Evaluation of the protective and therapeutic effects of extra virgin olive oil rich in phenol in experimental model of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis by clinical disease score, ınflammation, apoptosis, and oxidative stress markers

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammation-associated ischemic necrosis of the intestine. To investigate the effects of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) on inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and histological changes in NEC-induced newborn rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

24 rats were randomly divided into three groups: control, NEC and NEC + EVOO. NEC induction was performed using hypoxia-hyperoxia, formula feeding, and cold stress. The NEC + EVOO group received 2 ml/kg EVOO with high phenolic content by gavage twice a day for 3 days. 3 cm of bowel including terminal ileum, cecum, and proximal colon was excised.

RESULTS

Weight gain and clinical disease scores were significantly higher in the NEC + EVOO group than in the NEC group (p < 0.001). EVOO treatment caused significant decreases in IL1β, IL6 levels (p = 0.016, p = 0.029 respectively) and EGF, MDA levels (p = 0.032, p = 0.013 respectively) compared to NEC group. Significant decreases were observed in IL6 gene expression in the NEC + EVOO group compared to the NEC group (p = 0.002). In the group NEC + EVOO, the number of Caspase-3 positive cells was found to be significantly reduced (p < 0.001) and histopathological examination revealed minimal changes and significantly lower histopathological scores (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Phenol-rich EVOO prevents intestinal damage caused by NEC by inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis.

Germline landscape of BRCAs by 7-site collaborations as a BRCA consortium in Turkey

BRCA1/2 mutations play a significant role in cancer pathogenesis and predisposition particularly in breast, ovarian and prostate cancers. Thus, germline analysis of BRCA1 and BRCA2 is essential for clinical management strategies aiming at the identification of recurrent and novel mutations that could be used as a first screening approach. We analyzed germline variants of BRCA1/2 genes for 2168 individuals who had cancer diagnosis or high risk assessment due to BRCAs related cancers, referred to 10 health care centers distributed across 7 regions covering the Turkish landscape. Overall, 68 and 157 distinct mutations were identified in BRCA1 and BRCA2, respectively. Twenty-two novel variants were reported from both genes while BRCA2 showed higher mutational heterogeneity. We herein report the collective data as BRCA Turkish consortium that confirm the molecular heterogeneity in BRCAs among Turkish population, and also as the first study presenting the both geographical, demographical and gene based landscape of all recurrent and novel mutations which some might be a founder effect in comparison to global databases. This wider perspective leads to the most accurate variant interpretations which pave the way for the more precise and efficient management affecting the clinical and molecular aspects.

•

A similar percentage of clinically unaffected individuals were also identified with potentially pathogenic variants.

•

Based on the geographic examinations, Eastern Anatolian and the Mediterranean region had the lowest positivity rates.

•

The Southeastern Anatolian region showed the lowest density of both patients and clinically relevant genetic changes.

Expression of nucleolin, nucleophosmin, upstream binding transcription factor genes and propolis in wound models

Objective:

Nucleolar proteins have important functions in the regulation of cell homeostasis and play a crucial role in sensing various types of stress, such as genotoxic stress. Propolis has epithelial, analgesic, antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects. This study aimed to evaluate the gene expression levels of nucleolar proteins: nucleolin (NCL); nucleophosmin (NPM1); and upstream binding transcription factor (UBTF), as well as the benefits of propolis in wound healing.

Method:

This experimental study was conducted by creating clean and clean–contaminated wounds according to the Surgical Site Infection Guidelines, 2016. A total of seven animal groups were included in the study: control; laparotomy; anastomosis; fucidic acid with/without anastomosis; propolis with/without anastomosis Results: Statistically significant differences of levels of gene expression among the groups were detected for NCL (p=0.004), NPM1 (p=0.011) and UBTF (p=0.000). When the expression levels of the related genes and blood parameters are considered, the relationship between NCL, NPM1 and UBTF expression levels and blood parameters (NE, EO, NE(%), LY, LY(%), EO, EO(%), MO, MO(%), RBC, HB, HCT, MCV, MCHC, RDW, RDW(%), PLT, PDW and PCT) were statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The nucleolar proteins such as NCL, NPM1 and UBTF have important functions in cell viability and its maintenance under various condition such as stress and injury. Additionally, propolis has positive benefits in wound healing and in the prevention of wound infection. Our findings provide the first insights into the putative role of those proteins in wound healing.

