TNF-α, TNF-β and IL-10 gene polymorphism and association with oral lichen planus risk in Saudi patients

TNF-alfa Gene Polymorphism Associations with Multiple Sclerosis

Background:TNF-α has a dual role in multiple sclerosis (MS), contributing to both protective and harmful effects. It activates immune cells, promotes the formation of inflammatory lesions in the central nervous system, and stimulates the production of other pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, leading to myelin destruction and neuronal damage. Our research focused on investigating the relationship between TNF-alpha (rs1800630, rs1800629, and rs361525) gene polymorphisms and MS. Methods: 250 healthy controls and 250 multiple sclerosis (MS) patients were included in the study. DNA was extracted from leucocytes from peripheral venous blood by salt precipitation. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were tested using RT-PCR. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 29.0 data analysis software. Results: The analysis revealed that the rs361525 AG genotype was significantly less frequent in the MS group compared to the control group (4.0% vs. 7.2%, p = 0.042). Sex-specific analysis showed a significant difference in genotype distribution (GG, AG, AA) among males between the MS group and the control group (97.7%, 0%, 2.3% vs. 90.6%, 9.4%, 0%, p = 0.005). For the rs1800629 polymorphism, significant results were also found. In subjects younger than 39 years, the A allele was significantly less frequent in the MS group than in the control group (8.6% vs. 15.0%, p = 0.030). The most robust model indicated that the AA genotype reduced the odds of MS by approximately 2 fold compared to the AG + GG genotype (p = 0.044), and each A allele reduced the odds of MS by approximately 2 fold (p = 0.028). The rs1800630 A allele was significantly more common in males in the MS group than in the control group (21.0% vs. 12.9%, p = 0.046). Conclusions: In conclusion, our study identifies significant associations between TNF-alpha gene variants and MS. Specifically, the rs631525 AG genotype was less common in the MS group, with notable sex-specific differences observed. The rs1800629 A allele was statistically significantly less frequent in the MS group than in the control group, and the AA genotype reduced the odds of MS occurrence by ~2 fold compared with the AG + GG genotypes. Additionally, each A allele of rs1800629 was linked to a 2-fold decreased odds of MS occurrence. In males, the rs1800630 A allele was more frequent in the MS group. These findings highlight the relevance of TNF-alpha genetic variations in MS susceptibility, suggesting potential avenues for further research and therapeutic exploration.

Effects of tumor necrosis factor-α rs1800629 and interleukin-10 rs1800872 genetic variants on type 2 diabetes mellitus susceptibility and metabolic parameters among Jordanians

OBJECTIVES

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a complex chronic illness with diverse pathogenesis and associations with health complications. Genetic factors significantly contribute to DM development, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-10 (IL-10) genes play major roles. This study aims to explore the influence of TNF-α rs1800629 and IL-10 rs1800872 genetic variants on T2DM development in Jordanian patients at Jordan University Hospital.

METHODS

One-hundred and 60 diabetic and 159 non-diabetic subjects were genotyped for TNF-α rs1800629. Additionally, 181 diabetic and 191 non-diabetic subjects were genotyped for IL-10 rs1800872 using PCR-RFLP genotyping method. The demographic, lipid, and glycemic parameters of the patients were obtained from the computer records in the hospital.

RESULTS

TNF-α rs1800629 and IL-10 rs1800872 genetic variants exhibited significant different frequencies in non-T2DM subjects and T2DM patients. The difference in TNF-α rs1800629 genotype frequency between non-T2DM and T2DM participants was significant under the dominant model, while the IL-10 rs1800872 genotype frequency was significant under the recessive model. A significant association (p<0.05) was observed between TNF-α rs1800629 and total cholesterol levels, and between IL-10 rs1800872 polymorphism and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and creatinine levels among T2DM patients.

CONCLUSIONS

TNF-α rs1800629 and IL-10 rs1800872 are identified as genetic risk factors for T2DM. These variants also correlate with variations in cholesterol, HbA1c, and creatinine levels among T2DM patients. Larger clinical studies are warranted to validate these findings.

Assessment of TNF-α (-857 C/T) gene polymorphism in oral lichen planus disease: A case-control study

Background and aims

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is an inflammatory mucocutaneous disorder with an immune-mediated pathogenesis. The tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) level in the serum of OLP patients is significantly higher than in the control group. TNF-α-857 C/T polymorphism can be related to the increased TNF-α level in blood circulation. This study investigated the relationship between TNF-α (-857 C/T) polymorphism and OLP patients in an Iranian population.

