CC chemokine receptor-3 as new target for age-related macular degeneration

CCR1 mediates Müller cell activation and photoreceptor cell death in macular and retinal degeneration

Mononuclear cells are involved in the pathogenesis of retinal diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Here, we examined the mechanisms that underlie macrophage-driven retinal cell death. Monocytes were extracted from patients with AMD and differentiated into macrophages (hMdɸs), which were characterized based on proteomics, gene expression, and ex vivo and in vivo properties. Using bioinformatics, we identified the signaling pathway involved in macrophage-driven retinal cell death, and we assessed the therapeutic potential of targeting this pathway. We found that M2a hMdɸs were associated with retinal cell death in retinal explants and following adoptive transfer in a photic injury model. Moreover, M2a hMdɸs express several CCRI (C-C chemokine receptor type 1) ligands. Importantly, CCR1 was upregulated in Müller cells in models of retinal injury and aging, and CCR1 expression was correlated with retinal damage. Lastly, inhibiting CCR1 reduced photic-induced retinal damage, photoreceptor cell apoptosis, and retinal inflammation. These data suggest that hMdɸs, CCR1, and Müller cells work together to drive retinal and macular degeneration, suggesting that CCR1 may serve as a target for treating these sight-threatening conditions.

Genotyping of Clinical Parameters in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Modulated anti-VEGF therapy under the influence of lipid metabolizing proteins in Age related macular degeneration: a pilot study

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a devastating retinal disease that results in irreversible vision loss in the aged population. The complex genetic nature and degree of genetic penetrance require a redefinition of the current therapeutic strategy for AMD. We aimed to investigate the role of modifiers for current anti-VEGF therapy especially for non-responder AMD patients. We recruited 78 wet AMD cases (out of 278 AMD patients) with their socio-demographic and treatment regimen. Serum protein levels were estimated by ELISA in AMD patients. Data pertaining to the number of anti-VEGF injections given (in 1 year) along with clinical images (FFA and OCT) of AMD patients were also included. Visual acuity data (logMAR) for 46 wet AMD cases out of a total of 78 patients were also retrieved to examine the response of anti-VEGF injections in wet AMD cases. Lipid metabolizing genes (LIPC and APOE) have been identified as chief biomarkers for anti-VEGF response in AMD patients. Both genotypes 'CC' and 'GC' of LIPC have found to be associated with a number of anti-VEGF injections in AMD patients which could influence the expression of B3GALTL,HTRA1, IER3, LIPC and SLC16A8 proteins in patients bearing both genotypes as compared to reference genotype. Elevated levels of APOE were also observed in group 2 wet AMD patients as compared to group 1 suggesting the significance of APOE levels in anti-VEGF response. The genotype of B3GALTL has also been shown to have a significant association with the number of anti-VEGF injections. Moreover, visual acuity of group 1 (≤ 4 anti-VEGF injections/year) AMD patients was found significantly improved after 3 doses of anti-VEGF injections and maintained longitudinally as compared to groups 2 and 3. Lipid metabolising genes may impact the outcome of anti-VEGF AMD treatment.

Integrative Approach to COVID-19: An Indian Facebook Recipe for Mental Health

The COVID-19 pandemic has given the world a big blow and has forced the entire world to develop a new thought process. To cope with the stress of lockdown, it was important for people to indulge in educational and health activities to save them from the threats being caused by the news and social media. A Facebook page named Yoga scholars Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) was created where three sessions were held per day for 225 days regularly. This activity resulted in people adopting an integrative approach towards alternative medicine. This also made possible a trial of Ashwagandha for COVID-19 treatment by the Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) ministry.

Effect of Retinal Injury Induced by Laser Photocoagulation on Visuospatial Memory in Mouse Model

Visual pathway reveals the connection between neuronal activity of the brain and eye. The neural networks of brain amplify the retinal signals resulting in the formation of visual image. The laser injury in the retina may affect the visual pathway and may lead to disruption of neuronal signals/activity. Therefore, we aimed to study the effect of retinal injury induced by laser on cognitive abilities in laser-induced mouse model. We have established laser model to understand the relation between retina and brain by disrupting retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) layer and evaluate the effect of laser-induced retinal injury on visuospatial memory. Age- and sex-matched C57BL/6J male mice were taken for conducting the experiments. The laser model was established by using laser photocoagulator to disrupt the RPE layer of the retina. After defined irradiation of laser onto mouse retina, the fundus fluorescein angiography was performed to confirm the laser spots. The visuospatial and short-term memory was performed using neurobehavioral test, that is, Morris water maze (MWM), and passive avoidance, respectively. In MWM experiment, results showed that escape latency time, which was taken by healthy and laser-injured mice was comparable. This was further validated by another neurobehavioral analysis, that is, passive avoidance that showed nonsignificant difference between these two groups using independent t -test. Visuospatial memory may not be affected by retinal injury induced by laser photocoagulation. It may depend on the power of the laser and duration of the laser. The severe injury in the retina such as optic nerve damage may cause dysfunctioning of visual pathway.

