft. Herein, we have used extensive umbrella sampling simulations to decipher mechanistic insight into the inhibitor accommodation inside the binding cavity. We found that R90 and D94 residues act like a gate near the binding cavity to accommodate and stabilize the incoming ligand. Mutational models concerning these residues also show considerable difference in AcCoA-binding thermodynamics. To substantiate our findings, we have solved the first crystal structure of apo-PPAT from P. aeruginosa, which also found to agree with the simulation results. Collectively, these results describe the mechanistic details of accommodation of inhibitor molecule inside PPAT-binding cavity and also offer valuable insight into regulating cellular levels of CoA/AcCoA and thus controlling the pathogenicity.

Hematopathological alterations of major tumor suppressor cascade, vital cell cycle inhibitors and hematopoietic niche components in experimental myelodysplasia

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is a poorly understood dreadful hematopoietic disorder that involves maturational defect and abnormalities in blood cell production leading to dysplastic changes and peripheral blood pancytopenia. The present work aims in establishing the mechanistic relationship of the expressional alterations of major tumor suppressor cascade, vital cell cycle inhibitors and hematopoietic microenvironmental components with the disease pathophysiologies. The study involves the development of N-N' Ethylnitrosourea (ENU) induced mouse model of MDS, characterization of the disease with blood film and bone marrow smear studies, scanning electron microscopic observation, mitochondrial membrane potential determination, flowcytometric analysis of osteoblastic and vascular niche components along with the expressional study of cleaved caspase-3, PCNA, Chk-2, p53, Ndn, Gfi-1, Tie-2, Sdf-1, Gsk-3β, p18 and Myt-1 in the bone marrow compartment. Dysplastic features were found in peripheral blood of MDS mice which seemed to be the consequence of three marrow pathophysiological conditions viz; aberrant rise of cellular proliferation, increased apoptosis and crowding of abnormal blast population. Expressional decline of the p53 cascade involving Chk-2, p53, Ndn, Gfi-1 along with the downregulation of major cell cycle inhibitors seemed to be associated with the hyper-proliferative nature of bone marrow cells during MDS. Moreover the disruption of osteoblastic niche components added to the decreased hematopoietic quiescency. Increased marrow vascular niche components signified the pre-malignant state of MDS. Elevated cellular apoptosis and rise in the blast burden were also found to be associated with the p53 expression dependent collapsing of mitochondrial membrane potential and upregulation of Tie-2 respectively. The study established the mechanistic correlation between the alterations of the mentioned signaling components and hematopoietic anomalies during MDS which may be beneficial for the development of therapeutic strategies for the disease.

Analysis of hematopathology and alteration of JAK1/STAT3/STAT5 signaling axis in experimental myelodysplastic syndrome

Hematological disorders like myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) may arise due to cumulative dysregulation of various signalling pathways controlling proliferation, differentiation, maturation and apoptosis of bone marrow cells. This devastating bone marrow condition can be due to consequential abnormalities in haematopoiesis as well as its supportive microenvironment. Although mutations related to JAK/STAT pathway are common in myeloproliferative neoplasms, further studies are required to fully explore the myelodysplastic scenario regarding the concerned pathway. In this study, we have investigated the JAK-STAT signalling pathway which inevitably plays a crucial role in haematopoiesis. MDS was mimicked in a mouse model with an induction of ENU in adult mice. The bone marrow of the control and MDS groups of animals were subjected to a variety of tests, including cell morphology study in peripheral blood and bone marrow, cytochemistry and histochemistry of bone marrow smears, karyotyping and flowcytometric expression analysis of the phosphorylated forms of proteins like JAK1, STAT3 and STAT5 (denoted as pJAK1, pSTAT3 and pSTAT5) and the phenotypic expression of proteins like CD45 and CD71. The results revealed that the morphology of the blood and bone marrow cells were dysplastic compared to the affected blast populations of different lineages. The expression of common leucocyte antigen CD45 was less in comparison to the expression of transferrin receptor CD71 which was increased in the ENU induced MDS mouse model. Moreover, we have observed an upregulated expression of JAK1 followed by STAT5. Therefore, we can conclude that downregulation of CD45 may have helped in the upregulation of JAK-STAT signaling and CD71 expression. This aberrant signaling may be among one of the activated signaling axes that lead to affected hematopoietic lineages in Myelodysplastic syndrome.

