Polymorphisms of complement receptor 1 and interleukin-10 genes and systemic lupus erythematosus: a meta-analysis

The Impact of the IL-10 Gene Polymorphism on mRNA Expression and IL-10 Serum Concentration in Polish Lupus Patients

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies against a lot of nuclear components. Despite many studies on the genetic background of this disease, the pathogenesis remains unclear. The aim of the study is to comprehensively evaluate the polymorphism of the IL-10 promoter gene, its mRNA expression, and the serum IL-10 concentration of SLE female patients and females age-matched controls. Analyzing the association between the level of the tested cytokine and the polymorphism genotype-1082; -819; -592, we found statistically higher serum IL-10 levels in SLE patients compared to in healthy controls (11.9 ± 2.2 pg/mL vs. 9.4 ± 1.7 pg/mL, accordingly; p < 0.0001). We did not find statistically significant differences in the gene polymorphism of IL-10 among SLE patients and controls. The most significant observation derived from our study is that IL-10 mRNA transcripts are upregulated in SLE patients compared to in healthy controls (p < 0.0001). According to our results, the presence of the IL-10 genetic polymorphism has no clinical significance for the development of SLE, and subsequent differences in mRNA and IL-10 concentration results from the influence of other factors which should be the subject of further research.

Study on Potential Differentially Expressed Genes in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis by Bioinformatics and Next-Generation Sequencing Data Analysis

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive lung disease with reduced quality of life and earlier mortality, but its pathogenesis and key genes are still unclear. In this investigation, bioinformatics was used to deeply analyze the pathogenesis of IPF and related key genes, so as to investigate the potential molecular pathogenesis of IPF and provide guidance for clinical treatment. Next-generation sequencing dataset GSE213001 was obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between IPF and normal control group. The DEGs between IPF and normal control group were screened with the DESeq2 package of R language. The Gene Ontology (GO) and REACTOME pathway enrichment analyses of the DEGs were performed. Using the g:Profiler, the function and pathway enrichment analyses of DEGs were performed. Then, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed via the Integrated Interactions Database (IID) database. Cytoscape with Network Analyzer was used to identify the hub genes. miRNet and NetworkAnalyst databaseswereused to construct the targeted microRNAs (miRNAs), transcription factors (TFs), and small drug molecules. Finally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to validate the hub genes. A total of 958 DEGs were screened out in this study, including 479 up regulated genes and 479 down regulated genes. Most of the DEGs were significantly enriched in response to stimulus, GPCR ligand binding, microtubule-based process, and defective GALNT3 causes HFTC. In combination with the results of the PPI network, miRNA-hub gene regulatory network and TF-hub gene regulatory network, hub genes including LRRK2, BMI1, EBP, MNDA, KBTBD7, KRT15, OTX1, TEKT4, SPAG8, and EFHC2 were selected. Cyclothiazide and rotigotinethe are predicted small drug molecules for IPF treatment. Our findings will contribute to identification of potential biomarkers and novel strategies for the treatment of IPF, and provide a novel strategy for clinical therapy.

Regulatory Architecture of the RCA Gene Cluster Captures an Intragenic TAD Boundary, CTCF-Mediated Chromatin Looping and a Long-Range Intergenic Enhancer

The Regulators of Complement Activation (RCA) gene cluster comprises several tandemly arranged genes with shared functions within the immune system. RCA members, such as complement receptor 2 (CR2), are well-established susceptibility genes in complex autoimmune diseases. Altered expression of RCA genes has been demonstrated at both the functional and genetic level, but the mechanisms underlying their regulation are not fully characterised. We aimed to investigate the structural organisation of the RCA gene cluster to identify key regulatory elements that influence the expression of CR2 and other genes in this immunomodulatory region. Using 4C, we captured extensive CTCF-mediated chromatin looping across the RCA gene cluster in B cells and showed these were organised into two topologically associated domains (TADs). Interestingly, an inter-TAD boundary was located within the CR1 gene at a well-characterised segmental duplication. Additionally, we mapped numerous gene-gene and gene-enhancer interactions across the region, revealing extensive co-regulation. Importantly, we identified an intergenic enhancer and functionally demonstrated this element upregulates two RCA members (CR2 and CD55) in B cells. We have uncovered novel, long-range mechanisms whereby autoimmune disease susceptibility may be influenced by genetic variants, thus highlighting the important contribution of chromatin topology to gene regulation and complex genetic disease.

Complement Receptor 1 availability on red blood cell surface modulates Plasmodium vivax invasion of human reticulocytes

Plasmodium vivax parasites preferentially invade reticulocyte cells in a multistep process that is still poorly understood. In this study, we used ex vivo invasion assays and population genetic analyses to investigate the involvement of complement receptor 1 (CR1) in P. vivax invasion. First, we observed that P. vivax invasion of reticulocytes was consistently reduced when CR1 surface expression was reduced through enzymatic cleavage, in the presence of naturally low-CR1-expressing cells compared with high-CR1-expressing cells, and with the addition of soluble CR1, a known inhibitor of P. falciparum invasion. Immuno-precipitation experiments with P. vivax Reticulocyte Binding Proteins showed no evidence of complex formation. In addition, analysis of CR1 genetic data for worldwide human populations with different exposure to malaria parasites show significantly higher frequency of CR1 alleles associated with low receptor expression on the surface of RBCs and higher linkage disequilibrium in human populations exposed to P. vivax malaria compared with unexposed populations. These results are consistent with a positive selection of low-CR1-expressing alleles in vivax-endemic areas. Collectively, our findings demonstrate that CR1 availability on the surface of RBCs modulates P. vivax invasion. The identification of new molecular interactions is crucial to guiding the rational development of new therapeutic interventions against vivax malaria.

Meta-Analysis of Case-Control and Family-Based Associations Between the 5-HTTLPR L/S Polymorphism and Susceptibility to ADHD

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether the serotonin transporter-linked polymorphic region (5-HTTLPR) L (long)/S (short) polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to ADHD.

METHOD

We conducted a meta-analysis of case-control associations and the transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) between the 5-HTTLPR L/S polymorphism and ADHD.

RESULTS

A total of 19 comparison studies were included in this meta-analysis. Our meta-analysis of the case-control studies showed no association between ADHD and the 5-HTTLPR S allele, for all study participants (odds ratio [OR] = 1.075, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [0.990, 1.167], p = .085), or for the European or Asian population. The TDT indicated no association between ADHD and the 5-HTTLPR S allele, for all study participants (OR = 1.078, 95% CI = [0.962, 1.207], p = .196).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis of case-control studies and TDT showed a lack of association between the 5-HTTLPR L/S polymorphism and ADHD.

