1
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Haghighi A, Shahanipour K, Monajemi R, Yazdanpanahi N, Fouladgar M. Evaluation of the Cytotoxic Effect of Thymol Loaded Chitosan Coated Fe3O4 Magnetic Nanoparticles on MDA-MB-231 Cell Line and Expression of Autophagic MAP1LC3A Gene. Russ J Bioorg Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1068162023010119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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2
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LANKTREE M, Guiard E, Akbari P, Pourafkari M, Iliuta I, Ahmed S, Haghighi A, He N, Song X, Paterson A, Khalili K, Pei Y. POS-428 PROTEIN-TRUNCATING PKD1 MUTATIONS YET MILD AUTOSOMAL DOMINANT POLYCYSTIC KIDNEY DISEASE IS UNDER-RECOGNIZED. Kidney Int Rep 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2021.03.451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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3
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Haghighi A, Athey A, Killgore W, Gehrels J, Alfonso-Miller P, Grandner M. 0979 Insufficient Sleep Duration and Insomnia Symptoms Independently Predict Suicide Ideation in Student Athletes and Non-Athletes. Sleep 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/sleep/zsy061.978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - A Athey
- University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
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4
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Shafiee MA, Parastandechehr G, Taba Taba Vakili S, Shahroukh M, Haghighi A, Broumand B. Post-transplantation Presentation of ANCA-associated Vasculitis: Granulomatosis with Polyangitis. Int J Organ Transplant Med 2018; 9:184-191. [PMID: 30863522 PMCID: PMC6409092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Granulomatosis with polyangitis (GPA) is characterized by necrotizing granulomatosis of the upper and lower respiratory tract and glomerulonephritis. If GPA does not respond to appropriate management, it might result in end-stage renal disease, which may remit the disease severity. The overall impression is that immunosuppression following renal transplantation would further subside the vasculitis. However, several studies have shown that systemic vasculitis recur in 25% of patients following renal transplantation. This may indicate the perplexing nature of the immune system. One of the key factors in prevention of relapse of GPA is following up of patients by careful immunosuppressive dose adjustment and regular measurement of biomarkers for vasculitis. Herein, we describe an interesting case of biopsy-proven GPA who had a complex long history of several post-transplantation relapses in different organs with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies seroconversion. This case emphasizes that vasculitis in particular GPA can mimic various diseases depending on which vessels and organs are affected by the inflammation and is one of the reversible causes of failure of transplanted kidney. Bearing the diagnosis in mind as one of the potential differential diagnoses of failure of renal transplantation will lead to early diagnosis and treatment of recurrent GPA.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. A. Shafiee
- Department of Medicine, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth St, 14 EN-208 Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada,Correspondence: Mohammad Ali Shafiee MD, MSc, FRCPC, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth St, 14 EN208 Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada. Tel: +1-416-340-4800 ext 6244, Fax: +1-416-595-5826, E-mail:
| | - G. Parastandechehr
- Department of Medicine, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth St, 14 EN-208 Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - S. Taba Taba Vakili
- Department of Medicine, Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, 200 Elizabeth St, 14 EN-208 Toronto, ON, M5G 2C4, Canada
| | - M. Shahroukh
- Pars Advanced and Minimally Invasive Manners Center, Pars Hospital, and Department of Nephrology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1415944911, Iran
| | - A. Haghighi
- Department of Rheumatology, Rasool Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1445613131, Iran
| | - B. Broumand
- Pars Advanced and Minimally Invasive Manners Center, Pars Hospital, and Department of Nephrology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 1415944911, Iran
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5
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Moin Vaziri V, Heidari A, Farokhi Z, Haghighi A, Seyyed Tabaei SJ, Keshavarz H, Salimi M. PCR-RFLP analysis of Plasmodium vivax reticulocyte binding protein2c gene in field isolates of Iran. Trop Biomed 2017; 34:533-539. [PMID: 33592921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A family of reticulocyte-binding proteins of Plasmodium vivax (PvRBP) is localised at the apical pole of the merozoites and appears to bind to reticulocytes specifically and has also been involved in identifying host cells. Protein component produced by the Pvrbp2c gene is highly antigenic. The aim of this study was to detect the genetic diversity in the Pvrbp2c gene of Iranian P. vivax field isolates using the polymerase chain reaction- restricted fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique. A total of 79 P. vivax malaria patients with fever participated in the study. Alu1 and Apo1 restriction enzymes were independently used to identify allelic variants of the Pvrbp2c gene. All of the samples exhibited a single band of about 2 Kb in nested PCR. Among 79 P. vivax field isolates in the RFLP with Apo1 and Alu1 restriction enzymes, 15 and nine patterns were observed, respectively. In total, 24 various patterns were detected from the combined findings of both Alu1 and Apo1 fragments in RFLP. This study revealed that Pvrbp2c has genetic diversity in southeast Iran. Genotyping of Pvrbp2c not only shows the heterogeneity of P. vivax but also provides important information that could be used to control vivax malaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Moin Vaziri
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Heidari
- Department of Medical Parasitology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Z Farokhi
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - S J Seyyed Tabaei
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Keshavarz
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Salimi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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6
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Dodangeh S, Niyyati M, Kamalinejad M, Lorenzo-Morales J, Haghighi A, Azargashb E. The amoebicidal activity of Ziziphus vulgaris extract and its fractions on pathogenic Acanthamoeba trophozoites and cysts. Trop Biomed 2017; 34:127-136. [PMID: 33592990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Acanthamoeba genus includes pathogenic species which are causal agents of a severe sight-threatening infection of the eye known as Acanthamoeba keratitis (AK). Furthermore, the number of AK is worryingly increasing worldwide, mostly in contact lens users. Until present, there is a general failure to reach a fully effective treatment against AK which is mainly due to the amoebic double-walled cyst stage which forms a protective barrier against drugs. Therefore, drug discovery research towards AK treatment is a must. In this study, Ziziphus vulgaris, a native plant of Asian countries, was checked for its activity against Acanthamoeba. For this purpose and in order to determine the in vitro amoebicidal effects of Ziziphus vulgaris aqueous extract and its fractions (chloroformic, remaining aqueous and primary alcoholic) against Acanthmoeba trophozoites and cysts, activity and sensitivity assays were performed. Moreover, the toxic effect of the extract and its fractions was also tested on murine peritoneal macrophages using a colorimetric tetrazolium salt (MTT) test. The obtained results showed that the chloroformic fraction presented a higher anti-Acanthamoeba activity when compared to the other fractions (Trophozoites/cysts were eliminated, when incubated in a concentration of 50 mg/ml of the fraction, after 24 hours). The calculated active concentrations against Acanthamoeba of these extracts did not shown any high cytotoxicity levels.This study suggests that the Ziziphus vulgaris chloroformic fraction, may present compounds with relevance for the development of novel antiAcanthamoeba drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Dodangeh
- Traditional Medicine and Materia Medica Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Niyyati
- Traditional Medicine and Materia Medica Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Kamalinejad
- School of Pharmacology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - J Lorenzo-Morales
- University Institute of Tropical Diseases and Public Health of the Canary Islands, University of La Laguna, Avda. Astrofísico Fco. Sánchez, S/N, 38203 La Laguna, Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - E Azargashb
- Department of Family Medicine, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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8
