School of Biological Sciences

SCHOOL OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

Researcher : Bao W

List of Research Outputs

Bao W., Leung K.M.Y., Kwok W.H.K.P., Zhang Q. and Lui C.S.G., Synergistic toxic effects of zinc pyrithione and copper to three marine species: implications on setting appropriate water quality criteria, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 616-623.

Kwok W.H.K.P., Leung K.M.Y., Bao W. and Lee J.S., Copper toxicity in the marine copepod Tigropus japonicus: Low variability and high reproducibility of repeated acute and life-cycle tests, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 632-636.

Zhang Q., Leung K.M.Y., Bao W., Kwok W.H.K.P. and Lam M.H.W., Toxicities of Irgarol 1051 and its major degradation product to marine primary producers, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 575-586.

Researcher : Bao WW

List of Research Outputs

Stauber J.L., Binet M.T., Boge J.A., Zhang Q., Bao W.W. and Leung K.M.Y., Comparison of the qwiklite algal bioluminescence bioassay with standard marine algal growth rate inhibition tests, The 13th International Symposium on Toxicity Assessment (ISTA), 19-24 August 2007, Toyama, Japan . 2007.

Researcher : Brooks JD

List of Research Outputs

Shan B., Cai Y., Brooks J.D. and Corke H., Antibacterial properties and major bioactive components of cinnamon stick (Cinnamomum burmannii): activity against foodborne pathogenic bacteria, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2007, 55 (14): 5484 -5490.

Researcher : Cai Y

Project Title:	A systematic investigation on novel natural inhibitors of fatty acid synthase from medicinal and dietary plants
Investigator(s):	Cai Y, Corke H
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	11/2006

Abstract:

The main objectives of this study are:(1) to systematically investigate and identify novel natural inhibitors of animal fatty acid synthase (FAS) from a large number of bioactive phenolic compounds from medicinal and/or dietary plants; (2) to analyze the structure-activity relationships of the identified novel FAS inhibitors and their kinetic inhibition mechanisms of FAS;(3) to screen potent natural FAS inhibitors as further experimental materials for the development of potential natural chemopreventive and therapeutic agents against cancer.During the last decades, the health-promoting effects of phenolic compounds from dietary and/or medicinal plants have been extensively investigated, such as antioxidant, anticancer, antiatherosclerotic, and antimicrobial activities. Consumption of dietary plants (vegetables, fruits, teas, and spices) and traditional medicinal herbs containing a variety of phenolic compounds has been shown to help prevent many chronic diseases such as cancer and obesity and to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease (a typical example is green/black tea and tea polyphenols) (Tapiero et al 2002; Lin and Lin-Shiau 2006). Much attention has been recently given to the bioactive constituents that are not present in standard oral vitamin supplements, with a particular focus on natural phenolic compounds, widely present in plants. Animal FAS is a key enzyme participating in energy metabolism and is related to chronic diseases such as cancer and obesity (Loftus et al 2000; Kuhajda 2006; Tian 2006). This enzyme is a complex multifunctional enzyme that contains multiple catalytic domains and a phosphopantotheine prosthetic group on a single polypeptide and that catalyzes the reductive synthesis of long-chain fatty acid (palmitate) from the substrates acetyl-CoA, malonly-CoA, and NADPH (Smith et al 2003). It has been found that FAS has low expression in normal human tissues, but it is significantly expressed in a variety of human cancers such as breast, prostate, colon, lung, esophagus, ovary, thyroid, and bladder (Kuhajda 2000, 2006; Lu and Archer 2005). Many recent studies have shown that FAS is a potential therapeutic target for cancer. In addition, animal FAS has also been proposed as a potential target for appetite and weight control (Kuhajda et al 2005; Tian, 2006).The inhibition of animal FAS as a strategy for anticancer and anti-obesity therapies has been receiving much more attention. So far some FAS inhibitors have been reported, such as cerulenin, synthetic C75, orlistat and thiolactomycin (Kuhajda et al 2000; Kridel et al 2004). In particular, some natural polyphenols (e.g., tea polyphenols, some other flavonoids) have been reported to be effective FAS inhibitors (Brusselmans et al 2005; Tian 2006). There has been considerable interest in screening and identifying novel natural FAS inhibitors. As X-ray quality crystals of whole FAS have not been obtained, the precise structure of animal FAS has not been completely elucidated (Smith et al 2003). Thus it is not easy to directly study its inhibition mechanisms and design specific inhibitors. Only a few chemically synthesized FAS inhibitors have been reported. An alternative approach is to identify and screen novel inhibitors of FAS from natural plant sources. However, so far fewer than 20 natural flavonoids have been investigated for the FAS inhibition. More novel natural FAS inhibitors with clear structure and inhibition mechanism and with both reversible and irreversible inhibition are needed. The inhibition of animal FAS as a strategy for anticancer therapies has been emphasized just in the past few years. The effectiveness of animal FAS as an anticancer target needs to be further validated.Additionally, plant-derived tannins, also belonging to plant polyphenols, are commonly divided into condensed tannins and hydrolyzable tannins. They are also widely distributed in dietary and medicinal plants like flavonoids. Natural bioactives tannins are good inhibitors of many enzymes and also potent natural antioxidants (Copeland 2000; Tapiero et al 2002). Nevertheless, there have been few studies on bioactive tannins as FAS inhibitors.

List of Research Outputs

Cai Y., Sun M. and Corke H., Natural phenolic antioxidants from traditional medical herbs and dietary plants (Abstract), The Third International Symposium on Healthy Aging: Improving the Health of an Aging Population (Hong Kong). 2008.

Hu C., Cai Y., Li W.D., Corke H. and Kitts D.D., Anthocyanin characterization and bioactivity assessment of a dark blue grained wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Hedong Wumai) extract, Food Chemistry . 2007, 104 (3): 955-961.

Huang W., Cai Y., Xing J., Corke H. and Sun M., Comparative analysis of bioactivities of four Polygonum species, Planta Medica. 2008, 74 (1): 43-49.

Huang W., Cai Y., Hyde K.D., Corke H. and Sun M., Endophytic fungi from Nerium oleander L (Apocynaceae): main constituents and antioxidant activity, World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 23 (9): 1253-1263.

Shan B., Cai Y., Brooks J.D. and Corke H., Antibacterial properties and major bioactive components of cinnamon stick (Cinnamomum burmannii): activity against foodborne pathogenic bacteria, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2007, 55 (14): 5484 -5490.

Researcher : Cartwright SR

List of Research Outputs

Williams G.A. and Cartwright S.R., Marine Ecology: Processes, systems and impacts, In: Michel Kaiser, Martin Attrill, Simon Jennings, David N. Thomas, David Barnes, Andrew Brierley, Nicholas Polunion, David Raffaelli, Peter B. Williams (Eds.), Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. Oxford University Press, 2007, 352: 268.

Researcher : Chan EKW

List of Research Outputs

Chan E.K.W., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Arthropod ‘rain’ into tropical streams: the importance of intact riparian forest and influences on fish diets., Marine & Freshwater Research. 2008, 59: 653-660.

Chan E.K.W., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Contribution of adult aquatic insects to riparian prey availability along tropical forest streams., Marine & Freshwater Research. 2007, 58: 725-732.

Chan E.K.W., Tung Y. .-.T., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Distribution patterns of birds and insect prey in a tropical riparian forest., Biotropica. 2008, 40: 623-629.

Researcher : Chan WO

List of Research Outputs

Chan W.O. and Pointing S.B., NASA Planetary Biology Internship, NASA Ames research Center, USA. 2008.

Researcher : Chao J

List of Research Outputs

Chao J., Yu M.S., Ho Y.S., Wang M. and Chang R.C.C., Dietary oxyresveratrol attenuates neurotoxicity induced by 6-hydroxydopamine in SH-SY5Y cells, Federation of European Neurosciences Societies Abstracts. 2007, 4: Poster 184.15.

Chao J., Yu M.S., Ho Y.S., Wang M. and Chang R.C.C., Dietary oxyresveratrol prevents 6-hydroxydopamine-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells, Third International Symposium on Healthy Aging: Improving the Health of an Aging Population, March 1-2, 2008, Hong Kong. 2008, 51 P11.

Zheng Z., Cheng K.W., Chao J., Wu J. and Wang M., Tyrosinase inhibitors from paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), In: , Food Chemistry . 2008, 106(2): 529-535.

Researcher : Chao J

List of Research Outputs

Zheng Z., Cheng K.W., Chao J., Wu J. and Wang M., Tyrosinase inhibitors from paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), In: , Food Chemistry . 2008, 106(2): 529-535.

Researcher : Chen G

List of Research Outputs

Chen G., Jiang Y. and Chen S.F., Variation of lipid class composition in Nitzschia laevis as a response to growth temperature change., Food Chemistry. 2008, 109: 88-94.

Researcher : Chen Q

List of Research Outputs

Xiao S., Chen Q., Gao W., Ramalingam S. and Chye M.L., Overexpression of membrane-associated acyl-CoA-binding protein ACBP1 enhances lead tolerance in Arabidopsis, Plant Journal. 2008, 54: 141-151.

Researcher : Chen SF

Project Title:	Transgenic chlamydomonas reinhardtii as an experimental system to study astaxanthin biosynthesis in green microalgae
Investigator(s):	Chen SF, Huang J
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To construct plasmids contianing single bkt ([beta]-carotene ketolase), and bhy ([beta]-carotene hydroxylase) under the control of a synthetic inducible promoter, and construct a bi-directional polar promoter for directing the expression of bkt and bhy; to introduce the gene bkt and/or bhy into C. reinhardtii; to investigate the expression of transgenes in C. reinhardtii; to study the molecular aspects of astaxanthin biosysthesis; and to investigate growth kinetics and productivity of astaxanthin of the Chlamydomonas mutants under photoautotrophic, mixotrophic and heterotrophic culture conditions.

Project Title:	Enhanced biosynthesis of astaxanthin in the green microalga Chlorella zofingiensis
Investigator(s):	Chen SF
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To investigate the biosynthesis of the ketocarotenoid astaxanthin in mixotrophic or heterotrophic culture of the microalga C. zofingiensis in which glucose and nitrate are manipulated to facilitate high-yield production of the pigment.

Project Title:	Molecular analyses of astaxanthin biosynthesis in green microalgae
Investigator(s):	Chen SF, Huang J
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

To isolate crtO and crtZ from H. pluvialis and C. zofingiensis; to characterize the crtO and crtZ; to functionally analyze the CRTO and CRTZ; to compare the regulation of crtO and crtZ and to analyze the pigment profile of the two microalgae.

Project Title:	Mechanism of biosynthesis of ketocarotenoids in green algae
Investigator(s):	Chen SF
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

Photosynthetic organisms including microalgae possess mechanisms to protect themselves against light-dependent oxidative damage. The xanthophylls cycle (the reversible interconversion of two carotenoids, violaxanthin and zeaxanthin) is one such mechanism that has a key photoprotective role. Some green algae (e.g., Haematococcus pluvialis, Chlorella zofingiensis etc.), are peculiar in that they accumulate significant quantities of astaxanthin when exposed to high light intensity or other unfavorable growth conditions. High expression of β-carotene oxygenase gene (crtO) and hydroxylase gene (crtZ), the two genes involved in astaxanthin biosynthesis, has been found to correlate to their tolerance in extreme environments. My laboratory has recently found that H. pluvialis contains at least three different crtO genes and two crtZ genes. The high expression of these multiple gene families is correlated to the high yield of astaxanthin in H. pluvialis. This prompts us to study the nature of crtO and crtZ in H. pluvialis, as well as in C. zofingiensis, another green microalga that can grow extremely fast with glucose as sole carbon and energy source but contains only moderate amounts of astaxanthin. By comparing the genes and their expression, the carotenogenic process, and pigment profiles of the algae, we expect to find out the factors that control the biosynthesis of ketocarotenoids in green microalgae. Following are the specific objectives of the proposed research:(1) to isolate β-carotene oxygenase (crtO) and hydroxylase genes (crtZ) from green microalgae;(2) to characterize the crtO and crtZ;(3) to clone and functionally analyze the cDNAs of CRTO and CRTZ;(4) to compare the regulations of crtO and crtZ between the two algae under different stress conditions; and(5) to analyze the pigment profiles of the green microalgae.In order to achieve the project objectives, the following issues need to be addressed:(1) How to isolate the crtO and crtZ from green mciroalgae such as C. zofingiensis?(2) How to analyze the functions of crtO and crtZ?(3) What methods can be employed to rapidly monitor the expression of crtO and crtZ? To answer these problems, effective methods should be used. The cDNAs of crtO and crtZ have been cloned from H. pluvialis, which involves screening a cDNA library with heterologous probes and using functional complement in an engineered E. coli that synthesizes β-carotene. Such methods, however, are labour intensive and only highly differentially expressed genes can be cloned. In the present proposal, the Familywalker strategy that is suitable for the rapid characterization of gene families will be adopted to clone the crtO and crtZ gene families from H. pluvialis and C. zofingiensis. Their corresponding cDNAs will be cloned by the RT-PCR method and analyzed with functional complement in engineered E. coli. With the cloned genes in hand, specific PCR primers can be designed. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR with the primers is an effective method to monitor the expression of crtO and crtZ. Alternatively, Northern blots may be used to monitor the expression of the genes.

Project Title:	Metabolic engineering for enhanced astaxanthin biosynthesis in Chlorella zofingiensis (Chlorophyta)
Investigator(s):	Chen SF, Huang J
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

To establish a chlorella transformation system; to introduce a heterologous carotenoid hydroxylase gene into C. zofingiensis; to study the regulation of astaxanthin biosynthesis in the engineered host; to maximize the production of astaxanthin in the genetically manipulated C. zofingiensis.

Project Title:	Assess the Potential for Toxic Compounds Generation in Food Processing Using Metabonomics
Investigator(s):	Chen SF, Li H
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	04/2007

Abstract:

Foodborne illness is increasing around the world in recent years. The report on unsafe foods, esp. in Hong Kong is thought to be frequent and many of these are relevant to microbial contaminants (i.e. Samonella), microbial toxins (i.e. aflatoxins produced by Aspergillus flavus), environmental contaminants (i.e. heavy metals), agrochemicals (i.e. pesticides and growth hormones) and even packaging components (i.e. phthalates). However, there are still many "hiden" sources of food contaminants which can lead to chronic foodborne illness but are always ignored or not yet identified. One of such substances is the by-product generated during cooking/processing procedures of foods. Acrylamide is the newly identified toxic substance generated during heat treatment of the food containing amino acid and reducing sugars and has been classified as carcinogen to human being (Mottram, Wedzicha & Dodson, 2002; Stadler et al, 2002). In addition to heat treatment, many other methods are generally adopted in food industry. During these treatment processes, i.e. irridiation and deep-frying, there is always the concern over the generation of toxic by-product from non-toxic food ingredients through series reactions. The safety of food is now an emerging issue to the public health. It is, therefore important to identify and analyze those toxic substances generated in the processed food from the thousands of compounds originated from raw materials and chemical reactions in processing steps within a short period. Metabonomics techniques offer a possible solution for the identification of overall compounds formed in cooking/processing of food in contrast to the raw food components. Metabonomics is the study of global metabolite profiles in a system (cell, tissue, or organism) under a given set of conditions. The ultimate aim of metabonomics is the identification and quantification of all small molecules in a biological sample, and to identify differences in metabolite profiles between samples (Sinha, 2005; Rischer & Oksman-Caldentey, 2006). Recently, the chromatographic techniques have been employed in metabonomic analysis in plant and microbial metabolite fingerprinting. The use of conventional HPLC-MS in metabonomics is relatively new and has proved to be efficient in terms of reduced spectral overlap and higher sensitivity (Wilson et al., 2005). Up to now, metabonomics methods have been successfully applied to the drug discovery, toxicology, phytochemistry, and clinical fields (Murch ea al, 2004). In this study, metabonomics will be used to identify the overall compounds generated in cooking/processing of food with the focus on toxic compound which is the threaten to public health.The objectives of the proposed research are:(1) to identify the overall compounds generated during food cooking/processing steps compared to the components in the raw materials with the focus on toxic compounds generated; (2) to study the generation mechanism of the toxic compounds;(3) to find out the factors affecting the formation of the toxic compounds.In order to achieve the above objectives, several issues need to be addressed:(1) How to identify the overall toxic compounds generated in food cooking/processing steps?(2) How are the toxic compounds generated?(3) Which factors affect the formation of the toxic compounds?To answer these questions, the effective methods should be used. HPLC-MS, GC-MS, GC-GC-MS and HPLC-HPLC-MS metabonomics will be used for identification and quantification of overall newly formed compounds in food cooking/processing steps. The most toxic compound will be selected for generation mechanism study. The most possible reactants will be selected from the raw food materials according to the principles of chemical reactions and the reaction process will be investigated. The phycical and chemical factors (i.e. temperature, pH) which will affect the reaction kinetics will also be studied at the same time. ReferencesMottram D.S., Wedzicha B.L., Dodson A.T. (2002). Acrylamide is formed in the Maillard reaction. Nature, 419: 448.Murch S.J., Rupasinghe H.P., Goodenowe D., Saxena P.K. (2004). A metabolomic analysis of medicinal diversity in Huang-qin (Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi) genotypes: discovery of novel compounds. Plant Cell Reports, 23: 419-425. Rischer H., Oksman-Caldentey K.M. (2006). Unintended effects in genetically modified crops: revealed by metabonomics? Trends in Biotechnology, 24: 102-104.Sinha G. (2005). Drug research - Trying to catch troublemakers with a metabolic profile. Science, 310: 965-966.Stadler R.H., Blank I., Varga N., Robert F., Hau J., Guy P.A., Robert M.C., Riediker S. (2002). Acrylamide from Maillard reaction products. Nature, 419: 449.Wilson I.D., Plumb R., Granger J., Major H., Williams R., Lenz E.M. (2005). HPLC-MS-based methods for the study of metabonomics. Journal of Chromatography B, 817: 67-76.

List of Research Outputs

Chen G., Jiang Y. and Chen S.F., Variation of lipid class composition in Nitzschia laevis as a response to growth temperature change., Food Chemistry. 2008, 109: 88-94.

Chen S.F., Biotechnological production of functional foods and nutraceuticals by microalgae, Programme and Abstracts of the 3rd Cross-Strait Symposium on Food and Biotechnology, 15 May 2008, Hong Kong. 2008, p. 33.

Chen S.F., Development of natural products and functional foods for disease prevention and treatment, Programmes and Abstracts of International Symposium - New Horizon in Nutrition and Public Health, 16-17 November 2007, Hong Kong (invited lecture). 2007, p. 13.

Chen S.F., HKU Outstanding Research Student Supervisor Award 2005-2006. 2008.

Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory effects of dietary phenolics on the formation of toxic substances in thermal processed foods, Programme Book of the 1st Annual Meeting of Joint US-Sino Food Safety Research Center, 12 May 2008, Shanghai. 2008, p. 1-3.

Chen S.F., Production of functional foods and nutraceuticals by microalgae, Programme Book of the International Conference on Functional Foods: New Concept and Innovation, 8 May 2008, Tainan, Taiwan. 2008, p. 1-9.

Chen S.F., The Open Food Science Journal, Bentham Science, 2007. 2007.

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Effects of dietary phenolics on the formation of mutagenic heterocyclic amines, IFT 2008 Annual Meeting + Food Expo. June 28-July 1, 2008, New Orleans, USA, poster. . 2008.

Cheng K.W., Wu W.L., Zheng Z., Peng X., Simon J.E., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory Effect of Fruit Extracts on the Formation of Heterocyclic Amines, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2007, 55(25): 10359-10365.

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory activities of dietary phenolic compounds on heterocyclic amine formation in both chemical model system and beef patties, Molecular Nutrition & Food Research. 2007, 51: 969-976.

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in natural product research. In: Colegate, S.M. & Molyneux, R.J. (eds), Bioactive Natural Products: Detection, Isolation and Structural Determination, 2nd edition, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL. 2008, 245-265.

Cheng K.W., Wang M., Chen S.F. and Ho C.T., Oligostilbenes from Gnetum species and antocarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory activities of oligostibenes, In: Chi-Tang Ho, James E. Simon, Fereidoon Shahidi and Yu Shao, ACS Symposium Series 987, Dietary Supplements. Washington, DC, American Chemical Society, 2008, 36-58.

Fan K.W., Fok L., Lee J.H.W. and Chen S.F., Epilithic diatom as a biological indicator for the assessment of water quality in the East River, Water Science & Technology: Water Supply. 2008, 7(2): 147-155.

Ho S.Y. and Chen S.F., Characterization and proteomic analysis of a polyunsaturated fatty acids producing fungus, Mortierella alpina, Abstracts of the 32nd FEBS Congress, 7-12 July, Vienna, Austria. 2007, p. 225.

Huang J.C., Liu J., Li Y. and Chen S.F., Isolation and characterization of the phytoene desaturase gene as a potential selective marker for genetic engineering of the astaxanthin-producing green alga Chlorella zofingiensis (Chlorophyta)., Journal of Phycology. 2008, 44: 684-690.

Li H., Wong C.C., Cheng K.W. and Chen S.F., Antioxidant properties in vitro and total phenolic contents in methanol extracts from medicinal plants. LWT, Food Science and Technology. 2008, 41: 385-390.

Li H. and Chen S.F., Application of high-speed countercurrent chromatography to the isolation of bioactive natural products. In: Colegate, S.M. & Molyneux, R.J. (eds), Bioactive Natural Products: Detection, Isolation and Structural Determination, 2nd edition, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL. 2008, p. 267-298.

Li Y.Q., Zhang X.W., Chen G., Wei D. and Chen S.F., Algal lectins for prevention of HIV transmission, Current Medicinal Chemistry. 2008, 15: 1096-1104.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen B., Ho C.T., Lo C.S.C., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Cinnamon Bark Proanthocyanidins as Reactive Carbonyl Scavengers To Prevent the Formation of Advanced Glycation Endproducts, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2008, 56(6): 1907-1911.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Evaluation of cinnamon bark phenolics as trapping agents for reactive carbonyl species to inhibit the formation of AGEs, IFT 2008 Annual Meeting + Food Expo. June 28-July 1, 2008, New Orleans, USA, poster.. 2008.

Peng X., Zheng Z., Cheung K.W., Shan F., Ren G.X., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory effect of mung bean extract and its constituents vitexin and isovitexin on the formation of advanced glycation endproducts , Food Chemistry. 2008, 106(2): 475-481.

Wong C.C., Wang Y., He Q., Chiu J.F. and Chen S.F., Anticancer activity of indioside d: insights from proteomic analysis, Abstracts of the 32nd FEBS Congress, 7-12 July, Vienna, Austria. 2007, p. 375.

Wong C.C., Wang Y., Cheng K.W., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Comparative proteomic analysis of indioside D-triggered cell death in HeLa cells, Journal of Proteome Research. 2008, 7: 2050-2058.

Wong C.C., Chiu J.F., He Q. and Chen S.F., Identification of serum glycoprotein biomarkers for diagnosis of anticancer activity of indioside d: insights from proteomic analysis, Abstract book of the CNHUPO 5th Annual Congress & the First Guangdong-Hong Kong Proteomics Forum, 20-22 August, Guangzhou. 2007, p. 42.

Wong C.C., Cheng K.W., He Q. and Chen S.F., Unraveling the molecular targets of natural products: Insights from genomic and proteomic analyses, Proteomics - Clinical Application. 2008, 2: 338-354.

Xu Y., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Proteomics approach to study the cytotoxicity of Tubeimoside I, Abstract book of the CNHUPO 5th Annual Congress & the First Guangdong-Hong Kong Proteomics Forum, 20-22 August, Guangzhou. 2007, p. 65.

Zhang X.W., Yap Y., Wei D., Chen G. and Chen S.F., Novel omics technologies in nutrition research , Biotechnology Advances. 2008, 26: 169-176.

Zhang Y., Wei D., Zhang X., Gao S., Wang M. and Chen S.F., Chemical Components and Antioxidant Activity of the Volatile Oil from Cassia tora L. Seed Prepared by Supercritical Fluid Extraction, Journal of Food Lipids. 2007, 14: 411-423.

Researcher : Cheng CY

List of Research Outputs

Yan H.H.N., Mruk D.D., Lee W.W.M. and Cheng C.Y., Blood-testis barrier dynamics are regulated by testosterone and cytokines via their differential effects on the kinetics of protein endocytosis and recycling in Sertoli cells. , FASEB J. 2008, 22: 1945-69.

Yan H.H.N., Mruk D.D. and Cheng C.Y., Junction restructuring and spermatogenesis: the biology, regulation, and implication in male contraceptive development, Curr Top Dev Biol. 2008, 80: 57-92.

Researcher : Cheng KW

List of Research Outputs

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Effects of dietary phenolics on the formation of mutagenic heterocyclic amines, IFT 2008 Annual Meeting + Food Expo. June 28-July 1, 2008, New Orleans, USA, poster. . 2008.

Cheng K.W., Wu W.L., Zheng Z., Peng X., Simon J.E., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory Effect of Fruit Extracts on the Formation of Heterocyclic Amines, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2007, 55(25): 10359-10365.

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory activities of dietary phenolic compounds on heterocyclic amine formation in both chemical model system and beef patties, Molecular Nutrition & Food Research. 2007, 51: 969-976.

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in natural product research. In: Colegate, S.M. & Molyneux, R.J. (eds), Bioactive Natural Products: Detection, Isolation and Structural Determination, 2nd edition, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL. 2008, 245-265.

Cheng K.W., Wang M., Chen S.F. and Ho C.T., Oligostilbenes from Gnetum species and antocarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory activities of oligostibenes, In: Chi-Tang Ho, James E. Simon, Fereidoon Shahidi and Yu Shao, ACS Symposium Series 987, Dietary Supplements. Washington, DC, American Chemical Society, 2008, 36-58.

Li H., Wong C.C., Cheng K.W. and Chen S.F., Antioxidant properties in vitro and total phenolic contents in methanol extracts from medicinal plants. LWT, Food Science and Technology. 2008, 41: 385-390.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen B., Ho C.T., Lo C.S.C., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Cinnamon Bark Proanthocyanidins as Reactive Carbonyl Scavengers To Prevent the Formation of Advanced Glycation Endproducts, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2008, 56(6): 1907-1911.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Evaluation of cinnamon bark phenolics as trapping agents for reactive carbonyl species to inhibit the formation of AGEs, IFT 2008 Annual Meeting + Food Expo. June 28-July 1, 2008, New Orleans, USA, poster.. 2008.

Wong C.C., Wang Y., Cheng K.W., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Comparative proteomic analysis of indioside D-triggered cell death in HeLa cells, Journal of Proteome Research. 2008, 7: 2050-2058.

Wong C.C., Cheng K.W., He Q. and Chen S.F., Unraveling the molecular targets of natural products: Insights from genomic and proteomic analyses, Proteomics - Clinical Application. 2008, 2: 338-354.

Wu J., Cheng K.W., Li E.T.S., Wang M. and Ye W.C., Antibrowning activity of MRPs in enzyme and fresh-cut apple slice models, Food Chemistry . 2008, 109(2): 379-385.

Zheng Z., Cheng K.W., Chao J., Wu J. and Wang M., Tyrosinase inhibitors from paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), In: , Food Chemistry . 2008, 106(2): 529-535.

Researcher : Cheng KW

List of Research Outputs

Wong C.C., Wang Y., Cheng K.W., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Comparative proteomic analysis of indioside D-triggered cell death in HeLa cells, Journal of Proteome Research. 2008, 7: 2050-2058.

Wu J., Cheng K.W., Li E.T.S., Wang M. and Ye W.C., Antibrowning activity of MRPs in enzyme and fresh-cut apple slice models, Food Chemistry . 2008, 109(2): 379-385.

Zheng Z., Cheng K.W., Chao J., Wu J. and Wang M., Tyrosinase inhibitors from paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), In: , Food Chemistry . 2008, 106(2): 529-535.

