Loading...

Table of Content

    08 October 2011, Volume 15 Issue 41 Previous Issue    Next Issue
    For Selected: Toggle Thumbnails
    Osteogenic differentiation of rabbit adipose derived stem cells transfected with recombinant pcDNA3.1-hBMP-2 in vitro
    An Rong-ze, Wang Zhao-jie, Liu Fan-fan, Qi Xin-wen, Yuan Xiao-hong, Chen Jun-ping, Zhao Jun-yan, Hu Xiao-jun, Yang Jin, Zhao Hao
    2011, 15 (41):  7601-7606.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.001
    Abstract ( 261 )   PDF (1371KB) ( 259 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) shows strong potential to induce osteogenesis of stem cells.
    OBJECTIVE: To construct an eukaryotic expression vector of human BMP-2 (hBMP-2) gene and then to investigate its effect in osteogenic differentiation of human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs).
    METHODS: hBMP-2 gene was obtained by screening human mixed cell cDNA library by plaque in situ hybridization and connected with the eukaryotic expression vector pcDNA3.1. The recombinant plasmid pcDNA3.1-hBMP-2 was identified by BamHⅠ/ EcoRⅠenzyme digestion and DNA sequencing. ADSCs were isolated from fat tissues at the back of a 3-month-old New Zealand white rabbit neck, then cultured and proliferated for further use. The hBMP-2 group (experimental group), EGFP group (negative control group) and non-transfected group (blank control group) were used. Mediated by Lipofectamine™ 2000, hBMP-2 gene and EGFP gene were transfected with the 4th generation of ADSCs respectively. At 2 days after transfection,    400 μg/mL G418 was used for screening the transfected cells. At 48 hours after transfection, green fluorescent cells were counted for determining transient transfection efficiency under fluorescence microscope. Cell growth curves of each group were drawn by MTT colorimetry. The hBMP-2 content in cell supernatants of each group was quantitated by ELISA. CollagenⅠcontent was determined by immunocytochemical staining, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in the cell supernatant was measured through the use of ALP activity detection kit, and the number of calcium nodules was calculated by alizarin red staining.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After BamHⅠ/ EcoRⅠdigestion and DNA sequencing, the recombinant plasmid was constructed successfully. The transfection of pcDNA3.1-hBMP-2 and pcDNA3.1-EGFP can be mediated by Lipofectamine™ 2000. The transient transfection efficiency was (18.0 ± 0.42) %. With the screening of 400 μg/mL G418, cells stably transfected were harvested. The cell growth curve of each group was drawn by MTT colorimetry, indicating that there was no significant effect on the growth and proliferation of ADSCs with gene transfection mediated by Lipofectamine™ 2000. The hBMP-2 levels in the cell supernatant quantified by ELISA showed that hBMP-2 expression was higher in the hBMP-2 group than in the EGFP group and non-transfected group at the corresponding period (between groups P < 0.05). The cells of hBMP-2 group provided a steady hBMP-2 expression (intra-group P > 0.05). ADSCs transfected by hBMP-2 gene showed greater collagenⅠ content and higher activity of ALP, more calcium nodules compared with the EGFP and non-transfected groups (P < 0.05). The recombinant plasmid pcDNA3.1-hBMP-2 was constructed successfully; the transfection of hBMP-2 gene into ADSCs can be mediated by Lipofectamine™ 2000 successfully, and there is no significant effect on the growth and proliferation of the transfected cells. With the screening of G418, the stably transfected cells can be harvested. The hBMP-2 expression of ADSCs transfected by hBMP-2 gene is stable and efficient, and with the induction of hBMP-2, they self-expressed. ADSCs can carry on the differentiation into osteoblast cells.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effects of psoralea corylifolia on alveolar bone absorption in an ovariectimized rat model of periodontitis
    Zhu Jian-hua, Chi Yu-hong, Zhang Yan-qiu, Liu Ji-guang
    2011, 15 (41):  7607-7610.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.002
    Abstract ( 254 )   PDF (1281KB) ( 332 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Psoralea corylifolia exhibits obvious therapeutic effects on osteoporosis.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of psoralea corylifolia on alveolar bone metabolism, alveolar bone mineral density and height in ovariectimized rats with periodontitis.
    METHODS: Thirty female Wister rats were randomly divided into three groups: ovariectomy, psoralea corylifolia and sham-surgery. Rats from the ovariectomy and psoralea corylifolia groups underwent bilateral ovariectomy, and rats from the sham surgery group did not receive ovariectomy. At 2 days after ovariectomy, rats from the psoralea corylifolia group were orally administered 3 g/kg psoralea corylifolia, once a day. At 2 weeks after ovariectomy, all rats were established into peridontitis models by ligation of maxillary molar.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: At 12 weeks after ligation of maxillary molar, compared with sham surgery group, estradiol and calcium ion levels were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), alkaline phosphatase level was significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the ovariectomy group. X-ray and hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that alveolar bone mineral density and height in the ovariectomy group was significantly decreased than that in the control group (P < 0.05). Compared with ovariectomy group, serum level of calcium ion was significantly increased (P < 0.05) and alkaline phosphatase level was significantly decreased    (P < 0.05), and alveolar bone mineral density and height were significantly increased in the psoralea corylifolia group. However, no significant difference was observed between psoralea corylifolia group and sham surgery group (P > 0.05). These findings suggest that estrogen-deficient state can promote alveolar bone absorption in rats with experimental periodontitis, and psoralea corylifolia can prevent the decrease in alveolar bone height and density resulting from estrogen deficiency.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Insulin-like growth factor 1 and transformation growth factor beta 2 promote engineered cartilage formation in vitro
    Chen Ning-jie, Zhang Wei, Liang Xiao-qin, Yang Biao-bing
    2011, 15 (41):  7611-7614.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.003
    Abstract ( 202 )   PDF (1247KB) ( 246 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Cartilage tissue has poor regenerative capacity. Cartilage tissue engineering can repair damaged cartilage tissue using fewer cells, scaffold materials and cytokines. 
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) combined with transformation growth factor beta 2 (TGF-β2) on engineered cartilage formation.
    METHODS: Human chondrocytes were isolated by enzyme digestion method and then were inoculated onto calcium alginate bead scaffold for culture in three-dimensional circumstance after addition of 200 μg/L IGF-1 and (or) 1 μg/L TGF-β2. At 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, and 13 days of culture, chondrocyte proliferation was tested by cell counting. After 2 weeks of culture, the fresh tissues were assessed by morphological observation, alcian blue-periodic acid sthiff staining, and anti typeⅡcollagen immunohistochemicel staining.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: IGF-1 and TGF-β2 could stimulate chondrocytes to proliferate and excrete chondral matrix. IGF-1 mainly promoted the proliferation of chondrocytes, while TGF-β2 mainly promoted the formation of cartilage-related matrix. IGF-1 combined with TGF-β2 has synergistic effects on promoting engineered cartilage formation.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effects of testosterone on expression of insulin-like growth factor 1 in cartilage of knee joints with osteoarthritis in male rabbits
    Wu Shu-hong, Liu Yi, Xiong Hua-zhang, Zou Gang
    2011, 15 (41):  7615-7618.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.004
    Abstract ( 307 )   PDF (1161KB) ( 239 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: The effects of testosterone on osteoarthritis (OA) remain controversial. The regulatory effects of testosterone on cartilage metabolism have been rarely reported.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of testosterone on insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) expression in cartilage of knee joints with osteoarthritis in male rabbits.
    METHODS: Twenty-four male rabbits were established into OA models with Hulth method on the right knee joints and then randomly divided into four groups: non-castrated, castrated, testosterone and model. In the non-castrated group, testis was not removed. In the other three groups, bilateral testes were removed. At the end of the 8th week, rabbits in the non-castrated group and castrated for 8 weeks group were sacrificed for sample harvesting. From the 9th week, physiological dose of testosterone undecanoate (6 mg/kg, once every 2 weeks) was intramuscularly injected into the rabbits from the testosterone group. The castrated for 16 weeks group rabbits were normally raised. At the end of 16th week, rabbits from the testosterone and castrated for 16 weeks groups were sacrificed for sample harvesting.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Gross and histological observation results showed that the lesion degree of knee joint cartilage was more severe in the non-castrated group than in the castrated group, in the testosterone group than in the castrated for 16 weeks group, but there was no obvious difference between castrated for 8 weeks group and castrated for 16 weeks group. Immunohistochemistry results showed that IGF-1 expression was observed in the knee joint cartilage of all rabbits. IGF-1-positive cells were significantly more in the non-castrated group than in the castrated for 8 weeks group (P < 0.05), and they were also significantly more in the testosterone group than in the castrated for 16 weeks group (P < 0.05) , and there was no significant difference between castrated for 8 weeks group and castrated for 16 weeks group (P > 0.05). These findings suggest that testosterone can postpone cartilage degeneration by up-regulating IGF-1 expression in knee joint cartilage of castrated male rabbits.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effect of geniposide on proliferation of rat chondrocytes in vitro
    Tan Yu-lin, Bao Tong-zhu, Liu Qin, Han Yu, Wang Yan-lin, Zhou Na-xin, Chen Ken, Yan Fei
    2011, 15 (41):  7619-7622.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.005
    Abstract ( 278 )   PDF (1315KB) ( 308 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that geniposide can ameliorate the treatment of ligament injuries by proliferating ligament fibroblasts and promoting the synthesis of collagen.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of geniposide on the proliferation of rat chondrocytes in vitro.