A Novel Variant in Paired Box 3 Gene-related with Waardenburg Syndrome Type-1 in an Afghan Family

Waardenburg Syndrome (WS) is a congenital auditory-pigmentary syndrome. We, herein, present a case of a 1.5 year girl presenting with bilateral hearing impairment. Detailed examinations and molecular analyses of the proband and other family members were performed. A novel missense, heterozygous variant (c.253A>C (p.Lys85Gln)) was detected in the paıred box 3 (PAX3) gene. For interpretation and classification of the variant, the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guideline was used. No previous report of this variant was found in the literature and we determined the variant according to the guide published in 2015 as ''likely pathogenic''. We think that the clinical and genetic characterisation of the current family will contribute to knowledge for a better understanding of the genetic background of the Afghan patients with WS. Key Words: Waardenburg syndrome, Congenital auditory-pigmentary syndrome, PAX3 gene.

Myoclonic Astatic Resistant Epilepsy and Disproportionate Overgrowth Carrying a Duplication in 2q13 and Deletion in the 6p21.32 Chromosomal Regions

Copy number variants have been increasing due to a rise in the availability of array comparative genomic hybridisation, which occupies an important place in diagnosis, especially in patients with epilepsy, dysmorphic findings, and intellectual disability. We detected 2q13 chromosomal duplication and 6p21.32 chromosomal deletion in a patient under follow-up due to epilepsy, developmental retardation, dysmorphic findings, and asymmetric overgrowth in our clinic since the age of six months. The parents had only 2q13 mutations. Copy number variation in 2q13 is associated with dysmorphic findings, psychiatric disorders, and developmental delays. However, the exact pathogenicity is not yet known. We think that 6p21.32 chromosomal deletion caused resistant epilepsy and lipodystrophy in this patient. We anticipate that this case will contribute to the literature by linking disorders caused by the current chromosomal abnormality to clinical findings. Key Words: Myoclonic astatic seizure, Resistant epilepsy, Dermal atrophy, Chromosomal microarray analysis.

Clinical and molecular evaluation of MEFV gene variants in the Turkish population: a study by the National Genetics Consortium

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is a monogenic autoinflammatory disorder with recurrent fever, abdominal pain, serositis, articular manifestations, erysipelas-like erythema, and renal complications as its main features. Caused by the mutations in the MEditerranean FeVer (MEFV) gene, it mainly affects people of Mediterranean descent with a higher incidence in the Turkish, Jewish, Arabic, and Armenian populations. As our understanding of FMF improves, it becomes clearer that we are facing with a more complex picture of FMF with respect to its pathogenesis, penetrance, variant type (gain-of-function vs. loss-of-function), and inheritance. In this study, MEFV gene analysis results and clinical findings of 27,504 patients from 35 universities and institutions in Turkey and Northern Cyprus are combined in an effort to provide a better insight into the genotype-phenotype correlation and how a specific variant contributes to certain clinical findings in FMF patients. Our results may help better understand this complex disease and how the genotype may sometimes contribute to phenotype. Unlike many studies in the literature, our study investigated a broader symptomatic spectrum and the relationship between the genotype and phenotype data. In this sense, we aimed to guide all clinicians and academicians who work in this field to better establish a comprehensive data set for the patients. One of the biggest messages of our study is that lack of uniformity in some clinical and demographic data of participants may become an obstacle in approaching FMF patients and understanding this complex disease.

Heterozygous c.1730G > C (p.Trp577Ser) variation in a case with familial hypercholesterolemia

Introduction: FH is an autosomal dominant disease of lipid metabolism. Hypercholesterolemia, xanthomas, and death from early coronary artery disease (CAD) are common in this disease due to a mutation in the LDLR, Apo-B100 or PCSK9 genes. Case report: A 4-year-old male patient with a very rare heterozygous c.1730G > C (p.Trp577Ser) variation in exon 12 of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) gene that causes familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) was reported. As in this case, the heterozygous form may not show any symptoms in the first decade. This variation is region specific. Therefore, region-specific diagnostic criteria should be developed. Conclusion: We aimed to contribute to the literature on the development of diagnostic criteria by discussing the patient's condition with the clinical results.

May Argyrophilic Nucleolar Organizer Regions Be Used as a Biomarker for the Detection of the Degree of Ischemic Damage Instead of Tunel in Testicular Torsion?

