bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Double Blind Study on Immunotherapy with Chemically Modified Honey Bee Venom: Monomethoxy Polyethylene Glycol-Coupled versus Crude Honey Bee Venom
Authors: Müller U. , Lanner A. , Schmid P. , Bischof M. , Dreborg S. , Hoigné R.
Published: August 2009

24 patients with honey bee sting allergy were treated with either honey bee venom (HBV) or monomethoxy polyethylene glycol-coupled HBV (PEG-HBV) in a double blind trial. Both treatments induced a strong increase in HBV-specific IgG antibodies in most patients. Immunotherapy with PEG-HBV was much better tolerated than that with HBV. Conversely, patients on HBV did considerably better during a sting challenge with a living honey bee. Only 4 developed a large local and one a mild systemic reaction compared to 7 large local and 3 moderate to severe systemic reactions in the PEG-HBV-group. A higher maintenance dose of PEG-HBV may still be well tolerated but prove more effective at reexposure.
The Role of IgG4 as Blocking Antibodies in Asthmatics and in Bee Keepers
Authors: Nakagawa Takemasa , Miyamoto Terumasa
Published: August 2009

Sera from 40 asthmatic patients and from 77 bee keepers were evaluated by solid-phase radioimmunoassay for their allergen-specific IgG4 antibody levels. The results indicated that allergen-specific IgG4 antibodies become prominent upon repeated parenteral stimulation with antigen, i.e. immunotherapy and bee stings, and suggested the possible association of IgG4 with blocking antibodies in these allergic conditions.
Activation of Human Basophils by Bacterial Products
Authors: Marone G. , Columbo M. , Tamburini M. , Romagnani S.
Published: August 2009

Staphylococcus aureus Cowan I (Cowan Staph A+), which synthetizes protein A (Staph A), induced histamine release from human basophils. In contrast, S. aureus Wood 46 (Wood Staph A––), which does not synthetize Staph A, did not induce histamine secretion. Soluble Staph A and Cowan Staph A+ induced histamine release by interacting with the alternative F(ab′)2-binding site of IgE and/or IgG present on human basophils. Pepstatin A, a pentapeptide synthetized by various actinomycetes, induced histamine secretion by activating a specific membrane receptor, which is also activated by synthetic formylmethionine-containing peptides.
Histamine Release by Esterase Inhibitors
Authors: Meier Henry L. , Gross Clark L. , Papirmeister Bruno , Kagey-Sobotka Anne , Kilduff Julia E.
Published: August 2009

The serine esterase inhibitor diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) has been shown to inhibit IgE-dependent histamine release. Recently, it has been demonstrated that lower concentrations of DFP enhanced IgE-dependent histamine release and inhibited desensitization. This manuscript describes the ability of another esterase inhibitor, pinacolyl methylphosphorofluoridate (soman), to directly cause release of histamine from human leukocytes (basophils) by a process that is IgE-independent. This release process requires calcium and is also temperature-dependent but occurs over a longer period of time than IgE-dependent release. These data suggest that there is a serine esterase which controls histamine release, and inhibition of this esterase causes histamine release.
Differential Inhibition of Histamine Release from Human Basophils Induced by Antigen, Anti-IgE or N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine
Authors: Conroy M.C. , Kennedy J.A. , Thueson D.O.
Published: August 2009

We report differential effects of various compounds on inhibition of histamine release from washed leukocytes stimulated through IgE (using antigen or anti-IgE antibody) or N-formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine (FMLP) receptors. Inhibition of IgE-induced release was seen for several compounds listed in order of potency (IC50 in μM): CI-922 (3,7-dimethoxy-4-phenyl-N-(l-H-tetrazol-5-yl)-4-H-furo-[3,2-b]-indole-2-carboxamide, 1-arginate) < NDGA < BW755c < proxicromil < isamoxole < phenidone. Other compounds including FPL 55712, meclofenamate, and indomethacin were inactive or enhanced IgE-mediated release. When FMLP was used to stimulate histamine release the order of potency (IC50) changed: meclofenamate = FPL 55712 = proxicromil < CI-922 < NDGA = BW755c < indomethacin < isamoxole = phenidone. The inhibition of FMLP-induced histamine release by FPL 55712, meclofenamate and indomethacin in the absence of inhibition (or even enhancement) of histamine release by the IgE mechanism suggests that different pathways of activation and/or control are critical in the release process when different stimuli are used to activate basophils.
Secretion of IgE-Specific Potentiating Factors by Human FcεR+ T Cell Lines
Authors: Leung Donald Y.M. , Young Michael C. , Geha Raif S.
Published: August 2009

In the present study, FcεR+ and FcεR–– T cells were isolated from patients with the hyper-IgE syndrome and maintained in long-term cultures with interleukin 2. Supernatants from the FcεR+ but not from the FcεR–– T cell lines enhanced IgE but not IgG synthesis in B cells derived from patients with allergic rhinitis. There was, however, no induction of IgE synthesis in B cells from nonatopic donors. The IgE-potentiating factors bound to IgE-Sepharose but not to IgG-Sepharose. The target B cells for these IgE binding factors appear to be preactivated IgE-bearing B cells.
Appearance of Basophilic Cells/Mast Cells and IgE Antibodies in Liquid Human Cell Cultures
Authors: Ahlstedt S. , Björkstén B. , Borwell J. , Hammarström I. , Nybacka J.-O.
Published: August 2009

