bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CHARACTERIZATION OF RAT LIVER SUBCELLULAR MEMBRANES
Authors: DeHeer David H. , Olson Merle S. , Pinckard R. Neal
Published: May 2004

The induction of acute hepatocellular necrosis in rats resulted in the production of complement fixing, IgM autoantibodies directed toward inner and outer mitochondrial membranes, microsomal membrane, lysosomal membrane, nuclear membrane, cytosol, but not to plasma membrane. Utilizing selective absorption procedures it was demonstrated that each subcellular membrane fraction possessed unique autoantigenic activity with little or no cross-reactivity between the various membrane fractions. It is proposed that the development of membrane-specific autoantibodies may provide an immunological marker useful in the differential characterization of various subcellular membranes.
THE EFFECTS OF THROMBIN ON PHYTOHEMAGGLUTININ RECEPTOR SITES IN HUMAN PLATELETS
Authors: Feagler John R. , Tillack Thomas W. , Chaplin David D. , Majerus Philip W.
Published: May 2004

We have previously demonstrated that lentil phytohemagglutinin (lentil-PHA) binds to human platelet membranes without causing either aggregation or the release reaction. When platelets are treated with thrombin, there is an increase in lentil-PHA binding suggesting the appearance of new receptor sites on the cell surface. We prepared a lentil-PHA-ferritin conjugate using affinity chromatography which was used to saturate cell surface receptor sites. Studies using this conjugate suggest that thrombin causes a complex change in the platelet surface involving a decrease in the number of lentil-PHA receptor sites on the external platelet surface with a marked increase in sites within the center of the canalicular system. These increased sites may result from fusion of granule membranes with the canalicular membranes during the secretion process. There is no obvious relationship between lentil-PHA receptor sites and intramembranous particles.
ON THE SPATIAL ARRANGEMENT OF PROTEINS IN MICROSOMAL MEMBRANES FROM RAT LIVER
Authors: Kreibich Gert , Hubbard Ann L. , Sabatini David D.
Published: May 2004

Rat liver rough microsomes were labeled enzymatically with 125I using lactoperoxidase and glucose oxidase. In intact microsomes only proteins exposed on the outside face of the microsomal membrane were iodinated. Low concentrations of detergent (0.049% deoxycholate) were used to allow entrance of the iodination system into the vesicles without disassembling the membranes. This led to iodination of the soluble content proteins and to an increased labeling of the membrane proteins.

The distribution of radioactivity in microsomal proteins was analyzed after separation by sodium dodecyl sulfate acrylamide gel electrophoresis. Most membrane proteins were labeled when intact microsomes were iodinated. No major membrane proteins were exclusively labeled in the presence of low detergent concentrations or after complete membrane disassembly. Therefore it is unlikely that there are major membrane proteins, other than glycoproteins, present only on the inner membrane face or completely embedded within the microsomal membrane.

Microsomal proteins were also labeled by incubating rough microsomes with [3H]-NaBH4 after reaction with pyridoxal phosphate. Microsomal membranes were permeable to these small molecular weight reagents as shown by the fact that proteins in the vesicular cavity as well as membrane proteins were labeled with this system.
A STUDY ON THE MECHANISM OF INTERCELLULAR ADHESION
Authors: Deman Joris J. , Bruyneel Erik A. , Mareel Marc M.
Published: May 2004

Aggregation of suspended HeLa cells is increased on removal of cell surface sialic acid. Calcium ions promote aggregation whereas magnesium ions have no effect. The calcium effect is abolished by previous treatment of the cells with neuraminidase.

Trypsinization of the HeLa cells followed by thorough washing diminishes the rate of mutual cell aggregation. Subsequent incubation with neuraminidase restores the aggregation rate to the original value before trypsin treatment. Cells which had acquired a greater tendency for aggregation after removal of peripheral sialic acid lose this property when subsequently treated with trypsin. Calcium ions have no aggregative effect on trypsinized cells.

In contrast to HeLa cells, aggregation of human erythrocytes was not increased after treatment with neuraminidase or on addition of calcium.

The results with HeLa cells are interpreted as follows: (a) Trypsin-releasable material confers adhesiveness upon the cells. (b) The adhesive property of this material is counteracted by the presence of cell surface sialic acids. (c) Calcium ions exert their effect by attenuating the adverse effect of sialic acid.
A QUANTITATIVE STUDY OF SYNAPSES ON MOTOR NEURON DENDRITIC GROWTH CONES IN DEVELOPING MOUSE SPINAL CORD
Authors: Vaughn James E. , Henrikson Charles K. , Grieshaber Judith A.
Published: May 2004

The proportion of synaptic contacts occurring on dendrites as well as on dendritic growth cones and filopodia was determined from electron micrographs of developing mouse (C57BL/6J) spinal cord. Comparable areas of the marginal zone adjacent to the lateral motor nucleus were sampled from specimens on the 13th–16th days of embryonic development (E13–E16). At the beginning of this period, synapses upon growth cones and filopodia comprise about 80% of the observed synaptic junctions, but this proportion decreases with developmental time so that in E16 specimens growth cone synapses account for slightly less than 30% of the synaptic population. Conversely, at E13, synapses upon dendrites comprise less than 20% of the total number of synapses, but increase with developmental time so that they account for about 65% of the synaptic population of E16 specimens.

