AIM: To study persistence and replication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients' peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) cultured in vitro. METHODS: Epstein Barr virus (EBV) was used to transform the hepatitis ...AIM: To study persistence and replication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients' peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) cultured in vitro. METHODS: Epstein Barr virus (EBV) was used to transform the hepatitis C virus from a HCV positive patient to permanent lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL). Positive and negative HCV RNA strands of the cultured cells and growth media were detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) each month. Core and NS5 proteins of HCV were further tested using immunohistochemical SP method and in situ RT-PCR. RESULTS: HCV RNA positive strands were consistently detected the cultured cells for one year. The negative-strand RNA in LCL cells and the positive-strand RNA in supernatants were observed intermittently. Immunohistochemical results medicated expression of HCV NS3 and C proteins in LCL cytoplasm mostly. The positive signal of PCR product was dark blue and mainly localized to the LCL cytoplasm. The RT-PCR signal was eliminated by overnight RNase digestion but not DNase digestion. CONCLUSION: HCV may exist and remain functional in a cultured cell line for a long period.展开更多
This editorial provides an in-depth evaluation of the study by Aizimuaji et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology,which investigates the prognostic value of the telomerase ...This editorial provides an in-depth evaluation of the study by Aizimuaji et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology,which investigates the prognostic value of the telomerase reverse transcriptase(TERT)promoter C228T mutation in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).The study highlights the innovative application of optimized digital polymerase chain reaction technology to improve the sensitivity of TERT mutation detection.The results demonstrate that the TERT C228T mutation is significantly associated with reduced overall survival and disease-free survival,identifying it as a potential biomarker for poor prognosis.Additionally,the study successfully developed a nomogram model incorporating TERT mutation status,which significantly enhances the accuracy of postoperative recurrence risk prediction.This editorial further discusses the biological significance of TERT mutations in hepatitis B virus-related HCC,emphasizing their role as an early driver of liver carcinogenesis.While digital polymerase chain reaction offers significant advantages over traditional Sanger sequencing,providing a more precise detection tool for clinical applications,large-scale and multi-center validation is still required for broader clinical adoption.Moreover,the editorial explores the potential of integrating TERT mutation detection with other molecular biomarkers for a more comprehensive approach to personalized treatment,providing valuable insights for future precision therapy in liver cancer.This study not only opens new avenues for individualized treatment and early intervention in HCC but also serves as an important reference for the future development of liver cancer biomarkers.展开更多
Transfection of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase(h TERT)gene has been shown to increase cell proliferation and enhance tissue repair.In the present study,h TERT was transfected into rat Schwann cells.A rat...Transfection of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase(h TERT)gene has been shown to increase cell proliferation and enhance tissue repair.In the present study,h TERT was transfected into rat Schwann cells.A rat model of acute spinal cord injury was established by the modified free-falling method.Retrovirus PLXSN was injected at the site of spinal cord injury as a vector to mediate h TERT gene-transfected Schwann cells(1×10^(10)/L;10μL)or Schwann cells(1×10^(10)/L;10μL)without h TERT gene transfection.Between 1 and 4 weeks after model establishment,motor function of the lower limb improved in the h TERT-transfected group compared with the group with non-transfected Schwann cells.Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated d UTP nick-end labeling and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction results revealed that the number of apoptotic cells,and gene expression of aquaporin 4/9 and matrix metalloproteinase 9/2decreased at the site of injury in both groups;however,the effect improved in the h TERT-transfected group compared with the Schwann cells without h TERT transfection group.Hematoxylin and eosin staining,PKH26 fluorescent labeling,and electrophysiological testing demonstrated that compared with the non-transfected group,spinal cord cavity and motor and sensory evoked potential latencies were reduced,while the number of PKH26-positive cells and the motor and sensory evoked potential amplitude increased at the site of injury in the h TERT-transfected group.These findings suggest that transplantation of h TERT gene-transfected Schwann cells repairs the structure and function of the injured spinal cord.展开更多
Reverse transcriptase (rt) fragments from LINE retrotransposons in the mulberry genome were analyzed in terms of heterogeneity, phylogeny, and chromosomal distribution. We amplified and characterized conserved domains...Reverse transcriptase (rt) fragments from LINE retrotransposons in the mulberry genome were analyzed in terms of heterogeneity, phylogeny, and chromosomal distribution. We amplified and characterized conserved domains of the rt using degenerate primer pairs. Sequence analyses indicated that the rt fragments were highly heterogeneous and rich in A/T bases. The sequence identity ranged from 31.8% to 99.4%. Based on sequence similarities, the rt fragments were categorized into eight groups. Furthermore, similar stop codon distribution patterns among a series of clones in the same group indicated that they underwent a similar evolutionary process. Interestingly, phylogenetic analyses of the rt fragments isolated from mulberry and 13 other plant species revealed that two distantly related taxa (mulberry and Paeonia suffruticosa) grouped together. It does not appear that this phenomenon resulted from horizontal transposable element transfer. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis revealed that most of the rt fragments were concentrated in the subtelomeric and pericentromeric regions of the mulberry chromosomes, but that these elements were not abundant in the mulberry genome. Future studies will focus on the potential roles of these elements in the subtelomeric and pericentromeric regions of the mulberry genome.展开更多
The annual number of deaths caused by hepatitis B virus(HBV)-related disease, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC), is estimated as 887000. The reported prevalence of HBV reverse transcriptase(RT) mut...The annual number of deaths caused by hepatitis B virus(HBV)-related disease, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC), is estimated as 887000. The reported prevalence of HBV reverse transcriptase(RT) mutation prior to treatment is varied and the impact of preexisting mutations on the treatment of na?ve patients remains controversial, and primarily depends on geographic factors, HBV genotypes, HBe Ag serostatus, HBV viral loads, disease progression, intergenotypic recombination and co-infection with HIV. Different sensitivity of detection methodology used could also affect their prevalence results. Several genotype-dependent HBV RT positions that can affect the emergence of drug resistance have also been reported. Eight mutations in RT(rtL80I, rtD134N, rtN139K/T/H, rtY141F, rtM204I/V, rtF221Y, rtI224V, and rtM309K) are significantly associated with HCC progression. HBe Ag-negative status, low viral load, and genotype C infection are significantly related to a higher frequency and prevalence of preexisting RT mutations. Preexisting mutations are most frequently found in the A-B interdomain of RT which overlaps with the HBs Ag "a" determinant region, mutations of which can lead to simultaneous viral immune escape. In conclusion, the presence of baseline RT mutations can affect drug treatment outcomes and disease progression in HBVinfected populations via modulation of viral fitness and host-immune responses.展开更多