    METHODS: The rat articular chondrocytes were isolated by enzyme digestion and sub-cultivated in serial. The chondrocytes of passage 4 were interfered with 0, 25, 50, 100 mmol/L geniposide. Chonddrocyte proliferation was detected using methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium and flow cytometry.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The phenotype of chondrocyte was changed from original polygonal shape to fusiform with the increased passage. The proliferation of chondrocytes in the 25, 50,100 mmol/L geniposide groups was respectively higher than that in the control group (P < 0.01). Geniposide can stimulate the proliferation of chondrocytes.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effects of bipolar radiofrequency energy treatment time on chondrocyte viability and surface contouring
    Zhang Kai, Wang Da-ping, Liu Jian-quan, Zhu Wei-min
    2011, 15 (41):  7623-7626.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.006
    Abstract ( 308 )   PDF (621KB) ( 248 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: More recently, radiofrequency energy (RFE) has been used to treat articular cartilage defects. However, the safety of these devices remains controversial.
    OBJECTIVE: To evaluate chongdrocyte viability and surface contouring of articular cartilage through glycosaminoglycan (GAG) detection and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively during different treatment time periods with bipolar radiofrequency energy (bRFE).
    METHODS: Three fresh knees served as the experimental specimens for the study. Under sterile conditions, bRFE was used to treat the articular surface with different treatment time. Five RFE treatment time periods included 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 seconds. Full-thickness articular cartilage was then harvested from the treatment areas. Each specimen was divided into two distinct regions. Six specimens per treatment time were then assessed for chondrocyte viability through measuring the release rate of GAG; six specimens per treatment time were then assessed for the surface contouring of articular cartilage using SEM; and twelve additional untreated specimens were obtained to serve as controls for chondrocyte viability and surface contouring.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: bRFE used for articular cartilage defects induced a dose-dependent detrimental effect on chongdrocyte and chongdrocyte viability was negatively correlated with the treatment time. However, articular cartilage smoothness degree was positively correlated with the treatment time. bRFE required a minimum of 20 seconds to smooth the cartilage surface sufficiently to reach the SEM score of 2. When bRFE was used to treat articular cartilage injury, chongdrocyte viability and articular cartilage smoothness degree were associated with the treatment time. Cautions should be taken in use of RFE for treatment of articular cartilage injury until long-term effects are evaluated.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Changes in bone reconstruction dynamic parameters and bone mineral density during osteoporotic fracture healing
    Yuan Shao-hui,Liu Wei, Wu Bin-qi, Han Xi-guang, Bo Chao-gang
    2011, 15 (41):  7627-7630.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.007
    Abstract ( 306 )   PDF (535KB) ( 328 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: When osteoporotic bone strength decreases, slight trauma or other risk factors would cause fracture.
    OBJECTIVE: To observe the changes in trabecular bone, bone mineral density and bone mineral apposition rate during osteoporotic fracture healing.
    METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into osteoporosis and control groups. Rats from osteoporosis group underwent bilateral ovariectomy and 3 months later, fracture model was created. At 4, 8, 12 and 16 weeks after fracture, dynamic parameters of bone reconstruction were determined using fluorescence microscope, and bone mineral density of callus was determined using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. At 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12 and 16 weeks after fracture, bone histomorphology was measured using automatic image system.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with the control group, the ratio of mature trabecular bone to callus was lower, trabecular bone thickness was less, distance between trabecular bones was greater, percentage of trabecular bone surface fluorescence labeling and bone mineral density in callus were lower, but bone mineral apposition rate was higher, in the osteoporosis group. Results showed that abnormal changes of callus microanatomy result in decreased mechanical strength or quality of fractured bone during osteoporotic fracture healing.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Construction and histomorphological observation of tissue-engineered skins
    Dong Li, Wang Xu-sheng, Ma Shao-ying, Zhang Nai-li, Zhou Mo, Zhao Ya-ping, Li Bao-xing
    2011, 15 (41):  7631-7634.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.008
    Abstract ( 234 )   PDF (596KB) ( 342 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Tissue-engineered skins are the earliest tissue-engineered products applied to the patients. However, some important properties including rapid revascularization, mechanical strength and permanent substitution are not perfect and remain to be improved. Therefore, relevant technical steps are expected to be taken to develop an ideal permanent skin substitute.     
    OBJECTIVE: To construct tissue-engineered skins and observe the histological structure.
    METHODS: Allogenic acellular dermal matrix (ADM) as the dermal scaffold, pretreated with collagen Ⅳ and fibroblasts, were co-cultured with epidermal stem cells to construct tissue-engineered skins in vitro. Two steps during the co-culture were performed including submerging culture and air-liquid interface culture. Thereafter, the histological structure was observed by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The constructed tissue-engineered skins were made of two layers including the epidermis and dermis, the former consisted of multi-layer of epidermal cells in different differentiation conditions and the latter was the integral three-dimensional scaffold with intact collagen fibers. Tight connection could be seen between the epidermis and the dermis to form the integrated “skin”. So, in terms of histological structure, the constructed tissue-engineered skin can reach the histological requirements for the full-thick skin substitutes and can be further studied to be used as the replacement materials to repair skin defects in the clinic.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Mandibular interradicular place of beagles for microscrew implantation
    Liu Wen, Hu Yun, Deng Feng, Song Jin-lin, Zheng Lei-lei, Zhao Zhi-he, Tang Tian, Wang Zhi-qiang
    2011, 15 (41):  7635-7638.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.009
    Abstract ( 441 )   PDF (672KB) ( 397 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: The structure of Beagle’s mandible is complex, and improper place for microscrew implantation would lead to deficiency of bone mass surrounding the microscrew and microscrew loosening.
    OBJECTIVE: To study the anatomic structure of Beagle’s mandible and find out the place suitable for placing the orthodontic microscrew.
    METHODS: Five male Beagles corpses were collected. The distance between P2 and M1, the distance between tooth root crotch and inferior maxillary nerve, the degree of tooth root crotch, the mesiodistal width between the roots of teeth and the buccolingual sickness from 4 mm and 6 mm beneath the top of alveolar crests were measured through the use of sliding caliper.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The mean distance between P2 and M1 was 52.70 mm.The root crotch of M1 was the farthest place from inferior maxillary nerve, while the root crotch of P4 expressed the nearest. The degree of M1 root crotch was the biggest while P4 showed the smallest. The mesiodistal width between the roots of teeth 4 mm and 6 mm beneath the top of the alveolar crests all exceeded 5 mm and the buccolingual sickness increased. From 4 mm and 6 mm beneath the top of the alveolar crest, the mandibular interradicular place for microscrew implantation in Beagles was located between the mesial and distal roots of P2, P3, P4 and M1.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Establishment of a rabbit model of knee joint osteoarthritis combined with osteoporosis
    Zhou Jun, He Cheng-qi, Guo Hua, Xia Lu, Qin Yu-xi, Liu Hui-fang
    2011, 15 (41):  7639-7642.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.010
    Abstract ( 302 )   PDF (1259KB) ( 344 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Clinical studies have shown that there are a large proportion of patients suffering from osteoarthritis (OA) combined with osteoporosis (OP). Now the relationship between OA and OP is disputed. So an animal model of OA combined with OP is beneficial to prevention and treatment of OA combined with OP and also facilitates to understand the relationship between OA and OP.
    OBJECTIVE: To establish an animal model of OA combined with OP.
    METHODS: Fourteen white New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into a normal control group (NC group) and an ovariectomy group (OVX group). The OVX group rabbits underwent bilateral ovariectomy. The NC group rabbits received no treatments.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: At 10 weeks after OVX, the OVX group rabbits showed obvious articular cartilage degeneration and serum estrogen and femoral bone mineral density were significantly decreased, while articular cartilage Mankin scores were significantly increased compared with the NC group (P < 0.01). Articular cartilage Mankin scores were negatively correlated with serum estrogen, while bone mineral density was positively correlated with serum estrogen. These results showed that a rabbit model of OA combined with OP of the knee joint can be successfully established by OVX.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Changes in histomorphology and ultrastructure of ovaries in exercise-induced estrus disorder rats
    Fu Yan, Zhou Miao-rong, Xiong Ruo-hong
    2011, 15 (41):  7643-7646.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.011
    Abstract ( 263 )   PDF (1350KB) ( 276 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: It has important significance to research the changes in ovarian function and structures in women with athletic menstrual cycle irregularities. But at present, reports about ovarian structures in women with athletic menstrual cycle irregularities are less.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the changes in histomorphology and ultrastructure of ovaries in rats with estrus irregularities resulting from long-term exhaustive swimming and to gain more insight into mechanisms underlying athletic menstrual cycle irregularities.
