Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α)-308G/A promoter polymorphism in colorectal cancer in ethnic Kashmiri population - A case control study in a detailed perspective

Low-Penetrance Susceptibility Variants in Colorectal Cancer-Current Outlook in the Field

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most frequent and mortality-causing neoplasia, with various distributions between populations. Strong hereditary predispositions are the causatives of a small percentage of CRC, and most cases have no transparent genetic background. This is a vast arena for exploring cancer low-susceptibility genetic variants. Nonetheless, the research that has been conducted to date has failed to deliver consistent conclusions and often features conflicting messages, causing chaos in this field. Therefore, we decided to organize the existing knowledge on this topic. We screened the PubMed and Google Scholar databases. We drew up markers by gene locus gathered by hallmark: oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, genes involved in DNA damage repair, genes involved in metabolic pathways, genes involved in methylation, genes that modify the colonic microenvironment, and genes involved in the immune response. Low-penetration genetic variants increasing the risk of cancer are often population-specific, hence the urgent need for large-scale testing. Such endeavors can be successful only when financial decision-makers are united with social educators, medical specialists, genetic consultants, and the scientific community. Countries' policies should prioritize research on this subject regardless of cost because it is the best investment. In this review, we listed potential low-penetrance CRC susceptibility alleles whose role remains to be established.

UPLC-Q-TOF/MS-Based Serum Metabolomics Reveals Potential Anti-tumor Mechanism of Banxia Xiexin Decoction in Colorectal Cancer Mice

OBJECTIVE

To clarify the potential mechanism of Banxia Xiexin Decoction (BXD) on colorectal cancer (CRC) from the perspective of metabolomics.

METHODS

Forty male C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into normal control (NC), azoxymethane/dextran sulfate sodium (AOM/DSS) model, low-dose BXD (L-BXD), high-dose BXD (H-BXD) and mesalamine (MS) groups according to a random number table, 8 mice in each group. Colorectal cancer model was induced by AOM/DSS. BXD was administered daily at doses of 3.915 (L-BXD) and 15.66 g/kg (H-BXD) by gavage for consecutive 21 days, and 100 mg/kg MS was used as positive control. Following the entire modeling cycle, colon length of mice was measured and quantity of colorectal tumors were counted. The spleen and thymus index were determined by calculating the spleen/thymus weight to body weight. Inflammatory cytokine and changes of serum metabolites were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits and ultra performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole/time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS), respectively.

RESULTS

Notably, BXD supplementation protected against weight loss, mitigated tumor formation, and diminished histologic damage in mice treated with AOM/DSS (P<0.05 or P<0.01). Moreover, BXD suppressed expression of serum inflammatory enzymes, and improved the spleen and thymus index (P<0.05). Compared with the normal group, 102 kinds of differential metabolites were screened in the AOM/DSS group, including 48 potential biomarkers, involving 18 main metabolic pathways. Totally 18 potential biomarkers related to CRC were identified, and the anti-CRC mechanism of BXD was closely related to D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, arginine biosynthesis, nitrogen metabolism and so on.

CONCLUSION

BXD exerts partial protective effects on AOM/DSS-induced CRC by reducing inflammation, protecting organism immunity ability, and regulating amino acid metabolism.

In severe acne vulgaris, TNF-α gene variants are connected to increased TNF-α gene expression and insulin resistance

BACKGROUND

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the pilosebaceous unit, commonly presenting as comedones, papules, pustules, or nodules on the face, upper limbs, torso, and back, with comedones formation being the primary pathology leading to disfiguring inflammation, hyperpigmentation, scarring, and psychological impact.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to investigate the significance of two genetic variants in the promoter region of the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) gene and their association with insulin resistance (IR) in acne patients. To understand how these variants contribute to AV and its associated IR.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

An analytical cross-sectional study with a case-control design and research evaluation was carried out on 87 AV patients and 73 healthy volunteers. The medical histories of both groups were obtained, as well as the severity and duration of inflammation among acne sufferers, as well as demographic data. Biochemical analysis was performed on both sets of participants, including fasting blood glucose levels, insulin levels while fasting, IR, and serum TNF-α. PCR-RFLP analysis identified -863 G > A (rs1800630) and -308 G > A (rs1800629) variations, and real-time PCR analysis evaluated TNF-α gene expression in both patients and healthy people.

RESULTS

Acne patients exhibited significantly higher levels of IR, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, serum TNF-α, and TNF-α folding change, when compared to healthy controls. The co-dominant model for -863 G > A and -308 G > A variants exhibited significant variations between the two groups. Severe acne patients who had the A/A genotype for -308 variants exhibited higher levels of IR, serum TNF-α, and TNF-α folding change. Highly significant positive linear correlation between IR, serum TNF-α, and TNF-α folding change in severe AV.

CONCLUSION

There is a correlation between AV, especially severe acne, and the -863 G > A and -308 G > A polymorphism, which influences TNF-α gene expression and serum TNF-α levels.

TNF-α-1031T/C gene polymorphism as a predictor of malnutrition in patients with gastric cancer

Introduction

Malnutrition is a complex clinical syndrome, the exact mechanism of which is yet not fully understood. Studies have found that malnutrition is associated with anorexia and inadequate intake, tumor depletion, leptin, tumor-induced metabolic abnormalities in the body, and catabolic factors produced by the tumor in the circulation and cytokines produced by the host immune system. Among these, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are present in the gene encoding the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α.

