The Experts below are selected from a list of 357564 Experts worldwide ranked by ideXlab platform
Jerome F. Strauss - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
Human sterol carrier Protein X/sterol carrier Protein 2 gene has two promoters.
Biochemistry, 1995Co-Authors: Takashi Ohba, Jeffrey T Billheimer, John A. Holt, Jerome F. StraussAbstract:The human sterol carrier Protein X (SCPX)/sterol carrier Protein 2 (SCP2) gene gives rise to two mRNAs: a 2.8 kb mRNA encoding SCPX, a peroXisome-associated thiolase, and a 1.5 kb mRNA encoding SCP2, which is thought to be an intracellular lipid transfer Protein. The SCPX/SCP2 gene is highly eXpressed in organs involved in lipid metabolism, but the relative abundance of SCPX and SCP2 mRNAs varies. Here we report that the two transcripts are produced under the direction of two independent promoters. We determined the DNA sequence of 3.4 kb of the proXimal promoter governing the transcription of SCPX sequences. The promoter governing the transcription of SCP2 sequences was identified 45 kb downstream from the SCPX promoter in intron XI. This promoter initiates transcription within eXon XII. Both the SCPX and SCP2 promoters lack TATA boXes and initiate transcription at multiple sites. They share features that are found in the promoters of genes encoding other peroXisomal Proteins. The basal activities of the two promoters were tested as fusion gene constructs in selected host cells, including BeWo choriocarcinoma cells, HepG2 hepatoblastoma cells, murine Y1 adrenocortical tumor cells, and Balb 3T3 fibroblasts. Cell host-specific patterns of promoter activity were observed. In addition, 8-Br-cAMP and phorbol myristate acetate were found to increase SCPX promoter activity in a host cell-specific manner. The SCP2 promoter was not significantly influenced by these agents.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
-
The structure of the human sterol carrier Protein X/sterol carrier Protein 2 gene (SCP2).
Genomics, 1994Co-Authors: Takashi Ohba, Hanna Rennert, Samantha Pfeifer, Ritsu Yamamoto, John A. Holt, Jerome F. StraussAbstract:Sterol carrier Protein X (SCPX) is a 58-kDa Protein that is localized to peroXisomes. The amino acid sequence of the Protein suggests that SCPX may function as a thiolase. The gene encoding SCPX also codes for a 15.3-kDa Protein called sterol carrier Protein 2 (SCP{sub 2}). Here the authors report the structure of this gene (SCP2), which spans approXimately 80 kb and consists of 16 eXons and 15 introns. Multiple transcription start sites were identified. The 5{prime} flanking region has characteristics of other peroXisomal Protein promoters, which include the absence of a TATA boX and G+C-enriched region containing several reverse GC boXes. 24 refs., 3 figs., 1 tab.
-
chicken sterol carrier Protein m2 sterol carrier Protein X cdna cloning reveals evolutionary conservation of structure and regulated eXpression
Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 1993Co-Authors: Samantha Pfeifer, Jeffrey T Billheimer, N. Sakuragi, A. Ryan, A.l. Johnson, R.g. Deeley, M.e. Baker, Jerome F. StraussAbstract:Abstract The chicken is a useful model for studies of lipid biochemistry because of the profound changes in lipid metabolism during development and the marked effects of estrogen on its lipids. Here we report the cloning of a cDNA encoding chicken sterol carrier Protein 2 (SCP2)/sterol carrier Protein X (SCPX), Proteins that are believed to play key roles in intracellular lipid movement and metabolism. The 2.4-kb clone, isolated from a liver cDNA library by homology screening with a rat SCP2 cDNA, encodes a 58-kDa polypeptide, SCPX, which encompasses the sequence for SCP2 at its C-terminus. Comparison of the deduced amino acid sequence of the chicken Protein with those of mammals revealed conservation of structure from an evolutionary standpoint. Like the other vertebrate SCPX Proteins, the chicken Protein contains a conserved Arg-Gly-Asp sequence and a cysteine residue in the N-terminus that aligns with the active site cysteine of Escherichia coli 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase, a Protein that was previously shown to be homologous to vertebrate SCPX. Northern blot analysis of poly(A)+ RNA from different chicken tissues revealed two mRNA species, one of 2.5 kb, encoding SCPX, and one of 1.4 kb, presumably encoding SCP2. High levels of the 2.5 and 1.4-kb mRNAs were found in liver, intestine, and ovarian granulosa cells, consistent with a role for these Proteins in lipid metabolism. There was no change in the 2.5-kb mRNA in chicken liver with development (Day 20 embryo to 4 weeks posthatch), but there was a 10-fold in-crease in the 1.4-kb mRNA by 1 week posthatch. Treatment of roosters with a single injection of estradiol (25 mg/kg) caused a twofold increase in the 2.5-kb mRNA in liver at 6 h after estradiol administration, reaching a maXimum fourfold increase at 48 h, while the 1.4-kb mRNA increased twofold at 48 h. The two SCP2/SCPX mRNAs were most abundant in granulosa cells from small follicles. A reduction in SCP2/SCPX gene eXpression was observed with follicular maturation, correlating with falling estrogen production. In summary, we have documented (i) marked conservation of SCP2/SCPX structure across species and (ii) developmental and hormonal regulation of the mRNAs which encode Proteins thought to be involved in lipid metabolism.
