Measurement of the ^{13}C(α, n_{0})^{16}O Differential Cross Section from 0.8 to 6.5 MeV

The cross section of the ^{13}C(α,n)^{16}O reaction is needed for nuclear astrophysics and applications to a precision of 10% or better, yet inconsistencies among 50 years of experimental studies currently lead to an uncertainty of ≈15%. Using a state-of-the-art neutron detection array, we have performed a high resolution differential cross section study covering a broad energy range. These measurements result in a dramatic improvement in the extrapolation of the cross section to stellar energies potentially reducing the uncertainty to ≈5% and resolving long standing discrepancies in higher energy data.

Critical role of lncEPAT in coupling dysregulated EGFR pathway and histone H2A deubiquitination during glioblastoma tumorigenesis

Histone 2A (H2A) monoubiquitination is a fundamental epigenetics mechanism of gene expression, which plays a critical role in regulating cell fate. However, it is unknown if H2A ubiquitination is involved in EGFR-driven tumorigenesis. In the current study, we have characterized a previously unidentified oncogenic lncRNA (lncEPAT) that mediates the integration of the dysregulated EGFR pathway with H2A deubiquitination in tumorigenesis. LncEPAT was induced by the EGFR pathway, and high-level lncEPAT expression positively correlated with the glioma grade and predicted poor survival of glioma patients. Mass spectrometry analyses revealed that lncEPAT specifically interacted with deubiquitinase USP16. LncEPAT inhibited USP16's recruitment to chromatin, thereby blocking USP16-mediated H2A deubiquitination and repressing target gene expression, including CDKN1A and CLUSTERIN. Depletion of lncEPAT promoted USP16-induced cell cycle arrest and cellular senescence, and then repressed GBM cell tumorigenesis. Thus, the EGFR-lncEPAT-ubH2A coupling represents a previously unidentified mechanism for epigenetic gene regulation and senescence resistance during GBM tumorigenesis.

Understanding the roles of N6-methyladenosine writers, readers and erasers in breast cancer

Breast cancer is believed to be driven by epigenetic regulation of genes implicated in cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Recently, aberrant N⁶-methyladenosine (m⁶A) decorations turned up as crucial epigenetic regulator for malignant breast cancer, which may serve as new targets for breast cancer treatment. Here we briefly outline the functions of m⁶A and its regulatory proteins, including m⁶A “writers,” “readers,” and “erasers” on RNA life fate, recapitulate the latest breakthroughs in understanding m⁶A modification and its regulatory proteins, and the underlying molecular mechanisms that contribute to the carcinogenesis and the progression of breast cancer, so as to provide potential epigenetic targets for diagnosis, treatment and prognosis in breast cancer.

EGFR/SRC/ERK-stabilized YTHDF2 promotes cholesterol dysregulation and invasive growth of glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common type of adult malignant brain tumor, but its molecular mechanisms are not well understood. In addition, the knowledge of the disease-associated expression and function of YTHDF2 remains very limited. Here, we show that YTHDF2 overexpression clinically correlates with poor glioma patient prognosis. EGFR that is constitutively activated in the majority of GBM causes YTHDF2 overexpression through the EGFR/SRC/ERK pathway. EGFR/SRC/ERK signaling phosphorylates YTHDF2 serine39 and threonine381, thereby stabilizes YTHDF2 protein. YTHDF2 is required for GBM cell proliferation, invasion, and tumorigenesis. YTHDF2 facilitates m6A-dependent mRNA decay of LXRA and HIVEP2, which impacts the glioma patient survival. YTHDF2 promotes tumorigenesis of GBM cells, largely through the downregulation of LXRα and HIVEP2. Furthermore, YTHDF2 inhibits LXRα-dependent cholesterol homeostasis in GBM cells. Together, our findings extend the landscape of EGFR downstream circuit, uncover the function of YTHDF2 in GBM tumorigenesis, and highlight an essential role of RNA m6A methylation in cholesterol homeostasis.

Correction: Shi, H., et al. Arctigenin Attenuates Breast Cancer Progression through Decreasing GM-CSF/TSLP/STAT3/β-Catenin Signaling. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2020, 21, 6357

The authors wish to make the following correction to this paper [...].

Arctigenin Attenuates Breast Cancer Progression through Decreasing GM-CSF/TSLP/STAT3/β-Catenin Signaling

Invasive breast cancer is highly regulated by tumor-derived cytokines in tumor microenvironment. The development of drugs that specifically target cytokines are promising in breast cancer treatment. In this study, we reported that arctigenin, a bioactive compound from Arctium lappa L., could decrease tumor-promoting cytokines GM-CSF, MMP-3, MMP-9 and TSLP in breast cancer cells. Arctigenin not only inhibited the proliferation, but also the invasion and stemness of breast cancer cells via decreasing GM-CSF and TSLP. Mechanistically, arctigenin decreased the promoter activities of GM-CSF and TSLP via reducing the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65 which is crucial for the transcription of GM-CSF and TSLP. Furthermore, arctigenin-induced depletion of GM-CSF and TSLP inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation and β-catenin signaling resulting in decreased proliferation, invasion and stemness of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanism by which tumor-promoting cytokines regulate breast cancer progression and suggest that arctigenin is a promising candidate for cytokine-targeted breast cancer therapy.

Physiological wound assessment from coregistered and segmented tissue hemoglobin maps

A handheld near-infrared optical scanner (NIROS) was recently developed to map for effective changes in oxy- and deoxyhemoglobin concentration in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) across weeks of treatment. Herein, a coregistration and image segmentation approach was implemented to overlay hemoglobin maps onto the white light images of ulcers. Validation studies demonstrated over 97% accuracy in coregistration. Coregistration was further applied to a healing DFU across weeks of healing. The potential to predict changes in wound healing was observed when comparing the coregistered and segmented hemoglobin concentration area maps to the visual area of the wound.

