In previous study we reported that pretreatment with plasmolysis enhanced somatic embryo formation in hypocotyls of Eleutherococcus senticosus.In the present study,the expression level of callose synthase gene in embr...In previous study we reported that pretreatment with plasmolysis enhanced somatic embryo formation in hypocotyls of Eleutherococcus senticosus.In the present study,the expression level of callose synthase gene in embryos of E.senticosus in response to 2,4-D,sucrose and mannitol treatments was analyzed by RT-PCR.The results show that plasmolysis pretreatment using sucrose and mannitol significantly promoted the expression of callose synthase gene.Also,the thicker cell walls of explant plasmolyzed compared with controls were observed during the somatic embryogenesis.We suggest that the callose may make the cells in epidermis separate from neighboring cells and then develop into embryogenic potential cells.展开更多
Objective To explore the effects of zinc-0t2-glycoprotein （ZAG） on body weight and body fat in high-fat-diet （HF1））-induced obesity in mice and the possible mechanism. Methods Thirty-six male mice were fed with ...Objective To explore the effects of zinc-0t2-glycoprotein （ZAG） on body weight and body fat in high-fat-diet （HF1））-induced obesity in mice and the possible mechanism. Methods Thirty-six male mice were fed with standard food （SF） （n=9） and HFD （n=27）, respectively. Five weeks later, 9 mice fed with HFD were subjected to ZAG expression plasmid DNA transfection by liposome transfection method, and another 9 mice to negative control plasmid transfection. Two weeks later, serum ZAG level in the mice was assayed by Western blot, and the effects of ZAG over-expression on body weight, body fat, serum biochemical indexes, and adipose tissue of obese mice were evaluated. The mRNA expressions of fatty acid synthase （FAS） and hormone sensitive lipase （HSL） in liver tissue were deterlnined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Results Serum ZAG level significantly lowered in simple HFD-fed mice in comparison to SF-fed mice （0.51±0.10 AU vs. 0.75±0.07 AU, P〈0.01）. Further statistical analysis demonstrated that ZAG level was negatively correlated with body weight （r =-0.56, P〈0.001）, epididymal fat mass （r=-0.67, P〈O. 001）, percentage of epididymal fat （r= 0.65, P〈0.001）, and increased weight （r= 0.57, P〈0.001） in simple SF- and HFD fed mice. ZAG over-expression in obese mice reduced body weight and the percentage of epididyreal fat. Furthermore, FAS mRNA expression decreased （P〈0.01） and HSL mRNA expression increased （P〈0.001） in the liver in ZAG over-expressing mice. Conclusions ZAG is closely related to obesity. Serum ZAG level is inversely correlated with body weight and percentage of body fat. The action of ZAG is associated with reduced FAS expression and increased HSL expression in the liver of obese mice.展开更多
Objective To examine whether the polymorphisms of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene are associated with the susceptibility to high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) in Chinese railway construction workers at...Objective To examine whether the polymorphisms of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene are associated with the susceptibility to high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) in Chinese railway construction workers at Qinghai-Tibet where the altitude is over 4 500 m above sea level. Methods A case-control study was conducted including 149 HAPE patients in the construction workers and 160 healthy controls randomly recruited from their co-workers, matching the patients in ethnicity, age, sex, lifestyle, and working conditions. Three polymorphisms of eNOS gene, T-786C in promoter, 894G/T in exon 7, and 27bp variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) in intron 4, were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and confirmed with DNA sequencing. Results The frequencies of 894T allele and heterozygous G/T of the 894G/T variant were significantly higher in HAPE patients group than in the control group (P=0.0028 and P=0.0047, respectively). However, the frequencies of the T-786C in promoter and the 27bp VNTR in intron 4 were not significantly different between the two groups. Haplotypic analysis revealed that the frequencies of two haplotypes (H3,T-T-b, b indicates 5 repeats of 27 bp VNTR; H6, C-G-a, a indicates 4 repeats of 27 bp VNTR) were significantly higher in HAPE patients (both P<0.0001). On the contrary, the frequencies of H1 (T-G-b) and H2 (T-G-a) were lower in HAPE patients than in healthy controls (both P<0.001). Conclusions Two haplotypes (T-T-b and C-G-a) may be strongly associated with susceptibility to HAPE. Compared with the individual alleles of eNOS gene, the interaction of multiple genetic markers within a haplotype may be a major determinant for the susceptibility to HAPE.展开更多
Syringa species are important ornamentals with strong floral scent,of which monoterpenes are the main component.In this study,a new monoterpene synthase gene,named SoLIM,was collected from the flowers of Syringa oblat...Syringa species are important ornamentals with strong floral scent,of which monoterpenes are the main component.In this study,a new monoterpene synthase gene,named SoLIM,was collected from the flowers of Syringa oblata and S.oblata var.alba using a homologous cloning method.The full-length cDNA of SoLIM was1746 bp and encoded 581 amino acids.Sequence analysis showed that SoLIM contained the DDxxD and RRx8 W motifs,which are two typical conserved monoterpene synthase motifs,and was thus classified as belonging to the Tpsb subfamily.Using quantitative reverse-transcription PCR,SoLIM was significantly expressed in the petals and pistils of S.oblata and S.oblata var.alba,respectively.SoLIM expression peaked earlier than the D-limonene emissions in the diurnal experiments,but occurred later when D-limonene had peaked during the flowering phase,indicating that differences in SoLIM gene expression and D-limonene emissions existed.The synthesis of floral scent is thus associated with diverse regulatory mechanisms that require further investigation.展开更多
