Andrzej Gamian

Publications of Andrzej Gamian

• Tumor location determines midkine level and its association with the disease progression in colorectal cancer patients: a pilot study.

  Authors: Malgorzata Krzystek-Korpacka, Dorota Diakowska, Krzysztof Grabowski, Andrzej Gamian

  International journal of colorectal disease. 05/2012;

  PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate midkine, multipotential cytokine, and growth factor in colorectal cancer (CRC) stratified by tumor location. METHODS: Midkine was assessedPURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate midkine, multipotential cytokine, and growth factor in colorectal cancer (CRC) stratified by tumor location. METHODS: Midkine was assessed immunoenzymatically in paired cancerous and noncancerous tissues from 53 CRCs and referred to CRC stage, tumor location, and size, and circulating cytokine levels. RESULTS: Midkine was higher in cancerous versus noncancerous tissue in 98 % cases (424.2 vs. 31.1 pg/mg, p < 0.0001). Mean fold increase was 30.1; in 72.5 %, the relative increase was over fivefold. Midkine upregulation was more pronounced in colon than in rectum (fold increase: 36.6 vs. 12.7, p = 0.005) due to higher midkine level in noncancerous rectal than colonic tissue (45.5 vs. 26.2 pg/mg, p = 0.074). Tumor location affected midkine association with CRC stage. Midkine fold change was higher in advanced stages of rectal cancers (16.8 vs. 5.3, respectively in III/IV vs. I/II, p = 0.013), while it tended to be lower in colonic ones (25.3 vs. 47.8, p = 0.134). In addition, fold change in midkine level was higher in rectal N1 than N0 cancers (17.3 vs. 16.5, p = 0.032), while it tended to be lower in colonic cancers (23.6 vs. 50.1, p = 0.085). Midkine negatively correlated with tumor size (r = 0.40, p = 0.017), while it tended to positively correlate with its serum levels (r = 0.45, p = 0.081). CONCLUSIONS: Midkine is differently expressed in tumors arising from colonic and rectal mucosa, where it may play diverse roles in carcinogenesis. High midkine expression in noncancerous rectal mucosa might contribute to, a characteristic for rectal cancers, higher incidence of local recurrence. Divergent expression of midkine and its association pattern ought to be taken into account while designing midkine-directed therapies for CRC.

• Structures of a unique O-polysaccharide of Edwardsiella tarda PCM 1153 containing an amide of galacturonic acid with 2-aminopropane-1,3-diol and an abequose-containing O-polysaccharide shared by E. tarda PCM 1145, PCM 1151 and PCM 1158.

  Authors: Ewa Katzenellenbogen, Nina A Kocharova, Philip V Toukach, Sabina Górska, Maria Bogulska, Andrzej Gamian, Yuriy A Knirel

  Carbohydrate research. 04/2012;

  Lipopolysaccharides of four strains of Edwardsiella tarda were degraded by mild acid hydrolysis, and the released O-polysaccharides were isolated by GPC and studied by sugar and methylation analysesLipopolysaccharides of four strains of Edwardsiella tarda were degraded by mild acid hydrolysis, and the released O-polysaccharides were isolated by GPC and studied by sugar and methylation analyses along with (1)H and (13)C NMR spectroscopy, including 2D (1)H, (1)H COSY, TOCSY, ROESY, (1)H, (13)C HMBC, HSQC and HSQC-TOCSY experiments. The O-polysaccharide from E. tarda PCM 1153 was found to contain d-GalA, d-GlcNAc, d-Gal and 2-amino-1,3-propanediol (GroN). In the tetrasaccharide repeating unit, GroN is amide-linked to one of the GalA residues, and Gal is non-stoichiometrically 2- or 3-O-acetylated (∼45% at each position): Three other E. tarda strains examined (PCM 1145, PCM 1151 and PCM 1158) share the following O-polysaccharide structure: where Abe indicates 3,6-dideoxy-d-xylo-hexose (abequose). This structure resembles those of Citrobacter freundii O22 (PCM 1555) and Salmonella enterica O4. In accordance with the structural data, SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting of the lipopolysaccharides with anti-C. freundii O22 serum demonstrated that the O-antigens of the three E. tarda strains are serologically identical to each other and to the O-antigens of C. freundii O22 and S. enterica O4.

