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Theodoridou D, Tsiantis CO, Vlaikou AM, Chondrou V, Zakopoulou V, Christodoulides P, Oikonomou ED, Tzimourta KD, Kostoulas C, Tzallas AT, Tsamis KI, Peschos D, Sgourou A, Filiou MD, Syrrou M. Developmental Dyslexia: Insights from EEG-Based Findings and Molecular Signatures-A Pilot Study. Brain Sci 2024; 14:139. [PMID: 38391714 PMCID: PMC10887023 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci14020139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Developmental dyslexia (DD) is a learning disorder. Although risk genes have been identified, environmental factors, and particularly stress arising from constant difficulties, have been associated with the occurrence of DD by affecting brain plasticity and function, especially during critical neurodevelopmental stages. In this work, electroencephalogram (EEG) findings were coupled with the genetic and epigenetic molecular signatures of individuals with DD and matched controls. Specifically, we investigated the genetic and epigenetic correlates of key stress-associated genes (NR3C1, NR3C2, FKBP5, GILZ, SLC6A4) with psychological characteristics (depression, anxiety, and stress) often included in DD diagnostic criteria, as well as with brain EEG findings. We paired the observed brain rhythms with the expression levels of stress-related genes, investigated the epigenetic profile of the stress regulator glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and correlated such indices with demographic findings. This study presents a new interdisciplinary approach and findings that support the idea that stress, attributed to the demands of the school environment, may act as a contributing factor in the occurrence of the DD phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Theodoridou
- Laboratory of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Christos-Orestis Tsiantis
- Laboratory of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Angeliki-Maria Vlaikou
- Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Chondrou
- Laboratory of Biology, School of Science and Technology, Hellenic Open University, 26335 Patras, Greece
| | - Victoria Zakopoulou
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Pavlos Christodoulides
- Department of Speech and Language Therapy, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Emmanouil D Oikonomou
- Department of Informatics and Telecommunications, School of Informatics & Telecommunications, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece
| | - Katerina D Tzimourta
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Western Macedonia, 50100 Kozani, Greece
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Alexandros T Tzallas
- Department of Informatics and Telecommunications, School of Informatics & Telecommunications, University of Ioannina, 47100 Arta, Greece
| | - Konstantinos I Tsamis
- Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Dimitrios Peschos
- Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Argyro Sgourou
- Laboratory of Biology, School of Science and Technology, Hellenic Open University, 26335 Patras, Greece
| | - Michaela D Filiou
- Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Department of Biological Applications and Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Maria Syrrou
- Laboratory of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
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Ladias P, Markopoulos GS, Kostoulas C, Bouba I, Markoula S, Georgiou I. Cancer Associated PRDM9: Implications for Linking Genomic Instability and Meiotic Recombination. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16522. [PMID: 38003713 PMCID: PMC10671843 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The PR domain-containing 9 or PRDM9 is a gene recognized for its fundamental role in meiosis, a process essential for forming reproductive cells. Recent findings have implicated alterations in the PRDM9, particularly its zinc finger motifs, in the onset and progression of cancer. This association is manifested through genomic instability and the misregulation of genes critical to cell growth, proliferation, and differentiation. In our comprehensive study, we harnessed advanced bioinformatic mining tools to delve deep into the intricate relationship between PRDM9F and cancer. We analyzed 136,752 breakpoints and found an undeniable association between specific PRDM9 motifs and the occurrence of double-strand breaks, a phenomenon evidenced in every cancer profile examined. Utilizing R statistical querying and the Regioner package, 55 unique sequence variations of PRDM9 were statistically correlated with cancer, from a pool of 1024 variations. A robust analysis using the Enrichr tool revealed prominent associations with various cancer types. Moreover, connections were noted with specific phenotypic conditions and molecular functions, underlining the pervasive influence of PRDM9 variations in the biological spectrum. The Reactome tool identified 25 significant pathways associated with cancer, offering insights into the mechanistic underpinnings linking PRDM9 to cancer progression. This detailed analysis not only confirms the pivotal role of PRDM9 in cancer development, but also unveils a complex network of biological processes influenced by its variations. The insights gained lay a solid foundation for future research aimed at deciphering the mechanistic pathways of PRDM9, offering prospects for targeted interventions and innovative therapeutic approaches in cancer management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paris Ladias
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45 110 Ioannina, Greece; (P.L.); (C.K.); (I.B.)
