Characteristics of RNA Stabilizer RNApro for Peripheral Blood Collection

Peripheral blood is the most practical tissue for human immune system gene expression profiling because it is easily accessible, whereas the site of primary infection in certain diseases may not be easily accessible. Due to the ex vivo instability of RNA transcripts, a key challenge in the gene expression analysis of blood samples is the rapid sample handling and stabilization of the mRNA by adding an RNA preservative (PAXgeneTM Blood RNA Tubes, TempusTM Blood RNA tubes, RNAlater Stabilization Reagent, RNAgard® Blood Tubes). BioMole (Turin, Italy) has developed a novel blood stabilizer, called RNApro, in which RNA is stabilized during phlebotomy and sample storage. In this study, RNApro performance intended as RNA yield, integrity, and stability was evaluated. Our results show that blood samples stored at -80 °C and re-extracted after 7 years show no differences in terms of quantity, quality, and amplificability. The samples in the RNAlater stabilization solution can be stored at room temperature for up to one week or at 4 °C for up to one month. Similar results can also be observed for PAXgene tubes, Tempus tubes, and RNAgard tubes. In agreement with these data, the RNApro stabilization solution preserves the RNA from degradation for up to 1 month at 4 °C and 1 week at room temperature. RNApro can be stored indifferently at -80, -20, 4 °C, or room temperature for up to 2 months after, and then could be stored at -80 °C for up to seven years. In summary, our study is the first to analyze the performance of an RNA stabilizer called RNApro. We can conclude that several studies have shown significant differences in gene expression analysis when the sample was preserved in different RNA stabilizers. Therefore, it is desirable to standardize the method of nucleic acid conservation when comparing data from transcriptomic analyses.

Nasopharyngeal and Peripheral Blood Type II Interferon Signature Evaluation in Infants during Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection

Background and Objectives: In this study, we applied one-step real time rt-PCR technology type II INF signature to blood and nasopharyngeal (NPS) swabs of acute early recovery children < 1 years hospitalized for bronchiolitis with laboratory-confirmed RSV infection. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational case-control study was conducted in 2021-2022. The study took place in Children Hospital "Regina Margherita", Torino Italy. The study included 66 infants, of which 30 patients were hospitalized for bronchiolitis due to RSV infection and 36 age-matched controls. Inclusion criteria included a positive RSV test for infants with bronchiolitis. We collected peripheral blood and nasopharyngeal swabs for relative quantification of type II Interferon signature by One-Step Multiplex PCR real time. Results: IFN levels were downregulated in the peripheral blood of bronchiolitis patients; these data were not confirmed in the nasopharyngeal swab. There was no correlation between NPS and the type II IFN score in peripheral blood. Conclusions: our study shows for the first time that type II IFN score was significant reduced in peripheral blood of infants with bronchiolitis by RSV compared to age-matched healthy controls; in the NPS swab this resulted downregulation was not statistically significant and the type II IFN score in the NPS swab can be used as marker of resolution of infection or improvement of clinical conditions.

Evaluation of the FCGR2B polymorphism in children with immune thrombocytopenia

BACKGROUND

Childhood immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an immune-mediated disease characterized by an isolated low platelet count. Pathogenesis of ITP is complex but many patients have platelet specific autoantibodies leading to accelerated clearance of opsonized platelets by Fc-gamma receptor (FcγR) bearing phagocytes, particularly in the spleen. In humans, there are three main types of Fcγ receptors: high-affinity FcγRI and low-affinity FcγRII and FcγRIII. About FcγRII, genetic variation of FCGR2B is associated with response to IVIg treatment in patients with Kawasaki disease and ITP.

METHODS

We used a TaqMAMA genotyping assay for detection of rs1050501 FCGR2B polymorphism in children with chronic ITP. A SNP rs1050501 (GenBank access number NG_023318.1, Homo sapiens Fc fragment of IgG receptor IIb [FCGR2B]) on chromosome 1 showing a T/C transition in position 15894 on FCGRB2 gene was chosen in this study. A series of experiments was conducted to evaluate the performance of the FCGR2B-MAMAPCR real time on a QuantStudio™ 5 Real-Time PCR System as compared to the 7500 Real-Time PCR System.

RESULTS

Background noise, genotypes discrimination, variability, allele and genotype frequencies and concordance were obtained. About clinical validation, all 60 samples collected from chronic ITP patients were analyzed. We found 53 on the 60 patients (88.4%) were homozygotes (52 TT and 1 CC) and 7/60 (11.6%) heterozygotes (TC).

CONCLUSIONS

The ability of the FCGR2B-MAMAPCR real time to detect rs1050501 FCGR2B polymorphism in children with chronic ITP on the QuantStudio™ 5 System is comparable to that on the 7500 System.

Leptin and Leptin Receptor Polymorphisms in Infants and Their Parents: Correlation with Preterm Birth

It has been proven that single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in LEP and LEPR genes could predispose individuals to an increased risk of pregnancy adverse outcomes (PAOs) such as recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) and pre-eclampsia. Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of infant mortality. We decided to investigate the correlation between PTB and LEP and LEPR SNPs. The study cohort included families who underwent spontaneous PTB and control samples of families who had at-term-born (≥37 weeks of gestational age) children. Swabs were performed by rubbing the sticky end for about 30 s on the gum and on the inside of the cheek, allowing us to collect the flaking cells of the oral mucosa. Genotyping of the three SNPs-LEPRA668G, LEPG2548A and A19G-was carried out via an ARMS-MAMA real-time PCR procedure, as previously described. Regarding LEPG2548A, we found that the most expressed genotype in infants both in the preterm and the at-term group was AG; however, we did not discover any statistically significant difference (p = 0.97). Considering LEPA19G, none among the infants and parents were found to carry the AA genotype. No statistically significant differences were found between children, mothers and fathers belonging to preterm and at-term groups. We did not find a statistically significant association in newborns and their mother, but our results show a statistical correlation with the LEPRA668G genotype GG of the father. This fact can contribute to defining genetic risk factors for PTB. Further studies are certainly needed to better clarify the role of genetics in influencing preterm delivery.

Lack of detection of HPyV12 DNA using real-time PCR in Italian infants with diarrhea

BACKGROUND

HPyV12 was found in organs of the digestive tract, in particular the liver but also in colon, rectum and feces. Until now, the prevalence of HPyV12 is not well characterized.

