PON-1 haplotype (-108C>T, L55M, and Q192R) modulates the serum levels and activity PONase promoting an atherogenic lipid profile in rheumatoid arthritis patients

INTRODUCTION/OBJECTIVE

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) promotes antioxidant and antiatherogenic activity related to the hydrolysis of oxidized lipids of low-density lipoproteins. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, it has been reported that low PON1 activity is related to an impaired lipid profile, increasing cardiovascular risk (CVR). The goal of this study was to analyze the effect of common PON1 polymorphisms and haplotypes on enzymatic activity, PON1 serum levels (PON1s), and lipid parameters related to atherogenic profile in RA patients.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was carried out on 250 Mexican patients with RA. The lipid profile was determined by colorimetric tests. The PON1 activity (CMPAase) was measured by spectrophotometry. The levels of PON1s were determined by ELISA, and the polymorphisms in the PON-1 gene (-108C>T, L55M, and Q192R) were genotyped by the PCR-RFLP method. The haplotypes were estimated and statistical analysis was performed.

RESULTS

The median of the CMPAase activity and PON1 levels was 13.91 U/mL and 24.75 ng/mL, respectively. The CMPAase activity was significantly lower in carriers of -108TT and 192QQ genotypes (β = - 4.09, P = 0.001 and β = - 3.73, P = 0.002, respectively); moreover, the PON1 levels were lower in 192Q allele carriers (P < 0.01). The TLQ haplotype was associated with CMPAase activity < 13.91 U/mL (OR = 2.29, P < 0.001), as well as with levels of PON1s < 24.75 ng/mL (OR = 1.65, P = 0.017). In this study, the CMPAase activity (< 13.91 U/mL) showed a positive association with lower levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c; < 40/50 mg/dL), and with a triglycerides/HDL-c ratio > 3%, and a total cholesterol/HDL-c ratio > 4.5/5%, all representatives of an atherogenic risk lipid profile.

CONCLUSIONS

PON1 polymorphisms modulate the CMPAase activity and PON1 levels in Mexican patients with RA. The CMPAase activity < 13.91 U/mL is associated with an atherogenic lipid profile, independently of inflammation markers and treatment with anti-rheumatic drugs. Key Points •The haplotype TLQ is a marker for low PONase activity in rheumatoid arthritis. •The haplotype TLQ is a marker for low PON1 serum levels in rheumatoid arthritis. •The enzymatic PON1 activity represents the best marker for an atherogenic lipid profile in rheumatoid arthritis, in comparison with PON1 levels. •The haplotype TLQ is a marker of low PON1 activity, levels of PON1s, and atherogenic lipid profile, independent of treatment therapy in rheumatoid arthritis.

Association between interleukin-1 receptor associated kinase 1 rs3027898 A/C gene polymorphism and rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease predominantly involving the synovial joints and affects up to 1% of adults worldwide. The aim of the present study was to determine whether the interleukin-1 receptor (IL1R)-associated kinase (IRAK1) rs3027898 gene polymorphism confers susceptibility to RA in a sample of patients from Iran. This gene encodes IRAK1, one of two putative serine/threonine kinases that associates with IL1R upon stimulation. IRAK1 is partially responsible for IL-1-induced upregulation of the transcription factor, nuclear factor-κB. The present case-control study was performed on 120 patients with RA and 120 healthy individuals. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood, and the gene polymorphism was evaluated using a tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction method. The results demonstrated that there was no association between IRAK1 rs3027898 CA genotype and the risk of RA in women (odds ratio=0.72, 95% confidence interval=0.41-1.49; P=0.446). Further studies with larger sample sizes and different ethnicities are required to validate the present findings.

