bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of Antigen- and Calcium Ionophore A23187-Induced Contractions of Guinea Pig Isolated Airways with 8-(Diethylamino)Octyl-3,4,5-Trimethoxybenzoate Hydrochloride(TMB-8)
Authors: Burka John F.
Published: August 2009

Both antigen- and calcium ionophore A23187-induced airways contractions are dependent on increased concentrations of intracellular calcium. Challenge of isolated tracheal spirals and parenchymal strips from sensitized guinea pigs with antigen or calcium ionophore A23187 in the presence of the intracellular calcium antagonist, 8-(diethylamino)octyl-3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoate hydrochloride (TMB-8), resulted in significantly reduced contractions. The results demonstrated that TMB-8 inhibits events that are dependent on either mobilization of intracellular calcium (i.e. antigen) or entry of calcium from extracellular sources (i.e. calcium ionophore A23187). The efficacy of TMB-8 in this model suggests that intracellular calcium antagonists may be potentially useful in the therapy of asthma.
Induction of Tolerance in Mice by Uricase and Monomethoxypolyethylene Glycol-Modified Uricase
Authors: Savoca K.V. , Davis F.F. , Palczuk N.C.
Published: August 2009

The ability to induce tolerance to uricase by the administration of native uricase, and uricase modified by the covalent attachment of monomethoxypolyethylene glycol (PEG) was examined. Uricase, and uricase with PEG attached to 35% (PEG-uricase 35%) and 70% (PEG-uricase 70%) of available amino groups were found to induce tolerance in mice not previously sensitized to uricase. There was a dampening of the IgG, IgE and IgM antibody response to uricase which persisted even after a second sensitizing dose of uricase was administered to these animals. PEG-uricases were found to have little or no immunogenicity when injected into mice and a reduced immunogenicity and antigenicity when tested in rabbits. Native uricase, however, was found to be immunogenic and antigenic in mice and rabbits. Mice sensitized to native uricase were injected with uricase, PEG-uricase 35% or 70% to induce tolerance. After a second sensitizing injection of uricase, circulating levels of IgE, IgG and IgM were measured. All three enzymes induced tolerance in the IgE class of antibody but there was no significant change in the hemagglutinating antibody levels of the mice. Mice injected with 1 mg of uricase died from anaphylaxis. PEG-uricase 35% was found to induce the most effective tolerance in both unsensitized and sensitized mice.
Dissociation of Chemotactic and Inflammatory Leukocyte Responses
Authors: Schardt M. , Normann S. , Sorkin E.
Published: August 2009

Leukocyte accumulation at inflammatory sites probably involves chemotactic migration of the cells, and it is often presumed that abnormalities in cell accumulation derive from defective chemotaxis. The latter contention was examined by measuring the chemotactic response of leukocytes obtained from the circulation during conditions associated with depressed cellular inflammatory reactions. In two transplanted-tumor models induced by different chemical carcinogens in DA strain rats, monocyte chemotaxis was normal or enhanced while macrophage accumulation at inflammatory foci was severely curtailed. Late pregnancy in outbred Wistar rats depressed macrophage accumulation to peritoneal irritants while enhancing monocyte chemotaxis. Irritant-induced anti-inflammation (counterirritation) in Wistar rats decreased both polymorphonuclear leukocyte and macrophage accumulation during inflammation but enhanced the chemotactic activity of the corresponding cells obtained from the circulation. We concluded that in vitro chemotactic measurements were not predictive of cellular accumulation during inflammation in these conditions and that an intrinsic defect in chemotaxis was insufficient to explain anti-inflammation associated with cancer, pregnancy, or counterirritation.
Regulation of Canine Mucus Secretion by a Novel Leukotriene Synthesis Inhibitor (U-60,257)
Authors: Johnson Herbert G. , McNee Martha L.
Published: August 2009

A novel leukotriene synthesis inhibitor, piriprost (U-60,257) was characterized in three quantitated assays of secretion in the canine in vivo trachea. The normal baseline secretion rate was inhibited in a dose-related fashion when the inhibitor was given via the cranial thyroid artery (decrease compared to control dogs: 27 ± 3.11% at 0.1 mg, n = 3, p < 0.05; 56 ± 4.85% at 0.5 mg, n = 3, p < 0.0l; 61.5 ± 6.8% at 1.0 mg, n = 14, p < 0.001). Hypoxia gas mixtures (8% O2 and 92% N2 4 min) delivered into the lung caused a mean increase in secretion of 160 ± 11.2% (p < 0.05). When the leukotriene inhibitor (1.0 mg) was given into the close arterial segment before hypoxia, this increased secretion response was blocked (160 ± 11.2 to 40 ± 16.7%; p < 0.05). Finally, arachidonic acid caused a potent and long-lasting enhancement in secretion (179 ± 9.0% of control; p < 0.01) that was partially blocked by 5 mg/kg indomethacin 30 min before (90 ± 12.7% of arachidonic acid; p < 0.01), and when 1.0 mg U-60,257 preceded the arachidonic acid, an additional inhibition of 50% of the indomethacin inhibition was seen (p < 0.01; n = 14). These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that canine secretion is modulated by arachidonic acid metabolites that act as agonists for secretion both by the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase pathways.
Oral Induction of the Secretory Antibody Response by Soluble and Particulate Antigens
Authors: Cox Donald S. , Taubman Martin A.
Published: August 2009