A 3 125 bp cellulose synthase gene, PtoCesA1, which has a 98% identity to PtrCesA1 from Populus tremuloides, was cloned from cDNA prepared from secondary xylem of P tomentosa. Four anti-expression vectors with differe...A 3 125 bp cellulose synthase gene, PtoCesA1, which has a 98% identity to PtrCesA1 from Populus tremuloides, was cloned from cDNA prepared from secondary xylem of P tomentosa. Four anti-expression vectors with different fragments of PtoCesAl, named as pBIPF, pBICC1, pBIPR and pBIBR, were constructed. Some traits of transformed tobacco of pBICC1, pBIPR and pBIBR differed from wild types, such as small leaves, ＂dwarf＂ phenotype and thinner xylem and fiber cell walls than wild plants consistent with a loss of cellulose. It indicated that the growth of transgenic tobacco was restrained by the expression of anti-PtoCesA1. Transgenic tobacco was obtained and the contents of cellulose and lignin were analyzed as well as the width and length of fiber cells, and xylem thickness for both transgenic and control plants. Transformed tobacco showed a different phenotype from control plants and it implied that PtoCesA1 was essential for the cellulose biosynthesis in poplar stems.展开更多
Objective: To investigate whether nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is expressed in T-cell-dependent liver injury initiated by concanavalin A (ConA) in Kunming mice and study the possible effect of nitric oxide(NO) on liver...Objective: To investigate whether nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is expressed in T-cell-dependent liver injury initiated by concanavalin A (ConA) in Kunming mice and study the possible effect of nitric oxide(NO) on liver injury models. Methods: Liver injury in Kunming mice was induced by administration of ConA through tail vein. Expression of NOS in the liver was detected by NADPH diaphorase staining method. The possible effect of NO on liver injury models was obtained by L-NAME injection to suppress synthesis of NO. Results: NOS has a strong expression in hepatocytes after ConA injection, especially in those close to the central vein, while only a weak expression was found in the epithelial cells in control group. Liver injury became more serious when NO synthesis was inhibited by L-NAME, accompanied by great malondialdehyde(MDA) increase in serum and severe intrahepatic vascular thrombosis. Conclusion: NOS markedly expressed in ConA-induced liver injury, which may subsequently promote nitric oxide synthesis. Increasement of nitric oxide has a protective effect on ConA-induced liver injury.展开更多
Objective： To clone and construct the recombinant plasmid containing ATP synthase lipid-binding protein-like protein gene of Schistosomajaponicum,（SjAslp） and transfer it into mammalian cells to express the objecti...Objective： To clone and construct the recombinant plasmid containing ATP synthase lipid-binding protein-like protein gene of Schistosomajaponicum,（SjAslp） and transfer it into mammalian cells to express the objective protein. Methods： By polymerase chain reaction （PCR） technique, SjAslp was amplified from the constructed recombinant plasmid pBCSK＋/SjAslp, and inserted into cloning vector pUCm-T. Then, SjAslp was subcloned into an eukaryotic expression vector pcDNA3.1（＋）. After identifying it by PCR, restrictive enzymes digestion and DNA sequencing, the recombinant plasmid was transfected into HeLa cells using electroporation, and the expression of the recombinant protein was analyzed by immunocytochemical assay. Results： The specific gene fragment of 558 bp was successfully amplified. The DNA vaccine of SjAslp was successfully constructed. Immunocytochemical assay showed that SjAslp was expressed in the cytoplasm of HeLa cells. Conclusion： SjAslp gene can be expressed in eukaryotic system, which lays the foundation for development of the SjAslp DNA vaccine against schitosomiasis.展开更多
ATP synthase is a rotary motor which is composed of two portions： the ‘rotor＇ Fo, consisting of a c-ring, and the ‘stator＇ F1, consisting of an a3/33 hexamer. In different species, the number of c-subunits which ...ATP synthase is a rotary motor which is composed of two portions： the ‘rotor＇ Fo, consisting of a c-ring, and the ‘stator＇ F1, consisting of an a3/33 hexamer. In different species, the number of c-subunits which form the c-ring is varied from 10 to 14, whereas the a3/33 hexamer is fixed to be 3-fold symmetrical. We have numerically studied the rotational coupling between Fo with varied number of c-subunits and F1. It is found that, for any number of c-subunits, the rotor Fo advances 3 steps per revolution on average, which is determined by the period of F1, whereas the exact angular pausing positions are determined by the period of Fo. When the symmetry of the c-ring of Fo is matched with the 3-fold symmetry of F1, the three steps have equivalent sizes. If not matched, the three steps become nonequivalent： both the step size and average dwell time are different for these steps.展开更多
Squalene and oxidosqualene cyclizations are regarded as the most complex chemical reactions in the nature,which can achieve protonation,deprotonation,a sequence of hydride and methyl migration. Dammarenediol-Ⅱ synth...Squalene and oxidosqualene cyclizations are regarded as the most complex chemical reactions in the nature,which can achieve protonation,deprotonation,a sequence of hydride and methyl migration. Dammarenediol-Ⅱ synthase（ DS）,as a kind of 2,3-oxidosqualene-triterpene cyclase,catalyses2,3-oxidosqualene to form dammarenediol-Ⅱ. To assess the three-dimensional（ 3 D） structure and catalytic active sites of dammarenediol-Ⅱ synthase,utilizing the homology modeling method,3 D models of DS were established in the Modeller9 v14 software and I-TASSER server. With the highest sequence identity with DS,human oxidosqualene cyclase 3 D models（ PDB： 1 W6K and 1 W6J） were chosen as templates. Through further evaluation and optimization,an optimal DS model was obtained consequently. Then several putative catalytic active sites were found through the molecular docking simulation between DS model and product dammarenediol-Ⅱ by using Autodock 4. 2. Finally,site-directed mutants of DS were expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae,a significant decrease of the yield of dammarenediol-Ⅱ is achieved,which verified the significance of these putative active sites.展开更多
In the present study,the localization of nitric oxide synthase(NOS) in the mouse intestines(duodenum,jejunum,ileum and proximal segment of large intestine) was observed using NADPH-diaphorase(ND) histochemical techniq...In the present study,the localization of nitric oxide synthase(NOS) in the mouse intestines(duodenum,jejunum,ileum and proximal segment of large intestine) was observed using NADPH-diaphorase(ND) histochemical technique.The results showed that the NOS-pos展开更多
