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Mahmoodi S, Amirzakaria JZ, Ghasemian A. A novel multi-epitope peptide vaccine targeting immunogenic antigens of Ebola and monkeypox viruses with potential of immune responses provocation in silico. Biotechnol Appl Biochem 2024. [PMID: 39128888 DOI: 10.1002/bab.2646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
The emergence or reemergence of monkeypox (Mpox) and Ebola virus (EBOV) agents causing zoonotic diseases remains a huge threat to human health. Our study aimed at designing a multi-epitope vaccine (MEV) candidate to target both the Mpox and EBOV agents using immunoinformatics tools. Viral protein sequences were retrieved, and potential nonallergenic, nontoxic, and antigenic epitopes were obtained. Next, cytotoxic and helper T-cell (CTL and HTL, respectively) and B-cell (BCL) epitopes were predicted, and those potential epitopes were fused utilizing proper linkers. The in silico cloning and expression processes were implemented using Escherichia coli K12. The immune responses were prognosticated using the C-ImmSim server. The MEV construct (29.53 kDa) included four BCL, two CTL, and four HTL epitopes and adjuvant. The MEV traits were pertinent in terms of antigenicity, non-allergenicity, nontoxicity, physicochemical characters, and stability. The MEV candidate was also highly expressed in E. coli K12. The strong affinity of MEV-TLR3 was confirmed using molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation analyses. Immune simulation analyses unraveled durable activation and responses of cellular and humoral arms alongside innate immune responses. The designed MEV candidate demonstrated appropriate traits and was promising in the prediction of immune responses against both Mpox and EBOV agents. Further experimental assessments of the MEV are required to verify its efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Mahmoodi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Javad Zamani Amirzakaria
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abdolmajid Ghasemian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
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Gutierrez WR, Luo Y, Dahmoush L, Oleson JJ, Schlaepfer CH, Breyer BN, Elliott SP, Myers JB, Vanni AJ, Juhr D, Christel KN, Erickson BA. Deep Phenotyping the Anterior Urethral Stricture: Characterizing the Relationship Between Inflammation, Fibrosis, Patient History, and Disease Pathophysiology. J Urol 2024; 212:153-164. [PMID: 38593413 PMCID: PMC11166509 DOI: 10.1097/ju.0000000000003962] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Anterior urethral stricture disease (aUSD) is a complex, heterogeneous condition that is idiopathic in origin for most men. This gap in knowledge rarely affects the current management strategy for aUSD, as urethroplasty does not generally consider etiology. However, as we transition towards personalized, minimally invasive treatments for aUSD and begin to consider aUSD prevention strategies, disease pathophysiology will become increasingly important. The purpose of this study was to perform a deep phenotype of men undergoing anterior urethroplasty for aUSD. We hypothesized that unique biologic signatures and potential targets for intervention would emerge based on stricture presence/absence, stricture etiology, and the presence/absence of stricture inflammation. MATERIALS AND METHODS Men with aUSD undergoing urethroplasty were recruited from one of 5 participating centers. Enrollees provided urethral stricture tissue and blood/serum on the day of surgery and completed patient-reported outcome measure questionnaires both pre- and postoperatively. The initial study had 3 aims: (1) to determine pediatric and adult subacute and repeated perineal trauma (SRPT) exposures using a study-specific SRPT questionnaire, (2) to determine the degree of inflammation and fibrosis in aUSD and peri-aUSD (normal urethra) tissue, and (3) to determine levels of systemic inflammatory and fibrotic cytokines. Two controls groups provided serum (normal vasectomy patients) and urethral tissue (autopsy patients). Cohorts were based on the presence/absence of stricture, by presumed stricture etiology (idiopathic, traumatic/iatrogenic, lichen sclerosus [LS]), and by the presence/absence of stricture inflammation. RESULTS Of 138 enrolled men (120 tissue/serum; 18 stricture tissue only), 78 had idiopathic strictures, 33 had trauma-related strictures, and 27 had LS-related strictures. BMI, stricture length, and stricture location significantly differed between cohorts (P < .001 for each). The highest BMIs and the longest strictures were observed in the LS cohort. SRPT exposures did not significantly differ between etiology cohorts, with > 60% of each reporting low/mild risk. Stricture inflammation significantly differed between cohorts, with mild to severe inflammation present in 27% of trauma-related strictures, 54% of idiopathic strictures, and 48% of LS strictures (P = .036). Stricture fibrosis did not significantly differ between cohorts (P = .7). Three serum cytokines were significantly higher in patients with strictures compared to stricture-free controls: interleukin-9 (IL-9; P = .001), platelet-derived growth factor-BB (P = .004), and CCL5 (P = .01). No differences were observed in the levels of these cytokines based on stricture etiology. However, IL-9 levels were significantly higher in patients with inflamed strictures than in patients with strictures lacking inflammation (P = .019). Degree of stricture inflammation positively correlated with serum levels of IL-9 (Spearman's rho 0.224, P = .014). CONCLUSIONS The most common aUSD etiology is idiopathic. Though convention has implicated SRPT as causative for idiopathic strictures, here we found that patients with idiopathic strictures had low SRPT rates that were similar to rates in patients with a known stricture etiology. Stricture and stricture-adjacent inflammation in idiopathic stricture were similar to LS strictures, suggesting shared pathophysiologic mechanisms. IL-9, platelet-derived growth factor-BB, and CCL5, which were elevated in patients with strictures, have been implicated in fibrotic conditions elsewhere in the body. Further work will be required to determine if this shared biologic signature represents a potential mechanism for an aUSD predisposition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wade R. Gutierrez
- University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Department of Urology
| | - Yi Luo
- University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Department of Urology
| | - Laila Dahmoush
- University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Department of Pathology
| | - Jacob J. Oleson
- University of Iowa, College of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics
| | | | | | | | - Jeremy B. Myers
- University of Utah, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology
| | | | - Denise Juhr
- University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine, Department of Urology
