Antibodies Reactive to Leptin in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes and Its Relationship with Clinical, Metabolic and Cardiovascular Risk Parameters

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2D) have shown alterations in the affinity of IgG anti-leptin antibodies which are possibly related to metabolic alterations. In the present exploratory study, we analyzed serum samples from adults with T2D classified by body mass index (BMI) and evaluated the relationship of IgG anti-leptin antibodies with body composition, metabolic and cardiovascular risk parameters.

METHODS

Serum IgG anti-leptin antibodies (total, free and immune complexes fractions) were measured by in-house ELISA. Body composition, metabolic biomarkers (glucose, glycated hemoglobin, lipid profile, insulin, leptin) and cardiometabolic risk indexes (AIP, HOMA-IR, HOMA-ß) were evaluated in one hundred T2D patients.

RESULTS

Patients with T2D and obesity presented a decrease in the percentage of IgG anti-leptin immune complexes compared to patients with T2D and overweight (p < 0.0053). Negative correlations of IgG anti-leptin immune complexes with triglycerides (TG) (r=-0.412, p = 0.023) and VLDL-C (r=-0.611, p = 0.017) were found in normal weight T2D patients. Free IgG anti-leptin antibodies correlated positively with TC (r = 0.390, p = 0.032) and LDL-C (r = 0.458, p = 0.011) in overweight individuals with T2D. Finally, total IgG anti-leptin antibodies correlated positively with leptin hormone levels (r = 0.409, p = 0.024) and negatively with HOMA-IR (r =-0.459, p = 0.012) in T2D patients with obesity.

CONCLUSIONS

The decrease of IgG anti-leptin immune complexes observed in patients with T2D and obesity suggests a reduction in antibody affinity to the hormone that may impact its transport and signaling, lipid, lipoprotein and insulin metabolism.

BAFFR expression in circulating T follicular helper (CD4+CXCR5+PD-1+) and T peripheral helper (CD4+CXCR5-PD-1+) cells in systemic lupus erythematosus

BACKGROUND

Circulating T follicular helper (cTfh) and T peripheral helper (Tph) subpopulations are shown to be higher in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and have been involved in promoting extrafollicular B cell responses. However, a possible association with the B cell activating factor (BAFF), a cytokine mainly related to B cell responses and disease activity in SLE, has not been investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association of cTfh and Tph subpopulations with the BAFF system expression and clinical activity in SLE patients.

METHODS

This study included 43 SLE patients and 12 healthy subjects (HS). The identification of cTfh (CD4+CXCR5+PD-1+), Tph (CD4+CXCR5-PD-1+) cells, expression of membrane-bound BAFF (mBAFF), BAFFR, TACI, BCMA, and intracellular IL-21 was performed by flow cytometry. Serum levels of IL-21, CXCL13, and BAFF were analyzed using ELISA. The SLEDAI-2K score was used to evaluate disease activity in SLE patients.

RESULTS

Compared with HS, SLE patients showed a significantly increased percentage of cTfh and Tph cells, higher in patients with clearly active disease. SLE patients had markedly higher IL-21-producing cTfh and Tph cells than HS. Both subpopulations were positively correlated with the disease activity in SLE patients. Tph cells were negatively correlated with CD19+CXCR5+ B cells and positively correlated with CD19+CXCR5- B cells. A low expression of mBAFF and their receptors TACI and BCMA was found on cTfh and Tph cells in SLE patients and HS. However, SLE patients with clearly active disease showed decreased expression of BAFFR on cTfh and Tph subpopulations than patients with mildly active/nonactive disease. Serum IL-21, CXCL13, and BAFF levels were higher in SLE patients than in HS. Levels of CXCL13 were correlated with disease activity. Non-significant correlations were observed among T cell subpopulations and IL-21, CXCL13, and BAFF levels.

CONCLUSIONS

This study emphasizes the importance of cTfh and Tph cells in SLE pathogenesis. Besides the importance of IL-21, our results suggest that BAFFR could play a role in cTfh and Tph subpopulations in the autoimmunity context.

Influence of nitric oxide signaling mechanisms in cancer

Nitric oxide (NO) is a molecule with multiple biological functions that is involved in various pathophysiological processes such as neurotransmission and blood vessel relaxation as well as the endocrine system, immune system, growth factors, and cancer. However, in the carcinogenesis process, it has a dual behavior; at low doses, NO regulates homeostatic functions, while at high concentrations, it promotes tissue damage or acts as an agent for immune defense against microorganisms. Thus, its participation in the carcinogenic process is controversial. Cancer is a multifactorial disease that presents complex behavior. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms associated with the initiation, promotion, and progression of neoplastic processes is required. Some hypotheses have been proposed regarding the influence of NO in activating oncogenic pathways that trigger carcinogenic processes, because NO might regulate some signaling pathways thought to promote cancer development and more aggressive tumor growth. Additionally, NO inhibits apoptosis of tumor cells, together with the deregulation of proteins that are involved in tissue homeostasis, promoting spreading to other organs and initiating metastatic processes. This paper describes the signaling pathways that are associated with cancer, and how the concentration of NO can serve a beneficial or pathological function in the initiation and promotion of neoplastic events.

Th1/Th2 Balance in Young Subjects: Relationship with Cytokine Levels and Metabolic Profile

Purpose

We aim to identify Th1 and Th2 cell clusters in young subjects, including their clinical and metabolic characteristics and the Th1/Th2 balance.

Patients and Methods

A total of 100 participants were included. The frequencies of Th1 and Th2 cells in peripheral blood were determined by flow cytometry. Serum C-reactive protein was measured using a turbidimetric assay, and insulin levels were quantified with an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Circulating cytokine levels were analyzed using a multiplex system.

Results

A cluster analysis was performed to determine the Th1/Th2 balance in a group of young people, and 3 clusters were formed with the following characteristics: 1) subjects with a higher prevalence of hyperglycemia (38%), dyslipidemia (38–75%), and insulin resistance (50%), as well as a higher percentage of Th1 cells and Th1/Th2 ratio, including elevated IFN-ɣ levels; 2) subjects with a lower prevalence of hyperglycemia (23%) and insulin resistance (15.4%), but a higher prevalence of dyslipidemia (8–85%) with a predominance of Th2 cells, and lower Th1/Th2 ratio; 3) subjects with a lower prevalence of hyperglycemia (6%), insulin resistance (41%), and dyslipidemia (10–63%), as well as a balance of Th1 and Th2 cells and lower Th1/Th2 ratio, including low IFN-ɣ levels. Positive correlations between Th1 cells with IFN-γ, IL-12, and IL-1β and between Th2 cells with IFN-γ, IL-2, and IL-4 were found (p < 0.05). A significant increase in Th1 cells was observed in the presence of hyperglycemia and high LDL-C levels, as well as increased Th2 cells in the absence of abdominal obesity and high blood pressure, including low HDL-C levels. The Th1/Th2 ratio was higher in the group with high cardiometabolic risk (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Th1/Th2 balance is related to metabolic abnormalities that may occur in young population, and thus the timely identification of different phenotypes may help predict an increased cardiometabolic risk.

A potential inflammatory role of IL-31 in psoriatic arthritis: A correlation with Th17 cytokine profile

The goals of our study were to determine the possible association of interleukin (IL)-31 with Th17 cytokine profile in serum and to quantify retinoic acid-related orphan receptor C (RORC) mRNA expression in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) patients. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 50 patients with PsA and 30 control subjects (CS) matched by age and gender. The cytokine serum levels were quantified by magnetic bead–based assay using the Bio-Plex MAGPIX system, and RORC mRNA expression was determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). As a result, significant differences in IL-31 were observed between study groups (77.23 pg/mL in PsA vs 64.4 pg/mL in CS, P < 0.001) and Th17 cytokine profile serum levels (IL-17A: 6.36 pg/mL in PsA vs 2.97 pg/mL in CS, P = 0.02; IL-17F: 44.15 pg/mL in PsA vs 23.36 pg/mL in PsA, P = 0.01; IL-17E: 3.03 pg/mL in PsA vs 0.82 pg/mL in CS, P < 0.001; IL-21: 36.45 pg/mL in PsA vs 12.44 pg/mL in CS, P = 0.02); however, significant differences were not observed for IL-23 (31.2 pg/mL in PsA vs 53.26 pg/mL in CS, P = 0.58). Furthermore, positive correlations between IL-31 and Th17 cytokine profile serum levels were found (IL-17A: r_s = 0.64, P < 0.001; IL-17F: r_s = 0.73, P < 0.001; IL-17E: r_s = 0.70, P < 0.001; IL-21: r_s = 0.54, P = 0.002; IL-23: r_s = 0.5, P < 0.01). Regarding RORC gene expression, the PsA group showed an increase of 6.85-fold compared to the CS group. We did not find any association between the serum levels of cytokines and RORC gene expression. In conclusion, in PsA, there are increased serum levels of IL-31, IL-17A, IL-17F, IL-17E, and IL-21, but not IL-23. Moreover, there was a positive correlation of IL-31 with the Th17 cytokine profile and a high RORC gene expression. Altogether, these findings suggest a proinflammatory contribution of IL-31 in close association with the Th17 cytokine profile in PsA.

