Targeting melanoma stem cells with the Vitamin E derivative δ-tocotrienol.

PubMed

Marzagalli, Monica; Moretti, Roberta Manuela; Messi, Elio; Marelli, Marina Montagnani; Fontana, Fabrizio; Anastasia, Alessia; Bani, Maria Rosa; Beretta, Giangiacomo; Limonta, Patrizia

2018-01-12

The prognosis of metastatic melanoma is very poor, due to the development of drug resistance. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) may play a crucial role in this mechanism, contributing to disease relapse. We first characterized CSCs in melanoma cell lines. We observed that A375 (but not BLM) cells are able to form melanospheres and show CSCs traits: expression of the pluripotency markers SOX2 and KLF4, higher invasiveness and tumor formation capability in vivo with respect to parental adherent cells. We also showed that a subpopulation of autofluorescent cells expressing the ABCG2 stem cell marker is present in the A375 spheroid culture. Based on these data, we investigated whether δ-TT might target melanoma CSCs. We demonstrated that melanoma cells escaping the antitumor activity of δ-TT are completely devoid of the ability to form melanospheres. In contrast, cells that escaped vemurafenib treatment show a higher ability to form melanospheres than control cells. δ-TT also induced disaggregation of A375 melanospheres and reduced the spheroidogenic ability of sphere-derived cells, reducing the expression of the ABCG2 marker. These data demonstrate that δ-TT exerts its antitumor activity by targeting the CSC subpopulation of A375 melanoma cells and might represent a novel chemopreventive/therapeutic strategy against melanoma.

49 CFR 192.375 - Service lines: Plastic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Service lines: Plastic. 192.375 Section 192.375... § 192.375 Service lines: Plastic. (a) Each plastic service line outside a building must be installed... terminate above ground level and outside the building, if— (i) The above ground level part of the plastic...

49 CFR 192.375 - Service lines: Plastic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Service lines: Plastic. 192.375 Section 192.375... § 192.375 Service lines: Plastic. (a) Each plastic service line outside a building must be installed... terminate above ground level and outside the building, if— (i) The above ground level part of the plastic...

49 CFR 192.375 - Service lines: Plastic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Service lines: Plastic. 192.375 Section 192.375... § 192.375 Service lines: Plastic. (a) Each plastic service line outside a building must be installed... terminate above ground level and outside the building, if— (i) The above ground level part of the plastic...

49 CFR 192.375 - Service lines: Plastic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Service lines: Plastic. 192.375 Section 192.375... § 192.375 Service lines: Plastic. (a) Each plastic service line outside a building must be installed... terminate above ground level and outside the building, if— (i) The above ground level part of the plastic...

49 CFR 192.375 - Service lines: Plastic.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 3 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Service lines: Plastic. 192.375 Section 192.375... § 192.375 Service lines: Plastic. (a) Each plastic service line outside a building must be installed... terminate above ground level and outside the building, if— (i) The above ground level part of the plastic...

Formononetin induces apoptosis of human osteosarcoma cell line U2OS by regulating the expression of Bcl-2, Bax and MiR-375 in vitro and in vivo.

PubMed

Hu, Wei; Xiao, ZengMing

2015-01-01

Phytoestrogens are known to prevent tumor progression by inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. Formononetin is one of the main components of red clover plants, and is considered as a typical phytoestrogen. This study investigates formononetin induction of apoptosis of human osteosarcoma cell line U2OS by regulating Bcl-2 and Bax expression in vitro and in vivo. U2OS cells were treated with different concentrations of formononetin and the proliferation of the cells was measured using an MTT assay. Cell apoptosis was examined by flow cytometry. The levels of miR-375, Bax and Bcl-2 protein expression in treated cells were determined by Western blot and RT-PCR. The antitumor activity of formononetin was also evaluated in vivo in nude mice bearing orthotopic tumor implants. High concentrations of formononetin significantly suppress the proliferation of U2OS cells and induce cell apoptosis. Moreover, compared to control group the expression of Bcl-2 and miR-375 decreases with formononetin in the U2OS cells, while Bax increases. Formononetin has inhibitory effects on the proliferation of U2SO cells, both in vitro and in vivo. This antitumor effect is directly correlated with formononetin concentration. © 2015 The Author(s) Published by S. Karger AG, Basel.

Interaction of dacarbazine and imexon, in vitro and in vivo, in human A375 melanoma cells.

PubMed

Samulitis, Betty K; Dorr, Robert T; Chow, H-H Sherry

2011-09-01

We evaluated mechanisms of interaction between the alkyating agent dacarbazine (DTIC) and the pro-oxidant, imexon, in the human A375 melanoma cell line. The effect of DTIC and imexon, alone and in combination, was evaluated for growth inhibition (MTT), radiolabeled drug uptake, cellular thiol content (HPLC), and DNA strand breaks (Comet assay). Pharmacokinetic and antitumor effects were evaluated in mice. Growth inhibition in vitro was additive with the two drugs. There was no effect on drug uptake or on the number of DNA strand breaks. There was a >75% reduction in cellular glutathione and cysteine with imexon but not DTIC. Co-administration of the two drugs in mice caused an increase in the area under the curve of both drugs, but the combination was not effective in reducing human A375 melanoma tumors in vivo. Imexon and dacarbazine show additive effects in vitro but not in vivo in human A375 melanoma cells.

Differential ability of formononetin to stimulate proliferation of endothelial cells and breast cancer cells via a feedback loop involving MicroRNA-375, RASD1, and ERα.

PubMed

Chen, Jian; Zhang, Xing; Wang, Yong; Ye, Yu; Huang, Zhaoquan

2018-05-02

For postmenopausal cardiovascular disease, long-term estrogen therapy may increase the risk of breast cancer. To reduce this risk, estrogen may be replaced with the phytoestrogen formononetin, but how formononetin acts on vascular endothelial cells (ECs) and breast cancer cells is unclear. Here, we show that low concentrations of formononetin induced proliferation and inhibited apoptosis more strongly in cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) than in breast cancer cells expressing estrogen receptor α (ERα) (MCF-7, BT474) or not (MDA-MB-231), and that this differential stimulation was associated with miR-375 up-regulation in HUVECs. For the first time, we demonstrate the presence of a feedback loop involving miR-375, ras dexamethasone-induced 1 (RASD1), and ERα in normal HUVECs, and we show that formononetin stimulated this feedback loop in HUVECs but not in MCF-7 or BT474 cells. In all three cell lines, formononetin increased Akt phosphorylation and Bcl-2 expression. Inhibiting miR-375 blocked these changes and increased proliferation in HUVECs, but not in MCF-7 or BT474 cells. In ovariectomized rats, formononetin increased uterine weight and caused similar changes in levels of miR-375, RASD1, ERα, and Bcl-2 in aortic ECs as in cultured HUVECs. In mice bearing MCF-7 xenografts, tumor growth was stimulated by 17β-estradiol but not by formononetin. These results suggest selective action of formononetin in ECs (proliferation stimulation and apoptosis inhibition) relative to breast cancer cells, possibly via a feedback loop involving miR-375, RASD1, and ERα. This differential effect may explain why formononetin may not increase the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Pentoxifylline inhibits hypoxia-induced upregulation of tumor cell tissue factor and vascular endothelial growth factor.

PubMed

Amirkhosravi, A; Meyer, T; Warnes, G; Amaya, M; Malik, Z; Biggerstaff, J P; Siddiqui, F A; Sherman, P; Francis, J L

1998-10-01

Tissue factor (TF), the membrane glycoprotein that initiates blood coagulation, is constitutively expressed by many tumor cells and is implicated in peri-tumor fibrin deposition and hypercoagulability in cancer. Upregulation of tumor TF correlates with enhanced metastatic potential. Furthermore, TF has been colocalized with VEGF in breast cancer, specially at sites of early angiogenesis. There are no data on the effect of hypoxia on tumor cell TF expression. Since hypoxia is known to stimulate VEGF production, we studied whether this also induces tumor cell TF expression. Confluent monolayers of A375 melanoma, MCF-7 breast carcinoma and A549 lung carcinoma were cultured in either 95% air, 5% CO2 (normoxic) or 95% N2, 5% CO2 (hypoxic; 25-30 mmHg) for 24 h. Procoagulant activity (PCA) was measured by amidolytic and clotting assays, surface TF antigen by flow cytometry, early apoptosis by annexin V binding and VEGF levels in culture supernatants by ELISA. Hypoxia significantly increased tumor cell PCA in all three cell lines tested and TF antigen on A375 cells was increased four-fold (P <0.05). Pentoxifylline (PTX), a methylxanthine derivative, significantly inhibited the hypoxia-induced increase in PCA as well as VEGF release in all three cell lines tested. In A375 cells, PTX significantly inhibited TF antigen expression by both normoxic and hypoxic cells. Hypoxia induced a slight (5%) but not significant, increase in early apoptosis. Intravenous injection of hypoxic A375 cells into nude rats produced more pronounced thrombocytopenia (n = 5, P <0.01) and more lung metastases (n = 3, P <0.05) compared to normoxic cells. We conclude that hypoxia increases TF expression by malignant cells which enhances tumor cell-platelet binding and hematogenous metastasis. Hypoxia-induced upregulation of TF appears to parallel that of VEGF, although the mechanism remains unclear.

Selenium nanoparticles fabricated in Undaria pinnatifida polysaccharide solutions induce mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in A375 human melanoma cells.

PubMed

Chen, Tianfeng; Wong, Yum-Shing; Zheng, Wenjie; Bai, Yan; Huang, Liang

2008-11-15

Selenium nanoparticle (Nano-Se) is a novel Se species with novel biological activities and low toxicity. In the present study, we demonstrated a simple method for synthesis of size-controlled Nano-Se by adding Undaria pinnatifida polysaccharides to the redox system of selenite and ascorbic acid. A panel of four human cancer cell lines was shown to be susceptible to Nano-Se, with IC(50) values ranging from 3.0 to 14.1 microM. Treatment of A375 human melanoma cells with the Nano-Se resulted in dose-dependent cell apoptosis as indicated by DNA fragmentation and phosphatidylserine translocation. Further investigation on intracellular mechanisms found that Nano-Se treatment triggered apoptotic cell death in A375 cells with the involvement of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Our results suggest that Nano-Se may be a candidate for further evaluation as a chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent for human cancers, especially melanoma cancer.

Effects of SASH1 on melanoma cell proliferation and apoptosis in vitro.

PubMed

Lin, Sheyu; Zhang, Junyu; Xu, Jiawei; Wang, Honglian; Sang, Qing; Xing, Qinghe; He, Lin

2012-12-01

The SAM and SH3 domain containing 1 (SASH1) gene was originally identified as a potential tumor suppressor gene in breast cancer, mapped on chromosome 6q24.3. The expression of SASH1 plays a prognostic role in human colon cancer. Its expression is frequently downregulated in several human malignancies. However, the biological function of SASH1 in melanoma cells is yet to be determined. In this study, in order to investigate the tumor suppressive effects of the SASH1 gene, an A-375 stable melanoma cell line was established, overexpressing the SASH1 gene. The stable cell line was examined using proliferation assay, apoptosis assay, cell cycle analysis and real-time PCR. The results indicated that the tumor suppressive activity of SASH1 derived from G2/M arrest in A-375 cells, and that the phosphorylation of Cdc2 or the disruption of cyclin B-Cdc2 binding may be responsible for the G2/M arrest.

9-AAA inhibits growth and induces apoptosis in human melanoma A375 and rat prostate adenocarcinoma AT-2 and Mat-LyLu cell lines but does not affect the growth and viability of normal fibroblasts.

PubMed

Korohoda, Włodzimierz; Hapek, Anna; Pietrzak, Monika; Ryszawy, Damian; Madeja, Zbigniew

2016-11-01

The present study found that, similarly to 5-fluorouracil, low concentrations (1-10 µM) of 9-aminoacridine (9-AAA) inhibited the growth of the two rat prostate cancer AT-2 and Mat-LyLu cell lines and the human melanoma A375 cell line. However, at the same concentrations, 9-AAA had no effect on the growth and apoptosis of normal human skin fibroblasts (HSFs). The differences between the cellular responses of the AT-2 and Mat-LyLu cell lines, which differ in malignancy, were found to be relatively small compared with the differences between normal HSFs and the cancer cell lines. Visible effects on the cell growth and survival of tumor cell lines were observed after 24-48 h of treatment with 9-AAA, and increased over time. The inhibition of cancer cell growth was found to be due to the gradually increasing number of cells dying by apoptosis, which was observed using two methods, direct counting and FlowSight analysis. Simultaneously, cell motile activity decreased to the same degree in cancer and normal cells within the first 8 h of incubation in the presence of 9-AAA. The results presented in the current study suggest that short-lasting tests for potential anticancer substances can be insufficient; which may result in cell type-dependent differences in the responses of cells to tested compounds that act with a delay being overlooked. The observed differences in responses between normal human fibroblasts and cancer cells to 9-AAA show the requirement for additional studies to be performed simultaneously on differently reacting cancer and normal cells, to determine the molecular mechanisms responsible for these differences.

Inhibitory effect of six green tea catechins and caffeine on the growth of four selected human tumor cell lines.

PubMed

Valcic, S; Timmermann, B N; Alberts, D S; Wächter, G A; Krutzsch, M; Wymer, J; Guillén, J M

1996-06-01

Green tea is an aqueous infusion of dried unfermented leaves of Camellia sinensis (family Theaceae) from which numerous biological activities have been reported including antimutagenic, antibacterial, hypocholesterolemic, antioxidant, antitumor and cancer preventive activities. From the aqueous-alcoholic extract of green tea leaves, six compounds (+)-gallocatechin (GC), (-)-epicatechin (EC), (-)-epigallocatechin (EGC), (-)-epicatechin gallate (ECG), (-)-epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and caffeine, were isolated and purified. Together with (+)-catechin, these compounds were tested against each of four human tumor cells lines (MCF-7 breast carcinoma, HT-29 colon carcinoma, A-427 lung carcinoma and UACC-375 melanoma). The three most potent green tea components against all four tumor cell lines were EGCG, GC and EGC. EGCG was the most potent of the seven green tea components against three out of the four cell lines (i.e. MCF-7 breast cancer, HT-29 colon cancer and UACC-375 melanoma). On the basis of these extensive in vitro studies, it would be of considerable interest to evaluate all three of these components in comparative preclinical in vivo animal tumor model systems before final decisions are made concerning which of these potential chemopreventive drugs should be taken into broad clinical trials.

20 CFR 375.5 - Organization and functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

..., delegations of authority, and lines of succession. 375.5 Section 375.5 Employees' Benefits RAILROAD RETIREMENT... functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession. (a) During a national emergency... incapacity during a national emergency by the available staff member next in line of succession. Each office...

20 CFR 375.5 - Organization and functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

..., delegations of authority, and lines of succession. 375.5 Section 375.5 Employees' Benefits RAILROAD RETIREMENT... functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession. (a) During a national emergency... incapacity during a national emergency by the available staff member next in line of succession. Each office...

20 CFR 375.5 - Organization and functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

..., delegations of authority, and lines of succession. 375.5 Section 375.5 Employees' Benefits RAILROAD RETIREMENT... functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession. (a) During a national emergency... incapacity during a national emergency by the available staff member next in line of succession. Each office...

20 CFR 375.5 - Organization and functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

..., delegations of authority, and lines of succession. 375.5 Section 375.5 Employees' Benefits RAILROAD RETIREMENT... functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession. (a) During a national emergency... incapacity during a national emergency by the available staff member next in line of succession. Each office...

20 CFR 375.5 - Organization and functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

..., delegations of authority, and lines of succession. 375.5 Section 375.5 Employees' Benefits RAILROAD RETIREMENT... functions of the Board, delegations of authority, and lines of succession. (a) During a national emergency... incapacity during a national emergency by the available staff member next in line of succession. Each office...

Sodium ascorbate inhibits growth via the induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in human malignant melanoma A375.S2 cells.

PubMed

Lin, Shuw-Yuan; Lai, Wan-Wen; Chou, Chi-Chung; Kuo, Hsiu-Maan; Li, Te-Mao; Chung, Jing-Gung; Yang, Jen-Hung

2006-12-01

Vitamin C has been reported to be useful in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Inconsistent effects from growth stimulation to induction of apoptosis of malignant tumor cells, however, have been reported. Melanoma is an increasingly common and potentially lethal malignancy. It was reported that melanoma cells were more susceptible to ascorbate toxicity than any other tumor cells. The mechanisms accounting for ascorbate-induced apoptosis in human melanoma cells, however, have remained unclear. This study was undertaken to investigate the effect of sodium ascorbate on cytotoxicity and apoptosis in human malignant melanoma A375.S2 cells. A375.S2 cells were incubated with a certain range of concentrations of sodium ascorbate for various time periods. In order to examine the effects of sodium ascorbate on cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and necrosis, we performed 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride assays and flow cytometry analysis. Polymerase chain reaction was used to examine the mRNA levels of p53, p21, p27, cyclin A, cyclin E, CDK2 and CDK4, which are associated with cell cycle S-phase arrest and apoptosis. Flow cytometric analysis showed that sodium ascorbate significantly induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in the A375.S2 cell line in a dose-dependent manner. The increased expressions of p53 and p21, and the decreased expressions of cyclin A, cyclin E, CDK2 and CDK4, indicated the cell cycle arrest at G1/S phase after the cells had been treated with sodium ascorbate. Induction of apoptosis involved an increase in the levels of p53, p21 and cellular Ca, and a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential and activation of caspase 3 before culminating in apoptosis in sodium ascorbate-treated A375.S2 cells.

MiR-767 promoted cell proliferation in human melanoma by suppressing CYLD expression.

PubMed

Zhang, Kejin; Guo, Ling

2018-01-30

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators for cancer development and progression of human melanoma. However, the potential molecular mechanism of miR-767 in human melanoma has not been intensively investigated. In this present study, we confirmed that miR-767 was frequently up-regulated in human melanoma tissues and cell lines. Ectopic expression of miR-767 promoted cell proliferation in human melanoma cell lines A375 and WM35, whereas miR-767-in reversed the function. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that cylindromatosis (CYLD) was hypothesized to be a possible target gene of miR-767, and this was confirmed by luciferase activity assay. Knockdown of CYLD counteracted the proliferation arrest by miR-767-in in melanoma cells A375 and WM35. In conclusion, our study indicated that miR-767 acted as a role of tumor promoter by targeting CYLD in human melanoma, and might serve as a prognostic or therapeutic target for human melanoma. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Expression of the FAP gene in non-fibroblast human cell lines. Development of cancer-associated fibroblast models.

PubMed

Tyulkina, D V; Pleshkan, V V; Alekseenko, I V; Kopantseva, M R; Sverdlov, E D

2016-09-01

The fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is selectively expressed in cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and facilitates tumor progression, which makes this protein an attractive therapeutic target. There are difficulties in obtaining CAFs for studying the function and suppression of FAP. In this work, the expression level of FAP was determined by PCR assay in 25 human cell lines and 8 surgical samples of tumor stroma. The expression of FAP was observed in all tumor stroma samples and in four cell lines: NGP-127, SJCRH30, SJSA-1, and A375. The level of FAP expression in NGP-127, SJCRH30, and SJSA-1 lines as well as in CAFs of patients was comparable, which makes these cell lines a possible model for studying FAP.

The Efficacy of Dandelion Root Extract in Inducing Apoptosis in Drug-Resistant Human Melanoma Cells

PubMed Central

Chatterjee, S. J.; Ovadje, P.; Mousa, M.; Hamm, C.; Pandey, S.

2011-01-01

Notoriously chemoresistant melanoma has become the most prevalent form of cancer for the 25–29 North American age demographic. Standard treatment after early detection involves surgical excision (recurrence is possible), and metastatic melanoma is refractory to immuno-, radio-, and most harmful chemotherapies. Various natural compounds have shown efficacy in killing different cancers, albeit not always specifically. In this study, we show that dandelion root extract (DRE) specifically and effectively induces apoptosis in human melanoma cells without inducing toxicity in noncancerous cells. Characteristic apoptotic morphology of nuclear condensation and phosphatidylserine flipping to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane of A375 human melanoma cells was observed within 48 hours. DRE-induced apoptosis activates caspase-8 in A375 cells early on, demonstrating employment of an extrinsic apoptotic pathway to kill A375 cells. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) generated from DRE-treated isolated mitochondria indicates that natural compounds in DRE can also directly target mitochondria. Interestingly, the relatively resistant G361 human melanoma cell line responded to DRE when combined with the metabolism interfering antitype II diabetic drug metformin. Therefore, treatment with this common, yet potent extract of natural compounds has proven novel in specifically inducing apoptosis in chemoresistant melanoma, without toxicity to healthy cells. PMID:21234313

Evaluation of Melanogenesis in A-375 Cells in the Presence of DMSO and Analysis of Pyrolytic Profile of Isolated Melanin

PubMed Central

Chodurek, Ewa; Orchel, Arkadiusz; Orchel, Joanna; Kurkiewicz, Sławomir; Gawlik, Natalia; Dzierżewicz, Zofia; Stępień, Krystyna

2012-01-01

The increase of a skin malignant melanoma (melanoma malignum) incidence in the world has been observed in recent years. The tumour, especially in advanced stadium with metastases, is highly resistant to conventional treatment. One of the strategies is to modulate melanogenesis using chemical compounds. In this study, the processes of differentiation and melanogenesis induced by dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) in human melanoma cells (A-375) were investigated. Natural melanin isolated from A-375 melanoma cell line treated with 0.3% DMSO was analyzed by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) method. The products derived from pheomelanin have not been stated in the pyrolytic profile of analyzed melanin. Within all products derived from eumelanins, 1,2-benzenediol has been predominated. It has been shown that in the melanoma cells stimulated with 0.3% and 1% DMSO, the increase of transcriptional activity of the tyrosinase gene took place. It was accompanied by the rise of tyrosinase activity and an accumulation of melanin in the cells. The better knowledge about the structure of melanins can contribute to establish the uniform criteria of malignant melanoma morbidity risk. PMID:22654640

FOXP3 expression is modulated by TGF-β1/NOTCH1 pathway in human melanoma

PubMed Central

Skarmoutsou, Eva; Bevelacqua, Valentina; D'Amico, Fabio; Russo, Angela; Spandidos, Demetrios A.; Scalisi, Aurora

2018-01-01

Forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) transcription factor is expressed by immune cells and several human cancers and is associated with tumor aggressiveness and unfavorable clinical outcomes. NOTCH and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) protumorigenic effects are mediated by FOXP3 expression in several cancer models; however, their interaction and role in melanoma is unknown. We investigated TGF-β-induced FOXP3 gene expression during NOTCH1 signaling inactivation. Primary (WM35) and metastatic melanoma (A375 and A2058) cell lines and normal melanocytes (NHEM) were used. FOXP3 subcellular distribution was evaluated by immuno cytochemical analysis. Gene expression levels were assessed by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Protein levels were assessed by western blot analysis. The γ-secretase inhibitor (GSI) was used for NOTCH1 inhibition and recombinant human (rh)TGF-β was used for melanoma cell stimulation. Cell proliferation and viability were respectively assessed by MTT and Trypan blue dye assays. FOXP3 mRNA and protein levels were progressively higher in WM35, A375 and A2058 cell lines compared to NHEM and their levels were further increased after stimulation with rh-TGF-β. TGF-β-mediated FOXP3 expression was mediated by NOTCH1 signaling. Inhibition of NOTCH1 with concomitant rh-TGF-β stimulation determined the reduction in gene expression and protein level of FOXP3. Finally, melanoma cell line proliferation and viability were reduced by NOTCH1 inhibition. The results show that nn increase in FOXP3 expression in metastatic melanoma cell lines is a potential marker of tumor aggressiveness and metastasis. NOTCH1 is a central mediator of TGF-β-mediated FOXP3 expression and NOTCH1 inhibition produces a significant reduction of melanoma cell proliferation and viability. PMID:29620159

Mitogen-activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) Hyperactivation and Enhanced NRAS Expression Drive Acquired Vemurafenib Resistance in V600E BRAF Melanoma Cells*

PubMed Central

Lidsky, Michael; Antoun, Gamil; Speicher, Paul; Adams, Bartley; Turley, Ryan; Augustine, Christi; Tyler, Douglas; Ali-Osman, Francis

2014-01-01

Although targeting the V600E activating mutation in the BRAF gene, the most common genetic abnormality in melanoma, has shown clinical efficacy in melanoma patients, response is, invariably, short lived. To better understand mechanisms underlying this acquisition of resistance to BRAF-targeted therapy in previously responsive melanomas, we induced vemurafenib resistance in two V600E BRAF+ve melanoma cell lines, A375 and DM443, by serial in vitro vemurafenib exposure. The resulting approximately 10-fold more vemurafenib-resistant cell lines, A375rVem and D443rVem, had higher growth rates and showed differential collateral resistance to cisplatin, melphalan, and temozolomide. The acquisition of vemurafenib resistance was associated with significantly increased NRAS levels in A375rVem and D443rVem, increased activation of the prosurvival protein, AKT, and the MAPKs, ERK, JNK, and P38, which correlated with decreased levels of the MAPK inhibitor protein, GSTP1. Despite the increased NRAS, whole exome sequencing showed no NRAS gene mutations. Inhibition of all three MAPKs and siRNA-mediated NRAS suppression both reversed vemurafenib resistance significantly in A375rVem and DM443rVem. Together, the results indicate a mechanism of acquired vemurafenib resistance in V600E BRAF+ve melanoma cells that involves increased activation of all three human MAPKs and the PI3K pathway, as well as increased NRAS expression, which, contrary to previous reports, was not associated with mutations in the NRAS gene. The data highlight the complexity of the acquired vemurafenib resistance phenotype and the challenge of optimizing BRAF-targeted therapy in this disease. They also suggest that targeting the MAPKs and/or NRAS may provide a strategy to mitigate such resistance in V600E BRAF+ve melanoma. PMID:25063807

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) hyperactivation and enhanced NRAS expression drive acquired vemurafenib resistance in V600E BRAF melanoma cells.

PubMed

Lidsky, Michael; Antoun, Gamil; Speicher, Paul; Adams, Bartley; Turley, Ryan; Augustine, Christi; Tyler, Douglas; Ali-Osman, Francis

2014-10-03

Although targeting the V600E activating mutation in the BRAF gene, the most common genetic abnormality in melanoma, has shown clinical efficacy in melanoma patients, response is, invariably, short lived. To better understand mechanisms underlying this acquisition of resistance to BRAF-targeted therapy in previously responsive melanomas, we induced vemurafenib resistance in two V600E BRAF+ve melanoma cell lines, A375 and DM443, by serial in vitro vemurafenib exposure. The resulting approximately 10-fold more vemurafenib-resistant cell lines, A375rVem and D443rVem, had higher growth rates and showed differential collateral resistance to cisplatin, melphalan, and temozolomide. The acquisition of vemurafenib resistance was associated with significantly increased NRAS levels in A375rVem and D443rVem, increased activation of the prosurvival protein, AKT, and the MAPKs, ERK, JNK, and P38, which correlated with decreased levels of the MAPK inhibitor protein, GSTP1. Despite the increased NRAS, whole exome sequencing showed no NRAS gene mutations. Inhibition of all three MAPKs and siRNA-mediated NRAS suppression both reversed vemurafenib resistance significantly in A375rVem and DM443rVem. Together, the results indicate a mechanism of acquired vemurafenib resistance in V600E BRAF+ve melanoma cells that involves increased activation of all three human MAPKs and the PI3K pathway, as well as increased NRAS expression, which, contrary to previous reports, was not associated with mutations in the NRAS gene. The data highlight the complexity of the acquired vemurafenib resistance phenotype and the challenge of optimizing BRAF-targeted therapy in this disease. They also suggest that targeting the MAPKs and/or NRAS may provide a strategy to mitigate such resistance in V600E BRAF+ve melanoma. © 2014 by The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

In Vitro Anticancer Activity of the Crude Extract and two Dicinnamate Isolates from the Jamaican Ball Moss (Tillandsia Recurvata L.)

PubMed Central

Lowe, Henry IC; Toyang, Ngeh J.; Watson, Charah; Badal, Simone; Bahado-Singh, Perceval; Bryant, Joseph

2015-01-01

A crude chloroform extract from the Jamaican Ball Moss (Tillandsia recurvata L.) was tested for activity against three human cancer cell lines including; A375 (human melanoma), MCF-7 (human breast) and PC-3 (human prostate cancer) using the WST-1 assay. IC50s obtained against these cell lines; A375, MCF-7 and PC-3 in the presence of the crude extract are; 0.9μg/ml, 40.51μg/ml and 5.97μg/ml respectively indicating the promising anti-cancer activity of the ball moss extract. Further, preliminary phytochemical study was conducted in an attempt to identify and isolate the phytochemicals that could possibly be responsible for the observed bioactivity of the ball moss chloroform extract. As a result, two dicinnamates were isolated; 1,3-di-O-Cinnamoyl-glycerol (1) and (E)-3-(cinnamoyloxy)-2-hydroxypropyl 3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)acrylate (2) and we report for the first time isolation of compound 2. Even though the bioactivity of these two islaotes were fairly weak against the cell lines, the results presented here will prove useful for further research aimed at identifying molecules that maybe effective against melanoma, breast and prostate cancers associated with fewer side-effects. PMID:26161295

In Vitro Anticancer Activity of the Crude Extract and two Dicinnamate Isolates from the Jamaican Ball Moss (Tillandsia Recurvata L.).

PubMed

Lowe, Henry Ic; Toyang, Ngeh J; Watson, Charah; Badal, Simone; Bahado-Singh, Perceval; Bryant, Joseph

2013-01-01

A crude chloroform extract from the Jamaican Ball Moss (Tillandsia recurvata L.) was tested for activity against three human cancer cell lines including; A375 (human melanoma), MCF-7 (human breast) and PC-3 (human prostate cancer) using the WST-1 assay. IC 50 s obtained against these cell lines; A375, MCF-7 and PC-3 in the presence of the crude extract are; 0.9μg/ml, 40.51μg/ml and 5.97μg/ml respectively indicating the promising anti-cancer activity of the ball moss extract. Further, preliminary phytochemical study was conducted in an attempt to identify and isolate the phytochemicals that could possibly be responsible for the observed bioactivity of the ball moss chloroform extract. As a result, two dicinnamates were isolated; 1,3-di-O-Cinnamoyl-glycerol ( 1 ) and (E)-3-(cinnamoyloxy)-2-hydroxypropyl 3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)acrylate ( 2 ) and we report for the first time isolation of compound 2 . Even though the bioactivity of these two islaotes were fairly weak against the cell lines, the results presented here will prove useful for further research aimed at identifying molecules that maybe effective against melanoma, breast and prostate cancers associated with fewer side-effects.

Withanolides from the stems and leaves of Physalis pubescens and their cytotoxic activity.

PubMed

Xia, Guiyang; Li, Yang; Sun, Jiawen; Wang, Liqing; Tang, Xiaolong; Lin, Bin; Kang, Ning; Huang, Jian; Chen, Lixia; Qiu, Feng

2016-11-01

A phytochemical study of Physalis pubescens L. afforded twelve compounds, including six new withanolides (1, 4, and 6i-9), four new withanolide glucosides (2, 3, 5, and 6), and two known withanolides (10 and 11). Their structures were established via extensive spectroscopic analysis. The absolute configuration of 3 was assigned using X-ray crystallography, and the absolute configurations of the 1,2-diol moiety in 1 were determined using the in situ dimolybdenum electronic circular dichroism method. Compounds 7, 9, and 10 exhibited significant cytotoxicity against human prostate cancer cells (C4-2B and 22Rvl), human renal carcinoma cells (786-O, A-498, Caki-2, and ACHN), human melanoma cells (A375 and A375-S2), and human normal hepatic cell line (L02) with IC 50 values in the range of 0.17-5.30μM. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Synergistic Combination of Novel Tubulin Inhibitor ABI-274 and Vemurafenib Overcome Vemurafenib Acquired Resistance in BRAFV600E Melanoma

PubMed Central

Wang, Jin; Chen, Jianjun; Miller, Duane D.; Li, Wei

2013-01-01

Acquired clinical resistance to vemurafenib, a selective BRAFV600E inhibitor, arises frequently after short term chemotherapy. Since inhibitions of targets in the RAF-MEK-ERK pathway result in G0/G1 cell cycle arrest, vemurafenib-resistant cancer cells are expected to escape this cell cycle arrest and progress to subsequent G2/M phase. We hypothesized that a combined therapy using vemurafenib with a G2/M phase blocking agent will trap resistant cells and overcome vemurafenib resistance. To test this hypothesis, we first determined the combination index (CI) values of our novel tubulin inhibitor ABI-274 and vemurafenib on parental human A375 and MDA-MB-435 melanoma cell lines to be 0.32 and 0.1, respectively, suggesting strong synergy for the combination. We then developed an A375RF21 subline with significant acquired resistance to vemurafenib and confirmed the strong synergistic effect. Next we studied the potential mechanisms of overcoming vemurafenib resistance. Flow cytometry confirmed that the combination of ABI-274 and vemurafenib synergistically arrested cells in G1/G2/M phase, and significantly increased apoptosis in both parental A375 and the vemurafenib-resistant A375RF21 cells. Western blot analysis revealed that the combination treatment effectively reduced the level of phosphorylated and total AKT, activated the apoptosis cascade, and increased cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP, but had no significant influence on the level of ERK phosphorylation. Finally, in vivo co-administration of vemurafenib with ABI-274 showed strong synergistic efficacy in the vemurafenib-resistant xenograft model in nude mice. Overall, these results offer a rational combination strategy to significantly enhance the therapeutic benefit in melanoma patients who inevitably become resistant to current vemurafenib therapy. PMID:24249714

The Marine Fungal Metabolite, Dicitrinone B, Induces A375 Cell Apoptosis through the ROS-Related Caspase Pathway

PubMed Central

Chen, Li; Gong, Mei-Wei; Peng, Zhen-Fei; Zhou, Tong; Ying, Min-Gang; Zheng, Qiu-Hong; Liu, Qin-Ying; Zhang, Qi-Qing

2014-01-01

Dicitrinone B, a rare carbon-bridged citrinin dimer, was isolated from the marine-derived fungus, Penicillium citrinum. It was reported to have antitumor effects on tumor cells previously; however, the details of the mechanism remain unclear. In this study, we found that dicitrinone B inhibited the proliferation of multiple tumor types. Among them, the human malignant melanoma cell, A375, was confirmed to be the most sensitive. Morphologic evaluation, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis rate analysis results showed that dicitrinone B significantly induced A375 cell apoptosis. Subsequent observation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) reduction revealed that the apoptosis induced by dicitrinone B may be triggered by over-producing ROS. Further studies indicated that the apoptosis was associated with both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis pathways under the regulation of Bcl-2 family proteins. Caspase-9, caspase-8 and caspase-3 were activated during the process, leading to PARP cleavage. The pan-caspase inhibitor, Z-VAD-FMK, could reverse dicitrinone B-induced apoptosis, suggesting that it is a caspase-dependent pathway. Our data for the first time showed that dicitrinone B inhibits the proliferation of tumor cells by inducing cell apoptosis. Moreover, compared with the first-line chemotherapy drug, 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu), dicitrinone B showed much more potent anticancer efficacy, suggesting that it might serve as a potential antitumor agent. PMID:24699111

The Hidden Side of Disodium Cromolyn: from Mast Cell Stabilizer to an Angiogenic Factor and Antitumor Agent.

PubMed

Cimpean, Anca Maria; Raica, Marius

2016-12-01

Scattered data suggested that disodium cromolyn, well known as a mast cell stabilizer shows some effects on tumor cells and tumor-associated newly formed vascular networks. Most of these studies used tumor cell lines assessed by in vitro studies. Nor disodium cromolyn effects on melanoma cell lines were studied yet, neither its influence on recruited tumor blood vessels or angiogenic growth factors expression. We designed here a study regarding disodium cromolyn effects on A375 melanoma tumor cells implanted on chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and on blood vessels recruited by the experimental melanoma in the absence of mast cells, knowing that within CAM, the existence of mast cells are not certified yet. We also assessed the role of disodium cromolyn on the expression of several angiogenic growth factors. Disodium cromoglycate differentially acts on tumor cells and blood vessels. Extensive necrotic areas of experimental melanoma together with an increased number of peritumor blood vessels were observed in treated specimens as compared with untreated tumors. Disodium cromolyn inhibited VEGF and PDGF-BB expression, and had no effects on EG VEGF expression between treated and non treated specimens in a mast cells free microenvironment. Our results sustain the direct antitumor effects of sodium cromolyn and suggest the involvement of several growth factors in the recruitment of tumor vessels by A375 melanoma tumor cells. The expression of growth factors is differentially influenced by sodium cromolyn treatment.

In vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activity of human lactoferricin derived antitumor peptide R-DIM-P-LF11-334 on human malignant melanoma

PubMed Central

Riedl, Sabrina; Rinner, Beate; Schaider, Helmut; Liegl-Atzwanger, Bernadette; Meditz, Katharina; Preishuber-Pflügl, Julia; Grissenberger, Sarah; Lohner, Karl; Zweytick, Dagmar

2017-01-01

Di-peptides derived from the human host defense peptide lactoferricin were previously described to specifically interact with the negatively charged lipid phosphatidylserine exposed by cancer cells. In this study one further derivative, namely R-DIM-P-LF11-334 is shown to exhibit even increased cancer toxicity in vitro and in vivo while non-neoplastic cells are not harmed. In liposomal model systems composed of phosphatidylserine mimicking cancerous and phosphatidylcholine mimicking non-cancerous membranes the specific interaction with the cancer marker PS was confirmed by specific induction of membrane perturbation and permeabilization in presence of the peptide. In vitro studies with cell lines of human malignant melanoma, such as A375, or primary cells of human melanoma metastases to the brain, as MUG Mel1, and non-neoplastic human dermal fibroblasts NHDF revealed high cytotoxic effect of R-DIM-P-LF11-334 on melanoma cells of A375 and MUG Mel1, whereas only minor effect on the dermal fibroblasts NHDF was observed, yielding an about 20-fold killing-specificity for A375 and MUG-Mel1. The LC50 values for melanoma A375 and MUG Mel1 were about 10 μM. Analysis of secondary structure of the peptide revealed an increase in the proportion of β-sheets exclusively in presence of the cancer mimic. Stability studies further indicated a potential adequate stability in blood or under stringent conditions. Importantly the cytotoxic effect on cancer cells was also proven in vivo in mouse xenografts of human melanoma, where peptide treatment induced strong tumor regression and in average a tumor area reduction of 85% compared to tumors of control mice without peptide treatment. PMID:29069749

In vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activity of human lactoferricin derived antitumor peptide R-DIM-P-LF11-334 on human malignant melanoma.

PubMed

Riedl, Sabrina; Rinner, Beate; Schaider, Helmut; Liegl-Atzwanger, Bernadette; Meditz, Katharina; Preishuber-Pflügl, Julia; Grissenberger, Sarah; Lohner, Karl; Zweytick, Dagmar

2017-09-22

Di-peptides derived from the human host defense peptide lactoferricin were previously described to specifically interact with the negatively charged lipid phosphatidylserine exposed by cancer cells. In this study one further derivative, namely R-DIM-P-LF11-334 is shown to exhibit even increased cancer toxicity in vitro and in vivo while non-neoplastic cells are not harmed. In liposomal model systems composed of phosphatidylserine mimicking cancerous and phosphatidylcholine mimicking non-cancerous membranes the specific interaction with the cancer marker PS was confirmed by specific induction of membrane perturbation and permeabilization in presence of the peptide. In vitro studies with cell lines of human malignant melanoma, such as A375, or primary cells of human melanoma metastases to the brain, as MUG Mel1, and non-neoplastic human dermal fibroblasts NHDF revealed high cytotoxic effect of R-DIM-P-LF11-334 on melanoma cells of A375 and MUG Mel1, whereas only minor effect on the dermal fibroblasts NHDF was observed, yielding an about 20-fold killing-specificity for A375 and MUG-Mel1. The LC 50 values for melanoma A375 and MUG Mel1 were about 10 μM. Analysis of secondary structure of the peptide revealed an increase in the proportion of β-sheets exclusively in presence of the cancer mimic. Stability studies further indicated a potential adequate stability in blood or under stringent conditions. Importantly the cytotoxic effect on cancer cells was also proven in vivo in mouse xenografts of human melanoma, where peptide treatment induced strong tumor regression and in average a tumor area reduction of 85% compared to tumors of control mice without peptide treatment.

Vitamin E δ-tocotrienol triggers endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated apoptosis in human melanoma cells

PubMed Central

Montagnani Marelli, Marina; Marzagalli, Monica; Moretti, Roberta M.; Beretta, Giangiacomo; Casati, Lavinia; Comitato, Raffaella; Gravina, Giovanni L.; Festuccia, Claudio; Limonta, Patrizia

2016-01-01

Malignant melanoma is the leading cause of death from skin cancer. Drug toxicity and resistance represent a serious challange for melanoma treatments. Evidence demonstrates that natural compounds may play a crucial role in cancer prevention, growth and progression. Vitamin E tocotrienols (TT) were shown to possess antitumor activity. Here, we analyzed the effects of δ-TT on melanoma cell growth and the involvement of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in this activity. The experiments were performed on human melanoma cell lines, BLM and A375. δ-TT exerted a significant proapoptotic effect on both cell lines, involving the intrinsic apoptosis pathway; importantly, this compound did not affect the viability of normal human melanocytes. In melanoma cells, δ-TT exerted its antitumor effect through activation of the PERK/p-eIF2α/ATF4/CHOP, IRE1α and caspase-4 ER stress-related branches. Salubrinal, an inhibitor of the ER stress, counteracted the cytotoxic activity of δ-TT. In vivo experiments performed in nude mice bearing A375 xenografts evidenced that δ-TT reduces tumor volume and tumor mass; importantly, tumor progression was significantly delayed by δ-TT treatment. In conclusion, δ-TT exerts a proapoptotic activity on melanoma cells, through activation of the ER stress-related pathways. δ-TT might represent an effective option for novel chemopreventive/therapeutic strategies for melanoma. PMID:27461002

Fig latex (Ficus carica L. cultivar Dottato) in combination with UV irradiation decreases the viability of A375 melanoma cells in vitro.

PubMed

Menichini, Giulio; Alfano, Carmine; Provenzano, Eugenio; Marrelli, Mariangela; Statti, Giancarlo A; Somma, Francesco; Menichini, Francesco; Conforti, Filomena

2012-10-01

Melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers are among the most prevalent cancers in the human population. In the present work latex of Ficus carica cultivar Dottato from Italy collected from fruits and leaves was examined to assess its free radical-scavenging activity with 1,1-diphenyl-2 picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and its phototoxicity on A375 human melanoma cells. The latex obtained from the fruits of Ficus carica cv. Dottato showed the best antiradical activity with an IC50 value of 0.05 mg/ml while the latex obtained from the leaves showed the best antiproliferative activity with an IC50 value of 1.5 μg/ml on the human tumor cell line A375 (melanoma) after irradiation at a specific UVA dose (1.08 J/cm2). Control experiments with UVA light or drugs alone were carried out without significant cytotoxic effects. Polyphenolic content of the samples was also evaluated. This is the first study comparing F. carica latex of leaves and fruits. Plant derived natural products have long been and will continue to be an important source for anticancer drug development.

Phytochemical Screening and Biological Activity of Mentha × piperita L. and Lavandula angustifolia Mill. Extracts

PubMed Central

Alexa, Ersilia; Radulov, Isidora; Obistioiu, Diana; Sumalan, Renata Maria; Morar, Adriana

2018-01-01

The present study aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition of Mentha × piperita L. (MP) and Lavandula angustifolia Mill. (LA) extracts in terms of hydroxycinnamic acid (HCAs) content, in particular, caffeic (CA), p-cumaric (CU), ferulic (FE), and rosmarinic (RS) acids using LC-MS. Also, the in vitro antimicrobial effect against Staphylococcus aureus and the antiproliferative activity against two cancerous cell lines (A375 and MDA-MB-231) using the MTT assay were tested. The extracts were prepared using aromatic water which resulted from the extraction of oils from plants as extraction medium, with/without acid. The results showed that RS and FE represent the majority of HCAs compounds; the highest content of FE is found in LA (7.47 mg·g–1d.m.), and the maximum content of RS in MP (6.36 mg·g–1d.m.). Regarding the antimicrobial effect against Staphylococcus aureus, the two extracts showed a simulative role on the growth rate of Staphyloccocus aureus, but a slightly inhibitory effect (69.12%) can be attributed to the acidic environment. In terms of biological activity against MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cell line, and A375 human melanoma cell line, at the highest employed concentration, 150 μg·mL–1, the tested extracts present a weak antiproliferative effect. PMID:29552454

CD147-targeting siRNA inhibits cell-matrix adhesion of human malignant melanoma cells by phosphorylating focal adhesion kinase.

PubMed

Nishibaba, Rie; Higashi, Yuko; Su, Juan; Furukawa, Tatsuhiko; Kawai, Kazuhiro; Kanekura, Takuro

2012-01-01

CD147/basigin, highly expressed on the surface of malignant tumor cells including malignant melanoma (MM) cells, plays a critical role in the invasiveness and metastasis of MM. Metastasis is an orchestrated process comprised of multiple steps including adhesion and invasion. Integrin, a major adhesion molecule, co-localizes with CD147/basigin on the cell surface. Using the human MM cell line A375 that highly expresses CD147/basigin, we investigated whether CD147/basigin is involved in adhesion in association with integrin. CD147/basigin was knocked-down using siRNA targeting CD147 to elucidate the role of CD147/basigin. Cell adhesion was evaluated by adhesion assay on matrix-coated plates. The localization of integrin was inspected under a confocal microscope and the expression and phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a downstream kinase of integrin, were examined by western blot analysis. Silencing of CD147/basigin in A375 cells by siRNA induced the phosphorylation of FAK at Y397. Integrin identified on the surface of parental cells was distributed in a speckled fashion in the cytoplasm of CD147 knockdown cells, resulting in morphological changes from a round to a polygonal shape with pseudopodial protrusions. Silencing of CD147/basigin in A375 cells clearly weakened their adhesiveness to collagen I and IV. Our results suggest that CD147/basigin regulates the adhesion of MM cells to extracellular matrices and of integrin β1 signaling via the phosphorylation of FAK. © 2011 Japanese Dermatological Association.

In Vitro and In Vivo Toxicity Profiling of Ammonium-Based Deep Eutectic Solvents

PubMed Central

Hayyan, Maan; Looi, Chung Yeng; Hayyan, Adeeb; Wong, Won Fen; Hashim, Mohd Ali

2015-01-01

The cytotoxic potential of ammonium-based deep eutectic solvents (DESs) with four hydrogen bond donors, namely glycerine (Gl), ethylene glycol (EG), triethylene glycol (TEG) and urea (U) were investigated. The toxicity of DESs was examined using In Vitro cell lines and In Vivo animal model. IC50 and selectivity index were determined for the DESs, their individual components and their combinations as aqueous solutions for comparison purposes. The cytotoxicity effect of DESs varied depending on cell lines. The IC50 for the GlDES, EGDES, UDES and TEGDES followed the sequence of TEGDES< GlDES< EGDES< UDES for OKF6, MCF-7, A375, HT29 and H413, respectively. GlDES was selective against MCF-7 and A375, EGDES was selective against MCF-7, PC3, HepG2 and HT29, UDES was selective against MCF-7, PC3, HepG2 and HT29, and TEGDES was selective against MCF-7 and A375. However, acute toxicity studies using ICR mice showed that these DESs were relatively toxic in comparison to their individual components. DES did not cause DNA damage, but it could enhance ROS production and induce apoptosis in treated cancer cells as evidenced by marked LDH release. Furthermore, the examined DESs showed less cytotoxicity compared with ionic liquids. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that combined In Vitro and In Vivo toxicity profiles of DESs were being demonstrated, raising the toxicity issue of these neoteric mixtures and their potential applicability to be used for therapeutic purposes. PMID:25679975

Silymarin inhibits melanoma cell growth both in vitro and in vivo by targeting cell cycle regulators, angiogenic biomarkers and induction of apoptosis.

PubMed

Vaid, Mudit; Singh, Tripti; Prasad, Ram; Katiyar, Santosh K

2015-11-01

Cutaneous malignant melanoma is the leading cause of death from skin diseases and is often associated with activating mutations of the proto-oncogene BRAF. To develop more effective strategies for the prevention or treatment of melanoma, we have examined the inhibitory effects of silymarin, a flavanoid from Silybum marianum, on melanoma cells. Using A375 (BRAF-mutated) and Hs294t (non BRAF-mutated but highly metastatic) human melanoma cell lines, we found that in vitro treatment with silymarin resulted in a dose-dependent: (i) reduction in cell viability; (ii) enhancement of either Go/G1 (A375) or G2-M (Hs294t) phase cell cycle arrest with corresponding alterations in cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases; and (iii) induction of apoptosis. The silymarin-induced apoptosis of human melanoma cells was associated with a reduction in the levels of anti-apoptotic proteins (Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl), an increase in the levels of pro-apoptotic protein (Bax), and activation of caspases. Further, oral administration of silymarin (500 mg/kg body weight/2× a week) significantly inhibited (60%, P < 0.01) the growth of BRAF-mutated A375 melanoma tumor xenografts, and this was associated with: (i) inhibition of cell proliferation; (ii) induction of apoptosis of tumor cells; (iii) alterations in cell cycle regulatory proteins; and (iv) reduced expression of tumor angiogenic biomarkers in tumor xenograft tissues. These results indicate that silymarin may have a chemotherapeutic effect on human melanoma cell growth and warrant its further evaluation. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

MiR-375, a microRNA related to diabetes.

PubMed

Li, Xueling

2014-01-01

MiR-375 is an important small non-coding RNA that is specifically expressed in islet cells of the pancreas. miR-375 is required for normal pancreatic genesis and influences not only β-cell mass but also α-cell mass. miR-375 is also important to glucose-regulated insulin secretion through the regulation of the expression of Mtpn and Pdk1 genes. When human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) differentiate into endodermal lineages, miR-375 is highly expressed in the definitive endoderm, which suggests that miR-375 may have a distinct role in early development. miR-375 plays an important role in the complex regulatory network of pancreatic development, which could be regulated by pancreatic genes, such as NeuroD1, Ngn3, Pdx1 and Hnf6; additionally, miR-375 regulates genes related to pancreas development, cell growth and proliferation and insulin secretion genes to exert its function. Because of the special role of miR-375, it may be a potential target to treat diabetes. Antagonising miR-375 may enhance the effects of exendin-4 in patients, and controlling the expression of miR-375 could assist mature hESCs-derived β-cells. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Envelope residue 375 substitutions in simian–human immunodeficiency viruses enhance CD4 binding and replication in rhesus macaques

PubMed Central

Li, Hui; Wang, Shuyi; Kong, Rui; Ding, Wenge; Lee, Fang-Hua; Parker, Zahra; Kim, Eunlim; Learn, Gerald H.; Hahn, Paul; Policicchio, Ben; Brocca-Cofano, Egidio; Deleage, Claire; Hao, Xingpei; Chuang, Gwo-Yu; Gorman, Jason; Gardner, Matthew; Lewis, Mark G.; Hatziioannou, Theodora; Santra, Sampa; Apetrei, Cristian; Pandrea, Ivona; Alam, S. Munir; Liao, Hua-Xin; Shen, Xiaoying; Tomaras, Georgia D.; Farzan, Michael; Chertova, Elena; Keele, Brandon F.; Estes, Jacob D.; Lifson, Jeffrey D.; Doms, Robert W.; Montefiori, David C.; Haynes, Barton F.; Sodroski, Joseph G.; Kwong, Peter D.; Hahn, Beatrice H.; Shaw, George M.

2016-01-01

Most simian–human immunodeficiency viruses (SHIVs) bearing envelope (Env) glycoproteins from primary HIV-1 strains fail to infect rhesus macaques (RMs). We hypothesized that inefficient Env binding to rhesus CD4 (rhCD4) limits virus entry and replication and could be enhanced by substituting naturally occurring simian immunodeficiency virus Env residues at position 375, which resides at a critical location in the CD4-binding pocket and is under strong positive evolutionary pressure across the broad spectrum of primate lentiviruses. SHIVs containing primary or transmitted/founder HIV-1 subtype A, B, C, or D Envs with genotypic variants at residue 375 were constructed and analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Bulky hydrophobic or basic amino acids substituted for serine-375 enhanced Env affinity for rhCD4, virus entry into cells bearing rhCD4, and virus replication in primary rhCD4 T cells without appreciably affecting antigenicity or antibody-mediated neutralization sensitivity. Twenty-four RMs inoculated with subtype A, B, C, or D SHIVs all became productively infected with different Env375 variants—S, M, Y, H, W, or F—that were differentially selected in different Env backbones. Notably, SHIVs replicated persistently at titers comparable to HIV-1 in humans and elicited autologous neutralizing antibody responses typical of HIV-1. Seven animals succumbed to AIDS. These findings identify Env–rhCD4 binding as a critical determinant for productive SHIV infection in RMs and validate a novel and generalizable strategy for constructing SHIVs with Env glycoproteins of interest, including those that in humans elicit broadly neutralizing antibodies or bind particular Ig germ-line B-cell receptors. PMID:27247400

Mitochondrial ATF2 translocation contributes to apoptosis induction and BRAF inhibitor resistance in melanoma through the interaction of Bim with VDAC1.

PubMed

Gao, Zongwei; Shang, Qingjuan; Liu, Zhaoyun; Deng, Chun; Guo, Chunbao

2015-11-03

The mitochondrial accumulation of ATF2 is involved in tumor suppressor activities via cytochrome c release in melanoma cells. However, the signaling pathways that connect mitochondrial ATF2 accumulation and cytochrome c release are not well documented. Several melanoma cell lines, B16F10, K1735M2, A375 and A375-R1, were treated with paclitaxel and vemurafenib to test the function of mitochondrial ATF2 and its connection to Bim and voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1). Immunoprecipitation analysis was performed to investigate the functional interaction between the involved proteins. VDAC1 oligomerization was evaluated using an EGS-based crosslinking assay. The expression and migration of ATF2 to the mitochondria accounted for paclitaxel stimuli and acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors. Mitochondrial ATF2 facilitated Bim stabilization through the inhibition of its degradation by the proteasome, thereby promoting cytochrome c release and inducing apoptosis in B16F10 and A375 cells. Studies using B16F10 and A375 cells genetically modified for ATF2 indicated that mitochondrial ATF2 was able to dissociate Bim from the Mcl-1/Bim complex to trigger VDAC1 oligomerization. Immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that Bim interacts with VDAC1, and this interaction was remarkably enhanced during apoptosis. These results reveal that mitochondrial ATF2 is associated with the induction of apoptosis and BRAF inhibitor resistance through Bim activation, which might suggest potential novel therapies for the targeted induction of apoptosis in melanoma therapy.

Mitochondrial ATF2 translocation contributes to apoptosis induction and BRAF inhibitor resistance in melanoma through the interaction of Bim with VDAC1

PubMed Central

Deng, Chun; Guo, Chunbao

2015-01-01

Background The mitochondrial accumulation of ATF2 is involved in tumor suppressor activities via cytochrome c release in melanoma cells. However, the signaling pathways that connect mitochondrial ATF2 accumulation and cytochrome c release are not well documented. Methods Several melanoma cell lines, B16F10, K1735M2, A375 and A375-R1, were treated with paclitaxel and vemurafenib to test the function of mitochondrial ATF2 and its connection to Bim and voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1). Immunoprecipitation analysis was performed to investigate the functional interaction between the involved proteins. VDAC1 oligomerization was evaluated using an EGS-based crosslinking assay. Results The expression and migration of ATF2 to the mitochondria accounted for paclitaxel stimuli and acquired resistance to BRAF inhibitors. Mitochondrial ATF2 facilitated Bim stabilization through the inhibition of its degradation by the proteasome, thereby promoting cytochrome c release and inducing apoptosis in B16F10 and A375 cells. Studies using B16F10 and A375 cells genetically modified for ATF2 indicated that mitochondrial ATF2 was able to dissociate Bim from the Mcl-1/Bim complex to trigger VDAC1 oligomerization. Immunoprecipitation analysis revealed that Bim interacts with VDAC1, and this interaction was remarkably enhanced during apoptosis. Conclusion These results reveal that mitochondrial ATF2 is associated with the induction of apoptosis and BRAF inhibitor resistance through Bim activation, which might suggest potential novel therapies for the targeted induction of apoptosis in melanoma therapy. PMID:26462148

Hypericum perforatum L. subsp. perforatum induces inhibition of free radicals and enhanced phototoxicity in human melanoma cells under ultraviolet light.

PubMed

Menichini, G; Alfano, C; Marrelli, M; Toniolo, C; Provenzano, E; Statti, G A; Nicoletti, M; Menichini, F; Conforti, F

2013-04-01

Our interest continues in discovering phytocomplexes from medicinal plants with phototoxic activity against human melanoma cells; thus the aim of the present study was to assess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and phototoxic activity of Hypericum perforatum L. subsp. perforatum, and relate these properties to the plant's chemical composition. Components of H. perforatum subsp. perforatum were extracted by hydroalcoholic solution and chemical profiles of preparations (HyTE-3) performed by HPTLC. Linoleic acid peroxidation and DPPH tests were used to assess antioxidant activity, while MTT assay allowed evaluation of anti-proliferative activity with respect to A375 human melanoma cells after irradiation with UVA dose, 1.8 J/cm(2) . Inhibition of nitric oxide production of macrophages was also investigated. HyTE-3 indicated better antioxidant activity with β-carotene bleaching test in comparison to DPPH assay (IC50 = 0.89 μg/ml); significant phototoxicity in A375 cells at 78 μg/ml concentration resulted in cell destruction of 50%. HyTE-3 caused significant dose-related inhibition of nitric oxide production in murine monocytic macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 with IC50 value of 342 μg/ml. The H. perforatum subsp. perforatum-derived product was able to suppress proliferation of human malignant melanoma A375 cells; extract together with UVA irradiation enhanced phototoxicity. This biological activity of antioxidant effects was combined with inhibition of nitric oxide production. © 2013 Blackwell Publishing Ltd.

Induction of apoptosis in melanoma A375 cells by a chloroform fraction of Centratherum anthelminticum (L.) seeds involves NF-kappaB, p53 and Bcl-2-controlled mitochondrial signaling pathways.

PubMed

Looi, Chung Yeng; Moharram, Bushra; Paydar, Mohammadjavad; Wong, Yi Li; Leong, Kok Hoong; Mohamad, Khalit; Arya, Aditya; Wong, Won Fen; Mustafa, Mohd Rais

2013-07-10

Centratherum anthelminticum (L.) Kuntze (scientific synonyms: Vernonia anthelmintica; black cumin) is one of the ingredients of an Ayurvedic preparation, called "Kayakalp", commonly applied to treat skin disorders in India and Southeast Asia. Despite its well known anti-inflammatory property on skin diseases, the anti-cancer effect of C. anthelminticum seeds on skin cancer is less documented. The present study aims to investigate the anti-cancer effect of Centratherum anthelminticum (L.) seeds chloroform fraction (CACF) on human melanoma cells and to elucidate the molecular mechanism involved. A chloroform fraction was extracted from C. anthelminticum (CACF). Bioactive compounds of the CACF were analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Human melanoma cell line A375 was treated with CACF in vitro. Effects of CACF on growth inhibition, morphology, stress and survival of the cell were examined with MTT, high content screening (HSC) array scan and flow cytometry analyses. Involvement of intrinsic or extrinsic pathways in the CACF-induced A375 cell death mechanism was examined using a caspase luminescence assay. The results were further verified with different caspase inhibitors. In addition, Western blot analysis was performed to elucidate the changes in apoptosis-associated molecules. Finally, the effect of CACF on the NF-κB nuclear translocation ability was assayed. The MTT assay showed that CACF dose-dependently inhibited cell growth of A375, while exerted less cytotoxic effect on normal primary epithelial melanocytes. We demonstrated that CACF induced cell growth inhibition through apoptosis, as evidenced by cell shrinkage, increased annexin V staining and formation of membrane blebs. CACF treatment also resulted in higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and lower Bcl-2 expression, leading to decrease mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP). Disruption of the MMP facilitated the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c, which activates caspase-9 and downstream caspase-3/7, resulting in DNA fragmentation and up-regulation of p53 in melanoma cells. Moreover, CACF prevented TNF-α-induced NF-κB nuclear translocation, which further committed A375 cells toward apoptosis. Together, our findings suggest CACF as a potential therapeutic agent against human melanoma malignancy.

Overexpression of microRNA-375 impedes platelet-derived growth factor-induced proliferation and migration of human fetal airway smooth muscle cells by targeting Janus kinase 2.

PubMed

Ji, Yamei; Yang, Xin; Su, Huixia

2018-02-01

The abnormal proliferation and migration of airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells play a critical role in airway remodeling during the development of asthma. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as critical regulators of ASM cell proliferation and migration in airway remodeling. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential role of miR-375 in the regulation of platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF)-induced fetal ASM cell proliferation and migration. Our results showed that miR-375 expression was significantly decreased in fetal ASM cells that were treated with PDGF. Functional data showed that overexpression of miR-375 inhibited the proliferation and migration of fetal ASM cells, whereas inhibition of miR-375 enhanced the proliferation and migration of fetal ASM cells. The results of bioinformatics analysis and a dual-luciferase reporter assay showed that miR-375 binds directly to the 3'-untranslated region of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2). Further data confirmed that miR-375 negatively regulates the expression of JAK2 in fetal ASM cells. Moreover, miR-375 also impeded the PDGF-induced activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in fetal ASM cells. However, restoration of JAK2 expression partially reversed the inhibitory effect of miR-375 on fetal ASM cell proliferation and migration. Overall, our results demonstrate that miR-375 inhibits fetal ASM cell proliferation and migration by targeting JAK2/STAT3 signaling. Our study provides a potential therapeutic target for the development of novel treatment strategies for pediatric asthma. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Metallic copper nanoparticles induce apoptosis in a human skin melanoma A-375 cell line

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakraborty, Ruchira; Basu, Tarakdas

2017-03-01

In two earlier communications (Chatterjee et al 2012 Nanotechnology 23 085103, Chatterjee et al 2014 Nanotechnology 25 135101), we reported the development of a simple and unique method of synthesizing highly stable metallic copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) with high antibacterial activity. Here we report on the cytotoxic potency of the NPs against cancer cells. The value of the IC50 dose of the Cu NPs against human skin cancer cell A-375 was found to be 1.71 μg ml-1 only, which was much less than values reported so far, and this concentration had no cytotoxic effect on normal white blood cells. The NPs caused (i) lowering of cell membrane rigidity, (ii) DNA degradation, (iii) chromosomal condensation, (iv) cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase, (v) depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane and (vi) apoptosis of cells. Cellular apoptosis occurred in the caspase-9-mediated intrinsic pathway. This study revealed that our Cu NPs had high anticancer properties by killing tumor cells through the apoptotic pathway. Since this particle has high antibacterial activity, our Cu NPs might be developed in future as a dual action drug—anticancer as well as antibacterial.

Delivery of miR-375 and doxorubicin hydrochloride by lipid-coated hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles to overcome multiple drug resistance in hepatocellular carcinoma

PubMed Central

Xue, Huiying; Yu, Zhaoyang; Liu, Yong; Yuan, Weigang; Yang, Tan; You, Jia; He, Xingxing; Lee, Robert J; Li, Lei; Xu, Chuanrui

2017-01-01

Multidrug resistance (MDR) due to overexpression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) is a major obstacle that hinders the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). It has been shown that miR-375 inhibits P-gp expression via inhibition of astrocyte elevated gene-1 (AEG-1) expression in HCC, and induces apoptosis in HCC cells by targeting AEG-1 and YAP1. In this study, we prepared lipid-coated hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (LH) containing doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) and miR-375 (LHD/miR-375) to deliver the two agents into MDR HCC cells in vitro and in vivo. We found that LHD/miR-375 overcame drug efflux and delivered miR-375 and DOX into MDR HepG2/ADR cells or HCC tissues. MiR-375 delivered by LHD/miR-375 was taken up through phagocytosis and clathrin- and caveolae-mediated endocytosis. Following release from late endosomes, it repressed the expression of P-gp in HepG2/ADR cells. The synergistic effects of miR-375 and hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSN) resulted in a profound increase in the uptake of DOX by the HCC cells and prevented HCC cell growth. Enhanced antitumor effects of LHD/miR-375 were also validated in HCC xenografts and primary tumors; however, no significant toxicity was observed. Mechanistic studies also revealed that miR-375 and DOX exerted a synergistic antitumor effect by promoting apoptosis. Our study illustrates that delivery of miR-375 using HMSN is a feasible approach to circumvent MDR in the management of HCC. It, therefore, merits further development for potential clinical application. PMID:28769563

Effect of heat stress on blood rheology in different pigs breeds.

PubMed

Waltz, Xavier; Baillot, Michelle; Connes, Philippe; Gourdine, Jean-Luc; Philibert, Lucien; Beltan, Eric; Chalabi, Tawfik; Renaudeau, David

2014-01-01

The main objectives of the present work were to test the effects of heat stress on blood rheology and to determine whether the responses can change according to the pig breeds. Thirty-six pigs from three pig's lines (n = 12 for each line) with assumed different tolerance to heat stress were compared: Large White (LW, little tolerance), Creole (CR, good tolerance) and LW × CR pigs (produced from a cross between LW and CR lines). In a first period, all pigs were exposed to a 9-d period of thermo-neutral environment (24°C; d-9 to d-1; P0). At the end of P0, six pigs from each line were slaughtered (n = 18). Then in a second period, the remaining pigs (6/breed; n = 18) were exposed to a 5-d period of heat stress (32°C; d + 1 -d + 5; P1) and thereafter slaughtered at d + 5. Rectal and skin temperatures, as well as respiratory rate, were recorded on d-1 and d + 5. At slaughter, blood was sampled for hematological and hemorheological measurements. Heat stress caused a rise of the skin temperature and respiratory rate without any changes in the rectal temperature or on the hematological and hemorheological parameters when all pigs' lines were considered. We observed a pig line effect on blood viscosity at high shear rate (375 s-1) and red blood cell deformability at 30 Pa with CR pigs having lower blood viscosity and higher red blood cell deformability than LW pigs. While the changes of blood viscosity under heat stress did not reach statistical significance in LW and CR lines, blood viscosity (at 375 s-1) increased above the temperate values in the LW × CR line. Red blood cell deformability at 30 Pa was higher in CR pigs exposed to heat stress compared to LW pigs in the same condition. In conclusion, thermal loading caused physiological stress but did not widely change the hematological and hemorheological profiles. Although some blood rheological parameters seem to vary with the pig breeds, the responses to heat stress are very similar.

Effect of capping agents on the cytotoxicity of silver nanoparticles in human normal and cancer skin cell lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Netchareonsirisuk, Ponsawan; Puthong, Songchan; Dubas, Stephan; Palaga, Tanapat; Komolpis, Kittinan

2016-11-01

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are among the most widely used nanomaterials in medical and consumer products. However, safety in the uses of AgNPs is still controversial. The toxicity of AgNPs toward various cell types has been reported to depend on the surface properties of the nanoparticles. In this study, the effect of AgNPs with the average size of 5-15 nm on the viability of the CCD-986SK human normal skin fibroblast cell line and A375 human malignant melanoma cell line was evaluated. Comparative toxicity studies, based on MTT assay, were performed by using either sodium alginate or poly (4-styrenesulfonic acid-co-maleic acid) sodium salt (PSSMA) as capping agent in the nanoparticle preparation. The cytotoxicity tests revealed that AgNO3 alone was highly toxic to both cell types while both alginate and PSSMA alone were not toxic. AgNPs capped with alginate were selectively toxic to the cancer cell line but not to the normal cell line while AgNPs capped with PSSMA were toxic to both cancer and normal cell lines. Judging from the 50 % inhibition concentration (IC50), it was found that the cancer cell line was more sensitive to AgNPs than the normal cell line. Study on the mode of cell death by annexin V and propidium iodide staining revealed that AgNPs induced more apoptotic cell death (84-90 %) than necrosis (8-12 %) in the skin cancer cell line. These results suggest that the toxicity of AgNPs depended on the type of capping agent and the type of cell line.

The fibrous form of intracellular inclusion bodies in recombinant variant fibrinogen-producing cells is specific to the hepatic fibrinogen storage disease-inducible variant fibrinogen.

PubMed

Arai, Shinpei; Ogiwara, Naoko; Mukai, Saki; Takezawa, Yuka; Sugano, Mitsutoshi; Honda, Takayuki; Okumura, Nobuo

2017-06-01

Fibrinogen storage disease (FSD) is a rare disorder that is characterized by the accumulation of fibrinogen in hepatocytes and induces liver injury. Six mutations in the γC domain (γG284R, γT314P, γD316N, the deletion of γG346-Q350, γG366S, and γR375W) have been identified for FSD. Our group previously established γ375W fibrinogen-producing Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and observed aberrant large granular and fibrous forms of intracellular inclusion bodies. The aim of this study was to investigate whether fibrous intracellular inclusion bodies are specific to FSD-inducible variant fibrinogen. Thirteen expression vectors encoding the variant γ-chain were stably or transiently transfected into CHO cells expressing normal fibrinogen Aα- and Bβ-chains or HuH-7 cells, which were then immunofluorescently stained. Six CHO and HuH-7 cell lines that transiently produced FSD-inducible variant fibrinogen presented the fibrous (3.2-22.7 and 2.1-24.5%, respectively) and large granular (5.4-25.5 and 7.7-23.9%) forms of intracellular inclusion bodies. Seven CHO and HuH-7 cell lines that transiently produced FSD-non-inducible variant fibrinogen only exhibit the large granular form. These results demonstrate that transiently transfected variant fibrinogen-producing CHO cells and inclusion bodies of the fibrous form may be useful in non-invasive screening for FSD risk factors for FSD before its onset.

MicroRNA-9 suppresses the growth, migration, and invasion of malignant melanoma cells via targeting NRP1.

PubMed

Xu, Dan; Chen, Xiaofeng; He, Quanyong; Luo, Chengqun

2016-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRs) are a class of small noncoding RNAs that negatively regulate the gene expression by directly binding to the 3' untranslated region of their target mRNA, thus resulting in mRNA degradation or translational repression. miR-9 has recently been demonstrated to play a role in the development and progression of malignant melanoma (MM), but the regulatory mechanism of miR-9 in the malignant phenotypes of MM still remains largely unknown. In this study, a total of 73 pairs of MM tissues and adjacent normal tissues were collected. Real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of miR-9. MTT assay, wound healing assay, and transwell assay were conducted to determine the cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Luciferase reporter assay was used to determine the targeting relationship between miR-9 and NRP1. Our data demonstrated that miR-9 expression was significantly downregulated in MM tissues compared with that in adjacent normal tissues. The decreased miR-9 level was significantly associated with the tumor stage and metastasis of MM. We also found that the expression level of miR-9 was decreased in MM cell lines (G361, B16, A375, and HME1) compared with normal skin HACAT cells. Ectopic expression of miR-9 led to a significant decrease in the ability of proliferation, migration, and invasion in A375 cells. NRP1 was further identified as a direct target gene of miR-9, and the protein expression of NRP1 was negatively regulated by miR-9 in A375 cells. Furthermore, overexpression of NRP1 reversed the suppressive effects of miR-9 on the malignant phenotypes of A375 cells. In vivo study revealed that miR-9 overexpression decreased the tumor growth, while overexpression of NRP1 increased MM growth. In summary, our findings suggest that the miR-9/NRP1 axis may serve as a potential target for the treatment of MM.

Classification of cancer cell lines using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time‑of‑flight mass spectrometry and statistical analysis.

