Absence of functional and structural homology of natural and recombinant human leukocyte interferon (IFN-α) with human α-ACTH and β-endorphin

A comparison of the amino acid sequence of one human recombinant IFN-α (IFLrA) with either human β-endorphin or ACTH reveals only a minimal and insignificant degree of homology. Also, synthetic ACTH, β-endorphin and β-endorphin-(1–15) have no antiviral protective effects on human fibroblasts and cannot inhibit the neutralization of the antiviral effects of natural IFN-α by an antiserum directed against the interferon. Anti ACTH and Anti β-endorphin do not neutralize the antiviral effects of IFLrA, and radioimmunoassays of partially purified natural IFN-α and pure IFLrA do not reveal any evidence of α-MSH or β-endorphin-like material in the interferons. These results demonstrate an absence of functional and structural homology of natural and recombinant IFN-α with ACTH and β-endorphin.     

Unaltered metabolism of taurolithocholic acid with changes in composition of rat intestinal microflora

Changes in composition of both total aerobes and anaerobes of rat intestinal microflora do not appear to affect the metabolism of taurolithocholic acid.     

Molecular approaches to problems in biogeochemical cycling

Summary By using molecular probe techniques in combination with activity and expression measurements, it is possible to estimate bacterial populations in nature. This information can be expooited to study a number of important environmental problems. For instance, it will be possible to study ecosystem perturbation and microbial competition, by altering an ecosystem or a laboratory model of an ecosystem, and assessing corresponding changes in key activities and populations. In addition, regulation of activities in the laboratory can be compared to the response of activities and populations in situ, to develop an understanding of the key parameters that control these processes in nature. These types of approaches are important steps for determining the role of microorganisms in geochemical cycling, in both specific habitats and on a global basis.