Lectin, galactoside-binding, soluble, 3 rs4652 A/C gene variation and the risk for rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a complex genetic disease. The lectin, galactoside-binding, soluble, 3 (LGALS3) gene, encodes a member of the galectin family of carbohydrate binding proteins, and is one of the best examples of a non-human leukocyte antigen gene associated with a risk for RA in various populations. In the current study, the association between LGALS3 rs4652 gene polymorphism and RA was examined. This case-control study was performed on the 120 patients with RA and 120 healthy subjects. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood, and gene polymorphism was tested using a tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction. The results demonstrated that LGALS3 rs4652 AC genotype increased the risk of RA (OR=11.622, 95% CI=4.473-28.656; P=0.001) when compared with the AA genotype. However, the CC genotype and the C allele were not associated with RA. These findings indicated an association between LGALS3 rs4652 variation and the risk of RA in a sample of Iranian individuals. Further studies with larger sample sizes and populations of different ethnicities are required to validate our findings.

Evaluation of HLA-G 14 bp Ins/Del and +3142G>C Polymorphism with Susceptibility and Early Disease Activity in Rheumatoid Arthritis

Purpose/Background. Mounting evidence designates that HLA-G plays a role in the regulation of inflammatory processes and autoimmune diseases. There are controversial reports concerning the impact of HLA-G gene polymorphism on rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study was aimed at examining the impact of 14 bp ins/del and +3142G>C polymorphism with susceptibility and early disease activity in RA patients in a sample of the Iranian population. Methods. This case-control study was done on 194 patients with RA and 158 healthy subjects. The HLA-G rs1063320 (+3142G>C) and rs66554220 (14 bp ins/del) variants were genotype by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFP) and PCR method, respectively. Results. The HLA-G +3142G>C polymorphism significantly decreased the risk of RA in codominant (OR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.38-0.97, p = 0.038, GC versus GG; OR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.14-0.92, p = 0.034, CC versus GG), dominant (OR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.36-0.87, p = 0.011, GC + CC versus GG), and allele (OR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.41-0.84, p = 0.004, C versus G) inheritance models tested. Our finding did not support an association between HLA-G 14 bp ins/del variant and risk/protection of RA. In addition, no significant association was found between the polymorphism and early disease activity. Conclusion. In summary, our results showed that HLA-G +3142G>C gene polymorphism significantly decreased the risk of RA in a sample of the Iranian population.

Lack of Association between Interleukin-18 –607 C/A Gene Polymorphism and Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Zahedan, Southeast Iran

Interleukin-18 (IL-18) plays a critical role in immune response, contributing to the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of infectious diseases. Polymorphisms in the IL-18 genes are known to influence expression levels and may be associated with outcome of infections. The objective of this study was to determine whether the presence of IL-18 polymorphisms –607 A/C (rs1946518) was associated with tuberculosis disease. We investigated the functional polymorphism of IL-18 (rs1946518) in 174 patients with pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) and 177 healthy subjects. Genotype analysis was done using tetra amplification refractory mutation system-PCR (T-ARMS-PCR). The allelic and genotypic frequencies of the IL-18 polymorphism did not differ significantly between PTB and the controls. Our finding suggests that IL-18 polymorphism (rs1946518) may not be a risk factor for susceptibility to tuberculosis in a sample of Iranian population. Further studies are required to validate our findings.

TIRAP rs8177374 gene polymorphism increased the risk of pulmonary tuberculosis in Zahedan, southeast Iran

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the possible association between Toll-interleukin 1 receptor (TIR) domain containing adaptor protein (TIRAP; also known as MAL) rs1893352 and rs8177374 (S180L) gene polymorphisms and pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) in a sample of Iranian population.

METHODS

This case-control study was performed on 174 PTB and 177 healthy subjects. Tetra amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (T-ARMS-PCR) was used to detect the polymorphisms.

RESULTS

Our finding showed that neither the overall Chi-square comparison of PTB and control subjects nor the logistic regression analysis indicated any association between rs1893352 polymorphism and PTB. Regarding rs8177374 polymorphism, the CT genotype as well as CT+TT increased the risk of PTB in comparison with CC genotype (OR=4.73, 95% CI=2.65-8.45, P<0.0001 and OR=6.47, 95% CI=3.68-11.38, P<0.0001, respectively). The rs8177374 T allele increased the risk of PTB in comparison with C allele (OR=4.21, 95% CI=2.43-7.26, P<0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our finding indicates that TIRAP rs8177374 polymorphism is associated with PTB in a sample of Iranian population.

