Spectrum of Beta-Thalassemia Mutations in Potential Carriers with Microcytic Hypochromic Anemia from Mazandaran and Golestan, Northern Provinces of Iran

Introduction

β-Thalassaemia is the most common genetic disorder and is considered as a major public health concern in Iran. Different countrywide studies have shown a heterogeneous mutational basis of β-thalassaemia with different frequencies in each area. This study is aimed at investigating the common and rare mutations in Mazandaran and Golestan, northern provinces of Iran.

Methods

5425 microcytic and hypochromic individuals were investigated from Mazandaran and Golestan provinces. From these, 1323 beta carrier or affected individuals were selected where 938 persons were from Mazandaran and 385 people were from Golestan province, respectively.

Result

53 different mutations were identified, IVSII-1 (G>A) was the most common (59.14%) followed by Cd 22/23/24 (-7 bp) (5.34%), Cd 8 (-AA) (4.93%), Cd30 (G>A) (4.00%), and IVSI-5 (G>C) (3.70%) with a total of 77.11% in Mazandaran Province, respectively. In Golestan Province, IVSI-5 (G>C) was the most frequent (44.62%) followed by IVSII-1 (G>A) (27.18%), Cd 15 (TGG>TAG) (4.36%), Fr 8/9(+G) (3.85%), and Cd 8(-AA) (2.05%) with a total of 82.06%, respectively. From the 53 different mutations, 22 numbers have been observed in both provinces. Two deletions of the beta gene named Sicilian and Asian-Indian have been detected in Mazandaran with a frequency of 0.72% each.

Conclusion

The 53 different mutations identified in this study were the most ever reported mutations in the country. Due to diversity of different ethnic groups, there are many varieties of mutation in beta globin gene in Iran. It could be assumed that both founder effect and natural selection caused by migration from neighboring areas have complemented each other to produce the high frequency of unique alleles within each region.

Association between MUC1 rs4072037 polymorphism and Helicobacter pylori in patients with gastric cancer

Background

The MUC1 gene encodes glycoproteins attached to cell membrane that play a protective role in gastric cancer and protect epithelial surfaces against external factors such as Helicobacter pylori. H. pylori infection can induce a cascade of innate and acquired immune responses in gastric mucosa. Relationship between rs4072037G>A polymorphism of MUC1 gene and increased susceptibility to H. pylori infection aimed to investigate in patients with gastric cancer in Mazandaran, northern Iran.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted on 99 patients with gastric cancer (H. pylori positive and negative) and 98 controls (H. pylori positive and negative) without gastric cancer (confirmed by pathological biopsy samples obtained during endoscopy). H. pylori infection was diagnosed by histological examination using Giemsa staining. Genomic DNA extracted from peripheral blood was analyzed by PCR-RFLP technique.

Results

Analysis of all genetic models showed no significant relationship between rs4072037G>A polymorphism and risk of gastric cancer (GC). The relationship between H. pylori infection and rs4072037G>A polymorphism showed an increased susceptibility to gastric cancer in both positive and negative H. pylori groups (including case and control groups). The genetic model of GA/GG and H. pylori- positive versus GA/GG and H. pylori-negative showed a significantly increased susceptibility to gastric cancer (OR=0.251, CI: 0.128-0.493, P=0.000).

Conclusion

These findings indicate that rs4072037G>A polymorphism may interact with H. pylori infection to increase the risk of GC.

Genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii in meat-producing animals in Iran

BACKGROUND

The consumption of uncooked or undercooked food from infected intermediate hosts can result in Toxoplasma gondii infection in humans. However, few studies have investigated the genetic diversity of this protozoan parasite in Iran. The aim of the present study was to genetically characterize isolates of T. gondii from intermediate host animals in Mazandaran Province, Iran.

METHODS

Blood and heart tissue samples were collected from 204 ruminants, and brain tissue was collected from 335 birds. The prevalence of T. gondii infection in these samples was determined serologically using the modified agglutination test and by conventional PCR assays. Those PCR samples positive for T. gondii DNA and 13 DNA samples extracted from aborted fetuses in a previous study were genotyped with 12 genetic markers using the multilocus-nested PCR-restriction fragment length polymorphism (Mn-PCR-RFLP) technique.