Sleeping pattern and activities of daily living modulate protein expression in AMD

Degeneration of macular photoreceptors is a prominent characteristic of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) which leads to devastating and irreversible vision loss in the elderly population. In this exploratory study, the contribution of environmental factors on the progression of AMD pathology by probing the expression of candidate proteins was analyzed. Four hundred and sixty four participants were recruited in the study comprising of AMD (n = 277) and controls (n = 187). Genetics related data was analyzed to demonstrate the activities of daily living (ADL) by using regression analysis and statistical modeling, including contrast estimate, multinomial regression analysis in AMD progression. Regression analysis revealed contribution of smoking, alcohol, and sleeping hours on AMD by altered expression of IER-3, HTRA1, B3GALTL, LIPC and TIMP3 as compared to normal levels. Contrast estimate supports the gender polarization phenomenon in AMD by significant decreased expression of SLC16A8 and LIPC in control population which was found to be unaltered in AMD patients. The smoking, food habits and duration of night sleeping hours also contributed in AMD progression as evident from multinomial regression analysis. Predicted model (prediction estimate = 86.7%) also indicated the crucial role of night sleeping hours along with the decreased expression of TIMP-3, IER3 and SLC16A8. Results revealed an unambiguous role of environmental factors in AMD progression mediated by various regulatory proteins which might result in intermittent AMD phenotypes and possibly influence the outcome of anti-VEGF treatment.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) prediction model derived from plasma and CSF biomarkers

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a degenerative disorder of motor neurons which leads to complete loss of movement in patients. The only FDA approved drug Riluzole provides only symptomatic relief to patients. Early Diagnosis of the disease warrants the importance of diagnostic and prognostic models for predicting disease and disease progression respectively. In the present study we represent the predictive statistical model for ALS using plasma and CSF biomarkers. Forward stepwise (Binary likelihood) Logistic regression model is developed for prediction of ALS. The model has been shown to have excellent validity (94%) with good sensitivity (98%) and specificity (93%). The area under the ROC curve is 99.3%. Along with age and BMI, VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor), VEGFR2 (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2) and TDP43 (TAR DNA Binding Protein 43) in CSF and VEGFR2 and OPTN (Optineurin) in plasma are good predictors of ALS.

From Allergy to Cancer-Clinical Usefulness of Eotaxins

Simple Summary

Eotaxins are small proteins included in the group of chemokines. They act mainly on blood cells called eosinophils which are involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory processes. This connection leads to involvement of eotaxins in the pathogenesis of all inflammatory related diseases, such as allergic diseases and cancer. This paper summarizes the current knowledge about eotaxins, showing their usefulness as markers that can be used not only in the detection of these diseases, but also to determine the effectiveness of treatment.

Abstract

Eotaxins are proteins which belong to the group of cytokines. These small molecules are secreted by cells that are mainly involved in immune-mediated reactions in the course of allergic diseases. Eotaxins were discovered in 1994 and their main role was considered to be the selective recruitment of eosinophils. As those blood cells are involved in the course of all inflammatory diseases, including cancer, we decided to perform an extensive search of the literature pertaining to our investigation via the MEDLINE/PubMed database. On the basis of available literature, we can assume that eotaxins can be used as markers for the detection and determination of origin or type of allergic disease. Many publications also confirm that eotaxins can be used in the determination of allergic disease treatment. Moreover, there are also studies indicating a connection between eotaxins and cancer. Some researchers revealed that CCL11 (C-C motif chemokine ligand 11, eotaxin-1) concentrations differed between the control and tested groups indicating their possible usefulness in cancer detection. Furthermore, some papers showed usefulness of eotaxins in determining the treatment efficacy as markers of decreasing inflammation. Therefore, in this paper we present the current knowledge on eotaxins in the course of allergic and cancerous diseases.

Sleep Disorders in Individuals With High Risk for Diabetes in Indian Population

Background:

Sleep restores physiology and neurochemical components of our body and is essential for physical and mental health. Sleep disorders (SDs) are associated with insulin resistance and metabolic disorders. The association between SDs and diabetes needs to be understood in the Indian population.

Purpose:

The purpose was to investigate the association between SD and diabetes in the Indian population.

Methods:

As a part of nationwide Niyantrita Madhumeha Bharata Abhiyaan-2017 (NMB-2017), a cross-sectional study was conducted and data was collected from seven zones of India, after screening through the Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS). The sleep quality was assessed on a scale of 1 to 4 (very good = 1, very bad = 4). The time taken to fall asleep (sleep latency) was assessed on a scale of 0 to 5 (“0” = nil and “5” = >1.5 h). Stress was assessed by the perceived stress scale.

Results:

Bad sleep quality was positively (odds ratio 1.055, CI [1.001, 1.113], and P < .01) associated with self-reported known diabetes. Increased time taken to fall in sleep (sleep latency) was associated significantly with IDRS high risk (odds ratio 1.085, CI [1.008, 1.168], and P = .01), with an average sleep latency /time takes to fall in sleep (maximum range 5 [>1.5 h], mode 2 [10 to 30 min]) minutes. Moderate stress was significantly associated with bad sleep quality (odds ratio 1.659).

