Chromosome preparations of leukocytes cultured from human peripheral blood

Primary amenorrhoea - cytogenetic study in 40 Indian women

BACKGROUND

Primary amenorrhoea (PA) refers to an ailment when adolescent girls do not attain menarche naturally. It is one of the most common gynaecological disorders specified. Chromosomal abnormalities play a pivotal role in PA. Cytogenetic analysis is an indispensable diagnostic tool to determine the abnormality of the chromosome. In an emerging country like India, cytogenetic analysis is at a nascent stage. There are very few studies on Cytogenetics present in eastern India, including West Bengal. In rural and suburban areas PA sufferers often experience late diagnosis and struggle to access suitable curative management. The aim of the study is to evaluate the various types of chromosomal abnormalities in patients suffering from PA for accurate, better management of the same and further counselling.

METHODS

A total of 40 PA cases were referred by obstetricians and gynaecologists to the Department of Genetics of Nirnayan Health Care, Kolkata. To screen the chromosomal abnormalities, human leukocyte culture was accomplished with their peripheral venous blood followed by G-banding and then karyotyping was executed according to ISCN-2020.

RESULT

Out of 40 patients, 29 were normal among which 46,XX was found in 70% cases (n = 28) and 46,XX,9qh + in 2.5% (n = 1). The remaining 11 showed different types of abnormalities. 45,X was found in 10% (n = 4), 46,X,i(X)(q10) in 2.5% (n = 1), 46,X,del(X)(p11.2) in 2.5% (n = 1), 46,X,del(X)(p22.1) in 2.5% (n = 1), 46,X,del(X)(q24) in 2.5% (n = 1), 46,XY in 2.5% (n = 1), mos 45,X[22]/46,Xi(X)(q.10)[8] in 2.5% (n = 1) and mos 45,X[16]/46,XY[14] (2.5%) in 2.5% (n = 1).

CONCLUSION

This study indicates the importance of chromosomal study which must be included in early diagnosis of PA. Karyotyping at the appropriate phase of life will not only help in the judicial management of this disorder but will also give young girls a better lifestyle.

Cell Cycle Kinetics and Sister Chromatid Exchange in Mosaic Turner Syndrome

Turner syndrome (TS) is caused by a complete or partial absence of an X or Y chromosome, including chromosomal mosaicism, affecting 1 in 2500 female live births. Sister chromatid exchange (SCE) is used as a sensitive indicator of spontaneous chromosome instability. Cells from mosaic patients constitute useful material for SCE evaluations as they grow under the influence of the same genetic background and endogenous and exogenous factors. We evaluated the proliferation dynamics and SCE frequencies of 45,X and 46,XN cells of 17 mosaic TS patients. In two participants, the 45,X cells exhibited a proliferative disadvantage in relation to 46,XN cells after 72 h of cultivation. The analysis of the mean proliferation index (PI) showed a trend for a significant difference between the 45,X and 46,X+der(X)/der(Y) cell lineages; however, there were no intra-individual differences. On the other hand, mean SCE frequencies showed that 46,X+der(X) had the highest mean value and 46,XX the lowest, with 45,X occupying an intermediate position among the lineages found in at least three participants; moreover, there were intra-individual differences in five patients. Although 46,X+der(X)/der(Y) cell lineages, found in more than 70% of participants, were the most unstable, they had a slightly higher mean PI than the 45,X cell lineages in younger (≤17 years) mosaic TS participants. This suggests that cells with a karyotype distinct from 45,X may increase with time in mosaic TS children and adolescents.

The likelihood of detecting abnormal karyotypes in fetuses with a single major anomaly or "soft" marker on ultrasonographic scanning

OBJECTIVE

Fetuses with abnormal karyotypes often exhibit distinctive ultrasonographic markers, including major anomalies and "soft" markers, indicating potential chromosomal issues. A crucial consideration arises when a single fetal anomaly is detected, raising the question of whether karyotyping is warranted, given the associated procedural risks. Our objective was to establish correlations between single fetal anomalies identified through ultrasound and chromosomal abnormalities.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study analyzed the karyotype of 1493 fetuses and detected a single ultrasonographic anomaly over a 16-year period. Karyotyping was performed using the standard karyotype technique. Moreover, data regarding the type of anomaly detected ultrasonographically, karyotype results, and outcomes following interventions were collected. Among other methods, the use of positive likelihood ratios (LR+) was used to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound compared to karyotyping.

RESULTS

In total, an aberrant karyotype was identified in 99 fetuses (6.6%). This was most commonly observed in cases involving a "soft" marker, occurring in 27 out of 218 fetuses (12.4%). The most frequently detected aberrant karyotype resulted from aneuploidies (80.6% of cases), notably trisomy 21 (50.5%). "Soft" markers predicted chromosomal issues (LR+ = 1.9; OR = 2.4), and isolated polyhydramnios (LR+ = 1.54; OR = 1.6) showed significance in predicting fetal chromosomal aberrations.

CONCLUSION

When assessing the necessity for karyotyping in fetuses with single major anomalies or "soft" markers, it is crucial to consider individual risks for chromosomopathies, including the LR+ of the detected marker. In cases where fetuses exhibit isolated anomalies with a normal karyotype, additional diagnostic measures, such as molecular cytogenetic and molecular genetics techniques, may become necessary.

In vitro assessment of the antioxidative, toxicological and antimicrobial properties of battery of parabens

The aim of this study was to evaluate antioxidative features using 2,2-diphenyl-1-pycrylhydrazyl free radical (DPPH•) scavenging method, bovine serum albumin (BSA)-binding properties with usage of spectrofluorimetric method, proliferative and cyto/genotoxic status by use of chromosome aberration test, and antimicrobial potential using broth microdilution method, followed by resazurin assay of benzyl-, isopropyl-, isobutyl and phenylparaben in vitro. Our results showed that all parabens had significant antiradical scavenger activity compared to p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA) precursor. Higher mitotic index for benzyl-, isopropyl and isobutylparaben (250 µg/mL) in comparison with control was demonstrated. An increase in the frequency of acentric fragments in lymphocytes treated with benzylparaben and isopropylparaben (125 and 250 µg/mL), and isobutylparaben (250 µg/mL) was observed. Isobutylparaben (250 µg/mL) induced higher number of dicentric chromosomes. An increased number of minute fragments in lymphocytes exposed to benzylparaben (125 and 250 µg/mL) was found. A significant difference in the frequency of chromosome pulverization, between phenylparaben (250 µg/mL) and control, was detected. Benzylparaben (250 µg/mL) and phenylparaben (62.5 µg/mL) caused an increase in the number of apoptotic cells, while isopropylparaben (62.5, 125 and 250 µg/mL) and isobutylparaben (62.5 and 125 µg/mL) induced higher frequency of necrosis. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of tested parabens ranged 15.62-250 µg/mL for bacteria, and 125-500 µg/mL for the yeast. Minimum microbiocidal concentration ranged 31.25 to 500 µg/mL, and 250 to 1000 µg/mL in bacteria and fungi respectively. The lowest MICs for bacteria were observed for phenyl- (15.62 µg/mL) and isopropylparaben (31.25 µg/mL) against Enterococcus faecalis.