Genotyping and characterization of Toxoplasma gondii strain isolated from pigs in Hubei province, central China

Toxoplasma gondii, a ubiquitous pathogen that infects nearly all warm-blooded animals and humans, can cause severe complications to the infected people and animals as well as serious economic losses and social problems. Here, one local strain (TgPIG-WH1) was isolated from an aborted pig fetus, and the genotype of this strain was identified as ToxoDB #3 by the PCR RFLP typing method using 10 molecular markers (SAG1, SAG2, alternative SAG2, SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, L358, PK1, C22-8, C29-2 and Apico). A comparison of the virulence of this isolate with other strains in both mice and piglets showed that TgPIG-WH1 was less virulent than type 1 strain RH and type 2 strain ME49 in mice, and caused similar symptoms to those of ME49 such as fever in piglets. Additionally, in piglet infection with both strains, the TgPIG-WH1 caused a higher IgG response and more severe pathological damages than ME49. Furthermore, TgPIG-WH1 caused one death in the 5 infected piglets, whereas ME49 did not, suggesting the higher virulence of TgPIG-WH1 than ME49 during piglet infection. Experimental infections indicate that the virulence of TgPIG-WH1 relative to ME49 is weaker in mice, but higher in pigs. This is probably the first report regarding a ToxoDB #3 strain from pigs in Hubei, China. These data will facilitate the understanding of genetic diversity of Toxoplasma strains in China as well as the prevention and control of porcine toxoplasmosis in the local region.

Impact of trauma centre capacity and volume on the mortality risk of incoming new admissions

INTRODUCTION

Trauma centre capacity and surge volume may affect decisions on where to transport a critically injured patient and whether to bypass the closest facility. Our hypothesis was that overcrowding and high patient acuity would contribute to increase the mortality risk for incoming admissions.

METHODS

For a 6-year period, we merged and cross-correlated our institutional trauma registry with a database on Trauma Resuscitation Unit (TRU) patient admissions, movement and discharges, with average capacity of 12 trauma bays. The outcomes of overall hospital and 24 hours mortality for new trauma admissions (NEW) were assessed by multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

There were 42 003 (mean=7000/year) admissions having complete data sets, with 36 354 (87%) patients who were primary trauma admissions, age ≥18 and survival ≥15 min. In the logistic regression model for the entire cohort, NEW admission hospital mortality was only associated with NEW admission age and prehospital Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and Shock Index (SI) (all p<0.05). When TRU occupancy reached ≥16 patients, the factors associated with increased NEW admission hospital mortality were existing patients (TRU >1 hour) with SI ≥0.9, recent admissions (TRU ≤1 hour) with age ≥65, NEW admission age and prehospital GCS and SI (all p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

The mortality of incoming patients is not impacted by routine trauma centre overcapacity. In conditions of severe overcrowding, the number of admitted patients with shock physiology and a recent surge of elderly/debilitated patients may influence the mortality risk of a new trauma admission.

LAMTOR5 raises abnormal initiation of O-glycosylation in breast cancer metastasis via modulating GALNT1 activity

During malignancy, perturbed O-glycosylation confers global influence on cancer progression. As a hallmark of cancer metastasis, GalNAc-type O-glycosylation initiation is aberrantly raised, but the regulatory mechanism is still mysterious. Here, we show that LAMTOR5 raises abnormal initiation of O-glycosylation in breast cancer metastasis. LAMTOR5 was highly expressed in adenocarcinoma and correlated with Tn antigen, a product of O-glycosylation initiation, in both clinical metastatic breast cancer specimens and secondary metastasis mouse model. LAMTOR5-modulated O-glycosylation initiating enzyme GALNT1 conferred Tn accumulation and predicted poor survival. Mechanistically, LAMTOR5 stimulated transcriptions of GALNT1 through coactivating c-Jun, and triggered dislocation of GALNT1 in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) via LAMTOR5 dependent-activation of c-Src. This unusual initiation of O-glycosylation resulted in the abundance of Tn modified glycoproteins, such as MUC1 and OPN. Collectively, our findings indicate that LAMTOR5/c-Jun/c-Src axis serves as the upstream regulator of abnormal O-glycosylation initiation and potential therapeutic targets in breast cancer metastasis.

Wnt-Induced Stabilization of KDM4C Is Required for Wnt/β-Catenin Target Gene Expression and Glioblastoma Tumorigenesis

Wnt/β-catenin signaling activates the transcription of target genes to regulate stem cells and cancer development. However, the contribution of epigenetic regulation to this process is unknown. Here, we report that Wnt activation stabilizes the epigenetic regulator KDM4C that promotes tumorigenesis and survival of human glioblastoma cells by epigenetically activating the transcription of Wnt target genes. KDM4C protein expression was upregulated in human glioblastomas, and its expression directly correlated with Wnt activity and Wnt target gene expression. KDM4C was essential for Wnt-induced gene expression and tumorigenesis of glioblastoma cells. In the absence of Wnt3a, protein kinase R phosphorylated KDM4C at Ser918, inducing KDM4C ubiquitination and degradation. Wnt3a stabilized KDM4C through inhibition of GSK3-dependent protein kinase R activity. Stabilized KDM4C accumulated in the nucleus and bound to and demethylated TCF4-associated histone H3K9 by interacting with β-catenin, promoting HP1γ removal and transcriptional activation. These findings reveal that Wnt-KDM4C-β-catenin signaling represents a novel mechanism for the transcription of Wnt target genes and regulation of tumorigenesis, with important clinical implications. SIGNIFICANCE: These findings identify the Wnt-KDM4C-β-catenin signaling axis as a critical mechanism for glioma tumorigenesis that may serve as a new therapeutic target in glioblastoma.

MicroRNA-544 inhibits inflammatory response and cell apoptosis after cerebral ischemia reperfusion by targeting IRAK4

OBJECTIVE

Stroke remains the most common malignant cerebrovascular event in the world. The correlation between the expression of miR-544 and the degree of cerebral ischemia reperfusion (CIR) injury has not been well recognized in recent years. This study focuses on the effect of miR-544 on inflammation and apoptosis after CIR.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Plasma expression of miR-544 in ischemic stroke (IS) patients and healthy controls was determined by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The effects of miR-544 on cerebral infarction and neurological deficits were verified in vitro by tail vein injection of Ago-miR-544. Western blotting was utilized to examine protein expressions of key proteins involving in inflammation and apoptosis in mouse brain. Western blotting, immunofluorescence staining and luciferase assays were used to demonstrate whether miR-544 influences the expression of interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 (IRAK4), downstream inflammatory and apoptosis-related proteins.

RESULTS

MiR-544 was found decreased in peripheral blood of IS patients compared with healthy controls. MiR-544 has been shown to relieve neurological deficits and reduce the volume of cerebral infarction in mice. Overexpression of miR-544 ameliorated the inflammation and apoptotic responses in brain tissue after ischemia reperfusion by down-regulating the expression of IRAK4, whereas the low expression was opposite in vivo and in vitro.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that miR-544 may participate in controlling inflammation and apoptosis after ischemia-reperfusion by targeting IRAK4, providing possible diagnostic indicators and therapeutic targets for IS.