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Del Carmen Camacho-Rea M, Martínez-Gómez LE, Martinez-Armenta C, Martínez-Nava GA, Ortega-Peña S, Olea-Torres J, Herrera-López B, Suarez-Ahedo C, Vázquez-Cárdenas P, Vidal-Vázquez RP, Ramírez-Hinojosa JP, Vargas-Alarcón G, Posadas-Sánchez R, Fragoso JM, De Jesús Martínez-Ruiz F, Zayago-Angeles DM, Mata-Miranda MM, Vazquez-Zapien GJ, Martínez-Cuazitl A, Garcia-Galicia A, Granados J, Ramos L, Rodríguez-Pérez JM, Pineda C, López-Reyes A. Association of TLR8 Variants in Sex-Based Clinical Differences in Patients with COVID-19. Biochem Genet 2024:10.1007/s10528-024-10839-w. [PMID: 38814383 DOI: 10.1007/s10528-024-10839-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The host immune response might confer differential vulnerability to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The Toll-like receptor 8 (TLR8), could participated for severe COVID-19 outcomes. To investigated the relationship of TLR8 rs3764879-C/G, rs3764880-A/G, and rs3761624-A/G with COVID-19 outcomes and with biochemical parameters. A cross-sectional study of 830 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 patients was performed, and classified into mild, severe, critical, and deceased outcomes. The TLR8 rs3764879-C/G, rs3764880-A/G, and rs3761624-A/G polymorphisms were genotyped. A logistic regression analysis was performed to determinate the association with COVID-19. A stratified analysis was by alleles was done with clinical and metabolic markets. In all outcomes, men presented the highest ferritin levels compared to women (P < 0.001). LDH levels were significantly different between sex in mild (P = 0.003), severe (P < 0.001) and deceased (P = 0.01) COVID-19 outcomes. The GGG haplotype showed an Odds Ratio of 1.55 (Interval Confidence 95% 1.05-2.32; P = 0.03) in men. Among patients with severe outcome, we observed that the carriers of the GGG haplotype had lower Ferritin, C-reactive protein and LDH levels than the CAA carriers (P < 0.01). After further stratified by sex, these associations were also seen in the male patients, except for D-dimer. Interestingly, among men patients, we could observe associations between TLR8 haplotypes and Ferritin (P < 0.001), D-dimer (P = 0.04), C-reactive protein, and Lactate dehydrogenase in mild (P = 0.04) group. Our results suggest that even though TLR8 haplotypes show a significant association with COVID-19 outcomes, they are associated with clinical markers in COVID-19 severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Del Carmen Camacho-Rea
- Departamento de Nutrición Animal, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, CDMX, México
| | - Laura Edith Martínez-Gómez
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México
| | - Carlos Martinez-Armenta
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México
| | - Gabriela Angélica Martínez-Nava
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México
| | - Silvestre Ortega-Peña
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México
| | - Jessel Olea-Torres
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México
| | - Brígida Herrera-López
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México
| | - Carlos Suarez-Ahedo
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México
| | - Paola Vázquez-Cárdenas
- Centro de Innovación Médica Aplicada, Subdirección de Epidemiología E Infectología, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, CDMX, México
| | - Rosa P Vidal-Vázquez
- Centro de Innovación Médica Aplicada, Subdirección de Epidemiología E Infectología, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, CDMX, México
| | - Juan Pablo Ramírez-Hinojosa
- Centro de Innovación Médica Aplicada, Subdirección de Epidemiología E Infectología, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, CDMX, México
| | - Gilberto Vargas-Alarcón
- Centro de Innovación Médica Aplicada, Subdirección de Epidemiología E Infectología, Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, CDMX, México
| | | | - José Manuel Fragoso
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Instituto Nacional de Cardiología Ignacio Chávez, CDMX, México
| | - Felipe De Jesús Martínez-Ruiz
- Nuevo Hospital General Delegación Regional Sur de La Ciudad de México, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales Para los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE), CDMX, México
| | - Dulce María Zayago-Angeles
- Nuevo Hospital General Delegación Regional Sur de La Ciudad de México, Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales Para los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE), CDMX, México
| | - Mónica Maribel Mata-Miranda
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Tisular, Laboratorio de Embriología, Escuela Militar de Medicina, Universidad del Ejército y Fuerza Aérea, CDMX, México
| | - Gustavo Jesús Vazquez-Zapien
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Tisular, Laboratorio de Embriología, Escuela Militar de Medicina, Universidad del Ejército y Fuerza Aérea, CDMX, México
| | - Adriana Martínez-Cuazitl
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Tisular, Laboratorio de Embriología, Escuela Militar de Medicina, Universidad del Ejército y Fuerza Aérea, CDMX, México
| | - Armando Garcia-Galicia
- Servicio de Cirugía General, Hospital Central Norte Petróleos Mexicanos (PEMEX), CDMX, México
| | - Julio Granados
- Departamento de Trasplantes, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, CDMX, México
| | - Luis Ramos
- Departamento de Trasplantes, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, CDMX, México
| | | | - Carlos Pineda
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México
| | - Alberto López-Reyes
- Unidad de Gerociencias, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra Calz México-Xochimilco 289, Coapa, Col. Arenal de Guadalupe, Tlalpan, 14389, CDMX, México.
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Sepahi N, Samsami S, Mansoori Y, Chenari M, Namavari N, Yazdanpanah A, Ghasemian A, Montaseri Z, Sharifzadeh M, Ranjbar R, Namavari S, Ghanbariasad A. Development of a novel Colorimetric Assay for the rapid diagnosis of Coronavirus disease 2019 from nasopharyngeal samples. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12125. [PMID: 38802360 PMCID: PMC11130264 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53747-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Emergence of Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has posed a huge threat to public health. Rapid and reliable test to diagnose infected subjects is crucial for disease spread control. We developed a colorimetric test for COVID-19 detection using a Colorimetric Assay based on thiol-linked RNA modified gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and oligonucleotide probes. This method was conducted on RNA from 200 pharyngeal swab samples initially tested by Real-Time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) as gold standard. A specific oligonucleotide probe designed based on ORF1ab of COVID-19 was functionalized with AuNPs-probe conjugate. The exposure of AuNP-probe to isolated RNA samples was tested using hybridization. In this comparative study, the colorimetric functionalized AuNPs assay exhibited a detection limit of 25 copies/µL. It was higher in comparison to the RT-PCR method, which could only detect 15 copies/µL. The results demonstrated 100% specificity and 96% sensitivity for the developed method. Herein, we developed an incredibly rapid, simple and cost-effective Colorimetric Assay lasting approximately 30 min which could process considerably higher number of COVID-19 samples compared to the RT-PCR. This AuNP-probe conjugate colorimetric method could be considered the optimum alternatives for conventional diagnostic tools especially in over-populated and/or low-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Sepahi
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Sahar Samsami
- Student Research Committee, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Yaser Mansoori
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Maryam Chenari
- Department of Virology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Negin Namavari
- School of Medicine Grenada, St. George's University, St. George's, West Indies, Grenada
| | - Ava Yazdanpanah
- Student Research Committee, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Abdolmajid Ghasemian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Zahra Montaseri
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Science, Fasa, Iran
| | - Mahboobeh Sharifzadeh
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Razie Ranjbar
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Sahar Namavari
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, School of Advanced Technologies, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Avicenna Square, Fasa, Fars, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Ali Ghanbariasad
- Department of Medical Biotechnologies, School of Advanced Technologies, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Avicenna Square, Fasa, Fars, Islamic Republic of Iran.