Thomas Frischer - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
urinary leukotriene e4 eosinophil Protein X and nasal eosinophil cationic Protein are not associated with respiratory symptoms in 1 year old children
Allergy, 2001Co-Authors: Claudia Wojnarowski, G Halmerbauer, Thomas Frischer, C Gartner, Johannes Forster, E Mayatepek, Joachim KuehrAbstract:Background: Eosinophilic airways inflammation forms the pathophysiologic basis for a proportion of children at risk of developing recurrent wheezing. Early preventive measures and/or anti-inflammatory treatment may be guided by the identification of such children. We aimed to study the relationship between respiratory symptoms and indirect markers of airway inflammation. Methods: We measured eosinophil Protein X (EPX) and leukotriene E4 (LTE4) in urine, as well as eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) in nasal lavages, in a random sample of 1-year-old children with a family history of atopy who participated in an international multicenter study on the prevention of allergy in Europe. For urine analyses, 10 children with upper respiratory illness and 19 healthy children without a family history of atopy were also enrolled. Endogenous urinary LTE4 was separated by HPLC and determined by enzyme immunoassay with a specific antibody. The concentrations of nasal ECP and urinary EPX were determined by RIA analysis. Results: One hundred and ten children (mean age: 1.05±0.1 years) were enrolled. Prolonged coughing during the first year of life was reported in 29 children, wheezy breathing in 17 children, and dry skin in 33 children. A doctor's diagnosis of wheezy bronchitis was given to 17 children. Sensitization to dust mites (specific IgE ≥1.43 ML/units) was detected in two children. Children with a doctor's diagnosis of atopic dermatitis within the first 12 months of life (n=6) had significantly higher urinary EPX than children without this (66.7 vs 30.1 µg/mmol creatinine, P=0.01). Urinary eXcretion of EPX and LTE4 showed a weak correlation (r=0.22, P=0.02). There were no significant differences in urinary eXcretion of EPX and LTE4 or nasal ECP between children with and without respiratory symptoms (P>0.1). Conclusions: At the age of 1 year, urinary EPX is increased in children with atopic dermatitis. With regard to respiratory symptoms, urinary and nasal inflammatory parameters are not helpful in characterizing the phenotype of a single patient.
-
eosinophil cationic Protein and eosinophil Protein X in the nasal lavage of children during the first 4 weeks of life
Allergy, 2000Co-Authors: G Halmerbauer, D Y Koller, C Gartner, M Schierl, Johannes Forster, R Urbanek, Thomas FrischerAbstract:Eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil Protein X (EPX) are well established as markers of eosinophil activation. We analyzed ECP and EPX concentrations in nasal lavage fluids (NALF) of 378 neonates during their first 4 weeks of life. Inclusion criteria were a positive history of parental allergy and a positive skin prick test or specific IgE (RAST class ≥2) against at least one out of a panel of common aeroallergens in one or both parents. Twenty-four infants with no history of parental allergy were used as controls. A volume of 2 ml of 0.9% saline was instilled into each nostril and immediately recovered by a suction device. ECP and EPX were analyzed by radioimmunoassay. In 65 samples of three consecutive lavages, EPX was detected in nine samples (13.8%) in the control group, whereas it was detected in 197/360 samples (54.7%) in the study population. The corresponding figures for ECP were 17/65 (26.2%) in the control group and 173/365 (47.4%) in the study group. Both Proteins showed a skewed distribution (median/5–95th percentiles for ECP: 0 µg/l [0–69.4] and EPX: 6.6 µg/l [0–73.2]). The differences between the control group and the study group were statistically significant, regardless of the allergic disease of the parents. In children of allergic parents, activation Proteins of the eosinophil granulocyte are released on the nasal mucosal surface in about 50% of the studied population at the age of 4 weeks. This early onset of eosinophil activation in the nasal respiratory epithelium may reflect a genetic predisposition to allergy or early eXposure to allergens.