Mixed gliomas, primarily oligoastrocytomas, account for about 5%-10% of all gliomas. Distinguishing oligoastrocytoma based on histological features alone has limitations in predicting the exact biological behavior, ne...Mixed gliomas, primarily oligoastrocytomas, account for about 5%-10% of all gliomas. Distinguishing oligoastrocytoma based on histological features alone has limitations in predicting the exact biological behavior, necessitating ancillary markers for greater specificity. In this case report, human telomerase reverse transcriptase(hT ERT) and high mobility group-A1(HMGA1); markers of proliferation and stemness, have been quantitatively analyzed in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples of a 34 years old patient with oligoastrocytoma. Customized florescence-based immunohistochemistry protocol with enhanced sensitivity and specificity is used in the study. The patient presented with a history of generalized seizures and his magnetic resonance imaging scans revealed infiltrative ill-defined mass lesion with calcified foci within the left frontal white matter, suggestive of glioma. He was surgically treated at our center for four consecutive clinical events. Histopathologically, the tumor was identified as oligoastrocytoma-grade Ⅱ followed by two recurrence events and final progression to grade Ⅲ. Overall survival of the patient without adjuvant therapy was more than 9 years. Glial fibrillary acidic protein, p53, Ki-67, nuclear atypia index, pre-operative neutrophillymphocyte ratio, are the other parameters assessed. Findings suggest that hT ERT and HMGA1 are linked to tumor recurrence and progression. Established markers can assist in defining precise histopathological grade in conjuction with conventional markers in clinical setup.展开更多
Dear Editor,Prototype foamy virus(PFV)belongs to the genus Spumavirus in the Spumaretrovirinae subfamily of Retroviridae.Although PFV and HIV have much in common,research into PFV has lagged far behind that into HIV,a...Dear Editor,Prototype foamy virus(PFV)belongs to the genus Spumavirus in the Spumaretrovirinae subfamily of Retroviridae.Although PFV and HIV have much in common,research into PFV has lagged far behind that into HIV,as PFV appeared to be non-pathogenic both in accidentally infected humans and in experimentally infected animals.In recent decades,however,more attention has been focused on PFV because it seems to be展开更多
Reverse transcription is crucial in bioengineering and biomedical fields,particularly for genome sequencing and virus diagnosis.Enhancing the thermostability of reverse transcriptase can significantly improve its effi...Reverse transcription is crucial in bioengineering and biomedical fields,particularly for genome sequencing and virus diagnosis.Enhancing the thermostability of reverse transcriptase can significantly improve its efficiency and accuracy by enabling it to function at higher temperatures,thereby reducing RNA secondary structures and minimizing interference from contaminating enzymes,particularly in clinical samples.Here,using a combinatorial strategy,a variant of Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus reverse transcriptase(MMLV RT)with improved activity across a wide temperature range(30-50℃)was identified and maintained 100%activity after incubation at 50℃ for 10 min.Eleven hot-spot residues were mutated in various combinations,and the mutant proteins were rapidly expressed in a cell-free system for reverse transcription activity testing.Variant M5,which carries five mutated residues(E47K/E280R/T284R/L413G/D631V),exhibited enhanced thermostability and activity compared to any variant with a single residue mutation.Using purified recombinant protein for precise characterization,the melting temperature(Tm)of M5 increased by 4.7℃ when assembled with a nucleotide template-primer(T/P).Consequently,the half-life of M5 at 50℃ extended to approximately 60 min,in contrast to less than 4 min for the wild type.These findings demonstrate that the epistasis of combining multiple mutant residues holds excellent potential for significantly enhancing enzyme activity,even with existing knowledge.This heat-stable MMLV RT variant M5 may potentially improve efficiency and accuracy in molecular biology research and clinical diagnostics.展开更多
The objective of the present study was to investigate human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA and protein expressions during the cadmium chloride-induced malignant transformation of human bronchial epithel...The objective of the present study was to investigate human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA and protein expressions during the cadmium chloride-induced malignant transformation of human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells. Fluorescence quantitative PCR (FQ-PCR) and Western blot analyses were performed to detect the hTERT mRNA and protein expressions in normal 16HBE cells, cadmium chloride-transformed 16HBE cells, and tumorigenic cells from nude mice inoculated with cadmium chloride-transformed 16HBE cells. Under the inner standard of GAPDH, the hTERT mRNA expression was significantly higher at different stages of malignant transformation (cadmium chloride-transformed 16HBE cells at passages 15 and 35 and tumorigenic cells from nude mice) than in normal 16HBE cells, and increased with the development of malignancy (P < 0.01). In addition, hTERT protein expression increased with the development of malignancy. These findings demonstrate that hTERT expression is related to cadmium chlorideinduced malignant transformation. Cadmium chloride-induced malignant transformation is involved in changes in the hTERT activity, and might be an early event in cadmium chloride-induced malignant transformation.展开更多
BACKGROUND: Numerous current studies have suggested that human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene has neuroprotective effects and can inhibit apoptosis induced by various cytotoxic stresses; however, the...BACKGROUND: Numerous current studies have suggested that human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene has neuroprotective effects and can inhibit apoptosis induced by various cytotoxic stresses; however, the mechanism of action remains unknown. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the neuroprotective effects and possible mechanism of action of hTERT gene transfection in human embryonic cortical neurons treated with beta-amyloid fragment 25-35 (AI325-35). DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: The randomized, controlled and molecular biological studies were performed at the Department of Anatomy and Brain Research, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, China, from September 2005 to June 2008. MATERIALS: AdEasy-1 Expression System was gifted by Professor Guoquan Gao from Sun Yat-Sen University, China. Human cortical neurons were derived from 12-20 week old aborted fetuses, obtained from the Guangzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital, China. Mouse anti-Odk5 and mouse anti-p16 monoclonal antibodies (Lab Vision, USA), and mouse anti-hTERT monoclonal antibody (Epitomics, USA), were used in this study. METHODS: (1) Recombinant adenovirus vectors, encoding hTERT (Ad-hTERT) and green fluorescent protein (Ad-GFP), were constructed using the AdEasy-1 Expression System. Human embryonic cortical neurons in the Ad-hTERT group were transfected with Ad-hTERT for 1-21 days. Likewise, human embryonic cortical neurons in the Ad-GFP group were transfected with Ad-GFP for 1-21 days. Human embryonic cortical neurons in the control group were cultured as normal. (2) Human embryonic cortical neurons in the Ad-hTERT group were treated with 10 pmol/L Aβ25-35 for 24 hours. Normal human embryonic cortical neurons treated with 10 pmol/Lβ25.35 for 24 hours served as a model group. Human embryonic cortical neurons in the Ad-GFP and control groups were not treated with Aβ25-35. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Expression of hTERT in human embryonic cortical neurons was evaluated by immunocytochemical staining and Western blot assay. Telomerase activity was measured using a PCR-based telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) ELISA kit. Neural activity in human embryonic cortical neurons was examined by MTT assay; apoptosis was measured using TUNEL assay; and Cdk5 and p16 protein expressions were measured by Western blot. RESULTS: Expression of hTERT protein was significantly increased and peaked at day 3 post-transfection in the Ad-hTERT group. No hTERT expression was detected in the Ad-GFP and control groups. Telomerase activity was significantly greater in the Ad-hTERT group compared with the Ad-GFP and control groups (P 〈 0.01). Compared with the control group, cell activity was significantly decreased (P 〈 0.05), and cell apoptotic rate, Cdk5 and p16 expression were significantly increased (P 〈 0.01) in the model group. Compared with the model group, cell activity was increased in the Ad-hTERT group, and peaked at day 3 post-transfection (P 〈 0.05). Neuroprotective effects also peaked at day 3 post-transfection; and the apoptotic rate, Cdk5 and p16 expression significantly decreased (P 〈 0.01). CONCLUSION: Expression of hTERT in human embryonic cortical neurons can relieve Aβ25-35-induced neuronal apoptosis. The possible mechanism by which hTERT produces these neuroprotective effects may be associated with inhibition of Cdk5 and p16 expression.展开更多
