Characterization, in vitro cytotoxicity assessment, and in vivo visualization of multimodal, RITC-labeled, silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles for labeling human cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells.

Live imaging is a powerful technique that can be used to characterize the fate and location of stem cells in animal models. Here we investigated the characteristics and in vitro cytotoxicity of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) labeled with silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles incorporating rhodamine B isothiocyanate, MNPs@SiO2(RITC). We also conducted various in vivo-uptake tests with nanoparticle-labeled human MSCs. MNPs@SiO2(RITC) showed photostability against ultraviolet light exposure and were nontoxic to human MSCs, based on the MTT, apoptosis, and cell cycle arrest assays. In addition, MNPs@SiO2(RITC) did not affect the surface phenotype or morphology of human MSCs. We also demonstrated that MNPs@SiO2(RITC) have stable retention properties in MSCs in vitro. Furthermore, using optical and magnetic resonance imaging, we successfully detected a visible signal from labeled human MSCs that were transplanted into NOD.CB17-Prkdc(SCID) (NOD-SCID) mice. These results demonstrate that MNPs@SiO2(RITC) are biocompatible and useful tools for human MSC labeling and bioimaging. FROM THE CLINICAL EDITOR: The characteristics and in vitro cytotoxicity of human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) labeled with silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles incorporating rhodamine B isothiocyanate, RITC were investigated in this study. RITC showed photostability against ultraviolet light exposure and was nontoxic to human MSCs. Using both optical and magnetic resonance imaging, successful detection of signal from labeled human MSCs transplanted into mice is demonstrated.

Injection of Fluoro-Gold into the tibial nerve leads to prolonged but reversible functional deficits in rats.

Tract tracing with neuronal tracers not only represents a straightforward approach to identify axonal projection connection between regions of the nervous system at distance but also provides compelling evidence for axonal regeneration. An ideal neuronal tracer meets certain criteria including high labeling efficacy, minimal neurotoxicity, rapid labeling, suitable stability in vivo, and compatibility to tissue processing for histological/immunohistochemical staining. Although labeling efficacy of commonly used fluorescent tracers has been studied extensively, neurotoxicity and their effect on neural functions remains poorly understood. In the present study, we comprehensively evaluated motor and sensory nerve function 2-24 weeks after injection of retrograde tracer Fluoro-Gold (FG), True Blue (TB) or Fluoro-Ruby (FR) in the tibial nerve in adult Spague-Dawley rats. We found that motor and sensory nerve functions were completely recovered by 24 weeks after tracer exposure, and that FG lead to a more prolonged delay in functional recovery than TB. These findings shed light on the long-term effect of tracers on nerve function and peripheral axonal regeneration, and therefore have implications in selection of appropriate tracers in relevant studies.

Sulforhodamine 101, a widely used astrocyte marker, can induce cortical seizure-like activity at concentrations commonly used.

Sulforhodamine 101 (SR101) is a preferential astrocyte marker widely used in 2-photon microscopy experiments. Here we show, that topical loading of two commonly used SR101 concentrations, 100 µM and 250 µM when incubated for 10 min, can induce seizure-like local field potential (LFP) activity in both anaesthetized and awake mouse sensori-motor cortex. This cortical seizure-like activity develops in less than ten minutes following topical loading, and when applied longer, these neuronal discharges reliably evoke contra-lateral hindlimb muscle contractions. Short duration (<1 min) incubation of 100 µM and 250 µM SR101 or application of lower concentrations 25 µM and 50 µM of SR101, incubated for 30 and 20 min, respectively, did not induce abnormal LFP activity in sensori-motor cortex, but did label astrocytes, and may thus be considered more appropriate concentrations for in vivo astrocyte labeling. In addition to label astrocytes SR101 may, at 100 µM and 250 µM, induce abnormal neuronal activity and interfere with cortical circuit activity. SR101 concentration of 50 µM or lower did not induce abnormal neuronal activity. We advocate that, to label astrocytes with SR101, concentrations no higher than 50 µM should be used for in vivo experiments.

Ca(2+)-dependent and caspase-3-independent apoptosis caused by damage in Golgi apparatus due to 2,4,5,7-tetrabromorhodamine 123 bromide-induced photodynamic effects.

To clarify the role of the Golgi apparatus in photodynamic therapy-induced apoptosis, its signaling pathway was studied after photodynamic treatment of human cervix carcinoma cell line HeLa, in which a photosensitizer, 2,4,5,7-tetrabromorhodamine 123 bromide (TBR), was incorporated into the Golgi apparatus. Laser scanning microscopic analysis of TBR-loaded HeLa cells confirmed that TBR was exclusively located in the Golgi apparatus. HeLa cells incubated with TBR for 1 h were then exposed to visible light using an Xe lamp. Light of wavelength below 670 nm was eliminated with a filter. Morphological observation of nuclei stained with Hoechst 33342 revealed that apoptosis of cells was induced by exposure to light. Electron spin resonance spectrometry showed that light-exposed TBR produced both singlet oxygen (1O2) and superoxide anion (O2-). Apoptosis induction by TBR was inhibited by pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, an O2- scavenger, but not by NaN3, a quencher of 1O2. Furthermore, TBR-induced apoptosis was inhibited by aurintricarboxylic acid and ZnCl2, which are known as inhibitors of deoxyribonuclease (DNase) gamma, and (acetoxymethyl)-1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy)-ethane-N,N,N',N'-tetraacetic acid, a chelator of Ca2+, but not by acetyl Asp-Glu-Val-Asp-aldehyde, an inhibitor of caspase-3. These results suggested that O2- was responsible for TBR-induced apoptosis, and Ca(2+)-dependent and caspase-3-independent nuclease such as DNase gamma played an important role in apoptotic signaling triggered by Golgi dysfunction.

