Comparative histology of mouse, rat, and human pelvic ligaments.

PubMed

Iwanaga, Ritsuko; Orlicky, David J; Arnett, Jameson; Guess, Marsha K; Hurt, K Joseph; Connell, Kathleen A

2016-11-01

The uterosacral (USL) and cardinal ligaments (CL) provide support to the uterus and pelvic organs, and the round ligaments (RL) maintain their position in the pelvis. In women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP), the connective tissue, smooth muscle, vasculature, and innervation of the pelvic support structures are altered. Rodents are commonly used animal models for POP research. However, the pelvic ligaments have not been defined in these animals. In this study, we hypothesized that the gross anatomy and histological composition of pelvic ligaments in rodents and humans are similar. We performed an extensive literature search for anatomical and histological descriptions of the pelvic support ligaments in rodents. We also performed anatomical dissections of the pelvis to define anatomical landmarks in relation to the ligaments. In addition, we identified the histological components of the pelvic ligaments and performed quantitative analysis of the smooth muscle bundles and connective tissue of the USL and RL. The anatomy of the USL, CL, and RL and their anatomical landmarks are similar in mice, rats, and humans. All species contain the same cellular components and have similar histological architecture. However, the cervical portion of the mouse USL and RL contain more smooth muscle and less connective tissue compared with rat and human ligaments. The pelvic support structures of rats and mice are anatomically and histologically similar to those of humans. We propose that both mice and rats are appropriate, cost-effective models for directed studies in POP research.

Small-Scale Fabrication of Biomimetic Structures for Periodontal Regeneration

PubMed Central

Green, David W.; Lee, Jung-Seok; Jung, Han-Sung

2016-01-01

The periodontium is the supporting tissues for the tooth organ and is vulnerable to destruction, arising from overpopulating pathogenic bacteria and spirochaetes. The presence of microbes together with host responses can destroy large parts of the periodontium sometimes leading tooth loss. Permanent tissue replacements are made possible with tissue engineering techniques. However, existing periodontal biomaterials cannot promote proper tissue architectures, necessary tissue volumes within the periodontal pocket and a “water-tight” barrier, to become clinically acceptable. New kinds of small-scale engineered biomaterials, with increasing biological complexity are needed to guide proper biomimetic regeneration of periodontal tissues. So the ability to make compound structures with small modules, filled with tissue components, is a promising design strategy for simulating the anatomical complexity of the periodotium attachment complexes along the tooth root and the abutment with the tooth collar. Anatomical structures such as, intima, adventitia, and special compartments such as the epithelial cell rests of Malassez or a stellate reticulum niche need to be engineered from the start of regeneration to produce proper periodontium replacement. It is our contention that the positioning of tissue components at the origin is also necessary to promote self-organizing cell–cell connections, cell–matrix connections. This leads to accelerated, synchronized and well-formed tissue architectures and anatomies. This strategy is a highly effective preparation for tackling periodontitis, periodontium tissue resorption, and to ultimately prevent tooth loss. Furthermore, such biomimetic tissue replacements will tackle problems associated with dental implant support and perimimplantitis. PMID:26903872

Tracing the evolutionary origin of vertebrate skeletal tissues: insights from cephalochordate amphioxus.

PubMed

Yong, Luok Wen; Yu, Jr-Kai

2016-08-01

Vertebrate mineralized skeletal tissues are widely considered as an evolutionary novelty. Despite the importance of these tissues to the adaptation and radiation of vertebrate animals, the evolutionary origin of vertebrate skeletal tissues remains largely unclear. Cephalochordates (Amphioxus) occupy a key phylogenetic position and can serve as a valuable model for studying the evolution of vertebrate skeletal tissues. Here we summarize recent advances in amphioxus developmental biology and comparative genomics that can help to elucidate the evolutionary origins of the vertebrate skeletal tissues and their underlying developmental gene regulatory networks (GRN). By making comparisons to the developmental studies in vertebrate models and recent discoveries in paleontology and genomics, it becomes evident that the collagen matrix-based connective tissues secreted by the somite-derived cells in amphioxus likely represent the rudimentary skeletal tissues in chordates. We propose that upon the foundation of this collagenous precursor, novel tissue mineralization genes that arose from gene duplications were incorporated into an ancestral mesodermal GRN that makes connective and supporting tissues, leading to the emergence of highly-mineralized skeletal tissues in early vertebrates. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

What's new in the functional anatomy of pelvic organ prolapse?

PubMed

DeLancey, John O L

2016-10-01

Provide an evidence-based review of pelvic floor functional anatomy related to pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic organ support depends on interactions between the levator ani muscle and pelvic connective tissues. Muscle failure exposes the vaginal wall to a pressure differential producing abnormal tension on the attachments of the pelvic organs to the pelvic sidewall. Birth-induced injury to the pubococcygeal portion of the levator ani muscle is seen in 55% of women with prolapse and 16% of women with normal support. Failure of the lateral connective tissue attachments between the uterus and vagina to the pelvic wall (cardinal, uterosacral, and paravaginal) are strongly related with prolapse (effect sizes ∼2.5) and are also highly correlated with one another (r ∼ 0.85). Small differences exist with prolapse in factors involving the vaginal wall length and width (effect sizes ∼1). The primary difference in ligament properties between women with and without prolapse is found in ligament length. Only minor differences in ligament stiffness are seen. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs because of injury to the levator ani muscles and failure of the lateral connections between the pelvic organs to the pelvic sidewall. Abnormalities of the vaginal wall fascial tissues may play a minor role.

Characterization of somatic embryo attached structures in Feijoa sellowiana Berg. (Myrtaceae).

PubMed

Correia, Sandra M; Canhoto, Jorge M

2010-06-01

The presence of an attached organ to somatic embryos of angiosperms connecting the embryo to the supporting tissue has been a subject of controversy. This study shows that 67% of the morphologically normal somatic embryos of Feijoa sellowiana possess this type of organ and that its formation was not affected by culture media composition. Histological and ultrastructural analysis indicated that the attached structures of somatic embryos displayed a great morphological diversity ranging from a few cells to massive and columnar structures. This contrast with the simple suspensors observed in zygotic embryos which were only formed by five cells. As well as the suspensor of zygotic embryos, somatic embryo attached structures undergo a process of degeneration in later stages of embryo development. Other characteristic shared by zygotic suspensors and somatic embryo attached structures was the presence of thick cell walls surrounding the cells. Elongated thin filaments were often associated with the structures attached to somatic embryos, whereas in other cases, tubular cells containing starch grains connected the embryo to the supporting tissue. These characteristics associated with the presence of plasmodesmata in the cells of the attached structures seem to indicate a role on embryo nutrition. However, cell proliferation in the attached structures resulting into new somatic embryos may also suggest a more complex relationship between the embryo and the structures connecting it to the supporting tissue.

Marshall-Smith syndrome: natural history and evidence of an osteochondrodysplasia with connective tissue abnormalities.

PubMed

Adam, Margaret P; Hennekam, Raoul C M; Keppen, Laura Davis; Bull, Marilyn J; Clericuzio, Carol L; Burke, Leah W; Ormond, Kelly E; Hoyme, Eugene H

2005-08-30

The Marshall-Smith syndrome (MSS) is a distinct malformation syndrome characterized by accelerated skeletal maturation, relative failure to thrive, respiratory difficulties, mental retardation, and unusual facies, including prominent forehead, shallow orbits, blue sclerae, depressed nasal bridge, and micrognathia. At least 33 cases have been reported in the literature, mostly as single case reports or small series. The purpose of the present study is to report on the clinical findings and natural history of MSS in five children and to review the features of three others previously reported, with particular attention to the skeletal and connective tissue findings. Our study demonstrates an increased rate of nontraumatic fractures and other bony and connective tissue abnormalities that support the hypothesis that MSS should be considered an osteochondrodysplasia. In addition, long-term survival beyond infancy is possible if respiratory problems are expectantly and aggressively managed. (c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Rectocele

MedlinePlus

... heavy lifting Being overweight or obese Pregnancy and childbirth The muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that support ... naturally more likely to develop posterior vaginal prolapse. Childbirth. If you have vaginally delivered multiple children, you ...

Does rat granulation tissue maturation involve gap junction communications?

PubMed

Au, Katherine; Ehrlich, H Paul

2007-07-01

Wound healing, a coordinated process, proceeds by sequential changes in cell differentiation and terminates with the deposition of a new connective tissue matrix, a scar. Initially, there is the migratory fibroblast, followed by the proliferative fibroblast, then the synthetic fibroblast, which transforms into the myofibroblast, and finally the apoptotic fibroblast. Gap junction intercellular communications are proposed to coordinate the stringent control of fibroblast phenotypic changes. Does added oleamide, a natural fatty acid that blocks gap junction intercellular communications, alter the phenotypic progression of wound fibroblasts? Pairs of polyvinyl alcohol sponges attached to Alzet pumps, which constantly pumped either oleamide or vehicle solvent, were implanted subcutaneously into three rats. On day 8, implants were harvested and evaluated histologically and biochemically. The capsule of oleamide-treated sponge contained closely packed fibroblasts with little connective tissue between them. The birefringence intensity of that connective tissue was reduced, indicating a reduced density of collagen fiber bundles. Myofibroblasts, identified immunohistologically by alpha-smooth muscle actin-stained stress fibers, were reduced in oleamide-treated implants. Western blot analysis showing less alpha-smooth muscle actin confirmed the reduced density of myofibroblasts. It appears that oleamide retards the progression of wound repair, where less connective tissue is deposited, the collagen is less organized, and the appearance of myofibroblasts is impaired. These findings support the hypothesis that gap junction intercellular communications between wound fibroblasts in granulation tissue play a role in the progression of repair and the maturation of granulation tissue into scar.

Acellular dermal matrix in soft tissue reconstruction prior to bone grafting. A case report.

PubMed

Ruiz-Magaz, Vanessa; Hernández-Alfaro, Federico; Díaz-Carandell, Artur; Biosca-Gómez-de-Tejada, María-José

2010-01-01

When hard tissue augmentation is scheduled as a part of an oral rehabilitation, prior to the treatment, it is important to assess if the quality of the underlying gingiva at the recipient site can support the bone grafting procedure. The most frequent complication during autologous onlay grafts are wound dehiscences in the recipient site, so the integrity of soft tissues is a basic aspect of successful reconstructive and plastic surgical procedure. Connective tissue grafts can improve the quality and quantity of soft tissue in oral sites where a hard tissue reconstruction is going to take place. However, particularly when large grafts are harvested, the autogenous donor site can present significant postoperative morbidity, such as necrosis of the palate fibromucosa and bone exposition, pain and bleeding. Another important limitation with the use of autogenous grafts is the limited supply of donor connective tissue. If a large site needs to be grafted, more than one surgical procedure may be required. An Acellular Dermal Matrix (ADM) graft has become increasingly popular as a substitute for donor connective tissue, eliminating the disadvantages described for the autogenous donor graft. The amount of tissue harvested is unlimited, so it gives an option for treating patients that have inadequate harvestable tissue or that present a large defect to be treated. The outcome of using ADM as a matrix for soft tissue reconstruction 12 weeks before bone grafting can reduce the risk of exposure and failure of the bone graft.

Mechanics of biological networks: from the cell cytoskeleton to connective tissue.

PubMed

Pritchard, Robyn H; Huang, Yan Yan Shery; Terentjev, Eugene M

2014-03-28

From the cell cytoskeleton to connective tissues, fibrous networks are ubiquitous in metazoan life as the key promoters of mechanical strength, support and integrity. In recent decades, the application of physics to biological systems has made substantial strides in elucidating the striking mechanical phenomena observed in such networks, explaining strain stiffening, power law rheology and cytoskeletal fluidisation - all key to the biological function of individual cells and tissues. In this review we focus on the current progress in the field, with a primer into the basic physics of individual filaments and the networks they form. This is followed by a discussion of biological networks in the context of a broad spread of recent in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Genetics Home Reference: Kuskokwim syndrome

MedlinePlus

... collagens, which provide structure and strength to connective tissues that support the body's bones, joints, and ... U, Cundy T, Pyott SM, Christiansen HE, Hegde MR, Bank RA, Pals G, Ankala A, Conneely K, Seaver ...

Genetics Home Reference: acromicric dysplasia

MedlinePlus

... part of the fibers that provide strength and flexibility to connective tissues, which support the bones, skin, ... Little People of America Little People UK National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) The MAGIC Foundation Scientific ...

Meninges of the brain (image)

MedlinePlus

... covered by connective tissue layers collectively called the meninges. Consisting of the pia mater (closest to the ... the dura mater (farthest from the CNS), the meninges also support blood vessels and contain cerebrospinal fluid. ...

Meninges of the spine (image)

MedlinePlus

... by 3 connective tissue layers collectively called the meninges. Consisting of the pia mater (closest to the ... the dura mater (farthest from the CNS), the meninges also support blood vessels and contain cerebrospinal fluid. ...

An integral theory of female urinary incontinence. Experimental and clinical considerations.

PubMed

Petros, P E; Ulmsten, U I

1990-01-01

In this Theory paper, the complex interplay of the specific structures involved in female urinary continence are analyzed. In addition the effects of age, hormones, and iatrogenically induced scar tissue on these structures, are discussed specifically with regard to understanding the proper basis for treatment of urinary incontinence. According to the Theory stress and urge symptoms may both derive, for different reasons from the same anatomical defect, a lax vagina. This laxity may be caused by defects within the vaginal wall itself, or its supporting structures i.e. ligaments, muscles, and their connective tissue insertions. The vagina has a dual function. It mediates (transmits) the various muscle movements involved in bladder neck opening and closure through three separate closure mechanisms. It also has a structural function, and prevents urgency by supporting the hypothesized stretch receptors at the proximal urethra and bladder neck. Altered collagen/elastin in the vaginal connective tissue and/or its ligamentous supports may cause laxity. This dissipates the muscle contraction, causing stress incontinence, and/or activation of an inappropriate micturition reflex, ("bladder instability") by stimulation of bladder base stretch receptors. The latter is manifested by symptoms of frequency, urgency, nocturia with or without urine loss.

Preliminary embryological study of the radiological concept of retroperitoneal interfascial planes: what are the interfascial planes?

PubMed

Ishikawa, Kazuo; Nakao, Shota; Murakami, Gen; Rodríguez-Vázquez, Jose Francisco; Matsuoka, Tetsuya; Nakamuro, Makoto; Shimazu, Takeshi

2014-12-01

Recently, the radiological concept of retroperitoneal interfascial planes has been widely accepted to explain the extension of retroperitoneal pathologies. This study aimed to explore embryologically based corroborative evidence, which remains to be elucidated, for this concept. Using serial or semi-serial transverse sections from 29 human fetuses at the 5th-25th week of fetal age, we microscopically observed the development of the retroperitoneal fasciae and other structures in the retroperitoneal connective tissue. A hypothesis for the formation of the interfascial planes was generated from the developmental study and analysis of retroperitoneal fasciae in computed tomography images from 224 patients. Whereas the loose connective tissue was uniformly distributed in the retroperitoneum by the 9th week, the primitive renal and transversalis fasciae appeared at the 10th-12th week, as previous research has noted. By the 23rd week, the renal fascia, transversalis fascia, and primitive adipose tissue of the flank pad emerged. In addition, the primitive lateroconal fascia, which runs parallel to and close to the posterior renal fascia, emerged between the renal fascia and the adipose tissue of the flank pad. Conversely, pre-existing loose connective tissue was sandwiched between the opposing fasciae and was compressed and narrowed by the developing organs and fatty tissues. Through this developmental study, we provided the hypothesis that the compressed loose connective tissue and both opposed fasciae compose the interfascial planes. Analysis of the thickened retroperitoneal fasciae in computed tomography images supported this hypothesis. Further developmental or histological studies are required to verify our hypothesis.

What’s new in the functional anatomy of pelvic organ prolapse?

PubMed Central

DeLancey, John O. L.

2017-01-01

Purpose of Review Provide an evidence-based review of pelvic floor functional anatomy related to pelvic organ prolapse. Recent Findings Pelvic organ support depends on interactions between the levator ani muscle and pelvic connective tissues. Muscle failure exposes the vaginal wall a pressure differential producing abnormal tension on the attachments of the pelvic organs to the pelvic side-wall. Birth-induced injury to the pubococcygeal portion of the levator ani muscle is seen in 55% of women with prolapse and 16% of women with normal support. Failure of the connective tissue attachments between the uterus and vagina to the pelvic wall (cardinal, uterosacral, paravaginal) are strongly related with prolapse (effect sizes ~2.5) and are also highly correlated with one another (r ~0.85). Small differences exist with prolapse in factors involving the vaginal wall length and width (effect sizes ~1). The primary difference in ligament properties between women with and without prolapse is found in ligament length. Only minor differences in ligament stiffness are seen. Summary Pelvic organ prolapse occurs due to injury to the levator ani muscles and failure of the connections between the pelvic organs to the pelvic sidewall. Abnormalities of the vaginal wall fascial tissues may play a minor role. PMID:27517338

Hematopoietic stem cell origin of connective tissues.

PubMed

Ogawa, Makio; Larue, Amanda C; Watson, Patricia M; Watson, Dennis K

2010-07-01

Connective tissue consists of "connective tissue proper," which is further divided into loose and dense (fibrous) connective tissues and "specialized connective tissues." Specialized connective tissues consist of blood, adipose tissue, cartilage, and bone. In both loose and dense connective tissues, the principal cellular element is fibroblasts. It has been generally believed that all cellular elements of connective tissue, including fibroblasts, adipocytes, chondrocytes, and bone cells, are generated solely by mesenchymal stem cells. Recently, a number of studies, including those from our laboratory based on transplantation of single hematopoietic stem cells, strongly suggested a hematopoietic stem cell origin of these adult mesenchymal tissues. This review summarizes the experimental evidence for this new paradigm and discusses its translational implications. Copyright 2010 ISEH - Society for Hematology and Stem Cells. All rights reserved.

Taking Aim at Important Targets in Sarcoma | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common childhood soft tissue sarcoma, a cancer of the body’s connective or supportive tissues such as muscle, cartilage, or fat. The two major classifications of RMS include the embryonal subtype, which accounts for approximately three-quarters of children diagnosed with RMS, and the more aggressive alveolar (ARMS) subtype, which has a

Differential diagnosis and diagnostic flow chart of joint hypermobility syndrome/ehlers-danlos syndrome hypermobility type compared to other heritable connective tissue disorders.

PubMed

Colombi, Marina; Dordoni, Chiara; Chiarelli, Nicola; Ritelli, Marco

2015-03-01

Joint hypermobility syndrome/Ehlers-Danlos syndrome hypermobility type (JHS/EDS-HT) is an evolving and protean disorder mostly recognized by generalized joint hypermobility and without a defined molecular basis. JHS/EDS-HT also presents with other connective tissue features affecting a variety of structures and organs, such as skin, eye, bone, and internal organs. However, most of these signs are present in variable combinations and severity in many other heritable connective tissue disorders. Accordingly, JHS/EDS-HT is an "exclusion" diagnosis which needs the absence of any consistent feature indicative of other partially overlapping connective tissue disorders. While both Villefranche and Brighton criteria include such an exclusion as a mandatory item, a systematic approach for reaching a stringent clinical diagnosis of JHS/EDS-HT is still lacking. The absence of a consensus on the diagnostic approach to JHS/EDS-HT concerning its clinical boundaries with similar conditions contribute to limit our actual understanding of the pathologic and molecular bases of this disorder. In this review, we revise the differential diagnosis of JHS/EDS-HT with those heritable connective tissue disorders which show a significant overlap with the former and mostly include EDS classic, vascular and kyphoscoliotic types, osteogenesis imperfecta, Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, arterial tortuosity syndrome, and lateral meningocele syndrome. A diagnostic flow chart is also offered with the attempt to support the less experienced clinician in stringently recognizing JHS/EDS-HT and stimulate the debate in the scientific community for both management and research purposes. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Genetics Home Reference: congenital stromal corneal dystrophy

MedlinePlus

... decorin, which is involved in the organization of collagens. Collagens are proteins that strengthen and support connective tissues ... ligaments. In the cornea, well-organized bundles of collagen make the cornea transparent. Decorin ensures that collagen ...

Effects of protein-coated nanofibers on conformation of gingival fibroblast spheroids: potential utility for connective tissue regeneration.

PubMed

Kaufman, Gili; Whitescarver, Ryan A; Nunes, Laiz; Palmer, Xavier-Lewis; Skrtic, Drago; Tutak, Wojtek

2018-01-24

Deep wounds in the gingiva caused by trauma or surgery require a rapid and robust healing of connective tissues. We propose utilizing gas-brushed nanofibers coated with collagen and fibrin for that purpose. Our hypotheses are that protein-coated nanofibers will: (i) attract and mobilize cells in various spatial orientations, and (ii) regulate the expression levels of specific extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated proteins, determining the initial conformational nature of dense and soft connective tissues. Gingival fibroblast monolayers and 3D spheroids were cultured on ECM substrate and covered with gas-blown poly-(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanofibers (uncoated/coated with collagen and fibrin). Cell attraction and rearrangement was followed by F-actin staining and confocal microscopy. Thicknesses of the cell layers, developed within the nanofibers, were quantified by ImageJ software. The expression of collagen1α1 chain (Col1α1), fibronectin, and metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) encoding genes was determined by quantitative reverse transcription analysis. Collagen- and fibrin- coated nanofibers induced cell migration toward fibers and supported cellular growth within the scaffolds. Both proteins affected the spatial rearrangement of fibroblasts by favoring packed cell clusters or intermittent cell spreading. These cell arrangements resembled the structural characteristic of dense and soft connective tissues, respectively. Within three days of incubation, fibroblast spheroids interacted with the fibers, and grew robustly by increasing their thickness compared to monolayers. While the ECM key components, such as fibronectin and MMP2 encoding genes, were expressed in both protein groups, Col1α1 was predominantly expressed in bundled fibroblasts grown on collagen fibers. This enhanced expression of collagen1 is typical for dense connective tissue. Based on results of this study, our gas-blown, collagen- and fibrin-coated PLGA nanofibers are viable candidates for engineering soft and dense connective tissues with the required structural characteristics and functions needed for wound healing applications. Rapid regeneration of these layers should enhance healing of open wounds in a harsh oral environment.

Phenytoin sensitivity of fibroblasts as the basis for susceptibility to gingival enlargement.

PubMed Central

Hassell, T. M.; Gilbert, G. H.

1983-01-01

A side effect of long-term administration of the anti-epileptic drug phenytoin is overgrowth of the connective tissues surrounding the teeth. In this in vitro study of protein and collagen synthesis by diploid fibroblasts from 17 nonepileptic young persons with healthy gingivae, only seven strains of cells responded to phenytoin in culture medium. Because not all phenytoin-treated individuals develop gingival overgrowth, we suggest that susceptibility is predicated upon the presence of a (genetically determined) phenytoin-sensitive subpopulation of gingival fibroblasts. The concept of the participation of sensitive cell subpopulations in other connective tissue disorders is supported by these findings. Images Figure 1 PMID:6881288

Cytoskeletal remodeling of connective tissue fibroblasts in response to static stretch is dependent on matrix material properties

PubMed Central

Abbott, Rosalyn D; Koptiuch, Cathryn; Iatridis, James C; Howe, Alan K; Badger, Gary J; Langevin, Helene M

2012-01-01

In areolar “loose” connective tissue, fibroblasts remodel their cytoskeleton within minutes in response to static stretch resulting in increased cell body cross-sectional area that relaxes the tissue to a lower state of resting tension. It remains unknown whether the loosely arranged collagen matrix, characteristic of areolar connective tissue, is required for this cytoskeletal response to occur. The purpose of this study was to evaluate cytoskeletal remodeling of fibroblasts in and dissociated from areolar and dense connective tissue in response to 2 hours of static stretch in both native tissue and collagen gels of varying crosslinking. Rheometric testing indicated that the areolar connective tissue had a lower dynamic modulus and was more viscous than the dense connective tissue. In response to stretch, cells within the more compliant areolar connective tissue adopted a large “sheet-like” morphology that was in contrast to the smaller dendritic morphology in the dense connective tissue. By adjusting the in vitro collagen crosslinking, and the resulting dynamic modulus, it was demonstrated that cells dissociated from dense connective tissue are capable of responding when seeded into a compliant matrix, while cells dissociated from areolar connective tissue can lose their ability to respond when their matrix becomes stiffer. This set of experiments indicated stretch-induced fibroblast expansion was dependent on the distinct matrix material properties of areolar connective tissues as opposed to the cells’ tissue of origin. These results also suggest that disease and pathological processes with increased crosslinks, such as diabetes and fibrosis, could impair fibroblast responsiveness in connective tissues. PMID:22552950

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease

MedlinePlus

Mixed connective tissue disease Overview Mixed connective tissue disease has signs and symptoms of a combination of disorders — primarily lupus, scleroderma and polymyositis. For this reason, mixed connective tissue disease ...

Automatic recognition of fundamental tissues on histology images of the human cardiovascular system.

PubMed

Mazo, Claudia; Trujillo, Maria; Alegre, Enrique; Salazar, Liliana

2016-10-01

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Therefore, techniques for improving diagnosis and treatment in this field have become key areas for research. In particular, approaches for tissue image processing may support education system and medical practice. In this paper, an approach to automatic recognition and classification of fundamental tissues, using morphological information is presented. Taking a 40× or 10× histological image as input, three clusters are created with the k-means algorithm using a structural tensor and the red and the green channels. Loose connective tissue, light regions and cell nuclei are recognised on 40× images. Then, the cell nuclei's features - shape and spatial projection - and light regions are used to recognise and classify epithelial cells and tissue into flat, cubic and cylindrical. In a similar way, light regions, loose connective and muscle tissues are recognised on 10× images. Finally, the tissue's function and composition are used to refine muscle tissue recognition. Experimental validation is then carried out by histologist following expert criteria, along with manually annotated images that are used as a ground-truth. The results revealed that the proposed approach classified the fundamental tissues in a similar way to the conventional method employed by histologists. The proposed automatic recognition approach provides for epithelial tissues a sensitivity of 0.79 for cubic, 0.85 for cylindrical and 0.91 for flat. Furthermore, the experts gave our method an average score of 4.85 out of 5 in the recognition of loose connective tissue and 4.82 out of 5 for muscle tissue recognition. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease

MedlinePlus

... Home Conditions Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease (UCTD) Undifferentiated Connective Tissue Disease (UCTD) Make an Appointment Find a Doctor ... by Barbara Goldstein, MD (February 01, 2016) Undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD) is a systemic autoimmune disease. This ...

Behavior of poly(glycerol sebacate) plugs in chronic tympanic membrane perforations.

PubMed

Sundback, C A; McFadden, J; Hart, A; Kulig, K M; Wieland, A M; Pereira, M J N; Pomerantseva, I; Hartnick, C J; Masiakos, P T

2012-10-01

The tympanic membrane (TM), separating the external and middle ear, consists of fibrous connective tissue sandwiched between epithelial layers. To treat chronic ear infections, tympanostomy drainage tubes are placed in surgically created holes in TMs which can become chronic perforations upon extrusion. Perforations are repaired using a variety of techniques, but are limited by morbidity, unsatisfactory closure rates, or minimal regeneration of the connective tissue. A more effective, minimally-invasive therapy is necessary to enhance the perforation closure rate. Current research utilizing decellularized or alignate materials moderately enhance closure but the native TM architecture is not restored. Poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is a biocompatible elastomer which supports cell migration and enzymatically degrades in contact with vascularized tissue. PGS spool-shaped plugs were manufactured using a novel process. Using minimally invasive procedures, these elastomeric plugs were inserted into chronic chinchilla TM perforations. As previously reported, effective perforation closure occurred as both flange surfaces were covered by confluent cell layers; >90% of perforations were closed at 6-week postimplantation. This unique in vivo environment has little vascularized tissue. Consequently, PGS degradation was minimal over 16-week implantation, hindering regeneration of the TM fibrous connective tissue. PGS degradation must be enhanced to promote complete TM regeneration. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The decrease in silicon concentration of the connective tissues with age in rats is a marker of connective tissue turnover.

PubMed

Jugdaohsingh, Ravin; Watson, Abigail I E; Pedro, Liliana D; Powell, Jonathan J

2015-06-01

Silicon may be important for bone and connective tissue health. Higher concentrations of silicon are suggested to be associated with bone and the connective tissues, compared with the non-connective soft tissues. Moreover, in connective tissues it has been suggested that silicon levels may decrease with age based upon analyses of human aorta. These claims, however, have not been tested under controlled conditions. Here connective and non-connective tissues were collected and analysed for silicon levels from female Sprague-Dawley rats of different ages (namely, 3, 5, 8, 12, 26 and 43 weeks; n=8-10 per age group), all maintained on the same feed source and drinking water, and kept in the same environment from weaning to adulthood. Tissues (696 samples) were digested in nitric acid and analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry for total silicon content. Fasting serum samples were also collected, diluted and analysed for silicon. Higher concentrations of silicon (up to 50-fold) were found associated with bone and the connective tissues compared with the non-connective tissues. Although total silicon content increased with age in all tissues, the highest connective tissue silicon concentrations (up to 9.98 μg/g wet weight) were found in young weanling rats, decreasing thereafter with age (by 2-6 fold). Fasting serum silicon concentrations reflected the pattern of connective tissue silicon concentrations and, both measures, when compared to collagen data from a prior experiment in Sprague-Dawley rats, mirrored type I collagen turnover with age. Our findings confirm the link between silicon and connective tissues and would imply that young growing rats have proportionally higher requirements for dietary silicon than mature adults, for bone and connective tissue development, although this was not formally investigated here. However, estimation of total body silicon content suggested that actual Si requirements may be substantially lower than previously estimated which could explain why absolute silicon deficiency is difficult to achieve but, when it is achieved in young growing animals, it results in stunted growth and abnormal development of bone and other connective tissues. Copyright © 2015. Published by Elsevier Inc.

The decrease in silicon concentration of the connective tissues with age in rats is a marker of connective tissue turnover☆

PubMed Central

Jugdaohsingh, Ravin; Watson, Abigail I.E.; Pedro, Liliana D.; Powell, Jonathan J.

2015-01-01

Silicon may be important for bone and connective tissue health. Higher concentrations of silicon are suggested to be associated with bone and the connective tissues, compared with the non-connective soft tissues. Moreover, in connective tissues it has been suggested that silicon levels may decrease with age based upon analyses of human aorta. These claims, however, have not been tested under controlled conditions. Here connective and non-connective tissues were collected and analysed for silicon levels from female Sprague–Dawley rats of different ages (namely, 3, 5, 8, 12, 26 and 43 weeks; n = 8–10 per age group), all maintained on the same feed source and drinking water, and kept in the same environment from weaning to adulthood. Tissues (696 samples) were digested in nitric acid and analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry for total silicon content. Fasting serum samples were also collected, diluted and analysed for silicon. Higher concentrations of silicon (up to 50-fold) were found associated with bone and the connective tissues compared with the non-connective tissues. Although total silicon content increased with age in all tissues, the highest connective tissue silicon concentrations (up to 9.98 μg/g wet weight) were found in young weanling rats, decreasing thereafter with age (by 2–6 fold). Fasting serum silicon concentrations reflected the pattern of connective tissue silicon concentrations and, both measures, when compared to collagen data from a prior experiment in Sprague–Dawley rats, mirrored type I collagen turnover with age. Our findings confirm the link between silicon and connective tissues and would imply that young growing rats have proportionally higher requirements for dietary silicon than mature adults, for bone and connective tissue development, although this was not formally investigated here. However, estimation of total body silicon content suggested that actual Si requirements may be substantially lower than previously estimated which could explain why absolute silicon deficiency is difficult to achieve but, when it is achieved in young growing animals, it results in stunted growth and abnormal development of bone and other connective tissues. PMID:25687224

Viscoelastic properties of bovine orbital connective tissue and fat: constitutive models

PubMed Central

Yoo, Lawrence; Gupta, Vijay; Lee, Choongyeop; Kavehpore, Pirouz

2012-01-01

Reported mechanical properties of orbital connective tissue and fat have been too sparse to model strain–stress relationships underlying biomechanical interactions in strabismus. We performed rheological tests to develop a multi-mode upper convected Maxwell (UCM) model of these tissues under shear loading. From 20 fresh bovine orbits, 30 samples of connective tissue were taken from rectus pulley regions and 30 samples of fatty tissues from the posterior orbit. Additional samples were defatted to determine connective tissue weight proportion, which was verified histologically. Mechanical testing in shear employed a triborheometer to perform: strain sweeps at 0.5–2.0 Hz; shear stress relaxation with 1% strain; viscometry at 0.01–0.5 s−1 strain rate; and shear oscillation at 1% strain. Average connective tissue weight proportion was 98% for predominantly connective tissue and 76% for fatty tissue. Connective tissue specimens reached a long-term relaxation modulus of 668 Pa after 1,500 s, while corresponding values for fatty tissue specimens were 290 Pa and 1,100 s. Shear stress magnitude for connective tissue exceeded that of fatty tissue by five-fold. Based on these data, we developed a multimode UCM model with variable viscosities and time constants, and a damped hyperelastic response that accurately described measured properties of both connective and fatty tissues. Model parameters differed significantly between the two tissues. Viscoelastic properties of predominantly connective orbital tissues under shear loading differ markedly from properties of orbital fat, but both are accurately reflected using UCM models. These viscoelastic models will facilitate realistic global modeling of EOM behavior in binocular alignment and strabismus. PMID:21207094

Radiotherapy in patients with connective tissue diseases.

PubMed

Giaj-Levra, Niccolò; Sciascia, Savino; Fiorentino, Alba; Fersino, Sergio; Mazzola, Rosario; Ricchetti, Francesco; Roccatello, Dario; Alongi, Filippo

2016-03-01

The decision to offer radiotherapy in patients with connective tissue diseases continues to be challenging. Radiotherapy might trigger the onset of connective tissue diseases by increasing the expression of self-antigens, diminishing regulatory T-cell activity, and activating effectors of innate immunity (dendritic cells) through Toll-like receptor-dependent mechanisms, all of which could potentially lead to breaks of immune tolerance. This potential risk has raised some debate among radiation oncologists about whether patients with connective tissue diseases can tolerate radiation as well as people without connective tissue diseases. Because the number of patients with cancer and connective tissue diseases needing radiotherapy will probably increase due to improvements in medical treatment and longer life expectancy, the issue of interactions between radiotherapy and connective tissue diseases needs to be clearer. In this Review, we discuss available data and evidence for patients with connective tissue diseases treated with radiotherapy. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

[Muscles and connective tissue: histology].

PubMed

Delage, J-P

2012-10-01

Here, we give some comments about the DVD movies "Muscle Attitudes" from Endovivo productions, the movies up lighting some loss in the attention given to studies on the connective tissue, and especially them into muscles. The main characteristics of the different components in the intra-muscular connective tissue (perimysium, endomysium, epimysium) are shown here with special references to their ordered architecture and special references to their spatial distributions. This connective tissue is abundant into the muscles and is in continuity with the muscles in vicinity, with their tendons and their sheath, sticking the whole on skin. This connective tissue has also very abundant connections on the muscles fibres. It is then assumed that the connective tissue sticks every organs or cells of the locomotion system. Considering the elastic properties of the collagen fibres which are the most abundant component of connective tissue, it is possible to up light a panel of connective tissue associated functions such as the transmission of muscle contractions or the regulation of protein and energetic muscles metabolism. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier SAS.

The role of skin and muscle biopsy in the diagnosis of main connective tissue diseases.

PubMed

Firulescu, Sineta Cristina; Tudoraşcu, Diana Rodica; Pârvănescu, Cristina Dorina; Chisălău, Andreea Beatrice; Bastian, Alexandra Eugenia; Efrem, Ion Cristian; Bărbulescu, Andreea Lili; Forţofoiu, Mircea Cătălin; Criveanu, Cristina; Ionescu, Petronela; Dinescu, Ştefan Cristian; Tudorancea, Andreea Daniela; Ciurea, Paulina Lucia; Vreju, Ananu Florentin

2018-01-01

Systemic involvement in autoimmune diseases is often unclear and organ changes are confounding, thus making it difficult to have an early accurate diagnosis. In those situations, both clinical and paraclinical findings might orientate the diagnosis, but only histological or immunohistochemistry changes might be accurate enough. The skin histological changes are relevant and sometimes might have a tremendous role in the accurate diagnosis of autoimmune rheumatic diseases, due to the correlation with the clinical systemic manifestations of the diseases and through the accessibility of biopsy. In the same time, muscle biopsy can provide important support for physicians improving diagnosis and optimizing management of connective tissue diseases.

Various Techniques to Increase Keratinized Tissue for Implant Supported Overdentures: Retrospective Case Series

PubMed Central

Cayarga, Rodrigo; Suzuki, Takanori; Kaufman, Zev

2015-01-01

Purpose. The purpose of this retrospective case series is to describe and compare different surgical techniques that can be utilized to augment the keratinized soft tissue around implant-supported overdentures. Materials and Methods. The data set was extracted as deidentified information from the routine treatment of patients at the Ashman Department of Periodontology and Implant Dentistry at New York University College of Dentistry. Eight edentulous patients were selected to be included in this study. Patients were treated for lack of keratinized tissue prior to implant placement, during the second stage surgery, and after delivery of the final prosthesis. Results. All 8 patients in this study were wearing a complete maxillary and/or mandibular denture for at least a year before the time of the surgery. One of the following surgical techniques was utilized to increase the amount of keratinized tissue: apically positioned flap (APF), pedicle graft (PG), connective tissue graft (CTG), or free gingival graft (FGG). Conclusions. The amount of keratinized tissue should be taken into consideration when planning for implant-supported overdentures. The apical repositioning flap is an effective approach to increase the width of keratinized tissue prior to the implant placement. PMID:26124833

Taking Aim at Important Targets in Sarcoma | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is the most common childhood soft tissue sarcoma, a cancer of the body’s connective or supportive tissues such as muscle, cartilage, or fat. The two major classifications of RMS include the embryonal subtype, which accounts for approximately three-quarters of children diagnosed with RMS, and the more aggressive alveolar (ARMS) subtype, which has a five-year survival rate of less than 30 percent.

Viscoelastic properties of bovine orbital connective tissue and fat: constitutive models.

PubMed

Yoo, Lawrence; Gupta, Vijay; Lee, Choongyeop; Kavehpore, Pirouz; Demer, Joseph L

2011-12-01

Reported mechanical properties of orbital connective tissue and fat have been too sparse to model strain-stress relationships underlying biomechanical interactions in strabismus. We performed rheological tests to develop a multi-mode upper convected Maxwell (UCM) model of these tissues under shear loading. From 20 fresh bovine orbits, 30 samples of connective tissue were taken from rectus pulley regions and 30 samples of fatty tissues from the posterior orbit. Additional samples were defatted to determine connective tissue weight proportion, which was verified histologically. Mechanical testing in shear employed a triborheometer to perform: strain sweeps at 0.5-2.0 Hz; shear stress relaxation with 1% strain; viscometry at 0.01-0.5 s(-1) strain rate; and shear oscillation at 1% strain. Average connective tissue weight proportion was 98% for predominantly connective tissue and 76% for fatty tissue. Connective tissue specimens reached a long-term relaxation modulus of 668 Pa after 1,500 s, while corresponding values for fatty tissue specimens were 290 Pa and 1,100 s. Shear stress magnitude for connective tissue exceeded that of fatty tissue by five-fold. Based on these data, we developed a multi-mode UCM model with variable viscosities and time constants, and a damped hyperelastic response that accurately described measured properties of both connective and fatty tissues. Model parameters differed significantly between the two tissues. Viscoelastic properties of predominantly connective orbital tissues under shear loading differ markedly from properties of orbital fat, but both are accurately reflected using UCM models. These viscoelastic models will facilitate realistic global modeling of EOM behavior in binocular alignment and strabismus.

Non-myogenic Contribution to Muscle Development and Homeostasis: The Role of Connective Tissues

PubMed Central

Nassari, Sonya; Duprez, Delphine; Fournier-Thibault, Claire

2017-01-01

Skeletal muscles belong to the musculoskeletal system, which is composed of bone, tendon, ligament and irregular connective tissue, and closely associated with motor nerves and blood vessels. The intrinsic molecular signals regulating myogenesis have been extensively investigated. However, muscle development, homeostasis and regeneration require interactions with surrounding tissues and the cellular and molecular aspects of this dialogue have not been completely elucidated. During development and adult life, myogenic cells are closely associated with the different types of connective tissue. Connective tissues are defined as specialized (bone and cartilage), dense regular (tendon and ligament) and dense irregular connective tissue. The role of connective tissue in muscle morphogenesis has been investigated, thanks to the identification of transcription factors that characterize the different types of connective tissues. Here, we review the development of the various connective tissues in the context of the musculoskeletal system and highlight their important role in delivering information necessary for correct muscle morphogenesis, from the early step of myoblast differentiation to the late stage of muscle maturation. Interactions between muscle and connective tissue are also critical in the adult during muscle regeneration, as impairment of the regenerative potential after injury or in neuromuscular diseases results in the progressive replacement of the muscle mass by fibrotic tissue. We conclude that bi-directional communication between muscle and connective tissue is critical for a correct assembly of the musculoskeletal system during development as well as to maintain its homeostasis in the adult. PMID:28386539

Non-myogenic Contribution to Muscle Development and Homeostasis: The Role of Connective Tissues.

PubMed

Nassari, Sonya; Duprez, Delphine; Fournier-Thibault, Claire

2017-01-01

Skeletal muscles belong to the musculoskeletal system, which is composed of bone, tendon, ligament and irregular connective tissue, and closely associated with motor nerves and blood vessels. The intrinsic molecular signals regulating myogenesis have been extensively investigated. However, muscle development, homeostasis and regeneration require interactions with surrounding tissues and the cellular and molecular aspects of this dialogue have not been completely elucidated. During development and adult life, myogenic cells are closely associated with the different types of connective tissue. Connective tissues are defined as specialized (bone and cartilage), dense regular (tendon and ligament) and dense irregular connective tissue. The role of connective tissue in muscle morphogenesis has been investigated, thanks to the identification of transcription factors that characterize the different types of connective tissues. Here, we review the development of the various connective tissues in the context of the musculoskeletal system and highlight their important role in delivering information necessary for correct muscle morphogenesis, from the early step of myoblast differentiation to the late stage of muscle maturation. Interactions between muscle and connective tissue are also critical in the adult during muscle regeneration, as impairment of the regenerative potential after injury or in neuromuscular diseases results in the progressive replacement of the muscle mass by fibrotic tissue. We conclude that bi-directional communication between muscle and connective tissue is critical for a correct assembly of the musculoskeletal system during development as well as to maintain its homeostasis in the adult.

An open prospective single cohort multicenter study evaluating the novel, tapered, conical connection implants supporting single crowns in the anterior and premolar maxilla: interim 1-year results.

PubMed

Fügl, Alexander; Zechner, Werner; Pozzi, Alessandro; Heydecke, Guido; Mirzakhanian, Christine; Behneke, Nikolaus; Behneke, Alexandra; Baer, Russell A; Nölken, Robert; Gottesman, Edward; Colic, Snjezana

2017-07-01

The aim of this multicenter prospective clinical study was to evaluate anodized tapered implants with a conical connection and integrated platform shifting placed in the anterior and premolar maxilla. The study enrolled patients requiring single-tooth restorations in healed sites of maxillary anterior and premolar teeth. All implants were immediately temporized. Clinical and radiographic evaluations were conducted at implant insertion, 6 months, and 1 year. Outcome measures included bone remodeling, cumulative survival rate (CSR), success rate, soft-tissue health and esthetics, and patient satisfaction. Bone remodeling and pink esthetic score were analyzed using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests. CSR was calculated using life table analysis. Other soft-tissue outcomes were analyzed using sign tests. Out of 97 enrolled patients (102 implants), 87 patients (91 implants) completed the 1-year visit. Marginal bone remodeling was -0.85 ± 1.36 mm. After the expected initial bone loss, a mean bone gain of 0.11 ± 1.05 mm was observed between 6 months and 1 year. The CSR was 99.0%, and the cumulative success rate was 97.0%. Partial or full papilla was observed at 30.8% of sites at baseline, 87.2% at 6 months, and 90.5% at 1 year. Soft-tissue response, esthetics, and patient satisfaction all improved during the study period. Bone gain was observed following the expected initial bone loss, and soft-tissue outcomes improved suggesting favorable tissue response using anodized tapered conical connection implants. Rapid stabilization of bone remodeling and robust papilla regeneration indicate favorable tissue healing promoted by the conical connection, platform-shift design. clinicaltrials.gov NCT02175550.

Effects of protein-coated nanofibers on conformation of gingival fibroblast spheroids: potential utility for connective tissues regeneration.

PubMed

Kaufman, Gili; Whitescarver, Ryan; Nunes, Laiz; Palmer, Xavier-Lewis; Skrtic, Drago; Tutak, Wojtek

2017-10-09

Deep wounds in the gingiva caused by trauma or surgery require a rapid and robust healing of connective tissues. We propose utilizing gas-brushed nanofibers coated with collagen and fibrin for that purpose. Our hypotheses are that protein-coated nanofibers will: (i) attract and mobilize cells in various spatial orientations, and (ii) regulate the expression levels of specific extracellular matrix (ECM)-associated proteins, determining the initial conformational nature of dense and soft connective tissues. Gingival fibroblast monolayers and 3D spheroids were cultured on ECM substrate and covered with gas-blown poly-(DL-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanofibers (uncoated/coated with collagen and fibrin). Cell attraction and rearrangement was followed by F-actin staining and confocal microscopy. Thicknesses of the cell layers, developed within the nanofibers, were quantified by imageJ software. The expression of collagen1α1 chain (Col1α1), fibronectin, and metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) encoding genes was determined by quantitative reverse transcription analysis. Collagen- and fibrin- coated nanofibers induced cell migration toward fibers and supported cellular growth within the scaffolds. Both proteins affected the spatial rearrangement of fibroblasts by favoring packed cell clusters or intermittent cell spreading. These cell arrangements resembled the structural characteristic of dense and soft connective tissues, respectively. Within 3 days of incubation, fibroblast spheroids interacted with the fibers and grew robustly by increasing their thickness compared to monolayers. While the ECM key components, such as fibronectin and MMP2 encoding genes, were expressed in both protein groups, Col1α1 was predominantly expressed in bundled fibroblasts grown on collagen fibers. This enhanced expression of collagen1 is typical for dense connective tissue. Based on results of this study, our gas-blown, collagen- and fibrin-coated PLGA nanofibers are viable candidates for engineering soft and dense connective tissues with the required structural characteristics and functions needed for wound healing applications. Rapid regeneration of these layers should enhance healing of open wounds in a harsh oral environment. © 2017 IOP Publishing Ltd.

Voice Rest versus Exercise: A Review of the Literature

PubMed Central

Ishikawa, Keiko; Thibeault, Susan

2010-01-01

Voice rest is commonly prescribed after vocal fold surgery to promote wound healing of the vocal fold. Currently, there is no standard protocol that is established based on biological evidence. In orthopedic rehabilitation, long-term rest is found to be less effective for connective tissue healing than exercise. Connective tissue healing is also an important factor for successful voice rehabilitation; however, whether this concept can be extrapolated to voice rehabilitation is unknown. The purpose of this article is to review current clinical and basic science literature to examine the effect of voice rest in post-surgical rehabilitation. First, we present a summary of clinical literature that pertains to voice rest. Second, description of connective tissue that are involved in orthopedic and voice rehabilitation, specifically, ligament and lamina propria, respectively, and their wound healing process are offered. Third, a summary of the literature from orthopedic research on the effect of rest versus exercise is presented. Lastly, it summarizes in vitro and in vivo studies that examined the effect of mechanical stress on vocal fold tissue. Current literature suggests that there is a lack of clinical evidence that supports a specific type and duration of voice rest, and extrapolation of the findings from orthopedic research may be unreasonable due to the morphological and biochemical difference between the tissues. In order to determine the effect of voice rest, further elucidation of vocal fold wound healing process and the effect of mechanical stress on vocal fold tissue remodeling are needed. PMID:19660903

Functional Connectivity in Islets of Langerhans from Mouse Pancreas Tissue Slices

PubMed Central

Stožer, Andraž; Gosak, Marko; Dolenšek, Jurij; Perc, Matjaž; Marhl, Marko; Rupnik, Marjan Slak; Korošak, Dean

2013-01-01

We propose a network representation of electrically coupled beta cells in islets of Langerhans. Beta cells are functionally connected on the basis of correlations between calcium dynamics of individual cells, obtained by means of confocal laser-scanning calcium imaging in islets from acute mouse pancreas tissue slices. Obtained functional networks are analyzed in the light of known structural and physiological properties of islets. Focusing on the temporal evolution of the network under stimulation with glucose, we show that the dynamics are more correlated under stimulation than under non-stimulated conditions and that the highest overall correlation, largely independent of Euclidean distances between cells, is observed in the activation and deactivation phases when cells are driven by the external stimulus. Moreover, we find that the range of interactions in networks during activity shows a clear dependence on the Euclidean distance, lending support to previous observations that beta cells are synchronized via calcium waves spreading throughout islets. Most interestingly, the functional connectivity patterns between beta cells exhibit small-world properties, suggesting that beta cells do not form a homogeneous geometric network but are connected in a functionally more efficient way. Presented results provide support for the existing knowledge of beta cell physiology from a network perspective and shed important new light on the functional organization of beta cell syncitia whose structural topology is probably not as trivial as believed so far. PMID:23468610

Molecular regulation of CCN2 in the intervertebral disc: lessons learned from other connective tissues.

PubMed

Tran, Cassie M; Shapiro, Irving M; Risbud, Makarand V

2013-08-08

Connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF) plays an important role in extracellular matrix synthesis, especially in skeletal tissues such as cartilage, bone, and the intervertebral disc. As a result there is a growing interest in examining the function and regulation of this important molecule in the disc. This review discusses the regulation of CCN2 by TGF-β and hypoxia, two critical determinants that characterize the disc microenvironment, and discusses known functions of CCN2 in the disc. The almost ubiquitous regulation of CCN2 by TGF-β, including that seen in the disc, emphasizes the importance of the TGF-β-CCN2 relationship, especially in terms of extracellular matrix synthesis. Likewise, the unique cross-talk between CCN2 and HIF-1 in the disc highlights the tissue and niche specific mode of regulation. Taken together the current literature supports an anabolic role for CCN2 in the disc and its involvement in the maintenance of tissue homeostasis during both health and disease. Further studies of CCN2 in this tissue may reveal valuable targets for the biological therapy of disc degeneration. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effectiveness of different styles of massage therapy in fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

PubMed

Yuan, Susan Lee King; Matsutani, Luciana Akemi; Marques, Amélia Pasqual

2015-04-01

The systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of massage in fibromyalgia. An electronic search was conducted at MEDLINE, SCiELO, EMBASE, ISI, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL and LILACS (Jan 1990-May 2013). Ten randomized and non-randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of massage alone on symptoms and health-related quality of life of adult patients with fibromyalgia were included. Two reviewers independently screened records, examined full-text reports for compliance with the eligibility criteria, and extracted data. Meta-analysis (pooled from 145 participants) shows that myofascial release had large, positive effects on pain and medium effects on anxiety and depression at the end of treatment, in contrast with placebo; effects on pain and depression were maintained in the medium and short term, respectively. Narrative analysis suggests that: myofascial release also improves fatigue, stiffness and quality of life; connective tissue massage improves depression and quality of life; manual lymphatic drainage is superior to connective tissue massage regarding stiffness, depression and quality of life; Shiatsu improves pain, pressure pain threshold, fatigue, sleep and quality of life; and Swedish massage does not improve outcomes. There is moderate evidence that myofascial release is beneficial for fibromyalgia symptoms. Limited evidence supports the application of connective tissue massage and Shiatsu. Manual lymphatic drainage may be superior to connective tissue massage, and Swedish massage may have no effects. Overall, most styles of massage therapy consistently improved the quality of life of fibromyalgia patients. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

An Evaluation of Collagen Metabolism in Non Human Primates Associated with the Bion 11 Space Program-Markers of Urinary Collagen Turnover and Muscle Connective Tissue

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vailas, Arthur C.; Martinez, Daniel A.

1999-01-01

Patients exhibiting changes in connective tissue and bone metabolism also show changes in urinary by-products of tissue metabolism. Furthermore, the changes in urinary connective tissue and bone metabolites precede alterations at the tissue macromolecular level. Astronauts and Cosmonauts have also shown suggestive increases in urinary by-products of mineralized and non-mineralized tissue degradation. Thus, the idea of assessing connective tissue and bone response in spaceflight monkeys by measurement of biomarkers in urine has merit. Other investigations of bone and connective histology, cytology and chemistry in the Bion 11 monkeys will allow for further validation of the relationship of urinary biomarkers and tissue response. In future flights the non-invasive procedure of urinary analysis may be useful in early detection of changes in these tissues. The purpose of this grant investigation was to evaluate mineralized and non-mineralized connective tissue responses of non-human primates to microgravity by the non-invasive analysis of urinary biomarkers. Secondly, we also wanted to assess muscle connective tissue adaptive changes in three weight-bearing skeletal muscles: the soleus, media] gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior by obtaining pre-flight and post-flight small biopsy specimens in collaboration with Dr. V. Reggie Edgerton's laboratory at the University of California at Los Angeles.

A Novel Esthetic Approach using Connective Tissue Graft for Soft Tissue Defect Following Surgical Excision of Gingival Fibrolipoma

PubMed Central

Parthasarathy, Harinath; Kumar, Praveenkrishna; Gajendran, Priyalochana; Appukuttan, Devapriya

2014-01-01

The aim of the present case report is to evaluate the adjunctive use of a connective tissue graft to overcome soft tissue defects following excision of a gingival fibrolipoma in the aesthetic region. Connective tissue graft has been well documented for treating defects of esthetic concern. However, the literature does not contain many reports on the esthetic clinical outcome following the use of connective tissue graft secondary to excision of soft tissue tumours. A 28-year-old male patient reported with a complaint of a recurrent growth in relation to his lower front tooth region. The lesion which was provisionally diagnosed as fibroma was treated with a complete surgical excision, following which a modified coronally advanced flap and connective tissue graft was adopted to overcome the soft tissue defect. The excised growth was diagnosed histologically as fibrolipoma. One year follow up showed no recurrence of the lesion and good esthetics.The adjunctive use of the connective tissue graft and modified coronally advanced flap predictably yields optimal soft tissue fill and excellent esthetics. Hence, routine use of this procedure may be recommended for surgical excision of soft tissue growths in esthetically sensitive areas. PMID:25584336

The diagnostic value of plasma N-terminal connective tissue growth factor levels in children with heart failure.

PubMed

Li, Gang; Song, Xueqing; Xia, Jiyi; Li, Jing; Jia, Peng; Chen, Pengyuan; Zhao, Jian; Liu, Bin

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of plasma N-terminal connective tissue growth factor in children with heart failure. Methods and results Plasma N-terminal connective tissue growth factor was determined in 61 children, including 41 children with heart failure, 20 children without heart failure, and 30 healthy volunteers. The correlations between plasma N-terminal connective tissue growth factor levels and clinical parameters were investigated. Moreover, the diagnostic value of N-terminal connective tissue growth factor levels was evaluated. Compared with healthy volunteers and children without heart failure, plasma N-terminal connective tissue growth factor levels were significantly elevated in those with heart failure (p0.05), but it obviously improved the ability of diagnosing heart failure in children, as demonstrated by the integrated discrimination improvement (6.2%, p=0.013) and net re-classification improvement (13.2%, p=0.017) indices. Plasma N-terminal connective tissue growth factor is a promising diagnostic biomarker for heart failure in children.

[Oral rehabilitation with metalloceramic restorations in patients with non-differentiated systemic connective tissue dysplasia].

PubMed

Stafeev, А А

2015-01-01

False formation of connective tissues have a great influence on structure and function of organs and tissues of the human body. In prosthodontics, the changes in connective tissues greatly occur during clinical stages of preparing metal ceramic dentures. The algorithm of treatment patients with connective tissue dysplasia during metal ceramic dentures was developed and introduced into practical dentistry based on studying the morphology and functionality of dentition and clinical experience.

Morphogenesis and growth of the soft tissue and cartilage of the vomeronasal organ in pigs

PubMed Central

Salazar, Ignacio; Lombardero, Matilde; Cifuentes, José M; Quinteiro, Pablo Sánchez; Alemañ, Nuria

2003-01-01

The morphology of the soft tissue and supporting cartilage of the vomeronasal organ of the fetal pig was studied from early stages to term. Specimens obtained from an abattoir were aged by crown-to-rump distance. Series of transverse sections show that some time before birth all structures – cartilage, connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, glands and epithelia – are well developed and very similar in appearance to those of the adult. Furthermore, in transmission electron microscopy photomicrographs obtained at this stage the vomeronasal glands exhibit secretory activity. PMID:12846472

Qualitative assessment of connective tissue graft with epithelial component. A microsurgical periodontal plastic surgical technique for soft tissue esthetics.

PubMed

Rossi, Roberto; Pilloni, Andrea; Morales, Regina Santos

2009-01-01

Connective tissue grafts have been used successfully in the treatment of gingival recession. In the mid 80s and late 90s, the periodontal literature presented various techniques such as free gingival grafts, pedicle flaps, subepithelial connective tissue grafts, acellular dermal matrix grafts, and guided tissue regeneration to cover denuded root surfaces. Currently, connective tissue grafting is a reliable treatment for esthetic root coverage. This paper presents a qualitative assessment of a surgical technique that uses a connective tissue graft, including a portion of epithelium in the shape of the defect. This procedure enhances the healing of the covered root surface, increases the thickness of the soft tissue and improves esthetics. The criteria used for evaluation were: color, volume, texture, and blending. This evaluation demonstrated encouraging results from an esthetic viewpoint.

Scleroderma

MedlinePlus

... of diseases that cause abnormal growth of connective tissue. Connective tissue is the material inside your body that gives ... joints. Symptoms of scleroderma include Calcium deposits in connective tissues Raynaud's phenomenon, a narrowing of blood vessels in ...

Soft tissue remodeling technique as a non-invasive alternative to second implant surgery.

PubMed

Vela, Xavier; Méndez, Víctor; Rodríguez, Xavier; Segalà, Maribel; Gil, Jaime A

2012-01-01

It is currently accepted that success in implant-supported restorations is based not only on osseointegration, but also on achieving the esthetic outcome of natural teeth and healthy soft tissues. The socalled "pink esthetic" has become the main challenge with implant-supported rehabilitations in the anterior area. This is especially difficult in the cases with two adjacent implants. Two components affect the final periimplant gingiva: a correct bone support, and a sufficient quantity and quality of soft tissues. Several papers have emphasized the need to regenerate and preserve the bone after extractions, or after the exposure of the implants to the oral environment. The classical implantation protocol entails entering the working area several times and always involves the surgical manipulation of peri-implant tissues. Careful surgical handling of the soft tissues when exposing the implants and placing the healing abutments (second surgery) helps the clinician to obtain the best possible results, but even so there is a loss of volume of the tissues as they become weaker and more rigid after each procedure. The present study proposes a new protocol that includes the connective tissue graft placement and the soft tissues remodeling technique, which is based on the use of the ovoid pontics. This technique may help to minimize the logical scar reaction after the second surgery and to improve the final emergence profile.

Sustained deep-tissue pain alters functional brain connectivity.

PubMed

Kim, Jieun; Loggia, Marco L; Edwards, Robert R; Wasan, Ajay D; Gollub, Randy L; Napadow, Vitaly

2013-08-01

Recent functional brain connectivity studies have contributed to our understanding of the neurocircuitry supporting pain perception. However, evoked-pain connectivity studies have employed cutaneous and/or brief stimuli, which induce sensations that differ appreciably from the clinical pain experience. Sustained myofascial pain evoked by pressure cuff affords an excellent opportunity to evaluate functional connectivity change to more clinically relevant sustained deep-tissue pain. Connectivity in specific networks known to be modulated by evoked pain (sensorimotor, salience, dorsal attention, frontoparietal control, and default mode networks: SMN, SLN, DAN, FCN, and DMN) was evaluated with functional-connectivity magnetic resonance imaging, both at rest and during a sustained (6-minute) pain state in healthy adults. We found that pain was stable, with no significant changes of subjects' pain ratings over the stimulation period. Sustained pain reduced connectivity between the SMN and the contralateral leg primary sensorimotor (S1/M1) representation. Such SMN-S1/M1 connectivity decreases were also accompanied by and correlated with increased SLN-S1/M1 connectivity, suggesting recruitment of activated S1/M1 from SMN to SLN. Sustained pain also increased DAN connectivity to pain processing regions such as mid-cingulate cortex, posterior insula, and putamen. Moreover, greater connectivity during pain between contralateral S1/M1 and posterior insula, thalamus, putamen, and amygdala was associated with lower cuff pressures needed to reach the targeted pain sensation. These results demonstrate that sustained pain disrupts resting S1/M1 connectivity by shifting it to a network known to process stimulus salience. Furthermore, increased connectivity between S1/M1 and both sensory and affective processing areas may be an important contribution to interindividual differences in pain sensitivity. Copyright © 2013 International Association for the Study of Pain. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Sustained deep-tissue pain alters functional brain connectivity

PubMed Central

Kim, Jieun; Loggia, Marco L.; Edwards, Robert; Wasan, Ajay D.; Gollub, Randy L.; Napadow, Vitaly

2013-01-01

Recent functional brain connectivity studies have contributed to our understanding of the neurocircuitry supporting pain perception. However, evoked-pain connectivity studies have employed cutaneous and/or brief stimuli, which induce sensations that differ appreciably from the clinical pain experience. Sustained myofascial pain evoked by pressure cuff affords an excellent opportunity to evaluate functional connectivity change to more clinically-relevant sustained deep-tissue pain. Connectivity in specific networks known to be modulated by evoked pain (sensorimotor, salience, dorsal attention, fronto-parietal control and default mode networks; SMN, SLN, DAN, FCN and DMN) was evaluated with functional-connectivity MRI, both at rest and during a sustained (6-minute) pain state in healthy adults. We found that pain was stable with no significant changes of subjects’ pain ratings over the stimulation period. Sustained pain reduced connectivity between the SMN and the contralateral leg primary sensorimotor (S1/M1) representation. Such SMN-S1/M1 connectivity decreases were also accompanied by and correlated with increased SLN-S1/M1 connectivity, suggesting recruitment of activated S1/M1 from SMN to SLN. Sustained pain also increased DAN connectivity to pain processing regions such as mid-cingulate cortex, posterior insula and putamen. Moreover, greater connectivity during pain between contralateral S1/M1 and posterior insula, thalamus, putamen, and amygdala, was associated with lower cuff pressures needed to reach the targeted pain sensation. These results demonstrate that sustained pain disrupts resting S1/M1 connectivity by shifting it to a network known to process stimulus salience. Furthermore, increased connectivity between S1/M1 and both sensory and affective processing areas may be an important contribution to inter-individual differences in pain sensitivity. PMID:23718988

Blood Flow Changes in Subsynovial Connective Tissue on Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasonography in Patients With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Before and After Surgical Decompression.

PubMed

Motomiya, Makoto; Funakoshi, Tadanao; Ishizaka, Kinya; Nishida, Mutsumi; Matsui, Yuichiro; Iwasaki, Norimasa

2017-11-24

Although qualitative alteration of the subsynovial connective tissue in the carpal tunnel is considered to be one of the most important factors in the pathophysiologic mechanisms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), little information is available about the microcirculation in the subsynovial connective tissue in patients with CTS. The aims of this study were to use contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (US) to evaluate blood flow in the subsynovial connective tissue proximal to the carpal tunnel in patients with CTS before and after carpal tunnel release. The study included 15 volunteers and 12 patients with CTS. The blood flow in the subsynovial connective tissue and the median nerve was evaluated preoperatively and at 1, 2, and 3 months postoperatively using contrast-enhanced US. The blood flow in the subsynovial connective tissue was higher in the patients with CTS than in the volunteers. In the patients with CTS, there was a significant correlation between the blood flow in the subsynovial connective tissue and the median nerve (P = .01). The blood flow in both the subsynovial connective tissue and the median nerve increased markedly after carpal tunnel release. Our results suggest that increased blood flow in the subsynovial connective tissue may play a role in the alteration of the microcirculation within the median nerve related to the pathophysiologic mechanisms of CTS. The increase in the blood flow in the subsynovial connective tissue during the early postoperative period may contribute to the changes in intraneural circulation, and these changes may lead to neural recovery. © 2017 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Pectus Excavatum and Heritable Disorders of the Connective Tissue

PubMed Central

Tocchioni, Francesca; Ghionzoli, Marco; Messineo, Antonio; Romagnoli, Paolo

2013-01-01

Pectus excavatum, the most frequent congenital chest wall deformity, may be rarely observed as a sole deformity or as a sign of an underlying connective tissue disorder. To date, only few studies have described correlations between this deformity and heritable connective tissue disorders such as Marfan, Ehlers-Danlos, Poland, MASS (Mitral valve prolapse, not progressive Aortic enlargement, Skeletal and Skin alterations) phenotype among others. When concurring with connective tissue disorder, cardiopulmonary and vascular involvement may be associated to the thoracic defect. Ruling out the concomitance of pectus excavatum and connective tissue disorders, therefore, may have a direct implication both on surgical outcome and long term prognosis. In this review we focused on biological bases of connective tissue disorders which may be relevant to the pathogenesis of pectus excavatum, portraying surgical and clinical implication of their concurrence. PMID:24198927

Existence of life-time stable proteins in mature rats—Dating of proteins’ age by repeated short-term exposure to labeled amino acids throughout age

PubMed Central

Schjerling, Peter; Bornø, Andreas; Holm, Lars

2017-01-01

In vivo turnover rates of proteins covering the processes of protein synthesis and breakdown rates have been measured in many tissues and protein pools using various techniques. Connective tissue and collagen protein turnover is of specific interest since existing results are rather diverging. The aim of this study is to investigate whether we can verify the presence of protein pools within the same tissue with very distinct turnover rates over the life-span of rats with special focus on connective tissue. Male and female Lewis rats (n = 35) were injected with five different isotopically labeled amino acids tracers. The tracers were injected during fetal development (Day -10 to -2), after birth (Day 5–9), at weaning (Day 25–32) at puberty (Day 54–58) and at adulthood (Day 447–445). Subgroups of rats were euthanized three days after every injection period, at different time point between injection periods and lastly at day 472. Tissue (liver, muscle, eye lens and patellar tendon) and blood samples were collected after euthanization. The enrichment of the labeled amino acids in the tissue or blood samples was measured using GC-MS-MS. In muscle and liver we demonstrated a rapid decrease of tracer enrichments throughout the rat’s life, indicating that myofibrillar and cytoskeleton proteins have a high turnover. In contrast, the connective tissue protein in the eye lens and patellar tendon of the mature rat showed detainment of tracer enrichment injected during fetal development and first living days, indicating very slow turnover. The data support the hypothesis that some proteins synthesized during the early development and growth still exist much later in life of animals and hence has a very slow turnover rate. PMID:28957442

An Evaluation of Collagen Metabolism in Non Human Primates Associated with the Bion 11 Space Program-Markers of Urinary Collagen Turnover and Muscle Connective Tissue

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vailas, Arthur C.; Martinez, Daniel A.

1999-01-01

Patients exhibiting changes in connective tissue and bone metabolism also show changes in urinary by-products of tissue metabolism. Furthermore, the changes in urinary connective tissue and bone metabolites precede alterations at the tissue macromolecular level. Astronauts and Cosmonauts have also shown suggestive increases in urinary by-products of mineralized and non-mineralized tissue degradation. Thus, the idea of assessing connective tissue and bone response in spaceflight monkeys by measurement of biomarkers in urine has merit. Other investigations of bone and connective histology, cytology and chemistry in the Bion 11 monkeys will allow for further validation of the relationship of urinary biomarkers and tissue response. In future flights the non-invasive procedure of urinary analysis may be useful in early detection of changes in these tissues. Purpose: The purpose of this grant investigation was to evaluate mineralized and non-mineralized connective tissue responses of non-human primates to microgravity by the non-invasive analysis of urinary biomarkers. Secondly, we also wanted to assess muscle connective tissue adaptive changes in three weight-bearing skeletal muscles: the soleus, medial gastrocnemius and tibialis anterior by obtaining pre-flight and post-flight small biopsy specimens in collaboration with Dr. V. Reggie Edgerton's laboratory at the University of California at Los Angeles.

Unusual glycosaminoglycans from a deep sea hydrothermal bacterium improve fibrillar collagen structuring and fibroblast activities in engineered connective tissues.

PubMed

Senni, Karim; Gueniche, Farida; Changotade, Sylvie; Septier, Dominique; Sinquin, Corinne; Ratiskol, Jacqueline; Lutomski, Didier; Godeau, Gaston; Guezennec, Jean; Colliec-Jouault, Sylvia

2013-04-23

Biopolymers produced by marine organisms can offer useful tools for regenerative medicine. Particularly, HE800 exopolysaccharide (HE800 EPS) secreted by a deep-sea hydrothermal bacterium displays an interesting glycosaminoglycan-like feature resembling hyaluronan. Previous studies demonstrated its effectiveness to enhance in vivo bone regeneration and to support osteoblastic cell metabolism in culture. Thus, in order to assess the usefulness of this high-molecular weight polymer in tissue engineering and tissue repair, in vitro reconstructed connective tissues containing HE800 EPS were performed. We showed that this polysaccharide promotes both collagen structuring and extracellular matrix settle by dermal fibroblasts. Furthermore, from the native HE800 EPS, a low-molecular weight sulfated derivative (HE800 DROS) displaying chemical analogy with heparan-sulfate, was designed. Thus, it was demonstrated that HE800 DROS mimics some properties of heparan-sulfate, such as promotion of fibroblast proliferation and inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion. Therefore, we suggest that the HE800EPS family can be considered as an innovative biotechnological source of glycosaminoglycan-like compounds useful to design biomaterials and drugs for tissue engineering and repair.

Unusual Glycosaminoglycans from a Deep Sea Hydrothermal Bacterium Improve Fibrillar Collagen Structuring and Fibroblast Activities in Engineered Connective Tissues

PubMed Central

Senni, Karim; Gueniche, Farida; Changotade, Sylvie; Septier, Dominique; Sinquin, Corinne; Ratiskol, Jacqueline; Lutomski, Didier; Godeau, Gaston; Guezennec, Jean; Colliec-Jouault, Sylvia

2013-01-01

Biopolymers produced by marine organisms can offer useful tools for regenerative medicine. Particularly, HE800 exopolysaccharide (HE800 EPS) secreted by a deep-sea hydrothermal bacterium displays an interesting glycosaminoglycan-like feature resembling hyaluronan. Previous studies demonstrated its effectiveness to enhance in vivo bone regeneration and to support osteoblastic cell metabolism in culture. Thus, in order to assess the usefulness of this high-molecular weight polymer in tissue engineering and tissue repair, in vitro reconstructed connective tissues containing HE800 EPS were performed. We showed that this polysaccharide promotes both collagen structuring and extracellular matrix settle by dermal fibroblasts. Furthermore, from the native HE800 EPS, a low-molecular weight sulfated derivative (HE800 DROS) displaying chemical analogy with heparan-sulfate, was designed. Thus, it was demonstrated that HE800 DROS mimics some properties of heparan-sulfate, such as promotion of fibroblast proliferation and inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) secretion. Therefore, we suggest that the HE800EPS family can be considered as an innovative biotechnological source of glycosaminoglycan-like compounds useful to design biomaterials and drugs for tissue engineering and repair. PMID:23612369

Histological Features and Biocompatibility of Bone and Soft Tissue Substitutes in the Atrophic Alveolar Ridge Reconstruction

PubMed Central

Rancitelli, Davide; Grossi, Giovanni Battista; Herford, Alan Scott

2016-01-01

The reconstruction of the atrophic alveolar ridges for implant placement is today a common procedure in dentistry daily practice. The surgical reconstruction provides for the optimization of the supporting bone for the implants and a restoration of the amount of keratinized gingiva for esthetic and functional reasons. In the past, tissue regeneration has been performed with autogenous bone and free gingival or connective tissue grafts. Nowadays, bone substitutes and specific collagen matrix allow for a complete restoration of the atrophic ridge without invasive harvesting procedures. A maxillary reconstruction of an atrophic ridge by means of tissue substitutes and its histological features are then presented. PMID:27022489

Histological Features and Biocompatibility of Bone and Soft Tissue Substitutes in the Atrophic Alveolar Ridge Reconstruction.

PubMed

Maiorana, Carlo; Beretta, Mario; Rancitelli, Davide; Grossi, Giovanni Battista; Cicciù, Marco; Herford, Alan Scott

2016-01-01

The reconstruction of the atrophic alveolar ridges for implant placement is today a common procedure in dentistry daily practice. The surgical reconstruction provides for the optimization of the supporting bone for the implants and a restoration of the amount of keratinized gingiva for esthetic and functional reasons. In the past, tissue regeneration has been performed with autogenous bone and free gingival or connective tissue grafts. Nowadays, bone substitutes and specific collagen matrix allow for a complete restoration of the atrophic ridge without invasive harvesting procedures. A maxillary reconstruction of an atrophic ridge by means of tissue substitutes and its histological features are then presented.

Genetics Home Reference: arterial tortuosity syndrome

MedlinePlus

... tortuosity syndrome is a disorder that affects connective tissue. Connective tissue provides strength and flexibility to structures throughout the ... outside the circulatory system are caused by abnormal connective tissue in other parts of the body. These features ...

BRAIN NETWORKS. Correlated gene expression supports synchronous activity in brain networks.

PubMed

Richiardi, Jonas; Altmann, Andre; Milazzo, Anna-Clare; Chang, Catie; Chakravarty, M Mallar; Banaschewski, Tobias; Barker, Gareth J; Bokde, Arun L W; Bromberg, Uli; Büchel, Christian; Conrod, Patricia; Fauth-Bühler, Mira; Flor, Herta; Frouin, Vincent; Gallinat, Jürgen; Garavan, Hugh; Gowland, Penny; Heinz, Andreas; Lemaître, Hervé; Mann, Karl F; Martinot, Jean-Luc; Nees, Frauke; Paus, Tomáš; Pausova, Zdenka; Rietschel, Marcella; Robbins, Trevor W; Smolka, Michael N; Spanagel, Rainer; Ströhle, Andreas; Schumann, Gunter; Hawrylycz, Mike; Poline, Jean-Baptiste; Greicius, Michael D

2015-06-12

During rest, brain activity is synchronized between different regions widely distributed throughout the brain, forming functional networks. However, the molecular mechanisms supporting functional connectivity remain undefined. We show that functional brain networks defined with resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging can be recapitulated by using measures of correlated gene expression in a post mortem brain tissue data set. The set of 136 genes we identify is significantly enriched for ion channels. Polymorphisms in this set of genes significantly affect resting-state functional connectivity in a large sample of healthy adolescents. Expression levels of these genes are also significantly associated with axonal connectivity in the mouse. The results provide convergent, multimodal evidence that resting-state functional networks correlate with the orchestrated activity of dozens of genes linked to ion channel activity and synaptic function. Copyright © 2015, American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Connective tissue spectrum abnormalities associated with spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leaks: a prospective study.

PubMed

Reinstein, Eyal; Pariani, Mitchel; Bannykh, Serguei; Rimoin, David L; Schievink, Wouter I

2013-04-01

We aimed to assess the frequency of connective tissue abnormalities among patients with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks in a prospective study using a large cohort of patients. We enrolled a consecutive group of 50 patients, referred for consultation because of CSF leak. All patients have been carefully examined for the presence of connective tissue abnormalities, and based on findings, patients underwent genetic testing. Ancillary diagnostic studies included echocardiography, eye exam, and histopathological examinations of skin and dura biopsies in selected patients. We identified nine patients with heritable connective tissue disorders, including Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and other unclassified forms. In seven patients, spontaneous CSF leak was the first noted manifestation of the genetic disorder. We conclude that spontaneous CSF leaks are associated with a spectrum of connective tissue abnormalities and may be the first noted clinical presentation of the genetic disorder. We propose that there is a clinical basis for considering spontaneous CSF leak as a clinical manifestation of heritable connective tissue disorders, and we suggest that patients with CSF leaks should be screened for connective tissue and vascular abnormalities.

Clinical anatomy of the pelvic floor.

PubMed

Fritsch, H; Lienemann, A; Brenner, E; Ludwikowski, B

2004-01-01

The study presented here comparing cross-sectional anatomy of the fetal and the adult pelvic connective tissue with the results of modern imaging techniques and actual surgical techniques shows that the classical concepts concerning the subdivision of the pelvic connective tissue and muscles need to be revised. According to clinical requirements, the subdivision of the pelvic cavity into anterior, posterior, and middle compartments is feasible. Predominating connecting tissue structures within the different compartments are: Paravisceral fat pad within the anterior compartment (Fig. 17, I), rectal adventitia or perirectal tissue within the posterior compartment (Fig. 17, II), and uterosacral ligaments within the middle compartment. The nerve-vessel guiding plate can be found in all of these compartments; it starts within the posterior compartment and it ends within the anterior one. It constitutes the morphological border between the anterior and posterior compartments in the male. This border is supplied by the uterosacral ligaments in the female. Whereas in gross anatomy no further border is discernable between anterior and posterior or middle compartment, the rectal fascia (hardly visible in embalmed cadavers) demarcates the rectal adventitia and is one of the most important pelvic structures for the surgeon. In principle, the outlined subdivision of the pelvic connective tissue is identical in the male and in the female; facts that become clear from early human life and that are already established during this period (Fig. 18). The uterus is interposed between the bladder and rectum and subdivides the pelvic peritoneum into two pouches thus establishing the only real difference between male and female pelvic cavity. The preferential direction of the pelvic connective tissue fibers is not changed by the interposition of the uterovaginal complex. The pelvic floor muscles are composed of the portions of the levator ani muscle, the muscles of the cavernous organs and the deep transverse perineal muscle in the male. The latter does not exist in the female. We have clearly shown that the different muscles can already be found in early human life and that they are never intermingled with the muscular walls of the pelvic organs. The levator ani muscle of the female, however, is intermingled with connective tissue long before the female sexual hormones exert influence. We have also shown that the distinct sexual differences within the pelvic floor muscles as well as within the sphincter muscles can already be found in early human life. Both the external urethral and the external anal sphincter muscles are not completely circular. The external anal sphincter is intimately connected with the internal sphincter as well as with the longitudinal muscle. Whereas the innervation and function of the urethral sphincter muscles are mostly clear, cloacal development, innervation, and function of all parts of anal sphincter complex are not completely clarified. As to the support of the pelvic viscera, we believe that intact pelvic floor muscles, an undisturbed topography of the pelvic organs, and an undisturbed perineum are of more importance than the so-called pelvic ligaments. Our hypothesis points to the fact that the support of pelvic viscera is multistructural. Thus in pelvic surgery, a lot of techniques have to be revised with the aim to preserve or to reconstruct all the structures mentioned. This is a multidisciplinary task that can only be solved by cooperation of morphologists, urologists, gynecologists, and coloproctologic surgeons or by creating a multidisciplinary pelvic floor specialist.