Background: To investigate the effects of unsafe decompression on rat pulmonary endothelial function and its relevant mechanisms.Methods: Sixty male Sprague-Dawley(SD) rats were randomly divided into a control group(n...Background: To investigate the effects of unsafe decompression on rat pulmonary endothelial function and its relevant mechanisms.Methods: Sixty male Sprague-Dawley(SD) rats were randomly divided into a control group(n=30) and a decompression sickness(DCS) group(n=30). The DCS model was established by placing the rats in the DCS group in a pressurized cabin where they were exposed to a 600 k Pa compressed air environment for 60 min, and the pressure was then reduced by 100 k Pa/min until it reached atmospheric pressure. After the surviving rats in the DCS group and the rats in the control group were anesthetized, their pulmonary arteries were stripped to test the in vitro pulmonary artery endothelium-dependent vasodilation capacity. Western blotting was used to measure the expression and dissociation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase(e NOS) in pulmonary artery tissues and all protein nitration levels in pulmonary artery tissues; reactive oxygen species(ROS) formation was measured via in vitro pulmonary artery superoxide anion probe dihydroethidium(DHE) staining.Results: After experiencing unsafe decompression, 10 of the 30 rats in the DCS group died. The pulmonary artery endothelium-dependent vasodilation capacity in the surviving rats decreased significantly(P<0.05). The difference in e NOS expression between the DCS group and the control group was statistically insignificant(P>0.05), but the ratio of e NOS monomer/dimer in the DCS group was significantly higher than that in the control group(P<0.05). All protein tyrosine nitration levels in the pulmonary artery tissues of the DCS group were significantly higher than those of the control group(P<0.05). The results of DHE staining showed that the amount of ROS formation in the pulmonary arteries of the DCS group was significantly higher than that of the control group(P<0.05).Conclusion: Unsafe decompression during a simulated submarine escape process can lead to e NOS dimer uncoupling in the pulmonary artery endothelium. The dissociated e NOS monomer cannot synthesize nitric oxide(NO) and thus affect the endothelium-dependent vasodilation capacity. The e NOS monomer can promote peroxynitrite(ONOO–) synthesis, leading to an increase in protein tyrosine nitration levels in pulmonary artery tissues and causing disorder in cell cycle regulation. The e NOS monomer can also cause an increase in the formation of ROS and thus mediate peroxidation damage.展开更多
in order to understand the dynamic change of nitric oxide (NO) and its pathological significance during intestinal radiation sickness, we gave mice 60Co γ-ray irradiation and sacrificed them after different periods o...in order to understand the dynamic change of nitric oxide (NO) and its pathological significance during intestinal radiation sickness, we gave mice 60Co γ-ray irradiation and sacrificed them after different periods of survival.The dynamic distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the small intestines (duodenum, jejunum and ileum) was studied by using NADPH-diaphorase histochemistry. The results showed that in the animal groups that survived 48 h and 72 h after irradiation (the 48 h and 72 h groups), the number of NOS-positive neuronal bodies and the density of NOS-positive fibers increased obviously in the myenteric plexus and deep muscular plexus as compared with the control group. The neuronal bodies and fibers were stained intensely. The NOS-positive reaction product in the glandular cavities of the intestines and on the mucosa also increased. The results suggest that the activation of NOS or increase of NO production might be one of the main causes of intestinal and vascular dilatation during intestinal radiation sickness.展开更多
Sesquiterpenes are the major pharmacodynamic components of agarwood,a precious traditional Chinese medicine obtained from the resinous portions of Aquilaria sinensis trees that form in response to environmental stress...Sesquiterpenes are the major pharmacodynamic components of agarwood,a precious traditional Chinese medicine obtained from the resinous portions of Aquilaria sinensis trees that form in response to environmental stressors.To characterize the sesquiterpene synthases responsible for sesquiterpene production in A.sinensis,a bioinformatics analysis of the genome of A.sinensis identifi ed six new terpene synthase genes,and 16 sesquiterpene synthase genes were identifi ed as type TPS-a in a phylogenetic analysis.The expression patterns for eight of the sesquiterpene synthase genes after treatment with various hormones or hydrogen peroxide were analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR.The results suggest that 100μM methyl jasmonate,ethephon,(±)-abscisic acid or hydrogen peroxide could be eff ective short-term eff ectors to increase the expression of sesquiterpene synthase genes,while 1 mM methyl salicylate may have long-term eff ects on increasing the expression of specifi c sesquiterpene synthase genes(e.g.,As-SesTPS,AsVS,AsTPS12 and AsTPS29).The expression changes in these genes under various conditions refl ected their specifi c roles during abiotic or biotic stresses.Heterologous expression of a novel A.sinensis sesquiterpene synthase gene,AsTPS2,in Escherichia coli produced a major humulene product,so AsTPS2 is renamed AsHS1.AsHS1 is diff erent from ASS1,AsSesTPS,and AsVS,for mainly producingα-humulene.Based on the predicted space conformation of the AsHS1 model,the small ligand molecule may bind to the free amino acid by hydrogen bonding for the catalytic function of the enzyme,while the substrate farnesyl diphosphate(FPP)probably binds to the free amino acid on one side of the RxR motif.Arg450,Asp453,Asp454,Thr457,and Glu461 from the NSE/DTE motif and D307 and D311 from the DDxxD motif were found to form a polar interaction with two Mg^(2+)clusters by docking.The Mg^(2+)-bound DDxxD and NSE/DTE motifs and the free RXR motif are jointly directed into the catalytic pocket of AsHS1.Comparison of the tertiary structural models of AsHS1 with ASS1 showed that they diff ered in structures in several positions,such as surrounding the secondary catalytic pocket,which may lead to diff erences in catalytic products.Based on the results,biosynthetic pathways for specifi c sesquiterpenes such asα-humulene in A.sinensis are proposed.This study provides novel insights into the functions of the sesquiterpene synthases of A.sinensis and enriches knowledge on agarwood formation.展开更多