-
urinary eosinophil Protein X in children the relationship to asthma and atopy and normal values
Allergy, 2000Co-Authors: E Tauber, G Halmerbauer, Thomas Frischer, D Y Koller, C Gartner, F Horak, A Veiter, M StudnickaAbstract:Background: In epidemiologic studies, it may be difficult to identify children with bronchial asthma. Since this is the most common chronic respiratory disease in childhood, and its prevalence is still increasing, reliable methods for identification of asthmatic children are required. This study evaluates the use of urinary eosinophil Protein X (U-EPX) in epidemiologic studies in identifying atopic and asthmatic children. Methods: U-EPX was measured in 877 Austrian schoolchildren. The skin prick test (SPT) was performed with eight common aeroallergens, and established questionnaires were used to assess respiratory symptoms. Results: Of our cohort, 2.8% reported physician-diagnosed asthma, 5.1% reported wheezing within the last 12 months, and 24.1% were found to be atopic. In children with physician-diagnosed asthma, as well as in atopic children (positive SPT), median U-EPX levels were significantly higher than in healthy subjects (142.8 and 89.6 vs 63.9 µg/mmol creatinine, P<0.0001 and P<0.0001, respectively). In addition, perennial sensitization to inhalant allergens resulted in higher U-EPX levels than did seasonal sensitization. The odds ratio for U-EPX levels over the 90th percentile was significantly elevated for asthma, for wheezing, for nocturnal cough, and for breathlessness at eXercise, as well as for seasonal and perennial sensitization. Pulmonary function was negatively relatedto U-EPX levels. Conclusions: Measurement of U-EPX, which can be obtained easily, may be helpful in diagnosing both asthma and atopy in children. However, there is a great overlap between controls and symptomatics, a fact which reduces the sensitivity of U-EPX in determination of the prevalence of asthma in epidemiologic studies.
-
major basic Protein but not eosinophil cationic Protein or eosinophil Protein X is related to atopy in cystic fibrosis
Allergy, 1999Co-Authors: D Y Koller, G Halmerbauer, Thomas Frischer, Judit Muller, M SchierlAbstract:Increased eosinophil granule Proteins have been described in serum and sputum samples of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). It has been assumed that eosinophil degranulation is enhanced in atopic subjects - as in asthmatics. Since in CF no differences in eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP), eosinophil Protein X (EPX), and eosinophil peroXidase between atopic and nonatopic subjects have been detected, we investigated whether major basic Protein (MBP) is increased in serum and sputum samples derived from atopic (n = 14) compared with nonatopic CF subjects (n = 26). In CF patients, high mean serum (sputum) levels of ECP 29.7 microg/l (2.7 mg/l), EPX 53.7 microg/l (7.9 mg/l), and MBP 984.6 microg/l but low sputum MBP levels (57.4 microg/l) were measured. In addition, in serum and in sputum samples, a significant correlation between MBP and ECP (P<0.03 and P<0.0001, respectively) or EPX (P<0.05 and P<0.0004, respectively) was detected. By subdivision of the patients into allergic and nonallergic subjects, significant differences were found for serum MBP values only(mean 1382.2 microg/l vs. 770.5 microg/l; P<0.0001), but not for ECP or EPX serum levels or for eosinophil Proteins in sputum. Although no differences between atopic and nonatopic CF patients in ECP and EPX were found, serum MBP levels were higher in patients sensitized to inhalant allergens than in nonsensitized subjects. These results indicate differential release of eosinophil granule Proteins in peripheral blood from eosinophils, and they also indicate that MBP in serum likely is to be a better discriminator of atopy in CF.
-
lack of relationship between eosinophil cationic Protein and eosinophil Protein X in nasal lavage and urine and the severity of childhood asthma in a 6 month follow up study
Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 1999Co-Authors: Claudia Wojnarowski, G Halmerbauer, D Y Koller, E Tauber, C Gartner, B Roithner, Thomas FrischerAbstract:Background Recent studies suggest that eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil Protein X (EPX) may be valuable markers of airway inflammation in various body fluids of asthmatic children. Most of these studies have relied on a single measure of inflammatory markers. Objective We measured ECP and EPX in nasal lavage fluids (NALF) and urine samples in children with asthma over a 6-month period to study the relationship between inflammatory markers and clinical severity. Methods Fourteen children with mild persisting asthma (mean age 11.7 years, sd 2.2) were recruited. All patients were on therapy including inhaled steroids. For a 6-month period asthma severity was monitored by at least monthly physical eXamination and pulmonary function tests. Daily morning and evening PEF, asthma symptoms and medication were recorded in diaries for the whole study period. Telephone interviews were performed between visits and additional visits were done in case of an increase in asthmatic symptoms or drop of PEF values under 80% of best value. An eXacerbation was defined by a fall of FEV1 > 10% and an increase in asthma symptoms and additional need of β2-agonist. NALF and urine samples were obtained at each visit and analysed for ECP (NALF only) and EPX. Results Mean observation time was 186.4 days ( sd 19.8). Thirteen patients completed the study. During the study period 11 eXacerbations were observed in siX patients. No significant associations between PEF, PEF variability (amplitude % of mean), daily symptoms, additional β2-agonist, FEV1 and MEF50 and nasal ECP, nasal EPX and urinary EPX were found. However, at eXacerbations an average increase of nasal ECP (9.3 vs 50.3 μg/L) and EPX (nasal EPX 36.4 vs 141.7 μg/L, urinary EPX 46.4 vs 74.1 μg/mmol creatinine) was observed. Conclusion Serial measurements of ECP and EPX in NALF and urine samples do not provide additional information for the practical management in monitoring childhood asthma.