A previous study, focused on the correlation of muta-tion pairs of synonymous (S) and asynonymous (A) mutations, distinguished only between the treated and untreated data of protease and reverse tran-scriptase (RT) of...A previous study, focused on the correlation of muta-tion pairs of synonymous (S) and asynonymous (A) mutations, distinguished only between the treated and untreated data of protease and reverse tran-scriptase (RT) of HIV-1 subtype B. It is well known that single mutation patterns in HIV-1 are treat-ment-specific. It logically follows that covariation between mutations will also be treatment specific. Thus, our motivation is to give a more in depth study of the covariation between mutation pairs, analyzing not only treated and untreated, but what specific treatments were used, and how they affected the co-variation between the mutations differently. We in-tended to further deepen this study by analyzing the covariation of mutations in protease and RT in dif-ferent subtypes of HIV-1. We found that virus sam-ples subjected to antiretroviral Protease- and RT- inhibitors do show different patterns of mutation covariation in B-subtype protease and RT of HIV-1, while maintaining the same overall trend. covariation will tend to be higher and more distinct from and covariation after treatment. The same trend continues in protease and RT re-gardless of subtype. We also found the highly cova-ried codon positions, position pairs, and position- covariation clusters in protease, affected by different treatments. Most of them are well known major drug-resistance sites for these treatments.展开更多
Aim: To characterize the coexpression of survivin, an inhibitor of apoptosis (IAF), and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) in human testes with varying spermatogenic function. Methods: Transcript lev...Aim: To characterize the coexpression of survivin, an inhibitor of apoptosis (IAF), and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) in human testes with varying spermatogenic function. Methods: Transcript levels of survivin mRNA and hTERT mRNA were determined in normal testes (n = 11) and testes with defective spermatogenesis (n = 28) using real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The histological work-up was performed according to a modified Johnsen score. Results: Expressions of both survivin and hTERT were highest at median levels of 96.8 and 709 in normal spermatogenesis and dropped to 53.3 and 534 in testes with postmeiotic spermatogenic arrest (n = 10). In severe spermatogenic failure (n = 18), survivin expression was lacking in most specimens (n = 16), whereas at least low levels of testicular hTERT expression were largely detectable with a normalized expression of 73 in premeiotic spermatogenic arrest (n = 7) and 45 in patients with Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) (n = 3). Both survivin and hTERT expressions increased with a progressing Johnsen score (P for trend = 0.001). Conclusion: Although both survivin and hTERT are correlated with spermatogenic function, they show different expression patterns in testes of infertile patients. These findings substantiate results from studies in the rodent testis suggesting a predominant expression of survivin in meiotically dividing germ cells. (Asian J Andro12006 Jan; 8: 95-100)展开更多
AIM To report naturally occurring mutations in the reverse transcriptase region(RT)of hepatitis B virus(HBV)polymerase from treatment na?ve Korean chronic patients infected with genotype C2.METHODS Here,full-length HB...AIM To report naturally occurring mutations in the reverse transcriptase region(RT)of hepatitis B virus(HBV)polymerase from treatment na?ve Korean chronic patients infected with genotype C2.METHODS Here,full-length HBV reverse transcriptase RT sequences were amplified and sequenced from 131 treatment na?ve Korean patients chronically infected with hepatitis B genotype C2.The patients had two distinct clinical statuses:59 patients with chronic hepatitis(CH)and 72 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).The deduced amino acids(AAs)at42 previously reported potential nucleos(t)ide analog resistance(NAr)mutation positions in the RT region were analyzed.RESULTS Potential NAr mutations involving 24 positions were found in 79 of the 131 patients(60.3%).Notably,AA substitutions at 2 positions(rt184 and rt204)involved in primary drug resistance and at 2 positions(rt80 and rt180)that functioned as secondary/compensatory mutations were detected in 10 patients(1 CH patient and 9 HCC patients)and 7 patients(1 CH and 6 HCC patients),respectively.The overall mutation frequencies in the HCC patients(3.17%,96/3024 mutations)were significantly higher than the frequencies in the CH patients(2.09%,52/2478 mutations)(P=0.003).In addition,a total of 3 NAr positions,rt80,rt139 and rt204 were found to be significantly related to HCC from treatment na?ve Korean patients.CONCLUSION Our data showed that naturally occurring NAr mutations in South Korea might contribute to liver disease progression(particularly HCC generation)in chronic patients with genotype C2 infections.展开更多
HIV-1 gains entry into target cells by sequentially interacting with cellular receptors and co-receptors. Both the receptor and co-receptor are recognized by HIV-1 envelope protein gpl20, which plays a key role in the...HIV-1 gains entry into target cells by sequentially interacting with cellular receptors and co-receptors. Both the receptor and co-receptor are recognized by HIV-1 envelope protein gpl20, which plays a key role in the entry process of HIV-1 into cells. The development of new inhibitors is essential since the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase (RT) is one of the first targets of antiretroviral therapy. It has been reported that a variety of natural plants, such as Artemisia rupestris L., have anti-viral pharmacological activity, and they might be the potential inhibitors of RT or V3 loop of gpl20 against HIV-1. RIQRGPGRAFVT1GK (R15K), the relatively conserved region of V3 loop, can be used for binding research. In this work, we analyzed the interactions between different extracts from Artemisia rupestris L. and R15K by affinity capillary electrophoresis (ACE). Moreover, we analyzed the interactions between different extracts from Artemisia rupestris L. and RT by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). Our data showed that the chloroform extract ofArtemisia rupestris L. was active among the different plant extracts, which was consistent with previous studies. Taken together, our study provided a rapid screening method to seek anti-HIV ingredients in natural plants' extracts.展开更多
AIM: To study the changes of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA expression in human hepatocarcinoma cell lines (HepG2) and cholangiocarcinoma cell lines (QBC939) after HBx gene transfection and...AIM: To study the changes of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA expression in human hepatocarcinoma cell lines (HepG2) and cholangiocarcinoma cell lines (QBC939) after HBx gene transfection and to illustrate the significance of transcriptional regulation of hTERT gene by HBx gene in the carcinogenesis. METHODS: HepG2 and QBC939 cell lines were cultured and co-transfected with eukaryotic expression vector containing the HBx coding region and cloning vector containing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) coding sequence using lipid-mediated gene transduction technique. Thirty-six hours after transfection, EGFP expression in cells was used as the indicator of successful transfection. Flow cytometry was performed to determine the transfection efficiency. Cells were harvested and total RNA was extracted using TRIzol reagent. The expression of hTERT mRNA in HepG2 and QBC939 cell lines was assayed by reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction. The expression of HBx protein in both cell lines was detected by immunocytochemical staining and Western blotting. RESULTS: Flow cytometry showed that the transfection efficiency was 46.4% in HepG2 cells and 29.6% in QBC939 cells for both HBx gene expression vector and blank vector. The expression of hTERT mRNA was meaningfully increased in HepG2 and QBC939 cell lines when transfected with HBx gene expression vector compared to those transfected with OPTI-MEM medium and blank vector. Immunocytochemical staining and Western blotting revealed HBx protein expression in HepG2 and QBC939 cells only when transfected with HBx gene. CONCLUSION: HBx gene transfection can upregulate the transcriptional expression of hTERT mRNA. The transactivation of hTERT gene by HBx gene is a newfound mechanism for pathogenesis of hepatocarcinomas and cholangiocarcinomas after HBV infection. 2005 The WJG Press and Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved展开更多