Background and Objectives: It is of great importance to obtain information about the severity of ischemic damage and duration of testicular torsion for an effective treatment strategy. Nucleolar-organizing regions (NORs) are sites of the ribosomal genes composed of ribosomal DNA and proteins. Post-silver staining NORs are termed “AgNOR”. Since AgNORs clearly reveals the self-renewal potential of cells damaged in ischemic events, we performed the current study. Materials and Methods: The study was carried out in four groups as control, sham, early, and late T/D. In the surgical groups, testes were corrected after a 4-h ischemia period. Testicular tissue samples were taken on the third day after detorsion in group 1, 2, 3, and on the tenth day after detorsion in group 4. TUNEL and silver stainings were applied to all samples. Results: The differences were significant among the groups for both mean AgNOR number and total AgNOR area/total nuclear area (TAA/TNA). Moreover, the differences between control and early torsion-detorsion (T/D), between control and late T/D, between sham and early T/D, between sham and late T/D, and between early T/D and late were statistically significant for AgNOR amount. Furthermore, statistically significant differences among the groups for an average number of apoptotic cells per tubule and the percentage of apoptotic tubule values were detected. Discussion: The apoptotic index gives the ratio of cells that are damaged and will die in a programmed way and cells that remain intact, rather than show the viability of the returning testicle. However, by measuring cells that regenerate with AgNOR, we can show not only those that survive but also cells that can repair themselves. Conclusion: AgNOR proteins are usable for the early observation of ischemic injury levels. The amount of AgNOR protein can enlighten us about the extent of testicular damage after T/D treatment. It may also help the physician in the development of effective treatment strategies for cases.

The evaluation of both the expression and serum protein levels of Caspase-3 gene in patients with different degrees of SARS-CoV2 infection

To evaluate the effects of Caspase‐3 (CASP3) gene expression and serum levels on preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection. A total of 41 individuals (male: 21; female: 20) with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were included in the current study. Hemograms were examined from patient blood samples, and CASP3 gene expression levels were detected. Also, human CASP3 levels were determined from the serum samples of patients. The mean age of patients was 56.220 ± 18.937 years. Significant differences were detected among all groups for CASP3 2−ΔΔCt (p = 0.014) and CASP3 concentration (p = 0.024). The relationship between CASP3 2−ΔΔCt levels and hemoglobin (p = 0.023), between CASP3 2−ΔΔCt levels and C‐reactive protein (CRP) (p = 0.001), between CASP3 2−ΔΔCt levels and ferritin (p = 0.003), between CASP3 2−ΔΔCtlevels and lactate dehydrogenase (p =  0.001), and between CASP3 2−ΔΔCt levels and SpO₂ (p = 0.006) were statistically significant. Also, the relationship between CASP3 concentration levels and SpO₂ was statistically significant (p < 0.046). The CASP3 gene and/or its products have an important function to prevent injury caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. They play crucial roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis and viability. Perhaps CASP3 levels may provide information about the severity of the disease.

Newly developed methods for pathogenesis; will guide the control of the epidemic in the future.

The CASP3 gene and/or its products have an important function to prevent injury caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

CASP3 gene can be a prognostic marker for the severity of COVID‐19 disease.

Clinical and molecular findings in a Turkish family with an ultra-rare condition, ELP2-related neurodevelopmental disorder

Elongator is a multi-subunit protein complex bearing six different protein subunits, Elp1 to -6, that are highly conserved among eukaryotes. Elp2 is the second major subunit of Elongator and, together with Elp1 and Elp3, form the catalytic core of this essential complex. Pathogenic variants that affect the structure and function of the Elongator complex may cause neurodevelopmental disorders. Here, we report on a new family with three children affected with a severe form of intellectual disability along with spastic tetraparesis, choreoathetosis, and self injury. Molecular genetic analyses reveal a homozygous missense variant in the ELP2 gene (NM_018255.4 (ELP2): c.1385G > A (p.Arg462Gln)), while in silico studies suggest a loss of electrostatic interactions that may contribute to the overall stability of the encoded protein. We also include a comparison of the patients with ELP2-related neurodevelopmental disorder to those previously reported in the literature. Apart from being affected with intellectual disability, we have extremely limited clinical knowledge about patients harboring ELP2 variants. Besides providing support to the causal role of p.Arg462Gln in ELP2-related neurodevelopmental disorder, we add self-injurious behavior to the clinical phenotypic repertoire of the disease.

Genotype-Phenotype Characteristics of Turkish Children With Glucokinase Mutations Associated Maturity-Onset Diabetes of the Young

OBJECTIVE

To investigate phenotype-genotype correlations in Turkish children with glucokinase gene mutations leading to Maturity-onset diabetes in young (GCK-MODY).

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 40 patients (16 girls) aged under 18 with GCK-MODY.