Association between butyrylcholinesterase activity and phenotypes, paraoxonase192 rs662 gene polymorphism and their enzymatic activity with severity of rheumatoid arthritis: correlation with systemic inflammatory markers and oxidative stress, preliminary report

OBJECTIVES

Evidences indicate that oxidative stress and inflammation are important processes in the development of destructive synovial tissue in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The two major bioscavenger enzymes that are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress are human-butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) and paraoxonase-1 (PON-1). Thus, the objective of this study was to determine the relation of BuChE phenotypes and PON-1 Q192R polymorphism with inflammatory markers such as anti-cytroline circulated peptide (CCP)-antibodies, CRP, neopterin, DAS28-CRP in RA patients.

DESIGN AND METHODS

In this study, we examined association of BuChE-phenotypes and activity, PON192rs662 (Q192R) polymorphism and its arylesterase activity (ARE) with systemic-inflammatory-markers and oxidative stress. The present case-control study consisted of 419-RA patients and 398 gender-age-matched unrelated healthy controls from west population of Iran. PON192rs662 polymorphism was detected by real-time-PCR. BuChE phenotype, TAC level, serum BuChE and ARE activities were determined spectrophotometrically. Anti-CCP-antibody and CRP were measured by ELISA and neopterin level was detected by HPLC. We used the EULAR activity criteria to measure DAS28-CRP.

RESULTS

We found that PON-1-Q192R was associated with severity of RA [remission-to-low and moderate-to-high in dominant Q/Q+Q/R vs. R/R: OR=2.27, p<0.001; codominant Q/Q vs. R/R: OR=1.65, p<0.001 and Q/R vs. R/R: OR=2.12, p=0.003; recessive Q/Q vs. R/R+Q/R: OR=1.79, p=0.032; and allele Q vs. R: OR=1.68, p<0.001] and presence of anti-CCP-antibody (codominant model Q/Q vs. R/R: OR=1.28, p=0.042). The carriers of Q/Q genotype PON-1-Q192R and BuChE non-UU-phenotype had higher ARE activity, serum levels of neopterin, anti-CCP antibody titer and number of tender-joint and lower activity of BuChE and serum level of TAC than that of R/R genotype and BuChE-UU-phenotype.

CONCLUSIONS

The current findings demonstrate for the first time that there is a link between systemic inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, the PON192rs662-Q allele and BuChE-non-UU-phenotype and their corresponding enzymatic activity which may be considered as a risk factor for the severity of RA for a population in Iran.

Investigation of FGF1 and FGFR gene polymorphisms in a group of Iranian patients with nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate

OBJECTIVE

Nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NS-CL/P) is one of the most common craniofacial malformations determined by the interaction between multiple genes and environmental risk factors. Genes coding for fibroblast growth factors and their receptors (FGF/FGFR genes) are considered as excellent candidate genes, which their proteins play important roles in craniofacial and palatal development. The aim of the current study was to assess the possible association between FGF1 rs34010 C>A and FGFR1 rs13317 A>G gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to NS-CL/P in an Iranian population.

DESIGN

This case-control retrospective study was performed on a total of 200 subjects including 100 NS-CL/P patients and 100 healthy unrelated controls. Tetra amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (T-ARMS-PCR) was used to detect FGF1 rs34010 C>A and FGFR1 rs13317 A>G SNPs.

RESULTS

Our data demonstrated that the FGF1 rs34010, CA and CA+AA genotypes were associated with a reduced risk of NS-CL/P the in codominant (CA vs. CC: OR=0.29, 95%CI=0.16-0.55, P=0.001) and dominant (CA+AA vs. CC: OR=0.36, 95%CI=0.19-0.69, P=0.001) tested inheritance models, respectively. Additionally, the analysis of FGF1/FGFR1 genotype combinations revealed that rs34010CA/rs13317AA and rs34010CA/rs13317AG combinations were associated with a lower risk of NS-CL/P (OR=0.357, P=0.008 for the rs34010CA/rs13317AA; OR=0.226, P=0.004 for the rs34010CA/rs13317AG).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the FGF1 rs34010 C/A polymorphism was associated with a decreased risk of NS-CL/P, and might act as a protective factor against NS-CL/P predisposition.