Evaluation of oxidative stress and genetic instability among residents near mobile phone base stations in Germany

Human exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic fields (RF-EMF) is restricted to prevent thermal effects in the tissue. However, at very low intensity exposure "non-thermal" biological effects, like oxidative stress, DNA or chromosomal aberrations, etc. collectively termed genomic-instability can occur after few hours. Little is known about chronic (years long) exposure with non-thermal RF-EMF. We identified two neighboring housing estates in a rural region with residents exposed to either relatively low (control-group) or relatively high (exposed-group) RF-EMF emitted from nearby mobile phone base stations (MPBS). 24 healthy adults that lived in their homes at least for 5 years volunteered. The homes were surveyed for common types of EMF, blood samples were tested for oxidative status, transient DNA alterations, permanent chromosomal damage, and specific cancer related genetic markers, like MLL gene rearrangements. We documented possible confounders, like age, sex, nutrition, life-exposure to ionizing radiation (X-rays), occupational exposures, etc. The groups matched well, age, sex, lifestyle and occupational risk factors were similar. The years long exposure had no measurable effect on MLL gene rearrangements and c-Abl-gene transcription modification. Associated with higher exposure, we found higher levels of lipid oxidation and oxidative DNA-lesions, though not statistically significant. DNA double strand breaks, micronuclei, ring chromosomes, and acentric chromosomes were not significantly different between the groups. Chromosomal aberrations like dicentric chromosomes (p=0.007), chromatid gaps (p=0.019), chromosomal fragments (p<0.001) and the total of chromosomal aberrations (p<0.001) were significantly higher in the exposed group. No potential confounder interfered with these findings. Increased rates of chromosomal aberrations as linked to excess exposure with ionizing radiation may also occur with non-ionizing radiation exposure. Biological endpoints can be informative for designing exposure limitation strategies. Further research is warranted to investigate the dose-effect-relationship between both, exposure intensity and exposure time, to account for endpoint accumulations after years of exposure. As established for ionizing radiation, chromosomal aberrations could contribute to the definition of protection thresholds, as their rate reflects exposure intensity and exposure time.

Hellebrigenin triggers death of promyelocytic leukemia cells by non-genotoxic ways

Bufadienolides are digitalis-like aglycones mainly found in skin secretions of toads. Among their biological properties, the mechanisms of antiproliferative action on tumor cells remain unclear for many compounds, including against leukemia cells. Herein, it was evaluated the mechanisms involved in the antiproliferative and genotoxic actions of hellebrigenin on tumor cell lines and in silico capacity to inhibit the human topoisomerase IIa enzyme. Firstly, its cytotoxic action was investigated by colorimetric assays in human tumor and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Next, biochemical and morphological studies were detailed by light microscopy (trypan blue dye exclusion), immunocytochemistry (BrdU uptake), flow cytometry and DNA/chromosomal damages (Cometa and aberrations). Finally, computational modelling was used to search for topoisomerase inhibition. Hellebrigenin reduced proliferation, BrdU incorporation, viability, and membrane integrity of HL-60 leukemia cells. Additionally, it increased G2/M arrest, internucleosomal DNA fragmentation, mitochondrial depolarization, and phosphatidylserine externalization in a concentration-dependent manner. In contrast to doxorubicin, hellebrigenin did not cause DNA strand breaks in HL-60 cell line and lymphocytes, and it interacts with ATPase domain residues of human topoisomerase IIa, generating a complex of hydrophobic and van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonds. So, hellebrigenin presented potent anti-leukemic activity at concentrations as low as 0.06 μM, a value comparable to the clinical anticancer agent doxorubicin, and caused biochemical changes suggestive of apoptosis without genotoxic/clastogenic-related action, but it probably triggers catalytic inhibition of topoisomerase II. These findings also emphasize toad steroid toxins as promising lead antineoplasic compounds with relatively low cytotoxic action on human normal cells.

Sulfoxaflor insecticide exhibits cytotoxic or genotoxic and apoptotic potential via oxidative stress-associated DNA damage in human blood lymphocytes cell cultures

The need for foodstuff that emerged with the rapidly increasing world population made fertilizers and pesticides inevitable to obtain maximum efficiency from existing agricultural areas. Sulfoxaflor is currently the only member of the new sulfoximine insecticide subclass of nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonists. In the study, it was aimed to determine the in vitro genetic, oxidative damage potential, genotoxic and apoptotic effects of three different concentrations (10 µg/mL, 20 µg/mL and 40 µg/mL) of sulfoxaflor insecticide in the cultures of blood lymphocytes. In this study, the single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet), Cytokinesis Block Micronuclues Test (MN test), flow cytometry and measurement of Catalase (CAT) enzyme activity were used to determine genotoxic, apoptotic effects and oxidative damage potential, respectively. It found that there is a decrease in CPBI values and Live cell numbers. It was observed an increase in late apoptotic and necrotic cell numbers, Micronucleus frequency, and Comet analysis parameters (GDI and DCP). There is a significant difference between negative control and all concentration of insecticide for Cytokinesis Block Proliferation Index (CBPI) values and late apoptotic, necrotic and viable cell counts. An increase in CAT enzyme levels was observed at 10 and 20 µg/mL concentrations compared to control., It is found that CAT enzyme activity was inhibited at concentrations of 40 µg/mL. This study is crucial as it is the first study to investigate the impact of Sulfoxaflor insecticide on peripheral blood lymphocyte cells. The genotoxic, oxidative damage, and apoptotic effects of Sulfoxafluor insecticide on the results obtained and its adverse effects on other organisms raise concerns about health and safety.

The Types and Frequencies of X Chromosome Abnormalities in Women with Reproductive Problems

INTRODUCTION

X chromosome architecture and integrity are essential for normal ovarian function. Both numerical and structural X chromosome abnormalities play an important role in female infertility. This study aimed to determine the types and frequency of X chromosome aberrations detected in women referred for cytogenetic investigation due to reproductive problems.

METHODS

2,936 women (average age: 37.5 years) were enrolled in the present study. Peripheral blood karyotyping was performed by conventional cytogenetic techniques. For each woman, 20 G-banded metaphases were studied and in case of suspected mosaicism, analysis was extended to 100 metaphases.

RESULTS

2,588/2,936 (88.15%) of women had a normal karyotype (46,XX), while 348/2,936 (11.85%) had an abnormal one. Thirty-two women (1.09%) carried autosomal chromosome abnormalities and 316 (10.76%) had X chromosome rearrangements. In 311/2,936 women (10.59%), X chromosome numerical aberrations were detected (low-level mosaicism), and in 5/2,936 cases (0.17%), X structural abnormalities (two with pericentric inversion, one with Xq deletion and two 45,X mosaics, one with an Xp deletion cell line and the other with isochromosome Xq cell line). Low-level X mosaicism was a common finding in women >35 years as compared to younger ones (92.93% vs. 7.07%), a finding consistent with loss of chromosome X with aging. Other X chromosome abnormalities were detected in younger women (32.3 ± 4.13 vs. 41.04 ± 4.5 years). The mean age of women with Turner-like phenotype was 28.75 ± 6.6 years.

CONCLUSION

The study confirms that the incidence of X chromosome abnormalities is increased in women with fertility problems and that karyotype is the gold standard for their identification. Genetic counseling is recommended in these cases to provide information concerning available treatment and fertility options.

Effects of low-dose ionizing radiation on genomic instability in interventional radiology workers

Interventional radiologists are chronically exposed to low-dose ionizing radiation (IR), which may represent a health risk. The aim of the present study was to evaluate genomic instability by analyzing chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei, and 53BP1 DNA repair foci in peripheral blood lymphocytes of radiologists. Based on the IAEA guidelines on biodosimetry using dicentrics, the average protracted whole-body dose in radiologists were estimated. Since preleukemic fusion genes (PFG) are the primary events leading to leukemia, we also studied their presence by RT-qPCR and FISH. No significant difference in 53BP1 foci and incidence of PFG (MLL-AF4, MLL-AF9, AML1-ETO, BCR-ABL p190) was found in cells of interventional radiologists in comparison to controls. However, our results showed an increased frequency of micronuclei and various types of chromosomal aberrations including dicentrics in interventional radiologists. The average protracted whole body estimated dose was defined at 452.63 mGy. We also found a significantly higher amplification of the MLL gene segment and increased RNA expression in cells of interventional radiologists in comparison to controls. In conclusion, our results showed that long-term low-dose IR induces genomic instability in interventional radiologists.