Noncanonical Wnt5a-Ca(2+) -NFAT signaling axis in pesticide induced bone marrow aplasia mouse model: A study to explore the novel mechanism of pesticide toxicity

According to case-control studies, long-term pesticide exposure can cause bone marrow aplasia like hematopoietic degenerative disease leading to impaired hematopoiesis and increased risk of aplastic anemia in human subjects. However, the exact mechanism of pesticide mediated hematotoxicity still remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the role of noncanonical Wnt signaling pathway, a crucial regulator of adult hematopoiesis, in pesticide induced bone marrow aplasia mouse model. Aplasia mouse model was developed following inhalation and dermal exposure of 5% aqueous mixture of common agriculturally used pesticides for 6 h/day for 5 days a week up to 90 days. After that, blood hemogram, marrow smear, cellularity, scanning electron microscopy, extramedullary hematopoiesis and flowcytometric expression analysis of noncanonical Wnt signaling components, such as Wnt 5a, fzd5, NFAT, IFN-γ, intracellular Ca(2+) level were evaluated in the bone marrow hematopoietic stem/progenitor compartment of the control and pesticide induced aplasia groups of animals. Results showed that pesticide exposed mice were anemic with peripheral blood pancytopenia, hypocellular degenerative marrow, and extramedullary hematopoiesis in the spleen. Upon pesticide exposure, Wnt 5a expression was severely downregulated with a decline in intracellular Ca(2+) level. Moreover, downstream of Wnt5a, we observed sharp downregulation of NFATc2 transcription factor expression, the major target of pesticide toxicity and its target molecule IFN-γ. Taken together, our result suggests that deregulation of Wnt5a-Ca(2+) -NFAT signaling axis in the hematopoietic stem/progenitor compartment plays a crucial role behind the pathogenesis of pesticide mediated bone marrow aplasia by limiting primitive hematopoietic stem cells' ability to maintain hematopoietic homeostasis and reconstitution mechanism in vivo during xenobiotic stress leading to ineffective hematopoiesis and evolution of bone marrow aplasia. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 31: 1163-1175, 2016.

Deregulation of vital mitotic kinase-phosphatase signaling in hematopoietic stem/progenitor compartment leads to cellular catastrophe in experimental aplastic anemia

Aplastic anemia, the paradigm of bone marrow failure, is characterized by pancytopenic peripheral blood and hypoplastic bone marrow. Among various etiologies, inappropriate use of DNA alkylating drugs like cyclophosphamide and busulfan often causes the manifestation of the dreadful disease. Cell cycle impairment in marrow hematopoietic stem/progenitor compartment together with cellular apoptosis has been recognized as culpable factors behind aplastic pathophysiologies. However, the intricate molecular mechanisms remain unrevealed till date. In the present study, we have dealt with the mechanistic intervention of the disease by peripheral blood hemogram, bone marrow histopathology, cytopathology, hematopoietic kinetic study, scanning electron microscopy, DNA damage assessment and flowcytometric analysis of cellular proliferation and apoptosis in hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell (HSPC) rich marrow compartment using busulfan and cyclophosphamidemediated mouse model. To unveil the molecular mechanisms behind aplastic pathophysiology, we further investigated the role of some crucial mitotic and apoptotic regulators like Protein kinase-B (PKB), Gsk-3β, Cyclin-D1, PP2A, Cdc25c, Plk-1, Aurora kinase-A, Chk-1 regarding the hematopoietic catastrophe. Our observations revealed that the alteration of PKB-GSK-3β axis, Plk-1, and Aurora kinase-A expressions in HSPC compartment due to DNA damage response was associated with the proliferative impairment and apoptosis during aplastic anemia. The study established the correlation between the accumulation of DNA damage and alteration of the mentioned molecules in aplastic HSPCs that lead to the hematopoietic catastrophe. We anticipate that our findings will be beneficial for developing better therapeutic strategies for the dreadful disease concerned.

