Hypertension-Associated Genes in the Mesenteric Artery of Three Spontaneously Hypertensive Rat Substrains Identified Using a DNA Array Method.

Background: Although the mesenteric artery plays a key role in regulating peripheral blood pressure, the molecular mechanisms that underlie the development of essential hypertension are not yet fully understood.

Materials And Methods: We explored candidate genes for hypertension using three related strains of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs) that mimic human essential hypertension. In this study we used DNA microarrays, a powerful tool for studying genetic diseases, to compare gene expression in the mesenteric artery of three SHR substrains: SHR, stroke-prone SHR (SHRSP), and malignant SHRSP (M-SHRSP).

The "Enseki" sandbath: A novel, safe and effective far-infrared bathing procedure for health.

Background: Far-infrared (FIR) is well known with various therapeutic benefits. Recently, we have developed a novel FIR bathing system called the Enseki sandbath. In this regard, we focused on physical nature of ceramic to radiate FIR rays when heated adequately.

Inhibition of cytokine-induced expression of T-cell cytokines by antihistamines.

Objective: To investigate immunomodulatory properties of 4 antihistamines available in Japan.

Method: Isolated peripheral blood T cells from healthy volunteers were preincubated with cetirizine, loratadine, olopatadine, or fexofenadine for 30 minutes and then stimulated with interleukin (IL)-1 2 or IL-4 to skew immune response towards type 1 or type 2 helper T cells. RNA was extracted 6 hours later and semiquantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed using primers for IL-5 and interferon (IFN) gamma.

Antagonism of IL-4 signaling by a phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor, rolipram, in human T cells.

Background: Phosphodiesterase (PDE4) inhibitors prevent breakdown of cAMP and affect the increase in cellular levels of cAMP, which is known to regulate immune cell functions. Because IL-4 plays a causal role in the pathogenesis of allergic disorders, we were interested to study the modulatory mechanisms of a PDE4 inhibitor, rolipram, in IL-4-mediated signaling in T cells.

Methods: Human peripheral T cells were stimulated with IL-4 in combination with rolipram, and RT-PCR was performed using primers specific for IL-5.