Correlations of neuronal apoptosis with expressions of c-Fos and c-Jun in rats with post-ischemic reconditioning damage

OBJECTIVE

Transcription factors (c-Fos and c-Jun) have been considered to play roles in the initiation of programmed nerve cell death. However, the roles of c-Fos and c-Jun protein expressions in neuronal apoptosis of rats with post-ischemic reconditioning damage were not clarified. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the correlations of protein expressions of c-Fos and c-Jun with neuronal apoptosis of rats with post-ischemic reconditioning damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rat models of post-ischemic reconditioning were established firstly. Then, apoptosis was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay, and the gene expression levels of apoptosis-related proteins [cytochrome c (Cyt c), B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax)] were detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Lastly, Western blotting was used to determine the protein expression levels of c-Fos and c-Jun, and the expressions of c-Fos and c-Jun in brain tissues of models were measured by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Treatment group had significantly increased malonaldehyde (MDA) level and significantly decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in rat cortex compared with those in control group (p<0.05). The number of TUNEL positive cells in the right cortex of rats in the treatment group was clearly higher than that in control group. Among them, post-ischemic reperfusion group had reduced level of Bax in the cytoplasm, but increased Bax level in the mitochondrion, and lowered expression level of Bcl-2 in both mitochondrion and cytoplasm in comparison with control group. Dynamic detection results of c-Jun were in synchronization with those of apoptosis proteins, and maximum expression occurred at 24 h after treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

c-Jun may play a role in the initiation of apoptotic cell death in these neurons.

Clostridium butyricum exerts a neuroprotective effect in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury via the gut-brain axis

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common occurrence following gastrointestinal dysfunction. Recently, more and more attentions are being focused on gut microbiota in brain and behavior. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is considered as a mediator that links the gut-brain axis. The aim of this study was to explore the neuroprotective effects of Clostridium butyricum (Cb) on brain damage in a mouse model of TBI.

METHODS

Male C57BL/6 mice were subjected to a model of TBI-induced by weight-drop impact head injury and were treated intragastrically with Cb. The cognitive deficits, brain water content, neuronal death, and blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability were evaluated. The expression of tight junction (TJ) proteins, Bcl-2, Bax, GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R), and phosphorylation of Akt (p-Akt) in the brain were also measured. Moreover, the intestinal barrier permeability, the expression of TJ protein and GLP-1, and IL-6 level in the intestine were detected.

RESULTS

Cb treatment significantly improved neurological dysfunction, brain edema, neurodegeneration, and BBB impairment. Meanwhile, Cb treatment also significantly increased the expression of TJ proteins (occludin and zonula occluden-1), p-Akt and Bcl-2, but decreased expression of Bax. Moreover, Cb treatment exhibited more prominent effects on decreasing the levels of plasma d-lactate and colonic IL-6, upregulating expression of Occludin, and protecting intestinal barrier integrity. Furthermore, Cb-treated mice showed increased the secretion of intestinal GLP-1 and upregulated expression of cerebral GLP-1R.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of Cb in TBI mice and the involved mechanisms were partially attributed to the elevating GLP-1 secretion through the gut-brain axis.

Oncoprotein HBXIP enhances HOXB13 acetylation and co-activates HOXB13 to confer tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer

Background

Resistance to tamoxifen (TAM) frequently occurs in the treatment of estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer. Accumulating evidences indicate that transcription factor HOXB13 is of great significance in TAM resistance. However, the regulation of HOXB13 in TAM-resistant breast cancer remains largely unexplored. Here, we were interested in the potential effect of HBXIP, an oncoprotein involved in the acceleration of cancer progression, on the modulation of HOXB13 in TAM resistance of breast cancer.

Methods

The Kaplan-Meier plotter cancer database and GEO dataset were used to analyze the association between HBXIP expression and relapse-free survival. The correlation of HBXIP and HOXB13 in ER+ breast cancer was assessed by human tissue microarray. Immunoblotting analysis, qRT-PCR assay, immunofluorescence staining, Co-IP assay, ChIP assay, luciferase reporter gene assay, cell viability assay, and colony formation assay were performed to explore the possible molecular mechanism by which HBXIP modulates HOXB13. Cell viability assay, xenograft assay, and immunohistochemistry staining analysis were utilized to evaluate the effect of the HBXIP/HOXB13 axis on the facilitation of TAM resistance in vitro and in vivo.

Results

The analysis of the Kaplan-Meier plotter and the GEO dataset showed that mono-TAM-treated breast cancer patients with higher HBXIP expression levels had shorter relapse-free survivals than patients with lower HBXIP expression levels. Overexpression of HBXIP induced TAM resistance in ER+ breast cancer cells. The tissue microarray analysis revealed a positive association between the expression levels of HBXIP and HOXB13 in ER+ breast cancer patients. HBXIP elevated HOXB13 protein level in breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, HBXIP prevented chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA)-dependent degradation of HOXB13 via enhancement of HOXB13 acetylation at the lysine 277 residue, causing the accumulation of HOXB13. Moreover, HBXIP was able to act as a co-activator of HOXB13 to stimulate interleukin (IL)-6 transcription in the promotion of TAM resistance. Interestingly, aspirin (ASA) suppressed the HBXIP/HOXB13 axis by decreasing HBXIP expression, overcoming TAM resistance in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions

Our study highlights that HBXIP enhances HOXB13 acetylation to prevent HOXB13 degradation and co-activates HOXB13 in the promotion of TAM resistance of breast cancer. Therapeutically, ASA can serve as a potential candidate for reversing TAM resistance by inhibiting HBXIP expression.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13045-018-0577-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Abstract P5-19-04: Psychosocial impact of a multi-modality surveillance program for women at high-risk for breast cancer

Purpose: To evaluate the psychosocial impact of semi-annual dynamic contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) screening in women at high-risk for breast cancer.

Background: For women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations and/or a personal or family history of breast cancer, annual breast MRI has shown improved sensitivity and cancer detection compared to mammography. However, MRI's heightened sensitivity may lead to increased: false positives requiring additional follow-up biopsy/imaging; iatrogenic risk; and psychosocial distress, which all may negatively impact women's overall health-related quality of life.

Methods: Between 2004 and 2016, we assembled a prospective cohort of high-risk women undergoing semi-annual DCE-MRI and annual mammography. We reviewed a subset of this group. Participants completed psychosocial assessments at baseline and 6-month visits using the following measures: coping (MBSS); state/trait anxiety (STAI-S/T); depression (BDI-II); risk perception; and mental health (SF-36). Participants were classified according to Monitor or Blunter coping style. Mixed-effects logistic regressions models examined effects of demographics on psychosocial changes over time.