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Salehi Z, Haghighi A, Haghighi S, Aminian K, Asl SF, Mashayekhi F. [Mitochondrial DNA deletion Δ4977 in peptic ulcer disease]. Mol Biol (Mosk) 2017; 51:37-41. [PMID: 28251964 DOI: 10.7868/s0026898417010165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/12/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a critical role in peptic ulcer disease (PUD). Due to the high rate of ROS production and limited capacity for DNA repair within mitochondria, mtDNA is susceptible to oxidative damage and mutations. mtDNA deletion Δ4977 is one of the most common deletion events identified in mitochondria. We examined the association of 4977-bp mtDNA deletion with PUD. Genotypes were determined in bioptic samples of 150 PUD patients and 190 controls. The 4977-bp mtDNA deletion was found more frequently among patients with PUD (52%) than among controls (22.63%). The strong association between the mtDNA 4977-bp deletion and PUD was confirmed (OR = 3.7; 95% CI, 2.32-5.91; P = 0.0001). The 4977-bp deletion in mitochondrial DNA may be a risk factor for PUD, or may reflect an increase in oxidative stress that commonly accompanies underlying PUD disease. Larger population-based studies are needed to uncover the possible causal relationship between this deletion and peptic ulcer disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Salehi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- University of Guilan, University campus 2, Rasht, Iran
| | - S Haghighi
- Department of Biology/Genetic, Tabrize Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabrize, Iran
| | - K Aminian
- Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - S F Asl
- Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - F Mashayekhi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
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9
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Sepehri Z, Kiani Z, Nasiri AA, Mashhadi MA, Javadian F, Haghighi A, Kohan F, Bahari A, Sargazi A. Human Toll like receptor 4 gene expression of PBMCs in diabetes mellitus type 2 patients. Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand) 2015; 61:92-95. [PMID: 26255137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/25/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) is one of the most pivotal pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs) in innate immune systems. In this study, we evaluate the expression of the TLR4 in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) in comparison to healthy controls. Expression of TLR4 in 32 human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with DM2 and 20 control samples was assessed using Real—Time PCR technique. For each patient, body mass index (BMI) and blood glucose levels were measured. The results of Real—Time PCR showed a 5—folds increase in expression of TLR4 on the PBMCs of DM2 patients in comparison to controls. No correlation was observed between the TLR4 expression and sex or BMI. Our results confirmed that DM2 can increase TLR4 expression independent from sex, blood glucose concentrations and BMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Sepehri
- Zabol University of Medical Sciences Zabol Iran
| | - Z Kiani
- Kerman University of Medical Sciences Kerman Iran
| | - A A Nasiri
- Zabol University of Medical Sciences Zabol Iran
| | - M A Mashhadi
- Zahedan University of Medical Sciences Zahedan Iran
| | - F Javadian
- Zabol University of Medical Sciences Zabol Medicinal Plant Research Center Zabol Iran fer.javadian@gmail.com
| | - A Haghighi
- Harvard Medical School Department of Genetics Boston USA
| | - F Kohan
- Zabol University of Medical Sciences Zabol Iran
| | - A Bahari
- University of Zanjan Research Institute of Modern Biological Techniques Zanjan Iran
| | - A Sargazi
- Zabol University of Medical Sciences Zabol Iran
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10
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Haghighi A, Kavehmanesh Z, Haghighi A, Salehzadeh F, Santos-Simarro F, Van Maldergem L, Cimbalistiene L, Collins F, Chopra M, Al-Sinani S, Dastmalchian S, de Silva DC, Bakhti H, Garg A, Hilbert P. Congenital generalized lipodystrophy: identification of novel variants and expansion of clinical spectrum. Clin Genet 2015; 89:434-441. [PMID: 26072926 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2015] [Revised: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Congenital generalized lipodystrophy (CGL) is an autosomal recessive disorder with two major subtypes. Variants in AGPAT2 result in CGL type 1 with milder manifestations, whereas BSCL2 variants cause CGL type 2 with more severe features. Muscle hypertrophy caused by lack of adipose tissue is present early in life in CGL patients. Our aim was to investigate 10 CGL patients from 7 different countries and report genotype-phenotype relationships. Genetic analysis identified disease-causing variants in AGPAT2 (five patients) and in BSCL2 (five patients), including three novel variants; c.134C>A (p.Ser45*), c.216C>G (p.Tyr72*) in AGPAT2 and c.458C>A (p.Ser153*) in BSCL2. We also report possible novel clinical features such as anemia, breast enlargement, steatorrhea, intraventricular hemorrhage and nephrolithiasis in CGL patients. Generalized lipodystrophy and muscular hypertrophy were the only features in all of our patients. Hepatomegaly was the second common feature. Some manifestations were exclusively noticed in our CGL2 patients; hypertrichosis, high-pitched voice and umbilical hernia. Bone cysts and history of seizures were noticed only in CGL1 patients. The findings of this study expand our knowledge of genotype-phenotype correlations in CGL patients. These results have important clinical applications in diagnosis and management of the CGL patients as well as in genetic counseling in families at-risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Haghighi
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.,Wellcome Trust Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Z Kavehmanesh
- Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - F Salehzadeh
- Pediatric Department, Bouali Hospital, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - F Santos-Simarro
- CIBERER, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, ISCIII, Madrid, Spain.,Clinical Genetics Unit, INGEMM, IdiPAZ, Hospital Universitario La Paz, UAM, Madrid, Spain
| | - L Van Maldergem
- Centre de génétique humaine, Université de FRanche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - L Cimbalistiene
- Department of Human and Medical Genetics, Vilnius University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - F Collins
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - M Chopra
- Department of Medical Genomics, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, Sydney, Australia
| | - S Al-Sinani
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Child Health, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - S Dastmalchian
- Case Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - D C de Silva
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Kelaniya, Ragama, Sri Lanka
| | - H Bakhti
- Pathology Department, Takht-e Jamshid Hospital, Karaj, Iran
| | - A Garg
- Division of Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine and the Center for Human Nutrition, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - P Hilbert
- Institute of Pathology and Genetics, Gosselies, Belgium
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11
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Haghighi A, Borhany M, Ghazi A, Edwards N, Tabaksert A, Haghighi A, Fatima N, Shamsi TS, Sayer JA. Glanzmann thrombasthenia in Pakistan: molecular analysis and identification of novel mutations. Clin Genet 2015; 89:187-92. [PMID: 26096001 PMCID: PMC4737203 DOI: 10.1111/cge.12622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2015] [Revised: 06/06/2015] [Accepted: 06/08/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) is an inherited genetic disorder affecting platelets, which is characterized by spontaneous mucocutaneous bleeding and abnormally prolonged bleeding in response to injury or trauma. The underlying defect is failure of platelet aggregation due to qualitative and/or quantitative deficiency of platelet integrin αIIbβ3 resulting from molecular genetic defects in either ITGA2B or ITGB3. Here, we examine a Pakistani cohort of 15 patients with clinical symptoms of GT who underwent laboratory and molecular genetic analysis. In patients with a broad range of disease severity and age of presentation, we identified pathogenic mutations in ITGA2B in 11 patients from 8 different families, including 2 novel homozygous mutations and 1 novel heterozygous mutation. Mutations in ITGB3 were identified in 4 patients from 3 families, two of which were novel homozygous truncating mutations. A molecular genetic diagnosis was established in 11 families with GT, including 5 novel mutations extending the spectrum of mutations in this disease within a region of the world where little is known about the incidence of GT. Mutational analysis is a key component of a complete diagnosis of GT and allows appropriate management and screening of other family members to be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Haghighi
- Department of Genetics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Medicine and the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - M Borhany
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis of National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - A Ghazi
- Chronic Pain Clinic, Wilderman Medicine Professional Corporation, Toronto, Canada
| | - N Edwards
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - A Tabaksert
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - A Haghighi
- Toronto General Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - N Fatima
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis of National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - T S Shamsi
- Department of Hematology, Hemostasis & Thrombosis of National Institute of Blood Disease & Bone Marrow Transplantation, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - J A Sayer
- Institute of Genetic Medicine, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
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12
