DEPT OF PHYSIOLOGY

Researcher : Ballard HJ

Project Title:

Interactions between vasoconstrictor and vasodilator mechanisms in the skeletal muscle vascular response to systemic hypoxia

Investigator(s):

Ballard HJ

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

02/2004

 

Abstract:

To investigate the roles of the baroreflex, the central chemoreflex and adaptation of the peripheral chemoreflex in the variation of sympathetic outflow to the muscle during hypoxia, and the mechanism by which sympathetic nerve activation stimulates the formation of interstitial vasodilator metabolites; to investigate the roles of A1 and A2 adenosine receptors in the vascular response to sustained hypoxia, and determine whether the receptors are located on endothelium or vascular smooth muscle; to investigate the mechanisms of the interactions between the release and actions of the vasodilator substances in hypoxia; to investigate the properties and control of the specific isoenzyme of cytosolic 5' -nucleotidase isolated from skeletal muscle vascular endothelial cells.

 

Project Title:

Sources and actions of adenosine in exercise vasodilation of rat red or white muscle

Investigator(s):

Ballard HJ

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To determine the venous and interstitial concentrations of adenosine in red and white muscles, and evaluate the contribution of A1 and A2 receptors to the vasodilation using appropriate blockers.

 

Project Title:

Sources and mechanisms of release of adenosine in exercise vasodilation of red skeletal muscle

Investigator(s):

Ballard HJ

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2005

Completion Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

The role of lactic acid in the regulation of ATP efflux from skeletal muscle.

Investigator(s):

Ballard HJ

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

Skeletal muscle blood flow increases by as much as 2000% during muscle contractions. It is known that the interstitial ATP concentration increases during muscle contractions, and that this ATP is converted extracellularly to adenosine, accounting for a large part of the active hyperaemia. However, it is not known how the muscle contractions give rise to the increase in interstitial ATP. Certainly ATP can not be categorised as a “metabolic waste product”: thus, this mechanism of blood flow regulation does not fit into our existing concept for metabolic autoregulation of blood flow. Previous studies have shown that either muscle contractions (which give rise to the formation of endogenous lactic acid), or the infusion of exogenous lactic acid, cause a decrease in the muscle pH and increase both the interstitial and venous adenosine: there was a strong correlation between the depression of muscle pH and the appearance of adenosine in the venous blood, with points from both the acid infusion experiments and the muscle contraction experiments falling on a single straight line. Blockade of the cellular uptake of infused lactic acid with a-cyano-4-hydroxycinnamic acid abolished the increase in adenosine output from the muscle. Taken together, these data suggest that it is the increase in intracellular lactic acid during muscle contractions that stimulates the efflux of ATP from the muscle cells, which in turn leads to the formation of adenosine extracellularly. We have performed a small number of pilot experiments, which indicated that arterial infusion of exogenous lactic acid did, indeed, increase the interstitial ATP concentration of muscle. However, the mechanism by which lactic acid stimulates the ATP efflux, and the route by which ATP leaves the cell, are unknown, although, since ATP is a charged molecule, it is highly likely that a specific carrier is involved. The predominant mechanism of ATP transport across skeletal muscle cell membranes has not been investigated previously. A number of transporters have been identified on the surface membranes of other cell types which permit the efflux of ATP from those cells: these include members of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) family of proteins, such as the multidrug resistance-1 protein, the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, and P-glycoprotein, as well as other electrodiffusional pathways, such as the cAMP-stimulated anion-selective channel. Whether any of these transporters are involved in ATP efflux from skeletal muscle cells remains to be investigated. Furthermore, the mitochondrial ATP transporter or the nucleoside transporter may play a role in ATP efflux, which should also be investigated. The objectives of this study, therefore, are to determine: 1. the influence of infused lactic acid on the skeletal muscle interstitial ATP concentration 2. whether lactic acid acts at an intra- or extracellular site to stimulate ATP efflux 3. whether ATP leaves the skeletal muscle cell through one of the known ATP transporter proteins

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Liu J., Kam W.L., Borchert G.H., Kravtsov G.M., Ballard H.J. and Wong T.M., Further study on the role of heat shock protein 70 on Ca2+ homeostasis in rat ventricular myocytes subjected to ischemic insults, Am J Physiol Cell Physiol . 2006, 290: C583-C591.

 

Tu J. and Ballard H.J., Increase in interstitial ATP levels of rat soleus muscle during lactic acid infusion., Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, (in press).

 

Researcher : Borchert GH

List of Research Outputs

 

Liu J., Kam W.L., Borchert G.H., Kravtsov G.M., Ballard H.J. and Wong T.M., Further study on the role of heat shock protein 70 on Ca2+ homeostasis in rat ventricular myocytes subjected to ischemic insults, Am J Physiol Cell Physiol . 2006, 290: C583-C591.

 

Researcher : Bourreau JP

Project Title:

Role of cyclooxygenase in the ventricular effects of adrenomedullin: does prostacyclin contribute towards the cardiodepression in the late hypodynamic phase of septic shock?

Investigator(s):

Bourreau JP

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To measure the levels of PGI2 by quantifying its stable hydrolysis product, 6-keto PGF1[alpha] by EIA after stimulation with ADM and at various time-points corresponding to the biphasic inotropic effects of ADM, and to mesure the PGI2 levels in our animal model of terminal septic shock; to observe the signal transduction pathway involved in the ventricular effects of ADM with respect to PGI2.

 

Project Title:

Endothelim-dependent hyperpolarization and relaxation of vascular smooth muscle: influence of the mode of excitation-coupling of vasoconstrictors

Investigator(s):

Bourreau JP

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

02/2005

 

Abstract:

To test the hypothesis that expression of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization-induced relaxation in a given vascular bed depends on the vasoconstrictor's coupling mode. We aim in the project at establishing controlled experimental conditions that will optimise the expression of endothelium-dependent hyperpolarization-induced relaxation and thus optimize the investigation of its mechanism(s).

 

Project Title:

Switch in G-protein coupling. Role of intracellular cAMP

Investigator(s):

Bourreau JP

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

In our animal model of septic shock, we were able to identify the overproduction of the vasoactive peptide adrenomedullin as a key factor responsible for depression of ventricular function during the hypodynamic phase of shock (Am.J.Physiol., Heart Circ.Physiol. 286: H1034-H1042, 2004).Physiologically, this peptide is a positive inotropic substance that increases the force of contraction via a beta adrenergic-like effect; i.e., by raising the intracellular cAMP concentration. This triggers PKA-dependent phosphorylation of key protein targets (L-type calcium channels, phospholamban, TnC…), which results in positive inotropy and lusitropy.It was thus difficult to understand why a substance that, as often claimed in the litterature, should function to overcome situations where cardiac function is compromised (such as septic shock), failed to do so but rather contributed significantly to the progression of ventricular depression.We have also gathered data showing that the negative inotropic effect of adrenomedullin develops slowly and is dependent on the concomittent expression of the inducible form of cyclooxygenase, COX2 (Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol. 2004 Mar;286(3):H1034-42). Moreover, our recent findings (under revision, Am J.Physiol.) show clearly that this negative inotropic effect of adrenomedullin in the presence of COX 2 induction is pertussis toxin-sensitive, suggesting a switch in G-protein coupling from Gs to Gi. This negative inotropic effect of adrenomedullin is also sensitive to inhibition of PKA, which suggests that PKA-dependent phosphorylation of specific target(s) is responsible for the switch, implicating a role for cytosolic cAMP in this phenomenon.Therefore, the model we propose assumes that it is an uncontrolled increase in cAMP, due to ADM and prostaglandins (most probably prostacyclin) stimulation that initiate a sequence of events leading to a switch in G-protein coupling between adrenomedullin receptor and cellular response. This cAMP-dependent switch would thus be the trigger for the depressant effect of adrenomedullin on the ventricule during septic shock.The goal of this project is to test this hypothesis by quantifying cAMP in rat ventricular myocytes in conditions were adrenomedullin has a positive and a negative inotropic effect, and to confirm that pharmacological manipulations of these myocytes that inhibit the effects of adrenomedullin ultimately result in a decrease production of cAMP.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Mittra S. and Bourreau J.P., Gs And Gi Coupling Of Adrenomedullin In Adult Rat Ventricular Myocytes, American Journal of Physiology (Heart and Circulatory Physiology). 2006, 290: H1842-H1847.

 

Mittra S. and Bourreau J.P., The Gs and Gi coupling of adrenomedullin in adult rat ventricular myocytes, American Journal of Physiology (Heart and Circulatory Physiology). 2005, DOI, 10.1152/ajpheart.00388.2005.

 

Researcher : Bruce IC

Project Title:

Biomedical writing for postgraduate students whose mother tongue is Chinese: a novel course based on interactive multimedia

Investigator(s):

Bruce IC, Poon P.W.F., Chan R.Y.P., Xia Q.