Synergistic effects of BuChE non-UU phenotype and paraoxonase (PON1) 55 M allele on the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus: influence on lipid and lipoprotein metabolism and oxidative stress, preliminary report

There is some evidence indicating lipid peroxidation can affect progression of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and glomerulonephritis in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Human butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) are two major bioscavenger enzymes that are associated with inflammation, oxidative stress and lipid metabolism. Hyperlipidemia, increase in lipid oxidation reactions and defects in antioxidant status may lead to increased oxidative stress and high frequency of CVDs in SLE. It has also been suggested that deficiency in the function of the antioxidant system and an increase in reactive oxygen release (ROS) may play an important role in the pathogenesis of SLE. This study is the first investigation to examine the association of BuChE phenotypes, PON1 (L55M; PON-55-M) polymorphism, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), neopterin, lipid-lipoprotein and activities of BuChE and arylesterase activity (ARE) of PON with severity of SLE.

The present case-control study consisted of 109 SLE patients and 101 gender- and age-matched, unrelated healthy control subjects from the population of west Iran. We found that the PON-55-M allele and BuChE non-UU act synergistically to increase the risk of SLE by 2.5 times (1.03–6.7, p = 0.044). There was a significant negative correlation between severity of SLE with serum BuChE activity ( R = −0.31, p < 0.001) and positive correlation with serum neopterin level. The SLE patients with the PON-55-M (M/L + M/M) allele or with BuChE non-UU phenotype had significantly lower serum ARE and BuChE activities than those with PON-55-L/L or BuChE-UU phenotypes, respectively. In addition, their serum levels of MDA, neopterin and LDL-C were significantly elevated, suggesting that these individuals are more susceptible to CVD. However, further studies are needed to shed more light on the contribution of the M allele of PON1 and non-UU phenotypes of BuChE in the development of SLE in different ethnicities.

Evaluation of paraoxonase activity in children with nephrotic syndrome

Background

It has been proposed that reactive oxygen species (ROS) is involved in the pathogenesis of various diseases. Paraoxonase, a high-density lipoprotein associated enzyme, prevents low-density lipoproteins from oxidation.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to investigate the serum activities of paraoxonase-1 (PON-1), and aryleterase (ARE) as well as total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in children with nephrotic syndrome in acute and remission phase.

Patients and Methods

The study consisted of 20 patients in acute and remission phases and 23 healthy controls. PON-1 and ARE activities were determined spectrophotometrically using paraoxone and phenyacetate as substrate, respectively. TAC was measured using ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP).

Results

The levels of PON, ARE, and TAC were significantly lower in acute phase of nephrotic syndrome compared with the remission phase. The levels of PON, ARE and TAC increased in remission phase.

Conclusions

Our results revealed that the determination of paraoxonase activity might be a biomarker for responses to nephrotic syndrome treatment, which needs to be fully clarified.

CD226 rs763361 (Gly307Ser) polymorphism is associated with susceptibility to rheumatoid arthritis in Zahedan, southeast Iran

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease with many genetic factors predisposing to disease susceptibility. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of CD226 rs727088 and rs763361 polymorphisms and susceptibility to RA in a sample of the Iranian population.

METHODS

This case-control study was carried out on 100 patients with RA and 104 healthy subjects. The polymorphisms were determined using tetra amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction assay.

RESULTS

The rs763361 (Gly307Ser) polymorphism increased the risk of RA in codominant, dominant and recessive-tested inheritance models (odds ratio [OR] = 3.18, 95% confidence intervals [95% CI] = 1.44-7.02, P = 0.004, CC vs. TT, and OR = 1.98, 95% CI = 1.10-3.57, P = 0.023, CC vs. CT-TT, and OR = 2.61, 95% CI = 1.26-5.37, P = 0.010, CC + CT vs. TT, respectively). In addition, the rs763361 T allele increased the risk of RA (OR = 2.06, 95% CI = 1.38-3.08, P<0.001). However, no significant difference was observed among the groups regarding CD226 rs727088 polymorphism (χ2 = 3.20, P = 0.202).