RESULTS

Antibodies for parasites were found in 35.7% of the ruminant (39.1% of sheep and 26.4% of goats) samples and in 51.3% of the bird (100% of geese, 52.3% of free-range chickens and 46% of ducks) samples. Molecular detection by PCR of the repetitive 529-bp DNA fragment revealed contamination of 13.2% of ruminant (14.6% of sheep and 9.4% of goats) samples and of 9.6% of bird (11.1% of chickens, 5.7% of ducks and 0% of geese samples). The results from 30 DNA samples revealed five ToxoDB (genome database for the genus Toxoplasma) PCR-RFLP genotypes, including #1 (Type II), #2 (Type III), #10 (Type I), #27 and #48, with genotype #1 the most predominant.

CONCLUSIONS

As evidenced by the results of this study, ruminants and birds are infected with T. gondii in the region, suggesting that they are likely to be involved in the transmission of T. gondii to humans through meat consumption. The identification of different genotypes may suggest a higher genetic diversity of this parasite in Mazandaran, reflecting local environmental contamination. These results have important public health implications for the prevention and control strategies of infection.

Association between vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism (rs731236) and aggrecan gene VNTR polymorphism with the risk of lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration

BACKGROUND

Low back pain is one of the most common causes of referral to physicians. Lumbar disc degeneration (LDD) is the main cause of back pain in different countries. It seems that genetic factors are more effective than environmental factors in the developing of degenerative phenomena. The aim of this investigation, therefore, was to study the association of the aggrecan gene (ACAN) variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) rs731236 (TaqI) polymorphisms, with lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration in a population in the North of Iran.

METHODS

In this study, 55 patients with symptomatic intervertebral disk degeneration and 55 control subjects were included. VDR gene polymorphism was genotyped by PCR-based RFLP. The isolated DNA was used to genotype the VNTR of ACAN gene via conventional PCR.

RESULTS

For VDR gene polymorphism, the CC genotype (OR=5.337, P=0.019) was significantly higher among the patients compared with the controls, revealing a higher frequency of the C allele in patients compared with controls (OR=2.707, P=0.005). The lower number of frequent repetitions in the VNTR aggrecan gene was associated with a six-time increase of lumbar disc degeneration. Also, high BMI can be considered as an independent factor in the incidence of this disease.

CONCLUSION

Aggrecan gene VNTR polymorphism had an association with degeneration of lumbar intervertebral discs that the shorter VNTR repeats increasing the chance of the disc degeneration in this population in the North of Iran. Moreover, an association between the mutant allele (C) of VDR gene TaqI polymorphism and disc degeneration is found.

Frequency of blaIMP and blaSPM Metallo-β-Lactamase Genes among Carbapenem-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa Clinical Isolates in Sari, North of Iran

INTRODUCTION

Metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs) play a major role in the resistance of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to carbapenems. We investigated the antibiotic susceptibility patterns and frequency of MBLs genes (bla_IMP and bla_SPM) in carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa clinical isolates in Sari, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The isolates were identified using standard microbiological tests, and their antibiotic susceptibility pattern was determined by the disk agar diffusion method according CLSI criteria. Phenotypic identification of MBL-producing strains assessed by the combined disk test (CDT). Then, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect the presence of bla_IMP and bla_SPM genes.

RESULTS

The highest and lowest levels of antibiotic resistance were observed against gentamicin (40%) and piperacillin-tazobactam (13%), respectively. Besides, 40 isolates (40%) had the multi-drug resistant (MDR) phenotype, while 5 (12.5%) MDR isolates were resistant to all antibiotics tested. The results of the CDT showed that among 43 carbapenem non-susceptible clinical isolates of P. aeruginosa, 33 (76.74%) isolates were MBL-producing strains. Also, the frequency of the bla_IMP gene among 43 carbapenem non susceptible isolates was determined to be 6.97%, while none of these isolates carried the bla_SPM gene.

CONCLUSION

Due to the high prevalence of carbapenem-resistant and MDR P. aeruginosa in this study, routine antibiotic susceptibility testing and phenotypic identification of carbapenemase production by this bacterium are necessary for the proper selection of antibiotics.