Lymphocyte integration of complement cues

We address current data, views and puzzles on the emerging topic of regulation of lymphocytes by complement proteins or fragments. Such regulation is believed to take place through complement receptors (CR) and membrane complement regulators (CReg) involved in cell function or protection, respectively, including intracellular signalling. Original observations in B cells clearly support that complement cues through CR improve their performance. Other lymphocytes likely integrate complement-derived signals, as most lymphoid cells constitutively express or regulate CR and CReg upon activation. CR-induced signals, particularly by anaphylatoxins, clearly regulate lymphoid cell function. In contrast, data obtained by CReg crosslinking using antibodies are not always confirmed in human congenital deficiencies or knock-out mice, casting doubts on their physiological relevance. Unsurprisingly, human and mouse complement systems are not completely homologous, adding further complexity to our still fragmentary understanding of complement-lymphocyte interactions.

The Synergistic Effect of TNFA and IL10 Promoter Polymorphisms on Genetic Predisposition to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

AIMS

We investigated the individual and combined effect of functional TNFA -308G/A and IL10 -1082G/A single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their genotypes on the susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in a Bulgarian population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Genotyping for -1082A/G IL10 (rs1800896) and -308G/A TNFA (rs1800629) polymorphisms was performed for 154 SLE patients and 224 healthy controls.

RESULTS

An association between SLE and the rs1800629 polymorphism was established under the allelic model (allele A vs. allele G; odds ratios [OR] = 2.317), the dominant model (GA+AA vs. GG; OR = 3.214), and the overdominant model (GA vs. AA+GG; OR = 3.494). There was no association between rs1800896 and SLE, although a tendency for genetic predisposition to SLE was observed for the IL10 -1082 GG genotype under the recessive genetic model (OR = 1.454). When analyzing the influence of the combined TNFA/IL10 genotypes on SLE occurrence, we found that the carriage of both high cytokine-producing genotypes of two SNPs (TNFA -308AA/GA and IL10 -1082GG) significantly increased the risk of developing SLE with OR of 9.026 (p = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the combinatorial complexity of TNFA and IL10 promoter polymorphisms impacts SLE susceptibility. Notably, we found that a TNFA promoter polymorphism is a leading risk factor for SLE susceptibility in a Bulgarian population, while the IL10 -1082 locus appears to act as a significant modifier.

Analysis of interleukin-10 gene polymorphisms in patients with chronic periodontitis and healthy controls

BACKGROUND

Interleukin-10 (IL-10) is an anti-inflammatory cytokine that has important roles in the periodontal diseases. The IL10-1082, -819, and -592 polymorphisms in the promoter region of IL-10 gene have been associated with various IL-10 expressions. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between these gene polymorphisms with chronic periodontitis in a sample of Iranian populations from Southeast of Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

IL-10 single nucleotide polymorphisms were analyzed in 210 patients with chronic periodontitis (CP) and 100 individuals without CP by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Statistical analysis of data was performed using the Chi-square test. The risk associated with single alleles, genotypes, and haplotypes were calculated by performing a multiple logistic regression analysis to estimate the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). P < 0.05 for statistical significance.

RESULTS

The prevalences of AG and GG genotypes of IL10-1082 were significantly different between CP and control groups in comparison to AA genotype (OR = 2.671; CI = 1.482-4.815; P = 0.001 for AG vs. AA, OR = 4.151; CI = 2.128-8.097; P < 0.001 for GG vs. AA). In addition, subjects with at least one IL10-1082-G allele were significantly had an increased risk for CP (OR = 2.157; CI = 1.531-3.038; P < 0.001). The distribution of the IL10-819 and IL10-592 genotypes was not different between CP and control subjects (P = 0.109 and P = 0.139, respectively). The combination of different genotypes showed that GCC haplotype was significantly different between groups (OR = 4.379; CI = 1.077-17.807; P = 0.039).

CONCLUSION

The results demonstrated that IL10-1082 polymorphism was a putative risk factor for chronic periodontitis and associated with increased susceptibility to CP.

Association between low bone mineral density and fibromyalgia: a meta-analysis

We aimed to evaluate the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD) and fibromyalgia (FM). Meta-analyses were performed comparing BMD in FM patients and healthy controls, and in FM patients in subgroups based on ethnicity, BMD site, age, sex, and measurement method. Twelve studies including 695 FM patients and 784 controls were selected. Meta-analysis by ethnicity revealed a significantly lower BMD in the FM group in Caucasian populations [standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.144, 95% CI = -0.271-(-0.017), p = 0.026], but not in Turkish populations. Subgroup analysis by BMD site showed that BMD was significantly lower in the FM group than in the control group in the lumbar spine [SMD = -0.588 (medium), 95% CI = -1.142-(-0.033), p = 0.038], but not in the femur neck and hip. Stratification by measurement method revealed a significantly lower BMD in the FM group by dual X-ray absorptiometry and dual-photon absorptiometry [SMD = -0.531 (medium), 95% CI = -1.040-(-0.023), p = 0.041; SMD = -0.315 (small), 95% CI = -0.544-(-0.085), p = 0.007, respectively], but not by quantitative ultrasound, but not by quantitative ultrasound. Subgroup analysis by sex, menopause status, and age revealed a significantly lower BMD in the female FM group [SMD = -0.588 (medium), 95% CI = -1.142-(-0.033), p = 0.038], but not in the pre-menopausal group and the group greater than mean age 50 years old. Our meta-analysis demonstrated that BMD was significantly lower in FM patients in Caucasian and female populations.

Diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG PET or PET/CT for large vessel vasculitis : A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron-emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) or positron-emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for patients with large vessel vasculitis.

METHODS

Based on a search in the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases, a meta-analysis was performed on the diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FDG PET or PET/CT in patients with large vessel vasculitis.

RESULTS

A total of eight studies involving 400 subjects (170 vasculitis patients and 230 controls) were selected for meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of 18F-FDG PET or PET/CT were 75.9 % (95 % confidence interval, CI 68.7-82.1) and 93.0 % (95 % CI 88.9-96.0), respectively. The positive likelihood ratio (PLR), negative likelihood ratio (NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were 7.267 (95 % CI 3.707-14.24), 0.303 (95 % CI 0.229-0.400), and 32.04 (95 % CI 13.08-78.45), respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.863 and the Q^* index 0.794, indicating good diagnostic accuracy. There was no evidence of a threshold effect (Spearman's correlation coefficient = 0.120, p = 0.776). When the data were limited to giant cell arteritis (GCA), the pooled sensitivity and specificity of 18F-FDG PET or PET/CT were 83.3 % (95 % CI 72.1-91.4) and 89.6 % (95 % CI 79.7-95.7), respectively; AUC was 0.884, and the Q^* index 0.815, indicating modest accuracy with a small increase in diagnostic accuracy.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis of published studies demonstrates that 18F-FDG PET or PET/CT has good diagnostic accuracy for large vessel vasculitis and plays an important role in the diagnosis of this condition.