Assessment of Individual Radiosensitivity in Breast Cancer Patients Using a Combination of Biomolecular Markers

About 5% of patients undergoing radiotherapy (RT) develop RT-related side effects. To assess individual radiosensitivity, we collected peripheral blood from breast cancer patients before, during and after the RT, and γH2AX/53BP1 foci, apoptosis, chromosomal aberrations (CAs) and micronuclei (MN) were analyzed and correlated with the healthy tissue side effects assessed by the RTOG/EORTC criteria. The results showed a significantly higher level of γH2AX/53BP1 foci before the RT in radiosensitive (RS) patients in comparison to normal responding patients (NOR). Analysis of apoptosis did not reveal any correlation with side effects. CA and MN assays displayed an increase in genomic instability during and after RT and a higher frequency of MN in the lymphocytes of RS patients. We also studied time kinetics of γH2AX/53BP1 foci and apoptosis after in vitro irradiation of lymphocytes. Higher levels of primary 53BP1 and co-localizing γH2AX/53BP1 foci were detected in cells from RS patients as compared to NOR patients, while no difference in the residual foci or apoptotic response was found. The data suggested impaired DNA damage response in cells from RS patients. We suggest γH2AX/53BP1 foci and MN as potential biomarkers of individual radiosensitivity, but they need to be evaluated with a larger cohort of patients for clinics.

Biological (microfloral) factors of influence on cytogenetic stability during chemical mutagenesis

The article presents the results of a study of chromosomal mutations in residents living in the Aral Sea disaster zone. The present study was designed to evaluate the impact of the combined effect of a chemical mutagen (nickel) and bacterial microflora on the level of chromosomal aberrations (CA) in peripheral blood lymphocytes. This study used classical methods of cell cultivation, methods for determining chromosomal aberrations, a cytomorphological method for assessing epithelial cells, and an atomic absorption method for determining trace elements in the blood. The article shows that with an increase of chemical agent in the blood, the number of cells with features of damage and cells with contamination by microflora increases. Both of these factors cause an increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations. The article demonstrates how being exposed to a chemical factor increases chromosomal mutations, and also damages membrane components, which leads to a decrease in the barrier and protective function of the cell, and as a result also affects the level of chromosomal aberrations.

Fishing for ETV6/RUNX1 fusion and MLL gene rearrangements and their additional abnormalities in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients of Kashmir

OBJECTIVE

Evidence suggests that ETV6/RUNX1 translocation in pediatric acute lymphocytic leukemia shows geographical variation. Therefore, the present study aimed at unveiling the incidence of ETV6/RUNX1 fusion in pediatric acute lymphocytic leukemia cases of this region using fluorescent in-situ hybridization. Besides, we aimed to determine the incidence of MLL gene rearrangement and the pattern of chromosomal abnormalities in this study group.

METHODS

Samples from 57 acute lymphocytic leukemia cases of pediatric age group were subjected to fluorescent in-situ hybridization and conventional cytogenetic analysis using standard methods.

RESULTS

Conventional cytogenetic analysis revealed chromosomal abnormalities in 19.3% cases. The other major chromosomal abnormalities reported were monosomies in 10.5%, hypodiploidy in 7%, marker chromosomes in 3.5% and deletions in 3.5% cases. We found a 44,XX,-7,-18, r(5), i(17q) complex karyotype in one of the cases. Fluorescent in-situ hybridization analysis revealed ETV6/RUNX1 translocation to be present in 28.07% cases and MLL gene rearrangement in 3.5% cases. 12.5% of ETV6/RUNX1 fusion positive cases were found to have a loss of ETV6 allele. Besides, 8.8% cases were found to exhibit a signal pattern suggestive of RUNX1 amplification. ETV6 gene deletion and MLL gene amplification was detected in 3.5% cases each, of our study.

CONCLUSIONS

Frequency of ETV6/RUNX1 fusion oncogene was found to be higher in pediatric ALL cases of Kashmir region as compared to that reported from other parts of India. Besides, a case was found to have a karyotype viz 44,XX,-7,-18, r(5), i(17q) that has not been reported elsewhere in the childhood ALL.

Fold-back mechanism originating inv-dup-del rearrangements in chromosomes 13 and 15

Intrachromosomal rearrangements involve a single chromosome and can be formed by several proposed mechanisms. We reported two patients with intrachromosomal duplications and deletions, whose rearrangements and breakpoints were characterized through karyotyping, chromosomal microarray, fluorescence in situ hybridization, whole-genome sequencing, and Sanger sequencing. Inverted duplications associated with terminal deletions, known as inv-dup-del rearrangements, were found in 13q and 15q in these patients. The presence of microhomology at the junction points led to the proposal of the Fold-back mechanism for their formation. The use of different high-resolution techniques allowed for a better characterization of the rearrangements, with Sanger sequencing of the junction points being essential to infer the mechanisms of formation as it revealed microhomologies that were missed by the previous techniques. A karyotype-phenotype correlation was also performed for the characterized rearrangements.

Genotoxic repercussion of high-intensity radiation (x-rays) on hospital radiographers

Recent technological advances in the medical field have increased the plausibility of exposing humans to high-intensity wavelength radiations like x-rays and gamma rays while diagnosing or treating specific medical maladies. These radiations induce nucleotide changes and chromosomal alterations in the exposed population, intentionally or accidentally. A radiological investigation is regularly used in identifying the disease, especially by the technicians working in intensive care units. The current study observes the genetic damages like chromosomal abnormalities (CA) in clinicians who are occupationally exposed to high-intensity radiations (x-rays) at their workplaces using universal cytogenetic tools like micronucleus assay (MN), sister chromatid exchange and comet assay. The study was conducted between 100 exposed practitioners from the abdominal scanning, chest scanning, cranial and orthopedic or bone scanning department and age-matched healthy controls. We observed a slightly higher rate of MN and CA (p < .05) in orthopedic and chest department practitioners than in other departments concerning increasing age and duration of exposure at work. Our results emphasize taking extra precautionary measures in clinical and hospital radiation laboratories to protect the practitioners.

Comprehensive molecular analysis identifies eight novel variants in XY females with disorders of sex development

Disorders of sex development (DSD) are a group of clinical conditions with variable presentation and genetic background. Females with or without development of secondary sexual characters and presenting with primary amenorrhea (PA) and a 46,XY karyotype are one of the classified groups in DSD. In this study, we aimed to determine the genetic mutations in 25 females with PA and a 46,XY karyotype to show correlations with their phenotypes. Routine Sanger sequencing with candidate genes like SRY, AR, SRD5A2, and SF1, which are mainly responsible for 46,XY DSD in adolescent females, was performed. In a cohort of 25 patients of PA with 46,XY DSD, where routine Sanger sequencing failed to detect the mutations, next-generation sequencing of a targeted gene panel with 81 genes was used for the molecular diagnosis. The targeted sequencing identified a total of 21 mutations including 8 novel variants in 20 out of 25 patients with DSD. The most frequently identified mutations in our series were in AR (36%), followed by SRD5A2 (20%), SF1 (12%), DHX37 (4%), HSD17B3 (4%), and DMRT2 (4%). We could not find any mutation in the DSD-related genes in five (20%) patients due to complex molecular mechanisms in 46,XY DSD, highlighting the possibility of new DSD genes which are yet to be discovered in these disorders. In conclusion, genetic testing, including cytogenetics and molecular genetics, is important for the diagnosis and management of 46,XY DSD cases.