The Effect of Tissue Entrapment on Screw Loosening at the Implant/Abutment Interface of External- and Internal-Connection Implants: An In Vitro Study.

PubMed

Zeno, Helios A; Buitrago, Renan L; Sternberger, Sidney S; Patt, Marisa E; Tovar, Nick; Coelho, Paulo; Kurtz, Kenneth S; Tuminelli, Frank J

2016-04-01

To compare the removal of torque values of machined implant abutment connections (internal and external) with and without soft tissue entrapment using an in vitro model. Thirty external- and 30 internal-connection implants were embedded in urethane dimethacrylate. Porcine tissue was prepared and measured to thicknesses of 0.5 and 1.0 mm. Six groups (n = 10) were studied: External- and internal-connection implants with no tissue (control), 0.5, and 1.0 mm of tissue were entrapped at the implant/abutment interface. Abutments were inserted to 20 Ncm for all six groups. Insertion torque values were recorded using a digital torque gauge. All groups were then immersed in 1 M NaOH for 48 hours to dissolve tissue. Subsequent reverse torque measurements were recorded. Mean and standard deviation were determined for each group, and one-way ANOVA and Bonferroni test were used for statistical analysis. All 60 specimens achieved a 20-Ncm insertion torque, despite tissue entrapment. Reverse torque measurements for external connection displayed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) between all groups with mean reverse torque values for the control (13.71 ± 1.4 Ncm), 0.5 mm (7.83 ± 2.4 Ncm), and 1.0 mm tissue entrapment (2.29 ± 1.4 Ncm) groups. Some statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between internal-connection groups. In all specimens, tissue did not completely dissolve after 48 hours. External-connection implants were significantly affected by tissue entrapment; the thicker the tissue, the lower the reverse torque values noted. Internal-connection implants were less affected by tissue entrapment. © 2015 by the American College of Prosthodontists.

Exercise and Regulation of Bone and Collagen Tissue Biology.

PubMed

Kjaer, Michael; Jørgensen, Niklas Rye; Heinemeier, Katja; Magnusson, S Peter

2015-01-01

The musculoskeletal system and its connective tissue include the intramuscular connective tissue, the myotendinous junction, the tendon, the joints with their cartilage and ligaments, and the bone; they all together play a crucial role in maintaining the architecture of the skeletal muscle, ensuring force transmission, storing energy, protecting joint surface and stability, and ensuring the transfer of muscular forces into resulting limb movement. The musculoskeletal connective tissue structure is relatively stable, but mechanical loading and subsequent mechanotransduction and molecular anabolic signaling can result in some adaptation of the connective tissue, its size, its strength, and its mechanical properties, whereby it can improve its capacity by 5-20% with regular physical activity. For several of the mechanically loaded connective tissues, only limited information regarding molecular and cellular signaling pathways and their adaptation to exercise is available. In contrast to tissue responses with exercise, lack of mechanical tissue loading through inactivity or immobilization of the human body will result in a dramatic loss of connective tissue content, structure, and tolerable load within weeks, to a degree (30-40%) that mimics that of contractile skeletal musculature. This illustrates the importance of regular mechanical load in order to preserve the stabilizing role of the connective tissue for the overall function of the musculoskeletal system in both daily activity and exercise. © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Anatomy and histology of apical support: a literature review concerning cardinal and uterosacral ligaments.

PubMed

Ramanah, Rajeev; Berger, Mitchell B; Parratte, Bernard M; DeLancey, John O L

2012-11-01

The objective of this work was to collect and summarize relevant literature on the anatomy, histology, and imaging of apical support of the upper vagina and the uterus provided by the cardinal (CL) and uterosacral (USL) ligaments. A literature search in English, French, and German languages was carried out with the keywords apical support, cardinal ligament, transverse cervical ligament, Mackenrodt ligament, parametrium, paracervix, retinaculum uteri, web, uterosacral ligament, and sacrouterine ligament in the PubMed database. Other relevant journal and textbook articles were sought by retrieving references cited in previous PubMed articles. Fifty references were examined in peer-reviewed journals and textbooks. The USL extends from the S2 to the S4 vertebra region to the dorsal margin of the uterine cervix and/or to the upper third of the posterior vaginal wall. It has a superficial and deep component. Autonomous nerve fibers are a major constituent of the deep USL. CL is defined as a perivascular sheath with a proximal insertion around the origin of the internal iliac artery and a distal insertion on the cervix and/or vagina. It is divided into a cranial (vascular) and a caudal (neural) portions. Histologically, it contains mainly vessels, with no distinct band of connective tissue. Both the deep USL and the caudal CL are closely related to the inferior hypogastric plexus. USL and CL are visceral ligaments, with mesentery-like structures containing vessels, nerves, connective tissue, and adipose tissue.

Anatomy and histology of apical support: a literature review concerning cardinal and uterosacral ligaments

PubMed Central

Ramanah, Rajeev; Berger, Mitchell B.; Parratte, Bernard M.

2014-01-01

The objective of this work was to collect and summarize relevant literature on the anatomy, histology, and imaging of apical support of the upper vagina and the uterus provided by the cardinal (CL) and uterosacral (USL) ligaments. A literature search in English, French, and German languages was carried out with the keywords apical support, cardinal ligament, transverse cervical ligament, Mackenrodt ligament, parametrium, paracervix, retinaculum uteri, web, uterosacral ligament, and sacrouterine ligament in the PubMed database. Other relevant journal and textbook articles were sought by retrieving references cited in previous PubMed articles. Fifty references were examined in peer-reviewed journals and textbooks. The USL extends from the S2 to the S4 vertebra region to the dorsal margin of the uterine cervix and/or to the upper third of the posterior vaginal wall. It has a superficial and deep component. Autonomous nerve fibers are a major constituent of the deep USL. CL is defined as a perivascular sheath with a proximal insertion around the origin of the internal iliac artery and a distal insertion on the cervix and/or vagina. It is divided into a cranial (vascular) and a caudal (neural) portions. Histologically, it contains mainly vessels, with no distinct band of connective tissue. Both the deep USL and the caudal CL are closely related to the inferior hypogastric plexus. USL and CL are visceral ligaments, with mesentery-like structures containing vessels, nerves, connective tissue, and adipose tissue. PMID:22618209

Comparative morphology of changeable skin papillae in octopus and cuttlefish.

PubMed

Allen, Justine J; Bell, George R R; Kuzirian, Alan M; Velankar, Sachin S; Hanlon, Roger T

2014-04-01

A major component of cephalopod adaptive camouflage behavior has rarely been studied: their ability to change the three-dimensionality of their skin by morphing their malleable dermal papillae. Recent work has established that simple, conical papillae in cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) function as muscular hydrostats; that is, the muscles that extend a papilla also provide its structural support. We used brightfield and scanning electron microscopy to investigate and compare the functional morphology of nine types of papillae of different shapes, sizes and complexity in six species: S. officinalis small dorsal papillae, Octopus vulgaris small dorsal and ventral eye papillae, Macrotritopus defilippi dorsal eye papillae, Abdopus aculeatus major mantle papillae, O. bimaculoides arm, minor mantle, and dorsal eye papillae, and S. apama face ridge papillae. Most papillae have two sets of muscles responsible for extension: circular dermal erector muscles arranged in a concentric pattern to lift the papilla away from the body surface and horizontal dermal erector muscles to pull the papilla's perimeter toward its core and determine shape. A third set of muscles, retractors, appears to be responsible for pulling a papilla's apex down toward the body surface while stretching out its base. Connective tissue infiltrated with mucopolysaccharides assists with structural support. S. apama face ridge papillae are different: the contraction of erector muscles perpendicular to the ridge causes overlying tissues to buckle. In this case, mucopolysaccharide-rich connective tissue provides structural support. These six species possess changeable papillae that are diverse in size and shape, yet with one exception they share somewhat similar functional morphologies. Future research on papilla morphology, biomechanics and neural control in the many unexamined species of octopus and cuttlefish may uncover new principles of actuation in soft, flexible tissue.

Effect of houttuynia cordata aetherolea on adiponectin and connective tissue growth factor in a rat model of diabetes mellitus.

PubMed

Wang, Hai-Ying; Bao, Jun-Lu

2012-03-01

To determine the effect of Houttuynia cordata Aetherolea on connective tissue growth factor and adiponectin in a rat model of diabetes mellitus (DM). DM was induced in rats using streptozotocin (STZ) and high glucose-lipid animal feed. Animals were then treated with Houttuynia cordata Aetherolea for 8 weeks. Changes in connective tissue growth factor and adiponectin levels in rats were observed. Connective tissue growth factor and adiponectin levels in rats with DM improved after Houttuynia cordata Aetherolea treatment. Houttuynia cordata Aetherolea had a positive effect on rats with DM by reducing levels of connective tissue growth factor and increasing adiponectin levels.

Experiment K-6-02. Biomedical, biochemical and morphological alterations of muscle and dense, fibrous connective tissues during 14 days of spaceflight

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vailas, A.; Zernicke, R.; Grindeland, R.; Kaplanski, A.

1990-01-01

Findings on the connective tissue response to short-term space flight (12 days) are discussed. Specifically, data regarding the biochemical, biomechanical and morphological characteristics of selected connective tissues (humerus, vertebral body, tendon and skeletal muscle) of growing rats is given. Results are given concerning the humerus cortical bone, the vertebral bone, nutritional effects on bone biomechanical properties, and soft tense fiber connective tissue response.

Effects of large pressure amplitude low frequency noise in the parotid gland perivasculo-ductal connective tissue.

PubMed

Oliveira, Pedro; Brito, José; Mendes, João; da Fonseca, Jorge; Águas, Artur; Martins dos Santos, José

2013-01-01

In tissues and organs exposed to large pressure amplitude low frequency noise fibrosis occurs in the absence of inflammatory signs, which is thought to be a protective response. In the parotid gland the perivasculo-ductal connective tissue surrounds arteries, veins and the ductal tree. Perivasculo-ductal connective tissue is believed to function as a mechanical stabilizer of the glandular tissue. In order to quantify the proliferation of perivasculo-ductal connective tissue in large pressure amplitude low frequency noise-exposed rats we used sixty Wistar rats which were equally divided into 6 groups. One group kept in silence, and the remaining five exposed to continuous large pressure amplitude low frequency noise: g1-168h (1 week); g2-504h (3 weeks); g3-840h (5 weeks); g4-1512h (9 weeks); and g5-2184h (13 weeks). After exposure, parotid glands were removed and the perivasculo-ductal connective tissue area was measured in all groups. We applied ANOVA statistical analysis, using SPSS 13.0. The global trend is an increase in the average perivasculo-ductal connective tissue areas, that develops linearly and significantly with large pressure amplitude low frequency noise exposure time (p < 0.001). It has been suggested that the biological response to large pressure amplitude low frequency noise exposure is associated with the need to maintain structural integrity. The structural reinforcement would be achieved by increased perivasculo-ductal connective tissue. Hence, these results show that in response to large pressure amplitude low frequency noise exposure, rat parotid glands increase their perivasculo-ductal connective tissue.

[The relationship between the sympathetic nerves and immunocytes in the spleen].

PubMed

Saito, H

1991-02-01

Ever since Galen, the ancient Greek physician, said "Melancholic women develop disease more than sanguine women," it has been said that the mental condition affects the physical condition. However, there is hardly any scientific verification. About half a century ago, Selye (1936) proposed a relationship between stress and immune function, and it is becoming increasingly clear that the nervous system and immune system interact with each other. Also researchers have strongly hoped to demonstrate the existence of specific pathways by which immunocytes can be directly regulated by the nervous elements instead of by the humoral influence of immunomodulators. In this study, the author showed by electron microscopic observation how the immunocytes in the guinea pig spleen are directly innervated. The sustentacular supporting element of the guinea pig spleen is the connective tissue system which includes the capsulo-trabecular, peri-vascular and reticular systems. The latter system is composed of the outer sheath of the reticular cell or its cellular processes which have abundant microfilaments and the inner minute connective tissue space in which lamina densa-like material, collagenous fibrils, elastic fibers and nervous elements are present. The sympathetic adrenergic nerves for the spleen enter the organ, and scatter around the arterial walls. All components of the connective tissue system are continuous with each other, and the nervous elements appearing in the reticular system are the elongated ones from other connective tissue systems, especially peri-vascular connective tissue. Thus, the adrenergic nerves are more abundant in the white pulp, into which the central artery penetrates, than in the red pulp which arterioles or capillaries pass through. The minute connective tissue space of the reticular system may be called the noradrenalin (NA) canal because catecholamine released from the naked adrenergic nerve terminals in this tissue diffuses and is stored in this enclosed space. The reticular system in the spleen divides the parenchyma into small non-endothelial vascular spaces owing to its meshwork, and free mobile immunocytes, such as T-cells, B-cells and macrophages, stagnate in these spaces. This stagnation of the mobile immunocytes and the presence of the adrenergic nerves in the NA canals provide the chance for the immunocytes and nerves to meet each other in the following fashion; the reticular cell sheaths show the exposed phenomena owing to the contraction of the microfilament-rich reticular cell processes, caused by noradrenalin in the NA canal, and the nervous elements in the NA canals can face the nonendothelial vascular spaces where mobile immunocytes pass freely.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Gap junction systems in the rat vestibular labyrinth: immunohistochemical and ultrastructural analysis.

PubMed

Kikuchi, T; Adams, J C; Paul, D L; Kimura, R S

1994-09-01

The distribution of gap junctions within the vestibular labyrinth was investigated using immunohistochemistry and transmission electron microscopy. Connexin26-like immunoreactivity was observed among supporting cells in each vestibular sensory epithelium. Reaction product was also present in the transitional epithelium of each vestibular endorgan and in the planum semilunatum of crista ampullaris. No connexin26-like immunoreactivity was observed among thin wall epithelial cells or among vestibular dark cells. In addition, fibrocytes within vestibular connective tissue were positively immunostained. Reaction product was also detected in the melanocyte area just beneath dark cells. Ultrastructural observations indicated that a gap junction network of vestibular supporting cells extends to the transitional epithelium and planum semilunatum and forms an isolated epithelial cell gap junction system in each vestibular endorgan. In contrast, no gap junctions were found among wall epithelial cells or among dark cells. Fibrocytes and melanocytes were coupled by gap junctions and belong to the connective tissue cell gap junction system, which is continuous throughout the vestibular system and the cochlea. The possible functional significance of these gap junction systems is discussed.

How are cancer and connective tissue diseases related to sarcoidosis?

PubMed

Chopra, Amit; Judson, Marc A

2015-09-01

Several studies have suggested an association between sarcoidosis and cancer, and between sarcoidosis and connective tissue diseases (CTDs). In this review, we discuss the evidence supporting and refuting these associations. In terms of a cancer risk in sarcoidosis patients, the data are somewhat conflicting but generally show a very small increased risk. The data supporting an association between sarcoidosis and CTD are not as robust as for cancer. However, it appears that scleroderma is the CTD most strongly associated with sarcoidosis. There are several important clinical and research-related implications of the association of sarcoidosis and CTDs. First, rigorous efforts should be made to exclude alternative causes for granulomatous inflammation before establishing a diagnosis of sarcoidosis. Second, the association between sarcoidosis and both cancer and CTDs may yield important insights into the immunopathogenesis of all three diseases. Finally, these data provide insight in answering a common question asked by sarcoidosis patients, 'Am I at an increased risk of developing cancer?' We believe that although there is an increased (relative) risk of cancer in sarcoidosis patients compared with the general population, that increased risk is quite small (low absolute risk).

Vesicoureteral reflux and the extracellular matrix connection

PubMed Central

Tokhmafshan, Fatima; Brophy, Patrick D.; Gbadegesin, Rasheed A.

2017-01-01

Primary vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) is a common pediatric condition due to a developmental defect in the ureterovesical junction. The prevalence of VUR among individuals with connective tissue disorders, as well as the importance of the ureter and bladder wall musculature for the anti-reflux mechanism, suggest that defects in the extracellular matrix (ECM) within the ureterovesical junction may result in VUR. This review will discuss the function of the smooth muscle and its supporting ECM microenvironment with respect to VUR, and explore the association of VUR with mutations in ECM-related genes. PMID:27139901

Connective tissue diseases, multimorbidity and the ageing lung.

PubMed

Spagnolo, Paolo; Cordier, Jean-François; Cottin, Vincent

2016-05-01

Connective tissue diseases encompass a wide range of heterogeneous disorders characterised by immune-mediated chronic inflammation often leading to tissue damage, collagen deposition and possible loss of function of the target organ. Lung involvement is a common complication of connective tissue diseases. Depending on the underlying disease, various thoracic compartments can be involved but interstitial lung disease is a major contributor to morbidity and mortality. Interstitial lung disease, pulmonary hypertension or both are found most commonly in systemic sclerosis. In the elderly, the prevalence of connective tissue diseases continues to rise due to both longer life expectancy and more effective and better-tolerated treatments. In the geriatric population, connective tissue diseases are almost invariably accompanied by age-related comorbidities, and disease- and treatment-related complications, which contribute to the significant morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions, and complicate treatment decision-making. Connective tissue diseases in the elderly represent a growing concern for healthcare providers and an increasing burden of global health resources worldwide. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in the regulation of the immune functions in the elderly and evidence-based guidelines specifically designed for this patient population are instrumental to improving the management of connective tissue diseases in elderly patients. Copyright ©ERS 2016.

Advanced Engineering Strategies for Periodontal Complex Regeneration.

PubMed

Park, Chan Ho; Kim, Kyoung-Hwa; Lee, Yong-Moo; Seol, Yang-Jo

2016-01-18

The regeneration and integration of multiple tissue types is critical for efforts to restore the function of musculoskeletal complex. In particular, the neogenesis of periodontal constructs for systematic tooth-supporting functions is a current challenge due to micron-scaled tissue compartmentalization, oblique/perpendicular orientations of fibrous connective tissues to the tooth root surface and the orchestration of multiple regenerated tissues. Although there have been various biological and biochemical achievements, periodontal tissue regeneration remains limited and unpredictable. The purpose of this paper is to discuss current advanced engineering approaches for periodontal complex formations; computer-designed, customized scaffolding architectures; cell sheet technology-based multi-phasic approaches; and patient-specific constructs using bioresorbable polymeric material and 3-D printing technology for clinical application. The review covers various advanced technologies for periodontal complex regeneration and state-of-the-art therapeutic avenues in periodontal tissue engineering.

Functional anatomy of the levator palpebrae superioris muscle and its connective tissue system.

PubMed Central

Ettl, A; Priglinger, S; Kramer, J; Koornneef, L

1996-01-01

AIMS/BACKGROUND: The connective tissue system of the levator palpebrae superioris muscle (LPS) consists of the septa surrounding its muscle sheath, the superior transverse ligament (STL) commonly referred to as 'Whitnall's ligament' and the common sheath which is the fascia between the LPS and the superior rectus muscle (SRM). The anterior band-like component of the common sheath is called transverse superior fascial expansion (TSFE) of the SRM and LPS. It mainly extends from the connective tissue of the trochlea to the fascia of the lacrimal gland. A detailed description of the relation between the LPS and its connective tissue is presented. Furthermore, the course of the LPS in the orbit is described. The study was conducted to provide a morphological basis for biomechanical and clinical considerations regarding ptosis surgery. METHODS: Postmortem dissections were performed in 16 orbits from eight cadavers. The microscopical anatomy was demonstrated in six formalin preserved orbits from six cadavers which had been sectioned in the frontal and sagittal plane and stained with haematoxylin and azophloxin. Surface coil magnetic resonance imaging in the sagittal and coronal plane was performed in five orbits from five normal volunteers using a T1 weighted spin echo sequence. RESULTS: The STL and the TSFE surround the LPS to form a fascial sleeve around the muscle which has attachments to the medial and lateral orbital wall. The TSFE, which is thicker than the STL, blends with Tenon's capsule. The STL and the fascial sheath of the LPS muscle are suspended from the orbital roof by a framework of radial connective tissue septa. MR images show that the TSFE is located between the anterior third of the superior rectus muscle and the segment of the LPS muscle where it changes its course from upwards to downwards. In this area, the LPS reaches its highest point in the orbit (culmination point). The culmination point is located a few millimetres posterior to the equator and superior to the globe. CONCLUSION: Whitnall's ligament can be considered to consist of two distinct parts--the TSFE inferior to the LPS and the STL superior to the LPS. Since the medial and lateral main attachments of Whitnall's ligament are situated inferior to the level of the culmination point of the LPS, the ligament itself is unlikely to suspend the levator muscle. However, a suspension of the LPS may be achieved by the radial connective tissue septa of the superior orbit. The TSFE in connection with the globe may have an additional supporting function. The elasticity of Whitnall's ligament and its connections with highly elastic structures including Tenon's capsule, may provide the morphological substrate for the previously proposed passive (that is, without orbicularis action) lowering of the lid during downward saccades. Images PMID:8949713

Objective breast tissue image classification using Quantitative Transmission ultrasound tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malik, Bilal; Klock, John; Wiskin, James; Lenox, Mark

2016-12-01

Quantitative Transmission Ultrasound (QT) is a powerful and emerging imaging paradigm which has the potential to perform true three-dimensional image reconstruction of biological tissue. Breast imaging is an important application of QT and allows non-invasive, non-ionizing imaging of whole breasts in vivo. Here, we report the first demonstration of breast tissue image classification in QT imaging. We systematically assess the ability of the QT images’ features to differentiate between normal breast tissue types. The three QT features were used in Support Vector Machines (SVM) classifiers, and classification of breast tissue as either skin, fat, glands, ducts or connective tissue was demonstrated with an overall accuracy of greater than 90%. Finally, the classifier was validated on whole breast image volumes to provide a color-coded breast tissue volume. This study serves as a first step towards a computer-aided detection/diagnosis platform for QT.

Failure of matrix metalloproteinase-9 dimer induction by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate in normal human cell lines.

PubMed

Waheed Roomi, Mohd; Kalinovsky, Tatiana; Rath, Matthias; Niedzwiecki, Aleksandra

2015-06-01

Increasing experimental and clinical data has identified an association between increased levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and shortened patient survival, cancer progression and metastasis. MMP-9 has a significant role in tumor cell invasion and metastasis, as it digests the basement membrane and components of the extracellular matrix. MMP-9 is secreted in either a monomeric or dimeric form. Although limited evidence exists concerning MMP-9 dimers, certain studies have demonstrated that the dimer is associated with aggressive tumor progression. This is believed to be due to the fact that cellular migration depends upon the MMP-9 dimer, and not the monomer. Our previous study revealed that cancer cell MMP-9 dimer secretion patterns could be divided into different categories, and that high MMP-9 and MMP-9 dimer secretion levels were correlated with the most aggressive cancer cell lines. It has been established that signal transduction pathways and cytokines, including those activated by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), regulate the expression of MMPs. The aim of the present study was to analyze the expression patterns of MMP-2, MMP-9 and MMP-9 dimer in normal human cells from a number of tissues treated with PMA. Muscle, epithelial and connective tissues were selected for use in the present study, since adenosarcomas, carcinomas and sarcomas are derived from these tissue types, respectively. The cell lines were first cultured in 24-well tissue culture plates containing recommended media that was supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum and antibiotics. When at confluency, the cells were washed and fresh medium was added. In addition, a parallel set of cultures was treated with PMA. Subsequent to a 24-h incubation period, the media were collected and analyzed using gelatinase zymography for the expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 monomer and dimer forms. The results revealed that the cellular expression of MMP-2 and MMP-9 was dependent upon the primary tissue subtype. All cell lines, regardless of tissue origin, expressed MMP-2. PMA induced the expression of MMP-9 in muscle tissue, glandular epithelia and supportive connective tissue cell lines. By contrast, cell lines of endothelial origin and proper connective tissue were insensitive to treatment with PMA. MMP-9 dimer secretion was not observed in any of the cell lines, which indicated that cellular migration is not supported by these cells.

Staged Hard and Soft Tissue Reconstruction Followed by Implant Supported Restoration in the Aesthetic Zone: A Case Report.

PubMed

Parthasarathy, Harinath; Ramachandran, Lakshmi; Tadepalli, Anupama; Ponnaiyan, Deepa

2017-04-01

Alveolar ridge deficiency is a common clinical consequence following tooth loss due to chronic periodontitis complicating ideal implant placement. Advanced hard and soft tissue augmentation procedures have been developed in the recent past with predictable clinical outcomes. A male patient presented with a Grade III mobile upper right central incisor associated with advanced bone loss and soft tissue deficit. Following extraction of tooth #11, socket augmentation was done using an autogenous cortico-cancellous block graft and subsequent soft tissue augmentation was done with palatal connective tissue graft. At the end of six months, a tapered self tapping implant fixture was placed with adequate primary stability and after eight weeks, second stage implant surgery was done with the Misch technique in order to recreate papillae and the implant was prosthetically restored. The alveolar ridge was adequately recontoured following the staged surgical protocol. The implant was well integrated at the end of 15 months. Execution of sequential surgical procedures in a highly deficient edentulous site made it possible to achieve of optimal pink and white aesthetics with stable implant supported fixed prosthesis.

NeuroLines: A Subway Map Metaphor for Visualizing Nanoscale Neuronal Connectivity.

PubMed

Al-Awami, Ali K; Beyer, Johanna; Strobelt, Hendrik; Kasthuri, Narayanan; Lichtman, Jeff W; Pfister, Hanspeter; Hadwiger, Markus

2014-12-01

We present NeuroLines, a novel visualization technique designed for scalable detailed analysis of neuronal connectivity at the nanoscale level. The topology of 3D brain tissue data is abstracted into a multi-scale, relative distance-preserving subway map visualization that allows domain scientists to conduct an interactive analysis of neurons and their connectivity. Nanoscale connectomics aims at reverse-engineering the wiring of the brain. Reconstructing and analyzing the detailed connectivity of neurons and neurites (axons, dendrites) will be crucial for understanding the brain and its development and diseases. However, the enormous scale and complexity of nanoscale neuronal connectivity pose big challenges to existing visualization techniques in terms of scalability. NeuroLines offers a scalable visualization framework that can interactively render thousands of neurites, and that supports the detailed analysis of neuronal structures and their connectivity. We describe and analyze the design of NeuroLines based on two real-world use-cases of our collaborators in developmental neuroscience, and investigate its scalability to large-scale neuronal connectivity data.

Mueller matrix approach for probing multifractality in the underlying anisotropic connective tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Das, Nandan Kumar; Dey, Rajib; Ghosh, Nirmalya

2016-09-01

Spatial variation of refractive index (RI) in connective tissues exhibits multifractality, which encodes useful morphological and ultrastructural information about the disease. We present a spectral Mueller matrix (MM)-based approach in combination with multifractal detrended fluctuation analysis (MFDFA) to exclusively pick out the signature of the underlying connective tissue multifractality through the superficial epithelium layer. The method is based on inverse analysis on selected spectral scattering MM elements encoding the birefringence information on the anisotropic connective tissue. The light scattering spectra corresponding to the birefringence carrying MM elements are then subjected to the Born approximation-based Fourier domain preprocessing to extract ultrastructural RI fluctuations of anisotropic tissue. The extracted RI fluctuations are subsequently analyzed via MFDFA to yield the multifractal tissue parameters. The approach was experimentally validated on a simple tissue model comprising of TiO2 as scatterers of the superficial isotropic layer and rat tail collagen as an underlying anisotropic layer. Finally, the method enabled probing of precancer-related subtle alterations in underlying connective tissue ultrastructural multifractality from intact tissues.

Identification of tumor cells infiltrating into connective tissue in esophageal cancer by multiphoton microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Jian; Jiang, Liwei; Kang, Deyong; Wu, Xuejing; Xu, Meifang; Zhuo, Shuangmu; Zhu, Xiaoqin; Lin, Jiangbo; Chen, Jianxin

2016-10-01

Esophageal cancer is one of the most common malignancies of the gastrointestinal cancers and carries poorer prognosis than other gastrointestinal cancers. In general practice, the depth of tumor infiltration in esophageal wall is crucial to establishing appropriate treatment plan which is established by detecting the tumor infiltration depth. Connective tissue is one of the main structures that form the esophageal wall. So, identification of tumor cells infiltrating into connective tissue is helping for detecting the tumor infiltration depth. Our aim is to evaluate whether multiphoton microscopy (MPM) can be used to detect tumor cells infiltrating into connective tissue in the esophageal cancer. MPM is well-suited for real-time detecting morphologic and cellular changes in fresh tissues since many endogenous fluorophores of fresh tissues are excited through two-photon excited fluorescence (TPEF) and second harmonic generation (SHG). In this work, microstructure of tumor cells and connective tissue are first studied. Then, morphological changes of collagen fibers after the infiltration of tumor cells are shown. These results show that MPM has the ability to detect tumor cells infiltrating into connective tissue in the esophageal cancer. In the future, MPM may be a promising imaging technique for detecting tumor cells in esophageal cancer.

Cells of the connective tissue differentiate and migrate into pollen sacs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Iqbal, M. C. M.; Wijesekara, Kolitha B.

2002-01-01

In angiosperms, archesporial cells in the anther primordium undergo meiosis to form haploid pollen, the sole occupants of anther sacs. Anther sacs are held together by a matrix of parenchyma cells, the connective tissue. Cells of the connective tissue are not known to differentiate. We report the differentiation of parenchyma cells in the connective tissue of two Gordonia species into pollen-like structures (described as pseudopollen), which migrate into the anther sacs before dehiscence. Pollen and pseudopollen were distinguishable by morphology and staining. Pollen were tricolpate to spherical while pseudopollen were less rigid and transparent with a ribbed surface. Both types were different in size, shape, staining and surface architecture. The ratio of the number of pseudopollen to pollen was 1:3. During ontogeny in the connective tissue, neither cell division nor tetrad formation was observed and hence pseudopollen were presumed to be diploid. Only normal pollen germinated on a germination medium. Fixed preparations in time seemed to indicate that pseudopollen migrate from the connective tissue into the anther sac.

Alveolar ridge augmentation by connective tissue grafting using a pouch method and modified connective tissue technique: A prospective study.

PubMed

Agarwal, Ashish; Gupta, Narinder Dev

2015-01-01

Localized alveolar ridge defect may create physiological and pathological problems. Developments in surgical techniques have made it simpler to change the configuration of a ridge to create a more aesthetic and more easily cleansable shape. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of alveolar ridge augmentation using a subepithelial connective tissue graft in pouch and modified connective tissue graft technique. In this randomized, double blind, parallel and prospective study, 40 non-smoker individuals with 40 class III alveolar ridge defects in maxillary anterior were randomly divided in two groups. Group I received modified connective tissue graft, while group II were treated with subepithelial connective tissue graft in pouch technique. The defect size was measured in its horizontal and vertical dimension by utilizing a periodontal probe in a stone cast at base line, after 3 months, and 6 months post surgically. Analysis of variance and Bonferroni post-hoc test were used for statistical analysis. A two-tailed P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Mean values in horizontal width after 6 months were 4.70 ± 0.87 mm, and 4.05 ± 0.89 mm for group I and II, respectively. Regarding vertical heights, obtained mean values were 4.75 ± 0.97 mm and 3.70 ± 0.92 mm for group I and group II, respectively. Within the limitations of this study, connective tissue graft proposed significantly more improvement as compare to connective tissue graft in pouch.

Structure and function of the digestive system of solen grandis dunker

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheng, Xiuzhen; Zhan, Wenbin; Ren, Sulian

2003-10-01

Structure and function of the digestive system of a bivalve mollusc, Solen grandis, were studied using light microscopy and histochemical methods. The wall of digestive tube consists of four layers: the mucosal epithelium, connective tissue, muscular and fibrosa or serosa (only in the portion of rectum) from the inner to the outer. The ciliated columnar epithelial cells, dispersed by cup-shaped mucous cells, rest on a thin base membrane. There are abundant blood spaces in connective tissue layer. The digestive diverticula are composed of multi-branched duct and digestive tubules. The digestive tubules are lined with digestive and basophilic secretory cells, and surrounded by a layer of smooth muscle fibers and connective tissues. Activities of acid and alkaline phosphatases, esterase and lipase are detected in the digestive cells, and the epithelia of stomach and intestine, suggesting that these cells are capable of intracellular digesting of food materials and absorbing. Besides, acid phosphatase and esterase activities are present in the posterior portion of esophagus. Phagocytes are abundant in blood spaces and the lumens of stomach and intestine, containing brown granules derived from the engulfed food materials. The present work indicates that phagocytes play important roles in ingestion and digestion of food materials, which is supported as well by the activities of acid phosphatase, esterase and lipase detected in blood spaces.

Hindlimb unloading alters ligament healing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Provenzano, Paolo P.; Martinez, Daniel A.; Grindeland, Richard E.; Dwyer, Kelley W.; Turner, Joanne; Vailas, Arthur C.; Vanderby, Ray Jr

2003-01-01

We investigated the hypothesis that hindlimb unloading inhibits healing in fibrous connective tissue such as ligament. Male rats were assigned to 3- and 7-wk treatment groups with three subgroups each: sham control, ambulatory healing, and hindlimb-suspended healing. Ambulatory and suspended animals underwent surgical rupture of their medial collateral ligaments, whereas sham surgeries were performed on control animals. After 3 or 7 wk, mechanical and/or morphological properties were measured in ligament, muscle, and bone. During mechanical testing, most suspended ligaments failed in the scar region, indicating the greatest impairment was to ligament and not to bone-ligament insertion. Ligament testing revealed significant reductions in maximum force, ultimate stress, elastic modulus, and low-load properties in suspended animals. In addition, femoral mineral density, femoral strength, gastrocnemius mass, and tibialis anterior mass were significantly reduced. Microscopy revealed abnormal scar formation and cell distribution in suspended ligaments with extracellular matrix discontinuities and voids between misaligned, but well-formed, collagen fiber bundles. Hence, stress levels from ambulation appear unnecessary for formation of fiber bundles yet required for collagen to form structurally competent continuous fibers. Results support our hypothesis that hindlimb unloading impairs healing of fibrous connective tissue. In addition, this study provides compelling morphological evidence explaining the altered structure-function relationship in load-deprived healing connective tissue.

Asymmetric stem-cell divisions define the architecture of human oesophageal epithelium.

PubMed

Seery, J P; Watt, F M

2000-11-16

In spite of its clinical importance, little is known about the stem-cell compartment of the human oesophageal epithelium [1,2]. The epithelial basal layer consists of two distinct zones, one overlying the papillae of the supporting connective tissue (PBL) and the other covering the interpapillary zone (IBL) [3]. In examining the oesophageal basal layer, we found that proliferating cells were rare in the IBL and a high proportion of mitoses were asymmetrical, giving rise to one basal daughter and one suprabasal, differentiating daughter. In the PBL, mitoses were more frequent and predominantly symmetrical. The IBL was characterised by low expression of ?1 integrins and high expression of the beta2 laminin chain. By combining fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) with in vitro clonal analysis, we obtained evidence that the IBL is enriched for stem cells. A normal oesophageal epithelium with asymmetric divisions was reconstituted on denuded oesophageal connective tissue. In contrast, asymmetric divisions were not sustained on skin connective tissue, and the epithelium formed resembled epidermis. We propose that stem cells located in the IBL give rise to differentiating daughters through asymmetric divisions in response to cues from the underlying basement membrane. Until now, stem-cell fate in stratified squamous epithelia was believed to be achieved largely through populational asymmetry [4-6].

Stuck in gear: age-related loss of variable gearing in skeletal muscle.

PubMed

Holt, Natalie C; Danos, Nicole; Roberts, Thomas J; Azizi, Emanuel

2016-04-01

Skeletal muscles power a broad diversity of animal movements, despite only being able to produce high forces over a limited range of velocities. Pennate muscles use a range of gear ratios, the ratio of muscle shortening velocity to fiber shortening velocity, to partially circumvent these force-velocity constraints. Muscles operate with a high gear ratio at low forces; fibers rotate to greater angles of pennation, enhancing velocity but compromising force. At higher forces, muscles operate with a lower gear ratio; fibers rotate little so limiting muscle shortening velocity, but helping to preserve force. This ability to shift gears is thought to be due to the interplay of contractile force and connective tissue constraints. In order to test this hypothesis, gear ratios were determined in the medial gastrocnemius muscles of both healthy young rats, and old rats where the interaction between contractile and connective tissue properties was assumed to be disrupted. Muscle fiber and aponeurosis stiffness increased with age (P<0.05) from 19.1±5.0 kPa and 188.5±24.2 MPa, respectively, in young rats to 39.1±4.2 kPa and 328.0±48.3 MPa in old rats, indicating a mechanical change in the interaction between contractile and connective tissues. Gear ratio decreased with increasing force in young (P<0.001) but not old (P=0.72) muscles, indicating that variable gearing is lost in old muscle. These findings support the hypothesis that variable gearing results from the interaction between contractile and connective tissues and suggest novel explanations for the decline in muscle performance with age. © 2016. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

The Rationale for Joint Mobilization.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Burkhardt, Sandy

This paper presents an overview of the functions of connective tissue and the mechanisms of joint injury and contracture formation in relation to therapeutic exercise. The components of connective tissue operation are explained, including fibroblasts, macrophages, plasma cells, and collagen. An examination of the histology of connective tissue as…

High Spatial Resolution Imaging Mass Spectrometry of Human Optic Nerve Lipids and Proteins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Anderson, David M. G.; Spraggins, Jeffrey M.; Rose, Kristie L.; Schey, Kevin L.

2015-06-01

The human optic nerve carries signals from the retina to the visual cortex of the brain. Each optic nerve is comprised of approximately one million nerve fibers that are organized into bundles of 800-1200 fibers surrounded by connective tissue and supportive glial cells. Damage to the optic nerve contributes to a number of blinding diseases including: glaucoma, neuromyelitis optica, optic neuritis, and neurofibromatosis; however, the molecular mechanisms of optic nerve damage and death are incompletely understood. Herein we present high spatial resolution MALDI imaging mass spectrometry (IMS) analysis of lipids and proteins to define the molecular anatomy of the human optic nerve. The localization of a number of lipids was observed in discrete anatomical regions corresponding to myelinated and unmyelinated nerve regions as well as to supporting connective tissue, glial cells, and blood vessels. A protein fragment from vimentin, a known intermediate filament marker for astrocytes, was observed surrounding nerved fiber bundles in the lamina cribrosa region. S100B was also found in supporting glial cell regions in the prelaminar region, and the hemoglobin alpha subunit was observed in blood vessel areas. The molecular anatomy of the optic nerve defined by MALDI IMS provides a firm foundation to study biochemical changes in blinding human diseases.

Microscopic anatomy of the visceral fasciae.

PubMed

Stecco, Carla; Sfriso, Maria Martina; Porzionato, Andrea; Rambaldo, Anna; Albertin, Giovanna; Macchi, Veronica; De Caro, Raffaele

2017-07-01

The term 'visceral fascia' is a general term used to describe the fascia lying immediately beneath the mesothelium of the serosa, together with that immediately surrounding the viscera, but there are many types of visceral fasciae. The aim of this paper was to identify the features they have in common and their specialisations. The visceral fascia of the abdomen (corresponding to the connective tissue lying immediately beneath the mesothelium of the parietal peritoneum), thorax (corresponding to the connective tissue lying immediately beneath the mesothelium of the parietal pleura), lung (corresponding to the connective tissue under the mesothelium of the visceral pleura), liver (corresponding to the connective tissue under the mesothelium of the visceral peritoneum), kidney (corresponding to the Gerota fascia), the oesophagus (corresponding to its adventitia) and heart (corresponding to the fibrous layer of the pericardial sac) from eight fresh cadavers were sampled and analysed with histological and immunohistochemical stains to evaluate collagen and elastic components and innervation. Although the visceral fasciae make up a well-defined layer of connective tissue, the thickness, percentage of elastic fibres and innervation vary among the different viscera. In particular, the fascia of the lung has a mean thickness of 134 μm (± 21), that of heart 792 μm (± 132), oesophagus 105 μm (± 10), liver 131 μm (± 18), Gerota fascia 1009 μm (± 105) and the visceral fascia of the abdomen 987 μm (± 90). The greatest number of elastic fibres (9.79%) was found in the adventitia of the oesophagus. The connective layers lying immediately outside the mesothelium of the pleura and peritoneum also have many elastic fibres (4.98% and 4.52%, respectively), whereas the pericardium and Gerota fascia have few (0.27% and 1.38%). In the pleura, peritoneum and adventitia of the oesophagus, elastic fibres form a well-defined layer, corresponding to the elastic lamina, while in the other cases they are thinner and scattered in the connective tissue. Collagen fibres also show precise spatial organisation, being arranged in several layers. In each layer, all the fibrous bundles are parallel with each other, but change direction among layers. Loose connective tissue rich in elastic fibres is found between contiguous fibrous layers. Unmyelinated nerve fibres were found in all samples, but myelinated fibres were only found in some fasciae, such as those of the liver and heart, and the visceral fascia of the abdomen. According to these findings, we propose distinguishing the visceral fasciae into two large groups. The first group includes all the fasciae closely related to the individual organ and giving shape to it, supporting the parenchyma; these are thin, elastic and very well innervated. The second group comprises all the fibrous sheets forming the compartments for the organs and also connecting the internal organs to the musculoskeletal system. These fasciae are thick, less elastic and less innervated, but they contain larger and myelinated nerves. We propose to call the first type of fasciae 'investing fasciae', and the second type 'insertional fasciae'. © 2017 Anatomical Society.

Imaging of connective tissue diseases of the head and neck

PubMed Central

2016-01-01

We review the imaging appearance of connective tissue diseases of the head and neck. Bilateral sialadenitis and dacryoadenitis are seen in Sjögren’s syndrome; ankylosis of the temporo-mandibular joint with sclerosis of the crico-arytenoid joint are reported in rheumatoid arthritis and lupus panniculitis with atypical infection are reported in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Relapsing polychondritis shows subglottic stenosis, prominent ear and saddle nose; progressive systemic sclerosis shows osteolysis of the mandible, fibrosis of the masseter muscle with calcinosis of the subcutaneous tissue and dermatomyositis/polymyositis shows condylar erosions and autoimmune thyroiditis. Vascular thrombosis is reported in antiphospholipid antibodies syndrome; cervical lymphadenopathy is seen in adult-onset Still’s disease, and neuropathy with thyroiditis reported in mixed connective tissue disorder. Imaging is important to detect associated malignancy with connective tissue disorders. Correlation of the imaging findings with demographic data and clinical findings are important for the diagnosis of connective tissue disorders. PMID:26988082

Cerebriform connective tissue nevus of lumbar.

PubMed

Chen, Jinbo; Chen, Liuqing; Duan, Yiqun; Li, Dongsheng; Dong, Bilin

2015-02-01

Connective tissue nevi represents a kind of hamartoma, and coalescence of the lesions in a cerebriform mode in the lumbar region without Proteus syndrome is rarely seen. Here, we report a 26-year-old woman presenting with nodules and plaques in her left lumbar region of 26 years in duration. Histopathological examination and Masson-trichrome stain showed increased dermal collagen bundles in a haphazard array. The diagnosis of connective tissue nevi was made. This is the first case report on cerebriform connective tissue nevi without Proteus syndrome in the lumbar region. © 2014 Japanese Dermatological Association.

The peri-esophageal connective tissue layers and related compartments: visualization by histology and magnetic resonance imaging.

PubMed

Weijs, T J; Goense, L; van Rossum, P S N; Meijer, G J; van Lier, A L H M W; Wessels, F J; Braat, M N G; Lips, I M; Ruurda, J P; Cuesta, M A; van Hillegersberg, R; Bleys, R L A W

2017-02-01

An organized layer of connective tissue coursing from aorta to esophagus was recently discovered in the mediastinum. The relations with other peri-esophageal fascias have not been described and it is unclear whether this layer can be visualized by non-invasive imaging. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive description of the peri-esophageal fascias and determine whether the connective tissue layer between aorta and esophagus can be visualized by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). First, T2-weighted MRI scanning of the thoracic region of a human cadaver was performed, followed by histological examination of transverse sections of the peri-esophageal tissue between the thyroid gland and the diaphragm. Secondly, pretreatment motion-triggered MRI scans were prospectively obtained from 34 patients with esophageal cancer and independently assessed by two radiologists for the presence and location of the connective tissue layer coursing from aorta to esophagus. A layer of connective tissue coursing from the anterior aspect of the descending aorta to the left lateral aspect of the esophagus, with a thin extension coursing to the right pleural reflection, was visualized ex vivo in the cadaver on MR images, macroscopic tissue sections, and after histologic staining, as well as on in vivo MR images. The layer connecting esophagus and aorta was named 'aorto-esophageal ligament' and the layer connecting aorta to the right pleural reflection 'aorto-pleural ligament'. These connective tissue layers divides the posterior mediastinum in an anterior compartment containing the esophagus, (carinal) lymph nodes and vagus nerve, and a posterior compartment, containing the azygos vein, thoracic duct and occasionally lymph nodes. The anterior compartment was named 'peri-esophageal compartment' and the posterior compartment 'para-aortic compartment'. The connective tissue layers superior to the aortic arch and at the diaphragm corresponded with the currently available anatomic descriptions. This study confirms the existence of the previously described connective tissue layer coursing from aorta to esophagus, challenging the long-standing paradigm that no such structure exists. A comprehensive, detailed description of the peri-esophageal fascias is provided and, furthermore, it is shown that the connective tissue layer coursing from aorta to esophagus can be visualized in vivo by MRI. © 2016 Anatomical Society.

Association between antinuclear antibody titers and connective tissue diseases in a Rheumatology Department.

PubMed

Menor Almagro, Raúl; Rodríguez Gutiérrez, Juan Francisco; Martín-Martínez, María Auxiliadora; Rodríguez Valls, María José; Aranda Valera, Concepción; de la Iglesia Salgado, José Luís

To determine the dilution titles at antinuclear antibodies (ANA) by indirect immunofluorescence observed in cell substrate HEp-2 and its association with the diagnosis of systemic connective tissue disease in ANA test requested by a Rheumatology Unit. Samples of patients attended for the first time in the rheumatology unit, without prior ANA test, between January 2010 and December 2012 were selected. The dilution titers, immunofluorescence patterns and antigen specificity were recorded. In January 2015 the diagnosis of the patients were evaluated and classified in systemic disease connective tissue (systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, systemic sclerosis, undifferentiated connective, antiphospholipid syndrome, mixed connective tissue and inflammatory myophaty) or not systemic disease connective tissue. A total of 1282 ANA tests requested by the Rheumatology Unit in subjects without previous study, 293 were positive, predominance of women (81.9%). Patients with systemic connective tissue disease were recorded 105, and 188 without systemic connective tissue disease. For 1/640 dilutions the positive predictive value in the connective was 73.3% compared to 26.6% of non-connective, and for values ≥1/1,280 85% versus 15% respectively. When performing the multivariate analysis we observed a positive association between 1/320 dilution OR 3.069 (95% CI: 1.237-7.614; P=.016), 1/640 OR 12.570 (95% CI: 3.659-43.187; P=.000) and ≥1/1,280 OR 42.136 (95% CI: 8.604-206.345; P=.000). These results show association titles dilution ≥1/320 in ANA's first test requested by a Rheumatology Unit with patients with systemic connective tissue disease. The VPP in these patients was higher than previous studies requested by other medical specialties. This may indicate the importance of application of the test in a targeted way. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier España, S.L.U. and Sociedad Española de Reumatología y Colegio Mexicano de Reumatología. All rights reserved.

Alveolar ridge augmentation by connective tissue grafting using a pouch method and modified connective tissue technique: A prospective study

PubMed Central

Agarwal, Ashish; Gupta, Narinder Dev

2015-01-01

Background: Localized alveolar ridge defect may create physiological and pathological problems. Developments in surgical techniques have made it simpler to change the configuration of a ridge to create a more aesthetic and more easily cleansable shape. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of alveolar ridge augmentation using a subepithelial connective tissue graft in pouch and modified connective tissue graft technique. Materials and Methods: In this randomized, double blind, parallel and prospective study, 40 non-smoker individuals with 40 class III alveolar ridge defects in maxillary anterior were randomly divided in two groups. Group I received modified connective tissue graft, while group II were treated with subepithelial connective tissue graft in pouch technique. The defect size was measured in its horizontal and vertical dimension by utilizing a periodontal probe in a stone cast at base line, after 3 months, and 6 months post surgically. Analysis of variance and Bonferroni post-hoc test were used for statistical analysis. A two-tailed P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: Mean values in horizontal width after 6 months were 4.70 ± 0.87 mm, and 4.05 ± 0.89 mm for group I and II, respectively. Regarding vertical heights, obtained mean values were 4.75 ± 0.97 mm and 3.70 ± 0.92 mm for group I and group II, respectively. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, connective tissue graft proposed significantly more improvement as compare to connective tissue graft in pouch. PMID:26759591

[Nailfold capillaroscopy in the evaluation of Raynaud's phenomenon and undifferentiated connective tissue disease].

PubMed

Cortes, Sara; Clemente-Coelho, Paulo

2008-01-01

Microvascular abnormalities involved in the pathogenic mechanism of several connective tissue disorders can be detected by nailfold capillaroscopy. Evaluation of the interest of nailfold capillaroscopy results in patients with Raynaud s phenomenon or undifferentiated connective tissue disease and their correlation with diagnostic and therapeutical evolution. Selection of capillaroscopic and laboratory results of patients with the diagnosis of Raynaud s phenomenon (without defined connective tissue disease) or undifferentiated connective tissue disease. Evaluation of the present diagnosis and treatment comparing with the ones existed at the time of capillaroscopy performance. 80 patients were enrolled with an age of 51.4+/-14.3 years (mean+/-SD) 78 females (97.5%) with Raynaud s phenomenon and undifferentiated connective tissue disease 27 patients (33.8%); Raynaud s Phenomenon 46 patients (57.5%); undifferentiated connective tissue disease 7 patients (8.7%). The capillaroscopic results were normal 30 patients (37.5%); minor changes tortuosity enlargement 16 patients (20.0%) major changes 34 patients (42.5%) hemorrhages 25 patients (31.3%) megacapillaries 26 patients (32.5%) avascular areas 3 patients (3.8%). The introduction of new treatments after the capillaroscopy occurred in 32 patients (40.0%) and a new diagnosis was done in 39 patients (48.8%). Major changes in capillaroscopy correlated with the change of diagnosis and the introduction of a new treatment (p<0.0001). Nailfold capillaroscopy performed in patients with isolated Raynaud s phenomenon or undifferentiated connective tissue disease has a role in the prognostic evaluation related to the possibility of an evolution of the diagnosis or to the need of the introduction of new treatments.

Collagenous Extracellular Matrix Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering: Lessons from the Common Sea Urchin Tissue.

PubMed

Goh, Kheng Lim; Holmes, David F

2017-04-25

Scaffolds for tissue engineering application may be made from a collagenous extracellular matrix (ECM) of connective tissues because the ECM can mimic the functions of the target tissue. The primary sources of collagenous ECM material are calf skin and bone. However, these sources are associated with the risk of having bovine spongiform encephalopathy or transmissible spongiform encephalopathy. Alternative sources for collagenous ECM materials may be derived from livestock, e.g., pigs, and from marine animals, e.g., sea urchins. Collagenous ECM of the sea urchin possesses structural features and mechanical properties that are similar to those of mammalian ones. However, even more intriguing is that some tissues such as the ligamentous catch apparatus can exhibit mutability, namely rapid reversible changes in the tissue mechanical properties. These tissues are known as mutable collagenous tissues (MCTs). The mutability of these tissues has been the subject of on-going investigations, covering the biochemistry, structural biology and mechanical properties of the collagenous components. Recent studies point to a nerve-control system for regulating the ECM macromolecules that are involved in the sliding action of collagen fibrils in the MCT. This review discusses the key attributes of the structure and function of the ECM of the sea urchin ligaments that are related to the fibril-fibril sliding action-the focus is on the respective components within the hierarchical architecture of the tissue. In this context, structure refers to size, shape and separation distance of the ECM components while function is associated with mechanical properties e.g., strength and stiffness. For simplicity, the components that address the different length scale from the largest to the smallest are as follows: collagen fibres, collagen fibrils, interfibrillar matrix and collagen molecules. Application of recent theories of stress transfer and fracture mechanisms in fibre reinforced composites to a wide variety of collagen reinforcing (non-mutable) connective tissue, has allowed us to draw general conclusions concerning the mechanical response of the MCT at specific mechanical states, namely the stiff and complaint states. The intent of this review is to provide the latest insights, as well as identify technical challenges and opportunities, that may be useful for developing methods for effective mechanical support when adapting decellularised connective tissues from the sea urchin for tissue engineering or for the design of a synthetic analogue.

Collagenous Extracellular Matrix Biomaterials for Tissue Engineering: Lessons from the Common Sea Urchin Tissue

PubMed Central

Goh, Kheng Lim; Holmes, David F.

2017-01-01

Scaffolds for tissue engineering application may be made from a collagenous extracellular matrix (ECM) of connective tissues because the ECM can mimic the functions of the target tissue. The primary sources of collagenous ECM material are calf skin and bone. However, these sources are associated with the risk of having bovine spongiform encephalopathy or transmissible spongiform encephalopathy. Alternative sources for collagenous ECM materials may be derived from livestock, e.g., pigs, and from marine animals, e.g., sea urchins. Collagenous ECM of the sea urchin possesses structural features and mechanical properties that are similar to those of mammalian ones. However, even more intriguing is that some tissues such as the ligamentous catch apparatus can exhibit mutability, namely rapid reversible changes in the tissue mechanical properties. These tissues are known as mutable collagenous tissues (MCTs). The mutability of these tissues has been the subject of on-going investigations, covering the biochemistry, structural biology and mechanical properties of the collagenous components. Recent studies point to a nerve-control system for regulating the ECM macromolecules that are involved in the sliding action of collagen fibrils in the MCT. This review discusses the key attributes of the structure and function of the ECM of the sea urchin ligaments that are related to the fibril-fibril sliding action—the focus is on the respective components within the hierarchical architecture of the tissue. In this context, structure refers to size, shape and separation distance of the ECM components while function is associated with mechanical properties e.g., strength and stiffness. For simplicity, the components that address the different length scale from the largest to the smallest are as follows: collagen fibres, collagen fibrils, interfibrillar matrix and collagen molecules. Application of recent theories of stress transfer and fracture mechanisms in fibre reinforced composites to a wide variety of collagen reinforcing (non-mutable) connective tissue, has allowed us to draw general conclusions concerning the mechanical response of the MCT at specific mechanical states, namely the stiff and complaint states. The intent of this review is to provide the latest insights, as well as identify technical challenges and opportunities, that may be useful for developing methods for effective mechanical support when adapting decellularised connective tissues from the sea urchin for tissue engineering or for the design of a synthetic analogue. PMID:28441344

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

Jorgens, Danielle M.; Inman, Jamie L.; Wojcik, Michal

The importance of context in regulation of gene expression is now an accepted principle; yet the mechanism by which the microenvironment communicates with the nucleus and chromatin in healthy tissues is poorly understood. A functional role for nuclear and cytoskeletal architecture is suggested by the phenotypic differences observed between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Capitalizing on recent advances in cryogenic techniques, volume electron microscopy and super-resolution light microscopy, we studied human mammary epithelial cells in three-dimensional (3D) cultures forming growtharrested acini. Intriguingly, we found deep nuclear invaginations and tunnels traversing the nucleus, encasing cytoskeletal actin and/or intermediate filaments, which connect tomore » the outer nuclear envelope. Also, the cytoskeleton is connected both to other cells through desmosome adhesion complexes and to the extracellular matrix through hemidesmosomes. This finding supports a physical and/or mechanical link from the desmosomes and hemidesmosomes to the nucleus, which had previously been hypothesized but now is visualized for the first time. These unique structures, including the nuclear invaginations and the cytoskeletal connectivity to the cell nucleus, are consistent with a dynamic reciprocity between the nucleus and the outside of epithelial cells and tissues.« less

Neurovascular manifestations of connective-tissue diseases: A review

PubMed Central

Kim, Sarasa T; Lanzino, Giuseppe; Kallmes, David F

2016-01-01

Patients with connective tissue diseases are thought to be at a higher risk for a number of cerebrovascular diseases such as intracranial aneurysms, dissections, and acute ischemic strokes. In this report, we aim to understand the prevalence and occurrences of such neurovascular manifestations in four heritable connective tissue disorders: Marfan syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, Neurofibromatosis Type 1, and Loeys-Dietz syndrome. We discuss the fact that although there are various case studies reporting neurovascular findings in these connective tissue diseases, there is a general lack of case-control and prospective studies investigating the true prevalence of these findings in these patient populations. Furthermore, the differences observed in the manifestations and histology of such disease pathologies encourages future multi-center registries and studies in better characterizing the pathophysiology, prevalence, and ideal treatment options of neurovascular lesions in patents with connective tissue diseases. PMID:27511817

[Feasibility of using connective tissue prosthesis for autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall defects (an experimental study)].

PubMed

Tyumentseva, N V; Yushkov, B G; Medvedeva, S Y; Kovalenko, R Y; Uzbekov, O K; Zhuravlev, V N

2016-12-01

Experiments on laboratory rats have shown the feasibility of autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall defects using a connective-tissue capsule formed as the result of an inflammatory response to the presence of a foreign body. The formation of connective tissue prosthesis is characterized by developing fibrous connective tissue, ordering of collagen fibers, reducing the number of cells per unit area with a predominance of more mature cells - fibroblasts. With increasing time of observation, connective tissue prostheses were found to acquire a morphological structure similar to that of the urinary bladder wall. By month 12, the mucosa, the longitudinal and circular muscle layers were formed. The proposed method of partial autoplastic repair of urinary bladder wall is promising, has good long-term results, but requires further experimental studies.

Comparative anatomy of the dorsal hump in mature Pacific salmon.

PubMed

Susuki, Kenta; Ban, Masatoshi; Ichimura, Masaki; Kudo, Hideaki

2017-07-01

Mature male Pacific salmon (Genus Oncorhynchus) demonstrate prominent morphological changes, such as the development of a dorsal hump. The degree of dorsal hump formation depends on the species in Pacific salmon. It is generally accepted that mature males of sockeye (O. nerka) and pink (O. gorbuscha) salmon develop most pronounced dorsal humps. The internal structure of the dorsal hump in pink salmon has been confirmed in detail. In this study, the dorsal hump morphologies were analyzed in four Pacific salmon species inhabiting Japan, masu (O. masou), sockeye, chum (O. keta), and pink salmon. The internal structure of the dorsal humps also depended on the species; sockeye and pink salmon showed conspicuous development of connective tissue and growth of bone tissues in the dorsal tissues. Masu and chum salmon exhibited less-pronounced increases in connective tissues and bone growth. Hyaluronic acid was clearly detected in dorsal hump connective tissue by histochemistry, except for in masu salmon. The lipid content in dorsal hump connective tissue was richer in masu and chum salmon than in sockeye and pink salmon. These results revealed that the patterns of dorsal hump formation differed among species, and especially sockeye and pink salmon develop pronounced dorsal humps through both increases in the amount of connective tissue and the growth of bone tissues. In contrast, masu and chum salmon develop their dorsal humps by the growth of bone tissues, rather than the development of connective tissue. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Meat Science and Muscle Biology Symposium: manipulating meat tenderness by increasing the turnover of intramuscular connective tissue.

PubMed

Purslow, P P; Archile-Contreras, A C; Cha, M C

2012-03-01

Controlled reduction of the connective tissue contribution to cooked meat toughness is an objective that would have considerable financial impact in terms of added product value. The amount of intramuscular connective tissue in a muscle appears connected to its in vivo function, so reduction of the overall connective tissue content is not thought to be a viable target. However, manipulation of the state of maturity of the collagenous component is a biologically viable target; by increasing connective tissue turnover, less mature structures can be produced that are functional in vivo but more easily broken down on cooking at temperatures above 60°C, thus improving cooked meat tenderness. Recent work using cell culture models of fibroblasts derived from muscle and myoblasts has identified a range of factors that alter the activity of the principal enzymes responsible for connective tissue turnover, the matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). Fibroblasts cultured from 3 different skeletal muscles from the same animal show different cell proliferation and MMP activity, which may relate to the different connective tissue content and architecture in functionally different muscles. Expression of MMP by fibroblasts is increased by vitamins that can counter the negative effects of oxidative stress on new collagen synthesis. Preliminary work using in situ zymography of myotubes in culture also indicates increased MMP activity in the presence of epinephrine and reactive oxidative species. Comparison of the relative changes in MMP expression from muscle cells vs. fibroblasts shows that myoblasts are more responsive to a range of stimuli. Muscle cells are likely to produce more of the total MMP in muscle tissue as a whole, and the expression of latent forms of the enzymes (i.e., pro-MMP) may vary between oxidative and glycolytic muscle fibers within the same muscle. The implication is that the different muscle fiber composition of different muscles eaten as meat may influence the potential for manipulation of their connective tissue turnover.

Whole-body tissue stabilization and selective extractions via tissue-hydrogel hybrids for high-resolution intact circuit mapping and phenotyping.

PubMed

Treweek, Jennifer B; Chan, Ken Y; Flytzanis, Nicholas C; Yang, Bin; Deverman, Benjamin E; Greenbaum, Alon; Lignell, Antti; Xiao, Cheng; Cai, Long; Ladinsky, Mark S; Bjorkman, Pamela J; Fowlkes, Charless C; Gradinaru, Viviana

2015-11-01

To facilitate fine-scale phenotyping of whole specimens, we describe here a set of tissue fixation-embedding, detergent-clearing and staining protocols that can be used to transform excised organs and whole organisms into optically transparent samples within 1-2 weeks without compromising their cellular architecture or endogenous fluorescence. PACT (passive CLARITY technique) and PARS (perfusion-assisted agent release in situ) use tissue-hydrogel hybrids to stabilize tissue biomolecules during selective lipid extraction, resulting in enhanced clearing efficiency and sample integrity. Furthermore, the macromolecule permeability of PACT- and PARS-processed tissue hybrids supports the diffusion of immunolabels throughout intact tissue, whereas RIMS (refractive index matching solution) grants high-resolution imaging at depth by further reducing light scattering in cleared and uncleared samples alike. These methods are adaptable to difficult-to-image tissues, such as bone (PACT-deCAL), and to magnified single-cell visualization (ePACT). Together, these protocols and solutions enable phenotyping of subcellular components and tracing cellular connectivity in intact biological networks.

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Evaluation of Horizontal and Vertical Dimensional Changes in Buccal Peri-Implant Alveolar Bone and Soft Tissue: A 1-Year Prospective Clinical Study.

PubMed

Kaminaka, Akihiro; Nakano, Tamaki; Ono, Shinji; Kato, Tokinori; Yatani, Hirofumi

2015-10-01

This study evaluated changes in the horizontal and vertical dimensions of the buccal alveolar bone and soft tissue over a 1-year period following implant prosthesis. Thirty-three participants with no history of guided bone regeneration or soft tissue augmentation underwent dental implant placement with different types of connections. The dimensions of the buccal alveolar bone and soft tissue were evaluated immediately and at 1 year after prosthesis from reconstructions of cross-sectional cone-beam computed tomography images. The vertical and horizontal loss of buccal bone and soft tissue around implants with conical connections were lower than around those with external or internal connections. Statistically significant negative correlations were observed between initial horizontal bone thickness and changes in vertical bone and soft tissue height (p < .05), and between initial horizontal soft tissue thickness and the change in vertical soft tissue height (p < .05). Implants with a conical connection preserve peri-implant alveolar bone and soft tissue more effectively than other connection types. Furthermore, the initial buccal alveolar bone and soft tissue thickness around the implant platform may influence their vertical dimensional changes at 1 year after implant prosthesis. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Stress Distribution in Splinted and Unsplinted Implant-Supported Maxillary Overdentures: A 3D Finite Element Analysis.

PubMed

Geramy, Allahyar; Habibzadeh, Sareh

2018-02-01

This study was accomplished to assess the biomechanical state of splinting in implant-supported maxillary overdentures. Two models of maxillary overdentures were designed in SolidWorks 2011. The first model included 4 separate implants and ball abutments, whereas the second one included 4 splinted implants connected with a bar. Evaluation was performed in ANSYS Workbench software with 200 N load applied at the molar-premolar region, bilaterally. The maximum equivalent stress and strain (von Mises) was recorded and analyzed along a path between the implants in the crestal bone and the prosthetic attachments. First model presented higher values of strain in prosthetic attachment and higher values of von Mises stress in crestal bone. The second model presented higher stress concentration in the gingival tissue of premolar area (near the bar), whereas the peak stress values were reported within the most distal part of the soft tissue support of the prosthesis in the first model (unsplinted). Splinting maxillary overdentures implants is associated with significant lower stress levels in the surrounding bone tissue.

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum is a metabolic disease.

PubMed

Jiang, Qiujie; Endo, Masayuki; Dibra, Florian; Wang, Krystle; Uitto, Jouni

2009-02-01

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a pleiotropic multisystem disorder affecting skin, eyes, and the cardiovascular system with progressive pathological mineralization. It is caused by mutations in the ABCC6 gene expressed primarily in the liver and kidneys, and at very low levels, if at all, in tissues affected by PXE. A question has arisen regarding the pathomechanism of PXE, particularly the "metabolic" versus the "PXE cell" hypotheses. We examined a murine PXE model (Abcc6(-/-)) by transplanting muzzle skin from knockout (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice onto the back of WT and KO mice using mineralization of the connective tissue capsule surrounding the vibrissae as an early phenotypic biomarker. Grafting of WT mouse muzzle skin onto the back of KO mice resulted in mineralization of vibrissae, whereas grafting KO mouse muzzle skin onto WT mice did not. Thus, these findings implicate circulatory factors as a critical component of the mineralization process. This mouse grafting model supports the notion that PXE is a systemic metabolic disorder with secondary mineralization of connective tissues and that the mineralization process can be countered or even reversed by changes in the homeostatic milieu.

Biomechanical Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analysis of Single Implant-Supported Prostheses in the Anterior Maxilla, with Different Surgical Techniques and Implant Types.

PubMed

Verri, Fellippo Ramos; Santiago, Joel Ferreira; Almeida, Daniel Augusto; de Souza Batista, Victor Eduardo; Araujo Lemos, Cleidiel Aparecido; Mello, Caroline Cantieri; Pellizzer, Eduardo Piza

The aim of this study was to use three-dimensional finite element analysis to analyze the stress distribution transferred by single implant-supported prostheses placed in the anterior maxilla using different connections (external hexagon, internal hexagon, or Morse taper), inclinations of the load (0, 30, or 60 degrees), and surgical techniques for placement (monocortical/conventional, bicortical, or bicortical with nasal floor elevation). Nine models representing a bone block of this region were simulated by computer-aided design software (InVesalius, Rhinoceros, SolidWorks). Each model received one implant, which supported a cemented metalloceramic crown. Using FEMAP software, finite elements were discretized while simulating a 178-N load at 0, 30, and 60 degrees relative to the long axis of the implant. The problem was solved in NEi Nastran software, and postprocessing was performed in FEMAP. Von Mises stress and maximum principal stress maps were made. The von Mises stress analysis revealed that stress increased with increasing inclination of the load, from 0 to 30 to 60 degrees. Morse taper implants showed less stress concentration around the cervical and apical areas of the implant. The bicortical technique, associated or not with nasal floor elevation, contributed to decreasing the stress concentration in the apical area of the implant. Maximum principal stress analysis showed that the increase in inclination was proportional to the increase in stress on the bone tissue in the cervical area. Lower stress concentrations in the cortical bone were obtained with Morse taper implants and the bicortical technique compared with other connections and surgical techniques, respectively. Increasing the inclination of the applied force relative to the long axis of the implant tended to overload the peri-implant bone tissue and the internal structure of the implants. The Morse taper connection and bicortical techniques seemed to be more favorable than other connections or techniques, respectively, for restoring the anterior maxilla.

Transient inhibition of connective tissue infiltration and collagen deposition into porous poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) discs.

PubMed

Love, Ryan J; Jones, Kim S

2013-12-01

Connective tissue rapidly proliferates on and around biomaterials implanted in vivo, which impairs the function of the engineered tissues, biosensors, and devices. Glucocorticoids can be utilized to suppress tissue ingrowth, but can only be used for a limited time because they nonselectively arrest cell proliferation in the local environment. The present study examined use of a prolyl-4-hydroxylase inhibitor, 1,4-dihydrophenonthrolin-4-one-3-carboxylic acid (1,4-DPCA), to suppress connective tissue ingrowth in porous PLGA discs implanted in the peritoneal cavity for 28 days. The prolyl-4-hydroxylase inhibitor was found to be effective at inhibiting collagen deposition within and on the outer surface of the disc, and also limited connective tissue ingrowth, but not to the extent of glucocorticoid inhibition. Finally, it was discovered that 1,4-DPCA suppressed Scavenger Receptor A expression on a macrophage-like cell culture, which may account for the drug's ability to limit connective tissue ingrowth in vivo. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., a Wiley Company.

Immediate placement and provisionalization of maxillary anterior single implant with guided bone regeneration, connective tissue graft, and coronally positioned flap procedures.

PubMed

Waki, Tomonori; Kan, Joseph Y K

2016-01-01

Immediate implant placement and provisionalization in the esthetic zone have been documented with success. The benefit of immediate implant placement and provisionalization is the preservation of papillary mucosa. However, in cases with osseous defects presenting on the facial bony plate, immediate implant placement procedures have resulted in facial gingival recession. Subepithelial connective tissue grafts for immediate implant placement and provisionalization procedures have been reported with a good esthetic outcome. Biotype conversion around implants with subepithelial connective tissue grafts have been advocated, and the resulting tissues appear to be more resistant to recession. The dimensions of peri-implant mucosa in a thick biotype were significantly greater than in a thin biotype. Connective tissue graft with coronally positioned flap procedures on natural teeth has also been documented with success. This article describes a technique combining immediate implant placement, provisionalization, guided bone regeneration (GBR), connective tissue graft, and a coronally positioned flap in order to achieve more stable peri-implant tissue in facial osseous defect situations.

Micromechanics and constitutive modeling of connective soft tissues.

PubMed

Fallah, A; Ahmadian, M T; Firozbakhsh, K; Aghdam, M M

2016-07-01

In this paper, a micromechanical model for connective soft tissues based on the available histological evidences is developed. The proposed model constituents i.e. collagen fibers and ground matrix are considered as hyperelastic materials. The matrix material is assumed to be isotropic Neo-Hookean while the collagen fibers are considered to be transversely isotropic hyperelastic. In order to take into account the effects of tissue structure in lower scales on the macroscopic behavior of tissue, a strain energy density function (SEDF) is developed for collagen fibers based on tissue hierarchical structure. Macroscopic response and properties of tissue are obtained using the numerical homogenization method with the help of ABAQUS software. The periodic boundary conditions and the proposed constitutive models are implemented into ABAQUS using the DISP and the UMAT subroutines, respectively. The existence of the solution and stable material behavior of proposed constitutive model for collagen fibers are investigated based on the poly-convexity condition. Results of the presented micromechanics model for connective tissues are compared and validated with available experimental data. Effects of geometrical and material parameters variation at microscale on macroscopic mechanical behavior of tissues are investigated. The results show that decrease in collagen content of the connective tissues like the tendon due to diseases leads 20% more stretch than healthy tissue under the same load which can results in connective tissue malfunction and hypermobility in joints. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Identifying the architecture of a supracellular actomyosin network that induces tissue folding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yevick, Hannah; Stoop, Norbert; Dunkel, Jorn; Martin, Adam

During embryonic development, the establishment of correct tissue form ensures proper tissue function. Yet, how the thousands of cells within a tissue coordinate force production to sculpt tissue shape is poorly understood. One important tissue shape change is tissue folding where a cell sheet bends to form a closed tube. Drosophila (fruit fly) embryos undergo such a folding event, called ventral furrow formation. The ventral furrow is associated with a supracellular network of actin and myosin, where actin-myosin fibers assemble and connect between cells. It is not known how this tissue-wide network grows and connects over time, how reproducible it is between embryos, and what determines its architecture. Here, we used topological feature analysis to quantitatively and dynamically map the connections and architecture of this supracellular network across hundreds of cells in the folding tissue. We identified the importance of the cell unit in setting up the tissue-scale architecture of the network. Our mathematical framework allows us to explore stereotypic properties of the myosin network such that we can investigate the reproducibility of mechanical connections for a morphogenetic process. NIH F32.

Evaluation of In Vivo Wound Healing Activity of Bacopa monniera on Different Wound Model in Rats

PubMed Central

Murthy, S.; Gautam, M. K.; Goel, Shalini; Purohit, V.; Sharma, H.; Goel, R. K.

2013-01-01

Wound healing effects of 50% ethanol extract of dried whole plant of Bacopa monniera (BME) was studied on wound models in rats. BME (25 mg/kg) was administered orally, once daily for 10 days (incision and dead space wound models) or for 21 days or more (excision wound model) in rats. BME was studied for its in vitro antimicrobial and in vivo wound breaking strength, WBS (incision model), rate of contraction, period of epithelization, histology of skin (excision model), granulation tissue free radicals (nitric oxide and lipid peroxidation), antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and reduced glutathione), acute inflammatory marker (myeloperoxidase), connective tissue markers (hydroxyproline, hexosamine, and hexuronic acid), and deep connective tissue histology (dead space wound). BME showed antimicrobial activity against skin pathogens, enhanced WBS, rate of contraction, skin collagen tissue formation, and early epithelization period with low scar area indicating enhanced healing. Healing effect was further substantiated by decreased free radicals and myeloperoxidase and enhanced antioxidants and connective tissue markers with histological evidence of more collagen formation in skin and deeper connective tissues. BME decreased myeloperoxidase and free radical generated tissue damage, promoting antioxidant status, faster collagen deposition, other connective tissue constituent formation, and antibacterial activity. PMID:23984424

Evaluation of in vivo wound healing activity of Bacopa monniera on different wound model in rats.

PubMed

Murthy, S; Gautam, M K; Goel, Shalini; Purohit, V; Sharma, H; Goel, R K

2013-01-01

Wound healing effects of 50% ethanol extract of dried whole plant of Bacopa monniera (BME) was studied on wound models in rats. BME (25 mg/kg) was administered orally, once daily for 10 days (incision and dead space wound models) or for 21 days or more (excision wound model) in rats. BME was studied for its in vitro antimicrobial and in vivo wound breaking strength, WBS (incision model), rate of contraction, period of epithelization, histology of skin (excision model), granulation tissue free radicals (nitric oxide and lipid peroxidation), antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and reduced glutathione), acute inflammatory marker (myeloperoxidase), connective tissue markers (hydroxyproline, hexosamine, and hexuronic acid), and deep connective tissue histology (dead space wound). BME showed antimicrobial activity against skin pathogens, enhanced WBS, rate of contraction, skin collagen tissue formation, and early epithelization period with low scar area indicating enhanced healing. Healing effect was further substantiated by decreased free radicals and myeloperoxidase and enhanced antioxidants and connective tissue markers with histological evidence of more collagen formation in skin and deeper connective tissues. BME decreased myeloperoxidase and free radical generated tissue damage, promoting antioxidant status, faster collagen deposition, other connective tissue constituent formation, and antibacterial activity.

Efficacy of Connective Tissue with and without Periosteum in Regeneration of Intrabony Defects

PubMed Central

Esfahanian, Vahid; Golestaneh, Hedayatollah; Moghaddas, Omid; Ghafari, Mohammad Reza

2014-01-01

Background and aims. Connective tissue grafts with and without periosteum is used in regenerative treatments of bone and has demonstrated successful outcomes in previous investigations. The aim of present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of connective tissue graft with and without periosteum in regeneration of intrabony defects. Materials and methods. In this single-blind randomized split-mouth clinical trial, 15 pairs of intrabony defects in 15 patients with moderate to advanced periodontitis were treated by periosteal connective tissue graft + ABBM (test group) or non-periosteal connective tissue graft + ABBM (control group). Probing pocket depth, clinical attachment level, free gingival margin position, bone crestal position, crest defect depth and defect depth to stent were measured at baseline and after six months by surgical re-entry. Data was analyzed by Student’s t-test and paired t-tests (α=0.05). Results. Changes in clinical parameters after 6 months in the test and control groups were as follows: mean of PPD reduction: 3.1±0.6 (P<0.0001); 2.5±1.0 mm (P<0.0001), CAL gain: 2.3±0.9 (P<0.0001); 2.2±1.0 mm (P<0.0001), bone fill: 2.2±0.7 mm (P<0.0001); 2.2±0.7 mm (P<0.0001), respectively. No significant differences in the position of free gingival margin were observed during 6 months compared to baseline in both groups. Conclusion. Combinations of periosteal connective tissue graft + ABBM and non-periosteal connective tissue graft + ABBM were similarly effective in treating intrabony defects without any favor for any group. Connective tissue and perio-steum can be equally effective in regeneration of intrabony defects. PMID:25587379

Estimating the incidence of connective tissue diseases and vasculitides in a defined population in Northern Savo area in 2010.

