Inhibition of NOTCH signaling pathway chemosensitizes HCC CD133+ cells to vincristine and 5-fluorouracil through upregulation of BBC3

In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the poor response to the chemotherapeutic agents is partially attributed to the chemoresistance property of cancer stem cells (CSCs). NOTCH signaling pathway plays a crucial role in the chemoresistance through the maintenance of the CSCs. We observed that the NOTCH pathway was activated in HCC CD133⁺ cells treated with vincristine (VIN)¹ and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU)². Therefore, we examined whether inhibition of the NOTCH can improve sensitization of HCC CD133⁺ cells to VIN and 5-FU. The Huh7 cell line was pre-incubated γ-secretase DAPT, as a NOTCH inhibitor, and then treated with IC₅₀ dose of VIN or 5-FU. The CD133⁺ cells were then isolated and analyzed for the cell viability, apoptosis, migration and spheroid formation capacities, and gene and protein expression. It was observed that pre-incubation with DAPT significantly downregulated the expression of NOTCH-related genes and led to a significant reduction in VIN- and 5-FU-CD133⁺ population. In addition, DAPT pre-incubated VIN- and 5-FU-treated-CD133⁺ cells formed fewer spheroids in 3D culture and had a lesser migration capacity in 2D culture. Importantly, DAPT enhanced the apoptosis rate of VIN- and 5-FU-treated CD133⁺ cells for 3- and 2-fold, which was correlated with the enhanced expression of pro-apoptotic BBC3 (BCL-2-binding component 3) and decreased expression of HES1 that was reported to regulate BBC3 negatively. Collectively, it was observed that NOTCH inhibition sensitized the HCC CD133⁺ cells to VIN and 5-FU through enhancing BBC3-mediated apoptosis. The results highlighted the role of NOTCH/HES1/BBC3 axis in resistance of CD133⁺ cells to VIN and 5-FU. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying chemoresistance in HCC CD133⁺ cells may help in designing the novel targeted therapies to chemosensitize them.

Impact of single nucleotide polymorphism in chemical metabolizing genes and exposure to wood smoke on risk of cervical cancer in North-Indian women

AIM

In the present study, we investigated the hypothesis whether exposure to wood smoke increases the risk of cervical cancer (CC) in North-Indian women who inherit different polymorphic forms of chemical metabolizing genes (GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1 and CYP1A1).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred fifty histologically confirmed CC patients and equal number of cancer-free age and ethnicity matched controls were genotyped for genetic polymorphism in chemical metabolizing genes by using polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism method. The association of the different genotypes and exposure to wood smoke with the risk of CC in North-Indian women was estimated by doing statistical analysis using Statistical Package for the Social Science.

RESULTS

It was observed that the variant genotypes of GSTM1, GSTT1, GSTP1 and CYP1A1 did not significantly increase the risk of CC. However, statistically significant increased risk (odds ratio 3.6; 95% confidence interval, 1.34-9.78; p = 0.008) was observed for women who used wood for cooking and had GSTM1 (null) genotype.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study suggests that genetic differences in the metabolism of wood smoke carcinogens, particularly by GSTM1, may increase the risk of CC.

The protective role of the -1306C>T functional polymorphism in matrix metalloproteinase-2 gene is associated with cervical cancer: implication of human papillomavirus infection

Cervical cancer is the major reproductive health problem among women caused by persistent infection of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV). Metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) is an endopeptidase highly expressed in cervical cancer; however, the genetic link between aberrant expression of MMP-2 and cervical carcinogenesis is not known. The genotypic distribution, expression pattern of MMP-2 and HPV infection, was analyzed in a total of 300 fresh surgically resected cervical tissue biopsies. The MMP-2 C1306T (rs243865) promoter polymorphism dominant model (CC v/s CT + CT + TT) revealed that the CC genotype had a 4.33-fold significant increased risk for development of cervical cancer (OR = 4.33; 95 % CI = 2.36-4.02, p = 0.0001) compared to those with variant genotypes (-1306 CT + TT). The C allele was associated with 3-fold significant increased risk (OR = 2.95; 95 % CI = 1.90-4.60, p = 0.0002) compared to T allele. Interestingly, a significant correlation was found between high expression of MMP-2 protein and CC genotype in cancer patients (p = 0.001) compared to normal controls (p = 0.012). Further analysis showed that the risk of cancer was extremely pronounced in HPV positive patients (OR = 9.33; 95 % CI = 2.88-30.20, p = 0.0001) compared to HPV negative ones, implicating the possible interaction between -1306CC genotype and HPV infection in increasing the cancer risk (p = 0.0001). The leads from the present study suggest the protective role of gene variant -1306C>T at the promoter region of the MMP-2 against HPV-mediated cervical cancer. These findings substantiate the functional role of MMP-2 C1306T polymorphism in a significant downregulation of MMP-2 protein in women with variant genotype (CT/TT) compared to the normal wild CC genotype.

Analysis of genetic variations across regulatory and coding regions of kappa-casein gene of Indian native cattle (Bos indicus) and buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

The promoter region of kappa-casein (κ-CN) gene in Indian native cattle and buffalo breeds was sequenced and analyzed for nucleotide variations. Sequence comparison across breeds of Indian cattle revealed a total of 7 variations in the promoter region, of which − 515 G/T, − 427 C/T, − 385 C/T, − 283 A/G and − 251 C/T were located within consensus binding sites for octamer-binding protein (OCT1)/pregnancy specific mammary nuclear factor (PMF), activator protein-2 (AP2), hepatocyte nuclear factor (HNF-1) and GAL4 transcription factors (TFs), respectively. These variations might be involved in gain or loss of potential transcription factor binding sites (TFBSs). Unlike the other 4 variants, the − 283 (A/G) variant located within HNF-1 TFBS was specific to Indian cattle as this change has not been observed in the Bos taurus sequence. Other TFBSs viz., MGF, TBP, NF-1, milk box and C/EBP were conserved across species. For the Indian native buffalo breeds, only 3 changes were identified in the promoter region; − 305 (A/C), − 160 (T/C) and − 141 (A/G) and most of the TFBSs were found to be conserved. However, deletion of two adjacent nucleotides located in and around binding site for C/EBP TF was identified in buffalo when compared with promoter sequence of bovine κ-CN. For κ-CN of Indian native cattle, a strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) was observed for variations 515 G/T, − 427 C/T and − 385 C/T in the promoter region; and for variations at codons 136 and 148 of exon-IV. Further, among intragenic haplotypes, variation − 427 C/T was found to be in LD with variations at codons 136 and 148. The information generated in the present work provides comprehensive characterization of κ-CN gene promoter and coding regions in Indian cattle and buffaloes and reported variations could become important candidates for carrying out further research in dairy traits.