Claus M Reimert - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
assessment of schistosoma mansoni induced intestinal inflammation by means of eosinophil cationic Protein eosinophil Protein X and myeloperoXidase before and after treatment with praziquantel
Acta Tropica, 2008Co-Authors: Claus M Reimert, Edridah M Tukahebwa, Narcis B Kabatereine, David W Dunne, Birgitte J VennervaldAbstract:Abstract Faecal concentrations of eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP), eosinophil Protein X (EPX) and myeloperoXidase (MPO) were measured in eXtracts of stool samples obtained from a cohort of people ( n = 182) living in Bugoigo, a fishing community on the Eastern shore of Lake Albert, Buliisa District, in North Western Uganda where Schistosoma mansoni is endemic. Samples were collected before treatment and 5, 15, 20 and 52 weeks after treatment with praziquantel. Significantly increased levels of faecal ECP and EPX were found in S. mansoni infected individuals ( n = 155) compared to the levels found in stools from non-infected ( n = 27) (median values ECP: 11.3 μg/g vs. 5.9 μg/g, P = 0.005, and EPX: 413.5 ng/g vs. 232.2 ng/g, P = 0.045). An increased level of MPO was also found among the infected individuals compared to the non-infected 11.6 μ/g vs. 5.3 μ/g, P = 0.07). Significant but weak correlations were found between faecal egg counts and faecal concentrations of ECP and EPX. Treatment with praziquantel induced a significant decline in both ECP and EPX, but only a non-significant reduction in faecal MPO. Following reinfection and despite of very low infection intensities, the Protein levels increased significantly reaching the pre-treatment level (ECP and EPX) or levels significantly higher than the pre-treatment levels (MPO). This response pattern may imply a rebound effect during reinfection following treatment and resolution of immune regulatory immunosuppressive mechanisms in function during the chronic infection.
-
eosinophil cationic Protein and eosinophil derived neurotoXin eosinophil Protein X immunoreactive eosinophils in prurigo nodularis
Archives of Dermatological Research, 2000Co-Authors: Olle Johansson, Yong Liang, Jan A Marcusson, Claus M ReimertAbstract:It is known that eosinophils are actively involved in allergy and inflammation. The granular components of eosinophils, eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil-derived neurotoXin/eosinophil Protein X (EDN/EPX), play an important role in such allergic and inflammatory processes. Prurigo nodularis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with obvious cutaneous nervous involvement. To detect ECP and EDN/ EPX eXpression in the eosinophils and their relation to nerve fibres in prurigo nodularis, ECP and EDN/EPX single-labelling immunofluorescence, and ECP and PGP 9.5 double-labelling immunofluorescence, were performed. In prurigo nodularis lesional skin, the ECP- and EDN/EPX-containing cells, which were mainly distributed in the upper dermis, were significantly increased in number compared to their numbers in uninvolved and normal skin. The immunoreactivity of ECP and EDN/EPX in prurigo lesional skin was stronger than in uninvolved skin or control skin. The PGP 9.5-immunoreactive nerves were also increased in number in the areas where there were increased eosinophils. The nerves were in close proXimity to eosinophils, and occasionally even seemed to be in contact. The present results indicate that the cutaneous nerves and the ECP- and EDN/EPX-containing eosinophils are possibly involved in the pathogenesis of the disease. The close relationship of nerves and eosinophils indicates that the cutaneous nerves may influence eosinophil function in the chronic inflammatory states of prurigo nodularis. ECP and EDN/EPX could thus be released to the local tissue and modulate the inflammation of the prurigo nodularis lesion.
-
measurement of eosinophil cationic Protein ecp and eosinophil Protein X eosinophil derived neurotoXin epX edn time and temperature dependent spontaneous release in vitro demands standardized sample processing
Journal of Immunological Methods, 1993Co-Authors: Claus M Reimert, Lars K Poulsen, C Bindslevjensen, Arsalan Kharazmi, K BendtzenAbstract:The measurement of eosinophil derived Proteins such as eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil Protein X/eosinophil derived neurotoXin (EPX/EDN) in biological fluids may be a useful indicator of eosinophil activity in ongoing inflammatory processes. This study was performed on blood samples and illustrates that serum values of ECP in particular, but also of EPX, are mainly a result of spontaneous release during the processing of blood samples. In the presence of divalent cations (Ca2+ and Mg2+), the amount of released ECP and EPX is dependent upon the incubation temperature and the time before centrifugation and recovery of serum. Moreover, the utensils used for blood sampling may influence the serum levels of ECP and EPX. Thus, standardized sample processing is of paramount importance if the results are to have optimal diagnostic or clinical value.
