Genetic association between ADRB2 rs1042713 and elite athletic performances in the Korean population

Athletic performance is a multifactorial trait influenced by environmental and genetic factors. Previous studies have identified various genes associated with athletic performance, including the β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) gene, which has been consistently shown to be linked with elite athletic performance in diverse populations. The ADRB2 gene is known to play a key role in various biological systems, including cardiovascular, pulmonary, metabolic, and musculoskeletal functions. It acts by interacting with adrenaline. In particular, the ADRB2 rs1042713 (A > G) polymorphism has been associated with cardiovascular and respiratory functions. In addition, the association between the ADRB2 rs1042713 polymorphism and athletic performance has been reported. Thus, we conducted a case-control study to analyze the genetic association with ADRB2 rs1042713 polymorphism with 150 elite athletes, 116 college athletes, and 145 controls (control I) in the Korean population. The genotypes were determined by PCR-RFLP. As a result, we found significant differences in the distributions of genotype (p = 0.005) and allele (p = 0.002) frequencies between elite athletes and the control Ⅱ (control I + college athletes). We also found that the ADRB2 rs1042713 G/G genotype [odds ratio (OR) 2.42, 95% CI 1.384-4.235, p = 0.002] and the G allele (OR 1.58, 95% CI 1.184-2.098, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with elite athletic performance. Additionally, we observed a gender-specific association in female elite athletic performance (p = 0.0002 and p = 0.0002, respectively). In conclusion, our results suggest that the ADRB2 rs1042713 polymorphism may be associated with elite athletic performance in the Korean population. To validate these findings, additional studies with larger samples, including elite athletes from various sports types and diverse ethnic origins are needed.

Association between genetic polymorphisms of synaptophysin (SYP) gene and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Korean subjects

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder, and the prevalence of ADHD among Korean children has attained about 8.5%. Various genetic factors can contribute to the etiology of the disease. Synaptophysin (SYP) regulates neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity. According to previous studies, several genetic polymorphisms on SYP were risk factors for ADHD.

OBJECTIVE

We investigated the effect of the SYP gene polymorphisms (rs2293945 and rs3817678) on ADHD in Korean children.

METHODS

In this study, we examined the case-control study in 150 ADHD cases and 322 controls. The genotyping of SYP gene polymorphisms was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

RESULTS

Significant associations in the genotype and genetic models of SYP rs2293945 polymorphism between girls with ADHD and control girls were found. The girls with ADHD having the C/T genotype were significantly associated with ADHD. In the dominant model of rs3817678, C/T + T/T genotypes were significantly associated with ADHD. The haplotype analyses showed significant associations from haplotypes of rs2293945 T-rs3817678 G and rs2293945 C-rs3817678 A.

CONCLUSION

Our results imply that the SYP rs2293945 C/T polymorphism in female participants may provide a possible effect on the genetic etiology of ADHD.

Lack of association between the VEGFA gene polymorphisms and preterm birth in Korean women

Preterm birth (PTB), a pregnancy-related disease, is defined as a birth before 37 weeks of gestation. It is a major cause of maternal mortality and morbidity worldwide, and its incidence rate is steadily increasing. Various genetic factors can contribute to the etiology of PTB. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) gene is an important angiogenic gene and its polymorphisms have been reported to be associated with PTB development. Therefore, we conducted a case-control study to evaluate the association between VEGFA rs699947, rs2010963, and rs3025039 polymorphisms and PTB in Korean women. A total of 271 subjects (116 patients with PTB and 155 women at ≥38 weeks of gestation) were analyzed in this study. The genotyping of VEGFA gene polymorphisms was performed using polymerase chain reaction- restriction fragment length polymorphism. No significant association between the patients with PTB and the control groups was confirmed. In the combination analysis, we found a significant association between PTB and VEGFA rs699947 CC-rs2010963 GG-rs3025039 CC combination (odds ratio, 3.77; 95% confidence interval, 1.091 to 13.032; p = 0.031). The VEGFA rs699947, rs2010963, and rs3025039 polymorphisms might have no genetic association with the pathogenesis of PTB in Korean women. However, the combination analysis indicates the possibility that VEGFA acts in PTB pathophysiology. Therefore, larger sample sets and replication studies are required to further elucidate our findings.

The association between Adenosine A2A receptor gene polymorphisms and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Korean children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common and heritable neurodevelopmental disorder. Particularly, ADHD is known to be related to the dopaminergic system. ADHD symptoms can appear when the dopamine binding affinity diminishes due to dopamine receptor abnormalities, such as the dopamine D₂ receptor (D₂R). This receptor interacts with the adenosine A_2A receptor (A_2AR). The A_2AR acts as an antagonist of D₂R, that is, the increased binding of adenosine with A_2AR inhibits the D₂R activity. Furthermore, it is found that the single nucleotide polymorphisms of the adenosine A_2A receptor gene (ADORA2A) revealed a significant relationship with ADHD in various populations. Therefore, we examined the genetic relationship between ADORA2A polymorphisms (rs2297838, rs5751876, and rs4822492) and Korean ADHD children. A case-control study was performed for 150 cases and 322 controls. Genotyping of ADORA2A polymorphisms was conducted by PCR-RFLP. The results demonstrated that the rs5751876 TC genotype was associated with children with ADHD (p = 0.018). The rs2298383 CC genotype was significantly associated with children with ADHD/HI (p = 0.026). However, when Bonferroni correction was used, the significance vanished (p_adjusted = 0.054 and p_adjusted = 0.078, respectively). Haplotype analysis showed that TTC, TCC, and CTG demonstrated a significant difference between ADHD/C children and control groups (p_adjusted = 0.006, p_adjusted = 0.011, and p_adjusted = 0.028, respectively). In conclusion, we propose a possible association between ADORA2A polymorphisms with Korean children having ADHD.