Conclusion:

A positive association of bad sleep quality and stress with diabetes, and an increased sleep latency in the IDRS high-risk population point to the role of modifiable risk factors. Behavioral modification and stress reduction by using yoga may be beneficial in the better management of diabetes.

Trends of Hypertension and Neurological Diseases in India: A Nationwide Survey Reporting the Distribution Across Geographical Areas

BACKGROUND

Hypertension has remained an imperative risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, increasing the national burden of premature deaths over the decades.

PURPOSE

There is limited data on the prevalence of hypertension and its distribution across all geographic regions in India. This nationwide survey was conducted in 2017 to assess the prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension among the Indian adults.

METHODS

A multilevel stratified cluster sampling technique, with a random selection among the urban and rural populations, was adopted to achieve a sample of 70,031 adults from 24 states and 4 union territories. Blood pressure was measured twice using automated oscillometric machines with a minimum of 3-min gap, and the average was recorded. This was later categorized into prehypertension (elevated blood pressure) and hypertension subgroups as defined by the new 2017 American Heart Association guidelines.

RESULTS

The prevalence of prehypertension and hypertension in our study population across all ages was found to be 18.2% and 24%, respectively. Prehypertension was common at a younger age, whereas the prevalence of hypertension was higher in the older age groups. The urban population (24.4%) and males (24.7%) were positively associated with prehypertension and hypertension. The western zone had the highest prevalence of hypertension, whereas the eastern population had the lowest.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed an alarmingly high prevalence of hypertension, accounting up to one hypertensive in every four adults in India. There is a need for more robust national strategies for identifying and treating hypertension to reduce the national and the global burden of hypertension by 25% before 2025.

What We Fail to See in Neuro-Genetic Diseases: A Bird's Eye View from the Developing World

Background

Progressive neurological genetic diseases are not rare. They cause psychosocial damages to its victims. This article focuses on common psychosocial issues faced by those from the developing world.

Methods

A multicentre observational survey of 246 patients from teaching hospitals in Sri Lanka. Participants were clinically and genetically confirmed by neurologists and the Interdisciplinary Centre for Innovation in Biotechnology and Neuroscience (ICIBN) respectively from 2014 to 2018. Convenience sample with random geographical distribution. Factors were equally weighted. ANOVA, Student's t-test and chi-square analysis were used. Statistical Software R Statistics-version 3.5 and one-sample t-test with CI = 95% was used. This study meets the ethical guidelines of the local institutional review boards which are in compliance with the Helsinki Declaration.

Results

Sample included 184 males and 62 females of 3-76 years with either Duchenne muscular dystrophy (n=121), spinocerebellar ataxia (n = 87) or Huntington disease (n = 38). Mean income of the affected is lower than the standard average monthly income (P ≤ .001). Consultation visits depend on the monthly income (CI 20421.074-34709.361; P ≤ .001).

Conclusion

Poverty is inversely proportionate to the patients' living conditions. As developing countries are financially challenged, it is a societal challenge to rebuild our values to enhance their living status.

Prevalence of Obesity in India and Its Neurological Implications: A Multifactor Analysis of a Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

India is undergoing a rapid epidemiological transition, from underweight to overweight/obese population. Obesity is a major risk factor in type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, and is also implicated as a factor in neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. A robust, pan-Indian estimate of obesity is not yet available.

PURPOSE

This study estimates the pan-Indian prevalence of obesity, stratified across nonmodifiable (age and gender) and modifiable (education and physical activity levels) factors, and across zones and urban/rural.

METHODOLOGY

Data for 1,00,531 adults from a nationwide randomized cluster sample survey (Niyantrita Madhumeha Bharata 2017, phase 1) were analyzed. Obesity was determined using body mass index, and cross-tabulations were calculated across zones, age, gender, education, physical activity, and area. To determine statistical significance, t-tests were used. The odds of obesity within each category of the various factors were calculated using binary logistic regression.

RESULTS

Prevalence of obesity in India is 40.3%. Zonal variations were seen as follows: south highest at 46.51% and east lowest at 32.96%. Obesity was higher among women than men (41.88% vs. 38.67%), urban than rural (44.17% vs. 36.08%), and over 40 than under 40 (45.81% vs. 34.58%). More education implied a higher obesity (44.6% college vs. 38% uneducated), as did lowered physical activity (43.71% inactive vs. 32.56% vigorously active). The odds ratio for physical activity was 3.83, stronger than age (1.58), education (1.4), urban (1.3), and gender (1.2).

CONCLUSION

Obesity levels in India are very high, across all zones. The odds of being obese increases with age, and is higher among women and among urban dwellers. Obesity is the highest among aging urban men and women who are college educated and are sedentary. Physical activity and aging are the strongest determinants of obesity. Given the high cost of obesity in terms of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and Alzheimer's disease, urgent public health measures are necessary to reduce its impact.