Aim

The objective of this study was to investigate TNF-α -1,031 T/C gene polymorphism as an unfavorable predictor of malnutrition in patients with gastric cancer.

Methods

The study group consisted of 220 gastric cancer patients treated at Affiliated Jinhua Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine. Malnutrition was mainly assessed by the Global Consensus on Malnutrition Diagnostic Criteria (GLIM). DNA was extracted from peripheral leukocytes of whole blood samples using an animal DNA extraction kit. DNA was amplified using a 1.1× T3 Super PCR mixture and genotyped using SNP1 software.

Results

There are three major genetic polymorphisms in TNF-α. Among the 220 patients with gastric cancer, there were 7 patients with the CC genotype, 61 with the CT genotype and 152 with the TT genotype. Compared to patients with the TT genotype, patients with the C allele had an approximately 2.5-fold higher risk of developing malnutrition (p = 0.003; OR = 0.406). On the basis of multivariate analysis, patients with the CC genotype had an approximately 20.1-fold higher risk of developing malnutrition (p = 0.013; OR = 20.114), while those with the CT genotype had an almost 3.7-fold higher risk of malnutrition (p = 0.002; OR = 3.218).

Conclusion

SNP (-1,031 T/C) of the TNF-α may be a useful marker in the assessment of the risk of nutritional deficiencies in gastric cancer patients. Patients with gastric cancer carrying the C allele should be supported by early nutritional intervention, but more research is still needed to explore confirmation.

Understanding the potential immunogenetic role of TNFα-308 polymorphism in the pathogenesis of recurrent miscarriage

Background

Recurrent miscarriage (RM) represents the spontaneous termination of two or more successive pregnancies. TNFα is a proinflammatory cytokine that is often considered harmful for embryonic development when expressed beyond normal levels.

Aim

The study was conducted to assess the association between TNFα-308 polymorphism and RM pathogenesis.

Methods

Samples of blood were obtained from patients and controls through venipuncture. The levels of TNFα in serum were measured by ELISA. TNFα gene promoter-associated single-nucleotide polymorphism was investigated with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) techniques with precise primers and the restriction endonuclease, NcoI.

Results

Serum TNFα levels in patients were considerably high (p < 0.05) than controls. The genotype and allele frequencies for TNFα gene polymorphism differs significantly (p = 0.0089; p = 0.0043 respectively) between patients and controls. The TNFα-308 SNP exhibited a link with higher RM risk in heterozygous (GG vs. GA; OR: 3.086, 95% CI: 1.475-6.480; p: 0.0027), dominant (GG vs. GA + AA; OR: 2.919, 95% CI: 1.410-6.056, p: 0.0038), and allelic/codominant (G vs. A; OR: 2.449, 95% CI: 1.313-4.644, p: 0.0064) models. However, this SNP showed an insignificant association with higher and lower RM risk in homozygous (GG vs. AA; OR: 1.915, 95% CI: 0.3804-10.99, p: 0.6560) and recessive (AA vs. GA + GG; OR: 0.6596, 95% CI: 0.1152-3.297, p: >0.9999) models, respectively. Further, the TNFα-308G/A genotype frequencies were in concord with HWE both in the controls (χ² = 3.235; p = 0.1985) and the patients (χ² = 0.0117; p = 0.9942).

Conclusion

The serum TNFα levels were significantly higher in the patients than the controls. The genotyping analysis also demonstrated that TNFα-308G/A SNP significantly increases the overall risk of RM, suggesting that the SNP modulates the TNFα gene expression and thereby increases serum TNFα levels that adversely affect the pregnancy outcome.

Association of tumor necrosis factor alpha ‐308 single nucleotide polymorphism with SARS CoV‐2 infection in an Iraqi Kurdish population

Uncovering risk factors playing roles in the severity of Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid‐19) are important for understanding pathoimmunology of the disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS CoV‐2). Genetic variations in innate immune genes have been found to be associated with Covid‐19 infections. A single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in a promoter region of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) gene, TNF‐α −308G>A, increases expression of TNF‐α protein against infectious diseases leading to immune dysregulations and organ damage. This study aims to discover associations between TNF‐α −308G>A SNP and Covid‐19 infection. Polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) was used for genotyping a general Kurdish population and Covid‐19 patients. The homozygous mutant (AA) genotype was found to be rare in the current studied population. Interestingly, the heterozygous (GA) genotype was significantly (p value = 0.0342) higher in the Covid‐19 patients than the general population. This suggests that TNF‐α −308G>A SNP might be associated with Covid‐19 infections. Further studies with larger sample sizes focusing on different ethnic populations are recommended.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking study on the mechanism of colorectal cancer treatment using Xiao-Chai-Hu-Tang

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

We aimed to predict the targets and signal pathways of Xiao-Chai-Hu-Tang (XCHT) in the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) based on network pharmacology, just as well as to further analyze its anti-CRC material basis and mechanism of action.