| | - Georgios S. Markopoulos
- Neurosurgical Institute, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45 110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45 110 Ioannina, Greece; (P.L.); (C.K.); (I.B.)
| | - Ioanna Bouba
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45 110 Ioannina, Greece; (P.L.); (C.K.); (I.B.)
| | - Sofia Markoula
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45 110 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45 110 Ioannina, Greece; (P.L.); (C.K.); (I.B.)
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Tsirka G, Zikopoulos A, Papageorgiou K, Kostoulas C, Tsigkas I, Moustakli E, Kaltsas A, Sarafi E, Michaelidis TM, Georgiou I. The Ratio of cf-mtDNA vs. cf-nDNA in the Follicular Fluid of Women Undergoing IVF Is Positively Correlated with Age. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1504. [PMID: 37510407 PMCID: PMC10379089 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related mitochondrial markers may facilitate the prognosis of artificial reproductive technology outcomes. In this report, we present our study concerning the ratio of cf-mtDNA/cf-nDNA, namely the amount of cell-free mitochondrial DNA relative to cell-free nuclear DNA, in the follicular fluid (FF) of women undergoing IVF, aiming to generate a molecular fingerprint of oocyte quality. The values of this ratio were measured and compared among three groups of women (101 in total): (A) 31 women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), (B) 34 women younger than 36 years, and (C) 36 women older than 35 years of age. Real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) was performed to quantify the ratio by using nuclear- and mitochondrial-specific primers and analyzed for potential correlation with age and pregnancy rate. Our analysis showed that the level of FF-cf-mtDNA was lower in the group of advanced-age women than in the groups of PCOS and non-PCOS women. Moreover, a significant positive correlation between FF-cf-mtDNA and the number of mature (MII) oocytes was observed. Collectively, the data show that the relative ratio of cf- mtDNA to cf-nDNA content in human FF can be an effective predictor for assessing the corresponding oocyte's age-related performance in IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgia Tsirka
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - Kyriaki Papageorgiou
- Department of Biological Applications & Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 45115 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioannis Tsigkas
- Department of Biological Applications & Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 45115 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Efthalia Moustakli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Aris Kaltsas
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Department of Urology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Eleftheria Sarafi
- Department of Biological Applications & Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 45115 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Theologos M Michaelidis
- Department of Biological Applications & Technology, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Biomedical Research Institute, Foundation for Research and Technology-Hellas, 45115 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
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Bozidis P, Tsaousi ET, Kostoulas C, Sakaloglou P, Gouni A, Koumpouli D, Sakkas H, Georgiou I, Gartzonika K. Unusual N Gene Dropout and Ct Value Shift in Commercial Multiplex PCR Assays Caused by Mutated SARS-CoV-2 Strain. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12040973. [PMID: 35454022 PMCID: PMC9029054 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12040973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Several SARS-CoV-2 variants have emerged and early detection for monitoring their prevalence is crucial. Many identification strategies have been implemented in cases where sequencing data for confirmation is pending or not available. The presence of B.1.1.318 among prevalent variants was indicated by an unusual amplification pattern in various RT-qPCR commercial assays. Positive samples for SARS-CoV-2, as determined using the Allplex SARS-CoV-2 Assay, the Viasure SARS-CoV-2 Real Time Detection Kit and the GeneFinder COVID-19 Plus RealAmp Kit, presented a delay or failure in the amplification of the N gene, which was further investigated. Whole-genome sequencing was used for variant characterization. The differences between the mean Ct values for amplification of the N gene vs. other genes were calculated for each detection system and found to be at least 14 cycles. Sequencing by WGS revealed that all the N gene dropout samples contained the B.1.1.318 variant. All the isolates harbored three non-synonymous mutations in the N gene, which resulted in four amino acid changes (R203K, G204R, A208G, Met234I). Although caution should be taken when the identification of SARS-CoV-2 variants is based on viral gene amplification failure, such patterns could serve as a basis for rapid and cost-effective screening, functioning as indicators of community circulation of specific variants, requiring subsequent verification via sequencing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petros Bozidis
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (E.T.T.); (P.S.); (K.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-265-100-7772
| | - Eleni T. Tsaousi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (E.T.T.); (P.S.); (K.G.)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (C.K.); (I.G.)
