Detection of CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Fetal Hemoglobin Reactivation in Erythroblasts Derived from Cord Blood-Hematopoietic Stem Cells

Reactivation of the fetal hemoglobin (HbF) in adult erythroid cells via genome editing is a strategy for the treatment of β-thalassemia and sickle cell disease. In related reports, the reactivation of HbF is regularly examined in erythroblasts which are generated from the adult CD34+ hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). However, the procurement of adult HSPCs, either from the bone-marrow (BM) or from mobilized peripheral-blood (mPB), is difficult. Cord-blood (CB) is a readily available source of HSPCs. CB-HSPCs, however, produce high quantities of HbF following differentiation into the erythroid lineage-a potential drawback in such studies. Here, we have edited the BCL11A enhancer (a well-characterized HbF-quantitative trait loci or QTL) via CRISPR/Cas9 in order to determine whether HbF reactivation could be detected in CB-HSPC-derived erythroblasts. In the edited erythroblasts, insertion/deletion (indel) frequencies of 74.0-80.4% and BCL11A RNA reduction levels of 92.6 ± 5.1% (P < 0.0001) were obtained. In turn, the γ/β-globin transcript ratios were increased from 11.3 ± 1.1-fold to 77.1 ± 2.0-fold, i.e., by 6.8-fold (P < 0.0001)-and the HbF% levels increased from 34.3% in the control population to 43.5% in the BCL11A edited erythroblasts. Our results suggest that γ-globin/HbF reactivation via genome editing can be detected in CB-HSPCs generated erythroblasts-rendering CB-HSPCs a useful model for similar studies.

Characterizing Homozygous Variants in Bardet-Biedl Syndrome-Associated Genes Within Iranian Families: Unveiling a Founder Variant in BBS2, c.471G>A

Bardet-Biedl syndrome (BBS) is a rare inherited ciliopathy disorder characterized by a broad spectrum of clinical symptoms such as retinal dystrophy, obesity, polydactyly, genitourinary and kidney anomalies, learning disability, and hypogonadism. The understanding of the variants involved in BBS-causing genes remains incomplete, highlighting the need for further research to develop a molecular diagnostic strategy for this syndrome. Singleton whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on sixteen patients. Our study revealed (1) nine patients carried eight homozygous pathogenic variants with four of them being novel (2) Specifically, a synonymous splicing variant (c.471G > A) in BBS2 gene in six patients with Baloch ethnicity. The identification of runs of homozygosity (ROH) calling was performed using the BCFtools/RoH software on WES data of patients harboring c.471G > A variant. The presence of shared homozygous regions containing the identified variant was confirmed in these patients. In-silico analysis predicted the effect of the c.471G > A variants on BBS2 mRNA splicing. This variant results in disrupted wild-type donor site and intron retention in the mature mRNA. (3) And a deletion of exons 14 to 17 in the BBS1 gene was identified in one patient by Copy-Number Variation (CNV) analysis using the ExomeDepth pipeline. Our results identified the founder variant c.471G > A in the BBS2 gene in the Baloch ethnicity of the Iranian population. This finding can guide the diagnostic approach of this syndrome in future studies.

Discriminative features in White-Sutton syndrome: literature review and first report in Iran

White-Sutton Syndrome is one of the rare neurodevelopmental disorder inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, mainly caused by de novo mutations in the POGZ gene and shows many phenotypic signs such as intellectual disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other spectra. About 70 patients with this syndrome have been reported worldwide. In this paper, we have described different phenotypic features of the White-Sutton Syndrome with a brief review of recent literatures. Finally, we have reported an Iranian male with intellectual disability and visual impairment. We have explained the clinical symptoms of the patient and have compared the patient's phenotype with existing data from individuals with White-Sutton Syndrome. The results of Whole Exome Sequencing test, performed for the patient, declared the presence of a de novo mutation in POGZ gene and confirmed the White-Sutton Syndrome diagnosis.

Genetic Analysis of 27 Y-STR Haplotypes in 11 Iranian Ethnic Groups

BACKGROUND

The study of Y-chromosomal variations provides valuable insights into male susceptibility in certain diseases like cardiovascular disease (CVD). In this study, we analyzed paternal lineage in different Iranian ethnic groups, not only to identify developing medical etiology, but also to pave the way for gender-specific targeted strategies and personalized medicine in medical genetic research studies.

METHODS

The diversity of eleven Iranian ethnic groups was studied using 27 Y-chromosomal short tandem repeat (Y-STR) haplotypes from Y-filer® Plus kit. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) based on pair-wise RST along with multidimensional scaling (MDS) calculation and Network phylogenic analysis was employed to quantify the differences between 503 unrelated individuals from each ethnicity.

RESULTS

Results from AMOVA calculation confirmed that Gilaks and Azeris showed the largest genetic distance (RST=0.35434); however, Sistanis and Lurs had the smallest considerable genetic distance (RST=0.00483) compared to other ethnicities. Although Azeris had a considerable distance from other ethnicities, they were still close to Turkmens. MDS analysis of ethnic groups gave the indication of lack of similarity between different ethnicities. Besides, network phylogenic analysis demonstrated insignificant clustering between samples.

CONCLUSION

The AMOVA analysis results explain that the close distance of Azeris and Turkmens may be the effect of male-dominant expansions across Central Asia that contributed to historical and demographics of populations in the region. Insignificant differences in network analysis could be the consequence of high mutation events that happened in the Y-STR regions over the years. Considering the ethnic group affiliations in medical research, our results provided an understanding and characterization of Iranian male population for future medical and population genetics studies.

Association of MMP2 and MMP9 gene polymorphisms with nonsyndromic cleft lip/palate in an Iranian population

Background

Cleft lip/palate (CL/P) is a prevalent congenital disorder. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a role in palatogenesis and have been proposed to be associated with nonsyndromic CL/P development. This study aimed to examine the association of MMP2 (rs243866) and MMP9 (rs3918242) gene polymorphism with nonsyndromic CL/P in an Iranian population.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 120 nonsyndromic CL/P patients and 140 healthy newborns in this case-control study. DNA extraction was performed by the salting-out method, and the samples underwent polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP), using Pag and SphI enzymes, for genotyping MMP2 and MMP9 gene polymorphisms. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 11.5. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used to calculate the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The level of statistical significance was set at P<0.05.

Results

No significant association was found between MMP2 gene polymorphism and nonsyndromic CL/P. However, the MMP9 gene polymorphism had a significant association with nonsyndromic CL/P, with a higher prevalence of the T allele and TT genotype in the case group than the control group.

Conclusion

This study indicated a potential link between MMP9 gene polymorphism and nonsyndromic CL/P in an Iranian population. Future investigations with greater sample diversity and larger sample sizes are required to obtain more comprehensive and robust evidence. In-depth analyses and studies involving different ethnic groups can further enhance our understanding of the genetic underpinnings of CL/P.

Whole-exome sequencing revealed a novel homozygous missense variant in OSGEP gene: a case report of Galloway-Mowat syndrome in Iran

Galloway-Mowat syndrome is a rare autosomal-recessive genetic disorder that is characterized by variety of complications such as neurological abnormalities and early-onset progressive kidney disease. Studies have been shown that pathogenic mutations in genes that belong to the KEOPS complex lead to Galloway-Mowat syndrome. Several pathogenic mutations in OSGEP gene, a member of the KEOPS complex, have been detected in Galloway-Mowat syndrome. Here we describe a 12-year-old male with intellectual disability, poor speech, seizures, microcephaly, and nephrotic syndrome that were in favor of Galloway-Mowat syndrome, born to a healthy Iranian consanguineous parents. Extracted genomic DNA from blood sample was used to perform whole-exome sequencing in the patient. The mutational screening revealed a novel homozygote OSGEP gene missense variant. Our finding established whole-exome sequencing as a valuable technic for the detection of rare variants.