From these data, we suggest the following temporal sequence for the formation of synaptic junctions on motor neuron dendrites growing into the marginal zone. New synapses are initially made upon the filopodia of dendritic growth cones. A synaptically contacted filopodium expands to become a growth cone while the original growth cone begins to differentiate into a dendrite. This process is repeated as the dendrite grows farther into the marginal zone so that synapses originally made with filopodia come to be located upon dendrites. This speculation is briefly discussed in relation to the work and ideas of others concerning synaptogenesis and dendritic development.
MITOCHONDRIAL PROTEIN SYNTHESIS IN HELA CELLS
Authors: Galper Jonas B.
Published: May 2004

HeLa cell mitochondrial proteins have been shown to be the products of two separate protein-synthesizing systems; one, the general cellular mechanism, sensitive to inhibition by cycloheximide, the other, a specific mitochondrial system subject to inhibition by low concentrations of chloramphenicol (Galper, J. B., and J. E. Darnell. 1971. J. Mol. Biol 57:363). Preliminary data have suggested that a mitochondrial N-formyl-methionyl-tRNA (f-Met-tRNA) might be the initiator tRNA in the latter (Galper, J. B., and J. E. Darnell. 1969. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 34:205; 1971. J. Mol. Biol. 57:363).

It is demonstrated here that the synthesis of these endogenous mitochondrial proteins is also subject to inhibition by ethidium bromide and decays with a half-life of 1½–2 h in cultures incubated with low concentrations of this dye. The role of formylated f-Met-tRNA as the initiator tRNA in the synthesis of mitochondrial proteins is supported by data from several experiments. The rates of ethidium bromide inhibition of both the charging of f-Met-tRNA and of the synthesis of mitochondrial proteins are strikingly similar. Inhibition by aminopterin of the formylation of f-Met-tRNA greatly depresses the rate of mitochondrial-specific protein synthesis. In the absence of the synthesis of these proteins, respiration, the levels of cytochromes a–a3 and b, and the number of mitochondrial cristae are decreased. The implications of these findings as they relate to mitochondrial biogenesis are discussed.
DYNAMICS OF CYTOPLASMIC MEMBRANES IN GUINEA PIG PANCREATIC ACINAR CELLS
Authors: Meldolesi J.
Published: May 2004

The rate of synthesis and the turnover of cytoplasmic membrane proteins were determined in the acinar cells of guinea pig pancreas with the aim of investigating the mechanisms by which the intracellular transport of secretion products occurs. These cells are highly specialized toward protein secretion.

By means of in vitro pulse-chase experiments and in vivo double-labeling experiments, using radioactive L-leucine as the tracer, it was found that the turnover of secretory proteins is much faster than that of all membranes involved in their transport (rough and smooth microsome and zymogen granule membranes). Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide disk gel electrophoresis of membrane proteins revealed that in each of these membranes there is a marked heterogeneity of turnover; generally the high molecular weight polypeptides have a shorter half-life than the low molecular weight polypeptides.

These data indicate that the membranes participating in the intracellular transport of secretory proteins are not synthesized concomitantly with the latter. Rather, they are probably reutilized in several successive secretory cycles.

The possible relevance of these findings to other secretory systems is discussed.
MIGRATORY CELL LOCOMOTION VERSUS NERVE AXON ELONGATION
Authors: Letourneau Paul C. , Wessells Norman K.
Published: May 2004

The effects of lanthanum ions (La+++) on the locomotion and adhesion of g lial cells and elongating nerve axons are reported. La+++ increases adhesion of both glia and of nerve growth cones to a plastic substratum. La+++ also markedly reduces glia locomotion, but it does not inhibit nerve elongation. Electron-opaque deposits are seen on the cell surface and within cytoplasmic vesicles of glia and nerves cultured in a La+++-containing medium. Possible modes of action for La+++ are discussed, particularly the possibilities that Ca++ fluxes or Ca++ involvement in adhesion are altered by La+++. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that cell migration and nerve axon elongation differ in mechanism, with respect to both adhesive interactions and the activity of microfilament systems.
ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF LUMINAL MEMBRANES FROM URINARY BLADDER
Authors: Vergara J. , Zambrano F. , Robertson J. D. , Elrod H.
Published: May 2004

A method is reported for the isolation of a highly purified fraction of urinary bladder membranes containing hexagonal plaques. The method uses zonal centrifugation as the final step of fractionation.

The purified fraction was characterized by its electron microscopic morphology, by its enzymatic profile, by quantitative and qualitative analysis of lipids and by the protein pattern obtained by electrophoresis in polyacrylamide sodium dodecyl sulfate gels. The fraction contains 65% lipids and 35% proteins. The major protein component has a molecular weight of 27,000 daltons.

Phospholipids are more than the 54% of the total lipid weight. Phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylinositol are the major phospholipids with 50%, 30%, and 7% of the total lipid phosphorus, respectively.

The glycolipid fraction is 10% of the total lipid weight and is formed by only two components, both sulfatides. Total cholesterol makes up 36% of the total neutral lipid fraction of which cholesterol esters constitute 6%. Glycoproteins are also found to be present in the fraction.
STEREOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE GUINEA PIG PANCREAS
Authors: Bolender Robert P.
Published: May 2004