METHODS

We adopted Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP) and Traditional Chinese Medicine Integrated Database (TCMID) databases to screen the active ingredients and potential targets of XCHT. CRC-related targets were retrieved by analyzing published microarray data (accession number GSE110224) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. The common targets were used to construct the "herb-active ingredient-target" network using the Cytoscape 3.8.0 software. Next, we constructed and analyzed protein-to-protein interaction (PPI) using BisoGenet and CytoNCA plug-in in Cytoscape. We then performed Gene Ontology (GO) functional and the Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses of target genes using the R package of clusterProfiler. Furthermore, we used the AutoDock Tools software to conduct molecular docking studies on the active ingredients and key targets to verify the network pharmacological analysis results.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 71 active XCHT ingredients and 20 potential anti-CRC targets. The network analysis revealed quercetin, stigmasterol, kaempferol, baicalein, and acacetin as potential key compounds, and PTGS2, NR3C2, CA2, and MMP1 as potential key targets. The active ingredients of XCHT interacted with most CRC disease targets. We showed that XCHT's therapeutic effect was attributed to its synergistic action (multi-compound, multi-target, and multi-pathway). Our GO enrichment analysis showed 46 GO entries, including 20 biological processes, 6 cellular components, and 20 molecular functions. We identified 11 KEGG signaling pathways, including the IL-17, TNF, Toll-like receptor, and NF-kappa B signaling pathways. Our results showed that XCHT could play a role in CRC treatment by regulating different signaling pathways. The molecular docking experiment confirmed the correlation between five core compounds (quercetin, stigmasterol, kaempferol, baicalein, and acacetin) just as well as PTGS2, NR3C2, CA2, and MMP1.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we described the potential active ingredients, possible targets, and key biological pathways responsible for the efficacy of XCHT in CRC treatment, providing a theoretical basis for further research.

Network Pharmacology-Based Study on the Mechanism of Gegen Qinlian Decoction against Colorectal Cancer

Purpose

Gegen Qinlian decoction (GQD) has been used to treat gastrointestinal diseases, such as diarrhea and ulcerative colitis (UC). A recent study demonstrated that GQD enhanced the effect of PD-1 blockade in colorectal cancer (CRC). This study used network pharmacology analysis to investigate the mechanisms of GQD as a potential therapeutic approach against CRC.

Materials and Methods

Bioactive chemical ingredients (BCIs) of GQD were collected from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database. CRC-specific genes were obtained using the gene expression profile GSE110224 from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Target genes related to BCIs of GQD were then screened out. The GQD-CRC ingredient-target pharmacology network was constructed and visualized using Cytoscape software. A protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was subsequently constructed and analyzed with BisoGenet and CytoNCA plug-in in Cytoscape. Gene Ontology (GO) functional and the Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis for target genes were then performed using the R package of clusterProfiler.

Results

One hundred and eighteen BCIs were determined to be effective on CRC, including quercetin, wogonin, and baicalein. Twenty corresponding target genes were screened out including PTGS2, CCNB1, and SPP1. Among these genes, CCNB1 and SPP1 were identified as crucial to the PPI network. A total of 212 GO terms and 6 KEGG pathways were enriched for target genes. Functional analysis indicated that these targets were closely related to pathophysiological processes and pathways such as biosynthetic and metabolic processes of prostaglandins and prostanoids, cytokine and chemokine activities, and the IL-17, TNF, Toll-like receptor, and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways.

Conclusion

The study elucidated the “multiingredient, multitarget, and multipathway” mechanisms of GQD against CRC from a systemic perspective, indicating GQD to be a candidate therapy for CRC treatment.

Effects of the IL6 -174G>C promoter polymorphism and IL-6 serum levels on the progression of cutaneous malignant melanoma

Cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) is one of the most immunogenic types of cancer, with a 6-fold higher rate of spontaneous regression than any other malignancy. In addition to responsiveness to different immunotherapies, the immunogenicity of CMM highlights the important role of the host immune system in the response to CMM. The present study aimed to explore the role of two functional promoter polymorphisms [IL6 -174G>C (rs1800785) and TNFA -308G>A (rs1800629)] in the regulation of the genes encoding the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, specifically in patients with CMM. A total of 76 patients with CMM and 200 control subjects were genotyped using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The genotype frequencies for both single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) did not differ significantly between the patients and controls (P=0.358 and P=0.810 for IL6 and TNFA, respectively). However, compared with carriers of C-allele genotypes (CG+CC), patients with the IL6 -174GG genotype exhibited more advanced melanoma (Clark scale ≥3; P=0.037) and shorter survival times, particularly those who worked outdoors (in conditions with increased sunlight exposure; P=0.016). Furthermore, the serum IL-6 levels of patients with CMM were significantly higher than those of the control subjects, which were associated with unfavorable blood and serum characteristics and tumor progression (development of new distant metastases; P=0.004), and with a shorter overall survival time (P=0.042). Using a Cox proportional hazard model, the IL6 -174GG genotype was found to be an independent prognostic factor for reduced survival time (P=0.030), together with sex (being male; P=0.004) and occupations with higher exposure to sunlight (P=0.047). In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated that the promoter polymorphisms IL6 -174G>C and TNFA -308G>A are not predisposing factors for CMM. However, the IL6 -174G>C SNP and IL-6 serum concentrations are likely to influence the progression of the disease, and the GG genotype and higher IL-6 serum levels may indicate shorter survival.