Objective To investigate the effects of sodium selenite on telomerase activity, apoptosis and expression of TERT, c-myc and p53 in rat hepatocytes. Methods Selenium at doses of 2.5, 5.0, and 10 μmol/kg was given to S...Objective To investigate the effects of sodium selenite on telomerase activity, apoptosis and expression of TERT, c-myc and p53 in rat hepatocytes. Methods Selenium at doses of 2.5, 5.0, and 10 μmol/kg was given to SD rats by garage. In rat hepatocytes, telomerase activity was measured by the telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP), apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry, and expressions of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), c-myc and p53 were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). c-Myc and P53 proteins were detected by immunochemistry. Results Selenium at doses of 2.5, 5.0, and 10 μmol/kg significantly increased hepatocellular telomerase activity and induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Although selenium at doses of 2.5, 5.0, and 10 μmol/kg displayed no obvious enhancing effect on the TERT mRNA expression in rat hepatocytes (P〉0.05), it significantly increased the c-myc mRNA and p53 mRNA expression at the dose of 10 μmol/kg (P〈0.05). Selenium at doses of 5.0 and 10 μmol/kg obviously increased the content of P53 protein in rat hepatocytes, but only at the dose of 10 μmol/kg, it significantly promoted the value of c-Myc protein in them. Conclusion Selenium can slightly increase telomerase activity and TERT expression, and significantly induce apoptosis and over-expression of c-myc and p53 at relatively high doses. The beneficial effects of selenium on senescence and aging may be mediated by telomerase activation and expression of TERT, c-myc, and p53 in rat hepatocytes.展开更多
Aim: To investigate the effect of inhibition of telomerase with human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) antisense on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α-induced apoptosis in prostate cancer cells (PC3). Meth...Aim: To investigate the effect of inhibition of telomerase with human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) antisense on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α-induced apoptosis in prostate cancer cells (PC3). Methods: Antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide (AS PS-ODN) was synthesized and purified. Telomerase activity was measured using the telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) and polymerase chain reaction enzyme-linked immunoassay (PCR-ELISA). hTERT mRNA was measured by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) assay and gel-image system, hTERT protein was detected by immunochemistry and flow cytometry. Cell viability was detected by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) assay. Cell apoptosis was observed by morphological method and determined by flow cytometry. Results: The telomerase activity decreased with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN treatment. The levels of hTERT mRNA decreased with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN treatment, which appeared before the decline of the telomerase activity. The percentage of positive cells of hTERT protein declined with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN treatment, which appeared after the decline of hTERT mRNA. There was no difference in telomerase activity, hTERT mRNA and protein levels between hTERT sense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide (S PS-ODN) and the control group. The cell viability decreased with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN combined with TNF-α treatment. The percentage of apoptosis increased with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN combined with TNF-α treatment. There was no difference in cell viability and the percentage of apoptosis between hTERT S PS-ODN and the control group. Conclusion: hTERT AS PS-ODN can significantly inhibit telomerase activity by downregulating the hTERT mRNA and protein expression, and inhibition of telomerase with hTERT antisense can enhance TNF-α- induced apoptosis of PC3 cells.展开更多
As follow-up of our past publication?[1], we propose that quinolones (as part of the pyridinone family) are capable to increase the number of interactions with HIV reverse transcriptase (RT) or integrase (IN) by addin...As follow-up of our past publication?[1], we propose that quinolones (as part of the pyridinone family) are capable to increase the number of interactions with HIV reverse transcriptase (RT) or integrase (IN) by adding a halogen in position C-8 of aromatic portion of the quinolones. This addition could help with the activity of dual inhibitors of RT and IN. In this work, we add a chlorine atom with the rationale to identify in the docking simulations a halogen interaction with the oxygen in the near aminoacids in the binding pockets of RT and IN enzymes. Our docking studies started with RT and 320 structures. Later, we took 73 structures with good results in docking with RT. The structures that we choose contain ester or acids groups in C-3 due the structural similarity with groups in charge to interact with the Mg++ ions in Elvitegravir. In conclusion, we obtained 14 structures that could occupy the allosteric pocket of RT and could inhibit the catalytic activity of IN, for this reason could be dual inhibitors. A major perspective of this work is the synthesis and testing of the potential dual inhibitors designed.展开更多
Ty1/copia-like sequences were amplified from mung bean(Vigna radiata(L.)Wilczek)genomic DNA,by PCR with degenerate oligonucleotide primers corresponding to highly conserved domains in the Ty1/copia-like retrotransposo...Ty1/copia-like sequences were amplified from mung bean(Vigna radiata(L.)Wilczek)genomic DNA,by PCR with degenerate oligonucleotide primers corresponding to highly conserved domains in the Ty1/copia-like retrotransposons.PCR fragments of roughly 270 bp were isolated and cloned,and forty clones were sequenced.Thirty-six of the forty clones had unique nucleotide sequences,and eighteen clones had a frameshift,a stop codon,or both.Alignment of the nucleotide sequences indicated that these clones,denoted Tvr,fell into nine subgroups and nine ungrouped sequences.The nucleotide sequence similarity between these elements ranged from 8%to 100%,which indicates high level of sequence heterogeneity among these clones.A phylogenetic analysis comparing these clones with corresponding sequences from other plant species showed that some of the Tvr clones are more closely related to Ty1/copia-like retrotransposons from other species than to other Tvr clones.Dot blot analysis revealed that Ty1/copia-like retrotransposons comprise about 9.3%of the mung bean genome.展开更多
HIV-1 reverse transcriptase(RT)is responsible for reverse transcription of viral single-stranded RNA to double-stranded DNA,which plays an important role in the replication cycle of HIV-1 and has been identified as a ...HIV-1 reverse transcriptase(RT)is responsible for reverse transcription of viral single-stranded RNA to double-stranded DNA,which plays an important role in the replication cycle of HIV-1 and has been identified as a key target for anti-HIV-1 drug discovery.Among HIV-1 RT inhibitors,allosteric inhibitors acting on non-catalytic sites have the advantages of high efficiency and low cytotoxicity,which are the focus of the research on anti-HIV-1 inhibitors.Great progress has been achieved in the structural biology of HIV-1 RT,which significantly facilitated the development of RT allosteric inhibitors.Herein,we provided a detailed review of the co-crystal structures of small molecule allosteric inhibitors in complex with RT reported in the last decade.Moreover,the strategies to discover novel and efficient inhibitors based on co-crystal structures have also been discussed,expecting to provide a reference for the development of the next-generation anti-HIV-1 drugs.展开更多
基金The paper was support by a grant from the Ministry Youth Research of China,No.98-1-269
摘要AIM: To study persistence and replication of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients' peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) cultured in vitro. METHODS: Epstein Barr virus (EBV) was used to transform the hepatitis C virus from a HCV positive patient to permanent lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL). Positive and negative HCV RNA strands of the cultured cells and growth media were detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) each month. Core and NS5 proteins of HCV were further tested using immunohistochemical SP method and in situ RT-PCR. RESULTS: HCV RNA positive strands were consistently detected the cultured cells for one year. The negative-strand RNA in LCL cells and the positive-strand RNA in supernatants were observed intermittently. Immunohistochemical results medicated expression of HCV NS3 and C proteins in LCL cytoplasm mostly. The positive signal of PCR product was dark blue and mainly localized to the LCL cytoplasm. The RT-PCR signal was eliminated by overnight RNase digestion but not DNase digestion. CONCLUSION: HCV may exist and remain functional in a cultured cell line for a long period.
