Modification of ceramic microfilters with colloidal zirconia to promote the adsorption of viruses from water.

The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of modifying commercial microporous ceramic bacteria filters to promote adsorption of viruses. The internal surface of the filter medium was coated with ZrO(2) nanopowder via dip-coating and heat-treatment in order to impart a filter surface charge opposite to that of the target viruses. Streaming potential measurements revealed a shift in the isoelectric point from pH <3 to between pH 5.

Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids affect electrolyte transport in renal tubular epithelial cells: dependence on cyclooxygenase and cell polarity.

We investigated the effects of epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) on ion transport in the polarized renal distal tubular cell line, Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) C7. Of the four EET regioisomers (5,6-EET, 8,9-EET, 11,12-EET, and 14,15-EET) studied, only apical, but not basolateral, application of 5,6-EET increased short-circuit current (I(sc)) with kinetics similar to those of arachidonic acid. The ion transport was blocked by preincubation with the cyclooxygenase inhibitor indomethacin or with the chloride channel blocker NPPB.

Expression of the potassium channel ROMK in adult and fetal human kidney.

The renal potassium channel ROMK is a crucial element of K+ recycling and secretion in the distal tubule and the collecting duct system. Mutations in the ROMK gene (KCNJ1) lead to hyperprostaglandin E syndrome/antenatal Bartter syndrome, a life-threatening hypokalemic disorder of the newborn. The localization of ROMK channel protein, however, remains unknown in humans.

Expression of prostanoid receptors in human lower segment pregnant myometrium.

Prostanoids, especially prostaglandin (PG) E(2), are important mediators of uterine relaxation and contractions during gestation and parturition. Inhibitors of PG formation as well as PG analogues are used to modulate uterine tonus. So far, only limited data are available regarding the expression of prostanoid receptors in human pregnant myometrium.

Expression of prostanoid receptors in human ductus arteriosus.

1. Prostaglandins play a major role in maintaining ductal patency in utero. Ductal tone is regulated by both locally released and circulating vasodilatory prostaglandins.