Study the Association of Tumor Necrosis Factor Promoter Polymorphism with Type 2 Diabetic Nephropathy

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is well known to include an inflammatory component that has been considered to be related to diabetic complications. Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the significant complications as it constitutes the most frequent cause of end-stage renal disease. Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) is known as a multifunctional proinflammatory cytokine which is associated with some pathological processes such as immunoregulation, proliferation, inflammation, and apoptosis. The aim was to explore the association between the TNF-α promoter -1031T/C single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and the serum TNF-α level in addition to nephropathy among type 2 diabetic patients. The study included 38 T2DM subjects without nephropathy (DM group), 40 subjects with DN, and 20 controls. Identification of TNF-α promoter gene polymorphism -1031T/C was done by PCR-RFLP, and genotyping was confirmed by direct sequencing. The serum TNF-α level was assessed by ELISA. Correlations were tested by Pearson's correlation analysis. Logistic regression was used to detect the most independent factor for development of DN. The serum level of TNF-α in the DM group was significantly higher than controls (p < 0.001); also, the DN group was considerably higher than controls and DM without nephropathy (p < 0.001). Also, there was a significant positive correlation between serum levels of TNF-α with FBG (fasting blood glucose), creatinine, total cholesterol, LDL-C, HbA1c, and microalbumin/creatinine ratio (ACR) among the DN group (p = 0.042, <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, 0.027, and 0.043, respectively). Mutant homozygous CC and heterozygous TC genotypes were higher in DN than in DM and controls. C allele was more represented in DN than in DM and controls (p = 0.003) while T allele was higher in controls than in DM and DN patients. The levels of TNF-α were higher in subjects who had mutant CC than the wild TT genotype among DN (p < 0.001). C allele was more risky for DN than T allele between DN and controls by 5.4-fold (CI: 1.75-16.68) as well as between DN and DM by 2.25-fold (CI: 1.1-4.59). Conclusion. Serum levels of TNF-α were higher in individuals with mutant CC genotype of -1031T/C TNF-α gene, and C allele could be associated with increased risk for nephropathy among patients with T2DM.

Associations of the -238(G/A) and -308(G/A) TNF-α Promoter Polymorphisms and TNF-α Serum Levels with the Susceptibility to Gastric Precancerous Lesions and Gastric Cancer Related to Helicobacter pylori Infection in a Moroccan Population

Objective:

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) induces the production of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which is closely related to a gastric epithelial injury. TNF-α gene polymorphism and TNF-α serum levels are associated with various malignant conditions. Identification of the ideal marker for gastric cancer (GC) is still the leading aim of several trials. Physio-pathological considerations of GC led us to investigate the association of two TNF-α promoter polymorphisms (-308G>A and -238G>A), and TNF-α serum levels with the susceptibility to gastric precancerous (PL) and GC.

Methods:

Patients suffering from gastric lesions (65 chronic gastritis, 50 PL, 40 GC) related to H. pylori ‎infection , and 63 healthy controls (HC) were involved in this study. Individuals are genotyped by TNF-α gene promoter sequencing and TNF-α serum levels are measured by ELISA quantitative method.

Results:

Regarding TNF-α-308 G/A locus, we noticed higher risk for GC (OR=4.3, CI 1.5-11.9, p-value=0.005) and PL (OR=3.4, CI 1.2-9.2, p-value=0.01) for individuals with AA/GA genotypes compared to GG genotype. Concerning TNF-α-238 G/A locus, we noticed higher risk for GC (OR=5.9, CI 1.2-27.5, p-value=0.01) and PL (OR=4.8, CI 1.3-18, p-value=0.01) for individuals with GG genotype compared to AA/GA genotypes. We noticed that TNF-α serum levels have been increased together with gastric lesions severity. Moreover, TNF-α-308 and TNF-α-238 A alleles seemed to, respectively, upregulate and downregulate TNF-α serum levels.

Conclusion:

The TNF-α -308 A allele has a promotive effect for GC progression, whereas the TNF-α -238 A allele has a protective function against GC progression. High levels of TNF-α seemed to be associated with the aggressiveness of gastric lesions. TNF-α gene polymorphisms and TNF-α serum levels might be helpful to select those patients who are at high risk for GC.

Gene-to-gene interactions and the association of TP53, XRCC1, TNFα, HMMR, MDM2 and PALB2 with breast cancer in Kyrgyz females

BACKGROUND

At present, little is known about the genetic background of breast cancer (BC) in Kyrgyz. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess gene-to-gene interactions and the contribution of p.Arg72Pro (TP53 gene), p.Gln399Arg (XRCC1 gene), p.Arg194Trp (XRCC1 gene), g.4682G > A (TNFα gene), p.Val353Ala (HMMR gene), c.14 + 309 T > G (MDM2 gene) and g.38444 T > G (PALB2 gene) polymorphic loci in breast cancer (BC) risk in females of Kyrgyz ethnicity.

METHODS

The case-control study comprised 103 females with histologically verified BC and 102 controls with no cancer. We used polymerase chain reaction-based restriction fragment length polymorphism to genotype polymorphic loci.

RESULTS

Gln/Arg heterozygous variant of XRCC1 gene's p.Gln399Arg locus, as well as combined carriage of Arg/Gln//Arg/Pro of XRCC1/TP53; Arg/Gln//T/T of XRCC1/MDM2; Arg/Gln//G/G and Arg/Gln//G/A of XRCC1/TNFα, Arg/Gln//T/T of XRCC1/PALB2; Arg/Gln//Arg/Arg and Arg/Gln//Arg/Trp for p.Gln399Arg and p.Arg194Trp polymorphic loci of XRCC1 were associated with BC in Kyrgyz females.

