Molecular cloning and expression of RPE65, a novel retinal pigment epithelium-specific microsomal protein that is post-transcriptionally regulated in vitro.

Studies reported previously from this laboratory have shown that microsomal membranes of the vertebrate retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) contain an RPE-specific 65-kDa protein, RPE65, which bears the determinant recognized by the strictly tissue-specific monoclonal antibody RPE9, and which is developmentally regulated (Hamel, C. P., Tsilou, E.

A developmentally regulated microsomal protein specific for the pigment epithelium of the vertebrate retina.

In the vertebrate retina, the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) performs specific functions critical to the normal process of vision. Although some of these functions are well documented, molecular data are still scarce. Using the RPE-specific monoclonal antibody RPE9, raised against human RPE cells, we have identified a novel 65 kD protein, conserved in mammals, birds, and frogs.

Measurement of development of endomycorrhizal mycelium using three different vital stains.

The extraradical hyphae of Glomus intraradices Schenck & Smith associated with a mixture of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L. cv. Saranac) and bromegrass (Bromus inermis Leyss.

Murine coronavirus induces an acute and long-lasting disease of the retina.

The ability of the coronavirus mouse hepatitis virus, strain JHM, to grow in the retinas of BALB/c mice was examined. Inoculation into the vitreous chamber produced significant changes. Immunoperoxidase staining of frozen sections with either monoclonal or polyclonal antiserum revealed coronaviral antigens in the iris, ciliary body, and a few ganglion cells on day 1.

Evaluation of Ia expression in rat ocular tissues following inoculation with interferon-gamma.

It is becoming increasingly clear that IFN-gamma is a potent immunoregulatory protein which influences MHC class II (Ia) antigen expression and cellular functions of B cells, T cells, NK cells and macrophages. During the past 5 yr our laboratory has provided evidence that IFN-gamma modulates class II antigens on retinal cells (retinal pigment epithelial cells, endothelial cells) and is localized within the eye during human inflammatory conditions. In this study we evaluate the direct effect of IFN-gamma on ocular tissue.

Development and characterization of monoclonal antibodies directed against the retinal pigment epithelial cell.

The retinal pigment epithelium consists of a unicellular layer of neuroepithelial cells that are essential for the maintenance of normal function of the neural retina. In order to evaluate more critically this cell in health and disease, we prepared monoclonal antibodies against human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells. Balb/c mice were immunized with human RPE cells.

Nonspecific immunoglobulin E in aqueous humor: evaluation in uveitis.

The levels of immunoglobulin E (IgE) in aqueous humor (AH) and serum were determined in 74 uveitis patients and 13 control patients with senile cataract. Uveitis patients' levels ranged from less than 0.06 to 460 IU/ml according to the paper radioimmunosorbent test (PRIST; limit of sensitivity, 0.

[A misunderstood treatment for hyperhidrosis: ionization. Principles, material, methodology, early results].

Based on a new and specific apparatus developed by one of the authors, an original method of treatment of palmoplantar hyperhidrosis, either essential or associated with acrocyanosis, is described in detail. The extremities to be treated are placed in tanks containing tap water ensuring conduction fo current between epidermis and electrode. The recommended current of 20 milli-amperes is obtained by adjustment of a potentiometer.

Isolated autosomal recessive renal magnesium loss in two sisters.

A familial autosomal recessive form of isolated renal magnesium loss is presented. Two children in this family suffered from convulsions unrelated to hypomagnesemia. Magnesium infusion studies revealed a lowered threshold but a normal tubular maximum for magnesium.

[Ionophoresis: effective and misunderstood treatment in hyperhidrosis. Principles, material, methodology and results].

The development of a modern and specific device, using the principle of ionophoresis, enables now to treat a symptom, sometimes severely disabling, before which physicians felt helpless until now: hyperhidrosis. The methodology is simple, and the treatment well tolerated. The efficacy, demonstrated by our study, is particularly impressive, if a strict protocol is followed.

Treatment of bilateral spontaneous dural carotid-cavernous fistulas by coils and sclerotherapy. Case report.

A case of bilateral spontaneous carotid-cavernous fistulas producing increased intraocular pressure is reported. The fistulas lay between the meningeal branches of the internal carotid artery (ICA) and the cavernous sinus, but the ICA itself was not involved. Successful treatment was accomplished by the introduction of steel coils and a sclerotic liquid into the cavernous sinus via the distal superior ophthalmic vein.