RESULTS

Mean (SD) serum fasting blood glucose level was 6.79 (0.59) mmol/L and the mean (SD) HbA1c level at diagnosis was 6.3% (0.5). Sixteen different variations were detected in the GCK genes of the 40 cases; 33 missense mutations, 6 deletions, and one nonsense mutation. The birthweight of infants with deletion mutation was significantly lower than that of infants with other mutations [2460 (353.66) g vs 2944.11 (502.08) g].

CONCLUSION

GCK-MODY patients with deletion mutation inherited from mothers had lower birthweight and higher fasting blood glucose than those with other inherited mutations but similar HbA1c values.

Novel mutation identified in the DDB2 gene in patients with xeroderma pigmentosum group-E

BACKGROUND

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare photosensitive syndrome, which is divided into eight complementation groups (XP-A to XP-G and XPV) and characterized by skin cancers diagnosed at early age. A family of seven members (age range between 5 and 47 years) with carriers of the novel nonsense mutation that causes XP-E type were included in the current study.

METHODS

DNA was isolated from peripheral blood samples of the proband, and cancer predisposition genes were sequenced with next-generation sequencing. The demographic features and the laboratory, clinical, and histopathological findings of patients were evaluated.

RESULTS

In the proband, squamous cell carcinoma was first diagnosed in the right-eye cornea at the age of 13 years and then in the left-eye cornea at the age of 15 years. Later, the patient was diagnosed with basosquamous cell carcinoma on the dorsum of the nose at the age of 18 years. After genetic analysis, a novel nonsense c.1063C>T(p.Arg355Ter) pathogenic variation that causes XP-E type was detected as homozygous in the DDB2 gene of the proband and her siblings, 11 and 5 years of age, and as heterozygous in her parents and a 22-year-old brother.

CONCLUSION

Because of the occurrence of early termination codon, truncated nonfunctional proteins or proteins with deleterious loss or gain-of-function activities are synthesized in nonsense mutation. Thus, to avoid the development of pathological lesions, it is important that such patients with nonsense mutation stay away from agents that might cause DNA damage and develop an appropriate lifestyle according to this condition.

Combination of Novel c.3484G> T/p.Glu162Ter Variant in ABCB11 and c.208G> A/p.Asp70Asn Variant in ATP8B1 Are Associated with Severe Symptoms in Progressive Family Intrahepatic Cholestasis

Progressive family intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) is an autosomal recessive disease that causes chronic cholestasis. It is associated with pathogenic variants in genes that encode proteins involved in bile secretion to canaliculus from hepatocytes. In this study, we present a 16-year-old boy who presented with severe pruritus and cholestatic jaundice. All possible infectious etiologies were negative. A liver biopsy was consistent with intrahepatic cholestasis and portal fibrosis. DNA was isolated from a peripheral blood sample, and whole exome sequencing was performed. A novel c.3484G > T/p.Glu162Ter variant in the ABCB11 gene and a c.208G> A/p.Asp70Asn variant in the ATP8B1 gene were detected. Despite traditional treatment, the patient's recurrent severe symptoms did not improve. The patient was referred for a liver transplantation. This novel c.3484G > T/p.Glu162Ter variant is associated with a severe and recurrent presentation, and the two compound variants could explain the severity of PFIC.

The Association of Hereditary Prothrombotic Risk Factors with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction

Objective

The ST- elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), a serious health care problem, is commonly a thrombotic complication of coronary artery disease. We compare the STEMI patients and control group in terms of the possible causes of inherited thrombophilia including FactorV Cambridge G1091C, FactorV Leiden G1691A, MTHFRC677T, MTHFR A1298C, FactorII G20210A, Factor XIII (V34L), PAI-1, FGB, ITGB3, APOB, FVHR2, ACE gene variants.

Methods

Fifty-three patients with STEMI and 47 individuals without diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome were included in the study. Percutaneous coronary intervention was performed for patients with STEMI. Echocardiography was performed and inherited thrombophilia genes were evaluated in all subjects.

Results

The MTHFR A1298C, Factor XIII (V34L), ITGB, ACE and homozygous or compound heterozygous gene varations of inherited thrombophilia are significantly related with STEMI (p<0.05). Also significantly higher MTHFR A1298C, FactorV Leiden G1691A, PAI and ACE gene variations in MI patients who were smokers; Factor XIII (V34L), PAI and ACE gene variations in MI patients with HT; PAI and ACE gene variation in MI patients with FH and PAI gene variations in MI patients with HL were detected when compared with the control groups with all of the same risk factors (p<0.05).

Conclusion

Hereditary thrombophilia factors may show promise in the prevention and management of STEMI when supported studies with larger case series.

