Advancing CEA quantification: Designing a sensitive electrochemical immunosenor using MWCNT/Ni(OH)2 nanocomposite

An ultra-sensitive immunosensor was designed for the accurate determination of Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA). To enhance the performance of immunosensor, an MWCNT/Ni(OH)2 nanocomposite was utilized as the electrochemical interface and modifier of the electrode surface. The simple preparation procedures for MWCNT/Ni(OH)2 composite were provided. Its characteristics and properties were investigated by HRTEM, FESEM, XRD, and FTIR techniques. Leveraging the unique electrochemical characteristics shown by the MWCNT/Ni(OH)2 nanocomposite and its correlation with CEA, high accuracy in CEA detection was achieved. Experimental findings provide evidence that the proposed immunosensor has the ability to detect CEA in laboratory samples. This research contributes towards achieving precise and rapid CEA detection in cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Across a wide concentration range of CEA, the designed immunosensor demonstrated a linear response from 0.0001 ng/mL to 2 ng/mL, and its limit of detection (LOD) was just 0.076 pg/mL. To evaluate the practical applicability of the electrochemical immunosensor, blood serum samples were examined, revealing the immunosensor's remarkable specificity and longevity. Its high accuracy and stability make it a valuable tool in clinical settings and biomedical research, paving the way for improved cancer management and patient outcomes.

Cerium oxide nanoparticles as a new neuroprotective agent to promote functional recovery in a rat model of sciatic nerve crush injury

BACKGROUND

Peripheral nerve injury is a common clinical disorder. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of cerium oxide nanoparticles on axonal regeneration and functional recovery of the sciatic nerve after a crush injury in the rat model.

METHOD

A total of 40 adult male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. The animals underwent deep anesthesia. Afterward, the right sciatic nerve of rats was exposed and crushed. In two experimental groups, rats were treated intraperitoneally with cerium oxide nanoparticles at the dosage of 20 or 80 mg/kg daily for 1 week. The control group was given a vehicle. Then, during the nerve regeneration motor and sensory function recovery tests, histomorphometric evaluations, histological assessment of gastrocnemius muscle, and gastrocnemius muscle wet weights tests were performed.

RESULTS

Results demonstrated that the rate of nerve regeneration increased with the administration of cerium oxide nanoparticle in high doses. Also, the morphometric analysis showed that the number of myelinated fibers and myelin sheath thicknesses was significantly greater in the cerium oxide nanoparticle group versus the control group. Other parameters also improved in the cerium oxide nanoparticle treatment groups compared with the control group.

CONCLUSION

These data indicate that this nanoparticle has therapeutic potential and can be considered as a new treatment for nervous system regeneration.

The Arg/Arg genotype of leptin receptor gene Gln223Arg polymorphism may be an independent risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Given that obesity and insulin resistance play key roles in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and the connection between leptin and these metabolic diseases, the association between NAFLD and a leptin receptor gene (LEPR) polymorphism was examined.

METHODS

In this genetic case-control association study, 144 biopsy-proven NAFLD patients and 144 controls were genotyped for the LEPR gene Gln223Arg (rs1137101) polymorphism using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

RESULTS

The distributions of genotypes and alleles of Gln223Arg variant were in accordance with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the study groups (P > .05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the LEPR Gln223Arg Arg/Arg genotype was an independent risk factor for NAFLD; the Arg/Arg genotype, compared with the Gln/Gln genotype, was associated with a 2.09-fold increased risk for NAFLD (P = .036, odds ratio = 2.09 [95% CI = 1.31-5.95]).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that the LEPR Gln223Arg Arg/Arg genotype was independently associated with a more than 2-fold rise in biopsy-proven NAFLD risk. Our findings, however, need to be corroborated by further studies.

Acellular carotid scaffold and evaluation the biological and biomechanical properties for tissue engineering

Introduction

The issues associated with the limitation of appropriate autologous vessels for vascular reconstruction via bypass surgery highlight the need for new alternative strategies based on tissue engineering. The present study aimed to prepare decellularized scaffolds from ovine carotid using chemical decellularization method.

Methods

Ovine carotid were decellularized with Triton X-100 and tri-n-butyl phosphate (TnBP) at 37 °C. Histological analysis, biochemical tests, biomechanical assay and biocompatibility assay were used to investigate the efficacy of decellularization.

Results

Decellularization method could successfully decellularize ovine carotid without leaving any cell remnants. Scaffolds showed minimal destruction of the three-dimensional structure and extracellular matrix, as well as adequate mechanical resistance and biocompatibility for cell growth and proliferation.

Conclusion

Prepared acellular scaffold exhibited the necessary characteristics for clinical applications.

Insulin receptor substrate 2 gene Gly1057Asp polymorphism is a risk factor for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

OBJECTIVE

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is an emerging global chronic liver disease, has a close association with insulin resistance. We aimed to determine whether the Gly1057Asp (rs1805097) polymorphism of the insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS2) gene is associated with NAFLD.

METHODS

Using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method, 135 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 135 controls underwent IRS2 genotype analysis.

RESULTS

Genotype and allele distributions of the IRS2 gene Gly1057Asp variant conformed to the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in both the case and control groups (P > .05). The Asp/Asp genotype of IRS2 gene Gly1057Asp polymorphism compared with Gly/Gly genotype was associated with a 2.1-fold increased risk for NAFLD after adjustment for confounding factors (P = .029; odds ratio = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.23-3.97).

CONCLUSION

Our findings revealed for the first time that the Gly1057Asp Asp/Asp genotype of the IRS2 gene is a marker of increased NAFLD susceptibility; however, studies in other populations are required to confirm the results.

Characterization and biocompatibility evaluation of acellular rat skin scaffolds for skin tissue engineering applications

Utilization of acellular scaffolds, extracellular matrix (ECM) without cell content, is growing in tissue engineering, due to their high biocompatibility, bioactivity ad mechanical support. Hence, the purpose of this research was to study the characteristics and biocompatibility of decellularized rat skin scaffolds using the osmotic shock method. First, the skin of male Wistar rats was harvested and cut into 1 × 1 cm2 pieces. Then, some of the harvested parts were subjected to the decellularization process by applying osmotic shock. Comparison of control and scaffold samples was conducted in order to assure cell elimination and ECM conservation by means of histological evaluations, quantification of biochemical factors, measurement of DNA amount, and photographing the ultrastructure of the samples by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In order to evaluate stem cell viability and adhesion to the scaffold, adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) were seeded on the acellular scaffolds. Subsequently, MTT test and SEM imaging of the scaffolds containing cultured cells were applied. The findings indicated that in the decellularized scaffolds prepared by osmotic shock method, not only the cell content was removed, but also the ECM components and its ultrastructure were preserved. Also, the 99% viability and adhesion of AD-MSCs cultured on the scaffolds indicate the biocompatibility of the decellularized skin scaffold. In conclusion, decellularized rat skin scaffolds are biocompatible and appropriate scaffolds for future investigations of tissue engineering applications.

