Proteomic analysis of chondromodulin-I-induced differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into chondrocytes.

To identify novel proteins that might help clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying chondromodulin-I (ChM-I) induction of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) differentiate into chondrocytes. MSCs are triggered to differentiate into chondrocytes, which are recognized as important factors in cartilage tissue engineering. ChM-I is a glycoprotein that stimulates the growth of chondrocytes and inhibits angiogenesis in vitro.

Using bovine pituitary extract to increase proliferation of keratocytes and maintain their phenotype in vitro.

Aim: To investigate the effects of bovine pituitary extract on the proliferation of keratocytes and maintaining the keratocyte phenotype in vitro.

Methods: Single keratocytes were isolated by enzyme digestion for in vitro culture. Three groups were designed according to the different culture media: a bovine pituitary extract (BPE) group, a fetal bovine serum (FBS) group and the control group.

[Comparison of the activities of silver nitrate with those of three antifungal agents against ocular pathogenic fungi in vitro].

Objective: To investigate antifungal activity of silver nitrate compared with fluconazole, ketoconazole and amphotericin B against ocular pathogenic fungi in vitro.

Methods: It was an experimental study. Susceptibility tests were performed against 260 isolates (15 genera and 29 species) of ocular pathogenic fungi by broth dilution antifungal susceptibility testing of filamentous fungi (M38-A) approved by National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS).