The -308 tumor necrosis factor-alpha promoter polymorphism effects transcription

Impact of Genetic Polymorphisms on Treatment Outcomes of Proteasome Inhibitors and Immunomodulatory Drugs in Multiple Myeloma

OPINION STATEMENT

Multiple myeloma (MM) is classified as a lymphoproliferative disorder that remains an incurable malignancy despite improved patient survival with new drug therapies. Polymorphisms are essential in determining the effectiveness and outcome of treatments in MM. Despite significant advances, there needs to be more understanding of the underlying biological mechanisms that determine treatment outcomes. studies show that investigating gene polymorphisms involved in drug metabolism, DNA repair, inflammation, and apoptosis pathways can predict the effectiveness of treatment in MM patients. Therefore, these findings emphasize the potential of genetic profiling for predicting treatment outcomes and tailoring treatments to individual genetic profiles, which increases the efficiency and reduces the toxicity of MM treatments.

Ethnicity-specific associations between the promoter region G-308A polymorphism (rs1800629) of the TNF-α gene and the development of end-stage renal disease: An evidence-based meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), is partly attributed to pathogenesis of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Inconsistency of reported associations between TNF-α G-308A polymorphism (rs1800629) and ESRD prompted a meta-analysis to obtain more precise estimates. Eleven case-control studies from 11 articles were included. Pooled odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were estimated to evaluate the association. Subgroup analysis was based on ethnicity (Caucasian and Asian). Multiple comparisons were Bonferroni-corrected. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was implemented to ascertain the reliability of results. Sensitivity analyses and publication bias tests were performed on significant results. There were no significant association (pa >0.05) in the overall and ethnic subgroup. Indians, three significant pool ORs (pa < 0.01-0.03) showed increased susceptibility to ESRD in homozygous (OR, 6.57; 95% CI, 1.45 to 29.75; pa = 0.01), recessive (OR, 6.75; 95% CI, 1.44 to 31.56; pa = 0.02), and codominant (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.08 to 3.94; pa = 0.03) models. TSA indicated the robustness of such association in the Indian population. The main outcomes were robust without evidence of publication bias. This study showed associations between TNF-α G-308A and ESRD are confined to Indians, which are susceptible to ESRD up to approximately 7 times.

Association of IL-6 rs1800795, but not TNF-α rs1800629, and IL-1β rs16944 polymorphisms' genotypes with recovery of ischemic stroke patients following thrombolysis

OBJECTIVES

Inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 can cause brain injury, slow recovery, and adverse effects (ADEs) in ischemic stroke (IS) patients treated with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rtPA). We explored the relationship between selected polymorphisms within TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 genes, and post-IS outcome and ADEs in patients treated with rtPA.

METHODS

One hundred and sixty-six patients with IS treated with rtPA were included in this study. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) was used to assess functional recovery 3 months after IS likewise thrombolytic therapy efficacy. Patients were classified into groups with favorable (0-1) or poor recovery based on their mRS score at the ninetieth day post-IS. During hospitalization, ADEs following rtPA were monitored. TNF-α-308 G/A (rs1800629), IL-1β-511 G/A (rs16944), and IL-6-174 G/C (rs1800795) polymorphisms were genotyped using Real-Time PCR. SPSS software version 22.0 was used for statistical analyses.

RESULTS

Patients with the TNF-α-308 G/A GG genotype had a higher mean NIHSS value at admission (12.75 ± 5.176) than those carrying A-allele (10.56 ± 3.979;p = 0.016). Individuals with the CC genotype of the IL-6-174 G/C polymorphism had significantly lower NIHSS scores (8.79 ± 5.053) than those with G-allele (12.06 ± 6.562) 24 hours after rtPA (p = 0.050). Patients with the GG genotype of the IL-6-174 G/C polymorphism had a significantly poorer outcome (p = 0.024; OR = 2.339; 95%CI 1.121-4.880), while patients who were G-allele carriers of the Il-6-174 G/C polymorphism and had the AA genotype of the IL-1β-511 G/A polymorphism were statistically significantly more likely to experience hemorrhagic transformation (p = 0.046; OR = 2.7273; 95%CI 1.0414-7.1426).

CONCLUSION

GG genotype of the IL-6-174 G/C polymorphism is associated with poor recovery after IS treated with rtPA therapy.

Role of TNF-α in the Pathogenesis of Migraine

Background

Neurogenic neuroinflammation has a wide role in migraine pathogenesis including the transition from episodic migraine to chronic one. The seed molecule of neurogenic neuroinflammation, i.e., the TNF-α proinflammatory molecule, has gathered a lot of attention. This pleiotropic cytokine is a classical component of inflammatory soup, secreted by the microglial cell, and promotes a wide range of inflammatory reactions.

Aim

In this review, we aimed to provide a culminating and comprehending glimpse into the TNF-α in association with the migraine.

Method

A systematic literature survey method with a mixture of keywords was utilized to grasp the different elements that represent the association between TNF-α and migraine. Discussion. Highlighted the probable involvement of the TNF-α with migraine, the complexity of the matter such as activation of NF-KB signaling cascade, autoactivation, sensitization, and increased likelihood of transition cannot be neglected. Being TNF-α as a core node, it becomes the factor for linking diseases such as chronic inflammatory disorders, including COVID-19, and also interaction with other genes to develop severe conditions.

Conclusion

To this end, TNF-α plays a critical role in chronification, and inhibiting its signaling would likely be a crucial strategy for migraine therapy.

Sodium butyrate alleviates R97-116 peptide-induced myasthenia gravis in mice by improving the gut microbiota and modulating immune response

Fermented butyrate exhibits an anti-inflammatory response to maintain immune homeostasis within the gut. However, the effect and underlying mechanism of butyrate on myasthenia gravis (MG) remain unclear. The changes in the gut microbiota and fecal contents of SCFAs in MG patients were examined. R97-116 peptide was used to induce the experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) mice and sodium butyrate (NaB) was gavaged to the EAMG mice. Gut microbiota, the frequency of Th1, Th17, Treg, Tfh, and B cells, the levels of IFN-γ, IL-17 A, IL-10, IL-21, and anti-R97-116 IgG, RNA-seq of total B cells in the spleen were explored by metagenomics, flow cytometry, ELISA, and transcriptomics. A significant reduction in SCFA-producing bacteria including Butyricimonas synergistica and functional modules including butyrate synthesis/production II was observed in MG patients and fecal SCFAs detection confirmed the increase. The EAMG mice were successfully constructed and NaB supplementation has changed the composition and function of the gut microbiota. The numbers of Th1, Th17, Tfh, and B cells were significantly increased while that of Treg cells was obviously decreased in EAMG mice compared with controls. Interestingly, NaB treatment has reduced the amounts of Th17, Tfh, and B cells but increased that of Treg cells. Accordingly, the levels of IL-17 A, IL-21, and IgG were increased while IL-10 was decreased in EAMG mice. However, NaB treatment reduced IL-17 A and IL-21 but increased that of IL-10. RNA-seq of B cells has revealed 4577 deferentially expressed genes (DEGs), in which 1218 DEGs were up-regulated while 3359 DEGs were down-regulated in NaB-treated EAMG mice. GO enrichment and KEGG pathway analysis unveiled that the function of these DEGs was mainly focused on immunoglobulin production, mitochondrial respiratory chain complex, ribosome, oxidative phosphorylation, and CNS diseases including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We have found that butyrate was significantly reduced in MG patients and NaB gavage could evidently improve MG symptoms in EAMG mice by changing the gut microbiota, regulating the immune response, and altering the gene expression and function of B cells, suggesting NaB might be a potential immunomodulatory supplement for MG drugs.

Baseline Levels of Circulating Inflammatory Biomarkers Stratify Patients with Vitiligo Who Significantly Repigment after Treatment with Ruxolitinib Cream

BACKGROUND

Efficacy of ruxolitinib cream, a topical Jak1/Jak2 inhibitor, was demonstrated in a phase 2 trial in patients with vitiligo.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to characterize circulating inflammatory biomarker profiles in patients who demonstrated ≥50% improvement in facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index scores by week 24 (group 1) and those who did not (group 2).

DESIGN

This was a posthoc analysis of a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled, phase 2 study in which screening was conducted between June 7, 2017 and March 21, 2018.

POPULATION

Patients aged between 18 and 75 years with vitiligo, including depigmentation affecting ≥0.5% of body surface area on the face and ≥3% of body surface area on nonfacial areas, were eligible.

INTERVENTION

Patients applied 1.5% ruxolitinib cream to lesions once or twice daily for 52 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Patients were grouped by achievement of ≥50% improvement in facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index at week 24. Proteomic analysis was performed on baseline serum samples.

RESULTS

Mean ± standard error facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index in group 1 (n = 30) versus group 2 (n = 27) improved by 79.9 ± 4.0% versus 1.1 ± 7.3% and 91.9 ± 1.5% versus 25.1 ± 13.4% at weeks 24 and 52, respectively. Broad proteomic analysis revealed 76 proteins (of 1,104 tested) that were differentially expressed between groups 1 and 2 at baseline (P < 0.05). Ten distinct proteins were upregulated in group 1; 64 were elevated in group 2.

