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Serum Proteins (serum + protein)
Kinds of Serum Proteins Terms modified by Serum Proteins Selected AbstractsDifferential Capture of Serum Proteins for Expression Profiling and Biomarker Discovery in Pre- and Posttreatment Head and Neck Cancer Samples,THE LARYNGOSCOPE, Issue 1 2008Gary L. Freed MD Abstract Introduction: A long-term goal of our group is to develop proteomic-based approaches to the detection and use of protein biomarkers for improvement in diagnosis, prognosis, and tailoring of treatment for head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC). We have previously demonstrated that protein expression profiling of serum can identify multiple protein biomarker events that can serve as molecular fingerprints for the assessment of HNSCC disease state and prognosis. Methods: An automated Bruker Daltonics (Billerica, MA) ClinProt matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometer was used. Magnetic chemical affinity beads were used to differentially capture serum proteins prior to MALDI-TOF analysis. The resulting spectra were analyzed using postprocessing software and a pattern recognition genetic algorithm (ClinProt 2.0). An HNSCC cohort of 48 sera samples from 24 patients consisting of matched pretreatment and 6 to 12 month posttreatment samples was used for further analysis. Low-mass differentially expressed peptides were identified using MALDI-TOF/TOF. Results: In the working mass range of 1,000 to 10,000 m/z, approximately 200 peaks were resolved for ionic bead capture approaches. For spectra generated from weak cation bead capture, a k-nearest neighbor genetic algorithm was able to correctly classify 94% normal from pretreatment HNSCC samples, 80% of pretreatment from posttreatment samples, and 87% of normal from posttreatment samples. These peptides were then analyzed by MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectometry for sequence identification directly from serum processed with the same magnetic bead chemistry or alternatively after gel electrophoresis separation of the captured proteins. We were able to compare this with similar studies using surface-enhanced laser desorption ionization (SELDI)-TOF to show this method as a valid tool for this process with some improvement in the identification of our groups. Conclusions: This initial study using new high-resolution MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry coupled with bead fractionation is suitable for automated protein profiling and has the capability to simultaneously identify potential biomarker proteins for HNSCC. In addition, we were able to show improvement with the MALDI-TOF in identifying groups with HNSCC when compared with our prior data using SELDI-TOF. Using this MALDI-TOF technology as a discovery platform, we anticipate generating biomarker panels for use in more accurate prediction of prognosis and treatment efficacies for HNSCC. [source] Serum protein profiling by solid phase extraction and mass spectrometry: A future diagnostics tool?PROTEINS: STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND BIOINFORMATICS, Issue 6 2009Anne K. Callesen Abstract Serum protein profiling by MS is a promising method for early detection of disease. Important characteristics for serum protein profiling are preanalytical factors, analytical reproducibility and high throughput. Problems related to preanalytical factors can be overcome by using standardized and rigorous sample collection and sample handling protocols. The sensitivity of the MS analysis relies on the quality of the sample; consequently, the blood sample preparation step is crucial to obtain pure and concentrated samples and enrichment of the proteins and peptides of interest. This review focuses on the serum sample preparation step prior to protein profiling by MALDI MS analysis, with particular focus on various SPE methods. The application of SPE techniques with different chromatographic properties such as RP, ion exchange, or affinity binding to isolate specific subsets of molecules (subproteomes) is advantageous for increasing resolution and sensitivity in the subsequent MS analysis. In addition, several of the SPE sample preparation methods are simple and scalable and have proven easy to automate for higher reproducibility and throughput, which is important in a clinical proteomics setting. [source] Serum protein profiling by miniaturized solid-phase extraction and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometryRAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY, Issue 12 2005Anne K. Callesen Serum profiling by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) holds promise as a clinical tool for early diagnosis of cancer and other human diseases. Sample preparation is key to achieving reproducible and well-resolved signals in MALDI-MS; a prerequisite for translation of MALDI-MS based diagnostic methods to clinical applications. We have investigated a number of MALDI matrices and several miniaturized solid-phase extraction (SPE) methods for serum protein concentration and desalting with the aim of generating reproducible, high-quality protein profiles by MALDI-MS. We developed a simple protocol for serum profiling that combines a matrix mixture of 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid and , -cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid with miniaturized SPE and MALDI-MS. Functionalized membrane discs with hydrophobic, ion-exchange or chelating properties allowed reproducible MALDI mass spectra (m/z 1000,12,000) to be obtained from serum. In a proof-of-principle application, SPE with chelating material and MALDI-MS identified protein peaks in serum that had been previously reported for distinguishing a person diagnosed with breast cancer from a control. These preliminary results indicate that this simple SPE/MALDI-MS method for serum profiling provides a versatile and scalable platform for clinical proteomics. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] Follicular, Oocyte and Embryo Features Related to Metabolic Status in Primiparous Lactating does Fed with High-Fibre Rearing DietsREPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 5 2010M Arias-Álvarez Contents Fertility of primiparous lactating does in the early postpartum (pp) period is very low mainly due to pronounced deficient energy intake, influencing oocyte and embryo developmental competence. The hypothesis used in this work was that high-lignin fibre diet supplied during the rearing period could increase feed intake and, consequently, improve the reproductive physiology and metabolic status of primiparous does in the early pp period. Diets with high-lignin [HL: 15.8% dry matter (DM)] or standard-lignin content (SL: 4.9% DM) were supplied until parturition time. No diet effects in serum oestradiol, progesterone concentrations and follicle categories were found in the histological study. Metaphase II rate of in vitro -matured oocytes was significantly higher in the SL vs the HL group (p < 0.001). Cytoplasmically degenerated oocytes (in terms of abnormal distribution of cortical granules) and follicular atresia rate were significantly lower in the SL group than in the HL group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.005 respectively). In addition, HL-fed does showed lower number of viable embryos and higher rate of retarded in vivo -recovered embryos compared with the SL group (p < 0.05). Neither in vitro embryo development of viable embryos nor conception rate was significantly different between groups. Feed intake increased during the first pregnancy in the HL group (p < 0.05), but not during early lactation. Serum protein, non-esterified fatty acid and leptin concentrations, as well as estimated body composition were similar in does fed with both diets. In conclusion, the enhancement of reproductive management by using highly lignified products in rearing diets does not seem to report physiological reproductive benefits affecting oocyte maturation rate and embryo viability in primiparous lactating does. [source] Quantitative l -lysine requirement of juvenile black sea bream (Sparus macrocephalus)AQUACULTURE NUTRITION, Issue 2 2010F. ZHOU Abstract An 8-week feeding experiment was conducted to determine the quantitative l -lysine requirement of juvenile black sea bream Sparus macrocephalus (initial mean weight: 9.13 ± 0.09 g, SD) in eighteen 300-L indoors flow-through circular fibreglass tanks provided with sand-filtered aerated seawater. The experimental diets contained six levels of l -lysine ranging from 20.8 to 40.5 g kg,1 dry diet at about 4 g kg,1 increments. All the experiment diets were formulated to be isoenergetic and isonitrogenous. Each diet was assigned to triplicate groups of 20 fish in a completely randomized design. Weight gain and specific growth rate (SGR) increased with increasing levels of dietary lysine up to 32.5 g kg,1 (P < 0.05) and both showed a declining tendency thereafter. Feed efficiency ratio and protein efficiency ratio was poorer for fish fed the lower lysine level diets (P < 0.05) and showed no significant differences among other treatments (P > 0.05). All groups showed high survival (above 90%) and no significant differences were observed. The whole body crude protein and crude lipid contents were significantly affected (P < 0.05) by dietary lysine level, while moisture and ash showed no significant differences. The composition of muscle and liver also presented similar change tendency. Total essential amino acid and lysine contents in muscle both obtained the highest value when fish fed 32.5 g kg,1 lysine diet (P < 0.05). Serum protein, cholesterol and free lysine concentration were affected by different dietary treatments (P < 0.05), triacylglyceride and glucose contents were more variable and could not be related to dietary lysine levels. Dietary lysine level significantly affected condition factor and intraperitoneal fat ratio of juvenile black sea bream (P < 0.05) except for hepatosomatic index. There were no significant differences in white blood cell count and red blood cell count (P > 0.05), however, haemoglobin level was significantly influenced by different diets (P < 0.05). Analysis of dose (lysine level)-response (SGR) with second order polynomial regression suggested the dietary lysine requirement of juvenile black sea bream to be 33.2 g kg,1 dry diet or 86.4 g lysine kg,1 protein. [source] Growth response and acquired resistance of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.) that survived Streptococcus iniae infectionAQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 12 2006Craig A Shoemaker Abstract This study determined the growth performance and acquired resistance of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.) that survived Streptococcus iniae infection. Tilapia were challenged with three doses of S. iniae (8.8 × 103, 8.8 × 104 and 8.8 × 105 CFU fish,1 for low, medium and high challenges respectively). Groups of non-injected and tryptic soy broth-injected fish were maintained as controls. Significantly (P<0.05) higher mortality (45.0%) occurred in the high challenge treatment than in the low challenge treatment group (29.6%). The medium challenge group had mortality (36.3%) that did not differ significantly from the high or low treatment. Few fish died in the non-injected and broth-injected treatments (3.4% and 0.8% respectively). The tilapia that survived S. iniae infection used to assess growth performance were selected from survivors without gross clinical signs of disease. These fish were randomly stocked at a rate of 30 fish into each 57 L aquarium in triplicate and fed to apparent satiation for 8 weeks. No significant differences were detected in weight gain, feed intake, feed efficiency ratio or survival between S. iniae -survived tilapia and the control treatments following the 8-week growth performance trial. Following the 8-week feeding study, tilapia were challenged with 1 × 106 CFU fish,1 of S. iniae to assess acquired immunity. Mean cumulative mortality was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the control treatments (41.7% for the non-injected and 43.3% for the broth-injected fish) than in the low, medium and high challenge treatments (7.4%, 3.3% and 8.3% respectively). Serum protein was significantly (P<0.05) elevated in the S. iniae -survived tilapia that were subsequently