Results: 295 women were recruited to the study; 44% of the study participants had pathogenic mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes. 232 of 295 enrolled participants (78.6%) completed psychosocial assessments. For the total population: median age 44y (range: 21-73), 71% ≥college/post-graduate education; 84% Caucasian; 8% African American; 2% Latino; 99% with health insurance; 72% annual income of &gt;$60,000. One third of women had a personal cancer history. Participants were evenly split between baseline Monitoring and Blunting coping style (49% and 51%, respectively). No significant differences were found between demographics (age, race, income, mutation, cancer type, cancer history) or psychosocial factors (baseline trait anxiety (p =0.64), depression (p =0.65), SF36 global health (p=0.66). After adjusting for education, race, cancer history and coping, women with ≥$60,000 income had lower trait anxiety (p&lt;0.000) and greater mental health (p&lt;0.001) than those with &lt;$60,000 income. Over time, change in trait anxiety varied by coping (p=0.0006): Blunters did not experience significant changes in trait anxiety (p=0.072) while Monitors had significant diminished trait anxiety over time (p&lt;0.001). For depression, women with ≥$60,000 income and college educated had lower BDI-II depression (p&lt;0.000). Yet, women with a cancer history had significantly greater BDH-II depression (p= 0.048). Mental health over time varied by race as non-whites had greater gains in mental health (p=0.001) over time than whites (p=0.03).

Conclusion: Semi-annual DCE-MRI did not cause a significantly elevated state anxiety or depression, nor was there a significant decline in mental health over time for groups regardless of cancer history and genetic mutation status. Coping style may have an impact on psychosocial outcomes for those undergoing heightened surveillance over time.

Citation Format: Amico AL, Fang R, Raoul A, Wroblewski K, Nielsen S, Weipert C, Abe H, Sheth D, Romero I, Kulkarni K, Schacht D, Patrick-Miller L, Verp M, Bradbury AR, Hlubocky F, Olopade OI. Psychosocial impact of a multi-modality surveillance program for women at high-risk for breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2017 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2017 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2018;78(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P5-19-04.

Hepatitis B X-interacting protein promotes the formation of the insulin gene-transcribing protein complex Pdx-1/Neurod1 in animal pancreatic β-cells

The activation of insulin gene transcription depends on multiple nuclear proteins, including the transcription factors PDX-1 and NEUROD1, which form a transcriptional complex. We recently reported that hepatitis B X-interacting protein (HBXIP, also termed LAMTOR5) can modulate glucose metabolism reprogramming in cancer cells. However, the physiological role of HBXIP in the modulation of glucose metabolism in normal tissues is poorly understood. Here, we report that Hbxip is an essential regulator of the effect of the Pdx-1/Neurod1 complex on insulin gene transcription in murine pancreatic β-cells in vitro and in vivo We found that pancreatic β-cell-specific Hbxip-knockout mice displayed higher fasting blood glucose levels and impaired glucose tolerance. Furthermore, Hbxip was involved in the regulation of insulin in the pancreas islets and increased insulin gene expression in rat pancreatic β-cells. Mechanistically, Hbxip stimulated insulin enhancer activity by interacting with Pdx-1 and recruiting Neurod1 to Pdx-1. Functionally, we provide evidence that Hbxip is required for Pdx-1/Neurod1-mediated insulin expression in rat pancreatic β-cells. Collectively, these results indicate that Hbxip is involved in the transcription of insulin by increasing the levels of the Pdx-1/Neurod1 complex in animal pancreatic β-cells. Our finding provides the insight into the mechanism by which Hbxip stimulates the transcription of the insulin gene.

Development and Evaluation of a Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (Lamp) Assay for the Detection of Haemonchus contortus in Goat Fecal Samples

Haemonchus contortus is one of the most significant strongylid nematodes infecting small ruminants, and it causes great economic losses to the livestock industry worldwide. Accurate diagnosis of H. contortus is crucial to control strategies. Traditional microscopic examinations are the most common methods for the diagnosis of H. contortus , but they are time-consuming and inaccurate. Molecular methods based on PCR are more accurate, but need expensive machines usually only used in the laboratory. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a rapid, simple, specific, and sensitive method that has been widely used to detect viruses, bacteria, and parasites. In the present study, a LAMP method targeting ribosomal ITS-2 gene for detection of the H. contortus in goat fecal samples has been established. The established LAMP method was H. contortus specific, and the sensitivity of LAMP was the same as that of the H. contortus species-specific PCR, with the lowest DNA level detected as being 1 pg. Examination of the clinical samples indicated that the positive rate of LAMP was higher than that of PCR, but no statistical difference was observed between LAMP and PCR (χ² = 17.991, P = 0.053). In conclusion, a LAMP assay with a high specificity and a good sensitivity has been developed to detect H. contortus infection in goats. The established LAMP assay is useful for clinical diagnosis of H. contortus .

Identifying the location of epidermal growth factor-responsive element involved in the regulation of type IIb sodium-phosphate cotransporter expression in porcine intestinal epithelial cells

Phosphate is an important mineral nutrient for both human and animals in growth and physiological functions; thus, much effort in the past has been made to clarify the mechanisms governing its absorption. Previous studies have found that epidermal growth factor (EGF) inhibits phosphate absorption in human intestinal cells via modulating the interaction of transcriptional factor c-myb with sodium-phosphate cotransporter (NaPi-IIb) gene promoter. This finding provoked our interest in determining the effect of EGF on NaPi-IIb gene expression in intestinal cells of pigs and the location of EGF-responsive element in the gene promoter. Using quantitative PCR, it was observed that EGF significantly reduced NaPi-IIb gene expression in porcine intestinal epithelial IPEC-J2 cells. Transfection with a series of constructs that contain different lengths of the 5'-flanking promoter region of the NaPi-IIb gene manifested that EGF-responsive element is located in the -1200 to -800 region. Further, c-myb was extracted from the cell nucleus of IPEC cells that were exposed to EGF or not via immunoprecipitation. The electrophoretic mobility shift assay showed a specific binding of transcription factor c-myb to labelled probes encompassing DNA sequence from -1092 to -1085 (-TCCAGTTG-). This protein-DNA complex was decreased with cells exposed to EGF and abrogated when c-myb was pre-incubated with excessive unlabelled competitive probes. Results from mutagenesis studies demonstrated that the c-myb-binding site is the EGF-responsive element involved in the regulation of NaPi-IIb expression. Identifying the location of EGF-responsive element contributes to understanding mechanisms underlying EGF down-regulated NaPi-IIb gene expression and provides a foundation for further investigating EGF-regulatory functions in phosphate absorption in pig intestine.