CONCLUSIONS

Our finding showed that CD226 rs763361, but not rs727088, gene polymorphism increased the risk of RA in a sample of the Iranian population.

Association between CDH1 and MSX1 Gene Polymorphisms and the Risk of Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip and/or Cleft Palate in a Southeast Iranian Population

Objective

Orofacial clefts such as cleft palate (CP) and cleft lip (CL) and/or cleft palate (CL/P) are the most common congenital anomalies of the head and neck. The aims of the present study were to evaluate the possible association between CDH1 (rs11642413 and rs16260) and MSX1 (rs12532 and rs3775261) gene polymorphisms and nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or cleft palate (NS-CL/P) in a sample of the Iranian population.

Design and Setting

This case-control study was performed on 100 subjects with NS-CL/P and 100 healthy unrelated control subjects. Tetra amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction and multiplex polymerase chain reaction were used to detect the single-nucleotide polymorphisms.

Results

There was a significant difference between NS-CL/P subjects and control subjects regarding CDH1 rs16260 C > A polymorphism, and the rs16260 AC as well as the rs16260 AA genotypes were associated with NS-CL/P susceptibility (odds ratio [OR] = 3.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] =1.51 −6.00, P=.001; and OR = 8.05, 95% CI = 1.72–37.75, P=.002, respectively). No significant difference was found between the groups regarding CDH1 rs11642413 polymorphism. Although MSX1 rs3775261 polymorphism was not a risk factor for the disease, the rs12532 AG and rs12532 GG genotypes were associated with NS-CL/P risk (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.55–5.15, P=.001; and OR = 8.42, 95% CI = 2.26–31.29, P=.004, respectively).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that CDH1 and MSX1 gene polymorphisms are risk factors for susceptibility to NS-CL/P in a sample of the Iranian population. Larger studies are required to validate our findings.

Association between toll-like receptor2 Arg677Trp and 597T/C gene polymorphisms and pulmonary tuberculosis in Zahedan, Southeast Iran

Background

It is well known that toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) mediates responses of both innate and adaptive immunity to microbial pathogen, including mycobacteria. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TLR2 gene that impair its function may be associated with the development of pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible association between TLR2 Arg677Trp and 597T/C polymorphisms and PTB in a sample of Iranian population.

Materials and methods

This case–control study was performed on 174 PTB and 177 healthy subjects. Tetra amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (T-ARMS-PCR) was used to detect the SNPs.

Results

There was no significant difference in the polymorphism of Arg677Trp of the TLR2 gene among PTB and control groups (p > 0.05). The results showed that there was a significant difference between case and control groups regarding 597T/C polymorphism (χ² = 12.21, p = 0.002). The TC and CC genotypes were found to be associated with the risk of PTB (OR = 2.13, 95% CI = 1.25–3.62, p = 0.005 and OR = 4.88, 95% CI = 1.56–15.26, p = 0.007, respectively).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that 597T/C polymorphism, but not Arg677Trp polymorphism, of the TLR-2 gene is a risk factor for susceptibility to PTB in a sample of Iranian population.

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) 55 polymorphism, lipid profiles and psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is a serum high-density lipoprotein-bound enzyme with antioxidant function. It hydrolyses lipid peroxides, protecting low-density lipoproteins from oxidative modifications. Patients with psoriasis are at greater risk of oxidative stress, which is associated with abnormal plasma lipid metabolism.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, association of the PON1 55 M allele with serum arylesterase (ARE) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), lipid profiles and psoriasis was investigated.

METHODS

The present case-control study consisted of 100 patients with psoriasis with and without cardiovascular diseases (mean age 35·3 years) and 100 sex- and age-matched unrelated healthy controls (mean age 35·7 years) from the population of western Iran. The PON1 55 Met>Leu polymorphism was detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Serum ARE activity, MDA, and lipid and apolipoprotein levels were determined spectrophotometrically, by high-performance liquid chromatography and by enzyme assay, respectively.