Alteration of classical and hematopoiesis specific p53 pathway in the bone marrow hematopoietic stem/progenitor compartment facilitates leukemia progression in experimental mice

Downregulation of p53 is associated with most of the neoplasms, however it claims additional significance for hematopoietic malignancy due to its supplementary role during hematopoiesis. Apart from the classical role as tumor suppressor, p53 during steady state hematopoiesis is associated with the maintenance of quiescent cell population in bone marrow by upregulating necdin (Ndn) and Gfi-1. We felt, it is necessary to delineate its attribution towards malignant conversion of hematopoietic system during leukemogenesis from all the possible angles. The present study deals with the characterization of N-N' Ethylnitrosourea (ENU) induced mouse model of leukemia by peripheral blood hemogram, bone marrow cytology, histology, cytochemical staining (MPO) and scanning electron microscopic study. We further investigated the alteration of conventional and hematopoiesis specific p53 pathways by flowcytometric expressional analysis of ATM, Chk-2, p53, p21, Ndn, Gfi-1 and Tie-2. The disruption of classical p53 pathway was observed in leukemic hematopoietic stem/progenitor population which involved downregulation of ATM, Chk-2, p53 and p21. Moreover, the expressional decline of Ndn and Gfi-1 hinted towards the mechanism of hindrance of hematopoietic quiescency in leukemic bone marrow. Increased expression of Tie-2 due to reverse correlation with p53 was found to be responsible for pathological angiogenesis in bone marrow together with increased blast burden in bone marrow during leukemia. The study presents the mechanistic scenario of the alteration of both classical as well as hematopoiesis specific p53 pathways in HSPC compartment triggering leukemic pathophysiology.

Differential expression of mitotic regulators and tumor microenvironment influences the regional growth pattern of solid sarcoma along the cranio-caudal axis

Soft tissue sarcomas are relatively rare, unusual, anatomically diverse group of malignancies. According to the recent literature and medical bulletins, tumor growth and aggressiveness immensely relies on its anatomical locations. However, it is unclear whether the cranio-caudal anatomical axis of the mammalian body can influence sarcoma development and the underlying molecular mechanisms are not yet deciphered. Here, we investigated the growth pattern of solid sarcoma implanted into the murine cranial and caudal anatomical locations and tried to explore the location specific expression pattern of crucial mammalian mitotic regulators such as Aurora kinase A, Histone H3 and c-Myc in the cranio-caudally originated solid tumors. In addition, the influence of local tumor microenvironment on regional sarcoma growth was also taken into consideration. We found that solid sarcoma developed differentially when implanted into two different anatomical locations and most notably, enhanced tumor growth was observed in case of cranially implanted sarcoma than the caudal sarcoma. Interestingly, Aurora kinase A and c-Myc expression and histone H3 phosphorylation level were comparatively higher in the cranial tumor than the caudal. In addition, variation of tumor stroma in a location specific manner also facilitated tumor growth. Cranial sarcoma microenvironment was well vascularized than the caudal one and consequently, a significantly higher microvessel density count was observed which was parallel with low hypoxic response with sign of local tumor inflammation in this region. Taken together, our findings suggest that differential gradient of mitotic regulators together with varied angiogenic response and local tumor microenvironment largely controls solid sarcoma growth along the cranio-caudal anatomical axis.

Nicotine and endometrial decidual growth in pseudopregnant rats

Purpose

The present study aims to investigate the effects of nicotine on the endometrial decidual growth and levels of estrogen and progesterone in pseudopregnant rats.

Methods

Pseudopregnancy (pc) was induced in cyclic Sprague-Dawley rats by sterile mating. Subcutaneous injection of nicotine tartrate (7.5 mg/kg/day) was scheduled from day 1 through day 5, day 5 through day 9 or day 1 through day 9 of pc. In another group of pseudopregnant rats, concomitant treatment of nicotine tartrate concurrently with progesterone (2 mg/day) was scheduled from day 1 through day 9 pc. Control groups received subcutaneous injections of vehicle only. Endometrial decidualization was induced on day 5 pc. On day 10 pc, animals were sacrificed.The degree of decidual growth and circulating levels of estrogen and progesterone were measured.

Results

The decidual growth in all the first three nicotine-treated groups of animals was significantly reduced, particularly in the animals treated with nicotine from day 1 through day 9 pc. Plasma estrogen levels were significantly elevated in animals treated with nicotine from day 1 through day 9 pc. Conversely, levels of plasma progesterone were found to be significantly attenuated in the same group of nicotine-treated animals compared to controls. Exogenous replacement of progesterone, however, caused a higher degree of endometrial decidualization compared to the nicotine-treated group but it was slightly less than when compared to control.

Conclusions

In conclusion, nicotine-induced progesterone deficiency with a corresponding elevation of estrogen may possibly attenuate the degree of endometrial decidualization in pseudopregnant rats.