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Teaching Development Grants

Start Date:

02/1999

 

Abstract:

Two tasks need to be accomplished. Firstly, how best to teach and learn the art and craft of creating a manuscript suitable for submission to an international journal. Secondly, how to develop a teaching tool that is sensitive to the specific difficulties encountered by individuals whose usual channels of communication are Chinese. The unifying strategy is to create and interactive web site that can be used, in combination with face-to-face teaching, to develop the desired writing skills and attitudes.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Yang Y., Xie Y., Chai H., Fan M., Liu S., Liu H., Bruce I.C. and Wu W., Microarray alalysis of gene expression patterns in adult spinal motoneurons after different types of axonal injuries, Brain Research. 2006, 1075: 1-12.

 

Researcher : Cao C

List of Research Outputs

 

Cao C., Chen M. and Wong T.M., The K(Ca) channel as a trigger for the cardioprotection induced by kappa-opioid receptor stimulation – its relationship with protein kinase C, Br J Pharmacol. 2005, 145(7): 984-991.

 

Xiao G., Zhou J., Wang G., Cao C., Li G.R. and Wong T.M., In vitro electrophysiologic effects of morphine in rabbit ventricular myocytes, Anesthesiology. 2005, 103: 280-286.

 

Researcher : Chan YS

Project Title:

Formation of gravity-related spatial map in postnatal rats

Investigator(s):

Chan YS, Yung KKL

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2002

Completion Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

A fundamental question in otolith system development is how gravity-related spatial information of the adult pattern emerges. It is hypotheszed in the study that the maturation in coding of specific head orientations may not be in phase with each other, i.e. there is a critical maturation period before which recognition of a specific head orientation cannot operate. The project attempts to use linear acceleration along horizontal and vertical directions, selected to activate specific subset(s) of receptors on the utricular and saccular maculae respectively.

 

Project Title:

Sensitive period for topographic spatial representation in the rat otolith system

Investigator(s):

Chan YS, Yung KKL

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To determine whether the functional organization of a gravity-related spatial reference in the postnatal inferior olive is perturbed by perinatal blockade of the vestibular nucleus; to determine whether the spatial coding capacity of adult neurons are perturbed well after an early postnatal blockade becomes ineffective; to examine if the pharmacological manipulations applied later in the postnatal period have any effect in the mature brain.

 

Project Title:

The role of central glial cells in the pathogenesis of Parkinson's Disease

Investigator(s):

Chan YS

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

To employ immuno-hybridization histochemical methods to map the spatiotemporal distribution of different activated glial cells during the development of PD as induced by systemic administration of a neurotoxicant, 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP).

 

Project Title:

Sensitive period for topographic spatial representation in the rat otolith system

Investigator(s):

Chan YS, Yung KKL

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects

Start Date:

11/2003

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Development of commissural inhibition in the vestibular system

Investigator(s):

Chan YS

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Development of commissural inhibition in the vestibular system

Investigator(s):

Chan YS, Yung KKL, Yung WH

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

To map the postnatal maturation time and the location of canal-related neurons in the vestibulo-olivary pathway; to document the location and maturation profile of inhibitory neuronal correlates in the commissural otolith pathway; to examine the developmental change of inhibitory postsynaptic current (IPSC) at central GABAergic synapses in brainstem slices containing the vestibular nucleus.

 

Project Title:

Development of glutamate transmission and frequency responsiveness in central vestibular neurons

Investigator(s):

Chan YS

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects

Start Date:

12/2005

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Development of glutamate transmission and frequency responsiveness in central vestibular neurons

Investigator(s):

Chan YS, Yung WH, Yung KKL

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2005

 

Abstract:

To examine the postnatal change of excitatory postsynaptic current at glutamate synapses in the vestibular nucleus; to investigate the frequency responsiveness of neuronal subgroups within the medial vestibular nucleus.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chan W.S., Chen L.W., Chan Y.S. and Yung K.K.L., Neuroprotective effects of neurokinin receptor one agonist septide in dopaminergic neurons in primary culture, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 211.7.

 

Chan Y.S., Determinants of neural circuit formation for spatial recognition, Abstract Book of International Science Council Congress 2005. 219-220.

 

Chan Y.S., Neural circuit formation towards spatial recognition, Emirates Medical Journal. 2005, 23: 40-41.

 

Chen K., Wang J.J., Yung W.H., Chan Y.S. and Chow B.K.C., Excitatory effect of histamine on neuronal activity of rat globus pallidus by activation of H2 receptors in vitro, Neuroscience Research . 2005, 53: 288-297.

 

Chen L.W., Tse Y.C., Li C., Guan Z.L., Lai C.H., Yung K.K.L., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Differential expression of NMDA and AMPA/KA receptor subunits in the inferior olive of postnatal rats. , Brain Research. 2006, 1067(1): 103-114.

 

Chen L.W., Yung K.K.L. and Chan Y.S., Reactive astrocytes as potential manipulation targets in novel cell replacement therapy of Parkinson’s disease, Current Drug Targets. 2005, 6(7): 821-833.

 

Chu J.Y.S., Lee T.O., Chung S.C.K., Lai C.H., Chan Y.S., Yung W.H. and Chow B.K.C., Secretin in the hypothalamo-pituitary-renal system: Implication of secretin in regulating water homeostasis, Proceedings of the 88th Annual Meeting of the Endocrinology Society. 2006, OR48-6.

 

Lai C.H., Zhang Y.K. and Chan Y.S., Spatial coding in peripheral and central otolith neurons of young and adult rats, Neuroscience Bulletin. 2005, 21: 444.

 

Lai S.K., Yung W.H. and Chan Y.S., Developmental profile of ionotropic glutamate receptors in spinal vestibular neurons of rats, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 601.12.

 

Lai S.K., Yung W.H. and Chan Y.S., Ionotropic glutamate receptors in spinal vestibular neurons of developing rats., Proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of Japan Neuroscience Society. 2005, P1–82.

 

Lai S.K., Lai C.H., Yung K.K., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Maturation of otolith-related brainstem neurons in the detection of vertical linear acceleration in rats. , Eur J Neurosci.. 2006, 23(9): 2431-46.

 

Lau J.W.K., Kwok J.C.F., Ng K.Y., Chan Y.S. and Shum D.K.Y., Developing vestibular commissural projections display differential patterns with chondroitinase treatment of the hindbrain, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 481.8.

 

Lau J.W.K., Kwok J.C.F., Ng K.Y., Chan Y.S. and Shum D.K.Y., Developing vestibular neurons display altered commissural projections with depletion of chondroitin sulfates of the hindbrain matrix, Proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of Japan Neuroscience Society. 2005, P3–37.

 

Lau J.W.K., Yung W.H., Chan Y.S. and Yung K.K.L., Developmental assembly of GABA receptors in the rat substantia nigra, In: Bolam JP, Ingham CA, Magill PJ, The Basal Ganglia VIII. New York, Springer, 2005, 229-240.

 

Lee T.M.C., Zhang J.X., Chan C.H., Yuen S.L., Chu L.W., Cheung R.T.F., Chan Y.S., Fox P.T. and Gao J.H., Age-related differences in response regulation as revealed by functional MRI, Brain Research. 2006, 1076(1): 171-176.

 

Li C., Zhang Y.K., Guan Z.L., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Vestibular afferent innervation in the vestibular efferent nucleus of rats. , Neurosci Lett.. 2005, 385(1): 36-40.

 

Liu J., Chau C.H., Liu H., Jang B.R., Li X., Chan Y.S. and Shum D.K.Y., Upregulation of chondroitin 6-sulphotransferase-1 facilitates Schwann cell migration during axonal growth. , J Cell Sci.. 2006, 119(Pt 6): 933-42.

 

Lui P.W., Yeung C.W., Yung W.H., Shi Y., Chen L.W., Chan Y.S. and Yung K.K.L., Ablation of gene expression of N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor one by antisense oligonucleotides in striatal neurons in culture, NeuroSignals. 2006, 14(6): 303-316.

 

Tse Y.C., Lai S.K., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Coding of gravity-related 3-D spatial orientations in brainstem nuclei of adult rats, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 392.11.

 

Tse Y.C., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Orientation-specific maturation time and frequency responsiveness of utricle-related central vestibular neurons in rats, Proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of Japan Neuroscience Society. 2005, P3–96.

 

Tse Y.C., Li C., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Postnatal coding of gravity-related horizontal orientations in neurons within the rat vestibule-olivary pathway, Neuroscience Bulletin. 2005, 21: 446-447.

 

Wong E.Y.M., Chan Y.S., Wu D.K., Cheah K.S.E. and Sham M.H., Ectopic expression of Hoxb3 in mouse hindbrain causes abnormal ear development, 15th International Society of Developmental Biologist Congress 2005, Sydney Australia 3-7 September . 2005.

 

Wong E.Y.M., Chan Y.S., Wu D.K. and Cheah K.S.E., Ectopic expression of Hoxb3 in the second branchial arch leads to abnormal craniofacial development., Mechanisms of Development . 2005, 122 (Supp 1): S88.

 

Yiu C.N.S., Chan Y.S. and Lai C.H., Developmental expression of c-fos in canal-related brainstem neurons of rats following horizontal angular acceleration, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 392.12.

 

Yung W.H., Chan Y.S., Chow B.K.C. and Wang J.J., The role of secretin in the cerebellum, The Cerebellum. 2006, 5: 43-48.

 

Zhang F.X., Lai C.H., Tse Y.C., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Expression of Trk receptors in otolith-related neurons in the vestibular nucleus of rats., Brain Research. 2005, 1062(1-2): 92-100.

