Efficacy of serum-free cultured human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis in mice

BACKGROUND We investigated the efficacy of intra-articular injection of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells(hUC-MSCs)for the treatment of osteoarthritis(OA)progression in the knee joint.Although many experimental studies of hUC-MSCs have been published,these studies have mainly used fetal bovine serumcontaining cultures of hUC-MSCs;serum-free cultures generally avoid the shortcomings of serum-containing cultures and are not subject to ethical limitations,have a wide range of prospects for clinical application,and provide a basis or animal experimentation for clinical experiments.AIM To study the therapeutic effects of serum-free hUC-MSCs(N-hUCMSCs)in a mouse model of knee OA.METHODS Fifty-five male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into six groups:The blank control group,model control group,serum-containing hUC-MSCs(S-hUCMSC)group,N-hUCMSC group and hyaluronic acid(HA)group.After 9 weeks of modeling,the serum levels of interleukin(IL)-1β and IL-1 were determined.Hematoxylin-eosin staining was used to observe the cartilage tissue,and the Mankin score was determined.Immunohistochemistry and western blotting were used to determine the expression of collagen type II,matrix metalloproteinase(MMP)-1 and MMP-13.RESULTS The Mankin score and serum IL-1 and IL-1β and cartilage tissue MMP-1 and MMP-13 expression were significantly greater in the experimental group than in the blank control group(P<0.05).Collagen II expression in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the blank control group(P<0.05).The Mankin score and serum IL-1 and IL-1β and cartilage tissue MMP-1 and MMP-13 levels the experimental group were lower than those in the model control group(P<0.05).Collagen II expression in the experimental group was significantly greater than that in the model control group(P<0.05).CONCLUSION N-hUCMSC treatment significantly alleviate the pathological damage caused by OA.The treatment effects of the ShUCMSC group and HA group were similar.

AIGC Related Context: A New Communication Culture For Human

The emergence and rapid development of Artificial Intelligence Generated Content(AIGC)technology is revolutionizing human communication and cultural landscapes.This paper explores the impact of AIGC on society,identifying three distinct cultural paradigms:AIGC Blended Culture,AIGC Based Culture,and AIGC Polluted Culture.AIGC Blended Culture represents a synergistic collaboration between AI and human creativity,enhancing content creation efficiency,promoting cross-cultural communication,and enriching human experiences.AIGC Based Culture signifies a shift where AI becomes the core driver of cultural production and dissemination.This leads to innovative cultural industry models,expanded development fields,and improved cultural product quality and diversity.However,AIGC Polluted Culture arises from the misuse of AIGC to produce or disseminate harmful content.The paper proposes countermeasures and recommendations to maximize the benefits of AIGC while mitigating potential risks.This involves fostering collaboration between AI and humans,focusing on talent cultivation,establishing and improving laws and regulations,and developing solutions to detect and mitigate harmful content.Additionally,promoting responsible innovation and ethical AI development is crucial.In conclusion,AIGC represents a transformative force reshaping human communication and culture.While offering immense opportunities for innovation and efficiency,it also presents challenges that require careful consideration and proactive measures to ensure its positive and sustainable impact on society.

Semaphorin 7A impairs barrier function in cultured human corneal epithelial cells in a manner dependent on nuclear factor-kappa B

●AIM:To evaluate the role of semaphorin 7A(Sema7A)and its associated regulatory mechanisms in modulating the barrier function of cultured human corneal epithelial cells(HCEs).●METHODS:Barrier models of HCEs were treated with recombinant human Sema7A at concentrations of 0,125,250,or 500 ng/mL for 24,48,or 72h in vitro.Transepithelial electrical resistance(TEER)as well as Dextran-fluorescein isothiocyanate(FITC)permeability assays were conducted to assess barrier function.To quantify tight junctions(TJs)such as occludin and zonula occludens-1(ZO-1)at the mRNA level,reverse transcriptionpolymerase chain reaction(RT-PCR)analysis was performed.Immunoblotting was used to examine the activity of the nuclear factor-kappa B(NF-κB)signaling pathway and the production of TJs proteins.Immunofluorescence analyses were employed to localize the TJs.Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA)and RT-PCR were utilized to observe changes in interleukin(IL)-1βlevels.To investigate the role of NF-κB signaling activation and IL^(-1)βin Sema7A’s anti-barrier mechanism,we employed 0.1μmol/L IκB kinase 2(IKK2)inhibitor IV or 500 ng/mL IL^(-1)receptor(IL-1R)antagonist.●RESULTS:Treatment with Sema7A resulted in decreased TEER and increased permeability of Dextran-FITC in HCEs through down-regulating mRNA and protein levels of TJs in a time-and dose-dependent manner,as well as altering the localization of TJs.Furthermore,Sema7A stimulated the activation of inhibitor of kappa B alpha(IκBα)and expression of IL-1β.The anti-barrier function of Sema7A was significantly suppressed by treatment with IKK2 inhibitor IV or IL-1R antagonists.●CONCLUSION:Sema7A disrupts barrier function through its influence on NF-κB-mediated expression of TJ proteins,as well as the expression of IL-1β.These findings suggest that Sema7A could be a potential therapeutic target for the diseases in corneal epithelium.