Decellularized tracheal scaffold as a promising 3D scaffold for tissue engineering applications

Tissue engineering is a science that uses the combination of scaffolds, cells, and active biomolecules to make tissue in order to restore or maintain its function and improve the damaged tissue or even an organ in the laboratory. The purpose of this research was to study the characteristics and biocompatibility of decellularized sheep tracheal scaffolds and also to investigate the differentiation of Adipose-derived stem cells (AD-MSCs) into tracheal cells. After the decellularization of sheep tracheas through the detergent-enzyme method, histological evaluations, measurement of biochemical factors, measurement of DNA amount, and photographing the ultrastructure of the samples by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), they were also evaluated mechanically. Further, In order to check the viability and adhesion of stem cells to the decellularized scaffolds, adipose mesenchymal stem cells were cultured on the scaffolds, and the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)- 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was performed. The expression analysis of the intended genes for the differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells into tracheal cells was evaluated by the real-time PCR method. These results show that the prepared scaffolds are an ideal model for engineering applications, have high biocompatibility, and that the tracheal scaffold provides a suitable environment for the differentiation of ADMSCs. This review provides a basis for future research on tracheal decellularization scaffolds, serves as a suitable model for organ regeneration, and paves the way for their use in clinical medicine.

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 promoter variant (rs2854744) is associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Objective

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease and a growing global epidemic. In NAFLD, liver fat surpasses 5% of hepatocytes without the secondary causes of lipid accumulation or excessive alcohol consumption. Given the link between NAFLD and insulin resistance, the possible association between the rs2854744 (-202 G>T) promoter polymorphism of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) gene and NAFLD was investigated in this study.

Materials and methods

In this genetic case-control association study, the IGFBP3 rs2854744 genotypes of 315 unrelated individuals, including 156 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 159 controls, were determined using polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses.

Results

The "GT+TT" genotype of the IGFBP3 rs2854744 polymorphism, compared with the "GG" genotype, was associated with a 2.7-fold increased risk of NAFLD after adjustment for confounding factors (P = 0.009; odds ratio [OR] = 2.71; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.19-3.18). Additionally, the IGFBP3 rs2854744 "T" allele, in comparison with the "G" allele, was significantly overrepresented in NAFLD patients than the controls (P = 0.008; OR = 1.85; 95%CI = 1.23-2.94).

Conclusion

Our findings first indicated that the IGFBP3 rs2854744 "GT+TT" genotype is a marker of increased NAFLD susceptibility; however, it needs to be supported by further investigations in other populations.

Neuroprotective anticonvulsant and anxiolytic effects of octreotide in wistar rats

Somatostatin interneurons exhibited anti-epileptic activity. As a result, somatostatin agonists appear to be a promising target for antiepileptic drug development (AEDs). In this regard, we investigated the effects of octreotide, a somatostatin analog, on pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizures in male Wistar rats. Animals were given octreotide at doses of 50 or 100 µg/kg for seven days. The anxiolytic effects of octreotide were then evaluated using open field and elevated plus-maze tests. Following that, mice were intraperitoneally given a single convulsive dosage of PTZ (60 mg/kg) and then monitored for 30 min for symptoms of seizures. Finally, the antioxidant capacity of brain tissue and histopathological changes in the hippocampus were investigated. Octreotide therapy for seven days at 50 or 100 µg/kg was more effective than diazepam in preventing acute PTZ-induced seizures (P < 0.05). Furthermore, both octreotide dosages revealed substantial anxiolytic effects in open-field and elevated plus-maze tests compared to untreated rats. Nonetheless, octreotide's anxiolytic impact was less effective than diazepam's. On the other hand, octreotide also suppressed neuronal apoptosis and attenuated oxidative stress. Our results suggest that chronic administration of octreotide has anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, and antioxidant activity in the male Wistar rat model.

The Schiff base hydrazine copper(II) complexes induce apoptosis by P53 overexpression and prevent cell migration through protease-independent pathways

Although chemotherapy has increased the life expectancy of cancer patients, its toxic side effects remain a major challenge. Recently, organometallic compounds, such as Schiff base copper complexes, have become promising candidates for next-generation anticancer drugs owing to their unique anticancer activities. In this study, binuclear copper(II) complex-1 and mononuclear copper(II) complex-2 were examined to analyze their anticancer mechanisms further. For this purpose, a viability test, flow cytometry analysis of apoptosis and the cell cycle, migration assay, and gene expression analysis were performed. According to our results, complex-1 was more cytotoxic than complex-2 at 24/48-h intervals. Our findings also demonstrated that both complexes induced apoptosis at IC50 concentrations and arrested the cell cycle at the G1-S checkpoint. However, complex-1 accelerates cell cycle arrest at the sub-G0/G1 phase more than complex-2 does. Furthermore, gene expression analysis showed that only complex-1 induces the expression of p53. Interestingly, both complexes induced Bcl-2 overexpression. However, they did not affect MMP-13 expression. More interestingly, both complexes inhibited cell migration in different ways, including amoeboid and collective, by recruiting protease-independent pathways. This study confirmed that adding several metal cores and co-ligands increased the activity of the complex. It also appeared that Cu-containing complexes could prevent the migration of cancer cells through protease-independent pathways, which can be used for novel therapeutic purposes.

A visfatin gene promoter polymorphism (rs1319501) is associated with susceptibility to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Background: Considering the role of visfatin in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a growing global epidemic, this article explores the potential association between the visfatin gene (NAMPT) and NAFLD. Methods: We used the PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism method to genotype the rs1319501 promoter variant of the NAMPT gene in 154 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 158 controls in this case-control genetic association study. Results: The 'CC+TC' genotype of NAMPT rs1319501 in comparison to the 'TT' genotype occurred less frequently in the cases with NAFLD than the controls, and the difference remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors (p = 0.029; odds ratio = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.31-0.82). Conclusion: This study showed, for the first time, that the carriers of the NAMPT rs1319501 'CC+TC' genotype had a 45% decreased risk for NAFLD.