Researcher : Cheung KW

List of Research Outputs

Peng X., Zheng Z., Cheung K.W., Shan F., Ren G.X., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory effect of mung bean extract and its constituents vitexin and isovitexin on the formation of advanced glycation endproducts , Food Chemistry. 2008, 106(2): 475-481.

Researcher : Cheung WT

List of Research Outputs

Cheung W.T., Lee Y.F., Ng T.W., Ching W.K., Khoo U.S., Ng M.K.P. and Wong A.S.T., CpG/CpNpG motifs in the coding region are preferred sites for mutagenesis in the breast cancer susceptibility genes, FEBS Lett. 2007, 581(24): 4668-74.

Cheung W.T. and Wong A.S.T., GnRH receptor signaling in extrapituitary tissues, FEBS Journal. 2008, in press.

Cheung W.T., Leung P.C.K. and Wong A.S.T., Gonadotropin-releasing hormone activates Rac1 and Cdc42 GTPases via p120 catenin to promote the invasion of ovarian carcinoma cells, Annual Meeting of the Endocrine Society, San Francisco, CA (Abstract No. P3-89). 2008.

Park S.H., Cheung W.T., Wong A.S.T. and Leung P.C.K., Estrogen Regulates Snail and Slug in the Down-Regulation of E-Cadherin and Induces Metastatic Potential of Ovarian Cancer Cells through Estrogen Receptor a, Molecular Endocrinology. 2008, 22(9): 2085-2098.

Researcher : Cheung WT

List of Research Outputs

Cheung W.T. and Wong A.S.T., GnRH receptor signaling in extrapituitary tissues, FEBS Journal. 2008, in press.

Researcher : Ching HH

List of Research Outputs

Ching H.H., So H.H., Tse M.Y., Tam K.S. and Li E.T.S., Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Extract Induces Apoptosis in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes, Canadian Nutrition Congress, Winnipeg, June 2007.

Researcher : Chiu J

Project Title:	Biochemical and proteomic analyses of arsenic carcinogenesis
Investigator(s):	Chiu J, Leung SY, He Q
Department:	Institute of Molecular Biology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To establish and examine the processes of in vitro carcinogenesis induced by arsenic; to identify key elements of oxidative stress that involve in arsenic-induced cell transformation by biochemical and proteomic approaches; to determine which signaling pathway that mediates arsenic-induced cell transformation by proteomic approach.

List of Research Outputs

Xu Y., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Proteomics approach to study the cytotoxicity of Tubeimoside I, Abstract book of the CNHUPO 5th Annual Congress & the First Guangdong-Hong Kong Proteomics Forum, 20-22 August, Guangzhou. 2007, p. 65.

Researcher : Chow BKC

Project Title:	Regulation of the human secretin receptor gene
Investigator(s):	Chow BKC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To investigate the interactions of GC motifs within the core promoter region of the hSR gene with Sp1 and Sp3. In addition, the connections between the Sp proteins, cytosine methylation and methylation imprinting will also be studied to elucidate the epigenetic regulation of expression in the hSR gene.

Project Title:	Mapping of human secretin and its receptor gene expression in human cerebellum
Investigator(s):	Chow BKC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To demonstrate the presence of their transcripts in human cerebellum using real-time quantitative PCR and in situ hybridization, and the localization of secretin peptide by immunohistochemical staining and confocal microscopy.

Project Title:	A conditional knockout animal model for secretin
Investigator(s):	Chow BKC, Sham MH
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To develop an embryonic stem cell-line carrying the floxed secretin gene flanked by loxP sites; to generate secretin null mutant to investigate the physiology of a general secretin KO; to investigate the physiological effects of neuron-specific and Purkinje-specific secretin gene KO.

Project Title:	Molecular Evolution of Growth Hormone Releasing Hormone and Its Receptor in non-mammalian species
Investigator(s):	Chow BKC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

1) Clone and functionally characterize GHRH and its receptor from representative species of fish (zebrafish and/or goldfish), frog (Xenopus) and bird (chicken).2) Phylogenetic analyses to show the novel evolutionary scheme of GHRH and its receptor in vertebrates.3) Provide evidence to show that previously identified GHRHs are in fact only related peptides.Background:In mammals, GHRH is released from the arcuate nucleus via the axonal fibers to the hypophysial portal vessels, and is subsequently delivered to the anterior pituitary where it triggers synthesis and pulsatile release of GH through the GHRH receptor (GHRHR). In 1982, GHRH was isolated from human pancreatic islet tumors that caused acromegaly (4-5). A number of GHRH-like peptides have been characterized from various species, but, as shown in our phylogenetic study (Fig 1), they are more similar to mammalian PACAP-related peptides (PRP) rather than mammalian GHRHs. Moreover, the distributions of these GHRH-like peptides in brain are different when compared to mammalian GHRHs. Functionally, carp GHRH-like peptide cannot stimulate GH release in goldfish and carp pituitary cells. These clearly indicated to us that the "real" GHRHs have indeed never been characterized in non-mammalian species.Several non-mammalian vertebrate genomic databases were completely or partially released including avian [Gallus Gallus (Chicken)], amphibian [Xenopus T. (Africa clawed frog)) and fish [Danio rerio (Zebrafish); Takifugu rubripes (Fugu)]. In our bio-informatic analyses, we have identified genes that shared high homology with mammalian GHRHs (Figure 2) and their receptors (Figure 3). We propose here to characterize these genes and test their functions. Information obtained should be crucial to mankind as bird and fish are the most important protein sources in human diet, and this project is therefore potentially significant to raise food productivity in related agricultural species.

Project Title:	Secretin: a putative neurosecretory hormone that regulates water homeostasis in the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis
Investigator(s):	Chow BKC, Chan YS, Chung SK
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

To identity the functions of secretin in the hypothalamus and pituitary with a special focus on its potential modulatory role in vasopressin (Vp) synthesis and release; to substantiate the hypothesis that secretin is a neurosecretory hormone released from the posterior pituitary into the systemic circulation; to investigate the function of secretin as an antidiuretic hormone to regulate water reabsorption in the kidney.

Project Title:	A negative feedback loop involving bile acids and Small Heterodimer Partner in controlling secretin gene expression is a key to modulate bile release
Investigator(s):	Chow BKC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

(1) To substantiate the working model for regulating secretin gene expression by bile acids in mouse; (2) use secretin receptor WT and Ko mice to investigate 2a) in vivo functions of bile acids to negatively feeedback to control secretin gene expression: 2b) in vivo functions and cellular mechanisms of secretin in the liver to activate bile flow; (3) to investigate the potential of secretin to protect or prevent bile acids-induced liver damage.

List of Research Outputs

Chow B.K.C., Akira Arimura Young Investigator Award Lecture: 8th International Symposium on VIP, PACAP and related Peptides, Vermount, USA 2007. Secretin: a potential neurosecretory factor regulating body water homeostasis, 2007.

Chow B.K.C., Arimura Young Investigator Award, International VIP/PACAP society. 2007.

Chow B.K.C., General Comparative Endocrinology. 2007.

Chow B.K.C., International Journal of Biomedical Science. 2007.

Lam P.Y., Siu K.Y., Chu J.Y.S. and Chow B.K.C., Multiple actions of secretin in the human body, Int. Rev. Cytol.. 2008, 265: 159-190.

Siu K.Y., Lee T.O. and Chow B.K.C., Southwestern blotting in investigating transcriptional regulation, Nature Protocols. 2008, 3: 51-58.

Researcher : Chu H

List of Research Outputs

Chu H., Li L., Liu H. and Lo C.S.C., Identification of defense-related genes in sorghum responding to the challenge by Colletotrichum sublineolum, European Plant Science Organization "Plants for Life", Toulon, France. 2008.

Researcher : Chu JYS

List of Research Outputs

Lam P.Y., Siu K.Y., Chu J.Y.S. and Chow B.K.C., Multiple actions of secretin in the human body, Int. Rev. Cytol.. 2008, 265: 159-190.

Researcher : Chye ML

Project Title:	Production of fungus-resistant transgenic potato
Investigator(s):	Chye ML
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Areas of Excellence Scheme
Start Date:	03/2000

Abstract:

To produce fungus-resistant transgenic potato.

Project Title:	Functional analysis of novel arabidopsis ACBPs containing kelch motifs
Investigator(s):	Chye ML
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To establish the function of these novel ACBPs by investigating: (1) the function of their acyl-CoA binding domains in preferentially binding oleoyl-CoA. (2) the significance of their kelch motifs in mediating protein-protein interactions, to identify their protein partners which will further verify their roles in plant lipid metabolism.

Project Title:	Subcellular localization of three Arabidopsis ACBPs
Investigator(s):	Chye ML
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

To carry out the generation of GFP-tagged ACBP3, ACBP4 and ACBP5; to carry out the use of GFP-fusions for transient expression in onion epidermal cells and in agroinfiltrated tobacco leaves; to carry out the use of GFP- fusions for stable transformation of Arabidopsis follwed by western blot analysis on subcellular fractions.

Project Title:	Identification of Arabidopsis lead-binding proteins
Investigator(s):	Chye ML
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	10/2006

Abstract:

The objectives of this proposal are to investigate putative lead-binding proteins from the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana. It has been previously reported that two low molecular weight cytosolic proteins isolated from human kidney tissue have been observed to bind physiologic lead in vivo with high affinities. The two human proteins were identified as thymosin beta-4 of molecular mass 5-kDa and a 9-kDa acyl-CoA binding protein (Smith et al. 1998). Hence, these small proteins, known to be highly-conserved in mammals, are the suggested specific molecular targets for lead in environmentally-exposed humans (Smith et al., 1998). Unlike humans, the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana encodes, not just one, but a a family of acyl-CoA binding proteins (ACBPs). Each protein consists of a conserved acyl-CoA binding domain. My laboratory has isolated and characterized all six members in this family of ACBPs from the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana (Leung et al., 2004). We have found that other than the the low molecular weight Arabidopsis ACBP (~10 kDa) that is the homologue of the human 9-kDa lead-binding ACBP, there are five more forms of ACBPs in Arabidopsis. These Arabidopsis ACBPs can be further subdivided into four classes based on the presence of other domains besides the acyl-CoA binding domain. In contrast to the 10-kDa Arabidopsis ACBP, these five additional forms of ACBPs are high molecular weight proteins and have been previously investigated in my laboratory (Chye, 1990; Chye et al., 1999; .2000; Li and Chye, 2003; 2004; Leung et al, 2004: 2006). Arabidopsis ACBP1, ACBP2, ACBP3, ACBP4 and ACBP5 are 37.4, 38.5, 39.2, 73.1 and 71.0 kDa, respectively. ACBP1 and ACBP2 each contains ankyrin repeats while ACBP4 and ACBP5 each consists of five kelch motifs. Ankyrin repeats and kelch motifs are involved in protein-protein interactions, suggesting that these ACBPs interact with protein partners in vivo (Leung et al., 2004). Presence of an acyl-CoA binding domain in all six Arabidopsis ACBPs confers the ability in binding various acyl-CoA esters. Human 9-kDa ACBP exhibits 49% amino acid homology to Arabidopsis 10-kDa ACBP at the acyl-CoA binding domain. Such conservation lead us to hypothesize that the Arabidopsis 10-kDa ACBP, too, could bind lead like its human homolgue. Indeed, preliminary results from my laboratory have shown that recombinant Arabidopsis 10-kDa ACBP, expressed and purified from the bacterium Escherichia coli, does bind lead in vitro. The Arabidopsis protein was expressed as a recombinant His-tagged protein in E. coli to mass-produce and faciltate the purification of the 10-kDa His-tagged protein for tests in vitro bacause isolation of the native form from Arabidopsis would be technically more difficult. Hence, the objective of this proposal is to express the other five Arabidopsis ACBPs as recombinant ACBP1, ACBP2, ACBP3, ACBP4 and ACBP5 in E. coli to test if they will bind lead and to make a comparison of their abilities in vitro. To this end, each of these recombinant proteins will be extracted and subsequently purified from E. coli transformants before lead-binding assays can be conducted. The aim of this investigation is to identify the Arabiopsis ACBP from this six-member family that binds lead best. Results from this investigation would allow us to select the ACBP for subsequent investigations of its expression in transgenic plants for potential applications in phytoremediation. References : 1. Chye ML, 1998.Arabidopsis cDNA encoding a membrane-associated protein with an acyl-CoA binding domain. Plant Mol. Biol. 38: 827-838. 2. Chye ML, Huang BQ and Zee SY. 1999. Isolation of a gene encoding Arabidopsis membrane-associated acyl-CoA binding protein and immunolocalization of its gene product. Plant Journal 18: 205-214. 3. Chye ML, Li HY and Yung MH. 2000. Single amino acid substitutions at the acyl-CoA binding domain interrupt 14[C]palmitoyl-CoA binding of ACBP2, an Arabidopsis acyl-CoA binding protein with ankyrin-repeats. Plant Mol. Biol. 44: 711-721. 4. Li HY and Chye ML. 2003. Membrane localization of Arabidopsis acyl-CoA binding protein ACBP2. Plant Mol. Biol. 51: 483-492. 5. Li HY and Chye ML. 2004. Arabidopsis acyl-CoA binding protein ACBP2 interacts with an ethylene-responsive element binding protein AtEBP via its ankyrin repeats. Plant Mol. Biol. 54: 233-243. 6. Leung KC, Li HY, Mishra G, Chye, ML. 2004. ACBP4 and ACBP5, novel Arabidopsis acyl-CoA binding proteins wuth kelch motifs that bind oleoyl-CoA. Plant Mol. Biol. 56: 297-309. 7. Leung KC, Li HY, Xiao S, Tse MH and Chye ML. 2006. Arabidopsis ACBP3 is an extracellularly-targeted acyl-CoA binding protein. Planta 223: 871-881 8. Smith DR, Kahng MW, Quintanilla-Vega B and Fowler BA. 1998. High-affinity renal lead-binding proteins in environmentally-exposed humans, Chemico-Biological Interactions 115: 39-52.

List of Research Outputs

Chye M.L., Xu Z.F. and Sin S.F., Genetically modified plants expressing proteinase inhibitors SaPIN2a or SaPIN2b, and methods of use thereof for the inhibition of trypsin- and chymotrypsin-like activities, US Patent No. 7,256,327 issued Aug 14, 2007. 2007.

Chye M.L., Member (Editor), Planta Editorial Board, Planta (Springer-Verlag GmbH). 2007.

Chye M.L., Outstanding Researcher Award 2007, The University of Hong Kong, 2007.

Chye M.L., Potential use of an Arabidopsis metal-binding protein in engineering metal-tolerant crops, UGC-AoE Seminar Series 2007, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong. October 27, 2007. Invited talk, p.5. 2007.

Chye M.L., Teaching Isoprenoid Biochemistry: from the Classroom to the Living Room, In "Teaching Innovations in Lipid Science", (ISBN9780849373695) edited by R. Weselake, APCS/Taylor & Francis Group, London. 2007, Chapter 8: pp. 123-134.

Ubhayasekara W., Tang C.M., Ho S.W.T., Berlund G., Bergfors T., Chye M.L. and Mowbray S.L., Crystal structures of a family 19 chitinase from Brassica juncea show flexibility of binding cleft loops, Federation of European Biochemical Societies Journal. 2007, 274: 3695-3703.

Ubhayasekara W., Tang C.M., Rawat R., Ho S.W.T., Chye M.L. and Mowbray S.L., Involvement of loops in catalysis in family chitinases, 8th International Conference of the European Chitin Society [EUCHIS'07], Oral presentation session 9, 09-4, p. 39 September 8-11, 2007. Antalya, Turkey.

Xiao S., Li H. and Chye M.L., Autofluorescent-tagged Arabidopsis acyl-CoA binding proteins ACBP4 and ACBP5 are located in the cytosol, Proceedings of the 6th Cross-Strait Symposium on Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Hong Kong, July 2-8, 2007. p. 38. Invited talk. 2007.

Xiao S., Chen Q., Gao W., Ramalingam S. and Chye M.L., Overexpression of membrane-associated acyl-CoA-binding protein ACBP1 enhances lead tolerance in Arabidopsis, Plant Journal. 2008, 54: 141-151.

Xiao S. and Chye M.L., Phytoremediation, Innovation Expo 2007. September 14-18, 2007. HKU Pavilion: Dreams Unlimited. Energy and Environment Zone 5 Project 6. Exhibition organized by the Innovation and Technology Commission, Hall 1, Phase II, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai. 2007.

Xiao S. and Chye M.L., The Arabidopsis extracellular acyl-coenzyme-A-binding protein ACBP3 is involved in plant defense responses, International Conference on Biotic Plant Interactions, Brisbane March 27-29, 2008. www.uq.au/plants/icbpi/. 2008.

Xiao S. and Chye M.L., Arabidopsis acyl-coenzyme-A binding proteins - An overview, The 2nd Asian Symposium on Plant Lipids, Tokyo, Japan, November 29 to December 2, 2007. Session 4, p. 37. Invited talk.. 2007.

Researcher : Corke H

Project Title:	The diversity of cereal grain products in Hong Kong and southern China
Investigator(s):	Corke H
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Woo Ting Sang Agricultural Development Research Fund
Start Date:	01/1996

Abstract:

The cereal industry in this region is incredibly diverse. There is a vast expansion of diversity fueled by increasing consumer affluence in China, and by the need for convenience products. What attributes of the cereal grain raw materials are most relaated to quality of these products? What additives and modified starches will be in most demand in future? Without basic scientific analysis of products on the market, these questions cannot be answered.

Project Title:	Behavior of human incisor teeth in relation to sensory appreciation of texture
Investigator(s):	Corke H, Agrawal KR
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2005

Abstract:

Introduction People obtain great enjoyment from eating their food. The enjoyment of food is a sensory pleasure that is appreciated from the cradle to the grave. The first bite, which provides a chance for teeth to contact the food, plays a critical role for people to assess the class of food. The incisor teeth used to cut or incise foods are the main agent for biting off a piece of food or cutting into small pieces when necessary. The fundamental mechanical parameters include fracture stress and strain, yield stress, elastic modulus, Poisson’s ratio, coefficient of friction and fracture toughness, which associated with texture in food products, are used to describe the food material characterization. In contrast to mastication, the resistance of a food to an incisal bite will depend basically on the square root of two major food properties, Young’s modulus (elastic modulus) and fracture toughness. For many foods, the quantity should be approximately equal to the product of the stress cracking during a bite and the square root of the length of a notch or indentation from which this crack initiates (index). There are many different kinds of starch-based foods with special good taste and abundant nutrition in Asian. Millions of people in Asian prefer to choose starch-based foods for the major food of their meal as well. To develop an instrumental method predicting the sensory perception of the textural properties of Asian starch-based foods have important significant to meet the need of the consumer’s preference. The aims of this study are to establish the dental variables responsible for variation in the index, and apply the methodology to two food systems – a model system of starch gels with widely varying textural properties and an applied system using a range of noodle formulations. Via simple but fundamentally grounded experiments, applications to both dental and food industry practice can be established. Literature Review The acceptability of many classes of food to consumers is strongly influenced by expectations about food texture. Food texture is defined as “all the rheological and structural (geometric and surface) attributes of product perceptible by means of mechanical, tactile, and, where appropriate, visual and auditory receptors” (Lawless & Heymann, 1998). By this definition, food texture can be evaluated manually. There have been a large number of studies of incision by food scientists in relation to consumer preferences. Perceptions of fracture should be evaluated using teeth and the first bite with the incisors seems particularly critical in formulating opinions (Bourne, 2002). Mechanical elements are often simultaneously investigated by various instruments and then correlations are established between sensory terms and mechanical properties. Most analyses (Meullenet, 2002; Hylander, 1975) have centered on the correlation of psychophysical responses with the mechanical characteristics of foods obtained from tests made with universal testing machines. Significant correlations between a perceived food quality and a mechanical property do not imply a functional relationship. Materials must be homogeneous and isotropic, and be in a geometrical shape such that stresses and strains can be precisely calculated. If only a limited range of foods is offered, their mechanical properties would likely be correlated with each other (Ashby 1998). Any number of nonsensical conclusions might follow, which will only become apparent when predictions subsequently break down on a broader range of foods. However, food scientists have largely ignored the theory of fracture in their mechanical characterizations of starch-based food. There have been many more such studies on other foods, such as cheese, nuts, etc. Applying fracture mechanics, Vincent et al. (2002) found that the critical stress intensity factor, KIC, of foods, a parameter related to crack initiation, was linearly related to perceived measures of ‘hardness’ and ‘crunchiness’ as evaluated by trained ‘taste’ panelists. Vincent et al. suggested that mechanical characterizations of foods founded on sound theoretical support could replace the need for panels of this type since these are simpler and cheaper to run than taste panels and are free from cultural and linguistic limitations. The first bite has been instrumented before (Kohyama & Nishi 1997; Kohyama et al. 2001), but the use of the fracture theory and its potential for characterizing bite efficiency appears firmly linked to J.F.V. Vincent’s pioneering work. So applying the theory of fracture to the mechanical characterization of starch-based foods has very important significance.

Project Title:	Molecular markers for starch content and quality in rice
Investigator(s):	Corke H
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	11/2006

Abstract:

To develop gene-tagged markers and their integration into a genetic linkage map, and mapping OTL for starch content and quality (structural and functional properties); to sequence major genes, analysis of gene diversity and linkage disequilibrium, and association mapping of the genes in relation to starch content and quality; to develop a protocol for marker-assisted selection to most effectively simulate multiple components contributing to high starch contents and desired starch properties in Chinese rice breeding and therefore with direct applicability to economic development in China.

Project Title:	Effect of ozonation on physical properties and product performance of wheat flour
Investigator(s):	Corke H, Chan GKY, Phillips DL, Brooks JD
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Applied Research
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

Wheat flour usage in China is becoming much more diverse, expanding into Western-type products (e.g. donuts) which have to be made with Chinese raw materials and suited to local conditions and tastes. A particular problem is that Chinese food regulations prohibit the use of chlorination to treat fresh flour to accelerate maturity and improve handling properties of dough. In general, chlorination is becoming restricted worldwide due mainly to occupational safety concerns. Cake flour depends on chlorination for best quality, there is no viable alternative at present to achieve highest possible quality results.We aim to investigate the effect of ozonation on wheat flour physical properties, dough rheology and handling, and final product quality. Ozone can have several effects on wheat flour:1. Modification of starch viscosity after cooking2. Modification of protein properties (related especially to dough viscoelasticity)3. Denaturation of enzymes and reduction of microbiologcal loadIn combination, these will have unknown effects on the properties of key wheat flour products, i.e:1. Noodles - elasticity, shelflife of fresh noodles. Oil uptake of instant noodles.2. Donuts - oil uptake and organoleptic properties of donuts made with Chinese flour varieties3. Cakes - color and texture of confectionery grade cakes.4. Bread - loaf expnasion, crumb structure and texture of baked bread and steamed bread.We aim to develop a method for ozonation of flour, to develop a rapid method for measurement of the degree of ozonation (using FT Raman spectroscopy), and to measure the physical effects of the ozonation. Measurements of the effects will include standard dough testing methods (mixograph, controlled stress-strain rheology), starch viscosity methods (Rapid Visco-Analyzer), and microbial load.We will also test the flour in small scale or pilot manufacture of the specified products, and compare the results against benchmark standards for product using conventionally treated flour.The results will be publishable (a couple of papers on test methods and viscosity/ rheological measurements). But the main objective is to have a suite of techniques and skills, plus preliminary results, that will support a much larger in-depth study supported by the partner company through the Industry Department funding scheme.

List of Research Outputs

Bao J.S., Jin L., Xiao P., Shen S.Q., Sun M. and Corke H., Starch physicochemical properties and their associations with microsatellite alleles of starch-synthesizing genes in a rice RIL population. , JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY . 2008, 56: 1589-1594.

Cai Y., Sun M. and Corke H., Natural phenolic antioxidants from traditional medical herbs and dietary plants (Abstract), The Third International Symposium on Healthy Aging: Improving the Health of an Aging Population (Hong Kong). 2008.

Hu C., Cai Y., Li W.D., Corke H. and Kitts D.D., Anthocyanin characterization and bioactivity assessment of a dark blue grained wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Hedong Wumai) extract, Food Chemistry . 2007, 104 (3): 955-961.

Huang W., Cai Y., Xing J., Corke H. and Sun M., Comparative analysis of bioactivities of four Polygonum species, Planta Medica. 2008, 74 (1): 43-49.

Huang W., Cai Y., Hyde K.D., Corke H. and Sun M., Endophytic fungi from Nerium oleander L (Apocynaceae): main constituents and antioxidant activity, World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 23 (9): 1253-1263.

Shan B., Cai Y., Brooks J.D. and Corke H., Antibacterial properties and major bioactive components of cinnamon stick (Cinnamomum burmannii): activity against foodborne pathogenic bacteria, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2007, 55 (14): 5484 -5490.

Researcher : Corlett RT

Project Title:	Checklist of the vascular plant flora of Hong Kong
Investigator(s):	Corlett RT
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	09/1992

Abstract:

To produce an accurate checklist of the vascular plant species occurring in Hong Kong.

Project Title:	Conservation ranking of Hong Kong habitats
Investigator(s):	Corlett RT
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	01/1994

Abstract:

To establish an objective system for ranking terrestrial habitats in Hong Kong in terms of their conservation value.

Project Title:	The use of artificial fruits to assess variation in the probability of seed dispersal by birds
Investigator(s):	Corlett RT
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	07/2005

Abstract:

Seed dispersal by birds has a major influence on both plant persistence in forest fragments and forest recovery in deforested areas. A decade of research in Hong Kong has identified the major seed dispersal agents, but attempts to measure the spatial and temporal variation in fruit removal rates have been confounded by spatial and temporal variation in fruit characteristics and abundance. The aim of this project is to design a standard "artificial fruit" that can be used to compare frugivory rates between sites, microhabitats and seasons. Each fruit design will be tested with captive birds and under close observation in the field to assess if frugivore responses are similar to - or, at least, correlated with - their responses to natural wild fruits.

Project Title:	Global Climate Change and Ecosystem Responses
Investigator(s):	Corlett RT, Aitchison JC, Chen J, Dudgeon D, Fang HHP, Gu JD
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding for Strategic Research Theme
Start Date:	08/2005

Abstract:

The sub-theme will provide a framework to faciliatat inter-disciplinary collaboration within HKU. It will help to offset the dispersion of environmental interests across faculties and the limited intra-University communication. The research sub-theme will leverage HKU's existing research strengths in a variety of HKU departments including Civil Engineering, Earth Science, Ecology & Biodiversity, and Geography.

Project Title:	Ultraviolet signals for birds in Hong Kong forests
Investigator(s):	Corlett RT
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	07/2006

Abstract:

The visual systems of birds are very different from that of humans. All songbird species (Passerida) that have been tested have tetrachromatic vision, with a fourth cone cell type with maximum sensitivity in the near-UV (355-380 nm) and a visual spectrum spanning 320-700 nm (vs. 400-700 nm in humans). Recent research has shown the importance of UV signals in social life, foraging and predator avoidance, but we have only a fragmentary picture of the role of UV in the life of any one bird species. The aim of this project is to identify the UV signals in the environments of the three best-studied local songbird species, including signals from: other birds of the same species; other bird species with which they form winter flocks; potential foods (fruits, flowers and insects); potential predators; and the background against which these signals appear (leaves, bark, soil etc.). This information will then be used both to reinterpret existing data sets, particularly for diet and flocking behaviour, which were collected in ignorance of information transmitted in the UV spectrum, and in the planning of future studies of bird ecology in Hong Kong and elsewhere.

Project Title:	Fruit traits and seed dispersal in native and alien plants
Investigator(s):	Corlett RT
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	11/2006

Abstract:

To compare the fruit traits of native, naturalized, and cultivated alien plants in Hong Kong; to compare the rates of removal by native frugivores of these fruits; to test two predictions: that the fruit traits in those alien species that have become naturalized are more similar to those of the native flora than the fruit traits of aliens that have not become naturalized; and the native frugivores preferentially remove fruits of alien species with fruits traits similar to (or more attractive than) those of the native flora.

