Retinoic Acid Deficiency Underlies the Etiology of Midfacial Defects

Embryonic craniofacial development depends on the coordinated outgrowth and fusion of multiple facial primordia, which are populated with cranial neural crest cells and covered by the facial ectoderm. Any disturbance in these developmental events, their progenitor tissues, or signaling pathways can result in craniofacial deformities such as orofacial clefts, which are among the most common birth defects in humans. In the present study, we show that Rdh10 loss of function leads to a substantial reduction in retinoic acid (RA) signaling in the developing frontonasal process during early embryogenesis, which results in a variety of craniofacial anomalies, including midfacial cleft and ectopic chondrogenic nodules. Elevated apoptosis and perturbed cell proliferation in postmigratory cranial neural crest cells and a substantial reduction in Alx1 and Alx3 transcription in the developing frontonasal process were associated with midfacial cleft in Rdh10-deficient mice. More important, expanded Shh signaling in the ventral forebrain, as well as partial abrogation of midfacial defects in Rdh10 mutants via inhibition of Hh signaling, indicates that misregulation of Shh signaling underlies the pathogenesis of reduced RA signaling-associated midfacial defects. Taken together, these data illustrate the precise spatiotemporal function of Rdh10 and RA signaling during early embryogenesis and their importance in orchestrating molecular and cellular events essential for normal midfacial development.

Effects of a combined exercise plus diet program on cardiorespiratory fitness of breast cancer patients

Background

Decreases in cardiorespiratory fitness among breast cancer patients have often been reported in previous studies, affecting patients’ health and survival. Peak oxygen uptake (\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${{\dot{V}\text{O}}}_{{{\text{2peak}}}}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak) is the gold standard for assessing cardiorespiratory fitness and is inversely correlated with cardiovascular disease among women with breast cancer. Some previous studies have reported that aerobic exercise and proper diet positively influence \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${{\dot{V}\text{O}}}_{{{\text{2peak}}}}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak. However, almost all studies have been conducted in the Western countries, and few studies are investigating on Asian women who have lower BMI compared with Western ones.

Purpose

Investigating the effects of a combined exercise and diet program among Japanese cancer patients undergoing therapy on \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${{\dot{V}\text{O}}}_{{{\text{2peak}}}}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak.

Methods

Thirty-two Japanese women with breast cancer undergoing endocrine therapy (age; 50 ± 6 years, body weight; 59 ± 10 kg) were voluntarily assigned to either intervention group (n = 21) or control group (n = 11). The intervention group completed a 12-week combined exercise plus diet program, consisting of weekly aerobic exercise and maintaining a nutritionally well-balanced 1200 kcal/day diet. The control group was instructed to continue with their usual activities. Anthropometric indices and \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${{\dot{V}\text{O}}}_{{{\text{2peak}}}}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak were measured at baseline and after the 12-week program.

Results

All 21 women completed the 12-week program. The \documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \usepackage{amsmath} \usepackage{wasysym} \usepackage{amsfonts} \usepackage{amssymb} \usepackage{amsbsy} \usepackage{mathrsfs} \usepackage{upgreek} \setlength{\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \begin{document}$${{\dot{V}\text{O}}}_{{{\text{2peak}}}}$$\end{document}V˙O2peak significantly increased from 26.7 to 30.4 mL/kg/min (1.57–1.62 L/min) in the intervention group, while it remained unchanged (26.9–26.9 mL/kg/min) in the control group. Mean reduction of body mass index was − 2.1 in the intervention group (P < .001) and + 0.1 in the control group.

Conclusions

Our combined exercise plus diet program may contribute to improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness and body weight compared with control group.

Abstract P6-11-04: Effects of a combined exercise plus diet intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness among Japanese women with breast cancer: A feasibility study

Background

Remarkable deterioration of physical fitness is a well-established adverse event associated with endocrine therapy among breast cancer patients. Especially, impairment in cardiorespiratory fitness has been often reported in previous studies, affecting patients' health and survival. Peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) is the gold standard for assessing cardiorespiratory fitness and is inversely correlated with cardiovascular disease among women with breast cancer as well as ordinal people. A number of previous studies have reported that aerobic exercise improves the risk of cardiovascular disease. Moreover, a proper diet program positively influences VO2peak. However, almost all studies have been conducted in the Western community and there are few studies forcing on Asian women who have lower BMI compared with Western ones. Therefore, we investigated the feasibility of a combined exercise and diet program among Japanese cancer patients undergoing endocrine therapy and the effect on VO2peak.

Methods

Thirty-Two Japanese women with breast cancer undergoing endocrine therapy (age; 50±6 years, body weight; 126±22 lbs) were voluntarily assigned to either intervention group (n = 21) or control group (n = 11). The intervention group completed a 12-week combined exercise plus diet program, consisting of weekly aerobic training and maintaining a nutritionally well-balanced 1,200 kcal/d diet. The control group were instructed to continue with their usual activities. Anthropometric indices, VO2peak and QoL were measured at baseline and after the 12-week program. VO2peak was assessed using an Okura protocol (Okura. 1999).

Results

All of the 21 women completed the 12-week program. The VO2peak increased from 26.7 to 30.4 mL/kg/min (1.57 to 1.62 L/min) in the intervention group, while it remained unchanged (26.6 to 26.7 mL/kg/min) in the control group. Significant improvements were observed in VO2peak, and QoL in the intervention group (P &lt;. 001), while they remained essentially unchanged among the control group. Mean weight loss was 8.7% of the initial weight in the intervention group (P &lt;. 001) and 0.1% in the control group. No adverse events were reported in the intervention group.

Conclusions

Our combined exercise plus diet program may contribute to improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness, QoL, and body weight compared with control group. Importantly, cardiorespiratory fitness has been improved by as much as 15 % after three months. Further studies are needed to consider that what kind of aerobic exercise is best to improve cardiorespiratory fitness among Asian breast cancer patients.

