Oxidative stress parameters and keap 1 variants in T2DM: Association with T2DM, diabetic neuropathy, diabetic retinopathy, and obesity

Introduction

Chronic hyperglycemia activates the inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress mechanisms with consequent damage to nerve tissue and retina. The Keap1‐Nrf2 pathway acts as one of the most important antioxidant pathways of the organism. Variants of Keap1 could affect susceptibility to diabetes and its complications.

Methods

In a case‐control study, 400 individuals included type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients without complication, with neuropathy, with retinopathy, and healthy individuals were investigated. The levels of glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), malondialdehyde (MDA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were measured using chemical methods. Using the PCR‐RFLP method, the Keap1 (rs11085735) variants were identified.

Results

Neuropathic patients had significantly lower levels of GSH, GPx, and TAC and higher levels of total oxidative status (TOS), MDA, and oxidative stress index (OSI) compared to T2DM patients without complication and controls. Lower levels of GSH and GPx and a higher level of MDA were observed in patients with retinopathy compared with controls. Obesity was associated with significantly lower GPx activity and higher TOS. A significantly higher Keap1 AA genotype was found in patients with neuropathy than T2DM without complication and controls. The presence of Keap1 AA genotype correlated with lower GPx activity compared to CC genotype.

Conclusions

Our study suggests the role of reduced antioxidant system and Keap1 variants in the pathogenesis of T2DM and its complications of neuropathy and retinopathy and also obesity in enhanced oxidative stress. Monitoring oxidative stress parameters in diabetic patients, especially those with complication and their treatment with antioxidants is suggested.

p53 p.Pro72Arg (rs1042522) and Mouse Double Minute 2 (MDM2) Single-Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) 309 Variants and Their Interaction in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia(CLL): A Survey in CLL Patients from Western Iran

Background: Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is the most common leukemia in adults. The MDM2 and p53 are interacting proteins that play crucial roles in cell biology. Genetic variations of p53 and MDM2 have been identified in many cancers including CLL; among which are SNP309 in the promoter of MDM2 and SNP codon72 in p53. Materials and Methods: In this study, we sought to find the impact of two SNPs of p53 and MDM2 in the pathogenesis of CLL. A total of 100 CLL patients and 102 healthy controls were recruited. Genomic DNA was extracted, and genotyping was performed using the PCR-RFLP method. The allele and genotype associations were analyzed using the χ2 test. The gene-gene interaction analysis was studied using GMDR v0.9. Results: Our study found the absence of a significant difference between CLL patients and controls related to the allelic frequencies or genotypic distributions for both MDM2 SNP309 and p53 codon72. A significantly higher frequency of p53 C allele was found in patients with disease duration of more than 36 compared to those less than 36 months. However, GMDR analysis suggests genetic interaction between the genes under study. Conclusion: Our findings indicated each polymorphism of p53 codon72 and MDM2 (SNP309) was not a risk factor for CLL but the p53 C allele could be associated with the disease duration. Besides, the interaction between p53/MDM2 genotypes may confer susceptibility to CLL. Our study could be useful in genetic association studies of CLL and the role of gene-gene interactions in the susceptibility to the disease.

Variants of Genes Involved in Metabolism of Folate Among Patients with Breast Cancer: Association of TYMS 3R Allele with Susceptibility to Breast Cancer and Metastasis

Background & Objective:

Breast cancer (BC) is known to be the most prevalent cancer among women. One-carbon metabolism disturbance might play an important role in the etiology of BC. The present study aimed to investigate the thymidylate synthase (TYMS), 5-methyltetrahydrofolate-homocysteine methyltransferase (MTR), and methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) variants as good candidates for studying the role of genetic variants of folate metabolizing enzymes in the risk of BC.

Methods:

The present case-control study includes 100 BC patients and 141 healthy females. The TYMS 2R/3R (rs34743033), MTR c.2756A>G (rs1805087), and MTRR c.66A>G (rs1801394) variants were detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), and a designed amplification-refractory mutation system (ARMS) method, respectively.

Results:

The 3R allele of TYMS enhanced the risk of BC by 2.84-fold (P<0.001). In the presence of TYMS 3R/3R, compared to TYMS 2R/3R, there was a trend toward enhancing the risk of metastasis by 4.15-fold (95% CI: 0.96-17.85, P=0.055). The frequencies of MTR c.2756A>G and MTRR c.66A>G variants were not significantly different among patients and controls.

Conclusion:

We observed that the TYMS 3R is a risk allele for susceptibility to BC and this allele may increase the risk of metastasis in BC patients. .

Gene variants and haplotypes of Vitamin D biosynthesis, transport, and function in preeclampsia

Objective: To find whether the gene variants and haplotypes of cytochrome (CYP) 27B1 (1α-hydroxylase), group-specific component (GC) that is a vitamin D binding protein, vitamin D receptor (VDR), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and retinoid-X receptor (RXR) affect the risk of preeclampsia. Methods: In a case-control study 100 women with preeclampsia and 100 healthy pregnant women were investigated for gene variants and haplotypes of vitamin D biosynthesis, transport, and function using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Results: The frequency of gene variants of PPARγ Pro12Ala and RXR -α (A/G, rs749759) were not significantly different comparing patients and controls. The TT genotype of CYP 27B1 (G > T) was associated with 2.2-fold (95% CI 1.04-4.7, p = 0.039) increased risk of early-onset preeclampsia. Also, the TT genotype of GC rs7041 (T > G) increased the risk of preeclampsia [OR = 2.13 (95% CI 1.09-4.17, p = 0.027)]. The VDR ApaI GT genotype elevated susceptibility to preeclampsia (OR = 2.55, p = 0.04). Further, the presence of VDR ApaI GT+TT genotype was associated with higher levels of body mass index, and systolic blood pressure, and lower level of 25 (OH)-D3. In the presence of haplotype CYP T, VDR T, and RXR A (TTA) compared to haplotype GTG the risk of preeclampsia was 6.71-fold (p = 0.044). Conclusions: The present study indicated an association between the CYP 27B1, GC, and VDR ApaI variants with the risk of preeclampsia. Also, the variants of the latter polymorphism influenced BMI, blood pressure, and vitamin D levels.

Influences of electric fields on the operation of Aqy1 aquaporin channels: a molecular dynamics study

The dynamics of water molecules inside an Aquaporin channel, embedded within a stochastically fluctuating membrane, was modeled by means of the application of the molecular dynamics (MD) simulation method. We considered the effect of the existence and nonexistence of an external electric field, either constant or oscillating, on the stability of the channel. It was observed that the permeation of water molecules through the channel was increased when the channel was exposed to a constant electric field of strength -0.2 mV nm-1. Moreover, oscillating electric fields of 5 and 10 GHz frequencies, which is the range of field frequency generally present in our daily life, were applied to the channel, showing not significant effects on the stability of the channel and its important parts. In addition, we investigated the influence of the application of electric fields on the water molecule ordinations in the channels, and the results showed that the water molecule orientations were changed in response to the applied field.

The Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (G>A) and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (C677T) Gene Variants and the Serum Levels of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1, Insulin, and Homeostasis Model Assessment in Patients with Acne Vulgaris

Background & Objective

To find an association between gene variants of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and 5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) with the risk of acne vulgaris (AV).

Methods

In a case-control study, we investigated 150 AV patients and 148 healthy individuals (aged 18-25 years) for the IGF-1 G>A and MTHFR C677T polymorphisms, as well as the serum levels of IGF-1, insulin, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). The serum biochemical parameters and the genotypes of IGF-1 G>A and MTHFR C677T were detected by using appropriate kits and polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods, respectively.

Results

The frequencies of IGF-1 and the MTHFR polymorphisms were not significantly different comparing patients and controls. The serum level of IGF-1 was 179.8±72.8 µg/L in AV patients compared to 164.6±63.7 µg/L in controls (P=0.056). The serum level of insulin in female patients was significantly higher than controls. The HOMA was 3.54±5.6 in patients compared to 1.16±1.4 (P<0.001) in controls. Significantly higher levels of fasting blood sugar (FBS), total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) were detected in female patients than controls. However, the level of estradiol was significantly lower in female patients than in controls. In females, the presence of the MTHFR T allele was associated with significantly higher levels of FBS and LDL-C, as well as a significantly lower level of estradiol compared to those carriers of the C allele.

Conclusion

We found the absence of an association between IGF-1 and MTHFR polymorphisms with the risk of AV. However, increased insulin, IGF-1, and HOMA levels in AV patients indicated the effect of insulin and insulin resistance in the risk of AV and its severity.

Membrane bioreactors troubleshooting through the preparation of a high antifouling PVDF ultrafiltration mixed-matrix membrane blended with O-carboxymethyl chitosan-Fe3O4 nanoparticles

Polymeric ultrafiltration (UF) membranes often used in membrane bioreactor (MBR) prone to be fouled by fouling agents. Therefore, in this paper, the antifouling characteristics of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) UF membranes for wastewater treatment are improved through modifying membranes by O-carboxymethyl chitosan (OCMCS)-functionalized Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (OCMCSFe₃O₄). The modifier agent was manufactured by the adsorption of OCMCS on Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles, which were synthesized via co-precipitating method. Antifouling performance of membranes was assessed by permeation tests done using activated sludge suspension as a biological foulant, then the calculation of the pure water flux recovery ratio (FRR) and fouling resistance parameters. Also, to investigate the protein rejection of membranes, permeation tests were conducted by the bovine serum albumin (BSA) solution. According to the obtained results, surface hydrophilicity of the embedded membranes was improved in the low concentrations of the modified nanoparticles. However, the high quantity of the OCMCS-Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles (>0.1 wt. %) in the casting solution lessened membrane performance owing to the agglomeration of the nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. Although, the 1 wt. % OCMCS-Fe₃O₄ membrane revealed considerably higher PWF and permeation than that of the other membranes. It was because of defects and cracks in the membranes. The 0.05 wt. % OCMCS-Fe₃O₄/PVDF membrane exhibited the highest FRR (95.7%) and protein rejection value (48%) and the lowest irreversible fouling resistance (Rir) value (4.2%). It is concluded that the blended membranes with modified nanoparticles resulted in a high-flux ultrafiltration membrane comparable with microfiltration membrane, while its separation properties remained similar to UF membrane.

Association between CYP19A<G rs700518 Polymorphism with Acne Vulgaris and its Severity: Influence on Sex Hormones Level

Acne vulgaris (AV) is a common skin disease that causes physical and psychological problems for the affected individual. In addition to systemic changes in hormone levels, overproduction of local steroids, especially androgens are associated with AV. Cytochrome (CYP) 19 is involved in the synthesis of estrogens. The aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of CYP19A <G rs700518 variants on sex hormones level and the risk of AV. In this case-control study, 181 patients with AV and 144 healthy individuals from Western Iran were investigated. The CYP19 variants were detected by PCR-RFLP method. The frequency of GG genotype in all patients (27.1%) was significantly higher than the controls (10.4%, P<0.001), which increased the relative risk of AV by 1.96 times. Also, the presence of this genotype was associated with 1.5-fold (P=0.005), 1.89-fold (P=0.011) and 3.33-fold (P=0.019) increased risk of mild, moderate and severe AV, respectively. A significantly higher serum level of estradiol was observed in women in the presence of AA genotype (107.3±72.1 pg/ml) in comparison with GG genotype (73.2±58.8 pg/ml) (P=0.009). Our study demonstrated that the GG genotype of CYP19 rs700518 polymorphism increased the risk of AV and the severity of the disease, and also was associated with lower levels of estradiol in females. Significantly decreased serum level of sex hormone-binding globulin in women with AV in comparison with healthy individuals could be related to increasing level of androgen that was observed in women with AV.

NOTCH1, SF3B1, MDM2 and MYD88 mutations in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia

Mutations in certain genes have been suggested to be associated with the pathogenesis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), which is the most common leukemia in adults. In a case-control study, 100 patients with CLL and 105 healthy individuals were investigated for Notch homolog 1, translocation-associated (Drosophila) (NOTCH1) c.7544-7545delCT, recombinant splicing factor 3B subunit 1 (SF3B1) c.2098A>G, mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2) 40-bp insertion/deletion and myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MYD88) L265P mutations by using allele specific-polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR), a designed AS-PCR, PCR and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism methods, respectively. The presence of NOTCH1 and SF3B1 mutations were confirmed by genomic DNA sequencing. The NOTCH1 mutation was detected in 10% of patients and not detected in the control group. A higher frequency of NOTCH1 mutation was detected in patients with stage III CLL (62.5%) compared with stages 0-II CLL (37.5%) (odds ratio, 4.69-fold; 95% confidence interval, 1.0-21.9; P=0.049). The SF3B1 mutation was observed in 12% of the patients compared with 1.9% of the controls (P=0.012). The presence of MDM2 polymorphism was not associated with the risk or the stage of the disease. In addition, the MYD88 L265P mutation was not detected in the patients or the controls. The current study established the frequency of NOTCH1, SF3B1, MDM2 and MYD88 mutations in patients with CLL from the Kurdish population of Western Iran. In summary, a high frequency of NOTCH1 and SF3B1 mutations were identified in patients with CLL compared with healthy individuals, and the NOTCH1 mutation was associated with a high stage of the disease.

