TGFβ signaling pathway in salivary gland tumors

OBJECTIVE

Pleomorphic adenoma (PA), mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), and adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) are the most prevalent salivary gland tumors. Their pathogenesis has been recently associated with complex molecular cascades, including the TGFβ signaling pathway. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of genes associated with the TGFβ signaling pathway (TGFB1, ITGB6, SMAD2, SMAD4, FBN1, LTBP1, and c-MYC) to map possible downstream alterations in the TGFβ cascade.

DESIGN

Thirteen PA, 17 MEC, 13 ACC, and 10 non-neoplastic salivary gland samples were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR.

RESULTS

Cases of PA presented increased TGFB1, LTPB1, c-MYC, and FBN1 expressions, whereas SMAD2 expression was decreased when compared to non-neoplastic tissue. MEC patients displayed increased expressions of TGFB1, ITGB6, FBN1, and c-MYC and decreased expressions of SMAD2 and SMAD4. ACC cases exhibited elevated expressions of the investigated genes except TGFB1. The present results suggest that decreased expression of SMAD2 and SMAD4 does not impede the transcriptional regulation of c-MYC, especially in PA and MEC. Increased expressions of ITGB6, TGFB1, LTBP1, and FBN1 appear to be related to the regulation of the TGFβ signaling pathway in these tumors. Additionally, we observed a higher expression of SMAD4 in ACC and a raised expression of ITGB6 and lowered expression of SMAD2 in MEC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrated the differential expression of TGFβ cascade members in salivary gland tumors such as SMAD2/SMAD4 and c-MYC as well as the participation of ITGB6, TGFB1, LTBP1, and FBN1, contributing to the understanding of the mechanisms involved in tumor progression.

Co-infection of bluetongue virus serotypes 12 and 16 in sheep from Haryana, India

World Organization for Animal Health has listed bluetongue (BT) under notifiable diseases. The BT is an arboviral infectious disease of domestic and wild ruminants caused by the bluetongue virus (BTV). Southern states of India had remained the point of attention for BT since first presence in 1964 in Maharashtra. Recently, northern states of India have also been reported positive for BTV in small ruminants. The present study reported the dual infection of BTV serotypes, BTV-12 and -16 in sheep population from Sirsa district of Haryana in the year 2016. After detection and serotyping with Seg-2 specific real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the Seg-2 and Seg-6 of BTV were PCR amplified and sequenced. On phylogenetic analysis it was detected to be clustered in nucleotype G and nucleotype B specific for BTV-12 and BTV-16, respectively. This was the first report of BTV-16 from Haryana. The results signified the co-infection of two different serotypes in an animal from a single outbreak.

Molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Argentina: Evaluation of alternative diagnostic tools for the decentralization of the diagnosis

The rocketing number of COVID-19 cases highlighted the critical role that diagnostic tests play in medical and public health decision-making to contain and mitigate the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. This study reports the evaluation and implementation of different tests for the molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the central region of Argentina. We evaluated 3 real time RT-PCR kits (GeneFinder COVID-19 Plus RealAmp Kit, DisCoVery SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Detection Kit and WGene SARS-CoV-2 RT Detection), 2 nucleic acid extraction methods [MagaBio plus Virus DNA/RNA Purification Kit II (BioFlux), 35-min vs. 9-min], a pre-analytical reagent (FlashPrep®) and 2 isothermal amplification tests (Neokit Plus and ELA CHEMSTRIP®). The order according to the best performance of the 3 real-time RT-PCR kits evaluated was: DisCoVery>GeneFinderTM>WGene. The 2 RNA extraction methods showed similar good results: MagaBio plus Virus RNA Purification Kit II (BioFlux) 9-min was selected due to its faster performance. FlashPrep® reagent showed excellent results to perform direct RNA detection. Isothermal amplification assays showed acceptable sensitivity and specificity values (>80%), except in samples with Ct>30. Our data show optimal real time RT-PCR kits and alternative molecular methods for SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic. These alternative assays proved to be acceptable for their use in adverse contexts, decentralization, and different epidemiological scenarios, for rapid and accurate SARS-CoV-2 detection.

Lack of evidence of viability and infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in the fecal specimens of COVID-19 patients

SARS-CoV-2 can be shed in feces and can enter sewage systems. In order to implement effective control measures and identify new channels of transmission, it is essential to identify the presence of infectious virus particles in feces and sewage. In this study, we attempt to utilize Molecular techniques, cell cultures and animal models to find out the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in the feces of COVID-19 patients. Our findings exclude the presence of infectious virus particles, suggesting that fecal-oral transmission may not be the main mode of transmission. Larger-scale initiatives are nevertheless required, particularly considering the emergence of new viral strains.

Comparative analysis of novel and common reference genes in adult tissues of the mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis

Background

Real-time quantitative PCR is a widely used method for gene expression analyses in various organisms. Its accuracy mainly relies on the correct selection of reference genes. Any experimental plan involving real-time PCR needs to evaluate the characteristics of the samples to be examined and the relative stability of reference genes. Most studies in mollusks rely on reference genes commonly used in vertebrates.

Results

In this study, we focused on the transcriptome of the bivalve mollusk Mytilus galloprovincialis in physiological state to identify suitable reference genes in several adult tissues. Candidate genes with highly stable expression across 51 RNA-seq datasets from multiple tissues were selected through genome-wide bioinformatics analysis. This approach led to the identification of three genes (Rpl14, Rpl32 and Rpl34), whose suitability was evaluated together with 7 other reference genes commonly reported in literature (Act, Cyp-A, Ef1α, Gapdh, 18S, 28S and Rps4). The stability analyses performed with geNorm, NormFinder and Bestkeeper identified specific either single or pairs of genes suitable as references for gene expression analyses in specific tissues and revealed the Act/Cyp-A pair as the most appropriate to analyze gene expression across different tissues.

Conclusion

Mytilus galloprovincialis is a model system increasingly used in ecotoxicology and molecular studies. Our transcriptome-wide approach represents the first comprehensive investigation aimed at the identification of suitable reference genes for expression studies in this species.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08553-1.

Differential effects of single fatty acids and fatty acid mixtures on the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt/eNOS pathway in endothelial cells

SCOPE

Dietary fat composition is an important modulator of vascular function. Non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) enriched in saturated fatty acids (SFA) are thought to reduce vascular reactivity by attenuating insulin signalling via vasodilator pathways (phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)) and enhancing signalling via pro-inflammatory pathways.