Maturation of basophils/mast cells as well as formation of IgE antibodies are parts of the immune response to antigens. We have analyzed these important constituents of the allergic inflammatory response in vitro, cultivating human peripheral blood cells from allergic and normal individuals. Mesenteric lymph nodes were also cultured from two normals. In liquid cultures of peripheral blood cells, the number of small basophils initially present decreased and large basophilic cells appeared over a 2-week period. In normals, the maturation of large basophils from precursor cells could be stimulated with supernatants from peripheral blood cell cultures from atopic individuals stimulated with the relevant allergen. The IgE levels declined in cultures of peripheral blood, whereas the IgE antibodies in cultures of cells from a mesenteric lymph node from one of the nonallergic individuals increased during the 2-week period. In separate cultures, the IgE formation could not be reproducibly stimulated by antigen or mitogen. The study shows the possibility to stimulate the maturation of basophil/mast cell precursor cells present in the blood of allergic and healthy individuals with antigen-induced factors. In contrast, the IgE formation by blood cells was difficult to stimulate.
The Inhibition Mechanism of Histamine Release by N-(3,4-Dimethoxycinnamoyl) Anthranilic Acid
Authors: Koda Akihide , Kurashina Yoshikazu , Nakazawa Masayuki
Published: August 2009

N-(3,4-Dimethoxycinnamoyl) anthranilic acid (N-5′) is an inhibitor of IgE-mediated histamine release from mast cells. To elucidate inhibition mechanism, effects of N-5′ were examined under various conditions using peritoneal exudate cells and isolated mast cells of rats. N-5′ inhibited histamine release induced by antigen, ionophore A 23187, ATP, dextran and phospholipase A2. But the release induced by compound 48/80 or ionophore X537 A was not inhibited. Influx of Ca++ into mast cells and ATP consumption were inhibited. Based on these results, it is presumed that N-5′ interferes with the energy-requiring system and/or Ca++ influx resulting in the inhibition of histamine release.
Cytophilic IgE on Human Blood and Tissue Eosinophils
Authors: Capron Monique , Kusnierz J.P. , Prin L. , Spiegelberg H.L. , Khalife J. , Tonnel A.B. , Capron A.
Published: August 2009

Flow microfluorometry (FMF) was used to investigate the presence of cytophilic Ig (IgE or IgG) and the proportion of Fc receptor (FcεR or FcγR)-bearing eosinophils among eosinophils from 21 hypereosinophilic patients. In 75% of the cases, it was possible to detect cytophilic IgE, significantly associated with serum IgE levels. Moreover, when lung and blood eosinophils were compared, the proportion of occupied FcεR was significantly increased on lung eosinophils, whereas very few cells had cytophilic IgG. This work provides further evidence that cytophilic IgE is not restricted to cells with high-affinity FcεR but can also be detected on the cell populations with low-affinity IgE receptors. These findings support the view that eosinophils can act as effector cells in immediate hypersensitivity reactions and in diseases associated with increased IgE production and hypereosinophilia.
Inhibition of the Presumably Leukotriene-Dependent Component of Antigen-Induced Bronchoconstriction in the Guinea Pig by Piriprost (U-60,257)
Authors: Bach Michael K. , Griffin Robert L. , Richards Ivan M.
Published: August 2009

Piriprost (U-60,257), a selective inhibitor of the 5-lipoxygenase, inhibited bronchoconstriction in a modification of the Konzett-Rossler procedure in which bronchoconstriction in sensitized guinea pigs may reflect leukotriene production. The duration of action of this compound and also the possible development of tachyphylaxis to its action upon repeated dosing were studied using a newly developed procedure for dosing conscious animals via the aerosol route. Duration of action with the lowest concentration which afforded maximum protection (180 s exposure to a 0.01% solution) was approximately 1.5 h. No decrease in drug potency was observed after 7 daily drug treatments.
IgE Fc Receptor Positive T, B and NK Cells in Patients with the Hyper-IgE Syndrome
Authors: Spiegelberg Hans L. , Thompson Linda F. , McNeil Donald , Buckley Rebecca H.
Published: August 2009

Patients with the hyper-IgE syndrome have greatly elevated percentages of IgE Fc receptor (FcεR)-positive B cells, but they have less than 0.1% FcεR+ T cells (Tε cells) and few, if any, FcεR+ natural killer cells. They also have markedly decreased numbers of IgG receptor positive (FcγR+) T cells (Tγ cells). Patients with the hyper-IgE syndrome resemble in this respect patients with severe atopic dermatitis. Since a portion of Tε and Tγ cells of mildly atopic patients react with monoclonal antibody OKT8, they may have a suppressor function. However, whether the low number of Tε cells is responsible for the high IgE serum level in hyper-IgE syndrome and atopic dermatitis patients remains to be demonstrated. Attempts to obtain a reliable assay for human IgE synthesis in vitro to investigate the function of FcεR-positive lymphocytes proved to be difficult. Even isolated B cells from atopic donors seldom produced more than twice the quantity of IgE released from cells incubated in the presence of the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide.
Binding and Uptake of Mercuric Chloride in Human Lymphoid Cells
Authors: Nordlind K.
Published: August 2009

Animal and human lymphoid cells are stimulated in their DNA synthesis by mercuric chloride. A direct binding of labelled mercuric chloride (203HgCl2) to the membranes of human thymocytes and peripheral blood lymphocytes could be demonstrated as early as 15 min after isotope addition. There was also an uptake of mercury in the nuclei, as determined by liquid scintillation. The isotope activity was recovered in the phenol-soluble nuclear fraction, i.e. containing non-histone phosphoproteins.
T Cell Dependence of Human IgE Response: Quantitative and Functional Studies
Authors: Gurbindo Covadonga , Tricas Lourdes , Lauzurica Pilar , Ureña Victoria , Garcia Rosa , Lahoz Carlos
Published: August 2009

