Advances in siRNA delivery approaches in cancer therapy: challenges and opportunities

Advancements in the clinical applications of small interfering RNA (siRNA) in cancer therapy have opened up new possibilities for precision medicine. siRNAs, as powerful genetic tools, have shown potential in targeting and suppressing the expression of specific genes associated with cancer progression. Their effectiveness has been further enhanced by incorporating them into nanoparticles, which protect siRNAs from degradation and enable targeted delivery. However, despite these promising developments, several challenges persist in the clinical translation of siRNA-based cancer therapy. This comprehensive review explores the progress and challenges associated with the clinical applications of siRNA in cancer therapy. This review highlights the use of siRNA-loaded nanoparticles as an effective delivery system for optimizing siRNA efficacy in various types of carcinomas and the potential of siRNA-based therapy as a genetic approach to overcome limitations associated with conventional chemotherapeutic agents, including severe drug toxicities and organ damage. Moreover, it emphasizes on the key challenges, including off-target effects, enzymatic degradation of siRNAs in serum, low tumor localization, stability issues, and rapid clearance from circulation that need to be addressed for successful clinical development of siRNA-based cancer therapy. Despite these challenges, the review identifies significant avenues for advancing siRNA technology from the laboratory to clinical settings. The ongoing progress in siRNA-loaded nanoparticles for cancer treatment demonstrates potential antitumor activities and safety profiles. By understanding the current state of siRNA-based therapy and addressing the existing challenges, we aim to pave the way for translating siRNA technology into effective oncologic clinics as an improved treatment options for cancer patients.

Pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs) in SARS-CoV-2

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are specific sensors that directly recognize various molecules derived from viral or bacterial pathogens, senescent cells, damaged cells, and apoptotic cells. These sensors act as a bridge between nonspecific and specific immunity in humans. PRRs in human innate immunity were classified into six types: toll-like receptors (TLR), C-type lectin receptors (CLRs), nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors (NLRs), absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2)-like receptors (ALRs), retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLRs), and cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS). Numerous types of PRRs are responsible for recognizing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, which is immensely effective in prompting interferon responses. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection by PRRs causes the initiation of an intracellular signaling cascade and subsequently the activation of various transcription factors that stimulate the production of cytokines, chemokines, and other immune-related factors. Therefore, it seems that PRRs are a promising potential therapeutic approach for combating SARS-CoV-2 infection and other microbial infections. In this review, we have introduced the current knowledge of various PRRs and related signaling pathways in response to SARS-CoV-2.

MicroRNAs as Targets for Cancer Diagnosis: Interests and Limitations

MicroRNAs are small RNAs with ability to attach to the large number of RNA that regulate gene expression on post-transcriptional level via inhibition or degradation of specific mRNAs. MiRNAs in cells are the primary regulators of functions such as cell growth, differentiation, and apoptosis and considerably influence cell function. The expression levels of microRNAs change in human diseases, including cancer. These changes highlight their essential role in cancer pathogenesis. Ubiquitous irregular expression profiles of miRNAs have been detected in various human cancers using genome-wide identification techniques, which are emerging as novel diagnostic and prognostic cancer biomarkers of high specificity and sensitivity. The measurable miRNAs with enhanced stability in blood, tissues, and other body fluids provide a comprehensive source of miRNA-dependent biomarkers for human cancers. The leading role of miRNAs as potential biomarkers in human cancers is discussed in this article. In addition, the interests and difficulties of miRNAs as biomarkers have been explored.

Prevalence of Chromosomal Abnormalities in Iranian Patients with Infertility

BACKGROUND

The numerical and structural abnormalities of chromosomes are the most common cause of infertility. Here, we evaluated the prevalence and types of chromosomal abnormalities in Iranian infertile patients.

METHODS

We enrolled 1750 couples of reproductive age with infertility, who referred to infertility clinics in Tehran during 2014- 2019, in order to perform chromosomal analysis. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from all couples and chromosomal abnormalities were evaluated by G-banded metaphase karyotyping. In some cases, the detected abnormalities were confirmed using fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH).

RESULTS

We detected various chromosomal abnormalities in 114/3500 (3.257%) patients with infertility. The prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities was 44/114 (38.596%) among infertile females and 70/114 (61.403%) among infertile males. Structural chromosomal abnormalities were found in 27/1750 infertile females and 35/1750 infertile males. Numerical chromosomal abnormalities were found in 17/1750 of females and 35/1750 of males. The 45, XY, rob (13;14) (p10q10) translocation and Klinefelter syndrome (47, XXY) were the most common structural and numerical chromosomal abnormalities in the Iranian infertile patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In general, we found a high prevalence of chromosomal abnormalities in Iranian patients with reproductive problems. Our study highlights the importance of cytogenetic studies in infertile patients before starting infertility treatments approaches.

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR-T) cells: Novel cell therapy for hematological malignancies

Over the last decade, the emergence of several novel therapeutic approaches has changed the therapeutic perspective of human malignancies. Adoptive immunotherapy through chimeric antigen receptor T cell (CAR-T), which includes the engineering of T cells to recognize tumor-specific membrane antigens and, as a result, death of cancer cells, has created various clinical benefits for the treatment of several human malignancies. In particular, CAR-T-cell-based immunotherapy is known as a critical approach for the treatment of patients with hematological malignancies such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), multiple myeloma (MM), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). However, CAR-T-cell therapy of hematological malignancies is associated with various side effects. There are still extensive challenges in association with further progress of this therapeutic approach, from manufacturing and engineering issues to limitations of applications and serious toxicities. Therefore, further studies are required to enhance efficacy and minimize adverse events. In the current review, we summarize the development of CAR-T-cell-based immunotherapy and current clinical antitumor applications to treat hematological malignancies. Furthermore, we will mention the current advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and therapeutic limitations of CAR-T-cell therapy.

