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Author Report for: Wang G

Title: Sublethal Effects of Thiamethoxam on Biological Traits and Detoxification Enzyme Activities in the Small Brown Planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus (Falln)
Cai Y, Dou T, Gao F, Wang G, Dong Y, Song N, An S, Yin X, Liu X, Ren Y
Ref: J Econ Entomol, :, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Cai_2022_J.Econ.Entomol__
PubMedSearch: Cai 2022 J.Econ.Entomol
PubMedID: 36351784

Abstract

The small brown planthopper (Laodelphax striatellus (Falln), Hemiptera: Delphacidae), is an important agricultural pest of rice, and neonicotinoid insecticides are commonly used for controlling L. striatellus. However, the sublethal effects of thiamethoxam on L. striatellus remain relatively unknown. In this study, an age-stage life table procedure was used to evaluate the sublethal effects of thiamethoxam on the biological parameters of L. striatellus. Additionally, activities of carboxylesterase, glutathione S-transferase, and cytochrome P450 monooxygenase in the third instar nymphs were analyzed. The results indicated that the survival time of F0 adults and the fecundity of female adults decreased significantly after the third instar nymphs were treated with sublethal concentrations of thiamethoxam (LC15 0.428 mg/liter and LC30 0.820 mg/liter). The developmental duration, adult preoviposition period, total preoviposition period, and mean generation time of the F1 generation increased significantly, whereas the fecundity of the female adults, intrinsic rate of increase (ri), and finite rate of increase (Lambda) decreased significantly. The oviposition period was significantly shorter for the insects treated with LC30 than for the control insects. Neither sublethal concentrations had significant effects on the adult longevity, net reproduction rate (R0), or gross reproduction rate (GRR) of the F1 generation. The activities of carboxylesterase, glutathione-S-transferase, and cytochrome P450 monooxygenase increased significantly after the thiamethoxam treatments. These results indicate that sublethal concentrations of thiamethoxam can inhibit L. striatellus population growth and enhance detoxification enzyme activities.



        

Title: Similarities and differences among the responses to three chlorinated organophosphate esters in earthworm: Evidences from biomarkers, transcriptomics and metabolomics
Gao Y, Wang L, Zhang X, Shi C, Ma L, Wang G
Ref: Sci Total Environ, 815:152853, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Gao_2022_Sci.Total.Environ_815_152853
PubMedSearch: Gao 2022 Sci.Total.Environ 815 152853
PubMedID: 34998776

Abstract

The wide use of chlorinated organophosphate esters (Cl-OPEs) as additive flame retardants has aroused concern about their potential risks on ecosystem and human health. However, knowledge about the toxicity of Cl-OPEs on soil organisms remains limited. In this study, earthworms, Eisenia fetida, were exposed to three representative Cl-OPEs, i.e., tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), tris(2-chloro-1-methylethyl) phosphate (TCPP), and tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCPP) in artificial soil. Using a combination of biochemical indicators (biomarkers), transcriptomics, and metabolomics, we compared the Cl-OPE-induced toxicity to E. fetida and provide new insight into the related molecular mechanism. All three Cl-OPEs elicited immune defense by the earthworms, as evidenced by increased acid phosphatase and alkaline phosphatase activities, and the genes involved in immune-related pathways (e.g., lysosomal and interleukin-17 signaling pathways). Furthermore, no effects on acetylcholinesterase activity were observed among the three Cl-OPEs. However, the TCPP and TDCPP treatments significantly decreased the neurotransmitter serotonin, suggesting the potential neurotoxicity of Cl-OPEs. Although TCEP affected the genes involved in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, the changes in the corresponding metabolites were not statistically significant. In contrast, exposure to TCPP and TDCPP induced oxidative stress, and affected xenobiotic metabolism and energy metabolism, leading to the decreased body weight in E. fetida. Based on these toxic effects, TCPP and TDCPP were more severely toxic than TCEP, despite their structural similarity. Given that the use of TCEP has been tightly regulated, our results suggest the potentially toxic effects of TCPP and TDCPP should not be ignored in future risk assessments of flame retardants.



        

Title: Risk factors for hospital-acquired pneumonia among inpatients with mental disorders in a large mental health center within a tertiary general hospital
Han J, Lv Z, Shen M, Wan Q, Xiao L, Wang G
Ref: Am J Infect Control, :, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Han_2022_Am.J.Infect.Control__
PubMedSearch: Han 2022 Am.J.Infect.Control
PubMedID: 35728721

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Few researchers have investigated the incidence of and risk factors for hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) among inpatients with mental disorders in a general hospital. METHODS: This study included patients with mental disorders hospitalized in a large mental health center (situated in a general hospital) between January 1, 2017 and July 31, 2021 (excluding January 1, 2020 to May 31, 2020). Risk factors for HAP were identified by logistic regression analysis after propensity score matching (PSM, 1:4) for gender, age, duration of observation and hospital ward. RESULTS: The study included 16,864 patients. HAP incidence rate was 1.15% overall, 2.11% on closed wards, 0.75% on open wards, 4.45% in patients with organic mental disorders, 1.80% in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder, and 0.84% in patients with mood disorders. Risk factors for HAP after PSM were hypoproteinemia, chronic liver disease, use of clozapine, hospitalization during the previous 180 days, body mass index (BMI) >=18.5 kg/m(2), cholinesterase inhibitor use and mood stabilizer use. CONCLUSION: HAP was common among inpatients with mental disorders. Risk factors for HAP in patients with mental disorders include hypoproteinemia, chronic liver disease, hospitalization during the past 180 days, BMI >=18.5 kg/m(2), and use of clozapine, cholinesterase inhibitors or mood stabilizers.



        

Title: The Comparative Analysis of Genomic Diversity and Genes Involved in Carbohydrate Metabolism of Eighty-Eight Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum Isolates from Different Niches of China
Lin G, Liu Q, Wang L, Li H, Zhao J, Zhang H, Wang G, Chen W
Ref: Nutrients, 14:, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Lin_2022_Nutrients_14_
PubMedSearch: Lin 2022 Nutrients 14
PubMedID: 35684146

Abstract

Eighty-eight Bifidobacterium pseudocatenulatum strains, which were isolated from human, chicken and cow fecal samples from different niches of China, were compared genomically in this study to evaluate their diversity. It was found that B. pseudocatenulatum displayed a closed pan-genome, including abundant glycoside hydrolase families of the carbohydrate active enzyme (CAZy). A total of 30 kinds of glycoside hydrolases (GHs), 14 kinds of glycosyl transferases (GTs), 13 kinds of carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs), 6 kinds of carbohydrate-esterases (CEs), and 2 kinds of auxiliary activities (AAs) gene families were identified across the genomes of the 88 B. pseudocatenulatum strains. Specifically, this showed that significant differences were also present in the number of 10 carbohydrate-active enzyme gene families (GT51, GH13_32, GH26, GH42, GH121, GH3, AA3, CBM46, CE2, and CE6) among the strains derived from the hosts of different age groups, particularly between strains from infants and those from other human age groups. Twelve different individuals of B. pseudocatenulatum from four main clusters were selected for further study to reveal the genetic diversity of carbohydrate metabolism-related genes within the same phylogenetics. The animal experiment showed that 3 weeks of oral administration and 1 week after cessation of administration of these strains did not markedly alter the serum routine inflammatory indicators in mice. Furthermore, the administration of these strains did not significantly cause adverse changes in the gut microbiota, as indicated by the alpha- and beta-diversity indexes, relative to the control group (normal diet). Beyond that, FAHBZ9L5 significantly increased the abundance of B. pseudocatenulatum after 3 weeks and significantly increased the abundance of acetic acid and butyric acid in the host's intestinal tract 3 and 4 weeks after the first administration, respectively, compared with the control group. Corresponding to this, comparative genomic analyses of 12 B. pseudocatenulatum suggest that FAHBZ9L5-specific genes were rich in ABC transporters and carbohydrate esterase. Combining the results of comparative genomics analyses and animal experiment, it is suggested that the strains containing certain gene clusters contribute to another competitive growth advantage of B. pseudocatenulatum, which facilitates its intestinal carbohydrate metabolism in a host.



        

Title: Role of Natural Compounds and Target Enzymes in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease
Wang S, Kong X, Chen Z, Wang G, Zhang J, Wang J
Ref: Molecules, 27:, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2022_Molecules_27_
PubMedSearch: Wang 2022 Molecules 27
PubMedID: 35807418

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological condition. The rising prevalence of AD necessitates the rapid development of efficient therapy options. Despite substantial study, only a few medications are capable of delaying the disease. Several substances with pharmacological activity, derived from plants, have been shown to have positive benefits for the treatment of AD by targeting various enzymes, such as acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE), beta-secretase, gamma-secretase, and monoamine oxidases (MAOs), which are discussed as potential targets. Medicinal plants have already contributed a number of lead molecules to medicine development, with many of them currently undergoing clinical trials. A variety of medicinal plants have been shown to diminish the degenerative symptoms associated with AD, either in their raw form or as isolated compounds. The aim of this review was to provide a brief summary of AD and its current therapies, followed by a discussion of the natural compounds examined as therapeutic agents and the processes underlying the positive effects, particularly the management of AD.



        

Title: Hydrolysis Mechanism of Carbamate Methomyl by a Novel Esterase PestE: A QM/MM Approach
Wang Z, Zhang Q, Wang G, Wang W, Wang Q
Ref: Int J Mol Sci, 24:, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2022_Int.J.Mol.Sci_24_
PubMedSearch: Wang 2022 Int.J.Mol.Sci 24
PubMedID: 36613879

Abstract

Methomyl is one of the most important carbamates that has caused potential hazardous effects on both human beings and the environment. Here, we systematically investigated the hydrolysis mechanism of methomyl catalyzed by esterase PestE using molecular dynamics simulations (MD) and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations. The hydrolysis mechanism involves two elementary steps: () serine-initiated nucleophilic attack and () C-O bond cleavage. Our work elicits the atomic level details of the hydrolysis mechanism and free energy profiles along the reaction pathway. The Boltzmann-weighted average potential barriers are 19.1 kcal/mol and 7.5 kcal/mol for steps and , respectively. We identified serine-initiated nucleophilic attack as the rate determining-step. The deep learning-based k(cat) prediction model indicated that the barrier of the rate-determining step is 15.4 kcal/mol, which is in good agreement with the calculated results using Boltzmann-weighted average method. We have elucidated the importance of the protein-substrate interactions and the roles of the key active site residues during the hydrolysis process through noncovalent interactions analysis and electrostatic potential (ESP) analysis. The results provide practical value for achieving efficient degradation of carbamates by hydrolases.



        

Title: Non-classical digestive lipase BmTGL selected by gene amplification reduces the effects of mulberry inhibitor during silkworm domestication
Wen F, Wang J, Shang D, Yan H, Yuan X, Wang Y, Xia Q, Wang G
Ref: Int J Biol Macromol, :, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wen_2022_Int.J.Biol.Macromol__
PubMedSearch: Wen 2022 Int.J.Biol.Macromol
PubMedID: 36587639

Abstract

Efficient utilization of dietary lipids is crucial for Bombyx mori, also known as domesticated silkworms. However, the effects of domestication on the genes encoding lipases remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the expression difference of one triacylglycerol lipase (BmTGL) between B.mori and wild (ancestor) silkworm strains (Bombyx mandarina). An immunofluorescence localization analysis showed that BmTGL was present in all parts of the gut and was released into the intestinal lumen. BmTGL expression was significantly enhanced in different domesticated silkworm strains compared to that in the B. mandarina strains. The genomes of the domesticated silkworm strains harbored 2-to-3-fold higher BmTGL copy numbers than those in the B. mandarina strains and accounted for the enhanced expression of BmTGL in the domesticated silkworm strains. The Ser144Asn substitution in the Ser-Asp-His catalytic triads of BmTGL resulted in relatively lower lipase activity and reduced sensitivity to the lipase inhibitor morachalcone A. Moreover, BmTGL overexpression significantly increased the weights of the B. mori silkworms compared to those of the non-transgenic controls. Thus, the selection of BmTGL by gene amplification may be a trade-off between maintaining high enzymatic activity and reducing the effects of mulberry inhibitors during silkworm domestication.



        

Title: Microplastics exposure as an emerging threat to ancient lineage: A contaminant of concern for abnormal bending of amphioxus via neurotoxicity
Xiang K, He Z, Fu J, Wang G, Li H, Zhang Y, Zhang S, Chen L
Ref: J Hazard Mater, 438:129454, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Xiang_2022_J.Hazard.Mater_438_129454
PubMedSearch: Xiang 2022 J.Hazard.Mater 438 129454
PubMedID: 35803186

Abstract

Growing inputs of microplastics into marine sediment have increased significantly the needs for assessment of their potential risks to the marine benthos. A knowledge gap remains with regard to the effect of microplastics on benthos, such as cephalochordates. By employing amphioxus as a model benthic chordate, here we show that exposure to microplastics for 96 h at doses of 1 mg/L and 100 mg/L results in evident accumulation of the polyethylene microplastics. The accumulated microplastics are as much as 0.027% of body weight upon high-dose exposure, causing an abnormal body-bending phenotype that limits the locomotion capability of amphioxus. Mechanistic insight reveals that microplastics can bring about histological damages in gill, intestine and hepatic cecum; In-depth assay of relevant biomarkers including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, pyruvic acid and total cholesterol indicates the occurrence of oxidative damage and metabolic disorder; Further, microplastics exposure depresses the activity of acetylcholinesterase while allowing the level of acetylcholine to rise in muscle, suggesting the emergence of neurotoxicity. These consequences eventually contribute to the muscle dysfunction of amphioxus. This study rationalizes the abnormal response of the vulnerable notochord to microplastics, signifying the dilemma suffered by the ancient lineage under the emerging threat. Given the enrichment of microplastics through marine food chains, this study also raises significant concerns on the impact of microplastics to other marine organisms, and eventually human beings.



        

Title: Rapid screening for acetylcholinesterase inhibitors in Selaginella doederleinii Hieron by using functionalized magnetic Fe(3)O(4) nanoparticles
Zhang F, Li S, Liu C, Fang K, Jiang Y, Zhang J, Lan J, Zhu L, Pang H, Wang G
Ref: Talanta, 243:123284, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zhang_2022_Talanta_243_123284
PubMedSearch: Zhang 2022 Talanta 243 123284
PubMedID: 35255433

Abstract

Insufficient acetylcholine (ACh) can cause cognitive and memory dysfunction, clinically known as, Alzheimer's disease (AD). Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) can hydrolyze ACh into acetic acid and inactivate choline. Therefore, inhibiting the activity of AChE would help to improve the effectiveness of AD treatment. Currently, the methods for rapid screening of AChE inhibitors are limited. This study reports the application of AChE-immobilized magnetic nanoparticles as a drug screening tool to screen AChE inhibitors for natural products. First, AChE was immobilized on a surface of amino-modified magnetic nanoparticles using covalent binding and the AChE concentration, and the pH as well as time was optimized to obtain the maximum enzyme immobilization yield (61.4 microg/mg), and the kinetic model indicated that AChE-immobilized magnetic nanoparticles and the substrate had the high affinity and specificity. Then, a ligand fishing experiment was carried out using a mixed model of tacrine (an inhibitor of AChE) and caffeic acid (a non-inhibitor of AChE) to verify the specificity of the immobilized AChE, and the conditions for ligand fishing were further optimized. Finally, the optimized immobilized AChE was combined with UPLC-MS to screen for AChE inhibitors in Selaginella doederleinii Hieron extracts. Four compounds were confirmed to be potent AChE inhibitors. Among the four compounds, amentoflavone had a stronger AChE inhibitory effect than tacrine (positive control) with an IC(50) of 0.73 +/- 0.009 micromol/L. The results showed that AChE-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles can be used in the discovery of target drugs from complex matrices.



        

Title: Development of a Highly Efficient Long-Acting Cocaine Hydrolase Entity to Accelerate Cocaine Metabolism
Zheng F, Jin Z, Deng J, Chen X, Zheng X, Wang G, Kim K, Shang L, Zhou Z, Zhan CG
Ref: Bioconjug Chem, :, 2022 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zheng_2022_Bioconjug.Chem__
PubMedSearch: Zheng 2022 Bioconjug.Chem
PubMedID: 35767675

Abstract

It is particularly challenging to develop a truly effective pharmacotherapy for cocaine use disorder (CUD) treatment. Accelerating cocaine metabolism via hydrolysis at cocaine benzoyl ester using an efficient cocaine hydrolase (CocH) is known as a promising pharmacotherapeutic approach to CUD treatment. Preclinical and clinical studies on our first CocH (CocH1), in its human serum albumin-fused form known as TV-1380, have demonstrated the promise of a general concept of CocH-based pharmacotherapy for CUD treatment. However, the biological half-life of TV-1380 (t(1/2) = 8 h in rats, associated with t(1/2) = 43-77 h in humans) is not long enough for practical treatment of cocaine dependence, which requires enzyme injection for no more than once weekly. Through protein fusion of a human butyrylcholinesterase mutant (denoted as CocH5) with a mutant (denoted as Fc(M6)) of Fc from human IgG1, we have designed, prepared, and tested a new fusion protein (denoted as CocH5-Fc(M6)) for its pharmacokinetic profile and in vivo catalytic activity against (-)-cocaine. CocH5-Fc(M6) represents the currently most efficient long-acting cocaine hydrolase with both the highest catalytic activity against (-)-cocaine and the longest elimination half-life (t(1/2) = 229 +/- 5 h) in rats. As a result, even at a single modest dose of 3 mg/kg, CocH5-Fc(M6) can significantly and effectively accelerate the metabolism of cocaine in rats for at least 60 days. In addition, -70 nM CocH5-Fc(M6) in plasma was able to completely block the toxicity and physiological effects induced by intraperitoneal injection of a lethal dose of cocaine (60 mg/kg).



        

Title: A Polyketide Cyclase That Forms Medium-Ring Lactones
Gao DW, Jamieson CS, Wang G, Yan Y, Zhou J, Houk KN, Tang Y
Ref: Journal of the American Chemical Society, 143:80, 2021 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Gao_2021_J.Am.Chem.Soc_143_80
PubMedSearch: Gao 2021 J.Am.Chem.Soc 143 80
PubMedID: 33351624
Gene_locus related to this paper: beab2-j4wat9

Abstract

Medium-ring lactones are synthetically challenging due to unfavorable energetics involved in cyclization. We have discovered a thioesterase enzyme DcsB, from the decarestrictine C1 (1) biosynthetic pathway, that efficiently performs medium-ring lactonizations. DcsB shows broad substrate promiscuity toward linear substrates that vary in lengths and substituents, and is a potential biocatalyst for lactonization. X-ray crystal structure and computational analyses provide insights into the molecular basis of catalysis.



        

Title: Developmental neurotoxicity of antimony (Sb) in the early life stages of zebrafish
Xia S, Zhu X, Yan Y, Zhang T, Chen G, Lei D, Wang G
Ref: Ecotoxicology & Environmental Safety, 218:112308, 2021 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Xia_2021_Ecotoxicol.Environ.Saf_218_112308
PubMedSearch: Xia 2021 Ecotoxicol.Environ.Saf 218 112308
PubMedID: 33975224

Abstract

Accumulating studies have revealed the toxicity of antimony (Sb) to soil-dwelling and aquatic organisms at the individual level. However, little is known about the neurotoxic effects of antimony and its underlying mechanisms. To assess this issue, we investigated the neurotoxicity of antimony (0, 200, 400, 600 and 800 mg/L) in zebrafish embryos. After exposure, zebrafish embryos showed abnormal phenotypes such as a shortened body length, morphological malformations, and weakened heart function. Behavioral experiments indicated that antimony caused neurotoxicity in zebrafish embryos, manifested in a decreased spontaneous movement frequency, delayed response to touch, and reduced movement distance. We also showed that antimony caused a decrease in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) levels in zebrafish embryos, along with decreased expression of neurofunctional markers such as gfap, nestin, mbp, and shha. Additionally, antimony significantly increased reactive oxygen species levels and significantly reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. In summary, our findings indicated that antimony can induce developmental toxicity and neurotoxicity in zebrash embryos by affecting neurotransmitter systems and oxidative stress, thus altering behavior. These outcomes will advance our understanding of antimony-induced neurotoxicity, environmental problems, and health hazards.