Citation Format: Okumatsu K, Tsujimoto T, Seki A, Kotake R, Yamauchi T, Yamauchi H, Tanaka K. Effects of a combined exercise plus diet intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness among Japanese women with breast cancer: A feasibility study [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 P6-11-04.

Comparison of the T2 relaxation time of the temporomandibular joint articular disk between patients with temporomandibular disorders and asymptomatic volunteers

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

T2 relaxation time is a quantitative MR imaging parameter used to detect degenerated cartilage in the knee and lumbar intervertebral disks. We measured the T2 relaxation time of the articular disk of the temporomandibular joint in patients with temporomandibular disorders and asymptomatic volunteers to demonstrate an association between T2 relaxation time and temporomandibular disorder MR imaging findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred forty-four patients with temporomandibular disorders and 17 volunteers were enrolled in this study. An 8-echo spin-echo sequence for measuring the T2 relaxation times was performed in the closed mouth position, and the T2 relaxation time of the entire articular disk was measured. Patients were classified according to the articular disk location and function, articular disk configuration, presence of joint effusion, osteoarthritis, and bone marrow abnormalities.

RESULTS

The T2 relaxation time of the entire articular disk was 29.3 ± 3.8 ms in the volunteer group and 30.7 ± 5.1 ms in the patient group (P = .177). When subgroups were analyzed, however, the T2 relaxation times of the entire articular disk in the anterior disk displacement without reduction group, the marked or extensive joint effusion group, the osteoarthritis-positive group, and the bone marrow abnormality-positive group were significantly longer than those in the volunteer group (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

The T2 relaxation times of the articular disk of the temporomandibular joint in patients with progressive temporomandibular disorders were longer than those of healthy volunteers.

Structures and Properties of TiAl-Base Alloys Containing Mn

Structures and mechanical properties of TiAl-base alloys have been studied, in which Zr, Nb, V or Mn is added as the third element and the Al content is changed. Behavior of the third element in the TiAl-base alloys and effects of various factors on ductility have been discussed. It has been concluded that the Ti-48.4 at% Al-1.0 at% Mn alloy is the optimum composition for obtaining good room temperature ductility.

Effects of structural anisotropy of cancellous bone on speed of ultrasonic fast waves in the bovine femur

Ultrasonic waves in cancellous bone change dramatically depending on its structural complexity. One good example is the separation of an ultrasonic longitudinal wave into fast and slow waves during propagation. In this study, we examined fast wave propagation in cancellous bone obtained from the head of the bovine femur, taking the bone structure into consideration. We investigated the wave propagation perpendicular to the bone axis and found the two-wave phenomenon. By rotating the cylindrical cancellous bone specimen, changes in the fast wave speed due to the rotation angle then were observed. In addition to the ultrasonic evaluation, the structural anisotropy of each specimen was measured by X-ray micro-computed tomography (CT). From the CT images, we obtained the mean intercept length (MIL), degree of anisotropy (DA), and angle of insonification relative to the trabecular orientation. The ultrasonic and CT results showed that the fast wave speed was dependent on the structural anisotropy, especially on the trabecular orientation and length. The fast wave speeds always were higher for propagation parallel to the trabecular orientation. In addition, there was a strong correlation between the DA and the ratio between maximum and minimum speeds (V(max)/V(min)) (R(2) = 0.63).

The transport mechanisms of 222Rn in soil at Tateishi as an anomaly spot in Japan

The (222)Rn concentration profiles in soil have been measured at an anomaly spot in Tateishi, Japan. In winter, the concentrations were low and showed a negative gradient with depth, but in other seasons, the concentration had both positive and negative gradients with depth, and dramatically changed by time. On the assumption that there was ventilation in deep layers and with driving forces of wind and temperatures, these phenomena were successfully explained. This finding would contribute to a numerical model for (222)Rn transport in soil.

Two cases of colonic tuberculosis presenting with massive melena

The clinical symptoms of colonic tuberculosis are variable, among which massive melena is extremely rare. Herein, we report two cases of colonic tuberculosis representing with massive melena, both of whom never had active pulmonary tuberculosis. The first case was a 55-year-old woman. Although her emergency colonoscopic setting suggested colonic tuberculosis, no evidence of tuberculosis could be found at that time. We performed a therapeutic trial and observed a drastic regression of the initial changes with 4-week treatment using antituberculous agents. The second case was a 37-year-old man. His emergency colonoscopy showed lesions mimicking colon carcinoma. However, the histological examinations did not indicate malignancy. The polymerase chain reaction of colonic biopsy specimen was positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Similar to the first case, a significant improvement of the initial lesions was observed after 4-week treatment using antituberculous agents. Collectively, although the massive melena is a rare manifestation, tuberculosis of the colon should be suspected in the patients with such symptom.

Repeated adenoviral administration into the biliary tract can induce repeated expression of the original gene construct in rat livers without immunosuppressive strategies

BACKGROUND

Systemic adenoviral readministration appears to be limited by immunogenicity.

AIMS

We examined the feasibility of repeated adenovirus mediated gene transfer into the liver via the biliary tract.

METHODS

Recombinant adenoviruses carrying a reporter lacZ gene were infused retrogradely into the common bile duct of rats. Transduction efficiency of the lacZ gene was estimated histochemically and quantitatively.