Correlation of -160C > A and -347GA > G polymorphisms in E-cadherin gene and gastric cancer in north of Iran

BACKGROUND

E-cadherin (CDH1 gene) is a protein involved in cell-cell adhesion. There are reports on the association of -160C > A (rs16260) and -347GA > G (rs5030625) polymorphisms in the 5'-promoter region of the CDH1 gene with tumor development and progression of gastric cancer. This study aimed to examine the potential relationship between these two polymorphisms and gastric cancer in patients from Mazandaran province, Northern Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A case-control study was conducted to test 97 patients and 95 healthy controls. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood followed by polymerase chain reaction amplification. Genotyping analysis was carried out using restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis for two potentially functional polymorphisms.

RESULTS

Heterozygous genotype GA/G versus GA/GA of rs5030625 (-347 GA > G) was found to be associated with increased risk of gastric cancer in the people studied (odds ratio = 5.73, 95% confidence interval = 2.11-15.56, P = 0.001). Furthermore, AA or CA genotype in -160C > A polymorphism did not show any increased risk of gastric cancer (P = 0.559).

CONCLUSION

The present study revealed that GA/G genotype of rs5030625 (-347 GA > G) polymorphism is associated with gastric cancer in Northern Iran.

Evaluation of glutathione S-transferase polymorphism in Iranian patients with type 2 diabetic microangiopathy

Background

Overproduction of reactive oxygen species as a result of hyperglycemia in diabetes mellitus leads to microvascular complications. Glutathione S-transferases play important detoxifying roles with antioxidant potentials. This study aimed to assess whether the glutathione S-transferase M1 and T1 genotypes were associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus microangiopathic complications in the Iranian population.

Results

In this case-control study, the frequencies of null GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotypes were 4/72 (5.56%) and 12/72 (16.67%) respectively, in uncomplicated DM group. The frequencies of null GSTM1 and GSTT1 genotype in complicated DM group were 16/134 (11.94%) and 37/134 (27.61%), respectively. The proportion of GSTM1 null genotypes was higher in diabetic nephropathy compared to non-nephropathy (19.3% vs. 6.04 %, P = 0.006). At GSTT1 locus, patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy had a higher frequency of deletion compared to those of without neuropathy (30.39% vs. 23.49%) (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Selective polymorphisms encoding GSTM1 and GSTT1genes may prove useful as genetic markers to recognize individuals with an increased trend in developing diabetic nephropathy and neuropathy, respectively. This will help better identify individuals at higher risk toward microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes due to genetic susceptibility.

Association of MUC1 5640G>A and PSCA 5057C>T polymorphisms with the risk of gastric cancer in Northern Iran

Background

Gastric cancer is one of the four most common cancer that causing death worldwide. Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) have shown that genetic diversities MUC1 (Mucin 1) and PSCA (Prostate Stem Cell Antigen) genes are involved in gastric cancer. The aim of this study was avaluating the association of rs4072037G > A polymorphism in MUC1 and rs2294008 C > T in PSCA gene with risk of gastric cancer in northern Iran.

Methods

DNA was extracted from 99 formalin fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples of gastric cancer and 96 peripheral blood samples from healthy individuals (sex matched) as controls. Two desired polymorphisms, 5640G > A and 5057C > T for MUC1 and PSCA genes were genotyped using PCR-RFLP method.

Results

The G allele at rs4072037 of MUC1 gene was associated with a significant decreased gastric cancer risk (OR = 0.507, 95% CI: 0.322–0.799, p = 0.003). A significant decreased risk of gastric cancer was observed in people with either AG vs. AA, AG + AA vs. GG and AA+GG vs. AG genotypes of MUC1 polymorphism (OR = 4.296, 95% CI: 1.190–15.517, p = 0.026), (OR = 3.726, 95% CI: 2.033–6.830, p = 0.0001) and (OR = 0.223, 95% CI: 0.120–0.413, p = 0.0001) respectively. Finally, there was no significant association between the PSCA 5057C > T polymorphism and risk of gastric cancer in all genetic models.

Conclusion

Results indicated that the MUC1 5640G > A polymorphism may have protective effect for gastric cancer in the Northern Iran population and could be considered as a potential molecular marker in gastric cancer.