CONCLUSION

This analysis identified potential differences between patients who achieved ≥50% improvement in facial Vitiligo Area Scoring Index at 24 weeks and those who did not that require deeper scientific interrogation and may be important in stratifying therapeutic benefit for patients with vitiligo.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The original study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03099304.

One year of experience with combined pharmacokinetic/pharmacogenetic monitoring of anti-TNF alpha agents: a retrospective study

Anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNFα) inhibitors are used extensively for the management of moderate to severe inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in both adult and pediatric patients. Unfortunately, not all patients show an optimal response to induction therapy, while others lose their response over time for reasons yet poorly understood. We report on a pharmacokinetic/pharmacogenetic approach to monitor the therapy with anti-TNFα in a real-world cohort of seventy-nine pediatric patients affected by IBD that was analyzed retrospectively. We evaluated plasma concentrations of infliximab, adalimumab, and related anti-drug antibodies (ADAs), and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes involved in immune processes and inflammation on the anti-TNFα response. We found a significant association between the SNP in TNFα promoter (-308G>A) and clinical remission without steroids in patients on infliximab therapy. Additionally, a potential connection between HLA-DQA1*05 genetic variant carriers and a higher risk of anti-TNFα immunogenicity emerged.

Association of TNF-α (-308G/A) Gene Polymorphism with Changes in Circulating TNF-α Levels in Response to CPAP Treatment in Adults with Coronary Artery Disease and Obstructive Sleep Apnea

RATIONALE

We recently demonstrated that patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) carrying the tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) A allele had increased circulating TNF-α levels compared with the ones carrying the TNF-α G allele. In the current study, we addressed the effect of TNF-α (-308G/A) gene polymorphism on circulating TNF-α levels following continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

METHODS

This study was a secondary analysis of the RICCADSA trial (NCT00519597) conducted in Sweden. CAD patients with OSA (apnea-hypopnea index) of ≥15 events/h and an Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) score of <10 were randomized to CPAP or no-CPAP groups, and OSA patients with an ESS score of ≥10 were offered CPAP treatment. Blood samples were obtained at baseline and 12-month follow-up visits. TNF-α was measured by immunoassay (Luminex, R&D Systems). Genotyping of TNF-α-308G/A (single nucleotide polymorphism Rs1800629) was performed by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism.

RESULTS

In all, 239 participants (206 men and 33 women; mean age 64.9 (SD 7.7) years) with polymorphism data and circulating levels of TNF-α at baseline and 1-year follow-up visits were included. The median circulating TNF-α values fell in both groups between baseline and 12 months with no significant within- or between-group differences. In a multivariate linear regression model, a significant change in circulating TNF-α levels from baseline across the genotypes from GA to GA and GA to AA (standardized β-coefficient -0.129, 95% confidence interval (CI) -1.82; -0.12; p = 0.025) was observed in the entire cohort. The association was more pronounced among the individuals who were using the device for at least 4 h/night (n = 86; standardized β-coefficient -2.979 (95% CI -6.11; -1.21); p = 0.004)), whereas no significant association was found among the patients who were non-adherent or randomized to no-CPAP. The participants carrying the TNF-α A allele were less responsive to CPAP treatment regarding the decline in circulating TNF-α despite CPAP adherence (standardized β-coefficient -0.212, (95% CI -5.66; -1.01); p = 0.005).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that TNF-α (-308G/A) gene polymorphism is associated with changes in circulating TNF-α levels in response to CPAP treatment in adults with CAD and OSA.

Tumor Necrosis Factor-α G-308A Polymorphism and Sporadic IgA Nephropathy: A Meta-Analysis Using a Genetic Model-Free Approach

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine, involved in the pathogenesis and progression of immunoglobulin A nephropathy (IgAN). A bi-allelic polymorphism in the promoter region, at position -308 (G/A) of the TNF-α gene (rs1800629) is associated with an increased TNF-a production. However, several previous association studies of TNF-α G-308A polymorphism and IgAN rendered contradictory findings. The objective of the present study is to shed light on these inconclusive results and clarify the role of TNF-α and any possible contribution of this factor in the development and progression of sporadic IgAN. Therefore, a meta-analysis of all available genetic association studies relating the TNF-α G-308A polymorphism to the risk for development and/or progression of IgAN was conducted. Seven studies were included in the meta-analysis. Three of them included populations of European descent (Caucasians) and four involved Asians. The generalized odds ratio (OR_G) was used to estimate the risk for the development and/or progression of the disease. Overall, the meta-analysis did not detect any significant association between the G-308A variant and both the risk of developing IgAN and the risk for progression of IgAN. In conclusion, these results suggest that TNF-α does not constitute a key component in the genetic architecture of sporadic IgAN. However, further evidence deciphering the influence of TNF-α on IgAN is still needed.

Evaluating Associations between Average Pain Intensity and Genetic Variation in People with Sickle Cell Disease: An Exploratory Study

BACKGROUND

Pain is one of the most common and deleterious symptoms experienced by individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). There is a paucity of studies identifying potential genetic mechanisms of pain in this population.

AIM

Examine associations between 11 functional single nucleotide polymorphisms in 9 candidate genes with reports of average pain intensity in individuals with sickle cell disease.

METHOD

Cross-sectional analyses were performed on data and blood samples collected through the Duke SCD Implementation Consortium Registry. Participants were asked to rate their pain "on the average" using an 11-point numeric rating scale (0 = no pain; 10 = pain as bad as you can imagine). We genotyped 11 single nucleotide polymorphisms in 9 pain-related genes using TaqMan® Genotyping Assays. Associations between each polymorphism and reports of average pain were evaluated.

RESULTS

The 86 participants (mean age: 28.7 years; 64% female) included in this study reported moderate pain on average (Mean = 4, Standard Deviation = 2.4). ICAM1 rs1799969 was the only genetic polymorphism that was significantly associated with pain (p = .01). Individuals with one or more minor alleles had lower average pain (Mean = 1.25, Standard Deviation = 1.50) than individuals without a minor allele (Mean = 4.13, Standard Deviation = 2.25). The effect size for ICAM1 rs1799969 was 1.30, which is considered large. The effect sizes for all other single nucleotide polymorphisms ranged from small to medium (range: 0-0.3).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide preliminary evidence that the minor allele in ICAM1 rs1799969 had protective effects against experiencing more severe pain in sickle cell disease.

Genetic Polymorphisms in Oxidative Stress and Inflammatory Pathways as Potential Biomarkers in Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia

Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are important processes involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Numerous risk factors, including genetic background, can affect the complex interplay between those mechanisms in the aging brain and can also affect typical AD hallmarks: amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Our aim was to evaluate the association of polymorphisms in oxidative stress- and inflammation-related genes with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker levels and cognitive test results. The study included 54 AD patients, 14 MCI patients with pathological CSF biomarker levels, 20 MCI patients with normal CSF biomarker levels and 62 controls. Carriers of two polymorphic IL1B rs16944 alleles had higher CSF Aβ_1-42 levels (p = 0.025), while carriers of at least one polymorphic NFE2L2 rs35652124 allele had lower CSF Aβ_1-42 levels (p = 0.040). Association with IL1B rs16944 remained significant in the AD group (p = 0.029). Additionally, MIR146A rs2910164 was associated with Aβ_42/40 ratio (p = 0.043) in AD. Significant associations with cognitive test scores were observed for CAT rs1001179 (p = 0.022), GSTP1 rs1138272 (p = 0.005), KEAP1 rs1048290 and rs9676881 (both p = 0.019), as well as NFE2L2 rs35652124 (p = 0.030). In the AD group, IL1B rs1071676 (p = 0.004), KEAP1 rs1048290 and rs9676881 (both p = 0.035) remained associated with cognitive scores. Polymorphisms in antioxidative and inflammation genes might be associated with CSF biomarkers and cognitive test scores and could serve as additional biomarkers contributing to early diagnosis of dementia.

Interaction between dietary potassium intake and TNF-α rs1800629 genetic polymorphism in gastric cancer risk: a case-control study conducted in Korea

Mineral consumption has been suggested to have an impact on gastric cancer (GC) prevention. However, the protective effect of potassium against gastric carcinogenesis remains inconclusive. The causal link between inflammation and cancer is well established. Notably, potassium intake and potassium channels may play certain roles in regulating the production of TNF-α (TNF-α). We aimed to determine whether dietary potassium intake is related to the risk of GC. We further observed whether this association was modified by TNF-α rs1800629. We designed a case-control study comprising 377 GC cases and 756 controls. Information on dietary potassium intake was collected using a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Genotyping was performed by the Affymetrix Axiom Exom 319 Array platform. Unconditional logistic regression models were used to assess associations. A significantly reduced GC risk was found for those who consumed higher dietary potassium levels (OR = 0·63, 95 % CI = 0·45, 0·89, P for trend = 0·009). In the dominant model, we observed a non-significant association between TNF-α rs1800629 and GC risk (OR = 1·01, 95 % CI = 0·68, 1·49). In females, those who were homozygous for the major allele (G) of rs1800629 with a higher intake of dietary potassium exhibited a decreased risk of GC (OR = 0·40, 95 % CI = 0·20, 0·78, P interaction = 0·041). This finding emphasises the beneficial effect of potassium intake on GC prevention. However, this association could be modified by TNF-α rs1800629 genotypes. A greater protective effect was exhibited for females with GG homozygotes and high potassium intake.