 

Zhang F.X., Lai C.H., Li J.L., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Tyrosine kinase receptor immunoreactivity in trigeminal mesencephalic and motor neurons following transection of masseteric nerve of the rat. , Neuroscience. 2006, 139(3): 921-30.

 

Zhang Z., Fujimoto K., Chan Y.S. and He J., Corticofugal projection inhibits the auditory thalamus through the thalamic reticular nucleus, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 164.24.

 

Zhu J.N., Yung W.H., Chow B.K.C., Chan Y.S. and Wang J.J., The cerebellar-hypothalamic circuits: Potential pathways underlying cerebellar involvement in somatic-visceral integration, Brain Research Reviews. 2006, 52: 93-106.

 

Researcher : Chen M

List of Research Outputs

 

Cao C., Chen M. and Wong T.M., The K(Ca) channel as a trigger for the cardioprotection induced by kappa-opioid receptor stimulation – its relationship with protein kinase C, Br J Pharmacol. 2005, 145(7): 984-991.

 

Researcher : Cheng AS

List of Research Outputs

 

Tam C.W., Cheng A.S., Lam A.C.W., Yik S.Y., Yao K.M. and Shiu S.Y.W., Prostate Cancer Growth Modulation By sPDZD2, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, Faculty of Medicine, HKU, December 3, 2005 . 2005, 1.18.

 

Researcher : Chung SSM

Project Title:

Osmoregulation in lens

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM

Department:

Institute of Molecular Biology

Source(s) of Funding:

Outstanding RGC Projects

Start Date:

09/1998

 

Abstract:

It is imperative to have a better understanding of the mechanisms leading to various cataracts such that preventive measures can be developed. Since maintaining the ionic strength and ionic composition in the lens is essential for the transparency of the lens, we plan to study the mechanism of osmoregulation in this organ. Transgenic mice that over-express aldose reductase and sodium dependent myoinositol transporter in their lenses will be used to increase the lens' level of sorbitol and myoinositol, respectively. We will determine if high level of these osmolytes causes cataract development, and see when the level of one osmolyte is high, will the lens compensate by reducing the level of other osmolytes. We will also determine whether high intracellular osmotic pressure affects the regulation of expression of genes that control the level of osmolytes such as aldose reductase, sodium dependent myoinositol transporter, and taurine transporter.

 

Project Title:

Effects of early postnatal feeding on fatty acid metabolism

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM, Sheng HP

Department:

Institute of Molecular Biology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

11/2002

 

Abstract:

Both epidemiological studies and animal studies have shown that prenatal and early postnatal nutrition not only affects infant growth and development, it also predetermines future metabolism, performance adn morbidity. This study addresses the problems of nutritional environment during the sucking period on lipid metabolism and later-life obesity.

 

Project Title:

Polyol pathway in diabetic dyslipidemia

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM

Department:

Institute of Molecular Biology

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

01/2003

 

Abstract:

To determine if AR null mutation reduces plasma TG levels in diabetic mice; to determine if ARI reduces plasma TG in diabetic mice; to determine if AR null mutation or ARI nor ARI normalizes LDL and HDL leviabetic mice.

 

Project Title:

Mechanism of Nogo-A inhibition of axonal regeneration

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM, Chung SK, Ju G.

Department:

Institute of Molecular Biology

Source(s) of Funding:

NSFC/RGC Joint Research Scheme

Start Date:

01/2003

 

Abstract:

To develop Nogo gene knockout mice to determine the role of this gene in the inhibition of axonal regeneration and its physiological functions; to develop transgenic mice that overexpress Nogo-A in their Schwann cells to determine if that would make their PNS non-permissive for axonal regeneraton; to develop transgenic mice that overexpress mutant Nogo-A with the Nogo-66 or aa623-640 region deleted to determine which domain is responsible for the inhibitory effect of Nogo-A.

 

Project Title:

The polyol pathway as a thrifty pathway promoting energy storage

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2003

 

Abstract:

To determine the in vivo conversion of glucose to fatty acids and triglycerides in normal mice and mice deficient in AR; to determine if AR deficiency affects the activities of lipogenic/adipogenic transcriptional factors including ADD1/SREBP-1 and CHOP-C/EBP-[alpha], anti-obesity transcriptional factor FOXC2, and enzymes fatty acid synthase (FAS) and stearoyl CoA desaturase (SCD); to assess whether administration of inhibitors of aldose reductase (ARI) will affect obesity and improve glucose tolerance in the agouti yellow mice; to determine whether the effects of aldose reductase deficiency on agouti-induced lipogenesis and obesity can be duplicated in diet-induced obesity models.

 

Project Title:

The polyol pathway as a thrifty pathway promoting energy storage

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects

Start Date:

09/2003

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Aldose reductase in diabetic cataract

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM

Department:

Institute of Molecular Biology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

10/2004

 

Abstract:

To determine if the antioxidant can prevent AR-induced slow-developing cataract; to determine the osmolyte content and oxidative status of the slow-developing cataract; to compare the morphological changes in the acute diabetic cataract and the slow developing cataract; to determine if there is apoptosis in the epithelial cells of the precataractous lenses.

 

Project Title:

Aldose reductase in diabetic cataract

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM

Department:

Institute of Molecular Biology

Source(s) of Funding:

Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

The role of OREBP in renal osmoprotection and its contribution to chronic cyclosporine A nephrotoxicity

Investigator(s):

Chung SSM

Department:

Institute of Molecular Biology

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2005

Completion Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Chau J.F.L., Lee M.K., Law W.S., Chung S.K. and Chung S.S.M., Sodium/myo-inositol cotransporter-1 is essential for the development and function of the peripheral nerves, FASEB Journal. 2005, 19(13): 1887-1906.

 

Chen A.Y.S., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Long-term non-invasive follow-up of diabetes-induced cutaneous nerve fiber loss and hypoalgesia in live Thy1-YFP transgenic mice, Diabetes. 2005, 54(11): 3112-8.

 

Chen A.Y.S., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Noninvasive monitoring of diabetes-induced cutaneous nerve fiber loss and hypoalgesia in thy1YFP transgenic mice, Diabetes. 2005, 54: 3112-3118.

 

Cheung A.K.H., Fung K.L., Lo A.C.Y., Lam T.L., So K.F., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Aldose reductase deficiency prevents diabetes-induced blood retinal barrier breakdown, apoptosis and glial reactivation in the retina of db/db mice, Diabetes. 2005, 54(11): 3119-25.

 

Cheung A.K.H., Lo A.C.Y., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Aldose reductase-deficient mice were protected from the neuro-retinal injury after carotid artery transient ischemia, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, December 3, 2005.

 

Cheung K.H.A., Lo A.C.Y., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Aldose reductase-deficient mice were protected from the neuro-retinal injury after carotid artery transient ischemia, Experimental Biology 2006, The Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, San Francisco, California, April 1-5, 2006.. 2006.

 

Cheung S.F., Leung W.C., Cheung A.K.H., Lam K.S.L., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Morphological and biochemical study of retina in transgenic miceoverexpressing endothelin-1 in endothelial cells iduced by carotid arterytransient ischemia, The 9th Annual Scientific Meeting of Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, December 3-4, 2005.. 2005.

 

Cheung S.F., Leung W.C., Cheung A.K.H., Lam K.S.L., So K.F., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Morphological and biochemical study of retina transgenic mice overexpressing endothelin-1 in endothelial cells induced by carotid artery transient ischemia, The 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, December 3, 2005.

 

Fung K.L., Yan H., Ching Y.P., Ng I.O.L., Chung S.S.M., Sun H. and Ko B.C.B., Homodimerization of the deleted in liver cancer 2 (DLC2) is not mediated by the SAM domain, FEBS-IUBMB Conference, July 2005.

 

Ko C.B., Tong H.Y. and Chung S.S.M., Identification of a novel nuclear export sequence of OREBP / TonEBP / NFAT5 that control cytoplasmic localization , 45th Annual Meeting of the American Society for Cell Biology, The Moscone Centre, San Fancisco, U.S.A., Dec 10-14, 2005.

 

Ko C.B., Tong H.Y., Guo J. and Chung S.S.M., Identification of novel nuclear export domains of transcription factor OREBP / TonEBP / NAFT5 , Annual Meeting of Experimental Biology 2006, San Francisco, CA, U.S.A., Apri. 1-5, 2006.

 

Li G.R., Deng X., Sun H., Chung S.S.M., Tse H.F. and Lau C.P., Ion channels in mesenchymal stem cells from rat bone marrow. , Stem Cells. 2006, 24: 1519-1528.

 

Mak M.C., Lo A.C.Y., Chiu J., He Q.Y., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Neuronal and astrocytic differentiation are affected in the endothelin-1 knockout mice, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, December 3, 2005.

 

Tsang M.C.S., Lo A.C.Y., Chan T.S.K., Chung S.S.M. and Chung S.K., Expression of a neuropeptide, endothelin-1, in the pons and medulla of prenatal and perinatal mouse brains, International Journal of Neuroscience. 2005, 115(11): 1485-501.