The oncoprotein HBXIP up-regulates YAP through activation of transcription factor c-Myb to promote growth of liver cancer

The oncoprotein Yes-associated protein (YAP) in Hippo pathway plays crucial roles in the development of cancer. However, the mechanism of YAP regulation in cancer remains poorly understood. Here, we supposed that the oncoprotein hepatitis B X-interacting protein (HBXIP) might be involved in the modulation of YAP in liver cancer. Interestingly, our data showed that the expression levels of HBXIP were positively associated with those of YAP in clinical hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) samples by immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and real-time PCR assays. HBXIP was able to up-regulate YAP in hepatoma cells at the levels of promoter, mRNA and protein. Mechanistically, we identified that HBXIP up-regulated YAP through co-activating the transcription factor c-Myb in hepatoma cells. Functionally, silencing YAP abolished the proliferation of hepatoma cells mediated by HBXIP in vitro. Moreover, knockdown of YAP strongly blocked the HBXIP-enhanced tumor growth in mice. Thus, we conclude that HBXIP up-regulates YAP expression via activating transcription factor c-Myb to facilitate the growth of hepatoma cells. Our finding provides new insights into the mechanism of YAP regulation. Therapeutically, the oncoprotein HBXIP and YAP might serve as targets in liver cancer.

Roles of the Laodelphax striatellus Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule in Rice stripe virus infection of its insect vector

The arthropod Down syndrome cell adhesion molecule (Dscam) mediates pathogen-specific recognition via an extensive protein isoform repertoire produced by alternative splicing. To date, most studies have focused on the subsequent pathogen-specific immune response, and few have investigated the entry into cells of viruses or endosymbionts. In the present study, we cloned and characterized the cDNA of Laodelphax striatellus Dscam (LsDscam) and investigated the function of LsDscam in rice stripe virus (RSV) infection and the influence on the endosymbiont Wolbachia. LsDscam displayed a typical Dscam domain architecture, including 10 immunoglobulin (Ig) domains, six fibronectin type III domains, one transmembrane domain and a cytoplasmic tail. Alternative splicing occurred at the N-termini of the Ig2 and Ig3 domains, the complete Ig7 domain, the transmembrane domain and the C-terminus, comprising 10, 51, 35, two and two variable exons, respectively. Potentially LsDscam could encode at least 71 400 unique isoforms and 17 850 types of extracellular regions. LsDscam was expressed in various L. striatellus tissues. Knockdown of LsDscam mRNA via RNA interference decreased the titres of both RSV and Wolbachia, but did not change the numbers of the extracellular symbiotic bacterium Acinetobacter rhizosphaerae. Specific Dscam isoforms may play roles in enhancing the infection of vector-borne viruses or endosymbionts.

Oncoprotein HBXIP Modulates Abnormal Lipid Metabolism and Growth of Breast Cancer Cells by Activating the LXRs/SREBP-1c/FAS Signaling Cascade

Abnormal lipid metabolism is a hallmark of tumorigenesis. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that fatty acid synthase (FAS, FASN) is a metabolic oncogene that supports the growth and survival of tumor cells and is highly expressed in many cancers. Here, we report that the oncoprotein, hepatitis B X-interacting protein (HBXIP, LAMTOR5) contributes to abnormal lipid metabolism. We show that high expression of HBXIP in 236 breast cancer patients was significantly associated with decreased overall survival and progression-free survival. Interestingly, the expression of HBXIP was positively related to that of FAS in clinical breast cancer tissues, and HBXIP overexpression in breast cancer cells resulted in FAS upregulation. Mechanistically, HBXIP upregulated SREBP-1c (SREBF1), which activates the transcription of FAS, by directly interacting with and coactivating nuclear receptor (NR) liver X receptors (LXR). Physiologically, LXRs are activated via a coactivator containing NR motif in a ligand-dependent manner. However, in breast cancer cells, HBXIP containing the corepressor/nuclear receptor motif with special flanking sequence could coactivate LXRs independent of ligand. Moreover, overexpressed SREBP-1c was able to activate the transcription of HBXIP, forming a positive-feedback loop. Functionally, HBXIP enhanced lipogenesis, resulting in the growth of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo Thus, we conclude that the oncoprotein HBXIP contributes to the abnormal lipid metabolism in breast cancer through LXRs/SREBP-1c/FAS signaling, providing new insights into the mechanisms by which cancer cells reprogram lipid metabolism in their favor. Cancer Res; 76(16); 4696-707. ©2016 AACR.

MiR-30e suppresses proliferation of hepatoma cells via targeting prolyl 4-hydroxylase subunit alpha-1 (P4HA1) mRNA

Aberrant microRNA expression has been shown to be characteristic of many cancers. It has been reported that the expression levels of miR-30e are decreased in liver cancer tissues. However, the role of miR-30e in hepatocellular carcinoma remains poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the significance of miR-30e in hepatocarcinogenesis. Bioinformatics analysis reveals a putative target site of miR-30e in the 3'-untranslated region (3'UTR) of prolyl 4-hydroxylase subunit alpha-1 (P4HA1) mRNA. Moreover, luciferase reporter gene assays verified that miR-30e directly targeted 3'UTR of P4HA1 mRNA. Then, we demonstrated that miR-30e was able to reduce the expression of P4HA1 at the levels of mRNA and protein using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Enforced expression of miR-30e suppressed proliferation of HepG2 cells by 5-ethynyl-2-deoxyuridine (EdU) assay and reduced colony formation of these cells by colony formation analysis. Conversely, anti-miR-30e enhanced the proliferation of hepatoma cells in vitro. Interestingly, the ectopic expression of P4HA1 could efficiently rescue the inhibition of cell proliferation mediated by miR-30e in HepG2 cells. Meanwhile, silencing of P4HA1 abolished the anti-miR-30e-induced proliferation of cells. Clinically, quantitative real-time PCR showed that miR-30e was down-regulated in liver tumor tissues relative to their peritumor tissues. The expression levels of miR-30e were negatively correlated to those of P4HA1 mRNA in clinical liver tumor tissues. Thus, we conclude that miR-30e suppresses proliferation of hepatoma cells through targeting P4HA1 mRNA. Our finding provides new insights into the mechanism of hepatocarcinogenesis.