Polymorphisms in the FKBP5 gene are associated with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder in Korean children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common and heritable childhood psychiatric disorder. Recently, many studies reported a down-regulated hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA-axis) with low cortisol levels in children with ADHD. The FK506 binding protein 5 or FKBP5 gene regulates the negative feedback of the HPA-axis, and genetic variants in this gene showed an association with ADHD. We investigated the genetic association between FKBP5 gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to ADHD in Korean children. We conducted a case-control study with 150 ADHD children and 322 controls. Genotyping of FKBP5 rs9394309 and rs7748266 was performed by using polymerase chain reaction - restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Our results showed that rs7748266 polymorphism has significant genotype (p = 0.021) and allele (p = 0.009) frequency differences between children with ADHD and the control group. CT genotype [odds ratio (OR) 1.70, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 1.134-2.540, p = 0.010] and T allele (OR 1.54, 95 % CI 1.114-2.117, p = 0.009) were associated with increased risk of ADHD. In addition, dominant (p = 0.006) and over-dominant genetic (p = 0.016) models showed significant associations with ADHD. In the stratified analysis, a significant result was obtained from the girl samples (p = 0.048). The OR of the girls with ADHD with CT genotype was 2.29 (95 % CI 1.170-4.469, p = 0.014). In contrast to rs7748266 polymorphism, rs9394309 polymorphism did not show any significant result (p > 0.05). Haplotype analysis also revealed a significant difference of the TG haplotype for rs7748266 - rs9394309 (p = 0.028, global haplotype association p-value of 0.0091). Conclusively, we confirmed that FKBP5 gene polymorphisms were associated with ADHD in Korean children. These results suggested that FKBP5 may factor in the development of ADHD.

Elevated expression of CDT1 in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia promotes cell proliferation, invasion and migration through activation of EMT

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a malignant disease of the hematopoietic system. At present, the mechanism and pathogenesis of ALL have not been fully clarified. This study aimed to illustrate the roles of Cdc10 protein-dependent transcript 1 (CDT1) in ALL. Real-Time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR) was performed to examine serum levels of CDT1 in childhood ALL patients and healthy volunteers. The interaction between CDT1 expression and prognosis of childhood ALL was analyzed. Meanwhile, expressions of CDT1 in ALL cell lines were determined. Furthermore, CDT1 knockdown model was constructed in ALL cells, and Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), and Transwell assays were conducted to analyze the effect of CDT1 on the biological functions of ALL cells. Potential mechanism was further explored through detecting the expressions of Epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes. RT-qPCR results indicated that serum level of CDT1 in childhood ALL patients was remarkably higher than that of healthy volunteers. Childhood ALL patients with high expression of CDT1 had lower overall survival rate compared with those expressing low expression of CDT1. CDT1 knockdown remarkably decreased the proliferation and metastasis abilities of pediatric ALL cells. Results of western blot showed that CDT1 might contribute to the malignant progression of childhood ALL via activating EMT. The findings showed that elevated CDT1 facilitated ALL metastasis by promoting EMT, suggesting that CDT1 played a pivotal role in ALL metastasis and may serve as a novel prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target.

Folate metabolizing gene polymorphisms and genetic vulnerability to preterm birth in Korean women

BACKGROUND

The folate metabolism that converts homocysteine to methionine is closely related to the accumulation of homocysteine. Increased homocysteine levels lead to an impaired antithrombotic function of the vascular endothelium and uterine-placental circulation, resulting in abnormal pregnancy outcomes. Previous studies have reported that gene polymorphisms in folate metabolism are associated with the development of preterm birth (PTB) in various populations.

OBJECTIVE

we performed a case-control study to evaluate the association between five polymorphisms in folate metabolic genes (MTHFR, MTR, MTRR, TCN2) and PTB.

METHODS

In this study, a total of 254 subjects were analyzed (111 patients with PTB and 143 women at ≥ 38 weeks of gestation). Genotype and allele frequency differences between patients and control groups and the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were assessed using a Chi-square test. For evaluation indicators, odds ratios (ORs) of 95% confidence intervals (CI) were estimated. In addition, we analyzed the combined genotype frequencies of SNPs of folate-metabolizing genes to measure gene-gene interactions for PTB.

RESULTS

Our results showed that the MTR rs1805087 GG (p = 0.031), and TCN2 rs1801198 CG genotype (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.288-0.980, p = 0.042) were significantly associated with PTB. The MTHFR rs4846049 AA showed a marginal trend toward significance (OR 0.15, 95% CI 0.018-1.205, p = 0.041). In particular, the combined genotypes, including MTHFR rs1537514 CC-MTRR rs1801394 GG, MTHFR rs1537514 CC-TCN2 rs1801198 CG, and MTR rs1805087 AA-TCN2 rs1801198 CG, have significant interactions with PTB (OR 0.49, 95% CI 0.248-0.992, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The polymorphisms of folate metabolic genes may have a genetic association with the development of PTB in Korean women. A larger sample set and functional studies are required to further elucidate our findings.

Genetic variations of MTHFR gene and their association with preterm birth in Korean women

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The MTHFR gene encodes the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase known to be involved in the homocysteine-methionine pathway. It has been reported that the deficiency of MTHFR activity may cause hyperhomocysteinemia which results in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Previous studies reported a correlation between the MTHFR gene polymorphisms (677 T/C and 1298 A/C) and lower MTHFR activity and its association with preterm birth in various populations. Since these results were conflicting, we analyzed the genetic association of MTHFR gene 677 T/C and 1298 A/C polymorphisms with preterm birth in Korean women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The subjects for case-control study were collected a total of 226 Korean women (98 preterm-birth patients and 128 controls). Genotype frequency differences between the case and the control were assessed using chi-square tests. Mann-Whitney t-test was used to estimate the effects of 1298 A/C genotype on clinicopathological characteristics (systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, birth weight, and gestational age at delivery) in preterm-birth patients.