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus Exopolysaccharide Ameliorates Arthritis Induced by the Systemic Injection of Collagen and Lipopolysaccharide in DBA/1 Mice.

  Authors: Bernadeta Nowak, Marta Ciszek-Lenda, Małgorzata Sróttek, Andrzej Gamian, Ewa Kontny, Sabina Górska-Frączek, Janusz Marcinkiewicz

  Archivum immunologiae et therapiae experimentalis. 04/2012;

  Oral administration of some probiotic bacteria (e.g. Lactobacillus rhamnosus) attenuates various types of experimental arthritis, including collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and inhibits arthritogenicOral administration of some probiotic bacteria (e.g. Lactobacillus rhamnosus) attenuates various types of experimental arthritis, including collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) and inhibits arthritogenic autoantibodies. Much less is known about the possible anti-arthritogenic properties of exopolysaccharide (EPS), the major component of lactic bacteria biofilm. In this study, we asked the question whether systemic administration of EPS derived from L. rhamnosus KL37 depresses the production of anti-collagen IgG and affects the development of CIA in DBA/1 mice. Arthritis was induced employing two models of active CIA, in which mice were immunized with type II collagen (CII) either in the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS; mild arthritis with moderate CII-specific IgG production) or with Complete Freund's Adjuvant and LPS (severe arthritis with massive CII-specific IgG production). Passive CIA was induced by intravenous injection of CII-specific monoclonal antibodies and LPS. Disease progression, the incidence and severity of arthritis, were determined. Serum concentration of CII-specific IgG was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Systemic administration of EPS markedly reduced CII-specific antibody production. Moreover, EPS significantly ameliorated arthritis in the active models of CIA, especially, when LPS alone was used as an adjuvant. In contrast, when arthritogenic antibodies were injected to mice in high amounts, the effect of EPS on the development of passive CIA was negligible and transient. These results show that EPS can suppress active CIA by the inhibition of arthritogenic antibodies production. Therefore, we suggest that EPS or EPS-producing probiotics may be promising agents for the supporting therapy of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

• Structural studies of the exopolysaccharide consisting of a nonasaccharide repeating unit isolated from Lactobacillus rhamnosus KL37B.

  Authors: Sabina Górska-Frączek, Corine Sandström, Lennart Kenne, Jacek Rybka, Magdalena Strus, Piotr Heczko, Andrzej Gamian

  Carbohydrate research. 10/2011; 346(18):2926-32.

  A novel structure of exopolysaccharide from the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) Lactobacillus rhamnosus KL37B, from the human intestinal flora, is described. During the structural investigation of theA novel structure of exopolysaccharide from the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) Lactobacillus rhamnosus KL37B, from the human intestinal flora, is described. During the structural investigation of the exopolysaccharide it was found that the repeating unit is a nonasaccharide, which is the largest repeating unit found in LAB exopolysaccharides to date. The polysaccharide material was prepared by TCA extraction of a bacterial cell mass, purified by anion-exchange and gel permeation chromatography and characterized using chemical and enzymatic methods. On the basis of monosaccharide and methylation analysis and also 1D and 2D (1)H and (13)C NMR spectroscopy the exopolysaccharide was shown to be composed of the following nonasaccharide repeating unit: The physicochemical cell surface study and adhesive properties indicated distinct surface properties of Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain KL37B with high adhesive abilities to Caco-2 cells, hydrophobicity and slime production, in comparison to other Lactobacillus strains used as controls.

• Can Photodynamic Therapy Be an Alternative Method in Melanoma Treatment?

  Authors: Anna Choroman?ska, Julita Kulbacka, Agnieszka Chwi?kowska, Nina Sko?ucka, Andrzej Gamian, Jolanta Saczko

  10/2011;

  ISBN: 978-953-307-574-7

• Immunoregulatory potential of exopolysaccharide from Lactobacillus rhamnosus KL37: effects on the production of inflammatory mediators by mouse macrophages.

  Authors: Marta Ciszek-Lenda, Bernadeta Nowak, Małgorzata Sróttek, Andrzej Gamian, Janusz Marcinkiewicz

  International journal of experimental pathology. 09/2011; 92(6):382-91.