Aldose reductase (AC)n gene polymorphism in Iranian patients with type 2 diabetic microangiopathy; a case-control study

Aim

(AC)n promoter region of the aldose reductase (ALR) genes polymorphism has been associated with diabetic microvascular complications (MVCs). The aim of this study was to find the relationship between dinucleotide repeat (AC)n polymorphisms of the ALR gene and the occurrence of MVCs, such as diabetic retinopathy, neuropathy, and nephropathy in Iranian type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients.

Methods

This prospective case-control study was performed on T2D patients who were categorized into two groups based on the presence or absence of diabetic microangiopathy. All patients were provided informed consent. After extracting genomic DNA, the (AC)n of the ALR gene was determined using Polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Thirteen alleles of the (AC)n gene polymorphism were detected including Z + 16, Z + 14, Z + 8, Z + 6, Z + 4, Z + 2, Z, Z - 2, Z - 4, Z - 6, Z - 8, Z - 10, and Z - 12. The frequency of the Z - 4 allele was significantly higher in patients with retinopathy, nephropathy, and autonomic neuropathy compared with those with long-term uncomplicated diabetes (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.031, respectively). After controlling for baseline risk factors, we found that the carrier of the Z - 4 allele of ALR (AC)n polymorphism had a higher risk of diabetic retinopathy and diabetic nephropathy (P < 0.001). The homozygosity for the Z - 4 allele was found to be associated with diabetic microangiopathy.

Conclusion

Our results showed that ALR (AC)n gene polymorphism in Iranian patients with type 2 diabetes independently, predispose retinal, renal and neural microvascular to diabetic complications.

Knowledge and attitude toward genetic diseases and genetic tests among pre-marriage individuals: A cross-sectional study in northern Iran

Background

Genetic testing has been widely introduced for many hereditary disorders. While the attitudes towards these facilities have been evaluated in many countries, there are only a few reports on the knowledge of and the orientation among Iranians.

Objective

The current study assesses the attitudes and knowledge of pre-marriage individuals toward the availability and use of genetic tests.

Materials and Methods

A comprehensive questionnaire was distributed among 408 marrying individuals. The questions addressed the demographic characteristics along the registration of participant's knowledge, education, and attitude toward genetic testing. The individuals were divided into three groups based on their knowledge: 1) Scored above 80 to 100 were defined as "good" 2) 60 to 80 as "average" 3) less than 60 as "poor" knowledge.

Results

Most participants (86%) believed consanguineous marriages increase the risk of genetic diseases; 82.3% knew that thalassemia is a type of genetic disease, only 33.3% could distinguish prenatal diagnosis (PND) from other laboratory tests. The relationship between the participants' knowledge and their level of education was significant (r░=░0.78, p░<░0.001), age (r= -0.16, p░<░0.01), and urbanity (p░<░0.01). A prominent relationship was observed between the knowledge (r░=░0.64, p░<░0.001) or education (r░=░0.62, p░<░0.001) and people’s desire to use the genetic tests before the wedding ceremony. No significant correlations were found between the participant’s attitude and their ages/urbanity. Most of the individuals agreed to arrange a genetic counseling before marriage (0.94%).

Conclusion

This study revealed that most individuals were interested in using genetic counseling services and genetic tests before marriage.

The Correlation between Phospholipase C Epsilon (PLCE1) Gene Polymorphisms and Risk of Gastric Adenocarcinoma in Iranian Population

Background: Phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCE1) gene harbors different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which can be correlated with the risk of different types of cancers. In this case-control study, the relationship between rs2274223 (A>G), a single nucleotide polymorphism in phospholipase C epsilon gene, (PLCE1) and gastric cancer was evaluated among Iranian patients. Materials and Methods: The PLCE1 rs2274223 polymorphism was genotyped in 60 patients with gastric cancer and 69 control subjects using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR-RFLP) methods. Clinical and pathologic parameters such as tumor characteristics and disease stage were also recorded. Results: There were 48 (80%) male patients and 45 (65.5%) healthy male individuals (p=0.077). About 34 (56.6%) patients were smokers. A family history of gastric cancer was found in 21 (35%) cases. GG genotype was observed among 15% of patients and 8.7% of normals, respectively. There was no significant difference between the AA and AG genotypes. Also, there were no significant correlations between AA, AG or GG genotypes and the risk of gastric cancer, gender, tumor size, tumor stage, grade, as well as tumor location and metastasis. Conclusion: The PLCE1 rs2274223 polymorphism was not correlated with gastric cancer in Iranian population. However, a further comprehensive study with larger sample sizes is needed.