CRISPR Technology in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment: Opportunities and Challenges

A novel gene editing tool, the Cas system, associated with the CRISPR system, is emerging as a potential method for genome modification. This simple method, based on the adaptive immune defense system of prokaryotes, has been developed and used in human cancer research. These technologies have tremendous therapeutic potential, especially in gene therapy, where a patient-specific mutation is genetically corrected to cure diseases that cannot be cured with conventional treatments. However, translating CRISPR/Cas9 into the clinic will be challenging, as we still need to improve the efficiency, specificity, and application of the technology. In this review, we will explain how CRISPR-Cas9 technology can treat cancer at the molecular level, focusing on ordination and the epigenome. We will also focus on the promise and shortcomings of this system to ensure its application in the treatment and prevention of cancer.

CTLA-4; as an immunosuppressive immune checkpoint in breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) is one of the prevalent diseases and causes of death in women, and its incidence rate is increasing in numerous developed and developing countries. The common approach to BC therapy is surgery, followed by radiation therapy or chemotherapy that doesn't lead to acceptable outcomes in many patients. Therefore, developing innovative strategies for the treatment of BC is an essential need for the most effective therapy. The immunotherapy of the BC is a promising and attractive strategy, which can increase the capacity of the immune system to recognize and kill the tumor cells and inhibit the recurrence of the tumors as well as the development of new metastatic sites. The blockade of immune checkpoints is the most attractive and promising strategy for cancer immunotherapy. The cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) is a cell-surface glycoprotein expressed by stimulated T cells and has pivotal roles in cell cycle modulation, cytokine generation, and regulation of the T cells proliferation. Currently, anti-CTLA-4 agents such as monoclonal antibodies (Ipilimumab and tremelimumab) are broadly applied as therapeutic agents in clinical studies of different cancers. The anti-CTLA-4 antibodies, alone or combined with other therapeutic agents, remarkably increased the tumor-suppressive effects of the immune system and improved the prognosis of cancer. The immune checkpoint inhibitors may represent promising options for BC treatment as in monotherapy or in combination with other conventional treatments. In this review, we discuss the role of CTLA-4 and its therapeutic potential by inhibitors of immune checkpoints in BC therapeutics.

Anastasis: cell recovery mechanisms and potential role in cancer

Balanced cell death and survival are among the most important cell development and homeostasis pathways that can play a critical role in the onset or progress of malignancy steps. Anastasis is a natural cell recovery pathway that rescues cells after removing the apoptosis-inducing agent or brink of death. The cells recuperate and recover to an active and stable state. So far, minimal knowledge is available about the molecular mechanisms of anastasis. Still, several involved pathways have been explained: recovery through mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization, caspase cascade arrest, repairing DNA damage, apoptotic bodies formation, and phosphatidylserine. Anastasis can facilitate the survival of damaged or tumor cells, promote malignancy, and increase drug resistance and metastasis. Here, we noted recently known mechanisms of the anastasis process and underlying molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we summarize the consequences of anastatic mechanisms in the initiation and progress of malignancy, cancer cell metastasis, and drug resistance.

CRISPR Technology in Gene-Editing-Based Detection and Treatment of SARS-CoV-2

Outbreak and rapid spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by coronavirus acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) caused severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV-2) that started in Wuhan, and has become a global problem because of the high rate of human-to-human transmission and severe respiratory infections. Because of high prevalence of SARS-CoV-2, which threatens many people worldwide, rapid diagnosis and simple treatment are needed. Genome editing is a nucleic acid-based approach to altering the genome by artificially changes in genetic information and induce irreversible changes in the function of target gene. Clustered, regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR/Cas) could be a practical and straightforward approach to this disease. CRISPR/Cas system contains Cas protein, which is controlled by a small RNA molecule to create a double-stranded DNA gap. Evidence suggested that CRISPR/Cas was also usable for diagnosis and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this review study, we discoursed on application of CRISPR technology in detection and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Another aspect of this study was to introduce potential future problems in use of CRISPR/Cas technology.

Effect of Apatinib plus melatonin on vasculogenic mimicry formation by cancer stem cells from breast cancer cell line

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Vasculogenic mimicry (VM) is one of the most important causes of breast cancer metastasis and resistance against drugs. The cancer stem cells (CSCs) are known as essential factors for VM formation. In this study, the effects of melatonin, Apatinib, and a combination of Apatinib/melatonin on VM formation were investigated by breast CSCs from breast cancer cell line.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The percentage of CSCs was determined in two breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) by flow cytometry. The effects of Apatinib, melatonin, and a combination of Apatinib/melatonin were evaluated on proliferation and viability, migration and invasion, apoptosis, and VM formation in MDA-MB-231 cells. Moreover, expression levels of the involved proteins in cancer cell proliferation and viability, CSCs, migration and invasion, and VM formation were evaluated by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and western blotting methods.

RESULTS

Results of the present study showed that melatonin and Apatinib reduced survival rate of CSCs in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Apatinib, melatonin, and a combination of Apatinib/melatonin inhibited proliferation of breast CSCs (P ≤ 0.001). Formation of VM was decreased in the MDA-MB-231 cancer cell line treated with Apatinib and combination of Apatinib/melatonin. Apatinib and combination of Apatinib/melatonin reduced invasion of breast CSCs (P ≤ 0.0001). Expression of vascular endothelial VE-cadherin, ephrinA2 receptor (EPHA2), p-PI3K/phosphoinositide-3 kinase (PI3K) and phospho-AKT (p-AKT)/AKT ratios was decreased under the influence of Apatinib and a combination of Apatinib/melatonin (P ≤ 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Apatinib or a combination of Apatinib/melatonin may be used to manage patients with breast cancer. However, further studies are needed to identify anti-cancer mechanisms of melatonin and Apatinib for better management of the patients with breast cancer.

Identification of Two Novel Mutations in PKHD1 Gene from Two Families with Polycystic Kidney Disease by Whole Exome Sequencing

Background

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is an autosomal recessive disorder resulting from mutations in the PKHD1 gene on chromosome 6 (6p12), a large gene spanning 470 kb of genomic DNA.

Objective

The aim of the present study was to report newly identified mutations in the PKHD1 gene in two Iranian families with PKD.

Materials and Methods

Genetic alterations of a 3-month-old boy and a 27-year-old girl with PKD were evaluated using whole-exome sequencing. The PCR direct sequencing was performed to analyse the co-segregation of the variants with the disease in the family. Finally, the molecular function of the identified novel mutations was evaluated by in silico study.

