Identification of functionally distinct Na-HCO3 co-transporters in colon.

Na-HCO3 cotransport (NBC) regulates intracellular pH (pHi) and HCO3 secretion in rat colon. NBC has been characterized as a 5,5'-diisothiocyanato-2-2'-stilbene (DIDS)-sensitive transporter in several tissues, while the colonic NBC is sensitive to both amiloride and DIDS. In addition, the colonic NBC has been identified as critical for pHi regulation as it is activated by intravesicular acid pH. Molecular studies have identified several characteristically distinct NBC isoforms [i.e. electrogenic (NBCe) and electroneutral (NBCn)] that exhibit tissue specific expression. This study was initiated to establish the molecular identity and specific function of NBC isoforms in rat colon. Northern blot and reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) analyses revealed that electrogenic NBCe1B or NBCe1C (NBCe1B/C) isoform is predominantly expressed in proximal colon, while electroneutral NBCn1C or NBCn1D (NBCn1C/D) is expressed in both proximal and distal colon. Functional analyses revealed that amiloride-insensitive, electrogenic, pH gradient-dependent NBC activity is present only in basolateral membranes of proximal colon. In contrast, amiloride-sensitive, electroneutral, [H(+)]-dependent NBC activity is present in both proximal and distal colon. Both electrogenic and electroneutral NBC activities are saturable processes with an apparent Km for Na of 7.3 and 4.3 mM, respectively; and are DIDS-sensitive with apparent Ki of 8.9 and 263.8 µM, respectively. In addition to Na-H exchanger isoform-1 (NHE1), pHi acidification is regulated by a HCO3-dependent mechanism that is HOE694-insensitive in colonic crypt glands. We conclude from these data that electroneutral, amiloride-sensitive NBC is encoded by NBCn1C/D and is present in both proximal and distal colon, while NBCe1B/C encodes electrogenic, amiloride-insensitive Na-HCO3 cotransport in proximal colon. We also conclude that NBCn1C/D regulates HCO3-dependent HOE694-insensitive Na-HCO3 cotransport and plays a critical role in pHi regulation in colonic epithelial cells.

CASE REPORT Temporomandibular Joint Arthroplasty With Human Amniotic Membrane: A Case Report.

This case reports the usage of human amniotic membrane combined with a costochondral graft as an interpositional material in temporomandibular joint reconstruction for the first time in humans. Because of the favorable outcome 20 months postoperatively, it has to be considered as an approach bringing to light the antiadhesive potential of amniotic membrane. This case report must be regarded as initial spadework and should motivate other institutions to intensify their clinical research in this field. Because of the fact that currently used interpositional materials do not prevent the recurrence of temporomandibular joint ankylosis sufficiently, it is of great interest to establish a proper therapeutic intervention fulfilling these demands. Furthermore, the demonstrated antiadhesive properties of amniotic membrane highlight its multifaceted field of application. Nevertheless, further studies have to prove the findings reported in our case.