In 108 allergic and nonallergic patients T3, T4 and T8 cells were quantified. No significant differences were found when comparing healthy and allergic individuals. Functionally, the role of T8 supressor and cytotoxic population was studied by removing this subset, comparing the IgE produced in vitro by peripheral blood lymphocytes of unfractionated and T8-depleted cultures. Results indicate a statistically significant increase of the in vitro IgE production when cultures from healthy people and ‘normoproducer’ allergies (in vitro spontaneous IgE production no more than 900 pg/ml/107 cells) were depleted of T8 cells. The same experiments in ‘hyperproducer’ allergies (in vitro spontaneous IgE production more than 900 pg/ml/l07 cells) show no significant difference in the IgE production when T8 cells were depleted.
Demonstration of Allospecific Differences in Human Stratum corneum Autoantibodies by Blocking Immunofluorescence
Authors: Dabski Krzysztof , Beutner Ernst H.
Published: August 2009

Stratum corneum antibody titers of six normal human sera were determined by indirect immunofluorescence on three different epidermal substrates with and without preincubation of the substrates with one monkey serum. In three out of six human sera the reaction of stratum corneum antibodies was inhibited on all three substrates, in one serum the inhibition was noted on two out of three substrates and no effect was observed in two sera. These findings provide further evidence for the existence of allospecific stratum corneum antibodies in human sera and for the presence of both species-specific and species-nonspecific glycoprotein stratum corneum antigens in human epidermis.
Antigen Challenge and Canine Tracheal Mucus
Authors: King Malcolm , El-Azab Judy , Phillips David M. , Angus Elspeth
Published: August 2009

Tracheal mucus hypersecretion was demonstrated in 7 dogs with cutaneous sensitivity to extracts of Ascaris suum when the dogs were exposed to aerosols of the same antigen. There was a correlation between antigen skin sensitivity and the aerosol dose at which hypersecretion first occured. In addition to hypersecretion, antigen challenge led to significant alterations in mucus viscoelasticity. The dose-response pattern was similar to that seen with methacholine and histamine aerosol administration in dogs employing the same methodology. The antigen-induced hypersecretion was blocked or substantially reduced by pretreatment with atropine, H1-antagonists, and thiazinamium chloride. These observations suggest that mucus hypersecretion associated with A. suum challenge in dogs involves histamine release and proceeds at least in part via a cholinergic mechanism.
Antibody Determination against Aspergillusfumigatus by Means of the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Kauffman H.F. , van der Laan S. , van der Heyden P.J. , van der Heide S. , de Vries K.
Published: August 2009

The liberation of polystyrene binding antigenic components (PBC) of Aspergillus fumigatus involved in ELISA IgG measurements was studied during cultivation in the culture filtrates. PBC were rapidly liberated into the culture medium during the logarithmic phase of growth (phase I), were in part degraded or reconsumed during the stationary phase (phase II) and again secreted (other PBC) during the lytic phase (phase III). ELISA IgG titers and numbers of precipitating components are not always related with one another, may show an inverse relationship; maximal ELISA titers are reached during phase I when precipitating components are limited. The striking similarity between the liberation of PBC and IgE-binding components is discussed.
Increased Frequency of High Serum IgM among Mothers of Infants with Neonatal Group-B Streptococcal Septicemia
Authors: Rundgren Å.K. , Christensen K.K. , Christensen P.
Published: August 2009

Total serum IgM levels were studied in 84 mothers of infants with group-B streptococcal (GBS) septicemia/meningitis and compared to IgM concentrations in 91 parturients who were urogenital carriers of GBS but nevertheless gave birth to healthy infants. In all, 22 (27%) in the study group showed IgM levels above the arbitrarily selected limit of 2.40 g/l, in contrast to 12 (13%) of 91 controls (p = 0.02). Among the study group members whose infants were infected with GBS type III, 8 of 34 (24%) were high in serum IgM, compared to only 2 of 34 (6%) of the corresponding controls (p = 0.04). The total serum IgG levels did not differ between the two groups.
Identification of Orchard Grass (Dactylis glomerata) Pollen Allergens following Electrophoretic Transfer to Nitrocellulose
Authors: Ford S.A. , Tovey E.R. , Baldo B.A.
Published: August 2009

Orchard grass (cocksfoot) pollen extracts, fractionated by polyacrylamide gradient electrophoresis or SDS gel electrophoresis were electroblotted onto nitrocellulose membranes and probed with sera from orchard grass pollen-allergic patients and 125I-anti-human IgE. The IgE-binding components of the pollen were detected by autoradiography. Elution studies showed that allergens could be extracted immediately and continuously over a 3-hour period. Two fractions of MWs 28,000 and 30,000 could be detected only after 20 min extraction. SDS-PAGE separations gave the better resolution revealing 19 electrophoretically-separate components, 13 of which bound human IgE. All of the IgE-binding components had MWs in the range 14,000–70,000. Three of the bands bound IgE from more than 85% of the serum samples. Following gradient gel electrophoresis, IgE binding was exhibited by 10 bands in the range MW 5,000 to > 669,000. The technique used allows one to quantitatively examine patients’ sera for allergen-specific IgE antibodies and to identify the clinically important allergens. Results revealed numerous allergenic components over a wide MW range while patterns of IgE binding with different patients’ sera demonstrated a great diversity of IgE antibody responses. This study demonstrates the suitability of the electroblotting technique combined with autoradiography for the investigation of allergenic components of grass pollen extracts and hence has application to extract standardization and immunotherapy. Such studies can be carried out rapidly, economically and with a high degree of sensitivity.
In vivo Effects of Cyclosporin A: Abrogation of the Induction of Experimental Allergic Orchitis and Sparing of the Generation of Suppressor Cells
Authors: Hojo Kenji , Hiramine Chiharu
Published: August 2009