METHODS

To examine the effects of fatty acids on these pathways, human aortic endothelial cells were incubated with single fatty acids, and mixtures of these fatty acids to mimic typical NEFA composition and concentrations achieved in our previous human study. RNA was extracted to determine gene expression using real-time RT-PCR and cell lysates prepared to assess protein phosphorylation by Western blotting.

RESULTS

Oleic acid (OA, 100 µM) was shown to down regulate expression of the insulin receptor, PTEN and a PI3K catalytic (p110β) and regulatory (p85α) subunit compared to palmitic, linoleic and stearic acids (P < 0.04), and promote greater eNOS phosphorylation at Ser¹¹⁷⁷. Both concentration and composition of the SFA and SFA plus n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) mixtures had significant effects on genes involved in the PI3K/Akt pathway. Greater up-regulation was found with 800 than 400 µM concentration (respective of concentrations in insulin resistant and normal individuals), whereas greater down-regulation was evident with SFA plus n-3 PUFA than SFA mixture alone.

CONCLUSION

Our findings provide novel insights into the modulation of the PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway by single fatty acids and fatty acid mixtures. In particular, OA appears to promote signalling via this pathway, with further work required to determine the primary molecular site(s) of action.

Analytical and clinical performance of molecular assay used by the Brazilian public laboratory network to detect and discriminate Zika, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses in blood

In response to the Zika epidemics in Brazil, the ZDC molecular assay (Bio-Manguinhos) was developed and registered at the Brazilian Regulatory Agency of Health Surveillance - ANVISA. The circulation of Zika (ZIKV) Dengue (DENV) and Chikungunya (CHIKV) viruses and their clinical similarities are challenges to correctly diagnose these viruses. The simultaneous detection of ZIKV, DENV and CHIKV is an important tool for diagnosis and surveillance. Here, we present the analytical and clinical performance evaluation of ZDC molecular assay (Bio-Manguinhos) at the public health laboratories three years after its registration at ANVISA. The clinical performance demonstrates the ZDC molecular assay (Bio-Manguinhos) has 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity to detect and discriminate ZIKV, CHIKV, and DENV from clinical plasma samples. The ZDC molecular assay (Bio-Manguinhos) results were highly reproducible and no cross-reactivity was seen during testing with a panel of other infectious agents. In conclusion, the ZDC molecular assay (Bio-Manguinhos) is an accurate and reliable tool to monitor Zika, dengue and chikungunya infections in countries like Brazil with simultaneous circulation of the three viruses.

Identification of Newcastle disease virus subgenotype VII.2 in wild birds in Turkey

BACKGROUND

Newcastle disease viruses (NDVs) can spread across continents via migratory birds. Hence, we investigated the frequency of NDV in both non-migratory and birds migrating on the Black Sea-Mediterranean flyway, in Istanbul, Turkey. Birds were trapped using nets placed around the Kucukcekmece lake Avcilar, Istanbul, in spring seasons of 2016 and 2018. In total, 297 birds belonging to 42 different species were trapped, categorized according to species and sex, and flocked oropharyngeal swabs were collected. In addition, flocked swabs were also collected from 115 mallards caught by hunters around Edirne and from 207 birds which had been treated in the Veterinary Faculty of Istanbul university-Cerrahpasa. Tissue samples were taken from dead wild birds brought by public to Veterinary Faculty. A total of 619 flocked oropharyngeal swabs were pooled into 206 samples. RNA was extracted from swabs and tissue samples. Real-time RT-PCR prob. assay was used to detect NDV-RNA in samples.

RESULTS

There was no amplification in real time RT-PCR in samples taken from wild birds caught by traps. However, amplification of NDV-F gene was observed in oropharyngeal swabs taken from 2 waterfowls (Common Moorhen and Mallard), and in tissue samples taken from 2 little owls and 1 common kestrel. Sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of these 5 samples for NDV-F gene showed great similarity with NDV subgenotype VII.2 viruses. Analysis also showed that there is a high similarity with the F gene sequences previously reported from Turkey in 2012 and as well as the sequences from neighbouring countries Bulgaria and Georgia and geographically close country such as Pakistan. Although the strains found in this study are closely related, there is a relatively small degree of molecular divergence within 543 bp of F gene of the Turkish NDV isolate and strains detected in Israel, Pakistan, Iran, United Arab Emirates and Belgium.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings revealed the presence of subgenotype VII.2 of NDVs in wild birds in north west of Turkey and demonstrated some degree of molecular evolution when compared to the earlier NDV-VII.2 isolate in Turkey.

A novel pancreatic tumour and stellate cell 3D co-culture spheroid model

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma is a devastating disease with poor outcome, generally characterized by an excessive stroma component. The purpose of this study was to develop a simple and reproducible in vitro 3D-assay employing the main constituents of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, namely pancreatic stellate and cancer cells.

METHOD

A spheroid assay, directly co-culturing human pancreatic stellate cells with human pancreatic tumour cells in 3D was established and characterized by electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry and real-time RT-PCR. In order to facilitate the cell type-specific crosstalk analysis by real-time RT-PCR, we developed a novel in vitro 3D co-culture model, where the participating cell types were from different species, human and mouse, respectively. Using species-specific PCR primers, we were able to investigate the crosstalk between stromal and cancer cells without previous cell separation and sorting.

RESULTS

We found clear evidence for mutual influence, such as increased proliferation and a shift towards a more mesenchymal phenotype in cancer cells and an activation of pancreatic stellate cells towards the myofibroblast phenotype. Using a heterospecies approach, which we coined virtual sorting, confirmed the findings we made initially in the human-human spheroids.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed and characterized different easy to set up 3D models to investigate the crosstalk between cancer and stroma cells for pancreatic cancer.

First report of influenza D virus infection in Turkish cattle with respiratory disease

Bovine respiratory infections are the most economically important diseases affecting the cattle industry worldwide including Turkey. Influenza D virus (IDV) could play an important role to trigger bovine respiratory disease (BRD) complex. Since, there is no data about the presence and genotypes of IDV in Turkish cattle herds; this study was performed to investigate IDV in cattle in Turkey. Animals analyzed in this study were from commercial cattle farms having respiratory disease in calves with significant mortality. Nasal swabs and tissue samples from cattle in Marmara, Inner Anatolia and Aegean region of Turkey were analyzed by real-time RT-PCR assay to detect IDV. Among 76 samples form 12 cattle herds, IDV was detected in 3 cattle in a herd. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of partial hemagglutinin esterase fusion (HEF) gene showed that the Turkish strain is 95% identical to its European and US counterparts, which suggest intercontinental spread of the virus. These findings highlight the need for future continuous surveillance on larger scale to determine the distribution pattern and evolution of this novel emerging pathogen in Turkish cattle industry.