Objective: To study the relationship between nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression in human gastric mucosa and Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) infection. Methods: Gastric mucosa samples were obtained from antrum of 33...Objective: To study the relationship between nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression in human gastric mucosa and Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) infection. Methods: Gastric mucosa samples were obtained from antrum of 33 patients received gastroendoscopy. H.pylori infection was confirmed by Giems staining and bacteria culture under microaerophilic conditions. Expression of iNOS, eNOS and nitrotyrosine were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results: (1) The positive rate of H. pylori infection was 66.7%(22/33). (2) iNOS positive staining in inflammatory cells was detected in 77.3%(17/22) of samples with H.pylori and 27.3%(3/11) without H.pylori infection (P<0.01). (3) eNOS expression in inflammatory cells was found in 77.3%(17/22) of samples with H. pylori and 18.2%(2/11) without H.pylori infection (P<0.01). (4) Nitrotyrosine expression in inflammatory cells was observed in 59.1%(13/22) of samples with H. pylori and 54.5%(6/11) without H. pylori infection (P>0.05). (5) Moderate and severe infiltrations of inflammatory cells were found in 86.4%(19/22) of gastric biopsies with H. pylori and 9.1%(1/11) of samples without H. pylori infection (P<0.01). Conclusion: H.pylori infection might promote infiltration of mononuclear cells and macrophages in gastric mucosa and induce iNOS expression in these cells. The accumulated nitric oxide in local area may result in gastric mucosa damage.展开更多
Objective To find out whether dexamethasone induces an uncoupling of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase （eNOS）. Methods ＆ Results A major cause of eNOS uncoupling is a deficiency of its cofactor tetrahydrobiopte...Objective To find out whether dexamethasone induces an uncoupling of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase （eNOS）. Methods ＆ Results A major cause of eNOS uncoupling is a deficiency of its cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin （BH4）. Treatment of human EA.hy 926 endothelial cells with dexamethasone decreased mRNA and protein expression of both BH4-synthesizing enzymes： GTP cyclobydrolase I and dihydrofolate reductase. Consistently, a concentration- and time-dependent reduction of BH4, dihydrobiopterin （BH2） as well as BH4：BH2 ratio was observed in dexamethasone-treated cells. Surprisingly, no evidence for eNOS uncoupling was found. We then analyzed the expression and phosphorylation of the eNOS enzyme. Dexamethasone treatment led to a down-regulation of eNOS protein and a reduction of eNOS phosphorylation at serine 1177. A reduction of eNOS expression may lead to a relatively normal BH4： eNOS molar ratio in dexamethasone-treated cells. Because the BH4-eNOS stoichiometry rather than the absolute BH4 amount is the key determinant of eNOS functionality （i.e., coupled or uncoupled）, the down-regulation of eNOS may represent an explanation for the absence of eNOS uncoupling. Phosphorylation of eNOS at serine 1177 is needed for both the NO-producing activity of the coupled eNOS and the superoxide-producing activity of the uncoupled eNOS. Thus, a reduction of serine 1177 phosphorylation may render a potentially uncoupled eNOS hardly detectable. Conclusions Although dexamethasone reduces BH4 levels in endothelial cells, eNOS uncoupling is not evident. The reduction of NO production in dexamethasone-treated endothelial cells is mainly attributable to reduced eNOS expression and decreased eNOS phosphorylation at serine 1177.展开更多
Objective：To investigate the production of nitric oxide（NO） and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS）, and their possible role in abdominal aortic aneurysm （AAA）. Methods： A total of 28 pati...Objective：To investigate the production of nitric oxide（NO） and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS）, and their possible role in abdominal aortic aneurysm （AAA）. Methods： A total of 28 patients with AAA, 10 healthy controls, and 8 patients with arterial occlusive disease were enrolled into this study. Standard colorimetric assay was used to examine NO concentration in plasma from patients with AAA and normal controls, and in cultured smooth muscle cells （SMCs）. Expression of iNOS in aortas and cultured SMCs were detected by immunochemistry. The correlation of iNOS expression with age of the patient, size of aneurysm, and degree of inflammation was also investigated by Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel χ^2 test and Kendall correlation. Results ： Expression of iNOS increased significantly in the wall of aneurism in the patients with AAA compared to the healthy controls （P〈0.05） and the patients with occlusive arteries （P〈0.05）. iNOS protein and media NOx （nitrite＋nitrate） also increased in cultured SMCs from human AAA （n=4, P〈0.05）, while plasma NOx decreased in patients with AAA （n= 25） compared to the healthy controls （n=20）. There was a positive correlation between iNOS protein and the degree of inflammation in aneurismal wall （Kendall coefficient = 0. 5032, P= 0. 0029）. Conclusion： SMCs and inflammatory cells are main cellular sources of increased iNOS in AAA, and NO may play a part in pathogenesis in AAA through inflammation, SMCs and oxidative stress.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the distribution of the three subtypes of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inthe gastrointestinal tract of rats. Methods: Immunohistochemical ABC methods were used. Results: Neuronal NOS(nNOS)-pos...Objective: To investigate the distribution of the three subtypes of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inthe gastrointestinal tract of rats. Methods: Immunohistochemical ABC methods were used. Results: Neuronal NOS(nNOS)-positive substance was localized in epithelial cells, endocrine cells, endothelial cells andneuronal cell bodies in the intermuscular plexus and submucous plexus. Inducible NOS(iNOS)-positive substance was located in smooth muscle cells in gastric corpus, intestinal mucosa epithelium and endocrine cells.Endothelial NOS(eNOS)-positive substance was distributed mainly in vascular endothelial cells. Conclusion:The distribution patterns of the three subtypes of NOS exhibited specificity and overlapping profile in the gastrointestinal tract of rats.展开更多
Objective: Functional significance of NO and central inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric(GABA) during seizures were investigated morphorlogically. Methods: A kainate-induced complex partialseizure model was us...Objective: Functional significance of NO and central inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric(GABA) during seizures were investigated morphorlogically. Methods: A kainate-induced complex partialseizure model was used in our experiment. Twenty SD rats were randomly divided into KA 30, 60, 90, 200min and control groups. The brain sections were stained by NADPh (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate ) diaphorase (Nd ) histochemically, and were further stained by GABA immunohistochemically.Results: Histological and immunohistochemical study revealed that in KA groups the number of Nd and GABA-positive double labelled neurons in CA3 region, CA3 region and dentate gyms was significantly reduced,compared with the control group. Conclusion: Nd coexisted with GABA in the brain. Reduction of GABA release led to relief of GABA-ergic inhibition and in the same way, reduction of NO release weakened its negative feedback modulation. Therefore neuronal synchronous paroxysmal discharges increased. GABA and NO,both having antiepileptic action, acted through different ways or different link in the same way. NO may involve in the effect of GABA-ergic neurons and play cooperative antiepileptic action with GABA.展开更多
基金supported by the 948 Program of State Forestry Administration (No2009-4-26)co-sponsored by SRF for ROCS and the National Natural Science Foundation (No 30972390) of China
文摘In previous study we reported that pretreatment with plasmolysis enhanced somatic embryo formation in hypocotyls of Eleutherococcus senticosus.In the present study,the expression level of callose synthase gene in embryos of E.senticosus in response to 2,4-D,sucrose and mannitol treatments was analyzed by RT-PCR.The results show that plasmolysis pretreatment using sucrose and mannitol significantly promoted the expression of callose synthase gene.Also,the thicker cell walls of explant plasmolyzed compared with controls were observed during the somatic embryogenesis.We suggest that the callose may make the cells in epidermis separate from neighboring cells and then develop into embryogenic potential cells.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (30771026)Beijing Natural Science Foundation (7082079)
文摘Objective To explore the effects of zinc-0t2-glycoprotein （ZAG） on body weight and body fat in high-fat-diet （HF1））-induced obesity in mice and the possible mechanism. Methods Thirty-six male mice were fed with standard food （SF） （n=9） and HFD （n=27）, respectively. Five weeks later, 9 mice fed with HFD were subjected to ZAG expression plasmid DNA transfection by liposome transfection method, and another 9 mice to negative control plasmid transfection. Two weeks later, serum ZAG level in the mice was assayed by Western blot, and the effects of ZAG over-expression on body weight, body fat, serum biochemical indexes, and adipose tissue of obese mice were evaluated. The mRNA expressions of fatty acid synthase （FAS） and hormone sensitive lipase （HSL） in liver tissue were deterlnined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Results Serum ZAG level significantly lowered in simple HFD-fed mice in comparison to SF-fed mice （0.51±0.10 AU vs. 0.75±0.07 AU, P〈0.01）. Further statistical analysis demonstrated that ZAG level was negatively correlated with body weight （r =-0.56, P〈0.001）, epididymal fat mass （r=-0.67, P〈O. 001）, percentage of epididymal fat （r= 0.65, P〈0.001）, and increased weight （r= 0.57, P〈0.001） in simple SF- and HFD fed mice. ZAG over-expression in obese mice reduced body weight and the percentage of epididyreal fat. Furthermore, FAS mRNA expression decreased （P〈0.01） and HSL mRNA expression increased （P〈0.001） in the liver in ZAG over-expressing mice. Conclusions ZAG is closely related to obesity. Serum ZAG level is inversely correlated with body weight and percentage of body fat. The action of ZAG is associated with reduced FAS expression and increased HSL expression in the liver of obese mice.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China (30393130, 30470651)National Basic Research Program of China (973 Program) (2006BAI19B07, 2006CB504103)National Key Laboratory Specific Fund (2060204)
文摘Objective To examine whether the polymorphisms of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene are associated with the susceptibility to high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) in Chinese railway construction workers at Qinghai-Tibet where the altitude is over 4 500 m above sea level. Methods A case-control study was conducted including 149 HAPE patients in the construction workers and 160 healthy controls randomly recruited from their co-workers, matching the patients in ethnicity, age, sex, lifestyle, and working conditions. Three polymorphisms of eNOS gene, T-786C in promoter, 894G/T in exon 7, and 27bp variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) in intron 4, were genotyped using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and confirmed with DNA sequencing. Results The frequencies of 894T allele and heterozygous G/T of the 894G/T variant were significantly higher in HAPE patients group than in the control group (P=0.0028 and P=0.0047, respectively). However, the frequencies of the T-786C in promoter and the 27bp VNTR in intron 4 were not significantly different between the two groups. Haplotypic analysis revealed that the frequencies of two haplotypes (H3,T-T-b, b indicates 5 repeats of 27 bp VNTR; H6, C-G-a, a indicates 4 repeats of 27 bp VNTR) were significantly higher in HAPE patients (both P<0.0001). On the contrary, the frequencies of H1 (T-G-b) and H2 (T-G-a) were lower in HAPE patients than in healthy controls (both P<0.001). Conclusions Two haplotypes (T-T-b and C-G-a) may be strongly associated with susceptibility to HAPE. Compared with the individual alleles of eNOS gene, the interaction of multiple genetic markers within a haplotype may be a major determinant for the susceptibility to HAPE.
基金supported by the Project of Construction of Innovative Teams and Teacher Career Development for Universities and Colleges under Beijing Municipality(IDHT20180509)the National Natural Science foundation of China(31201645)+1 种基金the Beijing Municipal Natural Science Foundation(6172006)key project of Beijing Municipal Education Commission(KZ201510020021)
文摘Syringa species are important ornamentals with strong floral scent,of which monoterpenes are the main component.In this study,a new monoterpene synthase gene,named SoLIM,was collected from the flowers of Syringa oblata and S.oblata var.alba using a homologous cloning method.The full-length cDNA of SoLIM was1746 bp and encoded 581 amino acids.Sequence analysis showed that SoLIM contained the DDxxD and RRx8 W motifs,which are two typical conserved monoterpene synthase motifs,and was thus classified as belonging to the Tpsb subfamily.Using quantitative reverse-transcription PCR,SoLIM was significantly expressed in the petals and pistils of S.oblata and S.oblata var.alba,respectively.SoLIM expression peaked earlier than the D-limonene emissions in the diurnal experiments,but occurred later when D-limonene had peaked during the flowering phase,indicating that differences in SoLIM gene expression and D-limonene emissions existed.The synthesis of floral scent is thus associated with diverse regulatory mechanisms that require further investigation.