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The κ-casein gene (κ-CN) and its promoter region was sequence characterized in 15 Indian native cattle and 8 buffalo breeds.

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Among the identified variations, four were located within TFBSs in Indian cattle, while all TFBSs were conserved in buffaloes.

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The κ-CN CDS was highly conserved with only 3 and 2 non-synonymous changes for Indian cattle and buffaloes, respectively.

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Across promoter and CDS, − 427 C/T was found to be in LD with variation at codons 136 and 148.

Sequence analysis and identification of new variations in the 5'-flanking region of αS2-casein gene in Indian zebu cattle

Regulatory region of milk protein alpha S2-casein (αS2-CN) gene sequence was characterized and analyzed for nucleotide variations in animals representing 13 Indian zebu cattle (Bos indicus) breeds. A total of 15 variations; 11 in promoter region (1.56 Kb): -1481 (C>T), -1412 (C>T), -1342 (C>T), -1084 (G>A), -979 (A>G), -657 (A>T), -508 (A>G), -186 (T>C), -184 (T>C), -151 (T>C) and -135 (C>T); 1 in 5'-UTR (44 bp): 7 (C>T) while, 3 in intron-I region (73 bp): 186 (C>T), 194 (A>C) and 301 (A>T) were identified. Additionally, single deletion was observed at -975 (A>-) but not involve any known potential transcription factor binding sites (TFBS). Comparison with Bos taurus sequence revealed two additional variations -1085 (T>C) and -739 (A>G). Out of the total 18 variations observed between indicine and taurine αS2-CN regulatory region sequence, 15 were novel to B. indicus and are reported for the first time. Among these, four variations were located within the potential TFBSs; -1342 (C>T) within HNF-3beta, -739 (A>G) within C/EBP-alpha while -657 (A>T) and -508 (A>G) were found within glucocorticoid receptor TFBSs. Variations located within or in proximity to putative TFBSs could possibly influence the binding affinity of nuclear factors towards DNA binding domains, thus affecting transcriptional rate of αS2-CN gene. Phylogenetically, as expected, Indian zebu cattle were grouped close to B. taurus and were most distantly placed in comparison to human. The study indicated possible genetic variations in the regulatory regions of αS2-CN gene within Indian native cattle (B. indicus) and also its comparison with evolutionary different B. taurus breeds.

CpG island methylation of TMS1/ASC and CASP8 genes in cervical cancer

Background

Gene silencing associated with aberrant methylation of promoter region CpG islands is an acquired epigenetic alteration that serves as an alternative to genetic defects in the inactivation of tumor suppressor and other genes in human cancers.

Aims

This study describes the methylation status of TMS1/ASC and CASP8 genes in cervical cancer. We also examined the prevalence of TMS1/ASC and CASP8 genes methylation in cervical cancer tissue and none - neo plastic samples in an effort to correlate with smoking habit and clinicopathological features.

Method

Target DNA was modified by sodium bisulfite, converting all unmethylated, but not methylated, cytosines to uracil, and subsequently amplified by Methylation Specific (MS) PCR with primers specific for methylated versus unmethylated DNA. The PCR product was detected by gel electrophoresis and combined with the clinical records of patients.

Results

The methylation pattern of the TMS1/ASC and CASP8 genes in specimens of cervical cancer and adjacent normal tissues were detected [5/80 (6.2%), 3/80 (3.75%)-2/80 (2.5%), 1/80 (1.2%) respectively]. No statistical differences were seen in the extent of differentiation, invasion, pathological type and smoking habit between the methylated and unmethylated tissues (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The present study conclude that the frequency of TMS1/ASC and CASP8 genes methylation in cervical cancer are rare (< 6%), and have no any critical role in development of cervical cancer.

The -137G/C polymorphism of interleukin 18 promoter and risk of HIV-1 infection and its progression to AIDS

A growing body of evidence suggests that host genetic factors play an important role both in susceptibility to human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) infection and in progression to AIDS. Interleukin 18 (IL-18) is a pleiotropic proinflammatory cytokine that serves as an important regulator of immune responses. It plays a key role in induction of both Th1 and Th2 cytokines and, thereby, modulates their immune responses. Single nucleotide polymorphisms in the IL-18 gene promoter region may lead to an altered transcriptional activity and IL-18 production, and so this may account for individuals' variation to the risk of HIV-1 infection. With this perspective, the -137G/C polymorphism in the promoter region of the IL-18 gene was studied in 500 patients with HIV-1/AIDS and an equal number of sex and age matched healthy controls using sequence specific polymerase chain reaction analysis. We did not observe any significant association of the heterozygous G/C genotype with the risk of HIV-1-infection/AIDS. However, statistically significant associations of the G allele and homozygous G/G genotype of -137 G/C polymorphism of IL-18 promoter with increased risk of HIV-1/AIDS were identified. The data of the present study suggest that IL-18 -137 G allele and G/G genotype seem to be involved in the pathogenesis of HIV-1 infection among North Indians.

Solid lipid nanoparticles regulate functional assortment of mouse mesenchymal stem cells

A rapid decline in self-renewability, viability and function, of isolated stem cells are major hurdles in developing cell based therapies. There has been an increasing interest towards identifying a support material for maintaining stem cell features of the isolated cells. Pioneering observations of the present paper, demonstrate functionally diverse potential of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) in deciding the fate & behavior of mouse mesenchymal stem cell. The evidences are provided to show the dual nature of the SLNs for being a scaffold for the stem cell attachment, to retain stemness, and as reagent for inducing stem cell differentiation. Scanning electron microscopic examinations together with expression analysis were used to conform to such observations. Results of the study thus suggest that Solid lipid nanoparticles can be used as a good support material when functionalized to achieve adhesive properties and as a molecular paradigm for studying the adipocytic differentiation. We envisage a new role of SLNs towards regulating stem cell character by orchestrating the structural alignment during preparation of Solid lipid nanoparticles.

Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Regulate Functional Assortment of Mouse Mesenchymal Stem Cells

A rapid decline in self-renewability, viability and function, of isolated stem cells are major hurdles in developing cell based therapies. There has been an increasing interest towards identifying a support material for maintaining stem cell features of the isolated cells. Pioneering observations of the present paper, demonstrate functionally diverse potential of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLNs) in deciding the fate & behavior of mouse mesenchymal stem cell. The evidences are provided to show the dual nature of the SLNs for being a scaffold for the stem cell attachment, to retain stemness, and as reagent for inducing stem cell differentiation. Scanning electron microscopic examinations together with expression analysis were used to conform to such observations. Results of the study thus suggest that Solid lipid nanoparticles can be used as a good support material when functionalized to achieve adhesive properties and as a molecular paradigm for studying the adipocytic differentiation. We envisage a new role of SLNs towards regulating stem cell character by orchestrating the structural alignment during preparation of Solid lipid nanoparticles

Microsatellite analysis of genetic population structure of zebu cattle (Bos indicus) breeds from north-western region of India

The present study aims to understand the existing genetic diversity and structure of six native cattle breeds (Rathi, Tharparkar, Nagori, Mewati, Gir, and Kankrej) adapted to the north-western arid and semi-arid region of India based on microsatellite loci. Various diversity estimates, mean number of alleles (12.84); effective number of alleles (5.02); gene diversity (0.769), and observed heterozygosity (0.667) reflected the existence of substantial within-breed diversity in all the investigated cattle breeds. Mean estimates of F-statistics: F(IT) = 0.144 ± 0.023, F(IS) = 0.071 ± 0.021, and F(ST) = 0.078 ± 0.014 were significantly different from zero (P < 0.05). The interbreed relationships indicated moderate level of breed differentiation between the six cattle breeds with least differentiation between Kankrej-Mewati pair. The phylogeny structuring further supported close grouping of Kankrej and Mewati breeds. Correspondence analysis plotted Rathi, Tharparkar, and Gir individuals into three separate areas of multivariate space; whereas, Kankrej, Mewati, and Nagori cattle showed low breed specific clustering. This reflected the existence of discrete genetic structure for Tharparkar, Rathi, and Gir, the prominent dairy breeds of the region; whereas, admixture was observed for Kankrej, Mewati, and Nagori individuals.

Insights into the role of IL-12B and IFN-gamma cytokine gene polymorphisms in HIV-1/AIDS infection

One of the main characteristics of HIV-1 infection is persistent systemic immune activation. This immune activation and dysregulation is characterized by a specific pattern of cytokine production, expression of membrane activation molecules on the cells of the immune system, and changes in the levels of several immune parameters in blood. Therefore, the aim of the present work was to evaluate the effect of a Taq1 polymorphism in the 3'UTR of the IL-12B gene at position -1188 (A/C) and the biallelic polymorphism in the first intron of IFN-gamma at position +874 (T/A) on HIV-1/AIDS among north Indian population. IL-12B and IFN-gamma gene polymorphisms were studied in 300 patients with HIV-1/AIDS and an equal number of negatively diagnosed controls of the matched age, using DNA-based polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers and restriction digestion. The allelic as well as genotypic frequencies of interleukin-12B gene polymorphisms did not significantly differ between HIV-1/AIDS patients and negative healthy controls. A statistically significant correlation was found between IFN-gamma polymorphism and the risk of the disease. The present study suggested that individuals with mutant homozygous IFN-gamma AA genotype were at risk of HIV-1/AIDS (OR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.14-3.10, P = 0.008).

Overexpression of STAT3 in HPV-mediated cervical cancer in a north Indian population

The constitutively activated STAT family members, particularly STAT3, have been shown to possess transforming properties, and are strongly correlated with tumor development and progression. STAT3 transmits signals from many cytokines and growth factors to target genes in the nucleus through the Jak/Stat signaling pathway. HPV is the main etiological factor in the development of cervical cancer. In the current study, the expression of STAT3 was analyzed in various stages of HPV-mediated cervical carcinogenesis. Tissue biopsies from 100 patients with cervical cancer of different stages and normal tissues from patients undergoing hysterectomy were selected for studying the HPV status and STAT3 expression. HPV status of each corresponding biopsy was analyzed by PCR and typing. The mRNA expression was analyzed by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). HPV infection was detected in majority of cases: 75% (9/12) in precancer, 85% (34/40) stage I & II, and 95% (36/38) in stage III & IV of cervical cancer cases by L1 PCR. Further sub typing revealed HPV16 in 100% (9/9) of L1 positives in precancerous & 90% (63/70) in different stages of cancer. Significant level of STAT3 mRNA expression was predominantly found in cervical cancer cases as compared to normal controls (P = 0.001). We also found a significant correlation of STAT3 expression in cases infected with HPV (P = 0.001). Our results indicate a potentially interactive effect between HPV 16/18 and transcriptional activation of STAT3 gene in cervical carcinogenesis. To our knowledge, this is the first such study to be reported from India. Further investigations are needed to determine the influence of STAT3 expression on cervical carcinogenesis and its possible interaction with HPV infection status.

The influence of variations in the DNA repair (XRCC1) gene on HIV-1/AIDS among Indian population

Genetic polymorphisms in DNA repair genes may influence individual variations in the DNA repair capacity. Polymorphisms in the XRCC1 gene that cause amino acid substitutions may impair the interaction of its proteins (XRCC1) with the other enzymatic proteins and consequently alter DNA repair function, which may be associated with the risk of HIV-1/AIDS disease. In this study, we aimed to determine the frequency of polymorphisms in XRCC1 codon 399 in a sample of Indian population with HIV-1/AIDS to evaluate its association with the disease. Polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism were used to analyse XRCC1 Arg399Gln polymorphisms in 300 positively diagnosed cases with HIV-1/AIDS and an equal number of negatively diagnosed controls of the matched age. The XRCC1 homozygous variant genotype Gln399Gln was associated with an increased risk of HIV-1/AIDS disease (OR = 1.8, 95% CI 1.10-2.94), while no association was found with the Arg399Gln genotype. Polymorphisms in the XRCC1 homozygous variant genotype for the 399Gln allele were associated with the risk of HIV-1/AIDS disease in a sample of North Indian population.