RESULTS

Our results showed that the MTHFR 677 C/T polymorphism was significantly associated with preterm-birth patients in the analysis of genotype frequency (P=0.044) and the over-dominant model (OR=0.54; 95% CI, 0.320-0.920; P=0.023). The recessive model showed a marginal trend toward significance (OR=0.47; 95% CI, 0.220-1.010; P=0.046). The 1298 A/C polymorphism was also associated with reduced preterm-birth risk in the recessive model (P=0.032). In the correlation analysis, the 1298 C allele was significantly associated with increasing of gestational age at delivery in preterm-birth patients (P=0.034).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested that the MTHFR gene 677 C/T and 1298 A/C polymorphisms might have protective effects for preterm birth in the Korean women.

Genetic Association of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Gene I/D Polymorphism with Preterm Birth in Korean Women: Case-Control Study and Meta-Analysis

Background and Objectives: The ACE gene encodes the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a component of the renin-angiotensin system. Increased ACE activity may cause abnormal regulation of placental circulation and angiogenesis, resulting in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Previous studies have reported that the insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism of the ACE gene is associated with the development of preterm birth (PTB). However, results of the association between ACE gene I/D and PTB are inconsistent in various populations. Therefore, we performed a case-control study and a meta-analysis to evaluate the association between ACE I/D polymorphism and PTB. Materials and Methods: We analyzed a total of 254 subjects (111 patients with PTB and 143 women at ≥38 weeks gestation) for the case-control study. For the meta-analysis, we searched Google Scholar, PubMed, and NCBI databases with the terms “ACE,” “angiotensin-converting enzyme,” “preterm birth,” “preterm delivery,” and their combinations. Results: Our results of the case-control study indicated that ACE I/D polymorphism is significantly associated with PTBs in the overdominant genetic model (odds ratio (OR) 0.57, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.347–0.949, p = 0.029) and that the ID genotype of ACE I/D polymorphism has a protective effect for PTB (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.333–0.986, p = 0.043). Similarly, the meta-analysis showed that the OR for the ACE gene ID genotype was 0.66 (95% CI 0.490–0.900, p < 0.01). Conclusion: The ACE gene ID genotype has a significant association with PTB and is a protective factor for PTB. A larger sample set and functional studies are required to further elucidate of our findings.

Association of mitochondrial haplogroup F with physical performance in Korean population

Athletic performance is a complex multifactorial trait involving genetic and environmental factors. The heritability of an athlete status was reported to be about 70% in a twin study, and at least 155 genetic markers are known to be related with athlete status. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) encodes essential proteins for oxidative phosphorylation, which is related to aerobic capacity. Thus, mtDNA is a candidate marker for determining physical performance. Recent studies have suggested that polymorphisms of mtDNA are associated with athlete status and/or physical performance in various populations. Therefore, we analyzed mtDNA haplogroups to assess their association with the physical performance of Korean population. The 20 mtDNA haplogroups were determined using the SNaPshot assay. Our result showed a significant association of the haplogroup F with athlete status (odds ratio, 3.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.094 to 8.464; p = 0.012). Athletes with haplogroup F (60.64 ± 3.04) also demonstrated a higher Sargent jump than athletes with other haplogroups (54.28 ± 1.23) (p = 0.041). Thus, our data imply that haplogroup F may play a crucial role in the physical performance of Korean athletes. Functional studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to further substantiate these findings.

[Clinical analysis of nose rhabdomyosarcoma]

Objective:To improve the diagnosis of the nose rhabdomyosarcoma.Method:Twenty-four patients with nose rhabdomyosarcoma were studied retrospectively.Result:Among 24 patients with nose rhabdomyosarcoma, three patients were in stage Ⅰ, four patients were in stage Ⅱ, eleven patients were in stage Ⅲ, and six patients were in stage Ⅳ. Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma is the commonest in all the pathological types. Most patients need comprehensive therapy, including surgery operation, radiotherapy, and multicycle chemotherapy. Prognosis was poor in most of the cases. The survival rate of one year was 70.8% (17/24), and survival rate of three years was 30.3% (8/24).Conclusion:Different surgical protocols should be adopted for different patients, and postoperative chemoradiotherapy should be adopted for advanced treatment. By means of multidisciplinary collaboration, the patient's survival time would be prolonged.

Assessment of associations between mitochondrial DNA haplogroups and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder in Korean children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a multifactorial disorder with multiple environmental and biological etiologies, including genetic factors. Until now, several genetic variants have been reported to be significantly associated with ADHD. Recently, the relationship between mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplogroups and psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia has also been reported. However, currently there are no reports pertaining to the genetic association between mtDNA haplogroups and ADHD. Therefore, we performed an mtDNA haplogroup analysis of a total of 472 Korean children (150 Children with ADHD and 322 controls). The 20 East Asian specific mtDNA haplogroups were determined using the SNaPshot assay. We also sequenced the displacement loop (D-loop) region, position 15,971-613. Our results showed that haplogroup B4 was significantly associated with ADHD (OR, 1.90; 95% CI, 1.055-3.429; p = 0.031). A marginally significant association was found in subjects with ADHD and haplogroup B5 (OR, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.059-1.139; p = 0.041). When stratified based on gender, an association was also observed between haplogroup B5 and boys diagnosed with ADHD (OR, 0.17; 95% CI, 0.022-1.340; p = 0.048). Compared with boys, girls with ADHD carried an excess of the haplogroup D4b (OR, 4.83; 95% CI, 1.352-17.272; p = 0.014). Stratified analysis of subtypes also showed significant results (combined: haplogroup B4, p = 0.007; inattentive: haplogroup F, p = 0.022). Our results showed a possible role of mtDNA haplogroups in the genetic etiology of ADHD and ADHD symptoms in Korean children.