基金Supported by the Hi-Tech Research and Development Program of China (863) (2001AA244060 and 2003AA244020) and National Basic Research Program of China (973) (J1999016003)
文摘A 3 125 bp cellulose synthase gene, PtoCesA1, which has a 98% identity to PtrCesA1 from Populus tremuloides, was cloned from cDNA prepared from secondary xylem of P tomentosa. Four anti-expression vectors with different fragments of PtoCesAl, named as pBIPF, pBICC1, pBIPR and pBIBR, were constructed. Some traits of transformed tobacco of pBICC1, pBIPR and pBIBR differed from wild types, such as small leaves, ＂dwarf＂ phenotype and thinner xylem and fiber cell walls than wild plants consistent with a loss of cellulose. It indicated that the growth of transgenic tobacco was restrained by the expression of anti-PtoCesA1. Transgenic tobacco was obtained and the contents of cellulose and lignin were analyzed as well as the width and length of fiber cells, and xylem thickness for both transgenic and control plants. Transformed tobacco showed a different phenotype from control plants and it implied that PtoCesA1 was essential for the cellulose biosynthesis in poplar stems.
文摘Objective: To investigate whether nitric oxide synthase (NOS) is expressed in T-cell-dependent liver injury initiated by concanavalin A (ConA) in Kunming mice and study the possible effect of nitric oxide(NO) on liver injury models. Methods: Liver injury in Kunming mice was induced by administration of ConA through tail vein. Expression of NOS in the liver was detected by NADPH diaphorase staining method. The possible effect of NO on liver injury models was obtained by L-NAME injection to suppress synthesis of NO. Results: NOS has a strong expression in hepatocytes after ConA injection, especially in those close to the central vein, while only a weak expression was found in the epithelial cells in control group. Liver injury became more serious when NO synthesis was inhibited by L-NAME, accompanied by great malondialdehyde(MDA) increase in serum and severe intrahepatic vascular thrombosis. Conclusion: NOS markedly expressed in ConA-induced liver injury, which may subsequently promote nitric oxide synthesis. Increasement of nitric oxide has a protective effect on ConA-induced liver injury.
基金the Scientific Research Foundation of Education Committee of Hunan (07C713 and 07C708)
文摘Objective： To clone and construct the recombinant plasmid containing ATP synthase lipid-binding protein-like protein gene of Schistosomajaponicum,（SjAslp） and transfer it into mammalian cells to express the objective protein. Methods： By polymerase chain reaction （PCR） technique, SjAslp was amplified from the constructed recombinant plasmid pBCSK＋/SjAslp, and inserted into cloning vector pUCm-T. Then, SjAslp was subcloned into an eukaryotic expression vector pcDNA3.1（＋）. After identifying it by PCR, restrictive enzymes digestion and DNA sequencing, the recombinant plasmid was transfected into HeLa cells using electroporation, and the expression of the recombinant protein was analyzed by immunocytochemical assay. Results： The specific gene fragment of 558 bp was successfully amplified. The DNA vaccine of SjAslp was successfully constructed. Immunocytochemical assay showed that SjAslp was expressed in the cytoplasm of HeLa cells. Conclusion： SjAslp gene can be expressed in eukaryotic system, which lays the foundation for development of the SjAslp DNA vaccine against schitosomiasis.
基金Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China （Grant Nos 60025516 and 10334100）.
文摘ATP synthase is a rotary motor which is composed of two portions： the ‘rotor＇ Fo, consisting of a c-ring, and the ‘stator＇ F1, consisting of an a3/33 hexamer. In different species, the number of c-subunits which form the c-ring is varied from 10 to 14, whereas the a3/33 hexamer is fixed to be 3-fold symmetrical. We have numerically studied the rotational coupling between Fo with varied number of c-subunits and F1. It is found that, for any number of c-subunits, the rotor Fo advances 3 steps per revolution on average, which is determined by the period of F1, whereas the exact angular pausing positions are determined by the period of Fo. When the symmetry of the c-ring of Fo is matched with the 3-fold symmetry of F1, the three steps have equivalent sizes. If not matched, the three steps become nonequivalent： both the step size and average dwell time are different for these steps.
基金Supported by the National Basic Research Program of China(2012CB721105)the Major Research Plan of Tianjin(16YFXTSF00460)
文摘Squalene and oxidosqualene cyclizations are regarded as the most complex chemical reactions in the nature,which can achieve protonation,deprotonation,a sequence of hydride and methyl migration. Dammarenediol-Ⅱ synthase（ DS）,as a kind of 2,3-oxidosqualene-triterpene cyclase,catalyses2,3-oxidosqualene to form dammarenediol-Ⅱ. To assess the three-dimensional（ 3 D） structure and catalytic active sites of dammarenediol-Ⅱ synthase,utilizing the homology modeling method,3 D models of DS were established in the Modeller9 v14 software and I-TASSER server. With the highest sequence identity with DS,human oxidosqualene cyclase 3 D models（ PDB： 1 W6K and 1 W6J） were chosen as templates. Through further evaluation and optimization,an optimal DS model was obtained consequently. Then several putative catalytic active sites were found through the molecular docking simulation between DS model and product dammarenediol-Ⅱ by using Autodock 4. 2. Finally,site-directed mutants of DS were expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae,a significant decrease of the yield of dammarenediol-Ⅱ is achieved,which verified the significance of these putative active sites.