Methods

Saliva samples were taken from 200 people, including 100 patients with OLP and 100 healthy people who did not have significant differences in age and sex. Then, DNA was extracted from them and the TNF-α (-857 C/T) genotype was identified using the polymerase chain reaction with confronting two-pair primers method. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 16 software analyzed the results.

Results

The frequency of C/C, C/T, and T/T genotypes of the TNF-α-857 C/T polymorphism in the patient group were 78%, 18%, and 4%, respectively, and in the control group were 72%, 23%, and 5%, respectively. The differences between the two groups regarding allele (χ 2  =  0.97, p  = 0.32) and genotype (χ 2  =  0.96, p  = 0.62) frequency among the studied population were insignificant.

Conclusion

This study showed that the difference in the frequency of single nucleotide polymorphism TNF-α-857 C/T polymorphism in the patient and control group had no significant relationship with the increased OLP incidence. Also, no significant association was observed between allele and genotype frequency of TNF-α (-857 C/T) with OLP subtypes.

Evaluation of the association between TNF-α-1031 T/C polymorphism with oral lichen planus disease

BACKGROUND

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a T-cell-mediated autoimmune disease that affects the epithelial cells of the oral cavity. This study was performed to investigate any possible relationship between - 1031(T/C) polymorphism (rs1799964) of the tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) gene with the risk and severity of oral lichen planus (OLP) disease among an Iranian population.

METHOD

Saliva samples were collected from 100 patients with OLP and a similar number of healthy controls (age and sex-matched). Then, DNA was extracted from the collected samples for genotyping TNF-α-1031 T/C polymorphism using the PCR-CTPP method. The results were assessed using SPSS software.

RESULTS

The findings revealed a significantly higher prevalence of the C allele in OLP patients (53%) compared to healthy controls (36%), suggesting an association between TNF-alpha gene polymorphism and OLP. A multivariate logistic regression analysis supported this finding, as the presence of the C allele was significantly associated with an increased risk of OLP [χ2 = 4.17, p = 0.04, 95% CI = 1.01-2.65, OR = 1.64]. However, our data indicated no significant association between TNF-alpha-1031 T/C gene polymorphism and OLP severity.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide the first evidence supporting a possible role of TNF-α-1031 T/C gene polymorphism in OLP susceptibility in the Iranian population. The findings of this study demonstrate a positive association between TNF-α-1031 C/T allele distribution and the risk of OLP disease in the Iranian population. Therefore, carrying the C allele may increase the susceptibility to OLP disease.

Clinicohistological Characteristics of Patients with Oral Lichenoid Mucositis: A Retrospective Study for Dental Hospital Records

Oral lichenoid mucositis (OLM) of the oral mucosa is a histological diagnosis mainly characterised by a band of inflammatory infiltrate in lamina propria and basal cell degeneration. These features describe oral lichen planus or oral lichenoid reaction. However, it could be seen in oral dysplasia. The study aimed to assess the demographics and clinicohistological characteristics of patients with OLM and their relevance to dysplastic changes in the oral mucosa. This was a cross-sectional and retrospective study of archived and electronic records of individuals with histological confirmation of OLM at King Saud University Medical City, Saudi Arabia. The descriptive and correlation assessments were used to describe the demographics and clinicohistological characteristics and their associations, respectively [p < 0.05]. The analysis included 140 records of patients with histological confirmation of OLM with a mean age of 47 (±13), and 57% (n = 81) were females. Notably, 40% of patients had at least one medical condition, mainly diabetes mellitus, 74% were asymptomatic, and 52% had lesions in the buccal mucosa. Dysplasia was seen in 18 (12%) of the 140 reviewed records. Regarding the associations between study variables, dysplastic changes were associated with the male gender [p = 0.024] and were of no significance with increased age [p = 0.594]. Moreover, having oral symptoms was associated with older age [p < 0.001], medical history of diabetes [p = 0.0132] and hypertension [p < 0.001]. The present study findings could help indicate the individuals with histologically confirmed OLM who suffer the most from the clinical disease and have an increased risk of dysplastic changes. Therefore, symptomatic management and long-term follow-up can be planned accordingly.