Effect of lipid composition of cationic SUV liposomes on materno-fetal transfer of warfarin across the perfused human term placenta

INTRODUCTION

Use of drugs that cross the placenta freely are currently avoided during pregnancy. We investigated whether cationic small unilamellar (SUV) liposomes of different lipid compositions could prevent the transfer and uptake of warfarin across human term placenta.

METHODS

Cationic liposomes encapsulated warfarin was prepared by using lecithin (F-SUV) or sterylamine (S-SUV) with cholesterol and stearylamine. The size distribution, encapsulation efficiency, and stability were determined in blood-based media. The transfer kinetics of free and liposomally encapsulated warfarin were studied in a dually perfused isolated lobule of human term placenta with creatinine. Concentrations of warfarin were measured by fluorimetry. Data are expressed as % of initial dose added and given as mean ± sd.

RESULTS

Warfarin crossed the placenta freely (14.9 ± 1.1%). Trans placental transfer of warfarin was significantly reduced by F-SUV (6.4 ± 0.6%; P < 0.001) and S-SUV liposomes (5.0 ± 0.8%; P < 0.001). Placental uptake of F-SUV (6.3 ± 1.7%; P < 0.001) was greater than that of S-SUV liposomes (2.2 ± 0.5%; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that cationic liposomes reduce trans placental transfer of warfarin. If confirmed "in vivo", liposomes might provide an alternative non-invasive method of drug delivery to the mother.

Differential remodeling of cadherins and intermediate cytoskeletal filaments influence microenvironment of solid and ascitic sarcoma

Different forms of sarcoma (solid or ascitic) often pose a critical medical situation for pediatric or adolescent group of patients. To date, predisposed genetic anomalies and related changes in protein expression are thought to be responsible for sarcoma development. However, in spite of genetic abnormality, role of tumor microenvironment is also indispensable for the evolving neoplasm. In our present study, we characterized the deferentially remodeled microenvironment in solid and ascitic tumors by sequential immunohistochemistry and flowcytometric analysis of E-cdaherin, N-cadherin, vimentin, and cytokeratin along with angiogenesis and metastasis. In addition, we considered flowcytometric apoptosis and CD133 positive cancer stem cell analysis. Comparative hemogram was also considered as a part. Our investigation revealed that both types of tumor promoted neovascularization over time with sign of local inflammation. Invasion of neighboring skeletal muscle by solid sarcoma was more frequent than its ascitic counterpart. In contrary, rapid and earlier cadherin switching (E-cadherin to N-cadherin) in ascitic sarcoma made them more aggressive than that of solid sarcoma and helped to early metastasize distant tissue like liver through the hematogenous route. Differential cadherin switching and infidelity of cytokeratin expression in Vimentin positive sarcoma also influenced the behavior of ascitic CD133+ cancer initiating cell pool with respect to CD133+ cells housed in solid sarcoma. Therefore our study concludes that differential cadherin switching program and infidelity of intermediate filaments in part, sharply discriminate the severity and metastatic potentiality of either type of sarcoma accompanying with CD133+ cellular repertoire. Besides, tumor phenotype-based dichotomous cadherin switching program could be exploited as a future drug target to manage decompensated malignant ascitic and solid sarcoma.

Chromosome structure and pairing preferences in autotetraploid rye (Secale cereale)

The influence of chromosome structure upon pairing behaviour during meiosis was investigated by comparing four autotetraploid genotypes of rye (Secale cereale) containing homologous chromosome sets with different degrees of structural similarity. The series provided a range of genotypes that, at one extreme, contained structurally identical chromosome sets and, at the other extreme, sets that are certainly more heterozygous in the genic sense and probably also more diverse from a purely structural viewpoint. Relative frequencies of pairing configurations at meiotic prophase and metaphase I were compared by electron microscopy of whole-mount surface-spread synaptonemal complex complements and light microscopy of squash preparations. Despite unexpectedly low quadrivalent frequencies over all four genotypes, higher mean bivalent frequencies appeared to be associated with greater homologue diversity. In other words, greater structural divergence between chromosome sets appears to facilitate more efficient discrimination between homologous and identical chromosomes that drives the formation of bivalents. Statistical comparisons were not able to confirm in some cases the significance of the observed pattern of pairing behaviour.