RESULTS

The presence of the PON1 55 M allele was found to be associated with psoriasis (odds ratio = 1·96, P = 0·017). The patients with psoriasis with the PON1 M (M/L + M/M) allele had higher MDA levels (4·12 ± 0·88 vs. 2·24 ± 0·55 μmol L(-1) , P < 0·001), apolipoprotein B (APOB)/APOA1 ratio (0·91 ± 0·66 vs. 0·66 ± 0·35, P = 0·004), APOB (111 ± 38·7 vs. 88·3 ± 22·5 mg mL(-1) , P = 0·001) and lipoprotein(a) [LP(a)] (21·9 ± 18·4 vs. 15·8 ± 16·6 mg mL(-1) , P = 0·034), but lower ARE activity (39·6 ± 11 vs. 45·9 ± 11·8 U mL(-1) , P = 0·031) than the control subjects. ARE activity showed a significant positive correlation with APOA1 and a negative correlation with MDA concentration in patients with psoriasis.

CONCLUSIONS

The PON1 55 M allele is a risk factor for psoriasis. Carriers of this allele have high levels of MDA, APOB and LP(a), a high APOB/APOA1 ratio and low ARE activity. These results indicate that oxidative stress, impairment of the antioxidant system and abnormal lipid metabolism may play a role in the pathogenesis and progression of psoriasis and its related complications. These data suggest that patients with psoriasis are more susceptible to vascular diseases.

Association of PTPN22 rs2476601 and EGFR rs17337023 Gene polymorphisms and rheumatoid arthritis in Zahedan, Southeast Iran

In this study we aimed to evaluate the possible association of PTPN22 rs2476601 as well as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) rs17337023 gene polymorphism and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a sample of Iranian population. This case-control study was performed on 120 patients with RA and 120 healthy subjects. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood and PTPN22 rs2476601 and EGFR rs17337023 polymorphisms were determined using tetra amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (T-ARMS-PCR). The results showed that PTPN22 rs2476601 CT genotype as well as rs2476601 T allele was a risk factor for susceptibility to RA (OR=5.89 95%CI = 1.78-19.48, P = 0.004 and OR = 4.78, 95%CI = 1.59-14.35, P = 0.003, respectively). We also found that EGFR rs17337023 AT and rs17337023 TT genotypes were risk factor for susceptibility to RA (OR = 9.94 95%CI = 3.65-26.73, P < 0.001 and OR = 3.66, 95%CI = 1.46-9.15, P = 0.005, respectively). In addition the EGFR rs17337023 T allele was a risk for predisposition to RA (OR = 1.56, 95%CI=1.06-2.30, P = 0.030). In conclusion, we found an association between PTPN22 rs2476601 and EGFR rs17337023 polymorphisms and the risk of RA in a sample of Iranian population.

Functional polymorphisms of FAS and FASL gene and risk of breast cancer - pilot study of 134 cases

Fas/Fas ligand (FasL) system is one of the key apoptotic signaling entities in the extrinsic apoptotic pathway. De-regulation of this pathway, i.e. by mutations may prevent the immune system from the removal of newly-formed tumor cells, and thus lead to tumor formation. The present study investigated the association between −1377 G/A (rs2234767) and −670 A/G (rs1800682) polymorphisms in Fas as well as single nucleotide polymorphisms INV2nt −124 A/G (rs5030772) and −844 C/T (rs763110) in FasL in a sample of Iranian patients with breast cancer. This case-control study was done on 134 breast cancer patients and 152 normal women. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood samples. The polymorphisms were determined by using tetra-ARMS-PCR method. There was no significant difference in the genotype distribution of FAS rs2234767 polymorphism between cases and controls. FAS rs1800682, FASL rs5030772, and FASL rs763110 genotypes showed significant associations with an increasing risk of breast cancer (odds ratio OR = 3.18, P = 0.019; OR = 5.08, P = 0.012; OR = 2.40, P = 0.024, respectively). In conclusion, FAS rs2234767 was not associated with breast cancer risk. Though, FAS rs1800682, FASL rs5030772, and FASL rs763110 polymorphisms were associated with the risk of breast cancer in the examined population.