Commentary on:“Human neural stem cell-derived artificial organelles to improve oxidative phosphorylation”

Mitochondrial function is fundamental to neuroregeneration,particularly in neurons,where high energy demands are essential for repair and recovery(Patrón and Zinsmaier,2016;Beckervordersandforth et al.,2017;Iwata et al.,2023).Mitochondrial dysfunction,characterized by an imbalance in ATP levels and excessive production of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species,is a key factor that impedes neural regeneration in neurodegenerative diseases and after neuronal injury(Han et al.,2016,2020;Zheng et al.,2016;Zong et al.,2024).

Human endogenous retrovirus type-W and multiple sclerosis–related smoldering neuroinflammation

Introduction to human endogenous retrovirus type-W(HERV-W): Genomic inheritance from the past includes retroviral sequences that have been stably incorporated into our genomes and account for up to 8% of human DNA.

Treatment of spinal cord injury with biomaterials and stem cell therapy in non-human primates and humans

Spinal cord injury results in the loss of sensory,motor,and autonomic functions,which almost always produces permanent physical disability.Thus,in the search for more effective treatments than those already applied for years,which are not entirely efficient,researches have been able to demonstrate the potential of biological strategies using biomaterials to tissue manufacturing through bioengineering and stem cell therapy as a neuroregenerative approach,seeking to promote neuronal recovery after spinal cord injury.Each of these strategies has been developed and meticulously evaluated in several animal models with the aim of analyzing the potential of interventions for neuronal repair and,consequently,boosting functional recovery.Although the majority of experimental research has been conducted in rodents,there is increasing recognition of the importance,and need,of evaluating the safety and efficacy of these interventions in non-human primates before moving to clinical trials involving therapies potentially promising in humans.This article is a literature review from databases(PubMed,Science Direct,Elsevier,Scielo,Redalyc,Cochrane,and NCBI)from 10 years ago to date,using keywords(spinal cord injury,cell therapy,non-human primates,humans,and bioengineering in spinal cord injury).From 110 retrieved articles,after two selection rounds based on inclusion and exclusion criteria,21 articles were analyzed.Thus,this review arises from the need to recognize the experimental therapeutic advances applied in non-human primates and even humans,aimed at deepening these strategies and identifying the advantages and influence of the results on extrapolation for clinical applicability in humans.

Human leukocyte antigen and donor-specific antibodies in liver transplantation

In this article,we comment on an article published in a recent issue of the World Journal of Gastroenterology.We specifically focus on the roles of human leukocyte antigen(HLA)and donor-specific antibodies(DSAs)in pediatric liver transpl-antation(LT),as well as the relationship between immune rejection after LT and DSA.Currently,LT remains the standard of care for pediatric patients with end-stage liver disease or severe acute liver failure.However,acute and chronic re-jection continues to be a significant cause of graft dysfunction and loss.HLA mismatch significantly reduces graft survival and increases the risk of acute rejection.Among them,D→R one-way mismatch at three loci was significantly related to graft-versus-host disease incidence after LT.The adverse impact of HLA-DSAs on LT recipients is already established.Therefore,the evaluation of HLA and DSA is crucial in pediatric LT.