Presence of Adenovirus-36 DNA in Adipose Tissue of Women: Relationship with Adipocyte Morphology and the Expression of C/EBPβ and HIF-1α

BACKGROUND

Human adenovirus 36 (HAd36) infection has been associated with obesity. Experiments using 3T3-L1 adipocyte cultured cells and human adipose stem cells (hASCc) have shown that HAd36 stimulates the expression of genes implicated in cell differentiation and increased lipid accumulation. The presence of HAd36 in adipose tissue of overweight and obese women has also been confirmed. This study aims to analyze the presence of HAd36 DNA in the adipose tissue of women undergoing surgery for weight reduction and its relationship with obesity through changes in adipocyte morphology as well as the expression of C/EBPβ and HIF-1α.

METHODS

Fifty-two subcutaneous adipose tissue biopsies were collected. The anthropometric parameters measured were weight, height, skin folds, body circumferences, and body fat percentage. Biochemical measures were performed for glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, cholesterol HDL-c, and LDL-c. The presence of HAd36 DNA was performed by conventional PCR. Adipocyte morphology was analyzed in H&E-stained sections using ImageJ/Fiji software. The expression of genes C/EBPβ, HIF-1α and β-actin was determined using TaqMan probes.

RESULTS

HAd36 DNA was detected in 31% of adipose tissue samples. The presence of viral DNA was not significantly associated with anthropometric, clinical, or metabolic measurements, or with changes in adipose tissue morphology. The levels of mRNA expression for C/EBPβ and HIF-1α did not show significant differences between positive and negative samples for HAd36 (p>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The presence of HAd36 DNA in adipose tissue was identified, but it was not related to morphological changes of adipocytes, or the expression of C/EBPβ and HIF-1α. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Expression of BAFF and BAFF receptors in primary Sjögren's syndrome patients with ectopic germinal center-like structures

B cell-activating factor (BAFF) is an essential cytokine in primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) physiopathology. It has been reported that pSS patients develop germinal center-like (GC-like) structures in their minor salivary glands (MSGs). BAFF, BAFF-R, TACI, and BCMA expression was analyzed in MSGs from 29 subjects (nonspecific chronic sialadenitis and focal lymphocytic sialadenitis with the presence [pSS-GC(+)] or absence [pSS-GC(-)] of GC-like structures). Twenty-four percent of patients showed ectopic GC-like structures and a high focus score [p < 0.001 vs pSS-GC(-)]. BAFF serum levels (sBAFF) were high in pSS patients (p = 0.025 vs healthy subjects). However, the pSS-GC(-) group showed higher sBAFF levels than pSS-GC(+) patients. BAFF and BAFF-R glandular expression levels were higher in pSS-GC(+) patients, without significant differences compared to pSS-GC(-) patients. Soluble levels of BAFF correlated with anti-La/SSB antibodies and disease duration. Our results showed that BAFF could contribute to focal lymphocytic infiltration. The role of BAFF-binding receptors in MSGs is proposed as a mechanism for the possible establishment of ectopic GC-like structures and disease progression in some patients. In conclusion, this study supports previous evidence that considers the active BAFF system role in the pathogenesis of pSS and the need for strong biomarkers in this disease.

GPER Overexpression in Cervical Cancer Versus Premalignant Lesions: Its Activation Induces Different Forms of Cell Death

BACKGROUND

The effect of estrogen has been traditionally studied through the modulation of its alpha and beta nuclear receptors; however, the G Protein-Coupled Estrogen Receptor (GPER) has been recently involved in the pathology of numerous tumors. Although the study of GPER in cervical cancer has begun, its contribution still remains to be completely evaluated.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this work was to determine the expression of this receptor in different degrees of cervical lesions and whether the stimulation with its specific agonist (G-1) modulated mechanisms of cell survival or cell death in cervical cancer cells.

METHODS

Sections of 44 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks from patients were analyzed by automated immunohistochemistry. After the stimulation with G-1, proliferation was evaluated by the xCELLigence technology, the integrity of the mitochondrial membrane permeability by MitoCaptureTM fluorescence staining, apoptosis by flow cytometry, and senescence by the senescence-associated β-galactosidase kit.

RESULTS

GPER was widely expressed in cervical cancer but not in its precursor lesions. The staining was predominantly cytoplasmic, although it was also important in the nucleus of the epithelial cells. G-1 inhibited proliferation, decreased the mitochondrial permeability, and increased the percentage of apoptosis in SiHa, HeLa, and C-33A. Only in C-33A, an increase of the cells in necrosis was observed, whereas SiHa was the only cell line in which senescence was evidenced.

CONCLUSION

GPER is a receptor associated with cervical cancer that inhibits the growth and induces different mechanisms of death in cells derived from uterine cervical cancer. It suggests that GPER can be considered a pharmacological target that prevents the development of cervical carcinogenesis.

Effect of Ursolic Acid on Insulin Resistance and Hyperinsulinemia in Rats with Diet-Induced Obesity: Role of Adipokines Expression

Excess of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) characteristic of obesity leads to a proinflammatory state disrupting the insulin signaling pathway, triggering insulin resistance (IR) and inflammation, the main processes contributing to obesity comorbidities. Ursolic acid (UA), a pentacyclic triterpenoid occurring in a variety of plant foods, exhibits anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate UA effects on IR, hyperinsulinemia, and inflammation in experimental diet-induced obesity. Forty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to eight groups (n = 5). One group was used for time 0. Three groups were labeled as OBE (control): receiving high-fat diet (HFD; fat content 45.24% of energy) during 3, 6, or 9 weeks; three groups UA-PREV: exposed to simultaneous HFD and UA during 3, 6, or 9 weeks to evaluate UA preventive effects; one group UA-REV: receiving HFD for 6 weeks, followed by simultaneous HFD and UA for three additional weeks to analyze UA reversal effects. Measurements were performed after 3, 6, or 9 weeks of treatment. Adiposity was calculated by weighing VAT after sacrifice. Serum markers were quantified through colorimetric and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay methods. VAT adipokines RNAm expression was evaluated by quantitative reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction. Data were analyzed by Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U tests. UA significantly decreased adiposity, IR, hyperinsulinemia, triacylglycerides, and cholesterol levels, and also VAT mRNA expression of MCP-1 (monocyte chemoattractant protein-1), IL (interleukin)-1β and IL-6, concomitantly increasing adiponectin levels. UA metabolic effects demonstrated in this study support its potential therapeutic utility to improve IR, hyperinsulinemia, and inflammation observed in obesity and diabetes.

The -675 4G/5G PAI-1 polymorphism confers genetic susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus, its clinical manifestations, and comorbidities in Mexican-Mestizo population

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) involves a broad range of factors that contribute to the development of the disease and its comorbidities. Genetic predisposition influences the development of SLE, and the -675 4G/5G PAI-1 polymorphism has been associated with several pathologies with a chronic inflammatory component. Our objective was to investigate the genetic association between the -675 4G/5G PAI-1 polymorphism with SLE, its clinical manifestations, and comorbidities in a Mexican-Mestizo population. The -675 PAI-1 polymorphism was determined by PCR-RFLP in 716 subjects: 293 SLE patients and 423 control subjects. Significant associations for SLE genetic susceptibility were found in carriers of 4G/5G (OR = 2.63; CI 1.81-3.87; p < .001) and 4G/4G (OR = 2.70; CI 1.62-4.51; p < .001) genotype in comparison with the 5G/5G genotype; 4G allele carriers also presented genetic risk for SLE (OR = 1.63; CI 1.31-2.03; p < .001) compared to the 5G allele. Following a dominant genetic model, a similar association was found with the 4G allele to SLE (OR = 2.66; CI1.84-3.84; p < .001). The 4G/5G genotype was associated with shorter disease duration (p = .039), as well as lower levels of haemoglobin (p = .001) and haematocrit (p = .009); the need for prednisone treatment (p = .001), higher BMI (p = .03), presence of type 2 DM (p = .015), clinical activity (Mex-SLEDAI = 57%; p = .047), Chronicity (SLICC-ACR = 0; p = .015) and CRP levels (p = .015) were associated with 5G/5G genotypes. In conclusion, the -675 4G/5G and 4G/4G PAI-1genotypes were found as genetic risk markers of susceptibility for SLE in the Mexican-Mestizo population, and each genotype could influence the clinical manifestations and comorbidities differently in SLE.

Association of soluble CD40 levels with -1 C > T CD40 polymorphism and chronic kidney disease in systemic lupus erythematosus

Background

CD40 is a transmembrane protein mainly expressed on the antigen‐presenting cells surface. CD40 plays a crucial role in immunoglobulin class switching and antibodies production. Genetic polymorphisms in the CD40 gene have been associated with increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in several populations. This study aimed to evaluate the association of CD40 polymorphisms (−1 C > T, rs1883832 and 6,048 G > T, rs4810485) with SLE susceptibility, as well as with mRNA expression and soluble CD40 (sCD40) levels.

