bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitive Multicolor Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization Using Catalyzed Reporter Deposition (CARD) Amplification
Authors: Speel Ernst J.M. , Ramaekers Frans C.S. , Hopman Anton H.N.
Published: April 2011

We describe the simultaneous localization of DNA sequences in cell and chromosome preparations by means of differently fluorochrome-labeled (AMCA, FITC, TRITC) tyramides using the catalyzed reporter deposition (CARD) procedure. For this purpose, repeated as well as single-copy DNA probes were labeled with biotin, digoxigenin, and FITC, hybridized, and visualized with three different cytochemical detection systems based on horseradish peroxidase conjugates. These were sequentially applied to interphase nuclei and metaphase chromosomes at low concentrations to prevent crossreaction and nonspecific background. In situ localized peroxidase activity was visualized by the deposition of fluorochrome-labeled tyramide molecules. To allow specific deposition of a second and a third tyramide conjugate for multiple-target fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), remaining peroxidase activity was always completely inactivated by a mild acid treatment before application of the next peroxidase conjugate. The CARD reactions were optimized for maximal signal-to-noise ratio and discrete localization by tuning reaction time, H2O2, and tyramide concentrations. For both repeated and single-copy DNA targets, high FISH signal intensities were obtained, providing improvement of sensitivity over conventional indirect detection systems. In addition, the fluorescence CARD detection system proved to be highly efficient and easy to implement in multiple-labeling studies, such as reported here for FISH.
Biotinyl–Tyramide: A Novel Approach for Electron Microscopic Immunocytochemistry
Authors: Mayer Gaétan , Bendayan Moïse
Published: April 2011

The biotinyl–tyramide protocol recently introduced for sensitive light microscopic immunocytochemistry was applied to electron microscopy and revealed various tissue antigens with high resolution. The protocol consists of an indirect method in which thin tissue sections are incubated successively within a specific primary antibody, followed by a biotinylated secondary antibody, streptavidin–HRP, and then finally with biotinyl–tyramide. The reaction product appears as a dense filamentous material that is deposited over particular cellular compartments. The labeling obtained for the antigens tested, amylase and heat-shock protein 70 in pancreatic acinar cells, insulin in pancreatic β-cells, and carbamoyl phosphate synthetase and catalase in liver tissue, was found to be highly specific, with the labeling for each antigen confined to its particular cellular compartment. Background levels and nonspecific deposition of the staining were negligible. The use of biotinyl–tyramide therefore appears to be an alternative sensitive technique for immunoelectron microscopy. (J Histochem Cytochem 45:1449–1454, 1997)
Receptors for the Chemoattractants C5a and IL-8 Are Clustered on the Surface of Human Neutrophils
Authors: Gray Gary D. , Hasslen Sharon R. , Ember Julia A. , Carney David F. , Herron Michael J. , Erlandsen Stanley L. , Nelson Robert D.
Published: April 2011

We have used high-resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy with backscatter electron imaging to detect immunogold-labeled C5a and interleukin-8 (IL-8) receptors on human blood neutrophils. The receptors were labeled with receptor-specific antibodies in combination with secondary antibody conjugated to immunogold. When neutrophils were isolated in a “nonactivated” state, both of these receptor populations were expressed primarily in clusters on nonprojecting domains of the cell membrane. When these cells were double labeled for C5a and IL-8 receptors, intermixing of these receptor species in a common cluster was not found. When neutrophils were isolated in an “activated” state, by mixing the blood with N-formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine, the cells were seen to be elongated and ruffled at their anterior pole, but the C5a receptors did not disperse or redistribute on the surface of the peptide-activated cells. Analysis of the distribution of human C5a receptors expressed by transfected mouse L-cell fibroblasts showed the C5a receptors to be clustered, but expressed on nonprojecting and projecting domains of the cell surface. These observations provide new information on the topographical expression of leukocyte receptors involved in directing cell migration. (J Histochem Cytochem 45:1461–1467, 1997)
Autometallographic Silver Enhancement of Zinc Sulfide Crystals Created in Cryostat Sections from Human Brain Biopsies: A New Technique that Makes it Feasible to Demonstrate Zinc Ions in Tissue Sections from Biopsies and Early Autopsy Material
Authors: Danscher Gorm , Juhl S⊘ren , Stoltenberg Meredin , Krunderup Bjarne , Schr⊘der Henrik D. , Andreasen Arne
Published: April 2011

We present a new technique that allows zinc ions in synaptic and secretory vesicles of biopsy and early autopsy material (>2 hr post mortem) to be transformed to nanometer-sized zinc sulfide crystal lattices for subsequent autometallographic (AMG) development. Human brain biopsies, or other tissue samples containing zinc-enriched (ZEN) cells, are frozen in liquid nitrogen or by CO2 gas immediately after removal. The tissue blocks are cut in a cryostat and the sections placed on glass slides. The slides are transferred to an H2S exposure chamber placed in a −15C freezer. After 1–24 hr of gas exposure the sections are removed from the chamber, fixed while thawing, and dehydrated. The sections are then exposed to an AMG developer. AMG causes silver enhancement of zinc sulfide crystal lattices created in the tissues through the H2S exposure, making them visible. It is imperative that the tissues are frozen instantaneously after removal, because loosely bound or free zinc ions start leaving their vesicular compartment soon after death. The AMG technique can, despite inadequate fixation and damage to the tissue caused by freezing, also be used to trace zinc ions at ultrastructural levels, and it is demonstrated that zinc ions in the human neocortex are located in synaptic vesicles. In the few human biopsies analyzed thus far, the light microscopic pattern created by the silver-enhanced ZEN terminals resembles that seen in the neocortex of rat brain. The technique has been applied to cryostat sections from neocortex biopsies of five individuals undergoing brain surgery. Biopsies from three patients resulted in satisfactory AMG-stained sections. Rat brains removed and frozen immediately after decapitation constituted the material on which the present technique was developed. Such material results in an almost uniform high quality of staining, and we found that unexposed sections can be stored for at least 5 months at −80C without ensuing significant loss of AMG staining intensity. (J Histochem Cytochem 45:1503–1510, 1997)
Retrovirus-mediated Gene Transfer into Rat Salivary Gland Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Barka Tibor , Noen Hendrika M. van der
Published: April 2011