Association of interleukin-8 polymorphism (+ 781 C/T) with the risk of oral Lichen Planus disease

BACKGROUND

Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory mucosal disease. The pathogenesis of OLP is unknown. The Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) that occurs in the regulatory position + 781 could affect the expression of interleukin-8. This polymorphism is probably associated with increased serum levels of IL-8. The current study aimed to investigate the genotype and allele frequencies of IL-8( + 781 C/T) in OLP patients and whether it is associated with the severity of OLP disease in an Iranian population.

METHODS

Three milliliters of saliva were taken from 100 patients with OLP and 100 healthy individuals who were matched in age and gender. After DNA extraction from saliva samples of patients and healthy individuals, the genotype of IL-8 at position + 781 is detected using the PCR-RFLP method. The results were analyzed using SPSS software.

RESULTS

Frequency of C/C, T/C, and T/T genotypes at position IL-8 + 781 gene in the patient group were 47%, 41%, and 12%, respectively, and in the control group, were 37%, 42%, and 21%. The difference between the two groups regarding allele frequency distribution was statistically significant (χ² = 3.86, p = 0.049, 95% CI = 0.44-1, OR = 0.66). Our results indicated the significantly higher frequency of the TT genotype in the erosive OLP compared to the nonerosive group (p = 0.03, OR = 0.89, 95% CI = 0.49-1.6).

CONCLUSION

This study depicted the difference in the frequency of SNP IL-8 + 781 C/T allele in the patient and control groups had a significant association with the risk of OLP. In addition, our data revealed that IL-8 + 781 C/T polymorphisms might be associated with the severity of OLP in the Iranian population.

Investigating the factors proposed in oral lichen planus malignant transformation: A literature review

Background and Aims

Lichen planus is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects about 1% of the world's population. The World Health Organization has included oral lichen planus among potentially malignant disorders. Identification of reliable biomarkers for the diagnosis of malignant transformation may play a unique role in the development of standard screening and improvement of follow-up in patients with oral precancerous lesions. It is currently assumed that the molecular pathways controlling growth, maturation, proliferation, and apoptosis in epithelial cells may play an important role in the process of transformation into malignancy.

Methods

The search was done in PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Embase, and Cochrane databases from 1960 to 2022.

Results

Based on the inclusion criteria, 23 articles were included.

Conclusion

In this review of articles, 34 different biomarkers that have been investigated in studies for the possibility of malignant transformation in OLP have been studied. Among all the risk factors related to malignant transformation, most studies have been done on the role of cytokines and tumor suppressors, in fact, the chronicity of the lesion which is the result of the reaction between the repair and the inflammatory response and the responses accompanied by the secretion of cytokines, may play a major role in the malignant transformation of OLP.

The etiological effect and genetic risk of +252 A/G variant of TNF-β gene related to the susceptibility of urinary tract infection in a sample of Iraqi patients with type 2 diabetes: A case control study

Background and aim

Urinary tract infection (UTI) is the most common infection in type 2 diabetes patients. TNF-β is a cytokine with multiple functions in immunomodulatory and inflammatory mechanisms. The variation at position +252 A/G of TNF-β impacts both gene expression and plasma concentration of TNF-β proteins. The findings may shed light on the genetic factors that predispose diabetic patients in Iraq to UTIs.

Methods

A total of 200 individuals were divided into 100 patients with type 2 diabetes, categorized according to UTI, and 100 control subjects. Genetic analysis of +252 A/G of the TNF-β gene was carried out using the TaqMan probe allele discrimination method. The level of TNF-β was estimated by the ELISA technique.

Results

In the recessive model (GG vs. AA/AG) of TNF-β + 252 A/G in T2D/UTI patients compared to controls, a significant association p = 0.029 (OR: 2.8; CI 95% = 1.14-7.09): E = 15.6% was observed. Furthermore, in T2D patients without UTI, the dominant model AA versus AG/GG was associated with a preventive role P: 31.3% (OR: 0.4; CI 95% = 0.22-0.88) and a p value = (0.02). Overall, AG proportions showed a high level of TNF-β within the control group p = 0.03, while all proportions of the +252 A/G showed significant differences in TNF-β level between groups p ≤ 0.05. Pearson's correlation analysis observed a link between TNF- levels, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and HbA1c.

Conclusion

In T2D patients, the G allele may be linked to a higher probability of UTI, as well as an increased level of TNF-β in a genotype-dependent manner.

Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking Analysis Explores the Mechanisms of Cordyceps sinensis in the Treatment of Oral Lichen Planus

Objective

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is the most common potentially malignant disorder of the oral cavity. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of action of Cordyceps sinensis in the treatment of OLP and provides a theoretical support for improving current treatment regimens for OLP.

Methods

The active components and therapeutic targets of Cordyceps sinensis were predicted and screened using the TCMSP, SymMap, PubMed, HIT 2.0, and PharmMapper databases, while the relevant OLP targets were predicted and screened using the DisGeNET and GeneCards databases. Protein-protein interactions (PPI) were examined using the String database, and Cytoscape was used to combine and illustrate the findings. GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were carried out using RStudio, and AutoDock Vina and Pymol were used for molecular docking and visualization, respectively.

Results

A total of 404 potential target genes were discovered after evaluating 21 active compounds from Cordyceps sinensis. Potential therapeutic targets included 67 targets that matched and overlapped with OLP, including TNF, IL-6, CD4, EGFR, and IL1B. Key targets were predominantly engaged in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway and the MAPK signaling pathway, according to the GO and KEGG analyses. These targets have a connection to biological processes including apoptosis signaling pathway regulation, T cell activation, and oxidative stress response. The molecular docking results showed that TNF, IL-6, CD4, EGFR, and IL1B could bind to their corresponding active components.

Conclusions

Cordyceps sinensis contains multiple components and acts on multiple targets and multiple pathways. Particularly, Cordyceps sinensis targets TNF, IL-6, CD4, EGFR, and IL1B, regulates PI3K-Akt and MAPK signaling pathways, as well as takes part in biological processes including apoptosis, T cell activation, and oxidative stress. Cordyceps sinensis could be a crucial choice in the therapy of OLP.

Differential genotypes of TNF-α and IL-10 for immunological diagnosis in discoid lupus erythematosus and oral lichen planus: A narrative review

Discoid lupus erythematosus and oral lichen planus are chronic systemic immune system-mediated diseases with unclear etiology and pathogenesis. The oral mucosa is the common primary site of pathogenesis in both, whereby innate and adaptive immunity and inflammation play crucial roles. The clinical manifestations of discoid lupus erythematosus on the oral mucosa are very similar to those of oral lichen planus; therefore, its oral lesion is classified under oral lichenoid lesions. In practice, the differential diagnosis of discoid lupus erythematosus and oral lichen planus has always relied on the clinical manifestations, with histopathological examination as an auxiliary diagnostic tool. However, the close resemblance of the clinical manifestations and histopathology proves challenging for accurate differential diagnosis and further treatment. In most cases, dentists and pathologists fail to distinguish between the conditions during the early stages of the lesions. It should be noted that both are considered to be precancerous conditions, highlighting the significance of early diagnosis and treatment. In the context of unknown etiology and pathogenesis, we suggest a serological and genetic diagnostic method based on TNF-α and IL-10. These are the two most common cytokines produced by the innate and adaptive immune systems and they play a fundamental role in maintaining immune homeostasis and modulating inflammation. The prominent variability in their expression levels and gene polymorphism typing in different lesions compensates for the low specificity of current conventional diagnostic protocols. This new diagnostic scheme, starting from the immunity and inflammation of the oral mucosa, enables simultaneous comparison of discoid lupus erythematosus and oral lichen planus. With relevant supportive evidence, this information can enhance physicians’ understanding of the two diseases, contribute to precision medicine, and aid in prevention of precancerous conditions.

Rise and exacerbation of oral lichen planus in the background of SARS-CoV-2 infection

Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) is a chronic inflammatory disorder whose exact etiology remains unknown. Inflammatory mediators, cytotoxic CD8+ T cells and mast cells have been hypothesized to mediate the pathogenesis of OLP. COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 is marked by cytokine storms in the affected patients. Altered T-cell responses marked by exhaustion of T-cell count with hyperaggressive remaining T-cells and presence of cross-reactive antibodies render infected humans as fertile grounds for development of multisystem disorders. In addition, Vitamin D deficiency in COVID-19 patients can further modify the T cell mediated immunity. Increased circulating cytokines and hyperactive CD8+ T cells can alter the oral immune barriers rendering them susceptible to oral disorders. Due to the widespread immune dysregulation, it is possible that patients of COVID-19 may develop OLP in the aftermath or during recovery. The paper explores the pathogenic mechanism behind development OLP as post-COVID condition on account of their target receptor, T-cell responses, cytokine profile, mucosal immune barriers and nutrition deficiency.