Vitamin D receptor FokI, BsmI, and TaqI polymorphisms and susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis : A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to explore whether vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

Meta-analyses were conducted on the associations between the VDR FokI, BsmI, and TaqI polymorphisms and RA.

RESULTS

A total of seven studies were considered in the meta-analysis, involving a total of 923 patients and 912 controls. Meta-analysis of the VDR FokI polymorphism showed no association between RA and the F allele in the entire studied cohort (odds ratio, OR = 1.1740, 95 % confidence interval, CI = 0.994-1.387, p = 0.059). However, stratification by ethnicity revealed a significant association between the F allele and RA in Europeans (OR = 1.402, 95 % CI = 1.126-1.746, p = 0.003). Furthermore, an association was found between RA and the VDR FokI polymorphism using both the dominant model and homozygote contrast. Meta-analysis revealed no association between RA and the VDR BsmI B and TaqI T polymorphisms in Europeans (OR for the B allele = 1.065, 95 % CI = 0.911-1.245, p = 0.427; OR for the T allele = 1.065, 95 % CI = 0.834-1.361, p = 0.613).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis suggests that the VDR FokI polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to RA in European populations.

CR1 exon variants are associated with lowered CR1 expression and increased susceptibility to SLE in a Plasmodium falciparum endemic population

BACKGROUND

Complement receptor 1 (CR1) plays an important role in immune complex clearance by opsonisation and possibly protects subjects from development of autoantibodies. Lower CR1 expression has been associated with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In contrast, subjects displaying lower CR1 expression are protected against severe manifestations of falciparum malaria. This study is the first of its kind to investigate the association of CR1 variants with development of SLE in a P. falciparum endemic population from Odisha, India.

METHODS

CR1 polymorphisms (intron 27 (A>T), exon 22 (A>G) and exon 33 (G>C)) were typed by PCR and restriction length polymorphism in 297 cases of female patients with SLE and 300 age-matched and sex-matched healthy controls from malaria endemic areas in Odisha, India. CR1 expression on monocytes was quantified by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

The homozygous mutants of CR1 exon 22 (GG) and exon 33 (GG) and their minor alleles were associated with susceptibility to SLE. Furthermore, patients with SLE who harboured the GG genotype of the exon 33 polymorphism had a 3.12-fold higher chance of developing lupus nephritis. CR1 exon (22 and 33) variants were associated with lowered CR1 expression on monocytes in patients with SLE and in healthy controls. Patients with lupus nephritis showed significantly diminished CR1 expression than those without renal involvement (p=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study demonstrate that common CR1 exon variants are associated with diminished CR1 expression on monocytes and increased susceptibility to development of SLE and lupus nephritis in a malaria endemic area.

Association between Functional CYP2D6 Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Autoimmune Diseases: A Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore whether functional CYP2D6 polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to autoimmune diseases.

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted on associations between autoimmune diseases and functional CYP2D6*4 1934 A/G and *3 polymorphisms and CYP2D6 phenotypes.

RESULTS

Twelve studies with 1,472 patients and 3,328 controls were included. Autoimmune disease and the CYP2D6 1934 A allele were significantly associated in the overall group, consistent with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (OR = 1.227, 95% CI = 1.071-1.406, p = 0.003); stratification by ethnicity indicated that the CYP2D6 1934 A allele and autoimmune diseases were associated in Caucasians (OR = 1.225, 95% CI = 1.010-1.485, p = 0.039). The CYP2D6*3 allele was also associated with autoimmune diseases in Caucasians (OR = 1.977, 95% CI = 1.125-3.472, p = 0.018). Stratified by autoimmune disease type revealed that the CYP2D6 1934 AA genotype was associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE; OR = 2.007, 95% CI = 1.170-3.442, p = 0.011) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS; OR = 2.317, 95% CI = 1.422-3.774, p = 0.001). The CYP2D6 PM+IM phenotype was significantly associated with autoimmune diseases in Caucasians (OR = 1.526, 95% CI = 1.038-2.246, p = 0.032) and with SLE (OR = 1.778, 95% CI = 1.249-2.532, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis indicates that CYP2D6*4 and *3 polymorphisms and the CYP2D6 phenotype are associated with susceptibility to autoimmune diseases in Caucasians; particularly, the CYP2D6*4 polymorphism and CYP2D6 PM+IM phenotype are risk factors for SLE development.

Association between shortened telomere length and systemic lupus erythematosus: a meta-analysis

Objective We aimed to evaluate the relationship between telomere length and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Methods PUBMED and EMBASE databases were searched; meta-analyses were performed comparing telomere length in SLE patients and healthy controls, and on SLE patients in subgroups based on ethnicity, sample type, assay method and data type. Results Eight studies including 472 SLE patients and 365 controls were ultimately selected which showed that telomere length was significantly shorter in the SLE group than in the control group (standardized mean difference (SMD) = -0.835, 95% confidence interval (CI) = -1.291 to -0.380, p = 3.3 × 10^-4). Stratification by ethnicity showed significantly shortened telomere length in the SLE group in Caucasian, Asian and mixed populations (SMD = -0.455, 95% CI = -0.763 to -0.147, p = 0.004; SMD = -0.887, 95% CI = -1.261 to -0.513, p = 3.4 × 10^-4; SMD = -0.535, 95% CI = -0.923 to -0.147, p = 0.007; respectively). Furthermore, telomere length was significantly shorter in the SLE group than in the control group in whole blood and peripheral blood mononuclear cell groups (SMD = -0.361, 95% CI = -0.553 to -0.169, p = 2.3 × 10^-4; SMD = -1.546, 95% CI = -2.583 to -0.510, p = 0.003; respectively); a similar trend was observed in leukocyte groups (SMD = -0.699, 95% CI = -1.511 to -0.114, p = 0.092). Meta-analyses based on assay method or data type revealed similar associations. Conclusions Our meta-analysis demonstrated that telomere length was significantly shorter in patients with SLE, regardless of ethnicity, sample type or assay method evaluated.

