Effect of educational intervention on preventing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

In the experimental group, the average scores of knowledge, constructs of theory of planned behavior, nutrition, and walking had a significant enhancement compared to the control group after the educational intervention. After the intervention, the value of the lumbar spine bone mineral density T-score in the experimental group increased, while in the control group, it decreased.

INTRODUCTION

Osteoporosis is a global public health problem currently affecting millions of people worldwide and in Iran. This study was conducted to assess the effect of an educational intervention based on the theory of planned behavior on the prevention of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

METHODS

This quasi-experimental study was performed on 160 women aging over 50 who were referred to health centers in Fasa City, Iran, in 2019. A simple random sampling method was applied to assign the participants into control and intervention groups (80 participants for each group). Data were gathered by questionnaires arranged based on the constructs of the theory of planned behavior, nutrition performance, and walking performance. The educational intervention included seven 50-minute educational sessions. The obtained data were analyzed using SPSS 22 software and Chi-square test, independent T-test, and paired T-test, and the significance level was considered 0.05.

RESULTS

The mean ages of the studied participants in the experimental and control groups were 59.18 ± 6.56 and 57.92 ± 5.70, respectively. In the experimental group, the average scores of knowledge, constructs of the theory of planned behavior, nutrition performance, and walking performance had a significant enhancement compared to the control group one year after the intervention (p < 0.001). At 12 months after the intervention, the value of the lumbar spine bone mineral density T-score in the experimental group increased, while in the control group, it reduced (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The theory of planned behavior affected nutrition and walking performance in osteoporosis prevention of subjects. This theory can be used as a framework for designing and performing educational interventions for preventing osteoporosis and promoting women's health.

Investigation of the anti-inflammatory effects of native potential probiotics as supplementary therapeutic agents in an in-vitro model of inflammation

BACKGROUND

IBD is considered an inflammatory disease with abnormal and exaggerated immune responses. To control the symptoms, different theraputic agents could be used, however, utilizing the agents with the least side effects could be important. Probiotics as beneficial microorganisms are one of the complementory theraputic agents that could be used to modulate inflammatory signaling pathways. In the current study, we aimed to identify the precise molecular effects of potential probiotics on signaling pathways involved in the development of inflammation.

METHODS

A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was used to analyze the expression of JAK /STAT (JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, TYK2, STAT1, STAT2, STAT3, STAT4, STAT5 and STAT6) and inflammatory genes (NEMO, TIRAP, IRAK, and RIP) after the HT -29 cell line treatment with the sonicated pathogens and potential probiotics. A cytokine assay was also used to evaluate IL -6 and IL -1β production after potential probiotic treatment.

RESULTS

The potential probiotic cocktail downregulated the JAK genes and TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF-kB pathway compared with cells that were treated with sonicated gram negative pathogens. The expression of STAT genes was different after potential probiotic treatment. The production of IL -6 and IL -1β decreased after potential probiotic treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Considering the importance of controlling the symptoms of IBD to improve the life quality of the patients, using probiotic could be crucial. In the current study the studied native potential probiotic cocktails showed anti-inflammatory effects via modulation of JAK /STAT and NF-kB signaling pathways. This observation suggests that our native potential probiotics consumption could be useful in reducing intestinal inflammation.

Ameliorating inflammation in an in vitro model by screening the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory roles of putative probiotics in inflammatory bowel disease

IBD is considered a relapsing disease with relapsing phases. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that modulate inflammatory signaling pathways. Our aim was to identify the precise molecular effects of probiotics on inflammatory signaling pathways during the presence of inflammation. Evaluation of the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes after treatment of the HT -29 cell line with the sonicated pathogens and probiotics, simultaneously was performed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay. The production of IL-6 and IL-1β after administration of probiotics was conducted by means of cytokine assay. The probiotic cocktail resulted in the downregulation of TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF-кB pathway compared with Sonicat-treated cells. The expression of JAK/STAT genes was various after probiotic treatment. The application of probiotics has been observed to result in a notable decrease in the production of IL-6 and IL-1β. The investigated probiotic cocktail, especially Bifidobacterium spp. showed anti-inflammatory effects on HT -29 cells via modulation of JAK/STAT and NF-кB signaling pathways. The use of probiotics with the least side effects could be considered a suitable treatment for patients with inflammatory bowel disease, even at the beginning of inflammation.