Results

In the 3 month-old boy, a novel homozygous frameshift mutation was detected in the PKHD1 gene, which can cause PKD. Moreover, we identified three novel heterozygous missense mutations in ATIC, VPS13B, and TP53RK genes. In the 27-year-old woman, with two recurrent abortions history and two infant mortalities at early weeks due to metabolic and/or renal disease, we detected a novel missense mutation on PKHD1 gene and a novel mutation in ETFDH gene.

Conclusion

In general, we have identified two novel mutations in the PKHD1 gene. These molecular findings can help accurately correlate genotype and phenotype in families with such disease in order to reduce patient births through preoperative genetic diagnosis or better management of disorders.

Identification of a compound heterozygous missense mutation in LAMA2 gene from a patient with merosin-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy type 1A

Background

Merosin‐deficient congenital muscular dystrophy type 1A (MDC1A) is occurred by mutations in LAMA2 gene that encodes the laminin α2 chain (merosin). MDC1A is a predominant subtype of congenital muscular dystrophy. Herein, we identified two missense mutations in LAMA2 gene in compound heterozygous status in an Iranian patient with MDC1A using whole‐exome sequencing (WES).

Methods

In the present study, we evaluated genetic alterations in an Iranian 35‐month‐old boy with MDC1A and his healthy family using WES method. The identified mutations further confirmed by Sanger sequencing method. Finally, in silico analysis was conducted to further evaluation of molecular function of the identified genetic variants.

Results

We identified two potentially pathogenic missense mutations in compound heterozygous state (c.7681G>A p.Gly2561Ser and c.4840A>G p.Asn1614Asp) in LAMA2 gene as contributing to the MDC1A phenotype. The healthy parents of our proband are single heterozygous for identified mutations. These variants were found to be pathogenic by in silico analysis.

Conclusions

In general, we successfully identified LAMA2 gene mutations in an Iranian patient with MDC1A using WES. The identified mutations in LAMA2 gene can be useful in genetic counseling, prenatal diagnosis, and predicting prognosis of MDC1A.

Wharton jelly stem cells inhibits AGS gastric cancer cells through induction of apoptosis and modification of MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer) GC) is one of the most common cancer with high mortality worldwide. The human Wharton's jelly stem cells (hWJSCs) can inhibit several cancer cells through several molecular pathways. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate anticancer effects of hWJSCs conditioned medium (hWJSC-CM) and cell-free lysate (hWJSC-CL) against of GC cell line AGS and underlying signaling pathways.

METHODS

In this study, we evaluated the effects of hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL on viability, proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways in AGS cells. Moreover, mRNA expression of genes involved in apoptosis (BAX, BCL2, SMAC, and SURVIVIN), as well as expression of proteins involved in NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways were evaluated.

RESULTS

The obtained results showed that the hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL decreased viability, migration, and invasion of GC cell line AGS in a concentration and time dependent manner. We observed that the hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL induced apoptosis pathway through regulation of apoptosis involved genes mRNA expression. In addition, the hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL suppressed NF-κB signaling pathways as well as promoted MAPK signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

In general, our study suggested that the hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL inhibits proliferation and viability of GC cell line AGS through induction of apoptosis, as well as modification of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

The regulatory role of pivotal microRNAs in the AKT signaling pathway in breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of cancer among women, and it remains the main challenge despite improved treatments. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a small non-coding family of RNAs that play an indispensable role in regulating major physiological processes, including differentiation, proliferation, invasion, migration, cell cycle regulation, stem cell maintenance, apoptosis, and organ development. The dysregulation of these tiny molecules is associated with various human malignancies. More than 50% of these non-coding RNA sequences estimated have been placed on genomic regions or fragile sites linked to cancer. Following the discovery of the first signatures of specific miRNA in breast cancer, numerous researches focused on involving these tiny RNAs in breast cancer physiopathology as a new therapeutic approach or as reliable prognostic biomarkers. In the current review, we focus on recent findings related to the involvement of miRNAs in breast cancer via the AKT signaling pathway and the related clinical implications.

Potential Therapeutic Effects of Melatonin Mediate via miRNAs in Cancer

miRNAs are evolutionarily conserved non-coding ribonucleic acids with a length of between 19 and 25 nucleotides. Because of their ability to regulate gene expression, miRNAs have an important function in the controlling of various biological processes, such as cell cycle, differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Owing to the long-standing regulative potential of miRNAs in tumor-suppressive pathways, scholars have recently paid closer attention to the expression profile of miRNAs in various types of cancer. Melatonin, an indolic compound secreted from pineal gland and some peripheral tissues, has been considered as an effective anti-tumor hormone in a wide spectrum of cancers. Furthermore, it induces apoptosis, inhibits tumor metastasis and invasion, and also angiogenesis. A growing body of evidence indicates the effects of melatonin on miRNAs expression in broad spectrum of diseases, including cancer. Due to the long-term effects of the regulation of miRNAs expression, melatonin could be a promising therapeutic factor in the treatment of cancers via the regulation of miRNAs. Therefore, in this review, we will discuss the effects of melatonin on miRNAs expression in various types of cancers.

Melatonin increases the anticancer potential of doxorubicin in Caco-2 colorectal cancer cells

Colorectal cancer (CC) is an important human malignancy with high cancer related death worldwide. The chemotherapy using doxorubicin hydrochloride is one of the most common cancer therapeutic methods. However, drug resistance lowers the treatment efficacy in CC patients. The combination therapies seem to be more promising by taking the advantage of synergistic effects. The present study aimed to evaluate a new strategy to enhance the anticancer activity of doxorubicin in Caco-2 CC cell line by co-administration of melatonin. The effects of doxorubicin, melatonin, and their combinations (Dox-Mel) were investigated on the proliferation and viability, morphological alterations, and tumor spheroid formation. Flow cytometry was employed to compare the apoptotic situation of the cells in study groups. Changes in metastatic potential of the cells were assessed by wound healing assay and trans-well migration assays. Moreover, expression of BAX, SMAC, BCL-2, SURVIVIN, MMP-2, and MMP-9 genes were evaluated by quantitative real time PCR and western blotting. Our study showed that doxorubicin, melatonin, and Dox-Mel significantly decreased the proliferation and viability, tumor spheroid formation, invasion, and migration. Furthermore, the changes were in a concentration and time dependent manner. There was an increase in apoptosis rate in the treatment groups. Expression of genes involved in apoptosis and cell motility were altered significantly. It was observed that anticancer activity of Dox-Mel combination was significantly more than doxorubicin and melatonin treatments alone. We showed an enhanced apoptotic and anticancer activity of doxorubicin and melatonin combination chemotherapy on CC cell line than doxorubicin or melatonin treatments alone. This combination could promote the treatment efficiency and alleviate the un-intended side effects by lowering the dose of doxorubicin prescription.