        

Title: Nos2 deficiency enhances carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in aged mice
Li D, Song Y, Wang Y, Guo Y, Zhang Z, Yang G, Wang G, Xu C
Ref: Iran J Basic Med Sci, 23:600, 2020 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Li_2020_Iran.J.Basic.Med.Sci_23_600
PubMedSearch: Li 2020 Iran.J.Basic.Med.Sci 23 600
PubMedID: 32742597

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: As a multifunctional molecule, NO has different effects on liver injury. The present work aimed to investigate the effects of Nos2 knockout (KO) on acute liver injury in aged mice treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4)). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The acute liver injury model was produced by CCl(4) at 10 ml/kg body weight in 24-month-old Nos2 KO mice and wild type (WT) mice groups. The histological changes, transaminase and glutathione (GSH) contents, and the expressions of liver function genes superoxide dismutase (SOD2) and butyrylcholinesterase (BCHE), as well as apoptosis- and inflammation-associated genes were detected at 0, 6, 16, 20, 28, and 48 hr, respectively. RESULTS: Compared with WT aged mice, there are more fat droplets in liver tissues of Nos2 KO aged mice, and the serum levels of ALT and AST were elevated in the KO group; in addition, there was a decrease in the expression of SOD2 and BCHE and GSH content at multiple time-points. Furthermore, the expression of apoptosis protein CASPASE-3 was elevated from 20 to 48 hr, the same as CASPASE-9 at 28 and 48 hr and pro-apoptotic protein BAX at 6 and 28 hr, while the expression of apoptosis inhibitory protein BCL2 declined at 6 and 28 hr; at the same time the mRNA expressions of genes related to inflammation were increased at different extents in liver extracts of Nos2 KO aged mice. CONCLUSION: Nos2 KO exacerbated liver injury probably by elevated oxidative stress, apoptosis and inammation response in CCl(4)-induced aged mice liver intoxication model.



        

Title: Dl-3-n-butylphthalide regulates cholinergic dysfunction in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion rats
Sun Y, Zhao Z, Li Q, Wang C, Ge X, Wang X, Wang G, Qin Y
Ref: J Internal Medicine Res, 48:300060520936177, 2020 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Sun_2020_J.Int.Med.Res_48_300060520936177
PubMedSearch: Sun 2020 J.Int.Med.Res 48 300060520936177
PubMedID: 32644834

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To investigate whether dl-3-n-butylphthalide (NBP) affects cholinergic system function and ameliorates cognitive decline in a rat model of vascular dementia (VaD). METHODS: The VaD rat model was established by bilateral common carotid artery ligation (two-vessel occlusion, 2VO). Rats were divided into five groups: control, sham, 2VO, 2VO+NBP (80 mg/kg; intragastric), and 2VO+donepezil (1 mg/kg; intragastric). Treatments were administered once daily for 2 weeks from day 21 post-surgery. Spatial learning and memory were evaluated by Morris water maze performance. Hippocampal choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), acetylcholinesterase (AChE), vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expressions were detected using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, and real-time polymerase chain reaction methods. RESULTS: The daily escape latency was significantly longer in 2VO rats than in the sham or control groups, while the time spent in the target quadrant was significantly shorter. The daily escape latency of the 2VO+NBP group was significantly shorter compared with the 2VO group. Following NBP treatment, ChAT, AChE, VAChT, and BDNF expressions were significantly upregulated in the hippocampus. CONCLUSIONS: Central cholinergic dysfunction may be involved in VaD pathogenesis. NBP treatment significantly improved spatial learning and memory in VaD rats, and may enhance cholinergic system function via BDNF-mediated neuroprotection.



        

Title: The degraded polysaccharide from Pyropia haitanensis represses amyloid beta peptide-induced neurotoxicity and memory in vivo
Zhang Z, Wang X, Pan Y, Wang G, Mao G
Ref: Int J Biol Macromol, 146:725, 2020 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zhang_2020_Int.J.Biol.Macromol_146_725
PubMedSearch: Zhang 2020 Int.J.Biol.Macromol 146 725
PubMedID: 31739053

Abstract

An antioxidant polysaccharide, porphyran, from red algae Pyropia haitanensis, is introduced as a protective agent against neurotoxicity-induced amyloid beta peptide (Abeta) of Alzheimer's disease (AD) mice. Then the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and choline acetyltransferase (CHAT) in the cortical and hippocampal tissue were examined by colorimetric method. Results showed that porphyran significantly ameliorated the learning and memory impairment induced by Abeta1-40. Biochemical analysis showed that porphyran increased ChAT activity and decreased AChE activity in the cortical and hippocampal tissue. The mechanism may be related with the increase of cerebral acetylcholine content. Porphyran has a potential of developing anti-aging drug.



        

Title: Peroxidase-like activity of acetylcholine-based colorimetric detection of acetylcholinesterase activity and an organophosphorus inhibitor
Han T, Wang G
Ref: J Mater Chem B, 7:2613, 2019 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Han_2019_J.Mater.Chem.B_7_2613
PubMedSearch: Han 2019 J.Mater.Chem.B 7 2613
PubMedID: 32254993

Abstract

Colorimetric detection of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and its inhibitor organophosphates (OPs) is attractive for its convenience, but the addition of exogenous catalyst to produce a chromogenic agent may result in complexity and interference. Herein, we first found that acetylcholine (ATCh) itself mimicked peroxidase's activity, based on which a simple and reliable colorimetric system containing ATCh- 3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB)-H2O2 was developed for the sensitive and selective assay of AChE activity and its inhibitor OPs. Due to the AChE-catalyzed hydrolysis of acetylcholine, the peroxidase-like activity was affected, which was used for highly sensitive detection of AChE activity with a low limit of detection (LOD) of 0.5 mU mL(-1) and a linear detection range from 2.0 to 14 mU mL(-1). Furthermore, due to the inhibition of OPs on AChE, OPs were also detected with the present ATCh regulated colorimetric system with LOD of 4.0 ng mL(-1) and a linear dynamic range from 10 to 10 000 microg L(-1). This strategy was also demonstrated to be applicable for pesticide detection in real samples. Meanwhile, the sensing platform can also be implemented on test strips for rapid and visual monitoring of OPs. Thus, this extremely simple colorimetric strategy without the addition of other exogenous catalysts holds great promise for on-site pesticide detection and can be further exploited for sensing applications in the environmental and food safety fields.



        

Title: Two transcription factors cooperatively regulate DHN melanin biosynthesis and development in Pestalotiopsis fici
Zhang P, Zhou S, Wang G, An Z, Liu X, Li K, Yin WB
Ref: Molecular Microbiology, 112:649, 2019 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zhang_2019_Mol.Microbiol_112_649
PubMedSearch: Zhang 2019 Mol.Microbiol 112 649
PubMedID: 31116900
Gene_locus related to this paper: pesfw-pfmab, pesfw-pfmae

Abstract

Fungal 1,8-dihydroxynaphthalene (DHN) melanin plays important roles in UV protection, oxidative stress and pathogenesis. However, knowledge of the regulatory mechanisms of its biosynthesis is limited. Previous studies showed two transcription factors, PfmaF and PfmaH, located in the DHN melanin biosynthetic gene cluster (Pfma) in Pestalotiopsis fici. In this study, deletion of PfmaH resulted in loss of melanin and affected conidia cell wall integrity. Specifically, PfmaH directly regulates the expression of scytalone dehydratase, which catalyzes the transition of scytalone to T(3) HN. However, PfmaF disruption using CRISPR/Cas9 system affected neither DHN melanin distribution nor conidia cell wall integrity in P. fici. Unexpectedly, overexpression of PfmaF leads to heavy pigment accumulation in P. fici hyphae. Transcriptome and qRT-PCR analyses provide insight into the roles of PfmaF and PfmaH in DHN melanin regulation. PfmaH, as a pathway specific regulator, mainly regulates melanin biosynthesis that contributes to cell wall development. Furthermore, PfmaF functions as a broad regulator to stimulate PfmaH expression in melanin production, secondary metabolism as well as fungal development.



        

Title: Role of sEH R287Q in LDLR expression, LDL binding to LDLR and LDL internalization in BEL-7402 cells
Tang L, Wang G, Jiang L, Chen P, Wang W, Chen J, Wang L
Ref: Gene, 667:95, 2018 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Tang_2018_Gene_667_95
PubMedSearch: Tang 2018 Gene 667 95
PubMedID: 29665449
Gene_locus related to this paper: human-EPHX2

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal dominant disorder of cholesterol metabolism. Three recognized genes (LDLR, APOB and PCSK9) present in only 20-30% of patients with possible FH cases. Additional FH-causing genes need to be explored. The present study found an isolated gene change, sEH R287Q, in a core family of FH. In this study, we aimed to investigate the roles of R287Q on sEH expression and on LDLR expression, LDL binding to LDLR and LDL internalization. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 167 lipid-related genes of a core FH family were sequenced using a gene-capture chip. Through carrier dependent protein expression, the expression level (western blot), hydrolase activity (fluorescent chemistry) and intracellular localization (immunofluorescence and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscope) of recombinant sEH R287Q in cultured BEL-7402 cells were conducted. The effect of wild type and R287Q of sEH on LDLR expression, LDL binding to LDLR and LDL internalization were also conducted through Flow Cytometry. RESULTS: sEH R287Q was the only gene changes among 167 lipid-related genes in the FH core family. Both expression level and hydrolase activity of recombinant sEH R287Q in cultured cells were significantly declined compared with that of the wild type sEH. sEH R287Q also decreased the binding of LDL to LDLR and LDL internalization and had no effect on cell-surface LDLR protein level. CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that sEH R287Q may have a role in the elevation of blood LDL in FH. The exactly role of sEH R287Q on FH deserves further study.



        

Title: Synthesis and characterization of biodegradable poly(ether-ester) urethane acrylates for controlled drug release
Feng X, Wang G, Neumann K, Yao W, Ding L, Li S, Sheng Y, Jiang Y, Bradley M, Zhang R
Ref: Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl, 74:270, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Feng_2017_Mater.Sci.Eng.C.Mater.Biol.Appl_74_270
PubMedSearch: Feng 2017 Mater.Sci.Eng.C.Mater.Biol.Appl 74 270
PubMedID: 28254295

Abstract

Three polyether-ester triblock diols, with various molecular weights, were synthesized from sigma-caprolactone and polyethylene glycol and used, with diisocyanates, as soft segments for the preparation of polyurethane acrylate oligomers. The polyurethane acrylates were used to generate cross-linked polyurethane films via UV initiated polymerization with and without cargo incorporation. Degradation experiment indicated that in PBS/H(2)O(2)/CoCl(2) the films degraded rapidly compared to PBS alone or with lipase. The polyurethane membrane loaded with the antibiotic tetracycline, demonstrated prolonged release over 200h, suggesting that the polymers could be used as an implant coating for controlled drug release.



        

Title: The dual DPP4 inhibitor and GPR119 agonist HBK001 regulates glycemic control and beta cell function ex and in vivo
Huan Y, Jiang Q, Li G, Bai G, Zhou T, Liu S, Li C, Liu Q, Sun S and Shen Z <7 more author(s)> Huan Y, Jiang Q, Li G, Bai G, Zhou T, Liu S, Li C, Liu Q, Sun S, Yang M, Guo N, Wang X, Wang S, Liu Y, Wang G, Huang H, Shen Z (- 7)
Ref: Sci Rep, 7:4351, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Huan_2017_Sci.Rep_7_4351
PubMedSearch: Huan 2017 Sci.Rep 7 4351
PubMedID: 28659588

Abstract

Glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) plays a vital role in glucose homeostasis and sustaining beta-cell function. Currently there are two major methods to enhance endogenous GLP-1 activity; inhibiting dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) or activating G protein-coupled receptor 119 (GPR119). Here we describe and validate a novel dual-target compound, HBK001, which can both inhibit DPP4 and activate GPR119 ex and in vivo. We show that HBK001 can promote glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in mouse and human primary islets. A single administration of HBK001 in ICR mice can increase plasma incretins levels much more efficiently than linagliptin, a classic DPP4 inhibitor. Long-term treatment of HBK001 in KKAy mice can ameliorate hyperglycemia as well as improve glucose tolerance, while linagliptin fails to achieve such glucose-lowing effects despite inhibiting 95% of serum DPP4 activity. Moreover, HBK001 can increase first-phase insulin secretion in KKAy mice, suggesting a direct effect on islet beta-cells via GPR119 activation. Furthermore, HBK001 can improve islet morphology, increase beta-cell proliferation and up-regulate genes involved in improved beta-cell function. Thus, we have identified, designed and synthesized a novel dual-target compound, HBK001, which represents a promising therapeutic candidate for type 2 diabetes, especially for patients who are insensitive to current DPP4 inhibitors.



        

Title: Biology, physiology and gene expression of grasshopper Oedaleus asiaticus exposed to diet stress from plant secondary compounds
Huang X, Ma J, Qin X, Tu X, Cao G, Wang G, Nong X, Zhang Z
Ref: Sci Rep, 7:8655, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Huang_2017_Sci.Rep_7_8655
PubMedSearch: Huang 2017 Sci.Rep 7 8655
PubMedID: 28819233

Abstract

We studied the role of plant primary and secondary metabolites in mediating plant-insect interactions by conducting a no-choice single-plant species field experiment to compare the suitability, enzyme activities, and gene expression of Oedaleus asiaticus grasshoppers feeding on four host and non-host plants with different chemical traits. O. asiaticus growth showed a positive relationship to food nutrition content and a negative relationship to secondary compounds content. Grasshopper amylase, chymotrypsin, and lipase activities were positively related to food starch, crude protein, and lipid content, respectively. Activity of cytochrome P450s, glutathione-S-transferase, and carboxylesterase were positively related to levels of secondary plant compounds. Gene expression of UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 2C1, cytochrome P450 6K1 were also positively related to secondary compounds content in the diet. Grasshoppers feeding on Artemisia frigida, a species with low nutrient content and a high level of secondary compounds, had reduced growth and digestive enzyme activity. They also had higher detoxification enzyme activity and gene expression compared to grasshoppers feeding on the grasses Cleistogenes squarrosa, Leymus chinensis, or Stipa krylovii. These results illustrated Oedaleus asiaticus adaptive responses to diet stress resulting from toxic chemicals, and support the hypothesis that nutritious food benefits insect growth, but plant secondary compounds are detrimental for insect growth.



        

Title: Application of hemoperfusion in severe acute organophosphorus pesticide poisoning
Li Z, Wang G, Zhen G, Zhang Y, Liu J, Liu S
Ref: Turk J Med Sci, 47:1277, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Li_2017_Turk.J.Med.Sci_47_1277
PubMedSearch: Li 2017 Turk.J.Med.Sci 47 1277
PubMedID: 29156874

Abstract

Background/aim: The aim of this research is to investigate the clinical efficacy of hemoperfusion in the treatment of severe acute organophosphorus pesticide poisoning (AOPP). Materials and methods: Patients meeting the inclusion criteria were divided into Groups 1 and 2 according to whether hemoperfusion was applied or not. Group 2 was observed as the control group. Conventional therapy for AOPP was given to Groups 1 and 2. Besides conventional treatment, patients in Group 1 were also treated with hemoperfusion therapy. Cholinesterase activity and blood glucose concentration were tested before hemoperfusion and for the first 3 days afterwards. The recovery time of 50% cholinesterase was recorded. At the same time, the incidence and mortality of intermediate syndrome was observed and compared. Results: The incidence and mortality of intermediate syndrome in Group 1 was obviously decreased, and the recovery time of cholinesterase activity was significantly shortened compared with Group 2. Conclusion: Hemoperfusion, used for treating severe AOPP, contributes to the improvement of cholinesterase activity, low incidence and mortality of intermediate syndrome, and increase in curative rate.



        

Title: Juvenile Hormone Epoxide Hydrolase: a Promising Target for Hemipteran Pest Management
Tusun A, Li M, Liang X, Yang T, Yang B, Wang G
Ref: Sci Rep, 7:789, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Tusun_2017_Sci.Rep_7_789
PubMedSearch: Tusun 2017 Sci.Rep 7 789
PubMedID: 28400585

Abstract

Juvenile hormone epoxide hydrolase (JHEH) has attracted great interest because of its critical role in the regulation of juvenile hormone (JH) in insects. In this study, one JHEH gene from Apolygus lucorum (AlucJHEH) was characterized in terms of deduced amino acid sequence, phylogeny, homology modeling and docking simulation. The results reveals a conserved catalytic mechanism of AlucJHEH toward JH. Our study also demonstrates that the mRNA of AlucJHEH gene was detectable in head, thorax and abdomen from all life stages. To functionally characterize the AlucJHEH gene, three fragments of double-stranded RNAs (dsRNAs) were designed to target different regions of the sequence. Injection of 3rd nymphs with dsRNA fragments successfully knocked down the target gene expression, and a significantly decreased survival rate was observed, together with a molting block, These findings confirm the important regulatory roles of AlucJHEH in A. lucorum and indicate this gene as a promising target for future hemipterans pest control.



        

Title: In vivo metabolism of organophosphate flame retardants and distribution of their main metabolites in adult zebrafish
Wang G, Chen H, Du Z, Li J, Wang Z, Gao S
Ref: Sci Total Environ, 590-591:50, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2017_Sci.Total.Environ_590-591_50
PubMedSearch: Wang 2017 Sci.Total.Environ 590-591 50
PubMedID: 28292737

Abstract

Understanding the metabolism of chemicals as well as the distribution and depuration of their main metabolites in tissues are essential for evaluating their fate and potential toxicity in vivo. Herein, we investigated the metabolism of six typical organophosphate (OP) flame retardants (tripropyl phosphate (TPRP), tri-n-butyl phosphate (TNBP), tris(2-butoxyethyl) phosphate (TBOEP), tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP), tris(1,3-dichloro-2-propyl) phosphate (TDCIPP) and tri-p-cresyl phosphate (p-TCP)) in adult zebrafish in laboratory at three levels (0, 1/150 LC50 (environmentally relevant level), and 1/30 LC50 per OP analog). Twenty main metabolites were detected in the liver of OPs-exposed zebrafish using high resolution mass spectrometry (Q-TOF). The reaction pathways involving scission of the ester bond (hydrolysis), cleavage of the ether bond, oxidative hydroxylation, dechlorination, and coupling with glucuronic acid were proposed, and were further confirmed by the frontier electron density and point charge calculations. Tissue distribution of the twenty metabolites revealed that liver and intestine with the highest levels of metabolites were the most active organs for OPs biotransformation among the studied tissues of intestine, liver, roe, brain, muscle, and gill, which showed the importance of hepatobiliary system (liver-bile-intestine) in the metabolism and excretion of OPs in zebrafish. Fast depuration of metabolites from tissues indicated that the formed metabolites might be not persistent in fish, and easily released into water. This study provides comprehensive information on the metabolism of OPs in the tissue of zebrafish, which might give some hints for the exploration of their toxic mechanism in aquatic life.