  The ability to produce exopolysaccharides (EPS) is widespread among lactobacilli including Lactobacillus rhamnosus, the commonly used probiotic bacteria. Exopolysaccharides are a major component ofThe ability to produce exopolysaccharides (EPS) is widespread among lactobacilli including Lactobacillus rhamnosus, the commonly used probiotic bacteria. Exopolysaccharides are a major component of the bacterial biofilm with a well-documented impact on adherence of bacteria to host cells. However, their immunoregulatory properties are unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the immunostimulatory potential of EPS derived from L. rhamnosus KL37. We investigated the effect of EPS on the production of inflammatory mediators by mouse peritoneal macrophages and compared it with the effect of Lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Exopolysaccharides, at concentrations higher than those of LPS, stimulated production of both pro-inflammatory (TNF-α, IL-6, IL-12) and anti-inflammatory (IL-10) cytokines. Interestingly, analysis of the balance of TNF-α/IL-10 production showed a potential pro-inflammatory effect of EPS. Furthermore, our data demonstrate that exposure of macrophages to LPS induced a state of hyporesponsiveness, as indicated by reduced production of TNF-α after restimulation with either LPS or EPS ('cross-tolerance'). By contrast, EPS could make cells tolerant only to subsequent stimulation by the same stimulus. We also examined the relationship between TNF-α production and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) by EPS and LPS. Pretreatment of macrophages with specific inhibitors of p38 and ERK MAPKs reduced TNF-α production induced by both stimuli to the same extent. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that EPS can effectively stimulate production of inflammatory mediators by macrophages in vitro. However, to predict whether EPS could be clinically useful as an immunomodulatory agent, further in vivo studies with highly purified EPS are necessary.

• O-aminoacylation of bacterial glycoconjugates: from native structure to vaccine design.

  Authors: Andrzej Gamian, Małgorzata Mieszała, Tomasz Lipiński, Katarzyna Zielińska-Kuźniarz, Monika Gawlik-Jędrysiak, Katarzyna Dzierzba, Jadwiga Pietkiewicz, Wiesław Szeja

  Current pharmaceutical biotechnology. 09/2011; 12(11):1781-91.

  The aminoacylation of bacterial polysaccharide antigens and its biological role are poorly understood, although it might be relevant in infection and immunity. Due to the lability of ester-linkedThe aminoacylation of bacterial polysaccharide antigens and its biological role are poorly understood, although it might be relevant in infection and immunity. Due to the lability of ester-linked substituents on glycoconjugate antigens, such groups usually escape detection during routine structural investigation. Of the few data available, those on the occurrence of glycine in the endotoxic lipopolysaccharides of Gram-negative bacteria are well documented. This article summarizes these data on glycine as an integral constituent of bacterial LPS and also some other amino-acid esters in the teichoic acids and phosphatidylglycerol of Gram-positive bacteria. The possible functions of such noncarbohydrate ester-linked substituents in bacterial antigens are discussed. Because glycine, an inherent component of bacterial lipopolysaccharides in the core region, is supposed to participate in epitope formation, such a structure may be considered for potential use in the construction of a vaccine with broad specificity.

• The effect of a one-year weight reduction program on serum uric acid in overweight/obese children and adolescents.

  Authors: Malgorzata Krzystek-Korpacka, Eliza Patryn, Irena Kustrzeba-Wojcicka, Joanna Chrzanowska, Andrzej Gamian, Anna Noczynska

  Clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine : CCLM / FESCC. 02/2011; 49(5):915-21.