Association of IRGM polymorphisms and susceptibility to pulmonary tuberculosis in Zahedan, Southeast Iran

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. IRGM1 is an important protein in the innate immune response against intracellular pathogens by regulating autophagy. Polymorphisms in the IRGM genes are known to influence expression levels and may be associated with outcome of infections. This case-control study was done on 150 patients with PTB and 150 healthy subjects to determine whether the IRGM polymorphisms at positions -1208 A/G (rs4958842), -1161 C/T (rs4958843), and -947 C/T (rs4958846) were associated with PTB. The polymorphisms were determined using tetra-amplification refractory mutation system-PCR (T-ARMS-PCR). The results showed that the IRGM -1161 C/T and -947 C/T polymorphisms were associated with decreased susceptibility to PTB (OR = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.03-0.13, P < 0.001 and OR = 0.27; 95% CI = 0.013-0.55, P < 0.001, resp.). No significant difference was found among the groups regarding -1208 A/G polymorphism. In conclusion we found that the IRGM -1161 C/T and -947 C/T polymorphisms but not -1208 A/G polymorphism provide relative protection against PTB in a sample of Iranian population.

R620W functional polymorphism of protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22 is not associated with pulmonary tuberculosis in Zahedan, southeast Iran

The protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22 (PTPN22) gene, which encodes an intracellular lymphoid-specific phosphatase, is considered an important regulator of T-cell activation. We investigated a possible association between the PTPN22 C1858T (R620W) polymorphism and pulmonary tuberculosis in an Iranian population. Single nucleotide polymorphisms of PTPN22 C1858T (rs2476601) were genotyped in 172 pulmonary tuberculosis cases and 204 normal subjects from Zaheden, Iran. Frequencies of genotypes CC, CT and TT of the PTPN22 C1858T polymorphism were 98.3, 1.7 and 0% in the pulmonary tuberculosis patients, and 96.1, 3.9 and 0% in the control group, respectively (P = 0.239). The frequency of the minor (T) allele was 0.8% in pulmonary tuberculosis patients and 2.0% in controls. Significant differences were not observed in genotype or allele frequencies of PTPN22 C1858T in the comparison between pulmonary tuberculosis patients and healthy subjects in our Iranian population sample.

Paraoxonase 1 polymorphisms L55M and Q192R were not risk factors for Parkinson's disease: a HuGE review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

The Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) has been studied as a potential candidate gene for Parkinson's disease risk, but direct evidence from genetic association studies remains inconclusive. We performed a meta-analysis pooling data from all relevant studies in order to determine the effects of two PON 1 polymorphisms (L55M and Q192R) on Parkinson's disease.

METHODS

We applied a random effects to combine odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals. Q statistic was used to evaluate the homogeneity, and Egger's test and Funnel plot were used to assess publication bias. In secondary analyses, we examined dominant and recessive models as well.

RESULTS

Concerning the PON1 L55M polymorphism, we identified 9 eligible studies (a total of 2582 cases and 3997 controls). The random effects pooled OR was OR=1.29, (0.90, 1.84). Concerning the Q192R polymorphism, we identified 7 eligible studies (a total of 2582 cases and 3997 controls). The random effects pooled OR was OR=1.08(0.81, 1.43). Analysis with dominant and recessive genetic models yielded the same inferences as genotype-based comparisons for both of the two polymorphisms.

CONCLUSION

The results of this meta-analysis suggested that both PON1 L55M and Q192R were not responsible for PD.

A tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction for the detection of rs8099917 IL28B genotype

Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP, rs8099917, rs12979860) near the IL28B gene have been illustrated as outcome predictors of hepatitis C virus (HCV) treatment with pegylated interferon/ribavirin. The aim of the present study was to design a simple tetra-primer amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (T-ARMS-PCR) for the evaluation of the rs8099917 IL28B gene polymorphism. We efficiently designed a T-ARMS-PCR for detection of rs8099917 IL28B. Using this method, we genotyped 83 subjects with NAFLD (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) and 93 healthy subjects. No significant differences were found in allelic and genotypic frequencies of rs8099917 IL28B gene polymorphism between NAFLD subjects and controls. The frequency of minor allele (G allele) was 0.13 in healthy and 0.19 in NAFLD subjects. In conclusion, we designed a simple, inexpensive, and reproducible T-ARMS-PCR for detection of rs8099917 IL28B polymorphism which can be used for routine assay. In addition, we found that rs8099917 polymorphism is not a risk factor for predisposition to NAFLD in a sample of Iranian population. Larger studies with different ethnics are required to validate our findings.