Enhanced anticancer potency of hydroxytyrosol and curcumin by PLGA-PAA nano-encapsulation on PANC-1 pancreatic cancer cell line

Many chemotherapeutic regimens have been investigated for advanced unresectable and metastatic pancreatic cancer (PC), but with only minimal improvement in survival and prognosis. Here, we investigated anti-cancer function of free and nano-encapsulated hydroxytyrosol (Hyd) and curcumin (Cur), and its combinations (Hyd-Cur) on PANC-1 cell line. The poly lactide-co-glycolide-co-polyacrylic acid (PLGA-co-PAA) nano-encapsulated Hyd and Cur were synthesized, and MTT assay was performed to evaluate cytotoxic effects of free and nano-encapsulated Hyd, Cur, and Hyd-Cur. Effects of free and nano-encapsulated Hyd, Cur, and Hyd-Cur were evaluated on viability, migration, morphological alterations, colony formation, and apoptosis on PANC-1 cells. We observed that free and nano-encapsulated Hyd, Cur, and Hyd-Cur significantly increased apoptosis rates as well as significantly decreased viability, migration, and colony formation in PANC-1 cells. According to our results, Hyd-Cur combination and nano-encapsulation therapy exerts more profound apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects on PANC-1 cells than free Hyd or Hyd monotherapy.

Human Wharton's jelly stem cells inhibit endometriosis through apoptosis induction

Endometriosis is a relatively benign disease characterized by endometrial tumors and uterus stroma. Apoptosis suppression is one of the most important pathological processes of endometriosis. Recently, several studies reported that human Wharton's jelly stem cells (hWJSCs) can inhibit growth and proliferation of various cancer cells through induction of apoptosis. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of hWJSCs conditioned medium (hWJSC-CM) and cell-free lysate (hWJSC-CL) on endometriosis cells in vitro. In the present study, effects of different concentrations of hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL on viability and proliferation, morphological alterations, colony formation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of endometriosis cells were evaluated. Our results showed that hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL decrease viability and proliferation, colony formation, migration, and invasion, as well as increase morphological alterations and apoptosis of endometriosis cells, in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Decreased migration and invasion of treated endometriosis cells with hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL may be due to decrease of MMP-2 and MMP-9 gene expression. Moreover, induction of apoptosis in treated endometriosis cells can be due to regulation of apoptosis-related genes expression, including BAX, BCL-2, SMAC, and SURVIVIN. The results of the present study suggest that hWJSC-CM and hWJSC-CL can inhibit endometriosis cells at a mild-to-moderate level through various physiological mechanisms. However, further studies on animal models are necessary to achieve more accurate results.

The pivotal role of MicroRNAs in glucose metabolism in cancer

Cancer cells are able to undergo aerobic glycolysis and metabolize glucose to lactate instead of oxidative phosphorylation, which is known as Warburg effect. Accumulating evidence has revealed that microRNAs regulate cancer cell metabolism, which manifest a higher rate of glucose metabolism. Various signaling pathways along with glycolytic enzymes are responsible for the emergence of glycolytic dependence. MicroRNAs are a class of non-coding RNAs that are not translated into proteins but regulate target gene expression or in other words function pre-translationally and post-transcriptionally. MicroRNAs have been shown to be involved in various biological processes, including glucose metabolism via targeting major transcription factors, enzymes, oncogenes or tumor suppressors alongside the oncogenic signaling pathways. In this review, we describe the regulatory role of microRNAs of cancer cell glucose metabolism, including in the glucose uptake, glycolysis, tricarboxylic acid cycle and several signaling pathways and further suggest that microRNA-based therapeutics can be used to inhibit the process of glucose metabolism reprogramming in cancer cells and thus suppressing cancer progression.

Association of a novel homozygous mutation in the HMGCS2 gene with an HMGCSD in an Iranian patient

BACKGROUND

3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA (HMG-CoA) synthase 2 gene (HMGCS2) encodes a mitochondrial enzyme catalyzing the first reaction of ketogenesis metabolic pathway which provides lipid-derived energy for various organs during times of carbohydrate deprivation, such as fasting. Mutations in this gene are responsible for HMG-CoA synthase deficiency (HMGCSD). The aim of present study was to investigate the association of mutation in the HMGCS2 gene with HMGCSD in a patient with atypical symptoms.

METHODS

The clinical and genetic features of an 8-months-old girl with HMGCSD were evaluated. Molecular genetic testing was conducted using whole-exome sequencing (WES) in order to identify potential disease-causing mutation. The WES finding was confirmed by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the target sequence carried out for the patient and her parents. The PCR products were subjected to direct sequencing using forward and reverse specific primers corresponding to the HMGCS2 gene.

RESULTS

A novel homozygous missense mutation (c.266G>A p.Gly89Asp) was detected in the HMGCS2 gene. Sanger sequencing along with co-segregation analysis of all family members confirmed this novel pathogenic germline mutation. The mutant gene was found to be pathogenic by bioinformatics analysis.

CONCLUSION

To our best knowledge, this is the first report of HMGCSD in Iran which would expand our knowledge about the mutational spectrum of the HMGCS2 gene and the phenotype variations of the disease.