PubMed

Elfving, P; Marjoniemi, O; Niinisalo, H; Kononoff, A; Arstila, L; Savolainen, E; Rutanen, J; Kaipiainen-Seppänen, O

2016-07-01

Objective of the study was to evaluate the annual incidence and distribution of autoimmune connective tissue diseases and vasculitides during 2010. All units practicing rheumatology in the Northern Savo area, Finland, participated in the study by collecting data on newly diagnosed adult patients with autoimmune connective tissue disease or vasculitis over 1-year period. Seventy-two cases with autoimmune connective tissue disease were identified. The annual incidence rates were as follows: systemic lupus erythematosus 3.4/100,000 (95 % CI 1.4-7.0), idiopathic inflammatory myopathies 1.9 (0.5-5.0), systemic sclerosis 4.4 (2.0-8.3), mixed connective tissue disease 1.0 (0.1-3.5), Sjögren's syndrome 10.7 (6.7-16.1) and undifferentiated connective tissue disease 13.6 (9.0-19.6). The annual incidence rates among vasculitis category were as follows: antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody-associated vasculitis 1.5/100,000 (95 % CI 0.3-4.3), central nervous system vasculitis 0.5 (0-2.7) and Henoch-Schönlein purpura 1.5 (0.3-4.3). The annual incidence of giant cell arteritis in the age group of 50 years or older was 7.5/100,000 (95 % CI 3.2-14.8). The longest delay from symptom onset to diagnosis occurred in systemic sclerosis. The incidences of autoimmune connective tissue diseases and vasculitides were comparable with those in published literature. The present study showed female predominance in all connective tissue diseases, excluding idiopathic inflammatory muscle diseases and mean age at onset of disease around 50 years of age. Despite improved diagnostic tools, diagnostic delay is long especially among patients with systemic sclerosis.

Morphology of the lingual papillae in the fishing cat.

PubMed

Emura, Shoichi; Okumura, Toshihiko; Chen, Huayue

2014-01-01

We examined the dorsal lingual surface of an adult fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus) by scanning electron microscopy. The filiform papillae on the lingual apex had several pointed processes. The connective tissue core of the filiform papillae resembleda a well in shape. The filiform papillae on the anterior part of the lingual body were large and cylindrical in shape. The connective tissue core of the filiform papillae consisted of a large conical papilla. The filiform papillae on the central part of the lingual body were large and conical. The connective tissue core of the filiform papillae consisted of a large main process and some secondary processes. The connective tissue core of the fungiform papillae did not have processes. The vallate papillae were surrounded by a groove and a pad. The top of the connective tissue core of the vallate papillae had a rough surface with no spines.

Connective Tissue Disorders and Cardiovascular Complications: The indomitable role of Transforming Growth Factor-beta signaling

PubMed Central

Wheeler, Jason B.; Ikonomidis, John S.; Jones, Jeffrey A.

2015-01-01

Marfan Syndrome (MFS) and Loeys-Dietz Syndrome (LDS) represent heritable connective tissue disorders that cosegregate with a similar pattern of cardiovascular defects (thoracic aortic aneurysm, mitral valve prolapse/regurgitation, and aortic dilatation with regurgitation). This pattern of cardiovascular defects appears to be expressed along a spectrum of severity in many heritable connective tissue disorders and raises suspicion of a relationship between the normal development of connective tissues and the cardiovascular system. Given the evidence of increased transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) signaling in MFS and LDS, this signaling pathway may represent the common link in this relationship. To further explore this hypothetical link, this chapter will review the TGF-β signaling pathway, heritable connective tissue syndromes related to TGF-β receptor (TGFBR) mutations, and discuss the pathogenic contribution of TGF-β to these syndromes with a primary focus on the cardiovascular system. PMID:24443024

Spontaneous progression of experimentally induced periimplantitis.

PubMed

Zitzmann, N U; Berglundh, T; Ericsson, I; Lindhe, J

2004-10-01

Periimplantitis represents an inflammatory condition that is associated with the presence of a submarginal biofilm and with advanced breakdown of soft and mineralized tissues surrounding endosseous implants. Animal models have been used to describe mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis and treatment of the soft and hard tissue lesions of periimplantitis. The aim of the present experiment was to study the presence and progression of inflammatory lesions in tissues surrounding implants exposed to "experimental periimplantitis". Five Labrador dogs were used. In each dog, 2 or 3 implants were placed in both the left and right edentulous premolar regions of the mandible. Abutment connection was performed 4 months later and a plaque control regimen was initiated and maintained for 5 months. "Experimental periimplantitis" was subsequently induced by ligature placement and plaque accumulation was allowed to progress until about 40% of the height of the supporting bone had been lost. The ligatures were removed, but plaque formation was allowed to continue for an additional 12 months. Radiographs of all implant sites were obtained before and after active "experimental periimplantitis" as well as at the end of the experiment. Biopsies were harvested from the implant sites in 3 of the dogs. The tissue samples were prepared for light microscopy and the sections were used for histometric and morphometric examinations. One implant was lost during the first 2 months of "experimental periimplantitis" and two implants were lost during the 12 months that followed ligature removal. The radiographic examination indicated that varying amounts of additional bone loss occurred in the majority of the implant sites also following ligature removal. The mucosa of all implant sites harbored inflammatory lesions that extended apically of the pocket epithelium. The lesions were separated from the marginal bone by a zone of apparently normal connective tissue. A remission of the destructive inflammatory lesion in the periimplant tissues was seen in some sites following ligature removal, but in the majority of sites additional loss of supporting bone occurred. Copyright Blackwell Munksgaard, 2004

[CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF CONGENITAL HEART DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISPLASIA AT CHILDREN LIVING IN EAST REGION OF KAZAKHSTAN].

PubMed

Madiyeva, M; Rymbayeva, T

2017-11-01

The frequency of the combination of congenital heart defects (CHD) and connective tissue dysplasia remains poorly understood. And connective tissue dysplasia enhance severity the clinical of CHD. The aim of the study was to conduct a clinical and laboratory analysis of combinations of congenital heart defects and connective tissue dysplasia in children of Semey and to determine the risk for the development of these pathologies. The object of the study is the children of Semey (East Kazakhstan) aged 1-14 with congenital heart defects (CHD), with connective tissue dysplasia, healthy children and their mothers. Definition complex clinical and laboratory studies in children with CHD and connective tissue dysplasia, and their mothers. In children with CHD, the frequency of external and visceral signs of dysplasia was high. In 88.1% of cases in children with CHD was diagnosed 2-3 degrees of dysplasia. Was found difference in the microelement composition of blood serum and of hemostasis in children with CHD were expressed by hypofibrinogenemia, hypocalcemia, hypomagnesemia. Excess of the frequency of signs of dysplasia in mothers over the control group to consider dysplasia as a factor that influences the clinical of CHD.

Connective tissue fibroblasts and Tcf4 regulate myogenesis

PubMed Central

Mathew, Sam J.; Hansen, Jody M.; Merrell, Allyson J.; Murphy, Malea M.; Lawson, Jennifer A.; Hutcheson, David A.; Hansen, Mark S.; Angus-Hill, Melinda; Kardon, Gabrielle

2011-01-01

Muscle and its connective tissue are intimately linked in the embryo and in the adult, suggesting that interactions between these tissues are crucial for their development. However, the study of muscle connective tissue has been hindered by the lack of molecular markers and genetic reagents to label connective tissue fibroblasts. Here, we show that the transcription factor Tcf4 (transcription factor 7-like 2; Tcf7l2) is strongly expressed in connective tissue fibroblasts and that Tcf4GFPCre mice allow genetic manipulation of these fibroblasts. Using this new reagent, we find that connective tissue fibroblasts critically regulate two aspects of myogenesis: muscle fiber type development and maturation. Fibroblasts promote (via Tcf4-dependent signals) slow myogenesis by stimulating the expression of slow myosin heavy chain. Also, fibroblasts promote the switch from fetal to adult muscle by repressing (via Tcf4-dependent signals) the expression of developmental embryonic myosin and promoting (via a Tcf4-independent mechanism) the formation of large multinucleate myofibers. In addition, our analysis of Tcf4 function unexpectedly reveals a novel mechanism of intrinsic regulation of muscle fiber type development. Unlike other intrinsic regulators of fiber type, low levels of Tcf4 in myogenic cells promote both slow and fast myogenesis, thereby promoting overall maturation of muscle fiber type. Thus, we have identified novel extrinsic and intrinsic mechanisms regulating myogenesis. Most significantly, our data demonstrate for the first time that connective tissue is important not only for adult muscle structure and function, but is a vital component of the niche within which muscle progenitors reside and is a critical regulator of myogenesis. PMID:21177349

Remodeling of the Connective Tissue Microarchitecture of the Lamina Cribrosa in Early Experimental Glaucoma

PubMed Central

Roberts, Michael D.; Grau, Vicente; Grimm, Jonathan; Reynaud, Juan; Bellezza, Anthony J.; Burgoyne, Claude F.; Downs, J. Crawford

2009-01-01

Purpose To characterize the trabeculated connective tissue microarchitecture of the lamina cribrosa (LC) in terms of total connective tissue volume (CTV), connective tissue volume fraction (CTVF), predominant beam orientation, and material anisotropy in monkeys with early experimental glaucoma (EG). Methods The optic nerve heads from three monkeys with unilateral EG and four bilaterally normal monkeys were three dimensionally reconstructed from tissues perfusion fixed at an intraocular pressure of 10 mm Hg. A three-dimensional segmentation algorithm was used to extract a binary, voxel-based representation of the porous LC connective tissue microstructure that was regionalized into 45 subvolumes, and the following quantities were calculated: total CTV within the LC, mean and regional CTVF, regional predominant beam orientation, and mean and regional material anisotropy. Results Regional variation within the laminar microstructure was considerable within the normal eyes of all monkeys. The laminar connective tissue was generally most dense in the central and superior regions for the paired normal eyes, and laminar beams were radially oriented at the periphery for all eyes considered. CTV increased substantially in EG eyes compared with contralateral normal eyes (82%, 44%, 45% increases; P < 0.05), but average CTVF changed little (−7%, 1%, and −2% in the EG eyes). There were more laminar beams through the thickness of the LC in the EG eyes than in the normal controls (46%, 18%, 17% increases). Conclusions The substantial increase in laminar CTV with little change in CTVF suggests that significant alterations in connective and nonconnective tissue components in the laminar region occur in the early stages of glaucomatous damage. PMID:18806292

[The applications of periodontal gingival surgery. Ⅱ: alternative materials].

PubMed

Mao, Er-Jia

2018-04-01

The main purposes of periodontal graft surgery include achieving root coverage, improving the clinical attachment level and keratinized tissue, and advancing the procedure of periodontal plastic surgery. Autogenous graft, such as subepithelial connective tissue graft-based procedure, provide the best outcomes for mean and complete root coverage, as well as increase in keratinized tissue. However, a disadvantage of the procedure is in the location of the operation itself: the additional surgical site (palate). Therefore, clinicians are always looking for graft substitutes. This article will discuss the evidence supporting the use of 1) acellular dermal matrix (ADM); 2) xenogeneic collagen matrix (XCM); 3) recombinant human platelet-derived growth factor (rhPDGF); 4) enamel matrix derivative (EMD); 5) guided tissue regeneration (GTR); 6) living cellular construct (LCC), all of which are used in conjunction with coronally advanced flaps as alternatives to autogenous donor tissue. The decision tree for treatments of Miller recession-type defects are also discussed.

Orthodontic–periodontics interdisciplinary approach

PubMed Central

Vinod, K.; Reddy, Y. Giridhar; Reddy, Vinay P.; Nandan, Hemant; Sharma, Meenakshi

2012-01-01

In this present era, when a significant number of patients seeking orthodontic treatment are adults, importance of multidisciplinary treatment approach cannot be overemphasized. Higher susceptibility of plaque accumulation in patients undergoing orthodontic treatment makes involvement of periodontist almost unavoidable. Also, orthodontic treatment frequently results in undesirable periodontal changes which require immediate attention. More recently, orthodontics has been used as an adjunct to periodontics to increase connective tissue support and alveolar bone height. The purpose of this article is to review the adverse effects of orthodontic treatment on the periodontal tissues and to discuss the mutually beneficial relationship shared between the two specialties. PMID:22628956

Connective Tissue Characteristics around Healing Abutments of Different Geometries: New Methodological Technique under Circularly Polarized Light.

PubMed

Delgado-Ruiz, Rafael Arcesio; Calvo-Guirado, Jose Luis; Abboud, Marcus; Ramirez-Fernandez, Maria Piedad; Maté-Sánchez de Val, José Eduardo; Negri, Bruno; Gomez-Moreno, Gerardo; Markovic, Aleksa

2015-08-01

To describe contact, thickness, density, and orientation of connective tissue fibers around healing abutments of different geometries by means of a new method using coordinates. Following the bilateral extraction of mandibular premolars (P2, P3, and P4) from six fox hound dogs and a 2-month healing period, 36 titanium implants were inserted, onto which two groups of healing abutments of different geometry were screwed: Group A (concave abutments) and Group B (wider healing abutment). After 3 months the animals were sacrificed and samples extracted containing each implant and surrounding soft and hard tissues. Histological analysis was performed without decalcifying the samples by means of circularly polarized light under optical microscope and a system of vertical and horizontal coordinates across all the connective tissue in an area delimited by the implant/abutment, epithelium, and bone tissue. In no case had the connective tissue formed a connection to the healing abutment/implant in the internal zone; a space of 35 ± 10 μm separated the connective tissue fibers from the healing abutment surface. The total thickness of connective tissue in the horizontal direction was significantly greater in the medial zone in Group B than in Group A (p < .05). The orientation of the fibers varied according to the coordinate area so that internal coordinates showed a higher percentage of parallel fibers in Group A (p < .05) and a higher percentage of oblique fibers in Group B (p < .05); medial coordinates showed more oblique fibers (p < .05); and the area of external coordinates showed the highest percentage of perpendicular fibers (p < .05). The fiber density was higher in the basal and medial areas (p < .05). Abutment geometry influences the orientation of collagen fibers; therefore, an abutment with a profile wider than the implant platform favors oblique and perpendicular orientation of collagen fibers and greater connective tissue thickness. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

[50 years of connective tissue research: from the French Connective Tissue Club to the French Society of Extracellular Matrix Biology].

PubMed

Maquart, François-Xavier; Borel, Jacques-Paul

2012-01-01

The history of connective tissue research began in the late 18th century. However, it is only 50 years later that the concept of connective tissue was shaped. It took another fifty years before biochemical knowledge of extracellular matrix macromolecules began to emerge in the first half of the 20th century. In 1962, thanks to Ladislas and Barbara Robert, back from the US, the first society called "French Connective Tissue Club" was created in Paris. The first board was constituted of Albert Delaunay, Suzanne Bazin and Ladislas Robert. Very quickly, under the influence of these pioneers, national and international meetings were organized and, in 1967, a "Federation of the European Connective Tissue Clubs" was created at the initiative of Ladislas Robert (Paris) and John Scott (Manchester). It spread rapidly to the major European nations. In 1982 the transformation of "Clubs" in "Societies" occurred, a name more in line with the requirements of the time. In 2008, the "French Connective Tissue Society" became the "French Society of Extracellular Matrix Biology" ("Société Française de Biologie de la Matrice Extracellulaire", SFBMEc), to better highlight the importance of the extracellular matrix in the biology of living organisms. The SFBMEc's mission today is to promote and develop scientific exchanges between academic, industrial, and hospital laboratories involved in research on the extracellular matrix. SFBMEc organizes or subsidizes scientific meetings and awards scholarships to Ph.D. students or post-docs to participate in international conferences. It includes 200 to 250 members from different disciplines, developing strong interactions between scientists, clinicians and pathologists. It is present all around the French territory in many research laboratories. During these last 50 years, the extraordinary advances made possible by the development of new investigation techniques, in particular molecular biology, cell and tissue imaging, molecular modeling, etc., have permitted a considerable increase of the knowledge in the field of connective tissue. © Société de Biologie, 2012.

STRETCHING IMPACTS INFLAMMATION RESOLUTION IN CONNECTIVE TISSUE

PubMed Central

Berrueta, Lisbeth; Muskaj, Igla; Olenich, Sara; Butler, Taylor; Badger, Gary J.; Colas, Romain A.; Spite, Matthew; Serhan, Charles N.; Langevin, Helene M.

2016-01-01

Acute inflammation is accompanied from its outset by the release of specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), including resolvins, that orchestrate the resolution of local inflammation. We showed earlier that, in rats with subcutaneous inflammation of the back induced by carrageenan, stretching for 10 minutes twice daily reduced inflammation and improved pain, two weeks after carrageenan injection. In this study, we hypothesized that stretching of connective tissue activates local pro-resolving mechanisms within the tissue in the acute phase of inflammation. In rats injected with carrageenan and randomized to stretch vs. no stretch for 48 hours, stretching reduced inflammatory lesion thickness and neutrophil count, and increased resolvin (RvD1) concentrations within lesions. Furthermore, subcutaneous resolvin injection mimicked the effect of stretching. In ex vivo experiments, stretching of connective tissue reduced the migration of neutrophils and increased tissue RvD1 concentration. These results demonstrate a direct mechanical impact of stretching on inflammation-regulation mechanisms within connective tissue. PMID:26588184

Tumors: wounds that do not heal-redux.

PubMed

Dvorak, Harold F

2015-01-01

Similarities between tumors and the inflammatory response associated with wound healing have been recognized for more than 150 years and continue to intrigue. Some years ago, based on our then recent discovery of vascular permeability factor (VPF)/VEGF, I suggested that tumors behaved as wounds that do not heal. More particularly, I proposed that tumors co-opted the wound-healing response to induce the stroma they required for maintenance and growth. Work over the past few decades has supported this hypothesis and has put it on a firmer molecular basis. In outline, VPF/VEGF initiates a sequence of events in both tumors and wounds that includes the following: increased vascular permeability; extravasation of plasma, fibrinogen and other plasma proteins; activation of the clotting system outside the vascular system; deposition of an extravascular fibrin gel that serves as a provisional stroma and a favorable matrix for cell migration; induction of angiogenesis and arterio-venogenesis; subsequent degradation of fibrin and its replacement by "granulation tissue" (highly vascular connective tissue); and, finally, vascular resorption and collagen synthesis, resulting in the formation of dense fibrous connective tissue (called "scar tissue" in wounds and "desmoplasia" in cancer). A similar sequence of events also takes place in a variety of important inflammatory diseases that involve cellular immunity. ©2015 American Association for Cancer Research.

Quantitative morphology in canine cutaneous soft tissue sarcomas.

PubMed

Simeonov, R; Ananiev, J; Gulubova, M

2015-12-01

Stained cytological specimens from 24 dogs with spontaneous soft tissue sarcomas [fibrosarcoma (n = 8), liposarcoma (n = 8) and haemangiopericytoma (n = 8)], and 24 dogs with reactive connective tissue lesions [granulation tissue (n = 12) and dermal fibrosis (n = 12)] were analysed by computer-assisted nuclear morphometry. The studied morphometric parameters were: mean nuclear area (MNA; µm(2)), mean nuclear perimeter (MNP; µm), mean nuclear diameter (MND mean; µm), minimum nuclear diameter (Dmin; µm) and maximum nuclear diameter (Dmax; µm). The study aimed to evaluate (1) possibility for quantitative differentiation of soft tissue sarcomas from reactive connective tissue lesions and (2) by using cytomorphometry, to differentiate the various histopathological soft tissue sarcomas subtypes in dogs. The mean values of all nuclear cytomorphometric parameters (except for Dmax) were statistically significantly higher in reactive connective tissue processes than in soft tissue sarcomas. At the same time, however, there were no considerable differences among the different sarcoma subtypes. The results demonstrated that the quantitative differentiation of reactive connective tissue processes from soft tissue sarcomas in dogs is possible, but the same was not true for the different canine soft tissue sarcoma subtypes. Further investigations on this topic are necessary for thorough explication of the role of quantitative morphology in the diagnostics of mesenchymal neoplasms and tumour-like fibrous lesions in dogs. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Alveolar Ridge Contouring with Free Connective Tissue Graft at Implant Placement: A 5-Year Consecutive Clinical Study.

PubMed

Hanser, Thomas; Khoury, Fouad

2016-01-01

This study evaluated volume stability after alveolar ridge contouring with free connective tissue grafts at implant placement in single-tooth gaps. A total of 52 single-tooth gaps with labial volume deficiencies in the maxilla (incisors, canines, and premolars) were consecutively treated with implants and concomitant free palatal connective tissue grafts in 46 patients between 2006 and 2009. Implants had to be covered with at least 2 mm peri-implant local bone after insertion. At implant placement, a free connective tissue graft from the palate was fixed inside a labial split-thickness flap to form an existing concave buccal alveolar ridge contour due to tissue volume deficiency into a convex shape. Standardized volumetric measurements of the labial alveolar contour using a template were evaluated before connective tissue grafting and at 2 weeks, 1 year, and 5 years after implantprosthetic incorporation. Tissue volume had increased significantly (P < .05) in all six reference points representing the outer alveolar soft tissue contour of the implant before connective tissue grafting to baseline (2 weeks after implant-prosthetic incorporation). Statistically, 50% of the reference points (P > .05) kept their volume from baseline to 1 year after prosthetic incorporation and from baseline to 5 years after prosthetic incorporation, respectively, whereas reference points located within the area of the implant sulcus showed a significant (P < .05) decrease in volume. Clinically, 5 years after prosthetic incorporation the originally concave buccal alveolar contour was still convex in all implants, leading to a continuous favorable anatomical shape and improved esthetic situation. Intraoral radiographs confirmed osseointegration and stable peri-implant parameters with a survival rate of 100% after a follow-up of approximately 5 years. Implant placement with concomitant free connective tissue grafting appears to be an appropriate long-term means to contour preexisting buccal alveolar volume deficiencies in single implants.

Expression of connective tissue growth factor is a prognostic marker for patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

PubMed

Gardini, A; Corti, B; Fiorentino, M; Altimari, A; Ercolani, G; Grazi, G L; Pinna, A D; Grigioni, W F; D'Errico Grigioni, A

2005-04-01

Connective tissue growth factor is a member of the 'CCN' protein family. Consistent with its profibrotic properties, it is over-expressed in several human epithelial malignancies. We have retrospectively evaluated by immunohistochemistry the presence of connective tissue growth factor in archival tissues from 55 resected intrahepatic cholangiocarcinomas and compared its expression to the main pathological parameters, disease free and overall survival. Tumours were scored as high and low/absent expressers (> or =50%, 0-50% cells, respectively). Thirty-three of 55 cholangiocarcinomas (60%) were high and 22 (40%) low expressers. No significant correlation was found between connective tissue growth factor and tumour grade, tumour location, vascular and perineural invasion. Eighteen of 22 (82%) low/absent expressers and 12/33 (36%) high expressers had recurrence of disease (P=0.001). Low/absent expressers showed a poor disease free and overall survival compared with the higher expressers (P<0.001). Vascular invasion was related to tumour recurrence (P=0.025) and to decreased disease free survival (P<0.05). During proportional hazard regression analysis, only connective tissue growth factor was found to influence disease free survival (P=0.01). Expression of connective tissue growth factor is an independent prognostic indicator of both tumour recurrence and overall survival for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma patients regardless of tumour location, tumour grade, vascular and perineural invasion.

[The gastrointestinal tract microbiom in connective tissue diseases].

PubMed

Krajewska-Włodarczyk, Magdalena

Factors such as genetics, the environment, infections, and the human body microbiota, mainly gastrointestinal tract microbiota may play a role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders. There is an increasing evidence that suggest an association between gastrointestinal tract dysbiosis, and in particular gut dysbiosis, and connective tissue diseases but it still remains unclear whether alterations in the microbiome are a pathogenic cause or an effect of autoimmune disease. Given the strong variability and abundance of microbes living in close relation with human host, it becomes a difficult task to define what should be considered the normal or the favorable microbiome. Further studies are needed to establish how the human microbiome contributes to disease susceptibility, and to characterize the role of microbial diversity in the pathogenesis of connective tissue diseases and their clinical manifestations. The identification of dysbiosis specific for certain connective tissue diseases may help in the development of an individualized management for each patient. This review aims to summarize current data on the role of the gastrointestinal tract microbiome in connective tissue diseases.

A theoretical approach of the relationships between collagen content, collagen cross-links and meat tenderness.

PubMed

Lepetit, J

2007-05-01

This work concerns the relationship between meat tenderness and the rubber-like properties, i.e. pressure and elastic modulus, that endomysium and perimysium connective tissues develop when meat has been heated to a temperature above which collagen contracts. For rest length meats with similar intramuscular connective tissue morphology, and which are at the same ageing state and pH, the elastic modulus of the collagenous fraction of connective tissues is approximately proportional to the total number of collagen cross-links present per volume of meat. Calculations from various published experiments concerned with the effect on tenderness of muscle type, animal age, type, and sex from different species show that this modulus follows most of the variations of meat toughness. Moreover, the proportionality between the increase in this elastic modulus and the increase in meat toughness approaches unity in situations where toughness mainly depends on connective tissues. This work demonstrates the decisive role of rubber-like properties of connective tissues in meat tenderness variations.

Laser speckle contrast imaging of collateral blood flow during acute ischemic stroke

PubMed Central

Armitage, Glenn A; Todd, Kathryn G; Shuaib, Ashfaq; Winship, Ian R

2010-01-01

Collateral vasculature may provide an alternative route for blood flow to reach the ischemic tissue and partially maintain oxygen and nutrient support during ischemic stroke. However, much about the dynamics of stroke-induced collateralization remains unknown. In this study, we used laser speckle contrast imaging to map dynamic changes in collateral blood flow after middle cerebral artery occlusion in rats. We identified extensive anastomatic connections between the anterior and middle cerebral arteries that develop after vessel occlusion and persist for 24 hours. Augmenting blood flow through these persistent yet dynamic anastomatic connections may be an important but relatively unexplored avenue in stroke therapy. PMID:20517321

The Architecture of the Connective Tissue in the Musculoskeletal System—An Often Overlooked Functional Parameter as to Proprioception in the Locomotor Apparatus

PubMed Central

van der Wal, Jaap

2009-01-01

The architecture of the connective tissue, including structures such as fasciae, sheaths, and membranes, is more important for understanding functional meaning than is more traditional anatomy, whose anatomical dissection method neglects and denies the continuity of the connective tissue as integrating matrix of the body. The connective tissue anatomy and architecture exhibits two functional tendencies that are present in all areas of the body in different ways and relationships. In body cavities, the “disconnecting” quality of shaping space enables mobility; between organs and body parts, the “connecting” dimension enables functional mechanical interactions. In the musculoskeletal system, those two features of the connective tissue are also present. They cannot be found by the usual analytic dissection procedures. An architectural description is necessary. This article uses such a methodologic approach and gives such a description for the lateral elbow region. The result is an alternative architectural view of the anatomic substrate involved in the transmission and conveyance of forces over synovial joints. An architectural description of the muscular and connective tissue organized in series with each other to enable the transmission of forces over these dynamic entities is more appropriate than is the classical concept of “passive” force-guiding structures such as ligaments organized in parallel to actively force-transmitting structures such as muscles with tendons. The discrimination between so-called joint receptors and muscle receptors is an artificial distinction when function is considered. Mechanoreceptors, also the so-called muscle receptors, are arranged in the context of force circumstances—that is, of the architecture of muscle and connective tissue rather than of the classical anatomic structures such as muscle, capsules, and ligaments. In the lateral cubital region of the rat, a spectrum of mechanosensitive substrate occurs at the transitional areas between regular dense connective tissue layers and the muscle fascicles organized in series with them. This substrate exhibits features of type and location of the mechanosensitive nerve terminals that usually are considered characteristic for “joint receptors” as well as for “muscle receptors.” The receptors for proprioception are concentrated in those areas where tensile stresses are conveyed over the elbow joint. Structures cannot be divided into either joint receptors or muscle receptors when muscular and collagenous connective tissue structures function in series to maintain joint integrity and stability. In vivo, those connective tissue structures are strained during movements of the skeletal parts, those movements in turn being induced and led by tension in muscular tissue. In principle, because of the architecture, receptors can also be stimulated by changes in muscle tension without skeletal movement, or by skeletal movement without change in muscle tension. A mutual relationship exists between structure (and function) of the mechanoreceptors and the architecture of the muscular and regular dense connective tissue. Both are instrumental in the coding of proprioceptive information to the central nervous system. PMID:21589740

Designing the stem cell microenvironment for guided connective tissue regeneration.

PubMed

Bogdanowicz, Danielle R; Lu, Helen H

2017-12-01

Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are an attractive cell source for regenerative medicine because of their ability to self-renew and their capacity for multilineage differentiation and tissue regeneration. For connective tissues, such as ligaments or tendons, MSCs are vital to the modulation of the inflammatory response following acute injury while also interacting with resident fibroblasts to promote cell proliferation and matrix synthesis. To date, MSC injection for connective tissue repair has yielded mixed results in vivo, likely due to a lack of appropriate environmental cues to effectively control MSC response and promote tissue healing instead of scar formation. In healthy tissues, stem cells reside within a complex microenvironment comprising cellular, structural, and signaling cues that collectively maintain stemness and modulate tissue homeostasis. Changes to the microenvironment following injury regulate stem cell differentiation, trophic signaling, and tissue healing. Here, we focus on models of the stem cell microenvironment that are used to elucidate the mechanisms of stem cell regulation and inspire functional approaches to tissue regeneration. Recent studies in this frontier area are highlighted, focusing on how microenvironmental cues modulate MSC response following connective tissue injury and, more importantly, how this unique cell environment can be programmed for stem cell-guided tissue regeneration. © 2017 New York Academy of Sciences.

Stromal cell-based immunotherapy in transplantation.

PubMed

Charles, Ronald; Lu, Lina; Qian, Shiguang; Fung, John J

2011-12-01

Organs are composed of parenchymal cells that characterize organ function and nonparenchymal cells that are composed of cells in transit, as well as tissue connective tissue, also referred to as tissue stromal cells. It was originally thought that these tissue stromal cells provided only structural and functional support for parenchymal cells and were relatively inert. However, we have come to realize that tissue stromal cells, not restricted to in the thymus and lymphoid organs, also play an active role in modulating the immune system and its response to antigens. The recognition of these elements and the elucidation of their mechanisms of action have provided valuable insight into peripheral immune regulation. Extrapolation of these principles may allow us to utilize their potential for clinical application. In this article, we will summarize a number of tissue stromal elements/cell types that have been shown to induce hyporesponsiveness to transplants. We will also discuss the mechanisms by which these stromal cells create a tolerogenic environment, which in turn results in long-term allograft survival.

Understanding the effect of pulsed electric fields on thermostability of connective tissue isolated from beef pectoralis muscle using a model system.

PubMed

Alahakoon, A U; Oey, I; Silcock, P; Bremer, P

2017-10-01

Brisket is a low value/tough meat cut that contains a large amount of connective tissue. Conversion of collagen into gelatin during heating reduces the toughness of the connective tissue however this conversion is slow at low cooking temperatures (around 60°C). The objective of this project was to determine the ability of pulsed electric field (PEF) processing to reduce the thermal stability of connective tissue. To achieve this, a novel model system was designed in which connective tissue obtained from beef deep pectotalis muscle (brisket) was exposed to PEF at combinations of electric field strength (1.0 and 1.5kV/cm) and specific energy (50 and 100kJ/kg) within an agar matrix at electrical conductivities representing the electrical conductivity found in brisket. Differential scanning calorimetry showed that PEF treatment significantly (p<0.05) decreased the denaturation temperature of connective tissue compared to untreated samples. Increasing electric field strength and the specific energy increased the Ringer soluble collagen fraction. PEF treated samples showed higher solubilization compared to the untreated samples at both 60°C and 70°C in heat solubility test. SEM examination of PEF treated (at 1.5kV/cm and 100kJ/kg) and untreated samples revealed that PEF appeared to increase the porosity of the connective tissue structure. These finding suggest that PEF processing is a technology that could be used to improve the tenderness and decrease the cooking time of collagen rich, meat cuts. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Deep nuclear invaginations are linked to cytoskeletal filaments – integrated bioimaging of epithelial cells in 3D culture

PubMed Central

Inman, Jamie L.; Wojcik, Michal; Robertson, Claire; Tsai, Wen-Ting; Huang, Haina; Bruni-Cardoso, Alexandre; López, Claudia S.; Bissell, Mina J.; Xu, Ke

2017-01-01

ABSTRACT The importance of context in regulation of gene expression is now an accepted principle; yet the mechanism by which the microenvironment communicates with the nucleus and chromatin in healthy tissues is poorly understood. A functional role for nuclear and cytoskeletal architecture is suggested by the phenotypic differences observed between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Capitalizing on recent advances in cryogenic techniques, volume electron microscopy and super-resolution light microscopy, we studied human mammary epithelial cells in three-dimensional (3D) cultures forming growth-arrested acini. Intriguingly, we found deep nuclear invaginations and tunnels traversing the nucleus, encasing cytoskeletal actin and/or intermediate filaments, which connect to the outer nuclear envelope. The cytoskeleton is also connected both to other cells through desmosome adhesion complexes and to the extracellular matrix through hemidesmosomes. This finding supports a physical and/or mechanical link from the desmosomes and hemidesmosomes to the nucleus, which had previously been hypothesized but now is visualized for the first time. These unique structures, including the nuclear invaginations and the cytoskeletal connectivity to the cell nucleus, are consistent with a dynamic reciprocity between the nucleus and the outside of epithelial cells and tissues. PMID:27505896

Deep nuclear invaginations are linked to cytoskeletal filaments – integrated bioimaging of epithelial cells in 3D culture

DOE PAGES

Jorgens, Danielle M.; Inman, Jamie L.; Wojcik, Michal; ...

2016-08-05

The importance of context in regulation of gene expression is now an accepted principle; yet the mechanism by which the microenvironment communicates with the nucleus and chromatin in healthy tissues is poorly understood. A functional role for nuclear and cytoskeletal architecture is suggested by the phenotypic differences observed between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Capitalizing on recent advances in cryogenic techniques, volume electron microscopy and super-resolution light microscopy, we studied human mammary epithelial cells in three-dimensional (3D) cultures forming growtharrested acini. Intriguingly, we found deep nuclear invaginations and tunnels traversing the nucleus, encasing cytoskeletal actin and/or intermediate filaments, which connect tomore » the outer nuclear envelope. Also, the cytoskeleton is connected both to other cells through desmosome adhesion complexes and to the extracellular matrix through hemidesmosomes. This finding supports a physical and/or mechanical link from the desmosomes and hemidesmosomes to the nucleus, which had previously been hypothesized but now is visualized for the first time. These unique structures, including the nuclear invaginations and the cytoskeletal connectivity to the cell nucleus, are consistent with a dynamic reciprocity between the nucleus and the outside of epithelial cells and tissues.« less

Enlarged Dural Sac in Idiopathic Bronchiectasis Implicates Heritable Connective Tissue Gene Variants

PubMed Central

Birchard, Katherine R.; Lowe, Jared R.; Patrone, Michael V.

2016-01-01

Rationale: Patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis are predominantly female and have an asthenic body morphotype and frequent nontuberculous mycobacterial respiratory infections. They also demonstrate phenotypic features (scoliosis, pectus deformity, mitral valve prolapse) that are commonly seen in individuals with heritable connective tissue disorders. Objectives: To determine whether lumbar dural sac size is increased in patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis as compared with control subjects, and to assess whether dural sac size is correlated with phenotypic characteristics seen in individuals with heritable connective tissue disorders. Methods: Two readers blinded to diagnosis measured anterior–posterior and transverse dural sac diameter using L1–L5 magnetic resonance images of 71 patients with idiopathic bronchiectasis, 72 control subjects without lung disease, 29 patients with cystic fibrosis, and 24 patients with Marfan syndrome. We compared groups by pairwise analysis of means, using Tukey’s method to adjust for multiple comparisons. Dural sac diameter association with phenotypic and clinical features was also tested. Measurements and Main Results: The L1–L5 (average) anterior–posterior dural sac diameter of the idiopathic bronchiectasis group was larger than those of the control group (P < 0.001) and the cystic fibrosis group (P = 0.002). There was a strong correlation between increased dural sac size and the presence of pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection (P = 0.007) and long fingers (P = 0.003). A trend toward larger dural sac diameter was seen in those with scoliosis (P = 0.130) and those with a family history of idiopathic bronchiectasis (P = 0.149). Conclusions: Individuals with idiopathic bronchiectasis have an enlarged dural sac diameter, which is associated with pulmonary nontuberculous mycobacterial infection, long fingers, and family history of idiopathic bronchiectasis. These findings support our hypothesis that “idiopathic” bronchiectasis development reflects complex genetic variation in heritable connective tissue and associated transforming growth factor-β–related pathway genes. PMID:27409985

Morphological and biochemical studies of the elastic fibres in the craniomandibular joint articular disc of the tight-skin mouse.

PubMed

O'dell, N L; Burlison, S K; Starcher, B C; Pennington, C B

1996-05-01

The tight-skin (TSK) mouse is characterized by the hyperplasia of loose connective tissues, and of excessive growth of cartilage and of bones including the mandible. Since the fibroelastic connective tissues of the craniomandibular joint (CMJ) are essential to the functions of this joint, the present histological study compared the presence and general distribution of elastic fibres in CMJ discal tissues of TSK and normal mice. The excised CMJs were processed for light microscopy. The tissues were fixed, demineralized, embedded in paraffin, sectioned and then stained with resorcin-fuchsin to demonstrate elastic fibres. There were no obvious histological differences in either the amount or the distribution of elastic fibres in the discs from the two groups. In both groups, elastic fibres were found in the disc and in many of the attachments of the disc to the mandible and squamosal bone. In addition to the morphological preparations, articular discs and samples of lung tissue were excised from other mice and subjected to a radioimmunoassay for desmosine in order to estimate the amounts of elastin in these tissues; the amount of elastin was significantly reduced in the TSK lung, but the amounts of elastin in the TSK and normal CMJ discal tissues were not significantly different statistically. These morphological and histochemical results suggest that the distribution and quantity of elastic fibres in the TSK mouse disc are not significantly different from those in the normal mouse articular disc. Moreover, these data may be interpreted to either suggest a differential effect on the elastic fibres in different TSK tissues, or to support the suggestion that abnormal degradation of elastic fibres may not be characteristic of the TSK mouse.

Whole-body tissue stabilization and selective extractions via tissue-hydrogel hybrids for high-resolution intact circuit mapping and phenotyping

PubMed Central

Treweek, Jennifer B; Deverman, Benjamin E; Greenbaum, Alon; Lignell, Antti; Xiao, Cheng; Cai, Long; Ladinsky, Mark S; Bjorkman, Pamela J; Fowlkes, Charless C; Gradinaru, Viviana

2016-01-01

To facilitate fine-scale phenotyping of whole specimens, we describe here a set of tissue fixation-embedding, detergent-clearing and staining protocols that can be used to transform excised organs and whole organisms into optically transparent samples within 1–2 weeks without compromising their cellular architecture or endogenous fluorescence. PACT (passive CLARITY technique) and PARS (perfusion-assisted agent release in situ) use tissue-hydrogel hybrids to stabilize tissue biomolecules during selective lipid extraction, resulting in enhanced clearing efficiency and sample integrity. Furthermore, the macromolecule permeability of PACT- and PARS-processed tissue hybrids supports the diffusion of immunolabels throughout intact tissue, whereas RIMS (refractive index matching solution) grants high-resolution imaging at depth by further reducing light scattering in cleared and uncleared samples alike. These methods are adaptable to difficult-to-image tissues, such as bone (PACT-deCAL), and to magnified single-cell visualization (ePACT). Together, these protocols and solutions enable phenotyping of subcellular components and tracing cellular connectivity in intact biological networks. PMID:26492141

The serum levels of connective tissue growth factor in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis.

PubMed

Wang, F-M; Yu, F; Tan, Y; Liu, G; Zhao, M-H

2014-06-01

The expression of connective tissue growth factor mRNA in human kidneys may serve as an early marker for lupus nephritis progression. Therefore, we speculated that connective tissue growth factor may be involved in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis. In this study, we set out to investigate the associations between serum connective tissue growth factor levels and clinicopathological features of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis. Serum samples from patients with non-renal systemic lupus erythematosus, renal biopsy-proven lupus nephritis and healthy control subjects were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for serum connective tissue growth factor levels. The associations between connective tissue growth factor levels and clinicopathological features of the patients were further analysed. The levels of serum connective tissue growth factor in patients with non-renal systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis were both significantly higher than those in the normal control group (34.14 ± 12.17 ng/ml vs. 22.8 ± 3.0 ng/ml, p<0.001; 44.1 ± 46.8 ng/ml vs. 22.8 ± 3.0 ng/ml, p = 0.035, respectively). There was no significant difference of the serum connective tissue growth factor levels between non-renal systemic lupus erythematosus and lupus nephritis group (34.14 ± 12.17 ng/ml vs. 44.1 ± 46.8 ng/ml, p = 0.183). Serum connective tissue growth factor levels were significantly higher in lupus nephritis patients with the following clinical manifestations, including anaemia (51.3 ± 51.4 ng/ml vs. 23.4 ± 9.7 ng/ml, p<0.001) and acute renal failure (85.5 ± 75.0 ng/ml vs. 31.2 ± 21.8 ng/ml, p = 0.002). Serum connective tissue growth factor levels in class IV were significantly higher than that in class II, III and V (57.6 ± 57.5 ng/ml vs. 18.7 ± 6.4 ng/ml, p = 0.019; 57.6 ± 57.5 ng/ml vs. 25.2 ± 14.9 ng/ml, p = 0.006; 57.6 ± 57.5 ng/ml vs. 30.5 ± 21.3 ng/ml, p = 0.017, respectively). Serum connective tissue growth factor levels were significantly higher in those with both active/chronic lesions than those in those with active lesions only in either class IV (84.9 ± 69.6 ng/ml vs. 40.0 ± 40.2 ng/ml, p = 0.001) or in combination of class III and IV lupus nephritis (63.3 ± 63.4 ng/ml vs. 38.3 ± 37.9 ng/ml, p = 0.035, respectively). Serum connective tissue growth factor levels were negatively associated with estimated glomerular filtration rate (r = -0.46, p<0.001) and positively associated with interstitial inflammation (r = 0.309, p = 0.002) and interstitial fibrosis (r = 0.287, p = 0.004). Serum connective tissue growth factor level was a risk factor for doubling of serum creatinine in lupus nephritis (p<0.001, hazard ratio = 1.015, 95% confidence intervals 1.008-1.022) in univariate analysis. Serum connective tissue growth factor levels were significantly higher in lupus and correlated with chronic renal interstitial injury and doubling of serum creatinine in patients with lupus nephritis. © The Author(s) 2014 Reprints and permissions: sagepub.co.uk/journalsPermissions.nav.

A novel chemically modified curcumin reduces inflammation-mediated connective tissue breakdown in a rat model of diabetes: periodontal and systemic effects.

PubMed

Elburki, M S; Moore, D D; Terezakis, N G; Zhang, Y; Lee, H-M; Johnson, F; Golub, L M

2017-04-01

Periodontal disease is the most common chronic inflammatory disease known to mankind (and the major cause of tooth loss in the adult population) and has also been linked to various systemic diseases, particularly diabetes mellitus. Based on the literature linking periodontal disease with diabetes in a "bidirectional manner", the objectives of the current study were to determine: (i) the effect of a model of periodontitis, complicated by diabetes, on mechanisms of tissue breakdown including bone loss; and (ii) the response of the combination of this local and systemic phenotype to a novel pleiotropic matrix metalloproteinase inhibitor, chemically modified curcumin (CMC) 2.24. Diabetes was induced in adult male rats by intravenous injection of streptozotocin (nondiabetic rats served as controls), and Escherichia coli endotoxin (lipopolysaccharide) was repeatedly injected into the gingiva to induce periodontitis. CMC 2.24 was administered by oral gavage (30 mg/kg) daily; untreated diabetic rats received vehicle alone. After 3 wk of treatment, the rats were killed, and gingiva, jaws, tibia and skin were collected. The maxillary jaws and tibia were dissected and radiographed. The gingival tissues of each experimental group (n = 6 rats/group) were pooled, extracted, partially purified and, together with individual skin samples, analyzed for matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 by gelatin zymography; MMP-8 was analyzed in gingival and skin tissue extracts, and in serum, by western blotting. The levels of three bone-resorptive cytokines [interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α], were measured in gingival tissue extracts and serum by ELISA. Systemic administration of CMC 2.24 to diabetic rats with endotoxin-induced periodontitis significantly inhibited alveolar bone loss and attenuated the severity of local and systemic inflammation. Moreover, this novel tri-ketonic phenylaminocarbonyl curcumin (CMC 2.24) appeared to reduce the pathologically excessive levels of inducible MMPs to near-normal levels, but appeared to have no significant effect on the constitutive MMPs required for physiologic connective tissue turnover. In addition to the beneficial effects on periodontal disease, induced both locally and systemically, CMC 2.24 also favorably affected extra-oral connective tissues, skin and skeletal bone. This study supports our hypothesis that CMC 2.24 is a potential therapeutic pleiotropic MMP inhibitor, with both intracellular and extracellular effects, which reduces local and systemic inflammation and prevents hyperglycemia- and bacteria-induced connective tissue destruction. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Human Periodontal Cells Demonstrate Osteoblast-Like and Fibroblast-Like Characteristics in Tissue Culture

DTIC Science & Technology

1989-05-05

gingiva and periodontal ligament emphasizes similarities between the connective tissues of gingiva and periodontal ligament. Possible regeneration of...Clinicians and researchers gradually realized the importance of periodontal ligament granulation tissue in periodontal regeneration (Melcher, 1976...isolated osseous defects. The guided tissue regeneration technique uses membrane filters to isolate healing periodontal defects from gingival connective

Periodontal Wound Healing Responses to Varying Oxygen Concentrations and Atmospheric Pressures.

DTIC Science & Technology

1986-05-01

Presumably, epithelial and gingival connective tissue exclusion allowed periodontal ligament cells to repopulate the wound and to regenerate a new...However, it seems clear that the periodontal ligament cells provide a major source of connective tissue attachment and regeneration (Nyman et al., 1982a...Connective Tissue Regeneration to Periodontally Diseased Teeth. J. Perio. Res. 15:1. Davis, J. C., Dunn, J. M., Gates, G. A. and Heimbach, R. D. 1979

An update of neurological manifestations of vasculitides and connective tissue diseases: a literature review

PubMed Central

Bougea, Anastasia; Anagnostou, Evangelos; Spandideas, Nikolaos; Triantafyllou, Nikolaos; Kararizou, Evangelia

2015-01-01

Vasculitides comprise a heterogeneous group of autoimmune disorders, occurring as primary or secondary to a broad variety of systemic infectious, malignant or connective tissue diseases. The latter occur more often but their pathogenic mechanisms have not been fully established. Frequent and varied central and peripheral nervous system complications occur in vasculitides and connective tissue diseases. In many cases, the neurological disorders have an atypical clinical course or even an early onset, and the healthcare professionals should be aware of them. The purpose of this brief review was to give an update of the main neurological disorders of common vasculitis and connective tissue diseases, aiming at accurate diagnosis and management, with an emphasis on pathophysiologic mechanisms. PMID:26313435

[Connective tissue and inflammation].

PubMed

Jakab, Lajos

2014-03-23

The author summarizes the structure of the connective tissues, the increasing motion of the constituents, which determine the role in establishing the structure and function of that. The structure and function of the connective tissue are related to each other in the resting as well as inflammatory states. It is emphasized that cellular events in the connective tissue are part of the defence of the organism, the localisation of the damage and, if possible, the maintenance of restitutio ad integrum. The organism responds to damage with inflammation, the non specific immune response, as well as specific, adaptive immunity. These processes are located in the connective tissue. Sterile and pathogenic inflammation are relatively similar processes, but inevitable differences are present, too. Sialic acids and glycoproteins containing sialic acids have important roles, and the role of Siglecs is also highlighted. Also, similarities and differences in damages caused by pathogens and sterile agents are briefly summarized. In addition, the roles of adhesion molecules linked to each other, and the whole event of inflammatory processes are presented. When considering practical consequences it is stressed that the structure (building up) of the organism and the defending function of inflammation both have fundamental importance. Inflammation has a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and the unimpaired somato-psychological state of the organism. Thus, inflammation serves as a tool of organism identical with the natural immune response, inseparably connected with the specific, adaptive immune response. The main events of the inflammatory processes take place in the connective tissue.

The Zinc Transporter SLC39A13/ZIP13 Is Required for Connective Tissue Development; Its Involvement in BMP/TGF-β Signaling Pathways

PubMed Central

Shimoda, Shinji; Mishima, Kenji; Higashiyama, Hiroyuki; Idaira, Yayoi; Asada, Yoshinobu; Kitamura, Hiroshi; Yamasaki, Satoru; Hojyo, Shintaro; Nakayama, Manabu; Ohara, Osamu; Koseki, Haruhiko; dos Santos, Heloisa G.; Bonafe, Luisa; Ha-Vinh, Russia; Zankl, Andreas; Unger, Sheila; Kraenzlin, Marius E.; Beckmann, Jacques S.; Saito, Ichiro; Rivolta, Carlo; Ikegawa, Shiro; Superti-Furga, Andrea; Hirano, Toshio

2008-01-01

Background Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element and it is abundant in connective tissues, however biological roles of Zn and its transporters in those tissues and cells remain unknown. Methodology/Principal Findings Here we report that mice deficient in Zn transporter Slc39a13/Zip13 show changes in bone, teeth and connective tissue reminiscent of the clinical spectrum of human Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). The Slc39a13 knockout (Slc39a13-KO) mice show defects in the maturation of osteoblasts, chondrocytes, odontoblasts, and fibroblasts. In the corresponding tissues and cells, impairment in bone morphogenic protein (BMP) and TGF-β signaling were observed. Homozygosity for a SLC39A13 loss of function mutation was detected in sibs affected by a unique variant of EDS that recapitulates the phenotype observed in Slc39a13-KO mice. Conclusions/Significance Hence, our results reveal a crucial role of SLC39A13/ZIP13 in connective tissue development at least in part due to its involvement in the BMP/TGF-β signaling pathways. The Slc39a13-KO mouse represents a novel animal model linking zinc metabolism, BMP/TGF-β signaling and connective tissue dysfunction. PMID:18985159

Effect of MELT method on thoracolumbar connective tissue: The full study.

PubMed

Sanjana, Faria; Chaudhry, Hans; Findley, Thomas

2017-01-01

Altered connective tissue structure has been identified in adults with chronic low back pain (LBP). A self-care treatment for managing LBP is the MELT method. The MELT method is a hands-off, self-treatment that is said to alleviate chronic pain, release tension and restore mobility, utilizing specialized soft treatments balls, soft body roller and techniques mimicking manual therapy. The objective of this study was to determine whether thickness of thoracolumbar connective tissue and biomechanical and viscoelastic properties of myofascial tissue in the low back region change in subjects with chronic LBP as a result of MELT. This study was designed using a quasi experimental pre-post- design that analyzed data from subjects who performed MELT. Using ultrasound imaging and an algorithm developed in MATLAB, thickness of thoracolumbar connective tissue was analyzed in 22 subjects. A hand-held digital palpation device, called the MyotonPRO, was used to assess biomechanical properties such as stiffness, elasticity, tone and mechanical stress relaxation time of the thoracolumbar myofascial tissue. A forward bending test assessing flexibility and pain scale was added to see if MELT affected subjects with chronic LBP. A significant decrease in connective tissue thickness and pain was observed in participants. Significant increase in flexibility was also recorded. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease connections with fat-free tissues: A focus on bone and skeletal muscle

PubMed Central

Poggiogalle, Eleonora; Donini, Lorenzo Maria; Lenzi, Andrea; Chiesa, Claudio; Pacifico, Lucia

2017-01-01

The estimates of global incidence and prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are worrisome, due to the parallel burden of obesity and its metabolic complications. Indeed, excess adiposity and insulin resistance represent two of the major risk factors for NAFLD; interestingly, in the last years a growing body of evidence tended to support a novel mechanistic perspective, in which the liver is at the center of a complex interplay involving organs and systems, other than adipose tissue and glucose homeostasis. Bone and the skeletal muscle are fat- free tissues which appeared to be independently associated with NAFLD in several cross-sectional studies. The deterioration of bone mineral density and lean body mass, leading to osteoporosis and sarcopenia, respectively, are age-related processes. The prevalence of NAFLD also increases with age. Beyond physiological aging, the three conditions share some common underlying mechanisms, and their elucidations could be of paramount importance to design more effective treatment strategies for the management of NAFLD. In this review, we provide an overview on epidemiological data as well as on potential contributors to the connections of NAFLD with bone and skeletal muscle. PMID:28348479

Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum is a Metabolic Disease

PubMed Central

Jiang, Qiujie; Endoh, Masayuki; Dibra, Florian; Wang, Krystle; Uitto, Jouni

2011-01-01

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is a pleiotropic multisystem disorder affecting skin, eyes, and the cardiovascular system with progressive pathological mineralization. It is caused by mutations in the ABCC6 gene expressed primarily in the liver and kidneys, and at very low levels, if at all, in tissues affected by PXE. A question has arisen regarding the pathomechanism of PXE, particularly the “metabolic” versus the “PXE cell” hypotheses. We examined a murine PXE model (Abcc6−/−) by transplanting muzzle skin from knock-out (KO) and wild-type (WT) mice onto the back of WT and KO mice using mineralization of the connective tissue capsule surrounding the vibrissae as an early phenotypic biomarker. Grafting of WT mouse muzzle skin onto the back of KO mice resulted in mineralization of vibrissae, while grafting KO mouse muzzle skin onto the WT mice did not. Thus, these findings implicate circulatory factors as a critical component of the mineralization process. This mouse grafting model supports the notion that PXE is a systemic metabolic disorder with secondary mineralization of connective tissues and that the mineralization process can be countered or even reversed by changes in the homeostatic milieu. PMID:18685618

A long-distance fluid transport pathway within fibrous connective tissues in patients with ankle edema.

PubMed

Li, Hongyi; Yang, Chongqing; Lu, Kuiyuan; Zhang, Liyang; Yang, Jiefu; Wang, Fang; Liu, Dongge; Cui, Di; Sun, Mingjun; Pang, Jianxin; Dai, Luru; Han, Dong; Liao, Fulong

2016-10-05

Although the microcirculatory dysfunctions of edema formation are well documented, the draining pattern of dermal edema lacks information. This study was to assess the potential drainage pathways of the interstitial fluid in patients with ankle edema using the anatomical and histological methods. Four amputees of lower leg participated in this study. Fluorescent imaging agent was injected into lateral ankle dermis in one volunteered patient before the amputation and three lower legs after the amputation. Physiologically in the volunteer or enhanced by cyclical compression on three amputated limbs, several fluorescent longitudinal pathways from ankle dermis to the broken end of the amputated legs were subsequently visualized and studied using histological methods, laser confocal microscopy and electron microscopy methods respectively. Interestingly, the fluorescent pathways confirmed to be fibrous connective tissues and the presence of two types: those of the cutaneous pathway (located in dermis or the interlobular septum among adipose tissues within the hypodermis) and those of the perivascular pathway (located in connective tissues surrounding the veins and the arteries). The intrinsic three-dimensional architecture of each fluorescent pathway was the longitudinally running and interconnected fibril bundles, upon which, an interfacial transport pathway within connective tissues was visualized by fluorescein. The current anatomical data suggested that a unique long-distance transport pathway composed of oriented fibrous connective tissues might play a pathophysiological role in draining dermal edema besides vascular circulations and provide novel understandings of general fibrous connective tissues in life science.

Sensory Innervation of the Nonspecialized Connective Tissues in the Low Back of the Rat

PubMed Central

Corey, Sarah M.; Vizzard, Margaret A.; Badger, Gary J.; Langevin, Helene M.

2011-01-01

Chronic musculoskeletal pain, including low back pain, is a worldwide debilitating condition; however, the mechanisms that underlie its development remain poorly understood. Pathological neuroplastic changes in the sensory innervation of connective tissue may contribute to the development of nonspecific chronic low back pain. Progress in understanding such potentially important abnormalities is hampered by limited knowledge of connective tissue's normal sensory innervation. The goal of this study was to evaluate and quantify the sensory nerve fibers terminating within the nonspecialized connective tissues in the low back of the rat. With 3-dimensional reconstructions of thick (30–80 μm) tissue sections we have for the first time conclusively identified sensory nerve fiber terminations within the collagen matrix of connective tissue in the low back. Using dye labeling techniques with Fast Blue, presumptive dorsal root ganglia cells that innervate the low back were identified. Of the Fast Blue-labeled cells, 60–88% also expressed calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) immunoreactivity. Based on the immunolabeling with CGRP and the approximate size of these nerve fibers (≤2 μm) we hypothesize that they are Aδ or C fibers and thus may play a role in the development of chronic pain. PMID:21411968

Micromechanical modeling of rate-dependent behavior of Connective tissues.

PubMed

Fallah, A; Ahmadian, M T; Firozbakhsh, K; Aghdam, M M

2017-03-07

In this paper, a constitutive and micromechanical model for prediction of rate-dependent behavior of connective tissues (CTs) is presented. Connective tissues are considered as nonlinear viscoelastic material. The rate-dependent behavior of CTs is incorporated into model using the well-known quasi-linear viscoelasticity (QLV) theory. A planar wavy representative volume element (RVE) is considered based on the tissue microstructure histological evidences. The presented model parameters are identified based on the available experiments in the literature. The presented constitutive model introduced to ABAQUS by means of UMAT subroutine. Results show that, monotonic uniaxial test predictions of the presented model at different strain rates for rat tail tendon (RTT) and human patellar tendon (HPT) are in good agreement with experimental data. Results of incremental stress-relaxation test are also presented to investigate both instantaneous and viscoelastic behavior of connective tissues. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Biological Connection Markup Language: a SBGN-compliant format for visualization, filtering and analysis of biological pathways.

PubMed

Beltrame, Luca; Calura, Enrica; Popovici, Razvan R; Rizzetto, Lisa; Guedez, Damariz Rivero; Donato, Michele; Romualdi, Chiara; Draghici, Sorin; Cavalieri, Duccio

2011-08-01

Many models and analysis of signaling pathways have been proposed. However, neither of them takes into account that a biological pathway is not a fixed system, but instead it depends on the organism, tissue and cell type as well as on physiological, pathological and experimental conditions. The Biological Connection Markup Language (BCML) is a format to describe, annotate and visualize pathways. BCML is able to store multiple information, permitting a selective view of the pathway as it exists and/or behave in specific organisms, tissues and cells. Furthermore, BCML can be automatically converted into data formats suitable for analysis and into a fully SBGN-compliant graphical representation, making it an important tool that can be used by both computational biologists and 'wet lab' scientists. The XML schema and the BCML software suite are freely available under the LGPL for download at http://bcml.dc-atlas.net. They are implemented in Java and supported on MS Windows, Linux and OS X.

Hypericin-mediated selective photomodification of connective tissues

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

Hovhannisyan, V., E-mail: hovv@phys.ntu.edu.tw; Guo, H. W.; Chen, Y. F., E-mail: yfchen@phys.ntu.edu.tw

2014-12-29

Controllable modification of biological molecules and supramolecular components of connective tissue are important for biophysical and biomedical applications. Through the use of second harmonic generation imaging, two-photon fluorescence microscopy, and spectrofluorimetry, we found that hypericin, a natural pigment, induces photosensitized destruction of collagen fibers but does not affect elastic fibers and lipids in chicken tendon, skin, and blood vessels. We demonstrated the dynamics and efficiency of collagen photomodification and investigated mechanisms of this processes. Our results suggest that hypericin–mediated photoprocesses in biological tissues may be useful in biomedical applications that require selective modification of connective tissues.

Agminated Fibroblastic Conective Tissue Nevus: A New Clinical Presentation.

PubMed

Downey, Camila; Requena, Luis; Bagué, Silvia; Sánchez Martínez, Miquel Ángel; Lloreta, Josep; Baselga, Eulalia

2016-07-01

Connective tissue nevi are benign hamartomatous lesions in which one or several of the components of the dermis (collagen, elastin, glicosaminoglycans) show predominance or depletion. Recently, de Feraudy et al broadened the spectrum of connective tissue nevus, describing fibroblastic connective tissue nevus (FCTN), which is characterized by proliferation of CD34(+) cells of fibroblastic and myofibroblastic lineage. Only solitary papules and nodules have been described. We present the first case of FCTN with multiple agminated lesions on the leg of an infant and the difficulties encountered in the differential diagnosis with dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Validation of color Doppler sonography for evaluating relative displacement between the flexor tendon and subsynovial connective tissue.

PubMed

Tat, Jimmy; Kociolek, Aaron M; Keir, Peter J

2015-04-01

A common pathologic finding in carpal tunnel syndrome is fibrosis and thickening of the subsynovial connective tissue. This finding suggests an etiology of excessive shear forces, with relative longitudinal displacement between the flexor tendon and adjacent subsynovial connective tissue. The purpose of this study was to validate color Doppler sonography for measurement of tendon displacement over time. Eight unmatched fresh frozen cadaver arms were used to evaluate color Doppler sonography for measurement of tendon displacement. The middle flexor digitorum superficialis tendon was moved through a physiologic excursion of 20 mm at 3 different tendon velocities (50, 100, and 150 mm/s). We found that color Doppler sonography provided accurate measurement of tendon displacement, with absolute errors of -0.05 mm (50 mm/s), -1.24 mm (100 mm/s), and -2.36 mm (150 mm/s) on average throughout the tendon excursion range. Evaluating relative displacement between the tendon and subsynovial connective tissue during finger flexion-extension movements also offered insight into the gliding mechanism of the subsynovial connective tissue. During flexion, we observed a curvilinear increase in relative displacement, with greater differential motion at the end range of displacement, likely due to the sequential stretch of the fibrils between successive layers of the subsynovial connective tissue. In extension, there was a linear return in relative displacement, suggesting a different unloading mechanism characterized by uniform relaxation of fibrils. We demonstrated the validity of color Doppler displacement for use in the evaluation of relative motion. Color Doppler sonography is useful in our understanding of the behavior of the subsynovial connective tissue during tendon excursion, which may elucidate the role of finger motion in the etiology of shear injury. © 2015 by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Secular trends of pregnancies in women with inflammatory connective tissue disease.

PubMed

Wallenius, Marianne; Salvesen, Kjell Å; Daltveit, Anne K; Skomsvoll, Johan F

2015-11-01

This study examined secular trends in reproductive outcome in women with inflammatory connective tissue disease compared with reference deliveries from the general population. Historical cohort study based on data registered in the Medical Birth Register of Norway from 1967 to 2009. The study included singleton births in women recorded with connective tissue disease (n = 851) and reference deliveries from the general population (n = 2 437 110). Births were stratified in four periods, 1967-1979, 1980-1989, 1990-1999 and 2000-2009. Associations between connective tissue disease and maternal and perinatal outcomes by decade were assessed in logistic regression analyses and adjusted for maternal age at delivery and parity. In the 1970s, around 2.7 deliveries/year were registered for women with connective tissue disease (0.004% of all deliveries). This increased to 42 deliveries/year (0.07% of all deliveries) after 2000. Adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for cesarean section were 5.0 (95% CI 2.1-11.9) in the first and 1.8 (95% CI 1.4-2.3) in the last period. For preterm delivery the aOR decreased from 4.9 (95% CI 2.1-11.4) to 3.1 (95% CI 2.3-4.2) and the aOR for birthweight <2500 g changed from 7.3 (95% CI 3.3-16.3) to 4.1 (95% CI 3.0-5.6). An increasing number of births were observed over time among women with connective tissue disease. Adverse pregnancy outcomes were more common among women with connective tissue disease but risks have decreased over time. © 2015 Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

[Mixed connective tissue disease: prevalence and clinical characteristics in African black, study of 7 cases in Gabon and review of the literature].

PubMed

Missounga, Landry; Ba, Josaphat Iba; Nseng Nseng Ondo, Ingrid Rosalie; Nziengui Madjinou, Maria Ines Carine; Malekou, Doris; Mouendou Mouloungui, Emeline Gracia; Nzengue, Emmanuel Ecke; Boguikouma, Jean Bruno; Kombila, Moussavou

2017-01-01

The literature reports that mixed connective tissue disease seems more frequent in the black population and among Asians. This study aims to determine the prevalence of mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) among connective tissue disorders and all rheumatologic pathologies in a hospital population in Gabon as well as to describe the clinical features of this disease. We conducted a retrospective study by reviewing the medical records of patients treated for mixed connective tissue disease (Kasukawa criteria) and other entities of connective tissue disorders (ACR criteria) in the Division of Rheumatology at the University Hospital in Libreville between January 2010 and December 2015. For each case of MCTD the parameters studied were articular and extra-articular manifestations, anti-U1RNP antibodies levels, patient's evolution. Over a period of 6 years, data were collected by medical records of 7 patients out of 6050 patients and 67 cases of connective tissue disorders, reflecting a prevalence of 0.11% and 10.44% respectively. the 7 patients were women (100%), with an average age of 39.5 years. Articular manifestations included: polyarthritis, myalgias, chubby fingers and Raynaud's phenomenon in 87.5%, 87.5%, 28.6% and 14% respectively. The 7 patients had high anti-U1RNP antibodies levels, ranging between 5 and 35N (N≤ 7 IU). A case of death due to pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) was certified. This is the largest case series of MCTD reported in Black Africa. The disease seems to be rare among the black Africans; the reason could be genetic. The demographic and clinical aspects appear similar to those in Caucasians, Asians and Blacks except for a low frequency of Raynaud?s phenomenon among Blacks.

Maturation State and Matrix Microstructure Regulate Interstitial Cell Migration in Dense Connective Tissues.

PubMed

Qu, Feini; Li, Qing; Wang, Xiao; Cao, Xuan; Zgonis, Miltiadis H; Esterhai, John L; Shenoy, Vivek B; Han, Lin; Mauck, Robert L

2018-02-19

Few regenerative approaches exist for the treatment of injuries to adult dense connective tissues. Compared to fetal tissues, adult connective tissues are hypocellular and show limited healing after injury. We hypothesized that robust repair can occur in fetal tissues with an immature extracellular matrix (ECM) that is conducive to cell migration, and that this process fails in adults due to the biophysical barriers imposed by the mature ECM. Using the knee meniscus as a platform, we evaluated the evolving micromechanics and microstructure of fetal and adult tissues, and interrogated the interstitial migratory capacity of adult meniscal cells through fetal and adult tissue microenvironments with or without partial enzymatic digestion. To integrate our findings, a computational model was implemented to determine how changing biophysical parameters impact cell migration through these dense networks. Our results show that the micromechanics and microstructure of the adult meniscus ECM sterically hinder cell mobility, and that modulation of these ECM attributes via an exogenous matrix-degrading enzyme permits migration through this otherwise impenetrable network. By addressing the inherent limitations to repair imposed by the mature ECM, these studies may define new clinical strategies to promote repair of damaged dense connective tissues in adults.

Invited review: mesenchymal progenitor cells in intramuscular connective tissue development.

PubMed

Miao, Z G; Zhang, L P; Fu, X; Yang, Q Y; Zhu, M J; Dodson, M V; Du, M

2016-01-01

The abundance and cross-linking of intramuscular connective tissue contributes to the background toughness of meat, and is thus undesirable. Connective tissue is mainly synthesized by intramuscular fibroblasts. Myocytes, adipocytes and fibroblasts are derived from a common pool of progenitor cells during the early embryonic development. It appears that multipotent mesenchymal stem cells first diverge into either myogenic or non-myogenic lineages; non-myogenic mesenchymal progenitors then develop into the stromal-vascular fraction of skeletal muscle wherein adipocytes, fibroblasts and derived mesenchymal progenitors reside. Because non-myogenic mesenchymal progenitors mainly undergo adipogenic or fibrogenic differentiation during muscle development, strengthening progenitor proliferation enhances the potential for both intramuscular adipogenesis and fibrogenesis, leading to the elevation of both marbling and connective tissue content in the resulting meat product. Furthermore, given the bipotent developmental potential of progenitor cells, enhancing their conversion to adipogenesis reduces fibrogenesis, which likely results in the overall improvement of marbling (more intramuscular adipocytes) and tenderness (less connective tissue) of meat. Fibrogenesis is mainly regulated by the transforming growth factor (TGF) β signaling pathway and its regulatory cascade. In addition, extracellular matrix, a part of the intramuscular connective tissue, provides a niche environment for regulating myogenic differentiation of satellite cells and muscle growth. Despite rapid progress, many questions remain in the role of extracellular matrix on muscle development, and factors determining the early differentiation of myogenic, adipogenic and fibrogenic cells, which warrant further studies.

Implant-Abutment Contact Surfaces and Microgap Measurements of Different Implant Connections Under 3-Dimensional X-Ray Microtomography.

PubMed

Scarano, Antonio; Valbonetti, Luca; Degidi, Marco; Pecci, Raffaella; Piattelli, Adriano; de Oliveira, P S; Perrotti, Vittoria

2016-10-01

The presence of a microgap between implant and abutment could produce a bacterial reservoir which could interfere with the long-term health of the periimplant tissues. The aim of this article was to evaluate, by x-ray 3-dimensional microtomography, implant-abutment contact surfaces and microgaps at the implant-abutment interface in different types of implant-abutment connections. A total of 40 implants were used in this in vitro study. Ten implants presented a screw-retained internal hexagon abutment (group I), 10 had a Morse Cone taper internal connection (group II), 10 another type of Morse Cone taper internal connection (group III), and 10 had a screwed trilobed connection (group IV). In both types of Morse Cone internal connections, there was no detectable separation at the implant-abutment in the area of the conical connection, and there was an absolute congruity without any microgaps between abutment and implant. No line was visible separating the implant and the abutment. On the contrary, in the screwed abutment implants, numerous gaps and voids were present. The results of this study support the hypothesis that different types of implant-abutment joints are responsible for the observed differences in bacterial penetration.

Acoustic properties of healthy and reconstructed cleft lip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thijssen, Johan M.; van Hees, Nancy J.; Weijers, Gert G.; Huyskens, Rinske W.; Nillesen, Maartje; Katsaros, Christos; de Korte, Chris L.

2006-03-01

The feasibility of echographic imaging of the tissues in healthy lip and in reconstructed cleft lip and estimating the dimensions and the normalized echo level of these tissues is investigated. Echographic images of the upper lip were made with commercial medical ultrasound equipment, using a linear array transducer (7-11 MHz bandwidth) and a non-contact gel coupling. Tissue dimensions were measured by means of software calipers. Echo levels were calibrated and corrected for beam characteristics, gel path and tissue attenuation by using a tissue-mimicking phantom. At central position of philtrum, mean thickness (and standard deviation) of lip loose connective tissue layer, orbicularis oris muscle and dense connective layer was 4.0 (sd 0.1) mm, 2.3 (sd 0.7) mm, 2.2 (sd 0.7) mm, respectively, in healthy lip at rest. Mean (sd) echo level of muscle and dense connective tissue layer with respect to echo level of lip loose connective tissue layer was in relaxed condition: - 19.3 (sd 0.6) dB and - 10.7 (sd 4.0) dB, respectively. Echo level of loose connective tissue layer was +25.6 (sd 4.2) dB relative to phantom echo level obtained in the focus of the transducer. Color mode echo images were calculated, after adaptive filtering of the images, which show the tissues in separate colors and highlight the details of healthy lip and reconstructed cleft lip. Quantitative assessment of thickness and echo level of various lip tissues is feasible after proper calibration of the echographic equipment. Diagnostic potentials of the developed quantitative echographic techniques for non-invasive evaluation of the outcome of cleft lip reconstruction are promising.

[Pulmonary involvement in connective tissue disease].

PubMed

Bartosiewicz, Małgorzata

2016-01-01

The connective tissue diseases are a variable group of autoimmune mediated disorders characterized by multiorgan damage. Pulmonary complications are common, usually occur after the onset of joint symptoms, but can also be initially presenting complaint. The respiratory system may be involved in all its component: airways, vessels, parenchyma, pleura and respiratory muscles. Lung involvement is an increasing cause of morbidity and mortality in the connective tissue diseases. Clinical course is highly variable - can range from mild to rapidly progressive, some processes are reversible, while others are irreversible. Thus, the identification of reversible disease , and separately progressive disease, are important clinical issues. The frequency, clinical presentation, prognosis and responce to therapy are different, depending on the pattern of involvement as well as on specyfic diagnostic method used to identify it. High- resolution computed tompography plays an important role in identifying patients with respiratory involvement. Pulmonary function tests are a sensitive tool detecting interstitial lung disease. In this article, pulmonary lung involvement accompanying most frequently apperaing connective tissue diseases - rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, lupus erythematosus, polymyositis/dermatomyositis, Sjögrens syndrome and mixed connective tissue disaese are reviewed.

Polarization spectrometry diagnostic of cervical pathological states of endometriosis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yermolenko, S. B.; Peresunko, O. P.; Burkovets, D. N.

2018-01-01

The purpose of the study was to determine the histochemical and laser criteria for diagnosis of background, precancerous and endometrial cancer by the state of the cervical canal wall. The given data on the state of connective tissue in the endocervix can distinguish three differential prognostic possibilities: - prediction of the condition of the connective tissue of the endocervix of the normal endometrium without the possibility of differentiating the phases of the ovarian cycle; - prediction of the endocervix endotracheal connective tissue state of the endometrium as a separate process; - prediction for the condition of the connective tissue of the endocervix of the processes of expressed proliferation of the typical (glandular hyperplasia and glandular polyps) or atypical (adenocarcinoma) glandular first endometrial epithelial differentiation without the possibility of these processes among them. The stroke-scrape of the epithelium of the cervical canal (endocervix) allows the condition of the connective tissue to diagnose the processes of pronounced proliferation of the typical (hyperplasia, polyp) and atypical (adenocarcinoma) epithelium of the endometrium without the possibility of differentiating these processes among themselves.

Connective tissue integrity is lost in vitamin B-6-deficient chicks

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Masse, P. G.; Yamauchi, M.; Mahuren, J. D.; Coburn, S. P.; Muniz, O. E.; Howell, D. S.

1995-01-01

The objective of the present investigation was to characterize further the connective tissue disorder produced by pyridoxine (vitamin B-6) deficiency, as previously evidenced by electron microscopy. Following the second post-natal week, fast growing male chicks were deprived of pyridoxine for a 1-mo period. Six weeks post-natally, blood concentrations in the experimental deficiency group had declined to deficiency levels as registered by low concentrations of pyridoxal phosphate (coenzyme form) in erythrocytes, but did not reach levels associated with neurological symptoms. Light microscopic study showed abnormalities in the extracellular matrix of the connective tissues. Collagen cross-links and the aldehyde contents were not significantly lower in cartilage and tendon collagens of vitamin B-6-deficient animals than in age-matched controls; also, their proteoglycan degrading protease and collagenase activities measured in articular cartilages were not greater. Thus, proteolysis was an unlikely alternative mechanism to account for the loss of connective tissue integrity. These results point to the need for further investigation into adhesive properties of collagen associated proteoglycans or other proteins in vitamin B-6-deficient connective tissue.

The application of quantitative cytochemistry to the study of diseases of the connective tissues.

PubMed

Henderson, B

1983-01-01

The connective tissues are a complex organisation of tissues, cells and intercellular materials spread throughout the body and are subject to a large number of diseases. Such complexity makes the study of the metabolism of the connective tissues in health and more particularly in disease states difficult if one uses conventional biochemical methodology. Fortunately the techniques of quantitative cytochemistry, as developed in recent years, have made it possible to study the metabolism of even such complex and refractory connective tissues as bone. Using properly validated assays of enzyme activity in unfixed sections from various tissues a number of the diseases of the connective tissues have been studied. For example the synovia from patients with rheumatoid arthritis and related conditions have been studied using these techniques and marked alterations in the metabolism of the synovial lining cell population of this tissue have been demonstrated. These alterations in metabolism are believed to be related to the destruction of cartilage and bone found in such diseases. Investigations of the metabolism of the chondrocytes of articular cartilage in a strain of mice which spontaneously develops osteoarthritis has revealed a lack of certain key enzymes of carbohydrate metabolism in precisely those areas where degradation of the matrix of articular cartilage begins suggesting a causal relationship between these events. These same techniques have been used to study the cellular kinetics and metabolism of the dermis and epidermis in the disfiguring disease, psoriasis. The metabolism of healing bone fractures, the diagnosis and treatment of the mucopolysaccharidoses and the metabolic effects of currently used anti-inflammatory and anti-rheumatic drugs have also been examined. Perhaps the most exciting aspect of these studies has been the development and use of the technique of the cytochemical bioassay (CBA) to study hormonally mediated diseases of the connective tissues. Such studies have recently shed new light on the molecular lesion in pseudohypoparathyroidism. Though still in their relative infancy the studies described in this review show the potential inherent in the use of quantitative cytochemistry for the study of diseases of the connective tissues.

Central nervous system tissue heterotopia of the nose: case report and review of the literature

PubMed Central

Altissimi, G; Ascani, S; Falcetti, S; Cazzato, C; Bravi, I

2009-01-01

Summary The Authors present a case of heterotopic central nervous system tissue observed in an 81-year-old male in the form of an ethmoidal polyp. A review of the literature indicates that this is a rare condition characterised by a connective tissue lesion with astrocytic and oligodendrocytic glial cells, which may be located outside the nasal pyramid in some cases and inside the nasal cavity in others. The most important diagnostic aspect involves differentiating these from meningoencephalocele, which maintains an anatomical connection with central nervous system tissue. Contrast-enhanced imaging is essential for diagnosis, as in cases of heterotopic central nervous system tissue, it will demonstrate that there are no connections with intra-cranial tissue. Endoscopic excision is the treatment of choice. PMID:20161881

Portable bioreactor for perfusion and electrical stimulation of engineered cardiac tissue.

PubMed

Tandon, Nina; Taubman, Alanna; Cimetta, Elisa; Saccenti, Laetitia; Vunjak-Novakovic, Gordana

2013-01-01

Cardiac tissue engineering aims to create functional tissue constructs that can reestablish the structure and function of injured myocardium. Although bioreactors have facilitated the engineering of cardiac patches of clinically relevant size in vitro, a major drawback remains the transportation of the engineered tissues from a production facility to a medical operation facility while maintaining tissue viability and preventing contamination. Furthermore, after implantation, most of the cells are endangered by hypoxic conditions that exist before vascular flow is established. We developed a portable device that provides the perfusion and electrical stimulation necessary to engineer cardiac tissue in vitro, and to transport it to the site where it will be implantated. The micropump-powered perfusion apparatus may additionally function as an extracorporeal active pumping system providing nutrients and oxygen supply to the graft post-implantation. Such a system, through perfusion of oxygenated media and bioactive molecules (e.g. growth factors), could transiently support the tissue construct until it connects to the host vasculature and heart muscle, after which it could be taken away or let biodegrade.

