bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cadherin expression pattern in melanocytic tumors more likely depends on the melanocyte environment than on tumor cell progression
Authors: Krengel Sven , Grotelüschen F. , Bartsch S. , Tronnier M. 
Published: December 2003

Background:  Adhesion molecules have been assigned an important role in melanocytic tumor progression. By the loss of E‐cadherin, melanocytes might escape the control of neighbouring keratinocytes. Although in vitro data support this hypothesis, there are yet no conclusive immunohistochemical results on cadherin expression in melanocytic tumors.Objective:  To gain detailed insight in the expression of cadherins and their cytoplasmic binding partners, the catenins, in various types of benign and malignant melanocytic neoplasms.Methods:  Immunohistochemical analysis of the expression of E‐, P‐, and N‐cadherin and α‐, β‐, and γ‐catenin in compound and dermal nevi, Spitz nevi, blue nevi, ultraviolet B (UVB)‐irradiated nevi, and malignant melanomas of various tumor thickness.Results:  In both nevi and melanomas, E‐cadherin expression in melanocytic cells decreased, following a gradient from junctional to deeper dermal localization. The pattern of E‐cadherin expression was more heterogeneous in melanomas than in nevi. In some melanomas, E‐cadherin was only weakly positive in the epidermal tumor cells. P‐cadherin expression was similar to that of E‐cadherin. N‐cadherin expression in melanocytic lesions was a rare finding, however, a small percentage of melanomas showed expression in some cell nests. Some Spitz nevi exhibited strong N‐cadherin immunoreactivity. Most melanocytic cells were α‐ and β‐catenin‐positive and γ‐catenin‐negative. UVB irradiation did not influence the expression of cadherins and catenins in melanocytic nevi in vivo.Conclusions:  It is presumed that the gradual loss of E‐cadherin expression represents a reaction of melanocytic cells to altered conditions in the dermal environment, e.g. lack of contact to keratinocytes, or new contact with dermal extracellular matrix molecules, respectively. Melanoma cells apparently are less dependent on these environmental factors and, therefore, show a more heterogeneous expression pattern. This might be of importance for the adaptation of the tumor cells to local requirements. However, in view of our results, a causative role of (loss of ) E‐cadherin or (gain of ) N‐cadherin for melanocytic tumor progression still remains to be proven.
Histological characterization of regression in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome‐related Kaposi's sarcoma
Authors: Pantanowitz Liron , Dezube Bruce J. , Pinkus Geraldine S. , Tahan Steven R. 
Published: December 2003

Background:  Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) is an angioproliferative lesion that may regress or progress. Progression is related to spindle cell proliferation and the expression of human herpes virus‐8 latency genes, including latent nuclear antigen‐1 (LNA‐1), cyclin‐D1, and bcl‐2. KS regression has not been well characterized histologically. Therefore, this study was undertaken to characterize the histopathology of pharmacologically induced regressed cutaneous KS.Methods:  Skin punch biopsies from eight patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)‐related KS, that regressed following chemotherapy with paclitaxel or the angiogenesis inhibitor Col‐3, were investigated by light microscopy. Comparative immunophenotyping on pre‐ and post‐treatment specimens for CD31, LNA‐1, cyclin‐D1, bcl‐2, and CD117 (c‐kit) was performed.Results:  Clinical and histologic features of regression were similar for paclitaxel and Col‐3 treatment. On clinical examination, lesions flattened, became smaller, and lost their purple‐red appearance, resulting in an orange‐brown macule. Histological regression was divided into partial (n = 3) and complete (n = 5) regression. Partially regressed lesions had a significant reduction of spindle cells in the dermal interstitium, with residual spindle cells arranged around superficial and mid‐dermal capillaries. Complete regression was characterized by an absence of detectable spindle cells, with a slight increase in capillaries of the superficial plexus. All regressed samples exhibited a prominent, superficial, perivascular, lymphocytic infiltrate and abundant dermal hemosiderin‐laden macrophages. This clinicopathologic picture resembled the findings of pigmented purpura. CD31 staining correlated with the reduction of spindle cells. Regression was accompanied by a quantitative and qualitative decrease in LNA‐1 and cyclin‐D1 immunoreactivity, but no change in bcl‐2 or c‐kit expression.Conclusions:  Pharmacologically induced regression of AIDS‐related cutaneous KS is characterized by a complete loss or decrease of spindle cells, increased lymphocytes, and prominent dermal siderophage deposition. Without any prior knowledge of the history of KS regression following therapy, regressed KS lesions may be misdiagnosed clinically and histologically as pigmented purpuric dermatitis.
Possible role of Malassezia furfur in psoriasis: modulation of TGF‐β1, integrin, and HSP70 expression in human keratinocytes and in the skin of psoriasis‐affected patients
Authors: Baroni Adone , Paoletti Iole , Ruocco Eleonora , Agozzino Marina , Tufano Maria Antonietta , Donnarumma Giovanna 
Published: December 2003

