A comprehensive review on the role of chemokines in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) as a chronic inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) is thought to be caused by the abnormal induction of immune responses. Chemokines as molecules that can engage leukocytes into the location of inflammation, actively participate in the pathogenesis of MS. Several members of this family of chemo attractants have been shown to be dysregulated in the peripheral blood, cerebrospinal fluid or CNS lesions of MS patients. Studies in animal models of MS particularly experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis have indicated the critical roles of chemokines in the pathophysiology of MS. In the current review, we summarize the data regarding the role of CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CCL11, CCL20, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL8, CXCL10, CXCL12 and CXCL13 in the pathogenesis of MS.

miRNA signature in glioblastoma: Potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are transcripts with sizes of about 22 nucleotides, which are produced through a multistep process in the nucleus and cytoplasm. These transcripts modulate the expression of their target genes through binding with certain target regions, particularly 3' suntranslated regions. They are involved in the pathogenesis of several kinds of cancers, such as glioblastoma. Several miRNAs, including miR-10b, miR-21, miR-17-92-cluster, and miR-93, have been up-regulated in glioblastoma cell lines and clinical samples. On the other hand, expression of miR-7, miR-29b, miR-32, miR-34, miR-181 family members, and a number of other miRNAs have been decreased in this type of cancer. In the current review, we explain the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of glioblastoma through providing a summary of studies that reported dysregulation of these epigenetic effectors in this kind of brain cancer.

Type 2 diabetes remission rates 1-year post-Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and validation of the DiaRem score: the Ontario Bariatric Network experience

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) is associated with the remission of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). There are a number of scoring systems available that help predict type 2 diabetes remission rates after bariatric surgery; however, relatively few have been validated externally. The DiaRem score, comprised of four preoperative variables (age, haemoglobin A1c [HbA1c], sulfonylurea and insulin-sensitizing agent use and insulin use), allows for the identification of patients who are most likely to have DM remission following RYGB. Our primary objective was to determine the variables predictive of DM remission 1 year post-RYGB, determine how well the DiaRem score predicts DM remission 1 year post-RYGB and identify the optimal cut-off DiaRem score. The study is based on results of RYGB performed across multiple centres in Ontario, Canada, overseen by the Centre for Surgical Invention and Innovation in Hamilton, with direction from the Ontario Bariatric Network. Regression analysis was used to determine the predictive value of demographic and clinical variables and that of the DiaRem score. The optimal DiaRem cut-off score was determined using sensitivity and specificity analysis. Of 3874 patients in the Ontario Bariatric Registry between January 2010 and February 2015, 915 had complete 1-year follow-up data. Among these, 15 were not classified as having DM at baseline and were excluded. Of the remaining 900 patients with type 2 diabetes and who underwent RYGB surgery, 333 (37.0%) had DM remission at 1-year follow-up. Three of four DiaRem variables (age, HbA1c, insulin use), in addition to use of any hypoglycaemic agent, were associated with DM remission. DiaRem score had moderate predictive value. A DiaRem score cut-off of <5 had a sensitivity of 71.8% and specificity of 71.3%. This study provides guidance to clinicians in using the DiaRem score to inform the selection and prioritization of patients to ensure timely access to bariatric surgery for those who are likely to benefit the most.