An endophytic Schizophyllum commune possessing antioxidant activity exhibits genoprotective and organprotective effects in fresh water fish Channa punctatus exposed to bisphenol A

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is responsible for the onset of several chronic and degenerative diseases. Exogenous supply of antioxidants is reported to neutralize the effects of oxidative stress. Several synthetic antioxidants suffer from various side effects which necessitates the exploration of antioxidant compounds from natural sources. Endophytic fungi residing in the plants are gaining the attention of researchers as a source of novel antioxidants. Majority of the research conducted so far on endophytic fungi has been restricted to the members of phylum ascomycota. Basidiomycota, inspite of their immense bioactive potential remain relatively unexploited. This study aimed to assess the ameliorative effects of an endophytic Schizophyllum commune (basidiomycetous fungus) against oxidative stress associated altered antioxidant levels, genotoxicity and cellular damage to different organs in bisphenol A exposed fresh water fish Channa punctatus.

RESULTS

Good antioxidant and genoprotective potential was exhibited by S. commune extract in in vitro studies conducted using different antioxidant, DNA damage protection, and cytokinesis blocked micronuclei assays. In vivo studies were performed in fresh water fish Channa punctatus exposed to bisphenol A. A significant decrease in the considered parameters for DNA damage (% micronuclei and comet assay) were recorded in fish treated with S. commune extract on comparison with untreated bisphenol A exposed group. The S. commune extract treated fish also exhibited an increase in the level of antioxidant enzymes viz. catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase as well as histoprotective effect on various organs. GC-MS analysis revealed the presence of 3-n-propyl-2,4-pentanedione, n-heptadecanol-1, trans-geranylgeraniol, 3-ethyl-2-pentadecanone, 1-heneicosanol and squalene as some of the compounds in S. commune extract.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights the significance of an endophytic basidiomycetous fungus S. commune as a source of antioxidant compounds with possible therapeutic potential.

Cytogenetic evaluation of primary amenorrhea: a study of 100 cases at tertiary centre

Background

Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation in women of reproductive age. The physiology of menstruation and reproduction has a strong correlation with the expression of the X chromosome. Early referral for cytogenetic evaluation is recommended for the identification of underlying chromosomal aberrations in amenorrhoea patients. This study aims to estimate the frequency and types of chromosomal abnormalities in primary amenorrhoea (PA) patients in western India and correlate their hormonal profile and sonographic findings with chromosomal reports.

Patients and methods

Clinical features of 100 patients along with their hormonal profile and sonographic findings were recorded. Karyotyping was done after taking informed consent from the patients. Molecular cytogenetic technique was used to confirm marker chromosomes and ring chromosomes.

Results

The results revealed 89% of PA with normal female karyotype (46,XX) and 11% with different abnormal karyotypes. Majority of females with normal karyotype were having Mullerian defects and among them most of them were categorized under Rokitansky syndrome. Among the abnormal karyotype constituents, 27.3% numerical abnormalities, all were Turner syndrome; pure and mosaic. Four cases (36.4%) showed male (XY) karyotype. The other four cases (36.4%) showed structural abnormalities, among which three cases showed X-associated structural abnormality and one case showed balanced translocation.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the need for cytogenetic analysis as an integral part of the diagnostic protocol in the case of PA for precise identification of chromosomal abnormalities; and for appropriate reproductive management. Early detection of abnormalities is necessary for guidance to reproductive options and genetic counselling.

Derivative Chromosome 3 Loss from t(3;6)(q12;q14) Followed by Differential VHL Mutations Underlie Multifocal ccRCC

BACKGROUND/AIM

The Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) gene encodes a protein (pVHL) that plays an important role in proteasome degradation of hypoxia inducible factor α (HIFα) through E3 activation. Accumulation of HIFα by loss of functional pVHL promotes tumorigenesis, thus, VHL has tumor suppressor gene capability in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). VHL is the most frequently mutated gene in ccRCC. The complete loss of VHL is mainly achieved by loss of chromosome 3p, which has a VHL coding region in combination with mutation or hypermethylation of the remaining copy of VHL. Given the risk of constitutional chromosome 3 translocation for RCC, it is important to detect the translocation and understand the mechanism underlying the development of multifocal ccRCC.

CASE REPORT

A 67-year-old female patient diagnosed with multifocal RCC underwent robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) for three kidney tumors. A cancer gene panel test using next generation sequencing (NGS) detected differential VHL mutations (c.533T>G; p.L178R, c.465_466insTA; p.T157Ifs*3, c.343C>A; p.H115N), while VHL mutation was not detected in peripheral blood DNA. A tendency toward copy number loss of genes on der(3) was also detected in all tumors, but not in the germline one. A karyotype analysis revealed a germline translocation between 3 and 6, t(3;6)(q12;q14).

CONCLUSION

Chromosome 3 translocation and loss of derivative chromosome containing 3p and subsequent somatic differential VHL mutations in this case strongly support the previously proposed three-step model to explain the development of familial conventional ccRCC.

Games and genes: human diversity meets cytogenetics-Mexico 1968

The 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico included innovative practices and technological knowledge of human biology. The first time that cytogenetic techniques had been applied to athletes was in the 1966 European Athletics Championship in Budapest and used on Olympic athletes for the first time in Mexico in 1968. The Genetics and Human Biology Program (Programa de Genética y Biología Humanas, PGBH) was created for this purpose in 1966 in close collaboration with the Local Organizing Committee (Comité Organizador, CO), by Mexican geneticists Alfonso León de Garay and Rodolfo Félix Estrada who led the project. The main objective was to study the genetic and anthropological components which determine an Olympic athlete's abilities. This investigation studied 1,265 game participants and included family studies, cytological analyses, research on single genes, and the study of sex determination. In terms of influence beyond Mexico, this Program was significant as a site of transnational collaboration. It mobilized cognitive and financial resources, scientific practices, and material culture to set up a clinical laboratory in the Olympic Village. The Program also hosted three international seminars in Mexico City, two before the games, to calibrate clinical trials and anthropological tests. One in 1969 to analyze the results and proceed to their publication in 1974. This manuscript will focus on the PGBH to show how its work fits in the larger tapestry of post-1945 human biological studies. Also, to explore how the Olympic athlete populations studied can be considered laboratories of knowledge production or sites of cognition conceived as specific entities for scientific inquiry, standardization of medical practices, and the production or application of medicines. Finally, through the narrative of the different trajectories and collaborations of the leaders of the PGBH, this manuscript will show how contact between their scientific practices brought cytogenetics and sports together.

Karyotypes of Manatees: New Insights into Hybrid Formation (Trichechus inunguis × Trichechus m. manatus) in the Amazon Estuary

Great efforts have been made to preserve manatees. Recently, a hybrid zone was described between Trichechus inunguis (TIN) and the Trichechus manatus manatus (TMM) in the Amazon estuary. Cytogenetic data on these sirenians are limited, despite being fundamental to understanding the hybridization/introgression dynamics and genomic organization in Trichechus. We analyzed the karyotype of TMM, TIN, and two hybrid specimens ("Poque" and "Vitor") by classical and molecular cytogenetics. G-band analysis revealed that TMM (2n = 48) and TIN (2n = 56) diverge by at least six Robertsonian translocations and a pericentric inversion. Hybrids had 2n = 50, however, with Autosomal Fundamental Number (FNA) = 88 in "Poque" and FNA = 74 in "Vitor", and chromosomal distinct pairs in heterozygous; additionally, "Vitor" exhibited heteromorphisms and chromosomes whose pairs could not be determined. The U2 snDNA and Histone H3 multi genes are distributed in small clusters along TIN and TMM chromosomes and have transposable Keno and Helitron elements (TEs) in their sequences. The different karyotypes observed among manatee hybrids may indicate that they represent different generations formed by crossing between fertile hybrids and TIN. On the other hand, it is also possible that all hybrids recorded represent F1 and the observed karyotype differences must result from mechanisms of elimination.

