Serial analysis of gene expression reveals differential expression between endometriosis and normal endometrium. Possible roles for AXL and SHC1 in the pathogenesis of endometriosis

<p>Abstract</p> <p>Background</p> <p>Endometriosis is a clinical condition that affects up to 10% of the women of reproductive age. Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrial tissues outside the uterine cavity and can lead to chronic pelvic pain, infertility and, in some cases, to ovarian cancer.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>In order to better understand the pathogenesis of endometriosis, we have used Serial Analysis of Gene Expression (SAGE) to identify genes differentially in this disease by studying three endometriotic tissues and a normal endometrium sample. Promising candidates (AXL, SHC1, ACTN4, PI3KCA, p-AKT, p-mTOR, and p-ERK) were independently validated by immunohistochemistry in additional normal and endometriotic tissues.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>We identified several genes differentially expressed between endometriosis and normal endometrium. IGF2, ACTN4, AXL, and SHC1 were among the most upregulated genes. Comparison of the endometriosis gene expression profiles with the gene expression patterns observed in normal human tissues allowed the identification of endometriosis-specific genes, which included several members of the MMP family (MMP1,2,3,10,11,14). Immunohistochemical analysis of several candidates confirmed the SAGE findings, and suggested the involvement of the PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways in endometriosis.</p> <p>Conclusion</p> <p>In human endometriosis, the PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways may be activated via overexpression of AXL and SHC1, respectively. These genes, as well as others identified as differentially expressed in this study, may be useful for the development of novel strategies for the detection and/or therapy of endometriosis.</p

Estabelecimento e multiplicação in vitro de segmento nodal de Sucupira branca (Pterodon pubescens Benth.).

Resumo de trabalho apresentado no 7º Congresso Brasileiro de Fisiologia Vegetal, Brasília, julho 1999

Germinação de semente, embrião e eixo embrionário de sucupira branca (Pterodon pubescens Benth.) in vitro.

Resumo de trabalho apresentado no 7º Congresso Brasileiro de Fisiologia Vegetal, Brasília, julho 1999

An ultra-broadband optical system for ALMA Band 2+3

ALMA is the largest radio astronomical facility in the world providing high sensitivity between 35 and 950 GHz, divided in 10 bands with fractional bandwidths between 19 and 36%. Having a lifespan of at least 30 years, ALMA carries out a permanent upgrading plan which, for the receivers, is focused on achieving better sensitivity and larger bandwidths. As result, an international consortium works on demonstrating a prototype receiver covering currents Bands 2 and 3 (67 to 116 GHz) which corresponds to a fractional bandwidth of 54%. Here we present the preliminary design, implementation and characterization of suitable refractive optics. Results indicate an excellent performance in good agreement with simulations

Vitamin D and Bone Health; Potential Mechanisms

Osteoporosis is associated with increased morbidity, mortality and significant economic and health costs. Vitamin D is a secosteriod hormone essential for calcium absorption and bone mineralization which is positively associated with bone mineral density [BMD]. It is well-established that prolonged and severe vitamin D deficiency leads to rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Sub-optimal vitamin D status has been reported in many populations but it is a particular concern in older people; thus there is clearly a need for effective strategies to optimise bone health. A number of recent studies have suggested that the role of vitamin D in preventing fractures may be via its mediating effects on muscle function (a defect in muscle function is one of the classical signs of rickets) and inflammation. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin D supplementation can improve muscle strength which in turn contributes to a decrease in incidence of falls, one of the largest contributors to fracture incidence. Osteoporosis is often considered to be an inflammatory condition and pro-inflammatory cytokines have been associated with increased bone metabolism. The immunoregulatory mechanisms of vitamin D may thus modulate the effect of these cytokines on bone health and subsequent fracture risk. Vitamin D, therefore, may influence fracture risk via a number of different mechanisms