        

Title: Dynamic relationship between infantile hepatitis syndrome and cytomegalovirus infection
Wang G, Feng D
Ref: Exp Ther Med, 13:3443, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2017_Exp.Ther.Med_13_3443
PubMedSearch: Wang 2017 Exp.Ther.Med 13 3443
PubMedID: 28587424

Abstract

We investigated the correlation between cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and infantile hepatitis syndrome and the correlation between blood ammonia levels in children with CMV-induced hepatitis syndrome and liver function indicators. To analyze the relationship between the positive-negative attributes of CMV infection and the recurrence rate of infantile hepatitis syndrome, a total of 86 cases of children with hepatitis syndrome admitted to Xuzhou Children's Hospital from January 2014 to March 2015 were selected for the study group. Furthermore, 86 cases of healthy children who visited our hospital for a physical examination during the same period were selected as the control group. From the two groups, serum CMV-immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and urinary CMV-deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was ascertained by fluorescent ratio polymerase chain reaction. These levels were then compared between the two groups and analyzed. A fully automatic biochemical analyzer was utilized to evaluate the blood ammonia and liver function indicators of the children with infantile hepatitis syndrome induced by CMV infection and to analyze the correlation of these factors. A mean follow-up of 12 months after the children's discharge was adopted to observe the relationship between the negative-positive attributes of CMV infection and the recurrence rate in the children upon cure. The positive detection rate for the serum CMV-IgM was 24.4%, and that for the urinary CMV-DNA was 34.9%; both values were significantly higher than that for the control group (P<0.05). The blood ammonia levels of the children with infantile hepatitis syndrome induced by CMV infection were not correlated with the liver function indicators, such as total bilirubin, direct bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyltransferase, total bile acid, and cholinesterase (P>0.05), but they were negatively correlated with blood albumin (ALB) (P<0.05). The recurrence rate of hepatitis syndrome among the children with negative CMV infection was 3.8%, which was significantly lower than that among the children with positive CMV infection (62.5%, P<0.05). A significant correlation was found between CMV infection and infantile hepatitis syndrome, with the former being a risk factor for the latter. Changes in the conditions of infantile hepatitis syndrome may be reflected by blood ammonia and ALB indicators. Through improved monitoring, these indicators facilitate the early diagnosis and treatment of children with hepatitis syndrome induced by CMV infection. Sufficient attention should be paid to preventive measures to reduce the incidence rate of infantile hepatitis syndrome.



        

Title: Bioaccumulation mechanism of organophosphate esters in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Wang G, Shi H, Du Z, Chen H, Peng J, Gao S
Ref: Environ Pollut, 229:177, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2017_Environ.Pollut_229_177
PubMedSearch: Wang 2017 Environ.Pollut 229 177
PubMedID: 28599202

Abstract

Although organophosphate esters (OPEs) have been detected with growing frequency in water ecosystems, the underlying accumulation mechanisms of these compounds in fish are still unknown. Here, we investigated the tissue-specific accumulation and depuration of seven OPEs in adult zebrafish at three levels (0, 1/150 LC50 (environmentally relevant level), and 1/30 LC50 per OPE congener) in laboratory after 19 days exposure and 3 days depuration. The bioaccumulation of OPEs varied among tissues. Muscle contained the lowest level of OPEs and liver had the highest level of two (TPP and TCEP) of the seven OPEs at steady state. The high levels and slow depuration rates of TDCIPP, TPHP, and TCP observed in roe indicated that the accumulated OPEs were potentially stored in roe and transferred to the next generation. After examination of the major metabolites (organophosphate diesters) in selected tissues, a physiologically based toxicokinetic (PBTK) model used in fish was adopted to explore the key factors affecting the bioaccumulation of OPEs in zebrafish. Biotransformation of OPEs with polychlorinated alkyl moieties (i.e. TDCIPP) and aryl moieties (i.e. TPHP and TCP) has more significant impacts on the accumulation than those of OPEs with alkyl or short chain chlorinated alkyl moieties. Furthermore, the partition process between tissues and blood was also investigated, and was demonstrated to be the dominant process for OPEs accumulation in zebrafish. This study provides critical information on the bioaccumulation, tissue distribution, and metabolization of OPEs in relation with OPE structures in fish, as well as the underlying bioaccumulation mechanisms/pathways of OPEs in aquatic life.



        

Title: Esterase activity inspired selection and characterization of zearalenone degrading bacteria Bacillus pumilus ES-21
Wang G, Yu M, Dong F, Shi J, Xu J
Ref: Food Control, 77:57, 2017 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2017_Food.Control_77_57
PubMedSearch: Wang 2017 Food.Control 77 57

Abstract

Zearalenone (ZEN), mainly produced by Fusarium species, is an estrogenic mycotoxin which causes reproductive disorders in livestock. In this study, we described a simple and rapid method for screening of ZEN-degrading bacteria by esterase activity assay. Soil bacteria strains were first tested for their esterase activities, then active strains were further evaluated for their ZEN-degrading potentials. A bacterial strain named Bacillus pumilus ES-21 was detected to be able to eliminate ZEN in the culture medium. ZEN degradation conditions were optimized through response surface methodology and the result showed that the degradation rate of ZEN by Bacillus pumilus ES-21 was up to 95.7% at the ZEN concentration of 17.9 mug/ml within 24 h. One of the degradation product was proposed to be 1-(3,5-dihydroxyphenyl)-6'-hydroxy-l'-undecen-l0'-one according to LC-TOF-MS/MS analysis. This study provided a strategy for the isolation of ZEN degrading microbes and a promising degrading strain.



        

Title: Concomitant presentation of Anderson-Tawil syndrome and myasthenia gravis in an adult patient: A case report
Fan R, Ji R, Zou W, Wang G, Wang H, Penney DJ, Luo JJ, Fan Y
Ref: Exp Ther Med, 12:2435, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Fan_2016_Exp.Ther.Med_12_2435
PubMedSearch: Fan 2016 Exp.Ther.Med 12 2435
PubMedID: 27698745

Abstract

Andersen-Tawil syndrome (ATS) is an autosomal dominant, multisystem channelopathy characterized by periodic paralysis, ventricular arrhythmias and distinctive dysmorphic facial or skeletal features. The disorder displays marked intrafamilial variability and incomplete penetrance. Myasthenia gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disorder that demonstrates progressive fatigability, in which the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (AChR) at neuromuscular junctions is the primary autoantigen. The present study reports a rare case of a 31-year-old woman with a history of morbid obesity and periodic weakness, who presented with hemodynamic instability, cardiogenic shock and facial anomalies. Laboratory results revealed hypokalemia and an elevated anti-AChR antibody expression levels. Electrocardiography demonstrated prolonged QT-interval, ST-elevation, and subsequent third-degree atrioventricular block. Neurological examination revealed bilateral ptosis, horizontal diplopia, dysarthria and generalized weakness. No mutations in the potassium channel inwardly rectifying subfamily J member 2 gene were detected in the present case. The patient was treated with oral potassium supplementation and an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor (pyridostigmine), after which the symptoms were improved. To the best of our knowledge, the present case report was the first to describe concomitant presentation of both ATS and MG, which represents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.



        

Title: Biochemical basis of synergism between pathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae and insecticide chlorantraniliprole in Locusta migratoria (Meyen)
Jia M, Cao G, Li Y, Tu X, Wang G, Nong X, Whitman DW, Zhang Z
Ref: Sci Rep, 6:28424, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Jia_2016_Sci.Rep_6_28424
PubMedSearch: Jia 2016 Sci.Rep 6 28424
PubMedID: 27328936

Abstract

We challenged Locusta migratoria (Meyen) grasshoppers with simultaneous doses of both the insecticide chlorantraniliprole and the fungal pathogen, Metarhizium anisopliae. Our results showed synergistic and antagonistic effects on host mortality and enzyme activities. To elucidate the biochemical mechanisms that underlie detoxification and pathogen-immune responses in insects, we monitored the activities of 10 enzymes. After administration of insecticide and fungus, activities of glutathione-S-transferase (GST), general esterases (ESTs) and phenol oxidase (PO) decreased in the insect during the initial time period, whereas those of aryl acylamidase (AA) and chitinase (CHI) increased during the initial period and that of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) increased during a later time period. Activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and peroxidase (POD) decreased at a later time period post treatment. Interestingly, treatment with chlorantraniliprole and M. anisopliae relieved the convulsions that normally accompany M. anisopliae infection. We speculate that locust mortality increased as a result of synergism via a mechanism related to Ca(2+) disruption in the host. Our study illuminates the biochemical mechanisms involved in insect immunity to xenobiotics and pathogens as well as the mechanisms by which these factors disrupt host homeostasis and induce death. We expect this knowledge to lead to more effective pest control.



        

Title: Monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor JZL184 regulates apoptosis and migration of colorectal cancer cells
Ma M, Bai J, Ling Y, Chang W, Xie G, Li R, Wang G, Tao K
Ref: Mol Med Rep, 13:2850, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Ma_2016_Mol.Med.Rep_13_2850
PubMedSearch: Ma 2016 Mol.Med.Rep 13 2850
PubMedID: 26847687
Inhibitor(s) related to this paper: JZL184

Abstract

Monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) is involved in the degradation of triacylglycerol. Previous studies have demonstrated that MAGL regulates tumor growth and metastasis via fatty acid networks, and is associated with colorectal cancer. JZL184 is a MAGL inhibitor, which in the present study was administered to colorectal cancer cell lines, resulting in decreased tumor proliferation, increased apoptosis and increased tumor cell sensitivity to 5-fluorouracil. Bcell lymphoma 2 (Bcl2) and Bcl2associated X protein (Bax) are key proteins in apoptosis. The expression levels of Bcl2/Bax were determined in colorectal cancer cell lines following JZL184 administration, and it was observed that the mRNA and protein expression levels of Bcl2 were decreased, whereas the expression levels of Bax were increased. These results indicated that JZL184 may induce tumor cell apoptosis by regulating the expression of Bcl2 and Bax. Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is closely associated with metastasis. Administration of JZL184 in various malignant colorectal cancer cell lines suppressed migration and altered the expression of EMT markers; Ecadherin was increased, whereas the expression levels of vimentin and zinc finger protein SNAI1 were decreased. These results suggested that JZL184 was able to regulate the EMT process, in order to control the migration of colorectal cancer cells, particularly in tumors with a stronger metastatic capability. Therefore, in colorectal cancer, MAGL may be considered a potential therapeutic target and JZL184 may be a possible therapeutic agent.



        

Title: A novel cold-adapted and highly salt-tolerant esterase from Alkalibacterium sp. SL3 from the sediment of a soda lake
Wang G, Wang Q, Lin X, Ng TB, Yan R, Lin J, Ye X
Ref: Sci Rep, 6:19494, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2016_Sci.Rep_6_19494
PubMedSearch: Wang 2016 Sci.Rep 6 19494
PubMedID: 26915906

Abstract

A novel esterase gene (estSL3) was cloned from the Alkalibacterium sp. SL3, which was isolated from the sediment of soda lake Dabusu. The 636-bp full-length gene encodes a polypeptide of 211 amino acid residues that is closely related with putative GDSL family lipases from Alkalibacterium and Enterococcus. The gene was successfully expressed in E. coli, and the recombinant protein (rEstSL3) was purified to electrophoretic homogeneity and characterized. rEstSL3 exhibited the highest activity towards pNP-acetate and had no activity towards pNP-esters with acyl chains longer than C8. The enzyme was highly cold-adapted, showing an apparent temperature optimum of 30 degrees C and remaining approximately 70% of the activity at 0 degrees C. It was active and stable over the pH range from 7 to 10, and highly salt-tolerant up to 5 M NaCl. Moreover, rEstSL3 was strongly resistant to most tested metal ions, chemical reagents, detergents and organic solvents. Amino acid composition analysis indicated that EstSL3 had fewer proline residues, hydrogen bonds and salt bridges than mesophilic and thermophilic counterparts, but more acidic amino acids and less hydrophobic amino acids when compared with other salt-tolerant esterases. The cold active, salt-tolerant and chemical-resistant properties make it a promising enzyme for basic research and industrial applications.



        

Title: CES1 genetic variation affects the activation of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
Wang X, Wang G, Shi J, Aa JY, Comas R, Liang Y, Zhu HJ
Ref: Pharmacogenomics J, 16:220, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2016_Pharmacogenomics.J_16_220
PubMedSearch: Wang 2016 Pharmacogenomics.J 16 220
PubMedID: 26076923
Gene_locus related to this paper: human-CES1

Abstract

The aim of the study was to determine the effect of carboxylesterase 1 (CES1) genetic variation on the activation of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) prodrugs. In vitro incubation study of human liver, intestine and kidney s9 fractions demonstrated that the ACEI prodrugs enalapril, ramipril, perindopril, moexipril and fosinopril are selectively activated by CES1 in the liver. The impact of CES1/CES1VAR and CES1P1/CES1P1VAR genotypes and diplotypes on CES1 expression and activity on enalapril activation was investigated in 102 normal human liver samples. Neither the genotypes nor the diplotypes affected hepatic CES1 expression and activity. Moreover, among several CES1 nonsynonymous variants studied in transfected cell lines, the G143E (rs71647871) was a loss-of-function variant for the activation of all ACEIs tested. The CES1 activity on enalapril activation in human livers with the 143G/E genotype was approximately one-third of that carrying the 143G/G. Thus, some functional CES1 genetic variants (for example, G143E) may impair ACEI activation, and consequently affect therapeutic outcomes of ACEI prodrugs.



        

Title: Biosynthesis of Antibiotic Leucinostatins in Bio-control Fungus Purpureocillium lilacinum and Their Inhibition on Phytophthora Revealed by Genome Mining
Wang G, Liu Z, Lin R, Li E, Mao Z, Ling J, Yang Y, Yin WB, Xie B
Ref: PLoS Pathog, 12:e1005685, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2016_PLoS.Pathog_12_E1005685
PubMedSearch: Wang 2016 PLoS.Pathog 12 E1005685
PubMedID: 27416025
Gene_locus related to this paper: metcm-a0a179g1m3, metcm-a0a179g2w0, metcm-a0a4q7js68, purli-lcse

Abstract

Purpureocillium lilacinum of Ophiocordycipitaceae is one of the most promising and commercialized agents for controlling plant parasitic nematodes, as well as other insects and plant pathogens. However, how the fungus functions at the molecular level remains unknown. Here, we sequenced two isolates (PLBJ-1 and PLFJ-1) of P. lilacinum from different places Beijing and Fujian. Genomic analysis showed high synteny of the two isolates, and the phylogenetic analysis indicated they were most related to the insect pathogen Tolypocladium inflatum. A comparison with other species revealed that this fungus was enriched in carbohydrate-active enzymes (CAZymes), proteases and pathogenesis related genes. Whole genome search revealed a rich repertoire of secondary metabolites (SMs) encoding genes. The non-ribosomal peptide synthetase LcsA, which is comprised of ten C-A-PCP modules, was identified as the core biosynthetic gene of lipopeptide leucinostatins, which was specific to P. lilacinum and T. ophioglossoides, as confirmed by phylogenetic analysis. Furthermore, gene expression level was analyzed when PLBJ-1 was grown in leucinostatin-inducing and non-inducing medium, and 20 genes involved in the biosynthesis of leucionostatins were identified. Disruption mutants allowed us to propose a putative biosynthetic pathway of leucinostatin A. Moreover, overexpression of the transcription factor lcsF increased the production (1.5-fold) of leucinostatins A and B compared to wild type. Bioassays explored a new bioactivity of leucinostatins and P. lilacinum: inhibiting the growth of Phytophthora infestans and P. capsici. These results contribute to our understanding of the biosynthetic mechanism of leucinostatins and may allow us to utilize P. lilacinum better as bio-control agent.



        

Title: Multiple-Insecticide Resistance and Classic Gene Mutations to Japanese Encephalitis Vector Culex tritaeniorhynchus from China
Wu ZM, Chu HL, Wang G, Zhu XJ, Guo XX, Zhang YM, Xing D, Yan T, Zhao MH and Zhao TY <2 more author(s)> Wu ZM, Chu HL, Wang G, Zhu XJ, Guo XX, Zhang YM, Xing D, Yan T, Zhao MH, Dong YD, Li CX, Zhao TY (- 2)
Ref: J Am Mosq Control Assoc, 32:144, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wu_2016_J.Am.Mosq.Control.Assoc_32_144
PubMedSearch: Wu 2016 J.Am.Mosq.Control.Assoc 32 144
PubMedID: 27280353

Abstract

Widespread resistance of insect pests to insecticides has been widely reported in China and there is consequently an urgent need to adjust pest management strategies appropriately. This requires detailed information on the extent and causes of resistance. The aim of the present study was to investigate levels of resistance to 5 insecticides among 12 strains of Culex tritaeniorhynchus, a major vector of Japanese encephalitis in China. Resistance to deltamethrin, beta-cypermethrin, permethrin, dichlorvos, and propoxur were measured using larval bioassays. The allelic frequency of knockdown resistance (kdr) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) mutations were determined in all strains. Larval bioassay results indicated that the field strains collected from different sites were resistant to deltamethrin, beta-cypermethrin, permethrin, dichlorvos, and propoxur, with resistance ratio values ranging from 1.70- to 71.98-fold, 7.83- to 43.07-fold, 3.54- to 40.03-fold, 291.85- to 530.89-fold, and 51.32- to 108.83-fold, respectively. A polymerase chain reaction amplification of specific alleles method for individual was developed to detect genotypes of the AChE gene mutation F455W in Cx. tritaeniorhynchus. The frequency of the AChE gene mutation F455W was 100.00% in all strains, making this mutation of no value as a marker of resistance to organophosphorous and carbamate pesticides in Cx. tritaeniorhynchus in China. The kdr allele was present in all strains at frequencies of 10.00-29.55%. Regression analysis indicated a significant correlation between kdr allele frequencies and levels of resistance to deltamethrin, beta-cypermethrin, and permethrin. These results highlight the need to monitor and map insecticide resistance in Cx. tritaeniorhynchus and to adjust pesticide use to minimize the development of resistance in these mosquitoes.



        

Title: Genome and Transcriptome Sequences Reveal the Specific Parasitism of the Nematophagous Purpureocillium lilacinum 36-1
Xie J, Li S, Mo C, Xiao X, Peng D, Wang G, Xiao Y
Ref: Front Microbiol, 7:1084, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Xie_2016_Front.Microbiol_7_1084
PubMedSearch: Xie 2016 Front.Microbiol 7 1084
PubMedID: 27486440
Gene_locus related to this paper: purli-a0a2u3dwt4, purli-lcse

Abstract

Purpureocillium lilacinum is a promising nematophagous ascomycete able to adapt diverse environments and it is also an opportunistic fungus that infects humans. A microbial inoculant of P. lilacinum has been registered to control plant parasitic nematodes. However, the molecular mechanism of the toxicological processes is still unclear because of the relatively few reports on the subject. In this study, using Illumina paired-end sequencing, the draft genome sequence and the transcriptome of P. lilacinum strain 36-1 infecting nematode-eggs were determined. Whole genome alignment indicated that P. lilacinum 36-1 possessed a more dynamic genome in comparison with P. lilacinum India strain. Moreover, a phylogenetic analysis showed that the P. lilacinum 36-1 had a closer relation to entomophagous fungi. The protein-coding genes in P. lilacinum 36-1 occurred much more frequently than they did in other fungi, which was a result of the depletion of repeat-induced point mutations (RIP). Comparative genome and transcriptome analyses revealed the genes that were involved in pathogenicity, particularly in the recognition, adhesion of nematode-eggs, downstream signal transduction pathways and hydrolase genes. By contrast, certain numbers of cellulose and xylan degradation genes and a lack of polysaccharide lyase genes showed the potential of P. lilacinum 36-1 as an endophyte. Notably, the expression of appressorium-formation and antioxidants-related genes exhibited similar infection patterns in P. lilacinum strain 36-1 to those of the model entomophagous fungi Metarhizium spp. These results uncovered the specific parasitism of P. lilacinum and presented the genes responsible for the infection of nematode-eggs.