Cyclosporin A (CyA; 10 mg/kg/day) administration for 14 days, starting on the day of immunization with testicular antigen (TA) in complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA), almost completely abrogated the induction of experimental allergic orchitis (EAO), delayed skin reactivities to both TA and purified protein derivative of tuberculin (PPD), and antisperm antibody response in strain 13 guinea pigs when examined 2 weeks after immunization. The unresponsive state induced was of a transitory nature. After cessation of CyA treatment, EAO-eliciting capability and cellular immune responsiveness recovered in relatively short time, while restoration of humoral immune responsiveness was delayed. Transfer of lymph node cells taken from CyA-treated, EAO-suppressed animals at 2 weeks postimmunization into normal syngeneic recipients inhibited the induction of EAO and delayed skin response. The suppressor cell activity appeared to be at least in part antigen-specific. It seems likely, therefore, that the profound suppression of EAO by CyA could be explained as due to the additive effect of the inhibition of helper/inducer T cell generation and the sparing or activation of suppressor cell populations.
The Role of 5-Lipoxygenase Pathway Activation in Basophil Histamine Release
Authors: Morita Yutaka , Suzuki Shuji , Miyamoto Terumasa
Published: August 2009

This study was performed to evaluate the role of products of the 5-lipoxygenase pathway in histamine release from human basophils. AA-861, a specific inhibitor of 5-lipoxygenase, did not inhibit anti-IgE-induced histamine release from human basophils with 6 ± 11% inhibition at 10––6M. Neither was there a marked inhibition of histamine release induced by ionophore A23187 and formyl-L-methionyl-L-leucyl-L-phenylalanine with 16 ± 10 and 11 ± 6% inhibition respectively at 10––6M of AA-861. In contrast, AA-861 enhanced 12-0-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate-induced histamine release with 20 ± 3% at 10––6M. These results suggest that 5-lipoxygenase activation may not play a role in basophil histamine release.
Isotypic Analysis of Antibody Response to a Food Antigen in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Paganelli R. , Pallone F. , Montano S. , Le Moli S. , Matricardi P.M. , Fais S. , Paoluzi P. , D’Amelio R. , Aiuti F.
Published: August 2009

We studied the class-specific antibody response to the cow’s milk antigen/Mactoglobulin (β-LG) in sera from patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. IgG and IgM to β-L·G were significantly higher in patients when compared to healthy non-atopic controls, whereas IgA values were similar, and specific IgE absent in all groups. No correlation between IgG- or IgM-containing immune complexes was found with the corresponding isotype of antibody to β-LG; however, IgM complexes correlated with serum total IgM in ulcerative colitis. In these patients, IgG antibodies were higher in active cases, whereas IgM increased in patients without signs of disease activity. Antibody titers did not correlate with disease duration or administration of antiinflammatory drugs. This pattern of anti-β-LG reactivity suggests that the presence of intestinal lesions may be revealed by the selective increase of some antibody isotypes to orally administered antigens. Enhanced mucosal permeability may be studied by this type of serological analysis.
Pharmacologic Modulation of the IgE or Ca2+ Ionophore A23187 Mediated Ca2+ Influx, Phospholipase Activation, and Histamine Release in Rat Basophilic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Urata Chikao , Siraganian Reuben P.
Published: August 2009

The stimulation of the rat basophilic leukemia cells (RBL-2H3) mediated either through the IgE receptor or by the Ca2+ ionophore A23187 results in 45Ca2+ influx, phospholipase activation, and histamine release. This study compared in parallel the effects of pharmacological agents on 45Ca2+ influx, phospholipase activation as measured by the release of [14C]-arachidonic acid, and histamine release. Microtubule-depolymerizing agents (demecolcine, colchicine, and vinblastine sulfate) did not affect 45Ca2+ influx, but blocked the IgE- or A23187-mediated [14C]-arachidonic acid and histamine release (e.g., IC50 for vinblastine sulfate = 10 nM). In contrast, a microtubule-stabilizing agent (taxol) blocked the IgE- and A23187-mediated 45Ca2+ influx and [14C]-arachidonic acid and histamine release (IC50 = 20 µM). Microfilament-disrupting agents (cytochalasin B, C, D, and E) enhanced 45Ca2+ influx and [14C]-arachidonic acid and histamine release in the same dose-dependent fashion (e.g., EC50 for cytochalasin B = 0.4 µM). Other pharmacological agents such as a metabolic inhibitor (antimycin A), calmodulin inhibitors (W-7, trifluopromazine), and protease inhibitors (TPCK and TLCK) blocked the IgE- and A23187-mediated 45Ca2+ influx and [14C]-arachidonic acid and histamine release. Therefore, the coupling of Ca2+ influx and the phospholipase activation step requires a functioning microtubule system. Other inhibitors act at sites prior to the Ca2+ influx step in the release process.
Pharmacological Characterization of Mouse Ear PCA
Authors: Inagaki Naoki , Goto Shoichi , Nagai Hiroichi , Koda Akihide
Published: August 2009

Effects of some antiallergic agents on homologous passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) in mouse ear were investigated by means of assessing the amount of extravasated dye. Antihistamines (chlorpheniramine and diphenhydramine) and antiserotonins (methysergide and cyproheptadine) suppressed mouse ear PCA significantly. In contrast, an antagonist of slow reacting substance of anaphylaxis (SRS-A) (FPL 55712) and an inhibitor of SRS-A synthesis (AA-861) did not suppress the reaction. β-Adrenergic stimulants (isoproterenol and salbutamol) and theophylline, which elevate cyclic AMP (cAMP) levels, also suppressed mouse ear PCA significantly. The antiallergic agents, N(3′,4′-dimethoxycinnamoyl)anthranilic acid(N-5′) and ketotifen suppressed mouse ear PCA significantly, but disodium cromoglycate (DSCG) failed to suppress the reaction.
Antibody Determination against Aspergillus fumigatus by Means of the Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Kauffmari H.F , van der Heyden P.J. , van der Laan S. , van der Heide S. , Beaumont F. , de Vries K.
Published: August 2009