List of Research Outputs

Corlett R.T., Review of - Life after Logging: Reconciling Wildlife Conservation and Production Forestry in Indonesian Borneo, Conservation and Society. Bangalore, India, Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment, 2007, 5: 134-136.

Corlett R.T., Size matters: the functional extinction of large vertebrates in tropical forests, Annual Meeting of the Association for Tropical Biology and Conservation, Morelia, Mexico, 15-19 July, 2007 . 2007.

Corlett R.T., What's so special about Asian tropical forests?, Current Science. 2007, 93: 1551-1557.

Davidar P. and Corlett R.T., Asian biodiversity crises, Current Science. 2007, 93: 1466.

Lee E.W.S., Hau C.H. and Corlett R.T., Seed rain and natural regeneration in Lophostemon confertus plantations in Hong Kong, China, New Forests . 2008, 35: 119-130.

Sodhi N.S., Koh L.P., Peh K.S.H., Tan H.T.W., Chazdon R.L., Corlett R.T., Lee T.M., Colwell R.K., Brook B.W. and Bradshaw C.J.A., Correlates of extinction proneness in tropical angiosperms, Diversity and Distributions. UK, Blackwell, 2008, 14: 1-10.

Researcher : Dudgeon D

Project Title:	Latitudinal comparison of leaf litter breakdown in streams
Investigator(s):
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	09/2001

Abstract:

To determine the effects of leaf quality and characteristics on the breakdown of litter in streams in temperate Europe and tropical Asia, and to investigate the relative importance of aquatic invertebrates in litter processing in these two regions.

Project Title:	The conservation of freshwaters in tropical Asia
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	01/2002

Abstract:

To write a book setting out the conservation status of lake and river ecosystems in the oriental tropics, for publication by Backhuys Press in 2004.

Project Title:	First worldwide aquatic leaf decomposition experiment (WW-DECOEX)
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	01/2002

Abstract:

To understand the factors that influence leaf decomposition in streams of different lathitudes, particular the effects of varying leaf palatability to invertebrate shredders.

Project Title:	The ecology and biodiversity of Hong Kong
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D, Corlett RT
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	07/2002

Abstract:

To produce a revised edition of Dudgeon and Corlett (1994) "Hills and streams: an ecology of Hong Kong" for simultaneous publication in Chinese nd English.

Project Title:	Tropical stream ecology
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	01/2003

Abstract:

To produce a multi-authored volume focused on comparison of streams among tropical regions on a topic-by-topic basis; to summarise what is known by highlighting similarities among regions (particularly the ecological responses to a climatic backdrop of wet versus dry seasons, plus temperature close to the biological optimum), and to account for any consistent patterns of difference that emerge; to highlight what we do not know, and suggest ways of filling these knowledge gaps in a subsection of each chapter entitled 'future research directions and information needs'.

Project Title:	Conservation of freshwater biodiversity in Asia
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	06/2003

Abstract:

To write a book for discussing the issues and implications of damages and pollution causes by human beings.

Project Title:	*Scale-specific inter-population variation in the proteomics of Caridina* shrimps in Hong Kong**
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D, Chan LL
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To understand whether molecular differences revealed by RAPD are adaptations to local conditions, or merely a reflection of non-adaptive variation, we must study what proteins are actually present in each population.

Project Title:	Trophic flows across ecosystems and terrestrial-aquatic linkages
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D, Zhang Y
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

To study ecosystem functional connectivity of trophic flows across riparian forest and stream habitats; to examine the importance of cross-habitat reciprocal subsidies on both stream and riparian food webs.

Project Title:	An experimental trial of the feasibility of re-establishing of freshwater animals in Hong Kong streams
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	04/2006

Abstract:

The main objective of this seed grant proposal is to carry out a test of the feasibility of re-establishing self-sustaining populations of two species of freshwater animals to habitats where they have been eliminated by human impacts. If initial trials and post-release monitoring demonstrate that the approach is feasible, then funds to undertake larger-scale re-establishment of local species of conservation importance will be sought from CERG or the Environment and Conservation Fund (HKSAR Government).

Project Title:	Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in Hong Kong streams
Investigator(s):	Dudgeon D, Zhang Y
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

To establish the functional role of invertebrates associated with leaf litter; to test the relationship between shredder diverstiy and detritus processing rates along a gradient of stream characteristics; to determine the relationship between leaf quality, shredder diversity and detritus processing rates; field studies to determine the effects of changed flow regimes on shredder diversity and detritus processing rates; to use artificial stream channels to determine the effects of shredder diversity, changed flow regimes and water temperature on detritus processing rates; to establishment of the relationship between shredder diversity and detritus processing rates using field microcosms and laboratory experiments.

List of Research Outputs

Banks C.B., Lau M.Y.N. and Dudgeon D., Captive management and breeding of Romer’s tree frog Chirixalus romeri., International Zoo Yearbook. 2008, 42: 99-108.

Chan B.P.L., Dudgeon D. and Chen X., Threatened fishes of the world: Macropodus hongkongensis Freyhof and Herder, 2002 (Osphronemidae), Environmental Biology of Fishes. 2007, 81: 367-368.

Chan E.K.W., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Arthropod ‘rain’ into tropical streams: the importance of intact riparian forest and influences on fish diets., Marine & Freshwater Research. 2008, 59: 653-660.

Chan E.K.W., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Contribution of adult aquatic insects to riparian prey availability along tropical forest streams., Marine & Freshwater Research. 2007, 58: 725-732.

Chan E.K.W., Tung Y. .-.T., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Distribution patterns of birds and insect prey in a tropical riparian forest., Biotropica. 2008, 40: 623-629.

Dudgeon D., 10th International Riversymposium & Environmental Flows Conference 2007 (Brisbane, Australia): Going with the flow: conserving Asian riverine biodiversity in a warmer world - plenary lecture and invited panel discussant., 2007.

Dudgeon D., 3rd International Symposium on Riverine Landscapes 2007 (Gold Coast, Australia): Protection of aquatic biodiversity - invited Chairman of special workshop session. - invited Chairman of special workshop session. , 2007.

Dudgeon D., Associate Editor, Hydrobiologia (2002-present), 2007.

Dudgeon D., Award for Teaching Excellence, Faculty of Science, The University of Hong Kong. 2007.

Dudgeon D., Going with the flow: global warming and the challenge of sustaining river ecosystems in monsoonal Asia., Water Science and Technology (Water Supply). 2007, 7: 69-80.

Dudgeon D., International Symposium on Sustainable and Safe Water Supplies 2007 (Hong Kong): The ecological status of Asian rivers: implications for biodiversity conservation – invited speaker and discussant., 2007.

Dudgeon D., Member, Editorial Board of Aquatic Conservation: Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems (1998-present), 2007.

Dudgeon D., Member, Editorial Board of Freshwater Biology (2007-present), 2007.

Dudgeon D., Member, Editorial Board of International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Science (1995-present), 2007.

Dudgeon D., Member, Editorial Board of Limnology (2001-present), 2007.

Dudgeon D., Member, Editorial Panel of River Research and Applications (formerly Regulated Rivers: Research and Management) (1994-present), 2007.

Dudgeon D., Subject Editor, Biotropica (2001-2007), 2007.

Dudgeon D., Tropical Stream Ecology. Academic Press, London, 2008, 316 pp.

Lau C.P., Leung K.M.Y. and Dudgeon D., Experimental dietary manipulations for determining the relative importance of allochthonous and autochthonous food resources in tropical streams, Freshwater Biology. 2008, 53: 139-147.

Li O.Y. and Dudgeon D., Food resources of shredders and other benthic macroinvertebrates across a range of shading conditions in tropical Hong Kong streams., Freshwater Biology. 2008, 53: 2011-2025.

Wai T.C., Ng J.S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Dudgeon D. and Williams G.A., Coping with monsoonal climate change: the source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem., A Joint MMS Workshop on Marine Environmental Research, January 2008. . 2008, p.51.

Wai T.C., Ng S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Williams G.A. and Dudgeon D., The source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem, Limnology and Oceanography. 2008, 53: 1479-1492.

Researcher : El-Nezamy HS

List of Research Outputs

Halttunen T., Collado M.C., El-Nezamy H.S., Meriluoto J. and Salminen S., Combining strains of lactic acid bacteria may reduce their toxin and heavy metal removal efficiency from aqueous solution., Letters in Applied Microbiology . 2008, 46: 160-5.

Polychronaki N., West R.M., Turner P.C., Amra H., Abdel-Wahhab M., Mykkänen H. and El-Nezamy H.S., A longitudinal assessment of aflatoxin M1 excretion in breast milk of selected Egyptian mothers., Food and Chemical Toxicology . 2007, 45: 1210-5.

Polychronaki N., Wild C.P., Mykkänen H., Amra H., Abdel-Wahhab M., Sylla A., Diallo M., El-Nezamy H.S. and Turner P.C., Urinary biomarkers of aflatoxin exposure in young children from Egypt and Guinea., Food and Chemical Toxicology . 2008, 46: 519-26.

Turner P.C., Wu Q.K., Piekkola S., Gratz S., Mykkänen H. and El-Nezamy H.S., Lactobacillus rhamnosus strain GG restores alkaline phosphatase activity in differentiating Caco-2 cells dosed with the potent mycotoxin deoxynivalenol., Food and Chemical Toxicology . 2008, 46: 2118-23.

Researcher : Faan YW

List of Research Outputs

Faan Y.W., Yu M. and Tsang J.S.H., Blue-white selection of regulatory genes that affect the expression of dehalogenase IVa of Burkholderia cepacia MBA4, Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 76: 429-437.

Faan Y.W. and Tsang J.S.H., Expression of the dehalogenase of Burkholderia sp. MBA4 is affected by iron availability., FEBS Journal . 2007, 274 supplement 1: 223.

Tsang J.S.H., Yu M., Faan Y.W. and Chung Y.K.W., Isolation and characterization of a novel haloacid permease from Burkholderia cepacia., FEBS Journal. 2007, 274 supplement 1: 118.

Yu M., Faan Y.W., Chung Y.K.W. and Tsang J.S.H., Isolation and characterization of a novel haloacid permease from Burkholderia cepacia MBA4., Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 2007, 73: 4874-4880.

Researcher : Fan KW

List of Research Outputs

Fan K.W., Fok L., Lee J.H.W. and Chen S.F., Epilithic diatom as a biological indicator for the assessment of water quality in the East River, Water Science & Technology: Water Supply. 2008, 7(2): 147-155.

Researcher : Gao W

List of Research Outputs

Xiao S., Chen Q., Gao W., Ramalingam S. and Chye M.L., Overexpression of membrane-associated acyl-CoA-binding protein ACBP1 enhances lead tolerance in Arabidopsis, Plant Journal. 2008, 54: 141-151.

Researcher : Gu JD

Project Title:	Super genetic engineered bacterium and detoxification enzymes for bioremidiation
Investigator(s):	Gu JD
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Matching Fund for Hi-Tech Research and Development Program of China (863 Projects)
Start Date:	02/2004

Abstract:

To study super genetic engineered bacterium and detoxification enzymes for bioremidiation.

List of Research Outputs

Gu J.D., Effects of microbes on carbon fiber structural designs, IATA Aviation Fuel Forum. Athens, Greece, 2008.

Gu J.D., Environmental Geochemistry and Health. 2008.

Gu J.D., Environmentally acceptable biofuels and water – microbiological issues, IATA Aviation Fuel Forum. Athens, Greece, 2008.

Gu J.D., Microbial colonization of polymeric materials for space applications and mechanisms of biodeterioration: a review., International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation . Amsterdam, Elsevier, 2007, 59: 170-179.

Gu J.D., Microbial transformation of organic chemicals in natural environments: the fate of chemicals and the microbial involvement through enrichment culturing techniques, In: Q.Y. Huang, Mineral-Organic Matter-Microorganism Interactions. New York, Springer-Verlag, 2008, 175-198.

Li H., Gu J.D. and Sun H., Structure, topology and assembly of a 32-mer peptide corresponding to the loop 3 and transmembrane domain 4 of divalent metal transporter (DMT1) in membrane-mimetic environments, Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry . 2008, 102: 1257-1266.

Li J. and Gu J.D., Complete degradation of dimethyl isophthalate requires the biochemical cooperation between Klebsiella oxytoca Sc and Methylobacterium mesophilicum Sr isolated from wetland sediment., Science of the Total Environment. New York, Elsevier, 2007, 380: 181-187.

Xu X., Li H. and Gu J.D., Photocatalytic reduction of hexavalent chromium and degradation of di-n-butyl phthalate in aqueous TIO2 suspensions under ultraviolet light irradiation, Environmental Technology. Atlanta, USA, Green Industry Publishing, 2007, 28: 1055-1061.

Yu X., Gu J.D. and Liu S., Biotransformation and metabolic response of cyanide in weeping willows, Journal of Hazardous Materials . New York, Elsevier, 2007, 147: 838-844.

Yu X. and Gu J.D., Effect of available nitrogen on phytoavailability and bioaccumualtion of hexavalent and trivalent chromium in hankow willows (Salix matsudana Koidz), Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety. Elsevier, 2008, 70: 216-222.

Yu X. and Gu J.D., Metabolic responses of weeping willows to selenate and selenite, Environmental Science and Pollution Research. Germany, Ecomed Publisher, 2007, 14: 510-517.

Yu X. and Gu J.D., The role of EDTA in phytoextraction of hexavalent and trivalent chromium by two willow trees, Ecotoxicology . New York, Springer, 2008, 17: 143-152.

Zhao D., Zhu C., Sun S., Yu H., Zhang L., Pan W., Zhang X., Yu H., Gu J.D. and Cheng S., Toxicity of pharmaceutical wastewater on male reproductive system of Mus musculus, Toxicology and Industrial Health. Boston, Ebsco, 2007, 23: 47-54.

Researcher : Hau CH

Project Title:	Accelerating natural forest regeneration on degraded lands in Hong Kong
Investigator(s):	Hau CH, Corlett RT
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Research Initiation Programme
Start Date:	05/2002

Abstract:

To find out the effective ways to accelerate natural regeneration in exotic tree plantation; to find out what native trees and shrubs are best dispersed naturally into exotic tree plantations; to find out what nature trees and shrubs could grow well in exotic tree plantations.

List of Research Outputs

Hau C.H., Wetland Management and Development in a Changing World, Feather (Journal of the Wild Bird Federation of Taiwan). 2008, 228: 56-61.

Hau C.H., Wetland Management and Development in a Changing World, Taiwan Architect . 2008, 2008/02: 110-113.

Lee E.W.S., Hau C.H. and Corlett R.T., Seed rain and natural regeneration in Lophostemon confertus plantations in Hong Kong, China, New Forests . 2008, 35: 119-130.

Researcher : He M

List of Research Outputs

Jiang Q., He M., Wang X. and Wong A.O.L., Grass carp somatolactin: II. Pharmacological study on postreceptor signaling mechanisms for PACAP-induced somatolactin-{alpha} and -{beta} gene expression, American Journal Physiology Endocrinology Metabolism 2008 Aug. 2008, 295(2): E477-90.

Researcher : He Q

Project Title:	Proteomic approach to study metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Investigator(s):	He Q
Department:	Chemistry
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	06/2006

Abstract:

Background: Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is the fourth most common malignancy and still represents a great health concern in China. Most of the patients cannot survive more than one year after presenting at healthcare centers and the 5-year survival rate for ESCC remains as low as 10 percent or even less. One of the main reasons for the ominous phenomena is that neoplasms in esophagus are not detected until they have invaded the surrounding tissues or spread throughout the body (metastasis) at advanced stages. The early detection and diagnosis of esophageal malignancy is critical for its therapy and management. Tumor metastasis is the spread of cancer cells from the original site to other parts of the body. It is a very complex and multi-step process and often referred to as a cascade. The process of metastasis formation begins with some tumor cells breaking adhesions with neighboring cells and detaching from the primary tumor. Those cells then dissolve the extracellular matrix, migrate and invade surrounding tissues, and/or travel via the circulatory system, invade, survive and proliferate at distant new sites. Metastasis is by far the leading cause of death in cancer patients including ESCC, responsible for more than 90% of all cancer mortality. Lymph node metastasis is a strong and dominant prognostic aspect for ESCC. Lymphatic invasion represents a physiological predictor of lymph node metastasis in patients with ESCC and is a factor significantly influencing overall survival rate. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the lymphatic invasion of cancer cells in ESCC is still unclear. Several proteins such as HIF-1α and VEGF family have been individually studied and their expression was reported to correlate with the depth of tumor invasion, tumor stage, venous invasion, lymphatic invasion, and lymph node metastasis. However, there is still lacking systematic data showing the molecular factors and their interactions in the process of lymphatic metastasis of ESCC. Proteomics is a systematic research approach aiming to provide the global characterization of protein expression and function under given conditions. Proteomics provides an effective methodology to globally examine the different protein expressions and protein interactions in disease. Proteomic technology has been widely used in biomarker discovery, target identification and pathogenetic studies including tumor metastasis. We have used 2D-gel based proteomics to compare the protein profiles between ESCC tumor and matched surrounding tissues and to identify differently expressed proteins in the esophageal cancer. A number of tumor-associated proteins including SCCA1, transgelin, TPM, prohibitin, PRX, aB-Cryst and MnSOD was detected with altered expressions, corresponding to a complicated multi-step process involved in the initiation, formation and progression of esophageal carcinoma (Proteomics, 2005, 5:2960-2971). However, ESCC metastasis has not been investigated by proteomic approach up today. Objectives: The main objective of this proposal is to study ESCC metastasis by proteomic technology. Using our established 2DE-based proteomics, we plan to profile and compare the proteomes and sub-fractions extracted from cultured esophageal cancer cells with one bearing proved metastatic potential. We will systematically characterize the differently expressed proteins in metastatic cells and identify the molecular factors correlated to the tumor invasion and metastasis.

List of Research Outputs

Wong C.C., Wang Y., He Q., Chiu J.F. and Chen S.F., Anticancer activity of indioside d: insights from proteomic analysis, Abstracts of the 32nd FEBS Congress, 7-12 July, Vienna, Austria. 2007, p. 375.

Wong C.C., Wang Y., Cheng K.W., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Comparative proteomic analysis of indioside D-triggered cell death in HeLa cells, Journal of Proteome Research. 2008, 7: 2050-2058.

Wong C.C., Chiu J.F., He Q. and Chen S.F., Identification of serum glycoprotein biomarkers for diagnosis of anticancer activity of indioside d: insights from proteomic analysis, Abstract book of the CNHUPO 5th Annual Congress & the First Guangdong-Hong Kong Proteomics Forum, 20-22 August, Guangzhou. 2007, p. 42.

Wong C.C., Cheng K.W., He Q. and Chen S.F., Unraveling the molecular targets of natural products: Insights from genomic and proteomic analyses, Proteomics - Clinical Application. 2008, 2: 338-354.

Xu Y., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Proteomics approach to study the cytotoxicity of Tubeimoside I, Abstract book of the CNHUPO 5th Annual Congress & the First Guangdong-Hong Kong Proteomics Forum, 20-22 August, Guangzhou. 2007, p. 65.

Researcher : Ho SWT

List of Research Outputs

Ubhayasekara W., Tang C.M., Ho S.W.T., Berlund G., Bergfors T., Chye M.L. and Mowbray S.L., Crystal structures of a family 19 chitinase from Brassica juncea show flexibility of binding cleft loops, Federation of European Biochemical Societies Journal. 2007, 274: 3695-3703.

Ubhayasekara W., Tang C.M., Rawat R., Ho S.W.T., Chye M.L. and Mowbray S.L., Involvement of loops in catalysis in family chitinases, 8th International Conference of the European Chitin Society [EUCHIS'07], Oral presentation session 9, 09-4, p. 39 September 8-11, 2007. Antalya, Turkey.

Researcher : Ho SY

List of Research Outputs

Ho S.Y. and Chen S.F., Characterization and proteomic analysis of a polyunsaturated fatty acids producing fungus, Mortierella alpina, Abstracts of the 32nd FEBS Congress, 7-12 July, Vienna, Austria. 2007, p. 225.

Researcher : Huang W

List of Research Outputs

Huang W., Cai Y., Xing J., Corke H. and Sun M., Comparative analysis of bioactivities of four Polygonum species, Planta Medica. 2008, 74 (1): 43-49.

Huang W., Cai Y., Hyde K.D., Corke H. and Sun M., Endophytic fungi from Nerium oleander L (Apocynaceae): main constituents and antioxidant activity, World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 23 (9): 1253-1263.

Researcher : Hyde KD

Project Title:	A practical phylogeny-based approach for revision of the important pathogenic genus colletotrichum
Investigator(s):	Hyde KD, Liew ECY
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To create a preliminary multigene-based phylogeny of the genus Colletotrichum using nuclear and mitochondrial genomes, ribosomal DNA, [beta]-tubulin and TEF1 [alpha] genes; to determine the utility for phylogenetic inferences of single gene sequence data sets as compared to combined data sets at the generic level using colletotrichum species; to elucidate species concepts within the genus by linking molecular and morphological approaches.

Project Title:	Evolutionary relationships of loculoascomycetes (fungi) based on a multigene phylogenetic approach
Investigator(s):	Hyde KD, Jeewon R
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To verify whether Luttrell's hypothesis that loculoascomycetes are phylogentically distinct from unitunicate ascomycetes based on several genes; to assess the usefulness of different genes used in fungal molecular phylogenetics; to test the hypothesis that certain named anamorphic fungi are part of the life cycle of their associated telemorphs; to validate (or refute) the various current terms for morphological structures of fruiting bodies and interascal filaments,

Project Title:	World monograph of Guignarida and its anamorph Phyllosticta
Investigator(s):	Hyde KD, Jeewon R, Ho WH
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

Guignardia/Phyllosticta are specious genera including plant pathogenic fungi whose classification is primarily based on few morphological characters. Insufficient morphologies, physiological specialization, cultural variation and overlapping host ranges cause problems to plant pathologist in species identification. Previous rDNA sequence data have been inadequate to resolve species and generic relationships. To date, their taxonomy, especially species that occur as economically important plant pathogens, remains equivocal and poorly understood. This study will examine type species of these fungi and will eventually result in a world monograph. Fresh material of important pathogens and generic types will be obtained and where necessary epitypes with living ex-types designated. We will also re-evaluate phylogenetic relationships of these fungi aimed at redefining the morphological concepts using a morphological and molecular approach, the latter based on several genes (Beta Tubulin, Histone, Mitochondrial encoded genes, translation elongation factor). A small number of taxa will be studied in the initial research, however, a larger number of taxa possessing diverse morphologies will eventually be studied. Sequencing and cladistic analyses of several genes for deriving independent hypotheses of character homology, evolutionary rate of these genes and their impact on phylogenetic estimation will be considered. From a pathological point of view, the identification of DNA sequences that are highly specific to a plant pathogen will aid in the development of PCR-based diagnostic tools that are more sensitive and specific than the classical methods used to identify a pathogen. For instance, the translation elongation factor has successfully been used to classify species of Fusarium and is economically extremely important. Such developments will permit further improvement of crops and crop management practices. Objectives: 1. To re-examine all Guignardia/Phyllosticta species and where necessary designate a living epitype for important pathogens and generic types (the initial studies will deal with about 40 species). 2. To investigate the evolutionary relationships of Guignardia/Phyllosticta based on a multigene phylogenetic approach. 3. To assess the mode of evolution of several genes and the phylogenetic significance of specific morphological characters at generic, species and below species level. 4. To locate a specific gene sequence that can be used to distinguish between species in the genus. Introduction Guignardia (Viala and Ravaz, 1892) is a loculascomycetous genus and along with its anamorph Phyllosticta are widespread and important plant pathogens. The placement of Guignardia at the familial level is unresolved and the genus was placed in the Botryosphaeriaceae (Dothideales) by Kirk et al. (2001) and Mycosphaerellaceae, (Mycosphaerellales) by Eriksson (2005). Species of Guignardia have been recorded as endophytes, plant pathogens and saprobes (Raabe et al., 1981; Baayen et al., 2002; Glienke-Blanco et al., 2002). It may be that they are usually endophytes (asymptomatic inhabitants of living plants) but switch their lifestyle to pathogens when the plant becomes stressed or saprobes when the plant senesces. Furthermore, although Guignardia and Phyllosticta species are repeatedly isolated as endophytes from plants, it is not clear whether they comprise one or several taxa. The most notable work on Guignardia/Phyllosticta species have been carried out on pathogens. Guignardia baccae causes false black rot of grapevine, while G. citricarpa causes black spot of leaves and fruit of Citrus species and G. aesculi causes brown leaf mold of Horse Chestnut. The anamorph is also an equally important pathogenic genus: Phyllosticta ampelicida causes leaf spot of Ivy; Phyllosticta capitalensis causes leaf spots of orchid leaves; Phyllosticta sojicola causes leaf spot on soybean; and Phyllosticta vaccinii causes early rot of cranberry fruit. Both P. passifloramaculans and P. superficialis have been reported on Passiflora edulis in Brazil (Batista & Vital 1952, Mendes et al. 1998), but none of the three species reported on Passiflora spp. were accepted in the most recent revision of the genus (van der Aa & Vanev 2002). Species numbers in both genera are also problematic. The probable number of species in Guignardia is 40 species (Kirk et al., 2001), however more than 313 species epithets can be found in Index Fungorum (2005) of which 35 have been transferred to other genera. Similarly Phyllosticta probably has 46 species but there are 2885 epithets in the Index Fungorum. There is considerable taxonomic confusion in Guignardia and its anamorph Phyllosticta and because of their important as plant pathogens this confusion should be resolved. This study therefore aims to clarify the phylogenetic relationships and to contribute to the understanding of Guignardia and Phyllosticta species. In this study, the potential genomic sources of beta tubulin, histone, translation elongation factor and mitochondrial encoded genes (e.g. cytochrome B and mtSSU) will be explored. These genes provide sufficient genetic characters and are characterized by domains that evolve at appropriate rate that would be indispensable as genetic markers within and among closely related pathogenic species. We present a different perspective on the systematics of these asexual fungi by taking into account morphology, and by investigating the molecular evolution of these genes and their effects on phylogeny reconstruction. Problems pointed out by previous researchers in this field will be considered and our experiment will be moderated by careful choice of appropriate characters for use at different levels, adequate taxon sampling, and application of proper methods of analysis. With emphasis on molecular phylogenetic evidence from genes sharing different functions and origins, results will permit a more accurate re-evaluation of the phylogenetic significance of morphological characters; assess the modes and rates of evolution of molecular evolution of these genes; and help establish some anamorph-teleomorph connections as well as hypotheses of character evolution. This first part of the study will provide publishable results in high impact factor journals. A major long term component this study will be to re-examine all type material of species in Guignardia/Phyllosticta. The study will involve locating and borrowing material from international herbaria and making careful examination in the laboratory. This approach will allow a redefinition of species and generic concepts based on morphological examination and molecular analysis. In the case of important pathogens and generic types living material will be recollected from the type location and the same host. This living material will be isolated and cultures used from molecular work. Material will be designated an epitype where necessary and ex-types deposited in international culture collections as representative living species for future study. The eventaul outcome of this study will be a monograph of Guignardia/Phyllosticta.

Project Title:	Fungi on Eucalyptus species in Hong Kong and Thailand
Investigator(s):	Hyde KD, Jeewon R
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	04/2007

Abstract:

1. To study the biodiversity of fungi occurring on Eucalyptus species in China (Hong Kong) and Thailand. 2. To study ecology of fungi occurring on eucalyptus and the threats posed to forestry. 3. To study the adaptations of fungi occurring on Eucalyptus species in new environments (focusing on genetic variations of fungal pathogens on Eucalyptus species in China (Hong Kong) and Thailand; whether they are the same pathogenic species or are result from changes of lifestyle from endophytes or saprobes, or host jumps).

Researcher : Ip KM

List of Research Outputs

Law A.Y., Lai K.P., Ip K.M., Wong A.S.T., Wagner G.F. and Wong C.K., Epigenetic and HIF-1 regulation of stanniocalcin-2 expression in human cancer cells, Experimental Cell Research. 2008, 314: 1823-1830.