Naringenin Sensitizes Resistant C6 Glioma Cells with a Repressive Impact on the Migrating Ability

Background:

Glioma, the most common form of a malignant brain tumour is characterised by a poor prognosis, which is attributable to its resistance against current therapeutic approaches. Temozolomide (TMZ), a DNA alkylating agent, is the first-line drug for glioma treatment. Long-term treatment using TMZ was reported to culminate in the development of resistance with overexpression of multidrug resistance 1 gene coded protein P-glycoprotein, which in turn releases the drugs from the tumour cells.

Purpose:

Thus, to circumvent such resistance issues, the current study attempted to explore the effect of naringenin (a flavanone) with proven antiglial tumour potential, in mitigating the features of TMZ resistance.

Methods:

Colony-forming assay, invasion assay and scratch wound assay were performed among the groups, namely tumour control (C6), vehicle control (V), naringenin (NGEN)-treated, drug-resistant tumour cells (C6R), and drug resistance cells added with NGEN (C6R+NGEN), to examine the impact of NGEN on migration and invasion. The effect of NGEN on filopodia length and density during cell migration was also studied in addition to the matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9) and p-ERK levels.

Results and Conclusion:

NGEN and C6R+NGEN groups had shown significant reduction (P < .01) in length and density of filopodia, colony formation, invasion and wound healing. Further, NGEN could also modify the assessed protein levels (P < .001), which were involved in migration and invasion in sensitive and resistant cells. Our study had provided the first evidence on NGEN-induced enhanced sensitivity against TMZ resistance with profound influence as an antimigratory and anti-invasive agent.

Physical Activity Patterns in India Stratified by Zones, Age, Region, BMI and Implications for COVID-19: A Nationwide Study

Rationale:

India has a high prevalence of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), which can be lowered by regular physical activity. To understand this association, recent population data is required which is representative of all the states and union territories of the country.

Objective:

We aimed to investigate the patterns of physical activity in India, stratified by zones, body mass index (BMI), urban, rural areas, and gender.

Method:

We present the analysis of physical activity status from the data collected during the phase 1 of a pan-India study. This (Niyantrita Madhumeha Bharata 2017) was a multicenter pan-India cluster sampled trial with dual objectives. A survey to identify all individuals at a high risk for diabetes, using a validated instrument called the Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS), was followed by a two-armed randomized yoga-based lifestyle intervention for the primary prevention of diabetes. The physical activity was scored as per IDRS (vigorous exercise or strenuous at work = 0, moderate exercise at home/work = 10, mild exercise at home/work = 20, no exercise = 30). This was done in a selected cluster using a mobile application. A weighted prevalence was calculated based on the nonresponse rate and design weight.

Results:

We analyzed the data from 2,33,805 individuals; the mean age was 41.4 years (SD 13.4). Of these, 50.6% were females and 49.4% were males; 45.8% were from rural areas and 54% from urban areas. The BMI was 24.7 ± 4.6 kg/m². Briefly, 20% were physically inactive and 57% of the people were either inactive or mildly active. 21.2% of females were found physically inactive, whereas 19.2% of males were inactive. Individuals living in urban localities were proportionately more inactive (21.7% vs. 18.8%) or mildly active (38.9% vs. 34.8%) than the rural people. Individuals from the central (29.6%) and south zones (28.6%) of the country were also relatively inactive, in contrast to those from the northwest zone (14.2%). The known diabetics were found to be physically inactive (28.3% vs. 19.8%) when compared with those unaware of their diabetic status.

Conclusion:

20% and 37% of the population in India are not active or mildly active, respectively, and thus 57% of the surveyed population do not meet the physical activity regimen recommended by the World Health Organization. This puts a large Indian population at risk of developing various NCDs, which are being increasingly reported to be vulnerable to COVID-19 infections. India needs to adopt the four strategic objectives recommended by the World Health Organization for reducing the prevalence of physical inactivity.

Depression in High-Risk Type 2 Diabetes Adults

BACKGROUND

Patients suffering from diabetes mellitus are two to three times more vulnerable to develop depressive symptomatology.

PURPOSE

To report the association between depression and high-risk diabetes in India.

METHODS

A total of 1,606 adults were recruited for the study. A patient health questionnaire was used to determine the depression on the basis of score. A statistical analysis was done using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and binary logistic regression to determine the association between diabetes categories and four degrees of depression.

RESULTS

Out of 1,606 participants, 52.6% were males and 47.4% were females, 56.4% belonged to the urban area and 43.6% to the rural area. However, 19.5% (314) had diabetes; 29.1% of diabetes individuals had minimal depression, 38.7% had mild, 17.2% moderate, 12.0% moderately severe, and 3.1% had severe depression. In the self-reported diabetic participant group (N = 142), there was a significantly higher degree of severe depression (3.3%) in the uncontrolled group (HbA1c >7%) as compared to the well-controlled diabetes group (HbA1c <7%). ANCOVA in gender differences in the uncontrolled diabetes group showed that male gender had significantly (P = -.02) higher mean scores of depression.