A stereological model which provides detailed quantitative information on the structure of the fasted, nonstimulated gland has been developed for the guinea pig pancreas. The model consists of morphologically defined space and membrane compartments which were used to describe the general composition of the tissue and the specific components of exocrine cells. The results are presented, where appropriate, relative to a cubic centimeter of pancreas, a cubic centimeter of exocrine cell cytoplasm, and to the volume of an average exocrine cell. The exocrine cells, accounting for 82% of the pancreas volume, consisted of 54% cytoplasmic matrix, 22% rough-surfaced endoplasmic reticulum (RER), 8.3% nuclei, 8.1% mitochondria, 6.4% zymogen granules, and 0.7% condensing vacuoles. Their total membrane surface area was distributed as follows: 60% RER, 21% mitochondria, 9.9% Golgi apparatus, 4.8% plasma membranes, 2.6% zymogen granules, 1.8% plasma membrane vesicles, and 0.4% condensing vacuoles. The application of this model to the study of membrane movements associated with the secretory process is discussed within the framework of an analytical approach.
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE FREQUENCY OF MESOSOMES OBSERVED IN FIXED AND UNFIXED CELLS OF STREPTOCOCCUS FAECALIS
Authors: Higgins Michael L. , Daneo-Moore Lolita
Published: May 2004

Mesosomes of Streptococcus faecalis (American Type Culture Collection 9790) were seen about 92% less frequently in freeze fractures of unfixed cells than in freeze fractures and sections of fixed cells. This difference in frequency was not related to any period of unbalanced macromolecular synthesis induced by chemical fixation. All measured synthetic processes (DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis, and glycerol incorporation) were halted with either osmium tetroxide (OS) or glutaraldehyde fixation. That fewer mesosomes were seen in freeze fractures of unfixed cells was probably due to the difficulty of observing cross-fractured mesosomes in this organism in the unfixed state. Unfortunately, mesosomes probably preferentially cross fracture in the unfixed state and therefore are usually only observed, infrequently, in those cases where the freeze fracture follows the surface layer of a mesosomal membrane.

However, the addition of glycerol to unfixed cells, especially in the chilled state, greatly increased the frequency of observation of cytoplasmic mesosomes in freeze fractures. It is thought that glycerol, like chemical fixation, increases the number of surface-fractured mesosomes, which in turn increases the frequency of mesosome observation.

It was also observed that cellular autolysis occurring during OS fixation seemingly reduced the number of mesosomes observed in thin sections and freeze fractures of OS-fixed cells.
BIOCHEMICAL AND ULTRASTRUCTURAL ASPECTS OF CA2+ TRANSPORT BY MITOCHONDRIA OF THE HEPATOPANCREAS OF THE BLUE CRAB CALLINECTES SAPIDUS
Authors: Chen Chung-Ho , Greenawalt John W. , Lehninger Albert L.
Published: May 2004

Mitochondria isolated from the hepatopancreas of the blue crab Callinectes sapidus show up to 12-fold stimulation of respiration on addition of Ca2+, which is accompanied by Ca2+ accumulation (Ca2+:site = 1.9) and H+ ejection (H+:Ca2+ = 0.85). Sr2+ and Mn2+ are also accumulated; Mg2+ is not. A strongly hypertonic medium (383 mosM), Mg2+, and phosphate are required for maximal Ca2+ uptake. Ca2+ uptake takes precedence over oxidative phosphorylation of ADP for respiratory energy. Once Ca2+ is accumulated by the crab mitochondria, it is stable and only very slowly released, even by uncoupling agents. ATP hydrolysis also supports Ca2+ uptake. Respiration-inhibited crab hepatopancreas mitochondria show both high-affinity and low-affinity Ca2+-binding sites, which are inactive in the presence of uncoupling agents.

Crab hepatopancreas mitochondria have an enormous capacity for accumulation of Ca2+, up to 5,500 ng-atoms Ca2+ per mg protein, with an equivalent amount of phosphate. Freshly isolated mitochondria contain very large amounts of Ca2+, Mg2+, phosphate, K+, and Na+; their high Ca2+ content is a reflection of the vary large amount of extra-mitochondrial Ca2+ in the whole tissue.

Electron microscopy of crab mitochondria loaded with Ca2+ and phosphate showed large electron-dense deposits, presumably of precipitated calcium phosphate. They consisted of bundles of needle-like crystals, whereas Ca2+-loaded rat liver mitochondria show only amorphous deposits of calcium phosphate under similar conditions. The very pronounced capacity of crab hepatopancreas mitochondria for transport of Ca2+ appears to be adapted to a role in the storage and release of Ca2+ during the molting cycle of this crustacean.
RAPID CHANGES IN NUCLEOSIDE TRANSPORT INDUCED BY GROWTH INHIBITORS
Authors: Lingwood Clifford A. , Thomas D. Brian
Published: May 2004

Aqueous extracts of murine embryonic or uterine tissue, or [6N]O2'-dibutyryl 3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (dbc-AMP) which were cytostatic for the murine mastocytoma P815Y in vitro also induced rapid changes in the incorporation of exogenous nucleosides into acid-insoluble material. However, these alterations were not a consequence of growth arrest. Different dose-response curves were obtained for cytostasis and inhibition of [3H]-nucleoside incorporation, and changes in [3H]thymidine uptake were detected within 15 min of treatment with the inhibitors. Also, there were differential effects of each inhibitor on the incorporation of 3H-labeled thymidine, uridine, adenosine, or choline into acid-insoluble material.
RESOLUTION OF THREE DISTINCT POPULATIONS OF NERVE ENDINGS FROM RAT BRAIN HOMOGENATES BY ZONAL ISOPYCNIC CENTRIFUGATION
Authors: Bretz Ursula , Baggiolini Marco , Hauser Rolf , Hodel Christian
Published: May 2004