文摘In the present study,the localization of nitric oxide synthase(NOS) in the mouse intestines(duodenum,jejunum,ileum and proximal segment of large intestine) was observed using NADPH-diaphorase(ND) histochemical technique.The results showed that the NOS-pos
基金supported by the Army on the Subject of China (10ZYZ219)
文摘Background: To investigate the effects of unsafe decompression on rat pulmonary endothelial function and its relevant mechanisms.Methods: Sixty male Sprague-Dawley(SD) rats were randomly divided into a control group(n=30) and a decompression sickness(DCS) group(n=30). The DCS model was established by placing the rats in the DCS group in a pressurized cabin where they were exposed to a 600 k Pa compressed air environment for 60 min, and the pressure was then reduced by 100 k Pa/min until it reached atmospheric pressure. After the surviving rats in the DCS group and the rats in the control group were anesthetized, their pulmonary arteries were stripped to test the in vitro pulmonary artery endothelium-dependent vasodilation capacity. Western blotting was used to measure the expression and dissociation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase(e NOS) in pulmonary artery tissues and all protein nitration levels in pulmonary artery tissues; reactive oxygen species(ROS) formation was measured via in vitro pulmonary artery superoxide anion probe dihydroethidium(DHE) staining.Results: After experiencing unsafe decompression, 10 of the 30 rats in the DCS group died. The pulmonary artery endothelium-dependent vasodilation capacity in the surviving rats decreased significantly(P<0.05). The difference in e NOS expression between the DCS group and the control group was statistically insignificant(P>0.05), but the ratio of e NOS monomer/dimer in the DCS group was significantly higher than that in the control group(P<0.05). All protein tyrosine nitration levels in the pulmonary artery tissues of the DCS group were significantly higher than those of the control group(P<0.05). The results of DHE staining showed that the amount of ROS formation in the pulmonary arteries of the DCS group was significantly higher than that of the control group(P<0.05).Conclusion: Unsafe decompression during a simulated submarine escape process can lead to e NOS dimer uncoupling in the pulmonary artery endothelium. The dissociated e NOS monomer cannot synthesize nitric oxide(NO) and thus affect the endothelium-dependent vasodilation capacity. The e NOS monomer can promote peroxynitrite(ONOO–) synthesis, leading to an increase in protein tyrosine nitration levels in pulmonary artery tissues and causing disorder in cell cycle regulation. The e NOS monomer can also cause an increase in the formation of ROS and thus mediate peroxidation damage.
文摘in order to understand the dynamic change of nitric oxide (NO) and its pathological significance during intestinal radiation sickness, we gave mice 60Co γ-ray irradiation and sacrificed them after different periods of survival.The dynamic distribution of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in the small intestines (duodenum, jejunum and ileum) was studied by using NADPH-diaphorase histochemistry. The results showed that in the animal groups that survived 48 h and 72 h after irradiation (the 48 h and 72 h groups), the number of NOS-positive neuronal bodies and the density of NOS-positive fibers increased obviously in the myenteric plexus and deep muscular plexus as compared with the control group. The neuronal bodies and fibers were stained intensely. The NOS-positive reaction product in the glandular cavities of the intestines and on the mucosa also increased. The results suggest that the activation of NOS or increase of NO production might be one of the main causes of intestinal and vascular dilatation during intestinal radiation sickness.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(81773844).
文摘Sesquiterpenes are the major pharmacodynamic components of agarwood,a precious traditional Chinese medicine obtained from the resinous portions of Aquilaria sinensis trees that form in response to environmental stressors.To characterize the sesquiterpene synthases responsible for sesquiterpene production in A.sinensis,a bioinformatics analysis of the genome of A.sinensis identifi ed six new terpene synthase genes,and 16 sesquiterpene synthase genes were identifi ed as type TPS-a in a phylogenetic analysis.The expression patterns for eight of the sesquiterpene synthase genes after treatment with various hormones or hydrogen peroxide were analyzed by real-time quantitative PCR.The results suggest that 100μM methyl jasmonate,ethephon,(±)-abscisic acid or hydrogen peroxide could be eff ective short-term eff ectors to increase the expression of sesquiterpene synthase genes,while 1 mM methyl salicylate may have long-term eff ects on increasing the expression of specifi c sesquiterpene synthase genes(e.g.,As-SesTPS,AsVS,AsTPS12 and AsTPS29).The expression changes in these genes under various conditions refl ected their specifi c roles during abiotic or biotic stresses.Heterologous expression of a novel A.sinensis sesquiterpene synthase gene,AsTPS2,in Escherichia coli produced a major humulene product,so AsTPS2 is renamed AsHS1.AsHS1 is diff erent from ASS1,AsSesTPS,and AsVS,for mainly producingα-humulene.Based on the predicted space conformation of the AsHS1 model,the small ligand molecule may bind to the free amino acid by hydrogen bonding for the catalytic function of the enzyme,while the substrate farnesyl diphosphate(FPP)probably binds to the free amino acid on one side of the RxR motif.Arg450,Asp453,Asp454,Thr457,and Glu461 from the NSE/DTE motif and D307 and D311 from the DDxxD motif were found to form a polar interaction with two Mg^(2+)clusters by docking.The Mg^(2+)-bound DDxxD and NSE/DTE motifs and the free RXR motif are jointly directed into the catalytic pocket of AsHS1.Comparison of the tertiary structural models of AsHS1 with ASS1 showed that they diff ered in structures in several positions,such as surrounding the secondary catalytic pocket,which may lead to diff erences in catalytic products.Based on the results,biosynthetic pathways for specifi c sesquiterpenes such asα-humulene in A.sinensis are proposed.This study provides novel insights into the functions of the sesquiterpene synthases of A.sinensis and enriches knowledge on agarwood formation.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.30170427)
文摘Objective: To study the relationship between nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression in human gastric mucosa and Helicobacter pylori (H.pylori) infection. Methods: Gastric mucosa samples were obtained from antrum of 33 patients received gastroendoscopy. H.pylori infection was confirmed by Giems staining and bacteria culture under microaerophilic conditions. Expression of iNOS, eNOS and nitrotyrosine were detected by immunohistochemistry. Results: (1) The positive rate of H. pylori infection was 66.7%(22/33). (2) iNOS positive staining in inflammatory cells was detected in 77.3%(17/22) of samples with H.pylori and 27.3%(3/11) without H.pylori infection (P<0.01). (3) eNOS expression in inflammatory cells was found in 77.3%(17/22) of samples with H. pylori and 18.2%(2/11) without H.pylori infection (P<0.01). (4) Nitrotyrosine expression in inflammatory cells was observed in 59.1%(13/22) of samples with H. pylori and 54.5%(6/11) without H. pylori infection (P>0.05). (5) Moderate and severe infiltrations of inflammatory cells were found in 86.4%(19/22) of gastric biopsies with H. pylori and 9.1%(1/11) of samples without H. pylori infection (P<0.01). Conclusion: H.pylori infection might promote infiltration of mononuclear cells and macrophages in gastric mucosa and induce iNOS expression in these cells. The accumulated nitric oxide in local area may result in gastric mucosa damage.