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Elemam NM, Bouzid A, Alsafar H, Ahmed SBM, Hafezi S, Venkatachalam T, Eldohaji L, Al Hamidi T, Gerges PH, Halabi N, Hadj-Kacem H, Talaat IM, Taneera J, Sulaiman N, Maghazachi AA, Hamid Q, Hamoudi R, Saber-Ayad M. Association of specific ACE2 and TMPRSS2 variants with circulatory cytokines of COVID-19 Emirati patients. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1348229. [PMID: 38855114 PMCID: PMC11157456 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1348229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic represented one of the most significant challenges to researchers and healthcare providers. Several factors determine the disease severity, whereas none alone can explain the tremendous variability. The Single nucleotide variants (SNVs) in angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE2) and transmembrane serine protease type-2 (TMPRSS2) genes affect the virus entry and are considered possible risk factors for COVID-19. Methods We compiled a panel of gene variants from both genes and used in-silico analysis to predict their significance. We performed biological validation to assess their capacity to alter the ACE2 interaction with the virus spike protein. Subsequently, we conducted a retrospective comparative genome analysis on those variants in the Emirati patients with different disease severity (total of 96) along with 69 healthy control subjects. Results Our results showed that the Emirati population lacks the variants that were previously reported as associated with disease severity, whereas a new variant in ACE2 "Chr X:g.15584534" was associated with disease severity specifically among female patients. In-silico analysis revealed that the new variant can determine the ACE2 gene transcription. Several cytokines (GM-CSF and IL-6) and chemokines (MCP-1/CCL2, IL-8/CXCL8, and IP-10/CXCL10) were markedly increased in COVID-19 patients with a significant correlation with disease severity. The newly reported genetic variant of ACE2 showed a positive correlation with CD40L, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-15, and IL-17A in COVID-19 patients. Conclusion Whereas COVID-19 represents now a past pandemic, our study underscores the importance of genetic factors specific to a population, which can influence both the susceptibility to viral infections and the level of severity; subsequently expected required preparedness in different areas of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha M. Elemam
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Amal Bouzid
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Habiba Alsafar
- Center for Biotechnology, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Emirates Bio-Research Centre, Ministry of Interior, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Samrein BM Ahmed
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences, Department of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Shirin Hafezi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Thenmozhi Venkatachalam
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Physiology and Immunology College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Leen Eldohaji
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Tasneem Al Hamidi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Peter Habib Gerges
- School of Information Technology and Computer Science (ITCS), Nile University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nour Halabi
- Al Jalila Genomics Center of Excellence, Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hassen Hadj-Kacem
- Department of Applied Biology, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Iman M. Talaat
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Jalal Taneera
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Nabil Sulaiman
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Azzam A. Maghazachi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Qutayba Hamid
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Meakins-Christie Laboratories, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Rifat Hamoudi
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maha Saber-Ayad
- Research Institute for Medical and Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- College of Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
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Noureddine R, Baba H, Aqillouch S, Abounouh K, Laazaazia O, Elmessaoudi-Idrissi M, Bahmani FZ, Tanouti IA, Ouladlahsen A, Sarih M, Dehbi H, Ezzikouri S. The Interleukin-6 gene variants may protect against SARS-CoV-2 infection and the severity of COVID-19: a case-control study in a Moroccan population. BMC Med Genomics 2024; 17:139. [PMID: 38783290 PMCID: PMC11112821 DOI: 10.1186/s12920-024-01911-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The symptoms of SARS-CoV-2 infection vary widely, ranging from asymptomatic cases to severe forms marked by acute respiratory distress syndrome, multi-organ damage, and fatalities. Studies indicate a correlation between specific genes and susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection and disease severity, particularly involving variants in genes linked to inflammation and immune responses. The objective of this study is to investigate the association between rs1800795 (- 174 G > C) and rs1800797 (- 597 A > G) variants in the interleukin-6 (IL-6) promoter region and susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Additionally, we aim to explore their correlation with COVID-19 severity in a Moroccan population. In this case-control study, we enrolled 270 unvaccinated COVID-19 patients, consisting of 132 with severe COVID-19 and 138 with asymptomatic-moderate COVID-19. Additionally, we included 339 SARS-CoV-2-negative group. Genotyping of rs1800795 and rs1800797 polymorphisms of the IL-6 gene was performed using predesigned TaqMan SNP genotyping. The median age of SARS-CoV-2-negative controls was 50 years, while severe COVID-19 cases exhibited a median age of 61 years. Additionally, individuals with asymptomatic to moderate COVID-19 had a median age of 36 years. We observed a significant age difference between severe and mild COVID-19 patients (p < 0.0001), and an association was noted between gender and the severity of COVID-19 (p = 0.011). The allele and genotype frequencies of the IL-6 - 597G > A and - 174G > C variants did not show significant associations with susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 infection (p > 0.05). However, further analysis revealed that the linkage disequilibrium between rs1800797 and rs1800795 indicated that individuals with the GC* haplotype (OR = 0.04, 95% CI 0.01-0.30, p = 0.001) and AG* haplotype (OR = 0.11, 95% CI 0.03-0.46, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Moreover, in the overdominant model, the IL-6 - 174 G/C genotype was found to be protective against the development of severe disease compared to those with the G/G-C/C genotypes (p = 0.03; OR = 0.41, 95% CI 0.18-0.96). However, correlations between complete blood count markers, hematological markers, D-dimer, C-reactive protein, and ferritin levels according to - 597 A > G and - 174G > C genotypes showed no significant differences (all p > 0.05). Our findings provide valuable insights into the pathogenesis of COVID-19, suggesting that genetic variations at the IL-6 gene may contribute to the susceptibility to severe SARS-CoV-2 infection within the Moroccan population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachid Noureddine
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca, 20360, Maroc
- Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Pathology, Medical School, University Hassan II, Casablanca, Maroc
- Laboratoire Morizgo d'analyses médicales, Casablanca, Maroc
| | - Hanâ Baba
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca, 20360, Maroc
| | - Safaa Aqillouch
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca, 20360, Maroc
| | - Karima Abounouh
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca, 20360, Maroc
| | - Oumaima Laazaazia
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca, 20360, Maroc
| | - Mohcine Elmessaoudi-Idrissi
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca, 20360, Maroc
| | | | - Ikram Allah Tanouti
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca, 20360, Maroc
| | - Ahd Ouladlahsen
- Service des maladies Infectieuses, CHU Ibn Rochd, Casablanca, Maroc
| | - M'hammed Sarih
- Service de Parasitologie et des Maladies Vectorielles, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Hind Dehbi
- Laboratory of Genetics and Molecular Pathology, Medical School, University Hassan II, Casablanca, Maroc
| | - Sayeh Ezzikouri
- Virology Unit, Viral Hepatitis Laboratory, Institut Pasteur du Maroc, 1 Place Louis Pasteur, Casablanca, 20360, Maroc.