CYP1A1andCYP2D6polymorphism and risk of lung cancer in a North Indian population

This case-control study was conducted to examine the association between the CYP1A1 and CYP2D6 genotypes and lung cancer risk among North Indians. The estimated relative risk for lung cancer associated with the CYP1A1 Val/Val allele was 2.68, and was four-fold when cases with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) were considered alone. With regard to the metabolism of debrisoquine, no poor metabolizers were found amongst the subjects. The odds ratio of risk with the heterozygous extensive metabolizer (HEM) genotype was 1.5. However, in the presence of at least a single copy of the variant CYP1A1 MspI allele and the CYP2D6 HEM genotype, the risk was two-fold for squamous cell carcinoma (SQCC). When the CYP1A1 Val/Val and CYP2D6 HEM genotypes were taken together, the risk for SCLC was four-fold. Stratified analysis indicated an interaction between bidi smoking and variant CYP1A1 genotypes on the risk for SQCC and SCLC. Heavy smokers (Brinkman index>400) with Val/Val genotypes were at a very high risk of developing lung cancer (odds ratio 29.30, 95% confidence interval 2.42-355, p=0.008). Heavy smokers with CYP1A1 MspI (CYP1A1*1/2A or CYP1A1*2A/*2A) genotype had a seven-fold risk for SCLC compared with non-smokers. This study is the first to be carried out on a North Indian population, and, although small, suggests that CYP1A1 and CYP2D6 polymorphisms might have a role in determining the risk for lung cancer and should be investigated further.

Role of hormonal genes and risk of prostate cancer: gene-gene interactions in a North Indian population

Prostate cancer represents a heterogeneous disease with varying degrees of aggressiveness, patterns of metastasis, and response to therapy. It arises from a complex etiology that involves both exogenous (diet, environment, etc.) and endogenous (hormonal and genetic) factors. The present study was performed to explore the role of various genotypes involved in steroid metabolism and synthesis in the causation of prostate cancer. Genetic polymorphism of the ER, CYP17, SRD5A2 (TA repeats), and PSA genes were analyzed in 157 cases of prostate cancer and 340 controls [170 healthy males and 170 patients of benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH)]. Mutant genotypes of ER and CYP17 showed 2- and 3- and 3.5-fold increased risk of prostate cancer, respectively, as compared to BPH and healthy controls. Interaction of mutant (homozygous and heterozygous) alleles of CYP17 with TA (0/0) led to a twofold increased risk of prostate cancer. Risk was more than twofold with the combination of mutant alleles of ER and CYP17. The PSA gene polymorphism did not show any increased risk of prostate cancer. This indicates the role of mutant allele of ER and CYP17 in the development and progression of prostate cancer and rules out any increased risk with PSA polymorphism in the north Indian population.

Expression and polimorphism of IFN-gamma gene in patients with cervical cancer

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer, the second most common malignancy in women worldwide, is almost invariably associated with infection by human papillomavirus (HPV). However, although many women are infected with high-risk types of HPV, only a subset of infected women will ever develop cervical cancer. Several studies suggested that immunological components play a key role in the development of cervical cancer. Interferon gamma (IFN-gamma ) is a cytokine produced by activated T cells and natural killer (NK) cells that enhances cellular immune responses by increasing T-cell cytotoxicity and NK cell activity.

AIM

To study single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), T to A, located at the +874 position and measure IFN-gamma messenger RNA (mRNA) at the tumor site.

METHODS

DNA was isolated from peripheral blood of 200 patients with cervical cancer and 200 healthy controls. The allele polymorphism at position +874 in the IFN-gamma gene was studied by ARMS-PCR (Amplification Refractory Mutation System) and measured IFN-gamma mRNA at the tumor site by means of a semi-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (sqRT-PCR) assay.

RESULTS

It was observed that genotypes AT and AA + AT increase the risk of cervical cancer (OR = 3.3, 95% CI - 2.05-5.2, P <or= 0.001 - OR = 2.9, 95% CI - 1.9-4.6, P <or= 0.001, respectively). In case of passive smokers same genotypes showed highly significant increased risk of cervical cancer (OR = 5.55, 95% CI = 2.77-11.19 - OR = 5.25, 95% CI = 2.77-10, respectively). Thus, the sqRT-PCR reflected the similar level of mRNA expression of IFN- gamma gene in patients suffering from cervical carcinoma and healthy controls.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to provide an evidence for effecting of IFN-gamma gene on the risk of cervical cancer in north Indian population.

Isolation and sequence characterization of mammary derived growth inhibitor gene of riverine buffalo (Bubalus bubalis)

In this study, attempts have been made to identify and characterize water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) mammary derived growth inhibitor (MDGI) gene, isolated from a mammary gland cDNA library of lactating buffalo. The complete MDGI cDNA was of 698 nucleotides, consisting 61 nucleotides in 5' UTR, coding region of 402 nucleotides, and 235 nucleotides representing the 3' UTR. Comparison of nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequence data with that of MDGI/fatty acid binding protein (FABP) of other species shows three buffalo specific nucleotide changes while seven nucleotide changes were common to cattle and buffalo. Buffalo and cattle MDGI had 100% amino acid sequence similarity, which also shared three amino acid changes: 34 (Ala-Gly), 109 (Leu-Met), and 132 (Glu-Gln) as compared to other species. Comparison with FABPs reported from other cattle tissues revealed highest amino acid sequence similarity with FABP-heart (100%) and least with FABP-liver (20.5%). Phylogenetic analysis revealed cattle MDGI to be closest to buffalo, while mouse MDGI was distantly placed, whereas different tissue derived FABPs of cattle showed FABP-heart closest and FABP-epidermis most distantly placed from buffalo MDGI. This report also differs from the earlier findings that MDGI is intermediate of FABP-heart and adipose.

Association of Fas-670 gene polymorphism with risk of cervical cancer in North Indian population

OBJECTIVES

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the world, with approximately 470,000 new cases and 231,000 deaths occurring each year. Incidence is greater in developing countries such as India, where this is the most common female malignancy with almost 100,000 new cases each year. Apoptosis must be considered as a safe mechanism that controls the integrity of the cell erasing abnormal clones and it is likely that failure of apoptosis constitutes a key factor responsible for tumor formation, progression and resistance to drugs. The Fas gene plays a key role in regulation of apoptotic cell death and corruption of this signaling pathway has been shown to participate in immune escape and tumorgenesis.

