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Biomedical subjects

Minoru Ueda

Publications and source records attributed to Minoru Ueda.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources

Evaluation of decellularized esophagus as a scaffold for cultured esophageal epithelial cells.

Recently, decellularized tissue has been reported to have the potential to regenerate a variety of tissues. However, the optimal protocol for a decellularized esophagus has not been studied. Here, we investigated the effect of different decellularization protocols on the histology and biocompatibility of decellularized esophagi in view of future applications to tissue engineering. The esophageal mucosal epithelium (EP) from 4-week-old Wistar rats was enzymatically dissociated and cultured with growth-arrested feeder cells. Two methods for decellularization using deoxycholic acid (DEOX) or Triton X-100 (TRITON) were compared on esophagi from adult Wistar rats. Those treated with DEOX showed superior mechanical properties, maintenance of extracellular matrix, and lower DNA content than those treated with TRITON. To evaluate the biocompatibility of the scaffold, cultured (passage 3) esophageal epithelial cells were seeded inside the decellularized esophagus and cultured for 7 days. The cells seeded onto the decellularized esophagus were examined histologically and immunocytochemically. Esophageal epithelial cells were stratified into three to four cellular layers in vitro inside the decellularized esophagus, to show polarity. The results from immunocytochemistry indicated that the seeded epithelial cells expressed characteristic marker proteins for native esophageal EP. Decellularized esophagus showed suitable compatibility as a scaffold material for esophageal tissue engineering.

Animals↗

The sequential seeding of epithelial and mesenchymal cells for tissue-engineered tooth regeneration.

Progress is being made toward regenerating teeth by seeding dissociated postnatal odontogenic cells onto scaffolds and implanting them in vivo, but tooth morphology remains difficult to control. In this study, we aimed to facilitate tooth regeneration using a novel technique to sequentially seed epithelial cells and mesenchymal cells so that they formed appropriate interactions in the scaffold. Dental epithelium and mesenchyme from porcine third molar teeth were enzymatically separated and dissociated into single cells. Mesenchymal cells were seeded onto the surface of the scaffold and epithelial cells were then plated on top so that the two cell types were in direct contact. The cell-scaffold constructs were evaluated in vitro and also implanted into immunocompromised rats for in vivo analysis. Control groups included constructs where direct contact between the two cell types was prevented. In scaffolds seed using the novel technique, alkaline phosphatase activity was significantly greater than controls, the tooth morphology in vivo was developed in similar to that of natural tooth, and only one tooth structure formed in each scaffold. These results suggest that the novel cell-seeding technique could be useful for regulating the morphology of regenerated teeth.

Alkaline Phosphatase↗

Evidence for transit peptide acquisition through duplication and subsequent frameshift mutation of a preexisting protein gene in rice.

Many proteins synthesized in the cytosol are delivered to their appropriate compartments in the cell by specific targeting signals. Here, we provide new insight into the generation of the chloroplast-targeting signal (called the transit peptide) in rice. First, we identified the mitochondrial ribosomal protein L13 (mt rpl13) gene on chromosome 5. Downstream of the gene, we identified a DNA fragment of 266 bp: a segment within a duplication of mt rpl13. The duplicated region was transcribed and found to encode an open reading frame (ORF) of 160 amino acids (aa) (orf160). The orf160 gene comprises C-terminal 60 aa derived from the mt rpl13 gene and N-terminal 100 aa derived from another duplicated fragment of a pentatricopeptide repeat (ppr)564 gene that encodes 564 aa with ppr motifs on chromosome 1. Examination of the localization of the ORF160 protein tagged with green fluorescent protein (GFP) showed that it is targeted to the chloroplasts. As such, ORF160 clearly contains a transit peptide. Interestingly, this was translated from the alternative reading frame of the duplicated fragment of ppr564. To confirm this, the reading frame of the ppr564 gene was shifted according to that of the orf160 gene, and the frameshifted ppr564 sequence was fused to the gene for GFP. The expressed GFP-fused protein was also located in the chloroplasts. These results provide clear evidence for the generation of the transit peptide through duplication and subsequent frameshifting of a reading frame of a preexisting protein gene. We also demonstrate the importance of sequence redundancy and frameshift mutation in this evolutionary process.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Promoter shuffling at a nuclear gene for mitochondrial RPL27. Involvement of interchromosome and subsequent intrachromosome recombinations.