Finger clubbing in match factory workers in Fiji.

This communication reports of two cases of digital clubbing in a factory manufacturing matches in Vitilevu, Fiji Islands. Both these cases were occupationally exposed to chemicals used in the manufacture of matches. They had physical contact with these chemicals including rhodamine B dye. Subjects who worked in the same factory area, including one worker who had FEV1.0 and FVC values below the predicted normal, but who did not handle chemicals showed no evidence of finger clubbing.

Dye-doped organosilicate nanoparticles as cell-preserving labels for photoacoustic signal generation.

Nanoparticle-assisted ultrasound generation by pulsed laser or photoacoustic (PA) techniques has been employed in the study of several tissues both in vivo and in vitro. Among the many applications of this technology, the detection of few cells in vitro is of particular interest. However, the toxicity induced by laser irradiation used for PA signal generation, whether in the absence or the presence of PA enhancers, within single isolated cells has not yet been investigated in detail. Herein, we report our studies of the cellular health of two different nanoparticle-labeled cell lines one hour after being subjected to a single laser pulse in vitro. We selected for this study an Hs936 skin epithelial melanoma cell line, which can be naturally detected photoacoustically, as well as a T47D human mammary breast gland epithelial cell line which has proven difficult to detect photoacoustically due to the absence of natural melanin. We have evaluated the amplitude of the PA signal derived from these two cell types, unlabeled and labeled with nanoparticles of two types (gold nanoparticles, AuNPs, or rhodamine 6G-doped organosilicate nanoparticles, R6G-NPOs), and assessed their health one hour subsequent to laser treatment. The current work corroborates previous findings that, for unlabeled cells, Hs936 produces a detectable PA signal whereas the T47D line does not. Cells labeled with AuNPs or R6G-NPOs produced a detectable PA signal of similar amplitude for the two cell lines. A significant number of Hs936 cells (both unlabeled cells and those labeled with AuNPs) exhibited cell nuclei alterations, as revealed by DAPI staining conducted an hour after photo treatment. Remarkably, the T47D cells suffered damage only when labeled with AuNPs. A significant finding, the R6G-NPOs proved capable of non-destructive PA signal generation in both cell types. Our findings advocate a transformational path forward for the use of dye-doped silicate nanoparticles in cell-compatible PA studies permitting the handling and culturing of cells subsequent to their photoacoustic analysis.

Specific in vivo staining of astrocytes in the whole brain after intravenous injection of sulforhodamine dyes.

Fluorescent staining of astrocytes without damaging or interfering with normal brain functions is essential for intravital microscopy studies. Current methods involved either transgenic mice or local intracerebral injection of sulforhodamine 101. Transgenic rat models rarely exist, and in mice, a backcross with GFAP transgenic mice may be difficult. Local injections of fluorescent dyes are invasive. Here, we propose a non-invasive, specific and ubiquitous method to stain astrocytes in vivo. This method is based on iv injection of sulforhodamine dyes and is applicable on rats and mice from postnatal age to adulthood. The astrocytes staining obtained after iv injection was maintained for nearly half a day and showed no adverse reaction on astrocytic calcium signals or electroencephalographic recordings in vivo. The high contrast of the staining facilitates the image processing and allows to quantify 3D morphological parameters of the astrocytes and to characterize their network. Our method may become a reference for in vivo staining of the whole astrocytes population in animal models of neurological disorders.

Acute exposure to rhodamine B.

Rhodamine B is a red colored dye that is used in cosmetic products. We report a case of 17 patients who were exposed to aerosolized Rhodamine B inside a maintenance shop. The mean duration of exposure was 26 minutes (range 2-65). Sixteen of the patients (94%) complained of acute symptoms including: burning of the eyes (82%), excessive tearing (47%), nasal burning (41%), nasal itching (35%), chest pain/tightness (35%), rhinorhea (29%), cough (29%), dyspnea (29%), burning of the throat (24%), burning/pruritic skin (24%), chest burning (12%), headache (6%), and nausea (6%). All of the patients had resolution of their symptoms within 24 hours (less than 4 hours in 63%). Acute exposure to Rhodamine B resulted in transient mucous membrane and skin irritation without evidence of serious sequellae.

Contact depigmentation caused by an azo dye in alta.