Fluid-Structure Analysis of Opening Phenomena in a Collapsible Airway

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ghadiali, Samir N.; Banks, Julie; Swarts, J. Douglas

2003-11-01

Several physiological functions require the opening of collapsed respiratory airways. For example, the Eustachian tube (ET), which connects the nasopharynx with the middle ear (ME), must be periodically opened to maintain ambient ME pressures. These openings normally occur during swallowing when muscle contraction deforms the surrounding soft tissue. The inability to open the ET results in the most common and costly ear disease in children, Otitis Media. Although tissue-based treatments have been purposed, the influence of the various tissue mechanical properties on flow phenomena has not been investigated. A computational model of ET opening was developed using in-vivo structural data to investigate these fluid-structure interactions. This model accounts for both tissue deformation and the resulting airflow in a non-circular conduit. Results indicate that ET opening is more sensitive to the applied muscle forces than elastic tissue properties. These models have therefore identified how different tissue elements alter ET opening phenomena, which elements should be targeted for treatment and the optimal mechanical properties of these tissue constructs. Research supported by NIH grant DC005345.

[Klinefelter's syndrome associated with mixed connective tissue disease (Sharp's syndrome) and thrombophilia with postthrombotic syndrome].

PubMed

Kasten, Robert; Pfirrmann, Gudrun; Voigtländer, Volker

2005-08-01

A 43-year-old male with eunuchoid body proportions and a history of deep venous thromboses in the right leg presented with recurrent ulcers in the right perimalleolar region for 6 years. Karyotyping revealed a 47 XXY Klinefelter's syndrome, while serologic testing showed protein S deficiency, hyperhomocysteinemia and positive lupus anticoagulant. He also had mixed connective tissue disease (Sharp's syndrome) with acrosclerosis, proximal finger edema, Raynaud's phenomenon, and high titers of ANA and U1-RNP-antibodies, as well as osteoporosis. There is evidence that patients with Klinefelter's syndrome are prone to develop connective tissue diseases and thrombophilia as a result of low androgen levels. Substitution of testosterone in Klinefelter's syndrome can have a favorable therapeutic effect on the associated connective tissue disease, thrombophilia and osteoporosis.

Connective tissue graft as a biological barrier for guided tissue regeneration in intrabony defects: a histological study in dogs.

PubMed

Ribeiro, Fernando Salimon; Pontes, Ana Emília Farias; Zuza, Elizangela Partata; da Silva, Vanessa Camila; Lia, Raphael Carlos Comelli; Marcantonio Junior, Elcio

2015-06-01

The use of the autogenous periosteal graft as biological barrier has been proposed for periodontal regeneration. The aim of this study was to evaluate the histometric findings of the subepithelial connective tissue graft as barrier in intrabony defects compared to a bioabsorbable membrane. Three-walled intrabony defects were created surgically in the mesial aspect of the right and left maxillary canines in five healthy mongrel dogs. The defects were chronified, and two types of barriers were randomly carried out for guided tissue regeneration in a split-mouth design: the test group with a subepithelial connective tissue graft and the control group with a bioabsorbable membrane. The specimens were processed for histometric analyses of the epithelium (E), connective tissue (CT), newly formed cementum (NC), new bone (NB), and total newly formed tissues (NFT). The test side showed smaller mean of NC (3.6 ± 1.2), NB (2.1 ± 0.7), and NFT (7.7 ± 0.8) than the control group (NC 7.3 ± 0.5; NB 5.3 ± 1.3; NFT 10.1 ± 2.2; P < 0.05). No statistically significant differences were verified for E (test 3.1 ± 2.0; control 2.8 ± 2.1; P > 0.05) and CT (test 2.5 ± 1.1; control 2.0 ± 0.5; P > 0.05) between groups. The bioabsorbable membrane was more effective in maintaining the space for periodontal regeneration than periosteal connective graft when used as barrier. The bioabsorbable membrane showed more favorable regenerative results in intrabony defects in dogs than the subepithelial connective tissue graft as biological barrier.

[Morphological characteristics of kidneys connective tissue of mature fetuses and newborns from mothers, whose pregnancy was complicated by preeclampsia of varying degrees of severity].

PubMed

Sorokina, Iryna V; Myroshnychenko, Mykhailo S; Kapustnyk, Nataliia V; Khramova, Tetyana O; Dehtiarova, Oksana V; Danylchenko, Svitlana I

2018-01-01

Introduction: The kidneys connective tissue condition in the antenatal period affects the formation of tissues and it changes with the development of various general pathological processes in this organ. The aim of the study was to identify the morphological features of kidneys connective tissue of fetuses and newborns from mothers whose pregnancy was complicated by preeclampsia of varying degrees of severity. Materials and methods: The material of the study was the tissue of kidneys of mature fetuses and newborns from mothers with physiological pregnancy (28 cases), as well as from mothers whose pregnancy was complicated by preeclampsia of varying degrees of severity (78 cases). Immunohistochemical study was performed by an indirect Coons method according to M. Brosman's technique using monoclonal antibodies to collagen type I, III and IV. Results: The kidneys connective tissue of fetuses and newborns developing under the maternal preeclampsia conditions is characterized by the qualitative and quantitative changes that indicate the development of sclerotic processes in this organ, the severity of which increase with the age and with the increase of the maternal preeclampsia severity. Qualitative changes are characterized by an increase of the fibrous component, thickening of the bundles of connective tissue fibers, and a decrease in the distance between them. Quantitative changes are characterized by a pronounced predominance of collagen fibers over elastic fibers, almost total absence in some field of view elastic fibers and the violation of the content of collagen type I, III and IV. Conclusion: Maternal preeclampsia underlies the development of qualitative and quantitative changes in kidneys connective tissue of fetuses and newborns, which as a result will lead to disruption of the functions of these organs in such children.

Keloids and Hypertrophic Scars

MedlinePlus

... to the skin both skin cells and connective tissue cells (fibroblasts) begin multiplying to repair the damage. A scar is made up of 'connective tissue', gristle-like fibers deposited in the skin by ...

Wavelet analysis in two-dimensional tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burkovets, Dimitry N.

2002-02-01

The diagnostic possibilities of wavelet-analysis of coherent images of connective tissue in its pathological changes diagnostics. The effectiveness of polarization selection in obtaining wavelet-coefficients' images is also shown. The wavelet structures, characterizing the process of skin psoriasis, bone-tissue osteoporosis have been analyzed. The histological sections of physiological normal and pathologically changed samples of connective tissue of human skin and spongy bone tissue have been analyzed.

The Lymphatic Vasculature: Its Role in Adipose Metabolism and Obesity.

PubMed

Escobedo, Noelia; Oliver, Guillermo

2017-10-03

Obesity is a key risk factor for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, and although we understand the mechanisms regulating weight and energy balance, the causes of some forms of obesity remain enigmatic. Despite the well-established connections between lymphatics and lipids, and the fact that intestinal lacteals play key roles in dietary fat absorption, the function of the lymphatic vasculature in adipose metabolism has only recently been recognized. It is well established that angiogenesis is tightly associated with the outgrowth of adipose tissue, as expanding adipose tissue requires increased nutrient supply from blood vessels. Results supporting a crosstalk between lymphatic vessels and adipose tissue, and linking lymphatic function with metabolic diseases, obesity, and adipose tissue, also started to accumulate in the last years. Here we review our current knowledge of the mechanisms by which defective lymphatics contribute to obesity and fat accumulation in mouse models, as well as our understanding of the lymphatic-adipose tissue relationship. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Spatiotemporally Controlled Microchannels of Periodontal Mimic Scaffolds

PubMed Central

Park, C.H.; Kim, K.H.; Rios, H.F.; Lee, Y.M.; Giannobile, W.V.; Seol, Y.J.

2014-01-01

Physiologic bioengineering of the oral, dental, and craniofacial complex requires optimized geometric organizations of fibrous connective tissues. A computer-designed, fiber-guiding scaffold has been developed to promote tooth-supporting periodontal tissue regeneration and functional restoration despite limited printing resolution for the manufacture of submicron-scaled features. Here, we demonstrate the use of directional freeze-casting techniques to control pore directional angulations and create mimicked topographies to alveolar crest, horizontal, oblique, and apical fibers of natural periodontal ligaments. For the differing anatomic positions, the gelatin displayed varying patterns of ice growth, determined via internal pore architectures. Regardless of the freezing coordinates, the longitudinal pore arrangements resulted in submicron-scaled diameters (~50 µm), along with corresponding high biomaterial porosity (~90%). Furthermore, the horizontal + coronal ((x→−y→) freezing orientation facilitated the creation of similar structures to major fibers in the periodontal ligament interface. This periodontal tissue-mimicking microenvironment is a potential tissue platform for the generation of naturally oriented ligamentous tissues consistent with periodontal ligament neogenesis. PMID:25216511

Clinical evaluation of subepithelial connective tissue graft and guided tissue regeneration for treatment of Miller’s class 1 gingival recession (comparative, split mouth, six months study)

PubMed Central

Bhavsar, Neeta-V.; Dulani, Kirti; Trivedi, Rahul

2014-01-01

Objectives: The present study aims to clinically compare and evaluate subepithelial connective tissue graft and the GTR based root coverage in treatment of Miller’s Class I gingival recession. Study Design: 30 patients with at least one pair of Miller’s Class I gingival recession were treated either with Subepithelial connective tissue graft (Group A) or Guided tissue regeneration (Group B). Clinical parameters monitored included recession RD, width of keratinized gingiva (KG), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), attached gingiva (AG), residual probing depth (RPD) and % of Root coverage(%RC). Measurements were taken at baseline, three months and six months. A standard surgical procedure was used for both Group A and Group B. Data were recorded and statistical analysis was done for both intergroup and intragroup. Results: At end of six months % RC obtained were 84.47% (Group A) and 81.67% (Group B). Both treatments resulted in statistically significant improvement in clinical parameters. When compared, no statistically significant difference was found between both groups except in RPD, where it was significantly greater in Group A. Conclusions: GTR technique has advantages over subepithelial connective tissue graft for shallow Miller’s Class I defects and this procedure can be used to avoid patient discomfort and reduce treatment time. Key words:Collagen membrane, comparative split mouth study, gingival recession, subepithelial connective tissue graft, guided tissue regeneration (GTR). PMID:25136420

Connective tissue responses to some heavy metals. II. Lead: histology and ultrastructure.

PubMed Central

Ellender, G.; Ham, K. N.

1987-01-01

Lead loaded ion exchange resin beads implanted into the loose connective tissue of the rat pinna induced local lesions which differed widely from those of the control (sodium loaded) beads (Ellender & Ham 1987). These lesions were characterized by changes in the granulation tissue and the approximating connective tissue. Granulation tissue contained mononuclear phagocytes in various guises, and some cells with intranuclear inclusion bodies. The matrix of the granulation tissue contained collagen fibrils having a wide range of diameters suggestive of altered collagen biosynthesis. Foci of collagen mineralization occurred in zones of combined trauma and lead impregnation. Once mineralized they became enveloped by giant cells and epithelioid cells. Lead in damaged tissues is thought to modify the protective mechanism of calcification inhibition and the biosynthesis of the matrix. Images Fig. 6 Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 Fig. 7 Fig. 8 Fig. 9 Fig. 10 Fig. 11 Fig. 12 Fig. 13 PMID:3040063

Uterine Prolapse

MedlinePlus

... during bowel movements Family history of weakness in connective tissue Being Hispanic or white Complications Uterine prolapse is ... You might experience: Anterior prolapse (cystocele). Weakness of connective tissue separating the bladder and vagina may cause the ...

Micro-Organ Device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sun, Wei (Inventor); Chang, Robert C. (Inventor); Starly, Binil (Inventor); Holtorf, Heidi L. (Inventor); Leslie, Julia (Inventor); Culbertson, Christopher (Inventor); Gonda, Steve R. (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A method for fabricating a micro-organ device comprises providing a microscale support having one or more microfluidic channels and one or more micro-chambers for housing a micro-organ and printing a micro-organ on the microscale support using a cell suspension in a syringe controlled by a computer-aided tissue engineering system, wherein the cell suspension comprises cells suspended in a solution containing a material that functions as a three-dimensional scaffold. The printing is performed with the computer-aided tissue engineering system according to a particular pattern. The micro-organ device comprises at least one micro-chamber each housing a micro-organ; and at least one microfluidic channel connected to the micro-chamber, wherein the micro-organ comprises cells arranged in a configuration that includes microscale spacing between portions of the cells to facilitate diffusion exchange between the cells and a medium supplied from the at least one microfluidic channel.

Micro-organ device

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

von Gustedt-Gonda, legal representative, Iris (Inventor); Holtorf, Heidi L. (Inventor); Gonda, Steve R. (Inventor); Leslie, Julia (Inventor); Chang, Robert C. (Inventor); Sun, Wei (Inventor); Starly, Binil (Inventor); Culbertson, Christopher (Inventor)

2013-01-01

A method for fabricating a micro-organ device comprises providing a microscale support having one or more microfluidic channels and one or more micro-chambers for housing a micro-organ and printing a micro-organ on the microscale support using a cell suspension in a syringe controlled by a computer-aided tissue engineering system, wherein the cell suspension comprises cells suspended in a solution containing a material that functions as a three-dimensional scaffold. The printing is performed with the computer-aided tissue engineering system according to a particular pattern. The micro-organ device comprises at least one micro-chamber each housing a micro-organ; and at least one microfluidic channel connected to the micro-chamber, wherein the micro-organ comprises cells arranged in a configuration that includes microscale spacing between portions of the cells to facilitate diffusion exchange between the cells and a medium supplied from the at least one microfluidic channel.

Isolation, separation, and characterization of epithelial and connective cells from rat palate

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

Terranova, Victor Paul

1979-01-01

Epithelial and connective tissue cells were isolated from rat palate by sequential collagenase, hyaluronidase and trypsin digestion of the extracellular matrix. Differences between the two populations were noted with respect to total cell protein, total cell water, proline uptake and incorporation, percent collagen synthesized, effects of parathyroid hormone, metabolism of D-valine and cell density. Basal epithelial cells were subsequently separated from the heterogeneous epithelial cell population on shallow linear density gradients by velocity centrifugation. The type of collagen synthesized by the basal epithelial cells was compared to the type of collagen synthesized by the connective tissue cells by means ofmore » labeled amino acid incorporation ratios. Cells isolated from the epithelial and connective tissue were compared. From these studies it can be concluded that epithelial and connective tissue cells can be isolated from rat palate as viable and distinct populations with respect to the biochemical parameters examined. Furthermore, subpopulations can be separated and biochemically characterized.« less

Rod-Shaped Neural Units for Aligned 3D Neural Network Connection.

PubMed

Kato-Negishi, Midori; Onoe, Hiroaki; Ito, Akane; Takeuchi, Shoji

2017-08-01

This paper proposes neural tissue units with aligned nerve fibers (called rod-shaped neural units) that connect neural networks with aligned neurons. To make the proposed units, 3D fiber-shaped neural tissues covered with a calcium alginate hydrogel layer are prepared with a microfluidic system and are cut in an accurate and reproducible manner. These units have aligned nerve fibers inside the hydrogel layer and connectable points on both ends. By connecting the units with a poly(dimethylsiloxane) guide, 3D neural tissues can be constructed and maintained for more than two weeks of culture. In addition, neural networks can be formed between the different neural units via synaptic connections. Experimental results indicate that the proposed rod-shaped neural units are effective tools for the construction of spatially complex connections with aligned nerve fibers in vitro. © 2017 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Heritable Disorders of Connective Tissue

MedlinePlus

... skin. Epidermolysis bullosa affects the skin, causing blisters. Marfan syndrome can affect the heart, blood vessels, lungs, eyes, ... Disorders of Connective Tissue, Questions and Answers about Marfan Syndrome, Questions and Answers about Marfan Syndrome, Easy-to- ...

Connective tissue regeneration in skeletal muscle after eccentric contraction-induced injury.

PubMed

Mackey, Abigail L; Kjaer, Michael

2017-03-01

Human skeletal muscle has the potential to regenerate completely after injury induced under controlled experimental conditions. The events inside the myofibers as they undergo necrosis, followed closely by satellite cell-mediated myogenesis, have been mapped in detail. Much less is known about the adaptation throughout this process of both the connective tissue structures surrounding the myofibers and the fibroblasts, the cells responsible for synthesizing this connective tissue. However, the few studies investigating muscle connective tissue remodeling demonstrate a strong response that appears to be sustained for a long time after the major myofiber responses have subsided. While the use of electrical stimulation to induce eccentric contractions vs. voluntary eccentric contractions appears to lead to a greater extent of myofiber necrosis and regenerative response, this difference is not apparent when the muscle connective tissue responses are compared, although further work is required to confirm this. Pharmacological agents (growth hormone and angiotensin II type I receptor blockers) are considered in the context of accelerating the muscle connective tissue adaptation to loading. Cautioning against this, however, is the association between muscle matrix protein remodeling and protection against reinjury, which suggests that a (so far undefined) period of vulnerability to reinjury may exist during the remodeling phases. The role of individual muscle matrix components and their spatial interaction during adaptation to eccentric contractions is an unexplored field in human skeletal muscle and may provide insight into the optimal timing of rest vs. return to activity after muscle injury. Copyright © 2017 the American Physiological Society.

Soft tissue wound healing around teeth and dental implants.

PubMed

Sculean, Anton; Gruber, Reinhard; Bosshardt, Dieter D

2014-04-01

To provide an overview on the biology and soft tissue wound healing around teeth and dental implants. This narrative review focuses on cell biology and histology of soft tissue wounds around natural teeth and dental implants. The available data indicate that: (a) Oral wounds follow a similar pattern. (b) The tissue specificities of the gingival, alveolar and palatal mucosa appear to be innately and not necessarily functionally determined. (c) The granulation tissue originating from the periodontal ligament or from connective tissue originally covered by keratinized epithelium has the potential to induce keratinization. However, it also appears that deep palatal connective tissue may not have the same potential to induce keratinization as the palatal connective tissue originating from an immediately subepithelial area. (d) Epithelial healing following non-surgical and surgical periodontal therapy appears to be completed after a period of 7–14 days. Structural integrity of a maturing wound between a denuded root surface and a soft tissue flap is achieved at approximately 14-days post-surgery. (e) The formation of the biological width and maturation of the barrier function around transmucosal implants requires 6–8 weeks of healing. (f) The established peri-implant soft connective tissue resembles a scar tissue in composition, fibre orientation, and vasculature. (g) The peri-implant junctional epithelium may reach a greater final length under certain conditions such as implants placed into fresh extraction sockets versus conventional implant procedures in healed sites. © 2014 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Supportive development of functional tissues for biomedical research using the MINUSHEET® perfusion system

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Functional tissues generated under in vitro conditions are urgently needed in biomedical research. However, the engineering of tissues is rather difficult, since their development is influenced by numerous parameters. In consequence, a versatile culture system was developed to respond the unmet needs. Optimal adhesion for cells in this system is reached by the selection of individual biomaterials. To protect cells during handling and culture, the biomaterial is mounted onto a MINUSHEET® tissue carrier. While adherence of cells takes place in the static environment of a 24 well culture plate, generation of tissues is accomplished in one of several available perfusion culture containers. In the basic version a continuous flow of always fresh culture medium is provided to the developing tissue. In a gradient perfusion culture container epithelia are exposed to different fluids at the luminal and basal sides. Another special container with a transparent lid and base enables microscopic visualization of ongoing tissue development. A further container exhibits a flexible silicone lid to apply force onto the developing tissue thereby mimicking mechanical load that is required for developing connective and muscular tissue. Finally, stem/progenitor cells are kept at the interface of an artificial polyester interstitium within a perfusion culture container offering for example an optimal environment for the spatial development of renal tubules. The system presented here was evaluated by various research groups. As a result a variety of publications including most interesting applications were published. In the present paper these data were reviewed and analyzed. All of the results point out that the cell biological profile of engineered tissues can be strongly improved, when the introduced perfusion culture technique is applied in combination with specific biomaterials supporting primary adhesion of cells. PMID:23369669

[The effect of neoplastic disease and systemic disease of connective tissue on the occurrence of dehiscence laparotomy].

PubMed

Paunović, Milorad

2013-01-01

Dehiscence after laparotomy is one of the major complications of laparotomy. This is a partial or complete wound with disruption and evisceratio abdominal organs and require urgent reintervention. The aim of this study was to determine the impact of neoplastic disease and systemic disease of connective tissue on the occurrence of dehiscence laparotomy. A prospective study were included 612 patients operated at the Clinic for General Surgery in Nis in the period from January 2009 to December 2010. The effect of neoplastic disease and the presence of systemic disease of connective tissue on the occurrence of dehiscence laparotomy. Results are displayed numerically and in percentages. Of the total 24 patients with dehiscence laparotomy, 15 patients were male or 62.5% and 9 female patients, or 37.5%. There was a statistically significant association between dehiscence laparotomy and neoplastic diseases (c2 = 42,196; p < 0.01). There was no statistically significant association between dehiscence laparo-tomy and systemic disease of connective tissue (c2 = 0,028; p > 0.05). In patients with neoplastic diseases dehis-cence laparotomy is common, and in patients suffering from systemic disease of connective tissue dehiscence laparotomy occurs less frequently.

Aberrant immune response with consequent vascular and connective tissue remodeling - causal to scleroderma and associated syndromes such as Raynaud phenomenon and other fibrosing syndromes?

PubMed

Durmus, Nedim; Park, Sung-Hyun; Reibman, Joan; Grunig, Gabriele

2016-11-01

Scleroderma and other autoimmune-induced connective tissue diseases are characterized by dysfunctions in the immune system, connective tissue and the vasculature. We are focusing on systemic sclerosis (SSc)-associated pulmonary hypertension, which remains a leading cause of death with only a 50-60% of 2-year survival rate. Much research and translational efforts have been directed at understanding the immune response that causes SSc and the networked interactions with the connective tissue and the vasculature. One of the unexpected findings was that in some cases the pathogenic immune response in SSc resembles the immune response to helminth parasites. During coevolution, means of communication were developed which protect the host from over-colonization with parasites and which protect the parasite from excessive host responses. One explanation for the geographically clustered occurrence of SSc is that environmental exposures combined with genetic predisposition turn on triggers of molecular and cellular modules that were once initiated by parasites. Future research is needed to further understand the parasite-derived signals that dampen the host response. Therapeutic helminth infection or treatment with parasite-derived response modifiers could be promising new management tools for autoimmune connective tissue diseases.

Deep nuclear invaginations are linked to cytoskeletal filaments - integrated bioimaging of epithelial cells in 3D culture.

PubMed

Jorgens, Danielle M; Inman, Jamie L; Wojcik, Michal; Robertson, Claire; Palsdottir, Hildur; Tsai, Wen-Ting; Huang, Haina; Bruni-Cardoso, Alexandre; López, Claudia S; Bissell, Mina J; Xu, Ke; Auer, Manfred

2017-01-01

The importance of context in regulation of gene expression is now an accepted principle; yet the mechanism by which the microenvironment communicates with the nucleus and chromatin in healthy tissues is poorly understood. A functional role for nuclear and cytoskeletal architecture is suggested by the phenotypic differences observed between epithelial and mesenchymal cells. Capitalizing on recent advances in cryogenic techniques, volume electron microscopy and super-resolution light microscopy, we studied human mammary epithelial cells in three-dimensional (3D) cultures forming growth-arrested acini. Intriguingly, we found deep nuclear invaginations and tunnels traversing the nucleus, encasing cytoskeletal actin and/or intermediate filaments, which connect to the outer nuclear envelope. The cytoskeleton is also connected both to other cells through desmosome adhesion complexes and to the extracellular matrix through hemidesmosomes. This finding supports a physical and/or mechanical link from the desmosomes and hemidesmosomes to the nucleus, which had previously been hypothesized but now is visualized for the first time. These unique structures, including the nuclear invaginations and the cytoskeletal connectivity to the cell nucleus, are consistent with a dynamic reciprocity between the nucleus and the outside of epithelial cells and tissues. © 2017. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

A comparison of different bioinks for 3D bioprinting of fibrocartilage and hyaline cartilage.

PubMed

Daly, Andrew C; Critchley, Susan E; Rencsok, Emily M; Kelly, Daniel J

2016-10-07

Cartilage is a dense connective tissue with limited self-repair capabilities. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) laden hydrogels are commonly used for fibrocartilage and articular cartilage tissue engineering, however they typically lack the mechanical integrity for implantation into high load bearing environments. This has led to increased interested in 3D bioprinting of cell laden hydrogel bioinks reinforced with stiffer polymer fibres. The objective of this study was to compare a range of commonly used hydrogel bioinks (agarose, alginate, GelMA and BioINK™) for their printing properties and capacity to support the development of either hyaline cartilage or fibrocartilage in vitro. Each hydrogel was seeded with MSCs, cultured for 28 days in the presence of TGF-β3 and then analysed for markers indicative of differentiation towards either a fibrocartilaginous or hyaline cartilage-like phenotype. Alginate and agarose hydrogels best supported the development of hyaline-like cartilage, as evident by the development of a tissue staining predominantly for type II collagen. In contrast, GelMA and BioINK ™ (a PEGMA based hydrogel) supported the development of a more fibrocartilage-like tissue, as evident by the development of a tissue containing both type I and type II collagen. GelMA demonstrated superior printability, generating structures with greater fidelity, followed by the alginate and agarose bioinks. High levels of MSC viability were observed in all bioinks post-printing (∼80%). Finally we demonstrate that it is possible to engineer mechanically reinforced hydrogels with high cell viability by co-depositing a hydrogel bioink with polycaprolactone filaments, generating composites with bulk compressive moduli comparable to articular cartilage. This study demonstrates the importance of the choice of bioink when bioprinting different cartilaginous tissues for musculoskeletal applications.

Neural crest does not contribute to the neck and shoulder in the axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum).

PubMed

Epperlein, Hans-Henning; Khattak, Shahryar; Knapp, Dunja; Tanaka, Elly M; Malashichev, Yegor B

2012-01-01

A major step during the evolution of tetrapods was their transition from water to land. This process involved the reduction or complete loss of the dermal bones that made up connections to the skull and a concomitant enlargement of the endochondral shoulder girdle. In the mouse the latter is derived from three separate embryonic sources: lateral plate mesoderm, somites, and neural crest. The neural crest was suggested to sustain the muscle attachments. How this complex composition of the endochondral shoulder girdle arose during evolution and whether it is shared by all tetrapods is unknown. Salamanders that lack dermal bone within their shoulder girdle were of special interest for a possible contribution of the neural crest to the endochondral elements and muscle attachment sites, and we therefore studied them in this context. We grafted neural crest from GFP+ fluorescent transgenic axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) donor embryos into white (d/d) axolotl hosts and followed the presence of neural crest cells within the cartilage of the shoulder girdle and the connective tissue of muscle attachment sites of the neck-shoulder region. Strikingly, neural crest cells did not contribute to any part of the endochondral shoulder girdle or to the connective tissue at muscle attachment sites in axolotl. Our results in axolotl suggest that neural crest does not serve a general function in vertebrate shoulder muscle attachment sites as predicted by the "muscle scaffold theory," and that it is not necessary to maintain connectivity of the endochondral shoulder girdle to the skull. Our data support the possibility that the contribution of the neural crest to the endochondral shoulder girdle, which is observed in the mouse, arose de novo in mammals as a developmental basis for their skeletal synapomorphies. This further supports the hypothesis of an increased neural crest diversification during vertebrate evolution.

Neural Crest Does Not Contribute to the Neck and Shoulder in the Axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum)

PubMed Central

Epperlein, Hans-Henning; Khattak, Shahryar; Knapp, Dunja; Tanaka, Elly M.; Malashichev, Yegor B.

2012-01-01

Background A major step during the evolution of tetrapods was their transition from water to land. This process involved the reduction or complete loss of the dermal bones that made up connections to the skull and a concomitant enlargement of the endochondral shoulder girdle. In the mouse the latter is derived from three separate embryonic sources: lateral plate mesoderm, somites, and neural crest. The neural crest was suggested to sustain the muscle attachments. How this complex composition of the endochondral shoulder girdle arose during evolution and whether it is shared by all tetrapods is unknown. Salamanders that lack dermal bone within their shoulder girdle were of special interest for a possible contribution of the neural crest to the endochondral elements and muscle attachment sites, and we therefore studied them in this context. Results We grafted neural crest from GFP+ fluorescent transgenic axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) donor embryos into white (d/d) axolotl hosts and followed the presence of neural crest cells within the cartilage of the shoulder girdle and the connective tissue of muscle attachment sites of the neck-shoulder region. Strikingly, neural crest cells did not contribute to any part of the endochondral shoulder girdle or to the connective tissue at muscle attachment sites in axolotl. Conclusions Our results in axolotl suggest that neural crest does not serve a general function in vertebrate shoulder muscle attachment sites as predicted by the “muscle scaffold theory,” and that it is not necessary to maintain connectivity of the endochondral shoulder girdle to the skull. Our data support the possibility that the contribution of the neural crest to the endochondral shoulder girdle, which is observed in the mouse, arose de novo in mammals as a developmental basis for their skeletal synapomorphies. This further supports the hypothesis of an increased neural crest diversification during vertebrate evolution. PMID:23300623

The versatile subepithelial connective tissue graft: a literature update.

PubMed

Karthikeyan, B V; Khanna, Divya; Chowdhary, Kamedh Yashawant; Prabhuji, M Lv

2016-01-01

Harmony between hard and soft tissue morphologies is essential for form, function, and a good esthetic outlook. Replacement grafts for correction of soft tissue defects around the teeth have become important to periodontal plastic and implant surgical procedures. Among a multitude of surgical techniques and graft materials reported in literature, the subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG) has gained wide popularity and acceptance. The purpose of this article is to acquaint clinicians with the current understanding of the versatile SCTG. Key factors associated with graft harvesting as well as applications, limitations, and complications of SCTGs are discussed. This connective tissue has shown excellent short- and long-term stability, is easily available, and is economical to use. The SCTG should be considered as an alternative in all periodontal reconstruction surgeries.

Cell density signal protein suitable for treatment of connective tissue injuries and defects

DOEpatents

Schwarz, Richard I.

2002-08-13

Identification, isolation and partial sequencing of a cell density protein produced by fibroblastic cells. The cell density signal protein comprising a 14 amino acid peptide or a fragment, variant, mutant or analog thereof, the deduced cDNA sequence from the 14 amino acid peptide, a recombinant protein, protein and peptide-specific antibodies, and the use of the peptide and peptide-specific antibodies as therapeutic agents for regulation of cell differentiation and proliferation. A method for treatment and repair of connective tissue and tendon injuries, collagen deficiency, and connective tissue defects.

[Connective tissue dysplasia in patients with celiac desease as a problem of violation of adaptation reserve islands of the body].

PubMed

Tkachenko, E; Oreshko, L S; Soloveva, E A; Shabanova, A A; Zhuravleva, M S

2015-01-01

Clinically significant dysplasia of connective tissue in patients with celiac disease is often responsible for various visceral disorders. Different disturbances of motor and evacuation functions are often determined in this patients (gastroesophageal reflux, duodenogastral reflux, spastic and hyperkinetic dyskinesia). The clinical course of the celiac disease, associated with connective tissue dysplasia, is characterized by asthenovegetative syndrome, reduced tolerance to physical activity, general weakness, fatigue and emotional instability. These data should be considered in choosing a treatment.

Non-marfan idiopathic medionecrosis (cystic medial necrosis) presenting with multiple visceral artery aneurysms and diffuse connective tissue fragility: Two brothers

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

Kubota, Jun; Tsunemura, Mami; Amano, Shigeko

1997-05-15

Two brothers with multiple visceral artery aneurysms or dilatations and diffuse connective tissue fragility who did not have clinical features of Marfan syndrome are reported. One presented with retroperitoneal hemorrhage during angiography, and idiopathic medionecrosis was proved by resection of the aneurysms. These cases belong to the heterogeneous group of Marfan syndrome. The angiographical features (multiple dilation of visceral arteries) suggests fragility of connective tissue and is predictive of hazards during and after a catheterization and operation.

Connecting the plant vasculature to friend or foe.

PubMed

Melnyk, Charles W

2017-03-01

Contents 1611 I. 1611 II. 1612 III. 1612 IV. 1614 V. 1614 VI. 1614 VII. 1615 VIII. 1616 1616 References 1616 SUMMARY: The plant vasculature transports water, sugars, hormones, RNAs and proteins. Such critical functions need to be protected from attack by pests and pathogens or from damage by wounding. Plants have developed mechanisms to repair vasculature when such protections fail and to even initiate new vascular connections to tissues supporting symbionts. The developmental phenomena underlying vascular repair and rewiring are therefore critical for horticultural grafting, for plant infection and for mutualist associations with rhizosphere microbes. Despite the biological and economic interest, we are only beginning to understand how plants connect and reconnect their vasculature to a wide variety of organisms. Here, I discuss recent work and future prospects for this emerging field. © 2016 The Author. New Phytologist © 2016 New Phytologist Trust.

Irradiation by pulsed Nd:YAG laser induces the production of extracellular matrix molecules by cells of the connective tissues: a tool for tissue repair

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Monici, Monica; Basile, Venere; Cialdai, Francesca; Romano, Giovanni; Fusi, Franco; Conti, Antonio

2008-04-01

Many studies demonstrated that mechanical stress is a key factor for tissue homeostasis, while unloading induce loss of mass and impairment of function. Because of their physiological function, muscle, connective tissue, bone and cartilage dynamically interact with mechanical and gravitational stress, modifying their properties through the continuous modification of their composition. Indeed, it is known that mechanical stress increases the production of extracellular matrix (ECM) components by cells, but the mechanotransduction mechanisms and the optimal loading conditions required for an optimal tissue homeostasis are still unknown. Considering the importance of cell activation and ECM production in tissue regeneration, a proper use of mechanical stimulation could be a powerful tool in tissue repair and tissue engineering. Studies exploring advanced modalities for supplying mechanical stimuli are needed to increase our knowledge on mechanobiology and to develop effective clinical applications. Here we describe the effect of photomechanical stress, supplied by a pulsed Nd:YAG laser on ECM production by cells of connective tissues. Cell morphology, production of ECM molecules (collagens, fibronectin, mucopolysaccharides), cell adhesion and cell energy metabolism have been studied by using immunofluorescence and autofluorescence microscopy. The results show that photomechanical stress induces cytoskeleton remodelling, redistribution of membrane integrins, increase in production of ECM molecules. These results could be of consequence for developing clinical protocols for the treatment of connective tissue dideases by pulsed Nd:YAG laser.

The connective tissue phenotype of glaucomatous cupping in the monkey eye - Clinical and research implications.

PubMed

Yang, Hongli; Reynaud, Juan; Lockwood, Howard; Williams, Galen; Hardin, Christy; Reyes, Luke; Stowell, Cheri; Gardiner, Stuart K; Burgoyne, Claude F

2017-07-01

In a series of previous publications we have proposed a framework for conceptualizing the optic nerve head (ONH) as a biomechanical structure. That framework proposes important roles for intraocular pressure (IOP), IOP-related stress and strain, cerebrospinal fluid pressure (CSFp), systemic and ocular determinants of blood flow, inflammation, auto-immunity, genetics, and other non-IOP related risk factors in the physiology of ONH aging and the pathophysiology of glaucomatous damage to the ONH. The present report summarizes 20 years of technique development and study results pertinent to the characterization of ONH connective tissue deformation and remodeling in the unilateral monkey experimental glaucoma (EG) model. In it we propose that the defining pathophysiology of a glaucomatous optic neuropathy involves deformation, remodeling, and mechanical failure of the ONH connective tissues. We view this as an active process, driven by astrocyte, microglial, fibroblast and oligodendrocyte mechanobiology. These cells, and the connective tissue phenomena they propagate, have primary and secondary effects on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axon, laminar beam and retrolaminar capillary homeostasis that may initially be "protective" but eventually lead to RGC axonal injury, repair and/or cell death. The primary goal of this report is to summarize our 3D histomorphometric and optical coherence tomography (OCT)-based evidence for the early onset and progression of ONH connective tissue deformation and remodeling in monkey EG. A second goal is to explain the importance of including ONH connective tissue processes in characterizing the phenotype of a glaucomatous optic neuropathy in all species. A third goal is to summarize our current efforts to move from ONH morphology to the cell biology of connective tissue remodeling and axonal insult early in the disease. A final goal is to facilitate the translation of our findings and ideas into neuroprotective interventions that target these ONH phenomena for therapeutic effect. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Treatment of gingival recession defects with xenogenic collagen matrix: a histologic report.

PubMed

Camelo, Marcelo; Nevins, Myron; Nevins, Marc L; Schupbach, Peter; Kim, David M

2012-04-01

The connective tissue graft (CTG) in conjunction with a coronally advanced flap is still regarded as the gold standard treatment for gingival recession defects. Increased surgical morbidity as well as limited tissue availability continues to spur interest in alternatives to the CTG. The current case report examines a porcine-derived, double-layer collagen matrix as an alternative to the CTG in managing Miller Class I and II recession defects. A long junctional epithelial attachment as well as connective tissue adhesion were noted when collagen matrix was used in conjunction with a coronally advanced flap in recession treatment protocols. The results suggest that it is possible to obtain root coverage without harvesting connective tissue.

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumour-mixed connective tissue variant without oncogenic osteomalacia.

PubMed

Winters, R; Bihlmeyer, S; McCahill, L; Cooper, K

2009-08-01

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumour-mixed connective tissue variant is a rare tumour classically associated with oncogenic osteomalacia. This report describes two patients with this distinct tumour type but with no evidence of the paraneoplastic syndrome.

Parvovirus B19 infection in an adult presenting with connective tissue disease-like symptoms: a report of the clinical and histological findings.

PubMed

Liles, J E; Shalin, S C; White, B A; Trigg, L B; Kaley, J R

2017-06-15

Parvovirus B19 infections in adults are usually associated with nonspecific and mild symptoms. However, cases presenting with a lupus-like syndrome have been described, leading to the hypothesis that parvovirus infection can induce connective tissue disease. Various histopathologic features of cutaneous manifestations of parvovirus have been reported, including features which overlap with those of connective tissue disease. Herein, we discuss an unusual case of Parvovirus  B19 infection in a middle-aged woman. The biopsy results showed granulomatous vasculitis and were consistent with the previously described superantigen id reaction. This case demonstrates that infectious causes should be considered in the differential diagnosis for granulomatous vasculitis and clinicopathologic correlation is required for accurate diagnosis. We also provide a review of the literature highlighting the possible role of parvovirus in induction of a connective tissue disease-like presentation.

Vitamin K supplementation increases vitamin K tissue levels but fails to counteract ectopic calcification in a mouse model for pseudoxanthoma elasticum.

PubMed

Gorgels, Theo G M F; Waarsing, Jan H; Herfs, Marjolein; Versteeg, Daniëlle; Schoensiegel, Frank; Sato, Toshiro; Schlingemann, Reinier O; Ivandic, Boris; Vermeer, Cees; Schurgers, Leon J; Bergen, Arthur A B

2011-11-01

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is an autosomal recessive disorder in which calcification of connective tissue leads to pathology in skin, eye and blood vessels. PXE is caused by mutations in ABCC6. High expression of this transporter in the basolateral hepatocyte membrane suggests that it secretes an as-yet elusive factor into the circulation which prevents ectopic calcification. Utilizing our Abcc6 (-/-) mouse model for PXE, we tested the hypothesis that this factor is vitamin K (precursor) (Borst et al. 2008, Cell Cycle). For 3 months, Abcc6 (-/-) and wild-type mice were put on diets containing either the minimum dose of vitamin K required for normal blood coagulation or a dose that was 100 times higher. Vitamin K was supplied as menaquinone-7 (MK-7). Ectopic calcification was monitored in vivo by monthly micro-CT scans of the snout, as the PXE mouse model develops a characteristic connective tissue mineralization at the base of the whiskers. In addition, calcification of kidney arteries was measured by histology. Results show that supplemental MK-7 had no effect on ectopic calcification in Abcc6 ( -/- ) mice. MK-7 supplementation increased vitamin K levels (in skin, heart and brain) in wild-type and in Abcc6 (-/-) mice. Vitamin K tissue levels did not depend on Abcc6 genotype. In conclusion, dietary MK-7 supplementation increased vitamin K tissue levels in the PXE mouse model but failed to counteract ectopic calcification. Hence, we obtained no support for the hypothesis that Abcc6 transports vitamin K and that PXE can be cured by increasing tissue levels of vitamin K.

Human fetal enterocytes in vitro: modulation of the phenotype by extracellular matrix.

PubMed Central

Sanderson, I R; Ezzell, R M; Kedinger, M; Erlanger, M; Xu, Z X; Pringault, E; Leon-Robine, S; Louvard, D; Walker, W A

1996-01-01

The differentiation of small intestinal epithelial cells may require stimulation by microenvironmental factors in vivo. In this study, the effects of mesenchymal and luminal elements in nonmalignant epithelia] cells isolated from the human fetus were studied in vitro. Enterocytes from the human fetus were cultured and microenvironmental factors were added in stages, each stage more closely approximating the microenvironment in vivo. Four stages were examined: epithelial cells derived on plastic from intestinal culture and grown as a cell clone, the same cells grown on connective tissue support, primary epithelial explants grown on fibroblasts with a laminin base, and primary epithelial explants grown on fibroblasts and laminin with n-butyrate added to the incubation medium. The epithelial cell clone dedifferentiated when grown on plastic; however, the cells expressed cytokeratins and villin as evidence of their epithelial cell origin. Human connective tissue matrix from Engelbreth-Holm-Swarm sarcoma cells (Matrigel) modulated their phenotype: alkaline phosphatase activity increased, microvilli developed on their apical surface, and the profile of insulin-like growth factor binding proteins resembled that secreted by differentiated enterocytes. Epithelial cells taken directly from the human fetus as primary cultures and grown as explants on fibroblasts and laminin expressed greater specific enzyme activities in brush border membrane fractions than the cell clone. These activities were enhanced by the luminal molecule sodium butyrate. Thus the sequential addition of connective tissue and luminal molecules to nonmalignant epithelia] cells in vitro induces a spectrum of changes in the epithelial cell phenotype toward full differentiation. Images Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 Fig. 6 PMID:8755542

Refuting The Polemic Against the Extraocular Muscle Pulleys: Jampel and Shi’s Platygean View of Extraocular Muscle Mechanics

PubMed Central

Demer, Joseph L.

2007-01-01

Background Late in the 20th Century, it was recognized that connective tissue structures in the orbit influence the paths of the extraocular muscles, and constitute their functional origins. Targeted investigations of these connective tissue “pulleys” led to the formulation of the active pulley hypothesis, which proposes that pulling directions of the rectus extraocular muscles are actively controlled via connective tissues. Purpose This review rebuts a series of criticisms of the active pulley hypothesis published by Jampel, and Jampel and Shi, in which these authors have disputed the existence and function of the pulleys. Methods The current paper reviews published evidence for the existence of orbital pulleys, the active pulley hypothesis, and physiologic tests of the active pulley hypothesis. Magnetic resonance imaging in a living subject, and histological examination of a human cadaver directly illustrate the relationship of pulleys to extraocular muscles. Results Strong scientific evidence is cited that supports the existence of orbital pulleys, and their role in ocular motility. The criticisms of have ignored mathematical truisms and strong scientific evidence. Conclusions Actively controlled orbital pulleys play a fundamental role in ocular motility. Pulleys profoundly influence the neural commands required to control eye movements and binocular alignment. Familiarity with the anatomy and physiology of the pulleys is requisite for a rational approach to diagnosing and treating strabismus using emerging methods. Conversely, approaches that deny or ignore the pulleys risk the sorts of errors that arise in geography and navigation from incorrect assumptions such as those of a flat (“platygean”) earth. PMID:17022164

Large-scale tissue clearing (PACT): Technical evaluation and new perspectives in immunofluorescence, histology, and ultrastructure.

PubMed

Neckel, Peter H; Mattheus, Ulrich; Hirt, Bernhard; Just, Lothar; Mack, Andreas F

2016-09-29

Novel techniques, like CLARITY and PACT, render large tissue specimens transparent and thereby suitable for microscopic analysis. We used these techniques to evaluate their potential in the intestine as an exemplary organ with a complex tissue composition. Immunohistochemistry, light sheet-, and confocal scanning-microscopy enabled us to follow complex three-dimensional structures, like nerve fibers, vessels, and epithelial barriers throughout the entire organ. Moreover, in a systematic electron microscopic study, we analyzed the morphology and preservation of tissue on ultrastructural level during the clearing process. We also connect tissue clearing with classical histology and demonstrate that cleared tissues can be stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin and Heidenhain's Azan stain, suggesting potential use in histopathology. These experiments showed that a neutral pH during the clearing process results in much better preservation of tissue ultrastructure and standard stainability. Volume changes of specimens were monitored and quantified during the course of the protocol. Additionally, we employed the technique to visualize the enteric nervous system and the epithelial barrier in post mortem human gut preparations. Our data show the high potential of tissue clearing throughout different tissue types supporting its usefulness in research and diagnosis, and contribute to the technical discussion of ultrastructural tissue-retention.

Large-scale tissue clearing (PACT): Technical evaluation and new perspectives in immunofluorescence, histology, and ultrastructure

PubMed Central

Neckel, Peter H.; Mattheus, Ulrich; Hirt, Bernhard; Just, Lothar; Mack, Andreas F.

2016-01-01

Novel techniques, like CLARITY and PACT, render large tissue specimens transparent and thereby suitable for microscopic analysis. We used these techniques to evaluate their potential in the intestine as an exemplary organ with a complex tissue composition. Immunohistochemistry, light sheet-, and confocal scanning-microscopy enabled us to follow complex three-dimensional structures, like nerve fibers, vessels, and epithelial barriers throughout the entire organ. Moreover, in a systematic electron microscopic study, we analyzed the morphology and preservation of tissue on ultrastructural level during the clearing process. We also connect tissue clearing with classical histology and demonstrate that cleared tissues can be stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin and Heidenhain’s Azan stain, suggesting potential use in histopathology. These experiments showed that a neutral pH during the clearing process results in much better preservation of tissue ultrastructure and standard stainability. Volume changes of specimens were monitored and quantified during the course of the protocol. Additionally, we employed the technique to visualize the enteric nervous system and the epithelial barrier in post mortem human gut preparations. Our data show the high potential of tissue clearing throughout different tissue types supporting its usefulness in research and diagnosis, and contribute to the technical discussion of ultrastructural tissue-retention. PMID:27680942

TRIENNIAL LACTATION SYMPOSIUM/BOLFA: Plasticity of mammary development in the prepubertal bovine mammary gland.

PubMed

Akers, R M

2017-12-01

Although peripubertal mammary development represents only a small fraction of the total mass of mammary parenchyma present in the udder at the end of gestation and into lactation, there is increasing evidence that the tissue foundations created in early life can affect future mammary development and function. Studies on expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors seem to confirm the relevance of these steroids in prepubertal mammary development, but connections with other growth factors, hormones, and local tissue factors remain elusive. Enhanced preweaning feeding in the bovine appears to enhance the capacity of mammary tissue to response to mammogenic stimulation. This suggests the possibility that improved early nutrition might allow for creation of stem or progenitor cell populations to better support the massive ductal growth and lobulo-alveolar development during gestation. Increasing evidence that immune cells are involved in mammary development suggests there are unexpected and poorly understood connections between the immune system and mammary development. This is nearly unexplored in ruminants. Development of new tools to identify, isolate, and characterize cell populations within the developing bovine mammary gland offer the possibility of identifying and perhaps altering populations of mammary stem cells or selected progenitor cells to modulate mammary development and, possibly, mammary function.

Neurological Assessment and Nerve Conduction Study Findings in 22 Patients with Alkaptonuria from Jordan.

PubMed

Alrawashdeh, Omar; Alsbou, Mohammad; Alzoubi, Hamed; Al-Shagahin, Hani

2016-11-02

Alkaptonuria is a rare metabolic disease characterised by accumulative deposition of homogentisic acid in the connective tissue of the body. This results in early degeneration of tendons, cartilages, heart valves, and other tissues. The main objective of the study is to examine the possibility of the nervous system involvement in patients with alkaptonuria The sample consists of two groups; 22 patients with AKU and 20 controls. A neurological assessment has been carried out including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and a nerve conduction study of the nerves of the dominant hand. The prevalence of any abnormality was compared between the two groups using chi square test. The mean values of the nerve conduction study were compared between the two groups using student t-test. There was a higher prevalence of low back pain, hearing problems and tinnitus, numbness and neuropathic pain in alkaptonuria patients. There was no significant difference between the two groups in other conditions such as seizures, headache, and syncope. The values of the nerve conduction study did not show significant difference between the two groups. Neurologically related symptoms in alkaptonuria mostly represent complications of the connective tissue degeneration rather than direct involvement of the nervous system. This has been supported further by the normal findings of the neurophysiology study in patients with alkaptonuria.

Exploring the potential of polyurethane-based soft foam as cell-free scaffold for soft tissue regeneration.

PubMed

Gerges, Irini; Tamplenizza, Margherita; Martello, Federico; Recordati, Camilla; Martelli, Cristina; Ottobrini, Luisa; Tamplenizza, Mariacaterina; Guelcher, Scott A; Tocchio, Alessandro; Lenardi, Cristina

2018-06-01

Reconstructive treatment after trauma and tumor resection would greatly benefit from an effective soft tissue regeneration. The use of cell-free scaffolds for adipose tissue regeneration in vivo is emerging as an attractive alternative to tissue-engineered constructs, since this approach avoids complications due to cell manipulation and lack of synchronous vascularization. In this study, we developed a biodegradable polyurethane-based scaffold for soft tissue regeneration, characterized by an exceptional combination between softness and resilience. Exploring the potential as a cell-free scaffold required profound understanding of the impact of its intrinsic physico-chemical properties on the biological performance in vivo. We investigated the effect of the scaffold's hydrophilic character, degradation kinetics, and internal morphology on (i) the local inflammatory response and activation of MGCs (foreign body response); (ii) its ability to promote rapid vascularisation, cell infiltration and migration through the scaffold over time; and (iii) the grade of maturation of the newly formed tissue into vascularized soft tissue in a murine model. The study revealed that soft tissue regeneration in vivo proceeded by gradual infiltration of undifferentiated mesenchymal cells though the periphery toward the center of the scaffold, where the rapid formation of a functional and well-formed vascular network supported cell viability overtime. Exploring the potential of polyurethane-based soft foam as cell-free scaffold for soft tissue regeneration. In this work, we address the unmet need for synthetic functional soft tissue substitutes that provide adequate biological and mechanical support to soft tissue. We developed a series of flexible cross-linked polyurethane copolymer scaffolds with remarkable fatigue-resistance and tunable physico-chemical properties for soft tissue regeneration in vivo. Accordingly, we could extend the potential of this class of biomaterials, which was so far confined for bone and osteochondral tissue regeneration, to other types of connective tissue. Copyright © 2018 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

THE LOCALIZATION OF HOMOLGOUS PLASMA PROTEINS IN THE TISSUES OF YOUNG HUMAN BEINGS AS DEMONSTRATED WITH FLUORESCENT ANTIBODIES

PubMed Central

Gitlin, David; Landing, Benjamin H.; Whipple, Ann

1953-01-01

Employing fluorescent antibodies for the detection of homologous plasma proteins in tissue sections, the distribution of plasma albumin, γ-globulin, β-lipoprotein, β1-metal-combining globulin, and fibrinogen has been studied in the tissues of infants and children. Plasma albumin, γ-globulin, and β1-metal-combining globulin were found in many cells and particularly cell nuclei, connective tissues and interstitial spaces, lymphatics, and blood vessels. β-Lipoprotein was found mostly in the nuclei of all cell types while fibrinogen was restricted largely to the lymphatic and vascular channels, connective tissues and the interstitial spaces. The widespread distribution of these plasma proteins in cells and connective tissues indicates the magnitude of the extravascular plasma protein pool which is in equilibrium with circulating plasma. Unfortunately, these results do not permit accurate localization of the sites of production of these plasma proteins, but do give some idea of their intimate relationship to the tissues. PMID:13022871

Bone tissue formation in extraction sockets from sites with advanced periodontal disease: a histomorphometric study in humans.

PubMed

Ahn, Jae-Jin; Shin, Hong-In

2008-01-01

To investigate postextraction bone formation over time in both diseased and healthy sockets. Core specimens of healing tissues following tooth extraction were obtained at the time of implant placement in patients treated between October 2005 and December 2007. A disease group and a control group were classified according to socket examination at the time of extraction. The biopsy specimens were analyzed histomorphometrically to measure the dimensional changes among 3 tissue types: epithelial layer, connective tissue area, and new bone tissue area. Fifty-five specimens from sites of previously advanced periodontal disease from 45 patients were included in the disease group. Another 12 specimens of previously healthy extraction sockets were collected from 12 different patients as a control. The postextraction period of the disease group varied from 2 to 42 weeks. In the disease group, connective tissue occupied most of the socket during the first 4 weeks. New bone area progressively replaced the connective tissue area after the first 4 weeks. The area proportion of new bone tissue exceeded that of connective tissue by 14 weeks. After 20 weeks, most extraction sockets in the disease group demonstrated continuous new bone formation. The control group exhibited almost complete socket healing after 10 weeks, with no more new bone formation after 20 weeks. Osseous regeneration in the diseased sockets developed more slowly than in the disease-free sockets. After 16 weeks, new bone area exceeded 50% of the total newly regenerated tissue in the sockets with severe periodontal destruction. In the control group, after 8 weeks, new bone area exceeded 50% of the total tissue.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection and its association with heritable connective tissue disorders.

PubMed

Henkin, Stanislav; Negrotto, Sara M; Tweet, Marysia S; Kirmani, Salman; Deyle, David R; Gulati, Rajiv; Olson, Timothy M; Hayes, Sharonne N

2016-06-01

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is an under-recognised but important cause of myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death. We sought to determine the role of medical and molecular genetic screening for connective tissue disorders in patients with SCAD. We performed a single-centre retrospective descriptive analysis of patients with spontaneous coronary artery disease who had undergone medical genetics evaluation 1984-2014 (n=116). The presence or absence of traits suggestive of heritable connective tissue disease was extracted. Genetic testing for connective tissue disorders and/or aortopathies, if performed, is also reported. Of the 116 patients (mean age 44.2 years, 94.8% women and 41.4% with non-coronary fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD)), 59 patients underwent genetic testing, of whom 3 (5.1%) received a diagnosis of connective tissue disorder: a 50-year-old man with Marfan syndrome; a 43-year-old woman with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and FMD; and a 45-year-old woman with vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. An additional 12 patients (20.3%) had variants of unknown significance, none of which was thought to be a definite disease-causing mutation based on in silico analyses. Only a minority of patients with SCAD who undergo genetic evaluation have a likely pathogenic mutation identified on gene panel testing. Even fewer exhibit clinical features of connective tissue disorder. These findings underscore the need for further studies to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of SCAD. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Effect of Tissucol on connective tissue matrix during wound healing: an immunohistochemical study in rat skin.

PubMed

Romanos, G E; Strub, J R

1998-03-05

Fibrin sealants are very useful in different surgical fields. Fixation of free gingival grafts, root coverage procedures, and other techniques increasing connective tissue attachment may be associated with the application of Tissucol in periodontology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of the fibrin sealant in the extracellular matrix, as well as alterations of the connective tissue matrix during wound-healing processes. In the back dermis of 15 Net male rats, Tissucol was implanted after intraperitoneal anesthesia. The implant material was placed in subcutaneous pockets (2 cm in length) which were sutured with interproximal sutures (test and control pockets). At 4, 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after surgery, biopsies of the healed and surrounding tissues were taken, frozen in liquid nitrogen, and examined histologically and immunohistochemically with antibodies against collagen types I, III, IV, V, VI, and VII. The findings showed thick and thin collagen type I and III fibers, respectively, with different orientations localized around the implant material. An increased amount of blood vessels and capillaries (their basement membranes containing collagen type IV) was observed during wound healing which may be associated with the implantation of the sealant. Collagen type V fibers were localized from the first days to the 4th postoperative week and, without any inflammatory reaction (according to histologic staining), formed a fibrillar extracellular matrix with high collagenase resistance. Collagen type VI showed a microfibrillar pattern of distribution, and collagen type VII was localized in the dermo epidermo junction and very deep in the connective tissue in the form of anchoring fibers (only in the test group) during the 4 postoperative weeks of healing. The data showed that Tissucol is a biocompatible component which cannot produce any extensive inflammatory reaction in the matrix. New blood vessel formation, an epithelial-connective tissue interface with high stability, as well as matrix alterations with high resistance in the proteolytic enzymes (i.e., collagenases) can be induced in the connective tissue after use of a fibrin sealant. All of these characteristics may be of great importance in connective tissue healing in periodontal surgical procedures.

Stress analysis in oral obturator prostheses, part II: photoelastic imaging

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pesqueira, Aldiéris Alves; Goiato, Marcelo Coelho; da Silva, Emily Vivianne Freitas; Haddad, Marcela Filié; Moreno, Amália; Zahoui, Abbas; dos Santos, Daniela Micheline

2014-06-01

In part I of the study, two attachment systems [O-ring; bar-clip (BC)] were used, and the system with three individualized O-rings provided the lowest stress on the implants and the support tissues. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the stress distribution, through the photoelastic method, on implant-retained palatal obturator prostheses associated with different attachment systems: BOC-splinted implants with a bar connected to two centrally placed O-rings, and BOD-splinted implants with a BC connected to two distally placed O-rings (cantilever). One photoelastic model of the maxilla with oral-sinus-nasal communication with three parallel implants was fabricated. Afterward, two implant-retained palatal obturator prostheses with the two attachment systems described above were constructed. Each assembly was positioned in a circular polariscope and a 100-N axial load was applied in three different regions with implants by using a universal testing machine. The results were obtained through photograph record analysis of stress. The BOD system exhibited the highest stress concentration, followed by the BOC system. The O-ring, centrally placed on the bar, allows higher mobility of the prostheses and homogeneously distributes the stress to the region of the alveolar ridge and implants. It can be concluded that the use of implants with O-rings, isolated or connected with a bar, to rehabilitate maxillectomized patients allows higher prosthesis mobility and homogeneously distributes the stress to the alveolar ridge region, which may result in greater chewing stress distribution to implants and bone tissue. The clinical implication of the augmented bone support loss after maxillectomy is the increase of stress in the attachment systems and, consequently, a higher tendency for displacement of the prosthesis.

Microgravity Stress: Bone and Connective Tissue.

PubMed

Bloomfield, Susan A; Martinez, Daniel A; Boudreaux, Ramon D; Mantri, Anita V

2016-03-15

The major alterations in bone and the dense connective tissues in humans and animals exposed to microgravity illustrate the dependency of these tissues' function on normal gravitational loading. Whether these alterations depend solely on the reduced mechanical loading of zero g or are compounded by fluid shifts, altered tissue blood flow, radiation exposure, and altered nutritional status is not yet well defined. Changes in the dense connective tissues and intervertebral disks are generally smaller in magnitude but occur more rapidly than those in mineralized bone with transitions to 0 g and during recovery once back to the loading provided by 1 g conditions. However, joint injuries are projected to occur much more often than the more catastrophic bone fracture during exploration class missions, so protecting the integrity of both tissues is important. This review focuses on the research performed over the last 20 years in humans and animals exposed to actual spaceflight, as well as on knowledge gained from pertinent ground-based models such as bed rest in humans and hindlimb unloading in rodents. Significant progress has been made in our understanding of the mechanisms for alterations in bone and connective tissues with exposure to microgravity, but intriguing questions remain to be solved, particularly with reference to biomedical risks associated with prolonged exploration missions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Tissue Integration of a Volume-Stable Collagen Matrix in an Experimental Soft Tissue Augmentation Model.

PubMed

Ferrantino, Luca; Bosshardt, Dieter; Nevins, Myron; Santoro, Giacomo; Simion, Massimo; Kim, David

Reducing the need for a connective tissue graft by using an efficacious biomaterial is an important task for dental professionals and patients. This experimental study aimed to test the soft tissue response to a volume-stable new collagen matrix. The device demonstrated good stability during six different time points ranging from 0 to 90 days of healing with no alteration of the wound-healing processes. The 90-day histologic specimen demonstrates eventual replacement of most of the matrix with new connective tissue fibers.

Polydopamine deposition with anodic oxidation for better connective tissue attachment to transmucosal implants.

PubMed

Teng, F; Chen, H; Xu, Y; Liu, Y; Ou, G

2018-04-01

Nowadays, most designs for the transmucosal surface of implants are machined-smooth. However, connective tissue adhered to the smooth surface of an implant has poor mechanical resistance, which can render separation of tissue from the implant interface and induce epithelial downgrowth. Modification of the transmucosal surface of implants, which can help form a good seal of connective tissue, is therefore desired. We hypothesized that anodic oxidation (AO) and polydopamine (PD) deposition could be used to enhance the attachment between an implant and peri-implant connective tissue. We tested this hypothesis in the mandibles of Beagle dogs. AO and PD were used to modify the transmucosal region of transmucosal implants (implant neck). The surface microstructure, surface roughness and elemental composition were investigated in vitro. L929 mouse fibroblasts were cultured to test the effect of PD on cell adhesion. Six Beagle dogs were used for the in vivo experiment (n = 6 dogs per group). Three months after building the edentulous animal model, four groups of implants (control, AO, PD and AO + PD) were inserted. After 4 months of healing, samples were harvested for histometric analyses. The surfaces of anodized implant necks were overlaid with densely distributed pores, 2-7 μm in size. On the PD-modified surfaces, N1s, the chemical bond of nitrogen in PD, was detected using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. L929 developed pseudopods more quickly on the PD-modified surfaces than on the surfaces of the control group. The in vivo experiment showed a longer connective tissue seal and a more coronally located peri-implant soft-tissue attachment in the AO + PD group than in the control group (P < .05). The modification of AO + PD on the implant neck yielded better attachment between the implant and peri-implant connective tissue. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Exostosis following a subepithelial connective tissue graft.

PubMed

Corsair, A J; Iacono, V J; Moss, S S

2001-04-01

This case report describes the formation of an unusual unaesthetic gingival enlargement during a five year post operative period subsequent to a subepithelial connective tissue graft placed facial to teeth #4 and #6. Histological assessment of the enlarged tissue indicated that it consisted of viable bone and marrow. The exostosis was reduced with rotary instruments and acceptable soft tissue aesthetics were created using a carbon dioxide laser for gingivoplasty. Possible causes for this unusual enlargement are discussed.

A survey of clearing techniques for 3D imaging of tissues with special reference to connective tissue.

PubMed

Azaripour, Adriano; Lagerweij, Tonny; Scharfbillig, Christina; Jadczak, Anna Elisabeth; Willershausen, Brita; Van Noorden, Cornelis J F

2016-08-01

For 3-dimensional (3D) imaging of a tissue, 3 methodological steps are essential and their successful application depends on specific characteristics of the type of tissue. The steps are 1° clearing of the opaque tissue to render it transparent for microscopy, 2° fluorescence labeling of the tissues and 3° 3D imaging. In the past decades, new methodologies were introduced for the clearing steps with their specific advantages and disadvantages. Most clearing techniques have been applied to the central nervous system and other organs that contain relatively low amounts of connective tissue including extracellular matrix. However, tissues that contain large amounts of extracellular matrix such as dermis in skin or gingiva are difficult to clear. The present survey lists methodologies that are available for clearing of tissues for 3D imaging. We report here that the BABB method using a mixture of benzyl alcohol and benzyl benzoate and iDISCO using dibenzylether (DBE) are the most successful methods for clearing connective tissue-rich gingiva and dermis of skin for 3D histochemistry and imaging of fluorescence using light-sheet microscopy. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier GmbH.. All rights reserved.

EDITORIAL Neuroglia as a Central Element of Neurological Diseases: An Underappreciated Target for Therapeutic Intervention

PubMed Central

Peng, Liang; Parpura, Vladimir; Verkhratsky, Alexei

2014-01-01

Neuroglia of the central nervous system (CNS), represented by cells of neural (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and NG2 glial cells) and myeloid (microglia) origins are fundamental for homeostasis of the nervous tissue. Astrocytes are critical for the development of the CNS, they are indispensable for synaptogenesis, and they define structural organisation of the nervous tissue, as well as the generation and maintenance of CNS-blood and cerebrospinal fluid-blood barriers. Astroglial cells control homeostasis of ions and neurotransmitters and provide neurones with metabolic support. Oligodendrocytes, through the process of myelination, as well as by homoeostatic support of axons provide for interneuronal connectivity. The NG2 cells receive direct synaptic inputs, and might be important elements of adult remyelination. Microglial cells, which originate from foetal macrophages invading the brain early in embryogenesis, shape the synaptic connections through removing of redundant synapses and phagocyting apoptotic neurones. Neuroglia also form the defensive system of the CNS through complex and context-specific programmes of activation, known as reactive gliosis. Many neurological diseases are associated with neurogliopathologies represented by asthenic and atrophic changes in glial cells that, through the loss or diminution of their homeostatic and defensive functions, assist evolution of pathology. Conceptually, neurological and psychiatric disorders can be regarded as failures of neuroglial homeostatic/ defensive responses, and, hence, glia represent a (much underappreciated) target for therapeutic intervention. PMID:25342938

Design and analysis of tactile optical sensor for endovascular surgery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qasaimeh, M. A.; Dargahi, J.; Kahrizi, M.; Packirisamy, M.

2007-06-01

In this paper, design and Finite Element analysis of a new tactile optical sensor for the measurement of contact-pressure and tissue compliance in endovascular surgeries are presented. Using Micro-Electro-Mechanical-Systems (MEMS) technology, this sensor can be fabricated and integrated with the medical tools for endovascular surgeries such as Catheter tool. The designed sensor is capable of detecting the magnitude of the applied forces, the pressure distribution on contact objects, and also estimating the compliance of the contact tissue. The designed sensor is made of three layers, the upper layer is fabricated from monocrystalline silicon to form silicon membranes, the middle layer which is the supporting element is fabricated from both silicon and silicone rubber as a soft material and the lower layer is a supporting Plexiglas substrate to connect the designed sensor to the optical fibers. Simulation results show that for the given contact forces, the magnitude and the distribution of contacting tissues pressure along with tissue compliance can be determined. This sensor as proposed is a good candidate for batch micromachining, which is yet another commercial advantage for this design. Because of its less expensive cost, the surgeon can use it as a disposal part of the endovascular tools, requiring no re-sterilization and reducing the cost of surgery.

The myofibroblast, multiple origins for major roles in normal and pathological tissue repair

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Myofibroblasts differentiate, invade and repair injured tissues by secreting and organizing the extracellular matrix and by developing contractile forces. When tissues are damaged, tissue homeostasis must be re-established, and repair mechanisms have to rapidly provide harmonious mechanical tissue organization, a process essentially supported by (myo)fibroblasts. Under physiological conditions, the secretory and contractile activities of myofibroblasts are terminated when the repair is complete (scar formation) but the functionality of the tissue is only rarely perfectly restored. At the end of the normal repair process, myofibroblasts disappear by apoptosis but in pathological situations, myofibroblasts likely remain leading to excessive scarring. Myofibroblasts originate from different precursor cells, the major contribution being from local recruitment of connective tissue fibroblasts. However, local mesenchymal stem cells, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells and cells derived from an epithelial-mesenchymal transition process, may represent alternative sources of myofibroblasts when local fibroblasts are not able to satisfy the requirement for these cells during repair. These diverse cell types probably contribute to the appearance of myofibroblast subpopulations which show specific biological properties and which are important to understand in order to develop new therapeutic strategies for treatment of fibrotic and scarring diseases. PMID:23259712

Evidence of structurally continuous collagen fibrils in tendons.

PubMed

Svensson, Rene B; Herchenhan, Andreas; Starborg, Tobias; Larsen, Michael; Kadler, Karl E; Qvortrup, Klaus; Magnusson, S Peter

2017-03-01

Tendons transmit muscle-generated force through an extracellular matrix of aligned collagen fibrils. The force applied by the muscle at one end of a microscopic fibril has to be transmitted through the macroscopic length of the tendon by mechanisms that are poorly understood. A key element in this structure-function relationship is the collagen fibril length. During embryogenesis short fibrils are produced but they grow rapidly with maturation. There is some controversy regarding fibril length in adult tendon, with mechanical data generally supporting discontinuity while structural investigations favor continuity. This study initially set out to trace the full length of individual fibrils in adult human tendons, using serial block face-scanning electron microscopy. But even with this advanced technique the required length could not be covered. Instead a statistical approach was used on a large volume of fibrils in shorter image stacks. Only a single end was observed after tracking 67.5mm of combined fibril lengths, in support of fibril continuity. To shed more light on this observation, the full length of a short tendon (mouse stapedius, 125μm) was investigated and continuity of individual fibrils was confirmed. In light of these results, possible mechanisms that could reconcile the opposing findings on fibril continuity are discussed. Connective tissues hold all parts of the body together and are mostly constructed from thin threads of the protein collagen (called fibrils). Connective tissues provide mechanical strength and one of the most demanding tissues in this regard are tendons, which transmit the forces generated by muscles. The length of the collagen fibrils is essential to the mechanical strength and to the type of damage the tissue may experience (slippage of short fibrils or breakage of longer ones). This in turn is important for understanding the repair processes after such damage occurs. Currently the issue of fibril length is contentious, but this study provides evidence that the fibrils are extremely long and likely continuous. Copyright © 2017 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Connective tissue ulcers.

PubMed

Dabiri, Ganary; Falanga, Vincent

2013-11-01

Connective tissue disorders (CTD), which are often also termed collagen vascular diseases, include a number of related inflammatory conditions. Some of these diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), localized scleroderma (morphea variants localized to the skin), Sjogren's syndrome, dermatomyositis, polymyositis, and mixed connective tissue disease. In addition to the systemic manifestations of these diseases, there are a number of cutaneous features that make these conditions recognizable on physical exam. Lower extremity ulcers and digital ulcers are an infrequent but disabling complication of long-standing connective tissue disease. The exact frequency with which these ulcers occur is not known, and the cause of the ulcerations is often multifactorial. Moreover, a challenging component of CTD ulcerations is that there are still no established guidelines for their diagnosis and treatment. The morbidity associated with these ulcerations and their underlying conditions is very substantial. Indeed, these less common but intractable ulcers represent a major medical and economic problem for patients, physicians and nurses, and even well organized multidisciplinary wound healing centers. Copyright © 2013 Tissue Viability Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Cross-ancestry genome-wide association analysis of corneal thickness strengthens link between complex and Mendelian eye diseases.

PubMed

Iglesias, Adriana I; Mishra, Aniket; Vitart, Veronique; Bykhovskaya, Yelena; Höhn, René; Springelkamp, Henriët; Cuellar-Partida, Gabriel; Gharahkhani, Puya; Bailey, Jessica N Cooke; Willoughby, Colin E; Li, Xiaohui; Yazar, Seyhan; Nag, Abhishek; Khawaja, Anthony P; Polašek, Ozren; Siscovick, David; Mitchell, Paul; Tham, Yih Chung; Haines, Jonathan L; Kearns, Lisa S; Hayward, Caroline; Shi, Yuan; van Leeuwen, Elisabeth M; Taylor, Kent D; Bonnemaijer, Pieter; Rotter, Jerome I; Martin, Nicholas G; Zeller, Tanja; Mills, Richard A; Staffieri, Sandra E; Jonas, Jost B; Schmidtmann, Irene; Boutin, Thibaud; Kang, Jae H; Lucas, Sionne E M; Wong, Tien Yin; Beutel, Manfred E; Wilson, James F; Uitterlinden, André G; Vithana, Eranga N; Foster, Paul J; Hysi, Pirro G; Hewitt, Alex W; Khor, Chiea Chuen; Pasquale, Louis R; Montgomery, Grant W; Klaver, Caroline C W; Aung, Tin; Pfeiffer, Norbert; Mackey, David A; Hammond, Christopher J; Cheng, Ching-Yu; Craig, Jamie E; Rabinowitz, Yaron S; Wiggs, Janey L; Burdon, Kathryn P; van Duijn, Cornelia M; MacGregor, Stuart

2018-05-14

Central corneal thickness (CCT) is a highly heritable trait associated with complex eye diseases such as keratoconus and glaucoma. We perform a genome-wide association meta-analysis of CCT and identify 19 novel regions. In addition to adding support for known connective tissue-related pathways, pathway analyses uncover previously unreported gene sets. Remarkably, >20% of the CCT-loci are near or within Mendelian disorder genes. These included FBN1, ADAMTS2 and TGFB2 which associate with connective tissue disorders (Marfan, Ehlers-Danlos and Loeys-Dietz syndromes), and the LUM-DCN-KERA gene complex involved in myopia, corneal dystrophies and cornea plana. Using index CCT-increasing variants, we find a significant inverse correlation in effect sizes between CCT and keratoconus (r = -0.62, P = 5.30 × 10 -5 ) but not between CCT and primary open-angle glaucoma (r = -0.17, P = 0.2). Our findings provide evidence for shared genetic influences between CCT and keratoconus, and implicate candidate genes acting in collagen and extracellular matrix regulation.

Evidence of aortic dissection and Marfan syndrome in a mummy from the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo, Sicily.

PubMed

Panzer, Stephanie; Thompson, Randall C; Hergan, Klaus; Zink, Albert R; Piombino-Mascali, Dario

2018-06-08

The authors report on the assessment of an anthropogenic mummy of a young man from the Capuchin Catacombs of Palermo, Sicily, tentatively dated from the mid- to late 19 th century AD. The mummy was investigated by full-body CT examination. CT images clearly showed aortic dissection classified as Stanford-A. Due to the relation of aortic dissection to inherited connective tissue diseases in young people, such as Marfan syndrome, conspicuous and pathological findings possibly indicating the presence of underlying Marfan syndrome were assessed. Several systemic features were scored that supported the presence of underlying Marfan syndrome in this mummy. These findings were: pectus carinatum and chest asymmetry, dural ectasia, protrusio acetabuli, dolichocephaly, down-slanting palpebral fissures, malar hypoplasia and (probable) reduced elbow extension. Aortic dissection, a cardinal feature of Marfan syndrome, turned out to be the diagnostic key for the paleoradiological diagnosis of this disease. The demonstrated CT findings contribute to the spectrum of cardiovascular diseases and inherited connective tissue disease in the fields of paleopathology and paleoradiology. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Outcomes of sympathectomy and vascular bypass for digital ischaemia in connective tissue disorders.

PubMed

Shammas, R L; Hwang, B H; Levin, L S; Richard, M J; Ruch, D S; Mithani, S K

2017-10-01

All patients (36 hands) with connective tissue disorders who underwent periarterial sympathectomy of the hand alone or in conjunction with vascular bypass at our institution between 1995-2013 were reviewed. The durable resolution of ulcers was significantly higher in patients treated by periarterial sympathectomy and bypass than in patients treated by periarterial sympathectomy alone. Although there were more digital amputations in patients treated by periarterial sympathectomy alone, the difference was not statistically significant. Vascular bypass in conjunction with sympathectomy may be better than sympathectomy alone in patients with digital ischaemia related to connective tissue disorders. IV.

Personal Authentication Analysis Using Finger-Vein Patterns in Patients with Connective Tissue Diseases—Possible Association with Vascular Disease and Seasonal Change -

PubMed Central

Kono, Miyuki; Miura, Naoto; Fujii, Takao; Ohmura, Koichiro; Yoshifuji, Hajime; Yukawa, Naoichiro; Imura, Yoshitaka; Nakashima, Ran; Ikeda, Takaharu; Umemura, Shin-ichiro; Miyatake, Takafumi; Mimori, Tsuneyo

2015-01-01

Objective To examine how connective tissue diseases affect finger-vein pattern authentication. Methods The finger-vein patterns of 68 patients with connective tissue diseases and 24 healthy volunteers were acquired. Captured as CCD (charge-coupled device) images by transmitting near-infrared light through fingers, they were followed up in once in each season for one year. The similarity of the follow-up patterns and the initial one was evaluated in terms of their normalized cross-correlation C. Results The mean C values calculated for patients tended to be lower than those calculated for healthy volunteers. In midwinter (February in Japan) they showed statistically significant reduction both as compared with patients in other seasons and as compared with season-matched healthy controls, whereas the values calculated for healthy controls showed no significant seasonal changes. Values calculated for patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc) or mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) showed major reductions in November and, especially, February. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and patients with dermatomyositis or polymyositis (DM/PM) did not show statistically significant seasonal changes in C values. Conclusions Finger-vein patterns can be used throughout the year to identify patients with connective tissue diseases, but some attention is needed for patients with advanced disease such as SSc. PMID:26701644

Recessive and dominant mutations in COL12A1 cause a novel EDS/myopathy overlap syndrome in humans and mice

PubMed Central

Zou, Yaqun; Zwolanek, Daniela; Izu, Yayoi; Gandhy, Shreya; Schreiber, Gudrun; Brockmann, Knut; Devoto, Marcella; Tian, Zuozhen; Hu, Ying; Veit, Guido; Meier, Markus; Stetefeld, Jörg; Hicks, Debbie; Straub, Volker; Voermans, Nicol C.; Birk, David E.; Barton, Elisabeth R.; Koch, Manuel; Bönnemann, Carsten G.

2014-01-01

Collagen VI-related myopathies are disorders of connective tissue presenting with an overlap phenotype combining clinical involvement from the muscle and from the connective tissue. Not all patients displaying related overlap phenotypes between muscle and connective tissue have mutations in collagen VI. Here, we report a homozygous recessive loss of function mutation and a de novo dominant mutation in collagen XII (COL12A1) as underlying a novel overlap syndrome involving muscle and connective tissue. Two siblings homozygous for a loss of function mutation showed widespread joint hyperlaxity combined with weakness precluding independent ambulation, while the patient with the de novo missense mutation was more mildly affected, showing improvement including the acquisition of walking. A mouse model with inactivation of the Col12a1 gene showed decreased grip strength, a delay in fiber-type transition and a deficiency in passive force generation while the muscle seems more resistant to eccentric contraction induced force drop, indicating a role for a matrix-based passive force-transducing elastic element in the generation of the weakness. This new muscle connective tissue overlap syndrome expands on the emerging importance of the muscle extracellular matrix in the pathogenesis of muscle disease. PMID:24334604

Esophageal involvement and interstitial lung disease in mixed connective tissue disease.