Implementation of an In-House Platform for Rapid Screening of SARS-CoV-2 Genome Variations

BACKGROUND

Global real-time monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 variants is crucial to controlling the COVID-19 outbreak. The purpose of this study was to set up a Sanger-based platform for massive SARS-CoV-2 variant tracking in laboratories in low-resource settings.

METHODS

We used nested RT-PCR assay, Sanger sequencing and lineage assignment for 930-bp of the SARS-CoV-2 spike gene, which harbors specific variants of concern (VOCs) mutations. We set up our platform by comparing its results with whole genome sequencing (WGS) data on 137 SARS-CoV-2 positive samples. Then, we applied it on 1028 samples from March-September 2021.

RESULTS

In total, 125 out of 137 samples showed 91.24% concordance in mutation detection. In lineage assignment, 123 out of 137 samples demonstrated 89.78% concordance, 65 of which were assigned as VOCs and showed 100% concordance. Of 1028 samples screened by our in-house method, 78 distinct mutations were detected. The most common mutations were: S:D614G (21.91%), S:P681R (12.19%), S:L452R (12.15%), S:T478K (12.15%), S:N501Y (8.91%), S:A570D (8.89%), S:P681H (8.89%), S:T716I (8.74%), S:L699I (3.50%) and S:S477N (0.28%). Of 1028 samples, 980 were attributed as VOCs, which include the Delta (B.1.617.2) and Alpha (B.1.1.7) variants.

CONCLUSION

Our proposed in-house Sanger-based assay for SARS-CoV-2 lineage assignment is an accessible strategy in countries with poor infrastructure facilities. It can be applied in the rapid tracking of SARS-CoV-2 VOCs in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Whole Exome Sequencing Identified the Causative Mutation in a 4-Year-Old Female with Mulibrey Nanism: A Case Report

Mulibrey Nanism is a rare multisystem disorder inherited in an autosomal recessive manner caused by mutations in the TRIM37 gene. Most of the reported cases are from Finland, but this condition has rarely occurred in other countries. Although the clinical diagnosis of Mulibrey nanism is a challenge during the first months of life, the disease can be suspected clinically due to the distinctive features of the patients. A 4-year-old female with pneumonia, cardiomyopathy, growth retardation, peripheral edema, and characteristic craniofacial features was referred to Tehran Hope Generation Foundation Genetic diagnosis Center, in October 2021. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood samples of the patient and her parents and Whole exome sequencing was performed for the patient. Whole exome sequencing revealed a homozygous G>A splice site variant (TRIM37; c.370-1G>A). Sanger sequencing confirmed the segregation of the variant with phenotype in this family. Whole exome sequencing can be helpful in the diagnosis of the patients suspecting to Mulibrey nanism and lacking sufficient clinical presentation according to the diagnostic algorithm.

A Panel of Circulating microRNAs as a Potential Biomarker for the Early Detection of Gastric Cancer

Background: The high mortality rate of Gastric Cancer (GC) is a consequence of delayed diagnosis. The early diagnosis of GC could increase the five-year survival rate among patients. We aimed to find a panel of microRNAs (miRNA) for the detection of GC in the early stages.   Methods: In this case-control study, we selected consistently upregulated miRNAs from the results of 12 high-throughput miRNA profiling studies in GC. In the profiling phase, the differential expressions of 13 candidate miRNAs were analyzed by quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) in two pooled RNA samples prepared from the plasma of eight GC patients and eight matched controls. In the validation phase, significantly upregulated miRNAs from the profiling phase were further evaluated in the plasma samples of 97 patients with stage I-IV gastric adenocarcinoma and 100 healthy controls.   Results: In the profiling phase, six miRNAs (miR-18a, 21, 25, 92a, 125b and 221) were significantly upregulated in the GC patients compared to the controls (p<0.05). However, in the validation phase, only significant up-regulation of miR-18a, 21 and 125b was confirmed (p<0.05). A panel of miR-18a/21/125b was able to detect GC patients with stage I-IV from the controls (p<0.001; AUC=0.92, sensitivity=86%; specificity=85%). In addition, the panel could distinguish the early-stage GC (I+II) from the control group with an AUC of 0.83, a sensitivity of 83%, and a specificity of 75%. Conclusion: A panel of circulating miR18a/21/125b could be suggested as a potential biomarker for the early detection of GC.  

Disease Waves of SARS-CoV-2 in Iran Closely Mirror Global Pandemic Trends

BACKGROUND

Complete SARS-CoV-2 genome sequencing in the early phase of the outbreak in Iran showed two independent viral entries. Subsequently, as part of a genome surveillance project, we aimed to characterize the genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 in Iran over one year after emerging.

METHODS

We provided 319 SARS-CoV-2 whole-genome sequences used to monitor circulating lineages in March 2020-May 2021 time interval.

RESULTS

The temporal dynamics of major SARS-CoV-2 clades/lineages circulating in Iran is comparable to the global perspective and represent the 19A clade (B.4) dominating the first disease wave, followed by 20A (B.1.36), 20B (B.1.1.413), 20I (B.1.1.7), leading the second, third and fourth waves, respectively. We observed a mixture of circulating B.1.36, B.1.1.413, B.1.1.7 lineages in winter 2021, paralleled in a fading manner for B.1.36/B.1.1.413 and a growing rise for B.1.1.7, prompting the fourth outbreak. Entry of the Delta variant, leading to the fifth disease wave in summer 2021, was detected in April 2021. This study highlights three lineages as hallmarks of the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in Iran; B4, dominating early periods of the epidemic, B.1.1.413 (B.1.1 with the combination of [D138Y-S477N-D614G] spike mutations) as a characterizing lineage in Iran, and the co-occurrence of [I100T-L699I] spike mutations in half of B.1.1.7 sequences mediating the fourth peak. It also designates the renowned combination of G and GR clades' mutations as the top recurrent mutations.

CONCLUSION

In brief, we provided a real-time and comprehensive picture of the SARS-CoV-2 genetic diversity in Iran and shed light on the SARS-CoV-2 transmission and circulation on the regional scale.

Electrophysiology of Human Gametes: A Systematic Review

PURPOSE

Oocytes and spermatozoa are electrogenic cells with the ability to respond to electrical stimuli and modulate their electrical properties accordingly. Determination of the ionic events during the gamete maturation helps to design suitable culture media for gametes in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The present systematic review focuses on the electrophysiology of human gametes during different stages of maturation and also during fertilization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The reports published in the English language between January 2000 and July 2021 were extracted from various electronic scientific databases following the PRISMA checklist using specific MeSH keywords.

RESULTS

Subsequent to the screening process with defined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 60 articles have been included in this review. Among them, 11 articles were directly related to the electrophysiology of human oocytes and 49 physiology department to the electrophysiology of human spermatozoa.

CONCLUSIONS

Gametes generate electrical currents by ionic exchange, particularly Na+, K+, Cl-, H+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Se2+, Mg2+, HCO3-, and Ca2+ through specific ion channels in different stages of gamete maturation. The ionic concentrations, pH, and other physicochemical variables are modulated during the gametogenesis, maturation, activation, and the fertilization process following gamete function and metabolism. The electrical properties of human gametes change during different stages of maturation. Although it is demonstrated that the electrical properties are significant regulators of cell signaling and are fundamental to gamete maturation and fertilization, their exact roles in these processes are still poorly understood. Further research is required to unveil the intricate electrophysiological processes of human gamete maturation.