CONCLUSION

This study found that there is a positive association between depression and uncontrolled diabetes in male gender.

Management of Type II Diabetes by Modulating the Modifiable Risk Factors: A Future Roadmap for Prevention of Cerebrovascular Complications

Background:

Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS) is a screening tool for quantifying the risk of diabetes mellitus (DM) development in the Indian population. The present study has evaluated the level of risk of developing DM in Chandigarh and Panchkula based on the IDRS score.

Methods:

As a part of a national diabetes control trial funded by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) and the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India, 1,916 participants from the Chandigarh and Panchkula regions were assessed for the risk of developing DM. Risk assessment was done on the basis of the IDRS score which includes age, family history, waist circumference, and physical activity as its contributing factors. Participants with an IDRS score <30 were in the low-risk category, those with 30 to 50 were in the moderate-risk category, and those with >60 were in the high-risk category for DM.

Results:

Out of the 1,916 screened respondents (59.86% females and 40.14% males), 894 participants (46.65%) were at a high risk for DM (IDRS >60), 764 (39.87%) were at a moderate risk (IDRS = 30–60), and 258 (13.46%) were at a low risk (IDRS <30). Waist circumference contributed to 35.90% of the high-risk category followed by age (19.67%) and physical activity (11.67%). Age and waist circumference also showed a strong correlation with the total IDRS score.

Conclusion:

The Chandigarh and Panchkula population showed a high tendency to develop DM based on the IDRS score. Modifiable risk factors such as waist circumference and physical activity were the major contributing factors. Apart from the modifiable risk factors, age was also another major contributing risk factor. Based on these outcomes, lifestyle modifications like yoga and exercise can be proposed for this population as a preventive approach to reduce the risk of developing DM and other associated cerebrovascular complications.

Genetic factors for idiopathic choroidal neovascularization

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate genetic factors associated with idiopathic choroidal neovascularization (ICNV). Methods: We conducted a case-control study including 69 cases with ICNV and 114 controls who underwent cataract surgery. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from genes reported to be related to AMD, CNV and uveitis were selected for this study. Results: In an univariate analysis, the rs669676 SNP located in the COL8A1 gene was associated with the proportion of people who has idiopathic CNV ( X2 = 9.3453, corrected p-value = 0.1). For the rs669676 SNP, minor allele homozygotes, in the dominant model of genotype analysis (GG versus AA-GA), it showed significant differences in the ICNV group vs controls (p = .01, OR = 1.219 (95%CI: 1.04-1.429)). Conclusions: The rs669676 SNP located in the COL8A1 gene may contribute to a genetic susceptibility for ICNV.

Role of Ionizing Radiation in Neurodegenerative Diseases

Ionizing radiation (IR) from terrestrial sources is continually an unprotected peril to human beings. However, the medical radiation and global radiation background are main contributors to human exposure and causes of radiation sickness. At high-dose exposures acute radiation sickness occurs, whereas chronic effects may persist for a number of years. Radiation can increase many circulatory, age related and neurodegenerative diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases occur a long time after exposure to radiation, as demonstrated in atomic bomb survivors, and are still controversial. This review discuss the role of IR in neurodegenerative diseases and proposes an association between neurodegenerative diseases and exposure to IR.

CCL2 single nucleotide polymorphism of rs1024611 implicates prominence of inflammatory cascade by univariate modeling in Indian AMD

Background

The role of chemotactic protein CCL2/MCP-1 has been widely explored in age related macular degeneration (AMD) patients as well as animal models through our previous studies.

Aim

Aim of the study was to examine the association of another variance of CCL2, rs1024611 in pathophysiology of AMD.

Methods

This particular SNP has been found to be involved in inflammatory processes in various diseases. Total 171 subjects were recruited in the study with all demographic details by administering a standard questionnaire. SNP analysis was performed with TaqMan assay. Linear univariate and ANCOVA modeling was performed to show the interaction of rs1024611 with another SNP variant of CCL-2/CCR-2 (rs4586 and rs1799865) and impact of individual genotypes on CCL-2 expression in the context of AMD pathology.

Results

Results showed that both heterozygous (AG, p = 0.01) and homozygous (GG, p = 0.0001) genotypes are associated with AMD pathology. Allele frequency analysis showed that ‘G’ allele is frequent in AMD patients as compared to controls (p = 0.0001). Moreover, AMD patients who smoke were found to be associated with ‘AG’ genotype (p = 0.0145). Although, we did not find any significant interaction between the SNP variants by linear univariate analysis but results show the effect of ‘CT’ genotype on ‘TT’ genotype in rs4586 by considering rs1024611 as covariate.

Conclusion

Based on these results it is imperative that CCL2 mediated pathology may be associated with AMD.