RESULTS

Retrograde administration of recombinant adenoviruses into the common bile duct of rats resulted in efficient transgene expression in the liver, specifically in hepatocytes, but not in biliary epithelia. Transduction efficiency induced by intrabiliary adenoviral administration was not substantially different from that induced by intraportal adenoviral infusion. Transgene expression in the liver was however transient, and development of neutralising antibodies against adenovirus was observed in serum but not in bile. When adenoviruses were readministered into the common bile duct, successful re-expression of the transgene in the liver was achieved despite the existence of neutralising antibodies in serum. Interestingly, although proliferation of adenovirus specific T cells in response to adenoviral readministration was suppressed significantly by immunosuppressive FK506 treatment, levels of transgene expression in the liver achieved by intrabiliary adenoviral readministration were not significantly different between animals treated with and without FK506. Furthermore, third adenoviral administration into the common bile duct also induced successful transgene expression in the liver.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that adenovirus mediated gene transfer into the liver may be repeatable without immunosuppressive strategies in clinical settings by means of endoscopic retrograde cholangiography.

Enzymatic synthesis of cross-linkable polyesters from renewable resources

Enzymatic synthesis of a new class of cross-linkable polyesters has been achieved. Polymerization of divinyl sebacate and glycerol using Candida antarctica lipase as catalyst in the presence of unsaturated higher fatty acids produced the polyesters having an unsaturated group in the side chain. The polyester was subjected to hardening by cobalt naphthenate catalyst or thermal treatment, yielding cross-linked transparent film.

[Pneumatosis intestinalis after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation for acute lymphocytic leukemia]

A 45-year-old man was diagnosed as having acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) in February 1997. Complete remission was achieved by chemotherapy, and allogeneic BMT from his HLA-identical sister was performed on November 13, 1997. He developed acute GVHD (grade II), but quickly recovered after methyl-PSL pulse therapy. On June 5, 1998--day 202 after BMT--abdominal pain developed. X-ray and CT examinations showed pneumatosis intestinalis, pneumoperitoneum, pneumomediastinum and abdominal free air. We performed oxygen administration and methyl-PSL pulse therapy, and this quickly improved the symptoms. Corticosteroid and chronic GVHD were thought to be the causative factors of pneumatosis intestinalis in this case. Although pneumatosis intestinalis is relatively rare, it is one of the important potential complications that can occur after allogeneic BMT.

A novel type II cytokeratin, mK6irs, is expressed in the Huxley and Henle layers of the mouse inner root sheath

Hair follicle differentiation involves the expression of both epithelial-type keratins or cytokeratins and hair keratins as well as hair keratin-associated proteins. In this study, a cDNA clone encoding a cytokeratin family member was isolated using RNA differential display techniques. The predicted amino acid sequence derived from this clone, revealed a homology with a number of cytokeratins, not only in the central alpha-helical regions but also in the conserved portions of the amino and carboxy terminal domains, indicating that this protein represents a new member of the mouse type II cytokeratin family. Northern blot analysis showed expression in mouse skin, but not in other tissues, including tongue, esophagus, and forestomach. One- and two-dimensional western blot analysis showed that this new cytokeratin was 57 kDa in size and ran slightly below the area of cytokeratin 5, which corresponded to that of the cytokeratin 6 family members. Both RNA in situ hybridization and immunohistochemical studies of mouse anagen hair follicles demonstrated expression of this cytokeratin in the inner root sheath hair cone during anagen III and in the Henle and Huxley layers of the inner root sheath during anagen VI. The expression of the new cytokeratin began in the hair bulb and progressed up to the height of the keratogenous zone. Taken together the sum of the data analyzed, we have termed this novel cytokeratin mK6irs (mouse gene nomenclature k2-6g) to indicate both its similar mobility with K6 in two-dimensional gels and its specific expression in the inner root sheath of the hair follicle.

Intravenous readministration of an adenoviral vector performed long after the initial administration failed to induce re-expression of the original transgene in rats

Although most humans have been exposed to wild-type adenoviruses in their childhood, titers of neutralizing antibodies against viruses decrease with the passage of time. In the present study, we infused adenoviruses carrying the lacZ gene into the tail vein of rats, and re-infused the same adenoviruses long after the initial administration. However, development of neutralizing antibodies against adenovirus and proliferation of adenovirus-specific T cells were elicited profoundly by adenoviral readministration, and transgene expression was not induced in rats. Our results may have important implications for efficacy considerations when adenoviral vectors are employed in clinical settings for the treatment of cancer.

A potential approach for electrochemotherapy against colorectal carcinoma using a clinically available alternating current system with bipolar snare in a mouse model

BACKGROUND

Although electrochemotherapy appears promising for the treatment of superficial tumors, its usefulness against internal tumors, such as colorectal carcinoma (CRC), has not been well examined. Furthermore, since direct current electric pulses have been used for electropermeabilization of tumors in all in vivo electrochemotherapy studies, including clinical trials, the usefulness of alternating current systems has not been examined at all. In a mouse model it was examined whether the alternating current system with a bipolar snare, which has been employed already as a clinical endoscopic treatment modality, was useful for electrochemotherapy against CRC.

METHODS

Murine CRC colon 26 cells were implanted subcutaneously into syngeneic BALB/c mice and electrochemotherapy with bleomycin (BLM) using the alternating current system was performed against established CRC tumors.

RESULTS

Electrochemotherapy significantly suppressed the growth of established CRC tumors, resulting in significantly prolonged survival of animals with CRC. Histological examination revealed that electrochemotherapy caused massive necrosis of CRC tumors. Subsequent analysis revealed that the delivery of alternating current electric pulses to CRC tumors profoundly increased intratumoral amounts of BLM.

CONCLUSIONS

Because the alternating current system using a bipolar snare has been used widely as an endoscopic treatment modality in clinical settings, these results indicate that electrochemotherapy using the alternating current system may be a promising approach for the treatment of CRC.

Endotoxin clearance and its relation to hepatic and renal disturbances in rats with liver cirrhosis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Little is known about endotoxin clearance and secretion of cytokines from macrophages in liver cirrhosis. The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship of endotoxin clearance and release of tumor necrosis factor alpha by various macrophages to hepatic and renal disturbances in liver cirrhosis.