Karyotypical Confirmation of Natural Hybridization between Two Manatee Species, Trichechus manatus and Trichechus inunguis

Two species of manatees are found in Northern Brazil—the Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus), which is found along the coast from Florida to Northeastern Brazil, and the Amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis), endemic to the Amazon drainage basin. These species show a sympatric distribution in the region of the Marajó Archipelago, an estuarine area surrounding the Amazon River mouth. There is evidence of the occurrence of interspecific hybrids in this area, based on mitochondrial DNA analyses, although the use of nuclear markers has not corroborated this proposal. Considering that these species show very distinct karyotypes, despite being closely related (2n = 48 in T. manatus and 2n = 56 in T. inunguis), hybrids would present distinct chromosome numbers. Based on this, we conducted cytogenetic analyses using classic and molecular techniques in three calves found stranded in the Marajó Island and Amapá coast. The results showed that one of them, morphologically classified as T. inunguis, presented the correspondent karyotype, with 2n = 56. However, the other two, which were phenotypically similar to T. manatus, showed 2n = 49. Despite the same diploid number, their G-banding patterns revealed some differences. The results of the distribution of some microsatellite sequences have also confirmed the heterozygosity of some chromosomal pairs in these two individuals. These results are the first indubitable confirmation of the occurrence of natural hybrids between T. manatus and T. inunguis, and also brings about some issues concerning the viability of hybrids, considering that these two individuals do not correspond to an F1 hybrid, but instead, both presented a possible F2 karyotype.

Ameliorative role of naringenin against lead-induced genetic damage and oxidative stress in cultured human lymphocytes

Lead (Pb) is a ubiquitous toxic heavy metal that is known to induce damage to major macromolecules (lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids) by enhancing the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Naringenin, a predominant flavonoid primarily found in citrus fruits has attained increasing attention due to its various pharmacological properties. Thus, the present investigation aimed to explore the ameliorative role of naringenin against Pb-induced toxicity in human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) under in vitro conditions. For this purpose, PBLs were exposed to Pb (350 µg/ml) alone as well in combination with naringenin (10 and 30 µg/ml). Sister chromatid exchange (SCE) and alkaline comet assay were used as genotoxic indices to evaluate the genotoxic and antigenotoxic activity of Pb and naringenin, respectively. Lipid peroxidation (LPO), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and reduced glutathione (GSH) assays were used as oxidative damage markers. The results revealed that Pb induced a significant (p < 0.05) increase in genetic and oxidative damage as compared with the untreated sample whereas the treatment of cells along with naringenin (10 and 30 µg/ml) and Pb (350 µg/ml) caused a significant reduction in genetic damage and elevation in SOD, GPx, and CAT activities and GSH level, accompanied by a significant reduction in LPO level as compared with Pb alone treated sample. So, the present investigation revealed that naringenin might be used as a protective agent against Pb-induced toxicity due to its antigenotoxic and antioxidative properties.

Chronic human exposure to ionizing radiation: Individual variability of chromosomal aberration frequencies and G0 radiosensitivities

Bio-monitoring of human radiation exposure is based, as a rule, on a single analysis of chromosomal aberrations. Factors such as radiosensitivity, adaptation, and the stability of cytogenetic indices are not taken into account. We studied frequency of chromosome aberrations (FCA) and G₀ chromosome radiosensitivity following in vitro γ-exposure, over a 2.5-year period, for 129 residents of the Dolon settlement, part of the extreme radiation risk zone, Semipalatinsk nuclear test site region, Kazakhstan. Radiosensitivity was evaluated on the basis of FCA and dose assessment by physical dosimetry. FCA was 3-fold higher in Dolon inhabitants as in the control group (p ≤ 0.01). The average coefficient of variability of spontaneous FCA was 31 %. In 20 % of the subjects, it was very high (50-70 %). Individual dose estimation in a single study in such individuals may lead to significant errors. Individual G₀-chromosomal radiosensitivity showed less variation (18.7 %). Chronic low-dose irradiation was an adaptive factor to the damaging dose (1 Gy). Three methods of individual radiosensitivity assessment were considered, based on: G₀-chromosomal radiosensitivity under additional in vitro γ-radiation; FCA and average dose per year; FCA and total dose received during years of residence in a radiocontaminated settlement, according to physical dosimetry. There is a significant difference in response (FCA) between radiosensitive and radioresistant individuals. This should be taken into account in individual dosimetry and risk assessment of radiation exposure.

A rare chromosomal polymorphism in a Kangayam bull (Bosindicus) of south India

A chromosomal polymorphism was detected on karyological screening of Kangayam breeding sires prior to subjecting them for frozen semen collection. One bull possessed the chromosomal complement 2n = 60, consisting of 58 acrocentric autosomes, one large sub-metacentric X-chromosome, and one small acrocentric Y-chromosome with a small visible p-arm, which was further confirmed using CBG- and GTG-banding. This polymorphism was attributed to a heterochromatin variation of the acrocentric Y-chromosome routine in the Bosindicus Linnaeus, 1758 cattle.

Transmission Jeopardy of Adenomatosis Polyposis Coli and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the globally prevalent and virulent types of cancer with a distinct alteration in chromosomes. Often, any alterations in the adenomatosis polyposis coli (APC), a tumor suppressor gene, and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene are related to surmise colorectal cancer significantly. In this study, we have investigated chromosomal and gene variants to discern a new-fangled gene and its expression in the southern populations of India by primarily spotting the screened APC and MTHFR variants in CRC patients. An equal number of CRC patients and healthy control subjects (n = 65) were evaluated to observe a chromosomal alteration in the concerted and singular manner for APC and MTHFR genotypes using standard protocols. The increasing prognosis was observed in persons with higher alcoholism and smoking (P < 0.05) with frequent alterations in chromosomes 1, 5, 12, 13, 15, 17, 18, 21, and 22. The APC Asp 1822Val and MTHFR C677T genotypes provided significant results, while the variant alleles of this polymorphism were linked with an elevated risk of CRC. Chromosomal alterations can be the major cause in inducing carcinogenic outcomes in CRCs and can drive to extreme pathological states.

A Case-Control Study on Chromosomal Anomalies in Parents Experiencing Repeated Spontaneous Abortions From Northern India

Objectives

Many women lose their fetuses through miscarriage due to a variety of causes. The incidence of three or more consecutive pregnancy losses is often classified as repeated spontaneous abortion (RSA) and is considered the most frustrating and complex area in reproductive medicine. Parental chromosomal abnormalities, underlying medical condition, heritable or acquired thrombophilias, immunologic abnormalities, infections, and environmental factors are reported to be possible etiologies responsible for RSA. Gametes with unbalanced chromosomes, which are formed when abnormalities exist in parent chromosomes, are one such cause and are responsible for about 50-60% of first-trimester pregnancy loss. This paper aims to identify whether there is an association between chromosomal anomalies in parents and RSA.

Method

A case-control study was performed on a total sample size of 600 individuals, including 150 couples with a history of RSA and 150 fertile couples as control. The participants were cytogenetically analyzed using G-banding. Associations between variables were tested using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact test (a p-value<0.05 was considered significant). Informed consent from participants and institutional ethical clearance was obtained before the research began.