Methods

The study included 293 patients with SLE and 294 control subjects (CS). Genotyping was performed by PCR‐RFLP method. CD40 mRNA expression was determined by quantitative real‐time PCR, and ELISA quantified sCD40 levels.

Results

The CD40 polymorphisms −1 C > T and 6,048 G > T were associated with SLE susceptibility. There was no difference between CD40 mRNA expression and CD40 polymorphisms. The sCD40 levels were lower in SLE patients with TT haplotype, whereas higher sCD40 levels were associated with damage and impaired renal function according to SLICC and KDIGO. The sCD40 levels were negatively correlated with eGFR.

Conclusion

The CD40 gene polymorphisms increase the risk of SLE in the western Mexican population. The sCD40 levels are associated with −1 C > T polymorphism and chronic kidney disease.

Serum P-glycoprotein level: a potential biomarker of DMARD failure in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the utility of elevated serum P-glycoprotein (P-gp) as a risk marker of therapeutic response failure in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients treated with disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 151 RA patients. Patients were classified into two groups according to the response achieved in terms of the disease activity score (DAS)28 after ≥ 6 months: (1) patients with a therapeutic response to DMARDs, with DAS28 < 3.2; and (2) patients without a response to DMARDs, with persistent DAS28 ≥ 3.2. We explored a wide group of clinical factors associated with therapeutic resistance. Serum P-gp levels were measured by ELISA. The risk of P-gp elevation as a marker of failure to achieve a therapeutic response to DMARDs was computed using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Serum P-gp levels were significantly higher in RA patients (n = 151) than in the controls (n = 30) (158.70 ± 182.71 ng/mL vs. 14.12 ± 8.97 ng/mL, p < 0.001). The P-gp level was correlated with the DAS28 score (r = 0.39, p < 0.001). RA patients with DMARD failure had higher serum P-gp levels than patients with a therapeutic response (206 ± 21.47 ng/mL vs 120.60 ± 15.70 ng/mL; p = 0.001). High P-gp levels increased the risk of DMARD failure (OR 3.36, 95% CI 1.54-7.27, p = 0.001). After adjusting for confounding variables, elevated P-gp remained associated with DMARD failure (OR 2.64, 95% CI 1.29-5.40, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Elevated serum P-gp is associated with DMARD failure. The P-gp level can be considered a clinical tool for evaluating the risk of DMARD failure in patients; however, future prospective studies should be performed to evaluate the utility of this marker in predicting long-term responses.

Regulation of lactate dehydrogenase in response to WSSV infection in the shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei

Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is key for anaerobic glycolysis. LDH is induced by the hypoxia inducible factor -1 (HIF-1). HIF-1 induces genes involved in glucose metabolism and regulates cellular oxygen homeostasis. HIF-1 is formed by a regulatory α-subunit (HIF-1α) and a constitutive β-subunit (HIF-1β). The white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) induces anaerobic glycolysis in shrimp hemocytes, associated with lactate accumulation. Although infection and lactate production are associated, the LDH role in WSSV-infected shrimp has not been examined. In this work, the effects of HIF-1 silencing on the expression of two LDH subunits (LDHvan-1 and LDHvan-2) in shrimp infected with the WSSV were studied. HIF-1α transcripts increased in gills, hepatopancreas, and muscle after WSSV infection, while HIF-1β remained constitutively expressed. The expression for both LDH subunits increased in each tissue evaluated during the WSSV infection, translating into increased enzyme activity. Glucose concentration increased in each tissue evaluated, while lactate increased in gills and hepatopancreas, but not in muscle. Silencing of HIF-1α blocked the increase of LDH expression and enzyme activity, along with glucose (all tissues) and lactate (gills and hepatopancreas) concentrations produced by WSSV infection. These results demonstrate that HIF-1 up regulates the expression of LDH subunits during WSSV infection, and that this induction contributes to substrate metabolism in energetically active tissues of infected shrimp.

A 60 kDa prolactin variant secreted by cervical cancer cells modulates apoptosis and cytokine production

Prolactin (PRL) is associated with different types of cancer, such as cervical cancer. Recombinant PRL has antiapoptotic effect on cervical cancer cells, and it can also induce cytokine production on macrophages. A 60 kDa variant of PRL is produced by cervical cancer cells. The aim of the present study was to evaluate this variant's bioactivity, to test its effect on cervical cancer cell apoptosis, and to assess its ability to induce cytokine production on THP-1 macrophages. First, 60 kDa PRL was isolated and used to stimulate Nb2 cells. Later, apoptosis was measured after exposure to 60 kDa PRL. Finally, cytokines were measured on THP-1 stimulated supernatants. Our results show that 60 kDa PRL increased Nb2 cell proliferation. Apoptosis was decreased after stimuli with 60 kDa PRL in cervical cancer cells. IL-1β and TNF-α are produced by THP-1 macrophages after stimuli. These results suggest that 60 kDa PRL produced by cervical cancer cells is able to reduce apoptosis in HeLa, SiHa and C-33A cells and induce IL-1β and TNF-α production by THP-1 macrophages.

High expression of interleukine-1 receptor antagonist in rheumatoid arthritis: Association with IL1RN*2/2 genotype

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation and pro-inflammatory cytokines production. IL-1Ra is an anti-inflammatory cytokine codified by IL1RN gene that blocks IL-1 signalling. A VNTR polymorphism of 86 bp in IL1RN gene has been associated with RA risk and regulation of IL-1Ra expression. In this study, we determined mRNA and protein expression of IL-1Ra in RA patients and control subjects (CS). This study included 85 RA patients classified according to the ACR/EULAR 2010 criteria and 67 CS. Polymerase chain reaction was used to identify IL1RN VNTR polymorphism, the expression of sIL-1Ra (secreted isoform) mRNA was determined by SYBR Green-based real time quantitave-PCR assay, and IL-1Ra soluble levels quantification was evaluated by ELISA test. RA patients had higher soluble levels of IL-1Ra than CS (p < .01), sIL-1Ra mRNA expression was higher in RA patients compared to CS (p < .01). Carriers of IL1RN*2/2 homozygous genotype show increased IL-1Ra soluble levels compared to IL1RN*long/long and IL1RN*2/long genotypes (p < .05) in the CS group, whereas mRNA expression in carriers of IL1RN*2/2 genotype was 1.2 times higher compared to IL1RN*long/long genotypes in the same group. Regarding RA patients, high expression of sIL-1Ra mRNA on carriers of IL1RN*long/long genotype was observed. Nevertheless, in RA patients IL-1Ra soluble levels among genotypes did not show significant differences. High expression of IL-1Ra in RA patients under treatment or not with antirheumatic drugs was detected. Additionally, carriers of IL1RN*2/2 genotype had higher IL-1Ra expression than carriers of other genotypes.

Evaluation of the contribution of D9S1120 to anthropological studies in Native American populations

The D9S1120 locus exhibits a population-specific allele of 9 repeats (9RA) in all Native American and two Siberian populations currently studied, but it is absent in other worldwide populations. Although this feature has been used in anthropological genetic studies, its impact on the evaluation of the structure and genetic relations among Native American populations has been scarcely assessed. Consequently, the aim of this study was to evaluate the anthropological impact of D9S1120 when it was added to STR population datasets in Mexican Native American groups. We analyzed D9S1120 by PCR and capillary electrophoresis (CE) in 1117 unrelated individuals from 13 native groups from the north and west of Mexico. Additional worldwide populations previously studied with D9S1120 and/or 15 autosomal STRs (Identifier kit) were included for interpopulation analyses. We report statistical results of forensic importance for D9S1120. On average, the modal alleles were the Native American-specific allele 9RA (0.3254) and 16 (0.3362). Genetic distances between Native American and worldwide populations were estimated. When D9S1120 was included in the 15 STR population dataset, we observed improvements for admixture estimation in Mestizo populations and for representing congruent genetic relationships in dendrograms. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) based on D9S1120 confirms that most of the genetic variability in the Mexican population is attributable to their Native American backgrounds, and allows the detection of significant intercontinental differentiation attributed to the exclusive presence of 9RA in America. Our findings demonstrate the contribution of D9S1120 to a better understanding of the genetic relationships and structure among Mexican Native groups.

Assessment of the rs4340 ACE gene polymorphism in acute coronary syndrome in a Western Mexican population

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is considered one of the main causes of death worldwide. Contradictory findings concerning the impact of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene on cardiovascular diseases have been reported. Previous conclusions point out that the variability in results depends on ethnicity and genetic polymorphisms to determine the association of rs4340 polymorphisms of the ACE gene and ACE circulating levels in ACS. Genotyping of rs4340 polymorphisms was performed in a total of 600 individuals from Western Mexico divided into two groups: the ACS and the control group (CG). The polymorphisms were identified by polymerase chain reaction. Serum ACE concentration was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. D/D carriers had higher ACE levels than I/I carriers (3.6 vs 2.8 ng/mL, P < 0.0021) in the CG. The D/D genotype of the rs4340 polymorphism is associated with higher ACE concentration levels; however, the polymorphism was not associated with ACS.