| | - Prodromos Sakaloglou
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (E.T.T.); (P.S.); (K.G.)
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (C.K.); (I.G.)
| | - Athanasia Gouni
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece; (A.G.); (D.K.)
| | - Despoina Koumpouli
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece; (A.G.); (D.K.)
| | - Hercules Sakkas
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (E.T.T.); (P.S.); (K.G.)
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece; (A.G.); (D.K.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (C.K.); (I.G.)
| | - Konstantina Gartzonika
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (E.T.T.); (P.S.); (K.G.)
- Department of Microbiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece; (A.G.); (D.K.)
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Kastrisiou M, Zarkavelis G, Kougioumtzi A, Sakaloglou P, Kostoulas C, Georgiou I, Batistatou A, Pentheroudakis G, Magklara A. Development and Validation of a Targeted ‘Liquid’ NGS Panel for Treatment Customization in Patients with Metastatic Colorectal Cancer. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11122375. [PMID: 34943612 PMCID: PMC8700616 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11122375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The detection of actionable mutations in tumor tissue is a prerequisite for treatment customization in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Analysis of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) for the identification of such mutations in patients’ plasma is an attractive alternative to invasive tissue biopsies. Despite having the high analytical sensitivity required for ctDNA analysis, digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR) technologies can only detect a very limited number of hotspot mutations, whilst a broader mutation panel is currently needed for clinical decision making. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have led to high-sensitivity platforms that allow screening of multiple genes at a single assay. Our goal was to develop a small, cost- and time-effective NGS gene panel that could be easily integrated in the day-to-day clinical routine in the management of patients with mCRC. We designed a targeted panel comprising hotspots in six clinically relevant genes (KRAS, NRAS, MET, BRAF, ERBB2 and EGFR) and validated it in a total of 68 samples from 30 patients at diagnosis, first and second disease progression. Results from our NGS panel were compared against plasma testing with BEAMing dPCR regarding the RAS gene status. The overall percent of agreement was 83.6%, with a positive and negative percent agreement of 74.3% and 96.2%, respectively. Further comparison of plasma NGS with standard tissue testing used in the clinic showed an overall percent agreement of 86.7% for RAS status, with a positive and negative percent agreement of 81.2% and 92.8%, respectively. Thus, our study strongly supports the validity and efficiency of an affordable targeted NGS panel for the detection of clinically relevant mutations in patients with mCRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrto Kastrisiou
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (M.K.); (A.K.)
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
- Society for Study of Clonal Heterogeneity of Neoplasia (EMEKEN), 45444 Ioannina, Greece
| | - George Zarkavelis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
- Society for Study of Clonal Heterogeneity of Neoplasia (EMEKEN), 45444 Ioannina, Greece
| | - Anastasia Kougioumtzi
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (M.K.); (A.K.)
| | - Prodromos Sakaloglou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (P.S.); (C.K.); (I.G.)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (P.S.); (C.K.); (I.G.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (P.S.); (C.K.); (I.G.)
| | - Anna Batistatou
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - George Pentheroudakis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
- Society for Study of Clonal Heterogeneity of Neoplasia (EMEKEN), 45444 Ioannina, Greece
- Correspondence: (G.P.); (A.M.)
| | - Angeliki Magklara
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (M.K.); (A.K.)
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Foundation for Research and Technology, 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Institute of Biosciences, University Research Center of Ioannina (URCI), 45110 Ioannina, Greece
- Correspondence: (G.P.); (A.M.)
