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Title: GAD 65 and its role in pancreatic tissue survival.
Creator: Kumari, Neeta., Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Department of Biomedical Science
Abstract/Description: We employed three genotypes of GAD 65, wildtype (GAD 65 +/+), heterozygous (GAD 65 +/-) and knockout (GAD 65 -/-) to investigate the role of GAD 65 in survival of pancreatic islets. We analyzed the mRNA expression of pro-survival proteins including Bcl2 and Bax in pancreas of wildtype, heterozygous and knockout using Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). The level of expression of Bcl2 mRNA was down regulated in knockout mice pancreas and Bax to Bcl2 ratio was found higher...
Show moreWe employed three genotypes of GAD 65, wildtype (GAD 65 +/+), heterozygous (GAD 65 +/-) and knockout (GAD 65 -/-) to investigate the role of GAD 65 in survival of pancreatic islets. We analyzed the mRNA expression of pro-survival proteins including Bcl2 and Bax in pancreas of wildtype, heterozygous and knockout using Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR). The level of expression of Bcl2 mRNA was down regulated in knockout mice pancreas and Bax to Bcl2 ratio was found higher in knockout mice pancreas suggesting higher cell death rate. However, further studies are required to recognize and understand the specific connections between apoptotic pathways and GAD 65 in pancreatic islets.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3342206
Subject Headings: Glutamic acids, Antagonists, Cellular signal transduction, Glutamic acid, Metabolism
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A comparative approach to understanding sea turtle hatchling metabolism during emergence.
Creator: Redfearn, Erin Cherish., Florida Atlantic University, Wyneken, Jeanette
Abstract/Description: Sea turtle nests were compared to determine the effects of nest depth on hatchling anaerobic metabolism in Juno Beach, Florida, USA. In situ nests of 3 species (Caretta caretta, Chelonia mydas and Dermochelys coriacea) were compared. Relocated loggerhead nests were studied under an experimental regime. Nest temperatures and oxygen concentrations were monitored. On the night of first emergence, blood samples were taken from hatchlings resting at the nest chamber bottom and sand surface, and...
Show moreSea turtle nests were compared to determine the effects of nest depth on hatchling anaerobic metabolism in Juno Beach, Florida, USA. In situ nests of 3 species (Caretta caretta, Chelonia mydas and Dermochelys coriacea) were compared. Relocated loggerhead nests were studied under an experimental regime. Nest temperatures and oxygen concentrations were monitored. On the night of first emergence, blood samples were taken from hatchlings resting at the nest chamber bottom and sand surface, and digging to the sand surface. Samples were analyzed for lactate concentrations. Blood lactate levels were high in hatchlings actively digging and low for those resting. Lactate levels differed among species and nest depths. Within in situ nests, actively digging green turtle hatchlings had the highest lactate, followed by loggerhead hatchlings and leatherbacks (lowest). Loggerhead hatchlings digging from deeper relocated nests had higher lactate than those digging from shallower depths.
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Date Issued: 2000
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/15770
Subject Headings: Sea turtles--Metabolism, Loggerhead turtle, Green turtle, Leatherback turtle
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: RNA oxidative damage and ribosomal RNA surveillance under oxidative stress.
Creator: Liu, Min, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: We have studies oxidative damage of RNA, a major type of cellular macromolecules. RNA is a primary target of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Under oxidative stress, most nucleic acid damages in Escherichia coli (E.coli) are present in RNA as shown by high levels of 8-oxo-G, an oxidized form of guanine. Increased RNA oxidation is closely correlated to cell death under oxidative stress. Surprisingly, neither RNA structure nor association with proteins protects RNA from oxidation... Our results...
Show moreWe have studies oxidative damage of RNA, a major type of cellular macromolecules. RNA is a primary target of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Under oxidative stress, most nucleic acid damages in Escherichia coli (E.coli) are present in RNA as shown by high levels of 8-oxo-G, an oxidized form of guanine. Increased RNA oxidation is closely correlated to cell death under oxidative stress. Surprisingly, neither RNA structure nor association with proteins protects RNA from oxidation... Our results demonstrate a major role for RNA degradation in controlling oxidized RNA. We have identified activities that may work in specific pathways for selectively degrading damaged RNA. These activities may play pivotal rold in controlling oxidized RNA and protecting cells under oxidative stress.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3355620
Subject Headings: RNA, Metabolism, Cellular signal transduction, Genetic translation, Molecular biology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Reciprocal regulation between taurine and glutamate response via Ca2+ - dependent pathways in retinal third-order neurons.