PubMed

Serafim, Vlad; Shah, Ajit; Puiu, Maria; Andreescu, Nicoleta; Coricovac, Dorina; Nosyrev, Alexander; Spandidos, Demetrios A; Tsatsakis, Aristides M; Dehelean, Cristina; Pinzaru, Iulia

2017-10-01

Over the past decade, matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time‑of‑flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‑TOF MS) has been established as a valuable platform for microbial identification, and it is also frequently applied in biology and clinical studies to identify new markers expressed in pathological conditions. The aim of the present study was to assess the potential of using this approach for the classification of cancer cell lines as a quantifiable method for the proteomic profiling of cellular organelles. Intact protein extracts isolated from different tumor cell lines (human and murine) were analyzed using MALDI‑TOF MS and the obtained mass lists were processed using principle component analysis (PCA) within Bruker Biotyper® software. Furthermore, reference spectra were created for each cell line and were used for classification. Based on the intact protein profiles, we were able to differentiate and classify six cancer cell lines: two murine melanoma (B16‑F0 and B164A5), one human melanoma (A375), two human breast carcinoma (MCF7 and MDA‑MB‑231) and one human liver carcinoma (HepG2). The cell lines were classified according to cancer type and the species they originated from, as well as by their metastatic potential, offering the possibility to differentiate non‑invasive from invasive cells. The obtained results pave the way for developing a broad‑based strategy for the identification and classification of cancer cells.

Odontogenic ameloblast-associated protein (ODAM) inhibits growth and migration of human melanoma cells and elicits PTEN elevation and inactivation of PI3K/AKT signaling

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Background The Odontogenic Ameloblast-associated Protein (ODAM) is expressed in a wide range of normal epithelial, and neoplastic tissues, and we have posited that ODAM serves as a novel prognostic biomarker for breast cancer and melanoma. Transfection of ODAM into breast cancer cells yields suppression of cellular growth, motility, and in vivo tumorigenicity. Herein we have extended these studies to the effects of ODAM on cultured melanoma cell lines. Methods The A375 and C8161 melanoma cell lines were stably transfected with ODAM and assayed for properties associated with tumorigenicity including cell growth, motility, and extracellular matrix adhesion. In addition, ODAM–transfected cells were assayed for signal transduction via AKT which promotes cell proliferation and survival in many neoplasms. Results ODAM expression in A375 and C8161 cells strongly inhibited cell growth and motility in vitro, increased cell adhesion to extracellular matrix, and yielded significant cytoskeletal/morphologic rearrangement. Furthermore, AKT activity was downregulated by ODAM expression while an increase was noted in expression of the PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog on chromosome 10) tumor suppressor gene, an antagonist of AKT activation. Increased PTEN in ODAM-expressing cells was associated with increases in PTEN mRNA levels and de novo protein synthesis. Silencing of PTEN expression yielded recovery of AKT activity in ODAM-expressing melanoma cells. Similar PTEN elevation and inhibition of AKT by ODAM was observed in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells while ODAM expression had no effect in PTEN-deficient BT-549 breast cancer cells. Conclusions The apparent anti-neoplastic effects of ODAM in cultured melanoma and breast cancer cells are associated with increased PTEN expression, and suppression of AKT activity. This association should serve to clarify the clinical import of ODAM expression and any role it may serve as an indicator of tumor behavior. PMID:23648148

Selective synthesis and characterization of chlorins as sensitizers for photodynamic therapy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Montforts, Franz-Peter; Kusch, Dirk; Hoper, Frank; Braun, Stefan; Gerlach, Benjamin; Brauer, Hans-Dieter; Schermann, Guido; Moser, Joerg G.

1996-04-01

Chlorin type sensitizers have ideal photophysical properties for an application in PDT. The basic chlorin framework of these sensitizers has to be modified by attachment of lipophilic and hydrophilic residues to achieve a good cell uptake and tumor enrichment. In the present study we describe the selective synthesis of amphiphilic chlorins starting from the readily accessible red blood pigment heme. The photophysical properties of the well defined synthetic chlorins are characterized by photophysical investigations. The kinetic of cell uptake, the localization in the cell and the photodynamic behavior of the amphiphilic sensitizers are demonstrated by incubation of A 375 cancer cell lines with structurally different chlorins.

SIRT1 deacetylase is overexpressed in human melanoma and its small molecule inhibition imparts anti-proliferative response via p53 activation.

PubMed

Wilking, Melissa J; Singh, Chandra; Nihal, Minakshi; Zhong, Weixiong; Ahmad, Nihal

2014-12-01

Melanoma causes more deaths than any other skin cancer, and its incidence in the US continues to rise. Current medical therapies are insufficient to control this deadly neoplasm, necessitating the development of new target-based approaches. The objective of this study was to determine the role and functional significance of the class III histone deacetylase SIRT1 in melanoma. We have found that SIRT1 is overexpressed in clinical human melanoma tissues and human melanoma cell lines (Sk-Mel-2, WM35, G361, A375, and Hs294T) compared to normal skin and normal melanocytes, respectively. In addition, treatment of melanoma cell lines A375, Hs294T, and G361 with Tenovin-1, a small molecule SIRT1 inhibitor, resulted in a significant decrease in cell growth and cell viability. Further, Tenovin-1 treatment also resulted in a marked decrease in the clonogenic survival of melanoma cells. Further experiments showed that the anti-proliferative response of Tenovin-1 was accompanied by an increase in the protein as well as activity of the tumor suppressor p53. This increase in p53 activity was substantiated by an increase in the protein level of its downstream target p21. Overall, these data suggest that small molecule inhibition of SIRT1 causes anti-proliferative effects in melanoma cells. SIRT1 appears to be acting through the activity of the tumor suppressor p53, which is not mutated in the majority of melanomas. However, future detailed studies are needed to further explore the role and mechanism of SIRT1 in melanoma development and progression and its usefulness in melanoma treatment.

Withania somnifera Root Extract Has Potent Cytotoxic Effect against Human Malignant Melanoma Cells

PubMed Central

Halder, Babli; Singh, Shruti; Thakur, Suman S.

2015-01-01

In Ayurveda, Withania somnifera is commonly known as Ashwagandha, its roots are specifically used in medicinal and clinical applications. It possesses numerous therapeutic actions which include anti-inflammatory, sedative, hypnotic and narcotic. Extracts from this plant have been reported for its anticancer properties. In this study we evaluated for the first time, the cytotoxic effect of Withania root extract on human malignant melanoma A375 cells. The crude extract of Withania was tested for cytotoxicity against A375 cells by MTT assay. Cell morphology of treated A375 cells was visualized through phase contrast as well as fluorescence microscopy. Agarose gel electrophoresis was used to check DNA fragmentation of the crude extract treated cells. Crude extract of Withania root has the potency to reduce viable cell count in dose as well as time dependent manner. Morphological change of the A375 cells was also observed in treated groups in comparison to untreated or vehicle treated control. Apoptotic body and nuclear blebbing were observed in DAPI stained treated cells under fluorescence microscope. A ladder of fragmented DNA was noticed in treated cells. Thus it might be said that the crude water extract of Withania somnifera has potent cytotoxic effect on human malignant melanoma A375 cells. PMID:26334881

NDRG2 promoted secreted miR-375 in microvesicles shed from M1 microglia, which induced neuron damage.

PubMed

Tang, Li-li; Wu, Yuan-bo; Fang, Chuan-qin; Qu, Ping; Gao, Zong-liang

2016-01-15

Microglia microvesicles (MVs) has shown to have significant biological functions under normal conditions. A diversity of miRNAs is involved in neuronal development, survival, function, and plasticity, but the exact functional role of NDRG2 and secreted miR-375 in MVs in neuron damage is poorly understood. We investigated the effect of NDRG2 and secreted miR-375 in MVs shed from M1 microglia on neuron damage. Expression of Nos2, Arg-1, miR-375, syntaxin-1A, NDRG2 and Pdk 1 were evaluated using RT-PCR or western blotting. Cell viability of N2A neuron was quantified by a MTT assay. Microglia can be polarized into different functional phenotypes. Expression of NDRG2 and Nos2 were significantly increased by LPS treatment on N9 cells, whereas treatment with IL-4 dramatically suppressed the expression of NDRG2 and remarkably elevated expression of Arg-1. Besides, MVs shed from LPS-treated N9 microglia significantly inhibited cell viability of N2A neurons and expression of syntaxin-1A, and NDRG2 interference reversed the up-regulated miR-375 in LPS-treated N9 microglia and MVs shed from LPS-treated N9 cells. Furthermore, NDRG2 could modulate miR-375 expression in N9 microglia and MVs. And miR-375 inhibitor remarkably elevated Pdk1 expression in N2A neurons. Finally, miR-375 inhibitor could reverse suppression effect of NDRG2 overexpression on cell viability of N2A neurons and expression of syntaxin-1A. Our results demonstrated that NDRG2 promoted secreted miR-375 in microvesicles shed from M1 microglia, which induced neuron damage. The suppression of NDRG2 and secreted miR-375 in MVs shed from M1 microglia may be potential targets for alleviation of neuron damage. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Formononetin promotes proliferation that involves a feedback loop of microRNA-375 and estrogen receptor alpha in estrogen receptor-positive cells.

PubMed

Chen, Jian; Zhang, Xing; Wang, Yong; Ye, Yu; Huang, Zhaoquan

2016-03-01

Formononetin is an O-methylated isoflavone that is isolated from the root of Astragalus membranaceus, and it has antitumorigenic effects. Our previous studies found that formononetin triggered growth-inhibitory and apoptotic activities in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. To further investigate the potential effect of formononetin in promoting cell proliferation in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive cells, we used in vivo and in vitro studies to elucidate the possible mechanism. ERα-positive cells (HUVEC, MCF-7) were treated with formononetin. The CCK8 assay, Hoechst 33258, and flow cytometry were used to assess cell proliferation and apoptosis. mRNA levels of ERα, Bcl-2, and miR-375 were quantified using real-time polymerase chain reaction. ERα, p-Akt, and Bcl-2 expression was determined using Western blot. Compared with the control, low formononetin concentrations (2-6 μM) stimulated ERα-positive cell proliferation (HUVEC, MCF-7). The more sensitive HUVEC cells were used to study the relevant signaling pathway. After treatment with formononetin, ERα, miR-375, p-Akt, and Bcl-2 expression was significantly upregulated. The proliferative effect of formononetin was also blocked by a miR-375 inhibitor or raloxifene pretreatment. Additionally, in the in vivo studies, uterine weight in ovariectomized mice treated with formononetin increased significantly, but the weight dramatically decreased with raloxifene or miR-375 inhibitor pretreatment before formononetin. This study demonstrated that formononetin promoted ERα-positive cell proliferation through miR-375 activation and this mechanism is possibly involving in a miR-375 and ERα feedback loop. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Antihyperglycemic drug Gymnema sylvestre also shows anticancer potentials in human melanoma A375 cells via reactive oxygen species generation and mitochondria-dependent caspase pathway.

PubMed

Chakraborty, Debrup; Ghosh, Samrat; Bishayee, Kausik; Mukherjee, Avinaba; Sikdar, Sourav; Khuda-Bukhsh, Anisur Rahman

2013-09-01

Ethanolic extract of Gymnema sylvestre (GS) leaves is used as a potent antidiabetic drug in various systems of alternative medicine, including homeopathy. The present study was aimed at examining if GS also had anticancer potentials, and if it had, to elucidate its possible mechanism of action. We initially tested possible anticancer potential of GS on A375 cells (human skin melanoma) through MTT assay and determined cytotoxicity levels in A375 and normal liver cells; we then thoroughly studied its apoptotic effects on A375 cells through protocols such as Hoechst 33258, H2DCFDA, and rhodamine 123 staining and conducted ELISA for cytochrome c, caspase 3, and PARP activity levels; we determined the mRNA level expression of cytochrome c, caspase 3, Bcl2, Bax, PARP, ICAD, and EGFR signaling genes through semiquantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and conducted Western blot analysis of caspase 3 and PARP. We also analyzed cell cycle events, determined reactive oxygen species accumulation, measured annexin V-FITC/PI and rhodamine 123 intensity by flow cytometry. Compared with both normal liver cells and drug-untreated A375, the mortality of GS-treated A375 cells increased in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, GS induced nuclear DNA fragmentation and showed an increased level of mRNA expression of apoptotic signal related genes cytochrome c, caspase 3, PARP, Bax, and reduced expression level of ICAD, EGFR, and the anti-apoptotic gene Bcl2. Overall results indicate GS to have significant anticancer effect on A375 cells apart from its reported antidiabetic effect, indicating possibility of its palliative use in patients with symptoms of both the diseases.

Silencing FLI or targeting CD13/ANPEP lead to dephosphorylation of EPHA2, a mediator of BRAF inhibitor resistance, and induce growth arrest or apoptosis in melanoma cells.

PubMed

Azimi, Alireza; Tuominen, Rainer; Costa Svedman, Fernanda; Caramuta, Stefano; Pernemalm, Maria; Frostvik Stolt, Marianne; Kanter, Lena; Kharaziha, Pedram; Lehtiö, Janne; Hertzman Johansson, Carolina; Höiom, Veronica; Hansson, Johan; Egyhazi Brage, Suzanne

2017-08-31

A majority of patients with BRAF-mutated metastatic melanoma respond to therapy with BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi), but relapses are common owing to acquired resistance. To unravel BRAFi resistance mechanisms we have performed gene expression and mass spectrometry based proteome profiling of the sensitive parental A375 BRAF V600E-mutated human melanoma cell line and of daughter cell lines with induced BRAFi resistance. Increased expression of two novel resistance candidates, aminopeptidase-N (CD13/ANPEP) and ETS transcription factor FLI1 was observed in the BRAFi-resistant daughter cell lines. In addition, increased levels of the previously reported resistance mediators, receptor tyrosine kinase ephrine receptor A2 (EPHA2) and the hepatocyte growth factor receptor MET were also identified. The expression of these proteins was assessed in matched tumor samples from melanoma patients obtained before BRAFi and after disease progression. MET was overexpressed in all progression samples while the expression of the other candidates varied between the individual patients. Targeting CD13/ANPEP by a blocking antibody induced apoptosis in both parental A375- and BRAFi-resistant daughter cells as well as in melanoma cells with intrinsic BRAFi resistance and led to dephosphorylation of EPHA2 on S897, previously demonstrated to cause inhibition of the migratory capacity. AKT and RSK, both reported to induce EPHA2 S897 phosphorylation, were also dephosphorylated after inhibition of CD13/ANPEP. FLI1 silencing also caused decreases in EPHA2 S897 phosphorylation and in total MET protein expression. In addition, silencing of FLI1 sensitized the resistant cells to BRAFi. Furthermore, we show that BRAFi in combination with the multi kinase inhibitor dasatinib can abrogate BRAFi resistance and decrease both EPHA2 S897 phosphorylation and total FLI1 protein expression. This is the first report presenting CD13/ANPEP and FLI1 as important mediators of resistance to BRAF inhibition with potential as drug targets in BRAFi refractory melanoma.

Induction of oxidative stress, DNA damage, and apoptosis in a malignant human skin melanoma cell line after exposure to zinc oxide nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Alarifi, Saud; Ali, Daoud; Alkahtani, Saad; Verma, Ankit; Ahamed, Maqusood; Ahmed, Mukhtar; Alhadlaq, Hisham A

2013-01-01

The widespread use of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles worldwide exposes humans to their adverse effects, so it is important to understand their biological effects and any associated risks. This study was designed to investigate the cytotoxicity, oxidative stress, and apoptosis caused by ZnO nanoparticles in human skin melanoma (A375) cells. MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazoliumbromide] and lactate dehydrogenase-based cell viability assays showed a significant decrease in cell viability after exposure to ZnO nanoparticles, and phase contrast images revealed that cells treated with these nanoparticles had a lower density and a rounded morphology. ZnO nanoparticles were also found to induce oxidative stress, evidenced by generation of reactive oxygen species and depletion of the antioxidant, glutathione. Induction of apoptosis was confirmed by chromosomal condensation assay and caspase-3 activation. Further, more DNA damage was observed in cells exposed to the highest concentration of ZnO nanoparticles. These results demonstrate that ZnO nanoparticles have genotoxic potential in A375 cells, which may be mediated via oxidative stress. Our short-term exposure study showing induction of a genotoxic and apoptotic response to ZnO nanoparticles needs further investigation to determine whether there may be consequences of long-term exposure to ZnO nanoparticles. PMID:23493450

The combination of vemurafenib and procaspase-3 activation is synergistic in mutant BRAF melanomas

PubMed Central

Peh, Jessie; Fan, Timothy M.; Wycislo, Kathryn L.; Roth, Howard S.; Hergenrother, Paul J.

2016-01-01

The development of vemurafenib resistance limits the long-term efficacy of this drug for treatment of metastatic melanomas with the V600EBRAF mutation. Inhibition of downstream MAPK signaling with vemurafenib induces apoptotic cell death mediated by caspase-3, suggesting that addition of a procaspase-3 activator could enhance anticancer effects. Here we show that the combination of PAC-1, a procaspase-activating compound, and vemurafenib is highly synergistic in enhancing caspase-3 activity and apoptotic cell death in melanoma cell lines harboring the V600EBRAF mutation. In vivo, the combination displays a favorable safety profile in mice, and exerts significant antitumor effects. We further demonstrate that addition of PAC-1 to the clinically useful combination of vemurafenib and a MEK inhibitor, trametinib, starkly enhances the caspase-3 activity and proapoptotic effect of the combination. Moreover, addition of low concentration PAC-1 also delays the regrowth of cells following treatment with vemurafenib. Finally, PAC-1 remains potent against vemurafenib-resistant A375VR cells in cell culture and synergizes with vemurafenib to exert antitumor effects on A375VR cell growth in vivo. Collectively, our data suggest that inhibition of MAPK signaling combined with concurrent procaspase-3 activation is an effective strategy to enhance the antitumor activity of vemurafenib and mitigate the development of resistance. PMID:27297867

The CDK4/6 inhibitor LY2835219 overcomes vemurafenib resistance resulting from MAPK reactivation and cyclin D1 upregulation.

PubMed

Yadav, Vipin; Burke, Teresa F; Huber, Lysiane; Van Horn, Robert D; Zhang, Youyan; Buchanan, Sean G; Chan, Edward M; Starling, James J; Beckmann, Richard P; Peng, Sheng-Bin

2014-10-01

B-RAF selective inhibitors, including vemurafenib, were recently developed as effective therapies for melanoma patients with B-RAF V600E mutation. However, most patients treated with vemurafenib eventually develop resistance largely due to reactivation of MAPK signaling. Inhibitors of MAPK signaling, including MEK1/2 inhibitor trametinib, failed to show significant clinical benefit in patients with acquired resistance to vemurafenib. Here, we describe that cell lines with acquired resistance to vemurafenib show reactivation of MAPK signaling and upregulation of cyclin D1 and are sensitive to inhibition of LY2835219, a selective inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) 4/6. LY2835219 was demonstrated to inhibit growth of melanoma A375 tumor xenografts and delay tumor recurrence in combination with vemurafenib. Furthermore, we developed an in vivo vemurafenib-resistant model by continuous administration of vemurafenib in A375 xenografts. Consistently, we found that MAPK is reactivated and cyclin D1 is elevated in vemurafenib-resistant tumors, as well as in the resistant cell lines derived from these tumors. Importantly, LY2835219 exhibited tumor growth regression in a vemurafenib-resistant model. Mechanistic analysis revealed that LY2835219 induced apoptotic cell death in a concentration-dependent manner in vemurafenib-resistant cells whereas it primarily mediated cell-cycle G1 arrest in the parental cells. Similarly, RNAi-mediated knockdown of cyclin D1 induced significantly higher rate of apoptosis in the resistant cells than in parental cells, suggesting that elevated cyclin D1 activity is important for the survival of vemurafenib-resistant cells. Altogether, we propose that targeting cyclin D1-CDK4/6 signaling by LY2835219 is an effective strategy to overcome MAPK-mediated resistance to B-RAF inhibitors in B-RAF V600E melanoma. ©2014 American Association for Cancer Research.

IgG1-iS18 impedes the adhesive and invasive potential of early and late stage malignant melanoma cells.

PubMed

Munien, Carmelle; Rebelo, Thalia M; Ferreira, Eloise; Weiss, Stefan F T

2017-02-15

The 37kDa/67kDa laminin receptor (LRP/LR) is a non-integrin laminin receptor which is overexpressed in tumorigenic cells and supports progression of cancer via promoting metastasis, angiogenesis and telomerase activity and impediment of apoptosis. The present study investigates the role of LRP/LR on the metastatic potential of early (A375) and late (A375SM) stage malignant melanoma cells. Flow cytometry revealed that both early and late stage malignant melanoma cells display high levels of LRP/LR on their cell surface. Flow cytometry and western blot analysis showed that late stage malignant melanoma cells display significantly higher total and cell surface LRP/LR levels in comparison to early stage malignant melanoma cells and the poorly invasive breast cancer (MCF-7) control cell line. Targeting LRP/LR using the LRP/LR specific antibody IgG1-iS18 resulted in a significant reduction of the adhesive potential to laminin-1 and the invasive potential through the 'ECM-simulating' Matrigel™ of both early and late stage malignant melanoma cells. Furthermore, Pearson's correlation coefficient confirmed that increased LRP levels correlate with the increased invasive and adhesive potential in early and late stage melanoma cells. Thus, blocking LRP/LR using the IgG1-iS18 antibody may therefore be a promising therapeutic strategy for early and late stage malignant melanoma treatment. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A Novel Plant Sesquiterpene Lactone Derivative, DETD-35, Suppresses BRAFV600E Mutant Melanoma Growth and Overcomes Acquired Vemurafenib Resistance in Mice.

PubMed

Feng, Jia-Hua; Nakagawa-Goto, Kyoko; Lee, Kuo-Hsiung; Shyur, Lie-Fen

2016-06-01

Acquired resistance to vemurafenib develops through reactivation of RAF/MEK/ERK signaling or bypass mechanisms. Recent combination therapies such as a MEK inhibitor combined with vemurafenib show improvement in major clinical end points, but the percentage of patients with adverse toxic events is higher than with vemurafenib monotherapy and most patients ultimately relapse. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new antimelanoma drugs and/or adjuvant agents for vemurafenib therapy. In this study, we created a novel semiorganically modified derivative, DETD-35, from deoxyelephantopin (DET), a plant sesquiterpene lactone demonstrated as an anti-inflammatory and anti-mammary tumor agent. Our results show that DETD-35 inhibited proliferation of a panel of melanoma cell lines, including acquired vemurafenib resistance A375 cells (A375-R) established in this study, with superior activities to DET and no cytotoxicity to normal melanocytes. DETD-35 suppressed tumor growth and reduced tumor mass as effectively as vemurafenib in A375 xenograft study. Furthermore, DETD-35 also reduced tumor growth in both acquired (A375-R) and intrinsic (A2058) vemurafenib resistance xenograft models, where vemurafenib showed no antitumor activity. Notably, the combination of DETD-35 and vemurafenib exhibited the most significant effects in both in vitro and in vivo xenograft studies due to synergism of the compound and the drug. Mechanistic studies suggested that DETD-35 overcame acquired vemurafenib resistance at least in part through deregulating MEK-ERK, Akt, and STAT3 signaling pathways and promoting apoptosis of cancer cells. Overall, our results suggest that DETD-35 may be useful as a therapeutic or adjuvant agent against BRAF(V600E) mutant and acquired vemurafenib resistance melanoma. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(6); 1163-76. ©2016 AACR. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Cudraflavone C Induces Apoptosis of A375.S2 Melanoma Cells through Mitochondrial ROS Production and MAPK Activation.

PubMed

Lee, Chiang-Wen; Yen, Feng-Lin; Ko, Horng-Huey; Li, Shu-Yu; Chiang, Yao-Chang; Lee, Ming-Hsueh; Tsai, Ming-Horng; Hsu, Lee-Fen

2017-07-13

Melanoma is the most malignant form of skin cancer and is associated with a very poor prognosis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the apoptotic effects of cudraflavone C on A375.S2 melanoma cells and to determine the underlying mechanisms involved in apoptosis. Cell viability was determined using the MTT and real-time cytotoxicity assays. Flow cytometric evaluation of apoptosis was performed after staining the cells with Annexin V-FITC and propidium iodide. The mitochondrial membrane potential was evaluated using the JC-1 assay. Cellular ROS production was measured using the CellROX assay, while mitochondrial ROS production was evaluated using the MitoSOX assay. It was observed that cudraflavone C inhibited growth in A375.S2 melanoma cells, and promoted apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway mediated by increased mitochondrial ROS production. In addition, cudraflavone C induced phosphorylation of MAPKs (p38, ERK, and JNK) and up-regulated the expression of apoptotic proteins (Puma, Bax, Bad, Bid, Apaf-1, cytochrome C, caspase-9, and caspase-3/7) in A375.S2 cells. Pretreatment of A375.S2 cells with MitoTEMPOL (a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant) attenuated the phosphorylation of MAPKs, expression of apoptotic proteins, and the overall progression of apoptosis. In summary, cudraflavone C induced apoptosis in A375.S2 melanoma cells by increasing mitochondrial ROS production; thus, activating p38, ERK, and JNK; and increasing the expression of apoptotic proteins. Therefore, cudraflavone C may be regarded as a potential form of treatment for malignant melanoma.

Norcantharidin Induces Human Melanoma A375-S2 Cell Apoptosis through Mitochondrial and Caspase Pathways

PubMed Central

An, Wei-wei; Wang, Min-wei; Tashiro, Shin-ichi; Onodera, Satoshi

2004-01-01

Norcantharidin (NCTD) is the demethylated form of cantharidin, which is the active substance of mylabris. To examine the pathway of NCTD-induced A375-S2 cell death, 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-dipheyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, photomicroscopical observation, DNA agarose gel electrophoresis, caspase activity assay and Western blot analysis were carried out. A375-S2 cells treated with NCTD exhibited several typical characteristics of apoptosis. The inhibitory effect of NCTD on human melanoma, A375-S2 cells, was partially reversed by the inhibitors of pan-caspase, caspase-3 and caspase-9. The activities of caspase-3 and -9 were significantly increased after treatment with NCTD at different time. The expression of inhibitor of caspase-activated DNase was decreased in a time-dependent manner, simultaneously, the ratio of Bcl-2/Bax or Bcl-xL/Bax was decreased and the expression ratio of proteins could be reversed by caspase-3 inhibitor. The expression of cytochrome c in cytosol was increased after NCTD treatment and caspase-3 inhibitor had no significant effect on the up-regulation of cytochrom c. These results suggest that NCTD induced A375-S2 cell apoptosis and the activation of caspase and mitochondrial pathway were involved in the process of NCTD-induced A375-S2 cell apoptosis. PMID:15308848

Nanoliposomes for encapsulation and delivery of the potential antitumoral methyl 6-methoxy-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1 H-indole-2-carboxylate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abreu, Ana S.; Castanheira, Elisabete Ms; Queiroz, Maria-João Rp; Ferreira, Paula Mt; Vale-Silva, Luís A.; Pinto, Eugénia

2011-08-01

A potential antitumoral fluorescent indole derivative, methyl 6-methoxy-3-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1 H-indole-2-carboxylate, was evaluated for the in vitro cell growth inhibition on three human tumor cell lines, MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma), A375-C5 (melanoma), and NCI-H460 (non-small cell lung cancer), after a continuous exposure of 48 h, exhibiting very low GI50 values for all the cell lines tested (0.25 to 0.33 μM). This compound was encapsulated in different nanosized liposome formulations, containing egg lecithin (Egg-PC), dipalmitoyl phosphatidylcholine (DPPC), dipalmitoyl phosphatidylglycerol (DPPG), DSPC, cholesterol, dihexadecyl phosphate, and DSPE-PEG. Dynamic light scattering measurements showed that nanoliposomes with the encapsulated compound are generally monodisperse and with hydrodynamic diameters lower than 120 nm, good stability and zeta potential values lower than -18 mV. Dialysis experiments allowed to monitor compound diffusion through the lipid membrane, from DPPC/DPPG donor liposomes to NBD-labelled lipid/DPPC/DPPG acceptor liposomes.

Outcome of patients with relapsed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma who fail second-line salvage regimens in the International CORAL study.

PubMed

Van Den Neste, E; Schmitz, N; Mounier, N; Gill, D; Linch, D; Trneny, M; Milpied, N; Radford, J; Ketterer, N; Shpilberg, O; Dührsen, U; Ma, D; Brière, J; Thieblemont, C; Salles, G; Moskowitz, C H; Glass, B; Gisselbrecht, C

2016-01-01

Salvage chemotherapy followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard second-line treatment for relapsed and refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). However, the strategy is less clear in patients who require third-line treatment. Updated outcomes of 203 patients who could not proceed to scheduled ASCT in the Collaborative Trial in Relapsed Aggressive Lymphoma (CORAL) are herein reviewed. In the intent-to-treat analysis, overall response rate to third-line chemotherapy was 39%, with 27% CR or CR unconfirmed, and 12% PR. Among the 203 patients, 64 (31.5%) were eventually transplanted (ASCT 56, allogeneic SCT 8). Median overall survival (OS) of the entire population was 4.4 months. OS was significantly improved in patients with lower tertiary International Prognostic Index (IPI), patients responding to third-line treatment and patients transplanted with a 1-year OS of 41.6% compared with 16.3% for the not transplanted (P<0.0001). In multivariate analysis, IPI at relapse (hazard ratio (HR) 2.409) and transplantation (HR 0.375) independently predicted OS. Third-line salvage chemotherapy can lead to response followed by transplantation and long-term survival in DLBCL patients. However, improvement of salvage efficacy is an urgent need with new drugs.

MicroRNA-375 Is Induced in Cisplatin Nephrotoxicity to Repress Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor 1-β*

PubMed Central

Hao, Jielu; Lou, Qiang; Wei, Qingqing; Mei, Shuqin; Li, Lin; Wu, Guangyu; Mi, Qing-Sheng; Mei, Changlin; Dong, Zheng

2017-01-01

Nephrotoxicity is a major adverse effect of cisplatin-mediated chemotherapy in cancer patients. The pathogenesis of cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity remains largely unclear, making it difficult to design effective renoprotective approaches. Here, we have examined the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. We show that cisplatin nephrotoxicity was not affected by overall depletion of both beneficial and detrimental miRNAs from kidney proximal tubular cells in mice in which the miRNA-generating enzyme Dicer had been conditionally knocked out. To identify miRNAs involved in cisplatin nephrotoxicity, we used microarray analysis to profile miRNA expression and identified 47 up-regulated microRNAs and 20 down-regulated microRNAs in kidney cortical tissues. One up-regulated miRNA was miR-375, whose expression was also induced in cisplatin-treated renal tubular cells. Interestingly, inhibition of miR-375 decreased cisplatin-induced apoptosis, suggesting that miR-375 is a cell-damaging or pro-apoptotic agent. Blockade of P53 or NF-κB attenuated cisplatin-induced miR-375 expression, supporting a role of P53 and NF-κB in miR-375 induction. We also identified hepatocyte nuclear factor 1 homeobox B (HNF-1β) as a key downstream target of miR-375. Of note, we further demonstrated that HNF-1β protected renal cells against cisplatin-induced apoptosis. Together, these results suggest that upon cisplatin exposure, P53 and NF-κB collaboratively induce miR-375 expression, which, in turn, represses HNF-1β activity, resulting in renal tubular cell apoptosis and nephrotoxicity. PMID:28119452

Chemical composition and biological activity of the essential oil from Helichrysum microphyllum Cambess. ssp. tyrrhenicum Bacch., Brullo e Giusso growing in La Maddalena Archipelago, Sardinia.

PubMed

Ornano, Luigi; Venditti, Alessandro; Sanna, Cinzia; Ballero, Mauro; Maggi, Filippo; Lupidi, Giulio; Bramucci, Massimo; Quassinti, Luana; Bianco, Armandodoriano

2015-01-01

Helichrysum microphyllum Cambess. subsp. tyrrhenicum Bacch., Brullo e Giusso (Asteraceae), previously known as Helichrysum italicum ssp. microphyllum (Willd.) Nyman, is one of the many endemic species growing in Sardinia, Corsica and Balearic Islands. In the present work the composition of the essential oil obtained from a population of H. microphyllum ssp. thyrrenicum growing in a littoral location of La Maddalena Archipelago was investigated by GC-FID and CG-MS. The major compounds of the oil were the monoterpene ester neryl acetate (18.2%), the oxygenated sesquiterpene 5-eudesmen-11-ol (rosifoliol, 11.3%), the sequiterpene hydrocarbons δ-cadinene (8.4%) and γ-cadinene (6.7%), showing a peculiar composition in comparison with other Sardinian populations. The oil was tested for cytotoxicity on three human tumor cell lines (MDA-MB 231, HCT116 and A375) by MTT assay showing a strong inhibitory activity on human malignant melanoma cells A375 (IC50 of 16 µg/ml). In addition the oil was assessed for antioxidant activity by DPPH and ABTS assay.

MiR-375 inhibits the hepatocyte growth factor-elicited migration of mesenchymal stem cells by downregulating Akt signaling.

PubMed

He, Lihong; Wang, Xianyao; Kang, Naixin; Xu, Jianwei; Dai, Nan; Xu, Xiaojing; Zhang, Huanxiang

2018-04-01

The migration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is critical for their use in cell-based therapies. Accumulating evidence suggests that microRNAs are important regulators of MSC migration. Here, we report that the expression of miR-375 was downregulated in MSCs treated with hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), which strongly stimulates the migration of these cells. Overexpression of miR-375 decreased the transfilter migration and the migration velocity of MSCs triggered by HGF. In our efforts to determine the mechanism by which miR-375 affects MSC migration, we found that miR-375 significantly inhibited the activation of Akt by downregulating its phosphorylation at T308 and S473, but had no effect on the activity of mitogen-activated protein kinases. Further, we showed that 3'phosphoinositide-dependent protein kinase-1 (PDK1), an upstream kinase necessary for full activation of Akt, was negatively regulated by miR-375 at the protein level. Moreover, miR-375 suppressed the phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and paxillin, two important regulators of focal adhesion (FA) assembly and turnover, and decreased the number of FAs at cell periphery. Taken together, our results demonstrate that miR-375 inhibits HGF-elicited migration of MSCs through downregulating the expression of PDK1 and suppressing the activation of Akt, as well as influencing the tyrosine phosphorylation of FAK and paxillin and FA periphery distribution.

Dihydroxyacetone induces G2/M arrest and apoptotic cell death in A375P melanoma cells.

PubMed

Smith, Kelly R; Granberry, Molley; Tan, Marcus C B; Daniel, Casey L; Gassman, Natalie R

2018-03-01

The active ingredient in sunless tanning products (STPs) is a simple sugar, dihydroxyacetone (DHA). Several studies have demonstrated that DHA is absorbed within the viable layers of skin and not fully contained within the stratum corneum. Additionally, spray tanning and other aerosolized application methods have increased the risk of internal exposure through mucous membranes and inhalation. Beyond its presence in STPs, DHA also occurs as an endogenous by-product of fructose metabolism, and an excess of DHA in cells can induce advanced glycation end (AGE) products and oxidative stress. Therefore, exogenous and endogenous exposures to DHA may be harmful to cells, and it has already been demonstrated that exogenous exposure to DHA is cytotoxic in immortalized keratinocytes. Still, little is known about the exogenous DHA exposure effects on other skin components. In this study, we explore the effects of exogenous DHA exposure in a human melanoma cell line, A375P. Melanoma cells were sensitive to DHA and displayed a transient burst of reactive oxygen species within an hour of exposure. Cell cycle arrest at G2/M was observed within 24 h of exposure, and apoptosis, monitored by the cleavage of PARP-1 and Caspase-3, was detected within 72 h of exposure to DHA. Together, these demonstrate that exogenous exposure to DHA has cytotoxic effects in our selected cell model and indicates the need to further investigate the exogenous exposure effects of DHA in other relevant exposure models. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Combination of Vemurafenib and Procaspase-3 Activation Is Synergistic in Mutant BRAF Melanomas.

PubMed

Peh, Jessie; Fan, Timothy M; Wycislo, Kathryn L; Roth, Howard S; Hergenrother, Paul J

2016-08-01

The development of vemurafenib resistance limits the long-term efficacy of this drug for treatment of metastatic melanomas with the (V600E)BRAF mutation. Inhibition of downstream MAPK signaling with vemurafenib induces apoptotic cell death mediated by caspase-3, suggesting that addition of a procaspase-3 activator could enhance anticancer effects. Here, we show that the combination of PAC-1, a procaspase-activating compound, and vemurafenib is highly synergistic in enhancing caspase-3 activity and apoptotic cell death in melanoma cell lines harboring the (V600E)BRAF mutation. In vivo, the combination displays a favorable safety profile in mice and exerts significant antitumor effects. We further demonstrate that addition of PAC-1 to the clinically useful combination of vemurafenib and a MEK inhibitor, trametinib, starkly enhances the caspase-3 activity and proapoptotic effect of the combination. Moreover, addition of low concentration PAC-1 also delays the regrowth of cells following treatment with vemurafenib. Finally, PAC-1 remains potent against vemurafenib-resistant A375VR cells in cell culture and synergizes with vemurafenib to exert antitumor effects on A375VR cell growth in vivo Collectively, our data suggest that inhibition of MAPK signaling combined with concurrent procaspase-3 activation is an effective strategy to enhance the antitumor activity of vemurafenib and mitigate the development of resistance. Mol Cancer Ther; 15(8); 1859-69. ©2016 AACR. ©2016 American Association for Cancer Research.

Emblica officinalis extract downregulates pro-angiogenic molecules via upregulation of cellular and exosomal miR-375 in human ovarian cancer cells

PubMed Central

De, Alok; Powers, Benjamin; De, Archana; Zhou, Jianping; Sharma, Siddarth; Van Veldhuizen, Peter; Bansal, Ajay; Sharma, Ramratan; Sharma, Mukut

2016-01-01

Ovarian cancer (OC) is highly resistant to current treatment strategies based on a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. We have recently demonstrated the anti-neoplastic effect of Amla extract (Emblica officinalis, AE) on OC cells in vitro and in vivo. We hypothesized that AE attenuates growth of OC through microRNA (miR)-regulated mechanism(s). The inhibitory effect of AE on proliferation, migration and invasiveness (P≤0.001) of SKOV3 cells and >90% attenuation of tumor growth in a xenograft mouse model suggested multiple targets. RT-qPCR analysis of microRNAs associated with OC showed a >2,000-fold increase in the expression of miR-375 in AE-treated SKOV3 cells that was blocked by an exogenous miR-375 inhibitor (P≤0.001). AE also decreased the gene and protein expression of IGF1R, a target of miR-375 (P≤0.001), and SNAIL1 (P≤0.002), an EMT-associated transcription factor that represses E-cadherin expression (P≤0.003). AE increased E-cadherin expression (P≤0.001). Treatment of SKOV3 cells with AE resulted in increased miR-375 in exosomes in the medium (P≤0.01). Finally, AE significantly decreased the expression of IGF1R and SNAIL1 proteins during attenuation of SKOV3-derived xenograft tumor. Together, these results show that AE modulates cancer cells and the tumor microenvironment via activation of miR-375 and by targeting IGF1R and SNAIL1 in OC cells. PMID:27129171

Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of 3-(Substituted Aroyl)-4-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-1H-pyrrole Derivatives.

PubMed

Zhan, Xiao-Ping; Lan, Lan; Wang, Shuai; Zhao, Kai; Xin, Yu-Xuan; Qi, Qi; Wang, Yao-Lin; Mao, Zhen-Min

2017-02-01

A series of 3-(substituted aroyl)-4-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-1H-pyrrole derivatives were synthesized and determined for their anticancer activity against eleven cancer cell lines and two normal tissue cell lines using MTT assay. Among the synthesized compounds, compound 3f was the most potent compound against A375, CT-26, HeLa, MGC80-3, NCI-H460 and SGC-7901 cells (IC 50  = 8.2 - 31.7 μm); 3g, 3n and 3a were the most potent compounds against CHO (IC 50  = 8.2 μm), HCT-15 (IC 50  = 21 μm) and MCF-7 cells (IC 50  = 18.7 μm), respectively. Importantly, all the target compounds showed no cytotoxicity towards the normal tissue cell (IC 50  > 100 μm). Thus, these compounds with the potent anticancer activity and low toxicity have potential for the development of new anticancer chemotherapy agents. © 2017 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.

Preclinical evaluation of melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1-R) specific 68Ga- and 44Sc-labeled DOTA-NAPamide in melanoma imaging.

PubMed

Nagy, Gábor; Dénes, Noémi; Kis, Adrienn; Szabó, Judit P; Berényi, Ervin; Garai, Ildikó; Bai, Péter; Hajdu, István; Szikra, Dezső; Trencsényi, György

2017-08-30

Alpha melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) enhances melanogenesis in melanoma malignum by binding to melanocortin-1 receptors (MC1-R). Earlier studies demonstrated that alpha-MSH analog NAPamide molecule specifically binds to MC1-R receptor. Radiolabeled NAPamide is a promising radiotracer for the non-invasive detection of melanin producing melanoma tumors by Positron Emission Tomography (PET). In this present study the MC1-R selectivity of the newly developed Sc-44-labeled DOTA-NAPamide was investigated in vitro and in vivo using melanoma tumors. DOTA-NAPamide was labeled with Ga-68 and Sc-44 radionuclides. The MC1-R specificity of Ga-68- and Sc-44-labeled DOTA-NAPamide was investigated in vitro and in vivo using MC1-R positive (B16-F10) and negative (A375) melanoma cell lines. For in vivo imaging studies B16-F10 and A375 tumor-bearing mice were injected with 44 Sc/ 68 Ga-DOTA-NAPamide (in blocking studies with α-MSH) and whole body PET/MRI scans were acquired. Radiotracer uptake was expressed in terms of standardized uptake values (SUVs). 44 Sc/ 68 Ga-labeled DOTA-NAPamide were produced with high specific activity (approx. 19 GBq/μmol) and with excellent radiochemical purity (99%<). MC1-R positive B16-F10 cells showed significantly (p≤0.01) higher in vitro radiotracer accumulation than that of receptor negative A375 melanoma cells. In animal experiments, also significantly (p≤0.01) higher Ga-68-DOTA-NAPamide (SUVmean: 0.38±0.02), and Sc-44-DOTA-NAPamide (SUVmean: 0.52±0.13) uptake was observed in subcutaneously growing B16-F10 tumors, than in receptor negative A375 tumors, where the SUVmean values of Ga-68-DOTA-NAPamide and Sc-44-DOTA-NAPamide were 0.04±0.01 and 0.07±0.01, respectively. Tumor-to-muscle (T/M SUVmean) ratios were approximately 15-fold higher in B16-F10 tumor-bearing mice, than that of A375 tumors, and this difference was also significant (p≤0.01) using both radiotracers after 60 min incubation time. Our newly synthesized 44 Sc-labeled DOTA-NAPamide probe showed excellent binding properties to melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1-R) positive melanoma cell and tumors. Due to its high specificity and sensitivity 44 Sc-DOTA-NAPamide is a promising radiotracer in molecular imaging of malignant melanoma. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Human Xenografts Are Not Rejected in a Naturally Occurring Immunodeficient Porcine Line: A Human Tumor Model in Pigs

PubMed Central

Basel, Matthew T.; Balivada, Sivasai; Beck, Amanda P.; Kerrigan, Maureen A.; Pyle, Marla M.; Dekkers, Jack C.M.; Wyatt, Carol R.; Rowland, Robert R.R.; Anderson, David E.; Bossmann, Stefan H.

2012-01-01

Abstract Animal models for cancer therapy are invaluable for preclinical testing of potential cancer treatments; however, therapies tested in such models often fail to translate into clinical settings. Therefore, a better preclinical model for cancer treatment testing is needed. Here we demonstrate that an immunodeficient line of pigs can host and support the growth of xenografted human tumors and has the potential to be an effective animal model for cancer therapy. Wild-type and immunodeficient pigs were injected subcutaneously in the left ear with human melanoma cells (A375SM cells) and in the right ear with human pancreatic carcinoma cells (PANC-1). All immunodeficient pigs developed tumors that were verified by histology and immunohistochemistry. Nonaffected littermates did not develop tumors. Immunodeficient pigs, which do not reject xenografted human tumors, have the potential to become an extremely useful animal model for cancer therapy because of their similarity in size, anatomy, and physiology to humans. PMID:23514746

Low concentration of formononetin promotes proliferation of estrogen receptor-positive cells through an ERα-miR-375-PTEN-ERK1/2-bcl-2 pathway.

PubMed

Guo, Yan-Hong; Tang, Feng-Yan; Wang, Yong; Huang, Wen-Jun; Tian, Jing; Lu, Hui-Ling; Xin, Min; Chen, Jian

2017-11-21

A low dose of formononetin accelerates the proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells in vitro ; however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism of formononetin in CNE2 cell proliferation. CNE2 cells were treated with 0 to 1 μM formononetin. To inhibit mitogen activated protein kinase / extracellular regulate kinase (MAPK/ERK) kinase (MEK) and microRNA (miR)-375, cells were pretreated with either PD98059 or a miR-375 inhibitor, respectively, followed by co-treatment with formononetin (0.3 μM) plus an inhibitor. Female rats were ovariectomized (OVX), and some OVX rats received formononetin or estrogen (E 2 ) injections. Sham operated animals were used as controls. Compared to control, 0.3 μM formononetin accelerated proliferation and decreased late apoptosis of CNE2 cells. However, formononetin-induced pro-growth and anti-apoptosis activity was abolished by PD98059 and the miR-375 inhibitor. In addition, 0.1 and 0.3 μM formononetin significantly increased estrogen receptor-α (ERα) and bcl-2, but decreased protein-phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) protein expression, all of which was reversed by the miR-375 inhibitor. Additionally, formononetin treatment resulted in a transient upregulation of phosphorylated (p)-ERK1/2. In vivo studies indicated that formononetin significantly increased endometrium thickness and down-regulated ERα expression in OVX rats. Taken together, our study demonstrates that a low concentration of formononetin can promote growth of CNE2 cells and uterine tissues, possibly through regulating the ERα-miR-375-PTEN-ERK1/2-bcl-2 signaling pathway.

Low concentration of formononetin promotes proliferation of estrogen receptor-positive cells through an ERα-miR-375-PTEN-ERK1/2-bcl-2 pathway

PubMed Central

Guo, Yan-Hong; Tang, Feng-Yan; Wang, Yong; Huang, Wen-Jun; Tian, Jing; Lu, Hui-Ling; Xin, Min; Chen, Jian

2017-01-01

A low dose of formononetin accelerates the proliferation of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells in vitro; however, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism of formononetin in CNE2 cell proliferation. CNE2 cells were treated with 0 to 1 μM formononetin. To inhibit mitogen activated protein kinase / extracellular regulate kinase (MAPK/ERK) kinase (MEK) and microRNA (miR)-375, cells were pretreated with either PD98059 or a miR-375 inhibitor, respectively, followed by co-treatment with formononetin (0.3 μM) plus an inhibitor. Female rats were ovariectomized (OVX), and some OVX rats received formononetin or estrogen (E2) injections. Sham operated animals were used as controls. Compared to control, 0.3 μM formononetin accelerated proliferation and decreased late apoptosis of CNE2 cells. However, formononetin-induced pro-growth and anti-apoptosis activity was abolished by PD98059 and the miR-375 inhibitor. In addition, 0.1 and 0.3 μM formononetin significantly increased estrogen receptor-α (ERα) and bcl-2, but decreased protein-phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) protein expression, all of which was reversed by the miR-375 inhibitor. Additionally, formononetin treatment resulted in a transient upregulation of phosphorylated (p)-ERK1/2. In vivo studies indicated that formononetin significantly increased endometrium thickness and down-regulated ERα expression in OVX rats. Taken together, our study demonstrates that a low concentration of formononetin can promote growth of CNE2 cells and uterine tissues, possibly through regulating the ERα-miR-375-PTEN-ERK1/2-bcl-2 signaling pathway. PMID:29245959

Tumor cell differentiation by label-free microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneckenburger, Herbert; Weber, Petra; Wagner, Michael

2013-05-01

Autofluorescence and Raman measurements of U251-MG glioblastoma cells prior and subsequent to activation of tumor suppressor genes are compared. While phase contrast images and fluorescence intensity patterns of the tumor (control) cells and the less malignant cells are similar, differences can be deduced from fluorescence spectra and nanosecond decay times. In particular, upon excitation around 375nm, the fluorescence ratio of the protein bound and the free coenzyme NADH depends on the state of malignancy and reflects different cytoplasmic (including lysosomal) and mitochondrial contributions. Slight differences are also observed in the Raman spectra of these cell lines, mainly originating from small granules (lysosomes) surrounding the cell nucleus. While larger numbers of fluorescence and Raman spectra are evaluated by multivariate statistical methods, additional information is obtained from spectral images and fluorescence lifetime images (FLIM).

Pan-RAF and MEK vertical inhibition enhances therapeutic response in non-V600 BRAF mutant cells.

PubMed

Molnár, Eszter; Rittler, Dominika; Baranyi, Marcell; Grusch, Michael; Berger, Walter; Döme, Balázs; Tóvári, József; Aigner, Clemens; Tímár, József; Garay, Tamás; Hegedűs, Balázs

2018-05-08

Currently, there are no available targeted therapy options for non-V600 BRAF mutated tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of RAF and MEK concurrent inhibition on tumor growth, migration, signaling and apoptosis induction in preclinical models of non-V600 BRAF mutant tumor cell lines. Six BRAF mutated human tumor cell lines CRL5885 (G466 V), WM3629 (D594G), WM3670 (G469E), MDAMB231 (G464 V), CRL5922 (L597 V) and A375 (V600E as control) were investigated. Pan-RAF inhibitor (sorafenib or AZ628) and MEK inhibitor (selumetinib) or their combination were used in in vitro viability, video microscopy, immunoblot, cell cycle and TUNEL assays. The in vivo effects of the drugs were assessed in an orthotopic NSG mouse breast cancer model. All cell lines showed a significant growth inhibition with synergism in the sorafenib/AZ628 and selumetinib combination. Combination treatment resulted in higher Erk1/2 inhibition and in increased induction of apoptosis when compared to single agent treatments. However, single selumetinib treatment could cause adverse therapeutic effects, like increased cell migration in certain cells, selumetinib and sorafenib combination treatment lowered migratory capacity in all the cell lines. Importantly, combination resulted in significantly increased tumor growth inhibition in orthotropic xenografts of MDAMB231 cells when compared to sorafenib - but not to selumetinib - treatment. Our data suggests that combined blocking of RAF and MEK may achieve increased therapeutic response in non-V600 BRAF mutant tumors.

Influence of the Envelope gp120 Phe 43 Cavity on HIV-1 Sensitivity to Antibody-Dependent Cell-Mediated Cytotoxicity Responses

PubMed Central

Prévost, Jérémie; Zoubchenok, Daria; Richard, Jonathan; Veillette, Maxime; Pacheco, Beatriz; Coutu, Mathieu; Brassard, Nathalie; Parsons, Matthew S.; Ruxrungtham, Kiat; Bunupuradah, Torsak; Tovanabutra, Sodsai; Hwang, Kwan-Ki; Moody, M. Anthony; Haynes, Barton F.; Bonsignori, Mattia; Sodroski, Joseph; Kaufmann, Daniel E.; Shaw, George M.; Chenine, Agnès L.

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT HIV-1-infected cells presenting envelope glycoproteins (Env) in the CD4-bound conformation on their surface are preferentially targeted by antibody-dependent cellular-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). HIV-1 has evolved sophisticated mechanisms to avoid the exposure of Env ADCC epitopes by downregulating CD4 and by limiting the overall amount of Env on the cell surface. In HIV-1, substitution of large residues such as histidine or tryptophan for serine 375 (S375H/W) in the gp120 Phe 43 cavity, where Phe 43 of CD4 contacts gp120, results in the spontaneous sampling of an Env conformation closer to the CD4-bound state. While residue S375 is well conserved in the majority of group M HIV-1 isolates, CRF01_AE strains have a naturally occurring histidine at this position (H375). Interestingly, CRF01_AE is the predominant circulating strain in Thailand, where the RV144 trial took place. In this trial, which resulted in a modest degree of protection, ADCC responses were identified as being part of the correlate of protection. Here we investigate the influence of the Phe 43 cavity on ADCC responses. Filling this cavity with a histidine or tryptophan residue in Env with a natural serine residue at this position (S375H/W) increased the susceptibility of HIV-1-infected cells to ADCC. Conversely, the replacement of His 375 by a serine residue (H375S) within HIV-1 CRF01_AE decreased the efficiency of the ADCC response. Our results raise the intriguing possibility that the presence of His 375 in the circulating strain where the RV144 trial was held contributed to the observed vaccine efficacy. IMPORTANCE HIV-1-infected cells presenting Env in the CD4-bound conformation on their surface are preferentially targeted by ADCC mediated by HIV-positive (HIV+) sera. Here we show that the gp120 Phe 43 cavity modulates the propensity of Env to sample this conformation and therefore affects the susceptibility of infected cells to ADCC. CRF01_AE HIV-1 strains have an unusual Phe 43 cavity-filling His 375 residue, which increases the propensity of Env to sample the CD4-bound conformation, thereby increasing susceptibility to ADCC. PMID:28100618

l-Type Amino Acid Transporter-1 Overexpression and Melphalan Sensitivity in Barrett's Adenocarcinoma1

PubMed Central

Lin, Jules; Raoof, Duna A; Thomas, Dafydd G; Greenson, Joel K; Giordano, Thomas J; Robinson, Gregory S; Bourner, Maureen J; Bauer, Christopher T; Orringer, Mark B; Beer, David G

2004-01-01

Abstract The L-type amino acid transporter-1 (LAT-1) has been associated with tumor growth. Using cDNA microarrays, overexpression of LAT-1 was found in 87.5% (7/8) of esophageal adenocarcinomas relative to 12 Barrett's samples (33% metaplasia and 66% dysplasia) and was confirmed in 100% (28/28) of Barrett's adenocarcinomas by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Immunohistochemistry revealed LAT-1 staining in 37.5% (24/64) of esophageal adenocarcinomas on tissue microarray. LAT-1 also transports the amino acid-related chemotherapeutic agent, melphalan. Two esophageal adenocarcinoma and one esophageal squamous cell line, expressing LAT-1 on Western blot analysis, were sensitive to therapeutic doses of melphalan (P < .001). Simultaneous treatment with the competitive inhibitor, BCH [2-aminobicyclo-(2,1,1)-heptane-2-carboxylic acid], decreased sensitivity to melphalan (P < .05). In addition, confluent esophageal squamous cultures were less sensitive to melphalan (P < .001) and had a decrease in LAT-1 protein expression. Tumors from two esophageal adenocarcinoma cell lines grown in nude mice retained LAT-1 mRNA expression. These results demonstrate that LAT-1 is highly expressed in a subset of esophageal adenocarcinomas and that Barrett's adenocarcinoma cell lines expressing LAT-1 are sensitive to melphalan. LAT-1 expression is also retained in cell lines grown in nude mice providing a model to evaluate melphalan as a chemotherapeutic agent against esophageal adenocarcinomas expressing LAT-1. PMID:15068672

Antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing effects of lipophilic vitamins on human melanoma A375 cells in vitro.

PubMed

Ishibashi, Mai; Arai, Mariko; Tanaka, Sachiko; Onda, Kenji; Hirano, Toshihiko

2012-01-01

The effects of six lipophilic vitamins: tretinoin (ATRA), vitamin D(3) (VD(3)), VE, VK(1), VK(3), and VK(5) on cell proliferation and apoptosis in human A375 melanoma cells were investigated. VD(3), VK(3), and VK(5) were found to inhibit cell proliferation significantly at concentration ranges of 10-100 μmol/L (p<0.01), while the other vitamins did not show inhibitory effects at 100 μmol/L. VK(3) and VK(5) showed the strongest effects with IC(50) values of less than 10 μmol/L. Dacarbazine slightly inhibited the proliferation of A375 cells at a concentration range of 25-100 μmol/L, but the effects were not statistically significant. VK(3) and VK(5) increased annexin-V positive apoptotic cells, as well as activating caspase-3, in A375 cells. Our findings showed that VD(3), VK(3,) and VK(5) inhibited the growth of dacarbazine resistant human melanoma cells, while ATRA, VE, and VK(1) had little effect on the cell growth. The effects of VK(3) and VK(5) were observed at concentrations lower than 10 μmol/L, which are suggested to have resulted from apoptosis-induction in the melanoma cells.

Evaluation of MicroRNA375 as a Novel Biomarker for Graft Damage in Clinical Islet Transplantation.

PubMed

Kanak, Mazhar A; Takita, Morihito; Shahbazov, Rauf; Lawrence, Michael C; Chung, Wen Yuan; Dennison, Ashley R; Levy, Marlon F; Naziruddin, Bashoo

2015-08-01

Early and sensitive detection of islet graft damage is essential for improving posttransplant outcomes. MicroRNA 375 (miR375) has been reported as a biomarker of pancreatic β-cell death in small animal models. The miR375 levels were measured in purified human islets, sera from patients with autologous and allogeneic islet transplantation as well as total pancreatectomy alone (nontransplanted group). The miR375 levels were also determined in a miniaturized in vitro tube model comprising human islets and autologous blood. The miR375 expression level in islets was dose-dependent (P < 0.001) and significantly elevated after islet damage in plasma in the in vitro model (P = 0.003). Clinical analysis revealed that circulating miR375 levels in both autologous and allogeneic islet recipients were significantly elevated for 7 days after islet infusion, compared with the nontransplanted group (P = 0.005 and <0.001, respectively). Furthermore, miR375 detected the difference in islet graft damage among 3 different anti-inflammatory protocols for clinical autologous transplantation (P < 0.01). Circulating miR375 can be a reliable biomarker to detect graft damage in clinical islet transplantation because serum C-peptide and proinsulin levels are difficult to interpret due to the influence of multiple factors, such as β-cell stress and physiological response.

Efficient Synthesis of Glaziovianin A Isoflavone Series from Dill and Parsley Extracts and Their in Vitro/in Vivo Antimitotic Activity.

PubMed

Semenov, Victor V; Tsyganov, Dmitry V; Semenova, Marina N; Chuprov-Netochin, Roman N; Raihstat, Mikhail M; Konyushkin, Leonid D; Volynchuk, Polina B; Marusich, Elena I; Nazarenko, Vera V; Leonov, Sergey V; Kiselyov, Alex S

2016-05-27

A concise six-step protocol for the synthesis of isoflavone glaziovianin A (GVA) and its alkoxyphenyl derivatives 9 starting with readily available plant metabolites from dill and parsley seeds was developed. The reaction sequence involved an efficient conversion of the key intermediate epoxides 7 into the respective β-ketoaldehydes 8 followed by their Cu(I)-mediated cyclization into the target series 9. The biological activity of GVA and its derivatives was evaluated using a panel of seven human cancer cell lines and an in vivo sea urchin embryo assay. Both screening platforms confirmed the antimitotic effect of the parent GVA (9cg) and its alkoxy derivatives. Structure-activity relationship studies suggested that compounds 9cd and 9cf substituted with trimethoxy- and dillapiol-derived B-rings, respectively, were less active than the parent 9cg. Of the evaluated human cancer cell lines, the A375 melanoma cell line was the most sensitive to the tested molecules. Notably, the target compounds were not cytotoxic against human peripheral blood mononuclear cells up to 10 μM concentration. Phenotypic readouts from the sea urchin assay unequivocally suggest a direct microtubule-destabilizing effect of isoflavones 9cg, 9cd, and 9cf.

Synthesis and anti-proliferative activity of fluoro-substituted chalcones.

PubMed

Burmaoglu, Serdar; Algul, Oztekin; Anıl, Derya Aktas; Gobek, Arzu; Duran, Gulay Gulbol; Ersan, Ronak Haj; Duran, Nizami

2016-07-01

A series of novel fluoro-substituted chalcone derivatives have been synthesized. All synthesized compounds were characterized by (1)H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), (13)C NMR, and elemental analysis. Their anti-proliferative activities were evaluated against five cancer cells lines, namely, A549, A498, HeLa, A375, and HepG2 using the MTT method. Most of the compounds showed moderate to high activity with IC50 values in the range of 0.029-0.729μM. Of all the synthesized compounds, 10 and 19 exhibited the most potent anti-proliferative activities against cancer cells, and 10 was identified as the most promising compound. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Suppression of NF-κB Survival Signaling by Nitrosylcobalamin Sensitizes Neoplasms to the Anti-tumor Effects of Apo2L/TRAIL*

PubMed Central

Chawla-Sarkar, Mamta; Bauer, Joseph A.; Lupica, Joseph A.; Morrison, Bei H.; Tang, Zhuo; Oates, Rhonda K.; Almasan, Alex; DiDonato, Joseph A.; Borden, Ernest C.; Lindner, Daniel J.

2007-01-01

We have previously demonstrated the anti-tumor activity of nitrosylcobalamin (NO-Cbl), an analog of vitamin B12 that delivers nitric oxide (NO) and increases the expression of tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (Apo2L/TRAIL) and its receptors in human tumors. The specific aim of this study was to examine whether NO-Cbl could sensitize drug-resistant melanomas to Apo2L/TRAIL. Antiproliferative effects of NO-Cbl and Apo2L/TRAIL were assessed in malignant melanomas and non-tumorigenic melanocyte and fibro-blast cell lines. Athymic nude mice bearing human melanoma A375 xenografts were treated with NO-Cbl and Apo2L/TRAIL. Apoptosis was measured by TUNEL and confirmed by examining levels and activity of key mediators of apoptosis. The activation status of NF-κB was established by assaying DNA binding, luciferase reporter activity, the phosphorylation status of IκBα, and in vitro IKK activity. NO-Cbl sensitized Apo2L/TRAIL-resistant melanoma cell lines to growth inhibition by Apo2L/TRAIL but had minimal effect on normal cell lines. NO-Cbl and Apo2L/TRAIL exerted synergistic anti-tumor activity against A375 xenografts. Treatment with NO-Cbl followed by Apo2L/TRAIL induced apoptosis in Apo2L/TRAIL-resistant tumor cells, characterized by cleavage of caspase-3, caspase-8, and PARP. NO-Cbl inhibited IKK activation, characterized by decreased phosphorylation of IκBα and inhibition of NF-κB DNA binding activity. NO-Cbl suppressed Apo2L/TRAIL- and TNF-α-mediated activation of a transfected NF-κB-driven luciferase reporter. XIAP, an inhibitor of apoptosis, was inactivated by NO-Cbl. NO-Cbl treatment rendered Apo2L/TRAIL-resistant malignancies sensitive to the anti-tumor effects of Apo2L/TRAIL in vitro and in vivo. The use of NO-Cbl and Apo2L/TRAIL capitalizes on the tumor-specific properties of both agents and represents a promising anti-cancer combination. PMID:12881518

[Synergistic lethal effect of combined treatment of arsenic trioxide and aclacinomycin on human acute myeloid leukemia cell line KG-1a].

PubMed

Ye, Y B; Xu, X J; Chen, Y H; Zhang, M W; Qiu, D F; Guo, Z W; He, H Q

2017-04-23

Objective: To investigate the synergistic lethal effect and mechanism of arsenic trioxide (ATO) and aclacinomycin (ACM) on human acute myeloid leukemia cell line KG-1a. Methods: Colony-forming assay was used to detect the proliferation of KG-1a cells treated with different concentration of ATO and ACM. Compusyn software was used to analyze the synergistic effect of ATO and ACM. Flow cytometry and Wright's staining were used to analyze the apoptotic rate of KG-1a cells induced by combined treatment of ATO and ACM. Western blot was used to determine the expression of proteins associated with apoptosis. Results: The cytotoxicity of arsenic trioxide or aclacinomycin alone was in a dose-dependent manner. Flow cytometry analysis showed that the apoptotic rate of KG-1a cells treated with both 0.4 μmol/L ATO and 10 nmol/L ACM was (34.5±3.1)%, significantly higher than (7.6±1.1)% of 0.4 μmol/L ATO treatment or (18.7±2.3) % of 10 nmol/L ACM treatment alone ( P <0.05). The apoptotic rate of KG-1a cells treated with both 1.5 μmol/L ATO and 37.5 nmol/L ACM was (52.5±4.7)%, significantly higher than (19.1±3.2)% of 1.5 μmol/L ATO treatment or (27.7±2.2)% of 37.5 nmol/L ACM treatment alone ( P <0.05). The apoptotic rate of KG-1a cells treated with both 3.0 μmol/L ATO and 75 nmol/L ACM was (61.3±4.5)%, significantly higher than (29.5±2.5)% of 3.0 μmol/L ATO treatment or (28.6±3.4) % of 75 nmol/L ACM treatment alone ( P <0.05). In addition, the result of Wright's staining showed that combined treatment of ATO and ACM induced a more apparent phenotype of apoptosis when compared with single agent treatment. Compusyn software analysis showed that the combination index (CI) value of combined treatment group was less than 1, which indicated the synergistic effect of these two agents. Conclusions: Combined treatment of ATO and ACM shows a synergistic lethal effect on human acute myeloid leukemia cell line KG-1a via activating the apoptotic pathway, which inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis.

The Effect of Bornyl cis-4-Hydroxycinnamate on Melanoma Cell Apoptosis Is Associated with Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress

PubMed Central

Yang, Tzu-Yen; Wu, Yu-Jen; Chang, Chi-I; Wu, Mei-Li

2018-01-01

Bornyl cis-4-hydroxycinnamate, an active compound isolated from Piper betle stems, was investigated in terms of its effects on A2058 and A375 melanoma cell proliferation and protein expression in this study. We used flow cytometric analysis to examine the early stages of apoptosis induced by bornyl cis-4-hydroxycinnamate in the two melanoma cell lines and employed comparative proteomic analysis to investigate the effects of this compound on protein expression in A375 cells. Master maps generated by PDQuest software from two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) analysis of A375 cells showed that the expression levels of 35 proteins were significantly altered, with 18 proteins upregulated and 17 downregulated. The proteomics study identified several proteins that are involved in mitochondrial dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress), in addition to apoptosis-associated proteins, including prohibitin, hypoxia-upregulated protein 1, stress 70 protein, 78 kDa glucose-regulated protein (GRP78), and protein deglycase DJ-1 (protein DJ-1) in melanoma cells exposed to bornyl cis-4-hydroxycinnamate. The treatment also resulted in a marked decline of the mitochondrial membrane potential, in cytochrome C release into the cytosol, in the activation of Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), Bcl-2-associated death promoter protein (Bad), caspase-3, and caspase-9, and in the decreased expression of p-Bad, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-xl, and induced myeloid leukemia cell differentiation protein-1 (Mcl-1), indicating that apoptosis induced by bornyl cis-4-hydroxycinnamate was mediated by the mitochondria through the caspase-dependent pathway. Also, salubrinal (an eukaryotic initiation factor 2α inhibitor; eIF2α inhibitor) was able to protect the cells from bornyl cis-4-hydroxycinnamate-induced apoptosis. Bornyl cis-4-hydroxycinnamate-related cell death also implied that the protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK)–eIF2α–ATF4–CHOP signal pathways was activated upon bornyl cis-4-hydroxycinnamate treatment. Altogether, our results support the conclusion that bornyl cis-4-hydroxycinnamate-induced apoptosis in melanoma cells is associated with mechanisms correlated with the activation of caspase cascades, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum stress, and indicate that this molecule has the potential to be developed as a chemotherapeutic agent for human melanoma. PMID:29734677

Caspase dependent apoptotic inhibition of melanoma and lung cancer cells by tropical Rubus extracts.

PubMed

George, Blassan Plackal Adimuriyil; Abrahamse, Heidi; Hemmaragala, Nanjundaswamy M

2016-05-01

Rubus fairholmianus Gard. inhibits human melanoma (A375) and lung cancer (A549) cell growth by the caspase dependent apoptotic pathway. Herbal products have a long history of clinical use and acceptance. They are freely available natural compounds that can be safely used to prevent various ailments. The plants and plant derived products became the basis of traditional medicine system throughout the world for thousands of years. The effects of R. fairholmianus root acetone extract (RFRA) on the proliferation of A375 and A549 cells was examined in this study. RFRA led to a decrease in cell viability, proliferation and an increase in cytotoxicity in a dose dependent manner when compared with control and normal skin fibroblast cells (WS1). The morphology of treated cells supported apoptotic cell death. Annexin V/propidium iodide staining indicated that RFRA induced apoptosis in A375 and A549 cells and the percentages of early and late apoptotic populations significantly increased. Moreover, the apoptotic inducing ability of RFRA when analysing effector caspase 3/7 activity, indicated a marked increase in treated cells. In summary, we have shown the anticancer effects of RFRA in A375 and A549 cancer cells via induction of caspase dependent apoptosis in vitro. The extract is more effective against melanoma; which may suggest the usefulness of RFRA-based anticancer therapies. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

The Generation of Insulin Producing Cells from Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells by MiR-375 and Anti-MiR-9.

PubMed

Jafarian, Arefeh; Taghikani, Mohammad; Abroun, Saeid; Allahverdi, Amir; Lamei, Maryam; Lakpour, Niknam; Soleimani, Masoud

2015-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a group of endogenous small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. A number of studies have led to the notion that some miRNAs have key roles in control of pancreatic islet development and insulin secretion. Based on some studies on miRNAs pattern, the researchers in this paper investigated the pancreatic differentiation of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBM-MSCs) by up-regulation of miR-375 and down-regulation of miR-9 by lentiviruses containing miR-375 and anti-miR-9. After 21 days of induction, islet-like clusters containing insulin producing cells (IPCs) were confirmed by dithizone (DTZ) staining. The IPCs and β cell specific related genes and proteins were detected using qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence on days 7, 14 and 21 of differentiation. Glucose challenge test was performed at different concentrations of glucose so extracellular and intracellular insulin and C-peptide were assayed using ELISA kit. Although derived IPCs by miR-375 alone were capable to express insulin and other endocrine specific transcription factors, the cells lacked the machinery to respond to glucose. It was found that over-expression of miR-375 led to a reduction in levels of Mtpn protein in derived IPCs, while treatment with anti-miR-9 following miR-375 over-expression had synergistic effects on MSCs differentiation and insulin secretion in a glucose-regulated manner. The researchers reported that silencing of miR-9 increased OC-2 protein in IPCs that may contribute to the observed glucose-regulated insulin secretion. Although the roles of miR-375 and miR-9 are well known in pancreatic development and insulin secretion, the use of these miRNAs in transdifferentiation was never demonstrated. These findings highlight miRNAs functions in stem cells differentiation and suggest that they could be used as therapeutic tools for gene-based therapy in diabetes mellitus.

Vemurafenib resistance signature by proteome analysis offers new strategies and rational therapeutic concepts.

PubMed

Paulitschke, Verena; Berger, Walter; Paulitschke, Philipp; Hofstätter, Elisabeth; Knapp, Bernhard; Dingelmaier-Hovorka, Ruth; Födinger, Dagmar; Jäger, Walter; Szekeres, Thomas; Meshcheryakova, Anastasia; Bileck, Andrea; Pirker, Christine; Pehamberger, Hubert; Gerner, Christopher; Kunstfeld, Rainer

2015-03-01

The FDA-approved BRAF inhibitor vemurafenib achieves outstanding clinical response rates in patients with melanoma, but early resistance is common. Understanding the pathologic mechanisms of drug resistance and identification of effective therapeutic alternatives are key scientific challenges in the melanoma setting. Using proteomic techniques, including shotgun analysis and 2D-gel electrophoresis, we identified a comprehensive signature of the vemurafenib-resistant M24met in comparison with the vemurafenib-sensitive A375 melanoma cell line. The resistant cells were characterized by loss of differentiation, induction of transformation, enhanced expression of the lysosomal compartment, increased potential for metastasis, migration, adherence and Ca2(+) ion binding, enhanced expression of the MAPK pathway and extracellular matrix proteins, and epithelial-mesenchymal transformation. The main features were verified by shotgun analysis with QEXACTIVE orbitrap MS, electron microscopy, lysosomal staining, Western blotting, and adherence assay in a VM-1 melanoma cell line with acquired vemurafenib resistance. On the basis of the resistance profile, we were able to successfully predict that a novel resveratrol-derived COX-2 inhibitor, M8, would be active against the vemurafenib-resistant but not the vemurafenib-sensitive melanoma cells. Using high-throughput methods for cell line and drug characterization may thus offer a new way to identify key features of vemurafenib resistance, facilitating the design of effective rational therapeutic alternatives. ©2015 American Association for Cancer Research.