Modulation of the Nogo signaling pathway to overcome amyloid-β-mediated neurite inhibition in human pluripotent stem cell-derived neurites

Neuronal cell death and the loss of connectivity are two of the primary pathological mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease.The accumulation of amyloid-βpeptides,a key hallmark of Alzheimer's disease,is believed to induce neuritic abnormalities,including reduced growth,extension,and abnormal growth cone morphology,all of which contribute to decreased connectivity.However,the precise cellular and molecular mechanisms governing this response remain unknown.In this study,we used an innovative approach to demonstrate the effect of amyloid-βon neurite dynamics in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional cultu re systems,in order to provide more physiologically relevant culture geometry.We utilized various methodologies,including the addition of exogenous amyloid-βpeptides to the culture medium,growth substrate coating,and the utilization of human-induced pluripotent stem cell technology,to investigate the effect of endogenous amyloid-βsecretion on neurite outgrowth,thus paving the way for potential future applications in personalized medicine.Additionally,we also explore the involvement of the Nogo signaling cascade in amyloid-β-induced neurite inhibition.We demonstrate that inhibition of downstream ROCK and RhoA components of the Nogo signaling pathway,achieved through modulation with Y-27632(a ROCK inhibitor)and Ibuprofen(a Rho A inhibitor),respectively,can restore and even enhance neuronal connectivity in the presence of amyloid-β.In summary,this study not only presents a novel culture approach that offers insights into the biological process of neurite growth and inhibition,but also proposes a specific mechanism for reduced neural connectivity in the presence of amyloid-βpeptides,along with potential intervention points to restore neurite growth.Thereby,we aim to establish a culture system that has the potential to serve as an assay for measuring preclinical,predictive outcomes of drugs and their ability to promote neurite outgrowth,both generally and in a patient-specific manner.

Effects of P301L-TAU on post-translational modifications of microtubules in human iPSC-derived cortical neurons and TAU transgenic mice

TAU is a microtubule-associated protein that promotes microtubule assembly and stability in the axon.TAU is missorted and aggregated in an array of diseases known as tauopathies.Microtubules are essential for neuronal function and regulated via a complex set of post-translational modifications,changes of which affect microtubule stability and dynamics,microtubule interaction with other proteins and cellular structures,and mediate recruitment of microtubule-severing enzymes.As impairment of microtubule dynamics causes neuronal dysfunction,we hypothesize cognitive impairment in human disease to be impacted by impairment of microtubule dynamics.We therefore aimed to study the effects of a disease-causing mutation of TAU(P301L)on the levels and localization of microtubule post-translational modifications indicative of microtubule stability and dynamics,to assess whether P301L-TAU causes stability-changing modifications to microtubules.To investigate TAU localization,phosphorylation,and effects on tubulin post-translational modifications,we expressed wild-type or P301L-TAU in human MAPT-KO induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neurons(i Neurons)and studied TAU in neurons in the hippocampus of mice transgenic for human P301L-TAU(p R5 mice).Human neurons expressing the longest TAU isoform(2N4R)with the P301L mutation showed increased TAU phosphorylation at the AT8,but not the p-Ser-262 epitope,and increased polyglutamylation and acetylation of microtubules compared with endogenous TAU-expressing neurons.P301L-TAU showed pronounced somatodendritic presence,but also successful axonal enrichment and a similar axodendritic distribution comparable to exogenously expressed 2N4R-wildtype-TAU.P301L-TAU-expressing hippocampal neurons in transgenic mice showed prominent missorting and tauopathy-typical AT8-phosphorylation of TAU and increased polyglutamylation,but reduced acetylation,of microtubules compared with non-transgenic littermates.In sum,P301L-TAU results in changes in microtubule PTMs,suggestive of impairment of microtubule stability.This is accompanied by missorting and aggregation of TAU in mice but not in i Neurons.Microtubule PTMs/impairment may be of key importance in tauopathies.

Expression rates of p16,p53 in head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma based on human-papillomavirus positivity

BACKGROUND The high prevalence of human papillomavirus(HPV)infection in oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma(SCC)is well established,and p16 expression is a strong predictor.HPV-related tumors exhibit unique mechanisms that target p16 and p53 proteins.However,research on HPV prevalence and the combined predictive value of p16 and p53 expression in head and neck cutaneous SCC(HNCSCC),particularly in Asian populations,remains limited.This retrospective study surveyed 62 patients with HNSCC(2011-2020),excluding those with facial warts or other skin cancer.AIM To explore the prevalence of HPV and the predictive value of p16 and p53 expression in HNCSCC in Asian populations.METHODS All patients underwent wide excision and biopsy.Immunohistochemical staining for HPV,p16,and p53 yielded positive and negative results.The relevance of each marker was investigated by categorizing the tumor locations into high-risk and middle-risk zones based on recurrence frequency.RESULTS Of the 62 patients,20(32.26%)were male,with an average age of 82.27 years(range 26-103 years).High-risk included 19 cases(30.65%),with the eyelid and lip being the most common sites(five cases,8.06%).Middle-risk included 43 cases(69.35%),with the cheek being the most common(29 cases,46.77%).The p16 expression was detected in 24 patients(38.71%),p53 expression in 42 patients(72.58%),and HPV in five patients(8.06%).No significant association was found between p16 expression and the presence of HPV(P>0.99),with a positive predictive value of 8.33%.CONCLUSION This study revealed that p16,a surrogate HPV marker in oropharyngeal SCC,is not reliable in HNCSCC,providing valuable insights for further research in Asian populations.