Creator: Bulley, Simon, Shen, Wen
Date Issued: 2010-08-24
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3327274
Subject Headings: Amacrine Cells*/cytology, Amacrine Cells*/drug effects, Amacrine Cells*/metabolism, Ambystoma, Calcium/metabolism, Calcium Channels/metabolism, Cells, Cultured, Enzyme Inhibitors/metabolism, Excitatory Amino Acid Agonists/pharmacology, GABA Antagonists/pharmacology, Glutamic Acid/metabolism, Glycine Agents/pharmacology, Kainic Acid/pharmacology, Membrane Glycoproteins, Membrane Potentials, Neurotransmitter Agents, Retinal Ganglion Cells, Signal Transduction, Synaptic Transmission
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The Effect of a Supportive-Educative Nursing Intervention on Weight Loss and Perceived Self Care in Overweight Women With Metabolic Syndrome.
Creator: Fleck, Laureen, Parker, Marilyn, Florida Atlantic University
Abstract/Description: Metabolic syndrome is a constellation of risk factors that are precursors to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. More women than men are diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Emphasis on diagnosis of pre-diabetes has resulted in further interest in metabolic syndrome and the need for weight reduction. Advanced practice nurses care for women with overweight and obesity in the primary care setting; however there is a lack of evidence to support the effectiveness of nursing interventions to assist...
Show moreMetabolic syndrome is a constellation of risk factors that are precursors to diabetes and cardiovascular disease. More women than men are diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Emphasis on diagnosis of pre-diabetes has resulted in further interest in metabolic syndrome and the need for weight reduction. Advanced practice nurses care for women with overweight and obesity in the primary care setting; however there is a lack of evidence to support the effectiveness of nursing interventions to assist women with metabolic syndrome lose weight. Based on Orem's Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory, this study investigated the use of a specific supportive-educative nursing intervention to assist individuals make healthy lifestyle choices to reduce body weight. A pre-test post-test, two group experimental design was used. It was hypothesized that women given individualized support, education, and guidance about lifestyle modification, which included carbohydrate counting, would lose more weight and have greater self-care ability than women given general support and education. The sample included 51 pre-menopausal women between ages 19 and 55 who had been diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. Body weight and perceived self-care, using the Self-as-Carer inventory, were measured at the onset of the study and again three months later. The two groups did not differ significantly as to weight or perceived self-care at baseline or at conclusion of the study. A repeated measures analysis of variance for weight loss and perception of self care was calculated and the results indicated that there was no significant difference in weight loss (p=.13) or perception of self care (p=.85) between the two groups. The use of a supportive-educative individualized nursing intervention enhanced participant awareness of healthy lifestyle choices. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of the intervention with a larger, more ethnically diverse sample and with participants diagnosed with other metabolic disorders.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000620
Subject Headings: Metabolic syndrome, Obesity--Treatment, Lipids--Metabolism--Disorders--Treatment, Integrated delivery of health care, Self-care, Health, Nurse and patient
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Chemical composition and metabolic rates of gelatinous zooplankton from midwater and benthic boundary layer environments off Cape Hatteras, North Carolina, USA.
Creator: Bailey, T. G., Youngbluth, Marsh J., Owen, G. P.
Date Issued: 1995
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FCLA/DT/3350874
Subject Headings: Zooplankton, Metabolism--Measurement, Biochemistry, Hatteras, Cape (N.C.), Benthos
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Eryloside F, a Novel Penasterol Disaccharide Possessing Potent Thrombin Receptor Antagonist Activity.