PubMed

Fagundes, M N; Caleiro, M T C; Navarro-Rodriguez, T; Baldi, B G; Kavakama, J; Salge, J M; Kairalla, R; Carvalho, C R R

2009-06-01

Mixed connective tissue disease is a systemic inflammatory disorder that results in both pulmonary and esophageal manifestations. We sought to evaluate the relationship between esophageal dysfunction and interstitial lung disease in patients with mixed connective tissue disease. We correlated the pulmonary function data and the high-resolution computed tomography findings of interstitial lung disease with the results of esophageal evaluation in manometry, 24-hour intraesophageal pH measurements, and the presence of esophageal dilatation on computed tomography scan. Fifty consecutive patients with mixed connective tissue disease, according to Kasukawa's classification criteria, were included in this prospective study. High-resolution computed tomography parenchymal abnormalities were present in 39 of 50 patients. Esophageal dilatation, gastroesophageal reflux, and esophageal motor impairment were also very prevalent (28 of 50, 18 of 36, and 30 of 36, respectively). The presence of interstitial lung disease on computed tomography was significantly higher among patients with esophageal dilatation (92% vs. 45%; p<0.01) and among patients with severe motor dysfunction (90% vs. 35%; p<0.001). Although we were not able to prove a causal relationship between esophageal and pulmonary involvement, our series revealed a strong association between esophageal motor dysfunction and interstitial lung disease in patients with mixed connective tissue disease.

PDGFRα plays a crucial role in connective tissue remodeling.

PubMed

Horikawa, Shinjiro; Ishii, Yoko; Hamashima, Takeru; Yamamoto, Seiji; Mori, Hisashi; Fujimori, Toshihiko; Shen, Jie; Inoue, Ran; Nishizono, Hirofumi; Itoh, Hiroshi; Majima, Masataka; Abraham, David; Miyawaki, Toshio; Sasahara, Masakiyo

2015-12-07

Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) plays a pivotal role in the remodeling of connective tissues. Emerging data indicate the distinctive role of PDGF receptor-α (PDGFRα) in this process. In the present study, the Pdgfra gene was systemically inactivated in adult mouse (α-KO mouse), and the role of PDGFRα was examined in the subcutaneously implanted sponge matrices. PDGFRα expressed in the fibroblasts of Pdgfra-preserving control mice (Flox mice), was significantly reduced in the sponges in α-KO mice. Neovascularized areas were largely suppressed in the α-KO mice than in the Flox mice, whereas the other parameters related to the blood vessels and endothelial cells were similar. The deposition of collagen and fibronectin and the expression of collagen 1a1 and 3a1 genes were significantly reduced in α-KO mice. There was a significantly decrease in the number and dividing fibroblasts in the α-KO mice, and those of macrophages were similar between the two genotypes. Hepatocyte growth factor (Hgf) gene expression was suppressed in Pdgfra-inactivated fibroblasts and connective tissue. The findings implicate the role of PDGFRα-dependent ECM and HGF production in fibroblasts that promotes the remodeling of connective tissue and suggest that PDGFRα may be a relevant target to regulate connective tissue remodeling.

PDGFRα plays a crucial role in connective tissue remodeling

PubMed Central

Horikawa, Shinjiro; Ishii, Yoko; Hamashima, Takeru; Yamamoto, Seiji; Mori, Hisashi; Fujimori, Toshihiko; Shen, Jie; Inoue, Ran; Nishizono, Hirofumi; Itoh, Hiroshi; Majima, Masataka; Abraham, David; Miyawaki, Toshio; Sasahara, Masakiyo

2015-01-01

Platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) plays a pivotal role in the remodeling of connective tissues. Emerging data indicate the distinctive role of PDGF receptor-α (PDGFRα) in this process. In the present study, the Pdgfra gene was systemically inactivated in adult mouse (α-KO mouse), and the role of PDGFRα was examined in the subcutaneously implanted sponge matrices. PDGFRα expressed in the fibroblasts of Pdgfra-preserving control mice (Flox mice), was significantly reduced in the sponges in α-KO mice. Neovascularized areas were largely suppressed in the α-KO mice than in the Flox mice, whereas the other parameters related to the blood vessels and endothelial cells were similar. The deposition of collagen and fibronectin and the expression of collagen 1a1 and 3a1 genes were significantly reduced in α-KO mice. There was a significantly decrease in the number and dividing fibroblasts in the α-KO mice, and those of macrophages were similar between the two genotypes. Hepatocyte growth factor (Hgf) gene expression was suppressed in Pdgfra-inactivated fibroblasts and connective tissue. The findings implicate the role of PDGFRα-dependent ECM and HGF production in fibroblasts that promotes the remodeling of connective tissue and suggest that PDGFRα may be a relevant target to regulate connective tissue remodeling. PMID:26639755

Immunohistochemical study of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin in healthy and diseased root surfaces.

PubMed

Lao, Martin; Marino, Victor; Bartold, P Mark

2006-10-01

Periodontal disease is marked by inflammation and damage to tooth-supporting tissues. In particular, damage occurs to factors present in cementum that are thought to have the ability to influence the regeneration of surrounding tissues. Bone sialoprotein and osteopontin are major non-collagenous proteins in mineralized connective tissues associated with precementoblast chemo-attraction, adhesion to the root surface, and cell differentiation. The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether the expression and distribution of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin on root surfaces affected by periodontitis are altered compared to healthy, non-diseased root surfaces. Thirty healthy and 30 periodontitis-affected teeth were collected. Following fixation and demineralization, specimens were embedded in paraffin, sectioned, and exposed to antibodies against bone sialoprotein and osteopontin. Stained sections were assessed using light microscopy. Bone sialoprotein was not detected in the exposed cementum (absence of overlying periodontal ligament) of diseased teeth. In most areas where the periodontal ligament was intact, bone sialoprotein was detected for healthy and diseased teeth. For teeth reactive for bone sialoprotein, the matrix of the cementum just below the periodontal ligament was moderately stained. A similar immunoreactivity pattern for osteopontin was observed. The absence of bone sialoprotein and osteopontin staining along exposed cementum surfaces may be due to structural and compositional changes in matrix components associated with periodontal disease. This may influence the ability for regeneration and new connective tissue attachment onto previously diseased root surfaces.

Comparative clinical study of a subepithelial connective tissue graft and acellular dermal matrix graft for the treatment of gingival recessions: six- to 12-month changes.

PubMed

de Souza, Sérgio Luís Scombatti; Novaes, Arthur Belém; Grisi, Daniela Corrêa; Taba, Mário; Grisi, Márcio Fernando de Moraes; de Andrade, Patrícia Freitas

2008-07-01

Different techniques have been proposed for the treatment of gingival recession. This study compared the clinical results of gingival recession treatment using a subepithelial connective tissue graft and an acellular dermal matrix allograft. Seven patients with bilateral Miller class I or II gingival recession were selected. Twenty-six recessions were treated and randomly assigned to the test group. In each case the contralateral recession was assigned to the control group. In the control group, a connective tissue graft in combination with a coronally positioned flap was used; in the test group, an acellular dermal matrix allograft was used as a substitute for palatal donor tissue. Probing depth, clinical attachment level, gingival recession, and width of keratinized tissue were measured two weeks prior to surgery and at six and 12 months post-surgery. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in terms of recession reduction, clinical attachment gain, probing pocket depth, and increase in the width of the keratinized tissue after six or 12 months. There was no statistically significant increase in the width of keratinized tissue between six and 12 months for either group. Within the limitations of this study, it can be suggested that the acellular dermal matrix allograft may be a substitute for palatal donor tissue in root coverage procedures and that the time required for additional gain in the amount of keratinized tissue may be greater for the acellular dermal matrix than for the connective tissue procedures.

Viscoelastic Properties of Human Tracheal Tissues.

PubMed

Safshekan, Farzaneh; Tafazzoli-Shadpour, Mohammad; Abdouss, Majid; Shadmehr, Mohammad B

2017-01-01

The physiological performance of trachea is highly dependent on its mechanical behavior, and therefore, the mechanical properties of its components. Mechanical characterization of trachea is key to succeed in new treatments such as tissue engineering, which requires the utilization of scaffolds which are mechanically compatible with the native human trachea. In this study, after isolating human trachea samples from brain-dead cases and proper storage, we assessed the viscoelastic properties of tracheal cartilage, smooth muscle, and connective tissue based on stress relaxation tests (at 5% and 10% strains for cartilage and 20%, 30%, and 40% for smooth muscle and connective tissue). After investigation of viscoelastic linearity, constitutive models including Prony series for linear viscoelasticity and quasi-linear viscoelastic, modified superposition, and Schapery models for nonlinear viscoelasticity were fitted to the experimental data to find the best model for each tissue. We also investigated the effect of age on the viscoelastic behavior of tracheal tissues. Based on the results, all three tissues exhibited a (nonsignificant) decrease in relaxation rate with increasing the strain, indicating viscoelastic nonlinearity which was most evident for cartilage and with the least effect for connective tissue. The three-term Prony model was selected for describing the linear viscoelasticity. Among different models, the modified superposition model was best able to capture the relaxation behavior of the three tracheal components. We observed a general (but not significant) stiffening of tracheal cartilage and connective tissue with aging. No change in the stress relaxation percentage with aging was observed. The results of this study may be useful in the design and fabrication of tracheal tissue engineering scaffolds.

A biomechanical evaluation to optimize the configuration of a hinged external fixator for the primary treatment of severely displaced intraarticular calcaneus fractures with soft tissue damage.

PubMed

Besch, Lutz; Schmidt, Ina; Mueller, Michael; Daniels-Wredenhagen, Mark; Hilgert, Ralf-Eric; Varoga, Deike; Seekamp, Andreas

2008-01-01

The purpose of this investigation was to develop an optimized hinged external fixator for the primary treatment of dislocated, intra-articular calcaneus fractures with associated soft tissue damage. To this end, a calcaneus model was made out of a polyurethane block, and a steel cylinder served as the ankle joint and was connected to a synthetic model of the tibia via a metal clamp. A saw cut served as the fracture in the model. A Steinmann nail and Schanz screw were placed in defined positions in the model and connected medially and laterally with longitudinal support rods. The fixator allowed a total of 20 degrees of plantar- and dorsiflexion, with rotation in the virtual axis of the upper ankle joint. Changes in the model fracture were measured during cyclical strain, and at different screw positions in the model tibia and calcaneus. Miniature force sensors located on the longitudinal support rods, and a plantar tension spring, were used to measure pressure and tension. Reproducible values were determined and, with the optimal configuration, shifting within the osteotomy was minimal. In the experimental configuration, optimal tibial screw placement was 70 mm proximal to the rotation axis of the upper ankle joint, and optimal placement of the Steinmann nail was in the posterior surface of the calcaneus. These findings indicated that the hinged fixator allows 20 degrees of ankle movement without alteration of the rotation axis, and suggest that this type of external fixator can be used in all types of calcaneal fracture regardless of the soft tissue damage. ACFAS Level of Clinical Evidence: 5c.

Breast reconstruction in the high risk patient with systemic connective tissue disease: a case series.

PubMed

Chin, K Y; Chalmers, C R; Bryson, A V; Weiler-Mithoff, E M

2013-01-01

The presence of severe underlying connective tissue disease may restrict the reconstructive options offered to a woman in the event of mastectomy. Putative concerns about reconstructive surgery include the effects of connective tissue disease and immunosuppression on wound healing and donor site morbidity, and increased risks of deranged clotting and thrombophilia after free tissue transfer. There is also the possibility of an unpredictable tissue reaction after oncological resection surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy. Here we present a review of the current sparse evidence regarding reconstructive breast surgery in this challenging group of patients. In addition we present a series of six consecutive patients with a spectrum of connective tissue disorders including combinations of longstanding Systemic Lupus Erythematosis (SLE), Rheumatoid arthritis and Raynaud's Disease who underwent successful post-mastectomy reconstruction with an extended autologous latissimus dorsi flap, along with subsequent successful correction of asymmetry and/or nipple reconstruction. There is a paucity of literature on this subject perhaps suggesting that surgeons are reluctant to offer reconstruction or that uptake is poor in this group. Complications related to radiotherapy and free tissue transfer in patients with severe CTD is less than may be expected. The most common complications experienced by our patients with CTD after extended ALD breast reconstruction were persistent donor site seroma, wound dehiscence and delayed haematoma formation, reflecting the abnormal inflammatory response and deranged haemostatic cascade common to connective tissue disease. However, all six patients made a full recovery from surgery without residual donor site morbidity and with an acceptable aesthetic breast reconstruction. Careful peri-operative management is crucial in this group of patients, but good outcomes are possible using a variety of reconstructive techniques. This is the first reported series of patients with severe connective tissue disease who have been managed with extended ALD breast reconstruction. The majority of complications relate to the donor site but the favourable outcomes demonstrate that the extended ALD flap remains a reliable reconstructive option for this group. Copyright © 2012 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The use of mucograft collagen matrix to augment the zone of keratinized tissue around teeth: a pilot study.

PubMed

Nevins, Myron; Nevins, Marc L; Kim, Soo-Woo; Schupbach, Peter; Kim, David M

2011-01-01

This prospective split-mouth pilot case series compared the use of a bilayer collagen matrix (CM) to an autogenous gingival graft (AGG) in the ability to increase the zone of keratinized attached gingiva. Five patients with inadequate amounts of keratinized attached gingiva bilaterally in the posterior mandible were enrolled using a split-mouth design. There were statistically significant increases in attached gingiva at all test (CM) and control (AGG) sites. The CM sites at 12 months blended well with surrounding tissues, while the AGG sites were morphologically dissimilar to the adjacent areas. Biopsy results showed intrapatient histologic similarity between CM and AGG treatments, with all sites exhibiting mature connective tissue covered by keratinized epithelium. Thus, the obtained data support further investigations in evaluating the role of CM as a viable alternative to AGG in augmenting areas deficient in keratinized gingiva.

[Diagnosis and therapy of particle disease in total hip arthroplasty].

PubMed

Müller, M; Wassilew, G; Perka, C

2015-04-01

Particle disease is caused by periarticular accumulation of attrition particles and the inflammatory reaction of the body's tissue. This process may result in osteolysis or soft tissue transformation which presents itself symptomless in the beginning and can proceed to aseptic implant loosening, fracture, implant breaking as a result of the inappropriate osseous support and to algetic and destructive soft tissue reactions as well. Attrition particles originate from tribological pairing, and the extent of the attrition or the particle concentration depend on different factors as there are the tribological pairing's material, the head size, the patient's level of activity, and the implant position. Attrition particles can also be found in the range of any modular connection. Particle disease and its resulting morphological alterations of the tribological pairing is one of the most frequent reasons for re-operation in hip endoprosthetics. Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.

Porphyromonas gingivalis: An Overview of Periodontopathic Pathogen below the Gum Line

PubMed Central

How, Kah Yan; Song, Keang Peng; Chan, Kok Gan

2016-01-01

Periodontal disease represents a group of oral inflammatory infections initiated by oral pathogens which exist as a complex biofilms on the tooth surface and cause destruction to tooth supporting tissues. The severity of this disease ranges from mild and reversible inflammation of the gingiva (gingivitis) to chronic destruction of connective tissues, the formation of periodontal pocket and ultimately result in loss of teeth. While human subgingival plaque harbors more than 500 bacterial species, considerable research has shown that Porphyromonas gingivalis, a Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium, is the major etiologic agent which contributes to chronic periodontitis. This black-pigmented bacterium produces a myriad of virulence factors that cause destruction to periodontal tissues either directly or indirectly by modulating the host inflammatory response. Here, this review provides an overview of P. gingivalis and how its virulence factors contribute to the pathogenesis with other microbiome consortium in oral cavity. PMID:26903954

Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Version 2.2018, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology.

PubMed

von Mehren, Margaret; Randall, R Lor; Benjamin, Robert S; Boles, Sarah; Bui, Marilyn M; Ganjoo, Kristen N; George, Suzanne; Gonzalez, Ricardo J; Heslin, Martin J; Kane, John M; Keedy, Vicki; Kim, Edward; Koon, Henry; Mayerson, Joel; McCarter, Martin; McGarry, Sean V; Meyer, Christian; Morris, Zachary S; O'Donnell, Richard J; Pappo, Alberto S; Paz, I Benjamin; Petersen, Ivy A; Pfeifer, John D; Riedel, Richard F; Ruo, Bernice; Schuetze, Scott; Tap, William D; Wayne, Jeffrey D; Bergman, Mary Anne; Scavone, Jillian L

2018-05-01

Soft tissue sarcomas (STS) are rare solid tumors of mesenchymal cell origin that display a heterogenous mix of clinical and pathologic characteristics. STS can develop from fat, muscle, nerves, blood vessels, and other connective tissues. The evaluation and treatment of patients with STS requires a multidisciplinary team with demonstrated expertise in the management of these tumors. The complete NCCN Guidelines for STS provide recommendations for the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of extremity/superficial trunk/head and neck STS, as well as intra-abdominal/retroperitoneal STS, gastrointestinal stromal tumors, desmoid tumors, and rhabdomyosarcoma. This portion of the NCCN Guidelines discusses general principles for the diagnosis, staging, and treatment of STS of the extremities, superficial trunk, or head and neck; outlines treatment recommendations by disease stage; and reviews the evidence to support the guidelines recommendations. Copyright © 2018 by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network.

The clinical and pathological characteristics of nephropathies in connective tissue diseases in the Japan Renal Biopsy Registry (J-RBR).

PubMed

Ichikawa, Kazunobu; Konta, Tsuneo; Sato, Hiroshi; Ueda, Yoshihiko; Yokoyama, Hitoshi

2017-12-01

In connective tissue diseases, a wide variety of glomerular, tubulointerstitial, and vascular lesions of the kidney are observed. Nonetheless, recent information is limited regarding renal lesions in connective tissue diseases, except in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study, we used a nationwide database of biopsy-confirmed renal diseases in Japan (J-RBR) (UMIN000000618). In total, 20,523 registered patients underwent biopsy between 2007 and 2013; from 110 patients with connective tissue diseases except SLE, we extracted data regarding the clinico-pathological characteristics of the renal biopsy. Our analysis included patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) (n = 52), Sjögren's syndrome (SjS) (n = 35), scleroderma (n = 10), mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD; n = 5), anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS; n = 3), polymyositis/dermatomyositis (PM/DM; n = 1), Behçet's disease (n = 1) and others (n = 3). The clinico-pathological features differed greatly depending on the underlying disease. The major clinical diagnosis was nephrotic syndrome in RA; chronic nephritic syndrome with mild proteinuria and reduced renal function in SjS; rapidly progressive nephritic syndrome in scleroderma. The major pathological diagnosis was membranous nephropathy (MN) and amyloidosis in RA; tubulointerstitial nephritis in SjS; proliferative obliterative vasculopathy in scleroderma; MN in MCTD. In RA, most patients with nephrosis were treated using bucillamine, and showed membranous nephropathy. Using the J-RBR database, our study revealed that biopsy-confirmed cases of connective tissue diseases such as RA, SjS, scleroderma, and MCTD show various clinical and pathological characteristics, depending on the underlying diseases and the medication used.

An extended OpenSim knee model for analysis of strains of connective tissues.

PubMed

Marieswaran, M; Sikidar, Arnab; Goel, Anu; Joshi, Deepak; Kalyanasundaram, Dinesh

2018-04-17

OpenSim musculoskeletal models provide an accurate simulation environment that eases limitations of in vivo and in vitro studies. In this work, a biomechanical knee model was formulated with femoral articular cartilages and menisci along with 25 connective tissue bundles representing ligaments and capsules. The strain patterns of the connective tissues in the presence of femoral articular cartilage and menisci in the OpenSim knee model was probed in a first of its kind study. The effect of knee flexion (0°-120°), knee rotation (- 40° to 30°) and knee adduction (- 15° to 15°) on the anterior cruciate, posterior cruciate, medial collateral, lateral collateral ligaments and other connective tissues were studied by passive simulation. Further, a new parameter for assessment of strain namely, the differential inter-bundle strain of the connective tissues were analyzed to provide new insights for injury kinematics. ACL, PCL, LCL and PL was observed to follow a parabolic strain pattern during flexion while MCL represented linear strain patterns. All connective tissues showed non-symmetric parabolic strain variation during rotation. During adduction, the strain variation was linear for the knee bundles except for FL, PFL and TL. Strains higher than 0.1 were observed in most of the bundles during lateral rotation followed by abduction, medial rotation and adduction. In the case of flexion, highest strains were observed in aACL and aPCL. A combination of strains at a flexion of 0° with medial rotation of 30° or a flexion of 80° with rotation of 30° are evaluated as rupture-prone kinematics.

Selective reactivation of human herpesvirus 6 in patients with autoimmune connective tissue diseases.

PubMed

Broccolo, Francesco; Drago, Francesco; Cassina, Giulia; Fava, Andrea; Fusetti, Lisa; Matteoli, Barbara; Ceccherini-Nelli, Luca; Sabbadini, Maria Grazia; Lusso, Paolo; Parodi, Aurora; Malnati, Mauro S

2013-11-01

Viral infections have been associated with autoimmune connective tissue diseases. To evaluate whether active infection by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), human herpesvirus (HHV)-6, -7, -8, as well as parvovirus B19 (B19V) occur in patients with autoimmune connective tissue diseases, viral DNA loads were assessed in paired samples of serum and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of 115 patients affected by different disorders, including systemic sclerosis, systemic, and discoid lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, and dermatomyositis. Two additional groups, patients affected by inflammatory diseases (n=51) and healthy subjects (n=58) were studied as controls. The titers of anti-HHV-6 and anti-EBV antibodies were also evaluated. Cell-free HHV-6 serum viremia was detected in a significantly higher proportion of connective tissue diseases patients compared to controls (P<0.0002); a significant association between HHV-6 reactivation and the active disease state was found only for lupus erythematosus (P=0.021). By contrast, the rate of cell-free EBV viremia was similar in patients and controls groups. Cell-free CMV, HHV-8, and B19V viremia was not detected in any subject. Anti-HHV-6 and anti-EBV early antigen IgG titers were both significantly higher in autoimmune diseases patients as compared to healthy controls, although they were not associated with the presence of viremia. EBV, HHV-6, -7 prevalence and viral load in PBMCs of patients with connective tissue diseases and controls were similar. These data suggest that HHV-6 may act as a pathogenic factor predisposing patients to the development of autoimmune connective tissue diseases or, conversely, that these disorders may predispose patients to HHV-6 reactivation. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Mechanical model for a collagen fibril pair in extracellular matrix.

PubMed

Chan, Yue; Cox, Grant M; Haverkamp, Richard G; Hill, James M

2009-04-01

In this paper, we model the mechanics of a collagen pair in the connective tissue extracellular matrix that exists in abundance throughout animals, including the human body. This connective tissue comprises repeated units of two main structures, namely collagens as well as axial, parallel and regular anionic glycosaminoglycan between collagens. The collagen fibril can be modeled by Hooke's law whereas anionic glycosaminoglycan behaves more like a rubber-band rod and as such can be better modeled by the worm-like chain model. While both computer simulations and continuum mechanics models have been investigated for the behavior of this connective tissue typically, authors either assume a simple form of the molecular potential energy or entirely ignore the microscopic structure of the connective tissue. Here, we apply basic physical methodologies and simple applied mathematical modeling techniques to describe the collagen pair quantitatively. We found that the growth of fibrils was intimately related to the maximum length of the anionic glycosaminoglycan and the relative displacement of two adjacent fibrils, which in return was closely related to the effectiveness of anionic glycosaminoglycan in transmitting forces between fibrils. These reveal the importance of the anionic glycosaminoglycan in maintaining the structural shape of the connective tissue extracellular matrix and eventually the shape modulus of human tissues. We also found that some macroscopic properties, like the maximum molecular energy and the breaking fraction of the collagen, were also related to the microscopic characteristics of the anionic glycosaminoglycan.

Interdisciplinary approach to enhance the esthetics of maxillary anterior region using soft- and hard-tissue ridge augmentation in conjunction with a fixed partial prosthesis.

PubMed

Khetarpal, Shaleen; Chouksey, Ajay; Bele, Anand; Vishnoi, Rahul

2018-01-01

Favorable esthetics is one of the most important treatment outcomes in dentistry, and to achieve this, interdisciplinary approaches are often required. Ridge deficiencies can be corrected for both, soft- and hard-tissue discrepancies. To overcome such defects, not only a variety of prosthetic options are at our disposal but also several periodontal plastic surgical techniques are available as well. Various techniques have been described and revised, over the year to correct ridge defects. For enhancing soft-tissue contours in the anterior region, the subepithelial connective tissue graft is the treatment of choice. A combination of alloplastic bone graft in adjunct to connective tissue graft optimizes ridge augmentation and minimizes defects. The present case report describes the use of vascular interpositional connective tissue graft in combination with alloplastic bone graft for correction of Seibert's Class III ridge deficiency followed by a fixed partial prosthesis to achieve a better esthetic outcome.

Interdisciplinary approach to enhance the esthetics of maxillary anterior region using soft- and hard-tissue ridge augmentation in conjunction with a fixed partial prosthesis

PubMed Central

Khetarpal, Shaleen; Chouksey, Ajay; Bele, Anand; Vishnoi, Rahul

2018-01-01

Favorable esthetics is one of the most important treatment outcomes in dentistry, and to achieve this, interdisciplinary approaches are often required. Ridge deficiencies can be corrected for both, soft- and hard-tissue discrepancies. To overcome such defects, not only a variety of prosthetic options are at our disposal but also several periodontal plastic surgical techniques are available as well. Various techniques have been described and revised, over the year to correct ridge defects. For enhancing soft-tissue contours in the anterior region, the subepithelial connective tissue graft is the treatment of choice. A combination of alloplastic bone graft in adjunct to connective tissue graft optimizes ridge augmentation and minimizes defects. The present case report describes the use of vascular interpositional connective tissue graft in combination with alloplastic bone graft for correction of Seibert's Class III ridge deficiency followed by a fixed partial prosthesis to achieve a better esthetic outcome. PMID:29568176

Soft Tissue Closure of Grafted Extraction Sockets in the Anterior Maxilla: A Modified Palatal Pedicle Connective Tissue Flap Technique.

PubMed

El Chaar, Edgard; Oshman, Sarah; Cicero, Giuseppe; Castano, Alejandro; Dinoi, Cinzia; Soltani, Leila; Lee, Yoonjung Nicole

Localized ridge resorption, the consequence of socket collapse, following tooth extraction in the anterior maxilla can adversely affect esthetics, function, and future implant placement. Immediate grafting of extraction sockets may help preserve natural ridge contours, but a lack of available soft tissue can compromise the final esthetic outcome. The presented modified rotated palatal pedicle connective tissue flap is a useful technique for simultaneous soft tissue coverage and augmentation of grafted sockets to improve esthetic outcome. This article delineates its advantages through the presentation of a four-case series using this new technique.

[Technical peculiarities of the argon-plasma welding of gastrointestinal walls wounds in experimental environment].

PubMed

Terekhov, G V; Furmanov, Iu A; Gvozdetskiĭ, V S; Savitskaia, I M

2008-06-01

A new method of the live biological tissues connection, using thermal energy of a high-temperature argon plasma, constituting perspective trend of application of a new nonsuture methods of the tissues connection, original for the world practice, was elaborated in the Department of Experimental Surgery together with the Institute of welding named after Academician E. O. Paton NAS of Ukraine. The argon-plasma welding application secure safe adhesion of the connecting surfaces formation due to the protein complexes temperature denaturation occurrence. The absence of foreign bodies in the connection zone as well as the presence of the plasma flow bacterocidal properties secure, while application of this new method, a significant lowering of a bacterial soiling of the formatted anastomoses, not interfering with the tissue natural regeneration process course.

FOXO1 expression in keratinocytes promotes connective tissue healing

PubMed Central

Zhang, Chenying; Lim, Jason; Liu, Jian; Ponugoti, Bhaskar; Alsadun, Sarah; Tian, Chen; Vafa, Rameen; Graves, Dana T.

2017-01-01

Wound healing is complex and highly orchestrated. It is well appreciated that leukocytes, particularly macrophages, are essential for inducing the formation of new connective tissue, which requires the generation of signals that stimulate mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), myofibroblasts and fibroblasts. A key role for keratinocytes in this complex process has yet to be established. To this end, we investigated possible involvement of keratinocytes in connective tissue healing. By lineage-specific deletion of the forkhead box-O 1 (FOXO1) transcription factor, we demonstrate for the first time that keratinocytes regulate proliferation of fibroblasts and MSCs, formation of myofibroblasts and production of collagen matrix in wound healing. This stimulation is mediated by a FOXO1 induced TGFβ1/CTGF axis. The results provide direct evidence that epithelial cells play a key role in stimulating connective tissue healing through a FOXO1-dependent mechanism. Thus, FOXO1 and keratinocytes may be an important therapeutic target where healing is deficient or compromised by a fibrotic outcome. PMID:28220813

Publications of the space physiology and countermeasures program, Musculoskeletal Discipline: 1980-1990

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hess, Elizabeth L.; Wallace-Robinson, Janice; Dickson, Katherine J.; Powers, Janet V.

1992-01-01

A 10-year cumulative bibliography of publications resulting from research supported by the musculoskeletal discipline of the space physiology and countermeasures program of NASA's Life Sciences Division is provided. Primary subjects are bone, mineral, and connective tissue, and muscle. General physiology references are also included. Principal investigators whose research tasks resulted in publication are identified by asterisk. Publications are identified by a record number corresponding with their entry in the life sciences bibliographic database, maintained by the George Washington University.

Platform switching: biomechanical evaluation using three-dimensional finite element analysis.

PubMed

Tabata, Lucas Fernando; Rocha, Eduardo Passos; Barão, Valentim Adelino Ricardo; Assunção, Wirley Goncalves

2011-01-01

The objective of this study was to evaluate, using three-dimensional finite element analysis (3D FEA), the stress distribution in peri-implant bone tissue, implants, and prosthetic components of implant-supported single crowns with the use of the platform-switching concept. Three 3D finite element models were created to replicate an external-hexagonal implant system with peri-implant bone tissue in which three different implant-abutment configurations were represented. In the regular platform (RP) group, a regular 4.1-mm-diameter abutment (UCLA) was connected to regular 4.1-mm-diameter implant. The platform-switching (PS) group was simulated by the connection of a wide implant (5.0 mm diameter) to a regular 4.1-mm-diameter UCLA abutment. In the wide-platform (WP) group, a 5.0-mm-diameter UCLA abutment was connected to a 5.0-mm-diameter implant. An occlusal load of 100 N was applied either axially or obliquely on the models using ANSYS software. Both the increase in implant diameter and the use of platform switching played roles in stress reduction. The PS group presented lower stress values than the RP and WP groups for bone and implant. In the peri-implant area, cortical bone exhibited a higher stress concentration than the trabecular bone in all models and both loading situations. Under oblique loading, higher intensity and greater distribution of stress were observed than under axial loading. Platform switching reduced von Mises (17.5% and 9.3% for axial and oblique loads, respectively), minimum (compressive) (19.4% for axial load and 21.9% for oblique load), and maximum (tensile) principal stress values (46.6% for axial load and 26.7% for oblique load) in the peri-implant bone tissue. Platform switching led to improved biomechanical stress distribution in peri-implant bone tissue. Oblique loads resulted in higher stress concentrations than axial loads for all models. Wide-diameter implants had a large influence in reducing stress values in the implant system.

Detection of EWS/FLI-1 fusion in non-Ewing soft tissue tumors.

PubMed

Trancău, I O; Huică, R; Surcel, M; Munteanu, A; Ursaciuc, C

2015-01-01

EWS/FLI-1 fusion mainly appears in Ewing's sarcoma or the primitive neuroectodermal tumors and represents a genomic marker for these tumors. However, it can appear with lower frequency in other soft tissue tumors. The paper investigates the presence of EWS/FLI-1 fusion in clinically diagnosed sarcoma belonging to different non-Ewing connective tissue tumors in order to search for a possible new biomarker valuable for investigators. 20 patients with soft tissue tumors, who underwent surgery, were tested. Intra-operative samples of normal and tumor tissue were collected for histopathological diagnosis and genetics determinations. The patients' RNA from tumor and normal peritumoral tissue was extracted and EWS/FLI-1 fusion screened by quantitative real-time PCR. The relative expression of the fusion in the tumor sample was compared to the similar expression in normal tissue. The amplification in the threshold zone was shown by 5 samples (25%): 2 clear cell sarcoma, 1 fibrosarcoma, 1 malignant tumor of nerve sheath, 1 metastatic adenocarcinoma. We differentiated between the unspecific amplification and concluded that these are weak positive results. Genomic investigation may establish the tumor malignancy and its possible affiliation earlier than histopathology. It can support the screening of EWS/FLI-1 fusion in a larger variety of clinically diagnosed soft tissue tumors.

Genipin crosslinker releasing sutures for improving the mechanical/repair strength of damaged connective tissue.

PubMed

Sundararaj, Sharath; Slusarewicz, Paul; Brown, Matt; Hedman, Thomas

2017-11-01

The most common mode of surgical repair of ruptured tendons and ligaments involves the use of sutures for reattachment. However, there is a high incidence of rerupture and repair failure due to pulling out of the suture material from the damaged connective tissue. The main goal of this research was to achieve a localized delivery of crosslinking agent genipin (GP) from rapid-release biodegradable coatings on sutures, for strengthening the repair of ruptured connective tissue. Our hypothesis is that GP released from the suture coating will lead to exogenous crosslinking of native connective tissue resulting in beneficial effects on clinically relevant mechanical parameters such as tear resistance, tissue strength, and energy required to rupture the tissue (toughness). Sutures were successfully coated with a biodegradable polymer layer loaded with the crosslinking agent genipin, without compromising the mechanical properties of the suture. The rapid-release of genipin was achieved under both in vitro and ex vivo conditions. Exogenous crosslinking using these genipin releasing sutures was demonstrated using equine tendons. The tendons treated with genipin releasing sutures showed significant improvement in failure load, energy required for pull-out failure, and stiffness. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 105B: 2199-2205, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The Decay of Stem Cell Nourishment at the Niche

PubMed Central

de Mora, Jaime Font

2013-01-01

Abstract One of the main features of human aging is the loss of adult stem cell homeostasis. Organs that are very dependent on adult stem cells show increased susceptibility to aging, particularly organs that present a vascular stem cell niche. Reduced regenerative capacity in tissues correlates with reduced stem cell function, which parallels a loss of microvascular density (rarefraction) and plasticity. Moreover, the age-related loss of microvascular plasticity and rarefaction has significance beyond metabolic support for tissues because stem cell niches are regulated co-ordinately with the vascular cells. In addition, microvascular rarefaction is related to increased inflammatory signals that may negatively regulate the stem cell population. Thus, the processes of microvascular rarefaction, adult stem cell dysfunction, and inflammation underlie the cycle of physiological decline that we call aging. Observations from new mouse models and humans are discussed here to support the vascular aging theory. We develop a novel theory to explain the complexity of aging in mammals and perhaps in other organisms. The connection between vascular endothelial tissue and organismal aging provides a potential evolutionary conserved mechanism that is an ideal target for the development of therapies to prevent or delay age-related processes in humans. PMID:23937078

[Imaging of alloplastic ligament implant. An in vivo and in vitro study exemplified by Kevlar].

PubMed

Wening, J V; Katzer, A; Nicolas, V; Hahn, M; Jungbluth, K H; Kratzer A [corrected to Katzer, A

1994-04-01

Neither native X-ray nor CT or NMR allow to evaluate intraarticular implantation results of Kevlar -49 directly. In animal trials, the course of an artificial ligament may only be presumed from connective tissue ingrowth. Although soft tissue structure appears much better in NMR than in CT, direct proof of ligament continuity is still impossible. As soon as the connective tissue becomes continuous, it appears clearly and allows indirect evaluation of the prosthesis, as integrity can be judged by its shape like in natural cruciate ligament. Anatomic preparations show that connective tissue fills up the small space between the two cords of a Kevlar -49 two bundle prosthesis eight weeks after implantation, so that imaging systems show only one intraarticular bundle.

Histopathology of lung disease in the connective tissue diseases.

PubMed

Vivero, Marina; Padera, Robert F

2015-05-01

The pathologic correlates of interstitial lung disease (ILD) secondary to connective tissue disease (CTD) comprise a diverse group of histologic patterns. Lung biopsies in patients with CTD-associated ILD tend to demonstrate simultaneous involvement of multiple anatomic compartments of the lung. Certain histologic patterns tend to predominate in each defined CTD, and it is possible in many cases to confirm connective tissue-associated lung disease and guide patient management using surgical lung biopsy. This article will cover the pulmonary pathologies seen in rheumatoid arthritis, systemic sclerosis, myositis, systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjögren syndrome, and mixed CTD. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Muscular force transmission: a unified, dual or multiple system? A review and some explorative experimental results.

PubMed

Huijing, P

1999-10-01

Structures contributing to force transmission in muscle are reviewed combining some historical and relatively recently published experimental data. Also, effects of aponeurotomy and tenotomy are reviewed shortly as well as some new experimental results regarding these interventions that reinforce the concept of myofascial force transmission. The review is also illustrated by some new images of single muscle fibres from Xenopus Laevis indicative of such transmission and some data about locations of insertion of human gluteus maximus muscle. From this review and the new material, emerges a line of thought indicating that mechanical connections between muscle fibres and intramuscular connective tissue play an important role in force transmission. New experimental observations are presented for non-spanning muscle (i.c., rat biceps femoris muscle), regarding the great variety of types of intramuscular connections that exist i n addition to myo-tendinous junctions at the perimuscular ends of muscle fibres. Such connections are classified as (1) tapered end connections, (2) Myo-myonal junctions, (3) myo-epimysial junctions and (3) Myo-endomysial junctions. This line of thought is followed up by consideration of a possible role of connections of intra- and extramuscular connective tissue in force transmission out of the muscle. Experimental results of an explorative nature, regarding the interactions of extensor digitorum longus (EDL), tibialis anterior (TA) and hallucis longus (HAL) muscles within a relatively intact dorsal flexor compartment of the rat hind leg, indicate that: (1) length force properties of EDL are influenced by TA activity in a length dependent fashion. Depending on TA length, force exerted by EDL, kept at constant origin insertion distance, is variable and the effect is influenced by EDL length itself as well; (2) Force is transmitted from muscle to extramuscular connective tissue and vice versa. As a consequence force exerted at proximal and distal tendons of a muscle are not always equal. The difference being transmitted by extramuscular connective tissue and may appear at the tendons of other muscles or may be transmitted via connective tissue directly to bone. It is concluded that the system of force transmission from skeletal muscle should be considered as a multiple system.

Four-year follow-up of a polymethyl methacrylate-based bone cement graft for optimizing esthetics in maxillary anterior implants: a case report.

PubMed

Torres, Érica Miranda De; Naldi, Luis Fernando; Bernades, Karina Oliveira; Carvalho, Alexandre Leite

2017-01-01

Tooth loss promotes bone and gingival tissue remodeling, thus breaking the harmony between the residual ridge and natural teeth. This is critical in the anterior region of the mouth, and the integration of several dental specialties is often essential to successful rehabilitation with implants. This article describes a multidisciplinary approach to implant-supported oral rehabilitation in the maxillary anterior region, presenting a new technique for optimizing esthetics in implants. A 19-year-old woman was missing her central and lateral incisors and had 2 dental implants in the lateral incisor sites. The patient exhibited deficient thickness of the alveolar edge, loss of lip support, and absence of gingival architecture, and the implants were improperly placed. A multidisciplinary team created a correct emergence profile through a polymethyl methacrylate-based bone cement graft along with connective tissue grafts. This technique may be a useful therapeutic adjunct in dental implantology, showing good predictability and regular healing procedures.

Connective tissue grafts for thickening peri-implant tissues at implant placement. One-year results from an explanatory split-mouth randomised controlled clinical trial.

PubMed

Wiesner, Günter; Esposito, Marco; Worthington, Helen; Schlee, Markus

2010-01-01

Nothing to declare. To evaluate whether connective tissue grafts performed at implant placement could be effective in augmenting peri-implant soft tissues. Ten partially edentulous patients requiring at least one single implant in the premolar or molar areas of both sides of the mandible were randomised to have one side augmented at implant placement with a connective soft tissue graft harvested from the palate or no augmentation. After 3 months of submerged healing, abutments were placed and within 1 month definitive crowns were permanently cemented. Outcome measures were implant success, any complications, peri-implant marginal bone level changes, patient satisfaction and preference, thickness of the soft tissues and aesthetics (pink aesthetic score) evaluated by an independent and blinded assessor 1 year after loading. One year after loading, no patients dropped out, no implants failed and no complications occurred. Both groups lost statistically significant amounts of peri-implant bone 1 year after loading (0.8 mm in the grafted group and 0.6 mm in the non-grafted group), but there was no statistically significant difference between groups. Soft tissues at augmented sites were 1.3 mm thicker (P < 0.001) and had a significantly better pink aesthetic score (P < 0.001). Patients were highly satisfied (no statistically significant differences between treatments) though they preferred the aesthetics of the augmented sites (P = 0.031). However, five patients would not undergo the grafting procedure again and two were uncertain. Connective tissue grafts are effective in increasing soft tissue thickness, thus improving aesthetics. Longer follow-ups are needed to evaluate the stability of peri-implant tissues over time.

Microstructure alterations in beef intramuscular connective tissue caused by hydrodynamic pressure processing

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was utilized to evaluate microstructural changes in intramuscular connective tissue of beef semimembranosus muscle subjected to hydrodynamic pressure processing (HDP). Samples were HDP treated in a plastic container (HDP-PC) or a steel commercial unit (HDP-CU). C...

Dense Breasts

MedlinePlus

... fatty tissue. On a mammogram, fatty tissue appears dark (radio-lucent) and the glandular and connective tissues ... white on mammography) and non-dense fatty tissue (dark on mammography) using a visual scale and assign ...

Optical Histology: High-Resolution Visualization of Tissue Microvasculature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moy, Austin Jing-Ming

Mammalian tissue requires the delivery of nutrients, growth factors, and the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide gases to maintain normal function. These elements are delivered by the blood, which travels through the connected network of blood vessels, known as the vascular system. The vascular system consists of large feeder blood vessels (arteries and veins) that are connected to the small blood vessels (arterioles and venules), which in turn are connected to the capillaries that are directly connected to the tissue and facilitate gas exchange and nutrient delivery. These small blood vessels and capillaries make up an intricate but organized network of blood vessels that exist in all mammalian tissues known as the microvasculature and are very important in maintaining the health and proper function of mammalian tissue. Due to the importance of the microvasculature in tissue survival, disruption of the microvasculature typically leads to tissue dysfunction and tissue death. The most prevalent method to study the microvasculature is visualization. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is the gold-standard method to visualize tissue microvasculature. IHC is very well-suited for highly detailed interrogation of the tissue microvasculature at the cellular level but is unwieldy and impractical for wide-field visualization of the tissue microvasculature. The objective my dissertation research was to develop a method to enable wide-field visualization of the microvasculature, while still retaining the high-resolution afforded by optical microscopy. My efforts led to the development of a technique dubbed "optical histology" that combines chemical and optical methods to enable high-resolution visualization of the microvasculature. The development of the technique first involved preliminary studies to quantify optical property changes in optically cleared tissues, followed by development and demonstration of the methodology. Using optical histology, I successfully obtained high resolution, depth sectioned images of the microvasculature in mouse brain and the coronary microvasculature in mouse heart. Future directions of optical histology include the potential to facilitate visualization of the entire microvascular structure of an organ as well as visualization of other tissue molecular markers of interest.

Elastin Cables Define the Axial Connective Tissue System in the Murine Lung.

PubMed

Wagner, Willi; Bennett, Robert D; Ackermann, Maximilian; Ysasi, Alexandra B; Belle, Janeil; Valenzuela, Cristian D; Pabst, Andreas; Tsuda, Akira; Konerding, Moritz A; Mentzer, Steven J

2015-11-01

The axial connective tissue system is a fiber continuum of the lung that maintains alveolar surface area during changes in lung volume. Although the molecular anatomy of the axial system remains undefined, the fiber continuum of the lung is central to contemporary models of lung micromechanics and alveolar regeneration. To provide a detailed molecular structure of the axial connective tissue system, we examined the extracellular matrix of murine lungs. The lungs were decellularized using a 24 hr detergent treatment protocol. Systematic evaluation of the decellularized lungs demonstrated no residual cellular debris; morphometry demonstrated a mean 39 ± 7% reduction in lung dimensions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) demonstrated an intact structural hierarchy within the decellularized lung. Light, fluorescence, and SEM of precision-cut lung slices demonstrated that alveolar duct structure was defined by a cable line element encased in basement membrane. The cable line element arose in the distal airways, passed through septal tips and inserted into neighboring blood vessels and visceral pleura. The ropelike appearance, collagenase resistance and anti-elastin immunostaining indicated that the cable was an elastin macromolecule. Our results indicate that the helical line element of the axial connective tissue system is composed of an elastin cable that not only defines the structure of the alveolar duct, but also integrates the axial connective tissue system into visceral pleura and peripheral blood vessels. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lamina Cribrosa Microarchitecture in Normal Monkey Eyes Part 1: Methods and Initial Results

PubMed Central

Lockwood, Howard; Reynaud, Juan; Gardiner, Stuart; Grimm, Jonathan; Libertiaux, Vincent; Downs, J. Crawford; Yang, Hongli; Burgoyne, Claude F.

2015-01-01

Purpose. To introduce quantitative postmortem lamina cribrosa (LC) microarchitecture (LMA) assessment and characterize beam diameter (BD), pore diameter (PD), and connective tissue volume fraction (CTVF) in 21 normal monkey eyes. Methods. Optic nerve heads (ONHs) underwent digital three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and LC beam segmentation. Each beam and pore voxel was assigned a diameter based on the largest sphere that contained it before transformation to one of twelve 30° sectors in a common cylinder. Mean BD, PD, and CTVF within 12 central and 12 peripheral subsectors and within inner, middle, and outer LC depths were assessed for sector, subsector, and depth effects by analysis of variance using general estimating equations. Eye-specific LMA discordance (the pattern of lowest connective tissue density) was plotted for each parameter. Results. The ranges of mean BD, PD, and CTVF were 14.0 to 23.1 μm, 20.0 to 35.6 μm, and 0.247 to 0.638, respectively. Sector, subsector, and depth effects were significant (P < 0.01) for all parameters except subsector on CTVF. Beam diameter and CTVF were smaller and PD was larger within the superior-temporal (ST) and inferior-temporal (IT) sectors (P < 0.05). These differences were enhanced within the central versus peripheral subsectors. Beam diameter and CTVF were larger and PD was smaller (P < 0.05) within the middle LC layer. Lamina cribrosa microarchitecture discordance most commonly occurred within the ST and IT sectors, varied by eye, and generally diminished as CTVF increased. Conclusions. Our data support previous characterizations of diminished connective tissue density within the ST and IT ONH regions. The clinical importance of eye-specific LMA discordance warrants further study. PMID:25650423

[Evaluation of Cepan Cream after 15 years of treatment of burn scars].

PubMed

Stozkowska, Wiesława

2002-01-01

Cepan Cream is used for the topical treatment of scars and keloids resulting from burns, post-operative scars, and contractures. Cepan Cream makes scars more elastic, softer and paler. Plant extracts, heparin and allantoin in Cepan act on the biochemical processes in the developing connective tissue, preventing the formation of hyperplastic scars. These active ingredients enhance swelling, softening and loosening of connective tissue. It exerts softening and smoothing action on indurated and hyperplastic scar tissue, improving collagen structure. It promotes tissue regeneration and reduces exuberant granulation. Cepan is well tolerated.

Clinical Evaluation of Papilla Reconstruction Using Subepithelial Connective Tissue Graft

PubMed Central

Kaushik, Alka; PK, Pal; Chopra, Deepak; Chaurasia, Vishwajit Rampratap; Masamatti, Vinaykumar S; DK, Suresh; Babaji, Prashant

2014-01-01

Objective: The aesthetics of the patient can be improved by surgical reconstruction of interdental papilla by using an advanced papillary flap interposed with subepithelial connective tissue graft. Materials and Methods: A total of fifteen sites from ten patients having black triangles/papilla recession in the maxillary anterior region were selected and subjected to presurgical evaluation. The sites were treated with interposed subepithelial connective tissue graft placed under a coronally advance flap. The integrity of the papilla was maintained by moving the whole of gingivopapillary unit coronally. The various parameters were analysed at different intervals. Results: There was a mean decrease in the papilla presence index score and distance from contact point to gingival margin, but it was statistically not significant. Also, there is increase in the width of the keratinized gingiva which was statistically highly significant. Conclusion: Advanced papillary flap with interposed sub–epithelial connective tissue graft can offer predictable results for the reconstruction of interdental papilla. If papilla loss occurs solely due to soft-tissue damage, reconstructive techniques can completely restore it; but if due to periodontal disease involving bone loss, reconstruction is generally incomplete and multiple surgical procedures may be required. PMID:25386529

[Systemic lupus erythematosus and pregnancy].

PubMed

Basheva, S; Nikolov, A; Stoilov, R; Stoilov, N

2012-01-01

Connective-tissue disorders, also referred to as collagen-vascular disorders, are characterized by autoantibody-mediated connective-tissue abnormalities. These are also called immune-complex diseases because many involve deposition of immune complexes in specific organ or tissue sites. Some of these disorders are characterized by sterile inflammation, especially of the skin, joints, blood vessels, and kidneys, and are referred to as rheumatic diseases. For inexplicable reasons, many rheumatic diseases primarily affect women. Another major category of connective-tissue diseases includes inherited disorders of bone, skin, cartilage, blood vessels. Examples include Marfan syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta, and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Lupus erythematosus (LE) is the main and most important disease in the group of systemic connective tissue diseases. It is heterogeneous, multiple organs autoimmune inflammatory disease with complex pathogenesis, which is the result of interaction between the susceptible genes and environmental factors that lead to abnormal immune response. In this review will consider: its incidence, pathogenesis, clinical forms and clinical features and diagnosis set based on generally accepted clinical criteria developed by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), the course of pregnancy in patients suffering from LE, the most common complications of LE during pregnancy and antiphospholipid syndrome as part of LE.

Smooth Muscle-Mediated Connective Tissue Remodeling in Pulmonary Hypertension

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mecham, Robert P.; Whitehouse, Loren A.; Wrenn, David S.; Parks, William C.; Griffin, Gail L.; Senior, Robert M.; Crouch, Edmond C.; Stenmark, Kurt R.; Voelkel, Norbert F.

1987-07-01

Abnormal accumulation of connective tissue in blood vessels contributes to alterations in vascular physiology associated with disease states such as hypertension and atherosclerosis. Elastin synthesis was studied in blood vessels from newborn calves with severe pulmonary hypertension induced by alveolar hypoxia in order to investigate the cellular stimuli that elicit changes in pulmonary arterial connective tissue production. A two- to fourfold increase in elastin production was observed in pulmonary artery tissue and medial smooth muscle cells from hypertensive calves. This stimulation of elastin production was accompanied by a corresponding increase in elastin messenger RNA consistent with regulation at the transcriptional level. Conditioned serum harvested from cultures of pulmonary artery smooth muscle cells isolated from hypertensive animals contained one or more low molecular weight elastogenic factors that stimulated the production of elastin in both fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells and altered the chemotactic responsiveness of fibroblasts to elastin peptides. These results suggest that connective tissue changes in the pulmonary vasculature in response to pulmonary hypertension are orchestrated by the medial smooth muscle cell through the generation of specific differentiation factors that alter both the secretory phenotype and responsive properties of surrounding cells.

Co-expression networks reveal the tissue-specific regulation of transcription and splicing

PubMed Central

Saha, Ashis; Kim, Yungil; Gewirtz, Ariel D.H.; Jo, Brian; Gao, Chuan; McDowell, Ian C.; Engelhardt, Barbara E.

2017-01-01

Gene co-expression networks capture biologically important patterns in gene expression data, enabling functional analyses of genes, discovery of biomarkers, and interpretation of genetic variants. Most network analyses to date have been limited to assessing correlation between total gene expression levels in a single tissue or small sets of tissues. Here, we built networks that additionally capture the regulation of relative isoform abundance and splicing, along with tissue-specific connections unique to each of a diverse set of tissues. We used the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project v6 RNA sequencing data across 50 tissues and 449 individuals. First, we developed a framework called Transcriptome-Wide Networks (TWNs) for combining total expression and relative isoform levels into a single sparse network, capturing the interplay between the regulation of splicing and transcription. We built TWNs for 16 tissues and found that hubs in these networks were strongly enriched for splicing and RNA binding genes, demonstrating their utility in unraveling regulation of splicing in the human transcriptome. Next, we used a Bayesian biclustering model that identifies network edges unique to a single tissue to reconstruct Tissue-Specific Networks (TSNs) for 26 distinct tissues and 10 groups of related tissues. Finally, we found genetic variants associated with pairs of adjacent nodes in our networks, supporting the estimated network structures and identifying 20 genetic variants with distant regulatory impact on transcription and splicing. Our networks provide an improved understanding of the complex relationships of the human transcriptome across tissues. PMID:29021288

Composition, Architecture, and Functional Implications of the Connective Tissue Network of the Extraocular Muscles

PubMed Central

McLoon, Linda K.; Vicente, André; Fitzpatrick, Krysta R.; Lindström, Mona

2018-01-01

Purpose We examined the pattern and extent of connective tissue distribution in the extraocular muscles (EOMs) and determined the ability of the interconnected connective tissues to disseminate force laterally. Methods Human EOMs were examined for collagens I, III, IV, and VI; fibronectin; laminin; and elastin using immunohistochemistry. Connective tissue distribution was examined with scanning electron microscopy. Rabbit EOMs were examined for levels of force transmission longitudinally and transversely using in vitro force assessment. Results Collagens I, III, and VI localized to the endomysium, perimysium, and epimysium. Collagen IV, fibronectin, and laminin localized to the basal lamina surrounding all myofibers. All collagens localized similarly in the orbital and global layers throughout the muscle length. Elastin had the most irregular pattern and ran longitudinally and circumferentially throughout the length of all EOMs. Scanning electron microscopy showed these elements to be extensively interconnected, from endomysium through the perimysium to the epimysium surrounding the whole muscle. In vitro physiology demonstrated force generation in the lateral dimension, presumably through myofascial transmission, which was always proportional to the force generated in the longitudinally oriented muscles. Conclusions A striking connective tissue matrix interconnects all the myofibers and extends, via perimysial connections, to the epimysium. These interconnections are significant and allow measurable force transmission laterally as well as longitudinally, suggesting that they may contribute to the nonlinear force summation seen in motor unit recording studies. This provides strong evidence that separate compartmental movements are unlikely as no region is independent of the rest of the muscle. PMID:29346490

Gelatinized Copper–Capillary Alginate Gel Functions as an Injectable Tissue Scaffolding System for Stem Cell Transplants

PubMed Central

Willenberg, Bradley Jay; Zheng, Tong; Meng, Fan-Wei; Meneses, Juan Carlos; Rossignol, Candace; Batich, Christopher D.; Terada, Naohiro; Steindler, Dennis A.; Weiss, Michael D.

2013-01-01

In severe hypoxic–ischemic brain injury, cellular components such as neurons and astrocytes are injured or destroyed along with the supporting extracellular matrix. This presents a challenge to the field of regenerative medicine since the lack of extracellular matrix and supporting structures makes the transplant milieu inhospitable to the transplanted cells. A potential solution to this problem is the use of a biomaterial to provide the extracellular components needed to keep cells localized in cystic brain regions, allowing the cells to form connections and repair lost brain tissue. Ideally, this biomaterial would be combined with stem cells, which have been proven to have therapeutic potentials, and could be delivered via an injection. To study this approach, we derived a hydrogel biomaterial tissue scaffold from oligomeric gelatin and copper–capillary alginate gel (GCCAG). We then demonstrated that our multipotent astrocytic stem cells (MASCs) could be maintained in GCCAG scaffolds for up to 2 weeks in vitro and that the cells retained their multipotency. We next performed a pilot transplant study in which GCCAG was mixed with MASCs and injected into the brain of a neonatal rat pup. After a week in vivo, our results showed that: the GCCAG biomaterial did not cause a significant reactive gliosis; viable cells were retained within the injected scaffolds; and some delivered cells migrated into the surrounding brain tissue. Therefore, GCCAG tissue scaffolds are a promising, novel injectable system for transplantation of stem cells to the brain. PMID:20699061

Neurological Assessment and Nerve Conduction Study Findings in 22 Patients with Alkaptonuria from Jordan

PubMed Central

Alrawashdeh, Omar; Alsbou, Mohammad; Alzoubi, Hamed; Al-shagahin, Hani

2017-01-01

Alkaptonuria is a rare metabolic disease characterised by accumulative deposition of homogentisic acid in the connective tissue of the body. This results in early degeneration of tendons, cartilages, heart valves, and other tissues. The main objective of the study is to examine the possibility of the nervous system involvement in patients with alkaptonuria The sample consists of two groups; 22 patients with AKU and 20 controls. A neurological assessment has been carried out including detailed medical history, neurological examination, and a nerve conduction study of the nerves of the dominant hand. The prevalence of any abnormality was compared between the two groups using chi square test. The mean values of the nerve conduction study were compared between the two groups using student t-test. There was a higher prevalence of low back pain, hearing problems and tinnitus, numbness and neuropathic pain in alkaptonuria patients. There was no significant difference between the two groups in other conditions such as seizures, headache, and syncope. The values of the nerve conduction study did not show significant difference between the two groups. Neurologically related symptoms in alkaptonuria mostly represent complications of the connective tissue degeneration rather than direct involvement of the nervous system. This has been supported further by the normal findings of the neurophysiology study in patients with alkaptonuria. PMID:28217270

Tissue alignment enhances remodeling potential of tendon-derived cells - Lessons from a novel microtissue model of tendon scarring.

PubMed

Foolen, Jasper; Wunderli, Stefania L; Loerakker, Sandra; Snedeker, Jess G

2018-01-01

Tendinopathy is a widespread and unresolved clinical challenge, in which associated pain and hampered mobility present a major cause for work-related disability. Tendinopathy associates with a change from a healthy tissue with aligned extracellular matrix (ECM) and highly polarized cells that are connected head-to-tail, towards a diseased tissue with a disorganized ECM and randomly distributed cells, scar-like features that are commonly attributed to poor innate regenerative capacity of the tissue. A fundamental clinical dilemma with this scarring process is whether treatment strategies should focus on healing the affected (disorganized) tissue or strengthen the remaining healthy (anisotropic) tissue. The question was thus asked whether the intrinsic remodeling capacity of tendon-derived cells depends on the organization of the 3D extracellular matrix (isotropic vs anisotropic). Progress in this field is hampered by the lack of suitable in vitro tissue platforms. We aimed at filling this critical gap by creating and exploiting a next generation tissue platform that mimics aspects of the tendon scarring process; cellular response to a gradient in tissue organization from isotropic (scarred/non-aligned) to highly anisotropic (unscarred/aligned) was studied, as was a transient change from isotropic towards highly anisotropic. Strikingly, cells residing in an 'unscarred' anisotropic tissue indicated superior remodeling capacity (increased gene expression levels of collagen, matrix metalloproteinases MMPs, tissue inhibitors of MMPs), when compared to their 'scarred' isotropic counterparts. A numerical model then supported the hypothesis that cellular remodeling capacity may correlate to cellular alignment strength. This in turn may have improved cellular communication, and could thus relate to the more pronounced connexin43 gap junctions observed in anisotropic tissues. In conclusion, increased tissue anisotropy was observed to enhance the cellular potential for functional remodeling of the matrix. This may explain the poor regenerative capacity of tenocytes in chronic tendinopathy, where the pathological process has resulted in ECM disorganization. Additionally, it lends support to treatment strategies that focus on strengthening the remaining healthy tissue, rather than regenerating scarred tissue. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Clinical and biometrical evaluation of socket preservation using demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft with and without the palatal connective tissue as a biologic membrane.

PubMed

Moghaddas, Hamid; Amjadi, Mohammad Reza; Naghsh, Narges

2012-11-01

Alveolar ridge preservation following tooth extraction has the ability to maintain the ridge dimensions and allow the implant placement in an ideal position fulfilling both functional and aesthetic results. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the palatal connective tissue as a biological membrane for socket preservation with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft (DFDBA). Twelve extraction sites were treated with DFDBA with (case group) and without (control group) using autogenous palatal connective tissue membrane before placement of implants. Alveolar width and height, amount of keratinized tissue, and gingival level were measured at pre-determined points using a surgical stent at two times, the time of socket preservation surgery. In both groups a decrease in all socket dimensions was found. The average decrease in socket width, height, keratinized tissue, and gingival level in case group was 1.16, 0.72, 3.58, and 1.27 mm, and in control group was 2.08, 0.86, 4.52, and 1.58 mm respectively. Statistical analysis showed that decrease in socket width (P = 0.012), keratinized tissue (P ≤ 0.001), and gingival level (P = 0.031) in case group was significantly lower than that of the control group. Results showed no meaningful difference in socket height changes when compared with case and control groups (P = 0.148). Under the limits of this study, connective tissue membrane could preserve socket width, amount of keratinized tissue, and the gingival level more effectively than DFDBA alone.

A Digital Staining Algorithm for Optical Coherence Tomography Images of the Optic Nerve Head

PubMed Central

Mari, Jean-Martial; Aung, Tin; Cheng, Ching-Yu; Strouthidis, Nicholas G.; Girard, Michaël J. A.

2017-01-01

Purpose To digitally stain spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) images of the optic nerve head (ONH), and highlight either connective or neural tissues. Methods OCT volumes of the ONH were acquired from one eye of 10 healthy subjects. We processed all volumes with adaptive compensation to remove shadows and enhance deep tissue visibility. For each ONH, we identified the four most dissimilar pixel-intensity histograms, each of which was assumed to represent a tissue group. These four histograms formed a vector basis on which we ‘projected' each OCT volume in order to generate four digitally stained volumes P1 to P4. Digital staining was also verified using a digital phantom, and compared with k-means clustering for three and four clusters. Results Digital staining was able to isolate three regions of interest from the proposed phantom. For the ONH, the digitally stained images P1 highlighted mostly connective tissues, as demonstrated through an excellent contrast increase across the anterior lamina cribrosa boundary (3.6 ± 0.6 times). P2 highlighted the nerve fiber layer and the prelamina, P3 the remaining layers of the retina, and P4 the image background. Further, digital staining was able to separate ONH tissue layers that were not well separated by k-means clustering. Conclusion We have described an algorithm that can digitally stain connective and neural tissues in OCT images of the ONH. Translational Relevance Because connective and neural tissues are considerably altered in glaucoma, digital staining of the ONH tissues may be of interest in the clinical management of this pathology. PMID:28174676

Zebrafish collagen XII is present in embryonic connective tissue sheaths (fascia) and basement membranes.

PubMed

Bader, Hannah L; Keene, Douglas R; Charvet, Benjamin; Veit, Guido; Driever, Wolfgang; Koch, Manuel; Ruggiero, Florence

2009-01-01

Connective tissues ensure the cohesion of the tissues of the body, but also form specialized structures such as tendon and bone. Collagen XII may enhance the stability of connective tissues by bridging collagen fibrils, but its function is still unclear. Here, we used the zebrafish model to visualize its expression pattern in the whole organism. The zebrafish col12a1 gene is homologous to the small isoform of the tetrapod col12a1 gene. In agreement with the biochemical data reported for the small isoform, the zebrafish collagen XII alpha1 chain was characterized as a collagenase sensitive band migrating at approximately 200 kDa. Using newly generated polyclonal antibodies and anti-sense probes, we performed a comprehensive analysis of its expression in developing zebrafish. Collagen XII exhibited a much broader expression pattern than previously thought: it was ubiquitously expressed in the connective tissue sheaths (fascia) that encase the tissues and organs of the body. For example, it was found in sclera, meninges, epimysia and horizontal and vertical myosepta. Collagen XII was also detected in head mesenchyme, pharyngeal arches and within the spinal cord, where it was first expressed within and then at the lateral borders of the floor plate and at the dorsal midline. Furthermore, double immunofluorescence staining with laminin and immunogold electron microscopy revealed that collagen XII is associated with basement membranes. These data suggest that collagen XII is implicated in tissue cohesion by stabilizing fascia and by linking fascia to basement membranes.

Prevaccination with SRL172 (heat-killed Mycobacterium vaccae) inhibits experimental periodontal disease in Wistar rats

PubMed Central

Breivik, T; Rook, G A W

2000-01-01

Periodontal disease is a bacterial dental plaque-induced destructive inflammatory condition of the tooth-supporting tissues, which is thought to be mediated by T lymphocytes secreting T helper 2 (Th2) cytokines, resulting in recruitment of high numbers of antibody-producing B lymphocytes/plasma cells as well as polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMN) secreting tissue-destructive components, such at matrix metalloproteinases and reactive oxygen metabolites into the gingival connective tissues. One treatment strategy may be to down-regulate the Th2 response to those dental plaque microorganisms which induce the destructive inflammatory response. In this study we have examined the effects of a potent down-regulator of Th2 responses on ligature-induced periodontal disease in an experimental rat model. A single s.c. injection into Wistar rats of 0·1 or 1 mg of SRL172, a preparation of heat-killed Mycobacterium vaccae (NCTC 11659), 13 days before application of the ligature, significantly reduced the subsequent destruction of the tooth-supporting tissues, as measured by loss of periodontal attachment fibres (P < 0·001) and bone (P < 0·002). This protective effect occurred not only on the experimental (ligatured) side but also on the control unligatured side. SRL172 has undergone extensive toxicological studies and safety assessments in humans, and it is suggested that it may provide a safe and novel therapeutic approach to periodontal disease. PMID:10844524

Functional Multichannel Poly(Propylene Fumarate)-Collagen Scaffold with Collagen-Binding Neurotrophic Factor 3 Promotes Neural Regeneration After Transected Spinal Cord Injury.

PubMed

Chen, Xi; Zhao, Yannan; Li, Xing; Xiao, Zhifeng; Yao, Yuanjiang; Chu, Yun; Farkas, Balázs; Romano, Ilaria; Brandi, Fernando; Dai, Jianwu

2018-06-19

Many factors contribute to the poor axonal regrowth and ineffective functional recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI). Biomaterials have been used for SCI repair by promoting bridge formation and reconnecting the neural tissue at the lesion site. The mechanical properties of biomaterials are critical for successful design to ensure the stable support as soon as possible when compressed by the surrounding spine and musculature. Poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) scaffolds with high mechanical strength have been shown to provide firm spatial maintenance and to promote repair of tissue defects. A multichannel PPF scaffold is combined with collagen biomaterial to build a novel biocompatible delivery system coated with neurotrophin-3 containing an engineered collagen-binding domain (CBD-NT3). The parallel-aligned multichannel structure of PPF scaffolds guide the direction of neural tissue regeneration across the lesion site and promote reestablishment of bridge connectivity. The combinatorial treatment consisting of PPF and collagen loaded with CBD-NT3 improves the inhibitory microenvironment, facilitates axonal and neuronal regeneration, survival of various types of functional neurons and remyelination and synapse formation of regenerated axons following SCI. This novel treatment strategy for SCI repair effectively promotes neural tissue regeneration after transected spinal injury by providing a regrowth-supportive microenvironment and eventually induces functional improvement. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Non-ablative hyperthermic mesenchymal regeneration: a proposed mechanism of action based on the Vivev model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vos, Jeffrey A.; Livengood, Ryan H.; Jessop, Morris; Coad, James E.

2011-03-01

Novel non-ablative hyperthermic medical devices are currently being developed, in association with cryogen surface cooling, to rejuvenate tissues without collagen scarring. These devices have been designed to remodel skin, manage urinary stress incontinence, and more recently, treat vaginal laxity. In contrast to the thermal injury and reparative healing associated with higher energy ablation systems, these lower energy non-ablative systems are designed to subtly modify the collagen, stimulate the fibroblasts, and maintain a functional tissue architecture that subsequently promotes tissue rejuvenation and restoration. While these devices have primarily relied on clinical outcome questionnaires and satisfaction surveys to establish efficacy, a physiologic explanation for the induced tissue changes and tightening has not been well documented. Recent histology studies, using the Viveve ovine vaginal treatment model, have identified changes that propose both a mechanism of action and a tissue remodeling timeline for such non-ablative hyperthermic devices. The Viveve model results are consistent with subtle connective tissue changes leading to fibroblast stimulation and subsequent collagen replacement and augmentation. Unlike tissue ablation devices that cause thermal necrosis, these non-ablative devices renew the targeted tissue without dense collagenous scarring over a period of 3 or more months. The spectrum of histologic findings, as illustrated in the Viveve ovine vaginal model, further support the previously documented safety and efficacy profiles for low-dose non-ablative hyperthermic devices that rejuvenate and tighten submucosal tissues.

Xenogeneic Collagen Matrix Versus Connective Tissue Graft: Case Series of Various Gingival Recession Treatments.

PubMed

Chevalier, Grégoire; Cherkaoui, Selma; Kruk, Hanna; Bensaïd, Xavier; Danan, Marc

A xenogeneic collagen matrix recently has been suggested as an alternative to connective tissue graft for the treatment of gingival recession. The matrix avoids the second surgical site, and as a consequence could decrease surgical morbidity. This new matrix was used in various clinical situations and compared to connective tissue graft (CTG) in a split-mouth design case series. A total of 17 recessions were treated with a coronally advanced flap, 9 with CTG, and 8 with the matrix. Mean recession reduction was 2.00 mm with the CTG and 2.00 mm with the matrix. No significant statistical differences between the techniques were observed in this case report.

Xenogeneic Collagen Matrix Versus Connective Tissue Graft: Case Series of Various Gingival Recession Treatments.

PubMed

Chevalier, Grégoire; Cherkaoui, Selma; Kruk, Hanna; Bensaïd, Xavier; Danan, Marc

2016-08-24

A xenogeneic collagen matrix recently has been suggested as an alternative to connective tissue graft for the treatment of gingival recession. The matrix avoids the second surgical site, and as a consequence could decrease surgical morbidity. This new matrix was used in various clinical situations and compared to connective tissue graft (CTG) in a split-mouth design case series. A total of 17 recessions were treated with a coronally advanced flap, 9 with CTG, and 8 with the matrix. Mean recession reduction was 2.00 mm with the CTG and 2.00 mm with the matrix. No significant statistical differences between the techniques were observed in this case report.

Systemic sclerosis-scleroderma.

PubMed

Haustein, U-F

2002-06-01

Systemic sclerosis is a clinically heterogeneous, systemic disorder which affects the connective tissue of the skin, internal organs and the walls of blood vessels. It is characterized by alterations of the microvasculature, disturbances of the immune system and by massive deposition of collagen and other matrix substances in the connective tissue. This review discusses epidemiology and survival, clinical features including subsets and internal organ involvement, pathophysiology and genetics, microvasculature, immunobiology, fibroblasts and connective tissue metabolism and environmental factors. Early diagnosis and individually tailored therapy help to manage this disorder, which is treatable, but not curable. Therapy involves immunomodulation as well as the targeting of blood vessel mechanics and fibrosis. Physical therapy and psychotherapy are also important adjunctive therapies in this multifactorial disease.

Fibrosis in connective tissue disease: the role of the myofibroblast and fibroblast-epithelial cell interactions

PubMed Central

Krieg, Thomas; Abraham, David; Lafyatis, Robert

2007-01-01

Fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix accumulation, is a common feature of many connective tissue diseases, notably scleroderma (systemic sclerosis). Experimental studies suggest that a complex network of intercellular interactions involving endothelial cells, epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells, using an array of molecular mediators, drives the pathogenic events that lead to fibrosis. Transforming growth factor-β and endothelin-1, which are part of a cytokine hierarchy with connective tissue growth factor, are key mediators of fibrogenesis and are primarily responsible for the differentiation of fibroblasts toward a myofibroblast phenotype. The tight skin mouse (Tsk-1) model of cutaneous fibrosis suggests that numerous other genes may also be important. PMID:17767742

Mineralization/Anti-Mineralization Networks in the Skin and Vascular Connective Tissues

PubMed Central

Li, Qiaoli; Uitto, Jouni

2014-01-01

Ectopic mineralization has been linked to several common clinical conditions with considerable morbidity and mortality. The mineralization processes, both metastatic and dystrophic, affect the skin and vascular connective tissues. There are several contributing metabolic and environmental factors that make uncovering of the precise pathomechanisms of these acquired disorders exceedingly difficult. Several relatively rare heritable disorders share phenotypic manifestations similar to those in common conditions, and, consequently, they serve as genetically controlled model systems to study the details of the mineralization process in peripheral tissues. This overview will highlight diseases with mineral deposition in the skin and vascular connective tissues, as exemplified by familial tumoral calcinosis, pseudoxanthoma elasticum, generalized arterial calcification of infancy, and arterial calcification due to CD73 deficiency. These diseases, and their corresponding mouse models, provide insight into the pathomechanisms of soft tissue mineralization and point to the existence of intricate mineralization/anti-mineralization networks in these tissues. This information is critical for understanding the pathomechanistic details of different mineralization disorders, and it has provided the perspective to develop pharmacological approaches to counteract the consequences of ectopic mineralization. PMID:23665350

Histologic analysis of the acellular dermal matrix graft incorporation process: a pilot study in dogs.

PubMed

Luczyszyn, Sonia M; Grisi, Márcio F M; Novaes, Arthur B; Palioto, Daniela B; Souza, Sérgio L S; Taba, Mario

2007-08-01

Clinical results with acellular dermal matrix graft (ADMG) in periodontal surgeries suggest that the material is incorporated by the host tissues. However, histologic studies of the ADMG incorporation process are limited. The objective of this study was to evaluate the incorporation of ADMG into gingival tissues in a dog model. Gingival recession-type defects were created at the canines of six dogs. After 6 weeks, periodontal surgeries to repair the defects were performed using ADMG. Two animals each were sacrificed after 4, 8, and 12 weeks. At 4 weeks, thick collagen fibers from the ADMG were clearly seen in the connective tissue, and some blood vessels were penetrating into the ADMG. At 8 weeks, blood vessel penetration was enhanced, and collagen fiber bundles from the ADMG were seen sending branches into the connective tissue in all directions. After 12 weeks, the ADMG and the connective tissue seemed to be well integrated into a single highly vascularized structure, indicating almost complete incorporation of the ADMG.

Live Imaging of Axolotl Digit Regeneration Reveals Spatiotemporal Choreography of Diverse Connective Tissue Progenitor Pools.

PubMed

Currie, Joshua D; Kawaguchi, Akane; Traspas, Ricardo Moreno; Schuez, Maritta; Chara, Osvaldo; Tanaka, Elly M

2016-11-21

Connective tissues-skeleton, dermis, pericytes, fascia-are a key cell source for regenerating the patterned skeleton during axolotl appendage regeneration. This complexity has made it difficult to identify the cells that regenerate skeletal tissue. Inability to identify these cells has impeded a mechanistic understanding of blastema formation. By tracing cells during digit tip regeneration using brainbow transgenic axolotls, we show that cells from each connective tissue compartment have distinct spatial and temporal profiles of proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Chondrocytes proliferate but do not migrate into the regenerate. In contrast, pericytes proliferate, then migrate into the blastema and give rise solely to pericytes. Periskeletal cells and fibroblasts contribute the bulk of digit blastema cells and acquire diverse fates according to successive waves of migration that choreograph their proximal-distal and tissue contributions. We further show that platelet-derived growth factor signaling is a potent inducer of fibroblast migration, which is required to form the blastema. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Recombinant Amelogenin Protein Induces Apical Closure and Pulp Regeneration in Open-apex, Non-vital Permanent Canine Teeth

PubMed Central

Mounir, Maha M.F.; Matar, Moustafa A.; Lei, Yaping; Snead, Malcolm L.

2015-01-01

Introduction Recombinant DNA produced amelogenin protein was compared to calcium hydroxide in a study of immature apex closure conducted in 24 young mongrel dogs. Methods Root canals of maxillary and mandibular right premolars (n = 240) were instrumented and left open for 14 days. Canals were cleansed, irrigated and split equally for treatment with recombinant mouse amelogenin (n = 120) or calcium hydroxide (n = 120). Results After 1, 3, and 6 months, the animals were sacrificed and the treated teeth recovered for histological assessment and immunodetection of protein markers associated with odontogenic cells. After 1 month, amelogenin-treated canals revealed calcified tissue formed at the apical foramen and a pulp chamber containing soft connective tissue and hard tissue; amelogenin-treated canals assessed after 3 and 6 month intervals further included apical tissue functionally attached to bone by a periodontal ligament. In contrast, calcified apical tissue was poorly formed in the calcium hydroxide group and soft connective tissue within the pulp chamber was not observed. Conclusions The findings from this experimental strategy suggest recombinant amelogenin protein can signal cells to enhance apex formation in non-vital immature teeth and promote soft connective tissue regeneration. PMID:26709200

Mandibular phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor-mixed connective tissue variant in a young girl.

PubMed

Luo, Lisa; Low, Nelson; Vandervord, John

2013-11-01

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor-mixed connective tissue variant (PMTMCT) is an extremely rare tumor associated with tumor-induced osteomalacia. The majority occur in middle age and arise from the extremities. This report describes a young girl with PMTMCT arising in the mandible and with no evidence of paraneoplastic syndrome.

Evidence-based knowledge on the aesthetics and maintenance of peri-implant soft tissues: Osteology Foundation Consensus Report Part 1-Effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures on the maintenance of peri-implant soft tissue health.