  Hyperuricemia may underlie obesity and related disorders, but the impact of weight reduction and metformin on serum uric acid (sUA) in Caucasian children/adolescents is unknown. One hundred andHyperuricemia may underlie obesity and related disorders, but the impact of weight reduction and metformin on serum uric acid (sUA) in Caucasian children/adolescents is unknown. One hundred and thirteen children/adolescents were enrolled (83 completed) into 1-year weight reduction program (diet+exercise) without or with metformin. Anthropometric and biochemical measurements were conducted at baseline and at the end of follow-up (13 ± 3 months). sUA decreased in 86% females and 67% males. Significantly more patients substantially (≥ 10%) reduced their sUA than body mass index (BMI)%. In females, sUA decreased regardless of type of intervention, but more markedly in the metformin group, and ΔsUA correlated positively with ΔBMI%, ΔWHtR (waist-to-height ratio), Δinsulin, ΔHOMA (homeostasis model of assessment), and Δtriglycerides/high density lipoprotein (HDL), but correlated negatively with baseline sUA, HOMA, insulin, and triglycerides/HDL. Of these, metformin treatment, baseline sUA, and ΔBMI% were independent predictors of sUA reduction, explaining 77% of data variability. In males, sUA reduction was significant in the metformin group only, and negatively correlated with ΔWHR (waist-to-hip ratio), ΔWHtR, Δleptin, baseline sUA, and waist circumference. Of these, baseline sUA and ΔBMI% were independent predictors of sUA reduction, explaining 69% of data variability. Except for sUA, females reduced their BMI%, waist circumference, triglycerides, triglycerides/HDL and increased HDL, while males reduced total cholesterol. A longitudinal weight reduction program encompassing diet/exercise with or without metformin was more efficient in reducing sUA than weight and its effect on sUA and other metabolic parameters differed between genders. Weight loss did not condition sUA reduction, which was strongly dependent on baseline levels. The sUA reducing effects of metformin may contribute to its effects on blood pressure-lowering and endothelial function-improving properties in females.

• Quantitative indices of dynamics in concentrations of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) as prognostic factors in severe sepsis/septic shock patients--comparison with CRP and procalcitonin.

  Authors: Magdalena Mierzchala, Malgorzata Krzystek-Korpacka, Andrzej Gamian, Grazyna Durek

  Clinical biochemistry. 02/2011; 44(5-6):357-63.

  To devise and evaluate quantitative indices of dynamics in lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), CRP, and procalcitonin concentrations as prognostic markers in sepsis. Prospective observationalTo devise and evaluate quantitative indices of dynamics in lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), CRP, and procalcitonin concentrations as prognostic markers in sepsis. Prospective observational cross-sectional study with 5-day follow-up. Simple (Δ(5-1)) and relative (chain indices-based) rates for LBP (ELISA), procalcitonin (immunoluminometry), and CRP were devised. Admission concentrations of all markers were higher in septic patients than controls. Not the admission levels but markers' time-courses differed between survivors (declining) and non-survivors (persistently high). Simple and relative rates were greater in survivors than non-survivors. Their accuracies as outcome predictors were comparable, higher for LBP and CRP than PCT. At ~95% sensitivity, the highest specificity had LBP relative and simple rates. Except for sepsis severity scores, only LBP was independently associated with lethal outcome. For outcome prediction, the evaluation of dynamics of sepsis mediators, expressed by simple or relative rates, is a more suitable alternative to markers' peak values.

• Glycation of the muscle-specific enolase by reactive carbonyls: effect of temperature and the protection role of carnosine, pyridoxamine and phosphatidylserine.

  Authors: Jadwiga Pietkiewicz, Agnieszka Bronowicka-Szydełko, Katarzyna Dzierzba, Regina Danielewicz, Andrzej Gamian

  The protein journal. 02/2011; 30(3):149-58.

  Reactive carbonyls such as 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), trans-2-nonenal (T2 N), acrolein (ACR) can react readily with nucleophilic protein sites forming of advanced glycation end-products (AGE). InReactive carbonyls such as 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal (4-HNE), trans-2-nonenal (T2 N), acrolein (ACR) can react readily with nucleophilic protein sites forming of advanced glycation end-products (AGE). In this study, the human and pig muscle-specific enolase was used as a protein model for in vitro modification by 4-HNE, T2 N and ACR. While the human enolase interaction with reactive α-oxoaldehyde methylglyoxal (MOG) was demonstrated previously, the effect of 4-HNE, T2N and ACR has not been identified yet. Altering in catalytic function were observed after the enzyme incubation with these active compounds for 1-24 h at 25, 37 and 45 °C. The inhibition degree of enolase activity occurred in following order: 4-HNE > ACR > MOG > T2N and inactivation of pig muscle-specific enolase was more effective relatively to human enzyme. The efficiency of AGE formation depends on time and incubation temperature with glycating agent. More amounts of insoluble AGE were formed at 45 °C. We found that pyridoxamine and natural dipeptide carnosine counteracted AGE formation and protected enolase against the total loss of catalytic activity. Moreover, we demonstrated for the first time that phosphatidylserine may significantly protect enolase against decrease of catalytic activity in spite of AGE production.