Creator: Stead, Paul, Hiscox, Steve, Robinson, Phil S., Pike, Nicholas B., Sidebottom, Philip J., Roberts, Andrew D., Taylor, Nicholas L., Wright, Amy E., Pomponi, Shirley A., Langley, David
Date Issued: 2000
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FCLA/DT/2848300
Subject Headings: Disaccharides --Conformations, Peptide drugs, Hepatocyte growth factor --Receptors, Sponges, Steroid harmone metabolism
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effect of ingesting a caffeine-enhanced sport drink on resting energy expenditures and blood pressure in females.
Creator: Klepacki, Brian, Graves, B. Sue, Hellberg, Peter
Date Issued: 2009-07-31
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/3327168
Subject Headings: Caffeine --Administration & Dosage, Energy Metabolism, Rest --Physiology, Blood Pressure, Blood Pressure --Physiology, Female, Dietary Supplements
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Creation of an aconitase overexpression strain of Saccharomyces cerevisiae for lifespan analysis.
Creator: Nunes, Steve., Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Abstract/Description: In my thesis work, I attempted to construct a plasmid that would allow stable integration of genes into the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast genome under the control of the repressible TetO promoter. The yeast ACO1 gene was cloned under the control of the TetO operator and the tTA transactivator. This construct was inserted into yeast cells in order to observe the effects of aconitase overexpression on aging. Unfortunately, the transformed cells appeared incapable of aconitase expression as...
Show moreIn my thesis work, I attempted to construct a plasmid that would allow stable integration of genes into the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast genome under the control of the repressible TetO promoter. The yeast ACO1 gene was cloned under the control of the TetO operator and the tTA transactivator. This construct was inserted into yeast cells in order to observe the effects of aconitase overexpression on aging. Unfortunately, the transformed cells appeared incapable of aconitase expression as determined by glutamic acid auxptrophy, a phenotype of aconitase mutants. We have sequenced the pIT1ACO1 plasmid and have found many abnormalities in the promoter region. If the plasmid can be made to function as intended, the resulting yeast strain can be used in the future to determine if aconitase plays an important role in cellular aging.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3359306
Subject Headings: Yeast fungi, Research, Methodology, Microbial genetics, Genetic engineering, Aging, Molecular aspects, Cell metabolism, Mutation (Biology)
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effect of mutated aconitase on yeast longevity.
Creator: Kwan, CJ., Harriet L. Wilkes Honors College
Abstract/Description: Aconitase is an important enzyme in the citric Acid Cycle, is needed for maintenance of mitochondrial DNA, is a key regulator of iron in the cell, and is very sensitive to oxidative stress. We have isolatd the yeast ACO1 gene, which codes for aconitase, and randomly mutated it to create a mutant library of cells each expressing a different version of ACO1. We will select for oxidative stress resistant aconitase in S. cerevisiae by subjecting strains to successive rounds of heat shock and...
Show moreAconitase is an important enzyme in the citric Acid Cycle, is needed for maintenance of mitochondrial DNA, is a key regulator of iron in the cell, and is very sensitive to oxidative stress. We have isolatd the yeast ACO1 gene, which codes for aconitase, and randomly mutated it to create a mutant library of cells each expressing a different version of ACO1. We will select for oxidative stress resistant aconitase in S. cerevisiae by subjecting strains to successive rounds of heat shock and competitive growth against other mutants. The "winner" of this competition will then be analyzed for which version of aconitase it is expressing, which may lead to increased longevity.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3359310
Subject Headings: Yeast fungi, Research, Microbial genetics, Aging, Molecular aspects, Mutation (Biology), Cell metabolism
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Cleavage of brain glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 by calpain under pathological conditions.
Creator: Buddhala, Chandana, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: Brain glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of the major inhibitory neurotransmitter-amino butyric acid (GABA) from the substrate L-glutamic acid. Severe lapse in GABA neurotransmission is one of the etiologies documented in the manifestation of certain neurodegenerative diseases such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease etc. Because GAD65 synthesizes GABA, any modulation of GAD65, therefore, has direct implications on...
