Rice C2-domain proteins are induced and translocated to the plasma membrane in response to a fungal elicitor.

Hundreds of proteins involved in signaling pathways contain a Ca(2+)-dependent membrane-binding motif called the C2-domain. However, no small C2-domain proteins consisting of a single C2-domain have been reported in animal cells. We have isolated two cDNA clones, OsERG1a and OsERG1b, that encode two small C2-domain proteins of 156 and 159 amino acids, respectively, from a fungal elicitor-treated rice cDNA library.

Repression of phospho-JNK and infarct volume in ischemic brain of JIP1-deficient mice.

Mice lacking JIP1, a scaffold protein that organizes JNK pathway components, were constructed independently by two groups. The proposed in vivo function, however, remains contradictory; One study reported that targeted disruption of the jip1 caused embryonic death due to the requirement of JIP1 for fertilized eggs (Thompson et al. [2001] J.

Calcium-activated cationic channel in rat sensory neurons.

Ion channels in sensory neurons are molecular sensors that detect external stimuli and transduce them to neuronal signals. Although Ca2+-activated nonselective cation (CAN) channels were found in many cell types, CAN channels in mammalian sensory neurons are not yet identified. In the present study, we describe an ion channel that is activated by intracellular Ca2+ in cultured rat sensory neurons.

Gadolinium dimeglumine as a contrast agent for digital subtraction angiography: in vitro hounsfield unit measurement and clinical efficacy.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of using gadolinium-chelates for digital subtraction angiography (DSA) in patients with contraindications to iodinated contrast material, and to assess the clinically effective concentration of gadolinium (Gd). Gadopentetate dimeglumine and iopromide were used in density measurements. Using 20 mL disposable syringes, serial dilutions of Gd and iopromide with saline were performed.