METHODS

Male Sprague-Dawley rats were given 0.04% thioacetamide orally for 6 or 12 months. The organ distribution of infused [3H]-endotoxin (10 microg/kg b.w.) was analyzed at 30 min or at 24 h. Uptake of [3H]-endotoxin and secretion of tumor necrosis factor alpha by Kupffer cells, splenic macrophages and peripheral blood monocytes (1 x 10(4) cells/ml) from cirrhotic and control rats were determined.

RESULTS

In cirrhotic rats, more endotoxin was left in the body and more endotoxin accumulated in the spleen and kidney, and thus was related to elevation of serum total bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and tumor necrosis factor alpha. Endotoxin uptake and tumor necrosis factor alpha release by the Kupffer cells were decreased and those by the splenic macrophages and peripheral blood monocytes were increased in cirrhotic rats.

CONCLUSIONS

In liver cirrhosis, impaired clearance of endotoxin together with increased secretion of tumor necrosis factor alpha by extrahepatic macrophages may play an important role in the progression of hepatic and renal disturbances.

Augmented hepatocellular carcinoma progression and depressed Kupffer cell activity in rat cirrhotic livers

To examine the property of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), rat HCC cells were implanted into normal and cirrhotic rat livers. Implanted HCC grew much more progressively in cirrhotic livers than in normal livers. Kupffer cells were decreased profoundly in cirrhotic livers, resulting in markedly impaired phagocytic activity. Furthermore, production of Kupffer cell-related cytokines, such as interleukin-1 beta and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, was decreased profoundly in cirrhotic livers. Our results indicate that liver cirrhosis is a prominent promoting factor in HCC progression, and that markedly depressed Kupffer cell activity may play a role in augmented HCC progression in cirrhotic livers.

Hepatic adenomas treated with percutaneous ethanol injection in a patient with glycogen storage disease type Ia

We report a 20-year-old man with glycogen storage disease type Ia (GSD Ia) who presented multiple hepatocellular adenomas (HCAs) in 1993 and in whom percutaneous ethanol injection (PEI) was conducted as treatment for some enlarging tumors beneath the liver surface. In a 6-year follow-up period, we observed gradual enlargement of some of the HCAs, and the rapid growth of a newly developed tumor. In August 1996, one slow-growth HCA was 52 mm in diameter and was located beneath the surface of the liver. We conducted PEI therapy to prevent its spontaneous rupture. During the following year, another tumor developed beneath the liver surface, but showed extremely rapid growth, reaching 51 mm in diameter, from being undetectable, within 12 months. PEI therapy was again conducted for this newly developed tumor. Although additional PEI therapy was required for each tumor, because of suspected recurrence, no findings of discrete recurrence have been detected by computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging for more than 2 years, up to the time of this study. We consider PEI to be a useful and effective therapeutic modality for individual HCAs in patients with GSD Ia.

Assessment of efficiency and safety of adenovirus mediated gene transfer into normal and damaged murine livers

BACKGROUND

When recombinant adenoviruses are infused directly into the circulation, transgene expression is almost completely restricted to the liver.

AIMS

Efficiency and safety of adenovirus mediated gene transfer into damaged livers were examined in mice with liver cirrhosis or fulminant hepatitis.

METHODS

Liver cirrhosis and fulminant hepatitis were induced by intraperitoneal administration of thioacetamide and D-galactosamine followed by lipopolysaccharide, respectively. Mice were infused with adenoviruses carrying the Escherichia coli beta-galactosidase gene, lacZ gene, into the tail vein. Transduction efficiency of the lacZ gene was estimated histochemically by X-gal staining and quantitatively using a chemiluminescent assay. Activation of adenovirus specific T cells and development of neutralising antibodies against adenovirus were also examined.

RESULTS

Histochemical evaluation revealed that approximately 40%, 80%, and 40% of cells in normal, cirrhotic, and fulminant hepatitis livers, respectively, were stained blue using X-gal staining. Quantitative analyses revealed that levels of lacZ expression in cirrhotic livers were approximately 2.5-fold and sixfold greater than those in normal and fulminant hepatitis livers, respectively. Although transgene expression in fulminant hepatitis livers was significantly lower than that in normal livers, marked levels of transgene expression were achieved even in fulminant hepatitis livers. Significant adverse effects of adenoviruses were not observed in damaged livers. There were no significant differences in cellular or humoral immune responses to adenoviruses among animals with normal, cirrhotic, and fulminant hepatitis livers.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that gene therapy with adenoviruses may be used efficiently and safely, even in patients with severe liver disease.

High-frequency SEP components generated in the somatosensory cortex of the monkey

To investigate the origin of high-frequency somatosensory evoked potential (SEP) components, we recorded median nerve SEPs from the scalp and the depth in six monkeys. Laminar field potentials were analyzed in area 3b (N10; corresponding to human N20) and area 1 (P12; corresponding to human P25). After digital filtering (300-900 Hz), 4-6 components were identified, and the 1st to 4th peaks in area 3b (7-11 ms in latency) and the 3rd to 5th in area 1 (9-13 ms) showed clear polarity reversals between the surface and the depth of the cortex. These results provide direct evidence for intracortical origin of early high-frequency components in area 3b and of late ones in area 1.

The role of GTP-binding protein activity in fast central synaptic transmission

Guanosine 5'-triphosphate (GTP)-binding proteins (G proteins) are involved in exocytosis, endocytosis, and recycling of vesicles in yeast and mammalian secretory cells. However, little is known about their contribution to fast synaptic transmission. We loaded guanine nucleotide analogs directly into a giant nerve terminal in rat brainstem slices. Inhibition of G-protein activity had no effect on basal synaptic transmission, but augmented synaptic depression and significantly slowed recovery from depression. A nonhydrolyzable GTP analog blocked recovery of transmission from activity-dependent depression. Neither effect was accompanied by a change in presynaptic calcium currents. Thus, G proteins contribute to fast synaptic transmission by refilling synaptic vesicles depleted after massive exocytosis.