The effects of CD147 on the cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and angiogenesis in glioma.

PubMed

Yin, Haoyuan; Shao, Ying; Chen, Xuan

2017-01-01

To analyze the effects of extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (CD147) on glioma proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and angiogenesis. Tissue samples were obtained from 101 glioma cases while normal brain tissues were obtained from 30 brain injury cases. Immunohistochemical assay was performed to detect the expressions of CD147, CD34, and VEGF in tissue samples. QRT-PCR was performed to detect the relative expression of CD147 mRNA in human glioma cell lines. CD147 siRNA was transfected into glioma cell line U251. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and angiogenesis were tested by MTT, flow cytometry, Transwell assay, and vasculogenic mimicry assay, respectively. Expressions of relative proteins were analyzed with western blot. CD147 was positively expressed with the percentage of 0, 37.5, 44.8, 67.9, and 85.7 % in normal tissues and glioma tissues with WHO grades I-IV, respectively, and the scores of MVDand VEGF were associated with the expression of CD147. CD147 was significantly upregulated in the human glioma cell lines (P < 0.05). Downregulated the expression of CD147 suppressed cell proliferation, blocked cell cycle, induced apoptosis, inhibited cell invasion and angiogenesis in glioma cells in vitro. The expression of CD147 was significantly associated with WHO tumor grade and angiogenesis; silencing of CD147 contributed to inhibition of glioma proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis. Our study provided firm evidence that CD 147 is a potential glioma target for anti-angiogenic therapies.

Oxyfadichalcone C inhibits melanoma A375 cell proliferation and metastasis via suppressing PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways.

PubMed

Peng, Xiaolin; Wang, Zhengming; Liu, Yang; Peng, Xin; Liu, Yao; Zhu, Shan; Zhang, Zhe; Qiu, Yuling; Jin, Meihua; Wang, Ran; Zhang, Qingying; Kong, Dexin

2018-08-01

Melanoma remains to be one of the most incurable cancers. Discovery of novel antitumor agent for melanoma therapy is expected. We recently isolated Oxyfadichalcone C from Oxytropis falcate and investigated the anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic activity on human melanoma A375 cells in vitro. Cell viability was determined using MTT assay and soft agar cloning formation assay. The effect of Oxyfadichalcone C on cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry. Cell metastasis was determined by wound healing assay, Transwell assay and Gelatin zymography assay. The effect of Oxyfadichalcone C on signal proteins of PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways was examined by western blot analysis. Synergism assay was employed to determine whether combination of Oxyfadichalcone C with Vemurafenib would enhance the anti-proliferative effect. Oxyfadichalcone C potently inhibited proliferation, induced G1 phase arrest and weak apoptosis in A375 cells. Anti-migration and anti-invasion activities were also indicated. Such effects were associated with upregulation of p27, reduction of cyclin D1, p-pRb, p-Integrin β1, as well as the proteolytic activity of metalloproteinase (MMP)-2/9. Meanwhile, key molecules of PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK pathways were downregulated, which might be involved in the inhibition against proliferation and metastasis of A375 cells by Oxyfadichalcone C. In addition, combination of Oxyfadichalcone C with Vemurafenib at a ratio of IC50 Oxyfadichalcone C : 5 × IC 50 Vemurafenib exhibited synergistic anti-proliferative effect on A375 cells. Our findings suggest that Oxyfadichalcone C has the potential to be developed as a promising drug candidate for the treatment of melanoma. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Methotrexate inhibits the viability of human melanoma cell lines and enhances Fas/Fas-ligand expression, apoptosis and response to interferon-alpha: Rationale for its use in combination therapy

PubMed Central

Nihal, Minakshi; Wu, Jianqiang; Wood, Gary S.

2015-01-01

Melanoma, a highly aggressive form of cancer, is notoriously resistant to available therapies. Methotrexate (MTX), an antifolate, competitively inhibits DNA synthesis and is effective for several types of cancer. In cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), MTX increases Fas death receptor by decreasing Fas promoter methylation by blocking the synthesis of SAM, the principal methyl donor for DNMTs, resulting in enhanced Fas-mediated apoptosis. The objective of this study was to explore the effects of MTX in human melanoma. MTX variably inhibited the survival of melanoma cells and induced apoptosis as evident by annexin V positivity and senescence associated β-galactosidase activity induction. Furthermore, MTX caused increased transcript and protein levels of extrinsic apoptotic pathway factors Fas and Fas-ligand, albeit at different levels in different cell lines. Our pyrosequencing studies showed that this increased expression of Fas was associated with Fas promoter demethylation. Overall, the ability of MTX to up-regulate Fas/FasL and enhance melanoma apoptosis through extrinsic as well as intrinsic pathways might make it a useful component of novel combination therapies designed to affect multiple melanoma targets simultaneously. In support of this concept, combination therapy with MTX and interferon-alpha (IFNα) induced significantly greater apoptosis in the aggressive A375 cell line than either agent alone. PMID:24862567

Curcumin inhibited growth of human melanoma A375 cells via inciting oxidative stress.

PubMed

Liao, Wang; Xiang, Wei; Wang, Fei-Fei; Wang, Rui; Ding, Yan

2017-11-01

Curcumin, a polyphenol compound, possesses potent pharmacological properties in preventing cancers, which make it as a potential anti-cancer mediator. However, it is still unknown that whether Curcumin induced melanoma A375 cell was associated with oxidative stress. Here, we firstly found a fascinating result that Curcumin could reduce the proliferation and induced apoptosis of human melanoma A375 cells. Meanwhile, IC 50 of Curcumin on A375 cells is 80μM at 48h. In addition, Curcumin caused oxidative stress through inducing further ROS burst, decreasing GSH, and wrecking mitochondria membrane potential (MMP), which were reversed by ROS inhibitor N-acetylcysteine (NAC). Moreover, MMP disruption led to the release of Cytochrome c from mitochondria and subsequently led to intracellular apoptosis. Furthermore, we found that ROS-dependent HIF-1α and its downstream proteins also play an important role on Curcumin induced apoptosis. In conclusion, our results shed new lights on the therapy of melanoma that Curcumin may be a promising candidate. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.

In vitro anticancer activity of Betulinic acid and derivatives thereof on equine melanoma cell lines from grey horses and in vivo safety assessment of the compound NVX-207 in two horses.

PubMed

Liebscher, G; Vanchangiri, K; Mueller, Th; Feige, K; Cavalleri, J-M V; Paschke, R

2016-02-25

Betulinic acid, a pentacyclic triterpene, and its derivatives are promising compounds for cancer treatment in humans. Melanoma is not only a problem for humans but also for grey horses as they have a high potential of developing melanoma lesions coupled to the mutation causing their phenotype. Current chemotherapeutic treatment carries the risk of adverse health effects for the horse owner or the treating veterinarian by exposure to antineoplastic compounds. Most treatments have low prospects for systemic tumor regression. Thus, a new therapy is needed. In this in vitro study, Betulinic acid and its two derivatives B10 and NVX-207, both with an improved water solubility compared to Betulinic acid, were tested on two equine melanoma cell lines (MelDuWi and MellJess/HoMelZh) and human melanoma (A375) cell line. We could demonstrate that all three compounds especially NVX-207 show high cytotoxicity on both equine melanoma cell lines. The treatment with these compounds lead to externalization of phosphatidylserines on the cell membrane (AnnexinV-staining), DNA-fragmentation (cell cycle analysis) and activation of initiator and effector caspases (Caspase assays). Our results indicate that the apoptosis is induced in the equine melanoma cells by all three compounds. Furthermore, we succeed in encapsulating the most active compound NVX-207 in 2-Hydroxyprolyl-β-cyclodextrine without a loss of its activity. This formulation can be used as a promising antitumor agent for treating grey horse melanoma. In a first tolerability evaluation in vivo the formulation was administered every one week for 19 consecutive weeks and well tolerated in two adult melanoma affected horses. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Licochalcone D induces apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion in human melanoma A375 cells.

PubMed

Si, Lingling; Yan, Xinyan; Hao, Wenjin; Ma, Xiaoyi; Ren, Huanhuan; Ren, Boxue; Li, Defang; Dong, Zhengping; Zheng, Qiusheng

2018-05-01

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of Licochalcone D (LD) on the apoptosis and migration and invasion in human melanoma A375 cells. Cell proliferation was determined by sulforhodamine B assay. Apoptosis was assessed by Hoechst 33258 and Annexin V‑FITC/PI staining and JC‑1 assay. Total intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was examined by DCFH‑DA. Wound healing and Transwell assays were used to detect migration and invasion of the cells. The activities of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP‑2 and MMP‑9) were assessed via gelatin zymography. Tumor growth in vivo was evaluated in C57BL/6 mice. RT‑PCR, qPCR, ELISA and western blot analysis were utilized to measure the mRNA and protein levels. Our results showed that LD inhibited the proliferation of A375 and SK‑MEL‑5 cells in a concentration‑dependent manner. After treatment with LD, A375 cells displayed obvious apoptotic characteristics, and the number of apoptotic cells was significantly increased. Pro‑apoptotic protein Bax, caspase‑9 and caspase‑3 were upregulated, while anti‑apoptotic protein Bcl‑2 was downregulated in the LD‑treated cells. Meanwhile, LD induced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and increased the level of ROS. ROS production was inhibited by the co‑treatment of LD and free radical scavenger N‑acetyl‑cysteine (NAC). Furthermore, LD also blocked A375 cell migration and invasion in vitro which was associated with the downregulation of MMP‑9 and MMP‑2. Finally, intragastric administration of LD suppressed tumor growth in the mouse xenograft model of murine melanoma B16F0 cells. These results suggest that LD may be a potential drug for human melanoma treatment by inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway and blocking cell migration and invasion.

Licochalcone D induces apoptosis and inhibits migration and invasion in human melanoma A375 cells

PubMed Central

Si, Lingling; Yan, Xinyan; Hao, Wenjin; Ma, Xiaoyi; Ren, Huanhuan; Ren, Boxue; Li, Defang; Dong, Zhengping; Zheng, Qiusheng

2018-01-01

The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of Licochalcone D (LD) on the apoptosis and migration and invasion in human melanoma A375 cells. Cell proliferation was determined by sulforhodamine B assay. Apoptosis was assessed by Hoechst 33258 and Annexin V-FITC/PI staining and JC-1 assay. Total intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was examined by DCFH-DA. Wound healing and Transwell assays were used to detect migration and invasion of the cells. The activities of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2 and MMP-9) were assessed via gelatin zymography. Tumor growth in vivo was evaluated in C57BL/6 mice. RT-PCR, qPCR, ELISA and western blot analysis were utilized to measure the mRNA and protein levels. Our results showed that LD inhibited the proliferation of A375 and SK-MEL-5 cells in a concentration-dependent manner. After treatment with LD, A375 cells displayed obvious apoptotic characteristics, and the number of apoptotic cells was significantly increased. Pro-apoptotic protein Bax, caspase-9 and caspase-3 were upregulated, while anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 was downregulated in the LD-treated cells. Meanwhile, LD induced the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) and increased the level of ROS. ROS production was inhibited by the co-treatment of LD and free radical scavenger N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC). Furthermore, LD also blocked A375 cell migration and invasion in vitro which was associated with the downregulation of MMP-9 and MMP-2. Finally, intragastric administration of LD suppressed tumor growth in the mouse xenograft model of murine melanoma B16F0 cells. These results suggest that LD may be a potential drug for human melanoma treatment by inhibiting proliferation, inducing apoptosis via the mitochondrial pathway and blocking cell migration and invasion. PMID:29565458

Synthesis and preclinical characterization of [18F]FPBZA: a novel PET probe for melanoma.

PubMed

Wu, Shih-Yen; Huang, Shih-Pin; Lo, Yen-Chen; Liu, Ren-Shyan; Wang, Shyh-Jen; Lin, Wuu-Jyh; Shen, Chih-Chieh; Wang, Hsin-Ell

2014-01-01

Benzamide can specifically bind to melanoma cells. A 18F-labeled benzamide derivative, [18F]N-(2-diethylaminoethyl)-4-[2-(2-(2-fluoroethoxy) ethoxy)ethoxy]benzamide ([18F]FPBZA), was developed as a promising PET probe for primary and metastatic melanoma. [18F]FPBZA was synthesized via a one-step radiofluorination in this study. The specific uptake of [18F]FPBZA was studied in B16F0 melanoma cells, A375 amelanotic melanoma cells, and NB-DNJ-pretreated B16F0 melanoma cells. The biological characterization of [18F]FPBZA was performed on mice bearing B16F0 melanoma, A375 amelanotic melanoma, or inflammation lesion. [18F]FPBZA can be prepared efficiently with a yield of 40-50%. The uptake of [18F]FPBZA by B16F0 melanoma cells was significantly higher than those by A375 tumor cells and NB-DNJ-pretreated B16F0 melanoma cells. B16F0 melanoma displayed prominent uptake of [18F]FPBZA at 2 h (7.81±0.82%ID/g), compared with A375 tumor and inflammation lesion (3.00±0.71 and 1.67±0.56%ID/g, resp.). [18F]FPBZA microPET scan clearly delineated B16F0 melanoma but not A375 tumor and inflammation lesion. In mice bearing pulmonary metastases, the lung radioactivity reached 4.77±0.36%ID/g at 2 h (versus 1.16±0.23%ID/g in normal mice). Our results suggested that [18F]FPBZA PET would provide a promising and specific approach for the detection of primary and metastatic melanoma lesions.

Synthesis and Preclinical Characterization of [18F]FPBZA: A Novel PET Probe for Melanoma

PubMed Central

Huang, Shih-Pin; Lo, Yen-Chen; Liu, Ren-Shyan; Shen, Chih-Chieh

2014-01-01

Introduction. Benzamide can specifically bind to melanoma cells. A 18F-labeled benzamide derivative, [18F]N-(2-diethylaminoethyl)-4-[2-(2-(2-fluoroethoxy) ethoxy)ethoxy]benzamide ([18F]FPBZA), was developed as a promising PET probe for primary and metastatic melanoma. Methods. [18F]FPBZA was synthesized via a one-step radiofluorination in this study. The specific uptake of [18F]FPBZA was studied in B16F0 melanoma cells, A375 amelanotic melanoma cells, and NB-DNJ-pretreated B16F0 melanoma cells. The biological characterization of [18F]FPBZA was performed on mice bearing B16F0 melanoma, A375 amelanotic melanoma, or inflammation lesion. Results. [18F]FPBZA can be prepared efficiently with a yield of 40–50%. The uptake of [18F]FPBZA by B16F0 melanoma cells was significantly higher than those by A375 tumor cells and NB-DNJ-pretreated B16F0 melanoma cells. B16F0 melanoma displayed prominent uptake of [18F]FPBZA at 2 h (7.81 ± 0.82 %ID/g), compared with A375 tumor and inflammation lesion (3.00 ± 0.71 and 1.67 ± 0.56 %ID/g, resp.). [18F]FPBZA microPET scan clearly delineated B16F0 melanoma but not A375 tumor and inflammation lesion. In mice bearing pulmonary metastases, the lung radioactivity reached 4.77 ± 0.36 %ID/g at 2 h (versus 1.16 ± 0.23 %ID/g in normal mice). Conclusions. Our results suggested that [18F]FPBZA PET would provide a promising and specific approach for the detection of primary and metastatic melanoma lesions. PMID:25254219

Reprogramming human A375 amelanotic melanoma cells by catalase overexpression: Upregulation of antioxidant genes correlates with regression of melanoma malignancy and with malignant progression when downregulated.

PubMed

Bracalente, Candelaria; Ibañez, Irene L; Berenstein, Ariel; Notcovich, Cintia; Cerda, María B; Klamt, Fabio; Chernomoretz, Ariel; Durán, Hebe

2016-07-05

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in tumor transformation. The antioxidant system (AOS) protects cells from ROS damage. However, it is also hijacked by cancers cells to proliferate within the tumor. Thus, identifying proteins altered by redox imbalance in cancer cells is an attractive prognostic and therapeutic tool. Gene expression microarrays in A375 melanoma cells with different ROS levels after overexpressing catalase were performed. Dissimilar phenotypes by differential compensation to hydrogen peroxide scavenging were generated. The melanotic A375-A7 (A7) upregulated TYRP1, CNTN1 and UCHL1 promoting melanogenesis. The metastatic A375-G10 (G10) downregulated MTSS1 and TIAM1, proteins absent in metastasis. Moreover, differential coexpression of AOS genes (EPHX2, GSTM3, MGST1, MSRA, TXNRD3, MGST3 and GSR) was found in A7 and G10. Their increase in A7 improved its AOS ability and therefore, oxidative stress response, resembling less aggressive tumor cells. Meanwhile, their decrease in G10 revealed a disruption in the AOS and therefore, enhanced its metastatic capacity.These gene signatures, not only bring new insights into the physiopathology of melanoma, but also could be relevant in clinical prognostic to classify between non aggressive and metastatic melanomas.

Phenethyl isothiocyanate triggers apoptosis in human malignant melanoma A375.S2 cells through reactive oxygen species and the mitochondria-dependent pathways.

PubMed

Huang, S-H; Hsu, M-H; Hsu, S-C; Yang, J-S; Huang, W-W; Huang, A-C; Hsiao, Y-P; Yu, C-C; Chung, J-G

2014-03-01

We have reported previously that phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) induces apoptosis in human osteosarcoma U-2 OS cells. Cytotoxic activity of PEITC towards other cancer cells such as human malignant melanoma and skin cancer cells has not been reported. In this study, the anticancer activity of PEITC towards human malignant melanoma cancer A375.S2 cells was investigated. To determine the mechanisms of PEITC inhibition of cell growth, the following end points were determined in A375.S2 cells: cell morphological changes, cell cycle arrest, DNA damage and fragmentation assays and morphological assessment of nuclear change, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca(2+) generations, mitochondrial membrane potential disruption, and nitric oxide and 10-N-nonyl acridine orange productions, expression and activation of caspase-3 and -9, B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated X protein (Bax), Bcl-2, poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase, and cytochrome c release, apoptosis-inducing factor and endonuclease G. PEITC induced morphological changes in time- and dose-dependent manner. PEITC induced G2/M phase arrest and induced apoptosis via endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated mitochondria-dependent pathway. Western blot analysis showed that PEITC promoted Bax expression and inhibited Bcl-2 expression associated with the disintegration of the outer mitochondrial membrane causing cytochrome c release, and activation of caspase-9 and -3 cascade leading to apoptosis. We conclude that PEITC-triggered apoptotic death in A375.S2 cells occurs through ROS-mediated mitochondria-dependent pathways.

ZnO nanoparticle incorporated nanostructured metallic titanium for increased mesenchymal stem cell response and antibacterial activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Elizabeth, Elmy; Baranwal, Gaurav; Krishnan, Amit G.; Menon, Deepthy; Nair, Manitha

2014-03-01

Recent trends in titanium implants are towards the development of nanoscale topographies that mimic the nanoscale properties of bone tissue. Although the nanosurface promotes the integration of osteoblast cells, infection related problems can also occur, leading to implant failure. Therefore it is imperative to reduce bacterial adhesion on an implant surface, either with or without the use of drugs/antibacterial agents. Herein, we have investigated two different aspects of Ti surfaces in inhibiting bacterial adhesion and concurrently promoting mammalian cell adhesion. These include (i) the type of nanoscale topography (Titania nanotube (TNT) and Titania nanoleaf (TNL)) and (ii) the presence of an antibacterial agent like zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnOnp) on Ti nanosurfaces. To address this, periodically arranged TNT (80-120 nm) and non-periodically arranged TNL surfaces were generated by the anodization and hydrothermal techniques respectively, and incorporated with ZnOnp of different concentrations (375 μM, 750 μM, 1.125 mM and 1.5 mM). Interestingly, TNL surfaces decreased the adherence of staphylococcus aureus while increasing the adhesion and viability of human osteosarcoma MG63 cell line and human mesenchymal stem cells, even in the absence of ZnOnp. In contrast, TNT surfaces exhibited an increased bacterial and mammalian cell adhesion. The influence of ZnOnp on these surfaces in altering the bacterial and cell adhesion was found to be concentration dependent, with an optimal range of 375-750 μM. Above 750 μM, although bacterial adhesion was reduced, cellular viability was considerably affected. Thus our study helps us to infer that nanoscale topography by itself or its combination with an optimal concentration of antibacterial ZnOnp would provide a differential cell behavior and thereby a desirable biological response, facilitating the long term success of an implant.

Cytotoxic activity and composition of petroleum ether extract from Magydaris tomentosa (Desf.) W. D. J. Koch (Apiaceae).

PubMed

Autore, Giuseppina; Marzocco, Stefania; Formisano, Carmen; Bruno, Maurizio; Rosselli, Sergio; Jemia, Mariem Ben; Senatore, Felice

2015-01-16

The petroleum ether extract of Magydaris tomentosa flowers (Desf.) W. D. J. Koch has been analyzed by GC-MS. It is mainly constituted by furanocoumarins such as xanthotoxin, xanthotoxol, isopimpinellin, and bergaptene. Other coumarins such as 7-methoxy-8-(2-formyl-2-methylpropyl) coumarin and osthole also occurred. The antiproliferative activity of Magydaris tomentosa flower extract has been evaluated in vitro on murine monocye/macrophages (J774A.1), human melanoma (A375) and human breast cancer (MCF-7) tumor cell lines, showing a major activity against the latter.

Hemoglobin enhances tissue factor expression on human malignant cells.

PubMed

Siddiqui, F A; Amirkhosravi, A; Amaya, M; Meyer, T; Biggerstaff, J; Desai, H; Francis, J L

2001-04-01

Tissue Factor (TF) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that complexes with factor VII/activated factor VII to initiate blood coagulation. TF may be expressed on the surface of various cells including monocytes and endothelial cells. Over-expression of TF in human tumor cell lines promotes metastasis. We recently showed that hemoglobin (Hb) forms a specific complex with TF purified from human malignant melanoma cells and enhances its procoagulant activity (PCA). To further study this interaction, we examined the effect of Hb on the expression of TF on human malignant (TF+) cells and KG1 myeloid leukemia (TF-) cells. Human melanoma A375 and J82 bladder carcinoma cells, which express TF at moderate and relatively high levels, respectively, were incubated with varying concentrations (0-1.5 mg/ml) of Hb. After washing, cells were analyzed for Hb binding and TF expression using flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. Hb bound to the cells in a concentration-dependent manner, and increased both TF expression and PCA. The human A375 malignant melanoma cells incubated with Hb (1 mg/ml) expressed up to six times more TF antigen than cells without Hb. This increase in TF expression and PCA of intact cells incubated with Hb was significantly inhibited by cycloheximide at a concentration of 10 microg/ml (P < 0.01). An increase in total cellular TF antigen content was demonstrated by specific immunoassay. In contrast, Hb (5 mg/ml) did not induce TF expression and PCA on KG1 cells as determined by flow cytometry and TF (FXAA) activity. We conclude that Hb specifically binds to TF-bearing malignant cells and increases their PCA. This effect seems to be at least partly due to de novo synthesis of TF and increased surface expression. However, the exact mechanism by which Hb binds and upregulates TF expression remains to be determined.

Primary Tr1 cells from metastatic melanoma eliminate tumor-promoting macrophages through granzyme B- and perforin-dependent mechanisms.

PubMed

Yan, Hongxia; Zhang, Ping; Kong, Xue; Hou, Xianglian; Zhao, Li; Li, Tianhang; Yuan, Xiaozhou; Fu, Hongjun

2017-04-01

In malignant melanoma, tumor-associated macrophages play multiple roles in promoting tumor growth, such as inducing the transformation of melanocytes under ultraviolet irradiation, increasing angiogenesis in melanomas, and suppressing antitumor immunity. Because granzyme B- and perforin-expressing Tr1 cells could specifically eliminate antigen-presenting cells of myeloid origin, we examined whether Tr1 cells in melanoma could eliminate tumor-promoting macrophages and how the interaction between Tr1 cells and macrophages could affect the growth of melanoma cells. Tr1 cells were characterized by high interleukin 10 secretion and low Foxp3 expression and were enriched in the CD4 + CD49b + LAG-3 + T-cell fraction. Macrophages derived from peripheral blood monocytes in the presence of modified melanoma-conditioned media demonstrated tumor-promoting capacity, exemplified by improving the proliferation of cocultured A375 malignant melanoma cells. But when primary Tr1 cells were present in the macrophage-A375 coculture, the growth of A375 cells was abrogated. The conventional CD25 + Treg cells, however, were unable to inhibit macrophage-mediated increase in tumor cell growth. Further analyses showed that Tr1 cells did not directly eliminate A375 cells, but mediated the killing of tumor-promoting macrophages through the secretion of granzyme B and perforin. The tumor-infiltrating interleukin 10 + Foxp3 - CD4 + T cells expressed very low levels of granzyme B and perforin, possibly suggested the downregulation of Tr1 cytotoxic capacity in melanoma tumors. Together, these data demonstrated an antitumor function of Tr1 cells through the elimination of tumor-promoting macrophages, which was not shared by conventional Tregs.

Experimental Studies of Boronophenylalanine ({sup 10}BPA) Biodistribution for the Individual Application of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) for Malignant Melanoma Treatment

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Carpano, Marina; Perona, Marina; Rodriguez, Carla

Purpose: Patients with the same histopathologic diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma treated with identical protocols of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) have shown different clinical outcomes. The objective of the present studies was to evaluate the biodistribution of boronophenilalanina ({sup 10}BPA) for the potential application of BNCT for the treatment of melanoma on an individual basis. Methods and Materials: The boronophenilalanine (BPA) uptake was evaluated in 3 human melanoma cell lines: MEL-J, A375, and M8. NIH nude mice were implanted with 4 10{sup 6} MEL-J cells, and biodistribution studies of BPA (350 mg/kg intraperitoneally) were performed. Static infrared imaging using a speciallymore » modified infrared camera adapted to measure the body infrared radiance of small animals was used. Proliferation marker, Ki-67, and endothelial marker, CD31, were analyzed in tumor samples. Results: The in vitro studies demonstrated different patterns of BPA uptake for each analyzed cell line (P<.001 for MEL-J and A375 vs M8 cells). The in vivo studies showed a maximum average boron concentration of 25.9 ± 2.6 μg/g in tumor, with individual values ranging between 11.7 and 52.0 μg/g of {sup 10}B 2 hours after the injection of BPA. Tumor temperature always decreased as the tumors increased in size, with values ranging between 37°C and 23°C. A significant correlation between tumor temperature and tumor-to-blood boron concentration ratio was found (R{sup 2} = 0.7, rational function fit). The immunohistochemical studies revealed, in tumors with extensive areas of viability, a high number of positive cells for Ki-67, blood vessels of large diameter evidenced by the marker CD31, and a direct logistic correlation between proliferative status and boron concentration difference between tumor and blood (R{sup 2} = 0.81, logistic function fit). Conclusion: We propose that these methods could be suitable for designing new screening protocols applied before melanoma BNCT treatment for each individual patient and lesion.« less

Experimental Studies of Boronophenylalanine ((10)BPA) Biodistribution for the Individual Application of Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) for Malignant Melanoma Treatment.

PubMed

Carpano, Marina; Perona, Marina; Rodriguez, Carla; Nievas, Susana; Olivera, Maria; Santa Cruz, Gustavo A; Brandizzi, Daniel; Cabrini, Romulo; Pisarev, Mario; Juvenal, Guillermo Juan; Dagrosa, Maria Alejandra

2015-10-01

Patients with the same histopathologic diagnosis of cutaneous melanoma treated with identical protocols of boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) have shown different clinical outcomes. The objective of the present studies was to evaluate the biodistribution of boronophenilalanina ((10)BPA) for the potential application of BNCT for the treatment of melanoma on an individual basis. The boronophenilalanine (BPA) uptake was evaluated in 3 human melanoma cell lines: MEL-J, A375, and M8. NIH nude mice were implanted with 4 10(6) MEL-J cells, and biodistribution studies of BPA (350 mg/kg intraperitoneally) were performed. Static infrared imaging using a specially modified infrared camera adapted to measure the body infrared radiance of small animals was used. Proliferation marker, Ki-67, and endothelial marker, CD31, were analyzed in tumor samples. The in vitro studies demonstrated different patterns of BPA uptake for each analyzed cell line (P<.001 for MEL-J and A375 vs M8 cells). The in vivo studies showed a maximum average boron concentration of 25.9 ± 2.6 μg/g in tumor, with individual values ranging between 11.7 and 52.0 μg/g of (10)B 2 hours after the injection of BPA. Tumor temperature always decreased as the tumors increased in size, with values ranging between 37 °C and 23 °C. A significant correlation between tumor temperature and tumor-to-blood boron concentration ratio was found (R(2) = 0.7, rational function fit). The immunohistochemical studies revealed, in tumors with extensive areas of viability, a high number of positive cells for Ki-67, blood vessels of large diameter evidenced by the marker CD31, and a direct logistic correlation between proliferative status and boron concentration difference between tumor and blood (R(2) = 0.81, logistic function fit). We propose that these methods could be suitable for designing new screening protocols applied before melanoma BNCT treatment for each individual patient and lesion. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Reprogramming human A375 amelanotic melanoma cells by catalase overexpression: Upregulation of antioxidant genes correlates with regression of melanoma malignancy and with malignant progression when downregulated

PubMed Central

Berenstein, Ariel; Notcovich, Cintia; Cerda, María B.; Klamt, Fabio; Chernomoretz, Ariel; Durán, Hebe

2016-01-01

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are implicated in tumor transformation. The antioxidant system (AOS) protects cells from ROS damage. However, it is also hijacked by cancers cells to proliferate within the tumor. Thus, identifying proteins altered by redox imbalance in cancer cells is an attractive prognostic and therapeutic tool. Gene expression microarrays in A375 melanoma cells with different ROS levels after overexpressing catalase were performed. Dissimilar phenotypes by differential compensation to hydrogen peroxide scavenging were generated. The melanotic A375-A7 (A7) upregulated TYRP1, CNTN1 and UCHL1 promoting melanogenesis. The metastatic A375-G10 (G10) downregulated MTSS1 and TIAM1, proteins absent in metastasis. Moreover, differential coexpression of AOS genes (EPHX2, GSTM3, MGST1, MSRA, TXNRD3, MGST3 and GSR) was found in A7 and G10. Their increase in A7 improved its AOS ability and therefore, oxidative stress response, resembling less aggressive tumor cells. Meanwhile, their decrease in G10 revealed a disruption in the AOS and therefore, enhanced its metastatic capacity. These gene signatures, not only bring new insights into the physiopathology of melanoma, but also could be relevant in clinical prognostic to classify between non aggressive and metastatic melanomas. PMID:27206673

Identification of BMS-200475 as a potent and selective inhibitor of hepatitis B virus.

PubMed Central

Innaimo, S F; Seifer, M; Bisacchi, G S; Standring, D N; Zahler, R; Colonno, R J

1997-01-01

BMS-200475 is a novel carbocyclic 2'-deoxyguanosine analog found to possess potent and selective anti-hepatitis B virus (anti-HBV) activity. BMS-200475 is distinguished from guanosine by replacement of the natural furanose oxygen on the sugar moiety with an exo carbon-carbon double bond. In the HepG2 stably transfected cell line 2.2.15, BMS-200475 had a 50% effective concentration (EC50) of 3.75 nM against HBV, as determined by analysis of secreted HBV DNA. Structurally related compounds with adenine, iodouracil, or thymine base substitutions were significantly less potent or were inactive. Direct comparison of the antiviral activities of BMS-200475 with those of a variety of other nucleoside analogs, including lamivudine (EC50 = 116.26 nM), demonstrated the clearly superior in vitro potency of BMS-200475 in 2.2.15 cells. Intracellular HBV replicative intermediates were uniformly reduced when cells were treated with BMS-200475, but rebounded after treatment was terminated. The concentration of BMS-200475 causing 50% cytotoxicity in 2.2.15 cell cultures was 30 microM, approximately 8,000-fold greater than the concentration required to inhibit HBV replication in the same cell line. Treatment with BMS-200475 resulted in no apparent inhibitory effects on mitochondrial DNA content. PMID:9210663

Comparative Analysis of 3D Bladder Tumor Spheroids Obtained by Forced Floating and Hanging Drop Methods for Drug Screening.

PubMed

Amaral, Robson L F; Miranda, Mariza; Marcato, Priscyla D; Swiech, Kamilla

2017-01-01

Introduction: Cell-based assays using three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures may reflect the antitumor activity of compounds more accurately, since these models reproduce the tumor microenvironment better. Methods: Here, we report a comparative analysis of cell behavior in the two most widely employed methods for 3D spheroid culture, forced floating (Ultra-low Attachment, ULA, plates), and hanging drop (HD) methods, using the RT4 human bladder cancer cell line as a model. The morphology parameters and growth/metabolism of the spheroids generated were first characterized, using four different cell-seeding concentrations (0.5, 1.25, 2.5, and 3.75 × 10 4 cells/mL), and then, subjected to drug resistance evaluation. Results: Both methods generated spheroids with a smooth surface and round shape in a spheroidization time of about 48 h, regardless of the cell-seeding concentration used. Reduced cell growth and metabolism was observed in 3D cultures compared to two-dimensional (2D) cultures. The optimal range of spheroid diameter (300-500 μm) was obtained using cultures initiated with 0.5 and 1.25 × 10 4 cells/mL for the ULA method and 2.5 and 3.75 × 10 4 cells/mL for the HD method. RT4 cells cultured under 3D conditions also exhibited a higher resistance to doxorubicin (IC 50 of 1.00 and 0.83 μg/mL for the ULA and HD methods, respectively) compared to 2D cultures (IC 50 ranging from 0.39 to 0.43). Conclusions: Comparing the results, we concluded that the forced floating method using ULA plates was considered more suitable and straightforward to generate RT4 spheroids for drug screening/cytotoxicity assays. The results presented here also contribute to the improvement in the standardization of the 3D cultures required for widespread application.

Comparative Analysis of 3D Bladder Tumor Spheroids Obtained by Forced Floating and Hanging Drop Methods for Drug Screening

PubMed Central

Amaral, Robson L. F.; Miranda, Mariza; Marcato, Priscyla D.; Swiech, Kamilla

2017-01-01

Introduction: Cell-based assays using three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures may reflect the antitumor activity of compounds more accurately, since these models reproduce the tumor microenvironment better. Methods: Here, we report a comparative analysis of cell behavior in the two most widely employed methods for 3D spheroid culture, forced floating (Ultra-low Attachment, ULA, plates), and hanging drop (HD) methods, using the RT4 human bladder cancer cell line as a model. The morphology parameters and growth/metabolism of the spheroids generated were first characterized, using four different cell-seeding concentrations (0.5, 1.25, 2.5, and 3.75 × 104 cells/mL), and then, subjected to drug resistance evaluation. Results: Both methods generated spheroids with a smooth surface and round shape in a spheroidization time of about 48 h, regardless of the cell-seeding concentration used. Reduced cell growth and metabolism was observed in 3D cultures compared to two-dimensional (2D) cultures. The optimal range of spheroid diameter (300–500 μm) was obtained using cultures initiated with 0.5 and 1.25 × 104 cells/mL for the ULA method and 2.5 and 3.75 × 104 cells/mL for the HD method. RT4 cells cultured under 3D conditions also exhibited a higher resistance to doxorubicin (IC50 of 1.00 and 0.83 μg/mL for the ULA and HD methods, respectively) compared to 2D cultures (IC50 ranging from 0.39 to 0.43). Conclusions: Comparing the results, we concluded that the forced floating method using ULA plates was considered more suitable and straightforward to generate RT4 spheroids for drug screening/cytotoxicity assays. The results presented here also contribute to the improvement in the standardization of the 3D cultures required for widespread application. PMID:28878686

Expression of gap junction genes connexin 32 and connexin 43 mRNAs and proteins, and their role in hepatocarcinogenesis

PubMed Central

Ma, Xiang-Dong; Ma, Xing; Sui, Yan-Fang; Wang, Wen-Liang

2002-01-01

AIM: To investigate the relationship between hepatocarcinogenesis and the expression of connexin32 (cx32), connexin43 (cx43) mRNAs and proteins in vitro. METHODS: Gap junction genes cx32 and cx43 mRNA in hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines HHCC, SMMC-7721 and normal liver cell line QZG were detected by in situ hybridization (ISH) with digoxin-labeled cx32, and cx43 cDNA probes. Expression of Cx32 and Cx43 proteins in the cell lines was revealed by indirect immuno-fluorescence and flow cytometry (FCM). RESULTS: Blue positive hybridization signals of cx32 and cx43 mRNAs detected by ISH with cx32 and cx43 cDNA probes respectively were located in cytoplasm of cells of HHCC, SMMC-7721 and QZG. No significant difference of either cx32 mRNA or cx43 mRNA was tested among HHCC, SMMC-7721 and QZG (P = 2.673, HHCC vs QZG; P = 1.375, SMMC-7721 vs QZG). FCM assay showed that the positive rates of Cx32 protein in HHCC, SMMC-7721 and QZG were 0.7%, 1.7% and 99.0%, and the positive rates of Cx43 protein in HHCC, SMMC-7721 and QZG were 7.3%, 26.5% and 99.1% respectively. Significant differences of both Cx32 and Cx43 protein expression existed between hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines and normal liver cell line (P = 0.0069, HHCC vs QZG; P = 0.0087, SMMC-7721 vs QZG). Moreover, the fluorescent intensities of Cx32 and Cx43 proteins in HHCC, SMMC-7721 were lower than that in QZG. CONCLUSION: Hepatocellular carcinoma cell lines HHCC and SMMC-7721 exhibited lower positive rates and fluorescent intensities of Cx32, Cx43 proteins compared with that of normal liver cell line QZG. It is suggested that lower expression of both Cx32 and Cx43 proteins in hepatocellular carcinoma cells could play pivotal roles in the hepatocarcinogenesis. Besides, genetic defects of cx32 and cx43 in post-translational processing should be considered. PMID:11833073

Bromelain inhibits nuclear factor kappa-B translocation, driving human epidermoid carcinoma A431 and melanoma A375 cells through G(2)/M arrest to apoptosis.

PubMed

Bhui, Kulpreet; Tyagi, Shilpa; Srivastava, Amit Kumar; Singh, Madhulika; Roy, Preeti; Singh, Richa; Shukla, Yogeshwer

2012-03-01

Bromelain, obtained from pineapple, is already in use clinically as adjunct in chemotherapy. Our objective was to test its ability to act as a sole anti-cancer agent. Therefore, we describe its anti-proliferative, anti-inflammatory and subsequent anti-cancer effects in vitro, against human epidermoid carcinoma-A431 and melanoma-A375 cells. Bromelain exhibited reduction in proliferation of both these cell-lines and suppressed their potential for anchorage-independent growth. Further, suppression of inflammatory signaling by bromelain was evident by inhibition of Akt regulated-nuclear factor-kappaB activation via suppression of inhibitory-kappaBα phosphorylation and concomitant reduction in cyclooxygenase-2. Since, the inflammatory cascade is well-known to be closely allied to cancer; we studied the effect of bromelain on events/molecules central to it. Bromelain caused depletion of intracellular glutathione and generation of reactive oxygen-species followed by mitochondrial membrane depolarization. This led to bromelain-induced cell-cycle arrest at G(2)/M phase which was mediated by modulation of cyclin B1, phospho-cdc25C, Plk1, phospho-cdc2, and myt1. This was subsequently followed by induction of apoptosis, indicated by membrane-blebbing, modulation of Bax-Bcl-2 ratio, Apaf-1, caspase-9, and caspase-3; chromatin-condensation, increase in caspase-activity and DNA-fragmentation. Bromelain afforded substantial anti-cancer potential in these settings; hence we suggest it as a potential prospect for anti-cancer agent besides only an additive in chemotherapy. Copyright ©2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

18 CFR 375.103 - Official seal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... protruding from a solid color wing-like shape. Below the eagle shall appear five squares, arranged in a horizontal line. Each of these squares shall contain a circle representing an area of the Commission's responsibility. The first square at the left of the line shall include a stylized representation of a pipeline...

18 CFR 375.103 - Official seal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... protruding from a solid color wing-like shape. Below the eagle shall appear five squares, arranged in a horizontal line. Each of these squares shall contain a circle representing an area of the Commission's responsibility. The first square at the left of the line shall include a stylized representation of a pipeline...

18 CFR 375.103 - Official seal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... protruding from a solid color wing-like shape. Below the eagle shall appear five squares, arranged in a horizontal line. Each of these squares shall contain a circle representing an area of the Commission's responsibility. The first square at the left of the line shall include a stylized representation of a pipeline...

18 CFR 375.103 - Official seal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... protruding from a solid color wing-like shape. Below the eagle shall appear five squares, arranged in a horizontal line. Each of these squares shall contain a circle representing an area of the Commission's responsibility. The first square at the left of the line shall include a stylized representation of a pipeline...

18 CFR 375.103 - Official seal.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... protruding from a solid color wing-like shape. Below the eagle shall appear five squares, arranged in a horizontal line. Each of these squares shall contain a circle representing an area of the Commission's responsibility. The first square at the left of the line shall include a stylized representation of a pipeline...

Sensitization of cancer cells to radiation by selenadiazole derivatives by regulation of ROS-mediated DNA damage and ERK and AKT pathways

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Xie, Qiang; Wu Jing Zong Dui Hospital of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou; Zhou, Yangliang

2014-06-20

Highlights: • Selenadiazole derivatives could be used as an effective and low toxic sensitizer for radiotherapy. • Selenadiazole derivatives enhances radiation-induced growth inhibition on A375 cells through induction of G2/M arrest. • ROS-mediated signaling pathways play important roles in radiosensitization of selenadiazole derivatives. - Abstract: X-ray-based radiotherapy represents one of the most effective ways in treating human cancers. However, radioresistance and side effect remain as the most challenging issue. This study describes the design and application of novel selenadiazole derivatives as radiotherapy sensitizers to enhance X-ray-induced inhibitory effects on A375 human melanoma and Hela human cervical carcinoma cells. The resultsmore » showed that, pretreatment of the cells with selenadiazole derivatives dramatically enhance X-ray-induced growth inhibition and colony formation. Flow cytometry analysis indicates that the sensitization by selenadiazole derivatives was mainly caused by induction of G2/M cell cycle arrest. Results of Western blotting demonstrated that the combined treatment-induced A375 cells growth inhibition was achieved by triggering reactive oxygen species-mediated DNA damage involving inactivation of AKT and MAPKs. Further investigation revealed that selenadiazole derivative in combination with X-ray could synergistically inhibit the activity of thioredoxin reductase-1 in A375 cells. Taken together, these results suggest that selenadiazole derivatives can act as novel radiosensitizer with potential application in combating human cancers.« less

Mesenchymal stem cell and derived exosome as small RNA carrier and Immunomodulator to improve islet transplantation.

PubMed

Wen, Di; Peng, Yang; Liu, Di; Weizmann, Yossi; Mahato, Ram I

2016-09-28

Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and their exosomes can suppress immune reaction and deliver small RNAs. Thus, they may improve islet transplantation by delivering small RNAs for promoting islet function and inhibiting immune rejection. Here, we proposed an hBMSC and its exosome-based therapy to overcome immune rejection and poor islet function, both of which hinder the success of islet transplantation. We found overexpressed siFas and anti-miR-375 in plasmid encoding shFas and anti-miR-375 transfected hBMSC-derived exosomes, which silenced Fas and miR-375 of human islets and improved their viability and function against inflammatory cytokines. This plasmid transfected hBMSCs downregulated Fas and miR-375 of human islets in a humanized NOD scid gamma (NSG) mouse model, whose immune reaction was inhibited by injecting hBMSC and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) co-cultured exosomes. These exosomes suppressed immune reaction by inhibiting PBMC proliferation and enhancing regulatory T cell (Treg) function. Collectively, our studies elucidated the mechanisms of RNA delivery from hBMSCs to human islets and the immunosuppressive effect of hBMSC and peripheral blood mononuclear cell co-cultured exosomes for improving islet transplantation. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Pilot Study of 64Cu(I) for PET Imaging of Melanoma

DOE PAGES

Jiang, Lei; Tu, Yingfeng; Hu, Xiang; ...

2017-05-31

Currently, 64Cu(II) labeled tracers including 64CuCl 2 have been widely applied in the research of molecular imaging and therapy. Human copper transporter 1 (hCTR1) is the major high affinity copper influx transporter in mammalian cells, and specially responsible for the transportation of Cu(I) not Cu(II). Thus, we investigated the feasible application of 64Cu(I) for PET imaging. 64Cu(II) was reduced to 64Cu(I) with the existence of sodium L-ascorbate, DL-Dithiothreitol or cysteine. Cell uptake and efflux assay was investigated using B16F10 and A375 cell lines, respectively. Small animal PET and biodistribution studies were performed in both B16F10 and A375 tumor-bearing mice. Comparedmore » with 64Cu(II), 64Cu(I) exhibited higher cellular uptake by melanoma, which testified CTR1 specially influx of Cu(I). But, due to oxidation reaction in vivo, no significant difference between 64Cu(I) and 64Cu(II) was observed through PET images and biodistribution. In addition, radiation absorbed doses for major tissues of human were calculated based on the mouse biodistribution. Radiodosimetry calculations for 64/67Cu(I) and 64/67Cu(II) were similar, which suggested that although melanoma were with high radiation absorbed doses, high radioactivity accumulation by liver and kidney should be noticed for the further application. Thus, 64Cu(I) should be further studied to evaluate it as a PET imaging radiotracer.« less

Pilot Study of 64Cu(I) for PET Imaging of Melanoma

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jiang, Lei; Tu, Yingfeng; Hu, Xiang

Currently, 64Cu(II) labeled tracers including 64CuCl 2 have been widely applied in the research of molecular imaging and therapy. Human copper transporter 1 (hCTR1) is the major high affinity copper influx transporter in mammalian cells, and specially responsible for the transportation of Cu(I) not Cu(II). Thus, we investigated the feasible application of 64Cu(I) for PET imaging. 64Cu(II) was reduced to 64Cu(I) with the existence of sodium L-ascorbate, DL-Dithiothreitol or cysteine. Cell uptake and efflux assay was investigated using B16F10 and A375 cell lines, respectively. Small animal PET and biodistribution studies were performed in both B16F10 and A375 tumor-bearing mice. Comparedmore » with 64Cu(II), 64Cu(I) exhibited higher cellular uptake by melanoma, which testified CTR1 specially influx of Cu(I). But, due to oxidation reaction in vivo, no significant difference between 64Cu(I) and 64Cu(II) was observed through PET images and biodistribution. In addition, radiation absorbed doses for major tissues of human were calculated based on the mouse biodistribution. Radiodosimetry calculations for 64/67Cu(I) and 64/67Cu(II) were similar, which suggested that although melanoma were with high radiation absorbed doses, high radioactivity accumulation by liver and kidney should be noticed for the further application. Thus, 64Cu(I) should be further studied to evaluate it as a PET imaging radiotracer.« less

UVA Irradiation Enhances Brusatol-Mediated Inhibition of Melanoma Growth by Downregulation of the Nrf2-Mediated Antioxidant Response

PubMed Central

Wang, Mei; Shi, Guangwei; Bian, Chunxiang; Nisar, Muhammad Farrukh; Guo, Yingying; Wu, Yan; Li, Wei; Huang, Xiao; Jiang, Xuemei; Bartsch, Jörg W.

2018-01-01

Brusatol (BR) is a potent inhibitor of Nrf2, a transcription factor that is highly expressed in cancer tissues and confers chemoresistance. UVA-generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) can damage both normal and cancer cells and may be of potential use in phototherapy. In order to provide an alternative method to treat the aggressive melanoma, we sought to investigate whether low-dose UVA with BR is more effective in eliminating melanoma cells than the respective single treatments. We found that BR combined with UVA led to inhibition of A375 melanoma cell proliferation by cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase and triggers cell apoptosis. Furthermore, inhibition of Nrf2 expression attenuated colony formation and tumor development from A375 cells in heterotopic mouse models. In addition, cotreatment of UVA and BR partially suppressed Nrf2 and its downstream target genes such as HO-1 along with the PI3K/AKT pathway. We propose that cotreatment increased ROS-induced cell cycle arrest and cellular apoptosis and inhibits melanoma growth by regulating the AKT-Nrf2 pathway in A375 cells which offers a possible therapeutic intervention strategy for the treatment of human melanoma. PMID:29670684

DNA methylation and histone acetylation regulate the expression of MGMT and chemosensitivity to temozolomide in malignant melanoma cell lines.

PubMed

Chen, Ya-Ping; Hou, Xiao-Yang; Yang, Chun-Sheng; Jiang, Xiao-Xiao; Yang, Ming; Xu, Xi-Feng; Feng, Shou-Xin; Liu, Yan-Qun; Jiang, Guan

2016-08-01

Malignant melanoma is an aggressive, highly lethal dermatological malignancy. Chemoresistance and rapid metastasis limit the curative effect of multimodal therapies like surgery or chemotherapy. The suicide enzyme O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) removes adducts from the O6-position of guanine to repair DNA damage. High MGMT expression is associated with resistance to therapy in melanoma. However, it is unknown if MGMT is regulated by DNA methylation or histone acetylation in melanoma. We examined the effects of the DNA methylation inhibitor 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine and histone deacetylase inhibitor Trichostatin A alone or in combination on MGMT expression and promoter methylation and histone acetylation in A375, MV3, and M14 melanoma cells. This study demonstrates that MGMT expression, CpG island methylation, and histone acetylation vary between melanoma cell lines. Combined treatment with 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine and Trichostatin A led to reexpression of MGMT, indicating that DNA methylation and histone deacetylation are associated with silencing of MGMT in melanoma. This study provides information on the role of epigenetic modifications in malignant melanoma that may enable the development of new strategies for treating malignant melanoma.

EPR studies of free radicals in A-2058 human melanoma cells treated by valproic acid and 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin.

PubMed

Zdybel, Magdalena; Chodurek, Ewa; Pilawa, Barbara

2014-01-01

Free radicals in A-2058 human melanoma cells were studied by the use of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. The aim of this work was to determine the changes in relative free radical concentrations in tumor A-2058 cells after treatment by valproic acid (VPA) and 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin (DMC). The influences of VPA and DMC on free radicals in A-2058 cells were compared with those for human melanoma malignum A-375 and G-361 cells, which were tested by us earlier. Human malignant melanoma A-2058 cells were exposed to interactions with VPA, DMC, and both VPA and DMC. The tumor cells A-2058 were purchased from LGC Standards (Lomianki, Poland), and they were grown in the standard conditions: at 37°C and in an atmosphere containing 95% air and 5% CO2, in the Minimum Essential Medium Eagle (MEM, Sigma-Aldrich). The A-2058 cells were incubated with VPA (1 mM) and DMC (10 μM) for 4 days. The first-derivative EPR spectra of the control A-2058 cells, and the cells treated with VPA, DMC, and both VPA and DMC, were measured by the electron paramagnetic resonance spectrometer of Radiopan (Poznań, Poland) with microwaves from an X-band (9.3 GHz). The parameters of the EPR lines: amplitudes (A), integral intensities (I), line widths (ΔBpp), and g-factors, were analyzed. The changes of amplitudes and line widths with microwave power increasing from 2.2 to 70 mW were drawn evaluated, o-Semiquinone free radicals of melanin biopolymer are mainly responsible for the EPR lines of A-2058 melanoma malignum cells. The amounts of free radicals in A-2058 cells treated with VPA, and both VPA and DMC, were lower than in the untreated control cells. Application of the tested substances (VPA, and both VPA and DMC) as the antitumor compounds was discussed. DMC without VPA did not decrease free radicals concentration in A-2058 cells. The studies con-firmed that EPR spectroscopy may be used to examine interactions of free radicals with antitumor compounds.

Anacardic acid enhances the anticancer activity of liposomal mitoxantrone towards melanoma cell lines – in vitro studies

PubMed Central

Legut, Mateusz; Lipka, Dominik; Filipczak, Nina; Piwoni, Adriana; Kozubek, Arkadiusz; Gubernator, Jerzy

2014-01-01

This paper describes a novel formulation of antineoplastic drug: mitoxantrone loaded into liposomal carriers enriched with encapsulated anacardic acid in the liposomal bilayer using a vitamin C gradient. Anacardic acid is a potent epigenetic agent with anticancer activity. This is the first liposomal formulation to combine an actively encapsulated drug and anacardic acid. The liposomes were characterized in terms of basic parameters, such as size, zeta potential, optimal drug-to-lipid ratio, loading time and temperature, and stability at 4°C and in human plasma in vitro. The formulation was found to be stable, and the loading process was rapid and efficient (drug-to-lipid ratio of up to 0.3 with over 90% efficiency in 5 minutes). The cytotoxicity of these formulations was assessed using the human melanoma cell lines A375 and Hs294T and the normal human dermal fibroblast line. The results showed that anacardic acid and to a smaller extent vitamin C significantly increased the cytotoxicity of the drug towards melanoma compared to ammonium sulfate liposomes. On the other hand, vitamin C and anacardic acid both protected normal cells from damage caused by the drug. The formulation combining anacardic acid, vitamin C, and mitoxantrone showed promising results in terms of cytotoxicity and cytoprotection. Therefore, it has potential for anticancer treatment. PMID:24489469

Regulator of G protein signaling 4 inhibits human melanoma cells proliferation and invasion through the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway

PubMed Central

Xue, Xiaotong; Wang, Lihua; Meng, Xianguang; Jiao, Jing; Dang, Ningning

2017-01-01

Melanoma is a tumor produced by skin melanocytes, which has a high metastatic rate and poor prognosis. So far, plenty of work has been done on melanoma, but mechanisms underlying melanoma development have not been fully elucidated. Here we identified regulator of G protein signaling 4(RGS4) as novel therapeutic target for malignant melanoma and its regulating effect on melanoma. We found that endogenous RGS4 expression was much lower in melanoma tissues and cells. In A375 cell line with low endogenous RGS4 expression, the function of RGS4 was detected by up-regulation its expression with pcDNA3.1-RGS4 and knockdown its expression with siRNA. Our results showed that RGS4 could significantly reduce the proliferation, migration and invasion of melanoma cells. RGS4 is an important regulator for the apoptosis of melanocyte, and the apoptosis rate is significantly decreased in low RGS4 enviroment. RGS4 induced non-activation of PI3K/AKT pathway, resulting in decreased expression of E2F1 and Cyclin D1, thus constraining cell proliferation and invasion. These results were further confirmed in M14 cell lines. Collectively, our findings show that RGS4 plays an important role in multiple cellular functions of melanoma development and is valuable to be a therapeutic target. PMID:29108247

Protection by polyphenol extract from olive stones against apoptosis produced by oxidative stress in human neuroblastoma cells

PubMed

Cortés-Castell, Ernesto; Veciana-Galindo, Carmen; Torró-Montell, Luis; Palazón-Bru, Antonio; Sirvent-Segura, Elia; Gil-Guillén, Vicente; Rizo-Baeza, Mercedes

2016-02-16

We evaluated the protective activity of an extract from a by-product such as olive stones, through its ability to inhibit H202 induced apoptosis in the SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell line. To such end, 20,000 cells/well were cultivated and differentiation with retinoic acid was initiated. Once the cells were differentiated, apoptosis was induced with and without H2O2 extract. Finally, cDNA extraction was performed, and pro-apoptotic genes Bax and anti-apoptotic genes Bcl-2 were analyzed. Quantification of the gene expression was performed using the GAPDH gene marker. Cell viability with the extract is 97.6% (SD 5.7) with 10 mg/l and 62.8% (SD 1.2) to 50 mg/l, using 10 mg/l for the biomarker assay. The retinoic acid differentiated SH-S cell line (10 μM) shows a clear apoptosis when treated with H2O2 150 μM, with a Bax/Bcl-2 ratio of 3.75 (SD 0.80) in contrast to the differentiated control cells subjected to H2O2 and with extract, which have the same ratio of 1.02 (SD 0.01-0.03). The olive stone extract shows anti-apoptotic activity in the provoked cell death of SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells in their normal state, defending them from oxidative stress which produces a significant increase in the apoptotic gene ratio in contrast to anti-apoptotic genes (Bax/Bcl-2).

Hibiscus sabdariffa leaf polyphenolic extract induces human melanoma cell death, apoptosis, and autophagy.

PubMed

Chiu, Chun-Tang; Hsuan, Shu-Wen; Lin, Hui-Hsuan; Hsu, Cheng-Chin; Chou, Fen-Pi; Chen, Jing-Hsien

2015-03-01

Melanoma is the least common but most fatal form of skin cancer. Previous studies have indicated that an aqueous extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa leaves possess hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant effects. In this study, we want to investigate the anticancer activity of Hibiscus leaf polyphenolic (HLP) extract in melanoma cells. First, HLP was exhibited to be rich in epicatechin gallate (ECG) and other polyphenols. Apoptotic and autophagic activities of HLP and ECG were further evaluated by DAPI stain, cell-cycle analysis, and acidic vascular organelle (AVO) stain. Our results revealed that both HLP and ECG induced the caspases cleavages, Bcl-2 family proteins regulation, and Fas/FasL activation in A375 cells. In addition, we also revealed that the cells presented AVO-positive after HLP treatments. HLP could increase the expressions of autophagy-related proteins autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5), Beclin1, and light chain 3-II (LC3-II), and induce autophagic cell death in A375 cells. These data indicated that the anticancer effect of HLP, partly contributed by ECG, in A375 cells. HLP potentially could be developed as an antimelanoma agent. © 2015 Institute of Food Technologists®

Analysis of the genomic response of human prostate cancer cells to histone deacetylase inhibitors.

PubMed

Kortenhorst, Madeleine S Q; Wissing, Michel D; Rodríguez, Ronald; Kachhap, Sushant K; Jans, Judith J M; Van der Groep, Petra; Verheul, Henk M W; Gupta, Anuj; Aiyetan, Paul O; van der Wall, Elsken; Carducci, Michael A; Van Diest, Paul J; Marchionni, Luigi

2013-09-01

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) have emerged as important targets for cancer treatment. HDAC-inhibitors (HDACis) are well tolerated in patients and have been approved for the treatment of patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). To improve the clinical benefit of HDACis in solid tumors, combination strategies with HDACis could be employed. In this study, we applied Analysis of Functional Annotation (AFA) to provide a comprehensive list of genes and pathways affected upon HDACi-treatment in prostate cancer cells. This approach provides an unbiased and objective approach to high throughput data mining. By performing AFA on gene expression data from prostate cancer cell lines DU-145 (an HDACi-sensitive cell line) and PC3 (a relatively HDACi-resistant cell line) treated with HDACis valproic acid or vorinostat, we identified biological processes that are affected by HDACis and are therefore potential treatment targets for combination therapy. Our analysis revealed that HDAC-inhibition resulted among others in upregulation of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes and deregulation of the mitotic spindle checkpoint by downregulation of genes involved in mitosis. These findings were confirmed by AFA on publicly available data sets from HDACi-treated prostate cancer cells. In total, we analyzed 375 microarrays with HDACi treated and non-treated (control) prostate cancer cells. All results from this extensive analysis are provided as an online research source (available at the journal's website and at http://luigimarchionni.org/HDACIs.html). By publishing this data, we aim to enhance our understanding of the cellular changes after HDAC-inhibition, and to identify novel potential combination strategies with HDACis for the treatment of prostate cancer patients.

Analysis of the genomic response of human prostate cancer cells to histone deacetylase inhibitors

PubMed Central

Kortenhorst, Madeleine SQ; Wissing, Michel D; Rodriguez, Ronald; Kachhap, Sushant K; Jans, Judith JM; Van der Groep, Petra; Verheul, Henk MW; Gupta, Anuj; Aiyetan, Paul O; van der Wall, Elsken; Carducci, Michael A; Van Diest, Paul J; Marchionni, Luigi

2013-01-01

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) have emerged as important targets for cancer treatment. HDAC-inhibitors (HDACis) are well tolerated in patients and have been approved for the treatment of patients with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL). To improve the clinical benefit of HDACis in solid tumors, combination strategies with HDACis could be employed. In this study, we applied Analysis of Functional Annotation (AFA) to provide a comprehensive list of genes and pathways affected upon HDACi-treatment in prostate cancer cells. This approach provides an unbiased and objective approach to high throughput data mining. By performing AFA on gene expression data from prostate cancer cell lines DU-145 (an HDACi-sensitive cell line) and PC3 (a relatively HDACi-resistant cell line) treated with HDACis valproic acid or vorinostat, we identified biological processes that are affected by HDACis and are therefore potential treatment targets for combination therapy. Our analysis revealed that HDAC-inhibition resulted among others in upregulation of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes and deregulation of the mitotic spindle checkpoint by downregulation of genes involved in mitosis. These findings were confirmed by AFA on publicly available data sets from HDACi-treated prostate cancer cells. In total, we analyzed 375 microarrays with HDACi treated and non-treated (control) prostate cancer cells. All results from this extensive analysis are provided as an online research source (available at the journal’s website and at http://luigimarchionni.org/HDACIs.html). By publishing this data, we aim to enhance our understanding of the cellular changes after HDAC-inhibition, and to identify novel potential combination strategies with HDACis for the treatment of prostate cancer patients. PMID:23880963

Nitric oxide synthetic capacity in relation to dialysate temperature.

PubMed

Beerenhout, Charles H; Noris, Marina; Kooman, Jeroen P; Porrati, Francesca; Binda, Elena; Morigi, Marina; Bekers, Otto; van der Sande, Frank M; Todeschini, Marta; Macconi, Daniela; Leunissen, Karel M L; Remuzzi, Giuseppe

2004-01-01

During hemodialysis, vascular reactivity is impaired, which can be corrected by lowering dialysate temperature. It has also been shown that nitric oxide (NO) is related to intradialytic hypotension. As NO synthesis may be temperature-dependent, this study addressed the influence of dialysate temperature on the NO synthetic capacity of plasma. NO synthetic capacity was studied during hemodialysis with a dialysate temperature of 37.5 degrees C (dialysis-37.5 degrees C) and programmed extracorporeal blood cooling (cool dialysis; Blood Temperature Monitor; Fresenius C) in 12 stable patients. NO synthetic capacity was assessed ex vivo by [3H]L-citrulline formation from [3H]L-arginine in cultured endothelial cells after incubation with plasma samples obtained during the respective sessions. Core temperature decreased (-0.32 +/- 0.10 degrees C) and energy transfer rate was significantly lower (-27.5 +/- 2.8 W; p < 0.05) during cool dialysis compared to dialysis-37.5 degrees C (0.19 +/- 0.06 degrees C and -0.8 +/- 1.2 W respectively; p < 0.05). Systolic blood pressure decreased during dialysis-37.5 degrees C (-19 +/- 4 mm Hg; p < 0.05), but not during cool dialysis (-6 +/- 5 mm Hg). NO synthetic capacity increased during dialysis-37.5 degrees C (55.5 +/- 9.3 to 73.5 +/- 10.2 pmol/10(5) cells; p < 0.05), in contrast to cool dialysis (67.3 +/- 11.1 to 66.2 +/- 10.8 pmol/10(5) cells). The stimulatory effect of uremic plasma on endothelial NO synthesis was augmented during dialysis-37.5 degrees C but not during cool dialysis. Copyright 2004 S. Karger AG, Basel

Knockdown of long non-coding RNA MAP3K20 antisense RNA 1 inhibits gastric cancer growth through epigenetically regulating miR-375.

PubMed

Quan, Yongsheng; Zhang, Yan; Lin, Wei; Shen, Zhaohua; Wu, Shuai; Zhu, Changxin; Wang, Xiaoyan

2018-03-04

Emerging evidence has demonstrated that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a critical role in tumorigenesis of gastric cancer. LncRNA MAP3K20 antisense RNA 1 (MLK7-AS1) has been identified as one of gastric cancer-specific lncRNAs. However, its precise role in gastric cancer remains unknown. In this study, we found that lncRNA MLK7-AS1 was significantly increased in gastric cancer tissues compared with in adjacent tissues. Gastric cancer patients with high MLK7-AS1 expression had a shorter survival and poorer prognosis. By loss-function assay, we demonstrated that knockdown of MLK7-AS1 inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in HGC27and MKN-45 cells. Furthermore, we identified miR-375 as a target of MLK7-AS1. MLK7-AS1 interacted with Dnmt1 and recruited it to miR-375 promotor, hyper-methylating miR-375 promotor and repressing miR-375 expression. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that knockdown of MLK7-AS1 by siRNA inhibits gastric cancer growth by epigenetically regulating miR-375. Thus, MLK7-AS1 may be a useful prognostic marker and therapeutic target for gastric cancer patients. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Subcellular storage compartments of bacteriopheophorbide sensitizers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moser, Joerg G.; Dembeck, U.; Hubert, M.; Spengler, Bernhard; Bayer, Rainer; Wagner, Birgit

1994-03-01

Fluorescence colocalization with the Golgi specific stain, NBD-ceramide, and the mitochondrial localizing stain, Rhodamine 123, confirmed the earlier assumption that the Golgi apparatus is one of the prominent storage compartments for bacteriopheophorbide esters in OAT 75 SCLC cells and several amelanotic melanoma cell lines (A375, Melur SP18, SkAMel 25). Furthermore, a diffuse staining of mitochondria, of non-structured cytoplasm, and an additional storage in melanine vesicles of the amelanotic melanoma cells suggests further storage compartments with quantitatively different contributions to the phototoxicity of bacteriochlorophyll-derived photosensitizers. Independent observations of early phototoxic effects on microfilamentous networks, enzymatic activities (succinate dehydrogenase, lactate dehydrogenase), and redistribution phenomena following primary uptake of the sensitizers let us assume that only a part of the 108 molecules taken up by a cell contribute directly to phototoxicity. Thus it may be asked if a proper subcellular positioning of only a few sensitizer molecules may have similar phototoxic effects as the huge amounts stored at apparently ineffective sites.

Induction of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 and interleukin-10 by TGFbeta1 in melanoma enhances tumor infiltration and immunosuppression.

PubMed

Díaz-Valdés, Nancy; Basagoiti, María; Dotor, Javier; Aranda, Fernando; Monreal, Iñaki; Riezu-Boj, José Ignacio; Borrás-Cuesta, Francisco; Sarobe, Pablo; Feijoó, Esperanza

2011-02-01

Melanoma progression is associated with the expression of different growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines. Because TGFβ1 is a pleiotropic cytokine involved not only in physiologic processes but also in cancer development, we analyzed in A375 human melanoma cells, the effect of TGFβ1 on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) expression, two known factors responsible for melanoma progression. TGFβ1 increased the expression of MCP-1 and IL-10 in A375 cells, an effect mediated by the cross-talk between Smad, PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase)/AKT, and BRAF-MAPK (mitogen activated protein kinase) signaling pathways. Supernatants from TGFβ1-treated A375 cells enhanced MCP-1-dependent migration of monocytes, which, in turn, expressed high levels of TGF,β1, bFGF, and VEGF mRNA. Moreover, these supernatants also inhibited functional properties of dendritic cells through IL-10-dependent mechanisms. When using in vitro, the TGFβ1-blocking peptide P144, TGFβ1-dependent Smad3 phosphorylation, and expression of MCP-1 and IL-10 were inhibited. In vivo, treatment of A375 tumor-bearing athymic mice with P144 significantly reduced tumor growth, associated with a lower macrophage infiltrate and decreased intratumor MCP-1 and VEGF levels, as well as angiogenesis. Finally, in C57BL/6 mice with B16-OVA melanoma tumors, when administered with immunotherapy, P144 decreased tumor growth and intratumor IL-10 levels, linked to enhanced activation of dendritic cells and natural killer cells, as well as anti-OVA T-cell responses. These results show new effects of TGFβ1 on melanoma cells, which promote tumor progression and immunosuppression, strongly reinforcing the relevance of this cytokine as a molecular target in melanoma.

Elucidation of the critical epitope of an anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody EMab-134.

PubMed

Kaneko, Mika K; Yamada, Shinji; Itai, Shunsuke; Chang, Yao-Wen; Nakamura, Takuro; Yanaka, Miyuki; Kato, Yukinari

2018-07-01

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a type-1 transmembrane receptor tyrosine kinase, which activates the downstream signaling cascades in many tumors, such as oral and lung cancers. We previously developed EMab-134, a novel anti-EGFR monoclonal antibody (mAb), which reacts with endogenous EGFR-expressing cancer cell lines and normal cells independent of glycosylation in Western blotting, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemical analysis. EMab-134 showed very high sensitivity (94.7%) to oral squamous cell carcinomas in immunohistochemical analysis. In this study, we performed enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), flow cytometry, and immunohistochemical analysis to determine the epitope of EMab-134. A blocking peptide (375-394 amino acids of EGFR) neutralized the EMab-134 reaction against oral cancer cells in flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. The minimum epitope of EMab-134 was found to be the 377- RGDSFTHTPP -386 sequence. Our findings can be applied for the production of more functional anti-EGFR mAbs that in turn can be used for antitumor treatments.

Photosensitized rose Bengal-induced phototoxicity on human melanoma cell line under natural sunlight exposure.

PubMed

Srivastav, Ajeet K; Mujtaba, Syed Faiz; Dwivedi, Ashish; Amar, Saroj K; Goyal, Shruti; Verma, Ankit; Kushwaha, Hari N; Chaturvedi, Rajnish K; Ray, Ratan Singh

2016-03-01

Rose Bengal (RB) is an anionic water-soluble xanthene dye, which used for many years to assess eye cornea and conjunctiva damage. RB showed strong absorption maxima (λmax) under visible light followed by UV-B and UV-A. RB under sunlight exposure showed a time-dependent photodegradation. Our results show that photosensitized RB generates (1)O2 via Type-II photodynamic pathway and induced DNA damage under sunlight/UV-R exposure. 2'dGuO degradation, micronuclei formation, and single- and double-strand breakage were the outcome of photogenotoxicity caused by RB. Quenching studies with NaN3 advocate the involvement of (1)O2 in RB photogenotoxicity. RB induced linoleic acid photoperoxidation, which was parallel to (1)O2-mediated DNA damage. Oxidative stress in A375 cell line (human melanoma cell line) was detected through DCF-DA assay. Photosensitized RB decreased maximum cellular viability under sunlight followed by UV-B and UV-A exposures. Apoptosis was detected as a pattern of cell death through the increased of caspase-3 activity, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, and PS translocation through inner to outer plasma membrane. Increased cytosolic levels of Bax also advocate the apoptotic cell death. We propose a p53-mediated apoptosis via increased expression of Bax gene and protein. Thus, the exact mechanism behind RB phototoxicity was the involvement of (1)O2, which induced oxidative stress-mediated DNA and membrane damage, finally apoptotic cell death under natural sunlight exposure. The study suggests that after the use of RB, sunlight exposure may avoid to prevent from its harmful effects. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

ACY-1215 accelerates vemurafenib induced cell death of BRAF-mutant melanoma cells via induction of ER stress and inhibition of ERK activation.

PubMed

Peng, Ueihuei; Wang, Zhihao; Pei, Sa; Ou, Yunchao; Hu, Pengchao; Liu, Wanhong; Song, Jiquan

2017-02-01

BRAFV600E mutation is found in ~50% of melanoma patients and BRAFV600E kinase activity inhibitor, vemurafenib, has achieved a remarkable clinical response rate. However, most patients treated with vemurafenib eventually develop resistance. Overcoming primary and secondary resistance to selective BRAF inhibitors remains one of the most critically compelling challenges for these patients. HDAC6 has been shown to confer resistance to chemotherapy in several types of cancer. Few studies focused on the role of HDAC6 in vemurafenib resistance. Here we showed that overexpression of HDAC6 confers resistance to vemurafenib in BRAF-mutant A375 cells. ACY-1215, a selective HDAC6 inhibitor, inhibits the proliferation and induces the apoptosis of A375 cells. Moreover, ACY-1215 sensitizes A375 cells to vemurafenib induced cell proliferation inhibition and apoptosis induction, which occur partly through induction of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and inactivation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Taken together, our results suggest that the inhibition of HDAC6 may be a promising strategy for the treatment of melanoma and overcoming resistance to vemurafenib.