METHODS

In this study, we investigate the presence of this novel polyomavirus DNA in stool specimens collected from under-five-year-old children with gastroenteritis compared to healthy infants. A total of 190 fecal specimens previously screened for rotavirus (RV) and adenovirus (ADV) and 80 fecal samples from healthy infants, were tested for HPyV12 DNA using a home-made real time PCR. All fecal specimens were tested for the presence of HPyV12 with specific primers and probes.

RESULTS

None of 190 (0%) episodes of acute gastroenteritis was associated with HPyV12. We did not detect HPyV12 DNA in any of 80 control subjects, as well.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study represents a pilot study aiming to clarify the current epidemiological pattern in pediatric Italian patients regarding the novel and rare HPyV12. Based on our negative data and the recent observations reported in literature, doubts remain on human tropism of the HPyV12 and epidemiology: these issues need further investigations.

Quantification of fecal adenovirus viral load and correlation with Vesikari Score in children with acute gastroenteritis

BACKGROUND

Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are an important cause of acute respiratory tract infections, conjunctivitis, hemorrhagic cystitis, and gastroenteritis. In addition to enteric serotypes 40 and 41, some serotypes belonging to subgroups A, B, and C have also been implicated to be etiological agents of gastroenteritis among infants and young children. The Vesikari Scoring System (VSS) is the severity scale that was originally developed to evaluate the effectiveness and efficacy of rotavirus vaccines on 20 points. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the diagnostic value of the VSS with HAdVs genome quantification in fecal samples collected from hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis.

METHODS

A total of 137 fecal specimens (69 male and 68 female) were tested for HAdVs. The samples were collected from under-five-year-old children with acute gastroenteritis in pediatric Hospital Regina Margherita of Turin in Italy.

RESULTS

A total of 69 out of 137 (50.3%) samples were associated with HAdV genomic detection with a mean viral load of 1.08×1011±9.02×1011 genomes/mg fecal specimens. The samples were grouped on the basis of Mild VSS and Moderate VSS and the HAdV viral load was calculated in the two groups. No statistical differences were observed between two groups (P=0.6123 calculated by Mann-Whitney Test).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results did not show a difference in mean viral load between the group with mild VVS and moderate VVS.

Mir-155 expression is downregulated in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients with Epstein-Barr virus infection

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short length double strand genome encoded RNAs that are produced to repress post-transcriptionally the expression of cellular mRNAs. 2578 unique mature miRNAs are currently annotated in the human genome and participate in the regulation of multiple events, such as cellular proliferation or apoptosis. The over-expression of miR-155 of cellular origin might play a key role in the life cycle of EBV. In this study 24 pediatric patients undergoing HSCT seropositive and seronegative to EBV were enrolled. Thirty-one peripheral blood samples were collected from these patients. The mir-155 expression profile has been evaluated by a stem-loop Real Time PCR in all these conditions.

METHODS

Of 24 patients, 4 were seronegative to EBV and EBV negative to PCR (Group I), 10 were seropositive to EBV and EBV negative to PCR (Group II) and 10 were seropositive to EBV and EBV positive to PCR (Group III).

RESULTS

Based on relative quantification, the mir-155 expression was compared among the groups. The comparison between HSCT patients without EBV infection seronegative to EBV (Group I) showed higher levels of mir-155 expression than patients seropositive to EBV (P=0.1419). The mir-155 expression levels in seronegative to EBV were not significantly different compared with the patients seropositive to EBV (P=0.6504). The mir-155 expression levels in seropositive to EBV without and with EBV infection (positive viral load), were not significantly (P=0.7667). Also, when we evaluated the mir-155 expression levels comparing all EBV negative patients with an active EBV infection, we did not observe a statistically significant difference (P=0.9782).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results are controversial, showing a higher production of mir-155 levels during EBV infection.

Children with Chronic Immune Thrombocytopenia Exhibit High Expression of Human Endogenous Retroviruses TRIM28 and SETDB1

Chronic immune thrombocytopenia (CITP) is an autoimmune disease whose underlying biologic mechanisms remain elusive. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) derive from ancestral infections and constitute about 8% of our genome. A wealth of clinical and experimental studies highlights their pivotal pathogenetic role in autoimmune diseases. Epigenetic mechanisms, such as those modulated by TRIM28 and SETDB1, are involved in HERV activation and regulation of immune response. We assessed, through a polymerase chain reaction real-time Taqman amplification assay, the transcription levels of pol genes of HERV-H, HERV-K, and HERV-W; env genes of Syncytin (SYN)1, SYN2, and HERV-W; as well as TRIM28 and SETDB1 in whole blood from 34 children with CITP and age-matched healthy controls (HC). The transcriptional levels of all HERV sequences, with the exception of HERV-W-env, were significantly enhanced in children with CITP as compared to HC. Patients on eltrombopag treatment exhibited lower expression of SYN1, SYN2, and HERV-W-env as compared to untreated patients. The mRNA concentrations of TRIM28 and SETDB1 were significantly higher and were positively correlated with those of HERVs in CITP patients. The over-expressions of HERVs and TRIM28/SETDB1 and their positive correlations in patients with CITP are suggestive clues of their contribution to the pathogenesis of the disease and support innovative interventions to inhibit HERV and TRIM28/SETDB1 expressions in patients unresponsive to standard therapies.

Human Bocavirus in children with acute gastroenteritis in Piedmont, Italy

BACKGROUND

Gastroenteritis is a common disease in children, characterized by diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. Co-detection of human Bocavirus (HBoV) with other gastroenteric viruses was reported a lot in patients with acute gastroenteritis.

METHODS

This paper presents the real-time RT-PCR Taqman assay for the detection and quantification of HBoV for clinical fecal samples collected from hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis in Piedmont.

RESULTS

All fecal specimens were tested for the presence of HBoV with specific primers and probe. A total of 17 out of 123 (13.92%) episodes of acute gastroenteritis were associated with HBoV genomic detection with median viral load 6864.75±19784.79 genomes/mg fecal specimens. Among the 17 HBoV-positive cases, 11 were also positive for other viral pathogens, including Rotavirus (N.=2), astrovirus (N.=1), norovirus GII (N.=6), norovirus GI (N.=2). Two cases were positive for more than one virus including norovirus GII and norovirus GI (N.=1) and Rotavirus, sapovirus and astrovirus (N.=1). A higher detection of HBoV infections was observed in winter, and peaking in February.