STUDY DESIGN

A single-nucleotide polymorphism at -670 of Fas gene promoter (A/G) was examined in a total of 400 blood samples from normal healthy women and cervical cancer patients, using polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) technique.

RESULTS

Significant association was observed for AG (OR = 3.0, 95% CI = (1.68-5.09, p < 0.001) and combined AG+GG (OR = 2.54, 95% CI = 1.47-4.40, p < 0.001) genotype with risk of cervical cancer. Heterozygous genotype (AG) in SCC showed a highly significant association with risk of cervical cancer (OR = 2.57, 95% CI = 1.47-4.50 p <0.001). Similarly, combined AG+GG genotype had a 2.25-fold risk for SCC patients (OR = 2.25, 95% CI = 1.30-3.90, p < 0.001). There was high increase risk of cervical cancer in passive smokers with AG and combined (AG+GG) genotypes (OR = 4.6, 95% CI = 2.07-10.32, p < 0.001 - OR = 4.9, 95% CI = 2.20-10.32, p < 0.001), respectively.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to provide evidence for the association of a Fas -670 (A/G) gene polymorphism with the risk of cervical cancer in a North Indian population.

MspI allelic pattern of bovine growth hormone gene in Indian zebu cattle (Bos indicus) breeds

The MspI allelic variation in intron III of the bovine growth hormone (bGH) gene was explored using PCR-RFLP in 750 animals belonging to 17 well-recognized breeds of Indian zebu cattle (Bos indicus) reared in different geographic locations of the country. Restriction digestion analysis of a 329-bp PCR fragment of the bGH intron III region with MspI restriction enzyme revealed two alleles (MspI- and MspI+) and two genotypes (-/- and +/-) across the 17 cattle breeds studied. The allelic frequency varied from 0.67 to 0.94 for MspI (-) and from 0.06 to 0.33 for MspI (+) across the 17 breeds, with a combined average frequency of 0.87 and 0.13, respectively. No animal with +/+ genotype was detected across the samples analyzed. The chi-square test showed that the difference in MspI allelic frequency was not significant (p > 0.05), regardless of the geographic origin, coat color, or utility of the cattle breed. The high MspI (-) allele frequencies obtained for Indian zebu cattle in this study are in sharp contrast to those reported for taurine breeds from northern Europe, Mediterranean countries, and America. Findings of this study further substantiate the hypothesis that the MspI (-) allele has an Indian origin.

DNA immobilization chemical interference due to aggregates study by Dip and Drop approach

In the present manuscript, we report the studies and observations for chemical interference due to aggregates formation during covalent immobilization of thiolated lambda-DNA between gold microelectrodes. Dip and Drop approaches were employed to study DNA immobilization using thiolated oligos (oligoA 5' GGGCGGCGACCT 3' and oligoB 5' AGGTCGCCGCCC 3'). As a result of aggregation, less interference was observed in Dip approach as compared to Drop approach. Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) analysis of piranha treated gold surface revealed 47.5% increase in height roughness, contributing in interference by creating active sites. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) studies ascertain the multitude of adsorption states existing in long strand of DNA on surface. Surface coverage was found to be approximately 72% (1.35x10(10) molecules/cm(2)), and approximately 42% (7.89x10(9) molecules/ cm(2)) in Dip and Drop approach, respectively. Dip approach can be used as a measure to minimize interference due to aggregation.

Microsatellite DNA typing for assessment of genetic variability in Tharparkar breed of Indian zebu (Bos indicus) cattle, a major breed of Rajasthan

The present study estimates genetic variability with a set of 25 microsatellite markers in a random sample of 50 animals of Tharparkar breed of Indian zebu (Bos indicus) cattle. Tharparkar is a dual-purpose breed, valued for its milk as well as draught utility, and is adapted to the inhospitable Thar desert conditions of Rajasthan typified by summer temperature hovering above 50 degrees C, sparse rainfall and vegetation, and scarcity of even drinking water. The observed number of alleles ranged from 4 (ETH3, ILSTS030, INRA5, INRA63 and MM8) to 11 (HEL9 and ILSTS034), with allelic diversity (average number of observed alleles per locus) of 6.20. Observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.25 (INRA63) to 0.77 (ETH10), and from 0.51 (HEL5 and HAUT27) to 0.88 (HEL9) respectively. Wide range of genetic variability supported the utility of these microsatellite loci in measurement of genetic diversity indices in other Indian cattle breeds too. Various average genetic variability measures, namely allele diversity (6.20), observed heterozygosity (0.57), expected heterozygosity (0.67) and mean polymorphism information content (0.60) values showed substantial within-breed genetic variability in this major breed of Rajasthan, despite accumulated inbreeding as reflected by high average inbreeding coefficient (F(IS) = 0.39). The Tharparkar population has not experienced a bottleneck in the recent past.

Effects of cyclin D1 (CCND1) polymorphism on susceptibility to lung cancer in a North Indian population

Cyclin D1 is involved in normal regulation of the cell cycle and plays an important role in the transition from G1 to S phase of the cell cycle. The CCND1 gene has a G-->A polymorphism in exon 4 that increases the frequency of alternate splicing. We analyzed the potential role of CCND1 gene polymorphisms in lung cancer patients (n = 151) and in a matched control population (n = 151). DNA was isolated from blood samples, and exon 4 of CCND1 was amplified by polymerase chain reaction. After digestion with MspI, common CCND1 polymorphic alleles were analyzed by means of agarose gel electrophoresis. The data obtained were analyzed using multiple logistic regression. After adjustment for age, sex, and smoking status, the AG genotype was associated with an increased risk for overall lung cancer (odds ratio OR = 1.7, 95% confidence interval CI = 0.92-3.14). No association was found between AA genotype and risk of lung cancer. In smokers, the combined AG+AA genotypes of CCND1 were found to be significant (OR = 1.9, 95% CI = 1.03-3.71, P = 0.03). No positive association was found between CCND1 genotypes in nonsmokers. The results suggest that the CCND1 A870G gene polymorphisms may increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers from north India.