Show moreBrain glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the biosynthesis of the major inhibitory neurotransmitter-amino butyric acid (GABA) from the substrate L-glutamic acid. Severe lapse in GABA neurotransmission is one of the etiologies documented in the manifestation of certain neurodegenerative diseases such as epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease etc. Because GAD65 synthesizes GABA, any modulation of GAD65, therefore, has direct implications on the quanta of GABA released at the synapse. Hence, the major objective of this study was to focus on the regulation of GAD65, with special emphasis on investigating the proteolytic cleavage of fGAD65. Previously, we have shown in vitro that GAD65 was cleaved to form its truncated form (tGAD65), which was more active than the full length form (fGAD65). The enzyme responsible for cleavage was later identified as calpain. Calpain is known to cleave its substrates either under a transient physiologica l stimulus or upon a sustained pathological insult. However, the precise role of calpain cleavage of fGAD65 is poorly understood. In this study, we examined the cleavage of fGAD65 under a range of conditions encompassing both physiological and pathological aspects, including rats under ischemia/reperfusion insult, rat brain synaptosomes or primary neuronal cultures subjected to excitotoxic stimulation with KCl. It was observed that the formation of tGAD65 progressively increased with increasing stimulus concentration. More importantly, cleavage of synaptic vesicle (SV) - associated fGAD65 by calpain was demonstrated, and the resulting tGAD65 harboring the active site of the enzyme was detached from the SVs. Vesicular uptake of the newly synthesized GABA into the SVs was found to be reduced in calpain treated SVs. Furthermore, we also observed that the levels of tGAD65 in the focal cerebral ischemic rat brain tissue increased corresponding to the elevation of local glutamate indica, d by in vivo micro dialysis. Based on these observations, we conclude that calpain cleavage of fGAD65 occurs under pathological conditions.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3342053
Subject Headings: Glutamic acids, Antagonists, Proteolytic enzymes, Research, Cellular signal transduction, Calpain, Glutamic acid, Metabolism
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Determining the subcellular localization of a group II p21-activated kinase - PAK6.
Creator: John, Ciny, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Department of Biomedical Science
Abstract/Description: p-21-activated kinase 6 (PAK6) is a serine-threonine protein kinase originally identified as an Androgen Receptor (AR) interacting protein. In current study, we determined the subcellular localization of PAK6 through mutational analysis. We have found that the N-terminal CRIB domain is partly responsible for plasma membrane targeting, the region between amino acid residues #292 to #368 is functionally relevant to plasma membrane localization and that amino acid residues #119 through #190 are...
Show morep-21-activated kinase 6 (PAK6) is a serine-threonine protein kinase originally identified as an Androgen Receptor (AR) interacting protein. In current study, we determined the subcellular localization of PAK6 through mutational analysis. We have found that the N-terminal CRIB domain is partly responsible for plasma membrane targeting, the region between amino acid residues #292 to #368 is functionally relevant to plasma membrane localization and that amino acid residues #119 through #190 are responsible for nuclear targeting of PAK6, in addition to a stretch of positively charged N-terminal residues (#2-#11) since mutants lacking this sequence mis-localizes to cytoplasm. In junction forming epithelial cells, PAK6 is demonstrated to co-localize with B-catenin at adherens junctions, suggesting that PAK6 is an activation-dependent event and that PAK6 translocates from plasma membrane to the cytoplasm in response activation via the PKA signal pathway.
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Date Issued: 2012
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/3355569
Subject Headings: Cellular signal transduction, Serine proteinases, Phosphorylation, Protein kinases, Pathophysiology, Phosphoroproteins, Metabolism
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Acute and temporal responses of brain–derived neurotrophic factor and Interleukin-6 to high and low repetition resistance training programs.
Creator: Quiles, Justin M., Zourdos, Michael C., Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine if resistance exercise altered peripheral BDNF concentration. Eighteen trained male subjects were split into two groups performing varied repetition ranges. DUP-HR and DUP-LR groups trained 3x/week for 8 weeks, and were equated for total volume (repetitions X sets X intensity). Plasma BDNF and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were measured prior to and immediately following the first exercise session of weeks 1, 2, 4 and 6. Pre-exercise levels were also...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine if resistance exercise altered peripheral BDNF concentration. Eighteen trained male subjects were split into two groups performing varied repetition ranges. DUP-HR and DUP-LR groups trained 3x/week for 8 weeks, and were equated for total volume (repetitions X sets X intensity). Plasma BDNF and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels were measured prior to and immediately following the first exercise session of weeks 1, 2, 4 and 6. Pre-exercise levels were also assessed prior to the second and third sessions of week 1 and 6. Lastly, resting levels were measured before and after training intervention. No group differences (p>0.05) were detected for either biomarker. An acute BDNF elevation (p=0.018) was detected only in the final week of training. IL-6 elevations were detected at all acute measurements (p<0.01). BDNF and IL-6 percentage change correlated significantly (p<0.05) in week-1. No chronic alterations were observed (p>0.05).