 

Researcher : Fung ML

Project Title:

Molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying anatomical and physiological adaption of the carotid body in chronic hypoxia: role of HIF-1 and its target genes

Investigator(s):

Fung ML, Tipoe GL, Fung PCW

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2002

Completion Date:

08/2005

 

Abstract:

This project is an experimental study to examine the hypothesis that HIF-1 plays a paramount role in the transcriptional regulation of the structural and physiological adaptation of the carotid body in chronic hypoxia. In particular, the team will go into the increased expression and activities of HIF-1 and the activation of expression of HIF-1 target genes for encoding proteins, such as endothelin-1, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), VEGF receptors and inducible nitric oxide synthase in the rat carotid body during chronic hypoxia.

 

Project Title:

Expression and function af AT4 receptors in the carotid body in hypoxia

Investigator(s):

Fung ML

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

03/2005

Completion Date:

02/2006

 

Abstract:

The long-term objective of this project is to delineate 1) the physiological mechanisms underlying the modulation of carotid chemoreceptor functions and 2) the pathophysiological pathways by which mediate changes in the cardiopulmonary activities during chronic hypoxia (CH).

 

Project Title:

Renin-angiotensin system in the carotid body: its expression and functional implications in intermittent hypoxia

Investigator(s):

Fung ML

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2005

Completion Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attentuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats., Ninth Annual Scientific Meeting, Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Medicine and the Fifth Scientific Conference on Cardiovascular Sciences Across the Strait, Hong Kong, 3-4 December, 2005. 13: 104.

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 104.

 

Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates systemic hypentension and hippocampal inflammation in chronically hypoxic rats, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates the rat hypertensive response to intermittent hypoxia, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Jian K.H., Chan M., Fung M.L. and Gao T.M., Distribution and excitable effects of NOS in rat hippocampal neurons cultured in vitro, Chinese Journal of Clinical Anatomy. 2006, 24(3): 308-310.

 

Jian K.H., Chan M., Fung M.L. and Gao T.M., Effects of NO Donors SNP and DEA on L-type calcium currents in cultural hippocampal neurons, Chinese Journal of Neuromedicine. 2006, 5(6): 550-554.

 

Lam S.S.Y., Wong T.P., Tjong Y.W., Leung P.S. and Fung M.L., Chronic hypoxia upregulates the expression and function of AT4 receptor in rat carotid body, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 107.

 

Lam S.S.Y., Liong E.C., Tipoe G.L. and Fung M.L., Expression of HIF-2a and HIF-3a in the rat carotid body in chronic hypoxia, In: Yoshiaki Hayashida, constancio Gonzalez, Histake Kondo, Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology: The Arterial Chemoreceptors. New York, Springer, 2006, 580: 29-36.

 

Lam S.S.Y., Tipoe G.L., Liong E.C. and Fung M.L., Expressions of Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha, -2 alpha and -3 alpha in the rat carotid body during chronic and intermittent hypoxia, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Lam S.S.Y., Tipoe G.L., Liong E.C. and Fung M.L., Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1a and endothelin-1 expression in the rat carotid body during intermitten hypoxia, In: Yoshiaki Hayashida, Constancio Gonzalez, Hisatake Kondo, Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology: The Arterial Chemoreceptors. New York, Springer, 2006, 580: 21-27.

 

Leung T.M., Tipoe G.L., Fan S.T., Liong E.C., Fung M.L. and Nanji A.A., Endothelial nitric oxide synthase is an important factor in the progression of liver fibrosis, Hepatology. 2005, 597A No.1019.

 

Leung T.M., Fan S.T., Liong E.C., Fung M.L., Lau T.Y.H., Leung K.M., Tom W.M., Nanji A.A. and Tipoe G.L., Interaction of fibrotic factors and nitric oxide in chronic liver injury animal model, European ASL meeting, France. 2005.

 

Tipoe G.L., Lau T.Y., Nanji A.A. and Fung M.L., Expression and functions of vasoactive substances regulated by hypoxia-inducible factor-1 in chronic hypoxemia, Cardiovascular & Haematological Agents in Medicinal Chemistry. 2006, 4: 199-218.

 

Tipoe G.L., Lau T.Y., Fung M.L., Liong E.C., Leung T.M. and Nanji A.A., Upregulation of glucose transporters mediated by HIF-1 a is an important adaptive response in chronic liver hypoxia, Hepatology. 2005, 528A No.848.

 

Tjong Y.W., Chen Y., Liong E.C., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L. and Fung M.L., Chronic hypoxia modulates the function and expression of melatonin receptors in the rat carotid body, Journal of Pineal Research. 2006, 40(2): 125-134.

 

Tjong Y.W. and Fung M.L., Decrease in large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel activity in rat hippocampal CA1 neurons in intermittent hypoxia, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Tjong Y.W. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia decreases activity of large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Tjong Y.W. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia time-dependently reduces large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel activities via redox mechanism in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, 25th Annual Meeting Hong Kong Society of Neuroscience. 2005, 27.

 

To C.Y., Kwan T.F., Fok T.F., Chan A.S.Y., Chan F.H.Y., Chan T.C., Chan W.K., Chan Y.L., Chau A.W.L., Fung K.P., Fung M.L., Fung P.C.W., Hoosain R., Hung J.H.W., Lam C.S., Lau D.C., Lee K.M., Mark K.K., Mok A.K.W., Ng S.C.Y., Ng Y.L., So A.T.P., Tang M.S. and Yue K.C., Utilization of neuron-cognitive science for the improvement of language education in Hong Kong, Journal of Bio-Education. 2006, 1(1): 1-14.

 

Tsang C.C., Lam S.S.Y., Tjong Y.W., Liong E.C., Tipoe G.L. and Fung M.L., Expression and function of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide and its receptor in rat carotid body, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Wang C.F., Chen M., Fung M.L. and Gao T.M., Nitric oxide inhibits delayed rectifier potassium currents in cultured hippocampal neurons via S-nitrosylation, Progress in Biochemistry and Biophysics. 2006, 33(3): 241-246.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Calcium handling mechanism of cardioprotection induced by intermittent hypoxia in rat cardiomyocytes against ischemia/reperfusion injury, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Yeung H.M., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Cardioprotection by melatonin against ischemia/reperfusion injury in chronically intermittent hypoxic and chronically hypoxic rats, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia ameliorates calcium homeostasis and attenuates ischemia/reperfusion injury in the rat heart, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia attenuates the impaired calcium handling and contractility in ischemia/reperfusion in rat cardiomyocytes, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 128.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia improves calcium homeostasis in rat cardiomyocytes and confers cardioprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury, Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology . 2005, 39(3): 576.

 

Researcher : Huang FY

List of Research Outputs

 

Tang H.C., Huang F.Y., So K.F., Man R.Y.K. and Vanhoutte P.M.G.R., Agonists causing endothelium-dependent contractions increase calcium in endothelial cells of the aorta of the spontaneously hypertensive rat, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 120 OP92.

 

Researcher : Hung MW

List of Research Outputs

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attentuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats., Ninth Annual Scientific Meeting, Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Medicine and the Fifth Scientific Conference on Cardiovascular Sciences Across the Strait, Hong Kong, 3-4 December, 2005. 13: 104.

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 104.

 

Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates systemic hypentension and hippocampal inflammation in chronically hypoxic rats, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates the rat hypertensive response to intermittent hypoxia, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Tjong Y.W., Chen Y., Liong E.C., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L. and Fung M.L., Chronic hypoxia modulates the function and expression of melatonin receptors in the rat carotid body, Journal of Pineal Research. 2006, 40(2): 125-134.

 

Yeung H.M., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Cardioprotection by melatonin against ischemia/reperfusion injury in chronically intermittent hypoxic and chronically hypoxic rats, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Researcher : Hwang ISS

List of Research Outputs

 

Li Y.Y., Cheung B.M.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Hwang I.S.S., Kumana C.R. and Tang F., Adrenomedullin gene expression and levels in the cardiovascular system after treatment with lipopolysaccharide, Neuropeptides. 2005, 39: 73-80.

 

Li Y.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Cheung B.M.Y., Hwang I.S.S. and Tang F., Differential Induction of Adrenomedullin, Interleukins and Tumour Necrosis Factor-aby Lipopolysaccharide in Rat Tissues in Vivo, Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology. Australia, Blackwell Science Asia, 2005, 32(12): 1110-1118.

 

Li Y.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Cheung B.M.Y., Hwang I.S.S. and Tang F., Differential induction of adrenomedullin, interleukins and tumour necrosis factor-alpha by lipopolysaccharide in rat tissues in vivo. , Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology. 2005, 32: 1110-1118.

 

Tang F., Wong P.F., Hwang I.S.S. and Li Y.Y., Ether stress increases adrenomedullin gene expression and levels in the rat adrenal. , Hormone and Metabolic Research. 2005, 37: 585-588.

 

Researcher : Kam WL

List of Research Outputs

 

Liu J., Kam W.L., Borchert G.H., Kravtsov G.M., Ballard H.J. and Wong T.M., Further study on the role of heat shock protein 70 on Ca2+ homeostasis in rat ventricular myocytes subjected to ischemic insults, Am J Physiol Cell Physiol . 2006, 290: C583-C591.

