Keratoacanthoma formation after skin grafting: A brief report and pathophysiological hypothesis.

Keratoacanthoma formation after skin grafting is rare. We report the third case in the literature of multiple keratoacanthomas developed at both split-thickness skin graft donor and recipient sites. We provide possible explanations for this poorly understood phenomenon and highlight its implications on treatment options.

A case of adrenal insufficiency secondary to syphilis and difficulties in the diagnostic work-up.

We report a case of Addison's disease presumed to be secondary to syphilis. The patient presented with adrenal failure and a maculopapular rash on his trunk and palms. Syphilis was suspected but the non-treponemal serological test used (the rapid plasma reagin test (RPR)) was falsely negative due to the prozone phenomenon.

An extracellular transglutaminase is required for apple pollen tube growth.

An extracellular form of the calcium-dependent protein-cross-linking enzyme TGase (transglutaminase) was demonstrated to be involved in the apical growth of Malus domestica pollen tube. Apple pollen TGase and its substrates were co-localized within aggregates on the pollen tube surface, as determined by indirect immunofluorescence staining and the in situ cross-linking of fluorescently labelled substrates. TGase-specific inhibitors and an anti-TGase monoclonal antibody blocked pollen tube growth, whereas incorporation of a recombinant fluorescent mammalian TGase substrate (histidine-tagged green fluorescent protein: His6-Xpr-GFP) into the growing tube wall enhanced tube length and germination, consistent with a role of TGase as a modulator of cell wall building and strengthening.