Aberrant expression of interleukin-10 in rheumatoid arthritis: Relationship with IL10 haplotypes and autoantibodies

Interleukin 10 (IL-10) is an immunomodulatory cytokinethat plays a central rolein the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Different studies consistently show increased IL-10 serum levels in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and it appears to be caused by genetic variants. Three polymorphisms situated at positions -1082, -819 and -592 of IL10 gene and its major haplotypes have been associated with regulating IL10 promoter activity. In this study, we evaluated whether IL10 haplotypes are associated with mRNA expression and IL-10 serum levels as well as susceptibility to RA in a Western Mexican population. A total of 240 RA patients and 240 control subjects (CS) were included. Genotyping of IL10 polymorphisms was performed by PCR and PCR-RFLP, respectively. IL10 mRNA expression was determined by real-time PCR and IL-10 serum levels were measured using an ELISA kit. IL10 mRNA expression was 50-fold higher in RA patients than CS (p<0.001), while IL-10 serum levels did not show differences between groups. However, high IL-10 serum levels were positively related to a higherseropositivityfor rheumatoid factor (FR) and anti-CCP antibodies (p<0.05). No significant differences between the distribution of haplotype frequencies were observed between both study groups, but GCC haplotype was associated with higher IL-10 serum levels compared with the ACC and ATA haplotypes in RA patients (p<0.05). In addition, patients carrying ATA and GCC haplotypes showed higher mRNA expression than ACC (5.4-fold and 8.8-fold, respectively) and surprisingly, this trend was reversed in the controls, although it was not significant. In conclusion, our findings suggest that IL10 (GCC, ACC, and ATA) haplotypes may not be a susceptibility marker for RA in a population from Western Mexico. Nevertheless, independently of the presence of these variants, there is an aberrant overexpression of IL10 gene in RA, and it may play an important role in the pathogenesis of RA.

Frequency distribution of interleukin-10 haplotypes (-1082 A>G, -819 C>T, and -592 C>A) in a Mexican population

Interleukin 10 (IL-10) is an immunoregulatory cytokine with multiple roles in the immune system. Three single nucleotide polymorphisms at positions -1082 (A>G), -819 (C>T), and -592 (C>A) in the promoter region of the IL10 gene are believed to be associated with different inflammatory, infectious, and autoimmune diseases. These polymorphisms exhibit a strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) and form three principal haplotypes (GCC, ACC, and ATA). The GCC and ATA haplotypes have been associated with high and low levels of IL-10 production, respectively. The aim of this study was to establish the allele and haplotype frequencies of the IL10 polymorphisms in Mestizos from western Mexico. SNPs were analyzed in 340 healthy unrelated Mestizos from western Mexico by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The studied population presented significant differences, in the distribution of IL10 polymorphisms, from the Asian, African, and European populations. We also observed a strong LD within -1082 A>G, -819 C>T, and -592 C>A (100% pc = 7.735 x 10^-18). The haplotypes ACC (45.4%), ATA (22.0%), GTA (14.9%), and GCC (13.9%) were most frequently observed in this population. The haplotype frequencies, however, differed from those reported previously in Mestizos from central Mexico, Asians, Africans, and European Caucasians, suggesting a differential gene flow in the Mexican Mestizo population. This could account for the genetic variability between Mexicans and populations of other ethnicities. The study of these polymorphisms and their haplotypes could help in expanding our knowledge to design future disease-risk studies on the western Mexican population.

CD40 functional gene polymorphisms and mRNA expression in rheumatoid arthritis patients from western Mexico

The CD40 pathway is involved in the development and pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the CD40 gene, rs1883832 and rs4810485, are associated with susceptibility to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases and are thought to alter CD40 expression at the mRNA and protein level. This study assessed for the first time the association of these SNPs with RA and CD40 mRNA levels in a western Mexican population. A total of 278 RA patients and 318 control subjects were included. Genotyping was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism, and CD40 mRNA expression was determined by real-time quantitative PCR. No significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies were identified between the RA patients and controls. When stratified by genotype, these SNPs were not found to be associated with the presence of autoantibodies or the clinical activity of the disease. CD40 mRNA levels were elevated 1.5-fold in RA patients compared to control subjects; however, no clear tendencies were observed following stratification by genotype. These results suggest that the CD40 SNPs rs1883832 and rs4810485 are not RA susceptibility markers in the western Mexican population. Further studies are needed to clarify their roles in CD40 mRNA expression.

TNFR1-383 A˃C polymorphism association with clinical manifestations in primary Sjögren's syndrome patients

Primary Sjögren's syndrome is an autoimmune disease affecting the function of exocrine glands. Tumor necrosis factor receptor-1 (TNFR1) is involved in apoptosis through extrinsic pathway initiation. The level of soluble TNFR1 is reported increased in rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and primary Sjögren's syndrome patients. The TNFR1 gene contains a polymorphism that replaced an adenine with a cytosine at the -383 in promoter region position. The TNFR1-383 A˃C polymorphism has been associated with rheumatic diseases. We examined the association between the TNFR1-383 A˃C polymorphism and TNFR1 soluble (sTNFR1) levels and laboratory and clinical characteristics in primary Sjögren's syndrome patients. Eighty-two patients with primary Sjögren's syndrome classified using the American-European criteria and 84 healthy subjects were studied. Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Activity Index (SSDAI) and Sjögren's Syndrome Disease Damage Index were performed for all patients. Genotypic and allelic frequencies were similar in both groups (P = 0.317 and P = 0.329, respectively). sTNFR1 levels were similar in patients and healthy subjects (P = 0.051). High levels of C-reactive protein (P = 0.045) and rheumatoid factor (P = 0.040) in patients with the A˃C genotype were observed. In these patients, the SSDAI score was higher than in A˃A genotype carriers (P = 0.045). This is the first study that to examine the TNFR1-383 A˃C polymorphism in primary Sjögren's syndrome patients. Clinical parameters and SSDAI index were associated in A˃C genotype carriers. However, further studies with a larger sample are necessary to verify the association between primary Sjögren's syndrome and the TNFR1-383 A˃C polymorphism.

Association of BAFF, APRIL serum levels, BAFF-R, TACI and BCMA expression on peripheral B-cell subsets with clinical manifestations in systemic lupus erythematosus

Objective

B-cell-activating factor (BAFF) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) signaling pathways regulate B-cell survival through interactions with their receptors BAFF-R, TACI and BCMA. We evaluated the association of these ligands/receptors on B-cell subsets according to clinical manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Methods

BAFF and APRIL serum concentrations were measured in 30 SLE patients by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The BAFF-R, TACI and BCMA expression was analyzed on each B cell subset (CD19 + CD27-CD38–/ + naïve; CD19 + CD27 + CD38–/ + memory; CD19 + CD27-CD38 + + immature and CD19 + CD27 + CD38 + + plasma cells) by flow cytometry, and compared among patients with different clinical manifestations as well as healthy controls (HCs).

Results

Serum BAFF and APRIL levels were high in SLE patients and correlated with the Mex-SLEDAI disease activity index ( r = 0.584; p = 0.001 and r = 0.456; p = 0.011, respectively). The SLE patients showed an increased proportion of memory and plasma B cells ( p < 0.05). BAFF-R, TACI and BCMA expression in SLE patients was decreased in almost all B cell subsets compared to HCs ( p < 0.05). A lower BCMA expression was associated with severe disease activity, glomerulonephritis, serositis and hemolytic anemia ( p < 0.01). BCMA expression showed a negative correlation with Mex-SLEDAI score ( r = –0.494, p = 0.006).

Conclusions

Decreased BCMA expression on peripheral B cells according to severe disease activity suggests that BCMA plays an important regulating role in B-cell hyperactivity and immune tolerance homeostasis in SLE patients.

Comparative analysis of autoantibodies targeting peptidylarginine deiminase type 4, mutated citrullinated vimentin and cyclic citrullinated peptides in rheumatoid arthritis: associations with cytokine profiles, clinical and genetic features

Antibodies against cyclic citrullinated peptides (anti-CCP) are widely used for diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We performed a comparative analysis of antibodies targeting the citrullinating enzyme peptidylarginine deiminase type 4 (anti-PAD4) and mutated citrullinated vimentin (anti-MCV) with anti-CCP autoantibodies in RA patients and examined their relationships with clinical parameters, cytokine profiles and the PADI4 gene. Autoantibodies were examined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in sera of 170 RA patients and 103 controls. Cytokine profiles were measured using a multiplex system. PADI4 polymorphisms (89 G > A, 90 T > C and 92 G > C) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Anti-PAD4, anti-MCV and anti-CCP autoantibodies were detected in 24, 61 and 74% of RA patients, respectively. Positive correlations were observed between anti-PAD4 and disease duration; anti-CCP and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR); anti-MCV and ESR and C-reactive protein. Anti-MCV antibodies were associated with high disease activity score 28 (DAS-28) in early RA. Concentrations of T helper type 1 (Th1) [tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-12, IL-2, IL-1β], Th2 (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-13) and Th17 (IL-17) cytokines were higher in RA than in controls. Th2 and, to a lesser extent, Th1-related cytokines, showed positive correlations with anti-MCV and anti-CCP. The GTG haplotype in PADI4 was associated with anti-CCP and anti-MCV, but not anti-PAD4 antibodies. In conclusion, anti-PAD4 antibodies are detected mainly in established RA, which is in contrast to the early detection of antibodies against citrullinated peptide/proteins (ACPAs). Among autoantibodies, anti-MCV appear to perform better as markers of disease activity. Furthermore, anti-CCP and anti-MCV are associated genetically with the citrullinating enzyme PAD4 and are related strongly to Th1 and Th2 cytokines, suggesting a feed-forward loop between cytokines and ACPA production.