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Bouba I, Hatzi E, Ladias P, Sakaloglou P, Kostoulas C, Georgiou I. Biological and Clinical Significance of Mosaicism in Human Preimplantation Embryos. J Dev Biol 2021; 9:18. [PMID: 34066950 PMCID: PMC8162329 DOI: 10.3390/jdb9020018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Applications and indications of assisted reproduction technology are expanding, but every new approach is under scrutiny and thorough consideration. Recently, groups of assisted reproduction experts have presented data that support the clinical use of mosaic preimplantation embryos at the blastocyst stage, previously excluded from transfer. In the light of published contemporary studies, with or without clinical outcomes, there is growing evidence that mosaic embryos have the capacity for further in utero development and live birth. Our in-depth discussion will enable readers to better comprehend current developments. This expansion into the spectrum of ART practices requires further evidence and further theoretical documentation, basic research, and ethical support. Therefore, if strict criteria for selecting competent mosaic preimplantation embryos for further transfer, implantation, fetal growth, and healthy birth are applied, fewer embryos will be excluded, and more live births will be achieved. Our review aims to discuss the recent literature on the transfer of mosaic preimplantation embryos. It also highlights controversies as far as the clinical utilization of preimplantation embryos concerns. Finally, it provides the appropriate background to elucidate and highlight cellular and genetic aspects of this novel direction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Bouba
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (I.B.); (P.L.); (P.S.); (C.K.)
| | - Elissavet Hatzi
- IVF and Genetics Unit, Dept of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
| | - Paris Ladias
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (I.B.); (P.L.); (P.S.); (C.K.)
| | - Prodromos Sakaloglou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (I.B.); (P.L.); (P.S.); (C.K.)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (I.B.); (P.L.); (P.S.); (C.K.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (I.B.); (P.L.); (P.S.); (C.K.)
- IVF and Genetics Unit, Dept of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Ioannina, 45500 Ioannina, Greece;
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Efstathiadou ZA, Kostoulas C, Polyzos SA, Adamidou F, Georgiou I, Kita M. A mutation in NOTCH2 gene first associated with Hajdu-Cheney syndrome in a Greek family: diversity in phenotype and response to treatment. Endocrine 2021; 71:208-215. [PMID: 32772338 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02446-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hajdu-Cheney Syndrome (HCS) is a rare genetic autosomal dominant disorder, characterized by distinctive facial features, acroosteolysis, and severe osteoporosis. Very rarely HCS is associated with polycystic kidney disease, splenomegaly or Crohn's disease (CD). It is caused by gain-of-function mutations in NOTCH2 gene. Treatment with bisphosphonates or denosumab is reported to result in BMD increase. OBJECTIVE We report a mutation in exon 34 of NOTCH2 gene, in a Greek pedigree, with diverse phenotypes among members. DESCRIPTION OF THE PEDIGREE The 48-year-old mother had a history of a T12 vertebral fracture, postpartum at the age of 21 and two subsequent uneventful full-term pregnancies and never received treatment. Her 29-year-old son, presented with severe osteoporosis and multiple morphological vertebral fractures. Her 21-year-old daughter had recurrent vertebral fractures starting at 10 years of age. At 17 years, she developed severe CD, resistant to treatment with biologic agents, and functional hypothalamic hypogonadism. One male pedigree died of cystic fibrosis. All subjects bore the typical facial characteristics and acroosteolysis, while none had splenomegaly or renal defects. Zoledronate infusion led to BMD increase. GENETIC TESTING Mutation in c.6758 G > A (NM_008163.1), leading to a Trp2253Ter replacement. This mutation has been reported as possibly pathogenic (SCV000620308), but not in association with HCS. CONCLUSIONS Bone involvement can present with diverse severity in the same pedigree, ranging from low BMD to multiple fragility fractures. Antiresorptive therapy improves BMD, but its anti-fracture efficacy remains to be shown. The presence of CD might indicate the significant role of NOTCH2 signaling in different tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe A Efstathiadou
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Stergios A Polyzos
- First Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Fotini Adamidou
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Marina Kita
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Efstathiadou ZA, Kostoulas C, Polyzos SA, Adamidou F, Georgiou I, Kita M. Correction to: A mutation in NOTCH2 gene first associated with Hajdu-Cheney syndrome in a Greek family: diversity in phenotype and response to treatment. Endocrine 2020; 70:659-660. [PMID: 33025564 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02479-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe A Efstathiadou