Conditions have been established for the fractionation of subcellular components of rat forebrain homogenates by zonal isopycnic equilibration in continuous sucrose density gradients using a B-XIV rotor. The fractions were analyzed biochemically and by ultra-structural morphometry. Starting from postnuclear supernates of forebrain homogenates, it has been possible to resolve three distinct populations of nerve endings from one another, as well as from free mitochondria and myelin fragments. The three types of nerve endings differ in their apparent specific gravity, their biochemical properties, and their ability selectively to accumulate exogenous transmitter substances in vitro. These three particle populations are likely to represent, in order of increasing modal equilibrium density, (a) cholinergic nerve endings, characterized by their high content of acetylcholine, (b) γ-amino butyric acid (GABA)-containing nerve endings with high glutamate decarboxylase activity and the ability to accumulate exogenous GABA, (c) adrenergic nerve endings that accumulate exogenous dopamine and noradrenaline and exhibit high monoamine oxidase activity.
FREEZE FRACTURE OF SKELETAL MUSCLE FROM THE TARANTULA SPIDER
Authors: Franzini-Armstrong Clara
Published: May 2004

The structure of the membranes of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), tubular (T) system, and sarcolemma has been studied by freeze fracture in leg muscles of the Tarantula spider. Two regions of the sarcoplasmic reticulum can be differentiated by the distribution of particles on the fracture faces: a junctional SR, at the dyads, and a longitudinal SR, elsewhere. The dyads are asymmetric junctions, the disposition of particles in the apposed membranes of SR and T tubules being different from one another and from the regular arrangement of feet in the junctional gap. It is concluded that no channels can be visualized to directly connect SR- and T-system lumina.
MICROTUBULE BIOGENESIS AND CELL SHAPE IN OCHROMONAS
Authors: Brown David L. , Bouck G. Benjamin
Published: May 2004

The role of microtubules and microtubule nucleating sites in the unicell, Ochromonas has been examined through the use of two mitotic inhibitors, isopropyl N-phenylcarbamate (IPC) and isopropyl N-3-chlorophenyl carbamate (CIPC). Although IPC and CIPC have little or no effect on intact microtubules, the assembly of three separate sets of microtubules in Ochromonas has been found to be differentially affected by IPC and CIPC. The assembly of flagellar microtubules after mechanical deflagellation is partially inhibited; the reassembly of rhizoplast microtubules after pressure depolymerization is totally inhibited (however, macrotubules may form at the sites of microtubule initiation or elsewhere); and, the reassembly of the beak set of microtubules after pressure depolymerization may be unaffected although similar concentrations of IPC and CICP completely inhibit microtubule regeneration on the rhizoplast. These effects on microtubule assembly, either inhibitory or macrotubule inducing, are fully reversible. The kinetics of inhibition and reversal are found to be generally similar for both flagellar and cell shape regeneration. Incorporation data suggest that neither IPC nor CIPC has significant effects on protein synthesis in short term experiments. Conversely, inhibiting protein synthesis with cycloheximide has little effect on microtubule regeneration when IPC or CIPC is removed. Although the exact target for IPC and CIPC action remains uncertain, the available evidence suggests that the microtubule protein pool or the microtubule nucleating sites are specifically and reversibly affected. Comparative experiments using the mitotic inhibitor colchicine indicate some similarities and differences in its mode of action with respect to that of IPC and CIPC on assembly and disassembly of microtubules in these cells.
LYSOSOMAL PACKAGING IN DIFFERENTIATING AND DEGENERATING ANURAN LATERAL MOTOR COLUMN NEURONS
Authors: Decker Robert S.
Published: May 2004

The role of the Golgi apparatus and the Golgi-endoplasmic reticulum-lysosome complex (GERL) in the genesis of lysosomes was examined in differentiating and degenerating motor neurons of anuran larvae. Acid phosphatase, aryl sulfatase, and thiolacetic acid esterase were utilized as marker enzymes for the lysosomal system, while nucleoside diphosphatase and thiamine pyrophosphatase labeled the inner saccule(s) of the Golgi apparatus. Reduced osmium tetroxide was routinely deposited in the outer Golgi saccule regardless of the state of neuronal maturation. In all young neurons, the disposition of acid hydrolase reaction product paralleled the formation of GERL, with no lytic activity in the Golgi apparatus per se. Hypertrophy of the Golgi apparatus and GERL was observed in the early phases of degeneration, and both organelles apparently exhibit extensive hydrolytic activity. Dense bodies, autophagic vacuoles, and primary lysosomes were found arising from GERL, while the Golgi apparatus may produce primary lysosomal granules during regression. On the other hand, in differentiating neurons, hydrolytic activity was restricted to GERL and an occasional dense body and autophagic vacuole. These studies illustrate a parallelism between the development of GERL and genesis of primary and secondary lysosomes during neuronal cytodifferentiation, and implicate GERL and possibly the Golgi apparatus in lysosomal packaging in degenerating neurons.
ELECTRON MICROSCOPY AND ELECTRON PROBE ANALYSIS OF MITOCHONDRIAL CATION ACCUMULATION IN SMOOTH MUSCLE
Authors: Somlyo A. P. , Somlyo A. V. , Devine C. E. , Peters P. D. , Hall T. A.
Published: May 2004