PubMed

Giannobile, William V; Jung, Ronald E; Schwarz, Frank

2018-03-01

The goal of Working Group 1 at the 2nd Consensus Meeting of the Osteology Foundation was to comprehensively assess the effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures on peri-implant health or disease. A systematic review and meta-analysis on the effects of soft tissue augmentation procedures included a total of 10 studies (mucosal thickness: n = 6; keratinized tissue: n = 4). Consensus statements, clinical recommendations, and implications for future research were based on structured group discussions and a plenary session approval. Soft tissue grafting to increase the width of keratinized tissue around implants was associated with greater reductions in gingival and plaque indices when compared to non-augmented sites. Statistically significant differences were noted for final marginal bone levels in favor of an apically positioned flap plus autogenous graft vs. all standard-of-care control treatments investigated. Soft tissue grafting (i.e., autogenous connective tissue) to increase the mucosal thickness around implants in the aesthetic zone was associated with significantly less marginal bone loss over time, but no significant changes in bleeding on probing, probing depths, or plaque scores when compared to sites without grafting. The limited evidence available supports the use of soft tissue augmentation procedures to promote peri-implant health. © 2018 The Authors. Clinical Oral Implants Research Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Systemic connective tissue features in women with fibromuscular dysplasia.

PubMed

O'Connor, Sarah; Kim, Esther Sh; Brinza, Ellen; Moran, Rocio; Fendrikova-Mahlay, Natalia; Wolski, Kathy; Gornik, Heather L

2015-10-01

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a non-atherosclerotic disease associated with hypertension, headache, dissection, stroke, and aneurysm. The etiology is unknown but hypothesized to involve genetic and environmental components. Previous studies suggest a possible overlap of FMD with other connective tissue diseases that present with dissections and aneurysms. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of connective tissue physical features in FMD. A total of 142 FMD patients were consecutively enrolled at a single referral center (97.9% female, 92.1% of whom had multifocal FMD). Data are reported for 139 female patients. Moderately severe myopia (29.1%), high palate (33.1%), dental crowding (29.7%), and early-onset arthritis (15.6%) were prevalent features. Classic connective features such as hypertelorism, cleft palate, and hypermobility were uncommon. The frequency of systemic connective tissue features was compared between FMD patients with a high vascular risk profile (having had ⩾1 dissection and/or ⩾2 aneurysms) and those with a standard vascular risk profile. A history of spontaneous pneumothorax (5.9% high risk vs 0% standard risk) and atrophic scarring (17.6% high risk vs 6.8% standard risk) were significantly more prevalent in the high risk group, p<0.05. High palate was observed in 43.1% of the high risk group versus 27.3% in the standard risk group, p=0.055. In conclusion, in a cohort of women with FMD, there was a prevalence of moderately severe myopia, high palate, dental crowding, and early-onset osteoarthritis. However, a characteristic phenotype was not discovered. Several connective tissue features such as high palate and pneumothorax were more prominent among FMD patients with a high vascular risk profile. © The Author(s) 2015.

Systemic Connective Tissue Features in Women with Fibromuscular Dysplasia

PubMed Central

O’Connor, Sarah; Kim, Esther S. H.; Brinza, Ellen; Moran, Rocio; Fendrikova-Mahlay, Natalia; Wolski, Kathy; Gornik, Heather L.

2016-01-01

Background Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD) is an non-atherosclerotic disease associated with hypertension, headache, dissection, stroke, and aneurysm. The etiology is unknown but hypothesized to involve genetic and environmental components. Previous studies suggest a possible overlap of FMD with other connective tissue diseases that present with dissections and aneurysms. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of connective tissue physical features in FMD. Methods and Results 142 FMD patients were consecutively enrolled at a single referral center (97.9% female, 92.3% had multifocal FMD). Data are reported for 139 female patients. Moderately severe myopia (29.1%), high palate (33.1%), dental crowding (29.7%), and early onset arthritis (15.6%) were prevalent features. Classic connective features such as hypertelorism, cleft palate, and hypermobility were uncommon. Frequency of systemic connective tissue features was compared between FMD patients with a high vascular risk profile (having had ≥1 dissection and/or ≥2 aneurysms) and those with a standard vascular risk profile. History of spontaneous pneumothorax (5.9% high risk vs. 0% standard risk) and atrophic scarring (17.3% high risk vs. 6.8% standard risk) were significantly more prevalent in the high risk group, p<0.05. High palate was observed in 43.1% of the high risk group vs. 27.3% in the standard risk group, p=0.055. Conclusions In a cohort of women with FMD, there was a prevalence of moderately severe myopia, high palate, dental crowding, and early onset osteoarthritis. However, a characteristic phenotype was not discovered. Several connective tissue features such as high palate and pneumothorax were more prominent among FMD patients with a high vascular risk profile. PMID:26156071

Postextraction socket preservation using epithelial connective tissue graft vs porcine collagen matrix. 1-year results of a randomised controlled trial.

PubMed

Meloni, Silvio Mario; Tallarico, Marco; Lolli, Francesco Maria; Deledda, Alessandro; Pisano, Milena; Jovanovic, Sascha A

2015-01-01

To compare epithelial connective tissue graft vs porcine collagen matrix for sealing postextraction sockets grafted with deproteinised bovine bone. A total of 30 patients, who needed a maxillary tooth to be extracted between their premolars and required a delayed, fixed, single implant-supported restoration, had their teeth atraumatically extracted and their sockets grafted with deproteinised bovine bone. Patients were randomised according to a parallel group design into two arms: socket sealing with epithelial connective tissue graft (group A) vs porcine collagen matrix (group B). Outcome measures were: implant success and survival rate, complications, horizontal and vertical alveolar bone dimensional changes measured on Cone Beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans at three levels localised 1, 3, and 5 mm below the most coronal aspect of the bone crest (levels A, B, and C); and between the palatal and buccal wall peaks (level D); and peri-implant marginal bone level changes measured on periapical radiographs. 15 patients were randomised to group A and 15 to group B. No patients dropped out. No failed implants or complications were reported 1 year after implant placement. Five months after tooth extraction there were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups for both horizontal and vertical alveolar bone dimensional changes. At level A the difference was 0.13 ± 0.18; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.26 mm (P = 0.34), at level B it was 0.08 ± 0.23; 95% CI -0.14 to 0.14 (P = 0.61), at level C it was 0.05 ± 0.25; 95% CI -0.01 to 0.31 mm (P = 0.55) and at level D it was 0.13 ± 0.27; 95% CI -0.02 to 0.32 mm (P = 0.67). One year after implant placement there were no statistically significant differences between the 2 groups for peri-implant marginal bone level changes (difference: 0.07 ± 0.11 mm; 95% CI -0.02 to 0.16; P = 0.41). When teeth extractions were performed atraumatically and sockets were filled with deproteinised bovine bone, sealing the socket with a porcine collagen matrix or a epithelial connective tissue graft showed similar outcomes. The use of porcine collagen matrix allowed simplification of treatment because no palatal donor site was involved.

THE COMPARATIVE RESISTANCE OF BACTERIA AND HUMAN TISSUE CELLS TO CERTAIN COMMON ANTISEPTICS

PubMed Central

Lambert, Robert A.

1916-01-01

The comparative resistance of bacteria and human tissue cells to antiseptics and other chemicals may be easily tested by tissue cultures under conditions which approximate those found in the living body. A comparative study shows that while human cells (connective tissue and wandering cells) are highly resistant to many antiseptics, they are in general more easily killed than bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus). Of the antiseptics tested, which include mercuric chloride, iodine, potassium mercuric iodide, phenol, tricresol, hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorites (Dakin's solution), argyrol, and alcohol, the one which approaches most closely the ideal disinfectant is iodine, which kills bacteria in strengths that do not seriously injure connective tissue cells or wandering cells. PMID:19868066

The Biological Connection Markup Language: a SBGN-compliant format for visualization, filtering and analysis of biological pathways

PubMed Central

Rizzetto, Lisa; Guedez, Damariz Rivero; Donato, Michele; Romualdi, Chiara; Draghici, Sorin; Cavalieri, Duccio

2011-01-01

Motivation: Many models and analysis of signaling pathways have been proposed. However, neither of them takes into account that a biological pathway is not a fixed system, but instead it depends on the organism, tissue and cell type as well as on physiological, pathological and experimental conditions. Results: The Biological Connection Markup Language (BCML) is a format to describe, annotate and visualize pathways. BCML is able to store multiple information, permitting a selective view of the pathway as it exists and/or behave in specific organisms, tissues and cells. Furthermore, BCML can be automatically converted into data formats suitable for analysis and into a fully SBGN-compliant graphical representation, making it an important tool that can be used by both computational biologists and ‘wet lab’ scientists. Availability and implementation: The XML schema and the BCML software suite are freely available under the LGPL for download at http://bcml.dc-atlas.net. They are implemented in Java and supported on MS Windows, Linux and OS X. Contact: duccio.cavalieri@unifi.it; sorin@wayne.edu Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. PMID:21653523

Evaluation of the Effects of BioCell Collagen, a Novel Cartilage Extract, on Connective Tissue Support and Functional Recovery From Exercise

PubMed Central

Lopez, Hector L.; Ziegenfuss, Tim N.; Park, Joosang

2015-01-01

Context Little is known about the effect of nutritional supplementation on metabolic optimization for enhancing adaptation and recovery of the connective tissue elements that support musculoskeletal function. Objective The study aimed to determine the potential effect of supplementation with a novel, hydrolyzed chicken sternal cartilage extract—called BioCell Collagen—on biomarkers and functional indices of recovery from intense exercise. Design The research team designed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study. Setting The study was conducted at the Center for Applied Health Sciences in Stow, OH, USA. Participants Participants were 8 healthy, recreationally active individuals, with a mean age of 29.3 y. Intervention Participants ingested either 3 g of a novel, hydrolyzed chicken sternal cartilage extract called BioCell Collagen (“supplement”) or 3 g of a placebo daily for 6 wk prior to challenge with an upper-body, muscle-damaging resistance exercise (UBC) on day 43 and a rechallenge on day 46 to assess functional recovery. Outcome Measures Primary endpoints were levels of 3 blood biomarkers—creatine kinase (CK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and C-reactive protein (CRP)— and scores on a clinical pain scale and a perceived recovery scale (PRS). Results The extract attenuated the post-UBC increase in serum markers for muscle tissue damage: CK, LDH, and CRP. For the intervention group vs the placebo group, the mean changes were as follows: (1) an increase in CK of 20 U/L vs 4726 U/L, respectively; (2) a decrease in LDH of 3.5 U/L vs an increase of 82.9 U/L, respectively; and (3) an increase in CRP of 0.07 mg/L vs an increase of 0.7 mg/L, respectively. The performance decrement in bench press repetitions to failure was 57.9% on day 43 and 57.8% on day 46 for the intervention group vs 72.2% on day 43 and 65% on day 46 for the placebo group. The overall trend for the performance decrement, together with the results for the PRS, suggested that a more robust muscular recovery and adaptive response occurred with use of the extract. The supplement was well tolerated. Conclusions The study’s preliminary data are promising with regard to the beneficial effects of the extract on connective tissue protection and recovery in those engaged in routine resistance training and cardiovascular exercise. A larger study is warranted to confirm and refine these findings. PMID:26770145

How Muscle Structure and Composition Influence Meat and Flesh Quality

PubMed Central

Listrat, Anne; Lebret, Bénédicte; Louveau, Isabelle; Astruc, Thierry; Bonnet, Muriel; Lefaucheur, Louis; Picard, Brigitte; Bugeon, Jérôme

2016-01-01

Skeletal muscle consists of several tissues, such as muscle fibers and connective and adipose tissues. This review aims to describe the features of these various muscle components and their relationships with the technological, nutritional, and sensory properties of meat/flesh from different livestock and fish species. Thus, the contractile and metabolic types, size and number of muscle fibers, the content, composition and distribution of the connective tissue, and the content and lipid composition of intramuscular fat play a role in the determination of meat/flesh appearance, color, tenderness, juiciness, flavor, and technological value. Interestingly, the biochemical and structural characteristics of muscle fibers, intramuscular connective tissue, and intramuscular fat appear to play independent role, which suggests that the properties of these various muscle components can be independently modulated by genetics or environmental factors to achieve production efficiency and improve meat/flesh quality. PMID:27022618

The morphological difference between glaucoma and other optic neuropathies

PubMed Central

Burgoyne, Claude

2016-01-01

The clinical phenomenon of cupping has two principal pathophysiologic components in all optic neuropathies: prelaminar thinning and laminar deformation. We define prelaminar thinning to be the portion of cup enlargement that results from thinning of the prelaminar tissues due to physical compression and/or loss of Retinal Ganglion Cell axons. We define laminar deformation or laminar cupping to be the portion of cup enlargement that results from permanent, intraocular pressure-(IOP) induced deformation of the lamina cribrosa and peripapillary scleral connective tissues following damage and/or remodeling. We propose that the defining phenomenon of glaucomatous cupping is deformation and/or remodeling of the neural and connective tissues of the optic nerve head (ONH), which is governed by the distribution of IOP-related connective tissue stress and strain, regardless of the mechanism of insult or the level of IOP at which that deformation and/or remodeling occurs. Said in another way, “glaucomatous cupping” is the term clinicians use to describe the clinical appearance and behavior the ONH assumes as its neural and connective tissues deform, remodel or mechanically fail: 1) in a pattern and 2) by the several pathophysiologic processes governed by IOP-related connective tissue stress and strain. ONH Biomechanics explains why a given optic nerve head will demonstrate a certain form of “cupping” and at what level of IOP that might happen. Animal models are allowing us to tease apart the important components of cupping in IOP-related and non-IOP-related forms of optic neuropathy. A paradigm change in spectral domain optical coherence tomography ONH, retinal nerve fiber layer and Macular imaging should improve our ability to phenotype all forms of damage to the visual system including glaucoma. PMID:26274837

Nanomechanical signatures of oral submucous fibrosis in sub-epithelial connective tissue.

PubMed

Anura, Anji; Das, Debanjan; Pal, Mousumi; Paul, Ranjan Rashmi; Das, Soumen; Chatterjee, Jyotirmoy

2017-01-01

Oral sub-mucous fibrosis (OSF), a potentially malignant disorder, exhibits extensive remodeling of extra-cellular matrix in the form of sub-epithelial fibrosis which is a possible sequel of assaults from different oral habit related irritants. It has been assumed that micro/nanobio-mechanical imbalance experienced in the oral mucosa due to fibrosis may be deterministic for malignant potential (7-13%) of this pathosis. Present study explores changes in mechanobiological attributes of sub-epithelial connective tissue of OSF and the normal counterpart. The atomic force microscopy was employed to investigate tissue topography at micro/nano levels. It documented the presence of closely packed parallel arrangement of dense collagen fibers with wide variation in bandwidth and loss of D-space in OSF as compared to normal. The AFM based indentation revealed that sub-epithelium of OSF tissue has lost its flexibility with increased Young's modulus, stiffness, adhesiveness and reduced deformation of the juxta-epithealial connective tissue towards the deeper layer. These significant variations in nano-mechanical properties of the connective tissue indicated plausible impacts on patho-physiological microenvironment. Excessive deposition of collagen I and diminished expression of collagen III, fibronectin along with presence of α-SMA positive myofibroblast in OSF depicted its pathological basis and indicated the influence of altered ECM on this pathosis. The mechanobiological changes in OSF were corroborative with change in collagen composition recorded through immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. The revelation of comparative nanomechanical profiles of normal oral mucosa and OSF in the backdrop of their structural and cardinal molecular attributes thus became pivotal for developing holistic pathobiological insight about possible connects for malignant transformation of this pre-cancer. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Tension, cell shape and triple-junction angle anisotropy in the Drosophila germband

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lacy, Monica; Hutson, M. Shane; Meyer, Christian; McDonald, Xena

In the field of tissue mechanics, the embryonic development of Drosophila melanogaster offers many opportunities for study. One of Drosophila's most crucial morphogenetic stages is the retraction of an epithelial tissue called the germband. During retraction, the segments of the retracting germband, as well as the individual germband cells, elongate in response to forces from a connected tissue, the amnioserosa. Modeling of this elongation, based on tissue responses to laser wounding, has plotted the internal germband tension against the external amnioserosa stress, creating a phase space to determine points and regions corresponding to stable elongation. Although the resulting fits indicate a necessary opposition of internal and external forces, they are inconclusive regarding the exact balance. We will present results testing the model predictions by measuring cell shapes and the correlations between cell-edge directions and triple-junction angles. These measures resolve the ambiguity in pinpointing the internal-external force balance for each germband segment. Research was supported by NIH Grant Numbers 1R01GM099107 and 1R21AR068933.

Exploiting unsupervised and supervised classification for segmentation of the pathological lung in CT

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Korfiatis, P.; Kalogeropoulou, C.; Daoussis, D.; Petsas, T.; Adonopoulos, A.; Costaridou, L.

2009-07-01

Delineation of lung fields in presence of diffuse lung diseases (DLPDs), such as interstitial pneumonias (IP), challenges segmentation algorithms. To deal with IP patterns affecting the lung border an automated image texture classification scheme is proposed. The proposed segmentation scheme is based on supervised texture classification between lung tissue (normal and abnormal) and surrounding tissue (pleura and thoracic wall) in the lung border region. This region is coarsely defined around an initial estimate of lung border, provided by means of Markov Radom Field modeling and morphological operations. Subsequently, a support vector machine classifier was trained to distinguish between the above two classes of tissue, using textural feature of gray scale and wavelet domains. 17 patients diagnosed with IP, secondary to connective tissue diseases were examined. Segmentation performance in terms of overlap was 0.924±0.021, and for shape differentiation mean, rms and maximum distance were 1.663±0.816, 2.334±1.574 and 8.0515±6.549 mm, respectively. An accurate, automated scheme is proposed for segmenting abnormal lung fields in HRC affected by IP

Comparison of Demineralized Dentin and Demineralized Freeze Dried Bone as Carriers for Enamel Matrix Proteins in a Rat Critical Size Defect

DTIC Science & Technology

2005-05-01

matrix derivative or connective tissue . Part 1: comparison of clinical parameters. J Periodontol 2003;74:1110-1125. Minabe M.: A critical review of the... connective tissue , both bone and PDL can serve as sources of progenitor cells for regeneration. Surgical techniques started to evolve with the knowledge...regeneration was Prichard in 1977. This technique involved removal of overlying gingival tissue leaving interdental bone denuded (Prichard 1977). In 1983

[A study on pathology and immunoglobulin of orbital tissues from cases with Grave's ophthalmopathy].

PubMed

Zhou, X; Luo, Q; Xia, R

1999-07-01

To investigate pathological changes and the expression, localization of immunoglobulins (IgA & IgE) in orbital tissues from patients with Grave's ophthalmopathy. Orbital tissues were obtained at surgery from 19 patients with Grave's ophthalmopathy and 17 control subjects. Immunohistochemical studies were carried out by using anti-IgA, anti-IgE antibody and a streptavidin-biotin-peroxidase detection system. In addition, hematoxylin-eosin, alcian blue and Masson trichrome stains were employed to demonstrate the pathologic changes in the tissues. 12 of 17 samples from patients exhibited IgA positive staining for the connective tissue associated with the extraocular muscles and orbicularis oculi, however only 2 control muscles reacted minimally. IgE positive material was found in association with the majority of leukocytes and with muscle fibers in 13 patients, but only 4 control subjects displayed mild reactions. Significant expression of IgE was more often demonstrated in patients with eye disease of short course than in those of longer course. These results support the notion that the eye muscle fiber and fibroblast are important targets of the orbital autoimmune reaction in Graves' ophthalmopathy in which IgA and IgE both play important roles.

Biomechanics and functional morphology of a climbing monocot

PubMed Central

Hesse, Linnea; Wagner, Sarah T.; Neinhuis, Christoph

2016-01-01

Plants with a climbing growth habit possess unique biomechanical properties arising from adaptations to changing loading conditions connected with close attachment to mechanical supports. In monocot climbers, mechanical adaptation is restricted by the absence of a bifacial vascular cambium. Flagellaria indica was used to investigate the mechanical properties and adaptations of a monocot climber that, uniquely, attaches to the surrounding vegetation via leaf tendrils. Biomechanical methods such as three-point bending and torsion tests were used together with anatomical studies on tissue development, modification and distribution. In general, the torsional modulus was lower than the bending modulus; hence, torsional stiffness was less than flexural stiffness. Basal parts of mature stems showed the greatest stiffness while that of more apical stem segments levelled off. Mechanical properties were modulated via tissue maturation processes mainly affecting the peripheral region of the stem. Peripheral vascular bundles showed a reduction in the amount of conducting tissue while the proportion and density of the bundle sheath increased. Furthermore, adjacent bundle sheaths merged resulting in a dense ring of fibrous tissue. Although F. indica lacks secondary cambial growth, the climbing habit is facilitated by a complex interaction of tissue maturation and attachment. PMID:26819259

The Dermal Apron Technique for Immediate Implant Socket Management: A Novel Technique.

PubMed

Levin, Barry P

2016-01-01

With immediate implant placement and provisionalization (IIP) in the esthetic zone, measures to counter hard and soft tissue loss are frequently necessary. To reduce the morbidity associated with bone and connective tissue procurement, various exogenous materials are utilized. The "Dermal Apron Technique" presented in this article demonstrates the use of a composite bone particulate (allograft/xenograft) plus a dermal allograft, adapted around screw-retained temporary crowns and secured within a subperiosteal pouch. The purpose is to augment the thickness of peri-implant mucosa for the purpose of preserving ridge dimensions and preventing mucosal recession. Controlled studies are required to further support its use. Clinical significance: Soft tissue health and harmony are critical for successful implant therapy in the esthetic regions of the dentition. Often, autogenous soft tissue grafts are used to augment peri-implant soft tissues. The Dermal Apron Technique is a method, that in specific situations, obviates the need for autogenous grafting. This reduces treatment time and morbidity associated with procurement of these grafts. The Dermal Apron Technique is used simultaneous with immediate placement and provisionalization and can improve long-term esthetic outcomes for patients. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Modeling of Tool-Tissue Interactions for Computer-Based Surgical Simulation: A Literature Review

PubMed Central

Misra, Sarthak; Ramesh, K. T.; Okamura, Allison M.

2009-01-01

Surgical simulators present a safe and potentially effective method for surgical training, and can also be used in robot-assisted surgery for pre- and intra-operative planning. Accurate modeling of the interaction between surgical instruments and organs has been recognized as a key requirement in the development of high-fidelity surgical simulators. Researchers have attempted to model tool-tissue interactions in a wide variety of ways, which can be broadly classified as (1) linear elasticity-based, (2) nonlinear (hyperelastic) elasticity-based finite element (FE) methods, and (3) other techniques that not based on FE methods or continuum mechanics. Realistic modeling of organ deformation requires populating the model with real tissue data (which are difficult to acquire in vivo) and simulating organ response in real time (which is computationally expensive). Further, it is challenging to account for connective tissue supporting the organ, friction, and topological changes resulting from tool-tissue interactions during invasive surgical procedures. Overcoming such obstacles will not only help us to model tool-tissue interactions in real time, but also enable realistic force feedback to the user during surgical simulation. This review paper classifies the existing research on tool-tissue interactions for surgical simulators specifically based on the modeling techniques employed and the kind of surgical operation being simulated, in order to inform and motivate future research on improved tool-tissue interaction models. PMID:20119508

Relative Composition of Fibrous Connective and Fatty/Glandular Tissue in Connective Tissue Grafts Depends on the Harvesting Technique but not the Donor Site of the Hard Palate.

PubMed

Bertl, Kristina; Pifl, Markus; Hirtler, Lena; Rendl, Barbara; Nürnberger, Sylvia; Stavropoulos, Andreas; Ulm, Christian

2015-12-01

Whether the composition of palatal connective tissue grafts (CTGs) varies depending on donor site or harvesting technique in terms of relative amounts of fibrous connective tissue (CT) and fatty/glandular tissue (FGT) is currently unknown and is histologically assessed in the present study. In 10 fresh human cadavers, tissue samples were harvested in the anterior and posterior palate and in areas close to (marginal) and distant from (apical) the mucosal margin. Mucosal thickness, lamina propria thickness (defined as the extent of subepithelial portion of the biopsy containing ≤25% or ≤50% FGT), and proportions of CT and FGT were semi-automatically estimated for the entire mucosa and for CTGs virtually harvested by split-flap (SF) preparation minimum 1 mm deep or after deepithelialization (DE). Palatal mucosal thickness, ranging from 2.35 to 6.89 mm, and histologic composition showed high interindividual variability. Lamina propria thickness (P >0.21) and proportions of CT (P = 0.48) and FGT (P = 0.15) did not differ significantly among the donor sites (anterior, posterior, marginal, apical). However, thicker palatal tissue was associated with higher FGT content (P <0.01) and thinner lamina propria (P ≤0.03). Independent of the donor site, DE-harvested CTG contained a significantly higher proportion of CT and a lower proportion of FGT than an SF-harvested CTG (P <0.04). Despite high interindividual variability in terms of relative tissue composition in the hard palate, DE-harvested CTG contains much larger amounts of CT and much lower amounts of FGT than SF-harvested CTG, irrespective of the harvesting site.

Pregnancy and autoimmune connective tissue diseases

PubMed Central

Marder, Wendy; Littlejohn, Emily A

2016-01-01

The autoimmune connective tissue diseases predominantly affect women and often occur during the reproductive years. Thus, specialized issues in pregnancy planning and management are commonly encountered in this patient population. This chapter provides a current overview of pregnancy as a risk factor for onset of autoimmune disease, considerations related to the course of pregnancy in several autoimmune connective tissue diseases, and disease management and medication issues before and during pregnancy and the postpartum period. A major theme that has emerged across these inflammatory diseases is that active maternal disease during pregnancy is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, and that maternal and fetal health can be optimized when conception is planned during times of inactive disease and through maintaining treatment regimens compatible with pregnancy. PMID:27421217

Scleroderma renal crisis in a case of mixed connective tissue disease.

PubMed

Vij, Mukul; Agrawal, Vinita; Jain, Manoj

2014-07-01

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is an overlap syndrome first defined in 1972 by Sharp et al. In this original study, the portrait emerged of a connective tissue disorder sharing features of systemic lupus erythematosus, systemic sclerosis (scleroderma) and polymyositis. Scleroderma renal crisis (SRC) is an extremely infrequent but serious complication that can occur in MCTD. The histologic picture of SRC is that of a thrombotic micro-angiopathic process. Renal biopsy plays an important role in confirming the clinical diagnosis, excluding overlapping/superimposed diseases that might lead to acute renal failure in MCTD patients, helping to predict the clinical outcome and optimizing patient management. We herewith report a rare case of SRC in a patient with MCTD and review the relevant literature.

Co-expression networks reveal the tissue-specific regulation of transcription and splicing.

PubMed

Saha, Ashis; Kim, Yungil; Gewirtz, Ariel D H; Jo, Brian; Gao, Chuan; McDowell, Ian C; Engelhardt, Barbara E; Battle, Alexis

2017-11-01

Gene co-expression networks capture biologically important patterns in gene expression data, enabling functional analyses of genes, discovery of biomarkers, and interpretation of genetic variants. Most network analyses to date have been limited to assessing correlation between total gene expression levels in a single tissue or small sets of tissues. Here, we built networks that additionally capture the regulation of relative isoform abundance and splicing, along with tissue-specific connections unique to each of a diverse set of tissues. We used the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) project v6 RNA sequencing data across 50 tissues and 449 individuals. First, we developed a framework called Transcriptome-Wide Networks (TWNs) for combining total expression and relative isoform levels into a single sparse network, capturing the interplay between the regulation of splicing and transcription. We built TWNs for 16 tissues and found that hubs in these networks were strongly enriched for splicing and RNA binding genes, demonstrating their utility in unraveling regulation of splicing in the human transcriptome. Next, we used a Bayesian biclustering model that identifies network edges unique to a single tissue to reconstruct Tissue-Specific Networks (TSNs) for 26 distinct tissues and 10 groups of related tissues. Finally, we found genetic variants associated with pairs of adjacent nodes in our networks, supporting the estimated network structures and identifying 20 genetic variants with distant regulatory impact on transcription and splicing. Our networks provide an improved understanding of the complex relationships of the human transcriptome across tissues. © 2017 Saha et al.; Published by Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press.

Defining the hierarchical organisation of collagen VI microfibrils at nanometre to micrometre length scales.

PubMed

Godwin, Alan R F; Starborg, Tobias; Sherratt, Michael J; Roseman, Alan M; Baldock, Clair

2017-04-01

Extracellular matrix microfibrils are critical components of connective tissues with a wide range of mechanical and cellular signalling functions. Collagen VI is a heteromeric network-forming collagen which is expressed in tissues such as skin, lung, blood vessels and articular cartilage where it anchors cells into the matrix allowing for transduction of biochemical and mechanical signals. It is not understood how collagen VI is arranged into microfibrils or how these microfibrils are arranged into tissues. Therefore we have characterised the hierarchical organisation of collagen VI across multiple length scales. The frozen hydrated nanostructure of purified collagen VI microfibrils was reconstructed using cryo-TEM. The bead region has a compact hollow head and flexible tail regions linked by the collagenous interbead region. Serial block face SEM imaging coupled with electron tomography of the pericellular matrix (PCM) of murine articular cartilage revealed that the PCM has a meshwork-like organisation formed from globular densities ∼30nm in diameter. These approaches can characterise structures spanning nanometer to millimeter length scales to define the nanostructure of individual collagen VI microfibrils and the micro-structural organisation of these fibrils within tissues to help in the future design of better mimetics for tissue engineering. Cartilage is a connective tissue rich in extracellular matrix molecules and is tough and compressive to cushion the bones of joints. However, in adults cartilage is poorly repaired after injury and so this is an important target for tissue engineering. Many connective tissues contain collagen VI, which forms microfibrils and networks but we understand very little about these assemblies or the tissue structures they form. Therefore, we have use complementary imaging techniques to image collagen VI microfibrils from the nano-scale to the micro-scale in order to understand the structure and the assemblies it forms. These findings will help to inform the future design of scaffolds to mimic connective tissues in regenerative medicine applications. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A Good Neighborhood for Cells: Bioreactor Demonstration System (BDS-05)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chung, Leland W. K.; Goodwin, Thomas J. (Technical Monitor)

2002-01-01

Good neighborhoods help you grow. As with a city, the lives of a cell are governed by its neighborhood connections Connections that do not work are implicated in a range of diseases. One of those connections - between prostate cancer and bone cells - will be studied on STS-107 using the Bioreactor Demonstration System (BDS-05). To improve the prospects for finding novel therapies, and to identify biomarkers that predict disease progression, scientists need tissue models that behave the same as metastatic or spreading cancer. This is one of several NASA-sponsored lines of cell science research that use the microgravity environment of orbit in an attempt to grow lifelike tissue models for health research. As cells replicate, they "self associate" to form a complex matrix of collagens, proteins, fibers, and other structures. This highly evolved microenvironment tells each cell who is next door, how it should grow arid into what shapes, and how to respond to bacteria, wounds, and other stimuli. Studying these mechanisms outside the body is difficult because cells do not easily self-associate outside a natural environment. Most cell cultures produce thin, flat specimens that offer limited insight into how cells work together. Ironically, growing cell cultures in the microgravity of space produces cell assemblies that more closely resemble what is found in bodies on Earth. NASA's Bioreactor comprises a miniature life support system and a rotating vessel containing cell specimens in a nutrient medium. Orbital BDS experiments that cultured colon and prostate cancers have been highly promising.

The Effect Of microbial Mats In The Decay Of Anurans With Implications For Understanding Taphonomic Processes In The Fossil Record

PubMed Central

Iniesto, M.; Villalba, I.; Buscalioni, A. D.; Guerrero, M. C.; López-Archilla, A. I.

2017-01-01

The pattern and sequence of the decomposition of the Pipidae African dwarf frog (Hymenochirus boettgeri) is tracked in an experiment with microbial mats in order to explore soft tissue preservation over three years. Frog decay in microbial mats is preceded by rapid entombment (25–30 days) and mediated by the formation of a sarcophagus, which is built by a complex microbial community. The frog carcasses maintained a variety of soft tissues for years. Labile organic structures show greater durability within the mat, cells maintain their general shape (bone marrow cells and adipocytes), and muscles and connective tissues (adipose and fibrous tendons) exhibit their original organic structures. In addition, other soft tissues are promptly mineralized (day 540) in a Ca-rich carbonate phase (encephalic tectum) or enriched in sulphur residues (integumentary system). The result is coherent with a bias in soft-tissue preservation, as some tissues are more likely to be conserved than others. The outcomes support observations of exceptionally preserved fossil anurans (adults and tadpoles). Decomposition in mats shows singular conditions of pH and dissolved oxygen. Mineralization processes could be more diverse than in simple heterotrophic biofilms, opening new taphonomic processes that have yet to be explored. PMID:28338095

Synergistic interactions between corrosion and wear at titanium-based dental implant connections: A scoping review.

PubMed

Apaza-Bedoya, K; Tarce, M; Benfatti, C A M; Henriques, B; Mathew, M T; Teughels, W; Souza, J C M

2017-12-01

Two-piece implant systems are mainly used in oral implantology involving an osseointegrated implant connected to an abutment, which supports prosthetic structures. It is well documented that the presence of microgaps, biofilms and oral fluids at the implant-abutment connection can cause mechanical and biological complications. The aim of this review paper was to report the degradation at the implant-abutment connection by wear and corrosion processes taking place in the oral cavity. Most of the retrieved studies evaluated the wear and corrosion (tribocorrosion) of titanium-based materials used for implants and abutments in artificial saliva. Electrochemical and wear tests together with microscopic techniques were applied to validate the tribocorrosion behavior of the surfaces. A few studies inspected the wear on the inner surfaces of the implant connection as a result of fatigue or removal of abutments. The studies reported increased microgaps after fatigue tests. In addition, data suggest that micromovements occurring at the contacting surfaces can increase the wear of the inner surfaces of the connection. Biofilms and/or glycoproteins act as lubricants, although they can also amplify the corrosion of the surfaces. Consequently, loosening of the implant-abutment connection can take place during mastication. In addition, wear and corrosion debris such as ions and micro- and nanoparticles released into the surrounding tissues can stimulate peri-implant inflammation that can lead to pathologic bone resorption. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Two-photon laser-generated microtracks in 3D collagen lattices: principles of MMP-dependent and -independent collective cancer cell invasion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ilina, Olga; Bakker, Gert-Jan; Vasaturo, Angela; Hoffman, Robert M.; Friedl, Peter

2011-02-01

Cancer invasion into an extracellular matrix (ECM) results from a biophysical reciprocal interplay between the expanding cancer lesion and tissue barriers imposed by the adjacent microenvironment. In vivo, connective tissue provides both densely packed ECM barriers adjacent to channel/track-like spaces and loosely organized zones, both of which may impact cancer invasion mode and efficiency; however little is known about how three-dimensional (3D) spaces and aligned tracks present in interstitial tissue guide cell invasion. We here describe a two-photon laser ablation procedure to generate 3D microtracks in dense 3D collagen matrices that support and guide collective cancer cell invasion. Whereas collective invasion of mammary tumor (MMT) breast cancer cells into randomly organized collagen networks required matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity for cell-derived collagen breakdown, re-alignment and track generation, preformed tracks supported MMP-independent collective invasion down to a track caliber of 3 µm. Besides contact guidance along the track of least resistance and initial cell deformation (squeezing), MMP-independent collective cell strands led to secondary track expansion by a pushing mechanism. Thus, two-photon laser ablation is useful to generate barrier-free microtracks in a 3D ECM which guide collective invasion independently of pericellular proteolysis.

Tumoural Expression of Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) Impacts on Survival in Patients Diagnosed with Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC).

PubMed

Lamarca, Angela; Mendiola, Marta; Bernal, Elsa; Heredia, Victoria; Díaz, Esther; Miguel, María; Pastrian, Laura G; Burgos, Emilio; Feliu, Jaime; Barriuso, Jorge

2015-01-01

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tends to develop in the liver when there is a high level of background inflammation (cirrhosis). Treatment options are limited and mainly based on systemic therapies such as anti-angiogenic drugs (e.g. sorafenib). Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a matricellular protein involved in inflammation, tumour growth and angiogenesis. The aim of this study is to determine the expression of CTGF and hypoxia inducible factors (HIF) in HCC and to clarify its impact on relapse and survival. Eligibility criteria for the study consisted of patients with a diagnosis of HCC, formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) biopsy tissue, as well as relapse and available survival data. A tissue microarray was constructed from ≥ 70% tumoural sections. The expressions of CTGF, HIF1α and HIF2α were analysed by immunohistochemistry. The relationship between expression of CTGF/HIF1α and CTGF/HIF2α were analysed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed. Fifty-three patients were screened; 39 patients were eligible for this study. Patients were treated with radical intent. At the end of follow up, 59% patients relapsed (28.2% locally, 10.3% multicentric liver relapse and 7.7% distant metastases). Estimated median disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were 23.4 (95%CI 7.18-39.66) and 38.6 months (95%CI 30.7-46.6), respectively. Expression of CTGF was: negative 23.1%, focal 48.7% and diffuse 23.1%. A non-statistically significant relationship between expression of CTGF and HIF was shown supporting an alternative pathway for CTGF expression in HCC. In multivariate analysis CTGF expression was an independent factor related to OS, with shorter survival in those patients with focal/diffuse CTGF expression (HR 2.46; 95%CI 1.18-5.15). Our results support that expression of CTGF is an independent factor associated with shorter OS in HCC. Further analysis of CTGF expression in a larger series of HCC patients is required to confirm CTGF as a prognostic biomarker in HCC.

Development and myogenesis of the vermiform Buddenbrockia (Myxozoa) and implications for cnidarian body plan evolution

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background The enigmatic wormlike parasite Buddenbrockia plumatellae has recently been shown to belong to the Myxozoa, which are now supported as a clade within Cnidaria. Most myxozoans are morphologically extremely simplified, lacking major metazoan features such as epithelial tissue layers, gut, nervous system, body axes and gonads. This hinders comparisons to free-living cnidarians and thus an understanding of myxozoan evolution and identification of their cnidarian sister group. However, B. plumatellae is less simplified than other myxozoans and therefore is of specific significance for such evolutionary considerations. Methods We analyse and describe the development of major body plan features in Buddenbrockia worms using a combination of histology, electron microscopy and confocal microscopy. Results Early developmental stages develop a primary body axis that shows a polarity, which is manifested as a gradient of tissue development, enabling distinction between the two worm tips. This polarity is maintained in adult worms, which, in addition, often develop a pore at the distal tip. The musculature comprises tetraradially arranged longitudinal muscle blocks consisting of independent myocytes embedded in the extracellular matrix between inner and outer epithelial tissue layers. The muscle fibres are obliquely oriented and in fully grown worms consistently form an angle of 12° with respect to the longitudinal axis of the worm in each muscle block and hence confer chirality. Connecting cells form a link between each muscle block and constitute four rows of cells that run in single file along the length of the worm. These connecting cells are remnants of the inner epithelial tissue layer and are anchored to the extracellular matrix. They are likely to have a biomechanical function. Conclusions The polarised primary body axis represents an ancient feature present in the last common ancestor of Cnidaria and Bilateria. The tetraradial arrangement of musculature is consistent with a medusozoan affinity for Myxozoa. However, the chiral pattern of muscle fibre orientation is apparently novel within Cnidaria and could thus be a specific adaptation. The presence of independent myocytes instead of Cnidaria-like epitheliomuscular cells can be interpreted as further support for the presence of mesoderm in cnidarians, or it may represent convergent evolution to a bilaterian condition. PMID:22594622

Dielectric properties of biological tissues in which cells are connected by communicating junctions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Asami, Koji

2007-06-01

The frequency dependence of the complex permittivity of biological tissues has been simulated using a simple model that is a cubic array of spherical cells in a parallel plate capacitor. The cells are connected by two types of communicating junctions: one is a membrane-lined channel for plasmodesmata in plant tissues, and the other is a conducting patch of adjoining plasma membranes for gap junctions in animal tissues. Both junctions provided similar effects on the dielectric properties of the tissue model. The model without junction showed a dielectric relaxation (called β-dispersion) that was expected from an interfacial polarization theory for a concentrated suspension of spherical cells. The dielectric relaxation was the same as that of the model in which neighbouring cells were connected by junctions perpendicular to the applied electric field. When neighbouring cells were connected by junctions parallel to the applied electric field or in all directions, a dielectric relaxation appeared at a lower frequency side in addition to the β-dispersion, corresponding to the so called α-dispersion. When junctions were randomly introduced at varied probabilities Pj, the low-frequency (LF) relaxation curve became broader, especially at Pj of 0.2-0.5, and its intensity was proportional to Pj up to 0.7. The intensity and the characteristic frequency of the LF relaxation both decreased with decreasing junction conductance. The simulations indicate that communicating junctions are important for understanding the LF dielectric relaxation in tissues.

Connective tissue growth factor immunohistochemical expression is associated with gallbladder cancer progression.

PubMed

Garcia, Patricia; Leal, Pamela; Alvarez, Hector; Brebi, Priscilla; Ili, Carmen; Tapia, Oscar; Roa, Juan C

2013-02-01

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is an aggressive neoplasia associated with late diagnosis, unsatisfactory treatment, and poor prognosis. Molecular mechanisms involved in GBC pathogenesis remain poorly understood. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is thought to play a role in the pathologic processes and is overexpressed in several human cancers, including GBC. No information is available about CTGF expression in early stages of gallbladder carcinogenesis. Objective.- To evaluate the expression level of CTGF in benign and malignant lesions of gallbladder and its correlation with clinicopathologic features and GBC prognosis. Connective tissue growth factor protein was examined by immunohistochemistry on tissue microarrays containing tissue samples of chronic cholecystitis (n = 51), dysplasia (n = 15), and GBC (n = 169). The samples were scored according to intensity of staining as low/absent and high CTGF expressers. Statistical analysis was performed using the χ(2) test or Fisher exact probability test with a significance level of P < .05. Survival analysis was assessed by the Kaplan-Meier method and the log-rank test. Connective tissue growth factor expression showed a progressive increase from chronic cholecystitis to dysplasia and then to early and advanced carcinoma. Immunohistochemical expression (score ≥2) was significantly higher in advanced tumors, in comparison with chronic cholecystitis (P < .001) and dysplasia (P = .03). High levels of CTGF expression correlated with better survival (P = .04). Our results suggest a role for CTGF in GBC progression and a positive association with better prognosis. In addition, they underscore the importance of considering the involvement of inflammation on GBC development.

Bio-based polyurethane for tissue engineering applications: How hydroxyapatite nanoparticles influence the structure, thermal and biological behavior of polyurethane composites.

PubMed

Gabriel, Laís P; Santos, Maria Elizabeth M Dos; Jardini, André L; Bastos, Gilmara N T; Dias, Carmen G B T; Webster, Thomas J; Maciel Filho, Rubens

2017-01-01

In this work, thermoset polyurethane composites were prepared by the addition of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles using the reactants polyol polyether and an aliphatic diisocyanate. The polyol employed in this study was extracted from the Euterpe oleracea Mart. seeds from the Amazon Region of Brazil. The influence of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles on the structure and morphology of the composites was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), the structure was evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), thermal properties were analyzed by thermogravimetry analysis (TGA), and biological properties were studied by in vitro and in vivo studies. It was found that the addition of HA nanoparticles promoted fibroblast adhesion while in vivo investigations with histology confirmed that the composites promoted connective tissue adherence and did not induce inflammation. In this manner, this study supports the further investigation of bio-based, polyurethane/hydroxyapatite composites as biocompatible scaffolds for numerous tissue engineering applications. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Recombinant Amelogenin Protein Induces Apical Closure and Pulp Regeneration in Open-apex, Nonvital Permanent Canine Teeth.

PubMed

Mounir, Maha M F; Matar, Moustafa A; Lei, Yaping; Snead, Malcolm L

2016-03-01

Recombinant DNA-produced amelogenin protein was compared with calcium hydroxide in a study of immature apex closure conducted in 24 young mongrel dogs. Root canals of maxillary and mandibular right premolars (n = 240) were instrumented and left open for 14 days. Canals were cleansed, irrigated, and split equally for treatment with recombinant mouse amelogenin (n = 120) or calcium hydroxide (n = 120). After 1, 3, and 6 months, the animals were sacrificed and the treated teeth recovered for histologic assessment and immunodetection of protein markers associated with odontogenic cells. After 1 month, amelogenin-treated canals revealed calcified tissue formed at the apical foramen and a pulp chamber containing soft connective tissue and hard tissue; amelogenin-treated canals assessed after 3- and 6-month intervals further included apical tissue functionally attached to bone by a periodontal ligament. In contrast, calcified apical tissue was poorly formed in the calcium hydroxide group, and soft connective tissue within the pulp chamber was not observed. The findings from this experimental strategy suggest recombinant amelogenin protein can signal cells to enhance apex formation in nonvital immature teeth and promote soft connective tissue regeneration. Copyright © 2016 American Association of Endodontists. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Morphological Evaluation of Soft Tissue Augmentation Using Porous Poly-DL-Lactic Acid With Straight Holes.

PubMed

Ken, Yukawa; Noriko, Tachikawa; Furuichi, Akiko; Shohei, Kasugai

2016-12-01

This study investigated the biological reaction to porous poly-DL-lactic acid (PDLLA) scaffolds with holes for soft tissue augmentation. The control group was porous PDLLA with a diameter of 5.0 mm and a height of 2.0 mm. For the 2 test groups, 7 holes were drilled from the upper to the lower base of the scaffolds; the holes had diameters of 0.5 and 1.0 mm. A scaffold was placed in the periosteum of the cranium. The height and molecular weight (Mw) of the scaffolds were measured at 4 and 8 weeks. Hematoxylin and eosin staining was used to measure the connective tissue and blood vessel areas. All groups had similar scaffold heights, but the Mw decreased significantly over time. There were significant differences in the connective tissue and blood vessel areas among the control, 0.5-mm, and 1.0-mm groups at the same time point. The soft tissue was increased by drilling holes in the scaffolds. Porous poly-DL-lactic acid (PDLLA) contributed favorable prognosis for soft tissue. A wider hole was associated with increased connective tissue and blood vessel areas. The scaffold height and Mw were not impacted by size of the holes.

Treatment of chronic desquamative gingivitis using tissue-engineered human cultured gingival epithelial sheets: a case report.

PubMed

Okuda, Kazuhiro; Momose, Manabu; Murata, Masashi; Saito, Yoshinori; lnoie, Masukazu; Shinohara, Chikara; Wolff, Larry F; Yoshie, Hiromasa

2004-04-01

Human cultured gingival epithelial sheets were used as an autologous grafting material for regenerating gingival tissue in the maxillary left and mandibular right quadrants of a patient with chronic desquamative gingivitis. Six months post-surgery in both treated areas, there were gains in keratinized gingiva and no signs of gingival inflammation compared to presurgery. In the maxillary left quadrant, preoperative histopathologic findings revealed the epithelium was separated from the connective tissue and inflammatory cells were extensive. After grafting with the gingival epithelial sheets, inflammatory cells were decreased and separation between epithelium and connective tissue was not observed. The human cultured gingival epithelial sheets fabricated using tissue engineering technology showed significant promise for gingival augmentation in periodontal therapy.

Morphogenetic events in the perinodal connective tissue in a metastatic cancer model.

PubMed

Conti, G; Minicozzi, A; Merigo, F; Marzola, P; Osculati, F; Cordiano, C; Sbarbati, A

2013-02-01

The modifications of connective tissue surrounding metastatic lymph nodes in a murine model of rectal cancer are described. Athymic nude mice (n=36) were inoculated with 10×10(5) ht-29 cancer cells into the submucosal layer of the rectum. Control mice (n=5) were treated with a sterile buffer. Tumor and the involved lymph nodes were visualized in vivo by magnetic resonance imaging at 1 to 4 weeks after cell injection. After the sacrifice, the excised samples were processed for histology. After one week from cell injection all treated animals developed rectal cancer. Since the first week, neoplastic cells were visible in the nodes. In the surrounding connective tissue, the diameter of the adipocytes was reduced and a mesenchymal-like pattern with stellate cells embedded in an oedematous environment was visible. Since the second week, in the perinodal connective an enlargement of the stroma was present. The tissue was organized in cords and areas with extracellular accumulation of lipids were found. At the fourth week, we observed an enlargement of multilocular areas and lobules of elongated elements almost devoid of lipid droplets. In control animals, in absence of neoplastic masses, pelvic nodes were surrounded by a typical connective tissue characterized by unilocular adipocytes with groups of multilocular adipocytes. We have developed a model of rectal cancer with nodal metastases. Using this model, the work demonstrates that around secondary lesions, the morphogenetic events follow a standard evolution characterized by an early phase with lipolysis and mesenchymalization and later phases with a brown-like phenotype acquisition. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier SAS.

Early postnatal feed restriction reduces liver connective tissue levels and affects H3K9 acetylation state of regulated genes associated with protein metabolism in low birth weight pigs.

PubMed

Nebendahl, Constance; Görs, Solvig; Albrecht, Elke; Krüger, Ricarda; Martens, Karen; Giller, Katrin; Hammon, Harald M; Rimbach, Gerald; Metges, Cornelia C

2016-03-01

Intrauterine growth retardation is associated with metabolic consequences in adulthood. Since our previous data indicate birth weight-dependent effects of feed restriction (R) on protein degradation processes in the liver, it should be investigated whether effects on connective tissue turnover are obvious and could be explained by global changes of histone H3K9me3 and H3K9ac states in regulated genes. For this purpose, female littermate pigs with low (U) or normal (N) birth weight were subjected to 3-week R (60% of ad libitum fed controls) with subsequent refeeding (REF) for further 5 weeks. The 3-week R-period induced a significant reduction of connective tissue area by 43% in the liver of U animals at 98 d of age, which was not found in age-matched N animals. Of note, after REF at 131 d of age, in previously feed-restricted U animals (UR), the percentage of mean connective tissue was only 53% of ad libitum fed controls (UK), indicating a persistent effect. In U animals, R induced H3K9 acetylation of regulated genes (e.g. XBP1, ERLEC1, GALNT2, PTRH2), which were inter alia associated with protein metabolism. In contrast, REF was mostly accompanied by deacetylation in U and N animals. Thus, our epigenetic data may give a first explanation for the observed birth weight-dependent differences in this connective tissue phenotype. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Long palatal connective tissue rolled pedicle graft with demineralized freeze-dried bone allograft plus platelet-rich fibrin combination: A novel technique for ridge augmentation - Three case reports

PubMed Central

Reddy, Pathakota Krishnajaneya; Bolla, Vijayalakshmi; Koppolu, Pradeep; Srujan, Peruka

2015-01-01

Replacement of missing maxillary anterior tooth with localized residual alveolar ridge defect is challenging, considering the high esthetic demand. Various soft and hard tissue procedures were proposed to correct alveolar ridge deformities. Novel techniques have evolved in treating these ridge defects to improve function and esthetics. In the present case reports, a novel technique using long palatal connective tissue rolled pedicle graft with demineralized freeze-dried bone allografts (DFDBAs) plus Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) combination was proposed to correct the Class III localized anterior maxillary anterior alveolar ridge defect. The present technique resulted in predictable ridge augmentation, which can be attributed to the soft and hard tissue augmentation with a connective tissue pedicle and DFDBA plus PRF combination. This technique suggests a variation in roll technique with DFDBA plus PRF and appears to promise in gaining predictable volume in the residual ridge defect and can be considered for the treatment of moderate to severe maxillary anterior ridge defects. PMID:26015679

Foreign Body in the Oral Cavity Mimicking a Benign Connective Tissue Tumor

PubMed Central

Ram, Saravanan; Sedghizadeh, Parish P.

2013-01-01

Foreign bodies may be embedded in the oral cavity either by traumatic injury or iatrogenically. The commonly encountered iatrogenic foreign bodies are restorative materials like amalgam, obturation materials, broken instruments, needles, and impression materials. This paper describes an asymptomatic presentation of a foreign body in the oral mucosa which clinically appeared like a benign connective tissue tumor. PMID:23634307

Foreign body in the oral cavity mimicking a benign connective tissue tumor.

PubMed

Puliyel, Divya; Balouch, Amir; Ram, Saravanan; Sedghizadeh, Parish P

2013-01-01

Foreign bodies may be embedded in the oral cavity either by traumatic injury or iatrogenically. The commonly encountered iatrogenic foreign bodies are restorative materials like amalgam, obturation materials, broken instruments, needles, and impression materials. This paper describes an asymptomatic presentation of a foreign body in the oral mucosa which clinically appeared like a benign connective tissue tumor.

Conformal, wearable, thin microwave antenna for sub-skin and skin surface monitoring

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

Converse, Mark C.; Chang, John T.; Duoss, Eric B.

A wearable antenna is operably positioned on a wearer's skin and is operably connected the wearer's tissue. A first antenna matched to the wearer's tissue is operably positioned on the wearer's skin. A second antenna matched to the air is operably positioned on the wearer's skin. Transmission lines connect the first antenna and the second antenna.

Fetal programming of fat and collagen in porcine skeletal muscles

PubMed Central

Karunaratne, JF; Ashton, CJ; Stickland, NC

2005-01-01

Connective tissue plays a key role in the scaffolding and development of skeletal muscle. Pilot studies carried out in our laboratory have shown that the smallest porcine littermate has a higher content of connective tissue within skeletal muscle compared with its largest littermate. The present study investigated the prenatal development of intralitter variation in terms of collagen content within connective tissue and intramuscular fat of the M. semitendinosus. Twenty-three pairs of porcine fetuses from a Large White–Landrace origin were used aged from 36 to 86 days of gestation. The largest and smallest littermates were chosen by weight and the M. semitendinosus was removed from each. Complete transverse muscle sections were stained with Oil Red O (detection of lipids) and immunocytochemistry was performed using an antibody to collagen I. Slides were analysed and paired t-Tests revealed the smallest littermate contained a significantly higher proportion of fat deposits and collagen I content compared with the largest littermate. Recent postnatal studies showing elevated levels of intramuscular lipids and low scores for meat tenderness in the smallest littermate corroborate our investigations. It can be concluded that the differences seen in connective tissue elements have a fetal origin that may continue postnatally. PMID:16367803

A cytogenetic analysis of 2 cases of phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor of mixed connective tissue type.

PubMed

Graham, Rondell P; Hodge, Jennelle C; Folpe, Andrew L; Oliveira, Andre M; Meyer, Kevin J; Jenkins, Robert B; Sim, Franklin H; Sukov, William R

2012-08-01

Phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor of mixed connective tissue type is a rare, histologically distinctive mesenchymal neoplasm associated with tumor-induced osteomalacia resulting from production of the phosphaturic hormone fibroblast growth factor 23. Because of its rarity, specific genetic alterations that contribute to the pathogenesis of these tumors have yet to be elucidated. Herein, we report the abnormal karyotypes from 2 cases of confirmed phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor of mixed connective tissue type. G-banded analysis demonstrated the first tumor to have a karyotype of 46,Y,t(X;3;14)(q13;p25;q21)[15]/46XY[5], and the second tumor to have a karyotype of 46, XY,add(2)(q31),add(4)(q31.1)[2]/92,slx2[3]/46,sl,der(2)t(2;4)(q14.2;p14),der(4)t(2;4)(q14.2;p14),add(4)(q31.1)[10]/46,sdl,add(13)(q34)[4]/92,sdl2x2[1]. These represent what is, to our knowledge, the first examples of abnormal karyotypes obtained from phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor of mixed connective tissue type. Copyright © 2012 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

UVA/UVA1 phototherapy and PUVA photochemotherapy in connective tissue diseases and related disorders: a research based review

PubMed Central

Breuckmann, Frank; Gambichler, Thilo; Altmeyer, Peter; Kreuter, Alexander

2004-01-01

Background Broad-band UVA, long-wave UVA1 and PUVA treatment have been described as an alternative/adjunct therapeutic option in a number of inflammatory and malignant skin diseases. Nevertheless, controlled studies investigating the efficacy of UVA irradiation in connective tissue diseases and related disorders are rare. Methods Searching the PubMed database the current article systematically reviews established and innovative therapeutic approaches of broad-band UVA irradiation, UVA1 phototherapy and PUVA photochemotherapy in a variety of different connective tissue disorders. Results Potential pathways include immunomodulation of inflammation, induction of collagenases and initiation of apoptosis. Even though holding the risk of carcinogenesis, photoaging or UV-induced exacerbation, UVA phototherapy seems to exhibit a tolerable risk/benefit ratio at least in systemic sclerosis, localized scleroderma, extragenital lichen sclerosus et atrophicus, sclerodermoid graft-versus-host disease, lupus erythematosus and a number of sclerotic rarities. Conclusions Based on the data retrieved from the literature, therapeutic UVA exposure seems to be effective in connective tissue diseases and related disorders. However, more controlled investigations are needed in order to establish a clear-cut catalogue of indications. PMID:15380024

Pathological changes in the subsynovial connective tissue increase with self-reported carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.

PubMed

Tat, Jimmy; Wilson, Katherine E; Keir, Peter J

2015-05-01

Fibrosis and thickening of the subysnovial connective tissue are the most common pathological findings in carpal tunnel syndrome. The relationship between subsynovial connective tissue characteristics and self-reported carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms was assessed. Symptoms were characterized using the Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire and Katz hand diagram in twenty-two participants (11 with symptoms, 11 with no symptoms). Using ultrasound, the thickness of the subsynovial connective tissue was measured using a thickness ratio (subsynovial thickness/tendon thickness) and gliding function was assessed using a shear strain index ((Displacement(tendon)-Displacement(subsynovial))/Displacement(tendon)x 100). For gliding function, participants performed 10 repeated flexion-extension cycles of the middle finger at a rate of one cycle per second. Participants with symptoms had a 38.5% greater thickness ratio and 39.2% greater shear strain index compared to participants without symptoms (p<0.05). Ultrasound detected differences the SSCT in symptomatic group that was characterized by low self-reported symptom severity scores. This study found ultrasound useful for measuring structural and functional changes in the SSCT that could provide insight in the early pathophysiology associated with carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Periodontal manifestations of systemic diseases and developmental and acquired conditions: Consensus report of workgroup 3 of the 2017 World Workshop on the Classification of Periodontal and Peri-Implant Diseases and Conditions.

PubMed

Jepsen, Søren; Caton, Jack G; Albandar, Jasim M; Bissada, Nabil F; Bouchard, Philippe; Cortellini, Pierpaolo; Demirel, Korkud; de Sanctis, Massimo; Ercoli, Carlo; Fan, Jingyuan; Geurs, Nicolaas C; Hughes, Francis J; Jin, Lijian; Kantarci, Alpdogan; Lalla, Evanthia; Madianos, Phoebus N; Matthews, Debora; McGuire, Michael K; Mills, Michael P; Preshaw, Philip M; Reynolds, Mark A; Sculean, Anton; Susin, Cristiano; West, Nicola X; Yamazaki, Kazuhisa

2018-06-01

A variety of systemic diseases and conditions can affect the course of periodontitis or have a negative impact on the periodontal attachment apparatus. Gingival recessions are highly prevalent and often associated with hypersensitivity, the development of caries and non-carious cervical lesions on the exposed root surface and impaired esthetics. Occlusal forces can result in injury of teeth and periodontal attachment apparatus. Several developmental or acquired conditions associated with teeth or prostheses may predispose to diseases of the periodontium. The aim of this working group was to review and update the 1999 classification with regard to these diseases and conditions, and to develop case definitions and diagnostic considerations. Discussions were informed by four reviews on 1) periodontal manifestions of systemic diseases and conditions; 2) mucogingival conditions around natural teeth; 3) traumatic occlusal forces and occlusal trauma; and 4) dental prostheses and tooth related factors. This consensus report is based on the results of these reviews and on expert opinion of the participants. Key findings included the following: 1) there are mainly rare systemic conditions (such as Papillon-Lefevre Syndrome, leucocyte adhesion deficiency, and others) with a major effect on the course of periodontitis and more common conditions (such as diabetes mellitus) with variable effects, as well as conditions affecting the periodontal apparatus independently of dental plaque biofilm-induced inflammation (such as neoplastic diseases); 2) diabetes-associated periodontitis should not be regarded as a distinct diagnosis, but diabetes should be recognized as an important modifying factor and included in a clinical diagnosis of periodontitis as a descriptor; 3) likewise, tobacco smoking - now considered a dependence to nicotine and a chronic relapsing medical disorder with major adverse effects on the periodontal supporting tissues - is an important modifier to be included in a clinical diagnosis of periodontitis as a descriptor; 4) the importance of the gingival phenotype, encompassing gingival thickness and width in the context of mucogingival conditions, is recognized and a novel classification for gingival recessions is introduced; 5) there is no evidence that traumatic occlusal forces lead to periodontal attachment loss, non-carious cervical lesions, or gingival recessions; 6) traumatic occlusal forces lead to adaptive mobility in teeth with normal support, whereas they lead to progressive mobility in teeth with reduced support, usually requiring splinting; 7) the term biologic width is replaced by supracrestal tissue attachment consisting of junctional epithelium and supracrestal connective tissue; 8) infringement of restorative margins within the supracrestal connective tissue attachment is associated with inflammation and/or loss of periodontal supporting tissue. However, it is not evident whether the negative effects on the periodontium are caused by dental plaque biofilm, trauma, toxicity of dental materials or a combination of these factors; 9) tooth anatomical factors are related to dental plaque biofilm-induced gingival inflammation and loss of periodontal supporting tissues. An updated classification of the periodontal manifestations and conditions affecting the course of periodontitis and the periodontal attachment apparatus, as well as of developmental and acquired conditions, is introduced. Case definitions and diagnostic considerations are also presented. © 2018 American Academy of Periodontology and European Federation of Periodontology.

Elevated expression in situ of selectin and immunoglobulin superfamily type adhesion molecules in retroocular connective tissues from patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy.

PubMed Central

Heufelder, A E; Bahn, R S

1993-01-01

Activation of certain adhesion molecules within vascular endothelium and the surrounding extravascular space is a critical event in the recruitment and targeting of an inflammatory response or autoimmune attack to a particular tissue site. We have recently demonstrated that the adhesion of lymphocytes to cultured retroocular fibroblasts obtained from patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO) is mediated predominantly by the interaction of lymphocyte function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1), expressed on lymphocytes, with intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1), expressed by these cells following exposure to interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), IL-1 alpha or purified thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins. We now report the expression and localization in situ of several adhesion molecules, ICAM-1, endothelial leucocyte adhesion molecule-1 (ELAM-1), vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), and LFA-3 in retroocular tissues derived from patients with severe GO (n = 4) and normal individuals (n = 3). Serial cryostat sections of tissue specimens were processed for immunoperoxidase staining using various MoAbs against ICAM-1, ELAM-1, VCAM-1 and LFA-3. In addition, consecutive sections were stained with MoAbs against LFA-1, CD45RO (UCHL-1)DR-human leucocyte antigen (HLA-DR), CD11b/CD18 (Mac-1), and CD11c/CD18 (p150,95). In GO-retroocular tissues, strong immunoreactivity for ICAM-1 and LFA-3 was detected in blood vessels (> 90%), in perimysial fibroblasts surrounding extraocular muscle fibres, and in connective tissue distinct from extraocular muscle. No ICAM-1 or LFA-3 immunoreactivity was present in extraocular muscle cells themselves. ICAM-1 and LFA-3 immunoreactivity in normal tissues was minimal or absent both in connective and muscle tissues. Vascular endothelium was strongly positive for ELAM-1 and VCAM-1 in GO-retroocular tissues, while VCAM-1 immunoreactivity was minimal (< 5% of blood vessels) and ELAM-1 immunoreactivity was generally absent in normal retroocular tissue. LFA-1-expressing, activated mononuclear cells and memory T lymphocytes (CD3+/CD45RO+) were only detected in GO-retrocular tissues, and were mainly localized around blood vessels and in areas of ICAM-1-expressing connective and perimysial tissue. HLA-DR expression was restricted to GO-tissue specimens, with strong immunoreactivity detected in blood vessels, macrophages and connective tissue and perimysial fibroblasts. No HLA-DR was detectable in extraocular muscle cells. In conclusion, infiltration of the orbit in GO by mononuclear cells, and their targeting within the orbit, may depend upon the coordinate expression of certain adhesion and MHC molecules.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS) Images Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 Fig. 6 Fig. 7 PMID:7680294

Multifidus Muscle Changes After Back Injury Are Characterized by Structural Remodeling of Muscle, Adipose and Connective Tissue, but Not Muscle Atrophy: Molecular and Morphological Evidence.

PubMed

Hodges, Paul W; James, Gregory; Blomster, Linda; Hall, Leanne; Schmid, Annina; Shu, Cindy; Little, Chris; Melrose, James

2015-07-15

Longitudinal case-controlled animal study. To investigate putative cellular mechanisms to explain structural changes in muscle and adipose and connective tissues of the back muscles after intervertebral disc (IVD) injury. Structural back muscle changes are ubiquitous with back pain/injury and considered relevant for outcome, but their exact nature, time course, and cellular mechanisms remain elusive. We used an animal model that produces phenotypic back muscle changes after IVD injury to study these issues at the cellular/molecular level. Multifidus muscle was harvested from both sides of the spine at L1-L2 and L3-L4 IVDs in 27 castrated male sheep at 3 (n = 10) or 6 (n = 17) months after a surgical anterolateral IVD injury at both levels. Ten control sheep underwent no surgery (3 mo, n = 4; 6 mo, n = 6). Tissue was harvested at L4 for histological analysis of cross-sectional area of muscle and adipose and connective tissue (whole muscle), plus immunohistochemistry to identify proportion and cross-sectional area of individual muscle fiber types in the deepest fascicle. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction measured gene expression of typical cytokines/signaling molecules at L2. Contrary to predictions, there was no multifidus muscle atrophy (whole muscle or individual fiber). There was increased adipose and connective tissue (fibrotic proliferation) cross-sectional area and slow-to-fast muscle fiber transition at 6 but not 3 months. Within the multifidus muscle, increases in the expression of several cytokines (tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-1β) and molecules that signal trophic/atrophic processes for the 3 tissue types (e.g., growth factor pathway [IGF-1, PI3k, Akt1, mTOR], potent tissue modifiers [calcineurin, PCG-1α, and myostatin]) were present. This study provides cellular evidence that refutes the presence of multifidus muscle atrophy accompanying IVD degeneration at this intermediate time point. Instead, adipose/connective tissue increased in parallel with the expression of the genes that provide putative mechanisms for multifidus structural remodeling. This provides novel targets for pharmacological and physical interventions. N/A.

Losartan Attenuates Degradation of Aorta and Lung Tissue Micromechanics in a Mouse Model of Severe Marfan Syndrome

PubMed Central

Lee, Jia-Jye; Galatioto, Josephine; Rao, Satish; Ramirez, Francesco; Costa, Kevin D.

2018-01-01

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant disease of the connective tissue due to mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene (FBN1). This study aimed at characterizing microelastic properties of the ascending aorta wall and lung parenchyma tissues from wild type (WT) and age-matched Fbn1 hypomorphic mice (Fbn1mgR/mgR mice) to identify tissue-specific biomechanical effects of aging and disease in MFS. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was used to indent lung parenchyma and aortic wall tissues, using Hybrid Eshelby Decomposition analysis to extract layer-specific properties of the intima and media. The intima stiffened with age and was not different between WT and Fbn1mgR/mgR tissues, whereas the media layer of mutant aortas showed progressive structural and mechanical degradation with a modulus that was 50% softer than WT by 3.5 months of age. Similarly, mutant mice displayed progressive structural and mechanical deterioration of lung tissue, which was over 85% softer than WT by 3.5 months of age. Chronic treatment with the angiotensin type I receptor antagonist, losartan, attenuated the aorta and lung tissue degradation, resulting in structural and mechanical properties not significantly different from age-matched WT controls. By revealing micromechanical softening of elastin-rich aorta and lung tissues with disease progression in fibrillin-1 deficient mice, our findings support the use of losartan as a prophylactic treatment that may abrogate the life-threatening symptoms of MFS. PMID:27090893

Biomimetic heterogenous elastic tissue development.

PubMed

Tsai, Kai Jen; Dixon, Simon; Hale, Luke Richard; Darbyshire, Arnold; Martin, Daniel; de Mel, Achala

2017-01-01

There is an unmet need for artificial tissue to address current limitations with donor organs and problems with donor site morbidity. Despite the success with sophisticated tissue engineering endeavours, which employ cells as building blocks, they are limited to dedicated labs suitable for cell culture, with associated high costs and long tissue maturation times before available for clinical use. Direct 3D printing presents rapid, bespoke, acellular solutions for skull and bone repair or replacement, and can potentially address the need for elastic tissue, which is a major constituent of smooth muscle, cartilage, ligaments and connective tissue that support organs. Thermoplastic polyurethanes are one of the most versatile elastomeric polymers. Their segmented block copolymeric nature, comprising of hard and soft segments allows for an almost limitless potential to control physical properties and mechanical behaviour. Here we show direct 3D printing of biocompatible thermoplastic polyurethanes with Fused Deposition Modelling, with a view to presenting cell independent in-situ tissue substitutes. This method can expeditiously and economically produce heterogenous, biomimetic elastic tissue substitutes with controlled porosity to potentially facilitate vascularisation. The flexibility of this application is shown here with tubular constructs as exemplars. We demonstrate how these 3D printed constructs can be post-processed to incorporate bioactive molecules. This efficacious strategy, when combined with the privileges of digital healthcare, can be used to produce bespoke elastic tissue substitutes in-situ, independent of extensive cell culture and may be developed as a point-of-care therapy approach.

Losartan Attenuates Degradation of Aorta and Lung Tissue Micromechanics in a Mouse Model of Severe Marfan Syndrome.

PubMed

Lee, Jia-Jye; Galatioto, Josephine; Rao, Satish; Ramirez, Francesco; Costa, Kevin D

2016-10-01

Marfan syndrome (MFS) is an autosomal dominant disease of the connective tissue due to mutations in the fibrillin-1 gene (FBN1). This study aimed at characterizing microelastic properties of the ascending aortic wall and lung parenchyma tissues from wild type (WT) and age-matched Fbn1 hypomorphic mice (Fbn1(mgR/mgR) mice) to identify tissue-specific biomechanical effects of aging and disease in MFS. Atomic force microscopy was used to indent lung parenchyma and aortic wall tissues, using Hybrid Eshelby Decomposition analysis to extract layer-specific properties of the intima and media. The intima stiffened with age and was not different between WT and Fbn1(mgR/mgR) tissues, whereas the media layer of MFS aortas showed progressive structural and mechanical degradation with a modulus that was 50% softer than WT by 3.5 months of age. Similarly, MFS mice displayed progressive structural and mechanical deterioration of lung tissue, which was over 85% softer than WT by 3.5 months of age. Chronic treatment with the angiotensin type I receptor antagonist, losartan, attenuated the aorta and lung tissue degradation, resulting in structural and mechanical properties not significantly different from age-matched WT controls. By revealing micromechanical softening of elastin-rich aorta and lung tissues with disease progression in fibrillin-1 deficient mice, our findings support the use of losartan as a prophylactic treatment that may abrogate the life-threatening symptoms of MFS.

A New Variant of Connective Tissue Nevus with Elastorrhexis and Predilection for the Upper Chest.

PubMed

Chu, Derek H; Goldbach, Hayley; Wanat, Karolyn A; Rubin, Adam I; Yan, Albert C; Treat, James R

2015-01-01

Localized changes in cutaneous elastic tissue often manifest with flesh-colored, hypopigmented, or yellow papules, plaques, and nodules. We present five children with clinically similar cobblestone plaques composed of multiple hypopigmented, nonfollicular, pinpoint papules located unilaterally over the upper chest. All lesions first appeared at birth or during early infancy. No associated extracutaneous abnormalities have been identified. Histopathology was remarkable for many, thick elastic fibers with elastorrhexis. We believe that these cases represent a distinct and unique variant of connective tissue nevi. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Oncogenic osteomalacia associated with phosphaturic mesenchymal tumour, mixed connective tissue type of the knee.

PubMed

Szumera-Ciećkiewicz, Anna; Ptaszyński, Konrad; Pawełas, Andrzej; Rutkowski, Piotr

2009-01-01

One of the most unusual and uncommon types of osteomalacia is the oncogenic osteomalacia that is predominantly caused by a soft tissue or bone tumour, mostly by a phosphaturic mesenchymal tumour, mixed connective tissue type (PMTMCT). We report a case of a 27-year-old male presented with complaints of progressive and generalized muscle weakness, bone pains and multiple fractures. Intra-articular PMTMCT of the knee was diagnosed and surgically removed. We describe histopathological features of PMTMCT and review the most recent studies concerning this diagnostic problem.

Effects of long-duration bed rest on structural compartments of m. soleus in man

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Belozerova, I.; Shenkman, B.; Mazin, M.; Leblanc, A.; LeBlanc, A. D. (Principal Investigator)

2001-01-01

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), histomorphometry and electron microscopy of muscle demonstrate that long-term exposure to actual or simulated weightlessness (including head down bed rest) leads to decreased volume of antigravity muscles in mammals. In muscles interbundle space is occupied by the connective tissue. Rat studies show that hindlimb unloading induces muscle fiber atrophy along with increase in muscle non-fiber connective tissue compartment. Beside that, usually 20% of the muscle fiber volume is comprised by non-contractile (non-myofibrillar) compartment. The aim of the present study was to compare changes in muscle volume, and in muscle fiber size with alterations in myofibrillar apparatus, and in connective tissue compartment in human m. soleus under conditions of 120 day long head down bed rest (HDBR).

Surgical anatomy of the retroperitoneal spaces--part I: embryogenesis and anatomy.

PubMed

Mirilas, Petros; Skandalakis, John E

2009-11-01

Embryologically, the retroperitoneal (extraperitoneal) connective tissue includes three strata, which respectively form the internal fascia lining of the body wall, the renal fascia, and the covering of the gastrointestinal viscera. All organs, vessels, and nerves, that lie on the posterior abdominal wall, along with their tissues and surrounding connective and fascial planes, are collectively referred to as the retroperitoneum. The retroperitoneal space is the area of the posterior abdominal wall that is located between the parietal peritoneum and the fascia. Within the greater retroperitoneal space, there are also several small spaces, or subcompartments. Loose connective tissue and fat surround the anatomic entities, and, to a variable degree, occupy the subcompartments. The multilaminar thoracolumbar (lumbodorsal) fascia begins at the occipital area and terminates at the sacrum.

Developmental delay and connective tissue disorder in four patients sharing a common microdeletion at 6q13-14.

PubMed

Van Esch, Hilde; Rosser, Elisabeth M; Janssens, Sandra; Van Ingelghem, Ingrid; Loeys, Bart; Menten, Bjorn

2010-10-01

Interstitial deletions of the long arm of chromosome 6 are rare, and most reported cases represent large, cytogenetically detectable deletions. The implementation of array comparative genome hybridisation in the diagnostic work-up of patients presenting with congenital disorders, including developmental delay, has enabled identification of many patients with smaller chromosomal imbalances. In this report, the cases are presented of four patients with a de novo interstitial deletion of chromosome 6q13-14, resulting in a common microdeletion of 3.7 Mb. All presented with developmental delay, mild dysmorphism and signs of lax connective tissue. Interestingly, the common deleted region harbours 16 genes, of which COL12A1 is a good candidate for the connective tissue pathology.

New perspectives on rare connective tissue calcifying diseases.

PubMed

Rashdan, Nabil A; Rutsch, Frank; Kempf, Hervé; Váradi, András; Lefthériotis, Georges; MacRae, Vicky E

2016-06-01

Connective tissue calcifying diseases (CTCs) are characterized by abnormal calcium deposition in connective tissues. CTCs are caused by multiple factors including chronic diseases (Type II diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease), the use of pharmaceuticals (e.g. warfarin, glucocorticoids) and inherited rare genetic diseases such as pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE), generalized arterial calcification in infancy (GACI) and Keutel syndrome (KTLS). This review explores our current knowledge of these rare inherited CTCs, and highlights the most promising avenues for pharmaceutical intervention. Advancing our understanding of rare inherited forms of CTC is not only essential for the development of therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from these diseases, but also fundamental to delineating the mechanisms underpinning acquired chronic forms of CTC. Copyright © 2016 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.. All rights reserved.

Control of cell growth on 3D-printed cell culture platforms for tissue engineering.

PubMed

Tan, Zhikai; Liu, Tong; Zhong, Juchang; Yang, Yikun; Tan, Weihong

2017-12-01

Biocompatible tissue growth has excellent prospects for tissue engineering. These tissues are built over scaffolds, which can influence aspects such as cell adhesion, proliferation rate, morphology, and differentiation. However, the ideal 3D biological structure has not been developed yet. Here, we applied the electro-hydrodynamic jet (E-jet) 3D printing technology using poly-(lactic-co-glycolic acid, PLGA) solution to print varied culture platforms for engineered tissue structures. The effects of different parameters (electrical voltage, plotting speed, and needle sizes) on the outcome were investigated. We compared the biological compatibility of the 3D printed culture platforms with that of random fibers. Finally, we used the 3D-printed PLGA platforms to culture fibroblasts, the main cellular components of loose connective tissue. The results show that the E-jet printed platforms could guide and improve cell growth. These highly aligned fibers were able to support cellular alignment and proliferation. Cell angle was consistent with the direction of the fibers, and cells cultured on these fibers showed a much faster migration, potentially enhancing wound healing performance. Thus, the potential of this technology for 3D biological printing is large. This process can be used to grow biological scaffolds for the engineering of tissues. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 105A: 3281-3292, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Patch esophagoplasty using an in-body-tissue-engineered collagenous connective tissue membrane.

PubMed

Okuyama, Hiroomi; Umeda, Satoshi; Takama, Yuichi; Terasawa, Takeshi; Nakayama, Yasuhide

2018-02-01

Although many approaches to esophageal replacement have been investigated, these efforts have thus far only met limited success. In-body-tissue-engineered connective tissue tubes have been reported to be effective as vascular replacement grafts. The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of an In-body-tissue-engineered collagenous connective tissue membrane, "Biosheet", as a novel esophageal scaffold in a beagle model. We prepared Biosheets by embedding specially designed molds into subcutaneous pouches in beagles. After 1-2months, the molds, which were filled with ingrown connective tissues, were harvested. Rectangular-shaped Biosheets (10×20mm) were then implanted to replace defects of the same size that had been created in the cervical esophagus of the beagle. An endoscopic evaluation was performed at 4 and 12weeks after implantation. The esophagus was harvested and subjected to a histological evaluation at 4 (n=2) and 12weeks (n=2) after implantation. The animal study protocols were approved by the National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Centre Research Institute Committee (No. 16048). The Biosheets showed sufficient strength and flexibility to replace the esophagus defect. All animals survived with full oral feeding during the study period. No anastomotic leakage was observed. An endoscopic study at 4 and 12weeks after implantation revealed that the anastomotic sites and the internal surface of the Biosheets were smooth, without stenosis. A histological analysis at 4weeks after implantation demonstrated that stratified squamous epithelium was regenerated on the internal surface of the Biosheets. A histological analysis at 12weeks after implantation showed the regeneration of muscle tissue in the implanted Biosheets. The long-term results of patch esophagoplasty using Biosheets showed regeneration of stratified squamous epithelium and muscular tissues in the implanted sheets. These results suggest that Biosheets may be useful as a novel esophageal scaffold. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

An integrative computational analysis provides evidence for FBN1-associated network deregulation in trisomy 21.

