Long-term functions of encapsulated islets grafted in nonhuman primates without immunosuppression.

Background: Long-term survival and functions of encapsulated islet grafts need to be evaluated in the absence of immunosuppression. The present study aimed to assess the viability and functions of macroencapsulated islets grafted in nonhuman primates without immunosuppression for 1 year.

Methods: Islet transplantations were performed in partially pancreatectomized rhesus monkeys (two autologous and four allogenic) without immunosuppression using immunoisolatory devices.

BMPR2 expression is suppressed by signaling through the estrogen receptor.

Background: Studies in multiple organ systems have shown cross-talk between signaling through the bone morphogenetic protein receptor type 2 (BMPR2) and estrogen pathways. In humans, pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) has a female predominance, and is associated with decreased BMPR2 expression. The goal of this study was to determine if estrogens suppress BMPR2 expression.

Identification of circulating CD90 CD73 cells in cirrhosis of liver.

Aim: To identify circulating CD90(+) CD73(+) CD45(-) cells and evaluate their in vitro proliferating abilities.

Methods: Patients with cirrhosis (n = 43), and healthy volunteers (n = 40) were recruited to the study. Mononuclear cells were isolated and cultured from the peripheral blood of controls and cirrhosis patients.

Visceral adipose tissue visfatin in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Background: Visfatin is a novel adipocytokine predominantly expressed and secreted by visceral adipose tissue. It is realized for its multiple functions of central importance in NAD biosynthesis, innate immunity and inflammation. Its phosphoribosyl transferase activity regulates cellular energetics and NAD dependent enzymes such as SIRTUINS.

Heterozygosity for a surfactant protein C gene mutation associated with usual interstitial pneumonitis and cellular nonspecific interstitial pneumonitis in one kindred.

Familial pulmonary fibrosis is a heterogeneous group of interstitial lung diseases of unknown cause that is associated with multiple pathologic subsets. Mutations in the surfactant protein C (SP-C) gene (SFTPC) are associated with familial desquamative and nonspecific interstitial pneumonitis. Genetic studies in familial usual interstitial pneumonitis have been inconclusive.