Spatial transcriptomics combined with single-nucleus RNA sequencing reveals glial cell heterogeneity in the human spinal cord

Glial cells play crucial roles in regulating physiological and pathological functions,including sensation,the response to infection and acute injury,and chronic neurodegenerative disorders.Glial cells include astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes in the central nervous system,and satellite glial cells and Schwann cells in the peripheral nervous system.Despite the greater understanding of glial cell types and functional heterogeneity achieved through single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing in animal models,few studies have investigated the transcriptomic profiles of glial cells in the human spinal cord.Here,we used high-throughput single-nucleus RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics to map the cellular and molecular heterogeneity of astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes in the human spinal cord.To explore the conservation and divergence across species,we compared these findings with those from mice.In the human spinal cord,astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes were each divided into six distinct transcriptomic subclusters.In the mouse spinal cord,astrocytes,microglia,and oligodendrocytes were divided into five,four,and five distinct transcriptomic subclusters,respectively.The comparative results revealed substantial heterogeneity in all glial cell types between humans and mice.Additionally,we detected sex differences in gene expression in human spinal cord glial cells.Specifically,in all astrocyte subtypes,the levels of NEAT1 and CHI3L1 were higher in males than in females,whereas the levels of CST3 were lower in males than in females.In all microglial subtypes,all differentially expressed genes were located on the sex chromosomes.In addition to sex-specific gene differences,the levels of MT-ND4,MT2A,MT-ATP6,MT-CO3,MT-ND2,MT-ND3,and MT-CO_(2) in all spinal cord oligodendrocyte subtypes were higher in females than in males.Collectively,the present dataset extensively characterizes glial cell heterogeneity and offers a valuable resource for exploring the cellular basis of spinal cordrelated illnesses,including chronic pain,amyotrophic lateral sclerosis,and multiple sclerosis.

Insights into gastrointestinal manifestation of human immunodeficiency virus:A narrative review

Human immunodeficiency virus(HIV)modifies CD4-positive cells,resulting in immunodeficiency and a wide range of gastrointestinal(GI)manifestations.The burden of HIV-related GI illnesses has significantly evolved with the widespread use of antiretroviral therapy(ART).While ART has effectively reduced the occurrence of opportunistic infections,it has led to an increase in therapy-related GI illnesses.Common esophageal conditions in HIV patients include gastroesophageal reflux disease,idiopathic esophageal ulcers,herpes simplex virus,cytomegalovirus(CMV),and candidal esophagitis.Kaposi’s sarcoma,a hallmark of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome,may affect the entire GI system.Gastritis and peptic ulcer disease are also frequently seen in patients with HIV.Diarrhea,often linked to both opportunistic infections and ART,requires careful evaluation.Bloody diarrhea,often a sign of colitis caused by bacterial infections such as Shigella or Clostridium difficile,is prevalent.Small bowel lymphoma,although rare,is increasing in prevalence.Anorectal disorders,including proctitis,fissures,and anal squamous cell carcinoma,are particularly relevant in homosexual men,underlining the importance of timely diagnosis.This review comprehensively explores the epidemiology,pathogenesis,and treatment considerations for the various GI disorders associated with HIV,highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective treatment to improve outcomes for HIV-infected patients.