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Stergios A Polyzos
- First Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Fotini Adamidou
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Marina Kita
- Department of Endocrinology, "Hippokration" General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Markoula S, Siarava E, Kostoulas C, Zikopoulos A, Georgiou I. An open study of valproate in subfertile men with epilepsy. Acta Neurol Scand 2020; 142:317-322. [PMID: 33378111 DOI: 10.1111/ane.13311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 06/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the study was to assess whether, male patients with epilepsy, switching from valproic acid (VPA) to levetiracetam (LEV) or lamotrigine (LMG) critically improves sperm counts and parameters, increasing chance of patients' female partners to spontaneously conceive. MATERIALS AND METHODS This is an observational prospective study recruiting all consecutive infertile male patients with epilepsy followed up at the outpatient Epilepsy Clinic of University Hospital of Ioannina, Northwest Greece. Infertile couples were referred to the Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction and Treatment of the University Hospital of Ioannina to conduct semen analysis. The first sample was collected while the patients were receiving VPA, and the second semen sample was collected after the patients were switched to LEV or LMG. RESULTS Seventeen infertile male patients were recruited in the study. Nine patients were switched to LEV, and eight patients were switched to LMG. The mean sperm count increased after VPA withdraw P = .06. Motility was improved with an increase of total motility and non-progressive motility (P = .02 and P = .03, accordingly), whether sperm defects were decreased, mainly head defects (P = .03). Differences between patients switched to LEV or LMG were minimal and showed no significant findings. Spontaneous pregnancies were reported in three of the patients' partners, without any other clinical intervention offered to the couple. CONCLUSION Switching from valproic acid to levetiracetam or lamotrigine improved sperm counts and other sperm parameters in subfertile male patients and increased the chance of spontaneously conceiving in subfertile couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Markoula
- Department of Neurology University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
- University Hospital of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
| | - Eleftheria Siarava
- Department of Neurology University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
- University Hospital of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
| | | | | | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction University of Ioannina Ioannina Greece
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Tsianos VE, Kostoulas C, Gazouli M, Frillingos S, Georgiou I, Christodoulou DK, Katsanos KH, Tsianos EV. ATG16L1 T300A polymorphism is associated with Crohn's disease in a Northwest Greek cohort, but ECM1 T130M and G290S polymorphisms are not associated with ulcerative colitis. Ann Gastroenterol 2019; 33:38-44. [PMID: 31892796 PMCID: PMC6928472 DOI: 10.20524/aog.2019.0434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are well-described disease entities with unknown etiopathogenesis. Environmental, genetic, gut microbiota, and host immune response correlations have been implicated. The role of susceptibility gene polymorphisms, such as ATG16L1 T300A and ECM1 T130M and G290S, is well-described, although controversial findings have been reported. Methods: Two hundred five patients with inflammatory bowel disease (108 CD and 97 UC), and 223 healthy blood donors (control group) from the Northwest Greece region were genotyped for rs2241880 (T300A), rs3737240 (T130M) and rs13294 (G290S) single nucleotide polymorphisms. Genotyping was performed using the real-time polymerase chain reaction method. Results: The frequency of G allele was significantly higher in CD patients compared to the control group (P=0.029; odds ratio [OR] 1.45, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04-2.03). Carriers of two G alleles (T300A), compared to those carrying only one, were 1.3 times more susceptible to CD (P=0.022; OR 2.45, 95%CI 1.14-5.27). In CD patients, the presence of the T300A polymorphism indicates a possible protective effect against developing a penetrating (B3) phenotype, while in UC patients, presence of the T300A polymorphism, indicates a possible protective effect against developing joint-involving extraintestinal manifestations. Conclusion: Our study found a significant association of the T300A polymorphism with CD susceptibility, suggesting that CD occurrence in our population has a strong genetic background, with the T300A G allele having an additive effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasileios E Tsianos
- Research Laboratory of Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina (Vasileios E. Tsianos)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina (Charilaos Kostoulas, Ioannis Georgiou)
| | - Maria Gazouli
- Laboratory of Biology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (Maria Gazouli)
| | - Stathis Frillingos