Particle-mediated gene transfer into murine livers using a newly developed gene gun

Although particle-mediated gene transfer using gene gun technology has been applied for gene transfer into epidermis, applications of this technology to visceral tissues have not been well investigated. Although all helium gas-driven gene gun instruments have used macrocarriers to discharge DNA-coated microprojectiles so far, we used a newly developed gene gun instrument, in which a hammering bullet is used to discharge microprojectiles. With the gene gun, gold particles coated with lacZ expression plasmid were discharged to murine livers. LacZ expression was induced much more profoundly in the liver by particle-mediated gene transfer than by simple plasmid injection and electroporation-mediated gene transfer. LacZ expression was broadly and randomly distributed throughout the bombarded livers, indicating that particle-mediated gene transfer can induce transgene expression even at relatively distant areas from the surface of the bombarded tissue. Furthermore, although transgene expression was at its peak on day 2 after the bombardment, it was still detectable even on day 28. These results indicate that particle-mediated gene transfer with a newly developed gene gun may provide a new approach to gene therapy for human diseases.

The p73 gene is not mutated in oligodendrogliomas which frequently have a deleted region at chromosome 1p36.3

An allelic loss of the chromosome 1p36 region is frequently found in oligodendrogliomas, which suggests the presence of putative tumor suppressor gene(s) in the region. Since the p73 gene, which encodes a protein with significant homology with p53, is mapped to the 1p36.33 region, we examined genetic alterations of the p73 gene in oligodendrogliomas. We screened 10 specimens for mutation throughout the p73 coding regions by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-single strand conformation polymorphism analysis and by sequencing aberrantly migrated PCR products. We found several polymorphic nucleotide changes, but no somatic mutations that caused an amino acid change. The p73 gene is thus unlikely to be a tumor suppressor gene for oligodendrogliomas.

Electrochemotherapy can eradicate established colorectal carcinoma and leaves a systemic protective memory in mice

Mice bearing subcutaneously established colorectal carcinoma (CRC) were given intratumoral, intravenous or intraperitoneal injection of various doses of bleomycin (BLM), followed by the delivery of direct current, square wave electric pulses to the tumor. Approximately 50% of animals treated with electrochemotherapy with BLM had completely eradicated established CRC tumors. Importantly, it was shown that CRC-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes were elicited in the spleens of cured animals, resulting in the protection of the rechallenge with CRC. These results indicate that electrochemotherapy with BLM is promising for the treatment of metastatic CRC as well as the original lesion.

Decline of the monkey's limbic and prefrontal activity during task repetition

In order to investigate the neural mechanism underlying the motivation, we measured the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) by positron emission tomography in a monkey that was repeatedly engaged in cognito-behavioural tasks. The rCBF of the anterior cingulate area, medial parts of prefrontal area, and hippocampal region decreased significantly with the succession of tasks within a day. The activity was restored abruptly when the reward was then increased, but decreased again on further repetition of the tasks. These findings suggest that the limbic and prefrontal areas are the regions involved in motivational function in the brain.

Probing the Site for r-Process Nucleosynthesis with Abundances of Barium and Magnesium in Extremely Metal-poor Stars

We suggest that if the astrophysical site for r-process nucleosynthesis in the early Galaxy is confined to a narrow mass range of Type II supernova (SN II) progenitors, with a lower mass limit of Mms=20 M middle dot in circle, a unique feature in the observed distribution of [Ba/Mg] versus [Mg/H] for extremely metal-poor stars can be adequately reproduced. We associate this feature, a bifurcation of the observed elemental ratios into two branches in the Mg abundance interval -3.7</=&sqbl0;Mg&solm0;H&sqbr0;</=-2.3, with two distinct processes. The first branch, which we call the y-branch, is associated with the production of Ba and Mg from individual massive supernovae. The derived mass of Ba synthesized in SNe II is 8.5x10-6 M middle dot in circle for Mms=20 M middle dot in circle and 4.5x10-8 M middle dot in circle for Mms=25 M middle dot in circle. We conclude that SNe II with Mms approximately 20 M middle dot in circle are the dominant source of r-process nucleosynthesis in the early Galaxy. An SN-induced chemical evolution model with this Mms-dependent Ba yield creates the y-branch, reflecting the different nucleosynthesis yields of [Ba/Mg] for each SN II with Mms greater, similar20 M middle dot in circle. The second branch, which we call the i-branch, is associated with the elemental abundance ratios of stars which were formed in the dense shells of the interstellar medium swept up by SNe II with Mms<20 M middle dot in circle that do not synthesize r-process elements, and it applies to stars with observed Mg abundances in the range &sqbl0;Mg&solm0;H&sqbr0;<-2.7. The Ba abundances in these stars reflect those of the interstellar gas at the (later) time of their formation. The existence of a [Ba/Mg] i-branch strongly suggests that SNe II that are associated with stars of progenitor mass Mms</=20 M middle dot in circle are infertile sources for the production of r-process elements. We predict the existence of this i-branch for other r-process elements, such as europium (Eu), to the extent that their production site is in common with Ba.

Mixed endothelin receptor antagonist, SB209670, decreases portal pressure in biliary cirrhotic rats in vivo by reducing portal venous system resistance

BACKGROUND/AIMS

This study aimed to evaluate the hemodynamic effects of endothelin-1 or mixed endothelin receptor antagonist, SB209670 in cirrhotic rats, and to elucidate the role of endothelin in cirrhotic portal hypertension.

METHODS

Secondary biliary cirrhosis was induced by bile duct ligation. Hemodynamics were studied using the radioactive microsphere technique.