Researcher : Jeewon R

Project Title:	Molecular profiling and phylogenetic diversity of lichenised lithic cyanobacterial and fungal communities associated with limestone rocks.
Investigator(s):	Jeewon R, Hyde KD, Pointing SB
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

1. To document the total lichenised cyanobacterial and fungal genetic diversity from limestone rock substrates in Hong Kong and Thailand. 2. To investigate the possible evolutionary origins of those microorganisms and assess whether they represent distinct phylogenetic lineages. 3. To test the feasibility of PCR based methods and selective primers in detecting cyanobacteria and fungi from rocks samples.. 4. To identify non sporulating fungal species and cyanobacteria that cannot be grown on artificial media.

Researcher : Jiang P

List of Research Outputs

Jiang P., Ngai H.H.Y., Lee K.C.L., Sit W.H. and Wan J.M.F., Cellular proteome change over time induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells, 8^th World Congress on Inflammation, Denmark. 2007, P07.25.

Jin J., Jiang P., Sit W.H. and Wan J.M.F., Proteome analysis of the medicinal mushroom, Coriolus versicolor. XVI congress of the FESPB, Finland. 2008, P13-016.

Researcher : Jiang Q

List of Research Outputs

Jiang Q., Ko K.W., Lerner E.A., Chan K.M. and Wong A.O.L., Grass carp somatolactin: I. Evidence for PACAP induction of somatolactin-{alpha] and -{beta} gene expression via activation of pituitary PAC-I receptors, American Journal Physiology Endocrinology Metabolism 2008 Aug. 2008, 295(2): E463-76.

Jiang Q., He M., Wang X. and Wong A.O.L., Grass carp somatolactin: II. Pharmacological study on postreceptor signaling mechanisms for PACAP-induced somatolactin-{alpha} and -{beta} gene expression, American Journal Physiology Endocrinology Metabolism 2008 Aug. 2008, 295(2): E477-90.

Researcher : Jin J

List of Research Outputs

Jin J., Jiang P., Sit W.H. and Wan J.M.F., Proteome analysis of the medicinal mushroom, Coriolus versicolor. XVI congress of the FESPB, Finland. 2008, P13-016.

Researcher : Karraker NE

List of Research Outputs

Karraker N.E., A new method for estimating clutch sizes of ambystomatid salamanders and ranid frogs: Introducing the ovagram, Herpetological Review. 2007, 38: 46-48.

Karraker N.E., Are embryonic and larval green frogs (Rana clamitans) insensitive to road deicing salt?, Herpetological Conservation and Biology. 2007, 2: 35-41.

Karraker N.E., Gibbs J.P. and Vonesh J.R., Impacts of road de-icing salt on the demography of vernal pool-breeding amphibians, Ecological Applications. 2008, 18: 724-734.

Wheeler C.A., Karraker N.E., Welsh H.H. and Ollivier L.M., Diet of the Del Norte salamander (Plethodon elongatus): differences by age, gender, and season, Northwestern Naturalist. 2007, 88: 85-94.

Researcher : Ko KW

List of Research Outputs

Jiang Q., Ko K.W., Lerner E.A., Chan K.M. and Wong A.O.L., Grass carp somatolactin: I. Evidence for PACAP induction of somatolactin-{alpha] and -{beta} gene expression via activation of pituitary PAC-I receptors, American Journal Physiology Endocrinology Metabolism 2008 Aug. 2008, 295(2): E463-76.

Researcher : Kong KF

List of Research Outputs

Ho P., Kong K.F., Chan Y.H., Tsang J.S.H. and Wong J.T.Y., An unusual S-adenosylmethionine synthetase gene from dinoflagellates is methylated., BMC Molecular Biology. 2007, 8: 87.

Researcher : Kuang R

List of Research Outputs

Lung S.C., Leung A.S.P., Kuang R., Wang Y., Leung T.Y. and Lim B.L., The phytase secreted by tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) into root exudates is a purple acid phosphatase. , Phytochemistry. 2008, 69: 365-373.

Researcher : Kwan WY

List of Research Outputs

Kwan W.Y., Yeung H.Y. and Wong A.S.T., BRCA1 inactivation induces GRP78 expression and protects human breast and ovarian cancer cells against stress-induced apoptosis. , Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Reproduction, Hong Kong. p.34 (Abstract No. P-16) . 2007.

Kwan W.Y., Yeung H.Y., He Q., Lee A.S., Liu J. and Wong A.S.T., The unfolded protein response regulatory GRP78 is a novel target of BRCA1 for inhibiting stress-induced apoptosis, Annual Meeting of the American Association of Cancer Research, San Diego, CA. p. 212 (Abstract No. 1785) . 2008.

Researcher : Kwok HYA

List of Research Outputs

Kwok H.Y.A., Wang Y., Wang Y. and Leung F.C.C., Molecular cloning and characterization of chicken prostaglandin E receptor subtypes 2 and 4 (EP2 and EP4), General and Comparative Endocrinology. 2008, 157: 99-106.

Wang Y., Wang Y., Kwok H.Y.A. and Leung F.C.C., Identification of two novel chicken GHRH receptor splice variants: implications for the roles of aspartate 56 in the receptor activation and direct ligand–receptor interaction, Journal of Endocrinology. 2007, . 195: 525-536

Researcher : Kwok KPWH

List of Research Outputs

Kwok K.P.W.H., Bjørgesæter A., Leung K.M.Y., Lui G.C.S., Gray J.S., Shin P.K.S. and Lam P.K.S., Deriving site-specific sediment quality guidelines for Hong Kong marine environments using field-based species sensitivity distributions, Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 2008, 27: 226-234.

Researcher : Kwok WHKP

List of Research Outputs

Bao W., Leung K.M.Y., Kwok W.H.K.P., Zhang Q. and Lui C.S.G., Synergistic toxic effects of zinc pyrithione and copper to three marine species: implications on setting appropriate water quality criteria, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 616-623.

Kwok W.H.K.P., Leung K.M.Y., Bao W. and Lee J.S., Copper toxicity in the marine copepod Tigropus japonicus: Low variability and high reproducibility of repeated acute and life-cycle tests, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 632-636.

Raisuddin S., Kwok W.H.K.P., Leung K.M.Y., Schlenk D. and Lee J.S., The copepod Tigriopus: a promising marine model organism for ecotoxicology and environmental genomics, Aquatic Toxicology. 2007, 83: 161-173.

Zhang Q., Leung K.M.Y., Bao W., Kwok W.H.K.P. and Lam M.H.W., Toxicities of Irgarol 1051 and its major degradation product to marine primary producers, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 575-586.

Researcher : Lam PY

List of Research Outputs

Lam P.Y., Siu K.Y., Chu J.Y.S. and Chow B.K.C., Multiple actions of secretin in the human body, Int. Rev. Cytol.. 2008, 265: 159-190.

Researcher : Lau CP

List of Research Outputs

Lau C.P., Leung K.M.Y. and Dudgeon D., Experimental dietary manipulations for determining the relative importance of allochthonous and autochthonous food resources in tropical streams, Freshwater Biology. 2008, 53: 139-147.

Researcher : Lau CY

List of Research Outputs

Lau C.Y., Aitchison J.C. and Pointing S.B., Early colonization of thermal niches in a silica-depositing hot spring in central Tibet, Geobiology. 2007, DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-4669.2007.00124.x.

Lau C.Y. and Pointing S.B., Griffith University Visiting Fellowship for newly graduated doctoral students, Griffith University, Australia. 2008.

Researcher : Lee TO

Project Title:	Transcriptional regulation of a nasopharyngeal carcinoma tumor suppressor: RASSF1A
Investigator(s):	Lee TO, Chow BKC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To elucidate the basal transcription regulation mechanisms of RASSFIA in normal - RASSF1A-expressing and RASSF1A-non-expressing NPC cells; to fine map the core promoter region of RASSF1 gene; identify transcription factor(s) that regulates RASSF1A expression.

List of Research Outputs

Siu K.Y., Lee T.O. and Chow B.K.C., Southwestern blotting in investigating transcriptional regulation, Nature Protocols. 2008, 3: 51-58.

Researcher : Lee WWM

Project Title:	Analysis of the promoter sequence of rat and mouse testin
Investigator(s):	Lee WWM
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	The Population Council - General Award
Start Date:	07/1999

Abstract:

To analysis promoter sequence of rat and mouse testin.

Project Title:	Gas6 expression and tyrosine kinase phosphorlation in testicular cell lines
Investigator(s):	Lee WWM
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	The Population Council - General Award
Start Date:	08/1999

Abstract:

To study Gas6 expression and tyrosine kinase phosphorlation in testicular cell lines.

Project Title:	Induction of germ cell loss by a synthetic occludin peptide and its mechanism of action: an in vivo model to study cell junction formation in the testis
Investigator(s):	Lee WWM, Lui WY
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Incentive Award for RGC CERG Fundable But Not Funded Projects
Start Date:	07/2003

Abstract:

N/A

Project Title:	Testicular tight junctions: molecular architecture, ubiquitination and role of the extracellular matrix
Investigator(s):	Lee WWM
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

To identify the integral membrane proteins, scaffolding peripheral proteins, cytoplasmic proteases and protease inhibitors, and signaling molecules at the sites of TJs in the seminiferous epithelium; to characterize the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) and the signaling pathway utilized by TNF-α to regulate TJ dynamics in vitro and I>in vivo.

Project Title:	Interaction and ultrastructure of cell junction proteins in the testis
Investigator(s):	Lee WWM
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2006

Abstract:

(1) What are the functional and structural relationship between tight junctions and basal ectoplasmic specialization (ES) structural protein complexes at the blood-testis barrier (BTB) ? Are there any common adaptors that structurally and functionally link the cadherin/catenin/c-Src/MTMR2, the nectin/afadin/ponsin, and the TJ protein complexes together to regulate BTB dynamics? (2) What are the molecular composition of the laminin α(?)β(?)γ3 receptors and its associated peripheral proteins, which interact with α6β1 integrin at the apical ES?

Project Title:	The role of cytokines in blood-testis barrier dynamics
Investigator(s):	Lee WWM, Lui WY
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2007

Abstract:

Introduction: The blood-testis barrier (BTB) is located in the seminiferous epithelium near the basal lamina. It divides the epithelium into the basal and adluminal compartments to restrict diffusion of solutes across the paracellular space between Sertoli cells. It creates an immunological barrier and a unique microenvironment for spermatogenesis by sequestering post-meiotic germ cells from the systemic circulation, and a boundary between the apical and basolateral domains of Sertoli cells to confer cell polarity. Despite the importance of its barrier function, the BTB is highly dynamic in nature since it must dissolve [or disassemble] at stage VIII of the epithelial cycle to facilitate the passage of preleptotene spermatocytes across the barrier in adult rats. Without this, spermatogenesis cannot go to completion. At present, it is not entirely clear regarding the mechanism by which germ cells traverse the BTB. Our recent studies have indicated that cytokines, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) or transforming growth factor-β3 (TGF-β3) when administrated to adult rat testes at concentrations comparable to their endogenous intratesticular levels induce transient and reversible BTB disruption [1,2]. Since the expression of TNFα and TGF-β3 in the seminiferous epithelium is stage-specific, being highest at stages VII-VIII tubules in adult rat testes [2,3] it is envisaged that TNFα secreted by Sertoli and germ cells into the microenvironment at the BTB induces its “opening” to facilitate preleptotene spermatocyte migration that occurs at stage VIII of the epithelial cycle. Rationale: What is the mechanism by which TNFα induces transient TJ integral membrane protein loss at the BTB? We suggest herein two plausible mechanisms: (1) changes in kinetics of protein internalization and recycling and/or (2) changes in protein-protein interaction via an alteration of protein phosphorylation. These two mechanisms will be explored and they are the two objectives of this full proposal. The proposed experimental studies are outlined in Section VII. Objective 1: Endocytosis is widely used in epithelia to regulate TJ in which integral membrane proteins are “internalized”, which can be “recycled” back to the plasma membrane. However, no report is found in the literature if this mechanism is being used to regulate BTB dynamics except for a recent study that illustrates apical tubulobulbar complex (apical TBC) at the Sertoli-elongate spermatid interface may utilize this mechanism for spermiation. It is also not known if cytokines (e.g., TNFalpha) regulate TJ-integral membrane protein internalization and its recycling. As such, this possibility will be carefully evaluated by a full RGC research proposal to be submitted in November 2007. The study will be focused on occludin, one of the most extensively studied BTB integral membrane proteins in the testis [4,5] and will include claudin-3 and JAM-A, since emerging evidence has illustrated their importance at the BTB. This also ensures that if this mechanism is limited to occludin or being shared amongst TJ-proteins. Objective 2: To expand these studies, we will also identify the occludin-associated kinases and phosphatases by kinome profiling and peptide mass fingerprinting, and to define its putative phosphorylation and kinase recognition sites since little is known about occludin-associated kinases and phosphatases. This information will be helpful by designing inhibitor to block occludin function in future studies, thereby perturbing BTB integrity as an alternative approach for male contraception. Literatures cited: 1. Li MWM, Xia WL, Mruk DD, Wang Q, Yan HHN, Siu MKY, Lui WY, Lee WM and Cheng CY (2006) TNF can reversibly disrupt the blood-testis barrier (BTB) and impair Sertoli-germ cell adhesion – a novel mechanism to regulate junction dynamics during spermatogenesis. Journal of Endocrinology 190:313-329. 2. Xia WL, Mruk DD, Lee WM and Cheng CY (2006) Differential interactions between TGF-alpha3/TbetaR1 and adaptors TAB1 and CD2AP selectively disrupt blood-testis barrier and Sertoli-germ cell adhesion. Journal of Biological Chemistry 281:16799-16813. 3. Siu MKY, Lee WM and Cheng CY (2003) The interplay of collagen IV, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, gelatinase B (Matrix Metalloprotease-9), and tissue inhibitor of metalloprotease-1 in the basal lamina regulates Sertoli cell-tight junction dynamics in the rat testis. Endocrinology 144:371-387. 4. Lui WY and Lee WM (2005) cAMP perturbs inter-Sertoli tight junction permeability barrier in vitro via its effect on proteasome-sensitive ubiquitination of occludin. Journal of Cellular Physiology 203: 564-572. 5. Lui WY and Lee WM (2006) Transcriptional and post-translational regulations of cell-junction proteins in the testis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 250:25-35.

List of Research Outputs

Lui W.Y. and Lee W.W.M., Mechanisms of reorganization of cell-cell junctions in the testis, Frontiers in Bioscience. 2008, 13: 6775-6786.

Lui W.Y., Lie P.Y.P. and Lee W.W.M., Transcriptional control of JAM-A via the interaction nuclear factor-Y, nuclear factor-1, and GATA proteins with NF-Y motifs. , The 47th American Society of Cell Biology Annual Meeting. Dec 1-5 2007, Washington, DC, U.S.A. Abstract#346. 2007.

Lui W.Y. and Lee W.W.M., Ubiquitin system in male reproduction and its relevance to contraception, Current Medicinal Chemistry. 2008, 8: 14-19.

Sze K.L., Lui W.Y. and Lee W.W.M., Post-transcriptional regulation of CLMP mRNA is controlled by Tristetraprolin in response to TNFa via c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling, Biochemical Journal . 2008, 410: 575-583.

Wang Y., Lee W.W.M. and Lui W.Y., Combined effects of Elk-1/NRSF and TGIF/E2F regulate junctional adhesion molecule-B gene expression in mouse testicular cells. , 33rd FEBS Congress, June 28-July 3 2008, Athens, Greece. . 2008.

Wang Y., Lee W.W.M. and Lui W.Y., Regulation of JAM-B expression via an interplay of transcription factors of Elk-1, Sp, and E2F families in testicular cells. , The 47th American Society of Cell Biology Annual Meeting. Dec 1-5 2007, Washington, DC, U.S.A. Abstract#347. 2007.

Yan H.H.N., Mruk D.D., Lee W.W.M. and Cheng C.Y., Blood-testis barrier dynamics are regulated by testosterone and cytokines via their differential effects on the kinetics of protein endocytosis and recycling in Sertoli cells. , FASEB J. 2008, 22: 1945-69.

Researcher : Leung ASP

List of Research Outputs

Lung S.C., Leung A.S.P., Kuang R., Wang Y., Leung T.Y. and Lim B.L., The phytase secreted by tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) into root exudates is a purple acid phosphatase. , Phytochemistry. 2008, 69: 365-373.

Researcher : Leung FCC

Project Title:	Cloning of the viral genes from the newly identified SARS coronavirus
Investigator(s):	Leung FCC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	VCO SARS Research Fund
Start Date:	07/2003

Abstract:

To clone all the viral gene into vector and these cloned genes will be then be used as reagents by us and other as the first step for investigation.

Project Title:	Development of a rapid high throughput RT-PCR assay to detect SARS-CoV
Investigator(s):	Leung FCC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	VCO SARS Research Fund
Start Date:	07/2003

Abstract:

To develop a 96-wells RT-PCR platform assay for the detection of the coronavirus.

Project Title:	Molecular cloning of the chicken growth hormone receptor and the molecular characterization of the 5'-flanking region
Investigator(s):	Leung FCC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2003

Abstract:

To determine the molecular structure and nucleotide sequence of the chicken GHR gene and the multiple 5' UTR exon 1.

Project Title:	Isolation and characterization of a PCV2 virus causing postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in pigs
Investigator(s):	Leung FCC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To isolate and characterize the PCV2 virus that causes the Postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) in pigs.

Project Title:	Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus and apoptosis
Investigator(s):	Leung FCC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Research Fund for the Control of Infectious Diseases - Full Grants
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

The objective of this proposal is to determine and characterize the SARS coronavirus viral genes (S, M, N and E) induced apoptosis and to further identify and characterize the apoptosis epitopes.

Project Title:	Investigation of the occurrence of penicillium marneffei infections in wild rats in Hong Kong
Investigator(s):	Leung FCC, Hau CH
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Research Fund for the Control of Infectious Diseases - Mini Grants
Start Date:	09/2006

Abstract:

To determine the prevalence of Penicillium marneffei infections in wild rats in Hong Kong; to isolate the Penicillium marneffei from trapped wild rats internal organs (lung, liver, and spleen) from various parts of Hong Kong; to provide data whether bamboo rats exist in Hong Kong and whether they are infected P. marneffei and/or other wild rats species are infected P. Marneffei; to identify possible natural reservoir for P. marneffe.

Project Title:	Characterization of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptors from various animals and the use of pseudotyped virus to correlate the receptor-binding to susceptibility of SARS-CoV infection
Investigator(s):	Leung FCC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Research Fund for the Control of Infectious Diseases - Full Grants
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

To identify the susceptible animals to severe acute respiratory syndrome associated coronavirus SARS-CoV and SARS-like bat CoV through a molecular approach.

List of Research Outputs

Kwok H.Y.A., Wang Y., Wang Y. and Leung F.C.C., Molecular cloning and characterization of chicken prostaglandin E receptor subtypes 2 and 4 (EP2 and EP4), General and Comparative Endocrinology. 2008, 157: 99-106.

Wang Y., Wang Y., Kwok H.Y.A. and Leung F.C.C., Identification of two novel chicken GHRH receptor splice variants: implications for the roles of aspartate 56 in the receptor activation and direct ligand–receptor interaction, Journal of Endocrinology. 2007, . 195: 525-536

Wang Y., Fong P.Y., Leung F.C.C., Mak W. and Sham P.C., Increased gene coverage and Alu frequency in large linkage disequilibrium blocks of the human genome, Genetics and Molecular Research. 2007, 6: 1131-1141.

Researcher : Leung KMY

Project Title:	Aquatic ecological risk assessment: comparison of tropical and temperate species sensitivity to chemicals
Investigator(s):	Leung KMY
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	09/2002

Abstract:

To compare the species sensitivity distributions for temperate and tropical organisms exposed to individual chemicals; to identify specific chemical groups, classified by mode of action or physico-chemical properties, for which technically sound estimates of tropical PNECs can be made/predicted on the basis of temperate toxicity data; to validate these predictions through the generation/compilation of extensive ecotoxicity datasets for a number of model substances; to establish a procedure to estimate tropical PNECs for the selected substances. Existing data will be supplemented by new ecotoxicity data where these are likely to result in improved confidence in the estimation of tropical PNECs.

Project Title:	Ecology, physiology and toxicology of Stomatopoda in Hong Kong
Investigator(s):	Leung KMY
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	09/2002

Abstract:

To document the biodiversity of Stomatopoda in the subtital marine environment of Hong Kong; to study the population dynamics, ecology and physiology of five commercially important stomatopod species, Harpiosquilla harpax, Dictyosquilla foveolata, Miyakea nepa, Oratosquilla oratoria and Oratosquillina interrupta in the selected study locations; to investigate if there are any seasonally variations in the concentrations of pollutants such as heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in the tissues of these five stomatopod species; to test and establish the relationship between fitness parameters, physiological indices and pollution burdens in the stomatopods.

Project Title:	Fluctuating asymmetry of the Barnacle Tetraclita japonica: influences of shore levels and pollution
Investigator(s):	Leung KMY
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	01/2003

Abstract:

To determine fluctuating asymmetry (FA) of T. japonica based on the morphological characteristics of their scutum and tergum, with an estimation of measurement errors; to compare the level of FA of T. japonica collected from three different shore levels (low, mid and high) of two polluted sites and two clean sites; to test the relationship between the level of pollutants (e.g. heavy metals) and the degree of FA in T. japonica. The present results will enable us to identify the key factor(s), which affect the FA in T. japonica and answer whether or not FA can be used as a reliable pollution indicator.

Project Title:	Characterisation of metallothionein-like proteins in marine molluscs induced by metal and non-metal stressors
Investigator(s):	Leung KMY, Chan LL
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	12/2005

Abstract:

Research BackgroundMetallothioneins (MTs) are a group of low molecular weight, soluble, cysteine-rich and heat-stable proteins, which are induced by and bind a variety of trace metals such as Ag, Cd, Cu, Hg and Zn (Roesijadi 1992; Dallinger et al. 1997). They have important and unique roles in homeostasis of essential metals (e.g. Zn and Cu) and detoxification of toxic metals (e.g. Cd and Hg). Correspondingly, they have been proposed as potential biomarkers for metal contamination in the aquatic environment. Recently, the Working Group on Biological Effects of Contaminants (WGBEC) of the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) has recommended MT as one of the priority biomarkers (in fish and bivalve molluscs) for biomonitoring programmes at national or international level (ICES, 2003). Over the last five years, the PI has demonstrated that the concentration of total MTs is a good predictor of bioavailable fractions of Cu and Cd in the marine gastropods Littorina littorea and Nucella lapillus (Leung & Furness 1999a,b; Leung et al. 2001, in press), and the MT level in the molluscs is only moderately influenced by physical factors (e.g. salinity and temperature; Leung et al. 2000, Leung & Furness 2001a) and biotic factors (e.g. growth; Leung et al. 2001), making MTs as prospective biomarkers for metal contamination. Nevertheless, previous studies have showed that MTs and MT-like proteins (MTLPs) in common biomonitor species, such as bivalve and gastropod molluscs, can also be induced by exposure to other non-metal stressors such as oxidative or xenobiotic substances (Viarengo et al. 1999; Leung & Furness, 2001b). For instance, the freshwater fish, Carassius cuvieri exposed to violent air-pumping stress for 6 days exhibited time-dependent induction of two different isoforms of MTs (i.e. ccMT-1 and ccMT-2) in their livers and kidneys that might be associated with the release of endogenous factors, such as glucocorticoids (Muto et al. 1999). To date, however, characteristics and functions of MTs or MTLPs induced by non-metal stressors in molluscs are still poorly understood. Study ObjectivesThis study is, therefore, designed to investigate, for the first time, the characteristics and function of various MT-isoforms in the common biomonitors, Perna viridis (green lipped mussels) and Thais clavigera (rock shells) which are induced by exposure to non-metal stressors including oxidative substances (e.g. exposure to hydrogen peroxide) and xenobiotics (e.g. organotin compounds). These MT-isoforms will be characterised using advance proteomic techniques and compared to those induced by MT-inducing metals such as Cd, Cu and Zn. To test whether or not these non-metal induced MT-isoforms play significantly protective functions, i.e., serving as antioxidants, cellular biomarkers such as RNA/RNA ratio and activities of antioxidant enzymes will also be examined in these model organisms.Cited ReferencesDallinger R, Berger B, Hunziker P, Kägi JHR (1997). Metallothionein in snail Cd and Cu metabolism. Nature 388: 237-238. Leung KMY, Furness RW (1999). Effects of animal size on concentrations of metallothionein and metals in periwinkles Littorina littorea collected from the Firth of Clyde, Scotland. Marine Pollution Bulletin 39: 126-136. Leung KMY, Furness RW (1999). Induction of metallothionein in dogwhelk Nucella lapillus during and after exposure to cadmium. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety 43: 156-164. Leung KMY, Morgan IJ, Wu RSS, Lau TC, Svavarsson J, Furness RW (2001). Growth rate as a factor confounding the use of the dogwhelk Nucella lapillus as biomonitor of heavy metal contamination. Marine Ecology Progress Series 221: 145-159. Leung KMY, Taylor AC, Furness RW (2000). Temperature-dependent physiological responses of the dogwhelk Nucella lapillus to cadmium exposure. Journal of the Marine Biological Association of the United Kingdom 80: 647-660. Leung KMY, Furness RW (2001a). Survival, growth, metallothionein and glycogen levels of Nucella lapillus (L.) exposed to sub-chronic cadmium stress: the influence of nutritional state and prey type. Marine Environmental Research 52: 173-194. Leung KMY, Furness RW (2001b). Metallothionein induction and condition index of the dogwhelk Nucella lapillus exposed to cadmium and hydrogen peroxide. Chemoshpere 44: 321-325. Leung KMY, Svavarsson J, Crane M, Morritt D (2002). Influence of static and fluctuating salinity on cadmium uptake and metallothionein expression by the dogwhelk Nucella lapillus (L.). Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology 274(2): 175-189.Leung KMY, Dewhurst RW, Halldórsson H, Svavarsson J (2005). Metallothioneins and trace metals in the dogwhelk Nucella lapillus (L.) collected from Icelandic coasts. Marine Pollution Bulletin In press.Muto N, Ren HW, Hwang GS, Tominaga S, Itoh N, Tanaka K (1999). Induction of two major isoforms of metallothionein in crucian carp (Carassius cuvieri) by air-pumping stress, dexamethasone, and metals. Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology 122C: 75-82.Roesijadi G (1992). Metallothioneins in metal regulation and toxicity in aquatic animals. Aquatic Toxicology 22:81-114.Viarengo A, Burlando B, Cavaletto M, Marchi B, Ponzano E, Blasco J (1999). Role of metallothionein against oxidative stress in the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis. American Journal of Physiology R227: 1612-1619.

Project Title:	Characterisation of metallothioneins in marine mussels and gastropods induced by metal and non-metal stressors using proteomics
Investigator(s):	Leung KMY, Wang Y
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

To apply advance proteomic techniques to characterise various isoforms of metallothioneins (MTs) in the common biomonitors, Perna viridis (green lipped mussels) and Thais clavigera (rock shells) which are induced by exposure to non-metal stressors including oxidative substances (e.g. hydrogen peroxide) and xenobiotics (e.g. organotin compounds); to compare these non-metal induced MT isoforms with those induced by trace metals such as cadmium and copper based on their properties and amino acid sequences; to investigate the physiological properties (e.g. dose-response, half-life) of the non-metal induced MT isoforms in vivo in the laboratory and in the field.

List of Research Outputs

Bao W., Leung K.M.Y., Kwok W.H.K.P., Zhang Q. and Lui C.S.G., Synergistic toxic effects of zinc pyrithione and copper to three marine species: implications on setting appropriate water quality criteria, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 616-623.

Chan K.M., Leung K.M.Y., Cheung K.C., Wong M.H. and Qiu J.W., Seasonal changes in imposex and tissue burden of butyltin compounds in Thais clavigera populations along the coastal area of Mirs Bay, China, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 645-651.