Genetic associations between ADHD and dopaminergic genes (DAT1 and DRD4) VNTRs in Korean children

It is well known that dopaminergic genes affect the development of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in various populations. Many studies have shown that variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) located within the 3'-untranslated region of DAT1 and in exon 3 of DRD4 are associated with ADHD development; however, these results were inconsistent. Therefore, we investigated the genetic association between two VNTRs and ADHD in Korean children. We determined the VNTRs using PCR. We examined genotype and allele frequency differences between the experimental and control groups, along with the odds ratios, using Chi square and exact tests. We observed a significant association between the children with ADHD and the control group in the 10R/10R genotype of DAT1 VNTRs (p = 0.025). In addition, the 11R allele of DAT1 VNTRs showed a higher frequency in the control group than in the ADHD group (p = 0.023). Also, the short repeat (without 11R) and long repeat alleles (including 11R) were associated with ADHD (p < 0.05). The analysis of DRD4 VNTRs revealed that the 2R allele is associated with ADHD (p = 0.025). A significant result was also observed in long and short repeats (p < 0.05). Additionally, ADHD subtypes showed that the DRD4 VNTRs are associated with combined and hyperactive-impulsive subtype groups (p < 0.05). Therefore, our results suggest that DAT1 VNTRs and DRD4 VNTRs play a role in the genetic etiology of ADHD in Korean children.

Association of Monoamine Oxidase A (MAOA) Gene uVNTR and rs6323 Polymorphisms with Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder in Korean Children

Objective: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder. The genetic cause of ADHD is still unclear, but the dopaminergic, serotonergic, and noradrenergic pathways have shown a strong association. In particular, monoamine oxidase A (MAOA) plays an important role in the catabolism of these neurotransmitters, suggesting that the MAOA gene is associated with ADHD. Therefore, we evaluated the relationship between the MAOA gene polymorphisms (uVNTR and rs6323) and ADHD. Materials and methods: We collected a total of 472 Korean children (150 ADHD cases and 322 controls) using the Korean version of the Dupaul Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Rating Scales (K-ARS). Genotyping was performed by PCR and PCR-RFLP. The Behavior Assessment System for Children Second Edition (BASC-2) was used to evaluate the problem behaviors within ADHD children. Results: We observed significant associations between the rs6323 and ADHD in girls (p < 0.05) and the TT genotype was observed as a protective factor against ADHD in the recessive model (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.100⁻0.950, p = 0.022). The 3.5R-G haplotype showed a significant association in ADHD boys (p = 0.043). The analysis of subtype also revealed that the 4.5R allele of uVNTR was a risk factor for the development of ADHD in the combined symptom among girls (OR 1.87, 95% CI 1.014⁻3.453, p = 0.031). In the BASC-2 analysis, the MAOA uVNTR polymorphism was associated with activities of daily living in ADHD boys (p = 0.017). Conclusion: These results suggest the importance of the MAOA gene polymorphisms in the development of ADHD in Korean children. A larger sample set and functional studies are required to further elucidate of our findings.

Preoperative evaluation and surgical technique of functional and cosmetic aspects in zygomatic complex fracture patients

The zygomatico-maxillary complex functions as the principle buttress of the face and is the cornerstone to an individual’s aesthetic appearance. Its fracture not only creates cosmetic deformities owing to its position and facial contour, but can also cause disruption of ocular and mandibular functions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality, efficacy and impact of internal fixation of zygomatic complex fractures on functional and cosmetic outcomes. A prospective study was carried out on 100 patients who were divided according to the classification and the severity of injury. Subjective evaluation was submitted based on the patient’s perception of signs and symptoms in the preoperative and postoperative periods. Intraoperative and postoperative assessment of bone reduction quality was made according to the type of the fracture and related difficulties; also, the difference between these groups was observed as functional and esthetic outcome. To optimize the treatment of zygomatic bone fractures, a pre-designed questionnaire was used for subjective evaluation of symptoms and treatment outcome. In 70% of cases, ophthalmologic consultation was taken and was most common in type VII fractures (100% cases). Neurosensory disturbance was the most common finding (60%), followed by diplopia (56R%), pain upon mouth opening (54%) and malar depression (50%). Out of all possible 400 fracture sites in 100 patients of zygomatic complex fractures, 266 (66.5%) fractures were detected by clinical examination, in contrast to 330 (82.5%) on radiological examination, which were highest at zygomatic-maxillary buttress (93%) followed by infraorbital rim (91%) and almost equal among fronto-zygomatic site (72%) and zygomatic arch (74%). The scores from the questionnaire for annoyance were significantly higher for paraesthesia (23%) than for trismus (10%), pain (8.5%), or deformity (8.25%). Residual deformity and pain significantly influenced the total satisfaction. Conclusively, there are many treatment modalities available for zygomatic complex fractures, and the preferred methods should be selected on the basis of fracture type, fracture severity, pre-operative signs and symptoms. Regarding the requirements of fracture site exposure and actual fixation, one priority should be to minimize postoperative complications, morbidity and residual deformities.

Association between BDNF gene polymorphisms and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Korean children

BACKGROUND

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neuropsychiatric disorder characterized by behavioral problems such as attention deficit, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is the most abundant neurotrophin in the brain.

AIMS

The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between the genotype and alleles for the BDNF gene in Korean children with ADHD.

METHODS

The sample consisted of 180 ADHD children and 159 control children. We diagnosed ADHD according to the DSM-IV. ADHD symptoms were evaluated with Conners' Parent Rating Scales and Dupaul Parent ADHD Rating Scales. Blood samples were taken from the 339 subjects, DNA was extracted from blood lymphocytes, and polymerase chain reaction was performed for BDNF rs6265, rs11030101, rs10835210, rs7103873, and rs2030324 polymorphisms. Alleles and genotype frequencies were compared using the Chi-square test. We compared the allele and genotype frequencies of the BDNF gene polymorphism in the ADHD and control groups.

