Accentuation of differentially expressed proteins using phage technology.

Protein profiling is frequently used to elucidate disease-specific or differentially expressed proteins. While recent developments have resulted in improved differential profiling, alternative expression platforms that complement existing techniques are continually being explored. We developed a novel method utilizing the amplification and selection capabilities of random peptide-expressing M13 bacteriophage to accentuate differentially expressed proteins in biologic specimens.

Glutamate/aspartate transporter (GLAST), taurine transporter and metallothionein mRNA levels are differentially altered in astrocytes exposed to manganese chloride, manganese phosphate or manganese sulfate.

Manganese (Mn)-induced neurotoxicity can occur due to environmental exposure (air pollution, soil, water) and/or metabolic aberrations (decreased biliary excretion). High brain manganese levels lead to oxidative stress, as well as alterations in neurotransmitter metabolism with concurrent neurobehavioral deficits. Based on the few existing studies that have examined brain regional Mn concentration, it is likely that in pathological conditions, Mn concentration can reach between 100 and 500 microM.

Effects of manganese on oxidative stress in CATH.a cells.

The present study addressed the effects of Mn on oxidative stress in a catecholaminergic CATH.a cell line. Oxidative stress was measured with the fluorescent dye, 2',7'-dichlorofluoroscein (DCFH).

Correlation of blood cholinesterase levels with toxicity of sarin in rats.

The dose-mortality response curve for sarin when administered to pregnant rats is extremely steep. The pregnant animal either died during the treatment or survived with no observable fetal toxicity. Animals that died displayed many symptoms characteristic of anticholinesterase toxicity.

Methyl bromide 1-year dietary study in dogs.

Average human exposure resulting from consumption of methyl I bromide (MB)-fumigated food has been estimated to be 0.00125 mg/kg/day. A 1-yr feeding study in beagle dogs was conducted as a safety study in which the high-dose diet was intended to yield a methyl bromide dose of at least 100 times the calculated human dietary exposure.