Interaction of dietary fat intake with APOA2, APOA5 and LEPR polymorphisms and its relationship with obesity and dyslipidemia in young subjects

BACKGROUND

Diet is an important environmental factor that interacts with genes to modulate the likelihood of developing disorders in lipid metabolism and the relationship between diet and genes in the presence of other chronic diseases such as obesity. The objective of this study was to analyze the interaction of a high fat diet with the APOA2 (rs3813627 and rs5082), APOA5 (rs662799 and rs3135506) and LEPR (rs8179183 and rs1137101) polymorphisms and its relationship with obesity and dyslipidemia in young subjects.

METHODS

The study included 200 young subjects aged 18 to 25 years (100 normal-weight and 100 obese subjects). Dietary fat intake was measured using the frequency food consumption questionnaire. Genotyping of polymorphisms was performed by PCR-RFLP.

RESULTS

Individuals carrying the APOA5 56 G/G genotype with a high saturated fatty acid consumption (OR = 2.7, p = 0.006) and/or total fat (OR = 2.4, p = 0.018), associated with an increased risk of obesity. We also found that A/G + G/G genotypes of the 668 A/G polymorphism in the LEPR gene with an intake ≥ 12 g/d of saturated fatty acids, have 2.9 times higher risk of obesity (p = 0.002), 3.8 times higher risk of hypercholesterolemia (p = 0.002) and 2.4 times higher risk of hypertriglyceridemia (p = 0.02), than those with an intake <12 g/d of saturated fatty acids. Similarly, LEPR 668 A/G + G/G carriers with a high fat total intake had 3.0 times higher risk of obesity (p = 0.002) and 4.1 times higher risk of hypercholesterolemia (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that dietary fat intake modifies the effect of APOA5 and LEPR polymorphisms on serum triglycerides, cholesterol levels and obesity in young subjects.

STAT3 activation is required for the antiapoptotic effects of prolactin in cervical cancer cells

BACKGROUND

Prolactin (PRL) has been implicated in the development of different types of cancer. However, signaling pathways might be activated depending on various forms of prolactin receptor (PRLR). JAK/STAT is an important pathway associated with PRL effects. The activation of JAK/STAT pathway might activate antiapoptotic genes that could importantly lead to progression of tumorigenesis. Recently, we have reported that PRL is associated with cell survival by inhibition of apoptosis and the precise activated signaling pathways for this process are still questioned. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the activation of different signaling pathways in response to PRL as well as to identify the induction of antiapoptotic genes.

METHODS

Cervical cancer cell lines HeLa, SiHa and C-33 A were stimulated with PRL (200 ng/mL) for 30 and 60 min and non stimulated cells were used to measure basal protein expression. Inhibition assays were performed by using Jak2 specific inhibitor AG490, either alone or in combination with PRL for 48 h. Western blot were carried out to evaluate protein induction of the different signaling pathways and antiapoptotic proteins. Significant effects were determined by using ANOVA test.

RESULTS

STAT3 was significantly activated in cervical cancer lines in comparison with non-tumorigenic keratinocytes HaCaT. No significant differences were found when analyzing MAPK and PI3K signaling pathways. An increase of antiapoptotic genes Bcl-xl, Bcl-2, survivin and Mcl-1 was observed after stimulus with PRL; however, after inhibition with AG490, the induction of antiapoptotic genes was decreased.

CONCLUSION

Our data suggests that STAT3 is an important signaling pathway activated by PRL in cervical cancer cells and it modulates the induction of antiapoptotic genes. Blocking STAT3 could represent a possible therapeutic strategy in cervical cancer.

Correlation of leptin and soluble leptin receptor levels with anthropometric parameters in mother-newborn pairs

The aim of this study was to investigate if anthropometric parameters are associated with both leptin and soluble leptin receptor (sLEPR) levels in newborns and their mothers. This cross-sectional study was performed in 118 mother-newborn pairs. The venous blood sample of mothers was taken before delivery and immediately after delivery an umbilical cord blood sample was collected. Levels of leptin and sLEPR in maternal and umbilical cord sera were assessed by ELISA. Maternal serum concentration of leptin and sLEPR (6.2 and 25.7 ng/ml, respectively) were higher than in umbilical cord blood (2.4 and 14.2 ng/ml, respectively). However, the newborns and their mothers had higher sLEPR levels than leptin levels. In mothers was observed that leptin levels increase with weight gain in pregnancy and decreased sLEPR levels. Cord leptin levels correlated with neonatal birth weight and length, the body circumferences, placental weight and maternal leptin levels. Cord sLEPR levels correlated with maternal sLEPR and leptin levels. Maternal serum concentration of leptin correlated with pre-pregnancy BMI, weight gain, cord sLEPR and leptin levels. Maternal sLEPR concentration correlated with cord sLEPR levels. The leptin and sLEPR levels in mother-newborn pairs are related with anthropometric parameters and an inverse correlation between leptin levels and sLEPR was observed in pairs.

Analysis of IL10 haplotypes in primary Sjögren's syndrome patients from Western Mexico: Relationship with mRNA expression, IL-10 soluble levels, and autoantibodies

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of salivary and lacrimal glands. Interleukin-10 (IL-10) plays a role in autoimmune diseases by promoting B-cell activation and autoantibodies production. IL10-1082A>G, -819C>T, -592C>A polymorphisms and their haplotypes have been associated with IL-10 production. The aim of this study was to associate IL10 haplotypes with mRNA expression and soluble IL-10 levels with susceptibility to pSS in 111 Mexican patients and 111 healthy subjects (HS). Primary Sjögren's syndrome patients showed high levels of sIL-10 (p=0.0001 vs HS) correlating with anti-Ro and anti-La antibodies (p<0.05). In addition, IL10 mRNA expression in pSS was higher than HS (0.8 vs 0.1, p=0.1537). However, no difference was observed in sIL-10 levels between haplotypes. Patients carriers of GCC haplotype showed higher mRNA expression than ACC+ATA (1.4 vs 0.6, p=0.2424) and high foci number (p=0.04 vs ACC). Our results suggest a strong relationship of IL10 with pSS which is demonstrated by the increased mRNA expression and also high sIL-10 levels positively correlated with autoantibodies. Besides that, the GCC haplotype carriers expressed high mRNA. However, IL10 haplotypes were not associated with sIL-10 in pSS from Western Mexico which suggest that diverse biological factors may regulate the IL10 expression in pSS.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) promoter polymorphisms (-794 CATT5-8 and -173 G>C): association with MIF and TNFα in psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is an autoimmune disease with a complex interaction of gene and with a dysregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokine such as Macrophage migration Inhibitory Factor (MIF) and Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNFα). Two polymorphisms identified in the promoter region of the MIF gene have been described: the STR-794 CATT5-8 (rs5844572) and the SNP-173 G>C (rs755622), which are associated with increased MIF levels in circulation and with autoimmune diseases in several populations. In this case-control study we investigated whether commonly occurring functional MIF polymorphisms are associated with PsA susceptibility and clinical variables as well as with MIF and TNFα serum levels in a Mexican-Mestizo population. Genotyping of the -794 CATT5-8 and -173 G>C MIF polymorphisms was performed by PCR and PCR-RFLP respectively in 50 PsA patients and 100 healthy subjects (HS). MIF and TNFα serum levels were determined by ELISA. A significant increase of MIF (PsA: 7.8 vs. HS: 5.25 ng/mL; p < 0.001) and TNFα (PsA: 24.6 vs. HS: 9.9 pg/mL; p < 0.001) levels was found in PsA patients, a significant correlation was observed between MIF and TNFα (r = 0.41; p < 0.01). The 5,6 repeats genotype of the -794 CATT5-8 MIF was associated with protection to PsA (OR = 0.29; CI 0.77-0.98; p = 0.03), and the G/C genotype (OR = 7.5; CI 2.92-21.64; p < 0.001) and the -173*C allele (OR = 2.45; CI 1.43-4.20; p < 0.001) of the -173 G>C MIF were associated with susceptibility to PsA. In conclusion the -173*C allele is associated with susceptibility to PsA in Mexican-Mestizo population, whereas the correlation between MIF and TNFα soluble levels provided evidence that both cytokines are closely related in the pathophysiology of the PsA.