• Circulating adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein, juvenile obesity, and metabolic syndrome.

  Authors: Malgorzata Krzystek-Korpacka, Eliza Patryn, Iwona Bednarz-Misa, Magdalena Mierzchala, Katarzyna Hotowy, Elzbieta Czapinska, Irena Kustrzeba-Wojcicka, Andrzej Gamian, Anna Noczynska

  Journal of pediatric endocrinology & metabolism : JPEM. 01/2011; 24(11-12):921-8.

  Adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (A-FABP) links obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) and might be targeted in future therapies. Its utility as a MetS biomarker has been suggested in adults butAdipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (A-FABP) links obesity and metabolic syndrome (MetS) and might be targeted in future therapies. Its utility as a MetS biomarker has been suggested in adults but has not been examined in children/adolescents. Our objectives were to identify metabolic parameters associated with A-FABP elevation in children and adolescents and to evaluate the effect of obesity intervention and A-FABP diagnostic utility. A-FABP and anthropometric, metabolic, and inflammatory indices were measured in 31 lean and 114 overweight/obese children and adolescents and reassessed after obesity intervention (1 year; diet and enhanced physical activity, with or without metformin). A-FABP was significantly higher in overweight/ obese than lean individuals, where it correlated with insulin, waist circumference (WC), and 2-h glucose independent of body mass index (BMI), age, gender, and developmental stage. The pattern of A-FABP associations differed between sexes. As a MetS indicator, A-FABP had 68% accuracy. The weight reduction program was effective in reducing A-FABP, BMI%, WC, triglycerides, and cholesterol. In conclusion, elevation in A-FABP is associated with MetS components independent of BMI status and can be reduced by diet and enhanced physical activity. A-FABP as a single MetS biomarker has a moderate accuracy.

• [High doses of tocopherol in the prevention and potentiation of dioxin in experimental inflammation-potential application].

  Authors: Ireneusz Całkosiński, Joanna Rosińczuk-Tonderys, Monika Szopa, Maciej Dobrzyński, Andrzej Gamian

  Postȩpy higieny i medycyny doświadczalnej (Online). 01/2011; 65:143-57.

  Emission of toxic and persistent organochlorine compounds into the environment is known to have been recently a very important environmental and health problem. One of the major groups of theseEmission of toxic and persistent organochlorine compounds into the environment is known to have been recently a very important environmental and health problem. One of the major groups of these compounds is the polychlorinated dibenzodioxins (PCDDs), commonly named dioxins, including 75 compounds composed of benzene rings with bound chlorine atoms in different positions and quantities. Polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are known to have a similar structure and properties. The biological effects of dioxins in food chains have been widely studied in the literature on the subject for the last four years. The major pathways of their impact on the organism are suspected to stimulate the cascade of inflammatory cytokines and the induction of oxidative stress. An effective way to prevent poisoning may, therefore, be expected to be administration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Recent studies in experimental animals have confirmed the protective action of high doses of tocopherol and mentioned substances against dioxins.

• [The functions of bacteriophage proteins].

  Authors: Ewa Brzozowska, Justyna Bazan, Andrzej Gamian

  Postȩpy higieny i medycyny doświadczalnej (Online). 01/2011; 65:167-76.

  Bacteriophages (phages) are viruses specific towards bacterial strains and are natural regulators of bacterial populations in nature. Interest in the therapeutic use of phages is growing due to theBacteriophages (phages) are viruses specific towards bacterial strains and are natural regulators of bacterial populations in nature. Interest in the therapeutic use of phages is growing due to the emergence of antibiotic resistant pathogens. Bacteriophage proteins are responsible for phage specificity and virulence. These proteins are i) adhesins, capable of recognizing specific receptors on the bacterial surface, ii) enzymes responsible for destroying bacterial cell wall components or bacterial slime, and iii) structural proteins making up the phage capsid. Bacteriophage enzymes destroy the bacterial cell wall from both outside and inside by hydrolyzing carbohydrate and protein components. All these proteins protect phage genetic material, secure injection of the phage nucleic acid into the bacterial cell, and promote phage propagation. Our better understanding of how bacterial viruses function may help to combat antibiotic resistant human pathogens and expand the use of bacteriophages to animal and plant care. Other applications may include food processing and environmental protection.