The Reclinomonas americana mitochondrial genome contains a mitochondrial ribosomal protein L27 (rpl27) gene, whereas the rpl27 gene is absent from all plant mitochondrial genomes examined to date. This suggests that plant mitochondrial rpl27 genes have been transferred previously from the mitochondrial genome to the nuclear genome. A nuclear cDNA encoding mitochondrial RPL27 was identified in rice (Oryza sativa). Three similar sequences were identified: rpl27-1 and rpl27-2 on chromosome 8 and rpl27-3 on chromosome 4. Harr plot analysis suggests that they were generated by inter- and intrachromosomal duplications. Interestingly, the transcribed rpl27 gene (rpl27-1) acquired a promoter sequence that was derived from the rice spt16 (Osspt16) gene, the homolog of a global transcription factor in yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) located downstream from the rpl27-3 sequence on chromosome 4, after inter- and intrachromosomal recombination. Reverse transcription-PCR and promoter assay revealed that the rpl27 mRNAs were mainly transcribed from rpl27-1. A repeat of seven nucleotides (AATAGTT) was identified at the junction of rpl27-1 and rpl27-2 on chromosome 8, and the same repeat was also identified at the 5' end of rpl27-2 and the 3' end of rpl27-1. This repeat (AATAGTT) contains the hot-spot sequence AGTT, which is preferentially recognized by topoisomerase I in wheat (Triticum aestivum) germ, suggesting the involvement of topoisomerase I in this recombination. We here report the example of promoter shuffling and show that this promoter shuffling resulted from a recent segmental duplication through inter- and intrachromosomal recombination events.

Amino Acid Sequence↗

Cluster analysis and gene expression profiles: a cDNA microarray system-based comparison between human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) for tissue engineering cell therapy.

We investigated gene expression patterns and functional classifications regarding the clusters of human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) and human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs)--which possess a multipotent ability--because little is known about the precise moleculobiological clues by which these cells activate their differentiating ability or functionality to eventually form dentin and bone, respectively. We first verified the expressions of the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) gene, dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP-1), and dentinsialophosphoprotein (DSPP) by real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and consequently discovered the high expressions of these genes. Total RNA was also followed by hybridization with a human microarray system consisting of 12,814 genes. Analyses of gene expression patterns indicated several genes which encode extracellular matrix components, cell adhesion molecules, growth factors, and transcription regulators. Functional and clustering analyses of differences in gene expression levels revealed cell signaling, cell communication, or cell metabolism. In the future, information on the gene expression patterns of hDPSCs and hMSCs might be useful in determining the detailed functional roles of the relevant genes and applicable to stem cell therapies, and these cells could also be used as multipotent cell sources for gene technology and tissue engineering technology.

Adult↗

Performance of collagen sponge as a 3-D scaffold for tooth-tissue engineering.

Tooth structure can be regenerated by seeding dissociated tooth cells onto polyglycolic acid fiber mesh, although the success rate of tooth production is low. The present study was designed to compare the performance of collagen sponge with polyglycolic acid fiber mesh as a 3-D scaffold for tooth-tissue engineering. Porcine third molar teeth at the early stage of crown formation were enzymatically dissociated into single cells, and the heterogeneous cells were seeded onto collagen sponge or the polyglycolic acid fiber mesh scaffolds. Scaffolds were then cultured to evaluate cell adhesion and ALP activity in vitro. An in vivo analysis was performed by implanting the constructs into the omentum of immunocompromised rats and evaluating tooth production up to 25 weeks. After 24h, there were a significantly higher number of cells attached to the collagen sponge scaffold than the polyglycolic acid fiber mesh scaffold. Similarly, the ALP activity was significantly higher for the collagen sponge scaffold was than the polyglycolic acid fiber mesh scaffold after 7 days of culture. The area of calcified tissue formed in the collagen sponge scaffold was also larger than in the polyglycolic acid fiber mesh scaffold. The results from in vivo experiments show conclusively that a collagen sponge scaffold allows tooth production with a higher degree of success than polyglycolic acid fiber mesh. Taken together, the results from this study show that collagen sponge scaffold is superior to the polyglycolic acid fiber mesh scaffold for tooth-tissue engineering.

Alkaline Phosphatase↗

Synthesis and odor description of both enantiomers of methyl 4,5-didehydrojasmonate, a component of jasmin absolute.

Synthesis of both enantiomers of methyl 4,5-didehydrojasmonate (1, Delta(4,5)-MJA; >99.8% ee), a constituent of jasmin absolute, established the absolute configuration of the natural product, and their odor quality was evaluated. The fragrance of the natural (3S,7R)-enantiomer (a fresh natural, sweet floral fruity odor, reminiscent of Jasmin and Ylang Ylang flower, more intensive and tenacious) was superior to that of the unnatural (3R,7S)-enantiomer (a floral green odor with slight metallic green aspect, less intensive than the natural form) and the racemate (green-floral note, having weak and less volume than methyl jasmonate). Odor difference between natural and unnatural enantiomers of methyl jasmonate (2) is also reported.

Cyclopentanes↗

Development of a novel temporary epicardial pacing wire with biodegradable film.

PURPOSE: A temporary epicardial pacing wire (TEPW) has been routinely placed in patients undergoing cardiac surgery. However, its fixation or removal occasionally causes troublesome complications. The aim of this study is to develop a novel TEPW using biodegradable film to fix the electrode to the epicardium without needle stabbing. DESCRIPTION: A biodegradable film was prepared with poly(L-lactide-co-epsilon-caprolactone). The film has a honeycomb-patterned structure that serves as a temporary adhesive for the myocardial surface, and the electrode was incorporated within the film. The novel TEPW was placed on the ventricular epicardium of dogs (group A, n = 5). As a control, conventional TEPW was inserted (group B, n = 6). The pacing threshold, R wave amplitude, impedance, and slew rate were measured at postoperative days 0, 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14, and complications after removal were checked. EVALUATION: All measurements in both groups were identified and differences were not observed. In addition, the novel TEPWs could be easily removed without related complications. CONCLUSIONS: This novel TEPW is safe and feasible for postoperative management of cardiac surgeries.

Absorbable Implants↗

Preliminary study of tissue-engineered odontogenesis in the canine jaw.

PURPOSE: We previously reported a method for the development of tissue-engineered tooth. However, 1 drawback of the procedure was the inability to determine whether the tooth would function when transplanted in the jaw because it was formed in the omentum of the abdomen. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate whether transplantation of dissociated odontogenic cells could induce tissue-engineered odontogenesis in the canine jaw. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cells were harvested from canine first molar tooth buds and the resulting heterogeneous cell population was seeded on a biodegradable polymer. These constructs were then transplanted into the same sockets after extracting the tooth buds. After transplantation, we evaluated the transplanted constructs using dental x-ray, micro-computed tomography, histology, and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS: After 24 weeks, micro-x-ray computed tomography showed regenerated hard tissues in the jaw, and hematoxylin and eosin staining showed tubular dentin and bone. In the regenerated tissue, osteopontin, osteonectin, and osteocalcin antibodies stained the dentinal matrix. However, enamel tissue and dental-root formation were not observed. CONCLUSION: These data show for the first time the formation of dentin and bone from dissociated odontogenic cells in the canine jaw.

