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M Buchwald

Publications and source records attributed to M Buchwald.

At least 73 records · Page 4Linked to original sources

Estrogen-dependent expression of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator gene in a novel uterine epithelial cell line.

We have demonstrated previously the modulation of CFTR expression by estrogen in vivo in the rat uterine epithelium. The purpose of this study was to establish a suitable in vitro system to investigate the regulation of CFTR by steroid hormones. Primary cultures of rat uterine epithelial cells, which showed high levels of CFTR expression in vitro, were infected with an adeno/SV40 virus. One clone, UIT 1.16, which retained the morphology of the primary epithelial cells yet proliferated beyond the life span of the primary culture, was isolated and characterized. Successful immortalization of UIT 1.16 cells was verified by the presence of a band corresponding to the SV40 large T-antigen in western blots, as well as by their ability to proliferate continuously. Transmission electron microscopy studies revealed that these cells maintained the characteristics of a polarized epithelium with well-established membrane domains and specialized intercellular junctions. A high transepithelial electrical resistance was also observed when cells were assayed in modified Ussing chambers. When the basolateral cellular membrane of cells grown in vitrogen-coated filters was permeabilized with nystatin, a forskolin-stimulated Cl- permeability was observed in the apical membrane, similar to that present in other CFTR-expressing epithelial cells. UIT 1.16 cells showed high levels of CFTR expression on northern blots. The expression of CFTR was dependent on the presence of estrogen in the culture medium, since almost undetectable levels of CFTR mRNA were observed when the cells were cultured in medium containing serum depleted of steroid hormones. However, addition of estrogen to this medium prevented the disappearance of CFTR mRNA, confirming estrogen-regulated expression of CFTR in the UIT 1.16 cell line. The newly developed UIT 1.16 cell line provides a valuable model to analyze the regulation of CFTR expression by steroid hormones. Moreover, the cell line could also be used to investigate the role of CFTR in the uterus during the normal female cycle as well as for the study of other uterine epithelial functions and the agents that regulate them.

Adenoviridae↗

Differential cellular expression of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator in human reproductive tissues. Clues for the infertility in patients with cystic fibrosis.

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is characterized by a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, including reproductive problems. Practically all males affected by the disease are infertile due to azoospermia associated with pathology of the male ducts, whereas females with CF have reduced fertility. To study the mechanism of reproductive pathology in CF patients, we analyzed the levels and localization of expression of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) gene in relevant postnatal tissues. Significant expression was detected in the epithelium of the epididymis and vas deferens. Minimal expression, not associated with specific cell types, was seen in the mature testis. In female genitalia, variable levels of expression were seen in the cervical epithelium and fallopian tube. The endometrial epithelium and glands expressed CFTR at high levels only after puberty. No expression was seen in ovaries. Deficient secretory function of CFTR in males but not in females may lead to organ damage probably as a consequence of excessive concentration of viscid luminal contents.

Adult↗

Mapping of the murine and rat Facc genes and assessment of flexed-tail as a candidate mouse homolog of Fanconi anemia group C.

Fanconi anemia is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder characterized at the cellular level by a combination of hypersensitivity to DNA-damaging agents and chromosomal instability. Clinical features include pancytopenia, often associated with specific congenital malformations, and a predisposition to leukemia. We previously cloned the gene defective in Fanconi anemia group C by complementation of the intrinsic sensitivity of Fanconi anemia cells to DNA cross-linking agents, and we recently cloned its mouse homolog (Facc). In this report, we localized Facc to mouse Chromosome (Chr) 13 and its rat homolog to rat Chr 17. A previously described anemic mouse mutant, flexed-tail, maps to the same chromosomal region. Differences were detected between DNA of the flexed-tail and congenic mice, indicating the proximity of the Facc probe to the disease mutation. Analysis of flexed-tail RNA did not reveal detectable difference in Facc message level or size between flexed-tail and congenic mice. On this basis, we conclude that, although flexed-tail remains a candidate for Fanconi anemia in the mouse, there is no evidence currently that Facc is mutated in flexed-tail mice.

Animals↗

Mammalian DNA-repair genes.

The sequence and functional homology of certain genes between mammalian and non-mammalian eukaryotes has facilitated significant advances in our understanding of mammalian DNA repair. Several novel DNA damage and repair genes have been identified by using a variety of approaches. Study of these genes will lead to an increased understanding of the biological consequences of aberrant DNA maintenance in humans and other species.

Animals↗

Recent advances in cystic fibrosis research.

After the discovery of the gene, the next major landmark will be the elucidation of the basic defect of the disorder, which should lead to rational treatments. The accumulating knowledge of mutations and phenotypes allows more accurate testing and screening in selected populations. Considerable information is now available both on the pattern of gene and protein expression in the tissues involved in the disease and on the complex regulation and function of CFTR. In addition, an animal model with which to test therapeutic strategies has become available. Finally, two potential ways to cure the disease have emerged: that which exploits our knowledge of the normal and the mutant protein and their function, and that based on gene therapy. The latter approach is probably beginning to be tested on small groups of patients, and proof of its effectiveness is eagerly awaited.