The oncoprotein HBXIP up-regulates FGF4 through activating transcriptional factor Sp1 to promote the migration of breast cancer cells

We have reported that the oncoprotein hepatitis B X-interacting protein (HBXIP) is able to promote migration of breast cancer cells. Fibroblast growth factor 4 (FGF4) is a multipotent growth factor and is highly expressed in various human cancers. However, the regulatory mechanism of FGF4 in breast cancer remains poorly understood. In the present study, we report that HBXIP is able to up-regulate FGF4 to enhance the migration of breast cancer cells. Immunohistochemistry staining showed that HBXIP and FGF4 were highly expressed in clinical metastatic lymph nodes of breast tumor. The expression levels of HBXIP were positively related to those of FGF4 in clinical breast cancer tissues. Then, we validated that HBXIP up-regulated the expression of FGF4 at the levels of promoter, mRNA and protein by luciferase reporter gene assays, reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis. Moreover, we found that HBXIP was able to activate FGF4 promoter through transcriptional factor Sp1 by luciferase reporter gene assays. Chromatin immunoprecipitation assays confirmed that HBXIP coactivated Sp1 to stimulate FGF4 promoter. In function, we showed that HBXIP promoted breast cancer cell migration through FGF4 by wound healing and transwell cell migration assays. Thus, we conclude that the oncoprotein HBXIP up-regulates FGF4 through activating transcriptional factor Sp1 to promote the migration of breast cancer cells. Therapeutically, HBXIP may serve as a novel target in breast cancer.

HBXIP and LSD1 Scaffolded by lncRNA Hotair Mediate Transcriptional Activation by c-Myc

c-Myc is regarded as a transcription factor, but the basis for its function remains unclear. Here, we define a long noncoding RNA (lncRNA)/protein complex that mediates the transcriptional activation by c-Myc in breast cancer cells. Among 388 c-Myc target genes in human MCF-7 breast cancer cells, we found that their promoters could be occupied by the oncoprotein HBXIP. We confirmed that the HBXIP expression correlated with expression of the c-Myc target genes cyclin A, eIF4E, and LDHA. RNAi-mediated silencing of HBXIP abolished c-Myc-mediated upregulation of these target genes. Mechanistically, HBXIP interacted directly with c-Myc through the leucine zippers and recruited the lncRNA Hotair along with the histone demethylase LSD1, for which Hotair serves as a scaffold. Silencing of HBXIP, Hotair, or LSD1 was sufficient to block c-Myc-enhanced cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, our results support a model in which the HBXIP/Hotair/LSD1 complex serves as a critical effector of c-Myc in activating transcription of its target genes, illuminating long-standing questions on how c-Myc drives carcinogenesis.

Deacetylation of tumor-suppressor MST1 in Hippo pathway induces its degradation through HBXIP-elevated HDAC6 in promotion of breast cancer growth

Reduction or loss of tumor-suppressor mammalian STE20-like kinase 1 (MST1) in Hippo pathway contributes to the tumorigenesis. However, the mechanism leading to reduction of MST1 in cancers remains poorly understood. In this study, we explored the hypothesis that the oncoprotein hepatitis B X-interacting protein (HBXIP) is involved in the reduction of MST1 in breast cancer. Immunohistochemical analysis of tissue microarrays revealed that the expression of HBXIP was negatively associated with that of MST1 in 98 clinical breast tissue samples. Then we found that HBXIP could posttranslationally downregulate MST1 in breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, we identified that MST1 could be acetylated on its lysine 35 residue in the cells. Strikingly, the treatment with trichostatin A, an inhibitor of histone deacetylases (HDACs), markedly increased the levels of MST1 acetylation and protein in the cells. Interestingly, the oncoprotein HBXIP could significantly inhibit acetylation of MST1, resulting in the reduction of MST1 protein. Notably, we revealed that the HDAC6 could reduce the protein levels of MST1 through deacetylation modification of MST1 in the cells. Moreover, our data revealed that HBXIP upregulated HDAC6 at the levels of mRNA and protein by activating transcription factor nuclear factor-κB. Deacetylation of MST1 promoted the interaction of MST1 with HSC70 in the cells, resulting in a lysosome-dependent degradation of MST1 via chaperone-mediated autophagy (CMA). Functionally, the reduction of tumor-suppressor MST1 mediated by HBXIP promoted the growth of breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Thus we conclude that the deacetylation of MST1 mediated by HBXIP-enhanced HDAC6 results in MST1 degradation in a CMA manner in promotion of breast cancer growth. Our finding provides new insights into the mechanism of tumor-suppressor MST1 reduction in breast cancer.

PDK1/Akt/PDE4D axis identified as a target for asthma remedy synergistic with β2 AR agonists by a natural agent arctigenin

BACKGROUND

Asthma is a heterogenetic disorder characterized by chronic inflammation with variable airflow obstruction and airway hyper-responsiveness. As the most potent and popular bronchodilators, β2 adrenergic receptor (β2 AR) agonists bind to the β2 ARs that are coupled via a stimulatory G protein to adenylyl cyclase, thereby improving cAMP accumulation and resulting in airway smooth muscle relaxation. We previously demonstrated arctigenin had a synergistic function with the β2 AR agonist, but the target for this remained elusive.

METHOD

Chemical proteomics capturing was used to enrich and uncover the target of arctigenin in human bronchial smooth muscle cells, and reverse docking and molecular dynamic stimulation were performed to evaluate the binding of arctigenin and its target. In vitro enzyme activities and protein levels were demonstrated with special kits and Western blotting. Finally, guinea pig tracheal muscle segregation and ex vivo function were analysed.

RESULTS

Arctigenin bound to PDK1 with an ideal binding free energy -25.45 kcal/mol and inhibited PDK1 kinase activity without changing its protein level. Additionally, arctigenin reduced PKB/Akt-induced phosphorylation of PDE4D, which was first identified in this study. Attenuation of PDE4D resulted in cAMP accumulation in human bronchial smooth muscle. The inhibition of PDK1 showed a synergistic function with β2 AR agonists and relaxed the constriction of segregated guinea pig tracheal muscle.

CONCLUSIONS

The PDK1/Akt/PDE4D axis serves as a novel asthma target, which may benefit airflow obstruction.