CONCLUSION

TP53, XRCC1, TNFα, HMMR, MDM2 and PALB2 genes' polymorphic site combinations appear to be candidate markers of genetic predisposition to BC in Kyrgyz population and prompt targeted personalized care.

Porcine Circovirus Type 2 Rep Enhances IL-10 Production in Macrophages via Activation of p38-MAPK Pathway

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is one of the major threats to pig farms worldwide. Although PCV2 has been identified to promote IL-10 production, the detailed regulatory roles of PCV2 Rep for IL-10 production remain unclear. Herein, we first found that PCV2 Rep, rather than PCV1 Rep, enhanced IL-10 expression at the later phase of PCV2 infection in porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs). Furthermore, we found that PCV2 Rep directly activated the p38-MAPK pathway to promote transcription factors NF-κB p50 and Sp1 binding to the il10 promoter, but PCV1 Rep did not. During PCV2 infection, however, PCV2 Rep promoted the binding activities of NF-κB p50 and Sp1 with the il10 promoter only at the later phase of PCV2 infection, since Rep proteins only expressed at the later phase of the infection. Moreover, silence of the thymine DNA glycosylase (TDG), a Rep-binding protein, significantly reduced the binding activities of NF-κB p50 and Sp1 with il10 promoter, resulting in the reduction of IL-10 production in PCV2-inoculated PAMs at the later phase of infection. Taken together, our results demonstrate that Rep proteins enhance IL-10 production during PCV2 infection of PAMs via activation of p38-MAPK pathways, in which host TDG is a critical mediator.

Association between host TNF-α, TGF-β1, p53 polymorphisms, HBV X gene mutation, HBV viral load and the progression of HBV-associated chronic liver disease in Indonesian patients

In developing countries, including Indonesia, there is a high mortality rate associated with the progression of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated chronic liver disease (CLD). The pathogenesis of HBV infection is influenced by viral and host factors. To determine potential associations between these factors, host single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on TNF-α, TGF-β1 and p53, HBV X gene mutation and HBV viral load were investigated in patients with HBV-associated CLD in Surabaya, Indonesia. Sera were collected from 87 CLD patients with HBV infection. TNF-α, TGF-β1 and p53 SNPs were genotyped by PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism. The HBV X gene was sequenced and compared with reference strains to determine mutations and the viral load was measured using reverse transcription-quantitative PCR. In Indonesian patients, no association between TNF-α, TGF-β1 and p53 SNPs and CLD or X gene mutation were identified. A total of 23% (20/87) of samples had HBV X gene mutations, including ten substitution types, one deletion and one insertion. Multinomial regression analysis revealed that the K130M/V131I mutations were correlated with CLD progression (OR, 7.629; 95% CI, 1.578-36.884). Significant differences in viral load were found in HBV-infected patients who had X gene mutations, such as R87W/G, I127L/T/N/S and K130M/V131I mutations (P<0.05). The presence of K130M and V131I mutations may be predictive for the progression of HBV-associated CLD in Indonesia.

TNF-α promoter polymorphisms (G-238A and G-308A) are associated with susceptibility to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and P. falciparum malaria: a study in malaria endemic area

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a proinflammatory cytokine associated with autoimmune and infectious diseases. Importance of TNF-α in P. falciparum malaria and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) have been demonstrated. However, association of functional promoter variants with SLE and malaria is lacking in malaria endemic population. A total of 204 female SLE patients and 224 age and sex matched healthy controls were enrolled in the study. Three hundred fourteen P. falciparum infected patients with different clinical phenotypes were included. TNF-α polymorphisms (G-238A & G-308A) were genotyped by PCR-RFLP. Plasma levels of TNF-α was quantified by ELISA. Heterozygous mutants and minor alleles of TNF-α (G-238A and G-308A) polymorphisms were significantly higher in SLE patients compared to healthy controls and associated with development of lupus nephritis. In addition, both promoter variants were associated with severe P. falciparum malaria. SLE patients demonstrated higher levels of plasma TNF-α compared to healthy controls. TNF-α (G-238A and G-308A) variants were associated with higher plasma TNF-α. In conclusion, TNF-α (G-238A & G-308A) variants are associated with higher plasma TNF-α levels in SLE patients residing in malaria endemic areas and could be a contributing factor in the development of SLE and susceptibility to severe P. falciparum malaria.

Contribution of Genetic Polymorphisms of Inflammation Response Genes on Sporadic Colorectal Cancer Predisposition Risk in Malaysian Patients - A Case Control Study

AIM:

To investigate the frequencies and association of polymorphic genotypes of IL-8 -251 T>A, TNF-α -308 G>A, ICAM-1 K469E, ICAM-1 R241G, IL-6 -174 G>C, and PPAR-γ 34 C>G in modulating susceptibility risk in Malaysian colorectal cancer (CRC) patients.

Methods:

In this case-control study, peripheral blood samples of 560 study subjects (280 CRC patients and 280 controls) were collected, DNA extracted and genotyped using PCR-RFLP and Allele Specific PCR. The association between polymorphic genotype and CRC susceptibility risk was determined using Logistic Regression analysis deriving Odds ratio (OR) and 95% CI.