Relation of interleukin-10 Promoter Polymorphisms to Adult Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura in a Cohort of Egyptian Population

BACKGROUND

Adult chronic immune thrombocytopenic purpura (chronic ITP) is an autoimmune multifactorial bleeding disorder that occurs because of enhanced peripheral platelet destruction. Treatment decisions can be challenging because the goal of treatment is to prevent severe bleeding, but the risk of bleeding can be difficult to estimate for any individual patient.

OBJECTIVE

This case-control study was planned to investigate the relationship of interleukin (IL)-10 promoter (IL-10-1082, -819 and -592) polymorphisms with the susceptibility, severity and outcome of adult chronic ITP in a cohort of Egyptian population.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Typing of IL-10 promoter polymorphisms was done using restriction fragment length polymorphism for 62 adult patients with chronic ITP and 73 age- and sex-matched healthy controls.

RESULTS

No significant differences were found between ITP patients and controls regarding the frequency of IL-10 promoter genotypes, alleles or haplotypes. IL-10-592 AA genotype and ATA (IL-10-1082, -819 and -592) haplotype were associated with severe ITP (p = 0.003, 0.043, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the IL-10 promoter polymorphisms are unlikely to affect the development or treatment outcome of chronic adult ITP in Egyptian population, but IL-10-592 AA genotype and IL-10 (-1082, -819 and -592) ATA haplotype may be associated with disease severity. Because ITP is a complex disease, it is recommended that a multicenter study should be done with large sample size and unified typing technique.

Meta-analysis of genetic polymorphisms in programmed cell death 1. Associations with rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and type 1 diabetes susceptibility

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether genetic polymorphisms in programmed cell death 1 (PDCD1 or PD1) are associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA), ankylosing spondylitis (AS), and type 1 diabetes (T1D).

METHODS

We conducted a meta-analysis to investigate the association between PDCD1 polymorphisms and RA, AS, and T1D in the overall population and in specific ethnic populations.

RESULTS

Sixteen studies, comprising 13,210 patients and 17,073 controls, were conducted for the meta-analysis including 4 studies on RA, 4 on AS, and 8 on T1D. The meta-analysis showed an association between RA and the 2 alleles of the PD1.3 polymorphism in the overall population [odds ratio (OR) 1.183, 95 % confidence interval (95 % CI) 1.005-1.392, p = 0.043]. However, meta-analysis showed no association between RA and the 2 alleles of the PD1.1 and PD1.5 polymorphisms in the overall population. Meta-analysis identified an association between AS and the 2 alleles of the PD1.5 and PD1.9 polymorphisms in the Asian population (OR 1.251, 95 % CI 1.019-1.535, p = 0.033; OR 1.975, 95 % CI 1.286-3.034, p = 0.002, respectively). The meta-analysis revealed a significant association between T1D and the 2 alleles of the PD1.3 polymorphism in the European population (OR 1.098, 95 % CI 1.029-1.171, p = 0.005). The meta-analysis showed an association between the PD1.5 polymorphism and T1D in Asians (OR 1.332, 95 % CI 1.067-1.663, p = 0.011) and between the PD1.9 polymorphism and T1D in the Asian population (OR 1.363, 95 % CI 1.107-1.679, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

The meta-analysis suggests an association between the PD1.3 polymorphism and RA in the overall population and an association between the PD1.5 and PD1.9 polymorphisms, and AS in the Asian population. Furthermore, the PD1.3 , 5, and 9 polymorphisms were associated with T1D susceptibility in Europeans, or Asians.

Meta-analysis reveals PTPN22 1858C/T polymorphism confers susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis in Caucasian but not in Asian population

The PTPN22 1858C/T polymorphism is associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, reports from the Asian populations are conflicting in nature and lacks consensus. The aim of our study was to evaluate the association between the PTPN22 1858C/T polymorphism and RA in Asian and Caucasian subjects by carrying out a meta-analysis of Asian and Caucasian data. A total of 27 205 RA cases and 27 677 controls were considered in the present meta-analysis involving eight Asian and 35 Caucasian studies. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) were performed for the allele, dominant, and recessive genetic model. No statistically significant association was found between the PTPN22 1858C/T polymorphism and risk of RA in Asian population (allele genetic model: OR = 1.217, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.99-1.496, p value 0.061; dominant genetic model: OR = 1.238, 95% CI = 0.982-1.562, p value 0.071; recessive genetic model: OR = 1.964, 95% CI = 0.678-5.693, p value 0.213). A significant association with risk of RA in Caucasian population suggesting that T-- allele does confer susceptibility to RA in this subgroup was observed (allele genetic model: OR = 1.638, 95% CI = 1.574-1.705, p value < 0.0001; dominant genetic model: OR = 1.67, 95% CI = 1.598-1.745, p value < 0.0001; recessive genetic model: OR = 2.65, 95% CI = 2.273-3.089, p value < 0.0001). The PTPN22 1858C/T polymorphism is not associated with RA risk in Asian populations. However, our meta-analysis confirms that the PTPN22 1858C/T polymorphism is associated with RA susceptibility in Caucasians.

Meta-analysis of the association between functional MICA-TM polymorphisms and systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether the major histocompatibility complex class I chain-related gene A transmembrane (MICA-TM) polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematous (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS).

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted to establish the association between MICA-TM polymorphisms and SLE, RA and AS in the overall study population, as well as in each ethnic group.

RESULTS

A total of 13 comparison studies, including five SLE (1601 patients; 1846 controls), four RA (701 patients; 887 controls) and four AS (346 patients; 356 controls) studies were considered in the meta-analysis. An association between the MICA-TM A5.1 allele and SLE was demonstrated in Europeans but not in Asians: odds ratio (OR) = 1.699, 95 % confidence interval (CI) = 1.123-2.569, p = 0.012 and OR = 0.949, 95 % CI = 0.502-1.793, p = 0.871, respectively. However, no association was found in Europeans after Bonferroni correction (pcorrected = 0.060). An association was found between the MICA-TM A9 allele and RA in Asians (OR = 0.527, 95 % CI = 0.408-0.681, p = 8.9 × 10(-7)) but not in Europeans; the association in Asians remained significant after Bonferroni correction (pcorrected = 4.5 × 10(-6)). An association between the MICA-TM A4 phenotype and AS was observed in European and Asian populations (OR = 12.87, 95 % CI = 6.747-24.58, p < 1.0 × 10(-9) and OR = 9.461, 95 % CI = 5.754-15.55, p < 1.0 × 10(-9), respectively). Meta-analysis stratified by human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 status revealed an association between the MICA-TM A4 phenotype and HLA-B27 positivity AS in Asians, but not in Europeans (OR = 0.318, 95 % CI = 0.102-0.995, p = 0.049 and OR = 2.080, 95 % CI = 0.422-10.25, p = 0.368, respectively). However, the association in Asians was not significant after Bonferroni correction (pcorrected = 0.245).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrated that there was no association between MICA-TM polymorphisms and SLE susceptibility, but that the MICA-TM A9 allele was associated with an RA risk in Asians. Moreover, the association between the MICA-TM A4 phenotype and AS was HLA-B27-dependent.