Prophylactic vs. Therapeutic Effect of Probiotics on the Inflammation Mediated by the NF-κB Pathway in Inflammatory Bowel Conditions

Probiotic supplements consumed adequately at the proper time can affect health by modulating inflammatory pathways in gastrointestinal epithelial cells and modifying the resultant inflammatory response. The current study applied in vitro models to investigate the effectiveness of probiotics in modulating inflammatory pathways and altering inflammatory gene expression in gastrointestinal epithelial cells, with the ultimate goal of promoting probiotic consumption as a therapeutic and preventive measure for chronic inflammatory bowel conditions. HT-29 cells were treated with Gram-negative bacteria to evaluate the changes in pathways related to inflammation activities before and after treatment with a Lactobacillus spp. cocktail (L. plantarum, L. rhamnosus, L. brevis, and L. ruteri) and a Bifidobacterium spp. cocktail (B. bifidum, B. langum, and B. breve) using the real-time PCR method and ELISA for IL-1β and IL-6 as pro-inflammatory cytokines. The results showed that the expression of NF-κB signaling pathway genes and IL-1β and IL-6 cytokines increased after exposure to Gram-negative components. In contrast, all probiotic combinations significantly decreased the expression of genes and the secretion of cytokines. However, this decrease was significantly smaller in cells that underwent probiotic treatment after inflammation induction. In addition, cocktails containing combined Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium demonstrated robust anti-inflammatory activity relative to solo cocktails. Our observations confirm that probiotic consumption could positively impact inflammatory conditions and alleviate inflammatory symptoms; they can be particularly effective as a preventive measure. Our study provides preliminary evidence to support the lifetime consumption of probiotics.

The potential role of Bifidobacterium spp. as a preventive and therapeutic agent in controlling inflammation via affecting inflammatory signalling pathways

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease with relapses and periods of remission. Forasmuch as, dysregulation of the immune system is one of the triggers of IBD, taking probiotics as one of the immunomodulators in the gut, could help to control inflammation and IBD via influencing signalling pathways. Here, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of five selected Bifidobacterium strains in modulating JAK/STAT and NF-kB inflammatory signalling pathways via using the in vitro assay. A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assay was used to analyse the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes followed by potential probiotic treatments before, after and simultaneously with the inflammation induction (sonicated pathogen). The production of IL-6 and IL-1β after probiotic treatment was evaluated. Probiotic treatment resulted in the downregulation of TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO and RIP genes in the NF-kB pathway, as well as JAK genes compared to sonicate-treated cells. The expression of STAT genes was different after our selected Bifidobacterium strains treatment. The production of IL-6 and IL-1β decreased after probiotic treatment. These strains of Bifidobacterium spp. showed anti-inflammatory effects on HT-29 cells via modulation of JAK/STAT and NF-kB signalling pathways. The use of Bifidobacterium spp. could be considered as a suitable preventive and complementary treatment for patients with inflammatory bowel disease.

Anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects of Lactobacillus spp. as a preservative and therapeutic agent for IBD control

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

The effects of the probiotic cocktail on modulation of the NF-kB and JAK/STAT signaling pathways involved in the inflammatory response in bowel disease model

Background

Probiotics positively affect inflammatory responses, in part, through Janus kinase/signal transduction and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) and inflammatory signaling pathways. To evaluate the precise effects of probiotics as protective treatment, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness of Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp., and a mixture of these probiotics in modulating the JAK/STAT and inflammatory signaling pathways.

Methods

A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was used to analyze the expression of JAK/STAT and inflammatory genes (TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP) following HT-29 cell line treatment with sonicated pathogens Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp., and a mixed cocktail. A cytokine assay was also used to evaluate the IL-6 and IL-1β production following the probiotic treatment.

Results

The probiotic cocktail downregulated the JAK genes and TIRAP, IRAK4, NEMO, and RIP genes in the NF-kB pathway compared to sonicate pathogen treatment cells. The expression of STAT genes was variable following probiotic treatment. The IL-6 and IL-1β production decreased after probiotic treatment.

Conclusions

Our probiotic cocktail showed anti-inflammatory effects on HT-29 cells by modulating JAK/STAT and NF-kB pathways. Therefore, Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp. probiotics as nutritional supplements may reduce inflammation-associated diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Decreased mucosal adhesion of Lactobacillus species in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

BACKGROUND

Probiotic Lactobacillus spp. modulate immune response via interactions of their binding proteins with epithelial cells. We studied the presence of attachment protein-encoding genes (mub1, mub2, and mapA) in Lactobacillus strains with probiotic features isolated from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients and their attachment strength relative to healthy individuals.

METHODS

Bacterial strains have been isolated from stool samples of 35 healthy and 23 IBD volunteers. Lactobacillus spp. were identified using PCR. Strains with probiotic features were determined by testing resistance against acid and bile. Isolates were assigned as non-adhesive, adhesive, and strongly adhesive strains based on the number of attached bacteria to epithelial cells. Finally, PCR was used to detect the presence of mub1, mub2, and mapA genes.