Results

Chromosomal anomalies were detected in 21 individuals (7%) with a history of RSA. Female preponderance was observed with a female to male ratio of 2.5:1. Structural chromosomal aberrations (SCAs) were detected in 17 patients, with nine (53%) cases showing balanced reciprocal translocation (involving chromosomes 1,3,6,8,12,13,15,16,18,22 and X) and three (17.65%) cases of Robertsonian translocation (exclusively in males). Mosaicism was observed in four (19.05%) cases. A statistically significant positive association (p-value <0.05) was observed between the presence of parental chromosomal anomalies and RSA.

Conclusion

These results support an association between RSA and parental chromosomal abnormalities. Currently, clinicians treating cases of RSA face challenging clinical conditions. Identifying a cytogenetic cause for RSA may be of great help to clinicians who manage affected couples.

CYTOGENETIC INDICATORS OF ACUTE RADIATION SICKNESS (THE CHORNOBYL EXPERIENCE)

The objective of the study was to improve the biological dosimetry approach among patients with acute radiationsickness of various degrees based on the analysis of radiation-induced chromosome aberrations in peripheral bloodlymphocytes of the victims.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was based on primary cytogenetic data obtained in May 1986 within examina-tion of the 30 clean-up workers («liquidators») having got stage I-III acute radiation sickness. Dose verificationwas performed using the cytogenetic dosimetry based on a culture of peripheral blood lymphocytes with metaphaseanalysis of chromosome aberrations.

RESULTS

A new method of evaluating the results of patients' cytogenetic examination at the beginning of specifictherapy has been developed. Procedure was performed using a model of multiple linear regression (complex of cyto-genetic parameters) and provided a satisfactory diagnostic level (featuring a compliance with initially definedclinical and laboratory diagnoses). Overall frequency of the aberrant cells and radiation markers increased in high-er disease stages. There was a trend of the frequency growth of chromatid-type aberrations with increasing of radi-ation burden. Adequacy of the proposed method based on the regression analysis of cytogenetic results was con-firmed through the preservation of group differences in estimates of disease stage in subjects with verified diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Cytogenetic dosimetry in the scope of examination of persons exposed to ionizing radiation is an oblig-atory component of radiation sickness stage verification. The recommended method of cytogenetic data evaluationbefore and at the beginning of detoxification therapy provides a satisfactory level of diagnostics.

Validation of exposure indexes to pesticides through the analysis of exposure and effect biomarkers in ground pesticide applicators from Argentina

The characterization of the population exposed to pesticides and the use of effective biomarkers to evaluate potential health effects are determinant to identify vulnerable groups, understanding the causality of diverse pathologies and propose prevention policies. This is particularly important in countries where intensive agricultural practices had an explosive expansion in last decades. The aim of this study was assessing the usefulness of two exposure indexes questionnaire-based: Intensity Level of the pesticide Exposure (ILE) and Cumulative Exposure Index (CEI) and their scales, in terrestrial applicators of pesticide from the Province of Córdoba (Argentina). The analysis was performed contrasting ILE and CEI results with perceived symptomatology, in addition to effect and exposure biomarkers. A cross-sectional study was designed to compare pesticides body burdens and effect biomarkers between subjects occupationally (OE) and non-occupationally exposed (NOE) to pesticides. Prevalence of perceived symptomatology and genotoxicity damage was higher in the OE group. The exposure condition was the only variable explaining these differences. Significant associations were found between CEI and neurologic symptomatology (p < 0.05) and between ILE and plasmatic cholinesterase (p < 0.1). However, residues of HCB, β-HCH, α-endosulfan, pp'DDE, endrin, β-endosulfan, pp'DDT, endosulfan sulfate and mirex were found in blood samples from both groups. To our knowledge, this is the first report on pesticides body burdens in occupational exposure settings in Argentina. So far, our current results indicate that the occupational condition affects the health of the workers. Significant associations found between symptomatology and biomarkers with scales of CEI and ILE suggest their usefulness to verify different levels of exposure. Further research is necessary to propose these indexes as an affordable tool for occupational health surveillance in areas with difficult access to health care centres.

Assessment of the genotoxic potential of tetrachlorvinphos insecticide by cytokinesis-block micronucleus and sister chromatid exchange assays

Tetrachlorvinphos is an organophosphate that is classified as a carcinogen in humans by several authorities. Due to very limited data regarding the genotoxic potential, we aimed to comprehensively investigate in vitro genotoxic potential of tetrachlorvinphos. We performed our study by applying the cytokinesis-block micronucleus cytome and sister chromatid exchange (SCE) assays to human peripheral blood lymphocytes. We evaluated micronucleus (MN) and SCE frequencies and cytokinesis-block proliferation index in both exposed and non-exposed lymphocytes. We also calculated the chromosomal instability level in response to exposure by combining the results of MN and SCE. We found that MN frequency did not increase with exposure to tetrachlorvinphos (0-50 µg/ml). In contrast, we observed that SCE frequencies significantly increased with exposure to ≥5 µg/ml tetrachlorvinphos. Furthermore, exposure to tetrachlorvinphos at concentrations of 50 µg/ml induced a significant increase in chromosomal instability level (p < 0.05). Cytokinesis-block proliferation index level did not significantly decrease in response to tetrachlorvinphos exposure. Our findings reveal that tetrachlorvinphos resulted in different DNA damages that were measured by two assays. Furthermore, our findings suggested that exposure to tetrachlorvinphos increased chromosomal instability that is a hallmark of many malignancies. We conclude that although tetrachlorvinphos does not significantly increase the MN level, the significant increase of both SCE and CIN frequencies indicates the genotoxic potential of tetrachlorvinphos in human peripheral lymphocytes. Additionally, tetrachlorvinphos is not cytotoxic in the range of tested concentrations.

Effects of combined exposure to modeled radiation and gravitation factors of the interplanetary flight: Monkeys' cognitive functions and the content of monoamines and their metabolites; cytogenetic changes in peripheral blood lymphocytes

In a study on primates (Macaca mulatta), neurobiological and radiobiological effects have been studied of the synchronous combined action of 7-day antiorthostatic hypokinesia and exposure of the monkeys' head first to γ-rays during 24 h and then to accelerated ¹²C ions. The neurobiological effects were evaluated by the cognitive functions which model the basic elements of operator activity and the concentration of monoamines and their metabolites in peripheral blood. The radiobiological effects were evaluated by the chromosomal aberration and DNA double-strand break (DSB) yield in peripheral blood lymphocytes. The results of the cognitive function research show that the typological features of the animals' higher nervous activity are the prevailing factor that determines changes in these functions. The monkey of the strong balanced type effectively retained its cognitive functions after the exposures, while in the weak unbalanced type animals these functions were impaired. These changes went along with a decrease in the concentration of monoamines and their metabolites and an increase in the DNA DSB and chromosomal aberration yield in lymphocytes.

Andrological and cytogenetic investigations of an infertile Przewalski's stallion

The case of an 8-year-old, sexually active but infertile Przewalski's stallion (Equus ferus przewalskii) was studied. Besides the infertility, the stallion also showed permanent problems with its body condition, being obviously weaker than all the other group members. The horse was kept in a separate place for two years with 12 mares in its harem group (six mares had foals earlier); however, none of the mares covered got pregnant. Andrological and cytogenetic investigations revealed underdeveloped testes, arrested spermatogenesis, azoospermia, and XY/XXY/X0 mosaicism. We classify the case as a mosaic Klinefelter syndrome, the first reported case in Przewalski's horse.

