Variability of haptoglobin beta-chain proteoforms.

Existing knowledge on changes of the haptoglobin (Hp) molecule suggests that it may exist in multiple proteoforms, which obviously exhibit different functions. Using two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE) in combination with mass spectrometry and immunodetection, we have analyzed blood plasma samples from both healthy donors and patients with primary grade IV glioblastoma (GBM), and obtained a detailed composite 2DE distribution map of β-chain proteoforms, as well as the full-length form of Hp (zonulin). Although the total level of plasma Hp exceeded normal values in cancer patients (especially patients with GBM), the presence of particuar proteoforms, detected by their position on the 2DE map, was very individual.

Intracellular NO concentration and its changes in carcinoma cells and cultured human endotheliocytes under the influence of inhibitors and inductors of nitric oxide synthases.

We carried out cytophotometric evaluation of NO content in cells expressing various types of NO synthases. Endogenous production of NO can be modified by NO synthase inductors and inhibitors.