Risk prediction of CMV reactivation after allogeneic stem cell transplantation using five non-HLA immunogenetic polymorphisms

Despite advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, it remains as one of the most common infectious complications after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT). The aim of this study was to determine the genotype of cytokines and chemokines in donor and recipient and their association with CMV reactivation. Eighty-five patients receiving an allo-HSCT from an HLA-identical sibling donor were included in the study. Fifty genes were selected for their potential role in the pathogenesis of CMV infection. CMV DNAemia was evaluated until day 180 after allo-HSCT. CMV reactivation was observed in 51/85 (60%) patients. Of the 213 genetic variants selected, 11 polymorphisms in 7 different genes (CXCL12, IL12A, KIR3DL1, TGFB2, TNF, IL1RN, and CD48) were associated with development or protection from CMV reactivation. A predictive model using five of such polymorphisms (CXCL12 rs2839695, IL12A rs7615589, KIR3DL1 rs4554639, TGFB2 rs5781034 for the recipient and CD48 rs2295615 for the donor) together with the development of acute GVHD grade III/IV improved risk stratification of CMV reactivation. In conclusion, the data presented suggest that the screening of five polymorphisms in recipient and donor pre-transplantation could help to predict the individual risk of CMV infection development after HLA-identical allo-HSCT.

Genetic Association between TNFA Polymorphisms (rs1799964 and rs361525) and Susceptibility to Cancer in Systemic Sclerosis

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α is a proinflammatory cytokine that plays an important role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. The aim of the study was to establish an association between TNF-α promoter variability and systemic sclerosis (SSc). The study included 43 SSc patients and 74 controls. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs361525, rs1800629, rs1799724, and rs1799964) located at the promoter of the TNFA gene were genotyped using commercially available TaqMan allelic discrimination assays with real-time PCR. The rs1799724 allele was associated with an increased SSc susceptibility (p = 0.028). In turn, none of the polymorphisms studied were related to the clinical and laboratory parameters of SSc patients, except for a higher prevalence of anti-Ro52 antibodies in the AG rs1800629 genotype in comparison to GG carriers (p = 0.04). Three of four cancer patients had both CT rs1799964 and AG rs361525 genotypes; thus, both of them were related to the increased risk of cancer, as compared to the TT (p = 0.03) and GG carriers (p = 0.0003), respectively. The TNFA C rs1799724 variant is associated with an increased risk of SSc, while the CT rs1799964 and AG rs361525 genotypes might enhance cancer susceptibility in SSc patients, although large observational and experimental studies are needed to verify the above hypothesis.

A comprehensive meta-analysis of non-coding polymorphisms associated with precancerous lesions and cervical cancer

OBJECTIVES

To study the risk of polymorphisms present in the non-coding regions of genes related with cervical cancer.

METHODS

The PubMed database was extensively searched using text-mining techniques to identify literature containing the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms and cervical cancer. Case-control studies published till June 2020 were considered for the meta-analysis if they fulfilled the selection criteria. The polymorphisms within each case-control study were checked for the presence of genotype data and then divided into groups based on the precancerous and cancerous conditions of the cervix. Odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used to study the effects of polymorphisms with the help of different genetic models (allele, dominant, recessive, heterozygous and homozygous). Also checked heterogeneity along with publication bias and statistical significance using the p-value.

RESULTS

120 papers covering 48 unique non-coding SNPs having 37,123 cases and 39,641 control data was considered for the meta-analysis. The genotype data was categorised into Cancer, Precancer and "Cancer + Precancer" groups, for 43, 8 and 11 SNPs respectively. The meta-analysis identified 21 and 1 SNPs as significant in the Cancer and "Cancer + Precancer" groups. Among all the polymorphisms, rs1143627 (IL1B), rs1800795 (IL6), rs1800871 (IL10), rs568408 (IL12A), rs3312227 (IL12B), rs2275913 (IL17A), rs5742909 (CTLA4), rs1800629 (TNFα), and rs4646903 (CYP1A1) were found to increase risk of cervical cancer in at least three of the five genetic models.

CONCLUSION

We identified potential non-coding SNPs corresponding to various cytokines like interleukins (ILs), tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interferon (IFN) and other immune related genes like toll like receptor (TLR), cytotoxic T-lymphocyte associated protein (CTLA) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP), as significant with increased pooled OR in this meta-analysis pointing to risk association of the immune-related genes in cervical carcinogenesis.

The Influence of Treatment with PCSK9 Inhibitors and Variants in the CRP (rs1800947), TNFA (rs1800629), and IL6 (rs1800795) Genes on the Corresponding Inflammatory Markers in Patients with Very High Lipoprotein(a) Levels

Chronic inflammation contributes significantly to the development and progression of atherosclerosis. However, the factors that lead to an inflammatory imbalance towards a proinflammatory state are not yet fully understood. The CRP rs1800947, TNFA rs1800629, and IL6 rs1800795 polymorphisms may play a role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and were therefore selected to investigate the influence of genetic variability on the corresponding plasma levels after treatment with a proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitor. A group of 69 patients with stable coronary artery disease after myocardial infarction before the age of 50 years and very high lipoprotein(a) levels were enrolled in the study. All patients received a PCSK9 inhibitor (evolocumab or alirocumab). Genotyping was performed using TaqMan assays (CRP rs1800947, TNFA rs1800629, and IL6 rs1800795). Consistent with previous studies, no significant change in levels of inflammatory biomarkers was observed after 6 months of treatment with PCSK9 inhibitors. We also did not detect any significant association between single nucleotide polymorphisms CRP rs1800947, TNFA rs1800629, and IL6 rs1800795 and plasma levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), or interleukin 6 (IL6), respectively, at enrollment. However, the difference in IL6 levels after treatment with PCSK9 inhibitors was statistically significant (p = 0.050) in patients with IL6-74CC genotype, indicating the possible role of the IL6 rs1800795 polymorphism in modulating inflammation.

Integrative analyses of genes related to femoral head osteonecrosis: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses of observational studies

BACKGROUND

Femoral head osteonecrosis (FHON) is a worldwide challenging clinical topic. Steroid use is one of the main etiologies of FHON. There are several genetic variants associated with FHON. Therefore, the purpose of this umbrella review was to provide a comprehensive summary of a meta-analysis and systematic review of genetic variations associated with nonsteroidal and steroid-induced FHON.

METHODS

The eligible studies were selected from the PubMed and MEDLINE databases for the collection of diverse systematic meta-analyses and reviews. The genetic main effect score was assigned using the Human Genome Epidemiology Network's Venice criteria to assess the cumulative evidence on the effects of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) on FHON.

RESULTS

Eight articles reported the meta-analysis of candidate SNP-based studies covering eight genes and 13 genetic variants. In the nonsteroid-induced FHON genetic variants including rs2012390 and rs11225394 in MMP8, rs1800629 and rs361525 in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, VNTR in intron 4, rs1799983 and rs2070744 in endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), rs2010963 in vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and rs6025 in factor V showed significance in each reference. The steroid-induced FHON genetic variants including rs693 and rs1042031 in apolipoprotein (Apo)B, rs1045642 in ABCB1, and rs1799889 in PAI-1 showed significance in each reference.

CONCLUSION

Based on the systematic review conducted in this study, we organized the genomes associated with FHON and looked at each contribution. Our results could give an integrative approach for understanding the mechanism of FHON etiology. It is expected that these results could contribute to the strategy of prediagnosis, evaluating the individual risk of nonsteroid-induced and steroid-induced FHON.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

Meta-analysis for association of TNFA-308(G > A) SNP with vitiligo susceptibility

Vitiligo is an autoimmune progressive skin depigmenting disease. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine and plays a crucial role in vitiligo development. Since there are conflicting results and consensus is lacking for the association of the TNFA gene -308 G > A polymorphism with vitiligo susceptibility; we performed a meta-analysis of all the available studies to investigate the association of TNFA -308 G > A polymorphism with vitiligo risk. 11 studies involving 2199 vitiligo patients and 3083 controls were included in the meta-analysis. The meta-analysis revealed an increased vitiligo risk with "AA", "GA" and "AA" + "GA" genotypes and 'A' allele in the overall (p = 0.006, p = 0.003, p = 0.001 & p = 0.003) and Egyptian populations (p = 0.001, p < 0.00001, p < 0.00001 & p = 0.002). Moreover, we found association for "GA" and "AA" + "GA" genotypes in Asian population (p = 0.0009 & p = 0.005) and for 'A' allele in Asian and middle eastern populations (p = 0.04 & p = 0.0002). Interestingly the disease activity based analysis revealed significant association for "GA", "AA" + "GA" genotypes and 'A' allele with active vitiligo patients in the North American population (p = 0.02). Moreover, we found significant association for "GA", "AA" + "GA" genotypes and 'A' allele with localized vitiligo in overall (p = 0.02, p = 0.02 & p = 0.04) and Asian (p = 0.004, p = 0.003 & p = 0.01) populations. Overall, our meta-analysis suggests the involvement of susceptible 'A' allele with: i) vitiligo susceptibility in overall population and specifically with Asian, Middle Eastern and Egyptian populations; ii) vitiligo disease activity in North American population and iii) localized vitiligo in overall population and specifically in Asian population.