RESULTS

This study showed that there was a significant correlation among the allele frequencies of the rs11030101 and rs10835210 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (odds ratio=0.61, 95% confidence interval=0.39-0.96, p=0.034), but the final conclusions are not definite. Follow-up studies with larger patient or pure subgroups are expected. These results suggest that the BDNF allelic structure may impact ADHD symptoms.

Association of LPHN3 rs6551665 A/G polymorphism with attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder in Korean children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common and highly heritable disorder of school-age children. Its heritability was estimated at 80-90% but the genetic component underpinning this disorder remains to be disclosed. Recently, a highly consistent association between latrophilin3 (LPHN3) gene and ADHD was reported. In the present study, we examined the association between the LPHN3 rs6551665 A/G polymorphism and ADHD in Korea. The samples used in the study consisted of 150 ADHD children and 322 controls. The ADHD children were diagnosed according to DSM-IV. ADHD symptoms were evaluated with Dupaul Parent ADHD Rating Scales. LPHN3 rs6551665 SNP was determined by PCR-RFLP. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, genotype and allele frequency differences between the case and the control, and odds ratio were examined using the chi-square and exact tests. The LPHN3 gene locus was found to have no deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg expectation. We observed a significant association between the ADHD children and control group in genotype frequency (p=0.01) and allele frequency (p=0.02). The ADHD children appeared to have a surplus of GG genotype (OR 2.959, 95% CI 1.416-6.184, p=0.003) and G allele (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.062-1.945, p=0.02). The association was more distinctive when analysis was confined to male samples (p=0.005), the OR of male controls and cases was 4.029 (95% CI 1.597-10.164, p=0.002) and the OR having G allele vs. A allele was 1.46 (95% CI 1.002-2.127, p=0.048). Thus our results imply that the LPHN3 rs6551665 GG genotype and G allele may provide a significant effect on the ADHD, although larger sample sizes and functional studies are necessary to further elucidate these findings.

Association between monoamine oxidase gene polymorphisms and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in Korean children

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common disorder of the school-age population. ADHD is familial and genetic studies estimate heritability at 80-90%. The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between the genetic type and alleles for the monoamine oxidase (MAO) gene in Korean children with ADHD. The sample consisted of 180 ADHD children and 159 control children. We diagnosed ADHD according to DSM-IV. ADHD symptoms were evaluated with Conners' Parent Rating Scales and Dupaul Parent ADHD Rating Scales. Blood samples were taken from the 339 subjects, DNA was extracted from blood lymphocytes, and polymerase chain reaction was performed for MAO polymorphism. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared using the chi-square test. We compared the allele and genotype frequencies of MAO gene polymorphism in the ADHD and control groups. This study showed that there was a significant correlation among the frequencies of the rs5906883 (odds ratio [OR]=1.47, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.08-2.00, p=0.014) and the rs3027407 (OR=1.41, 95% CI=1.03-1.91, p=0.029) alleles of MAO, but the final conclusions are not definite. Follow-up studies with larger patient or pure subgroups are expected. These results suggested that MAO might be related to ADHD symptoms.

Forensic and population genetic analyses of eighteen non-CODIS miniSTR loci in the Korean population

We analyzed the variation of eighteen miniSTR loci in 411 randomly chosen individuals from Korea to increase the probability that a degraded sample can be typed, as well as to provide an expanded and reliable population database. Six multiplex PCR systems were developed (multiplex I: D1S1677, D2S441 and D4S2364; multiplex II: D10S1248, D14S1434 and D22S1045; multiplex III: D12S391, D16S3253 and D20S161; multiplex IV: D3S4529, D8S1115 and D18S853; multiplex V: D6S1017, D11S4463 and D17S1301; multiplex VI: D5S2500, D9S1122 and D21S1437). Allele frequencies and forensic parameters were calculated to evaluate the suitability and robustness of these non-CODIS miniSTR systems. No significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium expectations were observed, except for D4S2364, D5S2500 and D20S161 loci. A multidimensional scaling plot based on allele frequencies of the six miniSTR loci (D1S1677, D2S441, D4S2364, D10S1248, D14S1434 and D22S1045) showed that Koreans appeared to have most genetic affinity with Chinese and Japanese than to other Eurasian populations compared here. The combined probability of match calculated from the 18 miniSTR loci was 2.902 × 10(-17), indicating a high degree of polymorphism. Thus, the 18 miniSTR loci can be suitable for recovering useful information for analyzing degraded forensic casework samples and for adding supplementary genetic information for a variety of analyses involving closely related individuals where there is a need for additional genetic information.

Identification of nitrogen-fixing Paenibacillus from different plant rhizospheres and a novel nifH gene detected in the P. stellifer

A total of 534 isolates were selectively obtained from different plant rhizospheres based on their growth on nitrogen-free medium and their resistance to 80 degrees C for 15 min. Of the 534 isolates, 23 isolates had nifH gene and exhibited nitrogenase activities. Based on 16S rDNA sequence, G + C content assay and DNA-DNA hybridization, by the 23 isolates, which were divided into four monophyletic clusters, all belonged to the Paenibacillus genus. NifH gene deduced amino acid alignment analysis revealed that cluster I, including 15 isolates, showed the highest NifH identity with Paenibacillus genus; while cluster II identified as P stellifer by DNA-DNA hybridization was consistent with four uncultured bacterial clones. This study suggested that the nitrogen-fixing Paenibacillus were distributed in various ecosystems and prevalent in different plant rhizospheres. It was the first demonstration that nitrogen fixation existed in P. jamilae and P. stellifer. In eight isolates identified as P. stellfer species, a novel nifH gene was detected in Paenibacillus.