The effect of VDR gene polymorphisms and vitamin D level on blood pressure, risk of preeclampsia, gestational age, and body mass index

We investigated the influence of vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms and vitamin D level on the blood pressure and the risk of preeclampsia. In a case-control study, 200 pregnant women, including 100 individuals with preeclampsia along with 100 healthy pregnant women, were studied for VDR FokI, TaqI, and BmsI polymorphisms and serum 25 (OH)-D level using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method and commercial kit, respectively. The mean level of 25 (OH)-D in preeclamptic patients was significantly lower (16.6 ± 4.2 ng/mL, P < 0.001) compared with controls (19.6 ± 3.8 ng/mL). Among all women, a significantly higher systolic blood pressure and before-pregnancy body mass index and also lower gestational age were observed in the presence of 25 (OH)-D level < 20 ng/mL compared with the 20 to 30 ng/mL. A significantly higher frequency of VDR FokI C allele in preeclamptic patients (83%) than controls (74%) was associated with a 1.72-fold increased risk of preeclampsia. In all the studied individuals, the systolic and diastolic blood pressures were significantly higher in the presence of the FokI CC genotype compared with the TC and TT+TC genotypes. Neither VDR Taq1 nor VDR BmsI was associated with the risk of preeclampsia. The haplotype FokI C, TaqI C and BmsI A (CCA) compared with haplotype CTG increased the risk of preeclampsia by 1.4-fold (P = 0.33). Our study suggests an association between VDR FokI polymorphism and an insufficient serum level of 25 (OH)-D with the risk of preeclampsia and also the influence of insufficient 25 (OH)-D level and VDR FokI polymorphism on maternal factors, including blood pressure.

The Association of PPARγ Pro12Ala and C161T Polymorphisms with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Their Influence on Lipid and Lipoprotein Profiles

Background

The aim of present study was to clarify the role of the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ Pro12Ala and C161T polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and their influence on lipid and lipoprotein profiles of patients.

Materials and Methods

The present cross-sectional study consisted of 50 women with PCOS, who referred to the Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences Clinic between April and October 2015, and 233 unrelated age-matched healthy women from the same region (West Iran). The PPARγ Pro12Ala and PPARγ C161T polymorphisms were gen- otyped using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), serum triglycerides (TG), cholesterol, low density lipoprotein- cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein- cholesterol (HDL-C) and estradiol levels were measured.

Results

The serum level of estradiol was significantly lower in PCOS patients compared to healthy women. The PPARγ Pro12Ala (CG) genotype increased the risk of PCOS 2.96-fold. The frequency of the PPARγ T allele (at C161T) was 21% in patients and 17.2% in controls with no significant difference (P=0.52). In all studied individuals, the PPARγ CG geno- type was associated with significantly higher levels of TG. However, significantly lower levels of total cholesterol and LDL-C were observed in PPARγ TT individuals compared with those with the CC genotype. Within the PCOS group, the PPARγ CG genotype was significantly associated with lower levels of estradiol compared with the CC genotype. Also, the CG genotype was significantly associated with higher levels of TG when compared with the CC genotype.

Conclusion

Our study shows that, unlike PPARγ C161T, PPARγ Pro12Ala is associated with the risk of PCOS. Also, we found that the lipid and lipoprotein profiles significantly vary based on PPARγ Pro12Ala and C161T genotypes.

PPARγ Pro12Ala and C161T polymorphisms in patients with acne vulgaris: Contribution to lipid and lipoprotein profile

PURPOSE

The aim of present study was to clarify the role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) Pro12Ala and C161T variants in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris (AV) and their influence on lipid and lipoprotein profile.

METHODS

The present case-control study consisted of 393 individuals including 198 patients with AV (mild-, moderate-, and severe-AV) and 195 unrelated age-matched healthy individuals from Western Iran. The PPARγ Pro12Ala and C161T polymorphisms were identified using polymerase chain reaction-restriction length polymorphism method. Also, serum lipid and lipoprotein profile and fasting blood sugar (FBS) were detected in studied individuals.

RESULTS

In women patients with AV significantly higher serum levels of FBS, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) and high density lipoprotein-cholesterol compared to healthy women were detected. Neither PPARγ Pro12Ala nor C161T polymorphism was associated with the risk of AV but the Pro allele was a risk factor for AV among all men and women patients ≥20years. The variant genotype of PPARγ CG (Pro/Ala) was associated with significantly higher levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides compared to CC (Pro/Pro) genotype. We detected a significantly lower level of FBS in the presence of CT+TT genotype of PPARγ C161T compared to CC genotype. Also, carriers of PPARγ TT genotype had significantly lower serum level of total cholesterol and LDL-C compared to CC genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results demonstrated the association of PPARγ Pro allele with susceptibility to AV in patients ≥20years and the influence of PPARγ Pro12Ala and C161T polymorphisms on the lipid and lipoprotein profile.

Association of the CYP17 MSP AI (T-34C) and CYP19 codon 39 (Trp/Arg) polymorphisms with susceptibility to acne vulgaris

The aim of this study was to detect the association of the cytochrome P450 (CYP) 17 T-34C and CYP19 T<C polymorphisms with the risk of acne vulgaris (AV). The study enrolled 198 patients with AV (mild, moderate and severe) and 195 unrelated age-matched healthy controls from western Iran who had Kurdish ethnic background. The presence of the CYP17 TC genotype significantly increased the risk of mild, moderate and severe AV by 2.68, 2.28 and 2.94 times, respectively, while the presence of the CYP19 TC genotype significantly elevated the risk of overall AV and mild AV by 2.1 and 3.2 times, respectively. There was a synergy between the CYP 17 TC and CYP19 TT genotypes, which increased the risk of AV by 2.45-fold (P < 0.001). To our knowledge, this is the first study showing that the CYP17 T-34C and CYP19 T<C variants and their synergy are associated with susceptibility to AV in an Iranian population.

Matrix metalloproteinase-2 C-735T and its interaction with matrix metalloproteinase-7 A-181G polymorphism are associated with the risk of preeclampsia: influence on total antioxidant capacity and blood pressure

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) -2 C-735 T and MMP-7 A-181 G genotypes were studied in 144 pregnant patients with mild and severe preeclampsia and 103 healthy pregnant women. Significantly higher frequencies of CT and TT genotypes in patients compared to controls increased the risk of preeclampsia by 2.42 and 3.13 times, respectively. In severe preeclamptic women in the presence of MMP-2 CT the level of total antioxidant capacity was significantly lower than MMP-2 CC genotype. Also, in the presence of MMP-2 CT + TT blood pressure was significantly increased compared to CC genotype in all the patients. The combined presence of MMP-2 T and the MMP-7 A alleles compared to MMP-2 C and MMP-7 A alleles significantly increased the risk of preeclampsia by 3.08-fold. Our findings demonstrate an association between the MMP-2 C-735 T polymorphism with blood pressure and the risk of preeclampsia. Also, in the presence of polymorphism total antioxidant capacity level decreased in severe preeclampsia. Impact statement What is already known on this subject: Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) including MMP-2 might be involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia through alteration of invasive ability of trophoblastic cells and abnormal placentation. In one available study the absence of association between MMP-2 C-735T polymorphism with gestational hypertension or preeclampsia has been reported. What the results of this study add: We found that the presence of MMP-2 C-735T polymorphism increased the risk of preeclampsia and there was a significantly lower level of total antioxidant capacity in the presence of the polymorphism in severe preeclampsia. Also, we found significantly higher systolic and diastolic blood pressures in the presence of MMP-2 C-735T polymorphism. We detected a synergism between the MMP-2 T and the MMP-7 A alleles that increased the risk of preeclampsia. What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research: New findings of our study are involvement of lower activity MMP-2 -735 T allele and its synergism with MMP-7 A allele, low promoter activity allele, in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia through possible impairment of placentation and also by decreased total antioxidant capacity and increased blood pressure. Further association studies of the role of MMP-2 polymorphism and MMP-2 activity in relation to oxidative stress parameters and blood pressure could elucidate the role of MMP-2 and MMP-7 in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.

