Research progress in lineage tracing to explore hepatic parenchymal cell regeneration and repair mechanisms / 中华肝脏病杂志

Hepatic parenchymal cells are a type of liver cells that performs important functions such as metabolism and detoxification. The contribution of hepatic parenchymal cells, bile duct cells, and hepatic stem/progenitor cells to new hepatic parenchymal cells in the process of liver injury repair has become a controversial issue due to their strong proliferation ability. Lineage tracing technology, which has emerged in the past decade as a new method for exploring the origin of cells, can trace specific type of cells and their daughter cells by labeling cells that express the specific gene and their progeny. The article reviews the current literature on the origin and contribution of hepatic parenchymal cells by this technique. About 98% of new hepatic parenchymal cells originate from the existing hepatic parenchymal cells during liver homeostasis and after acute injury. However, under conditions of severe liver injury, such as inhibition of hepatic parenchymal cell proliferation, bile duct cells (mainly liver stem/progenitor cells) become the predominant source of hepatic parenchymal cells, contributing a steady increased hepatocyte regeneration with the extension of time.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and bilirubin: correlation, mechanism, and therapeutic perspectives / 中华肝脏病杂志

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a metabolic-related disorder induced by multiple factors and mainly characterized by excessive fat buildup in hepatocytes. With the consumption of a Western-style diet and obesity prevalence in recent years, the incidence of NAFLD has gradually increased, becoming an increasingly serious public health problem. Bilirubin is a heme metabolite and a potent antioxidant. Studies have demonstrated that bilirubin levels have an inverse correlation with the incidence rate of NAFLD; however, which form of bilirubin plays the main protective role is still controversial. It is considered that the main protective mechanisms for NAFLD are bilirubin antioxidant properties, insulin resistance reduction, and mitochondrial function. This article summarizes the correlation, protective mechanism, and possible clinical application of NAFLD and bilirubin.

Blueberry attenuates liver injury in metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease by promoting the expression of mitofilin/Mic60 in human hepatocytes and inhibiting the production of superoxide / 细胞与分子免疫学杂志

Objective To study the effect and mechanism of blueberry on regulating the mitochondrial inner membrane protein mitofilin/Mic60 in an in vitro model of metabolic dysfunction-associated liver disease (MAFLD). Methods L02 human hepatocytes were induced by free fatty acids (FFA) to establish MAFLD cell model. A normal group, a model group, an 80 μg/mL blueberry treatment group, a Mic60 short hairpin RNA (Mic60 shRNA) transfection group, and Mic60 knockdown combined with an 80 μg/mL blueberry treatment group were established. The intracellular lipid deposition was observed by oil red O staining, and the effect of different concentrations of blueberry pulp on the survival rate of L02 cells treated with FFA was measured by MTT assay. The levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents were measured by visible spectrophotometry. The expression of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in hepatocytes was observed by fluorescence microscopy, and the mRNA and protein expression of Mic60 were detected by real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Results After 24 hours of FFA stimulation, a large number of red lipid droplets in the cytoplasm of L02 cells was observed, and the survival rate of L02 cells treated with 80 μg/mL blueberry was higher. The results of ALT, AST, TG, TC, MDA and the fluorescence intensity of ROS in blueberry treated group were lower than those in model group, while the levels of SOD, GSH, Mic60 mRNA and protein in blueberry treated group were higher than those in model group. Conclusion Blueberry promotes the expression of Mic60, increases the levels of SOD and GSH in hepatocytes, and reduces the production of ROS, thus alleviating the injury of MAFLD hepatocytes and regulating the disorder of lipid metabolism.