Genetic polymorphism of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and tumor necrosis factor beta (TNF-β) genes and risk of oral pre-cancer and cancer in North Indian population

OBJECTIVE

There are inconclusive data connecting single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of TNF-α (rs361525) and TNF-β (rs909253) to potential malignant oral disorder (PMOD) such as lichen planus and oral fibrosis. Here, we have investigated the risk of oral squamous cell carcinoma as well as oral pre-cancerous lesions in North Indian population with the polymorphism of the TNFα/ β genes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total 500 patients with oral pre-cancer and OSCC and 500 healthy volunteers were genotypes for the TNF-α (-238) G/A (rs361525) and TNF-β (252) A/G (rs909253) gene polymorphism. Genotypes were identified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Genotype frequencies were evaluated by Chi-square test.

RESULTS

Compared to the GG genotype, the GA genotype of TNF-α (G238A) polymorphism (rs361525) has been found to significantly increase the risk of oral disease (OR = 1.99) and especially the risk of lichen planus and OSCC (OR = 2.805 and 5.790, respectively). Similarly, the risk of oral disease was also more in the heterozygote (AG) than the common allele homozygote (AA) of TNF-β (A252G) polymorphism (rs909253) (OR = 1.483).

CONCLUSION

We conclude that the SNPs rs361525 and rs909253 were significantly associated with oral pre-cancer and OSCC.

[Gene polymorphism in oral lichen planus]

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the oral mucosa. The prevalence rate of OLP in adults is 0.5%-2%. The etiology and pathogenesis of OLP are still unclear. The pathogenesis of OLP may be related to the genetic polymorphism of some genes. Currently, the gene families, including tumor necrosis factor, interferon, interleukin, enzyme, and receptor, have been extensively studied. This work reviews related studies on gene polymorphism of OLP.

Polymorphisms in proinflammatory cytokines genes and susceptibility to Multiple Sclerosis

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). It is immunologically induced in genetically susceptible individuals. Proinflammatory cytokines play an important role as genetic polymorphisms in their genes might be involved in the susceptibility and pathogenesis of MS.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, our goal was to analyze the association between the gene polymorphisms in interleukin-16 (IL-16) (rs4072111 C/T), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) -308 G/A (rs1800629 G/A) and IL-18 -607 C/A (rs1946518 C/A) and the susceptibility and clinical features of MS in an Egyptian cohort.

METHODS

We genotyped these genetic polymorphisms in 150 subjects including 93 patients with MS and 57 unrelated healthy subjects. We employed polymerase chain reaction- restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method for determining the IL-16 (rs4072111 C/T) and TNF-α -308 G/A (rs1800629 G/A) polymorphisms, and the allele- specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR) method for IL-18-607 C/A (rs1946518 C/A) polymorphism.

RESULTS

The IL-16 (rs4072111 C/T) polymorphism was not polymorphic in both MS patients and the healthy volunteers. For the TNF-α-308 G/A (rs1800629 G/A) polymorphism, the mutant AA genotype and A allele are not associated with the susceptibility of MS, however, associated with the severity and disability progression of the disease. We observed a statistically significant increase in the mean values of Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) in patients with AA genotype and A allele compared with those of genotypes GG and GA, and the G allele, and regression analysis confirmed that this polymorphism is a predictor of disease disability using EDSS. For the IL-18 -607 C/A (rs1946518 C/A) polymorphism, the frequency of mutant AA genotype and A allele showed significant differences between the MS patients and healthy controls.

CONCLUSION

The TNF-α-308 AA genotype and A allele could be related to disability progression and severity of MS and the IL-18-607 AA genotype A allele could be related to susceptibility of the disease in the Egyptian cohort.

Gene polymorphism associated with TNF-α (G308A) IL-6 (C174G) and susceptibility to coronary atherosclerotic heart disease: A meta-analysis

To evaluate the association between gene polymorphisms of TNF-α G308A, IL-6 C174G, and coronary atherosclerotic heart disease (CHD) risk.We used computers to collect related case-control studies. After screening, a meta-analysis was conducted to assess the strength of association by Stata 12.0 software.Thirty-five articles were included. Among them, 17 studies were related to TNF-α (G308A) gene mutation and CHD, and 18 studies examined IL-6 (C174G) gene mutation. According to the results of subgroup analysis of ethnicity, it suggested that TNF-α (G308A) polymorphism was not significantly associated with CHD risk under all models in Asians (P > .05). There were no connected of IL-6 C174G polymorphism with CHD risk under all models in Caucasians after subgroup analysis (P > .05).The present evidence shows that TNF-α (G308A) have no connected with the risk of CHD in Asians; IL-6 (C174G) gene were not associated with the risk of CHD in Caucasians.