Regulatory role of microRNAs in cancer through Hippo signaling pathway

Cancer is the major cause of death worldwide in countries of all income levels. The Hippo signaling pathway is a Drosophila kinase gene that was identified to regulate organ size, cell regeneration, and contribute to tumorigenesis. A huge variety of extrinsic and intrinsic signals regulate the Hippo signaling pathway. The Hippo signaling pathway consists of a wide array of components that merge numerous signals such as mechanical signals to address apoptosis resistance, cell proliferation, cellular outputs of growth, cell death and survival at cellular and tissue level. Recent studies have shed new light on the regulatory role of microRNAs in Hippo signaling and how they contribute to cancer progression. MicroRNAs influence various cancer-related processes such as, apoptosis, proliferation, migration, cell cycle and metabolism. Inhibition and overexpression of miRNAs via miRNA mimics and miRNA inhibitors, respectively, can uncover a hopeful and reliable insight for treatment and early diagnosis of cancer patients. In this review we will discuss our current understanding of regulatory role of miRNAs in Hippo signaling pathway.

Anti-Cancer Effects of Probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus for Colorectal Cancer Cell Line Caco-2 through Apoptosis Induction

Background: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Probiotics are useful and non-pathogenic microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract, which can show anticancer activity through the induction of apoptosis. This study aimed to evaluate the antiproliferative effects of Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic on the Caco-2 colorectal cancer cell line. Methods: The supernatant (secreted metabolites) and bacterial extract of L. acidophilus probiotics were prepared and used as an anti-proliferative agent on the colorectal cancer cell line, Caco-2 in vitro. The effects of supernatant and extract of L. acidophilus were evaluated on the viability and proliferation of cancer cells using MTT assay. Moreover, morphological alterations of cancer cells treated with supernatant and extract of L. acidophilus were evaluated by an inverted phase contrast microscope. The mRNA expression levels of apoptosis-related genes (SURVIVIN and SMAC) in treated cancer cells and untreated controls were evaluated using the Real-Time PCR method. Results: The results showed that the supernatant and extract of L. acidophilus inhibited the viability and proliferation of cancer cells in a dose and time-dependent manner. Moreover, various morphological alterations were observed in the treated cancer cells, which are indicators of apoptosis induction. The mRNA expression of SURVIVIN and SMAC genes were significantly up-regulated and downregulated in the treated cancer cells, respectively. Conclusion: The results of the present study suggested that the supernatant and extract of L.acidophilus could inhibit the viability and proliferation of colorectal cancer cell line, Caco-2through induction of apoptosis, increase the survival rate of colon cancer patients.

Inhibition of Colorectal Cancer Cell Line CaCo-2 by Essential Oil of Eucalyptus camaldulensis Through Induction of Apoptosis

Treatment of colorectal cancer is one of the important challenges due to the increase of resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs. Isolated natural compounds from medicinal plants and other sources often are used as novel drugs for treatment of various human cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the antioxidant and anticancer activity of Eucalyptus camaldulensis essential oil on colorectal cancer cell line Caco-2. The antioxidant activity of extracted E. camaldulensis essential oil (1000, 800, 400, 200, 100, 50, 25, 12.5, 6, and 3 μg/mL) was evaluated by free radicals inactivation method. Moreover, MTT assay was used to examine the cytotoxic effects of E. camaldulensis essential oil on the Caco-2 cell line. The mRNA expression of BAX and BCL-2 genes was studied using quantitative Real-Time PCR method, in treated cancer cells compared to untreated cells. We indicated a significant, impressive antioxidant activity in 1000 μg/mL of E. camaldulensis essential oil, in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, we found that this product exerted a cytotoxic effect on cancer cells when 100 μg/mL concentration was considered as half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50). Also, the expression of BAX and BCL-2 genes were significantly upregulated and downregulated, respectively, in the treated Caco-2 cells with E. camaldulensis essential oil. In conclusion, our study showed significant antioxidant and anticancer activity in E. camaldulensis essential oil in a concentration and time-dependent manner, which may be due to the reduction of free radicals and induction of apoptosis process in colorectal cancer cells.

Resistance mechanisms to immune checkpoints blockade by monoclonal antibody drugs in cancer immunotherapy: Focus on myeloma

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a clonal B-cell malignancy characterized by the accumulation of neoplastic proliferation of a plasma cell in the bone marrow that produces a monoclonal immunoglobulin. The immune checkpoint inhibitors against programmed death-1/programmed death-1 ligand and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 axis have demonstrated appropriate anticancer activity in several solid tumors and liquid cancers, and are rapidly transforming the practice of medical oncology. However, in a high percentage of patients, the efficacy of immune checkpoints blockade remains limited due to innate or primary resistance. Moreover, the malignancies progress in many patients due to acquired or secondary resistance, even after the clinical response to immune checkpoints' blockade. The evidence shows that multiple tumor-intrinsic and tumor-extrinsic factors and alterations in signaling pathways are involved in primary and secondary resistance to immune checkpoints blockade. Improved identification of intrinsic and extrinsic factors and mechanisms of resistance or response to immune checkpoints blockade may not only provide novel prognostic or predictive biomarkers but also guide the optimal combination/sequencing of immune checkpoint blockade therapy in the clinic. Here, we review the underlying biology and role of immune checkpoints blockade in patients with MM. Furthermore, we review the host and tumor-related factor effects on immune checkpoints blockade in MM immunotherapy.

Enhanced anticancer potency of doxorubicin in combination with curcumin in gastric adenocarcinoma

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the prevalent human malignancies and the third most common cause of cancer-related death worldwide. The doxorubicin hydrochloride is one of the important chemotherapeutic anticancer agents, with a limited therapeutic efficacy for treatment of GC. Therefore, taking advantage of synergistic effects by strategies like combination therapy seems appropriate and promising in treatment of GC. The aim of this study was to investigate a novel method to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of doxorubicin (as a chemotherapeutic agent) by co-administration of curcumin (as a bioactive herbal compound) in GC treatment. In the present study, the effects of curcumin, doxorubicin, and their combinations (Dox-Cur) were evaluated on the viability, morphological features, tumor spheroid formation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of gastric adenocarcinoma cell line (AGS). Moreover, expression levels of BAX, BCL-2, and CASP9 genes were assessed among AGS cells treated with curcumin, doxorubicin, and Dox-Cur. The obtained results showed that all of curcumin, doxorubicin, and Dox-Cur treatments significantly decreased the viability, tumor spheroid formation, migration, and invasion in the GC model cells. Furthermore, apoptosis rates in AGS cells were increased in a concentration- and time-dependent manner in all of the treatment groups. Moreover, the anticancer activity of the Dox-Cur combination was significantly more than curcumin and doxorubicin treatments alone. According to the results, Dox-Cur combination therapy exerts more profound apoptotic and anticancer effects on the AGS cell line than curcumin or doxorubicin monotherapy.