Angiotensin type 1 receptor A1166C polymorphism and systemic lupus erythematosus: correlation with cellular immunity and oxidative stress markers

Angiotensin II, one of the rennin–angiotensin system components, is important in the cardiovascular hemodynamic and plays an important role in the development of cardiovascular disease in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. The angiotensin II, through interaction with angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AGTR1), promotes proliferation, inflammation and fibrosis. The single nucleotide polymorphism of the AGTR1 (dbSNP: rs5186) gene can be associated with development and progression of SLE disease. The aims of this study were to compare the frequency of AGTR1 rs5186 in SLE patients with healthy individuals and to evaluate possible association between AGTR1 A1166C gene polymorphism and serum level of lipids, neopterin and malondialdehyde in SLE patients from a population of West Iran. One hundred SLE patients and 98 healthy subjects were studied. The AGTR1 A1166C polymorphism was detected by polymerase chain reaction– restriction fragment length polymorphism method and the serum lipid profile was obtained by enzymatic method. Neopterin and malondialdehyde were detected using high-performance liquid chromatography. We did not detect significant association between AGTR1 A1166C polymorphism and the risk of SLE. The levels of triglyceride (225 ± 118 mg/dl), neopterin (30 ± 24 nmol/l) and malondialdehyde (25 ± 9.6 nmol/l) in SLE patients were significantly higher than those in control subjects (139 ± 56 mg/dl, p = 0.03, 6.4 ± 2, p = 0.03, 9.4 ± 2.5 nmol/l, p = 0.01, respectively). Individuals with AGTR1 AC + CC genotype had higher levels of total cholesterol and malondialdehyde compared with those with AGTR1 AA genotype. SLE patients with either AGTR1 AA or AGTR1AC + CC genotype had significantly higher malondialdehyde or neopterin levels compared with the corresponding control subjects. In conclusion, although the present study did not find any association between AGTR1 A1166C polymorphism and the risk of SLE, the presence of this polymorphism was associated with higher levels of malondialdehyde and higher concentration of neopterin in patients.

ACE I/D and MMP-7 A-181G variants and the risk of end stage renal disease

The variants of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) genes might be involved in the pathogenesis of end stage renal disease (ESRD) and hypertension. We studied the ACE insertion/deletion (I/D) and MMP-7 A-181G variants in 99 unrelated ESRD patients and 117 individuals without renal complications from Western Iran with Kurdish ethnic background. The frequency of ACE I/D variants was not significantly different between ESRD patients and controls. However, the presence of ACE D allele increased the risk of hypertension in ESRD patients by 2.14-fold (P=0.036). The MMP-7 -181 AG genotype increased the risk of ESRD by 2.04 times (P=0.026). The present study indicated the absence of an association between the ACE I/D polymorphism with the risk of ESRD. However, the ACE D allele increased the risk of hypertension in ESRD patients. Also, the present study suggests a role for MMP-7 AG genotype in the pathogenesis of ESRD.

Association between the cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 mutations and the susceptibility to systemic lupus erythematosus; Contribution markers of inflammation and oxidative stress

The cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) also known as CD152 (cluster of differentiation 152) is a crucial negative regulator of the immune system. This protein receptor provides negative signals in order to suppress T-cell activation and immune attack against self-antigens, although its role is unclear.  The ability of CTLA-4 to limit T cell-mediated immune response has made it a major target in treatment of tumors and autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). In this study, we investigated whether CTLA-4 G-1661A and CTLA-4 T-1722C mutations are associated with SLE. So one hundred nine SLE patients and 101 gender and age-matched unrelated healthy controls were recruited for this case-control study. The promoter mutations were detected by PCR-RFLP, neopterin, malondialdehyde (MDA) and serum lipid concentration were determined by HPLC and enzyme assay, respectively.

RESULT

We found that both codominant (AA vs. GG) and recessive (AA vs. GA+GG) CTLA-4 G-1661A mutation significantly decreased the risk of SLE by 1.7 and 3.7 times, respectively.  Interestingly, SLE patients with AA genotypes of CTLA-4 G-1661A have lower neopterin and MDA concentration compared with GA+GG genotypes. The overall distribution of CTLA-4 T-1722C genotypes and alleles in SLE patients were similar to those in control group. In conclusion, our findings showed, that there is an association between systemic inflammatory markers, oxidative stress and the CTLA-4 G-1661A GG+AG genotypes, MDA and neopterin which are the most conventional risk factors for coronary heart disease, therefore these mutations may be consider as a risk factor for susceptibility to heart disease in SLE patients.

Allele specific-PCR and melting curve analysis showed relatively high frequency of β-casein gene A1 allele in Iranian Holstein, Simmental and native cows

There are two allelic forms of A1 and A2 of β-casein gene in dairy cattle. Proteolytic digestion of bovine β-casein A1 type produces bioactive peptide of β-casomorphin-7 known as milk devil. β-casomorphin-7 causes many diseases, including type 1 diabetes, cardiovascular disease syndrome, sudden death and madness. The aim of the present study was to determine the different allelic forms of β-casein gene in Iranian Holstein, Simmental and native cattle in order to identify A1 and A2 variants. The blood samples were collected randomly and DNA was extracted using modified salting out method. An 854 bp fragment including part of exon 7 and part of intron 6 of β-casein gene was amplified by allele specific polymerase chain reaction (AS-PCR). Also, the accuracy of AS-PCR genotyping has been confirmed by melting temperature curve analysis using Real-time PCR machinery. The comparison of observed allele and genotype frequency among the studied breeds was performed using the Fisher exact and Chi-squared test, respectively by SAS program. Obtained results showed the A1 allele frequencies of 50, 51.57, 54.5, 49.4 and 46.6% in Holstein, Simmental, Sistani, Taleshi and Mazandarani cattle populations, respectively. The chi-square test was shown that no any populations were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium for studied marker locus. Comparison and analysis of the test results for allelic frequency showed no any significant differences between breeds (P&gt;0.05). The frequency of observed genotypes only differs significantly between Holstein and Taleshi breeds but no any statistically significant differences were found for other breeds (P&gt;0.05). A relatively high frequency of β-casein A1 allele was observed in Iranian native cattle. Therefore, determine the genotypes and preference alleles A2 in these native and commercial cattle is recommended.