PubMed

Vilardell, Mireia; Civit, Sergi; Herwig, Ralf

2013-08-15

Although approximately 50% of Down Syndrome (DS) patients have heart abnormalities, they exhibit an overprotection against cardiac abnormalities related with the connective tissue, for example a lower risk of coronary artery disease. A recent study reported a case of a person affected by DS who carried mutations in FBN1, the gene causative for a connective tissue disorder called Marfan Syndrome (MFS). The fact that the person did not have any cardiac alterations suggested compensation effects due to DS. This observation is supported by a previous DS meta-analysis at the molecular level where we have found an overall upregulation of FBN1 (which is usually downregulated in MFS). Additionally, that result was cross-validated with independent expression data from DS heart tissue. The aim of this work is to elucidate the role of FBN1 in DS and to establish a molecular link to MFS and MFS-related syndromes using a computational approach. To reach that, we conducted different analytical approaches over two DS studies (our previous meta-analysis and independent expression data from DS heart tissue) and revealed expression alterations in the FBN1 interaction network, in FBN1 co-expressed genes and FBN1-related pathways. After merging the significant results from different datasets with a Bayesian approach, we prioritized 85 genes that were able to distinguish control from DS cases. We further found evidence for several of these genes (47%), such as FBN1, DCN, and COL1A2, being dysregulated in MFS and MFS-related diseases. Consequently, we further encourage the scientific community to take into account FBN1 and its related network for the study of DS cardiovascular characteristics.

Expression of collagen and related growth factors in rat tendon and skeletal muscle in response to specific contraction types

PubMed Central

Heinemeier, K M; Olesen, J L; Haddad, F; Langberg, H; Kjaer, M; Baldwin, K M; Schjerling, P

2007-01-01

Acute exercise induces collagen synthesis in both tendon and muscle, indicating an adaptive response in the connective tissue of the muscle–tendon unit. However, the mechanisms of this adaptation, potentially involving collagen-inducing growth factors (such as transforming growth factor-β-1 (TGF-β-1)), as well as enzymes related to collagen processing, are not clear. Furthermore, possible differential effects of specific contraction types on collagen regulation have not been investigated. Female Sprague–Dawley rats were subjected to 4 days of concentric, eccentric or isometric training (n = 7–9 per group) of the medial gastrocnemius, by stimulation of the sciatic nerve. RNA was extracted from medial gastrocnemius and Achilles tendon tissue 24 h after the last training bout, and mRNA levels for collagens I and III, TGF-β-1, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), lysyl oxidase (LOX), metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and -9) and their inhibitors (TIMP-1 and 2) were measured by Northern blotting and/or real-time PCR. In tendon, expression of TGF-β-1 and collagens I and III (but not CTGF) increased in response to all types of training. Similarly, enzymes/factors involved in collagen processing were induced in tendon, especially LOX (up to 37-fold), which could indicate a loading-induced increase in cross-linking of tendon collagen. In skeletal muscle, a similar regulation of gene expression was observed, but in contrast to the tendon response, the effect of eccentric training was significantly greater than the effect of concentric training on the expression of several transcripts. In conclusion, the study supports an involvement of TGF-β-1 in loading-induced collagen synthesis in the muscle–tendon unit and importantly, it indicates that muscle tissue is more sensitive than tendon to the specific mechanical stimulus. PMID:17540706

Expression of collagen and related growth factors in rat tendon and skeletal muscle in response to specific contraction types.

PubMed

Heinemeier, K M; Olesen, J L; Haddad, F; Langberg, H; Kjaer, M; Baldwin, K M; Schjerling, P

2007-08-01

Acute exercise induces collagen synthesis in both tendon and muscle, indicating an adaptive response in the connective tissue of the muscle-tendon unit. However, the mechanisms of this adaptation, potentially involving collagen-inducing growth factors (such as transforming growth factor-beta-1 (TGF-beta-1)), as well as enzymes related to collagen processing, are not clear. Furthermore, possible differential effects of specific contraction types on collagen regulation have not been investigated. Female Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to 4 days of concentric, eccentric or isometric training (n = 7-9 per group) of the medial gastrocnemius, by stimulation of the sciatic nerve. RNA was extracted from medial gastrocnemius and Achilles tendon tissue 24 h after the last training bout, and mRNA levels for collagens I and III, TGF-beta-1, connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), lysyl oxidase (LOX), metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and -9) and their inhibitors (TIMP-1 and 2) were measured by Northern blotting and/or real-time PCR. In tendon, expression of TGF-beta-1 and collagens I and III (but not CTGF) increased in response to all types of training. Similarly, enzymes/factors involved in collagen processing were induced in tendon, especially LOX (up to 37-fold), which could indicate a loading-induced increase in cross-linking of tendon collagen. In skeletal muscle, a similar regulation of gene expression was observed, but in contrast to the tendon response, the effect of eccentric training was significantly greater than the effect of concentric training on the expression of several transcripts. In conclusion, the study supports an involvement of TGF-beta-1 in loading-induced collagen synthesis in the muscle-tendon unit and importantly, it indicates that muscle tissue is more sensitive than tendon to the specific mechanical stimulus.

Polymer fiber-based models of connective tissue repair and healing.

PubMed

Lee, Nancy M; Erisken, Cevat; Iskratsch, Thomas; Sheetz, Michael; Levine, William N; Lu, Helen H

2017-01-01

Physiologically relevant models of wound healing are essential for understanding the biology of connective tissue repair and healing. They can also be used to identify key cellular processes and matrix characteristics critical for the design of soft tissue grafts. Modeling the various stages of repair post tendon injury, polymer meshes of varying fiber diameter (nano-1 (390 nm) < nano-2 (740 nm) < micro (1420 nm)) were produced. Alignment was also introduced in the nano-2 group to model matrix undergoing biological healing rather than scar formation. The response of human tendon fibroblasts on these model substrates were evaluated over time as a function of fiber diameter and alignment. It was observed that the repair models of unaligned nanoscale fibers enhanced cell growth and collagen synthesis, while these outcomes were significantly reduced in the mature repair model consisting of unaligned micron-sized fibers. Organization of paxillin and actin on unaligned meshes was enhanced on micro- compared to nano-sized fibers, while the expression and activity of RhoA and Rac1 were greater on nanofibers. In contrast, aligned nanofibers promoted early cell organization, while reducing excessive cell growth and collagen production in the long term. These results show that the early-stage repair model of unaligned nanoscale fibers elicits a response characteristic of the proliferative phase of wound repair, while the more mature model consisting of unaligned micron-sized fibers is more representative of the remodeling phase by supporting cell organization while suppressing growth and biosynthesis. Interestingly, introduction of fiber alignment in the nanofiber model alters fibroblast response from repair to healing, implicating matrix alignment as a critical design factor for circumventing scar formation and promoting biological healing of soft tissue injuries. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Biomechanical paradigm and interpretation of female pelvic floor conditions before a treatment

PubMed Central

Lucente, Vincent; van Raalte, Heather; Murphy, Miles; Egorov, Vladimir

2017-01-01

Background Further progress in restoring a woman’s health may be possible if a patient with a damaged pelvic floor could undergo medical imaging and biomechanical diagnostic tests. The results of such tests could contribute to the analysis of multiple treatment options and suggest the optimal one for that patient. Aim To develop a new approach for the biomechanical characterization of vaginal conditions, muscles, and connective tissues in the female pelvic floor. Methods Vaginal tactile imaging (VTI) allows biomechanical assessment of the soft tissue along the entire length of the anterior, posterior, and lateral vaginal walls at rest, with manually applied deflection pressures and with muscle contraction, muscle relaxation, and Valsalva maneuver. VTI allows a large body of measurements to evaluate individual variations in tissue elasticity, support defects, as well as pelvic muscle function. Presuming that 1) the female pelvic floor organs are suspended by ligaments against which muscles contract to open or close the outlets and 2) damaged ligaments weaken the support and may reduce the force of muscle contraction, we made an attempt to characterize multiple pelvic floor structures from VTI data. Results All of the 138 women enrolled in the study were successfully examined with the VTI. The study subjects have had normal pelvic support or pelvic organ prolapse (stages I–IV). The average age of this group of subjects was 60±15 years. We transposed a set of 31 VTI parameters into a quantitative characterization of pelvic muscles and ligamentous structures. Interpretation of the acquired VTI data for normal pelvic floor support and prolapse conditions is proposed based on biomechanical assessment of the functional anatomy. Conclusion Vaginal tactile imaging allows biomechanical characterization of female pelvic floor structures and tissues in vivo, which may help to optimize treatment of the diseased conditions such as prolapse, incontinence, atrophy, and some forms of pelvic pain. PMID:28831274

Carbon dioxide laser for de-epithelialization of periodontal flaps.

PubMed

Centty, I G; Blank, L W; Levy, B A; Romberg, E; Barnes, D M

1997-08-01

Regeneration of mineralized and soft connective tissue components of the attachment apparatus is the main goal in the treatment of periodontal diseases. Often, apical migration of epithelium (long junctional epithelium) effectively prevents the formation of bone and connective tissue attachment after periodontal surgery. The purpose of the present study was to compare conventional periodontal surgery combined with carbon dioxide laser and conventional periodontal surgery alone with respect to epithelial elimination and degree of necrosis of mucoperiosteal flaps. After signing a consent form, five patients with at least two comparable bilateral periodontal defects needing pocket elimination surgery participated in this study. The investigators randomly divided each side into test and control sites. Each patient received oral hygiene instruction and initial therapy prior to surgery. At surgery, the test site received a sulcular incision and carbon dioxide laser de-epithelialization of the outer and inner aspects of the flap. The control group received reverse bevel incision only. The surgeon performed open flap debridement on all teeth. At the time of surgery, the surgeon did a biopsy of each site and submitted specimens for histologic evaluation. A matched pairs t-test was used to analyze the data. The results show significant differences between the carbon dioxide laser and reverse bevel incision with respect to sulcular (P < or = 0.025) and gingival (external) (P < or = 0.01) flap surface epithelial elimination and tissue necrosis (P < or = 0.005). These results should be replicated with a larger number of subjects. The carbon dioxide laser eliminated sulcular and gingival (external) epithelium without disturbing underlying connective tissue. This finding supports the concept that the carbon dioxide wavelength has little or no effect on tissues beyond the target. However, neither laser nor blade eliminated all the epithelium. Researchers observed chronic inflammation in the control and test sites, with a predominance of plasma cells. Lining the sulcular and gingival (external) lased areas, investigators found coagulation necrosis covered by fibrin and coagulated blood. The laser appears to effectively remove epithelium at the time of surgery; however, future long-term, well-controlled quantitative histologic studies are needed to evaluate the effect of repeated carbon dioxide laser de-epithelialization of the gingival (external) surface of mucoperiosteal flaps at intervals during the healing period.

Clinical Characteristics of Connective Tissue Nevi in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex With Special Emphasis on Shagreen Patches.

PubMed

Bongiorno, Michelle A; Nathan, Neera; Oyerinde, Oyetewa; Wang, Ji-An; Lee, Chyi-Chia Richard; Brown, G Thomas; Moss, Joel; Darling, Thomas N

2017-07-01

Patients with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) frequently develop collagenous connective tissue nevi. The prototypical lesion is a large shagreen patch located on the lower back, but some patients only manifest small collagenomas or have lesions elsewhere on the body. The ability to recognize these variable presentations can be important for the diagnosis of TSC. To describe the clinical characteristics of connective tissue nevi on the trunk and extremities of patients with tuberous sclerosis complex. A retrospective analysis of patient medical records and skin photography was performed; 104 adult patients with TSC were enrolled in an observational cohort study that was enriched for those with pulmonary lymphangioleiomyomatosis, and was therefore composed mostly of women (99 women, 5 men). All patients included were examined at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in Bethesda, Maryland, from 1998 to 2013. Connective tissue nevi were categorized per anatomic location and size. Lesions less than 1 cm in diameter were termed collagenomas. Shagreen patches were characterized as small (1 to <4 cm), medium (4 to <8 cm), and large (≥8 cm). Frequency, anatomic location, size, and histological appearance of connective tissue nevi in patients with TSC. Overall, 58 of 104 patients (median [range] age, 42 [19-70] years) with TSC (56%) had at least 1 connective tissue nevus on the trunk or thighs; of these, 28 of 58 patients (48%) had a solitary lesion, and 30 of 58 patients (52%) had 2 or more lesions. Overall, 120 lesions from 55 patients were classified by size; 46 lesions (38%) were collagenomas; 39 lesions (32%) were small shagreen patches; 21 lesions (18%), medium shagreen patches; and 14 lesions (12%), large shagreen patches. The distribution of lesions was 9% (n = 11), upper back; 29% (n = 35), middle back; 51% (n = 61), lower back; and 11% (n = 13), other locations. All 26 shagreen patches that were analyzed histopathologically had coarse collagen fibers and 24 of 26 stained with Miller elastic stain had decreased elastic fibers. On immunoblot analysis, fibroblasts grown from shagreen patches expressed higher levels of phosphorylated ribosomal protein S6 than paired fibroblasts from normal-appearing skin. Tuberous sclerosis complex-related connective tissue nevi are not limited to the lower back, and occasionally present on the central or upper back, buttocks, or thighs. Elastic fibers are typically decreased. Recognition of these variable presentations can be important for TSC diagnosis.

A biomechanical model of agonist-initiated contraction in the asthmatic airway.

PubMed

Brook, B S; Peel, S E; Hall, I P; Politi, A Z; Sneyd, J; Bai, Y; Sanderson, M J; Jensen, O E

2010-01-31

This paper presents a modelling framework in which the local stress environment of airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells may be predicted and cellular responses to local stress may be investigated. We consider an elastic axisymmetric model of a layer of connective tissue and circumferential ASM fibres embedded in parenchymal tissue and model the active contractile force generated by ASM via a stress acting along the fibres. A constitutive law is proposed that accounts for active and passive material properties as well as the proportion of muscle to connective tissue. The model predicts significantly different contractile responses depending on the proportion of muscle to connective tissue in the remodelled airway. We find that radial and hoop-stress distributions in remodelled muscle layers are highly heterogenous with distinct regions of compression and tension. Such patterns of stress are likely to have important implications, from a mechano-transduction perspective, on contractility, short-term cytoskeletal adaptation and long-term airway remodelling in asthma. Copyright 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Neuroinflammatory Mechanisms of Connective Tissue Fibrosis: Targeting Neurogenic and Mast Cell Contributions

PubMed Central

Monument, Michael J.; Hart, David A.; Salo, Paul T.; Befus, A. Dean; Hildebrand, Kevin A.

2015-01-01

Significance: The pathogenesis of fibrogenic wound and connective tissue healing is complex and incompletely understood. Common observations across a vast array of human and animal models of fibroproliferative conditions suggest neuroinflammatory mechanisms are important upstream fibrogenic events. Recent Advances: As detailed in this review, mast cell hyperplasia is a common observation in fibrotic tissue. Recent investigations in human and preclinical models of hypertrophic wound healing and post-traumatic joint fibrosis provides evidence that fibrogenesis is governed by a maladaptive neuropeptide-mast cell-myofibroblast signaling pathway. Critical Issues: The blockade and manipulation of these factors is providing promising evidence that if timed correctly, the fibrogenic process can be appropriately regulated. Clinically, abnormal fibrogenic healing responses are not ubiquitous to all patients and the identification of those at-risk remains an area of priority. Future Directions: Ultimately, an integrated appreciation of the common pathobiology shared by many fibrogenic connective tissue conditions may provide a scientific framework to facilitate the development of novel antifibrotic prevention and treatment strategies. PMID:25785237

Constructing kidney-like tissues from cells based on programs for organ development: toward a method of in vitro tissue engineering of the kidney.

PubMed

Rosines, Eran; Johkura, Kohei; Zhang, Xing; Schmidt, Heidi J; Decambre, Marvalyn; Bush, Kevin T; Nigam, Sanjay K

2010-08-01

The plausibility of constructing vascularized three-dimensional (3D) kidney tissue from cells was investigated. The kidney develops from mutual inductive interactions between cells of the ureteric bud (UB), derived from the Wolffian duct (WD), and the metanephric mesenchyme (MM). We found that isolated MMs were capable of inducing branching morphogenesis of the WD (an epithelial tube) in recombination cultures; suggesting that the isolated MM retains inductive capacity for WD-derived epithelial tubule cells other than those from the UB. Hanging drop aggregates of embryonic and adult renal epithelial cells from UB and mouse inner medullary collecting duct cell (IMCD) lines, which are ultimately of WD origin, were capable of inducing MM epithelialization and tubulogenesis with apparent connections (UB cells) and collecting duct-like tubules with lumens (IMCD). This supports the view that the collecting system can be constructed from certain epithelial cells (those ultimately of WD origin) when stimulated by MM. Although the functions of the MM could not be replaced by cultured mesenchymal cells, primary MM cells and one MM-derived cell line (BSN) produced factors that stimulate UB branching morphogenesis, whereas another, rat inducible metanephric mesenchyme (RIMM-18), supported WD budding as a feeder layer. This indicates that some MM functions can be recapitulated by cells. Although engineering of a kidney-like tissue from cultured cells alone remains to be achieved, these results suggest the feasibility of such an approach following the normal developmental progression of the UB and MM. Consistent with this notion, implants of kidney-like tissues constructed in vitro from recombinations of the UB and MM survived for over 5 weeks and achieved an apparently host-derived glomerular vasculature. Lastly, we addressed the issue of optimal macro- and micro-patterning of kidney-like tissue, which might be necessary for function of an organ assembled using a tissue engineering approach. To identify suitable conditions, 3D reconstructions of HoxB7-green fluorescent protein mouse rudiments (E12) cultured on a filter or suspended in a collagen gel (type I or type IV) revealed that type IV collagen 3D culture supports the deepest tissue growth (600 +/- 8 microm) and the largest kidney volume (0.22 +/- 0.02 mm(3)), and enabled the development of an umbrella-shaped collecting system such as occurs in vivo. Taken together with prior work (Rosines et al., 2007; Steer et al., 2002), these results support the plausibility of a developmental strategy for constructing and propagating vascularized 3D kidney-like tissues from recombinations of cultured renal progenitor cells and/or primordial tissue.

Genetic parameters for sensory traits in longissimus muscle and their associations with tenderness, marbling score, and intramuscular fat in Angus cattle.

PubMed

Mateescu, R G; Garrick, D J; Garmyn, A J; VanOverbeke, D L; Mafi, G G; Reecy, J M

2015-01-01

The objective of this study was to estimate heritabilities for sensory traits and genetic correlations among sensory traits and with marbling score (MS), Warner-Bratzler shear force (WBSF), and intramuscular fat content (IMFC). Samples of LM from 2,285 Angus cattle were obtained and fabricated into steaks for laboratory analysis and 1,720 steaks were analyzed by a trained sensory panel. Restricted maximum likelihood procedures were used to obtain estimates of variance and covariance components under a multitrait animal model. Estimates of heritability for MS, IMFC, WBSF, tenderness, juiciness, and connective tissue traits were 0.67, 0.38, 0.19, 0.18, 0.06, and 0.25, respectively. The genetic correlations of MS with tenderness, juiciness, and connective tissue were estimated to be 0.57 ± 0.14, 1.00 ± 0.17, and 0.49 ± 0.13, all positive and strong. Estimated genetic correlations of IMFC with tenderness, juiciness, and connective tissue were 0.56 ± 0.16, 1.00 ± 0.21, and 0.50 ± 0.15, respectively. The genetic correlations of WBSF with tenderness, juiciness, and connective tissue were all favorable and estimated to be -0.99 ± 0.08, -0.33 ± 0.30 and -0.99 ± 0.07, respectively. Strong and positive genetic correlations were estimated between tenderness and juiciness (0.54 ± 0.28) and between connective tissue and juiciness (0.58 ± 0.26). In general, genetic correlations were large and favorable, which indicated that strong relationships exist and similar gene and gene networks may control MS, IMFC, and juiciness or WBSF, panel tenderness, and connective tissue. The results from this study confirm that MS currently used in selection breeding programs has positive genetic correlations with tenderness and juiciness and, therefore, is an effective indicator trait for the improvement of tenderness and juiciness in beef. This study also indicated that a more objective measure, particularly WBSF, a trait not easy to improve through phenotypic selection, is an excellent candidate trait for genomic selection aimed at improving eating satisfaction.

Deregulated expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) is linked to poor outcome in human cancer.

PubMed

Wells, Julia E; Howlett, Meegan; Cole, Catherine H; Kees, Ursula R

2015-08-01

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF/CCN2) has long been associated with human cancers. The role it plays in these neoplasms is diverse and tumour specific. Recurring patterns in clinical outcome, histological desmoplasia and mechanisms of action have been found. When CTGF is overexpressed compared to low-expressing normal tissue or is underexpressed compared to high-expressing normal tissue, the functional outcome favours tumour survival and disease progression. CTGF acts by altering proliferation, drug resistance, angiogenesis, adhesion and migration contributing to metastasis. The pattern of CTGF expression and tumour response helps to clarify the role of this matricellular protein across a multitude of human cancers. © 2014 UICC.

Celebration of the 50th anniversary of the foundation of the French society for connective tissue research. Its short history in the frame of the origin and development of this discipline.

PubMed

Borel, J P; Maquart, F X; Robert, A M; Labat-Robert, J; Robert, L

2012-02-01

The science of connective tissues has (at least) a double origin. Collagen, their major constituent was first studied in conjunction with the leather industry. Acid mucopolysaccharides (now glycosaminoglycans) were characterised by (bio)-chemists interested in glycoconjugates. They joined mainly hospital-based rheumatology departments. Later started the study of elastin with the discovery of elastases and of connective tissue-born (structural) glycoproteins. Besides rhumatologists and leather-chemists mainly pathologists became involved in this type of research, followed closely by ophthalmology research. The first important meetings of these diverse specialists were organised under the auspices of NATO, first in Saint-Andrew's in GB in 1964 and a few years later (1969) in Santa Margareta, Italy. With the discovery of fibronectin, a "structural glycoprotein", started the study of cell-matrix interactions, reinforced by the identification of cell-receptors mediating them and the "cross-talk" between cells and matrix constituents. The first initiative to organise societies for this rapidly growing discipline was that of Ward Pigman in New York in 1961, restricted however to glycol-conjugates. Next year, in 1962 was founded the first European Connective Tissue Society in Paris: the "Club français du tissu conjonctif", which played a crucial role in the establishment of schools, laboratories, national and international meetings in the major cities of France: Paris, Lyon, Reims, Caen,Toulouse. A second European society was born in Great Britain, and at a joint meeting with the French society at the Paris Pasteur Institute, was founded in 1967 by these societies the Federation of European Connective Tissue Societies (FECTS). Their meetings, organised every second year, drained a wide attendance from all over the world. An increasing number of young scientists joined since then this branch of biomedical discipline with several international journals devoted to connective tissue research, to matrix biology. The increasing number and quality of the young generation of scientists engaged in research related to the extracellular matrix or better Biomatrix and cell-matrix interactions is a further guarantee for the continued interest in this crucial field of science at the interface of basic and medically oriented research. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

[Silicone in autoimmune diseases and cancer].

PubMed

Elejabeitia, J

1999-01-01

In 1992 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the restriction of silicone gel-filled breast implants until research protocol studies evaluate the relationship of silicone to connective tissue diseases, and the association of the silicone implants with breast carcinoma. Since them comprehensive epidemiologic studies have concluded that there is no connection between breast implants and the known connective tissue diseases or between the implants and breast carcinoma. During the same year, The American College of Rheumatology said that it have not been demonstrated the relationship between silicone gel breast implants and any systemic disease. Although this, the FDA restriction continues.

Subperiosteal and intraosseous connective tissue grafts for pocket reduction: a 9- to 13-year retrospective case series report.

PubMed

Nelson, S W

2001-10-01

Recent histological evidence has documented that grafted palatal connective tissue is capable of forming a new attachment to previously exposed roots in the treatment of gingival recession. No clinical studies have tested the ability of connective tissue that has been implanted beneath the periosteum into periodontal osseous defects to reduce probing depth and increase clinical attachment levels. This study reports the long-term clinical effect of subperiosteal and intraosseous connective tissue grafts on deep periodontal pockets. Connective tissue (CT) grafts were placed in 32 periodontal pockets on 27 patients. Grafts were classified into 3 groups. Type I grafts had 50% or more vascular surface contact and were < or = 2.5 mm thick. Type II grafts had 50% or more contact but were > 2.5 mm thick, and Type III grafts had less than 50% vascular contact regardless of thickness. Twelve of 14 Type I sites, 9 of 15 Type II sites, and 3 of 3 Type III sites were analyzed 9 to 13 years following treatment. Clinical attachment level change differed significantly between the graft types on survivor teeth (P < 0.05): Type III had 2 mm loss (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.4 to 3.6), while Type II and Type I grafts had a 2.7 mm gain (95% CI: 2.0 to 3.4) and 4.3 mm gain (95% CI: 3.3 to 5.2), respectively. Similar substantial differences were presented for changes in probing depth and recession. This long-term (9 to 13 years) retrospective case-series analysis suggests substantial improvements in periodontal clinical measures for Type I CT grafts in deep periodontal pockets. Randomized trials are required to evaluate this promising procedure.

Deformation of the Early Glaucomatous Monkey Optic Nerve Head Connective Tissue after Acute IOP Elevation in 3-D Histomorphometric Reconstructions

PubMed Central

Yang, Hongli; Thompson, Hilary; Roberts, Michael D.; Sigal, Ian A.; Downs, J. Crawford

2011-01-01

Purpose. To retest the hypothesis that monkey ONH connective tissues become hypercompliant in early experimental glaucoma (EEG), by using 3-D histomorphometric reconstructions, and to expand the characterization of EEG connective tissue deformation to nine EEG eyes. Methods. Trephinated ONH and peripapillary sclera from both eyes of nine monkeys that were perfusion fixed, with one normal eye at IOP 10 mm Hg and the other EEG eye at 10 (n = 3), 30 (n = 3), or 45 (n = 3) mm Hg were serial sectioned, 3-D reconstructed, 3-D delineated, and quantified with 3-D reconstruction techniques developed in prior studies by the authors. Overall, and for each monkey, intereye differences (EEG eye minus normal eye) for each parameter were calculated and compared by ANOVA. Hypercompliance in the EEG 30 and 45 eyes was assessed by ANOVA, and deformations in all nine EEG eyes were separately compared by region without regard for fixation IOP. Results. Hypercompliant deformation was not significant in the overall ANOVA, but was suggested in a subset of EEG 30/45 eyes. EEG eye deformations included posterior laminar deformation, neural canal expansion, lamina cribrosa thickening, and posterior (outward) bowing of the peripapillary sclera. Maximum posterior laminar deformation and scleral canal expansion co-localized to either the inferior nasal or superior temporal quadrants in the eyes with the least deformation and involved both quadrants in the eyes achieving the greatest deformation. Conclusions. The data suggest that, in monkey EEG, ONH connective tissue hypercompliance may occur only in a subset of eyes and that early ONH connective tissue deformation is maximized in the superior temporal and/or inferior nasal quadrants. PMID:20702834

Mammary Stem Cells and Breast Cancer Stem Cells: Molecular Connections and Clinical Implications.

PubMed

Celià-Terrassa, Toni

2018-05-04

Cancer arises from subpopulations of transformed cells with high tumor initiation and repopulation ability, known as cancer stem cells (CSCs), which share many similarities with their normal counterparts. In the mammary gland, several studies have shown common molecular regulators between adult mammary stem cells (MaSCs) and breast cancer stem cells (bCSCs). Cell plasticity and self-renewal are essential abilities for MaSCs to maintain tissue homeostasis and regenerate the gland after pregnancy. Intriguingly, these properties are similarly executed in breast cancer stem cells to drive tumor initiation, tumor heterogeneity and recurrence after chemotherapy. In addition, both stem cell phenotypes are strongly influenced by external signals from the microenvironment, immune cells and supportive specific niches. This review focuses on the intrinsic and extrinsic connections of MaSC and bCSCs with clinical implications for breast cancer progression and their possible therapeutic applications.

Upregulation of angiogenesis in oral lichen planus.

PubMed

Al-Hassiny, A; Friedlander, L T; Parachuru, V P B; Seo, B; Hussaini, H M; Rich, A M

2018-02-01

As angiogenesis is fundamental to the pathogenesis of many chronic inflammatory disorders, this study investigated the expression of various vascular markers in oral lichen planus and non-specific oral mucosal inflammatory tissues. Archival specimens of oral lichen planus (n = 15) and inflamed tissues (n = 13) were stained using immunohistochemistry with antibodies to CD34, vascular endothelial growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor and vasohibin. Nine representative sites at the epithelial-connective tissue junction and through the fibrous connective tissue were selected, and automated analysis techniques were used to determine the extent of positivity expressed as the percentage of positive cells. Significance was denoted when P < .05. The expression of pro-angiogenic factors was higher in lichen planus samples compared with inflamed controls. A higher level of CD34 was observed in the deeper parts of the connective tissue of Oral lichen planus (OLP) (P = .04), whereas VEGF and VEGFR2 expressions were higher all through the tissues (respectively, P < .02 and P < .01). The expression of the anti-angiogenic VASH1 was higher in inflamed tissue compared with lichen planus in all sites evaluated (P < .01). The findings indicate that angiogenic factors are differentially expressed in oral lichen planus compared with inflamed controls, with increased expression of pro-angiogenic factors and decreased anti-angiogenic expression. © 2017 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Are blood group isoantigens lost from malignant prostatic epithelium? Immunohistochemical support for the preservation of the H isoantigen.

PubMed Central

Vowden, P.; Lowe, A. D.; Lennox, E. S.; Bleehen, N. M.

1986-01-01

Previous studies while demonstrating the presence of blood group isoantigens on normal prostatic epithelium have failed to identify such antigens on malignant prostatic tissue. Using a series of blood group specific monoclonal antibodies directed towards the A, B, H and Y antigens we have reinvestigated blood group isoantigen expression in both benign prostatic hypertrophy and prostatic adenocarcinoma. Results obtained from areas of benign prostatic hypertrophy are in broad agreement with those published however though we were unable to detect either A or B blood group isoantigens Type 2H and Y isoantigens were identified in 10 of the 12 tumours. These findings, while differing from previously reported results, lend support to the suggested connection between ontogenesis, oncogenesis and blood group isoantigen expression and also support the proposed link between Type 2 structures and malignant transformation. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 PMID:2421753

Role of PTPα in the Destruction of Periodontal Connective Tissues

PubMed Central

Rajshankar, Dhaarmini; Sima, Corneliu; Wang, Qin; Goldberg, Stephanie R.; Kazembe, Mwayi; Wang, Yongqiang; Glogauer, Michael; Downey, Gregory P.; McCulloch, Christopher A.

2013-01-01

IL-1β contributes to connective tissue destruction in part by up-regulating stromelysin-1 (MMP-3), which in fibroblasts is a focal adhesion-dependent process. Protein tyrosine phosphatase-α (PTPα) is enriched in and regulates the formation of focal adhesions, but the role of PTPα in connective tissue destruction is not defined. We first examined destruction of periodontal connective tissues in adult PTPα+/+ and PTPα−/− mice subjected to ligature-induced periodontitis, which increases the levels of multiple cytokines, including IL-1β. Three weeks after ligation, maxillae were processed for morphometry, micro-computed tomography and histomorphometry. Compared with unligated controls, there was ∼1.5–3 times greater bone loss as well as 3-fold reduction of the thickness of the gingival lamina propria and 20-fold reduction of the amount of collagen fibers in WT than PTPα−/− mice. Immunohistochemical staining of periodontal tissue showed elevated expression of MMP-3 at ligated sites. Second, to examine mechanisms by which PTPα may regulate matrix degradation, human MMP arrays were used to screen conditioned media from human gingival fibroblasts treated with vehicle, IL-1β or TNFα. Although MMP-3 was upregulated by both cytokines, only IL-1β stimulated ERK activation in human gingival fibroblasts plated on fibronectin. TIRF microscopy and immunoblotting analyses of cells depleted of PTPα activity with the use of various mutated constructs or with siRNA or PTPαKO and matched wild type fibroblasts were plated on fibronectin to enable focal adhesion formation and stimulated with IL-1β. These data showed that the catalytic and adaptor functions of PTPα were required for IL-1β-induced focal adhesion formation, ERK activation and MMP-3 release. We conclude that inflammation-induced connective tissue degradation involving fibroblasts requires functionally active PTPα and in part is mediated by IL-1β signaling through focal adhesions. PMID:23940616

A Framework for Modelling Connective Tissue Changes in VIIP Syndrome

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ethier, C. R.; Best, L.; Gleason, R.; Mulugeta, L.; Myers, J. G.; Nelson, E. S.; Samuels, B. C.

2014-01-01

Insertion of astronauts into microgravity induces a cascade of physiological adaptations, notably including a cephalad fluid shift. Longer-duration flights carry an increased risk of developing Visual Impairment and Intracranial Pressure (VIIP) syndrome, a spectrum of ophthalmic changes including posterior globe flattening, choroidal folds, distension of the optic nerve sheath, kinking of the optic nerve and potentially permanent degradation of visual function. The slow onset of changes in VIIP, their chronic nature, and the similarity of certain clinical features of VIIP to ophthalmic findings in patients with raised intracranial pressure strongly suggest that: (i) biomechanical factors play a role in VIIP, and (ii) connective tissue remodeling must be accounted for if we wish to understand the pathology of VIIP. Our goal is to elucidate the pathophysiology of VIIP and suggest countermeasures based on biomechanical modeling of ocular tissues, suitably informed by experimental data, and followed by validation and verification. We specifically seek to understand the quasi-homeostatic state that evolves over weeks to months in space, during which ocular tissue remodeling occurs. This effort is informed by three bodies of work: (i) modeling of cephalad fluid shifts; (ii) modeling of ophthalmic tissue biomechanics in glaucoma; and (iii) modeling of connective tissue changes in response to biomechanical loading.

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

Harper, J.; Amiel, D.; Harper, E.

The authors examined the patellar tendon (PT), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and medial collateral ligament (MCL) from normal rabbits for collagenase activity. All three connective tissues contain large amounts of collagen and the catabolism of this structural protein is important to their integrity. The authors cultured each tissue in serum free medium for 14 days. Collagenase was produced by all three connective tissues after a lag period of up to 7 days, as detected by the /sup 14/C-glycine peptide-release assay. Culture media that did not express enzyme the authors found to contain inhibitory activity. The collagenases and inhibitors from eachmore » tissue have been quantitated and characterized. After 9 days the collagenase activity for the rabbit periarticular tissues was 6.1 (PT), 4.4 (MCL) and 8.6 (ACL) units per milligram of secreted protein. The cleavage site of all three collagenases was found to be similar to that observed for rabbit skin collagenase, and generation of reaction products TC/sup A/ and TC/sup B/ was demonstrated by collagenases from PT, MCL and ACL. These results suggest that the metabolism of ligaments and tendon is regulated by the production of zymogen, active collagenase and inhibitor, similar to other connective tissues. The role of these components in joint injury and joint diseases is currently being investigated.« less

In vivo relationship between pelvis motion and deep fascia displacement of the medial gastrocnemius: anatomical and functional implications.

PubMed

Cruz-Montecinos, Carlos; González Blanche, Alberto; López Sánchez, David; Cerda, Mauricio; Sanzana-Cuche, Rodolfo; Cuesta-Vargas, Antonio

2015-11-01

Different authors have modelled myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance using cadaveric models, but in vivo models are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between pelvic motion and deep fascia displacement in the medial gastrocnemius (MG). Deep fascia displacement of the MG was evaluated through automatic tracking with an ultrasound. Angular variation of the pelvis was determined by 2D kinematic analysis. The average maximum fascia displacement and pelvic motion were 1.501 ± 0.78 mm and 6.55 ± 2.47 °, respectively. The result of a simple linear regression between fascia displacement and pelvic motion for three task executions by 17 individuals was r = 0.791 (P < 0.001). Moreover, hamstring flexibility was related to a lower anterior tilt of the pelvis (r = 0.544, P < 0.024) and a lower deep fascia displacement of the MG (r = 0.449, P < 0.042). These results support the concept of myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance in an in vivo model, reinforce the functional concept of force transmission through synergistic muscle groups, and grant new perspectives for the role of fasciae in restricting movement in remote zones. © 2015 Anatomical Society.

In vivo relationship between pelvis motion and deep fascia displacement of the medial gastrocnemius: anatomical and functional implications

PubMed Central

Cruz-Montecinos, Carlos; González Blanche, Alberto; López Sánchez, David; Cerda, Mauricio; Sanzana-Cuche, Rodolfo; Cuesta-Vargas, Antonio

2015-01-01

Different authors have modelled myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance using cadaveric models, but in vivo models are scarce. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between pelvic motion and deep fascia displacement in the medial gastrocnemius (MG). Deep fascia displacement of the MG was evaluated through automatic tracking with an ultrasound. Angular variation of the pelvis was determined by 2D kinematic analysis. The average maximum fascia displacement and pelvic motion were 1.501 ± 0.78 mm and 6.55 ± 2.47 °, respectively. The result of a simple linear regression between fascia displacement and pelvic motion for three task executions by 17 individuals was r = 0.791 (P < 0.001). Moreover, hamstring flexibility was related to a lower anterior tilt of the pelvis (r = 0.544, P < 0.024) and a lower deep fascia displacement of the MG (r = 0.449, P < 0.042). These results support the concept of myofascial tissue connectivity over a distance in an in vivo model, reinforce the functional concept of force transmission through synergistic muscle groups, and grant new perspectives for the role of fasciae in restricting movement in remote zones. PMID:26467242

Giant elephantiasis neuromatosa in the setting of neurofibromatosis type 1: A case report

PubMed Central

PONTI, GIOVANNI; PELLACANI, GIOVANNI; MARTORANA, DAVIDE; MANDEL, VICTOR DESMOND; LOSCHI, PIETRO; POLLIO, ANNAMARIA; PECCHI, ANNARITA; DEALIS, CRISTINA; SEIDENARI, STEFANIA; TOMASI, ALDO

2016-01-01

Elephantiasis neuromatosa (EN) can arise from a plexiform neurofibroma of the superficial and deep nerves developing from a hyperproliferation of the perineural connective tissue infiltrating adjacent fat and muscles. To date, the clinical association between EN and neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) has been poorly defined, particularly with regard to the role of lymphatic alterations and the consequent lymphedema. The present study reports the clinical and biomolecular features of EN in a NF1 patient with the clear clinical diagnostic criteria of multiple cafè-au-lait macules, neurofibromas, EN, a positive family history and a novel NF1 germline c.1541_1542del mutation. Lymphoscintigraphy (LS) highlighted marked dermal backflow in the affected limb, hypertrophy of the ipsilateral inguinal and external iliac lymph nodes, and a bilateral lower limb lymph flow delay. These data support the hypothesis that an extensive hyperproliferative process involving perineural connective, limb soft tissues, bones and the lymphatic system can be responsible for EN in NF1 patients, on the basis of adipocyte metaplasia triggered by lymphostasis and lymphedema, and bone overgrowth and gigantism caused by chronic hyperemia. LS and magnetic resonance imaging can be efficacious tools in the diagnosis and clinical characterization of the early onset of the disease. PMID:27284375

Localisation of stem cell factor, stanniocalcin-1, connective tissue growth factor and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor in the bovine uterus at the time of blastocyst formation.

PubMed

Muñoz, M; Martin, D; Carrocera, S; Alonso-Guervos, M; Mora, M I; Corrales, F J; Peynot, N; Giraud-Delville, C; Duranthon, V; Sandra, O; Gómez, E

2017-10-01

Early embryonic losses before implantation account for the highest rates of reproductive failure in mammals, in particular when in vitro-produced embryos are transferred. In the present study, we used molecular biology techniques (real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction), classical immunohistochemical staining coupled with confocal microscopy and proteomic analysis (multiple reaction monitoring and western blot analysis) to investigate the role of four growth factors in embryo-uterine interactions during blastocyst development. Supported by a validated embryo transfer model, the study investigated: (1) the expression of stem cell factor (SCF), stanniocalcin-1 (STC1), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) in bovine uterine fluid; (2) the presence of SCF, STC1, CTGF and HB-EGF mRNA and protein in the bovine endometrium and embryos; and (3) the existence of reciprocal regulation between endometrial and embryonic expression of SCF, STC1, CTGF and HB-EGF. The results suggest that these growth factors most likely play an important role during preimplantation embryo development in cattle. The information obtained from the present study can contribute to improving the performance of in vitro culture technology in cattle and other species.

Search for familial clustering of multiple myeloma with any cancer.

PubMed

Frank, C; Fallah, M; Chen, T; Mai, E K; Sundquist, J; Försti, A; Hemminki, K

2016-03-01

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a disease of immunoglobulin-producing plasma cells, which reside mainly in the bone marrow. Family members of MM patients are at a risk of MM, but whether other malignancies are in excess in family members is not established and is the aim of this study. MM patients (24 137) were identified from the Swedish Cancer Registry from years 1958 to 2012. Relative risks (RRs) were calculated for MM defined by any cancer diagnosed in first-degree relatives and compared with individuals whose relatives had no cancer. MM was reliably associated with relative's colorectal, breast and prostate cancers, non-thyroid endocrine tumors, leukemia and cancer of unknown primary; in addition, MM was associated with subsites of bone and connective tissue tumors and of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma/Waldenström macroglobulinema (RR 3.47). MM showed a strong association (RR 1.91) in colorectal cancer families, possibly as part of an unidentified syndrome. All the associations of MM with discordant cancers are novel suggesting that MM shares genetic susceptibility with many cancers. The associations of MM bone and connective tissue tumors were supported by at least two independent results. Whether the results signal bone-related biology shared by MM and these tumors deserves further study.

Tumors: Wounds that do not heal--Redux

PubMed Central

Dvorak, Harold F.

2014-01-01

Similarities between tumors and the inflammatory response associated with wound healing have been recognized for more than 150 years and continue to intrigue. Some years ago, based on our then recent discovery of vascular permeability factor (VPF)/vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), I suggested that tumors behaved as wounds that do not heal. More particularly, I proposed that tumors co-opted the wound healing response in order to induce the stroma they required for maintenance and growth. Work over the past few decades has supported this hypothesis and has put it on a firmer molecular basis. In outline, VPF/VEGF initiates a sequence of events in both tumors and wounds that includes the following: increased vascular permeability; extravasation of plasma, fibrinogen and other plasma proteins; activation of the clotting system outside the vascular system; deposition of an extravascular fibrin gel which serves as a provisional stroma and a favorable matrix for cell migration; induction of angiogenesis and arterio-venogenesis; subsequent degradation of fibrin and its replacement by “granulation tissue” (highly vascular connective tissue); and, finally, vascular resorption and collagen synthesis, resulting in the formation of dense fibrous connective tissue (called “scar tissue” in wounds and “desmoplasia” in cancer). A similar sequence of events also takes place in a variety of important inflammatory diseases that involve cellular immunity. PMID:25568067

Mechanical design, analysis, and laboratory testing of a dental implant with axial flexibility similar to natural tooth with periodontal ligament.

PubMed

Pektaş, Ömer; Tönük, Ergin

2014-11-01

At the interface between the jawbone and the roots of natural teeth, a thin, elastic, shock-absorbing tissue, called the periodontal ligament, forms a cushion which provides certain flexibility under mechanical loading. The dental restorations supported by implants, however, involve comparatively rigid connections to the jawbone. This causes overloading of the implant while bearing functional loading together with neighboring natural teeth, which leads to high stresses within the implant system and in the jawbone. A dental implant, with resilient components in the upper structure (abutment) in order to mimic the mechanical behavior of the periodontal ligament in the axial direction, was designed, analyzed in silico, and produced for mechanical testing. The aims of the design were avoiding high levels of stress, loosening of the abutment connection screw, and soft tissue irritations. The finite element analysis of the designed implant revealed that the elastic abutment yielded a similar axial mobility with the natural tooth while keeping stress in the implant at safe levels. The in vitro mechanical testing of the prototype resulted in similar axial mobility predicted by the analysis and as that of a typical natural tooth. The abutment screw did not loosen under repeated loading and there was no static or fatigue failure. © IMechE 2014.

Histopathologic changes in dental pulp of teeth with chronic periodontitis.

PubMed

Aguiar, Telma R; Tristao, Gilson C; Mandarino, Denize; Zarranz, Laila; Ferreira, Vinicius F; Barboza, Eliane P

2014-05-01

The aim of this study was to evaluate the histopathologic changes in dental pulp of teeth with chronic advanced periodontitis. In 22 patients, 30 teeth were selected for inclusion. Patients had received no periodontal treatment. No teeth had caries, abrasion, attrition, erosion, trauma, or restoration. Radiographically, all teeth showed bone-support destruction to the apex. Thermal and cavity tests were used to evaluate pulp vitality. After tooth extractions, crowns were separated from roots at the cementoenamel junction. Both the crowns and the roots were prepared for histopathologic analyses. Radicular pulp was analyzed considering both coronal and apical halves. In 100 percent of the cases, coronal pulp exhibited soft connective tissue. In the coronal half of radicular pulp, soft connective tissue was present in 60 percent of the cases, fibrosis in 30 percent, and fibrosis associated with dystrophic calcification in 10 percent. In the apical half of radicular pulp, 6.6 percent of the cases demonstrated fibrosis; 23 percent exhibited fibrosis associated with pulp atrophy and secondary dentin; and 63.3 percent showed fibrosis, pulp atrophy, secondary dentin, and diffuse calcification. Radicular pulp of teeth with chronic periodontitis presents characteristics compatible with pulp changes resulting from pulp aging. In such cases, endodontic treatment is not indicated to enhance periodontal treatment results.

Histo-mechanical properties of the swine cardinal and uterosacral ligaments.

PubMed

Tan, Ting; Davis, Frances M; Gruber, Daniel D; Massengill, Jason C; Robertson, John L; De Vita, Raffaella

2015-02-01

The focus of this study was to determine the structural and mechanical properties of two major ligaments that support the uterus, cervix, and vagina: the cardinal ligament (CL) and the uterosacral ligament (USL). The adult swine was selected as animal model. Histological analysis was performed on longitudinal and cross sections of CL and USL specimens using Masson׳s trichrome and Verhoeff-van Giesson staining methods. Scanning electron microscopy was employed to visualize the through-thickness organization of the collagen fibers. Quasi-static uniaxial tests were conducted on specimens that were harvested from the CL/USL complex of a single swine. Dense connective tissue with a high content of elastin and collagen fibers was observed in the USL. Loose connective tissue with a considerable amount of smooth muscle cells and ground substance was detected in both the CL and USL. Collagen fibers, smooth muscle cells, blood vessels, and nerve fibers were arranged primarily in the plane of the ligaments. The USL was significantly stronger than the CL with higher ultimate stress and tangent modulus of the linear region of the stress-strain curve. Knowledge about the mechanical properties of the CL and USL will aid in the design of novel mesh materials, stretching routines, and surgical procedures for pelvic floor disorders. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Pruritus in Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases.

PubMed

Smith, Gideon P; Argobi, Yahya

2018-07-01

Pruritus in autoimmune connective tissue diseases is a common symptom that can be severe and affect the quality of life of patients. It can be related to disease activity and severity or occur independent of the disease. Appropriate therapy to control the itch depends on the etiology, and it is therefore essential to first work-up these patients for the underlying trigger. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Lipoic acid prevents suppression of connective tissue proliferation in the rat liver induced by n-3 PUFAs. A pilot study.

PubMed

Arend, A; Zilmer, M; Vihalemm, T; Selstam, G; Sepp, E

2000-01-01

As previously shown, dietary n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) suppress connective tissue proliferation in the rat liver wound concurrent with an elevated level of lipid peroxidation. The present study was undertaken to investigate the influence of alpha-lipoic acid (LA), a natural anti-oxidant, on these effects of n-3 PUFAs. Rats were fed with a commercial pellet diet (control group) or with diets enriched with 10% of sunflower oil (n-6 group) or 10% of fish oil (n-3 group) for 8 weeks followed by addition of LA to the same diets for 10 days. Then a liver thermic wound was induced and the administration of LA was continued for 6 days. The proliferation of the connective tissue, the level of lipid peroxidation and their peroxidizability and the content of prostaglandins E2 and F2alpha were measured in the liver wounds. LA prevented the suppression of connective tissue proliferation in the healing wound induced by n-3 PUFAs, avoided the increase in peroxidation of lipids, reduced peroxidizability of lipids and modulated the decrease in PGE2 and PGF2alpha. The results indicate that dietary LA may prevent the suppression of liver wound healing induced by n-3 PUFAs.

Elevated Dietary Magnesium Prevents Connective Tissue Mineralization in a Mouse Model of Pseudoxanthoma Elasticum (Abcc6−/−)

PubMed Central

LaRusso, Jennifer; Li, Qiaoli; Jiang, Qiujie; Uitto, Jouni

2010-01-01

Pseudoxanthoma elasticum (PXE) is an autosomal recessive multi-system disorder characterized by ectopic connective tissue mineralization, with clinical manifestations primarily in the skin, eyes and the cardiovascular system. There is considerable, both intra-and inter-familial variability in the spectrum of phenotypic presentation. Previous studies have suggested that mineral content of the diet may modify the severity of the clinical phenotype in PXE. In this study, we utilized a targeted mutant mouse (Abcc6−/−) as a model system for PXE. We examined the effects of changes in dietary phosphate and magnesium on the mineralization process using calcification of the connective tissue capsule surrounding the vibrissae as an early phenotypic biomarker. Mice placed on custom-designed diets either high or low in phosphate did not show changes in mineralization, which was similar to that noted in Abcc6−/− mice on control diet. However, mice placed on diet enriched in magnesium (5-fold) showed no evidence of connective tissue mineralization in this mouse model of PXE. The inhibitory capacity of magnesium was confirmed in a cell-based mineralization assay system in vitro. Collectively, our observations suggest that assessment of dietary magnesium in patients with PXE may be warranted. PMID:19122649

Chloroquine cardiotoxicity mimicking connective tissue disease heart involvement.

PubMed

Vereckei, András; Fazakas, Adám; Baló, Timea; Fekete, Béla; Molnár, Mária Judit; Karádi, István

2013-04-01

The authors report a case of rare chloroquine cardiotoxicity mimicking connective tissue disease heart involvement in a 56-year-old woman with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) manifested suddenly as third degree A-V block with QT(c) interval prolongation and short torsade de pointes runs ultimately degenerating into ventricular fibrillation. Immunological tests suggested an MCTD flare, implying that cardiac arrest had resulted from myocardial involvement by MCTD. However, QT(c) prolongation is not a characteristic of cardiomyopathy caused by connective tissue disease, unless anti-Ro/SSA positivity is present, but that was not the case. Therefore, looking for another cause of QT(c) prolongation the possibility of chloroquine cardiotoxicity emerged, which the patient had been receiving for almost two years in supramaximal doses. Biopsy of the deltoid muscle was performed, because in chloroquine toxicity, specific lesions are present both in the skeletal muscle and in the myocardium, and electron microscopy revealed the accumulation of cytoplasmic curvilinear bodies, which are specific to antimalarial-induced myocyte damage and are absent in all other muscle diseases, except neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Thus, the diagnosis of chloroquine cardiotoxicity was established. It might be advisable to supplement the periodic ophthalmological examination, which is currently the only recommendation for patients on long-term chloroquine therapy, with ECG screening.

Mechanism of drug-induced gingival overgrowth revisited: a unifying hypothesis

PubMed Central

Brown, RS; Arany, PR

2015-01-01

Drug-induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO) is a disfiguring side effect of anti-convulsants, calcineurin inhibitors, and calcium channel blocking agents. A unifying hypothesis has been constructed which begins with cation flux inhibition induced by all three of these drug categories. Decreased cation influx of folic acid active transport within gingival fibroblasts leads to decreased cellular folate uptake, which in turn leads to changes in matrix metalloproteinases metabolism and the failure to activate collagenase. Decreased availability of activated collagenase results in decreased degradation of accumulated connective tissue which presents as DIGO. Studies supporting this hypothesis are discussed. PMID:24893951

Pattern Genes Suggest Functional Connectivity of Organs

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Yangmei; Pan, Jianbo; Cai, Meichun; Yao, Lixia; Ji, Zhiliang

2016-05-01

Human organ, as the basic structural and functional unit in human body, is made of a large community of different cell types that organically bound together. Each organ usually exerts highly specified physiological function; while several related organs work smartly together to perform complicated body functions. In this study, we present a computational effort to understand the roles of genes in building functional connection between organs. More specifically, we mined multiple transcriptome datasets sampled from 36 human organs and tissues, and quantitatively identified 3,149 genes whose expressions showed consensus modularly patterns: specific to one organ/tissue, selectively expressed in several functionally related tissues and ubiquitously expressed. These pattern genes imply intrinsic connections between organs. According to the expression abundance of the 766 selective genes, we consistently cluster the 36 human organs/tissues into seven functional groups: adipose & gland, brain, muscle, immune, metabolism, mucoid and nerve conduction. The organs and tissues in each group either work together to form organ systems or coordinate to perform particular body functions. The particular roles of specific genes and selective genes suggest that they could not only be used to mechanistically explore organ functions, but also be designed for selective biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

[Histomorphometric evaluation of ridge preservation after molar tooth extraction].

PubMed

Zhan, Y L; Hu, W J; Xu, T; Zhen, M; Lu, R F

2017-02-18

To evaluate bone formation in human extraction sockets with absorbed surrounding walls augmented with Bio-Oss and Bio-Gide after a 6-month healing period by histologic and histomorphometric analyses. Six fresh molar tooth extraction sockets in 6 patients who required periodontally compromised moral tooth extraction were included in this study. The six fresh extraction sockets were grafted with Bio-Oss particle covered with Bio-Gide. The 2.8 mm×6.0 mm cylindric bone specimens were taken from the graft sites with aid of stent 6 months after the surgery. Histologic and histomorphometric analyses were performed. The histological results showed Bio-Oss particles were easily distinguished from the newly formed bone, small amounts of new bone were formed among the Bio-Oss particles, large amounts of connective tissue were found. Intimate contact between the newly formed bone and the small part of Bio-Oss particles was present. All the biopsy cylinders measurement demonstrated a high inter-individual variability in the percentage of the bone, connective tissues and Bio-Oss particles. The new bone occupied 11.54% (0-28.40%) of the total area; the connective tissues were 53.42% (34.08%-74.59%) and the Bio-Oss particles were 35.04% (13.92%-50.87%). The percentage of the particles, which were in contact with bone tissues, amounted to 20.13% (0-48.50%). Sites grafted with Bio-Oss particles covered with Bio-Gide were comprised of connective tissues and small amounts of newly formed bone surrounding the graft particles.

Surgical anatomy of the posterior liver surface: the retrohepatic lamina as the basis for mobilisation of the right liver.

PubMed

Macchi, Veronica; Porzionato, Andrea; Bardini, Romeo; Picardi, Edgardo Enrico Edoardo; De Caro, Raffaele

2013-10-01

During right hepatectomies, dissection of the bare area is performed to obtain mobilisation of the liver. Fifty computed tomography scans of the upper abdomen of patients were examined. Specimens of supramesocolic compartment were sampled from 10 un-embalmed cadavers. Macrosections were cut for histotopographic study. In four cadavers, in situ dissection of the posterior liver surface was performed. The hepatophrenic tissue showed a stratigraphic organisation resulting from the juxtaposition of thin layer of dense connective tissue corresponding to the inferior diaphragmatic fascia (mean thickness is 30 ± 4 μm); variable amount of fibroadipose tissue corresponding to retroperitoneal fibroadipose tissue (mean thickness is 34 ± 8 μm); two connective layers with nets of flat cells forming a fusion fascia, the retrohepatic lamina (mean thickness 24 ± 6 μm); and layer of connective tissue corresponding to the hepatic capsule. The juxta-caval portion of the retrohepatic lamina, connecting the right and left sides of the caval groove, forms the inferior vena cava ligament. During dissection, fluid injection developed a preferential plane between the two layers of the retrohepatic lamina, close to the hepatic surface, and no major or minor vessels were ever found along this plane. During right hepatectomy, to reduce the risk of dissemination of tumour cells, the dissection plane should be performed between the two layers of the retrohepatic lamina.

The role of fasciae in Civinini–Morton's syndrome

PubMed Central

Stecco, Carla; Fantoni, Ilaria; Macchi, Veronica; Del Borrello, Mario; Porzionato, Andrea; Biz, Carlo; De Caro, Raffaele

2015-01-01

This study evaluates the pathogenetic role of the perineural connective tissue and foot fasciae in Civinini–Morton's neuroma. Eleven feet (seven male, four female; mean age: 70.9 years) were dissected to analyse the anatomy of inter-metatarsal space, particularly the dorsal and plantar fasciae and metatarsal transverse ligament (DMTL). The macrosections were prepared for microscopic analysis. Ten Civinini–Morton neuromas obtained from surgery were also analysed. Magnetic resonance images (MRIs) from 40 patients and 29 controls were compared. Dissections showed that the width of the inter-metatarsal space is established by two fibrous structures: the dorsal foot fascia and the DMTL, which, together, connect the metatarsal bones and resist their splaying. Interosseous muscles spread out into the dorsal fascia of the foot, defining its basal tension. The common digital plantar nerve (CDPN) is encased in concentric layers of fibrous and loose connective tissue, continuous with the vascular sheath and deep foot fascia. Outside this sheath, fibroelastic septa, from DMTL to plantar fascia, and little fat lobules are present, further protecting the nerve against compressive stress. The MRI study revealed high inter-individual variability in the forefoot structures, although only the thickness of the dorsal fascia represented a statistically significant difference between cases and controls. It was hypothesized that alterations in foot support and altered biomechanics act on the interosseous muscles, increasing the stiffness of the dorsal fascia, particularly at the points where these muscles are inserted. Chronic rigidity of this fascia increases the stiffness of the inter-metatarsal space, leading to entrapment of the CDPN. PMID:26467241

Trematode reproduction in the molluscan host: an ultrastructural study of the germinal mass in the rediae of Himasthla elongata (Mehlis, 1831) (Digenea: Echinostomatidae).

PubMed

Podvyaznaya, Irina M; Galaktionov, Kirill V

2014-03-01

The germinal mass in Himasthla elongata rediae was studied in detail using transmission electron microscopy. It was shown to be a specialized reproductive organ consisting of germinal cells at various maturation stages, supporting cells and stem cells. The germinal mass also contains early cercarial embryos emerging as a result of cleavage division of mature germinal cells. The stem cells that give rise to germinal cells have heterochromatin-rich nuclei with distinct nucleoli and scarce cytoplasm containing mainly free ribosomes and few mitochondria. The differentiating germinal cells undergo a growth, which is accompanied by an emergence of annulate lamellae and the nuage in their cytoplasm, a noticeable development of RER and Golgi apparatus and an increase in the number of mitochondria. The mitochondria form a large group at one of the cell poles. During differentiation, the nucleus and nucleolus of the germinal cell enlarge while the chromatin becomes gradually less condensed. The supporting tissue of the germinal mass is made up of cells connected by septate junctions. These supporting cells are distinctly different in cellular shape and nuclear ultrastructure. Their outgrowths form a tight meshwork housing stem cells, germinal cells and early cercarial embryos. The cytoplasm of the supporting cells in the mesh area is separated into fine parallel layers by labyrinthine narrow cavities communicating with the intercellular space. The supporting tissue contains differentiating and degenerating cells which indicates its renewal. The results of this ultrastructural study lend support to the hypothesis that the germinal cells of digeneans are germ line cells.

Non-interventional 1-year follow-up study of peri-implant soft tissues following previous soft tissue augmentation and crown insertion in single-tooth gaps.

PubMed

Huber, Samuel; Zeltner, Marco; Hämmerle, Christoph H F; Jung, Ronald E; Thoma, Daniel S

2018-04-01

To assess peri-implant soft tissue dimensions at implant sites, previously augmented with a collagen matrix (VCMX) or an autogenous subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG), between crown insertion and 1 year. Twenty patients with single-tooth implants received soft tissue augmentation prior to abutment connection randomly using VCMX or SCTG. Following abutment connection 3 months later, final reconstructions were fabricated and inserted (baseline). Patients were recalled at 6 months (6M) and at 1 year (FU-1). Measurements included clinical data, soft tissue thickness, volumetric outcomes and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). The buccal soft tissue thickness showed a median decrease of -0.5 mm (-1.0;0.3) (VCMX) and 0.0 mm (-0.5;1.0) (SCTG) (p = .243) up to FU-1. The soft tissue volume demonstrated a median decrease between BL and FU-1 of -0.1 mm (-0.2;0.0) (p = .301) for VCMX and a significant decrease of -0.2 mm (-0.4; -0.1) (p = .002) for SCTG, respectively. Intergroup comparisons did not reveal any significant differences between the groups for peri-implant soft tissue dimensions and changes up to FU-1 (p > .05). PROMs did not show any significant changes over time nor differences between the groups. Between crown insertion and 1 year, the buccal peri-implant soft tissue dimensions remained stable without relevant differences between sites that had previously been grafted with VCMX or SCTG. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Soft tissue volume alterations after connective tissue grafting at teeth: the subepithelial autologous connective tissue graft versus a porcine collagen matrix - a pre-clinical volumetric analysis.

PubMed

Schmitt, Christian M; Matta, Ragai E; Moest, Tobias; Humann, Julia; Gammel, Lisa; Neukam, Friedrich W; Schlegel, Karl A

2016-07-01

This study evaluates a porcine collagen matrix (CM) for soft tissue thickening in comparison to the subepithelial connective tissue graft (SCTG). In eight beagle dogs, soft tissue thickening was performed at the buccal aspects of the upper canines (SCTG and CM). Impressions were taken before augmentation (i1), after surgery (i2), after one (i3), three (i4) and ten month (i5). Casts were optically scanned with a 3D scanner and each augmented region (unit of analysis) evaluated (primary outcome variable: volume increase in mm(3) ; secondary outcome variables: volume increase in percent, mean and maximum thickness increases in mm). 3D tissue measurements after surgery revealed a significant higher volume increase in the CM (86.37 mm(3)  ± 35.16 mm(3) ) than in the SCTG group (47.65 mm(3)  ± 17.90 mm(3) ). After 10 months, volume increase was non-significant between groups (SCTG:11.36 mm(3)  ± 9.26 mm(3) ; CM: 8.67 mm(3)  ± 13.67 mm(3) ). Maximum soft tissue thickness increase (i1-i5) was 0.66 mm ± 0.29 mm (SCTG) and 0.79 mm ± 0.37 mm (CM) with no significant difference. Ten months after soft tissue thickening, the CM is statistically non-inferior to the SCTG in terms of soft tissue volume and thickness increase. Further 3D studies are needed to confirm the data. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Advanced glycation end-products: Mechanics of aged collagen from molecule to tissue.

PubMed

Gautieri, Alfonso; Passini, Fabian S; Silván, Unai; Guizar-Sicairos, Manuel; Carimati, Giulia; Volpi, Piero; Moretti, Matteo; Schoenhuber, Herbert; Redaelli, Alberto; Berli, Martin; Snedeker, Jess G

2017-05-01

Concurrent with a progressive loss of regenerative capacity, connective tissue aging is characterized by a progressive accumulation of Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs). Besides being part of the typical aging process, type II diabetics are particularly affected by AGE accumulation due to abnormally high levels of systemic glucose that increases the glycation rate of long-lived proteins such as collagen. Although AGEs are associated with a wide range of clinical disorders, the mechanisms by which AGEs contribute to connective tissue disease in aging and diabetes are still poorly understood. The present study harnesses advanced multiscale imaging techniques to characterize a widely employed in vitro model of ribose induced collagen aging and further benchmarks these data against experiments on native human tissues from donors of different age. These efforts yield unprecedented insight into the mechanical changes in collagen tissues across hierarchical scales from molecular, to fiber, to tissue-levels. We observed a linear increase in molecular spacing (from 1.45nm to 1.5nm) and a decrease in the D-period length (from 67.5nm to 67.1nm) in aged tissues, both using the ribose model of in vitro glycation and in native human probes. Multiscale mechanical analysis of in vitro glycated tendons strongly suggests that AGEs reduce tissue viscoelasticity by severely limiting fiber-fiber and fibril-fibril sliding. This study lays an important foundation for interpreting the functional and biological effects of AGEs in collagen connective tissues, by exploiting experimental models of AGEs crosslinking and benchmarking them for the first time against endogenous AGEs in native tissue. Copyright © 2016 International Society of Matrix Biology. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Possibility of Aggravation of Tissue Sclerosis after Injection of Multipotent Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Near the Forming Cicatrix in the Experiment.

PubMed

Maiborodin, I V; Morozov, V V; Anikeev, A A; Figurenko, N F; Maslov, R V; Matveeva, V A; Chastikina, G A; Maiborodina, V I

2017-08-01

The peculiarities of tissue sclerosis after injection of autologous bone marrow multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells transfected with GFP gene and stained with Vybrant CM-Dil cell membrane dye were studied by light microscopy with luminescence. The surgical intervention consisting in ligation of the great vein was followed by tissue sclerotic transformation caused by direct damage and chronic inflammation caused by the presence of slowly resorbed ligature. Injection of stromal cells after this intervention led to formation of more extensive scar. This can attest to the possibility of stromal cells differentiation into connective tissue cells, fibroblasts, and stimulation of proliferation and collagen synthesis by host fibroblasts. A decrease in the volume of dense fibrous connective tissue due to scar reorganization at latter terms cannot not excluded.

Use of the tunnel technique and an acellular dermal matrix in the treatment of multiple adjacent teeth with gingival recession in the esthetic zone.

PubMed

Mahn, Douglas H

2010-12-01

The proper management of gingival recession is critical to the establishment of a natural-appearing soft tissue architecture. Subepithelial connective tissue grafts have been considered the "gold standard" but are limited by the availability of palatal donor tissue. Tunnel techniques have improved the esthetic results of connective tissue grafting. Acellular dermal matrices have been successful in the treatment of gingival recession and are not limited by the palatal anatomy. The aim of this report is to describe the application of the tunnel technique, with use of an acellular dermal matrix, in the correction of gingival recession affecting multiple adjacent teeth in the esthetic zone.

Topological and organizational properties of the products of house-keeping and tissue-specific genes in protein-protein interaction networks.

PubMed

Lin, Wen-Hsien; Liu, Wei-Chung; Hwang, Ming-Jing

2009-03-11

Human cells of various tissue types differ greatly in morphology despite having the same set of genetic information. Some genes are expressed in all cell types to perform house-keeping functions, while some are selectively expressed to perform tissue-specific functions. In this study, we wished to elucidate how proteins encoded by human house-keeping genes and tissue-specific genes are organized in human protein-protein interaction networks. We constructed protein-protein interaction networks for different tissue types using two gene expression datasets and one protein-protein interaction database. We then calculated three network indices of topological importance, the degree, closeness, and betweenness centralities, to measure the network position of proteins encoded by house-keeping and tissue-specific genes, and quantified their local connectivity structure. Compared to a random selection of proteins, house-keeping gene-encoded proteins tended to have a greater number of directly interacting neighbors and occupy network positions in several shortest paths of interaction between protein pairs, whereas tissue-specific gene-encoded proteins did not. In addition, house-keeping gene-encoded proteins tended to connect with other house-keeping gene-encoded proteins in all tissue types, whereas tissue-specific gene-encoded proteins also tended to connect with other tissue-specific gene-encoded proteins, but only in approximately half of the tissue types examined. Our analysis showed that house-keeping gene-encoded proteins tend to occupy important network positions, while those encoded by tissue-specific genes do not. The biological implications of our findings were discussed and we proposed a hypothesis regarding how cells organize their protein tools in protein-protein interaction networks. Our results led us to speculate that house-keeping gene-encoded proteins might form a core in human protein-protein interaction networks, while clusters of tissue-specific gene-encoded proteins are attached to the core at more peripheral positions of the networks.

Clinical Comparison of Full and Partial Double Pedicle Flaps with Connective Tissue Grafts for Treatment of Gingival Recession

PubMed Central

Ranjbari, Ardeshir; Gholami, Gholam Ali; Amid, Reza; Kadkhodazadeh, Mahdi; Youssefi, Navid; Mehdizadeh, Amir Reza; Aghaloo, Maryam

2016-01-01

Statement of the Problem Gingival recession has been considered as the most challenging issue in the field of periodontal plastic surgery. Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of root coverage procedures by using partial thickness double pedicle graft and compare it with full thickness double pedicle graft. Materials and Method Eight patients, aged 15 to 58 years including 6 females and 2 males with 20 paired (mirror image) defects with class I and II gingival recession were randomly assigned into two groups. Clinical parameters such as recession depth, recession width, clinical attachment level, probing depth, and width of keratinized tissue were measured at the baseline and 6 months post-surgery. A mucosal double papillary flap was elevated and the respective root was thoroughly planed. The connective tissue graft was harvested from the palate, and then adapted over the root. The pedicle flap was secured over the connective tissue graft and sutured. The surgical technique was similar in the control group except for the prepared double pedicle graft which was full thickness. Results The mean root coverage was 88.14% (2.83 mm) in the test group and 85.7% (2.75 mm) in the control group. No statistical differences were found in the mean reduction of vertical recession, width of recession, or probing depth between the test and control groups. In both procedures, the width of keratinized tissue increased after three months and the difference between the two groups was not statistically significant in this respect. Conclusion Connective tissue with partial and full thickness double pedicle grafts can be successfully used for treatment of marginal gingival recession. PMID:27602394

Improvement in skin elasticity in the treatment of cellulite and connective tissue weakness by means of extracorporeal pulse activation therapy.

PubMed

Christ, Christophe; Brenke, Rainer; Sattler, Gerhard; Siems, Werner; Novak, Pavel; Daser, A

2008-01-01

Extracorporeal pulse activation therapy (EPAT), also called extracorporeal acoustic wave therapy, seeks to achieve effective and long-lasting improvement of age-related connective tissue weakness in the extremities, especially in the treatment of unsightly cosmetic skin defects referred to as cellulite. The objective of this study was to stimulate metabolic activity in subcutaneous fat tissue by means of EPAT in order evaluate its effectiveness in enhancing connective tissue firmness and improving skin texture and structure. Fifty-nine women with advanced cellulite were divided into 2 groups; one group of 15 patients received planar acoustic wave treatment for 6 therapy sessions within 3 weeks; a second group of 44 patients received 8 therapy sessions within 4 weeks. Changes in connective tissue were evaluated using the DermaScan C ultrasound system (Cortex Technology, Hadsund, Denmark). Skin elasticity measurements were performed using the DermaLab system (Cortex Technology). Photographs of treated areas were taken at each therapy session and at follow-up sessions. Skin elasticity values gradually improved over the course of EPAT therapy and revealed a 73% increase at the end of therapy. At 3- and 6-month follow-ups, skin elasticity had even improved by 95% and 105%, respectively. Side effects included minor pain for 3 patients during therapy and slight skin reddening. This study confirmed the effects of acoustic wave therapy on biologic tissue, including stimulation of microcirculation and improvement of cell permeability. Ultrasound evaluation demonstrated increased density and firmness in the network of collagen/elastic fibers in the dermis and subcutis. Treatment was most effective in older patients with a long history of cellulite.

Effect of defective collagen synthesis on epithelial implant interface: lathyritic model in dogs. An experimental preliminary study.

PubMed

Cengiz, Murat Inanç; Kirtiloğlu, Tuğrul; Acikgoz, Gökhan; Trisi, Paolo; Wang, Hom-Lay

2012-04-01

Peri-implant mucosa is composed of 2 compartments: a marginal junctional epithelium and a zone of connective tissue attachment. Both structures consist mainly of collagen. Lathyrism is characterized by defective collagen synthesis due to inhibition of lysyl oxidase, an enzyme that is essential for interfibrillar collagen cross-linking. The lathyritic agent beta-aminoproprionitrile (β-APN) is considered a suitable agent to disrupt the connective tissue metabolism. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the effect of defective connective tissue metabolism on epithelial implant interface by using β-APN created chronic lathyrism in the canine model. Two 1-year-old male dogs were included in this study. A β-APN dosage of 5 mg/0.4 mL/volume 100 g/body weight was given to the test dog for 10 months, until lathyritic symptoms developed. After this, the mandibular premolar teeth (p2, p3, p4) of both dogs were atraumatically extracted, and the investigators waited 3 months before implants were placed. In the test dog, 3 implants were placed in the left mandible, and 2 implants were placed in the right mandible. In the control dog, 2 implants were placed in the left mandibular premolar site. The dogs were sacrificed 10 months after healing. Peri-implant tissues obtained from the dogs were examined histomorphologically and histopathologically. Bone to implant contact (BIC) values and bone volumes (BV) were lower in the lathyritic group compared to the control group; however, no statistical significance was found. Significant histologic and histomorphometric changes were observed in peri-implant bone, connective tissue, and peri-implant mucosal width between test and control implants. Defective collagen metabolism such as lathyrism may negatively influence the interface between implant and surrounding soft tissue attachment.

Preliminary results of scientific research on biosatellite Kosmos-1129

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1980-01-01

The first physiological study aimed at deeper examination mechanisms of weightlessness and adaptation/readaptation is described. It dealt with metabolism, support motor changes and nonspecific changes connected with stress reaction. Wistar rats were used in a triple setup: flight/vivarium/biosatellite mockup. Animal condition was assessed on motor activity and body temperature. Extensive tables show weight, blood and enzyme analysis, etc. Animals groups were labeled: stress, behavior, body composition, biorhythm, ontogenesis. The second or biological study dealt with tumorous carrot tissues but humidity control was defective: some indices are reported such as cell membrane permeability, tissue respiration, etc. It also was concerned with a fowl embryogenetic experiment (Japanese quail) but mechanical effects on landing reduced its success. The third study, on radiation dosimetry, presents a little tabulated data but chiefly gives lists of satellite detector units of different kinds and from different countries.

Preliminary results of scientific research on biosatellite KOSMOS-1129

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

Not Available

1980-08-01

The first physiological study aimed at deeper examination mechanisms of weightlessness and adaptation/readaptation is described. It dealt with metabolism, support motor changes and nonspecific changes connected with stress reaction. Wistar rats were used in a triple setup: flight/vivarium/biosatellite mockup. Animal condition was assessed on motor activity and body temperature. Extensive tables show weight, blood and enzyme analysis, etc. Animals groups were labeled: stress, behavior, body composition, biorhythm, ontogenesis. The second or biological study dealt with tumorous carrot tissues but humidity control was defective: some indices are reported such as cell membrane permeability, tissue respiration, etc. It also was concerned withmore » a fowl embryogenetic experiment (Japanese quail) but mechanical effects on landing reduced its success. The third study, on radiation dosimetry, presents a little tabulated data but chiefly gives lists of satellite detector units of different kinds and from different countries.« less

Advanced glycation products' levels and mechanical properties of vaginal tissue in pregnancy.

PubMed

Weli, Homayemem K; Akhtar, Riaz; Chang, Zhuo; Li, Wen-Wu; Cooper, Jason; Yang, Ying

2017-07-01

Non-enzymatic glycation is closely associated with altered mechanical properties of connective tissue. Pregnancy, marked with high levels of female hormones, confers unique alteration to the mechanical properties of pelvic connective tissues in order to meet their physiological demands. However, there are few studies on glycation content and its influence on the mechanical properties of pelvic connective tissues during pregnancy. We hypothesise that the glycation content in pelvic tissues will change with a corresponding alteration in their mechanical properties, and that these changes are influenced by hormone levels. This study aims to investigate the correlation of vaginal tissue glycation content and mechanical property changes during pregnancy in association with the expression of a key pregnancy hormone (oestrogen) receptor, and an antioxidant enzyme, glyoxalase I. A rat vaginal tissue model (tissues from non-pregnant and E15-E18 (last trimester) pregnant rats) was used in this study. Mechanical characteristics of vaginal tissues were analysed by a ball-indentation technique while modulus and morphology of the collagen fibrils within the tissues were measured with atomic force microscopy. A glycation marker, pentosidine, was quantified by a high performance liquid chromatography. The expression of oestrogen receptor and glyoxalase I in the tissue was qualified by immunochemical staining. The glycosaminoglycan (GAG) concentration difference in the tissues were quantified by a biochemical assay. Pregnant rat vaginal tissue was characterised by significantly lower amounts of pentosidine, higher oestrogen receptor and glyoxalase I expression with larger creep, lower elastic modulus, larger fibril diameter and higher GAG content than their non-pregnant counterpart. There was a negative correlation between pentosidine and vaginal tissue creep. There was a reduction in vaginal tissue pentosidine in pregnancy with an associated increase in oestrogen receptor and glyoxalase I immunoexpression. Reduced glycation was associated with increased creeping of vaginal tissue. Oestrogen may therefore play a role in the increase of the vaginal wall's capacity to stretch through glyoxalase I up-regulation and subsequent glycation reduction. The new insight of the correlation of women's oestrogen level, glycation reaction and pelvic tissue mechanical property from this study may enhance our understanding of some pelvic organ diseases. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[MCTD--mixed connective tissue disease].

PubMed

Haustein, Uwe-Frithjof

2005-02-01

Mixed connective tissue disease is a disease entity characterized by overlapping symptoms of lupus erythematosus (LE), systemic sclerosis (SSc), polymyositis/dermatomyositis (PM/DM) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Diagnostic criteria include high titers of antibodies against U1RNP as well as the presence of at least 3 of 5 of the following clinical features: edema of hands, synovitis, myositis, Raynaud phenomenon and acroscierosis. In terms of the pathogenesis, genetic as well as infectious (viral) factors appear to play a role. The acceptance of MCTD as a distinct disease entity is controversial. Terms such as "undifferentiated connective tissue disease" or "overlapping syndromes" are not helpful. One-quarter of MCTD patients transform into LE, while one-third progress to SSc. Therapeutic recommendations are glucocorticoids in combination with immunosuppressive agents and endothelin receptor antagonists. Double blind studies are not available. The prognosis is relatively good. Causes of death include pulmonary hypertension, infections and both pulmonary and cardiac failure.