Preparation and characterization of fenugreek leaf flavonoids and their protective effects against oxidative damage to hepatocytes / 中国中药杂志

The present study investigated the main components of fenugreek(Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) leaf flavonoids(FLFs) and their antioxidant activity. FLFs were prepared and enriched by solvent extraction, and the flavonoids were characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry(HPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS). The protective effect of FLFs against H_2O_2-induced stress damage to L02 hepatocytes was also investigated. Firstly, the cell viability was measured by MTT assay. The oxidative stress injury model was induced by H_2O_2 in L02 cells. The release of lactate dehydrogenase(LDH), the content of reduced glutathione(GSH) and malondialdehyde(MDA), and the activities of superoxide dismutase(SOD) and catalase(CAT) were measured by assay kits. Hoechst fluorescence staining was performed to observe the cell apoptosis. The expression levels of c-Jun N-terminal kinase(JNK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2(ERK1/2), nuclear factor erythroid-2 related factor 2(Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1(HO-1), and their phosphorylated proteins were detected by Western blot. Based on the MS fragment ion information and data in databases, FLFs contained eight flavonoids with quercetin and kaempferol as the main aglycons. The cell viabi-lity assay revealed that as compared with the conditions in the H_2O_2 treatment group, 3.125-25 μg·mL~(-1) FLFs could increase the viability of L02 cells, reduce LDH release and MDA content in a dose-dependent manner, potentiate the activities of SOD, CAT, and GSH, decrease the phosphorylation of JNK and ERK1/2 proteins, and up-regulate the expression of Nrf2 and HO-1. The results of fluorescence staining showed that the nucleus of the H_2O_2 treatment group showed concentrated and dense strong blue fluorescence, while the blue fluorescence intensity of the FLFs group decreased significantly. FLFs showed a protective effect against H_2O_2-induced oxidative damage in L02 cells, and the underlying mechanism is associated with the enhancement of cell capability in clearing oxygen free radicals and the inhibition of apoptosis by the activation of the MAPKs/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. The antioxidant effect of fenugreek leaf is related to its rich flavonoids.

Lipid Accumulation and IL-6 Production in L02 Hepatocytes Induced by Sodium Oleate: Dose and Time Dependence / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

To explore interleukin-6 (IL-6) production and characterize lipid accumulation in L02 hepatocytes induced by sodium oleate. L02 hepatocytes were incubated with 0, 37.5, 75, 150, 300, 600, or 1,200 μmol/L sodium oleate for 24 h, and the supernatant was collected to detect the concentration of IL-6. L02 hepatocytes were incubated with 300, 150, 75, or 0 μmol/L sodium oleate for 0-24 h. The supernatant was collected for detection of IL-6 and free fatty acids. L02 hepatocytes treated with 300 μmol/L sodium oleate for 0-24 h were stained with Oil Red O. With extended sodium oleate incubation time, IL-6 levels increased, and free fatty acids decreased. After 24 h incubation, IL-6 levels increased as sodium oleate increased from 37.5 to 300 μmol/L (

Melatonin ameliorates H2O2-induced oxidative stress through modulation of Erk/Akt/NFkB pathway

BACKGROUND: Improper control on reactive oxygen species (ROS) elimination process and formation of free radicals causes tissue dysfunction. Pineal hormone melatonin is considered a potent regulator of such oxidative damage in different vertebrates. Aim of the current communication is to evaluate the levels of oxidative stress and ROS induced damage, and amelioration of oxidative status through melatonin induced activation of signaling pathways. Hepatocytes were isolated from adult Labeo rohita and exposed to H2O2 at three different doses (12.5, 25 and 50 µM) to observe peroxide induced damage in fish hepatocytes. Melatonin (25, 50 and 100 µg/ml) was administered against the highest dose of H2O2. Enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants such as malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) was measured spectrophotometrically. Expression level of heat shock proteins (HSP70 and HSP90), HSPs-associated signaling molecules (Akt, ERK, cytosolic and nuclear NFkB), and melatonin receptor was also measured by western blotting analysis. RESULTS: H2O2 induced oxidative stress significantly altered (P < 0.05) MDA and GSH level, SOD and CAT activity, and up regulated HSP70 and HSP90 expression in carp hepatocytes. Signaling proteins exhibited differential modulation as revealed from their expression patterns in H2O2-exposed fish hepatocytes, in comparison with control hepatocytes. Melatonin treatment of H2O2-stressed fish hepatocytes restored basal cellular oxidative status in a dose dependent manner. Melatonin was observed to be inducer of signaling process by modulation of signaling molecules and melatonin receptor. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that exogenous melatonin at the concentration of 100 µg/ml is required to improve oxidative status of the H2O2-stressed fish hepatocytes. In H2O2 exposed hepatocytes, melatonin modulates expression of HSP70 and HSP90 that enable the hepatocytes to become stress tolerant and survive by altering the actions of ERK, Akt, cytosolic and nuclear NFkB in the signal transduction pathways. Study also confirms that melatonin could act through melatonin receptor coupled to ERK/Akt signaling pathways. This understanding of the mechanism by which melatonin regulates oxidative status in the stressed hepatocytes may initiate the development of novel strategies for hepatic disease therapy in future.