    METHODS: Twenty-four female Sprague-Dawley rats, aged 3 months old, having normal estrus cycles were divided randomly into the control group and the model group with 12 rats in each group. The rats in the model group underwent exhaustive swimming every day until those estrous cycles were disordered. Hematoxylin-eosin staining and transmission electron microscopy were used to investigate the changes in histomorphology and ultrastructure of rat ovaries.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Hematoxylin-eosin staining showed that compared with the control group, typical growing follicles, mature follicles and fresh corpus luteum were relatively reduced, primordial and atretic follicles were relatively increased in the model group. Transmission electron microscope results showed that compared with the control group, less organelle and more lipid droplets both in granulocytes and lutein cells could be observed in the model group. The findings demonstrated that long-term exhaustive sports can inhibit follicular development, maturation, ovulation and corpus luteum formation and result in inhibitory changes of ultrastructure of ovarian cells. This may be one of mechanisms of athletic menstrual cycle irregularities.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Portosystemic collateral vessel and splanchnic vessel formation in a rat model of portal hypertension
    Mao Xiao-Huan, Dai Wen-Jian, Yang Li, Liu Wei
    2011, 15 (41):  7647-7652.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.012
    Abstract ( 214 )   PDF (2232KB) ( 314 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: The Apelin/APJ system has been confirmed to decrease blood pressure, strengthen systole and Apelin can stimulate angiogenesis.
    OBJECTIVE: To determine the expression of apelin and APJ in splanchnic tissues, and to test if apelin has a pathophysiological role in the development of splanchnic neovascularization, splanchnic hyperemia, and portosystemic collateralization in a rat model of portal hypertension.
    METHODS: Partial portal vein-ligated rats were treated with the APJ antagonist F13A for 7 days. Splanchnic neovascularization and expression of angiogenesis mediators (western blotting) were determined. Portosystemic collateral formation (microspheres) and hemodynamic parameters (?ow cytometry) were also assessed.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Apelin and its receptor APJ were overexpressed in the splanchnic vasculature of portal hypertensive rats. F13A effectively decreased, by 52%, splanchnic neovascularization and expression of proangiogenic factors vascular endothelial growth factor, platelet derived growth factor, and angiopoietin-2 in portal hypertensive rats. F13A also reduced, by 35%, the formation of portosystemic collateral vessels. These findings suggest that the apelin/APJ system contributes to portosystemic collateralization and splanchnic neovascularization in portal hypertensive rats, presenting a potential novel therapeutic target for portal hypertension.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Vascular endothelial growth factor and nuclear factor-kappa B1 expression in a nude mouse model of MG63 and MG63/ADR osteosarcoma
    Sun Jiao, Zhang Chun-lin, Wu Xiao-san, Zhao Shi-chang, Zhao Yao, Zeng Bing-fang
    2011, 15 (41):  7653-7656.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.013
    Abstract ( 307 )   PDF (1177KB) ( 339 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Studies concerning sarcoma drug resistance found that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and nuclear factor-kappa B1 (NF-κB1) may be closely related to drug resistance, but few studies are involved in osteosarcoma. Establishment of animal models and gene expression of VEGF and NF-κB1 may reveal the association between genes and drug resistance in osteosarcoma.
    OBJECTIVE: To observe gene expression differences of VEGF and NF-κB1 in a nude mouse model of MG63 and MG63/ADR osteosarcoma.
    METHODS: An adriamycin-resistant human osteosarcoma cell subline (MG63/ADR) was established in vitro using gradually increased concentration of adriamycin (ADM) in culture. BALB/C nude mice were divided into MG63 and MG63/ADR groups with 10 mice in each group. The animal model of osteosarcoma xenografts was constructed by subcutaneous inoculation of osteosarcoma MG63 and MG63/ADR cells respectively. Two group mice were killed at 6 weeks and gene expression differences of VEGF and NF-κB1 in the tumor formation of two groups were detected using immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR method.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Both VEGF and NF-κB1 expression in MG63/ADR group was significantly higher compared with the MG63 group. The upregulation of VEGF and NF-κB1 may be an important reason of drug resistance in osteosarcoma, providing an experimental basis for exploring the molecular mechanism of drug resistance in osteosarcoma and finding more effective targets of osteosarcoma treatment.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effects of compound panax notoginseng on proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression in liver tissue of rats exposed to formaldehyde vapor
    Wang Jian-wei, Liu Sheng-yong, Lei Xiu-bing, Wang Zhen-yu, Cheng Jia-mao, Chen Feng, Yue Bing, Wang Ke, Tian Long, Zhang Wei-guang
    2011, 15 (41):  7657-7660.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.014
    Abstract ( 284 )   PDF (1303KB) ( 335 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Formaldehyde is a commonly used chemical substance which can cause serious damage to the body as a toxicant, and there is lack of effective control methods.
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the curative effect of compound panax notoginseng (CPN) on the proliferation of hepatic cells of Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to formaldehyde vapor.
    METHODS: Eighteen Sprague-Dawley male rats were randomly divided into three groups: control, formaldehyde and CPN. Nothing was done to the control group rats. The formaldehyde group rats were exposed to formaldehyde vapor in static toxification chambers, 8 hours/day, 5 days/week, for a total of 8 weeks. The CPN group rats were treated as the same the formaldehyde group, with exception of intragastric administration of CPN once a day since the 5th week.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Hematoxylin-eosin staining results showed that the hepatic lobule morphology of the formaldehyde group significantly disordered at the 8th week, which suggested an obvious proliferation state, and the hepatic sinusoid was narrower compared with the control group; however, the morphological structure of liver tissue in the CPN group was greatly recovered. Immunohistochemical results showed that the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was significantly increased at the 8th week in the formaldehyde group than in the control group (P < 0.01), but the expression was significantly decreased in the CPN group than in the formaldehyde group (P < 0.01). These findings suggest that CPN can decrease the expression of PCNA which was induced by formaldehyde and effectively alleviate formaldehyde-induced hepatic cell proliferation, therefore exhibiting beneficial effects on the liver of SD rats exposed to formaldehyde vapor.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Heat shock protein 70 expression after Shenfu injection administration in a rat model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury   
    Jiang Cheng-ping, Liu Fu, Li Yi, Wang Bai-qiang, Tang Xiao-rong, Wu Bi-hua, Wang Xiao-ming
    2011, 15 (41):  7661-7664.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.015
    Abstract ( 340 )   PDF (1349KB) ( 260 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Shenfu injection plays a protective effect on ischemia/reperfusion injury in improving microcirculation and increasing blood oxygen content in tissue.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of Shenfu injection on heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) expression in a rat model of cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury.
    METHODS: SD rats were randomly divided into three groups (n=32 for each group): sham-operated, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), and Shenfu injection.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Shenfu injection improved the arrangement of brain nerve cells, reduced the swelling of cell bodies and pyknosis at 1 day after administration. At 3 days after Shenfu injection administration, a more obvious trend on the attenuation of the above phenomena was observed. At 1 and 3 days, Hsp70 expression was significantly higher in the Shenfu injection group than in the sham-operated and MCAO groups. These finding suggest that Shenfu injection exhibits a significant protective effect on cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury, and this protective effect may be implemented by increasing Hsp70 expression.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effect of orange daylily active component flavone glycosides on liver function in a rat model of hepatic fibrosis
    Huang Hong-yan, Li Yu-bai
    2011, 15 (41):  7665-7668.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.016
    Abstract ( 353 )   PDF (1283KB) ( 311 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Orange daylily active component flavone glycosides has been considered to be able to regulate organism metabolism, get rid of superoxide anion radicals and metabolic waste in vivo, improve liver function and delay the progress of hepatic fibrosis.
    OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of flavone glycosides on liver function in a rat model of hepatic fibrosis.