Synergistic effect in treatment of C.I. Acid Red 2 by electrocoagulation and electrooxidation

An aqueous C.I. Acid Red 2 solution was decolorized by electrolysis using iron as anode. The decolorization mechanism was investigated through experimental observations on the electrochemical behavior of C.I. Acid Red 2 on Pt rotating disk electrode, UV-visible spectra of the solution and IR spectra of the coagulated mixtures. It is found that the decolorization efficiency is high, over 98.0% after 40 min, and this high decolorization efficiency can be ascribed to the synergistic effect of electrocoagulation and electrooxidation. The electrocoagulation results from the electrogenerated iron hydroxide and the electrooxidation results from electrogenerated ferric ions. The results obtained from IR spectra shows that the decolorization of C.I. Acid Red 2 by electrooxidation is due to the partial or complete cleavage of C-N bonds in C.I. Acid Red 2.

Carboxylic acid functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotube-adsorption onto poly(methyl methacrylate) microspheres

We prepared multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) coated polymeric microspheres i.e., carboxylic acid functionalized MWNT (c-MWNT) adsorbed onto poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microspheres. Initially, the MWNT was functionalized with carboxylic acid functional group and PMMA microspheres were synthesized via a dispersion polymerization method separately. The c-MWNT/PMMA microspheres were then fabricated by blending technique i.e., simple mixing of c-MWNT and PMMA microspheres dispersed solutions under ultrasonication. Surface morphologies of the c-MWNT-adsorbed PMMA microspheres were observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In addition, c-MWNT/PMMA microsphere suspension dispersed in silicone oil showed typical electrorheological characteristics of fibril structure under an applied electric field.

Heteropolymorphism of mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 3 gene for the population analysis of chum salmon, Oncorhynchus keta

Mitochondrial DNAs (mtDNAs) has been frequently used as genetic markers for the population genetic studies. In this study we used chum salmon (Oncorhynchus keta) from Korea, Japan andAmerica, and compared their mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase subunit 3 (ND3) genes by DNA sequence analysis. Sequence variation was studied in the ND3 among total 11 individuals from three populations. The ND3 gene was amplified by PCR targeting parts of cytochrome oxidase III gene (COIII) and NADH dehydrogenase subunit 4L gene (ND4L). ND3 gene sequence, encoded 752 bps, presented some genetic variation in the chum salmon populations. The observed nucleotide variations inferred the distinct genetic differentiation of American salmons from Korean and Japanese chum salmons. Six sites of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) were explored in the ND3 locus. Denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis also showed a clear heterogenous band in American salmons compared to Asian salmons.

Production of a polyclonal anti-myostatin antibody and the effects of in ovo administration of the antibody on posthatch broiler growth and muscle mass

In this study, we produced a polyclonal antibody against unprocessed chicken myostatin and examined the effect of in ovo administration of the antibody on posthatch chicken growth and muscle mass. A PCR-amplified unprocessed chicken myostatin cDNA was cloned into an Escherichia coli expression vector, and myostatin proteins were expressed. Recombinant myostatin purified by electro-elution of the SDS-PAGE fractionated myostatin band was used as an immunogen to produce rabbit polyclonal antimyostatin antibody (pAb-AVM46). In Western blot analysis, the pAb-AVM46 showed high affinity to the myostatin propeptide, but little affinity to the mature myostatin. Two experiments examined the effect of in ovo administration of the pAb-AVM46 on posthatch chicken growth and skeletal muscle mass. In experiment 1, broilers from eggs injected once with 35 microg of the antibody into the yolk on d 3 of incubation had significantly lower combined thigh and leg weight at 4 wk posthatch than the controls that received no injection, or the broilers from eggs received the same dose of antibody into the albumen. In experiment 2, 2 different doses of the antibody (9 or 70 microg) were injected into the yolk, and the effects on body and muscle weight were examined at 5 wk posthatch. Birds from eggs injected with 70 microg of the antibody had significantly lighter (11.6%) combined thigh and leg weight than the control birds. The percentage of the combined thigh and leg weight to BW of the 70-microg group was also significantly lower than that of the control group (20.95 vs. 23.08%). The results of this study indicate that unprocessed full-length myostatin as an immunogen produced antibody populations having affinity mostly to the propeptide with little to the mature form. The decreased muscle weight observed in broilers injected with the antibody in the yolk indicates that myostatin activity was probably elevated by the binding of the antibody to the propeptide, and provides evidence that myostatin propeptide inhibits the biological activity of myostatin in broilers.

Production of a monoclonal anti-myostatin antibody and the effects of in ovo administration of the antibody on posthatch broiler growth and muscle mass

Myostatin, a member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily, is a potent negative regulator of skeletal muscle growth. The objective of this study was to produce a monoclonal anti-myostatin antibody and to examine the effects of in ovo administration of the antibody on posthatch broiler growth and muscle mass. The mature form of myostatin was expressed in Escherichia coli and used as an immunogen in producing a monoclonal antibody against myostatin. One hybridoma clone (mAb-c134) that showed the strongest affinity to the immunogen in Western blot analysis was used in producing a large quantity of monoclonal anti-myostatin antibody. In Western blot analysis, this antibody showed a strong binding affinity to commercially available mature myostatin and demonstrated a certain level of cross-reactivity with recombinant human BMP2 but not with recombinant human TGF-beta3 or porcine TGF-beta1. Competitive ELISA demonstrated binding of the antibody to the native form of mature myostatin in solution. To examine the effects of in ovo administration of the mAb-c134 antibody, eggs were injected once with 40 microg of mAb-c134 in 50 mL of PBS either into the albumen or yolk on d 3 of incubation. Controls received no injection. After hatching, chicks were raised for 35 d. Broilers from eggs that had the antibody injected into the yolk had significantly heavier body (4.2%) and muscle (5.5%) mass than the controls in both male and female birds. In contrast, no significant effects on body and muscle mass were observed when the mAb-c134 antibody was injected into the albumen. The results of this study suggest that immunoneutralization of myostatin during embryonic development is a potential means to improve growth potential of broilers.