CONCLUSIONS

Although HBoV is suspected to be responsible for gastroenteritis in children, our data showed that this association was uncertain since no difference was observed in term of viral load in the group with single infection of HBoV and group of coinfections with other viral agent.

Peripheral Blood and Nasopharyngeal Swab MiRNA-155 Expression in Infants with Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection

INTRODUCTION

MicroRNA (miR) 155 has been implicated in the regulation of innate and adaptive immunity as well as antiviral responses, but its role during respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections is not known. The objective of this study was to investigate the expression of miR-155 using pharyngeal swabs and peripheral blood in infants with RSV infection and uninfected controls.

METHODS

A prospective age-matched study was conducted in primary care in Torino from 1 August 2018 to 31 January 2020. We enrolled 66 subjects, 29 of them patients with RSV infection and 37 age-matched uninfected controls, and collected pharyngeal swabs and peripheral blood in order to assess miR-155 expression with real-time stem-loop-TaqMan real-time PCR.

RESULTS

The data show that there is no correlation between pharyngeal swabs and peripheral blood with respect to miR-155 expression. The 1/ΔCq miR-155 expression levels in throat swabs in RSV bronchiolitis patients and healthy controls were 0.19 ± 0.11 and 0.21 ± 0.09, respectively, and were not significantly different between healthy controls and bronchiolitis (p = 0.8414). In the peripheral blood, miR-155 levels were higher than those of healthy control subjects: 0.1 ± 0.013 and 0.09 ± 0.0007, respectively; p = 0.0002.

DISCUSSION

Our data provide evidence that miR-155 expression is higher in peripheral blood during RSV infection but not in swabs. This difference in the timing of sample recruitment could explain the differences obtained in the results; miR-155 activation is probably only assessable in the very early stages of infection in the swab and remains visible for longer in the blood. New investigations are needed in order to clarify whether the miR-155 expression in swabs can be influenced by different stages of virus disease of infants.

MW Polyomavirus in diarrheal Italian infants

BACKGROUND

MXPyV, like MWPyV, was identified in stool samples from children suffering diarrhea in Mexico. In this study, we used a home-made real time PCR to investigate the presence of this novel viruses in stool specimen collected from under-five-year-old children with gastroenteritis.

METHODS

A total of 192 fecal specimens previously screened for RV, ADV, NoV, HPeV and SaV, were tested for MWPyV with Taqman real time PCR.

RESULTS

The most detected virus was NoV GII (33.8%), followed by RV (21.3%), SaV (10.9%), HPeV (8%), NoV GI (6.7%) and Adv (1%). Real time PCR detected MWPyV in 1/192 (0.5%) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

We detected MWPyV in 0.5% of fecal specimens collected from pediatric patients suffering gastroenteritis which is smaller than the previously reported in literature (4.4% in Australia and 12% Mexico).

Prevalence of human Cosavirus and Saffold virus in young children with gastroenteritis in Northern Italy

BACKGROUND

Gastroenteritis is a common disease in children, characterized by diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. Human Cosavirus (HCoSV) and Saffold virus (SAFV) both have a worldwide distribution. Both viruses have been detected in the stools of patients with acute gastroenteritis in several countries.

METHODS

In order to provide more insights into the epidemiology of enteric viruses that are not included usually in routine diagnostic tests, cases of childhood sporadic gastroenteritis of unknown etiology requiring hospital admission in Turin, Italy, during December 2014 to November 2015, were screened for HCoSV and SAFV.

RESULTS

A total of 1 out of 164 (0.6%) episodes of acute gastroenteritis were associated with SAFV genomic detection. Among the 1 SAFV-positive cases, 1 were also positive for Adenovirus. The patient positive for SAFV do not present diarrheal episodes but vomiting. HCoSV was not detected in any of the samples.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this study presents the current epidemiological data regarding the two viruses, HCoSV and SAFV, circulating in pediatric patients admitted to hospital with acute gastroenteritis in Turin, Italy.

Pregnancy Is Associated with Impaired Transcription of Human Endogenous Retroviruses and of TRIM28 and SETDB1, Particularly in Mothers Affected by Multiple Sclerosis

Accumulating evidence highlights the pathogenetic role of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) in eliciting and maintaining multiple sclerosis (MS). Epigenetic mechanisms, such as those regulated by TRIM 28 and SETDB1, are implicated in HERV activation and in neuroinflammatory disorders, including MS. Pregnancy markedly improves the course of MS, but no study explored the expressions of HERVs and of TRIM28 and SETDB1 during gestation. Using a polymerase chain reaction real-time Taqman amplification assay, we assessed and compared the transcriptional levels of pol genes of HERV-H, HERV-K, HERV-W; of env genes of Syncytin (SYN)1, SYN2, and multiple sclerosis associated retrovirus (MSRV); and of TRIM28 and SETDB1 in peripheral blood and placenta from 20 mothers affected by MS; from 27 healthy mothers, in cord blood from their neonates; and in blood from healthy women of child-bearing age. The HERV mRNA levels were significantly lower in pregnant than in nonpregnant women. Expressions of all HERVs were downregulated in the chorion and in the decidua basalis of MS mothers compared to healthy mothers. The former also showed lower mRNA levels of HERV-K-pol and of SYN1, SYN2, and MSRV in peripheral blood. Significantly lower expressions of TRIM28 and SETDB1 also emerged in pregnant vs. nonpregnant women and in blood, chorion, and decidua of mothers with MS vs. healthy mothers. In contrast, HERV and TRIM28/SETDB1 expressions were comparable between their neonates. These results show that gestation is characterized by impaired expressions of HERVs and TRIM28/SETDB1, particularly in mothers with MS. Given the beneficial effects of pregnancy on MS and the wealth of data suggesting the putative contribution of HERVs and epigenetic processes in the pathogenesis of the disease, our findings may further support innovative therapeutic interventions to block HERV activation and to control aberrant epigenetic pathways in MS-affected patients.