The ability of gastric intubation of a soluble or a particulate form of dinitrophenylated bovine γ-globulin (DNP-BGG) to induce salivary IgA antibody was examined. Gastric intubation of the particulate form of the antigen tended to induce a greater response than did equivalent doses of the soluble form. However, systemic immunization with the soluble form of the antigen prior to gastric intubation of antigen increased the salivary IgA response. Prior systemic injection of the particulate form did not increase the salivary IgA response. Immunoreactivity of the particulate moiety of the particulate antigen did not seem to be a factor in the observed differences, since three different synthetic particulate antigens with identical hapten-protein moieties produced the same results (i.e. prior injection with the synthetic particulate antigens did not increase the salivary IgA response).
Pneumococcal Antibodies in Families with Recurrent Otitis media
Authors: Kalm O. , Prellner K. , Pedersen F.K.
Published: August 2009

In a recent study it was found that children with recurrent acute otitis media (rAOM), in contrast to healthy children, frequently lack detectable antipneumococcal IgG antibodies against capsular types 6A and 19F. In children with rAOM, the concentrations of antibodies against type 6A polysaccharide remained low even after the period of rAOM had ceased. Antibody levels against various pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides were determined in otitis-prone and healthy members of 19 families. 25 children with a history of rAOM (mean age 7.2 years) and their parents, one of whom in each family had had rAOM during childhood, were investigated. Compared to the parents, the rAOM children had lower concentrations of IgG antibodies against the pneumococcal types 6A, 14, 19F and 23F and of IgA antibodies against type 23F. Compared to their parents, the rAOM children had higher concentrations of IgM antibodies against types 3 and 23F. ‘Healthy parents’ did not differ from ‘rAOM parents’ in IgG antibody levels against any of the pneumococcal capsular polysaccharides investigated. The findings indicate that rAOM occurs in individuals with a delayed rather than with a persisting inability to mount an adequate antibody response against the offending pneumococci.
Arachidonate Metabolites in Acute and Chronic Allergic Air Pouch Inflammation in Rats and the Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Indomethacin and Dexamethasone
Authors: Ohuchi Kazuo , Watanabe Masako , Levine Lawrence
Published: August 2009

Two types of allergic air pouch inflammation, the acute and the chronic types, were induced in the dorsum of rats. 1, 8, and 24 h after the immunologic challenge injection, the exudate contents of cyclooxygenase products, prostaglandin (PG)E2, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGE2, PGI2 (measured as 6-keto-PGF1α) and PGD2, and the lipoxygenase products, hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acids (HETEs) and 6-sulfido-peptide-containing leukotrienes (SRS) were measured by radioimmunoassay. The effects of locally injected indomethacin or dexamethasone on the exudate volumes and the number of cells in the exudates in both types of allergic inflammation and the effects of these drugs on the contents of the cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase products in the exudates 8 h after the challenge injection were examined.
Effect of Different Penicillin Derivatives on Complement Components in Human Serum
Authors: von Zabern I. , Przyklenk H. , Nolte R. , Vogt W.
Published: August 2009

The effect of different penicillin derivatives on the human complement system has been studied in vitro. Four penicillins tested (benzylpenicillin, oxacillin, methicillin, azlocillin) were found to inactivate total hemolytic complement dose dependently. This effect is caused by direct inactivation of C2, C5 and one or more of the components C6-9 as well as by activation of the alternative pathway. At relatively high concentrations, penicillins induce a conformational change in C3 and C4, leading to the C3b-like or C4b-like forms of these molecules, respectively. Prominent effects on the complement system occur at penicillin concentrations exceeding those achieved in plasma under regular therapeutic use. However, a synergism of penicillins with drugs acting similarly on the complement system, such as iodinated radiographic contrast media, may be expected.
Immunoregulation in Juvenile Chronic Arthritis
Authors: Ziegler John B. , Zaunders John J. , Cooper David A. , Maclean Prudence , Duckett Margaret , Edmonds John P. , Penny Ronald
Published: August 2009

The presence of hyperimmunoglobulinaemia and antinuclear antibodies in patients with juvenile chronic arthritis (JCA) suggests a possible role for immunoregulatory abnormalities in the pathogenesis of the disease. This is further supported by the demonstration in the sera of such patients of an autoantibody active against a suppressor inducer T cell subset. To identify immunoregulatory defects in JCA, a method of measuring concanavalin A (Con A)-inducible lymphocyte suppression of IgG production in vitro has been established. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were cultured in the presence of either medium alone, pokeweed mitogen (PWM), Con A, or PWM together with Con A. IgG present in culture supernates at 8 days was measured by a double-antibody radioimmunoassay. Spontaneous IgG synthesis by lymphocytes from both patients and child controls was found to be more than double that of lymphocytes from adult control subjects. However, lymphocytes of children (patients or controls) did not show stimulation of IgG production in the presence of PWM. Con A-induced suppression of spontaneous IgG synthesis was reduced compared to adult controls in both patients (p <0.02) and child controls (p <0.05). Con A-induced suppression of IgG synthesis in the presence of PWM was also reduced compared to adult controls in both patients (p <0.01) and child controls (p <0.01) but was also reduced in the patient group compared to the child controls (p <0.01). Thus, spontaneous IgG synthesis in children is increased compared to adults, and IgG-producing cells appear less subject to regulation. This is particularly so in children with JCA and may be a factor contributing to the pathogenesis of the disease. It would appear that in addition to the previously described abnormality in the suppressor inducer T cell subset there is also an abnormality in the Con A-inducible suppressor T cell population.
Humoral Autoimmune Response to Rat Male Accessory Glands
Authors: Vottero-Cima E. , Galmarini M. , Pesoa S. , Riera C.M. , Pistoresi-Palencia M.C.
Published: August 2009

