Core promoters of the penicillin biosynthesis genes and quantitative RT-PCR analysis of these genes in high and low production strain of Penicillium chrysogenum.

The transcription start points of the penicillin biosynthesis genes from Penicillium chrysogenum were mapped using the primer extension method. For each of the three genes consensus sequences of the core promoter elements were identified, supporting the notion that the basal transcription of these genes is mediated separately. Interestingly, transcription start of the pcbC gene is located within the potential Inr element with no TATA box-like sequence being found at expected position. This is in contrast to pcbAB and penDE genes with proposed TATA boxes or even to Aspergillus nidulans ipnA (pcbC) gene indicating possible differences in basal transcription regulation. Using the quantitative RT-PCR analysis the expression of all three biosynthesis genes was monitored in both the high and low production strain of P. chrysogenum during a 3-d cultivation under production conditions. The differences were found between the strains in time regulation and transcript levels of the biosynthesis genes. Furthermore, we showed that the effect of higher gene dosage on productivity in the production strain is amplified by more efficient transcription of the biosynthesis genes with the RNA levels approximately 37- and 12-times higher, respectively, than in a low production strain.

Biotechnological preparation of the elaiophylin.

Sporulation conditions (sporulation period and the sporulation broth) of the elaiophylin producer Streptomyces melanosporofaciens were optimized. The best culture sporulation was on agar broths with dextrin or hydrolyzed corn starch as carbon sources.

[Diagnostic problems in uveitis]. / Problematika diagnostiky uveitid.

The authors examined and followed up for two years 102 subjects who were referred to the First Ophthalmological Clinic of the First Medical Faculty, Charles University, Prague on account of idiopathic uveitis. They used a wide range of examination methods by means of which they were able to differentiate idiopathic uveitis from anterior uveitis with the presence of HLA B27, Fuchs disease and Eales disease. A quarter of the patients suffered from general disease, internal or neurological, where uveitis can be one of the symptoms. This disease was not diagnosed at the time of exacerbation of uveitis. The authors describe a series of examination methods and their contribution to the assessment of the correct diagnosis. They discuss the development of views regarding the diagnosis of idiopathic uveitis and views on the treatment of this disease.