Vascular mimicry: changing the therapeutic paradigms in cancer

Cancer is a major problem in the health system, and despite many efforts to effectively treat it, none has yet been fully successful. Angiogenesis and metastasis are considered as major challenges in the treatment of various cancers. Researchers have struggled to succeed with anti-angiogenesis drugs for the effective treatment of cancer, although new challenges have emerged in the treatment with the emergence of resistance to anti-angiogenesis and anti-metastatic drugs. Numerous studies have shown that different cancers can resist anti-angiogenesis drugs in a new process called vascular mimicry (VM). The studies have revealed that cells resistant to anti-angiogenesis cancer therapies are more capable of forming VMs in the in vivo and in vitro environment, although there is a link between the presence of VM and poor clinical outcomes. Given the importance of the VM in the challenges facing cancer treatment, researchers are trying to identify factors that prevent the formation of these structures. In this review article, it is attempted to provide a comprehensive overview of the molecules and main signaling pathways involved in VM phenomena, as well as the agents currently being identified as anti-VM and the role of VM in response to treatment and prognosis of cancer patients.

A Heterozygous STXBP1 Gene de novo Mutation in an Iranian Child With Epileptic Encephalopathy: Case Report

The Syntaxin Binding Protein 1 (STXBP1) plays an important role in regulating neurotransmitter release and synaptic vesicle fusion through binding to syntaxin-1A (STX1A) and changing its conformation. In this study, we identified a de novo mutation (c.C1162T: p.R388X) in exon 14 of the STXBP1 gene causing an epileptic encephalopathy, early infantile, non-epileptic movement, and unclassified infantile spasms disorders in a 5-year-old boy by whole-exome sequencing. The segregation of this genetic variant was examined in the patient as well as in his parents. We found the R388X in heterozygous state in the proband but not in his parents. This genetic change could be due to de nova mutation or germlinemosaicism. © 2019 Tehran University of Medical Sciences. All rights reserved. Acta MedIran 2019;57(8):518-521.

The apatinib inhibits breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 in vitro by inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and regulating nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers and leading causes of death in the women worldwide. The evidence shows efficacy of apatinib against breast cancer. Accordingly, the present study was conducted to investigate the effect of apatinib on apoptosis, cell cycle, and Mitogen‑Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) signaling pathways in the breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cell line.

METHODS

The effects of apatinib on viability, morphology, tumor spheroid, cell cycle, migration, invasion, and apoptosis of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells were evaluated in vitro. In addition, expression of proteins involved in NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways was evaluated using the western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

Apatinib decreased viability, tumor spheroid, migration, and invasion of MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, apatinib altered morphology and regulated cell cycle which followed by apoptosis induction in MDA-MB-231 cells. Apatinib decreased expression of p-p65 and p65 proteins in NF-κB signaling pathways and increased expression of p38, p-p38, JNK, and p-JNK in MAPK signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that apatinib can inhibit proliferation, migration and invasion of breast cancer cell line MDA-MB-231 through inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and regulating NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

Anti-inflammatory activity of emu oil-based nanofibrous scaffold through downregulation of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α pro-inflammatory cytokines

Background Inflammation is one of the most important responses of the body against infection or disease, and it protects tissues from injury; however, it causes redness, swelling, pain, fever and loss of function. The aim of this present study was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of emu oil (Eu) formulated nanofibrous scaffold in HFFF2 fibroblast cells. Materials and methods Eu was formulated successfully in nanofibers through the electrospinning method. Besides, the morphological and structural properties of Eu nanofibres were evaluated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The MTT assay (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) was performed to evaluate the HFFF2 fibroblast cells' viability. Also, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to evaluate the anti-inflammatory signaling pathway in treated HFFF2 cells with Eu nanofiber. Results Our study showed that the Eu nanofiber increased the viability of fibroblast HFFF2 cells (p < 0.05). Also, the expression of interleukin1 (IL1), IL6 and tumor necrosis factor- alpha (TNF-α) pro-inflammatory cytokines genes were significantly decreased in treated HFFF2 cells with Eu nanofiber (p < 0.05). Conclusions In conclusion, Eu nanofiber scaffold potentially can reduce the inflammation process through downregulation of IL-1, IL-6 and TNF-α cytokines.

Identification of Two Novel Mutations in the ATM Gene from Patients with Ataxia-Telangiectasia by Whole Exome Sequencing

Background

Ataxia telangiectasia (AT) is one of the most common autosomal recessive hereditary ataxia presenting in childhood. The responsible gene for AT designated ATM (AT, mutated) encodes a protein which is involved in cell cycle checkpoints and other responses to genotoxicity. We describe two novel disease-causing mutations in two unrelated Iranian families with Ataxia-telangiectasia.

Methods

The probands including a 6-year-old female and an 18-year-old boy were diagnosed with Ataxia-telangiectasia among two different Iranian families. In this study, Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES) was employed for the detection of genetic changes in probands. The analysis of the co-segregation of the variants with the disease in families was conducted using PCR direct sequencing.

Results

Two novel frameshift mutations, (c.4236_4236del p. Pro1412fs) and (c.8907T>G p. Tyr2969Ter) in the ataxia telangiectasia mutated ATM gene were detected using Whole-Exome Sequencing (WES) in the probands. These mutations were observed in two separate A-T families.

Conclusion

Next-generation sequencing successfully identified the causative mutation in families with ataxia-telangiectasia. These novel mutations in the ATM gene reported in the present study could assist genetic counseling, Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) and prenatal diagnosis (PND) of AT.