Neuroprotection of fullerene in improving cognitive-behavioral disruptions and neurobiochemical enzymes activities

Aim: Here, we report the synthesis and evaluation of fullerene C60 nanoparticles' (FC60 NPs') therapeutic efficacy in animals with aluminum-induced oxidative stress. Materials & methods: Effects of FC60 NPs on the altered activity levels of neurobiochemical enzymes and oxidative parameters in brain and liver tissues have been evaluated. Aluminum was injected for 3 weeks and from the beginning of the third week, FC60 NPs were injected for 1 week. Results: Administration of FC60 NPs showed a significant improvement in the altered activity level of the selected markers. Conclusion: Results suggest synthesized FC60 NPs as a therapeutic option for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Enhancement of nerve regeneration with nimodipine treatment after sciatic nerve injury

Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI/s) are common orthopedic conditions, characterized by motor and sensory deficits in the damaged region. There is growing evidence that the L-type calcium channel antagonist nimodipine has neuroprotective and neuroregenerative effects in animal models of neurological disorders. The efficacy of nimodipine on improving motor function and sensation following a sciatic nerve crush model was investigated in male Wistar rats as a model of PNI. At different time periods following damage, we evaluated motor function, sensory recovery, electrophysiology, histomorphometry, and gene expression. Moreover, we used histological and mass ratio analysis of the gastrocnemius muscle to assess atrophy. Our findings suggest that the nimodipine improves motor and sensory function more quickly in the damaged region 2, 4, and 6 weeks after 1 week of treatment. Nimodipine treatment also increased the number of myelinated fibers while decreasing their thickness, as shown by histomorphometry. Additionally, nimodipine treatment increases the mRNA levels of neurotrophic factors (BDNF and NGF), which are known to contribute to the regeneration of injured neurons. The impact of nimodipine in PNI recovery may be due to its stimulation of the CREB signaling pathway and suppression of pro-inflammatory factor production.

Effects of attentional focus and gaze instruction during observational learning of a basketball free-throw

Observational learning has long been used to instruct individuals on how to perform a novice motor skill. Recently, research has shown a benefit to instructing learners to focus externally when viewing a video model (Asadi, Aiken, Heidari, & Kochackpour, 2021). Research has also highlighted the effectiveness of modeling correct gaze behaviors when learning a cognitive task (Jarodzka, van Gog, Dorr, Scheiter, & Gerjets, 2013). The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of combining these two modalities. 40 individuals with a mean age of 21.77 ± 1.40 performed a novel motor task where they were asked to either focus internally or externally, and were provided with traditional instruction or were provided with an experienced performer's gaze behaviors while viewing a video demonstration. It was observed that both the external focus groups and the gaze instructed groups performed a basketball free-throw more accurately and had longer periods of quiet eye than an internal focus or traditional verbal instruction (p's < 0.05). Eye tracking also allowed for the assessment of attentional focus adherence. Participants focused on the instructed cues significantly more than irrelevant task aspects or a different focus types (p's < 0.05). These results highlight the effectiveness of cuing a learner to focus externally during observational learning. It also highlights the usefulness of providing correct gaze behaviors when observing a model.

The common variant of rs6214 in insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF1) gene: a potential protective factor for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

PURPOSE

Regarding the central role of insulin resistance in NAFLD, we explored whether insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) and insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) gene variants were associated with NAFLD susceptibility.

METHODS

IGF1 (rs6214) and IGFBP3 (rs3110697) gene variants were genotyped in 154 cases with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 156 controls using PCR-RFLP method.

RESULTS

The IGF1 rs6214 "AA + AG" genotype compared with the "GG" genotype appeared to be a marker of decreased NAFLD susceptibility (p = .006; OR = 0.47, 95%CI = 0.28-0.80). Furthermore, the IGF1 rs6214 "A" allele was underrepresented in the cases than controls (p = .024; OR = 0.61, 95%CI = 0.40-0.94). However, we observed no significant difference in genotype or allele frequencies between the cases and controls for IGFBP3 gene.

CONCLUSIONS

To our knowledge, these findings suggest, for the first time, that the IGF1 rs6214 "A" allele and "AA + AG" genotype have protective effects for NAFLD susceptibility. Nonetheless, further studies are needed to validate our findings.

Role of secretomes in cell-free therapeutic strategies in regenerative medicine

After an injury, peripheral nervous system neurons have the potential to rebuild their axons by generating a complicated activation response. Signals from the damaged axon are required for this genetic transition to occur. Schwann cells (SCs) near a damaged nerve's distal stump also play a role in the local modulation of axonal programs, not only via cell-to-cell contacts but also through secreted signals (the secretome). The secretome is made up of all the proteins that the cell produces, such as cytokines, growth factors, and extracellular vesicles. The released vesicles may carry signaling proteins as well as coding and regulatory RNAs, allowing for multilayer communication. The secretome of SCs is now well understood as being critical for both orchestrating Wallerian degeneration and maintaining axonal regeneration. As a consequence, secretome has emerged as a feasible tissue regeneration alternative to cell therapy. Separate SC secretome components have been used extensively in the lab to promote peripheral nerve regeneration after injury. However, in neurological therapies, the secretome generated by mesenchymal (MSC) or other derived stem cells has been the most often used. In fact, the advantages of cell treatment have been connected to the release of bioactive chemicals and extracellular vesicles, which make up MSCs' secretome.

RESISTIN GENE POLYMORPHISM AND NONALCOHOLIC FATTY LIVER DISEASE RISK

BACKGROUND

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver disease and one of the main global health issues in which liver fat surpasses 5% of hepatocytes without the secondary causes of lipid accumulation or excessive alcohol consumption. Owing to the link between NAFLD and insulin resistance (IR) and obesity and the role of resistin in theses metabolic disorders, we explored the possible association between resistin gene (RETN) variant and NAFLD.

METHODS

A total of 308 unrelated subjects, including 152 patients with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 156 controls were enrolled and genotyped for the RETN gene rs3745367 variant using PCR-RFLP method.

RESULTS

NAFLD patients had higher liver enzymes, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) than the controls (P<0.001). However, we observed no significant difference in genotype and allele frequencies between the cases with NAFLD and the controls for the RETN rs3745367 polymorphism either before or after adjustment for confounding factors including age, BMI, sex, smoking status, SBP, and DBP.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this study is the first one that investigated the association between RETN gene rs3745367 variant and biopsy-proven NAFLD. Our findings do not support a role for this gene polymorphism in NAFLD risk in Iranian population; nonetheless, they need to be further investigated in other populations.