The Correlation between Phospholipase C Epsilon (PLCE1) Gene Polymorphisms and Risk of Gastric Adenocarcinoma in Iranian Population

Background: Phospholipase C epsilon 1 (PLCE1) gene harbors different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), which can be correlated with the risk of different types of cancers. In this case-control study, the relationship between rs2274223 (A>G), a single nucleotide polymorphism in phospholipase C epsilon gene, (PLCE1) and gastric cancer was evaluated among Iranian patients. Materials and Methods: The PLCE1 rs2274223 polymorphism was genotyped in 60 patients with gastric cancer and 69 control subjects using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR-RFLP) methods. Clinical and pathologic parameters such as tumor characteristics and disease stage were also recorded. Results: There were 48 (80%) male patients and 45 (65.5%) healthy male individuals (p=0.077). About 34 (56.6%) patients were smokers. A family history of gastric cancer was found in 21 (35%) cases. GG genotype was observed among 15% of patients and 8.7% of normals, respectively. There was no significant difference between the AA and AG genotypes. Also, there were no significant correlations between AA, AG or GG genotypes and the risk of gastric cancer, gender, tumor size, tumor stage, grade, as well as tumor location and metastasis. Conclusion: The PLCE1 rs2274223 polymorphism was not correlated with gastric cancer in Iranian population. However, a further comprehensive study with larger sample sizes is needed.

Aetiology of livestock fetal mortality in Mazandaran province, Iran

In the farming industry, the productivity of livestock herds depends on the fertility efficiency of animals. The accurate diagnosis of a broad range of aetiological agents causing fetal death is often difficult. Our aim was to assess the prevalence rates of Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, and Brucella spp. infections in ruminant abortion using bacteriological culture and molecular techniques in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran. Samples were collected from 70 aborted sheep, goat, and cattle fetuses between September 2014 and December 2015. Necropsy was performed on all the received samples, and brain tissue and abomasal content were obtained from the aborted fetuses. Protozoan infections were detected by specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and bacterial agents using bacteriological examinations and PCR assay. Infectious pathogens were detected in 22 out of 70 (31.4%) examined fetuses. Moreover, T. gondii, N. caninum, and B. melitensis were verified in 13 (18.6%), four (5.7%), and two (2.85%) samples, respectively. Our results showed that infection with the mentioned pathogenic agents may lead to fetal mortality, which can be a major cause of economic loss. The listed pathogens could be considered important etiological agents of fetal loss in Mazandaran Province, for which appropriate control measures such as vaccination and biosecurity can be implemented to prevent infection and reduce reproductive loss in livestock farms.

Haplotypes inside the beta-globin gene: use as new biomarkers for beta-thalassemia prenatal diagnosis in north of Iran

Background

Beta-thalassemia is common in the Mediterranean area as well as the Middle East and India. Official report in Iran revealed the average prevalence rate of carriers about 4%. More than 20 restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) are known in the beta-globin gene cluster and used in the prenatal diagnosis (PND) services. Some of these locations may have low allele frequency and are not informative in the prenatal diagnosis. The current study aims to find new haplotypes and polymorphisms with high allele frequency in the local population.

Methods

Two thousand three hundred fifty samples (1,321 male and 1,029 female) from the northern Iran, whom suspected to be the carriers either for alpha or beta thalassemia and referred to the local diagnostic laboratory as a routine services were investigated during five years, (2010–2015). The beta-globin gene was sequenced for all samples.

Results

Heterozygosity for five SNPs in the beta-globin gene was calculated separately. 383 individuals (16.29%) showed no sign of nucleotide change in the beta-globin gene sequence. In total, codon2 (C/T) 31.72%, IVSII-16 (C/G) 31.72%, IVSII-74 (G/T) 54.71%, IVSII-81 (C/T) 19.47%, and IVSII-666 (T/C) 31.72% were seen respectively. Although all five polymorphisms showed reasonably high heterozygosity, IVSII-74 (G/T) [GG wild type (36.5%), G/T (54.71%) and TT (8.8%)] revealed the highest heterozygosity rate. Four combinations of these five SNPs were defined as new haplotypes named M1 to M4. ARMS-PCR also were designed and applied to detect IVSII-74 (G/T) nucleotide position.