-
indirect assessment of eosinophiluria in urinary schistosomiasis using eosinophil cationic Protein ecp and eosinophil Protein X epX
Acta Tropica, 1993Co-Authors: Claus M Reimert, John H Ouma, Arsalan Kharazmi, Mariam T Mwanje, Philip Magak, Lars Kaergaard Poulsen, Birgitte J Vennervald, N O Christensen, K BendtzenAbstract:The pre- and post-treatment level of eosinophiluria, as measured indirectly by the amount of free or cell bound eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil Protein X (EPX) in urine from Schistosoma haematobium-infected Kenyan school children, were measured and compared with intensity of infection (eggs/10 ml of urine), albuminuria and pathological changes as detected by ultrasonography. ECP and EPX were determined by means of specific ELISA methods and levels were determined in both urine supernatants and eXtracted urine deposits (cells and cell debris). The level of ECP was significantly raised in urine supernatants from infected children compared to controls, whereas high amounts of EPX were found in urine supernatants from infected children as well as from controls. However, the amounts of cell bound ECP and EPX were significantly raised in infected children. In pre-treatment observations significant correlations were demonstrated between egg counts, albuminuria and eosinophiluria as measured by the amount of cell bound ECP and EPX, or ECP in urine supernatants. No such correlations were demonstrated with the amount of EPX in the urine supernatants. Comparable amounts of ECP and EPX could be eXtracted from the urine deposits from infected children, but due to the high amounts of EPX in urine deposit eXtracts from controls, eXtracted ECP gave the best discrimination between infected and non-infected children. While albuminuria disappeared in most children at the 6 week post-treatment follow-up, eosinophiluria persisted in a significant proportion of the treated children indicating continued eosinophil activity in the bladder wall. Detection and quantification of early acute inflammatory reactions using ECP/eosinophils in combination with detection of later stages of bladder pathology using ultrasound may allow for a dynamic evaluation of the pathological process, the morbidity development and post treatment pathological changes in S. haematobium infections.
D Y Koller - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
eosinophil cationic Protein and eosinophil Protein X in the nasal lavage of children during the first 4 weeks of life
Allergy, 2000Co-Authors: G Halmerbauer, D Y Koller, C Gartner, M Schierl, Johannes Forster, R Urbanek, Thomas FrischerAbstract:Eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil Protein X (EPX) are well established as markers of eosinophil activation. We analyzed ECP and EPX concentrations in nasal lavage fluids (NALF) of 378 neonates during their first 4 weeks of life. Inclusion criteria were a positive history of parental allergy and a positive skin prick test or specific IgE (RAST class ≥2) against at least one out of a panel of common aeroallergens in one or both parents. Twenty-four infants with no history of parental allergy were used as controls. A volume of 2 ml of 0.9% saline was instilled into each nostril and immediately recovered by a suction device. ECP and EPX were analyzed by radioimmunoassay. In 65 samples of three consecutive lavages, EPX was detected in nine samples (13.8%) in the control group, whereas it was detected in 197/360 samples (54.7%) in the study population. The corresponding figures for ECP were 17/65 (26.2%) in the control group and 173/365 (47.4%) in the study group. Both Proteins showed a skewed distribution (median/5–95th percentiles for ECP: 0 µg/l [0–69.4] and EPX: 6.6 µg/l [0–73.2]). The differences between the control group and the study group were statistically significant, regardless of the allergic disease of the parents. In children of allergic parents, activation Proteins of the eosinophil granulocyte are released on the nasal mucosal surface in about 50% of the studied population at the age of 4 weeks. This early onset of eosinophil activation in the nasal respiratory epithelium may reflect a genetic predisposition to allergy or early eXposure to allergens.
-
urinary eosinophil Protein X in children the relationship to asthma and atopy and normal values
Allergy, 2000Co-Authors: E Tauber, G Halmerbauer, Thomas Frischer, D Y Koller, C Gartner, F Horak, A Veiter, M StudnickaAbstract:Background: In epidemiologic studies, it may be difficult to identify children with bronchial asthma. Since this is the most common chronic respiratory disease in childhood, and its prevalence is still increasing, reliable methods for identification of asthmatic children are required. This study evaluates the use of urinary eosinophil Protein X (U-EPX) in epidemiologic studies in identifying atopic and asthmatic children. Methods: U-EPX was measured in 877 Austrian schoolchildren. The skin prick test (SPT) was performed with eight common aeroallergens, and established questionnaires were used to assess respiratory symptoms. Results: Of our cohort, 2.8% reported physician-diagnosed asthma, 5.1% reported wheezing within the last 12 months, and 24.1% were found to be atopic. In children with physician-diagnosed asthma, as well as in atopic children (positive SPT), median U-EPX levels were significantly higher than in healthy subjects (142.8 and 89.6 vs 63.9 µg/mmol creatinine, P<0.0001 and P<0.0001, respectively). In addition, perennial sensitization to inhalant allergens resulted in higher U-EPX levels than did seasonal sensitization. The odds ratio for U-EPX levels over the 90th percentile was significantly elevated for asthma, for wheezing, for nocturnal cough, and for breathlessness at eXercise, as well as for seasonal and perennial sensitization. Pulmonary function was negatively relatedto U-EPX levels. Conclusions: Measurement of U-EPX, which can be obtained easily, may be helpful in diagnosing both asthma and atopy in children. However, there is a great overlap between controls and symptomatics, a fact which reduces the sensitivity of U-EPX in determination of the prevalence of asthma in epidemiologic studies.