A retroviral vector DAP that encodes the human placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP) and the neomycin-resistant gene was used to transduce the salivary gland-derived cell line A5 in vitro and acinar cells in rat submandibular gland in vivo. Expression of the transduced PLAP gene was established by histochemical staining for heat-resistant AP and by determination of enzyme activity. From the in vitro experiments, we concluded that the salivary gland-derived cell line A5 can be infected by the retroviral vector DAP. In the transduced cells the viral long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter was effective, and the cells expressed heat-stable PLAP which was localized mostly in the plasma membrane and could be released by treatment with bromelain or phosphatidyinositol-specific phospholipase C. A5-DAP cells secreted PLAP into the medium. Clones of A5-DAP cells expressed various levels of the enzyme. The level of enzyme activity in different clones was unrelated to growth rate. Retrograde ductal injection of the viral vector into the duct of the submandibular gland of rats resulted in integration and long-term expression of PLAP gene in acinar cells. Expression of PLAP was seen up to 25 days, the limit of the observation period. To facilitate integration of the viral DNA, cell division of acinar cells was induced by administration of the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol before administration of the virus. PLAP was secreted into submandibular saliva. The data support the notion that salivary glands are suitable targets for gene transfer in vivo by a retroviral vector.

(J Histochem Cytochem 45:1533–1545, 1997)
Application of Photoshop-based Image Analysis to Quantification of Hormone Receptor Expression in Breast Cancer
Authors: Lehr Hans-Anton , Mankoff David A. , Corwin David , Santeusanio Guiseppe , Gown Allen M.
Published: April 2011

The benefit of quantifying estrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) expression in breast cancer is well established. However, in routine breast cancer diagnosis, receptor expression is often quantified in arbitrary scores with high inter- and intraobserver variability. In this study we tested the validity of an image analysis system employing inexpensive, commercially available computer software on a personal computer. In a series of 28 invasive ductal breast cancers, immunohistochemical determinations of ER and PR were performed, along with biochemical analyses on fresh tumor homogenates, by the dextran-coated charcoal technique (DCC) and by enzyme immunoassay (EIA). From each immunohistochemical slide, three representative tumor fields (x20 objective) were captured and digitized with a Macintosh personal computer. Using the tools of Photoshop software, optical density plots of tumor cell nuclei were generated and, after background subtraction, were used as an index of immunostaining intensity. This immunostaining index showed a strong semilogarithmic correlation with biochemical receptor assessments of ER (DCC, r = 0.70, p >0.001; EIA, r = 0.76, p >0.001) and even better of PR (DCC, r = 0.86; p >0.01; EIA, r = 0.80, p >0.001). A strong linear correlation of ER and PR quantification was also seen between DCC and EIA techniques (ER, r = 0.62, p >0.001; PR, r = 0.92, p >0.001). This study demonstrates that a simple, inexpensive, commercially available software program can be accurately applied to the quantification of immunohistochemical hormone receptor studies.

(J Histochem Cytochem 45:1559–1565, 1997)
Optimization of Nuclear Transcript Detection by FISH and Combination with Fluorescence Immunocytochemical Detection of Transcription Factors
Authors: Jolly Caroline , Mongelard Fabien , Robert-Nicoud Michel , Vourc'h Claire
Published: April 2011

Detection of specific nuclear transcripts by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) has constituted a major breakthrough in the study of the organization of transcription in the cell nucleus. Using the model of heat shock genes, we present an optimized procedure for nuclear transcripts that provides high efficiency for RNA detection and good preservation of cell morphology and nuclear texture. Using this procedure, we designed an original high-efficiency methodology combining FISH and fluorescence immunocytochemistry (FICC), which is used here for the simultaneous detection of heat-shock protein (hsp) nuclear transcripts and the specific heat-shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1). We show that the nuclear accumulation sites of HSF1 in heat-shocked cells do not correspond to the sites of transcription of the hsp70 gene.
Tissue-specific Expression of the Relaxed Conformation of Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-2 and Low-density Lipoprotein Receptor-related Protein in Human Term Gestational Tissues
Authors: Tsatas Dina , Baker Mark S. , Rice Gregory E.
Published: April 2011