The T Allele of MTHFR c.C677T and Its Synergism with G (Val 158) Allele of COMT c.G472A Polymorphism Are Associated with the Risk of Bipolar I Disorder

AIMS

The aims of the present study were to investigate the association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) c.C677T (p.A222V) and catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) c.G472A (p.V158M) polymorphisms and their synergism with respect to bipolar I disorder (BID).

METHODS

Within an ethnic Kurdish population from Western Iran the MTHFR c.C677T and COMT c.G472A polymorphisms were studied in 150 patients with BID and 149 gender- and age-matched healthy individuals using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method.

RESULTS

In the presence of MTHFR 677T allele and MTHFR TT genotype, the risk of BID was 1.44 times (p = 0.046) and 1.81-fold (p = 0.029), respectively. The frequency of COMT 472G allele compared to the A allele in cases and controls was not significant (p = 0.078); however there was a synergism between the presence of MTHFR 677T and COMT 472G alleles that increased the risk of BID by 2.58-fold (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that the presence of the lower activity allele of MTHFR (677T) increased the risk of BID. In addition, the concomitant presence of the MTHFR 677T allele with the COMT 472G allele was associated with increased susceptibility to BID in our population.

Evaluation of MMP-7 A-181G and MMP-2 C-735T polymorphisms in healthy population from western Iran

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in multiple physiological and pathological processes. Variable frequency of the MMPs gene variants might affect the susceptibility to certain diseases. The aim of present study was to investigate the frequency of MMP-7 A-181G and MMP-2 C-735T variants in healthy population of Western Iran with Kurdish ethnic background. Individuals were medical students and staff members of the Medical School of Kermanshah University and blood donors that consisted of 221 females and 94 males. Control subjects were free of general and genetic diseases. Two hundred and eighty available samples including 192 females and 88 males were studied for MMP-2 C-735T polymorphism. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes. The MMP-7 A-181G and MMP-2 C-735T polymorphisms were detected using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. The prevalence of MMP-7 G allele was 40% in studied individuals. The overall frequency of MMP-2 -735T allele was 15%. There was a higher frequency of MMP-2 T allele in females (16.9%) compared to males (10.8%, p=0.059). There were 30 (13.6%) women and 8 men (8.5%) with concomitant presence of MMP-7 AG and MMP-2 CT genotypes. All nine (4.1%) individuals with combined presence of MMP-7 GG and MMP-2 CT genotypes were women. The present study reports the frequency of two MMPs gene polymorphisms in healthy population of Western Iran. Our findings might be useful in evaluating the risk of MMPs in certain diseases. Also, our study suggests genetic admixture and similarities between our population with some Asian and European populations.

MMP-7 A-181G Polymorphism in Breast Cancer Patients from Western Iran

BACKGROUND

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are upregulated in tumors. The MMP-7 A-181G polymorphism is associated with increased expression of the MMP-7 gene. Aim of the present study was to investigate the association between the MMP-7 A-181G polymorphism and susceptibility to breast cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The MMP-7 A-181G variants were studied in a cohort of 251 subjects consisting of 100 breast cancer patients and 151 healthy controls; all were from Western Iran. The MMP-7 A-181G genotypes were identified using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis.

RESULTS

The frequencies of the MMP-7 AA, AG, and GG genotypes in healthy individuals were 34.4, 50.4, and 15.2%, respectively. In breast cancer patients, the frequencies of AA (34%), AG (52%), and GG (14%) genotypes (p = 0.95) were similar to those in the controls. There was a trend toward an increased frequency of the combined genotype of MMP-7 AG+GG in patients with lymph node metastasis (70.4%) compared to those without metastasis (66.7%). Also, in patients with invasive lobular carcinoma, the frequency of the MMP-7 AG+GG genotype tended to be higher (71.4%) compared to that in patients with invasive ductal carcinoma (66.2%) (p = 0.78).

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate that the MMP-7 A-181G polymorphism may not be correlated with susceptibility to breast cancer in our population.

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 -1562T allele and its combination with MMP-2 -735 C allele are risk factors for breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) is up-regulated in human cancers. The aim of present study was to investigate the role of MMP-9 C-1562T polymorphism and its interaction with MMP- 2 C-735T polymorphism in susceptibility to breast cancer in a population from Western Iran with Kurdish ethnic background.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study sample of 205 individuals consisted of 101 breast cancer patients and 104 healthy subjects. MMP-9 C-1562T and MMP-2 C-735T variants were identified using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method.

RESULTS

Among 67.4% of studied patients the breast cancer developed in the third and forth decades of the life. The frequency of MMP-9 T allele was 17.3% in patients and 10.1% in controls. The presence of T allele significantly increased the risk of breast cancer by 1.87-fold [OR=1.87 (95% CI 1.05-3.33, p=0.035)]. The frequency of MMP-9 CT+TT genotype tended to be higher in those patients with a family history of cancer in first degree-relatives (36.8%) than those without a family history (28.3%, p=0.37). We observed an interaction between the MMP-9 -1562 T allele with MMP-2 -735 C allele that significantly increased the risk of breast cancer [OR=1.42 (95% CI 1.02- 1.98, p=0.036)].

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrated that MMP-9 C-1562T polymorphism alone and in combination with MMP-2 C-735T polymorphism increased the risk of breast cancer that might be a useful biomarker in identifying women at risk of developing breast cancer. Also, this study revealed that in most women from Western Iran breast cancer presents in third and fourth decades of life.

Cancer notification at a referral hospital of Kermanshah, Western Iran (2006-2009)

BACKGROUND

Cancer is a major public health problem and the leading cause of mortality in both males and females in developed and developing countries. The incidence of cancer is gender dependent. Among Iranians, it is the third cause of death.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The information recorded in the files of all patients (7,695 individuals) pathologically diagnosed with cancer in Imam Reza referral hospital of Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences during the four year period of 2006-2009 were reviewed and analyzed using SPSS statistical software package version 16.0.

RESULTS

Around 61.6% of reported cancer cases were males and 38.4% were females. The most prevalent reported malignant tumors occurred at the age group of 70-79 years in males and in females these tumors were presented in the ages of 60-69 years. The most prevalent cancers among studied patients were gastrointestinal (GI) cancers with a frequency of 22.9% [gastric 10.7%, colorectal 6.9%, and esophageal 6%]. The second, third and forth prevalent cancers were blood at 16.4%, lung 13.5% and bladder 12.8%, respectively. In males the cancers of GI (25.6%) were the most prevalent followed in order of frequency by bladder (18%), blood (17.6%), lung (17.4%) and prostate (6.8%) . In females the most frequent recorded cancer was breast (24.1%) followed in order of frequency by GI (20.5%), blood (14.4%), lung (7.3%), uterus (6.2%) and ovary (5.1%) . Breast cancer was the most prevalent cancer (27%) in the age group of 40-49 years.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study provides frequency data for various types of cancers in both males and females from a referral hospital of Kermanshah that are comparable with some reports from other areas of the country.