Immunogenetic profiling of 23 SNPs of cytokine and chemokine receptor genes through a minisequencing technique: Design, development and validation

The minisequencing technique offers accuracy and robustness to genotyping of polymorphic DNA variants, being an excellent option for the identification and analyses of prognostic/susceptibility markers in human diseases. Two multiplex minisequencing assays were designed and standardized to screen 23 candidate SNPs in cytokine, chemokine receptor and ligand genes previously associated with susceptibility to cancer and autoimmune disorders as well as to infectious diseases outcome. The SNPs were displayed in two separate panels (panel 1-IL2 rs2069762, TNFα rs1800629, rs361525; IL4 rs2243250; IL6 rs1800795; IL10 rs1800896, rs1800872; IL17A rs8193036, rs2275913 and panel 2-CCR3 rs309125, CCR4 rs6770096, rs2228428; CCR6 rs968334; CCR8 rs2853699; CXCR3 rs34334103, rs2280964;CXCR6 rs223435, rs2234358; CCL20 rs13034664, rs6749704; CCL22 rs4359426; CXCL10/IP-10 rs3921, rs56061981). A total of 305 DNA samples from healthy individuals were genotyped by minisequencing. To validate the minisequencing technique and to encompass the majority of the potential genotypes for all 23 SNPs, 20 of these samples were genotyped by Sanger sequencing. The results of both techniques were 100% in agreement. The technique of minisequencing showed high accuracy and robustness, avoiding the need for high quantities of DNA template samples. It was easily to be conducted in bulk samples derived from a highly admixed human population, being therefore an excellent option for immunogenetic studies.

Milk metabolites and neurodegeneration: Is there crosstalk?

Milk has been considered as a natural source of nutrition for decades. Milk is known to be nutrient-rich which aids the growth and development of the human body. Milk contains both macro- and micronutrients. Breast milk is widely regarded as the optimal source of neonatal nutrition due to its composition of carbohydrates, proteins, minerals and antibodies. However, despite the wide use of milk products, investigations into the role of milk in degenerative diseases have been limited. This review will examine the relationship between the β-casein gene found in bovine milk and disease states by using age-related macular degeneration as an example.

Endoplasmic reticulum stress-regulated CXCR3 pathway mediates inflammation and neuronal injury in acute glaucoma

Acute glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness in East Asia. The mechanisms underlying retinal neuronal injury induced by a sudden rise in intraocular pressure (IOP) remain obscure. Here we demonstrate that the activation of CXCL10/CXCR3 axis, which mediates the recruitment and activation of inflammatory cells, has a critical role in a mouse model of acute glaucoma. The mRNA and protein expression levels of CXCL10 and CXCR3 were significantly increased after IOP-induced retinal ischemia. Blockade of the CXCR3 pathway by deleting CXCR3 gene significantly attenuated ischemic injury-induced upregulation of inflammatory molecules (interleukin-1β and E-selectin), inhibited the recruitment of microglia/monocyte to the superficial retina, reduced peroxynitrite formation, and prevented the loss of neurons within the ganglion cell layer. In contrast, intravitreal delivery of CXCL10 increased leukocyte recruitment and retinal cell apoptosis. Inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress with chemical chaperones partially blocked ischemic injury-induced CXCL10 upregulation, whereas induction of ER stress with tunicamycin enhanced CXCL10 expression in retina and primary retinal ganglion cells. Interestingly, deleting CXCR3 attenuated ER stress-induced retinal cell death. In conclusion, these results indicate that ER stress-medicated activation of CXCL10/CXCR3 pathway has an important role in retinal inflammation and neuronal injury after high IOP-induced ischemia.

Exploring the role of VEGF in Indian Age related macular degeneration

BACKGROUND

Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is major devastating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by progressive irreversible vision loss in the elderly persons. In spite of several genetic and environmental factors, the role of VEGF and CFH predispose the pathological phenomenon in the AMD patients.

PURPOSE

The aim of the study was to estimate the VEGF levels in the serum of AMD patients and its correlation with co-morbidity of the participants.

METHODS

The study recruited the 98 AMD patients and 59 controls with proper consent of the participants as per the exclusion-inclusion criteria. The co-morbidity and socio-economic details were obtained by introducing the standard questionnaire amongst the participants. Serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was estimated by ELISA and compared with the control population of the study. The levels of VEGF in the serum of AMD patients and controls were compared with Mann-Whitney U-test. Kruskal Wallis one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed to analyze more than two variables in the study.

RESULTS

Elevated level of VEGF was found in AMD patients as compared to controls. Surprisingly, we did not find significant changes among wet AMD subtypes i.e. minimal, predominant and classic wet AMD. However, we have demonstrated the intravitreal anti-VEGF treatment (avastin) in AMD patients could reduce the systemic VEGF levels although it was not significant. Moreover, the heart ailment in the AMD patients could also influence the VEGF levels.