Curcumin loaded chitin nanogels for skin cancer treatment via the transdermal route

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mangalathillam, Sabitha; Rejinold, N. Sanoj; Nair, Amrita; Lakshmanan, Vinoth-Kumar; Nair, Shantikumar V.; Jayakumar, Rangasamy

2011-12-01

In this study, curcumin loaded chitin nanogels (CCNGs) were developed using biocompatible and biodegradable chitin with an anticancer curcumin drug. Chitin, as well as curcumin, is insoluble in water. However, the developed CCNGs form a very good and stable dispersion in water. The CCNGs were analyzed by DLS, SEM and FTIR and showed spherical particles in a size range of 70-80 nm. The CCNGs showed higher release at acidic pH compared to neutral pH. The cytotoxicity of the nanogels were analyzed on human dermal fibroblast cells (HDF) and A375 (human melanoma) cell lines and the results show that CCNGs have specific toxicity on melanoma in a concentration range of 0.1-1.0 mg mL-1, but less toxicity towards HDF cells. The confocal analysis confirmed the uptake of CCNGs by A375. The apoptotic effect of CCNGs was analyzed by a flow-cytometric assay and the results indicate that CCNGs at the higher concentration of the cytotoxic range showed comparable apoptosis as the control curcumin, in which there was negligible apoptosis induced by the control chitin nanogels. The CCNGs showed a 4-fold increase in steady state transdermal flux of curcumin as compared to that of control curcumin solution. The histopathology studies of the porcine skin samples treated with the prepared materials showed loosening of the horny layer of the epidermis, facilitating penetration with no observed signs of inflammation. These results suggest that the formulated CCNGs offer specific advantage for the treatment of melanoma, the most common and serious type of skin cancer, by effective transdermal penetration.

Curcumin loaded chitin nanogels for skin cancer treatment via the transdermal route.

PubMed

Mangalathillam, Sabitha; Rejinold, N Sanoj; Nair, Amrita; Lakshmanan, Vinoth-Kumar; Nair, Shantikumar V; Jayakumar, Rangasamy

2012-01-07

In this study, curcumin loaded chitin nanogels (CCNGs) were developed using biocompatible and biodegradable chitin with an anticancer curcumin drug. Chitin, as well as curcumin, is insoluble in water. However, the developed CCNGs form a very good and stable dispersion in water. The CCNGs were analyzed by DLS, SEM and FTIR and showed spherical particles in a size range of 70-80 nm. The CCNGs showed higher release at acidic pH compared to neutral pH. The cytotoxicity of the nanogels were analyzed on human dermal fibroblast cells (HDF) and A375 (human melanoma) cell lines and the results show that CCNGs have specific toxicity on melanoma in a concentration range of 0.1-1.0 mg mL(-1), but less toxicity towards HDF cells. The confocal analysis confirmed the uptake of CCNGs by A375. The apoptotic effect of CCNGs was analyzed by a flow-cytometric assay and the results indicate that CCNGs at the higher concentration of the cytotoxic range showed comparable apoptosis as the control curcumin, in which there was negligible apoptosis induced by the control chitin nanogels. The CCNGs showed a 4-fold increase in steady state transdermal flux of curcumin as compared to that of control curcumin solution. The histopathology studies of the porcine skin samples treated with the prepared materials showed loosening of the horny layer of the epidermis, facilitating penetration with no observed signs of inflammation. These results suggest that the formulated CCNGs offer specific advantage for the treatment of melanoma, the most common and serious type of skin cancer, by effective transdermal penetration.

Genomic loss of microRNA-101 leads to overexpression of histone methyltransferase EZH2 in cancer.

PubMed

Varambally, Sooryanarayana; Cao, Qi; Mani, Ram-Shankar; Shankar, Sunita; Wang, Xiaosong; Ateeq, Bushra; Laxman, Bharathi; Cao, Xuhong; Jing, Xiaojun; Ramnarayanan, Kalpana; Brenner, J Chad; Yu, Jindan; Kim, Jung H; Han, Bo; Tan, Patrick; Kumar-Sinha, Chandan; Lonigro, Robert J; Palanisamy, Nallasivam; Maher, Christopher A; Chinnaiyan, Arul M

2008-12-12

Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is a mammalian histone methyltransferase that contributes to the epigenetic silencing of target genes and regulates the survival and metastasis of cancer cells. EZH2 is overexpressed in aggressive solid tumors by mechanisms that remain unclear. Here we show that the expression and function of EZH2 in cancer cell lines are inhibited by microRNA-101 (miR-101). Analysis of human prostate tumors revealed that miR-101 expression decreases during cancer progression, paralleling an increase in EZH2 expression. One or both of the two genomic loci encoding miR-101 were somatically lost in 37.5% of clinically localized prostate cancer cells (6 of 16) and 66.7% of metastatic disease cells (22 of 33). We propose that the genomic loss of miR-101 in cancer leads to overexpression of EZH2 and concomitant dysregulation of epigenetic pathways, resulting in cancer progression.

Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cell-derived exosomes stimulate dendrite-like outgrowths and modify the differentiation of A375 melanoma cells.

PubMed

Park, Seyeon; Ahn, Eun Sook; Kim, Yunjoo

2015-04-01

The identification of small vesicles released by many cell types as tools of intercellular communication is proposed. Here, we identify SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma-derived exosomes comprised of major histocompatibility complex II (MHC II), Hsp90 and flotillin-1. Our data also suggest that, when applied extracellularly, exosomes released from neuronal cells stimulate dendrite-like outgrowth and melanogenesis of A375 melanoma cells through the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAP kinase), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1 (ERK1) activation. These results suggest a modification of differentiation of melanocyte by the treatment of neuronal cell exosomes. Since exosomes from neuronal cells have the capacity to affect melanoma cells, they could be generally implicated in intercellular communication between different types of cells. © 2014 International Federation for Cell Biology.

Long-Term Persistence of Cell-Mediated and Humoral Responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 Influenza Virus Vaccines and the Role of the AS03 Adjuvant System in Adults during Two Randomized Controlled Trials

PubMed Central

Clément, Frédéric; Willekens, Julie; Dewé, Walthère; Walravens, Karl; Vaughn, David W.; Leroux-Roels, Geert

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT We investigated the role of AS03A (here AS03), an α-tocopherol oil-in-water emulsion-based adjuvant system, on the long-term persistence of humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 influenza vaccines. In two studies, a total of 261 healthy adults (≤60 years old) were randomized to receive two doses of AS03-adjuvanted vaccine containing 3.75 μg of hemagglutinin (HA) or nonadjuvanted vaccine containing 15 μg of hemagglutinin (in study A) or 3.75 μg of hemagglutinin (in study B) 21 days apart. Hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody, memory B-cell, and CD4+/CD8+ T-cell responses were characterized up to 1 year following dose 1. We also assessed the effects of age and seasonal influenza vaccination history. AS03-adjuvanted (3.75 μg HA) vaccine and nonadjuvanted vaccine at 15 μg but not at 3.75 μg HA elicited HI antibody responses persisting at levels that continued to meet European licensure criteria through month 12. At month 12, the geometric mean titer for AS03-adjuvanted vaccine was similar to that for nonadjuvanted (15-μg) vaccine in study A (1:86 and 1:88, respectively) and higher than that for nonadjuvanted (3.75-μg) vaccine in study B (1:77 and 1:35, respectively). A(H1N1)pdm09-specific CD4+ T-cell and B-cell responses were stronger in AS03-adjuvanted groups and persisted only in these groups for 12 months at levels exceeding prevaccination frequencies. Advancing age and a seasonal vaccination history tended to reduce HI antibody and memory B-cell responses and, albeit less consistently, CD4+ T-cell responses. Thus, AS03 seemed to enhance the persistence of humoral and cell-mediated responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 vaccine, allowing for antigen sparing and mitigating potential negative effects of age and previous seasonal vaccination. (These studies have been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration no. NCT00968539 and NCT00989287.) PMID:28446441

Long-Term Persistence of Cell-Mediated and Humoral Responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 Influenza Virus Vaccines and the Role of the AS03 Adjuvant System in Adults during Two Randomized Controlled Trials.

PubMed

van der Most, Robbert G; Clément, Frédéric; Willekens, Julie; Dewé, Walthère; Walravens, Karl; Vaughn, David W; Leroux-Roels, Geert

2017-06-01

We investigated the role of AS03 A (here AS03), an α-tocopherol oil-in-water emulsion-based adjuvant system, on the long-term persistence of humoral and cell-mediated immune responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 influenza vaccines. In two studies, a total of 261 healthy adults (≤60 years old) were randomized to receive two doses of AS03-adjuvanted vaccine containing 3.75 μg of hemagglutinin (HA) or nonadjuvanted vaccine containing 15 μg of hemagglutinin (in study A) or 3.75 μg of hemagglutinin (in study B) 21 days apart. Hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibody, memory B-cell, and CD4 + /CD8 + T-cell responses were characterized up to 1 year following dose 1. We also assessed the effects of age and seasonal influenza vaccination history. AS03-adjuvanted (3.75 μg HA) vaccine and nonadjuvanted vaccine at 15 μg but not at 3.75 μg HA elicited HI antibody responses persisting at levels that continued to meet European licensure criteria through month 12. At month 12, the geometric mean titer for AS03-adjuvanted vaccine was similar to that for nonadjuvanted (15-μg) vaccine in study A (1:86 and 1:88, respectively) and higher than that for nonadjuvanted (3.75-μg) vaccine in study B (1:77 and 1:35, respectively). A(H1N1)pdm09-specific CD4 + T-cell and B-cell responses were stronger in AS03-adjuvanted groups and persisted only in these groups for 12 months at levels exceeding prevaccination frequencies. Advancing age and a seasonal vaccination history tended to reduce HI antibody and memory B-cell responses and, albeit less consistently, CD4 + T-cell responses. Thus, AS03 seemed to enhance the persistence of humoral and cell-mediated responses to A(H1N1)pdm09 vaccine, allowing for antigen sparing and mitigating potential negative effects of age and previous seasonal vaccination. (These studies have been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under registration no. NCT00968539 and NCT00989287.). Copyright © 2017 van der Most et al.

Blockade of GpIIb/IIIa inhibits the release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) from tumor cell-activated platelets and experimental metastasis.

PubMed

Amirkhosravi, A; Amaya, M; Siddiqui, F; Biggerstaff, J P; Meyer, T V; Francis, J L

1999-01-01

Evidence that platelets play a role in tumor metastasis includes the observation of circulating tumor cell-platelet aggregates and the anti-metastatic effect of thrombocytopenia and anti-platelet drugs. Platelets have recently been shown to contain vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) which is released during clotting. We therefore studied the effects of (1) tumor cell-platelet adherence and tumor cell TF activity on platelet VEGF release; and (2) the effects of GpIIb/IIIa blockade on tumor cell-induced platelet VEGF release, tumor cell-induced thrombocytopenia and experimental metastasis. Adherent A375 human melanoma cells (TF+) and KG1 myeloid leukemia (TF-) cells were cultured in RPMI containing 10% fetal bovine serum. Platelet-rich plasma was obtained from normal citrated whole blood and the presence of VEGF (34 and 44 kDa isoforms) confirmed by immunoblotting. Platelet-rich plasma with or without anti-GpIIb/IIIa (Abciximab) was added to A375 monolayers and supernatant VEGF measured by ELISA. Tumor cell-induced platelet activation and release were determined by CD62P expression and serotonin release respectively. In vitro, tumor cell-platelet adherence was evaluated by flow cytometry. In vivo, thrombocytopenia and lung seeding were assessed 30 min and 18 days, respectively, after i.v. injection of Lewis Lung carcinoma (LL2) cells into control or murine 7E3 F(ab')(2) (6 mg/ kg) athymic rats. Maximal in vitro platelet activation (72% serotonin release) occurred 30 min after adding platelets to tumor cells. At this time, 87% of the A375 cells had adhered to platelets. Abciximab significantly (P<0.05) reduced platelet adherence to tumor cells as evidenced by flow cytometry. Incubation of A375 cells with platelets induced VEGF release in a time-dependent manner. This release was significantly inhibited by Abciximab (81% at 30 min; P<0.05). In the presence of fibrinogen and FII, VEGF release induced by A375 (TF+) cells was significantly higher than that induced by KG1 (TF-) cells (105.5+/-24 vs. 42+/-7 pg/ml; P<0.001). Omitting fibrinogen or FII from the reaction mixture markedly decreased VEGF release. In vivo, GpIIb/IIIa blockade with murine 7E3 F(ab')(2) reduced LL2 tumor cell-induced thrombocytopenia by 90% (P<0.001) and lung seeding by 82% (P<0.05). We conclude that TF-bearing tumor cells can activate platelets largely via thrombin generation, and that such activation is associated with release of VEGF. This may enhance metastasis, possibly by increasing extravasation at points of adhesion to vascular endothelium.

A ‘synthetic-sickness’ screen for senescence re-engagement targets in mutant cancer backgrounds

PubMed Central

Godwin, Lauren S.; Bilsland, Alan E.; Stevenson, Katrina H.; Moore, Jon D.; Wiggins, Ceri M.; Collinson, Rebecca S.; Mudd, Clare; Sadaie, Mahito; Bennett, Dorothy C.; Torrance, Christopher J.; Keith, W. Nicol

2017-01-01

Senescence is a universal barrier to immortalisation and tumorigenesis. As such, interest in the use of senescence-induction in a therapeutic context has been gaining momentum in the past few years; however, senescence and immortalisation remain underserved areas for drug discovery owing to a lack of robust senescence inducing agents and an incomplete understanding of the signalling events underlying this complex process. In order to address this issue we undertook a large-scale morphological siRNA screen for inducers of senescence phenotypes in the human melanoma cell line A375P. Following rescreen and validation in a second cancer cell line, HCT116 colorectal carcinoma, a panel of 16 of the most robust hits were selected for further validation based on significance and the potential to be targeted by drug-like molecules. Using secondary assays for detection of senescence biomarkers p21, 53BP1 and senescence associated beta-galactosidase (SAβGal) in a panel of HCT116 cell lines carrying cancer-relevant mutations, we show that partial senescence phenotypes can be induced to varying degrees in a context dependent manner, even in the absence of p21 or p53 expression. However, proliferation arrest varied among genetic backgrounds with predominantly toxic effects in p21 null cells, while cells lacking PI3K mutation failed to arrest. Furthermore, we show that the oncogene ECT2 induces partial senescence phenotypes in all mutant backgrounds tested, demonstrating a dependence on activating KRASG13D for growth suppression and a complete senescence response. These results suggest a potential mechanism to target mutant KRAS signalling through ECT2 in cancers that are reliant on activating KRAS mutations and remain refractory to current treatments. PMID:28806777

41 CFR 102-75.375 - What happens once a State, or political subdivision, certifies that it needs a surplus power...

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... State, or political subdivision, certifies that it needs a surplus power transmission line and the right... political subdivision, certifies that it needs a surplus power transmission line and the right-of-way... right-of-way, the disposal agency may sell the property to the state, or political subdivision thereof...

The experimental chemotherapeutic N6-furfuryladenosine (kinetin-riboside) induces rapid ATP depletion, genotoxic stress, and CDKN1A (p21) upregulation in human cancer cell lines

PubMed Central

Cabello, Christopher M.; Bair, Warner B.; Ley, Stephanie; Lamore, Sarah D.; Azimian, Sara; Wondrak, Georg T.

2008-01-01

Cytokinins and cytokinin nucleosides are purine derivatives with potential anticancer activity. N6-furfuryladenosine (FAdo, kinetin-riboside) displays antiproliferative and apoptogenic activity against various human cancer cell lines, and FAdo has recently been shown to suppress tumor growth in murine xenograft models of human leukemia and melanoma. In this study, FAdo-induced genotoxicity, stress response gene expression, and cellular ATP depletion were examined as early molecular consequences of FAdo-exposure in MiaPaCa-2 pancreas carcinoma, A375 melanoma, and other human cancer cell lines. FAdo, but not adenosine or N6-furfuryladenine, displayed potent antiproliferative activity that was also observed in human primary fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Remarkably, massive ATP depletion and induction of genotoxic stress as assessed by the alkaline comet assay occurred within 60 to 180 minutes of exposure to low micromolar concentrations of FAdo. This was followed by rapid upregulation of CDKN1A and other DNA damage/stress response genes (HMOX1, DDIT3, GADD45A) as revealed by expression array and Western analysis. Pharmacological and siRNA-based genetic inhibition of adenosine kinase suppressed FAdo cytotoxicity and also prevented ATP-depletion and p21-upregulation suggesting the importance of bioconversion of FAdo into the nucleotide form required for drug action. Taken together our data suggest that early induction of genotoxicity and energy crisis are important causative factors involved in FAdo cytotoxicity. PMID:19186174

Growth of various cell types in the presence of lactic and glycolic acids: the adverse effect of glycolic acid released from PLAGA copolymer on keratinocyte proliferation.

PubMed

Garric, Xavier; Molès, Jean-Pierre; Garreau, Henri; Braud, Christian; Guilhou, Jean-Jacques; Vert, Michel

2002-01-01

Poly(alpha-hydroxy-acid)s derived from lactic acid (LA) and glycolic acid (GA) are bioresorbable polymers that are currently used in human surgery and in pharmacology to make temporary therapeutic devices. Nowadays, increasing attention is paid to these polymers in the field of tissue engineering. However, the literature shows that a large number of factors can affect many of their properties and the responses of biological systems. As part of our investigation of the biocompatibility of degradable aliphatic polyesters, the effects of LA and GA on the proliferation of various cells under in vitro cell culture conditions were studied. The release of LA and GA from films made of a copolymer synthesized by the zinc lactate method and composed of 37.5% L-lactyl, 37.5% D-lactyl, and 25% glycolyl repeating units was first investigated over a period of 30 days under abiotic conditions in a cell culture medium in order to identify a range of acid concentrations consistent with releases to be expected in real cell cultures. Four cell lines, namely 3T3-J2, C3H10(1/2), A431, and HaCat, and three primary cell cultures, namely rat endothelial cells, rat smooth muscle cells, and human dermal fibroblasts, were then allowed to grow in the presence of LA and GA at various concentrations taken within the selected 10-1000 mg/cm3 range. Little or no effect was observed on the proliferation of all cells except human keratinocytes, whose growth was dramatically inhibited by GA at concentrations as low as 10 mg/cm3. The inhibiting effect of GA was confirmed by considering the growth of keratinocytes on films made of the same copolymer, in comparison with poly(DL-lactic acid) and polystyrene taken as references. This work shows that GA-releasing degradable matrices are not adapted to the culture of keratinocytes with the aim of making skin grafts.

MicroRNA-375 targets Hippo-signaling effector YAP in liver cancer and inhibits tumor properties

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Angela M.; Department of Pharmacology and Department of Surgery, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117597; Poon, Ronnie T.P.

2010-04-09

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant form of liver cancer that ranks the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in China and many Asia regions. The dismal outcome reflects the need for a better understanding of the transcriptional control of oncogenic signaling pathway. Our recent findings have identified yes-associated protein (YAP) is a potent oncogenic driver and independent prognostic risk factor of HCC. The present study aims to elucidate the transcriptional regulation of YAP targeted by microRNA (miRNA). miR-375 is a putative target and was found significantly down-regulated in the tumor versus adjacent non-tumor tissues of HCC patients (n =more » 48). As determined by luciferase reporter assay, we found ectopic expression of miR-375 could diminish the transcriptional activity of YAP. Furthermore, immunoblotting revealed miR-375 suppressed endogenous YAP protein level. Functional assays showed that miR-375 was able to inhibit proliferation and invasion of HCC cells. Conclusion: miR-375 is an important regulator of YAP oncogene, implicating a potential therapeutic role in HCC treatment.« less

Hepatitis C Virus Induces Regulatory T Cells by Naturally Occurring Viral Variants to Suppress T Cell Responses

PubMed Central

Cusick, Matthew F.; Schiller, Jennifer J.; Gill, Joan C.; Eckels, David D.

2011-01-01

Regulatory T cell markers are increased in chronically infected individuals with the hepatitis C virus (HCV), but to date, the induction and maintenance of Tregs in HCV infection has not been clearly defined. In this paper, we demonstrate that naturally occurring viral variants suppress T cell responses to cognate NS3358-375 in an antigen-specific manner. Of four archetypal variants, S370P induced regulatory T cell markers in comparison to NS3358-375-stimulated CD4 T cells. Further, the addition of variant-specific CD4 T cells back into a polyclonal culture in a dose-dependent manner inhibited the T cell response. These results suggest that HCV is able to induce antigen-specific regulatory T cells to suppress the antiviral T cell response in an antigen-specific manner, thus contributing to a niche within the host that could be conducive to HCV persistence. PMID:21197453

Clinical Benefit of Everolimus as Second-Line Therapy in Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: The French Retrospective SECTOR Study.

PubMed

Oudard, Stéphane; Joly, Florence; Geoffrois, Lionnel; Laguerre, Brigitte; Houede, Nadine; Barthelemy, Philippe; Gross-Goupil, Marine; Vano, Yann; Lucidarme, Oliver; Bidault, Francois; Kelkouli, Nadia; Slimane, Khemaies; Escudier, Bernard

2016-12-01

Real-world data of everolimus after vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) are limited. The retrospective, noninterventional SECTOR (SECond line with afiniTOR) study (N = 165) assessed outcomes of second-line everolimus after initial VEGFR-TKI (TKI-everolimus, n = 144) and of third-line VEGFR-TKI after everolimus (TKI-everolimus-TKI, n = 59) in patients with mRCC. The primary end point was duration of everolimus therapy for both populations. Median duration was 4.0 months (range, 0.0-33.0 months) for second-line everolimus and 18.0 months (range, 2-78 months) for sequential VEGFR-TKI and everolimus. Median overall survival (OS) for this sequence was 36.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI], 27.0-56.0 months) and was longer for patients who received a first-line TKI for ≥ 9 months (not reached) than for < 9 months (28.0 months; P < .001). During second-line everolimus treatment, commonly reported adverse events (all grades) were fatigue (n = 66, 40.7%), anemia (n = 58, 35.8%), and stomatitis (n = 41, 25.3%). Median duration from initiation of first-line TKI to the end of the third-line TKI was 24.0 months (95% CI, 19.0-29.0 months). Median OS for this sequence was 41.0 months (95% CI, 25.0-57.0 months) and was significantly longer for patients who received the first-line TKI for ≥ 9 months (37.5 months) than for < 9 months (19.0 months; P < .0001). These results reflect clinical use of sequential TKI-everolimus and TKI-everolimus-TKI and provide additional evidence that everolimus could be an option in second-line therapy in mRCC. Results of the CheckMate-025 (Nivolumab versus Everolimus in Advanced Renal-Cell Carcinoma) and METEOR (Metastatic RCC Phase 3 Study Evaluating Cabozantinib versus Everolimus) studies might change the treatment landscape. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

A natural product-like JAK2/STAT3 inhibitor induces apoptosis of malignant melanoma cells

PubMed Central

Zhong, Hai-Jing; Dong, Zhen-Zhen; Vellaisamy, Kasipandi; Lu, Jin-Jian; Chen, Xiu-Ping; Chiu, Pauline; Kwong, Daniel W. J.; Han, Quan-Bin; Ma, Dik-Lung

2017-01-01

The JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway plays a critical role in tumorigenesis, and has been suggested as a potential molecular target for anti-melanoma therapeutics. However, few JAK2 inhibitors were being tested for melanoma therapy. In this study, eight amentoflavone analogues were evaluated for their activity against human malignant melanoma cells. The most potent analogue, compound 1, inhibited the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3 in human melanoma cells, but had no discernible effect on total JAK2 and STAT3 levels. A cellular thermal shift assay was performed to identify that JAK2 is engaged by 1 in cell lysates. Moreover, compound 1 showed higher antiproliferative activity against human melanoma A375 cells compared to a panel of cancer and normal cell lines. Compound 1 also activated caspase-3 and cleaved PARP, which are markers of apoptosis, and suppressed the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 level. Finally, compound 1 induced apoptosis in 80% of treated melanoma cells. To our knowledge, compound 1 is the first amentoflavone-based JAK2 inhibitor to be investigated for use as an anti-melanoma agent. PMID:28570563

Detention of copper by sulfur nanoparticles inhibits the proliferation of A375 malignant melanoma and MCF-7 breast cancer cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Liu, Hao; Zhang, Yikai; Zheng, Shanyuan

Selective induction of cell death or growth inhibition of cancer cells is the future of chemotherapy. Clinical trials have found that cancer tissues are enriched with copper. Based on this finding, many copper-containing compounds and complexes have been designed to “copper” cancer cells using copper as bait. However, recent studies have demonstrated that copper boosts tumor development, and copper deprivation from serum was shown to effectively inhibit the promotion of cancer. Mechanistically, copper is an essential cofactor for mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular activating kinase (ERK) kinase (MEK), a central molecule in the BRAF/MEK/ERK pathway. Therefore, depleting copper from cancer cellsmore » by directly sequestering copper has a wider field for research and potential for combination therapy. Based on the affinity between sulfur and copper, we therefore designed sulfur nanoparticles (Nano-S) that detain copper, achieving tumor growth restriction. We found that spherical Nano-S could effectively bind copper and form a tighter surficial structure. Moreover, this Nano-S detention of copper effectively inhibited the proliferation of A375 melanoma and MCF-7 breast cancer cells with minimum toxicity to normal cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that Nano-S triggered inactivation of the MEK-ERK pathway followed by inhibition of the proliferation of the A375 and MCF-7 cells. In addition, lower Nano-S concentrations and shorter exposure stimulated the expression of a copper transporter as compensation, which further increased the cellular uptake and anticancer activities of cisplatin. Collectively, our results highlight the potential of Nano-S as an anticancer agent or adjuvant through its detention of copper. - Highlights: • Nano-S selectively inhibited the mitosis of A375 and MCF-7 cells by depleting copper. • Nano-S inactivated MEK/ERK pathway through the detention of copper. • Nano-S improved the cellular uptake and anticancer activities of cisplatin.« less

RNA interference of argininosuccinate synthetase restores sensitivity to recombinant arginine deiminase (rADI) in resistant cancer cells

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Background Sensitivity of cancer cells to recombinant arginine deiminase (rADI) depends on expression of argininosuccinate synthetase (AS), a rate-limiting enzyme in synthesis of arginine from citrulline. To understand the efficiency of RNA interfering of AS in sensitizing the resistant cancer cells to rADI, the down regulation of AS transiently and permanently were performed in vitro, respectively. Methods We studied the use of down-regulation of this enzyme by RNA interference in three human cancer cell lines (A375, HeLa, and MCF-7) as a way to restore sensitivity to rADI in resistant cells. The expression of AS at levels of mRNA and protein was determined to understand the effect of RNA interference. Cell viability, cell cycle, and possible mechanism of the restore sensitivity of AS RNA interference in rADI treated cancer cells were evaluated. Results AS DNA was present in all cancer cell lines studied, however, the expression of this enzyme at the mRNA and protein level was different. In two rADI-resistant cell lines, one with endogenous AS expression (MCF-7 cells) and one with induced AS expression (HeLa cells), AS small interference RNA (siRNA) inhibited 37-46% of the expression of AS in MCF-7 cells. ASsiRNA did not affect cell viability in MCF-7 which may be due to the certain amount of residual AS protein. In contrast, ASsiRNA down-regulated almost all AS expression in HeLa cells and caused cell death after rADI treatment. Permanently down-regulated AS expression by short hairpin RNA (shRNA) made MCF-7 cells become sensitive to rADI via the inhibition of 4E-BP1-regulated mTOR signaling pathway. Conclusions Our results demonstrate that rADI-resistance can be altered via AS RNA interference. Although transient enzyme down-regulation (siRNA) did not affect cell viability in MCF-7 cells, permanent down-regulation (shRNA) overcame the problem of rADI-resistance due to the more efficiency in AS silencing. PMID:21453546

Apigenin inhibits proliferation and invasion, and induces apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in human melanoma cells.

PubMed

Zhao, Guangming; Han, Xiaodong; Cheng, Wei; Ni, Jing; Zhang, Yunfei; Lin, Jingrong; Song, Zhiqi

2017-04-01

Malignant melanoma is the most invasive and fatal form of cutaneous cancer. Moreover it is extremely resistant to conventional chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Apigenin, a non-mutagenic flavonoid, has been found to exhibit chemopreventive and/or anticancerogenic properties in many different types of human cancer cells. Therefore, apigenin may have particular relevance for development as a chemotherapeutic agent for cancer treatment. In the present study, we investigated the effects of apigenin on the viability, migration and invasion potential, dendrite morphology, cell cycle distribution, apoptosis, phosphorylation of the extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase (ERK) and the AKT/mTOR signaling pathway in human melanoma A375 and C8161 cell lines in vitro. Apigenin effectively suppressed the proliferation of melanoma cells in vitro. Moreover, it inhibited cell migration and invasion, lengthened the dendrites, and induced G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis. Furthermore, apigenin promoted the activation of cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved PARP proteins and decreased the expression of phosphorylated (p)‑ERK1/2 proteins, p-AKT and p-mTOR. Consequently, apigenin is a novel therapeutic candidate for melanoma.

Multifunctional triblock co-polymer mP3/4HB-b-PEG-b-lPEI for efficient intracellular siRNA delivery and gene silencing.

PubMed

Zhou, Li; Chen, Zhifei; Wang, Feifei; Yang, Xiuqun; Zhang, Biliang

2013-04-01

A non-viral siRNA carrier composed of mono-methoxy-poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-4-hydroxybutyrate)-block-polyethylene glycol-block-linear polyethyleneimine (mP3/4HB-b-PEG-b-lPEI) was synthesized using 1800 Da linear polyethyleneimine and evaluated for siRNA delivery. Our study demonstrated that siRNA could be efficiently combined with mP3/4HB-b-PEG-b-lPEI (mAG) co-polymer and was protected from nuclease degradation. The combined siRNA were released from the complexes easily under heparin competition. The particle size of the mAG/siRNA complexes was 158 nm, with a ζ-potential of around 28 mV. Atomic force microscopy images displayed spherical and homogeneously distributed complexes. The mAG block co-polymer displayed low cytotoxicity and efficient cellular uptake of Cy3-siRNA in A549 cells by flow cytometry and confocal microscopy. In vitro transfection efficiency of the block co-polymer was assessed using siRNA against luciferase in cultured A549-Luc, HeLa-Luc, HLF-Luc, A375-Luc and MCF-7-Luc cells. A higher transfection efficiency and lower cytotoxicity was obtained by mAG block co-polymer in five cell lines. Furthermore, a remarkable improvement in luciferase gene silencing efficiency of the mAG complex (up to 90-95%) over that of Lipofectamine™ 2000 (70-82%) was observed in HLF-Luc and A375-Luc cells. Additionally, a mAG/p65-siRNA complex also showed a better capability than Lipofectamine™ 2000/p65-siRNA complex to drastically reduce the p65 mRNA level down to 10-16% in HeLa, U251 and HUVEC cells at an N/P ratio of 70. Crown Copyright © 2013. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

In-vitro antitumor activity evaluation of hyperforin derivatives.

PubMed

Sun, Feng; Liu, Jin-Yun; He, Feng; Liu, Zhong; Wang, Rui; Wang, Dong-Mei; Wang, Yi-Fei; Yang, De-Po

2011-08-01

The derivatives of hyperforin, namely hyperforin acetate (2), 17,18,22,23,27,28,32,33-octahydrohyperforin acetate (3), and N,N-dicyclohexylamine salt of hyperforin (4), have been investigated for their antitumor properties. In-vitro studies demonstrated that 2 and 4 were active against HeLa (human cervical cancer), A375 (human malignant melanoma), HepG2 (human hepatocellular carcinoma), MCF-7 (human breast cancer), A549 (human nonsmall cell lung cancer), K562 (human chronic myeloid leukemia), and K562/ADR (human adriamycin-resistant K562) cell lines with IC(50) values in the range of 3.2-64.1 μM. The energy differences between highest occupied molecular orbital and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital of 2-4 were calculated to be 0.39778, 0.43106, and 0.30900 a.u., respectively, using the Gaussian 03 software package and ab initio method with the HF/6-311 G* basis set. The result indicated that the biological activity of 4 might be the strongest and that of 3 might be the weakest, which was in accordance with their corresponding antiproliferative effects against the tested tumor cell lines. Compound 4 caused cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase in flow cytometry experiment and induced apoptosis by 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole staining and Annexin V-FITC/PI (propidium iodide) double-labeled staining in HepG2 cells. The results indicated a potential for N,N-dicyclohexylamine salt of hyperforin as a new antitumor drug.

A 37.5-kW point design comparison of the nickel-cadmium battery, bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery, and regenerative hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell energy storage subsystems for low earth orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manzo, M. A.; Hoberecht, M. A.

1984-01-01

Nickel-cadmium batteries, bipolar nickel-hydrogen batteries, and regenerative fuel cell storage subsystems were evaluated for use as the storage subsystem in a 37.5 kW power system for Space Station. Design requirements were set in order to establish a common baseline for comparison purposes. The storage subsystems were compared on the basis of effective energy density, round trip electrical efficiency, total subsystem weight and volume, and life.

A 37.5-kW point design comparison of the nickel-cadmium battery, bipolar nickel-hydrogen battery, and regenerative hydrogen-oxygen fuel cell energy storage subsystems for low Earth orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Manzo, M. A.; Hoberecht, M. A.

1984-01-01

Nickel-cadmium batteries, bipolar nickel-hydrogen batteries, and regenerative fuel cell storage subsystems were evaluated for use as the storage subsystem in a 37.5 kW power system for space station. Design requirements were set in order to establish a common baseline for comparison purposes. The storage subsystems were compared on the basis of effective energy density, round trip electrical efficiency, total subsystem weight and volume, and life.

Physalin B from Physalis angulata triggers the NOXA-related apoptosis pathway of human melanoma A375 cells.

PubMed

Hsu, Chia-Chun; Wu, Yang-Chang; Farh, Lynn; Du, Ying-Chi; Tseng, Wei-Kung; Wu, Chau-Chung; Chang, Fang-Rong

2012-03-01

Melanoma is a lethal form of skin cancer that can metastasize rapidly. While surgery and radiation therapy provide palliative therapy for local tumor growth, systemic therapy is the mainstay of treatment for metastatic melanoma. However, limited chemotherapeutic agents are available for melanoma treatment. In this study, we investigated the anti-melanoma effect of physalin B, the major active compound from a widely used herb medicine, Physalis angulata L. This study demonstrated that physalin B exhibits cytotoxicity towards v-raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF)-mutated melanoma A375 and A2058 cells (the IC50 values are lower than 4.6 μg/ml). Cytotoxicity is likely resulted from apoptosis since the apoptotic marker phosphatidylserine are detected immediately under physalin B treatment and apoptotic cells formation. Further examination revealed that physalin B induces expression of the proapoptotic protein NOXA within 2 h and later triggers the expression of Bax and caspase-3 in A375 cells. These results indicate that physalin B can induce apoptosis of melanoma cancer cells via the NOXA, caspase-3, and mitochondria-mediated pathways, but not of human skin fibroblast cells and myoblastic cells. Thus, physalin B has the potential to be developed as an effective chemotherapeutic lead compound for the treatment of malignant melanoma. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The use of one-bead one-compound combinatorial library technology to discover high-affinity αvβ3 integrin and cancer targeting RGD ligands with a build-in handle

PubMed Central

Xiao, Wenwu; Wang, Yan; Lau, Edmond Y.; Luo, Juntao; Yao, Nianhuan; Shi, Changying; Meza, Leah; Tseng, Harry; Maeda, Yoshiko; Kumaresan, Pappanaicken; Liu, Ruiwu; Lightstone, Felice C.; Takada, Yoshikazu; Lam, Kit S.

2012-01-01

The αvβ3 integrin, expressed on the surface of various normal and cancer cells, is involved in numerous physiological processes such as angiogenesis, apoptosis, and bone resorption. Because this integrin plays a key role in angiogenesis and metastasis of human tumors, αvβ3 integrin ligands are of great interest to advances in targeted-therapy and cancer imaging. In this report, one-bead-one-compound (OBOC) combinatorial libraries containing the RGD motif were designed and screened against K562 myeloid leukemia cells that had been transfected with human αvβ3 integrin gene. Cyclic peptide LXW7 was identified as a leading ligand with a build-in handle that binds specifically to αvβ3 and showed comparable binding affinity (IC50 = 0.68±0.08 μM) to some of the well-known RGD “head-to-tail” cyclic pentapeptide ligands reported in the literature. The biotinylated form of LXW7 ligand showed similar binding strength as LXW7 against αvβ3 integrin, whereas biotinylated RGD cyclopentapeptide ligands revealed a 2 to 8 fold weaker binding affinity than their free forms. LXW7 was able to bind to both U-87MG glioblastoma and A375M melanoma cell lines, both of which express high levels of αvβ3 integrin. In vivo and ex vivo optical imaging studies with biotinylated-ligand/streptavidin-Cy5.5 complex in nude mice bearing U-87MG or A375M xenografts revealed preferential uptake of biotinylated LXW7 in tumor. When compared with biotinylated RGD cyclopentapeptide ligands, biotinylated LXW7 showed higher tumor uptake but lower liver uptake. PMID:20858725

OH radicals from the indirect actions of X-rays induce cell lethality and mediate the majority of the oxygen enhancement effect.

PubMed

Hirayama, Ryoichi; Ito, Atsushi; Noguchi, Miho; Matsumoto, Yoshitaka; Uzawa, Akiko; Kobashi, Gen; Okayasu, Ryuichi; Furusawa, Yoshiya

2013-11-01

We examined OH radical-mediated indirect actions from X irradiation on cell killing in wild-type Chinese hamster ovary cell lines (CHO and AA8) under oxic and hypoxic conditions, and compared the contribution of direct and indirect actions under both conditions. The contribution of indirect action on cell killing can be estimated from the maximum degree of protection by dimethylsulfoxide, which suppresses indirect action by quenching OH radicals without affecting the direct action of X rays on cell killing. The contributions of indirect action on cell killing of CHO cells were 76% and 50% under oxic and hypoxic conditions, respectively, and those for AA8 cells were 85% and 47%, respectively. Therefore, the indirect action on cell killing was enhanced by oxygen during X irradiation in both cell lines tested. Oxygen enhancement ratios (OERs) at the 10% survival level (D10 or LD90) for CHO and AA8 cells were 2.68 ± 0.15 and 2.76 ± 0.08, respectively. OERs were evaluated separately for indirect and direct actions, which gave the values of 3.75 and 2.01 for CHO, and 4.11 and 1.32 for AA8 cells, respectively. Thus the generally accepted OER value of ∼3 is best understood as the average of the OER values for both indirect and direct actions. These results imply that both indirect and direct actions on cell killing require oxygen for the majority of lethal DNA damage, however, oxygen plays a larger role in indirect than for direct effects. Conversely, the lethal damage induced by the direct action of X rays are less affected by oxygen concentration.

miR-375 induces human decidua basalis-derived stromal cells to become insulin-producing cells.

PubMed

Shaer, Anahita; Azarpira, Negar; Vahdati, Akbar; Karimi, Mohammad Hosein; Shariati, Mehrdad

2014-09-01

This paper focuses on the development of renewable sources of isletreplacement tissue for the treatment of type I diabetes mellitus. Placental tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising source for regenerative medicine due to their plasticity and easy availability. They have the potential to differentiate into insulin-producing cells. miR-375 is a micro RNA that is expressed in the pancreas and involved in islet development. Human placental decidua basalis MSCs (PDB-MSCs) were cultured from full-term human placenta. The immunophenotype of the isolated cells was checked for CD90, CD105, CD44, CD133 and CD34 markers. The MSCs (P3) were chemically transfected with hsa-miR-375. Total RNA was extracted 4 and 6 days after transfection. The expressions of insulin, NGN3, GLUT2, PAX4, PAX6, KIR6.2, NKX6.1, PDX1, and glucagon genes were evaluated using real-time qPCR. On day 6, we tested the potency of the clusters in response to the high glucose challenge and assessed the presence of insulin and NGN3 proteins via immunocytochemistry. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed that more than 90% of the cells were positive for CD90, CD105 and CD44 and negative for CD133 and CD34. Morphological changes were followed from day 2. Cell clusters formed during day 6. Insulin-producing clusters showed a deep red color with DTZ. The expression of pancreatic-specific transcription factors increased remarkably during the four days after transfection and significantly increased on day 7. The clusters were positive for insulin and NGN3 proteins, and C-peptide and insulin secretion increased in response to changes in the glucose concentration (2.8 mM and 16.7 mM). In conclusion, the MSCs could be programmed into functional insulin-producing cells by transfection of miR-375.

Fibrin monomer increases platelet adherence to tumor cells in a flowing system: a possible role in metastasis?

PubMed

Biggerstaff, J P; Seth, N B; Meyer, T V; Amirkhosravi, A; Francis, J L

1998-12-15

Considerable evidence exists linking hemostasis and malignancy. Platelet adhesion to tumor cells has been implicated in the metastatic process. Plasma fibrinogen (Fg) and fibrin (Fn) monomer, increased in cancer, may play a role in tumor biology. Binding of Fn monomer to tumor cells and its effect on platelet-tumor cell adhesion in a flowing system were studied. Fn monomer was produced by adding thrombin (1 micro/mL) to FXIII- and plasminogen-free Fg in the presence of Gly-Pro-Arg-Pro (GPRP) amide. Fn monomer binding to live A375 cells was visualized by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Adherent cells were perfused for 1h with Fn monomer, washed and stained in situ with anti-human Fn (American Biogenetic Sciences, Inc.) followed by goat anti-mouse IgG(FITC). Platelet adherence to Fn monomer treated A375 cells was performed under flow conditions by passing platelets (5x10(4)/microl 0.25 mL/min; labeled with the carbocyanine dye DiI) over the tumor cells for 30 min. CLSM images were obtained after washing. There was considerable binding of Fn monomer, but not Fg alone. Platelets adhered relatively weakly to untreated A375 cells and this was not significantly affected by pre-treatment of the tumor cells with fibrinogen or thrombin. However, pre-treatment with Fn monomer resulted in extensive platelet binding to tumor cells, suggesting that coagulation activation and the subsequent increase in circulating Fn monomer may enhance platelet adhesion to circulating tumor cells and thereby facilitate metastatic spread.

Antioxidant, pro-oxidant and cytotoxic properties of parsley.

PubMed

Dorman, H J Damien; Lantto, Tiina A; Raasmaja, Atso; Hiltunen, Raimo

2011-06-01

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) leaves were macerated with a mixture of methanol: water: acetic acid to produce a crude extract which was then defatted with (40°-60°) petrol. Antioxidant activity of the extract was evaluated using a battery of in vitro assays, viz., iron(iii) reduction, iron(ii) chelation and free radical scavenging assays. Evaluation of the pro-oxidant activity of the extract was based upon its effects upon DNA fragmentation and protein carbonylation. Cytotoxicity and apoptotic effects of the extract were determined in non-cancerous CV1-P fibroblast and cancerous A375 melanoma cells using MTT and LDH tests and caspase 3-like activity assay. The highest concentration, 2.0 mg ml(-1), decreased the viability of both cell lines, however, the cancerous melanoma cells were slightly susceptible to the effects. The observed cytotoxicity was not due to the caspase 3 activity. In conclusion, the toxicity might be explained by the pro-oxidative activity of components within the extract against proteins and/or DNA but it is not related to caspase 3-dependent apoptosis within cells.

Influence of CSN1S2 protein from Caprine milk Etawah Breed (EB) on histology of microglial cells in rat (Rattus norvegicus) Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rika, Margareth; Fatchiyah

2017-11-01

Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a degenerative disease that causes an imbalance in the metabolism. The aim of this research is to determine the influences of CSN1S2 on the structure of microglial cells in T2DM. Rats (Rattus norvegicus) were divided into eight groups of treatment with looping three times each between treatment groups (CM) Control. The control is given a milk treatment with doses of 375 mg/kg (CM375), 750 mg/kg (CM750), and 1500 mg/kg (CM1500), T2DM (DMK), and T2DM with CSN1S2 375 mg/kg dose (DM375), 750mg/kg (DM750), and 1500 mg/kg (DM1500). The animal model T2DM was induced by a high-fat diet in the form of feed followed by injection of STZ (dose of 25 mg/kg of animal treatment) and treatment of CSN1S2 for 28 days. Brain organs were taken and analysed in histopathology stained by Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and observed using Olympus BX53. Based on the results, it was concluded that CSN1S2 protein is influential for induction of microglial cell proliferation in animal models of T2DM, as immunity responds to the inflammatory condition in T2DM.

IL-1-induced ERK1/2 activation up-regulates p21{sup Waf1/Cip1} protein by inhibition of degradation via ubiquitin-independent pathway in human melanoma cells A375

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Arakawa, Tomohiro; Hayashi, Hidetoshi; Itoh, Saotomo

2010-02-12

IL-1 inhibits the proliferation of human melanoma cells A375 by arresting the cell cycle at G0/G1 phase, which accompanies the increase of p21{sup Waf1/Cip1} (p21) protein. Here, we demonstrate that IL-1 induces the stabilization of p21 protein via ERK1/2 pathway. The degradation of p21 was inhibited by IL-1, however the ubiquitination level of p21 was not affected. In addition, the degradation of non-ubiquitinated form of lysine less mutant p21-K6R was also inhibited by IL-1, suggesting that IL-1 stabilized p21 protein via ubiquitin-independent pathway. Furthermore, the inhibition of p21 protein degradation was prevented by a selective inhibitor of ERK1/2 pathway, PD98059.more » These results suggest that IL-1-induced ERK1/2 activation leads to the up-regulation of p21 by inhibiting degradation via ubiquitin-independent pathway in human melanoma cells A375.« less

Effects of chlorpyrifos on the growth and ultrastructure of green algae, Ankistrodesmus gracilis.

PubMed

Asselborn, Viviana; Fernández, Carolina; Zalocar, Yolanda; Parodi, Elisa R

2015-10-01

The effect of the organophosphorus insecticide chlorpyrifos on the growth, biovolume, and ultrastructure of the green microalga Ankistrodesmus gracilis was evaluated. Concentrations of 9.37, 18.75, 37.5, 75 and 150mgL(-1) of chlorpyrifos were assayed along with a control culture. At the end of the bioassay the ultrastructure of algal cells from control culture and from cultures exposed to 37.5 and 150mgL(-1) was observed under transmission (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). After 24 and 48h, treatments with 75 and 150mgL(-1) inhibited the growth of A. gracilis; whereas after 72 and 96h, all the treatments except at 9.37mgL(-1) significantly affected the algae growth. The effective concentration 50 (EC50) after 96h was 22.44mgL(-1) of chlorpyrifos. After the exposure to the insecticide, an increase in the biovolume was observed, with a larger increase in cells exposed to 75 and 150mgL(-1). Radical changes were observed in the ultrastructure of cells exposed to chlorpyrifos. The insecticide affected the cell shape and the distribution of the crests in the wall. At 37.5mgL(-1) electodense bodies were observed along with an increase in the size and number of starch granules. At 150mgL(-1) such bodies occupied almost the whole cytoplasm together with lipids and remains of thylakoids. Autospores formation occurred normally at 37.5mgL(-1) while at 150mgL(-1) karyokinesis occurred, but cell-separation-phase was inhibited. The present study demonstrates that the exposure of phytoplankton to the insecticide chlorpyrifos leads to effects observed at both cellular and population level. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Lipid raft regulates the initial spreading of melanoma A375 cells by modulating β1 integrin clustering.

PubMed

Wang, Ruifei; Bi, Jiajia; Ampah, Khamal Kwesi; Zhang, Chunmei; Li, Ziyi; Jiao, Yang; Wang, Xiaoru; Ba, Xueqing; Zeng, Xianlu

2013-08-01

Cell adhesion and spreading require integrins-mediated cell-extracellular matrix interaction. Integrins function through binding to extracellular matrix and subsequent clustering to initiate focal adhesion formation and actin cytoskeleton rearrangement. Lipid raft, a liquid ordered plasma membrane microdomain, has been reported to play major roles in membrane motility by regulating cell surface receptor function. Here, we identified that lipid raft integrity was required for β1 integrin-mediated initial spreading of melanoma A375 cells on fibronectin. We found that lipid raft disruption with methyl-β-cyclodextrin led to the inability of focal adhesion formation and actin cytoskeleton rearrangement by preventing β1 integrin clustering. Furthermore, we explored the possible mechanism by which lipid raft regulates β1 integrin clustering and demonstrated that intact lipid raft could recruit and modify some adaptor proteins, such as talin, α-actinin, vinculin, paxillin and FAK. Lipid raft could regulate the location of these proteins in lipid raft fractions and facilitate their binding to β1 integrin, which may be crucial for β1 integrin clustering. We also showed that lipid raft disruption impaired A375 cell migration in both transwell and wound healing models. Together, these findings provide a new insight for the relationship between lipid raft and the regulation of integrins. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Amino Acid Signature in Human Melanoma Cell Lines from Different Disease Stages.

PubMed

Wasinger, Christine; Hofer, Alexandra; Spadiut, Oliver; Hohenegger, Martin

2018-04-19

Cancer cells rewire metabolism to sustain high proliferation rates. Beside glycolysis and glutaminolysis, amino acids substitute as energy source, feed fatty acid biosynthesis and represent part of the secretome of transformed cells, including melanoma. We have therefore investigated acetate, pyruvate and the amino acid composition of the secretome of human melanoma cells representing the early slow (WM35, WM278, WM793b and VM21) and metastatic fast (A375, 518a2, 6F and WM8) growth phase in order to identify possible signalling components within these profiles. Proliferation assays and a principle component analysis revealed a stringent difference between the fast and slow growing melanoma cells. Moreover, upon inhibition of the mevalonate pathway, glutamic acid and alanine were identified as the central difference in the conditional media. A supplementation of the media with glutamic acid and the combination with alanine significantly accelerated the proliferation, migration and invasion of early stage melanoma cells, but not metastatic cells. Finally, the inhibition of the mevalonate pathway abolished the growth advantage of the melanoma cells in a time dependent manner. Taken together, these data corroborate a stage specific response in growth and aggressiveness to extracellular glutamic acid and alanine, indicative for microenvironmental signalling of individual amino acids.

Combined pitavastatin and dacarbazine treatment activates apoptosis and autophagy resulting in synergistic cytotoxicity in melanoma cells.

PubMed

Al-Qatati, Abeer; Aliwaini, Saeb

2017-12-01

Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer and its incidence is increasing faster than any other type of cancer. Whilst dacarbazine (DTIC) is the standard chemotherapy for metastatic melanoma, it has limited success. Statins, including pitavastatin, have been demonstrated to have a range of anti-cancer effects in a number of human cancer cell lines. The present study therefore explored the anti-cancer activity of combined DTIC and pitavastatin in A375 and WM115 human melanoma cells. Cell survival assays demonstrated that combined DTIC and pitavastatin treatment resulted in synergistic cell death. Cell cycle analyses further revealed that this combined treatment resulted in a G1 cell cycle arrest, as well as a sub-G1 population, indicative of apoptosis. Activation of apoptosis was confirmed by Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double-staining and an increase in the levels of active caspase 3 and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that apoptosis occurs through the intrinsic pathway, evident from the release of cytochrome c. Finally, combined DTIC and pitavastatin treatment was demonstrated to also activate autophagy as part of a cell death mechanism. The present study provides novel evidence to suggest that the combined treatment of DTIC and pitavastatin may be effective in the treatment of melanoma.

Combined pitavastatin and dacarbazine treatment activates apoptosis and autophagy resulting in synergistic cytotoxicity in melanoma cells

PubMed Central

Al-Qatati, Abeer; Aliwaini, Saeb

2017-01-01

Melanoma is an aggressive skin cancer and its incidence is increasing faster than any other type of cancer. Whilst dacarbazine (DTIC) is the standard chemotherapy for metastatic melanoma, it has limited success. Statins, including pitavastatin, have been demonstrated to have a range of anti-cancer effects in a number of human cancer cell lines. The present study therefore explored the anti-cancer activity of combined DTIC and pitavastatin in A375 and WM115 human melanoma cells. Cell survival assays demonstrated that combined DTIC and pitavastatin treatment resulted in synergistic cell death. Cell cycle analyses further revealed that this combined treatment resulted in a G1 cell cycle arrest, as well as a sub-G1 population, indicative of apoptosis. Activation of apoptosis was confirmed by Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double-staining and an increase in the levels of active caspase 3 and cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that apoptosis occurs through the intrinsic pathway, evident from the release of cytochrome c. Finally, combined DTIC and pitavastatin treatment was demonstrated to also activate autophagy as part of a cell death mechanism. The present study provides novel evidence to suggest that the combined treatment of DTIC and pitavastatin may be effective in the treatment of melanoma. PMID:29344241

Chimeras of the native form or achondroplasia mutant (G375C) of human fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 induce ligand-dependent differentiation of PC12 cells.

PubMed Central

Thompson, L M; Raffioni, S; Wasmuth, J J; Bradshaw, R A

1997-01-01

Mutations in the gene for human fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (hFGFR3) cause a variety of skeletal dysplasias, including the most common genetic form of dwarfism, achondroplasia (ACH). Evidence indicates that these phenotypes are not due to simple haploinsufficiency of FGFR3 but are more likely related to a role in negatively regulating skeletal growth. The effects of one of these mutations on FGFR3 signaling were examined by constructing chimeric receptors composed of the extracellular domain of human platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (hPDGFR beta) and the transmembrane and intracellular domains of hFGFR3 or of an ACH (G375C) mutant. Following stable transfection in PC12 cells, which lack platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) receptors, all clonal cell lines, with either type of chimera, showed strong neurite outgrowth in the presence of PDGF but not in its absence. Antiphosphotyrosine immunoblots showed ligand-dependent autophosphorylation, and both receptor types stimulated strong phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinase, an event associated with the differentiative response of these cells. In addition, ligand-dependent phosphorylation of phospholipase Cgamma and Shc was also observed. All of these responses were comparable to those observed from ligand activation, such as by nerve growth factor, of the native PC12 cells used to prepare the stable transfectants. The cells with the chimera bearing the ACH mutation were more rapidly responsive to ligand with less sustained MAPK activation, indicative of a preactivated or primed condition and consistent with the view that these mutations weaken ligand control of FGFR3 function. However, the full effect of the mutation likely depends in part on structural features of the extracellular domain. Although FGFR3 has been suggested to act as a negative regulator of long-bone growth in chrondrocytes, it produces differentiative signals similar to those of FGFR1, to which only positive effects have been ascribed, in PC12 cells. Therefore, its regulatory effects on bone growth likely result from cellular contexts and not the induction of a unique FGFR3 signaling pathway. PMID:9199352

Cytotoxic effect of Reseda lutea L.: A case of forgotten remedy.

PubMed

Radulović, Niko S; Zlatković, Dragan B; Ilić-Tomić, Tatjana; Senerović, Lidija; Nikodinovic-Runic, Jasmina

2014-04-11

Reseda lutea L. (Resedaceae) or Wild Mignonette is a widely distributed plant species. Pliny the Elder (AD 23-AD 79), a Roman scholar and naturalist, reported the use of R. lutea for reducing tumors in his Historia naturalis. Accounts of the beneficial effects of R. lutea in tumor treatment could also be found in the works of later authors, such as Étienne François Geoffroy (1672-1731) and Samuel Frederick Gray (1766-1828). However, to date no in vivo or in vitro evidence exists in support of the alleged tumor healing properties of R. lutea. The composition of autolysates obtained from different organs (root, flower and fruit) of R. lutea was investigated by GC and GC-MS analyses and IR, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. These analyses led to the discovery of a new compound isolated in pure form from the flower autolysate. Autolysates and their major constituents were submitted to MTT-dye reduction cytotoxic assay on human A375 (melanoma) and MRC5 (fibroblast) cell lines. Mechanism of the cytotoxic effects was studied by cell cycle analysis and Annexin V assay. Benzyl isothiocyanate and 2-(α-l-rhamnopyranosyloxy)benzyl isothiocyanate were identified as the major constituents of the root and flower autolysates, respectively (the later represents a new natural product). These compounds showed significant antiproliferative effects against both cell lines, which could also explain the observed high cytotoxic activity of the tested autolysates. Cell cycle analysis revealed apoptosis as the probable mechanism of cell death. Tumor healing properties attributed to R. lutea in the pre-modern texts were substantiated by the herein obtained results. Two isothiocyanates were found to be the major carriers of the observed activity. Although there was a relatively low differential effect of the plant metabolites on transformed and non-transformed cell lines, one can argue that the noted strong cytotoxicity provides first evidence that could explain the long forgotten use of this particular species. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Comparative preclinical evaluation of 68Ga-NODAGA and 68Ga-HBED-CC conjugated procainamide in melanoma imaging.

PubMed

Trencsényi, György; Dénes, Noémi; Nagy, Gábor; Kis, Adrienn; Vida, András; Farkas, Flóra; Szabó, Judit P; Kovács, Tünde; Berényi, Ervin; Garai, Ildikó; Bai, Péter; Hunyadi, János; Kertész, István

2017-05-30

Malignant melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. The early detection of primary melanoma tumors and metastases using non-invasive PET imaging determines the outcome of this disease. Previous studies have shown that benzamide derivatives (e.g. procainamide) conjugated with PET radionuclides specifically bind to melanin pigment of melanoma tumors. 68 Ga chelating agents can have high influence on physiological properties of 68 Ga labeled bioactive molecules, as was experienced during the application of HBED-CC on PSMA ligand. The aim of this study was to assess this concept in the case of the melanin specific procaindamide (PCA) and to compare the melanin specificity of 68 Ga-labeled PCA using HBED-CC and NODAGA chelators under in vitro and in vivo conditions. Procainamide (PCA) was conjugated with HBED-CC and NODAGA chelators and was labeled with Ga-68. The melanin specificity of 68 Ga-HBED-CC-PCA and 68 Ga-NODAGA-PCA was investigated in vitro and in vivo using amelanotic (MELUR and A375) and melanin containing (B16-F10) melanoma cell lines. Tumor-bearing mice were prepared by subcutaneous injection of B16-F10, MELUR and A375 melanoma cells into C57BL/6 and SCID mice. 21±2days after tumor cell inoculation and 90min after intravenous injection of the 68 Ga-labelledlabeled radiopharmacons whole body PET/MRI scans were performed. 68 Ga-NODAGA-PCA and 68 Ga-HBED-CC-PCA were produced with excellent radiochemical purity (98%). In vitro experiments demonstrated that after 30 and 90min incubation time 68 Ga-NODAGA-PCA uptake of B16-F10 cells was significantly (p≤0.01) higher than the 68 Ga-HBED-CC-conjugated PCA accumulation in the same cell line. Furthermore, significant difference (p≤0.01 and 0.05) was found between the uptake of melanin negative and positive cell lines using 68 Ga-NODAGA-PCA and 68 Ga-HBED-CC-PCA. In vivo PET/MRI studies using tumor models revealed significantly (p≤0.01) higher 68 Ga-NODAGA-PCA uptake (SUVmean: 0.46±0.05, SUVmax: 1.96±0.25,T/M ratio: 40.7±4.23) in B16-F10 tumors in contrast to 68 Ga-HBED-CC-PCA where the SUVmean, SUVmax and T/M ratio were 0.13±0.01, 0.56±0.11 and 11.43±1.24, respectively. Melanin specific PCA conjugated with NODAGA chelator showed higher specific binding properties than conjugated with HBED-CC. The chemical properties of the bifunctional chelators used for 68 Ga-labeling of PCA determine the biological behaviour of the probes. Due to the high specificity and sensitivity 68 Ga-labeled PCA molecules are promising radiotracers in melanoma imaging. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

COX-2 expression positively correlates with PD-L1 expression in human melanoma cells.

PubMed

Botti, Gerardo; Fratangelo, Federica; Cerrone, Margherita; Liguori, Giuseppina; Cantile, Monica; Anniciello, Anna Maria; Scala, Stefania; D'Alterio, Crescenzo; Trimarco, Chiara; Ianaro, Angela; Cirino, Giuseppe; Caracò, Corrado; Colombino, Maria; Palmieri, Giuseppe; Pepe, Stefano; Ascierto, Paolo Antonio; Sabbatino, Francesco; Scognamiglio, Giosuè

2017-02-23

The resistance to PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors for the treatment of melanoma have prompted investigators to implement novel clinical trials which combine immunotherapy with different treatment modalities. Moreover is also important to investigate the mechanisms which regulate the dynamic expression of PD-L1 on tumor cells and PD-1 on T cells in order to identify predictive biomarkers of response. COX-2 is currently investigated as a major player of tumor progression in several type of malignancies including melanoma. In the present study we investigated the potential relationship between COX-2 and PD-L1 expression in melanoma. Tumor samples obtained from primary melanoma lesions and not matched lymph node metastases were analyzed for both PD-L1 and COX-2 expression by IHC analysis. Status of BRAF and NRAS mutations was analyzed by sequencing and PCR. Co-localization of PD-L1 and COX-2 expression was analyzed by double fluorescence staining. Lastly the BRAF V600E A375 and NRAS Q61R SK-MEL-2 melanoma cell lines were used to evaluate the effect of COX-2 inhibition by celecoxib on expression of PD-L1 in vitro. BRAF V600E/V600K and NRAS Q61R/Q61L were detected in 57.8 and 8.9% of the metastatic lesions, and in 65.9 and 6.8% of the primary tumors, respectively. PD-L1 and COX-2 expression were heterogeneously expressed in both primary melanoma lesions and not matched lymph node metastases. A significantly lower number of PD-L1 negative lesions was found in primary tumors as compared to not matched metastatic lesions (P = 0.002). COX-2 expression significantly correlated with PD-L1 expression in both primary (P = 0.001) and not matched metastatic (P = 0.048) lesions. Furthermore, in melanoma tumors, cancer cells expressing a higher levels of COX-2 also co-expressed a higher level of PD-L1. Lastly, inhibition of COX-2 activity by celecoxib down-regulated the expression of PD-L1 in both BRAF V600E A375 and NRAS Q61R SK-MEL-2 melanoma cell lines. COX-2 expression correlates with and modulates PD-L1 expression in melanoma cells. These findings have clinical relevance since they provide a rationale to implement novel clinical trials to test COX-2 inhibition as a potential treatment to prevent melanoma progression and immune evasion as well as to enhance the anti-tumor activity of PD-1/PD-L1 based immunotherapy for the treatment of melanoma patients with or without BRAF/NRAS mutations.

The oncolytic peptide LTX-315 induces cell death and DAMP release by mitochondria distortion in human melanoma cells

PubMed Central

Eike, Liv-Marie; Yang, Nannan; Rekdal, Øystein; Sveinbjørnsson, Baldur

2015-01-01

Host defense peptides (HDPs) are naturally occurring molecules found in most species, in which they play a significant role in the first line defense against intruding pathogens, and several HDPs have been shown to possess anticancer activity. Structure-activity relationship studies on the HDP bovine lactoferricin revealed a de novo design of a nonamer peptide LTX-315, with oncolytic properties. In the present study, we investigated the oncolytic activity of LTX-315 in human melanoma cells (A375). LTX-315 induced a rapid plasma membrane disruption and cell death within 2 hours. At a low concentration, fluorescence-labeled LTX-315 was internalized and accumulated in cytoplasmic vacuoles in close proximity to the mitochondria. The mitochondrial membrane potential was shown to depolarize as a consequence of LTX-315 treatment and at ultrastructural level, the mitochondria morphology was significantly altered. Release of danger signals (DAMPs) such as ATP, Cytochrome C and HMGB1 into the cell supernatant of cultured cells was evident minutes after peptide treatment. The oncolytic effect of LTX-315 involving perturbation of both the cell membrane and the mitochondria with subsequent release of DAMPs may highlight the ability of LTX-315 to induce complete regression and long-term protective immune responses as previously reported in experimental animal models. PMID:26472184

National Program for Inspection of Non-Federal Dams. Crescent Lake Dam (CT 00277), Connecticut River Basin, Enfield, Connecticut. Phase I Inspection Report.

DTIC Science & Technology

1978-11-01

hydraulic analyses. In accordance with the established Guide- lines , the Spillway Test Flood is based on the estimated "Probable Maximum Flood" for the...the south by Shaker Road. A branch line of the Penn Central Railroad pas- ses to the right of the dam and reservoir. - 0 The dam was originally...passage of water through the - upper foot of stone. ,,,’. i. Regulating Outlets There is a 375 foot long raceway outlet on the east shore- -" line

Effects of cycling temperatures on the voltage fade phenomenon in 0.5Li 2 MnO 3 ·0.5LiNi 0.375 Mn 0.375 Co 0.25 O 2 cathodes

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Vu, Anh; Walker, Lee K.; Bareño, Javier

2015-04-01

The rate of voltage fade in 0.5Li2MnO3•0.5LiNi0.375Mn0.375Co0.25O2 cathodes was measured in half-cells in a temperature range of 25 to 55°C. On the basis of the dependence of the values of the open-circuit potential with cycle count and temperature, the voltage fade phenomenon seems to consist of two chemical processes: one that can be described using a parabolic rate law and another that uses a linear-with-time law. As the cycling temperature increased, the relative contributions of the two processes changed. On the basis of the overall rate versus temperature data, we believe the two processes may be in competition with onemore » another.« less

Induction of mutations by bismuth-212 alpha particles at two genetic loci in human B-lymphoblasts.

PubMed

Metting, N F; Palayoor, S T; Macklis, R M; Atcher, R W; Liber, H L; Little, J B

1992-12-01

The human lymphoblast cell line TK6 was exposed to the alpha-particle-emitting radon daughter 212Bi by adding DTPA-chelated 212Bi directly to the cell suspension. Cytotoxicity and mutagenicity at two genetic loci were measured, and the molecular nature of mutant clones was studied by Southern blot analysis. Induced mutant fractions were 2.5 x 10(-5)/Gy at the hprt locus and 3.75 x 10(-5)/Gy at the tk locus. Molecular analysis of HPRT- mutant DNAs showed a high frequency (69%) of clones with partial or full deletions of the hprt gene among radiation-induced mutants compared with spontaneous mutants (31%). Chi-squared analyses of mutational spectra show a significant difference (P < or = 0.005) between spontaneous mutants and alpha-particle-induced mutants. Comparison with published studies of accelerator-produced heavy-ion exposures of TK6 cells indicates that the induction of mutations at the hprt locus, and perhaps a subset of mutations at the tk locus, is a simple linear function of particle fluence regardless of the ion species or its LET.

Regulation of miR-21 expression in human melanoma via UV-ray-induced melanin pigmentation.

PubMed

Lin, Kuan-Yu; Chen, Chien-Min; Lu, Cheng-You; Cheng, Chun-Yuan; Wu, Yu-Hsin

2017-08-01

Excessive environmental ultraviolet (UV) radiation produces genetic mutations that can lead to skin cancer. This study was designed to assess the potential inhibitory activity of microRNA-21 (miR-21) on the UV irradiation-stimulated melanogenesis signal pathway in melanoma cells. The molecular mechanism of miR-21-induced inhibitory activity on UV-ray-stimulated melanogenesis-regulating proteins was examined in A375.S2 human melanoma and B16F10 mouse melanoma cells. UV irradiation for 30 min induced melanogenesis signal pathway by increasing melanin production and the number of A375.S2 cells. Similarly, UV radiation increased the expression of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) protein and decreased the melanogenesis-regulating signal, such as EGFR and Akt phosphorylation. Notably, miR-21 overexpression in UV-ray-stimulated A375.S2 cells decreased α-MSH expression and increased EGFR and Akt phosphorylation levels. Furthermore, miR-21 on UV-ray- induced melanogenesis was down-regulated by the Akt inhibitor and the EGFR inhibitor (Gefitinib). Results suggest that the suppressive activity of miR-21 on UV-ray-stimulated melanogenesis may involve the down-regulation of α-MSH and the activation in both of EGFR and Akt. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Human lactoferricin derived di-peptides deploying loop structures induce apoptosis specifically in cancer cells through targeting membranous phosphatidylserine.

PubMed

Riedl, Sabrina; Leber, Regina; Rinner, Beate; Schaider, Helmut; Lohner, Karl; Zweytick, Dagmar

2015-11-01

Host defense-derived peptides have emerged as a novel strategy for the development of alternative anticancer therapies. In this study we report on characteristic features of human lactoferricin (hLFcin) derivatives which facilitate specific killing of cancer cells of melanoma, glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma compared with non-specific derivatives and the synthetic peptide RW-AH. Changes in amino acid sequence of hLFcin providing 9-11 amino acids stretched derivatives LF11-316, -318 and -322 only yielded low antitumor activity. However, the addition of the repeat (di-peptide) and the retro-repeat (di-retro-peptide) sequences highly improved cancer cell toxicity up to 100% at 20 μM peptide concentration. Compared to the complete parent sequence hLFcin the derivatives showed toxicity on the melanoma cell line A375 increased by 10-fold and on the glioblastoma cell line U-87mg by 2-3-fold. Reduced killing velocity, apoptotic blebbing, activation of caspase 3/7 and formation of apoptotic DNA fragments proved that the active and cancer selective peptides, e.g. R-DIM-P-LF11-322, trigger apoptosis, whereas highly active, though non-selective peptides, such as DIM-LF11-318 and RW-AH seem to kill rapidly via necrosis inducing membrane lyses. Structural studies revealed specific toxicity on cancer cells by peptide derivatives with loop structures, whereas non-specific peptides comprised α-helical structures without loop. Model studies with the cancer membrane mimic phosphatidylserine (PS) gave strong evidence that PS only exposed by cancer cells is an important target for specific hLFcin derivatives. Other negatively charged membrane exposed molecules as sialic acid, heparan and chondroitin sulfate were shown to have minor impact on peptide activity. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Pharmacophore-based virtual screening, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, and biological evaluation for the discovery of novel BRD4 inhibitors.

PubMed

Yan, Guoyi; Hou, Manzhou; Luo, Jiang; Pu, Chunlan; Hou, Xueyan; Lan, Suke; Li, Rui

2018-02-01

Bromodomain is a recognition module in the signal transduction of acetylated histone. BRD4, one of the bromodomain members, is emerging as an attractive therapeutic target for several types of cancer. Therefore, in this study, an attempt has been made to screen compounds from an integrated database containing 5.5 million compounds for BRD4 inhibitors using pharmacophore-based virtual screening, molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulations. As a result, two molecules of twelve hits were found to be active in bioactivity tests. Among the molecules, compound 5 exhibited potent anticancer activity, and the IC 50 values against human cancer cell lines MV4-11, A375, and HeLa were 4.2, 7.1, and 11.6 μm, respectively. After that, colony formation assay, cell cycle, apoptosis analysis, wound-healing migration assay, and Western blotting were carried out to learn the bioactivity of compound 5. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Targeted delivery of CYP2E1 recombinant adenovirus to malignant melanoma by bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells as vehicles.

PubMed

Wang, Jishi; Ma, Dan; Li, Yan; Yang, Yuan; Hu, Xiaoyan; Zhang, Wei; Fang, Qin

2014-03-01

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) as intermediate carriers on targeting of P450 gene recombinant adenovirus to malignant melanoma in vitro and in vivo. BMSCs were transduced with pAd5-CMV-CYP2E1 recombinant adenovirus. BMSC migration was detected by Transwell plates in vitro and by superparamagnetic iron oxide particles in vivo. Growth-inhibitory effect and apoptosis were determined by MTT and immunity fluorescence staining. Anticancer effects were examined by a human melanoma nude mouse model in vivo. BMSCs moved toward A375 cells in Transwell plates. Numerous superparamagnetic MSCs labeled with iron oxide were identified in the peripheral areas of the tumor, but were detected in primary organs by Prussian blue staining. BMSC-CYP2E1 cells mediated a bystander killing effect on CYP2E1-negative A375 cells during coculture (IC50 values for A375 cells cocultured with BMSC-EGFP and BMSC-CYP2E1 were 4.08 and 2.68 mmol/l, respectively). Intravenously injecting CYP2E1 recombinant adenovirus-loaded BMSCs in mice with established human melanoma managed to target the tumor site, and BMSCs with forced expression of CYP2E1 inhibited the growth of malignant cells in vivo by activating 5-(3,3-dimethyl-1-triazeno)imidazole-4-carboxamide. BMSCs may serve as a platform of P450 gene-directed enzyme prodrug therapy for the delivery of chemotherapeutic prodrugs to tumors.