Expressions of Type I and III Interferons, Endogenous Retroviruses, TRIM28, and SETDB1 in Children with Respiratory Syncytial Virus Bronchiolitis

Interferons (IFNs) and IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) play essential roles for the control of viral infections. Their expression in infants with respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis is poorly defined. Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) represent 8% of our genome and modulate inflammatory and immune reactions. TRIM28 and SETDB1 participate in the epigenetic regulation of genes involved in the immune response, including IFNs and HERVs. No study has explored the expression of HERVs, TRIM28, and SETDB1 during RSV bronchiolitis. We assessed, through a PCR real-time Taqman amplification assay, the transcription levels of six IFN-I ISGs, four IFNλs, the pol genes of HERV-H, -K, and -W families, the env genes of Syncytin (SYN)1 and SYN2, and of TRIM28/SETDB1 in whole blood from 37 children hospitalized for severe RSV bronchiolitis and in healthy children (HC). The expression of most IFN-I ISGs was significantly higher in RSV+ patients than in age-matched HC, but it was inhibited by steroid therapy. The mRNA concentrations of IFN-λs were comparable between patients and age-matched HC. This lack of RSV-driven IFN-III activation may result in the defective protection of the airway mucosal surface leading to severe bronchiolitis. The expression of IFN-III showed a positive correlation with age in HC, that could account for the high susceptibility of young children to viral respiratory tract infections. The transcription levels of every HERV gene were significantly lower in RSV+ patients than in HC, while the expressions of TRIM28/SETDB1 were overlapping. Given the negative impact of HERVs and the positive effects of TRIM28/SETDB1 on innate and adaptive immune responses, the downregulation of the former and the normal expression of the latter may contribute to preserving immune functions against infection.

Rotavirus Quantification in Children with Acute Gastroenteritis

INTRODUCTION

Most intractable diarrheas are treated with antibiotics, irrespective of the causative agent. This study aimed to quantify rotavirus (RV) with TaqMan real-time PCR in fecal samples of children with acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in accordance with the program of reduction of drug resistance and use of antibiotics.

METHODS

A total of 190 fecal specimens were collected from under-5-year-old children with AGE in pediatric Hospital Regina Margherita of Turin in Italy in 2017. A total of 38 out of 67 (56.7%) episodes of AGE were associated with RV genomic detection with a multiplex commercial kit.

RESULTS

All fecal specimens were tested for the presence of RV and other GE viruses. The most commonly detected virus was norovirus (41%), astrovirus (15.8%), human bocavirus (8.9%), sapovirus (7.9%), human parechovirus (5.8%), rhinovirus (4.2%), and adenovirus (1%). In 66 out of 190 (34.7%), RV was detectable with the median viral load 7.2E + 11 ± 60E + 11 genomes/mg fecal specimens.

DISCUSSION/CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that RV was present in around 34.7% of children hospitalized for AGE, a rate similar to those reported in previous studies conducted elsewhere which were in the range of 33-75%. Our protocols are able to quantify the absolute number of viral particle/mg of feces. The clinical utility of quantitative molecular assays, such as RV viral load, will be markedly improved.

Analysis of Serum Th2 Cytokines in Infants with Non-IgE Mediated Food Allergy Compared to Healthy Infants

Background: The aim of this study is to assess the serum values of IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, and IL-13 in a group of infants with non-IgE mediated food allergies treated with a hydrolyzed formula and compare them with a group of healthy peers. Methods: A total of 53 infants aged 1 to 4 months, of which 34 with non-IgE mediated food allergies and 19 healthy infants were enrolled in this study. Infants were eligible if they had gastrointestinal symptoms of food allergy and needed to switch from their initial formula to hydrolyzed formulas with an improvement of symptoms. Controls were fed with either breastmilk or standard formula. Blood samples were taken within one week of a special diet for cases. Interleukinsin in peripheral blood was detected and analyzed using the real-time PCR MAMA method. Fecal calprotectin was evaluated using a quantitative assay. Results: Values of IL-4 and IL-13 were significantly higher in the non-IgE food allergy group compared to the control group (p < 0.05), while IL-5 and IL-10 were significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.05). Fecal calprotectin in the non-IgE food allergy group was significantly higher compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study provides a theoretical basis that Th2 cytokine expression in infants with a non-IgE mediated food allergy is significantly different than in healthy infants; this finding supports the use of early dietetic treatment with hydrolyzed formulas.

Enhanced expression of endogenous retroviruses and of TRIM28 and SETDB1 in children with food allergy

Background

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) represent 8% of our genome. They originate from ancestral infections and although no longer contagious they can regulate transcription of adjacent cellular genes, produce viral RNAs sensed as non‐self by pattern recognition receptors, and encode viral proteins, such as Syncytin (SYN) 1 and 2, that exhibit potent immunomodulatory properties. Based on this, HERVs have been studied and proposed as relevant cofactors in several chronic inflammatory and immune‐mediated diseases. HERV transcription is regulated by host TRIM28 and SET domain bifurcated histone lysine methyltransferase 1 (SETDB1), which in turn exert crucial regulatory functions on the host immune system. No studies explored the expression of HERVs, TRIM28, and SETDB1 in allergic patients.

Methods

We assessed, through a polymerase chain reaction real time Taqman amplification assay, the transcription levels of pol genes of HERV‐H, HERV‐K, HERV‐W, and of env genes of SYN1 and SYN2, as well as of TRIM28 and SETDB1 in whole blood from 32 children with IgE‐mediated food allergy, 19 with food protein‐induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES), and in healthy control children.

Results

The expression levels of pol genes of HERV‐H, ‐K, and ‐W were significantly enhanced in patients with IgE‐mediated FA or FPIES as compared to control subjects, while the mRNA concentrations of SYN1 and SYN2 were comparable in each group of children. Both TRIM28 and SETDB1 mRNA levels were significantly higher in allergic patients.

Conclusions

Given the influence of HERVs and of TRIM28 and SETDB1 on innate and adaptive immune responses, their transcriptional activation in children with food allergies suggest that they might play important roles in the development of these diseases.

Assessment of interferon gamma and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 analysis during respiratory syncytial virus infection in infants in Italy: an observational case-control study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to measure interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) values in the White blood cells of infants during respiratory tract infections and to compare these with healthy age-matched controls.

DESIGN

This was a prospective, observational case-control study conducted in 2019-2020.

SETTING

The study took place at Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, Turin, Italy.

PARTICIPANTS

The study comprised 63 infants, including 26 patients hospitalised for bronchiolitis due to a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection and 37 age-matched controls. The inclusion criteria included a positive RSV test for an infant with bronchiolitis.

METHODS

We collected peripheral blood and measured the relative quantification of messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of IFN-γ and IDO1 with TaqMan real-time PCR amplification. The data were collected on the first day of admission.