Development of a triplex real-time RT-PCR assay for detection and differentiation of three US genotypes of porcine hemagglutinating encephalomyelitis virus

Porcine hemagglutinating encephalomyelitis virus (PHEV) is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus. PHEV mainly causes two types of clinical manifestations representing vomiting and wasting and encephalomyelitis in piglets. However, our recent findings provide strong evidence that PHEV can also cause respiratory disease in older pigs. Genomic analysis of new PHEV strains identified in our former study further classifies PHEV into three genotypes. Detection and differentiation of these new mutants are critical in monitoring PHEV evolution in the field. In the present study, we report the development of a triplex real-time RT-PCR assay for detection and differentiation of three PHEV genotypes, 1, 2, and 3. Three sets of primers and probes were designed; one set of primers and probe targeting the conserved regions of the 3' end nucleocapsid for detection of all three genotypes and another two sets of primers and probes targeting the regions of NS2 with different patterns of deletions for detection of both genotypes 1 and 3, or genotype 3 only. Genotype 1 was positive when two probe dyes showed signals, genotype 2 was positive when only one probe dye showed a signal, and genotype 3 was positive when all three probes showed signals. The detection limit of the developed triplex real-time RT-PCR was as low as 8 or 9 DNA copies for three sets of primers and probes. The specificity test showed no cross reaction with other porcine viruses. Positive field-samples were correctly typed by this new assay, which was further confirmed by DNA sequencing. The triplex real-time RT-PCR provides a rapid and sensitive method to detect and differentiate all three US genotypes of PHEV from clinical samples.

Temperature sensitivity and environmental stability of Chandipura virus

Chandipura virus (CHPV), a negative-stranded RNA virus of family Rhabdoviridae is endemic in Central India since 1965. The virus gained public health importance when it was held responsible for massive outbreak in 2003-2004 in Maharashtra, Telengana and Gujarat with case fatality rates ranging from 55 to 75% among children. We studied the stability of the virus as well as RNA persistence in samples stored at different temperatures for different periods. CHPV remained infective in sand flies and cell culture supernatants at 4 °C for 8 weeks. At 37 °C CHPV remained viable for 18 days when stored in infected cell supernatant (Minimum essential medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum). However, in infected sand flies stored at 37 °C, the virus lost virulence within a week. CHPV RNA, though lost virulence, could be detected in virus exposed sand flies stored at 37 °C for 13 weeks by real time RT-PCR. Retaining virulence at 37 °C for 18 days in serum containing medium is a matter of concern for laboratories and hospital settings where clinical samples are handled. RNA persistence for prolonged periods in dead sand flies might help in surveillance studies of CHPV in sand flies and will help in resource constraint nations where cold chain management is a concern.

Development and evaluation of real-time RT-PCR using ear hair for specific detection of sheep persistently infected with border disease virus (BDV)

The aim of this study was to develop an improved border disease virus (BDV) specific real time RT-PCR and to evaluate its performance on manually plucked hairs from sheep persistently infected with BDV that may act as a non-invasive alternate sample. The BDV real time RT-PCR assay reported here showed a high analytical sensitivity (10^0.6 TCID50/ml), specificity (no reactivity with BVDV-1, BVDV-2, HoBi-like pestivirus and CSFV) and reproducibility. When the assay was validated on 210 samples from BDV-infected and uninfected sheep, it showed a 100% diagnostic sensitivity and specificity with virus isolation. Further evaluation of the assay on manually plucked hair follicles from ear (mid-lateral, mid-medial) and tail tip from sheep persistently infected with BDV showed that a minimum of 20 hair follicles need to be tested for correct diagnosis of BDV. The BDV load was comparatively higher in hairs from mid-medial ear than those from other tested locations. Evaluation on other samples from PI sheep demonstrated that the test performance was similar to that of pestivirus generic real-time RT-PCR, but improved than the currently available BDV specific real-time RT-PCR. Although more number of PI animals need to be evaluated, the results of the study showed that manually plucked hairs from mid-medial ear pinna is a suitable alternative sample in real-time RT-PCR for detection of BDV persistently infected sheep. Use of the non-invasive ear hair samples and the improved BDV specific real-time RT-PCR reported here may be useful for BDV surveillance in several sheep rearing countries.

Circulation of influenza in backyard productive systems in central Chile and evidence of spillover from wild birds

Backyard productive systems (BPS) are recognized as the most common form of animal production in the world. However, BPS frequently exhibit inherent biosecurity deficiencies, and could play a major role in the epidemiology of animal diseases and zoonoses. The aim of this study was to determine if influenza A viruses (IAV) were prevalent in backyard poultry and swine BPS in central Chile. Through active surveillance in Valparaiso and Metropolitan regions from 2012 - 2014, we found that influenza virus positivity by real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) ranged from 0% during winter 2012-45.8% during fall 2014 at the farm level. We also obtained an H12 hemagglutinin (HA) sequence of wild bird origin from a domestic Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata), indicating spillover from wild birds into backyard poultry populations. Furthermore, a one-year sampling effort in 113 BPS in the Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins (LGB ÓHiggins) region showed that 12.6% of poultry and 2.4% of swine were positive for IAV by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), indicative of previous exposure of farm animals to IAV. This study highlights the need for improved IAV surveillance in backyard populations given the close interaction between domestic animals, wild birds and people in these farms, particularly in an understudied region, like South America.

Laboratory findings in Zika infection: The experience of a reference centre in North-West Italy

BACKGROUND

Zika virus (ZIKV) remains a public health concern due to its association with fetal malformation and neurologic disease.

OBJECTIVE

To report a reference centre experience on ZIKA virus (ZIKV) infection in travelers from epidemic countries from January 1 to September, 30, 2016 in Italy North-West (a geographic area covering 4.424 million inhabitants, corresponding to almost 73% of Italy North-West area).

STUDY DESIGN

One hundred and twelve febrile travelers were studied to rule out a tropical fever [e.g. malaria, dengue (DENV), chikungunya (CHIKV), West Nile (WNV) and ZIKV]. Molecular tests for detecting ZIKV RNA were applied on serum or urine as well as IgG and IgM specific serology.