The Ecological Landscape with the Integration of Humanistic Culture and Nature Environment —A Case Study of Landscape Transformation in Baoyan Eco-Tourism Garden of Changshu City

Based on the landscape ecology theory,this paper analyzed the ecology concept and the existing misconceptions of landscape design from the perspective of ecology.The misconceptions included the excessive using of ecological concepts,undue emphasis on the natural features of ecology,and endowing landscape with human cultural blindly.Taking Baoyan eco-tourism garden landscape renovation as an example,this study analyzed the superior natural conditions of this garden,the negative status in the current development process which included the conservative development and construction,singleness of entertainment,cultural educational and the other activities,disorder of landscape structure,lack of cultural landscape,weakness of landscape features and the unremarkable competitive advantages.To construct an ecological landscape with integration of humanistic and nature features,this paper proposed "ecological gardens" as the theme,following the design concept which made full integration of creating cultural landscape with the improvement and protection of natural ecological environment.Finally,the author elaborated such kind of ecological landscape from the following 4 aspects,including the integration,protection,restoration,and creation of landscape.

Three-dimensional Culture of Human Airway Epithelium in Matrigel for Evaluation of Human Rhinovirus C and Bocavirus Infections

Objective Newly identified human rhinovirus C （HRV-C） and human bocavirus （HBoV） cannot propagate in vitro in traditional cell culture models; thus obtaining knowledge about these viruses and developing related vaccines are difficult. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a novel platform for the propagation of these types of viruses.Methods A platform for culturing human airway epithelia in a three-dimensional （3D） pattern using Matrigel as scaffold was developed. The features of 3D culture were identified by immunochemical staining and transmission electron microscopy. Nucleic acid levels of HRV-C and HBoV in 3D cells at designated time points were quantitated by real-time polymerase chain reaction {PCR）. Levels of cytokines, whose secretion was induced by the viruses, were measured by ELISA.Results Properties of bronchial-like tissues, such as the expression of biomarkers CK5, ZO-2, and PCK, and the development of cilium-like protuberances indicative of the human respiration tract, were observed in 3D-cultured human airway epithelial （HAE） cultures, but not in monolayer-cultured cells. Nucleic acid levels of HRV-C and HBoV and levels of virus-induced cytokines were also measured using the 3D culture system.Conclusion Our data provide a preliminary indication that the 3D culture model of primary epithelia using a Matrigel scaffold in vitro can be used to propagate HRV-C and HBoV.

Hexabromocyclododecane-induced Genotoxicity in Cultured Human Breast Cells through DNA Damage

To investigate the genotoxicity and reveal the potential toxicological mechanisms of Hexabromocyclododecane （HBCD）, human breast cells HBL-100 were exposed to a sequence of HBCD concentrations （0, 5, 10, and 50 mg/L） for 24 h. With a series of zymology and molecular biology methods, we found that HBCD induced dose-dependent oxidative stress on HBL-100 DNA. As revealed in q RT-PCR, activated prognostic factor ATM down-regulated tumor suppressor gene BRCA1 and prompted DNA repair genes h OGG1 and h MTH1 expression in lower concentrations of HBCD （〈 10 mg/L）. However, DNA repair were inhibited as well as cell proliferation rate by higher concentrations of HBCD （50 mg/L）. The results inferred that the genotoxicity of HBCD was dose-dependent and related to DNA repair pathway.

Evaluation on Sensitivity of the Human Sperm Motility Assay for Detecting Endotoxin in Culture Medium

Objective To investigate the sensitivity of the human sperm motility assay for detecting endotoxin in culture mediumMaterials &. Methods Motile sperm were separated and exposed to different concentrations of endotoxin (0.5 ng/mL, 1ng/mL, 10ng/mL, 1000ng/mL, 10 000ng/ mL, and 50 000ng/mL), and sperm motility was determined after incubation. Effects of endotoxin on sperm motility in media without albumin were also examined. In addition, at the same concentrations of endotoxin (0. 5ng/mL, 1 ng/mL, and 10 ng/ mL ) , the sensitivity of the human sperm motility assay was compared to those of 1-cell and 2-cell mouse embryo bioassays.Results At levels of 0. 5ng/mL-1000ng/mL endotoxin in media with 2mg/mL albumin, sperm did not show significant change in motility during 24 h of incubation when compared with the control (P>0. 05). However, the sperm motility was significantly inhibited at endotoxin dosages of 10 000 and 50 000 ng/mL. In the absence of albumin supplementation, at endotoxin levels of 50 000ng/mL, and 1 000ng/mL, there was a marked decrease in sperm motility compared with the control after 2 h or 8 h of incubation, respectively (P<0. 01). In media containing 0. 5 ng/mL and 1 ng/ mL endotoxin, 1-cell and 2-cell mouse embryos had significantly reduced developmental rates in all developmental stages, and at the level of 10ng/mL, the development of the embryos was arrested. Conclusion The human sperm motility assay could detect high levels of endotoxin in culture medium but its sensitivity to endotoxin would be inferior to that of the 1-cell or 2-cell mouse embryo bioassay. In the absence of albumin supplementation, the sensitivity of the sperm motility assay could be improved.