challenged when compared with controls challenged for the first time. Agglutinating antibody titre was significantly higher in the fish in the medium and high challenge treatments, compared with the control fish challenged for the first time. The results suggest tilapia that survive S. iniae challenge without showing overt disease signs performed as well as non-infected tilapia. Further, the S. iniae -survived tilapia challenged following the 8-week growth performance trial gained acquired resistance to homologous S. iniae challenge. [source] 2-D difference gel electrophoresis of the lung squamous cell carcinoma versus normal sera demonstrates consistent alterations in the levels of ten specific proteinsELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 23 2007Paul Dowling Dr. Abstract Most lung cancers are diagnosed too late for curative treatment to be possible, therefore early detection is crucial. Serum proteins are a rich source of biomarkers and have the potential to be used as diagnostic and prognostic indicators for lung cancer. In order to examine differences in serum levels of specific proteins associated with human lung squamous carcinoma, immunodepletion of albumin and five other high-abundant serum proteins followed by 2-D difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE) analysis and subsequent MS was used to generate a panel of proteins found to be differentially expressed between the cancer and normal samples. Proteins found to have increased abundance levels in squamous cell carcinoma sera compared to normal sera included apolipoprotein A-IV precursor, chain F; human complement component C3c, haptoglobin, serum amyloid A protein precursor and Ras-related protein Rab-7b. Proteins found to have lower abundance levels in squamous cell carcinoma sera compared to normal sera included alpha-2-HS glycoprotein, hemopexin precursor, proapolipoprotein, antithrombin III and SP40; 40. The data presented here demonstrate that high-abundant protein removal combined with 2-D DIGE is a powerful strategy for the discovery of potential biomarkers. The identification of lung cancer-specific biomarkers is crucial to early detection, which in turn could lead to a dramatic increase in survival rates. [source] Simple and simultaneous determination of sulphapyridine and acetylsulphapyridine in human serum by column-switching high-performance liquid chromatographyJOURNAL OF CLINICAL PHARMACY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 6 2002D. Teshima PhD Summary Objective:, A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with an automated on-line column-switching system was used for the simultaneous determination of sulphapyridine and acetylsulphapyridine, two major active metabolites related to the adverse effects of sulphasalazine, in human serum. Methods:, Serum samples were directly injected into the HPLC, with the valve automatically switched on to remove serum proteins and other hydrophilic components remaining in the pre-column after elution of sulphapyridine and acetylsulphapyridine to the analytical column. Results:, Serum proteins did not interfere with the analysis of either compound. The recoveries of SLP and Ac-SLP from drug-free human serum were 93·03,99·18% and CV were 2·88,4·34%. The within-run reproducibility of assays was excellent with relative standard deviations (RSD) of 1·01,3·90% (SLP) and 0·77,5·56% (Ac-SLP). The limit of quantification of sulphapyridine and acetylsulphapyridine was 3·13 ,g/mL and 0·50 ,g/mL, respectively. The serum concentrations in a patient with ulcerative colitis, who took 1·0 g sulphasalazine twice daily, were 31·20 ,g/mL for sulphapyridine and 14·64 ,g/mL for acetylsulphapyridine at 7 h after ingestion. Conclusion:, The present simple and reproducible assay was useful for the monitoring of serum sulphapyridine and acetylsulphapyridine. [source] Evaluation of Modified CMC and CMC-PVA as Miscible Polymer Blend Membranes for HepatocytesMACROMOLECULAR BIOSCIENCE, Issue 5 2007Aysel Koç Abstract CMC and CMC-PVA were blended either with type I collagen, BSA or CS to obtain biocompatible membranes for evaluation as potential hepatocyte culture substrates. Pure and modified forms of CMC showed distinct surface, mechanical, and cell attachment properties. While the hydrophilicity decreased, the mechanical stability and the porosity of CMC membranes increased after blending. Serum proteins were adsorbed by all types of membranes. Among eight membranes tested, collagen-modified CMC was found to be a suitable membrane material for hepatocyte culture, in terms of mechanical and cell interaction properties. [source] Blood,brain barrier damage and brain penetration of antiepileptic drugs: Role of serum proteins and brain edemaEPILEPSIA, Issue 4 2009Nicola Marchi Summary Purpose:, Increased blood,brain barrier (BBB) permeability is radiologically detectable in regions affected by drug-resistant epileptogenic lesions. Brain penetration of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) may be affected by BBB damage. We studied the effects of BBB damage on brain distribution of hydrophilic [deoxy-glucose (DOG) and sucrose] and lipophilic (phenytoin and diazepam) molecules. We tested the hypothesis that lipophilic and hydrophilic drug distribution is differentially affected by BBB damage. Methods:, In vivo BBB disruption (BBBD) was performed in rats by intracarotid injection of hyperosmotic mannitol. Drugs (H3-sucrose, 3H-deoxy-glucose, 14C-phenytoin, and C14-diazepam) or unlabeled phenytoin was measured and correlated to brain water content and protein extravasation. In vitro hippocampal slices were exposed to different osmolarities; drug penetration and water content were assessed by analytic and densitometric methods, respectively. Results:, BBBD resulted in extravasation of serum protein and radiolabeled drugs, but was associated with no significant change in brain water. Large shifts in water content in brain slices in vitro caused a small effect on drug penetration. In both cases, total drug permeability increase was greater for lipophilic than hydrophilic compounds. BBBD reduced the amount of free phenytoin in the brain. Discussion:, After BBBD, drug binding to protein