Polystyrene-binding antigenic components (PBC) of Aspergillus fumigatus involved in ELISA IgG antibody determinations and the corresponding numbers of precipitates found by double immunodiffusion (DID) and/or crossed immunoelectrophoresis (CIE) were studied using culture filtrate antigenic preparations fractionated by Sephadex G-100 chromatography, concanavalin A (ConA) affinity chromatography, isoelectric focusing (IEF) and TCA precipitation. It is shown that PBC, immunologically active in ELISA, are characterized by high molecular weights and ConA-binding properties. The pi values of these components were 3.5–6 and above 8. The glycoprotein and/or mucocpolysaccharide nature is suggested by the binding to ConA and their partial resistance to trichloroacetic acid treatment. By contrast, low-molecular weight components and antigenic components that are not absorbed by ConA being active in DID and/or CIE showed less or absence of binding to the polystyrene surface.
Hyperventilation-Induced Bronchoconstriction in Guinea Pigs
Authors: Chapman Richard W. , Danko Gisela
Published: August 2009

The purpose of this study was to investigate the pulmonary effects of hyperventilation in anesthetized, mechanically ventilated guinea pigs. Airway resistance (Raw), dynamic lung compliance (CDyn), blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), arterial blood gases (PaO2, PaCO2), pH and arterial plasma HCO3–– were measured before and after a 10-min period of hyperventilation produced by increasing the respiratory rate from 60 to 120 breaths/min while maintaining tidal volume at 4 ml. There was a significant increase in Raw and decrease in CDyn lasting up to 20 min after hyperventilation was stopped with no change in BP and HR. PaO2 was reduced from 109 ± 3 mm Hg before to 53 ± 7 mm Hg at 5 min after hyperventilation. The Raw and CDyn changes were prevented and reversed with the bronchodilators salbutamol and aminophylline indicating that reversible bronchospasms are induced in guinea pigs following a period of hyperventilation. Additional studies demonstrated that the pulmonary mechanical responses to hyperventilation were not changed by vagotomy, ventilation with high CO2 or by pretreatment with chlorpheniramine, methysergide, atropine, indomethacin, FPL 55712 or calcium-influx blockers. These results indicate that neither vagal reflexes, airway hypocapnia, receptors of histamine, serotonin, acetylcholine nor the products of arachidonic acid metabolism were involved in hyperventilation-induced bronchospasm in guinea pigs.
Allergens in Pollen from Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris L.)
Authors: Paulsen Smestad , Flø L. , Nesje G. , Wold J.K.
Published: August 2009

The results obtained in these studies show that certain mugwort allergens are extracted after 5 min extraction time and that there is little difference whether phosphate-buffered saline or NH4HCO3 is used as extraction buffer. An extraction time of 1 h appears to be sufficient for a quantitative extraction of the main part of the allergens present. When the extracts are dialyzed, cathodic antigens/allergens are lost. Addition of thiourea leads to a reduction in the coloured matter of the extract, but not in a sufficient degree to recommend the compound to be included in the extraction procedures of allergens from mugwort pollen. A few allergens are heatresistant, and as these fractions are richer in carbohydrate than equivalent fractions not being heattreated, these allergens might be of glycoprotein nature. Structural features of the carbohydrate moiety are also described as well as the total amino acid composition of the protein moiety.
Dextran and Antidextran Antibodies in the Sera of Patients with Liver Diseases
Authors: Morito Takao , Nishimaki Tomoe , Saito Koichi , Yoshida Hiroshi , Kasukawa Reiji , Kano Kyoichi
Published: August 2009

Dextran and antidextran antibodies were examined by enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and iramunodiffusion in sera of 108 patients with various liver diseases. In EIA, IgG class antidextran antibody was detected in 16 patients (14.8%), mostly with chronic liver diseases such as liver cirrhosis (26.9%) and chronic hepatitis (22.2%). IgM class antibody was detected in 10 patients (9.2%). Results obtained by EIA inhibition revealed that dextran antigen was present mostly in sera of patients with acute liver diseases such as fulminant hepatitis (75.0%) and acute hepatitis (17.2%). Identity of the dextran antigen in the liver diseases serum and the dextran preparation recognized by an antibody-containing serum was demonstrated. These results suggest that the damaged hepatocytes in the process of the liver disease may release the dextran antigen into the patient’s circulation which is responsible for the formation of antidextran antibodies by the patients with liver diseases.
Activities of a Soluble Extract from Lymphoid Cells of MRL Mice
Authors: Katagiri T. , Nakano T. , Ueno K. , Ohsugi Y. , Fujiwara M.
Published: August 2009

Soluble extract (sEx) was prepared from lymphoid cells of MRL/Mp-lpr/lpr (MRL/l) mice with early lupus nephritis and also of MRL/Mp- +/+ (MRL/n) mice. sEx from lymph node and spleen T cells of MRL/l mice had an activity for B cells to differentiate into immunoglobulin-producing cells but that of MRL/n mice did not show such an activity. sEx of MRL/l mice also enhanced the in vitro response of B cells to a suboptimal dose of lipopolysaccharide. Implication of these phenomena in the development of lupus nephritis is discussed.
Effects of Various Cytochalasins on the IgE-Mediated Serotonin Release from Rat Basophilic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Teshima Reiko , Ikebuchi Hideharu , Sekita Setsuko , Natori Shinsaku , Terao Tadao
Published: August 2009