        

Title: Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of coumarin derivatives as novel acetylcholinesterase inhibitors that attenuate H2O2-induced apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells
Yao D, Wang J, Wang G, Jiang Y, Shang L, Zhao Y, Huang J, Yang S, Yu Y
Ref: Bioorg Chem, 68:112, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yao_2016_Bioorg.Chem_68_112
PubMedSearch: Yao 2016 Bioorg.Chem 68 112
PubMedID: 27479541

Abstract

A novel series of coumarin derivatives were designed, synthesized and investigated for inhibition of cholinesterase, including acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE). This biological study showed that these compounds containing piperazine ring had significant inhibition activities on AChE rather than BuChE. Further study suggested that 9x, as one of this kind of structure derivative, showed the strongest inhibition activity on AChE with an IC50 value of 34nM. Moreover, molecular docking, flow cytometry (FCM), and western blot assay suggested that 9x could induce cytoprotective autophagy to attenuate H2O2-induced cell death in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. These findings highlight a new approach for the development of a novel potential neuroprotective compound targeting AChE with autophagy-inducing activity in future Alzheimer's disease (AD) therapy.



        

Title: Pretreatment serum pseudocholinesterase level as a novel prognostic biomarker for upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Zhang B, Shen C, Jin J, Song Y, Zhao Z, Zhang X, Wang G, Fan Y, Mi Y and Han W <5 more author(s)> Zhang B, Shen C, Jin J, Song Y, Zhao Z, Zhang X, Wang G, Fan Y, Mi Y, Hu S, Cui Y, Zhou L, He Z, Yu W, Han W (- 5)
Ref: International Urology & Nephrology, 48:1993, 2016 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zhang_2016_Int.Urol.Nephrol_48_1993
PubMedSearch: Zhang 2016 Int.Urol.Nephrol 48 1993
PubMedID: 27554671

Abstract

PURPOSE: Pretreatment serum pseudocholinesterase (PChE) has been reported to be a prognostic predictor in several cancers. However, the prognostic significance of serum PChE level in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) remains unknown.
METHODS: A total of 180 patients who underwent radical nephroureterectomy (RNU) for UTUC were included in this retrospective analysis. The associations of pretreatment serum PChE levels with clinicopathological characteristics and clinical outcomes were assessed.
RESULTS: The median (IQR) pretreatment serum PChE level was 6385 (5449-7260) IU/L, and an optimal cutoff value of 5336 IU/L was set according to ROC analysis. Decreased pretreatment serum PChE levels were significantly correlated with older patient age, higher preoperative chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage and pT stage (all P < 0.05). On multivariate analysis, adjusting for preoperative variables, decreased pretreatment serum PChE levels independently predicted higher pT stage (P = 0.011). Moreover, Kaplan-Meier curves suggested that patients with PChE levels <5336 IU/L were predicted to have a shorter overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) than those with PChE levels >/=5336 IU/L (both P < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, decreased pretreatment serum PChE levels were significantly associated with shorter OS (HR 0.553; 95 %CI 0.322-0.951; P = 0.032) and CSS (HR 0.484; 95 %CI 0.269-0.870; P = 0.015).
CONCLUSIONS: Decreased pretreatment serum PChE level is an independent predictor for higher pT stage, shorter OS and CSS in patients with UTUC. Pretreatment serum PChE levels may act as a simple and effective parameter to predict prognosis for UTUC patients after RNU.



        

Title: Genomic information of the arsenic-resistant bacterium Lysobacter arseniciresistens type strain ZS79(T) and comparison of Lysobacter draft genomes
Liu L, Zhang S, Luo M, Wang G
Ref: Stand Genomic Sci, 10:88, 2015 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Liu_2015_Stand.Genomic.Sci_10_88
PubMedSearch: Liu 2015 Stand.Genomic.Sci 10 88
PubMedID: 26516404
Gene_locus related to this paper: 9gamm-a0a0a0f4f2

Abstract

Lysobacter arseniciresistens ZS79(T) is a highly arsenic-resistant,rod-shaped, motile, non-spore-forming, aerobic, Gram-negative bacterium. In this study, four Lysobacter type strains were sequenced and the genomic information of L. arseniciresistens ZS79(T) and the comparative genomics results of the Lysobacter strains were described. The draft genome sequence of the strain ZS79(T) consists of 3,086,721 bp and is distributed in 109 contigs. It has a G+C content of 69.5 % and contains 2,363 protein-coding genes including eight arsenic resistant genes.



        

Title: Differences in Alzheimer disease clinical trial outcomes based on age of the participants
Schneider LS, Kennedy RE, Wang G, Cutter GR
Ref: Neurology, 84:1121, 2015 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Schneider_2015_Neurology_84_1121
PubMedSearch: Schneider 2015 Neurology 84 1121
PubMedID: 25681452

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: We tested the a priori hypothesis that older participants differ in rates of decline on cognitive outcomes compared with younger participants, and examined the potential effect of age distributions on individual clinical trial outcomes.
METHODS: From a meta-database of 18 studies from the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study and the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, we included a cohort of 2,793 participants for whom there were baseline demographic data and at least one postbaseline cognitive assessment on the Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog), Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB), or Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). We used mixed-effects models (random coefficient models) to estimate change on the outcomes across 7 age groups ranging from younger than 61 years to older than 85 years after adjusting for education.
RESULTS: Significant worsening occurred in all age groups on all outcomes over time. The 4 older groups, aged 71 years and older, showed slower rates of decline on the ADAS-cog than the younger groups (p = 0.001). The older groups scored 2-3, 2-5, and 4-6 points better than the younger groups at 12, 18, and 24 months, respectively. There were similar differences across age groups for the MMSE, but not for the CDR-SB.
CONCLUSIONS: The differences in change on the ADAS-cog between older and younger participants are substantially greater than differences expected between experimental drugs and placebo in current trials or differences between marketed cholinesterase inhibitors and placebo. The clinical interpretation of change on the ADAS-cog or MMSE differs depending on age. Until predictors of decline are better understood, considering effects of age on rates of change is particularly important regarding clinical practice and outcomes of trials.



        

Title: Probing role of key residues in the divergent evolution of Yarrowia lipolytica lipase 2 and Aspergillus niger eruloyl esterase A
Wang G, Liu Z, Xu L, Zhang H, Yan Y
Ref: Microbiol Res, 178:27, 2015 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2015_Microbiol.Res_178_27
PubMedSearch: Wang 2015 Microbiol.Res 178 27
PubMedID: 26302844

Abstract

Yarrowia lipolytica lipase 2 (YLLip2) and Aspergillus niger feruloyl esterase A (AnFaeA) are enzymes of similar structures but with different functions. They are both classified into the same homologous family in Lipase Engineering Database (LED). The major difference between the two enzymes is that YLLip2 exhibits interfacial activity while AnFaeA does not. In order to better understand the interfacial activation mechanisms of YLLip2, structure guided site-directed mutagenesis were performed, mutants were constructed, kinetics parameters and lipase properties were detected. Mutant enzymes showed enhanced catalytic efficiency towards p-nitrophenyl butyrin (pNPB) but their catalytic efficiency decreased towards p-nitrophenyl palmitate (pNPP), their catalysis behavior was more close to feruloyl esterase. Moreover, the mutant enzymes exhibited enhanced thermostability compared with their wild type. These results indicate that I100 and F129 are probably cut-off point of divergent functions between the two enzymes during evolution.



        

Title: Genome of the facultative scuticociliatosis pathogen Pseudocohnilembus persalinus provides insight into its virulence through horizontal gene transfer
Xiong J, Wang G, Cheng J, Tian M, Pan X, Warren A, Jiang C, Yuan D, Miao W
Ref: Sci Rep, 5:15470, 2015 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Xiong_2015_Sci.Rep_5_15470
PubMedSearch: Xiong 2015 Sci.Rep 5 15470
PubMedID: 26486372
Gene_locus related to this paper: psepj-a0a0v0q7e6

Abstract

Certain ciliates of the subclass Scuticociliatia (scuticociliates) are facultative parasites of fishes in which they cause a suite of diseases collectively termed scuticociliatosis. Hitherto, comparatively little was known about genetics and genomics of scuticociliates or the mechanism of scuticociliatosis. In this study, a laboratory culture of the facultatively pathogenic scuticociliate Pseudocohnilembus persalinus was established and its genome sequenced, giving the first genome of a marine ciliate. Genome-wide horizontal gene transfer (HGT) analysis showed P. persalinus has acquired many unique prokaryote-derived genes that potentially contribute to the virulence of this organism, including cell adhesion, hemolysis and heme utilization genes. These findings give new insights into our understanding of the pathology of scuticociliates.



        

Title: High quality draft genomic sequence of Flavobacterium enshiense DK69(T) and comparison among Flavobacterium genomes
Zeng Z, Chen C, Du H, Wang G, Li M
Ref: Stand Genomic Sci, 10:92, 2015 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zeng_2015_Stand.Genomic.Sci_10_92
PubMedSearch: Zeng 2015 Stand.Genomic.Sci 10 92
PubMedID: 26561515
Gene_locus related to this paper: 9flao-v6scv7

Abstract

Flavobacterium enshiense DK69(T) is a Gram-negative, aerobic, rod-shaped, non-motile and non-flagellated bacterium that belongs to the family Flavobacteriaceae in the phylum Bacteroidetes. The high quality draft genome of strain DK69(T) was obtained and has a 3,375,260 bp genome size with a G + C content of 37.7 mol % and 2848 protein coding genes. In addition, we sequenced five more genomes of Flavobacterium type strains and performed a comparative genomic analysis among 12 Flavobacterium genomes. The results show some specific genes within the fish pathogenic Flavobacterium strains which provide information for further analysis the pathogenicity.



        

Title: Draft genome sequence of Cellulomonas carbonis T26(T) and comparative analysis of six Cellulomonas genomes
Zhuang W, Zhang S, Xia X, Wang G
Ref: Stand Genomic Sci, 10:104, 2015 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zhuang_2015_Stand.Genomic.Sci_10_104
PubMedSearch: Zhuang 2015 Stand.Genomic.Sci 10 104
PubMedID: 26587181
Gene_locus related to this paper: 9cell-a0a0a0bwd7

Abstract

Most Cellulomonas strains are cellulolytic and this feature may be applied in straw degradation and bioremediation. In this study, Cellulomonas carbonis T26(T), Cellulomonas bogoriensis DSM 16987(T) and Cellulomonas cellasea 20108(T) were sequenced. Here we described the draft genomic information of C. carbonis T26(T) and compared it to the related Cellulomonas genomes. Strain T26(T) has a 3,990,666 bp genome size with a G + C content of 73.4 %, containing 3418 protein-coding genes and 59 RNA genes. The results showed good correlation between the genotypes and the physiological phenotypes. The information are useful for the better application of the Cellulomonas strains.



        

Title: Oligostilbenoids with Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Activity from Dipterocarpus alatus
Chen CJ, Jiang R, Wang G, Jiao RH, Tancharoen C, Sudto K, Vajarothai S, Hannongbua S, Ge HM, Tan RX
Ref: Planta Med, 80:1641, 2014 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Chen_2014_Planta.Med_80_1641
PubMedSearch: Chen 2014 Planta.Med 80 1641
PubMedID: 25317771
Inhibitor(s) related to this paper: Hopeahainol-A

Abstract

Phytochemical investigation of the stem wood of Dipterocarpus alatus led to the isolation and characterization of four new oligostilbenoids, dipterocarpols A-D (1-4), together with two known resveratrol oligomers, hopeahainol (5) and hopeafuran (6). The structures of the new compounds were determined by comprehensive spectral analysis including 1D and 2D NMR, and high-resolution MS. The absolute configurations were determined by NOESY and CD spectra. Dipterocarpol A (1) and hopeahainol A (5) showed moderate acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity with IC50 values of 8.28 microM and 11.28 microM, respectively. Furthermore, the discovery of compound 3 gave the first evidence that the biosynthetic origin of resveratrol aneuploids is related to the loss of a half resveratrol unit by oxidative cleavage.



        

Title: Plant-Generated Artificial Small RNAs Mediated Aphid Resistance
Guo H, Song X, Wang G, Yang K, Wang Y, Niu L, Chen X, Fang R
Ref: PLoS ONE, 9:e97410, 2014 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Guo_2014_PLoS.One_9_e97410
PubMedSearch: Guo 2014 PLoS.One 9 e97410
PubMedID: 24819752

Abstract

BACKGROUND: RNA silencing is an important mechanism for regulation of endogenous gene expression and defense against genomic intruders in plants. This natural defense system was adopted to generate virus-resistant plants even before the mechanism of RNA silencing was unveiled. With the clarification of that mechanism, transgenic antiviral plants were developed that expressed artificial virus-specific hairpin RNAs (hpRNAs) or microRNAs (amiRNAs) in host plants. Previous works also showed that plant-mediated RNA silencing technology could be a practical method for constructing insect-resistant plants by expressing hpRNAs targeting essential genes of insects. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: In this study, we chose aphid Myzus persicae of order Hemiptera as a target insect. To screen for aphid genes vulnerable to attack by plant-mediated RNA silencing to establish plant aphid resistance, we selected nine genes of M. persicae as silencing targets, and constructed their hpRNA-expressing vectors. For the acetylcholinesterase 2 coding gene (MpAChE2), two amiRNA-expressing vectors were also constructed. The vectors were transformed into tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum cv. Xanti). Insect challenge assays showed that most of the transgenic plants gained aphid resistance, among which those expressing hpRNAs targeting V-type proton ATPase subunit E-like (V-ATPaseE) or tubulin folding cofactor D (TBCD) genes displayed stronger aphicidal activity. The transgenic plants expressing amiRNAs targeting two different sites in the MpAChE2 gene exhibited better aphid resistance than the plants expressing MpAChE2-specific hpRNA. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Our results indicated that plant-mediated insect-RNA silencing might be an effective way to develop plants resistant to insects with piercing-sucking mouthparts, and both the selection of vulnerable target genes and the biogenetic type of the small RNAs were crucial for the effectiveness of aphid control. The expression of insect-specific amiRNA is a promising and preferable approach to engineer plants resistant to aphids and, possibly, to other plant-infesting insects.



        

Title: Genome and transcriptome analysis of the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense causing banana vascular wilt disease
Guo L, Han L, Yang L, Zeng H, Fan D, Zhu Y, Feng Y, Wang G, Peng C and Huang J <9 more author(s)> Guo L, Han L, Yang L, Zeng H, Fan D, Zhu Y, Feng Y, Wang G, Peng C, Jiang X, Zhou D, Ni P, Liang C, Liu L, Wang J, Mao C, Fang X, Peng M, Huang J (- 9)
Ref: PLoS ONE, 9:e95543, 2014 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Guo_2014_PLoS.ONE_9_E95543
PubMedSearch: Guo 2014 PLoS.ONE 9 E95543
PubMedID: 24743270
Gene_locus related to this paper: fusox-w9hvf0, fusox-x0d9n6

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The asexual fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense (Foc) causing vascular wilt disease is one of the most devastating pathogens of banana (Musa spp.). To understand the molecular underpinning of pathogenicity in Foc, the genomes and transcriptomes of two Foc isolates were sequenced. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Genome analysis revealed that the genome structures of race 1 and race 4 isolates were highly syntenic with those of F. oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici strain Fol4287. A large number of putative virulence associated genes were identified in both Foc genomes, including genes putatively involved in root attachment, cell degradation, detoxification of toxin, transport, secondary metabolites biosynthesis and signal transductions. Importantly, relative to the Foc race 1 isolate (Foc1), the Foc race 4 isolate (Foc4) has evolved with some expanded gene families of transporters and transcription factors for transport of toxins and nutrients that may facilitate its ability to adapt to host environments and contribute to pathogenicity to banana. Transcriptome analysis disclosed a significant difference in transcriptional responses between Foc1 and Foc4 at 48 h post inoculation to the banana 'Brazil' in comparison with the vegetative growth stage. Of particular note, more virulence-associated genes were up regulated in Foc4 than in Foc1. Several signaling pathways like the mitogen-activated protein kinase Fmk1 mediated invasion growth pathway, the FGA1-mediated G protein signaling pathway and a pathogenicity associated two-component system were activated in Foc4 rather than in Foc1. Together, these differences in gene content and transcription response between Foc1 and Foc4 might account for variation in their virulence during infection of the banana variety 'Brazil'. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE: Foc genome sequences will facilitate us to identify pathogenicity mechanism involved in the banana vascular wilt disease development. These will thus advance us develop effective methods for managing the banana vascular wilt disease, including improvement of disease resistance in banana.



        

Title: A novel acetylcholinesterase biosensor based on carboxylic graphene coated with silver nanoparticles for pesticide detection
Liu Y, Wang G, Li C, Zhou Q, Wang M, Yang L
Ref: Mater Sci Eng C Mater Biol Appl, 35:253, 2014 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Liu_2014_Mater.Sci.Eng.C.Mater.Biol.Appl_35_253
PubMedSearch: Liu 2014 Mater.Sci.Eng.C.Mater.Biol.Appl 35 253
PubMedID: 24411376

Abstract

A novel acetylcholinesterase (AChE) biosensor based on Ag NPs, carboxylic graphene (CGR) and Nafion (NF) hybrid modified glass carbon electrode (GCE) has been successfully developed. Ag NPs-CGR-NF possessed predominant conductivity, catalysis and biocompatibility and provided a hydrophilic surface for AChE adhesion. Chitosan (CS) was used to immobilize AChE on the surface of Ag NPs-CGR-NF/GCE to keep the AChE activities. The AChE biosensor showed favorable affinity to acetylthiocholine chloride (ATCl) and could catalyze the hydrolysis of ATCl with an apparent Michaelis-Menten constant value of 133muM, which was then oxidized to produce a detectable and fast response. Under optimum conditions, the biosensor detected chlorpyrifos and carbaryl at concentrations ranging from 1.0x10(-13) to 1x10(-8)M and from 1.0x10(-12) to 1x10(-8)M. The detection limits for chlorpyrifos and carbaryl were 5.3x10(-14)M and 5.45x10(-13)M, respectively. The developed biosensor exhibited good sensitivity, stability, reproducibility and low cost, thus providing a promising tool for analysis of enzyme inhibitors. This study could provide a simple and effective immobilization platform for meeting the demand of the effective immobilization enzyme on the electrode surface.