Conclusions

This study represents an intragenic polymorphism, IVSII-74, a reliable position with high heterozygosity rates in Iranian population for PND analysis.

Trial registration

Retrospectively registered.

A multiplex restriction enzyme-PCR for unequivocal identification and differentiation of Trichostrongylus species in human samples

Trichostrongylus species remain one of the major health challenges in the tropical and summer rainfall regions worldwide. Identification of strongylid species diagnostic methods is vital for obtaining a deep understanding of the epidemiology, population biology, anthelmintic treatment efficacy, and drug resistance in order to design effective parasite control strategies. We evaluated a multiplex RE-PCR for the diagnosis of key Trichostrongylus spp. Genomic DNA amplification of Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Trichostrongylus axei and Trichostrongylus vitrinus was achieved as standard sample using specific primers located in the second internal transcribed spacer (ITSII) of nuclear ribosomal DNA (rDNA). The mentioned method was based on isolation of Trichostrongylus ova from human fecal samples using Willis method, the extraction of ova genomic DNA samples, followed by rDNA ITSII PCR and one-step multiplex RE-PCR using three restriction enzymes of HinfI, DraI, and MseI. The multiplex RE-PCR technique provides a useful tool for discriminating all Trichostrongylus spp., being useful for diagnostic, epidemiological, ecological studies, and control programs. This method is rapid, especially when numerous restriction enzymes are required for species differentiation or identification.

Association between the synonymous variant organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3)-1233G>A and the glycemic response following metformin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes

OBJECTIVES

Organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) as a high-capacity transporter contribute to the metabolism of metformin. The present study was conducted to determine the genotype frequencies of the variant OCT3-1233G>A (rs2292334) in patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (T2D) and its relationship with response to metformin.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study included 150 patients with T2D who were classified into two groups following three months of metformin therapy: responders (by more than 1% reduction in HbA1c from baseline) and nonresponders (less than 1% reduction in HbA1c from baseline). PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) served to genotype OCT3-564G>A variant.

RESULTS

The parameters such as HbA1c (P<0.001) and BMI (P<0.001) in both patients with GA + AA genotype and GG genotype decreased significantly following 3 months of metformin therapy compared with baseline. The mean reduction in HbA1c levels following 3 months was higher in patients with the A allele (0.77% reduction from baseline) than in those with the homozygous G allele (0.54% reduction from baseline). Also, in GA + AA genotypes compared with GG genotypes, the mean reduction in HbA1c values from baseline was 0.34% for responders and 0.14% for non-responders.

CONCLUSION

Considering the roles of genetic variations in the function of metformin transporters, the effect of variations such as 1233G>A in the OCT3, which is a high-capacity transporter widely expressed in various tissues cannot be ignored. Comparing the allele frequencies of OCT3-1233G>A variant in our study and different ethnic populations confirm that the variant is a highly polymorphic variant.

Allele frequency and genotype distribution of a common variant in the 3´-untranslated region of the SLC22A3 gene in patients with type 2 diabetes: Association with response to metformin

Background:

Organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3) is an excellent transporter for metformin, which is used as first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes (T2D). OCT3 genetic variants may influence the clinical response to metformin. This study aimed to determine the genotype and allele frequency of OCT3-564G>A (rs3088442) variant and its role in the glycemic response to metformin in patients with newly diagnosed T2D.

Materials and Methods:

Based on the response to metformin, 150 patients were classified into two groups: Sixty-nine responders (decrease in glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c] values by more than 1% from the baseline) and 81 nonresponders (decrease in HbA1c values <1% from the baseline). HbA1c levels were determined by chromatography. The variant OCT3-564G>A was genotyped using polymerase chain reaction - based restriction fragment length polymorphism.

Results:

The genotypes frequencies were 51.3% GG, 36% AG, and 12.7% AA. Allele frequency of major allele (G) and minor allele (A) in OCT3-564G>A variant was found to be 0.69 and 0.31, respectively. Fasting glucose, HbA1c, body mass index, and lipid profile in both GG genotypes and GA + AA group decreased significantly after 3 months of metformin therapy compared with baseline (P < 0.05). In both responders and nonresponders, HbA1c and fasting glucose levels were lower in patients with the GA + AA genotype than in those with the GG genotype; however, the differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

The A allele frequency (which may be a protective allele against coronary heart disease) in the Iranian diabetic patients was lower than Iranian, Caucasian and Japanese healthy populations. Metformin is useful in improving the lipid profile, in addition to its impacts in glycemic control, and these effects are regardless of OCT3-564G>A variant.