• Midkine, a multifunctional cytokine, in patients with severe sepsis and septic shock: a pilot study.

  Authors: Malgorzata Krzystek-Korpacka, Magdalena Mierzchala, Katarzyna Neubauer, Grazyna Durek, Andrzej Gamian

  Shock (Augusta, Ga.). 12/2010; 35(5):471-7.

  The objective of the study was to evaluate whether severe sepsis and septic shock are related to alterations in midkine concentrations, to identify disease-related factors associated with theseThe objective of the study was to evaluate whether severe sepsis and septic shock are related to alterations in midkine concentrations, to identify disease-related factors associated with these alterations, and to initially appraise whether midkine might serve as a biomarker in sepsis. Prospective observational cross-sectional study with 5-day follow-up. Circulating midkine was measured (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) in 38 septic (13 with severe sepsis, 25 with septic shock), 82 active inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) (26 with systemic inflammatory response syndrome [SIRS]) patients, and 87 healthy subjects. Midkine significantly increased along with a sequence: health-inflammation (IBD)-systemic inflammation (IBD-SIRS)-severe sepsis/septic shock. High midkine levels (>1,000 ng/L) were found in 63% of septic and in 19% of IBD-SIRS patients, whereas extremely high concentrations (>5,000 ng/L) were found in 16% vs. 4%. Although not different at admission, midkine gradually decreased in severe sepsis and remained high in shock. Similarly, persistently high midkine was observed in patients with cardiovascular insufficiency (CVI) and in mechanically ventilated as compared with normalizing levels in patients without CVI and not requiring ventilation. The differences in devised simple rates (Δ5th-1st) were significant in all these cases. Accordingly, admission midkine was higher in patients with metabolic acidosis. Concerning pathogen, gram-positive infections were associated with the highest midkine levels. In conclusion, sepsis and septic shock are associated with midkine elevation, substantially more pronounced than in inflammation, even systemic, revealing a new potential mediator of deregulation of neutrophil migration. Sepsis-related global hypoxia seems to contribute to midkine elevation. Our results substantiate further research on possible midkine application as a sepsis biomarker: in differentiating SIRS from sepsis and identifying gram-positive sepsis and septic patients at risk of CVI and shock.

• Light insensitive silver(I) cyanoximates as antimicrobial agents for indwelling medical devices.

  Authors: Nikolay Gerasimchuk, Andrzej Gamian, Garrett Glover, Bogumila Szponar

  Inorganic chemistry. 11/2010; 49(21):9863-74.

  Ten silver(I) cyanoximates of AgL composition (L = NC-C(NO)-R, where R is electron withdrawing groups: -CN, -C(O)NR(2), -C(O)R' (alkyl), -C(O)OEt, 2-heteroaryl fragments such as 2-pyridyl,Ten silver(I) cyanoximates of AgL composition (L = NC-C(NO)-R, where R is electron withdrawing groups: -CN, -C(O)NR(2), -C(O)R' (alkyl), -C(O)OEt, 2-heteroaryl fragments such as 2-pyridyl, 2-benzimidazolyl, 2-benzoxazolyl, 2-benzthiazolyl) were synthesized and characterized using spectroscopic methods and X-ray analysis. Crystal structures of four complexes were determined and revealed the formation of two-dimensional (2D) coordination polymers of different complexity in which anions exhibit bridging or combined chelate and bridging binding modes. In these compounds, anions are in the nitroso form. All studied AgL complexes are sparingly soluble in water and are thermally stable to 150 °C. Synthesized compounds demonstrated remarkable insensitivity toward visible light and UV-radiation, which was explained based on their polymeric structures with multiple covalent bonds between bridging cyanoxime ligands and Ag(I) centers. All 10 silver(I) cyanoximates were tested in vitro on the subject of their antimicrobial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus sp., Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus hirae, Streptococcus mutans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Mycobacterium fortuitum as well as against Candida albicans in solutions, and in the solid state as pressed pellets and dried filter paper disks presoaked with solutions of AgL in DMF. Results showed pronounced antimicrobial activity for all investigated complexes. A combination of five factors: (1) light insensitivity, (2) poor water solubility, (3) high thermal stability, (4) lack of toxicity of organic ligands, and (5) in vitro antimicrobial activity allows development of silver(I) cyanoximates for medical applications. These include antimicrobial additives to acrylate glue, cured by UV-radiation, used in introduction of prosthetic joints and dental implants, and prevention of biofilm formation on several types of indwelling medical devices.