RESULTS

Plasma and hepatic endothelin levels in cirrhotic rats were significantly higher than those in normal rats (plasma, 9.0+/-1.3 vs. 2.6+/-0.5 pg/ml, p<0.001; liver, 74.8+/-13.3 vs. 12.6+/-2.5 pg/g wet tissue, p<0.001). Intraportal administration of endothelin-1 (3 nmol/kg) progressively raised portal pressure without an initial transient reduction, which was observed in systemic arterial pressure, in both cirrhotic and normal rats. SB209670 (5.4 micromol/kg) reduced portal pressure in cirrhotic rats (-19+/-5%, p<0.01) without modifying systemic arterial pressure and renal blood flow, but not in normal rats. This reduction was associated with reduced portal venous system resistance (vehicle, 2.5+/-0.2 vs. SB209670, 1.7+/-0.1 mmHg x min x 100 g bw/ml, p<0.01), but not with change in portal venous inflow and collateral blood flow.

CONCLUSIONS

Mixed endothelin antagonist, SB209670, decreased portal pressure by reducing portal venous system resistance without modifying systemic arterial pressure and renal blood flow in cirrhotic rats. This result, together with the findings that plasma and hepatic endothelin levels were elevated in cirrhotic rats and that exogenous endothelin-1 increased portal pressure, provides further support for a role of endothelin in portal hypertension and suggests a potential use of mixed endothelin antagonist in the pharmacological treatment of portal hypertension.

Impairment of inhibitory synaptic transmission in mice lacking synapsin I

Deletion of the synapsin I genes, encoding one of the major groups of proteins on synaptic vesicles, in mice causes late onset epileptic seizures and enhanced experimental temporal lobe epilepsy. However, mice lacking synapsin I maintain normal excitatory synaptic transmission and modulation but for an enhancement of paired-pulse facilitation. To elucidate the cellular basis for epilepsy in mutants, we examined whether the inhibitory synapses in the hippocampus from mutant mice are intact by electrophysiological and morphological means. In the cultured hippocampal synapses from mutant mice, repeated application of a hypertonic solution significantly suppressed the subsequent transmitter release, associated with an accelerated vesicle replenishing time at the inhibitory synapses, compared with the excitatory synapses. In the mutants, morphologically identifiable synaptic vesicles failed to accumulate after application of a hypertonic solution at the inhibitory preterminals but not at the excitatory preterminals. In the CA3 pyramidal cells in hippocampal slices from mutant mice, inhibitory postsynaptic currents evoked by direct electrical stimulation of the interneuron in the striatum oriens were characterized by reduced quantal content compared with those in wild type. We conclude that synapsin I contributes to the anchoring of synaptic vesicles, thereby minimizing transmitter depletion at the inhibitory synapses. This may explain, at least in part, the epileptic seizures occurring in the synapsin I mutant mice.

Transient cyclophosphamide treatment before intraportal readministration of an adenoviral vector can induce re-expression of the original gene construct in rat liver

Although adenovirus is an attractive vehicle for transferring therapeutic genes in vivo, animal studies have indicated that the clinical usefulness of adenoviruses may be limited by their immunogenicity. Although immunosuppressive strategies around the time of initial exposure of adenoviruses have been shown to prevent the formation of neutralizing antibodies and permit the successful readministration of adenoviruses in animals, the practicality of the approaches remains questionable. Because the majority of prospective gene therapy patients have already been infected with wild-type adenoviruses, initial treatment with adenoviruses in humans may correspond to readministration of adenoviruses into animals. It is shown here that although intraportal infusion of adenoviruses carrying a reporter lacZ gene resulted in transient high levels of transgene expression in the rat liver, intraportal readministration of adenoviruses failed to induce detectable levels of transgene expression. Conversely, when animals were treated transiently with cyclophosphamide before the intraportal readministration of adenoviruses, development of neutralizing antibodies and antigen-specific T cell proliferation in response to adenoviral readministration was significantly suppressed and successful re-expression of the transgene was achievable. These results may have important implications for efficacy considerations when adenoviral vectors are employed in clinical settings.

Sonographic estimation of liver tumor development induced by oral administration of thioacetamide in rat

Animal models for various types of cancer are of great help in the study of tumors and antitumor effects. Subcutaneous models have been widely utilized because they can be produced easily by subcutaneously implanting tumor cells into animals. Although subcutaneous models are very convenient for examining tumor development, they are definitely different from clinical manifestations of original tumors. In orthotopic animal models for internal tumors, however, it is difficult to examine tumor development without sacrificing animals. We demonstrate here that the occurrence and growth of liver tumors induced by oral administration of thioacetamide into rats were clearly observable by ultrasonography, and that the sonographic estimation was accurate. It was observed sonographically that the number and volume of liver tumors increased proportionately with TAA treatment periods. These results indicate that sonography is a useful and non-invasive method to investigate liver tumor development in rats.

Activation of the insular and opercular regions of the monkey by drinking as revealed by positron emission tomography

We measured the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) of the monkey using positron emission tomography (PET) in the following conditions: self-initiated (SELF), visually-initiated (VISUAL), and color-discriminating go/no-go (GONOGO) hand movement tasks with reward of water, free reward condition (REWARD), and resting states (REST). The insulae, frontal opercula, and mouth sensorimotor area were activated in any of SELF, VISUAL, GONOGO, and REWARD, when compared with REST. These findings suggest that the insular and opercular regions play an important role in the neural processes involved in drinking.