The Association of TNF-α Promoter Polymorphisms with Genetic Susceptibility to Cervical Cancer in a Chinese Han Population

Background

The tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) gene plays an important role in the host immune response, which will influence the development and clearance of cancer. Polymorphism of the TNF-α promoter region is considered to influence its transcription and be a risk factor for tumorigenesis. In the current study, we evaluated the role of TNF-α promoter region polymorphisms in susceptibility to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer (CC).

Methods

A total of 2732 subjects, including 1173 healthy controls, 579 patients with CIN and 980 patients with CC in a Chinese Han population, were selected for the current study. Five SNPs in the TNF-α promoter, rs1799964 (−1031 C>T), rs1800630 (−863 A>C), rs1799724 (−857 C>T), rs1800629 (−308 A>G) and rs361525 (−238 A>G), were selected and genotyped using TaqMan Assays. The association of these SNPs with CIN and cervical cancer was evaluated among healthy controls, CIN and CC patients.

Results

The frequency distribution of rs1800629 and rs361525 alleles was significantly different between the CC group and the control group (P=0.009 and P=0.002). The rs1800629 A allele was found to be a protective factor for CC (OR=0.72; 95% CI=0.56–0.92). The rs361525 A allele was found to be a risk factor for CC (OR=1.69; 95% CI=1.21–2.38). After pathological subtyping of CC, the allele distribution of rs1800629 and rs361525 were both significantly different between the cervical squamous cell carcinoma and control groups (P=0.002 and P<0.001). The rs1800629 A allele was protective factor for cervical squamous cell carcinoma (OR=0.66; 95% CI=0.50–0.86). The rs361525 A allele was a risk factor for cervical squamous cell carcinoma (OR=1.87; 95% CI=1.32–2.65). Moreover, the genotypic frequency of rs361525 was significantly different between cervical cancer stage I and stage II (P=0.003).

Conclusion

The rs1800629 and rs361525 in the TNF-α promoter are associated with susceptibility to CC in the Chinese Han population.

Pharmacogenetics of Biological Agents Used in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) comprises a group of disorders, in particular Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), characterized by chronic inflammation affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The treatment of these conditions is primarily based on anti-inflammatory drugs, although the use of biological drugs with lower side effects quickly increased in the last decade. However, the presence of certain polymorphisms in the population may determine a different outcome in response to therapy, reflecting the heterogeneity of the efficacy in patients. Considering that several studies showed important correlations between genetic polymorphisms and response to biological treatments in IBD patients, this systematic review aims to summarize the pharmacogenetics of biologicals approved for IBD, thus highlighting a possible association between some polymorphisms and drug response. With this purpose, we reviewed PubMed papers published over the past 21 years (2000-2021), using as the search term "drug name and IBD or CD or UC and polymorphisms" to underline the role of pharmacogenetic tests in approaching the disease with a targeted therapy.

TNFA -308G>A and IL10 -1082A>G polymorphisms seem to be predictive biomarkers of chronic HCV infection

Background

Genetic changes may induce dysregulated cytokine production and affect the progression of the chronic disease caused by the hepacivirus C (HCV) because the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines determines the outcome of infection. This study evaluated the TNFA -308G>A and IL10 -1082A>G polymorphisms in the susceptibility and progress of chronic hepatitis C.

Method

The study included 101 samples from patients with chronic hepatitis C and 300 samples from healthy donors. Polymorphisms were typed by real-time PCR and were analyzed for associations with histopathological parameters (according to METAVIR classification) and HCV viral load.

Results

The polymorphic genotype for the TNFA -308G>A variant was not present in the group of patients with chronic hepatitis C and its absence could be associated with protection against HCV infection (p = 0.0477). Patients with the polymorphic genotype of the IL10 -1082A>G polymorphism had higher HCV viral load than wild-type patients (p = 0.0428). Neither polymorphism was associated with different levels of necroinflammatory activity or fibrosis scores.

Conclusion

Our results suggest the polymorphic genotype at TNFA -308G>A as protective against chronic HCV infection, and the polymorphic genotype at the IL10 -1082A>G variant associated with higher HCV viral load. Further studies must be performed in order to confirm these associations.

Tumour necrosis factor-alpha polymorphism -308 G/a and its protein in subjects with gingivitis

OBJECTIVE

This study examined the association between tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF- α) (-308 G/A) polymorphism and gingivitis, and serum and salivary TNF- α levels, in a Mexican population.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This study enrolled 171 subjects, divided into two groups: healthy subjects and gingivitis patients. TNF- α (-308 G/A) gene polymorphism was analyzed by PCR-RFLP assay. Salivary and serum samples were used to measure cytokine levels through the ELISA technique.

RESULTS

TNF- α (-308 G/A) polymorphism was shown to have a protective effect in carriers of the A/A genotype and allele A. The G/A genotype is associated with an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels in the gingivitis group. Healthy individuals had higher levels of salivary TNF- α and HDL-C, and increased salivary flow. Triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were increased in the gingivitis group. No statistical differences were found in serum TNF- α levels.

CONCLUSION

Our data demonstrate that the TNF- α -308 A/A genotype exerts a protective effect against gingivitis. Moreover, oral conditions are associated with some biochemical parameters.

Tumour necrosis factor-α −308G/A polymorphism is associated with insulin secretory defects in Bangladeshi prediabetic/diabetic subjects

Objectives

Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, an adipocytokine, is closely linked to impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and insulin resistance (IR) in type 2 diabetes (T2D) subjects. The relationship between the polymorphisms in the TNF-α gene and IR in Bangladeshi prediabetes and T2D subjects has not yet been fully identified. This study aims to reveal the association between TNF-α gene polymorphism and IR in hyperglycaemic patients of Bangladeshi origin.

Methods

In our study, 106 IGT, 100 T2D, and 109 healthy subjects of Bangladeshi origin were recruited to identify the impact of TNF-α gene polymorphism at position −308 with a G>A transition using PCR and subsequent restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP).

Results

The −308G>A TNF-α genotype frequency distribution within the control, IGT, and T2D groups showed a significant association (χ² = 21.077; P = 0.001), although allele frequency distribution within the groups showed a statistically non-significant difference (χ² = 1.696; P = 0.091). β-cell functional deficiency (HOMA-B%) was observed to be significantly (P = 0.034) lower in subjects with a variant genotype. In addition, our results indicate that the study subjects’ body mass index (BMI) and residence status were positively correlated (P ≤ 0.05) with −308G>A TNF-α gene polymorphism.

Conclusions

Therefore, it can be concluded that −308G>A TNF-α gene polymorphism may have a causative relationship with lower insulin secretory capacity and higher BMI in Bangladeshi IGT and T2D populations, while the urban population's lifestyle might be associated with this polymorphism.

Association between common polymorphisms in IL-1 and TNFα and risk of peri-implant disease: A meta-analysis

Background

Pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) play important roles in host immune response and bone metabolism during dental implant osseointegration. Whether the functional polymorphisms in IL-1α, IL-1β and TNFα were associated with peri-implant disease was unclear, and we performed the present meta-analysis for this purpose.

Methods

Eligible studies investigating IL-1α C-889T, IL-1β C+3954T and C-511T, TNFα G-308A, composite genotype of IL-1α C-889T and IL-1β C+3954T for association with peri-implant disease, including peri-implantitis (PI), marginal bone loss (MBL) and implant failure/loss (IF/IL), were searched on several literature databases prior to April 30, 2021. Odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for each polymorphism in different genetic models and for composite genotype comparing carriers to non-carriers.

