Characterisation of sequence-structure-function space in sensor-effector integrators of phytochrome-regulated diguanylate cyclases.

Understanding the relationship between protein sequence, structure and function is one of the fundamental challenges in biochemistry. A direct correlation, however, is often not trivial since protein dynamics also play an important functional role-especially in signal transduction processes. In a subfamily of bacterial light sensors, phytochrome-activated diguanylate cyclases (PadCs), a characteristic coiled-coil linker element connects photoreceptor and output module, playing an essential role in signal integration.

Effect of irradiation on the expression of DNA repair genes studied in human fibroblasts by real-time qPCR using three methods of reference gene validation.

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of ionizing radiation on gene expression by using for a first time a qPCR platform specifically established for the detection of 94 DNA repair genes but also to test the robustness of these results by using three analytical methods (global pattern recognition, ΔΔCq/Normfinder and ΔΔCq/Genorm). Study was focused on these genes because DNA repair is known primarily to determine the radiation response. Six strains of normal human fibroblasts were exposed to 2 Gy, and changes in gene expression were analyzed 24 h thereafter.

Expression of immune relevant genes in pigs under the influence of low doses of deoxynivalenol (DON).

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is one of the most common Fusarium toxins in animal feed and poses a potential risk especially for monogastric animals like pigs. DON is known to modulate the immune system, dependent on dose and frequency of exposure. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of chronic exposure to low levels of DON on the expression of immune relevant genes.

Helicopter transport of stroke patients and its influence on thrombolysis rates: data from the Austrian Stroke Unit Registry.

Background And Purpose: Acute stroke management requires minimization of prehospital time. This study addresses the value of helicopter transport compared with other means of transportation to a stroke unit and compares their rates of thrombolysis on a nationwide basis.

Methods: Prospective data collection and prespecified evaluation of data from 32 stroke units between 2003 and 2009 were used.

Changes in the miRNA profile under the influence of anabolic steroids in bovine liver.

miRNAs are regulatory RNA molecules. The analytical interest rose over the past 10 years especially in clinical diagnostics as miRNAs show specific expression patterns in several human diseases like diabetes or cancer. Therefore, it is expected that miRNA profiles might be used as biomarkers in early diagnosis.

Effect of trenbolone acetate plus estradiol on transcriptional regulation of metabolism pathways in bovine liver.

Background: The use of anabolic steroids is forbidden for food producing animals in the EU. Owing to the advantages of anabolics for production profitability, illegal application is appealing. Anabolics are known to influence gene expression of several tissues.

Monitoring gene expression in muscle tissue of macaca fascicularis under the influence of testosterone and SARM.

The focus of this study was to evaluate data on the gene expression profiles induced by testosterone and a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM, TAP Pharmaceutical Products Inc., Lake Forest, IL, USA) in androgen sensitive muscle tissue to obtain a better understanding on the molecular mechanisms of action and to identify biomarkers for SARM function in primate organs. A total of 24 male cyomolgus monkeys were divided into four groups: testosterone group, SARM1 group, SARM10 group, and control group, each consisting of six animals.

Influence of testosterone and a novel SARM on gene expression in whole blood of Macaca fascicularis.

Anabolic hormones, including testosterone, have been suggested as a therapy for aging-related conditions, such as osteoporosis and sarcopenia. These therapies are sometimes associated with severe androgenic side effects. A promising alternative to testosterone replacement therapy are selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs).

Identification of potential gene expression biomarkers for the surveillance of anabolic agents in bovine blood cells.

In the EU, the use of anabolic steroids in food producing animals has been forbidden since 1988. The routine methods used in practice are based on the detection of hormonal residues. To overcome these routine methods, growth-promoting agents are sometimes administered at concentrations below the detection limit and new anabolic substances are designed.

Modification of mRNA expression after treatment with anabolic agents and the usefulness for gene expression-biomarkers.

With this feasibility study a first step towards a new monitoring system for hormonal treatments was done. Screening of regulation and function of anabolic sex steroids via modified gene expression of mRNA in various tissues could be a new approach to trace treatments with unknown drugs or newly combined cocktails. In the study, uterus, liver and muscle tissue from 24 cycling heifers were taken after the animals were treated either with Melengestrol Acetate (MGA), Finaplix-H (200 mg Trenbolone Acetate) or Ralgro (36 mg Zeranol) for 56 days.