Plant-Derived Metabolites as Potent Inhibitor and Treatment for COVID-19

Pandemic disease, COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is potentially fatal for vulnerable individuals, generated global panic. Medicinal phytochemicals have a lengthy history of being used to treat a wide range of pathogens and diseases. The utilization of natural plant products will be the subject of this review, based on the results of previous researches in preventing the infection of COVID-19. In this review, all data sources including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Science Direct were searched for publications with no particular time restriction to get a holistic and comprehensive view of the research. It was seen that plants natural products like Polyphenols, Alkaloids, Flavonoids, Coumarins and essential oils were able to inhibit main targets in the virus life cycle such as main protease (Mpro), SARS CoV 2 helicase Nsp13 and Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE2). It has been established that natural plant derivatives can be utilized for treating and prevent SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses by inhibiting several prominent viral portions. However, it is imperative to emphasize on standardization and control the quality of medicinal plants-based products in future studies and there should be further properly investigations of these products in order to clinical usage against COVID-19 infection.

Glibenclamide promoted functional recovery following sciatic nerve injury in male Wistar rats

The impact of peripheral nerve damage on a patient's quality of life is severe. The most frequent peripheral nerve crush damage is a sciatic nerve injury. Previous research has shown that glibenclamide (GB) has neuroprotective properties in a variety of oxidative stress-related disorders, including Alzheimer and Parkinson. The goal of this study was to see how GB affected nerve regeneration and improved function of the sciatic nerve in a rat model following a crush injury. We evaluated motor function, sensory recovery, gene expression, and histomorphometry following damage at different time points. Additionally, we assessed atrophy in the gastrocnemius muscle using histology and mass ratio analyses. Our results suggest that 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks following glibenclamide therapy, promotes the recovery of motor and sensory function in the injured site. Following glibenclamid injection, the mRNA levels of neurotrophic factors (NGF and BDNF) are raised. According to histomorphometry assessment, glibenclamide injection also increased the number of myelinated fibers while decreasing their thickness. These results showed that glibenclamide therapy by decreasing the proinflammatory and oxidant factors may enhance the nerve regeneration. It is clear that more research is needed to confirm these findings.

The Impact of New Coronavirus on Cancer Patients

At the end of 2019, a new coronavirus (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)) emerged in China and then spread worldwide. Presently, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a main public health issue. As of August 2021, more than 200 million confirmed cases from coronavirus and more than 4 million deaths have been reported by WHO in 222 countries. The data sources are Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct articles. Publications were searched without regard to time in order to obtain a holistic and comprehensive perspective of the research done on this issue thus far. The SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted from the human-to-human by respiratory droplets and shows great potential for a pandemic. Therefore, on March 11, 2020, COVID-19 was introduced as a global pandemic by WHO. Cancer patients are at high risk for exposure to the coronavirus. In the present article, we discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the quality of life of cancer patients and their treatment process. One of these challenges is not visiting the patients in medical centers and hospitals for afraid of contracting the virus. Therefore, the diagnosis and treatment of cancer patients may be delayed, which is a serious threat to the lives of cancer patients. In this article, in addition to the impact of coronavirus on the lives of cancer patients, the severity of the disease in these patients, their required medical care, and the vaccination process are discussed.

CIRCULATING GHRELIN LEVELS AND SUSCEPTIBILITY TO COLORECTAL CÂNCER

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Considering the association between colorectal cancer (CRC) and both insulin resistance and obesity, and the prominent role of ghrelin in these metabolic disorders, we explored whether plasma levels of ghrelin were associated with CRC. Moreover, in the patients with CRC the possible correlations between ghrelin and insulin, insulin resistance, and body mass index (BMI) as an indicator of obesity were examined.

METHODS

A total of 170 subjects, including 82 cases with CRC and 88 controls were enrolled in this study. Plasma levels of ghrelin, insulin, and glucose were measured in all the subjects using ELISA and glucose oxidase methods. Furthermore, insulin resistance was assessed by calculating HOMA-IR index.

RESULTS

The cases with CRC had decreased ghrelin levels (P<0.001) and a higher HOMA-IR index (P<0.001) than controls. Interestingly, when CRC patients were stratified based on tumor site, lower ghrelin levels and a higher HOMA-IR index were observed in the patients with either colon or rectal cancer vs. controls too. Additionally, there were an age and BMI-independent negative correlation between ghrelin levels and HOMA-IR (r=-0.365, P<0.05), and an age-independent negative correlation between ghrelin levels and BMI (r=-0.335, P<0.05) in the rectal subgroup.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support a role for ghrelin in connection with insulin resistance and obesity in CRC susceptibility; however, it needs to be corroborated by further studies.

The "GG" genotype of rs26802 variant in the ghrelin gene is a potential protective factor against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an emerging global chronic liver disease worldwide. Considering the powerful association between NAFLD, insulin resistance (IR) and obesity, as well as the key role of ghrelin in these metabolic disorders, we hypothesized that some single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the ghrelin (GHRL) and ghrelin receptor (GHSR) genes might be associated with NAFLD.

Methods

We conducted a case-control retrospective study of 150 cases with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 155 controls. The diagnosis of NAFLD was established before the start of the genotyping process. All the 305 subjects were genotyped for GHRL SNP rs26802 or -501T>G and GHSR SNP rs572169 or Arg159Arg using the PCR-RFLP method.

Results

The GHRL rs26802 "GG" genotype compared with the "TT" genotype and "TT+TG" genotype appears to be a marker of decreased NAFLD susceptibility even after adjustment for confounding factors (P = 0.006; OR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.03-0.56 and P = 0.003; OR = 0.16, 95% CI = 0.05-0.53, respectively). However, we observed no significant difference in genotype or allele frequencies between the cases and controls for GHSR SNP rs572169.

Conclusions

These findings proposed, for the first time, that the GHRL rs26802 "GG" genotype has a protective effect against NAFLD. Nonetheless, this observation warrants further investigations in other populations.

Importance of Nano Medicine and New Drug Therapies for Cancer

Cancer is one of the deadly diseases leading to approximately 7.6 million deaths worldwide, with the mortality rate of 13%, and the number of deaths is expected to increase to 13.1 million within the next 10 years. In controlled drug delivery systems (DDS), the drug is transported to the desired location. Thus, the influence of drugs on vital tissues and undesirable side effects can be minimised. Additionally, DDS protects the drug from rapid degradation or clearance and enhances drug concentration in target tissues, and therefore, minimise the required dose of drug. This modern form of therapy is particularly important when there is a discrepancy between the dose and concentration of a drug. Cell-specific targeting can be achieved by attaching drugs to individually designed carriers. Recent developments in nanotechnology have shown that nanoparticles (particles with diameter < 100 nm in at least one dimension) have great potential as drug carriers. Because of their small size, these nanostructures exhibit unique physicochemical and biological properties that make them a favourable material for biomedical applications. Therefore, in this review, we aimed to describe the importance and types of nanomedicines and efficient ways in which new drug delivery systems for the treatment of cancer can be developed.