    METHODS: Hepatic fibrosis models were developed by carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induction, and flavone glycosides was given orally to rats. After 4-week experimentation, blood was selected and alanine aminotransferase (ALT), albumin (ALB), albumin/globulin ratio (A/G), high density lipoprotein (HDL) in serum were detected. Rat food intake, actitives and growth were observed. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After 4 week experimentation, the mortality was 37.5% and 12.5% in the CCl4 model group and flavone glycosides group, respectively. Another 2 weeks later, rat body mass was significantly decreased in the model group   (P < 0.05). Compared with the negative control group, rat body mass in the flavone glycosides group was not significantly decreased (P > 0.05). Compared with CCl4 model group, liver mass/body mass ratio was slighly decreased in the flavone glycosides group. Compared with CCl4 model group, serum level of ALT, ALB, A/G was significantly decreased in the flavone glycosides group. There was no significant difference in these indices between flavone glycosides group and negative control group. These findings suggest that during the pathological process of hepatic fibrosis, intervention with orange daylily active component flavone glycosides can effectively relieve rat liver damage and improve liver function.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Detection of autocrine transforming growth factor-beta 1 concentration in the primary fibroblasts and fibrosarcoma cells and effects on cell proliferation
    Liu Ping, Li Ping, Peng Yan, Yang Nan, Zhou Yuan-guo
    2011, 15 (41):  7669-7672.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.017
    Abstract ( 278 )   PDF (1431KB) ( 393 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Although tremendous strides have been made in clarifying the different regulation mechanisms of cell proliferation on normal cells and tumor cells, until now, it is still not clear. Exogenous stimulation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) is often used in vitro experiments to observe the changes in cell proliferation and the effects of autocrine TGF-β1 itself are easily ignored.
    OBJECTIVE: To detect the concentration of autocrine TGF-β1and cell proliferation of the primary fibroblasts (Fb) and fibrosarcoma cells (L929), and to investigate the effects of the autocrine TGF-β1 on cell proliferation.
    METHODS: The TGF-β1 levels in cells and supernatants of Fb and L929 cells were detected by ELISA test kit. The proliferation of Fb and L929 cells were detected by MTT assay.
    RESULTS: TGF-β1 concentration in L929 cells increased with prolonged incubation time, whereas TGF-β1 concentration in Fb cells decreased with prolonged incubation time. TGF-β1 concentration in supernatant of Fb and L929 cells increased with prolonged incubation time, but TGF-β1 concentration in supernatant of L929 cells was significantly higher than that of Fb cells   (P < 0.01). The cell proliferation curves both in Fb and L929 cells were significantly increased within 72 hours (P < 0.01). Compared with the same time, the cell proliferation of L929 cells was significantly higher than that of Fb cells. The autocrine TGF-β1 of the Fb and L929 cells can promote cell proliferation, and different levels of autocrine TGF-β1 maybe the important reason for different reactions of Fb and L929 cells stimulated by exogenous TGF-β1.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Core binding factor alpha 1 expression in condylar cartilage under different microscrew anchorage orthodontic forces
    Zhao Gang, Shao Xin, Li De-chao, Zhang Qing-yu, Wang Dan
    2011, 15 (41):  7673-7676.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.018
    Abstract ( 240 )   PDF (1364KB) ( 332 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Recently, microscrew anchorage implant has been widely used in the orthodontics due to its simple operation, little trauma and strong anchorage, but it is rarely used in type Ⅱ intermaxillary extraction.
    OBJECTIVE: To establish the animal experiment model of orthodontic microimplant, to investigate the effects of orthodontic forces on the expression of core binding factor a1 (Cbfa1) in condylar cartilage and on condylar process modification.
    METHODS: Thirty 8-week-old healthy New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into experimental group (n=24) and control group (n=6). According to different forces, the experimental group was randomly subdivided into four groups: 100 g, 200 g, 300 g, and 400 g. Rabbits from the experimental group were performed type Ⅱ intermaxillary extraction taking microscrew implants as anchorages. At 4 weeks after surgery, Cbfa1 expression in the condylar cartilage was detected.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Different orthodontic forces resulted in different Cbfa1 expression in the condylar cartilage. When orthodontic force was 100 g and 200 g, Cbfa1 expression was significantly higher compared with the control group and orthodontic force of 200 g lead to highest Cbfa1 expression. When the orthodontic force was 300 g, there was no significant difference between the experimental and control groups (P > 0.05). When orthodontic force was 400 g, Cbfa1 expression was significantly greater in the experimental group than in the control group (P < 0.05). Orthodontic force can influence the expression of Cbfa1 in the condylar cartilage, suggesting that appropriate orthodontic forces have good effects on remodeling condylar cartilage.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Nuclear factor-kappa B and cellular Fas-associated death domain-like interleukin-1 beta-convening enzyme inhibitory protein expression in fibroblasts from normal bile duct and biliary scar tissue of Diannan small-eared pigs
    Hu Ping-hai, Yang Hui, Li Li
    2011, 15 (41):  7677-7680.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.019
    Abstract ( 240 )   PDF (1311KB) ( 357 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Biliary scar formation results in destroyed balance between cell proliferation and apoptosis, in particular, fibroblasts greatly proliferate and excessively secrete collagen. 
    OBJECTIVE: To compare nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and cellular Fas-associated death domain-like interleukin-1 beta-convening enzyme (FLICE) inhibitory protein expression in fibroblasts from normal bile duct and biliary scar tissue of Diannan small-eared pigs.
    METHODS: Eight Diannan small-eared pigs were randomly divided into model group and normal control group. In the model group, biliary scar tissue-derived fibroblasts were harvested by establishing bile duct injury models. In the normal control group, normal bile duct fibroblasts were harvested.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Compared with normal bile duct-derived fibroblasts, NF-κB and FLICE inhibitory protein expression was greater in the biliary scar tissue-derived fibroblast. These findings suggest that after biliary duct injury, NF-κB expression was increased and FLICE inhibitory protein was overexpressed, which leads to reduction in bile duct fibroblasts and finally results in biliary scar formation.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effects of osthole on fibroblast proliferation and transforming growth factor beta 1 expression in hypertrophic scar tissue
    Hou Xiao-hua, Chen Hong, Cao Bo
    2011, 15 (41):  7681-7684.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.020
    Abstract ( 241 )   PDF (1358KB) ( 351 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Osthole exhibits inhibitory effects on human fibroblast proliferation and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) expression in hypertrophic scar tissue, but the precise mechanisms remains poorly understood.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of osthole on human fibroblast proliferation and TGF-β1 expression in hypertrophic scar tissue.
    METHODS: Human hypertrophic scar fibroblasts cells were cultured in vitro and then treated by osthole at different concentrations. The growth inhibitory effects were observed by MTT assay and cell growth curve. The expression of TGF-β1 was detected by immunohistochemistry.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Osthole could obviously inhibit the growth of human hypertrophic scar fibroblasts. MTT assay showed that osthole IC50 value toward hypertrophic scar fibroblasts was 15.2±2.0 μmol/L. Furthermore, the results of cell growth curve matched with the above results. Immunohistochemistry results showed that osthole could obviously inhibit TGF-β1 expression in the fibroblasts derived from hypertrophic scar tissue compared with the control group (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that osthole strongly inhibits the growth of human hypertrophic scar fibroblasts and decreases the expression of TGF-β1.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effects of treadmill running on hippocampal neurogenesis and mRNA expression in vascular endothelial growth factor in a rat model of ischemia and reperfusion injury
    Yang Ruo-yu, Lou Shu-jie, Chen Xiu-en
    2011, 15 (41):  7685-7688.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.021
    Abstract ( 248 )   PDF (1317KB) ( 274 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Several studies have demonstrated that treadmill running can promote hippocampal neurogenesis in healthy rats.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of treadmill running on hippocampal neurogenesis and mRNA expression in vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF) in a rat model of ischemia and reperfusion injury.
    METHODS: The method of reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was used to obtain rat models of ischemia and reperfusion injury. MCAO rat models were randomly divided into exercise group and control group. A sham-operated group was used. Rats in the control and sham-operated groups were fed without exercise. The exercise group rats were subjected to 7-day treadmill running. The exercise and control group rats were intraperitoneally injected with 5-bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) solution.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Immunohistochemical staining results showed that BrdU-positive cells in the bilateral hippocampus and dentate gyrus were significantly more in the exercise group than in the control group (P < 0.01). Real time quantitative PCR results showed that mRNA expression in VEGF was significantly greater in the exercise group than in the control and sham-operated groups (P < 0.05). The results suggest that appropriate treadmill running can promote hippocampal neurogenesis and further enhance the mRNA expression in hippocampal VEGF in ischemia and reperfusion adult rats.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effects of serum concentration on the proliferation of human cytokine induced killer cells
    Ren Si-po, Han Guang-yu, Shi Li, Tan Kun, Geng Yue-chun, Yang Qin-xiang, Wang Jian
    2011, 15 (41):  7689-7692.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.022
    Abstract ( 258 )   PDF (682KB) ( 332 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Cytokine induced killer (CIK) cells are cultured mostly in 10% serum, but there have been few studies describing the effects of serum concentration on growth characteristics of CIK cells.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the proliferation of CIK cells in different concentrations of serum.