RESULTS

The mean age of the 26 patients with RSV bronchiolitis (53.8% female) was 85 (9-346) days when they were admitted to the hospital. Their mean gestational age at birth was 38 weeks and their mean birth weight was 3100 (2780-3730) g. The expression of IFN-γ was significantly reduced in patients with bronchiolitis RSV compared with healthy controls (p=0.0132). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups when the IDO1 mRNA expression values in their WCC were measured (p=0.0642).

CONCLUSION

Our findings did not clarify whether IDO1 expression was related to the early stage of the disease or to the young age of the infants. The data provide evidence that IFN-γ was significantly reduced in infants with bronchiolitis due to RSV, compared with age-matched healthy controls, but the IDO1 was not different. New investigations that focus on subjects infected with RSV at different stages of infancy would help to clarify whether IDO1 expression can be related to age.

Overexpression of endogenous retroviruses in children with celiac disease

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) represent 8% of our genome. Although no longer infectious, they can regulate transcription of adjacent cellular genes, produce retroviral RNAs, and encode viral proteins that can modulate both innate and adaptive immune responses. Based on this, HERVs have been studied and proposed as contributing factors in various autoimmune disorders. Celiac disease (CD) is considered an autoimmune disease, but HERV expression has not been studied in celiac patients. The aim of this study is to assess the transcription levels of pol genes of HERV-H, -K, and -W and of their TRIM28 repressor in WBCs from celiac children and age-matched control subjects. A PCR real-time TaqMan amplification assay was used to evaluate HERV and TRIM28 transcripts with normalization of the results to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. The RNA levels of pol genes of the three HERV families were significantly higher in WBCs from 38 celiac patients than from 51 control subjects. TRIM28 transcription was comparable between the two study populations.Conclusion: Present results show, for the first time, that pol genes of HERV-H, -K, and -W are overexpressed in patients with CD. Given their proinflammatory and autoimmune properties, this suggests that HERVs may contribute to the development of CD in susceptible individuals. What is Known: • Based on this, HERVs have been studied and proposed as contributing factors in various autoimmune disorders. What is New: • Present results show, for the first time, that pol genes of HERV-H, -K, and -W are overexpressed in patients with CD.

CD27 mRNA expression in mycosis fungoides

BACKGROUND

The etiopathogenesis of MF remains obscure. CD27 is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRS) that regulates lymphocyte function4. Expression of CD27 protein and mRNA has been reported in B-cell lymphomas5 and adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma6. In this study, we examined the expression of CD27 in the skin of MF patients by real time PCR. The amount of CD27 was measured in MF patients and healthy controls.

METHODS

A total of 98 skin biopsies were analyzed: 12 obtained from healthy donors and 86 obtained Cryostatic sections OCT-embedded affected by MF. Relative quantification of mRNA CD27 expression was achieved by means of TaqMan amplification and normalization to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH).

RESULTS

Housekeeping gene was detectable in all Skin samples and there isn't difference between healthy control and MF p value 0.1564. CD27 mRNA sequences were found in 3 of 12 (25%) of skin obtained from healthy donors and in 59 of 86 (68%) of skin obtained from Cryostatic sections OCT-embedded affected by MF. The chi-square statistic with Yates correction is 6.8413 and the p-value is 0.0089. When we compared the CD27 expression in MF and controls the RQ analysis show a value of 9.12±14.13. A RQ of 9.12 means that this gene is 9.12 times more expressed in MF skin samples then in the healthy skin samples. No difference were observed in the MF clustered by stages.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicates that CD27 can be used as diagnostic/prognostic markers, and whether anti-CD27 antibodies can be used in therapy.

COVID-19 in Children: Expressions of Type I/II/III Interferons, TRIM28, SETDB1, and Endogenous Retroviruses in Mild and Severe Cases

Children with the new coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have milder symptoms and a better prognosis than adult patients. Several investigations assessed type I, II, and III interferon (IFN) signatures in SARS-CoV-2 infected adults, however no data are available for pediatric patients. TRIM28 and SETDB1 regulate the transcription of multiple genes involved in the immune response as well as of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs). Exogenous viral infections can trigger the activation of HERVs, which in turn can induce inflammatory and immune reactions. Despite the potential cross-talks between SARS-CoV-2 infection and TRIM28, SETDB1, and HERVs, information on their expressions in COVID-19 patients is lacking. We assessed, through a PCR real time Taqman amplification assay, the transcription levels of six IFN-I stimulated genes, IFN-II and three of its sensitive genes, three IFN-lIIs, as well as of TRIM28, SETDB1, pol genes of HERV-H, -K, and -W families, and of env genes of Syncytin (SYN)1, SYN2, and multiple sclerosis-associated retrovirus (MRSV) in peripheral blood from COVID-19 children and in control uninfected subjects. Higher expression levels of IFN-I and IFN-II inducible genes were observed in 36 COVID-19 children with mild or moderate disease as compared to uninfected controls, whereas their concentrations decreased in 17 children with severe disease and in 11 with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C). Similar findings were found for the expression of TRIM-28, SETDB1, and every HERV gene. Positive correlations emerged between the transcriptional levels of type I and II IFNs, TRIM28, SETDB1, and HERVs in COVID-19 patients. IFN-III expressions were comparable in each group of subjects. This preserved induction of IFN-λs could contribute to the better control of the infection in children as compared to adults, in whom IFN-III deficiency has been reported. The upregulation of IFN-I, IFN-II, TRIM28, SETDB1, and HERVs in children with mild symptoms, their declines in severe cases or with MIS-C, and the positive correlations of their transcription in SARS-CoV-2-infected children suggest that they may play important roles in conditioning the evolution of the infection.

Comparison of methods for isolating fungal DNA

Objectives

The main aim of this work was to compare the methods of DNA isolation in the moulds of genus Mucorales with special regard to the amount and purity of the DNA acquired. The acquired DNA was then amplified by specific real-time PCR.

Design

Five DNA extraction procedures were carried out in a Class 2 Biosafety cabinet in a dedicated room with suitable biosafety precautions and appropriate biowaste disposal methods. A total of 6 Mucorales clinical strains were used.