The relaxed conformation of plasminogen activator inhibitor-2 (PAIr) is formed during inactivation of the matrix-degrading enzyme urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA). The presence of PAIr in tissues, therefore, indicates the in situ inhibition of uPA-mediated proteolysis. In addition, PAIr functions as a ligand for the clearance receptor low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein (LRP), thereby promoting internalization of receptor-bound uPA-PAIr complexes from the cell surface. The rapid internalization of receptor-bound, inactivated uPA has been suggested to be characteristic of invasive cell phenotypes. The aims of this study were to characterize the immunohistochemical localization of PAIr in human term gestational tissues (amnion, choriodecidua, and placenta) and to establish its co-expression with other components of the uPA cascade. The results obtained indicate that PAIr immunoreactivity was exclusively localized to amnion epithelial cells, with only minimal staining in the underlying chorion. PAIr immunoreactivity was not detectable in any of the trophoblastic tissues examined (villous and extravillous). The tissue-specific expression of PAIr immunoreactivity was not significantly altered in association with labor onset. uPA and PAI-2 staining was localized predominantly to amnion epithelial cells, underlying chorion, and trophoblast cells of villous and extravillous tissue. Amnion and trophoblasts of extravillous and chorionic tissue showed uPAR immunoreactivity, whereas staining in placenta was absent. Immunoreactive LRP was confined to trophoblasts of the chorion, and the villous and extravillous tissue. For the first time, localization of PAIr at the tissue level has been identified. The data obtained are consistent with the hypothesis that cells of invasive phenotype, although expressing all components of the uPA cascade, do not accumulate immunoreactive PAIr, because it is rapidly internalized from the cell surface. Conversely, cells of noninvasive phenotype will accumulate PAIr immunoreactivity only in the absence of LRP expression. We propose that the presence of PAIr and the absence of LRP at the cell surface are putative markers of noninvasive phenotypes.
Regional and Ultrastructural Immunolocalization of Copper-Zinc Superoxide Dismutase in Rat Central Nervous System
Authors: Moreno Sandra , Nardacci Roberta , Cerù Maria Paola
Published: April 2011

We examined the distribution of copper-zinc superoxide dismutase (CuZn-SOD) in adult rat central nervous system by light and electron microscopic immunocytochemistry, using an affinity-purified polyclonal antibody. The enzyme appeared to be exclusively localized in neurons. No immunoreactivity was seen in non-neuronal cells. The staining intensity was variable, depending on the brain region and, within the same region, on the neuron type. Highly immunoreactive elements included cortical neurons evenly distributed in the different layers, hippocampal interneurons, neurons of the reticular thalamic nucleus, and Golgi, stellate, and basket cells of the cerebellar cortex. Other neurons, i.e., pyramidal cells of the neocortex and hippocampus, Purkinje and granule cells of the cerebellar cortex, and the majority of thalamic neurons, showed much weaker staining. In the spinal cord, intense CuZnSOD immunoreactivity was present in many neurons, including motor neurons. Pre-embedding immunoelectron microscopy of the neocortex, hippocampus, reticular thalamic nucleus, and cerebellar cortex showed cytosolic and nucleoplasmic labeling. Moreover, single membrane-limited immunoreactive organelles identified as peroxisomes were often found, even in neurons that appeared weakly stained at the light microscopic level. In double immunogold labeling experiments, particulate CuZn-SOD immunoreactivity co-localized with catalase, a marker enzyme for peroxisomes, thus demonstrating that in neural tissue CuZnSOD is also present in peroxisomes.
Enzyme-based Antigen Localization and Quantitation in Cell and Tissue Samples (Midwestern Assay)
Authors: Roth Kevin A. , Brenner Jennifer W. , Selznick Lee A. , Gokden Murat , Lorenz Robin G.
Published: April 2011

Quantitation of antigen concentration in cell and tissue samples typically requires antigen extraction, which precludes antigen localization in the same sample. Similarly, antigen immunolocalization in fixed cells or tissue sections provides limited information about antigen concentration. We have developed a rapid and sensitive assay for simultaneous antigen localization and quantitation in cell and tissue samples that does not involve antigen extraction, radioactive materials, or image analysis. Fixed cells and/or tissue sections are used with antigen-specific enzyme-linked probes to generate soluble reaction products that are spectrophotometrically quantifiable and deposited reaction products that are microscopically localizable. The amount of soluble reaction product is dependent on several variables, including antigen concentration, probe specificity and sensitivity, sample size, and enzyme reaction time. These variables can be experimentally controlled so that soluble reaction product is proportional to antigen concentration in the sample. This assay was used in multiple applications including detection of Ki-67 nuclear antigen immunoreactivity in human brain tumors, in which it showed a clear relationship with visually determined Ki-67 cell labeling indexes. This assay, termed the Midwestern assay, should be applicable to a wide variety of antigens in both clinical and research samples.
Detection of Phosphatidylinositol Glycan Class A Gene Transcripts by RT In Situ PCR Hybridization: A Comparative Study Using Fluorescein, Texas Red, and Digoxigenin-11 dUTP for Color Detection
Authors: Simon Susan , Reipert Birgit , Eibl Martha M. , Steinkasserer Alexander
Published: April 2011