The ability to induce antibodies to rat male accessory glands in male and female rats was demonstrated, but a higher response with wider specificity was revealed in female animals. In order to investigate whether this different response may be influenced by sexual hormones we castrated male and female rats at 4 or 30 days after birth. After that we studied the course and specificity of their humoral response to male accessory glands comparing them with that of sham-operated, sex-matched, littermate controls. Orchidectomy in male or oophorectomy in female rats changed neither the course nor specificity of humoral immune response. We conclude, therefore, that hormonal factors do not play any important role in the experimental model under study.
Migration of Bone Marrow Lymphocytes in Mice: Immunofluorescent Staining Using Antiallotype Serum
Authors: Park Young-Hoon , Yoshida Yataro , Ohkubo Tadashi , Uchino Haruto , Miyama-Inaba Muneo , Masuda Tohru
Published: August 2009

Bone marrow cells from CSW (Igha) mice were injected intravenously into the congeneic CWB (Ighb) mice. The lymphoid tissues of the recipient CWB mice were examined for donor type surface immunoglobulin (SΙg)-positive cells using fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated antiallotype serum Ighb anti-Igha. Donor type SIg-positive cells were rarely found in the recipients immediately after injection. However, the donor type B cells increased in the recipient’s spleen from days 1–2 and reached a plateau thereafter. The present method provides a useful means for studying the migration patterns and differentiation of bone marrow lymphocytes.
A Comparison of the Antibody Responses of Badgers (Meles meles) and Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) to Some Common Antigens
Authors: Higgins D.A. , Gatrill Alison J.
Published: August 2009

The primary and secondary antibody responses of rabbits and badgers were compared after intravenous inoculation of inactivated influenza A virus, sheep erythrocytes (SRBCs), bovine serum albumin (BSA) or bacteriophage ΦX174. BSA was also given as a primary injection by the intramuscular route in solution or in Freund’s incomplete or complete adjuvant, followed by an intravenous secondary inoculation without adjuvant. Antibody responses were monitored by: haemagglutination inhibition and neutralization tests for influenza virus; direct and antiglobulin haemagglutination tests for SRBCs; indirect haemagglutination test and the Farr method for antigen-binding capacity (ABC) for BSA; neutralization of ΦX174. Rabbits gave good responses to all antigens, but the response of badgers was generally poor. After intravenous administration, badgers gave a good response only to ΦX174, but even then they produced less antibody than rabbits receiving 100 times less antigen; the immune elimination of phage was more rapid and antibody appeared about 48 h earlier in rabbits than in badgers. Intramuscular administration of BSA and the use of adjuvants improved the badgers’ response, with greatest improvement in ABC. These results indicate that badgers display relatively poor immune responses to a variety of antigens.
The Effect of Concanavalin A and Wheat Germ Agglutinin on the Ultrastructure and Permeability of Rat Intestine
Authors: Sjölander Anita , Magnusson Karl-Eric , Latkovic Stevan
Published: August 2009

Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to lectins, either concanavalin A (Con A) or wheat germ agglutinin (WGA). The lectins were instilled into a ligated segment of the distal small intestine together with permeability markers, fluoresceinated dextran (MW 3,000) or a mixture of differently sized polyethylene glycols (MW 400, 600 and 1,000). WGA-treated rats showed a decreased permeability to small molecules (MW <600) of polyethylene glycol but an increase for a larger dextran molecule (MW 3,000). These effects as well as the morphological findings might mimic the situation in patients with food allergy or celiac disease. Con A-treated rats had decreased intestinal permeability to the larger dextran molecules (MW 3,000), whereas the passage of small molecules was unaffected and the ultrastructural effects were minute. The Con A-induced changes could result from a mucotractive effect, associated with a low-grade gut allergy. These observations suggest that lectins can affect both the ultrastructure and the permeability of the intestine, in a way assumed to mimic allergic reactions to food constituents.
Immediate Hypersensitivity Reactions to Cow Milk Proteins in Isolated Epithelium from Ileum of Milk-Drinking Guinea-Pigs: Comparisons with Colonic Epithelia
Authors: Baird A.W. , Coombs R.R.A. , McLaughlan P. , Cuthbert A.W.
Published: August 2009

The epithelium lining the ileum has been isolated and studied in vitro under short-circuit conditions. Tissues were obtained from guinea-pigs fed cow milk. When challenged with β-lactoglobulin on either the apical or basolateral side, a transient, inward flowing current was recorded. This reaction did not occur with tissues from non-milk drinking animals. Casein and α-lactalbumin, in contrast to β-lactoglobulin, produced only minor effects while bovine serum albumin and bovine γ-globulin were without effect. The effect with β-lactoglobulin was associated with overall fluid secretion in the basolateral to apical direction, although the ions responsible for carrying the current have not been identified. Possible mediators of the response to β-lactoglobulin have been investigated. Throughout the responses of the ileum have been compared with those in the colon. The differences between the two tissues is striking. The relevance of the model to mechanisms of food intolerance is discussed.
Regulation of Eosinophilia in Rats Infected with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis
Authors: Nawa Y. , Hirashima M.
Published: August 2009