RESULTS

ZIKV was the most frequent "tropical infection (11.6%) with 12 infected travelers and one sexual partner of an infected traveler. At the time of the diagnosis, ZIKV RNA was detected in the blood from 9 patients (69%) within 7 days from symptom onset; afterwards, the virus was detected only in urine (5 patients) and ZIKV IgM was reactive in 9 patients (69%). Travelers with ZIKV infection tested negative for DENV, CHIKV, WNV and malaria and completely recovered. Other infections identified in travelers were DENV (5 patients, 4.5%), CHIKV (1, 0.9%), malaria (Plasmodium vivax, 1, 0.9%), measles (1, 0.9%) and tuberculosis (1, 0.9%).

CONCLUSIONS

The etiologic diagnosis of a febrile illness in travelers where ZIKV is endemic is highly desirable as they are sentinel of a challenging epidemiology including the risk of autochthonous transmission in non endemic countries where the competent or carrier vector is present.

Determination of reference genes that are independent of feeding rhythms for circadian studies of mouse metabolic tissues

Real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis is a popular method for the measurement of mRNA expression level and is a critical tool for basic research. The identification of suitable reference genes that are stable and not affected by experimental conditions is a critical step in the accurate normalization of RT-PCR. On the other hand, the levels of numerous transcripts exhibit circadian oscillation in various peripheral tissues and it is thought to be regulated by feeding rhythms in addition to the molecular circadian clock. Here, we investigated the effects of feeding schedule on the temporal expression profiles of 13 common housekeeping genes in metabolic tissues of mice fed during either the sleep or the active phase. The expression of most of these genes fluctuated dependently on feeding rhythms in the liver and WAT, but not in skeletal muscle. Two-way analyses of variance (ANOVA) identified 18S ribosomal RNA (Rn18s) as the only gene that was stably expressed throughout the day independently of feeding schedules in the liver and WAT, although RefFinder software showed that peptidylprolyl isomerase A (Ppia) was the most stably expressed housekeeping gene. Both ANOVA and RefFinder software determined that Actb was the preferred reference gene for skeletal muscle. Furthermore, NormFinder proposed that the optimal pairs of reference genes were beta-2 microglobulin (B2m)-Ppia in the liver, Ppia-TATA box binding protein (Tbp) in WAT, and tyrosine 3-monooxygenase/tryptophan 5-monooxygenase activation protein, zeta polypeptide (Ywhaz)-glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (Gapdh) in skeletal muscle, and that their stability value was better than that of a single stable gene. The appropriate reference gene pairs for normalizing genes of interest in mouse circadian studies are B2m-Ppia in the liver, Ppia-Tbp in WAT, and Ywhaz-Gapdh in skeletal muscle.

Primers and probe design and precision assessment of the real time RT-PCR assay in Coxsackievirus A10 and enterovirus detection

This data article contains data related to the research article entitled “Rapid detection of enterovirus and Coxsackievirus A10 by a TaqMan based duplex one-step real time RT-PCR assay” (Chen at al., 2017) [1]. Primers and probe sequence design are among the most critical factors in real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay optimization. Linearity, sensitivity, specificity and precision are the crucial criteria which are used to evaluate the performance of a new method. This data article report the primers and probe design and precision assessment of the new assay. VP1 gene of Coxsackievirus A10 (CV-A10) and 5′-NCR of different enterovirus (EV) serotypes were retrieved from GenBank database and aligned. The intra- and inter-assay variation were assessed using high, medium and low concentration of control plasmid DNA and viral RNA samples.

Evaluation of the impact of 16-dehydropregnenolone on the activity and expression of rat hepatic cytochrome P450 enzymes

16-dehydropregnenolone (DHP) is a promising novel antihyperlipidemic agent developed and patented by Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI), India. The purpose of the present study was to investigate whether DHP influences the activities and mRNA expression of hepatic drug-metabolizing cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2C11, CYP2D2, CYP2E1 and CYP3A1) in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. A cocktail suspension of CYP probe substrates which contained caffeine (CYP1A2), tolbutamide (CYP2C11), dextromethorphan (CYP2D2), chlorzoxazone (CYP2E1) and dapsone (CYP3A1) was administered orally on eighth- or fifteenth-day to rats pre-treated with DHP intragastrically at a dose of 36 and 72mg/kg for one week and two weeks. The concentrations of probe drugs in plasma were estimated by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Alongside, the effect of DHP on CYPs activity and mRNA expression levels were assayed in isolated rat liver microsomes and by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively. DHP had significant inducing effects on CYP1A2, 2C11, 2D2 and 2E1 with no effect on CYP3A1 in dose- and time-dependent manner, as revealed from the pharmacokinetic profiles of the probe drugs in rats. In-vitro microsomal activities and mRNA expression results were in good agreement with the in-vivo pharmacokinetic results. Collectively, the results unveiled that DHP is an inducer of rat hepatic CYP enzymes. Hence, intense attention should be paid when DHP is co-administered with drugs metabolized by CYP1A2, 2C11, 2D2 and 2E1, which might result in drug-drug interactions and therapeutic failure.

Distribution and Trends of Human Parainfluenza Viruses in Hospitalised Children

OBJECTIVE

To study the distribution of Human Parainfluenza viruses (HPIV) 1-4 and their trends in children ≤5 y of age, hospitalised at a tertiary care centre, Jaipur and co-infection with other respiratory viruses.

METHODS

Nasopharyngeal aspirate and throat swabs were collected and processed for extraction of nucleic acid using automated extraction system and real time RT-PCR was performed using primers and probes specific to HPIV 1-4 and other respiratory viruses on 743 samples.

RESULTS

Total positivity for Parainfluenza viruses 1-4 was found to be 69/743 (9.28 %), of which 50/533 (9.38 %) were boys and 19/210 (9.05 %) girls. Predominance of HPIV- 3 was observed [41/743 (5.52%)] followed by HPIV-1 in 13/743 (1.75%), HPIV-4 in 10/743 (1.34%) and HPIV-2 in 5/743 (0.67%) patients. Maximum positivity was observed in age group 25-36 mo (12.98%) followed by 13-24 mo group (11.96%). HPIVs were found to be circulating round the year and each year. Co-infections with other respiratory viruses were observed in 22/69 (31.88%) of HPIV positive patients.

CONCLUSIONS

All the four types of HPIV were found to be circulating in the index population during all the three years, predominantly during post monsoon and winter seasons. HPIV vaccination should be targeted for all types.