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7
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Elgedawy GA, Elabd NS, Salem RH, Awad SM, Amer AA, Torayah MM, El-Koa AA, Abozeid M, Montaser BA, Aboshabaan HS, Abdelkreem M, Helal ML. FURIN, IFNL4, and TLR2 gene polymorphisms in relation to COVID-19 severity: a case-control study in Egyptian patients. Infection 2024:10.1007/s15010-024-02266-1. [PMID: 38703289 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-024-02266-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM A wide range of clinical manifestations and outcomes, including liver injury, have been reported in COVID-19 patients. We investigated the association of three substantial gene polymorphisms (FURIN, IFNL4, and TLR2) with COVID-19 disease susceptibility and severity to help predict prognosis. METHODS 150 adult COVID-19-assured cases were categorized as follows: 78 patients with a non-severe presentation, 39 patients with severe disease, and 33 critically ill patients. In addition, 74 healthy controls were included. Clinical and laboratory evaluations were carried out, including complete and differential blood counts, D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), procalcitonin, ferritin, interleukin-6 (Il-6), and liver and kidney functions. FURIN (rs6226), IFNL4 (rs12979860), and TLR2 (rs3804099) genotyping allelic discrimination assays were conducted using real-time PCR. RESULTS The FURIN, IFNL4, and TLR2 genotypes and their alleles differed significantly between COVID-19 patients and controls, as well as between patients with severe or critical illness and those with a non-severe presentation. According to a multivariable regression analysis, FURIN (C/T + T/T) and TLR2 (T/C + C/C) mutants were associated with COVID-19 susceptibility, with odds ratios of 3.293 and 2.839, respectively. FURIN C/C and IFNL4 T/T mutants were significantly linked to severe and critical illnesses. Multivariate regression analysis showed that FURIN (G/C + C/C) genotypes and IFNL4 T/T homozygosity were independent risk factors associated with increased mortality. CONCLUSION FURIN, IFNL4, and TLR2 gene variants are associated with the risk of COVID-19 occurrence as well as increased severity and poor outcomes in Egyptian patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gamalat A Elgedawy
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Naglaa S Elabd
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Tropical Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, 32511, Egypt.
| | - Radwa H Salem
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Samah M Awad
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Amany A Amer
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Tropical Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, 32511, Egypt
| | - Mohammad M Torayah
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Critical Care Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Egypt
| | - Amal A El-Koa
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Chest Diseases and Tuberculosis, Menoufia University, Shebin El‑Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Mai Abozeid
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, 32511, Egypt.
| | - Belal A Montaser
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Pathology, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Hind S Aboshabaan
- Ph.D. of Biochemistry, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
| | - Mervat Abdelkreem
- Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, 32511, Egypt
| | - Marwa L Helal
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin El-Kom, Menoufia, Egypt
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Alsayed BA, Mir R, Mir MM, Alnour TM, Fawzy S, M. Ahmed M, Amle D. Molecular Determination of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, Interleukin-8, Interleukin-10, and C-X-C Chemokine Receptor-2 Genetic Variations and their Association with Disease Susceptibility and Mortality in COVID-19 Patients. Curr Genomics 2024; 25:12-25. [PMID: 38544825 PMCID: PMC10964085 DOI: 10.2174/0113892029272497240103052359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Altered cytokine levels have been associated with poor outcomes among COVID-19 patients. TNF-α, IL-8 and IL-10 are key cytokines in COVID-19 pathogenesis, and CXCR-2 is a major chemokine receptor involved in inflammatory response. Polymorphisms in the genes of these proteins are proposed to influence disease outcomes. In this study, we aimed to find out the association of genetic polymorphisms in TNF-α, IL-8, IL-10 and CXCR-2 genes with susceptibility to and mortality of COVID-19. Methods The present case-control study was conducted on 230 subjects, among whom 115 were clinically diagnosed and RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients and 115 healthy control subjects. The polymorphisms in TNFα -308 G>A (rs1800629), IL-8 -251T>A (rs4073), CXCR2 +785 C>T (rs2230054) genes were detected by ARMS -PCR assay whereas for IL-10 (-1082 G>A), rs1800896 G>A allele-specific PCR assay was used and their association with COVID-19 susceptibility and mortality was estimated by multivariate analysis. The results were analyzed for risk of infection and mortality through different inheritance models. Results Frequencies of TNF-α rs1800629 GA, AA, IL-8 rs4073 TA, AA, IL-10 (-1082 G>A), rs1800896 GA and GG, and CXCR2 rs2230054 CT genotypes were significantly higher in COVID-19 patients compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, COVID-19 patients had a higher frequency of the polymorphic A allele of TNF-α, the A allele of IL-8, the G allele of IL-10, and the T allele of CXCR2. The risk of susceptibility to COVID-19 was significantly associated with TNF-α rs1800629 GA, GA+AA genotypes and the A allele, IL-8 rs4073 TA, AA genotypes and A allele, IL-10 rs1800872 GA and CC genotypes and C allele, and CXCR2 rs2230054 CT and CT+CC genotypes. TNF-α-GA and AA genotypes and A allele, IL-8 TA and AA genotypes and A allele and CXCR-2 CC and CT genotypes have significant associations with mortality risk in COVID-19 patients, while GA and GG genotypes of the IL-10 are shown to confer significant protection against mortality from COVID-19. Conclusion The findings of this study provide important insights into the COVID-19 disease and susceptibility risk. The polymorphisms in TNFα -308 G>A (rs1800629), IL-8 -251T>A (rs4073), IL-10 (-1082 G>A), rs1800896 and CXCR2 +785 C>T (rs2230054) are associated with the risk of susceptibility to COVID-19 and with mortality in COVID-19 patients. Further studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Badr A. Alsayed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rashid Mir
- Department of Medical Lab technology Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad M. Mir
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences (Biochemistry), College of Medicine, University of Bisha, Bisha, 61922, Saudi Arabia
| | - Tarig M.S. Alnour
- Department of Medical Lab technology Prince Fahad Bin Sultan Chair for Biomedical Research, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shereen Fawzy
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mesaik M. Ahmed
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, 71491, Saudi Arabia
| | - Dnyanesh Amle
- Department of Biochemistry, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Nagpur, 441108, India