AT1R A1166C variants in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetic nephropathy

Background: There are inconsistent reports related to the role of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) on the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its renal complications.

Objectives: To identify the association between AT1R A1166C variants with the risk of T2DM and also with diabetic nephropathy (DN). Patients and Methods: In a case-control study, the AT1R A1166C polymorphism was detected in 135 T2DM patients with and without DN and in 98 healthy subjects from Western Iran. The genotypes of AT1R A1166C polymorphism were detected using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method.

Results: The frequencies of AT1R A1166C genotypes and alleles were not significantly difference between patients with and without DN and controls. The frequencies of rare allele of 1166 C were 10%, 16.5%, 15.9% and 15.3% in micro-, macro- and normo-albuminuric patients and in healthy individuals, respectively ( P > 0.05). The systolic blood pressure and serum creatinine level in DN patients were significantly higher in carriers of AT1R CC compared to carriers of AT1R AA genotype. In the presence of uncontrolled hyperglycemia (HbA1c > 7.5%), there was a trend toward increased risk of macro-albuminuria in carriers of AC+CC genotype (OR=3.66, [95% CI: 0.81-16.58], P = 0.092).

Conclusions: Our study indicated the absence of an association between AT1R A1166C polymorphism with the risk of T2DM and DN. It seems in carriers of AT1R C allele systolic blood pressure and serum creatinine level to be higher compared to the A allele carriers.

The serotonin transporter (5-HTTLPR) but not serotonin receptor (5-HT2C Cys23Ser) variant is associated with bipolar I disorder in Kurdish population from Western Iran

The role of 5-HTTLPR and 5-HT2C Cys23Ser polymorphisms in the psychopathology of mood disorders and suicide behavior is controversial. The aim of present study was to investigate the association between 5-HTTLPR and 5-HT2C Cys23Ser variants and susceptibility to bipolar I disorder (BID). The 5-HT2C genotypes were studied in 152 patients with BID and 173 gender- and age-matched healthy individuals with Kurds ethnic background from Western Iran using PCR and PCR-RFLP methods. In recessive model (SS vs. LL+LS) the SS genotype was associated with 1.79-fold increased risk of BID (p=0.018). Also, the presence of S allele increased the risk of adult-onset BID by 1.76-fold (p=0.027). No association was detected between 5-HTTLPR genotypes and alleles with suicide attempt. The frequency of 5-HT2C Ser allele in patients and controls were 12.3 and 12.5%, respectively. Mutant allele of HT2C Ser had higher frequency in female (14.7%) than male (10.5%, p=0.27) patients. The frequency of HT2C Ser allele in patients with a family history of BID tended to be higher (15.7%) than those without a family history of the disease (11.8%). The frequency of HT2C Ser allele in suicide attempter women was higher (16.7%) than those without a suicide attempt (14.3%). Our findings demonstrate 5-HTTLPR polymorphism might be a risk factor for BID and adult-onset BID in Kurds population. However, we found the lack of an association between 5-HT2C Cys/Ser variants and the risk of BID.

Matrix metalloproteinase 9 polymorphisms and systemic lupus erythematosus: correlation with systemic inflammatory markers and oxidative stress

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that involves multiple organs and is characterized by persistent systemic inflammation. Among the effects of inflammatory mediators, the induction of matrix metalloproteinases-2 and -9 (MMP-2 and MMP-9) and oxidative stress has been demonstrated to be important in the development of SLE. In this study, the possible association between MMP-9 and MMP-2 functional promoter polymorphism, stress, and inflammatory markers with development of severe cardiovascular disease (CVD), high blood pressure (HBP), and lupus nephropathy (LN) in SLE patients was investigated. The present case-control study consisted of 109 SLE patients with and without CVD, HBP and LN and 101 gender- and age-matched unrelated healthy controls from a population in western Iran. MMP-2 –G1575A and MMP-9 –C1562T polymorphisms were detected by PCR-RFLP, serum MMP-2 and MMP-9, neopterin, malondialdehyde (MDA) and lipid levels were determined by ELISA, HPLC and enzyme assay, respectively. We found that MMP-9 –C1562 T and MMP-2 –G1575A alleles act synergistically to increase the risk of SLE by 2.98 times ( p = 0.015). Findings of this study also demonstrated that there is a significant increase in the serum levels of MMP-2, neopterin and MDA and a significant decrease in serum level of MMP-9 in the presence of MMP-9-C1562 T and MMP-2 –G1575A alleles in SLE patients compared to controls. Further, SLE patients with MMP-9 (C/T + T/T) genotype had significantly higher serum concentrations of MMP-2, neopterin, MDA and LDL-C, but lower serum MMP-9 and HDL-C levels than corresponding members of the control group. MMP-9 (C/T + T/T) genotype increased risk of hypertension in SLE patients 2.71-fold. This study for the first time not only suggests that MMP-9 –C1562 T and MMP-2 –G1575A alleles synergistically increase the risk of SLE but also high serum levels of MDA, neopterin, and circulatory levels of MMP-2 and lower MMP-9 in SLE patients. This information may be important in the evaluation of SLE progression and in the elucidation of the mechanisms of the disease pathogenesis.

Association of matrix metalloproteinase-7A-181G variants with the risk of multiple sclerosis

Aim: To investigate the influence of matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) A-181G on the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) and neurological disability. Patients & methods: The variants of MMP-7 were studied in 126 MS patients and 190 healthy controls. Results: The MMP-7 G allele and AG+GG genotype significantly increased the risk of MS in females (odds ratio: 1.59; p = 0.011) and patients with the age at disease onset of ≤19 years (odds ratio: 8.77; p = 0.038), respectively. Patients with clinical course of secondary progressive MS carriers of AG genotype had higher mean Expanded Disability Status Scale (4.9 ± 0.85; p = 0.01) compared with carriers of AA genotype (3.75 ± 0.41). Conclusion: The MMP-7 A-181G polymorphism might be associated with susceptibility to MS in females and individuals with the age at disease onset of ≤19 years and with neurological disability in secondary progressive MS.