is the main controller of total brain drug accumulation. Osmotic BBBD increased serum protein extravasation and reduced free phenytoin brain levels. These results underlie the importance of brain environment and BBB integrity in determining drug distribution to the brain. If confirmed in drug-resistant models, these mechanisms could contribute to drug brain distribution in refractory epilepsies. [source] Prevalence and serum protein values of strangles (Streptococcus equi) affected mules at Remount Depot, Sargodha (Pakistan)EQUINE VETERINARY EDUCATION, Issue 4 2010M. Ijaz Summary The prevalence of Streptococcus equi serovar equi (S.equi) in nasal discharge and pus samples from sub-mandibular lymph nodes in mules at the Remount Depot, Sargodha was examined and total serum proteins, serum albumin, serum globulin and fibrinogen measured. A total of 250 nasal swabs and pus samples were collected from mules and examined microbiologically: 99 (39.6%) were positive for S. equi. A higher occurrence of S. equi was recorded in foals as compared to adults. The concentrations of total serum protein, serum globulin and fibrinogen were significantly increased (P<0.05), while the concentration of serum albumin significantly decreased (P<0.05) in strangles-affected mules. It was concluded that increased total serum proteins, serum globulin and fibrinogen along with decreased serum albumin were important indicators of infection by S. equi in mules. [source] Ammonium acid urate urolithiasis in JapanINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF UROLOGY, Issue 5 2006HIDETOSHI KURUMA Aim:, Ammonium acid urate (AAU) calculi are a rare urolithiasis in developed countries but are endemic in developing countries. We assessed the features of AAU urolithiasis in Japanese patients. Methods:, We reviewed hospital charts of patients with urolithiasis who were treated with extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy and endourological procedures at Sagamidai Hospital (Kanagawa, Japan) from January 1992 to December 2001. On the basis of the results of stone analysis with an infrared spectrophotometer, AAU stones were found. Results:, Of 8664 urolithiasis that we reviewed, 33 calculi (0.38%) from 29 patients contained AAU crystals. From crystallographic findings, we defined two types of AAU-containing stones: pure and mixed AAU urolithiasis. Pure AAU urolithiasis were seen in 13 stones from 10 patients and mixed AAU in 20 stones from 19 patients. We found significant differences between the groups: the pure AAU group predominantly consisted of young, thin women and the mixed group consisted of middle-aged men. Laboratory findings showed trends of low levels of serum protein, potassium, and urine pH in the pure AAU group. Conclusions:, Because each type of AAU urolithiasis is associated with different patient characteristics and pathophysiological features, it is important to understand the type of AAU urolithiasis in patients with calculi. [source] Oxidative damage to DNA and lipids: correlation with protein glycation in patients with type 1 diabetesJOURNAL OF CLINICAL LABORATORY ANALYSIS, Issue 2 2010Mohammad Taghi Goodarzi Abstract Diabetic hyperglycemia is associated with increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS reacts with DNA resulting in various products, such as 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), that excrete in urine owing to DNA repair processes. Urinary 8-OHdG has been proposed as an indicator of oxidative damage to DNA. This study aimed to evaluate relationship between oxidative damage to DNA and protein glycation in patients with Type 1 diabetes. We measured urinary 8-OHdG level in diabetic patients and healthy subjects and discussed its relationship to glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and glycated serum protein (GSP) levels. Furthermore plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) level monitored as an important indicator of lipid peroxidation in diabetes. We studied 32 patients with Type 1 diabetes mellitus and compared the measured factors with those of 48 age-matched nondiabetic controls. GSP and MDA were measured bycolorimetric assay. Urinary 8-OHdG measurement was carried out using ELISA. In this study urinary 8-OHdG, HbA1c, plasma MDA, and GSP levels were progressively higher in diabetics than in control subjects (P<0.05). Furthermore we found significant correlation between urinary 8-OHdG and HbA1c (P<0.05) in diabetic group. Correlation between fasting blood sugar and GSP were significant. We also found significant correlation between fasting blood sugar and MDA. This case,control study in young diabetic patients showed increased blood glucose and related metabolic disorders result in oxidative stress and oxidative damage to DNA and lipids. Furthermore oxidative damage to DNA is associated to glycemic control level, whereas lipid peroxidation level was not significantly correlated with glycemic control level. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 24:72,76, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Drug,herb interactions: unexpected suppression of free Danshen concentrations by salicylateJOURNAL OF CLINICAL LABORATORY ANALYSIS, Issue 6 2002Deepali Gupta Abstract The general population of the U.S. uses over-the-counter herbal medicines. Danshen is a Chinese herbal product used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. In a previous study we showed that Danshen has significant digoxin-like immunoreactivity, and we used this parameter to monitor total and free Danshen activities in sera (10). In this report we demonstrated strong protein binding of Danshen (50,70%), and we also identified albumin as the major serum protein that binds Danshen. Because salicylate, which is also strongly bound to albumin, is a widely used over-the-counter medicine in the U.S., we studied Danshen,salicylate interaction in vitro. We observed no significant change in free Danshen concentrations as measured by free-digoxin-like activity when salicylate concentrations were subtherapeutic (,100 ,g/mL). With therapeutic concentrations of salicylate (,150 ,g/mL), the free Danshen concentrations significantly decreased from the control. On the other hand, Danshen can displace salicylate from protein binding, thereby increasing the free salicylate concentration. We conclude that salicylate in therapeutic concentration can significantly decrease free Danshen concentrations, and Danshen can displace salicylate. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 16:290,294, 2002. © 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Pemphigus vulgaris as a possible cause of protein-losing gastroenteropathy: A case reportJOURNAL OF PAEDIATRICS AND CHILD HEALTH, Issue 3 2008Takashi Ishige Abstract: We present a case of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) accompanied with protein-losing gastroenteropathy (PLE). A 9-year-old girl developed multiple oral ulcerations and erosions. She was first treated with oral antibiotics and a topical steroid without improvement. Laboratory data showed eosinophilia (absolute eosinophil count 1.08 × 109/L) and hypoproteinemia (total serum protein 3.9 g/dL, albumin 2.2 g/dL). A biopsy specimen from the ileum showed intense eosinophil infiltration and albumin scintigraphy demonstrated protein exduation from the same site. Endoscopic examination of the oesophagus showed multiple ulcerations and erosions, and biopsy specimen showed eosinophilic spongiosis and immunohistologic staining demonstrated deposits of IgG and C3 in the intercellular space. Antidesmoglein-3 antibody elevated, she was diagnosed as PV complicated with PLE. Immunofluorescence study of a biopsy specimen from the terminal ileum showed no significant immunoglobulin or complement deposition, and autoantibody against intestinal mucosa was unclear in this case. Gastrointestinal evaluations should be considered in patients with hypoproteinemia associated with PV. [source] Anti-diabetic effect of an ,-glucan from fruit body of maitake (Grifola frondosa) on KK-Ay miceJOURNAL OF PHARMACY AND PHARMACOLOGY: AN INTERNATI ONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCE, Issue 4 2007Lei Hong We have evaluated the anti-diabetic effect of a ,-glucan (MT-,-glucan) from the fruit body of maitake mushrooms (Grifola frondosa) on KK-Ay mice (a kind of genetical type 2 diabetes animal model). The effects of MT-,-glucan (450 or 150 mg kg,1) on diabetic mice were investigated by observing the changes in body weight, the level of fasting plasma glucose, glycosylated serum protein (GSP), hepatic glycogen, serum insulin, triglycerides, cholesterol, free fatty acid, liver superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSHpx), reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA). Moreover, the binding capacity of insulin receptors on liver crude plasma membranes was assayed and histopathological changes in the pancreas were observed. Treatment with MT-,-glucan significantly decreased the body weight, level of fasting plasma glucose, GSP, serum insulin, triglycerides, cholesterol, free fatty acid and MDA content in livers. Treatment with MT-,-glucan significantly increased the content of hepatic glycogen, GSH and the activity of SOD and GSHpx. Moreover, the insulin binding capacity to liver crude plasma membranes increased and histopatho-logical changes in the pancreas were ameliorated in the treatment group. These data suggest that MT-,-glucan has an anti-diabetic effect on KK-Ay mice, which might be related to its effect on insulin receptors (i.e., increasing insulin sensitivity and ameliorating insulin resistance of peripheral target tissues). [source] Haemodilution induced by hydroxyethyl starches 130/0.4 is similar in septic and non-septic patientsACTA ANAESTHESIOLOGICA SCANDINAVICA, Issue 2 2008P. MEYER Background: Fluid therapy induces haemodilution related to plasma volume expansion. The aim of our study was to compare haemodilution after a single hydroxyethyl starches (HES) 130/0.4 infusion in two groups of patients, one with and one without sepsis. We hypothesized that a single HES challenge would induce similar sustained haemodilution in both groups. Methods: In this prospective preliminary study, patients predicted to require a single further volume-expander infusion were included immediately before receiving 500 ml of 6% HES 130/0.4 over a 15-min period. No additional fluid was administered over the next 8 h. Haematocrit, and serum albumin and protein were determined immediately before HES infusion then after 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8 h. Results: Twelve patients were included in each group. In both groups, all three haemodilution markers had significantly lower values after 1 h than at baseline. None of the values after 1 and 3 h differed significantly between the two groups. Neither did any of the other study variables show significant differences between the groups with and without sepsis. Conclusion: We found that a starch-based compound was as effective in inducing haemodilution in patients with sepsis as in controls without sepsis, suggesting that HES may remain within the intravascular space even in patients with sepsis. Haemodilution parameters such as haematocrit, serum albumin and serum protein are useful for assessing the duration of plasma volume expansion induced by fluid therapy in critically ill patients. [source] Acute Toxicity and Sublethal Effects of Nitrite on Selected Hematological Parameters and Tissues in Dark-banded Rockfish, Sebastes inermisJOURNAL OF THE WORLD AQUACULTURE SOCIETY, Issue 2 2007In-Seok Park Acute toxicity and sublethal effects of nitrite in dark-banded rockfish, Sebastes inermis (83.3 ± 7.2 g), were studied under static conditions for a period of 96 h. The acute toxicity of nitrite evaluated for the 96-h lethal concentration (LC50) was 700 mg/L. The sublethal effects on selected hematological parameters of S. inermis, such as total erythrocyte count (TEC), hemoglobin, plasma glucose, and serum protein content, were measured after 0, 6, 12, 24, 48, 72, and 96 h of exposure to 0, 50, 100, 200, 400, and 700 mg/L of nitrite. Sublethal nitrite caused progressive reduction in the TEC, hemoglobin, and serum protein content in fish depending on the nitrite concentration and exposure period. The 96-h exposure resulted in a 14,42% reduction in TEC and 25,33% reduction in hemoglobin content