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Zendejas-Hernandez U, Alcántara-Martínez N, Vivar DT, Valenzuela F, Sosa Espinoza A, Cervera Ceballos EE. Nebulized glycyrrhizin/enoxolone drug modulates IL-17A in COVID-19 patients: a randomized clinical trial. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1282280. [PMID: 38283346 PMCID: PMC10811189 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1282280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Glycyrrhizin (GA) and its derivative Enoxolone (18β), isolated from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, are two potential molecules for treating viral diseases. Both demonstrate to regulate immune system with antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities, with the latter mainly due to modulation of inflammatory cytokines. The aim of this clinical trial was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a nebulized GA/18β drug for treating COVID-19 patients. Methods An open label, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in Mexico City from January-August 2022 (Registration No. PROTAP-CLI-00). Clinical and biochemical parameters were recorded. Blood samples from patients were regularly collected to evaluate interleukins IL-4, IL-2, IL-1b, TNF-α, IL-17A, IL-6, IL-10,IFN-γ, IL-12, IL-8 and TGF-β1, as well as IgM and IgG against SARS-CoV-2. Two doses of the drug were used - 30/2 mg (dose A) and 90/4 mg (dose B). Results and discussion Both GA/18β doses modulated inflammatory response by reducing mainly IL-17A expression, which in turn kept IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α interleukins unchanged, indicating significant modulation of key interleukin levels to prevent exacerbation of the immune response in COVID-19 patients. Early on, dose A increased IgM, while dose B induced expression of the antiviral IFN-γ. No severe side effects were seen with either dose, indicating nebulized GA/18β is a safe treatment that could be used for COVID-19 and potentially other viral infections involving inflammatory response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nemi Alcántara-Martínez
- Research Department, SPV TIMSER, S.A.P.I. de C.V., Mexico City, Mexico
- Science Faculty, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Diana Tovar Vivar
- Research and Development Department, Columbia Laboratories, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Fermín Valenzuela
- Research Department, SPV TIMSER, S.A.P.I. de C.V., Mexico City, Mexico
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Wallukat G, Wernike K, Bachamanda Somesh D, Mettenleiter TC, Müller J. Animals Experimentally Infected with SARS-CoV-2 Generate Functional Autoantibodies against G-Protein-Coupled Receptors. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2668. [PMID: 37893042 PMCID: PMC10604621 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection has been linked to diverse clinical manifestations in humans, including cardiovascular complications. Functional autoantibodies targeting G-protein-coupled receptors have emerged as potential contributors to these effects. This study sought to investigate the production and activity of functional autoantibodies targeting G-protein-coupled receptors after SARS-CoV-2 infection of selected animal species. (2) Methods: The presence of functional autoantibodies such as 2-adrenoceptor, angiotensin II AT1 receptor, muscarinic M2 receptor, and angiotensin 1-7 MAS receptor was assessed in cattle and ferrets experimentally infected with SARS-CoV-2. Bioassays were conducted to evaluate the positive or negative chronotropic responses induced by these autoantibodies. Further experiments identified the extracellular domains to which the functional autoantibodies bind, and receptor antagonists were employed to block the induced responses. (3) Results: Only two out of six cattle that were inoculated with SARS-CoV-2 displayed viral replication and tested positive for functional autoantibodies against G-protein-coupled receptors. These functional autoantibodies specifically recognized β2-adrenoceptor, angiotensin II AT1 receptor, muscarinic M2 receptor, and angiotensin 1-7 MAS receptor and induced distinct positive and negative chronotropic effects in the bioassay. Infected ferrets generated functional autoantibodies against β2-adrenoceptor and muscarinic M2 receptor and presented bioactivity similar to that in cattle. (4) Conclusions: This study uncovers functional autoantibodies targeting G-protein-coupled receptors in cattle and ferrets post-SARS-CoV-2 infection, with implications for cardiovascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kerstin Wernike
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | | | | | - Johannes Müller
- Berlin Cures GmbH, 13125 Berlin, Germany;
- Berlin Heals, 10719 Berlin, Germany
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11
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Mihalov P, Hodosy J, Koščálová A, Čaprnda M, Kachlíková M, Jurenka J, Bendžala M, Sabaka P. Antimicrobial Therapy as a Risk Factor of Multidrug-Resistant Acinetobacter Infection in COVID-19 Patients Admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. THE CANADIAN JOURNAL OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES & MEDICAL MICROBIOLOGY = JOURNAL CANADIEN DES MALADIES INFECTIEUSES ET DE LA MICROBIOLOGIE MEDICALE 2023; 2023:4951273. [PMID: 37745269 PMCID: PMC10513818 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4951273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Background Multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter (MDR-Ab) is one of the most important pathogens causing superinfections in COVID-19 patients hospitalised in the intensive care unit (ICU). The occurrence of MDR-Ab superinfection significantly impairs the prognosis of patients in the ICU. Overuse of antibiotics in COVID-19 patients might contribute to the risk of developing MDR-Ab infection. Objective The objective was to assess the role of prior antibiotic exposure as an independent predictor of MDR-Ab infection in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU. Methods We conducted a retrospective cohort study in 90 patients admitted to the ICU of the Department of Infectology and Geographical Medicine, University Hospital in Bratislava, for respiratory failure due to COVID-19 between 1 September 2021 and 31 January 2022 (delta variant predominance). Patients underwent regular microbial screening. Superinfection was defined as infection occurring ≥48 h after admission. We assessed the role of prior antibiotic exposure and other factors as independent predictors of MDR-Ab isolation. Results Fifty-eight male and 32 female patients were included in the analysis. Multidrug-resistant bacteria were cultured in 43 patients (47.8%), and MDR-Ab was isolated in 37 patients. Thirty-three (36.7%) patients had superinfection caused by MDR-Ab. Fifty-four (60%) patients were exposed to antibiotics prior to MDR-Ab isolation; of those, 35 (64.8%) patients received ceftriaxone. Prior exposure to ceftriaxone (odds ratio (OR) 4.1; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4-11.9; P < 0.05), tocilizumab therapy (OR 4.7; 95% CI 1.3-15.0; P < 0.05), and ICU length of stay exceeding 11 days (OR 3.7; 95% CI 1.3-10.3; P < 0.05) were independent predictors of MDR-Ab infection. Conclusions Prior exposure to ceftriaxone increases the risk of MDR-Ab infection in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU. Our findings suggest that antibiotic use in COVID-19 patients admitted to the ICU should be restricted to patients with documented bacterial superinfection.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Mihalov
- Department of Infectology and Geographical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - J. Hodosy
- Emergency Department, University Hospital in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Institute of Molecular Biomedicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - A. Koščálová
- Department of Infectology and Geographical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - M. Čaprnda
- 1st Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - M. Kachlíková
- Department of Infectology and Geographical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - J. Jurenka
- Department of Infectology and Geographical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - M. Bendžala
- Department of Infectology and Geographical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - P. Sabaka
- Department of Infectology and Geographical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava, Bratislava, Slovakia