17-AAG mediated targeting of Hsp90 limits tert activity in peritoneal sarcoma related malignant ascites by downregulating cyclin D1 during cell cycle entry

AIM

Peritoneal or retro-peritoneal sarcomatosis related malignant ascites formation is a rare but serious consequence of the locoregional metastatic event. The present work aimed to study the effect of the Hsp90 inhibitor (17-AAG), an ansamycin analog, on cell cycle and DNA replication specific chaperone-clients interaction in the event of peritoneal sarcoma related malignant ascites formation in mouse model at the late stage of malignant growth.

METHODS

We administered 17-AAG, an Hsp90 inhibitor, divided doses (330 μg/kg b.w./day for first five days then next ten days with166 μg/kg b.w./day) through intra-peritoneal route of inbred Swiss albino mice bearing full grown peritoneal malignant ascites of sarcoma-180. Our study was evaluated by peripheral blood hemogram analysis, malignant ascitic cytology, cell viability test, survival time and mitotic indexing. Furthermore, flowcytometric HSP90, TERT, CyclinD1, PCNA and GM-CSF expression analysis has been considered for special objective of the study.

RESULTS

Our experimental efforts reduced the aggressive proliferation of malignant ascites by drastic downregulation of TERT and cyclin D1 on the verge of cell cycle entry along with DNA replication processivity factor PCNA by directly modulating their folding machinery - heat shock protein 90. Consequently, we observed that malignant ascitic cells became error prone during the event of karyokinesis and produced micronucleus containing malignant cells with low viability. Peripheral neutrophilia due to over-expression of GM-CSF by the peritoneal malignant ascites were also controlled by the treatment with 17-AAG and overall, the treatment modality improved the median survival time.

CONCLUSION

Finally we can conclude that 17AAG administration might serve as a prospective pharmacological agent for the management of peritoneal sarcoma related malignant ascites and throws light towards prolonged survival of the patients concerned.

A comparative study of magnetic and dielectric behaviors for La(1-x)Bi(x)Mn(1-y)Fe(y)O3 series (with x = 0.5, 0.7 and y = 0.3, 0.7)

We have carried out an extensive investigation into the effect of doping on both the A- and B-sites for the multiferroic La(0.5)Bi(0.5)Mn(0.5)Fe(0.5)O(3) in relation to its physical properties. The temperature dependent magnetization and dielectric response are determined for different percentages of Bi- and Fe-substitutions. For La(0.5)Bi(0.5)Mn(0.7)Fe(0.3)O(3), there is a prominent ferromagnetic transition T(C) around 110 K, whereas the other La(0.5)Bi(0.5)Mn(0.3)Fe(0.7)O(3) and La(0.3)Bi(0.7)Mn(0.3)Fe(0.7)O(3) phases fail to exhibit any clear transition. On the other hand, for the Fe-rich phases, the coercive field increases to 2450 Oe compared to 1720 Oe (for the Mn-rich phase). All the compositions exhibit coexistence of ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic phases at low temperatures. The temperature dependent dielectric constant of the investigated samples varies from 32,000 to 500 at room temperature and the data has been analyzed using the universal dielectric response model.

Potassium intake and risk of incident type 2 diabetes mellitus: the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Serum potassium has been found to be a significant predictor of diabetes risk, but the effect of dietary potassium on diabetes risk is not clear. We sought to determine if dietary potassium is associated with risk of incident type 2 diabetes in young adults.

METHODS

We used data from the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. Potassium intake was measured by (1) an average of three 24 h urinary potassium collections at the 5-year study visit, and (2) the CARDIA dietary assessment instrument at baseline. Incident type 2 diabetes cases were ascertained on the basis of use of diabetes medication and laboratory measurements. Analyses were adjusted for relevant confounders including intake of fruit and vegetables and other dietary factors.

RESULTS

Of 1,066 participants with urinary potassium measurements, 99 (9.3%) developed diabetes over 15 years of follow-up. In multivariate models, adults in the lowest urinary potassium quintile were more than twice as likely to develop diabetes as their counterparts in the highest quintile (HR 2.45; 95% CI 1.08, 5.59). Of 4,754 participants with dietary history measurements, 373 (7.8%) developed diabetes over 20 years of follow-up. In multivariate models, African-Americans had a significantly increased risk of diabetes with lower potassium intake, which was not found in whites.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

Low dietary potassium is associated with increased risk of incident diabetes in African-Americans. Randomised clinical trials are needed to determine if potassium supplementation, from either dietary or pharmacological sources, could reduce the risk of diabetes, particularly in higher-risk populations.