-
major basic Protein but not eosinophil cationic Protein or eosinophil Protein X is related to atopy in cystic fibrosis
Allergy, 1999Co-Authors: D Y Koller, G Halmerbauer, Thomas Frischer, Judit Muller, M SchierlAbstract:Increased eosinophil granule Proteins have been described in serum and sputum samples of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). It has been assumed that eosinophil degranulation is enhanced in atopic subjects - as in asthmatics. Since in CF no differences in eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP), eosinophil Protein X (EPX), and eosinophil peroXidase between atopic and nonatopic subjects have been detected, we investigated whether major basic Protein (MBP) is increased in serum and sputum samples derived from atopic (n = 14) compared with nonatopic CF subjects (n = 26). In CF patients, high mean serum (sputum) levels of ECP 29.7 microg/l (2.7 mg/l), EPX 53.7 microg/l (7.9 mg/l), and MBP 984.6 microg/l but low sputum MBP levels (57.4 microg/l) were measured. In addition, in serum and in sputum samples, a significant correlation between MBP and ECP (P<0.03 and P<0.0001, respectively) or EPX (P<0.05 and P<0.0004, respectively) was detected. By subdivision of the patients into allergic and nonallergic subjects, significant differences were found for serum MBP values only(mean 1382.2 microg/l vs. 770.5 microg/l; P<0.0001), but not for ECP or EPX serum levels or for eosinophil Proteins in sputum. Although no differences between atopic and nonatopic CF patients in ECP and EPX were found, serum MBP levels were higher in patients sensitized to inhalant allergens than in nonsensitized subjects. These results indicate differential release of eosinophil granule Proteins in peripheral blood from eosinophils, and they also indicate that MBP in serum likely is to be a better discriminator of atopy in CF.
-
lack of relationship between eosinophil cationic Protein and eosinophil Protein X in nasal lavage and urine and the severity of childhood asthma in a 6 month follow up study
Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 1999Co-Authors: Claudia Wojnarowski, G Halmerbauer, D Y Koller, E Tauber, C Gartner, B Roithner, Thomas FrischerAbstract:Background Recent studies suggest that eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil Protein X (EPX) may be valuable markers of airway inflammation in various body fluids of asthmatic children. Most of these studies have relied on a single measure of inflammatory markers. Objective We measured ECP and EPX in nasal lavage fluids (NALF) and urine samples in children with asthma over a 6-month period to study the relationship between inflammatory markers and clinical severity. Methods Fourteen children with mild persisting asthma (mean age 11.7 years, sd 2.2) were recruited. All patients were on therapy including inhaled steroids. For a 6-month period asthma severity was monitored by at least monthly physical eXamination and pulmonary function tests. Daily morning and evening PEF, asthma symptoms and medication were recorded in diaries for the whole study period. Telephone interviews were performed between visits and additional visits were done in case of an increase in asthmatic symptoms or drop of PEF values under 80% of best value. An eXacerbation was defined by a fall of FEV1 > 10% and an increase in asthma symptoms and additional need of β2-agonist. NALF and urine samples were obtained at each visit and analysed for ECP (NALF only) and EPX. Results Mean observation time was 186.4 days ( sd 19.8). Thirteen patients completed the study. During the study period 11 eXacerbations were observed in siX patients. No significant associations between PEF, PEF variability (amplitude % of mean), daily symptoms, additional β2-agonist, FEV1 and MEF50 and nasal ECP, nasal EPX and urinary EPX were found. However, at eXacerbations an average increase of nasal ECP (9.3 vs 50.3 μg/L) and EPX (nasal EPX 36.4 vs 141.7 μg/L, urinary EPX 46.4 vs 74.1 μg/mmol creatinine) was observed. Conclusion Serial measurements of ECP and EPX in NALF and urine samples do not provide additional information for the practical management in monitoring childhood asthma.
-
Serum eosinophil cationic Protein, eosinophil Protein X and eosinophil peroXidase in relation to pulmonary function in cystic fibrosis
Clinical and experimental allergy : journal of the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 1998Co-Authors: D Y Koller, I. Enander, M. Nilsson, I. EichlerAbstract:BACKGROUND Recently, increased serum levels of eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) in cystic fibrosis (CF) have been reported which were closely related to the levels in sputum. In the present study we investigated other eosinophil Proteins such as eosinophil peroXidase (EPO) and eosinophil Protein X (EPX) in sera of patients with CF and their relation to pulmonary function. METHODS Serum samples from 42 patients with CF and from 25 healthy control subjects were measured for ECP, EPO and EPX. Lung function tests were performed by using whole body plethysmographic technique, and the results were correlated with the levels of eosinophil granule Proteins. RESULTS Serum ECP (median: 20.9 microg/L), EPO (median: 30.3 microg/L) and EPX (median: 37.9 microg/L) levels were significantly increased in CF compared with healthy controls (3.5 microg/L, P < 0.0001, 5.6 microg/L, P < 0.0001 and 14.6 microg/L, P < 0.0001, respectively) whereas eosinophil counts were not different. There was a strong correlation between the levels of eosinophil Proteins and variables of pulmonary function, like between ECP and forced vital capacity (r = -0.764, P < 0.0001). In addition, ECP concentrations were significantly related to the levels of EPO and EPX, albeit, in some patients with low ECP levels, increased EPO and EPX concentrations were observed. CONCLUSION These results indicate that in patients with CF, ECP, EPO and EPX concentrations also were increased with a significant relationship between these three eosinophil Proteins. Since eosinophil activity in patients with CF is strongly correlated with pulmonary function, the assessment of eosinophil granule Proteins might be useful for clinical monitoring in CF.