Cytokine gene expression in aborting and non-aborting dams and in their foetuses after experimental infection with Neospora caninum at 110 days of gestation

Neospora caninum is a major cause of abortion in cattle. However, it is not known why not all infected animals abort. In this study, Th1 (IFN-γ), Th2 (IL4) and T reg (IL-10) cytokine gene expression was examined by real time PCR using the TaqMan approach in all of these dams and their foetuses after experimental infection with the isolate Nc-Spain7 at 110 days of pregnancy and euthanasia 6 weeks after infection. In prior published work, foetal death was observed in three of six infected dams and transplacental infection in all the 6 infected foetuses. In the spleen of the dams, IL-4 expression was down-regulated in dams with aborted/non viable foetuses compared to both uninfected dams (controls, n=3) and infected dams with live fetuses at euthanasia. In the lymph nodes draining the placenta, up-regulated expression of IL-4 was observed in infected dams with live foetuses compared to control dams. In the placenta, infected dams with live foetuses had significantly up-regulated IFN-γ in both caruncle and cotyledon and up-regulated IL-10 in cotyledon compared to control dams. Infected live foetuses showed up-regulated expression of IFN-γ and IL-10 in foetal spleen, and showed downregulated expression of IL-4 in the thymus compared to control uninfected foetuses. Expression of any cytokine in the thymus was significantly lower compared to the levels observed in foetal spleen. The results indicate an up-regulated expression of Th1, Th2 and Treg in infected dams with live foetuses and in their foetuses. On the other hand, down-regulation of Th2 immune responses and Treg cytokines were observed in infected dams which had aborted or had non-viable foetuses at euthanasia, suggesting an immunological recovery of cytokine gene expression levels in dams a few weeks after an abortion occurred.

Comparison of SYBR green I real-time RT-PCR with conventional agarose gel-based RT-PCR for the diagnosis of infectious bronchitis virus infection in chickens in Morocco

BACKGROUND

A rapid, sensitive, and specific molecular method for the diagnosis of infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) infection is important in curbing infectious bronchitis outbreaks in Morocco and other countries.

METHODS

In this study, an easy-to-perform SYBR green I real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) targeting the nucleocapsid gene of IBV was developed and compared with conventional agarose gel-based RT-PCR for the detection of IBV infection.

RESULTS

We found that the SYBR green I real-time RT-PCR was at least 10 times more sensitive than the agarose gel electrophoresis detection method. The assay exhibited high specificity for IBV infection. All negative controls, such as Newcastle disease virus, infectious bursal disease virus, and avian influenza virus, were not detected.

CONCLUSION

The SYBR green I real-time RT-PCR test described herein can be used to rapidly distinguish IBV from other respiratory pathogens, which is important for diagnosis and control of infectious bronchitis outbreaks in Morocco. The test is a valuable and useful method as a routine assay for diagnosis of clinical IBV infection in commercial chickens.

Development of a SYBR green I-based quantitative RT-PCR for Ross River virus: Application in vector competence studies and antiviral drug evaluation

Ross River virus (RRV) is an emerging Alphavirus and is presently endemic in many parts of Oceania. Keeping in mind its emergence, we developed a molecular detection system and utilized it to study vector competence and evaluate activity of antiviral compounds against RRV. A SYBR Green I-based quantitative RT-PCR for detection of RRV was developed targeting the E2 gene, with a detection limit of 100 RNA copies/reaction. The specificity was confirmed with closely related Alphaviruses and Flaviviruses. The assay was applied to study the vector competence of Indian Aedes aegypti for RRV, which revealed 100% infection and dissemination rate with 75% transmission rate. Viral RNA was found in saliva as early as 3day post infection (dpi). Further application of the assay in antiviral drug evaluation revealed the superior in vitro activity of ribavirin compared to chloroquine in Vero cells. Successful demonstration of this assay to detect RRV in low titre mosquito samples makes it a sensitive tool in vector surveillance. This study also showed that Indian Ae. aegypti are well competent to transmit RRV highlighting the risk of its introduction to naïve territories across continents. Further validation of this assay, revealed its utility in screening of potential antivirals against RRV.

Detection of West Nile and Usutu Viruses in Italian Free Areas: Entomological Surveillance in Piemonte and Liguria Regions, 2014

West Nile virus and Usutu virus have established in different parts of Italy over the past 10 years. Piemonte and Liguria Regions (Northwestern Italy) are known to be nonendemic areas, despite the presence of competent vectors and environmental conditions conducive to maintaining infection. This work evidences for the first time, through an entomological surveillance implemented on the basis of risk factor approach, the presence of West Nile and Usutu viruses in Piemonte and Liguria Regions (Northwestern Italy).

External quality assessment for the molecular detection of MERS-CoV in China

BACKGROUND

In May 2015, an imported case of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection occurred in China, so rapid and reliable diagnosis of suspected cases was necessary.

OBJECTIVES

An external quality assessment (EQA) program for the molecular detection of MERS-CoV was organized by the National Center for Clinical Laboratories (NCCL).

STUDY DESIGN

MS2 virus-like particles (VLPs) encapsulating specific RNA sequences of MERS-CoV were prepared as positive specimens. The assessment panel, which comprised of three negative and seven positive samples with different concentrations of VLPs, was distributed to 56 laboratories from 16 provinces, municipalities, or autonomous regions for molecular detection.

RESULTS

Among the received data sets, three employed an in-house-developed real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) assay and the others applied various commercial rRT-PCR kits. Overall, the majority of laboratories (46/56, 82.1%) could achieve 100% accuracy for MERS-CoV detection, but three laboratories (5.4%) still had room for improvement. Consequently, all negative samples were identified correctly, reaching 100% specificity. The false-negative rate was 3.1%, and most of the false-negative results were obtained from samples with relatively low concentration, indicating an urgent need to improve detection in weak-positive specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of participants possessed reliable diagnostic capacity for the detection of MERS-CoV. Moreover, EQA is indispensable because it can help enhance the diagnostic capability for the surveillance of MERS-CoV infections and allow comparison of the results among different laboratories.

Multiplex real-time RT-PCR for the simultaneous detection and quantification of GI, GII and GIV noroviruses

Noroviruses are important causes of acute gastroenteritis and are classified into six genogroups with GI, GII and GIV containing human pathogens. This high genetic diversity represents a significant challenge for diagnostic assay development. Genogroup specific monoplex and multiplex real time RT-PCR assays are widely used for the detection of GI and GII noroviruses. On the other hand, GIV norovirus detection is not part of routine laboratory diagnosis. This study describes the development and evaluation of a one tube, real time RT-PCR assay for the simultaneous detection and quantification of GI, GII and GIV noroviruses, including both GIV.1 (human) and GIV.2 (animal) strains. Assay performance was evaluated on a panel of norovirus positive clinical samples by comparison of monoplex and multiplex standard curves and Ct values. The multiplex assay demonstrated equal sensitivity and specificity to the monoplex assays and was able to detect all GI, GII and GIV noroviruses with Ct values equal to that of the monoplex assays. The multiplex assay described in this study will be instrumental for the better understanding of GIV norovirus epidemiology, including their possible zoonotic nature.