Categorizing the characteristics of human carcinogens: a need for specificity

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has recently proposed employing "ten key characteristics of human carcinogens" (TKCs) to determine the potential of agents for harmful effects. The TKCs seem likely to confuse the unsatisfactory correlation from testing regimes that have ignored the differences evident when cellular changes are compared in short and long-lived species, with their very different stem cell and somatic cell phylogenies. The proposed characteristics are so broad that their use will lead to an increase in the current unacceptably high rate of false positives. It could be an informative experiment to take well-established approved therapeutics with well-known human safety profiles and test them against this new TKC paradigm. Cancers are initiated and driven by heritable and transient changes in gene expression, expand clonally, and progress via additional associated acquired mutations and epigenetic alterations that provide cells with an evolutionary advantage. The genotoxicity testing protocols currently employed and required by regulation, emphasize testing for the mutational potential of the test agent. Two-year, chronic rodent cancer bioassays are intended to test for the entire spectrum of carcinogenic transformation. The use of cytotoxic doses causing increased, sustained cell proliferation that facilitates accumulated genetic damage leads to a high false-positive rate of tumor induction. Current cancer hazard assessment protocols and weight-of-the-evidence analysis of agent-specific cancer risk align poorly with the pathogenesis of human carcinoma and so need modernization and improvement in ways suggested here.

Study of the Chromosomal Abnormalities and Associated Complex Karyotypes in Hematological Cancer in the Population of West Bengal: A Prospective Observational Study

Introduction Chromosomal instability is an important feature of hematological cancer. The pathogenesis is complex and it involves genetic and epigenetic factors. As a genetic factor, chromosomal instability may play a key role in leukemogenesis. Accumulation of genetic alteration is mainly responsible for numerical and structural chromosomal rearrangement or clonal evaluation. But disease progression is often driven by chromosomal translocation, hyper- or hypodiploidy with structural abnormalities, and complex karyotypes.

Objective This research aimed to study the different types of chromosomal abnormalities in clinically suspected hematological cancer patients.

Materials and Methods Cytogenetic analysis was performed based on phytohemaglutinin stimulated peripheral blood lymphocyte cultures and bone marrow culture, without mitogen, of the respective patients of West Bengal from March 2016 to February 2018. All clinically suspected hematological cancer patients referred for karyotyping to the institutional genetics department have been included without any biasness of sex and age. Karyotypes were described according to the International System for Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN 2005).

Results In the present study, 56 clinically suspected hematological cancer cases were observed and 41 cases of chromosomal rearrangement were found which clearly show chromosomal instability as the main driving force for hematological cancer transformation. Presence of variant Philadelphia chromosomes with classical translocation, mosaic complex karyotypes, variable numerical, and structural chromosomal abnormality, along with severe-to-moderate hypo- and hyperdiploidy, and presence of marker chromosomes were the main findings of this study.

Conclusion The result shows that the detection of chromosomal instability was important for preliminary diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and further management. So the present study provided additional information about chromosomal instability in hematological cancer at Kolkata and adjoining regions.

Human cytogenetics at Johns Hopkins Hospital, 1959-1962

An account is given of the introduction of human cytogenetics to the Division of Medical Genetics at Johns Hopkins Hospital, and the first 3 years' work of the chromosome diagnostic laboratory that was established at the time. Research on human sex chromosome disorders, including novel discoveries in the Turner and Klinefelter syndromes, is described together with original observations on chromosome behavior at mitosis. It is written in celebration of the centenary of the birth of Victor McKusick, the acknowledged father of Medical Genetics, who established the Division and had the foresight to ensure that it included the investigation of human chromosomes.

Xeno-Free Human Wharton's Jelly Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Maintain Their Characteristic Properties after Long-Term Cryopreservation

Objective

The past decade has witnessed a rapid growth in harnessing the potential of adult stem cells for regenerative medicine. An investigational new drug (IND) or a regenerative medicine advanced therapy (RMAT) product must fulfil many requirements, such as stability studies, after cryopreservation. Such studies are important to ascertain the utility of off-the-shelf allogeneic cells for clinical applications. The present work describes a complete characterisation of xeno- free human Wharton’s Jelly mesenchymal stromal cells (hWJ-MSCs) before and up to 28 months post-cryopreservation.

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, culture methods that involved plasma derived human serum and recombinant trypsin were used to develop clinical grade cells. Complete cell characterisation involved flow cytometry studies for viability, positive and negative markers, colony forming unit (CFU) potential, population doubling time (PDT), soft agar assay to evaluate in vitro tumourigenicity, karyotype analysis and differentiation studies which were performed before and at 6, 12, 18 and 28 months post-cryopreservation.

Results

Our data showed consistency in the flow cytometry, CFU assay, PDT, soft agar assay, karyotyping and differentiation studies.

Conclusion

Using our protocols for extended xeno-free culture and cryopreservation of hWJ-MSCs, we could establish the shelf life of the cell-based product for up to 28 months.

Ecological risk assessment and long-term environmental pollution caused by obsolete undisposed organochlorine pesticides

Obsolete organochlorine pesticides (OSPs) are currently prohibited as persistent organic pollutants that contaminate the environment. If undisposed, they continue to pollute soil and water, to accumulate in the food chain and to harm plants, animals and the human body. The aim of the study was to assess water and soil pollution around the storehouses of undisposed, banned OSPs and their possible genotoxic effect. The storehouses in four villages near Almaty, Kazakhstan were investigated. Chemical analysis confirmed contamination of water and soil around storehouses with OSPs. The genotoxic effect of water and soil samples was evaluated using model objects: S.typhymurium, D.melanogaster, sheep lymphocytes cultures and human lymphocytes cultures. It was found that water and soil samples caused mutagenic effect in all model systems. They increased the frequency of revertants in Salmonella, the frequency of lethal mutations in Drosophila chromosomes, and the frequency of chromosome aberrations in cultures of human and sheep lymphocytes. Although a genotoxic effect was demonstrated for each of these models, various models showed different sensitivity to the effects of pesticides and they varied degree of response. The association between the total content of OCPs in soil and the level of mutations for different model systems was discovered.

Classical, Molecular, and Genomic Cytogenetics of the Pig, a Clinical Perspective

The chromosomes of the domestic pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) are known to be prone to reciprocal chromosome translocations and other balanced chromosome rearrangements with concomitant fertility impairment of carriers. In response to the remarkable prevalence of chromosome rearrangements in swine herds, clinical cytogenetics laboratories have been established in several countries in order to screen young boars for chromosome rearrangements prior to service. At present, clinical cytogenetics laboratories typically apply classical cytogenetics techniques such as giemsa-trypsin (GTG)-banding to produce high-quality karyotypes and reveal large-scale chromosome ectopic exchanges. Further refinements to clinical cytogenetics practices have led to the implementation of molecular cytogenetics techniques such as fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH), allowing for rearrangements to be visualized and breakpoints refined using fluorescently labelled painting probes. The next-generation of clinical cytogenetics include the implementation of DNA microarrays, and next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies such as DNA sequencing to better explore tentative genome architecture changes. The implementation of these cytogenomics techniques allow the genomes of rearrangement carriers to be deciphered at the highest resolution, allowing rearrangements to be detected; breakpoints to be delineated; and, most importantly, potential gene implications of those chromosome rearrangements to be interrogated. Clinical cytogenetics has become an integral tool in the livestock industry, identifying rearrangements and allowing breeders to make informed breeding decisions.

Differential karyotype profiling of three popular breeds of dogs in India

The present investigation aims to study the karyology of the three most popular dog breeds as well as indigenous local dog. In this study, we identified the most popular dog breeds of the Punjab region which are maintained as companion animals, or for guarding. Metaphase plates were prepared after culturing of lymphocytes isolated from heparinized blood collected from the identified three most popular canine breeds. The isolated lymphocyte cells were cultured for 70-72 h following the cell cycle arrest at metaphase. The G-banding of the chromosomes was done by Giemsa staining through a standard protocol. The most popular three breeds of dog in the sub-tropical region were Labrador, the German Shepherd, and Pug. There were no significant distinguishable differences between the karyotypes of the dog breeds studied. This study gives insight into karyology information, which can be beneficial to the researchers, dog breeders, and kennel clubs. Moreover, it provides information about chromosomal abnormalities which may lead to the study of various fertility, growth, and phenotypic abnormalities problems in dog breeds.