Results

Twenty-seven studies (1324 cases with peri-implant disease and 1808 controls with healthy implants) were included. There was significant correlation between IL-1α C-889T and peri-implant disease in all genetic models. IL-1β C+3954T was associated with peri-implant disease risk in allelic (OR = 1.66, 95%CI 1.17–2.35, p = 0.004) and dominant model (OR = 1.74, 95%CI 1.19–2.53, p = 0.004), and in subgroups of Asians, Caucasians, non-smokers, IF/IL and PI. TT genotype of IL-1β C-511T increased the risk of peri-implant disease (OR = 1.68, 95%CI 1.15–2.43, p = 0.007) and MBL (OR = 4.33, 95%CI 1.72–10.9, p = 0.002) compared to CC+CT genotypes. We did not observed a significant association between TNFα G-308A and peri-implant diseases in overall or subgroups analysis. Carriers of positive composite genotype of IL-1α C-889T and IL-1β C+3954T had 1.95-fold (95%CI 1.35–2.80, p<0.001) risk of peri-implant disease and 1.76-fold (95%CI 1.05–2.95, p = 0.032) risk of IF/IL than non-carriers.

Conclusion

Functional polymorphisms of IL-1α (C-889T), IL-1β (C+3954T, C-511T) and composite genotype of IL-1 can be used as predictive markers for peri-implant disease, whereas TNFα G-308A polymorphism was not associated with peri-implant disease.

The effects of genotype on inflammatory response in hippocampal progenitor cells: A computational approach

Cell culture models are valuable tools to study biological mechanisms underlying health and disease in a controlled environment. Although their genotype influences their phenotype, subtle genetic variations in cell lines are rarely characterised and taken into account for in vitro studies. To investigate how the genetic makeup of a cell line might affect the cellular response to inflammation, we characterised the single nucleotide variants (SNPs) relevant to inflammation-related genes in an established hippocampal progenitor cell line (HPC0A07/03C) that is frequently used as an in vitro model for hippocampal neurogenesis (HN). SNPs were identified using a genotyping array, and genes associated with chronic inflammatory and neuroinflammatory response gene ontology terms were retrieved using the AmiGO application. SNPs associated with these genes were then extracted from the genotyping dataset, for which a literature search was conducted, yielding relevant research articles for a total of 17 SNPs. Of these variants, 10 were found to potentially affect hippocampal neurogenesis whereby a majority (n=7) is likely to reduce neurogenesis under inflammatory conditions. Taken together, the existing literature seems to suggest that all stages of hippocampal neurogenesis could be negatively affected due to the genetic makeup in HPC0A07/03C cells under inflammation. Additional experiments will be needed to validate these specific findings in a laboratory setting. However, this computational approach already confirms that in vitro studies in general should control for cell lines subtle genetic variations which could mask or exacerbate findings.

Association of TNF-α (-308G/A) Gene Polymorphism with Circulating TNF-α Levels and Excessive Daytime Sleepiness in Adults with Coronary Artery Disease and Concomitant Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is common in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), in which inflammatory activity has a crucial role. The manifestation of OSA varies significantly between individuals in clinical cohorts; not all adults with OSA demonstrate the same set of symptoms; i.e., excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) and/or increased levels of inflammatory biomarkers. The further exploration of the molecular basis of these differences is therefore essential for a better understanding of the OSA phenotypes in cardiac patients. In this current secondary analysis of the Randomized Intervention with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure in CAD and OSA (RICCADSA) trial (Trial Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; No: NCT 00519597), we aimed to address the association of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α)-308G/A gene polymorphism with circulating TNF-α levels and EDS among 326 participants. CAD patients with OSA (apnea–hypopnea-index (AHI) ≥ 15 events/h; n = 256) were categorized as having EDS (n = 100) or no-EDS (n = 156) based on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale score with a cut-off of 10. CAD patients with no-OSA (AHI < 5 events/h; n = 70) were included as a control group. The results demonstrated no significant differences regarding the distribution of the TNF-α alleles and genotypes between CAD patients with vs. without OSA. In a multivariate analysis, the oxygen desaturation index and TNF-α genotypes from GG to GA and GA to AA as well as the TNF-α-308A allele carriage were significantly associated with the circulating TNF-α levels. Moreover, the TNF-α-308A allele was associated with a decreased risk for EDS (odds ratio 0.64, 95% confidence interval 0.41–0.99; p = 0.043) independent of age, sex, obesity, OSA severity and the circulating TNF-α levels. We conclude that the TNF-α-308A allele appears to modulate circulatory TNF-α levels and mitigate EDS in adults with CAD and concomitant OSA.

Association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms in tumour necrosis factor and human leukocyte antigens genes with type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease characterized by progressive destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells. This multifactorial disease has a strong genetic component associated with the human leukocyte antigens (HLA) and non-HLA regions. In this study, we compared frequencies of HLA-DRB1 alleles and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated the genes coding for: toll-like receptors (TLRs), tumour necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-1 receptor type 1 (IL-1R1), interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RN), interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interleukin-12B (IL-12B), between T1D patients and healthy controls. The aim was to identify frequency differences and linkage between these genetic markers in T1D patients and healthy controls. Twelve SNPs were investigated as follows: rs16944 (IL-1B), rs1143634 (IL-1B), rs1800587 (IL-1A), rs2069762 (IL-2), rs3212227 (IL-12B), rs2234650 (IL-1R1), rs315952 (IL-1RN), rs3804099 (TLR2), rs4986790 (TLR4), rs4986791 (TLR4), rs1800629 (TNF) and rs361525 (TNF). TaqMan genotype assay method was used for SNPs genotyping. HLA-DRB1* genes were typed by Sequence Specific Oligonucleotide Probe (SSOP). SPSS and SNPStats programs were used for the statistical analysis. Significant differences between T1D and control groups were found for the dominant model of rs361525 and rs1800629A:rs361525G genotypes for TNF. Increased frequencies of DRB1*03 and DRB1*04 and decreased frequencies of DRB1*07, DRB1*11 and DRB1*13 and DRB1*15 were observed in T1D patients compared with controls. However, the genotype, DRB1*07 with rs1800629A/G was associated with T1D. We have confirmed that DRB1*03 and DRB1*04 are associated with increased risk and DRB1*07, DRB1*11 and DRB1*13 and DRB1*15 with decreased risk of T1D. Also, the dominant model of rs361525A, and the rs1800629G:361525A genotype were associated with increased risk. The simultaneous presence of DRB1*07 and rs1800629A/G genotypes in 23 out of 27 DRB1*07 positive T1D patients implied that islet cell peptide processing may have been biased towards autoimmunity by upregulation of TNF associated intronic SNPs.

Innate Immune and Neuronal Genetic Markers are Highly Predictive of Postoperative Pain and Morphine Patient-Controlled Analgesia requirements in Indian but not Chinese or Malay hysterectomy patients

OBJECTIVE

Pain severity and opioid requirements in the postoperative period show substantial and clinically significant inter-patient variation due mainly to factors such as age, surgery type and duration. Genetic factors have not been adequately assessed except for the neuronal OPRM1 rs1799971 and COMT rs4680, whereas the contribution of innate immune signalling pathway genetics was seldom investigated.

SETTING

Hospital surgical ward.

SUBJECTS

107 Indian, 184 Malay and 750 Han Chinese women undergoing total hysterectomy surgery.

METHODS

Morphine consumption, pre- and post-operative pain were evaluated in relation to genetic variability comprising 19 SNPs in 14 genes involved in glial activation, inflammatory signalling and neuronal regulation plus OPRM1 (1 SNP) and COMT (3 SNPs).

RESULTS

Pre- and post-operative pain and age were associated with increased and decreased morphine consumption, respectively. In Chinese patients, only 8% of the variability in consumption could be explained by these nongenetic and genetic (BDNF, IL1B, IL6R, CRP, OPRM1, COMT, MYD88) factors. However, in Indian patients, 41% of morphine consumption variability could be explained by age (explaining <3%) and variants in OPRM1 rs1799971, CRP rs2794521, TLR4 rs4986790, IL2 rs2069762, COMT rs4818, TGFB1 rs1800469 and IL6R rs8192284 when not controlling for postoperative pain.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the highest known value reported for genetic contributions (38%) to morphine use in the acute postoperative pain setting. Our findings highlight the need to incorporate both genetic and non-genetic factors and, consider ethnicity-dependent and non-additive genotypic models, when assessing factors that contribute to variability in opioid use.

IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNFα Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Human Influence the Susceptibility to Alzheimer's Disease Pathology

BACKGROUND

Neuroinflammation plays an important role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). During this process, activated microglia release pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) that participate in neuron damage, but also anti-inflammatory cytokines (such as IL-10), which maintain homeostasis of immune response. Previous studies showed the association of IL-1α -889C/T (rs1800587), IL-1β-1473G/C (rs1143623), IL-6 -174C/G (rs1800795), IL-10 -1082G/A (rs1800896), and TNFα -308A/G (rs1800629) polymorphisms with AD.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate whether people with certain IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, and TNFα genotypes in these polymorphisms are more prone to develop AD-related pathology, reflected by pathological levels of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) AD biomarkers including amyloid-β1-42, total tau (t-tau), tau phosphorylated at Thr 181 (p-tau181), Ser 199 (p-tau199), and Thr 231 (p-tau231), and visinin-like protein 1 (VILIP-1).