The contractile responses to barium and the ultrastructure and ionic composition of mitochondria were studied in vascular smooth muscle. In normal rabbit portal anterior mesenteric vein (PAMV) and main pulmonary artery (MPA) smooth muscle mitochondria were frequently associated with the surface vesicles. The average distance between the outer mitochondrial and inner surface vesicle membrane was 4–5 nm. Ba contractures of MPA were tonic and of PAMV were phasic. Incubation of MPA and PAMV with Ba resulted in the accumulation of mitochondrial granules, followed in the MPA by massive mitochondrial swelling. Oligomycin and anoxia inhibited the appearance of mitochondrial electron-opaque granules and prevented the Ba-induced mitochondrial swelling in the MPA. Electron probe analysis of mitochondria in PAMV incubated with Ba and containing granules showed characteristic Ba signals over the mitochondria. Electron probe X-ray microanalysis also showed a highly significant (P < 0.001) correlation of P with mitochondrial Ba, in an estimated elemental ratio of approximately 3 Ba/4 P. Mitochondrial granules were still prominent after block staining of the osmium-fixed, Ba-loaded PAMV, but electron probe microanalysis showed no Ba, but only U, emissions. Tissues incubated with strontium had electron-opaque mitochondrial granules and deposits in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. X-ray microanalysis of mitochondria containing granules showed the presence of characteristic Sr and Ca emissions. The presence of Sr was similarly verified in the sarcoplasmic reticulum. These findings indicate the energy dependent uptake of divalent cations, in association with phosphate, by mitochondria in vascular smooth muscle in situ and the possibility that mitochondria may contribute to the regulation of intracellular divalent cation levels in smooth muscle.
ISOPYCNIC CENTRIFUGATION OF CHROMATIN IN RENOGRAFIN SOLUTIONS
Authors: Chan R. T. L. , Scheffler I. E.
Published: May 2004

Solutions of Renografin (30–60%) can be centrifuged to form density gradients in the range from 1.0 g/cm3 to 1.4 g/cm3 or, alternatively, preformed gradients can be made which under appropriate conditions of centrifugation have an indefinite stability. Such solutions have a low viscosity and a relatively low ionic strength. The density of DNA in such solutions is surprisingly low (∼1.14 g/cm3). Crude chromatin can be sedimented to an equilibrium position in such gradients, corresponding to a density of 1.24 g/cm3, or slightly lower, depending on the method of preparation. The complex is shown to contain DNA, RNA, protein, and possibly some lipoprotein. Most of the RNA can be removed with RNase without any significant effect on the density of the chromatin.
PROPHASING OF INTERPHASE NUCLEI AND INDUCTION OF NUCLEAR ENVELOPES AROUND METAPHASE CHROMOSOMES IN HELA AND CHINESE HAMSTER HOMO- AND HETEROKARYONS
Authors: Obara Yoshitaka , Chai Lee S. , Weinfeld Herbert , Sandberg Avery A.
Published: May 2004

Fusing human HeLa metaphase cells with HeLa interphase cells resulted within 30 min in either of two phenomena in the resultant binucleate cell: either prophasing of the interphase nucleus or formation of a normal-appearing nuclear envelope around the metaphase chromosomes. The frequency of either occurrence was strongly dependent on environmental pH. At pH's of 6.6–8.0, prophasing predominated; at pH 8.5 nuclear envelope formation predominated. Additionally, the frequencies of the two events in multinucleate cells depended on the metaphase/interphase ratio. When the ratio was 0.33 nuclear envelope formation predominated; when it was 2.0 prophasing predominated. In their general features, the results with fused HeLa cells resembled those reported earlier with fused Chinese hamster Don cells. However, the results provided an indication that between pH 6.6 and 8.0 the HeLa metaphase cells possessed a much greater capacity than the Don metaphase cells to induce prophasing. Fusion of Don metaphase cells with HeLa interphase cells or of Don interphase cells with HeLa metaphase cells at pH 8.0 resulted in nuclear envelope formation or prophasing in each kind of heterokaryon. As in the homokaryons, the frequencies of the two events in the heterokaryons depended on the metaphase/interphase ratio. The statistics of prophasing and nuclear envelope formation in the homo- and heterokaryon populations were consistent with the notion that disruption or formation of the nuclear envelope depends on the balance attained between disruptive and formative processes.
SPECIFICITY OF CREATINE IN THE CONTROL OF MUSCLE PROTEIN SYNTHESIS
Authors: Ingwall Joanne S. , Weiner Cynthia D. , Morales Manuel F. , Davis Elaine , Stockdale Frank E.
Published: May 2004

This study provides additional evidence that creatine, an end product of contraction unique to muscle, is involved in the control of muscle protein synthesis. Creatine is shown to stimulate selectively the rate of synthesis of two major contractile proteins, actin and myosin heavy chain, in cultures of differentiating skeletal muscle. Creatine affects only the rate of synthesis and not the rate of degradation. Several creatine analogs are as effective as creatine in stimulating muscle protein synthesis, creatinine and amino acids such as arginine and glycine are not. Creatine stimulates myosin heavy chain synthesis twofold in cultures of embryonic muscle grown in either normal or dialyzed media.
MICROTUBULE PROTEIN DURING CILIOGENESIS IN THE MOUSE OVIDUCT
Authors: Staprans Ilona , Dirksen Ellen Roter
Published: May 2004

A colchicine-binding assay and quantitative sodium dodecyl sulfate gel electrophoresis have been used to determine the changes which occur in microtubule protein (tubulin) concentrations in the particulate and soluble fractions of mouse oviduct homogenates during that period of development when centriole formation and cilium formation are at a maximum. When mouse oviducts, at various ages after birth, are homogenized in Tris-sucrose buffer, tubulin concentration is partitioned between the soluble (70%) and particulate (30%) fractions. During the period of most active organelle formation (3–12 days), there is a marked increase in colchicine-binding specific activity, in both the soluble and particulate fractions. Microtubule protein concentration increases from 16 to 24% in the soluble fraction, declining to 14% in the adult. In the particulate fractions, microtubule protein concentration increases from 16 to 27%, leveling off at 16% in the adult. We have concluded from these observations and from electron microscopy that colchicine-binding activity in the particulate fractions is related to the presence of centriole precursors in the pellets of homogenized oviducts from newborn mice. These data further suggest that centriole precursor structures are conveniently packaged aggregates of microtubule protein actively synthesized between 3 and 5 days, and maintained at a maximum during the most active period of organelle assembly.
PRODUCTION OF MEMBRANE WHORLS IN RAT LIVER BY SOME INHIBITORS OF PROTEIN SYNTHESIS
Authors: Hwang Kou M. , Yang Linda C. , Carrico Christine K. , Schulz Rose A. , Schenkman John B. , Sartorelli Alan C.
Published: May 2004