The possible mechanism of eosinophilia was studied in rats undergoing primary infection with Nippostrongylus brasiliensis (Nb). In vivo studies showed that the kinetics of intestinal tissue eosinophilia was not directly related to those of the intestinal worm burden. Furthermore, Nb worm extract has no or only very weak in vitro eosinophil chemotactic activity, suggesting that parasite-derived eosinophil chemotactic factor (ECF) is, if at all, not a major regulator for intestinal tissue eosinophilia in this Nb rat system. On the other hand, when mesenteric lymph node (MLN) cells obtained various days after infection were cultured, potent ECF activity was detected in the cell-free supernatant from the cultures of MLN cells 15–20 days after infection, at which time marked intestinal tissue eosinophilia was observed in vivo. Production of ECF by MLN cells from Nb-infected rats seems to be spontaneous, since these cultures were performed without adding worm antigen. ECF-producing activity of day-20 MLN cells was suppressed by adding various metabolic inhibitors such as cycloheximide, mitomycin C, or puromycin. After Sephadex G-75 gel filtration, ECF activity produced by day-20 MLN cells was associated with two different molecules.
Cord Blood T Lymphocyte Subpopulations in Premature and Full-Term Infants
Authors: Lilja G. , Winbladh B. , Vedin I. , Petrini B.
Published: August 2009

Cord blood lymphocyte preparations from premature and full-term infants were examined for T cell subsets using monoclonal antibodies. The number of T cells in relation to the total number of lymphocytes, the proportions of T helper (Th), and T suppressor (Ts) phenotypes, respectively, were the same in preterm infants of gestational age (GA) 26–36 weeks and term infants (GA 38–41) weeks). There was no correlation between GA and Th/Ts ratio. The relative number Ts was significantly lower in infants than in adult women.
Inhibition of Slow-Reacting Substance Release by Calmodulin Blocker
Authors: Kajita T. , Taniguchi N. , Mita H. , Mishima T. , Yui Y. , Shida T.
Published: August 2009

It was examined whether a calmodulin blocker could inhibit release of slow-reacting substance from human leukocytes. W-7, a specific calmodulin blocker, completely inhibited slow-reacting substance release induced by calcium ionophore or mite allergen at 5 × 10––5M, while W-12, which had a lower affinity to calmodulin, failed to inhibit the release even at 10––4M. It was suggested that calmodulin was involved in mechanisms of slow-reacting substance release. Release of PGE2 and PGF2α by calcium ionophore was partially inhibited by 5 × 10––5M of W-7. The inhibitory effects of W-7 on slow-reacting substance release could be considered responsible for the suppression of phospholipase A2.
Allergen-Specific Immunoglobulin E Antibodies in Tears and Serum of Vernal Conjunctivitis Patients
Authors: Sompolinsky David , Samra Zemira , Zavaro Aron , Barishak Yomtov
Published: August 2009

Tears and sera of 53 patients of vernal conjunctivitis were examined for antibodies of the IgE type to a panel of 18 allergens. In 18 of the patients (34.0%) allergen-specific IgE was demonstrated in both tears and serum, in 3 (5.7%) in tears only, and in 4 (7.5%) in serum only. The antigen-specific reactions with tear fluid were found in patients with the highest total IgE levels, not only in tears but also in serum. This is evidence for a specific, local allergic reaction in these patients. Most positive reactions were to perennial allergens, particularly house dust mites, cat epithelium and Bermuda grass. This fact is in harmony with the lack of season-linked symptoms in most patients in this geographical area.
Production and Characterization of Antisera against Guinea Pig Macrophage Activating Factor
Authors: Peck Richard , Talmadge Ken , Polak Ladislav
Published: August 2009

Guinea pig lymph node cells stimulated with concanavalin A (Con-A) were used as a source of lymphokines. Purifications by molecular sizing columns yielded sufficient quantities of macrophage activating factor (MAF)-active fractions to allow immunization of rabbits. An antiserum was produced which is capable of specifically inhibiting MAF activity, as well as blocking the activity of macrophage migration inhibiting factor (MIF), but not of skin reactive factor. Antisera raised against control supernatants derived from lymph node cells not stimulated with Con-A, failed to specifically inhibit any of these lymphokines. Additionally, anti-MAF but not anti-control antibodies suppressed completely contact sensitivity to dinitrochlorobenzene.
Effects of FPL 55712, ETYA and Aminophylline upon Ascaris-Induced Bronchoconstriction in Cynomolgus Monkeys
Authors: Mielens Z.E. , Gorman W.G.
Published: August 2009

Dose-related impairment of pulmonary functions was induced in artificially respired, anesthetized cynomolgus monkeys by inhalation of aerosolized Ascaris antigen (AA) in ascending doses. The effects of pharmacologic agents were assessed by increases in threshold Ascaris dose (TAD). TAD were defined as the doses of AA needed for 20% increase in pulmonary resistance and 15% decrease in compliance. Inhaled FPL 55712, an SRS-A antagonist (1.24 mg through-the-valve dose; TTVD), and 5,8,11,14-eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA), an inhibitor of lipoxygenase and cyclooxygenase (1.0 mg TTVD) resulted in significant increases in the geometric means of TAD for changes in compliance (p < 0.01). The effects of both agents upon resistance were of borderline significance. Orally administered aminophylline (30 mg/kg) had no significant effect upon mean TAD for resistance or compliance. The activities of FPL 55712 and ETYA suggest that spasmogenic leukotrienes are involved in the pulmonary allergic reactions in cynomolgus monkeys.
Histamine Receptors on Leukocytes: The Binding of Histamine Serum Albumin Conjugates Is Non-Specific
Authors: Cohen M.G. , Munro A.J. , Dracott B.N. , Ife R.J. , Vickers M.R.
Published: August 2009