for 100,700 mg/L of nitrite compared to the control. A dose-related reduction in plasma glucose (25.7,34.2%) was observed for concentrations of 200,700 mg/L of nitrite during 48 h of exposure, followed by an increase through 96 h. A significant reduction in serum protein (7.3,12.6%) was observed for 200,700 mg/L of nitrite after 96 h of exposure. Abnormal histological changes in skin, gill, liver, and kidney tissue were observed in fish exposed to 700 mg/L of nitrite after 96 h of exposure compared to the control. Although no mortality of S. inermis occurred at 500 mg/L of nitrite, all hematological parameters adversely responded to a nitrite dose of 200 mg/L for 96 h. These results showed that although acute toxicity concentration of nitrite in S. inermis is higher than 700 mg/L, sublethal concentrations of nitrite also negatively affect hematological parameters. [source] Mining biomarkers in human sera using proteomic toolsPROTEINS: STRUCTURE, FUNCTION AND BIOINFORMATICS, Issue 1 2004Rulin Zhang Abstract One of the major difficulties in mining low abundance biomarkers from serum or plasma is due to the fact that a small number of proteins such as albumin, ,2-macroglobulin, transferrin, and immunoglobulins, may represent as much as 80% of the total serum protein. The large quantity of these proteins makes it difficult to identify low abundance proteins in serum using traditional 2-dimensional electrophoresis. We recently used a combination of multidimensional liquid chromatography and gel electrophoresis coupled to matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization-quadrupole-time of flight and Ion Trap liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry to identify protein markers in sera of Alzheimer's disease (AD), insulin resistance/type-2 diabetes (IR/D2), and congestive heart failure (CHF) patients. We identified 8 proteins that exhibit higher levels in control sera and 36 proteins that exhibit higher levels in disease sera. For example, haptoglobin and hemoglobin are elevated in sera of AD, IR/D2, and CHF patients. The levels of several other proteins including fibrinogen and its fragments, alpha 2-macroglobulin, transthyretin, pro-platelet basic protein, protease inhibitors clade A and C, as well as proteins involved in the classical complement pathway such as complement C3, C4, and C1 inhibitor, were found to differ between IR/D2 and control sera. The sera levels of proteins, such as the 10 kDa subunit of vitronectin, alpha 1-acid glycoprotein, apolipoprotein B100, fragment of factor H, and histidine-rich glycoprotein were observed to be different between AD and controls. The differences observed in these biomarker candidates were confirmed by Western blot and the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The biological meaning of the proteomic changes in the disease states and the potential use of these changes as diagnostic tools or for therapeutic intervention will be discussed. [source] An in vitro model of bacterial infections in wounds and other soft tissuesAPMIS, Issue 2 2010MARIA WERTHÉN Werthén M, Henriksson L, Jensen PØ, Sternberg C, Givskov M, Bjarnsholt T. An in vitro model of bacterial infections in wounds and other soft tissues. APMIS 2010; 118: 156,64. There is growing evidence that bacteria play a crucial role in the persistence of chronic wounds. These bacteria are most probably present in polymer-embedded aggregates that represent the biofilm mode of growth. Much work has been carried out to study the development of biofilms in vitro, in particular in attachment to solid surfaces. The observations from the chronic wounds indicate that the bacteria are not attached to a solid surface. Consequently, a new in vitro model is required to investigate biofilms in more wound-like settings. This study describes such a novel in vitro model, with bacteria growing as biofilm aggregates in a collagen gel matrix with serum protein mimicking the wound bed of chronic wounds. The model was verified to comprise important hallmarks of biofilms such as the bacterial embedment in a matrix and increased antibiotic tolerance. Furthermore, we have verified the relevance of the model by comparing the organization of the bacteria in the model with the organization of the bacteria in a real chronic wound. We believe that we have developed an important new model for investigating bacterial biofilms in chronic wounds. This model may be used to study biofilm development in chronic wounds and to develop novel diagnostic tools as well as treatment strategies. [source] Stress mitigating and immunomodulatory effect of dietary pyridoxine in Labeo rohita (Hamilton) fingerlingsAQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 7 2010Mohammad Shahbaz Akhtar Abstract A 60-day experiment was carried out to delineate stress mitigating and immunomodulatory role of dietary pyridoxine (PN) in Labeo rohita fingerlings exposed to endosulfan. Two hundred and seventy fingerlings were randomly distributed into six treatments in triplicates. Five iso-caloric and iso-nitrogenous purified diets were prepared with graded levels of pyridoxine. Six treatment groups were T0 (10 mg PN+without endosulfan), T1 (0 mg PN+endosulfan), T2 (10 mg PN+endosulfan), T3 (50 mg PN+endosulfan), T4 (100 mg PN+endosulfan) and T5 (200 mg PN+endosulfan). The role of pyridoxine on stress mitigation and immunomodulation was assessed by biochemical and haemato-immunological parameters like aspartate aminotransaminase, alanine aminotransaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, malate dehydrogenase, superoxide dismutase and catalase were significantly (P<0.05) lower while acetylcholinesterase was significantly (P<0.05) higher in pyridoxine-fed groups. Erythrocytes count, haemoglobin content and total serum protein, albumin, globulin, nitroblue tetrazolium and lysozyme activity were significantly (P<0.05) higher while cortisol and blood glucose were decreased significantly (P<0.05) in pyridoxine-fed groups. Percentage survival after challenge with Aeromonas hydrophila was highest in T0 group. The results obtained in present study indicate that dietary pyridoxine supplementation at 100 mg PN kg,1 diet reduces the endosulfan-induced