Results:

On comparing the frequencies of genotypes of all single nucleotide polymorphisms ( SNPs ) in patients and controls, the homozygous variant genotypes IL-8 -251 AA and TNF-α -308 AA and variant A alleles were significantly higher in CRC patients. Investigation on the association of the variant alleles and genotypes singly, with susceptibility risk showed the homozygous variant A alleles and genotypes IL-8 -251 AA and TNF-α -308 AA to be at higher risk for CRC predisposition. Analysis based on age, gender and smoking habits showed that the polymorphisms IL8 -251 T>A and TNF – α 308 G>A contribute to a significantly higher risk among male and female who are more than 50 years and for smokers in this population.

Conclusion:

We observed an association between variant allele and genotypes of IL-8-251 T>A and TNF-α-308 G>A polymorphisms and CRC susceptibility risk in Malaysian patients. These two SNPs in inflammatory response genes which undoubtedly contribute to individual risks to CRC susceptibility may be considered as potential genetic predisposition factors for CRC in Malaysian population.

DETECTION OF TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR- (TNF- ) GENE PROMOTERS POLYMORPHISM AMONG LIVER CIRRHOSIS PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEPATITIS B VIRUS (HBV) INFECTION IN SURABAYA, INDONESIA

Polymorphisms in TNF-α gene promoter region are known of its role in the production of TNF-α which may influences the pathogenesis of liver disease. SNPs in positions 238 and 308 of TNF-α gene promoters may affect the production of these cytokines. This study was aimed to detect Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) on -238 and -308 positions in the TNF-α gene promoter among liver cirrhosis patients with HBV infection in Surabaya, Indonesia. This was descriptive exploratory research with cross sectional study design using serum liver cirrhosis patients with HBV infection in Endoscopy Outpatient Clinic Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya from April-May 2017. SNPs at -238 and -308 on TNF-α gene promoter (rs361525 and rs1800629 respectively) were detected using Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) with primers specific for the TNF-α promoter region and restriction enzymes NcoI and MspI. The genotypes of TNF-α gene promoter were assessed according to the length of the fragments produced in RFLP. Serum TNF-α levels was measured by commercial ELISA. In this study, as much as 149 positive HBsAg patients was found in Endoscopy Outpatient Clinic, Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya. From those amount, as much as 30 liver cirrhosis patients with positive HBsAg were obtained. From 2/30 (6.7%) patients showed the GA heterozygote SNP either position -238 or -308. No patient had the AA genotype. Median blood TNF-α level in women (38 ng / L) was higher than in men (33 ng / L). TNF-α levels in patients with GA heterozygote genotype at -238 and -308 in this research was not different than wild-type (GG genotype). Among patients with liver cirrhosis due to chronic HBV infection in Surabaya, Indonesia, Surabaya, we found GA polymorphisms the TNF-α promoter gene at positions -238 and -308 in 6.7% patients, and did not find homozygous AA polymorphisms. Further studies including larger numbers of patients from various ethnic backgrounds in Indonesia are needed to provide robust data on TNF-α gene promoter polymorphisms and their role in the pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis with HBV infection in this country.

A trial sequential meta-analysis of TNF-α -308G>A (rs800629) gene polymorphism and susceptibility to colorectal cancer

PURPOSE

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), secreted by the activated macrophages, may participate in the onset and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). The association of TNF-α -308 G>A (rs1800629) single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with CRC risk has been investigated by many studies but the results are inconclusive. A trial sequential meta-analysis was performed for precise estimation of the relationship between TNF-α -308 G>A gene polymorphism with CRC risk.

METHODS

Medline (PubMed), EMBASE (Excerpta-Medica) and Google Scholar were mined for relevant articles. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the significance of association.

RESULTS

The pooled analysis indicated no risk associated with TNF-α -308 G>A SNP and overall CRC risk in five genetic comparison models, i.e. allelic (A vs. G: P = 0.524; OR = 1.074, 95% CI = 0.863-1.335), homozygous (AA vs. GG: P = 0.489; OR = 1.227, 95% CI = 0.688-2.188), heterozygous (AG vs. GG: P = 0.811; OR = 1.024, 95% CI = 0.843-1.244), dominant (AA+AG vs. GG: P = 0.630; OR = 1.055, 95% CI = 0.849-1.311) and recessive (AA vs. AG+GG: P = 0.549; OR = 1.181, 95% CI = 0.686-2.033). Subgroup analysis revealed that TNF-α -308 G>A SNP is associated with reduced risk of CRC in Asian ethnicity. The study showed no publication bias.

CONCLUSIONS

No association of TNF-α -308 G>A SNP with overall CRC risk was found. This SNP is likely to be protective against CRC in Asian population when compared with Caucasian population. Larger prospective-epidemiological studies are warranted to elucidate the roles of TNF-α -308 G>A SNP in the etiology of CRC and to endorse the present findings.

A trial sequential meta-analysis of TNF-α -308G>A (rs800629) gene polymorphism and susceptibility to colorectal cancer

Purpose: Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), secreted by the activated macrophages, may participate in the onset and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). The association of TNF-α –308 G>A (rs1800629) single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) with CRC risk has been investigated by many studies but the results are inconclusive. A trial sequential meta-analysis was performed for precise estimation of the relationship between TNF-α –308 G>A gene polymorphism with CRC risk.

Methods: Medline (PubMed), EMBASE (Excerpta-Medica) and Google Scholar were mined for relevant articles. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the significance of association.

