Antigenic profile of human recombinant PrP: generation and chracterization of a versatile polyclonal antiserum

We describe the quality of a rabbit polyclonal antiserum (Sal1) that was raised against mature human recombinant prion protein (rhuPrP). Epitope mapping demonstrated that the Sal1 antiserum recognized six to eight linear antigenic sites, depending on the animal species. The versatility of the antiserum was evident from the range of animal species and immunochemical techniques where it could be applied successfully. Antigen absorption studies revealed differences in the location and number of epitopes remaining after incubation with soluble or aggregated antigen. Our knowledge concerning immunoprophylaxis against prion diseases and the important role played by conformational changes of PrP is increasing rapidly. The findings reported here should add to this body of knowledge

Expression of cellular prion protein (PrP(c)) in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression

Cellular prion protein (PrP(c)) is a copper-binding, membrane-attached GPI-anchored glycoprotein characterized by a high degree of amino acid sequence conservation among mammals. PrP(c) expression has been demonstrated in neurons, microglia, lymphocytes, and keratinocytes. Recently, the concept that PrP(c) may be involved in the defense against oxidative stress was advanced. In the present study, we used immunohistochemistry for PrP(c) to investigate 60 brains from the Stanley Neuropathology Consortium (15 controls, 15 patients with schizophrenia, 15 with bipolar disorder, and 15 with major depression). Rating scores as well as the numerical density of PrP(c)-positive and -negative neurons and glial cells were determined in the cingulate gyrus. All four groups showed a very high interindividual variation. PrP(c)-positive glial cells were significantly reduced in the white matter of patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression. A similar result was obtained for the white matter in bipolar patients using rating scales. From the confounding variables, use of medication (i.e. antipsychotics, antidepressants, and mood stabilizers) had a significant effect on the expression of PrP(c) by neurons and glial cells. PrP(c)-immunoreactivities were significantly reduced for white matter glial cells in all examined groups. However, the results are not indicative for the occurrence of oxidative stress in the brains of schizophrenic and bipolar patients. Since the effect of antipsychotic and antidepressant medication as well as of mood stabilizers on the expression of PrP(c) was significant, it needs further clarification in experimental models

Thymosin beta4 and angiogenesis: modes of action and therapeutic potential.

Here we review the mechanisms by which Thymosin beta4 (Tbeta4) regulates angiogenesis, its role in processes, such as wound healing and tumour progression and we discuss in more detail the role of Tbeta4 in the cardiovascular system and significant recent findings implicating Tbeta4 as a potential therapeutic agent for ischaemic heart disease