Kwok K.P.W.H., Bjørgesæter A., Leung K.M.Y., Lui G.C.S., Gray J.S., Shin P.K.S. and Lam P.K.S., Deriving site-specific sediment quality guidelines for Hong Kong marine environments using field-based species sensitivity distributions, Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 2008, 27: 226-234.

Kwok W.H.K.P., Leung K.M.Y., Bao W. and Lee J.S., Copper toxicity in the marine copepod Tigropus japonicus: Low variability and high reproducibility of repeated acute and life-cycle tests, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 632-636.

Lau C.P., Leung K.M.Y. and Dudgeon D., Experimental dietary manipulations for determining the relative importance of allochthonous and autochthonous food resources in tropical streams, Freshwater Biology. 2008, 53: 139-147.

Lau M.C., Chan K.M., Leung K.M.Y., Luan T.G., Yang M.S. and Qiu J.W., Acute and chronic toxicities of tributyltin to various life stages of the marine polychaete Hydroides elegans, Chemosphere. 2007, 69: 135-144.

Leung K.M.Y., An integrated approach for diagnosis and assessment of ecological risks of toxic substances in aquatic ecosystems, The 12th Beijing Conference and Exhibition on Instrumental Analysis (Environmental Analysis), 18-21 October 2007, Beijing, China.. 2007.

Leung K.M.Y., Editorial Board Member, Marine Pollution Bulletin. Elsevier, 2008.

Leung K.M.Y., Furness R.W., Savavarsson J., Lau T.C. and Wu R.S.S., Field validation, in Scotland and Iceland, of the artificial mussel for monitoring trace metals in temperate seas, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 790-800.

Morritt D., Leung K.M.Y., De Pirro M., Yau C.S.T., Wai T.C. and Williams G.A., Responses of the limpet, Cellana grata (Gould 1859), to hypo-osmotic stress during simulated tropical, monsoon rains, Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. 2007, 352: 78-88.

Ng S.S., Lui K.Y., Lai C. and Leung K.M.Y., Harpiosquilla harpax (Crustacea, Stomatopoda) as a biomonitor for trace metal contamination in benthic sediments in Hong Kong waters, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2007, 54: 1523-1529.

Raisuddin S., Kwok W.H.K.P., Leung K.M.Y., Schlenk D. and Lee J.S., The copepod Tigriopus: a promising marine model organism for ecotoxicology and environmental genomics, Aquatic Toxicology. 2007, 83: 161-173.

Stauber J.L., Binet M.T., Boge J.A., Zhang Q., Bao W.W. and Leung K.M.Y., Comparison of the qwiklite algal bioluminescence bioassay with standard marine algal growth rate inhibition tests, The 13th International Symposium on Toxicity Assessment (ISTA), 19-24 August 2007, Toyama, Japan . 2007.

Wai T.C., Ng J.S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Dudgeon D. and Williams G.A., Coping with monsoonal climate change: the source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem., A Joint MMS Workshop on Marine Environmental Research, January 2008. . 2008, p.51.

Wai T.C., Ng S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Williams G.A. and Dudgeon D., The source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem, Limnology and Oceanography. 2008, 53: 1479-1492.

Zhang Q., Leung K.M.Y., Bao W., Kwok W.H.K.P. and Lam M.H.W., Toxicities of Irgarol 1051 and its major degradation product to marine primary producers, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 575-586.

Researcher : Li ETS

Project Title:	Nutritional benefits of dietary fiber supplementation in hospitalized geriatrics
Investigator(s):	Li ETS
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	09/1997

Abstract:

To improve gentle bowel fitness, relieve constipation and improve serum lipid profile of institutionalized geriatric patients via dietary fiber supplementation.

Project Title:	An evaluation on the antioxidant effects of Lycium barbarum L. and its supplementation on cataract formation in rats
Investigator(s):	Li ETS
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To systematically examine the antioxidant properties of Lycium barbarum L. and evaluate the effect of its supplementation on cataract development in rats.

Project Title:	Dietary bitter melon reduces adiposity and enhances insulin sensitivity: a role for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors?
Investigator(s):	Li ETS
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2003

Abstract:

Determine the effect of bitter melon supplementation on adiposity, glucose tolerance and endocrine profile of insulin resistant rats; determine the involvement of peroxisome proliferators-activated receptors and adipocyte-derived peptides; determine the involvement of sympathetic activity and uncoupling proteins from brown and white adipocytes, and skeletal muscle.

Project Title:	Anti-cataract effects of Lycium barbarum L and Momordica charantia
Investigator(s):	Li ETS
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2004

Abstract:

To systematically examine the antioxidant properties of Lycium barbarum L. and Momordica charantia and evaluate the effects of supplementation on cataract development in rats.

List of Research Outputs

Ching H.H., So H.H., Tse M.Y., Tam K.S. and Li E.T.S., Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Extract Induces Apoptosis in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes, Canadian Nutrition Congress, Winnipeg, June 2007.

So H.H., Tse M.Y., Chan L.Y. and Li E.T.S., Appetite suppressing effect of t10, c12 conjugated linoleic acid on mice is dependent on dietary fat level and the temporal pattern of energy intake is associated with changes in hypothalamic expression of genes involved in appetite control, Experimental Biology, Washington DC, April 2007.

So H.H., Tse M.Y. and Li E.T.S., Short-term effects of dietary t-10, c-12 conjugated linoleic acid on energy intake, and visfatin expression in mice fed low and high fat diets, Canadian Nutrition Congress, Winnipeg, June 2007.

Tam K.S., Wu J., Tse M.Y., Tam T.M., Wang M. and Li E.T.S., Bitter melon extracts suppressed differentiation and triglyceride content of 3T3-L1 adipocytes, Experimental Biology. San Diego, April 2008 . 2008.

Wu J., Cheng K.W., Li E.T.S., Wang M. and Ye W.C., Antibrowning activity of MRPs in enzyme and fresh-cut apple slice models, Food Chemistry . 2008, 109(2): 379-385.

Researcher : Li H

List of Research Outputs

Li H., Wong C.C., Cheng K.W. and Chen S.F., Antioxidant properties in vitro and total phenolic contents in methanol extracts from medicinal plants. LWT, Food Science and Technology. 2008, 41: 385-390.

Li H. and Chen S.F., Application of high-speed countercurrent chromatography to the isolation of bioactive natural products. In: Colegate, S.M. & Molyneux, R.J. (eds), Bioactive Natural Products: Detection, Isolation and Structural Determination, 2nd edition, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL. 2008, p. 267-298.

Xiao S., Li H. and Chye M.L., Autofluorescent-tagged Arabidopsis acyl-CoA binding proteins ACBP4 and ACBP5 are located in the cytosol, Proceedings of the 6th Cross-Strait Symposium on Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Hong Kong, July 2-8, 2007. p. 38. Invited talk. 2007.

Xu X., Li H. and Gu J.D., Photocatalytic reduction of hexavalent chromium and degradation of di-n-butyl phthalate in aqueous TIO2 suspensions under ultraviolet light irradiation, Environmental Technology. Atlanta, USA, Green Industry Publishing, 2007, 28: 1055-1061.

Researcher : Li H

Project Title:	Isolation and Purification of Antioxidants from Chinese Medicinal Herbs
Investigator(s):	Li H, Chen SF
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	10/2005

Abstract:

The oxidative damages caused by reactive oxygen species, such as superoxide radical, hydroxyl radicals and peroxyl radicals, on lipids, proteins and nucleic acids may trigger various chronic diseases such as coronary heart diseases, atherosclerosis, cancer and aging (Willett, 1991; Finkel & Holbrook, 2000). The health promoting effect of antioxidants from plants is thought to arise from their protective effects by counteracting reactive oxygen species. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated an inverse association between intake of antioxidants and mortality from age-related diseases such as coronary heart diseases and cancer (Gey, 1990; La Vecchia, 2001). Chinese medicinal herbs have been used to treat human diseases in China for centuries. People are becoming increasingly interested in Chinese medicinal herbs because of their low toxicity and good therapeutic performance. In recent years, studies on antioxidant activity of Chinese medicinal herbs have increased remarkably due to increased interest in their potential of being used as a rich and natural source for extracting antioxidant compounds (Liu & Ng, 2000; Ou et al, 2003; Cai, 2004; Tang et al, 2004). Chinese medicinal herbs contained a wide variety of natural antioxidants such as phenolic acids, flavonoids and tannins, which possess diverse biological activities such as promoting blood circulation, elevating immune function, anticancer and anti-aging (Cai, 1999; Shen, 2000). These activities may be related to their antioxidant activity (Chung et al, 1998; Yim & Ko, 2002). Our recent study showed that the stem of Polygonum multiflorum Thunb (Ye Jiao Teng) possessed very strong antioxidant activity, an even more potent antioxidant capacity (approximate 2 times) than its root (He Sou Wu), which is a famous Chinese medicinal herb that has been used as a tonic and an anti-aging agent (Wong, 2006). This result has been proved further by three different extract methods (boiling water, 80% methanol, and 50% ethanol) and three antioxidant evaluation methods (ferric reducing antioxidant power assay, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay, and Folin-Ciocalteu method) in our laboratory recently. With the assumption that antioxidant activity is the chief activity responsible for the health benefits of the root of P. multiflorum Thunb, the stem of this medicinal plant is therefore likely to possess greater health benefits than the root. Furthermore, the stem of P. multiflorum Thunb is available at a low cost and thus provides an economic source of natural antioxidants. However, no report on the antioxidant components of the stem of P. multiflorum Thunb could be found in the literature. Therefore, isolation and characterization of its individual antioxidant components is very interesting and important. The objectives of the proposed research are: (1) to find out antioxidant components in the stem of P. multiflorum Thunb; (2) to identify molecule structures of the compounds with antioxidant activity; (3) to establish a high-speed counter-current chromatographic method for the preparation of pure antioxidants from the crude extract of the stem of P. multiflorum Thunb. In order to achieve the objective, several issues need to be addressed: (1) How to isolate and purify antioxidant components in the herb? (2) How to identify molecule structures of the compounds with antioxidant activity? (3) How to prepare pure antioxidants from the crude extract of this herb? Findings from the proposed study will provide scientific basis for the better and wider use of this herb. It is hoped also that new antioxidant compounds might be found from the proposed study. References cited Cai YM, Ren YR, Wang L , Zhang GT (1999) Pharmacology and Clinical Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Huaxia Press, Beijing. Cai YZ, Luo Q, Sun M, Corke H (2004) Antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds of 112 Chinese medicinal plants associated with anticancer. Life Sci. 74: 21572184. Chung KT, Wong TY, Huang YW, Lin Y (1998) Tannins and human health: a review. Crit. Rev. Food Sci. Nutr. 38: 421–464. Finkel T, Holbrook NJ (2000) Oxidants, oxidative stress and the biology of ageing. Nature 408: 239247. Gey KF (1990) The antioxidant hypothesis of cardiovascular disease: epidemiology and mechanisms. Biochem. Soc. Trans.18: 1041 1045. La Vecchia C, Altieri A, Tavani A (2001) Vegetables, fruits, antioxidants and cancer: a review of Italian studies. Eur. J. Nutr. 40: 261267. Liu F, Ng TB (2000) Antioxidative and free radical scavenging activities of selected medicinal herbs. Life Sci. 66: 725735. Ou BX, Huang DJ, Hampsch-Woodill M (2003) When east meets west: the relationship between yin-yang and antioxidation-oxidation. FASEB J. 17: 127129. Shen YJ (2000) Pharmacology of Traditional Chinese Medicine. People' Health Press, Beijing. Tang SY, Whiteman M, Peng ZF, Jenner A, Yong EL, Halliwell B (2004) Characterization of antioxidant and antiglycation properties and isolation of active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicine. Free Radic. Biol. Med. 36: 15751587. Willett WC (1991) Micronutrients and cancer risk. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 53: 265S269S. Wong CC, Li HB, Cheng KW, Chen F (2006) A systematic survey of antioxidant activity of 30 Chinese medicinal plants using the ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. Food Chem. (In press, and available online from 14 July 2005). Yim TK, Ko KM (2002) Antioxidant and immunomodulatory activities of Chinese tonifying herbs. Pharm. Biol. 40: 329-335.

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Li H

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Li L

List of Research Outputs

Chu H., Li L., Liu H. and Lo C.S.C., Identification of defense-related genes in sorghum responding to the challenge by Colletotrichum sublineolum, European Plant Science Organization "Plants for Life", Toulon, France. 2008.

Researcher : Li OY

List of Research Outputs

Li O.Y. and Dudgeon D., Food resources of shredders and other benthic macroinvertebrates across a range of shading conditions in tropical Hong Kong streams., Freshwater Biology. 2008, 53: 2011-2025.

Researcher : Li Y

List of Research Outputs

Huang J.C., Liu J., Li Y. and Chen S.F., Isolation and characterization of the phytoene desaturase gene as a potential selective marker for genetic engineering of the astaxanthin-producing green alga Chlorella zofingiensis (Chlorophyta)., Journal of Phycology. 2008, 44: 684-690.

Researcher : Lie PYP

List of Research Outputs

Lui W.Y., Lie P.Y.P. and Lee W.W.M., Transcriptional control of JAM-A via the interaction nuclear factor-Y, nuclear factor-1, and GATA proteins with NF-Y motifs. , The 47th American Society of Cell Biology Annual Meeting. Dec 1-5 2007, Washington, DC, U.S.A. Abstract#346. 2007.

Researcher : Lim BL

Project Title:	Studies on Bacillus phytases
Investigator(s):
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	09/2000

Abstract:

To close the genes of Bacillus phytases; to overexpress Bacillus phytases and to characterize their biochemical properties; to carry out agricultural applications of Bacillus phytases.

Project Title:	Utilization of soil organic phosphorus by genetically modified plants
Investigator(s):	Lim BL
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To confirm whether the enhanced growth performance of the GM line is attributed to the utilization of soil IHIP by the secreted [beta]-propella phytase; to examine whether the GM plants have lower P requriement than the null lines and the wildtype; to examine whether the GM plants can utilized various salt forms of IHPs in soil. (Fe-phytate, Ca-phytate, Al-phytate); to examine the stability and the activity of the secreted phytase in soil ; to compare the abilities of 3 classes of phytases (BPP, HAP and PAP) in hydrolyzing IHP adsorbed to various soil components (A1, Fe and Ca precipitates, clays, etc); to examine the effects of organic acids (citrate, malate, oxalate) on the activities of the three classes of phytases (BPP, HAP and PAP); to create a phytase secreting Arabidopsis line that has elevated citrate acid secretion from root and compare its growth performance with the line that solely secretes phytase.

Project Title:	Expression and characterization of PAPs 10, 15 and 18 from Arabidopsis thaliana
Investigator(s):	Lim BL
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

For many years, plants have been regarded as incapable of assimilating phytate, the major form of organic phosphorus in soil, by their roots. Our recent data showed that wild type tobacco could grow normal in sand culture supplemented with magnesium phytate salts, but not in sand cultures supplemented with Na-phytate, Al-phytate and Mn-phytate. The results implied that plant roots could secrete an enzyme which can hydrolyze Mg-phytate and we postulate it as a member of purple acid phophatase. Genome analysis shows that there are 29 PAP-like genes in the whole genome of Arabidopsis. We carried out a phylogenetic analysis with 50 plant PAP a.a. sequences and grouped them into several subgroups. In this project, 3 representative Arabidopsis PAP genes (AtPAPs 10, 15 and 18) from each subgroups are selected for overexpression in a baculovirus expression system. The enzymes will be purified and their biochemical properties, including substrate specificities, Km, Kcat, pH and temperature profiles, will be studied. Since most of the reported PAPs did not exhibit phytase activity, we wish to verify whether one of these AtPAPs has phytate-hydrolyzing ability. This enzyme will have great potential in agriculture application. The recombinant proteins will also be used to raise specific antisera from rabbits. Our previous works detected phytase activity in plant growth media after growing the plant for 30 days. The activity was presumably secreted from the root. To identify the identity of the phytase secreted from plant root, specific antibodies will be used for western blotting studies and in enzyme inhibition assays.

Project Title:	Biochemical properties of a bacterial purple acid phosphatase from Burkholderia.
Investigator(s):	Lim BL, Wong KB
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	09/2006

Abstract:

Phytate is the richest organic phosphorus compound in soil. However, soil phytate is not directly available to plants. Several strains of Burkholderia sp. were found to associate with plant roots and were able to promote plant's ability to assimilate external phytate (Unno et al, 2005). Phytase activities were also detected from the culture media of these Burkholderia strains, indicating that they are able to excrete phytases. However, the identity of Burkholderia phytase was still obscure. To date, four classes of phytases have been classified based on their amino acid sequences and reaction mechanisms. They are histidine acid phosphatases (HAP), beta-propeller phytases (BPP), Selenomonas phytase and purple acid phosphatases (PAP). PAP sequences can be found in animals, plants and microbes. With a few exceptions, most of the animal and plant PAPs do not exhibit phytase activty. The whole genomes of several Burkholderia sp. have been sequenced. Among the four classes of known phytases, only a single PAP-like sequence can be identified in each Burkholderia genome. Therefore the phytase acitivity of Burkholderia sp. could either be arisen from this PAP-like gene or from a novel phytase family. In this project, it is our objective to overexpress this Burkholderia PAP and subsequently characterize its biochemical properties. Since no X-ray structure of bacterial PAP has been reported, it is also our objective to crystallize this protein and derive its 3D structure by X-ray analysis.

List of Research Outputs

Lim B.L. and Yip W.K., Recombinant Bacillus phytases and uses thereof , 7,339,091. 2008, 7,339,091.

Lung S.C., Leung A.S.P., Kuang R., Wang Y., Leung T.Y. and Lim B.L., The phytase secreted by tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) into root exudates is a purple acid phosphatase. , Phytochemistry. 2008, 69: 365-373.

Tung T.K., Cheng C.W. and Lim B.L., Stabilization of beta-propeller phytase by introducing Xaa→Pro and Gly→Ala substitutions at consensus positions. , Protein and Peptide Letter . 2008, 15: 297-299.

Researcher : Liu H

List of Research Outputs

Chu H., Li L., Liu H. and Lo C.S.C., Identification of defense-related genes in sorghum responding to the challenge by Colletotrichum sublineolum, European Plant Science Organization "Plants for Life", Toulon, France. 2008.

Researcher : Liu J

List of Research Outputs

Huang J.C., Liu J., Li Y. and Chen S.F., Isolation and characterization of the phytoene desaturase gene as a potential selective marker for genetic engineering of the astaxanthin-producing green alga Chlorella zofingiensis (Chlorophyta)., Journal of Phycology. 2008, 44: 684-690.

Researcher : Liu M

List of Research Outputs

Liu M. and Sadovy Y.J., Chapter 7: Grouper aquaculture in mainland China and Hong Kong., In: I.C. Liao, E. M. Leaño, The Aquaculture of Groupers. Asian Fisheries Society, Manila, Philippines, World Aquacult, 2008, 111-142.

Sadovy Y.J. and Liu M., Functional hermaphroditism in teleosts, In: Pitcher and Hart, Fish and Fisheries. 2008, 9: 1-43.

Researcher : Lo CSC

Project Title:	Identification of proteins targeted for degradation in Arabidopsis thaliana during disease resistance responses
Investigator(s):	Lo CSC, Lam E
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2003

Abstract:

To identify targets of Sgt1-mediated protein degradation pathways in Arabidopsis thaliana using the following two approaches; (1) Generation and characterization of 2000 transposon-assisted exon trap lines; (2) 2D-gel electrophoresis/MALDI-TOF based proteomics profiling of Sgt1mutants.

Project Title:	Functional characterization and metabolic engineering of flavonoid pathways in rice
Investigator(s):	Lo CSC, Lam E
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2004

Abstract:

To study: (1) functional characterization of 8 selected homologs of flavonoid structural genes in rice i) complementation of Arabidopsis tt mutants ii) generation and analysis of rice gene suppression mutants. (2) generation of transgenic rice with enhanced and/or novel flavonoid metabolites in endosperm.

Project Title:	Metabolic profiling and gene expression analysis of defense pathways in Sorghum bicolor
Investigator(s):	Lo CSC, Chu IK
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

To metabolic profiling of infected sorghum plants using LC-MS/MS; to identification of secondary metabolism genes in infected sorghum plants by subtractive hybridization.

Project Title:	Molecular dissection of the biosynthesis pathway for 3-deoxyanthocyanidins in Songhum
Investigator(s):	Lo CSC
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

(1) gene expression analysis of flavonoid genes in different sorghum cultivars during anthocyanin and 3-deoxyanthocyanidin biosynthesis; (2) complementation analysis of sorghum flavonoid genes in Arabiodopsis mutants; (3) enzymatic analysis of sorghum dihydroflavonol reductase recombinant proteins.

List of Research Outputs

Chu H., Li L., Liu H. and Lo C.S.C., Identification of defense-related genes in sorghum responding to the challenge by Colletotrichum sublineolum, European Plant Science Organization "Plants for Life", Toulon, France. 2008.

Lo C.S.C., Le Blanc J.C.Y., Yu K.Y., Sze K.H., Ng D.C.M. and Chu I.K., Detection, Characterization, and Quantification or Resveratrol Glycosides in Transgenic Arabidopsis Over-expressing a Sorghum Stibene Synthase Gene by Liquid Chromatography / Tandem Mass Spectrometry , Rapid Communications in Mass Spectrometry . 2007, 21: 4101-4108.

Lo C.S.C., Editorial Board Member, Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology. Elsevier, 2007.

Lo C.S.C. and Yu K.Y., Identification and characterization of stilbene derivatives in infected sorghum seedlings, Phytopathology. 2007, 97: S67.

Lo C.S.C. and Shih C.H., Quantitative analysis of anticancer 3-deoxyanthocyanidins in infected sorghum seedlings , Plant Biology and Botany 2007 Joint Congress, Chicago, USA. 2007.

Lo C.S.C., Senior Editor, Physiological and Molecular Plant Pathology. 2008.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen B., Ho C.T., Lo C.S.C., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Cinnamon Bark Proanthocyanidins as Reactive Carbonyl Scavengers To Prevent the Formation of Advanced Glycation Endproducts, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2008, 56(6): 1907-1911.

Shih C.H., Chen Y., Wang M., Chu I.K. and Lo C.S.C., Accumulation of isoflavone genistin in transgenic tomato plants overexpressing a soybean isoflavone synthase gene, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2008, 56: 5655-5661.

Tang L.K. and Lo C.S.C., Functional characterization of an anther-specific DFR gene in Arabidopsis thaliana, European Plant Science Organization "Plants for Life", Toulon, France. 2008, P074.

Yu K.Y., Shih C.H., Chu I.K. and Lo C.S.C., Accumulation of trans-piceid in sorghum seedlings infected with Colletotrichum sublineolum, Phytochemistry. 2007, 69: 700-706.

Researcher : Lui WY

Project Title:	Itch is a major ubiquitin E3 ligase in the testis: transcriptional regulation and possible role in the initiation of RNA polymerization
Investigator(s):	Lui WY, Lee WWM
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

To characterize the signaling pathway, trans-acting elements and cis-acting motifs involved in the cAMP-induced Itch gene expression; to identify the Itch-interacting proteins in Sertoli cells and germ cell nuclei and the functional role of Itch in ubiquitination and gene transcription.

Project Title:	Identification of subcellular and nuclear interacting partners of JAM-B and JAM-C
Investigator(s):	Lui WY
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2007

Abstract:

Junctional adhesion molecules (JAMs) are recently identified junction proteins belonging to an immunoglobulin subfamily that are expressed by epithelial and endothelial cells. Various studies have suggested that JAMs have crucial functions in the assembly of tight junctions (TJ) and adherens junctions (AJ), the regulation of cell polarity and the transmigration of lymphocytes. Such multiple roles played by JAMs are different from those of other classic transmembrane junction proteins such as occludin and nectin, that have restricted function on junction dynamics. So far, three JAMs, JAM-A, JAM-B and JAM-C, are positively identified in the testis. JAM-A, -B and -C show distinct localizations and functions in the testis. JAM-A is localized at the blood-testis barrier in the seminiferous epithelium and is associated with ZO-1. It is believed that JAM-A is involved in the formation of tight junctions between Sertoli cells. Different from JAM-A, JAM-B and JAM-C are localized at the adherens junctions between Sertoli cells and spermatids. JAM-B is found in the junctional plaques of Sertoli cells whilst JAM-C is expressed in germ cells at all developmental stages (dioploid premeiotic spermatocytes, round spermatids and elongate spermatids). JAM-C is also localized at the nucleus in undifferentiated germ cells such as premeiotic spermatocytes with yet-to-be identified function. As spermiogenesis proceeds, the localization of JAM-C becomes more confined to the junctional plaques in the spermatid head, suggesting that heterotypic interaction of JAM-B and JAM-C between Sertoli and germ cells is essential for Sertoli-germ cell communication and spermatid differentiation. Recent studies have indicated that JAM could interact with beta2 integrin in Jurkat T cells; and beta2 integrin is a transmembrane protein localized at the junctional plaques of Sertoli cells. In this connection, will transmembrane JAM-C in spermatid interacts with beta2 integrin or other transmembrane proteins in Sertoli cells? Does JAM-B in Sertoli cell interacts with transmembrane proteins (other than JAM-C in germ cells) to facilitate spermatid differentiation? In addition, what are the yet-to-be identified functions of JAM-C in the nucleus? Using gene targeting technique, inactivation of JAM-C in the testis blocks the recruitment of cell polarity complex (PAR6-Cdc42-PKC) at the anterior part of the spermatid head, resulting in the male infertility. These studies clearly illustrated that the proper association of peripheral junction proteins with the transmembrane protein is essential to maintain the integrity of cell junctions for spermatid differentiation. The peripheral junction proteins can also act as an adaptor to link the transmembrane proteins with the cytoskeleton, resulting in the regulation of junction dynamics. It is of interest to identify the peripheral proteins that interact with JAM-B and JAM-C and to unravel their roles in the regulation of junction dynamics between Sertoli and germ cells? To address these questions, we must (i) identify the subcellular interacting partners of JAM-B in Sertoli cells and JAM-C in germ cells at the site of cell-cell contacts; (ii) identify the interacting partners of JAM-C in the nuclei of germ cells, and (iii) investigate the functional significance of those interactions.

List of Research Outputs

Lui W.Y., Junction restructuring in the testis, National Institute for Basic Biology, Okazaki, Japan. 2008.

Lui W.Y. and Lee W.W.M., Mechanisms of reorganization of cell-cell junctions in the testis, Frontiers in Bioscience. 2008, 13: 6775-6786.

Lui W.Y., Selected to be included in Who's Who in Science and Engineering, Marquis Who's Who. 2008.

Lui W.Y. and Cheng C.Y., Transcription Regulation in Spermatogenesis, In: C. Yan Cheng, Molecular Mechanisms In Spermatogenesis. Landes Bioscience and Springer Science, 2008, 115-126.

Lui W.Y., Lie P.Y.P. and Lee W.W.M., Transcriptional control of JAM-A via the interaction nuclear factor-Y, nuclear factor-1, and GATA proteins with NF-Y motifs. , The 47th American Society of Cell Biology Annual Meeting. Dec 1-5 2007, Washington, DC, U.S.A. Abstract#346. 2007.

Lui W.Y. and Lee W.W.M., Ubiquitin system in male reproduction and its relevance to contraception, Current Medicinal Chemistry. 2008, 8: 14-19.

Sze K.L., Lui W.Y. and Lee W.W.M., Post-transcriptional regulation of CLMP mRNA is controlled by Tristetraprolin in response to TNFa via c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling, Biochemical Journal . 2008, 410: 575-583.

Sze K.L. and Lui W.Y., Transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of cell junction proteins in mammalian testis, Current Medicinal Chemistry. 2008, 8: 95-102.

Wang Y., Lee W.W.M. and Lui W.Y., Combined effects of Elk-1/NRSF and TGIF/E2F regulate junctional adhesion molecule-B gene expression in mouse testicular cells. , 33rd FEBS Congress, June 28-July 3 2008, Athens, Greece. . 2008.

