DNA methyltransferases and gastric cancer: insight into targeted therapy

Gastric cancer is a major health problem worldwide occupying most frequent causes of cancer-related mortality. In addition to genetic modifications, epigenetic alterations catalyzed by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) are a well-characterized epigenetic hallmark in gastric cancer. The reversible nature of epigenetic alterations and central role of DNA methylation in diverse biological processes provides an opportunity for using DNMT inhibitors to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapeutics. In this review, we discussed key factors or mechanisms such as SNPs, infections and genetic modifications that trigger DNMTs level modification in gastric cancer, and their potential roles in cancer progression. Finally, we focused on how inhibitors of the DNMTs can most effectively be used for the treatment of gastric cancer with multidrug resistance.

Predominance of rotavirus G8 genotype in hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis in Yasuj, Iran

BACKGROUND

Rotavirus infection is the most common cause of gastroenteritis among children worldwide. In this study, we were evaluated the occurrence of rotavirus infection and genotypes causing gastroenteritis among children under 5 years in Yasuj, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This cross sectional-descriptive study was done on 184 fecal samples collected from children aged < 5 years old with acute gastroenteritis. All the stool specimens were tested for group A rotavirus with enzyme immunoassays (EIA). Rotavirus-positive specimens were genotyped by the Nested reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with using different type of specific primers.

RESULTS

The prevalence of rotavirus was 28.26% and predominant genotypes were G1 (1.92%), G2 (7.69%), G4 (1.92%), G8 (46.16%), N.T.A (40.39%), mixed infections (1.92%). Predominance of rotavirus G8 genotype in the current survey was reported for the first time in Iran. The highest prevalence of rotavirus infection was observed in autumn (48.08%), and the lowest in spring (5.77%).

CONCLUSIONS

The result of study showed that prevalence of rotavirus genotypes in this region of the country is different from that of other regions. The continuous stability of rotavirus in Iran, regarding to the regional differentiates and prevalence of circulating strains, can be useful indication in order to supply and effective vaccine against the rotavirus infections.