 

Researcher : Kravtsov GM

List of Research Outputs

 

Liu J., Kam W.L., Borchert G.H., Kravtsov G.M., Ballard H.J. and Wong T.M., Further study on the role of heat shock protein 70 on Ca2+ homeostasis in rat ventricular myocytes subjected to ischemic insults, Am J Physiol Cell Physiol . 2006, 290: C583-C591.

 

Researcher : Kwok JCF

List of Research Outputs

 

Lau J.W.K., Kwok J.C.F., Ng K.Y., Chan Y.S. and Shum D.K.Y., Developing vestibular commissural projections display differential patterns with chondroitinase treatment of the hindbrain, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 481.8.

 

Researcher : Lai CH

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen L.W., Tse Y.C., Li C., Guan Z.L., Lai C.H., Yung K.K.L., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Differential expression of NMDA and AMPA/KA receptor subunits in the inferior olive of postnatal rats. , Brain Research. 2006, 1067(1): 103-114.

 

Chu J.Y.S., Lee T.O., Chung S.C.K., Lai C.H., Chan Y.S., Yung W.H. and Chow B.K.C., Secretin in the hypothalamo-pituitary-renal system: Implication of secretin in regulating water homeostasis, Proceedings of the 88th Annual Meeting of the Endocrinology Society. 2006, OR48-6.

 

Lai C.H., Zhang Y.K. and Chan Y.S., Spatial coding in peripheral and central otolith neurons of young and adult rats, Neuroscience Bulletin. 2005, 21: 444.

 

Lai S.K., Lai C.H., Yung K.K., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Maturation of otolith-related brainstem neurons in the detection of vertical linear acceleration in rats. , Eur J Neurosci.. 2006, 23(9): 2431-46.

 

Tse Y.C., Lai S.K., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Coding of gravity-related 3-D spatial orientations in brainstem nuclei of adult rats, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 392.11.

 

Tse Y.C., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Orientation-specific maturation time and frequency responsiveness of utricle-related central vestibular neurons in rats, Proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of Japan Neuroscience Society. 2005, P3–96.

 

Tse Y.C., Li C., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Postnatal coding of gravity-related horizontal orientations in neurons within the rat vestibule-olivary pathway, Neuroscience Bulletin. 2005, 21: 446-447.

 

Yiu C.N.S., Chan Y.S. and Lai C.H., Developmental expression of c-fos in canal-related brainstem neurons of rats following horizontal angular acceleration, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 392.12.

 

Zhang F.X., Lai C.H., Tse Y.C., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Expression of Trk receptors in otolith-related neurons in the vestibular nucleus of rats., Brain Research. 2005, 1062(1-2): 92-100.

 

Zhang F.X., Lai C.H., Li J.L., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Tyrosine kinase receptor immunoreactivity in trigeminal mesencephalic and motor neurons following transection of masseteric nerve of the rat. , Neuroscience. 2006, 139(3): 921-30.

 

Researcher : Lai SK

List of Research Outputs

 

Lai S.K., Yung W.H. and Chan Y.S., Developmental profile of ionotropic glutamate receptors in spinal vestibular neurons of rats, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 601.12.

 

Lai S.K., Yung W.H. and Chan Y.S., Ionotropic glutamate receptors in spinal vestibular neurons of developing rats., Proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of Japan Neuroscience Society. 2005, P1–82.

 

Lai S.K., Lai C.H., Yung K.K., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Maturation of otolith-related brainstem neurons in the detection of vertical linear acceleration in rats. , Eur J Neurosci.. 2006, 23(9): 2431-46.

 

Tse Y.C., Lai S.K., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Coding of gravity-related 3-D spatial orientations in brainstem nuclei of adult rats, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 392.11.

 

Researcher : Lam SSY

List of Research Outputs

 

Lam S.S.Y., Wong T.P., Tjong Y.W., Leung P.S. and Fung M.L., Chronic hypoxia upregulates the expression and function of AT4 receptor in rat carotid body, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 107.

 

Lam S.S.Y., Liong E.C., Tipoe G.L. and Fung M.L., Expression of HIF-2a and HIF-3a in the rat carotid body in chronic hypoxia, In: Yoshiaki Hayashida, constancio Gonzalez, Histake Kondo, Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology: The Arterial Chemoreceptors. New York, Springer, 2006, 580: 29-36.

 

Lam S.S.Y., Tipoe G.L., Liong E.C. and Fung M.L., Expressions of Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha, -2 alpha and -3 alpha in the rat carotid body during chronic and intermittent hypoxia, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Lam S.S.Y., Tipoe G.L., Liong E.C. and Fung M.L., Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1a and endothelin-1 expression in the rat carotid body during intermitten hypoxia, In: Yoshiaki Hayashida, Constancio Gonzalez, Hisatake Kondo, Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology: The Arterial Chemoreceptors. New York, Springer, 2006, 580: 21-27.

 

Tsang C.C., Lam S.S.Y., Tjong Y.W., Liong E.C., Tipoe G.L. and Fung M.L., Expression and function of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide and its receptor in rat carotid body, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Researcher : Lau JWK

List of Research Outputs

 

Lau J.W.K., Kwok J.C.F., Ng K.Y., Chan Y.S. and Shum D.K.Y., Developing vestibular commissural projections display differential patterns with chondroitinase treatment of the hindbrain, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 481.8.

 

Lau J.W.K., Kwok J.C.F., Ng K.Y., Chan Y.S. and Shum D.K.Y., Developing vestibular neurons display altered commissural projections with depletion of chondroitin sulfates of the hindbrain matrix, Proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of Japan Neuroscience Society. 2005, P3–37.

 

Lau J.W.K., Yung W.H., Chan Y.S. and Yung K.K.L., Developmental assembly of GABA receptors in the rat substantia nigra, In: Bolam JP, Ingham CA, Magill PJ, The Basal Ganglia VIII. New York, Springer, 2005, 229-240.

 

Researcher : Li C

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen L.W., Tse Y.C., Li C., Guan Z.L., Lai C.H., Yung K.K.L., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Differential expression of NMDA and AMPA/KA receptor subunits in the inferior olive of postnatal rats. , Brain Research. 2006, 1067(1): 103-114.

 

Li C., Zhang Y.K., Guan Z.L., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Vestibular afferent innervation in the vestibular efferent nucleus of rats. , Neurosci Lett.. 2005, 385(1): 36-40.

 

Tse Y.C., Li C., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Postnatal coding of gravity-related horizontal orientations in neurons within the rat vestibule-olivary pathway, Neuroscience Bulletin. 2005, 21: 446-447.

 

Researcher : Li GR

Project Title:

Volume-sensitive chloride current and cell volume regulation in human atrial myocytes

Investigator(s):

Li GR, Lau CP, Chiu SW, Tse HF

Department:

Medicine

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2001

 

Abstract:

To determine the intracellular signaling pathways that regulate ICl.vol and cell volume in human atrium; to determine whether ICl.vol is persistently activated in atrial myocytes from patients with dilated atrial cardiomyopathy.

 

Project Title:

Ionic channels of mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow and cell proliferation

Investigator(s):

Li GR, Lau CP, Chung SSM, Tse HF

Department:

Medicine

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

12/2003

Completion Date:

07/2006

 

Abstract:

To analyze the molecular identities of IKDR, IKCa, and INa in MSCs from rat bone marrow with semi-quantitative reverse transcript-polymeterase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and patch clamp techniques; to test the hypothesis that the three types of channels (IKDR, IKCa and INa) are involved in the proliferation of rat MSCs by determining cell proliferation in the absence and presence of channel blockers and modulators.

 

Project Title:

Ionic channels of mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow and cell proliferation

Investigator(s):

Li GR, Lau CP, Chung SSM, Tse HF

Department:

Medicine

Source(s) of Funding:

Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects

Start Date:

12/2003

Completion Date:

11/2005

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Modulation of cloned human cardiac potassium channel by protein tyrosine kinase

Investigator(s):

Li GR

Department:

Medical Faculty

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

Completion Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

To clarify specific PTK pathway that is involved in the modulation of IKs channels.