Association of rs2013162 and rs2235375 Polymorphisms in IRF6 Gene with Susceptibility to Non-Syndromic Cleft Lip and Palate

Background: Non-syndromic cleft lip occurs by the interaction of environmental and genetic factors. The purpose of the current study was to analyze the association of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in IRF6 and NSCL/P in an Iranian population. Methods: A group of 105 children with NSCL/P and 185 normal controls were included in the current study. Genotyping of IRF6 rs2013162 and rs2235375 was performed by Polymerase Chain Reaction-Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. Results: A substantial association of AA and CA genotypes in rs2013162 with the risk of NSCL/P (AA vs. CC; OR=2.36; 95%CI [1.05-5.29], p=0.004; and CA vs. CC; OR=0.47; 95%CI [0.28-0.79], p=0.018) was found. However, there were no important associations between A allele and risk of NSCL/P (p=0.980). According to logistic regression analysis results, subjects with GG genotype and G allele in rs2235375 polymorphism had increased risk of NSCL/P. Conclusion: The IRF6 polymorphisms are associated with the susceptibility to NSCL/P in Iranian population.

Molecular characterization of a large cohort of Mucopolysaccharidosis patients: Iran Mucopolysaccharidosis RE-diagnosis Study (IMPRESsion)

Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPSs) are rare, heterogeneous inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) diagnosed through a combination of clinical, biochemical, and genetic investigations. The aim of this study was molecular characterization of the largest cohort of Iranian MPS patients (302 patients from 289 unrelated families), along with tracking their ethnicity and geographical origins. 185/289 patients were studied using an IEM-targeted NGS panel followed by complementary Sanger sequencing, which led to the diagnosis of 154 MPS patients and 5 non-MPS IEMs (diagnostic yield: 85.9%). Furthermore, 106/289 patients who were referred with positive findings went through re-analysis and confirmatory tests which confirmed MPS diagnosis in 104. Among the total of 258 MPS patients, 225 were homozygous, 90 harbored novel variants, and 9 had copy number variations. MPS IV was the most common type (34.8%) followed by MPS I (22.7%) and MPS VI (22.5%). Geographical origin analysis unveiled a pattern of distribution for frequent variants in ARSB (c.430G>A, c.962T>C [p.Leu321Pro], c.281C>A [p.Ser94*]), GALNS (c.319G>A [p.Ala107Thr], c.860C>T [p.Ser287Leu], c.1042A>G [p.Thr348Ala]), and IDUA (c.1A>C [p.Met1Leu], c.1598C>G [p.Pro533Arg], c.1562_1563insC [p.Gly522Argfs*50]). Our extensive patient cohort reveals the genetic and geographic landscape of MPS in Iran, which provides insight into genetic epidemiology of MPS and can facilitate a more cost-effective, time-efficient diagnostic approach based on the region-specific variants. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

A Panel of Circulating microRNAs as a Potential Biomarker for the Early Detection of Gastric Cancer

Background

The high mortality rate of Gastric Cancer (GC) is a consequence of delayed diagnosis. The early diagnosis of GC could increase the five-year survival rate among patients. We aimed to find a panel of microRNAs (miRNA) for the detection of GC in the early stages.

Methods

In this case-control study, we selected consistently upregulated miRNAs from the results of 12 high-throughput miRNA profiling studies in GC. In the profiling phase, the differential expressions of 13 candidate miRNAs were analyzed by quantitative reverse-transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) in two pooled RNA samples prepared from the plasma of eight GC patients and eight matched controls. In the validation phase, significantly upregulated miRNAs from the profiling phase were further evaluated in the plasma samples of 97 patients with stage I-IV gastric adenocarcinoma and 100 healthy controls.

Results

In the profiling phase, six miRNAs (miR-18a, 21, 25, 92a, 125b and 221) were significantly upregulated in the GC patients compared to the controls (p<0.05). However, in the validation phase, only significant up-regulation of miR-18a, 21 and 125b was confirmed (p<0.05). A panel of miR-18a/21/125b was able to detect GC patients with stage I-IV from the controls (p<0.001; AUC=0.92, sensitivity=86%; specificity=85%). In addition, the panel could distinguish the early-stage GC (I+II) from the control group with an AUC of 0.83, a sensitivity of 83%, and a specificity of 75%.

Conclusion

A panel of circulating miR18a/21/125b could be suggested as a potential biomarker for the early detection of GC.

Identification of a Novel Homozygous Mutation in BBS10 Gene in an Iranian Family with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome

Background: Bardet–Biedl Syndrome (BBS) is a rare pleiotropic autosomal recessive disease related to ciliopathies with approximately 25 causative genes. BBS is a multisystemic disorder with wide spectrum of manifestations including truncal obesity, retinal dystrophy, male hypogenitalism, postaxial polydactyly, learning difficulties, and renal abnormalities. Methods: A consanguineous Iranian family with a 28-year-old daughter affected with BBS, resulting from a first cousin marriage, was examined. After clinical examination, Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) was applied. Following the analysis of exome data, Sanger sequencing was used to confirm as well as to co-segregate the candidate variant with the phenotype. Results: A novel homozygous variant [c. 2035G>A (p.E679K)] in exon 2 of the BBS10 gene was found which was categorized as likely pathogenic based on American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines and criteria. In this study, the variant was fully co-segregated with the phenotype in the family. Conclusion: Despite overlapping with other ciliopathies in terms of the phenotype, the BBS has high genetic heterogeneity and clinical variability even among affected members of a family. The symptoms observed in patients are largely related to the genes involved and the type of mutations in the BBS. In this study, in addition to phenotype description of the proband harboring a novel disease-causing variant in BBS10 gene, the spectrum of BBS symptoms was expanded. The findings of this study can be useful in genetic counseling, especially for risk estimation and prenatal diagnosis.

Identification of a Novel Homozygous Mutation in BBS10 Gene in an Iranian Family with Bardet-Biedl Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Bardet-Biedl Syndrome (BBS) is a rare pleiotropic autosomal recessive disease related to ciliopathies with approximately 25 causative genes. BBS is a multisystemic disorder with wide spectrum of manifestations including truncal obesity, retinal dystrophy, male hypogenitalism, postaxial polydactyly, learning difficulties, and renal abnormalities.

METHODS

A consanguineous Iranian family with a 28-year-old daughter affected with BBS, resulting from a first cousin marriage, was examined. After clinical examination, Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) was applied. Following the analysis of exome data, Sanger sequencing was used to confirm as well as to co-segregate the candidate variant with the phenotype.

RESULTS

A novel homozygous variant [c. 2035G>A (p.E679K)] in exon 2 of the BBS10 gene was found which was categorized as likely pathogenic based on American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines and criteria. In this study, the variant was fully co-segregated with the phenotype in the family.

CONCLUSION

Despite overlapping with other ciliopathies in terms of the phenotype, the BBS has high genetic heterogeneity and clinical variability even among affected members of a family. The symptoms observed in patients are largely related to the genes involved and the type of mutations in the BBS. In this study, in addition to phenotype description of the proband harboring a novel disease-causing variant in BBS10 gene, the spectrum of BBS symptoms was expanded. The findings of this study can be useful in genetic counseling, especially for risk estimation and prenatal diagnosis.

Shikonin ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) via immunomodulatory, anti-apoptotic and antioxidative activity

OBJECTIVES

Multiple sclerosis is a common autoimmune inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. There are several underlying mechanisms for the pathogenesis of the disease, including inflammation, oligodendrocyte apoptosis and oxidative stress.

METHODS

The mechanism of action of shikonin was investigated in the C57BL/6 experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of multiple sclerosis.

KEY FINDINGS

The results revealed that EAE induction significantly increased the extent of demyelination in the corpus callosum tissues of the animals, while treatment of the mice with shikonin significantly decreased the extent of demyelination. Real-time polymerase chain reaction-based analysis of the brain samples from the EAE mice revealed significant enhancement in the expression levels of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and Bax genes as well as a reduction in the expression levels of transforming growth factor-ß (TGF-β) and Bcl2. But, shikonin treatment significantly reduced the expression levels of TNF-α, IFN-γ and Bax. On the other hand, the expression levels of TGF-β and Bcl2 as well as the activity of glutathione peroxidase-1 (GPX-1) enzyme were significantly increased following the shikonin treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study emphasized the immune-modulatory and antioxidative effects of shikonin, which may have an important healing effect on the severity of EAE.