Role of sperm apoptosis and oxidative stress in male infertility: A narrative review

Activation of caspase, externalization of phosphatidyl serine, change in the mitochondrial membrane potential, and DNA fragmentation are apoptosis markers found in human ejaculated spermatozoa. Also, reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a vital role in the different types of male infertility. In this review, data sources including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Science Direct were searched for publications with no particular time restriction to get a holistic and comprehensive view of the research. Apoptosis regulates the male germ cells, correct function and development from the early embryonic stages of gonadal differentiation to fertilization. In addition to maintaining a reasonable ratio between the Sertoli and germ cells, apoptosis is one of the well-known quality control mechanisms in the testis. Also, high ROS levels cause a heightened and dysregulated apoptotic response. Apoptosis is one of the well-known mechanisms of quality control in the testis. Nevertheless, increased apoptosis may have adverse effects on sperm production. Recent studies have shown that ROS and the consequent oxidative stress play a crucial role in apoptosis. This review aims to assimilate and summarize recent findings on the apoptosis in male reproduction and fertility. Also, this review discusses the update on the role of ROS in normal sperm function to guide future research in this area.

The Leu72Met (rs696217 G>T) Polymorphism of the Ghrelin Gene Might Be a Protective Factor for Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing problem and the commonest cause of chronic liver disease throughout the world. Given the strong association between NAFLD and insulin resistance and obesity, as well as the central role of ghrelin in these metabolic disorders, we explored whether ghrelin (GHRL) and ghrelin receptor (GHSR) gene polymorphisms were associated with susceptibility to NAFLD.

METHODS

In this case-control retrospective study which was conducted between April 2010 and July 2013, GHRL (rs696217 or Leu72Met) and GHSR (rs2922126) gene polymorphisms were genotyped in 153 cases with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 157 controls using the polymerase chain reaction - restriction fragment length polymorphism method.

RESULTS

The GHRL rs696217 "GT+TT" genotype or "GT" genotype compared with the "GG" genotype occurred less frequently in the patients with NAFLD than the controls and the differences remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors such as age and body mass index (p=0.018; OR=0.35, 95%CI: 0.14-0.84 and p=0.046; OR=0.40, 95%CI: 0.16-0.98, respectively). Furthermore, the GHRL rs696217 'T' allele compared with 'G' allele was significantly underrepresented in the cases (p=0.007; OR=0.33, 95%CI: 0.15-0.76). Nevertheless, no significant difference was found for GHSR rs2922126 gene polymorphism.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggested, for the first time, that the GHRL rs696217 or Leu72Met "GT+TT" genotype and "GT" genotype compared with "GG" genotype, as well as the "T" or Met72 allele compared with "G" or Leu72 allele had a protective effect for NAFLD susceptibility. However, other studies are required to confirm these findings.

The effect of attentional instructions during modeling on gaze behavior and throwing accuracy in 7 to 10 year-old children

Research has shown the effectiveness of attentional instructions and observation on the performance and learning in children. However, there is little research on the effects of instruction that manipulates attentional focus during observation. The purpose of the study was to investigate performance following instructions that directed an individual to focus internally or externally during the viewing of a model. Eye tracking was also used to investigate the visual search strategy under different instructional groups. 24 children between the ages of 7 and 10 years were randomly divided into an internal (IFM) or external (EFM) modeling group. Children performed a 10-trial pre-test to measure throwing accuracy and quiet eye duration (QED). Following pre-test, children observed a model performing the correct overarm throw 10 times while eye movement was recorded. They then performed a 10-trial post-test. Results revealed that both groups improved accuracy from pre-test to post-test (p < .001) and increased QED from pre- to post-test (p < .001). It was also observed that EFM had greater accuracy and (p = .01) and longer QED (p < .001) than IFM during post-testing. Evidence was also observed for adherence to the attentional focus strategy as EFM and IFM looked more frequently at the specific cue provided (p < .001). Directing visual attention to the movement effects while observing a model significantly benefits motor performance and learning in children. Changing the focus of instruction to an external focus improved both throwing accuracy and increased QED.

Poly (L-lactic acid) nanofibrous scaffolds support the proliferation and neural differentiation of mouse neural stem and progenitor cells

BACKGROUND

The distribution and growth of cells on nanofibrous scaffolds seem to be an indispensable precondition in cell tissue engineering. The potential use of biomaterial scaffolds in neural stem cell therapy is increasingly attracting attention.

AIM

In this study, we produced porous nanofibrous scaffolds fabricated from random poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) to support neurogenic differentiation of neural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs), isolated from the subventricular zone (SVZ) of the adult mouse brain.

METHODS

The viability and proliferation of the NSPCs on the nanofibrous PLLA scaffold were also tested by nuclear staining with 4, 6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI), 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). To investigate the differentiation potential of NSPCs on the scaffolds, the cells were treated with a neurogenic differentiation medium, and immunostaining was done to detect neuronal and glial cells after 14 and 21 days of cultivation. Furthermore, the morphology of differentiated cells on the scaffold was examined using SEM.

RESULTS

The DAPI staining revealed the proliferation of NSPCs onto the surface of the nanofibrous PLLA scaffold. DAPI-positive cells were counted on days 2 and 5 after cultivation. The mean number of cells in each microscopic field was significantly (p < .05) increased (51 ± 19 on day 2 compared to 77 ± 25 cells on day 5). The results showed that the cell viability on PLLA scaffolds significantly increased compared to control groups. Moreover, cell viability was significantly increased 5 days after culturing (262.3 ± 50.2) as compared to 2 days culture in Vitro (174.2 ± 28.3, p < .05). Scanning electron micrographs also showed that the NSPCs adhered and differentiated on PLLA scaffolds. We found that the neural cell markers, microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), were expressed in NSPCs seeded on random PLLA scaffolds after 21 days of cultivation.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that the PLLA nano-scaffolds, due to their biocompatible property, are an appropriate structure for the proliferation, differentiation, and normal growth of NSPCs.

Insulin Resistance and Colorectal Cancer Risk: the Role of Elevated Plasma Resistin Levels

PURPOSE

Given the important role of resistin in insulin resistance (IR) and obesity, as well as the associations between both IR and obesity and increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC), we investigated whether plasma resistin levels were associated with CRC risk. Furthermore, the possible correlations between resistin and insulin, IR, and obesity in patients with CRC and controls were explored.