HIV encephalopathy in a child in the presence of a high CD4 count: a rare presentation

A two-year-old girl presented with regression of developmental milestones for the last three and a half months. She was diagnosed as HIV-positive, but her CD4 count was found to be normal. Computed tomography (CT) scan of her brain showed bilateral basal ganglia calcification with cortical atrophy. A final diagnosis of HIV encephalopathy was made which had occurred despite a normal CD4 count, which is extremely uncommon.

Awareness of cervical cancer among female students of premier colleges in Kolkata, India

In the absence of any nationwide cervical screening program, cancer of cervix remains a major public health problem for India. We here assessed knowledge levels of female college students about cervical cancer, its risk factors, the human papillomavirus (HPV) etiologic agent and Pap (Papanicolaou) smear testing for screening. We conducted a questionnaire survey of the students (N=630), aged 17 to 24 years, in Kolkata, India. Only 20% correctly identified cervix cancer as the most prevalent female cancer in India, while 43% were aware of the ages of occurrence. Though 41% thought sexual activity to be associated with cervical cancer, its risk factors, like, smoking, having multiple sex partners, cervical infections, early onset of sexual intercourse, multiple parity were recognized by 29%, 3%, 4%, 13% and 15%, respectively. The terms Pap test and HPV had been heard by 11% and 15 % of the students, respectively, and 75% of the students desired to have protective vaccination. Bivariate analysis revealed that educational stream, standard of the college and family size were significantly associated with knowledge levels. Additionally, multivariate regression analysis indicated city students were more knowledgeable than those from outside the city. It is imperative that women gather adequate knowledge on cervical cancer for the success of any program to control the disease. Wide and effective spreading of awareness about the disease among women must form an integral part of public health policy of government.

Hepatitis B Prevalence during pregnancy

In order to determine the efficacy of a new hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG), a phase 3, vertical transmission (mother to child) clinical interventional trial of hepatitis B virus (HBV) post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) was conducted at selected sites (n=15) throughout India. This required a large screening program for HBsAg positivity at prenatal clinics located in tertiary care hospitals. 36,379 pregnant women consented to be tested for Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) by Rapid Test and if positive-confirmed by ELISA. The weighted mean prevalence was 0.82% (95% CI, 0.72, 0.91). In conclusion, the prevalence of HBV carrier state during pregnancy in India in this study was low compared to previous reports.

Glucose challenge test screening for prediabetes and undiagnosed diabetes

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS

Diabetes prevention and care are limited by lack of screening. We hypothesised that screening could be done with a strategy similar to that used near-universally for gestational diabetes, i.e. a 50 g oral glucose challenge test (GCT) performed at any time of day, regardless of meal status, with one 1 h sample.

METHODS

At a first visit, participants had random plasma and capillary glucose measured, followed by the GCT with plasma and capillary glucose (GCTplasma and GCTcap, respectively). At a second visit, participants had HbA(1c) measured and a diagnostic 75 g OGTT.

RESULTS

The 1,573 participants had mean age of 48 years, BMI 30.3 kg/m(2) and 58% were women and 58% were black. Diabetes (defined by WHO) was present in 4.6% and prediabetes (defined as impaired glucose tolerance [2 h glucose 7.8-11.1 (140-199 mg/dl) with fasting glucose <or=6.9 (125 mg/dl)] and/or impaired fasting glucose with plasma glucose 6.1-6.9 mmol/l [110-125 mg/dl]) in 18.7%. The GCTplasma provided areas under the receiver-operating-characteristic curves of 0.90, 0.82 and 0.79 for detection of diabetes, diabetes or prediabetes, and prediabetes, respectively, all of which were higher than GCTcap, random and capillary glucose, and HbA(1c) (p < 0.02 for all). The performance of GCTplasma was unaffected by time after meals or time of day, and was better in blacks than whites, but otherwise comparable in men and women, and in groups with differing prevalence of glucose intolerance. GCTplasma screening would cost approximately US$84 to identify one person with previously unrecognised diabetes or prediabetes.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION

GCT screening for prediabetes and previously unrecognised diabetes would be accurate, convenient and inexpensive. Widespread use of GCT screening could help improve disease management by permitting early initiation of therapy aimed at preventing or delaying the development of diabetes and its complications.