METHODS

The study included 115 AD patients, 53 patients with mild cognitive impairment, and 11 healthy controls. The polymorphisms were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Levels of CSF biomarkers were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

A significant increase in p-tau CSF levels was found in patients with the AA IL-10 -1082G/A and GG TNFα -308A/G genotypes, and in carriers of a G allele in IL-1β -1473C/G and IL-6 -174C/G polymorphisms. t-tau levels were increased in carriers of a G allele in IL-1β -1473C/G polymorphism. An increase in VILIP-1 levels was observed in patients with CG and GG IL-1β -1473C/G, GC IL-6 -174C/G, and GG TNFα -308A/G genotype.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that persons carrying certain genotypes in IL10 (-1082G/A), IL1β (1473C/G), IL6 (-174C/G), and TNFIα (-308A/G) could be more vulnerable to development of neuroinflammation, and consequently of AD.

Exploring pharmacogenetic variants for predicting response to anti-TNF therapy in autoimmune diseases: a meta-analysis

Aim: The aim of this study is to explore how SNPs may affect the response to anti-TNF-α therapy in the major autoimmune diseases, such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases and Spondyloarthritis. Methodology: We conducted a systematic overview on the field, by assessing all studies that examined the association between polymorphisms and response to anti-TNF-α therapy in participants of European descent. Results: In total, six independent SNPs located in FCGR2A, FCGR3A, TNF-α and TNFRSF1B genes were significantly associated with response to TNF-α blockers, found mainly in disease-subgroup analyses. Conclusion: No common pharmacogenetic variant was identified for all autoimmune diseases under study, suggesting the requirement of more studies in the field in order to capture such predictive variants that will aid treatment selection.

Study of TNF-α, IFN-γ, TGF-β, IL-6, and IL-10 Gene Polymorphism in Individuals from the Leprosy-Endemic Area in the Brazilian Amazon

This study aimed at verifying the relationship between the polymorphisms of the cytokines tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) -308 G → A (rs1800629); interferon gamma (IFN-γ) +874 T → A (rs2430561); transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) códon 10 (rs1982073) and códon 25 (rs1800471); interleukin (IL)-6 - 174 G → C (rs180079) and IL-10 - 1082 A→T (rs1800896); -819 C → T (rs1800871); -592 A→C (rs1800872); and leprosy. Blood samples were analyzed from 106 individuals, of whom 24 were paucibacillary (PB), 28 were multibacillary (MB), and 54 were patient contacts. Analysis of cytokine polymorphisms was typified by the polymerase chain reaction technique. For TGF-β +869 T → C and +915 G→C, a tendency to associate the presence of the C allele at codon 10 with leprosy was demonstrated, with the T allele being most frequently found in the CCOSI (P = 0.056). For the polymorphisms IL-10 - 1082 A→T, -819 C→T, and -592 A→C, we found an association of the GCC/GCC genotype with the susceptibility to the disease and the A allele at position 1082 with the leprosy protection. Greater predominance was found of ACC/ATA (31.3%) and GCC/ATA (37.5%) (P = 0.03) and the A allele at position -1082 (76.85%) (P = 0.043) in the CCOSI groups, whereas the GCC/GCC was found in the MB group (22.2%) (P = 0.05). For the other cytokines's single-nucleotide polymorphisms, there were no associations with susceptibility to leprosy. These results are limited by sample size, may not be conclusive, and will need further confirmation in a larger cohort.

Association of a variant in the tumor necrosis factor alpha gene with risk of cervical cancer

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in the regulation of the immune system and potentially the progression of cervical neoplastic lesions. In this study, we aimed to explore the possible relationship between polymorphisms of the TNF-α gene and susceptibility to cervical cancer. The relationship between a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the TNF-α gene (rs1800629) and the risk of cervical cancer was evaluated in a total of 445 subjects with (n = 153), or without (n = 292) cancer. Genotyping was performed using a Taq-Man based real time PCR method. Logistic regression analysis showed that individuals with AG/AA genotypes had an increased risk of cervical cancer compared to those with a GG genotype (OR 3.79, 95% CI 2.4-5.7, < 0.001). Our findings demonstrated that a genetic variant in the TNF-α gene (rs1800629) was associated with increased level and risk of developing cervical cancer, suggesting its potential use as a genetic risk factor for cervical neoplasia.

Synergetic Interaction of HLA-DRB1*07 Allele and TNF-Alpha - 863 C/A Single Nucleotide Polymorphism in the Susceptibility to Systemic Lupus Erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease which is characterized by dysregulation of various cytokines propagating the inflammatory processes that is responsible for tissue damage. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is one of the most important immunoregulatory cytokines that has been implicated in the different autoimmune diseases including SLE. Two hundred and two patients with SLE and 318 controls were included in the study. The TNF-α gene promoter region (from - 250 to - 1000 base pairs) was analyzed by direct Sanger's DNA sequencing method to find promoter variants associated with South Indian SLE patients. We have analyzed six TNF-α genetic polymorphisms including, - 863C/A (rs1800630), - 857C/T (rs1799724), - 806C/T (rs4248158), - 646G/A (rs4248160), - 572A/C (rs4248161) and - 308G/A (rs1800629) in both SLE patients and controls. We did not find association of TNF-α gene promoter SNPs with SLE patients. However, the - 863A (rs1800630) allele showed association with lupus nephritis phenotype in patients with SLE (OR: 1.62, 95%CI 1.04-2.53, P = 0.034). We found serum TNF-α level was significantly elevated in SLE cases as compared to control and found no association with any of the polymorphisms. The haplotype analysis revealed a significant protective association between the wild TNF-α alleles at positions - 863C, - 857C, - 806C, - 646G, - 572A and - 308G (CCCGAG) haplotype with lupus nephritis phenotype (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.35-0.82, P = 0.004). Additionally, the TNF-α - 863 C/A (rs1800630) polymorphism and HLA-DRB1*07 haplotype showed significant differences between SLE patients and controls (OR 4.79, 95% CI 1.73-13.29, P = 0.0009). In conclusion, TNF-α - 863A allele (rs1800630) polymorphism is associated with increased risk of nephritis in South Indian SLE patients. We also found an interaction between HLA-DRB1*07 allele with TNF-α - 863 C/A promoter polymorphism giving supportive evidence for the tight linkage disequilibrium between TNF-α promoter SNPs and MHC class II DRB1 alleles.

Association of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes (GSTM1 and GSTT 1), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) genetic polymorphisms with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Previous studies have revealed that genetic polymorphisms of the Glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1 (GSTM1 and GSTT1), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) are associated with the presence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in many populations. This study was conducted to investigate the association of the GSTM1, GSTT1, TNF-α rs1800629, and IL-6 rs1800795 with NAFLD in the general Iranian population. A case-control analysis included 242 NAFLD patients and 324 healthy controls from Iranian adults. After the physical examination, the genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reaction(PCR). The GSTM1 null, GSTT1 null, TNF-α AG/AA, and IL-6 CG/CC genotypes were deemed to be high-risk. The null allele of GSTM1 and A allele of TNF-α were more frequent in NAFLD patients even after Bonferroni's correction (P values<0.005, adjusted odds ratio (OR), 1.66 and 2.02; 95% confidence intervals (CI), (1.18-2.32) and (1.34-3.34), respectively. The IL-6 CC/CG genotype association with NAFLD was not significant after correction (P value = 0.04) Polymorphisms of xenobiotic and pro-inflammatory genes are associated with NAFLD in the Iranian population and seem to be a useful tool for NAFLD prevention and care.

Genetic Factors That Could Affect Concussion Risk in Elite Rugby

Elite rugby league and union have some of the highest reported rates of concussion (mild traumatic brain injury) in professional sport due in part to their full-contact high-velocity collision-based nature. Currently, concussions are the most commonly reported match injury during the tackle for both the ball carrier and the tackler (8-28 concussions per 1000 player match hours) and reports exist of reduced cognitive function and long-term health consequences that can end a playing career and produce continued ill health. Concussion is a complex phenotype, influenced by environmental factors and an individual's genetic predisposition. This article reviews concussion incidence within elite rugby and addresses the biomechanics and pathophysiology of concussion and how genetic predisposition may influence incidence, severity and outcome. Associations have been reported between a variety of genetic variants and traumatic brain injury. However, little effort has been devoted to the study of genetic associations with concussion within elite rugby players. Due to a growing understanding of the molecular characteristics underpinning the pathophysiology of concussion, investigating genetic variation within elite rugby is a viable and worthy proposition. Therefore, we propose from this review that several genetic variants within or near candidate genes of interest, namely APOE, MAPT, IL6R, COMT, SLC6A4, 5-HTTLPR, DRD2, DRD4, ANKK1, BDNF and GRIN2A, warrant further study within elite rugby and other sports involving high-velocity collisions.

Polymorphisms in the IL-6 and TNF-α gene are associated with an increased risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm

BACKGROUND

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a complex disease of the aging population that is associated with inflammation and the cellular immune response. To investigate the influence of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the risk of AAA formation and progression, the frequency of AAA and its associated risk factors were determined.