Evaluation of Cases with Myotonia Congenita for Cardiovascular Risk

Objective

Myotonia Congenita (MC) is a hereditary neuromuscular disorder caused by a mutation in chloride voltage-gated channel 1 (CLCN1) gene. The incidence of MC is estimated as 1 in 100.000. The absence of left main coronary artery (LMCA) is a rare coronary anomaly. Here we present a family with four members who have MC variation carrier and cardiovascular risk.

Method

The demographic features, laboratory findings, anthropometric measurements and cardiological examination of the cases were recorded. In addition, CLCN1 gene was sequenced by NGS (Next Generation Sequencing Method) and possible causes of inherited thrombophilia risk including MTHFR (A1298C), Factor V Leiden (G1691A), Factor II (G20210A), MTHFR (C677T), Factor V Cambridge (G1091C), plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1) 4G/5G, APOE, APOB, ITGB, ACE (ins/del), FVHR2 and FGB gene alterations were evaluated.

Results

Case 1 had homozygous c.1886T>C (p.Leu629Pro) alteration in CLCN1 gene and also coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction (MI) history, hyperlipidemia, primary hypertension, vertigo, lomber disc herniation and hearing loss. LMCA was not detected in coronary angiography in Case 1. Cases 2, 3 and 4 had heterozygous c.1886T>C (p.Leu629Pro) alteration with normal electrocardiographic and echocardiographic findings. Additionally, all of family members had genetic risk factors for the related gene, which lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Conclusion

Since alteration of chloride channels in cardiomyocytes leads to variable myocardial involvement, cases with MC should be regularly followed for cardiovascular risk. Moreover, the cases with MC and with genetic profile associated with high cardiovascular risk should also be regularly followed up by cardiologists.

The detection of curcumins' antitumoral effects via argyrophilic nucleolar organizing region-associated protein synthesis in mice with ehrlich's ascitic carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Curcumin is a polyphenol compound that has antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic and antimicrobial effects. Nucleolar-organizing regions are the sites of the gene on chromosomes. The present study was aimed to show the antitumoral effect of curcumin via AgNOR protein synthesis in Ehrlich's ascitic carcinoma (EAC) bearing mice.

METHODS

Twenty three mice with EAC were randomly divided into 3 groups as positive control (n = 7), group 2 (n = 8) and 3 (n = 8) treated intraperitoneally with curcumin (25 mg/kg) and (50 mg/kg), respectively. The animals were sacrificed on Day 16, the solid tumors were removed out. Then, total AgNOR area/nuclear area (TAA/NA) and the mean AgNOR number were estimated for each mice.

RESULT

Statistically significant differences were determined among the whole groups for TAA/NA ratio (p = 0.000), conversely mean AgNOR number (p = 0.361). When comparingthe two groups; while no difference was determined between the control and curcumin (25 mg/kg) groups (p = 0.061), the significant differences were detected between the control and curcumin (50 mg/kg) groups (p = 0.000) and between curcumin (25 mg/kg) and curcumin (50 mg/kg) groups (p = 0.000) for TAA/NA ratio. However, there was no significant difference for the mean AgNOR number in double comparison of the groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study showed that curcumin had a crucial function against cancer development. Also, both AgNOR values might be used as biomarkers for detection of the most reliable therapeutic dose selection of cancer treatment (Tab. 3, Fig. 2, Ref. 27).

May argyrophilic nucleolar organizing region-associated protein synthesis be used for selecting the most reliable dose of drugs such as rhamnetin in cancer treatments?

BACKGROUND

Rhamnetin is a flavonoid that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Nucleolar-organizing regions are the ribosomal genes region. We aimed to identify whether rhamnetin has an effect on cell proliferation and whether AgNOR proteins may be used for the detection of therapeutic benefits of the drugs and new metabolites, which have the potential of being used for cancer treatments.

METHODS

Twenty-four mice with Ehrlich's ascites carcinoma (EAC) were randomly assigned to three main groups as positive control, and groups 2 and 3 treated intraperitoneally with rhamnetin (100 µg/kg and 200 µg/kg, respectively). All the animals were sacrificed on day16, 24 h after the last dose; the tumors, which developed at the site of injection were removed. Then, mean AgNOR number and total AgNOR area/nuclear area (TAA/NA) were detected for each mouse.

RESULTS

Significant differences were detected among all groups for mean AgNOR number (p = 0.000) and TAA/NA ratio (p = 0.000). While the difference between positive control and Rhamnetin (100 µg/kg) group was not significant (p = 0.387), there are significant differences between positive control and Rhamnetin (200 µg/kg) group (p = 0.000) and between Rhamnetin (100 µg/kg) and Rhamnetin (200 µg/kg) groups (p = 0.000) for TAA/NA ratio.