METHODS

This study was conducted as a case-control study and 170 subjects, including 88 controls and 82 cases with CRC, were enrolled and their plasma levels of glucoe, insulin, and resistin were measured using glucose oxidase or ELISA methods. Moreover, IR was calculated according to HOMA-IR index.

RESULTS

The cases with CRC had a higher HOMA-IR than the controls (1.8 ± 0.4 versus 1.4 ± 0.3, P < 0.001). Additionally, after the stratification of the cases with CRC by tumor site, higher levels of resistin and insulin, and a higher HOMA-IR in the cases with rectal cancer than in the controls were observed (resistin 5.9 ± 1.2 versus 5.4 ± 1.3, P = 0.043; insulin 5.9 ± 1.2 versus 5.4 ± 1.3, P = 0.039; HOMA- IR 1.9 ± 0.4 versus 1.3 ± 0.3, P < 0.001). Furthermore, resistin was positively correlated with insulin in the controls (r = 0.737, P < 0.001), the cases with CRC (r = 0.881, P < 0.001), the cases with colon cancer (r = 0.811, P < 0.001), and the cases with rectal cancer (r = 0.990, P < 0.001). All these differences remained significant after adjustment for confounding factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of the present study reinforce the hypothesis that higher plasma levels of resistin in connection with insulin resistance play a role in susceptibility to colorectal, notably rectal, cancer. Nevertheless, further studies with bigger sample sizes are required to validate these findings.

Effect of anaerobic gymnastics exercise on vascular endothelial growth factor in obese boys

Background Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the most important growth factor involved in angiogenesis and appears to be mediated through exercise training, leading to increased blood lactate. Objective To evaluate and compare the effects of anaerobic gymnastics exercise (AGE) on systemic VEGF in obese and normoweight boys.  Methods Sixty boys aged 8 to 12 years who enrolled in elementary level of gymnastics participated in this study and were randomly divided into four groups of 15 subjects each: obese AGE, obese control, normoweight AGE, and normoweight control. The control group didn’t have any exercise during the study. The experimental groups performed 45 minutes of AGE 3 times per week for 8 weeks, which included a 10-minute warm-up, 30-minute main exercises, and 5-minute cool down. Body composition characteristics and VEGF levels in saliva were measured before and after 8 weeks of training. Results Significant changes following AGE were found in the obese group in terms of weight (-8.09%; P=0.001), body fat% (BF%) (-12.81; P=0.001), body fat weight (BFW) (-19.38; P=0.001), and lean body weight (LBW) (-3.20; P=0.001). Saliva levels of VEGF increased post-AGE in the obese (+21.64%; P=0.79) and normoweight groups (+28.22; P=0.06), but the differences were not significant. Significant differences in weight, BF%, and BFW were found in between obese AGE group with obese control, normoweight control and normoweight AGE (P˂0.05). Conclusion Circulating VEGF concentrations slightly increase after 8 weeks of AGE in obese and normal-weight groups. Moreover, we demonstrate that weight significantly decreased in obese children after they engaged in AGE training.

THE EFFECT OF AN 8-WEEK ANAEROBIC GYMNASTICS TRAINING ON BDNF, VEGF, AND SOME PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS IN CHILDREN

The purpose of the present study was to observe changes in levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), resting metabolic rate (RMR) and maximum oxygen consumption (VO2max) in the gymnast children after an anaerobic gymnastics training program. Thirty beginner gymnasts aged 8-12 years old were randomly assigned to control (n = 15) and experimental (n = 15) groups. The anaerobic gymnastics training was conducted for 8 weeks, 3 times per a week. Each session lasted 45 minutes: 10 min warm-up, 30 min core exercise, and 5 min cool down. The anthropometric and body composition of subjects were measured and growth factors were measured by using human  BDNF and VEGF PicoKine™ ELISA Kit and analysis was performed using sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Morland et al.) before and after the intervention, and VO2max, maximum heart rate and RMR were measured using a gas analyzer. At the baseline there were not any significant differences between both groups (p>0.05). But in the post-test, a significant difference was observed for BDNF(p=0.02) and VEGF(p=0.018) values between the two groups. Within-group there was a decrease in the value of the maximum heart rate indicator (P<0.05) and VO2max and BDNF increased significantly after an intervention (P<0.05). In conclusion, the results of the present study suggest that anaerobic gymnastic training increases the level of salivary BDNF and VEGF in children. These types of exercises may also improve cardiorespiratory fitness in children.

Herbal Medicine as Neuroprotective Potential Agent in Human and Animal Models: A Historical Overview

Neurodegenerative disorders could be a most important health issue within the 21st century. In the recent past; there has been a growing interest in medicinal plants. Chemical fruits and vegetables are said to decrease the possibility of many chief ailments, together with cardiovascular and cancer disorders as well as neurodegenerative ailments. Hence, who eat more fruits and vegetables may be less threaten for developing certain diseases caused by neurological dysfunction. The present review provides an overview of the about 14 most important plants used for neurological disorders and explores their neurological protection for the development of new pharmacological potential drugs. The data sources including the publications on Google Scholar, PubMed, and Science Direct. Publications searched with no particular time restriction in order to get a holistic and comprehensive view of the research done on this topic so far. Therefore, we present a systematic approach for herbal medicine as neuroprotective agent. From ancient time the herbal medicines are used to cure neurological symptoms. While the exact pharmacology of these herbs has not yet been set on, some of them have anti-inflammatory or antioxidant properties on different peripheral systems. The significant variety of medicinal plants makes it an essential source of healthy compounds compared to current therapeutic agents. In this review, the importance of phytochemicals for the function of neurological protection and other related disorders, in particular, the process mechanism and therapeutic prospective will be emphasize.