Wang Y., Lee W.W.M. and Lui W.Y., Regulation of JAM-B expression via an interplay of transcription factors of Elk-1, Sp, and E2F families in testicular cells. , The 47th American Society of Cell Biology Annual Meeting. Dec 1-5 2007, Washington, DC, U.S.A. Abstract#347. 2007.

Researcher : Ma CY

Project Title:	Analysis of chemically modified non-starch polysaccharides by Raman spectroscopy
Investigator(s):	Ma CY
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To apply the technique of Raman spectroscopy for determining degrees of chemical modification in proteins, and extend the technique to study modified non-starch polysaccharides.

List of Research Outputs

Tang C.T. and Ma C.Y., Modulation of the thermal stability of b-lactoglobulin by transglutaminase treatment, European Food Research and Technology. Springer-Verlag, 2007, 225: 649-652.

Wang X.S., Tang C.H., Li B.S., Yang X.Q., Li L. and Ma C.Y., Effects of high-pressure treatment on some physicochemical and functional properties of soy protein isolates, Food Hydrocolloids. Elsevier, 2008, 22: 560-567.

Researcher : Ma J

List of Research Outputs

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen B., Ho C.T., Lo C.S.C., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Cinnamon Bark Proanthocyanidins as Reactive Carbonyl Scavengers To Prevent the Formation of Advanced Glycation Endproducts, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2008, 56(6): 1907-1911.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Evaluation of cinnamon bark phenolics as trapping agents for reactive carbonyl species to inhibit the formation of AGEs, IFT 2008 Annual Meeting + Food Expo. June 28-July 1, 2008, New Orleans, USA, poster.. 2008.

Researcher : Mruk DD

List of Research Outputs

Yan H.H.N., Mruk D.D., Lee W.W.M. and Cheng C.Y., Blood-testis barrier dynamics are regulated by testosterone and cytokines via their differential effects on the kinetics of protein endocytosis and recycling in Sertoli cells. , FASEB J. 2008, 22: 1945-69.

Yan H.H.N., Mruk D.D. and Cheng C.Y., Junction restructuring and spermatogenesis: the biology, regulation, and implication in male contraceptive development, Curr Top Dev Biol. 2008, 80: 57-92.

Researcher : Ng SS

List of Research Outputs

Wai T.C., Ng S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Williams G.A. and Dudgeon D., The source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem, Limnology and Oceanography. 2008, 53: 1479-1492.

Researcher : Peng X

List of Research Outputs

Cheng K.W., Wu W.L., Zheng Z., Peng X., Simon J.E., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory Effect of Fruit Extracts on the Formation of Heterocyclic Amines, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2007, 55(25): 10359-10365.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen B., Ho C.T., Lo C.S.C., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Cinnamon Bark Proanthocyanidins as Reactive Carbonyl Scavengers To Prevent the Formation of Advanced Glycation Endproducts, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2008, 56(6): 1907-1911.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Evaluation of cinnamon bark phenolics as trapping agents for reactive carbonyl species to inhibit the formation of AGEs, IFT 2008 Annual Meeting + Food Expo. June 28-July 1, 2008, New Orleans, USA, poster.. 2008.

Peng X., Zheng Z., Cheung K.W., Shan F., Ren G.X., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory effect of mung bean extract and its constituents vitexin and isovitexin on the formation of advanced glycation endproducts , Food Chemistry. 2008, 106(2): 475-481.

Researcher : Peng X

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Pointing SB

Project Title:	Molecular diversity and phylogeography of thermophilic communities within geothermal springs in southeast Asia and the contribution of adaptation and allopatry to diversity
Investigator(s):	Pointing SB
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2005

Abstract:

To assess molecular diversity of thermophilic microbial mat communities from geothermal locations across a broad biogeographical gradient of latitude and altitude at previously unstudied locations within southeast Asia (plus outgroups in Europe, Japan, New Zealand and the USA); to correlate molecular data with morphological, culture and mat fractionation data; to adopt a whole-community approach with the above that will target domain and dividision level diversity of bacteria and archaea, targeting multiple loci for structural and functional genes; to determine potential niche-determining physico-chemical and climatic conditions at the above geothermal sites and relate these through hierarchical cluster analysis to diversity data; to establish phylogenetic relationships between genotypes within and between communities, using data from several gene loci in order to understand community diversity at each location and phylogeographic relationships between locations; to understand the relative importance of adaptation and genetic drift (allopatry) in thermophilic communities through analysis of phylogenies and environmental factors.

Project Title:	Structure and role in substrate stabilization of biological soil crusts in China's deserts
Investigator(s):	Pointing SB
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

Objectives1. To establish the species composition of soil crusts in central China's deserts using a combination of environmental molecular and cultivation/microscopy approaches.2. To determine the extent of extracellular polysaccharide secretion by crusts and the effect on substrate stability.3. To use remote sensing and field data to understand the landscape ecology of soil crusts and correlate this with the origin of sandstorms. Key issuesChina currently has approximately 28% of its land mass categorized as desert by UNESCO and this figure has been expanding rapidly in recent decades due to environmental degradation. The effects are not only catastrophic at the ecological level but also significantly impact the living environment and prosperity of China as evidenced by the recent sandstorms in Beijing plus Ningxia, Shaanxi and Xinjiang provinces (April, 2006), caused by destabilization of desert soils in central-northern China and Mongolia. The existence of biological soil crusts, fast-growing fibrous microbial assemblages of cyanobacteria and fungi over the surface of desert soils is documented to have a direct link to stabilization of desert soils by virtue of their extracellular polymeric secretions, and so reduce erosion-related catastrophies as described above and pave the way for further succession by higher plants via stabilization and dinitrogen fixation. These crusts have been documented in desert soils of north America, the Middle East and Africa, yet China's deserts have been largely ignored despite being among the oldest, driest and largest on Earth. Additionally many earlier studies lack a molecular phylogenetic aspect, essential for a thorough appreciation of the taxa involved in soil crust formation and for future efforts to identify key species tolerant to extreme conditions and for use in environmental remediation efforts. These crusts are visible at a landscape scale and so also represent an ideal model with which to test hypotheses in the new and rapidly evolving field of microbial landscape ecology. Landscape ecology theories such as criticality and self-organized patchiness remain untested for microbial communities but are likely to be important factors in determining desert microbial communities. This allows a value-added aspect to the research. By using remote sensing data to establish the landscape ecology of crusts, it will be possible to generate data with applications for predicting stability of desert soils.

List of Research Outputs

Chan W.O. and Pointing S.B., NASA Planetary Biology Internship, NASA Ames research Center, USA. 2008.

Lau C.Y., Aitchison J.C. and Pointing S.B., Early colonization of thermal niches in a silica-depositing hot spring in central Tibet, Geobiology. 2007, DOI: 10.1111/j.1472-4669.2007.00124.x.

Lau C.Y. and Pointing S.B., Griffith University Visiting Fellowship for newly graduated doctoral students, Griffith University, Australia. 2008.

Researcher : Pon YL

List of Research Outputs

Pon Y.L., Zhou H. and Wong A.S.T., Epidermal growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor utilize divergent MAPK signaling pathways to synergistically enhance ovarian cancer, Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Reproduction, Hong Kong. p.18 (Abstract No. OR-04). 2007.

Pon Y.L. and Wong A.S.T., Gonadotropin and its role in the b-catenin/T-cell factor signaling pathway, Expert Rev. Endocrinol. Metab.. 2007, 2(3): 375-385.

Pon Y.L., Zhou H., Cheung A.N.Y., Ngan H.Y.S. and Wong A.S.T., p70 S6 kinase promotes epithelial to mesenchymal transition through Snail induction in ovarian cancer cells, Cancer Research. 2008, 68(16): 6524-6532.

Pon Y.L., Zhou H. and Wong A.S.T., p70S6K induces epithelial to mesenchymal transition in human ovarian cancer cells through upregulation of Snail, 14th European Cancer Conference, Barcelona, Spain. European Journal of Cancer (Suppl.), 5 (4), 316. 2007.

Zhou H., Pon Y.L. and Wong A.S.T., HGF/MET signaling in ovarian cancer, Current Molecular Medicine. 2008, in press.

Researcher : Pon YL

List of Research Outputs

Pon Y.L. and Wong A.S.T., Gonadotropin and its role in the b-catenin/T-cell factor signaling pathway, Expert Rev. Endocrinol. Metab.. 2007, 2(3): 375-385.

Zhou H., Pon Y.L. and Wong A.S.T., HGF/MET signaling in ovarian cancer, Current Molecular Medicine. 2008, in press.

Researcher : Rawat R

List of Research Outputs

Ubhayasekara W., Tang C.M., Rawat R., Ho S.W.T., Chye M.L. and Mowbray S.L., Involvement of loops in catalysis in family chitinases, 8th International Conference of the European Chitin Society [EUCHIS'07], Oral presentation session 9, 09-4, p. 39 September 8-11, 2007. Antalya, Turkey.

Researcher : Sadovy YJ

Project Title:	Male induction by social control in a protogynous grouper, Epinephelus coioides: a potentially new application for mariculture
Investigator(s):	Sadovy YJ, Liu M
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2004

Abstract:

To test the hypothesis that the number of juveniles in a social group influences the direction of sexual differentiation in Epinephelus coioides in captivity; to examine the pattern of gonadal development in Epinephelus coioides through detailed histology.

List of Research Outputs

Liu M. and Sadovy Y.J., Chapter 7: Grouper aquaculture in mainland China and Hong Kong., In: I.C. Liao, E. M. Leaño, The Aquaculture of Groupers. Asian Fisheries Society, Manila, Philippines, World Aquacult, 2008, 111-142.

Sadovy Y.J. and Liu M., Functional hermaphroditism in teleosts, In: Pitcher and Hart, Fish and Fisheries. 2008, 9: 1-43.

Sadovy Y.J., Reconciling fisheries with conserving biodiversity, In: J.L. Nielsen, J.J. Dodson, K. Friedland, T.R. Hamon, J. Musick, E. Verspoor, Reconciling fisheries with conservation: proceedings of the Fourth World Fisheries Congress. 2008, American Fisheries Society: 399-411.

Sale P.F., Butler M.J., Hooten A.J., Kritzer J.P., Lindeman K.C., Sadovy Y.J., Steneck R.S. and van Lavieren H., Stemming decline of the coastal ocean: rethinking environmental management, Hamilton, Canada, United Nations University-INWEH, 2008, 43.

Researcher : Saunders RMK

Project Title:	Reproductive biology of Bauhinia (Leguminosae: Caesalpinoideae) in Hong Kong
Investigator(s):
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	07/1997

Abstract:

A study of the reproductive biology of local Hong Kong species of Bauhinia, including studies of the pollination and breeding systems and attempted hybridizations.

Project Title:	Pollination ecology and breeding systems of selected species of annonaceae
Investigator(s):	Saunders RMK
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2002

Abstract:

To carry out : (a) detailed observations on phenology; (b) observations of pollinators; (c) clarification of the floral mechanism; (d) elucidation of the type of breeding system operating.

Project Title:	Scientific contributions to the internationally coordinated flora of Thailand project
Investigator(s):	Saunders RMK
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To cataloguing and describing the entire vascular plant flora of Thailand.

Project Title:	Taxonomic monographs of the angiosperm genera Mitrephora and Pseuduvaria (Annonaceae)
Investigator(s):	Saunders RMK
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2003

Abstract:

To combine classical and phylogenetic systematics with studies into the reproductive biology of selected species; to study (1) a detailed survey of morphological, ultrastructural and anatomical characteristics; (2) the analysis of patterns of variation in these characters, enabling the constuction of robust species-level classifications: (3) phylogenetic analyses of the data, enabling the reconstruction of past evolutionary events and a phylogenetic classification which includes supraspecific taxa; (4) an interpretation of the historical biogeography of both genera; and (5) studies of aspects of reproductive biology, including pollination systems and fruit/seed dispersal.

Project Title:	Preliminary descriptive and molecular systematics of Uvaria (Annonaceae) as a foundation for a combined morphological and molecular phylogenetics analysis of the genus
Investigator(s):	Saunders RMK, Su YCF
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2005

Abstract:

This project will not only involve the description of new species, but will also enable a more accurate understanding of structural homology. The present proposal also aims to assist in the selection of appropriate genes and intergenic regions for study, and provide preliminary data to assess their utility.

Project Title:	Phylogenetics as a unifying concept for the study of the comparative anatomy, systematics, historical biogeography and reproductive biology of the flowering plant genera Desmos and Dasymaschalon (Annonaceae)
Investigator(s):	Saunders RMK, Su YCF
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2005

Abstract:

Taxonomic monographs of the flowering plant genera Desmos and Dasymaschalon (Annonaceae) will be prepared. The monographs will include several main components, viz: detailed comparative studies of anatomy and ultrastructure; construction of robust species-level classifications based on morphological data; phylogenetic reconstructions using a combination of both morphological and molecular data; empirical studies of historical biogeography, using diverse cladistic and 'event-based' analytical methods; laboratory and field-based research into phenology, pollination ecology and breeding systems; and assessments of the conservation status of all species. Phylogenetic trees will be used as a unifying concept for clarifying structural homologies, defining supraspecific taxa, investigating patterns of historical biogeography, and understanding evolutionary changes in breeding systems.

Project Title:	*Systematics and phylogenetics of Uvaria* (Annonaceae) and related genera: an integrated morphological, molecular and ecological approach**
Investigator(s):	Saunders RMK, Su YCF
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2006

Abstract:

(1) analysis of morphology, ultrastructure and anatomy: delimitation of taxonomic characters and preliminary assessment of character homology (based on Uvaria species from western Malesia); (2) Development of a species-level classification of Uvaria species in western Malesia; (3) Gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis (selected Uvaria species); (4) analysis of phenology and reproductive biology (selected Uvaria species); (5) analysis of species conservation status (for Uvaria species from western Malesia)

List of Research Outputs

Govaerts R., Wilkin P. and Saunders R.M.K., World Checklist of Dioscoreales: Yams and their Allies. London, The Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, 2007.

Ratnayake R.M.C.S., Gunatilleke I.A.U.N., Wijesundara D.S.A. and Saunders R.M.K., Pollination ecology and breeding system of Xylopia championii (Annonaceae): curculionid beetle pollination, promoted by floral scents and elevated floral temperatures, International Journal of Plant Sciences. 2007, 168: 1255-1268.

Saunders R.M.K. and Munzinger J., A new species of Goniothalamus (Annonaceae) from New Caledonia, representing a significant range extension for the genus, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society. 2007, 155: 497-503.

Saunders R.M.K. and Chalermglin P., A synopsis of Goniothalamus species (Annonaceae) in Thailand, with descriptions of three new species, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society. 2008, 156: 355-384.

Saunders R.M.K., Associate Editor, , Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society. 2007.

Saunders R.M.K., Associate Editor, , Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society. 2008.

Saunders R.M.K., Member of editorial board, Thai Forest Bulletin. 2007.

Saunders R.M.K., Systematics, phylogenetics and pollination ecology of the Annonaceae, University of Uppsala, Sweden, Invited lecture, 17 April 2008. 2008.

Su Y.C.F., Smith G.J. and Saunders R.M.K., Phylogeny of the basal angiosperm genus Pseuduvaria (Annonaceae) inferred from five chloroplast DNA regions, with interpretation of morphological character evolution., Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution. 2008, 48: 188-206.

Researcher : Shan B

List of Research Outputs

Shan B., Cai Y., Brooks J.D. and Corke H., Antibacterial properties and major bioactive components of cinnamon stick (Cinnamomum burmannii): activity against foodborne pathogenic bacteria, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2007, 55 (14): 5484 -5490.

Researcher : Shih CH

List of Research Outputs

Lo C.S.C. and Shih C.H., Quantitative analysis of anticancer 3-deoxyanthocyanidins in infected sorghum seedlings , Plant Biology and Botany 2007 Joint Congress, Chicago, USA. 2007.

Shih C.H., Chen Y., Wang M., Chu I.K. and Lo C.S.C., Accumulation of isoflavone genistin in transgenic tomato plants overexpressing a soybean isoflavone synthase gene, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2008, 56: 5655-5661.

Yu K.Y., Shih C.H., Chu I.K. and Lo C.S.C., Accumulation of trans-piceid in sorghum seedlings infected with Colletotrichum sublineolum, Phytochemistry. 2007, 69: 700-706.

Researcher : Shih CH

List of Research Outputs

Lo C.S.C. and Shih C.H., Quantitative analysis of anticancer 3-deoxyanthocyanidins in infected sorghum seedlings , Plant Biology and Botany 2007 Joint Congress, Chicago, USA. 2007.

Yu K.Y., Shih C.H., Chu I.K. and Lo C.S.C., Accumulation of trans-piceid in sorghum seedlings infected with Colletotrichum sublineolum, Phytochemistry. 2007, 69: 700-706.

Researcher : Sit WH

List of Research Outputs

Jiang P., Ngai H.H.Y., Lee K.C.L., Sit W.H. and Wan J.M.F., Cellular proteome change over time induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells, 8^th World Congress on Inflammation, Denmark. 2007, P07.25.

Jin J., Jiang P., Sit W.H. and Wan J.M.F., Proteome analysis of the medicinal mushroom, Coriolus versicolor. XVI congress of the FESPB, Finland. 2008, P13-016.

Wan J.M.F., Sit W.H. and Louie J.C.Y., Polysaccharopeptide enhances the anticancer activity of doxorubicin and etoposide on human breast cancer cells ZR-75-30, International Journal of Oncology. 2008, 32(3): 689-99.

Researcher : Siu KY

List of Research Outputs

Lam P.Y., Siu K.Y., Chu J.Y.S. and Chow B.K.C., Multiple actions of secretin in the human body, Int. Rev. Cytol.. 2008, 265: 159-190.

Siu K.Y., Lee T.O. and Chow B.K.C., Southwestern blotting in investigating transcriptional regulation, Nature Protocols. 2008, 3: 51-58.

Researcher : Siu KY

List of Research Outputs

Lam P.Y., Siu K.Y., Chu J.Y.S. and Chow B.K.C., Multiple actions of secretin in the human body, Int. Rev. Cytol.. 2008, 265: 159-190.

Siu K.Y., Lee T.O. and Chow B.K.C., Southwestern blotting in investigating transcriptional regulation, Nature Protocols. 2008, 3: 51-58.

Researcher : So HH

List of Research Outputs

Ching H.H., So H.H., Tse M.Y., Tam K.S. and Li E.T.S., Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Extract Induces Apoptosis in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes, Canadian Nutrition Congress, Winnipeg, June 2007.

So H.H., Tse M.Y., Chan L.Y. and Li E.T.S., Appetite suppressing effect of t10, c12 conjugated linoleic acid on mice is dependent on dietary fat level and the temporal pattern of energy intake is associated with changes in hypothalamic expression of genes involved in appetite control, Experimental Biology, Washington DC, April 2007.

So H.H., Tse M.Y. and Li E.T.S., Short-term effects of dietary t-10, c-12 conjugated linoleic acid on energy intake, and visfatin expression in mice fed low and high fat diets, Canadian Nutrition Congress, Winnipeg, June 2007.

Researcher : Su YCF

List of Research Outputs

Su Y.C.F., Smith G.J. and Saunders R.M.K., Phylogeny of the basal angiosperm genus Pseuduvaria (Annonaceae) inferred from five chloroplast DNA regions, with interpretation of morphological character evolution., Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution. 2008, 48: 188-206.

Researcher : Sun M

List of Research Outputs

Bao J.S., Jin L., Xiao P., Shen S.Q., Sun M. and Corke H., Starch physicochemical properties and their associations with microsatellite alleles of starch-synthesizing genes in a rice RIL population. , JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY . 2008, 56: 1589-1594.

Cai Y., Sun M. and Corke H., Natural phenolic antioxidants from traditional medical herbs and dietary plants (Abstract), The Third International Symposium on Healthy Aging: Improving the Health of an Aging Population (Hong Kong). 2008.

Huang W., Cai Y., Xing J., Corke H. and Sun M., Comparative analysis of bioactivities of four Polygonum species, Planta Medica. 2008, 74 (1): 43-49.

Huang W., Cai Y., Hyde K.D., Corke H. and Sun M., Endophytic fungi from Nerium oleander L (Apocynaceae): main constituents and antioxidant activity, World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 23 (9): 1253-1263.

Researcher : Sze KL

List of Research Outputs

Sze K.L., Lui W.Y. and Lee W.W.M., Post-transcriptional regulation of CLMP mRNA is controlled by Tristetraprolin in response to TNFa via c-Jun N-terminal kinase signaling, Biochemical Journal . 2008, 410: 575-583.

Sze K.L. and Lui W.Y., Transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of cell junction proteins in mammalian testis, Current Medicinal Chemistry. 2008, 8: 95-102.

Researcher : Sze KL

List of Research Outputs

Sze K.L. and Lui W.Y., Transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation of cell junction proteins in mammalian testis, Current Medicinal Chemistry. 2008, 8: 95-102.

Researcher : Tam KS

List of Research Outputs

Ching H.H., So H.H., Tse M.Y., Tam K.S. and Li E.T.S., Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Extract Induces Apoptosis in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes, Canadian Nutrition Congress, Winnipeg, June 2007.

Tam K.S., Wu J., Tse M.Y., Tam T.M., Wang M. and Li E.T.S., Bitter melon extracts suppressed differentiation and triglyceride content of 3T3-L1 adipocytes, Experimental Biology. San Diego, April 2008 . 2008.

Researcher : Tan-Un KC

Project Title:	Quantitation of cytoglobin expression in liver of carbon tetrachloride treated mice
Investigator(s):	Tan-Un KC
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

Cytoglobin (Cygb) is a protein first discovered in fibrotic rat livers (Kawada et al., 2001), and its function is currently unknown. It binds oxygen reversibly via its heme group (Sawai et al., 2003). It is expressed in the connective tissues of a wide variety of organs. We and others have demonstrated its localization in fibroblasts and in the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) of the liver (Schmidt et al., 2004 and our unpublished data). As both types of cells are involved in the synthesis of the extra-cellular matrix (ECM), we hypothesize that cytoglobin may be related to the metabolism of ECM molecules. Upon liver injury, the functional phenotype of HSCs changes from a quiescent retinoid-storing one to a matrix-synthesizing one. During this trans-differentiation, the production of extra-cellular matrix molecules e.g. collages types I and III by HSCs, increases remarkably (Okazaki et al., 2003). Cygb had been shown to be time-dependently up-regulated during culture of primary HSCs, in the presence or absence of sera (Nakatani et al., 2004), but its expression pattern in fibrotic regions in vivo has not been described. The objective of this project is to demonstrate quantitatively the expression of cytoglobin in fibrotic lesions of the mouse liver in a time-dependent manner in relation to that of ECM molecules using laser capture microdissection (LCM). References1. Isao Okazaki, Yosifumi Ninomiya, Tanikawa Kyuichi, Scott I. Friedman, Extracellular matrix and the liver: approach to gene therapy, Amsterdam: Academic Press, 2003.2. Nakatani K, Okuyama H, Shimahara Y, Saeki S, Kim DH, Nakajima Y, Seki S, Kawada N, Yoshizato K Lab Invest. (2004) 84, 91-101.3. Norifumi Kawada, Dan Bach Kristensen, Kinji Asahina, Kazuki Nakatani, Yukiko Minamiyama, Shuichi Seki, and Katsutoshi Yoshizato J. Biol. Chem. (2001), 276, 25318-25323.4. Sawai H, Kawada N, Yoshizato K, Nakajima H, Aono S, Shiro Y. Biochemistry, (2003) 42, 5133-42.5. Schmidt M, Gerlach F, Avivi A, Laufs T, Wystub S, Simpson JC, Nevo E, Saaler-Reinhardt S, Reuss S, Hankeln T, Burmester T. J Biol Chem. (2004) 279, 8063-9.

List of Research Outputs

Chan P.K., Wai A., Philipsen S. and Tan-Un K.C., 5' HS₅ of the Human b-globin Locus Control Region is Dispensable for the Formation of the b-globin Active Chromatin Hub, PLoS One. 2008, 3 (5): e2134.

Guo X.M., Philipsen S. and Tan-Un K.C., Study of hypoxia-dependent regulation of human CYGB gene, Biochem Biophys Res Commun . 2007, 364: 145-150.

Researcher : Tang CM

List of Research Outputs

Ubhayasekara W., Tang C.M., Ho S.W.T., Berlund G., Bergfors T., Chye M.L. and Mowbray S.L., Crystal structures of a family 19 chitinase from Brassica juncea show flexibility of binding cleft loops, Federation of European Biochemical Societies Journal. 2007, 274: 3695-3703.

Ubhayasekara W., Tang C.M., Rawat R., Ho S.W.T., Chye M.L. and Mowbray S.L., Involvement of loops in catalysis in family chitinases, 8th International Conference of the European Chitin Society [EUCHIS'07], Oral presentation session 9, 09-4, p. 39 September 8-11, 2007. Antalya, Turkey.

Researcher : Tang LK

List of Research Outputs

Tang L.K. and Lo C.S.C., Functional characterization of an anther-specific DFR gene in Arabidopsis thaliana, European Plant Science Organization "Plants for Life", Toulon, France. 2008, P074.

Researcher : Tsang JSH

Project Title:	Isolation and characterisation of the regulator of the dehalogenase IVa gene of Burkholderia cepacia MBA4
Investigator(s):	Tsang JSH
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To identifiy the regulatory element; to confirm the functional role of the regulatory element; to purificate the regulatory protein(s); to characterise the regulatory protein(s); to determinate the DNA-binding site.

Project Title:	Isolation of a gene that controls catabolite repression of Burkholderia cepacia
Investigator(s):	Tsang JSH
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2006

Abstract:

Burkholderia cepacia is a group of bacteria with broad metabolic capacity. It was originally isolated as a saprophyte that causes rotten onion. Later it has been used for control of other plant pathogens because of its metabolic capacities. B. cepacia is also clinically important because of its association with cystic fibrosis patients. It is also important for bioremediation because of its ability to degrade complex hydrocarbon and xenobiotics. B. cepacia MBA4 was isolated from batch culture using monobromoacetic acid (MBA) as the sole carbon and energy source. MBA is toxic to the cell and the cleavage of the carbon-bromide bond and subsequent degradation of the glycolate is essential for the survival of the bacterium. MBA4 produces an inducible dehalogenase (DehIVa) in batch culture. Dehalogenases or halidohydrolases are hydrolytic enzymes that cleave the halogen-carbon bond(s) in halogenated aliphatic acids, yielding hydroxy- or oxo- alkanoic acids from mono- or di-substituted substrate, respectively. Current study has confirmed that the expression of DehIVa is induced by various haloacids and DNA sequences 100 bp upstream of the structural gene is sufficient for regulated expression. We are now in the process of characterizing the regulatory elements and have found that the expression of DehIVa is under negative control dependent on the binding of a repressor molecule. Works on this topic are now supported by the RGC. When the cells were grown in rich medium (LB medium) in the presence of haloacid no DehIVa was produced. This suggested that other than the negative control mechanism there was also a catabolite repression system that prevents the cells from producing the dehalogenase when commonly found resources are available. We have recently generated a mutational library of MBA4 using transposon mutagenesis. This library was then screened for clones that produced DehIVa when grown in LB medium supplemented with monochloroacetate (MCA). One of the clones, 37F14, was found to produce higher level of DehIVa in rich medium containing MCA. DNA sequences flanking the site of integration of the transposon were determined and the disrupted gene was found to encode for a conserved hypothetical protein found in many bacteria. The role of the putative gene product has not been identified. The DNA sequences were, however, only an incomplete sequence of the putative gene. In other bacteria the hypothetical conserved gene usually encoded for a protein of more than 800 residues. In this proposal I would like to obtain the full-length sequence of this conserved gene in B. cepacia MBA4. The information obtained will be able to provide more information on the structure of this gene. The ultimate goal of this proposal is obtain sufficient background information for preparation of a RGC grant in 2006 to investigate the role of this conserved protein. Knowing the role of this protein in MBA4 will be able to provide a basis for the role of this kind of proteins in other bacteria.