Meta-Analysis of Associations Between Interleukin-10 Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Vasculitis

OBJECTIVE

This study determined whether interleukin-10 (IL-10) polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to vasculitis.

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted of the associations between the IL-10 -1082 G/A, -819 C/T, and -592 C/A polymorphisms and the haplotype of the IL-10-1082 G/A, -819 C/T, -592 C/A polymorphisms and vasculitis.

RESULTS

A total of 21 comparative studies involving 4121 patients and 5504 controls were considered in the meta-analysis. Meta-analysis revealed no association between the IL-10-1082 G allele and vasculitis in all study subjects (OR = 0.927, 95% CI = 0.780-1.102, p = 0.389). However, disease-specific meta-analysis showed an association between Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) and the IL-10-1082 G allele (OR = 0.729, 95% CI = 0.547-0.971, p = 0.031). Meta-analysis revealed an association between vasculitis and the IL-10-819 C allele (OR = 0.804, 95% CI = 0.706-0.916, p = 0.001) in all study subjects and Behcet's disease (BD) (OR = 0.724, 95% CI = 0.679-0.781, p < 1.0 × 10(-9)). Meta-analysis of the IL-10-592 C allele showed an association with vasculitis in all study subjects (OR = 0.805, 95% CI = 0.619-0.938, p = 0.005) and BD (OR = 0.718, 95% CI = 0.661-0.781, p < 1.0 × 10(-9)). Meta-analysis of the IL-10 haplotype revealed an association between the GCC haplotype and vasculitis in Europeans (OR = 1.239, 95% CI = 1.105-1.513, p = 0.035).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis showed that IL-10 polymorphisms are associated with vasculitis susceptibility, especially in WG and BD.

Chemokine receptor 5 Δ32 polymorphism and systemic lupus erythematosus, vasculitis, and primary Sjogren's syndrome. Meta-analysis of possible associations

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether the functional chemokine receptor 5 delta32 (CCR5-Δ32) polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), vasculitis, and primary Sjogren's syndrome (pSS).

RESULTS

A total of 12 studies were analyzed, including 5 on SLE, 5 on vasculitis, and 2 on pSS, encompassing 1881 patients and 2391 controls. Meta-analysis indicated no association between SLE and the CCR5-Δ32 allele (OR 0.842, 95 % CI 0.793-1.804, p = 0.657), and no association between the CCR5-Δ32 allele and SLE in Europeans (OR 0.647, 95 % CI 0.306-1.368, p = 0.255). Meta-analysis of the CCR5-Δ32 allele and the Δ32Δ32 + Δ32 W genotype showed no association with lupus nephritis (LN; OR 1.771, 95 % CI 0.475-6.595, p = 0.395; OR 2.192, 95 % CI 0.182-26.42, p = 0.537, respectively). In addition, meta-analysis revealed no association between the CCR5-Δ32 allele and vasculitis in all study subjects and in Europeans (OR 1.241, 95 % CI 0.951-1.620, p = 0.111; OR 1.359, 95 % CI 0.803-2.303, p = 0.254, respectively). However, the overall OR for the CCR5-Δ32 allele was significantly higher in Kawasaki disease (KD; OR 1.746, 95 % CI 1.003-2.955, p = 0.038) and the meta-analysis of the Δ32Δ32 + Δ32 W genotype showed a trend indicating an association with KD (OR 1.683, 95 % CI 0.921-3.077, p = 0.091). No association was found between the CCR5-Δ32 polymorphism and pSS.

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrates that the CCR5-Δ32 polymorphism is associated with KD, but does not facilitate susceptibility to SLE, LN, or pSS.

Interleukin-18 promoter -607 C/A and -137 G/C polymorphisms and susceptibility to type 1 diabetes: A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether the functional interleukin-18 (IL-18) promoter -607 C/A (rs1946518) and -137 G/C (rs187238) polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to type 1 diabetes (TID).

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the associations between the IL-18 -607 C/A and -137 G/C polymorphisms and T1D in overall and by ethnic group.

RESULTS

A total of 6075 cases and 5744 controls from ten studies were considered in this meta-analysis. In all study subjects, the meta-analysis showed no association between T1D and the IL-18 -607 C allele (OR=1.083, 95% CI=0.930-1.260, p=0.307). However, stratification by ethnicity indicated an association between the IL-18 -607 C allele and T1D in Asians (OR=1.506, 95% CI=1.172-1.936, p=0.001), but not in Europeans (OR=0.988, 95% CI=0.808-1.209, p=0.907). Analysis using recessive and dominant models and homozygote contrast showed the same -607 C allele pattern in Asians and Europeans. Meta-analysis of the IL-18 -137 G/C polymorphism showed no association between T1D and the IL-18 -137 G allele in all study subjects (OR=1.066, 95% CI=0.926-1.2289, p=0.375). Stratification by ethnicity indicated no association between the IL-18 -137 G allele and T1D in Europeans and Asians (OR=1.021, 95% CI=0.961-1.085, p=0.504; OR=0.851, 95% CI=0.5821-1.245, p=0.406).

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis demonstrates that the IL-18 -607 C/A polymorphism may be associated with susceptibility to T1D in Asians, but not in Europeans.

Antibody-independent functions of B cells: a focus on cytokines

Cytokine production by B cells is important for multiple aspects of immunity. B cell-derived cytokines, including lymphotoxin, are essential for the ontogenesis, homeostasis and activation of secondary lymphoid organs, as well as for the development of tertiary lymphoid tissues at ectopic sites. Other B cell-derived cytokines, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon-γ and tumour necrosis factor, influence the development of effector and memory CD4(+) T cell responses. Finally, B cells can regulate inflammatory immune responses, primarily through their provision of IL-10 and IL-35. This Review summarizes these various roles of cytokine-producing B cells in immunity and discusses the rational for targeting these cells in the clinic.

Meta-analysis of functional MBL polymorphisms. Associations with rheumatoid arthritis and primary Sjögren's syndrome

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether functional mannose-binding lectin gene (MBL) polymorphisms are associated with the susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS).