AT2R -1332 G:A polymorphism and its interaction with AT1R 1166 A:C, ACE I/D and MMP-9 -1562 C:T polymorphisms: risk factors for susceptibility to preeclampsia

The possible association of angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) -1332 G:A polymorphism with susceptibility to preeclampsia was studied in 252 women consisted of 155 women with preeclampsia and 97 healthy pregnant women. Also, the interaction of this polymorphism with angiotensin type 1 receptor (AT1R) 1166 A:C, angiotensin converting enzyme insertion/deletion (ACE I/D) and also with matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) -1562 C:T polymorphism was investigated. The AT2R -1332 G:A polymorphism was detected using PCR-RFLP method. Significantly higher frequencies of GG+GA genotype and G allele of AT2R were observed in mild (80.2%, p=0.003 and 47.5%, p=0.012, respectively) and severe (77.8%, p=0.034 and 48.1%, p=0.026, respectively) preeclampsia compared to controls (60.8% and 35.1%, respectively). The presence of G allele was associated with 1.69-fold increased risk of preeclampsia (p=0.005). In severe preeclamptic women, systolic and diastolic blood pressures in the presence of GG+GA genotype were significantly higher compared to those in the presence of AA genotype. The concomitant presence of both alleles of AT2R G and AT1R C was associated with 1.3 times increased risk of mild preeclampsia (p=0.03). There was an interaction between AT2R G and ACE D alleles that significantly increased the risk of mild and severe preeclampsia by 1.38- and 1.3-fold, respectively. Also, interaction between MMP-9 T and AT2R G alleles increased the risk of severe preeclampsia 1.39-fold (p=0.028). Our study demonstrated that the G allele of AT2R -1332 G:A polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of preeclampsia. Also, epistatic interaction of G allele and each allele of the AT1R C, ACE D and MMP-9 T was associated with the risk of preeclampsia. Our findings suggest that the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) variants and gene-gene interactions affect the risk of preeclampsia.

Synergistic effects of BuChE non-UU phenotype and paraoxonase (PON1) 55 M allele on the risk of systemic lupus erythematosus: influence on lipid and lipoprotein metabolism and oxidative stress, preliminary report

There is some evidence indicating lipid peroxidation can affect progression of atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and glomerulonephritis in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Human butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) are two major bioscavenger enzymes that are associated with inflammation, oxidative stress and lipid metabolism. Hyperlipidemia, increase in lipid oxidation reactions and defects in antioxidant status may lead to increased oxidative stress and high frequency of CVDs in SLE. It has also been suggested that deficiency in the function of the antioxidant system and an increase in reactive oxygen release (ROS) may play an important role in the pathogenesis of SLE. This study is the first investigation to examine the association of BuChE phenotypes, PON1 (L55M; PON-55-M) polymorphism, the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), neopterin, lipid-lipoprotein and activities of BuChE and arylesterase activity (ARE) of PON with severity of SLE.

The present case-control study consisted of 109 SLE patients and 101 gender- and age-matched, unrelated healthy control subjects from the population of west Iran. We found that the PON-55-M allele and BuChE non-UU act synergistically to increase the risk of SLE by 2.5 times (1.03–6.7, p = 0.044). There was a significant negative correlation between severity of SLE with serum BuChE activity ( R = −0.31, p < 0.001) and positive correlation with serum neopterin level. The SLE patients with the PON-55-M (M/L + M/M) allele or with BuChE non-UU phenotype had significantly lower serum ARE and BuChE activities than those with PON-55-L/L or BuChE-UU phenotypes, respectively. In addition, their serum levels of MDA, neopterin and LDL-C were significantly elevated, suggesting that these individuals are more susceptible to CVD. However, further studies are needed to shed more light on the contribution of the M allele of PON1 and non-UU phenotypes of BuChE in the development of SLE in different ethnicities.

eNOS 4a/b polymorphism and its interaction with eNOS G894T variants in type 2 diabetes mellitus: modifying the risk of diabetic nephropathy

To investigate the possible association between eNOS 4a/b polymorphism and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and diabetic nephropathy (DN) 173 T2DM patients with and without DN and 101 healthy subjects with ethnic background of Kurds were examined for the frequency of eNOS variants using PCR-RFLP method. The frequency of eNOS 4a/b genotypes between T2DM and controls was not significantly difference. Studying eNOS 4a/b variants alone indicated that the presence of eNOS 4a allele was not associated with the risk of developing DN. However, considering both polymorphisms of eNOS 4a/b and G894T indicated that the risk of macroalbuminuria significantly increased in the presence of either eNOS 4a or 894T allele by 2.45 times (p=0.014) and 3.7-fold (p=0.016), respectively. However, the concomitant presence of both alleles was not associated with the risk of macroalbuminuria. In microalbuminuric patients, in the presence of each allele, the risk of microalbuminuria increased 2.2 times (p=0.028) and 2.72-fold (p=0.057) for eNOS 4a and 894T alleles, respectively. However, the combined presence of both eNOS 894T and 4a alleles was not associated with the risk of microalbuminuria. The present study indicates the absence of association between eNOS 4a/b variants and the risk of developing T2DM and DN. Also, we demonstrated that eNOS 4a or 894T allele alone increased the risk of developing DN but this effect was modified by the concomitant presence of both alleles.

AT2R -1332 G:A polymorphism and diabetic nephropathy in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients

Introduction: The rennin-angiotensin system (RAS) plays a central role in the regulation of sodium metabolism, vascular tone, blood pressure, renal hemodynamics, and vascular modeling and is activated by hyperglycemiaObjectives: In the present study the influence of AT2R -1332 G:A polymorphism on the risk of T2DM and its complications in a population from Western Iran has been investigated.

Patients and Methods: In a case-control study, 70 individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) including normo-, micro- and macro-albuminuric patients and 112 healthy subjects from the Kermanshah province were studied to investigate the association between the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT2R) -1332 G:A variants with the risk of T2DM and its complications. The genotypes of the AT2R were detected using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Analysis of AT2R -1332 G:A polymorphism indicated the absence of association between this polymorphism with T2DM and diabetic nephropathy.

Results: Analysis of AT2R -1332 G:A polymorphism indicated the absence of association between this polymorphism with T2DM and diabetic nephropathy. In females with diabetic nephropathy a significantly higher frequency of AA genotype (50%) was detected compared to those without nephropathy (13.3%, p=0.015). The presence of A allele of AT2R was associated with significantly (p=0.029) increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) in diabetic patients without nephropathy.

Conclusion: Our study indicated an association between the AT2R -1332 G:A polymorphism and the risk of diabetic nephropathy in females only. Also, the A allele was associated with the risk of CAD in those diabetic patients without nephropathy.

MMP-9 (-1562 C:T) polymorphism as a biomarker of susceptibility to severe pre-eclampsia

AIM

To investigate the role of MMP-9 (-1562 C:T) polymorphism as a biomarker for susceptibility to pre-eclampsia.

PATIENTS & METHODS

MMP-9 variants were detected in 160 women with mild and severe pre-eclampsia and 112 healthy pregnant women.

RESULTS

A significantly higher frequency of MMP-9 CT genotype was observed in both mild and severe pre-eclamptic women compared with controls. In the presence of CT + TT genotype the risk of severe pre-eclampsia increased 2.37-fold (p = 0.02). In women with early-onset pre-eclampsia the frequency of MMP-9 CT + TT genotype was significantly higher (p = 0.045) compared with those with late-onset pre-eclampsia.