CONCLUSION

Rhamnetin has an important role in preventing cancer formation. Our study showed that mean AgNOR numbers and TAA/NA values may be used also as biomarkers for evaluating the success rate of the performed therapeutic strategy and accurate dose selection for the management of the disease (Tab. 3, Fig. 3, Ref. 45).

Are there any effects of chronic carbon monoxide exposure on argyrophilic nucleolar-organizing region–associated protein synthesis in rat myocardium?

The aims of the study are to detect whether there are any possible effects of chronic carbon monoxide (CO) exposure on the argyrophilic nucleolar-organizing region (AgNOR)–associated protein synthesis and evaluate any possible relationship between the amount of AgNOR protein and the level of myocardial injury also and between AgNOR and histopathological evaluation methods. Adult male albino Wistar rats ( n = 18) were randomly divided into three groups (groups A, B, and C). Group A served as control, while groups B and C were rats exposed to CO gas chronically (1000 and 3000 ppm CO concentration with a flow rate of 4 L/min for 30 min/day for 7 days, respectively). Total AgNOR area/nuclear area (TAA/NA) and the mean AgNOR numbers for each myocyte nucleus were determined. There were significant differences among all groups for TAA/NA ratio. These differences were not significant for mean AgNOR numbers. According to the histopathological evaluation scores, there were significant differences between the groups. The differences were significant among the groups for loss of sarcomere pattern. A strong positive correlation between histopathological injury scores and TAA/NA ratio was found ( Rsq = 0.48; p = 0.002), however, the correlation was not significant for mean AgNOR numbers ( Rsq = 0.08; p = 0.25). In conclusion, TAA/NA ratio can be used as an indicator for obtaining information about the level of myocardial damage instead of histopathological evaluation scores.

Association Between Human Hair Loss and the Expression Levels of Nucleolin, Nucleophosmin, and UBTF Genes

AIMS

Nucleolar organizer regions, also known as argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions, are associated with ribosomal genes. The main function of the nucleolus is the rapid production of ribosomal subunits, a process that must be highly regulated to provide the appropriate levels for cellular proliferation and cell growth. There are no studies in the literature addressing the expression and function of nucleolar component proteins, including nucleophosmin, nucleolin and the upstream binding transcription factor (UBTF), in human follicular hair cells.

METHODS

Nineteen healthy males who had normal and sufficient hair follicles on the back of the head, but exhibited hair loss on the frontal/vertex portions of the head and 14 healthy males without hair loss were included in the current study. Gene expression levels were measured by relative quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

In the individuals suffering from alopecia, the total expression levels of nucleolin, nucleophosmin, and UBTF were lower in normal sites than in hair loss sites. Strong expression level correlations were detected between: nucleophosmin and nucleolin; nucleophosmin and UBTF, and nucleolin and UBTF for both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

There was an association between human hair loss and the expression levels of nucleolin, nucleophosmin, and UBTF genes.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CONGENITAL HEART DEFECTS AND e-NOS GENE IN DOWN SYNDROME

The aim of the study was to compare the effects of three eNOS gene polymorphisms associated with congenital heart defects, between Down syndrome patients with and without cardiac anomalies. Transthoracic echocardiographic examinations and eNOS single-nucleotide polymorphisms were investigated on seventy-five patients, prospectively. The frequencies of mutant alleles in the eNOS promoter (the -786T/C polymorphism) and exon 7 mutant alleles (the 894G--->T polymorphism) were significantly higher in Down syndrome patients with and without cardiac anomalies. The frequency of the intron GIOT polymorphism did not significantly differ between patients with and without cardiac anomalies. We found a significant relationship between eNOS gene polymorphisms and the congenital heart defects in patients with Down syndrome. Screening for the presence or absence of eNOS polymorphisms may be useful to obtain preliminary data on the risk of congenital heart defects in patients with Down syndrome.

MEGALENCEPHALIC LEUKOENCEPHALOPATHY WITH SUBCORTICAL CYSTS WITH HOMOZYGOUS MUTATION (C.448DELC, P.LEU150 SER FSX11) ON EXON 6 OF MLC1 GENE

MLC or Van der Knaap disease is a rare entity, a rare and genetically heterogeneous cerebral white matter disease. It is characterized by the presence of macrocephaly, epilepsy and a slowly progressive spastic cerebellar syndrome. It is an autosomal recessive disease caused from mutations of MLC1 gene. In the current case report, a case with MLC who had a homozygous mutation (c.448delC, p.Leul50 ser fsX11) on exon 6 of MLC1 gene is presented.