• Gender-specific association of serum uric acid with metabolic syndrome and its components in juvenile obesity.

  Authors: Malgorzata Krzystek-Korpacka, Eliza Patryn, Irena Kustrzeba-Wojcicka, Joanna Chrzanowska, Andrzej Gamian, Anna Noczynska

  Clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine : CCLM / FESCC. 10/2010; 49(1):129-36.

  Hyperuricemia has been implicated in the pathogenesis of obesity and related metabolic abnormalities. Studies on the association between serum uric acid (sUA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) inHyperuricemia has been implicated in the pathogenesis of obesity and related metabolic abnormalities. Studies on the association between serum uric acid (sUA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in juvenile obesity are scant. The effect of gender has not been evaluated. sUA (uricase method), anthropometric and biochemical indices were measured in gender-stratified children/adolescents consisting of 113 overweight/obese and 71 lean individuals. In males, sUA was significantly elevated in overweight as well as obese patients. sUA was strongly associated with obesity indices and reflected sexual development, decreases in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and moderately, the number of MetS components. Waist circumference (WC) and Tanner stage explained 40% of sUA variability. Controlling for body mass index (BMI) and other MetS components, sUA was associated with abdominal obesity, explaining 30% of variability in WC. In females, sUA was significantly increased in obesity, high blood pressure (BP), and MetS and corresponded with the number of MetS components, indices of glucose metabolism, triglycerides (TG), and the atherogenecity index. Insulin-resistance (IR) (homeostasis model assessment; HOMA) and high BP explained 29% of sUA variability, whereas sUA, while controlling for BMI, age, and other MetS components, was associated with hypertriglyceridemia, hyperglycemia, high BP, and abdominal obesity. IR mediated the associations with high TG and glucose. The association between sUA and MetS components in juvenile obesity is gender-specific, with females being related more closely and to more metabolic abnormalities. It may explain why, despite its lower concentrations, sUA is an independent predictor of mortality from all causes and from vascular diseases exclusively in females. Our findings may help in identifying metabolic abnormalities which may possibly be targeted by reducing sUA in males and females.

• Immunochemical studies of trehalose-containing major glycolipid from Tsukamurella pulmonis.

  Authors: Mariola Paściak, Zbigniew Kaczyński, Buko Lindner, Otto Holst, Andrzej Gamian

  Carbohydrate research. 07/2010; 345(11):1570-4.

  The chemical structure of the major glycolipid present in the chloroform-methanol extract of bacterial biomass of Tsukamurella pulmonis is reported. This compound was purified by TLC and HPLC. TheThe chemical structure of the major glycolipid present in the chloroform-methanol extract of bacterial biomass of Tsukamurella pulmonis is reported. This compound was purified by TLC and HPLC. The sugar analysis revealed only glucose. Detailed chemical analyses, NMR, and MALDI FT-ICR-mass spectrometric studies identified 2,3-di-O-acyl-alpha-d-glucopyranosyl-(1-->1)-alpha-d-glucopyranose as the final structure. Short branched fatty acids (4:0 or 5:0) were linked to C-3 and saturated, mono, and diunsaturated 18:0, 18:1, 18:2, 20:1, 20:2, and 20:0 to C-2 of the same glucose residue. ELISA tests revealed the weak cross-reactivity of the glycolipid with rabbit antisera against cells of T. paurometabola, Rhodococcus wratislaviensis, and Nocardiopsis dassonvillei.

• Structure of the O-polysaccharide of Citrobacter youngae PCM 1503.

  Authors: Nina A Kocharova, Ewa Katzenellenbogen, George V Zatonsky, Andrzej Gamian, Ewa Brzozowska, Alexander S Shashkov, Yuriy A Knirel

  Carbohydrate research. 07/2010; 345(17):2571-3.

  The O-polysaccharide (O-antigen) was obtained from the lipopolysaccharide of Citrobacter youngae PCM 1503, which is currently classified to the O7 serogroup. The following structure of theThe O-polysaccharide (O-antigen) was obtained from the lipopolysaccharide of Citrobacter youngae PCM 1503, which is currently classified to the O7 serogroup. The following structure of the tetrasaccharide repeating unit of the polysaccharide was established by sugar and methylation analyses along with 1D and 2D (1)H and (13)C NMR spectroscopy: Structural and serological data of the O-antigen suggest that strain PCM 1503 should be reclassified to a new Citrobacter serogroup.

