The role of YKL-40 in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases: a comprehensive review.

YKL-40, a chitinase-3-like protein 1 (CHI3L1) or human cartilage glycoprotein 39 (HC gp-39), is expressed and secreted by various cell-types including macrophages, chondrocytes, fibroblast-like synovial cells and vascular smooth muscle cells. Its biological function is not well elucidated, but it is speculated to have some connection with inflammatory reactions and autoimmune diseases. Although having important biological roles in autoimmunity, there were only attempts to elucidate relationships of YKL-40 with a single or couple of diseases in the literature.

Retroviral delivery of TIMP-2 inhibits H-ras-induced migration and invasion in MCF10A human breast epithelial cells.

The matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) play important roles in invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis in various cell types. Tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease (TIMP)-2, an endogenous inhibitor of MMP-2, has been shown to inhibit invasion and metastasis. We have previously shown that MMP-2 is responsible for the H-ras-induced invasive and migrative phenotypes in MCF10A human breast epithelial cells.

In vitro bioassay for transforming growth factor-beta using XTT method.

Research in the cytokine field has grown exponentially in recent years, and the validity of such studies relies heavily on the appropriate measurement of levels of cytokines in various biological samples. Transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta, a hormonally active polypeptide found in normal and transformed tissue, is a potent regulator of cell growth and differentiation. The most widely used bioassay for TGF-beta is the inhibition of the proliferation of mink lung epithelial cells.