Results: The pooled analysis indicated no risk associated with TNF-α –308 G>A SNP and overall CRC risk in five genetic comparison models, i.e. allelic (A vs. G: P = 0.524; OR = 1.074, 95% CI = 0.863–1.335), homozygous (AA vs. GG: P = 0.489; OR = 1.227, 95% CI = 0.688–2.188), heterozygous (AG vs. GG: P = 0.811; OR = 1.024, 95% CI = 0.843–1.244), dominant (AA+AG vs. GG: P = 0.630; OR = 1.055, 95% CI = 0.849–1.311) and recessive (AA vs. AG+GG: P = 0.549; OR = 1.181, 95% CI = 0.686–2.033). Subgroup analysis revealed that TNF-α –308 G>A SNP is associated with reduced risk of CRC in Asian ethnicity. The study showed no publication bias.

Conclusions: No association of TNF-α –308 G>A SNP with overall CRC risk was found. This SNP is likely to be protective against CRC in Asian population when compared with Caucasian population. Larger prospective-epidemiological studies are warranted to elucidate the roles of TNF-α –308 G>A SNP in the etiology of CRC and to endorse the present findings.

Associations of tumor necrosis factor-α polymorphisms with the risk of colorectal cancer: a meta-analysis

Background: Recently, the roles of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) polymorphisms in colorectal cancer (CRC) were analyzed by some pilot studies, with inconsistent results. Therefore, we performed the present study to better assess the relationship between TNF-α polymorphisms and the risk of CRC.

Methods: Eligible studies were searched in PubMed, Medline, Embase and CNKI. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess correlations between TNF-α polymorphisms and CRC.

Results: A total of 22 studies were included for analyses. A significant association with the risk of CRC was detected for TNF-α -308 G/A (recessive model: P = 0.004, OR = 1.42, 95%CI 1.12–1.79) polymorphism in overall analyses. Further subgroup analyses based on ethnicity of participants revealed that TNF-α -238 G/A was significantly correlated with the risk of CRC in Caucasians (dominant model: P = 0.01, OR = 0.47, 95%CI 0.26–0.86; overdominant model: P = 0.01, OR = 2.27, 95%CI 1.20–4.30; allele model: P = 0.02, OR = 0.51, 95%CI 0.29–0.90), while -308 G/A polymorphism was significantly correlated with the risk of CRC in Asians (recessive model: P = 0.001, OR = 2.23, 95%CI 1.38–3.63).

Conclusions: Our findings indicated that TNF-α -238 G/A polymorphism may serve as a potential biological marker for CRC in Caucasians, and TNF-α -308 G/A polymorphism may serve as a potential biological marker for CRC in Asians.

Association of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF-α) -308G>A and -238G>A Polymorphisms with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Risk: A Meta-Analysis

Background

Multiple studies have been carried out examining the association of tumor necrosis factor-α gene (TNF-α) promoter region polymorphisms with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) risk. However, the results remain controversial and incomplete. Hence, we performed a meta-analysis to evaluate the association of the TNF-α -308G>A and -238G>A polymorphisms with RPL risk.

Materials and Methods

In this meta-analysis, a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Knowledge and EMBASE was performed to identify relevant studies published until December 1, 2017. The associations were assessed by odds ratio (OR) and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).

Results

A total of 29 case-control studies, comprising 20 studies on TNF-α -308G>A (3,461 cases and 3,895 controls) and nine studies on TNF-α -238G>A (2,589 cases and 2,664 controls), were included in the meta-analysis. Overall, we found TNF-α -308G>A to be associated with an increase in RPL risk under the homozygote (OR=1.716, 95% CI: 1.210-2.433, P=0.002) and the recessive (OR=1.554, 95% CI: 1.100-2.196, P=0.012) models. TNF-α -238G>A was also significantly associated with increased risk of RPL under the allele model (OR=1.554, 95% CI: 1.100-2.196, P=0.012). Stratified analysis revealed a more significant association between theTNF-α -308G>A polymorphism and increased RPL risk in Asians under the homozygote (OR=2.190, 95% CI: 1.465-3.274, P≤0.001), the dominant (OR=1.642, 95% CI: 1.269-2.125, P≤0.001) and the recessive (OR=1.456, 95% CI: 1.039-2.040, P=0.029) models, but not in Caucasians. A non-significant association was, however, identified between TNF-α -238G>A and RPL risk based on ethnicity. Moreover, TNF-α -308G>A and -238G>A polymorphisms were significantly associated with increased risk of RPL in high quality studies and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) subgroups.

Conclusion

The present meta-analysis demonstrates that TNF-α -308G>A and -238G>A polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of RPL.

The correlation between TNF-α-308 gene polymorphism and susceptibility to cervical cancer

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is closely related to the occurrence of human cancers. Cervical cancer seriously affects female health. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the correlation between the polymorphism of TNF-α-308 gene and susceptibility to cervical cancer. Whole blood was collected from 142 patients with cervical cancer and 150 healthy controls. PCR-RFLP was used to detect the polymorphism of TNF-α-308 and the correlation between polymorphism of TNF-α-308 and the susceptibility to cervical cancer was analyzed. The three genotypes of TNF-α-308 were GG, GA and AA, and the distributions of genotypes of TNF-α-308 were consistent with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in both cervical cancer group and control group. There were no significant differences in genotype and allele frequency between cervical cancer group and healthy control group (P>0.05). A/A genotype increased the risk of cervical cancer by 1.46 times with 95% confidence interval of 0.32-6.67. Different genotypes were not associated with tumor type (P>0.05). Different genotypes are correlated with cervical cancer TNM stages, tumor differentiation and lymph node metastasis. Proportion of GA+AA genotype in TNM stage III+IV group, low differentiation group and lymph node metastasis group were 28.1, 29.0 and 29.8%, respectively, which were significantly higher than those in stage I+II group, moderate/high differentiation group and non-lymph node metastasis group (P<0.05). The results suggested that TNF-α-308 gene polymorphism is associated with the degree of malignancy of cervical cancer. Female patients with A allele have higher malignant degree of cervical cancer.