Results

From the viewpoint of concentration and purity, methods A shown abundant amount of fungal DNA whereas methods E report a pure fungal DNA with R260/280 of 1.7 near the optimal 1.8. The DNA quantity reach statistically difference at ANOVA test with p value 0.0005

Conclusion

Overall, the E method was the most efficient method in the extraction of DNA from fungal cultures compared to the other methods considering time, cost, technical expertise, and instrumentation. Use of this assay will allow researchers to obtain DNA from fungi quickly for use in molecular assays

Bufavirus, Cosavirus, and Salivirus in Diarrheal Italian Infants

Three newly discovered viruses have been recently described in diarrheal patients: Cosavirus (CosV) and Salivirus (SalV), 2 picornaviruses, and bufavirus (BuV), a parvovirus. The detection rate and the role of these viruses remain to be established in acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in diarrheal Italian infants. From November 2016 to November 2017, stool samples were collected from 160 children <5 years old suffering from AGE and attending the Children's Hospital in Turin, Italy. During the study period, 1 (0.5%) sample was positive for 1 of the 3 investigated viruses: 0 (0%) CosV, 1 (0.5%) SalV, and 0 (0%) BuV, whereas 42 (26.0%) children were infected with rotavirus and 2 (1%) with adenovirus. No mixed infections involving the 3 viruses were found. Although these viruses are suspected to be responsible for AGE in children, our data showed that this association was uncertain. Therefore, further studies with large cohorts of healthy and diarrheal children will be needed to evaluate their clinical role in AGE.

Macrophage Receptor With Collagenous Structure Polymorphism and Recurrent Respiratory Infections and Wheezing During Infancy: A 5-Years Follow-Up Study

Background: Recurrent wheezing is a common clinical manifestation in childhood, and respiratory syncytial virus infection is a well-known risk factor. However, the genetic background favoring the development of recurrent wheezing is not fully understood. A possible role of macrophage receptor with collagenous gene (MARCO) polymorphism has been recently proposed. Objective: To investigate a correlation between MARCO rs1318645 polymorphisms and susceptibility to recurrent wheezing during childhood. Methods: We prospectively recruited 116 infants, of which 58 with respiratory syncytial virus bronchiolitis and 58 controls hospitalized at Regina Margherita Children's Hospital, Turin, Italy, between November 2014 and April 2015. All subjects were investigated for MARCO rs1318645 polymorphisms in the first period of life. Genotyping of rs1318645 was carried out by TaqMan mismatch amplification mutation assay real-time polymerase chain reaction procedure. Subjects were then enrolled in a 5-year follow-up study to monitor the occurrence of wheezing and respiratory infections. Results: The analysis of MARCO rs1318645 of allelic frequencies shows an increasingly significant risk to develop recurrent infection (p = 0.00065) and recurrent wheezing (p = 0.000084) with a wild-type C allele compared with a G allele. No correlation was found between wheezing and past respiratory syncytial virus infection (p = 0.057) and for a history of atopy in the family (p = 0.859). Conclusion: Our finding showed that subjects with C allelic MARCO rs1318645 polymorphism are at higher risk for recurrent infection and wheezing episodes during the first 5 years of life. Future studies of genetic associations should also consider other types of polymorphisms.

Enhanced expression of human endogenous retroviruses in new-onset type 1 diabetes: Potential pathogenetic and therapeutic implications

Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) have been studied and proposed as relevant cofactors in several autoimmune diseases, including type 1 diabetes (T1D), though with controversial results and no study at disease onset. In order to gather further information on the potential role of HERVs in the development of T1D we assessed the transcription levels of pol genes of HERV-H, HERV-K, and HERV-W in peripheral leucocytes from 37 children and adolescents with new-onset T1D and 50 age-matched control subjects. A PCR real time Taqman amplification assay was used to evaluate HERV transcripts with normalisation of the results to glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase. The expression levels of HERV-H-pol gene and HERV-W-pol gene were significantly higher in diabetic patients than in control subjects. Conversely, no significant difference emerged in the expression levels of HERV-K-pol gene between diabetic patients and controls. The activation of HERV-H and HERV-W in new-onset T1D suggests their importance in the pathogenesis of the disease and supports targeted therapeutic attempts to hinder their activation.

Lack of detection of HPyV12 DNA using real-time PCR in Italian infants with diarrhea

BACKGROUND

HPyV12 was found in organs of the digestive tract, in particular the liver but also in colon, rectum and faeces. Until now, the prevalence of HPyV12 is not well.characterized.

METHODS

In this study, we investigate the presence of this novel polyomavirus DNA in stool specimens collected from under-five-year-old children with gastroenteritis compared to healthy infants. A total of 190 fecal specimens previously screened for Rotavirus (RV) and Adenovirus (ADV) and 80 fecal samples from healthy infants, were tested for HPyV12 DNA using a home-made real time PCR. All fecal specimens were tested for the presence of HPyV12 with specific primers and probes.

RESULTS

None of 190 (0%) episodes of acute gastroenteritis was associated with HPyV12. We did not detect HPyV12 DNA in any of 80 control subjects, as well.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study represents a pilot study aiming to clarify the current epidemiological pattern in pediatric italian patients regarding the novel and rare HPyV12. On the basis of our negative data and the recently observations reported in literature, doubts remain on human tropism of the HPyV12 and epidemiology: these issues need further investigations.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) for the Management of Infantile Colic: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103 together with the maternal diet avoidance of cow’s milk in treating infantile colic. Methods: Forty-five colicky breastfed infants were consecutively randomized to receive L. rhamnosus for 28 days at a dosage of 5 × 10⁹ cfu per day or placebo. Faecal samples were collected from each subject before starting supplementation and at the end of the study period and were immediately analysed. Faecal calprotectin was detected via a quantitative assay. The total bacterial load and selected bacterial species were evaluated using real-time TaqMan PCR. Results: After supplementation for 28 days with Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103, median full-force daily crying was reduced (104 versus 242 min, p < 0.001) and the values of faecal calprotectin decreased significantly (p = 0.026). Furthermore, the probiotic increased the abundance of Lactobacillus (p = 0.048) and total bacteria (p = 0.040); all these effects were not observed in the placebo group. Conclusion: Infants treated with Lactobacillus rhamnosus ATCC 53103 for 28 days, in association with the elimination of cow’s milk from the maternal diet, presented some interesting features related to the effect of this probiotic treatment: reductions in crying time and faecal calprotectin, with increased total bacteria and Lactobacillus. To validate these results, a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial on a larger cohort is required.