The effects of cytochalasins on the antigen-induced serotonin release from rat basophilic leukemia cells were investigated. These drugs could be divided into four groups based on their effect on the release: (1) drugs which enhance the release, (2) drugs which enhance the release at a low dose (10––7 and 10––6M) and inhibit it at a high dose (10––5 and 10––4M), (3) drugs which show only inhibition, and (4) drugs which are inert or slightly stimulate the reaction. Cytochalasins B and D were included in group 1 and chaetoglobosins A, D and J were placed in group 2. Group 3 contained aspochalasins B, D and cytochalasin A, and group 4 included chaetoglobosins E and F. The structure and activity relationships of these drugs are also discussed.
Thymus Dependence of Connective Tissue Mast Cells: A Quantitative Cytofluorometric Study of the Growth of Peritoneal Mast Cells in Normal and Athymic Rats
Authors: Aldenborg Frank , Enerbäck Lennart
Published: August 2009

The normal growth of peritoneal mast cells was studied in athymic and heterozygote rats over the period of 5–29 weeks of age. The total peritoneal mast cell mass and the mass of the granular components was calculated from mast cell numbers and their content of protein, heparin and 5-hydroxytryptamine. The growth process was analyzed by allometric log-log plots of mast cell quantities versus body weight and linear regressions. The mast cell growth in both groups of rats conformed to the allometric principle and was strictly proportional to the growth of the body as a whole. Two major differences between athymic and heterozygote rats were observed. The total peritoneal mast cell mass and the mass of its components was initially higher in the athymic rats, but the growth rate of the mast cells was lower. We suggest that the thymus may regulate the mast cells by an inhibitory factor acting on the bone marrow stem cell or circulating precursor level. The lower growth rate of the athymic rats may be due to the absence of a second, stimulatory thymic factor acting on the tissue precursor level, or to a tissue homeostatic mechanism triggered by the large initial mast cell mass and unrelated to the thymus.
Induction of a Passive Cutaneous Anaphylaxis Inhibitory Factor in Mice
Authors: Mecheri S. , Peltre G. , David B.
Published: August 2009

The administration of a purified protein from Dactylis glomerata pollen, named Dactylis inhibitory protein (DIP), to Balb/C mice results in the production of a heat-resistant seric factor that blocks the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) reaction in rat skin. This PCA inhibitory factor (PCA-IF) was purified following different purification procedures and analyzed in sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel. Amongst the array of bands detected it was possible to ascribe the inhibitory activity to a protein band of 76,000 daltons but only when it was associated either with another protein band of 69,000 daltons (obtained after a one-step purification procedure) or two other protein bands of 55,000 and 26,000 daltons (obtained after a three-step purification procedure). The inhibitory activity of the PCA-IF is present at a low level in normal Balb/C mice sera and is enhanced after DIP treatment of the mice.
Lymphocyte Transformation Induced by Autologous Cells
Authors: Bovbjerg D.H. , Wang V.A. , Schwab R. , Lebenger K.S. , Siskind G.W. , Weksler M.E.
Published: August 2009

The autologous mixed lymphocyte reaction (AMLR) is impaired in patients with a number of diseases associated with abnormal immunoregulation. Since allergic disorders are also associated with abnormal immunoregulation, we assessed the AMLR in individuals with a history of ragweed hayfever. Lymphocytes from allergic subjects had a lower AMLR than nonallergic controls by rank order analysis. These results support the association of abnormal in vivo immunoregulation with reduced AMLR.
Immunologic Responses to Intravenous Streptokinase in Dogs
Authors: Dykewicz Mark S. , McGrath Kris G. , Harris Kathleen E. , Patterson Roy
Published: August 2009

Streptokinase is used worldwide as a thrombolytic agent. Allergic reactions to streptokinase have been reported, but the immunologic mechanisms have not been well characterized. To develop a canine model of streptokinase immune responses analogous to human responses, four dogs received intravenous streptokinase infusions. Significant rises in IgG, IgA and IgM antibody levels occurred after streptokinase administration in three of four dogs; a fourth dog developed significant increases in IgG and IgA antibody levels. Two dogs developed immediate-type cutaneous hypersensitivity to streptokinase. One dog developed subacute dermatitis with eosinophilic infiltrates which was possibly a manifestation of an allergic reaction to streptokinase.
Polyclonal B Cell Activators Inhibit Contact Sensitivity to Oxazolone in Mice by Potentiating the Production of Anti-Hapten Antibodies that Induce T Suppressor Lymphocytes Acting through the Release of Soluble Factors
Authors: Campa M. , De Libero G. , Benedettini G. , Mori L. , Angioni M.R. , Marelli P. , Falcone G.
Published: August 2009

Polyclonal B cell activators (PBAs) such as purified protein derivative, lipopolysaccharide, Staphylococcus aureus strain Cowan I (StaCwI), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa inhibit contact sensitivity to oxazolone in mice when given 24 h before sensitization. This suppression, transferable from immunodepressed animals to oxazolone-sensitized recipients with immune serum, has been shown to be due to the early appearance of anti-hapten antibodies. These antibodies elicit T suppressor cells which release soluble factor(s) capable of inhibiting the passive transfer of contact sensitivity.
Suppression of the Allergic Contact Reaction in The Guinea Pig by Cyclosporin A
Authors: Anderson Chris , Groth Ove
Published: August 2009