It is commonly held that certain leukocyte sub-populations adhere selectively to histamine-serum albumin conjugates. A large number of soluble histamine, ethylamine and dimethylaminopropylamine conjugates were synthesised and labelled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC). Although a number of conjugates bound to mononuclear cells and granulocytes our data showed this binding to be non-specific. The binding of histamine conjugates to leukocytes was not inhibited by preincubation of cells with free histamine at concentrations of up to 10––1Mnor was it pH sensitive. In addition, conjugates of ethylamine and dimethylaminopropylamine showed a similar binding pattern to that of histamine conjugates. We suggest that the observed binding may be due to modifications to the net charge of the carrier protein molecule.
A Role for Anaphylactic Sensitization in Tumor Control
Authors: Correnti María , Sánchez Mario , Suárez Chacón Raul
Published: August 2009

In order to evaluate the possible preventive role of an anaphylactic condition on tumor development, C57BL/6J mice were immunized or hyperimmunized by the intraperitoneal route with egg albumin in alum before the chemical induction of fibrosarcoma. Preimmunization using a protocol which elicits an optimal IgE response produced: (1) a significant reduction of tumor incidence; (2) an increase of survival time, and (3) a decrease of tumor growth rate in animals with higher IgE titers (> 640). On the other hand, hyperimmunized mice, which were suppressed in their anti-egg albumin IgE response, showed no changes in tumor incidence and survival time when compared to controls. Our results suggest a suppressive effect on tumor development related to the ability of the animal to mount an IgE response to antigens unrelated to the tumor.
Standardization of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus: Assessment of Potency and Allergen Content in Ten Coded Extracts
Authors: Ford A.W. , Rawle F.C. , Lind P. , Spieksma F.T.M. , Løwenstein H. , Platts-Mills T.A.E.
Published: August 2009

As part of the studies to establish an international reference preparation of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus allergens, ten coded extracts of this mite were assessed in four laboratories. The extracts were compared for total potency using direct RAST, RAST inhibition and quantitative skin tests, and also for composition and major allergen content using crossed immunoelectrophoresis, crossed radioimmunoelectrophoresis, rocket immunoelectrophoresis and radioimmunoassay. In addition, the source materials were examined by light microscopy, and the extracts were examined for the presence of proteins/allergens derived from the culture media. To help with standardization, a new reference pool of sera from patients allergic to D. pteronyssinus was also established (National Institute of Biological Standards and Control, NIBSC, 82/528). The results showed that techniques are available for measurements of potency and allergen content. In several of the extracts, culture medium derived allergens and antigens were demonstrated. It also became clear that extracts varied not only in their total potency but also in the distribution of the identifiable allergens. In particular, extracts derived from isolated mites contained more AgX and/or Ag 23 relative to their content of antigen P1 (= Ag42). These studies lead to the choice of an extract for an international reference preparation (NIBSC 82/518) and helped to establish the methods used subsequently in the international collaborative study.
Detection of House Dust Mite Allergens and Frequency of IgE Binding following Electroblotting and Enzyme Immunoassay
Authors: Tovey E.R. , Baldo B.A.
Published: August 2009

Mite allergens, fractionated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and transferred to nitrocellulose membranes, were identified using 45 mite atopic sera and an enzyme immunostaining assay for IgE. More than 20 different mite components bound IgE and almost every serum showed a different pattern of binding. 7 of the 20 components were bound by half of the sera and 70% were bound by at least 20% of the sera. These results demonstrate a greater number of house dust mite allergens and a far greater diversity of the IgE antibody response to mite allergens than has previously been described.
Growth Inhibition of Fibroblasts by Progesterone and Medroxyprogesterone in vitro
Authors: Concini Andrada Enia , Hoschoian Juan C. , Anton Elsa , Lanari Alfredo
Published: August 2009

This study was carried out to evaluate in vitro the beneficial effects observed in various aggressive fibromatoses (mediastinal, retroperitoneal, paraneoplastic fibrosis and desmoid tumors) after treatment with progesterone. Primary cultures of fibroblasts were prepared from fetuses of Swiss strain mice. Continuous fibroblast lines LM and Vero were also used. Moreover, cultures of nonfetal human fibroblast from skin and lung were employed. Epithelial tumor cell line HeLa was used as a control. All cultures were incubated with various doses of progesterone at concentrations from 1.4 × 10––4 to 1.4 × 10––3M. Human cells and monolayers of fetal murine fibroblast were submitted to the action of medroxyprogesterone solution at the same concentrations as used for progesterone. Other steroids (estrone, estriol, testosterone and prednisolone) were used at the identical concentrations in the same vehicles. Progesterone affected all lines of fibroblasts studied and destroyed them within either 2–4 or 24–48 h depending on the steroid concentrations used. Medroxyprogesterone had a comparable effect on human cell lines and monolayers of fetal murine fibroblasts provided that the same ratio between the hormone concentration and the time of exposure was maintained. With higher medium concentrations shorter times of incubation were required for the destruction of fibroblast. However, to observe a degree of lysis similar to that elicited by progesterone, it was necessary to use 4 times higher concentrations of medroxyprogesterone. No effect on HeLa epithelial cells was observed nor were the controls affected by the steroids or diluents used at the appropriate concentrations. Results from incubation studies using monolayers of murine fibroblast and 14C-progesterone suggested that the cells were destroyed by the progesterone and not by a bio-product of its metabolism.
Immunoglobulin E in Feces from Children with Allergy
Authors: Kolmannskog Svein , Haneberg Bjørn
Published: August 2009