    METHODS: CIK cells were cultured with 10%, 20% and 30% fetal bovine serum supplemented with recombinant human interleukin (IL-2). The effects of serum concentration on cell cycle were analyzed using flow cytometry. The proliferation of CIK in different concentrations of serum was determined by MTT assay and the growth characteristics of CIK cells were observed.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The proliferation rate and proliferation index of CIK cells were the lowest in 10% serum and highest in 30% serum. There was statistical significance in proliferation rate among three groups (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01). The proliferation of CIK cells cultured are serum concentration-dependent in vitro.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Construction of eukaryotic expression vecter for human ski gene and observation of its role in promoting cell proliferation
    Peng Yan, Li Ping, Liu Ping, Chen Lei, Zhao Xiao-guang, Zhou Yuan-guo
    2011, 15 (41):  7693-7696.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.023
    Abstract ( 287 )   PDF (831KB) ( 476 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: c-Ski can promote tissue repair and alleviate scar formation, which is expected to be a new gene therapeutic drugs.
    OBJECTIVE: To construct eukaryotic expression plasmid of human ski gene and to investigate its proliferative role in fibroblasts.
    METHODS: The ski gene was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from human foreskin cultured fibroblast and was sub-cloned into pUC118 with CMV eukaryotic promoter. The recombinant pUC118-Ski plasmids were transfected into rat skin fibroblasts using lipofectamine TM 2000 and then its protein expression and effect of the proliferation were detected.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: pUC118-Ski vector was constructed successfully which was confirmed by restriction endonuclease digestion and DNA sequencing. It expressed successfully and significantly improved the effect of the proliferation in transfected fibroblasts. Recombinant eukaryotic expression plasmid pUC118-Ski can improve the proliferation of rat skin fibroblasts.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Construction of rabbit polyclonal antibody against human FXIII A subunit and its specificity identification
    Chen Xiao-tian, Luo Yun-ya, Zhang Guang-sen
    2011, 15 (41):  7697-7700.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.024
    Abstract ( 360 )   PDF (467KB) ( 284 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: There have been no reports regarding the precise FXIII binding epitopes for blood coagulation factor XIII (FXIII) acting on FXIII inhibitor.
    OBJECTIVE: To prepare rabbit polyclonal antibody against human FXIII A subunit by immunologic method, and to identify antibody specificity and activity.
    METHODS: The polyclonal antibody was prepared by immunizing rabbits using artificially synthesized FXIIIA subunit. Antibody specificity was identified by Dot blot method, and antibody activity was determined by antibody-neutralizing/ urea-lysis test. Serum level of FXIII in two patients with acquired FXIII deficiency was determined by western blot assay. The FXIII binding epitopes of these two patients were analyzed by Dot blot method.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Dot blot results showed that the polyclonal antibody against FXIII A subunit had already been produced in rabbit serum. The antibody not only binded to purified human FXIII and transglutaminase active site, but also inhibited the activity of FXIII in vitro. The FXIII antigen level in two patients with acquired FXIII deficiency could be detected using this antibody and active site of transglutaminase on FXIII was the binding epitope of FXIII inhibitor in case 2, but not in case 1. The successful preparation of polyclonal antibody, which is applied to detect FXIII deficiency and determine FXIII binding epitopes, provides basis for studying the mechanism of acquired FXIII deficiency and clinical diagnosis.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Rapid construction of herpes simplex virus type I vector for gene therapy 
    Cai Xiao-hui, Zhang Qin-xian
    2011, 15 (41):  7701-7705.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.025
    Abstract ( 280 )   PDF (1699KB) ( 342 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Herpes simplex virus typeⅠ(HSV-1) vector has been currently widely used due to its unique advantages, but a rapid and effect method is needed to construct this vector.
    OBJECTIVE: To develop a rapid method using Cre/loxp site specific recombination system to construct HSV-1 vector.
    METHODS: HSV-1 was isolated and c66-SV40-cre plasmid containing Cre recombinase was used to transfect Vero cells. Then HSV-1 HSVLoxp was constructed. Shuttle vector pShuttle-SV40-Cre-Loxp-IRES and HSV-I vector HSV-GDNF were constructed. The positive strains screened by HAT culture medium were identified by PCR taking GDNF as primer. After amplification, titer was determined.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: A strain of HSV-1 was isolated and pHV-TK-GFP was constructed successfully. Recombinant virus HSVtk-Loxp-GFP01 without Us3 gene was isolated. HSV-1 HSVLoxp and shuttle vector pShuttle- SV40-Cre-Loxp-IRES were successfully constructed. GDNF gene was successfully obtained and transferred into HSV-1 vector. Thus, HSV-1 vector expressing GDNF was successfully constructed and the titer was 2.25×106 IU/mL.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Construction of pTIE2-CREG-EGFP-N1 eukaryotic expression plasmid and its expression in mouse artery endothelial cells
    Li Jie, Yan Cheng-hui, Zhang Xiao-lin, Liang Zhen-yang, Feng Xue-yao, Bai Jing, Han Ya-ling
    2011, 15 (41):  7706-7710.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.026
    Abstract ( 263 )   PDF (1521KB) ( 357 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: The molecular mechanism of blood vessel endothelium formation is the primary premise for cellular and gene replacement therapy.
    OBJECTIVE: To construct an eukaryotic expression plasmid for cellular repressor of E1A-stimulated genes (CREG) driven by an endothelial cell specific promoter TIE2 and reported by enhanced green fluorescence protein (EGFP), and then to observe its expression in mouse artery endothelial cells in vitro.
    METHODS: TIE2 promoter DNA sequence was synthesized according to GenBank, and was attached with AseⅠ and NheⅠrestriction enzyme recognition sites at both ends, respectively. The TIE2 promoter sequence was released from pUC57-TIE2 plasmid by AseⅠ and NheⅠ digestion enzymes, and then was inserted into pEGFP-N1 plasmid to form pTIE2-EGFP-N1 recombinant plasmid. CREG gene fragment was released from pcDNA3.1 myc-His/hCREG plasmid by BamHⅠ and EcoRⅠdigestion enzymes, and then was subcloned into pTIE2-EGFP-N1 plasmid in order to construct pTIE2-CREG-EGFP-N1 plasmid. The recombinant pTIE2-CREG-EGFP-N1 plasmid was then transfected into mouse artery endothelial cells by liposome. The EGFP expression was observed by fluorescence microscopy and the CREG expression was detected by western blot analysis.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Identification of pTIE2-CREG-EGFP-N1 by enzyme digestion and sequencing analysis showed that lengths of the target genes which were inserted into the recombinant plasmid were correct, and that the recombinant plasmid was transfected into mouse artery endothelial cells successfully. The strong expression of EGFP was observed by fluorescence microscopy, and the expression of CREG protein was detected by western blot analyis. The results showed that the pTIE2-CREG-EGFP-N1 eukaryotic expression plasmid was successfully constructed and the recombinant vector provides a practical tool in investigating the function and regulation of CREG in the development of cardiovascular diseases and also in producing transgenic mice with endothelial cell specific over-expression of CREG.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Green fluorescence protein gene expression in human nucleus pulposus cells mediated by different titers of lentivirus
    Zhang Li, Ma Xun, Guan Xiao-ming, Zhao Sheng, Song Wen-hui, Feng Hao-yu
    2011, 15 (41):  7711-7714.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.027
    Abstract ( 285 )   PDF (1255KB) ( 258 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: In the study of intervertebral disc tissue engineering, the intervertebral disc cells modified by gene engineering have the advantages of fast growth and secreting more extracellular matrix as the seed cells. Investigating the infection efficiency of intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus (NP) cells infected by lentivirus will have practical value.
    OBJECTIVE: To detect the infection condition and infection parameter of human NP cells infected by different titers of green fluorescence protein mediated by lentivirus. To provide the experimental evidence for the lentivirus infection as gene vector to the human NP cells.
    METHODS: Human NP cells were isolated and cultured from two idiopathic scoliosis patients via enzyme digestion. High titer of lentivirus-mediated green fluorescence protein (GFP) gene was constructed by gene reconstitution technique. The passage 2 NP cells were infected with different multiplicities of infection (MOIs), and green fluorescence was observed using an inverted fluorescence microscope. The infection efficiency was detected by flow cytometry.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After 4 days, the infection efficiency of the passage 2 NP cells infected with different MOIs (1, 10, 50 and 100) was 32.1%, 41.1%, 54.2% and 86.8%, respectively. The expression of GFP in the NP cells was maintained above 60% until the passage 5. The GFP gene mediated by lentivirus was effectively expressed in human NP cells for a long time period. It may provide evidence that lentivirus-mediated GFP gene is highly effectively expressed in human NP cells.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Retinal erythropoietin expression in embryonic and postnatal rats
    Meng Xu-xia, Zhang Yan, Niu Ying-yun
    2011, 15 (41):  7715-7718.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.028
    Abstract ( 207 )   PDF (342KB) ( 275 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Erythropoietin (EPO) is downstream target gene of hypoxia inducible factor-1 and regulated by hypoxia inducible factor-1.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate EPO expression during embryonic development of rat retina and postnatal early development and explore the role of EPO in retinal development. 