Observation of zeroth-order band gaps in negative-refraction photonic crystal superlattices at near-infrared frequencies

We present the first observations of zero-n[over ] band gaps in photonic crystal superlattices consisting of alternating stacks of negative-index photonic crystals and positive-index dielectric materials in the near-infrared range. Guided by ab initio three-dimensional numerical simulations, the fabricated nanostructured superlattices demonstrate the presence of zeroth-order gaps in remarkable agreement with theoretical predictions across a range of different superlattice periods and unit cell variations. These volume-averaged zero-index superlattice structures present a new type of photonic band gap, with the potential for complete wave front control for arbitrary phase delay lines and open cavity resonances.

Achieving subdiffraction imaging through bound surface states in negative refraction photonic crystals in the near-infrared range

We report the observation of imaging beyond the diffraction limit due to bound surface states in negative refraction photonic crystals. We achieve an effective negative index figure of merit [-Re(n)/Im(n)] of at least 380, approximately 125x improvement over recent efforts in the near-infrared range, with a 0.4 THz bandwidth. Supported by numerical and theoretical analyses, the observed near-field resolution is 0.47lambda, clearly smaller than the diffraction limit of 0.61lambda. Importantly, we show this subdiffraction imaging is due to the resonant excitation of surface slab modes.

Preparation of nanosize polyaniline and its utilization for microwave absorber

Polyaniline powder in nanosize has been synthesized by chemical oxidative route. XRD, FTIR, and TEM were used to characterize the polyaniline powder. Crytallite size was estimated from XRD profile and also ascertained by TEM in the range of 15 to 20 nm. The composite absorbers have been prepared by mixing different ratios of polyaniline into procured polyurethane (PU) binder. The complex permittivity (epsilon' - jepsilon") and complex permeability (mu' - jmu") were measured in X-band (8.2-12.4 GHz) using Agilent network analyzer (model PNA E8364B) and its software module 85071 (version 'E'). Measured values of these parameters were used to determine the reflection loss at different frequencies and sample thicknesses, based on a model of a single layered plane wave absorber backed by a perfect conductor. An optimized polyaniline/PU ratio of 3:1 has given a minimum reflection loss of -30 dB (99.9% power absorption) at the central frequency 10 GHz and the bandwidth (full width at half minimum) of 4.2 GHz over whole X-band (8.2 to 12.4 GHz) in a sample thickness of 3.0 mm. The prepared composites can be fruitfully utilized for suppression of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and reduction of radar signatures (stealth technology).

Predictors of ovarian reserve in young women with breast cancer

Ovarian reserve can be diminished following treatment for breast cancer. This study evaluated biochemical and biophysical parameters of ovarian reserve in these patients. Biochemical and biophysical tests of ovarian reserve were performed simultaneously in young (age 22–42 years), regularly menstruating women with breast cancer (n=22) and age-matched controls (n=24). All tests were performed before (baseline) and after transient ovarian stimulation in the early follicular phase. Patients were recruited both before and after completion of chemotherapy, with some patients being followed up prospectively. Serum samples were analysed for follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), oestradiol (E₂), inhibins A and B, and antimullerian hormone (AMH). Biophysical (ultrasound) tests included ovarian volume, antral follicle count (AFC), ovarian stromal blood flow and uterine dimensions. Significant differences were revealed (when compared with the controls) for basal FSH (11.32±1.48 vs 6.62±0.42 mIU ml⁻¹, P<0.001), basal AMH (0.95±0.34 vs 7.89±1.62 ng ml⁻¹, P<0.001) and basal inhibin B (19.24±4.56 vs 83.61±13.45 pg ml⁻¹, P<0.001). Following transient ovarian stimulation, there were significant differences in the increment change (Δ) for inhibin B (3.02±2.3 vs 96.82±16.38 pg ml⁻¹, P<0.001) and E₂ (107.8±23.95 vs 283.2±40.34 pg ml⁻¹, P<0.01). AFC was the only biophysical parameter that was significantly different between patients and the controls (7.80±0.85 vs 16.77±1.11, P<0.001). Basal and stimulated biochemical (serum AMH, FSH, inhibin B and E₂) and biophysical (AFC) tests may be potential markers of ovarian reserve in young women with breast cancer.