Potential pathogenic mechanisms involved in the association between lichen planus and hepatitis C virus infection

Lichen planus (LP) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease that particularly affects the skin and mucous membranes. Its etiology remains elusive, however some trigger factors, including viral or bacterial antigens, drugs and metals, have been postulated. There is a higher prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among patients with LP, with some geographical variations. HCV is an enveloped RNA virus that belongs to the Flaviviridae family and in most instances causes chronic liver infections. It has been hypothesized that HCV may contribute to LP development, but the link between the two disorders is not fully understood. It is still debatable whether HCV leads to the occurrence of LP lesions directly by replication inside the infected cells or indirectly by activating immunological pathways. Molecular studies have revealed HCV RNA in specimens collected from patients with LP. The autoimmune theory was also suggested given that several studies have revealed viral replication and immune response activation associated with autoantibody synthesis. The aim of this review is to summarize the main potential mechanisms involved in the association between LP and HCV infection. Understanding the link between the two disorders may shed some light on the pathogenesis of LP, which is a challenging issue.

Cytokine Gene Polymorphisms in Saudi Patients With Atopic Dermatitis: A Case-Control Study

The cause of atopic dermatitis (AD) is multifactorial and a number of genes including cytokines have been involved. We genotyped 315 subjects for polymorphisms in TNF-α and TNF-β and IL-10 genes. Patients had significantly higher frequency of GA genotype of TNF-α (−308 G/A) than healthy controls. Patients with AD and controls had similar distribution of A and G alleles. Genotype AA was found in 7.11% of controls while completely absent in cases. The frequencies of genotypes GG and AA of TNF-β (+252 A/G) polymorphism were higher whereas the frequency of genotype GA was significantly lower in patients than the controls. The frequencies of genotypes GG and AA of IL-10 (1082 G/A) polymorphism were significantly increased whereas genotype GA was decreased in patients than the controls. It is concluded that TNF-α (−308 G/A), TNF-β (+252 A/G), and IL-10 (−1082 G/A) polymorphisms are linked with the susceptibility of AD in Saudis and can be a risk factor.

Association between TNFα - 308 G/A polymorphism and oral lichen planus (OLP): a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha (TNFα) -308 G/A polymorphism is associated with oral lichen planus (OLP).

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A systematic electronic search of the literature was conducted to identify all published studies on the association between TNFα -308 G/A polymorphism and OLP. All case-control studies evaluating the TNFα -308 G/A polymorphisms in OLP were selected. A meta-analysis of the studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria was performed. Odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were also calculated.

RESULTS

Seven studies comprising 450 OLP cases and 867 controls were included in the meta-analysis. In the pooled analysis, TNFα -308 G/A polymorphism was associated with OLP with random effects and OR of 2.33 (95%CI=1.07-5.11; p=0.03), assuming a dominant mode of inheritance (AA+GA vs. GG). In the subgroup analysis by ethnicity, TNFα -308 G/A was associated with a significantly increased odds ratio of OLP in mixed ethnicity (OR=5.22; 95%CI=1.93-14.15; p=0.001), but not in Asians (OR=1.57; 95%CI=0.54-4.54; p=0.41) or Caucasians (OR=1.45; 95%CI=0.19-11.22; p=0.72). For subgroup analysis based on HCV (hepatitis C virus) infection status, significant increased risk of OLP was found among patients with mixed HCV infection status (OR=3.77; 95%CI=1.07-13.2; p=0.038), but not in patients without HCV infection (OR=2.09; 95%CI=0.63-6.91; p=0.22) and patients with HCV infection (OR=0.48; 95%CI=0.13-1.69; p=0.25).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that -308 G/A polymorphism in TNFα is a potential genetic marker for OLP.

Salivary and serum levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in oral lichen planus: a systematic review and meta-analysis study

OBJECTIVE

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) has a role in the progression of the oral lichen planus (OLP). The aim of this meta-analysis study was to evaluate the salivary and serum TNF-α levels in patients with OLP.