METHOD

Four SNPs in the IL-6 (-174G/C, rs1800795; -572G/C, rs1800796) and TNF-α (-238G/A, rs361525; -308G/A, rs1800629) genes were studied by the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in patients with AAA and healthy volunteers. The mRNA expression and plasma IL-6 and TNF-α levels were also determined.

RESULTS

A mutation detected in at least one allele of the IL-6 -174G/C SNP was associated with a 2-fold increased risk of AAA occurrence (OR: 2.08; 95% CI: 1.15-3.76; p = 0.014, in the dominant model). An increased risk of AAA incidence among heterozygous carriers of the TNF-α - 308G/A genotype was observed (OR: 2.06; 95% CI: 1.17-3.62; p = 0.011, in the overdominant model). The wild-type genotypes of the IL-6 -174G/C and the TNF-α -308G/A SNPs coexisted more frequently in healthy subjects than in AAA patients and was associated with decreased risk of AAA (p < 0.001). Moreover, elevated levels of IL-6 and TNF-α were associated with an increased risk of hypertension (p < 0.001 and p = 0.022, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The IL-6 -174G/C and the TNF-α -238G/A gene polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of abdominal aortic aneurysm development.

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α- 308 G/A gene polymorphism (rs1800629) in Egyptian patients with alopecia areata and vitiligo, a laboratory and in silico analysis

Purpose & methods

Several single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter region of the TNF-α gene can cause variations in the gene regulatory sites and act as risk factors for some autoimmune disorders as alopecia areata (AA) and vitiligo. This study aimed to detect the serum TNF-α (sTNF) level (by ELISA) and the rs1800629 (by real-time PCR) among AA and vitiligo Egyptian patients and to determine their relation with disease duration and severity. In silico analysis of this SNP to study the molecular regulation of the mutant genotypes was also done.

Results

In AA patients, no risk was associated with the mutant genotypes vs. the normal genotype, or with A allele vs. G allele. The risk of vitiligo was significantly higher with the G/A and A/A genotypes compared with HCs (p = 0.011). Similarly, a significantly increased risk was noted in patients with A allele vs. G allele (p<0.0001). In AA and vitiligo patients, a significant increase in sTNF-α levels was noted in the mutant G/A genotypes vs. the normal G/G genotype (p<0.0001) and in the A allele vs the G allele (p<0.0001). According to the in silico analysis, this SNP could mainly affect the SP1 transcription factor binding site with subsequent effect on TNF-α expression.

Conclusion

According to results of the laboratory and the in silico study, the mutant TNF-α (308) genotypes were risk factors that conferred susceptibility to vitiligo among Egyptian patients but had no effect on the susceptibility to AA.

Non-pharmacological Strategies Against Systemic Inflammation: Molecular Basis and Clinical Evidence

Systemic inflammation is a common denominator to a variety of cardiovascular (CV) and non-CV diseases and relative risk factors, including hypertension and its control, metabolic diseases, rheumatic disorders, and those affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Besides medications, a non-pharmacological approach encompassing lifestyle changes and other complementary measures is mentioned in several updated guidelines on the management of these conditions. We performed an updated narrative review on the mechanisms behind the systemic impact of inflammation and the role of non-pharmacological, complementary measures centered on lowering systemic phlogosis for preserving or restoring a good global health. The central role of genetics in shaping the immune response is discussed in conjunction with that of the microbiome, highlighting the interdependence and mutual influences between the human genome and microbial integrity, diversity, and functions. Several plausible strategies to modulate inflammation and restore balanced crosstalk between the human genome and the microbiome are then recapitulated, including dietary measures, active lifestyle, and other potential approaches to manipulate the resident microbial community. To date, evidence from high-quality human studies is sparse to allow the unconditioned inclusion of understudied, though plausible solutions against inflammation into public health strategies for global wellness. This gap claims further focused, well-designed research targeted at unravelling the mechanisms behind future personalized medicine.

Is individual genetic susceptibility a link between silica exposure and development or severity of silicosis? A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Silicosis is a lung disease of fibrotic nature resulting from the inhalation and deposition of dust containing crystalline silica. Subjects exposed to the same environmental factors may show distinct radiological manifestations, and since silicosis is known as a multifactorial disease, it is plausible that individual genetic susceptibility may play a role in the pathology. This review of the literature aims to provide an assessment of the present data on the genetic association studies in silicosis and describe the genes that potentially might influence silicosis susceptibility in silica-exposed individuals.

METHODS

We accessed the database of PubMed for articles published in English about interindividual genetic susceptibility to silicosis using terms related to the subject matter.

RESULTS

Following the evaluation process, 28 studies were included in this systematic review, including 23 original studies and 5 meta-analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

Regardless of the advances in the knowledge of the importance of gene variations in silicosis, more studies need to be performed, in particular, special polygenic and genome-wide investigations.

Effects of TNF-α-308G/A Polymorphism on the Risk of Diabetic Nephropathy and Diabetic Retinopathy: An Updated Meta-Analysis

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) are the major factors of morbidity and mortality in the patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Growing studies have investigated the relationship between the TNF-α-308G/A polymorphism and the susceptibility to DN and DR, without achieving consensus. Thus, we conducted this meta-analysis to reach more comprehensive conclusions for these issues. Eligible studies were retrieved through electronic databases such as PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. Summary of odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were generated to evaluate the intensity of the associations. Statistical analyses were performed by STATA 11.0 and RevMan 5.2. There are fourteen eligible publications involving nineteen studies in this meta-analysis. TNF-α-308G/A polymorphism was significantly related to increasing risk of DN under recessive model (OR=1.37, 95% CI=1.03-1.83) and homozygous model (OR=1.54, 95% CI=1.15-2.06). Moreover, the similar results were also obtained in Asian groups for DN (recessive: OR=1.69, 95% CI=1.18-2.42; homozygous: OR=1.99, 95% CI=1.38-2.86; respectively), and significant association was also detected between TNF-α-308G/A and DN susceptibility in type 2 DM in recessive model (OR=1.39, 95% CI=1.02-1.89). No significant association was observed between TNF-α-308G/A and DR susceptibility in total analyses and subgroup analyses by ethnicity and type of DM. TNF-α-308G/A polymorphism may enhance the susceptibility to diabetic nephropathy, especially in Asian population and in T2DM patients, but not diabetic retinopathy.

Effects of the IL6 -174G>C promoter polymorphism and IL-6 serum levels on the progression of cutaneous malignant melanoma

Cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM) is one of the most immunogenic types of cancer, with a 6-fold higher rate of spontaneous regression than any other malignancy. In addition to responsiveness to different immunotherapies, the immunogenicity of CMM highlights the important role of the host immune system in the response to CMM. The present study aimed to explore the role of two functional promoter polymorphisms [IL6 -174G>C (rs1800785) and TNFA -308G>A (rs1800629)] in the regulation of the genes encoding the pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α, specifically in patients with CMM. A total of 76 patients with CMM and 200 control subjects were genotyped using PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The genotype frequencies for both single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) did not differ significantly between the patients and controls (P=0.358 and P=0.810 for IL6 and TNFA, respectively). However, compared with carriers of C-allele genotypes (CG+CC), patients with the IL6 -174GG genotype exhibited more advanced melanoma (Clark scale ≥3; P=0.037) and shorter survival times, particularly those who worked outdoors (in conditions with increased sunlight exposure; P=0.016). Furthermore, the serum IL-6 levels of patients with CMM were significantly higher than those of the control subjects, which were associated with unfavorable blood and serum characteristics and tumor progression (development of new distant metastases; P=0.004), and with a shorter overall survival time (P=0.042). Using a Cox proportional hazard model, the IL6 -174GG genotype was found to be an independent prognostic factor for reduced survival time (P=0.030), together with sex (being male; P=0.004) and occupations with higher exposure to sunlight (P=0.047). In conclusion, the results of the present study indicated that the promoter polymorphisms IL6 -174G>C and TNFA -308G>A are not predisposing factors for CMM. However, the IL6 -174G>C SNP and IL-6 serum concentrations are likely to influence the progression of the disease, and the GG genotype and higher IL-6 serum levels may indicate shorter survival.

Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in TNF-α (-308G/A and -238G/A) to dengue: Case-control and meta-analysis study

Dengue is an acute viral disease whose clinical condition is related to the interaction of factors related to the Dengue virus (DENV), environment and the host, with the immunity of the human host contributing a substantial role in the pathogenesis of DENV infection. Studies have demonstrated that single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the promoter regions of cytokine genes such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) affect transcription and/or expression; and therefore, may influence the pathogenesis of infectious diseases, such as dengue. Consequently, the objective of this study was to assess through a case-control study whether there was an association between the presence of SNPs -308G/A and -238G/A in the TNF-α gene and 158 patients with dengue and 123 controls. No association was found between the SNPs and the dengue cases in the study population. We then performed a meta-analysis, retrieving data from case-control studies in the literature for the same polymorphisms. For SNP-308G/A, the GG genotype was associated with dengue fever (DF) risk (OR = 1.24, 1.00-1.53; p = 0.05; I² = 0%), while the GA genotype (OR = 0.75, 0.60-0.93; p = 0.01; I² = 0%) and allele A (OR = 0.75, 0.60-0.93; p = 0.01; I² = 0%) were associated with protection. The genotype GG population in the Asian continent (OR = 1.81 [1.06, 3.09], p = 0.03, I² = 0%) and American (OR = 1.29 [1.00, 1.65], p = 0.05, I² = 0%) was also associated with protection in the comparison between the cases versus the control group. In each comparison, the dominant model AA + GA (p < 0.00001) conferred protection. For SNP-238G/A the GA genotype was associated with risk for dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF; OR = 2.17, 1.28-3.67; p = 0.004; I² = 0%)), and the dominant AA + GA model (p < 0.00001) was associated with protection in each comparison. In summary, our results did not associate SNPs in the TNF-α gene to dengue in the Brazilian northeast population. However, combined literature data suggested the effect of the GG and GA genotypes of the SNP-308G/A on risk and protection, respectively, in Asian and American populations.

Association of TNF-a (rs361525 and rs1800629) with susceptibility to cervical intraepithelial lesion and cervical carcinoma in women from Republic of North Macedonia

Cervical cancer (CCa) is one of the most common malign diseases in women associated with human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus is an initiating factor, but not sufficient for the development of cervical intraepithelial lesions (CIN) and CCa. The disease might be a result of the influence of host's genetic factors and polymorphisms in inflammatory-related genes that modify the immune response to HPV and attribute to cancer susceptibility. We carried out a study to determine the association between TNF-a-238G/A and TNF-a-308 G/T polymorphisms with HPV-positive CIN and CCa in women living in the Republic of North Macedonia. Using multiplex SNaPshot analysis for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we analysed the genotype and allele distributions of TNF-a-238G/A and TNF-a-308 G/T in 134 cases (HPV-positive and histologically confirmed CIN and CCa) and in 113 controls (cytological and HPV-negative women). For further analysis, the case group was stratified in three subgroups (all cases: CINs+ CCa- group; CIN2+ -group and CIN1- group). Data analysed using the odds ratio (OR) and chi-square test showed the frequency of AA genotypes and A alleles are not significantly higher in cases compared to the controls for both SNPs: AA of TNF-a-238 (0.7% versus 0%) and TNF-a-308 (1.5% versus 0.9%) as well as A allelic frequency (3.0% versus 1.7%) and (13.1% versus 10.6), respectively. The comparison of the case's subgroups with the control group did not show a statistically significant difference. Compared to controls, TNF-a-238G/A and TNF-a-308 G/T are not associated with the risk of HPV associated CIN or CCa in the studied women.

No Major Effect of Innate Immune Genetics on Acute Kidney Rejection in the First 2 Weeks Post-Transplantation

Background

Innate immunity contributes to acute rejection after kidney transplantation. Genetic polymorphisms affecting innate immunity may therefore influence patients’ risk of rejection. IL2 -330T > G, IL10 -1082G > A, -819C > T, and -592C > A, and TNF -308G > A are not associated with acute rejection incidence in Caucasian kidney transplant recipients receiving a calcineurin inhibitor, ciclosporin or tacrolimus (TAC). However, other important innate immune genetic polymorphisms have not yet been extensively studied in recipients and donors. In addition, innate immunogenetics have not been investigated in kidney transplant cohorts receiving only TAC as the calcineurin inhibitor.

Objective

To investigate the effect of recipient and donor CASP1, CRP, IL1B, IL2, IL6, IL6R, IL10, MYD88, TGFB, TLR2, TLR4, and TNF genetics on acute kidney rejection in the first 2 weeks post-transplant in TAC-treated kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

This study included 154 kidney transplant recipients and 81 donors successfully genotyped for 17 polymorphisms in these genes. All recipients were under triple immunosuppressant therapy of TAC, mycophenolate mofetil, and prednisolone. Recipient and donor genotype differences in acute rejection incidence within the first 2 weeks post-transplantation were assessed by logistic regression, adjusting for induction therapy, human leukocyte antigen mismatches, kidney transplant number, living donor, and peak panel-reactive antibody scores.

Results

A trend (Cochran-Armitage P = 0.031) of increasing acute rejection incidence was observed from recipient IL6 -6331 T/T (18%) to T/C (25%) to C/C (46%) genotype [C/C versus T/T odds ratio (95% confidence interval) = 6.6 (1.7 to 25.8) (point-wise P = 0.017)]. However, no genotype differences were significant after Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.

Conclusions

This study did not detect any statistically significant effects of recipient or donor innate immune genetics on acute rejection incidence in the first 2 weeks post-transplantation. However, the sample size was small, and future larger studies or meta-analyses are required to demonstrate conclusively if innate immune genetics such as IL6 influence the risk of acute rejection after kidney transplantation.

Genetic Polymorphism in TNF-α-308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G, as Prognostic Biomarker in Breast Cancer Patients among Indian Population

BACKGROUND

Cytokines are the key regulator molecules that modulate immune response. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF- α-308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G ) are inflammatory cytokine that control the progression of several types of cancer. They play a vital role in both tumor progression and destruction based on their concentrations. The role of TNF-α-308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G gene polymorphism in the etiology of breast cancer (BC) is not clearly understood. Therefore, present study investigates the association of TNF-α -308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G and the clinical features with Breast cancer patients.

METHODS

In a case- control study, we have investigated 150 breast cancer patients and 300 age and ethnically matched healthy controls for duration of 3 years from North India. Promoter polymorphisms of tumor necrosis factor gene (TNF-α -308 G/A and TNF-β +252 A/G) were genotyped using allele specific oligonucleotide polymerase chain reaction ASO and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). The associations were evaluated by calculating the pooled odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI) using SPSS.

RESULTS

Patients with different clinico-pathological variables and healthy controls were analyzed. Significant association was observed in A allele of TNF-α -308 G/A in breast cancer patients as compared to healthy controls (p<0.0001). However, no association was seen in TNF-β +252 A/G both at genotypic and allelic level. The GG genotype of TNF-β +252A/G is higher in grades III (p<0.01) patients.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that TNF-α-308G/A polymorphism showed significant association with breast cancer patients.

Inflammation-related genes are associated with epigenetic aging in HIV

Chronic inflammation is characteristic of both HIV and aging ("inflammaging") and may contribute to the accelerated aging observed in people living with HIV (PLWH). We examined whether three inflammation-related single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were risk factors for accelerated aging and HIV-associated, non-AIDS (HANA) conditions among PLWH. We examined 155 postmortem cases with HIV (mean age = 47.3, 81% male, 68% self-reported White) from the National NeuroAIDS Tissue Consortium who had pre-mortem neurobehavioral/medical/virologic data and epigenomic data from occipital cortex tissue. Accelerated aging was measured according to the Epigenetic Clock; an aging biomarker based on DNA methylation levels. Past or current age-associated HANA conditions including cerebrovascular, liver and kidney disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cancer, and diabetes were determined via self-report. Epigenetic Aging Z-scores and likelihood of past/current HANA conditions were compared between major allele homozygotes and minor allele carriers for each SNP (IL-6 - 174G>C, IL-10 - 592C>A, TNF-α - 308 G>A) separately. Analyses were adjusted for relevant demographic/clinical factors. Epigenetic aging (e.g., higher Z-scores) was significantly greater in IL-6 C allele carriers (p = .002) and IL-10 CC homozygotes (p = .02) compared to other genotype groups. The likelihood of any past/current HANA condition did not differ by IL-10 genotype but was 3.36 times greater in IL-6 C allele carriers versus others (OR = 3.36, 95%CI = 1.09-10.34, p = .03). TNF-α genotype was not associated with epigenetic aging or HANA conditions. IL-6 and IL-10 SNPs may help to identify PLWH who are at high risk for accelerated aging. These insights into pathophysiological pathways may inform interventional approaches to treat rapid aging among PLWH.

Association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in TNFA and CCR5 genes with Japanese Encephalitis: A study from an endemic region of North India

TNFA, IL1B, HMGB1, IL10, CXCL8, CCL2 and CCR5 gene polymorphisms were investigated in 183 Japanese Encephalitis (JE) cases and 361 healthy controls from North India. Higher frequency of TNFA rs1800629 G/A, CCR5 rs1799987 genotypes with A allele and lower frequency of combination lacking TNFA rs1800629 A, CCR5 rs333 Δ32, andCCR5 rs1799987 A alleles and CCL2 rs1024611 G/G genotype was observed in JE cases. TNFA rs1800629 A and CCR5 rs1799987 A alleles were associated with susceptibility while combination lacking TNFA rs1800629 A, CCR5 rs333 Δ32, and rs1799987 A alleles and CCL2 rs1024611 G/G genotype was associated with protection to JE.