Transection of the hepatic parenchyma associated or not with the contralateral portal vein branch ligature and its effect in liver regeneration / Efeito da transecção do parênquima hepático associada ou não à ligadura contralateral da veia porta na regeneração hepática

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the influence of portal vein ligation in hepatic regeneration by immunohistochemical criteria. Methods Ten pigs divided into two groups of five animals underwent hepatectomy in two stages, and the groups were differentiated by ligation or not of the left portal vein tributary, which is responsible for vascularization of the left lateral and medial lobes of the pig liver. Five days after the procedure, the animals underwent liver biopsies for further analysis of histological and immunohistochemical with marker Ki67. Results The group submitted to hepatectomy with vascular ligation showed an increase of approximately 4% of hepatocytes in regeneration status, as well as a greater presence of Kupffer and inflammatory cells as compared to control. Conclusion As a result of positive cell replication observed through the Ki67 marker, we can suspect that the ligation of a tributary of the portal vein associated with liver resection promoted a greater stimulus of liver regeneration when compared to liver resection alone.

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar a influência da ligadura da tributária da veia porta no estímulo regenerativo hepático por meio de critérios imuno-histoquímicos. Métodos Dez suínos, divididos em dois grupos de cinco animais, foram submetidos à hepatectomia em dois estágios, sendo que os grupos foram diferenciados pela ligadura ou não da tributária da veia porta, responsável pela vascularização dos lobos lateral e medial esquerdos do fígado do suíno. Cinco dias após o procedimento, os animais foram reabordados para retirada de amostras hepáticas para posterior análise de histológica e imunoistoquímica com o marcador Ki67. Resultados O grupo submetido à hepatectomia com ligadura vascular apresentou incremento de 4% aproximadamente de hepatócitos em processo de regeneração, bem como grande número de células de Kupffer e células inflamatórias, quando comparado ao controle. Conclusão Em virtude da análise positiva da replicação celular observada por meio do marcador Ki67, pode-se observar que a ligadura de uma tributária da veia porta promoveu um maior estímulo de regeneração hepática, efeito observado com menor intensidade no grupo submetido apenas à ressecção hepática.

Management Strategies for Liver Fibrosis

Abstract: Liver fibrosis resulting from chronic liver injury are major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Among causes of hepatic fibrosis, viral infection is most common (hepatitis B and C). In addition, obesity rates worldwide have accelerated the risk of liver injury due to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Also liver fibrosis is associated with the consumption of alcohol, or autoimmune hepatitis and chronic cholangiophaties. The response of hepatocytes to inflammation plays a decisive role in the physiopathology of hepatic fibrosis, which involves the recruitment of both pro- and anti-inflammatory cells such as monocytes and macrophages. As well as the production of other cytokines and chemokines, which increase the stimulus of hepatic stellate cells by activating proinflammatory cells. The aim of this review is to identify the therapeutic options available for the treatment of the liver fibrosis, enabling the prevention of progression when is detected in time.