Inhibitors of protein synthesis capable of differential effects on nascent peptide synthesis on membrane-bound and free polyribosomes were employed to investigate the structure and function of cellular membranes of liver. The formation of membranous whorls in the cytoplasm and distension of nuclear membranes were induced by inhibitors of protein synthesis (i.e., cycloheximide and emetine) which predominantly interfere with nascent peptide synthesis on membrane-bound polyribosomes in situ. Other inhibitors of protein synthesis such as puromycin and fusidic acid, which inhibit nascent peptide synthesis on both free and membrane-bound polyribosomes, and chloramphenicol, which inhibits mitochondrial protein synthesis, did not induce these alterations. Cycloheximide, puromycin, and chloramphenicol produce some common cellular lesions as reflected by similar alterations in morphology, such as swelling of mitochondria, degranulation of rough endoplasmic reticulum, and aggregation of free ribosomes. The process of whorl formation in the cytoplasm, the incorporation of [3H]leucine and of [3H]choline into endoplasmic reticulum and the total NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity of the endoplasmic reticulum were determined. During maximum formation of membranous whorls, [3H]leucine incorporation into cytoplasmic membranes was inhibited, while [3H]choline incorporation into these structures was increased; maximum inhibition of protein synthesis and stimulation of choline incorporation into endoplasmic reticulum, however, preceded whorl formation. Cycloheximide decreased the activity of NADPH-cytochrome c reductase of rough endoplasmic reticulum, but increased NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. In addition, cycloheximide decreased the content of hemoprotein in both the microsomal and mitochondrial fractions of rat liver, and the activities of mixed function oxidase and of oxidative phosphorylation were impaired to different degrees. Succinate-stimulated microsomal oxidation was also inhibited. The possible mechanisms involved in the formation of membranous whorls, as well as their functions, are discussed.
VARIATION IN THE LIFE-SPAN OF CLONES DERIVED FROM HUMAN DIPLOID CELL STRAINS
Authors: Smith J. R. , Hayflick L.
Published: May 2004

The doubling potential of several hundred clones derived from WI-38 and WI-26 cell cultures has been determined. Clones were isolated at various population doubling levels (PDLs) during the finite in vitro life-span of the mass (uncloned) cultures. In all cases, there was a large variation in population doubling potential (or life-span) among the clones isolated from a single mass culture. When clones were isolated from mass cultures which had undergone eight or nine population doublings, only about 50% of the clones were capable of more than eight population doublings. This percentage was further reduced when clones were isolated from mass cultures at higher PDLs. Mass cultures appear to be composed of two subpopulation classes: one with a low population doubling potential, and the other with a higher population doubling potential. Nevertheless, the highest doubling potential observed in clones isolated from any single culture was about the same as the doubling potential of the mass culture from which single cells were taken.
DEMONSTRATION OF A FIBRILLAR COMPONENT IN THE CELL WALL OF THE YEAST SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE AND ITS CHEMICAL NATURE
Authors: Kopecká Marie , Phaff H. J. , Fleet G. H.
Published: May 2004

The ultrastructure of isolated cell walls of Saccharomyces cerevisiae from the log and stationary phases of growth was studied after treatment with the following enzymes: purified endo-ß-(1 → 3)-glucanase and endo-ß-(1 → 6)-glucanase produced by Bacillus circulans; purified exo-ß-glucanase and endo-ß-(1 → 3)-glucanase produced by Schizosaccharomyces versatilis; commercial Pronase. While exo-ß-glucanase from S. versatilis had no electron microscopically detectable effect on the walls, Pronase removed part of the external amorphous wall material disclosing an amorphous wall layer in which fibrils were indistinctly visible. Amorphous wall material was completely removed by the effect of either endo-ß-(1 → 3)- or endo-ß-(1 → 6)-glucanase of B. circulans or by a mixture of the two enzymes. As a result of these treatments a continuous fibrillar component appeared, composed of densely interwoven microfibrils resisting further action by both of the B. circulans enzymes. The fibrillar wall component was also demonstrated in untreated cell walls by electron microscopy after negative staining. Because of the complete disappearance of the fibrils following treatment with the S. versatilis endo-ß-(1 → 3)-glucanase it can be concluded that this fibrillar component is composed of ß-(1 → 3)-linked glucan. Bud scars were the only wall structures resistant to the effect of the latter enzyme.
DETERMINATION OF RATES OF DNA SYNTHESIS IN CULTURED MAMMALIAN CELL POPULATIONS
Authors: Siegers M. P. , Schaer J. C. , Hirsiger H. , Schindler R.
Published: May 2004