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004461, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004461
Subject Headings: Bioenergetics, Cognitive science, Exercise -- Physiological aspects, Kinesiology, Metabolic syndrome -- Pathophysiology, Neurons -- Physiology, Neurophysiology, Neurotrophic functions
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effect of menopausal status on substrate utilization in younger women during submaximal exercise.
Creator: Pittinger, Elizabeth Smith, Zoeller, Robert F., Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine if surgically-induced menopause in younger women affects substrate utilization during submaximal exercise while controlling for other potential confounds. METHODS: Thirteen untrained female subjects (33-50 years old) were recruited: oophorectomized (Group O = 5) and premenopausal controls (Group C = 8). Two separate visits included: body composition and maximal treadmill exercise test; followed by substrate utilization via open-circuit spirometry...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine if surgically-induced menopause in younger women affects substrate utilization during submaximal exercise while controlling for other potential confounds. METHODS: Thirteen untrained female subjects (33-50 years old) were recruited: oophorectomized (Group O = 5) and premenopausal controls (Group C = 8). Two separate visits included: body composition and maximal treadmill exercise test; followed by substrate utilization via open-circuit spirometry during 45 minutes of treadmill walking at 50% VO2max. RESULTS: When controlling for multiple variables affecting whole-body substrate utilization (age, VO2max, physical activity, body composition, fasting glucose, menstrual phase and diet), there was no difference in substrate utilization between pre- and postmenopausal women as measured by respiratory exchange ratio (RER) (0.83 ± 0.04 v 0.84 ± 0.03, p=0.47). CONCLUSIONS: Menopausal status does not appear to have an effect on substrate utilization during submaximal exercise in younger women.
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Date Issued: 2015
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004400, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004400
Subject Headings: Lipids--Metabolism, Exercise for women--Physiological aspects, Menopause--Physiological aspects, Endocrine gynecology
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effect of acute moderate-intensity continuous and high intensity interval exercise on serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor in recreationally trained males.
Creator: Mock, Thomas J., Whitehurst, Michael, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Abstract/Description: BDNF is a neurotrophin that enhances neural health and is increased by exercise. PURPOSE: To compare moderate continuous (MCE) and high-intensity interval exercise (HIE) effects on serum BDNF levels, and examine the relationship between BDNF and lactate. METHODS: Seven males completed a VO2peak test and two protocols on separate days, (MCE) 28 min at 60% Workrate max (WRmax) and (HIE) 28 min of intervals at 90%WRmax (10- 1 min intervals separated by 2 min of rest). Serum BDNF and lactate were...
Show moreBDNF is a neurotrophin that enhances neural health and is increased by exercise. PURPOSE: To compare moderate continuous (MCE) and high-intensity interval exercise (HIE) effects on serum BDNF levels, and examine the relationship between BDNF and lactate. METHODS: Seven males completed a VO2peak test and two protocols on separate days, (MCE) 28 min at 60% Workrate max (WRmax) and (HIE) 28 min of intervals at 90%WRmax (10- 1 min intervals separated by 2 min of rest). Serum BDNF and lactate were determined prior, during, and following both protocols. RESULTS: BDNF levels (pg/mL) increased from baseline during HIE and MCE (p<.05). The BDNF response to HIE correlated with lactate for area under the curve (AUC) (r=0.901; P<0.05). CONCLUSION: HIE is an effective alternative to MCE at increasing BDNF. Additionally, lactate may act as a measure of intensity or a mediator of the BDNF response to exercise.