Hepatocellular carcinoma in an orthotopic mouse model metastasizes intrahepatically in cirrhotic but not in normal liver

Prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) still remains poor mainly because of intrahepatic metastasis. In the majority of cases, HCC is found in conjunction with liver cirrhosis. It is, therefore, of great importance to investigate the invasive and metastatic behavior of HCC in cirrhotic liver. To examine this, a liver cirrhosis model was produced by injecting thioacetamide i.p. into mice. Murine HCC cells were labeled with the fluorescent carbocyanine dye, DiI, and implanted directly under the capsule of cirrhotic and normal livers of syngeneic mice. DiI-labeled HCC cells in the liver were observed under fluorescent and confocal microscopy. Histological analysis of cirrhotic and normal livers revealed that implanted HCC cells migrated to and invaded the adjacent periportal regions, but not the adjacent centrolobular areas. This characteristic behavior of HCC was more evident in cirrhotic liver than in normal liver. Furthermore, intrahepatic metastasis to unimplanted hepatic lobes was observed in cirrhotic liver as early as 7 days after implantation, while it was not detected in normal liver even 4 weeks later. Thus, an orthotopic animal model for HCC with cirrhosis described here may be suitable for investigating the invasive and metastatic behavior of HCC. Importantly, labeling tumor cells with a fluorescent dye before orthotopic implantation may be a convenient and useful method to investigate the invasive and metastatic behavior of various types of cancer.

Targeted disruption of a melanin biosynthesis gene affects conidial development and UV tolerance in the Japanese pear pathotype of Alternaria alternata

Structural analysis of the BRM2 gene involved in melanin biosynthesis of the Japanese pear pathotype of Alternaria alternata suggested that this gene encodes 1,3,8-trihydroxynaphthalene reductase. Targeted disruption of the BRM2 gene did not affect pathogenicity, vegetative growth, or the number of conidia produced. Targeted disruption, however, did reduce conidial size and septal number, suggesting that melanin is associated with conidial development. The conidia of brm2 mutant transformants were more sensitive to UV light than those of the wild type, demonstrating that melanin confers UV tolerance.

Activation of the ventral and mesial frontal cortex of the monkey by self-initiated movement tasks as revealed by positron emission tomography

In order to investigate the neural mechanisms of movement initiation, we measured the regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) of the monkey during self-initiated and visually-initiated hand movement tasks using positron emission tomography (PET). The orbitofrontal, cingulate, and anteromedial part of the dorsal premotor areas were preferentially activated by the self-initiated hand movement task (SELF). The pre-supplementary motor area and the cingulate motor area were also included in the active foci during the task. In the visually-initiated task (VISUAL), the V1, V2, V3, V3A, and V4 were activated, whereas the activity of the dorsolateral premotor and primary motor areas was not significantly different between the two tasks. These findings suggest that the orbitofrontal and mesial frontal cortices play an important role in the neural processes involved in self-initiation of movement and self-regulation of inner drives.

Analysis of intrahepatic invasion of hepatocellular carcinoma using fluorescent dye-labeled cells in mice

Despite intensive efforts in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), its prognosis remains poor, mainly because of intrahepatic metastasis. It is, therefore, important to investigate the invasive and metastatic behavior of HCC. To examine this, murine HCC cells were labeled with the fluorescent carbocyanine dye, DiI and implanted under the capsule of the liver of syngeneic mice. Optimal conditions are described for labeling HCC cells with DiI. Histological analysis using fluorescent and confocal microscopes revealed that HCC cells migrate to and invade the adjacent portal vein, but not the adjacent central vein. Conversely, DiI-labeled hepatocytes were shown not to migrate in the liver. These results suggest that intrahepatic metastasis of HCC occurs by invading the portal venous system. Furthermore, it is indicated that orthotopic implantation of fluorescent dye-labeled tumor cells may be a convenient and useful method to investigate the invasive and metastatic behavior of various types of cancer.

Facilitation of the presynaptic calcium current at an auditory synapse in rat brainstem

1. The presynaptic calcium current (IpCa) was recorded from the calyx of Held in rat brainstem slices using the whole-cell patch clamp technique. 2. Tetanic activation of IpCa by 1 ms depolarizing voltage steps markedly enhanced the amplitude of IpCa. Using a paired pulse protocol, the second (test) response was facilitated with inter-pulse intervals of less than 100 ms. The facilitation was greater at shorter intervals and was maximal (about 20%) at intervals of 5-10 ms. 3. When the test pulse duration was extended, the facilitation was revealed as an increased rate of IpCa activation. From the current-voltage relationship measured at 1 ms from onset, facilitation could be described by a shift in the half-activation voltage of about -4 mV. 4. IpCa facilitation was not attenuated when guanosine-5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTPgammaS) or guanosine-5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) (GDPbetaS) was included in the patch pipette, suggesting that G-proteins are not involved in this phenomenon. 5. On reducing [Ca2+]o, the magnitude of facilitation diminished proportionally to the amplitude of IpCa. Replacement of [Ca2+]o by Ba2+ or Na+, or buffering of [Ca2+]i with EGTA or BAPTA attenuated IpCa facilitation. 6. We conclude that repetitive presynaptic activity can facilitate the presynaptic Ca2+ current through a Ca2+-dependent mechanism. This mechanism would be complementary to the action of residual Ca2+ on the exocytotic machinery in producing activity-dependent facilitation of synaptic responses.

G-Protein-coupled modulation of presynaptic calcium currents and transmitter release by a GABAB receptor

Presynaptic GABAB receptors play a regulatory role in central synaptic transmission. To elucidate their underlying mechanism of action, we have made whole-cell recordings of calcium and potassium currents from a giant presynaptic terminal, the calyx of Held, and EPSCs from its postsynaptic target in the medial nucleus of the trapezoid body of rat brainstem slices. The GABAB receptor agonist baclofen suppressed EPSCs and presynaptic calcium currents but had no effect on voltage-dependent potassium currents. The calcium current-EPSC relationship measured during baclofen application was similar to that observed on reducing [Ca2+]o, suggesting that the presynaptic inhibition generated by baclofen is caused largely by the suppression of presynaptic calcium influx. Presynaptic loading of the GDP analog guanosine-5'-O-(2-thiodiphosphate) (GDPbetaS) abolished the effect of baclofen on both presynaptic calcium currents and EPSCs. The nonhydrolyzable GTP analog guanosine 5'-O-(3-thiotriphosphate) (GTPgammaS) suppressed presynaptic calcium currents and occluded the effect of baclofen on presynaptic calcium currents and EPSCs. Photoactivation of GTPgammaS induced an inward rectifying potassium current at the calyx of Held, whereas baclofen had no such effect. We conclude that presynaptic GABAB receptors suppress transmitter release through G-protein-coupled inhibition of calcium currents.