Meta- and pooled analysis of GSTT1 and lung cancer: a HuGE-GSEC review

Lung cancer is the most common malignancy in the Western world, and the main risk factor is tobacco smoking. Polymorphisms in metabolic genes may modulate the risk associated with environmental factors. The glutathione S-transferase theta 1 gene (GSTT1) is a particularly attractive candidate for lung cancer susceptibility because of its involvement in the metabolism of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons found in tobacco smoke and of other chemicals, pesticides, and industrial solvents. The frequency of the GSTT1 null genotype is lower among Caucasians (10-20%) than among Asians (50-60%). The authors present a meta- and a pooled analysis of case-control, genotype-based studies that examined the association between GSTT1 and lung cancer (34 studies, 7,629 cases and 10,087 controls for the meta-analysis; 34 studies, 7,044 cases and 10,000 controls for the pooled analysis). No association was observed between GSTT1 deletion and lung cancer for Caucasians (odds ratio (OR) = 0.99, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.87, 1.12); for Asians, a positive association was found (OR = 1.28, 95% CI: 1.10, 1.49). In the pooled analysis, the odds ratios were not significant for either Asians (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.83, 1.13) or Caucasians (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 0.99, 1.21). No significant interaction was observed between GSTT1 and smoking on lung cancer, whereas GSTT1 appeared to modulate occupational-related lung cancer.

CYP17, SRD5A2, CYP1B1, and CYP2D6 gene polymorphisms with prostate cancer risk in North Indian population

To investigate the involvement of the CYP17, SRD5A2, CYP1B1, and CYP2D6 variants with prostate cancer, a case-control study of 100 patients and an equal number of age-matched control men was conducted. There appears to be a nonsignificant increase with risk of prostate cancer for individuals carrying one copy of the CYP17 A2 allele (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 0.99-3.29, P=0.05). The risk was increased in individuals having two A2 alleles (OR; 2.81, 95% CI, 1.06-7.40, P=0.03). Compared with men having the VV genotype of SRD5A2 gene, there was no significant association between the VL genotype and the risk of prostate cancer (OR; 0.54, 95% CI; 0.29-1.03, P=0.06). There was no difference in the occurrence of the genotype LL between controls and prostate cancer patients (OR; 0.90, 95% CI; 0.43-1.89, P=0.79). There was a nonsignificant increased risk of prostate cancer for individuals carrying the CYP1B1Leu/Val genotype (OR, 1.70, 95% CI, 0.91-3.17, P =0.09), which was increased in those having the Val/Val allele (OR, 3.38; 95% CI, 1.13-10.07, P=0.02). Relative to men homozygous for the wild-type allele in CYP2D6 gene, those heterozygous for the B allele had an odds ratio of 1.78 (95% CI, 0.76-4.17, P=0.18) for patients, and for homozygous individuals, it was 1.95 (0.55-6.93, P=0.30). These observations have suggested that the CYP17 A2/A2, CYP1B1 Val/Val, and CYP2D6 genotypes may be associated with an altered risk of prostate cancer, while the CYP2D6 and SRD5A2 V89L polymorphism have no association with its risk in the North Indian population.

Interaction of passive smoking with GST (GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1) genotypes in the risk of cervical cancer in India

Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is a major cause of cervix cancer, but a number of infected women do not develop invasive lesions, suggesting that HPV infection in itself is not a sufficient factor and that other cofactors, such as smoking, play an important role in development of cervix cancer. Alongside active cigarette smoking, passive smoking is an independent risk factor for cervix cancer. Smoking maintains cervical HPV infection longer and decreases potential of clearing an oncogenic infection. Thus, it is quite possible that polymorphism at detoxifying enzyme coding loci such as GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 may determine susceptibility to cervix cancer. This study evaluates the combined effects of genetic polymorphisms of GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 on susceptibility to cervical cancer and interaction of these genes with smoking. On individual analysis of GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1, it was observed that passive smokers having genotypes GSTM1 (null) (OR = 7.0, 95% CI = 2.19-22.36, P = 0.0005), GSTT1 (null) (OR = 10.2, 95% CI = 1.23-84.18, P = 0.02), and GSTP1 (ile/val) (OR = 6.4, 95% CI = 2.25-18.38, P = 0.0005) have an increased risk of developing cervix cancer. It is thus concluded that cervical cancer risk is increased in passive smokers with GSTM1 (null), GSTT1 (null), and GSTP1 (ile/val) genotypes.

Regulation of growth of Lilium plantlets in liquid medium by application of paclobutrazol or ancymidol, for its amenability in a bioreactor system: growth parameters

Effect of growth retardants (paclobutrazol or ancymidol) was studied in Lilium plantlets growing in liquid culture. A significant increase in leaf chlorophyll, epicuticular wax, plant dry weight and bulb starch contents were found in plantlets treated with growth retardants. A similar increase in the number of leaves, roots and bulbs was also noted. However, total leaf area and the fresh weight increased only marginally. These features resulted in robust plantlets that showed significantly improved ex vitro survival. Based on these features, a comprehensive index (CI) was calculated as a measure of quality of the plantlets, and it correlated well with their ex vitro survival. Treatment of plantlets with 3.4 microM paclobutrazol was found to be the best and its carry over effects were also minimal.

Pesticide-induced alteration in mice hepato-oxidative status and protective effects of black tea extract

BACKGROUND

This study investigates the role of black tea extract in protection against oxidative damage induced in mice by a subacute oral dose of a combination of pesticides.

METHODS

Liver damage markers like amino-acid transferases and alkaline phosphatase, oxidative damage markers indicating extent of lipid peroxidation, host antioxidant reserve indicators like reduced glutathione (GSH) and total thiol levels, GSH-dependent enzyme activities viz., glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR) superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured by spectrophotometric techniques in four different groups namely (1) control, (2) black tea extract, (3) pesticide alone and (4) pretreatment with black tea extract followed by pesticide treatment.

RESULTS

Following exposure to pesticides lipid peroxidation was increased compared to that in the control [0.50+/-0.083 (mean+/-S.E.) vs. 0.21+/-0.02 micromol/mg protein, p<0.001]. Moreover, levels of antioxidants like GSH and total thiol were also significantly decreased in comparison to control, e.g., GSH [5.16+/-0.78 vs. 6.96+/-1.35 micromol/mg protein, p<0.001], total thiol [19.3+/-2.74 vs. 26.15+/-2.8 micromol/mg protein, p<0.001]. In addition, the activities of antioxidant enzymes like GPx, GST, GR, SOD and catalase were also likewise diminished by oxidant damage. Treatment with aqueous black tea extract significantly protects the liver tissue from the oxidative damage and shifts the trend towards amelioration and replenishment of the antioxidant status.