文摘Objective To find out whether dexamethasone induces an uncoupling of the endothelial nitric oxide synthase （eNOS）. Methods ＆ Results A major cause of eNOS uncoupling is a deficiency of its cofactor tetrahydrobiopterin （BH4）. Treatment of human EA.hy 926 endothelial cells with dexamethasone decreased mRNA and protein expression of both BH4-synthesizing enzymes： GTP cyclobydrolase I and dihydrofolate reductase. Consistently, a concentration- and time-dependent reduction of BH4, dihydrobiopterin （BH2） as well as BH4：BH2 ratio was observed in dexamethasone-treated cells. Surprisingly, no evidence for eNOS uncoupling was found. We then analyzed the expression and phosphorylation of the eNOS enzyme. Dexamethasone treatment led to a down-regulation of eNOS protein and a reduction of eNOS phosphorylation at serine 1177. A reduction of eNOS expression may lead to a relatively normal BH4： eNOS molar ratio in dexamethasone-treated cells. Because the BH4-eNOS stoichiometry rather than the absolute BH4 amount is the key determinant of eNOS functionality （i.e., coupled or uncoupled）, the down-regulation of eNOS may represent an explanation for the absence of eNOS uncoupling. Phosphorylation of eNOS at serine 1177 is needed for both the NO-producing activity of the coupled eNOS and the superoxide-producing activity of the uncoupled eNOS. Thus, a reduction of serine 1177 phosphorylation may render a potentially uncoupled eNOS hardly detectable. Conclusions Although dexamethasone reduces BH4 levels in endothelial cells, eNOS uncoupling is not evident. The reduction of NO production in dexamethasone-treated endothelial cells is mainly attributable to reduced eNOS expression and decreased eNOS phosphorylation at serine 1177.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 39800177)
文摘Objective：To investigate the production of nitric oxide（NO） and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase （iNOS）, and their possible role in abdominal aortic aneurysm （AAA）. Methods： A total of 28 patients with AAA, 10 healthy controls, and 8 patients with arterial occlusive disease were enrolled into this study. Standard colorimetric assay was used to examine NO concentration in plasma from patients with AAA and normal controls, and in cultured smooth muscle cells （SMCs）. Expression of iNOS in aortas and cultured SMCs were detected by immunochemistry. The correlation of iNOS expression with age of the patient, size of aneurysm, and degree of inflammation was also investigated by Cochran-Mantel-Haenszel χ^2 test and Kendall correlation. Results ： Expression of iNOS increased significantly in the wall of aneurism in the patients with AAA compared to the healthy controls （P〈0.05） and the patients with occlusive arteries （P〈0.05）. iNOS protein and media NOx （nitrite＋nitrate） also increased in cultured SMCs from human AAA （n=4, P〈0.05）, while plasma NOx decreased in patients with AAA （n= 25） compared to the healthy controls （n=20）. There was a positive correlation between iNOS protein and the degree of inflammation in aneurismal wall （Kendall coefficient = 0. 5032, P= 0. 0029）. Conclusion： SMCs and inflammatory cells are main cellular sources of increased iNOS in AAA, and NO may play a part in pathogenesis in AAA through inflammation, SMCs and oxidative stress.
文摘Objective: To investigate the distribution of the three subtypes of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inthe gastrointestinal tract of rats. Methods: Immunohistochemical ABC methods were used. Results: Neuronal NOS(nNOS)-positive substance was localized in epithelial cells, endocrine cells, endothelial cells andneuronal cell bodies in the intermuscular plexus and submucous plexus. Inducible NOS(iNOS)-positive substance was located in smooth muscle cells in gastric corpus, intestinal mucosa epithelium and endocrine cells.Endothelial NOS(eNOS)-positive substance was distributed mainly in vascular endothelial cells. Conclusion:The distribution patterns of the three subtypes of NOS exhibited specificity and overlapping profile in the gastrointestinal tract of rats.
文摘Objective: Functional significance of NO and central inhibitory neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric(GABA) during seizures were investigated morphorlogically. Methods: A kainate-induced complex partialseizure model was used in our experiment. Twenty SD rats were randomly divided into KA 30, 60, 90, 200min and control groups. The brain sections were stained by NADPh (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate ) diaphorase (Nd ) histochemically, and were further stained by GABA immunohistochemically.Results: Histological and immunohistochemical study revealed that in KA groups the number of Nd and GABA-positive double labelled neurons in CA3 region, CA3 region and dentate gyms was significantly reduced,compared with the control group. Conclusion: Nd coexisted with GABA in the brain. Reduction of GABA release led to relief of GABA-ergic inhibition and in the same way, reduction of NO release weakened its negative feedback modulation. Therefore neuronal synchronous paroxysmal discharges increased. GABA and NO,both having antiepileptic action, acted through different ways or different link in the same way. NO may involve in the effect of GABA-ergic neurons and play cooperative antiepileptic action with GABA.