摘要This editorial provides an in-depth evaluation of the study by Aizimuaji et al published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology,which investigates the prognostic value of the telomerase reverse transcriptase(TERT)promoter C228T mutation in hepatitis B virus-related hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).The study highlights the innovative application of optimized digital polymerase chain reaction technology to improve the sensitivity of TERT mutation detection.The results demonstrate that the TERT C228T mutation is significantly associated with reduced overall survival and disease-free survival,identifying it as a potential biomarker for poor prognosis.Additionally,the study successfully developed a nomogram model incorporating TERT mutation status,which significantly enhances the accuracy of postoperative recurrence risk prediction.This editorial further discusses the biological significance of TERT mutations in hepatitis B virus-related HCC,emphasizing their role as an early driver of liver carcinogenesis.While digital polymerase chain reaction offers significant advantages over traditional Sanger sequencing,providing a more precise detection tool for clinical applications,large-scale and multi-center validation is still required for broader clinical adoption.Moreover,the editorial explores the potential of integrating TERT mutation detection with other molecular biomarkers for a more comprehensive approach to personalized treatment,providing valuable insights for future precision therapy in liver cancer.This study not only opens new avenues for individualized treatment and early intervention in HCC but also serves as an important reference for the future development of liver cancer biomarkers.
基金supported by a grant from the Science and Technology Development Plan Program of Jilin Province of China,No.2011084
摘要Transfection of the human telomerase reverse transcriptase(h TERT)gene has been shown to increase cell proliferation and enhance tissue repair.In the present study,h TERT was transfected into rat Schwann cells.A rat model of acute spinal cord injury was established by the modified free-falling method.Retrovirus PLXSN was injected at the site of spinal cord injury as a vector to mediate h TERT gene-transfected Schwann cells(1×10^(10)/L;10μL)or Schwann cells(1×10^(10)/L;10μL)without h TERT gene transfection.Between 1 and 4 weeks after model establishment,motor function of the lower limb improved in the h TERT-transfected group compared with the group with non-transfected Schwann cells.Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated d UTP nick-end labeling and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction results revealed that the number of apoptotic cells,and gene expression of aquaporin 4/9 and matrix metalloproteinase 9/2decreased at the site of injury in both groups;however,the effect improved in the h TERT-transfected group compared with the Schwann cells without h TERT transfection group.Hematoxylin and eosin staining,PKH26 fluorescent labeling,and electrophysiological testing demonstrated that compared with the non-transfected group,spinal cord cavity and motor and sensory evoked potential latencies were reduced,while the number of PKH26-positive cells and the motor and sensory evoked potential amplitude increased at the site of injury in the h TERT-transfected group.These findings suggest that transplantation of h TERT gene-transfected Schwann cells repairs the structure and function of the injured spinal cord.
摘要Reverse transcriptase (rt) fragments from LINE retrotransposons in the mulberry genome were analyzed in terms of heterogeneity, phylogeny, and chromosomal distribution. We amplified and characterized conserved domains of the rt using degenerate primer pairs. Sequence analyses indicated that the rt fragments were highly heterogeneous and rich in A/T bases. The sequence identity ranged from 31.8% to 99.4%. Based on sequence similarities, the rt fragments were categorized into eight groups. Furthermore, similar stop codon distribution patterns among a series of clones in the same group indicated that they underwent a similar evolutionary process. Interestingly, phylogenetic analyses of the rt fragments isolated from mulberry and 13 other plant species revealed that two distantly related taxa (mulberry and Paeonia suffruticosa) grouped together. It does not appear that this phenomenon resulted from horizontal transposable element transfer. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis revealed that most of the rt fragments were concentrated in the subtelomeric and pericentromeric regions of the mulberry chromosomes, but that these elements were not abundant in the mulberry genome. Future studies will focus on the potential roles of these elements in the subtelomeric and pericentromeric regions of the mulberry genome.
基金Supported by the Korea Health Technology R&D Project through the Korea Health Industry Development Institute and the Ministry of Health and Welfare,South Korea,No.HI14C0955
摘要The annual number of deaths caused by hepatitis B virus(HBV)-related disease, including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC), is estimated as 887000. The reported prevalence of HBV reverse transcriptase(RT) mutation prior to treatment is varied and the impact of preexisting mutations on the treatment of na?ve patients remains controversial, and primarily depends on geographic factors, HBV genotypes, HBe Ag serostatus, HBV viral loads, disease progression, intergenotypic recombination and co-infection with HIV. Different sensitivity of detection methodology used could also affect their prevalence results. Several genotype-dependent HBV RT positions that can affect the emergence of drug resistance have also been reported. Eight mutations in RT(rtL80I, rtD134N, rtN139K/T/H, rtY141F, rtM204I/V, rtF221Y, rtI224V, and rtM309K) are significantly associated with HCC progression. HBe Ag-negative status, low viral load, and genotype C infection are significantly related to a higher frequency and prevalence of preexisting RT mutations. Preexisting mutations are most frequently found in the A-B interdomain of RT which overlaps with the HBs Ag "a" determinant region, mutations of which can lead to simultaneous viral immune escape. In conclusion, the presence of baseline RT mutations can affect drug treatment outcomes and disease progression in HBVinfected populations via modulation of viral fitness and host-immune responses.