CONCLUSIONS

The active components present in natural extracts like that of black tea can be very effective in perhaps reducing the extent of injury and in overcoming oxidant damage caused by exposure to environmental agents like pesticides.

Genetic polymorphism of the CYP1A1, CYP2E1, GSTM1 and GSTT1 genes and lung cancer susceptibility in a north indian population

CYP1A1, CYP2E1, GSTM1 and GSTT1 polymorphisms were evaluated in north Indian lung cancer patients and controls. The estimated relative risk for lung cancer associated with the CYP1A1*2C allele was 2.68. Apart from the CYP1A1*2C genotype, there was no attributable risk in relation to other genotypes when analyzed singly. However, in the presence of a single copy of the variant CYP1A1 (CYP1A1*1/2A) and null GSTT1 genes, there was a three-fold increased risk for lung cancer; when stratified histologically the relative risk increased to 3.7 in case of SQCC. Similarly individuals carrying the mutant CYP1A1*2C genotype and single copy of the variant CYP1A1 Mspl allele, had a relative risk of 2.85 for lung cancer. In case of the GSTM1 and CYP1A1 genotypes, null GSTM1 and variant Msp1 alleles had two-fold elevated risk for SQCC. On the other hand CYP1A1*2C and null GSTM1 genotype had a 3.5-fold elevated risk for SCLC. Stratified analysis indicated a multiplicative interaction between tobacco smoking and variant CYP1A1 genotypes on the risk for SQCC and SCLC. The heavy smokers (BI > 400) with CYP1A1*2C genotype were at a very high risk to develop SCLC with an OR of 29.30 (95% CI = 2.42-355, p = 0.008). Taken together, these findings, the first to be analyzed in north Indian population, suggest that combined GSTT1 , GSTM1 and CYP1A1 polymorphisms could be susceptible to lung cancer induced by bidi (an Indian cigarette) smoking.

Genetic polymorphisms of CYP2D6, GSTM1, and GSTT1 genes and bladder cancer risk in North India

The study consisted of 100 patients (97 males and 3 females) suffering from bladder cancer and 76 matching controls. The maximum number of patients in this study was in the age group of 61-70 years. The prevalence of genetic polymorphism in the CYP2D6, GSTM1, and GSTT1 genes has been investigated to find their association with risk of bladder cancer. While there was no association between the heterozygous (HEM) genotype of the CYP2D6 gene with the risk of bladder cancer [odds ratio (OR)=1.00; 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.46-2.16], it was 1.5-fold with poor metabolizers (PM) genotype. When stratified according to different grades of bladder cancer, a significant association was found with an OR=3.54 (95% CI=0.89-13.98) in grade II, 3.3 (95% CI=0.12-20.6) in grade III, and 1.67 (95% CI=0.15-18.45) in grade IV. When stratified in relation to smoking status, significant association of the disease was found in heavy smokers with an OR=2.13 (95% CI=0.71-6.43). Subjects with the null genotype for GSTM1 had a slightly significant association with the bladder cancer risk and the risk increased to 2-fold with the GSTT1 null genotype. Smoking status also revealed an impact on the prevalence of bladder cancer in the individuals with GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotypes. The results indicated that there is a 3-fold increase in risk of developing this cancer in the presence of one copy of the variant CYP2D6 (HEM) allele and null GSTT1.

Telomerase activation and incidence of HPV in human gastrointestinal tumors in North Indian population

The present study was initiated with the objective of finding out the role of possible factors in the etiology of gastrointestinal tract cancers. HPV-DNA was detected in 62.5% (25/40) of the patients by PCR. Telomerase activity as shown by TRAP-ELISA assay was detected in 82.5% (33/40) of the tumor samples and absent in 85.7% (30/35) of the normal samples taken from the same patients. As many as 53.6% (15/28) of the invasive cases were positive both for telomerase activity and for HPV, while 39.3% (11/28) of them, although indicating telomerase expression, showed no signal for HPV. This suggests that activation of telomerase could be by a pathway independent of HPV activation, although both parameters could act as diagnostic and prognostic markers for gastrointestinal tract cancers.

Rapid degradation of ferulic acid via 4-vinylguaiacol and vanillin by a newly isolated strain of bacillus coagulans

A new strain Bacillus coagulans BK07 was isolated from decomposed wood-bark, based on its ability to grow on ferulic acid as a sole carbon source. This strain rapidly decarboxylated ferulic acid to 4-vinylguaiacol, which was immediately converted to vanillin and then oxidized to vanillic acid. Vanillic acid was further demethylated to protocatechuic acid. Above 95% substrate degradation was obtained within 7 h of growth on ferulic acid medium, which is the shortest period of time reported to date. The major degradation products, was isolated and identified by thin-layer chromatography, high performance liquid chromatography and 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy were 4-vinylguaiacol, vanillin, vanillic acid and protocatechuic acid.

Rec effect of certain textile dyes in Bacillus subtilis

A large number of compounds are toxic, genotoxic, mutagenic, teratogenic and/or carcinogenic. The genotoxicity of four textile dyes commonly used in India namely Sulphur Red Brown 360 (SRB), Jade Green 2G (JG), Reactofix Turquoise Blue 5GFL (RTB) and Direct Scarlet 4BS (DS) was determined by Bacillus subtilis spore Rec assay, both in the presence and absence of metabolizing activation mixture (S9 mix). Each dye was toxic at higher dose levels. A dose-dependent increase in the depth of growth inhibition zones was observed for all dyes. Zones of inhibition were usually clearer at higher doses of the dyes and with Rec- bacteria, but were translucent with Rec+ bacteria. SRB and DS were toxic to Rec+ and Rec- bacteria. JG was less genotoxic in the absence of S9 mix, however, its genotoxic potential increased in the presence of S9 mix. Reactofix T blue was more genotoxic in the absence of S9 mixture.

Epidemiology of cervical cancer--a case control study on north Indian population

The present case control study on married women with cervical cancer and controls (100 each) revealed the association of age at marriage, socioeconomic status, education status and parity with cervical cancer but young age at marriage (rr 3.79) and low socioeconomic status (rr -3.81) emerged as independent predictors of disease status.