Alta, a scarlet-red solution used by some Indian women as a cosmetic to colour their feet, was found to be associated with depigmentation at the site of application. Chromatographic and spectroscopic analysis of 3 brands of alta confirmed the presence of 2 dyes: Crocein Scarlet MOO (CSM) (brilliant crocein) and rhodamine B (tetraethyl rhodamine). Patch testing produced depigmentation at the site of application of alta, CSM and para-phenylenediamine (PPD). Although PPD has been reported to produce leukoderma, azo dyes have not previously been reported as depigmenting agents.

Dyes for caries detection: influence on composite and compomer microleakage.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of caries-detecting dyes on the microleakage of adhesive materials. Sixty cubic class V cavities were prepared on buccal and lingual surfaces of 30 human third molars. Coronal margins were located in enamel and gingival margins in cementum. The teeth were randomly divided into six groups of ten restorations each. Cavities were restored with an adhesive system (Single Bond, 3M ESPE, St. Paul, Minn., USA), a compomer (F2000, 3M ESPE), or a composite resin (Z100, 3M ESPE) according to the manufacturer's directions. Acid red dye (Seek, Ultradent, South Jordan, Ut., USA) and basic fuchsin dye (Vide Cárie, Inodon, Porto Alegre, Brazil) were tested. Control groups were prepared without the use of dyes. After 7 days of storage in distilled water, the restorations were polished and the teeth were subjected to thermal cycling followed by immersion in 2% methylene blue. The teeth were sectioned, and microleakage scores were evaluated under magnification (40x). Data were submitted to statistical analysis using the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis test. A statistically significant difference ( P<0.05) in microleakage was found between the materials in cementum (Z100>F2000) but not in enamel. Control and experimental groups using dyes showed similar results. It was concluded that dyes for caries detection did not increase microleakage of the adhesive materials tested.

Rhodamine B inhibition of glycosaminoglycan production by cultured human lip fibroblasts.

Rhodamine B (Rh B) is a dye which is used in cosmetics such as lipsticks. We investigated the effect of the dye on the metabolism of [3H]glucosamine-labeled glycosaminoglycans ([3H]-GAG) in confluent cultures of human lip fibroblast KD cells. It was found that Rh B at 10 micrograms/ml and above significantly decreased the accumulation of [3H]-GAG in both the cell layer and the medium after a 24-hr culture. This Rh B (50 micrograms/ml) effect was recognized in the cell layer and the medium after 8 and 24 hr, respectively, and longer. The Rh B at the 25 micrograms/ml-induced decrease in the [3H]-GAG accumulation was reversible in both the cell layer and the medium. On the other hand, the release of [3H]-GAG from the cell layer was unaffected by Rh B. A characterization of [3H]-GAG revealed that all components of the GAG including hyaluronic acid, heparan sulfate, chondroitin 4- and/or 6-sulfate, and dermatan sulfate were significantly decreased by 50 micrograms/ml Rh B in both the cell layer and the medium. Rh B significantly decreased the accumulation of [3H]-GAG in the presence of either 10 microM cycloheximide or 1 mM p-nitrophenyl-beta-D-xyloside, suggesting that Rh B inhibited the sugar chain formation rather than core protein synthesis. Although the number of confluent KD cells was significantly decreased by Rh B at 10 micrograms/ml and above, this Rh B effect was much weaker than that on the [3H]-GAG accumulation. The release of lactate dehydrogenase from the cell layer was significantly increased by 100 micrograms/ml Rh B but not by the dye at 75 micrograms/ml and below. From these results, it was suggested that Rh B decreases the GAG content of human lip fibroblasts through a functional suppression of polysaccharide chain formation in the process of the GAG production.

Ex vivo photodynamic purging in chronic myelogenous leukaemia and other neoplasias with rhodamine derivatives.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), a cancer treatment already used early in this century, has distinctive advantages over conventional chemotherapy, namely its often observed preferential accumulation in cancer cells and its low intrinsic toxicity. Aggressive therapeutic modalities using high doses of chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy are now commonplace treatments for leukaemia, lymphoma and various non-haematologic malignancies. These intensive approaches have often been used in association with haematopoietic-progenitor-cell support and have induced major responses and remissions in patients with relapsed and refractory diseases, ultimately contributing to improve the disease-free survival of patients with high risk. This has encouraged Theratechnologies, a Montreal-based pharmaceutical company, to develop photodynamic ex vivo purging procedures, including the development of new photosensitizers and irradiation devices for the safe eradication of neoplastic cells from autologous grafts. Our first specific objective, therefore, was to design, synthesize, purify and test photoactive rhodamine derivatives. We have also selected a gas and phosphorus coating characteristic of an efficient scanning fluorescent source for extra-corporeal PDT using rhodamine derivatives. 4,5-Dibromorhodamine 123 (TH9402) was selected because of its photophysical properties, low toxicity and stability. TH9402 photodynamic-cell-therapy process conditions recognized as safe for normal human haematopoietic stem cells and progenitors demonstrated the efficacy of the purging procedure on various leukaemias (including chronic-myelogenous-leukaemia as well as non-Hodgkin-leukaemias and metastatic-breast-cancer cell lines.