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Mahmoudi MR, Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad E, Kazemi B, Haghighi A, Mirzaei A, Mohammadiha A, Jahantab S, Xiao L, Karanis P. Cryptosporidium genotypes and subtypes distribution in river water in Iran. J Water Health 2015; 13:600-606. [PMID: 26042990 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2014.234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Little is known about the diversity and public health significance of Cryptosporidium species in river waters in Iran. In the present study, we determined the genotype and subtype distribution of Cryptosporidium spp. in river water samples in Iran. A total of 49 surface water samples were collected from rivers and surface water in Guilan and Tehran provinces during 2009-2010. Water samples were filtrated through a 1.2-μm pore size membrane filter or by Filta-Max filter followed by immunomagnetic separation or sucrose purification methods. Genotype and subtype of Cryptosporidium were identified by sequence analysis of the 18S rRNA and 60 kDa glycoprotein (gp60) genes, respectively. A total of 24 (48.97%) water samples were positive for Cryptosporidium species by the 18sRNA-based polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-sequencing technique. DNA sequencing revealed the presence of five species of Cryptosporidium (C. parvum, C. hominis, C. muris, C. andersoni, and C. canis) in the water samples of the study area and, to our knowledge, the first report of C. muris in Iran. The results of GP60 gene analysis showed that all C. parvum and C. hominis isolates belonged to the IId and Id subtype families, respectively. The investigated river water supplies were heavily contaminated by pathogenic species of Cryptosporidium from humans and livestock. There is potential risk of waterborne cryptosporidiosis in humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- M R Mahmoudi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran E-mail: ; Research Center of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Chamran Expressway, Tehran, Iran
| | - E Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad
- Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
| | - B Kazemi
- Research Center of Cellular and Molecular Biology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Chamran Expressway, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Mirzaei
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Iilam University of Medical Sciences, Iilam, Iran
| | - A Mohammadiha
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Chamran Expressway, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Jahantab
- Tehran Province Water & Wastewater Co. (TPWW), Tehran, Iran
| | - L Xiao
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Public Health Services, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - P Karanis
- Qinghai University, Medical School, Center for Biomedicine and Infectious Diseases (CBID), Qinghai Academy of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Quinghai, China
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Aghamolaie S, Rostami A, Fallahi S, Tahvildar Biderouni F, Haghighi A, Salehi N. Evaluation of modified Ziehl-Neelsen, direct fluorescent-antibody and PCR assay for detection of Cryptosporidium spp. in children faecal specimens. J Parasit Dis 2014; 40:958-63. [PMID: 27605818 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-014-0614-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/06/2014] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
To determine the sensitivity and specificity of routine screening methods for cryptosporidiosis, three methods including conventional modified Ziehl-Neelsen (MZN), direct fluorescent-antibody (DFA) and Nested-PCR assay compared together. To this end, their ability to identify the low concentrations of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts in children fecal samples was evaluated. The sample population of this study was children under 12 years old who had diarrhea and referred to pediatric hospitals in Tehran, Iran. 2,510 stool specimens from patients with diarrhea were screened for Cryptosporidium oocysts by concentration method and MZN. To determine sensitivity and specificity, Nested-PCR and DFA were performed on 30 positive and 114 negative samples which previously had been proved by MZN. By using the microscopic method, DFA assay and PCR analysis, a total of 30 (1.2 %), 28 (1.1 %) and 32 (1.27 %) positive samples were detected respectively. According to the results, the sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of the Nested-PCR assay were 100 %, compared to 94, 100, 100, and 98 %, respectively, for MZN and 87.5, 100, 100, and 96 %, respectively, for DFA. Results of the present study showed that the Nested-PCR assay was more sensitive than the other two methods and laboratories can use the Nested-PCR method for precise diagnosis of Cryptosporidium spp. However, regarding the costs of Nested-PCR and its unavailability in all laboratories and hospitals, MZN staining on smears has also enough accuracy for Cryptosporidium diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Aghamolaie
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Rostami
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sh Fallahi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - F Tahvildar Biderouni
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - N Salehi
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Obihiro Medical University, Hokkaido, Japan
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14
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Haghighi A, Nikuei P, Haghighi-Kakhki H, Saleh-Gohari N, Baghestani S, Krawitz PM, Hecht J, Mundlos S. Whole-exome sequencing identifies a novel missense mutation in EDAR causing autosomal recessive hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia with bilateral amastia and palmoplantar hyperkeratosis. Br J Dermatol 2014; 168:1353-6. [PMID: 23210707 DOI: 10.1111/bjd.12151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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15
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Kheirandish F, Bandehpour M, Davoudi N, Mosaffa N, Dawood S, Kazemi B, Haghighi A, Khamesipour A, Masjedi H, Mohebali M, Mahboudi F. Gene regulation of pteridine reductase 1 in leishmania promastigotes and amastigotes using a full-length antisense construct. Iran J Parasitol 2013; 8:190-6. [PMID: 23914230 PMCID: PMC3724142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2012] [Accepted: 02/16/2013] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pteridine metabolic pathway is unusual features of Leishmania, which is necessary for the growth of parasite. Leishmania has evolved a complex and versatile pteridine salvage network which has the ability of scavenging a wide area of the conjugated and unconjugated pteridines especially folate and biopterin. In this study, we focus on the inhibition of ptr1 gene expression. METHODS L. major ptr1 gene was cloned into pcDNA3 and digested using KpnI and BamHI. The gene was subcloned so that antisense will transcribe and called pcDNA-rPTR. Leishmania major was cultured and late logarithmic-phase promastigotes were harvested. The promastigotes were divided into two groups. One group was transfected with 50 µg of pcDNA-rPTR, whereas the other group was transfected with pcDNA3. Transfected cells were cultured and plated onto semi-solid media. Mouse pritonean macrophages were transfected using pcDNA-rPTR-tansfected promastigotes. Western blotting was performed on mouse transfected pritonean macrophages and extracts from transfected promastigotes of L. major using a L. major ptr1 antibody raised in rabbits. RESULTS The PTR1 protein was not expressed in pcDNA-rPTR- tansfected promastigotes and mouse macrophage transfected with pcDNA-rPTR- tansfected promastigotes. CONCLUSION This approach might be used to study the pteridine salvage pathway in Leishmania or to assess the possibility of using gene expression inhibition in the treatment of leishmaniasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Kheirandish
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - M Bandehpour
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences., Tehran, Iran
| | - N Davoudi
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute Pasteur of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - N Mosaffa
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Dawood
- Skin Disease Hospital, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - B Kazemi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences., Tehran, Iran
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Khamesipour
- Center for Research and Training in Skin Disease and Leprosy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Masjedi
- Skin Disease Hospital, Damascus University, Damascus, Syria
| | - M Mohebali
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Mahboudi
- Department of Biotechnology, Institute Pasteur of Iran, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Heidary S, Bandehpour M, Valadkhani Z, Seyyed–Tabaee SJ, Haghighi A, Abadi AR, Kazemi B. Double-Stranded RNA Viral Infection in Tehran Trichomonas vaginalis Isolates. Iran J Parasitol 2013; 8:60-4. [PMID: 23682261 PMCID: PMC3655241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2012] [Accepted: 02/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trichomonas vaginalis is a pathogenic protozoon and may be contaminated with dsRNA virus called Trichomonas vaginalis virus (TVV). The viral infection is an important factor for its pathogenesis and sensitivity to metronidazole. The presence of TVV is associated with qualitative and quantitative expression of cysteine proteinases and surface immunogenic; P270. The purpose of this study was to determine TVV frequency in T. vaginalis clinical isolates in Tehran, Iran. METHODS The 46 T. vaginalis isolates were collected from Tehran Province and cultured in TYI-S-33 culture medium. Viral RNA was extracted and RT-PCR was done. RESULTS Of 46 T. vaginalis isolates, 8 isolates (17.39%) were infected with TVV-1. There was not any association between patient age and TVV- infected T. vaginalis. There were 17.39% viral infection in T. vaginalis isolates which was lower than that reported by other researchers. CONCLUSION This is the first report on T. vaginalis isolates infection by TVV-1 in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Heidary
- Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Bandehpour
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Dept. of Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Z Valadkhani
- Dept. of Parasitology, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - SJ Seyyed–Tabaee
- Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - AR Abadi
- Dept. of Social Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - B Kazemi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Dept. of Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author:,
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17
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Mohammadiha A, Mohebali M, Haghighi A, Mahdian R, Abadi AR, Zarei Z, Yeganeh F, Kazemi B, Taghipour N, Akhoundi B. Comparison of real-time PCR and conventional PCR with two DNA targets for detection of Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum infection in human and dog blood samples. Exp Parasitol 2012; 133:89-94. [PMID: 23159412 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2012.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2012] [Revised: 10/04/2012] [Accepted: 10/11/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is endemic in northwestern Iran. Real-time PCR, conventional PCR, and the direct agglutination test (DAT) were used to diagnose Leishmania infantum infection in blood samples from 100 domestic dogs and 100 humans. Based on clinical evaluation, 82 humans and 72 dogs from the endemic area were categorized as having asymptomatic infection, DAT positive with no clinical signs of VL, or symptomatic infection, DAT positive with at least one sign of VL. Eighteen human samples containing no Leishmania antibodies (DAT(-)) and 28 dog DAT(-) sera from non-endemic areas with no history of VL constituted negative controls. All 46 DAT(-) samples were also negative by Dipstick rK39. Bone marrow material was used for parasitological examinations in symptomatic VL, and peripheral blood samples were used for detection of L. infantum infection using conventional PCR and real-time PCR in non-symptomatic subjects. Two DNA targets (ITS1 kDNA) were used for conventional PCR. L. infantum antibodies in sera were detected by DAT. Parasitemia was measured by real-time PCR targeting kDNA using Taqman Assay. All 72 (100%) symptomatic (38/38) and asymptomatic (34/34) dog DAT(+)samples, 45 of 48 (93.8%) symptomatic human DAT(+) samples, and 32 of 34 (94.1%) human asymptomatic cases were identified by real-time PCR. The mean (59.19 vs 12.38 parasite equivalents/mL of blood) and median (16.15 vs 1 parasite equivalents/mL of blood) ranges of parasitemia were higher in dogs than in humans (P<0.05). The highest agreement was obtained between real-time PCR and DAT (99% in dogs and 95% in humans). Sensitivity of 100% and 93.9%, specificity of 96.4% and 100%, positive predictive values of 98.6% and 100%, and negative predictive values of 100% and 78.3% were found by real-time PCR for dog and human samples, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mohammadiha
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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18
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Moosavi A, Haghighi A, Mojarad EN, Zayeri F, Alebouyeh M, Khazan H, Kazemi B, Zali MR. Genetic variability of Blastocystis sp. isolated from symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals in Iran. Parasitol Res 2012; 111:2311-5. [PMID: 22948205 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-012-3085-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2012] [Accepted: 08/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Blastocystis is an unusual enteric protozoan parasite of humans and many animals whose pathogenic potential is still controversial. To increase the understanding of the molecular epidemiology of this emerging parasite and due to its potential impact on public health, its subtypes (STs) in Iranian symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals were determined. A total of 100 Blastocystis isolates by microscopy and culture methods were obtained. DNA was extracted from the positive culture isolates, and the Blastocystis subtypes were identified using seven subtype-specific sequenced-tagged site (STS) primers. Four subtypes, ST3 as dominant (53 %), followed by ST1 (48 %), ST5 (33 %), and ST2 (7 %) were identified. In this study, ST1 in gastrointestinal patients compared to asymptomatic individuals was significantly dominant (p = 0.001). From 33 (33 %) mixed subtype infections, ST1, 3 (14 %) was significantly related to GI symptoms (p = 0.045), and eight mixed infections with three different STs, which are under reported, were also identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Moosavi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, PO Box 19395-4719, Yeman Street, Chamran Expressway, Tehran, Iran
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19
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Kheirandish F, Bandehpour M, Haghighi A, Mahboudi F, Mohebali M, Kazemi B. Inhibition of Leishmania major PTR1 Gene Expression by Antisense in Escherichia coli. Iran J Public Health 2012; 41:65-71. [PMID: 23113195 PMCID: PMC3468993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2011] [Accepted: 03/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Protozoa related to Trypanosome family including Leishmania, synthesize enzymes to escape from drug therapy. One of them is PTR1 that its enzymatic activity is similar to dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Dihydrofolate reductase - thymidylate synthase has a major role in DNA synthesis, if it is inhibited, the result would be the death of parasite. Since PTR1 activity is similar to DHFR, causes the decrease of inhibition effect of drug. The aim of this study was inhibition of Iranian L. major PTR1 expression with mRNA antisense in prokaryotic system as an approach to appear of the drugs therapeutic effects more. METHODS PTR1 gene was ligated to pACYCDuet-1 and pcDNA3 plasmids as sense and antisense plasmids, respectively. Simultaneously transfer of sense and antisense plasmids was done in E. coli strain M15. SDS-PAGE and western blot analysis were carried out to analyze the expression. RESULTS Sense and antisense plasmids were prepared and confirmed by restriction analysis and PCR then simultaneously transfer of them was done. SDS-PAGE and western blot analysis showed PTR1 gene was inhibited by mRNA antisense in bacterial cells. CONCLUSION Expression of PTR1 gene in sense plasmid was inhibited successfully by antisense plasmid.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Kheirandish
- Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - M Bandehpour
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Biotechnology Department, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Mahboudi
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Mohebali
- Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - B Kazemi
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Biotechnology Department, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences Tehran, Iran
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20
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Maleki SH, Athari A, Haghighi A, Taghipour N, Gohardehi SH, Tabaei SS. Species identification of birds nasal trichobilharzia in sari, north of iran. Iran J Parasitol 2012; 7:82-5. [PMID: 23323095 PMCID: PMC3537472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2012] [Accepted: 09/21/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cercarial dermatitis is known as an endemic parasitic disease in North of Iran, a hypersensitive skin reaction to the penetration of nonhuman schistosome larvae into human skin. In recent studies in this region, final and intermediate hosts were recognized and Trichobilharzia was identified as the main causative agent of cercarial dermatitis in this region, but to date the parasite species haven't been identified. Therefore this study was performed to species identification of nasal Trichobilharzia in infected birds for the first time. METHODS A total of 45 Anas clypeata birds identified as final host, were collected from Sari in North of Iran and infected nasal tissues analyzed using molecular techniques. Genomic DNA was isolated by phenol/chloroform extraction method and ITS region of rDNA were amplified with specific primers its5Trem and its4Trem, then sequenced area were compared with existing records in GenBank. RESULTS Twelve samples were infected with Trichobilharzia and results of PCR reaction indicated that all of them belonged to T. regenti. The sequence alignment of present work isolates and those deposited in GenBank showed differences in nucleotide sequences of repeat region in ITS1. CONCLUSION Trichobilharzia regenti is the most frequent parasite of Anatid birds in North of Iran. This corresponds to the distribution of this parasite along the flyway of migratory birds, which annually migrate from Siberia and northern countries of Caspian Sea to wintering areas in southern regions of it.