In a study of the effects of cyclosporin A on the allergic contact reaction to oxazolone in the guinea pig, a pronounced ability to suppress redness and edema and the dermal inflammatory cell infiltrate was demonstrated. At the generally recommended (human) organ transplantation immunosuppression dosage (20 mg/kg), a single dose gave no certain effect, but when repeated daily for 3 days, some suppression of the reaction was seen. A single 80 mg/kg dose produced marked suppression of erythema and edema and all components of the dermal cellular infiltrate. This effect was still evident, though less marked, 3 days after administration. The 80 mg/kg dose had no effect on the toxic contact reaction to croton oil. Of the agents we have previously tested (cyclophosphamide, methotrexate and azathioprine) with this model, cyclosporin A has by far the most marked capacity to suppress the allergic (cell-mediated) contact reaction, via a mechanism which would appear to involve immunomodulation rather than mere nonspecific anti-inflammatory effects.
Adhesion of Guinea Pig Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes to Autologous Aortic Strips: Influence of Chemotactic Factors and of Pharmacological Agents which Affect Arachidonic Acid Metabolism
Authors: Fricke D. , Damerau B. , Vogt W.
Published: August 2009

In superfusion experiments, the complement peptide C5a-desArg and the leukotriene B4 (LTB4) enhanced adhesion of guinea pig polymorphonuclear leukocytes to autologous aortic strips (threshold at about 10––8M, maximal effects at 10––7M). C5a-desArg acted primarily by stimulation of the leukocytes: pretreatment of them with the peptide abolished their response by deactivation, whereas pretreatment of the endothelium did not affect adhesion. However, the endothelium obviously cooperated in the response: enhanced adhesion was obtained only when the leukocytes were exposed to C5a-desArg while in contact with the endothelium. The cooperation is most probably due to release of arachidonic acid from endothelium and formation of lip-oxygenase products (LTB4?) therefrom by the stimulated leukocytes. Incubation of leukocytes with nordihydroguaiaretic acid or with relatively high concentrations of indomethacin – both known to inhibit lipoxygenases -lowered the effect of C5a-desArg, but not that of LTB4 nor the spontaneous adhesion. On the other hand, the stable prostacyclin analogue ZK 36 374 decreased C5a-desArg-induced adhesion, while pretreatment of the aortic strips with indomethacin increased it. These results suggest that endogenous prostacyclin may also play a role in this system by reducing adhesion.
Antigenic Competition in IgE, IgG1 and IgG2 Antibody Production in the Mouse
Authors: Macedo Soares Maria Fernanda , de Macedo Mahasti S. , Mota I.
Published: August 2009

A comparative study of the effects of antigenic competition on the IgE, IgG1 and IgG2 antibody production was performed in mice immunized with two unrelated antigens. These antigens were injected as a mixture or in different sites. In addition, the groups of mice received one or three boosters of one or both antigens. The passive cutaneous anaphylaxis titres obtained in several bleedings showed a suppression of IgG1 and IgG2 antibody responses only in the groups injected with the two antigens in the same site, independently of antigenic boosters. The IgE antibody response was diminished when the antigens were given in a mixture, but this effect disappeared after a second booster. In contrast, groups injected with antigens separately started to show a suppressed response only at this time.
Antagonism of Antigen-Induced Contraction of Isolated Guinea-Pig Trachea by 5-Lipoxygenase Inhibitors
Authors: Hand James M. , Schwalm Susan F. , Lewis Alan J.
Published: August 2009

Tracheal strips were obtained from guinea pigs actively sensitized to chicken ovaibumin (OA). OA-induced contractile responses, obtained by cumulative log addition, were found to be comparable both temporally and in magnitude with responses obtained by single addition of OA. The concentration-response curve obtained by cumulative addition of OA was partially inhibited by pretreatment of tissues with chlorpheniramine. On tracheal spirals treated with chlorpheniramine, indomethacin enhanced OA-induced contractile responses. In the presence of chlorpheniramine and indomethacin, pretreatment with one of the reference 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors (ETYA, NDGA, phenidone or BW-755C) both reduced the maximum contractile response and produced a rightward shift of the OA concentration-response curve. The data suggest that cumulative log addition of OA, on the indomethacin- and chlorpheniramine-treated guinea-pig trachea, is a useful model for evaluating compounds active as either inhibitors of 5-lipoxygenase or antagonists of the products of this pathway.
In vitro Appearance of Large Human Histamine-Containing Basophilic Cells
Authors: Ahlstedt S. , Hammarström I. , Into-Malmberg M.-B. , Björkstén° B. , Denburg J.
Published: August 2009

The appearance of large human basophilic cells containing histamine was followed to reflect cell maturation in cultures of peripheral blood leukocytes. Aliquots were taken on day 0 and after 7, 9–10 and 14 days in culture, and the basophilic cell numbers were determined in 200 μl cytospin specimens stained with Wright’s stain. The number of small basophils initially present declined during the culture period. The number of spontaneously appearing large basophilic cells varied among the cultures from different individuals and was slightly, though not significantly, higher in atopic individuals than in normals. In cultures of cells from atopic individuals, the number of large basophilic cells was reproducibly increased by the addition of appropriate allergen to the cultures. In cultures of cells from normal individuals, the number was increased two-to six-fold by adding conditioned medium (CM), either from 3-day cultures of cells from atopic individuals stimulated with allergen or with CM from the Mo T cell leukemic line. The addition of mitomycin C decreased the number of large basophilic cells and cycloheximide abrogated their appearance.
Demonstration of Close Physicochemical Similarity and Partial Immunochemical Identity between the Major Allergen, Dp42, of the House Dust Mite, D. pteronyssinus and Corresponding Antigens of D. farinae (Of 6) and D. microceras (Dm6)
Authors: Lind Peter
Published: August 2009