Uptake of DNA by cancer cells without a transfection reagent

BACKGROUND: Cancer cells exhibit elevated levels of glucose uptake and may obtain pre-formed, diet-derived fatty acids from the bloodstream to boost their rapid growth; they may also use nucleic acid from their microenvironment. The study of processing nucleic acid by cancer cells will help improve the understanding of the metabolism of cancer. DNA is commonly packaged into a viral or lipid particle to be transferred into cells; this process is called transfection in laboratory. Cancer cells are known for having gene mutations and the evolving ability of endocytosis. Their uptake of DNAs might be different from normal cells; they may take in DNAs directly from the environment. In this report, we studied the uptake of DNAs in cancer cells without a transfection reagent. METHODS: A group of DNA fragments were prepared with PCR and labeled with isotope phosphorous-32 to test their uptake by Huh 7 (liver cancer) and THLE3 (normal liver cells) after incubation overnight by counting radioactivity of the cells' genomic DNA. Multiple cell lines including breast cancer and lung cancer were tested with the same method. DNA molecules were also labeled with fluorescence to test the location in the cells using a kit of "label it fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH)" from Mirus (USA). RESULTS: The data demonstrated that hepatocellular carcinoma cells possess the ability to take in large DNA fragments directly without a transfection reagent whereas normal liver cells cannot. Huh7 and MDA-MB231 cells displayed a significantly higher Rhodamine density in the cytoplasmic phagosomes and this suggests that the mechanism of uptake of large DNA by cancer cells is likely endocytosis. The efficacy of uptake is related to the DNA's size. Some cell lines of lung cancer and breast cancer also showed similar uptake of DNA. CONCLUSIONS: In the present study, we have revealed the evidence that some cancer cells, but not nontumorigenic cells, can take DNA fragments directly from the environment without the aid of the transfecting reagent.

The effect of the aqueous extract Peumus boldus on the proliferation of hepatocytes and liver function in rats submitted to expanded hepatectomy

ABSTRACT PURPOSE: To assess the effect of aqueous extract of Peumus Boldus (AEPB) on the liver proliferative response after parcial hepatectomy of 70% (PH) in rodents. METHODS: Twenty Wistar rats were divided in two groups: AEPB100 (whose rats received 100mg/Kg of AEPB, once a day, orally, in 4 days prior to the first surgical procedure) and Vehicle (whose rats were treated similarly with distilled water). Both groups underwent PH. After 24 hours the remaining livers were removed for studying the proliferation of hepatocytes by Ki-67 and 2mL of blood were collected for serological assessment: cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and total, direct and indirect bilirubin. All data were analyzed by Gaussian distribution. Statistically significant differences between mean values were analyzed using T Student's test. Non-Gaussian data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney's test. RESULTS: The liver of all these rats presented positive staining of Ki-67, indicating liver proliferation. Laboratory results showed no significant difference in serum values between the analyzed groups. The analysis of Ki-67 was significantly more positive in AEPB100 group than in Vehicle group. CONCLUSION: Aqueous extract of Peumus Boldus acute administration exerts significant positive effect on liver regeneration after 24h in rats that underwent parcial hepatectomy, while maintaining unchanged hepatic function.

Depression as a Clinical Determinant of Dependence and Low Quality of Life in Elderly Patients with Cardiovascular Disease / Depressão como Determinante Clínico de Dependência e Baixa Qualidade de Vida em Idosos Cardiopatas

Background: The aging process promotes a progressive increase in chronic-degenerative diseases. The effect of these diseases on the functional capacity has been well recognized. Another health parameter concerns “quality of life related to health”. Among the elderly population, cardiovascular diseases stand out due to the epidemiological and clinical impact. Usually, these diseases have been associated with others. This set of problems may compromise both independence and quality of life in elderly patients who seek cardiologic treatment. These health parameters have not been well contemplated by cardiologists. Objective: Evaluating, among the elderly population with cardiovascular disease, which are the most relevant clinical determinants regarding dependence and quality of life. Methods: This group was randomly and consecutively selected and four questionnaires were applied: HAQ, SF-36, PRIME-MD e Mini Mental State. Results: The study included 1,020 elderly patients, 63.3% women. The group had been between 60 and 97 years-old (mean: 75.56 ± 6.62 years-old). 61.4% were independent or mild dependence. The quality of life total score was high (HAQ: 88.66 ± 2.68). 87.8% of patients had a SF-36 total score > 66. In the multivariate analysis, the association between diagnoses and high degrees of dependence was significant only for previous stroke (p = 0.014), obesity (p < 0.001), lack of physical activity (p = 0.016), osteoarthritis (p < 0.001), cognitive impairment (p < 0.001), and major depression (p < 0.001). Analyzing the quality of life, major depression and physical illness for depression was significantly associated with all domains of the SF-36. Conclusion: Among an elderly outpatient cardiology population, dependence and quality of life clinical determinants are not cardiovascular comorbidities, especially the depression. .