stress and triggers immune response in L. rohita fingerlings. [source] Haematological modulation and growth of Labeo rohita fingerlings: effect of dietary mannan oligosaccharide, yeast extract, protein hydrolysate and chlorellaAQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 1 2009Simi Rose Andrews Abstract The present study was conducted for 60 days to delineate the efficacy of various dietary immunomodulators like mannan oligosaccharide (MOS), yeast extract (YE), protein hydrolysate (PH) and chlorella (CL) in Labeo rohita fingerlings. Five hundred and eighty-five L. rohita fingerlings (average weight: 4.15 ± 0.07 g) were randomly distributed in 13 treatment groups with each of three replicates. Thirteen semi-purified isonitrogenous (crude protein 324.7,332.5 g kg,1) and isocaloric (17.66,17.80 MJ kg,1) diets were prepared with three graded levels (1%, 2% or 4%) of immunostimulants, except the control. At the end of the feeding trial, weight gain%, specific growth rate, feed conversion ratio, leucocyte count, erythrocyte count, haemoglobin content, serum protein, globulin, albumin,globulin ratio, nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) value and survival percentage were evaluated. Growth was significantly higher in the MOS-fed group. All the immune parameters studied were also recorded higher in the MOS 1%-supplemented group. The survival percentage after challenging with Aeromonas hydrophila was higher (P<0.05) in the MOS-, YE- and PH-fed groups and the lowest in the CL-treated group. It can be concluded that dietary supplementation of MOS at a 1% dietary level promotes growth and survival in L. rohita fingerlings. In contrast, higher inclusion levels of immunostimulants led to an immunosuppressive effect in L. rohita fingerlings. [source] Effects of the probiotic, Lactobacillus acidophilus, on the growth performance, haematology parameters and immunoglobulin concentration in African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus, Burchell 1822) fingerlingAQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 14 2009Mohammed Abdullah Al-Dohail Abstract This experiment was carried out to evaluate the effects of the probiotic, Lactobacillus acidophilus, on the growth performance, haematology parameters and immunoglobulin concentration in African catfish Clarias gariepinus fingerling. Two experimental diets were formulated to contain 35 g kg,1 crude protein and 10 g kg,1 lipids accordingly and fed three times daily for 12 weeks to 25 C. gariepinus fingerlings per fibreglass tank in 12 replicates each. The control diet was prepared with no probiotic supplementation whereas the second diet was prepared supplemented with a probiotic, L. acidophilus, containing about 3.01 × 107 colonies/g of diet. The results show that growth performance [specific growth rate (SGR) and relative growth rate (RGR)], nutrient utilization [protein efficiency ratio (PER) and feed conversion ratio (FCR)] and survival were significantly (P<0.05) higher in fish maintained on the probiotic-supplemented diet compared with those on the control diet. Haematology parameters (packed cell volume, haemoglobin, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, red blood cell and white blood cell, total serum protein, Ca2+, Mg2+, Cl,, glucose and cholesterol) and total immunoglobulin concentrations were also significantly better in fish fed the probiotic-supplemented diet than in the control. Although the water quality parameters monitored were better in the fish fed the probiotic-supplemented diet than in the control, the parameters were not significantly different (P>0.05). From the results of this experiment, we conclude that L. acidophilus can be used as a probiotic agent in African catfish culture, to enhance fish health, survival and better feed efficiency and growth performance. [source] Influence of ,-hydroxy-,-methylbutyrate on nonspecific humoral defense mechanisms and protection against furunculosis in pikeperch (Sander lucioperca)AQUACULTURE RESEARCH, Issue 2 2006Andrzej K Siwicki Abstract Studies have shown that in both in vitro and in vivo tests, ,-hydroxy-,-methylbutyrate (HMB) increases the nonspecific cellular and humoral immune response and protection against diseases in animals. The present study examines the influence of HMB on nonspecific humoral defense mechanisms and protection against furunculosis in pikeperch (Sander lucioperca). ,-hydroxy-,-methylbutyrate was fed in a pelleted ration of 50 mg kg,1 feed day,1 for 4 weeks. Blood was drawn from 12 HMB-fed and control-fed pikeperch. The lysozyme and ceruloplasmin activities in the plasma, total immunoglobulin (Ig) levels, and total serum protein were analysed prior to and then after 2 and 4 weeks of HMB ingestion. After 4 weeks of HMB ingestion, a challenge test was performed by injecting the fish with live pathogenic Aeromonas salmonicida bacteria. ,-hydroxy-,-methylbutyrate at a dose of 50 mg kg,1 feed resulted in a statistically significant (P<0.05) increase in the lysozyme activity of the plasma, total Ig, and serum protein levels. Additionally, reduced mortality (40%) after the in vivo challenge with pathogenic A. salmonicida suggested that HMB-activated nonspecific protection against furunculosis in pikeperch. [source] Crystallization and X-ray structure of full-length recombinant human butyrylcholinesteraseACTA CRYSTALLOGRAPHICA SECTION F (ELECTRONIC), Issue 9 2007Michelle N. Ngamelue Human butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) has been shown to function as an endogenous scavenger of diverse poisons. BChE is a 340,kDa tetrameric glycoprotein that is present in human serum at a concentration of 5,mg,l,1. The well documented therapeutic effects of BChE on cocaine toxicity and organophosphorus agent poisoning has increased the need for effective methods of producing recombinant therapeutic BChE. In order to be therapeutically useful, BChE must have a long circulatory residence time or associate as tetramers. Full-length recombinant BChE produced in Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells or human embryonic kidney cells has been shown to associate as monomers, with a shorter circulatory residence time than the naturally