Tumor necrosis factor alpha -238 G/A and -308 G/A polymorphisms and soluble TNF-α levels in chronic kidney disease: correlation with clinical variables

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by accumulation of proinflammatory cytokines, mainly tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of TNFA gene, including -238 G/A and -308 G/A, have been associated with alteration in the soluble TNF-α (sTNF-α) expression. The aim was to investigate the association of -238 y -308 TNFA gene SNPs with sTNF-α levels in CKD patients. We included 150 CKD patients and 192 control subjects (CS). Both SNPs were genotyped with polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism technique and sTNF-α levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The genotypic distribution of -238 and -308 SNPs was not significantly different between CKD patients and CS (p > 0.001). However, the sTNF-α levels were higher in CKD, compared to CS (p < 0.001). Also, sTNF-α correlated with creatinine (r = 0.279, p = 0.004), urea (r = 0.325, p = 0.001), phosphorus (r = 0.479, p = 0.001), glomerular filtration rate (r = -0.236, p = 0.019) and monocyte count (r = 0.276, p = 0.010). In conclusion, elevated sTNF-α levels are associated with CKD. However, the -238 and -308 TNFA gene SNPs were not associated with susceptibility to CKD and sTNF-α levels in a Mexican population.

FAS -670A>G promoter polymorphism is associated with soluble Fas levels in primary Sjögren's syndrome

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a chronic systemic autoimmune disease characterized by lymphocytic infiltration of exocrine glands. Soluble Fas receptor (sFas) has been suggested as a Fas-mediated apoptosis blocker that could impair clonal deletion in infiltrated autoreactive cells. The FAS -670A>G promoter polymorphism has been studied in pSS. However, a relationship between FAS -670A>G promoter polymorphism and sFas levels in pSS had not been found. We examined this relationship in 77 Mexican pSS patients and 84 healthy subjects were included. Genotypes were identified by PCR-RFLP, and Fas soluble levels were quantified by ELISA. No significant differences between allele and genotype frequencies were found between these two groups. The sFas levels in the serum of pSS patients were significantly higher than in controls (9961 vs 8840 pg/mL, respectively). In addition, AA genotype carriers had significantly higher levels of sFas than GG carriers (pSS: 10,763 and 9422 pg/mL; controls: 9712 and 8305 pg/mL, respectively). An additive model analysis between genotypes (AG+GG vs AA) in both groups, demonstrated a significant association between carriers of the A allele and high sFas levels. In conclusion, carrying the double dose of A allele of FAS -670A>G polymorphism is associated with high levels of sFas in pSS, but it is not a susceptibility marker for pSS.

Circulating CD36 and oxLDL levels are associated with cardiovascular risk factors in young subjects

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) results from a combination of abnormalities in lipoprotein metabolism, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and susceptibility to thrombosis. Atherosclerosis is the major cause of CVD. CD36 has been shown to play a critical role in the development of atherosclerotic lesions by its capacity to bind and promote endocytosis of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and is implicated in the formation of foam cells. The purpose of this research was to evaluate whether there is an association of sCD36 and oxLDL levels with cardiovascular risk factors in young subjects.

METHODS

A total of 188 subjects, 18 to 25 years old, 133 normal-weight and 55 obese subjects from the state of Guerrero, Mexico were recruited in the study. The lipid profile and glucose levels were measured by enzymatic colorimetric assays. Enzyme-linked immunosorbant assays (ELISA) for oxLDL and sCD36 were performed. Statistical analyses of data were performed with Wilcoxon- Mann Whitney and chi-square tests as well as with multinomial regression.

RESULTS

TC, LDL-C, TG, oxLDL and sCD36 levels were higher in obese subjects than in normal-weight controls, as well as, monocyte and platelet counts (P < 0.05). Obese subjects had 5.8 times higher risk of sCD36 in the third tertil (>97.8 ng/mL) than normal-weight controls (P = 0.014), and 7.4 times higher risk of oxLDL levels in third tertile (>48 U/L) than control group. The subjects with hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, fasting impaired LDL-C had a higher risk of oxLDL levels in the third tertile (>48 U/L) than the control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Circulating CD36 and oxLDL levels are associated with cardiovascular risk factors in young subjects and may be potential early markers for cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor: association of -794 CATT5-8 and -173 G>C polymorphisms with TNF-α in systemic lupus erythematosus

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an upstream immunoregulatory cytokine associated with the pathogenesis of autoimmune inflammatory diseases. There is evidence that MIF functions in a positive feedback loop with TNF-α that could perpetuate the inflammatory process in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this case-control study we investigated whether commonly occurring functional MIF polymorphisms are associated with SLE as well as with MIF and TNF-α serum levels in a Mexican-Mestizo population. Genotyping of the -794 CATT5-8 (rs5844572) and -173 G>C (rs755622) MIF polymorphisms was performed by PCR and PCR-RFLP, respectively in 186 SLE patients and 200 healthy subjects. MIF and TNF-α serum levels were determined by ELISA. A significant increase of MIF and TNF-α levels was found in SLE patients. According to a genetic model, we found a significant association of genotypes carrying the -794 CATT7 and -173(∗)C risk alleles with susceptibility to SLE and with a significant increase of TNF-α. In conclusion, MIF gene polymorphisms are associated with SLE susceptibility and with an increase of TNF-α serum levels in a Mexican-Mestizo population.

CD36 haplotypes are associated with lipid profile in normal-weight subjects

Background

Dyslipidemia is a common metabolic disorder that may result from abnormalities in the synthesis, processing and catabolism of lipoprotein particles. Disorders of lipoprotein concentrations and elevated concentration of oxidized lipoproteins (oxLDL) are risk factors in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). CD36 plays an important role in lipid metabolism and polymorphisms in the CD36 gene are related to cardiovascular risk factors. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether there is an association between genotypes and haplotypes of five polymorphisms in the CD36 gene with lipid levels in young normal-weight subjects.

Methods

A total of 232 unrelated subjects with normal-weight of 18 to 25 years old (157 women and 75 men) were randomly selected. The lipid profile and glucose levels were measured by enzymatic colorimetric assays. Genotyping of the polymorphisms -33137A/G (rs1984112), -31118G/A (rs1761667), -22674 T/C (rs2151916), 27645 Ins/Del (rs3840546) and 30294G/C (rs1049673) in the CD36 receptor gene was performed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism, linkage disequilibrium analysis among the five polymorphisms and an analysis of haplotype were estimated.

Results

HDL-C levels was lower in men than in women (P = 0.03). However, the median oxLDL levels in men was higher than in women (P = 0.05). There was no significant difference in the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C and glucose (P > 0.05). HDL-C levels were lower in the subjects with TC genotype of polymorphism -22674 T/C (P = 0.04), but the carriers of TT genotype had lower oxLDL levels (P = 0.01). LDL-C levels were higher in young carriers of CC genotype for 30294G/C polymorphism than non-carriers (P = 0.03). The subjects carrying the AATDC haplotype had 3.2 times presumably higher risk of LDL-C > 100 mg/dL than the carrying the AGTIG haplotype (P = 0.02), whereas the subjects carrying the AATIC haplotype had 2.0 times presumably higher risk of TC > 200 mg/dL than the carrying the AGTIC haplotype (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

The study provides evidence of a genetic association of CD36 haplotypes with the variability in LDL-C and TC levels in a sample of normal-weight subjects.

High expression of prolactin receptor is associated with cell survival in cervical cancer cells

BACKGROUND

The altered expression of prolactin (PRL) and its receptor (PRLR) has been implicated in breast and other types of cancer. There are few studies that have focused on the analysis of PRL/PRLR in cervical cancer where the development of neoplastic lesions is influenced by the variation of the hormonal status. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of PRL/PRLR and the effect of PRL treatment on cell proliferation and apoptosis in cervical cancer cell lines.

RESULTS

High expression of multiple PRLR forms and PRLvariants of 60-80 kDa were observed in cervical cancer cell lines compared with non-tumorigenic keratinocytes evaluated by Western blot, immunofluorecence and real time PCR. Treatment with PRL (200 ng/ml) increased cell proliferation in HeLa cells determined by the MTT assay at day 3 and after 1 day a protective effect against etoposide induced apoptosis in HeLa, SiHa and C-33A cervical cancer cell lines analyzed by the TUNEL assay.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggests that PRL/PRLR signaling could act as an important survival factor for cervical cancer. The use of an effective PRL antagonist may provide a better therapeutic intervention in cervical cancer.

Associations of killer cell immunoglobulin- like receptor genes with rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. Killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors are expressed on the surface of natural killer cells and CD28null T-cells, both present in synovial membrane of RA. Therefore we evaluated the associations of KIR genes with RA.

METHODS

16 KIR genes were genotyped in 100 healthy subjects (HS) and 100 RA patients from Western Mexico using PCR-SSP. Differences in KIR genotypes and gene frequencies were assessed using the <formula>X^{2}</formula> test.

RESULTS

Gene frequency of KIR2DL3 was lower in RA than in HS (p= 0.0019), whereas KIR2DL2 and KIR2DS2 were higher in RA than HS (p =0.0004 and p = 0.0487, respectively). In addition were identified 38 genotypes (from G1-G38) in both studied groups, and the genotype frequencies of G1, G6 and G14 showed significant differences (p =0.0001, p =0.0208 and p =0.0300, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of KIR2DL2, KIR2DS2 and absence of KIR2DL3 are associated with RA. Moreover, two genotypes BX are associated with RA. These results suggest that KIRs can be involved in RA susceptibility.