Novel Bi-allelic PDE6C Variant Leads to Congenital Achromatopsia

Background

The clinical phenotyping of patients with achromatopsia harboring variants in phosphordiesterase 6C (PDE6C) has poorly been described in the literature. PDE6C encodes the catalytic subunit of the cone phosphodiesterase, which hydrolyzes the cyclic guanosine monophosphate that proceeds with the hyperpolarization of photoreceptor cell membranes, as the final step of the phototransduction cascade.

Methods

In the current study, two patients from a consanguineous family underwent full ophthalmologic examination and molecular investigations including WES. The impact of the variant on the functionality of the protein has been analyzed using in silico molecular modeling.

Results

The patients identified with achromatopsia segregated a homozygous missense variant (c.C1775A:p.A592D) in PDE6C gene located on chromosome 10q23. Molecular modeling demonstrated that the variant would cause a protein conformational change and result in reduced phosphodiesterase activity.

Conclusion

Our data extended the phenotypic spectrum of retinal disorders caused by PDE6C variants and provided new clinical and genetic information on achromatopsia.

Comparing four laboratory three-parent techniques to construct human aged non-surrounded nucleolus germinal vesicle oocytes: A case-control study

Background

The three-parent assisted reproductive technique may increase oocyte competence.

Objective

In this case-control study, the suitability of germinal vesicle transfer (GVT), synchronous ooplasmic transfer (sOT), asynchronous ooplasmic transfer using cryopreserved MII oocyte (caOT), and asynchronous ooplasmic transfer using waste MII oocyte (waOT) for maturation of the human-aged non-surrounded nucleolus germinal vesicle-stage (NSN-GV) oocyte were investigated.

Materials and Methods

NSN-GV oocytes were subjected to four methods: group A (GVT), B (sOT), C (caOT) D (waOT), and E (Control). The fusion rates, MI, MII, ICSI observations and cleavage at 2-cell, 4-cell, and 8-cell stages were compared in the groups.

Results

In GVT, none of the oocytes fused. In sOT, all oocytes fused, 20 achieved the MI, 14 progressed to MII, 8 fertilized, 6 cleaved and 5, 4, and 3 achieved the 2-cells, 4-cells and 8-cells, respectively. In caOT, all oocytes fused and achieved the MI, 8 progressed to MII and fertilized, 6 cleaved and 6, 5, and 5 achieved the 2-cells, 4-cells, and 8-cells respectively. In waOT, all oocytes fused, 5 and 3 progressed to MI and MII, respectively, but only one fertilized, cleaved and reached a 4-cells stage. In group E, 6 and 2 oocytes progressed to MI and MII, respectively, and only one fertilized but arrested at the zygote stage. caOT had the highest survival rate when compared to sOT (p = 0.04), waOT (p = 0.002), and control (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The caOT method was beneficial over sOT, waOT, and GVT in supplementing the developmental capacity of human-aged NSN-GV oocytes.

Identification of PROS1 as a Novel Candidate Gene for Juvenile Retinitis Pigmentosa

Homozygous mutations of PROS1, encoding vitamin K-dependent protein S (PS), have been reported so far to be associated with purpura fulminans, a characteristic fatal venous thromboembolic disorder. The current work for the first time reports the clinical phenotype in patients with juvenile retinitis pigmentosa harboring a novel likely pathogenic variant in thePROS1 gene. Whole-exome sequencing was performed on probands of a cohort with inherited retinal disease. Detailed phenotyping was performed, including clinical evaluation, electroretinography, fundus photography and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Analysis of whole-exome and Sanger sequencing led to the identification of a homozygous missense substitution (c.G122C:p.R41P) in PROS1 in affected individuals from two unrelated consanguineous families of Persian origin which had classic retinitis pigmentosa with no history of venous thromboembolic disorder. This variant was segregated, fully congruous with the phenotype in all family members. Consistently, none of 1000 unrelated healthy individuals from the same population carried the mentioned variant, according to Iranian national genome database (Iranome) and additional in-house exome control data. This study provides inaugural clinical traces for different role of PS as a ligand for TAM receptor-mediated efferocytosis at the retinal pigmented epithelium; the R41P variant may affect proper folding of PS needed for γ-carboxylation and extra-cellular secretion. That conformational change may also lead to defective apoptotic cell phagocytosis resulting in postnatal degeneration of photoreceptors.

Genetic aspects of idiopathic asthenozoospermia as a cause of male infertility

Infertility is a worldwide problem affecting about 15% of couples trying to conceive. Asthenozoospermia (AZS) is one of the major causes of male infertility, diagnosed by reduced sperm motility, and has no effective therapeutic treatment. To date, a few genes have been found to be associated with AZS in humans and mice, but in most of cases its molecular aetiology remains unknown. Genetic causes of AZS may include chromosomal abnormalities, specific mutations of nuclear and mitochondrial genes. However recently, epigenetic factors, altered microRNAs expression signature, and proteomics have shed light on the pathophysiological basis of AZS. This review article summarises the reported genetic causes of AZS.

MiR-4485-3p expression reduced in spermatozoa of men with idiopathic asthenozoospermia

Asthenozoospermia (AZS), which characterised by reduced forward sperm motility, is a common cause of male infertility. Recently, mitochondrial dysfunction reported in AZS men came to attention for finding the molecular aetiology of AZS. Mitochondria-related microRNAs (miRNAs) are the most important regulators of mitochondrial function through post-transcriptionally modulation of gene expression. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the expression of four recently reported mitochondrial-related miRNAs (miR-4485-3p/4484/4461 and 4463) in the sperm sample of asthenozoospermic men. RNA was extracted from spermatozoa of 74 volunteers (39 patients with idiopathic AZS and 35 controls with normal fertility), and relative gene expression analysis was performed by quantitative PCR. We used SNORD48 as a normaliser gene, and quantification was calculated by 2^-ΔΔCt method. The expression of miR-4484 and miR-4461 was not detected in the spermatozoa of cases and controls. However, miR-4485-3p (p = .006) was significantly downregulated in the AZS men compared with the controls, but the miR-4463 expression was not significantly different between the two groups (p = .5). Bioinformatic analysis identified three target genes for miR-4485-3p (DNAH1, KIT and PARK7) that are related to male infertility. In conclusion, the downregulation of miR-4485-3p was associated with idiopathic AZS, which could be a molecular link between mitochondrial dysfunction and AZS.

Interleukin 1 alpha (IL1A) polymorphisms and risk of endometriosis in Iranian population: a case-control study

Endometriosis is one of the most common gynecological diseases and a major cause of pain and infertility. It is influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Recently, genome-wide association studies have revealed a strong association between IL1A single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and increased risk of endometriosis in Japanese women. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the association of three IL1A SNPs, rs17561, rs1304037, and rs2856836 with the risk of endometriosis in Iranian population. Totally, 105 women with diagnosis of endometriosis and 102 healthy women as control group were included. Three SNPs of the IL1A, rs17561 G/T, rs1304037 A/G, and rs2856836 T/C, were genotyped by PCR and RFLP. The rs2856836 TC genotype was significantly higher (p = .002; OR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.5-6.5) in the patients (28.1%) than the control group (12.7%). The rs2856836 CC genotype was significantly higher (p = .047; OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.0-5.3) in the patients (17.5%) than the control group (10.8%). The rs2856836 C allele was significantly higher (p = .001; OR = 2.2, 95% CI: 1.4-3.6) in the patients (31.6%) than the control group (17.2%). The IL1A rs2856836 T/C SNP was associated with susceptibility to endometriosis and the rs2856836 C allele may increase the risk of endometriosis in Iranian women.