 

Project Title:

Ion channels of preadipocytes and cell proliferation and differentiation

Investigator(s):

Li GR

Department:

Medical Faculty

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2005

Completion Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Studies on Ion Channels in Human Pre-adipocytes

Investigator(s):

Li GR, Lau CP

Department:

Medical Faculty

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

05/2006

 

Abstract:

Ion channels play an important role in the physiological activities of many types of cells. In excitable cells, activation of ion channels generates action potentials and participates in excitation-contraction (muscles), excitation-secretion (glands), and impulse conduction (nerve and muscles), as well as repolarizing cell membrane potential. In proliferative cells, ion channels are found to be required for cell proliferation. Recent studies have demonstrated that several K channels, eg. inward rectifier K channels (IKir), delayed rectifier K channels (IKDR), ATP-sensitive K channel (IKATP), are involved in the cell cycling of lymphocytes, neuronal glial cells (e.g. astrocytes), epithelial cells, and cancer cells. Blockade of IKDR is believed to inhibit cell proliferation, whereas inhibition of IKIR promotes proliferation in rat spinal cord astrocytes. In addition, volume-sensitive chloride current (ICl.vol) is involved in the proliferation of several types of cells including vascular smooth muscle and endothelial cells, cancer cells etc. These studies indicate an important relationship between ion channels and cell proliferation. There has been a dramatic increase in the incidence of obesity resulting from an excess of white adipose tissue. Obesity is a prevalent health hazard in industrial countries, and is closely associated with the occurrence of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Preadipocytes are the origin of fat cells of white adipose tissue. For the past two decades, in vitro systems have been extensively used to study adipocyte differentiation with preadipocytes. Although significant progress has been made in the dissection of the molecular and cellular events taking place during the transition from undifferentiated preadipocytes into mature round fat cells, control of adipocyte differentiation is not completely understood, especially ion channels and thire physiological roles in proliferation/differentiation have not been studied. The present proposal was to study ion channel expression and thire molecular identidies in human pre-adipocytes commercially obtained from CellSicence using whole-cell patch clamp and RT-PCR techniques, and to provide the experimental data for obtaining external RGC grant to further study whether/how ion channels are involved in proliferation/differentiation in human pre-adipocytes.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Researcher : Li YY

List of Research Outputs

 

Li Y.Y., Cheung B.M.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Hwang I.S.S., Kumana C.R. and Tang F., Adrenomedullin gene expression and levels in the cardiovascular system after treatment with lipopolysaccharide, Neuropeptides. 2005, 39: 73-80.

 

Li Y.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Cheung B.M.Y., Hwang I.S.S. and Tang F., Differential Induction of Adrenomedullin, Interleukins and Tumour Necrosis Factor-aby Lipopolysaccharide in Rat Tissues in Vivo, Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology. Australia, Blackwell Science Asia, 2005, 32(12): 1110-1118.

 

Li Y.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Cheung B.M.Y., Hwang I.S.S. and Tang F., Differential induction of adrenomedullin, interleukins and tumour necrosis factor-alpha by lipopolysaccharide in rat tissues in vivo. , Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology. 2005, 32: 1110-1118.

 

Tang F., Wong P.F., Hwang I.S.S. and Li Y.Y., Ether stress increases adrenomedullin gene expression and levels in the rat adrenal. , Hormone and Metabolic Research. 2005, 37: 585-588.

 

Researcher : Liu J

List of Research Outputs

 

Liu J., Kam W.L., Borchert G.H., Kravtsov G.M., Ballard H.J. and Wong T.M., Further study on the role of heat shock protein 70 on Ca2+ homeostasis in rat ventricular myocytes subjected to ischemic insults, Am J Physiol Cell Physiol . 2006, 290: C583-C591.

 

Researcher : Lung MAKY

Project Title:

Endothelins in nasal mucosa: role in nasal congestion and decongestion

Investigator(s):

Lung MAKY

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To investigate the role of endothelins on the nasal mucosa, eliciting nasal congestion or decongestion, as well as the underlying vascular events and control mechanisms.

 

Project Title:

Female sex hormones on nasal mucosa: non-genomic role in nasal congestion and underlying vascular and control mechanisms

Investigator(s):

Lung MAKY

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2005

Completion Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Researcher : Lung MKY

Project Title:

Endothelins in nasal mucosa: role in nasal congestion and decongestion

Investigator(s):

Lung MAKY

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To investigate the role of endothelins on the nasal mucosa, eliciting nasal congestion or decongestion, as well as the underlying vascular events and control mechanisms.

 

Project Title:

Female sex hormones on nasal mucosa: non-genomic role in nasal congestion and underlying vascular and control mechanisms

Investigator(s):

Lung MAKY

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2005

Completion Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Researcher : Mittra S

List of Research Outputs

 

Mittra S. and Bourreau J.P., Gs And Gi Coupling Of Adrenomedullin In Adult Rat Ventricular Myocytes, American Journal of Physiology (Heart and Circulatory Physiology). 2006, 290: H1842-H1847.

 

Mittra S. and Bourreau J.P., The Gs and Gi coupling of adrenomedullin in adult rat ventricular myocytes, American Journal of Physiology (Heart and Circulatory Physiology). 2005, DOI, 10.1152/ajpheart.00388.2005.

 

Researcher : Mo HCW

List of Research Outputs

 

Shiu S.Y.W., Mo H.C.W. and Tam C.W., G protein-coupled melatonin receptor expression in human prostate tissues. , X. Congress of the European Pineal and Biological Rhythms Society (EPBRS), Frankfurt, 1-5 September, 2005,. 2005, 160.

 

Researcher : Ng KY

List of Research Outputs

 

Lau J.W.K., Kwok J.C.F., Ng K.Y., Chan Y.S. and Shum D.K.Y., Developing vestibular commissural projections display differential patterns with chondroitinase treatment of the hindbrain, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 481.8.

 

Lau J.W.K., Kwok J.C.F., Ng K.Y., Chan Y.S. and Shum D.K.Y., Developing vestibular neurons display altered commissural projections with depletion of chondroitin sulfates of the hindbrain matrix, Proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of Japan Neuroscience Society. 2005, P3–37.

 

Researcher : Poon AMS

List of Research Outputs

 

Cheung K.M.C., Wang T., Poon A.M.S., Carl A., Tranmer B., Hu Y.G., Luk K.D.K. and Leong J.C.Y., The effect of pinealectomy on scoliosis development in young non-human primates, Spine. 2005, 30(18): 2009-2013.

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attentuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats., Ninth Annual Scientific Meeting, Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Medicine and the Fifth Scientific Conference on Cardiovascular Sciences Across the Strait, Hong Kong, 3-4 December, 2005. 13: 104.

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 104.

 

Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates systemic hypentension and hippocampal inflammation in chronically hypoxic rats, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates the rat hypertensive response to intermittent hypoxia, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Yeung H.M., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Cardioprotection by melatonin against ischemia/reperfusion injury in chronically intermittent hypoxic and chronically hypoxic rats, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Researcher : Shiu SYW

Project Title:

Role of PDZD2 in the modulation of prostate cancer cell proliferation

Investigator(s):

Shiu SYW, Yao KM

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

Completion Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

To determine the expression of full-length and secreted forms of PDZD2 in common prostate cancer cell lines; to detect any changes in the expression of the full-length and secreted forms of PDZD2 upon hormonal stimulation of prostate cancer cell proliferation; to study the effect of decreased endogenous expression of PDZD2 on prostate cancer cell proliferation.

 

Project Title:

sPDZD2-induced protein profile changes in prostate cancer

Investigator(s):

Shiu SYW, Yao KM

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To express and purify sPDZD2 in E. coli, and to study the effects of the recombinant protein on the protein profiles of human prostate cancer to cells using a 'proteomics' approach.

 

Project Title:

Functional roles of PDZD2 and sPDZD2 in prostate cancer pathogenesis

Investigator(s):

Shiu SYW

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2005

Completion Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Overexpression of sPDZD2 in prostate cancer cells

Investigator(s):

Shiu SYW, Yao KM

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

PDZ (PSD95, Discs-large, and ZO-1) domain containing protein 3 (PDZK3), also known as PDZ domain containing protein 2 (PDZD2), is a ubiquitously expressed protein of unknown function which has six PDZ domains. The protein is cleaved in a caspase-dependent mechanism to generate a secreted protein (sPDZD2), which may participate in extracellular signaling [Yeung et al. 2003, EMBO Rep 4: 412]. Interestingly, gene expression of PDZK3 has been reported to be upregulated in prostate cancer when compared with benign tissues Thus, it is believed that PDZK3, also named as activated in prostate cancer protein (AIPC), may play an important role in prostate tumorigenesis [Chaib et al. 2001, Cancer Res 61:2390]. Given that our ongoing studies have demonstrated that sPDZD2 protein is produced and secreted by human prostate cancer cell lines, we would like to postulate that sPDZD2 protein, a cleavage product of PDZD2, may play an important role in prostate cancer pathogenesis by modulating prostate cancer cell growth and differentiation. The objectives of this proposal are to 1) over-express sPDZD2 protein in prostate cancer cells, and 2) to study any effect of the protein on the expression of cell cycle and apoptosis-related proteins in the transfected cancer cells.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attentuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats., Ninth Annual Scientific Meeting, Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Medicine and the Fifth Scientific Conference on Cardiovascular Sciences Across the Strait, Hong Kong, 3-4 December, 2005. 13: 104.

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 104.

 

Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates systemic hypentension and hippocampal inflammation in chronically hypoxic rats, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates the rat hypertensive response to intermittent hypoxia, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Shiu S.Y.W., Mo H.C.W. and Tam C.W., G protein-coupled melatonin receptor expression in human prostate tissues. , X. Congress of the European Pineal and Biological Rhythms Society (EPBRS), Frankfurt, 1-5 September, 2005,. 2005, 160.

 

Tam C.W., Cheng A.S., Lam A.C.W., Yik S.Y., Yao K.M. and Shiu S.Y.W., Prostate Cancer Growth Modulation By sPDZD2, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, Faculty of Medicine, HKU, December 3, 2005 . 2005, 1.18.