Leptin and bone turnover in monochorionic twins complicated by twin-twin transfusion syndrome

INTRODUCTION

To test the hypothesis that the bone metabolism of a growth-restricted foetus is regulated by genetic, placental and/or foetal factors through leptin, we investigated the foetal bone turnover in monochorionic pregnancies complicated with or without twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS).

METHODS

Maternal and cord bloods were collected from gestational-age-matched monochorionic twins with (n=15) and without (n=15) TTTS. The samples were assayed for leptin, cross-linked carboxyl terminal telo-peptide (ICTP, a marker of bone resorption) and pro-peptide (PICP, a marker of bone formation) of type I collagen by radioimmunoassay (RIA).

RESULTS

In the growth-restricted donor twin, the plasma concentration of leptin (P < 0.001), PICP (P < 0.001) was lower, while that of ICTP (P < 0.001) was higher than the recipient twin of the TTTS group. In contrast, leptin, PICP and ICTP were comparable in non-TTTS twins. In the recipient twin of TTTS and non-TTTS twins, leptin was positively associated with PICP (r=0.73; n=45, P < 0.001) and negatively with ICTP (r=-0.68; n=45; P < 0.001). No such association was found between leptin and bone marker in the growth-restricted donor twin of the TTTS group.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggest that, in AGA twins, leptin maintains bone metabolism by inhibiting resorption and enhancing bone formation. In contrast, growth-restricted donor twins have high bone turnover and this does not seem to be due to leptin deficiency.

HPV viral load determination during pregnancy as a possible cervical cancer risk

Pregnancy may be a risk factor for cervical human papillomavirus (HPV) infection due to associated increased hormonal level and immunosuppression. Although a majority of such infections are transient, persistent infection may lead to premalignant/malignant cervical lesion. The viral burden is thought to be an indicator for persistence of the infection and malignant transformation. To assess pregnancy as a risk factor for cervical HPV infection, we compared HPV prevalence and viral load among 25 pregnant women to those of 24 non-pregnant and 28 cervical cancer cases. HPV DNA was detected in the cervical cells by PCR using MY09/MY11 primers. HPV positive cases were retested with a low stringency PCR method to ascertain the viral load. HPV prevalences of 68%, 25% and 89% were observed among pregnant women, non-pregnant women and in the cervical cancer cases, respectively. High viral load was frequently (40%) observed in cervical cancer patients. Median viral copy number/cell did not vary much between the non-pregnant and pregnant women. However, pregnant women had a predominantly moderate viral load whereas the low viral load was more frequent in non-pregnant women. High viral load was found to be associated with the presence of HPV 16 in the cervical cancer cases as compared to pregnant/non-pregnant HPV infected women.

Interleukin-10 promoter polymorphisms and atopic asthma in North Indians

BACKGROUND

IL-10 is an anti-inflammatory cytokine primarily produced by monocytes and macrophages and plays a key role in asthma. IL10 gene, present in chromosome 1q31-q32, is regulated primarily by transcription and its expression is found to be lower in asthmatics. Earlier studies in diverse populations have identified several promoter polymorphisms. However, no study has been carried out in a genetically untapped large population from the Indian Subcontinent.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association of the IL10 promoter polymorphisms and asthma in the North Indian population.

METHODS

The association study was conducted in a case-control as well as in a family-based design. Polymorphism at -1082 A/G, -819 C/T and -592 C/A nucleotides were genotyped in ethnically matched unrelated patients (N=272), unrelated controls (N=307) and nuclear families (N=164).

RESULTS

A suggestive evidence of association was obtained for -1082 A/G polymorphism at the level of alleles and genotypes with asthma in the case-control study (P=0.03). A three-locus haplotype (ATA) was found to be more in asthmatics than in control individuals (P=0.0085). On the other hand, a novel haplotype ATC was found to be more in controls than in asthmatics (P=0.012). These results were further tested in a family-based study. A deviation of transmission was observed for the -1082 A/G polymorphism (P=0.003). The ATA haplotype showed a preferential transmission in asthmatics (P=0.03), while the GCC and a novel ATC haplotype showed preferential non-transmission in asthmatic individuals (P=0.03 and 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Using both case-control and family studies, we provide suggestive evidence that the ATA haplotype is positively, whereas GCC and a novel ATC haplotypes of IL10 gene are negatively associated with asthma in Indian population. Our results are interesting enough as to intensify further research to elucidate the functional significance of these single-nucleotide polymorphisms and haplotypes in asthma pathogenesis.