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Affiliation(s)
- SH Maleki
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
| | - A Athari
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
| | - N Taghipour
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
| | - SH Gohardehi
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University, M. C., Sari, Iran
| | - S Seyyed Tabaei
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
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21
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Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad E, Azimirad M, Nochi Z, Romani S, Tajbakhsh M, Rostami-Nejad M, Haghighi A, Zali MR. Sequence Diversity in tRNA Gene Locus A-L among Iranian Isolates of Entamoeba dispar. Iran J Parasitol 2012; 7:97-103. [PMID: 23133479 PMCID: PMC3488828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2011] [Accepted: 11/25/2011] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A number of methods for detecting diversity in Entamoeba have been described over the years. In the present study the genetic polymorphism of noncoding locus A-L was analyzed using PCR and sequencing in order to clarify the genotypic differences among E. dispar isolates. METHODS A total of 28 E. dispar from patients with gastrointestinal symptoms were determined and the genomic DNA was extracted directly from stool. For genotype analysis; Locus A-L was amplified by PCR and PCR products were sequenced. The sequences obtained were edited manually and aligned using Gene Runner software. RESULTS With sequencing of PCR products a reliable genetic diversity in size, number and position of the repeat units were observed among the Iranian E. dispar isolates in locus A-L gene. Sequences showed variation in length from 448bp to 507bp and seven distinct types were identified. CONCLUSION The genetic diversity of loci like A-L shows them to be suitable for epidemiological studies such as the characterization of the routes of transmission of these parasites in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Nazemalhosseini-Mojarad
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author:Fax: + 98 21 22432517, E-mail:
| | - M Azimirad
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Z Nochi
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Romani
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Tajbakhsh
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Rostami-Nejad
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Medical Parasitology & Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - MR Zali
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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22
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Solgi R, Niyyati M, Haghighi A, Mojarad EN. Occurrence of Thermotolerant Hartmannella vermiformis and Naegleria Spp. in Hot Springs of Ardebil Province, Northwest Iran. Iran J Parasitol 2012; 7:47-52. [PMID: 23109945 PMCID: PMC3469187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Geothermal waters could be suitable niches for thermophilic free living amoebae including Naegleria and Hartmannella. Ardebil Province, northwest Iran is popular for having many hot springs for recreational and health purposes activity. The present research is the first molecular based investigation regarding the presence of Naegleria and Hartmannella in the hot springs of Ardebil Province in Iran. METHODS Overall, 30 water samples were taken from waters of thermal hot springs in Ardebil Province, Iran during 2010-2011. All collected samples were transferred to Dept. of Parasitology and Mycology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. Cultivation of concentrated water samples was performed using culture-enrichment method. Cloning of the target amoebae was obtained and morphological and molecular analysis was done using page key combined with two sets of primers, respectively. Sequence analysis and homology search was used for strains identification. RESULTS Of 30 water samples, 8 (26.7%) were positive for thermotolerant Vahlkampfiids and Hartmannella based on morphological characteristics of vegetative form and double walled cysts. Cloning of the target amoebae were done successfully. Sequencing of the positive isolates revealed that the strains belonged to Naegleria (N. carteri and N. spp) and H. vermiformis. CONCLUSION The result highlights a need for improved filtration and disinfection and periodic monitoring of recreational thermal waters in order to prevent disease related to free- living amoebae. This is the first comprehensive molecular study of thermophilic Naegleria and Hartmannella in hot springs of Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Solgi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Niyyati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author:Tel: +989122407432, E-mail:
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - E Nazemalhosseini Mojarad
- Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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23
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Jalallou N, Bandehpour M, Khazan H, Haghighi A, Kazemi B. Evaluation of Recombinant SAG1 Protein for Detection of Toxoplasma gondii Specific Immunoglobulin M by ELISA Test. Iran J Parasitol 2012; 7:17-21. [PMID: 23323087 PMCID: PMC3537471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2012] [Accepted: 09/15/2012] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Toxoplasmosis is a serious disease in immunocompromised patients and pregnant women. Differentiation of acute and chronic infection is a major challenge in serodiagnosis of the disease. Since the aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic utility of recombinant SAG1 (rec-SAG1) for the detection of Toxoplasma-specific IgM antibodies in human sera, by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). METHODS The purified recombinant protein SAG1 was applied in house ELISA test and the ability of it in binding to specific immunoglobulin M in 30 serum samples of acute infected patients was evaluated. The results obtained by assays with the recombinant SAG1 and standard commercial assays were compared. RESULTS The sensitivity and specificity of in house ELISA compared to a standard commercial ELISA (com-ELISA) were 80% and 90%, respectively. CONCLUSION It was concluded that the rec-SAG1 could be an alternative marker for detection of anti Toxoplasma-specific IgM and diagnosis of acute infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Jalallou
- Dept. of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Medicine, Army Medical Science University, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Bandehpour
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - H Khazan
- Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - B Kazemi
- Dept. of Biotechnology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Centers, Shahid Beheshti University, of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author:Tel.: 0098 21 22439956, ,
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24
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Kheirandish F, Tarahi MJ, Haghighi A, Nazemalhosseini- Mojarad E, Kheirandish M. Prevalence of intestinal parasites in bakery workers in khorramabad, lorestan iran. Iran J Parasitol 2011; 6:76-83. [PMID: 22347316 PMCID: PMC3279910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2011] [Accepted: 10/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Food contamination may occur through production, processing, distribution and preparation. In Iran especially in Khorramabad, 33° 29' 16" North, 48° 21' 21" East, due to kind of nutrition, culture and economic status of people, bread is a part of the main meal and the consumption of bread is high. In this study, the bakery workers were studied for determining of intestinal parasites prevalence. METHODS The study was carried out during September to November 2010 in Khorramabad. All the 278 bakeries and the bakery workers including 816 people were studied in a census method and their feces were examined for the presence of parasites by direct wet-mount, Lugol's iodine solution, and formaldehyde-ether sedimentation, trichrome staining, and single round PCR (For discrimination of Entamoeba spp). RESULTS Ninety-six (11.9%) stool specimens were positive for different intestinal parasites. Intestinal parasites included Giardia lamblia 3.7%, Entamoeba coli 5.5%, Blastocystis sp. 2.1%, Entamoeba dispar 0.4%, Hymenolepis nana 0.1%, and Blastocystis sp. 0.1%. CONCLUSION In order to reduce the contamination in these persons, some cases such as stool exam every three months with concentration methods, supervision and application of accurate health rules by health experts, training in transmission of parasites are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Kheirandish
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran,Corresponding author: Tel/Fax: +98 661 6200133, E-mail:
| | - MJ Tarahi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran
| | - E Nazemalhosseini- Mojarad
- Department of Foodborne & Diarrhea Disease, Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran
| | - M Kheirandish
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics & Pharmaceutical Management, School of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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25