Fundamento: Com o envelhecimento, a prevalência de doenças crônico-degenerativas sofreu aumento progressivo. A repercussão dessas doenças sobre a capacidade funcional foi reconhecida. Outro parâmetro de saúde é a “qualidade de vida relacionada à saúde”. Na população idosa, as doenças cardiovasculares destacam-se pelo impacto epidemiológico e clínico. Elas, geralmente, vêm associadas a outras afecções. Esse conjunto de problemas pode comprometer a independência e a qualidade de vida do idoso que busca tratamento cardiológico. Objetivo: Avaliar, em uma população de idosos cardiopatas, quais são os determinantes clínicos mais relevantes de dependência e de qualidade de vida. Métodos: O grupo foi selecionado aleatória e consecutivamente, sendo aplicados quatro questionários: HAQ, SF-36, PRIME‑MD e Mini Exame do Estado Mental. Resultados: Incluiu-se 1020 idosos, 63,3% mulheres. O grupo tinha em média 75,56 ± 6,62 anos. 61,4% mostrou-se independente ou com dependência leve. O escore de qualidade de vida foi elevado (HAQ: 88,66 ± 2,68). 87,8% dos pacientes apresentou escore total do SF-36 ≥ 66. À análise multivariada, a associação entre os diagnósticos e graus elevados de dependência foi significante apenas para acidente vascular cerebral prévio (p = 0,014), obesidade (p < 0,001), sedentarismo (p = 0,016), osteoartrite (p < 0,001), déficit cognitivo (p < 0,001), e depressão maior (p < 0,001). Ao analisarmos a qualidade de vida, a depressão maior e a depressão por doença física associou-se significativamente com todos os domínios do SF-36. Conclusão: Em uma população de idosos cardiopatas, os determinantes clínicos mais relevantes de prejuízos para dependência e qualidade de vida foram as comorbidades não cardiovasculares, particularmente a depressão. .

Immediate expression of c-fos and c-jun mRNA in a model of intestinal autotransplantation and ischemia-reperfusion in situ

OBJECTIVE: Intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury occurs in several clinical conditions and after intestinal transplantation. The aim of the present study was to investigate the phenomena of apoptosis and cell proliferation in a previously described intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury autograft model using immunohistochemical markers. The molecular mechanisms involved in ischemia-reperfusion injury repair were also investigated by measuring the expression of the early activation genes c-fos and c-jun, which induce apoptosis and cell proliferation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Thirty adult male Wistar rats were subjected to surgery for a previously described ischemia-reperfusion model that preserved the small intestine, the cecum and the ascending colon. Following reperfusion, the cecum was harvested at different time points as a representative segment of the intestine. The rats were allocated to the following four subgroups according to the reperfusion time: subgroup 1: 5 min; subgroup 2: 15 min; subgroup 3: 30 min; and subgroup 4: 60 min. A control group of cecum samples was also collected. The expression of c-fos, c-jun and immunohistochemical markers of cell proliferation and apoptosis (Ki67 and TUNEL, respectively) was studied. RESULTS: The expression of both c-fos and c-jun in the cecum was increased beginning at 5 min after ischemia-reperfusion compared with the control. The expression of c-fos began to increase at 5 min, peaked at 30 min, and exhibited a declining tendency at 60 min after reperfusion. A progressive increase in c-jun expression was observed. Immunohistochemical analyses confirmed these observations. CONCLUSION: The early activation of the c-fos and c-jun genes occurred after intestinal ischemia-reperfusion injury, and these genes can act together to trigger cell proliferation and apoptosis. .

Continued administration of antithrombotic agents during transperineal prostate biopsy

Purpose To determine the safety of continued administration of antithrombotic agents during transperineal (TP) prostate biopsy. Patients and Methods A total of 811 men who underwent transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided TP biopsy from January 2008 to June 2012 at our two institutions were retrospectively analyzed. Among these 811 men, 672 received no antithrombotic agents (group I), 103 received and continued administration of antithrombotic agents (group II), and 36 interrupted administration of antithrombotic agents (group III). Overall complications were graded and hemorrhagic complications were compared (group I with group II) using propensity score matching (PSM) analysis. Results An overall complication rate of 4.6% was recorded. Hemorrhagic complications occurred in 1.8% and they were virtually identical in all the three groups, and no severe hemorrhagic complications occurred. One patient in group III required intensive care unit admission for cerebral infarction. PSM analysis revealed no statistical difference between groups I and II with regard to the incidence of gross hematuria, perineal hematoma, and rectal bleeding. Multiple regression analysis revealed that hemorrhagic complications were associated with lower body mass index (<21 kg/m2, P=0.0058), but not with administration of antithrombotic agents. Conclusions Continued administration of antithrombotic agents does not increase the risk of hemorrhagic complications; these agents are well tolerated during TP biopsy. .