Association of genetic polymorphisms of glutathione-S-transferase genes (GSTT1, GSTM1, and GSTP1) and susceptibility to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in Zahedan, Southeast Iran

Oxidative damage is thought to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Glutathione-S-transferases (GSTs) are involved in cell protection against oxidative stress. We examined whether GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 polymorphisms are associated with NAFLD in a sample of the Iranian population. The current case-control study included 83 patients with NAFLD and 93 healthy subjects. The GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms were analyzed by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The GSTP1 polymorphism was detected by tetra amplification refractory mutation system-PCR assay. The GSTM1-null genotype was significantly associated with the development of NAFLD (odds ratios [OR]=2.171, 95% confidence intervals [CI]=1.188-3.970, p=0.015). The GSTP1 Val allele was shown to be a risk factor for NAFLD (OR=1.739, 95% CI=1.089-2.777, p=0.024). The GSTT1 polymorphism was not significantly different between control and patient groups (p=0.221). This study showed that GSTM1 and GSTP1, but not GSTT1, genetic polymorphisms are associated with NAFLD in a sample of the Iranian population, and may be used to determine the risk of development of NAFLD.

Association between paraoxonase-1 gene polymorphisms and risk of metabolic syndrome

Paraoxonase-1 (PON1), a high-density lipoprotein (HDL) associated enzyme, is involved in the metabolism and detoxification of insecticides and pesticides. Three polymorphisms within the PON1 gene affect the enzyme activity. Two of these (L55M and Q192R) are located at the coding region and the third (-107C/T) is in promoter region. We performed a case-control study in order to elucidate the possible contribution of variability within PON1 at three mentioned positions to the risk of MS in a South-East Iranian population. DNA was isolated from peripheral blood of patients (N = 119) with MS and healthy controls (N = 201). Allelic polymorphisms at positions Q192R, L55M and -107C/T in the PON1 gene were studied by Amplification Refractory Mutation System (ARMS)-PCR. It was observed that genotypes RR and QR + RR of Q192R locus significantly increased the risk of MS (OR = 2; 95% CI: 1.17-3.40, P = 0.0001 and OR = 1.62; 95% CI: 1.0-2.63; P = 0.05, respectively). The risk in patients with MM and LM + MM genotypes at the L55M locus was marginal (OR = 1.33; 95% CI: 0.68-1.85; P = 0.34 and OR = 1.12; 95% CI: 0.68-1.85; P = 0.73 respectively). The CC genotype at -107C/T locus also increased the risk of metabolic syndrome, but was not significant. This association was somewhat stronger when combined genotypes at Q192R and L55M loci were analyzed (OR = 3.30; 95% CI: 1.34-8.24; P = 0.007). Our results, in this first study, provide evidence for association of PON1 gene polymorphisms with the risk for metabolic syndrome.

Lack of association between paraoxonase 1 Q192R polymorphism and multiple sclerosis in relapse phase: A case-control study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to estimate the serum activity of paraoxonase 1(PON1) and assess the distribution of PON1 polymorphisms in MS patients in the relapse phase.

DESIGN AND METHODS

PON1 and arylesterase (ARE) serum activities were measured in two equal groups (each group 63 cases) of relapsing-remitting MS patients and healthy individuals.

RESULTS

Mean values for serum PON1 and ARE activities were 90.3±63.4 and 182.1±128.7IU/L for patients and 99.9±73.3 and 190.8±150.3IU/L for controls. Those values were not statistically significant (p=0.242 and p=0.378), respectively. Comparing genotype distributions and allele frequencies in both groups for PON1 Q192R and PON L55M polymorphisms did not show any statistical difference.

CONCLUSION

In a selected group of MS patients in relapsing phase no statistically significant difference in PON1 and ARE activities was detected but the mean values for the serum enzyme activities were lower in MS patients.