        

Title: Aromatic Amino Acid Mutagenesis at the Substrate Binding Pocket of Yarrowia lipolytica Lipase Lip2 Affects Its Activity and Thermostability
Wang G, Liu Z, Xu L, Yan Y
Ref: ScientificWorldJournal, 2014:382581, 2014 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2014_ScientificWorldJournal_2014_382581
PubMedSearch: Wang 2014 ScientificWorldJournal 2014 382581
PubMedID: 25197700

Abstract

The lipase2 from Yarrowia lipolytica (YLLip2) is a yeast lipase exhibiting high homologous to filamentous fungal lipase family. Though its crystal structure has been resolved, its structure-function relationship has rarely been reported. By contrast, there are two amino acid residues (V94 and I100) with significant difference in the substrate binding pocket of YLLip2; they were subjected to site-directed mutagenesis (SDM) to introduce aromatic amino acid mutations. Two mutants (V94W and I100F) were created. The enzymatic properties of the mutant lipases were detected and compared with the wild-type. The activities of mutant enzymes dropped to some extent towards p-nitrophenyl palmitate (pNPC16) and their optimum temperature was 35 degrees C, which was 5 degrees C lower than that of the wild-type. However, the thermostability of I100F increased 22.44% after incubation for 1 h at 40 degrees C and its optimum substrate shifted from p-nitrophenyl laurate (pNPC12) to p-nitrophenyl caprate (pNPC10). The above results demonstrated that the two substituted amino acid residuals have close relationship with such enzymatic properties as thermostability and substrate selectivity.



        

Title: Pictet-Spengler reaction-based biosynthetic machinery in fungi
Yan W, Ge HM, Wang G, Jiang N, Mei YN, Jiang R, Li SJ, Chen CJ, Jiao RH and Tan RX <2 more author(s)> Yan W, Ge HM, Wang G, Jiang N, Mei YN, Jiang R, Li SJ, Chen CJ, Jiao RH, Xu Q, Ng SW, Tan RX (- 2)
Ref: Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 111:18138, 2014 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yan_2014_Proc.Natl.Acad.Sci.U.S.A_111_18138
PubMedSearch: Yan 2014 Proc.Natl.Acad.Sci.U.S.A 111 18138
PubMedID: 25425666

Abstract

The Pictet-Spengler (PS) reaction constructs plant alkaloids such as morphine and camptothecin, but it has not yet been noticed in the fungal kingdom. Here, a silent fungal Pictet-Spenglerase (FPS) gene of Chaetomium globosum 1C51 residing in Epinephelus drummondhayi guts is described and ascertained to be activable by 1-methyl-L-tryptophan (1-MT). The activated FPS expression enables the PS reaction between 1-MT and flavipin (fungal aldehyde) to form "unnatural" natural products with unprecedented skeletons, of which chaetoglines B and F are potently antibacterial with the latter inhibiting acetylcholinesterase. A gene-implied enzyme inhibition (GIEI) strategy has been introduced to address the key steps for PS product diversifications. In aggregation, the work designs and validates an innovative approach that can activate the PS reaction-based fungal biosynthetic machinery to produce unpredictable compounds of unusual and novel structure valuable for new biology and biomedicine.



        

Title: Signature gene expression reveals novel clues to the molecular mechanisms of dimorphic transition in Penicillium marneffei
Yang E, Chow WN, Wang G, Woo PC, Lau SK, Yuen KY, Lin X, Cai JJ
Ref: PLoS Genet, 10:e1004662, 2014 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yang_2014_PLoS.Genet_10_e1004662
PubMedSearch: Yang 2014 PLoS.Genet 10 e1004662
PubMedID: 25330172
Gene_locus related to this paper: penma-b6qmb1, penmq-b6qrx8, talma-a0a093xi19, talmq-b6qpy9, talmq-b6qez0, talma-a0a093v409

Abstract

Systemic dimorphic fungi cause more than one million new infections each year, ranking them among the significant public health challenges currently encountered. Penicillium marneffei is a systemic dimorphic fungus endemic to Southeast Asia. The temperature-dependent dimorphic phase transition between mycelium and yeast is considered crucial for the pathogenicity and transmission of P. marneffei, but the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. Here, we re-sequenced P. marneffei strain PM1 using multiple sequencing platforms and assembled the genome using hybrid genome assembly. We determined gene expression levels using RNA sequencing at the mycelial and yeast phases of P. marneffei, as well as during phase transition. We classified 2,718 genes with variable expression across conditions into 14 distinct groups, each marked by a signature expression pattern implicated at a certain stage in the dimorphic life cycle. Genes with the same expression patterns tend to be clustered together on the genome, suggesting orchestrated regulations of the transcriptional activities of neighboring genes. Using qRT-PCR, we validated expression levels of all genes in one of clusters highly expressed during the yeast-to-mycelium transition. These included madsA, a gene encoding MADS-box transcription factor whose gene family is exclusively expanded in P. marneffei. Over-expression of madsA drove P. marneffei to undergo mycelial growth at 37 degrees C, a condition that restricts the wild-type in the yeast phase. Furthermore, analyses of signature expression patterns suggested diverse roles of secreted proteins at different developmental stages and the potential importance of non-coding RNAs in mycelium-to-yeast transition. We also showed that RNA structural transition in response to temperature changes may be related to the control of thermal dimorphism. Together, our findings have revealed multiple molecular mechanisms that may underlie the dimorphic transition in P. marneffei, providing a powerful foundation for identifying molecular targets for mechanism-based interventions.



        

Title: Point Mutations Associated with Organophosphate and Carbamate Resistance in Chinese Strains of Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae)
Zhao M, Dong Y, Ran X, Wu Z, Guo X, Zhang Y, Xing D, Yan T, Wang G and Zhao T <3 more author(s)> Zhao M, Dong Y, Ran X, Wu Z, Guo X, Zhang Y, Xing D, Yan T, Wang G, Zhu X, Zhang H, Li C, Zhao T (- 3)
Ref: PLoS ONE, 9:e95260, 2014 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zhao_2014_PLoS.One_9_e952607
PubMedSearch: Zhao 2014 PLoS.One 9 e952607
PubMedID: 24788312
Gene_locus related to this paper: culpi-ACHE1

Abstract

Acetylcholinesterase resistance has been well documented in many insects, including several mosquito species. We tested the resistance of five wild, Chinese strains of the mosquito Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus to two kinds of pesticides, dichlorvos and propoxur. An acetylcholinesterase gene (ace1) was cloned and sequenced from a pooled sample of mosquitoes from these five strains and the amino acids of five positions were found to vary (V185M, G247S, A328S, A391T, and T682A). Analysis of the correlation between mutation frequencies and resistance levels (LC50) suggests that two point mutations, G247S (r2 = 0.732, P = 0.065) and A328S (r2 = 0.891, P = 0.016), are associated with resistance to propoxur but not to dichlorvos. Although the V185M mutation was not associated with either dichlorvos or propoxur resistance, its RS genotype frequency was correlated with propoxur resistance (r2 = 0.815, P = 0.036). And the HWE test showed the A328S mutation is linked with V185M, also with G247S mutation. This suggested that these three mutations may contribute synergistically to propoxur resistance. The T682A mutation was negatively correlated with propoxur (r2 = 0.788, P = 0.045) resistance. Knowledge of these mutations may help design strategies for managing pesticide resistance in wild mosquito populations.



        

Title: HIF-1alpha up-regulates NDRG1 expression through binding to NDRG1 promoter, leading to proliferation of lung cancer A549 cells
Wang Q, Li LH, Gao GD, Wang G, Qu L, Li JG, Wang CM
Ref: Mol Biol Rep, 40:3723, 2013 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2013_Mol.Biol.Rep_40_3723
PubMedSearch: Wang 2013 Mol.Biol.Rep 40 3723
PubMedID: 23526365

Abstract

Hypoxia-inducible signaling pathway is involved in many pathological processes, such as adaptiveness regulation of plateau environment, myocardial ischemia and tumorigenesis. NDRG1 is a member of the N-myc downregulated gene (NDRG) family, and it has strong hypoxia stress reaction functions. Although the cellular responses to hypoxia are well known, little is known about the interaction between hypoxia-inducible transcription factor (HIF)-1alpha and NDRG1. In this study, we cloned HIF-1alpha CDS, NDRG1 promoter and its truncatures, constructed pCDNA3.0-Hif-1alpha and pGL3-basic-NDRG1. Reporter assay results showed that HIF-1alpha could bind to NDRG1 promoter to activate NDRG1 expression. Further results revealed that -1202 to -450 of NDRG1 promoter is the most important region for HIF-1alpha binding. Then, we constructed NDRG1 stable transfection cell line. Results from MTT, colony-forming assay and flow cytometry showed that NDRG1 overexpression results in more proliferation and less apoptosis of A549 lung cancer cells. Our study elucidates the mechanism of NGRG1 in hypoxia stress reactions and may provide new strategy for hypoxia injuries.



        

Title: Development of a biosensor based on immobilization of acetylcholinesterase on NiO nanoparticles-carboxylic graphene-nafion modified electrode for detection of pesticides
Yang L, Wang G, Liu Y, Wang M
Ref: Talanta, 113:135, 2013 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yang_2013_Talanta_113_135
PubMedSearch: Yang 2013 Talanta 113 135
PubMedID: 23708635

Abstract

A sensitive amperometric acetylcholinesterase (AChE) biosensor based on NiO nanoparticles (NiO NPs), carboxylic graphene (CGR) and nafion (NF) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) has been developed. NiO NPs-CGR-NF nanocomposites with excellent conductivity, catalysis and biocompatibility offered an extremely hydrophilic surface for AChE adhesion. The AChE biosensor showed favorable affinity to acetylthiocholine chloride (ATCl) and could catalyze the hydrolysis of ATCl with an apparent Michaelis-Menten constant value of 135muM. Under optimum conditions, the biosensor detected methyl parathion and chlorpyrifos in the linear range from 1.0x10(-13) to 1x10(-10)M and from 1.0x10(-10) to 1x10(-8)M with the detection limits 5x10(-14)M. The biosensor detected carbofuran in the linear range from 1.0x10(-12) to 1x10(-10)M and from 1.0x10(-10) to 1x10(-8)M with the detection limit of 5x10(-13)M. The developed biosensor exhibited good sensitivity, stability and reproducibility, thus providing a promising tool for analysis of enzyme inhibitors.



        

Title: Acetylcholinesterase biosensor based on SnO nanoparticles-carboxylic graphene-nafion modified electrode for detection of pesticides
Yang L, Zhou Q, Wang G, Yang Y
Ref: Biosensors & Bioelectronics, 49C:25, 2013 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yang_2013_Biosens.Bioelectron_49C_25
PubMedSearch: Yang 2013 Biosens.Bioelectron 49C 25
PubMedID: 23708814

Abstract

A sensitive amperometric acetylcholinesterase (AChE) biosensor, based on SnO2 nanoparticles (SnO2 NPs), carboxylic graphene (CGR) and nafion (NF) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) for the detection of methyl parathion and carbofuran has been developed. The nanocomposites of SnO2 NPs and CGR was synthesized and characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), respectively. Chitosan (CS) was used to immobilize AChE on SnO2 NPs-CGR-NF/GCE and to improve electronic transmission between AChE and SnO2 NPs-CGR-NF/GCE. NF was used as the protective membrane for the AChE biosensor. The SnO2 NPs-CGR-NF nanocomposites with excellent conductivity, catalysis and biocompatibility offered an extremely hydrophilic surface for AChE adhesion. The AChE biosensor showed favorable affinity to acetylthiocholine chloride (ATCl) and could catalyze the hydrolysis of ATCl with an apparent Michaelis-Menten constant value of 131muM. The biosensor detected methyl parathion in the linear range from 10-13 to 10-10M and from 10-10 to 10-8M. The biosensor detected carbofuran in the linear range from 10-12 to 10-10M and from 10-10 to 10-8M. The detection limits of methyl parathion and carbofuran were 5x10-14M and 5x10-13M, respectively. The biosensor exhibited low applied potential, high sensitivity and acceptable stability, thus providing a promising tool for analysis of pesticides.



        

Title: An acetylcholinesterase biosensor based on platinum nanoparticles-carboxylic graphene-nafion-modified electrode for detection of pesticides
Yang L, Wang G, Liu Y
Ref: Analytical Biochemistry, 437:144, 2013 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yang_2013_Anal.Biochem_437_144
PubMedSearch: Yang 2013 Anal.Biochem 437 144
PubMedID: 23499967

Abstract

A sensitive amperometric acetylcholinesterase (AChE) biosensor based on platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs), carboxylic graphene (CGR), and nafion (NF)-modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE) has been developed. The Pt NPs-CGR-NF nanocomposites with excellent conductivity, catalysis, and biocompatibility offered an extremely hydrophilic surface for AChE adhesion. Chitosan (CS) was used as cross-linker to immobilize the AChE on Pt-CGR-NF-modified GCE. NF was used as a protective membrane of the AChE biosensors. The AChE biosensor showed favorable affinity to acetylthiocholine chloride (ATCl) and could catalyze the hydrolysis of ATCl with an apparent Michaelis-Menten constant value of 148muM. Under optimum conditions, the biosensor detected methyl parathion in the linear range from 1.0x10(-13) to 1x10(-10)M and from 1.0x10(-10) to 1x10(-8)M with a detection limit of 5x10(-14)M and detected carbofuran in the linear range from 1.0x10(-12) to 1x10(-10)M and from 1.0x10(-10) to 1x10(-8)M with a detection limit of 5x10(-13)M. The biosensor exhibited good sensitivity, acceptable stability, and reproducibility, thus providing a promising tool for analysis of enzyme inhibitors.



        

Title: Genome sequence of the arsenite-oxidizing strain Agrobacterium tumefaciens 5A
Hao X, Lin Y, Johnstone L, Liu G, Wang G, Wei G, McDermott T, Rensing C
Ref: Journal of Bacteriology, 194:903, 2012 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Hao_2012_J.Bacteriol_194_903
PubMedSearch: Hao 2012 J.Bacteriol 194 903
PubMedID: 22275101
Gene_locus related to this paper: agrsh-f0lb16, rhird-h0hik8

Abstract

Microbial transformations of arsenic influence its mobility and toxicity. We report the draft genome sequence of the arsenite-oxidizing strain Agrobacterium tumefaciens 5A isolated from an As-contaminated soil in the Madison River Valley, MT. A large number of metal (or metalloid) resistance genes, especially contributing to arsenite oxidation, were identified.



        

Title: Genome sequence of the facultative anaerobic arsenite-oxidizing and nitrate-reducing bacterium Acidovorax sp. strain NO1
Huang Y, Li H, Rensing C, Zhao K, Johnstone L, Wang G
Ref: Journal of Bacteriology, 194:1635, 2012 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Huang_2012_J.Bacteriol_194_1635
PubMedSearch: Huang 2012 J.Bacteriol 194 1635
PubMedID: 22374962
Gene_locus related to this paper: 9burk-h0bst5, 9burk-h0btc1, 9burk-h0bvx7, 9burk-h0c063, 9burk-h0bxd3, 9burk-h0c434, 9burk-h0bzn8

Abstract

Acidovorax sp. strain NO1, isolated from gold mine soil, was shown to be a facultative anaerobic arsenite-oxidizing and nitrate-reducing bacterium. The reported draft genome predicts the presence of genes involved in arsenic metabolism, nitrate reduction, phosphate transport, and multiple metal resistances and indicates putative horizontal gene transfer events.



        

Title: Genome sequence of the moderately halotolerant, arsenite-oxidizing bacterium Pseudomonas stutzeri TS44
Li X, Gong J, Hu Y, Cai L, Johnstone L, Grass G, Rensing C, Wang G
Ref: Journal of Bacteriology, 194:4473, 2012 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Li_2012_J.Bacteriol_194_4473
PubMedSearch: Li 2012 J.Bacteriol 194 4473
PubMedID: 22843599
Gene_locus related to this paper: psest-i4ji83, psest-i4jnm8

Abstract

We present the draft genome sequence of Pseudomonas stutzeri TS44, a moderately halotolerant, arsenite-oxidizing bacterium isolated from arsenic-contaminated soil. The genome contains genes for arsenite oxidation, arsenic resistance, and ectoine/hydroxyectoine biosynthesis. The genome information will be useful for exploring adaptation of P. stutzeri TS44 to an arsenic-contaminated environment.



        

Title: Genome sequence of the highly efficient arsenite-oxidizing bacterium Achromobacter arsenitoxydans SY8
Li X, Hu Y, Gong J, Lin Y, Johnstone L, Rensing C, Wang G
Ref: Journal of Bacteriology, 194:1243, 2012 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Li_2012_J.Bacteriol_194_1243
PubMedSearch: Li 2012 J.Bacteriol 194 1243
PubMedID: 22328747
Gene_locus related to this paper: 9burk-h0faw9, 9burk-h0f9y5, 9burk-h0fda6

Abstract

We report the draft genome sequence of Achromobacter arsenitoxydans SY8, the first reported arsenite-oxidizing bacterium belonging to the genus Achromobacter and containing a genomic arsenic island, an intact type III secretion system, and multiple metal(loid) transporters. The genome may be helpful to explore the mechanisms intertwining metal(loid) resistance and pathogenicity.



        

Title: Draft genome sequence of Halomonas sp. strain HAL1, a moderately halophilic arsenite-oxidizing bacterium isolated from gold-mine soil
Lin Y, Fan H, Hao X, Johnstone L, Hu Y, Wei G, Alwathnani HA, Wang G, Rensing C
Ref: Journal of Bacteriology, 194:199, 2012 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Lin_2012_J.Bacteriol_194_199
PubMedSearch: Lin 2012 J.Bacteriol 194 199
PubMedID: 22156396
Gene_locus related to this paper: 9gamm-g4fal7, 9gamm-g4f104

Abstract

We report the draft genome sequence of arsenite-oxidizing Halomonas sp. strain HAL1, isolated from the soil of a gold mine. Genes encoding proteins involved in arsenic resistance and transformation, phosphate utilization and uptake, and betaine biosynthesis were identified. Their identification might help in understanding how arsenic and phosphate metabolism are intertwined.



        

Title: Genome sequence of deep-sea manganese-oxidizing bacterium Marinobacter manganoxydans MnI7-9
Wang H, Li H, Shao Z, Liao S, Johnstone L, Rensing C, Wang G
Ref: Journal of Bacteriology, 194:899, 2012 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2012_J.Bacteriol_194_899
PubMedSearch: Wang 2012 J.Bacteriol 194 899
PubMedID: 22275098
Gene_locus related to this paper: 9alte-g6yvt2, 9alte-g6ypj5, 9alte-g6yut5

Abstract

Here we report the draft genome of Marinobacter manganoxydans MnI7-9, isolated from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent in the Indian Ocean and capable of oxidizing manganese even when there is a very high concentration of Mn(2+). The strain also displayed high resistance and adsorption ability toward many metal(loid)s.



        

Title: Plant phospholipases: an overview
Wang G, Ryu S, Wang X
Ref: Methods Mol Biol, 861:123, 2012 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2012_Methods.Mol.Biol_861_123
PubMedSearch: Wang 2012 Methods.Mol.Biol 861 123
PubMedID: 22426716

Abstract

Plant phospholipases can be grouped into four major types, phospholipase D, phospholipase C, phospholipase A1 (PLA(1)), and phospholipase A2 (PLA(2)), that hydrolyze glycerophospholipids at different ester bonds. Within each type, there are different families or subfamilies of enzymes that can differ in substrate specificity, cofactor requirement, and/or reaction conditions. These differences provide insights into determining the cellular function of specific phospholipases in plants, and they can be explored for different industrial applications.