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Date Issued: 2014
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004219, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004219
Subject Headings: Biochemical markers., Neurons--Physiology., Cell aging--Physiology., Neurotrophic function., Metabolic syndrome--Pathophysiology.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: A role for polynucleotide phosphorylase in protecting cells and controlling RNA quality under oxidative stress.
Creator: Wu, Jinhua., Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
Abstract/Description: RNA damage occurring under oxidative stress has been shown to cause RNA dysfunction and must be detrimental to cells and organisms. We propose that damaged RNA can be removed by specific RNA surveillance activities. In this work, we investigated the role of polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase), a 3'->5' exoribonuclease, in protecting the cells against oxidative stress and eliminating oxidatively-damaged RNA. Previously, it was reported that E. coli PNPase has a higher affinity to poly(8-oxoG...
Show moreRNA damage occurring under oxidative stress has been shown to cause RNA dysfunction and must be detrimental to cells and organisms. We propose that damaged RNA can be removed by specific RNA surveillance activities. In this work, we investigated the role of polynucleotide phosphorylase (PNPase), a 3'->5' exoribonuclease, in protecting the cells against oxidative stress and eliminating oxidatively-damaged RNA. Previously, it was reported that E. coli PNPase has a higher affinity to poly(8-oxoG:A). We further confirmed that E. coli PNPase can specifically bind to an oxidized RNA with a high affinity. An E. coli strain deficient in PNPase (pnp) is hypersensitive to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Importantly, the level of H2O2-induced RNA damage, measured by the content of 8-hydroxyguanosine, increases significantly in the pnp mutant cells. Consistent with the notion that PNPase plays a direct role in these processes, introduction of the pnp gene encoding E. coli PNPase can restore the viability and RNA oxidation level of the pnp mutant cells in response to H2O2 treatment. Interestingly, degradosome-association is not required for PNPase to protect cell against oxidative stress. PNPase is evolutionary conserved in most of organisms of all domains of life. The human polynucleotide phosphorylase (hPNPase) localizes mainly in mitochondria and plays pleiotropic roles in cell differentiation and has been previously shown to bind 8- oxoG-RNA with a high affinity. Here we show that similar to E. coli PNPase, hPNPase plays an indispensable role in protecting HeLa cells against oxidative stress. The viability in HeLa cell and 8-oxoG levels in RNA are inversely correlated in response to H2O2- treatment. After removal of oxidative challenge, the elevated level of 8-oxoG in RNA decreases, suggesting the existence of surveillance mechanism(s) for cleaning up oxidized RNA., We have shown that hPNPase may be responsible for the surveillance of oxidized RNA in mammalian cells.Overexpresion of hPNPase reduces RNA oxidation and increases HeLa cell viability against H2O2 insult. Conversely, hPNPase knockdown decreases the viability and increases 8-oxoG level in HeLa cells exposed to H2O2. Taken together, our results suggest that RNA oxidation is a challenging problem for living organisms, and PNPase may play an important role in protecting both prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells by limiting damage to RNA under oxidative stress.
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Date Issued: 2008
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/186302
Subject Headings: RNA, Metabolism, Biopolymers, Physiological transport, Bacterial genetics, Proteins, Synthesis, Cellular signal transduction
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: The effects of caffeine supplementation on strength and muscular endurance in resistance-trained women.
Creator: Goldstein, Erica R., College of Education, Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Abstract/Description: The purpose of this study was to determine the acute effects of caffeine supplementation on strength and muscular endurance in resistance-trained women. In a randomized manner, 15 women consumed caffeine (6 mg/kg) or placebo (PL) seven days apart. Sixty minutes following supplementation, participants performed a one repetition maximum (1RM) barbell bench press test and repetitions to failure at 60% of 1RM. Heart rate and blood pressure were assessed at rest, 60 minutes post-consumption, and...
