Reprogramming Bone Marrow Stem Cells to Functional Endothelial Cells in a Mini Pig Animal Model.

BACKGROUND The aims of this study were to compare the morphological, biochemical, and functional properties of reprogrammed bone marrow stem cell (BMSC)-derived arterial endothelial cells (AECs) and venous endothelial cells (VECs), following adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-stimulation in a mini pig animal model. MATERIAL AND METHODS Bone marrow aspiration was performed in six adult mini pigs. Harvested mononuclear cells were isolated, cultured, and treated with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (16 µg/ml).

Critical examination of therapeutic efficacy of a pH-sensitive enteric-coated pancreatic enzyme preparation in treatment of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency secondary to cystic fibrosis.

In an attempt to critically examine the therapeutic efficacy of pH-sensitive enteric-coated pancreatic enzyme preparations in patients with pancreatic insufficiency due to cystic fibrosis, postprandial duodenal concentration and recovery of orally administered pancreatic enzymes, duodenal pH, and coefficient of fat absorption were determined in eight cases after ingestion of equivalent dosage of enteric-coated as well as conventional enzyme preparations. Ingestion of a pH-sensitive enteric-coated pancreatic enzyme preparation was accompanied with a significant (P less than 0.05) reduction in steatorrhea, as well as a lower mean concentration and recovery of lipase and trypsin activity in the postprandial duodenal samples.

Androgen-responsive functions of male rat liver. Effect of chronic alcohol ingestion.

Many liver processes are sexually dimorphic, and in rats, testosterone is the major steroid hormone determinant of the differing patterns of hepatic function. The microsomal content of specific enzymes and the syntheses of specific proteins are dependent on serum testosterone to maintain this dimorphism. Because the liver of male rats is strikingly androgen responsive, and because chronic alcohol ingestion decreases serum testosterone, we sought to determine whether chronic alcohol feeding would alter the masculine pattern of hepatic liver function in male rats.