Animals↗

Mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia induced by experimental squamous cell carcinoma of the lower gingiva in rats.

UNLABELLED: We developed a rat model of oral cancer pain by inoculating cancer cells into the lower gingiva. A squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) derived from Fisher rats, SCC-158, was inoculated into the subperiosteal tissue on the lateral side of the lower gingiva in male Fisher rats. Inoculation of cancer cells induced marked mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in the ipsilateral maxillary and mandibular nerve area. Infiltration of the tumor cells into the mandible and the completely encompassed inferior alveolar nerve was observed. Calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-, substance P (SP)-, ATP receptor (P2X(3))-, and capsaicin receptor (TRPV1)-immunoreactive cells strikingly increased in the small-cell group of trigeminal ganglia (TGs) after tumor cell inoculation. The TRPV1-immunoreactive cells also increased in the medium- and large-cell groups. Retrograde tracing combined with immunofluorescence techniques revealed the increased expression of peptides and the receptors in maxillary nerve afferent neurons. These results suggest that inoculation of SCC cells into the lower gingiva produces mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, indicating the establishment of a novel rat model of oral cancer pain. Increased expression of CGRP, SP, P2X(3), and TRPV1 in the TG may be involved in the behavioral changes in this model. PERSPECTIVE: To clarify the mechanisms of oral cancer pain, we examined the expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide, substance P, ATP receptor P2X(3), and capsaicin receptor TRPV1 in trigeminal ganglia. Characterizations of these molecular systems which mediate pain perception are important to develop novel clinical tools for promoting relief of oral cancer pain.

Animals↗

A novel approach to regenerating periodontal tissue by grafting autologous cultured periosteum.

In the field of oral and maxillofacial surgery, tissue-engineering techniques have been found useful in regenerating lost tissues. Periodontal disease causes severe destruction of periodontal tissue, including the alveolar bone. In this study we attempted to regenerate canine periodontal tissue defects by grafting autologous cultured membrane derived from the periosteum. Under appropriate culture conditions, periosteal cells produce enough extracellular matrix to form sheets. Periosteum specimens were peeled from the mandibular body of adult hybrid dogs and were cultured until cells formed membrane. ALP activity was measured to determine an optimal time for grafting. The cultured periosteum (CP) was grafted and sutured on a mechanically made Class III furcation defect in the 4th mandibular premolars. After 3 months, the samples were harvested and observed radiologically and histologically. In cases of CP, the bone defects were regenerated and filled with newly formed hard tissue, whereas in the controls the defects remained. These results show that our novel treatment is effective in regenerating alveolar bone for the treatment of periodontal disease.

Animals↗

Constructing a tissue-engineered ureter using a decellularized matrix with cultured uroepithelial cells and bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells.

This study investigated the efficacy of the ureteral decellularized matrix (UDM) as a scaffold material for a tissue-engineered ureter, and the effect of bone marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BM-MNC) on the neovascularization of the scaffold. Canine ureters were treated with deoxycholic acid to remove all cells. Uroepithelial cells (UEC) were obtained from canine bladders, cultured, and then seeded onto the inner surface of the UDM before transplantation into the subcutaneous space of nude mice or the omentum of nude rats. The cultured UECs began showing vacuolar degeneration 3 days after transplantation and gradually disappeared thereafter. To facilitate neovascularization in the implant, BM-MNCs were seeded around the UDM before transplantation. This facilitated the survival of the UECs, which formed three to five cellular layers after 14 days. The mean microvessel density was significantly increased in tissues seeded with BM-MNCs. However, cell-tracking experiments revealed that the increased number of capillaries in the experimental group was not due to the direct differentiation of transplanted endothelial progenitor cells. Our results demonstrate that the UDM is a useful scaffold for a tissue-engineered ureter, especially when seeded with BM-MNCs to enhance angiogenesis.

Animals↗

Simultaneous implant placement and bone regeneration around dental implants using tissue-engineered bone with fibrin glue, mesenchymal stem cells and platelet-rich plasma.