CONCLUSION

Our study is consistent with previous studies describing the imperative significance of VEGF in AMD pathology. However, our study did not reveal the role of VEGF in wet AMD progression but it is well established causative agent for the same. The increased levels of VEGF in heart ailment among AMD patients are significant.

Novel CCR3 Antagonists Are Effective Mono- and Combination Inhibitors of Choroidal Neovascular Growth and Vascular Permeability

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a defining feature of wet age-related macular degeneration. We examined the functional role of CCR3 in the development of CNV in mice and primates. CCR3 was associated with spontaneous CNV lesions in the newly described JR5558 mice, whereas CCR3 ligands localized to CNV-associated macrophages and the retinal pigment epithelium/choroid complex. Intravitreal injection of neutralizing antibodies against vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, CCR3, CC chemokine ligand 11/eotaxin-1, and CC chemokine ligand 24/eotaxin-2 all reduced CNV area and lesion number in these mice. Systemic administration of the CCR3 antagonists GW766994X and GW782415X reduced spontaneous CNV in JR5558 mice and laser-induced CNV in mouse and primate models in a dose-dependent fashion. Combination treatment with antivascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 antibody and GW766994X yielded additive reductions in CNV area and hyperpermeability in mice. Interestingly, topical GW766994X and intravitreal anti-CCR3 antibody yielded strong systemic effects, reducing CNV in the untreated, contralateral eye. Contrarily, ocular administration of GW782415X in primates failed to substantially elevate plasma drug levels or to reduce the development of grade IV CNV lesions. These findings suggest that CCR3 signaling may be an attractive therapeutic target for CNV, utilizing a pathway that is at least partly distinct from that of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor. The findings also demonstrate that systemic exposure to CCR3 antagonists may be crucial for CNV-targeted activity.

Glycine gated spiking inhibitory postsynaptic membrane at the synaptic cleft

Background

Enzyme modified field effect transistor (ENFET) may be used to represent the variable conductance of transmitter-gated ion channels in the postsynaptic region of the neuron.

Purpose

The objective of this work is to develop a simple analog circuit model that can simulate the function of neurotransmitter glycine gated ion channels of postsynaptic membrane at the synaptic cleft.

Methods

In this paper, Glycine sensitive ENFET is incorporated into the Hodgkin-Huxley (H-H) circuit model of the postsynaptic membrane at the synaptic cleft.

Results

Simulation of the circuit model yields an output representing the membrane potential of the synaptic region. Simulation is performed in MATLAB environment for inhibitory action of synapses.

Conclusion

This model can be used in neuro-bioengineering fields for simulation of binding activity and electrical activity of the postsynaptic region.

Study of five novel non-synonymous polymorphisms in human brain-expressed genes in a Colombian sample

Background

Non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (nsSNPs) in brain-expressed genes represent interesting candidates for genetic research in neuropsychiatric disorders.

Purpose

To study novel nsSNPs in brain-expressed genes in a sample of Colombian subjects.

Methods

We applied an approach based on in silico mining of available genomic data to identify and select novel nsSNPs in brain-expressed genes. We developed novel genotyping assays, based in allele-specific PCR methods, for these nsSNPs and genotyped them in 171 Colombian subjects.

Results

Five common nsSNPs (rs6855837; p.Leu395Ile, rs2305160; p.Thr394Ala, rs10503929; p.Met289Thr, rs2270641; p.Thr4Pro and rs3822659; p.Ser735Ala) were studied, located in the CLOCK, NPAS2, NRG1, SLC18A1 and WWC1 genes. We reported allele and genotype frequencies in a sample of South American healthy subjects. There is previous experimental evidence, arising from genome-wide expression and association studies, for the involvement of these genes in several neuropsychiatric disorders and endophenotypes, such as schizophrenia, mood disorders or memory performance.

Conclusions

Frequencies for these nsSNPSs in the Colombian samples varied in comparison to different HapMap populations. Future study of these nsSNPs in brain-expressed genes, a synaptogenomics approach, will be important for a better understanding of neuropsychiatric diseases and endophenotypes in different populations.

Age-related macular degeneration: insights into inflammatory genes

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects approximately 8.7% of elderly people worldwide (>55 years old). AMD is characterized by a multifactorial aetiology that involves several genetic and environmental risk factors (genes, ageing, smoking, family history, dietary habits, oxidative stress, and hypertension). In particular, ageing and cigarette smoking (including oxidative compounds and reactive oxygen species) have been shown to significantly increase susceptibility to the disease. Furthermore, different genes (CFH, CFI, C2, C3, IL-6, IL-8, and ARMS2) that play a crucial role in the inflammatory pathway have been associated with AMD risk. Several genetic and molecular studies have indicated the participation of inflammatory molecules (cytokines and chemokines), immune cells (macrophages), and complement proteins in the development and progression of the disease. Taking into consideration the genetic and molecular background, this review highlights the genetic role of inflammatory genes involved in AMD pathogenesis and progression.