Reference spectra from squamous epithelium and connective tissue allow whole section proteomics analysis.

PubMed

Roesch-Ely, Mariana; Schnölzer, Martina; Nees, Matthias; Plinkert, Peter K; Bosch, Franz X

2010-01-01

We reasoned that micro-dissection of tumour cells for protein expression studies should be omitted since tumour-stroma interactions are an important part of the biology of solid tumours. To study such interactions in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) development, we generated reference protein spectra for normal squamous epithelium and connective tissue by SELDI-TOF-MS. Calgranulins A and B, Annexin1 and Histone H4 were found to be strongly enriched in the epithelium. The alpha-defensins 1-3 and the haemoglobin subunits were identified in the connective tissue. Tumour-distant epithelia, representing early pre-malignant lesions, showed up-regulated expression of the stromal alpha-defensins, whereas the epithelial Annexin 1 was down-regulated. Thus, tumour microenvironment interactions occur very early in the carcinogenic process. These data demonstrate that omitting micro-dissection is actually beneficial for studying changes in protein expression during development and progression of solid tumours.

Degenerative alterations of the cementum-periodontal ligament complex and early tooth loss in a young patient with periodontal disease.

PubMed

Petruţiu, S A; Buiga, Petronela; Roman, Alexandra; Danciu, Theodora; Mihu, Carmen Mihaela; Mihu, D

2012-01-01

Premature exfoliation of primary or permanent teeth in children or adolescents is extremely rare and it can be a manifestation of an underlying systemic disease. This study aims to present the histological aspects associated with early tooth loss in a case of periodontal disease developed without local inflammation and with minimal periodontal pockets and attachment loss. The maxillary left second premolar was extracted together with a gingival collar attached to the root surface. The histological analysis recorded the resorption of the cementum in multiple areas of the entire root surface with the connective tissue of the desmodontium invading the lacunae defects. The connective tissue rich in cells occupied the periodontal ligamentar space and the resorptive areas. No inflammation was obvious in the periodontal ligament connective tissue. This report may warn clinicians about the possibility of the association of cemental abnormalities with early tooth loss.

[Systemic lupus erythematosus masking the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome. A report on four cases].

PubMed

Kotyla, Przemysław; Kucharz, Eugeniusz J

2012-01-01

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a systemic inflammatory disease of connective tissue with an unknown etiology and a rich clinical picture with involvement of multiple organs. Given the rich symptomatology, application of the current classification criteria is associated with a significant risk of attributing symptoms of other pathologies to lupus and/or other connective tissue disease. Inherited and acquired immune deficiencies may sometimes demonstrate a lupus-like clinical symptomatology. In this work we reviewed 4 of cases referred to the Department of Internal Diseases and Rheumatology of the Silesian Medical University in Katowice with suspected or confirmed systemic lupus erythematosus. A positive anti-HIV antibody test led to the diagnosis of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Due to the close similarity of the clinical picture and the presence of antinuclear antibodies in both diseases, the authors postulate that the anti-HIV antibody test should be done routinely in patients with connective tissue diseases.

[Study of collagen and elastic fibers of connective tissue in patients with and without primary inguinal hernia].

PubMed

Bórquez, Pablo; Garrido, Luis; Manterola, Carlos; Peña, Patricio; Schlageter, Carol; Orellana, Juan José; Ulloa, Hugo; Peña, Juan Luis

2003-11-01

There are few studies looking for collagen matrix defects in patients with inguinal bernia. To study the skin connective tissue in patients with and without inguinal bernia. Skin from the surgical wound was obtained from 23 patients with and 23 patients without inguinal bernia. The samples were processed for conventional light microscopy. Collagen fibers were stained with Van Giesson and elastic fibers with Weigert stain. Patients without hernia had compact collagen tracts homogeneously distributed towards the deep dermis. In contrast, patients with hernia had zones in the dermis with thinner and disaggregated collagen tracts. Connective tissue had a lax aspect in these patients. Collagen fiber density was 52% lower in patients with hernia, compared to subjects without hernia. No differences in elastic fiber density or distribution was observed between groups. Patients with inguinal bernia have alterations in skin collagen fiber quality and density.

Group D. Initiator paper. Implants--peri-implant (hard and soft tissue) interactions in health and disease: the impact of explosion of implant manufacturers.

PubMed

Ivanovski, Saso

2015-01-01

1. The best-documented implants have a threaded solid screw-type design and are manufactured from commercially pure (grade IV) titanium. There is good evidence to support implants ≥ 6 mm in length, and ≥ 3 mm in diameter. 2. Integrity of the seal between the abutment and the implant is important for several reasons, including minimization of mechanical and biological complications and maintaining marginal bone levels. Although the ideal design features of the implant-abutment connection have not been determined, an internal connection, micro-grooves at the implant collar, and horizontal offset of the implant-abutment junction (platform switch) appear to impart favorable properties. 3. Implants with moderately rough implant surfaces provide advantages over machined surfaces in terms of the speed and extent of osseointegration. While the favorable performances of both minimally and moderately rough surfaces are supported by long-term data, moderately rough surfaces provide superior outcomes in compromised sites, such as the posterior maxilla. 4. Although plaque is critical in the progression of peri-implantitis, the disease has a multi-factorial aetiology, and may be influenced by poor integrity of the abutment/implant connection. Iatrogenic factors, such as the introduction of a foreign body. (e.g., cement) below the mucosal margin, can be important contributors. 5. Clinicians should exercise caution when using a particular implant system, ensuring that the implant design is appropriate and supported by scientific evidence. Central to this is access to and participation in quality education on the impact that implant characteristics can have on clinical outcomes. Caution should be exercised in utilizing non-genuine restorative componentry that may lead to a poor implant-abutment fit and subsequent technical and biological complications.

Tissue Engineering Strategies for the Tendon/ligament-to-bone insertion

PubMed Central

Smith, Lester; Xia, Younan; Galatz, Leesa M.; Genin, Guy M.; Thomopoulos, Stavros

2012-01-01

Injuries to connective tissues are painful and disabling and result in costly medical expenses. These injuries often require re-attachment of an unmineralized connective tissue to bone. The uninjured tendon/ligament-to-bone insertion (enthesis) is a functionally graded material that exhibits a gradual transition from soft tissue (i.e., tendon or ligament) to hard tissue (i.e., mineralized bone) through a fibrocartilaginous transition region. This transition is believed to facilitate force transmission between the two dissimilar tissues by ameliorating potentially damaging interfacial stress concentrations. The transition region is impaired or lost upon tendon/ligament injury and is not regenerated following surgical repair or natural healing, exposing the tissue to risk of re-injury. The need to regenerate a robust tendon-to-bone insertion has led a number of tissue engineering repair strategies. This review treats the tendon-to-bone insertion site as a tissue structure whose primary role is mechanical and discusses current and emerging strategies for engineering the tendon/ligament-to-bone insertion in this context. The focus lies on strategies for producing mechanical structures that can guide and subsequently sustain a graded tissue structure and the associated cell populations. PMID:22185608

Tissue-engineering strategies for the tendon/ligament-to-bone insertion.

PubMed

Smith, Lester; Xia, Younan; Galatz, Leesa M; Genin, Guy M; Thomopoulos, Stavros

2012-01-01

Injuries to connective tissues are painful and disabling and result in costly medical expenses. These injuries often require reattachment of an unmineralized connective tissue to bone. The uninjured tendon/ligament-to-bone insertion (enthesis) is a functionally graded material that exhibits a gradual transition from soft tissue (i.e., tendon or ligament) to hard tissue (i.e., mineralized bone) through a fibrocartilaginous transition region. This transition is believed to facilitate force transmission between the two dissimilar tissues by ameliorating potentially damaging interfacial stress concentrations. The transition region is impaired or lost upon tendon/ligament injury and is not regenerated following surgical repair or natural healing, exposing the tissue to risk of reinjury. The need to regenerate a robust tendon-to-bone insertion has led a number of tissue engineering repair strategies. This review treats the tendon-to-bone insertion site as a tissue structure whose primary role is mechanical and discusses current and emerging strategies for engineering the tendon/ligament-to-bone insertion in this context. The focus lies on strategies for producing mechanical structures that can guide and subsequently sustain a graded tissue structure and the associated cell populations.

[Treatment of postburn and postoperative cicatrices using karipaine cream preparations and karipaine ultra gel].

PubMed

Zhernov, O A; Osadcha, O I; Zhernov, A O; Nazarenko, V M; Staskevych, S V

2011-07-01

Peculiarities of the burn wound course and the cicatricial tissue formation are shown. Clinical efficacy of application of cream Karipaine and gel Karipaine Ultra was proved, witnessed by improvement of the cell to tissue interaction as well as the connective tissue metabolism and the cicatricial tissue reconstruction.

Changes of the peri-implant soft tissue thickness after grafting with a collagen matrix.

PubMed

Zafiropoulos, Gregory-George; Deli, Giorgio; Hoffmann, Oliver; John, Gordon

2016-01-01

The aim of this study was to determine the treatment outcome of the use of a porcine monolayer collagen matrix (mCM) to increase soft-tissue volume as a part of implant site development. Implants were placed in single sites in 27 patients. In the test group, mCM was used for soft-tissue augmentation. No graft was placed in the control group. Soft-tissue thickness (STTh) was measured at the time of surgery (T0) and 6 months postoperatively (T1) at two sites (STTh 1, 1 mm below the gingival margin; STTh 2, 3 mm below the mucogingival margin). Significant increases ( P < 0.001) in STTh (STTh 1 = 1.06 mm, 117%; STTh 2 = 0.89 mm, 81%) were observed in the test group. Biopsy results showed angiogenesis and mature connective tissue covered by keratinized epithelium. Within the limitations of this study, it could be concluded that mCM leads to a significant increase of peri-implant soft-tissue thickness, with good histological integration and replacement by soft tissue and may serve as an alternative to connective tissue grafting.

Formation of bone-like mineralized matrix by periodontal ligament cells in vivo: a morphological study in rats.

PubMed

Hiraga, Toru; Ninomiya, Tadashi; Hosoya, Akihiro; Takahashi, Masafumi; Nakamura, Hiroaki

2009-01-01

Periodontal ligament (PDL) is a unique connective tissue that not only connects cementum and alveolar bone to support teeth, but also plays an important role in reconstructing periodontal tissues. Previous studies have suggested that PDL cells have osteogenic potential; however, they lack precise histological examinations. Here, we studied bone-like matrix formation by PDL cells in rats using morphological techniques. Rat and human PDL cells exhibited substantial alkaline phosphatase activity and induced mineralization in vitro. RT-PCR analyses showed that PDL cells expressed the osteoblast markers, Runx2, osterix, and osteocalcin. These results suggest that PDL cells share similar phenotypes with osteoblasts. To examine the bone-like matrix formation in vivo, PDL cells isolated from green fluorescent protein (GFP)-transgenic rats were inoculated with hydroxyapatite (HA) disks into wild-type rats. Five weeks after the implantation, the pores in HA disks were occupied by GFP-positive cells. Mineralized matrix formation was also found on the surface of HA pores. At 12 weeks, some of the pores were filled with bone-like mineralized matrices (BLMM), which were positive for the bone matrix proteins, osteopontin, bone sialoprotein, and osteocalcin. Immunohistochemical examination revealed that most of the osteoblast- and osteocyte-like cells on or in the BLMM were GFP-positive, suggesting that the BLMM were directly formed by the inoculated PDL cells. On the pore surfaces, Sharpey's fiber-like structures embedded in cementum-like mineralized layers were also observed. These results collectively suggest that PDL cells have the ability to form periodontal tissues and could be a useful source for regenerative therapies of periodontal diseases.

76 FR 2755 - Proposed Information Collection (Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post...

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2011-01-14

... (Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Statement in Support of Claim for Service Connection for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Secondary to... to substantiate claims for service connection post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). DATES: Written...

A bioreactor test system to mimic the biological and mechanical environment of oral soft tissues and to evaluate substitutes for connective tissue grafts.

PubMed

Mathes, Stephanie H; Wohlwend, Lorenz; Uebersax, Lorenz; von Mentlen, Roger; Thoma, Daniel S; Jung, Ronald E; Görlach, Christoph; Graf-Hausner, Ursula

2010-12-15

Gingival cells of the oral connective tissue are exposed to complex mechanical forces during mastication, speech, tooth movement and orthodontic treatments. Especially during wound healing following surgical procedures, internal and external forces may occur, creating pressure upon the newly formed tissue. This clinical situation has to be considered when developing biomaterials to augment soft tissue in the oral cavity. In order to pre-evaluate a collagen sponge intended to serve as a substitute for autogenous connective tissue grafts (CTGs), a dynamic bioreactor system was developed. Pressure and shear forces can be applied in this bioreactor in addition to a constant medium perfusion to cell-material constructs. Three-dimensional volume changes and stiffness of the matrices were analyzed. In addition, cell responses such as cell vitality and extracellular matrix (ECM) production were investigated. The number of metabolic active cells constantly increased under fully dynamic culture conditions. The sponges remained elastic even after mechanical forces were applied for 14 days. Analysis of collagen type I and fibronectin revealed a statistically significant accumulation of these ECM molecules (P < 0.05-0.001) when compared to static cultures. An increased expression of tenascin-c, indicating tissue remodeling processes, was observed under dynamic conditions only. The results indicate that the tested in vitro cell culture system was able to mimic both the biological and mechanical environments of the clinical situation in a healing wound. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Soft tissue engineering with micronized-gingival connective tissues.

PubMed

Noda, Sawako; Sumita, Yoshinori; Ohba, Seigo; Yamamoto, Hideyuki; Asahina, Izumi

2018-01-01

The free gingival graft (FGG) and connective tissue graft (CTG) are currently considered to be the gold standards for keratinized gingival tissue reconstruction and augmentation. However, these procedures have some disadvantages in harvesting large grafts, such as donor-site morbidity as well as insufficient gingival width and thickness at the recipient site post-treatment. To solve these problems, we focused on an alternative strategy using micronized tissue transplantation (micro-graft). In this study, we first investigated whether transplantation of micronized gingival connective tissues (MGCTs) promotes skin wound healing. MGCTs (≤100 µm) were obtained by mincing a small piece (8 mm 3 ) of porcine keratinized gingiva using the RIGENERA system. The MGCTs were then transplanted to a full skin defect (5 mm in diameter) on the dorsal surface of immunodeficient mice after seeding to an atelocollagen matrix. Transplantations of atelocollagen matrixes with and without micronized dermis were employed as experimental controls. The results indicated that MGCTs markedly promote the vascularization and epithelialization of the defect area 14 days after transplantation compared to the experimental controls. After 21 days, complete wound closure with low contraction was obtained only in the MGCT grafts. Tracking analysis of transplanted MGCTs revealed that some mesenchymal cells derived from MGCTs can survive during healing and may function to assist in wound healing. We propose here that micro-grafting with MGCTs represents an alternative strategy for keratinized tissue reconstruction that is characterized by low morbidity and ready availability. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Morphology and ultrastructure of the esophagus during the ontogeny of the spider crab Maja brachydactyla (Decapoda, Brachyura, Majidae).

PubMed

Castejón, Diego; Rotllant, Guiomar; Ribes, Enric; Durfort, Mercè; Guerao, Guillermo

2018-06-01

The esophagus of the eucrustaceans is known as a short tube that connects the mouth with the stomach but has generally received little attention by the carcinologists, especially during the larval stages. By this reason, the present study is focused on the morphology and ultrastructure of the esophagus in the brachyuran Maja brachydactyla during the larval development and adult stage. The esophagus shows internally four longitudinal folds. The simple columnar epithelium is covered by a thick cuticle. The epithelial cells of the adults are intensively interdigitated and show abundant apical mitochondria and bundles of filamentous structures. The cuticle surface has microspines and mutually exclusive pores. Three muscle layers surrounded by the connective tissue are reported: circular muscles forming a broad continuous band, longitudinal muscle bundles adjacent to the circular muscles, and dilator muscles crossing the connective tissue vertically toward the epithelium. The connective tissue has rosette glands. The esophagus of the larvae have epithelial cells with big vesicles but poorly developed interdigitations and filamentous structures, the cuticle is formed by a procuticle without differentiated exocuticle and endocuticle, the connective layer is thin and the rosette glands are absent. The observed features can be explained by his role in the swallowing of the food. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Thalamotemporal impairment in temporal lobe epilepsy: a combined MRI analysis of structure, integrity, and connectivity.

PubMed

Keller, Simon S; O'Muircheartaigh, Jonathan; Traynor, Catherine; Towgood, Karren; Barker, Gareth J; Richardson, Mark P

2014-02-01

Thalamic abnormality in temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is well known from imaging studies, but evidence is lacking regarding connectivity profiles of the thalamus and their involvement in the disease process. We used a novel multisequence magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) protocol to elucidate the relationship between mesial temporal and thalamic pathology in TLE. For 23 patients with TLE and 23 healthy controls, we performed T1 -weighted (for analysis of tissue structure), diffusion tensor imaging (tissue connectivity), and T1 and T2 relaxation (tissue integrity) MRI across the whole brain. We used connectivity-based segmentation to determine connectivity patterns of thalamus to ipsilateral cortical regions (occipital, parietal, prefrontal, postcentral, precentral, and temporal). We subsequently determined volumes, mean tractography streamlines, and mean T1 and T2 relaxometry values for each thalamic segment preferentially connecting to a given cortical region, and of the hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. As expected, patients had significant volume reduction and increased T2 relaxation time in ipsilateral hippocampus and entorhinal cortex. There was bilateral volume loss, mean streamline reduction, and T2 increase of the thalamic segment preferentially connected to temporal lobe, corresponding to anterior, dorsomedial, and pulvinar thalamic regions, with no evidence of significant change in any other thalamic segments. Left and right thalamotemporal segment volume and T2 were significantly correlated with volume and T2 of ipsilateral (epileptogenic), but not contralateral (nonepileptogenic), mesial temporal structures. These convergent and robust data indicate that thalamic abnormality in TLE is restricted to the area of the thalamus that is preferentially connected to the epileptogenic temporal lobe. The degree of thalamic pathology is related to the extent of mesial temporal lobe damage in TLE. © 2014 The Authors. Epilepsia published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International League Against Epilepsy.

Assessment of Hepatic Fibrosis with the Stiffness of Liver and the Dynamic of Blood in Liver

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Hao; Ye, Lihong; Li, Zhenyan; Jiang, Yi

Cirrhosis affects liver functions, and is a significant public health problem. Early stages of liver fibrosis are difficult to diagnose. The mechanism of fibrosis changing the mechanical properties of the liver tissue and altering the dynamic of blood flow is still unclear. In collaboration with clinicians specialized in hepatic fibrosis, we have developed a mechanical model to integrate our empirical understanding of fibrosis development and connect the fibrosis stage to mechanical properties of tissue and the consequential blood flow pattern changes. We modeled toxin distribution in the liver that leads to tissue damage and collagen deposition. We showed that the excessive collagen forms polygonal patterns, resembling those found in pathology images. Treating the collagen bundles as elastic spring networks, we also showed a nonlinear relationship between liver stiffness and fibrosis stage, which is consistent with experimental observations. We further modeled the stiffness affecting the mechanical properties of the portal veins, resulting in altered blood flow pattern. These results are supported by ultrasound Doppler measurements from hepatic fibrosis patients. These results promise a new noninvasive diagnostic tool for early fibrosis.

Differential immunoglobulin class-mediated responses to components of the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle in systemic lupus erythematosus and mixed connective tissue disease.

PubMed

Mesa, A; Somarelli, J A; Wu, W; Martinez, L; Blom, M B; Greidinger, E L; Herrera, R J

2013-11-01

The objective of this paper is to determine whether patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) possess differential IgM- and IgG-specific reactivity against peptides from the U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particle (U1 snRNP). The IgM- and IgG-mediated responses against 15 peptides from subunits of the U1 snRNP were assessed by indirect enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) in sera from patients with SLE and MCTD and healthy individuals (n = 81, 41, and 31, respectively). Additionally, 42 laboratory tests and 40 clinical symptoms were evaluated to uncover potential differences. Binomial logistic regression analyses (BLR) were performed to construct models to support the independent nature of SLE and MCTD. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves corroborated the classification power of the models. We analyzed IgM and IgG anti-U1 snRNP titers to classify SLE and MCTD patients. IgG anti-U1 snRNP reactivity segregates SLE and MCTD from nondisease controls with an accuracy of 94.1% while IgM-specific anti-U1 snRNP responses distinguish SLE from MCTD patients with an accuracy of 71.3%. Comparison of the IgG and IgM anti-U1 snRNP approach with clinical tests used for diagnosing SLE and MCTD revealed that our method is the best classification tool of those analyzed (p ≤ 0.0001). Our IgM anti-U1 snRNP system along with lab tests and symptoms provide additional molecular and clinical evidence to support the hypothesis that SLE and MCTD may be distinct syndromes.

Use of a new collagen matrix (mucograft) for the treatment of multiple gingival recessions: case reports.

PubMed

Rotundo, Roberto; Pini-Prato, Giovanpaolo

2012-08-01

The aim of this case report study was to demonstrate the use of a new collagen matrix as an alternative to the connective tissue graft for the treatment of multiple gingival recessions. Three women showing 11 maxillary gingival recessions were treated by means of the envelope flap technique associated with a novel collagen matrix as a substitute for the connective tissue graft. At 1 year, complete root coverage was achieved in 9 treated sites, with a mean keratinized tissue width of 3.1 mm, complete resolution of dental hypersensitivity, and a high level of esthetic satisfaction.

47 CFR 54.602 - Health care support mechanism.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

...) Healthcare Connect Fund. Eligible health care providers may request support for eligible services, equipment... and §§ 54.630 through 54.680. This support is referred to as the “Healthcare Connect Fund.” (c... receive support from the Telecommunications Program or the Healthcare Connect Fund must be reasonably...

The Reaction and Regeneration of Cementum in Various Pathological Conditions : (Section of Odontology).

PubMed

Stones, H H

1934-04-01

(1) The reaction of cementum and its adjoining tissues to induced pathological conditions associated with the gingival sulcus is described.(2) After subjecting the sulcus to interference, its histological appearance is compared with that of definite parodontal disease.(3) Various methods were adopted for these experiments, which were performed on monkeys.(4) Artificial pockets were produced by detaching the subgingival epithelium and underlying connective tissue from the cementum. (a) Cementum is easily removed accidentally, when scraping monkeys' teeth. (b) Reattachment of connective tissues to cementum is effected, but is usually incomplete. (c) Epithelium always firmly reunites with cementum. (d) The artificial sulcus which is usually deeper than normal does not show, microscopically, the same pathological changes as in parodontal disease.(5) In other experiments, in addition to deepening the sulcus, the cementum lining the pockets was also removed, leaving denuded dentine in contact with the connective tissue. A similar condition was achieved by another method in which a dental bur was inserted between two teeth below the gum margin. (a) The gingival epithelium is capable of forming a weak attachment to the dentine, though this does not usually occur. It always proliferates down and unites with the nearest layer of cementum. It seems to have a peculiar affinity for this tissue. (b) Underlying connective tissue does not usually unite with the dentine. When this happens it is effected by the regeneration of cementum, this new tissue being lined by new cementoblasts. (c) The width of the periodontal membrane, which was increased by the experiment, is reduced to a more normal level by deposition of new alveolar bone, and to a lesser extent by regeneration of cementum. (d) In this series of experiments the artificial pocket is permanent and somewhat resembles that of parodontal disease. This is probably due, not so much to the injury, but to its effects creating a space which forms an area of chronic stagnation.

Extensive keratinized tissue augmentation during implant rehabilitation after Le Fort I osteotomy: using a new porcine collagen membrane (Mucoderm).

PubMed

Nocini, Pier Francesco; Castellani, Roberto; Zanotti, Guglielmo; Gelpi, Federico; Covani, Ugo; Marconcini, Simone; de Santis, Daniele

2014-05-01

The aim of this study was to test a new collagen matrix (Mucoderm) positioned during oral implant abutment connection. A patient previously treated with Le Fort I for bone augmentation and 8 implants showing minimal amount of keratinized tissue was selected for an extensive keratinized tissue augmentation and deepening of the oral vestibule by apically positioning a split palatal flap and palatal grafting with Mucoderm. Clinical data at 9 and 14 days and 1 and 2 months showed resorption of the collagen graft, augmentation of the keratinized tissue around the implants, and deepening of the vestibule, with minimal morbidity and reduced surgical treatment time. However, some vestibular keratinized tissue contraction was evident. The new collagen matrix may be a promising material as a substitute for an autologous gingival/connective tissue graft. Despite the preliminary results of this innovative article, before drawing any general conclusion, the benefit of the procedure should be further evaluated by prospective clinical trials.

Expression and clinical significance of connective tissue growth factor in thyroid carcinomas.

PubMed

Wang, Guimin; Zhang, Wei; Meng, Wei; Liu, Jia; Wang, Peisong; Lin, Shan; Xu, Liyan; Li, Enmin; Chen, Guang

2013-08-01

To examine expression of the connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) gene in human thyroid cancer and establish whether a correlation exists between the presence of CTGF protein and clinicopathological parameters of the disease. CTGF protein expression was investigated retrospectively by immunohistochemical analysis of CTGF protein levels in thyroid tumour tissue. Associations between immunohistochemical score and several clinicopathological parameters were examined. In total, 131 thyroid tissue specimens were included. High levels of CTGF protein were observed in papillary thyroid carcinoma tissue; benign thyroid tumour tissue scored negatively for CTGF protein. In papillary thyroid carcinoma, there was a significant relationship between high CTGF protein levels and Union for International Cancer Control disease stage III-IV, and presence of lymph node metastasis. In papillary thyroid carcinomas, CTGF protein levels were not significantly associated with sex or age. These findings suggest that the CTGF protein level is increased in papillary thyroid carcinoma cells compared with benign thyroid tumours. CTGF expression might play a role in the development of malignant tumours in the thyroid.

Multiplexed and scalable super-resolution imaging of three-dimensional protein localization in size-adjustable tissues.

PubMed

Ku, Taeyun; Swaney, Justin; Park, Jeong-Yoon; Albanese, Alexandre; Murray, Evan; Cho, Jae Hun; Park, Young-Gyun; Mangena, Vamsi; Chen, Jiapei; Chung, Kwanghun

2016-09-01

The biology of multicellular organisms is coordinated across multiple size scales, from the subnanoscale of molecules to the macroscale, tissue-wide interconnectivity of cell populations. Here we introduce a method for super-resolution imaging of the multiscale organization of intact tissues. The method, called magnified analysis of the proteome (MAP), linearly expands entire organs fourfold while preserving their overall architecture and three-dimensional proteome organization. MAP is based on the observation that preventing crosslinking within and between endogenous proteins during hydrogel-tissue hybridization allows for natural expansion upon protein denaturation and dissociation. The expanded tissue preserves its protein content, its fine subcellular details, and its organ-scale intercellular connectivity. We use off-the-shelf antibodies for multiple rounds of immunolabeling and imaging of a tissue's magnified proteome, and our experiments demonstrate a success rate of 82% (100/122 antibodies tested). We show that specimen size can be reversibly modulated to image both inter-regional connections and fine synaptic architectures in the mouse brain.

Comparison of ADM and Connective Tissue Graft as the Membrane in Class II Furcation Defect Regeneration: A Randomized Clinical Trial

PubMed Central

Esfahanian, Vahid; Farhad, Shirin; Sadighi Shamami, Mehrnaz

2014-01-01

Background and aims. Furcally-involved teeth present unique challenges to the success of periodontal therapy and influence treatment outcomes. This study aimed to assess to compare use of ADM and connective tissue membrane in class II furcation defect regeneration. Materials and methods. 10 patient with 2 bilaterally class II furcation defects in first and/or second maxilla or man-dibular molar without interproximal furcation involvement, were selected. Four weeks after initial phase of treatment, before and thorough the surgery pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment level to stent (CAL-S), free gingival margin to stent(FGM-S) , crestal bone to stent (Crest-S), horizontal defect depth to stent (HDD-S) and vertical defect depth to stent (VDD-S) and crestal bone to defect depth measured from stent margin. Thereafter, one side randomly treated using connective tissue and DFDBA (study group) and opposite side received ADM and DFDBA (control group). After 6 months, soft and hard tissue parameters measured again in re-entry. Results. Both groups presented improvements after therapies (P & 0.05). No inter-group differences were seen in PD re-duction (P = 0.275), CAL gain (P = 0.156), free gingival margin (P = 0.146), crest of the bone (P = 0.248), reduction in horizontal defects depth (P = 0.139) and reduction in vertical defects depth (P = 0.149). Conclusion. Both treatments modalities have potential of regeneration without any adverse effect on healing process. Connective tissue grafts did not have significant higher bone fill compared to that of ADM. PMID:25093054

Clonal population of adult stem cells: life span and differentiation potential.

PubMed

Seruya, Mitchel; Shah, Anup; Pedrotty, Dawn; du Laney, Tracey; Melgiri, Ryan; McKee, J Andrew; Young, Henry E; Niklason, Laura E

2004-01-01

Adult stem cells derived from bone marrow, connective tissue, and solid organs can exhibit a range of differentiation potentials. Some controversy exists regarding the classification of mesenchymal stem cells as bona fide stem cells, which is in part derived from the limited ability to propagate true clonal populations of precursor cells. We isolated putative mesenchymal stem cells from the connective tissue of an adult rat (rMSC), and generated clonal populations via three rounds of dilutional cloning. The replicative potential of the clonal rMSC line far exceeded Hayflick's limit of 50-70 population doublings. The high capacity for self-renewal in vitro correlated with telomerase activity, as demonstrated by telomerase repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) assay. Exposure to nonspecific differentiation culture medium revealed multilineage differentiation potential of rMSC clones. Immunostaining confirmed the appearance of mesodermal phenotypes, including adipocytes possessing lipid-rich vacuoles, chondrocytes depositing pericellular type II collagen, and skeletal myoblasts expressing MyoD1. Importantly, the spectrum of differentiation capability was sustained through repeated passaging. Furthermore, serum-free conditions that led to high-efficiency smooth muscle differentiation were identified. rMSCs plated on collagen IV-coated surfaces and exposed to transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) differentiated into a homogeneous population expressing alpha-actin and calponin. Hence, clonogenic analysis confirmed the presence of a putative MSC population derived from the connective tissue of rat skeletal muscle. The ability to differentiate into a smooth muscle cell (SMC) phenotype, combined with a high proliferative capacity, make such a connective tissue-derived MSC population ideal for applications in vascular tissue construction.

Chondrocytes, synoviocytes and dermal fibroblasts all express PH-20, a hyaluronidase active at neutral pH

PubMed Central

El Hajjaji, Hafida; Cole, Ada Asbury; Manicourt, Daniel-Henri

2005-01-01

Hyaluronan (HA), an important component of connective tissues, is highly metabolically active, but the mechanisms involved in its catabolism are still largely unknown. We hypothesized that a protein similar to sperm PH-20, the only mammalian hyaluronidase known to be active at neutral pH, could be expressed in connective tissue cells. An mRNA transcript similar to that of PH-20 was found in chondrocytes, synoviocytes, and dermal fibroblasts, and its levels were enhanced upon stimulation with IL-1. In cell layers extracted with Triton X-100 – but not with octylglucoside – and in culture media, a polyclonal antipeptide anti-PH-20 antibody identified protein bands with a molecular weight similar to that of sperm PH-20 (60 to 65 kDa) and exhibiting a hyaluronidase activity at neutral pH. Further, upon stimulation with IL-1, the amounts of the neutral-active hyaluronidase increased in both cell layers and culture media. These findings contribute potential important new insights into the biology of connective tissues. It is likely that PH-20 facilitates cell-receptor-mediated uptake of HA, while overexpression or uncontrolled expression of the enzyme can cause great havoc to connective tissues: not only does HA fragmentation compromise the structural integrity of tissues, but also the HA fragments generated are highly angiogenic and are potent inducers of proinflammatory cytokines. On the other hand, the enzyme activity may account for the progressive depletion of HA seen in osteoarthritis cartilage, a depletion that is believed to play an important role in the apparent irreversibility of this disease process. PMID:15987477

Histopathological changes caused by the metacestodes of Neogryporhynchus cheilancristrotus (Wedl, 1855) in the gut of the gibel carp, Carassius gibelio.

PubMed

Molnár, K

2005-01-01

Metacestodes of Neogryporhynchus cheilancristrotus (Wedl, 1855) were found in the gut of some gibel carp (Carassius gibelio) specimens from a Hungarian water reservoir. Location of metacestodes in the freshly opened gut was marked with disseminated, red-coloured, pinhead-sized nodules in the anterior part of the intestine. In histological sections, metacestodes were found in a hole inside the propria layer of the intestinal folds. The worms were in direct contact with the host tissue without being encapsulated as a result of host reaction. In some specimens with extruded rostellum the rostellar hooks were bored into the host tissue and suckers grabbed pieces of the surrounding connective tissue. Around the worms, congested capillaries and formation of macrophages were seen in the lysed connective tissue.

Novel Therapeutic Development of NF1-Associated Malignant Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor (MPNST)

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-08-01

peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPSNT)”, 11/5/2015, SARC-CTOS (Connective Tissue Oncology Society) Symposium, Salt Lake City, Utah b) “PRC2 loss in...of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPSNT)”, 11/5/2015, SARC-CTOS (Connective Tissue Oncology Society) Symposium, Salt Lake City, Utah 2...Medical Oncology Service FROM: Roger S Wilson, MD Chairman, Institutional Review Board/Privacy Board-A DATE: 02/11/2016 RE: Protocol # 16-052 Your

A case of mixed connective tissue disease with pseudo-pseudo Meigs' syndrome (PPMS)-like features.

PubMed

Cheah, C K; Ramanujam, S; Mohd Noor, N; Gandhi, C; D Souza, Beryl A; Gun, S C

2016-02-01

Pseudo-pseudo Meigs' syndrome (PPMS) has been reported to be a rare presentation of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, such a presentation is not common in other forms of connective tissue disease. We presented a case of gross ascites, pleural effusion, and marked elevation of CA-125 level (PPMS-like features) that led to a diagnosis of MCTD. The patient responded to systemic steroid therapy. © The Author(s) 2015.

A new entity in the differential diagnosis of geniculate ganglion tumours: fibrous connective tissue lesion of the facial nerve.

PubMed

de Arriba, Alvaro; Lassaletta, Luis; Pérez-Mora, Rosa María; Gavilán, Javier

2013-01-01

Differential diagnosis of geniculate ganglion tumours includes chiefly schwannomas, haemangiomas and meningiomas. We report the case of a patient whose clinical and imaging findings mimicked the presentation of a facial nerve schwannoma.Pathological studies revealed a lesion with nerve bundles unstructured by intense collagenisation. Consequently, it was called fibrous connective tissue lesion of the facial nerve. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier España, S.L. All rights reserved.

A nonphosphaturic mesenchymal tumor mixed connective tissue variant of the sacrum.

PubMed

Mavrogenis, Andreas F; Sakellariou, Vasileios I; Soultanis, Konstantinos; Mahera, Helen; Korres, Demetrios S; Papagelopoulos, Panayiotis J

2010-11-02

Tumor-induced or oncogenic osteomalacia is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome characterized by overproduction of fibroblast growth factor-23 as a phosphaturic agent and renal phosphate wasting. A range of predominantly mesenchymal neoplasms have been associated with tumor-induced osteomalacia and classified as phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor mixed connective tissues. However, phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor mixed connective tissues could be nonphosphaturic in the first stage of the disease, either because the tumors are resected early in the clinical course or because the patient's osteomalacia was attributed to another cause. This article presents a case of a 42-year-old woman with a 2-year history of low back and right leg pain. Laboratory examinations including serum and urine calcium and phosphorous were within normal values. Imaging of the lumbar spine and pelvis showed an osteolytic lesion occupying the right sacral wing. Histology was unclear. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis for fibroblast growth factor-23 was positive and confirmed the diagnosis of phosphaturic mesenchymal tumor mixed connective tissues. Preoperative selective arterial embolization and complete intralesional excision, bone grafting, and instrumented fusion from L4 to L5 to the iliac wings bilaterally was performed. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. Neurological deficits were not observed. A lumbopelvic corset was applied for 3 months. At 12 months, the patient was asymptomatic. Serum and urine values of calcium and phosphorous were normal throughout the follow-up evaluation. Copyright 2010, SLACK Incorporated.

Connective tissue graft vs. emdogain: A new approach to compare the outcomes.

PubMed

Sayar, Ferena; Akhundi, Nasrin; Gholami, Sanaz

2013-01-01

The aim of this clinical trial study was to clinically evaluate the use of enamel matrix protein derivative combined with the coronally positioned flap to treat gingival recession compared to the subepithelial connective tissue graft by a new method to obtain denuded root surface area. Thirteen patients, each with two or more similar bilateral Miller class I or II gingival recession (40 recessions) were randomly assigned to the test (enamel matrix protein derivative + coronally positioned flap) or control group (subepithelial connective tissue graft). Recession depth, width, probing depth, keratinized gingival, and plaque index were recorded at baseline and at one, three, and six months after treatment. A stent was used to measure the denuded root surface area at each examination session. Results were analyzed using Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Wilcoxon, Friedman, paired-sample t test. The average percentages of root coverage for control and test groups were 63.3% and 55%, respectively. Both groups showed significant keratinized gingival increase (P < 0.05). Recession depth decreased significantly in both groups. Root surface area was improved significantly from baseline with no significant difference between the two study groups (P > 0.05). The results of Friedman test were significant for clinical indices (P < 0.05), except for probing depth in control group (P = 0.166). Enamel matrix protein derivative showed the same results as subepithelial connective tissue graft with relatively easy procedure to perform and low patient morbidity.

Quantitative nailfold capillaroscopy findings in a population with connective tissue disease and in normal healthy controls.

PubMed Central

Kabasakal, Y; Elvins, D M; Ring, E F; McHugh, N J

1996-01-01

OBJECTIVE: To describe and quantify the morphological characteristics of nailfold capillaries that distinguish different forms of connective tissue disease from healthy controls. METHODS: A CCD video microscope with fibreoptic illumination and PC based image processing was used to visualise nailfold capillaries and to quantify findings in 23 patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc), 22 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), 21 patients with undifferentiated connective tissue disease (UCTD), and 38 healthy controls. RESULTS: Capillary density was reduced in SSc (5.2 (SD 1.3) capillaries/mm) compared with other patient groups and controls. The average number of enlarged capillaries/finger was high in all disease groups (5.5-6.6) compared with controls (2). However, giant capillaries were most frequent in SSc (43%) and were not present in controls. Mild and moderate avascular areas were present in all groups (35%-68%), but severe avascularity was most frequent in SSc (44%) compared with other patients (18%-19%) and controls (0%). The greatest frequency of extensive haemorrhage was in SSc (35%). CONCLUSIONS: There is a range of abnormal capillary findings in patients with connective tissue disease and healthy controls. However, certain abnormalities such as a reduced number of capillaries, severe avascularity, giant capillaries, and haemorrhage are most commonly associated with SSc. Videomicroscopy with image processing offers many technical advantages that can be exploited in further studies of nailfold capillaries. Images PMID:8774177

Chronic ankle pain and fibrosis successfully treated with a new noninvasive augmented soft tissue mobilization technique (ASTM): a case report.

PubMed

Melham, T J; Sevier, T L; Malnofski, M J; Wilson, J K; Helfst, R H

1998-06-01

This clinical case report demonstrates the clinical effectiveness of a new form of soft tissue mobilization in the treatment of excessive connective tissue fibrosis (scar tissue) around an athlete's injured ankle. The scar tissue was causing the athlete to have pain with activity, pain on palpation of the ankle, decreased range of motion, and loss of function. Surgery and several months of conventional physical therapy failed to alleviate the athlete's symptoms. As a final resort, augmented soft tissue mobilization (ASTM) was administered. ASTM is an alternative nonsurgical treatment modality that is being researched at Performance Dynamics (Muncip, IN). ASTM is a process that uses ergonomically designed instruments that assist therapists in the rapid localization and effective treatment of areas exhibiting excessive soft tissue fibrosis. This is followed by a stretching and strengthening program. Upon the completion of 6 wk of ASTM therapy, the athlete had no pain and had regained full range of motion and function. This case report is an example of how a noninvasive augmented form of soft tissue mobilization (ASTM) demonstrated impressive clinical results in treating a condition caused by connective tissue fibrosis.

Raman spectroscopy of normal oral buccal mucosa tissues: study on intact and incised biopsies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deshmukh, Atul; Singh, S. P.; Chaturvedi, Pankaj; Krishna, C. Murali

2011-12-01

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is one of among the top 10 malignancies. Optical spectroscopy, including Raman, is being actively pursued as alternative/adjunct for cancer diagnosis. Earlier studies have demonstrated the feasibility of classifying normal, premalignant, and malignant oral ex vivo tissues. Spectral features showed predominance of lipids and proteins in normal and cancer conditions, respectively, which were attributed to membrane lipids and surface proteins. In view of recent developments in deep tissue Raman spectroscopy, we have recorded Raman spectra from superior and inferior surfaces of 10 normal oral tissues on intact, as well as incised, biopsies after separation of epithelium from connective tissue. Spectral variations and similarities among different groups were explored by unsupervised (principal component analysis) and supervised (linear discriminant analysis, factorial discriminant analysis) methodologies. Clusters of spectra from superior and inferior surfaces of intact tissues show a high overlap; whereas spectra from separated epithelium and connective tissue sections yielded clear clusters, though they also overlap on clusters of intact tissues. Spectra of all four groups of normal tissues gave exclusive clusters when tested against malignant spectra. Thus, this study demonstrates that spectra recorded from the superior surface of an intact tissue may have contributions from deeper layers but has no bearing from the classification of a malignant tissues point of view.

Effects of Age, Sex, and Body Position on Orofacial Muscle Tone in Healthy Adults

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Dietsch, Angela M.; Clark, Heather M.; Steiner, Jessica N.; Solomon, Nancy Pearl

2015-01-01

Purpose: Quantification of tissue stiffness may facilitate identification of abnormalities in orofacial muscle tone and thus contribute to differential diagnosis of dysarthria. Tissue stiffness is affected by muscle tone as well as age-related changes in muscle and connective tissue. Method: The Myoton-3 measured tissue stiffness in 40 healthy…

Repair of Dense Connective Tissues via Biomaterial-Mediated Matrix Reprogramming of the Wound Interface

PubMed Central

Qu, Feini; Pintauro, Michael P.; Haughan, Joanne; Henning, Elizabeth A.; Esterhai, John L.; Schaer, Thomas P.; Mauck, Robert L.; Fisher, Matthew B.

2014-01-01

Repair of dense connective tissues in adults is limited by their intrinsic hypocellularity and is exacerbated by a dense extracellular matrix (ECM) that impedes cellular migration to and local proliferation at the wound site. Conversely, healing in fetal tissues occurs due in part to an environment conducive to cell mobility and division. Here, we investigated whether the application of a degradative enzyme, collagenase, could reprogram the adult wound margin to a more fetal-like state, and thus abrogate the biophysical impediments that hinder migration and proliferation. We tested this concept using the knee meniscus, a commonly injured structure for which few regenerative approaches exist. To focus delivery and degradation to the wound interface, we developed a system in which collagenase was stored inside poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) electrospun nanofibers and released upon hydration. Through a series of in vitro and in vivo studies, our findings show that partial digestion of the wound interface improves repair by creating a more compliant and porous microenvironment that expedites cell migration to and/or proliferation at the wound margin. This innovative approach of targeted manipulation of the wound interface, focused on removing the naturally occurring barriers to adult tissue repair, may find widespread application in the treatment of injuries to a variety of dense connective tissues. PMID:25477175

Infrared Detector System with Controlled Thermal Conductance

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cunningham, Thomas J. (Inventor)

2000-01-01

A thermal infrared detector system includes a heat sink, a support member, a connection support member connecting the support member to the heat sink and including a heater unit is reviewed. An infrared detector element is mounted on the support member and a temperature signal representative of the infrared energy contacting the support member can then be derived by comparing the temperature of the support member and the heat sink. The temperature signal from a support member and a temperature signal from the connection support member can then be used to drive a heater unit mounted on the connection support member to thereby control the thermal conductance of the support member. Thus, the thermal conductance can be controlled so that it can be actively increased or decreased as desired.

Repair of full-thickness tendon injury using connective tissue progenitors efficiently derived from human embryonic stem cells and fetal tissues.

PubMed

Cohen, Shahar; Leshansky, Lucy; Zussman, Eyal; Burman, Michael; Srouji, Samer; Livne, Erella; Abramov, Natalie; Itskovitz-Eldor, Joseph

2010-10-01

The use of stem cells for tissue engineering (TE) encourages scientists to design new platforms in the field of regenerative and reconstructive medicine. Human embryonic stem cells (hESC) have been proposed to be an important cell source for cell-based TE applications as well as an exciting tool for investigating the fundamentals of human development. Here, we describe the efficient derivation of connective tissue progenitors (CTPs) from hESC lines and fetal tissues. The CTPs were significantly expanded and induced to generate tendon tissues in vitro, with ultrastructural characteristics and biomechanical properties typical of mature tendons. We describe a simple method for engineering tendon grafts that can successfully repair injured Achilles tendons and restore the ankle joint extension movement in mice. We also show the CTP's ability to differentiate into bone, cartilage, and fat both in vitro and in vivo. This study offers evidence for the possibility of using stem cell-derived engineered grafts to replace missing tissues, and sets a basic platform for future cell-based TE applications in the fields of orthopedics and reconstructive surgery.

Proteomic Analysis of Human Tendon and Ligament: Solubilization and Analysis of Insoluble Extracellular Matrix in Connective Tissues.

PubMed

Sato, Nori; Taniguchi, Takako; Goda, Yuichiro; Kosaka, Hirofumi; Higashino, Kosaku; Sakai, Toshinori; Katoh, Shinsuke; Yasui, Natsuo; Sairyo, Koichi; Taniguchi, Hisaaki

2016-12-02

Connective tissues such as tendon, ligament and cartilage are mostly composed of extracellular matrix (ECM). These tissues are insoluble, mainly due to the highly cross-linked ECM proteins such as collagens. Difficulties obtaining suitable samples for mass spectrometric analysis render the application of modern proteomic technologies difficult. Complete solubilization of them would not only elucidate protein composition of normal tissues but also reveal pathophysiology of pathological tissues. Here we report complete solubilization of human Achilles tendon and yellow ligament, which is achieved by chemical digestion combined with successive protease treatment including elastase. The digestion mixture was subjected to liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The low specificity of elastase was overcome by accurate mass analysis achieved using FT-ICR-MS. In addition to the detailed proteome of both tissues, we also quantitatively determine the major protein composition of samples, by measuring peak area of some characteristic peptides detected in tissue samples and in purified proteins. As a result, differences between human Achilles tendon and yellow ligament were elucidated at molecular level.

Facts and controversies in mixed connective tissue disease.

PubMed

Martínez-Barrio, Julia; Valor, Lara; López-Longo, F Javier

2018-01-12

Mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD) is a systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease (SARD) characterised by the combination of clinical manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), cutaneous systemic sclerosis (SSc) and polymyositis-dermatomyositis, in the presence of elevated titers of anti-U1-RNP antibodies. Main symptoms of the disease are polyarthritis, hand oedema, Raynaud's phenomenon, sclerodactyly, myositis and oesophageal hypomobility. Although widely discussed, most authors today accept MCTD as an independent entity. Others, however, suggest that these patients may belong to subgroups or early stages of certain definite connective diseases, such as SLE or SSc, or are, in fact, SARD overlap syndromes. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.

[Possibilities of differentiation of antinuclear antibodies].

PubMed

Müller, W; Rosenthal, M; Stojan, B

1975-10-15

Antinuclear antibodies can give diagnostic informations according to their titre values, the belonging to different classes of immune globulins and on the basis of different patterns of immunofluorescence connection. The determination of granulocyte-specific antibodies which frequently appear in progressive chronic polyarthritis further contributes to the differential-diagnostic classification of diseases of the connective tissue. An antibody against extractable nuclear antigen is specific for the so-called mixed connective tissue disease, an antimitochondrial antibody for the pseudo-LE-syndrome. Moreover, the own examinations resulted in a particularly high and frequent ability of complement fixation of the antinuclear factors in systematic lupus erythematosus and sclerodermy. In contrast to this in the progressive chronic polyarthritis the complement fixation was clearly more insignificant.

Hyaluronan (HA) interacting proteins RHAMM and hyaluronidase impact prostate cancer cell behavior and invadopodia formation in 3D HA-based hydrogels.

PubMed

Gurski, Lisa A; Xu, Xian; Labrada, Lyana N; Nguyen, Ngoc T; Xiao, Longxi; van Golen, Kenneth L; Jia, Xinqiao; Farach-Carson, Mary C

2012-01-01

To study the individual functions of hyaluronan interacting proteins in prostate cancer (PCa) motility through connective tissues, we developed a novel three-dimensional (3D) hyaluronic acid (HA) hydrogel assay that provides a flexible, quantifiable, and physiologically relevant alternative to current methods. Invasion in this system reflects the prevalence of HA in connective tissues and its role in the promotion of cancer cell motility and tissue invasion, making the system ideal to study invasion through bone marrow or other HA-rich connective tissues. The bio-compatible cross-linking process we used allows for direct encapsulation of cancer cells within the gel where they adopt a distinct, cluster-like morphology. Metastatic PCa cells in these hydrogels develop fingerlike structures, "invadopodia", consistent with their invasive properties. The number of invadopodia, as well as cluster size, shape, and convergence, can provide a quantifiable measure of invasive potential. Among candidate hyaluronan interacting proteins that could be responsible for the behavior we observed, we found that culture in the HA hydrogel triggers invasive PCa cells to differentially express and localize receptor for hyaluronan mediated motility (RHAMM)/CD168 which, in the absence of CD44, appears to contribute to PCa motility and invasion by interacting with the HA hydrogel components. PCa cell invasion through the HA hydrogel also was found to depend on the activity of hyaluronidases. Studies shown here reveal that while hyaluronidase activity is necessary for invadopodia and inter-connecting cluster formation, activity alone is not sufficient for acquisition of invasiveness to occur. We therefore suggest that development of invasive behavior in 3D HA-based systems requires development of additional cellular features, such as activation of motility associated pathways that regulate formation of invadopodia. Thus, we report development of a 3D system amenable to dissection of biological processes associated with cancer cell motility through HA-rich connective tissues.

Raman microspectroscopy as a diagnostic tool for the non-invasive analysis of fibrillin-1 deficiency in the skin and in the in vitro skin models.

PubMed

Brauchle, Eva; Bauer, Hannah; Fernes, Patrick; Zuk, Alexandra; Schenke-Layland, Katja; Sengle, Gerhard

2017-04-01

Fibrillin microfibrils and elastic fibers are critical determinants of elastic tissues where they define as tissue-specific architectures vital mechanical properties such as pliability and elastic recoil. Fibrillin microfibrils also facilitate elastic fiber formation and support the association of epithelial cells with the interstitial matrix. Mutations in fibrillin-1 (FBN1) are causative for the Marfan syndrome, a congenital multisystem disorder characterized by progressive deterioration of the fibrillin microfibril/ elastic fiber architecture in the cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, ocular, and dermal system. In this study, we utilized Raman microspectroscopy in combination with principal component analysis (PCA) to analyze the molecular consequences of fibrillin-1 deficiency in skin of a mouse model (GT8) of Marfan syndrome. In addition, full-thickness skin models incorporating murine wild-type and Fbn1 GT8/GT8 fibroblasts as well as human HaCaT keratinocytes were generated and analyzed. Skin models containing GT8 fibroblasts showed an altered epidermal morphology when compared to wild-type models indicating a new role for fibrillin-1 in dermal-epidermal crosstalk. Obtained Raman spectra together with PCA allowed to discriminate between healthy and deficient microfibrillar networks in murine dermis and skin models. Interestingly, results obtained from GT8 dermis and skin models showed similar alterations in molecular signatures triggered by fibrillin-1 deficiency such as amide III vibrations and decreased levels of glycan vibrations. Overall, this study indicates that Raman microspectroscopy has the potential to analyze subtle changes in fibrillin-1 microfibrils and elastic fiber networks. Therefore Raman microspectroscopy may be utilized as a non-invasive and sensitive diagnostic tool to identify connective tissue disorders and monitor their disease progression. Mutations in building blocks of the fibrillin microfibril/ elastic fiber network manifest in disease conditions such as aneurysms, emphysema or lax skin. Understanding how structural changes induced by fibrillin-1 mutation impact the architecture of fibrillin microfibrils, which then translates into an altered activation state of targeted growth factors, represents a huge challenge in elucidating the genotype-phenotype correlations in connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome. This study shows that Raman microspectroscopy is able to reveal structural changes in fibrillin-1 microfibrils and elastic fiber networks and to discriminate between normal and diseased networks in vivo and in vitro. Therefore Raman microspectroscopy may be utilized as a non-invasive and sensitive diagnostic tool to identify connective tissue disorders and monitor their disease progression. Copyright © 2016 Acta Materialia Inc. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

75 FR 54159 - Center for Scientific Review; Notice of Closed Meetings

Federal Register 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014

2010-09-03

... Integrated Review Group; Musculoskeletal Tissue Engineering Study Section. Date: September 28-29, 2010. Time... Skin Sciences Integrated Review Group; Arthritis, Connective Tissue and Skin Study Section. Date...

[Mathematic analysis of risk factors influence on occupational respiratory diseases development].

PubMed

Budkar', L N; Bugaeva, I V; Obukhova, T Iu; Tereshina, L G; Karpova, E A; Shmonina, O G

2010-01-01

Analysis covered 1348 case histories of workers exposed to industrial dust in Urals region. The analysis applied mathematical processing of survival theory and correlation analysis. The authors studied influence of various factors: dust concentration, connective tissue dysplasia, smoking habits--on duration for diseases caused by dust to appear. Findings are that occupational diseases develop reliably faster with higher ambient dust concentrations and with connective tissue dysplasia syndrome. Smoking habits do not alter duration of pneumoconiosis development, but reliably increases development of occupational dust bronchitis.

Intranasal insulin enhances brain functional connectivity mediating the relationship between adiposity and subjective feeling of hunger.

PubMed

Kullmann, Stephanie; Heni, Martin; Veit, Ralf; Scheffler, Klaus; Machann, Jürgen; Häring, Hans-Ulrich; Fritsche, Andreas; Preissl, Hubert

2017-05-09

Brain insulin sensitivity is an important link between metabolism and cognitive dysfunction. Intranasal insulin is a promising tool to investigate central insulin action in humans. We evaluated the acute effects of 160 U intranasal insulin on resting-state brain functional connectivity in healthy young adults. Twenty-five lean and twenty-two overweight and obese participants underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging, on two separate days, before and after intranasal insulin or placebo application. Insulin compared to placebo administration resulted in increased functional connectivity between the prefrontal regions of the default-mode network and the hippocampus as well as the hypothalamus. The change in hippocampal functional connectivity significantly correlated with visceral adipose tissue and the change in subjective feeling of hunger after intranasal insulin. Mediation analysis revealed that the intranasal insulin induced hippocampal functional connectivity increase served as a mediator, suppressing the relationship between visceral adipose tissue and hunger. The insulin-induced hypothalamic functional connectivity change showed a significant interaction with peripheral insulin sensitivity. Only participants with high peripheral insulin sensitivity showed a boost in hypothalamic functional connectivity. Hence, brain insulin action may regulate eating behavior and facilitate weight loss by modifying brain functional connectivity within and between cognitive and homeostatic brain regions.

Curcumin inhibits TGF-β1-induced connective tissue growth factor expression through the interruption of Smad2 signaling in human gingival fibroblasts.

PubMed

Chen, Jung-Tsu; Wang, Chen-Ying; Chen, Min-Huey

2018-01-13

Many fibrotic processes are associated with an increased level of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1). TGF-β1 can increase synthesis of matrix proteins and enhance secretion of protease inhibitors, resulting in matrix accumulation. Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a downstream profibrotic effector of TGF-β1 and is associated with the fibrosis in several human organs. Curcumin has been applied to reduce matrix accumulation in fibrotic diseases. This study was aimed to evaluate whether curcumin could suppress TGF-β1-induced CTGF expression and its related signaling pathway involving in this inhibitory action in primary human gingival fibroblasts. The differences in CTGF expression among three types of gingival overgrowth and normal gingival tissues were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Gingival fibroblast viability in cultured media with different concentrations of curcumin was studied by MTT assay. The effect of curcumin on TGF-β1-induced CTGF expression in primary human gingival fibroblasts was examined by immunoblotting. Moreover, the proteins involved in TGF-β1 signaling pathways including TGF-β1 receptors and Smad2 were also analyzed by immunoblotting. CTGF was highly expressed in fibroblasts, epithelial cells and some of endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and inflammatory cells in phenytoin-induced gingival overgrowth tissues rather than in those of hereditary and inflammatory gingival overgrowth tissues. Moreover, CTGF expression in the epithelial and connective tissue layers was higher in phenytoin-induced gingival overgrowth tissues than in normal gingival tissues. Curcumin was nontoxic and could reduce TGF-β1-induced CTGF expression by attenuating the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of Smad2. Curcumin can suppress TGF-β1-induced CTGF expression through the interruption of Smad2 signaling. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Detection of radiation-induced brain necrosis in live rats using label-free time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy (TRFS) (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hartl, Brad A.; Ma, Htet S. W.; Sridharan, Shamira; Hansen, Katherine; Klich, Melanie; Perks, Julian; Kent, Michael; Kim, Kyoungmi; Fragoso, Ruben; Marcu, Laura

2017-02-01

Differentiating radiation-induced necrosis from recurrent tumor in the brain remains a significant challenge to the neurosurgeon. Clinical imaging modalities are not able to reliably discriminate the two tissue types, making biopsy location selection and surgical management difficult. Label-free fluorescence lifetime techniques have previously been shown to be able to delineate human brain tumor from healthy tissues. Thus, fluorescence lifetime techniques represent a potential means to discriminate the two tissues in real-time during surgery. This study aims to characterize the endogenous fluorescence lifetime signatures from radiation induced brain necrosis in a tumor-free rat model. Fischer rats received a single fraction of 60 Gy of radiation to the right hemisphere using a linear accelerator. Animals underwent a terminal live surgery after gross necrosis had developed, as verified with MRI. During surgery, healthy and necrotic brain tissue was measured with a fiber optic needle connected to a multispectral fluorescence lifetime system. Measurements of the necrotic tissue showed a 48% decrease in intensity and 20% increase in lifetimes relative to healthy tissue. Using a support vector machine classifier and leave-one-out validation technique, the necrotic tissue was correctly classified with 94% sensitivity and 97% specificity. Spectral contribution analysis also confirmed that the primary source of fluorescence contrast lies within the redox and bound-unbound population shifts of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. A clinical trial is presently underway to measure these tissue types in humans. These results show for the first time that radiation-induced necrotic tissue in the brain contains significantly different metabolic signatures that are detectable with label-free fluorescence lifetime techniques.

[Porous matrix and primary-cell culture: a shared concept for skin and cornea tissue engineering].

PubMed

Auxenfans, C; Builles, N; Andre, V; Lequeux, C; Fievet, A; Rose, S; Braye, F-M; Fradette, J; Janin-Manificat, H; Nataf, S; Burillon, C; Damour, O

2009-06-01

Skin and cornea both feature an epithelium firmly anchored to its underlying connective compartment: dermis for skin and stroma for cornea. A breakthrough in tissue engineering occurred in 1975 when skin stem cells were successfully amplified in culture by Rheinwald and Green. Since 1981, they are used in the clinical arena as cultured epidermal autografts for the treatment of patients with extensive burns. A similar technique has been later adapted to the amplification of limbal-epithelial cells. The basal layer of the limbal epithelium is located in a transitional zone between the cornea and the conjunctiva and contains the stem cell population of the corneal epithelium called limbal-stem cells (LSC). These cells maintain the proper renewal of the corneal epithelium by generating transit-amplifying cells that migrate from the basal layer of the limbus towards the basal layer of the cornea. Tissue-engineering protocols enable the reconstruction of three-dimensional (3D) complex tissues comprising both an epithelium and its underlying connective tissue. Our in vitro reconstruction model is based on the combined use of cells and of a natural collagen-based biodegradable polymer to produce the connective-tissue compartment. This porous substrate acts as a scaffold for fibroblasts, thereby, producing a living dermal/stromal equivalent, which once epithelialized results into a reconstructed skin/hemicornea. This paper presents the reconstruction of surface epithelia for the treatment of pathological conditions of skin and cornea and the development of 3D tissue-engineered substitutes based on a collagen-GAG-chitosan matrix for the regeneration of skin and cornea.

Changes of the peri-implant soft tissue thickness after grafting with a collagen matrix

PubMed Central

Zafiropoulos, Gregory-George; Deli, Giorgio; Hoffmann, Oliver; John, Gordon

2016-01-01

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the treatment outcome of the use of a porcine monolayer collagen matrix (mCM) to increase soft-tissue volume as a part of implant site development. Materials and Methods: Implants were placed in single sites in 27 patients. In the test group, mCM was used for soft-tissue augmentation. No graft was placed in the control group. Soft-tissue thickness (STTh) was measured at the time of surgery (T0) and 6 months postoperatively (T1) at two sites (STTh 1, 1 mm below the gingival margin; STTh 2, 3 mm below the mucogingival margin). Results: Significant increases (P < 0.001) in STTh (STTh 1 = 1.06 mm, 117%; STTh 2 = 0.89 mm, 81%) were observed in the test group. Biopsy results showed angiogenesis and mature connective tissue covered by keratinized epithelium. Conclusions: Within the limitations of this study, it could be concluded that mCM leads to a significant increase of peri-implant soft-tissue thickness, with good histological integration and replacement by soft tissue and may serve as an alternative to connective tissue grafting. PMID:28298828

47 CFR 54.631 - Designation of Consortium Leader.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... (CONTINUED) UNIVERSAL SERVICE Universal Service Support for Health Care Providers Healthcare Connect Fund... support from the Healthcare Connect Fund must identify an entity or organization that will be the lead... entity), or non-profit entity that is ineligible for Healthcare Connect Fund support. Ineligible state...

47 CFR 54.633 - Health care provider contribution.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... (CONTINUED) UNIVERSAL SERVICE Universal Service Support for Health Care Providers Healthcare Connect Fund... providers receiving support under the Healthcare Connect Fund shall receive a 65 percent discount on the... provider contribution or for sustainability of the health care network supported by the Healthcare Connect...

47 CFR 54.631 - Designation of Consortium Leader.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... (CONTINUED) UNIVERSAL SERVICE Universal Service Support for Health Care Providers Healthcare Connect Fund... support from the Healthcare Connect Fund must identify an entity or organization that will be the lead... entity), or non-profit entity that is ineligible for Healthcare Connect Fund support. Ineligible state...

Lupus erythematosus and localized scleroderma coexistent at the same sites: a rare presentation of overlap syndrome of connective-tissue diseases.

PubMed

Pascucci, Anabella; Lynch, Peter J; Fazel, Nasim

2016-05-01

Overlap syndromes are known to occur with connective-tissue diseases (CTDs). Rarely, the overlap occurs at the same tissue site. We report the case of a patient with clinical and histopathologic findings consistent with the presence of discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) and localized scleroderma within the same lesions. Based on our case and other reported cases in the literature, the following features are common in patients with an overlap of lupus erythematosus (LE) and localized scleroderma: predilection for young women, photodistributed lesions, DLE, linear morphology clinically, and positivity along the dermoepidermal junction on direct immunofluorescence. Most patients showed good response to antimalarials, topical steroids, or systemic steroids.

Stroke Repair via Biomimicry of the Subventricular Zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Matta, Rita; Gonzalez, Anjelica L.

2018-03-01

Stroke is among the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, 85% of which are ischemic. Current stroke therapies are limited by a narrow effective therapeutic time and fail to effectively complete the recovery of the damaged area. Magnetic resonance imaging of the subventricular zone (SVZ) following infarct/stroke has allowed visualization of new axonal connections and projections being formed, while new immature neurons migrate from the SVZ to the peri-infarct area. Such studies suggest that the SVZ is a primary source of regenerative cells for the repair and regeneration of stroke-damaged neurons and tissue. Therefore, the development of tissue engineered scaffolds that serve as a bioreplicative SVZ niche would support the survival of multiple cell types that reside in the SVZ. Essential to replication of the human SVZ microenvironment is the establishment of microvasculature that regulates both the healthy and stroke-injured blood brain barrier, which is dysregulated post-stroke. In order to reproduce this niche, understanding how cells interact in this environment is critical, in particular neural stem cells, endothelial cells, pericytes, ependymal cells, and microglia. Remodeling and repair of the matrix-rich SVZ niche by endogenous reparative mechanisms may then support functional recovery when enhanced by an artificial niche that supports the survival and proliferation of migrating vascular and neuronal cells. Critical considerations to mimic this area include an understanding of resident cell types, delivery method, and the use of biocompatible materials. Controlling stem cell survival, differentiation, and migration are key factors to consider when transplanting stem cells. Here, we discuss the role of the SVZ architecture and resident cells in the promotion and enhancement of endogenous repair mechanisms. We elucidate the interplay between the extracellular matrix composition and cell interactions prior to and following stroke. Lastly, we review current cell and neuronal niche biomimetic materials that allow for a tissue- engineered approach in order to promote structural and functional restoration of neural circuitry. By creating an artificial mimetic SVZ, tissue engineers can strive to facilitate tissue regeneration and functional recovery.

Effect of in vitro gingival fibroblast seeding on the in vivo incorporation of acellular dermal matrix allografts in dogs.

PubMed

Novaes, Arthur B; Marchesan, Julie Teresa; Macedo, Guilherme O; Palioto, Daniela B

2007-02-01

Acellular dermal matrix allograft (ADMA) has been used in various periodontal procedures with successful results. Because ADMA has no blood vessels or cells, slower healing and incorporation are observed compared to a subepithelial connective tissue graft. Fibroblasts accelerate the healing process by regulation of matrix deposition and synthesis of a variety of growth factors. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate histologically if gingival fibroblasts affect healing and incorporation of ADMA in dogs when used as a subepithelial allograft. Gingival fibroblasts were established from explant culture from the connective tissue of keratinized gingiva collected from the maxilla of seven mongrel dogs. ADMA was seeded with gingival fibroblasts and transferred to dogs. Surgery was performed bilaterally, and the regions were divided into two groups: ADMA+F (ADMA containing fibroblasts) and ADMA (ADMA only). Biopsies were performed after 2, 4, and 8 weeks of healing. The quantity of blood vessels was significantly higher in the ADMA+F group at 2 weeks of healing (Kruskal-Wallis; P <0.05). There was no statistical difference (P >0.05) in the number of cell layers, epithelial area, or inflammatory infiltrate between the two groups at any stage of healing. The enhanced vascularization in vivo in early stages supports the important role of fibroblasts in improving graft performance and wound healing of cultured graft substitutes.

[Function of the acetabulum of digenetic trematodes, as exemplified by Dicrocoelium dendriticum].

PubMed

Neuhaus, W

1985-01-01

The suckers of animals adhere to the substratum either in air or in aqueous fluids. The varying compressibility of these media causes differences in function, the principles of which are described. The ventral arch of the acetabulum of Dicrocoelium dendriticum, like the remaining body, is limited by the integument, basal lamina and skin muscles. The dorsal arch covers a basal lamina, which is close to a plexus of diagonal, longitudinal and circular muscles. The radical muscles, attached at the ventral basal lamina by thin connective tissue, continue in relatively thick contractile fibers, which split up into several fibrils, which also attached by thin connective tissue at the dorsal basal lamina. In this way the tension of the muscles is likewise distributed over the dorsal and ventral arches of the acetabulum. After contact with the substratum the sucker creates a partial vacuum and attachment by means of the pressure of the radial muscles against the wall of the hole. Because of the fluid content of the hole, the volume does not change much. The dorsal arch of the sucker withstands the pressure of the radical muscles, because its surface area is six times greater than that of the ventral arch and consequently the load is six times less. The sucker, covered with basal lamina, has a constant volume; its layer of muscles resists deformation and supports the stability of the arch.

Effects of Weightlessness on Vestibular Development: Summary of Research on NIH.R1

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fritzsch, Bernd; Bruce, L. L.

1998-01-01

In our original application we proposed to investigate the effects of gravity on the formation of connections between the gravity receptors of the ear and the brain in rat pups raised in space beginning at an age before these connections are made until near the time of birth, when they are to some extent functional. We used the neuronal tracer, Dil, which could be applied to tissue obtained immediately after landing of the space shuttle, thus minimizing changes due to the earth's gravity. We hoped to determine whether the vestibular system develops in two phases, as do other sensory systems (such as the visual system). In these other systems the first phase of development is controlled genetically and the second phase is controlled by environmental stimulation. Our data collected strongly supports the idea that the vestibular system has these same two phases of development. The tissue obtained from the NIH.R1 experiment was of exceptionally high quality for our analysis. Therefore, we expanded our investigation into the ultrastructural effects of microgravity on vestibular development. For the sake of clarity we will subdivide our summary into two categories: (1) analysis of the branching pattern of axons between the vestibular nerve and the gravistatic receptors of the ear in flight and control animals, and (2) analysis of the branching pattern of axons between the vestibular nerve and the brain in flight and control animals.

Autofluorescence multiphoton microscopy for visualization of tissue morphology and cellular dynamics in murine and human airways.

PubMed

Kretschmer, Sarah; Pieper, Mario; Hüttmann, Gereon; Bölke, Torsten; Wollenberg, Barbara; Marsh, Leigh M; Garn, Holger; König, Peter

2016-08-01

The basic understanding of inflammatory airway diseases greatly benefits from imaging the cellular dynamics of immune cells. Current imaging approaches focus on labeling specific cells to follow their dynamics but fail to visualize the surrounding tissue. To overcome this problem, we evaluated autofluorescence multiphoton microscopy for following the motion and interaction of cells in the airways in the context of tissue morphology. Freshly isolated murine tracheae from healthy mice and mice with experimental allergic airway inflammation were examined by autofluorescence multiphoton microscopy. In addition, fluorescently labeled ovalbumin and fluorophore-labeled antibodies were applied to visualize antigen uptake and to identify specific cell populations, respectively. The trachea in living mice was imaged to verify that the ex vivo preparation reflects the in vivo situation. Autofluorescence multiphoton microscopy was also tested to examine human tissue from patients in short-term tissue culture. Using autofluorescence, the epithelium, underlying cells, and fibers of the connective tissue, as well as blood vessels, were identified in isolated tracheae. Similar structures were visualized in living mice and in the human airway tissue. In explanted murine airways, mobile cells were localized within the tissue and we could follow their migration, interactions between individual cells, and their phagocytic activity. During allergic airway inflammation, increased number of eosinophil and neutrophil granulocytes were detected that moved within the connective tissue and immediately below the epithelium without damaging the epithelial cells or connective tissues. Contacts between granulocytes were transient lasting 3 min on average. Unexpectedly, prolonged interactions between granulocytes and antigen-uptaking cells were observed lasting for an average of 13 min. Our results indicate that autofluorescence-based imaging can detect previously unknown immune cell interactions in the airways. The method also holds the potential to be used during diagnostic procedures in humans if integrated into a bronchoscope.

Fibroblastic connective tissue nevus.

PubMed

Velez, Moises J; Billings, Steven D; Weaver, Joshua A

2016-01-01

Fibroblastic connective tissue nevus (FCTN) is a newly recognized, benign cutaneous mesenchymal lesion of fibroblasts/myofibroblastic lineage, which expands the classification of connective tissue nevi. We present three cases of FCTN and discuss significant clinical, morphologic and immunophenotypic overlap with dermatomyofibroma. Our cases were from young women, aged 32, 24 and 10, and presented as 1.2 and 1 cm nodules on the posterior neck and right upper flank, respectively while presenting as a linear plaque of the right posterior thigh in the latter case. The lesions showed a poorly circumscribed proliferation of hypercellular spindle cells arranged in short to longer intersecting fascicles entrapping adnexal structures. Superficial adipose tissue was also entrapped in one case. The spindle cells had fibroblastic features with pale eosinophilic cytoplasmic extensions and inconspicuous nucleoli. The spindle cells were positive for CD34 in two cases. One case was negative for CD34, smooth muscle actin (SMA), desmin and S100. The overall features were consistent with a diagnosis of FCTN. In two cases, we further elucidated the fibroblastic differentiation of the spindle cells in FCTN with electron microscopy, which has not been previously described. © 2015 John Wiley & Sons A/S. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Periodontal regeneration using engineered bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells.

PubMed

Yang, Yi; Rossi, Fabio M V; Putnins, Edward E

2010-11-01

Regeneration of lost periodontium is a challenge in that both hard (alveolar bone, cementum) and soft (periodontal ligament) connective tissues need to be restored to their original architecture. Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) appear to be an attractive candidate for connective tissue regeneration. We hypothesized that BM-MSCs are able to sense biological cues from the local microenvironment and organize appropriately to contribute to the regeneration of both soft and hard periodontal connective tissues. To test this hypothesis, we transplanted GFP(+) rat BM-MSCs expanded ex vivo on microcarrier gelatin beads into a surgically created rat periodontal defect. After three weeks, evidence of regeneration of bone, cementum and periodontal ligament was observed in both transplanted and control animals. However, the animals that received BM-MSCs regenerated significantly greater new bone. In addition, the animals that had received the cells and beads transplant had significantly more appropriately orientated periodontal ligament fibers, indicative of functional restoration. Finally, donor-derived BM-MSCs were found integrated in newly formed bone, cementum and periodontal ligament, suggesting that they can directly contribute to the regeneration of cells of these tissues. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Scanning electron microscopy of echinoid podia.

PubMed

Florey, E; Cahill, M A

1982-01-01

Tube feet of the sea urchin Strongylocentrotus franciscanus were studied with the scanning electron microscope (SEM). By use of fractured preparations it was possible to obtain views of all components of the layered tube-foot wall. The outer epithelium was found to bear tufts of cilia possibly belonging to sensory cells. The nerve plexus was clearly revealed as being composed of bundles of varicose axons. The basal lamina, which covers the outer and inner surfaces of the connective tissue layer, was found to be a mechanically resistant and elastic membrane. The connective tissue appears as dense bundles of (collagen) fibers. The luminal epithelium (coelothelium) is a single layer of flagellated collar cells. There is no indication that the muscle fibers, which insert on the inner basal lamina of the connective tissue layer are innervated by axons from the basi-epithelial nerve plexus. The results agree with previous conclusions concerning tube-foot structure based on transmission electron microscopy, and provide additional information, particularly with regard to the outer and inner epithelia.

Cell migration through connective tissue in 3-D

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fabry, Ben

2008-03-01

A prerequisite for metastasis formation is the ability of tumor cells to invade and migrate through connective tissue. Four key components endow tumor cells with this ability: secretion of matrix-degrading enzymes, firm but temporary adhesion onto connective tissue fibers, contractile force generation, and rapid remodeling of cytoskeletal structures. Cell adhesion, contraction, and cytoskeletal remodeling are biomechanical parameter that can be measured on single cells using a panel of biophysical methods. We use 2-D and 3-D traction microscopy to measure contractile forces; magnetic tweezer microrheology to estimate adhesion strengths, cytoskeletal stiffness and molecular turn-over rates; and nanoscale particle tracking to measure cytoskeletal remodeling. On a wide range of tumor cell lines we could show that cell invasiveness correlates with increased expression of integrin adhesion receptors, increased contractile force generation, and increased speed of cytoskeletal reorganization. Each of those biomechanical parameters, however, varied considerably between cell lines of similar invasivity, suggesting that tumor cells employ multiple invasion strategies that cannot be unambiguously characterized using a single assay.

Pathogenesis of Systemic Sclerosis

PubMed Central

Pattanaik, Debendra; Brown, Monica; Postlethwaite, Bradley C.; Postlethwaite, Arnold E.

2015-01-01

Systemic scleroderma (SSc) is one of the most complex systemic autoimmune diseases. It targets the vasculature, connective tissue-producing cells (namely fibroblasts/myofibroblasts), and components of the innate and adaptive immune systems. Clinical and pathologic manifestations of SSc are the result of: (1) innate/adaptive immune system abnormalities leading to production of autoantibodies and cell-mediated autoimmunity, (2) microvascular endothelial cell/small vessel fibroproliferative vasculopathy, and (3) fibroblast dysfunction generating excessive accumulation of collagen and other matrix components in skin and internal organs. All three of these processes interact and affect each other. The disease is heterogeneous in its clinical presentation that likely reflects different genetic or triggering factor (i.e., infection or environmental toxin) influences on the immune system, vasculature, and connective tissue cells. The roles played by other ubiquitous molecular entities (such as lysophospholipids, endocannabinoids, and their diverse receptors and vitamin D) in influencing the immune system, vasculature, and connective tissue cells are just beginning to be realized and studied and may provide insights into new therapeutic approaches to treat SSc. PMID:26106387

Connective tissue disease-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension

PubMed Central

Howard, Luke S.

2015-01-01

Although rare in its idiopathic form, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is not uncommon in association with various associated medical conditions, most notably connective tissue disease (CTD). In particular, it develops in approximately 10% of patients with systemic sclerosis and so these patients are increasingly screened to enable early detection. The response of patients with systemic sclerosis to PAH-specific therapy appears to be worse than in other forms of PAH. Survival in systemic sclerosis-associated PAH is inferior to that observed in idiopathic PAH. Potential reasons for this include differences in age, the nature of the underlying pulmonary vasculopathy and the ability of the right ventricle to cope with increased afterload between patients with systemic sclerosis-associated PAH and idiopathic PAH, while coexisting cardiac and pulmonary disease is common in systemic sclerosis-associated PAH. Other forms of connective tissue-associated PAH have been less well studied, however PAH associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) has a better prognosis than systemic sclerosis-associated PAH and likely responds to immunosuppression. PMID:25705389