Comparison of direct fecal smear microscopy,culture,and polymerase chain reaction for the detection of Blastocystis sp.in human stool samples

Objective:To compare the sensitivity and specificity of direct fecal smear microscopy,culture,and polymerase chain reaction in the detection of Blastocystis sp.in human stool.Methods:Human stool samples were collected from a community in San Isidro,Rodriguez,Rizal,Philippines.These samples were subjected to direct fecal smear microscopy,culture and polymerase chain reaction to detect the presence of Blastocystis sp.Results:Of the 110 stool samples collected,28(25%)were detected positive for the presence of Blastocystis sp.by two or more tests.Culture method detected the highest number of Blastocystis-positive stool samples(n=36),followed by PCR of DNA extracted from culture(n=26),PCR of DNA extracted from stool(n=10),and direct fecal smear(n=9).Compared to culture,the sensitivity of the other detection methods were 66.7%for PCR from culture and 19.4%for both PCR from stool and direct fecal smear.Specificity of the methods was high,with PCR from culture and direct fecal smear having97.3%,while PCR from stool at 95.9%.Conclusions:In this study,in vitro culture is the best method for detecting Blastocystis sp.in human stool samples.

Hepatitis B virus infection and replication in primarily cultured human fetal hepatocytes

AIM: To investigate the infection and replication of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in primarily cultured human fetal hepatocytes (HFHs). METHODS: The human fetal hepatocytes were cultured in serum-free medium, HBV-positive serum was added into the medium to study the susceptibility of hepatocytes to HBV infection. The supernatant was collected for ELISA assay of HBsAg and HBeAg, and quantitative fluorescence PCR for HBV-DNA assay daily. Albumin and HBcAg, CK8 and CK18 expressions were detected by immunohistochemistry in cultured hepatocytes. Content of lactate dehydrogenate (LDH) was measured to find out the integrity of the cell membrane. RESULTS: A stable hepatocyte culture system was established. HBV could infect the hepatocytes and replicate, and HBcAg expression could be detected by immunohistochemistry in hepatocyte-like cells. HBV- DNA in the supernatant could be detected from d 2 to d 18 and HBsAg and HBeAg were positive on d 3-d 18 after HBV infection. HBV in medium increased from d 0 to d 6 and subsequently decreased as the cells were progressively loosing their hepatocyte phenotypes. CONCLUSION: HBV could infect human fetal hepato- cytes and replicate. This in vitro model allowed a detailed study on early events associated with human HBV entry into cells and subsequent replication.

Glutathione peroxidase activity in cell cultures from different regions of human epididymis

Aim: To study the secretory activity and androgen regulation of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in epithelial cell cultures from human epididymis. Methods: Tissue was obtained from patients undergoing therapeutic orchidectomy for prostatic cancer. Epithelial cell cultures were obtained from the caput, corpus and cauda epididymides. Enzymatic activity was measured in conditioned media by colorimetric methods in absence or presence of 1, 10 or 100 nrnoI.L^(-1) testosterone. The effect of 1 μmol.L^(-1) flutamide was also evaluated. Results: GPx activity was higher in cultures from corpus and cauda than caput epididymidis. The presence of different concentrations of testosterone increase enzyme activity in cell cultures from all epididymal regions. Addition of flutamide reverses the androgen dependent increase of GPx activity. Conclusion: GPx activity is secreted from human epididymal cells in a region dependent manner and is regulated by androgens.

Isolation and Identification of Cancer Stem Cells from Human Osteosarcom by Serum-free Three-dimensional Culture Combined with Anticancer Drugs

The cancer stem cells(CSCs)from human osteosarcoma by serum-free three-dimensional culture combined with anticancer drugs were isolated and identified.The primary cells derived from human osteosarcoma were digested by trypsin to prepare a single-cell suspension,and mixed homogeneously into 1.2% alginate gel.Single-cell alginate gel was cultured with serum-free DMEM/F12 medium.Epirubicin(0.8μg/mL)was added to the medium to enrich CSCs.After cultured conventionally for 7 to 10 days,most of cells suspended in ...