 

Yeung H.M., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Cardioprotection by melatonin against ischemia/reperfusion injury in chronically intermittent hypoxic and chronically hypoxic rats, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Yeung P.K.K., Lam C.M.C., Shiu S.Y.W. and Wong J.T.Y., A Neuromuscular Junction-like Calcium Release Mechanism In A Unicellular Organism (The 25th Scientific Meeting of the Hong Kong Society of Neurosciences), Neurosignals. S. Karger, 2006, 15: P-29/25.

 

Researcher : Tam CW

List of Research Outputs

 

Shiu S.Y.W., Mo H.C.W. and Tam C.W., G protein-coupled melatonin receptor expression in human prostate tissues. , X. Congress of the European Pineal and Biological Rhythms Society (EPBRS), Frankfurt, 1-5 September, 2005,. 2005, 160.

 

Tam C.W., Cheng A.S., Lam A.C.W., Yik S.Y., Yao K.M. and Shiu S.Y.W., Prostate Cancer Growth Modulation By sPDZD2, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, Faculty of Medicine, HKU, December 3, 2005 . 2005, 1.18.

 

Researcher : Tang F

Project Title:

The gene expression and levels of adrenomedullin in the ovary and the uterus of the rat: changes during the oestrous cycle and in pregnancy

Investigator(s):

Tang F, O WS

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

Completion Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

To study the mRNA and peptide levels of adrenomedullin in the ovary and the uterus in relation to the different stages of the oestrous cycle and in pregnancy.

 

Project Title:

Adrenomedullin in the rat testis: paracrine actions and its interaction with endothelin

Investigator(s):

Tang F, O WS, Wong P.Y.D.

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2004

 

Abstract:

To study the gene expression and levels of adrenomedullin and also its receptors and binding in the whole testis and in the Leydig cells and Sertoli cells, and the types of receptor activity modifying proteins expressed in these cells which will determine whether these cells respond to adrenomedullin or CGRP or both; to investigate the effects of adrenomedullin on steoidogenesis in the Leydig cells, contraction of seminferous tubules and Sertoli cell secretion in the presence or absense of CGRP or endothelin, gonadotrophins and testosterone.

 

Project Title:

The effects of starvation on the gene expression and peptide levels of adrenomedullin in the gastrointestinal tract

Investigator(s):

Tang F, Sheng HP

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

Completion Date:

02/2006

 

Abstract:

To investigate the changes of adrenomedullin gene expression and peptide levels in the GI tract including the stomach, the liver, pancreas, ileum and colon in 1-day and 4-day starved rats compared with control fed rats; to study the changes in the gene expression levels of the receptors (CRLR) and the receptor activity modifying proteins, RAMP1 and RAMP2.

 

Project Title:

Adrenomedullin in the rat testis: paracrine actions and its interaction with endothelin

Investigator(s):

Tang F

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects

Start Date:

01/2005

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Adrenomedullin in the cryptorchid testis: a model for the study of tubular-interstitial interactions and a possible link between apoptosis and malignancy

Investigator(s):

Tang F

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects

Start Date:

07/2005

Completion Date:

06/2006

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Adrenomedullin as a new metabolic hormone: its distribution and actions in the liver, muscles and adipose tissues, and possible roles in metabolic syndrome and in ageing.

Investigator(s):

Tang F

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

Overall objective. To study the effects of adrenomedullin (AM) on glucose and fat metabolism in the liver, muscle and fat and its roles in metabolic syndrome. Specific objectives. (1) To study the effects of AM on glucose uptake in the liver, muscles and fat, gluconeogenesis in the liver, lipogenesis and lipolysis in fat, and free fatty acid oxidation in the fat and muscle strips. (2) To study the effects of AM on plasma glucose and FFA levels in vivo. (3) To determine the changes of AM levels and gene expression in animal models of metabolic syndrome: (a) the Zucker rat with deficiency of leptin receptors, and (b) rats fed with a high fat diet. (4) To study the parameters listed in (3) in ageing rats if time and resource permit. Ageing is one specific type of metabolic syndrome in the rat because all old rats are obese as a result of the lack of exercise due to confinement to a small space. Background & Rationale. Adrenomedullin (AM) is a newly discovered peptide hormone, which is widely distributed and have many functions, mostly paracrine. AM and its receptors have been reported in the liver and white adipose tissues and this has been confirmed by us. Our laboratory is the first (and the only one so far) to confirm the presence of AM and its gene expression in the skeletal muscles. The metabolic actions of adrenomedullin is largely unknown. Two other members of the calcitonin family (to which AM belongs) i.e. amylin and CGRP, are known to decrease glucose uptake (Abatty & Cooper 2004) and to increase insulin resistance (Molina et al. 1990). AM, like amylin, is produced by the pancreatic islets and inhibits insulin secretion (Martinez et al. 2006). Our preliminary data suggest that AM may increase insulin-mediated glucose uptake by the rat liver cells and by a mouse adipocyte cell line (3T3L1). Another group (Shimosawa et al. 2005) has reported a possible effect of AM on glucose transport in the soleus msucle of a transgenic mouse. The effects of AM on fat metabolism is controversial. AM may increase lipogenesis (Fukai et al. 2005) but is known to inhibit (Hamancey et al. 2005) or stimualte (Linshield et al. 2005) lipolysis in vitro. We hypothesize that AM may be another adipokine like leptin and adiponectin to decrease insulin resistance but is different from these two in acting mainly locally (paracrine action). It may do so in a number of ways, including increase in glucose uptake, decrease in gluconeogenesis and increase in free fatty acid oxidation. If this hypothessis is correct, one would expect changes in AM level and gene expression in the liver, fat and muscles in metabolic syndrome, such as in the Zucker rats or in obesity induced by a high fed diet. Morevover, there is an increase of oxidative stress in metabolic syndrome (Shimosawa & Fujita 2005) and AM is an important anti-oxidant. Metabolic syndrome is characterized by increases in insulin resistance, obesity, hypertension and oxidative stress (Morley 2004). Hypothesis. The hypothesis is that AM may have important actions in the metabolism of the liver, muscle and adipose tissues to modulate insulin resistance, and hence may play important roles in the development of metabolic syndrome . Reference. 1. Abatty T & Cooper GJ (2004) Peptides 25: 2119-2125. 2. Molina JM, Cooper GJ, Leighton B et al. (1990) Diabetes 39: 260-265. 3. Martinez A, Weaver C, Lopez J et al. (1996) Endocrinology 137: 2626-2632. 4. Shimosawa T & Fujita T (2005) Drug News Perspect. 18: 185-189. 5. Fukai N, Yoshimoto T, Sugiyama T et al. (2005) Amer. J. Physiol. 288: E56-62. 6. Hamacey R, Senard JM, Pathak A et al. (2005) FASEB J. 19: 1045-1047. 7. Linshield P, Saboek D, Zulewski H et al. (2005) Endocrinolgoy 46: 2699-2708. 8. Morley LE (2004) J. Gerontol. 59A: 139-142.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Li Y.Y., Cheung B.M.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Hwang I.S.S., Kumana C.R. and Tang F., Adrenomedullin gene expression and levels in the cardiovascular system after treatment with lipopolysaccharide, Neuropeptides. 2005, 39: 73-80.

 

Li Y.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Cheung B.M.Y., Hwang I.S.S. and Tang F., Differential Induction of Adrenomedullin, Interleukins and Tumour Necrosis Factor-aby Lipopolysaccharide in Rat Tissues in Vivo, Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology. Australia, Blackwell Science Asia, 2005, 32(12): 1110-1118.

 

Li Y.Y., Wong L.Y.F., Cheung B.M.Y., Hwang I.S.S. and Tang F., Differential induction of adrenomedullin, interleukins and tumour necrosis factor-alpha by lipopolysaccharide in rat tissues in vivo. , Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology. 2005, 32: 1110-1118.

 

Tang F., Wong P.F., Hwang I.S.S. and Li Y.Y., Ether stress increases adrenomedullin gene expression and levels in the rat adrenal. , Hormone and Metabolic Research. 2005, 37: 585-588.

 

Researcher : Tjong YW

List of Research Outputs

 

Lam S.S.Y., Wong T.P., Tjong Y.W., Leung P.S. and Fung M.L., Chronic hypoxia upregulates the expression and function of AT4 receptor in rat carotid body, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 107.

 

Tjong Y.W., Chen Y., Liong E.C., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L. and Fung M.L., Chronic hypoxia modulates the function and expression of melatonin receptors in the rat carotid body, Journal of Pineal Research. 2006, 40(2): 125-134.

 

Tjong Y.W. and Fung M.L., Decrease in large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel activity in rat hippocampal CA1 neurons in intermittent hypoxia, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Tjong Y.W. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia decreases activity of large conductance calcium-activated potassium channels in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Tjong Y.W. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia time-dependently reduces large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel activities via redox mechanism in rat hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons, 25th Annual Meeting Hong Kong Society of Neuroscience. 2005, 27.

 

Tsang C.C., Lam S.S.Y., Tjong Y.W., Liong E.C., Tipoe G.L. and Fung M.L., Expression and function of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide and its receptor in rat carotid body, The Physiology Symposium 2006 (Hong Kong-Taiwan), CUHK, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Researcher : Tse YC

List of Research Outputs

 

Chen L.W., Tse Y.C., Li C., Guan Z.L., Lai C.H., Yung K.K.L., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Differential expression of NMDA and AMPA/KA receptor subunits in the inferior olive of postnatal rats. , Brain Research. 2006, 1067(1): 103-114.