Surface decoration by Spirulina polysaccharide enhances the cellular uptake and anticancer efficacy of selenium nanoparticles.

PubMed

Yang, Fang; Tang, Quanming; Zhong, Xueyun; Bai, Yan; Chen, Tianfeng; Zhang, Yibo; Li, Yinghua; Zheng, Wenjie

2012-01-01

A simple and solution-phase method for functionalization of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) with Spirulina polysaccharides (SPS) has been developed in the present study. The cellular uptake and anticancer activity of SPS-SeNPs were also evaluated. Monodisperse and homogeneous spherical SPS-SeNPs with diameters ranging from 20 nm to 50 nm were achieved under optimized conditions, which were stable in the solution phase for at least 3 months. SPS surface decoration significantly enhanced the cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of SeNPs toward several human cancer cell lines. A375 human melanoma cells were found extremely susceptible to SPS-SeNPs with half maximal (50%) inhibitory concentration value of 7.94 μM. Investigation of the underlying mechanisms revealed that SPS-SeNPs inhibited cancer cell growth through induction of apoptosis, as evidenced by an increase in sub-G(1) cell population, deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation, chromatin condensation, and phosphatidylserine translocation. Results suggest that the strategy to use SPS as a surface decorator could be an effective way to enhance the cellular uptake and anticancer efficacy of nanomaterials. SPS-SeNPs may be a potential candidate for further evaluation as a chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent against human cancers.

Surface decoration by Spirulina polysaccharide enhances the cellular uptake and anticancer efficacy of selenium nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Yang, Fang; Tang, Quanming; Zhong, Xueyun; Bai, Yan; Chen, Tianfeng; Zhang, Yibo; Li, Yinghua; Zheng, Wenjie

2012-01-01

A simple and solution-phase method for functionalization of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) with Spirulina polysaccharides (SPS) has been developed in the present study. The cellular uptake and anticancer activity of SPS-SeNPs were also evaluated. Monodisperse and homogeneous spherical SPS-SeNPs with diameters ranging from 20 nm to 50 nm were achieved under optimized conditions, which were stable in the solution phase for at least 3 months. SPS surface decoration significantly enhanced the cellular uptake and cytotoxicity of SeNPs toward several human cancer cell lines. A375 human melanoma cells were found extremely susceptible to SPS-SeNPs with half maximal (50%) inhibitory concentration value of 7.94 μM. Investigation of the underlying mechanisms revealed that SPS-SeNPs inhibited cancer cell growth through induction of apoptosis, as evidenced by an increase in sub-G1 cell population, deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation, chromatin condensation, and phosphatidylserine translocation. Results suggest that the strategy to use SPS as a surface decorator could be an effective way to enhance the cellular uptake and anticancer efficacy of nanomaterials. SPS-SeNPs may be a potential candidate for further evaluation as a chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agent against human cancers. PMID:22359460

Modulation of doxorubicin-induced oxidative stress by a grape (Vitis vinifera L.) seed extract in normal and tumor cells.

PubMed

Postescu, Ion Dan; Chereches, Gabriela; Tatomir, Corina; Daicoviciu, Doina; Filip, Gabriela Adriana

2012-07-01

The major limitation of Doxorubicin (Dox) clinical use is the development of chronic and acute toxic side effects induced through the generation of reactive oxygen species. The present work was designated to investigate in vitro effects of a red grape-seed hydroethanolic extract Burgund Mare (BM), in associated administration with Dox (30 min before drug administration) in normal (Hfl-1) and tumor cell lines (HepG2 and Mls). The BM concentrations administered were below the level of the extract cytotoxiciy threshold (40 μg gallic acid [GA] Eq/mL; 37.5, 25.0, and 12.5 μg GA Eq/mL). The antioxidant capacity of the BM extract was assessed by measuring the acute toxicity at 24 h, lipid peroxides (LP), and protein oxidation. In normal cells, the product statistically decreased cytotoxicity and markedly inhibited LP and protein carbonyl (PC) formation, in a dose-dependent relationship. On contrary, in tumor cells, such treatment resulted in a reversed effect, cell death, malondialdehyde, and PC contents increasing with BM dose enhancement. BM extract treatment prior to subsequent administration of Dox afforded a differential protection against Dox-negative toxic side effects in normal cells without weakening (even enhancing) Dox's antitumor activity.

Silymarin Targets β-Catenin Signaling in Blocking Migration/Invasion of Human Melanoma Cells

PubMed Central

Vaid, Mudit; Prasad, Ram; Sun, Qian; Katiyar, Santosh K.

2011-01-01

Metastatic melanoma is a leading cause of death from skin diseases, and is often associated with activation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. We have examined the inhibitory effect of silymarin, a plant flavanoid from Silybum marianum, on cell migration of metastasis-specific human melanoma cell lines (A375 and Hs294t) and assessed whether Wnt/β-catenin signaling is the target of silymarin. Using an in vitro invasion assay, we found that treatment of human melanoma cell lines with silymarin resulted in concentration-dependent inhibition of cell migration, which was associated with accumulation of cytosolic β-catenin, while reducing the nuclear accumulation of β-catenin (i.e., β-catenin inactivation) and reducing the levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) -2 and MMP-9 which are the down-stream targets of β-catenin. Silymarin enhanced: (i) the levels of casein kinase 1α, glycogen synthase kinase-3β and phosphorylated-β-catenin on critical residues Ser45, Ser33/37 and Thr41, and (ii) the binding of β-transducin repeat-containing proteins (β-TrCP) with phospho forms of β-catenin in melanoma cells. These events play important roles in degradation or inactivation of β-catenin. To verify whether β-catenin is a potent molecular target of silymarin, the effect of silymarin was determined on β-catenin-activated (Mel 1241) and β-catenin-inactivated (Mel 1011) melanoma cells. Treatment of Mel 1241 cells with silymarin or FH535, an inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin pathway, significantly inhibited cell migration of Mel 1241 cells, which was associated with the elevated levels of casein kinase 1α and glycogen synthase kinase-3β, and decreased accumulation of nuclear β-catenin and inhibition of MMP-2 and MMP-9 levels. However, this effect of silymarin and FH535 was not found in Mel 1011 melanoma cells. These results indicate for the first time that silymarin inhibits melanoma cell migration by targeting β-catenin signaling pathway. PMID:21829575

Inhibition of cell proliferation, migration and invasion of B16-F10 melanoma cells by α-mangostin

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Beninati, Simone, E-mail: beninati@bio.uniroma2.it; Oliverio, Serafina; Cordella, Martina

2014-08-08

Highlights: • We studied the anticancer potential of a new emerging molecule, α-mangostin (α-M). • We provide first evidences on the effects of α-M on transglutaminase activity. • We deeply examined the antimetastatic effects of α-M through many in vitro assays. • Proteomic analysis revealed that α-M promotes a reorganization at cellular level. - Abstract: In this study, we have evaluated the potential antineoplastic effects of α-mangostin (α-M), the most representative xanthone in Garcinia mangostana pericarp, on melanoma cell lines. This xanthone markedly inhibits the proliferation of high-metastatic B16-F10 melanoma cells. Furthermore, by deeply analyzing which steps in the metastaticmore » process are influenced by xanthone it was observed that α-M strongly interferes with homotypic aggregation, adhesion, plasticity and invasion ability of B16-F10 cells, probably by the observed reduction of metalloproteinase-9 activity. The antiproliferative and antimetastatic properties of α-M have been established in human SK-MEL-28 and A375 melanoma cells. In order to identify pathways potentially involved in the antineoplastic properties of α-M, a comparative mass spectrometry proteomic approach was employed. These findings may improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-cancer effects of α-M on melanoma.« less

Chemical composition, antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity on tumour cells of the essential oil from flowers of Magnolia grandiflora cultivated in Iran.

PubMed

Morshedloo, Mohammad Reza; Quassinti, Luana; Bramucci, Massimo; Lupidi, Giulio; Maggi, Filippo

2017-12-01

Magnolia grandiflora (Magnoliaceae) is an evergreen tree with fragrant and showy flowers native to southeastern USA but widely cultivated all over the world and used in cosmetics industry in treatment of skin diseases. Here, we report on the chemical analysis of the essential oil obtained from flowers of plants cultivated in Iran, together with the evaluation of its antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. The essential oil composition was dominated by bioactive sesquiterpenes, namely β-elemene, bicyclogermacrene, germacrene D and (E)-caryophyllene. The oil exhibited moderate radical scavenging activity towards the [Formula: see text] radical, and mild non-selective inhibitory effects against A375, MDA-MB 231 and T98 G tumour cell lines. The latter were influenced by the presence of the anticancer β-elemene. These results provided new insights for potential application of M. grandiflora volatile oil in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry where only the non-volatile magnolol and honokiol have hitherto been fully exploited.

Bioactive Constituents of Juniperus turbinata Gussone from La Maddalena Archipelago.

PubMed

Venditti, A; Maggi, F; Quassinti, L; Bramucci, M; Lupidi, G; Ornano, L; Ballero, M; Sanna, C; Bruno, M; Rosselli, S; Bianco, A

2018-05-22

In this paper is reported a comprehensive phytochemical study of Juniperus turbinata (Cupressaceae) collected from La Maddalena Archipelago (Sardinia, Italy). Both the essential oil and the ethanolic extract were analyzed. The essential oil appears to belong to a new chemotype compared to other Mediterranean juniper accessions, as it was favored by geographic isolation of the isles. It showed a low content of monoterpene hydrocarbons and α-terpineol, ent-manoyl oxide 1,10-di-epi-cubenol as the major constituents. The ethanolic fraction resulted mainly composed by diterpenoids. Among these 15-formyloxyimbricatolic acid (11) is a new natural product since it has hitherto been obtained only by synthetic route. The phenolic fraction was constituted by biflavonoids: cupressuflavone (3), followed by minor amounts of amentoflavone (4) and hinokiflavone (5). The essential oil and six purified compounds (1, 2, 3, 6, 7 and 9) were assessed for biological activities, namely antioxidant (assessed by DPPH · , ABTS ·+ and FRAP methods) and cytotoxic effects towards selected human tumor cell lines (MDA-MB 231, A375 and HCT116 cells). Compound 3 exhibited radical scavenging activity against ABTS ·+ radical which was higher than that of the reference Trolox. Noteworthy, compound 9 showed powerful effects on tumor cell lines, with IC 50 values in the range of 0.060-0.201 μM, which make it a promising anticancer drug candidate. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Prognostic Significance of MicroRNA-375 Downregulation in Solid Tumors: A Meta-Analysis

PubMed Central

Shao, Yingjie; Geng, Yiting; Gu, Wendong; Huang, Jin; Ning, Zhonghua; Pei, Honglei

2014-01-01

Objective. Recently, many studies have shown that microRNAs (miRNA) exhibit altered expression in various cancers and may play an important role as prognostic biomarker of cancers. We performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the impact of miR-375 expression in solid tumors on patients' overall survival (OS). Methods. Studies were identified by searching PubMed, Embace, and Cochrane Library (last search update was in May 2014) and were assessed by further quality evaluation. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for total and stratified analyses were calculated to investigate the association between miR-375 expression and cancer patients OS. Results. Our analysis results indicated that downregulation of miR-375 predicted poor OS (HR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.48–2.45, P < 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed that lower expression of miR-375 was significantly related with poor OS in patients with esophageal carcinoma (HR = 2.24, 95% CI 1.69–2.96, P < 0.001) and non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (HR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.31–2.24, P < 0.001). Conclusions. The findings from this meta-analysis suggest that miR-375 expression is associated with OS of patients with malignant tumors and could be a useful clinical prognostic biomarker. PMID:25404787

A Novel Inhibitor of STAT3 Activation Is Efficacious Against Established Central Nervous System Melanoma and Inhibits Regulatory T Cells

PubMed Central

Kong, Ling-Yuan; Abou-Ghazal, Mohamed K.; Wei, Jun; Chakraborty, Arup; Sun, Wei; Qiao, Wei; Fuller, Gregory N.; Fokt, Izabela; Grimm, Elizabeth A.; Schmittling, Robert J.; Archer, Gary E.; Sampson, John H.; Priebe, Waldemar; Heimberger, Amy B.

2008-01-01

Purpose Activation of STAT3 has been identified as a central mediator of melanoma growth and metastasis. We hypothesized that WP1066, a novel STAT3 blockade agent, has marked antitumor activity, even against the melanoma metastasis to brain, a site typically refractory to therapies. Experimental Design The antitumor activities and related mechanisms of WP1066 were investigated both in vitro on melanoma cell lines and in vivo on mice with subcutaneously syngeneic melanoma or with intracerebral melanoma tumors. Results WP1066 achieved an IC50 of 1.6 μM, 2.3 μM, and 1.5 μM against melanoma cell line A375, B16 and B16EGFRvIII, respectively. WP1066 suppressed the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3 (Tyr705) in these cells. Tumor growth in mice with subcutaneously established syngeneic melanoma was markedly inhibited by WP1066 compared with that in controls. Long-term survival (>78 days) was observed in 80% of mice with established intracerebral syngeneic melanoma treated with 40 mg/kg of WP1066 in contrast to control mice who survived for a median of 15 days. Although WP1066 did not induce immunological memory or enhance humoral responses to EGFRvIII, this compound reduced the production of immunosuppressive cytokines and chemokines (TGF-β, RANTES, MCP-1, VEGF), markedly inhibited natural and inducible Treg proliferation, and significantly increased cytotoxic immune responses of T cells. Conclusions The antitumor cytotoxic effects of WP1066 and its ability to induce antitumor immune responses suggest that this compound has potential for the effective treatment of melanoma metastatic to brain. PMID:18794085

The use of one-bead one-compound combinatorial library technology to discover high-affinity αvβ3 integrin and cancer targeting arginine-glycine-aspartic acid ligands with a built-in handle.

PubMed

Xiao, Wenwu; Wang, Yan; Lau, Edmond Y; Luo, Juntao; Yao, Nianhuan; Shi, Changying; Meza, Leah; Tseng, Harry; Maeda, Yoshiko; Kumaresan, Pappanaicken; Liu, Ruiwu; Lightstone, Felice C; Takada, Yoshikazu; Lam, Kit S

2010-10-01

The αvβ3 integrin, expressed on the surface of various normal and cancer cells, is involved in numerous physiologic processes such as angiogenesis, apoptosis, and bone resorption. Because this integrin plays a key role in angiogenesis and metastasis of human tumors, αvβ3 integrin ligands are of great interest to advances in targeted therapy and cancer imaging. In this report, one-bead one-compound (OBOC) combinatorial libraries containing the arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) motif were designed and screened against K562 myeloid leukemia cells that had been transfected with the human αvβ3 integrin gene. Cyclic peptide LXW7 was identified as a leading ligand with a built-in handle that binds specifically to αvβ3 and showed comparable binding affinity (IC(50) = 0.68 ± 0.08 μmol/L) to some of the well-known RGD "head-to-tail" cyclic pentapeptide ligands reported in the literature. The biotinylated form of LXW7 ligand showed similar binding strength as LXW7 against αvβ3 integrin, whereas biotinylated RGD cyclopentapeptide ligands revealed a 2- to 8-fold weaker binding affinity than their free forms. LXW7 was able to bind to both U-87MG glioblastoma and A375M melanoma cell lines, both of which express high levels of αvβ3 integrin. In vivo and ex vivo optical imaging studies with the biotinylated ligand/streptavidin-Cy5.5 complex in nude mice bearing U-87MG or A375M xenografts revealed preferential uptake of biotinylated LXW7 in tumor. When compared with biotinylated RGD cyclopentapeptide ligands, biotinylated LXW7 showed higher tumor uptake but lower liver uptake.

Susceptibility of In Vitro Melanoma Skin Cancer to Photoactivated Hypericin versus Aluminium(III) Phthalocyanine Chloride Tetrasulphonate

PubMed Central

Ndhundhuma, I. M.

2017-01-01

The sensitivity of human melanoma cells to photoactivated Hypericin (Hyp) compared to aluminium(III) phthalocyanine chloride tetrasulphonate (AlPcS4Cl) is reported in this study. Melanoma cells (A375 cell line) were treated with various concentrations of Hyp or AlPcS4Cl alone, for 1, 4, and 24 hrs; varying doses of laser irradiation alone (594 or 682 nm); or optimal concentrations of PSs combined with laser irradiation. Changes in cell morphology, viability, membrane integrity, and proliferation after treatment of cells were determined using inverted microscopy, Trypan blue cell exclusion, Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) membrane integrity, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) cell proliferation assay, respectively. More than 60% of cell survival was observed when cells were treated with 2.5 μM of Hyp or AlPcS4Cl alone at all incubation times or with 5 J/cm2 of 594 or 682 nm laser alone. Combination of PSs and respective lasers leads to a statistically significant incubation time-dependent decrease in survival of cells. Flow cytometry using the FITC Annexin V/PI apoptosis kit demonstrated that cell death induced after Hyp-PDT is via early and late apoptosis whereas early apoptosis was the main mechanism observed with AlPcS4Cl-PDT. Hyp-PDT compared to AlPcS4Cl-PDT is indicated to be a more effective cancer cell death inducer in melanoma cells. PMID:29147654

Determination of tumor cell procoagulant activity by Sonoclot analysis in whole blood.

PubMed

Amirkhosravi, A; Biggerstaff, J P; Warnes, G; Francis, D A; Francis, J L

1996-12-01

Coagulation activation in cancer may be due to expression of procoagulant activity (PCA) by tumor cells. Some PCA activate coagulation, while others influence platelet aggregation. Thus, clotting time assessments of PCA may not reflect the potential for hypercoagulability. We therefore studied the effect of various malignant and non-malignant cells on whole blood coagulation using the Sonoclot Analyzer. Five human (HT29 colon, J82 bladder, MCF-7 breast, BT-474 breast and A375 malignant melanoma) and three rodent (MC28, WEHI-164 and Neuro2a) cell lines were used. Rat thymocytes and peritoneal macrophages and human endotoxin-stimulated mononuclear cells and umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were used as non-malignant controls. All tumor cells markedly shortened the recalcification time of citrated blood and the most potent (HT29 and J82) also increased clot rate (P < 0.01). The breast cancer cells MCF-7 and BT-474 expressed only weak PCA and did not affect clotting rate. None of the non-malignant cells significantly affected clotting time or rate in whole blood. J82 and HT29 cells grown in serum-rich media shortened the recalcification time of both normal and FVII-deficient plasmas. However, cells grown in serum-free conditions had significantly less PCA in FVII-deficient plasma. We conclude that the Sonoclot Analyzer is useful for determining cellular PCA; significant PCA is a feature of malignant cells and cells grown in medium containing serum supplements cannot be reliably evaluated for PCA.

Oncolytic adenovirus expressing interleukin-18 improves antitumor activity of dacarbazine for malignant melanoma.

PubMed

Yang, Chunhua; Cao, Hang; Liu, Ning; Xu, Kai; Ding, Meng; Mao, Li-Jun

2016-01-01

Conditionally replicating adenoviruses have emerged as novel therapeutic agents for cancer. This study aimed to evaluate synergistic antitumor activity of replication-competent adenovirus armed with interleukin (IL)-18 (ZD55-IL-18) and dacarbazine (DTIC) against melanoma. Melanoma A375 cells or nude mouse tumor xenografts were treated with ZD55-IL-18 alone or together with DTIC. The results showed that ZD55-IL-18 competently replicated in A375 cells and expressed IL-18, and these were not affected by DTIC. ZD55-IL-18 enhanced the cytotoxicity of DTIC accompanied by increased apoptosis. Moreover, ZD55-IL-18 and DTIC synergistically inhibited the growth but promoted the apoptosis of A375 xenografts and inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor expression and lung metastasis in xenografts of nude mice. In conclusion, this is the first study to show synergistic anticancer activity of ZD55-IL-18 and DTIC for malignant melanoma. Our results provide evidence that chemo-gene-viro therapeutic approach has greater potential for malignant cancers than conventional chemotherapy or gene therapy.

Oncolytic adenovirus expressing interleukin-18 improves antitumor activity of dacarbazine for malignant melanoma

PubMed Central

Yang, Chunhua; Cao, Hang; Liu, Ning; Xu, Kai; Ding, Meng; Mao, Li-jun

2016-01-01

Conditionally replicating adenoviruses have emerged as novel therapeutic agents for cancer. This study aimed to evaluate synergistic antitumor activity of replication-competent adenovirus armed with interleukin (IL)-18 (ZD55-IL-18) and dacarbazine (DTIC) against melanoma. Melanoma A375 cells or nude mouse tumor xenografts were treated with ZD55-IL-18 alone or together with DTIC. The results showed that ZD55-IL-18 competently replicated in A375 cells and expressed IL-18, and these were not affected by DTIC. ZD55-IL-18 enhanced the cytotoxicity of DTIC accompanied by increased apoptosis. Moreover, ZD55-IL-18 and DTIC synergistically inhibited the growth but promoted the apoptosis of A375 xenografts and inhibited vascular endothelial growth factor expression and lung metastasis in xenografts of nude mice. In conclusion, this is the first study to show synergistic anticancer activity of ZD55-IL-18 and DTIC for malignant melanoma. Our results provide evidence that chemo-gene-viro therapeutic approach has greater potential for malignant cancers than conventional chemotherapy or gene therapy. PMID:27895465

YB-1, the E2F Pathway, and Regulation of Tumor Cell Growth

PubMed Central

Samuel, Weini; Cao, Helen; Patel, Rachna; Mehta, Reena; Stern, J. Lewis; Reid, Glen; Woolley, Adele G.; Miller, Lance D.; Black, Michael A; Shelling, Andrew N.; Print, Cristin G.; Braithwaite, Antony W.

2012-01-01

Background Y-box binding factor 1 (YB-1) has been associated with prognosis in many tumor types. Reduced YB-1 expression inhibits tumor cell growth, but the mechanism is unclear. Methods YB-1 mRNA levels were compared with tumor grade and histology using microarray data from 771 breast cancer patients and with disease-free survival and distant metastasis–free survival using data from 375 of those patients who did not receive adjuvant therapy. Microarrays were further searched for genes that had correlated expression with YB-1 mRNA. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) was used to study the effects of reduced YB-1 expression on growth of three tumor cell lines (MCF-7 breast, HCT116 colon, and A549 lung cancer cells), on tumorigenesis by A549 cells in nude mice, and on global transcription in the three cancer cell lines. Reporter gene assays were used to determine whether YB-1 siRNAs affected the expression of E2F1, and chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to determine whether YB-1 bound to various E2F promoters as well as E2F1-regulated promoters. All P values were from two-sided tests. Results YB-1 levels were elevated in more aggressive tumors and were strongly associated with poor disease-free survival and distant metastasis–free survival. YB-1 expression was often associated with the expression of genes with E2F sites in their promoters. Cells expressing YB-1 siRNA grew substantially more slowly than control cells and formed tumors less readily in nude mice. Transcripts that were altered in cancer cell lines with YB-1 siRNA included 32 genes that are components of prognostic gene expression signatures. YB-1 regulated expression of an E2F1 promoter–reporter construct in A549 cells (eg, relative E2F1 promoter activity with control siRNA = 4.04; with YB-1 siRNA = 1.40, difference= −2.64, 95% confidence interval = −3.57 to −1.71, P < .001) and bound to the promoters of several well-defined E2F1 target genes. Conclusion YB-1 expression is associated with the activity of E2F transcription factors and may control tumor cell growth by this mechanism. PMID:22205655

Classification of biological cells using a sound wave based flow cytometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Strohm, Eric M.; Gnyawali, Vaskar; Van De Vondervoort, Mia; Daghighi, Yasaman; Tsai, Scott S. H.; Kolios, Michael C.

2016-03-01

A flow cytometer that uses sound waves to determine the size of biological cells is presented. In this system, a microfluidic device made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was developed to hydrodynamically flow focus cells in a single file through a target area. Integrated into the microfluidic device was an ultrasound transducer with a 375 MHz center frequency, aligned opposite the transducer was a pulsed 532 nm laser focused into the device by a 10x objective. Each passing cell was insonfied with a high frequency ultrasound pulse, and irradiated with the laser. The resulting ultrasound and photoacoustic waves from each cell were analyzed using signal processing methods, where features in the power spectra were compared to theoretical models to calculate the cell size. Two cell lines with different size distributions were used to test the system: acute myeloid leukemia cells (AML) and melanoma cells. Over 200 cells were measured using this system. The average calculated diameter of the AML cells was 10.4 +/- 2.5 μm using ultrasound, and 11.4 +/- 2.3 μm using photoacoustics. The average diameter of the melanoma cells was 16.2 +/- 2.9 μm using ultrasound, and 18.9 +/- 3.5 μm using photoacoustics. The cell sizes calculated using ultrasound and photoacoustic methods agreed with measurements using a Coulter Counter, where the AML cells were 9.8 +/- 1.8 μm and the melanoma cells were 16.0 +/- 2.5 μm. These results demonstrate a high speed method of assessing cell size using sound waves, which is an alternative method to traditional flow cytometry techniques.

Ustiloxin G, a New Cyclopeptide Mycotoxin from Rice False Smut Balls.

PubMed

Wang, Xiaohan; Wang, Jian; Lai, Daowan; Wang, Weixuan; Dai, Jungui; Zhou, Ligang; Liu, Yang

2017-02-10

Ustiloxins were cyclopeptide mycotoxins from rice false smut balls (FSBs) that formed in rice spikelets infected by the fungal pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens . To investigate the chemical diversity of these metabolites and their bioactivities, one new cyclopeptide, ustiloxin G ( 1 ), together with four known congeners-ustiloxins A ( 2 ), B ( 3 ), D ( 4 ), and F ( 5 )-were isolated from water extract of rice FSBs. Their structures were elucidated by analyses of their physical and spectroscopic data, including ultraviolet spectrometry (UV), infrared spectroscopy (IR), 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and high-resolution electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS). All the compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic as well as radicle and germ elongation inhibitory activities. Ustiloxin B ( 3 ) showed the best activity against the cell line BGC-823 with an IC 50 value of 1.03 µM, while ustiloxin G ( 1 ) showed moderate activity against the cell lines A549 and A375 with IC 50 values of 36.5 µM and 22.5 µM, respectively. Ustiloxins A ( 2 ), B ( 3 ), and G ( 1 ) showed strong inhibition of radicle and germ elongation of rice seeds. When their concentrations were at 200 µg/mL, the inhibitory ratios of radicle and germ elongation were more than 90% and 50%, respectively, the same effect as that of positive control (glyphosate). They also induced abnormal swelling of the roots and germs of rice seedlings.

Patient population with multiple myeloma and transitions across different lines of therapy in the USA: an epidemiologic model.

PubMed

Cid Ruzafa, Javier; Merinopoulou, Evie; Baggaley, Rebecca F; Leighton, Pamela; Werther, Winifred; Felici, Diana; Cox, Andrew

2016-08-01

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a progressive, malignant neoplasia with a worldwide, age-standardized annual incidence of 1.5 per 100 000 individuals and 5-year prevalence around 230 000 patients. Main favorable prognostic factors are younger age, low/standard cytogenetic risk, and undergoing stem cell transplantation. Our aim was to estimate the size of the patient population with MM eligible to receive a new MM therapy at different lines of therapy in the USA. We constructed a compartmental, differential equation model representing the flow of MM patients from diagnosis to death, via two possible treatment pathways and distinguished in four groups based on prognostic factors. Parameters were obtained from published references, available statistics, and assumptions. The model was used to estimate number of diagnosed MM patients and number of patient transitions from one line of therapy to the next over 1 year. Model output included 95% credible intervals from probabilistic sensitivity analyses. The base-case estimates were 80 219 patients living with MM, including 70 375 on treatment, 780 symptomatic untreated patients, and 9064 asymptomatic untreated patients. Over a 1-year period, the number of MM patients on treatment line 1 was estimated at 23 629 (credible intervals 22 236-25 029), and the number of transitions from treatment line 1 to treatment line 2 was estimated at 14 423. The size of the patient population with MM on different lines of therapy and in patient subgroups of interest estimated from this epidemiologic model can be used to assess the number of patients who could benefit from new MM therapies and their corresponding budgetary impact. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Perfluorooctanoic Acid Exposure Suppresses T-independent Antibody Responses

EPA Science Inventory

Exposure to  3.75mg/kg of perfluoroocatnoic acid (PFOA) for 15d suppresses T-dependent antibody responses (TDAR), suggesting that T helper cells and/or B cells/plasma cells may be impacted. This study evaluated effects of PFOA exposure on the T cell-independent antibody response...

Predictors of immunological failure of antiretroviral therapy among HIV infected patients in Ethiopia: a matched case-control study.

PubMed

Teshome, Wondu; Asefa, Anteneh; Assefa, Anteneh

2014-01-01

In resource constrained settings, immunological assessment through CD4 count is used to assess response to first line Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (HAART). In this study, we aim to investigate factors associated with immunological treatment failure. A matched case-control study design was used. Cases were subjects who already experienced immunological treatment failure and controls were those without immunological failure after an exactly or approximately equivalent duration of first line treatment with cases. Data were analyzed using SPSS v16.0. Conditional logistic regression was carried out. A total of 134 cases and 134 controls were included in the study. At baseline, the mean age ± 1 SD of cases was 37.5 ± 9.7 years whereas it was 36.9 ± 9.2 years among controls. The median baseline CD4 counts of cases and controls were 121.0 cells/µl (IQR: 47-183 cells/µl) and 122.0 cells/µl (IQR: 80.0-189.8 cells/µl), respectively. The median rate of CD4 cells increase was comparable for the two groups in the first six months of commencing HAART (P = 0.442). However, the median rate of CD4 increase was significantly different for the two groups in the next 6 months period (M6 to M12). The rate of increment was 8.8 (IQR: 0.5, 14.6) and 1.8 (IQR: 8.8, 11.3) cells/µl/month for controls and cases, respectively (Mann-Whitney U test, P = 0.003). In conditional logistic regressions grouped baseline CD4 count (P = 0.028), old age group and higher educational status (P<0.001) were significant predictors of immunological treatment failure. Subjects with immunological treatment failure have an optimal rate of immunological recovery in the first 6 months of treatment with first line HAART, but relative to the non-failing group the rate declines at a later period, notably between 6 and 12 months. Low baseline CD4 count, old age and higher educational status were associated with immunological treatment failure.

Ibrutinib inhibits BTK-driven NF-κB p65 activity to overcome bortezomib-resistance in multiple myeloma

PubMed Central

Murray, Megan Y; Zaitseva, Lyubov; Auger, Martin J; Craig, Jenny IO; MacEwan, David J; Rushworth, Stuart A; Bowles, Kristian M

2015-01-01

Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a haematologic malignancy characterized by the accumulation of clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Over the last 10–15 y the introduction of the proteasome-inhibitor bortezomib has improved MM prognosis, however relapse due to bortezomib-resistance is inevitable and the disease, at present, remains incurable. To model bortezomib-resistant MM we generated bortezomib-resistant MM cell lines (n = 4 ) and utilised primary malignant plasma cells from patients relapsing after bortezomib treatment (n = 6 ). We identified enhanced Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) activity in bortezomib-resistant MM cells and found that inhibition of BTK, either pharmacologically with ibrutinib (0.5 μM) or via lenti-viral miRNA-targeted BTK interference, re-sensitized previously bortezomib-resistant MM cells to further bortezomib therapy at a physiologically relevant concentration (5 nM). Further analysis of pro-survival signaling revealed a role for the NF-κB p65 subunit in MM bortezomib-resistance, thus a combination of BTK and NF-κB p65 inhibition, either pharmacologically or via further lenti-viral miRNA NF-κB p65 interference, also restored sensitivity to bortezomib, significantly reducing cell viability (37.5 ± 6 .9 %, ANOVA P ≤ 0 .001). Accordingly, we propose the clinical evaluation of a bortezomib/ibrutinib combination therapy, including in patients resistant to single-agent bortezomib. PMID:25565020

Ibrutinib inhibits BTK-driven NF-κB p65 activity to overcome bortezomib-resistance in multiple myeloma.

PubMed

Murray, Megan Y; Zaitseva, Lyubov; Auger, Martin J; Craig, Jenny Io; MacEwan, David J; Rushworth, Stuart A; Bowles, Kristian M

2015-01-01

Multiple Myeloma (MM) is a haematologic malignancy characterized by the accumulation of clonal plasma cells in the bone marrow. Over the last 10-15 y the introduction of the proteasome-inhibitor bortezomib has improved MM prognosis, however relapse due to bortezomib-resistance is inevitable and the disease, at present, remains incurable. To model bortezomib-resistant MM we generated bortezomib-resistant MM cell lines (n = 4 ) and utilised primary malignant plasma cells from patients relapsing after bortezomib treatment (n = 6 ). We identified enhanced Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) activity in bortezomib-resistant MM cells and found that inhibition of BTK, either pharmacologically with ibrutinib (0.5 μM) or via lenti-viral miRNA-targeted BTK interference, re-sensitized previously bortezomib-resistant MM cells to further bortezomib therapy at a physiologically relevant concentration (5 nM). Further analysis of pro-survival signaling revealed a role for the NF-κB p65 subunit in MM bortezomib-resistance, thus a combination of BTK and NF-κB p65 inhibition, either pharmacologically or via further lenti-viral miRNA NF-κB p65 interference, also restored sensitivity to bortezomib, significantly reducing cell viability (37.5 ± 6 .9 %, ANOVA P ≤ 0 .001). Accordingly, we propose the clinical evaluation of a bortezomib/ibrutinib combination therapy, including in patients resistant to single-agent bortezomib.

miR-200/375 control epithelial plasticity-associated alternative splicing by repressing the RNA-binding protein Quaking.

PubMed

Pillman, Katherine A; Phillips, Caroline A; Roslan, Suraya; Toubia, John; Dredge, B Kate; Bert, Andrew G; Lumb, Rachael; Neumann, Daniel P; Li, Xiaochun; Conn, Simon J; Liu, Dawei; Bracken, Cameron P; Lawrence, David M; Stylianou, Nataly; Schreiber, Andreas W; Tilley, Wayne D; Hollier, Brett G; Khew-Goodall, Yeesim; Selth, Luke A; Goodall, Gregory J; Gregory, Philip A

2018-06-05

Members of the miR-200 family are critical gatekeepers of the epithelial state, restraining expression of pro-mesenchymal genes that drive epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and contribute to metastatic cancer progression. Here, we show that miR-200c and another epithelial-enriched miRNA, miR-375, exert widespread control of alternative splicing in cancer cells by suppressing the RNA-binding protein Quaking (QKI). During EMT, QKI-5 directly binds to and regulates hundreds of alternative splicing targets and exerts pleiotropic effects, such as increasing cell migration and invasion and restraining tumour growth, without appreciably affecting mRNA levels. QKI-5 is both necessary and sufficient to direct EMT-associated alternative splicing changes, and this splicing signature is broadly conserved across many epithelial-derived cancer types. Importantly, several actin cytoskeleton-associated genes are directly targeted by both QKI and miR-200c, revealing coordinated control of alternative splicing and mRNA abundance during EMT These findings demonstrate the existence of a miR-200/miR-375/QKI axis that impacts cancer-associated epithelial cell plasticity through widespread control of alternative splicing. © 2018 The Authors. Published under the terms of the CC BY 4.0 license.

Cytotoxicity evaluation of ZnO-eugenol (ZOE) using different ZnO structure on human gingival fibroblast

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bakhori, Siti Khadijah Mohd; Mahmud, Shahrom; Masudi, Sam'an Malik; Seeni, Azman; Mohamad, Dasmawati; Ann, Ling Chuo; Sirelkhatim, Amna

2017-07-01

Application of ZnO is widely used in many industries, such as in optoelectronic devices, automotive, textile, cosmetics, medical and dentistry. In this study, emphasis was given on ZnO-eugenol (ZOE) that has been used in dental restoration. ZOE contained 80% ZnO and 20% eugenol. ZOE exhibited selective toxicity that could kill bacteria but safe on human cells. The safety of ZOE on humans is critically important. Two types of ZnO with different morphology, namely ZnO-A and ZnO-K were used to make ZOE (ZOE-A and ZOE-K) and the cytotoxicity level on human gingival fibroblast (HGF) cell line were evaluated. Both ZnO were characterized for its morphology and structural using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), respectively. The cytotoxicity level was evaluated using CCK-8 assay where the percentage of viable cells after 72 h were observed. The result showed ZnO-A, containing mostly rod-like shape with a crystallite size of 37.5 nm, had a higher percentage of viable cells after 72 h. Sample ZnO-K, containing irregular shape morphology with bigger crystallite size of 42.2 nm, had a lower percentage of viable cells after 72 h. The HGF cell line was treated with extract dilution of ZOE-A and ZOE-K at 5, 10 and 15%, respectively. At 15% of extracts dilution, 97.3% of the HGF cells survived (for ZOE-A) while the survival percentage of ZOE-K was only 88.1%. This fact was probably due to the larger surface-to-volume ratio of ZnO-A that gave better interlocking bond in ZOE-A. This interlocking bond can prevent the ZnO and eugenol elements leaching out from the ZOE matrix thereby decrease in cytotoxicity effects on HGF.

A new cytotoxic sesquiterpene quinone produced by Penicillium sp. F00120 isolated from a deep sea sediment sample.

PubMed

Lin, Xiuping; Zhou, Xuefeng; Wang, Fazuo; Liu, Kaisheng; Yang, Bin; Yang, Xianwen; Peng, Yan; Liu, Juan; Ren, Zhe; Liu, Yonghong

2012-01-01

A new fungal strain, displaying strong toxic activity against brine shrimp larvae, was isolated from a deep sea sediment sample collected at a depth of 1300 m. The strain, designated as F00120, was identified as a member of the genus Penicillium on the basis of morphology and ITS sequence analysis. One new sesquiterpene quinone, named penicilliumin A (1), along with two known compounds ergosterol (2) and ergosterol peroxide (3), were isolated and purified from the cultures of F00120 by silica gel column, Sephadex LH-20 column, and preparative thin layer chromatography. Their structures were elucidated by detailed nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and mass spectroscopic (MS) analysis as well as comparison with literature data. The new compound penicilliumin A inhibited in vitro proliferation of mouse melanoma (B16), human melanoma (A375), and human cervical carcinoma (Hela) cell lines moderately.

The effects of phototherapy and melanocytes on keratinocytes

PubMed Central

Tang, Luyan; Wu, Wenyu; Fu, Wenwen; Hu, Yao

2018-01-01

Phototherapy is widely used in the treatment of vitiligo. Previous studies have focused on the effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation on melanocytes; however, the biological effects of phototherapy and melanocytes on keratinocytes remain to be elucidated. To investigate and assess the effects of clinically doses of broad band (BB)-UVA, narrow band (NB)-UVB and melanocytes on human keratinocytes in vitro, clinical doses of BB-UVA or NB-UVB radiation and human melanoma cell A375 co-culture were performed as stress divisors to HaCaT cells. Cell proliferation, expression of protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) and nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 mRNA, lipid peroxidation and intracellular antioxidant level of keratinocytes were analyzed. It was demonstrated that UV radiation inhibited the proliferation of cells apart from following exposure to low dose (1 J/cm2) UVA. Medium dose (5 J/cm2) UVA radiation had no adverse effects on lipid peroxidation and increased antioxidant levels in HaCaT cells. Medium (200 mJ/cm2) and high (400 mJ/cm2) doses of UVB radiation induced cellular damage due to increased lipid peroxidation as indicated by levels of malondialdehyde. Furthermore, A375 co-culture treatment induced a similar effect on the lipid peroxidation of HaCaT as with low dose UVB radiation. Therefore, the results of the present study determined that clinical doses of BB-UVA and NB-UVB radiation had varying effects on proliferation and related protein levels in HaCaT cells. Co-culture with A375 had similar effects as those of low dose UVA and UVB radiation, in which the PAR-2 expression was significantly upregulated. PMID:29545869

Estrogen receptor beta-mediated proliferative inhibition and apoptosis in human breast cancer by calycosin and formononetin.

PubMed

Chen, Jian; Zhao, Xinge; Ye, Yu; Wang, Yong; Tian, Jing

2013-01-01

Calycosin and formononetin are two main components of isoflavones. In our previous studies, we have respectively reported their antitumor activities on breast cancer cell MCF-7. To further investigate the feasibility of isoflavones in clinically treating breast carcinoma, here we specifically focused on the comparison between calycosin and formononetin, along with the relevant mechanism. ER-positive (MCF-7, T-47D) and ER-negative breast cancer cells (MDA-231, MDA-435) were respectively treated with calycosin or formononetin. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured by MTT assay and flow cytometry. mRNA levels of ER beta (ERβ) and miR-375 were quantifed by real-time PCR. Expression of ERβ and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R), and activation of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) were determined by Western blotting. Both calycosin and formononetin impaired proliferation and triggered apoptosis of ER-positive breast cancer cells (MCF-7, T-47D) in a time- and dose-dependent manner, especially in the treatment with calycosin. However, no such effect was observed in ER-negative breast cancer cells, indicating the correlation between isoflavones-induced inhibitory effect and ERs. Thus calycosin and most sensitive MCF-7 cells were used to study the relevant signaling pathway. After the treatment of calycosin, ERβ expression was significantly increased in MCF-7 cells, followed by decrease of IGF-1R, activation of PARP-1 cleavage and downregulation of miR-375. Calycosin has an advantage on inhibiting breast cancer growth in comparison with formononetin, which is obtained by ERβ-mediated regulation of IGF-1R signaling pathways and miR-375 expression. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Monoclonal antibody (AFH1) immunoreactive on morphologically abnormal basal melanocytes within dysplastic nevi, nevocellular nevus nests, and melanoma.

PubMed

Aronson, P J; Ito, K; Fukaya, T; Hashimoto, K; Mehregan, A H

1988-04-01

The mouse monoclonal antibody AFH1 was produced using formalin-fixed, sham paraffin-embedded human melanoma cell culture line A375 as immunogen. Reactivity of this antibody was assessed by immunohistochemical techniques against formalin- or acid alcohol-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue as well as formalin- or acid alcohol-fixed unembedded lesions. Ninety-seven nevomelanocytic lesions, neurofibromas, epithelial lesions, and a plasmacellular infiltrate were evaluated. AFH1 was immunoreactive on 54 of 55 nevocytic lesions (98.2%), 15 of 16 primary melanomas (93.7%), a lentigo maligna, and nests in 21 of 21 dysplastic nevi (100%). Of 100 consecutive basal melanocytes of intraepidermal melanoma cells counted in each lesion, mean AFH1 immunoreactivity for nonnested basal melanocytes in nevocellular nevi was 3.8%; for dysplastic nevi, 13.8%; and for intraepidermal melanoma cells, 78.0%. When nonnested basal melanocytes were subdivided into cytologically normal and abnormal cell groups, AFH1 immunoreactivity was 9.4% and 72.6%, respectively. AFH1 recognition of the lentiginous portion of dysplastic nevi corresponds statistically to the appearance of abnormal melanocyte cytology, nest formation, or both. Using 50% immunoreactive nonnested melanocytes as the criterion, AFH1 seems to distinguish primary melanoma from dysplastic nevi with a sensitivity of 93.8% and a specificity of 95.8%.

Synthesis and characterization of a novel radioiodinated phenylacetamide and its homolog as theranostic agents for malignant melanoma.

PubMed

Chang, Chih-Chao; Chang, Chih-Hsien; Shen, Chih-Chieh; Chen, Chuan-Lin; Liu, Ren-Shyan; Lin, Ming-Hsien; Wang, Hsin-Ell

2016-01-01

Melanin is an attractive target for the diagnosis and treatment of malignant melanoma. This study reports the preparation and biological characterizations of N-(2-(diethylamino)ethyl)-2-(3-(123/131)I-iodo-4- hydroxyphenyl)acetamide and N-(2-(diethylamino)ethyl)-3-(3-(123/131)I-iodo-4-hydroxyphenyl)propanamide (123/131)I-IHPA and 123/131I-IHPP) as novel melanin-specific theranostic agents. These two tracers were hydrophilic, exhibited good serum stability and high binding affinity to melanin. In vitro and in vivo studies revealed rapid, high and tenacious uptakes of both 131I-IHPA and 131I-IHPP in melanotic B16F0 cell line and in C57BL/6 mice bearing B16F0 melanoma, but not in amelanonic A375 cell line and tumors. Small-animal SPECT imaging also clearly delineate B16F0 melanoma since 1 h postinjection of 123I-IHPA and 123I-IHPP in tumor-bearing mice. Owing to the favorable biodistribution of 131I-IHPA and 131I-IHPP after intravenous administration, the estimated absorption dose was low in most normal organs and relatively high in melanotic tumor. The melanin-specific binding ability, sustained tumor retention, fast normal tissues clearance and acceptable projected human dosimetry supported that these two tracers are promising theranostic agents for melanin-positive melanoma.

Suppression of antigen-specific antibody responses in mice ...

EPA Pesticide Factsheets

T-cell-dependent antibody responses (TDAR) are suppressed in female C57BL/6N mice exposed to ≥3.75 mg/kg of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) for 15 days. To determine if suppression of humoral immunity by PFOA is peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARa)-dependent and if suppression is associated with specific targeting of T- or B-cells, three separate experiments were conducted: (1) female PPARa constitutive knockout (PPARa KO; B6.129S4-Ppar(tm1Gonz)N12) and wild-type controls (WT; C57BL/6-Tac) exposed to 0, 7.5, or 30 mg PFOA/kg for 15 days were immunized on Day 11 with a T-cell-dependent antigen and sera then collected for measures of antigen-specific lgM titers (TDAR) 5 days later; (2) female C57BL/6N WT mice exposed to 0, 0.94, 1.88, 3.75, or 7.5mg PFOA/kg for 15 days were immunized with a T-cell-independent antigen on Day 11 and sera were then collected foranalyses of antigen-specific lgM titers (TIAR) 7 days later; and (3) splenic lymphocyte phenotypes were assessed in unimmunized female C57BL/6N WT mice exposed to 0, 3.75, or 7.5 mg PFOA/kg for 10 days to investigate effects of PFOA in the absence of specific immunization. Separate groups of mice were immunized with a T-cell-dependent antigen after 11 days of exposure and splenic lymphocyte sub-populations were assessed after 13 or 15 days of exposure to assess numbers of stimulated cells. The results indicated that exposure to ≥1.88mg PFOA/kg suppressed the TIAR; exposure to 30 mg PFOA/k

Enhanced targeting of triple-negative breast carcinoma and malignant melanoma by photochemical internalization of CSPG4-targeting immunotoxins.

PubMed

Eng, M S; Kaur, J; Prasmickaite, L; Engesæter, B Ø; Weyergang, A; Skarpen, E; Berg, K; Rosenblum, M G; Mælandsmo, G M; Høgset, A; Ferrone, S; Selbo, P K

2018-05-16

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and malignant melanoma are highly aggressive cancers that widely express the cell surface chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4 (CSPG4/NG2). CSPG4 plays an important role in tumor cell growth and survival and promotes chemo- and radiotherapy resistance, suggesting that CSPG4 is an attractive target in cancer therapy. In the present work, we applied the drug delivery technology photochemical internalization (PCI) in combination with the novel CSPG4-targeting immunotoxin 225.28-saporin as an efficient and specific strategy to kill aggressive TNBC and amelanotic melanoma cells. Light-activation of the clinically relevant photosensitizer TPCS2a (fimaporfin) and 225.28-saporin was found to act in a synergistic manner, and was superior to both PCI of saporin and PCI-no-drug (TPCS2a + light only) in three TNBC cell lines (MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-435 and SUM149) and two BRAFV600E mutated malignant melanoma cell lines (Melmet 1 and Melmet 5). The cytotoxic effect was highly dependent on the light dose and expression of CSPG4 since no enhanced cytotoxicity of PCI of 225.28-saporin compared to PCI of saporin was observed in the CSPG4-negative MCF-7 cells. The PCI of a smaller, and clinically relevant CSPG4-targeting toxin (scFvMEL-rGel) validated the CSPG4-targeting concept in vitro and induced a strong inhibition of tumor growth in the amelanotic melanoma xenograft A-375 model. In conclusion, the combination of the drug delivery technology PCI and CSPG4-targeting immunotoxins is an efficient, specific and light-controlled strategy for the elimination of aggressive cells of TNBC and malignant melanoma origin. This study lays the foundation for further preclinical evaluation of PCI in combination with CSPG4-targeting.

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 375 - Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... at the destination residence (or warehouse). Certified Scale—Any scale designed for weighing motor... detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the number and condition of each item. Line-Haul... survey of your goods. You have the right to waive the requirement for a physical survey if you choose...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 375 - Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... at the destination residence (or warehouse). Certified Scale—Any scale designed for weighing motor... detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the number and condition of each item. Line-Haul... survey of your goods. You have the right to waive the requirement for a physical survey if you choose...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 375 - Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... at the destination residence (or warehouse). Certified Scale—Any scale designed for weighing motor... detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the number and condition of each item. Line-Haul... survey of your goods. You have the right to waive the requirement for a physical survey if you choose...

49 CFR Appendix A to Part 375 - Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... at the destination residence (or warehouse). Certified Scale—Any scale designed for weighing motor... detailed descriptive list of your household goods showing the number and condition of each item. Line-Haul... survey of your goods. You have the right to waive the requirement for a physical survey if you choose...

Anti-prostate cancer activity of a beta-carboline alkaloid enriched extract from Rauwolfia vomitoria.

PubMed

Bemis, D L; Capodice, J L; Gorroochurn, P; Katz, A E; Buttyan, R

2006-11-01

The tropical shrub, Rauwolfia vomitoria, is a medicinal plant used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments. A bioactive beta-carboline alkaloid, alstonine, present in this extract was previously shown to have anti-cancer activity against cancer cell lines. This study considers the potential anti-prostate cancer activity of this extract in vitro and in vivo. Rauwolfia vomitoria extract standardized for beta-carboline alkaloids was tested for ability to influence the growth and survival of the human LNCaP prostate cancer cell line. A WST-1 assay was used to measure cell growth, and cell cycle analyses were conducted with flow cytometry. Western blot detection of PARP cleavage and accumulation of cells containing sub-genomic DNA indicated induction of apoptosis. Pathway specific microarray analyses were utilized to identify the effect of Rauwolfia extract on the expression of 225 genes. Mice xenografted with LNCaP cells were treated with the extract or placebo control, and tumor growth was measured for 5 weeks. The effects of the extract on xenografted tumor cell proliferation and apoptosis were measured by in situ BrdU incorporation and TUNEL staining. Rauwolfia extract decreased in vitro cell growth in a dose-dependent manner (p<0.001) and induced the accumulation of G1 phase cells. PARP cleavage demonstrated that apoptosis was induced only at the highest concentration tested (500 microg/ml) which was confirmed by detection of cells containing sub-genomic DNA. The expression of genes associated with DNA damage signaling pathway was up-regulated by Rauwolfia treatment, including that of GADD153 and MDG. The expression of a few cell cycle genes (p21, cyclin D1 and E2F1) was also modulated. These alterations were confirmed by RT-PCR. Tumor volumes were decreased by 60%, 70% and 58% in the groups fed the 75, 37.5 or 7.5 mg/kg Rauwolfia, respectively (Kruskal-Wallis test, p<0.001). The Rauwolfia vomitoria extract significantly suppressed the growth and cell cycle progression of LNCaP cells, in vitro and in vivo.

Virtual screening of B-Raf kinase inhibitors: A combination of pharmacophore modelling, molecular docking, 3D-QSAR model and binding free energy calculation studies.

PubMed

Zhang, Wen; Qiu, Kai-Xiong; Yu, Fang; Xie, Xiao-Guang; Zhang, Shu-Qun; Chen, Ya-Juan; Xie, Hui-Ding

2017-10-01

B-Raf kinase has been identified as an important target in recent cancer treatment. In order to discover structurally diverse and novel B-Raf inhibitors (BRIs), a virtual screening of BRIs against ZINC database was performed by using a combination of pharmacophore modelling, molecular docking, 3D-QSAR model and binding free energy (ΔG bind ) calculation studies in this work. After the virtual screening, six promising hit compounds were obtained, which were then tested for inhibitory activities of A375 cell lines. In the result, five hit compounds show good biological activities (IC 50 <50μM). The present method of virtual screening can be applied to find structurally diverse inhibitors, and the obtained five structurally diverse compounds are expected to develop novel BRIs. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Characterization of the host-guest complex of a curcumin analog with β-cyclodextrin and β-cyclodextrin-gemini surfactant and evaluation of its anticancer activity.

PubMed

Poorghorban, Masoomeh; Das, Umashankar; Alaidi, Osama; Chitanda, Jackson M; Michel, Deborah; Dimmock, Jonathan; Verrall, Ronald; Grochulski, Pawel; Badea, Ildiko

2015-01-01

Curcumin analogs, including the novel compound NC 2067, are potent cytotoxic agents that suffer from poor solubility, and hence, low bioavailability. Cyclodextrin-based carriers can be used to encapsulate such agents. In order to understand the interaction between the two molecules, the physicochemical properties of the host-guest complexes of NC 2067 with β-cyclodextrin (CD) or β-cyclodextrin-gemini surfactant (CDgemini surfactant) were investigated for the first time. Moreover, possible supramolecular structures were examined in order to aid the development of new drug delivery systems. Furthermore, the in vitro anticancer activity of the complex of NC 2067 with CDgemini surfactant nanoparticles was demonstrated in the A375 melanoma cell line. Physicochemical properties of the complexes formed of NC 2067 with CD or CDgemini surfactant were investigated by synchrotron-based powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Synchrotron-based small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering and size measurements were employed to assess the supramolecular morphology of the complex formed by NC 2067 with CDgemini surfactant. Lastly, the in vitro cell toxicity of the formulations toward A375 melanoma cells at various drug-to-carrier mole ratios were measured by cell viability assay. Physical mixtures of NC 2067 and CD or CDgemini surfactant showed characteristics of the individual components, whereas the complex of NC 2067 and CD or CDgemini surfactant presented new structural features, supporting the formation of the host-guest complexes. Complexes of NC 2067 with CDgemini surfactants formed nanoparticles having sizes of 100-200 nm. NC 2067 retained its anticancer activity in the complex with CDgemini surfactant for different drug-to-carrier mole ratios, with an IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) value comparable to that for NC 2067 without the carrier. The formation of host-guest complexes of NC 2067 with CD or CDgemini surfactant has been confirmed and hence the CDgemini surfactant shows good potential to be used as a delivery system for anticancer agents.

Characterization of the host–guest complex of a curcumin analog with β-cyclodextrin and β-cyclodextrin–gemini surfactant and evaluation of its anticancer activity

PubMed Central

Poorghorban, Masoomeh; Das, Umashankar; Alaidi, Osama; Chitanda, Jackson M; Michel, Deborah; Dimmock, Jonathan; Verrall, Ronald; Grochulski, Pawel; Badea, Ildiko

2015-01-01

Background Curcumin analogs, including the novel compound NC 2067, are potent cytotoxic agents that suffer from poor solubility, and hence, low bioavailability. Cyclodextrin-based carriers can be used to encapsulate such agents. In order to understand the interaction between the two molecules, the physicochemical properties of the host–guest complexes of NC 2067 with β-cyclodextrin (CD) or β-cyclodextrin–gemini surfactant (CDgemini surfactant) were investigated for the first time. Moreover, possible supramolecular structures were examined in order to aid the development of new drug delivery systems. Furthermore, the in vitro anticancer activity of the complex of NC 2067 with CDgemini surfactant nanoparticles was demonstrated in the A375 melanoma cell line. Methods Physicochemical properties of the complexes formed of NC 2067 with CD or CDgemini surfactant were investigated by synchrotron-based powder X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. Synchrotron-based small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering and size measurements were employed to assess the supramolecular morphology of the complex formed by NC 2067 with CDgemini surfactant. Lastly, the in vitro cell toxicity of the formulations toward A375 melanoma cells at various drug-to-carrier mole ratios were measured by cell viability assay. Results Physical mixtures of NC 2067 and CD or CDgemini surfactant showed characteristics of the individual components, whereas the complex of NC 2067 and CD or CDgemini surfactant presented new structural features, supporting the formation of the host–guest complexes. Complexes of NC 2067 with CDgemini surfactants formed nanoparticles having sizes of 100–200 nm. NC 2067 retained its anticancer activity in the complex with CDgemini surfactant for different drug-to-carrier mole ratios, with an IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) value comparable to that for NC 2067 without the carrier. Conclusion The formation of host–guest complexes of NC 2067 with CD or CDgemini surfactant has been confirmed and hence the CDgemini surfactant shows good potential to be used as a delivery system for anticancer agents. PMID:25609956

49 CFR 375.103 - What are the definitions of terms used in this part?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

...) FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY... household goods transportation service. This includes written or electronic database listings of your name, address, and telephone number in an on-line database. This excludes listings of your name, address, and...

49 CFR 375.103 - What are the definitions of terms used in this part?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

...) FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FEDERAL MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY... household goods transportation service. This includes written or electronic database listings of your name, address, and telephone number in an on-line database. This excludes listings of your name, address, and...

Milatuzumab-SN-38 conjugates for the treatment of CD74+ cancers.

PubMed

Govindan, Serengulam V; Cardillo, Thomas M; Sharkey, Robert M; Tat, Fatma; Gold, David V; Goldenberg, David M

2013-06-01

CD74 is an attractive target for antibody-drug conjugates (ADC), because it internalizes and recycles after antibody binding. CD74 mostly is associated with hematologic tumors but is expressed also in solid cancers. Therefore, ADCs of the humanized anti-CD74 antibody, milatuzumab, were examined for the therapy of CD74-expressing solid tumors. Milatuzumab-doxorubicin and two milatuzumab-SN-38 conjugates with cleavable linkers, differing in their stability in serum and how they release SN-38 in the lysosome, were prepared. CD74 expression was determined by flow cytometry and immunohistology. In vitro cytotoxicity and in vivo therapeutic studies were conducted in the human cancer cell lines A-375 (melanoma), HuH-7 and Hep-G2 (hepatoma), Capan-1 (pancreatic), NCI-N87 (gastric), and Raji Burkitt lymphoma. The milatuzumab-SN-38 ADC was compared with SN-38 ADCs prepared with anti-Trop-2 and anti-CEACAM6 antibodies in xenografts expressing their target antigens. Milatuzumab-doxorubicin was most effective in the lymphoma model, whereas in A-375 and Capan-1 solid tumors, only milatuzumab-SN-38 showed a therapeutic benefit. Despite much lower surface expression of CD74 than Trop-2 or CEACAM6, milatuzumab-SN-38 had similar efficacy in Capan-1 as anti-Trop-2-SN-38, but in NCI-N87, anti-CEACAM6 and anti-Trop-2 conjugates were superior. Studies in two hepatoma lines at a single dose level showed significant benefit over saline controls but not against an irrelevant immunoglobulin G conjugate. CD74 is a suitable target for ADCs in some solid tumor xenografts, with efficacy largely influenced by uniformity of CD74 expression and with SN-38 conjugates providing the best therapeutic responses; SN-38 conjugates were preferable in solid cancers, whereas doxorubicin ADC was better in lymphoma tested. ©2013 AACR

Immune evasion via PD-1/PD-L1 on NK cells and monocyte/macrophages is more prominent in Hodgkin lymphoma than DLBCL

PubMed Central

Vari, Frank; Arpon, David; Keane, Colm; Hertzberg, Mark S.; Talaulikar, Dipti; Jain, Sanjiv; Cui, Qingyan; Han, Erica; Tobin, Josh; Bird, Robert; Cross, Donna; Hernandez, Annette; Gould, Clare; Birch, Simone

2018-01-01

Much focus has been on the interaction of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) on malignant B cells with programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) on effector T cells in inhibiting antilymphoma immunity. We sought to establish the contribution of natural killer (NK) cells and inhibitory CD163+ monocytes/macrophages in Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). Levels of PD-1 on NK cells were elevated in cHL relative to DLBCL. Notably, CD3−CD56hiCD16-ve NK cells had substantially higher PD-1 expression relative to CD3−CD56dimCD16+ cells and were expanded in blood and tissue, more marked in patients with cHL than patients with DLBCL. There was also a raised population of PD-L1-expressing CD163+ monocytes that was more marked in patients with cHL compared with patients with DLBCL. The phenotype of NK cells and monocytes reverted back to normal once therapy (ABVD [doxorubicin 25 mg/m2, bleomycin 10 000 IU/m2, vinblastine 6 mg/m2, dacarbazine 375 mg/m2, all given days 1 and 15, repeated every 28 days] or R-CHOP [rituximab 375 mg/m2, cyclophosphamide 750 mg/m2 IV, doxorubicin 50 mg/m2 IV, vincristine 1.4 mg/m2 (2 mg maximum) IV, prednisone 100 mg/day by mouth days 1-5, pegfilgrastim 6 mg subcutaneously day 4, on a 14-day cycle]) had commenced. Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) expressed high levels of PD-L1/PD-L2 within diseased lymph nodes. Consistent with this, CD163/PD-L1/PD-L2 gene expression was also elevated in cHL relative to DLBCL tissues. An in vitro functional model of TAM-like monocytes suppressed activation of PD-1hi NK cells, which was reversed by PD-1 blockade. In line with these findings, depletion of circulating monocytes from the blood of pretherapy patients with cHL and patients with DLBCL enhanced CD3−CD56hiCD16-ve NK-cell activation. We describe a hitherto unrecognized immune evasion strategy mediated via skewing toward an exhausted PD-1-enriched CD3−CD56hiCD16-ve NK-cell phenotype. In addition to direct inhibition of NK cells by the malignant B cell, suppression of NK cells can occur indirectly by PD-L1/PD-L2-expressing TAMs. The mechanism is more prominent in cHL than DLBCL, which may contribute to the clinical sensitivity of cHL to PD-1 blockade. PMID:29449276

Antiproliferative Activity and Induction of Apoptosis in Human Melanoma Cells by Houttuynia cordata Thunb Extract.

PubMed

Yanarojana, Mongkol; Nararatwanchai, Thamthiwat; Thairat, Sarut; Tancharoen, Salunya

2017-12-01

To analyze the apoptotic effect of Houttuynia cordata Thunb (HCT) extract on human melanoma A375 cells and its underlying mechanisms. The effects of HCT on cell death were determined using the MTT assay. Hoechst 33342 staining was conducted to confirm the detection of cell apoptosis. Caspase-3 and caspase-8 mRNA and cleaved protein levels were investigated by RT-PCR and western blotting, respectively. The release of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) were determined by ELISA. Caspase-3 and caspase-8 specific inhibitors suppressed HCT-induced cell death. HCT increased caspase-3 and caspase-8 mRNA, protein levels, and caspase activities in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. HCT induced MAPK phosphorylation in a time-dependent fashion. Pretreatment of cells with a selective inhibitor of p38 MAPK reduced apoptosis and reversed the levels of HMGB1 release in response to HCT treatment. HCT induces A375 programmed cell death by activating the caspase-dependent pathway and by p38 phosphorylation associated with HMGB1 reduction. Copyright© 2017, International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. George J. Delinasios), All rights reserved.

Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle-Poly I:C RNA Complexes: Implication as Therapeutics against Experimental Melanoma.

PubMed

Ramani, Meghana; Mudge, Miranda C; Morris, R Tyler; Zhang, Yuntao; Warcholek, Stanislaw A; Hurst, Miranda N; Riviere, Jim E; DeLong, Robert K

2017-03-06

There is current interest in harnessing the combined anticancer and immunological effect of nanoparticles (NPs) and RNA. Here, we evaluate the bioactivity of poly I:C (pIC) RNA, bound to anticancer zinc oxide NP (ZnO-NP) against melanoma. Direct RNA association to unfunctionalized ZnO-NP is shown by observing change in size, zeta potential, and absorption/fluorescence spectra upon complexation. RNA corona was visualized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for the first time. Binding constant (K b = 1.6-2.8 g -1 L) was determined by modified Stern-Volmer, absorption, and biological surface activity index analysis. The pIC-ZnO-NP complex increased cell death for both human (A375) and mouse (B16F10) cell lines and suppressed tumor cell growth in BALB/C-B16F10 mouse melanoma model. Ex vivo tumor analysis indicated significant molecular activity such as changes in the level of phosphoproteins JNK, Akt, and inflammation markers IL-6 and IFN-γ. High throughput proteomics analysis revealed zinc oxide and poly I:C-specific and combinational patterns that suggested possible utility as an anticancer and immunotherapeutic strategy against melanoma.

Simulation of Zr content in TiZrCuNi brazing filler metal for Ti6Al4V alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yue, Xishan; Xie, Zonghong; Jing, Yongjuan

2017-07-01

To optimize the Zr content in Ti-based filler metal, the covalent electron on the nearest atoms bond in unit cell ( n A u-v ) with Ti-based BCC structure was calculated, in which the brazing temperature was considered due to its influence on the lattice parameter. Based on EET theory (The Empirical Electron Theory for solid and molecules), n_{{A}}^{{u - v}} represents the strength of the unit cell with defined element composition and structure, which reflects the effect from solid solution strengthening on the strength of the unit cell. For Ti-Zr-15Cu-10Ni wt% filler metal, it kept constant as 0.3476 with Zr as 37.5˜45 wt% and decreased to 0.333 with Zr decreasing from 37.5 to 25 wt%. Finally, it increased up to 0.3406 with Zr as 2˜10 wt%. Thus, Ti-based filler metal with Zr content being 2˜10 wt% is suggested based on the simulation results. Moreover, the calculated covalent electron of n A u-v showed good agreement with the hardness of the joint by filler 37.5Zr and 10Zr. The composition of Ti-10Zr-15Cu-10Ni wt% was verified in this study with higher tensile strength of the brazing joint and uniform microstructure of the interface.

Switching to second-line ART in relation to mortality in a large Tanzanian HIV cohort.

PubMed

Hawkins, Claudia; Hertzmark, Ellen; Spiegelman, Donna; Muya, Aisa; Ulenga, Nzovu; Kim, Sehee; Khudyakov, Polyna; Christian, Beatrice; Sando, David; Aris, Eric; Fawzi, Wafaie

2017-07-01

In a large cohort of HIV-infected Tanzanians, we assessed: (i) rates of first-line treatment failure and switches to second-line ART; (ii) the effect of switching to second-line ART on death and loss to follow-up; and (iii) treatment outcomes on second-line ART by regimen. HIV-1-infected adults (≥15 years) initiated on first-line ART between November 2004 and September 2012, and who remained on initial therapy for at least 24 weeks before switching, were studied. Survival analyses were conducted to examine the effect of second-line ART on mortality and loss to follow-up in: (i) the whole cohort; (ii) all patients eligible for second-line ART by immunological failure (IF) and/or virological failure (VF) criteria; and (iii) patients eligible by VF criteria. In total, 47 296 HIV-infected patients [mean age 37.5 (SD 9.5) years, CD4 175 (SD 158) cells/mm 3 , 71% female] were included in the analyses. Of these, 1760 (3.7%) patients switched to second-line ART (incidence rate = 1.7/100 person-years). Higher rates of mortality were observed in switchers versus non-switchers in all patients and patients with ART failure using IF/VF criteria. Switching only protected against mortality in patients with ART failure defined virologically and with the highest level of adherence [switching versus non-switching; >95% adherence; adjusted HR = 0.50 (95% CI = 0.26-0.93); P  =   0.03]. Switching patients to second-line ART may only be beneficial in a select group of patients who are virologically monitored and demonstrate good adherence. Our data emphasize the need for routine viral load monitoring and aggressive adherence interventions in HIV programmes in sub-Saharan Africa. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. All rights reserved. For Permissions, please email: journals.permissions@oup.com.

Circulating microRNAs and treatment response in the Phase II SWOG S0925 study for patients with new metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer.

PubMed

Cheng, Heather H; Plets, Melissa; Li, Hongli; Higano, Celestia S; Tangen, Catherine M; Agarwal, Neeraj; Vogelzang, Nicholas J; Hussain, Maha; Thompson, Ian M; Tewari, Muneesh; Yu, Evan Y

2018-02-01

Previous studies suggest circulating, blood-based microRNAs (miRNAs) may serve as minimally invasive prostate cancer biomarkers, however there is limited data from prospective clinical trials. Here, we explore the role of candidate plasma miRNAs as potential biomarkers in the SWOG 0925 randomized phase II study of androgen deprivation combined with cixutumumab versus androgen deprivation alone in patients with new metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. Correlative biospecimens, including circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and plasma for miRNA analysis, were collected at baseline and after 12 weeks on treatment from 50 patients enrolled on SWOG 0925. Circulating microRNAs were quantified using real-time RT-PCR microRNA array that allowed specific analysis of previously identified candidate miRNAs (miR-141, miR-200a, miR-200b, miR-210, and miR-375) as well as discovery analysis to identify new candidate miRNAs. MiRNA levels were correlated to previously reported CTC counts using CellSearch® (Veridex) and with the primary study outcome of 28-week PSA response (≤0.2, 0.2 to ≤4.0, or >4.0 ng/mL), previously shown to correlate with overall survival. We observed a correlation between baseline circulating miR-141, miR-200a, and miR-375 levels with baseline CTCs. Baseline miR-375 levels were associated with 28-week PSA response (≤0.2, 0.2 to ≤4.0, or >4.0 ng/mL, P = 0.007). Using ROC curve analysis, there was no significant difference between baseline miR-375 and baseline CTC in predicting 28-week PSA response (≤0.2 vs >0.2 ng/mL). To discover novel candidate miRNAs, we analyzed 365 miRNAs for association with the 28-week PSA response endpoint and identified new candidate miRNAs along with the existing candidates miR-375 and miR-200b (P = 0.0012, P = 0.0046, respectively. Baseline plasma miR-141, miR-200a, and miR-375 levels are associated with baseline CTC count. Baseline miR-375 was also associated with the trial endpoint of 28-week PSA response. Our results provide evidence that circulating miRNA biomarkers may have value as prognostic biomarkers and warrant further study in larger prospective clinical trials. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Simulation calculations of efficiencies and silicon consumption for CH3NH3PbI3-x-y Br x Cl y /crystalline silicon tandem solar cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lili; Xie, Ziang; Tian, Fuyang; Qin, Guogang

2017-04-01

Much attention has been paid to two-subcell tandem solar cells (TSCs) with crystalline silicon (c-Si) as the bottom cell (TSC-Si). Previous works have pointed out that the optimal band gap, E g, of the top cell material for a TSC-Si is around 1.75 eV. With a tunable E g and better stability than MAPbI3 (MA  =  CH3NH3), MAPbI3-x-y Br x Cl y is a promising candidate for the top cell material of a TSC-Si. In this work, calculations concerning the E g, refractive index and extinction coefficient of MAPbI3-x-y Br x Cl y are performed using first-principles calculations including the spin-orbit coupling (SOC) effect. MAPbI3-x-y Br x Cl y with five sets of x and y, which have a E g around 1.75 eV, are obtained. On this basis, absorption of the perovskite top cell is calculated applying the Lambert-Beer model (LBM) and the transfer matrix model (TMM), respectively. Considering the Auger recombination in the c-Si bottom cell and radiation coupling between the two subcells, the efficiencies for MAPbI3-x-y Br x Cl y /c-Si TSCs with the five sets of x and y are calculated. Among them, the MAPbI2.375Br0.5Cl0.125/c-Si TSC achieves the highest efficiency of 35.1% with a 440 nm thick top cell and 50 µm thick c-Si when applying the LBM. When applying the TMM, the highest efficiency of 32.5% is predicted with a 580 nm thick MAPbI2.375Br0.5Cl0.125 top cell and 50 µm thick c-Si. Compared with the limiting efficiency of 27.1% for a 190 µm thick c-Si single junction solar cell (SC), the MAPbI2.375Br0.5Cl0.125/c-Si TSC shows a superior performance of high efficiency and low c-Si consumption.

Improvement of electroporation to deliver plasmid DNA into dental follicle cells

PubMed Central

Yao, Shaomian; Rana, Samir; Liu, Dawen; Wise, Gary E.