RPE65 and retinal dystrophy: Report of new and recurrent mutations

BACHGROUND

Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) is a severe and congenital or early onset form of inherited retinitis pigmentosa (RP). To date, approximately 25 genes have been introduced in relation to LCA. In this regard, retinal pigment epithelium-specific 65 kDa (RPE65) is a well-known gene mutation that plays a role in the pathogenesis of 5-10% of LCA cases.

METHOS

Two individuals fromseparate families were subjected to ehole exome sequencing (WES). Causativevariants were searched further assessed using Sanger sequencing.

RESULTS

Here, two families with mutations in the RPE65 gene show severe and early onset LCA, as expected. In addition to the characterization of the phenotype, by reporting a new mutation (c.1451-1G>A), we further expand the mutation spectrum of RPE65. Likewise, as an interesting aspect of our study, we report on a previously reported RP-linked mutation associated with severe early onset LCA (c.T200G:p.L67R).

CONCLUSIONS

Considering this variant in different populations, it is likely that it represents a hotspot and affects the function of the coded protein. The variable expressivity of the phenotype can be assumed by the presence of the modifier allele(s) as a result of a different genetic background or the effect of different environments on phenotype expression.

Methylation Analysis of P16, RASSF1A, RPRM, and RUNX3 in Circulating Cell-Free DNA for Detection of Gastric Cancer: A Validation Study

BACKGROUND

Most of Gastric Cancer (GC) patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage with poor prognosis. Hypermethylations of several tumor suppressor genes in cell-free DNA of GC patients have been previously reported. In this study, an attempt was made to investigate the methylation status of P16, RASSF1A, RPRM, and RUNX3 and their potentials for early diagnosis of GC.

METHODS

Methylation status of the four tumor suppressor genes in 96 plasma samples from histopathologically confirmed gastric adenocarcinoma patients (Stage I-IV) and 88 healthy controls was determined using methylation-specific PCR method. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was performed and Area Under the Curve (AUC) was calculated. Two tailed p<0.05 were considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

Methylated P16, RASSF1A, RPRM, and RUNX3 were significantly higher in the GC patients (41.7, 33.3, 66.7, and 58.3%) compared to the controls (15.9, 0.0, 6.8, and 4.5%), respectively (p<0.001). Stratification of patients showed that RPRM (AUC: 0.70, Sensitivity: 0.47, Specificity: 0.93, and p<0.001) and RUNX3 (AUC: 0.77, Sensitivity: 0.59, Specificity: 0.95, and p<0.001) had the highest performances in detection of early-stage (I+II) GC. The combined methylation of RPRM and RUNX3 in detection of early-stage GC had a higher AUC of 0.88 (SE=0.042; 95% CI:0.793-0.957; p<0.001), higher sensitivity of 0.82 and reduced specificity of 0.89.

CONCLUSION

Methylation analysis of RPRM and RUNX3 in circulating cell free-DNA of plasma could be suggested as a potential biomarker for detection of GC in early-stages.

Iranome: A catalog of genomic variations in the Iranian population

Considering the application of human genome variation databases in precision medicine, population-specific genome projects are continuously being developed. However, the Middle Eastern population is underrepresented in current databases. Accordingly, we established Iranome database (www.iranome.com) by performing whole exome sequencing on 800 individuals from eight major Iranian ethnic groups representing the second largest population of Middle East. We identified 1,575,702 variants of which 308,311 were novel (19.6%). Also, by presenting higher frequency for 37,384 novel or known rare variants, Iranome database can improve the power of molecular diagnosis. Moreover, attainable clinical information makes this database a good resource for classifying pathogenicity of rare variants. Principal components analysis indicated that, apart from Iranian-Baluchs, Iranian-Turkmen, and Iranian-Persian Gulf Islanders, who form their own clusters, rest of the population were genetically linked, forming a super-population. Furthermore, only 0.6% of novel variants showed counterparts in "Greater Middle East Variome Project", emphasizing the value of Iranome at national level by releasing a comprehensive catalog of Iranian genomic variations and also filling another gap in the catalog of human genome variations at international level. We introduce Iranome as a resource which may also be applicable in other countries located in neighboring regions historically called Greater Iran (Persia).

The effect of paternal age on semen quality and fertilization outcome in men with normal sperm DNA compaction, reactive oxygen species, and total antioxidant capacity levels

OBJECTIVE

Studies showed a decrease of the semen analysis parameters and an increase in the average age of first-time fathers over the past several decades. The aim of the present study was to assess the influence of paternal age on semen quality and fertilization outcomes in men with normal sperm DNA fragmentation and chromatin maturation index (DFI and CMI), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study was performed on 70 men with their wife's age ≤38 years and normal sperm DFI, CMI, ROS, and TAC levels. None of the couples had a history of genital inflammation, chronic diseases, endocrine abnormality, chromosomal aberrations, Y chromosome microdeletion, azoospermia, and leukocytospermia. These men were separated into 2 groups according to their age (group A: age <45 years and group B: age ≥45 years). Semen analysis and fertilization outcome after using the intracytoplasmic sperm injection were assessed in both groups.

RESULT

Sperm concentration showed a significant reduction in group B (p=0.04). Although semen volume, sperm normal morphology, and progressive motility were decreased in group B, the reduction was not significant when compared with group A (p=0.09, p=0.47, and p=0.77, respectively). In addition, the differences of embryo quality with grades A, B, and C and 8-cell embryo formation were not statistically significant between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrated that in men with normal sperm DFI, CMI, ROS, and TAC levels, there were no significant changes in semen parameters and fertilization outcomes with an increasing age.

A panel of noncoding RNAs in non-small-cell lung cancer

Non-small-lung cancer (NSCLC) is the leading cause of cancer death. Early detection of NSCLC could pave the way for effective therapies. Analysis of molecular genetic biomarkers in biological fluids has been proposed as a useful tool for cancer diagnosis. Here, we aimed to develop a panel of noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) in sputum for NSCLC early detection. Expression of 11 ncRNAs were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction in sputum samples of 30 NSCLC patients and 30 sex- and age-matched cancer-free controls. Stability of endogenous microRNAs (miRNAs) in sputum was evaluated after 3 and 6 days at 4°C, 6 months, and 1 year at -80°C. Nine ncRNAs showed significant differences of their expression in sputum between NSCLC patients and controls. A logistic regression model with the best prediction was built based on miR-145, miR-126, and miR-7. The composite of the three miRNAs produced 90% sensitivity and specificity in distinguishing NSCLC patients from the controls. Results indicate that miRNAs could be useful biomarkers based on their stability under various storage conditions and maintain differential changes between cancer and control groups. Moreover, measurement of miRNAs in sputum could be a noninvasive approach for detection of lung cancer.

Curcumin ameliorates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis in a C57BL/6 mouse model

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common inflammatory disease of the central nervous system. Although the exact etiology of the disease is largely unknown, it is identified that cytokines may play an important role in the pathogenesis of MS. In this study, the effects of curcumin has been investigated on the expression levels of selected cytokine coding genes as well as the extent of demyelination in the corpus callosum of C57BL/6 experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of MS. Gene expression analyses revealed that treatment with curcumin could lead to a significant reduction in the expression levels of pro-inflammatory cytokine coding genes including IL-6 (p = 0.001), IL-17 (p = 0.001), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (p = 0.008), and interferon (IFN)-γ (p = 0.033) as well as a significant increase in the expression level of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β (p = 0.006) as an anti-inflammatory cytokine. Moreover, the expression of glutathione peroxidase (GPX)-1 gene and the activity of anti-oxidant enzymes were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in curcumin-treated mice. Luxol fast blue staining also confirmed a significant reduction in the extent of demyelination in the curcumin-treated group (p < 0.001). Our results have confirmed that curcumin is an effective therapeutic agent that could ameliorate the severity of EAE.