Project Title:	Molecular characterization of a novel bacterial permease that transport haloacid
Investigator(s):	Tsang JSH
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	10/2006

Abstract:

(1) Confirmation of the expression of the putative permease gene; (2) confirmation of the putative gene as a second member of a haloacid operon; (3) functional analysis of the putative permease; (4) structural analysis of the putative permease protein.

List of Research Outputs

Faan Y.W., Yu M. and Tsang J.S.H., Blue-white selection of regulatory genes that affect the expression of dehalogenase IVa of Burkholderia cepacia MBA4, Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 76: 429-437.

Faan Y.W. and Tsang J.S.H., Expression of the dehalogenase of Burkholderia sp. MBA4 is affected by iron availability., FEBS Journal . 2007, 274 supplement 1: 223.

Ho P., Kong K.F., Chan Y.H., Tsang J.S.H. and Wong J.T.Y., An unusual S-adenosylmethionine synthetase gene from dinoflagellates is methylated., BMC Molecular Biology. 2007, 8: 87.

Tsang J.S.H., Yu M., Faan Y.W. and Chung Y.K.W., Isolation and characterization of a novel haloacid permease from Burkholderia cepacia., FEBS Journal. 2007, 274 supplement 1: 118.

Tse Y.M., Yu M. and Tsang J.S.H., Topological analysis of a haloacid permease in a Burkholderia species. , FEBS Journal. 2007, 274 supplement 1: 118.

Yu M., Faan Y.W., Chung Y.K.W. and Tsang J.S.H., Isolation and characterization of a novel haloacid permease from Burkholderia cepacia MBA4., Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 2007, 73: 4874-4880.

Researcher : Tse MY

List of Research Outputs

Ching H.H., So H.H., Tse M.Y., Tam K.S. and Li E.T.S., Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) Extract Induces Apoptosis in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes, Canadian Nutrition Congress, Winnipeg, June 2007.

So H.H., Tse M.Y., Chan L.Y. and Li E.T.S., Appetite suppressing effect of t10, c12 conjugated linoleic acid on mice is dependent on dietary fat level and the temporal pattern of energy intake is associated with changes in hypothalamic expression of genes involved in appetite control, Experimental Biology, Washington DC, April 2007.

So H.H., Tse M.Y. and Li E.T.S., Short-term effects of dietary t-10, c-12 conjugated linoleic acid on energy intake, and visfatin expression in mice fed low and high fat diets, Canadian Nutrition Congress, Winnipeg, June 2007.

Tam K.S., Wu J., Tse M.Y., Tam T.M., Wang M. and Li E.T.S., Bitter melon extracts suppressed differentiation and triglyceride content of 3T3-L1 adipocytes, Experimental Biology. San Diego, April 2008 . 2008.

Researcher : Tse YM

List of Research Outputs

Tse Y.M., Yu M. and Tsang J.S.H., Topological analysis of a haloacid permease in a Burkholderia species. , FEBS Journal. 2007, 274 supplement 1: 118.

Researcher : Wai TC

List of Research Outputs

Morritt D., Leung K.M.Y., De Pirro M., Yau C.S.T., Wai T.C. and Williams G.A., Responses of the limpet, Cellana grata (Gould 1859), to hypo-osmotic stress during simulated tropical, monsoon rains, Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. 2007, 352: 78-88.

Wai T.C., Ng J.S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Dudgeon D. and Williams G.A., Coping with monsoonal climate change: the source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem., A Joint MMS Workshop on Marine Environmental Research, January 2008. . 2008, p.51.

Wai T.C., Ng S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Williams G.A. and Dudgeon D., The source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem, Limnology and Oceanography. 2008, 53: 1479-1492.

Researcher : Wan JMF

Project Title:	Effects of tumor necrosis factor-[alpha]TNF-[alpha] on cyclins and related cell cycle proteins expressions in human tumor cell lines as determined
Investigator(s):	Wan JMF
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	07/1995

Abstract:

To investigate: a) the effect of TNF on cyclins: D, E, A, B expression by flow cytometry; b) the effect of TNF on P21, PCNA expression by cytometric studies; c) the effect of TNF on tumor cell lines proliferation and apoptosis studied by flow cytometry.

Project Title:	The role of free radicals and antioxidants in motor neuron degenerative disease
Investigator(s):	Wan JMF, Vacca-Galloway LL
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	07/1995

Abstract:

There are increasing evidence indicating the involvement of free radicals damage in many chronic diseases such as Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease and neurondegenerative disease. By using a motor neuron degenerative disease mouse model, to investigate the roles of free radicals in the disease process and investigating whether antioxidants such as vitamins E and C can be any therapeutic use by naturalizing the free radicals.

Project Title:	The effects of antioxidants on small cell lung cancer cell line, NCI-H446
Investigator(s):	Wan JMF
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	09/1995

Abstract:

Lung cancer is almost certainly the most common cancer in the world today. Over the past several years, work has focused on characterizing the prevention, inhibition and regression of lung cancer by [beta]-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin C which act as antioxidants. This study aims to investigate the antiproliferative potential of [beta]-carotene and retinoids by flow cytometry technology. The data will help us to understand how antioxidants prevent lung cancer formation and progression.

Project Title:	The effects of different dietary fatty acids on the development of mammary tumors in female fischer 344 rats
Investigator(s):	Wan JMF
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Other Funding Scheme
Start Date:	09/1995

Abstract:

Exciting evidences demonstrated that the quality of dietary fatty acids, especially W-6 and W-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids affect the development of cancers such as the colon, breast, and prostate. This project aims to investigate the effect of saturated, monosaturated W-3, and W-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids on breast cancer cells proliferation by using flow cytometry technology. The data in this study will help us understand the mechanisms involved in more depth.

Project Title:	To determine the mechanisms of apoptosis of polysaccharide peptide (PSP) in human leukemic cell lines and human normal lymphocytes
Investigator(s):	Wan JMF
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To determine the apoptotic pathways of PSP-induced apoptosis in various human leukemic cell eines; to identify the survival pathways in the human normal lymphocytes in response to PSP-induced apoptosis.

Project Title:	Molecular Structural Determination of Protein-bound Polysaccharide peptide (PSP) isolated from the Chinese Medicinal Mushroom Coriolus versicolor (Cov-1)
Investigator(s):	Wan JMF, Sze KH, Che CM
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	05/2006

Abstract:

Purpose: The goal of this project is to determine the molecular structure of Cov-1 PSP molecule dervies from the Chinese Medicine mushroom Yun Zhi. Key Issues: Polysaccharide peptide (PSP) isolated from the mycelia of fungus Coriolus versicolor (Cov-1 strain) or Yun Zhi is Chinese Medicine best known for its anticancer and immunomodulatory properties. PSP is classified as a biological response modifier (Ng TB 1998 review) with the ability to induce gamma-interferon, intelerukin-2 production, T-cell proliferation in cancer patients. A small peptide with a molecular weight of 16-18 kDa originating from PSP has been produced with antiproliferative and antitumor activities (Yang et al 1992). We have recently published the cellular and molecular detailed cell death induction pathways of PSP on human leukemic cells by flow cytometry (Yang &Wan 2005, Hui and Wan 2005) and cDNA arrays (Zeng, Leung &Wan 2005). The ability of the Cov-1 PSP to distinguish cancerous cells from non-cancerous cells as recently determined by us (Yang & Wan 2005) and previously by others (NT 1998 review), indeed suggesting its uniqueness potential in its development into anticancer agent. Cov-1 PSP possesses a molecular weight of approximately 100 kDa. The polysaccharide moiety is a heteropolysaccharide made up of monosccharides with alpha-1, 4 and beta-1, 3 glucosidic linkages consisting of glucose, glactose, mannose, xylose, arabinose and trace amount of rhamnose (NT 1998 review). The polypeptide unit contains glutamic and aspartic acids as the abundant amino acids. PSP is presently used as over-the-counter dietary health supplement with multiple health claims such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-allergic and anti-viral. Our preliminary work on separation and purification of PSP by HPLC technology has identified two factions: a small molecular fraction of < 5000 Da and a macro-molecular fraction of > 5000 Da. The former fraction exhibited anticancer effect onhuman leukemia and the latter fraction exhibited immunomodulatory effect on healthy normal human T-lymphocytes. Despite the promising potentials of PSP, pharmaceumatical industry is not willing to invest into its therapeutic development unless the molecular structural information is apparent. It is urgent to identify the molecular structure of the PSP molecules as soon as possible since this unqiue Cov-1 strain medicinal mushroom exhibits most promising anticancer and immunomodulatory properties. The Cov-1 PSP strain is currently in Phase III clinical testing for anti-cancer properties in China with sucessful outcomes. Up-to-now, there are no clear structural determination of the PSP parent molecule and its fractions. The present propoal thus sought to reveal the molecular structure of PSP. Issues to be addressed: Additional experiments are also required to more thoroughly assess the molecular structure of the compounds that are responsible for the immunomodulatory effect and that which posses anticancer activities. Purpose of this proposed project: The goal of this project is to determine the structure of Cov-1 PSP molecule by carrying out the following objectives: 1. to purify fractions of PSP by DEAE Anion-exchange HPLC system 2. to elucidate the molecular structure of PSP by spectroscpic analysis, NMR and/or X-ray crystallograpghy. We believe that the structural determination of the molecular structure of PSP is urgently needed as to provide important insight into its distinct functions/roles in treatment of cancer and infectious diseases. References Cited: Yang MM et al (1992). The anticancer effect of a small polypeptide from Coriolus versicolor. Am J Clin Med 20: 221-32. Ng TB (1998). A review or research on the protein-bound polysaccharide PSP from the mushroom Coriolus versiolor. Gen Pharmacol 30: 1-4. Zeng F, Leung F and Wan JMF (2005). Molecular characterization of Coriolus versicolor in human promyelotic leukemic HL-60 cells using cDNA microarray. In J of Oncology 26: 10-16. Hui K.P.Y& Wan JMF (2005) Induction of S phase cells arrest and caspase activation by polysaccharide peptide (PSP) isolated from coriolus versicolor enhanced the cell-cycle-dependent activity and apoptotic cell death of Doxorubicin and Etoposide but not Cytarabine in HL-60 cells. Oncology Reports. 14(1): 145-165. Yang X and Wan JMF (2005). The Cell Death Process of the Anticancer Agent Polysaccharide-peptide (PSP) in Human Promyelocytic Leukemic HL-60 Cells. Oncology Reports 13(6): 1201-1221.

List of Research Outputs

Jiang P., Ngai H.H.Y., Lee K.C.L., Sit W.H. and Wan J.M.F., Cellular proteome change over time induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in murine macrophage Raw 264.7 cells, 8^th World Congress on Inflammation, Denmark. 2007, P07.25.

Jin J., Jiang P., Sit W.H. and Wan J.M.F., Proteome analysis of the medicinal mushroom, Coriolus versicolor. XVI congress of the FESPB, Finland. 2008, P13-016.

Wan J.M.F., Sit W.H. and Louie J.C.Y., Polysaccharopeptide enhances the anticancer activity of doxorubicin and etoposide on human breast cancer cells ZR-75-30, International Journal of Oncology. 2008, 32(3): 689-99.

Researcher : Wang M

Project Title:	Resveratrol derivatives as disease prevention agents
Investigator(s):	Wang M
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	02/2006

Abstract:

The proposed research seeks to use phytochemicals, especially resveratrol derivatives (stilbene compounds) as disease chemopreventive agents. Our preliminary research discovered that several stilbene monomers were cancer chempreventive agents and skin-whitening agents. In this research we plan to systematically study the disease preventive activities of various stilbene compounds.The specific goals of this research include: Objective 1: Preparation of stilbene monomer/derivatives from plant materials by isolation and purification or through organic synthesis. To isolate from nature, we will focus on two Hong Kong Gnetum species, Gnetum lofuense and Gnetum montanum Markgr which have not been well studied. Objective 2: Preparation of stilbene oligomers, mainly the dimmers from plant sources or through oxidation of monomers by enzyme and chemical reactions. Objective 3. Preparation of new stilbene derivatives, such as stilbenolignans, by oxidative coupling reaction with other phenolic compounds. Objective 4: Develop and validate sensitive HPLC and LC/MS methods for analysis of stilbene compounds in different plant materials, mainly from Morus, Gnetum and Rheum family plants. Search for plant species and varieties with high contents of bioactive components. Preparation of standardized plant extracts/pure natural products for pharmacological studies. Object 5: Evaluate the antioxidant activity, aldose reductase, α-glucosidase, α-amylase, lipase and acetylcholinesterase inhibition activities of purified compounds and extracts. Apply them for prevention, and treatment of cancer, obesity, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

Project Title:	Evaluation of the neuroprotective effects of Chinese mulberry
Investigator(s):	Wang M, Chang RCC
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	03/2007

Abstract:

Neurodegenerative disease, with Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease as the two best-known diseases, is a generic term applied to a variety of conditions arising from chronic breakdown or deterioration of the neurons, particularly those of the central nerve system. Several lines of evidence suggest a role of oxidative cascades of events leading to these neurodegeneration. Thus antioxidative phenolic compounds have been evaluated for their neuroprotective activities and some are found to be effective. However the molecular mechanisms of neuroprotective activities of phenolics do not merely depend on a direct radical scavenging/antioxidant activity, rather, phenolics may function at several cellular levels, including direct interaction and modulation of enzymatic activities, and the regulation of signal pathways with implication for cell survivals. This suggests that further studies are warranty to elucidate the structural specificity, cellular targets and mechanisms of actions of the phenolic compounds in the brain. Chinese mulberry is a less-studied small berry, but traditionally known for its anti-aging properties, and has been develeped as a healthy product in mainland of China. However whether it's neuroprotective for Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease is still not very clear, and which component contributes to its neuroprotective effects is deserved further investigation. As phenolic compounds are known to be rich in small berries, we assume they will contribute the the neuroprotetive effects of Chinese mulberry, as different groups of phenolic compounds exist in Chinese mulberry, they may contribute to the multi-mechnismed neuroprotective effects. The specific objectives are: Objective one: Develop procedures to extract and purify phenolic compounds, especially several groups of phenolics, such as anthocyanins, proanthocyadins, stilbenes and flavonods from Chinese mulberry. Objective two: Evaluate the neuroprotective activities of these components (antioxidant activities, effects on neurons against serum deprivation and beta-amyloid peptide toxicity and neuronal apoptosis, effects on the activities of caspase-3 and stress kinase activation, and effects on 6-hydroxydopamine-induced cell death and nuclear factor-kappaB).

List of Research Outputs

Chang M.P., Chang R.C.C., Wang M. and So K.F., A review on the laboratory investigations and epidemiological studies of black tea, In: Chi-Tang Ho, James E. Simon, Fereidoon Shahidi and Yu Shao, ACS Symposium Series 987, Dietary Supplements. Washington, DC, American Chemical Society, 2008.

Chao J., Yu M.S., Ho Y.S., Wang M. and Chang R.C.C., Dietary oxyresveratrol attenuates neurotoxicity induced by 6-hydroxydopamine in SH-SY5Y cells, Federation of European Neurosciences Societies Abstracts. 2007, 4: Poster 184.15.

Chao J., Yu M.S., Ho Y.S., Wang M. and Chang R.C.C., Dietary oxyresveratrol prevents 6-hydroxydopamine-induced neurotoxicity in SH-SY5Y cells, Third International Symposium on Healthy Aging: Improving the Health of an Aging Population, March 1-2, 2008, Hong Kong. 2008, 51 P11.

Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory effects of dietary phenolics on the formation of toxic substances in thermal processed foods, Programme Book of the 1st Annual Meeting of Joint US-Sino Food Safety Research Center, 12 May 2008, Shanghai. 2008, p. 1-3.

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Effects of dietary phenolics on the formation of mutagenic heterocyclic amines, IFT 2008 Annual Meeting + Food Expo. June 28-July 1, 2008, New Orleans, USA, poster. . 2008.

Cheng K.W., Wu W.L., Zheng Z., Peng X., Simon J.E., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory Effect of Fruit Extracts on the Formation of Heterocyclic Amines, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2007, 55(25): 10359-10365.

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory activities of dietary phenolic compounds on heterocyclic amine formation in both chemical model system and beef patties, Molecular Nutrition & Food Research. 2007, 51: 969-976.

Cheng K.W., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry in natural product research. In: Colegate, S.M. & Molyneux, R.J. (eds), Bioactive Natural Products: Detection, Isolation and Structural Determination, 2nd edition, CRC Press, Boca Raton, FL. 2008, 245-265.

Cheng K.W., Wang M., Chen S.F. and Ho C.T., Oligostilbenes from Gnetum species and antocarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory activities of oligostibenes, In: Chi-Tang Ho, James E. Simon, Fereidoon Shahidi and Yu Shao, ACS Symposium Series 987, Dietary Supplements. Washington, DC, American Chemical Society, 2008, 36-58.

Pan M.H., Gao J.H., Lai C.S., Wang Y.J., Chen W.M., Lo C.Y., Wang M., Dushenkov S. and Ho C.T., Antitumor activity of 3,5,4'-trimethoxystilbene in COLO 205 cells and xenografts in SCID mice, Molecular Carcinogenesis . 2008, 53: 184-196.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen B., Ho C.T., Lo C.S.C., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Cinnamon Bark Proanthocyanidins as Reactive Carbonyl Scavengers To Prevent the Formation of Advanced Glycation Endproducts, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2008, 56(6): 1907-1911.

Peng X., Cheng K.W., Ma J., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Evaluation of cinnamon bark phenolics as trapping agents for reactive carbonyl species to inhibit the formation of AGEs, IFT 2008 Annual Meeting + Food Expo. June 28-July 1, 2008, New Orleans, USA, poster.. 2008.

Peng X., Zheng Z., Cheung K.W., Shan F., Ren G.X., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory effect of mung bean extract and its constituents vitexin and isovitexin on the formation of advanced glycation endproducts , Food Chemistry. 2008, 106(2): 475-481.

Rodolfo J.H., Welch C., Astante-Dartey J., Acquaye D., Wang M. and Simon J.E., Chemistry, quality adn functional propertiese of grains of paradise (Aframomum mellegueta), a rediscovered spice, In: Chi-Tang Ho, James E Simon, Fereidoon Shahidi and Yu Shao, ACS Symposium Series 987, Dietary Supplements. Washington, DC, American Chemical Society, 2008, 100-113.

Shih C.H., Chen Y., Wang M., Chu I.K. and Lo C.S.C., Accumulation of isoflavone genistin in transgenic tomato plants overexpressing a soybean isoflavone synthase gene, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. 2008, 56: 5655-5661.

Tam K.S., Wu J., Tse M.Y., Tam T.M., Wang M. and Li E.T.S., Bitter melon extracts suppressed differentiation and triglyceride content of 3T3-L1 adipocytes, Experimental Biology. San Diego, April 2008 . 2008.

Wang M., Mingfu Wang. Research and discovery of phenolic compounds for disease prevention and food application. , 2007 HKU TCM Workshop, December 14, 2007, invited presentation.. 2007.

Wang M., Tyrosinase inhibitors from Chinese herbs, 10th Asian Congress of Nutrition. Taiwan, 2007.

Wu J., Cheng K.W., Li E.T.S., Wang M. and Ye W.C., Antibrowning activity of MRPs in enzyme and fresh-cut apple slice models, Food Chemistry . 2008, 109(2): 379-385.

Zhang Y., Wei D., Zhang X., Gao S., Wang M. and Chen S.F., Chemical Components and Antioxidant Activity of the Volatile Oil from Cassia tora L. Seed Prepared by Supercritical Fluid Extraction, Journal of Food Lipids. 2007, 14: 411-423.

Zheng Z., Cheng K.W., Chao J., Wu J. and Wang M., Tyrosinase inhibitors from paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), In: , Food Chemistry . 2008, 106(2): 529-535.

Researcher : Wang Y

List of Research Outputs

Kwok H.Y.A., Wang Y., Wang Y. and Leung F.C.C., Molecular cloning and characterization of chicken prostaglandin E receptor subtypes 2 and 4 (EP2 and EP4), General and Comparative Endocrinology. 2008, 157: 99-106.

Wang Y., Lee W.W.M. and Lui W.Y., Combined effects of Elk-1/NRSF and TGIF/E2F regulate junctional adhesion molecule-B gene expression in mouse testicular cells. , 33rd FEBS Congress, June 28-July 3 2008, Athens, Greece. . 2008.

Wang Y., Wang Y., Kwok H.Y.A. and Leung F.C.C., Identification of two novel chicken GHRH receptor splice variants: implications for the roles of aspartate 56 in the receptor activation and direct ligand–receptor interaction, Journal of Endocrinology. 2007, . 195: 525-536

Wang Y., Lee W.W.M. and Lui W.Y., Regulation of JAM-B expression via an interplay of transcription factors of Elk-1, Sp, and E2F families in testicular cells. , The 47th American Society of Cell Biology Annual Meeting. Dec 1-5 2007, Washington, DC, U.S.A. Abstract#347. 2007.

Researcher : Wang Y

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Wang Y

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Williams GA

Project Title:	Heat shock protein expression profiles in marine intertidal organisms in response to heat stress
Investigator(s):	Williams GA, Leung KMY
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To optimize heat shock protein detection and quantification in different tissues of intertidal marine invertebrates (barnacles, mussels and limpets); to establish the in situ profile of heat shock protein (hsp) expression with relation to time and temperature; to explore the relevance of chaperone molecules in biogeographical distribution and habitat partitioning of intertidal organisms; to determine the cellular heat shock response of intertidal organisms under controlled laboratory experiments and the relevance of acclimatization in thermotolerance threshold; to test the hypothesis that organisms found at different tidal levels will exhibit different hsp expression profiles; to test the hypothesis that laboratory acclimatization will alter the thermotolerance threshold and hsp expression profiles of organisms.

Project Title:	Tropical intertidal community structure: the role of supply-side ecology along the South China coast
Investigator(s):	Williams GA, Chan KK
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

To assess the distribution and abundance of Tetraclita squamosa and Tetraclita japonica along the South China coast; to estimate the larval dispersal range of Tetraclita and how genetically distinct are Tetraclita along the South China coast; to determine spatial and temporal patterns of larval supply, settlement and post-settlement mortality of Tetraclita species.

List of Research Outputs

Morritt D., Leung K.M.Y., De Pirro M., Yau C.S.T., Wai T.C. and Williams G.A., Responses of the limpet, Cellana grata (Gould 1859), to hypo-osmotic stress during simulated tropical, monsoon rains, Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. 2007, 352: 78-88.

Stafford R., Davies M.S. and Williams G.A., Computer simulations of high shore littorinids predict small-scale spatial and temporal distribution patterns on rocky shores, Marine Ecology Progress Series. 2007, 342: 151-161.

Stafford R., Davies M.S. and Williams G.A., Self-Organization of Intertidal Snails Facilitates Evolution of Aggregation Behavior, Artificial Life. 2008, 14: 1-15.

Wai T.C., Ng J.S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Dudgeon D. and Williams G.A., Coping with monsoonal climate change: the source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem., A Joint MMS Workshop on Marine Environmental Research, January 2008. . 2008, p.51.

Wai T.C., Ng S.S., Leung K.M.Y., Williams G.A. and Dudgeon D., The source and fate of organic matter and the significance of detrital pathways in a tropical coastal ecosystem, Limnology and Oceanography. 2008, 53: 1479-1492.

Williams G.A. and Cartwright S.R., Marine Ecology: Processes, systems and impacts, In: Michel Kaiser, Martin Attrill, Simon Jennings, David N. Thomas, David Barnes, Andrew Brierley, Nicholas Polunion, David Raffaelli, Peter B. Williams (Eds.), Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. Oxford University Press, 2007, 352: 268.

Williams G.A., Rocky shores and climate change: what we know and what we need to know, Meeting for the State Key Laboratory for Marine and Environmental Research, Xiamen . 2008.

Researcher : Wong AOL

Project Title:	Novel aspects of growth hormone autoregulation in grass carp pituitary cells:- intrapituitary "ultra-short" feedback on growth hormone gene expression in fish?
Investigator(s):	Wong AOL
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2003

Abstract:

To establish the structural identity of grass carp GH receptor; to provide a full-length receptor cDNA for subsequent functional expression studies; to confirm the expression of GH receptors in immuno-identified grass carp somatotrophs; to characterize ligand-binding properties of grass carp GH receptors expressed in CHO cells; to show the functional coupling of grass carp GH receptors with Ca²⁺i and Spi 2.1 gene activation; to examine the role of GH on GH synthesis and GH mRNA expression in grass carp pituitary cells; to examine the role of endogenous GH on GH mRNA expression induced by GH-releasing factors; to examine the effects of inhibiting the JAK/MARK cascade in GH-induced GH mRNA expression; to examine the effects of inhibiting the JAK/IRS/P13K cascade in GH-induced GH mRNA expression; to demonstrate GH modulation of GH transcript stability by altering the half-life (T1/2) of GHmRNA; to show that GH is essential to maintain basal expression of GH primary transcripts in the nucleus; to test if GH can alter the 5' promoter activity of grass carp GH gene using a reporter gene assay.

Project Title:	Intrapituitary feedback loop regulating growth hormone synthesis:- paracrine regulation of growth hormone gene expression by gonadotropin release in grass carp pituitary cells
Investigator(s):	Wong AOL
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

To study: (1) molecular cloning of grass carp GTH-II receptor by 3' and 5' RACE; (2) tissue distribution of GTH-II receptor transcripts in Chinese grass carp; (3) functional expression and characterization of grass carp GTH-II receptors; (4) GH mRNA expression regulated by interactions between GTH-II and GH regulators; (5) post-receptor signaling mechanisms mediating GTH-induced GH gene expression in grass carp pituitary cells; (6) functional role of GH mRNA stability and GH primary transcript in GTH-induced GH gene expression in grass carp pituitary cells; modulation of the 5' promoter activity of grass carp GH gene by GTH-II through the AC/cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway.

Project Title:	Modulation of calmodulin gene expression as a novel mechanism for growth hormone feedback control by insulin-like growth factor in grass carp pituitary cells
Investigator(s):	Wong AOL
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

(1) Molecular cloning and functional studies of calmodulin in fish models; (2) IGF regulation of calmodulin (CaM) gene expression in grass carp pituitary cells; (3) functional role of CaM in IGF feedback control on growth hormone (GH) gene expression; (4) signal transduction for IGF regulation of CaM gene expression at the pituitary level; (5) molecular cloning and functional studies of CREB in grass carp pituitary cells; (6) Ca₂₊/CaM-dependent pathways mediate GH feedback control by IGF via modulation of CREB gene expression.

Project Title:	Novel actions of somatostatin in grass carp pituitary cells: inhibition of growth hormone synthesis through up-regulation of CREB Gene expression
Investigator(s):	Wong AOL
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2006

Abstract:

To demonstrate the presence of somatostatin (SRIF) immunoreactivity in the grass carp pituitary; to confirm that SRIF can inhibit GH production and GH gene expression in grass carp pituitary cells; to test if SRIF can interact with other GH-releasing factors to regulate GH gene expression at the pituitary level; to study the role of GH transcript stability and gene transcription in SRIF inhibition of GH mRNA expression; to test if SRIF can modulate CREB production and CREB gene expression in grass carp pituitary cells; to examine the role of transcript stability and gene transcription in SRIF-induced CREB mRNA expression; to check for spatial and temporal correlations between CREB and GH mRNA expression after SRIF treatment; to elucidate the post-receptor signaling events mediating SRIF actions on CREB and GH mRNA expression; to test if SRIF treatment and CREB over-expression can affect the promoter activity of grass carp GH gene; to map the location(s) of SRIF and CREB responsive sequence(s) in grass carp GH promoter by 5' deletion; to identify the cis-acting element(s) in GH promoter for SRIF and CREB regulation of GH gene transcription.