Effects of HO-1 on Lipopolysaccharide-induced Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress of Rat Hepatocytes / 法医学杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate effects of antioxidant stress protein heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) of rat hepatocytes.@*METHODS@#The BRL cells (rat hepatocyte cell line) were cultured. The hepatocytes were treated with LPS, LPS+HO-1 siRNA, HO-1 siRNA and PBS solution, respectively. The cell viability was measured by trypan blue exclusion test. The apoptosis cells were detected by the fluorescent dye Hoechst 33258. Expressions of GRP78, CHOP, caspase-12 and HO-1 were detected by Western blotting.@*RESULTS@#LPS caused an increase of HO-1 protein expression of rat hepatocytes in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner, a up-regulation of GRP78, CHOP and caspase-12, a decrease in cell viability, and an increase in apoptosis rate of hepatocytes. Pretreatment of HO-1 siRNA inhibited the up-regulation of LPS-induced HO-1, however, aggravated ERS and cellular injury.@*CONCLUSION@#HO-1 inhibites ERS-mediated cellular injury of rat hepatocytes induced by LPS.

Sox2 function as a negative regulator to control HAMP expression

BACKGROUND: Hepcidin, encoding by HAMP gene, is the pivotal regulator of iron metabolism, controlling the systemic absorption and transportation of irons from intracellular stores. Abnormal levels of HAMP expression alter plasma iron parameters and lead to iron metabolism disorders. Therefore,itis animportant goal to understand the mechanisms controlling HAMP gene expression. RESULTS: Overexpression of Sox2 decrease basal expression of HAMP or induced by IL-6 or BMP-2, whereas, knockdown of Sox2 can increase HAMP expression, furthermore, two potential Sox2-binding sites were identified within the human HAMP promoter. Indeed, luciferase experiments demonstrated that deletion of any Sox2-binding site impaired the negative regulation of Sox2 on HAMP promoter transcriptional activity in basal conditions. ChIP experiments showed that Sox2 could directly bind to these sites. Finally, we verified the role of Sox2 to negatively regulate HAMP expression in human primary hepatocytes. CONCLUSION: We found that Sox2 as a novel factor to bind with HAMP promoter to negatively regulate HAMP expression, which may be further implicated as a therapeutic option for the amelioration of HAMP-overexpression-related diseases, including iron deficiency anemia.

From DCPD to NTCP: The long journey towards identifying a functional hepatitis B virus receptor

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is the prototype of hepatotropic DNA viruses (hepadnaviruses) infecting a wide range of human and non-human hosts. Previous studies with duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) identified duck carboxypeptidase D (dCPD) as a host specific binding partner for full-length large envelope protein, and p120 as a binding partner for several truncated versions of the large envelope protein. p120 is the P protein of duck glycine decarboxylase (dGLDC) with restricted expression in DHBV infectible tissues. Several lines of evidence suggest the importance of dCPD, and especially p120, in productive DHBV infection, although neither dCPD nor p120 cDNA could confer susceptibility to DHBV infection in any cell line. Recently, sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) has been identified as a binding partner for the N-terminus of HBV large envelope protein. Importantly, knock down and reconstitution experiments unequivocally demonstrated that NTCP is both necessary and sufficient for in vitro infection by HBV and hepatitis delta virus (HDV), an RNA virus using HBV envelope proteins for its transmission. What remains unclear is whether NTCP is the major HBV receptor in vivo. The fact that some HBV patients are homozygous with an NTCP mutation known to abolish its receptor function suggests the existence of NTCP-independent pathways of HBV entry. Also, NTCP very likely mediates just one step of the HBV entry process, with additional co-factors for productive HBV infection still to be discovered. NTCP offers a novel therapeutic target for the control of chronic HBV infection.