Argyrophilic nucleolar organizing region associated protein synthesis for cytologic discrimination of follicular thyroid lesions

Fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) of the thyroid gland is an important tool for preoperative diagnosis; however, its benefit is limited for follicular lesions. Nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) are ribosomal gene regions that stain with silver (Ag) when they are active. These regions can be used to differentiate neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions. We used a new AgNOR technique to investigate FNAB of cases diagnosed as follicular adenoma and carcinoma. Fourteen cases of follicular thyroid carcinoma (FTC) and 28 cases of thyroid follicular adenomas (FA) were stained using the silver NOR-associated protein (AgNOR) technique. One hundred nuclei per sample were examined, AgNORs were counted, and the total AgNOR area/nuclear area (TNORa/Na) ratio of each cell was calculated. We found that cases with FTC had significantly higher TNORa/Na than cases of FA. Also, cases with FTC had significantly higher AgNOR counts than cases with FA. AgNOR counting may help discriminate FTC and FA by routine cytopathology before surgery.

Is one-time carbon monoxide intoxication harmless? Evaluation by argyrophilic nucleolar-organizing regions staining method

In carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, CO affects the oxygen-carrying capacity of the hemoglobin molecule. Nucleolar-organizing regions (NORs) are genetic loci on chromosomes that are composed of ribosomal DNA and proteins. NORs can be stained with silver. A total of 18 rats were exposed to CO in three different concentrations (1000, 3000, and 5000 ppm) with 6 rats as controls. The animals were euthanized 7 days after CO intoxication. Lung tissues were taken, embedded in paraffin blocks, and sectioned at 5 μm thickness. Argyrophilic nucleolar-organizing region (AgNOR) staining was carried out. One hundred nuclei per individual were evaluated, and total AgNOR number per total nuclear number and total AgNOR area per nuclear area (TAA/NA) for each nucleus were analyzed. The CO exposure groups had significantly higher TAA/NA values and AgNOR numbers than the control group ( p < 0.05). Although the differences between 1000 ppm and the other two CO-exposed groups were meaningful ( p < 0.05) in the TAA/NA values, there were no differences among the CO exposure groups for the AgNOR number ( p > 0.05). The increase in TAA/NA value depends on the increase in the CO exposure. Significant correlations between both the AgNOR values and histopathological scoring methods were found. Therefore, AgNOR staining method may be used as an indirect indicator for evaluating the degree of cell damage rate.

Does the MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism indicate cardiovascular disease risk in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients?

Objective:

Diabetes mellitus is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD). We investigated the relationship among biochemical and cardiac risk parameters with the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T genotype in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

Methods:

One hundred seven T2DM subjects with severe CVD diagnosed by angiography were included consecutively in this cross-sectional study. Biochemical and clinical parameters were obtained from patients who were not positive for nephropathy and retinopathy. MTHFR C677T genotypes were analyzed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) methods. Normally and abnormally distributed continuous variables were analyzed using student t- and Mann-Whitney U tests. Categorical variables were analyzed using chi-square test.

Results:

In the study, 31 T2DM subjects had the CC (29.0%), 62 had the CT (57.9%), and 14 had the TT (13.1%) genotypes. There were no significant differences between subjects with wild-type (677CC) and with mutant (677CT+677TT) alleles in terms of diabetes duration, visceral fat area, total cholesterol, triglyceride, fasting plasma glucose, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, homocysteine (Hcy), and carotid intima-media thickness values.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that MTHFR gene polymorphisms can not be used as a marker for the assessment of cardiovascular risk in T2DM patients.

Evaluation of chromosomal abnormalities and common trombophilic mutations in cases with recurrent miscarriage

BACKGROUND

Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is a frequent obstetric problem. Its' pathophysiology is poorly understood. Infections, genetic, endocrine, anatomic and immunologic problems have been suggested as causes for RM.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the frequency of chromosomal abnormalities and 3 common thrombophilic mutations in couples with RM.

METHODS

A retrospective data collection was performed for the results of the cytogenetic analysis of the couples and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) C677T, Factor V Leiden (FVL) G1691A and Prothrombin (PTm) G20210A mutations of the mother in 142 couples suffering from RM.

