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Release of nanometer-sized prostasomes into human and equine semen suggests essential functions in their relationships with sperm cells and the fertilization process. The two types of prostasomes displayed ultrastructural similarities, albeit the human prostasomes were somewhat larger than the stallion prostasomes. A high ratio of saturated fatty acids was characteristic for the two prostasome types. Electrophoretic separation systems revealed an equine prostasomal pattern different from that of human. The 21 distinctive low molecular weight protein spots in the 2D-gel (with no counterparts in human prostasomes) were identified via peptide mass fingerprinting, several of which may be different isoforms. Out of the three high molecular weight bands characteristic for human prostasomes (CD10, CD13, and CD26), CD10 and CD13 were retrieved in equine prostasomes. We present some new proteins of horse prostasomes not found in their human counterparts. Further studies are warranted to reveal the function of these proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is an acute phase marker, which is produced at the site of infection or inflammation in contrast to CRP that is mainly synthesized by the liver. The aim of the present study was to see if lifestyle interventions/weight loss would lead to decreased blood plasma concentrations of PTX3. Methods. Study subjects ( n = 31) were recruited to a lifestyle intervention program aiming at increased physical activity, improved eating habits, and weight loss. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) and PTX3 methods were used for analysis of CRP and PTX3 in plasma samples collected at inclusion and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. Results. Wilcoxon paired samples test showed a significant decrease in PTX3 concentrations from 2068 pg/mL at start to 2007 pg/mL at 4 weeks ( P = 0.002) and 1748 pg/mL at 8 weeks ( P = 0.003). The PTX3 decrease was not significantly correlated with a corresponding decrease in CRP or weight reduction. Conclusions. The lifestyle intervention program resulted in a significant reduction of circulating concentrations of pentraxin 3 already after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]