Characterization and secreted expression of dengue virus type I-IV envelope glycoprotein domain III in Pichia pastoris / 中华预防医学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To achieve secretory and extracellular production of recombinant dengue virus serotypes I-IV envelope glycoprotein domain III (DENV-1-4 EDIII) in Pichia pastoris.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>EDIII genes of DENVI-IV were amplified and cloned into vector pPIC9K, respectively. These recombinant plasmids were then linearized and transferred into Pichia pastoris strain GS115. Clones highly produced in 4.0 mg/ml G418 were amplified and induced by methanol to achieve the secreted recombinant proteins. Ni-NTA agarose beads were used for purification, while SDS-PAGE and Western blotting were used for identification.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The recombinant plasmids pPIC9K-DENV-1-4 EDIII were constructed and successfully transferred into Pichia pastoris strain GS115. The recombinant EDIII proteins were expressed in a secretory way with the molecular weight about 12 × 10(3) and specifically identified by anti-His monoclonal antibody and anti-DENVI-IV mice sera.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>DENVI-IV EDIII proteins are successfully achieved from Pichia pastoris expression system and could be used for development of dengue vaccines, diagnostic reagents and study of biological function of the E protein.</p>

Pharmacognostic studies on Desmodium gyrans / 中国中药杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the characteristic features of Desmodium gyrans in order to provide a basis for rational exploitation and utilization of the herb.</p><p><b>METHOD</b>Samples of the title plant were collected, the microscopic features of cross sections and powders were studied. TLC profiles and UV absorption of the plant extract were examined.</p><p><b>RESULT</b>Calcium oxalate crystals were found in cells of transverse sections. Nonglandular hairs were observed on leaf surfaces. Characteristic peaks in the UV spectrum were identified.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The distinct characteristic features revealed in this studies can serve as evidence for the identification of D. gyrans.</p>