    METHODS: Five embryo of 12, 16, 20 days and five adult Wistar rats were sacrificed. Their eyeballs were harvested and retina was separated. EPO protein and mRNA expression was detected by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR, respectively. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: EPO expression was detected in cytoplasm and nuclei of neuroepithelium of retina and pigment epithelial cells during embryonic development of rat retina. The expression was gradually decreased. EPO expression was the weakest in adult rat retina. Results showed that EPO expression exhibited spatial changes during embryonic development of rat retina, which may correlate closely to the embryonic development of rat retina.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Construction and identification of p4CCL20-ZsGreen1-DR eukaryotic expression vector
    Wang Yong, Wang Zhi-zhong, Zhong Bing, Wang Heng, Zou Qing-hua, Chen Yu
    2011, 15 (41):  7719-7722.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.029
    Abstract ( 278 )   PDF (364KB) ( 437 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: It is necessary to establish a high throughput screening system for anti-inflammatory drugs for rheumatoid arthritis.
    OBJECTIVE: To construct an eukaryotic expression vector p4CCL20-ZsGreen1-DR with the NF-B cis-acting element 4×CCL20 motif as an enhancer, SV40 as a promoter, and ZsGreen1-DR as a reporter gene.
    METHODS: The target fragment SV40 was PCR amplified using PGL2-control plasmid as a template. KpnⅠ/Bam HⅠ restriction sites were introduced into the flank of the target fragment. Then, pSV40-ZsGreen1-DR vector was constructed by cloning the target fragment into pZsGreen1-DR plasmid. Finally, p4CCL20-ZsGreen1-DR plasmid was constructed by cloning the double strand DNA of 4×CCL20 motif (with BglⅡ and EcoRⅠ sticky ends at the 5’ and 3’ terminus, respectively) into the corresponding restriction sites of pSV40-ZsGreen1-DR vector (upstream of SV40 promoter).
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: DNA sequencing demonstrated successful construction of p4CCL20-ZsGreen1-DR plasmid. The construction of p4CCL20-ZsGreen1-DR plasmid might be useful to establish a high throughput screening system for anti-inflammatory drugs.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Construction and identification of lentiviral vector of RNA interference of prolyl-4 hydroxylase-2 gene
    Ma Fang-fang, Wang Hou-zhao, Shen Xiao li
    2011, 15 (41):  7723-7725.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.030
    Abstract ( 287 )   PDF (485KB) ( 257 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Lentiviral vector can stably mediate gene silencing with high transfection efficiency.
    OBJECTIVE: To construct and identify a lentiviral vector of RNA interference (RNAi) of prolyl-4 hydroxylase-2 (P4HA2) gene.
    METHODS: The effective sequence of siRNA targeting P4HA2 gene was confirmed in our previous study. The complementary DNA containing both sense and antisense Oligo DNA of the targeting sequence was designed, synthesized and cloned into the pGCSIL-GFP vector to construct a lentiviral vector which expressed short hairpin RNA (shRNA), and it was identified by PCR and DNA sequencing.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: PCR identification and DNA sequencing demonstrated that insertion of oligonucleotide of the lentivirus RNAi vector containing P4HA2 shRNA was right. Results suggested that the lentivirus RNAi vector of P4HA2 was constructed successfully.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Simvastatin inhibits the apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells induced by high glucose
    Xu Mao-feng, Li Yong-jie, Wang Wan-li
    2011, 15 (41):  7726-7729.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.031
    Abstract ( 217 )   PDF (578KB) ( 336 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Whether statins influence apoptosis of vascular endothelial cells remains poorly understood.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of simvastatin on the apoptosis of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (hUVECs) induced by high glucose and to explore its potential molecular mechanism.
    METHODS: hUVECs were cultured with DMEM and then divided into three groups: blank control, high glucose, high glucose + simvastatin. The survival rates of hUVECs were detected by MTT assay after hUVECs were incubated with 25 mmol/L glucose and 1 μmol/L simvastatin for 24 hours. The early apoptosis rate and P53 protein expression were detected by flow cytometry and western blot analysis, respectively.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The value of MTT was significantly decreased in the high glucose group and high glucose + simvastatin group than in the blank control group (P < 0.01), and the MTT value was significantly decreased in the high glucose group than in the simvastatin group (P < 0.01). P53 protein expression and early apoptosis rate were significantly increased in the blank control group than in the high glucose + simvastatin group (P< 0.01), and P53 protein expression and early apoptosis rate were significantly higher in the high glucose + simvastatin group than in the blank control group (P< 0.01). These results suggest that high glucose promotes the apoptosis of hUVECs by promoting P53 protein expression, while simvastatin inhibits the apoptosis of hUVECs.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effect of ferulic acid and its esterified product on survival of rat cerebral cortex neurons cultured in vitro
    Sheng Yan-mei, Zhang Jing, Luo Wei-zao, Zhang Yi
    2011, 15 (41):  7730-7733.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.032
    Abstract ( 207 )   PDF (729KB) ( 437 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Many active components of traditional Chinese medicine of brain nerve protection screened in vitro have been limited in clinical application because of difficulties in passing through blood brain barrier due to low liposolubility.
    OBJECTIVE: To compare the protective effect of ferulic acid and its esterified products ferulic acid methyl ester and ethyl ester on in vitro survival of primary cultred cerebral cortex neurons. 
    METHODS: Cerebral cortex neurons from rats at postnatal 1 day were isolated by enzyme digestion method. After 6 days of culture, these neurons were interfered with ferulic acid, ferulic acid methyl ester and ethyl ester and then cultured for 1 day.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Morphological results showed that cells well grew. Neuron specific enolase staining showed that after 6 days of culture, most of surviving cells were neurons. MTT examination results showed that compared with blank control group, 200 mg/L ferulic acid could obviously promote the survival of cerebral cortex neurons, while 0.16-20 mg/L ferulic acid methyl ester and ethyl ester could obviously promote the in vitro survival of neurons, with similar tendency and strength. These results suggest that ferulic acid esterified products ferulic acid methyl ester and ethyl ester can promote the in vitro survival of primary cultured cerebral cortex neurons, exhibiting good protective effects on brain neurons, with stronger activity than ferulic acid.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Measurement and comparisons of organ weight, organ coefficient, hematological parameters and hematological biochemical parameters of specific pathogen free Balb/c mice
    Zhang Xiu-yan, Zhan Chun-lie, Xiao Yu-hua, Tang Xian-guo
    2011, 15 (41):  7734-7737.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.033
    Abstract ( 340 )   PDF (637KB) ( 1817 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Measuring important basic data of experimental animals is the important basis for standardization and management of experimental animals.
    OBJECTIVE: To measure and compare organ weight, organ coefficient, hematological parameters and hematological biochemical parameters of specific pathogen free (SPF) Balb/c mice.
    METHODS: A total of 240 Balb/c mice were fed for 1 week and then organ weights, organ coefficient, hematological parameters and hematological biochemical parameters were measured.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: There were significant differences in weights of the heart, lung, spleen, double kidneys, and bladder between female and male Balb/c mice (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). There were significant differences in organ coefficient of lung, spleen, double kidneys and bladder between female and male Balb/c mice (P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). There were significant differences in leukocyte, monocytes, basophils, monocytes (%), eosinophils, basophils (%), erythrocyte, hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, and red blood cell distribution width between female and male Balb/c mice (P < 0.01 or    P < 0.05). There were significant differences in total protein, albumin, A/G, glucose, urea nitrogen, creatinine, uric acid, triglycerides, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein, high density lipoprotein, iron, and phosphorus between female and male Balb/c mice(P < 0.01 or P < 0.05). These results suggest that gender has influences on organ weight, organ coefficient, hematological parameters and hematological biochemical parameters of SPF Balb/c mice.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Construction of survivin shRNA recombinant expression vector and downregulation of survivin mRNA expression in PC3 cells
    Xu Jian-hua, Chen Dan-na, He Min, Huang Xian-zhang, Zhuang Jun-hua, Li Mei-xian, Jin Xiao-bao, Lu Xue-mei, Zhu Jia-yong
    2011, 15 (41):  7738-7741.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.034
    Abstract ( 218 )   PDF (528KB) ( 348 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: survivin mRNA is specifically expressed in tumor and embryonic tissue and is closely related to differentiation, proliferation, infiltration and metastasis of tumor cells as well as multidrug resistance.
    OBJECTIVE: To construct the expression vector of small hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting human survivin gene and detect the effectiveness of gene silencing in PC3 cells (human prostate cancer cell line).