Animals↗

CFTR expression is regulated during both the cycle of the seminiferous epithelium and the oestrous cycle of rodents.

Severely reduced fertility is a common finding in cystic fibrosis (CF). We used in situ hybridization to examine the cell-specific expression of CFTR in the reproductive organs of rodents. In males CFTR mRNA is found in the round spermatids (spermatogenic stages V-X) and in the principal cells that line the initial segment of the epididymis. In both the testis and the epididymis, CFTR expression is developmentally regulated suggesting that the defect in the genital tract of male CF patients is of developmental origin. CFTR expression in the luminal and glandular epithelium of the uterus is regulated during the oestrous cycle and is maximal at pro-oestrus. Our results provide a biological rationale for the reduced fertility of CF patients, and suggest a possible cause for the comparatively poorer prognosis for women with CF.

Animals↗

Characterisation of the exon structure of the Fanconi anaemia group C gene by vectorette PCR.

A cDNA for Fanconi anaemia complementation group C (FACC) has recently been cloned. We have now isolated a yeast artificial chromosome clone containing the FACC gene, and used vectorette PCR to determine its exon structure. The 1674-nucleotide coding sequence of the gene is highly interrupted, and contains 14 exons ranging in size from 53-204 bp. All exon donor and acceptor splice sites fit well with consensus sequences. Knowledge of the FACC exon boundaries and adjacent intron sequences was used to design polymerase chain reactions for amplification of all 14 exons from genomic DNA. Characterisation of splice site mutations in Fanconi anaemia patients with abnormal FACC transcripts and screening of large numbers of patients for mutations by amplification of the coding sequence from genomic DNA will now be possible.

Base Sequence↗

A Leu554-to-Pro substitution completely abolishes the functional complementing activity of the Fanconi anemia (FACC) protein.

Three cDNA transcripts corresponding to complementation group C of Fanconi anemia (FA) were recently cloned. We confirm that the correct reading frame was reported and that a protein of an apparent molecular mass of 60 kDa is translated. A T-to-C transition at base 1,661 in the open reading frame is the only change found to date in the FA(C) cell line, resulting in a codon substitution from leucine554 to proline. Using site directed in vitro mutagenesis, we demonstrate that this mutation completely abolishes the activity of the FACC protein as analyzed by functional complementation assay. The physiological significance of this mutation is thus confirmed.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Cell-specific localization of CFTR mRNA shows developmentally regulated expression in human fetal tissues.

An improved understanding of the expression of the cystic fibrosis gene (CFTR) will assist our approach to preventing the organ damage caused by cystic fibrosis (CF). We have studied the expression of CFTR in human fetal tissues at different gestational ages using in situ hybridization to detect CFTR mRNA. CFTR was principally expressed in less differentiated cells of endodermal origin. The highest levels were seen in specific areas of the developing pancreas, liver, gall bladder and intestine, with lower but significant levels in lung and trachea. Expression was also seen in reproductive tissues, such as epididymis and third trimester uterus and fallopian tubes, and in addition, sweat and salivary glands. No detection of CFTR mRNA was found in many other relevant tissues. The detection of CFTR transcript in these organs is consistent with the clinical manifestations of CF and the function of CFTR as a chloride channel early in development. The localization and levels of expression described have implications regarding the pathogenesis of organ damage and the potential gains that can be achieved by early therapy in the disease.

Cystic Fibrosis↗

Cloning and analysis of the murine Fanconi anemia group C cDNA.

Fanconi anemia (FA) is one of a group of disorders characterized at the cellular level by a combination of hypersensitivity to DNA-damaging agents, chromosomal instability, and defective DNA repair. Clinical features of FA include pancytopenia, often accompanied by specific congenital malformations, and a predisposition to leukemia. Since the hematological manifestations are the critical defect in terms of prognosis, FA is a candidate disease for gene replacement therapy, and the development of a mouse model system is essential for the initial stages of this work. Previously, we have cloned the gene defective in FA group C by complementation of the intrinsic sensitivity of FA cells to DNA cross-linking agents. We have now cloned the murine homologue of the human FACC cDNA. The mouse cDNA (Facc) shares 79% amino acid sequence similarity with the human gene product. The expression of the mouse cDNA in human FA(C) cells restores the cellular drug sensitivity to normal levels. Thus, the function of the protein has been conserved despite the significant sequence divergence. PCR analysis of mouse tissue RNA reveals that the gene is expressed in all adult tissues, while in situ RNA hybridization experiments show tissue specific expression at late stages of fetal development. Cross-hybridizing sequences exist in DNA from other mammals, chicken and Drosophila. These results support the hypothesis that the FACC gene product has a role in a basic aspect of cellular protection against DNA damaging agents and that this function has been conserved during evolution.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

A nonsense mutation and exon skipping in the Fanconi anaemia group C gene.

