University of Bedfordshire

About: University of Bedfordshire is a education organization based out in Luton, Bedford, United Kingdom. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Social work. The organization has 3860 authors who have published 6079 publications receiving 143448 citations. The organization is also known as: University of Luton.

Hapten–protein binding: from theory to practical application in the in vitro prediction of skin sensitization

Abstract: In view of the forthcoming European Union ban on in vivo testing of cosmetic and toiletry ingredients, following the publication of the 7th amendment to the Cosmetics Directive, the search for practical, alternative, non-animal approaches is gathering pace. For the end-point of skin sensitization, the ultimate goal, i.e. the development and validation of alternative in vitro/in silico assays by 2013, may be achieved through a better understanding of the skin sensitization process on the cellular and molecular levels. One of the key molecular events in skin sensitization is protein haptenation, i.e. the chemical modification of self-skin protein(s) thus forming macromolecular immunogens. This concept is widely accepted and in theory can be used to explain the sensitizing capacity of many known skin sensitizers. Thus, the principle of protein or peptide haptenation could be used in in vitro assays to predict the sensitization potential of a new chemical entity. In this review, we consider some of the theoretical aspects of protein haptenation, how mechanisms of protein haptenation can be investigated experimentally and how we can use such knowledge in the development of novel, alternative approaches for predicting skin sensitization potential in the future.

Mechanisms of survival, responses and sources of Salmonella in low-moisture environments.

Abstract: Some Enterobacteriaceae possess the ability to survive in low-moisture environments for extended periods of time. Many of the reported food-borne outbreaks associated with low-moisture foods involve Salmonella contamination. The control of Salmonella in low-moisture foods and their production environments represents a significant challenge for all food manufacturers. This review summarises the current state of knowledge with respect to Salmonella survival in intermediate- and low-moisture food matrices and their production environments. The mechanisms utilised by this bacterium to ensure their survival in these dry conditions remain to be fully elucidated, however in depth transcriptiomic data is now beginning to emerge regarding this observation. Earlier research work described the effect(s) that low-moisture can exert on the long-term persistence and heat tolerance of Salmonella, however, data are also now available highlighting the potential cross-tolerance to other stressors including commonly used microbicidal agents. Sources and potential control measures to reduce the risk of contamination will be explored. By extending our understanding of these geno- and phenotypes, we may be able to exploit them to improve food safety and protect public health.

Elevated retinol-binding protein 4 levels are associated with metabolic syndrome in Chinese people.

Abstract: Context: High retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) is thought to be associated with insulin resistance in humans. However, evidence from large-scale populations about the relationship between RBP4 and metabolic diseases is scarce. Objective: We evaluated plasma RBP4 distribution and its association with metabolic syndrome (MetS) among middle-aged and older Chinese. Research Design and Methods: We evaluated plasma RBP4 in a cross-sectional sample of 3289 Chinese aged from 50 to 70 yr in Beijing and Shanghai by using an in-house developed and validated sandwich ELISA. MetS was defined according to the updated National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria for Asian-Americans. Results: RBP4 levels were higher in male and Beijing residents, compared with female and Shanghai participants (both P < 0.001). RBP4 levels were associated positively with body mass index, waist circumference, triglycerides, total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, blood pressure, fasting insulin, and home...