occurring tetrameric serum protein. Based on the preceding observation as well as the need to develop novel methodologies to facilitate the mass production of therapeutic recombinant BChE, studies have been initiated to determine the structural basis of tetramer formation. Towards these ends, full-length monomeric recombinant BChE has been crystallized for the first time. A 2.8,Å X-ray structure was solved in space group P4212, with unit-cell parameters a = b = 156, c = 146,Å. [source] S100-, serum protein,a new marker in the diagnosis and monitoring of Langerhans cell histiocytosis?BRITISH JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 1 2000S. Ugurel No abstract is available for this article. [source] Factors associated with sclerema in infants with diarrhoeal disease: a matched case-control studyACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 5 2009Mohammod Jobayer Chisti Abstract Aim: To identify clinical and biochemical factors associated with sclerema in infants with diarrhoeal illness, and their outcome. Methods: In this case-control study, we enrolled 30 infants with clinical sepsis with sclerema (cases) and another 60, age- and sex-matched infants with clinical sepsis but without sclerema (controls) from among those admitted to the special care unit (SCU) and longer stay unit (LSU) of the Dhaka Hospital of International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (ICDDR,B) for their diarrhoeal illness from May 2005 through April 2006. Sclerema as the dependant variable while hypoxia, hypothermia, C-reactive protein (CRP) level, serum total protein and prealbumin level were the major independent variables compared in the analysis. Differences in proportions were compared by the chi-square test and differences of mean were compared by Student's t -test or Mann,Whitney test, as appropriate. Results: The case-fatality was significantly higher among the cases than the controls (30% vs. 2%, CI 2.9,565.5). After adjusting for confounders, infants with sclerema were more likely to be hypothermic (OR 11.6, 95% CI 1.1,126.5), and have lower serum total protein (OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.04,1.21) and prealbumin (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1,2.3). Conclusion: Diarrhoeal infants having clinical sepsis presenting with hypothermia, lower serum protein and prealbumin are prone to be associated with sclerema. [source] Analysis of immune complexes by capillary electrophoresisELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 12 2008Zak K. Shihabi Dr.Article first published online: 21 MAY 200 Abstract A simple method for immune complexes (IC) analysis by CE is described. This method combines the ease of precipitation of the IC by polyethylene glycol with the separation power of CE. The advantage of this method is a better quantitation of the IC, since it corrects and eliminates the interferences from other serum proteins. It also reveals the composition (monoclonality) of the precipitate. Three types of IC have been detected in this method: monoclonal, polyclonal and mixed (mono-polyclonal) IC. Furthermore, the method is rapid and simple. [source] 2-D difference gel electrophoresis of the lung squamous cell carcinoma versus normal sera demonstrates consistent alterations in the levels of ten specific proteinsELECTROPHORESIS, Issue 23 2007Paul Dowling Dr. Abstract Most lung cancers are diagnosed too late for curative treatment to be possible, therefore early detection is crucial. Serum proteins are a rich source of biomarkers and have the potential to be used as diagnostic and prognostic indicators for lung cancer. In order to examine differences in serum levels of specific proteins associated with human lung squamous carcinoma, immunodepletion of albumin and five other high-abundant serum proteins followed by 2-D difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE) analysis and subsequent MS was used to generate a panel of proteins found to be differentially expressed between the cancer and normal samples. Proteins found to have increased abundance levels in squamous cell carcinoma sera compared to normal sera included apolipoprotein A-IV precursor, chain F; human complement component C3c, haptoglobin, serum amyloid A protein precursor and Ras-related protein Rab-7b. Proteins found to have lower abundance levels in squamous cell carcinoma sera compared to normal sera included alpha-2-HS glycoprotein, hemopexin precursor, proapolipoprotein, antithrombin III and SP40; 40. The data presented here demonstrate that high-abundant protein removal combined with 2-D DIGE is a powerful strategy for the discovery of potential biomarkers. The identification of lung cancer-specific biomarkers is crucial to early detection, which in turn could lead to a dramatic increase in survival rates. [source] In vitro assessment of potential mechanism-specific effects of polybrominated diphenyl ethersENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 11 2002Daniel L. Villeneuve Abstract This study examined the ability of environmentally relevant concentrations of 10 different polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) to induce aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR)-and estrogen receptor (ER)-mediated gene expression in vitro. It also examined the ability of PBDEs to displace steroid hormones from serum proteins in vitro. At concentrations ranging up to 880 ng/ml, none of the PBDEs significantly displaced tritiated 17,-estradiol (E2) or testosterone from hormone-stripped carp serum. At concentrations ranging up to 500 ng/ml, 9 of 10 PBDEs tested failed to induce ER- or AhR-mediated gene expression in MVLN and H4IIE-luc cells, respectively. One congener, 3,3,,4,4,,5-pentabromodiphenylether (BDE 126), induced significant AhR-mediated gene expression at 500 ng/ml, but the magnitude of induction was only 13% of that caused by 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo- p -dioxin (TCDD). Overall, the PBDEs tested were found to be at least 200,000 times less potent than TCDD and 50,000 times less potent than E2 for inducing AhR- and ER-mediated gene expression, respectively. [source] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||