        

Title: Characterization and genomic analysis of a highly chromate resistant and reducing bacterial strain Lysinibacillus fusiformis ZC1
He M, Li X, Liu H, Miller SJ, Wang G, Rensing C
Ref: J Hazard Mater, 185:682, 2011 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: He_2011_J.Hazard.Mater_185_682
PubMedSearch: He 2011 J.Hazard.Mater 185 682
PubMedID: 20952126
Gene_locus related to this paper: 9baci-d7wzf8

Abstract

Lysinibacillus fusiformis ZC1 isolated from chromium (Cr) contaminated wastewater of a metal electroplating factory displayed high chromate [Cr(VI)] resistance with a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 60mM in R2A medium. L. fusiformis ZC1 showed resistances to multiple metals (Cu, Ni, Co, Hg, Cd and Ag) and a metalloid (As). This bacterium exhibited an extremely rapid Cr(VI) reduction capability. It almost completely reduced 1mM K(2)CrO(4) in 12h. The Cr(VI) reduction ability of L. fusiformis ZC1 was enhanced by sodium acetate and NADH. By whole genome sequence analysis, strain ZC1 was found to contain large numbers of metal(loid) resistance genes. Specifically, a chrA gene encoding a putative chromate transporter conferring chromate resistance was identified. The chromate resistance was constitutive in both phenotypic and gene expression analyses. Furthermore, we found a yieF gene and several genes encoding reductases that were possibly involved in chromate reduction. Expression of adjacent putative chromate reduction related genes, nitR and yieF, was found to be constitutive. The large numbers of NADH-dependent chromate reductase genes may be responsible for the rapid chromate reduction in order to detoxify Cr(VI) and survive in the harsh wastewater environment.



        

Title: Two-step synthesis of fatty acid ethyl ester from soybean oil catalyzed by Yarrowia lipolytica lipase
Meng Y, Wang G, Yang N, Zhou Z, Li Y, Liang X, Chen J, Li J
Ref: Biotechnol Biofuels, 4:6, 2011 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Meng_2011_Biotechnol.Biofuels_4_6
PubMedSearch: Meng 2011 Biotechnol.Biofuels 4 6
PubMedID: 21366905

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Enzymatic biodiesel production by transesterification in solvent media has been investigated intensively, but glycerol, as a by-product, could block the immobilized enzyme and excess n-hexane, as a solution aid, would reduce the productivity of the enzyme. Esterification, a solvent-free and no-glycerol-release system for biodiesel production, has been developed, and two-step catalysis of soybean oil, hydrolysis followed by esterification, with Yarrowia lipolytica lipase is reported in this paper. RESULTS: First, soybean oil was hydrolyzed at 40 degrees C by 100 U of lipase broth per 1 g of oil with approximately 30% to 60% (vol/vol) water. The free fatty acid (FFA) distilled from this hydrolysis mixture was used for the esterification of FFA to fatty acid ethyl ester by immobilized lipase. A mixture of 2.82 g of FFA and equimolar ethanol (addition in three steps) were shaken at 30 degrees C with 18 U of lipase per 1 gram of FFA. The degree of esterification reached 85% after 3 hours. The lipase membranes were taken out, dehydrated and subjected to fresh esterification so that over 82% of esterification was maintained, even though the esterification was repeated every 3 hours for 25 batches. CONCLUSION: The two-step enzymatic process without glycerol released and solvent-free demonstrated higher efficiency and safety than enzymatic transesterification, which seems very promising for lipase-catalyzed, large-scale production of biodiesel, especially from high acid value waste oil.



        

Title: Genome analysis and characterization of zinc efflux systems of a highly zinc-resistant bacterium, Comamonas testosteroni S44
Xiong J, Li D, Li H, He M, Miller SJ, Yu L, Rensing C, Wang G
Ref: Res Microbiol, 162:671, 2011 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Xiong_2011_Res.Microbiol_162_671
PubMedSearch: Xiong 2011 Res.Microbiol 162 671
PubMedID: 21704702
Gene_locus related to this paper: comt2-d0iyk2, comt2-d0j233, comte-b7wz02, comte-b7x2b9, comte-d8d186, comte-b7wth6, comte-d8d685, comte-d8d7u8

Abstract

A novel and multiple metal(loid)-resistant strain Comamonas testosteroni S44 with a high Zn(2+) resistance level (10 mM) was isolated. To understand the molecular basis for the high zinc resistance, whole genome sequencing was performed and revealed a large number of genes encoding putative metal(loid) resistance proteins, mobile genetic elements (MGEs) and horizontal gene transfer (HGT) events that may have occurred to adapt to a metal(loid)-contaminated environment. In particular, 9 putative Zn(2+) transporters [4 znt operons encoding putative Zn(2+)-translocating P-type ATPases and 5 czc operons encoding putative RND-driven (resistance, nodulation, cell division protein family)] tripartite protein complexes were identified. Real-time RT-PCR analysis revealed that the four zntA-like genes were all induced by Zn(2+), while czcA genes were either Zn(2+)-induced or downregulated by Zn(2+). Furthermore, a zntR1A1 operon encoding a ZntR-type regulator and a P-type ATPase was studied in detail. The zntR1 deletion strain (S44DeltazntR1) displayed intermediate resistance to Zn(2+) (6 mM) and accumulated more intracellular Zn(2+). Reporter gene expression assays indicated that ZntR1 responded to Zn(2+), Cd(2+) and Pb(2+), with Zn(2+) being the best inducer. Gene transcription analysis indicated that ZntR1 was a regulator for transcription of zntA1, while other putative ZntR-type regulators may also regulate the transcription expression of zntA1.



        

Title: Characterization and genomic analysis of chromate resistant and reducing Bacillus cereus strain SJ1
He M, Li X, Guo L, Miller SJ, Rensing C, Wang G
Ref: BMC Microbiol, 10:221, 2010 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: He_2010_BMC.Microbiol_10_221
PubMedSearch: He 2010 BMC.Microbiol 10 221
PubMedID: 20723231
Gene_locus related to this paper: bacan-BA5009, bacce-BC2141, bacce-BC2171

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Chromium is a toxic heavy metal, which primarily exists in two inorganic forms, Cr(VI) and Cr(III). Chromate [Cr(VI)] is carcinogenic, mutational, and teratogenic due to its strong oxidizing nature. Biotransformation of Cr(VI) to less-toxic Cr(III) by chromate-resistant and reducing bacteria has offered an ecological and economical option for chromate detoxification and bioremediation. However, knowledge of the genetic determinants for chromate resistance and reduction has been limited so far. Our main aim was to investigate chromate resistance and reduction by Bacillus cereus SJ1, and to further study the underlying mechanisms at the molecular level using the obtained genome sequence.
RESULTS: Bacillus cereus SJ1 isolated from chromium-contaminated wastewater of a metal electroplating factory displayed high Cr(VI) resistance with a minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 30 mM when induced with Cr(VI). A complete bacterial reduction of 1 mM Cr(VI) was achieved within 57 h. By genome sequence analysis, a putative chromate transport operon, chrIA1, and two additional chrA genes encoding putative chromate transporters that likely confer chromate resistance were identified. Furthermore, we also found an azoreductase gene azoR and four nitroreductase genes nitR possibly involved in chromate reduction. Using reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) technology, it was shown that expression of adjacent genes chrA1 and chrI was induced in response to Cr(VI) but expression of the other two chromate transporter genes chrA2 and chrA3 was constitutive. In contrast, chromate reduction was constitutive in both phenotypic and gene expression analyses. The presence of a resolvase gene upstream of chrIA1, an arsenic resistance operon and a gene encoding Tn7-like transposition proteins ABBCCCD downstream of chrIA1 in B. cereus SJ1 implied the possibility of recent horizontal gene transfer. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that expression of the chromate transporter gene chrA1 was inducible by Cr(VI) and most likely regulated by the putative transcriptional regulator ChrI. The bacterial Cr(VI)-resistant level was also inducible. The presence of an adjacent arsenic resistance gene cluster nearby the chrIA1 suggested that strong selective pressure by chromium and arsenic could cause bacterial horizontal gene transfer. Such events may favor the survival and increase the resistance level of B. cereus SJ1.



        

Title: The sequence and de novo assembly of the giant panda genome
Li R, Fan W, Tian G, Zhu H, He L, Cai J, Huang Q, Cai Q, Li B and Yang H <103 more author(s)> Li R, Fan W, Tian G, Zhu H, He L, Cai J, Huang Q, Cai Q, Li B, Bai Y, Zhang Z, Zhang Y, Wang W, Li J, Wei F, Li H, Jian M, Nielsen R, Li D, Gu W, Yang Z, Xuan Z, Ryder OA, Leung FC, Zhou Y, Cao J, Sun X, Fu Y, Fang X, Guo X, Wang B, Hou R, Shen F, Mu B, Ni P, Lin R, Qian W, Wang G, Yu C, Nie W, Wang J, Wu Z, Liang H, Min J, Wu Q, Cheng S, Ruan J, Wang M, Shi Z, Wen M, Liu B, Ren X, Zheng H, Dong D, Cook K, Shan G, Zhang H, Kosiol C, Xie X, Lu Z, Li Y, Steiner CC, Lam TT, Lin S, Zhang Q, Li G, Tian J, Gong T, Liu H, Zhang D, Fang L, Ye C, Zhang J, Hu W, Xu A, Ren Y, Zhang G, Bruford MW, Li Q, Ma L, Guo Y, An N, Hu Y, Zheng Y, Shi Y, Li Z, Liu Q, Chen Y, Zhao J, Qu N, Zhao S, Tian F, Wang X, Wang H, Xu L, Liu X, Vinar T, Wang Y, Lam TW, Yiu SM, Liu S, Huang Y, Yang G, Jiang Z, Qin N, Li L, Bolund L, Kristiansen K, Wong GK, Olson M, Zhang X, Li S, Yang H (- 103)
Ref: Nature, 463:311, 2010 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Li_2010_Nature_463_311
PubMedSearch: Li 2010 Nature 463 311
PubMedID: 20010809
Gene_locus related to this paper: ailme-ABH15, ailme-ACHE, ailme-BCHE, ailme-d2gtv3, ailme-d2gty9, ailme-d2gu87, ailme-d2gu97, ailme-d2gve7, ailme-d2gwu1, ailme-d2gx08, ailme-d2gyt0, ailme-d2gz36, ailme-d2gz37, ailme-d2gz38, ailme-d2gz39, ailme-d2gz40, ailme-d2h5r9, ailme-d2h7b7, ailme-d2h9c9, ailme-d2h794, ailme-d2hau7, ailme-d2hau8, ailme-d2hcd9, ailme-d2hdi6, ailme-d2heu6, ailme-d2hga4, ailme-d2hqw5, ailme-d2hs98, ailme-d2hsx4, ailme-d2hti6, ailme-d2htv3, ailme-d2htz6, ailme-d2huc7, ailme-d2hwj8, ailme-d2hwy7, ailme-d2hxm1, ailme-d2hyc8, ailme-d2hyv2, ailme-d2hz11, ailme-d2hza3, ailme-d2hzr4, ailme-d2i1l4, ailme-d2i2g8, ailme-g1l7m3, ailme-g1lu36, ailme-g1m769, ailme-g1mc29, ailme-g1mdj8, ailme-g1mdr5, ailme-g1mfp4, ailme-g1mfx5, ailme-g1lj41, ailme-g1lm28, ailme-g1l3u1, ailme-g1l7l1, ailme-g1m5i3, ailme-g1l2f6, ailme-g1lji5, ailme-g1lqk3, ailme-g1l8s9, ailme-d2h717, ailme-d2h718, ailme-d2h719, ailme-d2h720, ailme-g1m5v0, ailme-g1m5y7, ailme-g1lkt7, ailme-g1l2a1, ailme-g1lsc8, ailme-g1lrp4, ailme-d2gv02, ailme-g1mik5, ailme-g1ljr1, ailme-g1lxw7, ailme-d2h8b5, ailme-d2h2r2, ailme-d2h9w7, ailme-g1meh3, ailme-g1m719

Abstract

Using next-generation sequencing technology alone, we have successfully generated and assembled a draft sequence of the giant panda genome. The assembled contigs (2.25 gigabases (Gb)) cover approximately 94% of the whole genome, and the remaining gaps (0.05 Gb) seem to contain carnivore-specific repeats and tandem repeats. Comparisons with the dog and human showed that the panda genome has a lower divergence rate. The assessment of panda genes potentially underlying some of its unique traits indicated that its bamboo diet might be more dependent on its gut microbiome than its own genetic composition. We also identified more than 2.7 million heterozygous single nucleotide polymorphisms in the diploid genome. Our data and analyses provide a foundation for promoting mammalian genetic research, and demonstrate the feasibility for using next-generation sequencing technologies for accurate, cost-effective and rapid de novo assembly of large eukaryotic genomes.



        

Title: Oxidative damage effects in the copepod Tigriopus japonicus Mori experimentally exposed to nickel
Wang M, Wang G
Ref: Ecotoxicology, 19:273, 2010 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2010_Ecotoxicology_19_273
PubMedSearch: Wang 2010 Ecotoxicology 19 273
PubMedID: 19821026

Abstract

Tigriopus japonicus Mori has been recognized as a good model for toxicological testing of marine pollutants. Recently, a large number of genes have been identified from this copepod, and their mRNA expression has been studied independently against exposure to marine pollutants; however, biochemical-response information is relatively scarce. The response of T. japonicus to nickel (Ni) additions was examined under laboratory-controlled conditions in 12 days exposure. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), acetylcholinesterase (AchE), reduced glutathione (GSH), the ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) and metallothionein (MT) were analyzed for Ni treatments (0, 0.125, 0.25, 0.75 and 3.0 mg/L) after 1, 4, 7 and 12 days. The thiobarbituric reactive species assay was used to evaluate lipid peroxidation (LPO) level in copepods after exposure. The results showed that Ni remarkably affected the biochemical parameters (SOD, GPx, GST, GSH, and GSH/GSSG) after certain exposure durations. However, the copepod's LPO level was significantly decreased under metal treatments after exposure, hinting that the factors involved in LPO might not significantly depend on the operations and functions in the antioxidant system. Ni exhibited the neurotoxicity to copepods, because its use obviously elevated AchE activity. During exposure, Ni initially displayed an inhibition effect but induced MT synthesis in T. japonicus by day 12, probably being responsible for metal detoxification. Thus, Ni had intervened in the detoxification process and antioxidant system of this copepod, and it could be used as a suitable bioindicator of Ni exposure via measuring SOD, GPx, GST, and MT as biomarkers.



        

Title: [Experimental study on promotion of neurotropic reinnervation with chemically extracted acellular nerve allograft]
Wang G, Lu S, Kuang Z, Peng J, Guo Q, Ji H
Ref: Zhongguo Xiu Fu Chong Jian Wai Ke Za Zhi, 24:1288, 2010 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2010_Zhongguo.Xiu.Fu.Chong.Jian.Wai.Ke.Za.Zhi_24_1288
PubMedSearch: Wang 2010 Zhongguo.Xiu.Fu.Chong.Jian.Wai.Ke.Za.Zhi 24 1288
PubMedID: 21226346

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the promotion effect of neurotropic reinnervation with chemically extracted acellular nerve allograft. METHODS: The sciatic nerves of 5 healthy adult SD rats, regardless of gender and weighing 270-300 g, were collected to prepare chemically extracted acellular nerve allograft. Eighteen healthy adult Wistar rats, regardless of gender and weighing 300-320 g, were made the model of left sciatic nerve defect (10 mm) and randomly divided into 2 groups: autograft (control group, n = 9) and allograft group (experimental group, n = 9). The defects were bridged by acellular nerve allograft in experimental group and by autograft by turning over the proximal and distal ends of the nerve in control group. At 3 months after transplantation, dorsal root ganglion (DRG) resection operation was performed in 6 rats of 2 groups. At 3 weeks after operation, the sural nerves were harvested to calculate the misdirection rate of nerve fibers with pathological staining and compute-assisted image analysis. Cholinesterase staining and carbonic anhydrase staining were performed in the sural nerve of 3 rats that did not undergo DRG resection at 3 months. RESULTS: The results of cholinesterase staining and carbonic anhydrase staining showed that experimental group had less brown granules and more black granules than control group. After DRG resection, count of myelinated nerve fiber were 4 257 +/- 285 in the experimental group and 4 494 +/- 310 in the control group significant (P < 0.05). The misdirection rate was 2.27% +/- 0.28% and 7.65% +/- 0.68% in the experimental group and in the control group respectively, showing significant difference (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Chemically extracted acellular nerve allograft can not only act as a scaffold in the period of nerve defects repair, but markedly enhance the effects of neurotropic reinnervation.



        

Title: Lipase immobilized by modification-coupled and adsorption-cross-linking methods: A comparative study
Yang J, Ma X, Zhang Z, Chen B, Li S, Wang G
Ref: Biotechnol Adv, 28:644, 2010 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yang_2010_Biotechnol.Adv_28_644
PubMedSearch: Yang 2010 Biotechnol.Adv 28 644
PubMedID: 20478376

Abstract

Candida antarctica lipase was immobilized by an adsorption and cross-linking method with NW-ZT2 and by modification-coupled method with a silica-PEG gel. The final product silica-PEG-lipase was confirmed by IR spectra. The optimum pH value, the optimum temperature, the thermo-stabilities and operational stabilities for two kinds of immobilized lipase were also determined. Results show that the silica-PEG-lipase gel was superior to the lipase immobilized by adsorption and cross-linking, however both are viable for use in transesterification reactions.



        

Title: Modulation of glucagon-like peptide-1 release by berberine: in vivo and in vitro studies
Yu Y, Liu L, Wang X, Liu X, Xie L, Wang G
Ref: Biochemical Pharmacology, 79:1000, 2010 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yu_2010_Biochem.Pharmacol_79_1000
PubMedSearch: Yu 2010 Biochem.Pharmacol 79 1000
PubMedID: 19945441
Inhibitor(s) related to this paper: Berberine

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide (GLP)-1 is a potent glucose-dependent insulinotropic gut hormone released from intestinal L cells. Our previous studies showed that berberine increased GLP-1 secretion in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The aim of this study was to investigate whether berberine affected GLP-1 release in normal rats and in NCI-H716 cells. Proglucagon and prohormone convertase 3 genes regulating GLP-1 biosynthesis were analyzed by RT-PCR. Effects of pharmacological inhibitors on berberine-mediated GLP-1 release were studied. In vivo, 5-week treatment of berberine enhanced GLP-1 secretion induced by glucose load and promoted proglucagon mRNA expression as well as L cell proliferation in intestine. In vitro, berberine concentration-dependently stimulated GLP-1 release in NCI-H716 cells. Berberine also promoted both prohormone convertase 3 and proglucagon mRNA expression. Chelerythrine (inhibitor of PKC) concentration-dependently suppressed berberine-mediated GLP-1 secretion. Compound C (inhibitor of AMPK) also inhibited berberine-mediated GLP-1 secretion. But only low concentrations of H89 (inhibitor of PKA) showed inhibitory effects on berberine-mediated GLP-1 release. The present results demonstrated that berberine showed its modulation on GLP-1 via promoting GLP-1 secretion and GLP-1 biosynthesis. Some signal pathways including PKC-dependent pathway were involved in this process. Elucidation of mechanisms controlling berberine-mediated GLP-1 secretion may facilitate the understanding of berberine's antidiabetic effects.