Hair follicle stem cells differentiation into bone cells on collagen scaffold

The hair follicle is a dynamic structure which contains different niches for stem cells, therefore; it has been considered as valuable and rich sources of stem cells, due to easy access, multipotency and non-oncogenic properties. In the present study, the differentiation capacities of hair follicle stem cells into bone cells on the natural collagen scaffolds were investigated. The stem cells were extracted from the hair follicle bulge area of male Wistar rats' whisker and cultured until 3rd passage, then osteogenic differentiations were induced by culturing the cells in the specific osteogenic medium. After 3 weeks, the differentiation parameters, including morphological changes, levels of calcification and expression of the bone specific genes were detected. The hydrogel preparation and scaffold fabrication was carried out using the extracted collagen and was studied by scanning electron microscope. Comparison of the stem cells' growth and changes on the scaffold and non-scaffold conditions showed that, in the both situation, the cells revealed differentiation signs of osteocytes, including large and cubic morphology with a star-shaped nucleus. Staining by Alizarin-red and Von-Kossa methods showed the presence of red and black calcium mass on the scaffold. Expression of the osteopontin and alkaline phosphatase genes confirmed the differentiation. Considerable porosity in the surface of the scaffold was recorded by scanning electron microscopy, which made it convenient for cells' attachment and growth. The data showed that the bulge stem cells possess significant capacity for osteoblastic differentiation and collagen scaffolds were found to be an appropriate matrix for growth and differentiation of the cell.

Effects of green synthesis of sulfur nanoparticles from Cinnamomum zeylanicum barks on physiological and biochemical factors of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

In this study, the effect of green synthesized sulfur nanoparticle (SNP) at different concentration (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 mg/ml) on some physiological, phytochemical and biochemical traits of lettuce plants was investigated. For the first time, SNP were green synthesized using Cinnamomum zeylanicum barks extract. Our results indicated that the treatment of lettuce plants with 1 mg/ml of SNP improved the growth and photosynthetic parameters of lettuce plants than related control. Some other physiological parameters such as proline, glycine betaine and soluble sugars levels along with some phytochemical parameters like anthocyanin, total phenol, flavonoids and tannin contents were enhanced after treatment of the plants with same concentration of SNP. On the other hand, specific activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase) and stress markers level, MDA and H2O2 were reduced in the same treated lettuce plants. However, a concentration of 10 mg/ml of SNP exhibited toxicity on lettuce plants with inducing oxidative stress markers (H2O2 and MDA) and consequently reducing plant growth and biomass. This oxidative stress tend to diminish some physiological, phytochemical and biochemical parameters in treated lettuce plants. Overall, it can be concluded that the green synthesis SNP at an optimal concentration of 1 mg/ml improved physiological parameters in the lettuce plants making them potent to tolerate stressful conditions. However, higher concentration of SNP (10 mg/ml) indicated toxic effects on all of the physiological parameters.

A 3'-untranslated region variant (rs2289046) of insulin receptor substrate 2 gene is associated with susceptibility to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

PURPOSE

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an increasing global health concern defined by excessive hepatic fat content in the absence of excessive alcohol consumption. Regarding the key role of insulin and insulin resistance in NAFLD, we investigated whether insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) and insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS2) gene variants were associated with NAFLD risk.

METHODS

In this case-control study, 305 subjects including 151 cases with biopsy-proven NAFLD and 154 controls were enrolled. All the subjects were genotyped for IRS1 (rs1801278) and IRS2 (rs2289046) gene variants using PCR-RFLP method.

RESULTS

Our findings showed that the IRS2 rs2289046 "GG+AG" genotype compared with "AA" genotype to be a marker of decreased NAFLD susceptibility and the difference remained significant even after adjustment for confounding factors including age, BMI, sex, smoking status, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure (P=0.014; OR=0.50, 95%CI= 0.29-0.87). Furthermore, the IRS2 "G" allele was significantly underrepresented in the cases with NAFLD than controls (P=0.026 ; OR=0.62, 95%CI=0.41-0.94). However, no significant difference was found for IRS1 rs1801278 gene variant.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests, for the first time, that the IRS2 gene rs2289046 variant may play a role in NAFLD susceptibility. Nevertheless, this observation warrants further investigations in other populations.

Cardiac Differentiation of Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells Is Driven by BMP4 and bFGF but Counteracted by 5-Azacytidine and Valproic Acid

Objective

Bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP4) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) play important roles in embryonic heart development. Also, two epigenetic modifying molecules, 5'-azacytidine (5'-Aza) and valproic acid (VPA) induce cardiomyogenesis in the infarcted heart. In this study, we first evaluated the role of BMP4 and bFGF in cardiac trans-differentiation and then the effectiveness of 5´-Aza and VPA in reprogramming and cardiac differentiation of human adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ADSCs).

Materials and Methods

In this experimental study, human ADSCs were isolated by collagenase I digestion. For cardiac differentiation, third to fifth-passaged ADSCs were treated with BMP4 alone or a combination of BMP4 and bFGF with or without 5'-Aza and VPA pre-treatment. After 21 days, the expression of cardiac-specific markers was evaluated by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), quantitative real-time PCR, immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry and western blot analyses.

Results

BMP4 and more prominently a combination of BMP4 and bFGF induced cardiac differentiation of human ADSCs. Epigenetic modification of the ADSCs by 5'-Aza and VPA significantly upregulated the expression of OCT4A, SOX2, NANOG, Brachyury/T and GATA4 but downregulated GSC and NES mRNAs. Furthermore, pre-treatment with 5'-Aza and VPA upregulated the expression of TBX5, ANF, CX43 and CXCR4 mRNAs in three-week differentiated ADSCs but downregulated the expression of some cardiac-specific genes and decreased the population of cardiac troponin I-expressing cells.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated the inductive role of BMP4 and especially BMP4 and bFGF combination in cardiac trans-differentiation of human ADSCs. Treatment with 5'-Aza and VPA reprogrammed ADSCs toward a more pluripotent state and increased tendency of the ADSCs for mesodermal differentiation. Although pre-treatment with 5'-Aza and VPA counteracted the cardiogenic effects of BMP4 and bFGF, it may be in favor of migration, engraftment and survival of the ADSCs after transplantation.

Spotlight on 17-AAG as an Hsp90 inhibitor for molecular targeted cancer treatment

Hsp90 is a ubiquitous chaperone with important roles in the organization and maturation of client proteins that are involved in the progression and survival of cancer cells. Multiple oncogenic pathways can be affected by inhibition of Hsp90 function through degradation of its client proteins. That makes Hsp90 a therapeutic target for cancer treatment. 17-allylamino-17-demethoxy-geldanamycin (17-AAG) is a potent Hsp90 inhibitor that binds to Hsp90 and inhibits its chaperoning function, which results in the degradation of Hsp90's client proteins. There have been several preclinical studies of 17-AAG as a single agent or in combination with other anticancer agents for a wide range of human cancers. Data from various phases of clinical trials show that 17-AAG can be given safely at biologically active dosages with mild toxicity. Even though 17-AAG has suitable pharmacological potency, its low water solubility and high hepatotoxicity could significantly restrict its clinical use. Nanomaterials-based drug delivery carriers may overcome these drawbacks. In this paper, we review preclinical and clinical research on 17-AAG as a single agent and in combination with other anticancer agents. In addition, we highlight the potential of using nanocarriers and nanocombination therapy to improve therapeutic effects of 17-AAG.