H1299R in coagulation Factor V and Glu429Ala in MTHFR genes in recurrent pregnancy loss in Sari, Mazandaran

BACKGROUND

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is caused by different factors, including genetics and thrombophilia. Beside Factor V Leiden, another nucleotide change in a factor V (FV) gene (A4070G; His1299Arg) has been identified linking to hereditary thrombophilia. Also, two proposed MTHFR polymorphisms, C677T and A1298C (Glu429A) are linked with RPL.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, the effect of two factors, A4070G in FV and A1298C in MTHFR are evaluated in RPL patients from Mazandaran province, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Sample population of 100 women with RPL and 100 controls with Mazandarani ethnics from northern Iran were consist. The factor V (A4070G) and MTHFR (A1298C) polymorphisms were genotyped by PCR-RFLP.

RESULTS

Molecular study showed 5 women from patients and 9 women from control group were heterozygous AG for A4070G. Frequency of "A" allele in patient and control groups was 97.5% (0.975) and 95.5% (0.955) respectively, and "G" allele frequency was 2.5% (0.025) and 4.5% (0.045) respectively. No significant association (p≤0.05) between FV A4070G genotype and RPL with an OR=1.88, CI 95%=0.6-5.82, was observed (p=0.4). Also, for A1298C, all patients and control individuals were AA genotype. "A" allele frequency in patients and control was 100% and "C" allele frequency was zero. There was no significant difference for A1298C between groups.

CONCLUSION

Our finding showed that A4070G and A1298C polymorphisms cannot be considered as a cause of PRL in women from Mazandaran province, northern Iran.

HLA-G5 and G7 Isoforms in Pregnant Women

Human leukocyte antigen-G which is an immune tolerance effecter molecule has an important role in the maintenance of fetus during pregnancy. Abortion is one of the complications of pregnancy period.  In this research, we have studied levels of HLA-G 5, HLA-G7 isoforms in the abortion-threatened pregnant women in comparison with controls. In a case-control study, 101 abortion-threatened women and 101 healthy pregnant women (healthy controls) with age range 21-32 years were studied. Gene expression of HLA-5 and HLA-7 isoforms was analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction after mRNA extraction and cDNA synthesis. The results indicated that HLA-G5 was significantly lower in abortion-threatened women in comparison with the control group whereas HLA-G7 was not significantly differentbetween the 2 groups. HLA-G is a vital molecule during pregnancy that can be a key factor in prevention of abortion. It is concluded that determination of HLA-G5 can be of value in pregnancy.

The variant organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2)-T201M contribute to changes in insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes treated with metformin

AIMS

Insulin resistance is characterized by impaired biological response of peripheral tissues to the metabolic effects of insulin. Organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) is responsible for 80% metformin clearance. Limited information is available on the potential relationship between genetic variants of OCT2 and insulin resistance. In this study, we examined the role of OCT2-T201M (602 C>T) variant in insulin resistance in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who were treated with metformin.

METHODS

Serum concentrations of insulin and C-peptide were assessed using ELISA. Homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and HOMA for beta cell function (HOMA-BCF) were determined. PCR-based restriction fragment length polymorphism was used to genotype the OCT2-T201M variant.

RESULTS

Patients with minor alleles had higher HbA1c concentrations (p=0.019), fasting glucose levels (p=0.023), HOMA-IR (p=0.03), and HOMA-BCF (p=0.26) than patients with common alleles. Multivariate analysis identified a significant association between the variables OCT2-T201M and gender, with HOMA-IR and HOMA-BCF (Wilks' λ=0.549, F=12.71, p<0.001 for OCT2-T201M and Wilks' λ=0.369, F=26.46, p<0.001 for gender. Changes in HOMA-BCF were inversely correlated with changes in fasting glucose levels (r=-0.412, p=0.008) and HbA1c (r=-0.257, p=0.114).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that the loss-of-function variant OCT2-T201M (rs145450955) contribute to changes in insulin resistance and beta cell activity in patients with T2D treated with metformin. Moreover, gender as an independent variable has a significant relationship with HOMA-BCF.