In cultures of a murine mastocytoma, endogenous synthesis of thymidine phosphates, as determined by the incorporation of [3H]deoxyuridine into DNA, was reduced within 15 min to less than 3% of control values by the addition of amethopterin (10 µM) in combination with hypoxanthine and glycine. If [3H]thymidine and unlabeled thymidine were added simultaneously with amethopterin, the increase with time of radioactivity in cellular DNA was linear at least between 30 and 90 min, while radioactivity in the acid-soluble nucleotide fraction remained constant during this time interval, indicating that intracellular thymidine nucleotides had the same specific activity as exogenously supplied [3H]thymidine. This permitted calculation of the amount of thymidine incorporated per hour into DNA of 106 cells. In conjunction with the base composition of mouse DNA, these results were used to calculate rates of DNA synthesis. Cell proliferation rate, cell cycle time, and the duration of the S period were not affected to any appreciable extent by the addition of amethopterin and thymidine. Rates of DNA synthesis, as derived from thymidine incorporation rates, were in good agreement with those derived from the measured mean DNA content of exponentially multiplying cells and rates of cell proliferation.
FRACTURE FACES OF OSMOTICALLY DISRUPTED ZONULAE OCCLUDENTES
Authors: Wade James B. , Karnovsky Morris J.
Published: May 2004

Exposing the mucosal epithelium of the toad urinary bladder to 240 mM urea in Ringer's solution is known to cause a dramatic increase in the permeability of the zonulae occludentes and the appearance of distended, bubble-like compartments within these junctions. Examination of such osmotically disrupted junctions with the freeze-fracture technique reveals that these bubbles result from a distention of the compartments existing within the meshwork of interconnecting fibrils characteristic of the zonulae occludentes in this epithelium. Frequent discontinuities in the meshwork of fibrils are also found after osmotic disruption of the junction. These observations indicate the essential role of these fibrils in maintaining the characteristic properties of the zonula occludens as a site of cell-to-cell attachment and as a permeability seal.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE REDISTRIBUTION OF SURFACE-BOUND CONCANAVALIN A ON HUMAN POLYMORPHONUCLEAR LEUKOCYTES
Authors: Ryan Graeme B. , Borysenko Joan Z. , Karnovsky Morris J.
Published: May 2004

Human neutrophil polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) were studied to determine the influence of cellular locomotion upon the redistribution and capping of concanavalin A (Con A). Con A was detected by fluorescence (using Con A conjugated to fluorescein isothiocyanate [Con A-FITC]), or on shadow-cast replicas (using Busycon canaliculatum hemocyanin as a marker for Con A). After labeling with Con A 100 µg/ml at 4°C and warming to 37°C, locomotion occurred, and the Con A quickly aggregated into a cap at the trailing end of the cell. When locomotion was inhibited (with cytochalasin B, or by incubation in serum-free medium at 18°C) Con A rapidly formed a cap over the central region of the cell. Iodoacetamide inhibited capping. PMN labeled with FITC, a monovalent ligand, developed caps at the tail only on motile cells; FITC remained dispersed on immobilized cells.

PMN exposed to Con A 100 µg/ml at 37°C bound more lectin than at 4°C, became immobilized, and showed slow central capping. The Con A soon became internalized to form a perinuclear ring. Such treatment in the presence of cytochalasin B resulted in the quick formation of persistent central caps. Colchicine (or prior cooling) protected PMN from the immobilizing effect of Con A, and tail caps were found on 30–40% of cells. Immobilization of colchicine-treated cells caused Con A to remain in dispersed clusters.

Thus, capping on PMN is a temperature- and energy-dependent process that proceeds independently of cellular locomotion, provided a colchicine-sensitive system is intact and the ligand is capable of cross linking receptors. On the other hand, if the cell does move, it appears that ligands may be swept into a cap at the tail whether cross-linking occurs or not.
THE KINETICS OF CELLULAR COMMITMENT DURING STIMULATION OF LYMPHOCYTES BY LECTINS
Authors: Gunther Gary R. , Wang John L. , Edelman Gerald M.
Published: May 2004

The kinetics of cellular commitment in the stimulation of lymphocytes by concanavalin A (Con A) has been analyzed by measurement of DNA synthesis, autoradiography, and histologic staining techniques. If the competitive inhibitor α-methyl-D-mannoside (αMM) is introduced into cultures of mouse spleen cells at various times after the addition of Con A, there is a gradual decrease in its capacity to inhibit the lectin-stimulated incorporation of [3H]thymidine. Addition of the saccharide 20 h after exposure of the cells to Con A had no effect on the level of the cellular response to the lectin. With increasing periods of contact with Con A, the percentage of blast cells and the percentage of [3H]thymidine-labeled blast cells increased in parallel with the total radioactive thymidine incorporated while the average number of autoradiographic grains per labeled blast cell remained relatively constant. These observations suggest that the rising level of [3H]thymidine incorporation results from an increase in the number of cells that respond to lectin stimulation and become refractory to inhibition with αMM. Once such cells become committed, they synthesize DNA at a rate independent of the length of exposure to the lectin. The combined results indicate that mouse splenic lymphocytes are heterogeneous in their capacities to respond to Con A and that different cells require different induction periods to be stimulated.
ACTION OF CYTOCHALASIN D ON CELLS OF ESTABLISHED LINES
Authors: Miranda Armand F. , Godman Gabriel C. , Tanenbaum Stuart W.
Published: May 2004

Cells in culture exposed to cytochalasin D (CD) rapidly undergo a long-sustained tonic contraction. Coincident with this contracture the thin microfilaments of the cortex become compacted into feltlike masses. The ravelled filaments of these masses remain actinlike and bind heavy meromyosin; they are not disrupted or disaggregated, but rather, appear to represent a contracted state of the microfilament apparatus of the cell cortex. On continued exposure to CD, ‘myoid’ bundles, containing thick, dense filaments, and larger fusiform or ribbonlike, putatively myosinoid, aggregates may appear.