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Lasjerdi Z, Niyyati M, Haghighi A, Zaeri F, Nazemalhosseini Mojarad E. First report of vannellidae amoebae (vannella spp.) isolated from biofilm source. Iran J Parasitol 2011; 6:84-9. [PMID: 22347317 PMCID: PMC3279898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2011] [Accepted: 11/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Members of the Vannellidae family are free-living amoebae (FLA) distributed mainly in water and soil sources. The present study reports the first isolation of this genus in the biofilm source from hospital environment in Tehran, Iran. METHODS Biofilm samples were collected from hospital environment. Cultivation was performed in non-nutrient agar covered with a heat-killed Escherichia coli. Cloning of the suspected amoebae was done. PCR amplification and Homology analysis using the Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLASTn) was performed to search for the most similar reference sequences. RESULTS Microscopic examination showed numerous fan-shaped amoebae and peculiar cysts different to the usual shape of typical FLA. Sequence analysis of the PCR- product revealed that the suspected amoebae are highly homologous with Vannella spp. gene (99% identity and 100% query coverage) available in the gene bank database. CONCLUSION Although Vannella spp. is not proved to be pathogenic itself, but they are capable of harboring pathogenic intracellular organisms such as Microsporidian parasites. Thus, identification of such amoebae can be of clinical importance, as they could lead to transmission of other pathogens to human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Lasjerdi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Niyyati
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
,Corresponding author: Tel: +989122407432; Fax: +982122294951, E-mail:
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - F Zaeri
- School of Paramedical Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - E Nazemalhosseini Mojarad
- Research Center for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Taghipour N, Nazemalhosseini- Mojarad E, Haghighi A, Rostami- Nejad M, Romani S, Keshavarz A, Alebouyeh M, Zali MR. Molecular epidemiology of cryptosporidiosis in Iranian children, tehran, iran. Iran J Parasitol 2011; 6:41-5. [PMID: 22347312 PMCID: PMC3279909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2011] [Accepted: 10/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryptosporidium is a worldwide protozoan parasite and one of the most common causes of infection and diarrhea in humans and cattle. The aim of the present study was determination of subtypes of Cryptosporidium among children with diarrhea in Tehran by sequence analysis of the highly polymorphic 60-kDa glycoprotein (GP60) gene. METHODS Fecal samples were collected from 794 diarrheic children. Initial identification of Cryptosporidium was carried out on stool samples by Ziehl-Neelsen acid-fast staining method. DNA was extracted from positive microscopically samples and Cryptosporidium genotypes and subtypes were determined, accordingly. RESULTS Out of 794 collected samples, 19 (2.40%) were positive for Cryptosporidium oocysts. Sequences analysis of GP60 gene showed that 17 (89.47%) of the positive isolates were Cryptosporidium parvum and 2 (10.52%) were C. hominis. All subtypes of C. parvum isolates belonged to allele families IIa (6/17) and IId (11/17). The most common allele in all 17 isolates belonged to IId A20G1a (41.18%). A22G1 (IF) subtype was detected in two C. hominis isolates of the children. CONCLUSION The predominancy of C. parvum species (specially, IId A20G1a subtype) in current study underlines the importance of zoonotic Cryptosporidium transmission in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Taghipour
- Dept. of Parasitology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author: Tel: + 98 21 22432518, Fax: + 98 21 22432517, E-mail:
| | - E Nazemalhosseini- Mojarad
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Dept. of Parasitology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Rostami- Nejad
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - S Romani
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - A Keshavarz
- Dept. of Parasitology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Alebouyeh
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - MR Zali
- Research Institute for Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Iran
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Nazar M, Haghighi A, Niyyati M, Eftekhar M, Tahvildar-Biderouni F, Taghipour N, Abadi A, Nazemalhosseini Mojarad E, Athari A. Genotyping of Acanthamoeba isolated from water in recreational areas of Tehran, Iran. J Water Health 2011; 9:603-608. [PMID: 21976207 DOI: 10.2166/wh.2011.152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
A comprehensive survey assessing the presence of Acanthamoeba was conducted on 50 samples from water sources in parks and public squares from 22 municipal districts of Tehran, Iran. The prevalence and genotypes of Acanthamoeba were determined by PCR and the PCR fragments of ribosomal RNA genes sequenced. Sixteen (32%) samples were positive for Acanthamoeba spp. Sequence analysis revealed that the positive isolates belonged to the T4 and T5 genotypes. Fourteen isolates (87.5%) were T4, and two (12.5%) were T5. Acanthamoeba may be a problematic organism for contact lens wearers and for immunocompromised individuals. In Iran, Acanthamoeba keratitis has increased in recent years, mainly due to poor hygiene in contact lens wearers. A thorough survey for the prevalence of this amoeba could have a significant role in prevention of disease. This is the first report of the T5 genotype from water in recreational areas of Tehran.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Nazar
- Department of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Mahmoudi MR, Ashrafi K, Abedinzadeh H, Tahvildar-Bideruni F, Haghighi A, Bandehpour M, Taghipour Lailabadi N, Kazemi B. Development of sensitive detection of cryptosporidium and giardia from surface water in iran. Iran J Parasitol 2011; 6:43-51. [PMID: 22347296 PMCID: PMC3279887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2010] [Accepted: 07/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The protozoan parasites Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia are known to occur widely in both raw and drinking waters. They are two of the causative agents of waterborne outbreaks of gastroenteritis throughout the world. In the present study, a PCR assay and FA were developed for detection of Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cyst in environmental samples. METHODS We have detected Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts and Giardia cysts in seeded and unseeded environmental water samples by PCR method. Water samples were spiked with oocysts (50, 100,300,500) and filtrated with a 1.2-µm pore size cellulose nitrate and follow by DNA extraction and purification by QIAamp DNA mini kit. Nested-PCR assay amplified an 850 bp fragment of 18s rRNA gene specific for Cryptosporidium and 435 bp fragment of glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) target gene for Giardia. Also many river water from north of Iran, be checked by these methods. RESULTS Cryptosporidium and Giardia DNAs were detected in seeded water sample and Giardia was detected in all 5 water samples from river in north of Iran by nested- PCR and FA. Also in one river water sample, Cryptosporidium was detected. CONCLUSION This protocol is effective for detection of these waterborne parasites in treated and untreated water samples. This study can also serve as a platform for further investigations and research water source in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- MR Mahmoudi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Fasciolosis & Parasitic disease Center Research, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - K Ashrafi
- Fasciolosis & Parasitic disease Center Research, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | - H Abedinzadeh
- Tehran Province Water & Wastewater (TPWW), Tehran, Iran
| | - F Tahvildar-Bideruni
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Bandehpour
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - N Taghipour Lailabadi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - B Kazemi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author: Tel/Fax: +9821 22439956;
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Haghighi A, Mahboubi A, Abrahamowicz M, Leonard G, Perron M, Richer L, Veillette S, Gaudet D, Paus T, Pausova Z. Prenatal exposure to maternal cigarette smoking may increase the risk for obesity through fetal programming of energy and fat intake. Can J Diabetes 2011. [DOI: 10.1016/s1499-2671(11)52153-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Jalallou N, Bandepour M, Khazan H, Haghighi A, Abdollahi S, Kazemi B. Recombinant SAG1 Antigen to Detect Toxoplasma gondii Specific Immunoglobulin G in Human Sera by ELISA Test. Iran J Parasitol 2010; 5:1-9. [PMID: 22347238 PMCID: PMC3279830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2009] [Accepted: 05/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although some serological tests for the detection of Toxoplasma gondii-specific immunoglobulin are commercially available, better diagnostic tools are needed. The aim of present study was to evaluate the usefulness of the recombinant Toxoplasma gondii SAG1 antigen for the recognition of toxoplasmosis by ELISA. METHODS This study was conducted in Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Centers, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran in 2008-2009. Surface antigen 1 (SAG1), a tachyzoite stage-specific protein, was subcloned into an expression vector and was subsequently transformed into BL21 (DE3) pLysS competent bacterial cells. After inducing expression of the recombinant antigen, the protein product was purified using Ni-affinity chromatography. The immunoreactivity of recombinant SAG1 (rSAG1) was analyzed by SDS-PAGE and western blotting. The reactivity of the rec-SAG1 protein was evaluated using an ELISA. RESULT Sensitivity and specificity of the generated recombinant-ELISA (rec-ELISA) compared to a commercially available ELISA (com-ELISA) were 88.4% and 88%, respectively. CONCLUSION Recombinant SAG1 produced in E. coli is a promising antigen that can be used in diagnostic assays for the detection of specific antibodies against T. gondii.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Jalallou
- Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran
| | - M Bandepour
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Centers, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran
| | - H Khazan
- Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran
| | - Sh Abdollahi
- Dept. of Medical Microbiology, School of Medicine, Rafsanjan University, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - B Kazemi
- Dept. of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran,Cellular and Molecular Biology Research Centers, Shahid Beheshti University, M.C., Tehran, Iran,Corresponding author: Fax: +98 21 22439956,
