Search

The p160 nuclear receptor co-activators represent a family of molecules, which are recruited by steroid nuclear receptors as well as other transcription factors that are overexpressed in several tumors. We investigated the role of one member of this family on the sensitivity of cells to apoptosis. We observed that overexpression of the RAC3 (receptor-associated co-activator-3) p160 co-activator inhibits hydrogen peroxide-induced cell death in human embryonic kidney 293 (HEK293) cells. The mechanism involves the activation of anti-apoptotic pathways mediated through enhanced nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activity, inhibition of caspase-9 activation, diminished apoptotic-inducing factor (AIF) nuclear localization and a change in the activation pattern of several kinases, including an increase in both AKT and p38 kinase activities, and inhibition of ERK2. Moreover, RAC3 has been found associated with a protein complex containing AIF, Hsp90 and dynein, suggesting a role for the co-activator in the cytoplasmatic nuclear transport of these proteins associated with cytoskeleton. These results demonstrate that there are several molecular pathways that could be affected by their overexpression, including those not restricted to steroid regulation or the nuclear action of co-activators, which results in diminished sensitivity to apoptosis. Furthermore, this could represent one mechanism by which co-activators contribute to tumor development.Oncogene (2008) 27, 2430–2444; doi:10.1038/sj.onc.1210900; published online 29 October 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mean field theory and linear response methods as used in the description of nuclei and clusters are reviewed. These methods are applied to the electromagnetic response of C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Takayasu arteritis (TA) is a rare form of chronic large vessel vasculitis of unknown origin involving the aorta and its major branches. Recently, the involvement of B lymphocytes in TA has been suggested, and active refractory TA patients were successfully treated with B cell depletion therapy (BCDT). We report two cases of patients with TA successfully treated with anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody (rituximab). The favorable outcome of rituximab treatment in our patients also support the view that BCDT can be a useful option for refractory TA, and its potential should be evaluated in controlled trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]