Background:  Psoriasis is a disease characterized by an abnormal pattern of keratinocyte growth and differentiation. Malassezia furfur forms part of the normal human skin flora. It may also be involved in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. To define the role of M. furfur in the pathogenesis of psoriasis, we investigated how M. furfur regulates molecules involved in cell migration and proliferation. The experiments were performed using human keratinocytes and skin biopsies from M. furfur‐positive and ‐negative psoriasis‐affected patients. In addition, we examined the signal transduction mechanisms involved.Materials and methods:  Western blot analysis was performed on human keratinocytes lysates treated or untreated with M. furfur and on biopsies from healthy and psoriasis patients. Signal transduction mechanisms involved were evaluated by electrophoretic mobility shift assay using the AP‐1 inhibitor curcumin.Results:  We found that M. furfur up‐regulates transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1), integrin chain, and HSP70 expression in human keratinocytes via AP‐1‐dependent mechanism. In the biopsies of M. furfur‐positive psoriasis‐affected patients, an increase in TGF‐β1, integrin chains, and HSP70 expression was found.Conclusion:  Our data suggest that M. furfur can induce the overproduction of molecules involved in cell migration and hyperproliferation, thereby favoring the exacerbation of psoriasis.
Proximal‐type epithelioid sarcoma: case report and result of comparative genomic hybridization
Authors: Lee Mi‐Woo , Jee Kowan‐Ja , Ro Jae‐Yoon , Lee Deuk‐Pyo , Choi Jee‐Ho , Moon Kee‐Chan , Koh Jai‐Kyoung 
Published: December 2003

Background:  Epithelioid sarcoma is a rare mesenchymal neoplasm. Recently, a more aggressive, so‐called ‘proximal type’ epithelioid sarcoma has been described.Clinical case:  A 40‐year‐old‐woman presented with 5 × 4 cm, erythematous, indurated, non‐movable, painful mass on the pubic area. Histopathology demonstrated diffuse tumor‐cell infiltration into the subcutaneous and fascia, which was consisted of prominent epithelioid cells and scattered rhabdoid cells. A multinodular growth pattern or granulomatous appearance with central necrosis was not observed. The tumor cells showed positive reactions for vimentin, cytokeratin (AE1/AE3), and CD34. Despite the surgery, left inguinal mass with lymphadenopathy occurred one month later. We also carried out comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) with tumor cells. CGH revealed chromosomal gain of 5q32‐qter, 12q24‐qter, and 22q.Conclusion:  We report a case of proximal‐type of epithelioid sarcoma, which showed the chromosomal gains of 5q32‐qter, 12q24‐qter, and 22q by CGH.
Immunohistochemical study of chronological and photo‐induced aging skins using the antibody raised against D‐aspartyl residue‐containing peptide
Authors: Miura Yoshinori , Fujimoto Norihiro , Komatsu Takehiko , Tajima Shingo , Kawada Akira , Saito Takeshi , Fujii Noriko 
Published: December 2003

Background:  Biologically uncommon d‐aspartyl residues have been reported in the elderly tissues such as tooth, eye lens, aorta, and brain. We have previously prepared the antibody against d‐aspartyl residue‐containing peptide and found that it reacted with elastotic material of actinic elastosis.Methods:  Immunoreactivity of the normal skins obtained from sun‐exposed and sun‐protected skins of varied ages with this antibody was studied.Results:  In the sun‐exposed skins, the antibody showed negative reaction with the skin specimens of young donors, whereas it reacted with elastotic materials of actinic elastosis of the elderly. In the sun‐protected skins, the antibody recognized elastic fiber‐like structures and inner layer of vessels found from the mid to lower dermis of old donors but showed no positive reaction to skin specimens of young donors.Conclusions:  The results suggest that the antibody is a potent marker for chronological and ultraviolet (UV)‐induced skin aging. Unusual eosinophilic bodies seen in the superficial dermis in the sun‐exposed area of the elderly skins were also immunoreactive with the antibody, suggesting that the eosinophilic bodies resulted from UV‐induced skin damage.
Genome‐wide linkage and QTL mapping in porcine F2 families generated from Pietrain, Meishan and Wild Boar crosses
Authors: Geldermann H. , Müller E. , Moser G. , Reiner G. , Bartenschlager H. , Cepica S. , Stratil A. , Kuryl J. , Moran C. , Davoli R. , Brunsch C. 
Published: December 2003