Association of microRNA-423 rs6505162 C>A polymorphism with susceptibility and metastasis of colorectal carcinoma

Studies have evaluated the association between the SNP miRNA-423 rs6505162 C>A and cancer risk in several cancers with contradictory outcomes. It was reported that miRNA-423 rs6505162 C>A polymorphism was associated with the overall survival and the recurrence-free survival of colorectal carcinoma. However, no studies have reported the association between miRNA-423 rs6505162 C>A polymorphism and susceptibility of colorectal carcinoma.In this study, we investigated the association between miRNA-423 polymorphism with risk and clinicopathological parameters of colorectal carcinoma. The polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was used to genotype 117 colorectal carcinoma patients and 84 healthy controls.Our data indicated the frequencies of rs6505162 genotypes and alleles were significantly different between colorectal carcinoma patients and controls. Compared with CC homozygote, the AC heterozygote exhibited a significantly decreased risk of colorectal carcinoma; and the combination of AC and AA genotype was associated with decreased risk of colorectal carcinoma. The allele distribution of rs6505162 was significantly different between cases and controls. Furthermore, miR-423 rs6505162 C>A genotype showed a significant association with metastasis in patients (P = .022).Our study suggested that miR-423 rs6505162 C>A polymorphism was associated with the susceptibility and metastasis of colorectal carcinoma, and that miR-423 rs6505162 C>A polymorphism might be a potential biomarker for colorectal carcinoma.

Matrine Ameliorates Colorectal Cancer in Rats via Inhibition of HMGB1 Signaling and Downregulation of IL-6, TNF-α, and HMGB1

Matrine may be protective against colorectal cancer (CRC), but how it may work is unclear. Thus, we explored the underlying mechanisms of matrine in CRC. Matrine-related proteins and CRC-related genes and therapeutic targets of matrine in CRC were predicted using a network pharmacology approach. Five targets, including interleukin 6 (IL-6), the 26S proteasome, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) and p53, and corresponding high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) signaling and T helper cell differentiation were thought to be associated with matrine's mechanism. Expression of predicted serum targets were verified in a 1,2-dimethylhydrazine dihydrochloride-induced CRC model rats that were treated with matrine (ip) for 18 weeks. Data show that matrine suppressed CRC growth and decreased previously elevated expression of IL-6, TNF-α, p53, and HMGB1. Matrine may have had a therapeutic effect on CRC via inhibition of HMGB1 signaling, and this occurred through downregulation of IL-6, TNF-α, and HMGB1.

Regulation of autophagy inhibition and inflammatory response in glioma by Wnt signaling pathway

The objective of this study was to investigate the mechanism of the function of Wnt signaling pathway in regulating autophagy and inflammatory response in glioma cells. Human brain glioma cells U118 were selected and divided into three groups: i) the Wnt signaling inhibitor IWR-1 group (the observation group); ii) the PBS negative control group (the PBS group) and iii) the blank control group. After 24 h culture, Wnt5a/β-catenin protein, autophagy marker, microtubule-associated-proteins-1A1B-light-chain-3C (LC-3) II and Beclin I, and inflammatory factors IL-6 and TNF-α protein expression levels were evaluated using western blotting. Compared with both control groups, Wnt5a/β-catenin, IL-6 and TNF-α protein expression levels were significantly lower, and LC-3II and Beclin I protein expression levels were significantly higher in the observation group. In conclusion, Wnt5a/β-catenin signaling pathway regulates autophagy and inflammatory response of glioma cells.

Anti-inflammatory effect of miltirone on inflammatory bowel disease via TLR4/NF-κB/IQGAP2 signaling pathway

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by a radical imbalance in the activation of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory signaling pathways in the gut. This study was conducted to evaluate the anti-inflammation effect of miltirone against IBD in vitro and in vivo, and try to explore the underlying mechanisms. Miltirone could extenuate the loss of colon length and weight caused by TNBS. Additionally, macroscopic scores and DAI were reduced significantly compared with the TNBS group. The levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-8 were increased significantly with the induction by TNBS (100mg/kg) or LPS (0.5mg/mL). Interestingly, miltirone could down-regulate the levels of these increased pro-inflammatory factors in a dose-dependent manner both in vivo and in vitro. The protein and mRNA expressions of TLR4, MyD88, NF-κB p65 were up-regulated by TNBS or LPS stimulation. CRX-526, the TLR4 inhibitor, as well as miltirone could significantly suppress the increased protein and mRNA expressions. Miltirone could up-regulate the descreased IQGAP2 expression induced by LPS. All these revealed that the anti-inflammatory effect of miltirone on IBD may be via regulating TLR4/NF-κB/IQGAP2 signaling pathway. The findings might supply beneficial hints for the drug research to cure the IBD.