Let Chromosomes Speak: The Cytogenetics Project at the Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission (ABCC)

Hibakusha (atomic bomb survivors) are "witnesses" of the atomic bombings, not just in a standard sense but also in the instrumental sense. For medical and scientific experts, hibakusha are biological resources of unparalleled scientific value. Over the past seventy years, the hibakusha bodies have narrated what it means to be exposed to radiation. In this paper, I explore studies at the Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission (ABCC) that examined hibakusha bodies as sites where risk could be read. I focus on a period from the mid-1950s to 1975, during which new methods, practices, and technologies allowed ABCC scientists to investigate chromosomes as a way to study radiation exposure and human risk. By focusing on chromosomal aberrations, ABCC scientists connected their work directly to the emerging infrastructure for radiobiology at the time. ABCC administrators actively sought out such prestige, especially given their relationship with the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC). The shift in approach would also alleviate some public relations problems with which the institution was struggling. Launching a cytogenetics program required some older practices that had assumed American privilege and dominance to be abandoned. Eventually, the decision to let chromosomes speak of radiation exposure brought about fundamental changes in ABCC, which came to symbolize the model for future studies at the organization, especially as ABCC was transitioning to a US-Japan binational organization. More broadly, this case highlights the intricate scientific negotiation of radiation risk where uncertainties necessarily prevail.

Horse Clinical Cytogenetics: Recurrent Themes and Novel Findings

Clinical cytogenetic studies in horses have been ongoing for over half a century and clearly demonstrate that chromosomal disorders are among the most common non-infectious causes of decreased fertility, infertility, and congenital defects. Large-scale cytogenetic surveys show that almost 30% of horses with reproductive or developmental problems have chromosome aberrations, whereas abnormal karyotypes are found in only 2-5% of the general population. Among the many chromosome abnormalities reported in the horse, most are unique or rare. However, all surveys agree that there are two recurrent conditions: X-monosomy and SRY-negative XY male-to-female sex reversal, making up approximately 35% and 11% of all chromosome abnormalities, respectively. The two are signature conditions for the horse and rare or absent in other domestic species. The progress in equine genomics and the development of molecular tools, have qualitatively improved clinical cytogenetics today, allowing for refined characterization of aberrations and understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms. While cutting-edge genomics tools promise further improvements in chromosome analysis, they will not entirely replace traditional cytogenetics, which still is the most straightforward, cost-effective, and fastest approach for the initial evaluation of potential breeding animals and horses with reproductive or developmental disorders.

Evaluation of Y chromosome microdeletions and chromosomal anomalies in infertile men

OBJECTIVES

Chromosome anomalies and Y chromosome microdeletions are one of the reasons that can be seen in infertile patients and affect fertility. In this study, it was aimed to determine the frequencies of chromosomal anomalies and Y chromosome microdeletions in primary infertile male patients.

METHODS

We included 374 patients with primary infertility in this study. Cytogenetic analysis was performed with the GTG banding technique by using trypsin and Giemsa stain. Y microdeletion analysis was studied by multiplex polymerase chain reaction using 28 Y chromosome-specific sequence-tagged sites.

RESULTS

Chromosomal irregularities were detected in 27 (7.22%) of infertile cases. It was observed that 7 (25.92%) of chromosomal irregularities detected in cases were in autosomal and 20 (%74.08) were in gonosomal chromosomes. The incidence of Y chromosome microdeletion was 1.07% (4/374) and the microdeletions were observed in AZFb, AZFc and AZFd regions. AZFc + AZFd deletion was detected in three patients (0.81%) and AZFb + AZFc + AZFd deletion in one patient (0.26%).

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, gonosomal chromosome irregularity was higher than autosomal chromosome irregularity in infertile men. The frequency of Y microdeletion has different rates according to some factors such as ethnic differences of patients, patient selection criteria, differences in the number of cases, and methodological aspects.

Tandem Repeat-Based Probes Support the Loop Model of Pericentromere Packing

Constitutive heterochromatin is the most mysterious part of the eukaryotic genome. It forms vital chromosome regions such as the centromeric and the pericentromeric ones. The main component of heterochromatic regions are tandem repeats (TR), and their specific organization complicates assembly, annotation, and mapping of these regions. Unannotated and unmapped TR arrays are still present in database contigs. In this study, we used a set of TR in the genomes of the pig (Sus scrofa) and the Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus) identified with the help of bioinformatics techniques and determined the specificity of the designed probes. The signal of the 4 pig TR probes in spermatogenic cells was often ring-shaped, especially in primary spermatocytes. The rings were located in the regions relatively weakly stained with DAPI. The unique assembly of the centromeric region was traced using the hamster meiotic chromosomes. The probe specific to chromosome 5 was used. Two signals, arranged as rings, were seen at the pachytene stage, similar to those in the pig spermatogenic cells. In the spermatogenic cells of both pig and hamster, the rings appeared on the chromosomes with pericentromeric TR probes. Our observations support the loop model of the centromeric region, the size of the loops being about 50 kb.

Looking for genetic effects of polluted anthropized environments on Caiman crocodilus crocodilus (Reptilia, Crocodylia): A comparative genotoxic and chromosomal analysis

The Amazon aquatic ecosystems have been modified by the human population growth, going through changes in their water bodies and aquatic biota. The spectacled alligator (Caiman crocodilus crocodilus) has a wide distribution and adaptability to several environments, even those polluted ones. This study aimed to investigate if a Caiman species living in urban streams of Manaus city (Amazonas State, Brazil) is affected by environmental pollution. For that, it was used classical and molecular cytogenetic procedures, in addition to micronucleus and comet assays. Although the karyotype macrostructure remains unaltered (2 n = 42 chromosomes; 24 t + 18 m/sm; NF = 60), the genotoxic analysis and the cytogenetic mapping of repetitive DNA sequences demonstrated that polluted environments alter the genome of the specimens, affecting both the chromosomal organization and the genetic material.

Genetic analysis of an insular population of Sapajus nigritus (Primates: Cebidae) in Rio de Janeiro state, Brazil

The black-horned capuchin (Sapajus nigritus) is a neotropical primate with wide distribution from southeastern Brazil to northeastern Argentina. Although this species has been described with coat pattern variation, even with intrapopulational differences, and characterized as having the greatest genetic diversity among Sapajus species, there are still few studies on natural populations that contribute to the knowledge of this intraspecific variability. We examined individuals from an as yet unstudied population of Ilha da Marambaia, Rio de Janeiro (RJ) state, Brazil, compared with published data for S. nigritus. We sought to confirm the species through phenotypic and genetic characterization using C-banding and fluorescence in situ hybridization with #11qHe+/21WCP probes for chromosomal constitutive heterochromatin (He+) patterns, and cytochrome c oxidase I and II gene sequences for phylogenetic analysis. The coat presented two color patterns, varying from brown to blackish on the body, yellow to brown on the chest, and white to yellow on the face, besides the presence and shape of the tufts on the head, corresponding to S. nigritus. He+ was identified in pairs 4, 12, 13 and 17, and less consistently in pairs 6, 19 and 21, already described for this species. While most Sapajus species have a large He+ block, here pair 11 was identified without extracentromeric He+, the same as reported for S. nigritus from Argentina. Molecular analysis showed divergence of this population from other S. nigritus sequences, reinforcing a trend already demonstrated when samples from RJ are compared with the rest of the distribution, which may represent an evolutionary deviation.