MFSD8 gene mutations; evidence for phenotypic heterogeneity

BACKGROUND

Cone-rod dystrophies are a group of genetically and phenotypically heterogeneous inherited degenerative retinal diseases primarily affecting macular and cone system function. MFSD8 loss-of-function variants are mainly related to the variant late-infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses which present with progressive motor and mental regression in combination with seizures, ataxia, and visual impairment.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Clinical examination and genomic DNA extraction were collected from two unrelated Iranian families presenting with autosomal recessive cone-rod dystrophy. The candidate disease-causing variant was screened with whole-exome sequencing and bioinformatics analyses. Sanger sequencing was used for validation and co-segregation analysis.

RESULTS

Two previously reported variants (c.1361T>C; p.M454T and c.1235C>T; p.P412L) and in a compound heterozygous pattern in one family and a homozygous variant (c.1361T>C; p.M454T) identical to one of the variants in the first family in MFSD8 gene were identified. Both confirmed by Sanger sequencing and co-segregated with disease status.

CONCLUSIONS

Here and for the first time, we reported on two previously variant late-infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses-associated variants in MFSD8 but in association with a form of cone-rod dystrophy known as non-syndromic macular dystrophy with central cone involvement. Our results support this concept that variant late-infantile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses and non-syndromic macular dystrophy with central cone involvement are not different disease entities, but rather allelic diseases and phenotypic variants of the same mutation. Consideration of the milder MFSD8 phenotypes is important against the potentially severe consequences of life-threatening conditions associated with MFSD8 mutations in order to prevent the danger of misdiagnosis as well as the accuracy of genetic counseling.

Reactive oxygen species-induced alterations in H19-Igf2 methylation patterns, seminal plasma metabolites, and semen quality

PURPOSE

This study was conducted in order to investigate the effects of reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels on the seminal plasma (SP) metabolite milieu and sperm dysfunction.

METHODS

Semen specimens of 151 normozoospermic men were analyzed for ROS by chemiluminescence and classified according to seminal ROS levels [in relative light units (RLU)/s/106 sperm]: group 1 (n = 39): low (ROS < 20), group 2 (n = 38): mild (20 ≤ ROS < 40), group 3 (n = 31): moderate (40 ≤ ROS < 60), and group 4 (n = 43): high (ROS ≥ 60). A comprehensive analysis of SP and semen parameters, including conventional semen characteristics, measurement of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI), chromatin maturation index (CMI), H19-Igf2 methylation status, and untargeted seminal metabolic profiling using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR), was carried out.

RESULT(S)

The methylation status of H19 and Igf2 was significantly different in specimens with high ROS (P < 0.005). Metabolic fingerprinting of these SP samples showed upregulation of trimethylamine N-oxide (P < 0.001) and downregulations of tryptophan (P < 0.05) and tyrosine/tyrosol (P < 0.01). High ROS significantly reduced total sperm motility (P < 0.05), sperm concentration (P < 0.001), and seminal TAC (P < 0.001) but increased CMI and DFI (P < 0.005). ROS levels have a positive correlation with Igf2 methylation (r = 0.19, P < 0.05), DFI (r = 0.40, P < 0.001), CMI (r = 0.39, P < 0.001), and trimethylamine N-oxide (r = 0.45, P < 0.05) and a negative correlation with H19 methylation (r = - 0.20, P < 0.05), tryptophan (r = - 0.45, P < 0.05), sperm motility (r = - 0.20, P < 0.05), sperm viability (r = - 0.23, P < 0.01), and sperm concentration (r = - 0.30, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION(S)

Results showed significant correlation between ROS levels and H19-Igf2 gene methylation as well as semen parameters. These findings are critical to identify idiopathic male infertility and its management through assisted reproduction technology (ART).

A new hereditary colorectal cancer network in the Middle East and eastern mediterranean countries to improve care for high-risk families

Colorectal cancer (CRC) has a very high incidence in the western world. Data from registries in the Middle East showed that the incidence of CRC is relatively low in these countries. However, these data also showed that CRC incidence has increased substantially over the past three decades and that a high proportion of cases are diagnosed at an early age (<50 years). In view of these findings, more attention should be paid to prevention. Because of the often limited financial resources, focused screening of individuals with hereditary CRC, in particular those with Lynch syndrome, appears to be the most cost-effective strategy. During recent meetings of the Palestinian Society of Gastroenterology and the Mediterranean Task force for Cancer Control (MTCC) in Jericho, and the Patient’s Friends Society of Jerusalem in Hebron the issue of hereditary CRC in the Middle East was discussed and the idea was conceived to establish a network on hereditary colorectal cancer (HCCN-ME) with the goal of improving care for high-risk groups in the Middle East and (Eastern) Mediterranean Countries.

The Association between TNF-alpha Gene Polymorphisms and Endometriosis in An Iranian Population

Background

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is an important cytokine in acute inflammatory response to infective factors. Based on investigation in different populations, it is thought that this response increases in patients with endometrio- sis due to the presence of cytokines such as TNF-α. This study aimed to examine the association of four TNF-α polymor- phisms, namely -238G/A, -308G/A, -857C/T and -863C/A, with susceptibility to endometriosis in an Iranian population.

Materials and Methods

We recruited 150 women with endometriosis and 150 women without endometriosis in this case-control study and collected 4 ml of blood from all subjects. After DNA extraction, the polymorphisms were geno- typed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP).

Results

The allele frequency of TNF-α -863C/A in the case and control groups showed a significant difference [odds ratios (OR)=0.64, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.41-0.99, P=0.047] but the result is not significant when Adjust- ing for multiple testing (P=0.188). No significant difference in the allele frequencies of -238G/A (OR=1.07, 95% CI=0.51-2.25, P=0.862), -308G/A (OR=0.79, 95% CI=0.43-1.45, P=0.438) and -857C/T (OR=1.03, 95% CI=0.66- 1.61, P=0.887) was observed. We adjusted all four polymorphism genotypes by age and body mass index (BMI), however, no significant difference was detected. There was an association between the case and control and BMI when adjusting by age (OR=1.082, 95% CI=1.009-1.162, P=0.028).

Conclusion

For the first time the association of the four polymorphisms in the promoter region of the TNF-α gene with endometriosis has been conducted in women of Iranian origin. The present research reveals the -863 A allele may play a role in incidence of endometriosis among Iranian women. Development of endometriosis among those people with -863 A allele seems low. According to the results, the current study indicates that there might be a correlation between BMI and progression of endometriosis.

Correlation between important genes of mTOR pathway (PI3K and KIT) in Iranian women with sporadic breast cancer

Background: PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway is a crucial pathway in the angiogenesis, tumour growth and cell differentiation of several cancers. The PI3K and KIT genes are key genes of this pathway. Previous studies have reported the importance of these genes in the development of gastrointestinal carcinoma, leukaemia, and melanomas. The role of mutations and overexpression of PI3K and KIT genes in breast cancer has been previously proved. This study investigates the correlation between PI3K and KIT gene mutations in sporadic breast cancer. Methods: Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification (MLPA) technique was used to determine the Copy Number Variation (CNV) of PI3K and KIT genes in 34 breast cancer tumours and PCR-sequencing was used to detect the mutation in PI3K exons 9 and 20. Results: Our results reported that 27% of patients had CNV of the KIT gene; whereas, 20% and 17.5% of patients, had mutation and CNV in the PI3K gene, respectively. We did not found a significant correlation between the mutations of PI3K and KIT genes. Conclusion: About two-tenth of the patients revealed CNV and lesser than two-tenth indicated mutation in the PI3K gene, whereas one-third of the patients demonstrated CNV in the KIT gene. Thus, administration of the PI3K and KIT gene inhibitor drugs might be proposed to suppress breast cancer in patients with mutation and CNV of each of these individual genes.