Using current data to define new approach in age related macular degeneration: need to accelerate translational research

Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the major retinal degenerative disease of ageing whose complex genetic basis remains undeciphered. The involvement of various other factors like mitochondrial genes, cytoskeletal proteins and the role of epigenetics has been described in this review. Several population based AMD genetic studies have been carried out worldwide. Despite the increased publication of reports, clinical translation still eludes this davastating disease. We suggest models to address roadblocks in clinical translation hoping that these would be beneficial to drive AMD research towards innovative biomarkers and therapeutics Therefore, addressing the need large autopsy studies and combining it with efficient use of bioinformatic tools, statistical modeling and probing SNP-biomarker association are key to time bound resolution of this disease.

Why AMD is a disease of ageing and not of development: mechanisms and insights

Ageing disorders can be defined as the progressive and cumulative outcome of several defective cellular mechanisms as well as metabolic pathways, consequently resulting in degeneration. Environment plays an important role in its pathogenesis. In contrast, developmental disorders arise from inherited mutations and usually the role of environmental factors in development of disease is minimal. Age related macular degeneration (AMD) is one such retinal degenerative disorder which starts with the progression of age. Metabolism plays an important role in initiation of such diseases of ageing. Cholesterol metabolism and their oxidized products like 7-ketocholesterol have been shown to adversely impact retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. These molecules can initiate mitochondrial apoptotic processes and also influence the complements factors and expression of angiogenic proteins like VEGF etc. In this review we highlight why and how AMD is an ageing disorder and not a developmental disease substantiated by disrupted cholesterol metabolism common to several age related diseases.

Blood expression levels of chemokine receptor CCR3 and chemokine CCL11 in age-related macular degeneration: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Dysregulation of the CCR3/CCL11 pathway has been implicated in the pathogenesis of choroidal neovascularisation, a common feature of late age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of CCR3 and its ligand CCL11 in peripheral blood in patients with neovascular AMD.

METHODS

Patients with neovascular AMD and healthy controls were included. Blood samples were obtained and prepared for flow cytometry to investigate the expression of CCR3. Levels of CCL11 were measured in plasma using Cytometric Bead Array. Differences between the groups were tested using Kruskal-Wallis test and Mann-Whitney U test.

RESULTS

Patients (n = 83) with neovascular AMD and healthy control persons (n = 114) were included in the study. No significant difference in the expression of CCR3 was found on CD9+ granulocytes when comparing patients suffering from neovascular AMD with any of the control groups. We did not find any alteration in CCL11 levels in patients among the age matched groups. There was no correlation between expression of CCR3/CCL11 and clinical response to treatment with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF).

CONCLUSION

Our results do not suggest a systemic alteration of the CCR3/CCL11 receptor/ligand complex in patients with neovascular AMD.

An experimental study on choroidal neovascularization induced by Krypton laser in rat model

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this work was to study the efficacy and safety of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) formation induced by Krypton laser in Brown Norway (BN) rats, and observe the trend of the change of CNV after laser photocoagulation.

METHODS

Twenty-five male BN rats were involved in this study. Two eyes of one rat without any laser photocoagulation were randomly selected as the control group, and the other 48 eyes of 24 rats were selected as the experimental group. Eight eyes of four rats were randomly selected to receive the examinations of fundus fluorescein angiography (FFA), histopathology, and transmission electron microscopy 3, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 56 days after laser photocoagulation.

RESULTS

After laser photocoagulation, the leakage appeared in burns on day 7 (59%), reached the peak on day 21 (84%), (p<0.01), and remained stable after day 21, proven by FFA and histopathology (p>0.05). The thickness of CNV increased from day 7 to day 21 (p<0.01), and remained stable after day 21 (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

The experimental model of CNV can be successfully induced by Krypton laser in rats with a stable, long-lasting, and high success rate. After laser photocoagulation, the leakages appear on day 7, reach the peak on day 21, and remain stable after day 21.

Association between CFH Y402H polymorphism and age related macular degeneration in North Indian cohort

The purpose of the study was to determine serum complement factor H (CFH) levels in patients of age related macular degeneration (AMD) and examine its association with CFH Y402H polymorphism. 115 AMD patients and 61 normal controls were recruited in this study. The single nucleotide polymorphism was assayed by real time PCR and serum CFH levels were measured by ELISA and standardized to total serum protein. Chi-square test was applied to polymorphism analysis while Mann Whitney U-statistic for CFH-levels. Mendelian randomization approach was used for determining causal relationship. The genotype frequency differed between the AMD patients (TT- 18.3%, TC-41.3% and CC-40.4%) and controls (TT-76.3%, TC-13.6%, and CC-10.1%) (p = 0001). The frequency of alleles was also significantly different when AMD (T-39% and C-61%) was compared to controls (T-83% and C-17%) (p = 0.0001). Level of serum CFH was significantly lower in AMD patients as compared to normal controls (p = 0.001). Our data showed that the CFH Y402H polymorphism is a risk factor for AMD in the North Indian population. Mendelian randomization approach revealed that CFH Y402H polymorphism affects AMD risk through the modification of CFH serum levels.