SummaryThree informative pig F2 families based on European Wild Boar (W), Meishan (M) and Pietrain (P) crosses have been used for genome‐wide linkage and quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis. Altogether 129 microsatellites, 56 type I loci and 46 trait definitions (specific to growth, fattening, fat deposition, muscling, meat quality, stress resistance and body conformation) were included in the study. In the linkage maps of M × P, W × P and W × M families, average spacing of markers were 18.4, 19.7 and 18.8 cM, the numbers of informative meioses were 582, 534 and 625, and the total lengths of autosomes measured were 27.3, 26.0 and 26.2 Morgan units, respectively. Maternal maps were on average 1.3 times longer than paternal maps. QTLs contributing more than 3% of F2 phenotypic variance could be identified at p < 0.05 chromosome‐wide level. Differences in the numbers and positions of QTLs were observed between families. Genome‐wide significant QTL effects were mapped for growth and fattening traits on eight chromosomes (1, 2, 4, 13, 14, 17, 18 and X), for fat deposition traits on seven chromosomes (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 and X), for muscling traits on 11 chromosomes (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 12, 14, 15 and X), for meat quality and stress resistance traits on seven chromosomes (2, 3, 6, 13, 16, 18 and X), and QTLs for body‐conformation traits were detected on 14 chromosomes. Closely correlated traits showed similar QTL profiles within families. Major QTL effects for meat quality and stress resistance traits were found on SSC6 in the interval RYR1‐A1BG in the W × P and M × P families, and could be attributed to segregation of the RYR1 allele T derived from Pietrain, whereas no effect in the corresponding SSC6 interval was found in family W × M, where Wild Boar and Meishan both contributed the RYR1 allele C. QTL positions were mostly similar in two of the three families for body conformation traits and for growth, fattening, fat deposition and muscling traits, especially on SSC4 (interval SW1073‐NGFB). QTLs with large effects were also mapped on SSC7 in the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) (interval CYP21A2‐S0102) and affected body length, weight of head and many other traits. The identification of DNA variants in genes causative for the QTLs requires further fine mapping of QTL intervals and a positional cloning. However, for these subsequent steps, the genome‐wide QTL mapping in F2 families represents an essential starting point and is therefore significant for animal breeding.
Use of microsatellites for genetic variation and inbreeding analysis in Sarda sheep flocks of central Italy
Authors: Pariset L. , Savarese M. C. , Cappuccio I. , Valentini A. 
Published: December 2003

SummaryA set of 11 polymorphic microsatellites has been used to assess the distribution of genetic variability in 17 flocks of the Sarda sheep breed in the Viterbo province, located in central Italy. The suitability of samples size and number of loci analysed were tested using a bootstrap procedure. The data obtained were used to estimate the genetic diversity within and among flocks, and to test the presence of inbreeding within flocks. To study the genetic relationship among flocks, a principal component analysis based on Nei standard distances was performed. The results of genetic analysis show a significant excess of homozygotes in some of the flocks. The use of genetic data for maximum likelihood tests of assignment is investigated in order to establish suitable breeding policies. This research represents a case study for the development of mating strategies suitable for incrementing genetic variability within flocks that can be applied in other domestic species showing similar breeding problems (goat, buffalo and small populations of cattle).
Development of a multigenic oligoligation assay test in relation to meat and carcass traits in cattle
Authors: Haegeman A. , Van Zeveren A. , Peelman L. J. 
Published: December 2003