Immunoglobulin E (IgE) was found by a double antibody radioimmunoassay technique (PRIST) in extracts of feces from 21 of 40 children with different kinds of allergy. 15 of the 22 children with gastrointestinal allergy and atopic dermatitis, but only 6 of the 17 patients with hay fever and/or bronchial asthma had detectable IgE in the extracts. The patients with gastrointestinal allergy also had the highest concentrations of fecal IgE, and the concentrations in feces did not correlate with the corresponding serum IgE levels. Furthermore, the presence of IgE in feces correlated with specific IgE antibodies in serum, measured as the sum of RAST classes to the food allergens wheat, fish, cow’s milk and egg-white. IgE may therefore have been produced locally in the gut as a result of stimulation by food allergens. Since the concentrations of IgA in feces were also high in many children with allergy, and since some possibility of a positive correlation with high IgE concentration seemed to exist, the stimuli for local production of IgE and IgA may be interrelated.
Distribution of Allergen Activity and Identification of the Main IgE-Binding Glycopeptide of Parietaria judaica Pollen
Authors: Corbí A.L. , Carreira J.
Published: August 2009

Parietaria judaica pollen extract was separated by preparative isoelectric focusing and showed two allergenic components (A1 and A2) heterogeneously distributed within the pH gradient (pH 3-10). By fused-rocket immunoelectrophoresis, A1 was detected from pH 3 to 10, whereas A2 was only found at pH values below 8. Both components, A1 and A2, showed IgE-binding ability throughout their pH ranges, as determined by crossed-radio immunoelectrophoresis. In addition, all the preparative isoelectric focusing fractions contained the main allergenic polypeptide of P. judaica (Pj10) when analyzed by SDS-PAGE. This polypeptide was shown to be a glycopeptide or to be bound to a glycoprotein with α-D-mannopyranoside or α-D-glycopyrano-side residues. Implication of charged sugar residues in the wide distribution of P. judaica allergens in a pH gradient is discussed.
Pattern of the Primary and Secondary Antibody Responses Elicited by TNP-LPS in Mice
Authors: Huchet R.
Published: August 2009

Trinitrophenylated lipopolysaccharide (TNP-LPS) at high doses (30 μg) induces thymus-independent IgM and IgG anti-TNP responses. At low doses (0.3 μg) it elicits only an IgM anti-TNP response. TNP-LPS primes for a secondary response of IgG type only when given at high doses (30 μg): this response is thymus dependent.
Inhibition of Neutrophil Phospholipase A2 by p-Bromophenylacyl Bromide, Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid, 5,8,11,14-Eicosatetrayenoic Acid and Quercetin
Authors: Lanni C. , Becker E.L.
Published: August 2009

The lipoxygenase and/or cyclooxygenase inhibitors nordihydroguaiaretic acid (NDGA), 4,8,11 14-eicosatetrayenoic acid (ETYA) and the bioflavonoid, quercetin, also inhibit phospholipase A2 (phosphatidase 2-acyl hydrolase; EC 3.1.1.4) activity of neutrophil acid extracts and sonicates. The IC50 are 13 μM for NDGA, 22 μM for ETYA, and 100 μM for quercetin when measured on the neutrophil acid extracts; the IC50 obtained with the sonicates are 11 μM, 12 μM and 57 μM, respectively. p-Bromophenylacyl bromide (BPB) inhibits the phospholipase A2 activity of neutrophil acid extracts with an IC50 of 10 μM. In contrast, intact neutrophils incubated for up to 1 h with BPB, washed to remove the drug, and sonicated to expose the phospholipase A2, lose less than 20% of their activity. This strongly suggests that BPB does not inhibit neutrophil function by preventing phospholipase action.
Mast Cell Heterogeneity in Man
Authors: Befus D. , Goodacre R. , Dyck N. , Bienenstock J.
Published: August 2009

We have studied the distribution and abundance of histochemically distinct mast cell subpopulations in the normal small and large intestine of man. One subpopulation has histochemical properties similar to the functionally distinct intestinal mucosal mast cell (MMC) of the rat and the other has properties similar to the widely distributed mast cell found in connective tissues and the peritoneal cavity of many animals. Both subpopulations are present in intestinal epithelium, lamina propria, submucosa and muscularis mucosa, and muscle. However, the subpopulation histochemically similar to the rodent MMC is significantly more abundant than the other in all sites in the large intestine and also in the lamina propria and muscle of the small intestine. It is important to determine whether these histochemically distinct mast cell subpopulations in man differ in their responses to various secretagogues and antiallergic compounds as in the rat.
Enhanced Lung Clearance of Antigen in Immunised Mice
Authors: Taylor F.G.R. , Bourne F.J.
Published: August 2009

A mouse model is described which enables a semi-quantitative assessment of antigen clearance from the lung. The distribution of antigen presented to the non-sensitised lung is examined and shown to be reproducible using a simple in vivo inoculation technique. Preliminary studies demonstrate that antigen clearance is significantly enhanced after parenteral immunisation and that the effect is antigen specific. Applications of the model to further studies of respiratory challenge are suggested.
Reduction of Antigen-Induced Contraction of Sensitized Guinea-Pig Tracheal Smooth Muscle in vitro by Calmodulin Inhibitors
Authors: Nagai Hiroichi , Yamada Hiroaki , Goto Shouichi , Inagaki Naoki , Koda Akihide
Published: August 2009