基金Supported by M.P.Biotech Council,M.P.for financial assistanceBMHRC for infrastructural facilities,No.249
摘要Mixed gliomas, primarily oligoastrocytomas, account for about 5%-10% of all gliomas. Distinguishing oligoastrocytoma based on histological features alone has limitations in predicting the exact biological behavior, necessitating ancillary markers for greater specificity. In this case report, human telomerase reverse transcriptase(hT ERT) and high mobility group-A1(HMGA1); markers of proliferation and stemness, have been quantitatively analyzed in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples of a 34 years old patient with oligoastrocytoma. Customized florescence-based immunohistochemistry protocol with enhanced sensitivity and specificity is used in the study. The patient presented with a history of generalized seizures and his magnetic resonance imaging scans revealed infiltrative ill-defined mass lesion with calcified foci within the left frontal white matter, suggestive of glioma. He was surgically treated at our center for four consecutive clinical events. Histopathologically, the tumor was identified as oligoastrocytoma-grade Ⅱ followed by two recurrence events and final progression to grade Ⅲ. Overall survival of the patient without adjuvant therapy was more than 9 years. Glial fibrillary acidic protein, p53, Ki-67, nuclear atypia index, pre-operative neutrophillymphocyte ratio, are the other parameters assessed. Findings suggest that hT ERT and HMGA1 are linked to tumor recurrence and progression. Established markers can assist in defining precise histopathological grade in conjuction with conventional markers in clinical setup.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31000086,No.31170154,No.1371790)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(GK201305001,GK201404003)the Innovative Experiment Projects of Educational Ministry of China for Undergraduate(201310718053,cx14069)
摘要Dear Editor,Prototype foamy virus(PFV)belongs to the genus Spumavirus in the Spumaretrovirinae subfamily of Retroviridae.Although PFV and HIV have much in common,research into PFV has lagged far behind that into HIV,as PFV appeared to be non-pathogenic both in accidentally infected humans and in experimentally infected animals.In recent decades,however,more attention has been focused on PFV because it seems to be
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(Grant No.2019YFA0904103).
摘要Reverse transcription is crucial in bioengineering and biomedical fields,particularly for genome sequencing and virus diagnosis.Enhancing the thermostability of reverse transcriptase can significantly improve its efficiency and accuracy by enabling it to function at higher temperatures,thereby reducing RNA secondary structures and minimizing interference from contaminating enzymes,particularly in clinical samples.Here,using a combinatorial strategy,a variant of Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus reverse transcriptase(MMLV RT)with improved activity across a wide temperature range(30-50℃)was identified and maintained 100%activity after incubation at 50℃ for 10 min.Eleven hot-spot residues were mutated in various combinations,and the mutant proteins were rapidly expressed in a cell-free system for reverse transcription activity testing.Variant M5,which carries five mutated residues(E47K/E280R/T284R/L413G/D631V),exhibited enhanced thermostability and activity compared to any variant with a single residue mutation.Using purified recombinant protein for precise characterization,the melting temperature(Tm)of M5 increased by 4.7℃ when assembled with a nucleotide template-primer(T/P).Consequently,the half-life of M5 at 50℃ extended to approximately 60 min,in contrast to less than 4 min for the wild type.These findings demonstrate that the epistasis of combining multiple mutant residues holds excellent potential for significantly enhancing enzyme activity,even with existing knowledge.This heat-stable MMLV RT variant M5 may potentially improve efficiency and accuracy in molecular biology research and clinical diagnostics.
摘要The objective of the present study was to investigate human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA and protein expressions during the cadmium chloride-induced malignant transformation of human bronchial epithelial (16HBE) cells. Fluorescence quantitative PCR (FQ-PCR) and Western blot analyses were performed to detect the hTERT mRNA and protein expressions in normal 16HBE cells, cadmium chloride-transformed 16HBE cells, and tumorigenic cells from nude mice inoculated with cadmium chloride-transformed 16HBE cells. Under the inner standard of GAPDH, the hTERT mRNA expression was significantly higher at different stages of malignant transformation (cadmium chloride-transformed 16HBE cells at passages 15 and 35 and tumorigenic cells from nude mice) than in normal 16HBE cells, and increased with the development of malignancy (P < 0.01). In addition, hTERT protein expression increased with the development of malignancy. These findings demonstrate that hTERT expression is related to cadmium chlorideinduced malignant transformation. Cadmium chloride-induced malignant transformation is involved in changes in the hTERT activity, and might be an early event in cadmium chloride-induced malignant transformation.
基金the National Key Basic Research Program of China,No. 2006cb500700the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.30470904the Natural Science and Technology Foundation of Guangdong Province,No. 04009356, 2008B030301320
摘要BACKGROUND: Numerous current studies have suggested that human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) gene has neuroprotective effects and can inhibit apoptosis induced by various cytotoxic stresses; however, the mechanism of action remains unknown. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the neuroprotective effects and possible mechanism of action of hTERT gene transfection in human embryonic cortical neurons treated with beta-amyloid fragment 25-35 (AI325-35). DESIGN, TIME AND SETTING: The randomized, controlled and molecular biological studies were performed at the Department of Anatomy and Brain Research, Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, China, from September 2005 to June 2008. MATERIALS: AdEasy-1 Expression System was gifted by Professor Guoquan Gao from Sun Yat-Sen University, China. Human cortical neurons were derived from 12-20 week old aborted fetuses, obtained from the Guangzhou Maternal and Child Health Hospital, China. Mouse anti-Odk5 and mouse anti-p16 monoclonal antibodies (Lab Vision, USA), and mouse anti-hTERT monoclonal antibody (Epitomics, USA), were used in this study. METHODS: (1) Recombinant adenovirus vectors, encoding hTERT (Ad-hTERT) and green fluorescent protein (Ad-GFP), were constructed using the AdEasy-1 Expression System. Human embryonic cortical neurons in the Ad-hTERT group were transfected with Ad-hTERT for 1-21 days. Likewise, human embryonic cortical neurons in the Ad-GFP group were transfected with Ad-GFP for 1-21 days. Human embryonic cortical neurons in the control group were cultured as normal. (2) Human embryonic cortical neurons in the Ad-hTERT group were treated with 10 pmol/L Aβ25-35 for 24 hours. Normal human embryonic cortical neurons treated with 10 pmol/Lβ25.35 for 24 hours served as a model group. Human embryonic cortical neurons in the Ad-GFP and control groups were not treated with Aβ25-35. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Expression of hTERT in human embryonic cortical neurons was evaluated by immunocytochemical staining and Western blot assay. Telomerase activity was measured using a PCR-based telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) ELISA kit. Neural activity in human embryonic cortical neurons was examined by MTT assay; apoptosis was measured using TUNEL assay; and Cdk5 and p16 protein expressions were measured by Western blot. RESULTS: Expression of hTERT protein was significantly increased and peaked at day 3 post-transfection in the Ad-hTERT group. No hTERT expression was detected in the Ad-GFP and control groups. Telomerase activity was significantly greater in the Ad-hTERT group compared with the Ad-GFP and control groups (P 〈 0.01). Compared with the control group, cell activity was significantly decreased (P 〈 0.05), and cell apoptotic rate, Cdk5 and p16 expression were significantly increased (P 〈 0.01) in the model group. Compared with the model group, cell activity was increased in the Ad-hTERT group, and peaked at day 3 post-transfection (P 〈 0.05). Neuroprotective effects also peaked at day 3 post-transfection; and the apoptotic rate, Cdk5 and p16 expression significantly decreased (P 〈 0.01). CONCLUSION: Expression of hTERT in human embryonic cortical neurons can relieve Aβ25-35-induced neuronal apoptosis. The possible mechanism by which hTERT produces these neuroprotective effects may be associated with inhibition of Cdk5 and p16 expression.