List of Research Outputs

Jiang Q., Ko K.W., Lerner E.A., Chan K.M. and Wong A.O.L., Grass carp somatolactin: I. Evidence for PACAP induction of somatolactin-{alpha] and -{beta} gene expression via activation of pituitary PAC-I receptors, American Journal Physiology Endocrinology Metabolism 2008 Aug. 2008, 295(2): E463-76.

Jiang Q., He M., Wang X. and Wong A.O.L., Grass carp somatolactin: II. Pharmacological study on postreceptor signaling mechanisms for PACAP-induced somatolactin-{alpha} and -{beta} gene expression, American Journal Physiology Endocrinology Metabolism 2008 Aug. 2008, 295(2): E477-90.

Lai P.M., Yao H., Wong A.O.L. and Sze K.H., Structure and Functional Study of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide (PACAP), The Fifiennth Symposium on Chemistry Postgraduate Research in Hong Kong. The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, April 26, 2008.

Sze K.H., Wong A.O.L., Yang Y., Zhou H., He M. and Sze K.H., A Brain-specific PACAP in Fish Model: Solution Structure by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Effects on Growth Hormone Release and Gene Expression, International Conference in Structural Biology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, November 19-22, 2007 . 2007.

Wong A.O.L., Member of Editorial Board., In: Dr. Matthew Honan, The Open Physiology Journal. Bentham Science Publishers, 2007.

Wong A.O.L., “New Components of Intrapituitary Feedback Loop regulating Growth Hormone Synthesis and Secretion in Grass Carp” / Invited Presentation, The 6th International Symposium on Fish Endocrinology (June 22-27), University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada. , ISFE International . 2008.

Researcher : Wong AST

Project Title:	The role of GRP/BiP and MnSOD in BRCA1-mediated breast/ovarian tumor suppression
Investigator(s):	Wong AST, He Q
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2004

Abstract:

To elucidate the role of GRP78/BiP and MnSOD in BRCA1-mediated breast and ovarian tumor suppression; to define the direct effect of BRCA1 on the altered expressions of GRP78/BiP and MnSOD by transfection and expression of functional BRCA1 gene in OSE cells; to examine the role of GRP78/BiP and MnSOD overespression in the regulation of apoptosis, cell growth and cell cycle progression, and in protecting cells from external stresses and resistance to cytotoxic drugs in breast and ovarian epithelial cells; to determine the mechanism (signal pathway) by which BRCA1 alters the gene activities of GRP78/BiP and MnSOD.

Project Title:	p70^S6K in human ovarian cancer
Investigator(s):	Wong AST
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

To determine whether p70S6K plays a specific and direct role in actin reorganization, tumor cell migration and invasion; to determine the mechanism underlying its regulation of the actin cytoskeleton.

Project Title:	Role of the Met/HGF receptor in the invasive behavior of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells.
Investigator(s):	Wong AST
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2006

Abstract:

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is highly prevalent in our locality of Southern China and Southeast Asia, where the incidence is approximately 30-80/100,000 people per year, while it is rare in most other countries, especially in Europe and North America (incidence below 1/100,000) (1). Most NPC are undifferentiated or poorly differentiated squamous carcinoma. In addition to its rapid growth behavior, NPC is known to be highly aggressive and invasive and distant metastasis is more frequent than most of other head and neck cancers (2). 60-85% of NPC patients already have metastasis in the regional lymph nodes and distant organs at the time of diagnosis. These factors account for the high rate of treatment failure despite the tumor cells' radiosensitivity. Prognosis is poor and the 5-year survival rate is less than 30%. However, the molecular mechanism of tumor progression in NPC is largely unknown. Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a stromal-derived cytokine that regulates mitogenesis, motility and morphogenesis in a cell type-dependent fashion (3, 4). These different behaviors are part of a single complex phenomenon, termed invasive growth, which is involved in several physiological processes and also contributes to cancer progression. The Met tyrosine kinase, a proto-oncogene, was identified as the high-affinity receptor for HGF and activation of Met via autocrine, paracrine, or mutational mechanisms can lead to tumorigenesis and metastasis (5-7). Overexpression of the Met receptor has been detected in NPC. In addition, HGF acted as a paracrine factor in NPC development. It was found to be expressed neither in NPC tissues nor in NPC cell lines, but was abundantly detected in the interstitial tissues surrounding the tumor (8). Importantly, the prevalence of abnormal Met expression is higher in metastases than in primary lesions, and is associated with poor clinical prognosis of NPC (8, 9), suggesting a role for the HGF-Met system in the progression of these tumors. On HGF stimulation, Met activates downstream signaling pathways such as the phosphatidyinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-Akt and the mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways (10-12). These pathways are essential for mediating biological activities including migration, invasion, cell spreading/actin reorganization. In addition, HGF-Met signaling can upregulate the production of matrix metalloproteinases and urokinase that induce the degradation of extracellular matrices and basement membrane and enhance tumor invasion and metastasis (13, 14). In this study, we plan to determine the role of Met overexpression in NPC cell invasion and metastasis. We will further investigate the mechanism underlying these processes. References: 1. Spano JP, Busson P, Atlan D, Bourhis J, Pignon JP, Esteban C & Armand JP 2003 Nasopharyngeal carcinomas: an update. European Journal of Cancer 39 2121-2135. 2. Grammatica L, Achille G, Piepoli S & Paradiso A 1999 Early, late symptoms and histological type of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Oncology Reports 6 1395-1398. 3. Comoglio PM & Trusolino L 2002 Invasive growth: from development to metastasis. Journal of Clinical Investigation 109 857-862. 4. Birchmeier C, Birchmeier W, Gherardi E & Vande Woude GF 2003 Met, metastasis, motility and more. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology 4 915-925. 5. Wang R, Kobayashi R & Bishop JM 1996 Cellular adherence elicits ligand-independent activation of the Met cell-surface receptor. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences USA 93 8425-8430. 6. Park WS, Oh RR, Kim YS, Park JY, Shin MS, Lee HK, Lee SH, Yoo NJ & Lee JY 2000 Absence of mutations in the kinase domain of the Met gene and frequent expression of Met and HGF/SF protein in primary gastric carcinomas. APMIS 108 195-200. 7. Morello S, Olivero M, Aimetti M, Bernardi M, Berrone S, Di Renzo MF & Giordano S 2001 MET receptor is overexpressed but not mutated in oral squamous cell carcinomas. Journal of Cellular Physiology 189 285-290. 8. Qian CN, Guo X, Cao B, Kort EJ, Lee CC, Chen J, Wang LM, Mai WY, Min HQ, Hong MH, Vande Woude GF, Resau JH & Teh BT 2002 Met protein expression level correlates with survival in patients with late-stage nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Cancer Research 62 589-596. 9. Horikawa T, Sheen TS, Takeshita H, Sato H, Furukawa M & Yoshizaki T 2001 Induction of c-Met proto-oncogene by Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein-1 and the correlation with cervical lymph node metastasis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. American Journal of Pathology 159 27-33. 10. Ridley AJ, Comoglio PM & Hall A 1995 Regulation of scatter factor/hepatocyte growth factor responses by Ras, Rac, and Rho in MDCK cells. Molecular and Cellular Biology 15 1110-1122. 11. Zeigler ME, Chi Y, Schmidt T & Varani J 1999 Role of ERK and JNK pathways in regulating cell motility and matrix metalloproteinase 9 production in growth factor-stimulated human epidermal keratinocytes. Journal of Cellular Physiology 180 271-284. 12. Royal I, Lamarche-Vane N, Lamorte L, Kaibuchi K & Park M 2000 Activation of cdc42, rac, PAK, and rho-kinase in response to hepatocyte growth factor differentially regulates epithelial cell colony spreading and dissociation. Molecular Biology of the Cell 11 1709-1725. 13. Harvey P, Clark IM, Jaurand MC, Warn RM & Edwards DR 2000 Hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor enhances the invasion of mesothelioma cell lines and the expression of matrix metalloproteinases. British Journal of Cancer 83 1147-1153. 14. Kermorgant S, Aparicio T, Dessirier V, Lewin MJ & Lehy T 2001 Hepatocyte growth factor induces colonic cancer cell invasiveness via enhanced motility and protease overproduction. Evidence for PI3 kinase and PKC involvement. Carcinogenesis 22 1035-1042.

List of Research Outputs

Chen C.L., Cheung W.T., Lau M.T., Choi J.H., Auersperg N., Wang H.S., Wong A.S.T. and Leung P.C.K., Differential role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone on human ovarian epithelial cancer cell invasion, Endocrine. 2007, 31: 311-320.

Cheung W.T., Lee Y.F., Ng T.W., Ching W.K., Khoo U.S., Ng M.K.P. and Wong A.S.T., CpG/CpNpG motifs in the coding region are preferred sites for mutagenesis in the breast cancer susceptibility genes, FEBS Lett. 2007, 581(24): 4668-74.

Cheung W.T. and Wong A.S.T., GnRH receptor signaling in extrapituitary tissues, FEBS Journal. 2008, in press.

Cheung W.T., Leung P.C.K. and Wong A.S.T., Gonadotropin-releasing hormone activates Rac1 and Cdc42 GTPases via p120 catenin to promote the invasion of ovarian carcinoma cells, Annual Meeting of the Endocrine Society, San Francisco, CA (Abstract No. P3-89). 2008.

Choi J.H., Wong A.S.T., Huang H.F. and Leung P.C.K., Gonadotropins and ovarian cancer, Endocrine Reviews. 2008, 28: 440-461.

Kwan W.Y., Yeung H.Y. and Wong A.S.T., BRCA1 inactivation induces GRP78 expression and protects human breast and ovarian cancer cells against stress-induced apoptosis. , Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Reproduction, Hong Kong. p.34 (Abstract No. P-16) . 2007.

Kwan W.Y., Yeung H.Y., He Q., Lee A.S., Liu J. and Wong A.S.T., The unfolded protein response regulatory GRP78 is a novel target of BRCA1 for inhibiting stress-induced apoptosis, Annual Meeting of the American Association of Cancer Research, San Diego, CA. p. 212 (Abstract No. 1785) . 2008.

Law A.Y., Lai K.P., Ip K.M., Wong A.S.T., Wagner G.F. and Wong C.K., Epigenetic and HIF-1 regulation of stanniocalcin-2 expression in human cancer cells, Experimental Cell Research. 2008, 314: 1823-1830.

Leung K.W., Cheung W.T., Pon Y.L., Wong R.N.S., Mak N.K., Fan T.P., Au S.C.L., Tombran-Tink J. and Wong A.S.T., Ginsenoside Rb1 inhibits tube-like structure formation of endothelial cells by regulating pigment epithelium-derived factor through the oestrogen beta receptor , British Journal of Pharmacology. 2007, 152: 207-215.

Park S.H., Cheung W.T., Wong A.S.T. and Leung P.C.K., Estrogen Regulates Snail and Slug in the Down-Regulation of E-Cadherin and Induces Metastatic Potential of Ovarian Cancer Cells through Estrogen Receptor a, Molecular Endocrinology. 2008, 22(9): 2085-2098.

Pon Y.L., Zhou H. and Wong A.S.T., Epidermal growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor utilize divergent MAPK signaling pathways to synergistically enhance ovarian cancer, Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Reproduction, Hong Kong. p.18 (Abstract No. OR-04). 2007.

Pon Y.L. and Wong A.S.T., Gonadotropin and its role in the b-catenin/T-cell factor signaling pathway, Expert Rev. Endocrinol. Metab.. 2007, 2(3): 375-385.

Pon Y.L., Zhou H., Cheung A.N.Y., Ngan H.Y.S. and Wong A.S.T., p70 S6 kinase promotes epithelial to mesenchymal transition through Snail induction in ovarian cancer cells, Cancer Research. 2008, 68(16): 6524-6532.

Pon Y.L., Zhou H. and Wong A.S.T., p70S6K induces epithelial to mesenchymal transition in human ovarian cancer cells through upregulation of Snail, 14th European Cancer Conference, Barcelona, Spain. European Journal of Cancer (Suppl.), 5 (4), 316. 2007.

Wong A.S.T., Cell adhesion and signal transduction by cadherins in ovarian cancer, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, May. 2008.

Wong A.S.T., Cell adhesion and signaling in ovarian cancer: an exception to the rule?, Biochemistry, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, May. 2008.

Wong A.S.T., HGF and its receptor Met: molecular control of invasive growth in ovarian cancer., Hakone, Japan, November. 2007.

Wong A.S.T., HGF/Met signaling in OSE and ovarian cancer, The Etiology of Ovarian Cancers, Vancouver, BC, Canada, September. 2007.

Wong A.S.T., Outstanding Young Researcher Award, The University of Hong Kong. 2007.

Wong A.S.T. and Leung P.C.K., Role of endocrine and growth factors on the ovarian surface epithelium, Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. 2007, 33: 3-16.

Yeung H.Y., Wong K.Y., Lin M.C., Wong C.K., Mashima T., Tsuruo T. and Wong A.S.T., Chemosensitization by Manganese Superoxide Dismutase Inhibition is Caspase-9 Dependent and Involves Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase 1/2, British Journal of Cancer. 2008, 99: 283-293.

Yue P.Y., Cheng Y.K., Mak N.K., Leung K.W., Wong A.S.T., Fan T.P. and Wong R.N., Chapter 21 Ginseng and angiogenesis, In: Angiogenesis: Basic Science and Clinical Applications, M. E. Maragoudakis and E. Papadimitriou ed., Transworld Research Network Publisher. 2007, 351-366.

Zhou H., Pon Y.L. and Wong A.S.T., HGF/MET signaling in ovarian cancer, Current Molecular Medicine. 2008, in press.

Zhou H., Pon Y.L. and Wong A.S.T., Synergistic effects of epidermal growth factor and hepatocyte growth factor on human ovarian cancer cell invasion and migration: role of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK, Endocrinology. 2007, 148: 5195-5208.

Researcher : Wong CC

List of Research Outputs

Li H., Wong C.C., Cheng K.W. and Chen S.F., Antioxidant properties in vitro and total phenolic contents in methanol extracts from medicinal plants. LWT, Food Science and Technology. 2008, 41: 385-390.

Wong C.C., Wang Y., He Q., Chiu J.F. and Chen S.F., Anticancer activity of indioside d: insights from proteomic analysis, Abstracts of the 32nd FEBS Congress, 7-12 July, Vienna, Austria. 2007, p. 375.

Wong C.C., Wang Y., Cheng K.W., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Comparative proteomic analysis of indioside D-triggered cell death in HeLa cells, Journal of Proteome Research. 2008, 7: 2050-2058.

Wong C.C., Chiu J.F., He Q. and Chen S.F., Identification of serum glycoprotein biomarkers for diagnosis of anticancer activity of indioside d: insights from proteomic analysis, Abstract book of the CNHUPO 5th Annual Congress & the First Guangdong-Hong Kong Proteomics Forum, 20-22 August, Guangzhou. 2007, p. 42.

Wong C.C., Cheng K.W., He Q. and Chen S.F., Unraveling the molecular targets of natural products: Insights from genomic and proteomic analyses, Proteomics - Clinical Application. 2008, 2: 338-354.

Researcher : Wong CC

List of Research Outputs

Wong C.C., Wang Y., Cheng K.W., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Comparative proteomic analysis of indioside D-triggered cell death in HeLa cells, Journal of Proteome Research. 2008, 7: 2050-2058.

Researcher : Wong KY

List of Research Outputs

Yeung H.Y., Wong K.Y., Lin M.C., Wong C.K., Mashima T., Tsuruo T. and Wong A.S.T., Chemosensitization by Manganese Superoxide Dismutase Inhibition is Caspase-9 Dependent and Involves Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase 1/2, British Journal of Cancer. 2008, 99: 283-293.

Researcher : Wu J

List of Research Outputs

Wu J., Cheng K.W., Li E.T.S., Wang M. and Ye W.C., Antibrowning activity of MRPs in enzyme and fresh-cut apple slice models, Food Chemistry . 2008, 109(2): 379-385.

Zheng Z., Cheng K.W., Chao J., Wu J. and Wang M., Tyrosinase inhibitors from paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), In: , Food Chemistry . 2008, 106(2): 529-535.

Researcher : Xiao S

List of Research Outputs

Xiao S., Li H. and Chye M.L., Autofluorescent-tagged Arabidopsis acyl-CoA binding proteins ACBP4 and ACBP5 are located in the cytosol, Proceedings of the 6th Cross-Strait Symposium on Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Hong Kong, July 2-8, 2007. p. 38. Invited talk. 2007.

Xiao S., Chen Q., Gao W., Ramalingam S. and Chye M.L., Overexpression of membrane-associated acyl-CoA-binding protein ACBP1 enhances lead tolerance in Arabidopsis, Plant Journal. 2008, 54: 141-151.

Xiao S. and Chye M.L., Phytoremediation, Innovation Expo 2007. September 14-18, 2007. HKU Pavilion: Dreams Unlimited. Energy and Environment Zone 5 Project 6. Exhibition organized by the Innovation and Technology Commission, Hall 1, Phase II, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Wanchai. 2007.

Xiao S. and Chye M.L., The Arabidopsis extracellular acyl-coenzyme-A-binding protein ACBP3 is involved in plant defense responses, International Conference on Biotic Plant Interactions, Brisbane March 27-29, 2008. www.uq.au/plants/icbpi/. 2008.

Xiao S. and Chye M.L., Arabidopsis acyl-coenzyme-A binding proteins - An overview, The 2nd Asian Symposium on Plant Lipids, Tokyo, Japan, November 29 to December 2, 2007. Session 4, p. 37. Invited talk.. 2007.

Researcher : Xu RJ

Project Title:	A study on the physiological role of transforming growth factor [beta] in postnatal adaptation of the gastrointestinal tract in neonatal pigs
Investigator(s):	Xu RJ
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Small Project Funding
Start Date:	11/2003

Abstract:

To investigate the possible physiological role of TGF-[beta] in regulation of postnatal adaptation of the gastrointestinal tract in neonatal animals.

Project Title:	Postnatal adaptation of the gastrointestinal tract in neonatal pigs: a possible role of transforming growth factor-[beta]
Investigator(s):	Xu RJ
Department:	Zoology
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	12/2003

Abstract:

To examine concentration changes of TGF-[beta] in milk during the lactation; to study chemical properties of TGF-[beta] in milk; to examine the stability of milk-borne TGF-[beta] in the GI lumen; to study the development changes of endogenous production of TGF-[beta] in the GI tract; to study the effects of milk on intestinal mutation in newborn piglets; to study the endogenous production of TGF-D and its receptors in the gastrointestinal tract in early-weaned piglets.

List of Research Outputs

Li W., Zhu H.P., Bao W., Fu H.J., Li Z., Liu X.P., Xu R.J., Zhao J. and Zhang Y.Q., Cellular Physiology and Biochemisry, Involvement of Metastasis Tumor Antigen 1 in Hepatic Regeneration and Proliferation. 2008, 22: 315-326.

Li W., Liu X.P., Xu R.J. and Zhang Y.Q., Immunolocalization assessment of metastasis-associated protein 1 in human and mouse mature testes and its association with spermatogenesis, Asian Journal of Andrology . 2007, 9: 345-352.

Researcher : Xu Y

List of Research Outputs

Xu Y., Chiu J., He Q. and Chen S.F., Proteomics approach to study the cytotoxicity of Tubeimoside I, Abstract book of the CNHUPO 5th Annual Congress & the First Guangdong-Hong Kong Proteomics Forum, 20-22 August, Guangzhou. 2007, p. 65.

Researcher : Yan HHN

List of Research Outputs

Yan H.H.N., Mruk D.D., Lee W.W.M. and Cheng C.Y., Blood-testis barrier dynamics are regulated by testosterone and cytokines via their differential effects on the kinetics of protein endocytosis and recycling in Sertoli cells. , FASEB J. 2008, 22: 1945-69.

Yan H.H.N., Mruk D.D. and Cheng C.Y., Junction restructuring and spermatogenesis: the biology, regulation, and implication in male contraceptive development, Curr Top Dev Biol. 2008, 80: 57-92.

Researcher : Yau CST

Project Title:	Phylogeography and population structure of the loliginid squids Uroteuthis (Photologligo) edulisland U. (P.) chinensis in the South China Sea
Investigator(s):	Yau CST
Department:	Ecology & Biodiversity
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2006

Abstract:

The loliginid squids, Uroteuthis (Photololigo) edulis and U. (P.) chinensis are commercially important species that dominate cephalopod catches in the South China Sea, yet few studies have been conducted on them. These two nominal species are extremely similar in external morphology, thus are difficult to distinguish, and the problem is further exacerbated by the confusion over the taxonomy of the loliginid family to which they belong. This study aims to verify whether they may in fact be conspecifics, or are two distinct sympatric species, or are two or more species harbouring cryptic taxa. Mitochondrial DNA analysis will be used to resolve the systematic and phylogenetic status of U. (P.) edulis and U. (P.) chinensis, and also to test if there are sufficient polymorphisms in the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidaseigene to enable population studies. Attempts will also be made to identify and develop microsatellite DNA loci specific for Uroteuthis (Photololigo) in order to detect whether there is any population variability in the fished stocks across the extensive geographic range of the two species, since other studies have shown that microstatellite DNA markers have proven to be more sensitive in the detection of differentiation at the population level.

List of Research Outputs

Morritt D., Leung K.M.Y., De Pirro M., Yau C.S.T., Wai T.C. and Williams G.A., Responses of the limpet, Cellana grata (Gould 1859), to hypo-osmotic stress during simulated tropical, monsoon rains, Journal of Experimental Marine Biology and Ecology. 2007, 352: 78-88.

Researcher : Yip WK

Project Title:	Physiological studies of tomato plants transformed with various antisense ACC synthase genes
Investigator(s):	Yip WK
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	09/2003

Abstract:

To examine the gene silencing effects of ACS2 and ACS4 on tomato fruit ripening and development; to examine the effects of ACS1a and ACS6 on System I ethylene biosynthesis during tomato fruit development and ripening; to investigate auxin-induced ethylene physiological impacts by gene silencing of ACS3 and ACS5 in tomatoes.

Project Title:	Functional characterization and subcellular localization of three ethylene receptors in rice
Investigator(s):	Yip WK, Yau CP
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Seed Funding Programme for Basic Research
Start Date:	01/2005

Abstract:

Ethylene is an important plant hormone which regulates a range of developmental and physiological process in plants. In the past decades, exceptional progress has been made on understanding the molecular mechanism controlling the ethylene signalling pathway which was shown to require membrane-associated ethylene receptors to function. In Arabidopsis, there are altogether five ethylene receptors which negatively regulate ethylene responses. However, little is known about the involvement of receptor genes in the ethylene perception of monocotyledonous plants such as rice. Recently, we have successfully isolated five putative ethylene receptor genes from rice and showed that their expression levels were regulated developmentally, and by various external stimuli including ethylene. Here we propose to functionally characterize three rice ethylene receptor genes, OS-ERS1, OS-ERS2 and OS-ETR2 in planta. Moreover recent studies on the subcellular localization of two ethylene receptors, At-ETR1 and NtHK1 (an ethylene receptor ortholog in tobacco) revealed that they were localized to endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane respectively. To understand more in detail how these three rice ethylene receptors function in cellular level, we propose to investigate their corresponding subcellular localization by fusing with fluorescent protein.

Project Title:	Characterization of a cyanide detoxification gene encoding L-3-cyanoalanine synthase (CAS), and determine its roles among the cysteine synthase (CS)/CAS family in the rice genome
Investigator(s):	Yip WK
Department:	Botany
Source(s) of Funding:	Competitive Earmarked Research Grants (CERG)
Start Date:	01/2007

Abstract:

(1) Study of OS-CAS transcription by promoter analyses; (2) heterologous expression of OS-CAS in bacteria dnd yeast to test its catalytic activity; and unravel the structure and function relationships between CS and CAS by site directed mutagenesis studies; (3) subcellular localization of OS-CAS by tagging it with the yellow fluorescent protein (YFP); (4) the roles of OS-CAS and CS on cyanide detoxification and cysteine synthesis in rice; to investigate whether quincorac or 2,4 D resistant in rice is conferred by OS-CAS.

List of Research Outputs

Lim B.L. and Yip W.K., Recombinant Bacillus phytases and uses thereof , 7,339,091. 2008, 7,339,091.

Researcher : Yu M

List of Research Outputs

Faan Y.W., Yu M. and Tsang J.S.H., Blue-white selection of regulatory genes that affect the expression of dehalogenase IVa of Burkholderia cepacia MBA4, Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. 2007, 76: 429-437.

Tsang J.S.H., Yu M., Faan Y.W. and Chung Y.K.W., Isolation and characterization of a novel haloacid permease from Burkholderia cepacia., FEBS Journal. 2007, 274 supplement 1: 118.

Tse Y.M., Yu M. and Tsang J.S.H., Topological analysis of a haloacid permease in a Burkholderia species. , FEBS Journal. 2007, 274 supplement 1: 118.

Yu M., Faan Y.W., Chung Y.K.W. and Tsang J.S.H., Isolation and characterization of a novel haloacid permease from Burkholderia cepacia MBA4., Applied and Environmental Microbiology. 2007, 73: 4874-4880.

Researcher : Yu X

List of Research Outputs

Yu X., Gu J.D. and Liu S., Biotransformation and metabolic response of cyanide in weeping willows, Journal of Hazardous Materials . New York, Elsevier, 2007, 147: 838-844.

Yu X. and Gu J.D., Effect of available nitrogen on phytoavailability and bioaccumualtion of hexavalent and trivalent chromium in hankow willows (Salix matsudana Koidz), Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety. Elsevier, 2008, 70: 216-222.

Yu X. and Gu J.D., Metabolic responses of weeping willows to selenate and selenite, Environmental Science and Pollution Research. Germany, Ecomed Publisher, 2007, 14: 510-517.

Yu X. and Gu J.D., The role of EDTA in phytoextraction of hexavalent and trivalent chromium by two willow trees, Ecotoxicology . New York, Springer, 2008, 17: 143-152.

Researcher : Zhang Q

List of Research Outputs

Bao W., Leung K.M.Y., Kwok W.H.K.P., Zhang Q. and Lui C.S.G., Synergistic toxic effects of zinc pyrithione and copper to three marine species: implications on setting appropriate water quality criteria, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 616-623.

Stauber J.L., Binet M.T., Boge J.A., Zhang Q., Bao W.W. and Leung K.M.Y., Comparison of the qwiklite algal bioluminescence bioassay with standard marine algal growth rate inhibition tests, The 13th International Symposium on Toxicity Assessment (ISTA), 19-24 August 2007, Toyama, Japan . 2007.

Zhang Q., Leung K.M.Y., Bao W., Kwok W.H.K.P. and Lam M.H.W., Toxicities of Irgarol 1051 and its major degradation product to marine primary producers, Marine Pollution Bulletin. 2008, 57: 575-586.

Researcher : Zhang Q

List of Research Outputs

Researcher : Zhang Y

List of Research Outputs

Chan E.K.W., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Arthropod ‘rain’ into tropical streams: the importance of intact riparian forest and influences on fish diets., Marine & Freshwater Research. 2008, 59: 653-660.

Chan E.K.W., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Contribution of adult aquatic insects to riparian prey availability along tropical forest streams., Marine & Freshwater Research. 2007, 58: 725-732.

Chan E.K.W., Tung Y. .-.T., Zhang Y. and Dudgeon D., Distribution patterns of birds and insect prey in a tropical riparian forest., Biotropica. 2008, 40: 623-629.

Researcher : Zheng Z

List of Research Outputs

Cheng K.W., Wu W.L., Zheng Z., Peng X., Simon J.E., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory Effect of Fruit Extracts on the Formation of Heterocyclic Amines, Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry . 2007, 55(25): 10359-10365.

Peng X., Zheng Z., Cheung K.W., Shan F., Ren G.X., Chen S.F. and Wang M., Inhibitory effect of mung bean extract and its constituents vitexin and isovitexin on the formation of advanced glycation endproducts , Food Chemistry. 2008, 106(2): 475-481.

Zheng Z., Cheng K.W., Chao J., Wu J. and Wang M., Tyrosinase inhibitors from paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera), In: , Food Chemistry . 2008, 106(2): 529-535.

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