        

Title: Lipase diversity in glacier soil based on analysis of metagenomic DNA fragments and cell culture
Yuhong Z, Shi P, Liu W, Meng K, Bai Y, Wang G, Zhan Z, Yao B
Ref: J Microbiol Biotechnol, 19:888, 2009 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Yuhong_2009_J.Microbiol.Biotechnol_19_888
PubMedSearch: Yuhong 2009 J.Microbiol.Biotechnol 19 888
PubMedID: 19809244

Abstract


Lipase diversity in glacier soil was assessed by culture independent metagenomic DNA fragment screening and confirmed by cell culture experiments. A set of degenerate PCR primers specific for lipases of the hormone-sensitive lipase family was designed based on conserved motifs and used to directly PCR amplify metagenomic DNA from glacier soil. These products were used to construct a lipase fragment clone library. Among the 300 clones sequenced for the analysis, 201 clones encoding partial lipases shared 51-82%identity to known lipases in GenBank. Based on a phylogenetic analysis, five divergent clusters were established, one of which may represent a previously unidentified lipase subfamily. In the culture study, 11 lipase-producing bacteria were selectively isolated and characterized by 16S rDNA sequences. Using the above mentioned degenerate primers, seven lipase gene fragments were cloned, but not all of them could be accounted for by the clones in the library. Two full-length lipase genes obtained by TAIL-PCR were expressed in Pichia pastoris and characterized. Both were authentic lipases with optimum temperatures of



        

Title: The neuronal Kv4 channel complex
Covarrubias M, Bhattacharji A, De Santiago-Castillo JA, Dougherty K, Kaulin YA, Na-Phuket TR, Wang G
Ref: Neurochem Res, 33:1558, 2008 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Covarrubias_2008_Neurochem.Res_33_1558
PubMedSearch: Covarrubias 2008 Neurochem.Res 33 1558
PubMedID: 18357523

Abstract

Kv4 channel complexes mediate the neuronal somatodendritic A-type K(+) current (I(SA)), which plays pivotal roles in dendritic signal integration. These complexes are composed of pore-forming voltage-gated alpha-subunits (Shal/Kv4) and at least two classes of auxiliary beta-subunits: KChIPs (K(+)-Channel-Interacting-Proteins) and DPLPs (Dipeptidyl-Peptidase-Like-Proteins). Here, we review our investigations of Kv4 gating mechanisms and functional remodeling by specific auxiliary beta-subunits. Namely, we have concluded that: (1) the Kv4 channel complex employs novel alternative mechanisms of closed-state inactivation; (2) the intracellular Zn(2+) site in the T1 domain undergoes a conformational change tightly coupled to voltage-dependent gating and is targeted by nitrosative modulation; and (3) discrete and specific interactions mediate the effects of KChIPs and DPLPs on activation, inactivation and permeation of Kv4 channels. These studies are shedding new light on the molecular bases of I(SA) function and regulation.



        

Title: The complete genome sequence and analysis of the human pathogen Campylobacter lari
Miller WG, Wang G, Binnewies TT, Parker CT
Ref: Foodborne Pathog Dis, 5:371, 2008 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Miller_2008_Foodborne.Pathog.Dis_5_371
PubMedSearch: Miller 2008 Foodborne.Pathog.Dis 5 371
PubMedID: 18713059
Gene_locus related to this paper: camlr-b9kdr3

Abstract

Campylobacter lari is a member of the epsilon subdivision of the Proteobacteria and is part of the thermotolerant Campylobacter group, a clade that includes the human pathogen C. jejuni. Here we present the complete genome sequence of the human clinical isolate, C. lari RM2100. The genome of strain RM2100 is approximately 1.53 Mb and includes the 46 kb megaplasmid pCL2100. Also present within the strain RM2100 genome is a 36 kb putative prophage, termed CLIE1, which is similar to CJIE4, a putative prophage present within the C. jejuni RM1221 genome. Nearly all (90%) of the gene content in strain RM2100 is similar to genes present in the genomes of other characterized thermotolerant campylobacters. However, several genes involved in amino acid biosynthesis and energy metabolism, identified previously in other Campylobacter genomes, are absent from the C. lari RM2100 genome. Therefore, C. lari RM2100 is predicted to be multiply auxotrophic, unable to synthesize eight different amino acids, acetyl-coA, and pantothenate. Additionally, strain RM2100 does not contain a complete TCA cycle and is missing the CydAB terminal oxidase of the respiratory chain. Defects in the amino acid biosynthetic pathways in this organism could be potentially compensated by the large number of encoded peptidases. Nevertheless, the apparent absence of certain key enzymatic functions in strain RM2100 would be expected to have an impact on C. lari biology. It is also possible that the reduction in the C. lari metabolic machinery is related to its environmental range and host preference.



        

Title: Carboxylesterase 2 is downregulated in colorectal cancer following progression of the disease
Tang X, Wu H, Wu Z, Wang G, Wang Z, Zhu D
Ref: Cancer Invest, 26:178, 2008 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Tang_2008_Cancer.Invest_26_178
PubMedSearch: Tang 2008 Cancer.Invest 26 178
PubMedID: 18259949

Abstract

Expression of carboxylesterase 2 in colorectal tumor tissues and serum carboxylesterase 2 levels at different stages of the disease were investigated by Western blotting. Carboxylesterase 2 was decreasing in tumor tissues from TNM stages 0 through IV (n = 20); the expression of carboxylesterase 2 was similar between "normal" and tumor tissues (n = 20); serum carboxylesterase 2 levels were similar among patients at different stages of the disease. These results indicate that local expression of carboxylesterase 2 is downregulated following progression of the disease; carboxylesterase 2 expression is altered in histology "normal" tissues from stages I through IV before histopathological changes.



        

Title: The genome of a lepidopteran model insect, the silkworm Bombyx mori
Xia Q, Wang J, Zhou Z, Li R, Fan W, Cheng D, Cheng T, Qin J, Duana J and Morishita S <88 more author(s)> Xia Q, Wang J, Zhou Z, Li R, Fan W, Cheng D, Cheng T, Qin J, Duana J, Xu H, Li Q, Li N, Wang M, Dai F, Liu C, Lin Y, Zhao P, Zhang H, Liu S, Zha X, Li C, Zhao A, Pan M, Pan G, Shen Y, Gao Z, Wang Z, Wang G, Wu Z, Hou Y, Chai C, Yu Q, He N, Zhang Z, Li S, Yang H, Lu C, Xiang Z, Mita K, Kasahara M, Nakatani Y, Yamamoto K, Abe H, Ahsan B, Daimoni T, Doi K, Fujii T, Fujiwara H, Fujiyama A, Futahashi R, Hashimotol S, Ishibashi J, Iwami M, Kadono-Okuda K, Kanamori H, Kataoka H, Katsuma S, Kawaoka S, Kawasaki H, Kohara Y, Kozaki T, Kuroshu RM, Kuwazaki S, Matsushima K, Minami H, Nagayasu Y, Nakagawa T, Narukawa J, Nohata J, Ohishi K, Ono Y, Osanai-Futahashi M, Ozaki K, Qu W, Roller L, Sasaki S, Sasaki T, Seino A, Shimomura M, Shin-I T, Shinoda T, Shiotsuki T, Suetsugu Y, Sugano S, Suwa M, Suzuki Y, Takiya S, Tamura T, Tanaka H, Tanaka Y, Touhara K, Yamada T, Yamakawa M, Yamanaka N, Yoshikawa H, Zhong YS, Shimada T, Morishita S (- 88)
Ref: Insect Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, 38:1036, 2008 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Xia_2008_Insect.Biochem.Mol.Biol_38_1036
PubMedSearch: Xia 2008 Insect.Biochem.Mol.Biol 38 1036
PubMedID: 19121390
Gene_locus related to this paper: bommo-a0mnw6, bommo-a1yw85, bommo-a9ls22, bommo-ACHE1, bommo-ACHE2, bommo-b0fgv8, bommo-b1q137, bommo-b1q139, bommo-b1q140, bommo-b1q141, bommo-b2zdz0, bommo-b3gef6, bommo-b3gef7, bommo-b3gs55, bommo-b3gs56, bommo-d2ktu3, bommo-d2ktu5, bommo-d9ile0, bommo-e1cga5, bommo-e1cga6, bommo-g8fpz6, bommo-h9iu43, bommo-h9iu46, bommo-h9iu47.1, bommo-h9iu47.2, bommo-h9iue5, bommo-h9ivg2, bommo-h9iwj7, bommo-h9iwj8, bommo-h9ix58, bommo-h9ixi1.1, bommo-h9ixi1.2, bommo-h9iy47, bommo-h9izw1, bommo-h9j0s4, bommo-h9j1y0, bommo-h9j3r0, bommo-h9j3w6, bommo-h9j3w7, bommo-h9j5t0, bommo-h9j8g3, bommo-h9j9k9, bommo-h9j066, bommo-h9j067, bommo-h9j593, bommo-h9j594, bommo-h9j990, bommo-h9jde8, bommo-h9jde9, bommo-h9jdf0, bommo-h9jds4, bommo-h9jle7, bommo-h9jn83, bommo-h9jn85, bommo-h9jrg2, bommo-h9jyh9, bommo-JHE, bommo-m1rmh6, bommo-q1hq05, bommo-q4tte1, bommo-h9j592, bommo-h9j604, bommo-h9jpm8, bommo-h9iss4, bommo-h9j2c7

Abstract

Bombyx mori, the domesticated silkworm, is a major insect model for research, and the first lepidopteran for which draft genome sequences became available in 2004. Two independent data sets from whole-genome shotgun sequencing were merged and assembled together with newly obtained fosmid- and BAC-end sequences. The remarkably improved new assembly is presented here. The 8.5-fold sequence coverage of an estimated 432 Mb genome was assembled into scaffolds with an N50 size of approximately 3.7 Mb; the largest scaffold was 14.5 million base pairs. With help of a high-density SNP linkage map, we anchored 87% of the scaffold sequences to all 28 chromosomes. A particular feature was the high repetitive sequence content estimated to be 43.6% and that consisted mainly of transposable elements. We predicted 14,623 gene models based on a GLEAN-based algorithm, a more accurate prediction than the previous gene models for this species. Over three thousand silkworm genes have no homologs in other insect or vertebrate genomes. Some insights into gene evolution and into characteristic biological processes are presented here and in other papers in this issue. The massive silk production correlates with the existence of specific tRNA clusters, and of several sericin genes assembled in a cluster. The silkworm's adaptation to feeding on mulberry leaves, which contain toxic alkaloids, is likely linked to the presence of new-type sucrase genes, apparently acquired from bacteria. The silkworm genome also revealed the cascade of genes involved in the juvenile hormone biosynthesis pathway, and a large number of cuticular protein genes.



        

Title: [Effects of huperzine A on cognitive function of rats recovering from general anesthesia]
Zhang SQ, Wang G, Luo GJ, Zhan H, Chen HW
Ref: Nan Fang Yi Ke Da Xue Xue Bao, 28:225, 2008 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zhang_2008_Nan.Fang.Yi.Ke.Da.Xue.Xue.Bao_28_225
PubMedSearch: Zhang 2008 Nan.Fang.Yi.Ke.Da.Xue.Xue.Bao 28 225
PubMedID: 18250048

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of huperzine A on the cognitive function of rats recovering from general anesthesia and discuss its possible mechanism.
METHODS: Sixty rats (20 to 23 weeks old) were subjected to spatial reference memory version of navigation task, in which the rats were expected to locate the escape platform in water. Two sessions of training were given daily for 5 days, and on the 5th day, the escape latencies of the rats were recorded. The rats were then divided randomly into 5 groups (n=12), and in 4 of the groups, the rats received an intraperitoneal injection of diprivan (Dip) at 2 mg/kg and after recovery of righting reflex, huperzine A was given at 0.05 mg/kg (group L), 0.1 mg/kg (group M), 0.2 mg/kg (group H), and in group C, no subsequent huperzine A was given; in group E, the rats received normal saline injection only. One hour after righting reflex recovery, the escape latencies of all the rats were recorded again, and the level of AChE expression in the forebrain cortex was measured quantitatively.
RESULTS: The escape latencies after righting reflex recovery was significantly longer than that on day 5 (P<0.05), and the rats in group H had the shortest escape latency among the groups (P<0.05). The average gray scale of AChE in the forebrain of rats in group H was significantly lower than that of the other groups (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Huperzine A can inhibit cholinesterase in the brain to improve the cognitive function of rats recovering from general anesthesia.



        

Title: Diagnosis and surgical treatment of isolated hypoganglionosis
Zhang HY, Feng JX, Huang L, Wang G, Wei MF, Weng YZ
Ref: World J Pediatr, 4:295, 2008 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Zhang_2008_World.J.Pediatr_4_295
PubMedSearch: Zhang 2008 World.J.Pediatr 4 295
PubMedID: 19104894

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Some patients suspected with Hirschsprung's disease (HD), however, were diagnosed as having isolated hypoganglionosis according to the updated pathohistologic methods. This study was undertaken to investigate the diagnostic methods and the therapeutic results of isolated hypoganglionosis in children. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was made on 17 patients with isolated hypoganglionosis (hypoganglionosis group) identified pathologically after operation. The data included clinical presentations, barium enema, anorectal manometry, histochemical staining for acetylcholinesterase (AChE) before operation, histological results after operation and follow-up outcomes. The data of hypoganglionosis with HD (HD group) were compared retrospectively. RESULTS: Common complaint of the patients with hypoganglionosis and HD was intractable constipation. Barium enema showed typical narrowing and distended segment of the colon in 9 patients in the hypoganglionosis group (9/16) and in 15 patients in the HD group (15/18). In the hypoganglionosis group, in 15 patients who underwent anorectal manometry only 5 showed absent rectal anal inhibitory reflex, significantly lower than the rate in the HD group (17/18) (P<0.05). From 16 patients in hypoganglionosis group, positive staining for AChE was noted in 3 patients (3/16, 18.8%), significantly lower than that in the HD group (16/18, 88.9%) (P<0.05). Thirteen patients in the hypoganglionosis group received subtotal colectomy, while only 5 patients needed subtotal colectomy in the HD group. In the hypoganglionosis group, except 2 patients who suffered from mild enterocolitis after operation and recovered after conservative therapy, all patients recovered uneventfully without wound dehiscence, intestinal fistula, fecal incontinence or constipation recurrence. In the HD group, one patient suffered from anastomotic leak and got secondary operation, one patient had anastomotic stricture at 1 year after operation and recovered by dilatation, and other three patients suffered from mild enterocolitis after operation and recovered after conservative therapy. CONCLUSIONS: Hypoganglionosis is a common disease, and could be finally confirmed by full-thickness biopsies in different bowel segments. The resection range can be estimated according to barium enema and 24-hour delayed X-ray findings, by which the satisfactory result in short-term follow-up can be obtained.



        

Title: A novel method for purifying recombinant human host defense cathelicidin LL-37 by utilizing its inherent property of aggregation
Li Y, Li X, Li H, Lockridge O, Wang G
Ref: Protein Expr Purif, 54:157, 2007 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Li_2007_Protein.Expr.Purif_54_157
PubMedSearch: Li 2007 Protein.Expr.Purif 54 157
PubMedID: 17382559

Abstract

The importance of human LL-37 in host defense and innate immunity is well appreciated as reflected by an exponential increase of relevant literature in Pub-Med. Although several articles reported the expression and purification of this cathelicidin, some protocols suffered from low efficiency in enzyme cleavage of fusion proteins due to aggregation and poor separation of recombinant LL-37 from the carrier protein on reverse-phase HPLC. We present a new method for purifying LL-37 that avoids both problems. In this method, the fusion protein (a tetramer) purified by metal affinity chromatography was readily cleaved at a thrombin site 30-residue upstream of the LL-37 sequence. The released LL-37-containing fragment formed a large soluble aggregate (approximately 95 kDa) at pH approximately 7, allowing a rapid and clean separation from the carrier thioredoxin (approximately 14 kDa) by size-exclusion chromatography. Recombinant LL-37 was released from the isolated aggregate by chemical cleavage in 50% formic acid at 50 degrees C for 32 h. Due to a dramatic difference in retention time, recombinant LL-37 was well resolved from the S-Tag-containing peptide by RP-HPLC. Compared to previous procedures, the new method involves fewer steps and is highly reproducible. It increases peptide yield by 53%. NMR data support the aggregation of LL-37 into a tetramer with increase of pH as well as the feasibility of structural studies of an isotope-labeled antimicrobial peptide in the lipid micelle of dioctanoyl phosphatidylglycerol (D8PG) for the first time.



        

Title: The complete genome sequence and analysis of the epsilonproteobacterium Arcobacter butzleri
Miller WG, Parker CT, Rubenfield M, Mendz GL, Wosten MM, Ussery DW, Stolz JF, Binnewies TT, Hallin PF and Mandrell RE <4 more author(s)> Miller WG, Parker CT, Rubenfield M, Mendz GL, Wosten MM, Ussery DW, Stolz JF, Binnewies TT, Hallin PF, Wang G, Malek JA, Rogosin A, Stanker LH, Mandrell RE (- 4)
Ref: PLoS ONE, 2:e1358, 2007 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Miller_2007_PLoS.ONE_2_E1358
PubMedSearch: Miller 2007 PLoS.ONE 2 E1358
PubMedID: 18159241
Gene_locus related to this paper: arcb4-a8esr8, arcb4-a8ety0, arcb4-a8euk7, 9prot-e6l4v2, 9prot-a0a0g9kwp1

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Arcobacter butzleri is a member of the epsilon subdivision of the Proteobacteria and a close taxonomic relative of established pathogens, such as Campylobacter jejuni and Helicobacter pylori. Here we present the complete genome sequence of the human clinical isolate, A. butzleri strain RM4018. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS: Arcobacter butzleri is a member of the Campylobacteraceae, but the majority of its proteome is most similar to those of Sulfuromonas denitrificans and Wolinella succinogenes, both members of the Helicobacteraceae, and those of the deep-sea vent Epsilonproteobacteria Sulfurovum and Nitratiruptor. In addition, many of the genes and pathways described here, e.g. those involved in signal transduction and sulfur metabolism, have been identified previously within the epsilon subdivision only in S. denitrificans, W. succinogenes, Sulfurovum, and/or Nitratiruptor, or are unique to the subdivision. In addition, the analyses indicated also that a substantial proportion of the A. butzleri genome is devoted to growth and survival under diverse environmental conditions, with a large number of respiration-associated proteins, signal transduction and chemotaxis proteins and proteins involved in DNA repair and adaptation. To investigate the genomic diversity of A. butzleri strains, we constructed an A. butzleri DNA microarray comprising 2238 genes from strain RM4018. Comparative genomic indexing analysis of 12 additional A. butzleri strains identified both the core genes of A. butzleri and intraspecies hypervariable regions, where <70% of the genes were present in at least two strains. CONCLUSION/SIGNIFICANCE: The presence of pathways and loci associated often with non-host-associated organisms, as well as genes associated with virulence, suggests that A. butzleri is a free-living, water-borne organism that might be classified rightfully as an emerging pathogen. The genome sequence and analyses presented in this study are an important first step in understanding the physiology and genetics of this organism, which constitutes a bridge between the environment and mammalian hosts.



        

Title: Response to pioglitazone treatment is associated with the lipoprotein lipase S447X variant in subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Wang G, Wang X, Zhang Q, Ma Z
Ref: Int J Clin Pract, 61:552, 2007 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2007_Int.J.Clin.Pract_61_552
PubMedSearch: Wang 2007 Int.J.Clin.Pract 61 552
PubMedID: 17394430

Abstract

To investigate the influence of the S447X variant in lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene on the response rate to therapy with the thiazolidinedione pioglitazone. A total of 113 diabetic patients were treated with pioglitazone 30 mg for 10 weeks. Response to the pioglitazone treatment was defined by either a >10% relative reduction in fasting blood glucose (FBG) or a more than 1% decrease in glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c) values after 10 weeks of pioglitazone treatment. The genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Using the criteria >10% relative reduction in FBG after 10 weeks of pioglitaone treatment, responder frequency to pioglitazone treatment in S447S genotype group is significantly higher than S447X genotype group. Meanwhile, the S447X genotype conferred a statistically significant 0.538-fold reduction in response rate to pioglitazone treatment relative to the S447S genotype. Moreover, pioglitazone treatment has significantly beneficial effects on serum lipid profile and blood pressure in S447S genotype carriers. The S447X variant in LPL gene may be a cause for therapy modification by pioglitazone.