The effect of two calmodulin inhibitors, 1-[bis(p-chlorophenyl)methyl]-3-[2,4-dichloro-β-(2,4-dichlorobenzyloxy)phenethyl]imidazolinium chloride (R 24571) and chlorpromazine (CPZ) on antigen-induced contraction of guinea-pig tracheal smooth muscle was studied. Ketotifen, an anti-allergic compound, was used as a comparative drug. Contraction of sensitized guinea-pig trachea induced by antigen challenge was reduced by all three agents. The two calmodulin inhibitors effected relaxation of contraction of guinea-pig trachea induced by histamine and leukotriene D4 (LTD4). Ketotifen relaxed histamine-induced contraction, but hardly affected LTD4-induced tone. Contrary to chemical mediator induced tone, all examined agents had no effect on resting tone. These three agents shifted histamine- and LTD4-induced concentration-contraction curves to the right. They produced a downward displacement of the maximum, without a parallel shift in histamine- and LTD4-induced concentration-contraction curves. The two calmodulin inhibitors did not affect the antigen-induced release of histamine and SRS-A from sensitized guinea-pig lung tissue. Ketotifen slightly inhibited the release of histamine. These results suggest that R 24571 and CPZ, calmodulin inhibitors, reduced an antigen-induced contraction of sensitized guinea-pig trachea in vitro mainly by affecting the contractility of tracheal smooth muscle by chemical mediators but not by interfering with the release of mediators.
Murine Lymphocyte Responses to Purified Components of Rye Grass Pollen Extract
Authors: Moran D.M. , Cottam G.P. , Standring R. , Cook R.M.
Published: August 2009

The ability of lymphocytes obtained from mice treated with whole rye grass pollen extract or purified major allergen components (R7 – apparent molecular weight 31,000; R14a – apparent molecular weight 11,000) to proliferate in culture on challenge with these allergens has been studied. Whole rye grass pollen extract was found to stimulate responses with lymphocytes from all treated but not non-treated animals, whereas the purified allergens failed to effect proliferation except with cells obtained from animals treated with the homologous allergen. These results accord with previous observations that, of the antigen present in the whole rye grass pollen extract, the components showing greatest immunogenicity in murine systems are not those commonly regarded as being the major allergens in man. The mouse may not thus provide a relevant model of human immune responses to rye grass pollen extracts.
Regulation of Immune Response by Preadministration of Cells Briefly Pulsed with Antigen in vitro
Authors: Hara Makoto , Yokomuro Kozo , Mabuchi Ayako , Kimura Yoshitami
Published: August 2009

An intravenous administration of syngeneic spleen cells (SPCs) caused the reduction of antigen presenting activity of splenic adherent cells (SACs). The antigen presenting activity of SACs was reduced 10 days after the intravenous injection of 5 × 107 antigen pulsed or antigen nonpulsed SPCs. In contrast, when mice were immunized 5 days after the intravenous injection of SPCs, antigen presenting activity was reduced in the mice injected with antigen pulsed SPCs, and not in the mice injected with antigen nonpulsed SPCs. This reduction was recovered by the administration of cyclophosphamide 3 days before the injection of antigen pulsed SPCs, suggesting that suppressor T cells played an important role in the reduction of antigen presenting activity.
Quantitation of Immunoglobulin Isotypes in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemic Cells Compared with Normal Adult and Neonatal Lymphocytes
Authors: Johnstone Alan P. , Millard Rosemary E.
Published: August 2009

Radioimmunoassays were used to measure the total cellular content of μ, γ, α, δ, κ and λ immunoglobulin chains in peripheral blood lymhocytes from normal adults, neonates and 11 patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL). Normal adult lymphocytes contained all classes of immunoglobulin, but predominantly IgG, associated with both types of light chain (κ:λ ratio 2:1). In contrast, μ was the major heavy chain in cells from 10 of the CLL patients, and the small amount of IgG found in CLL cells was not produced by the leukaemic clone. Approximately equimolar amounts of one type of light chain were also present, indicating monoclonality. The class distribution of the immunoglobulin in the neonatal cells was intermediate between that of CLL and normal adult cells. CLL B cells had substantially less surface IgM than normal but more cytoplasmic IgM. These data demonstrate the immaturity of neonatal B cells and suggest that CLL cells are also immature – at a stage not normally found in the adult circulation.
Suppression of Murine IgE Responses with Amino Acid Polymer/Allergen Conjugates
Authors: Whittall N. , Moran D.M. , Wheeler A.W. , Cottam G.P.
Published: August 2009

A procedure utilising the latent activating potential of the 4-(methylmercapto)phenyl ester group has been developed for the controlled, reproducible preparation of macromolecular conjugates. This ester, as part of a succinyl-bridging group, was used to couple the water-soluble, amino acid polymer, poly-(N-methylglycine) (polysarcosine), via its N-terminal secondary amine, with the nucleophilic components of the aqueous extract of a mixture of grass pollens. The products exhibit a reproducible, antigen-specific suppressive effect on the in vivo synthesis of IgE in mice.
Factors Influencing Human IgE Synthesis in vitro and in vivo
Authors: de Weck A.L. , Stadler B.M. , Knutti-Müller J. , Ruff P. , Hofstetter H. , Lüdin C. , Heusser C.
Published: August 2009