2010-01-01

Electroporation DNA transfer is a simple and versatile approach to deliver genes. To develop an optimal electroporation protocol to deliver DNA into cells, we conducted square wave electroporation experiments with using rat dental follicle cells as follows: 1) the cells were electroporated at different electric field strengths with lac Z plasmid; 2) plasmid concentrations were tested to determine the optimal doses; 3) various concentrations of bovine serum albumin or fetal bovine serum were added to the pulsing buffer; and, 4) the pulsing durations were studied to determine the optimal duration. These experiments indicated that the optimal electroporation electric field strength was 375 V/cm, and that plasmid concentrations greater than 0.18 μg/μl were required to achieve high transfection efficiency. BSA or FBS in the pulsing buffer significantly improved cell survival and increased the number of transfected cells. The optimal pulsing duration was in the range of 45 to 120 milliseconds (ms) at 375 V/cm. Thus, an improved electroporation protocol was established by optimizing the above parameters. In turn, this electroporation protocol can be used to deliver DNA into dental follicle cells to study the roles of candidate genes in regulating tooth eruption. PMID:19830717

Synthesis, Characterization, and Anticancer Activity of Novel Lipophilic Emodin Cationic Derivatives.

PubMed

Yang, Xiang; Zhao, Wenna; Hu, Xiufang; Hao, Xianxiao; Hong, Fang; Wang, Jianlong; Xiang, Liping; Zhu, Yunhui; Yuan, Yaofeng; Ho, Rodney J Y; Wang, Wenfeng; Shao, Jingwei

2015-12-01

Seventeen novel emodin derivatives were synthesized, and the structures were confirmed by IR, H NMR, MS, and elemental analysis. The cytotoxic activity of the derivatives was evaluated against A375, BGC-823, HepG2, and HELF cells by MTT assay. Compound 9a with highest potency and low toxicity was selected to further investigate its detailed molecular mechanism. The lead compound 9a induced a loss of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential (▵Ψm), an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), release of cytochrome c and activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9. In addition, the confocal study showed that emodin derivative 9a (containing asymmetric hydrocarbon tails) was mainly localized in mitochondria, demonstrating a key role of the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway in cancer cells. Taken together, the results demonstrate that embodin derivative 9a preferentially regulates the ROS-mediated apoptosis in A375 cells through the induction of cytochrome c expression and activation of caspase-3 and caspase-9 proteins. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

SASH1 regulates melanocyte transepithelial migration through a novel Gαs-SASH1-IQGAP1-E-Cadherin dependent pathway.

PubMed

Zhou, Ding'an; Wei, Zhiyun; Deng, Shanshan; Wang, Teng; Zai, Meiqing; Wang, Honglian; Guo, Luo; Zhang, Junyu; Zhong, Hailei; He, Lin; Xing, Qinghe

2013-06-01

One important function of melanocytes (MCs) is to produce and transfer melanin to neighbouring keratinocytes (KCs) to protect epithelial cells from UV radiation. The mechanisms regulating the specific migration and localisation of the MC lineage remain unknown. We have found three heterozygous mutations that cause amino acid substitutions in the SASH1 gene in individuals with a kind of dyschromatosis. In epidermal tissues from an affected individual, we observed the increased transepithelial migration of melanocytes. Functional analyses indicate that these SASH1 mutations not only cause the increased migration of A375 cells and but also induce intensive bindings with two novel cell adhesion partners IQGAP1 and Gαs. Further, SASH1 mutations induce uniform loss of E-Cadherin in human A375 cells. Our findings suggest a new scaffold protein SASH1 to regulate IQGAP1-E-Cadherin signalling and demonstrate a novel crosstalking between GPCR signalling, calmodulin signalling for the modulation of MCs invasion. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Ustiloxin G, a New Cyclopeptide Mycotoxin from Rice False Smut Balls

PubMed Central

Wang, Xiaohan; Wang, Jian; Lai, Daowan; Wang, Weixuan; Dai, Jungui; Zhou, Ligang; Liu, Yang

2017-01-01

Ustiloxins were cyclopeptide mycotoxins from rice false smut balls (FSBs) that formed in rice spikelets infected by the fungal pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens. To investigate the chemical diversity of these metabolites and their bioactivities, one new cyclopeptide, ustiloxin G (1), together with four known congeners—ustiloxins A (2), B (3), D (4), and F (5)—were isolated from water extract of rice FSBs. Their structures were elucidated by analyses of their physical and spectroscopic data, including ultraviolet spectrometry (UV), infrared spectroscopy (IR), 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and high-resolution electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS). All the compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic as well as radicle and germ elongation inhibitory activities. Ustiloxin B (3) showed the best activity against the cell line BGC-823 with an IC50 value of 1.03 µM, while ustiloxin G (1) showed moderate activity against the cell lines A549 and A375 with IC50 values of 36.5 µM and 22.5 µM, respectively. Ustiloxins A (2), B (3), and G (1) showed strong inhibition of radicle and germ elongation of rice seeds. When their concentrations were at 200 µg/mL, the inhibitory ratios of radicle and germ elongation were more than 90% and 50%, respectively, the same effect as that of positive control (glyphosate). They also induced abnormal swelling of the roots and germs of rice seedlings. PMID:28208606

Green engineering of biomolecule-coated metallic silver nanoparticles and their potential cytotoxic activity against cancer cell lines

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasannaraj, Govindaraj; Venkatachalam, Perumal

2017-06-01

This report describes the synthesis of metallic silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using extracts of four medicinal plants (Aegle marmelos (A. marmelos), Alstonia scholaris (A. scholaris), Andrographis paniculata (A. paniculata) and Centella asiatica (C. asiatica)). The bio-conjugates were characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR), x-ray diffraction (XRD) and zeta potential. This analysis confirmed that UV-Vis spectral peaks at 375 nm, 380 nm, 420 nm and 380 nm are corresponding to A. marmelos, A. scholaris, A. paniculata and C. asiatica mediated AgNPs, respectively. SEM images revealed that all the obtained four AgNPs are predominantly spherical, fibres and rectangle in shape with an average size of 36-97 nm. SEM-EDS and XRD analysis confirmed the presence of elemental AgNPs in crystalline form for all the four nanoparticle samples. The phytochemicals of various medicinal plant extracts with different functional groups were responsible for reduction of Ag+ to AgNPs, which act as capping and stabilizing agent. Among four types of AgNPs tested for anticancer activity, the Ap mediated AgNPs had shown enhanced activity against HepG2 cells (27.01 µg ml-1) and PC3 cells (32.15 µg ml-1).

Phytochemical investigations and antiproliferative secondary metabolites from Thymus alternans growing in Slovakia.

PubMed

Dall'Acqua, Stefano; Peron, Gregorio; Ferrari, Sara; Gandin, Valentina; Bramucci, Massimo; Quassinti, Luana; Mártonfi, Pavol; Maggi, Filippo

2017-12-01

Thymus alternans Klokov (Lamiaceae) is a neglected species of the genus Thymus (Sect. Serpyllum) endemic to Carpathian area, where it is used as a flavouring agent and for medicinal purposes. The aim of the work was to identify antiproliferative constituents from the flowering aerial parts of this plant. Thymus alternans extracts were analyzed by HPLC-MS n and subjected to extensive chromatographic separations. The isolated compounds (phenolics and triterpenes) were structurally elucidated by MS and 1D and 2D NMR experiments. Essential oil (EO) composition was determined by GC-FID and GC-MS. Six purified triterpenes and EO were assayed for in vitro antiproliferative activity against a panel of human cancer cells, namely, breast (MDA-MB 231), colon (HCT-15 and HCT116), lung (U1810), pancreatic (BxPC3), melanoma (A375) and cervical carcinoma (A431) cells. The structures of the isolated compounds were achieved on the basis of H-NMR and MS experiments. Luteolin-4'-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P1), chrysoeriol-7-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P2), chrysoeriol-5-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P3), apigenin-7-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P4), rosmarinic acid (P5), rosmarinic acid-3'-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P6), caffeic acid-3-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (P7), 3α-hydroxy-urs-12,15-diene (T1), α-amyrin (T2), β-amyrin (T3), isoursenol (T4), epitaraxerol (T5), and oleanolic acid (T6). GC-MS analysis revealed that the EO of T. alternans was devoid of phenols and belonged to the nerolidol-chemotype, that is typical of the Sect. Serpyllum. The six purified triterpenes (T1-T6) were active with IC 50 ranging from 0.5 to 5 μM being comparable or better than those of reference compounds betulinic acid and cisplatin. The EO exhibited significant effects on A375, MDA-MB 231 and HCT116 cell lines with IC 50 in the range of 5-8 μg/mL. The reported results suggest that T. alternans can be considered as a good source of phytoconstituents with possible importance in the pharmaceutical field.

MicroRNA-33b, upregulated by EF24, a curcumin analog, suppresses the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and migratory potential of melanoma cells by targeting HMGA2.

PubMed

Zhang, Pu; Bai, Huiyuan; Liu, Gentao; Wang, Heyong; Chen, Feng; Zhang, Baoshun; Zeng, Panying; Wu, Chengxiang; Peng, Cong; Huang, Changjin; Song, Yang; Song, Erqun

2015-05-05

Diphenyl difluoroketone (EF24), a curcumin analog, exhibits potent anti-tumor activities by arresting cell cycle and inducing apoptosis. However, the efficacy and modes of action of EF24 on melanoma metastasis remain elusive. In this study, we found that at non-cytotoxic concentrations, EF24 suppressed cell motility and epithelial-to-mesenchymal Transition (EMT) of melanoma cell lines, Lu1205 and A375. EF24 also suppressed HMGA2 expression at mRNA and protein levels. miR-33b directly bound to HMGA2 3' untranslated region (3'-UTR) to suppress its expression as measured by dual-luciferase assay. EF24 increased expression of E-cadherin and decreased STAT3 phosphorylation and expression of the mesenchymal markers, vimentin and N-cadherin. miR-33b inhibition or HMGA2 overexpression reverted EF24-mediated suppression of EMT phenotypes. In addition, EF24 modulated the HMGA2-dependent actin stress fiber formation, focal adhesion assembly and FAK, Src and RhoA activation by targeting miR-33b. Thus, the results suggest that EF24 suppresses melanoma metastasis via upregulating miR-33b and concomitantly reducing HMGA2 expression. The observed activities of EF24 support its further evaluation as an anti-metastatic agent in melanoma therapy. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Ireland Ltd.

A six-color four-laser mobile platform for multi-spectral fluorescence imaging endoscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Black, John F.; Tate, Tyler; Keenan, Molly; Swan, Elizabeth; Utzinger, Urs; Barton, Jennifer

2015-03-01

The properties of multi-spectral fluorescence imaging using deep-UV-illumination have recently been explored using a fiber-coupled thermal source at 280 nm. The resulting images show a remarkable level of contrast thought to result from the signal being overwhelmingly generated in the uppermost few cell layers of tissue, making this approach valuable for the study of diseases that originate in the endothelial tissues of the body. With a view to extending the technique with new wavelengths, and improving beam quality for efficient small core fiber coupling we have developed a mobile self-contained tunable solid-state laser source of deep UV light. An alexandrite laser, lasing at around 750 nm is frequency doubled to produce 375 nm and then tripled to produce 250 nm light. An optical deck added to the system allows other laser sources to be incorporated into the UV beam-line and a lens system has been designed to couple these sources into a single delivery fiber with core diameters down to 50 microns. Our system incorporates five wavelengths [250 nm, 375 nm, 442 nm (HeCd), 543 nm (HeNe) and 638 nm (diode laser)] as the illumination source for a small diameter falloposcope designed for the study of the distal Fallopian tube origins of high grade serous ovarian cancer. The tunability of alexandrite offers the potential to generate other wavelengths in the 720-800, 360-400 and 240-265 nm ranges, plus other non-linear optical conversion techniques taking advantage of the high peak powers of the laser.

The Human Microbiome and Skin and Soft-Tissue Infections

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-09-23

254   Cell harvesting, RNA extraction, and RT-PCR ...................................................... 257   Primer extension and 5...contribution of the human microbiota to human health is not surprising given that the number of human-associated bacterial cells far exceeds the 37.5 trillion... cells of the human body by a factor of ~10 (27; 266). Additionally, the human 13 Figure 1. Microbiome and disease-related PubMed

Nanovesicular carrier-based formulation for skin cancer targeting: evaluation of cytotoxicity, intracellular uptake, and preclinical anticancer activity.

PubMed

Jain, Subheet Kumar; Puri, Richa; Mahajan, Mohit; Yadav, Subodh; Pathak, C M; Ganesh, N

2015-04-01

Skin cancer has turned into global epidemic leading to higher incidences among cancer stricken population. The aim of the present investigation is to evaluate the anticancer potential and intracellular uptake of a novel nanovesicular formulation of 5-FU. Detailed intracellular uptake study in conjunction with estimation of intracellular reactive oxygen species was done using skin melanoma cell lines (A375) along with cytotoxicity studies. To further obtain the mechanistic insights into inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, cell-cycle arrest studies were conducted. The preclinical anticancer activity was carried out employing in vivo DMBA-croton oil-induced skin cancer model in mice. Significant reduction in the number of papillomas was observed in skin cancer-bearing mice on treatment with nanovesicular formulation (51.4 ± 3.2%) in comparison with marketed formulation (21.3 ± 2.1%) of 5-FU. Tumor volume was found to be reduced to 46.3 ± 3.5% with prepared formulation, whereas the marketed formulation-treated group showed the reduction of 18.6 ± 1.8% in comparison with the control (untreated) group. The results of present study demonstrated that nanovesicular formulation of 5-FU possessed the enhanced anticancer activity which could be attributed to better intracellular uptake, cellular retention, and sustained release of drug.

Standardized cell samples for midIR technology development

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kastl, Lena; Rommel, Christina E.; Kemper, Björn; Schnekenburger, Jürgen

2015-03-01

The application of midIR spectroscopy towards human cell and tissue samples is impaired by the need for technical solutions and lacking sample standards for technology development. We here present the standardization of stable test samples for the continuous development and testing of novel optical system components. We have selected cell lines representing the major cellular skin constituents keratinocytes and fibroblasts (NIH-3T3, HaCaT). In addition, two skin cancer cell types (A-375 and SK-MEL-28 cells) were analyzed. Cells were seeded on CaF2 substrates and measured dried and under aqueous medium as well as fixated and unfixated. Several independent cell preparations were analyzed with an FTIR spectrometer in the wave number range from 1000 - 4000 cm-1. The obtained data demonstrate that fixed and dehydrated cells on CaF2 can be stored in pure ethanol for several weeks without significant losses in quality of the spectral properties. The established protocol of cell seeding on CaF2 substrates, chemical fixation, dehydration, storage under ethanol and air-drying is suitable for the production of reliable midIR standards. The retrieved spectra demonstrate that fixed cells on CaF2 can be prepared reproducibly; with stable midIR spectral properties over several weeks and properties mimicking reliable unfixed cells. Moreover, the fixated samples on CaF2 show clear differences in the cell type specific spectra that can be identified by principle component analysis. In summary, the standardized cell culture samples on CaF2 substrates are suitable for the development of a midIR device and the optimization of the specific midIR spectra.

Immunogenicity and safety of cell-derived MF59®-adjuvanted A/H1N1 influenza vaccine for children

PubMed Central

Knuf, Markus; Leroux-Roels, Geert; Rümke, Hans; Rivera, Luis; Pedotti, Paola; Arora, Ashwani Kumar; Lattanzi, Maria; Kieninger, Dorothee; Cioppa, Giovanni Della

2015-01-01

Mass immunization of children has the potential to decrease infection rates and prevent the transmission of influenza. We evaluated the immunogenicity, safety, and tolerability of different formulations of cell-derived MF59-adjuvanted and nonadjuvanted A/H1N1 influenza vaccine in children and adolescents. This was a randomized, single-blind, multicenter study with a total of 666 healthy subjects aged 6 months–17 y in one of 3 vaccination groups, each receiving formulations containing different amounts of influenza A/H1N1 antigen with or without MF59. A booster trivalent seasonal MF59 vaccine was administered one year after primary vaccinations. Antibody titers were assessed by hemagglutination inhibition (HI) and microneutralization assays obtained on days 1, 22, 43, 366, and 387 (3 weeks post booster). Safety was monitored throughout the study. One vaccination with 3.75 μg of A/H1N1 antigen formulated with 50% MF59 (3.75_halfMF59) or 7.5 μg of A/H1N1 antigen formulated with 100% MF59 (7.5_fullMF59) induced an HI titer ≥1:40 in >70% of children in the 1–<3, 3–8, and 9–17 y cohorts; however, 2 vaccinations with nonadjuvanted 15 μg A/H1N1 antigen were needed to achieve this response in the 1–<3 and 3–8 y cohorts. Among children aged 6–11 months, 1 dose of 7.5_fullMF59 resulted in an HI titer ≥1:40 in >70% while 2 doses of 3.75_halfMF59 were required to achieve this result. All vaccines were well tolerated. Our findings support the immunogenicity and safety of the 3.75_halfMF59 (2 doses for children <12 months) and 7.5_fullMF59 vaccine formulations for use in children and adolescents aged 6 months to 17 y The use of the 3.75_halfMF59 could have the benefit of antigen and adjuvant sparing, increasing the available vaccine doses allowing vaccination of more people. PMID:25621884

Lasing in a nematic liquid crystal cell with an interdigitated electrode system

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Shtykov, N M; Palto, S P; Umanskii, B A

2015-04-30

Waveguide lasing in a layer of a dye-doped nematic liquid crystal has been observed. The liquid-crystal layer was sandwiched between a quartz substrate and a glass cover plate on whose surface was deposited an interdigitated electrode system. This system had a period of 3.75 μm and played a dual role, namely, it created a spatial periodicity of the waveguide medium refractive index (thus creating distributed feedback) and served as a diffraction grating coupling out a part of waveguide radiation into the glass cover plate. The distributed feedback ensured lasing in the 18th diffraction order for the TE modes and inmore » the 19th order for the TM modes of the waveguide. The generated radiation was observed at the exit from the glass plate end face at the angles to the waveguide plane of 33.1 ± 1.5° for TM modes and 21.8 ± 1.8° for TE modes. The intensity and position of the TE emission line showed no regular dependence on the voltage on the electrodes. In the case of TM radiation, an increase in the voltage led to a short-wavelength shift of the laser line and to a decrease in its intensity. (lasers)« less

Impact of whole brain radiation therapy on CSF penetration ability of Icotinib in EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer patients with brain metastases: Results of phase I dose-escalation study.

PubMed

Zhou, Lin; He, Jiazhuo; Xiong, Weijie; Liu, Yongmei; Xiang, Jing; Yu, Qin; Liang, Maozhi; Zhou, Xiaojuan; Ding, Zhenyu; Huang, Meijuan; Ren, Li; Zhu, Jiang; Li, Lu; Hou, Mei; Ding, Lieming; Tan, Fenlai; Lu, You

2016-06-01

Whole-brain radiation therapy (WBRT) and epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) are both treatment options for EGFR-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with brain metastases. However, the dose-escalation toxicity and efficacy of combination therapy, and the effect of WBRT on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) penetration of EGFR-TKIs are still unclear. EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients with brain metastases were enrolled in this study, and the cohorts were constructed with a 3+3 design. The patients received icotinib with escalating doses (125-625mg, tid), and the concurrent WBRT (37.5Gy/15f/3weeks) started a week later. The CSF penetration rates of icotinib were tested before, immediately after, and 4 weeks after WBRT, respectively. Potential toxicities and benefits from dose-escalation treatment were analyzed. Fifteen patients were included in this study, 3 at each dose level from 125mg-375mg and 6 at 500mg with 3 occurred dose-limiting toxicities. The maximal tolerated dose of icotinib was 375mg tid in this combination therapy. There was a significant correlation between icotinib concentration in the CSF and plasma (R(2)=0.599, P<0.001). The CSF penetration rate of icotinib, from 1.2% to 9.7%, reached a maximum at 375mg (median, 6.1%). There was no significant difference for CSF penetration rates among the three test points (median, 4.1% vs. 2.8% vs. 2.8%, P=0.16). The intracranial objective response rate and median intracranial progression free survival are 80% and 18.9 months. WBRT plus concurrent icotinib is well tolerated in EGFR-mutated NSCLC patients with brain metastases, up to an icotinib dose of 375mg tid. The icotinib CSF concentration seemed to have a potential ceiling effect with the dose escalation, and WBRT seemed to have no significant impact on CSF penetration of icotinib till 4 weeks after the treatment. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Development of a cell-based qualitative assay for detection of neutralizing anti-human interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (hIL-1Ra) antibodies in rats.

PubMed

Gao, Jin; Li, Jingjing; Yang, Minmin; Wu, Mingyuan; Tu, Ping; Yu, Yan; Han, Wei

2015-01-01

To determine the incidence of the positive neutralizing anti-human interleukin receptor antagonist (anti-IL-1Ra), a novel assay based on the proliferation of human melanoma A375.S2 cells was developed and validated. In the presence of a growth-limiting concentration of IL-1β, A375.S2 cells were able to regain proliferation following the addition of IL-1Ra in a concentration-dependent manner. This dose-response effect enabled the validation of a standard curve for calculation of the concentration of IL-1Ra or, inversely, the concentration of neutralizing anti-IL-1Ra antibodies in cell culture medium or sera. The assay used CCK-8 as an indicator of proliferation. The dose-response relationship between rhIL-1Ra (dose range of 5-75 ng/ml rhIL-1Ra) and A375.S2 cell proliferation was sigmoidal and fitted a four-parameter logistic model. The percent coefficients of variation (%CVs) of quality control samples were 12.5 and 11.9% for intra-assay repeatability and 14.5 and 19.5% for inter-assay repeatability, while the total accuracy was in the range of 97.2-103.6%. For the neutralization assay, the optimal sample dilution factor was found to be 40-fold and the reasonable standard for positive and negative decision was calculated to be 59.4% neutralization rate. The %CVs of quality control samples were 12.7 and 24.0% for intra-assay repeatability and 11.6 and 30.0% for inter-assay repeatability. Analysis using the assay showed that rats could produce neutralizing anti-IL-1Ra antibodies after repeated intramuscular injection with rhIL-1Ra, and this response was not significantly dependent on the dose injected.

Radio frequency induced hyperthermia mediated by dextran stabilized LSMO nanoparticles: in vitro evaluation of heat shock protein response

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhayani, K. R.; Rajwade, J. M.; Paknikar, K. M.

2013-01-01

Dextran stabilized La0.7Sr0.3MnO3 (Dex-LSMO) is an alternative cancer hyperthermia agent holding considerable promise. Here, we have carried out a comparative study on radio frequency (˜264 kHz) induced Dex-LSMO mediated heating and extraneous heating (mimicking generalized hyperthermia) in terms of changes in the morphology, proliferation pattern and induction of heat shock proteins in a human melanoma cell line (A375). Our results clearly show that the cellular effects seen with extraneous heating (60 min at 43 °C) could be reproduced by just six minutes of radio frequency induced Dex-LSMO mediated heating. More importantly, the observed enhanced levels of HSP 70 and 90 (molecular markers of heat shock that trigger favorable immunological reactions) seen with Dex-LSMO mediated heating were comparable to extraneous heating. These results suggest the possible utility of Dex-LSMO as a cancer hyperthermia agent.

IGF-1R inhibition induces schedule-dependent sensitization of human melanoma to temozolomide

PubMed Central

Ramcharan, Roger; Aleksic, Tamara; Kamdoum, Wilfride Petnga; Gao, Shan; Pfister, Sophia X.; Tanner, Jordan; Bridges, Esther; Asher, Ruth; Watson, Amanda J.; Margison, Geoffrey P.; Woodcock, Mick; Repapi, Emmanouela; Li, Ji-Liang; Middleton, Mark R.; Macaulay, Valentine M.

2015-01-01

Prior studies implicate type 1 IGF receptor (IGF-1R) in mediating chemo-resistance. Here, we investigated whether IGF-1R influences response to temozolomide (TMZ), which generates DNA adducts that are removed by O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), or persist causing replication-associated double-strand breaks (DSBs). Initial assessment in 10 melanoma cell lines revealed that TMZ resistance correlated with MGMT expression (r = 0.79, p = 0.009), and in MGMT-proficient cell lines, with phospho-IGF-1R (r = 0.81, p = 0.038), suggesting that TMZ resistance associates with IGF-1R activation. Next, effects of IGF-1R inhibitors (IGF-1Ri) AZ3801 and linsitinib (OSI-906) were tested on TMZ-sensitivity, cell cycle progression and DSB induction. IGF-1Ri sensitized BRAF wild-type and mutant melanoma cells to TMZ in vitro, an effect that was independent of MGMT. Cells harboring wild-type p53 were more sensitive to IGF-1Ri, and showed schedule-dependent chemo-sensitization that was most effective when IGF-1Ri followed TMZ. This sequence sensitized to clinically-achievable TMZ concentrations and enhanced TMZ-induced apoptosis. Simultaneous or prior IGF-1Ri caused less effective chemo-sensitization, associated with increased G1 population and reduced accumulation of TMZ-induced DSBs. Clinically relevant sequential (TMZ → IGF-1Ri) treatment was tested in mice bearing A375M (V600E BRAF, wild-type p53) melanoma xenografts, achieving peak plasma/tumor IGF-1Ri levels comparable to clinical Cmax, and inducing extensive intratumoral apoptosis. TMZ or IGF-1Ri caused minor inhibition of tumor growth (gradient reduction 13%, 25% respectively), while combination treatment caused supra-additive growth delay (72%) that was significantly different from control (p < 0.01), TMZ (p < 0.01) and IGF-1Ri (p < 0.05) groups. These data highlight the importance of scheduling when combining IGF-1Ri and other targeted agents with drugs that induce replication-associated DNA damage. PMID:26497996

Physical, Textural, and Antioxidant Properties of Extruded Waxy Wheat Flour Snack Supplemented with Several Varieties of Bran.

PubMed

Fleischman, Emily F; Kowalski, Ryan J; Morris, Craig F; Nguyen, Thuy; Li, Chongjun; Ganjyal, Girish; Ross, Carolyn F

2016-09-28

Wheat represents a ubiquitous commodity and although industries valorize 10% of wheat bran, most of this antioxidant-rich byproduct gets fed to livestock. The objective of this study was to incorporate wheat bran into an extruded snack. Bran samples from hard red spring, soft white club cv. Bruehl, and purple wheat lines were added to cv. Waxy-Pen wheat flour (Triticum aestivum L.) at replacement concentrations of 0%, 12.5%, 25%, and 37.5% (w/w; n = 10). Extrudates were evaluated for antioxidant capacity, color, and physical properties. Results showed that high fiber concentrations altered several pasting properties, reduced expansion ratios (P < 0.0001), and created denser products (P < 0.0001), especially for white bran supplemented extrudates. Purple bran supplemented extrudates produced harder products compared to white and red bran treatments (P < 0.0001). Extrudates produced with 37.5% (w/w) of each bran variety absorbed more water than the control with no added bran. The oxygen radical absorption capacity assay, expressed as Trolox Equivalents, showed that extrudates made with addition of red (37.5%) and purple (37.5%) bran had higher values compared to the other treatments; the control, red, and white bran treatments had less antioxidant activity after extrusion (P < 0.0001) compared to purple bran supplemented extrudates. Purple and red brans may serve as viable functional ingredients in extruded foods given their higher antioxidant activities. Future studies could evaluate how bran variety and concentration, extruded shape, and flavor influence consumer acceptance. © 2016 Institute of Food Technologists®

Acid Ceramidase Expression Modulates the Sensitivity of A375 Melanoma Cells to Dacarbazine*

PubMed Central

Bedia, Carmen; Casas, Josefina; Andrieu-Abadie, Nathalie; Fabriàs, Gemma; Levade, Thierry

2011-01-01

Dacarbazine (DTIC) is the treatment of choice for metastatic melanoma, but its response in patients remains very poor. Ceramide has been shown to be a death effector and to play an important role in regulating cancer cell growth upon chemotherapy. Among ceramidases, the enzymes that catabolize ceramide, acid ceramidase (aCDase) has been implicated in cancer progression. Here we show that DTIC elicits a time- and dose-dependent decrease of aCDase activity and an increase of intracellular ceramide levels in human A375 melanoma cells. The loss of enzyme activity occurred as a consequence of reactive oxygen species-dependent activation of cathepsin B-mediated degradation of aCDase. These events preceded autophagic features and loss of cell viability. Down-regulation of acid but not neutral or alkaline ceramidase 2 resulted in elevated levels of ceramide and sensitization to the toxic effects of DTIC. Conversely, inducible overexpression of acid but not neutral ceramidase reduced ceramide levels and conferred resistance to DTIC. In conclusion, we report that increased levels of ceramide, due to enhanced degradation of aCDase, are in part responsible for the cell death effects of DTIC. These results suggest that down-regulation of aCDase alone or in combination with DTIC may represent a useful tool in the treatment of metastatic melanoma. PMID:21700700

Acid ceramidase expression modulates the sensitivity of A375 melanoma cells to dacarbazine.

PubMed

Bedia, Carmen; Casas, Josefina; Andrieu-Abadie, Nathalie; Fabriàs, Gemma; Levade, Thierry

2011-08-12

Dacarbazine (DTIC) is the treatment of choice for metastatic melanoma, but its response in patients remains very poor. Ceramide has been shown to be a death effector and to play an important role in regulating cancer cell growth upon chemotherapy. Among ceramidases, the enzymes that catabolize ceramide, acid ceramidase (aCDase) has been implicated in cancer progression. Here we show that DTIC elicits a time- and dose-dependent decrease of aCDase activity and an increase of intracellular ceramide levels in human A375 melanoma cells. The loss of enzyme activity occurred as a consequence of reactive oxygen species-dependent activation of cathepsin B-mediated degradation of aCDase. These events preceded autophagic features and loss of cell viability. Down-regulation of acid but not neutral or alkaline ceramidase 2 resulted in elevated levels of ceramide and sensitization to the toxic effects of DTIC. Conversely, inducible overexpression of acid but not neutral ceramidase reduced ceramide levels and conferred resistance to DTIC. In conclusion, we report that increased levels of ceramide, due to enhanced degradation of aCDase, are in part responsible for the cell death effects of DTIC. These results suggest that down-regulation of aCDase alone or in combination with DTIC may represent a useful tool in the treatment of metastatic melanoma.

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2013-11-07

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2012-05-21

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Near-Infrared Fluorescent Deoxyglucose Analog for Tumor Optical Imaging in Cell Culture and in Living Mice

PubMed Central

Cheng, Zhen; Levi, Jelena; Xiong, Zhengming; Gheysens, Olivier; Keren, Shay; Chen, Xiaoyuan; Gambhir, Sanjiv Sam

2011-01-01

2-deoxy-2-[18F]fluoro-d-glucose ([18F]FDG) has extensively been used for clinical diagnosis, staging and therapy monitoring of cancer and other diseases. Non-radioactive glucose analogs enabling the screening of the glucose metabolic rate of tumors are of particular interest for anticancer drug development. A non-radioactive fluorescent deoxyglucose analog may have many applications for both imaging of tumors and monitoring therapeutic efficacy of drugs in living animals and may eventually translate to clinical applications. We found that a fluorescent 2-deoxyglucose analog, 2-[N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl)amino]-2-deoxy-d-glucose (2-NBDG) can be delivered in several tumor cells via the glucose transporters (GLUTs). We therefore conjugated d-glucosamine with a near-infrared (NIR) fluorphor Cy5.5 and tested the feasibility of Cy5.5-d-glucosamine conjugate (Cy5.5-2DG) for NIR fluorescence imaging of tumors in a pre-clinical xenograft animal model. Cy5.5-2DG was prepared by conjugating Cy5.5 monofunctional N-hydroxysuccinimide ester (Cy5.5-NHS) and d-glucosamine followed by high-performance liquid chromatography purification. The accumulation of Cy5.5-2DG and Cy5.5-NHS in different tumor cell lines at 37 °C and 4 °C were imaged using a fluorescence microscope. Tumor targeting and retention of Cy5.5-2DG and Cy5.5-NHS in a subcutaneous U87MG glioma and A375M melanoma tumor model were evaluated and quantified by a Xenogen IVIS 200 optical cooled charged-coupled device system. Fluorescence microscopy imaging shows that Cy5.5-2DG and Cy5.5-NHS are taken up and trapped by a variety of tumor cell lines at 37 °C incubation, while they exhibit marginal uptake at 4 °C. The tumor cell uptake of Cy5.5-2DG can not be blocked by the 50 mM d-glucose, suggesting that Cy5.5-2DG may not be delivered in tumor cells by GLUTs. U87MG and A375M tumor localization were clearly visualized in living mice with both NIR fluorescent probes. Tumor/muscle contrast was clearly visible as early as 30 min post-injection, and the highest U87MG tumor/muscle ratio of 2.81 ± 0.10, 3.34 ± 0.23 were achieved 24 hours post-injection for Cy5.5-2DG and Cy5.5-NHS, respectively. While as a comparison, the micro-positron emission tomography imaging study shows that [18F]FDG preferentially localize to the U87MG tumor, with resulting tumor/muscle ratios ranging from 3.89 to 4.08 after 30 min to 2 h post-administration of the probe. In conclusion, the NIR fluorescent glucose analog, Cy5.5-2DG and Cy5.5-NHS both demonstrate tumor targeting abilities in cell culture and in living mice. More studies are warranted to further explore their application for optical tumor imaging. In order to develop NIR glucose analog with ability to targeting GLUTs/hexokinase, it is highly important to select NIR dyes with reasonable molecular size. PMID:16704203

Soluble fibrin augments platelet/tumor cell adherence in vitro and in vivo, and enhances experimental metastasis.

PubMed

Biggerstaff, J P; Seth, N; Amirkhosravi, A; Amaya, M; Fogarty, S; Meyer, T V; Siddiqui, F; Francis, J L

1999-01-01

There is considerable evidence for a relationship between hemostasis and malignancy. Since platelet adhesion to tumor cells has been implicated in the metastatic process and plasma levels of fibrinogen (Fg) and soluble fibrin (sFn) monomer are increased in cancer, we hypothesized that these molecules might enhance tumor-platelet interaction. We therefore studied binding of sFn monomer to tumor cells in a static microplate adhesion assay and determined the effect of pre-treating tumor cells with sFn on tumor cell-induced thrombocytopenia and experimental metastasis. Soluble fibrin (produced by adding thrombin to FXIII- and plasminogen-free Fg in the presence of Gly-Pro-Arg-Pro-amide (GPRP-NH2) significantly increased platelet adherence to tumor cells. This effect was primarily mediated by the integrins alphaIIb beta3 on the platelet and CD 54 (ICAM-1) on the tumor cells. Platelets adhered to untreated A375 cells (28 +/- 8 platelets/tumor cell) and this was not significantly affected by pre-treatment of the tumor cells with fibrinogen or GPRP-NH2. Although thrombin treatment increased adherence, pre-incubation of the tumor cells with sFn resulted in a further increase in platelet binding to tumor cells. In contrast to untreated tumor cells, intravenous injection of sFn-treated A 375 cells reduced the platelet count in anticoagulated mice, supporting the in vitro finding that sFn enhanced tumor cell-platelet adherence. In a more aggressive model of experimental metastasis, treating tumor cells with sFn enhanced lung seeding by 65% compared to untreated cells. Extrapolation of our data to the clinical situation suggests that coagulation activation, and subsequent increase in circulating Fn monomer, may enhance platelet adhesion to circulating tumor cells and thereby facilitate metastatic spread.

Arginine-glycine-aspartic acid-conjugated dendrimer-modified quantum dots for targeting and imaging melanoma.

PubMed

Li, Zhiming; Huang, Peng; Lin, Jing; He, Rong; Liu, Bing; Zhang, Xiaomin; Yang, Sen; Xi, Peng; Zhang, Xuejun; Ren, Qiushi; Cui, Daxiang

2010-08-01

Angiogenesis is essential for the development of malignant tumors and provides important targets for tumor diagnosis and therapy. Quantum dots have been broadly investigated for their potential application in cancer molecular imaging. In present work, CdSe quantum dots were synthesized, polyamidoamine dendrimers were used to modify surface of quantum dots and improve their solubility in water solution. Then, dendrimer-modified CdSe quantum dots were conjugated with arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) peptides. These prepared nanoprobes were injected into nude mice loaded with melanoma (A375) tumor xenografts via tail vessels, IVIS imaging system was used to image the targeting and bio-distribution of as-prepared nanoprobes. The dendrimer-modified quantum dots exhibit water-soluble, high quantum yield, and good biocompatibility. RGD-conjugated quantum dots can specifically target human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and A375 melanoma cells, as well as nude mice loaded with A735 melanoma cells. High-performance RGD-conjugated dendrimers modified quantum dot-based nanoprobes have great potential in application such as tumor diagnosis and therapy.

76 FR 4927 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

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Nutraceutic effect of free condensed tannins of Lysiloma acapulcensis (Kunth) benth on parasite infection and performance of Pelibuey sheep.

PubMed

García-Hernández, Cesar; Arece-García, Javier; Rojo-Rubio, Rolando; Mendoza-Martínez, German David; Albarrán-Portillo, Benito; Vázquez-Armijo, José Fernando; Avendaño-Reyes, Leonel; Olmedo-Juárez, Agustín; Marie-Magdeleine, Carine; López-Leyva, Yoel

2017-01-01

Forty-five Pelibuey sheep were experimentally infested with nematodes to evaluate the effect of three free condensed tannin (FCT) levels of Lysiloma acapulcensis on fecal egg counts (FECs), packed cell volumes (PCV), ocular mucosa colors (OMC), average daily gain (ADG), and adult nematode count. Five treatments were used: 12.5, 25.0, and 37.5 mg of FCT kg -1 of body weight (BW); sterile water (control); and ivermectine (0.22 mg kg -1 of BW) as chemical group. The data were processed through repeated measurement analysis. Even though the three FCT doses decreased (P < 0.05) the FEC, the highest reduction was obtained with 37.5 mg kg -1 of BW. No differences were observed in PCV and OMC. Higher ADG (P < 0.05) was observed with 37.5 mg kg -1 of BW of FCT. The count of adult nematodes (females and males) in the higher dose of FCT was similar to chemical treatment. Dose of 37.5 mg kg -1 of BW decreased the parasite infection and improved the lamb performance. Therefore, this dose could be used as a nutraceutic product in sheep production.

A Hypertension-Associated tRNAAla Mutation Alters tRNA Metabolism and Mitochondrial Function

PubMed Central

Jiang, Pingping; Wang, Meng; Xue, Ling; Xiao, Yun; Yu, Jialing; Wang, Hui; Yao, Juan; Liu, Hao; Peng, Yanyan; Liu, Hanqing; Li, Haiying; Chen, Ye

2016-01-01

In this report, we investigated the pathophysiology of a novel hypertension-associated mitochondrial tRNAAla 5655A → G (m.5655A → G) mutation. The destabilization of a highly conserved base pairing (A1-U72) at the aminoacyl acceptor stem by an m.5655A → G mutation altered the tRNAAla function. An in vitro processing analysis showed that the m.5655A → G mutation reduced the efficiency of tRNAAla precursor 5′ end cleavage catalyzed by RNase P. By using cybrids constructed by transferring mitochondria from lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from a Chinese family into mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)-less (ρo) cells, we showed a 41% reduction in the steady-state level of tRNAAla in mutant cybrids. The mutation caused an improperly aminoacylated tRNAAla, as suggested by aberrantly aminoacylated tRNAAla and slower electrophoretic mobility of mutated tRNA. A failure in tRNAAla metabolism contributed to variable reductions in six mtDNA-encoded polypeptides in mutant cells, ranging from 21% to 37.5%, with an average of a 29.1% reduction, compared to levels of the controls. The impaired translation caused reduced activities of mitochondrial respiration chains. Furthermore, marked decreases in the levels of mitochondrial ATP and membrane potential were observed in mutant cells. These caused increases in the production of reactive oxygen species in the mutant cybrids. The data provide evidence for the association of the tRNAAla 5655A → G mutation with hypertension. PMID:27161322

A DC-81-indole conjugate agent suppresses melanoma A375 cell migration partially via interrupting VEGF production and stromal cell-derived factor-1{alpha}-mediated signaling

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hsieh, Ming-Chu; Hu, Wan-Ping; Yu, Hsin-Su

2011-09-01

Pyrrolo[2,1-c][1,4]benzodiazepine (PBD) chemicals are antitumor antibiotics inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis. An indole carboxylate-PBD hybrid with six-carbon spacer structure (IN6CPBD) has been previously demonstrated to induce melanoma cell apoptosis and reduce metastasis in mouse lungs. This study aimed at investigating the efficacy of the other hybrid compound with four-carbon spacer (IN4CPBD) and elucidating its anti-metastatic mechanism. Human melanoma A375 cells with IN4CPBD treatment underwent cytotoxicity and apoptosis-associated assays. Transwell migration assay, Western blotting, and ELISA were used for mechanistic study. IN4CPBD exhibited potent melanoma cytotoxicity through interrupting G1/S cell cycle progression, increasing DNA fragmentation and hypodipoidic DNA contents, and reducing mitochondrialmore » membrane potential. Caspase activity elevation suggested that both intrinsic and extrinsic pathways were involved in IN4CPBD-induced melanoma apoptosis. IN4CPBD up-regulated p53 and p21, thereby concomitantly derailing the equilibrium between Bcl-2 and Bax levels. Transwell migration assay demonstrated that stromal cell-derived factor-1{alpha} (SDF-1{alpha}) stimulated A375 cell motility, while kinase inhibitors treatment confirmed that Rho/ROCK, Akt, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK pathways were involved in SDF-1{alpha}-enhanced melanoma migration. IN4CPBD not only abolished the SDF-1{alpha}-enhanced chemotactic motility but also suppressed constitutive MMP-9 and VEGF expression. Mechanistically, IN4CPBD down-regulated Akt, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK total proteins and MYPT1 phosphorylation. In conclusion, beyond the fact that IN4CPBD induces melanoma cell apoptosis at cytotoxic dose, the interruption in the VEGF expression and the SDF-1{alpha}-related signaling at cytostatic dose may partially constitute the rationale for its in vivo anti-metastatic potency. - Research Highlights: > A novel carboxylate-PBD hybrid as anti-melanoma drug. > IN4CPBD interrupts melanoma cell cycle progression and induces apoptosis. > IN4CPBD suppresses SDF-1{alpha}-enhanced signaling and melanoma migration. > IN4CPBD abolishes angiogenic factor production and chemotactic effect of SDF-1{alpha}. > This drug is clinically applicable to melanoma therapy.« less

Long-term efficiency of mesenchymal stromal cell-mediated CD-MSC/5FC therapy in human melanoma xenograft model.

PubMed

Kucerova, L; Skolekova, S; Demkova, L; Bohovic, R; Matuskova, M

2014-10-01

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) can be exploited as cellular delivery vehicles for the enzymes converting non-toxic prodrugs to toxic substances. Because of their inherent chemoresistance, they exert potent bystander and antitumor effect. Here we show that the human adipose tissue-derived MSC expressing fusion yeast cytosine deaminase::uracil phosphoribosyltransferase (CD-MSC) in combination with 5-fluorocytosine (5FC) mediated a long-term tumor-free survival in the 83.3% of tumor-bearing animals. CD-MSC/5FC treatment induced cytotoxicity against model human melanoma cells EGFP-A375. Only 4% of the therapeutic CD-MSC cells eliminated >98.5% of the tumor cells in vitro. Long-term tumor-free survival was confirmed in 15 out of the 18 animals. However, repeatedly used CD-MSC/5FC therapeutic regimen generated more aggressive and metastatic variant of the melanoma cells EGFP-A375/Rel3. These cells derived from the refractory xenotransplants exhibited increased resistance to the CD-MSC/5FC treatment, altered cell adhesion, migration, tumorigenic and metastatic properties. However, long-term curative effect was achieved by the augmentation of the CD-MSC/5FC regimen along with the inhibition of c-Met/hepatocyte growth factor signaling axis in this aggressive melanoma derivative. In summary, the CD-MSC/5FC regimen can be regarded as a very effective antitumor approach to achieve long-term tumor-free survival as demonstrated on a mouse model of aggressive human melanoma xenografts.

HLBT-100: a highly potent anti-cancer flavanone from Tillandsia recurvata (L.) L.

PubMed

Lowe, Henry I C; Toyang, Ngeh J; Watson, Charah T; Ayeah, Kenneth N; Bryant, Joseph

2017-01-01

The incidence and mortalities from cancers remain on the rise worldwide. Despite significant efforts to discover and develop novel anticancer agents, many cancers remain in the unmet need category. As such, efforts to discover and develop new and more effective and less toxic agents against cancer remain a top global priority. Our drug discovery approach is natural products based with a focus on plants. Tillandsia recurvata (L.) L. is one of the plants selected by our research team for further studies based on previous bioactivity findings on the anticancer activity of this plant. The plant biomass was extracted using supercritical fluid extraction technology with CO 2 as the mobile phase. Bioactivity guided isolation was achieved by use of chromatographic technics combined with anti-proliferative assays to determine the active fraction and subsequently the pure compound. Following in house screening, the identified molecule was submitted to the US National Cancer Institute for screening on the NCI60 cell line panel using standard protocols. Effect of HLBT-100 on apoptosis, caspase 3/7, cell cycle and DNA fragmentation were assessed using standard protocols. Antiangiogenic activity was carried out using the ex vivo rat aortic ring assay. A flavonoid of the flavanone class was isolated from T. recurvata (L.) L. with potent anticancer activity. The molecule was code named as HLBT-100 (also referred to as HLBT-001). The compound inhibited brain cancer (U87 MG), breast cancer (MDA-MB231), leukemia (MV4-11), melanoma (A375), and neuroblastoma (IMR-32) with IC 50 concentrations of 0.054, 0.030, 0.024, 0.003 and 0.05 µM, respectively. The molecule also exhibited broad anticancer activity in the NCI60 panel inhibiting especially hematological, colon, CNS, melanoma, ovarian, breast and prostate cancers. Twenty-three of the NCI60 cell lines were inhibited with GI 50 values <0.100 µM. In terms of potential mechanisms of action, the molecule demonstrated effect on the cell cycle as evidenced by the accumulation of cells with 

Uptake and Function Studies of Maternal Milk-derived MicroRNAs*

PubMed Central

Title, Alexandra C.; Denzler, Rémy; Stoffel, Markus

2015-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of cell-autonomous gene expression that influence many biological processes. They are also released from cells and are present in virtually all body fluids, including blood, urine, saliva, sweat, and milk. The functional role of nutritionally obtained extracellular miRNAs is controversial, and irrefutable demonstration of exogenous miRNA uptake by cells and canonical miRNA function is still lacking. Here we show that miRNAs are present at high levels in the milk of lactating mice. To investigate intestinal uptake of miRNAs in newborn mice, we employed genetic models in which newborn miR-375 and miR-200c/141 knockout mice received milk from wild-type foster mothers. Analysis of the intestinal epithelium, blood, liver, and spleen revealed no evidence for miRNA uptake. miR-375 levels in hepatocytes were at the limit of detection and remained orders of magnitude below the threshold for target gene regulation (between 1000 and 10,000 copies/cell). Furthermore, our study revealed rapid degradation of milk miRNAs in intestinal fluid. Together, our results indicate a nutritional rather than gene-regulatory role of miRNAs in the milk of newborn mice. PMID:26240150

Dosimetry Prediction for Clinical Translation of 64Cu-Pembrolizumab ImmunoPET Targeting Human PD-1 Expression.

PubMed

Natarajan, Arutselvan; Patel, Chirag B; Habte, Frezghi; Gambhir, Sanjiv S

2018-01-12

The immune checkpoint programmed death 1 receptor (PD-1) expressed on some tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes, and its ligand (PD-L1) expressed on tumor cells, enable cancers to evade the immune system. Blocking PD-1 with the monoclonal antibody pembrolizumab is a promising immunotherapy strategy. Thus, noninvasively quantifying the presence of PD-1 expression in the tumor microenvironment prior to initiation of immune checkpoint blockade may identify the patients likely to respond to therapy. We have developed a 64 Cu-pembrolizumab radiotracer and evaluated human dosimetry. The tracer was utilized to image hPD-1 levels in two subcutaneous mouse models: (a) 293 T/hPD-1 cells xenografted into NOD-scid IL-2Rγnull mice (NSG/293 T/hPD-1) and (b) human peripheral blood mononuclear cells engrafted into NSG bearing A375 human melanoma tumors (hNSG/A375). In each mouse model two cohorts were evaluated (hPD-1 blockade with pembrolizumab [blk] and non-blocked [nblk]), for a total of four groups (n = 3-5/group). The xenograft-to-muscle ratio in the NSG/293 T/hPD-1 model at 24 h was significantly increased in the nblk group (7.0 ± 0.5) compared to the blk group (3.4 ± 0.9), p = 0.01. The radiotracer dosimetry evaluation (PET/CT ROI-based and ex vivo) in the hNSG/A375 model revealed the highest radiation burden to the liver. In summary, we validated the 64 Cu-pembrolizumab tracer's specific hPD-1 receptor targeting and predicted human dosimetry.

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Ganoderma lucidum total triterpenes induce apoptosis in MCF-7 cells and attenuate DMBA induced mammary and skin carcinomas in experimental animals.

PubMed

Smina, T P; Nitha, B; Devasagayam, T P A; Janardhanan, K K

2017-01-01

Ganoderma lucidum total triterpenes were evaluated for its apoptosis-inducing and anti-cancer activities. Cytotoxicity and pro-apoptotic effect of total triterpenes were evaluated in human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF-7) cell line using MTT assay and DNA fragmentation analysis. Total triterpenes induced apoptosis in MCF-7 cells by down-regulating the levels of cyclin D1, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and also by up-regulating the levels of Bax and caspase-9. Anti-carcinogenicity of total triterpenes was analysed using dimethyl benz [a] anthracene (DMBA) induced skin papilloma and mammary adenocarcinoma in Swiss albino mice and Wistar rats respectively. Topical application of 5mg, 10mg and 20mg total triterpenes reduced the incidence of skin papilloma by 62.5, 37.5 and 12.5% respectively. Incidence of the mammary tumour was also reduced significantly by 33.33, 66.67 and 16.67% in 10, 50 and 100mg/kg b.wt. total triterpenes treated animals respectively. Total triterpenes were also found to reduce the average number of tumours per animal and extended the tumour latency period in both the models. The results indicate the potential cytotoxicity and anti-cancerous activity of total triterpenes, there by opens up a path to the development of a safe and successive chemo preventive agent of natural origin. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Targeting Alpha5 Beta1 Integrin to Prevent Metastatic Breast Cancer Cell Invasion: PhScN Target Site Definition and Plasma Stability

DTIC Science & Technology

2014-09-01

dendrimer as a more potent inhibitor of human breast cancer cell invasion, extravasation, and lung colony formation. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment...2011. 125: p. 363-375. PMID: 20300829 13. Yao, H., D.M. Veine, Z.Z. Zeng, K.S. Fay, et al., Increased potency of the PHSCN dendrimer as an inhibitor of

LncRNA MEG3 repressed malignant melanoma progression via inactivating Wnt signaling pathway.

PubMed

Li, Peng; Gao, Ying; Li, Jun; Zhou, Yu; Yuan, Jing; Guan, Huiwen; Yao, Peng

2018-05-21

Accumulating evidence has indicated that MEG3 can serve as a tumor suppressive lncRNA in various tumors. It is aberrantly expressed in multiple cancers. However, the biological roles of MEG3 in melanoma are poorly understood. Therefore, in our study, we concentrated on the biological mechanism of MEG3 in melanoma progression. First, we observed that MEG3 was obviously decreased in melanoma cells including A375, SK-MEL-1, B16, and A2058 cells compared to human epidermal melanocytes HEMa-LP. MEG3 was restored by transfecting LV-MEG3 in to A375 and A2058 cells. Subsequently, we found that overexpression of MEG3 was able to inhibit cell proliferation and colony formation capacity. Meanwhile, melanoma cell apoptosis was induced by up-regulation of MEG3. Overexpression of MEG3 greatly repressed melanoma cell migration and invasion ability. In addition, Wnt signaling pathway has been identified in the progression of various cancers. Here, in our study, it was indicated that Wnt signaling was highly activated in melanoma cells with β-catenin expression significantly increased and GSK-3β decreased. Interestingly, MEG restoration strongly inactivated Wnt signaling pathway by reducing β-catenin and CyclinD1, elevating GSK-3β levels in vitro. Finally, in vivo experiments were carried out to confirm the inhibitory roles of MEG3 in vivo. Taken these together, we suggested that MEG3 can inhibit melanoma development through blocking Wnt signaling pathway. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Evaluation of Fluorine-18-Labeled α1(I)-N-Telopeptide Analogs as Substrate-Based Radiotracers for PET Imaging of Melanoma-Associated Lysyl Oxidase.

PubMed

Kuchar, Manuela; Neuber, Christin; Belter, Birgit; Bergmann, Ralf; Lenk, Jens; Wodtke, Robert; Kniess, Torsten; Steinbach, Jörg; Pietzsch, Jens; Löser, Reik

2018-01-01

Accumulating evidence suggests an unequivocal role of lysyl oxidases as key players of tumor progression and metastasis, which renders this enzyme family highly attractive for targeted non-invasive functional imaging of tumors. Considering their function in matrix remodeling, malignant melanoma appears as particularly interesting neoplasia in this respect. For the development of radiotracers that enable PET imaging of the melanoma-associated lysyl oxidase activity, substrates derived from the type I collagen α1 N-telopeptide were labeled with fluorine-18 using N -succinimidyl 4-[ 18 F]fluorobenzoate ([ 18 F]SFB) as prosthetic reagent. With regards to potential crosslinking to tumor-associated collagen in vivo , their interaction with triple-helical type I collagen was studied by SPR. A mouse model of human melanoma was established on the basis of the A375 cell line, for which the expression of the oncologically relevant lysyl oxidase isoforms LOX and LOXL2 was demonstrated in Western blot and immunohistochemical experiments. The radiopharmacological profiles of the peptidic radiotracers were evaluated in normal rats and A375 melanoma-bearing mice by ex vivo metabolite analysis, whole-body biodistribution studies and dynamic PET imaging. Out of three 18 F-labeled telopeptide analogs, the one with the most favorable substrate properties has shown favorable tumor uptake and tumor-to-muscle ratio. Lysyl oxidase-mediated tumor uptake was proven by pharmacological inhibition using β-aminopropionitrile and by employing negative-control analogs of impeded or abolished targeting capability. The latter were obtained by substituting the lysine residue by ornithine and norleucine, respectively. Comparing the tumor uptake of the lysine-containing peptide with that of the non-functional analogs indicate the feasibility of lysyl oxidase imaging in melanoma using substrate-based radiotracers.

Evaluation of Fluorine-18-Labeled α1(I)-N-Telopeptide Analogs as Substrate-Based Radiotracers for PET Imaging of Melanoma-Associated Lysyl Oxidase

PubMed Central

Kuchar, Manuela; Neuber, Christin; Belter, Birgit; Bergmann, Ralf; Lenk, Jens; Wodtke, Robert; Kniess, Torsten; Steinbach, Jörg; Pietzsch, Jens; Löser, Reik

2018-01-01

Accumulating evidence suggests an unequivocal role of lysyl oxidases as key players of tumor progression and metastasis, which renders this enzyme family highly attractive for targeted non-invasive functional imaging of tumors. Considering their function in matrix remodeling, malignant melanoma appears as particularly interesting neoplasia in this respect. For the development of radiotracers that enable PET imaging of the melanoma-associated lysyl oxidase activity, substrates derived from the type I collagen α1 N-telopeptide were labeled with fluorine-18 using N-succinimidyl 4-[18F]fluorobenzoate ([18F]SFB) as prosthetic reagent. With regards to potential crosslinking to tumor-associated collagen in vivo, their interaction with triple-helical type I collagen was studied by SPR. A mouse model of human melanoma was established on the basis of the A375 cell line, for which the expression of the oncologically relevant lysyl oxidase isoforms LOX and LOXL2 was demonstrated in Western blot and immunohistochemical experiments. The radiopharmacological profiles of the peptidic radiotracers were evaluated in normal rats and A375 melanoma-bearing mice by ex vivo metabolite analysis, whole-body biodistribution studies and dynamic PET imaging. Out of three 18F-labeled telopeptide analogs, the one with the most favorable substrate properties has shown favorable tumor uptake and tumor-to-muscle ratio. Lysyl oxidase-mediated tumor uptake was proven by pharmacological inhibition using β-aminopropionitrile and by employing negative-control analogs of impeded or abolished targeting capability. The latter were obtained by substituting the lysine residue by ornithine and norleucine, respectively. Comparing the tumor uptake of the lysine-containing peptide with that of the non-functional analogs indicate the feasibility of lysyl oxidase imaging in melanoma using substrate-based radiotracers.

Relative Contribution of P5 and Hap Surface Proteins to Nontypable Haemophilus influenzae Interplay with the Host Upper and Lower Airways

PubMed Central

Viadas, Cristina; Ruiz de los Mozos, Igor; Valle, Jaione; Bengoechea, José Antonio; Garmendia, Junkal

2015-01-01

Nontypable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) is a major cause of opportunistic respiratory tract disease, and initiates infection by colonizing the nasopharynx. Bacterial surface proteins play determining roles in the NTHi-airways interplay, but their specific and relative contribution to colonization and infection of the respiratory tract has not been addressed comprehensively. In this study, we focused on the ompP5 and hap genes, present in all H. influenzae genome sequenced isolates, and encoding the P5 and Hap surface proteins, respectively. We employed isogenic single and double mutants of the ompP5 and hap genes generated in the pathogenic strain NTHi375 to evaluate P5 and Hap contribution to biofilm growth under continuous flow, to NTHi adhesion, and invasion/phagocytosis on nasal, pharyngeal, bronchial, alveolar cultured epithelial cells and alveolar macrophages, and to NTHi murine pulmonary infection. We show that P5 is not required for bacterial biofilm growth, but it is involved in NTHi interplay with respiratory cells and in mouse lung infection. Mechanistically, P5NTHi375 is not a ligand for CEACAM1 or α5 integrin receptors. Hap involvement in NTHi375-host interaction was shown to be limited, despite promoting bacterial cell adhesion when expressed in H. influenzae RdKW20. We also show that Hap does not contribute to bacterial biofilm growth, and that its absence partially restores the deficiency in lung infection observed for the ΔompP5 mutant. Altogether, this work frames the relative importance of the P5 and Hap surface proteins in NTHi virulence. PMID:25894755

Reprogramming human A375 amelanotic melanoma cells by catalase overexpression: Reversion or promotion of malignancy by inducing melanogenesis or metastasis

PubMed Central

Bracalente, Candelaria; Salguero, Noelia; Notcovich, Cintia; Müller, Carolina B.; da Motta, Leonardo L.; Klamt, Fabio; Ibañez, Irene L.; Durán, Hebe

2016-01-01

Advanced melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. It is highly metastatic and dysfunctional in melanogenesis; two processes that are induced by H2O2. This work presents a melanoma cell model with low levels of H2O2 induced by catalase overexpression to study differentiation/dedifferentiation processes. Three clones (A7, C10 and G10) of human A375 amelanotic melanoma cells with quite distinct phenotypes were obtained. These clones faced H2O2 scavenging by two main strategies. One developed by clone G10 where ROS increased. This resulted in G10 migration and metastasis associated with the increased of cofilin-1 and CAP1. The other strategy was observed in clone A7 and C10, where ROS levels were maintained reversing malignant features. Particularly, C10 was not tumorigenic, while A7 reversed the amelanotic phenotype by increasing melanin content and melanocytic differentiation markers. These clones allowed the study of potential differentiation and migration markers and its association with ROS levels in vitro and in vivo, providing a new melanoma model with different degree of malignancy. PMID:27206672

Reprogramming human A375 amelanotic melanoma cells by catalase overexpression: Reversion or promotion of malignancy by inducing melanogenesis or metastasis.

PubMed

Bracalente, Candelaria; Salguero, Noelia; Notcovich, Cintia; Müller, Carolina B; da Motta, Leonardo L; Klamt, Fabio; Ibañez, Irene L; Durán, Hebe

2016-07-05

Advanced melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer. It is highly metastatic and dysfunctional in melanogenesis; two processes that are induced by H2O2. This work presents a melanoma cell model with low levels of H2O2 induced by catalase overexpression to study differentiation/dedifferentiation processes. Three clones (A7, C10 and G10) of human A375 amelanotic melanoma cells with quite distinct phenotypes were obtained. These clones faced H2O2 scavenging by two main strategies. One developed by clone G10 where ROS increased. This resulted in G10 migration and metastasis associated with the increased of cofilin-1 and CAP1. The other strategy was observed in clone A7 and C10, where ROS levels were maintained reversing malignant features. Particularly, C10 was not tumorigenic, while A7 reversed the amelanotic phenotype by increasing melanin content and melanocytic differentiation markers. These clones allowed the study of potential differentiation and migration markers and its association with ROS levels in vitro and in vivo, providing a new melanoma model with different degree of malignancy.

Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from Schizogyne sericea (Asteraceae) Endemic to Canary Islands.

PubMed

Venditti, Alessandro; Bianco, Armandodoriano; Muscolo, Camilla; Zorzetto, Christian; Sánchez-Mateo, Candelaria C; Rabanal, Rosa M; Quassinti, Luana; Bramucci, Massimo; Damiano, Silvia; Iannarelli, Romilde; Lupidi, Giulio; Papa, Fabrizio; Petrelli, Dezemona; Vitali, Luca A; Vittori, Sauro; Maggi, Filippo

2016-07-01

Schizogyne sericea (Asteraceae) is a halophytic shrub endemic to the Canary Islands and traditionally employed as analgesic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, and vulnerary. A comprehensive phytochemical investigation was conducted on the flowering aerial parts by analyzing both essential oil constituents and polar compounds. The essential oil was dominated by p-cymene, with the noteworthy occurrence of β-pinene and thymol esters. From the EtOH extract, eight compounds were isolated and structurally elucidated. Essential oil, polar fractions, and isolates (2), (4), and (5) were separately in vitro assayed for antiproliferative activity on human tumor cell lines (A375, MDA-MB 231, and HCT116) by MTT assay, for antioxidant potential by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays, and for antimicrobial activity by the agar disk diffusion method. Results revealed that essential oil and compounds 1 and 2 exert a strong inhibition on tumor cells, and in some cases, higher than that of cisplatin. Fractions containing thymol derivatives (1 and 2) and caffeoylquinic acid derivatives 4 and 5 displayed antioxidant activity comparable to that of Trolox, making S. sericea extract an interesting natural product with potential applications as preservative or in the treatment of diseases in which oxidative stress plays an important role. © 2016 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zürich.

In vitro antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of selenium-containing phycocyanin from selenium-enriched Spirulina platensis.

PubMed

Chen, Tianfeng; Wong, Yum-Shing

2008-06-25

Both selenium and phycocyanin have been reported to show potent cancer chemopreventive activities. In this study, we investigated the in vitro antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of selenium-containing phycocyanin (Se-PC) purified from selenium-enriched Spirulina platensis. The antioxidant activity of Se-PC was evaluated by using four different free radical scavenging assays, namely, the 2,2'-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazolin-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay, 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, superoxide anion scavenging assay, and erythrocyte hemolysis assay. The results indicated that Se-PC exhibited stronger antioxidant activity than phycocyanin by scavenging ABTS, DPPH, superoxide anion, and 2,2'-azobis-(2-amidinopropane)dihydrochloride free radicals. Se-PC also showed dose-dependent protective effects on erythrocytes against H 2O 2-induced oxidative DNA damage as evaluated by the Comet assay. Moreover, Se-PC was identified as a potent antiproliferative agent against human melanoma A375 cells and human breast adenocarcinoma MCF-7 cells. Induction of apoptosis in both A375 and MCF-7 cells by Se-PC was evidenced by accumulation of sub-G1 cell populations, DNA fragmentation, and nuclear condensation. Further investigation on intracellular mechanisms indicated that depletion of mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsi m) was involved in Se-PC-induced cell apoptosis. Our findings suggest that Se-PC is a promising organic Se species with potential applications in cancer chemoprevention.

Suppression of antigen-specific antibody responses in mice exposed to perfluorooctanoic acid: Role of PPARalpha and T- and B-cell targeting

EPA Science Inventory

T-cell-dependent antibody responses (TDAR) are suppressed in female C57BL/6N mice exposed to ≥3.75 mg/kg of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) for 15 days. To determine if suppression of humoral immunity by PFOA is peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARa)-dependent and...

Spectrum of dermoscopic patterns in lichen planus: a case series from China.

PubMed

Tan, Cheng; Min, Zhong-Sheng; Xue, Yanning; Zhu, Wen-Yuan

2014-01-01

Dermoscopy has been shown to be a promising method to facilitate the diagnosis of lichen planus (LP) outside of China. To investigate the spectrum of dermoscopic patterns in Chinese LP patients. The clinical data and dermoscopic patterns of nine LP cases with a total of 43 lesions were evaluated. To the naked eye, 20.97% of the lesions exhibited graying Wickham striae (WS); however, 37.5% presented with white streaks of annular, reticular, or leaf venation patterns under dermoscopy. Blue-white veils were occasionally observed in the center. Pigment patterns varied from dots, globules, and peppered pigment to pigmented lines, which were unrelated to the pigment network of the skin. At the periphery of the WS, red fine lines ran parallel to the delicate white streaming lines. WS exhibits five morphological patterns (leaf venation, reticular, white dots, circular and radial streaming) and three color patterns (homogeneous crystalline white, blue-white veil and yellowish-white). The pigment patterns consisted of dots/globules, peppered pigments and pigment. streaming lines.

Efficacy of the saponin component of Impatiens capensis Meerb.in preventing urushiol-induced contact dermatitis.

PubMed

Motz, Vicki A; Bowers, Christopher P; Kneubehl, Alexander R; Lendrum, Elizabeth C; Young, Linda M; Kinder, David H

2015-03-13

Many different tribes of American Indians used jewelweed, Impatiens capensis Meerb, as a plant mash to reduce development of poison ivy dermatitis. Saponins are a natural soapy constituent found within plants. A 2012 study suggested that saponins may be present in jewelweed which could be responsible for its efficacy in preventing rash development following contact with Toxicodendron radicans (L.) Kuntze (poison ivy). This study validated this hypothesis and demonstrated additional biological activity of the jewelweed saponin containing extract. Fresh I. capensis leaves were extracted with methanol and further partitioned between ethyl acetate and water, with a final separation between water and n-butanol, to obtain a saponin containing extract. The presence of saponins in the extract was demonstrated by the observation of foaming and using a vanillin colorimetric assay for total saponins. Efficacy of the saponin containing extracts in rash reduction was tested by brushing poison ivy (PI) onto the forearms of volunteers (N=23) in six locations and treating these PI exposed areas with distilled water (control), saponin containing extracts, fresh plant mashes, and soaps made with and without plant extracts. Saponin containing extracts were further tested for biological activity against both gram negative and gram positive bacteria and against cancer cell lines A-375, HT-29, and MCF-7. Additionally, because saponins have been shown to have a stimulatory effect in cardiac muscle 2 µl saponin extract was applied superficially to black worms, Lumbriculus variegatus (N=5). Both saponin containing extracts and all soaps tested were effective in reducing poison ivy dermatitis; thus, saponin content correlates with PI rash prevention. No apparent antibiosis was observed against any bacteria tested; however, dose response cytotoxicity was documented against MCF-7 breast cancer cells and cytostatic activity was seen against the HT-29 colon cancer cell lines. Lumbriculus variegatus exhibited a 138% increase in heart rate over baseline rate five minutes post treatment implying a possible positive chronotropic effect. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Fluorescently labeled therapeutic antibodies for detection of microscopic melanoma

PubMed Central

Day, Kristine E.; Beck, Lauren N.; Deep, Nicholas L.; Kovar, Joy; Zinn, Kurt R; Rosenthal, Eben L.

2013-01-01

Objective Detection of microscopic disease during surgical resection of melanoma remains a significant challenge. To assess real-time optical imaging for visualization of microscopic cancer, we evaluated three FDA-approved therapeutic monoclonal antibodies. Study Design Prospective, basic science Methods Melanoma cell lines (A375 and SKMEL5) were xenografted into the ears of immunodeficient mice. Bevacizumab, panitumumab, tocilizumab, or a non-specific IgG were covalently linked to a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent probe (IRDye800CW) and systemically injected. Primary tumors were imaged and then resected under fluorescent guidance using the SPY, an NIR imaging system used in plastic and reconstructive surgeries to evaluate perfusion. Mice were also imaged with the Pearl Impulse small animal imager, an NIR imaging system designed for use with IRDye800CW. Post-resection, small tissue fragments were fluorescently imaged and presence of tumor subsequently confirmed by correlation with histology. Results All fluorescently-labeled therapeutic monoclonal antibodies could adequately delineate tumor from normal tissue based on tumor-to-background ratios (TBR) compared to IgG-IRDye800CW. On serial imaging, panitumumab achieved the highest TBRs with both SPY and Pearl (3.8 and 6.6). When used to guide resections, the antibody-dye conjugates generated TBRs in the range of 1.3-2.2 (average=1.6) using the SPY and 1.9-6.3 (average=2.7) using the Pearl. There was no significant difference amongst the antibodies with either imaging modality or cell line (one-way ANOVA). Conclusion Our data suggests that FDA approved antibodies may be suitable targeting agents for the intraoperative fluorescent detection of melanoma. Level of Evidence N/A PMID:23616260

Randomized study of minocycline and edetic acid as a locking solution for central line (port-a-cath) in children with cancer.

PubMed

Ferreira Chacon, Julieta Maria; Hato de Almeida, Emília; de Lourdes Simões, Regina; Lazzarin C Ozório, Viviane; Alves, Benaia Cândida; Mello de Andréa, Maria Lydia; Santiago Biernat, Marcela; Biernat, João Carlos

2011-01-01

Contamination of central catheters is frequent, and biofilm perpetuates infections. Heparin does not protect against infections because it has no antibiotic action. Minocycline and edetic acid (M-EDTA), a potent calcium chelating agent that destroys bacterial and fungal cell membrane and disrupts biofilm, may be an alternative to allow the associated antibiotic to act locally at a high and safe concentration. Fifty children with cancer and a port-a-cath were followed up: 26 received heparin (group 1) and 24 M-EDTA (group 2). A total of 762 serial prospective blood cultures were obtained, 387 from group 1 and 375 from group 2. In group 1 (heparin), 19 blood cultures were positive, and infection incidence was 73.1% (19/26 ports). In group 2 (M-EDTA), 5 blood cultures were positive, and the incidence rate was 20.8% (5/24 ports). M-EDTA, compared with heparin, prevents and treats catheter infections, and is a promising alternative to decrease sepsis during chemotherapy. Copyright © 2011 S. Karger AG, Basel.

Preclinical Study of AUY922, a Novel Hsp90 Inhibitor, in the Treatment of Esophageal Adenocarcinoma.

PubMed

Kosovec, Juliann E; Zaidi, Ali H; Kelly, Lori A; Rotoloni, Christina L; Vytlacil, Christopher; DiCarlo, Christina; Matsui, Daisuke; Komatsu, Yoshihiro; Boyd, Natalie H; Omstead, Ashten; Kolano, Elena L; Biederman, Robert W W; Finley, Gene; Silverman, Jan F; Landreneau, Rodney J; Jobe, Blair A

2016-08-01

To assess the efficacy of heat-shock protein 90 (Hsp90) inhibitor, NVP-AUY922-AG (AUY922), in the treatment of esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) in vitro and in vivo. EAC is a leading cause of cancer death, and current treatment options are limited. Hsp90, a chaperone protein that regulates several oncoproteins, is upregulated in EAC, and may be a novel target for therapy. In vitro, EAC cell lines were utilized to evaluate AUY922, alone and in combination with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and cisplatin. BrdU ELISA and flow cytometry were used to assess proliferation and measure apoptosis, respectively. Western blot and RT-PCR were performed to quantitate Hsp90 pathway expression. In vivo, esophagojejunostomy was performed on rats and treatment animals received AUY922 32 to 40 weeks postoperatively. Drug efficacy was evaluated with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), endoscopic biopsy, gross histological evaluation, and Hsp90 pathway expression. In vitro, AUY922 demonstrated antiproliferative activity in both cell lines and showed enhanced efficacy with cisplatin and 5-FU. Western Blot and RT-PCR demonstrated downregulation of CDK1 and CDK4 and upregulation of Hsp72. In vivo, AUY922 showed decrease in tumor volume in 36.4% of rats (control = 9.4%), increase in 9.1% (control = 37.5%), and stable disease in 54.5% (control = 43.7%). Necropsy confirmed the presence of EAC in 50% of treatment animals and 75% of control animals. mRNA expression, pre- and posttreatment, demonstrated significant downregulation of MIF, Hsp70, Hsp90β, and CDK4, and upregulation of Hsp72. AUY922 exhibits antitumor efficacy in vitro and in vivo for EAC, suggesting the need for human clinical trials.