CONCLUSION

The MMP-9 variant could be a useful biomarker of susceptibility to severe pre-eclampsia and early-onset severe pre-eclampsia.

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) 55 polymorphism, lipid profiles and psoriasis

BACKGROUND

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) is a serum high-density lipoprotein-bound enzyme with antioxidant function. It hydrolyses lipid peroxides, protecting low-density lipoproteins from oxidative modifications. Patients with psoriasis are at greater risk of oxidative stress, which is associated with abnormal plasma lipid metabolism.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, association of the PON1 55 M allele with serum arylesterase (ARE) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), lipid profiles and psoriasis was investigated.

METHODS

The present case-control study consisted of 100 patients with psoriasis with and without cardiovascular diseases (mean age 35·3 years) and 100 sex- and age-matched unrelated healthy controls (mean age 35·7 years) from the population of western Iran. The PON1 55 Met>Leu polymorphism was detected by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. Serum ARE activity, MDA, and lipid and apolipoprotein levels were determined spectrophotometrically, by high-performance liquid chromatography and by enzyme assay, respectively.

RESULTS

The presence of the PON1 55 M allele was found to be associated with psoriasis (odds ratio = 1·96, P = 0·017). The patients with psoriasis with the PON1 M (M/L + M/M) allele had higher MDA levels (4·12 ± 0·88 vs. 2·24 ± 0·55 μmol L(-1) , P < 0·001), apolipoprotein B (APOB)/APOA1 ratio (0·91 ± 0·66 vs. 0·66 ± 0·35, P = 0·004), APOB (111 ± 38·7 vs. 88·3 ± 22·5 mg mL(-1) , P = 0·001) and lipoprotein(a) [LP(a)] (21·9 ± 18·4 vs. 15·8 ± 16·6 mg mL(-1) , P = 0·034), but lower ARE activity (39·6 ± 11 vs. 45·9 ± 11·8 U mL(-1) , P = 0·031) than the control subjects. ARE activity showed a significant positive correlation with APOA1 and a negative correlation with MDA concentration in patients with psoriasis.

CONCLUSIONS

The PON1 55 M allele is a risk factor for psoriasis. Carriers of this allele have high levels of MDA, APOB and LP(a), a high APOB/APOA1 ratio and low ARE activity. These results indicate that oxidative stress, impairment of the antioxidant system and abnormal lipid metabolism may play a role in the pathogenesis and progression of psoriasis and its related complications. These data suggest that patients with psoriasis are more susceptible to vascular diseases.

Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase (eNOS) 4a/b and G894T Polymorphisms and Susceptibility to Preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication with unknown etiology and its incidence is associated with genetic and environmental factors. There are inconsistent reports related to the role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) 4a/b polymorphism on the risk of preeclampsia development. The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible influence of eNOS 4a/b and its synergism with eNOS G894T polymorphism on the risk of preeclampsia.

METHODS

The present case-control study consisted of 179 unrelated women with preeclampsia including 118 with mild and 61 with severe preeclampsia and 96 unrelated women with normal pregnancy as controls. All studied women were from Kermanshah Province of Iran. eNOS 4a/b and G894T genotypes were detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) methods, respectively. The categorical variables between groups were compared using χ(2) test and the Odds ratios (OR) were obtained by SPSS logistic regression. Statistical significance was assumed at p<0.05 level.

RESULTS

The frequency of eNOS a allele was slightly higher in both mild (16.5%) and severe (17.2%) preeclamptic women than controls (15.1%). Also, no significant difference was found between early- and late-onset preeclamptic women regarding the distribution of eNOS 4a/b genotypes. The presence of each allele of eNOS a or T was not associated with the risk of preeclampsia. However, the concomitant presence of both eNOS a and T alleles was associated with a non significant increased risk of severe preeclampsia by 1.77-fold (p=0.35).

CONCLUSION

The present study indicates the lack of association between eNOS a and T alleles with the risk of mild preeclampsia and a non significant increased risk of severe preeclampsia in the presence of both alleles which needs to be investigated in a study with larger samples.

Synergistic effects of angiotensinogen -217 G→A and T704C (M235T) variants on the risk of severe preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

The rate-limiting step of the renin-angiotensin system is the enzymatic cleavage of angiotensinogen (AGT) by renin. The aims of the present study were to investigate the association between AGT T704C (M235T) and -217 G→A polymorphisms with the risk of preeclampsia and synergistic effects of both polymorphisms on the susceptibility to preeclampsia.

METHODS

We studied AGT variants in 170 women with preeclampsia, including 84 women with mild and 86 women with severe forms of preeclampsia, and 100 age and parity matched controls.

RESULTS

There was a trend towards increased risk of severe preeclampsia in the presence of -217 AA (odds ratio (OR)=1.5, 95% confidence interval (CI)= 0.38-5.84, p=0.57) and TC+CC genotypes (OR=1.32, 95% CI= 0.67-2.58, p=0.42). However, the interaction of both alleles of -217A and 704C highly increased the risk of severe preeclampsia, by 2.23-fold, although this did not reach statistical significance. The frequency of the CC genotype of the T704C polymorphism in early-onset preeclampsia tended to be higher (35%) compared with that in patients with late-onset preeclampsia (21.7%).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrates that both variants of AGT -217 G→A and T704C might work in synergism to influence the risk of severe preeclampsia, which needs to be confirmed in studies with larger sample size.

Strong interaction between T allele of endothelial nitric oxide synthase with B1 allele of cholesteryl ester transfer protein TaqIB highly elevates the risk of coronary artery disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus

Background

The present study was conducted to investigate the possible outcome of interaction between endothelial nitric oxide (NOS3) G894T and cholesteryl ester transfer TaqIB variants on the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The sample included a total of 207 CAD patients (102 CAD patients with T2DM and 105 CAD patients without T2DM). There were also 101 patients with T2DM and 92 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals as controls. All study participants were from Western Iran. The sample was genotyped by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results

The presence of NOS3 T allele was not associated with the risk of CAD or T2DM, and the CETP B1 allele was only significantly associated with the increased risk of CAD in total CAD patients (odds ratio (OR) = 5.1, p = 0.019). However, the concomitant presence of both CETP B1 and NOS3 T alleles significantly increased the risk of CAD in total CAD patients (OR = 18.1, p < 0.001), in CAD patients without T2DM (OR = 27.1, p = 0.03), and in CAD patients with T2DM (OR = 13.5, p = 0.002). Also, the presence of both alleles increased the risk of T2DM (OR = 12, p = 0.004).

Conclusions

Our findings, for the first time, indicate that NOS3 T allele strongly interacts with CETP B1 allele to augment the risk of CAD and T2DM in the population of Western Iran.