The role of Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato saliva in the dissemination of Rickettsia conorii in C3H/HeJ mice

Animal models have been developed for the study of rickettsial pathogenesis. However, to understand what occurs during the natural route of rickettsial transmission via the tick bite, the role of tick saliva should be considered in these models. To address this, we analysed the role of tick saliva in the transmission of Rickettsia conorii (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae) in a murine host by intradermally (i.d.) inoculating two groups of susceptible C3H/HeJ mice with this Rickettsia, and infesting one group with nymphal Rhipicephalus sanguineus sensu lato (Ixodida: Ixodidae) ticks. Quantification of bacterial loads and mRNA levels of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-10 and NF-κB was performed in C3H/HeJ lung samples by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time reverse transcriptase PCR, respectively. Lung histology was examined to evaluate the pathological manifestations of infection. No statistically significant difference in bacterial load in the lungs of mice was observed between these two groups; however, a statistically significant difference was observed in levels of IL-1β and NF-κB, both of which were higher in the group inoculated with rickettsiae but not infected with ticks. Lung histology in both groups of animals revealed infiltration of inflammatory cells. Overall, this study showed that i.d. inoculation of R. conorii caused infection in the lungs of C3H/HeJ mice and tick saliva inhibited proinflammatory effects.

The oncoprotein HBXIP modulates the feedback loop of MDM2/p53 to enhance the growth of breast cancer

MDM2 and p53 form a negative feedback loop, in which p53 as a transcription factor positively regulates MDM2 and MDM2 negatively regulates tumor suppressor p53 through promoting its degradation. However, the mechanism of the feedback loop is poorly understood in cancers. We had reported previously that the oncoprotein hepatitis B X-interacting protein (HBXIP) is a key oncoprotein in the development of cancer. Thus, we supposed that HBXIP might be involved in the event. Here, we observed that the expression levels of HBXIP were positively correlated to those of MDM2 in clinical breast cancer tissues. Interestingly, HBXIP was able to up-regulate MDM2 at the levels of mRNA and protein in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Mechanically, HBXIP increased the promoter activities of MDM2 through directly binding to p53 in the P2 promoter of MDM2. Strikingly, we identified that the acetyltransferase p300 was recruited by HBXIP to p53 in the promoter of MDM2. Moreover, we validated that HBXIP enhanced the p53 degradation mediated by MDM2. Functionally, the knockdown of HBXIP or/and p300 inhibited the proliferation of breast cancer cells in vitro, and the depletion of MDM2 or overexpression of p53 significantly blocked the HBXIP-promoted growth of breast cancer in vitro and in vivo. Thus, we concluded that highly expressed HBXIP accelerates the MDM2-mediated degradation of p53 in breast cancer through modulating the feedback loop of MDM2/p53, resulting in the fast growth of breast cancer cells. Our findings provide new insights into the mechanism of the acceleration of the MDM2/p53 feedback loop in the development of cancer.

Treatment of vertebral body compression fractures using percutaneous kyphoplasty guided by a combination of computed tomography and C-arm fluoroscopy with finger-touch guidance to determine the needle entry point

This study aimed to evaluate the results and complications of image-guided percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) using computed tomography (CT) and C-arm fluoroscopy, with finger-touch guidance to determine the needle entry point. Of the 86 patients (106 PKP) examined, 56 were treated for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures and 30 for vertebral tumors. All patients underwent image-guided treatment using CT and conventional fluoroscopy, with finger-touch identification of a puncture point within a small incision (1.5 to 2 cm). Partial or complete pain relief was achieved in 98% of patients within 24 h of treatment. Moreover, a significant improvement in functional mobility and reduction in analgesic use was observed. CT allowed the detection of cement leakage in 20.7% of the interventions. No bone cement leakages with neurologic symptoms were noted. All work channels were made only once, and bone cement was distributed near the center of the vertebral body. Our study confirms the efficacy of PKP treatment in osteoporotic and oncological patients. The combination of CT and C-arm fluoroscopy with finger-touch guidance reduces the risk of complications compared with conventional fluoroscopy alone, facilitates the detection of minor cement leakage, improves the operative procedure, and results in a favorable bone cement distribution.

Searching for synergistic bronchodilators and novel therapeutic regimens for chronic lung diseases from a traditional Chinese medicine, Qingfei Xiaoyan Wan

Classical Chinese pharmacopeias describe numerous excellent herbal formulations, and each prescription is an outstanding pool of effective compounds for drug discovery. Clarifying the bioactivity of the combined mechanisms of the ingredients in complex traditional Chinese medicine formulas is challenging. A classical formula known as Qingfei Xiaoyan Wan, used clinically as a treatment for prevalent chronic lung disease, was investigated in this work. A mutually enhanced bioactivity-guided ultra-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC/Q-TOF-MS) characterization system was proposed, coupled with a dual-luciferase reporter assay for β₂AR-agonist cofactor screening. Arctiin, arctigenin, descurainoside and descurainolide B, four lignin compounds that showed synergistic bronchodilation effects with ephedrine, were revealed. The synergistic mechanism of arctigenin with the β₂ARagonist involved with the reduction of free Ca²⁺ was clarified by a dual-luciferase reporter assay for intracellular calcium and the Ca²⁺ indicator fluo-4/AM to monitor changes in the fluorescence. The relaxant and contractile responses of airway smooth muscle are regulated by crosstalk between the intracellular cAMP and calcium signaling pathways. Our data indicated the non-selective βAR agonist ephedrine as the principal bronchodilator of the formula, whereas the lignin ingredients served as adjuvant ingredients. A greater understanding of the mechanisms governing the control of these pathways, based on conventional wisdom, could lead to the identification of novel therapeutic targets or new agents for the treatment of asthma and COPD.

Arctigenin exhibits relaxation effect on bronchus by affecting transmembrane flow of calcium

Arctigenin, a lignan extract from Arctium lappa (L.), exhibits anti-inflammation, antioxidation, vasodilator effects, etc. However, the effects of arctigenin on bronchus relaxation are not well investigated. This study aimed to investigate how arctigenin regulates bronchus tone and calcium ion (Ca(2+)) flow. Trachea strips of guinea pigs were prepared for testing the relaxation effect of arctigenin to acetylcholine, histamine, KCl, and CaCl2, respectively. Furthermore, L-type calcium channel currents were detected by patch-clamp, and intracellular Ca(2+) concentration was detected by confocal microscopy. The results showed that arctigenin exhibited relaxation effect on tracheae to different constrictors, and this was related to decreasing cytoplasmic Ca(2+) concentration by inhibiting Ca(2+) influx partly through L-type calcium channel as well as promoting Ca(2+) efflux. In summary, this study provides new insight into the mechanisms by which arctigenin exhibits relaxation effect on bronchus and suggests its potential use for airway disease therapy.