Expression of Glucose Transporters 1 and 3 in Metastatic and Non-Metastatic Lower Lip Squamous Cell Carcinoma

This study aimed to evaluate the immunoexpression of glucose transporters 1 (GLUT-1) and 3 (GLUT-3) in metastatic and non-metastatic lower lip squamous cell carcinoma (LLSCC). Twenty LLSCCs with regional nodal metastasis and 20 LLSCCs without metastasis were selected. The distribution of staining and the percentage of GLUT-1 and GLUT-3 staining in each tumor core and at the deep invasive front were assessed. Most tumors (70%) exhibited peripheral staining for GLUT-1 in nests, sheets and islands of neoplastic cells, whereas predominantly central staining was observed for GLUT-3 (72.5%). A high percentage of GLUT-1-positive cells was observed at the deep invasive front and in the tumor core of metastatic and non-metastatic tumors (p>0.05). The percentage of GLUT-1-positive cells was much higher than that of GLUT-3-positive cells both in the deep invasive front (p<0.001) and in the tumor core (p<0.001) of LLSCCs. No significant differences in the percentage of GLUT-1- and GLUT-3-positive cells were observed according to nodal metastasis, clinical stage or histological grade of malignancy (p>0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest an important role of GLUT-1 in glucose uptake in LLSCCs, although this protein does not seem to be involved in the progression of these tumors. On the other hand, GLUT-3 expression may represent a secondary glucose uptake mechanism in LLSCCs.

Este estudo objetivou avaliar a imunoexpressão dos transportadores de glicose 1 (GLUT-1) e 3 (GLUT-3) em carcinomas de células escamosas de lábio inferior (CCELI) metastáticos e não-metastáticos. Vinte CCELIs com metástase nodal regional e 20 CCELI sem metástase foram selecionados. Foram analisados a distribuição da imunomarcação e o percentual de imunorreatividade para GLUT-1 e GLUT-3 no centro tumoral e no front de invasão tumoral. A maioria dos tumores (70%) revelou marcação para GLUT-1 em áreas periféricas dos ninhos, lençóis e ilhas de células neoplásicas, ao passo que GLUT-3 revelou predomínio de marcação em áreas centrais (72.5%). Um alto percentual de células positivas para GLUT-1 foi observado no front de invasão e no centro tumoral das lesões metastáticas e não-metastáticas (p>0,05). O percentual de células positivas para GLUT-1 foi superior ao percentual de células positivas para GLUT-3, tanto no front de invasão (p<0,001) quanto no centro tumoral (p<0,001) dos CCELIs. Não foram observadas diferenças significativas no percentual de células positivas para GLUT-1 e GLUT-3 em relação à mestástase nodal, ao estádio clínico ou ao grau histológico de malignidade (p>0,05). Em conclusão, os resultados do presente estudo sugerem um importante papel para GLUT-1 na absorção de glicose nos CCELIs, embora esta proteína não pareça estar envolvida na progressão destes tumores. Por outro lado, a expressão de GLUT-3 pode representar um mecanismo secundário para a absorção de glicose nos CCELIs.

Instrumento para avaliação da qualidade do Time de Resposta Rápida em um hospital universitário público / Instrument for assessing the quality of the Rapid Response Team at a university public hospital / Instrumento para la evaluación de la calidad del Equipo de Respuesta Rápida en un hospital universitario público

O artigo descreve a construção de um questionário para avaliação da qualidade do atendimento de um Time de Resposta Rápida, em Hospital Universitário de Londrina-PR, fundamentado no modelo conceitual de Donabedian (estrutura-processoresultado). A coleta de dados ocorreu no mês de março de 2012 e o processo de adequação do questionário foi desenvolvido com a aplicação da Técnica Delphi com a participação de 15 especialistas. Ao término do estudo obteve-se um questionário com 37 enunciados, sendo alcançado índice de concordância final na pesquisa com valores superiores a 80% para todos os conceitos. Espera-se que as contribuições do grupo de especialistas tornem o instrumento confiável e seja aplicado em outros serviços semelhantes. Aplicações futuras deste instrumento poderão trazer subsídios para melhor avaliação da qualidade dos serviços de equipes de Resposta Rápida.