This study was undertaken to evaluate the use of tissue-engineered bone as grafting material for alveolar augmentation with simultaneous implant placement. Twelve adult hybrid dogs were used in this study. One month after the extraction of teeth in the mandible region, bone defects on both sides of the mandible were induced using a trephine bar with a diameter of 10 mm. Dog mesenchymal stem cells (dMSCs) were obtained via iliac bone biopsy and cultured for 4 weeks before implantation. After installing the dental implants, the defects were simultaneously implanted with the following graft materials: (i) fibrin, (ii) dMSCs and fibrin (dMSCs/fibrin), (iii) dMSCs, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and fibrin (dMSCs/PRP/fibrin) and (iv) control (defect only). The implants were assessed by histological and histomorphometric analysis, 2, 4 and 8 weeks after implantation. The implants exhibited varying degrees of bone-implant contact (BIC). The BIC was 17%, 19% and 29% (control), 20%, 22% and 25% (fibrin), 22%, 32% and 42% (dMSCs/fibrin) and 25%, 49% and 53% (dMSCs/PRP/fibrin) after 2, 4 and 8 weeks, respectively. This study suggests that tissue-engineered bone may be of sufficient quality for predictable enhancement of bone regeneration around dental implants when used simultaneous by with implant placement.

Alkaline Phosphatase↗

Gene-environment interaction involved in oral carcinogenesis: molecular epidemiological study for metabolic and DNA repair gene polymorphisms.

BACKGROUND: Exposure to environmental carcinogens leads to oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC); however, the impact of genetic variations in carcinogen metabolisms and DNA repair on OSCC risk considering environmental exposures has not been clearly elucidated. METHODS: We conducted a case-control study with 122 cases and 241 controls. The risk of OSCC was evaluated in 10 genetic polymorphisms of nine genes, such as CYP1A1, CYP2E1, GSTM1, GSTT1, XPA, XPC, XPC, XPF and ERCC1. Gene-environment interaction was also evaluated. RESULTS: We found that CYP2E1 and XPA polymorphisms significantly affected the OSCC risk. Gene-environment interactions with smoking were significant for CYP2E1 and ERCC1 polymorphisms. Odds ratios for gene-environment interaction were 7.98 (P = 0.036), 9.67 (P = 0.017) and 8.49 (P = 0.031) for CYP2E1RsaI, DraI and ERCC1 polymorphisms, respectively. No interaction was observed with heavy drinking and any polymorphisms. CONCLUSION: CYP2E1, XPA and ERCC1 polymorphisms may affect the risk of OSCC.

Alcohol Drinking↗

Cell proliferation in teeth reconstructed from dispersed cells of embryonic tooth germs in a three-dimensional scaffold.

Tissue engineering can now reproduce tooth from postnatal tooth cells. However, crown formation is not accurately reconstituted, even when the complex structure of the enamel dentin is reproduced. Here, we showed that a tissue-engineered (TE) tooth, exhibiting morphogenesis according to regular crown-cusp pattern formation, was produced by embryonic tooth germ cells in a three-dimensional scaffold. Heterogeneous cells dissociated from embryonic day 14 (E14) mice tooth germs were seeded on a scaffold and implanted under a kidney capsule in adult mice. The developmental process of the implants was examined for up to 14 d. At 5 d, the cells had formed initial tooth germ, followed by enamel-covered dentin tissue formed symmetrically. To study the developmental process, we examined the growth pattern using 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine (BrdU)-labeling analysis. The initial cell-proliferation patterns of the TE teeth were similar to that at the cap and early bell stages in natural teeth. This was particularly true in the cervical loop, which showed a similar distribution pattern of BrdU-positive cells in TE- and natural teeth. These results suggested that even when embryonic tooth germs are dissociated, the single cells can reconstitute tooth, and that enamel organ morphogenesis proceeds as in natural teeth.

Animals↗