    METHODS: Two single-stranded DNA oligonucleotides for shRNA expression targeted survivin gene were chemically synthesized. The top and bottom strand oligos were annealed to generate a double-stranded oligonucleotide (ds oligo). The the oligo was cloned into pENTR/U6 expression vector (pENTR/U6-SUR), and then PCR and sequencing analyses were conducted to verify the constructs. After transfecting the verified plasmids into PC3 cells, RT-PCR was performed to determine the mRNA level of survivin gene.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: PCR and sequencing analyses demonstrated that shRNA template targeting survivin gene had been inserted at the expected site and the insertion sequence was perfectly corrected. The RT-PCR results showed that survivin expression in PC3 was downregulated at mRNA level. The recombinant plasmid had a better affect at 24 hours than 48 hours. The shRNA expression vector targeting survivin gene has been constructed successfully, and it would be a useful method to develop specific survivin-silencing therapeutics in further gene therapy study.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase levels in patients with cleidocranial dysplasia: one case report
    Li Yang-fei, Qin Han, Xu Hong-zhi
    2011, 15 (41):  7742-7744.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.035
    Abstract ( 276 )   PDF (363KB) ( 443 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase levels are closely related to skeletal development.
    OBJECTIVE: To observe bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase levels in patients with cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD).
    METHODS: Clinical data of one case of CCD were collected. The osseous malformation over the entire body was examined by panoramic radiography. A CCD phenotype was defined by the presence of hypoplastic clavicles and delayed closure of the anterior fontanels in addition to the presence of classic eraniofaeial features. Laboratory examination was used to detect the change of bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase levels.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The patients had obvious clinical characteristics of CCD, such as clavicle rudiment or absence, delayed closure of cranial fontanels and sutures, supernumerary and late erupting teeth, wide pubic symphysis, and other skeletal anomalies. The skeletal abnormalities as well as oral manifestations of the syndrome were variable within the affected patient. But abnormal chromosome was not found in this patient. Bone-specific alkaline phosphatase and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase levels were increased. These findings suggest that CCD patients may accompany with the genetic variation of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Tissue-engineered cartilage for treatment of articular cartilage defects
    Xu Rong-yao, Zhang Shou
    2011, 15 (41):  7747-7750.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.037
    Abstract ( 280 )   PDF (780KB) ( 288 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: At present, the methods for treatment of articular cartilage defects have obvious shortcomings. Tissue-engineered cartilage for repair of articular cartilage defects provides a novel method to treat cartilage defects with minimal invasion.
    OBJECTIVE: To summarize the research progress in tissue-engineered cartilage for repair of articular cartilage degects.
    METHODS: A computer-based retrieval was performed by the first author in the Wanfang data (2000/2010)and Pubmed database (2000/2010) using the key words “articular cartilage defects, tissue-engineered cartilage” in English and Chinese. The development and construction of tissue-engineered cartilage were summarized. A total of 666 manuscripts were searched. According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, 23 manuscripts were included in the final analysis.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: With increasing development of cell scaffold material and tissue construction technique, tissue-engineered cartilage of active cells and scaffold material provides a novel therapeutic method for treatment of articular cartilage defects with minimal invasion, so tissue-engineered cartilage for treatment of cartilage defects is completely feasible, and C-GP gel has good compatibility with seeded cells and can be used as the ideal scaffold for tissue-engineered cartilage. But preparation and selection of cell scaffold remains a difficult problem for tissue-engineered cartilage.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Research progress in osteogenic effects of bone morphogenetic protein 9
    Jiang Wei, Hu Zhen-ming, Hao Jie, Liu Bo, Gan Qiang
    2011, 15 (41):  7751-7754.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.038
    Abstract ( 202 )   PDF (601KB) ( 273 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Tissue-engineered artificial bone is an effective way to solve the bone deficiency of traditional bone grafting, and the slow formation of new bones. Furthermore, looking for the factors and technology which promote cell proliferation and osteogenic differentiation is a key of current study on tissue engineering bone.
    OBJECTIVE: To overall understand the osteogenic mechanism, function and expression and purification methods of bone morphogenetic protein 9 (BMP-9) and to lay the foundation for better implementation of osteogenic differentiation factor in clinical bone formation and repair bone defects.
    METHODS: A computer-based retrieval was performed in PubMed database (2000-01/2010-12) and CNKI database (2006-01/2010-12) to search review, reports regarding BMP-9. The osteogenic mechanism, function and expression and purification of BMP-9 were analyzed.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Twenty-one papers regarding BMP-9 were included. In the process of bone formation induced by BMP-9, classical Wnt signaling pathway, Hey 1, basic Helix-loop-helix protein, peroxidase of proliferation activation receptor-gamma-2, activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1), ALK2, insulin-like growth factor-2, type of vitamin A and other mechanisms play an important role. At present, BMP-9 has proven to be the transforming growth factor that has the strongest osteogenic potential in vivo and in vitro. Studies on BMP-9 mainly taking recombinant adeno-associated virus as a vector, but the current construction of the virus vectors will have many genes of the proteins encoded, whose expression products have strong immunogenicity, and the application has security risks. Some scholars used eukaryotic plasmid as vector and transfected it into enkaryotic cells and obtained bone morphogenetic protein-4. But whether this method can be used to produce BMP-9 and to solve the adenovirus-application security issues, and provide clinical treatment of bone defect with biotechnical support, still requires further study.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Application of platelet-rich plasma in treatment of bone repair
    Chen Jian, Yuan Wen, Song Dian-wen
    2011, 15 (41):  7755-7758.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.039
    Abstract ( 325 )   PDF (569KB) ( 405 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is capable to enhance the repair of many kinds of tissue. It is now more and more used to treat the bone or soft tissue deficiency in orthopedic clinics.
    OBJECTIVE: To summarize the new progress of PRP and its applications in orthopedics in recent years.
    METHODS: A compute-based online search of Pubmed database from January 1999 to January 2011 and China National Knowledge Infrastructure from January 1999 to January 2011 was performed using the key words of “platelet-rich plasma, bone formation, tissue engineering”. The experimental studies about PRP and clinical applications in orthopedics were included. Repeated or out-of-date studies were excluded. Totally, 301 articles were collected and finally 48 were included according to inclusion and exclusion criteria.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Although with controversy, PRP is a promising technique, especially as scaffold of tissue engineering. It would be very helpful in development of bone tissue engineering. Besides standardized the research protocol by evidence-based medicine, it should be a very important research direction.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effects of fluid shear stress on Wnt/β-catenin signal transduction pathway in fibroblasts
    Tang Yuan, Xia Ya-yi
    2011, 15 (41):  7759-7762.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.040
    Abstract ( 313 )   PDF (527KB) ( 296 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Mechanical stimulation exerts an important role in effects of Wnt/β-catenin signal transduction pathway on differentiation, proliferation and apoptosis of fibroblasts.
    OBJECTIVE: To explore the role of fluid shear stress in promoting bone formation and fracture healing influenced by Wnt/β-catenin signal transduction pathway.
    METHODS: A computer-based retrieval was performed in CNKI and PubMed database to search the manuscripts regarding fluid shear stress published between January 1990 and December 2009
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: 43 papers were included in the final analysis. Mechanically stimulating Wnt/β-catenin signal transduction pathway can increase the sensitivity to bone formation of LRP5 G171V mouse cells and increase bone mass and bone density. The in vivo and in vitro mechanical loading results support that Wnt/β-catenin signaling is a normal physiological response to load and that activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway enhances the sensitivity of osteoblasts/osteocytes to mechanical loading.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Relationship between proteomic changes and traditional Chinese medicine syndrome type of lumbar intervertebral disc protrusion
    Xu Jian-wen, Hu Bing, Yin Li-jun
    2011, 15 (41):  7763-7766.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.041
    Abstract ( 256 )   PDF (699KB) ( 420 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: It is reported in lots of literature that integrated traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine therapy has better effect on lumbar intervertebral disc protrusion, however, the etiology and pathogenesis of the disease remains elusive.
    OBJECTIVE: Although some domestic and foreign scholars have carried out preliminary researches on the proteomics features of syndrome types in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the proteomics of syndrome type of lumbar intervertebral disc has not been reported so far.