摘要A previous study, focused on the correlation of muta-tion pairs of synonymous (S) and asynonymous (A) mutations, distinguished only between the treated and untreated data of protease and reverse tran-scriptase (RT) of HIV-1 subtype B. It is well known that single mutation patterns in HIV-1 are treat-ment-specific. It logically follows that covariation between mutations will also be treatment specific. Thus, our motivation is to give a more in depth study of the covariation between mutation pairs, analyzing not only treated and untreated, but what specific treatments were used, and how they affected the co-variation between the mutations differently. We in-tended to further deepen this study by analyzing the covariation of mutations in protease and RT in dif-ferent subtypes of HIV-1. We found that virus sam-ples subjected to antiretroviral Protease- and RT- inhibitors do show different patterns of mutation covariation in B-subtype protease and RT of HIV-1, while maintaining the same overall trend. covariation will tend to be higher and more distinct from and covariation after treatment. The same trend continues in protease and RT re-gardless of subtype. We also found the highly cova-ried codon positions, position pairs, and position- covariation clusters in protease, affected by different treatments. Most of them are well known major drug-resistance sites for these treatments.
摘要Aim: To characterize the coexpression of survivin, an inhibitor of apoptosis (IAF), and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) in human testes with varying spermatogenic function. Methods: Transcript levels of survivin mRNA and hTERT mRNA were determined in normal testes (n = 11) and testes with defective spermatogenesis (n = 28) using real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The histological work-up was performed according to a modified Johnsen score. Results: Expressions of both survivin and hTERT were highest at median levels of 96.8 and 709 in normal spermatogenesis and dropped to 53.3 and 534 in testes with postmeiotic spermatogenic arrest (n = 10). In severe spermatogenic failure (n = 18), survivin expression was lacking in most specimens (n = 16), whereas at least low levels of testicular hTERT expression were largely detectable with a normalized expression of 73 in premeiotic spermatogenic arrest (n = 7) and 45 in patients with Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) (n = 3). Both survivin and hTERT expressions increased with a progressing Johnsen score (P for trend = 0.001). Conclusion: Although both survivin and hTERT are correlated with spermatogenic function, they show different expression patterns in testes of infertile patients. These findings substantiate results from studies in the rodent testis suggesting a predominant expression of survivin in meiotically dividing germ cells. (Asian J Andro12006 Jan; 8: 95-100)
基金Supported by Basic Science Research Program through the National Research Foundation of Korea(NRF)funded by the Ministry of Education,Science and Technology No.NRF-2015R1C1A1A02037267Korea Health Technology R&D Project through the Korea Health Industry Development Institute,funded by the Ministry of Health and Welfare,South Korea,No.HI14C0955
摘要AIM To report naturally occurring mutations in the reverse transcriptase region(RT)of hepatitis B virus(HBV)polymerase from treatment na?ve Korean chronic patients infected with genotype C2.METHODS Here,full-length HBV reverse transcriptase RT sequences were amplified and sequenced from 131 treatment na?ve Korean patients chronically infected with hepatitis B genotype C2.The patients had two distinct clinical statuses:59 patients with chronic hepatitis(CH)and 72 patients with hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).The deduced amino acids(AAs)at42 previously reported potential nucleos(t)ide analog resistance(NAr)mutation positions in the RT region were analyzed.RESULTS Potential NAr mutations involving 24 positions were found in 79 of the 131 patients(60.3%).Notably,AA substitutions at 2 positions(rt184 and rt204)involved in primary drug resistance and at 2 positions(rt80 and rt180)that functioned as secondary/compensatory mutations were detected in 10 patients(1 CH patient and 9 HCC patients)and 7 patients(1 CH and 6 HCC patients),respectively.The overall mutation frequencies in the HCC patients(3.17%,96/3024 mutations)were significantly higher than the frequencies in the CH patients(2.09%,52/2478 mutations)(P=0.003).In addition,a total of 3 NAr positions,rt80,rt139 and rt204 were found to be significantly related to HCC from treatment na?ve Korean patients.CONCLUSION Our data showed that naturally occurring NAr mutations in South Korea might contribute to liver disease progression(particularly HCC generation)in chronic patients with genotype C2 infections.
基金National Natural Science Foundation(Grant No.81373372)Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education of China(Grant No.20110001110021 and 20130001110059)
摘要HIV-1 gains entry into target cells by sequentially interacting with cellular receptors and co-receptors. Both the receptor and co-receptor are recognized by HIV-1 envelope protein gpl20, which plays a key role in the entry process of HIV-1 into cells. The development of new inhibitors is essential since the viral enzyme reverse transcriptase (RT) is one of the first targets of antiretroviral therapy. It has been reported that a variety of natural plants, such as Artemisia rupestris L., have anti-viral pharmacological activity, and they might be the potential inhibitors of RT or V3 loop of gpl20 against HIV-1. RIQRGPGRAFVT1GK (R15K), the relatively conserved region of V3 loop, can be used for binding research. In this work, we analyzed the interactions between different extracts from Artemisia rupestris L. and R15K by affinity capillary electrophoresis (ACE). Moreover, we analyzed the interactions between different extracts from Artemisia rupestris L. and RT by capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE). Our data showed that the chloroform extract ofArtemisia rupestris L. was active among the different plant extracts, which was consistent with previous studies. Taken together, our study provided a rapid screening method to seek anti-HIV ingredients in natural plants' extracts.