STUDY DESIGN

We searched in the databases of PubMed/Medline, Science direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library for studies reported from 1983 to 2016. All studies were checked for evaluation of salivary and serum levels of TNF-α in patients with OLP compared with healthy controls.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included in the meta-analysis. The mean difference of 7 studies reporting salivary TNF-α levels in patients with OLP versus healthy controls was 25.90 pg/mL (95% confidence interval [CI] 15.31-36.49; P < .00001) and 7 studies reporting serum TNF-α levels was 1.65 pg/mL (95% CI -0.82 to 4.11; P = .19).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with OLP, the higher levels of TNF-α in saliva compared with serum suggest that measurement of this marker in saliva may be more useful than in serum for determining diagnostic and therapeutic aims.

Association between polymorphisms in interleukins and oral lichen planus: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

More and more studies have suggested that single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in interleukin (IL) genes are correlated with an increased risk of developing oral lichen planus (OLP). However, these results were inconsistent. Therefore, the aim of this meta-analysis is to retrieve and comprehensively analyze all related clinical studies to investigate the association of ILs gene polymorphisms with the OLP risk.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for eligible studies to evaluate the association between IL polymorphisms and the OLP. The odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) from each study were pooled to estimate the strength of the association. Statistical analyses were performed by using STATA software.

RESULTS

In all 6 studies, including 4 SNPs (IL6-174G/C, IL10-592C/A, IL10-819C/T, and IL10-1082G/A), 362 OLP patients and 622 non-OLP control subjects from five different countries were investigated. As for the IL6-174G/C, IL10-819C/T, and IL10-1082G/A, no evidence was found to support the association between SNP and OLP susceptibility in any genetic models. However, as for IL10-592C/A, a significant relationship between them was identified in all of comparison models (C vs A: OR = 0.724, 95% CI = 0.585-0.897, P = 0.003; CC vs AA: OR = 0.447, 95% CI = 0.276-0.722, P = 0.001; AC vs AA: OR = 0.585, 95% CI = 0.387-0.883, P = 0.011; CC+AC vs AA: OR = 0.544, 95% CI = 0.365-0.809, P = 0.003; CC vs AA+AC: OR = 0.715, 95% CI = 0.515-0.994, P = 0.046).

CONCLUSION

With the presently available evidence, this meta-analysis fails to show the statistical associations between IL6-174G/C, IL10-819C/T, and IL10-1082G/A and OLP susceptibility in any genetic models. However, the A allele and AA genotype in IL10-592C/A polymorphism may increase the risk of OLP. In the future, more well-designed studies with larger sample sizes are needed.

The significance and occurrence of TNF receptor polymorphisms in the Saudi population

Background and objective: On the basis that the inflammatory effects of TNF (tumour necrosis factor) are predominantly mediated through interaction with the TNF receptor-1 (TNFRSF1A), the current study was designed to establish the prevalence of the mutations, R92Q and P46L TNFRSF1A polymorphisms both in the general healthy Saudi population, and in Saudi patients carrying inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis or rheumatoid arthritis. We felt it important to report the frequency of the mutations, R92Q and P46L TNFRSF1A polymorphisms in healthy Saudi individuals, and those with inflammatory conditions, as well as to describe the pattern of immunological factors in individuals expressing R92Q or P46L TNFRSF1A. Patients and methods: We collected in PAX gene blood RNA tubes (for RT-PCR and sequencing) 500 blood samples from normal healthy individuals from the West and Center of Saudi Arabia, as well as 100 from patients with atherosclerosis, and 100 patients diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. All were screened for the levels of soluble TNF, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin6 (IL-6) and sTNFR1. In addition, they were screened for R92Q and P46L TNFRSF1A by RT-PCR. Moreover, phenotype and expression of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was performed by flow cytometry (FACS). Results: Across 500 normal individuals, 8 (1.6%) expressed both R92Q and P46L mutations. By contrast, of the 100 patients in our study with atherosclerosis, 34% expressed both the R92Q and P46L mutations, whilst 42% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis expressed both mutations R92Q and P46L. No significant differences were observed between cell markers of normal individuals (CD3, 4, 8, 16, 56, 19, 25, ICAM-1, VLA-4 & l-selectin) and patients with atherosclerosis. There were significantly high values of cell markers in patients with rheumatoid arthritis compared with normal individuals both in terms of percentage and absolute counts (p < 0.05). Soluble IL-6 and sTNFR1 showed significant decreases in atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis when compared with controls (p < 0.05). In addition, CRP and sTNF showed significant increases in the atherosclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis groups when compared to controls (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Our findings reasonably anticipate the presence of TRAPS disease (low penetrance mutations) amongst the Saudi population although further studies are needed to confirm these results.