Lysine-specific demethylase 1: an epigenetic regulator of salt-sensitive hypertension

BACKGROUND

Hypertension (HTN) represents a complex heritable disease in which environmental factors may directly affect gene function via epigenetic mechanisms. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that dietary salt influences the activity of a histone-modifying enzyme, lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD-1), which in turn is associated with salt-sensitivity of blood pressure (BP).

METHODS

Animal and human studies were performed. Salt-sensitivity of LSD-1 expression was assessed in wild-type (WT) and LSD-1 heterozygote knockout (LSD-1(+/-)) mice. Clinical relevance was tested by multivariate associations between single-nuclear polymorphisms (SNPs) in the LSD-1 gene and salt-sensitivity of BP, with control of dietary sodium, in a primary African-American hypertensive cohort and two replication hypertensive cohorts (Caucasian and Mexican-American).

RESULTS

LSD-1 expression was modified by dietary salt in WT mice with lower levels associated with liberal salt intake. LSD-1(+/-) mice expressed lower LSD-1 protein levels than WT mice in kidney tissue. Similar to LSD-1(+/-) mice, African-American minor allele carriers of two LSD-1 SNPs displayed greater change in systolic BP (SBP) in response to change from low to liberal salt diet (rs671357, P = 0.01; rs587168, P = 0.005). This association was replicated in the Hispanic (rs587168, P = 0.04) but not the Caucasian cohort. Exploratory analyses demonstrated decreased serum aldosterone concentrations in African-American minor allele carriers similar to findings in the LSD-1(+/-) mice, decreased α-EnaC expression in LSD-1(+/-) mice, and impaired renovascular responsiveness to salt loading in minor allele carriers.

CONCLUSION

The results of this translational research study support a role for LSD-1 in the pathogenesis of salt-sensitive HTN.

Efficacy of specific IgY for treatment of lipopolysaccharide-induced endotoxemia using a mouse model

AIMS

To estimate the efficacy of specific egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) for the treatment of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemia using a mouse model.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Specific IgY was obtained from the yolk of hens immunized with formaldehyde-killed Escherichia coli O111 and showed a high binding activity to LPS when subjected to an ELISA. Endotoxemia was induced in mice by intraperitoneal injection of LPS at a dose of 20 mg kg(-1) for measuring survival rate and 10 mg kg(-1) for cytokine measurement. The survival rate of mice treated with 200 mg kg(-1) specific IgY or 5 mg kg(-1) dexamethasone was 70% while none of the mice in the normal saline-treated group survived more than 7 days. Specific IgY significantly (P < 0.05) decreased tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level and increased interleukin-10 (IL-10) level in the serum of endotoxemia mice. Specific IgY had less of an effect on TNF-α than dexamethasone, while its effect on increasing IL-10 was stronger than dexamethasone. Haematoxylin and eosin-stained sections indicated that IgY attenuated the damage to the lung and liver observed in mice with endotoxemia.

CONCLUSIONS

The specific IgY increased the survival rate of mice with endotoxemia induced by LPS, down-regulated TNF-α and up-regulated IL-10 in serum and attenuated the extent of damage to the lung and liver.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The specific IgY has potential for the treatment of LPS-induced endotoxemia.

Organic Solution Deposition of Copper Seed Layers onto Barrier Metals

Spontaneous deposition of copper seed layers from metal bearing organic based solutions onto sputter deposited titanium, titanium nitride, and tantalum diffusion barrier thin films has been demonstrated. Based on electrochemically driven cementation exchange reactions, the process was used to produce adherent, selectively deposited copper metal particulate films on blanket and patterned barrier metal thin films on silicon substrates. The organic solution deposited copper films were capable of acting as seed layers for subsequent electrolytic and electroless copper deposition processes using standard plating baths. Electroless and electrolytic copper films from 0.1µm to 1.0µm thick were produced on a variety of samples on which the organic solution copper acted as the initial catalytic seed layer. The feasibility of using organic solution deposited palladium as a seed layer followed by electroless copper deposition has also been demonstrated. In addition, experiments conducted on patterned barrier metal samples with exposed areas of dielectric such as polyimide indicated that no organic solution copper or palladium deposition occurred on the insulating materials.

Autosomal SNP typing of forensic samples with the GenPlex™ HID System: results of a collaborative study

The GenPlex™ HID System (Applied Biosystems - AB) offers typing of 48 of the 52 SNPforID SNPs and amelogenin. Previous studies have shown a high reproducibility of the GenPlex™ HID System using 250-500pg DNA of good quality. An international exercise was performed by 14 laboratories (9 in Europe and 5 in the US) in order to test the robustness and reliability of the GenPlex™ HID System on forensic samples. Three samples with partly degraded DNA and 10 samples with low amounts of DNA were analyzed in duplicates using various amounts of DNA. In order to compare the performance of the GenPlex™ HID System with the most commonly used STR kits, 500pg of partly degraded DNA from three samples was typed by the laboratories using one or more STR kits. The median SNP typing success rate was 92.3% with 500pg of partly degraded DNA. Three of the fourteen laboratories counted for more than two thirds of the locus dropouts. The median percentage of discrepant results was 0.2% with 500pg degraded DNA. An increasing percentage of locus dropouts and discrepant results were observed when lower amounts of DNA were used. Different success rates were observed for the various SNPs. The rs763869 SNP was the least successful. With the exception of the MiniFiler™ kit (AB), GenPlex™ HID performed better than five other tested STR kits. When partly degraded DNA was analyzed, GenPlex™ HID showed a very low mean mach probability, while all STR kits except MiniFiler™ had very limited discriminatory power.

Characterization of specific egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) against mastitis-causing Staphylococcus aureus

AIMS

To evaluate the in vitro activity of egg yolk immunoglobulin (IgY) against mastitis-causing Staphylococcus aureus.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Specific IgY was produced by immunizing hens with formaldehyde-killed Staph. aureus, using a bacterial strain known to cause mastitis. The IgY, of 94% purity, was obtained from yolks by water dilution, salt precipitations, ultrafiltration and gel filtration. ELISA indicated that the IgY produced was specific to the antigen and five Staph. aureus isolates obtained from mastitic cows. The growth of Staph. aureus was inhibited by specific IgY at concentrations from 1 to 10 mg ml(-1) in a dose-dependent manner. The phagocytosis of Staph. aureus by milk macrophages was enhanced in the presence of specific IgY with the highest phagocytic percentage being 30% higher than that without IgY (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The specific IgY against mastitis-causing Staph. aureus inhibited the growth of Staph. aureus and enhanced the phagocytosis of Staph. aureus by milk macrophages.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

Specific IgY would be a potential treatment for bovine mastitis.