These appearances are interpreted as consequences of a state of hypercontraction without relaxation induced by CD. They do not occur in CD-treated cells prevented from contracting by inhibitors of energy metabolism, and are readily reversible on withdrawal of CD. Extensive ordered arrays of thin microfilaments develop in cells which are reextending during early recovery.
MICROTUBULE ARMS AND CYTOPLASMIC STREAMING AND MICROTUBULE BENDING AND STRETCHING OF INTERTUBULE LINKS IN THE FEEDING TENTACLE OF THE SUCTORIAN CILIATE TOKOPHRYA
Authors: Tucker J. B.
Published: May 2004

Microtubules attached to the pellicle at the tips of tentacles pivot through about 140° on these attachments, splay apart, and bend along their longitudinal axes when feeding occurs. The tubules could be bending in response to pellicular contractions; active bending, sliding, or contraction of the tubules may not be involved. Intertubule links apparently prevent tubules from splaying apart at certain levels. These links are probably under tension during feeding. They stretch; they sometimes become half as thick and eight times as long as they are before feeding. Often, tubules joined together by these links also change in shape; they become slightly flattened and elliptical in cross section.

Cytoplasm from the ciliate Tetrahymena is drawn down a feeding tentacle inside an invagination of the Tokophrya cell membrane from the tentacle tip. The positions of arm-bearing microtubules around such invaginations indicate that arms are involved in moving invaginations along. The edges of the perforated Tetrahymena cell membrane are "sealed" to the cell membrane of Tokophrya around each feeding tentacle tip.
OBSERVATIONS ON EARLY GERM CELL DEVELOPMENT AND PREMEIOTIC RIBOSOMAL DNA AMPLIFICATION IN XENOPUS LAEVIS
Authors: Kalt Marvin R. , Gall Joseph G.
Published: May 2004

The origin of premeiotic ribosomal DNA (rDNA) amplification in germ-line cells of Xenopus laevis has been examined using in situ RNA-DNA hybridization on cytological preparations, tritiated thymidine autoradiography, and isopycnic density gradient centrifugation. Primordial germ cells (PGC), from the time they first become localized in the genital ridge at day no. 4 of development, until approximately day no. 22, remain in an extended interphase condition. During this time PGC do not incorporate tritiated thymidine, have near diploid levels of rDNA as demonstrated by cytological RNA-DNA hybridization, and possess only one or two nucleoli. Starting on day no. 22–24, mitosis, sexual differentiation, and rDNA gene amplification all begin in the germ cells. Multiple nucleoli also make their appearance at this stage. Ribosomal DNA amplification continues in gonial cells as long as they remain mitotically active. Amplified copies of rDNA are lost from germ cells at the onset of meiotic prophase. This loss is probably permanent in the male germ line, but variable and temporary in the female germ line. Early gonial cells in the ovary have been deduced to have an average cycle time for each mitotic division of between 3.8 and 4.3 days at a temperature of 21°C. Some oogonia appear to divide only four times before entering meiotic prophase, while the average during the initial wave of germ cell division is nine. Finally, a satellite DNA has been isolated from adult testes which has a density in neutral cesium chloride corresponding to the density of amplified oocyte rDNA. This satellite is not present in DNA isolated from somatic tissues of Xenopus.
THE REGULATORY ROLE OF DIVALENT CATIONS IN HUMAN GRANULOCYTE CHEMOTAXIS
Authors: Gallin John I. , Rosenthal Alan S.
Published: May 2004

Optimal human granulocyte chemotaxis has been shown to require both calcium and magnesium. Exposure of granulocytes to three different chemotactic factors (C5a, kallikrein, and dialyzable transfer factor) yielded a rapid calcium release, depressed calcium uptake, and was associated with a shift of calcium out of the cytoplasm and into a granule fraction. Colchicine, sodium azide, and cytochalasin B, in concentrations that inhibited chemotaxis, also inhibited calcium release while low concentrations of cytochalasin B, which enhanced chemotaxis, also enhanced calcium release. Microtubule assembly was visualized both in cells suspended in C5a without a chemotactic gradient and in cells actively migrating through a Micropore filter. The data suggest microtubule assembly is regulated, at least, in part, by the level of cytoplasmic calcium. It is proposed that asymmetric assembly of microtubules may be instrumental in imparting the net vector of motion during chemotaxis.
STUDIES ON THE BIOGENESIS OF SMOOTH ENDOPLASMIC RETICULUM MEMBRANES IN HEPATOCYTES OF PHENOBARBITAL-TREATED RATS
Authors: Higgins Joan A.
Published: May 2004

The specific activity of the acyltransferases of smooth microsomes of rat liver rose threefold by 12 h after injection of phenobarbital, while the activity of the acyltransferases of the rough microsomes rose slightly to peak at 3–4 h, and subsequently fell. The latter rise was abolished by treatment of the animal with actinomycin D or puromycin, while that of the smooth microsomes was unaffected. Incorporation of [14C]glycerol into phospholipid of smooth microsomes was elevated 100% by phenobarbital, while that of the rough microsomes was elevated 15%, and this could be accounted for by exchange between the microsomal phospholipids. The phospholipid/protein ratio of the smooth microsomes rose 1.5 times 3–4 h after injection of phenobarbital, while that of the rough microsomes fell slightly. The specific activity of NADPH cytochrome c reductase and NADPH diaphorase rose first in the rough microsomes, and subsequently in the smooth microsomes at a time coinciding with the return of the phospholipid/protein ratio to the control level. The rise in phospholipid/protein ratio was unaffected by actinomycin D or puromycin. These results indicate that the proliferating smooth membranes are the site of phospholipid synthesis, and that the phospholipid/protein ratio of these membranes may change independently.