Modulation of human endogenous retroviruses -H, -W and -K transcription by microbes

The human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are endogenous retroviruses that are inserted into the germ cell DNA of humans over 30 million years ago. Using real-time RT-PCR we describe HERV modulation by commensal microbes in the human gut. Infants, exclusively or predominant breast milk feeding, less than 12 weeks of age, during bacteria gut colonization, were assessed for eligibility. Our data demonstrate that the colonization with commensal microbes, in particular, Bifidobacterium spp., of the gut causes modulation of HERVs.

Human Endogenous Retroviruses Are Preferentially Expressed in Mononuclear Cells From Cord Blood Than From Maternal Blood and in the Fetal Part of Placenta

Background: Placenta shows high transcription levels of human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) that are overexpressed during embryonic and fetal development. Methods: In order to gather further information on the degree of HERV activation in maternal and fetal tissues we assessed the transcription levels of pol genes of HERV-H, -K, and -W in PBMCs of newborns and their mothers as well as in chorion (fetal part) and decidua basalis (maternal part) of the placenta using a real time PCR assay. Results: Transcripts of pol genes of the three HERV families were significantly higher in mononuclear cells from cord blood than from maternal blood and in the fetal part than in the maternal part of the placenta. Conclusions: The HERV over-expressions in cells and tissues of the offspring are further clues that they play pivotal physiologic roles during early life events and suggest that HERV-driven abnormalities of pregnancy and fetal development may derive mostly from the conceptus, not from the mother.

Mir-155 expression is downregulated in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation patients with Epstein-Barr virus infection

BACKGROUND

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of short length double strand genome-encoded RNAs that are produced to repress post- transcriptionally the expression of cellular mRNAs. 2578 unique mature miRNAs are currently annotated in the human genome and participate in the regulation of multiple events, such as cellular proliferation or apoptosis. The over-expression of miR-155 of cellular origin might play a key role in the life cycle of EBV.

OBJECTIVES

In this study 24 paediatric patients undergoing HSCT seropositive and seronegative to EBV were enrolled. Thirty-one peripheral blood samples were collected from these patients. The mir-155 expression profile has been evaluated by a stem-loop Real Time PCR in all these conditions.

STUDY DESIGNS

Of 24 patients, 4 were seronegative to EBV and EBV negative to PCR (Group I), 10 were seropositive to EBV and EBV negative to PCR (Group II) and 10 were seropositive to EBV and EBV positive to PCR (Group III).

RESULTS

Based on relative quantification, the mir-155 expression was compared among the groups. The comparison between HSCT patients without EBV infection seronegative to EBV (Group I) showed higher levels of mir-155 expression than patients seropositive to EBV (p=0.1419). The mir-155 expression levels in seronegative to EBV were not significantly different compared with the patients seropositive to EBV ( p=0.6504). The mir-155 expression levels in seropositive to EBV without and with EBV infection (positive viral load), were not significantly (p=0.7667). Also when we evaluated the mir-155 expression levels comparing all EBV negative patients with an active EBV infection, we did not observe a statistical significant difference ( p=0.9782).

CONCLUSIONS

Our result is controversial as the results obtained by Gao et al. showed a higher production of mir-155 levels during EBV infection.

Improved Molecular Diagnosis of McCune-Albright Syndrome and Bone Fibrous Dysplasia by Digital PCR

McCune-Albright syndrome (MAS) is a rare congenital disorder characterized by the association of endocrine and nonendocrine anomalies caused by somatic activating variants of GNAS. The mosaic state of variants makes the clinical presentation extremely heterogeneous depending on involved tissues. Biological samples bearing a low level of mosaicism frequently lead to false-negative results with an underestimation of causative molecular alterations, and the analysis of biopsies is often needed to obtain a molecular diagnosis. To date, no reliable analytical method for the noninvasive testing of blood is available. This study was aimed at validating a novel and highly sensitive technique, the digital PCR (dPCR), to increase the detection rate of GNAS alterations in patients with a clinical suspicion of MAS and, in particular, in blood. We screened different tissues (blood, bone, cutis, ovary, and ovarian cyst) collected from 54 MAS patients by different technical approaches. Considering blood, Sanger was unable to detect mutations, the allele-specific PCR and the co-amplification at lower denaturation temperature had a 9.1% and 18.1% detection rate, respectively, whereas the dPCR reached a 37.8% detection rate. In conclusion, the dPCR resulted in a cost-effective, reliable, and rapid method allowing the selective amplification of low-frequency variants and able to improve GNAS mutant allele detection, especially in the blood.

Transcriptional Activity of Human Endogenous Retroviruses in Response to Prenatal Exposure of Maternal Cigarette Smoking

OBJECTIVE

Transcription of human endogenous retrovirus (HERV) elements is usually suppressed by epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation and heterochromatin silencing by histone modifications. There is an association between maternal smoking during pregnancy and DNA methylation levels in placental tissue and in DNA from cord blood.

STUDY DESIGN

We assessed the transcriptional activity of HERV-H, HERV-K, and HERV-W in umbilical cord blood from 47 term babies unexposed to tobacco smoke in utero and 23 term babies exposed to tobacco smoke in utero.

RESULTS

In our population, the HERV-H, HERV-K, and HERV-W families were always transcriptionally active, and the levels of all HERVs (H, K, W) were significantly higher in unexposed than smoke-exposed babies.

CONCLUSION

This study provides preliminary information about the transcriptional activity of HERV-H, HERV-K, and HERV-W families in human umbilical cord blood.

Human Endogenous Retrovirus-H and K Expression in Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells as Potential Markers of Stemness

OBJECTIVE

The human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are endogenous retroviruses that were inserted into the germ cell DNA of humans over 30 million years ago. Insertion of HERVs into the chromosomal DNA can influence a number of host genes in various modes during human evolution and their proviral long terminal repeats can participate in the transcriptional regulation of various cellular genes. Our aim was to evaluate the pol gene expression of HERV-K and HERV-H in mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in relation with the expression of stemness genes such as NANOG, OCT-4, and SOX-2.

METHODS

MSCs were isolated from bone marrow of healthy donors and expanded until the 5th passage in α-MEM with 10% fetal bovine serum. HERV-K, HERV-H pol gene, NANOG, OCT-4, SOX-2, and GAPDH expression was quantified by real-time PCR in MSCs during the expansion.