20% Efficient Zn0.9Mg0.1O:Al/Zn0.8Mg0.2O/Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se)2 Solar Cell Prepared by All-Dry Process through a Combination of Heat-Light-Soaking and Light-Soaking Processes.

PubMed

Chantana, Jakapan; Kato, Takuya; Sugimoto, Hiroki; Minemoto, Takashi

2018-04-04

Development of Cd-free Cu(In,Ga)(S,Se) 2 (CIGSSe)-based thin-film solar cells fabricated by an all-dry process is intriguing to minimize optical loss at a wavelength shorter than 520 nm owing to absorption of the CdS buffer layer and to be easily integrated into an in-line process for cost reduction. Cd-free CIGSSe solar cells are therefore prepared by the all-dry process with a structure of Zn 0.9 Mg 0.1 O:Al/Zn 0.8 Mg 0.2 O/CIGSSe/Mo/glass. It is demonstrated that Zn 0.8 Mg 0.2 O and Zn 0.9 Mg 0.1 O:Al are appropriate as buffer and transparent conductive oxide layers with large optical band gap energy values of 3.75 and 3.80 eV, respectively. The conversion efficiency (η) of the Cd-free CIGSSe solar cell without K-treatment is consequently increased to 18.1%. To further increase the η, the Cd-free CIGSSe solar cell with K-treatment is next fabricated and followed by posttreatment called the heat-light-soaking (HLS) + light-soaking (LS) process, including HLS at 110 °C followed by LS under AM 1.5G illumination. It is disclosed that the HLS + LS process gives rise to not only the enhancement of carrier density but also the decrease in the carrier recombination rate at the buffer/absorber interface. Ultimately, the η of the Cd-free CIGSSe solar cell with K-treatment prepared by the all-dry process is enhanced to the level of 20.0%.

Compliance Testing of Phosphoric Acid Anodizing Line Wet Scrubber, Metal Bonding Facility, Building 375, Kelly AFB, Texas

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-06-01

boilers and incinerators). Generally the chromium emissions from the processes are particu- late in nature. The trivalent chromium is converted to...runs at five different boiler and incinerator sources, typically less than 3 percent of the trivalent chromium converts to hexavalent chromium ...Emissions from this process contain 20 to 100 times more trivalent chromium than hexavalent chromium in the sample. In separating the hexavalent chromium

A non-local thermodynamic equilibrium, line-blanketed synthetic spectrum of Iota Herculis - C, Al, and Si lines

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Grigsby, James A.

1991-01-01

A non-LTE line-blanketed model stellar atmosphere is used to compute a model of I Herculis (B3 IV) with a Teff of 17,500 K and a log g of 3.75, following the conclusions of Peters and Polidan (1985). Detailed profiles of a number of lines of C, Al, and Si in the 1200-2000-A region are computed, including the resonance lines of C II, Al II, and Al III. These profiles are compared to observations obtained from the coaddition of eight IUE SWP images, using a technique developed by Leckrone and Adelman (1989). Comparison of carbon lines with a model that is underabundant in carbon by a factor of 2 relative to the sun indicates that the C abundance of Iota Her is at most one-half solar. Non-LTE effects are examined by comparing an LTE model possessing identical atmospheric parameters with the non-LTE model. Substantial differences in the populations of the model atomic states are found, but differences in the temperature structure of the two models often mask the non-LTE effects in the synthetic spectra.

Rat Muc4 (sialomucin complex) reduces binding of anti-ErbB2 antibodies to tumor cell surfaces, a potential mechanism for herceptin resistance.

PubMed

Price-Schiavi, Shari A; Jepson, Scott; Li, Peter; Arango, Maria; Rudland, Philip S; Yee, Lisa; Carraway, Kermit L

2002-06-20

Muc4 (also called sialomucin complex), the rat homolog of human MUC4, is a heterodimeric glycoprotein complex that consists of a peripheral O-glycosylated mucin subunit, ASGP-1, tightly but noncovalently linked to a N-glycosylated transmembrane subunit, ASGP-2. The complex is expressed in a number of normal, vulnerable epithelial tissues, including mammary gland, uterus, colon, cornea and trachea. Muc4/SMC is also overexpressed or aberrantly expressed on a number of human tumors including breast tumors. Overexpression of Muc4/SMC has been shown to block cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, protect tumor cells from immune surveillance and promote metastasis. In addition, as a ligand for ErbB2, Muc4/SMC can potentiate phosphorylation of ErbB2 and potentially alter signals generated from this receptor. Using A375 human melanoma cells and MCF7 human breast adenocarcinoma cells stably transfected with tetracycline regulatable Muc4, we have investigated whether overexpression of Muc4/SMC can repress antibody binding to cell surface-expressed ErbB2. Overexpression of Muc4/SMC does not affect the level of ErbB2 expression in either cell line, but it does reduce binding of a number of anti-ErbB2 antibodies, including Herceptin. Interestingly, overexpression of ErbB2 does not block binding of other unrelated antibodies of the same isotype, suggesting that the reduction in ErbB2 antibody binding is due to complex formation of Muc4/SMC and ErbB2. Furthermore, capping of Muc4/SMC with anti-Muc4/SMC antibodies reduces antibody binding to ErbB2 instead of increasing binding, again suggesting that reduced antibody binding to ErbB2 is due to steric hindrance from complex formation of Muc4/SMC and ErbB2. Thus, overexpression of Muc4/SMC on tumor cells may have both prognostic and therapeutic relevance. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Chemical composition and anticancer activity of essential oils of Mediterranean sage (Salvia officinalis L.) grown in different environmental conditions.

PubMed

Russo, Alessandra; Formisano, Carmen; Rigano, Daniela; Senatore, Felice; Delfine, Sebastiano; Cardile, Venera; Rosselli, Sergio; Bruno, Maurizio

2013-05-01

Salvia officinalis L. can be found worldwide and its leaves are commonly used as ingredient in food industry. Sage essential oil is applied in the treatment of a range of diseases and has been shown to possess different biological activities. The objectives of our research were to study the effects of environment on crop, chemical composition and anticancer activity on S. officinalis essential oil. Sage was cultivated at eighteen experimental sites in south-central Italy (Molise) in different growing environments. The essential oils (S1-S18), extracted by hydrodistillation, were analyzed by GC and CG/MS. Results show that the main components were α-thujone, camphor, borneol, γ-muurolene and sclareol for all the samples, but the percentages of these compounds varied depending on environmental factors such as altitude, water availability and pedo-climatic conditions. The growth-inhibitory and proapoptotic effects of the eighteen sage essential oils were evaluated in three human melanoma cell lines, A375, M14, and A2058. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Thymoquinone suppresses metastasis of melanoma cells by inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ahmad, Israr; Muneer, Kashiff M.; Tamimi, Iman A.

2013-07-01

The inflammasome is a multi-protein complex which when activated regulates caspase-1 activation and IL-1β and IL-18 secretion. The NLRP3 (NACHT, LRR, and pyrin domain-containing protein 3) inflammasome is constitutively assembled and activated in human melanoma cells. We have examined the inhibitory effect of thymoquinone (2-isopropyl-5-methylbenzo-1,4-quinone), a major ingredient of black seed obtained from the plant Nigella sativa on metastatic human (A375) and mouse (B16F10) melanoma cell lines. We have assessed whether thymoquinone inhibits metastasis of melanoma cells by targeting NLRP3 subunit of inflammasomes. Using an in vitro cell migration assay, we found that thymoquinone inhibited the migration of both humanmore » and mouse melanoma cells. The inhibitory effect of thymoquinone on metastasis was also observed in vivo in B16F10 mouse melanoma model. The inhibition of migration of melanoma cells by thymoquinone was accompanied by a decrease in expression of NLRP3 inflammasome resulting in decrease in proteolytic cleavage of caspase-1. Inactivation of caspase-1 by thymoquinone resulted in inhibition of IL-1β and IL-18. Treatment of mouse melanoma cells with thymoquinone also inhibited NF-κB activity. Furthermore, inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by thymoquinone resulted in partial inactivation of NLRP3 inflammasome. Thus, thymoquinone exerts its inhibitory effect on migration of human and mouse melanoma cells by inhibition of NLRP3 inflammasome. Thus, our results indicate that thymoquinone can be a potential immunotherapeutic agent not only as an adjuvant therapy for melanoma, but also, in the control and prevention of metastatic melanoma. - Highlights: • Thymoquinone causes inhibition of migration of melanoma cells. • Thymoquinone causes inhibition of metastasis in vivo. • Thymoquinone causes inhibition of migration by activation of NLRP3 inflammasome.« less

Transcriptome association analysis identifies miR-375 as a major determinant of variable acetaminophen glucuronidation by human liver.

PubMed

Papageorgiou, Ioannis; Freytsis, Marina; Court, Michael H

2016-10-01

Acetaminophen is the leading cause of acute liver failure (ALF) in many countries including the United States. Hepatic glucuronidation by UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) 1A subfamily enzymes is the major route of acetaminophen elimination. Reduced glucuronidation may predispose some individuals to acetaminophen-induced ALF, but mechanisms underlying reduced glucuronidation are poorly understood. We hypothesized that specific microRNAs (miRNAs) may reduce UGT1A activity by direct effects on the UGT1A 3'-UTR shared by all UGT1A enzyme transcripts, or by indirect effects on transcription factors regulating UGT1A expression. We performed an unbiased miRNA whole transcriptome association analysis using a bank of human livers with known acetaminophen glucuronidation activities. Of 754 miRNAs evaluated, 9 miRNAs were identified that were significantly overexpressed (p<0.05; >2-fold) in livers with low acetaminophen glucuronidation activities compared with those with high activities. miR-375 showed the highest difference (>10-fold), and was chosen for further mechanistic validation. We demonstrated using in silico analysis and luciferase reporter assays that miR-375 has a unique functional binding site in the 3'-UTR of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) gene. Furthermore overexpression of miR-375 in LS180 cells demonstrated significant repression of endogenous AhR protein (by 40%) and mRNA (by 10%), as well as enzyme activity and/or mRNA of AhR regulated enzymes including UGT1A1, UGT1A6, and CYP1A2, without affecting UGT2B7, which is not regulated by AhR. Thus miR-375 is identified as a novel repressor of UGT1A-mediated hepatic acetaminophen glucuronidation through reduced AhR expression, which could predispose some individuals to increased risk for acetaminophen-induced ALF. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Corrective Action Decision Document/Closure Report for Corrective Action Unit 375: Area 30 Buggy Unit Craters, Nevada National Security Site, Nevada, Revision 0

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Patrick Matthews

2011-08-01

Corrective Action Unit 375 comprises three corrective action sites (CASs): (1) 25-23-22, Contaminated Soils Site; (2) 25-34-06, Test Cell A Bunker; and (3) 30-45-01, U-30a, b, c, d, e Craters. The purpose of this CADD/CR is to provide justification and documentation supporting the recommendation that no further corrective action is needed for CAU 375 based on the implementation of corrective action of closure in place with administrative controls at CAS 25-23-22, no further action at CAS 25-34-06, and closure in place with administrative controls and removal of potential source material (PSM) at CAS 30-45-01. Corrective action investigation (CAI) activities weremore » performed from July 28, 2010, through April 4, 2011, as set forth in the Corrective Action Investigation Plan for Corrective Action Unit 375: Area 30 Buggy Unit Craters. The approach for the CAI was divided into two facets: investigation of the primary release of radionuclides, and investigation of other releases (migration in washes and chemical releases). The purpose of the CAI was to fulfill data needs as defined during the data quality objective (DQO) process. The CAU 375 dataset of investigation results was evaluated based on the data quality assessment. This assessment demonstrated the dataset is acceptable for use in fulfilling the DQO data needs. Investigation results were evaluated against final action levels (FALs) established in this document. A radiological dose FAL of 25 millirem per year was established based on the Remote Work Area exposure scenario (336 hours of annual exposure). Radiological doses exceeding the FAL were assumed to be present within the default contamination boundaries at CASs 25-23-22 and 30-45-01. No contaminants were identified at CAS 25-34-06, and no corrective action is necessary. Potential source material in the form of lead plate, lead-acid batteries, and oil within an abandoned transformer were identified at CAS 30-45-01, and corrective actions were undertaken that consisted of removing the PSM. Use restrictions and warning signs were implemented for the remaining radiological contamination at CASs 25-23-22 and 30-45-01. These use restrictions were recorded in the FFACO database; the U.S. Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office (NNSA/NSO) Facility Information Management System; and the NNSA/NSO CAU/CAS files. Therefore, NNSA/NSO provides the following recommendations: (1) No further corrective actions are necessary for CAU 375; (2) A Notice of Completion to NNSA/NSO is requested from the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection for closure of CAU 375; and (3) Move CAU 375 from Appendix III to Appendix IV of the FFACO.« less

Chlorambucil plus Rituximab as Front-Line Therapy in Elderly/Unfit Patients Affected by B-Cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Results of a Single-Centre Experience

PubMed Central

Laurenti, Luca; Vannata, Barbara; Innocenti, Idanna; Autore, Francesco; Santini, Francesco; Piccirillo, Nicola; Za, Tommaso; Bellesi, Silvia; Marietti, Sara; Sica, Simona; Efremov, Dimitar G.; Leone, Giuseppe

2013-01-01

The current standard first line therapy for fit patients with B-CLL/SLL is based on combination of fludarabine-cyclophosphamide and rituximab. However, elderly patients or patients with comorbidities poorly tolerate purine analogue-based chemotherapy and they are often treated with Chlorambucil (Chl) only. However, complete response (CR) and overall response (OR) rates with Chl are relatively low. We now investigated whether the addition of Rituximab to Chl will improve the efficacy without impairing the tolerability in elderly and unfit patients. We included in our study 27 elderly or unfit patients that had not received prior therapy. All patients were treated with Chl (1mg/Kg per 28-day cycle for 8 cycles) plus Rituximab (375 mg/m2 for the first course and 500 mg/m2 for subsequent cycles until the 6th cycle). We obtained an OR rate of 74%. The most frequent adverse effect was grade 3–4 neutropenia, which occurred in 18.5% of the patients. Infections or grade 3–4 extra-hematological side effects were not recorded. None of the patients required reduction of dose, delay of therapy or hospitalization. Overall, these data suggest that Chl-R is an effective and well tolerated regimen in elderly/unfit patients with CLL. PMID:23667729

Eosinophilic, Solid, and Cystic Renal Cell Carcinoma: Clinicopathologic Study of 16 Unique, Sporadic Neoplasms Occurring in Women.

PubMed

Trpkov, Kiril; Hes, Ondrej; Bonert, Michael; Lopez, Jose I; Bonsib, Stephen M; Nesi, Gabriella; Comperat, Eva; Sibony, Mathilde; Berney, Daniel M; Martinek, Petr; Bulimbasic, Stela; Suster, Saul; Sangoi, Ankur; Yilmaz, Asli; Higgins, John P; Zhou, Ming; Gill, Anthony J; Przybycin, Christopher G; Magi-Galluzzi, Cristina; McKenney, Jesse K

2016-01-01

A unique renal neoplasm characterized by eosinophilic cytoplasm and solid and cystic growth was recently reported in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). We searched multiple institutional archives and consult files in an attempt to identify a sporadic counterpart. We identified 16 morphologically identical cases, all in women, without clinical features of TSC. The median age was 57 years (range, 31 to 75 y). Macroscopically, tumors were tan and had a solid and macrocystic (12) or only solid appearance (4). Average tumor size was 50 mm (median, 38.5 mm; range, 15 to 135 mm). Microscopically, the tumors showed solid areas admixed with variably sized macrocysts and microcysts that were lined by cells with a pronounced hobnail arrangement. The cells had voluminous eosinophilic cytoplasm with prominent granular cytoplasmic stippling and round to oval nuclei with prominent nucleoli. Scattered histiocytes and lymphocytes were invariably present. Thirteen of 16 patients were stage pT1; 2 were pT2, and 1 was pT3a. The cells demonstrated a distinct immunoprofile: nuclear PAX8 expression, predominant CK20-positive/CK7-negative phenotype, patchy AMACR staining, but no CD117 reactivity. Thirteen of 14 patients with follow-up were alive and without disease progression after 2 to 138 months (mean: 53 mo; median: 37.5 mo); 1 patient died of other causes. Although similar to a subset of renal cell carcinomas (RCCs) seen in TSC, we propose that sporadic "eosinophilic, solid, and cystic RCC," which occurs predominantly in female individuals and is characterized by distinct morphologic features, predominant CK20-positive/CK7-negative immunophenotype, and indolent behavior, represents a novel subtype of RCC.

Measurement of Eu and Yb in aqueous solutions by underwater laser induced breakdown spectroscopy

DOE PAGES

Bhatt, Chet R.; Jain, Jinesh C.; Goueguel, Christian L.; ...

2017-09-13

In this paper, we report the use of laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to detect dissolved Eu and Yb in bulk aqueous solutions. Ten strong emission lines of Eu and one strong emission line of Yb were identified in the underwater LIBS spectra obtained by using Czerny–Turner spectrometer within the wavelength range of 375–515 nm. Temporal evolution of plasma and the effect of laser pulse energy on the spectral emission were studied. Finally, calibration curves using the concentration range from 500 to 10,000 ppm were developed and limits of detection for Eu and Yb were estimated to be 209 andmore » 156 ppm, respectively.« less

Measurement of Eu and Yb in aqueous solutions by underwater laser induced breakdown spectroscopy

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bhatt, Chet R.; Jain, Jinesh C.; Goueguel, Christian L.

In this paper, we report the use of laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) to detect dissolved Eu and Yb in bulk aqueous solutions. Ten strong emission lines of Eu and one strong emission line of Yb were identified in the underwater LIBS spectra obtained by using Czerny–Turner spectrometer within the wavelength range of 375–515 nm. Temporal evolution of plasma and the effect of laser pulse energy on the spectral emission were studied. Finally, calibration curves using the concentration range from 500 to 10,000 ppm were developed and limits of detection for Eu and Yb were estimated to be 209 andmore » 156 ppm, respectively.« less

Vorinostat Combined with High-Dose Gemcitabine, Busulfan, and Melphalan with Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in Patients with Refractory Lymphomas.

PubMed

Nieto, Yago; Valdez, Benigno C; Thall, Peter F; Ahmed, Sairah; Jones, Roy B; Hosing, Chitra; Popat, Uday; Shpall, Elizabeth J; Qazilbash, Muzaffar; Gulbis, Alison; Anderlini, Paolo; Alousi, Amin; Shah, Nina; Bashir, Qaiser; Liu, Yan; Oki, Yasuhiro; Hagemeister, Frederick; Fanale, Michelle; Dabaja, Bouthaina; Pinnix, Chelsea; Champlin, Richard; Andersson, Borje S

2015-11-01

More active high-dose regimens are needed for refractory/poor-risk relapsed lymphomas. We previously developed a regimen of infusional gemcitabine/busulfan/melphalan, exploiting the synergistic interaction. Its encouraging activity in refractory lymphomas led us to further enhance its use as a platform for epigenetic modulation. We previously observed increased cytotoxicity in refractory lymphoma cell lines when the histone deacetylase inhibitor vorinostat was added to gemcitabine/busulfan/melphalan, which prompted us to clinically study this four-drug combination. Patients ages 12 to 65 with refractory diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLCL), Hodgkin (HL), or T lymphoma were eligible. Vorinostat was given at 200 mg/day to 1000 mg/day (days -8 to -3). Gemcitabine was infused continuously at 10 mg/m(2)/minute over 4.5 hours (days -8 and -3). Busulfan dosing targeted 4000 μM-minute/day (days -8 to -5). Melphalan was infused at 60 mg/m(2)/day (days -3 and -2). Patients with CD20(+) tumors received rituximab (375 mg/m(2), days +1 and +8). We enrolled 78 patients: 52 DLCL, 20 HL, and 6 T lymphoma; median age 44 years (range, 15 to 65); median 3 prior chemotherapy lines (range, 2 to 7); and 48% of patients had positron emission tomography-positive tumors at high-dose chemotherapy (29% unresponsive). The vorinostat dose was safely escalated up to 1000 mg/day, with no treatment-related deaths. Toxicities included mucositis and dermatitis. Neutrophils and platelets engrafted promptly. At median follow-up of 25 (range, 16 to 41) months, event-free and overall survival were 61.5% and 73%, respectively (DLCL) and 45% and 80%, respectively (HL). In conclusion, vorinostat/gemcitabine/busulfan/melphalan is safe and highly active in refractory/poor-risk relapsed lymphomas, warranting further evaluation. This trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCI-2011-02891). Copyright © 2015 American Society for Blood and Marrow Transplantation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

CD147 silencing inhibits tumor growth by suppressing glucose transport in melanoma.

PubMed

Su, Juan; Gao, Tianyuan; Jiang, Minghao; Wu, Lisha; Zeng, Weiqi; Zhao, Shuang; Peng, Cong; Chen, Xiang

2016-10-04

Melanoma is a very malignant disease and there are still no effective treatments. CD147 participates in the carcinogenesis of multiple human cancers and GLUT-1, as a glucose transporter, is associated with tumor growth. However, the function of CD147 and GLUT-1 in melanoma have not been completely understood. Thus, in this study we investigated the expression of CD147 and GLUT-1 in melanoma tissue, which were overexpressed compared with that in nevus tissue. In addition, CD147 and GLUT-1 were co-localized in the cytoplasm of human melanoma A375 cells. Immunoprecipitation proved that CD147 interacted with GLUT-1 at D105-199. Silencing CD147 by specific siRNA could downregulate GLUT-1 level via inhibiting PI3K/Akt signaling and decrease glucose uptake in A375 cells. In vivo experiments also supported that CD147 knockdown suppressed the tumor growth in melanoma subcutaneous mice model, observed by micro PET/CT. Our results could help validate CD147 as a new therapeutic target for treating melanoma.

CD147 silencing inhibits tumor growth by suppressing glucose transport in melanoma

PubMed Central

Su, Juan; Gao, Tianyuan; Jiang, Minghao; Wu, Lisha; Zeng, Weiqi; Zhao, Shuang; Peng, Cong; Chen, Xiang

2016-01-01

Melanoma is a very malignant disease and there are still no effective treatments. CD147 participates in the carcinogenesis of multiple human cancers and GLUT-1, as a glucose transporter, is associated with tumor growth. However, the function of CD147 and GLUT-1 in melanoma have not been completely understood. Thus, in this study we investigated the expression of CD147 and GLUT-1 in melanoma tissue, which were overexpressed compared with that in nevus tissue. In addition, CD147 and GLUT-1 were co-localized in the cytoplasm of human melanoma A375 cells. Immunoprecipitation proved that CD147 interacted with GLUT-1 at D105-199. Silencing CD147 by specific siRNA could downregulate GLUT-1 level via inhibiting PI3K/Akt signaling and decrease glucose uptake in A375 cells. In vivo experiments also supported that CD147 knockdown suppressed the tumor growth in melanoma subcutaneous mice model, observed by micro PET/CT. Our results could help validate CD147 as a new therapeutic target for treating melanoma. PMID:27556188

14 CFR 125.375 - Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

...-powered airplanes. 125.375 Section 125.375 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION... AND OPERATIONS CERTIFICATION AND OPERATIONS: AIRPLANES HAVING A SEATING CAPACITY OF 20 OR MORE... AIRCRAFT Flight Release Rules § 125.375 Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes. (a...

14 CFR 125.375 - Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

...-powered airplanes. 125.375 Section 125.375 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION... AND OPERATIONS CERTIFICATION AND OPERATIONS: AIRPLANES HAVING A SEATING CAPACITY OF 20 OR MORE... AIRCRAFT Flight Release Rules § 125.375 Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes. (a...

14 CFR 125.375 - Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

...-powered airplanes. 125.375 Section 125.375 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION... AND OPERATIONS CERTIFICATION AND OPERATIONS: AIRPLANES HAVING A SEATING CAPACITY OF 20 OR MORE... AIRCRAFT Flight Release Rules § 125.375 Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes. (a...

14 CFR 125.375 - Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

...-powered airplanes. 125.375 Section 125.375 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION... AND OPERATIONS CERTIFICATION AND OPERATIONS: AIRPLANES HAVING A SEATING CAPACITY OF 20 OR MORE... AIRCRAFT Flight Release Rules § 125.375 Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes. (a...

14 CFR 125.375 - Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

...-powered airplanes. 125.375 Section 125.375 Aeronautics and Space FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION... AND OPERATIONS CERTIFICATION AND OPERATIONS: AIRPLANES HAVING A SEATING CAPACITY OF 20 OR MORE... AIRCRAFT Flight Release Rules § 125.375 Fuel supply: Nonturbine and turbopropeller-powered airplanes. (a...

20 CFR 375.7 - Operating regulations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Operating regulations. 375.7 Section 375.7 Employees' Benefits RAILROAD RETIREMENT BOARD EMERGENCY REGULATIONS PLAN OF OPERATION DURING A NATIONAL EMERGENCY § 375.7 Operating regulations. (a) Retirement claims. (1) In a national emergency as defined in...

20 CFR 375.7 - Operating regulations.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 20 Employees' Benefits 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Operating regulations. 375.7 Section 375.7 Employees' Benefits RAILROAD RETIREMENT BOARD EMERGENCY REGULATIONS PLAN OF OPERATION DURING A NATIONAL EMERGENCY § 375.7 Operating regulations. (a) Retirement claims. (1) In a national emergency as defined in...

MUC4 Regulates Cellular Senescence in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) through p16/Rb Pathway

PubMed Central

Macha, Muzafar A.; Rachagani, Satyanarayana; Pai, Priya; Gupta, Suprit; Lydiatt, Williams M.; Smith, Russell B.; Johansson, Sonny L.; Lele, Subodh M.; Kakar, Sham S.; Lee, John H.; Meza, Jane; Ganti, Apar K.; Jain, Maneesh; Batra, Surinder K.

2014-01-01

The limited effectiveness of therapy for patients with advanced stage Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) or recurrent disease is a reflection of an incomplete understanding of the molecular basis of HNSCC pathogenesis. MUC4, a high molecular weight glycoprotein, is differentially overexpressed in many human cancers and implicated in cancer progression and resistance to several chemotherapies. However its clinical relevance and the molecular mechanisms through which it mediates HNSCC progression are not well understood. The present study revealed a significant up-regulation of MUC4 in 78% (68/87) of HNSCC tissues compared to 10% (1/10) in benign samples [p= 0.006, OR (95% C.I) = 10.74 (2.0 - 57.56)]. MUC4 knockdown (KD) in SCC1 and SCC10B HNSCC cell lines resulted in significant inhibition of growth in vitro and in vivo, increased senescence as indicated by an increase in the number of flat, enlarged and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal) positive cells. Decreased cellular proliferation was associated with G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and decrease expression of cell cycle regulatory proteins like cyclin E, cyclin D1 and decrease in BrdU incorporation. Mechanistic studies revealed upregulation of p16, pRb dephosphorylation and its interaction with HDAC1/2. This resulted in decreased histone acetylation (H3K9) at Cyclin E promoter leading to its downregulation. Orthotropic implantation of MUC4 KD SCC1 cells into the floor of the mouth of nude mice resulted in the formation of significantly small tumors (170±18.30 mg) compared to bigger tumors (375 ±17.29 mg) formed by control cells (p= 0.00007). In conclusion, our findings showed that MUC4 overexpression plays a critical role by regulating proliferation and cellular senescence of HNSCC cells. Downregulation of MUC4 may be a promising therapeutic approach for treating HNSCC patients. PMID:24747969

MUC4 regulates cellular senescence in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma through p16/Rb pathway.

PubMed

Macha, M A; Rachagani, S; Pai, P; Gupta, S; Lydiatt, W M; Smith, R B; Johansson, S L; Lele, S M; Kakar, S S; Farghaly, H; Lee, J H; Meza, J; Ganti, A K; Jain, M; Batra, S K

2015-03-26

The limited effectiveness of therapy for patients with advanced stage head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) or recurrent disease is a reflection of an incomplete understanding of the molecular basis of HNSCC pathogenesis. MUC4, a high molecular weight glycoprotein, is differentially overexpressed in many human cancers and implicated in cancer progression and resistance to several chemotherapies. However, its clinical relevance and the molecular mechanisms through which it mediates HNSCC progression are not well understood. This study revealed a significant upregulation of MUC4 in 78% (68/87) of HNSCC tissues compared with 10% positivity (1/10) in benign samples (P=0.006, odds ratio (95% confidence interval)=10.74 (2.0-57.56). MUC4 knockdown (KD) in SCC1 and SCC10B HNSCC cell lines resulted in significant inhibition of growth in vitro and in vivo, increased senescence as indicated by an increase in the number of flat, enlarged and senescence-associated β-galactosidase (SA-β-Gal)-positive cells. Decreased cellular proliferation was associated with G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and decrease expression of cell cycle regulatory proteins like cyclin E, cyclin D1 and decrease in BrdU incorporation. Mechanistic studies revealed upregulation of p16, pRb dephosphorylation and its interaction with histone deacetylase 1/2. This resulted in decreased histone acetylation (H3K9) at cyclin E promoter leading to its downregulation. Orthotopic implantation of MUC4 KD SCC1 cells into the floor of the mouth in nude mice resulted in the formation of significantly smaller tumors (170±18.30 mg) compared to those (375±17.29 mg) formed by control cells (P=0.00007). In conclusion, our findings showed that MUC4 overexpression has a critical role by regulating proliferation and cellular senescence of HNSCC cells. Downregulation of MUC4 may be a promising therapeutic approach for treating HNSCC patients.

76 FR 41272 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-07-13

....375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives, National...

18 CFR 375.206 - Procedures to close meetings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... meetings. 375.206 Section 375.206 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY... Sunshine Act § 375.206 Procedures to close meetings. (a) General rule. A meeting or a portion of a meeting may be closed only when the Commission votes by a majority of the membership to close the meeting. A...

14 CFR 375.34 - Indoctrination training.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Indoctrination training. 375.34 Section 375... § 375.34 Indoctrination training. Foreign civil aircraft may be operated in the United States for the purpose of giving indoctrination training in the operation of the aircraft concerned to a buyer or a buyer...

20 CFR 375.6 - Personnel, fiscal, and service functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... her respective geographic area. (b) Fiscal. (1) In a national emergency, as defined in § 375.2, the... OPERATION DURING A NATIONAL EMERGENCY § 375.6 Personnel, fiscal, and service functions. (a) Personnel. In a national emergency as defined in § 375.2, when it is no longer possible for a regional director to...

20 CFR 375.6 - Personnel, fiscal, and service functions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... her respective geographic area. (b) Fiscal. (1) In a national emergency, as defined in § 375.2, the... OPERATION DURING A NATIONAL EMERGENCY § 375.6 Personnel, fiscal, and service functions. (a) Personnel. In a national emergency as defined in § 375.2, when it is no longer possible for a regional director to...

High-sweeping-speed optically synchronized dual-channel terahertz-signal generator for driving a superconducting tunneling mixer and its application to active gas sensing.

PubMed

Oh, Kyoung-Hwan; Shimizu, Naofumi; Kohjiro, Satoshi; Kikuchi, Ken'ichi; Wakatsuki, Atsushi; Kukutsu, Naoya; Kado, Yuichi

2009-10-12

We propose a high-sweeping-speed optically synchronized dual-channel terahertz (THz) signal generator for an active gas-sensing system with a superconductor-insulator-superconductor (SIS) mixer. The generator can sweep a frequency range from 200 to 500 GHz at a speed of 375 GHz/s and a frequency resolution of 500 MHz. With the developed gas-sensing system, a gas-absorption-line measurement was successfully carried out with N(2)O gas in that frequency range.

40 CFR 80.375 - What requirements apply to California gasoline?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... gasoline? 80.375 Section 80.375 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Gasoline Sulfur Exemptions § 80.375 What requirements apply to California gasoline? (a) Definition. For purposes of this subpart California gasoline...

40 CFR 80.375 - What requirements apply to California gasoline?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... gasoline? 80.375 Section 80.375 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Gasoline Sulfur Exemptions § 80.375 What requirements apply to California gasoline? (a) Definition. For purposes of this subpart California gasoline...

40 CFR 80.375 - What requirements apply to California gasoline?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... gasoline? 80.375 Section 80.375 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Gasoline Sulfur Exemptions § 80.375 What requirements apply to California gasoline? (a) Definition. For purposes of this subpart California gasoline...

40 CFR 80.375 - What requirements apply to California gasoline?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... gasoline? 80.375 Section 80.375 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Gasoline Sulfur Exemptions § 80.375 What requirements apply to California gasoline? (a) Definition. For purposes of this subpart California gasoline...

40 CFR 80.375 - What requirements apply to California gasoline?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... gasoline? 80.375 Section 80.375 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED) AIR PROGRAMS (CONTINUED) REGULATION OF FUELS AND FUEL ADDITIVES Gasoline Sulfur Exemptions § 80.375 What requirements apply to California gasoline? (a) Definition. For purposes of this subpart California gasoline...

49 CFR 375.601 - Must I transport the shipment in a timely manner?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Must I transport the shipment in a timely manner? 375.601 Section 375.601 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued... Transportation of Shipments § 375.601 Must I transport the shipment in a timely manner? Yes. Transportation in a...

49 CFR 375.601 - Must I transport the shipment in a timely manner?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Must I transport the shipment in a timely manner? 375.601 Section 375.601 Transportation Other Regulations Relating to Transportation (Continued... Transportation of Shipments § 375.601 Must I transport the shipment in a timely manner? Yes. Transportation in a...

Airborne spectrophotometry of Eta Carinae from 4.5 to 7.5 microns and a model for source morphology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russell, Ray W.; Lynch, David K.; Hackwell, John A.; Rudy, Richard J.; Rossano, George S.; Castelaz, M. W.

1987-01-01

Spectrophotometric observations of Eta Car between 4.5 and 7.5 microns show a featureless thermal-like spectrum with no fine-structure lines or broad emission or absorption features. The color temperature of the spectrum is approximately 375 K. High spatial resolution maps at 3.5, 4.8, and 10 microns obtained from the ground are used to discuss the dust distribution and temperature structure, and to present a model for general source morphology. The upper limit to the brightness of the forbidden Ar II fine-structure emission line at 6.98 microns is less than 7 x 10 to the -16th W/sq cm, which still allows for a significant overabundance of argon and is consistent with the evolved nature of the source.

64Cu-labeled alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone analog for microPET imaging of melanocortin 1 receptor expression.

PubMed

Cheng, Zhen; Xiong, Zhengming; Subbarayan, Murugesan; Chen, Xiaoyuan; Gambhir, Sanjiv Sam

2007-01-01

The alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (alpha-MSH) receptor (melanocortin type 1 receptor, or MC1R) plays an important role in the development and growth of melanoma cells. It was found that MC1R was overexpressed on most murine and human melanoma, making it a promising molecular target for melanoma imaging and therapy. Radiolabeled alpha-MSH peptide and its analogs that can specifically bind with MC1R have been extensively explored for developing novel agents for melanoma detection and radionuclide therapy. The goal of this study was to evaluate a 64Cu-labeled alpha-MSH analog, Ac-Nle-Asp-His-D-Phe-Arg-Trp-Gly-Lys(DOTA)-NH2 (DOTA-NAPamide), as a potential molecular probe for microPET imaging of melanoma and MC1R expression in melanoma xenografted mouse models. 1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetraacetic acid (DOTA) conjugated NAPamide was synthesized and radiolabeled with 64Cu (t1/2=12 h) in NH4OAc (0.1 M; pH 5.5) buffered solution for 60 min at 50 degrees C. Cell culture studies reveal rapid and high uptake and internalization of 64Cu-DOTA-NAPamide in B16F10 cells. Over 90% of receptor-bound tracer is internalized at 3 h incubation. A cellular retention study demonstrates that the receptor-bound 64Cu-DOTA-NAPamide is slowly released from the B16F10 cells into the medium; 66% of the radioactivity is still associated with the cells even after 3 h incubation. The biodistribution of 64Cu-DOTA-NAPamide was then investigated in C57BL/6 mice bearing subcutaneous murine B16F10 melanoma tumors with high capacity of MC1R and Fox Chase Scid mice bearing human A375M melanoma with a relatively low number of MC1R receptors. Tumor uptake values of 64Cu-DOTA-NAPamide are found to be 4.63 +/- 0.45% and 2.49 +/- 0.31% ID/g in B16F10 and A375M xenografted melanoma at 2 h postinjection (pi), respectively. The B16F10 tumor uptake at 2 h pi is further inhibited to 2.29 +/- 0.24% ID/g, while A375M tumor uptake at 2 h pi remains 2.20 +/- 0.41% ID/g with a coinjection of excess alpha-MSH peptide. MicroPET imaging of 64Cu-DOTA-NAPamide in B16F10 tumor mice clearly shows good tumor localization. However, low A375M tumor uptake and poor tumor to normal tissue contrast were observed. This study demonstrates that 64Cu-DOTA-NAPamide is a promising molecular probe for alpha-MSH receptor positive melanoma PET imaging as well as MC1R expression imaging in living mice.

IL4R alpha mutations are associated with asthma exacerbations and mast cell/IgE expression.

PubMed

Wenzel, Sally E; Balzar, Silvana; Ampleford, Elizabeth; Hawkins, Gregory A; Busse, William W; Calhoun, William J; Castro, Mario; Chung, K Fan; Erzurum, Serpil; Gaston, Benjamin; Israel, Elliot; Teague, W Gerald; Curran-Everett, Douglas; Meyers, Deborah A; Bleecker, Eugene R

2007-03-15

Severe asthma has been associated with severe exacerbations, lower lung function and greater tissue inflammation. Previous studies have suggested that mutations in interleukin-4 receptor alpha (IL4Ralpha) are associated with lower lung function, higher IgE, and a gain in receptor function. However, an effect on exacerbations and tissue inflammation has not been shown. Allelic substitutions in IL4Ralpha are associated with asthma exacerbations, lower lung function, and tissue inflammation, in particular to mast cells and IgE. Two well-characterized cohorts of subjects with severe asthma were analyzed for five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL4Ralpha. These polymorphisms were compared with the history of severe asthma exacerbations and lung function. In the primary (National Jewish) cohort, these polymorphisms were also compared with endobronchial tissue inflammatory cells and local IgE. In both cohorts, the presence of the minor alleles at E375A and Q551R, which were more common in African Americans, was associated with a history of severe exacerbations and lower lung function. In the National Jewish cohort, the C allele at E375A was associated with higher tissue mast cells and higher levels of IgE bound to mast cells. The significance for most of these associations remained when whites (the larger racial subgroup) were analyzed separately. SNPs in IL4Ralpha, which are more common in African Americans, are associated with severe asthma exacerbations, lower lung function, and increased mast cell-related tissue inflammation. Further studies of the impact of these mutations in African Americans and on receptor function are indicated.

31 CFR 375.11 - Who may participate in a redemption operation?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Bank of New York has approved to conduct open market transactions with the Bank. (b) Others. A person... operation? 375.11 Section 375.11 Money and Finance: Treasury Regulations Relating to Money and Finance... SECURITIES REDEMPTION OPERATIONS Offering, Certifications, and Delivery § 375.11 Who may participate in a...

Living near overhead high voltage transmission power lines as a risk factor for childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a case-control study.

PubMed

Sohrabi, Mohammad-Reza; Tarjoman, Termeh; Abadi, Alireza; Yavari, Parvin

2010-01-01

This study aimed to investigate association of living near high voltage power lines with occurrence of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Through a case-control study 300 children aged 1-18 years with confirmed ALL were selected from all referral teaching centers for cancer. They interviewed for history of living near overhead high voltage power lines during at least past two years and compared with 300 controls which were individually matched for sex and approximate age. Logistic regression, chi square and paired t-tests were used for analysis when appropriate. The case group were living significantly closer to power lines (P<0.001). More than half of the cases were exposed to two or three types of power lines (P<0.02). Using logistic regression, odds ratio of 2.61 (95%CI: 1.73 to 3.94) calculated for less than 600 meters far from the nearest lines against more than 600 meters. This ratio estimated as 9.93 (95%CI: 3.47 to 28.5) for 123 KV, 10.78 (95%CI: 3.75 to 31) for 230 KV and 2.98 (95%CI: 0.93 to 9.54) for 400 KV lines. Odds of ALL decreased 0.61 for every 600 meters from the nearest power line. This study emphasizes that living close to high voltage power lines is a risk for ALL.

40 CFR 97.375 - Petitions.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 20 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Petitions. 97.375 Section 97.375... BUDGET TRADING PROGRAM AND CAIR NOX AND SO2 TRADING PROGRAMS Monitoring and Reporting § 97.375 Petitions. The CAIR designated representative of a CAIR NOX Ozone Season unit may submit a petition under § 75.66...

18 CFR 375.204 - Notice of meetings.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2010-04-01 2010-04-01 false Notice of meetings. 375... § 375.204 Notice of meetings. (a) Public announcements of meetings—1) General rule. Except to the extent that information described in § 375.205(a) (involving closed meetings) is exempt from disclosure, the...

18 CFR 375.102 - Custody and authentication of Commission records.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... authentication of Commission records. 375.102 Section 375.102 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL... Provisions § 375.102 Custody and authentication of Commission records. (a) Custody of official records. (1...) Authentication of Commission action. All orders and other actions of the Commission shall be authenticated or...

21 CFR 172.375 - Potassium iodide.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Potassium iodide. 172.375 Section 172.375 Food and... Dietary and Nutritional Additives § 172.375 Potassium iodide. The food additive potassium iodide may be safely used in accordance with the following prescribed conditions: (a) Potassium iodide may be safely...

21 CFR 173.375 - Cetylpyridinium chloride.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... 21 Food and Drugs 3 2010-04-01 2009-04-01 true Cetylpyridinium chloride. 173.375 Section 173.375... CONSUMPTION Specific Usage Additives § 173.375 Cetylpyridinium chloride. Cetylpyridinium chloride (CAS Reg. No....1666 of this chapter, at a concentration of 1.5 times that of cetylpyridinium chloride. (c) The...

14 CFR 375.11 - Other foreign civil aircraft.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Other foreign civil aircraft. 375.11... PROCEEDINGS) SPECIAL REGULATIONS NAVIGATION OF FOREIGN CIVIL AIRCRAFT WITHIN THE UNITED STATES Authorization § 375.11 Other foreign civil aircraft. A foreign civil aircraft other than those referred to in § 375.10...

Analysis of the biomechanical behavior of short implants: The photo-elasticity method.

PubMed

Pellizzer, Eduardo Piza; de Mello, Caroline Cantieri; Santiago Junior, Joel Ferreira; de Souza Batista, Victor Eduardo; de Faria Almeida, Daniel Augusto; Verri, Fellippo Ramos

2015-10-01

The aim of this study was to analyze the stress distribution of short implants supporting single unit or splinted crowns by the photo-elasticity method. Four photo-elastic models were produced: A (3.75×7 mm); B (3.75×7 mm, 3.75×7 mm and 3.75×7 mm); C (3.75×10 mm, 3.75×7 mm and 3.75×7 mm); D (3.75×13 mm, 3.75×7 mm and 3.75×7 mm). The prostheses were made with Ni-Cr alloy. A load of 100 N in the axial and oblique directions was applied, totaling 380 applications, individually capturing their images in each model. The data were randomized and analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by 2 examiners. The oblique loading was significantly more damaging. The increase in length was favorable for stress distribution (p<0.05). The splinting was beneficial for the transmission of stresses mainly (p<0.05). The splinting of the crowns, as well as increasing the length of the first implant and axial loading was most beneficial in the stress distribution. Short splinted implants behaved better than single unit implants. Increasing of the length of the first implant significantly improved the stress distribution in all analyzed situations. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

77 FR 11562 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-27

... Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special...

77 FR 33478 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-06

... Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

76 FR 71351 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-17

... Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

77 FR 33471 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-06

... Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

77 FR 10541 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-22

....gov . Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistanve Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research...

75 FR 70014 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-16

... Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

75 FR 30410 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-06-01

... Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special...

77 FR 10541 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-02-22

.... 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives, National...

77 FR 31862 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-05-30

... Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

75 FR 65363 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-10-22

... Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

77 FR 61612 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-10-10

... Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

Synthesis, biological evaluation and molecular docking of novel 5-phenyl-1H-pyrazol derivatives as potential BRAF(V600E) inhibitors.

PubMed

Dong, Jing-Jun; Li, Qing-Shan; Wang, Shu-Fu; Li, Cui-Yun; Zhao, Xin; Qiu, Han-Yue; Zhao, Meng-Yue; Zhu, Hai-Liang

2013-10-07

The RAF-MEK-ERK cascade appears to be intimately involved in the regulation of cell cycle progression and apoptosis. The BRAF(V600E) mutant results in constitutive activation of the ERK pathway, which can lead to cellular growth dysregulation. A series of 5-phenyl-1H-pyrazol derivatives (3a-5e) have been designed and synthesized, and their biological activities were evaluated as potential BRAF(V600E) inhibitors. All the compounds were reported for the first time except 3e, and compound 1-(4-bromo-2-hydroxybenzyl)-3-phenyl-1-(5-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-3-yl)urea (5c) displayed the most potent inhibitory activity (BRAF(V600E) IC50 = 0.19 μM). Antiproliferative assay results indicated that compound 5c possessed high antiproliferative activity against cell lines WM266.4 and A375 in vitro, with IC50 values of 1.50 and 1.32 μM, respectively, which were comparable with the positive control vemurafenib. Docking simulations showed that compound 5c binds tightly to the BRAF(V600E) active site and acts as BRAF(V600E) inhibitor. A 3D-QSAR model was also built to provide more pharmacophore understanding towards designing new agents with more potent BRAF(V600E) inhibitory activity.

Evidence of significant down-conversion in a Si-based solar cell using CuInS2/ZnS core shell quantum dots

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gardelis, Spiros; Nassiopoulou, Androula G.

2014-05-01

We report on the increase of up to 37.5% in conversion efficiency of a Si-based solar cell after deposition of light-emitting Cd-free, CuInS2/ZnS core shell quantum dots on the active area of the cell due to the combined effect of down-conversion and the anti- reflecting property of the dots. We clearly distinguished the effect of down-conversion from anti-reflection and estimated an enhancement of up to 10.5% in the conversion efficiency due to down-conversion.

77 FR 33477 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-06-06

... Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

76 FR 71350 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-11-17

... Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

75 FR 71712 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-11-24

... Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

77 FR 15783 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2012-03-16

... Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

78 FR 13364 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2013-02-27

... Committee: National Institute of General Medical Sciences Special Emphasis Panel; Systems Biology Grant... Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research... Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

75 FR 28810 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-05-24

... funding cycle. (Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93.859, Pharmacology, Physiology, and Biological Chemistry Research; 93.862, Genetics and Developmental Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research...

76 FR 13196 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-03-10

... Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93... Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives... Sciences Special Emphasis Panel, Research Centers in Trauma, Burn and Perioperative Injury. Date: April 8...

49 CFR 375.503 - Must I write up an inventory?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... article that is included in the shipment. (b) You must prepare the inventory before or at the time of... 49 Transportation 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Must I write up an inventory? 375.503 Section 375... Household Goods Before Loading § 375.503 Must I write up an inventory? (a) You must prepare a written...

Factors affecting inactivation of Moraxell-Acinetobacter cells in an irradiation process. [/sup 137/Cs

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Firstenberg-Eden, R.; Rowley, D.B.; Shattuck, G.E.

1980-09-01

The effect of various stages of the irradiation processing of beef on the injury and inactivation of radiation-resistant Moraxella-Acinetobactor cells was studied. Moraxella-Acinetobacter cells were more resistant to heat inactivation and injury when heated in meat with salts (0.75% NaCl and 0.375% sodium tripolyphosphate) than in meat without salts. These salts had no effect on radiation resistance. Heated cells were more sensitive to radiation inactivation and injury than unheated cells. After repair, the cells regained their resistance to both NaCl and irradiation. Freezing and storage at -40/sup 0/C for 14 days had only a slight effect on either unstressed ormore » heat-stressed cells.« less

75 FR 22606 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-04-29

... set forth in sections 552b(c)(4) and 552b(c)(6), Title 5 U.S.C., as amended. The grant applications... will be asked to show one form of identification (for example, a government-issued photo ID, driver's... Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and...

75 FR 79386 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-12-20

... set forth in sections 552b(c)(4) and 552b(c)(6), Title 5 U.S.C., as amended. The grant applications... be asked to show one form of identification (for example, a government-issued photo ID, driver's... Domestic Assistance Program Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and...

Dynamic morphological examination and evaluation of biological characteristics of a multinodular liver cancer model in mice.

PubMed

Li, Yan-Ru; Wang, Jin-Rui; Zhang, Hai-Ying; Wu, Xiao-Fei; Li, Sheng-Nan; Wang, Lin; Wang, Xue-Yao

2014-04-01

Compared with single nodular liver cancer, the prominent biological characteristics of multinodular liver cancer include rapid progression and short survival. Here, we developed a multinodular liver cancer model in mice and assessed the biological characteristics of the resulting neoplasms. H22 hepatoma cells at a dose of 2 × 10(5)/mouse, suspended in 1.6 mL, 0.8 mL, or 200 µL saline were injected via the tail vein of BALB/c mice at a velocity of 200 µL per second. The mice were sacrificed at different time points after injection. And at the time of death the liver, lungs, spleen, kidneys and heart were removed for morphological study. The biological characteristics of the tumor nodules were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. In the mice treated with a large volume injection of H22 cells, by day 7, there was a 100% occurrence of multinodular tumors in the livers, determined by histology. At the time of death, there were 100%, 100%, 37.5% and 37.5% occurrences of tumors in the lungs, kidneys, spleen and heart, respectively. The neoplastic cells in the liver nodules showed pleomorphism, and exhibited high expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), c-myc, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2). In mice treated with a small or medium volume injection, no tumor cells were identified in the livers, spleen, kidneys or heart at any of the examined time points. By day 7 and at the time of death, there was a 100% occurrence of tumor in the lungs. A multinodular liver cancer model in mice was achieved using a large volume injection of H22 cells.

Electrochemical As(III) whole-cell based biochip sensor.

PubMed

Cortés-Salazar, Fernando; Beggah, Siham; van der Meer, Jan Roelof; Girault, Hubert H

2013-09-15

The development of a whole-cell based sensor for arsenite detection coupling biological engineering and electrochemical techniques is presented. This strategy takes advantage of the natural Escherichia coli resistance mechanism against toxic arsenic species, such as arsenite, which consists of the selective intracellular recognition of arsenite and its pumping out from the cell. A whole-cell based biosensor can be produced by coupling the intracellular recognition of arsenite to the generation of an electrochemical signal. Hereto, E. coli was equipped with a genetic circuit in which synthesis of beta-galactosidase is under control of the arsenite-derepressable arsR-promoter. The E. coli reporter strain was filled in a microchip containing 16 independent electrochemical cells (i.e. two-electrode cell), which was then employed for analysis of tap and groundwater samples. The developed arsenic-sensitive electrochemical biochip is easy to use and outperforms state-of-the-art bacterial bioreporters assays specifically in its simplicity and response time, while keeping a very good limit of detection in tap water, i.e. 0.8ppb. Additionally, a very good linear response in the ranges of concentration tested (0.94ppb to 3.75ppb, R(2)=0.9975 and 3.75 ppb to 30ppb, R(2)=0.9991) was obtained, complying perfectly with the acceptable arsenic concentration limits defined by the World Health Organization for drinking water samples (i.e. 10ppb). Therefore, the proposed assay provides a very good alternative for the portable quantification of As (III) in water as corroborated by the analysis of natural groundwater samples from Swiss mountains, which showed a very good agreement with the results obtained by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Causes of visual impairment in patients with ocular toxoplasmosis.

PubMed

Şahinoğlu Keşkek, Nedime; Ünal, Fikret; Cevher, Selim; Keşkek, Şakir Özgür

2017-02-28

The aim of this study was to report the causes of visual impairment in patients with the classic clinical presentation of ocular toxoplasmosis (OT). Eight patients with OT underwent standardized ophthalmologic examination and fundus imaging. Macula and the lesions that could be visualized were evaluated by spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SOCT) at presentation. The scan acquisition protocols for SOCT included a radial line scan through the retinochoroiditis lesion, radial line macular scan, and horizontal volume scans at the macula. The mean age of the five (62.5%) women and three (37.5%) men was 25.7±7.6 years. The mean logMAR ETDRS best-corrected visual acuity was 0.45 (Snellen equivalent, 20/50). SOCT findings of macula were normal in seven patients, and one patient had decreased retinal thickness from a healed chorioretinitis at the fovea. Of eight patients, two had 3+ vitreous haze, four had 2+ vitreous haze, and two had 1+ vitreous haze at presentation. OCT scans revealed vitreous hyperreflective dots in all patients with different densities in different radial scans. Hyperreflective dots were denser in macular scans of eyes in which the active lesion was closer to the fovea. In this study, visual impairment in majority of the patients was found to be related to vitreous cells and flare. Dense vitritis on macula scans and visual impairment were seen in the patients who had an active lesion closer to the fovea. SOCT may provide objective data of the cellular load of the eyes with posterior segment inflammation.

Fisetin Inhibits Human Melanoma Cell Invasion through Promotion of Mesenchymal to Epithelial Transition and by Targeting MAPK and NFκB Signaling Pathways

PubMed Central

Pal, Harish Chandra; Sharma, Samriti; Strickland, Leah Ray; Katiyar, Santosh K.; Ballestas, Mary E.; Athar, Mohammad; Elmets, Craig A.; Afaq, Farrukh

2014-01-01

Malignant melanoma is responsible for approximately 75% of skin cancer-related deaths. BRAF plays an important role in regulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling cascade in melanoma with activating mutations in the serine/threonine kinase BRAF occurring in 60–70% of malignant melanomas. The BRAF-MEK-ERK (MAPK) pathway is a key regulator of melanoma cell invasion. In addition, activation of NFκB via the MAPK pathway is regulated through MEK-induced activation of IKK. These pathways are potential targets for prevention and treatment of melanoma. In this study, we investigated the effect of fisetin, a phytochemical present in fruits and vegetables, on melanoma cell invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and delineated the underlying molecular mechanism. Treatment of multiple human malignant melanoma cell lines with fisetin (5–20 µM) resulted in inhibition of cell invasion. BRAF mutated melanoma cells were more sensitive to fisetin treatment, and this was associated with a decrease in the phosphorylation of MEK1/2 and ERK1/2. In addition, fisetin inhibited the activation of IKK leading to a reduction in the activation of the NFκB signaling pathway. Treatment of cells with an inhibitor of MEK1/2 (PD98059) or of NFκB (caffeic acid phenethyl ester) also reduced melanoma cell invasion. Furthermore, treatment of fisetin promoted mesenchymal to epithelial transition in melanoma cells, which was associated with a decrease in mesenchymal markers (N-cadherin, vimentin, snail and fibronectin) and an increase in epithelial markers (E-cadherin and desmoglein). Employing three dimensional skin equivalents consisting of A375 cells admixed with normal human keratinocytes embedded onto a collagen-constricted fibroblast matrix, we found that treatment of fisetin reduced the invasive potential of melanoma cells into the dermis and increased the expression of E-cadherin with a concomitant decrease in vimentin. These results indicate that fisetin inhibits melanoma cell invasion through promotion of mesenchymal to epithelial transition and by targeting MAPK and NFκB signaling pathways. PMID:24466036

Prospective Epstein-Barr virus-related post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder prevention program in pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant: virological monitoring and first-line treatment.

PubMed

Chiereghin, A; Prete, A; Belotti, T; Gibertoni, D; Piccirilli, G; Gabrielli, L; Pession, A; Lazzarotto, T

2016-02-01

In 28 pediatric allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (allo-HSCT) recipients, we aimed to evaluate: (i) the impact of routine Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA monitoring on the development of EBV-related post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (EBV-PTLD); (ii) the incidence of EBV infection and the potential risk factors; and (iii) the suitability of whole blood (WB) as clinical specimen to monitor the risk of patients to develop EBV-PTLD. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay was performed on WB samples for all patients. EBV DNA quantification also in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) samples was adopted for the patients at higher risk of developing EBV-PTLD (≥ 10,000 copies/mL WB). High EBV DNAemia levels were observed in 37.5% of the actively infected recipients (57.1%). Severe aplastic anemia, matched-unrelated donor transplant, the reduced-intensity conditioning regimen and, to a lesser extent, the in vivo T-cell depletion with anti-thymocyte immunoglobulin were associated with high viral load. A significant correlation between EBV DNA levels in WB and PBMC samples was obtained (r = 0.755, P < 0.001). A similar kinetics of EBV DNA in the 2 blood compartments was observed. Clinically, both specimen types appeared to be equally informative to assess the risk of patients to develop PTLD. On the basis of EBV DNAemia levels, in 3 patients (10.7%) immunosuppressive therapy was reduced and 1 patient (3.5%) received early treatment for probable EBV disease. No patients developed EBV-PTLD. WB proved to be a suitable clinical specimen to monitor EBV DNA load after allo-HSCT for the management of EBV infection and PTLD prevention. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Human genome project and sickle cell disease.

PubMed

Norman, Brenda J; Miller, Sheila D

2011-01-01

Sickle cell disease is one of the most common genetic blood disorders in the United States that affects 1 in every 375 African Americans. Sickle cell disease is an inherited condition caused by abnormal hemoglobin in the red blood cells. The Human Genome Project has provided valuable insight and extensive research advances in the understanding of the human genome and sickle cell disease. Significant progress in genetic knowledge has led to an increase in the ability for researchers to map and sequence genes for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of sickle cell disease and other chronic illnesses. This article explores some of the recent knowledge and advances about sickle cell disease and the Human Genome Project.

Simultaneous and multiplexed detection of exosome microRNAs using molecular beacons.

PubMed

Lee, Ji Hye; Kim, Jeong Ah; Jeong, Seunga; Rhee, Won Jong

2016-12-15

Simultaneous and multiplexed detection of microRNAs (miRNAs) in a whole exosome is developed, which can be utilized as a PCR-free efficient diagnosis method for various diseases. Exosomes are small extracellular vesicles that contain biomarker miRNAs from parental cells. Because they circulate throughout bodily fluids, exosomal biomarkers offer great advantages for diagnosis in many aspects. In general, PCR-based methods can be used for exosomal miRNA detection but they are laborious, expensive, and time-consuming, which make them unsuitable for high-throughput diagnosis of diseases. Previously, we reported that single miRNA in the exosomes can be detected specifically using an oligonucleotide probe or molecular beacon. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time that multiple miRNAs can be detected simultaneously in exosomes using miRNA-targeting molecular beacons. Exosomes from a breast cancer cell line, MCF-7, were used for the production of exosomes because MCF-7 has a high level of miR-21, miR-375, and miR-27a as target miRNAs. Molecular beacons successfully hybridized with multiple miRNAs in the cancer cell-derived exosomes even in the presence of high human serum concentration. In addition, it is noteworthy that the choice of fluorophores for multiplexing biomarkers in an exosome is crucial because of its small size. The proposed method described in this article is beneficial to high-throughput analysis for disease diagnosis, prognosis, and response to treatment because it is a time-, labor-, and cost-saving technique. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Molecular epidemiology of HIV, HBV, HCV, and HTLV-1/2 in drug abuser inmates in central Javan prisons, Indonesia.

PubMed

Prasetyo, Afiono Agung; Dirgahayu, Paramasari; Sari, Yulia; Hudiyono, Hudiyono; Kageyama, Seiji

2013-06-15

This study was conducted to determine the current molecular prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis D virus (HDV), and human T lymphotropic virus-1/2 (HTLV-1/2) circulating among drug abuser inmates incarcerated in prisons located in Central Java, Indonesia. Socio-epidemiological data and blood specimens were collected from 375 drug abuser inmates in four prisons. The blood samples were analyzed with serological and molecular testing for HIV, HBV, HCV, HDV, and HTLV-1/2. The seroprevalence of HIV, HBsAg, HCV, HDV, and HTLV-1/2 in drug abuser inmates was 4.8% (18/375), 3.2% (12/375), 34.1% (128/375), 0% (0/375), and 3.7% (14/375), respectively. No co-infections of HIV and HBV were found. Co-infections of HIV/HCV, HIV/HTLV-1/2, HBV/HCV, HBV/HTLV-1/2, and HCV/HTLV-1/2 were prevalent at rates of 4% (15/375), 1.3% (5/375), 1.1% (4/375), 0.3% (1/375), and 2.1% (8/375), respectively. The HIV/HCV co-infection rate was significantly higher in injection drug users (IDUs) compared to non-IDUs. Triple co-infection of HIV/HCV/HTLV-1/2 was found only in three IDUs (0.8%). HIV CRF01_AE was found to be circulating in the inmates. HBV genotype B3 predominated, followed by C1. Subtypes adw and adr were found. HCV genotype 1a predominated among HCV-infected inmates, followed by 1c, 3k, 3a, 4a, and 1b. All HTLV-1 isolates shared 100% homology with HTLV-1 isolated in Japan, while all of the HTLV-2 isolates were subtype 2a. Drug abuser inmates in prisons may offer a unique community to bridge prevention and control of human blood-borne virus infection to the general community.

ABCB1 identifies a subpopulation of uveal melanoma cells with high metastatic propensity

PubMed Central

Landreville, Solange; Agapova, Olga A.; Kneass, Zachary T.; Salesse, Christian; Harbour, J. William

2011-01-01

SUMMARY Metastasis of tumor cells to distant organs is the leading cause of death in melanoma. Yet, the mechanisms of metastasis remain poorly understood. One key question is whether all cells in a primary tumor are equally likely to metastasize or whether subpopulations of cells preferentially give rise to metastases. Here, we identified a subpopulation of uveal melanoma cells expressing the multidrug resistance transporter ABCB1 that are highly metastatic compared to ABCB1− bulk tumor cells. ABCB1+ cells also exhibited enhanced clonogenicity, anchorage independent growth, tumorigenicity and mitochondrial activity compared to ABCB1− cells. A375 cutaneous melanoma cells contained a similar subpopulation of highly metastatic ABCB1+ cells. These findings suggest that some uveal melanoma cells have greater potential for metastasis than others, and that a better understanding of such cells may be necessary for more successful therapies for metastatic melanoma. PMID:21575142

Unraveling the cytotoxicity and metabolic pathways of binary natural deep eutectic solvent systems

PubMed Central

Mbous, Yves Paul; Hayyan, Maan; Wong, Won Fen; Looi, Chung Yeng; Hashim, Mohd Ali

2017-01-01

In this study, the anticancer potential and cytotoxicity of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) were assessed using HelaS3, PC3, A375, AGS, MCF-7, and WRL-68 hepatic cell lines. NADESs were prepared from choline chloride, fructose, or glucose and compared with an N,N-diethyl ethanolammonium chloride:triethylene glycol DES. The NADESs (98 ≤ EC50 ≥ 516 mM) were less toxic than the DES (34 ≤ EC50 ≥ 120 mM). The EC50 values of the NADESs were significantly higher than those of the aqueous solutions of their individual components but were similar to those of the aqueous solutions of combinations of their chief elements. Due to the uniqueness of these results, the possibility that NADESs could be synthesized intracellularly to counterbalance the cytotoxicity of their excess principal constituents must be entertained. However, further research is needed to explore this avenue. NADESs exerted cytotoxicity by increasing membrane porosity and redox stress. In vivo, they were more destructive than the DES and induced liver failure. The potential of these mixtures was evidenced by their anticancer activity and intracellular processing. This infers that they can serve as tools for increasing our understanding of cell physiology and metabolism. It is likely that we only have begun to comprehend the nature of NADESs. PMID:28145498

Unraveling the cytotoxicity and metabolic pathways of binary natural deep eutectic solvent systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mbous, Yves Paul; Hayyan, Maan; Wong, Won Fen; Looi, Chung Yeng; Hashim, Mohd Ali

2017-02-01

In this study, the anticancer potential and cytotoxicity of natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) were assessed using HelaS3, PC3, A375, AGS, MCF-7, and WRL-68 hepatic cell lines. NADESs were prepared from choline chloride, fructose, or glucose and compared with an N,N-diethyl ethanolammonium chloride:triethylene glycol DES. The NADESs (98 ≤ EC50 ≥ 516 mM) were less toxic than the DES (34 ≤ EC50 ≥ 120 mM). The EC50 values of the NADESs were significantly higher than those of the aqueous solutions of their individual components but were similar to those of the aqueous solutions of combinations of their chief elements. Due to the uniqueness of these results, the possibility that NADESs could be synthesized intracellularly to counterbalance the cytotoxicity of their excess principal constituents must be entertained. However, further research is needed to explore this avenue. NADESs exerted cytotoxicity by increasing membrane porosity and redox stress. In vivo, they were more destructive than the DES and induced liver failure. The potential of these mixtures was evidenced by their anticancer activity and intracellular processing. This infers that they can serve as tools for increasing our understanding of cell physiology and metabolism. It is likely that we only have begun to comprehend the nature of NADESs.

Dietary sodium gluconate protects rats from large bowel cancer by stimulating butyrate production.

PubMed

Kameue, Chiyoko; Tsukahara, Takamitsu; Yamada, Kouji; Koyama, Hironari; Iwasaki, Yoshie; Nakayama, Keizo; Ushida, Kazunari

2004-04-01

Butyrate has an antitumorigenic effect on colorectal cancer cell lines. Dietary sodium gluconate (GNA) promotes butyrate production in the large intestine. Accordingly, we examined the effect of dietary GNA on tumorigenesis in the large intestine in rats. Male Fisher-344 rats (n = 32) were divided into 4 groups: 2 diets (with or without 50 g GNA/kg basal diet) x 2 treatments (with or without carcinogen administration). Colonic tumors were induced by 3 intraperitoneal injections of azoxymethane (15 mg/kg body wt, 1 time/wk) and dietary deoxycholic acid (2 g/kg basal diet). The experiment was conducted for 33 wk except for a few rats. Ingestion of GNA increased cecal butyrate concentration at the end of experiment (P < 0.01). No tumor development occurred in the untreated groups. Ingestion of GNA decreased the incidence of tumors in rats administered the carcinogen (37.5 vs. 100%, P < 0.05). Ingestion of GNA also decreased the mean number of tumors per rat (0.5 +/- 0.8 vs. 2.8 +/- 1.5, P < 0.01). beta-Catenin accumulation and TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) positive cells in tumors were histochemically examined. The results of this study suggested that the antitumorigenic effect of GNA may involve the stimulation of apoptosis through enhanced butyrate production in the large intestine.

Inhibition of Breast Cancer Progression by Blocking Heterocellular Contact between Epithelial Cells and Fibroblasts

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-04-01

0 :.;:; (1J ~ ....... 1.50 --? Z ; () ə> a. - (/) <( 0.75 0 30/30 0 0 1.500 0 1.375 -- c;;V 0 0 ....... (lj ~ 0 ....... (.) 1.250 ə> a...1090. 7. Sadlonova, A.; Novak, Z .; Johnson, M. R.; Bowe, D. B.; Gault, S. R.; Page, G. P.; Thottassery, J. V.; Welch, D. R.; Frost, A. R., Breast...stimulates human breast cancer cell proliferation via FGF2 activation. Journal of Biological Chemistry 2007, 282 (20), 14906-14915. 12. Wozniak , M. A

Synergy of a combination of nisin and citric acid against Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes.

PubMed

Zhao, Xingchen; Zhen, Zhen; Wang, Xinyang; Guo, Na

2017-12-01

Food-borne diseases caused by pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes, have long attracted attention globally from researchers, food industries, and food safety authorities. Nisin (NS) is the only bacteriocin used worldwide as a generally recognised as safe (GRAS) food preservative, while citric acid (CA) has an unrestricted use in foods since it has GRAS status. In this study, synergistic interactions of NS combined with CA against S. aureus and L. monocytogenes were studied by the chequerboard microdilution method, with fractional inhibitory concentration index values ranging from 0.25 to 0.375 and 0.19 to 0.375, respectively. The positive interactions were verified by time-kill studies in pasteurised milk and disk diffusion assays. The mechanism of the synergistic antibacterial of NS and CA is proposed following SEM analysis and the determination of release of cell constituents. These results suggest that the cell walls and membrane are the probable main targets of this antimicrobial combination. These findings indicated that the combination of NS and CA not only could be used as a new promising naturally sourced food preservative, but may also reduce the problem of bacterial resistance.

Gemcitabine-oxaliplatin plus rituximab (R-GemOx) as first-line treatment in elderly patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: a single-arm, open-label, phase 2 trial.

PubMed

Shen, Qiu-Dan; Zhu, Hua-Yuan; Wang, Li; Fan, Lei; Liang, Jin-Hua; Cao, Lei; Wu, Wei; Xia, Yi; Li, Jian-Yong; Xu, Wei

2018-06-01

The combination of rituximab, gemcitabine, and oxaliplatin (R-GemOx) has shown high efficacy with a low toxicity profile in elderly patients with relapsed and refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and feasibility of the R-GemOx regimen as a first-line treatment in elderly patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. In this single-arm, open-label, phase 2 clinical trial, we enrolled patients with previously untreated, histologically confirmed, CD20-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, aged 70 years or older, or aged 60-69 years with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status score of 2 or greater. Patients were recruited from Jiangsu Province Hospital (Jiangsu Sheng, China). The R-GemOx regimen was administered intravenously: rituximab 375 mg/m 2 on day 0; gemcitabine 1 g/m 2 on day 1; and oxaliplatin 100 mg/m 2 on day 1. The cycle was repeated every 14 days. Six cycles were planned if the patient achieved at least partial remission after the interim assessment. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients who achieved an overall response at the end of treatment (defined as complete response plus partial response). Analyses were done by intention to treat. The trial is ongoing but no longer recruiting patients. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, number NCT01670370. Between Aug 22, 2012, and Dec 31, 2015, 60 patients were enrolled and included in the study. The median age of the patients was 75 years (IQR 70-80) and 27 (45%) patients had a poor performance status with an ECOG score of 2 or greater. 45 (75%) patients achieved an overall response at the end of the treatment, with 28 (47%) achieving a complete response. Common grade 3-4 adverse events were haematological toxicities (thrombocytopenia in five [8%] patients, anaemia in four [7%], and neutropenia in nine [15%]) and gastrointestinal complications (nausea in five [8%] patients, vomiting in three [5%], and diarrhoea in one [2%]). No treatment-related deaths were reported. The R-GemOx regimen shows high efficacy and safety as a front-line treatment in an elderly patient subpopulation and might be a therapeutic option for management of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in elderly patients. National Natural Science Foundation of China, Jiangsu Province's Medical Elite Programme, Project of National Key Clinical Specialty, National Science & Technology Pillar Program, Jiangsu Provincial Special Program of Medical, and National Science and Technology Major Project. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Preparation and characterization of magnetic nanoparticles containing Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-human chorionic gonadotropin, a new generation choriocarcinoma-specific gene vector.

PubMed

Jingting, Cai; Huining, Liu; Yi, Zhang

2011-01-01

To evaluate the feasibility of using magnetic iron oxide (Fe(3)O(4))-dextran-anti-β-human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) nanoparticles as a gene vector for cellular transfections. Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles were synthesized by chemical coprecipitation. The configuration, diameter, and iron content of the nanoparticles were detected by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), light scatter, and atomic absorption spectrophotometry. A3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo(-z-y1)-3,5-di-phenytetrazoliumromide assay was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and indirect immunofluorescence were used to evaluate immunoreactivity. The efficiency of absorbing DNA and resisting deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) digestion when bound to Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles was examined by agarose gel electrophoresis. The ability of Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles to absorb heparanase antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (AS-ODN) nanoparticles in different cell lines was evaluated by flow cytometry. The tissue distribution of heparanase AS-ODN magnetic nanoparticles in choriocarcinoma tumors transplanted in nude mice was detected by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. TEM demonstrated that the shape of nanoparticles is irregular. Light scatter revealed nanoparticles with a mean diameter of 75.5 nm and an iron content of 37.5 μg/mL. No cytotoxicity was observed when the concentration of Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles was <37.5 μg/mL. Fe(3)O(4)-dextran nanoparticles have a satisfactory potential to combine with β-HCG antibody. Agarose gel electrophoresis analysis of binding experiments showed that after treatment with sodium periodate, Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles have a satisfactory potential to absorb DNA, and the protection experiment showed that nanoparticles can effectively protect DNA from DNase I digestion. Aldehyde Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles can transfect reporter genes, and the transfection efficiency of these nanoparticles is greater than that of liposomes (P < 0.05). Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles can concentrate in choriocarcinoma cells and in transplanted choriocarcinoma tumors. The results confirm that Fe(3)O(4)-dextran-anti-β-HCG nanoparticles have potential as a secure, effective, and choriocarcinoma-specific targeting gene vector.