摘要AIM: To study the changes of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) mRNA expression in human hepatocarcinoma cell lines (HepG2) and cholangiocarcinoma cell lines (QBC939) after HBx gene transfection and to illustrate the significance of transcriptional regulation of hTERT gene by HBx gene in the carcinogenesis. METHODS: HepG2 and QBC939 cell lines were cultured and co-transfected with eukaryotic expression vector containing the HBx coding region and cloning vector containing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) coding sequence using lipid-mediated gene transduction technique. Thirty-six hours after transfection, EGFP expression in cells was used as the indicator of successful transfection. Flow cytometry was performed to determine the transfection efficiency. Cells were harvested and total RNA was extracted using TRIzol reagent. The expression of hTERT mRNA in HepG2 and QBC939 cell lines was assayed by reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction. The expression of HBx protein in both cell lines was detected by immunocytochemical staining and Western blotting. RESULTS: Flow cytometry showed that the transfection efficiency was 46.4% in HepG2 cells and 29.6% in QBC939 cells for both HBx gene expression vector and blank vector. The expression of hTERT mRNA was meaningfully increased in HepG2 and QBC939 cell lines when transfected with HBx gene expression vector compared to those transfected with OPTI-MEM medium and blank vector. Immunocytochemical staining and Western blotting revealed HBx protein expression in HepG2 and QBC939 cells only when transfected with HBx gene. CONCLUSION: HBx gene transfection can upregulate the transcriptional expression of hTERT mRNA. The transactivation of hTERT gene by HBx gene is a newfound mechanism for pathogenesis of hepatocarcinomas and cholangiocarcinomas after HBV infection. 2005 The WJG Press and Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved
基金supported by the Scientific Foundation and Teacher’s Foundation of Guangdong Pharmaceutical University (No.2006GGW01)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No.30271110)
摘要Objective To investigate the effects of sodium selenite on telomerase activity, apoptosis and expression of TERT, c-myc and p53 in rat hepatocytes. Methods Selenium at doses of 2.5, 5.0, and 10 μmol/kg was given to SD rats by garage. In rat hepatocytes, telomerase activity was measured by the telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP), apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry, and expressions of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), c-myc and p53 were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). c-Myc and P53 proteins were detected by immunochemistry. Results Selenium at doses of 2.5, 5.0, and 10 μmol/kg significantly increased hepatocellular telomerase activity and induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner. Although selenium at doses of 2.5, 5.0, and 10 μmol/kg displayed no obvious enhancing effect on the TERT mRNA expression in rat hepatocytes (P〉0.05), it significantly increased the c-myc mRNA and p53 mRNA expression at the dose of 10 μmol/kg (P〈0.05). Selenium at doses of 5.0 and 10 μmol/kg obviously increased the content of P53 protein in rat hepatocytes, but only at the dose of 10 μmol/kg, it significantly promoted the value of c-Myc protein in them. Conclusion Selenium can slightly increase telomerase activity and TERT expression, and significantly induce apoptosis and over-expression of c-myc and p53 at relatively high doses. The beneficial effects of selenium on senescence and aging may be mediated by telomerase activation and expression of TERT, c-myc, and p53 in rat hepatocytes.
摘要Aim: To investigate the effect of inhibition of telomerase with human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) antisense on tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α-induced apoptosis in prostate cancer cells (PC3). Methods: Antisense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide (AS PS-ODN) was synthesized and purified. Telomerase activity was measured using the telomeric repeat amplification protocol (TRAP) and polymerase chain reaction enzyme-linked immunoassay (PCR-ELISA). hTERT mRNA was measured by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) assay and gel-image system, hTERT protein was detected by immunochemistry and flow cytometry. Cell viability was detected by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium (MTT) assay. Cell apoptosis was observed by morphological method and determined by flow cytometry. Results: The telomerase activity decreased with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN treatment. The levels of hTERT mRNA decreased with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN treatment, which appeared before the decline of the telomerase activity. The percentage of positive cells of hTERT protein declined with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN treatment, which appeared after the decline of hTERT mRNA. There was no difference in telomerase activity, hTERT mRNA and protein levels between hTERT sense phosphorothioate oligodeoxynucleotide (S PS-ODN) and the control group. The cell viability decreased with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN combined with TNF-α treatment. The percentage of apoptosis increased with time after hTERT AS PS-ODN combined with TNF-α treatment. There was no difference in cell viability and the percentage of apoptosis between hTERT S PS-ODN and the control group. Conclusion: hTERT AS PS-ODN can significantly inhibit telomerase activity by downregulating the hTERT mRNA and protein expression, and inhibition of telomerase with hTERT antisense can enhance TNF-α- induced apoptosis of PC3 cells.
摘要As follow-up of our past publication?[1], we propose that quinolones (as part of the pyridinone family) are capable to increase the number of interactions with HIV reverse transcriptase (RT) or integrase (IN) by adding a halogen in position C-8 of aromatic portion of the quinolones. This addition could help with the activity of dual inhibitors of RT and IN. In this work, we add a chlorine atom with the rationale to identify in the docking simulations a halogen interaction with the oxygen in the near aminoacids in the binding pockets of RT and IN enzymes. Our docking studies started with RT and 320 structures. Later, we took 73 structures with good results in docking with RT. The structures that we choose contain ester or acids groups in C-3 due the structural similarity with groups in charge to interact with the Mg++ ions in Elvitegravir. In conclusion, we obtained 14 structures that could occupy the allosteric pocket of RT and could inhibit the catalytic activity of IN, for this reason could be dual inhibitors. A major perspective of this work is the synthesis and testing of the potential dual inhibitors designed.
摘要Ty1/copia-like sequences were amplified from mung bean(Vigna radiata(L.)Wilczek)genomic DNA,by PCR with degenerate oligonucleotide primers corresponding to highly conserved domains in the Ty1/copia-like retrotransposons.PCR fragments of roughly 270 bp were isolated and cloned,and forty clones were sequenced.Thirty-six of the forty clones had unique nucleotide sequences,and eighteen clones had a frameshift,a stop codon,or both.Alignment of the nucleotide sequences indicated that these clones,denoted Tvr,fell into nine subgroups and nine ungrouped sequences.The nucleotide sequence similarity between these elements ranged from 8%to 100%,which indicates high level of sequence heterogeneity among these clones.A phylogenetic analysis comparing these clones with corresponding sequences from other plant species showed that some of the Tvr clones are more closely related to Ty1/copia-like retrotransposons from other species than to other Tvr clones.Dot blot analysis revealed that Ty1/copia-like retrotransposons comprise about 9.3%of the mung bean genome.
基金support from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(NSFC No.82273773)Shandong Laboratory Program(SYS202205,China)+1 种基金Major Basic Project of Natural Science in Shandong Province(ZR2021ZD17,China)Qilu Young Scholars Program of Shandong University and Taishan Scholar Program at Shandong Province.
摘要HIV-1 reverse transcriptase(RT)is responsible for reverse transcription of viral single-stranded RNA to double-stranded DNA,which plays an important role in the replication cycle of HIV-1 and has been identified as a key target for anti-HIV-1 drug discovery.Among HIV-1 RT inhibitors,allosteric inhibitors acting on non-catalytic sites have the advantages of high efficiency and low cytotoxicity,which are the focus of the research on anti-HIV-1 inhibitors.Great progress has been achieved in the structural biology of HIV-1 RT,which significantly facilitated the development of RT allosteric inhibitors.Herein,we provided a detailed review of the co-crystal structures of small molecule allosteric inhibitors in complex with RT reported in the last decade.Moreover,the strategies to discover novel and efficient inhibitors based on co-crystal structures have also been discussed,expecting to provide a reference for the development of the next-generation anti-HIV-1 drugs.