SummarySimultaneous with the increased interest in the use of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genetic studies (such as association studies), the demand for high‐throughput SNP genotyping has risen. In order to accommodate the high throughput SNP analysis, the oligoligation assay (OLA) technique was adapted to genotype simultaneously 11 mutations in seven different candidate genes, related to meat and carcass traits in cattle. The accuracy of the multigenic test was determined by comparing the OLA data with previously obtained restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) genotypes. Both data sets were 100% identical. The accuracy of the multigenic test coupled with the high throughput, relatively low cost (once optimized) and simplicity of test ensures that this test can be routinely used in each laboratory. Furthermore, the flexibility of this test means that genes can be replaced or that new ones can be added. Although initially this multigenic test was designed as a basic tool for association studies, it can be easily used as a diagnostic tool. The obtained genotype information can be integrated in breeding schemes in order to genetically enhance the herd.
Characterisation of a pine MYB that regulates lignification
Authors: Patzlaff Astrid , McInnis Stephanie , Courtenay Adrian , Surman Christine , Newman Lisa J. , Smith Caroline , Bevan Michael W. , Mansfield Shawn , Whetten Ross W. , Sederoff Ronald R. , Campbell Malcolm M. 
Published: December 2003

SummaryA member of the R2R3‐MYB family of transcription factors was cloned from a cDNA library constructed from RNA isolated from differentiating pine xylem. This MYB, Pinus taeda MYB4 (PtMYB4), is expressed in cells undergoing lignification, as revealed by in situ RT‐PCR. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs) showed that recombinant PtMYB4 protein is able to bind to DNA motifs known as AC elements. AC elements are ubiquitous in the promoters of genes encoding lignin biosynthetic enzymes. Transcriptional activation assays using yeast showed that PtMYB4 could activate transcription in an AC‐element‐dependent fashion. Overexpression of PtMYB4 in transgenic tobacco plants altered the accumulation of transcripts corresponding to genes encoding lignin biosynthetic enzymes. Lignin deposition increased in transgenic tobacco plants that overexpressed PtMYB4, and extended to cell types that do not normally lignify. Taken together, these findings are consistent with the hypothesis that PtMYB4 is sufficient to induce lignification, and that it may play this role during wood formation in pine.
Identification of novel cis‐acting elements, IDE1 and IDE2, of the barley IDS2 gene promoter conferring iron‐deficiency‐inducible, root‐specific expression in heterogeneous tobacco plants
Authors: Kobayashi Takanori , Nakayama Yuko , Itai Reiko Nakanishi , Nakanishi Hiromi , Yoshihara Toshihiro , Mori Satoshi , Nishizawa Naoko K. 
Published: December 2003

SummaryThe molecular mechanisms of plant responses to iron (Fe) deficiency remain largely unknown. To identify the cis‐acting elements responsible for Fe‐deficiency‐inducible expression in higher plants, the barley IDS2 (iron deficiency specific clone no. 2) gene promoter was analyzed using a transgenic tobacco system. Deletion analysis revealed that the sequence between −272 and −91 from the translational start site (−272/−91) was both sufficient and necessary for specific expression in tobacco roots. Further deletion and linker‐scanning analysis of this region clearly identified two cis‐acting elements: iron‐deficiency‐responsive element 1 (IDE1) at −153/−136 (ATCAAGCATGCTTCTTGC) and IDE2 at −262/−236 (TTGAACGGCAAGTTTCACGCTGTCACT). The co‐existence of IDE1 and IDE2 was essential for specific expression when the −46/+8 region (relative to the transcriptional start site) of the CaMV 35S promoter was used as a minimal promoter. Expression occurred mainly in the root pericycle, endodermis, and cortex. When the −90/+8 region of the CaMV 35S promoter was fused, the −272/−227 region, which consists of IDE2 and an additional 19 bp, could drive Fe‐deficiency‐inducible expression without IDE1 throughout almost the entire root. The principal modules of IDE1 and IDE2 were homologous. Sequences homologous to IDE1 were also found in many other Fe‐deficiency‐inducible promoters, including: nicotianamine aminotransferase (HvNAAT)‐A, HvNAAT‐B, nicotianamine synthase (HvNAS1), HvIDS3, OsNAS1, OsNAS2, OsIRT1, AtIRT1, and AtFRO2, suggesting the conservation of cis‐acting elements in various genes and species. The identification of novel cis‐acting elements, IDE1 and IDE2, will provide powerful tools to clarify the molecular mechanisms regulating Fe homeostasis in higher plants.
Spermine signalling in tobacco: activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases by spermine is mediated through mitochondrial dysfunction
Authors: Takahashi Yoshihiro , Berberich Thomas , Miyazaki Atsushi , Seo Shigemi , Ohashi Yuko , Kusano Tomonobu 
Published: December 2003