Genetic Association for P2X7R rs3751142 and CARD8 rs2043211 Polymorphisms for Susceptibility of Gout in Korean Men: Multi-Center Study

The aim of this study was to determine the association between P2X7R rs3751142 and CARD8 rs2043211 polymorphisms and gout susceptibility in male Korean subjects. This study enrolled a total of 242 male patients with gout and 280 healthy controls. The polymorphisms of two individual genes including rs3751142(C>A) in the P2X7R gene and rs2043211(A>T) in the CARD8 gene were assessed using Taq-Man analysis. Statistical analyses were performed using the Chi-square test, Kruskal-Wallis test, and logistic regression analyses. A difference in genotypic frequency of the P2X7R rs3751142 and CARD8 rs2043211 genes was not detected between gout and control patients. Clinical parameters including age, onset age, disease duration, body mass index, and serum uric acid levels were not different among the three genotypes for either P2X7R or CARD8 (P > 0.05 for all). A pair-wise comparison of P2X7R rs3751142 and CARD8 rs2043211 genotype combinations revealed that subjects with the CA P2X7R rs3751142 genotype and the TT CARD8 rs2043211 genotype had a trend toward a higher risk of gout compared to the CC/AA combination (P = 0.056, OR = 2.618, 95% CI 0.975 - 7.031). In conclusion, this study revealed that genetic variability of the P2X7R rs3751142 and CARD8 rs2043211 genes might, in part, be associated with susceptibility for gout.

Association of genetic polymorphisms in interferon-γ, interleukin-6 and transforming growth factor-β1 gene with oral lichen planus susceptibility

BACKGROUND

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a premalignant mucocutaneous disease in which genetic factors and immune responses play a major role. Cytokines play an important role in the pathogenesis and disease progression of OLP. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of gene polymorphisms of T helper cell subtype Th1 and Th2 cytokines, interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 on OLP susceptibility in a Saudi cohort.

METHODS

Forty two unrelated patients with OLP and 195 healthy controls were genotyped for IFN-γ (874A/T), IL-6 (174G/C) and TGF-β1 (509C/T) polymorphisms.

RESULTS

The frequency of genotype AT of IFN-γ (874A/T) was significantly higher while genotype AA was lower in OLP patients as compared to controls (P < 0.05). The frequency of T containing genotypes (AT + TT) was also higher in OLP patients as compared to that in controls (P = 0.003). The frequencies of allele T was higher while that of allele A lower in patients than the controls however the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.07). There was no significant difference in the frequencies of alleles and genotypes of IL-6 (174G/C) and TGF-β1 (509C/T) polymorphisms between patient and control groups. These results indicated that genotype AT of IFN-γ (874A/T) polymorphism is associated with OLP risk and genotype AA is protective to OLP. On the other hand the polymorphisms IL-6 (174G/C) and TGF-β1 (509C/T) may not be associated with OLP risk in our population.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that IFN-γ (874A/T) polymorphism is associated with the susceptibility of OLP, however further studies with large sample size involving different ethnic populations should be conducted to strengthen our results.

Clinical characteristics and analysis of familial oral lichen planus in eight Chinese families

Oral lichen planus (OLP) is one of the most common oral mucosa diseases; however, familial OLP is uncommon. The present study reported and analyzed patients with familial OLP (n=18) in eight different Chinese families between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2013. Parameters analyzed include gender, age at diagnosis, lesion distribution and lesion type. The follow-up period for each patient was a minimum of 1 year. In this survey, 18/88 individuals in the eight families were affected. Females were more frequently affected, and the female to male ratio for familial OLP (2.2:1) was higher compared with that previously reported for nonfamilial OLP (1.4:1). The age at diagnosis, lesion distribution and lesion type showed consistency with reports concerning nonfamilial OLP, with the exception of family VI, in which 4/5 children had OLP/LP lesions and were of an early age at diagnosis. There were two families in which three generations had been affected by OLP. In addition, it appeared that patients of the same generation in the same family were of a similar age at diagnosis. No malignant or premalignant lesion was identified in the 18 individuals diagnosed with OLP from the eight families. The present study supports the hypothesis that genetic predisposition may serve a role in the etiology of OLP.