Aldose reductase C-106T gene polymorphism in type 2 diabetics with microangiopathy in Iranian individuals

BACKGROUND

Aldose reductase (AR) is the rate-limiting enzyme in the glucose metabolism, which has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic microvascular complications (MVCs). Frequent C-106T polymorphism in the promoter of the AR gene may change the expression of the gene.

AIMS

The aim of the following study is to study the association between AR C106T genotypes and diabetic MVCs in Iranian population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included 206 type 2 diabetic patients categorized into two groups according to the presence or absence of diabetic microangiopathy. The cases of interest were diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy and nephropathy identified during clinical and or laboratory examination. In addition, 114 age- and sex-matched individuals were selected to serve as a control group. AR genotyping was done using an amplification gel electrophoresis.

RESULTS

The frequency of CC genotype was specifically higher in subjects with diabetic retinopathy as compared to those without it (53.2% vs. 38.1%, P = 0.030). Patients with diabetic microangiopathy in general; however, did not differ significantly between AR genotype groups.

CONCLUSION

The C-106T polymorphism in the AR gene is likely a risk factor for development of only retinal complication of diabetes microvascular in Iranian individuals.

Haptoglobin polymorphism in individuals with type 2 diabetic microangiopathy

BACKGROUND

Haptoglobin is an acute phase protein with antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. Gene polymorphism may be a risk factor for diabetic vascular disease in Iranian population.

AIMS

The study investigates the existence or not of an association between haptoglobin genotypes and prevalence of diabetic microangiopathy in individuals with type 2 diabetic microangiopathy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We included 206 type 2 diabetic patients (<5 years duration) categorized into two groups according to the presence or absence of diabetic microvascular complications. The cases of interest were diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy identified during clinical and or laboratory examination. In addition, 114 age- and sex-matched individuals were selected to serve as a control group. Haptoglobin genotyping was done using an amplification gel electrophoresis.

RESULTS

The frequency of haptoglobin phenotype 2-1 in diabetic patients was 70/206 (33.9%) as compared with 54/114 (47.3%) in nondiabetics (P = 0.01). However, the frequency of haptoglobin phenotype 2-2 was greater in diabetics (126/114, 61.1%) than in those without diabetes (56/114, 49.1%; P = 0.02). Patients with diabetic microangiopathy; however, did not differ significantly between haptoglobin phenotype groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Haptoglobin phenotype 2-2 is considered to be a major susceptibility gene for type 2 diabetic patients. Moreover, haptoglobin phenotype 2-1may be good prognostic factors for the development of diabetes mellitus.

Detection of invasive aspergillosis in bone marrow transplant recipients using real-time PCR

Objective:

The invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a serious opportunistic infection caused by various species of Aspergillus in immunocompromised individuals. Basically, rapid and early diagnosis prevents IA progression. In this study we performed a Real Time PCR/ Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) for diagnosis of IA in hematologic malignancies and bone marrow transplant recipients.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty two patients with hematologic malignancies and marrow transplant recipients were evaluated for IA in Sari and Tehran from 2009 to 2010. The primer and hybridization probe were designed to amplify the specific sequence of 18S rRNA genes using Light Cycler system and FRET. Galactomannan (GM) assay was performed on serums which obtained from selected patients using the Platelia Aspergillus kit.

Results:

According to the criteria defined by the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer and Mycoses Study Group (EORTC/MSG) for IA, 18 (29%) patients out of 62 patients were stratified into probable and possible groups. The female-to-male ratio was 1:2; the mean age of the patients was 36 years. The most common malignancies in these patients were acute lymphoblastic leukemia (38.9%). The minimum detection limit was 10 conidia (10¹ CFU/ml) equivalents (100 fg) per PCR reaction. GM assay was positive in 20.9% and real-time PCR probe set assay were positive in 17.7% patients who had clinical signs and host factor according to the mentioned criteria.

Conclusion:

Using the Real-Time PCR/FRET assay in whole blood specimens seems to be a promising method for diagnosis of IA, especially when used in combination with the GM detection test.