G Halmerbauer - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
-
urinary leukotriene e4 eosinophil Protein X and nasal eosinophil cationic Protein are not associated with respiratory symptoms in 1 year old children
Allergy, 2001Co-Authors: Claudia Wojnarowski, G Halmerbauer, Thomas Frischer, C Gartner, Johannes Forster, E Mayatepek, Joachim KuehrAbstract:Background: Eosinophilic airways inflammation forms the pathophysiologic basis for a proportion of children at risk of developing recurrent wheezing. Early preventive measures and/or anti-inflammatory treatment may be guided by the identification of such children. We aimed to study the relationship between respiratory symptoms and indirect markers of airway inflammation. Methods: We measured eosinophil Protein X (EPX) and leukotriene E4 (LTE4) in urine, as well as eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) in nasal lavages, in a random sample of 1-year-old children with a family history of atopy who participated in an international multicenter study on the prevention of allergy in Europe. For urine analyses, 10 children with upper respiratory illness and 19 healthy children without a family history of atopy were also enrolled. Endogenous urinary LTE4 was separated by HPLC and determined by enzyme immunoassay with a specific antibody. The concentrations of nasal ECP and urinary EPX were determined by RIA analysis. Results: One hundred and ten children (mean age: 1.05±0.1 years) were enrolled. Prolonged coughing during the first year of life was reported in 29 children, wheezy breathing in 17 children, and dry skin in 33 children. A doctor's diagnosis of wheezy bronchitis was given to 17 children. Sensitization to dust mites (specific IgE ≥1.43 ML/units) was detected in two children. Children with a doctor's diagnosis of atopic dermatitis within the first 12 months of life (n=6) had significantly higher urinary EPX than children without this (66.7 vs 30.1 µg/mmol creatinine, P=0.01). Urinary eXcretion of EPX and LTE4 showed a weak correlation (r=0.22, P=0.02). There were no significant differences in urinary eXcretion of EPX and LTE4 or nasal ECP between children with and without respiratory symptoms (P>0.1). Conclusions: At the age of 1 year, urinary EPX is increased in children with atopic dermatitis. With regard to respiratory symptoms, urinary and nasal inflammatory parameters are not helpful in characterizing the phenotype of a single patient.
-
eosinophil cationic Protein and eosinophil Protein X in the nasal lavage of children during the first 4 weeks of life
Allergy, 2000Co-Authors: G Halmerbauer, D Y Koller, C Gartner, M Schierl, Johannes Forster, R Urbanek, Thomas FrischerAbstract:Eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil Protein X (EPX) are well established as markers of eosinophil activation. We analyzed ECP and EPX concentrations in nasal lavage fluids (NALF) of 378 neonates during their first 4 weeks of life. Inclusion criteria were a positive history of parental allergy and a positive skin prick test or specific IgE (RAST class ≥2) against at least one out of a panel of common aeroallergens in one or both parents. Twenty-four infants with no history of parental allergy were used as controls. A volume of 2 ml of 0.9% saline was instilled into each nostril and immediately recovered by a suction device. ECP and EPX were analyzed by radioimmunoassay. In 65 samples of three consecutive lavages, EPX was detected in nine samples (13.8%) in the control group, whereas it was detected in 197/360 samples (54.7%) in the study population. The corresponding figures for ECP were 17/65 (26.2%) in the control group and 173/365 (47.4%) in the study group. Both Proteins showed a skewed distribution (median/5–95th percentiles for ECP: 0 µg/l [0–69.4] and EPX: 6.6 µg/l [0–73.2]). The differences between the control group and the study group were statistically significant, regardless of the allergic disease of the parents. In children of allergic parents, activation Proteins of the eosinophil granulocyte are released on the nasal mucosal surface in about 50% of the studied population at the age of 4 weeks. This early onset of eosinophil activation in the nasal respiratory epithelium may reflect a genetic predisposition to allergy or early eXposure to allergens.