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Moradi Haghgoo J, Torkzaban P, Farhadian M, Moosavi Sedeh SA. Association between the severity of periodontitis, COVID-19, C-reactive protein and interleukin-6 levels in hospitalized patients: a case‒control study. BMC Oral Health 2023; 23:556. [PMID: 37568161 PMCID: PMC10422752 DOI: 10.1186/s12903-023-03270-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic is perhaps one of the most important events of the 21st century. Periodontitis is one of the most prevalent diseases of the oral cavity. Due to possible pathways of interaction between these two diseases, we investigated their association. METHODS The study population consisted of hospitalized patients with established COVID-19 diagnoses. Patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 were considered controls, while cases had severe to critical COVID-19. Periodontal examination and serum and saliva sampling were performed for each patient. Relevant medical data were extracted from patients' hospital files. RESULTS Of the enrolled patients, 122 were included in the statistical analyses. The severity of periodontitis was directly and significantly correlated with the severity of COVID-19 (P < 0.001). Patients with generalized stage III or IV periodontitis displayed an adjusted odds ratio of 4.24 for severe to critical COVID-19. Salivary and serum interleukin-6 levels were significantly associated with COVID-19 severity (P values: 0.002 and 0.004, respectively). Hospitalization length was significantly associated with the severity of periodontitis (P = 0.004). Clinical attachment level and gingival index were associated with increased odds for adverse events (P values: 0.004 and 0.035, respectively), while number of remaining teeth was associated with decreased odds for adverse events (P = 0.023). CONCLUSIONS This study showed that the severity of periodontitis is associated with the severity of COVID-19. This association might manifest as increased odds of adverse events. COVID-19 severity was associated with higher levels of salivary and serum interleukin-6 levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janet Moradi Haghgoo
- Department of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Parviz Torkzaban
- Department of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Maryam Farhadian
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health and Research Center for Health Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Sayed Ali Moosavi Sedeh
- Department of Periodontics, School of Dentistry, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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Zhu K, Ma S, Chen H, Xie J, Huang D, Ma G, Huang Y. Factors associated with COVID-19 vaccination coverage in hypertensive patients with Omicron infection in Shanghai, China. Hum Vaccin Immunother 2023; 19:2253599. [PMID: 37905728 PMCID: PMC10760500 DOI: 10.1080/21645515.2023.2253599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential future burden of COVID-19 is determined by the level of susceptibility of the population to infection. The protective effect provided by those previously infected diminishes over several months, while individuals with mixed immunity have the highest degree and persistence of protection. This study aimed to clarify the vaccination status of COVID-19 patients with hypertension and to analyze the characteristics and risk factors of non-vaccinated patients to protect this vulnerable population in the future. The study ultimately enrolled 4576 hypertensive patients with Omicron infection from April 6, 2022, to May 15, 2022. Among them, 3556 patients (77.7%) had received at least one dose of vaccine, and 2058 patients (45.0%) received a booster dose. In the multivariate logistic analysis, male (OR 1.328, 95% CI 1.138-1.550, p < .001), age (60-69 years vs.18-49 years) (OR 0.348, 95% CI 0.270-0.448, p < .001), age (≥70 years vs.18-49 years) (OR 0.130, 95% CI 0.100-0.169, p < .001), diabetes mellitus (OR 0.553, 95% CI 0.463-0.661, p < .001), chronic pulmonary diseases (OR 0.474, 95% CI 0.260-0.863, p = .015), chronic kidney disease (OR 0.177, 95% CI 0.076-0.410, p < .001), and cancer (OR 0.225, 95% CI 0.094-0.535, p = .001) were associated with vaccinated status. The vaccine coverage rate, especially the booster vaccine, was low for hypertensive patients with Omicron infection. Females, increasing age, and coexisting chronic diseases were associated with more inadequate vaccine coverage in hypertensive COVID-19 patients. Targeted interventions are required to address the under-vaccination of diverse hypertensive populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kongbo Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shaolei Ma
- Department of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hui Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Jianfeng Xie
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Dan Huang
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Genshan Ma
- Department of Cardiology, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yingzi Huang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Zhongda Hospital, School of Medicine, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
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Yazdanparast S, Bakhtiyaridovvombaygi M, Mikanik F, Ahmadi R, Ghorbani M, Mansoorian MR, Mansoorian M, Chegni H, Moshari J, Gharehbaghian A. Spotlight on contributory role of host immunogenetic profiling in SARS-CoV-2 infection: Susceptibility, severity, mortality, and vaccine effectiveness. Life Sci 2023:121907. [PMID: 37394094 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The SARS-CoV-2 virus has spread continuously worldwide, characterized by various clinical symptoms. The immune system responds to SARS-CoV-2 infection by producing Abs and secreting cytokines. Recently, numerous studies have highlighted that immunogenetic factors perform a putative role in COVID-19 pathogenesis and implicate vaccination effectiveness. AIM This review summarizes the relevant articles and evaluates the significance of mutation and polymorphism in immune-related genes regarding susceptibility, severity, mortality, and vaccination effectiveness of COVID-19. Furthermore, the correlation between host immunogenetic and SARS-CoV-2 reinfection is discussed. METHOD A comprehensive search was conducted to identify relevant articles using five databases until January 2023, which resulted in 105 total articles. KEY FINDINGS Taken to gather this review summarized that: (a) there is a plausible correlation between immune-related genes and COVID-19 outcomes, (b) the HLAs, cytokines, chemokines, and other immune-related genes expression profiles can be a prognostic factor in COVID-19-infected patients, and (c) polymorphisms in immune-related genes have been associated with the effectiveness of vaccination. SIGNIFICANCE Regarding the importance of mutation and polymorphisms in immune-related genes in COVID-19 outcomes, modulating candidate genes is expected to help clinical decisions, patient outcomes management, and innovative therapeutic approach development. In addition, the manipulation of host immunogenetics is hypothesized to induce more robust cellular and humoral immune responses, effectively increase the efficacy of vaccines, and subsequently reduce the incidence rates of reinfection-associated COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Somayeh Yazdanparast
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehdi Bakhtiyaridovvombaygi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mikanik
- Student Research Committee, Department of Hematology and Blood Banking, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Reza Ahmadi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ghorbani
- Laboratory Hematology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, Faculty Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran.