Forensic genetic analysis of mitochondrial DNA hypervariable region I/II sequences: An expanded Korean population database

We have analyzed variation of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) hypervariable segments I and II (HVS-I and HVS-II) in 185 randomly chosen individuals from Korea to provide an expanded and reliable Korean database. Combined sequence comparison of HVS-I and HVS-II led to the identification of 167 different haplotypes characterized by 154 variable sites. One hundred and fifty-one of the haplotypes were individual-specific, 14 were found in two individuals and 2 were found in three individuals. A pairwise comparison of the 185 HVS-I/II sequences found an average of 10.11 +/- 4.63 differences between individuals. The random match probability and gene diversity for the combined hypervariable regions were estimated at 0.66% and 0.9988, respectively. Analyzing the expanded database including three previously reported data sets and the present data using haplogroup-based comparisons and comparison with closely related sequences allowed errors to be detected and eliminated, thus considerably improving data quality. Sample division comparisons based on PhiST genetic distance measures revealed no significant population differentiation in the distribution of mtDNA sequence variations between the present data set and a database in The Scientific Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (SWGDAM), but did indicate differences from other sets of data. Based on the results of mtDNA profiles, almost all of the mtDNA types studied here could be classified into subsets of haplogroups common in east Asia, and show that the Koreans possess lineages from both the southern and the northern haplogroup complexes of east Asian populations. The new data, combined with other mtDNA sequences, demonstrate how useful comparison with closely related mtDNA sequences can be for improving database quality, as well as providing haplotype information for forensic and population genetic analyses in the Korean population.

Y-chromosome STR haplotype profiling in the Mongolian population

Eleven Y-chromosome STR loci (DYS19, DYS388, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, two DYS385 loci and DXYS156Y) were analyzed in 92 randomly chosen males from Mongolia. Allelic frequencies and gene diversity for each Y-STR locus and haplotype diversity were determined to evaluate their usefulness in forensic casework. A total of 84 different haplotypes were identified, among which 77 (83.7%) were individual-specific. The most frequent haplotype surveyed here was found in three individuals (3.6%), of which the 'minimal haplotype' (excluding DYS388 and DXYS156Y) was not found in the worldwide Y-STR haplotype reference database (YHRD) available at .

Three-dimensional quantitative structure activity relationship (3D-QSAR) analysis for in vitro toxicity of chlorophenols to HepG2 cells

In the present paper, comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) were applied to investigate two 3D-QSAR models for the cytotoxicity of chlorophenols. These models have evaluated the intensity of chlorophenols' toxicity on HepG2 cells in vitro. The CoMFA model has both high consistency and predictability. The contribution of the electrostatic field to biological activity is greater than that of the steric field. The CoMSIA model used in this study includes two fields, one is hydrophobic field, and the other is electrostatic field. The relative contribution of them is 0.789:0.211. Consisted with the CoMFA model, the CoMSIA electrostatic filed also plays a dominant role. The CoMFA and CoMSIA contour maps significantly elucidated that the electrostatic field is more important than the other fields and might be one of the reasons resulting in potential reactive mechanism involved in cell proliferation inhibition.

Y-chromosomal STR haplotypes and their applications to forensic and population studies in east Asia

We have analyzed 11 Y-STR loci (DYS19, the two DYS385 loci, DYS388, DYS389I/II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393, DXYS156Y) in 700 males from ten ethnic groups in east Asia in order to evaluate their usefulness for forensic and population genetic studies. A total of 644 different haplotypes were identified, among which 603 (86.14%) were individual-specific. The haplotype diversity averaged over all populations was 0.9997; using only the nine Y-STRs comprising the "minimal haplotype" (excluding DYS388 and DXYS156Y) it was 0.9996, a value similar to that found in 1924 samples from other Asian populations (0.9996; Lessig et al. Legal Medicine 5(2003) 160-163), and slightly higher than in European populations (0.9976; n=11,610; Roewer et al. For Sci International (2001) 118:103-111). All of the individual east Asian populations examined here had high haplotype diversity (> or =0.997), except for the Mongolians (0.992) and Manchurians (0.960). The most frequent haplotype identified by the nine markers was present at only 1% (7/700). Population comparisons based on Phi(ST) or rho genetic distance measures revealed clustering according to the traditional northeast-southeast distinction, but with exceptions. For example, the Yunnan population from southern China lay among the northern populations, possibly reflecting recent migration, while the Korean population, traditionally considered northern, lay at the boundary between northern and southern populations. An admixture estimate suggested 55(51-59)% northern, 45(41-49)% southern contribution to the Koreans, illustrating the complexity of the genetic history of this region.

Korean population genetic data for eleven STR loci

Allele frequency and forensic parameters for eleven STR loci were surveyed in a random sample from the Korean population.

Y-chromosome multiplexes and their potential for the DNA profiling of Koreans

We have developed four multiplex genotyping systems (GeneKin Y-STR multiplexes) using silver staining with allelic ladders for ten Y-chromosome STR markers (DYS19, DYS385, DYS388, DYS389I/II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS392, DYS393 and DXYS156Y), with a view towards the application of rapid and simple genotyping assay methods for DNA profiling. The GeneKin Y-STR multiplexes developed have followed the published nomenclature and ISFG guidelines for STR analysis. Allele and haplotype frequencies at these Y-STRs loci were analysed by PCR amplification using the GeneKin Y-STR multiplexes, followed by denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis in 316 unrelated males in the Korean population. A total of 295 different haplotypes were found, 279 of them being unique. Gene diversity ranged from 0.4026 at DYS391 to 0.9606 at DYS385. The haplotype diversity value (which is the same as the discrimination index) calculated from all ten loci combined was 0.9995, which is informative. Our results revealed that a set of ten Y-STRs can discriminate between most of the male individuals in the Korean population (discrimination capacity: 93.35%). The Y-STR multiplexes thus provide useful information for forensic analysis and paternity tests and can also be of great benefit for providing information not normally available from autosomal DNA systems.