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the potential association of RA or pSS with MBL polymorphisms, including the codon 54 (allele B), codon 57 (allele C), and codon 52 (allele D) variants of exon 1, and the - 550 (allele L) and - 221 (allele X) promoter variants.

RESULTS

A total of 12 comparative studies, including eight RA (1623 patients and 1671 controls) and four pSS (280 patients and 516 controls) studies, were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed no association between the MBL B allele and RA in the overall study population (odds ratio [OR] 0.991, 95 % confidence interval [CI] 0.726-1.355, p = 0.957). However, the meta-analysis showed significant associations between the MBL D, H, and X alleles and RA in the overall population (OR 1.708, 95 % CI 1.077-2.707, p = 0.023; OR 1.936, 95 % CI 1.218-3.078, p = 0.005; OR 1.582, 95 % CI 1.216-2.057, p = 0.001, respectively). An association was found between the MBL B allele and pSS in the overall study population (OR 0.691, 95 % CI 0.541-0.917, p = 0.010). Stratification by ethnicity indicated a trend toward an association between the B allele and pSS in European populations, but no association in Asian populations (OR 0.689, 95 % CI 0.465-1.021, p = 0.063; OR 0.896, 95 % CI 0.311-2.562, p = 0.838, respectively).

CONCLUSION

This meta-analysis demonstrated an association between the MBL D, L, and X alleles and the risk of RA. It also demonstrated an association between the MBL B allele and the susceptibility to pSS, suggesting a protective role of the MBL B allele against the development of pSS.

A meta-analysis examining the association between the MUC5B rs35705950 T/G polymorphism and susceptibility to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis

OBJECTIVE

To explore whether the mucin (MUC) 5B rs35705950 T/G polymorphism confers susceptibility to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted to determine associations between the MUC5B rs35705950 T/G polymorphism and either IPF or connective tissue disease-associated interstitial lung disease (CTD-ILD). We used the allele contrast, recessive, dominant, and additive models. A total of 12 IPF studies comprising 2859 patients and 6901 controls and four CTD-ILD studies involving 903 patients and 3306 controls were included in the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

There was a significant association between the Tallele of the MUC5B rs35705950 polymorphism and IPF in all subjects (OR 3.768, 95 % CI 2.935-4.836, p < 1.0 × 10(-8)). Analysis after stratification by ethnicity indicated that the Tallele was significantly associated with IPF in Europeans and Asians (OR 3.728, 95 % CI 2.858-4.863, p < 1.0 × 10(-8); OR 4.334, 95 % CI 2.186-8.594, p = 2.6 × 10(-6)). However, there was no association between the Tallele and CTD-ILD in all subjects (OR 1.130, 95 % CI 0.937-1.363, p = 0.200), and in Europeans and Asians. Subgroup analysis by CTD type revealed no association between the Tallele and systemic sclerosis-associated ILD (SSc-ILD) and other CTD-ILDs.

CONCLUSIONS

The MUC5B rs35705950 T/G polymorphism confers susceptibility to IPF in Europeans and Asians, but is not associated with susceptibility to CTD-ILD.

Meta-analysis of genetic association studies

The object of this review is to help readers to understand meta-analysis of genetic association study. Genetic association studies are a powerful approach to identify susceptibility genes for common diseases. However, the results of these studies are not consistently reproducible. In order to overcome the limitations of individual studies, larger sample sizes or meta-analysis is required. Meta-analysis is a statistical tool for combining results of different studies on the same topic, thus increasing statistical strength and precision. Meta-analysis of genetic association studies combines the results from independent studies, explores the sources of heterogeneity, and identifies subgroups associated with the factor of interest. Meta-analysis of genetic association studies is an effective tool for garnering a greater understanding of complex diseases and potentially provides new insights into gene-disease associations.

Pathologic patterns of interleukin 10 expression--a review

Interleukin 10 (IL-10) is important pleiotropic immunoregulatory cytokine which gene is located on chromosome 1 at 1q31-32. There are many genetic variants of IL-10 gene. However, the most studied are two dinucleotide repeats (microsatellites), IL10.G and IL10.R, located 1.2 kb and 4 kb upstream of the transcription start site and three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) -1082(G/A), -819(C/T) and -592(C/A). A large number of studies have shown that IL-10 gene polymorphisms are associated with different diseases and play an important role in pathophysiology and clinical course of these diseases. This review summarizes published literature knowledge about the association of IL-10 polymorphisms and expression patterns with asthma, systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis and some neoplasms.

Association between the functional ITGAM rs1143679 G/A polymorphism and systemic lupus erythematosus/lupus nephritis or rheumatoid arthritis: an update meta-analysis

The aim of this study was to determine whether the functional integrin-α-M (ITGAM) rs1143679 polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), lupus nephritis (LN), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A series of meta-analyses were conducted to test for associations between the ITGAM rs1143679 polymorphism and SLE, LN, or RA. A total of 24 comparisons involving 7,738 patients and 8,309 controls for SLE, and 2,663 patients and 2,694 controls in RA were considered. Meta-analysis showed a significant association between the ITGAM rs1143679 A allele and SLE in all subjects (OR 1.773, 95 % CI 1.656, 1.901, p < 1.0 × 10(-9)). After stratification by ethnicity, the A allele was found to be significantly associated with SLE in European, Latin American, and Asian. A significant association was also found between the ITGAM A allele and lupus nephritis in Europeans (OR 2.131, 95 % CI 1.565, 2.903, p = 1.6 × 10(-7)). However, no association was found between RA and the ITGAM rs1143679 polymorphism. Our meta-analyses confirm that the ITGAM rs1143679 polymorphism is associated with SLE susceptibility in different ethnic groups and demonstrate that the polymorphism is associated with LN in European.