Show moreThe purpose of this study was to determine the acute effects of caffeine supplementation on strength and muscular endurance in resistance-trained women. In a randomized manner, 15 women consumed caffeine (6 mg/kg) or placebo (PL) seven days apart. Sixty minutes following supplementation, participants performed a one repetition maximum (1RM) barbell bench press test and repetitions to failure at 60% of 1RM. Heart rate and blood pressure were assessed at rest, 60 minutes post-consumption, and immediately following completion of repetitions to failure. Repeated measures ANOVA indicated a significantly greater bench press maximum with caffeine (p<0.05) (52.9 « 11.1 kg vs. 52.1 « 11.7 kg) with no significant differences between conditions in 60% 1RM repetitions (p=0.81). Systolic blood pressure was significantly greater post-exercise, with caffeine (p<0.05) (116.8 « 5.3 mmHg vs. 112.9 « 4.9 mmHg). Our findings indicate a moderate dose of caffeine may be sufficient for enhancing strength performance in resistance-trained women.
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Date Issued: 2009
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/FAU/187211
Subject Headings: Athletes, Nutrition, Endurance sports, Exercise, Physiological aspects, Dietary supplements, Physiological effect, Caffeine, Metabolism
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Relationships of fibroblast growth factor 21 with inflammation and insulin resistance in response to acute exercise in obese individuals.
Creator: Slusher, Aaron L., Huang, Chun-Jung, Florida Atlantic University, College of Education, Department of Exercise Science and Health Promotion
Abstract/Description: Obesity is associated with elevated levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), contributing to systemic insulin resistance. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a vital metabolic and inflammatory regulator, however circulating FGF21 concentrations are elevated in obese individuals. Acute aerobic exercise increases systemic FGF21 in normal-weight individuals, however the effect of acute aerobic exercise on plasma FGF21 response and...
Show moreObesity is associated with elevated levels of the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), contributing to systemic insulin resistance. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a vital metabolic and inflammatory regulator, however circulating FGF21 concentrations are elevated in obese individuals. Acute aerobic exercise increases systemic FGF21 in normal-weight individuals, however the effect of acute aerobic exercise on plasma FGF21 response and the relationships with inflammation (IL-6 and TNF-α), insulin resistance, and energy expenditure in obese individuals is unknown. Following 30 minutes of treadmill running at 75% VO2max, plasma FGF21 response, as indicated by area-under-the-curve “with respect to increase” (AUCi) analyses, was attenuated in 12 obese compared to 12 normalweight subjects. Additionally, FGF21 AUCi positively correlated with glucose AUCi, total relative energy expenditure, and relative VO2max, suggesting that cardiorespiratory fitness levels may predict FGF21 response, contributing to the enhanced regulation of glucose and energy metabolism.
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Date Issued: 2014
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004229, http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00004229
Subject Headings: Fibroblast growth factor., Cell differentiation., Cellular signal transduction., Obesity--Health aspects., Metabolic syndrome--Pathophysiology.
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Assay development for lysyl hydroxylase.
Creator: Patel, Deepak A., Florida Atlantic University, Fields, Gregg B.
Abstract/Description: Hydroxylysine is produced as a posttranslational modification mainly in collagens, the most abundant protein in mammals. Lysyl hydroxylase (LH) is the enzyme that catalyzes the formation of hydroxylysyl residues in collagen by hydroxylation of -X-Lys-Gly- sequences, for which it requires Fe 2+, 2-oxoglutarate, O2 and ascorbate. In order to study the hydroxylation reaction catalysed by LH, we have synthesized 4 different peptides [for example, GFP*GLP*GAKGE (P*=hydroxyproline) and the...
Show moreHydroxylysine is produced as a posttranslational modification mainly in collagens, the most abundant protein in mammals. Lysyl hydroxylase (LH) is the enzyme that catalyzes the formation of hydroxylysyl residues in collagen by hydroxylation of -X-Lys-Gly- sequences, for which it requires Fe 2+, 2-oxoglutarate, O2 and ascorbate. In order to study the hydroxylation reaction catalysed by LH, we have synthesized 4 different peptides [for example, GFP*GLP*GAKGE (P*=hydroxyproline) and the corresponding hydroxylated (hydroxylysine-containing) peptide] using Fmoc solid-phase methodology. Peptides have been characterized by HPLC, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and CD spectroscopy. A new method for efficient separation of lysine- from hydroxylysine-containing peptides by HPLC has been developed in both organic phase (1-anthroylnitrile as derivatizating reagent) and aqueous phase (dansyl chloride as derivatizating reagent). These reagents have been used to derivatize peptides prior to HPLC analysis. The products (di- and tetra-substituted lysine- and hydroxylysine-containing peptides) have been fully separated by HPLC and their structure confirmed by MALDI-TOF MS analysis. Efficient separation of derivatized peptides will allow for the convenient and rapid measurement of LH activity by HPLC methods.