Characterization and some reaction-engineering aspects of thermostable extracellular beta-galactosidase from a new Bacillus species

A new strain of Bacillus sp. was isolated from a hot water spring in India. This strain generated a high activity of extracellular beta-galactosidase at 37 degrees C in shake flasks. The beta-galactosidase activity was found to increase continuously but the production rate was slower than with some other organisms reported in the literature. There were noteworthy differences in the time-domain profiles of bacterial concentration and beta-galactosidase activity when the starting concentration of substrate (glucose) was tripled from 10 g/L. These differences may be explained in terms of the relative rates of enzyme synthesis and its diffusion across the cell wall. The enzyme produced by this organism is more stable than other beta-galactosidases; its half-life is 408 h at 50 degrees C and 94 h at 55 degrees C, while the reported enzymes showed perceptible loss of activity within 2 h.

A study on p53 protein and anti-p53 antibodies in the sera of patients with oesophageal cancer

p53 protein levels were examined in sera of 15 oesophageal cancer patients using the p53 monoclonal antibody Pab 1801. Antibodies specific for p53 were also analyzed in 20 patients (including 15 patients used for p53 protein level study) and 20 healthy controls. Anti-p53 antibodies were present in 30% (6/20) patients while no antibodies were detected in sera of healthy controls. Comparative analysis of the two parameters, i.e., p53 protein levels and the corresponding antibodies in the patients revealed no correlation.

Receptor-Ck-dependent regulation of genes involved in the cell cycle

The present study was addressed to understand the interrelationship between Receptor-Ck activation, mevalonate pathway and primary response genes such as c-fos, c-myc and cyclin 'D' involved in the cell cycle. The results reported here unambiguously revealed that the phosphatidic acid (generated through the activation of Receptor-Ck by cholesterol) regulates mevalonate pathway, DNA synthesis as well as expression of genes coding for c-fos, c-myc and cyclin 'D'. By using the specific blockers of ras farnesylation as well as phospholipase D, it became apparent that phosphatidic acid regulates two processes: (a) activation of Gap-ras pathway leading to the expression of c-fos, c-myc proto-oncogenes probably through the activation of NF1 transcription factor; (b) cleavage of 125 kDa endoplasmic reticulum protein leading to the generation of 47 kDa protein factor which not only regulates mevalonate pathway but also has an ability to heterodimerize with Receptor-Ck protein and this heterodimer may be responsible for the regulation of cyclin 'D' expression probably by binding to the SRE like sequence present in the promoter region of this gene. On the basis of these findings, we propose a pathway through which Receptor-Ck upon endocytosis regulate these primary response genes (c-fos, c-myc, cyclin 'D') involved in the cell cycle.

Incidence of human papilloma virus in patients with invasive cervical carcinoma

The dot-blot hybridization of biotin-dUTP-labeled HPV-16 DNA with genomic DNA extracted from biopsies taken from patients with invasive carcinoma and abnormal cytology showed the presence of HPV-DNA in 88% and 80% cases under relaxed conditions and 40% and 20% cases under stringent conditions of hybridization, respectively. Southern blot revealed the HPV-DNA in randomly integrated form in two cases and in episomal form in the other two.

Spontaneous genomic fragility and cell cycle progression in lymphocytes of patients with cervical carcinoma

Thirty patients with invasive carcinoma of the cervix, along with 15 age-matched healthy females as controls, were studied to examine the frequency of spontaneous SCEs, chromosomal aberrations (CAs), and cell cycle progression in lymphocytes. The frequency of SCEs and TCAs was statistically significant in the patients over the control group. The correlation of SCEs and TCAs with the stage of cancer, age, and number of pregnancies was also made. The cell cycle of lymphocytes showed its prolongation in the patients, as is evident from the higher proportion of cells at M1 (metaphase of first cell division after 72 hours).

Plasmid-mediated degradation of o-phthalate and salicylate by a Moraxella sp

A Moraxella sp. strain VG45 capable of utilizing o-phthalate and salicylate as a sole source of carbon and energy was isolated. The degradation of o-phthalate occurs via phthalate 4,5-dioxygenase, 4,5-dihydro-4,5-dihydroxyphthalate dehydrogenase, 4,5-dihydroxyphthalate decarboxylase and protocatechuate 4,5-dioxygenase. Salicylate is degraded via salicylate 5-hydroxylase, gentisate 1,2-dioxygenase and then by a glutathione-independent maleylpyruvate hydrolase. Further, a plasmid of app. 60 kilobase pairs (kb) is involved in the degradation of the o-phthalate and salicylate and the enzymes of these two pathways are independently regulated in strain VG45.

Anti-66 kDa antileishmanial antibodies as specific immunodiagnostic probe for visceral leishmaniasis

A 66 kDa plasma membrane associated molecule of promastigotes of Leishmania donovani (MHOM/IN/1978/UR6) was affinity purified under acidic conditions. Employing purified 66 kDa antigen in micro ELISA, 36 (97.3%) of the 37 patients of visceral leishmaniasis (bone marrow aspirates positive for Leishman Donovan bodies) had detectable levels of anti 66 kDa anti leishmanial antibodies. The sera of the patients confirmed to have visceral leishmaniasis had significantly (P < 0.001) higher optical density values (0.636 +/- 0.230) as compared to sera (OD 0.185 +/- 0.131) from patients clinically suspected to have visceral leishmaniasis (bone marrow aspirates negative for Leishman Donovan bodies). None of the 35 sera from apparently healthy subjects from non endemic area had anti 66 kDa antibodies. However, sera from one (8.3%) of the 12 healthy subjects, who was a first degree relative of a patient of visceral leishmaniasis and residing in an area endemic for visceral leishmaniasis, had anti 66 kDa antibodies. It is felt that detection of anti 66 kDa antibodies in a micro ELISA assay provides a highly sensitive and specific tool for confirming ongoing visceral leishmaniasis.

Cytogenetic damage and occupational exposure: II. Exposure to petroleum exhaust

A cytogenetic survey was conducted on personnel exposed to petroleum exhaust fumes (vapour and smoke at automobile workshops). The incidence of chromosomal aberrations (CAs) in this population was evaluated. A total of 1.15 +/- 0.22 aberrations were encountered in the exposed group as compared with 0.47 +/- 0.12 aberrations in the age matched controls. The increase in CAs in the exposed group was highly significant (P < 0.01, test of variance). A strongly positive correlation between increasing exposure duration and a higher incidence of CAs was apparent. No stratification for a higher incidence of CAs on the basis of smoking and/or alcoholic habits could be made in the exposed group.