IL-10 promoter polymorphisms influence susceptibility to aGvHD and are associated with proportions of CD4+FoxP3+ lymphocytes in blood after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Four hundred and ninety-five patients (390 and 105 grafted from unrelated and sibling (SIB) donors, respectively) and their donors were analyzed for the impact of interleukin-10 (IL-10) promoter genotype [rs18000896 (-1082 G/A), rs18000871 (-819 C/T) and rs18000872 (-592 C/A)] on the outcome of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Patients having ACC haplotype were at a lower risk of acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD, grade > I) if transplanted from human leukocyte antigen (HLA) well-matched (10/10) unrelated donors (20/135 vs 39/117, P < 0.001, Pcorr = 0.002), which was not seen if patients were transplanted from either sibling (SIB) or poorly matched (<10/10) unrelated donors (MUD). In addition, GCC haplotype positive recipients of unrelated donor transplants tended to be more susceptible to aGvHD (68/199 vs 39/169, P = 0.019, Pcorr = 0.057). Multivariate logistic regression analysis in the MUD transplanted group showed that donor-recipient human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatch [odds ratio (OR) = 3.937, P = 0.001] and a lack of ACC haplotype in recipients (OR = 0.417, P = 0.013) played a significant role as independent risk factors of aGvHD grade > I. ACC carriers had higher proportions of FoxP3+ lymphocytes gated in CD4+ lymphocytes as compared with patients with other IL-10 haplotypes. It was seen at the time of hematological recovery (mean ± SEM: 3.80 ± 0.91% vs 2.06 ± 0.98%, P = 0.012) and 2 weeks later (5.32 ± 0.87% vs 2.50 ± 0.83%, P = 0.013); -592 C/A polymorphism was separately analyzed and it was found that AA homozygotes tended to have a higher incidence of aGvHD (8/15 vs 116/456, P = 0.034) and low proportions of FoxP3 CD4+ lymphocytes in blood (0.43 ± 0.22% vs 4.32 ± 0.71%, P = 0.051) measured 2 weeks after hematological recovery. Functional IL-10 polymorphism associated features influenced the risk of aGvHD with a positive effect of ACC on the pool of Treg in blood.

The insertion/deletion polymorphism in the angiotensin-converting enzyme and susceptibility to schizophrenia or Parkinson's disease: A meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to examine whether the insertion (I) and deletion (D) polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) confers susceptibility to schizophrenia and Parkinson's disease (PD).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A meta-analysis was performed of the associations between the ACE I/D polymorphism and schizophrenia and PD.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies with 2024 cases and 2230 controls comprising eight studies on schizophrenia and five on PD were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed no association between the ACE D allele and schizophrenia (OR = 0.990, 95% CI = 0.889-1.102, p = 0.856) or PD (OR = 1.067, 95% CI = 0.907-1.255, p = 0.433). Stratification by ethnicity indicated no association between the ACE D allele and schizophrenia in European, Asian, or Turkish ethnic groups (OR = 0.896, 95% CI = 0.566-1.419, p = 0.640; OR = 1.057, 95% CI = 0.903-1.238, p = 0.492; OR = 1.111, 95% CI = 0.889-1.389, p = 0.354, respectively). Ethnicity-specific meta-analysis was not conducted for PD because only one ethnic PD study was available.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis found no association between the ACE I/D polymorphism and schizophrenia or PD.

Coherent somatic mutation in autoimmune disease

BACKGROUND

Many aspects of autoimmune disease are not well understood, including the specificities of autoimmune targets, and patterns of co-morbidity and cross-heritability across diseases. Prior work has provided evidence that somatic mutation caused by gene conversion and deletion at segmentally duplicated loci is relevant to several diseases. Simple tandem repeat (STR) sequence is highly mutable, both somatically and in the germ-line, and somatic STR mutations are observed under inflammation.

RESULTS

Protein-coding genes spanning STRs having markers of mutability, including germ-line variability, high total length, repeat count and/or repeat similarity, are evaluated in the context of autoimmunity. For the initiation of autoimmune disease, antigens whose autoantibodies are the first observed in a disease, termed primary autoantigens, are informative. Three primary autoantigens, thyroid peroxidase (TPO), phogrin (PTPRN2) and filaggrin (FLG), include STRs that are among the eleven longest STRs spanned by protein-coding genes. This association of primary autoantigens with long STR sequence is highly significant (p<3.0x10(-7)). Long STRs occur within twenty genes that are associated with sixteen common autoimmune diseases and atherosclerosis. The repeat within the TTC34 gene is an outlier in terms of length and a link with systemic lupus erythematosus is proposed.

CONCLUSIONS

The results support the hypothesis that many autoimmune diseases are triggered by immune responses to proteins whose DNA sequence mutates somatically in a coherent, consistent fashion. Other autoimmune diseases may be caused by coherent somatic mutations in immune cells. The coherent somatic mutation hypothesis has the potential to be a comprehensive explanation for the initiation of many autoimmune diseases.

The importance of evolution in the development and course of rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex autoimmune disease of recent evolutionary origin. Genetic drift determines diverse polymorphisms implicated in the susceptibility to RA including the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II genes in the so-called shared epitope. These genes originated after the divergence between Homo and Pan from their common ancestry Ardipithecus ramidus about 5 million years ago. Natural selection determined the particular changes in the legs (bipedal position), hands, neck, brain and eusociality in humans which influence the clinical presentation of RA. In this article, we hypothesized that the origin and course of RA may be explainable in the light of evolution.

Functional FCGR3A 158 V/F and IL-6 -174 C/G polymorphisms predict response to biologic therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the Fc gamma receptor 3A (FCGR3A) 158 V/F and interleukin-6 (IL-6) promoter -174 G/C polymorphisms can predict the response to biologic-based therapy in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We conducted a meta-analysis of studies on the association between the FCGR3A V/F polymorphism or the IL-6 -174 C/G polymorphism and non-responsiveness to biologic therapy in RA patients. A total of 10 studies involving 1,427 patients were considered. These studies consisted of seven studies on the FCGR3A polymorphism and three studies on the IL-6 polymorphism. Meta-analysis showed no association between the FCGR3A VV+VF genotype and non-responders to biologic therapy [odds ratio (OR) 0.881, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0.505-1.537, p = 0.655]. However, stratification by biologic type indicated an association between the FCGR3A VV+VF genotype and non-responders to rituximab (OR 0.566, 95 % CI 0.373-0.857, p = 0.007), but no association was found in non-responders to tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-blockers (OR 1.337, 95 % CI 0.869-2.056, p = 0.186). Meta-analysis revealed no association between the IL-6 CC+CG genotype and non-responders to the biologics (OR 3.233, 95 % CI 0.766-13.64, p = 0.110). However, an association was found between the IL-6 CC+CG genotype and non-responders to anti-TNF therapy (OR 8.030, 95 % CI 1.807-33.68, p = 0.006). This meta-analysis demonstrates that FCGR3A V allele carriers show a better response to rituximab, and individuals carrying the IL-6 -174 C allele show a poorer response to anti-TNF therapy for RA. Genotyping for these polymorphisms may be a useful tool for predicting the response to biologics with respect to personalized medicine.

Meta-analysis of associations between the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ Pro12Ala polymorphism and susceptibility to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study was to examine whether a Proline (Pro)-to-Alanine (Ala) exchange at codon 12 (Pro12Ala) polymorphism of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) is associated with susceptibility to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted on the association between the PPARγ Pro12Ala polymorphism and NAFLD, RA, and PsA.