Maternal admixture and population structure in Mexican-Mestizos based on mtDNA haplogroups

The maternal ancestry (mtDNA) has important applications in different research fields, such as evolution, epidemiology, identification, and human population history. This is particularly interesting in Mestizos, which constitute the main population in Mexico (∼93%) resulting from post-Columbian admixture between Spaniards, Amerindians, and African slaves, principally. Consequently, we conducted minisequencing analysis (SNaPshot) of 11 mitochondrial single-nucleotide polymorphisms in 742 Mestizos of 10 populations from different regions in Mexico. The predominant maternal ancestry was Native American (92.9%), including Haplogroups A, B, C, and D (47, 23.7, 15.9, and 6.2%, respectively). Conversely, European and African ancestries were less frequent (5.3 and 1.9%, respectively). The main characteristics of the maternal lineages observed in Mexican-Mestizos comprised the following: 1) contrasting geographic gradient of Haplogroups A and C; 2) increase of European lineages toward the Northwest; 3) low or absent, but homogeneous, African ancestry throughout the Mexican territory; 4) maternal lineages in Mestizos roughly represent the genetic makeup of the surrounding Amerindian groups, particularly toward the Southeast, but not in the North and West; 5) continuity over time of the geographic distribution of Amerindian lineages in Mayas; and 6) low but significant maternal population structure (FST  = 2.8%; P = 0.0000). The average ancestry obtained from uniparental systems (mtDNA and Y-chromosome) in Mexican-Mestizos was correlated with previous ancestry estimates based on autosomal systems (genome-wide single-nucleotide polymorphisms and short tandem repeats). Finally, the comparison of paternal and maternal lineages provided additional information concerning the gender bias admixture, mating patterns, and population structure in Mestizos throughout the Mexican territory.

The integration of HR-HPV increases the expression of cyclins A and E in cytologies with and without low-grade lesions

Background:

Cyclin-A and cyclin-E are regulators of G1–S phase of normal cell cycle. Integration of human papilloma virus high-risk (HR-HPV) could alter this mechanism, and its overexpression has been associated with poor prognosis in cervical cancer.

Aim:

To determine the expression of cyclin-A and cyclin-E, types of HR-HPV and physical state of DNA in cytologies with the diagnosis of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL).

Materials and Methods:

115 cytological specimens in liquid base (liquid-PREP^™) were analyzed. 25 specimens were with no signs of SIL (NSIL) and without HPV; 30 with NSIL with low-risk HPV (LR-HPV); 30 with NSIL with HR-HPV; and 30 with both LSIL and HR-HPV. The expression of cyclins was evaluated by immunocytochemistry; and the detection of viral DNA was done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLPs) for genotyping or sequencing of HPV. The physical state of HPV was evaluated by in situ hybridization with amplification with tyramide.

Results:

In the cytologies NSIL with LR-HPV, the expression of cyclin-A and cyclin-E was found respectively in 23.3% and 33.3% of the specimens. Among the specimens of NSIL with HR-HPV, 33.3% expressed cyclin-A and 40% cyclin-E, while 100% of the LSILs expressed the 2 cyclins. On the other hand, 100% of the samples NSIL with LR-HPV presented an episomal pattern. Of the specimens of NSIL with HR-HPV, 56.6% exhibited an episomal pattern, 23.3% integrated and 20%, mixed. Among the LSILs, 90% were mixed and 10% integrated.

Conclusions:

The cyclins A and E are present in the LSILs that occur predominantly in mixed state in the presence of HR-HPV.

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF): genetic evidence for participation in early onset and early stage rheumatoid arthritis

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is an upstream pro-inflammatory cytokine that is associated with the pathogenesis of autoimmune inflammatory diseases including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Two polymorphisms in the upstream region exist in the MIF gene and are associated with RA susceptibility or severity in different populations. In this case-control study, we investigated whether MIF polymorphisms are associated with RA susceptibility or activity in a western Mexican population .The relationship of MIF levels with clinical features of disease also was assessed. Genotyping of the -794 CATT5-8 (rs5844572) and the -173 G>C (rs755622) polymorphisms was performed by PCR and PCR-RFLP respectively on 226 RA patients and 210 healthy subjects. Serum MIF levels were determined by ELISA. We found a significant association between the -794 CATT5-8 6,7 MIF genotype with RA. Moreover, we detected an association between the -794 CATT7 allele with early onset RA. The -794 CATT7 and -173(*)C alleles, which are in linkage disequilibrium, were associated with high disease activity on RA patients. A positive correlation between circulating MIF levels and C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, rheumatoid factor, anti-citrullinated protein/peptides antibodies and TNFα was detected. MIF levels appear to be associated with disease progression rather than disease activity, which is distinct from the established relationship between disease activity and TNFα levels. In conclusion, the MIF gene and protein are associated with RA in a western Mexican population, with a main contribution onto early onset and early stages of disease.

Distribution of CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 polymorphisms associated with poor metabolizer phenotype in five Amerindian groups and western Mestizos from Mexico

BACKGROUND

The distribution of polymorphisms in the CYP2D6 and CYP2C19 genes allows inferring the potential risk for specific adverse drug reactions and lack of therapeutic effects in humans. This variability shows differences among human populations. The aim of this study was to analyze single-nucleotide polymorphisms related to a poor metabolizer (PM) phenotype in nonpreviously studied Amerindian groups and Mestizos (general admixed population) from Mexico.

METHODS

We detected by SNaPshot(®) different polymorphisms located in CYP2D6 (*3, *4, *6, *7, and *8) and CYP2C19 (*2, *3, *4 and *5) in western Mestizos (n=145) and five Amerindian groups from Mexico: Tarahumaras from the North (n=88); Purépechas from the Center (n=101); and Tojolabales (n=68), Tzotziles (n=88), and Tzeltales (n=20) from the Southeast. Genotypes were observed by capillary electrophoresis. The genetic relationships among these populations were estimated based on these genes.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The wild-type allele (*1) of both genes was predominant in the Mexican populations studied. The most widely observed alleles were CYP2C19*2 (range, 0%-31%) and CYP2D6*4 (range, 1.2%-7.3%), whereas CYP2D6*3 was exclusively detected in Mestizos. Conversely, CYP2C19*4 and *5, as well as CYP2D6*3, *6, *7, and *8, were not observed in the majority of the Mexican populations. The Tarahumaras presented a high frequency of the allele CYP2C19*2 (31%) and of homozygotes *2/*2 (10.7%), which represent a high frequency of potentially PM phenotypes in this Amerindian group. The genetic distances showed high differentiation of Tarahumaras (principally for CYP2C19 gene). In general, a relative proximity was observed between most of the Amerindian, Mexican-Mestizo, and Latin-American populations.

CONCLUSION

In general, the wild-type allele (*1) predominates in Mexican populations, outlining a relatively homogeneous distribution for CYP2C19 and CYP2D6. The exception is the Tarahumara group that displays a potentially increased risk for adverse reactions to CYP2C19-metabolized drugs.

Prehypertension in a Mexican population: influence of age, gender, and body fat

We studied the association of age, gender, and distribution of body fat with prehypertension in a sample of Mexican adults. This study was performed in a sample of 900 adults (275 men and 625 women), with the median age of 42 years. Resting blood pressure was measured in duplicate, and prehypertension and hypertension were defined according to JNC 7 criteria. The prevalence of hypertension and prehypertension in our population was 11.56% and 26.5%, respectively. The prevalence of prehypertension was significantly higher in men than in women. Prehypertension was associated with middle and old age (odds ratio [OR] = 2.6 and 2.4, respectively, P < .001), abdominal obesity (OR = 1.3, P = .008), upper quintiles of body mass index (OR = 2.05, P = .005), waist (OR = 1.97, P = .01) and hip (OR = 2.04, P = .005) circumferences, and body fat (OR = 2.37, P = .001). The main factors associated with the development of prehypertension are age, central obesity, and body fat.

Relationship of metabolic syndrome and its components with -844 G/A and HindIII C/G PAI-1 gene polymorphisms in Mexican children

Background

Several association studies have shown that -844 G/A and HindIII C/G PAI-1 polymorphisms are related with increase of PAI-1 levels, obesity, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, hypertension and dyslipidemia, which are components of metabolic syndrome. The aim of this study was to analyze the allele and genotype frequencies of these polymorphisms in PAI-1 gene and its association with metabolic syndrome and its components in a sample of Mexican mestizo children.

Methods

This study included 100 children with an age range between 6-11 years divided in two groups: a) 48 children diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and b) 52 children metabolically healthy without any clinical and biochemical alteration. Metabolic syndrome was defined as the presence of three or more of the following criteria: fasting glucose levels ≥ 100 mg/dL, triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL, HDL-cholesterol < 40 mg/dL, obesity BMI ≥ 95^th percentile, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥ 95^th percentile and insulin resistance HOMA-IR ≥ 2.4. The -844 G/A and HindIII C/G PAI-1 polymorphisms were analyzed by PCR-RFLP.