Several pitfalls may affect studies on human IgE synthesis in vitro. In this paper, the requirement for stringent specificity of the anti-IgE antibodies used and for assessment not only of IgE detectable in culture supernatants but also as cell-associated IgE is emphasized. The use of cycloheximide-treated cultures as controls also leaves wishes open. Activated, human T cells and T cell hybridomas produce IgE-binding factors, which may be detected by a sensitive in vitro test and which may apparently also become the endeavour of synthesis by molecular biological techniques. Although the evidence available in rodents for the role of IgE-binding factors in modulating IgE synthesis has not yet been fully reproduced by us in man, the fact that classical IgE-enhancing procedures in rodents (e.g. radiotherapy, T cell suppression) also affect IgE production in man leads to believe that similar immunoregulation mechanisms apply to the various mammalian species studied so far.
Pharmacology of the Late Response to Allergen and Its Relevance to Asthma Prophylaxis
Authors: Morley J. , Page C.P. , Sanjar S.
Published: August 2009

Inhalation of allergen by sensitised asthmatics results in an acute increase of airways resistance that, in some individuals, is succeeded by a response of late-onset. Late-onset responses are associated with an increased airway reactivity to constrictor stimuli that lasts for several days and hence may be akin to exacerbation of clinical asthma. For this reason, much attention has been given to inhibition of late-onset reactions by glucocorticosteroids or by cromoglycate. Such effects have been cited as evidence of anti-asthma efficacy for these drugs and also for ketotifen, as might be anticipated from prophylactic efficacy in clinical asthma. More recently, a similar inhibitory effect has been demonstrated for theophylline, which is in marked contrast to Β-adrenoceptor agonists, which have long been known not to inhibit expression of late-onset reactions. The profile of drug sensitivity observed for late-onset reactions precludes mast cell stabilisation as an adequate explanation, since late-onset reactions are unaffected by Β-adrenoceptor agonists, notwithstanding the potency of such drugs as inhibitors of mast cell secretion; furthermore, late-onset reactions can be inhibited by nonste-roidal anti-inflammatory drugs, even though such drugs can enhance mast cell secretion. Rather, present evidence favours platelet-activating factor (PAF, Paf-acether, AGEPC) as a primary determinant of late-onset reactions, especially since responses to this material can be inhibited by cromoglycate, glucocorticosteroids, ketotifen and theophylline, and since there is substantial evidence that PAF has properties that could account for exacerbation of asthma.
Special Presentation: Self-Management of Asthma Programs in the USA
Authors: Goldstein Robert A.
Published: August 2009

In the USA during the past 5 years, there has been a renaissance of scientific interest and research into health education and programs of self-management. It has not, however, always been possible to translate gains in healthy individuals into similar progress for persons with chronic illness. Among chronic disorders affecting children, asthma ranks as a prominent cause of morbidity and school absenteeism. To accomplish this, NIH and NIAID has supported a variety of asthma self-management programs aimed at enhancing knowledge of disease among patients and parents. A further goal has been to translate this knowledge to changes in behavior in order to reduce morbidity of disease. The most successful programs have been conducted by non-physician health care professionals (nurses, social workers, teachers). The least successful programs have included mass distribution of printed materials by pharmaceutical companies and lay organizations. It is believed that broader application of such programs will help not only the patient but the physician improve the care of asthmatic individuals.
Type I Allergy to Egg and Milk Proteins: Comparison of Skin Prick Tests with Nasal, Buccal and Gastric Provocation Tests
Authors: Amlot P.L. , Urbanek R. , Youlten L.J.F. , Kemeny M. , Lessof M.H.
Published: August 2009

Provocation tests with egg or milk antigens were performed on symptomatic patients or those who were skin prick test positive to these antigens. Skin test positive patients responded immediately in 12/13 to nasal, in 7/15 to buccal and in 5/15 to gastric provocation tests. An immediate gastric response was within 1 h. The threshold dose for a positive result showed that tissue sensitivity from greatest to least was in the order: skin, nasal, buccal and gastric. None of the skin test negative group responded to any of the provocation tests. The results, particularly the nasal provocation, validate the skin prick test as a sensitive measure of type I allergy to defined foods. The relative insensitivity of buccal and gastric mucosae may explain positive skin test responses in asymptomatic subjects.
Histamine and Human Heart
Authors: Triggiani M. , Genovese A. , Vigorito C. , Marone G.
Published: August 2009

Heart fragments obtained from human right atrium contain 1.5 ± 0.2 μg of histamine per gram of wet tissue. Human heart spontaneously synthetizes significant amounts of PGI2, PGF2α, PGE2 and TxA2. The Ca2+ ionophore A 23187 (0.5–3 μg/ml) dose-dependently induces histamine release and prostanoid production. Histamine (0.5–1 μg/kg/min) infusion in 10 normal donors produced an increase in heart rate and a significant depression of the ST segment. Selective H1 receptor stimulation in patients undergoing cardiac catheterization resulted in a decrease of the mean aortic pressure and of coronary vascular resistance.
The Human Adenoidal Mast Cell. Suceptibility to Different Secretagogues and Secretion Inhibitors
Authors: Schmutzler W. , Delmich K. , Eichelberg D. , Glück S. , Greven T. , Jürgensen H. , Riesener K.P. , Risse G. , Pult P.
Published: August 2009

Mast cells from adenoid tissues of man do not form a homogeneous population but differ in size and ultrastructure. They degranulate on stimulation with specific antigen, ionophore A 23187, Concanavalin A and, under certain conditions, antihuman IgE or acetylcholine. Compound 48/80, dextran, purified C3a or C5a are ineffective. Adenosine exerts either an enhancing or inhibiting effect on the stimulated histamine release, depending on the actual conditions of the mast cells. The study of a range of known mast cell degranulation inhibitors revealed important differences between human adenoidal mast cells and human basophils or animal mast cell systems. The efficacies of the drugs or drug combinations so far tested correspond well with the established therapeutic effects in man.