RESULTS

Nine studies, including five on NAFLD, two on RA, and two on PsA, were available for the meta-analysis consisting of 8082 cases and 3790 controls. The meta-analysis revealed no association between the Ala allele of the PPARγ Pro12Ala polymorphism and NAFLD (odds ratios [OR]=0.936, 95% confidence interval [CI]=0.672-1.302, p=0.693). However, stratification by ethnicity indicated an association between the Ala allele and NAFLD in East Asians (OR=0.700, 95% CI=0.496-0.987, p=0.042), but not in Europeans (OR=1.128, 95% CI=0.863-1.475, p=0.378). Analysis using the dominant model showed the same Ala allele pattern in East Asians and Europeans (OR=0.688, 95% CI=0.484-0.978, p=0.037; OR=1.051, 95% CI=0.782-1.413, p=0.742), demonstrating a significant association between the Ala allele and NAFLD in East Asians. The meta-analysis revealed no association between the Ala allele and RA in East Asians (OR=0.467, 95% CI=0.188-1.161, p=0.101), and no association was found between the Ala allele and PsA in Europeans (OR=0.869, 95% CI=0.465-1.627, p=0.662).

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis demonstrates that the PPARγ Pro12Ala polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to NAFLD in East Asians, but not in European populations.

Vitamin D receptor FokI, BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI polymorphisms and susceptibility to ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to explore whether vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to ovarian cancer.

METHODS

Meta-analyses were conducted on the associations between the VDR FokI, BsmI, ApaI, and TaqI polymorphisms and ovarian cancer.

RESULTS

A total of 12 comparison studies were considered in the meta-analysis, which involved 3716 patients and 5059 controls. Meta-analysis of the VDR FokI polymorphism showed an association between ovarian cancer and the f allele in European populations (OR = 1.094, 95% CI = 1.028-1.163, p = 0.004). Meta-analysis revealed an association between ovarian cancer and the ApaI A allele in all study subjects and Europeans as a sub-group (OR = 1.235, 95% CI = 1.019-1.497, p = 0.032 and OR = 1.287, 95% CI = 1.029-1.609, p = 0.027, respectively). No association was found between ovarian cancer and the BsmI and Taq polymorphisms (OR for B allele = 1.084, 95% CI = 0.936-1.255, p = 0.280, OR for the T allele = OR = 0.847, 95% CI = 0.706-1.270, p = 0.716).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggests that the VDR FokI and ApaI polymorphisms are associated with susceptibility to ovarian cancer in European populations.

Gene-environmental interaction between smoking and shared epitope on the development of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies in rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine the gene-environment interactions of smoking and shared epitope (SE) both separately and combined on anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibodies in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

The literature was searched using the MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane databases. A meta-analysis on the associations between tobacco exposure (TE) and/or SE and the development of anti-CCP antibodies in patients with RA was performed.

RESULTS

Eight comparison studies with 5317 RA patients were considered in this meta-analysis. The odds ratio (OR) for positive anti-CCP antibodies in TE+/SE- patients with RA was increased compared with TE-/SE- patients (OR = 1.373, 95% CI = 1.111-1.698, P = 0.003). The ORs for positive anti-CCP antibodies in TE-/SE+ patients and TE+/SE+ patients with RA were also increased compared with TE-/SE- patients (OR = 2.678, 95% CI = 2.031-3.532, P < 1.0 × 1(0-9) in TE-/SE+; OR = 4.233, 95% CI = 2.458-7.291, P = 1.9 × 10(-8) in TE+/SE+). Stratification by ethnicity indicated the same pattern as that shown in the overall group. The OR for positive anti-CCP antibodies in TE+/SE+ patients with RA was much higher than in TE-/SE- patients in Europeans and Asians (OR = 3.879, 95% CI = 2.203-6.830, P = 2.6 × 10(-7); OR = 10.504, 95% CI = 3.182-34.67, P = 1.1 × 10(-4)).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggests a gene-environmental interaction between smoking and SE for the development of anti-CCP antibodies.

Interleukin-4, interleukin-4 receptor, and interleukin-18 polymorphisms and rheumatoid arthritis: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to determine whether the functional interleukin-4 (IL-4) -590 C/T, IL-4 receptor (IL-4R) 1902 G/A, IL-18 -607 C/A, and -137 G/C polymorphisms polymorphisms confer susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

Meta-analysis was conducted on the associations between these IL-4, IL-4R, and IL-18 polymorphisms and RA.

RESULTS

A total of 12 comparative studies were included in this meta-analysis. Meta-analysis of the IL-4 -590 C/T polymorphism showed an association in all study subjects and Europeans (OR for the TT genotype = 2.280, 95% CI = 1.315-3.952, p = 0.003; OR = 2.139, 95% CI = 1.089-4.199, p = 0.027). However, meta-analysis showed no association between RA and the IL-4R 1902 G allele in all study subjects and Europeans. Meta-analysis showed no association between RA and the IL-18 -607 C allele (OR = 1.159, 95% CI = 0.967-1.387, p = 0.110). Meta-analysis of the IL-18 -137 G/C polymorphism revealed no association between RA and the IL-18 -137 G/C polymorphism.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis demonstrates that the IL-4 -590 T/C polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to RA in Europeans, but the IL-4R + 1902 G/A, IL-18 -607 C/A and -137 G/C polymorphisms are not associated with RA.

Interferon gamma and Interleukin 10 polymorphisms in Brazilian patients with systemic lupus erythematosus

The pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is complex, with several susceptibility genes and environmental factors involved in its development and clinical manifestation. Currently, there is a great amount of interest in the identification of biomarkers, as cytokines, that can quantify the susceptibility of SLE, the risk of future organ involvement, and association of their changes with disease activity. To investigate the associations between polymorphisms in the gene of Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and in the promoter of the Interleukin-10 (IL-10) gene and SLE. The polymorphisms +874 T/A (rs2430561) in the IFN-γ gene and -1082G/A (rs1800896) in the IL-10 promoter were determined in 99 SLE patients and 100 healthy controls among women Brazilian using the refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction method. Disease activity was assessed using the SLE activity index. There were significant differences in the distribution of the genotype T/A in IFN-γ gene polymorphism (+874) (χ (2) = 7.168; P = 0.0074) and the genotype G/A in IL-10 promoter polymorphism (-1082) (χ (2) = 4.654; P = 0.0310) between the SLE and control groups. However, no association was observed between clinical features and the polymorphisms studied. This study presents preliminary evidence for association between IL-10 and IFN-γ polymorphism and SLE susceptibility, but not with clinical features in a Northeast population from Brazil.