- Laboratory of Biological Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina (Stathis Frillingos)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics in Clinical Practice, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina (Charilaos Kostoulas, Ioannis Georgiou)
| | - Dimitrios K Christodoulou
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina (Dimitrios K. Christodoulou, Konstantinos H. Katsanos)
| | - Konstantinos H Katsanos
- Department of Gastroenterology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina (Dimitrios K. Christodoulou, Konstantinos H. Katsanos)
| | - Epameinondas V Tsianos
- Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina (Epameinondas V. Tsianos), Greece
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Lazaros L, Kitsou C, Kostoulas C, Bellou S, Hatzi E, Ladias P, Stefos T, Markoula S, Galani V, Vartholomatos G, Tzavaras T, Georgiou I. Retrotransposon expression and incorporation of cloned human and mouse retroelements in human spermatozoa. Fertil Steril 2017; 107:821-830. [PMID: 28139237 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.12.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of long interspersed element (LINE) 1, human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) K10, and short interspersed element-VNTR-Alu element (SVA) retrotransposons in ejaculated human spermatozoa by means of reverse-transcription (RT) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis as well as the potential incorporation of cloned human and mouse active retroelements in human sperm cell genome. DESIGN Laboratory study. SETTING University research laboratories and academic hospital. PATIENT(S) Normozoospermic and oligozoospermic white men. INTERVENTION(S) RT-PCR analysis was performed to confirm the retrotransposon expression in human spermatozoa. Exogenous retroelements were tagged with a plasmid containing a green fluorescence (EGFP) retrotransposition cassette, and the de novo retrotransposition events were tested with the use of PCR, fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis, and confocal microscopy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Retroelement expression in human spermatozoa, incorporation of cloned human and mouse active retroelements in human sperm genome, and de novo retrotransposition events in human spermatozoa. RESULT(S) RT-PCR products of expressed human LINE-1, HERV-K10, and SVA retrotransposons were observed in ejaculated human sperm samples. The incubation of human spermatozoa with either retrotransposition-active human LINE-1 and HERV-K10 or mouse reverse transcriptase-deficient VL30 retrotransposons tagged with an EGFP-based retrotransposition cassette led to EGFP-positive spermatozo; 16.67% of the samples were positive for retrotransposition. The respective retrotransposition frequencies for the LINE-1, HERV-K10, and VL30 retrotransposons in the positive samples were 0.34 ± 0.13%, 0.37 ± 0.17%, and 0.30 ± 0.14% per sample of 10,000 spermatozoa. CONCLUSION(S) Our results show that: 1) LINE-1, HERV-K10, and SVA retrotransposons are transcriptionally expressed in human spermatozoa; 2) cloned active retroelements of human and mammalian origin can be incorporated in human sperm genome; 3) active reverse transcriptases exist in human spermatozoa; and 4) de novo retrotransposition events occur in human spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leandros Lazaros
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics of Human Reproduction, Medical School, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece; Medical Genetics and Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ioannina University Hospital, Ioannina, Greece; Genesis-Genoma Lab, Chalandri-Athens, Greece
| | - Chrysoula Kitsou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics of Human Reproduction, Medical School, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics of Human Reproduction, Medical School, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Sofia Bellou
- Foundation for Research & Technology-Hellas Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Department of Biomedical Research, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Elissavet Hatzi
- Medical Genetics and Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ioannina University Hospital, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Paris Ladias
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics of Human Reproduction, Medical School, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Theodoros Stefos
- Medical Genetics and Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ioannina University Hospital, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Sofia Markoula
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics of Human Reproduction, Medical School, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Vasiliki Galani
- Department of Anatomy-Histology-Embryology, Medical School, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Georgios Vartholomatos
- Hematology Laboratory, Molecular Biology Unit, Ioannina University Hospital, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Theodore Tzavaras
- Department of General Biology, Medical School, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics of Human Reproduction, Medical School, Ioannina University, Ioannina, Greece; Medical Genetics and Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ioannina University Hospital, Ioannina, Greece.