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Date Issued: 2006
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fcla/dt/13384
Subject Headings: Biological transport, Proteins--Metabolism, Peptides--Analysis, Coenzymes, Bioorganic chemistry
Format: Document (PDF)

Title: Synthesis and In Vitro Evaluation of Some Novel Nucleoside analogs and DNA lntercalators as Potential Anticancer or Antiviral Agents.
Creator: Zhao, Yuxiang, Florida Atlantic University, Parkanyi, Cyril, Charles E. Schmidt College of Science, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract/Description: Thiadiazoles can be considered as analogs of pyrimidines because of the well known analogy between a -CH=CH- group in benzenoid hydrocarbons and bivalent sulfur, -S-, in aromatic heterocycles. Therefore, 5-amino-2H-1 ,2,4-thiadiazole-3-one and 5-amino-3H-1 ,3,4-thiadiazole-2-one are the analogs of cytosine. In our first project, the preparation of six thiadiazole nucleoside analogs is reported: 5-diacetylamino-1 ,2,4- thiadiazol-3-one (1), 5-amino-2-(tetrahydrofuran-2-yl)-1 ,2,4-thiadiazol-3...
Show moreThiadiazoles can be considered as analogs of pyrimidines because of the well known analogy between a -CH=CH- group in benzenoid hydrocarbons and bivalent sulfur, -S-, in aromatic heterocycles. Therefore, 5-amino-2H-1 ,2,4-thiadiazole-3-one and 5-amino-3H-1 ,3,4-thiadiazole-2-one are the analogs of cytosine. In our first project, the preparation of six thiadiazole nucleoside analogs is reported: 5-diacetylamino-1 ,2,4- thiadiazol-3-one (1), 5-amino-2-(tetrahydrofuran-2-yl)-1 ,2,4-thiadiazol-3-one (2), 5- amino-3-((2' -hydroxyethoxy)methyl)-1 ,3,4-thiadiazol-2-one (3), 5-amino-3-( 4' -hydroxy- 2' -hydroxyrnethyl-butyl)-1 ,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thione ( 4), (R)-5-am ino-3-(2' ,3' - dihydroxypropyl)-1 ,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thione (5), and (S)-5-amino-3-(2' ,3 ' - dihydroxypropyl )-1 ,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thione (6). (R)-5-amino-3-(2' ,3' -dihydroxypropyl)-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thione (5) and (S)-5-amino-3-(2' ,3' -dihydroxypropyl)-1 ,3,4- thiadiazole-2-thione (6) are stereoisomers. Their racemic mixture 7 was also prepared and tested. The synthesis, characterization, and properties of these new synthesized thiadiazole derivatives are discussed. A dimerization of 5-amino-3H-1 ,3 ,4-thiadiazole-2- thione (18) to produce di-(5-amino-1 ,3,4-thiadiazol-2-yl) disulfide (23) by sodium nitrite with either acetic acid or stannic chloride is also reported. Preliminary results indicate that 3 and 23 possess antimicrobial activity. In the second project, the synthesis of three series of bis-aminochloropyrimidine derivatives with different types of linkers as potential DNA intercalators is described. The first series are aminochloropyrimidines bridged by polyrnethylene chain linkers with various lengths. The second series are bridged by polyether linkers to lower the lipophilicity. The third series are bridged by linkers containing benzene rings to limit the flexibility. The spectral data and other physical properties of the new compounds are discussed. The preliminary screening results indicate that many new synthesized bisintercalators are biologically active. The relationship between bioactivity and structure is discussed as well.
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Date Issued: 2007
PURL: http://purl.flvc.org/fau/fd/FA00000886
Subject Headings: Biopharmaceutics, Antineoplastic agents--Pharmacodynamics, Nucleosides--Metabolism, Pharmaceutical chemistry, Antiviral agents--Synthesis
Format: Document (PDF)

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