House dust mite antigens Df6 and Dm6, corresponding to Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dp) antigen 42 (= PI), were purified from cultures of Dermatophagoides farinae (Df) and Dermatophagoides microceras (Dm) using hydrophobic interaction chromatography in combination with gel filtration or acetone precipitation. Purified antigens from the three mite species (Dp42, Df6 and Dm6) were similar regarding molecular weight by gel filtration (D. pteronyssinus: 17,000, D. farinae: 17,000 and D. microceras: 18,500) and by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (D. pteronyssinus: 30,000, D. farinae: 28,000 and D. microceras: 29,000). Widely spaced isoelectric points were observed for the antigens of all three species by sucrose gradient isoelectric focusing: (D. pteronyssinus: 4.5 and 6.3, D. farinae: 4.9 and 6.9 and D. microceras: 4.9 and 6.5). Species-specific rabbit antibodies were easily detected for all three species in crossed-line immunoelectrophoresis using mixtures of the two heterologous antigens in the intermediate gel. Antibody specificity for an epitope, common to D. farinae and D. microceras, but not shared by D. pteronyssinus, was further demonstrated. Potent rabbit antibody reagents with species specificity were produced by column immunoabsorption. Despite a probable common molecular structure and origin, the antigens of the three species exhibited gross differences in their immunochemical reactions with rabbit antibodies.
Antibody Responses of Mice to Intragastric and Parenterally Administered Aeroallergens
Authors: Henderson D.C. , Moran D.M.
Published: August 2009

Intragastric administration of aeroallergens (pollen extract)-primed mice to produce transient serum IgE antibody responses following subsequent parenteral stimulation while the same initial dose of extract, given parenterally, did not have this effect. In previously immunized animals, intragastric administration of pollen extract was found to enhance systemic antibody production. These observations indicate that exposure of gut-associated lymphoid tissue to aeroallergens can have a profound effect on subsequent reaginic antibody production. This procedure provides a useful model for studying IgE responses to allergens without the complication of an initial injection with adjuvant. A combination of parenteral immunization with oral administration may therefore offer a convenient immunotherapeutic manoeuvre for patients with seasonal rhinitis/asthma.
Persistence of Hemoglobin Allergenicity and Antigenicity during Metamorphosis of Chironomidae (Insecta: Diptera)
Authors: Prelicz H. , Baur X. , Dewair M. , Tichy H. , Kay A.B. , Tee R. , Cranston P.S.
Published: August 2009

Chironomid hemoglobins are potent allergens. The allergenic and antigenic activities of these hemoglobins are studied with the help of RAST, RAST inhibition and double immunodiffusion. Human as well as rabbit antisera were used. It was shown that hemoglobins are the main antigenic/allergenic components in extracts of Camptochironomus tentans larvae. Furthermore, immunological cross-reactivity among larvae, pupae and adult midges of this species are shown to be due to the existence of hemoglobin antigenic determinants in all developmental stages of this insect.
Effect of Platelet-Activating Factor (PAF) on Human Cardiac Muscle
Authors: Alloatti G. , Montrucchio G. , Mariano F. , Tetta C. , De Paulis R. , Morea M. , Emanuelli G. , Camussi G.
Published: August 2009

The effect of platelet activating factor (PAF) on three mechanical [maximal mechanical tension (Pmax); time to peak tension; maximal rate of rise of tension (+dP/dt)] and four electrical [action potential duration (APD); resting membrane potential; overshoot; maximum rate of depolarization] parameters of cardiac function was studied on fragments of isolated human cardiac papillary muscle. 20 specimens of small tissue fragments excised from the left ventricle by open heart surgery were challenged with various doses of synthetic PAF (10––10––10––6M). PAF, but not its biologically inactive 2-lyso-derivative (lyso-PAF), induced a biphasic dose-dependent effect, characterized by a transient positive effect on inotropism (increased Pmax, + dP/dt) and of APD, followed by a marked, prolonged negative effect on both inotropism (decreased Pmax, time to peak tension, + dP/dt) and APD. No changes in resting membrane potential, overshoot and maximum rate of depolarization were detected after PAF challenge. Propranolol (2 × 10––7M) completely prevented the positive inotropic effect suggesting a stimulation of β-receptors, possibly exerted by endogenous catecholamines. In-domethacin (1 × 10––4M) did not modify the initial positive effect, but markedly reduced the subsequent negative effect induced by PAF on inotropism. These findings are consistent with the interpretation that the effect of PAF on the inotropism is related to liberation of cyclooxygenase-derived metabolites.
C1 Activation, with C1q in Excess of Functional C1 in Synovial Fluid from Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Sjöholm A.G. , Berglund K. , Johnson U. , Laurell A.-B. , Sturfelt G.
Published: August 2009

Free C1q, in functionally active form was present in increased amounts in the synovial fluid of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The presence of free C1q was associated with low concentrations of hemolytic C1, low C4 and raised amounts of C3dg/d fragments in the synovial fluid. The findings suggested intra-articular C1 activation with dissociation of C1 into free C1q and complexes containing CĪr, CĪs, and C1 inactivator. However, the immunochemical properties of synovial fluid CĪr-CĪs-CĪ inactivator complexes appeared to differ from those of the complexes formed in serum, which hampered quantification with the assay used. Control patients with osteoarthritis or spondylarthritic syndromes did not show evidence of intra-articular complement activation, even though 1 patient with Reiter’s disease had unexplained low concentrations of synovial fluid C4 and C3. The concentrations of circulating complement components were largely normal in the patients. Slightly increased concentrations of free C1q and CĪr-CĪs-CĪ inactivator complexes in serum and C3dg/d fragments in EDTA plasma were observed, particularly in the patients with rheumatoid arthritis.