        

Title: Quantitative phosphoproteomics of vasopressin-sensitive renal cells: regulation of aquaporin-2 phosphorylation at two sites
Hoffert JD, Pisitkun T, Wang G, Shen RF, Knepper MA
Ref: Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A, 103:7159, 2006 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Hoffert_2006_Proc.Natl.Acad.Sci.U.S.A_103_7159
PubMedSearch: Hoffert 2006 Proc.Natl.Acad.Sci.U.S.A 103 7159
PubMedID: 16641100
Gene_locus related to this paper: rat-d4a1b6

Abstract

Protein phosphorylation plays a key role in vasopressin signaling in the renal-collecting duct. Large-scale identification and quantification of phosphorylation events triggered by vasopressin is desirable to gain a comprehensive systems-level understanding of this process. We carried out phosphoproteomic analysis of rat inner medullary collecting duct cells by using a combination of phosphopeptide enrichment by immobilized metal affinity chromatography and phosphorylation site identification by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(n) neutral loss scanning. A total of 714 phosphorylation sites on 223 unique phosphoproteins were identified from inner medullary collecting duct samples treated short-term with either calyculin A or vasopressin. A number of proteins involved in cytoskeletal reorganization, vesicle trafficking, and transcriptional regulation were identified. Previously unidentified phosphorylation sites were found for membrane proteins essential to collecting duct physiology, including eight sites among aquaporin-2 (AQP2), aquaporin-4, and urea transporter isoforms A1 and A3. Through label-free quantification of phosphopeptides, we identified a number of proteins that significantly changed phosphorylation state in response to short-term vasopressin treatment: AQP2, Bclaf1, LRRC47, Rgl3, and SAFB2. In the presence of vasopressin, AQP2 monophosphorylated at S256 and diphosphorylated AQP2 (pS256/261) increased in abundance, whereas AQP2 monophosphorylated at S261 decreased, raising the possibility that both sites are involved in vasopressin-dependent AQP2 trafficking. This study reveals the practicality of liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(n) neutral loss scanning for large-scale identification and quantification of protein phosphorylation in the analysis of cell signaling in a native mammalian system.



        

Title: Cloning and expression of a novel lipase gene from Pseudomonas fluorescens B52
Jiang Z, Zheng Y, Luo Y, Wang G, Wang H, Ma Y, Wei D
Ref: Mol Biotechnol, 31:95, 2005 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Jiang_2005_Mol.Biotechnol_31_95
PubMedSearch: Jiang 2005 Mol.Biotechnol 31 95
PubMedID: 16170209
Gene_locus related to this paper: psefl-q6gx93

Abstract

A novel lipase gene (lipB52) was isolated directly from the genomic DNA of Pseudomonas fluorescens B52 with the genome-walking method, an effective method for isolating lipase gene from bacteria. There was an open reading frame (ORF) of 1854 bp, which encoded 617 amino acids. The lipase gene (lipB52) was cloned into expression vector pPIC9K and successfully integrated into a heterologous fungal host, Pichia pastoris KM71, and the recombinant Pichia pastoris were screened with a high throughput method. The recombinant was induced by methanol to secrete active lipase into the culture medium. The recombinant lipase LipB52 was also purified and characterized. The optimum temperature for the purified lipase LipB52 was 40 degrees C at pH 8.0. It exhibited better thermostability and pH stability than its homologs.



        

Title: Crystal Structure of an Acylpeptide Hydrolase/Esterase from Aeropyrum pernix K1.
Bartlam M, Wang G, Yang H, Gao R, Zhao X, Xie G, Cao S, Feng Y, Rao Z
Ref: Structure(Camb), 12:1481, 2004 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Bartlam_2004_Structure.(Camb)_12_1481
PubMedSearch: Bartlam 2004 Structure.(Camb) 12 1481
PubMedID: 15296741
Gene_locus related to this paper: aerpe-APE1547

Abstract

Acylpeptide hydrolases (APH; also known as acylamino acid releasing enzyme) catalyze the removal of an N-acylated amino acid from blocked peptides. The crystal structure of an APH from the thermophilic archaeon Aeropyrum pernix K1 to 2.1 A resolution confirms it to be a member of the prolyl oligopeptidase family of serine proteases. The structure of apAPH is a symmetric homodimer with each subunit comprised of two domains. The N-terminal domain is a regular seven-bladed beta-propeller, while the C-terminal domain has a canonical alpha/beta hydrolase fold and includes the active site and a conserved Ser445-Asp524-His556 catalytic triad. The complex structure of apAPH with an organophosphorus substrate, p-nitrophenyl phosphate, has also been determined. The complex structure unambiguously maps out the substrate binding pocket and provides a basis for substrate recognition by apAPH. A conserved mechanism for protein degradation from archaea to mammals is suggested by the structural features of apAPH.



        

Title: A comparison of whole-genome shotgun-derived mouse chromosome 16 and the human genome
Mural RJ, Adams MD, Myers EW, Smith HO, Miklos GL, Wides R, Halpern A, Li PW, Sutton GG and Stephenson LD <169 more author(s)> Mural RJ, Adams MD, Myers EW, Smith HO, Miklos GL, Wides R, Halpern A, Li PW, Sutton GG, Nadeau J, Salzberg SL, Holt RA, Kodira CD, Lu F, Chen L, Deng Z, Evangelista CC, Gan W, Heiman TJ, Li J, Li Z, Merkulov GV, Milshina NV, Naik AK, Qi R, Shue BC, Wang A, Wang J, Wang X, Yan X, Ye J, Yooseph S, Zhao Q, Zheng L, Zhu SC, Biddick K, Bolanos R, Delcher AL, Dew IM, Fasulo D, Flanigan MJ, Huson DH, Kravitz SA, Miller JR, Mobarry CM, Reinert K, Remington KA, Zhang Q, Zheng XH, Nusskern DR, Lai Z, Lei Y, Zhong W, Yao A, Guan P, Ji RR, Gu Z, Wang ZY, Zhong F, Xiao C, Chiang CC, Yandell M, Wortman JR, Amanatides PG, Hladun SL, Pratts EC, Johnson JE, Dodson KL, Woodford KJ, Evans CA, Gropman B, Rusch DB, Venter E, Wang M, Smith TJ, Houck JT, Tompkins DE, Haynes C, Jacob D, Chin SH, Allen DR, Dahlke CE, Sanders R, Li K, Liu X, Levitsky AA, Majoros WH, Chen Q, Xia AC, Lopez JR, Donnelly MT, Newman MH, Glodek A, Kraft CL, Nodell M, Ali F, An HJ, Baldwin-Pitts D, Beeson KY, Cai S, Carnes M, Carver A, Caulk PM, Center A, Chen YH, Cheng ML, Coyne MD, Crowder M, Danaher S, Davenport LB, Desilets R, Dietz SM, Doup L, Dullaghan P, Ferriera S, Fosler CR, Gire HC, Gluecksmann A, Gocayne JD, Gray J, Hart B, Haynes J, Hoover J, Howland T, Ibegwam C, Jalali M, Johns D, Kline L, Ma DS, MacCawley S, Magoon A, Mann F, May D, McIntosh TC, Mehta S, Moy L, Moy MC, Murphy BJ, Murphy SD, Nelson KA, Nuri Z, Parker KA, Prudhomme AC, Puri VN, Qureshi H, Raley JC, Reardon MS, Regier MA, Rogers YH, Romblad DL, Schutz J, Scott JL, Scott R, Sitter CD, Smallwood M, Sprague AC, Stewart E, Strong RV, Suh E, Sylvester K, Thomas R, Tint NN, Tsonis C, Wang G, Williams MS, Williams SM, Windsor SM, Wolfe K, Wu MM, Zaveri J, Chaturvedi K, Gabrielian AE, Ke Z, Sun J, Subramanian G, Venter JC, Pfannkoch CM, Barnstead M, Stephenson LD (- 169)
Ref: Science, 296:1661, 2002 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Mural_2002_Science_296_1661
PubMedSearch: Mural 2002 Science 296 1661
PubMedID: 12040188
Gene_locus related to this paper: mouse-ABH15, mouse-Ces3b, mouse-Ces4a, mouse-dpp4, mouse-FAP, mouse-Lipg, mouse-Q8C1A9, mouse-rbbp9, mouse-SERHL, mouse-SPG21, mouse-w4vsp6

Abstract

The high degree of similarity between the mouse and human genomes is demonstrated through analysis of the sequence of mouse chromosome 16 (Mmu 16), which was obtained as part of a whole-genome shotgun assembly of the mouse genome. The mouse genome is about 10% smaller than the human genome, owing to a lower repetitive DNA content. Comparison of the structure and protein-coding potential of Mmu 16 with that of the homologous segments of the human genome identifies regions of conserved synteny with human chromosomes (Hsa) 3, 8, 12, 16, 21, and 22. Gene content and order are highly conserved between Mmu 16 and the syntenic blocks of the human genome. Of the 731 predicted genes on Mmu 16, 509 align with orthologs on the corresponding portions of the human genome, 44 are likely paralogous to these genes, and 164 genes have homologs elsewhere in the human genome; there are 14 genes for which we could find no human counterpart.



        

Title: Crystallization and preliminary crystallographic analysis of acylamino-acid releasing enzyme from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Aeropyrum pernix
Wang G, Gao R, Ding Y, Yang H, Cao S, Feng Y, Rao Z
Ref: Acta Crystallographica D Biol Crystallogr, 58:1054, 2002 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2002_Acta.Crystallogr.D.Biol.Crystallogr_58_1054
PubMedSearch: Wang 2002 Acta.Crystallogr.D.Biol.Crystallogr 58 1054
PubMedID: 12037315
Gene_locus related to this paper: aerpe-APE1547

Abstract

Crystals of acylamino-acid releasing enzyme from the hyperthermophilic archaeon Aeropyrum pernix strain K1 have been grown at 291 K using ammonium phosphate as a precipitant. The diffraction pattern of the crystal extends to 2.4 A resolution at 100 K using Cu Kalpha radiation. The crystal belongs to space group P1, with unit-cell parameters a = 107.5, b = 109.9, c = 119.4 A, alpha = 108.1, beta = 109.8, gamma = 91.9 degrees. The presence of eight molecules per asymmetric unit gives a crystal volume per protein mass (V(M)) of 2.4 A(3) Da(-1) and a solvent content of 48% by volume. A full set of X-ray diffraction data was collected to 2.9 A from the native crystal.



        

Title: The sequence of the human genome
Venter JC, Adams MD, Myers EW, Li PW, Mural RJ, Sutton GG, Smith HO, Yandell M, Evans CA and Zhu X <264 more author(s)> Venter JC, Adams MD, Myers EW, Li PW, Mural RJ, Sutton GG, Smith HO, Yandell M, Evans CA, Holt RA, Gocayne JD, Amanatides P, Ballew RM, Huson DH, Wortman JR, Zhang Q, Kodira CD, Zheng XH, Chen L, Skupski M, Subramanian G, Thomas PD, Zhang J, Gabor Miklos GL, Nelson C, Broder S, Clark AG, Nadeau J, McKusick VA, Zinder N, Levine AJ, Roberts RJ, Simon M, Slayman C, Hunkapiller M, Bolanos R, Delcher A, Dew I, Fasulo D, Flanigan M, Florea L, Halpern A, Hannenhalli S, Kravitz S, Levy S, Mobarry C, Reinert K, Remington K, Abu-Threideh J, Beasley E, Biddick K, Bonazzi V, Brandon R, Cargill M, Chandramouliswaran I, Charlab R, Chaturvedi K, Deng Z, Di Francesco V, Dunn P, Eilbeck K, Evangelista C, Gabrielian AE, Gan W, Ge W, Gong F, Gu Z, Guan P, Heiman TJ, Higgins ME, Ji RR, Ke Z, Ketchum KA, Lai Z, Lei Y, Li Z, Li J, Liang Y, Lin X, Lu F, Merkulov GV, Milshina N, Moore HM, Naik AK, Narayan VA, Neelam B, Nusskern D, Rusch DB, Salzberg S, Shao W, Shue B, Sun J, Wang Z, Wang A, Wang X, Wang J, Wei M, Wides R, Xiao C, Yan C, Yao A, Ye J, Zhan M, Zhang W, Zhang H, Zhao Q, Zheng L, Zhong F, Zhong W, Zhu S, Zhao S, Gilbert D, Baumhueter S, Spier G, Carter C, Cravchik A, Woodage T, Ali F, An H, Awe A, Baldwin D, Baden H, Barnstead M, Barrow I, Beeson K, Busam D, Carver A, Center A, Cheng ML, Curry L, Danaher S, Davenport L, Desilets R, Dietz S, Dodson K, Doup L, Ferriera S, Garg N, Gluecksmann A, Hart B, Haynes J, Haynes C, Heiner C, Hladun S, Hostin D, Houck J, Howland T, Ibegwam C, Johnson J, Kalush F, Kline L, Koduru S, Love A, Mann F, May D, McCawley S, McIntosh T, McMullen I, Moy M, Moy L, Murphy B, Nelson K, Pfannkoch C, Pratts E, Puri V, Qureshi H, Reardon M, Rodriguez R, Rogers YH, Romblad D, Ruhfel B, Scott R, Sitter C, Smallwood M, Stewart E, Strong R, Suh E, Thomas R, Tint NN, Tse S, Vech C, Wang G, Wetter J, Williams S, Williams M, Windsor S, Winn-Deen E, Wolfe K, Zaveri J, Zaveri K, Abril JF, Guigo R, Campbell MJ, Sjolander KV, Karlak B, Kejariwal A, Mi H, Lazareva B, Hatton T, Narechania A, Diemer K, Muruganujan A, Guo N, Sato S, Bafna V, Istrail S, Lippert R, Schwartz R, Walenz B, Yooseph S, Allen D, Basu A, Baxendale J, Blick L, Caminha M, Carnes-Stine J, Caulk P, Chiang YH, Coyne M, Dahlke C, Mays A, Dombroski M, Donnelly M, Ely D, Esparham S, Fosler C, Gire H, Glanowski S, Glasser K, Glodek A, Gorokhov M, Graham K, Gropman B, Harris M, Heil J, Henderson S, Hoover J, Jennings D, Jordan C, Jordan J, Kasha J, Kagan L, Kraft C, Levitsky A, Lewis M, Liu X, Lopez J, Ma D, Majoros W, McDaniel J, Murphy S, Newman M, Nguyen T, Nguyen N, Nodell M, Pan S, Peck J, Peterson M, Rowe W, Sanders R, Scott J, Simpson M, Smith T, Sprague A, Stockwell T, Turner R, Venter E, Wang M, Wen M, Wu D, Wu M, Xia A, Zandieh A, Zhu X (- 264)
Ref: Science, 291:1304, 2001 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Venter_2001_Science_291_1304
PubMedSearch: Venter 2001 Science 291 1304
PubMedID: 11181995
Gene_locus related to this paper: human-AADAC, human-ABHD1, human-ABHD10, human-ABHD11, human-ACHE, human-BCHE, human-LDAH, human-ABHD18, human-CMBL, human-ABHD17A, human-KANSL3, human-LIPA, human-LYPLAL1, human-NDRG2, human-NLGN3, human-NLGN4X, human-NLGN4Y, human-PAFAH2, human-PREPL, human-RBBP9, human-SPG21

Abstract

A 2.91-billion base pair (bp) consensus sequence of the euchromatic portion of the human genome was generated by the whole-genome shotgun sequencing method. The 14.8-billion bp DNA sequence was generated over 9 months from 27,271,853 high-quality sequence reads (5.11-fold coverage of the genome) from both ends of plasmid clones made from the DNA of five individuals. Two assembly strategies-a whole-genome assembly and a regional chromosome assembly-were used, each combining sequence data from Celera and the publicly funded genome effort. The public data were shredded into 550-bp segments to create a 2.9-fold coverage of those genome regions that had been sequenced, without including biases inherent in the cloning and assembly procedure used by the publicly funded group. This brought the effective coverage in the assemblies to eightfold, reducing the number and size of gaps in the final assembly over what would be obtained with 5.11-fold coverage. The two assembly strategies yielded very similar results that largely agree with independent mapping data. The assemblies effectively cover the euchromatic regions of the human chromosomes. More than 90% of the genome is in scaffold assemblies of 100,000 bp or more, and 25% of the genome is in scaffolds of 10 million bp or larger. Analysis of the genome sequence revealed 26,588 protein-encoding transcripts for which there was strong corroborating evidence and an additional approximately 12,000 computationally derived genes with mouse matches or other weak supporting evidence. Although gene-dense clusters are obvious, almost half the genes are dispersed in low G+C sequence separated by large tracts of apparently noncoding sequence. Only 1.1% of the genome is spanned by exons, whereas 24% is in introns, with 75% of the genome being intergenic DNA. Duplications of segmental blocks, ranging in size up to chromosomal lengths, are abundant throughout the genome and reveal a complex evolutionary history. Comparative genomic analysis indicates vertebrate expansions of genes associated with neuronal function, with tissue-specific developmental regulation, and with the hemostasis and immune systems. DNA sequence comparisons between the consensus sequence and publicly funded genome data provided locations of 2.1 million single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). A random pair of human haploid genomes differed at a rate of 1 bp per 1250 on average, but there was marked heterogeneity in the level of polymorphism across the genome. Less than 1% of all SNPs resulted in variation in proteins, but the task of determining which SNPs have functional consequences remains an open challenge.



        

Title: Concurrent quantification of tremor and depression of locomotor activity induced in rats by harmaline and physostigmine
Wang G, Fowler SC
Ref: Psychopharmacology (Berl), 158:273, 2001 : PubMed
Abstract


ESTHER: Wang_2001_Psychopharmacology.(Berl)_158_273
PubMedSearch: Wang 2001 Psychopharmacology.(Berl) 158 273
PubMedID: 11713617

Abstract

RATIONALE: Both harmaline and physostigmine are known to produce whole-body tremors in rodents, yet there is little quantitative information on the differential frequency characteristics of these tremors or on other possible motor effects of these drugs. In addition, the degree to which tolerance develops to their tremorogenic effects is uncertain. OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this work was to use a new kind of instrument (the force-plate actometer) to describe quantitatively the frequency characteristics of tremor induced by the two drugs and simultaneously to measure locomotor activity effects. Another aim was to detect any tolerance effects on the tremor or locomotor measurements.
METHODS: Sprague-Dawley rats in four separate groups received harmaline (0, 4.0, 8.0, and 16.0 mg/kg) while another four groups received physostigmine (0, 0.10, 0.25, and 0.50 mg/kg). Dosing continued for 4 consecutive days. Each day, every rat's whole-body tremor and locomotor activity were recorded for 30 min. Fourier analysis of the force-plate recordings was used to quantify tremor and characterize its frequency components.
RESULTS: Harmaline induced a dose-related tremor that peaked in the 10 Hz region of the spectrum, while the dose related-tremor of physostigmine was demonstrably of a broader-band frequency composition. While harmaline tremor exhibited pronounced tolerance, physostigmine tremor remained substantial across the 4 days of dosing. Both drugs suppressed locomotor activity, and there was no tolerance on this measure for either drug.
CONCLUSIONS: In regard to tremor, harmaline and physostigmine induced quantitatively different kinds of tremor, and these differences probably reflect the drugs' different sites of action in the brain (harmaline: inferior olive; physostigmine: basal ganglia). For harmaline, tolerance to the tremorogenic effect was concurrent with a lack of tolerance to locomotor suppression, and this finding suggested the presence of a strong motor effect of harmaline that continued to be expressed despite the absence of tremor.