An overview of microRNAs: Biology, functions, therapeutics, and analysis methods

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small noncoding RNAs, which function in posttranscriptional regulation of gene expression. They are powerful regulators of various cellular activities including cell growth, differentiation, development, and apoptosis. They have been linked to many diseases, and currently miRNA-mediated clinical trial has shown promising results for treatment of cancer and viral infection. This review provides an overview and update on miRNAs biogenesis, regulation of miRNAs expression, their biological functions, and role of miRNAs in epigenetics and cell-cell communication. In addition, alteration of miRNAs following exercise, their association with diseases, and therapeutic potential will be explained. Finally, miRNA bioinformatics tools and conventional methods for miRNA detection and quantification will be discussed.

Yoga Can Improve Assisted Reproduction Technology Outcomes in Couples With Infertility

CONTEXT

Depending on the cause of the infertility, nonsurgical or surgical treatments may be used to treat men and women with infertility. Despite improved outcomes due to medical advances, assisted reproductive technology (ART) for couples with infertility is sometimes unsuccessful. Success may be affected by the patient's social, psychological, and physical status.

OBJECTIVE

The study examined the effects of yoga-including asanas (yoga poses), pranayama (proper breathing), shavasana, and meditation-on male and female fertility and ART outcomes.

DESIGN

The research team performed a literature review, electronically searching for articles published between January 1978 and January 2016 in the PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar databases.

SETTING

The study took place at the Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center at the Avicenna Research Institute at the Academic Center for Education, Culture, and Research (Tehran, Iran).

PARTICIPANTS

Participants were couples with infertility taking part in 87 reviewed studies.

INTERVENTION

Yoga was the intervention.

OUTCOME MEASURES

The outcome measures comprised fertility factors in males and females, fertility rate, and ART success rate.

RESULTS

The reviewed studies showed that yoga can provide stress management for patients with infertility, with beneficial effects on fertility, helping couples give birth. They found that yoga also could reduce pain; decrease depression, anxiety, and stress; reduce the rate of assisted vaginal delivery; and improve fetal outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Yoga can help couples overcome infertility and increase the ART success rate by improving the physiological and psychological states of both men and women.

Effects of Ectoine on Behavior and Candidate Genes Expression in ICV-STZ Rat Model of Sporadic Alzheimer's Disease

Purpose: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is pathologically defined by the presence of amyloid plaques and tangles in the brain, therefore, any drug or compound with potential effect on lowering amyloid plaques, could be noticed for AD management especially in the primary phases of the disease. Ectoine constitutes a group of small molecule chaperones (SMCs). SMCs inhibit proteins and other changeable macromolecular structures misfolding from environmental stresses. Ectoine has been reported successfully prohibit insulin amyloid formation in vitro. Methods: We selected eight genes, DAXX, NFκβ, VEGF, PSEN1, MTAP2, SYP, MAPK3 and TNFα genes which had previously showed significant differential expression in Alzheimer human brain and STZ- rat model. We considered the neuroprotective efficacy by comparing the expression of candidate genes levels in the hippocampus of rat model of Sopradic Alzheimer's disease (SAD), using qPCR in compound-treated and control groups as well as therapeutic effects at learning and memory levels by using Morris Water Maze (MWM) test. Results: Our results showed significant down-regulation of Syp, Mapk3 and Tnfα and up-regulation of Vegf in rat's hippocampus after treatment with ectoine comparing to the STZ-induced group. In MWM, there was no significant change in swimming distance and time for finding the hidden platform in treated comparing to STZ-induced group. In addition, it wasn't seen significant change in compound-treated comparing to STZ-induced and control groups in memory level. Conclusion: It seems this compound may have significant effect on expression level of some AD- related genes but not on clinical levels.

Arylamine N-acetyltransferase 2 Polymorphisms and the Risk of Endometriosis

BACKGROUND

Human arylamine N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) gene has a key role in xenobiotic metabolism through the conjugation of acetyl group to xenobiotic substances. NAT2 has been suggested as a susceptibility factor in endometriosis; however, the results of studies have been controversial. In this study, the association of NAT2 polymorphisms with susceptibility to endometriosis was evaluated in an Iranian population.

METHODS

This is an association study and totally 141 women with diagnosis of endometriosis and 158 healthy women as control group were analyzed for NAT2 gene polymorphisms (C481T, A803G, G857A and G590A) by PCR-RFLP methods.

RESULTS

The 590 GA genotype was significantly lower (p=0.001; OR=0.42, 95% CI: 0.25-0.71) in the patients (38.3%) than the control group (55.1%). The 590A allele was significantly lower (p=0.033; OR=0.69, 95% CI: 0.49-0.79) in the patients (31.2%) compared with the controls (39.6%). Analysis of haplotypes showed that NAT2 481C, 803A, 590A, 587A combination was significantly different between the case and control women (p= 0.029; OR=3.11, 95% CI: 1.13-8.52).

CONCLUSION

The NAT2 G590A SNP may be associated with susceptibility to endometriosis and the 590A allele may have a protective role in development of endometriosis. The NAT2 481C, 803A, 590A, 587A haplotype was associated with a higher risk of endometriosis in Iranian population.

Association of the WNT3 Variations and the Risk of Non-Syndromic Cleft Lip and Palate in a Population of Iranian Infants

BACKGROUND

Nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCL/P) is the most common orofacial birth defect, often attributed to ethnic and environmental differences. Up to now, linkage analyses and genome-wide association studies have identified several genomic susceptibility regions for NSCL/P. The WNT genes including WNT3 are strong candidates for NSCL/P, since they are involved in regulating mid-face development and upper lip fusion. This study tested association of the WNT3 polymorphisms, rs-3809857 G/T and rs9890413 G/A, with the risk of NSCL/P in a population of Iranian infants.

METHODS

The allelic and genotypic frequencies for each participant were determined in 113 unrelated Iranian subjects with NSCL/P and 220 control subjects using PCR and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) methods. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

The WNT3 rs3809857 GT genotype was significantly lower (p=0.039, OR=0.55, 95% CI=0.30-0.97) in the NSCL/P (21.2%) than the control group (30.42%). For the WNT3 rs9890413 G/A polymorphism, neither genotype nor allele frequencies were significantly different between the case and control groups.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that the WNT3 rs3809857 GT genotype may have a protective effect against NSCL/P in Iranian population.

Interaction Effect of RsaI and BamHI Polymorphisms of TGFα, BMP2 and BMP4 on the Occurrence of Non-Syndromic Cleft Lip and Palate in Iranian Patients

BACKGROUND

Orofacial cleft is the most common congenital defect of the maxillofacial region. Its non-syndromic type is multi-factorial, and several genes are involved in its occurrence. This study aimed to assess the interaction effect of Rsal and BamHI polymorphisms of Transforming Growth Factor-alpha (TGFα) gene and Bone Morphogenetic Protein-2 (BMP2) and BMP4 variants on the occurrence of Non-Syndromic Cleft Lip and Palate (NSCLP) in the Iranian population.

METHODS

This case-control study was conducted on 120 children with NSCLP and 215 healthy children. Genotyping of the TGFA/BamHI (rs11466297), TGFA/RsaI (rs37322-48), BMP4 (rs17563) and BMP2 (rs235768) was performed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) methods. Logistic regression was applied to determine the effective factors and the interaction effect of different variants on the occurrence of NSCLP.

RESULTS

Gender of patients had no significant association with the occurrence of NSCLP (p=0.335). Multiple logistic regression showed that the interaction effect of the aforementioned polymorphisms on the occurrence of NSCLP was not statistically significant (p=1.000).