    METHODS: A literature search was performed in Wanfang data, Tshinghua and Medline databases for the relevant research articles published from January 2001 to November 2010 using “syndrome type, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), protcomics, lumbar intervertebral disk protrusion” in Chinese and English. Inclusion criteria: (1) papers on serum protcomics of lumbar intervertebral disc protrusion. (2) Papers on association of proteomics, the syndrome types and TCM. Exclusive criteria: papers with repetitive contents and meta analysis.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: 27 research articles that met the inclusive criteria were selected out of 361 research articles (79 in Chinese, 282 in English) by excluding the irrelevant papers according to their titles and abstracts. We conclude that the TCM syndrome types of some diseases relate to serum proteomics and the expression of some specific marker proteins may be associated with disc degeneration. Although the association between lumbar intervertebral disk protrusion and some syndrome types (blood stasis syndrome, damp-heat syndrome and cold-damp syndrome) has been validated by some experiments and clinical practice, there is still a lack of research on the relationship between proteomics and lumbar intervertebral disk protrusion.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Tissue engineering of post-burn denatured dermal matrix and clinical salvage 
    Wang Xiao-chuan, Jiang Du-yin
    2011, 15 (41):  7767-7770.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.042
    Abstract ( 221 )   PDF (749KB) ( 489 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: The dermal substitute used in composite grafting for deep burn patients can reduce the injury of donor site and improve the utilization of autologous skin and the effect of transplantation. But the treatment costs high and biological activity is limited. It is a pity that the denatured dermis which was discarded after escharectomy can not be recycled.
    OBJECTIVE: Through the basic research and clinical application of denatured dermis (matrix), we studied the feasibility of denatured dermal matrix (DDM) reconstruction by tissue engineering and clinical salvage.
    METHODS: A computer-based online search was performed for documents on CNKI, PubMed and Medline database from 1970 to 2011. Repetitive papers were excluded.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The satisfactory effect was obtained for recovery of deep burn with the preservation of denatured dermis in the clinic; these results indicate that DDM is not an obstacle to the clinical recycling. The related basic researches show that dermis extracellular matrix contains functional matricryptic peptides and DDM (degradation) is the good substrate of cell protein kinase, which possesses cell chemotactic activity. If the denatured dermal matrix reconstituted in vitro is used successfully, it will help relieve the lack of autologous skin greatly, improve the effect of composite skin transplantation and reduce medical costs.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Research prospect of biomechanics of human loading gait
    Song Li-hua, Chen Min-sheng
    2011, 15 (41):  7771-7774.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.043
    Abstract ( 297 )   PDF (542KB) ( 696 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: If human back takes too heavy objects for long time, a series of injury problems would occur. At present, there have been few studies describing the biomechanics of human loading gait.
    OBJECTIVE: To review the gait parameter changes, reaction force changes, pressure sensors and EMG applications in human loading gait.
    METHODS: A computer-based retrieval was performed by the first author using the key words "gait, load carriage, backpack" to search the manuscripts published between 2005-2010 describing "weight loading, walking and packpack" in Chinese and English. 
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: The current studies regarding loading walking are concluded as follows: all indicators are relatively simple and comprehensive studies are not enough. There are more studies regarding young people and children and there are few studies regarding soldiers who bear loads in marching. There are more studies regarding weight-bearing waling gait, backpack commercial test, and there are few studies describing the biomechanical mechanism of loading-caused injury as well foot pressure change and biomechanical test of shoes. Some studies have conflicting conclusions, resulting in unclear mechanism underlying effects of loading gait on human gait.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Relationship between muscular atrophy and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1 alpha
    Yang Shu, Wen Ye
    2011, 15 (41):  7775-7778.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.044
    Abstract ( 281 )   PDF (670KB) ( 297 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator 1 alpha (PGC-1α) can regulate numerous skeletal muscle functions including mitochondrial biogenesis, substrate oxidation, and muscle fibre type. Recently, PGC-1α has been found to prevent against muscular atrophy.
    OBJECTIVE: To summarize and discuss the relationship between PGC-1α and muscular atrophy.
    METHODS: A computer-based online retrieval of CNKI and Medline databases was performed by the first author to search  papers published between 2000 and 2010 using the key words “muscle atrophy, PGC-1α, exercise” in Chinese or English. A total of 56 papers were retrieved. According to inclusion and exclusion criteria, 22 papers were included in the final analysis. These papers were summarized from PGC-1α and muscular atrophy, and exercise and PGC-1α.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Enhanced PGC-1α expression can enhance mitochondrial function and human sport ability, reduce oxidative stress and inhibit the expression of muscular atrophy specific gene. Therefore, exercise may inhibit muscular atrophy by regulating PGC-1α expression.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Effectiveness of epidermal growth factor for treating deep second-degree burns in China: A Meta analysis
    Zhang Xian-fa, Liang Zi-qian, Zong Shou-kai, Zhao Xue-kai
    2011, 15 (41):  7779-7782.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.045
    Abstract ( 332 )   PDF (627KB) ( 425 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is widely used in the treatment of burn wound, and many articles have confirmed the effectiveness of EGF treatment. However, the deficient number of cases impacts the credibility of the articles.
    OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of EGF for treating deep second-degree burns in China.
    METHODS: We searched CMB (1979 to 2010), Wanfang Data (1982 to 2011), VIP (1989 to 2010) and CNKI (1979 to 2010). All searches were updated on January 15, 2007. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of EGF for deep second-degree burns were collected. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated, and data analyses were performed using the Cochrane Collaboration’s software RevMan 5.0.
    RESUITS AND CONCLUSION: A total of 10 RCTs involving 536 deep second-degree burns patients were included. A descriptive analysis of the results was presented: The wound healing time in the EGF treatment group was less than the control group (P < 0.000 01). The wound healing rate between EGF treatment and control groups were significantly different by the second and third weeks, the results were (P=0.000 2, P=0.01). Compared with the control group, the scar proliferation index was significantly lower (P < 0.000 01). But in relieving the pain, there was no statistical difference between the two groups (P=0.16). Results showed that according to the domestic evidence, treatment for second-degree burns with EGF can improve the wound healing rate and lower the scar proliferation index. However, the effectiveness for relieving pains is not obvious.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Serum levels of matrix metalloproteinase-3 and osteoprontin during bone metabolism in Chinese postmenopausal women
    Zhang Han-qing, Dai Yi, Li Hao, Guo Zhang-qiang, Yin Tao, Wang Du
    2011, 15 (41):  7783-7786.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.046
    Abstract ( 248 )   PDF (607KB) ( 295 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Osteopontin (OPN) has a great affinity for matrix metalloproteinase groups-3 (MMP-3). The expression of OPN and MMP-3 may play an important role in bone metabolism.
    OBJECTIVE: To study the serum MMP-3 and OPN levels and the correlations of MMP-3 and OPN with bone metabolic markers and osteoprotegrin and its ligand in aged postmenopausal Chinese women.
    METHODS: A total of 120 postmenopausal Chinese female volunteers were divided into three groups: normal bone mineral density, low bone mineral density, and osteoporosis. Serum levels of MMP-3, OPN, osteoprotegrin (OPG), osteoprotegrin ligand (OPGL), bone alkaline phosphate (BAP), osteocalcin, bone cross-linked N-telopeptides of typeⅠcollagen (NTx) and bone cross-linked C-telopeptides of typeⅠcollagen (CTx) were determined. The ratio of OPN to MMP-3 was also determined.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Serum levels of OPN and MMP-3 were significantly higher in the osteoporosis group than in the normal bone mineral density group (P < 0.05). Serum levels of MMP-3 and OPN and OPN/MMP-3 were significantly negatively correlated with OPGL, BAP, and osteocalcin levels, but they were significantly positively correlated with OPG and the ratio of NTx to CTx (P < 0.05) in postmenopausal women. In the osteoporosis group, MMP-3, OPN, and the ratio of OPN to MMP-3 were significantly negatively correlated with OPGL, BAP and osteocalcin levels (P < 0.05), and they were significantly positively correlated with OPG and the ratio of NTx to CTx (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that the increases in serum level of OPN and ratio of OPN to MMP-3 appear possibly as a concomitant event in high bone turnover state, such as postmenopausal osteoporosis.

    Related Articles | Metrics
    Heat shock protein 70 mRNA expression in peripheral white blood cells after Taiji-quan exercise
    Yang De-hong, Wei Yong
    2011, 15 (41):  7787-7790.  doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1673-8225.2011.41.047
    Abstract ( 258 )   PDF (574KB) ( 339 )   Save

    BACKGROUND: Several studies have demonstrated that Taiji-quan exercise is promosing to improve organism’s immune function and then postpone aging, but the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood.
    OBJECTIVE: To investigate the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) expression in peripheral white blood cells after Taiji-quan exercise.
    METHODS: The HSP70 mRNA expression was detected by real-time quantitative PCR in peripheral white blood cells of healthy middle-aged and elderly women before, 3 and 6 months after Taiji-Quan exercise.
    RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: After 3 months of intensive Taiji-Quan exercise, HSP70 mRNA expression was slightly, but not significantly, increased, compared with before Taiji-Quan exercise. After 6 months of Taiji-Quan exercise, HSP70 mRNA expression was significantly decreased, compared with before exercise and after 3 months of Taiji-Quan exercise. These results suggest that HSP70 mRNA expression can reflect the health benefits of 48-style Taiji-Quan exercise in middle-aged and elderly women and HSP 70 may be the potentioal molecular biological mechanism.

    Related Articles | Metrics