-
urinary eosinophil Protein X in children the relationship to asthma and atopy and normal values
Allergy, 2000Co-Authors: E Tauber, G Halmerbauer, Thomas Frischer, D Y Koller, C Gartner, F Horak, A Veiter, M StudnickaAbstract:Background: In epidemiologic studies, it may be difficult to identify children with bronchial asthma. Since this is the most common chronic respiratory disease in childhood, and its prevalence is still increasing, reliable methods for identification of asthmatic children are required. This study evaluates the use of urinary eosinophil Protein X (U-EPX) in epidemiologic studies in identifying atopic and asthmatic children. Methods: U-EPX was measured in 877 Austrian schoolchildren. The skin prick test (SPT) was performed with eight common aeroallergens, and established questionnaires were used to assess respiratory symptoms. Results: Of our cohort, 2.8% reported physician-diagnosed asthma, 5.1% reported wheezing within the last 12 months, and 24.1% were found to be atopic. In children with physician-diagnosed asthma, as well as in atopic children (positive SPT), median U-EPX levels were significantly higher than in healthy subjects (142.8 and 89.6 vs 63.9 µg/mmol creatinine, P<0.0001 and P<0.0001, respectively). In addition, perennial sensitization to inhalant allergens resulted in higher U-EPX levels than did seasonal sensitization. The odds ratio for U-EPX levels over the 90th percentile was significantly elevated for asthma, for wheezing, for nocturnal cough, and for breathlessness at eXercise, as well as for seasonal and perennial sensitization. Pulmonary function was negatively relatedto U-EPX levels. Conclusions: Measurement of U-EPX, which can be obtained easily, may be helpful in diagnosing both asthma and atopy in children. However, there is a great overlap between controls and symptomatics, a fact which reduces the sensitivity of U-EPX in determination of the prevalence of asthma in epidemiologic studies.
-
major basic Protein but not eosinophil cationic Protein or eosinophil Protein X is related to atopy in cystic fibrosis
Allergy, 1999Co-Authors: D Y Koller, G Halmerbauer, Thomas Frischer, Judit Muller, M SchierlAbstract:Increased eosinophil granule Proteins have been described in serum and sputum samples of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). It has been assumed that eosinophil degranulation is enhanced in atopic subjects - as in asthmatics. Since in CF no differences in eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP), eosinophil Protein X (EPX), and eosinophil peroXidase between atopic and nonatopic subjects have been detected, we investigated whether major basic Protein (MBP) is increased in serum and sputum samples derived from atopic (n = 14) compared with nonatopic CF subjects (n = 26). In CF patients, high mean serum (sputum) levels of ECP 29.7 microg/l (2.7 mg/l), EPX 53.7 microg/l (7.9 mg/l), and MBP 984.6 microg/l but low sputum MBP levels (57.4 microg/l) were measured. In addition, in serum and in sputum samples, a significant correlation between MBP and ECP (P<0.03 and P<0.0001, respectively) or EPX (P<0.05 and P<0.0004, respectively) was detected. By subdivision of the patients into allergic and nonallergic subjects, significant differences were found for serum MBP values only(mean 1382.2 microg/l vs. 770.5 microg/l; P<0.0001), but not for ECP or EPX serum levels or for eosinophil Proteins in sputum. Although no differences between atopic and nonatopic CF patients in ECP and EPX were found, serum MBP levels were higher in patients sensitized to inhalant allergens than in nonsensitized subjects. These results indicate differential release of eosinophil granule Proteins in peripheral blood from eosinophils, and they also indicate that MBP in serum likely is to be a better discriminator of atopy in CF.
-
lack of relationship between eosinophil cationic Protein and eosinophil Protein X in nasal lavage and urine and the severity of childhood asthma in a 6 month follow up study
Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 1999Co-Authors: Claudia Wojnarowski, G Halmerbauer, D Y Koller, E Tauber, C Gartner, B Roithner, Thomas FrischerAbstract:Background Recent studies suggest that eosinophil cationic Protein (ECP) and eosinophil Protein X (EPX) may be valuable markers of airway inflammation in various body fluids of asthmatic children. Most of these studies have relied on a single measure of inflammatory markers. Objective We measured ECP and EPX in nasal lavage fluids (NALF) and urine samples in children with asthma over a 6-month period to study the relationship between inflammatory markers and clinical severity. Methods Fourteen children with mild persisting asthma (mean age 11.7 years, sd 2.2) were recruited. All patients were on therapy including inhaled steroids. For a 6-month period asthma severity was monitored by at least monthly physical eXamination and pulmonary function tests. Daily morning and evening PEF, asthma symptoms and medication were recorded in diaries for the whole study period. Telephone interviews were performed between visits and additional visits were done in case of an increase in asthmatic symptoms or drop of PEF values under 80% of best value. An eXacerbation was defined by a fall of FEV1 > 10% and an increase in asthma symptoms and additional need of β2-agonist. NALF and urine samples were obtained at each visit and analysed for ECP (NALF only) and EPX. Results Mean observation time was 186.4 days ( sd 19.8). Thirteen patients completed the study. During the study period 11 eXacerbations were observed in siX patients. No significant associations between PEF, PEF variability (amplitude % of mean), daily symptoms, additional β2-agonist, FEV1 and MEF50 and nasal ECP, nasal EPX and urinary EPX were found. However, at eXacerbations an average increase of nasal ECP (9.3 vs 50.3 μg/L) and EPX (nasal EPX 36.4 vs 141.7 μg/L, urinary EPX 46.4 vs 74.1 μg/mmol creatinine) was observed. Conclusion Serial measurements of ECP and EPX in NALF and urine samples do not provide additional information for the practical management in monitoring childhood asthma.