Gene-specific probes labeled with fluorescein, Texas Red, and digoxigenin-11 dUTP (DIG) were used for RT in situ PCR hybridization to detect PIG-A gene (phosphatidyl-inositol glycan class A) transcripts. The PIG-A gene is responsible for biosynthesis of the glycosylphosphatidyl-inositol (GPI) anchor. Lack of GPI anchor expression due to mutations can cause an acquired clonal hematologic disorder called paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH). In this RT in situ PCR study, two types of labeling methods, a direct method (using fluorescein and Texas Red) and an indirect method (using DIG-11 dUTP) were compared. Both were successfully applied to detect and localize the PIG-A gene transcripts within single cells of the cell lines AA2, H9, and JY. Furthermore, similar results for sensitivity and reproducibility were obtained. Advantages and disadvantages of the different labeling techniques are discussed. In addition, peripheral blood mononuclear cells from PNH patients were also included in this study.
The Secretory Granule and Pro-opiomelanocortin Processing in Xenopus Melanotrope Cells During Background Adaptation
Authors: Berghs Constance A.F.M. , Tanaka Shigeyasu , Strien Frank J.C. Van , Kurabuchi Shingo , Roubos Eric W.
Published: April 2011

In this immunocytochemical study, we used light and electron microscopic observations in combination with morphometry to analyze the processing of pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) in melanotrope cells of the intermediate pituitary of Xenopus laevis adapted to either a white or a black background. An antiserum was raised against a synthetic peptide including the cleavage site between ACTH and β-lipotropic hormone in Xenopus. Western blotting revealed that this antiserum recognizes only a 38-kD protein, the POMC prohormone, from extracts of Xenopus neurointermediate pituitary. Light immunocytochemistry showed differential immunostaining for anti-POMC compared to anti-α-MSH. Anti-POMC was predominantly found in the perinuclear region, whereas anti-α-MSH yielded staining throughout the cytoplasm. Immunogold double labeling revealed that electron-dense secretory granules (DGs) show high immunoreactivity for anti-POMC and low immunoreactivity for anti-α-MSH. Electron-lucent granules (LGs) are immunoreactive to anti-α-MSH only. Moderately electron-dense granules (MGs) revealed intermediate reactivity compared to DGs and LGs. Background light intensity has significant effects on the morphology and the immunoreactivity of the secretory granules. Black-adapted animals have 4.5 times as many DGs and MGs as white-adapted animals. In addition, the MGs in black animals show 42% more anti-α-MSH immunogold than the MGs in white animals. Together, these findings indicate that the three granule types represent subsequent stages in granule maturation. Adaptation to a black background stimulates the formation of young immature granules, while at the same time the processing rate during granule maturation increases.
Immunohistochemical and Ultrastructural Localization of MP78/70 (βig-h3) in Extracellular Matrix of Developing and Mature Bovine Tissues
Authors: Gibson Mark A. , Kumaratilake Jaliya S. , Cleary Edward G.
Published: April 2011

MP78/70 is a matrix protein, with 78-kD and 70-kD isoforms, which was initially identified in bovine tissue extracts designed to solubilize elastin-associated microfibrils. Peptide analysis has shown that MP78/70 is closely related to the human protein, βig-h3. In the present study an antibody raised to a synthetic βig-h3 peptide was shown specifically to identify MP78/70 in purified form and in bovine tissue extracts. This is consistent with MP78/70 and βig-h3 being the bovine and human forms, respectively, of the same protein. The antibody was further affinity-purified on MP78/70 bound to Sepharose and used to localize the protein in a range of bovine tissues. Immunofluorescence showed that MP78/70 was localized to collagen fibers in tissues such as developing nuchal ligament, aorta and lung, and mature cornea; to reticular fibers in fetal spleen; and to capsule and tubule basement membranes in developing kidney. No general localization to elastic fibers was observed. The staining pattern in most tissues more closely resembled that of Type VI collagen, which occurs as collagen fiber-associated microfibrils, than that of fibrillin-1, a component of elastin-associated microfibrils. However, MP78/70 appeared to be less widely distributed than Type VI collagen. Immunoelectron microscopy showed that MP78/70 was predominantly found in loose association with collagen fibers in most tissues examined and was also located on the surface of the capsule basement membrane in developing kidney. Double labeling experiments indicated that MP78/70 is co-distributed with Type VI collagen microfibrils located in these regions. In some elastic tissues significant immunolabel was detected in regions of interface between collagen fibers and fibrillin-containing microfibrils of adjacent elastic fibers, and at the outer margins of the latter structures. Overall, the evidence points to MP78/70 having a bridging function, perhaps in association with Type VI collagen microfibrils, linking or stabilizing the interaction between interstitial collagen fibrils and other matrix structures, including some basement membranes and elastin-associated microfibrils.
Oncomodulin Is Expressed Exclusively by Outer Hair Cells in the Organ of Corti
Authors: Sakaguchi Nobuki , Henzl Michael T. , Thalmann Isolde , Thalmann Ruediger , Schulte Bradley A.
Published: April 2011