Association of rs1946518 C/A Polymorphism in Promoter Region of Interleukin 18 Gene and Breast Cancer Risk in Iranian Women: A Case-control Study

Breast cancer (BC) is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the world. Genetic polymorphisms in Interleukin (IL) genes are one of the most important risk factors in BC. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of rs1946518 C/A polymorphism in the promoter region of the IL-18 gene and BC risk in Iranian women. In this case-control study, we recruited 140 women with BC as a case group and 140 age and ethnically matched women as healthy controls from East Azerbaijan, Tabriz in Iran. The genomic DNA was extracted using a salting-out method from peripheral blood leukocytes. Genotyping was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). The genotype distribution in BC patients was 37.86% CC, 47.14% CA, and 15.00% AA, whereas in healthy controls these were 40.72% CC, 42.85% CA, and 16.43% AA. Statistical analysis showed that the genotype and allele frequencies of IL-18 rs1946518 C/A polymorphism were not significantly different between BC patients and healthy controls (p>0.05). The only significant difference between cases and controls was related to family history (p=0.023). In conclusion, our study indicated that IL-18 rs1946518 C/A polymorphism was not associated with BC in the Iranian women population. However, more studies on different races and geographic areas are required to determine the exact role of rs1946518 C/A polymorphism in prognosis, diagnosis, and risk of BC.

Association of IL-10, IL-18, and IL-33 genetic polymorphisms with recurrent pregnancy loss risk in Iranian women

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a heterogeneous disease with three or more consecutive abortions before 20 weeks of pregnancy. Recently, inflammatory factors such as interleukins (IL) have been found to be a significant factor in the RPL. The objective of this study was to investigate the association between RPL and IL-10 (rs1800896), IL-18 (rs1946518) and IL-33 (rs1929992) genes polymorphisms in Iranian women. The study participants consisted of 300 women with RPL and the control group comprised of 300 healthy women with successful delivery. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood, and genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). There were no significant differences in the frequencies of genotype and allele in IL-10 gene polymorphism (rs1800896) between patients and control group (p > .005). In contrast, there were significant differences in the frequencies of CC genotype in IL-18 gene polymorphism (rs1946518) between patients and the control groups (p = .004; OR =0.990; 95% CI: 0.320-8.855). Also, there were significant differences in the frequencies of GA genotype in IL-33 gene polymorphism (rs1929992) between patients and the control groups (p = .001; OR =0.955; 95% CI: 0.239-9.807). Present study showed that the rs1800896 polymorphism (IL-10) might not play role in RPL in the Iranian population; whereas rs1946518 (IL-18) and rs1929992 (IL-33) polymorphisms may be associated with the risk of RPL in the Iranian women.

Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activities of Nasturtium officinale Essential Oil on Food Borne Bacteria

Introduction:

The use of synthetic preservatives has been increasing in the food industry, and this leads to an increased incidence of gastrointestinal diseases and cancers in humans in the long run.

Aims & Objectives:

The aim of this study was to investigate the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of Nasturtium officinale essential oil on some important food borne bacteria.

Materials & Methods:

In this study, the antibacterial activity of N. officinale essential oil was evaluated on Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella enteric by microdilution method. Also, the antioxidant activity of this essential oil was evaluated by inactivating free radicals produced by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Finally, the chemical compounds of the N. officinale essential oil were evaluated by gas chromatography- mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

Results:

The results showed that S. enteric and E. coli isolates had the most resistance and B. cereus isolates had the most susceptibility to N. officinale essential oil. The evaluation of antioxidant properties showed that in the same concentrations, the antioxidant effect of N. officinale was less than BHT. The obtained results from GC/MS showed that Phytol (30.20%) was the highest proportion and Megastigmatrienone 2 (0.18%) was the lowest proportion of essential oil.

Conclusion:

In general, the results of this study showed that N. officinale essential oil has an appropriate antibacterial activity against gram positive bacteria and can be used as a new antibacterial and antioxidant compound in the food industry.

Effect of banana puree on the survival of Lactobacillus casei in banana and apple juice cocktail during storage

  Probiotic juice is one of the great innovations in various kinds of healthy drink businesses. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of banana puree on the survival of Lactobacillus casei and physicochemical and sensory properties of cocktail containing banana and apple juice during storage. For the purpose of the study, 7% and 15% banana puree were added to apple juice in three phases. After adding banana puree, the sugar content of fruit juice was estimated as 13 °Bx. The produced fruit juice was pasteurized at 90 ˚C for 2 min. Then, depending on the treatment, L. casei was added to some samples. The samples were examined under four conservation periods (i.e., 1, 20, 40, and 60 days). The results of the study showed that the level of L. casei decreased significantly during storage time in all treatments; however, it was significantly less than the number of those of control treatments containing banana puree. The enhancement of banana puree was accompanied with the elevation of pH and significant reduction of acidity and sugar content. The treatment groups containing probiotic showed a higher increase in pH and decrease in acidity level and sugar content, compared to the groups without probiotic. The results obtained from sensory evaluation indicated that with the enhancement of banana puree to 15%, the flavor and color levels decreased significantly. As the findings indicated, the use of probiotic showed no significant effect on flavor and color levels in juice. Therefore, it is recommended to use 7% banana puree with a storage duration of 20 days to produce cocktail juice containing apple juice and banana puree with L. casei.

In vivo and in vitro impact of miR-31 and miR-143 on the suppression of metastasis and invasion in breast cancer

PURPOSE

The microRNA (miR)-31 and miR-143 are pleiotropic anti-metastatic miRs, with an expression that decreases significantly in metastatic breast cancer cells. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of miR-31 and miR-143 inhibition on metastasis and invasion in both MDA-MB231, MDA-MB468 as well as the MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines and 5-week old female mice.

METHODS

Following the cloning of miR-31 and miR-143 into vectors, their expressions were determined before treatment with constructs of miR-31 and miR-143 in cancer cell lines and normal breast cells. Then miR-31 and miR-143 were transfected to the cell lines and the expression was assessed after 48 hrs. Moreover, the levels of migration and invasion were determined in cell lines. These experiments were performed in 5-week old female mice.

RESULTS

The results showed that miR-31 expression before the transfection of miR-31 construct was decreased 4, 70 and 100 times in MCF-7, MDA-MB468 and MDA-MB231 cell lines, respectively, in comparison to normal breast cells; but after the transfection of miR-31 construct, the expression of miR-31 increased 80 times. Additionally, invasion and migration decreased by 15 and 10 times in MDAMB-468. All of the modifications in miR-143 were low in comparison to miR-31. The results of the in vivo experiments were approximately the same as in the in vitro experiments.