Improved adipogenic in vitro differentiation: comparison of different adipogenic cell culture media on human fat and bone stroma cells for fat tissue engineering

To date there is no sufficient in vitro fat tissue engineering and a protocol has not been well established for this purpose. Therefore, we evaluated the in vitro influence of two different adipogenic growth media for their stimulation potential on different cell lineages to clearly define the most potent adipogenic growth media for future in vitro tissue engineering approaches. The samples for differentiation were composed of human adipogenic-derived stroma cells (hADSCs) and human bone marrow mesenchymal stroma cells (hMSCs). A normal adipogenic medium (NAM) and a specific adipogenic medium (SAM) were tested for their adipogenic stimulation potential. After 10 days and 21 days the relative gene expression was measured for the adipogenic marker genes PPARγ2, C/EBPα, FABP4, LPL, and GLUT4 detected through real time reverse transcriptase polymease chain reaction (RT-PCR). Other study variables were the comparison between NAM and SAM and between the used cells hADSCs and hMSCs. Additionally an Oil-Red staining was performed after 21 days. Our results revealed that only SAM was significantly (P<0.05) superior in the differentiation process in contrast to NAM for 10 days and 21 days. As well was SAM superior to differentiate the used cell lineages. This was evaluated by the detected marker genes PPARγ2, C/EBPα, FABP4, LPL, and GLUT4 through real time RT-PCR and by Oil-Red staining. In addition, the hMSCs proofed to be equal donor cells for adipogenic differentiation especially when stimulated by SAM. The results suggest that the SAM should be established as a new standard medium for a more promising in vitro adipogenic differentiation.

A novel duplex real time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction for rubella virus with armored RNA as a noncompetitive internal positive control

The objective of this study was to build and apply a duplex real time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for rubella virus. Firstly, a 60-bp-long armored RV RNA was constructed in the laboratory. Secondly, a duplex real time RT-PCR assay was established. Thirdly, the 60-bp-long armored RV RNA was used as an internal positive control (IPC) for the duplex real time RT-PCR. And finally the duplex real time RT-PCR assay was applied to detect RV RNA in clinical specimens. The in-house assay has a high amplification efficiency (0.99), a high analytical sensitivity (200 copies/mL), and a good reproducibility. The diagnostic specificity and sensitivity of the in-house assay were both 100%, due to the monitoring of the armored RV RNA IPC. Therefore, the in-house duplex real time quantitative RT-PCR assay is a specific, sensitive, reproducible and accurate assay for quantitation of RV RNA in clinical specimens. And noncompetitive armored RV RNA IPC can monitor RT-PCR inhibition and prevent false-negative and inaccurate results in the real time detection system.

The mRNA expressions and immunohistochemistry of factors involved in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in the early stage of rat skin incision wounds

Wound healing evaluation is important in forensic pathology, in which angiogenesis plays an important role. We have already shown that vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF) is produced in the rat skin incision wounds by neutrophils, endothelial cells, and fibroblasts. In this study, we assessed the changes in the mRNA expressions of various factors possibly involved in angiogenesis including angiopoietin (ANGPT) 1 and 2, cadherin 5 (CDH5), granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (CSF2/GM-CSF), granulocyte colony stimulating factor (CSF3/G-CSF), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2 (CXCL2), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand12 (CXCL12/SDF1), endothelin 1 (ET1), fibroblast growth factor 1 (FGF 1), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), hypoxia inducible factor 1 alpha (HIF1a), leptin, matrix metallopepitidase 9 (MMP9), serpine/plasminogen activator inhibitor1 (PAI1), platelet-derived growth factor-A (PDGF-A), transforming growth factor alpha and beta 1 (TGFa and b1), tenomodulin (TNMD), and troponin I type 2 (TNNI2) in the early stage of the rat skin incision wounds by real time RT-PCR. Factors reported to be involved in lymphangiogenesis such as fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF 2), c-fos induced growth factor (FIGF/VEGF-D), forkhead box C2 (FOXC2), and prospero homeobox 1 (PROX1) were also studied. One and 3 days after the dorsal skin incisions, wounds on male Sprague-Dawley rats showed the statistically significant increases in the mRNA expressions for CXCL2, CSF3, MMP9, PAI1, and CSF2, whereas TGFa, TNNI2, FGF1, TNMD, leptin, and CXCL12 showed the statistically significant decreases. Interestingly, lymphgangiogenic factors FOXC2, PROX1, and FGF2 also showed the statistically significant decreases. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry showed the mRNA and protein positivity in endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and some leukocytes at the bottom of the wound tissue for PAI1, CSF3, and MMP9, 1 day after the skin incisions. Our novel findings show the possible involvement of several factors involved in angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in the early stage of wound healing process, which may be useful for forensic wound evaluations.

Preliminary study on expression of antimicrobial peptides in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) following in vivo infection with Vibrio anguillarum. A time course experiment

Antimicrobial polypeptides (AMPPs) are humoral components of the vertebrates and invertebrates innate immune system. Their potent broad spectrum antimicrobial activities have drawn the attention of the scientific community to their potential use not only as an alternative to antibiotics but also as functional targets for immunostimulants in order to enhance the host immunity. Fish synthesize a great number of these peptides but in European sea bass, an important fish species in the Mediterranean aquaculture, only a few AMPPs have been studied and these surveys have highlighted their functional role as predictive markers of stressful conditions. Many aspects concerning AMPP mode of action in the host during bacterial infections are still unknown. In this work a 72 h time course experiment, performed on juvenile sea bass intraperitoneally (i.p.) injected with a sub-lethal dose of Vibrio anguillarum, was aimed to investigate the mRNA expression of four specific AMPP genes and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) in skin, gills, spleen, and head kidney. AMPP genes were: dicentracin (DIC), histone-like protein 1 (HLP-1), histone-like protein 2 (HLP-2) and hemoglobin-like protein (Hb-LP). The delta-delta C(T) method in real-time RT-PCR allowed to gain more knowledge about temporal dynamics, preferential sites of expression as well as immunological and physiological role of these molecular markers. DIC was significantly up-regulated mainly in head kidney at 1.5-3 h post-infection (p.i.). HLP-1 showed an extended-time overexpression in gills and a significant up-regulation in spleen. HLP-2 was interestingly overexpressed in gills at 24 h p.i., while Hb-LP showed a significant up-regulation in skin for all the 72 h trial as well as lower but always significant values either in gills or in spleen. Different was the response of IL-1β that showed a dramatic up-regulation in spleen and head kidney at 8 h p.i. whilst in gills it displayed a severe inhibition. During this survey the i.p. stimulus surely conditioned the AMPP expression in skin and gills, especially as regards the DIC that as piscidin-related gene has an important defensive role in the mucosal tissues. However, two unconventional AMPP genes such as HLP-2 and Hb-LP, strictly related to the physiological mechanisms of fish, were less affected in terms of expression by the route of infection, being more evident in peripheral loci. These findings might suggest them as potential markers to be analyzed within plans of health survey in fish farms.