Fanconi anaemia (FA) is an autosomal recessive disorder associated with bone-marrow failure and hypersensitivity to DNA cross-linking agents. At least four complementation groups have been defined, and a cDNA which corrects the defect in group C cells (FACC) has recently been isolated. We have screened the FACC coding sequence for mutations in FA patients and found one patient to be homozygous for a nonsense mutation in exon 6 of the FACC coding sequence (R185X). Exon 6 was spliced out of a proportion of this patient's transcripts, providing further support for the proposal that nonsense mutations may alter splice site selection. Alternatively spliced transcripts which lacked exon 13 were detected in both patients and controls.

Base Sequence↗

Stimulation of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator expression by estrogen in vivo.

Changing levels of cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) expression in the rat uterus during the estrous cycle have been reported by our laboratory. To understand the regulation of CFTR in the female reproductive tract, we investigated the modulation of CFTR expression by sexual hormones in reproductive tissues. Administration of PMSG to immature females, which showed no uterine CFTR messenger RNA by in situ hybridization, stimulated CFTR expression in the uterine epithelium 48 h post injection, coincident with the PMSG-induced peak in follicular estradiol. Twelve hours after administration of 17 beta-estradiol to immature and ovariectomized mature females, but not after progesterone injection, uterine CFTR expression was detected. CFTR messenger RNA was also found in the normal adult oviduct, being undetectable after ovariectomy and reappearing after estrogen treatment. On Western blots, a band of the predicted mol wt of CFTR was found in uterine and oviductal membrane preparations from estrogen-treated animals. Using an immunoperoxidase assay, apical labeling was observed in uterine and oviductal epithelial cells of estrogen-treated rats, similar to that reported for CFTR in Cl(-)-secreting epithelia. These results describe for the first time the hormonal up-regulation of CFTR in vivo, implying estrogen as a physiological regulator of CFTR in the female reproductive tract.

Animals↗

Characterization of a set of Chinese hamster ovary variant cell lines demonstrating differing sensitivity to mitomycin C.

Three related Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cell lines derived from CHO-K1R cells (MMC3-A2, 21-1 and G1B) previously shown to differ in their sensitivity to mitomycin C (MMC), were investigated in more detail to determine the factors controlling this sensitivity. A separately maintained wild type cell line (CHO-K1TOR) was included in this study for comparison. Continuous (chronic) exposure of the five cell lines to MMC during the 10-day colony forming assay demonstrated a 15-fold range in MMC sensitivity between the most sensitive cell line (MMC3-A2) and the most resistant cell line (G1B) with CHO-K1R, 21-1 and CHO-K1TOR falling at intermediate levels. Acute aerobic exposure (0-5 h) to MMC resulted in a reduced fivefold range of sensitivities, which was further reduced to a three-fold range under hypoxic exposure conditions. These results were suggestive of differences in the aerobic enzymatic activation of MMC as a possible mechanism contributing to the varying sensitivities. There was no correlation between the one-electron reducing enzyme NADPH:cytochrome P-450 oxidoreductase (P450R) activity and cellular sensitivity to MMC. The five cell lines had similar levels of reduced glutathione (GSH), suggesting that oxygen homeostasis was not correlated with the cells, differing sensitivity to MMC. A correlation did exist between NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase (DT-diaphorase) activity and cellular sensitivity to MMC under chronic exposure conditions for the cell lines. High DT-diaphorase levels were also correlated with a reduced ability of oxygen to modulate MMC toxicity. Levels of P450R and DT-diaphorase were not altered significantly during five-hour aerobic or hypoxic exposures of control cells.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Animals↗

Cloning of cDNAs for Fanconi's anaemia by functional complementation.

Fanconi's anaemia is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by progressive pancytopaenia and a cellular hypersensitivity to DNA crosslinking agents. Four genetic complementation groups have been identified so far, and here we use a functional complementation method to clone complementary DNAs that correct the defect of group C cells. The cDNAs encode alternatively processed transcripts of a new gene, designated FACC, which is mutated in group C patients. The predicted FACC polypeptide does not contain any motifs common to other proteins and so represents a new gene involved in the cellular response to DNA damage.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Regulation of CFTR expression and function during differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells.

CFTR, the protein defective in cystic fibrosis is regulated during differentiation of intestinal epithelial cells. The undifferentiated cells (Caco-2 and HT-29) show a lower level of CFTR mRNA, while a 10-fold increase is seen in differentiated cells. These differences correlate well with those of other intestinal-specific genes, including sucrase-isomaltase, villin and alpha 1-antitrypsin, indicating that the regulation is cell specific. In Caco-2 cells the increase in CFTR mRNA cannot be accounted for by increased transcription of the gene. These data indicate that CFTR mRNA stabilizing factor(s) might be present in differentiated cells. The higher levels of CFTR mRNA in differentiated cells are accompanied by decreased protein levels, indicating, as well, involvement of translational control in the regulation of CFTR in these cells. Finally, fully differentiated cells show lowered levels of cyclic AMP-activated C1- transport, the characteristic function of CFTR. Thus, CFTR function in differentiated cells is modulated by a complex interaction of regulatory elements. Caco-2 and HT-29 cells provide a suitable in vitro system in which to study the mechanism of regulation of CFTR.

Blotting, Western↗