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that the use of miR-31 is highly efficient than miR-143 in the inhibition of invasion and metastasis in breast cancer. Our study improved our conception about miR-31 and miR-143 and their roles in the identification and therapy of breast cancer.

Reciprocal role of hBD2 and hBD3 on the adaptive immune response by measuring T lymphocyte proliferation in terms of CD4 and CCR6 expression

Background Human β-defensins (hBD2 and hBD3) are small cationic antimicrobial peptides of innate immune system which can act as a barrier against the majority of pathogens, contributing to the host immune defence. Objective The aim of study is to determine whether hBD2 and hBD3 play a role in development and proliferation of human effector CD4 T cells or not. Furthermore, if enhanced proliferation is observed in the presence of hBD2 and hBD3, these data will demonstrate whether chemokine receptor type 6 (CCR6) is required to be present for this activity to occur. Methods In this study, we examined the effect of hBD2 and hBD3 on CD4+ T cell proliferation in CCR6+ and CCR6- T cells through co-culture of peripheral blood mononuclear cells with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 stimulation in the presence or absence of hBD2 and hBD3. Proliferation was assessed using flow cytometry. Results It was demonstrated that, co-culture with hBD2 and hBD3 led to up-regulation of CD4+ T cell proliferation after 72 h whereas, CD4+ T cell proliferation was suppressed after 96 h. On the other hand, CCR6- and CCR6+ T cell proliferation was up-regulated after 72 h. But, CCR6+ only was down-regulated in the second cycle in the presence of hBD3. In contrast, after 96 h CCR6+ and CCR6- T cell proliferation was decreased. Conclusion Collectively, our data indicated that hBD2 and hBD3 play a positive and negative regulatory role in development and proliferation of human effector CD4+ T cells which is essential for optimal adaptive immune responses and the control of immunopathology.

The effects of high and low doses of folic acid on oxidation of protein levels during pregnancy: a randomized double-blind clinical trial

Objective

Oxidants include important active molecules which are created in the body and attack biological molecules especially lipids, carbohydrates, nucleic acids and proteins, and cause oxidation and various diseases in the body. Antioxidants existing in the body help to avoid the incidence of these injuries. Pregnant women are among those where oxidation of biological molecules may do irreparable damage to them and their embryos. So, the purpose of this study was to review the effect of folic acid with both high (5 mg/day) and low (0.5 mg/day) doses on the changes of oxidative protein in reducing plasma homocystein concentration during pregnancy.

Materials and methods

Forty-five pregnant women participated in this study. They were divided into two groups: group 1 included 23 women who received 5 mg/day folic acid and group 2 included 23 women who took 0.5 mg/day folic acid before pregnancy till the 36th week pregnancy. We measured the biochemical variables in the serum of pregnant women at the beginning and at the end of the study.

Results

Folic acid reduced plasma homocytein in both low and high dose groups (p = 0.035, p = 0.012, respectively). Also, the results showed that folic acid prescription led to reduce plasma level of carbonyl groups in both low and high dose groups (p = 0.01, p = 0.03, respectively). Furthermore, the results showed that there is no significant difference between two groups and folic acid affects both groups equally.

Conclusion

It is possible that folic acid administration can reduce plasma homocysteine and carbonyl levels during pregnancy in dose independent manner

Effects of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra) gene 86 bp VNTR polymorphism on recurrent pregnancy loss: a case-control study

Objective

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a heterogeneous disease which is defined as two or more consecutive fetal losses during early pregnancy. Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (

Materials and methods

In this case control study, genetic polymorphism was studied in 140 RPL patients and 140 healthy women as controls. Genomic DNA was extracted from the blood samples and polymorphism analysis was performed using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method. Finally, the data obtained were analyzed by statistical software.

Results

We found an increased frequency of the IL-1Ra 1/1 genotype in the case group compared to the control group. Whereas, the frequency of IL-1Ra genotype 1/2 was higher in control group than in the case group. However, we did not observe an association between

Conclusion

VNTR polymorphism may not be a genetic factor for RPL. However, investigation of

Analysis of cervical lesions for presence of HSV-2 and HPV-16 and HPV-18 in Iranian patients by PCR

Objective Cervical cancer (CC) is one of the leading causes of deaths from cancer among women worldwide. Viral infections is now one of the known risk factors for CC. The aim of this study was to investigate the presence of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), human papilloma virus types 16 (HPV-16) and human papilloma virus types 18 (HPV-18) in Iranian patients with CC using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Materials and methods This case-control study was conducted on a total of 45 patients with CC from Khatam-Al-Anbiya Hospital, Hamadan, Iran during 2014, and 30 samples from healthy subjects as controls. The presence of HSV-2 and HPV-16/18 DNA sequences was detected by PCR. Results Eight of CC patients (17.77%) had HPV-16/18 DNA and only one patient (2.22%) with HSV-2 was identified. These viruses were not detected in control cases. Among HPV-16/18 positive patients, 62.5% and 37.5% biopsies were positive for HPV-16 and HPV-18, respectively. On the other hand, only one case (2.22%) was positive for HPV-16/18, but HSV-2 and this co-infection was not detected in the control group. Conclusion Our results demonstrate that there was no direct molecular evidence to support a cofactor relationship between HSV-2 and HPV-16/18 in cervical malignancies. However, the results about HPV-16/18 was in accordance with previous studies.

Effects of coagulation factor XIII (Val34Leu) polymorphism on recurrent pregnancy loss in Iranian Azeri women

Background:

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a heterogeneous condition consisting of two or more consecutive abortions occurring before 20 weeks of gestation. One of the clotting factor genes encodes factor XIII (

Methods:

A prospective case-control study was performed on a cohort of 310 RPL patients and 290 healthy controls. DNA was extracted from the whole blood and fragments of the Val34Leu polymorphism were amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by DNA sequencing. Genotyping was performed using the Sequenom MassArray system.

Results:

The genotype frequencies of

Conclusions:

No significant association was observed between the Val34Leu polymorphism and RPL among Iranian Azeri women.