Virological and serological findings in dogs with naturally occurring distemper

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The collection of suitable samples are crucial for Canine Distemper (CD) diagnosis.

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Urine proved to be the most suitable sample for CD diagnosis.

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The global epidemiology of CD reinforces the importance of an accurate diagnostic.

Canine distemper virus (CDV) is the cause of a severe and highly contagious disease in dogs. The unpredictable and variable course of CDV-related disease may hamper correct diagnosis of infection and makes it crucial the collection of samples suitable for laboratory confirmation. In the present study we were able to follow the disease in two dogs infected naturally, collecting different biological matrices during the entire period of infection. By real time RT-PCR, viral RNA was detected and quantified, suggesting that urine and rectal swabs would be useful for ante-mortem diagnosis of distemper in dogs, regardless of the clinical stage and form of the illness.

[Validation of a real time RT-PCR assay to detect foot-and-mouth disease virus and assessment of its performance in acute infection]

A specific real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCRrt) for the detection of foot-and-mouth disease virus was validated using the LightCycler thermocycler 2.0 and its reagents as recommended by the World Organization for Animal Health and was assessed for the detection of the virus in acute infection of cattle experimentally vaccinated and challenged with virus A Argentina/2001 or A24 Cruzeiro. The technique proved to be robust, showing coefficients of variation lower than 4% for different ARN extractions, days or repetitions and was able to detect up to 0,4 TCID 50%, and/or up to 100 RNA molecules. In probang samples, diagnostic sensitivity was 93.1 (95% CI 86.5-96.6) and diagnostic specificity 100 (95% CI 96.3-100). The results of the challenge in vaccinated or multivaccinated bovines showed that although there were high levels of clinical protection in the vaccinated group, FMDV could be detected in all challenged groups. However, detection was 100 times lower in immunized animals.

TaqMan real time RT-PCR assays for detecting ferret innate and adaptive immune responses

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The ferret model is used to study human disease and physiology.

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TaqMan realtime RT-PCR assays for ferret cytokine and chemokine mRNA were developed.

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Cytokine and chemokine patterns in ferret cells were similar to other mammals.

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A comprehensive panel of mRNAs can be measured in samples of limited quantity.

The ferret is an excellent model for many human infectious diseases including influenza, SARS-CoV, henipavirus and pneumococcal infections. The ferret is also used to study cystic fibrosis and various cancers, as well as reproductive biology and physiology. However, the range of reagents available to measure the ferret immune response is very limited. To address this deficiency, high-throughput real time RT-PCR TaqMan assays were developed to measure the expression of fifteen immune mediators associated with the innate and adaptive immune responses (IFNα, IFNβ, IFNγ, IL1α, IL1β, IL2, IL4, IL6, IL8, IL10, IL12p40, IL17, Granzyme A, MCP1, TNFα), as well as four endogenous housekeeping genes (ATF4, HPRT, GAPDH, L32). These assays have been optimized to maximize reaction efficiency, reduce the amount of sample required (down to 1 ng RNA per real time RT-PCR reaction) and to select the most appropriate housekeeping genes. Using these assays, the expression of each of the tested genes could be detected in ferret lymph node cells stimulated with mitogens or infected with influenza virus in vitro. These new tools will allow a more comprehensive analysis of the ferret immune responses following infection or in other disease states.

Development of a real time polymerase chain reaction assay for equine encephalosis virus

Equine encephalosis virus (EEV) is the cause of equine encephalosis. The disease is similar to mild forms of African horse sickness (AHS) and the two diseases are easily confused. Laboratory identification and serotyping of EEV is based on viral isolation in BHK-21 cells and a viral plaque inhibition neutralisation test. These procedures are time-consuming and therefore a more rapid diagnostic assay for EEV that can distinguish EEV from African horse sickness virus (AHSV) infections was developed. The S7 (VP7) gene from 38 EEV isolates representing all seven serotypes was amplified and sequenced. A conserved region at the 5' end of the gene was identified and used to design group-specific EEV primers and a TaqMan(®) MGB™ hydrolysis probe. The efficiency of the EEV real-time RT-PCR assay was 81%. The assay was specific, as it did not detect any of the nine serotypes of AHSV, nor 24 serotypes of bluetongue virus (BTV) and sensitive, with a 95% limit of detection of 10(2.9) TCID50/ml blood (95% confidence interval: 10(2.7) to 10(3.3)). The real-time format was selected because of its convenience, sensitivity and ability to produce results rapidly.

Susceptibility of tick cell lines to infection with Alkhumra haemorrhagic fever virus

BACKGROUND

Although Alkhumra haemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV) has been isolated from ticks, epidemiological data suggest that it is transmitted from livestock to humans by direct contact with animals or by mosquito bites, but not by ticks. This study was carried out to assess the ability of the virus to replicate in tick cells in vitro.

METHODS

AHFV was inoculated into cell lines derived from the hard ticks Hyalomma anatolicum (HAE/CTVM9) and Rhipicephalus appendiculatus (RAE/CTVM1) and the soft tick Ornithodoros moubata (OME/CTVM24). Inoculated cells were directly examined every week for 4 weeks by real-time reverse transcription PCR and by IFAT using polyclonal antibodies.

RESULTS

AHFV RNA was detected in all three inoculated tick cell lines throughout the 4-week observation period at levels up to almost twice that of the inoculum, but none of them exhibited a cytopathic effect. AHFV antigen could be detected in all three cell lines by IFAT. Titration of tick cell culture suspension in LLC-MK2 cells yielded AHFV titres of 10(6.6) 50% tissue culture infective dose (TCID50)/ml for OME/CTVM24 and 10(5.5) TCID50/ml for RAE/CTVM1 cells after 4 weeks of culturing; no viable virus was detected in HAE/CTVM9 cells.