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Eftekhar M, Athari A, Haghighi A, Mosaffa N, Shahram F, Abadi A. Seroprevalence of Acanthamoeba Antibodies in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients by IFAT, Tehran, Iran 2007. Iran J Parasitol 2010; 5:35-40. [PMID: 22347233 PMCID: PMC3279823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2009] [Accepted: 01/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This preliminary study was conducted to discriminate the prevalence of Acanthamoeba antibodies in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients and healthy controls to analyze the correlation between these two groups. METHODS From October 2006 to August 2007 a total of 121 serum samples from RA patients attending the Rheumatolgy Department at Shariati Hospital in Tehran were obtained and stored at -20°C until using by indirect fluorescent-antibody test (IFAT). RA was diagnosed according to the American Collage of Rheumatology classification criteria. The organism used in this study was isolated from various water resources in Tehran, Iran cultured axenically and then went on a PCR assay based on 18S rRNA to identify the genus Acanthomoeba. Indirect immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) staining of serum samples was carried out to detect anti Acanthomoeba antibodies. RESULTS In culture, out of 22 samples, 13(59%) were grown in xenic but only two in axenic medium. PCR amplified a 904bp fragment, specific for Acanthamoeba. Of examined serum samples, Acanthamoeba antibodies were present in 70 (57.8%) and 52 (41.2%), respectively. The highest titer of antibodies (1:320) was detected in one patient with RA. CONCLUSION Our study supports the hypothesis that some parasitic microorganisms can involve and contribute toward the development of rheumatoid syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Eftekhar
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
| | - A Athari
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
| | - A Haghighi
- Dept. of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
| | - N Mosaffa
- Dept. of Immunology, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
| | - F Shahram
- Rheumatology Research Center, Tehran University for Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - A Abadi
- Dept. of Community & Health, Shahid Beheshti University, M. C., Tehran, Iran
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Haghighi A, Rasti S, Nazemalhosseini Mojarad E, Kazemi B, Bandehpour M, Nochi Z, Hooshyar H, Rezaian M. Entamoeba dispar: genetic diversity of Iranian isolates based on serine-rich Entamoeba dispar protein gene. Pak J Biol Sci 2009; 11:2613-8. [PMID: 19630212 DOI: 10.3923/pjbs.2008.2613.2618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The nucleotide sequences of Serine-Rich Entamoeba histolytica Protein (SREHP) gene have already exhibited stable and significant polymorphism in the gene studies. Serine-rich protein is also present and polymorphic in Entamoeba dispar which called SREDP. The polymorphism of the Serine-Rich Entamoeba dispar Protein (SREDP) gene among 8 isolates obtained from Iranian cyst carriers were analyzed by a nested PCR-RFLP followed by sequencing of the PCR products. From those isolates, six distinct DNA patterns were observed after PCR-RFLP of the nested PCR, whereas sequencing showed 8 different patterns among the isolates. The results demonstrate an extensive genetic variability among Iranian E. dispar isolates. The repeat-containing region of the SREDP was found extensively polymorphic in size, number and order of repeat units. Genetic diversity of Iranian E. dispar isolates based on the SREDP was more polymorphic in comparison of Serine-Rich Entamoeba histolytica Protein (SREHP) of the E. histolytica isolates as well as were different from a few known SREDP genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Haghighi
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University, Medical Campus, Tehran, Iran
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Haghighi A, Behnia M, Tabaei SS. P245 Inhibitory effect of Iranian Thymus vulgaris extracts on in vitro growth of Entamoeba histolytka. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-8579(09)70464-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Owlia MB, Salimzadeh A, Alishiri G, Haghighi A. Comparison of two doses of corticosteroid in epidural steroid injection for lumbar radicular pain. Singapore Med J 2007; 48:241-5. [PMID: 17342295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low back pain and lumbar radicular pain are the leading causes of job loss worldwide. Therapeutic approaches to lumbar radicular pain, including sciatica and spinal canal stenosis, are diverse. Many clinicians use 80 mg long-acting glucocorticoids in epidural steroid injections (ESI). The aim of this study is to compare the clinical response of 80 mg versus 40 mg methylprednisolone in ESI. METHODS 84 patients with newly exacerbated lumbar radicular pain were randomly al located into two groups. 43 patients under went ESI with 80 mg Depo-Medrol and 41 age- and sex-matched cases received 40 mg Depo-Medrol as the comparison group. The pain in the second week, and every month thereafter was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS). RESULTS Remarkable improvement in one month VAS occurred in 64 cases (75 percent) from both groups. VAS values between 80 mg and 40 mg groups were comparable in the two-week (p-value is 0.827) and three-month (p-value is greater than 0.746) post-injection periods. Slightly better results were shown in patients in the 40 mg group after one month. CONCLUSION In the case of lumbar radicular pain, ESI with low dose (40 mg) methylprednisolone is as effective as high dose (80 mg) with comparable results and less adverse profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- M B Owlia
- Department of Internal Medicine, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi General Hospital, Safaeieh, Yazd, Iran.
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Nazemallhoseini-mojarad E, Mesgariyan F, Haghighi A, Zali M. R2273 Prevalence of enteric parasites in people with and without gastrointestinal symptoms in Gonbad, Iran. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-8579(07)72112-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Haghighi A, Dinarvand A. 246 COMPARISION OF SPINAL ANALGESIA WITH LIDOCAINE PLUS BUPRENORPHINE AND LIDOCAINE ALONE ON PATIENTS PAIN. Eur J Pain 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1090-3801(06)60249-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Khalifa SAM, Imai E, Kobayashi S, Haghighi A, Hayakawa E, Takeuchi T. Growth-promoting effect on iron-sulfur proteins on axenic cultures ofEntamoeba dispar. Parasite 2006; 13:51-8. [PMID: 16605067 DOI: 10.1051/parasite/2006131051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A growth-promoting factor (GPF) that promotes the growth of Entamoeba dispar under axenic culture conditions was found in fractions of mitochondria (Mt), hydrogenosomes (Hg) and chloroplasts (Cp) obtained from cells of six different protozoan, mammalian and plant species. We were able to extract the GPF from the Cp-rich leaf cells of a plant (spiderwort: Commelina communis L.) in an acetone-soluble fraction as a complex of chlorophyll with low molecular weight proteins (molecular weight [MW] approximately 4,600). We also found that on treatment with 0.6% complexes of 2-mercapthoethanol (2ME), complexes of chlorophyll-a with iron-sulphur (Fe-S) proteins (e.g., ferredoxins [Fd] from spinach and Clostridium pasteurianum) and noncomplex rubredoxin (Rd) from C. posteurianum have a growth-promoting effect on E. dispar. These findings suggest that E. dispar may lack a sufficient quantity of some essential components of Fe-S proteins, such as Fe-S center.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A M Khalifa
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Haghighi A, Rezaeian M. Detection of serum antibody to Entameba histolytica in various population samples of amebic infection using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Parasitol Res 2005; 97:209-12. [PMID: 15997409 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-005-1418-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2004] [Accepted: 04/25/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Microscopic identification of Entameba histolytica in stool is insensitive to differentiate this pathogenic ameba from morphologically identical Entameba dispar. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method was applied for diagnosing amebiasis by detection of E. histolytica antibody. A total of 258 sample sera were analyzed from five different groups including amebiasis patients, E. histolytica/E. dispar asymptomatic cyst carriers, patients clinically presumed to have intestinal and extra-intestinal amebiasis and healthy control. From 51 E. histolytica/E. dispar cysts passers identified by microscopy and culture, a positive anti-amebic antibody was measured only for eight specimens (15.6%) and 43 cyst carriers showed an absorbance less than cut-off likely due to E. dispar infection. These findings suggest usefulness of ELISA method in differentiation of Entameba species, in clinical laboratories less equipped with biological and biochemical methods or antigen capture kits.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Haghighi
- Department of Parasitology, School of Medicine, Shaheed Beheshti University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, P.O. Box 19395-4719, Evin, Tehran, Iran.
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Gjerset R, Haghighi A, Lebedeva S, Mercola D. Gene therapy approaches to sensitization of human prostate carcinoma to cisplatin by adenoviral expression of p53 and by antisense jun kinase oligonucleotide methods. Methods Mol Biol 2002; 175:495-520. [PMID: 11462854 DOI: 10.1385/1-59259-235-x:495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- R Gjerset
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, San Diego, CA, USA
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Affiliation(s)
- S Kobayashi
- Department of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo, Japan.