Supression of humoral immunity by perfluorooctanic acid is independent of elevated serum corticosterone concentration in mice

EPA Science Inventory

The T-cell-dependent antibody response is suppressed in mice exposed to 3.75, 7.5, 15, and 30 mg PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid)/kg body weight (bw). Reduced bw accompanied immunosuppression at 15 and 30 mg/kg. We investigated the hypothesis that the observed immunosuppression is s...

76 FR 10038 - National Institute of General Medical Sciences; Notice of Closed Meeting

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-02-23

... Sciences Special Emphasis Panel, PSI Biology Meeting. Date: March 11, 2011. Time: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Agenda... Nos. 93.375, Minority Biomedical Research Support; 93.821, Cell Biology and Biophysics Research; 93... Biology Research; 93.88, Minority Access to Research Careers; 93.96, Special Minority Initiatives...

Effect of therapy switch on time to second-line antiretroviral treatment failure in HIV-infected patients

PubMed Central

Neogi, Ujjwal; Gisslen, Magnus; Hejdeman, Bo; Flamholc, Leo; Sönnerborg, Anders

2017-01-01

Background Switch from first line antiretroviral therapy (ART) to second-line ART is common in clinical practice. However, there is limited knowledge of to which extent different reason for therapy switch are associated with differences in long-term consequences and sustainability of the second line ART. Material and methods Data from 869 patients with 14601 clinical visits between 1999–2014 were derived from the national cohort database. Reason for therapy switch and viral load (VL) levels at first-line ART failure were compared with regard to outcome of second line ART. Using the Laplace regression model we analyzed the median, 10th, 20th, 30th and 40th percentile of time to viral failure (VF). Results Most patients (n = 495; 57.0%) switched from first-line to second-line ART without VF. Patients switching due to detectable VL with (n = 124; 14.2%) or without drug resistance mutations (DRM) (n = 250; 28.8%) experienced VF to their second line regimen sooner (median time, years: 3.43 (95% CI 2.90–3.96) and 3.20 (95% 2.65–3.75), respectively) compared with those who switched without VF (4.53 years). Furthermore level of VL at first-line ART failure had a significant impact on failure of second-line ART starting after 2.5 years of second-line ART. Conclusions In the context of life-long therapy, a median time on second line ART of 4.53 years for these patients is short. To prolong time on second-line ART, further studies are needed on the reasons for therapy changes. Additionally patients with a high VL at first-line VF should be more frequently monitored the period after the therapy switch. PMID:28727795

Strategic formulation of apigenin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles for intracellular trafficking, DNA targeting and improved therapeutic effects in skin melanoma in vitro.

PubMed

Das, Sreemanti; Das, Jayeeta; Samadder, Asmita; Paul, Avijit; Khuda-Bukhsh, Anisur Rahman

2013-11-25

The aim of the present study was the evaluation of anti-proliferative potentials of apigenin (Ap), (a dietary flavonoid) loaded in poly (lactic-co-glycolide) nanoparticles (NAp) in A375 cells in vitro. NAp was characterized for particle size, morphology, zeta potential, drug release and encapsulation. Cellular entry and intracellular localization of NAp were assessed by transmission electron and confocal microscopies. Circular dichroic spectral analysis and stability curve for Gibb's free energy of dsDNA of A375 cells were also analyzed. DNA fragmentation, intracellular ROS accumulation, superoxide-dismutase activity, intracellular glutathione-reductase content and mitochondrial functioning through relevant markers like mitochondrial transmembrane potential, ATPase activity, ATP/ADP ratio, volume changes/swelling, cytochrome-c release, expressions of Apaf-1, bax, bcl-2, caspase-9, 3, and PARP cleavage were analyzed. NAp produced better effects due to their smaller size, faster mobility and site-specific action. Photostability studies revealed that PLGA encapsulations were efficient at preserving apigenin ultraviolet-light mediated photodegradation. NAp readily entered cancer cells, could intercalate with dsDNA, inducing conformational change. Corresponding increase in ROS accumulation and depletion of the antioxidant enzyme activities exacerbated DNA damage, mediating apoptosis through mitochondrial dysfunction. Overall results indicate that therapeutic efficacy of NAp may be enhanced by PLGA nanoparticle formulations to have better ameliorative potentials in combating skin melanoma. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Rituximab plus cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone in patients with newly diagnosed diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma: a phase 3 comparison of dose intensification with 14-day versus 21-day cycles.

PubMed

Cunningham, David; Hawkes, Eliza A; Jack, Andrew; Qian, Wendi; Smith, Paul; Mouncey, Paul; Pocock, Christopher; Ardeshna, Kirit M; Radford, John A; McMillan, Andrew; Davies, John; Turner, Deborah; Kruger, Anton; Johnson, Peter; Gambell, Joanna; Linch, David

2013-05-25

Dose intensification with a combination of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone (CHOP) every 2 weeks improves outcomes in patients older than 60 years with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma compared with CHOP every 3 weeks. We investigated whether this survival benefit from dose intensification persists in the presence of rituximab (R-CHOP) in all age groups. Patients (aged ≥18 years) with previously untreated bulky stage IA to stage IV diffuse large B-cell lymphoma in 119 centres in the UK were randomly assigned centrally in a one-to-one ratio, using minimisation, to receive six cycles of R-CHOP every 14 days plus two cycles of rituximab (R-CHOP-14) or eight cycles of R-CHOP every 21 days (R-CHOP-21). R-CHOP-21 was intravenous cyclophosphamide 750 mg/m(2), doxorubicin 50 mg/m(2), vincristine 1·4 mg/m(2) (maximum dose 2 mg), and rituximab 375 mg/m(2) on day 1, and oral prednisolone 40 mg/m(2) on days 1-5, administered every 21 days for a total of eight cycles. R-CHOP-14 was intravenous cyclophosphamide 750 mg/m(2), doxorubicin 50 mg/m(2), vincristine 2 mg, rituximab 375 mg/m(2) on day 1, and oral prednisolone 100 mg on days 1-5, administered every 14 days for six cycles, followed by two further infusions of rituximab 375 mg/m(2) on day 1 every 14 days. The trial was not masked. The primary outcome was overall survival (OS). This study is registered, number ISRCTN 16017947. 1080 patients were assigned to R-CHOP-21 (n=540) and R-CHOP-14 (n=540). With a median follow-up of 46 months (IQR 35-57), 2-year OS was 82·7% (79·5-85·9) in the R-CHOP-14 group and 80·8% (77·5-84·2) in the R-CHOP-21 (standard) group (hazard ratio 0·90, 95% CI 0·70-1·15; p=0·3763). No significant improvement was noted in 2-year progression-free survival (R-CHOP-14 75·4%, 71·8-79·1, and R-CHOP-21 74·8%, 71·0-78·4; 0·94, 0·76-1·17; p=0·5907). High international prognostic index, poor-prognosis molecular characteristics, and cell of origin were not predictive for benefit from either schedule. Grade 3 or 4 neutropenia was higher in the R-CHOP-21 group (318 [60%] of 534 vs 167 [31%] of 534), with no prophylactic use of recombinant human granulocyte-colony stimulating factor mandated in this group, whereas grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia was higher with R-CHOP-14 (50 [9%] vs 28 [5%]); other frequent grade 3 or 4 adverse events were febrile neutropenia (58 [11%] vs 28 [5%]) and infection (125 [23%] vs 96 [18%]). Frequencies of non-haematological adverse events were similar in the R-CHOP-21 and R-CHOP-14 groups. R-CHOP-14 is not superior to R-CHOP-21 chemotherapy for previously untreated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma; therefore, R-CHOP-21 remains the standard first-line treatment in patients with this haematological malignancy. No molecular or clinical subgroup benefited from dose intensification in this study. Chugai Pharmaceutical, Cancer Research UK, National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centres scheme at both University College London and the Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, and Institute of Cancer Research. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

18 CFR 375.313 - Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator. 375.313 Section 375.313 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.313 Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator... requests for critical energy infrastructure information as defined in § 388.113(c)(1). (b) Make...

18 CFR 375.313 - Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator. 375.313 Section 375.313 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.313 Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator... requests for critical energy infrastructure information as defined in § 388.113(c)(1). (b) Make...

18 CFR 375.313 - Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-04-01

... Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator. 375.313 Section 375.313 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.313 Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator... requests for critical energy infrastructure information as defined in § 388.113(c)(1). (b) Make...

18 CFR 375.313 - Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator. 375.313 Section 375.313 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.313 Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator... requests for critical energy infrastructure information as defined in § 388.113(c)(1). (b) Make...

18 CFR 375.313 - Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator. 375.313 Section 375.313 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.313 Delegations to the Critical Energy Infrastructure Information Coordinator... requests for critical energy infrastructure information as defined in § 388.113(c)(1). (b) Make...

14 CFR 375.42 - Transport operations-occasional planeload charters.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Transport operations-occasional planeload charters. 375.42 Section 375.42 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION... Operations Requiring Specific Preflight Authorization of Filing § 375.42 Transport operations—occasional...

14 CFR 375.42 - Transport operations-occasional planeload charters.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Transport operations-occasional planeload charters. 375.42 Section 375.42 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION... Operations Requiring Specific Preflight Authorization of Filing § 375.42 Transport operations—occasional...

Bis-Indolyl Benzenoids, Hydroxypyrrolidine Derivatives and Other Constituents from Cultures of the Marine Sponge-Associated Fungus Aspergillus candidus KUFA0062

PubMed Central

Ramos, Alice A.; Inácio, Ângela; Dethoup, Tida; Lee, Michael; Sekeroglu, Nazim; Rocha, Eduardo

2018-01-01

A previously unreported bis-indolyl benzenoid, candidusin D (2e) and a new hydroxypyrrolidine alkaloid, preussin C (5b) were isolated together with fourteen previously described compounds: palmitic acid, clionasterol, ergosterol 5,8-endoperoxides, chrysophanic acid (1a), emodin (1b), six bis-indolyl benzenoids including asterriquinol D dimethyl ether (2a), petromurin C (2b), kumbicin B (2c), kumbicin A (2d), 2″-oxoasterriquinol D methyl ether (3), kumbicin D (4), the hydroxypyrrolidine alkaloid preussin (5a), (3S, 6S)-3,6-dibenzylpiperazine-2,5-dione (6) and 4-(acetylamino) benzoic acid (7), from the cultures of the marine sponge-associated fungus Aspergillus candidus KUFA 0062. Compounds 1a, 2a–e, 3, 4, 5a–b, and 6 were tested for their antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative reference and multidrug-resistant strains isolated from the environment. Only 5a exhibited an inhibitory effect against S. aureus ATCC 29213 and E. faecalis ATCC29212 as well as both methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) strains. Both 1a and 5a also reduced significant biofilm formation in E. coli ATCC 25922. Moreover, 2b and 5a revealed a synergistic effect with oxacillin against MRSA S. aureus 66/1 while 5a exhibited a strong synergistic effect with the antibiotic colistin against E. coli 1410/1. Compound 1a, 2a–e, 3, 4, 5a–b, and 6 were also tested, together with the crude extract, for cytotoxic effect against eight cancer cell lines: HepG2, HT29, HCT116, A549, A 375, MCF-7, U-251, and T98G. Except for 1a, 2a, 2d, 4, and 6, all the compounds showed cytotoxicity against all the cancer cell lines tested. PMID:29642369

Identification of methyl violet 2B as a novel blocker of focal adhesion kinase signaling pathway in cancer cells

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Kim, Hwan; Translational Research Center for Protein Function Control; Kim, Nam Doo

2013-07-26

Highlights: •FAK signaling cascade in cancer cells is profoundly inhibited by methyl violet 2B. •Methyl violet 2B identified by virtual screening is a novel allosteric FAK inhibitor. •Methyl violet 2B possesses extremely high kinase selectivity. •Methyl violet 2B suppresses strongly the proliferation of cancer cells. •Methyl violet 2B inhibits focal adhesion, invasion and migration of cancer cells. -- Abstract: The focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling cascade in cancer cells was profoundly inhibited by methyl violet 2B identified with the structure-based virtual screening. Methyl violet 2B was shown to be a non-competitive inhibitor of full-length FAK enzyme vs. ATP. It turnedmore » out that methyl violet 2B possesses extremely high kinase selectivity in biochemical kinase profiling using a large panel of kinases. Anti-proliferative activity measurement against several different cancer cells and Western blot analysis showed that this substance is capable of suppressing significantly the proliferation of cancer cells and is able to strongly block FAK/AKT/MAPK signaling pathways in a dose dependent manner at low nanomolar concentration. Especially, phosphorylation of Tyr925-FAK that is required for full activation of FAK was nearly completely suppressed even with 1 nM of methyl violet 2B in A375P cancer cells. To the best of our knowledge, it has never been reported that methyl violet possesses anti-cancer effects. Moreover, methyl violet 2B significantly inhibited FER kinase phosphorylation that activates FAK in cell. In addition, methyl violet 2B was found to induce cell apoptosis and to exhibit strong inhibitory effects on the focal adhesion, invasion, and migration of A375P cancer cells at low nanomolar concentrations. Taken together, these results show that methyl violet 2B is a novel, potent and selective blocker of FAK signaling cascade, which displays strong anti-proliferative activities against a variety of human cancer cells and suppresses adhesion/migration/invasion of tumor cells.« less

14 CFR 375.31 - Demonstration flights of foreign aircraft.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Demonstration flights of foreign aircraft. 375.31 Section 375.31 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION... Authorized Operations § 375.31 Demonstration flights of foreign aircraft. Flights of foreign civil aircraft...

14 CFR 375.19 - Nature of privilege conferred.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Nature of privilege conferred. 375.19 Section 375.19 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION... Applicable § 375.19 Nature of privilege conferred. The provisions of this part, and of any permit issued...

14 CFR 375.19 - Nature of privilege conferred.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Nature of privilege conferred. 375.19 Section 375.19 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION... Applicable § 375.19 Nature of privilege conferred. The provisions of this part, and of any permit issued...

14 CFR 375.19 - Nature of privilege conferred.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Nature of privilege conferred. 375.19 Section 375.19 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION... Applicable § 375.19 Nature of privilege conferred. The provisions of this part, and of any permit issued...

18 CFR 375.305 - Delegations to the Solicitor.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... 18 Conservation of Power and Water Resources 1 2011-04-01 2011-04-01 false Delegations to the Solicitor. 375.305 Section 375.305 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REVISED GENERAL RULES THE COMMISSION Delegations § 375.305 Delegations to...

14 CFR 375.19 - Nature of privilege conferred.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Nature of privilege conferred. 375.19 Section 375.19 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION... Applicable § 375.19 Nature of privilege conferred. The provisions of this part, and of any permit issued...

14 CFR 375.19 - Nature of privilege conferred.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Nature of privilege conferred. 375.19 Section 375.19 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION... Applicable § 375.19 Nature of privilege conferred. The provisions of this part, and of any permit issued...

10 CFR 205.375 - Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 10 Energy 3 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. 205.375 Section 205.375 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY OIL ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES AND SANCTIONS Electric... Electric Power § 205.375 Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. An inadequate utility system...

10 CFR 205.375 - Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 10 Energy 3 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. 205.375 Section 205.375 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY OIL ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES AND SANCTIONS Electric... Electric Power § 205.375 Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. An inadequate utility system...

10 CFR 205.375 - Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 10 Energy 3 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. 205.375 Section 205.375 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY OIL ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES AND SANCTIONS Electric... Electric Power § 205.375 Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. An inadequate utility system...

10 CFR 205.375 - Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 10 Energy 3 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. 205.375 Section 205.375 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY OIL ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES AND SANCTIONS Electric... Electric Power § 205.375 Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. An inadequate utility system...

10 CFR 205.375 - Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 10 Energy 3 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. 205.375 Section 205.375 Energy DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY OIL ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES AND SANCTIONS Electric... Electric Power § 205.375 Guidelines defining inadequate fuel or energy supply. An inadequate utility system...

Multicolor microRNA FISH effectively differentiates tumor types

PubMed Central

Renwick, Neil; Cekan, Pavol; Masry, Paul A.; McGeary, Sean E.; Miller, Jason B.; Hafner, Markus; Li, Zhen; Mihailovic, Aleksandra; Morozov, Pavel; Brown, Miguel; Gogakos, Tasos; Mobin, Mehrpouya B.; Snorrason, Einar L.; Feilotter, Harriet E.; Zhang, Xiao; Perlis, Clifford S.; Wu, Hong; Suárez-Fariñas, Mayte; Feng, Huichen; Shuda, Masahiro; Moore, Patrick S.; Tron, Victor A.; Chang, Yuan; Tuschl, Thomas

2013-01-01

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are excellent tumor biomarkers because of their cell-type specificity and abundance. However, many miRNA detection methods, such as real-time PCR, obliterate valuable visuospatial information in tissue samples. To enable miRNA visualization in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, we developed multicolor miRNA FISH. As a proof of concept, we used this method to differentiate two skin tumors, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), with overlapping histologic features but distinct cellular origins. Using sequencing-based miRNA profiling and discriminant analysis, we identified the tumor-specific miRNAs miR-205 and miR-375 in BCC and MCC, respectively. We addressed three major shortcomings in miRNA FISH, identifying optimal conditions for miRNA fixation and ribosomal RNA (rRNA) retention using model compounds and high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) analyses, enhancing signal amplification and detection by increasing probe-hapten linker lengths, and improving probe specificity using shortened probes with minimal rRNA sequence complementarity. We validated our method on 4 BCC and 12 MCC tumors. Amplified miR-205 and miR-375 signals were normalized against directly detectable reference rRNA signals. Tumors were classified using predefined cutoff values, and all were correctly identified in blinded analysis. Our study establishes a reliable miRNA FISH technique for parallel visualization of differentially expressed miRNAs in FFPE tumor tissues. PMID:23728175

Optimization, formulation, and characterization of multiflavonoids-loaded flavanosome by bulk or sequential technique

PubMed Central

Karthivashan, Govindarajan; Masarudin, Mas Jaffri; Kura, Aminu Umar; Abas, Faridah; Fakurazi, Sharida

2016-01-01

This study involves adaptation of bulk or sequential technique to load multiple flavonoids in a single phytosome, which can be termed as “flavonosome”. Three widely established and therapeutically valuable flavonoids, such as quercetin (Q), kaempferol (K), and apigenin (A), were quantified in the ethyl acetate fraction of Moringa oleifera leaves extract and were commercially obtained and incorporated in a single flavonosome (QKA–phosphatidylcholine) through four different methods of synthesis – bulk (M1) and serialized (M2) co-sonication and bulk (M3) and sequential (M4) co-loading. The study also established an optimal formulation method based on screening the synthesized flavonosomes with respect to their size, charge, polydispersity index, morphology, drug–carrier interaction, antioxidant potential through in vitro 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl kinetics, and cytotoxicity evaluation against human hepatoma cell line (HepaRG). Furthermore, entrapment and loading efficiency of flavonoids in the optimal flavonosome have been identified. Among the four synthesis methods, sequential loading technique has been optimized as the best method for the synthesis of QKA–phosphatidylcholine flavonosome, which revealed an average diameter of 375.93±33.61 nm, with a zeta potential of −39.07±3.55 mV, and the entrapment efficiency was >98% for all the flavonoids, whereas the drug-loading capacity of Q, K, and A was 31.63%±0.17%, 34.51%±2.07%, and 31.79%±0.01%, respectively. The in vitro 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl kinetics of the flavonoids indirectly depicts the release kinetic behavior of the flavonoids from the carrier. The QKA-loaded flavonosome had no indication of toxicity toward human hepatoma cell line as shown by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide result, wherein even at the higher concentration of 200 µg/mL, the flavonosomes exert >85% of cell viability. These results suggest that sequential loading technique may be a promising nanodrug delivery system for loading multiflavonoids in a single entity with sustained activity as an antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and hepatosupplement candidate. PMID:27555765

Optimization, formulation, and characterization of multiflavonoids-loaded flavanosome by bulk or sequential technique.

PubMed

Karthivashan, Govindarajan; Masarudin, Mas Jaffri; Kura, Aminu Umar; Abas, Faridah; Fakurazi, Sharida

2016-01-01

This study involves adaptation of bulk or sequential technique to load multiple flavonoids in a single phytosome, which can be termed as "flavonosome". Three widely established and therapeutically valuable flavonoids, such as quercetin (Q), kaempferol (K), and apigenin (A), were quantified in the ethyl acetate fraction of Moringa oleifera leaves extract and were commercially obtained and incorporated in a single flavonosome (QKA-phosphatidylcholine) through four different methods of synthesis - bulk (M1) and serialized (M2) co-sonication and bulk (M3) and sequential (M4) co-loading. The study also established an optimal formulation method based on screening the synthesized flavonosomes with respect to their size, charge, polydispersity index, morphology, drug-carrier interaction, antioxidant potential through in vitro 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl kinetics, and cytotoxicity evaluation against human hepatoma cell line (HepaRG). Furthermore, entrapment and loading efficiency of flavonoids in the optimal flavonosome have been identified. Among the four synthesis methods, sequential loading technique has been optimized as the best method for the synthesis of QKA-phosphatidylcholine flavonosome, which revealed an average diameter of 375.93±33.61 nm, with a zeta potential of -39.07±3.55 mV, and the entrapment efficiency was >98% for all the flavonoids, whereas the drug-loading capacity of Q, K, and A was 31.63%±0.17%, 34.51%±2.07%, and 31.79%±0.01%, respectively. The in vitro 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl kinetics of the flavonoids indirectly depicts the release kinetic behavior of the flavonoids from the carrier. The QKA-loaded flavonosome had no indication of toxicity toward human hepatoma cell line as shown by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide result, wherein even at the higher concentration of 200 µg/mL, the flavonosomes exert >85% of cell viability. These results suggest that sequential loading technique may be a promising nanodrug delivery system for loading multiflavonoids in a single entity with sustained activity as an antioxidant, hepatoprotective, and hepatosupplement candidate.

A novel interaction between calcium-modulating cyclophilin ligand and Basigin regulates calcium signaling and matrix metalloproteinase activities in human melanoma cells.

PubMed

Long, Tingting; Su, Juan; Tang, Wen; Luo, Zhongling; Liu, Shuang; Liu, Zhaoqian; Zhou, Honghao; Qi, Min; Zeng, Weiqi; Zhang, Jianglin; Chen, Xiang

2013-10-01

Intracellular free calcium is a ubiquitous second messenger regulating a multitude of normal and pathogenic cellular responses, including the development of melanoma. Upstream signaling pathways regulating the intracellular free calcium concentration ([Ca2+]i) may therefore have a significant impact on melanoma growth and metastasis. In this study, we demonstrate that the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-associated protein calcium-modulating cyclophilin ligand (CAML) is bound to Basigin, a widely expressed integral plasma membrane glycoprotein and extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN, or CD147) implicated in melanoma proliferation, invasiveness, and metastasis. This interaction between CAML and Basigin was first identified using yeast two-hybrid screening and further confirmed by co-immunoprecipitation. In human A375 melanoma cells, CAML and Basigin were co-localized to the ER. Knockdown of Basigin in melanoma cells by siRNA significantly decreased resting [Ca2+]i and the [Ca2+]i increase induced by the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+)-ATPase (SERCA) inhibitor thapsigargin (TG), indicating that the interaction between CAML and Basigin regulates ER-dependent [Ca2+]i signaling. Meanwhile upregulating the [Ca2+]i either by TG or phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) could stimulate the production of MMP-9 in A375 cells with the expression of Basigin. Our study has revealed a previously uncharacterized [Ca2+]i signaling pathway that may control melanoma invasion, and metastasis. Disruption of this pathway may be a novel therapeutic strategy for melanoma treatment. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

31 CFR 375.2 - What special definitions apply to this rule?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 2 2013-07-01 2013-07-01 false What special definitions apply to this rule? 375.2 Section 375.2 Money and Finance: Treasury Regulations Relating to Money and Finance... SECURITIES REDEMPTION OPERATIONS General Information § 375.2 What special definitions apply to this rule? The...

31 CFR 375.2 - What special definitions apply to this rule?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 2 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false What special definitions apply to this rule? 375.2 Section 375.2 Money and Finance: Treasury Regulations Relating to Money and Finance... SECURITIES REDEMPTION OPERATIONS General Information § 375.2 What special definitions apply to this rule? The...

31 CFR 375.2 - What special definitions apply to this rule?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance:Treasury 2 2012-07-01 2012-07-01 false What special definitions apply to this rule? 375.2 Section 375.2 Money and Finance: Treasury Regulations Relating to Money and Finance... SECURITIES REDEMPTION OPERATIONS General Information § 375.2 What special definitions apply to this rule? The...

31 CFR 375.2 - What special definitions apply to this rule?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... 31 Money and Finance: Treasury 2 2014-07-01 2014-07-01 false What special definitions apply to this rule? 375.2 Section 375.2 Money and Finance: Treasury Regulations Relating to Money and Finance... SECURITIES REDEMPTION OPERATIONS General Information § 375.2 What special definitions apply to this rule? The...

18 CFR 375.308 - Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Director of the Office of Energy Projects. 375.308 Section 375.308 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REVISED GENERAL RULES THE COMMISSION Delegations § 375.308 Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Projects. The Commission authorizes...

18 CFR 375.308 - Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Director of the Office of Energy Projects. 375.308 Section 375.308 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REVISED GENERAL RULES THE COMMISSION Delegations § 375.308 Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Projects. The Commission authorizes...

18 CFR 375.308 - Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Director of the Office of Energy Projects. 375.308 Section 375.308 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REVISED GENERAL RULES THE COMMISSION Delegations § 375.308 Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Projects. The Commission authorizes...

18 CFR 375.308 - Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Projects.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... Director of the Office of Energy Projects. 375.308 Section 375.308 Conservation of Power and Water Resources FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION, DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY REVISED GENERAL RULES THE COMMISSION Delegations § 375.308 Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Projects. The Commission authorizes...

Registered Report: COT drives resistance to RAF inhibition through MAP kinase pathway reactivation.

PubMed

Sharma, Vidhu; Young, Lisa; Cavadas, Miguel; Owen, Kate

2016-03-21

The Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology seeks to address growing concerns about reproducibility in scientific research by conducting replications of selected experiments from a number of high-profile papers in the field of cancer biology. The papers, which were published between 2010 and 2012, were selected on the basis of citations and Altmetric scores (Errington et al., 2014). This Registered Report describes the proposed replication plan of key experiments from "COT drives resistance to RAF inhibition through MAPK pathway reactivation" by Johannessen and colleagues, published in Nature in 2010 (Johannessen et al., 2010). The key experiments to be replicated are those reported in Figures 3B, 3D-E, 3I, and 4E-F. In Figures 3B, D-E, RPMI-7951 and OUMS023 cells were reported to exhibit robust ERK/MEK activity concomitant with reduced growth sensitivity in the presence of the BRAF inhibitor PLX4720. MAP3K8 (COT/TPL2) directly regulated MEK/ERK phosphorylation, as the treatment of RPMI-7951 cells with a MAP3K8 kinase inhibitor resulted in a dose-dependent suppression of MEK/ERK activity (Figure 3I). In contrast, MAP3K8-deficient A375 cells remained sensitive to BRAF inhibition, exhibiting reduced growth and MEK/ERK activity during inhibitor treatment. To determine if RAF and MEK inhibitors together can overcome single-agent resistance, MAP3K8-expressing A375 cells treated with PLX4720 along with MEK inhibitors significantly inhibited both cell viability and ERK activation compared to treatment with PLX4720 alone, as reported in Figures 4E-F. The Reproducibility Project: Cancer Biology is collaboration between the Center for Open Science and Science Exchange and the results of the replications will be published in eLife.

Experimental Investigation of Eccentricity Ratio, Friction, and Oil Flow of Short Journal Bearings

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dubois, G B; Ocvirk, F W

1952-01-01

An experimental investigation was conducted to obtain performance data on bearings of length-diameter ratios of 1, 1/2, and 1/4 for comparison with theoretical curves. A 1.375-inch-diameter bearing was tested at speeds up to 6000 rpm and with unit loads from 0 to 900 pounds per square inch. Experimental data for eccentricity ratio and friction followed single lines when plotted against a theoretically derived capacity number, which is equal to Sommerfeld number times the square of the length-diameter ratio. The form of the capacity number indicates that under certain conditions the eccentricity ratio is theoretically independent of bearing diameter. A method of plotting oil flow data as a single line is shown. Methods are also discussed for approximating a maximum bearing temperature and evaluating the effect of deflection or misalignment on the eccentricity ratio at the ends of the bearings.

Oligodendrocyte precursor cell transplantation promotes functional recovery following contusive spinal cord injury in rats and is associated with altered microRNA expression

PubMed Central

Yang, Jin; Xiong, Liu-Lin; Wang, You-Cui; He, Xiang; Jiang, Ling; Fu, Song-Jun; Han, Xue-Fei; Liu, Jia; Wang, Ting-Hua

2018-01-01

It has been reported that oligodendrocyte precursor cells (OPCs) may be used to treat contusive spinal cord injury (SCC), and may alter microRNA (miRNA/miR) expression following SCC in rats. However, the association between miRNA expression and the treatment of rats with SCC with OPC transplantation remain unclear. The present study transplanted OPCs into the spinal cord of rats with SCC and subsequently used the Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) score to assess the functional recovery and pain scores. An miRNA assay was performed to detect differentially expressed miRNAs in the spinal cord of SCC rats transplanted with OPCs, compared with SCC rats transplanted with medium. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to verify significantly altered miRNA expression levels. The results demonstrated that OPC transplantation was able to improve motor recovery and relieve mechanical allodynia in rats with SCC. In addition, through a miRNA assay, 45 differentially expressed miRNAs (40 upregulated miRNAs and 5 downregulated miRNAs) were detected in the spinal cord of rats in the OPC group compared with in the Medium group. Differentially expressed miRNAs were identified according to the following criteria: Fold change >2 and P<0.05. Furthermore, quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to verify the most highly upregulated (miR-375-3p and miR-1-3p) and downregulated (miR-363-3p, miR-449a-5p and miR-3074) spinal cord miRNAs that were identified in the miRNA assay. In addition, a bioinformatics analysis of these miRNAs indicated that miR-375 and miR-1 may act primarily to inhibit cell proliferation and apoptosis via transcriptional and translational regulation, whereas miR-363, miR-449a and miR-3074 may act primarily to inhibit cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation through transcriptional regulation. These results suggested that OPC transplantation may promote functional recovery of rats with SCC, which may be associated with the expression of various miRNAs in the spinal cord, including miR-375-3p, miR-1-3p, miR-363-3p, miR-449a-5p and miR-3074. PMID:29115639

Tocilizumab for the treatment of severe steroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease of the lower gastrointestinal tract.

PubMed

Ganetsky, Alex; Frey, Noelle V; Hexner, Elizabeth O; Loren, Alison W; Gill, Saar I; Luger, Selina M; Mangan, James K; Martin, Mary Ellen; Babushok, Daria V; Drobyski, William R; Smith, Jacqueline; Timlin, Colleen; Freyer, Craig W; Stadtmauer, Edward A; Porter, David L

2018-05-24

Steroid-refractory (SR) acute gastrointestinal (GI) graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) is associated with significant mortality in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients. We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy of tocilizumab for the treatment of SR biopsy-proven acute lower GI GVHD in 16 consecutive adult transplant recipients between October 2015 and July 2016. Tocilizumab 8 mg/kg was administered every 2 weeks until achievement of complete response, defined as resolution of all manifestations of GI GVHD, or until patients had progression or initiation of other therapy. Ten of 16 patients (62.5%; 95% CI, 0.39-82) achieved a complete response after a median time of 11 days (range, 2-28 days) from tocilizumab initiation. The median time to response onset (improvement in stage by at least 1) was 1 day (range, 1-4 days). Tocilizumab was administered at a median of 9 days (range, 3-75 days) from GVHD diagnosis and 10 days (range, 3-75 days) from initiation of high-dose steroids. At a median follow-up of 7.6 months (range, 0.8-27.7 months) from initiation of tocilizumab, 6/16 (37.5%) patients are alive and free of their underlying hematologic malignancy. Tocilizumab appears to be a highly active agent for the treatment of severe SR lower GI acute GVHD.

Overexpression of ATP-Binding Cassette Transporter ABCG2 as a Potential Mechanism of Acquired Resistance to Vemurafenib in BRAF(V600E) Mutant Cancer Cells

PubMed Central

Wu, Chung-Pu; Sim, Hong-May; Huang, Yang-Hui; Liu, Yen-Chen; Hsiao, Sung-Han; Cheng, Hsing-Wen; Li, Yan-Qing; Ambudkar, Suresh V.; Hsu, Sheng-Chieh

2012-01-01

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer with a high potential for metastasis and very low survival rates. The discovery of constitutive activation of the BRAF kinase caused by activating BRAF(V600E) kinase mutation in most melanoma patients led to the discovery of the first potent BRAF(V600E) signaling inhibitor, vemurafenib. Vemurafenib was effective in treating advanced melanoma patients and was proposed for the treatment of other BRAF(V600E) mutant cancers as well. Unfortunately, the success of vemurafenib was hampered by the rapid development of acquired resistance in different types of BRAF(V600E) mutant cancer cells. It becomes important to identify and evaluate all of the potential mechanisms of cellular resistance to vemurafenib. In this study, we characterized the interactions of vemurafenib with three major ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, ABCB1, ABCC1 and ABCG2. We found that vemurafenib stimulated the ATPase activity and potently inhibited drug efflux mediated by ABCB1 and ABCG2. Vemurafenib also restored drug sensitivity in ABCG2-overexpressing cells. Moreover, we revealed that in the presence of functional ABCG2, BRAF kinase inhibition by vemurafenib is reduced in BRAF(V600E) mutant A375 cells. Taken together, our findings indicate that ABCG2 confers resistance to vemurafenib in A375 cells, suggesting involvement of this transporter in acquired resistance to vemurafenib. Thus, combination chemotherapy targeting multiple pathways could be an effective therapeutic strategy to overcome acquired resistance to vemurafenib for cancers harboring the BRAF(V600E) mutation. PMID:23153455

47 CFR 36.375 - Published directory listing.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 47 Telecommunication 2 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Published directory listing. 36.375 Section 36... Customer Operations Expenses § 36.375 Published directory listing. (a) This classification includes expenses for preparing or purchasing, compiling and disseminating directory listings. (b) Published...

Investigating the role of melanin in UVA/UVB- and hydrogen peroxide-induced cellular and mitochondrial ROS production and mitochondrial DNA damage in human melanoma cells.

PubMed

Swalwell, Helen; Latimer, Jennifer; Haywood, Rachel M; Birch-Machin, Mark A

2012-02-01

Skin cancer incidence is dramatically increasing worldwide, with exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) a predominant factor. The UVA component initiates oxidative stress in human skin, although its exact role in the initiation of skin cancer, particularly malignant melanoma, remains unclear and is controversial because there is evidence for a melanin-dependent mechanism in UVA-linked melanoma studies. Nonpigmented (CHL-1, A375), moderately pigmented (FM55, SKmel23), and highly pigmented (FM94, hyperpigmented FM55) human melanoma cell lines have been used to investigate UVA-induced production of reactive oxygen species using FACS analysis, at both the cellular (dihydrorhodamine-123) and the mitochondrial (MitoSOX) level, where most cellular stress is generated. For the first time, downstream mtDNA damage (utilizing a quantitative long-PCR assay) has been investigated. Using UVA, UVB, and H(2)O(2) as cellular stressors, we have explored the dual roles of melanin as a photoprotector and photosensitizer. The presence of melanin has no influence over cellular oxidative stress generation, whereas, in contrast, melanin protects against mitochondrial superoxide generation and mtDNA damage (one-way ANOVA with post hoc Tukey's analysis, P<0.001). We show that if melanin binds directly to DNA, it acts as a direct photosensitizer of mtDNA damage during UVA irradiation (P<0.001), providing evidence for the dual roles of melanin. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

38 CFR 3.375 - Determination of inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis. 3.375 Section 3.375 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief...) in tuberculosis. (a) Pulmonary tuberculosis. A veteran shown to have had pulmonary tuberculosis will...) Nonpulmonary disease. Determination of complete arrest of nonpulmonary tuberculosis requires absence of...

29 CFR 1952.375 - Level of Federal Enforcement.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 29 Labor 9 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false Level of Federal Enforcement. 1952.375 Section 1952.375 Labor Regulations Relating to Labor (Continued) OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION... Level of Federal Enforcement. (a) As a result of the Assistant Secretary's determination granting final...

38 CFR 3.375 - Determination of inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis. 3.375 Section 3.375 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief...) in tuberculosis. (a) Pulmonary tuberculosis. A veteran shown to have had pulmonary tuberculosis will...) Nonpulmonary disease. Determination of complete arrest of nonpulmonary tuberculosis requires absence of...

38 CFR 3.375 - Determination of inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis. 3.375 Section 3.375 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief...) in tuberculosis. (a) Pulmonary tuberculosis. A veteran shown to have had pulmonary tuberculosis will...) Nonpulmonary disease. Determination of complete arrest of nonpulmonary tuberculosis requires absence of...

38 CFR 3.375 - Determination of inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis. 3.375 Section 3.375 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief...) in tuberculosis. (a) Pulmonary tuberculosis. A veteran shown to have had pulmonary tuberculosis will...) Nonpulmonary disease. Determination of complete arrest of nonpulmonary tuberculosis requires absence of...

38 CFR 3.375 - Determination of inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... inactivity (complete arrest) in tuberculosis. 3.375 Section 3.375 Pensions, Bonuses, and Veterans' Relief...) in tuberculosis. (a) Pulmonary tuberculosis. A veteran shown to have had pulmonary tuberculosis will...) Nonpulmonary disease. Determination of complete arrest of nonpulmonary tuberculosis requires absence of...

Effect of the G375C and G346E achondroplasia mutations on FGFR3 activation.

PubMed

He, Lijuan; Serrano, Christopher; Niphadkar, Nitish; Shobnam, Nadia; Hristova, Kalina

2012-01-01

Two mutations in FGFR3, G380R and G375C are known to cause achondroplasia, the most common form of human dwarfism. The G380R mutation accounts for 98% of the achondroplasia cases, and thus has been studied extensively. Here we study the effect of the G375C mutation on the phosphorylation and the cross-linking propensity of full-length FGFR3 in HEK 293 cells, and we compare the results to previously published results for the G380R mutant. We observe identical behavior of the two achondroplasia mutants in these experiments, a finding which supports a direct link between the severity of dwarfism phenotypes and the level and mechanism of FGFR3 over-activation. The mutations do not increase the cross-linking propensity of FGFR3, contrary to previous expectations that the achondroplasia mutations stabilize the FGFR3 dimers. Instead, the phosphorylation efficiency within un-liganded FGFR3 dimers is increased, and this increase is likely the underlying cause for pathogenesis in achondroplasia. We further investigate the G346E mutation, which has been reported to cause achondroplasia in one case. We find that this mutation does not increase FGFR3 phosphorylation and decreases FGFR3 cross-linking propensity, a finding which raises questions whether this mutation is indeed a genetic cause for human dwarfism.

Effect of the G375C and G346E Achondroplasia Mutations on FGFR3 Activation

PubMed Central

He, Lijuan; Serrano, Christopher; Niphadkar, Nitish; Shobnam, Nadia; Hristova, Kalina

2012-01-01

Two mutations in FGFR3, G380R and G375C are known to cause achondroplasia, the most common form of human dwarfism. The G380R mutation accounts for 98% of the achondroplasia cases, and thus has been studied extensively. Here we study the effect of the G375C mutation on the phosphorylation and the cross-linking propensity of full-length FGFR3 in HEK 293 cells, and we compare the results to previously published results for the G380R mutant. We observe identical behavior of the two achondroplasia mutants in these experiments, a finding which supports a direct link between the severity of dwarfism phenotypes and the level and mechanism of FGFR3 over-activation. The mutations do not increase the cross-linking propensity of FGFR3, contrary to previous expectations that the achondroplasia mutations stabilize the FGFR3 dimers. Instead, the phosphorylation efficiency within un-liganded FGFR3 dimers is increased, and this increase is likely the underlying cause for pathogenesis in achondroplasia. We further investigate the G346E mutation, which has been reported to cause achondroplasia in one case. We find that this mutation does not increase FGFR3 phosphorylation and decreases FGFR3 cross-linking propensity, a finding which raises questions whether this mutation is indeed a genetic cause for human dwarfism. PMID:22529939

49 CFR 375.219 - May I extend credit to shippers?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false May I extend credit to shippers? 375.219 Section... Services to My Customers Collecting Transportation Charges § 375.219 May I extend credit to shippers? You may extend credit to shippers, but, if you do, it must be in accordance with § 375.807. ...

49 CFR 375.219 - May I extend credit to shippers?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false May I extend credit to shippers? 375.219 Section... Services to My Customers Collecting Transportation Charges § 375.219 May I extend credit to shippers? You may extend credit to shippers, but, if you do, it must be in accordance with § 375.807. ...

49 CFR 375.219 - May I extend credit to shippers?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false May I extend credit to shippers? 375.219 Section... Services to My Customers Collecting Transportation Charges § 375.219 May I extend credit to shippers? You may extend credit to shippers, but, if you do, it must be in accordance with § 375.807. ...

49 CFR 375.219 - May I extend credit to shippers?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false May I extend credit to shippers? 375.219 Section... Services to My Customers Collecting Transportation Charges § 375.219 May I extend credit to shippers? You may extend credit to shippers, but, if you do, it must be in accordance with § 375.807. ...

49 CFR 375.219 - May I extend credit to shippers?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false May I extend credit to shippers? 375.219 Section... Services to My Customers Collecting Transportation Charges § 375.219 May I extend credit to shippers? You may extend credit to shippers, but, if you do, it must be in accordance with § 375.807. ...

Lycopene-rich extract from red guava (Psidium guajava L.) displays cytotoxic effect against human breast adenocarcinoma cell line MCF-7 via an apoptotic-like pathway.

PubMed

Dos Santos, Raimunda C; Ombredane, Alicia S; Souza, Jéssica Maria T; Vasconcelos, Andreanne G; Plácido, Alexandra; Amorim, Adriany das G N; Barbosa, Eder Alves; Lima, Filipe C D A; Ropke, Cristina D; Alves, Michel M M; Arcanjo, Daniel D R; Carvalho, Fernando A A; Delerue-Matos, Cristina; Joanitti, Graziella A; Leite, José Roberto de S A

2018-03-01

This study investigated a lycopene-rich extract from red guava (LEG) for its chemical composition using spectrophotometry, mass spectrometry, attenuated total reflectance-fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), and computational studies. The cytotoxic activity of LEG and the underlying mechanism was studied in human breast adenocarcinoma cells (MCF-7), murine fibroblast cells (NIH-3T3), BALB/c murine peritoneal macrophages, and sheep blood erythrocytes by evaluating the cell viability with 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method and flow cytometry. Spectrophotometry analysis showed that LEG contained 20% of lycopene per extract dry weight. Experimental and theoretical ATR-FTIR suggests the presence of lycopene, whereas MS/MS spectra obtained after fragmentation of the molecular ion [M] +• of 536.4364 show fragment ions at m/z 269.2259, 375.3034, 444.3788, and 467.3658, corroborating the presence of lycopene mostly related to all-trans configuration. Treatment with LEG (1600 to 6.25μg/mL) for 24 and 72h significantly affected the viability of MCF-7 cells (mean half maximal inhibitory concentration [IC 50 ]=29.85 and 5.964μg/mL, respectively) but not NIH-3T3 cells (IC 50 =1579 and 911.5μg/mL, respectively). Furthermore LEG at concentrations from 800 to 6.25μg/mL presented low cytotoxicity against BALB/c peritoneal macrophages (IC 50 ≥800μg/mL) and no hemolytic activity. LEG (400 and 800μg/mL) caused reduction in the cell proliferation and induced cell cycle arrest, DNA fragmentation, modifications in the mitochondrial membrane potential, and morphologic changes related to granularity and size in MCF-7 cells; however, it failed to cause any significant damage to the cell membrane or display necrosis or traditional apoptosis. In conclusion, LEG was able to induce cytostatic and cytotoxic effects on breast cancer cells probably via induction of an apoptotic-like pathway. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

CLO: The cell line ontology

PubMed Central

2014-01-01

Background Cell lines have been widely used in biomedical research. The community-based Cell Line Ontology (CLO) is a member of the OBO Foundry library that covers the domain of cell lines. Since its publication two years ago, significant updates have been made, including new groups joining the CLO consortium, new cell line cells, upper level alignment with the Cell Ontology (CL) and the Ontology for Biomedical Investigation, and logical extensions. Construction and content Collaboration among the CLO, CL, and OBI has established consensus definitions of cell line-specific terms such as ‘cell line’, ‘cell line cell’, ‘cell line culturing’, and ‘mortal’ vs. ‘immortal cell line cell’. A cell line is a genetically stable cultured cell population that contains individual cell line cells. The hierarchical structure of the CLO is built based on the hierarchy of the in vivo cell types defined in CL and tissue types (from which cell line cells are derived) defined in the UBERON cross-species anatomy ontology. The new hierarchical structure makes it easier to browse, query, and perform automated classification. We have recently added classes representing more than 2,000 cell line cells from the RIKEN BRC Cell Bank to CLO. Overall, the CLO now contains ~38,000 classes of specific cell line cells derived from over 200 in vivo cell types from various organisms. Utility and discussion The CLO has been applied to different biomedical research studies. Example case studies include annotation and analysis of EBI ArrayExpress data, bioassays, and host-vaccine/pathogen interaction. CLO’s utility goes beyond a catalogue of cell line types. The alignment of the CLO with related ontologies combined with the use of ontological reasoners will support sophisticated inferencing to advance translational informatics development. PMID:25852852

Corrective Action Investigation Plan for Corrective Action Unit 375: Area 30 Buggy Unit Craters, Nevada Test Site, Nevada

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Patrick Matthews

2010-03-01

Corrective Action Unit (CAU) 375 is located in Areas 25 and 30 of the Nevada Test Site, which is approximately 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas, Nevada. Corrective Action Unit 375 comprises the two corrective action sites (CASs) listed below: • 25-23-22, Contaminated Soils Site • 30-45-01, U-30a, b, c, d, e Craters Existing information on the nature and extent of potential contamination present at the CAU 375 CASs is insufficient to evaluate and recommend corrective action alternatives (CAAs). This document details an investigation plan that will provide for the gathering of sufficient information to evaluate and recommend CAAs. Correctivemore » Action Site 25-23-22 is composed of the releases associated with nuclear rocket testing at Test Cell A (TCA). Test Cell A was used to test and develop nuclear rocket motors as part of the Nuclear Rocket Development Station from its construction in 1958 until 1966, when rocket testing began being conducted at Test Cell C. The rocket motors were built with an unshielded nuclear reactor that produced as much as 1,100 kilowatts (at full power) to heat liquid hydrogen to 4,000 degrees Fahrenheit, at which time the expanded gases were focused out a nozzle to produce thrust. The fuel rods in the reactor were not clad and were designed to release fission fragments to the atmosphere, but due to vibrations and loss of cooling during some operational tests, fuel fragments in excess of planned releases became entrained in the exhaust and spread in the immediate surrounding area. Cleanup efforts have been undertaken at times to collect the fuel rod fragments and other contamination. Previous environmental investigations in the TCA area have resulted in the creation of a number of use restrictions. The industrial area of TCA is encompassed by a fence and is currently posted as a radioactive material area. Corrective Action Site 30-45-01 (releases associated with the Buggy Plowshare test) is located in Area 30 on Chukar Mesa. It was a Plowshare test where five nuclear devices were buried 140 feet (ft) deep in a row at 150-ft intervals. These devices were detonated on March 12, 1968, to produce a trench 254 ft wide, 865 ft long, and 70 ft deep. The mesa where the test was conducted is surrounded on three sides by ravines, and the entire end of the mesa is fenced and posted as a contamination area. These sites are being investigated because existing information on the nature and extent of potential contamination is insufficient to evaluate and recommend CAAs. Additional information will be obtained by conducting a corrective action investigation before evaluating CAAs and selecting the appropriate corrective action for each CAS. The results of the field investigation will support a defensible evaluation of viable CAAs that will be presented in the Corrective Action Decision Document. The sites will be investigated based on the data quality objectives (DQOs) developed on December 2, 2009, by representatives of the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), National Nuclear Security Administration Nevada Site Office. The DQO process was used to identify and define the type, amount, and quality of data needed to develop and evaluate appropriate corrective actions for CAU 375.« less

Testing and Evaluation of the International Biomedical Inc. Neonatal Transport System.

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-12-01

nationals. This report has been reviewed and is approved for publication. RICHARD J. KNECHT, Lt Col, USAF, NC ROGER L. STORK , Colonel, USAF, BSC Project...required by the 375th Aeromedical Airlift Wing surgeon (375 AAW/SG); a process that can consume precious time. (NOTE: The 375 AAW was later redesignated...the 375th Military Airlift Wing , and the SG components were integrated with HQ MAC/SG.) The life and death nature of most newborn referrals to Level

41 CFR 102-118.375 - Who has the authority to grant a waiver of the prepayment audit requirement?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... grant a waiver of the prepayment audit requirement? 102-118.375 Section 102-118.375 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION TRANSPORTATION 118-TRANSPORTATION PAYMENT AND AUDIT Prepayment Audits of Transportation Services...

41 CFR 102-33.375 - What is a FSCAP Criticality Code?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... 41 Public Contracts and Property Management 3 2010-07-01 2010-07-01 false What is a FSCAP Criticality Code? 102-33.375 Section 102-33.375 Public Contracts and Property Management Federal Property Management Regulations System (Continued) FEDERAL MANAGEMENT REGULATION PERSONAL PROPERTY 33-MANAGEMENT OF...

14 CFR 375.35 - Free transportation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2013-01-01 2013-01-01 false Free transportation. 375.35 Section 375.35 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION PROCEEDINGS) SPECIAL... transportation. (a) Foreign civil aircraft may be navigated in the United States by a foreign air carrier for the...

14 CFR 375.35 - Free transportation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2011-01-01 2011-01-01 false Free transportation. 375.35 Section 375.35 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION PROCEEDINGS) SPECIAL... transportation. (a) Foreign civil aircraft may be navigated in the United States by a foreign air carrier for the...

14 CFR 375.35 - Free transportation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2014-01-01 2014-01-01 false Free transportation. 375.35 Section 375.35 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION PROCEEDINGS) SPECIAL... transportation. (a) Foreign civil aircraft may be navigated in the United States by a foreign air carrier for the...

14 CFR 375.35 - Free transportation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 4 2012-01-01 2012-01-01 false Free transportation. 375.35 Section 375.35 Aeronautics and Space OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (AVIATION PROCEEDINGS) SPECIAL... transportation. (a) Foreign civil aircraft may be navigated in the United States by a foreign air carrier for the...

18 CFR 375.315 - Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-04-01

... Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation. 375.315 Section 375.315 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.315 Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation... by the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation; and (2) Applications for extensions of time to file...

18 CFR 375.315 - Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-04-01

... Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation. 375.315 Section 375.315 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.315 Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation... by the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation; and (2) Applications for extensions of time to file...

18 CFR 375.315 - Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-04-01

... Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation. 375.315 Section 375.315 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.315 Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation... by the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation; and (2) Applications for extensions of time to file...

18 CFR 375.315 - Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-04-01

... Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation. 375.315 Section 375.315 Conservation of Power and... COMMISSION Delegations § 375.315 Delegations to the Director of the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation... by the Office of Energy Policy and Innovation; and (2) Applications for extensions of time to file...

A c-fms tyrosine kinase inhibitor, Ki20227, suppresses osteoclast differentiation and osteolytic bone destruction in a bone metastasis model.

PubMed

Ohno, Hiroaki; Kubo, Kazuo; Murooka, Hideko; Kobayashi, Yoshiko; Nishitoba, Tsuyoshi; Shibuya, Masabumi; Yoneda, Toshiyuki; Isoe, Toshiyuki

2006-11-01

In bone metastatic lesions, osteoclasts play a key role in the development of osteolysis. Previous studies have shown that macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) is important for the differentiation of osteoclasts. In this study, we investigated whether an inhibitor of M-CSF receptor (c-Fms) suppresses osteoclast-dependent osteolysis in bone metastatic lesions. We developed small molecule inhibitors against ligand-dependent phosphorylation of c-Fms and examined the effects of these compounds on osteolytic bone destruction in a bone metastasis model. We discovered a novel quinoline-urea derivative, Ki20227 (N-{4-[(6,7-dimethoxy-4-quinolyl)oxy]-2-methoxyphenyl}-N'-[1-(1,3-thiazole-2-yl)ethyl]urea), which is a c-Fms tyrosine kinase inhibitor. The IC(50)s of Ki20227 to inhibit c-Fms, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-2 (KDR), stem cell factor receptor (c-Kit), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta were found to be 2, 12, 451, and 217 nmol/L, respectively. Ki20227 did not inhibit other kinases tested, such as fms-like tyrosine kinase-3, epidermal growth factor receptor, or c-Src (c-src proto-oncogene product). Ki20227 was also found to inhibit the M-CSF-dependent growth of M-NFS-60 cells but not the M-CSF-independent growth of A375 human melanoma cells in vitro. Furthermore, in an osteoclast-like cell formation assay using mouse bone marrow cells, Ki20227 inhibited the development of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive osteoclast-like cells in a dose-dependent manner. In in vivo studies, oral administration of Ki20227 suppressed osteoclast-like cell accumulation and bone resorption induced by metastatic tumor cells in nude rats following intracardiac injection of A375 cells. Moreover, Ki20227 decreased the number of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase-positive osteoclast-like cells on bone surfaces in ovariectomized (ovx) rats. These findings suggest that Ki20227 inhibits osteolytic bone destruction through the suppression of M-CSF-induced osteoclast accumulation in vivo. Therefore, Ki20227 may be a useful therapeutic agent for osteolytic disease associated with bone metastasis and other bone diseases.

49 CFR 375.401 - Must I estimate charges?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... to, cash, a certified check, a money order, a cashier s check, a specific charge card such as American ExpressTM, a specific credit card such as VisaTM, or your credit as allowed by § 375.807. (d) For... GOODS IN INTERSTATE COMMERCE; CONSUMER PROTECTION REGULATIONS Estimating Charges § 375.401 Must I...

Thyroid cell lines in research on goitrogenesis.

PubMed

Gerber, H; Peter, H J; Asmis, L; Studer, H

1991-12-01

Thyroid cell lines have contributed a lot to the understanding of goitrogenesis. The cell lines mostly used in thyroid research are briefly discussed, namely the rat thyroid cell lines FRTL and FRTL-5, the porcine thyroid cell lines PORTHOS and ARTHOS, The sheep thyroid cell lines OVNIS 5H and 6H, the cat thyroid cell lines PETCAT 1 to 4 and ROMCAT, and the human thyroid cell lines FTC-133 and HTh 74. Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and COS-7 cells, stably transfected with TSH receptor cDNA and expressing a functional TSH receptor, are discussed as examples for non-thyroidal cells, transfected with thyroid genes.

Ontological representation, integration, and analysis of LINCS cell line cells and their cellular responses.

PubMed

Ong, Edison; Xie, Jiangan; Ni, Zhaohui; Liu, Qingping; Sarntivijai, Sirarat; Lin, Yu; Cooper, Daniel; Terryn, Raymond; Stathias, Vasileios; Chung, Caty; Schürer, Stephan; He, Yongqun

2017-12-21

Aiming to understand cellular responses to different perturbations, the NIH Common Fund Library of Integrated Network-based Cellular Signatures (LINCS) program involves many institutes and laboratories working on over a thousand cell lines. The community-based Cell Line Ontology (CLO) is selected as the default ontology for LINCS cell line representation and integration. CLO has consistently represented all 1097 LINCS cell lines and included information extracted from the LINCS Data Portal and ChEMBL. Using MCF 10A cell line cells as an example, we demonstrated how to ontologically model LINCS cellular signatures such as their non-tumorigenic epithelial cell type, three-dimensional growth, latrunculin-A-induced actin depolymerization and apoptosis, and cell line transfection. A CLO subset view of LINCS cell lines, named LINCS-CLOview, was generated to support systematic LINCS cell line analysis and queries. In summary, LINCS cell lines are currently associated with 43 cell types, 131 tissues and organs, and 121 cancer types. The LINCS-CLO view information can be queried using SPARQL scripts. CLO was used to support ontological representation, integration, and analysis of over a thousand LINCS cell line cells and their cellular responses.

49 CFR 375.301 - What service options may I provide?

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 49 Transportation 5 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false What service options may I provide? 375.301... TRANSPORTATION OF HOUSEHOLD GOODS IN INTERSTATE COMMERCE; CONSUMER PROTECTION REGULATIONS Service Options Provided § 375.301 What service options may I provide? (a) You may design your household goods service to...

NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Nitromethane (CAS No. 75-52-5) in F344/N Rats and B6C3F1 Mice (Inhalation Studies).

PubMed

1997-02-01

Nitromethane is used as a rocket and engine fuel; as a synthesis intermediate for agricultural fumigants, biocides, and other products; as a solvent; and as an explosive in mining, oil-well drilling, and seismic exploration. It has been detected in air, in surface and drinking water, and in cigarette smoke. Nitromethane was studied because of the potential for widespread human exposure and because it is structurally related to the carcinogens 2-nitropropane and tetranitromethane. Male and female F344/N rats and B6C3F1 mice received nitromethane (purity 98% or greater) by inhalation for 16 days, 13 weeks, or 2 years. Genetic toxicology studies were conducted in Salmonella typhimurium, cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells, and peripheral blood erythrocytes of mice. 16-DAY STUDY IN RATS: Groups of five male and five female rats were exposed to 0, 94, 188, 375, 750, or 1,500 ppm nitromethane by inhalation, 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 16 days. All rats survived until the end of the study. The mean body weight gain of male rats in the 1,500 ppm group was slightly but significantly less than that of the controls; the final mean body weights and mean body weight gains of exposed females were similar to those of the controls. Clinical findings in all male and female rats in the 1,500 ppm groups included increased preening, rapid breathing, hyperactivity early in the study, and hypoactivity and loss of coordination in the hindlimbs near the end of the study. The relative liver weights of all exposed groups of male rats and the absolute and relative liver weights of females exposed to 375 ppm or greater were significantly greater than those of the controls. Minimal to mild degeneration of the olfactory epithelium was observed in the nose of males and females exposed to 375 ppm or greater. Sciatic nerve degeneration was present in all male and female rats exposed to 375 ppm or greater; rats exposed to 750 or 1,500 ppm also had reduced myelin around sciatic axons. 16-DAY STUDY IN MICE: Groups of five male and five female mice were exposed to 0, 94, 188, 375, 750, or 1,500 ppm nitromethane by inhalation, 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 16 days. All mice survived to the end of the study. The final mean body weights and weight gains of exposed males and females were similar to those of the controls. Clinical findings included hypoactivity and tachypnea in male and female mice in the 1,500 ppm groups. Absolute and relative liver weights of male mice in the 750 and 1,500 ppm groups and female mice in all exposed groups and the relative liver weight of males in the 375 ppm group were significantly greater than those of the controls. Degeneration of the olfactory epithelium of the nose was observed microscopically in all males and females exposed to 375 ppm or greater; this lesion was of minimal severity in males and minimal to mild severity in females. 13-WEEK STUDY IN RATS: Groups of 10 male and 10 female rats were exposed to 0, 94, 188, 375, 750, or 1,500 ppm nitromethane by inhalation, 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 13 weeks. All rats survived to the end of the study. The final mean body weight and weight gain of male rats in the 1,500 ppm group were significantly less than those of the controls. Clinical findings included hindlimb paralysis in rats in the 750 and 1,500 ppm groups. Inhalation exposure of rats to nitromethane resulted in an exposure concentration-dependent, microcytic, responsive anemia; anemia was most pronounced in males and females exposed to 375 ppm or greater. The presence of schistocytes, Heinz bodies, and spherocytes and increased mean cell hemoglobin concentration and methemoglobin concentration were evidence that a hemolytic process was occurring; this hemolytic process could have accounted, in part, for the anemia. Thrombocytosis accompanied the anemia and would be consistent with a reactive bone marrow or could have been due to the erroneous inclusion of small erythrocyte fragments as part of the platelet count. On day 23, transient decreases in serum triiodothyronine, thyroxine, and fr and free thyroxine were observed in male rats exposed to 375 ppm or greater and female rats exposed to 750 or 1,500 ppm. There was little or no pituitary response to the thyroid hormone decreases, as evidenced by the lack of significantly increased concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone in exposed rats. No biologically significant differences in organ weights were observed. The forelimb and hindlimb grip strengths of males in the 1,500 ppm group were significantly less than those of the controls. The hindlimb grip strengths of females in the 750 and 1,500 ppm groups were also significantly less than the control value. Minimal to mild hyperplasia of the bone marrow was observed microscopically in male rats in the 750 and 1,500 ppm groups and in females exposed to 188 ppm or greater. Nasal lesions in exposed males and females included olfactory epithelial degeneration in males and females exposed to 375 ppm or greater and in one female exposed to 188 ppm and respiratory epithelial hyaline droplets and goblet cell hyperplasia in males and females in the 750 and 1,500 ppm groups; the severity of nasal lesions in males and females was minimal to mild. Males and females exposed to 375 ppm or greater had minimal to mild degeneration of the sciatic nerve and the lumbar spinal cord. 13-WEEK STUDY IN MICE: Groups of 10 male and 10 female mice were exposed to 0, 94, 188, 375, 750, or 1,500 ppm nitromethane by inhalation, 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 13 weeks. All mice survived to the end of the study. The final mean body weights and weight gains of exposed mice were generally similar to those of the controls. There were no treatment-related clinical findings. The absolute right kidney weights of all groups of exposed male mice except the 1,500 ppm group and of females exposed to 188 ppm or greater and the relative right kidney weights of all groups of exposed males and of females in the 750 and 1,500 ppm groups were significantly greater than those of the controls. The absolute liver weight of male mice in the 750 ppm group and the relative liver weights of males exposed to 375 ppm or greater were significantly greater than those of the controls. Olfactory epithelial degeneration and respiratory epithelial hyaline droplets were observed microscopically in all male and female mice exposed to 375 ppm or greater. Degeneration also occurred in females in the 188 ppm group, and hyaline droplets occurred in females in the 94 and 188 ppm groups. The average severity of the nasal lesions ranged from minimal to mild in males. In females, the average severity of olfactory epithelial degeneration ranged from minimal to mild and the severity of respiratory epithelial hyaline droplets ranged from minimal to moderate. All males and nine females in the 1,500 ppm groups also had minimal extramedullary hematopoiesis of the spleen. 2-YEAR STUDY IN RATS: Groups of 50 male and 50 female rats were exposed to 0, 94, 188, or 375 ppm nitromethane by inhalation, 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 103 weeks. Survival,Body Weights, and Clinical Findings: There were no significant differences in survival rates between exposed and control male or female rats. The mean body weight of females in the 375 ppm group was slightly greater than that of the control group; the mean body weights of exposed males were generally similar to the mean body weight of the controls throughout the study. Clinical findings were consistent with incidences of mammary gland neoplasms in females exposed to 188 or 375 ppm; no hindlimb paralysis, as occurred in rats in the 13-week study, was observed in male or female rats in the 2-year study. Pathology Findings: The incidences of mammary gland fibroadenoma and fibroadenoma, adenoma, or carcinoma (combined) in female rats in the 188 and 375 ppm groups were significantly greater than those in the controls. Additionally, the incidences of mammary gland carcinoma in the 375 ppm group were significantly greater than those in the controls. 2-YEAR STUDY IN MICE: Groups of 50 male and 50 female mice were exposed to 0, 188, 375, or 750 ppm nitromethane by inhalation, 6 hours per day, 5 days per week, for 103 weeks. Survival,Body Weights, and ClinicalFindings The survival rate of females in the 750 ppm group was marginally greater than that of the controls. The mean body weights of exposed females were generally slightly greater than the mean body weights of the controls during the study but were generally similar to the mean body weight of the controls at the end of the study. The mean body weights of exposed males were similar to those of the controls throughout the study. Clinical findings included swelling around the eyes and exophthalmos in exposed males and females; these findings were coincident with harderian gland neoplasms. Pathology Findings: The incidences of harderian gland adenoma and adenoma or carcinoma (combined) in exposed mice increased with increasing exposure concentration and were significantly greater in males and females in the 375 and 750 ppm groups than those in the controls. The incidences of harderian gland carcinoma in males and females in the 375 and 750 ppm groups were also slightly greater than those in the controls. Female mice in the 188 and 750 ppm groups had significantly greater incidences of hepatocellular adenoma and hepatocellular adenoma or carcinoma (combined) than the controls. The incidences of liver eosinophilic focus increased with increasing exposure concentration, and the incidences in the 375 and 750 ppm groups were significantly greater than the control incidence. The incidences of alveolar/bronchiolar carcinoma in male mice in the 750 ppm group and female mice in the 375 ppm group were significantly greater than those in the controls. Females in the 750 ppm group also had a significantly greater incidence of alveolar/bronchiolar adenoma or carcinoma (combined) and a slightly greater incidence of alveolar/bronchiolar adenoma than the controls. Females in the 375 ppm group had a significantly greater incidence of cellular infiltration of histiocytes in the lung than the controls. The incidences of degeneration and metaplasia of the olfactory epithelium and hyaline degeneration of the respiratory epithelium were significantly greater in exposed male and female mice than those in the controls. Additionally, males in the 375 and 750 ppm groups had significantly greater incidences of inflammation of the nasolacrimal duct than did the controls. GENETIC TOXICOLOGY: Nitromethane was not mutagenic in any tests performed by the NTP. It did not induce mutations in Salmonella typhimurium, with or without S9 metabolic activation, and no induction of sister chromatid exchanges or chromosomal aberrations in cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells exposed to nitromethane was noted with or without S9. No increase in the frequency of micronucleated erythrocytes was observed in peripheral blood samples of male and female mice at the end of the 13-week inhalation study of nitromethane. CONCLUSIONS: Under the conditions of these 2-year inhalation studies, there was no evidence of carcinogenic activity of nitromethane in male F344/N rats exposed to 94, 188, or 375 ppm. There was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of nitromethane in female F344/N rats based on increased incidences of mammary gland fibroadenomas and carcinomas. There was clear evidence of carcinogenic activity of nitromethane in male B6C3F1 mice based on increased incidences of harderian gland adenomas and carcinomas. There was clear evidence of carcin ogenic activity in female B6C3F1 mice, based on increased incidences of liver neoplasms (primarily adenomas) and harderian gland adenomas and carcinomas. Increased incidences of alveolar/bronchiolar adenomas and carcinomas in male and female mice exposed to nitromethane were also considered to be related to chemical administration. Exposure to nitromethane by inhalation for 2 years resulted in increased incidences of nasal lesions including degeneration and metaplasia of the olfactory epithelium and degeneration of the respiratory epithelium in male and female mice. Synonym: Nitrocarbol

40 CFR 265.375 - Waste analysis.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... 40 Protection of Environment 26 2011-07-01 2011-07-01 false Waste analysis. 265.375 Section 265... FACILITIES Thermal Treatment § 265.375 Waste analysis. In addition to the waste analyses required by § 265.13... of pollutants which might be emitted. At a minimum, the analysis must determine: (a) Heating value of...

Continuous hematopoietic cell lines as model systems for leukemia-lymphoma research.

PubMed

Drexler, H G; Matsuo, A Y; MacLeod, R A

2000-11-01

Along with other improvements, the advent of continuous human leukemia-lymphoma (LL) cell lines as a rich resource of abundant, accessible and manipulable living cells has contributed significantly to a better understanding of the pathophysiology of hematopoietic tumors. The first LL cell lines, Burkitt's lymphoma-derived lines, were established in 1963. Since then, more than 1000 cell lines have been described, although not all of them in full detail. The major advantages of continuous cell lines is the unlimited supply and worldwide availability of identical cell material, and the infinite viable storability in liquid nitrogen. LL cell lines are characterized generally by monoclonal origin and differentiation arrest, sustained proliferation in vitro under preservation of most cellular features, and specific genetic alterations. The most practical classification of LL cell lines assigns them to one of the physiologically occurring cell lineages, based on their immunophenotype, genotype and functional features. Truly malignant cell lines must be discerned from Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-immortalized normal cells, using various distinguishing parameters. However, the picture is not quite so straightforward, as some types of LL cell lines are indeed EBV+, and some EBV+ normal cell lines carry also genetic aberrations and may mimic malignancy-associated features. Apart from EBV and human T-cell leukemia virus in some lines, the majority of wild-type LL cell lines are virus-negative. The efficiency of cell line establishment is rather low and the deliberate establishment of new LL cell lines remains by and large an unpredictable random process. Difficulties in establishing continuous cell lines may be caused by the inappropriate selection of nutrients and growth factors for these cells. Clearly, a generally suitable microenvironment for hematopoietic cells, either malignant or normal, cannot yet be created in vitro. The characterization and publication of new LL cell lines should provide important and informative core data, attesting to their scientific significance. Large percentages of LL cell lines are contaminated with mycoplasma (about 30%) or are cross-contaminated with other cell lines (about 15-20%). Solutions to these problems are sensitive detection, effective elimination and rigorous prevention of mycoplasma infection, and proper, regular authentication of cell lines. The underlying cause, however, appears to be negligent cell culture practice. The willingness of investigators to make their LL cell lines available to others is all too often limited. There is a need in the scientific community for clean and authenticated high-quality LL cell lines to which every scientist has access. These are offered by various institutionalized public cell line banks. It has been argued that LL cell lines are genetically unstable (both cytogenetically and molecular genetically). For instance, cell lines are supposed to acquire numerical and structural chromosomal alterations and various types of mutations (e.g. point mutations) in vitro. We present evidence that while nearly 100% of all LL cell lines indeed carry genetic alterations, these alterations appear to be stable rather than unstable. As an example of the practical utility of LL cell lines, the recent advances in studies of classical and molecular cytogenetics, which in large part were made possible by cell lines, are highlighted. A list of the most useful, robust and publicly available reference cell lines that may be used for a variety of experimental purposes is proposed. Clearly, by opening new avenues for investigation, studies of LL cell lines have provided seminal insights into the biology of hematopoietic neoplasia. Over a period of nearly four decades, these initially rather exotic cell cultures, known only to a few specialists, have become ubiquitous powerful research tools that are available to every investigator.

Evaluating cell lines as tumour models by comparison of genomic profiles

PubMed Central

Domcke, Silvia; Sinha, Rileen; Levine, Douglas A.; Sander, Chris; Schultz, Nikolaus

2013-01-01

Cancer cell lines are frequently used as in vitro tumour models. Recent molecular profiles of hundreds of cell lines from The Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia and thousands of tumour samples from the Cancer Genome Atlas now allow a systematic genomic comparison of cell lines and tumours. Here we analyse a panel of 47 ovarian cancer cell lines and identify those that have the highest genetic similarity to ovarian tumours. Our comparison of copy-number changes, mutations and mRNA expression profiles reveals pronounced differences in molecular profiles between commonly used ovarian cancer cell lines and high-grade serous ovarian cancer tumour samples. We identify several rarely used cell lines that more closely resemble cognate tumour profiles than commonly used cell lines, and we propose these lines as the most suitable models of ovarian cancer. Our results indicate that the gap between cell lines and tumours can be bridged by genomically informed choices of cell line models for all tumour types. PMID:23839242