Oncomodulin (OM) is a small, acidic calcium-binding protein first discovered in a rat hepatoma and later found in placental cytotrophoblasts, the pre-implantation embryo, and in a wide variety of neoplastic tissues. OM was considered to be exclusively an oncofetal protein until its recent detection in extracts of the adult guinea pig's organ of Corti. Here we report that light and electron microscopic immunostaining of gerbil, rat, and mouse inner ears with a monoclonal antibody against recombinant rat OM localizes the protein exclusively in cochlear outer hair cells (OHCs). At the ultrastructural level, high gold labeling density was seen overlying the nucleus, cytoplasm, and the cuticular plate of gerbil OHCs. Few, if any, gold particles were present over intracellular organelles and the stereocilia. Staining of a wide range of similarly processed gerbil organs failed to detect immunoreactive OM in any other adult tissues. The mammalian genome encodes one α- and one β-isoform of parvalbumin (PV). The widely distributed α PV exhibits a very high affinity for Ca2+ and is believed to serve as a Ca2+ buffer. By contrast, OM, the mammalian β PV, displays a highly attenuated affinity for Ca2+, consistent with a Ca2+-dependent regulatory function. The exclusive association of OM with cochlear OHCs in mature tissues is likely to have functional relevance. Teleological considerations favor its involvement in regulating some aspect of OHC electromotility. Although the fast electromotile response of OHCs does not require Ca2+, its gain and magnitude are modulated by efferent innervation. Therefore, OM may be involved in mediation of intracellular responses to cholinergic stimulation, which are known to be Ca2+ regulated.
Levels of MyoD Protein Expression Following Injury of mdx and Normal Limb Muscle Are Modified by Thyroid Hormone
Authors: Anderson Judy E. , McIntosh Laura M. , Moor (neé Pernitsky) Andrea N. , Yablonka–Reuveni Zipora
Published: April 2011

Thyroid hormone (T3) affects muscle development and muscle regeneration. It also interacts with the muscle regulatory gene MyoD in culture and affects myoblast proliferation. We studied the localization of MyoD protein using a well-characterized polyclonal antibody for immunohistochemistry. Relative numbers of myogenic precursor cells per field were identified by their MyoD expression during muscle regeneration in normal and mdx dystrophic mice, with particular reference to the expression in mononuclear cells and myotubes at various T3 levels. In regeneration by normal muscles, relatively few MyoD+ nuclei per field were present in mononuclear cells of euthyroid and hypothyroid mice. MyoD staining of mononuclear cell nuclei was approximately doubled in fields of regenerating muscles of normal hyperthyroid compared to euthyroid mice, and was observed in precursors that appeared to be aligned before fusion into myotubes. In mdx regenerating muscle, twofold more mononuclear cells positive for MyoD were present in all three treatment groups compared to normal muscles regenerating under the same conditions. Localization was similar to the pattern in normal euthyroid mice. However, in muscles regenerating in hyperthyroid mdx mice, both mononuclear cell nuclei and centrally located nuclei in a subpopulation (about 15%) of new myotubes formed after the crush injury were intensely stained for MyoD protein. The changes observed are consistent with reports on T3-induced alteration of muscle repair, and propose a link between MyoD regulation and the accelerated differentiation during regeneration under high T3 conditions.
Distribution of H Type 1 and of H Type 2 Antigens of ABO Blood Group in Different Cells of Human Submandibular Gland
Authors: Liu Yu-Hua , Fujitani Noboru , Koda Yoshiro , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: April 2011

We have examined the immunohistochemical distribution of H Type 1 and of H Type 2 substances of the ABO blood group system in human submandibular gland using either of the two anti-H monoclonal antibodies MAb 1E3 and MAb 3A5. MAb 3A5 was specific for H Type 2, and MAb 1E3 reacted with each of H Type 1-H Type 4 artificial antigens. We have developed a competitive inhibition method against H Type 2 and have obtained MAb 1E3, which is fairly specific for H Type 1 under certain conditions. Mucous cells from secretors were strongly stained by 1E3 and weakly by 3A5, whereas those from nonsecretors showed no reaction with 1E3 and 3A5. Serous cells from both secretors and nonsecretors were stained neither by 1E3 nor by 3A5. Striated and interlobular duct cells were strongly stained by 1E3 and by 3A5, regardless of the secretor status. These results indicated that the expressions of the H Type 1 and H Type 2 in different cell types of the submandibular gland were controlled by different genes. In addition, we have determined the acceptor specificity of two α(1,2)fucosyltransferases (H and Se enzymes) after transient expressions of the FUT1 and FUT2 in COS7 cells, and found that the H enzyme activity was similar for both Type 1 and Type 2 precursors, and that Se enzyme activity with the Type 1 precursor was higher than that with the Type 2 precursor. Expression of the H Type 1 antigen in mucous cells was found to be dependent on the Se gene, whereas expressions of the H Type 1 and H Type 2 antigens in striated and interlobular duct cells were dependent on the H gene.
Comparison of Two Methods of Staining Apoptotic Cells of Leukemia Cell Lines: Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase and DNA Polymerase I Reactions
Authors: Yamadori Ichiro , Yoshino Tadashi , Kondo Eisaku , Cao Liu , Akagi Tadaatsu , Matsuo Yoshinobu , Minowada Jun
Published: April 2011

We compared two methods to stain apoptotic cells, one using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase (TDT), the other DNA polymerase I, using leukemia cell lines treated with anti-Fas monoclonal antibody (MAb). Both TDT and polymerase I strongly reacted with fragmented nuclei of apoptotic MOLT-16 and Jurkat cells, but only polymerase I strongly reacted with nonfragmented nuclei of early apoptotic cells. Anti-Fas MAb-treated MOLT-4 cells showed morphological changes corresponding to early apoptosis and were strongly positive for polymerase I only. MOLT-16 and Jurkat cells treated with anti-Fas MAb and inhibitors of endonuclease and poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase showed the morphology of early apoptosis but were not strongly stained by TDT. Because DNA polymerase I has nick-translation activity, it is possible that DNA polymerase I reaction is positive in early apoptotic cells by detecting single-strand DNA cleavage, which occurs before extensive oligonucleosomal DNA cleavage and late morphological changes of apoptosis in leukemia cell lines. Although TDT is widely used to stain apoptotic cells, DNA polymerase I may be more applicable in special cases of apoptosis, in which cells undergo single-strand rather than double-strand DNA breaks. However, the procedure has limitations, such as the necessity to use cell smears for comparison with the TDT reaction.
Nonspecific Labeling of Myelin with Secondary Antisera and High Concentrations of Triton X-100
Authors: Weruaga Eduardo , Alonso José R. , Porteros Ángel , Crespo Carlos , Arévalo Rosario , Briñón Jesús G. , Velasco Almudena , Aijón José
Published: April 2011