 

Tse Y.C., Lai S.K., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Coding of gravity-related 3-D spatial orientations in brainstem nuclei of adult rats, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 392.11.

 

Tse Y.C., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Orientation-specific maturation time and frequency responsiveness of utricle-related central vestibular neurons in rats, Proceedings of the 28th Annual Meeting of Japan Neuroscience Society. 2005, P3–96.

 

Tse Y.C., Li C., Lai C.H. and Chan Y.S., Postnatal coding of gravity-related horizontal orientations in neurons within the rat vestibule-olivary pathway, Neuroscience Bulletin. 2005, 21: 446-447.

 

Zhang F.X., Lai C.H., Tse Y.C., Shum D.K.Y. and Chan Y.S., Expression of Trk receptors in otolith-related neurons in the vestibular nucleus of rats., Brain Research. 2005, 1062(1-2): 92-100.

 

Researcher : Tu J

List of Research Outputs

 

Tu J. and Ballard H.J., Increase in interstitial ATP levels of rat soleus muscle during lactic acid infusion., Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, (in press).

 

Researcher : Wang G

List of Research Outputs

 

Xiao G., Zhou J., Wang G., Cao C., Li G.R. and Wong T.M., In vitro electrophysiologic effects of morphine in rabbit ventricular myocytes, Anesthesiology. 2005, 103: 280-286.

 

Researcher : Wong PF

List of Research Outputs

 

Tang F., Wong P.F., Hwang I.S.S. and Li Y.Y., Ether stress increases adrenomedullin gene expression and levels in the rat adrenal. , Hormone and Metabolic Research. 2005, 37: 585-588.

 

Researcher : Wong TM

Project Title:

Signaling mechanism of preconditioning with U50, 488H in the rat - the role of Katp channels

Investigator(s):

Wong TM

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2002

 

Abstract:

To determine the roles of two types of KATP channels, mitochondrial and sarcolemmal in delayed cardioprotection of preconditioning with a [kappa] opioid receptor [kappa]-OR agonist, U50, 488H; to determine the relationship between KATP channels and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), which has already been shown to mediate delayed cardioprotection of preconditioning with U50, 488H.

 

Project Title:

Ca2+ homeostasis and delayed cardioprotection of preconditioning with metabolic inhibition or kappa opioid receptor agonist: role of stress inducible heat shock protein and mitochondrial K ATP channel

Investigator(s):

Wong TM, Li GR, Sham J.S.K.

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)

Start Date:

09/2003

Completion Date:

08/2005

 

Abstract:

To test the hypothesis that preconditioning with a kppa-OR agonist or MI, that confers delayed cardioprotection, prevents the elevations in cytoplasmic and mitochondrial Ca2+; to test the hypothesis that the HSP and K(ATP) channel, that mediates and triggers delayed cardioprotection of MIP and UP, respectively prevents the alterations in the Ca2+ handling induced by MI insult.

 

Project Title:

Ca2+ homeostasis and delayed cardioprotection of preconditioning with metabolic inhibition or kappa opioid receptor agonist: role of stress inducible heat shock protein and mitochondrial K ATP channel

Investigator(s):

Wong TM, Li GR, Sham J.S.K.

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Merit Award for RGC CERG Funded Projects

Start Date:

09/2003

Completion Date:

08/2005

 

Abstract:

N/A

 

Project Title:

Electrophysiological actions of morphine in the rodent and human heart

Investigator(s):

Wong TM, Cheung YF, Li GR

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2003

Completion Date:

10/2005

 

Abstract:

To study the electrophysiological properties of morphine at clinical concentrations in human and rodent myocytes, and the involvement of opioid receptor subtype.

 

Project Title:

Effects of testosterone on intracellular Ca2 transient and its response to adrenoceptor stimulation

Investigator(s):

Wong TM

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

11/2004

 

Abstract:

To understand the role of T on the regulation of cardiac functions; to understand the interaction between T and ARs.

 

Project Title:

Cardioprotective effect of oestrogen–Ca2+ homeostasis and the signalling mechanisms

Investigator(s):

Wong TM

Department:

Physiology

Source(s) of Funding:

Small Project Funding

Start Date:

01/2006

 

Abstract:

Eostrogen (E), the predominant female sex hormone, is well known to protect the heart against ischaemic insults. We showed in our previous studies that E confers cardioprotection by suppressing the beta1-adrenoceptor (b1-AR). We also found in preliminary studies that the cardioprotection resulting from interaction (cross-talk) between E and 1-AR is accompanied by attenuation of intracellular Ca overload, indicating that the cross-talk may restore the impaired Ca homeostasis. The first objective of the proposed study is to determine the effects of E on Ca handling at different sites of the ventricular myocyte. Since Ca homeostasis is regulated in aprt by two signalling pathways, namely Gs-protein/adenylyl cyclase/cAMP/protein kinase A and Ca2+/calmodulin kinase II (CaMKII), we also propose to determine whether and how estrogen affects Ca homeostasis via thse two pathways. With the support from the University and the Research Grants Council, the PI has been working on role of estrogen in cardiac function and cardioprotection in the past few years. The proposed study is a contimuation of the existing research. So the PI has all the expertise for the proposed study in terms of facility and knowledge in the field of study.

 

List of Research Outputs

 

Cao C., Chen M. and Wong T.M., The K(Ca) channel as a trigger for the cardioprotection induced by kappa-opioid receptor stimulation – its relationship with protein kinase C, Br J Pharmacol. 2005, 145(7): 984-991.

 

Liu J., Kam W.L., Borchert G.H., Kravtsov G.M., Ballard H.J. and Wong T.M., Further study on the role of heat shock protein 70 on Ca2+ homeostasis in rat ventricular myocytes subjected to ischemic insults, Am J Physiol Cell Physiol . 2006, 290: C583-C591.

 

Xiao G., Zhou J., Wang G., Cao C., Li G.R. and Wong T.M., In vitro electrophysiologic effects of morphine in rabbit ventricular myocytes, Anesthesiology. 2005, 103: 280-286.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Calcium handling mechanism of cardioprotection induced by intermittent hypoxia in rat cardiomyocytes against ischemia/reperfusion injury, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Yeung H.M., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Cardioprotection by melatonin against ischemia/reperfusion injury in chronically intermittent hypoxic and chronically hypoxic rats, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia ameliorates calcium homeostasis and attenuates ischemia/reperfusion injury in the rat heart, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia attenuates the impaired calcium handling and contractility in ischemia/reperfusion in rat cardiomyocytes, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 128.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia improves calcium homeostasis in rat cardiomyocytes and confers cardioprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury, Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology . 2005, 39(3): 576.

 

Researcher : Xiao G

List of Research Outputs

 

Xiao G., Zhou J., Wang G., Cao C., Li G.R. and Wong T.M., In vitro electrophysiologic effects of morphine in rabbit ventricular myocytes, Anesthesiology. 2005, 103: 280-286.

 

Researcher : Yeung HM

List of Research Outputs

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attentuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats., Ninth Annual Scientific Meeting, Institute of Cardiovascular Science and Medicine and the Fifth Scientific Conference on Cardiovascular Sciences Across the Strait, Hong Kong, 3-4 December, 2005. 13: 104.

 

Hung M.W., Yeung H.M., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W. and Fung M.L., Melatonin attenuates cardiac ischemia/reperfusion injury and hypertensive response to chronic hypoxia in rats, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 104.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Calcium handling mechanism of cardioprotection induced by intermittent hypoxia in rat cardiomyocytes against ischemia/reperfusion injury, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Yeung H.M., Hung M.W., Tipoe G.L., Poon A.M.S., Shiu S.Y.W., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Cardioprotection by melatonin against ischemia/reperfusion injury in chronically intermittent hypoxic and chronically hypoxic rats, The First International Symposium on Healthy Aging, HKU, Hong Kong. 2006.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia ameliorates calcium homeostasis and attenuates ischemia/reperfusion injury in the rat heart, 10th Research Postgraduate Symposium, HKU. 2005.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia attenuates the impaired calcium handling and contractility in ischemia/reperfusion in rat cardiomyocytes, Journal of the Hong Kong College of Cardiology. 2005, 13(2): 128.

 

Yeung H.M., Wong T.M. and Fung M.L., Intermittent hypoxia improves calcium homeostasis in rat cardiomyocytes and confers cardioprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury, Journal of Molecular and Cellular Cardiology . 2005, 39(3): 576.

 

Researcher : Yiu CNS

List of Research Outputs

 

Yiu C.N.S., Chan Y.S. and Lai C.H., Developmental expression of c-fos in canal-related brainstem neurons of rats following horizontal angular acceleration, Society for Neuroscience Abstract (U.S.A.). 2005, 392.12.

 

Researcher : Zhou J

List of Research Outputs

 

Xiao G., Zhou J., Wang G., Cao C., Li G.R. and Wong T.M., In vitro electrophysiologic effects of morphine in rabbit ventricular myocytes, Anesthesiology. 2005, 103: 280-286.



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