| | | | - Mozhgan Mansoorian
- Nursing Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Hamid Chegni
- Department of Immunology, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jalil Moshari
- School of Medicine, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Ahmad Gharehbaghian
- Department of Hematology and Blood Bank, School of Allied Medical Science, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran; Pediatric Congenital Hematologic Disorders Research Center, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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15
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Baghban R, Ghasemian A, Mahmoodi S. Nucleic acid-based vaccine platforms against the coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19). Arch Microbiol 2023; 205:150. [PMID: 36995507 PMCID: PMC10062302 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-023-03480-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has infected 673,010,496 patients and caused the death of 6,854,959 cases globally until today. Enormous efforts have been made to develop fundamentally different COVID-19 vaccine platforms. Nucleic acid-based vaccines consisting of mRNA and DNA vaccines (third-generation vaccines) have been promising in terms of rapid and convenient production and efficient provocation of immune responses against the COVID-19. Several DNA-based (ZyCoV-D, INO-4800, AG0302-COVID19, and GX-19N) and mRNA-based (BNT162b2, mRNA-1273, and ARCoV) approved vaccine platforms have been utilized for the COVID-19 prevention. mRNA vaccines are at the forefront of all platforms for COVID-19 prevention. However, these vaccines have lower stability, while DNA vaccines are needed with higher doses to stimulate the immune responses. Intracellular delivery of nucleic acid-based vaccines and their adverse events needs further research. Considering re-emergence of the COVID-19 variants of concern, vaccine reassessment and the development of polyvalent vaccines, or pan-coronavirus strategies, is essential for effective infection prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roghayyeh Baghban
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Abdolmajid Ghasemian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Shirin Mahmoodi
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran.
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Agrawal R, Kumar A, Mohammed MKA, Singh S. Biomaterial types, properties, medical applications, and other factors: a recent review. JOURNAL OF ZHEJIANG UNIVERSITY. SCIENCE. A 2023. [PMCID: PMC9986044 DOI: 10.1631/jzus.a2200403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Biomaterial research has been going on for several years, and many companies are heavily investing in new product development. However, it is a contentious field of science. Biomaterial science is a field that combines materials science and medicine. The replacement or restoration of damaged tissues or organs enhances the patient’s quality of life. The deciding aspect is whether or not the body will accept a biomaterial. A biomaterial used for an implant must possess certain qualities to survive a long time. When a biomaterial is used for an implant, it must have specific properties to be long-lasting. A variety of materials are used in biomedical applications. They are widely used today and can be used individually or in combination. This review will aid researchers in the selection and assessment of biomaterials. Before using a biomaterial, its mechanical and physical properties should be considered. Recent biomaterials have a structure that closely resembles that of tissue. Anti-infective biomaterials and surfaces are being developed using advanced antifouling, bactericidal, and antibiofilm technologies. This review tries to cover critical features of biomaterials needed for tissue engineering, such as bioactivity, self-assembly, structural hierarchy, applications, heart valves, skin repair, bio-design, essential ideas in biomaterials, bioactive biomaterials, bioresorbable biomaterials, biomaterials in medical practice, biomedical function for design, biomaterial properties such as biocompatibility, heat response, non-toxicity, mechanical properties, physical properties, wear, and corrosion, as well as biomaterial properties such surfaces that are antibacterial, nanostructured materials, and biofilm disrupting compounds, are all being investigated. It is technically possible to stop the spread of implant infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reeya Agrawal
- VLSI Research Centre, GLA University, 281406 Mathura, India
- Microelectronics & VLSI Lab, National Institute of Technology, Patna, 800005 India
| | - Anjan Kumar
- VLSI Research Centre, GLA University, 281406 Mathura, India
| | - Mustafa K. A. Mohammed
- Radiological Techniques Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, 51001 Hillah Babylon, Iraq
| | - Sangeeta Singh
- Microelectronics & VLSI Lab, National Institute of Technology, Patna, 800005 India
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Diagnosis and Stratification of COVID-19 Infections Using Differential Plasma Levels of D-Dimer: A Two-Center Study from Saudi Arabia. MICROBIOLOGY RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/microbiolres14010006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: D-dimer, generated upon the degradation of fibrin, is extensively used to detect thrombosis in various diseases. It is also explored as a marker for thrombosis in cases with COVID-19 disease. Few studies have confirmed its utility as a marker for assessing disease severity. Objectives: The current research was undertaken to determine the role of D-dimer in patients with COVID-19 and to investigate any association with the progression and severity of the disease in the Saudi population. Methods: Clinical indices in confirmed COVID-19 patients were collected from tertiary care hospitals in Aljouf and Qassim regions. The plasma D-dimer levels were quantified directly in the samples collected from COVID-19 patients (n = 148) using an immunofluorescence assay, and the data were presented in Fibrinogen Equivalent Units (mg/L). The collected data of D-dimer were analyzed based on COVID-19 severity, age, and the gender of patients. Results: The findings show that the plasma D-dimer concentrations were significantly (p = 0.0027) elevated in COVID-19 cases (n = 148), compared to in the normal healthy uninfected controls (n = 309). Moreover, the D-dimer levels were analyzed according to the severity of the disease in the patients. The data revealed that D-dimer concentrations were significantly increased in patients with mild infection to moderate disease, and the levels were the highest in patients with severe COVID-19 disease (p < 0.05). Our analysis demonstrates that the D-dimer levels have no association with the age or gender of COVID-19 patients (p > 0.05) in the study population. Conclusions: D-dimer can serve as a biomarker not only for the detection of COVID-19 infection, but also for determining the severity of infection of COVID-19 disease.