Triton X-100 is used in immunohistochemistry to make tissue permeable, to present certain antigens to antisera, and to prevent certain nonspecific interactions. This detergent is routinely dissolved in buffers at concentrations of 0.01–0.2%. Using high concentrations of Triton X-100 (0.2–2%) and anti-immunoglobulins G (anti-IgGs), labeling of myelin and microglia was detected in fixed brain tissue by indirect fluorescence and avidin-biotin-immunoperoxidase techniques. Differences were found between the species studied (mouse and rat), the type of anti-IgG (anti-mouse, anti-rabbit, anti-sheep, anti-rat, or anti-guinea pig), the detergent concentration, and whether Triton X-100 was included in the incubation media or applied as a pretreatment. Mouse brain displayed strong myelin labeling with all anti-IgGs but rat brain only with anti-rabbit or anti-sheep IgGs. Staining of ramified microglia occurred only in mouse tissue when anti-mouse IgG was used. Nonspecific staining of myelin was also intense in paraffin-embedded tissue and in human brain frozen sections. These results are significant for the prevention of undesirable staining in routine immunolabeling and they also provide a comparatively inexpensive, easy to perform strong labeling of myelin. In addition, the double marker signal (peroxidase and fluorescence) is useful for double labeling studies.
Basolateral Distribution of Caveolin-1 in the Kidney: Absence from H+-ATPase-coated Endocytic Vesicles in Intercalated Cells
Authors: Breton Sylvie , Lisanti Michael P. , Tyszkowski Robert , McLaughlin Margaret , Brown Dennis
Published: April 2011

In kidney epithelial cells, a variety of physiological processes are dependent on the active recycling of membrane proteins between intracellular vesicles and the cell surface. Although clathrin-mediated endocytosis occurs in several renal cell types, endocytosis can also occur by non-clathrin-coated vesicles, including pinocytotic structures known as caveolae that contain a novel coat protein, caveolin. Exo- and endocytosis of a vacuolar H+-ATPase in intercalated cells also occurs via specialized “coated” vesicles that do not contain clathrin. The aim of this study was to localize caveolin in the kidney and, in addition, to determine whether it could be a component of the H+-ATPase recycling process. Using an antibody against the α- and β-isoforms of caveolin-1, our immunocytochemical data show a marked heterogeneity in the cellular expression of this isoform of caveolin in kidney. In contrast, caveolin-3 was not detectable in renal epithelial cells. Caveolin-1 was abundant in endothelial cells and smooth muscle cells and was present in the parietal cells of Bowman's capsule. Distal tubule cells, connecting tubule cells, and collecting duct principal cells exhibited marked punctate basolateral staining, corresponding to the presence of caveolae detected by electron microscopy, whereas all intercalated cells were negative in both cortex and medulla. These data indicate that although caveolin-1 may participate in basolateral events in some kidney epithelial cell types, it does not appear to be involved in the regulated recycling of H+-ATPase in intercalated cells. Therefore, these cells recycle H+-ATPase by a mechanism that involves neither clathrin nor caveolin-1.
Production of Membrane-type Matrix Metalloproteinase-1 (MT-MMP-1) in Early Human Placenta: A Possible Role in Placental Implantation?
Authors: Hurskainen Tiina , Seiki Motoharu , Apte Suneel S. , Syrjäkallio–Ylitalo Marja , Sorsa Timo , Oikarinen Aarne , Autio–Harmainen Helena
Published: April 2011

The extracellular matrix proteolytic machinery is known to play a major role in trophoblast invasion, a process that shares similar features with the pathology of tumor invasion. In this study we investigated the expression of the recently described membrane-type matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MT-MMP-1; MMP-14) in early human placenta and decidual membrane to determine whether it might play a role in invasion. With in situ hybridization, the cytotrophoblasts of trophoblastic columns and the infiltrating intermediate trophoblasts in the decidual membrane were found to be the main producers of MT-MMP-1 mRNA. Gene expression was also seen in the villous double-layered trophoblastic epithelium and in the decidual cells of the decidual membrane. In endothelial and fibroblastic cells, however, the hybridization signal was either very weak or nonexistent. Immunohistochemical analysis and immunoelectron microscopy correlated well with the in situ hybridization findings. The most significant exception to this consisted of pericytes of spiral arteries, which appeared to lack MT-MMP-1 mRNA but showed intensive intracytoplasmic staining for the antigen. Our results show that MT-MMP-1 mRNA production is highly characteristic of intermediate trophoblasts, and MT-MMP-1 may have general importance in the tissue organization of early human placenta. We propose that MT-MMP-1 could be one of the key enzymes in the process of trophoblast invasion, acting alone or as a cell-surface activator of other proteinases.
Intestinal Carbamoyl Phosphate Synthase I in Human and Rat: Expression During Development Shows Species Differences and Mosaic Expression in Duodenum of Both Species
Authors: Van Beers Erik H. , Rings Edmond H.H.M. , Posthuma George , Dingemanse Maria A. , Taminiau Jan A.M.J. , Heymans Hugo S.A. , Einerhand Alexandra W.C. , Büller Hans A. , Dekker Jan
Published: April 2011