• Structural characterization of the major glycolipids from Arthrobacter globiformis and Arthrobacter scleromae.

  Authors: Mariola Paściak, Patricia Sanchez-Carballo, Anna Duda-Madej, Buko Lindner, Andrzej Gamian, Otto Holst

  Carbohydrate research. 03/2010; 345(10):1497-503.

  Arthrobacter is a genus of Gram-positive bacteria widely distributed in soil. The ability to catabolize a variety of xenobiotics has shown their potential as a detoxifying agent. Recently,Arthrobacter is a genus of Gram-positive bacteria widely distributed in soil. The ability to catabolize a variety of xenobiotics has shown their potential as a detoxifying agent. Recently, Arthrobacter has been also recognized as an opportunistic pathogen. Glycolipids from A. scleromae, a clinical isolate, and A. globiformis, from soil, were isolated by chloroform-methanol extraction and subsequently purified using column chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography. Structural studies were carried out utilizing specific chemical degradation, matrix-assisted laser-desorption/ionization Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (MALDI FT ICR-MS), and 1D and 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The major glycolipids in A. scleromae and A. globiformis were found to be a diglycosylglycerol with the structure alpha-Manp-(1-->3)-alpha-Manp-(1-->3)-Gro (Man A-Man B-Gro; G1), and a monoglycosylglycerol with the structure beta-Galp-(1-->3)-Gro (G2). Glycolipids were acylated at positions 1 of Gro and 6 of Man B in the case of G1 and at positions 1 and 2 of Gro in the case of G2. The distribution of the fatty acids was different in both species. A. scleromae glycolipids contained heptadecanoic acid while in the A. globiformis glycolipids mainly pentadecanoic acid could be detected. The substitution by hexadecanoic acid was proportionally similar in both species. The taxonomical value of major glycolipids from Arthrobacter is also presented.

• Impaired erythrocyte antioxidant defense in active inflammatory bowel disease: impact of anemia and treatment.

  Authors: Malgorzata Krzystek-Korpacka, Katarzyna Neubauer, Izabela Berdowska, Bogdan Zielinski, Leszek Paradowski, Andrzej Gamian

  Inflammatory bowel diseases. 02/2010; 16(9):1467-75.

  Oxidative stress contributes to the propagation and exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) but the status of erythrocyte antioxidant defense remains unknown. Erythrocyte activities ofOxidative stress contributes to the propagation and exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) but the status of erythrocyte antioxidant defense remains unknown. Erythrocyte activities of superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD1), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPx1) were determined in 174 IBD patients and 105 controls and referred to IBD activity, inflammation severity, nutritional status, systemic oxidative stress, anemia, and treatment. Catalase and GPx1 activities were decreased in active IBD, whereas SOD1 became upregulated by IBD-related oxidative stress. In Crohn's disease (CD) corticosteroids decreased SOD1 activity. SOD1 correlated indirectly with CD activity and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and directly with transferrin. In ulcerative colitis (UC) anemia downregulated SOD1. Decreases in GPx activity corresponded with IBD activity, anemia, inflammation, and malnutrition. Oxidative stress in UC and corticosteroids in CD also downregulated GPx. Catalase activity was decreased by CD-related anemia, correlating directly with hemoglobin, and indirectly with CD activity, inflammatory and protein oxidative stress markers. When co-analyzed, anemia but not CD activity significantly contributed to catalase downregulation. In UC, catalase activity corresponded indirectly with UC endoscopic activity and inflammation and directly with hemoglobin. UC activity, anemia, and treatment with azathioprine negatively affected catalase. As indicators of active IBD, GPx1 showed a diagnostic accuracy of 73%, whereas catalase showed 63% as compared to 74% of C-reactive protein and ESR. Erythrocyte antioxidant defense is impaired in active IBD. SOD1, GPx1, and CAT activities are differently affected by the disease type, activity, anemia, inflammation, oxidative stress, and treatment. As an active IBD indicator, GPx1 was comparable to C-reactive protein and ESR.