CONCLUSION

Although the individual effect of each of the BMP4, BMP2, RsaI and BamHI variants on the occurrence of NSCLP in the Iranian population has been previously confirmed, their interaction does not play a role in this respect.

Clinically Significant Dysregulation of hsa-miR-30d-5p and hsa-let-7b Expression in Patients with Surgically Resected Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

The cyclin E2 (CYCE2) is an important regulator in the progression and development of NSCLC, and its ectopic expression promoted the proliferation, invasion, and migration in several tumors, including Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC). However, the upregulation of CYCE2 in NSCLC cells suggested that it has a key role in tumorigenicity. In addition, the RAS family proteins as oncoproteins were activated in many major tumor types and its suitability as the therapeutic target in NSCLC was proposed. Considering the crucial role of microRNAs, it was hypothesized that altered expression of hsa-miR-30d-5p and hsa-let-7b might provide a reliable diagnostic tumor marker for diagnosis of NSCLC.

METHOD

Real-time RT-PCR approach could evaluate the expression alteration of hsa-miR-30d-5p and hsa-let-7b and it was related to the surgically resected tissue of 24 lung cancer patients and 10 non-cancerous patients. The miRNAs expression was associated with clinicopathological features of the patients.

RESULTS

Hsa-miR-30d showed a significant downregulation (p=0.0382) in resected tissue of NSCLC patients compared with control group. Its expression level could differentiate different stages of malignancies from each other. The ROC curve analysis gave it an AUC=0.73 (p=0.037) which was a good score as a reliable biomarker. In contrast, hsa-let-7b was significantly overexpressed in tumor samples (p=0.03). Interestingly, our findings revealed a significant association of hsa-let-7b in adenocarcinoma tumors, compared to Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCC) (p<0.05). Also, analysis of ROC curve of hsa-let-7b (AUC=0.74, p-value=0.042) suggests that it could be as a suitable biomarker for NSCLC.

CONCLUSION

Together, these results suggest a possible tumor suppressor role for hsa-miR-30d in lung tumor progression and initiation. Moreover, upregulation of hsa-let-7b was associated with the tumor type.

The study of association between reduced folate carrier 1 (RFC1) polymorphism and non-syndromic cleft lip/palate in Iranian population

Introduction: Cleft lip/palate is one of the most common congenital defects and is supposed to have multifactorial etiology, including a complex interaction between genetics and environment. Reduced folate carrier 1 (RFC1) gene takes part in folate transportation within the cells. In this study, the association of A80G polymorphism in the RFC1 gene with the non-syndromic cleft lip/palate (nsCL/P) was investigated in Iranian infants for the first time. Methods: In this case-control survey, 122 Iranian infants with nsCL/P and 164 healthy infants were investigated for RFC1 polymorphism by PCR and RFLP methods. The results were statistically compared with control group, odds ratios with 95% CI were estimated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression model and a P <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The RFC1 G allele was significantly higher (P=0.001; OR=7, 95% CI: 4.7-10.2) in the cases (60.3%) compared with the controls (17.9%). Not only the RFC1 AG genotype was significantly higher (P<0.001; OR=44, 95% CI: 14.6-133) in cases (67.8%) than the controls (27.4%), but also GG genotype (P<0.001; OR=85, 95% CI: 20.5-352) was much higher in cases (26.4%) than the controls (4.3%). Conclusion: Our study indicated that the RFC1 (A80G) polymorphism was associated with the nsCL/P in Iranian population. Moreover, 80GG homozygosity was significant in the cases. The presence of G allele can be considered as a risk factor for the nsCL/P. Infants with the GG and AG genotypes were more prone to cleft lip/palate as compared to the AA ones. This finding emphasizes the role of RFC1 gene and the intracellular levels of folate.

Association of glutathione S-transferases M1, P1 and T1 variations and risk of late-onset Alzheimer's disease

OBJECTIVE

Late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a genetically heterogeneous neurodegenerative disorder. Associations of the glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) polymorphisms with the risk factors for AD have not been definitely confirmed. We investigated the association of GSTM1 and GSTT1 null deletion and GSTP1 313 A/G polymorphisms and the risk of AD in an Iranian population.

METHODS

The case group consisted of 280 individuals with AD and the control group included 168 age-matched healthy individuals. The genotyping of the GSTP1 polymorphism was determined by PCR-RFLP and the GSTM1 and GSTT1 deletions were done by multiplex PCR method.

RESULTS

The GSTP1 AG genotype was significantly lower (p = 0.005; OR = 0.57, 95% CI: 0.38-0.84) in the patients (41.1%) than the control group (56.5%). The GSTM1 null genotype was significantly higher (p < 0.001) in the patients (40.5%) than the control group (15.8%). The GSTT1 null genotype was significantly higher (p < 0.038) in the patients (31.2%) than the control group (21.5%). The patients homozygous for the GSTM1 and GSTT1 null alleles showed a 3.5 and 1.5-fold increased risk of AD, respectively. There were interaction between GSTP1 AG genotype and absence of APOE e4 allele (p = 0.001), as well as presence of APOE ε4 and GSTM1 null genotype (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that GSTM1 and GSTT1 null deletions may be associated with susceptibility to AD and people with APOE e4 and GSTM1 null deletion have a higher increased risk for Late-onset AD in Iranian population.

Association Study of Transforming Growth Factor Alpha TaqI Polymorphism and the Risk of Cleft Lip and/or Palate in an Iranian Population

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study is to evaluate the association of TGFA TaqI polymorphism with nonsyndromic cleft lip and/or palate (NSCLP) in an Iranian population.

METHODS

In this case-control study, 113 children with NSCLP and 209 controls were included. Genotyping of the TaqI polymorphism was performed by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism methods. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

For the TGFA TaqI polymorphism, the distributions of genotypes in the NSCLP (p = 0.810) and control group (p = 0.422) were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. There was no statistically significant difference in the genotype distribution (p = 0.059) and allele frequency (p = 0.065) of the TGFA TaqI polymorphism in the NSCLP and control groups.

CONCLUSION

TGFA TaqI polymorphism was not associated with the risk of NSCLP in Iranian children. Birth Defects Research 109:1386-1389, 2017.© 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Ooplasmic transfer in human oocytes: efficacy and concerns in assisted reproduction

BACKGROUND

Ooplasmic transfer (OT) technique or cytoplasmic transfer is an emerging technique with relative success, having a significant status in assisted reproduction. This technique had effectively paved the way to about 30 healthy births worldwide. Though OT has long been invented, proper evaluation of the efficacy and risks associated with this critical technique has not been explored properly until today. This review thereby put emphasis upon the applications, efficacy and adverse effects of OT techniques in human.

MAIN BODY

Available reports published between January 1982 and August 2017 has been reviewed and the impact of OT on assisted reproduction was evaluated. The results consisted of an update on the efficacy and concerns of OT, the debate on mitochondrial heteroplasmy, apoptosis, and risk of genetic and epigenetic alteration.

SHORT CONCLUSION

The application of OT technique in humans demands more clarity and further development of this technique may successfully prove its utility as an effective treatment for oocyte incompetence.

Reconstruction of mammalian oocytes by germinal vesicle transfer: A systematic review

Nuclear transfer procedures have been recently applied for clinical and research targets as a novel assisted reproductive technique and were used for increasing the oocyte activity during its growth and maturation. In this review, we summarized the nuclear transfer technique for germinal vesicle stage oocytes to reconstruct the maturation of them. Our study covered publications between 1966 and August 2017. In result utilized germinal vesicle transfer techniques, fusion, and fertilization survival rate on five different mammalian species are discussed, regarding their potential clinical application. It seems that with a study on this method, there is real hope for effective treatments of old oocytes or oocytes containing mitochondrial problems in the near future.