Y-chromosome STR haplotype profiling in the Korean population

Allele and haplotype frequencies of seven Y-chromosome STR loci were determined from a sample of 330 unrelated males in the Korean population.

Activated platelets induce secretion of interleukin-1beta, monocyte chemotactic protein-1, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1alpha and surface expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 on cultured endothelial cells

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease. Platelet-endothelium interaction plays an important role in the pathophysiology of atherogenesis. We investigated the role of activated platelets for secretion of interleukin (IL)-1beta, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-1 and macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1alpha and expression of intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 on endothelial cells. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) were incubated with non-stimulated or ADP-activated platelets for 6 hr. Secretion of interleukin (IL)-1beta, MCP-1 and MIP-1alpha and surface expression of ICAM-1 were measured by ELISA and flow cytometry. In the presence of activated platelets, the secretion of IL-1beta, MCP-1, and MIP-1alpha and surface expression of ICAM-1 were significantly increased compared with non-activated platelets. The present study shows that activated platelets may contribute to expression of various inflammatory mediators on endothelial cells.

A novel technique for the effective production of short peptide analogs from concatameric short peptide multimers

We designed a basic unit of the modified chicken gonadotropin releasing hormone II (cGnRH-II) peptide containing a trypsin cleavable linker peptide at both ends of the original peptide. We made a synthetic DNA coding for the modified cGnRH-II peptide with asymmetric and complementary cohesive ends of linker nucleotides. A tandemly repeated DNA cassette for the expression of concatameric short peptide multimers was constructed by ligating the basic units. The expressed peptide multimers were purified and subject to amino-terminal sequence analysis, which displayed the amino acid sequences expected from the designed nucleotides of the expression cassette. The monomeric cGnRH-II peptide analogs were generated after trypsin digestion. The present results showed that the technique developed for the production of the concatameric peptide multimers with cleavable linker peptides can be generally applicable to the production of short peptide analogs.

[Determination of serumal soluble interleukin-2 receptor levels in patients with tonsillitis]

OBJECTIVE

To observe serumal soluble interleukin-2 receptor levels in patients with tonsillitis.

METHOD

SIL-2R levels in serum were detected in 68 patients with acute or chronic tonsillitis and 68 normal controls.

RESULT

The SIL-2R concentrations in patients with acute tonsillitis and in patients with chronic tonsillitis within attacking period were (642.2 +/- 87.2) x 10(3) U/L and (762.3 +/- 90.5) x 10(3) U/L, respectively. Both were significantly higher than those of the controls (285.5 +/- 49.6) x 10(3) U/L (P < 0.001). Moreover the latter was higher than the former (P < 0.001). There was no difference between the patients with chronic tonsillitis within non-attacking period and the controls (P > 0.05). After treatment of antibiotics for 3-5 days, the SIL-2R Concentrations in serum in valid cases were obviously becoming lower.

CONCLUSION

Determination of SIL-2R in serum was valuable for the diagnosis and curative effect judgement of tonsillitis.

ermSF, a ribosomal RNA adenine N6-methyltransferase gene from Streptomyces fradiae, confers MLS (macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B) resistance to E. coli when it is expressed

The Erm family of methyltransferases confers the MLS antibiotic resistance to pathogenic microorganism through the mono- or dimethylation of a single adenine residue in 23S rRNA, which is known as the target site for modification. One of the erm genes, ermSF was cloned from Streptomyces fradiae NRRL 2702 by PCR and overexpressed in E. coli BL21(DE3) as both a soluble protein and insoluble aggregate (inclusion body) using the T7 promoter driven expression vector, pET23b. Even though most of the overexpressed protein existed as an inclusion body, E. coli cells showed resistance to erythromycin. The lowering of incubation temperature from 37 degrees C to 22 degrees C facilitated the purification of the protein by increasing the fraction of soluble protein. The soluble protein was purified using immobilized metal ion (Ni2+) affinity chromatography in a one-step manner to the apparent homogeneity. The 23S rRNA of E. coli was found to be a good substrate for the purified ErmSF.

Isolation of human CYP4F2 genomic DNA and its 5' end regulatory region structure

Human cytochrome P450 4F2 shows high regioselectivity in omega-hydroxylation of stearic acid and leukotriene B4. As a first step of its regulation study, human cytochrome P450 4F2 genomic DNA was isolated from liver of a person who was administered clofibrate for 10 years. From Southern hybridization, restriction enzyme digestion and sequencing experiments, isolated genomic DNA fragment was found to contain around 32 Kb DNA and more than 20 Kb of 5' end regulatory region. Sequences of the structural gene region revealed exon 1 and exon 2. Further regulation studies would elucidate the feedback mechanisms of the oxidative degradation of fatty acids, inflammatory response and the clearance of leukotriene B4 in the liver. Furthermore, regulation study of this gene could explain the species difference in response to peroxisome proliferator and help in the safety evaluation of peroxisome proliferating chemicals to human being.

23S rRNA domain V, a fragment that can be specifically methylated in vitro by the ErmSF (TlrA) methyltransferase

The DNA sequence that encodes 23S rRNA domain V of Bacillus subtilis, nucleotides 2036 to 2672 (C. J. Green, G. C. Stewart, M. A. Hollis, B. S. Vold, and K. F. Bott, Gene 37:261-266, 1985), was cloned and used as a template from which to transcribe defined domain V RNA in vitro. The RNA transcripts served as a substrate in vitro for specific methylation of B. subtilis adenine 2085 (adenine 2058 in Escherichia coli 23S rRNA) by the ErmSF methyltransferase, an enzyme that confers resistance to the macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B group of antibiotics on Streptomyces fradiae NRRL 2702, the host from which it was cloned. Thus, neither RNA sequences belonging to domains other than V nor the association of 23S rRNA with ribosomal proteins is needed for the specific methylation of adenine that confers resistance to the macrolide-lincosamide-streptogramin B group of antibiotics.