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Markoula S, Giannopoulos S, Asproudis I, Kostoulas C, Nikas A, Bagli E, Kyritsis AP, Georgiou I. Renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system genes and nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy. Mol Vis 2011; 17:1254-60. [PMID: 21633717 PMCID: PMC3103746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2010] [Accepted: 05/03/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Recent literature suggests a genetic component for non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION). We examined the association of the insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism of the angiotensin-converting enzyme gene, of the M235T polymorphism of the angiotensinogen gene, and of the A1166C polymorphism of the angiotensin II type 1 receptor gene with NAION. METHODS Forty-seven patients with NAION and 76 controls, age- and gender-matched, were recruited and genotyped for renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) genes. Genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction and restriction enzyme analysis. NAION and control groups were compared in regard to the prevalence of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system polymorphisms, and further stratified by age and gender. RESULTS NAION occurrence was not associated with the M235T polymorphism of the angiotensinogen gene and the A1166C polymorphism of the angiotensin II, type 1 receptor gene. Regarding the angiotensin-converting enzyme insertion/deletion polymorphism, our findings suggest that the II genotype could be a risk factor for NAION in younger male patients when compared to all cases and controls (p=0.033, odds ratio=5.71, confidence interval=1.152¨C28.35 and p=0.03, odds ratio=5.33, confidence interval=1.17¨C24.31 respectively). Furthermore I allele was present in all male patients younger than 55 years, making this allele a likely predisposing factor for NAION in young males. CONCLUSIONS Since NAION may occur when compromised watershed microcirculation is combined with insufficient autoregulation of systematic circulation, polymorphisms of genes involved in systematic circulation, such as the RAAS genes, may be associated with NAION occurrence. Large-scale, multicentered, controlled prospective studies are needed to further explore the effects of RAAS polymorphisms or other genetic factors on NAION susceptibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Markoula
- Department of Neurology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Sotirios Giannopoulos
- Department of Neurology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Ioannis Asproudis
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Alexios Nikas
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Eleni Bagli
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece
| | | | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
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Markoula S, Giannopoulos S, Kostoulas C, Tatsioni A, Bouba I, Maranis S, Georgiou I, Kyritsis AP. Gender association of the angiotensin-converting enzyme gene with ischaemic stroke. J Renin Angiotensin Aldosterone Syst 2011; 12:510-5. [DOI: 10.1177/1470320310391333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the association of the NG011648 polymorphism (insertion/deletion) of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene with ischaemic stroke occurrence, subtype of ischaemic stroke and ischaemic stroke patients’ gender. Patients with first ever ischaemic stroke were recruited prospectively in a period of 18 months. Controls were matched with the patients for age, gender, and known risk factors for stroke. Demographic data, medical history, and vascular risk factors were collected. Genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction enzyme analysis. Stroke and control groups were compared in regard to the prevalence of the NG011648 polymorphism. One hundred and seventy-six patients with ischaemic stroke and 178 controls were recruited and genotyped for NG011648 polymorphism (I/D) of the ACE gene. No significant difference in allele and genotype distributions emerged between control and patient groups, nor in the two subtype groups of lacunars and large artery atherosclerosis. After the data were stratified by gender, a low incidence of II homozygosity in female patients versus female controls ( p = 0.05) and male patients ( p = 0.013, Z score: -2.49) was found. Our results indicate that I/D polymorphisms may have a role in stroke onset, in respect to gender, with a possible favourable effect of II genotype in females.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sofia Markoula
- Department of Neurology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Greece
| | | | | | | | - Ioanna Bouba
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Ioannina, Greece
| | - Sotirios Maranis
- Department of Neurology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Greece
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, University Hospital of Ioannina, Greece
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