RESULTS

HERV-K and HERV-H expression was always higher at p1 compared to other passages and this difference reached a high statistical significance when passage p1 was compared with passage 3. In addition, NANOG, OCT-4, and SOX-2 expression at p1 was significantly higher than their expression at p3. Pearson's test demonstrated a strong correlation between the expression of HERV-K and HERV-H and the expression of NANOG, OCT-4, and SOX-2.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings showed that HERV-K and H were concurrently expressed with pluripotency biomarkers NANOG, OCT-4, and SOX-2.

Human bocavirus in children with acute gastroenteritis in Piedmont, Italy

BACKGROUND

Gastroenteritis is a common disease in children, characterized by diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever. Co-detection of HBoV with other gastroenteric viruses was reported a lot in patients with acute gastroenteritis.

METHODS

This paper presents the real-time RT-PCR Taqman assay for the detection and quantification of HBoV for clinical fecal samples collected from hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis in Piedmont.

RESULTS

All fecal specimens were tested for the presence of HBoV with specific primers and probe. A total of 17 out of 123 (13.92%) episodes of acute gastroenteritis were associated with HBoV genomic detection with median viral load 6864.75±19784.79 genomes/mg fecal specimens. Among the 17 HBoV-positive cases, 11 were also positive for other viral pathogens, including rotavirus (n = 2), astrovirus (n=1), norovirus GII (n=6), norovirus GI (n=2) . Two cases were positive for more than one virus including norovirus GII and norovirus GI (n=1) and rotavirus, sapovirus and astrovirus (n=1). A higher detection of HBoV infections was observed in winter, and peaking in February.

CONCLUSIONS

Although HBoV is suspected to be responsible for gastroenteritis in children, our data showed that this association was uncertain since none difference was observed in term of viral load in the group with single infection of HBoV and group of coinfections with other viral agent.

Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 Probiotics May Increase CC-Chemokine Receptor 7 Expression in Infants Treated With for Colic

Aim: Studies have shown that Lactobacilli reuteri probiotics can affect cells that play a key role in the immune system. This in vivo Italian study investigated how Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 influenced CC-chemokine receptor 7 (CCR7) and interleukin 10 (IL-10) in breastfed colicky infants. Methods: Our University hospital in Turin recruited 50 healthy outpatients, at a median age of approximately 1 month, from September 2017 to August 2018. They were randomized to daily Lactobacillus reuteri DSM17938 (1 × 10⁸ cfu) or a placebo for 28 days from recruitment. We collected peripheral blood and evaluated the expression of CCR7 messenger ribonucleic acid using the real-time TaqMan reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction method at baseline and after the study period. Results: We found increased expression of CC-chemokine receptor 7 in infants treated with the probiotic, but not the controls (p < 0.0026). No differences were observed for interleukin 10 after the study period in either group. At baseline, daily crying time was comparable in the probiotic and control groups: 341 (25) vs. 337 (29) min., respectively (p = 0.450). After 28 days, daily mean crying time decrease statistically in the probiotic group: 78 (23) vs. 232 (31), respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The increase in CC-chemokine receptor 7 might have been a response to probiotic treatment. As a relatively small sample was used to conduct this study, our research needs to be replicated in different settings, and over time, to produce comparable findings.

Comparison of Quantitative Analysis of Methylated Alleles Real-Time PCR and Methylation-Specific MLPA for Molecular Diagnosis of Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome

<b><i>Background/Aims:</i></b> Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is a congenital overgrowth disorder predisposing to tumorigenesis caused by abnormal expression or function of imprinted genes of the chromosome 11p15.5 imprinting gene cluster. This real-time PCR-based assay determines the methylation status of a selected CpG island and has been proposed for use in high-throughput methylation analysis. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> Here, we use quantitative analysis of methylated alleles (QAMA) for the detection of methylation status of the KCNQ10T1 gene, in a region immediately upstream of the transcription initiation site, and the CTCF binding site 6, located approximately 2 kb upstream of the SmaI site currently used for clinical laboratory testing. We assayed a series of controls and patients diagnosed with BWS at two different loci at 11p15.5 to assess the diagnostic yield of QAMA PCR for clinical laboratory testing. <b><i>Results:</i></b> These results compare favorably with methylation-specific multiple ligation probe amplification (MS-MLPA) analysis at both differentially methylated region (DMR)1 and DMR2. There are several advantages of the QAMA PCR over MS-MLPA. The QAMA PCR is less labor-intensive and therefore more cost-effective and does not require dedicated analysis software. A second advantage is that the assay is amenable to high-throughput analysis. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> The small sample size reflects the rare nature of this epigenetic disorder, and the range of ages was quite wide, as was the degree of disease severity. Therefore, further validation with larger cohorts is warranted.

Regulatory T cells and Toll-like receptor 2 and 4 mRNA expression in infants with colic treated with Lactobacillus reuteri DSM17938

Regulatory T cells induce immune homeostasis and the expression of Toll like receptors (TLRs); subsequent inflammatory cytokine release may be involved. Recent studies have shown a microbial imbalance in the gut of colicky infants (with a prevalence of gram-negative bacteria, such as Escherichia coli), and accumulating evidence has shown the efficacy of a probiotic (Lactobacillus reuteri) in breastfed subjects, but the underlying mechanism remains undefined. The study enrolled 59 infants younger than 60 days, of whom 34 subjects had colic and 25 were healthy controls. With a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomised study performed in our unit from October 2016 to July 2017, infants with colic were randomly assigned to receive oral daily L. reuteri DSM17938 (1×108 cfu) or placebo for 28 days. Peripheral blood was collected to assess the expression of FoxP3, TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA using real-time TaqMan RT-PCR at baseline and after the study period. Our findings showed increased mRNA expression of the transcription factor forkhead box P3 (FoxP3) in infants treated with L. reuteri DSM 17938 for 28 days (P<0.009) and increased TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA expression in both treated and placebo subjects. After L. reuteri administration for 28 days in infants with colic, we observed a significant decrease in daily crying time (302.3±19.86 min/day on day 0 vs 76.75±22.15 min/day on day 28, P=0.001). This study provides evidence that the observed increase in FoxP3 expression and reduction in crying time might be responses to probiotic treatment, while the increase in TLR2 and TLR4 mRNA expression might be related to age. Exploiting these new findings may lead to an unprecedented level of therapeutic control over immune tolerance using probiotics.