In Vitro Characterization and Evaluation of the Cytotoxicity Effects of Nisin and Nisin-Loaded PLA-PEG-PLA Nanoparticles on Gastrointestinal (AGS and KYSE-30), Hepatic (HepG2) and Blood (K562) Cancer Cell Lines

The aim of this study was an in vitro evaluation and comparison of the cytotoxic effects of free nisin and nisin-loaded PLA-PEG-PLA nanoparticles on gastrointestinal (AGS and KYSE-30), hepatic (HepG2), and blood (K562) cancer cell lines. To create this novel anti-cancer drug delivery system, the nanoparticles were synthesized and then loaded with nisin. Subsequently, their biocompatibility, ability to enter cells, and physicochemical properties, including formation, size, and shape, were studied using hemolysis, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Then, its loading efficiency and release kinetics were examined to assess the potential impact of this formulation for the nanoparticle carrier candidacy. The cytotoxicities of nisin and nisin-loaded nanoparticles were evaluated by using the MTT and Neutral Red (NR) uptake assays. Detections of the apoptotic cells were done via Ethidium Bromide (EB)/Acridine Orange (AO) staining. The FTIR spectra, SEM images, and DLS graph confirmed the formations of the nanoparticles and nisin-loaded nanoparticles with spherical, distinct, and smooth surfaces and average sizes of 100 and 200 nm, respectively. The loading efficiency of the latter nanoparticles was about 85-90%. The hemolysis test represented their non-cytotoxicities and the FITC images indicated their entrance inside the cells. An increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells was observed through EB/AO staining. These results demonstrated that nisin had a cytotoxic effect on AGS, KYSE-30, HepG2, and K562 cancer cell lines, while the cytotoxicity of nisin-loaded nanoparticles was more than that of the free nisin.

Enhanced anti-bacterial activities of ZnO nanoparticles and ZnO/CuO nanocomposites synthesized using Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. fruit extract

A green synthesis route was developed for preparation of the ZnO nanoparticles and ZnO/CuO nanocomposites by using Vaccinium arctostaphylos L. fruit extract, and their anti-bacterial activities against two pathogenic bacteria, Escherichia coli (Gram negative) and Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive), were investigated. The fabricated nanomaterials were characterized by XRD, EDX, FESEM, TEM, TGA, FT-IR, UV-vis DRS and BET instruments. The results showed that the sizes of ZnO and CuO nanoparticles in the ZnO/CuO (10%) nanocomposite were 12 and 8 nm, respectively. In addition, specific surface areas of the ZnO (W), ZnO (ext) and ZnO/CuO samples were 29.3, 27.5 and 18.0 m²/g^-1, respectively. The results obtained from EDX, TGA, FT-IR and UV-Vis DRS analyses displayed that some of the organic compounds from the fruit extract have bonded to the surface of the samples fabricated in the presence of the fruit extract. The results revealed that the anti-bacterial activity of the fabricated samples is as ZnO/CuO (10%) > ZnO/CuO (5%) > ZnO (ext) > ZnO (W). Viability percentages for E. coli and S. aureus bacteria were 12.1 ± 0.39 and 14.9 ± 0.65 in the presence of the ZnO/CuO (10%) nanocomposite, respectively. The SEM images clearly demonstrated the disruption of the bacterial membranes during the inactivation process.

Ultrasound-enhanced gene delivery to alfalfa cells by hPAMAM dendrimer nanoparticles

Cationic polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimers are highly branched nanoparticles with unique molecular properties, which make them promising nanocarriers for gene delivery into cells. This research evaluated the ability of hyperbranched PAMAM (hPAMAM)-G2 with a diethylenetriamine core to interact with DNA, its protection from ultrasonic damage, and delivery to alfalfa cells. Additionally, the effects of ultrasound on the efficacy of hPAMAM-G2 for the delivery and expression of the gus A gene in the alfalfa cells were investigated. The electrophoresis retardation of plasmid DNA occurred at an N/P ratio (where N is the number of hPAMAM nitrogen atoms and P is the number of DNA phosphorus atoms) of 3 and above, and hPAMAM-G2 dendrimers completely immobilized the DNA at an N/P ratio of 4. The analysis of the DNA dissociated from the dendriplexes revealed a partial protection of the DNA from ultrasound damage at N/P ratios lower than 2, and with increasing N/P ratios, the DNA was better protected. Sonication of the alfalfa cells in the presence of ssDNA-FITC-hPAMAM increased the ssDNA delivery efficiency to 36%, which was significantly higher than that of ssDNA-FITC-hPAMAM without sonication. Additionally, the efficiency of transfection and the expression of the gus A gene were dependent on the N/P ratio and the highest efficiency (1.4%) was achieved at an N/P ratio of 10. The combination of 120 s of ultrasound and hPAMAM-DNA increased the gusA gene transfection and expression to 3.86%.

Parathyroid hormone gene rs6256 and calcium sensing receptor gene rs1801725 variants are not associated with susceptibility to colorectal cancer in Iran

BACKGROUND

Substantial evidence from epidemiological studies has suggested that increased levels of calcium may play a protective role against colorectal cancer (CRC). Given the vital role of calcium sensing receptor (CaSR) and parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the maintenance of calcium homeostasis, we explored whether the rs1801725 (A986S) variant located in exon 7 of the CaSR gene and the rs6256 variant located in exon 3 of PTH gene might be associated with CRC risk.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this study 860 subjects including 350 cases with CRC and 510 controls were enrolled and genotyped using PCR-RFLP methods.

RESULTS

We observed no significant difference in genotype or allele frequencies between the cases with CRC and controls for both CaSR and PTH genes either before or after adjustment for confounding factors including age, BMI, sex, smoking status, and family history of CRC. Furthermore, no evidence for effect modification of any association of rs1801725 and rs6256 variants and CRC by BMI, sex, or tumor site was observed. In addition, there was no significant difference in genotype and allele frequencies between the normal weight (BMI<25 kg/m2) cases and overweight/ obese (BMI≥25 kg/m2) cases for the two SNPs.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicated that the CaSR gene A986S variant is not a genetic contributor to CRC risk in the Iranian population. Furthermore, our results suggest for the first time that PTH gene variant does not affect CRC risk. Nonetheless, further studies with larger sample size are needed to validate these findings.