Pulmonary functions, nasal symptoms, and quality of life in patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD).

Background: Several factors may influence quality of life (QOL) for patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). We aimed to evaluate the association between pulmonary functions, nasal symptoms and QOL in PCD patients.

Methods: A prospective single center study.

Signal transduction and metabolism in chondrocytes is modulated by lactoferrin.

Objective: Activation of granulocytes causes a considerable rise in the concentration of lactoferrin (Lf) in synovial fluid (SF). We here investigate consequences thereof on signal transduction and the balance between catabolic and anabolic metabolism in chondrocytes.

Methods: Signal transduction was analysed in cultured chondrocytes by immunodetection of mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPK) and analysis of Smad2 translocation to the nucleus.

Assorted effects of TGFbeta and chondroitinsulfate on p38 and ERK1/2 activation levels in human articular chondrocytes stimulated with LPS.

Objectives: Inadequate cellular response of chondrocytes to stress frequently terminates in osteoarthritis (OA). Adequate response is fundamentally modulated by concerted cytokine signaling events, directing degradation and synthesis of cartilage on articular surfaces where and whenever necessary. Transforming growth factor (TGF)beta is a prominent mediator in cartilage anabolism, although particular catabolic activities are occasionally reported.

Evaluation of chondroitin sulfate bioactivity in hippocampal neurones and the astrocyte cell line U373: influence of position of sulfate groups and charge density.

Chondroitin sulfates are linear polysaccharides of alternating glucuronic acid and N-acetylgalactosamine, sulfated in varying positions. They form the extracellular framework providing the information for the structural establishment of tissues in multicellular organisms. Growth cones of neurones modulate their outgrowth according to signals received from proteoglycans.