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Khalaf QA, Rasool KH, Naji EN. Evaluation of IL-6 and IL-17A gene polymorphisms in Iraqi patients infected with COVID-19 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Hum Antibodies 2023; 31:35-44. [PMID: 37458031 DOI: 10.3233/hab-230007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In patients with COVID-19, diabetes mellitus type 2 (T2DM) increases the risk of hospitalization and death. Patients who have IL-6 and IL-17A single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are more likely to have severe COVID-19. This study aims to determine whether SNPs of the IL-6 gene at rs1800795 (G > C) and the IL-17A gene at rs2275913 (G > A) are associated with COVID-19 and T2DM in the Iraqi population. PATIENTS AND METHODS Twenty-four people were divided into 4 groups as follows: six patients with severe COVID-19 and T2DM were placed in Group 1 as "G1", six patients with COVID-19 but no T2DM were placed in Group 2 as "G2", and six patients with T2DM were placed in Group 3 as "G3". There were also six healthy controls included in each group. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify the target genes after genomic DNA from the blood samples was extracted. Sanger sequencing was used to find the SNPs in both the forward and reverse directions for each sample. RESULTS In the case of IL-6 SNP at rs1800795, the GG genotype was more common in "G3", the CC genotype was less common in all patient groups than in controls, and the GC allele was more common in "G2" than in the control group. In comparison to the controls, the three patient groups showed lower frequencies of the C allele and higher frequencies of the G allele. Regarding IL-17A gene polymorphism, the AA and GA genotypes were more prevalent in "G2" and "G3", respectively. The GG genotype and G allele frequency dropped in all patient groups compared to the control group, whereas the A allele frequency increased in all patient groups. CONCLUSIONS The IL-6 gene at rs1800795 (G/C) and the IL-17A gene at rs2275913 (G/A) loci were associated with COVID-19 and T2DM in Iraqi population.
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Nainu F, Ophinni Y, Shiratsuchi A, Nakanishi Y. Apoptosis and Phagocytosis as Antiviral Mechanisms. Subcell Biochem 2023; 106:77-112. [PMID: 38159224 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-40086-5_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Viruses are infectious entities that make use of the replication machinery of their hosts to produce more progenies, causing disease and sometimes death. To counter viral infection, metazoan hosts are equipped with various defense mechanisms, from the rapid-evoking innate immune responses to the most advanced adaptive immune responses. Previous research demonstrated that cells in fruit flies and mice infected with Drosophila C virus and influenza, respectively, undergo apoptosis, which triggers the engulfment of apoptotic virus-infected cells by phagocytes. This process involves the recognition of eat-me signals on the surface of virus-infected cells by receptors of specialized phagocytes, such as macrophages and neutrophils in mice and hemocytes in fruit flies, to facilitate the phagocytic elimination of virus-infected cells. Inhibition of phagocytosis led to severe pathologies and death in both species, indicating that apoptosis-dependent phagocytosis of virus-infected cells is a conserved antiviral mechanism in multicellular organisms. Indeed, our understanding of the mechanisms underlying apoptosis-dependent phagocytosis of virus-infected cells has shed a new perspective on how hosts defend themselves against viral infection. This chapter explores the mechanisms of this process and its potential for developing new treatments for viral diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firzan Nainu
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia.
| | - Youdiil Ophinni
- Division of Clinical Virology, Center for Infectious Diseases, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan
- Laboratory of Host Defense, Immunology Frontier Research Center, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Akiko Shiratsuchi
- Center for Medical Education, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
- Division of Biological Function and Regulation, Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan
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Palomino-Kobayashi LA, Ymaña B, Ruiz J, Mayanga-Herrera A, Ugarte-Gil MF, Pons MJ. Zonulin, a marker of gut permeability, is associated with mortality in a cohort of hospitalised peruvian COVID-19 patients. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:1000291. [PMID: 36147602 PMCID: PMC9485714 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.1000291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Zonulin has previously been related to intestinal permeability in various inflammatory diseases, and more recently to the physiopathology of severe COVID-19 infections. We analysed serum samples from a previous study of a Peruvian cohort of hospitalised COVID-19 patients, for the quantification of zonulin by sandwich ELISA. Comparisons with clinical data, haematological and biochemical parameters and cytokine/chemokine levels were made. We found higher baseline zonulin levels in deceased patients, and zonulin was associated with fatal outcome in multivariable analyses, even after adjustment for age, gender, and obesity. There were also positive correlations between zonulin, creatinine, D-dimer values and prothrombin time, while inverse correlations were found for Sa/FiO2 ratio and CCL5 (RANTES). Further longitudinal studies are recommended to analyse the variation of zonulin levels over time as well as their relationship with long-COVID.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Barbara Ymaña
- Grupo Enfermedades Infecciosas Emergentes. Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Joaquim Ruiz
- Grupo Enfermedades Infecciosas Emergentes. Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Ana Mayanga-Herrera
- Laboratorio de Cultivo Celular e Inmunología, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Manuel F. Ugarte-Gil
- Grupo Peruano de Estudio de Enfermedades Autoinmunes Sistémicas, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru,Hospital Nacional Guillermo Almenara Irigoyen, EsSalud, Lima, Peru
| | - Maria J. Pons
- Grupo Enfermedades Infecciosas Emergentes. Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru,*Correspondence: Maria J. Pons,
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