RESULTS

Prevalence of FVL, MTHFR, and PTm gene mutations were similar between cases shaving 2 or ≥3 abortions (P=0.528; P=0.233; P=0.375). In patients with FVL, MTHFR and PTm gene mutations, the OR's of having ≥3 abortions when compared to having 2 abortions were 1.515 (95% CI: 0.414-5.552), 0.573 (95% CI: 0.228-1.441), and 2.848 (95% CI: 0.355-22.871). All cases with PTm mutation had ≥3 abortions and all abortions occurred between 6-8 gestational weeks.

CONCLUSION

Chromosomal abnormalities and thrombophilic mutations (especially PTm) seem to have an important role in RM. Additional larger studies involving investigation of more genes that may have a role in pregnancy are needed to assess this association.

Anophthalmia-plus syndrome with unusual findings. A clinical report and review of the literature

We present a male child at 3 years old with Anophthalmia-Plus Syndrome (APS). He has asymmetry of the face and head, left choanal atresia, a sunken facial appearance, microphthalmia in the right eye, severe microphthalmia in the left eye, bilateral low-set ears, scarring from cleft palate surgery. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sections revealed decreased right globe volume, an undeveloped left globe, decreased left optical nerve thickness, Chiari type 2 malformation, left choanal atresia and cleft palate. Echocardiography and abdominal ultrasonography were normal. The patient has a 45 dB conductive hearing loss in the left ear. Repeated thyroid function tests were evaluated as compatible with central hypothyroidism. We report a Fryns Anophthalmia-Plus Syndrome in a child with unusual findings including central hypothyroidism, chiari type 2 malformation, conductive hearing loss and developmental regression. Summary of the features reported in the present case and all 14 previous cases that might be defined as APS.

Evaluation of smoking habits among Turkish family physicians

Smoking is still a major public health problem in Turkey. It was aimed to investigate smoking prevalence and habits among Turkish family physicians. Cross-sectional study among physicians working in primary care settings was established. A self-administered study survey was applied. The surveys of 1233 family physicians were analyzed. The study included 704 (57.1%) male and 529 (42.9%) female physicians. Mean age (SD) was 38.94 (7.01) years. The proportions of the current, the former and never smokers among family physicians were 34.1%, 14.7% and 51.3%, respectively. Mean age (SD) of smoking initiation was 21.73 (5.04) years. Mean duration (SD) of smoking use was 14.61 (7.29) years. Proportion of current smoker in male physicians was quite higher than in female counterparts (36.9% vs. 30.4%; p < 0.001). Mean age (SD) of smoking initiation in female was 21.42 (4.59) years, but in male was 22.33 (4.98) years (p = 0.36). In female physicians, mean age (SD) for quitting cigarette smoking was found higher than in male (35.85 (6.35) years vs. 33.09 (6.45) years; p = 0.004). No significant difference between nicotine dependence (mean score (SD) of 3.76 (2.48) vs. 3.65 (2.82); p > 0.05) and mean (SD) unit of cigarette a day (18.34(6.03) vs. 17.17 ± 6.79; p > 0.05) between genders was observed. The number of male physicians who started smoking before faculty was higher than female counterparts (15.5% vs. 8.6%; p = 0.023). In conclusion, the smoking prevalence among Turkish family physicians is considerably high.

EEC syndrome with a de novo mutation (c.953g > a) on exon 7 of P63 gene: a case report

EEC syndrome is characterized by ectodermal dysplasia, ectrodactyly and cleft lip and/or palate and associated anomalies such as lacrimal duct obstruction, urinary tract anomaly, and hearing loss. This syndrome is a rare autosomal dominant disorder caused by heterozygous mutations in the p63 gene. Herein, a newborn infant with EEC syndrome with secundum atrial septal defect who had a de novo mutation (c.953G > A) on exon 7 of p63 gene is presented.

Does higher NORs expression affect the developmental stages of Down syndrome infants?

BACKGROUND

The nucleolar organizer regions (NORs) are localized at the secondary constriction of the five pairs of acrocentric chromosomes (13, 14, 15, 21 and 22) in human.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To evaluate whether increasing AgNOR protein synthesis effects or not the development of babies/children, 25 Down syndrome patients were included in this study. Firstly, the Ankara Development Screening Inventory (AGTE) test was performed. Then the buccal epithelial cells of patients were taken via a sterile toothpick on clean glass slides and spreaded and AgNOR staining technique was applied to the slides of each individual. Mean NOR area/Total nucleus area (NORa/TNa) were evaluated for each nucleus using a special computer program.

RESULTS

The mean NORa/TNa was found to be 3.8+/-1.16. According to these data, a significant correlation was not evident between the NORa/TNa and developmental stages (p>0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There is no correlation between extra energy spending for NOR protein synthesis and developmental deficiency.