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Abstract
This study examines how accessibility to cisplatin on various genomic regions in T47D breast cancer cells, including the retinoic acid receptor beta gene promoter and coding region and the dihydrofolate reductase gene promoter and coding region, is affected by treatment of the cells with 9-cis retinoic acid, a treatment that activates the retinoic acid receptor beta gene promoter in these cells. A PCR-based assay was used to measure cisplatin adduct density based on the inhibition of PCR amplification of templates from cisplatin treated versus untreated cells. Treatment of cells with 9-cis retinoic acid enhanced accessibility to cisplatin on the retinoic acid receptor beta gene promoter region, but not on the coding regions of that gene nor on the dihydrofolate reductase gene promoter or coding regions, where accessibilities to cisplatin remained 2-4 times lower than on the activated retinoic acid receptor beta gene promoter. Examination of smaller regions within this promoter region showed a repression of platination in the 500 bp region surrounding the TATA box in cells prior to 9-cis retinoic acid treatment, which was abolished following promoter activation. Differences in sequence composition between the various regions could not fully account for differences in platination, suggesting that structural features such as bends in retinoic acid receptor beta gene promoter DNA following gene activation, create energetically favorable sites for platination, and contribute to the cytotoxicity of the drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Haghighi
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, San Diego, California 92121, USA
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Gjerset RA, Lebedeva S, Haghighi A, Turla ST, Mercola D. Inhibition of the Jun kinase pathway blocks DNA repair, enhances p53-mediated apoptosis and promotes gene amplification. Cell Growth Differ 1999; 10:545-54. [PMID: 10470854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
Abstract
We have previously shown, by expression of a nonphosphorylatable dominant inhibitor mutant of c-Jun [cJun(S63A,S73A)], that activation of the NH2-terminal Jun kinase/stress-activated protein kinase by genotoxic damage is required for DNA repair. Here, we examine the consequences of inhibition of DNA repair on p53-induced apoptosis in T98G cells, which are devoid of endogenous wild-type p53. Relative to parental or wild-type c-Jun-expressing control cells, mutant Jun-expressing T98G clones show similar growth rates and plating efficiencies. However, these cells are unable to repair DNA (PCR-stop assays) and exhibit up to an 80-fold increased methotrexate-induced colony formation due to amplification of the dihydrofolate reductase gene. Moreover, the mutant c-Jun clones exhibit increased apoptosis and elevated bax:bcl2 ratios on expression of wild-type p53. These results indicate that inhibition of DNA repair leads to accumulation of DNA damage in tumor cells with unstable genomes and this, in turn, enhances p53mediated apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- R A Gjerset
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, San Diego, California 92121, USA.
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Haghighi A, Rezaeian M. Evaluation of five different media for xenic cultivation of entamoeba histolytica. Parasitol Int 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s1383-5769(98)80842-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Ensafi AA, Haghighi A. Spectrophotometric reaction rate method for the determination of molybdenum by its catalytic effect on the oxidation of pyrogallol red with hydrogen peroxide. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1998. [DOI: 10.1007/s002160050754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Potapova O, Haghighi A, Bost F, Liu C, Birrer MJ, Gjerset R, Mercola D. The Jun kinase/stress-activated protein kinase pathway functions to regulate DNA repair and inhibition of the pathway sensitizes tumor cells to cisplatin. J Biol Chem 1997; 272:14041-4. [PMID: 9162025 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.272.22.14041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 181] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
We have studied the role of Jun/stress-activated protein kinase (JNK/SAPK) pathway in DNA repair and cisplatin resistance in T98G glioblastoma cells. JUN/SAPK is activated by DNA damage and phosphorylates serines 63 and 73 in the N-terminal domain of c-Jun, which is known to increase its transactivation properties. We show that treatment of T98G glioblastoma cells with cisplatin but not the transplatin isomer activates JNK/SAPK about 10-fold. T98G cells, which are highly resistent to cisplatin (IC50 = 140 +/- 13 microM), modified to express a nonphosphorylatable dominant negative c-Jun (termed dnJun) exhibit decreased viability following treatment with cisplatin, but not transplatin, in proportion (rPearson = 0.98) to the level of dnJun expressed leading to a 7-fold decreased IC50. Similar effects are observed in U87 cells, PC-3 cells, and MCF-7 cells, as well as in T98G cells modified to express TAM-67, a known inhibitor of c-Jun function. In contrast, no sensitization effect was observed in cells modified to express wild-type c-Jun. Furthermore, through quantitative polymerase chain reaction-stop assays, we show that dnJun expressing cells were inhibited in repair of cisplatin adducts (p = 0.55), whereas repair is readily detectable (p = 0.003) in parental cells. These observations indicate that the JNK/SAPK pathway is activated by cisplatin-induced DNA damage and that this response is required for DNA repair and viability following cisplatin treatment. Regulation of DNA repair following genotoxic stress may be a normal physiological role of the JNK/SAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Potapova
- Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, San Diego, California 92121, USA
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Slack RS, Belliveau DJ, Rosenberg M, Atwal J, Lochmüller H, Aloyz R, Haghighi A, Lach B, Seth P, Cooper E, Miller FD. Adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of the tumor suppressor, p53, induces apoptosis in postmitotic neurons. J Cell Biol 1996; 135:1085-96. [PMID: 8922388 PMCID: PMC2133379 DOI: 10.1083/jcb.135.4.1085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Programmed cell death is an ongoing process in both the developing and the mature nervous system. The tumor suppressor gene, p53, can induce apoptosis in a number of different cell types. Recently, the enhanced expression of p53 has been observed during acute neurological disease. To determine whether p53 overexpression could influence neuronal survival, we used a recombinant adenovirus vector carrying wild type p53 to transduce postmitotic neurons. A control consisting of the same adenovirus vector background but carrying the lacZ reporter expression cassette was used to establish working parameters for the effective genetic manipulation of sympathetic neurons. We have found that recombinant adenovirus can be used at titers sufficiently high (10 to 50 multiplicity of infection) to transduce the majority of the neuronal population without perturbing survival, electrophysiological function, or cytoarchitecture. Moreover, we demonstrate that overexpression of wild type p53 is sufficient to induce programmed cell death in neurons. The observation that p53 is capable of inducing apoptosis in postmitotic neurons has major implications for the mechanisms of cell death in the traumatized mature nervous system.
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Affiliation(s)
- R S Slack
- Centre for Neuronal Survival, Montreal Neurological Institute, McGill University, Canada
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Abstract
5-Hydroxytryptamine3 (5-HT3) receptors are the only known monoamine receptors mediating fast excitatory responses in mammalian neurons. Their primary structure as well as their electrophysiological and pharmacological properties show a phylogenetic relation to nicotinic acetylcholine, GABAA, and glycine receptors. As a prototypical member of this gene superfamily, we investigated the membrane topology of functional homomeric 5-HT3 receptors by using epitope tagging of the channel subunits expressed in heterologous systems. Visualization of 5-HT3 receptors in transfected COS-7 cells, either in western blot (molecular mass 61.2 +/- 0.8 kDa) or in situ, was performed with previously characterized antibodies recognizing artificial epitopes as well as with anti-fusion protein antibodies directed against a wild-type receptor intracellular domain. The extracellular location of the distal C-terminal tagged domain demonstrates the presence of a fourth transmembrane domain in 5-HT3 serotonin-gated channels. In this region, the significant homology between members of this class of neurotransmitter-gated channels suggests strongly that they have a common transmembrane organization basically different from glutamate-gated and ATP-gated channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Mukerji
- Neurobiology Group, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Séguéla P, Haghighi A, Soghomonian JJ, Cooper E. A novel neuronal P2x ATP receptor ion channel with widespread distribution in the brain. J Neurosci 1996; 16:448-55. [PMID: 8551329 PMCID: PMC6578647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
There is strong evidence that ATP acts as an excitatory neurotransmitter in the periphery, yet little is known about fast central ATP-mediated transmission. We report here the molecular cloning of a novel neuronal ionotropic ATP receptor of the P2x subtype (P2x3) isolated from rat brain. This central P2x channel subunit has significant amino acid homology with two recently cloned ATP-gated channels from rat smooth muscle (47%) and pheochromocytoma PC12 cells (37%). P2x3 receptor contains the characteristic 10 conserved cysteines of ATP-gated channels, a putative extracellular region homologous to the Walker type A motif found in various nucleotide-binding proteins, and two potential sites for phosphorylation by protein kinase C. Homomeric receptor P2x3 channels expressed in Xenopus oocytes produce rapid cation-selective purinergic currents that are potentiated by zinc ions and reversibly blocked by the P2x antagonists suramin, Reactive Blue 2, and pyridoxalphosphate-6-axophenyl-2U,4U-disulfonic acid. P2x3-receptor subunit mRNA is found in the Purkinje cells and the granule cells of the cerebellum as well as in CA3 pyramidal cells of the hippocampus that are innervated by zinc-rich axon terminals of mossy fibers. Our results suggest that fast excitatory synaptic transmission mediated by zinc-sensitive ATP-gated channels is widespread in mammalian brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Séguéla
- Unité de Neurobiologie, Institut Neurologique de Montréal, Université McGill, Québec, Canada
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