Several polysilane block copolymers have been prepared by the newly developed method, anionic polymerization of masked disilenes. Especially amphiphilic block copolymers of poly(1,1-dimethyl-2,2-dihexyldisilene) and poly methacrylate are focused. Poly(1,1-dimethyl-2,2-dihexyldisilene)-b-poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PMHS-b-PHEMA) is the first example of the amphiphilic polysilane copolymer that can form micelles in polar solvents. Poly(1,1-dimethyl-2,2-dihexyldisilene)-b-poly(methacrylic acid) (PMHS-b-PMAA) is more polar than (PMHS-b-PHEMA), soluble in water to form micelles. The cross-linking reaction of (PMHS-b-PMAA) with 1,10-diaza-4,7-dioxadecane and 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)carbodiimide hydrochloride afforded the first shell cross-linked micelles (SCM) of polysilane. In addition to interesting properties, SCM is indicated to be able to form hollow sphere particles (hollow shell cross-linked micelles, HSCM) by a photochemical process. Reversible encapsulation of guest molecules by SCM and HSCM is demonstrated. Finally, SCM can be used as the template for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles, which may be used as catalysts.

(Communicated by Teruaki MUKAIYAMA, M.J.A.)

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A new term, spherophylon, indicates a unit of life higher than the individual level. To define this term, critical notes are given on the meaning of age in terms of life, the interrelationships among the elements of biodiversity, and an analogy of development between the multicellular body of an individual and the spherophylon. Life is compared at various levels; at the level of the cell, the individual as a multicellular organism, and the spherophylon. The biology of the spherophylon is discussed in the context of integrative biology.

(Communicated by Yasuyuki YAMADA, M.J.A.)

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Certain types of DNA lesions, produced through cellular metabolic processes and also by external environmental stresses, are responsible for the induction of mutations as well as of cancer. Most of these lesions can be eliminated by DNA repair enzymes, and cells carrying the remaining DNA lesions are subjected to apoptosis. The persistence of damaged bases in RNA can cause errors in gene expression, and the cells appear to possess a mechanism which can prevent damaged RNA molecules from entering the translation process. We have investigated these processes for high fidelity of DNA replication and gene expression, by using both biochemical and genetic means. We herein describe (1) the molecular mechanisms for accurate DNA synthesis, (2) mammalian proteins for sanitizing the DNA precursor pool, (3) error avoidance mechanisms for gene expression under oxidative stress, and (4) the roles of DNA repair and apoptosis in the prevention of cancer.

(Communicated by Takao SEKIYA, M.J.A.)

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Many kinds of venomous principles modulate physiological responses of mammalian signal transduction systems, on which they act selectively as enhancers, inhibitors or some other kind of effectors. These toxins become useful tools for physiological research. We have employed and characterized paralyzing toxins from the venom of spiders, insects and scorpions with a limited supply. We have developed rapid and sensitive mass spectrometric technology and applied for the identification of these toxins. Venom profiles are screened by MALDI-TOF fingerprinting analysis prior to purification of venomous components, then marked target toxins of small molecular mass (1000-5000) are characterized directly by means of mass spectrometric techniques such as Frit-FAB MS/MS, CID/PSD-TOF MS, Capil.-HPLC/Q-TOF MS/MS etc.

(Communicated by Takao SEKIYA, M.J.A.)

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