Significance of increased plasma adrenomedullin concentration in patients with cirrhosis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Adrenomedullin recently discovered in human pheochromocytoma is a potent vasodilatory peptide mainly derived from vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Hyperdynamic circulation, ultimately leading to ascites formation, has been attributed to peripheral vasodilatation in liver cirrhosis. However, little is known about the role of adrenomedullin in this condition.

METHODS

Plasma adrenomedullin concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay after extraction and purification in 28 cirrhotic patients without ascites, 12 cirrhotic patients with ascites and 10 healthy subjects.

RESULTS

Plasma adrenomedullin concentrations in cirrhotic patients with ascites (12.7+/-4.5 fmol/ml) were significantly higher than those in cirrhotic patients without ascites (8.2+/-2.3 fmol/ml, p<0.005) and healthy subjects (5.8+/-0.8 fmol/ml, p<0.005). Interestingly, plasma adrenomedullin concentrations were highest in patients with refractory ascites (n=5, 15.8+/-3.0 fmol/ml) and were positively correlated with the Child-Pugh score (r=0.44, p<0.01). Moreover, plasma adrenomedullin concentrations were positively correlated with plasma renin activity (r=0.63, p<0.0001), plasma aldosterone (r=0.60, p<0.0001) and plasma norepinephrine concentrations (r=0.60, p<0.0001), and negatively correlated with creatinine clearance (r=-0.61, p<0.0005) and urinary sodium excretion (r=-0.44, p<0.02). Stepwise multiple regression analysis using certain independent variables, including Pugh's score, vasoactive substances, renal function and hemodynamic parameters, showed that the adjusted R square was highest when plasma renin activity and creatinine clearance (standard coefficient=0.53, -0.49, respectively) were considered (adjusted R square=0.61, p<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Plasma adrenomedullin concentrations increased with the progression of liver cirrhosis and were highest in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites. In addition, elevated adrenomedullin was associated with activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone and sympathetic nervous systems, and with functional renal impairment in cirrhosis. Considering the potent vasodilatory action of adrenomedullin, increased adrenomedullin may participate in the hyperdynamic circulation, ultimately leading to ascites formation, in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Inactivation of presynaptic calcium current contributes to synaptic depression at a fast central synapse

Voltage-gated calcium channels are well characterized at neuronal somata but less thoroughly understood at the presynaptic terminal where they trigger transmitter release. In order to elucidate how the intrinsic properties of presynaptic calcium channels influence synaptic function, we have made direct recordings of the presynaptic calcium current (I(pCa)) in a brainstem giant synapse called the calyx of Held. The current was pharmacologically classified as P-type and exhibited marked inactivation. The inactivation was largely dependent upon the inward calcium current magnitude rather than the membrane potential, displayed little selectivity between divalent charge carriers (Ca2+, Ba2+ and Sr+), and exhibited slow recovery. Simultaneous pre- and postsynaptic whole-cell recording revealed that I(pCa) inactivation predominantly contributes to posttetanic depression of EPSCs. Thus, because of its slow recovery, I(pCa) inactivation underlies this short-term synaptic plasticity.

Circular DNA plasmid in the phytopathogenic fungus Alternaria alternata: its temperature-dependent curing and association with pathogenicity

We found the presence of plasmid DNA in strain T88-56 of the Japanese pear pathotype of Alternaria alternata, which causes black spot of certain cultivars of Japanese pear by producing host-specific AK-toxin. The plasmid, designated pAAT56, was identified to be an approximately 5.4-kilobase (kb) circular molecule by electron microscopic observation and restriction endonuclease mapping. Southern blot analysis showed that pAAT56 DNA had no homology with either nuclear or mitochondrial DNA. Cultures of strain T88-56 grown at 26 degrees showed markedly reduced plasmid levels relative to those grown at lower temperatures. The strain was completely cured of pAAT56 during growth at 29 degrees. Temperature-dependent curing of pAAT56 was confirmed by using single-protoplast isolates from mycelia grown at 23 degrees, most of which maintained the plasmid, and from mycelia grown at 29 degrees, most of which had lost the plasmid. Northern blot analysis detected the presence of three RNA species (approximately 1.7, 2.7 and 5.4 kb) transcribed from pAAT56. The biological function of pAAT56 was observed using single-protoplast isolates from mycelia that either contained or had been cured of pAAT56. The plasmid-containing isolates tended to be reduced in AK-toxin production and pathogenicity compared with the plasmid-cured isolates.

Chemical restraint of African lions (Panthera leo) with medetomidine-ketamine

Effects of a combination of medetomidine-ketamine as a chemical restraint and antagonistic effects of atipamezole on this combination were investigated in 5 lions. The medetomidine (47.6-58.4 micrograms/kg) and ketamine (1.9-5.7 mg/kg) combination provided complete immobilization with good analgesia and muscle relaxation in 4 lions, while one lioness was poorly sedated by medetomidine, and additional injections of medetomidine and ketamine were required. The duration of anesthesia seemed to be much longer than one hour in 4 of the lions. Atipamezole, at four times the preceding dose of medetomidine, provided a smooth recovery and animals were able to stand up 17-61 min after its injection. Side effects were limited to vomiting after walking in 3 of 5 lions.