The clinical importance of carbamoyl phosphate synthase I (CPSI) relates to its capacity to metabolize ammonia, because CPSI deficiencies cause lethal serum ammonia levels. Although some metabolic parameters concerning liver and intestinal CPSI have been reported, the extent to which enterocytes contribute to ammonia conversion remains unclear without a detailed description of its developmental and spatial expression patterns. Therefore, we determined the patterns of enterocytic CPSI mRNA and protein expression in human and rat intestine during embryonic and postnatal development, using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. CPSI protein appeared during human embryogenesis in liver at 31–35 e.d. (embryonic days) before intestine (59 e.d.), whereas in rat CPSI detection in intestine (at 16 e.d.) preceded liver (20 e.d.). During all stages of development there was a good correlation between the expression of CPSI protein and mRNA in the intestinal epithelium. Strikingly, duodenal enterocytes in both species exhibited mosaic CPSI protein expression despite uniform CPSI mRNA expression in the epithelium and the presence of functional mitochondria in all epithelial cells. Unlike rat, CPSI in human embryos was expressed in liver before intestine. Although CPSI was primarily regulated at the transcriptional level, CPSI protein appeared mosaic in the duodenum of both species, possibly due to post-transcriptional regulation.
A Novel Immunohistochemical Semiquantitative Technique for Endothelial Constitutive Nitric Oxide Synthase Immunoreactivity in Rat Coronary Artery
Authors: Zulli Anthony , Liu James J.
Published: April 2011

It has been difficult to quantify protein production in small pathological specimens by conventional techniques. We describe a new method for semiquantification of immunohistochemical staining, which involves application of the enzyme-labeled avidin (LAB) technique, coupled with an ultra-sensitive and fast chemiluminescent substrate for alkaline phosphatase. The entire procedure can be completed in less than 3 hr. The final step involves X-ray film exposure for 30 min, and the optical density of the subsequent images is examined with a microcomputer imaging device. The optical densities are translated into relative protein concentrations by a reference standard curve, obtained via an immunoblot. To establish a model for semiquantification of endothelial constitutive nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) protein, we compared the coronary arteries of WKY rats fed a normal chow diet to the coronary arteries of WKY rats fed a cholesterol diet. Using this technique, we have found a relative 130-fold decrease in eNOS in the cholesterol-fed group compared to the normal chow-fed group.
A Rapid Method for Combined Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopic and Electron Microscopic Visualization of Biocytin or Neurobiotin-labeled Neurons
Authors: Sun Xue J. , Tolbert Leslie P. , Hildebrand John G. , Meinertzhagen Ian A.
Published: April 2011

Intracellular recording and dye filling are widely used to correlate the morphology of a neuron with its physiology. With laser scanning confocal microscopy, the complex shapes of labeled neurons in three dimensions can be reconstructed rapidly, but this requires fluorescent dyes. These dyes are neither permanent nor electron dense and therefore do not allow investigation by electron microscopy. Here we report a technique that quickly and easily converts a fluorescent label into a more stable and electron-dense stain. With this technique, a neuron is filled with Neurobiotin or biocytin, reacted with fluorophore-conjugated avidin, and imaged by confocal microscopy. To permit long-term storage or EM study, the fluorescent label is then converted to a stable electron-dense material by a single-step conversion using a commercially available ABC kit. We find that the method, which apparently relies on recognition of avidin's excess biotin binding sites by the biotin–peroxidase conjugate, is both faster and less labor intensive than photo-oxidation procedures in common use. The technique is readily adaptable to immunocytochemistry with biotinylated probes, as we demonstrate using anti-serotonin as an example.
The Gene Defective in Anhidrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia Is Expressed in the Developing Epithelium, Neuroectoderm, Thymus, and Bone
Authors: Montonen Outi , Ezer Sini , Saarialho-Kere Ulpu K. , Herva Riitta , Karjalainen-Lindsberg Marja-Liisa , Kaitila Ilkka , Schlessinger David , Srivastava Anand K. , Thesleff Irma , Kere Juha
Published: April 2011

Anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (EDA) is characterized by defects in the development of teeth, hair, and sweat glands. To study the expression of the human gene defective in EDA in human fetal development (Weeks 6–23 of gestational age) and in adult tissues, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry were used. First signs of expression were detected at Week 8 in epidermis and in neuroectodermal cells. Starting at Week 12, osteoblasts and thymus were positive for EDA mRNA. Hair follicles expressed EDA mRNA from 18 weeks. The presence of the EDA protein coincided with mRNA expression in the tissues examined. The expression pattern of the EDA gene is consistent with typical involvement of the skin in the syndrome. However, the expression is not limited to the ectodermal tissues and many sites of expression are not obviously reflected in the clinical features of the syndrome.
Binding of Injected Laminin to Developing Kidney Glomerular Mesangial Matrices and Basement Membranes In Vivo
Authors: Wang Ruixue , Moorer-Hickman Danika , John Patricia L. St. , Abrahamson Dale R.
Published: April 2011