Results

For the -844 G/A polymorphism, the G/A genotype (OR = 2.79; 95% CI, 1.11-7.08; p = 0.015) and the A allele (OR = 2.2; 95% CI, 1.10-4.43; p = 0.015) were associated with metabolic syndrome. The -844 G/A and A/A genotypes were associated with increase in plasma triglycerides levels (OR = 2.6; 95% CI, 1.16 to 6.04; p = 0.02), decrease in plasma HDL-cholesterol levels (OR = 2.4; 95% CI, 1.06 to 5.42; p = 0.03) and obesity (OR = 2.6; 95% CI, 1.17-5.92; p = 0.01). The C/G and G/G genotypes of the HindIII C/G polymorphism contributed to a significant increase in plasma total cholesterol levels (179 vs. 165 mg/dL; p = 0.02) in comparison with C/C genotype.

Conclusions

The -844 G/A PAI-1 polymorphism is related with the risk of developing metabolic syndrome, obesity and atherogenic dyslipidemia, and the HindIII C/G PAI-1 polymorphism was associated with the increase of total cholesterol levels in Mexican children.

Increased expression of the prolactin receptor is associated with malignant laryngeal tumors

The altered expression of the prolactin receptor (PRLR) has been associated with the development of various types of cancer, particularly breast, prostate and endometrial cancer. However, in laryngeal tumors, the expression of PRLR has not yet been documented. The aim of this study was to determine the expression and localization of PRLR in laryngeal cancer (LC) in comparison with recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP). PRLR expression was analyzed in 48 paraffin-embedded tissues (18 RRP and 30 laryngeal cancer tissues) by immunoperoxidase staining. Furthermore, PRLR expression was evaluated in ten samples from each group by Western blot analysis and quantitative real-time PCR. PRLR was observed in all laryngeal tumors at different intensities. PRLR overexpression was significantly associated (P<0.005) with LC. The staining pattern was homogeneous, mainly cytoplasmic, and confined to the tumor area. We found increased expression of different isoforms in LC in comparison with RRP. Our results suggest a possible role of PRL/PRLR in the development of LC. PRLR may be useful as a target for further investigations in laryngeal tissues.

Association of CD28 IVS3 +17T/C polymorphism with soluble CD28 in rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease of unknown etiology in which inflammatory pathology involves T cell activation and the CD28 costimulatory molecule involved in T cell presentation. The gene includes the CD28 IVS3 +17T/C polymorphism that could be associated with susceptibility to RA whereas the soluble concentrations of CD28 (sCD28) could be related to clinical activity.

METHODS

We investigated the CD28 IVS3 +17T/C polymorphism in 200 RA patients and 200 healthy subjects (HS). Furthermore, we quantified the sCD28 concentrations in 77 samples of each group. We applied indexes focused to determine the activity and disability (DAS28 and Spanish HAQ-DI, respectively) in RA patients.

RESULTS

RA patients had significantly higher frequencies of the CD28 T allele compared to HS (p = 0.032 OR = 1.59, C.I. 1.02-2.49). In addition, the IVS3 +17 T/T genotype frequency was also increased in RA vs. HS (p = 0.026). The RA patients showed higher sCD28 serum levels than HS (p = 0.001). Carriers of the T/T genotype in RA patients showed higher sCD28 levels than C/C carriers (p =0.047). In addition, a correlation between sCD28 and Spanish HAQ-DI (correlation, 0.272; p =0.016), was found.

CONCLUSION

The T allele in CD28 IVS3 +17T/C polymorphism is associated with a susceptibility to RA in Western Mexico. In addition, increased sCD28 levels are related to T/T genotype in RA patients.

Circulating TNFRI and TNFRII levels correlated with the disease activity score (DAS28) in rheumatoid arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To measure levels of soluble tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha) receptor type I (sTNFRI) and type II (sTNFRII) in order to correlate them with C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor (RF), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and disease activity score (DAS28) in RA patients.

METHODS

We recruited 41 RA patients classified according to American College of Rheumatology (ACR) criteria and 38 healthy subjects (HS). sTNFRI and sTNFRII were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. Clinical activity in RA patients was evaluated using the Disease Activity Score using 28 joint counts (DAS28). The statistical analysis was realized using SPSS version 10.0.

RESULTS

Soluble TNFRI and TNFRII levels were higher in RA patients (p = 0.04 and 0.001, respectively) than HS. Serum levels of sTNFRI correlated with sTNFRII (r = 0.699, p < 0.0001). sTNFRII correlated with DAS28 (r = 0.375, p = 0.017), RF (r = 0.505, p = 0.004), and ESR (r = 0.323, p = 0.042).

CONCLUSION

The increased levels of both sTNFRI and sTNFRII suggest a secondary event related to the inflammatory state observed in RA, whereas the correlation of sTNFRII with RF, ESR, and DAS28 reflects the preferential TNFRII shedding induced by TNFalpha. sTNFRII may be useful as an additional inflammatory marker in RA.

Polymorphisms of alcohol metabolizing enzymes in indigenous Mexican population: unusual high frequency of CYP2E1*c2 allele

BACKGROUND

Alcohol abuse represents the major identified etiological factor of cirrhosis in México. ADH1B, ALDH2, and CYP2E1 have been considered candidate genes in alcohol-related diseases. Controversial results probably due to ethnic differences, among other factors, have been reported. Mexican Mestizos (MES) derive from the combination of indigenous, Spaniard, and African genes. Huichols (HUI) constitute an indigenous group from western Mexico with no racial admixture. We determined ADH1B*2, ALDH2*2, and CYP2E1*c2 allele frequencies in healthy HUI and MES from western Mexico. Lipid and hepatic profile were also carried out.

METHODS

One hundred and one HUI and 331 MES subjects were studied. Genotype and allele frequency were assessed through polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism after DNA isolation from peripheral leukocytes. Commercial kits for lipid and hepatic determinations were used.

RESULTS

Polymorphic allele distribution in HUI was: 0%ADH1B*2, 0.5%ALDH2*2, 51.5%CYP2E1*c2; in MES: 3.4%ADH1B*2, 0%ALDH2*2, 16.1%CYP2E1*c2. Frequency of ADH1B*2 was statistically (p < 0.001) lower in HUI than MES. CYP2E1*c2 polymorphic allele was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) in HUI than MES. Hepatic profile was normal in both groups. HUI showed a better lipid profile than MES independently of genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

Huichols exhibited the highest CYP2E1*c2 allele frequency of the world documented up to this date; meanwhile, ADH1B*2 and ALDH2*2 were practically absent. This feature could be useful in the understanding of Mexican population gene composition, alcohol metabolism, and alcoholic liver disease development. However, further association studies are necessary. The heterogeneity of Mexican population was evidenced by the significantly different distribution of CYP2E1*c2 allele observed among different regions of the country. Lipid and hepatic values were not associated to genotype. This report constitutes the first study dealing with gene polymorphisms of alcohol metabolizing enzymes conducted in HUI.

Establishment of a cut-point value of serum TNF-alpha levels in the metabolic syndrome

Cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes are the major causes of mortality in Mexico. Metabolic syndrome (MS) is a cluster of factors that increase the risk to develop such diseases. Previous studies have shown that MS is associated with high tumor necrosis factor (TNF-alpha) levels. In fact, TNF-alpha has been proposed to be a useful marker for clinical diagnosis of inflammation at an early stage. Therefore, we analyzed TNF-alpha concentrations in Mexican individuals with or without MS and related these levels to the associated MS components. Clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical data were analyzed in 41 healthy and 39 MS individuals. Individuals were similarly grouped by age and gender.The serum TNF-alpha levels measured by a highly sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit were increased significantly in MS subjects compared with healthy individuals (P<0.001). The assay showed 78.1% sensitivity and 61.5% specificity with a cut-point level of 1.36 pg/mL. TNF-alpha levels higher than the cut-point value were correlated with insulin resistance indices. These findings support the hypothesis that serum TNF-alpha concentration could be a useful marker for early MS diagnosis. Nevertheless, we suggest the establishment of specific cut-point values in each studied population to evaluate potential clinical applications.

Genetic data of 15 autosomal STRs (Identifiler kit) of three Mexican Mestizo population samples from the States of Jalisco (West), Puebla (Center), and Yucatan (Southeast)

We report autosomal STR data (Identifiler PCR amplification kit) of a total sample of 884 unrelated Mestizos from three different regions of Mexico. The population sample included 309, 313 and 262 individuals from the states of Jalisco (West), Puebla (Center) and Yucatan (Southeast), respectively. Allele distribution and forensic statistical parameters are described. Genotype distribution by locus and two-loci combination was in agreement with Hardy-Weinberg expectations for all 15 STRs. Pairwise comparisons including Mexican populations reported in the literature demonstrated a significant differentiation, principally between North/West with regard to Center/Southeast Mexico. These results increase STR data from previously unreported regions of this country, and constitute a valuable guide in forensic casework for choosing an auxiliary STR database in states where it is not available.