SummaryPolyamines (PAs) play important roles in cell proliferation, growth and environmental stress responses of all living organisms. In this study, we examine whether these compounds act as signal mediators. Spermine (Spm) specifically activated protein kinases of tobacco leaves, which were identified as salicylic acid (SA)‐induced protein kinase (SIPK) and wound‐induced protein kinase (WIPK), using specific antibodies. Upon Spm treatment, upregulation of WIPK, but not SIPK, was observed. Spm‐induced mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs) activation and WIPK upregulation were prevented upon pre‐treatment with antioxidants and Ca2+ channel blockers. Additionally, Spm specifically stimulated expression of the alternative oxidase (AOX) gene, which was disrupted by these antioxidants and Ca2+ channel blockers. Bongkrekic acid (BK), an inhibitor of the opening of mitochondrial permeability transition (PT) pores, suppressed MAPKs activation and accumulation of WIPK and AOX mRNA. Our data collectively suggest that Spm causes mitochondrial dysfunction via a signalling pathway in which reactive oxygen species and Ca2+ influx are involved. As a result, the phosphorylation activities of the two MAPK enzymes SIPK and WIPK are stimulated.
Stress‐responsive zinc finger gene ZPT2‐3 plays a role in drought tolerance in petunia
Authors: Sugano Shoji , Kaminaka Hironori , Rybka Zbigniew , Catala Rafael , Salinas Julio , Matsui Kyoko , Ohme‐Takagi Masaru , Takatsuji Hiroshi 
Published: December 2003

SummaryThe petunia gene, ZPT2‐3, encodes a Cys2/His2‐type zinc finger protein. Here, we describe the expression of ZPT2‐3 in response to various stresses and the effects of ZPT2‐3 overexpression in transgenic petunia. Mechanical wounding induced accumulation of ZPT2‐3 transcript, and the activity of ZPT2‐3::luciferase was conferred by the 1668‐bp ZPT2‐3 upstream sequence, both locally and systemically. This induction was mediated by a jasmonic acid (JA)‐dependent and ethylene‐independent pathway. ZPT2‐3 expression was also induced by cold, drought, and heavy metal treatments. The same ZPT2‐3 promoter sequence showed similar responsiveness to wounding, cold, drought, and JA treatments in Arabidopsis when investigated in a β‐glucuronidase (GUS) reporter gene, indicating conservation of similar signaling pathways between the two plant species. ZPT2‐3 functioned as an active repressor in a transient assay using Arabidopsis leaves. Constitutive overexpression of ZPT2‐3 in transgenic petunia plants increased tolerance to dehydration. These results demonstrate the involvement of ZPT2‐3 in plant response to various stresses, and suggest its potential utility to improve drought tolerance.
Molecular cloning and characterization of a cDNA encoding ent‐cassa‐12,15‐diene synthase, a putative diterpenoid phytoalexin biosynthetic enzyme, from suspension‐cultured rice cells treated with a chitin elicitor
Authors: Cho Eun‐Min , Okada Atsushi , Kenmoku Hiromichi , Otomo Kazuko , Toyomasu Tomonobu , Mitsuhashi Wataru , Sassa Takeshi , Yajima Arata , Yabuta Goro , Mori Kenji , Oikawa Hideaki , Toshima Hiroaki , Shibuya Naoto , Nojiri Hideaki , Omori Toshio , Nishiyama Makoto , Yamane Hisakazu 
Published: December 2003

SummaryWe have isolated and characterized a cDNA encoding a novel diterpene cyclase, OsDTC1, from suspension‐cultured rice cells treated with a chitin elicitor. OsDTC1 functions as ent‐cassa‐12,15‐diene synthase, which is considered to play a key role in the biosynthesis of (−)‐phytocassanes recently isolated as rice diterpenoid phytoalexins. The expression of OsDTC1 mRNA was also confirmed in ultraviolet (UV)‐irradiated rice leaves. In addition, we identified ent‐cassa‐12,15‐diene, a putative diterpene hydrocarbon precursor of (−)‐phytocassanes, as an endogenous compound in the chitin‐elicited suspension‐cultured rice cells and the UV‐irradiated rice leaves. The OsDTC1 cDNA isolated here will be a useful tool to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of the biosyntheis of (−)‐phytocassanes in rice.