During glomerular development, subendothelial and -epithelial basement membrane layers fuse to produce the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) shared by endothelial cells and epithelial podocytes. As glomeruli mature, additional basement membrane derived from podocytes is spliced into the fused GBM and loose mesangial matrices condense. The mechanisms for GBM fusion, splicing, and mesangial matrix condensation are not known but might involve intermolecular bond formation between matrix molecules. To test for laminin binding sites, we intravenously injected mouse laminin containing α1-, β1-, and γ1-chains into 2-day-old rats. Kidneys were immunolabeled for fluorescence and electron microscopy with domain-specific rat anti-mouse laminin monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), which recognized only mouse and not endogenous rat laminin. Intense labeling for injected laminin was found in mesangial matrices and weaker labeling was seen in GBMs of maturing glomeruli. These patterns persisted for at least 2 weeks after injection. In control newborns receiving sheep IgG, no binding of injected protein was observed and laminin did not bind adult rat glomeruli. To assess which molecular domains might mediate binding to immature glomeruli, three proteolytic laminin fragments were affinity-isolated by MAbs and injected into newborns. These failed to bind glomeruli, presumably owing to enzymatic digestion of binding domains. Alternatively, stable incorporation may require multivalent laminin binding. We conclude that laminin binding sites are transiently present in developing glomeruli and may be functionally important for GBM assembly and mesangial matrix condensation.
Expression of Neuropsin mRNA in the Mouse Embryo and the Pregnant Uterus
Authors: Chen Zu-Lin , Momota Yoshiharu , Kato Keiko , Taniguchi Manabu , Inoue Naoko , Shiosaka Sadao , Yoshida Shigetaka
Published: April 2011

Neuropsin is a novel serine protease whose mRNA is expressed in the mouse central nervous system. We examined the expression of neuropsin mRNA during embryonic development using Northern and in situ hybridization in non-neural tissues. The pregnant uterus showed strong expression of neuropsin mRNA, whereas the nonpregnant uterus did not express this mRNA. Expression was first detected in the primary decidual zone at 5.5 days post coitum and was maximized at 10 days post coitum, decreasing remarkably thereafter. During mouse organogenesis, neuropsin expression was observed in the developing heart, lung, thymus, pituitary, choroid plexus, and epithelial linings of the skin, oral cavity, tongue, esophagus, and forestomach. In adult mouse organs, neuropsin mRNA was expressed in epithelial tissues covered by keratinocytes with moderate density, whereas low expression was observed in lung, thymus, and spleen. Neuropsin mRNA expression in developing organs and adult keratinocytes suggests that neuropsin is associated with extracellular matrix modifications and cell migrations.
Tetanus Toxin-enhanced GABA Immunoreactivity in Living Neurons
Authors: Mitchell John
Published: April 2011

Analysis of the connectivity between different neuronal cell types is dependent on an appreciation of their dendritic and axonal arborizations. A detailed study of the dendrites and axons of GABAergic neurons has been thwarted by the lack of a suitable technique for enhancing GABA immunoreactivity. This article describes a procedure using tetanus toxin which, when applied to organotypic hippocampal cultures, considerably enhances the immunoreactivity in the dendrites and axons of the GABA- and somatostatin-containing neurons and clearly demonstrates the co-localization of GABA and somatostatin immunoreactivities in the same neuron. Tetanus toxin was applied to the culture medium on Day 14 for a 24-hr period and the cultures were fixed at the end of Day 18. Tetanus toxin-treated cultures ( n = 30) or untreated cultures ( n = 40) were incubated for either GABA or somatostatin immunoreactivity. Tetanus toxin-treated cultures used for co-localization studies ( n = 20) were incubated for both GABA and somatostatin immunoreactivity.
Laminin-5 Expression Is Independent of the Injury and the Microenvironment During Reepithelialization of Wounds
Authors: Kainulainen Tiina , Häkkinen Lari , Hamidi Sara , Larjava Kirsi , Kallioinen Matti , Peltonen Juha , Salo Tuula , Larjava Hannu , Oikarinen Aarne
Published: April 2011

We examined the expression of laminin-5 and its integrin receptors during reepithelialization of human wounds. We used suction blisters of skin as a model of keratinocyte migration on a basement membrane matrix and mucosal full-thickness wounds as a model in which keratinocytes migrate in a provisional matrix. An animal model, in which human epidermal keratinocytes were injected into the back of athymic mice, was used to follow the deposition of the basement membrane components. In 4-day-old blisters, about 20–50 cells at the leading edge of the migrating tongue showed cytoplasmic laminin-5 immunostaining. Laminin-5 mRNA was detected in 15–30 cells at the leading edge of the migrating epidermis. α3β1 and α6β4 integrins were found in membrane projections of the migrating basal cells and also in suprabasal cell layers, suggesting their combined role in binding laminin-5. In mucosal wounds, laminin-5 was the only basement membrane zone component that was deposited between the clot and the migrating keratinocytes. In the animal model, linear deposition of laminin-5 and α6β4 integrin was already seen on Day 2, whereas the other basement membrane zone components were not yet organized. The results suggest that, regardless of the injury and the microenvironment, laminin-5 plays an essential role in the interaction between wound keratinocytes and the surrounding matrix.