CONCLUSION

This is the first description of propagation of AHFV in tick cells.

Application of real time RT-PCR for the genetic homogeneity and stability tests of the seed candidates for live attenuated influenza vaccine production

Development and improvement of quality control tests for live attenuated vaccines are a high priority because of safety concerns. Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) viruses are 6:2 reassortants containing the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) gene segments from circulating influenza viruses to induce protective immune responses, and the six internal gene segments from a cold-adapted Master Donor Virus (MDV). LAIV candidate viruses for the 2012-2013 seasons, A/Victoria/361/2011-CDC-LV1 (LV1) and B/Texas/06/2011-CDC-LV2B (LV2B), were created by classical reassortment of A/Victoria/361/2011 and MDV-A A/Leningrad/134/17/57 (H2N2) or B/Texas/06/2011 and MDV-B B/USSR/60/69. In an attempt to provide better identity and stability testing for quality control of LV1 and LV2B, sensitive real-time RT-PCR assays (rRT-PCR) were developed to detect the presence of undesired gene segments (HA and NA from MDV and the six internal genes from the seasonal influenza viruses). The sensitivity of rRT-PCR assays designed for each gene segment ranged from 0.08 to 0.8EID50 (50% of Egg Infectious Dose) per reaction for the detection of undesired genes in LV1 and from 0.1 to 1EID50 per reaction for the detection of undesired genes in LV2B. No undesired genes were detected either before or after five passages of LV1 or LV2B in eggs. The complete genome sequencing of LV1 and LV2B confirmed the results of rRT-PCR, demonstrating the utility of the new rRT-PCR assays to provide the evidence for the homogeneity of the prepared vaccine candidate.

Validation and clinical use of a sensitive HIV-2 viral load assay that uses a whole virus internal control

BACKGROUND

Human immunodeficiency virus type 2 (HIV-2) is distantly related to the more widespread HIV-1. Although HIV-2 infection is rare in the U.S., cases are concentrated in the Northeast. No FDA-approved HIV-2 viral load assays exist. A clinically validated laboratory-developed assay is currently available in the U.S., however it is not currently approved for use on New York State patients.

OBJECTIVE

To develop a sensitive viral load assay to quantify HIV-2 RNA in plasma and to validate it for clinical use.

METHODS

The real-time RT-PCR assay simultaneously amplifies HIV-2 and a whole virus internal control, added during the lysis step. Two extraction volumes can be used. Results are reported in HIV-2 RNA International Units (IU).

RESULTS

The assay has a limit of detection of 7 IU/mL and a lower limit of quantification of 29 IU/mL. The assay detects multiple strains of HIV-2 group A and B and generates reproducible results. Samples exchanged with a comparator laboratory produced similar viral load results, with 74% of positives differing by <0.5 log10 IU/mL. To date, we have tested 52 clinical specimens from 25 individuals. Twenty-eight (54%) specimens had measurable HIV-2 viral loads (range: 1.63-5.14 log10 IU/mL), 10 (19%) were positive but not quantifiable, and 14 were negative. HIV-2 RNA was detected in at least one specimen from 19 of 25 (76%) individuals tested.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a sensitive and accurate HIV-2 viral load assay. Validation data indicate the assay is suitable for clinical use and its availability in New York State will improve clinical monitoring of HIV-2 infected patients.

Influenza virus A(H3N2) strain isolated from cerebrospinal fluid from a patient presenting myelopathy post infectious

BACKGROUND

Neurological involvement during influenza infection has been described during epidemics and is often consistent with serious sequelae or death.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the etiologic agent involved in myelopathy post influenza-like syndrome.

STUDY DESIGN

This investigation focuses on virus isolation from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected from a 19-year-old male student presenting with clinical diagnosis of myelopathy post influenza-like syndrome. To achieve this goal, different cell cultures and molecular methodologies were carried out.

RESULTS

Influenza virus A(H3N2) strain was isolated in MDCK cell culture; virus particles were observed under electron microscopy. Phylogenetics analyses showed that the Brazilian influenza A(H3N2) strains were closely related to the A/Perth/16/2009-like.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates that influenza virus A(H3N2) strain was the cause of illness of the students. According to the Brazilian influenza virus sentinel surveillance data A/Perth/16/2009-LIKE (H3N2) strain has predominated during the 2010 influenza virus season in Brasília-DF.

SMYD3 expression differences in hepatoma cell lines with different HBV expression levels

AIM: To evaluate correlation between histone methyltransferase SMYD3 expression in hepatoma and HBV infection.

METHODS: SMYD3 mRNA expressions and SMYD3 protein expression levels in HBV-negative HepG2 and HBV-positive hepatoma cell line HepG2.2.15 were determined using real time PCR and Western blot, respectively.

RESULTS: SMYD3 mRNA and protein levels were significantly higher in HepG2.2.15 than those in HepG2 (0.92 ± 0.12 vs 0.18 ± 0.05, 0.28 ± 0.03 vs 0.54 ± 0.05, both P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION: HBV may promote hepatoma cell malignancy through its SMYD3 up-regulating pathways.

Overexpression of connective tissue growth factor WISP-1 in Chinese primary rectal cancer patients

AIM: To clarify the expression change of Wnt-induced secreted protein-1 (WISP-1) in human rectal cancer and to determine whether it is correlated with invasion and metastasis of human rectal cancer.

METHODS: Eighty-six paired samples of rectal cancer and surgically resected distant normal rectal tissue were collected and allocated into cancer group and control group respectively. WISP-1 mRNA was detected by relative quantitative real-time RT-PCR and WISP-1 protein was examined by immunohistochemical staining.

RESULTS: WISP-1 gene overexpression was found in 65% (56/86) primary rectal cancers, 2-30 times that of the level in normal matched rectal tissues (P = 0.001). The mRNA expression level was correlated with Duke’s staging, histological differentiation grade and lymph node status. The WISP-1 protein expression was in accordance with mRNA expression level. The positive degree of immunohistochemical staining in the cancer group (1.40 ± 0.35) was different from that in control group (1.04 ± 0.08, P < 0.001). Moreover, in cancer group the positive staining degree in high-level mRNA cancers (1.46 ± 0.37, n = 56) was higher than that in low-level mRNA (1.28 ± 0.28, n = 30, P = 0.018).

CONCLUSION: Aberrant levels of WISP-1 expression may play a role in rectal tumorigenesis. WISP-1 may be used as a specific clinical diagnosis and prognosis marker in rectal cancer.