No abstract

Presenilin (PS) is essential for the ␥-cleavage required for the generation of the C terminus of amyloid ␤-protein (A␤). However, the mechanism underlying PS-mediated ␥-cleavage remains unclear. We have identified Herp cDNA by our newly developed screening method for the isolation of cDNAs that increase the degree of ␥-cleavage. Herp was originally identified as a homocysteine-responsive protein, and its expression is up-regulated by endoplasmic reticulum stress. Herp is an endoplasmic reticulum-localized membrane protein that has a ubiquitin-like domain. Here, we report that a high expression of Herp in cells increases the level of A␤ generation, although not in PS-deficient cells. We found that Herp interacts with both PS1 and PS2. Thus, Herp regulates PS-mediated A␤ generation, possibly through its binding to PS. Immunohistochemical analysis of a normal human brain section with an anti-Herp antibody revealed the exclusive staining of neurons and vascular smooth muscle cells. Moreover, the antibody strongly stained activated microglia in senile plaques in the brain of patients with Alzheimer disease. Taken together, Herp could be involved in A␤ accumulation, including the formation of senile plaques and vascular A␤ deposits.

N-3DP significantly increased the erythrocyte membrane n-3/n-6 ratio in IBD patients, and this ratio was significantly higher in the remission group, suggesting that n-3DP alters the fatty acid composition of the cell membrane and influences clinical activity in IBD patients.

Herp is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)-stress-inducible membrane protein, which has a ubiquitin-like domain (ULD). However, its biological function is as yet unknown. Previously, we reported that a high expression level of Herp in cells increases the generation of amyloid L L-protein (AL L) and that Herp interacts with presenilin (PS). Here, we addressed the role of the ULD of Herp in AL L generation and intracellular Herp stability. We found that the ULD is not essential for the enhancement of AL L generation by Herp expression and the interaction of Herp with PS, but is involved in the rapid degradation of Herp, most likely via the ubiquitin/proteasome pathway. Thus, the ULD of Herp most likely plays a role in the regulation of the intracellular level of Herp under ER stress.

Anguillid eels are found globally in fresh, transitional and saline waters and have played an important role in human life for centuries. The population status of several species is now of significant concern. The threats to populations include direct exploitation at different life stages, blockages to migratory routes by dams and other structures, changes in river basin management that impact habitat carrying capacity and suitability, pollution, climate change, diseases and parasites. While much has been done to understand eel biology and ecology, a major challenge is to identify the key research and management questions so that effective and targeted studies can be designed to inform conservation, management and policy. We gathered 30 experts in the field of eel biology and management to review the current state of knowledge for anguillid eel species and to identify the main topics for research. The identified research topics fell into three themes: (a) Lifecycle and Biology; (b) Impacts and (c) Management. Although tropical anguillid eels are by far the least well understood, significant knowledge gaps exist for all species. Considerable progress has been made in the last 20 years, but the status of many species remains of great concern, particularly for northern temperate species. Without improved engagement and coordination at the regional, national and international level, the situation is unlikely to improve. Further, adaptive management mechanisms to respond to developments in science, policy and our knowledge of potential threats are required to ensure the future of these important and enigmatic species.