The paper describes the construction of a questionnaire to assess the quality of care of a Rapid Response Team at the University Hospital of Londrina, based on the conceptual model of Donabedian (structure-process-outcome). Data collection occurred in March 2012 and the process of adjusting the questionnaire was developed with the application of the Delphi technique involving 15 experts. At the end of the study the questionnaire contained 37 statements, achieving final compliance level higher than 80% in all concepts. It is hoped that the contributions of the expert group produce a more reliable questionnaire to be applied in other similar services. Future applications of this instrument may provide information to better assess the quality of teams of Rapid Response services.

El artículo describe la construcción de un cuestionario para la evaluación de la calidad de la atención de un Equipo de Respuesta Rápida en un Hospital Universitario de Londrina, Paraná, basado en el modelo conceptual de Donabedian (estructura-procesoresultado). La recolección de datos ocurrió durante el mes de marzo de 2012 y el proceso de ajuste del cuestionario fue desarrollado por medio de la Técnica Delphi con la participación de 15 especialistas. Al término del estudio se obtuvo un cuestionario con 37 enunciados, alcanzándose un índice de concordancia final en la investigación con valores superiores al 80% para todos los conceptos. Se espera que las contribuciones del grupo de especialistas afiancen la confiabilidad del instrumento y que el cuestionario sea utilizado en otros servicios semejantes. Las aplicaciones futuras podrán traer subsidios para evaluar mejor la calidad de los servicios de los equipos de Respuesta Rápida.

Butein imparts free radical scavenging, anti-oxidative and pro-apoptotic properties in the flower extracts of Butea monosperma

The flower of Butea monosperma (Lam.) (Fabaceae) has been used in traditional Indian medicine in the treatment of many ailments including liver disorders. To understand the pharmacological basis of its beneficial effects, the extracts of dried flowers in water, methanol, butanol, ethyl acetate and acetone were evaluated for free radical scavenging and pro-apoptotic activities in cell cultures (human hepatoma Huh-7 cell line and immortalized AML-12 mouse hepatocytes). Butrin and butein -the active constituents of flower extracts- were used as reference molecules. The levels of cell injury markers like lactate dehydrogenase, glutathione and lipid peroxidation and primary antioxidant enzymes glutathione S-transferase and catalase were also measured. The aqueous and butanolic extracts exhibited better 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging and cytotoxic activities in hepatoma cells than in immortalized hepatocytes. Interestingly, butein inhibited 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical better than butrin. The aqueous and butanolic extracts were further investigated for hepatoprotection against carbon tertrachloride-induced biochemical changes and cell death. Both extracts, just as butrin and butein, significantly reversed the cellular glutathione levels and lipid peroxidation, and glutathione-S-transferase activity. Lactate dehydrogenase leakage and cell death were also prevented. However, only butein revived the catalase activity. Thus, the butein content of Butea monosperma flower extracts is important for free radical scavenging activity, apoptotic cell death and protection against oxidative injury in hepatic cells.

Chi-square analysis of the reduction of ATP levels in L-02 hepatocytes by hexavalent chromium

This study explored the reduction of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in L-02 hepatocytes by hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) using chi-square analysis. Cells were treated with 2, 4, 8, 16, or 32 μM Cr(VI) for 12, 24, or 36 h. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium (MTT) experiments and measurements of intracellular ATP levels were performed by spectrophotometry or bioluminescence assays following Cr(VI) treatment. The chi-square test was used to determine the difference between cell survival rate and ATP levels. For the chi-square analysis, the results of the MTT or ATP experiments were transformed into a relative ratio with respect to the control (%). The relative ATP levels increased at 12 h, decreased at 24 h, and increased slightly again at 36 h following 4, 8, 16, 32 μM Cr(VI) treatment, corresponding to a "V-shaped" curve. Furthermore, the results of the chi-square analysis demonstrated a significant difference of the ATP level in the 32-μM Cr(VI) group (P < 0.05). The results suggest that the chi-square test can be applied to analyze the interference effects of Cr(VI) on ATP levels in L-02 hepatocytes. The decreased ATP levels at 24 h indicated disruption of mitochondrial energy metabolism and the slight increase of ATP levels at 36 h indicated partial recovery of mitochondrial function or activated glycolysis in L-02 hepatocytes.