RESULTS

Probiotic lactobacilli were isolated from 35/35 and 9/23 of healthy and IBD individuals and yielded a total of 87 and 28 strains, respectively. The Mub1 gene was detected in 95.4% and 100% (p>0.05), mub2 in 95.4% and 89.3% (p>0.05), and mapA in 94.3% and 78.6% (p<0.05) of healthy and IBD isolates, respectively. The numbers of bacteria attached to epithelial cells in healthy and IBD isolates were respectively 33.68±6.00 and 12.23±3.87 in non-adhesive, 71.3±10.83 and 42.17±1.33 in adhesive, 124.40±8.59 and 104.67±5.50 in the strongly adhesive group (p< 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Less Lactobacillus spp. with weaker attachments to epithelial cells colonize the gut in IBD than healthy individuals. These findings suggest the beneficial role of probiotics in the management of IBD.

Lithium and preventing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer patients: a placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a common adverse effect of some chemotherapy regimens. Lithium has been suggested for CIPN in some animal studies. We aimed to study lithium's preventive effect on CIPN in breast cancer patients treated with taxanes and platinum-based medications.

METHOD

A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial (RCT) was implemented on 36 breast cancer patients in two equal-size groups by block randomization. Participants in both groups consumed daily tablets, either placebo or lithium (300 mg), for 5 days in each course of chemotherapy. The tablets were prescribed 1 day before the start of chemotherapy. The electromyography (EMG) and nerve-conduction-velocity (NCV) tests were achieved before the first chemotherapy, 3 and 9 months after the treatment. The changes and signs or symptoms of CIPN, such as numbness, tingling, freezing, sensitivity to touch, muscle weakness, fibrillation, and knee and elbow reflex disorders, were recorded by examination. The trend of outcome changes was compared between two groups during the 9 months of study.

RESULTS

In both groups, neurologic signs and symptoms were exacerbated during the first 3 months and improved up to the ninth month of study. Results showed significant changes of all EMG-NCV variables during the 9 months of research in each group (P < 0.001), but the interaction of time and group effect was not significant in none of those indices. All symptoms changed significantly over the study time (P < 0.001) without significant statistical difference between the two groups (P=0.352). No side effect was found during the study.

CONCLUSION

The study showed that 300 mg lithium prescription once daily for 5 days might not effectively prevent CIPN in breast cancer patients. Evaluation of lithium effect on CIPN on different cancers in future studies is suggested.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials IRCT20160813029327N10 .  Registration date: May 16, 2018.

Nutritional value of whole date waste and evaluating its application in ostrich diets

Although date waste products have been used as an alternative feed source in the diets of poultry for a long time, there is no quantitative information available regarding date waste used in ostrich diets. Therefore, two experiments were performed to evaluate the feeding value of whole date waste (WDW) as a feed ingredient in ostrich diets. In the first experiment, apparent metabolizable energy corrected to zero nitrogen balance (AMEn) of WDW was determined using 12 young ostriches (6 months old). The treatments included a reference diet and a test diet consisting of 60% of the reference diet and 40% of WDW. The AMEn of the WDW determined by total collection was 3216 kcal/kg. In the second study, four groups of eight growing ostriches (seven month old), with almost similar BW (60.4 ± 1.6 kg), were individually housed in outdoor paddocks of ≈24 m² and were tested from 7 to 9 months of age. The groups were fed four isocaloric (2420 kcal of AMEn/kg) and isonitrogenous (16.4% CP) diets containing 0, 10, 20, and 30% WDW. The results demonstrated that there were no significant differences among treatments in average daily feed intake, average daily gain, feed conversion ratio, and apparent total tract digestibility coefficients of DM, organic matter, energy, ether extract, ash, nitrogen-free extract, calcium, and phosphorus. In contrast, birds fed 0, 10, and 20% WDW diets had similar CP digestibility and this was significantly (P < 0.001) higher than that of birds on 30% WDW diet. The least crude fibre digestibility (P = 0.003) was also observed in birds fed 30% WDW diet. Blood RBC count, lymphocyte percentage, glucose concentration, and glutathione peroxidase activity increased linearly (P < 0.01), whereas heterophil percentage and heterophil-to-lymphocyte ratio decreased linearly (P = 0.002), in response to dietary inclusion of WDW. It can be concluded that WDW can be incorporated into the diets of ostrich chicks at levels of up to 30% without compromising growth performance. These results also suggest that WDW could be used as a feed ingredient for growing ostriches to improve stress-related variables and antioxidant status.

Effects of green synthesis of sulfur nanoparticles from Cinnamomum zeylanicum barks on physiological and biochemical factors of Lettuce (Lactuca sativa)

In this study, the effect of green synthesized sulfur nanoparticle (SNP) at different concentration (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 mg/ml) on some physiological, phytochemical and biochemical traits of lettuce plants was investigated. For the first time, SNP were green synthesized using Cinnamomum zeylanicum barks extract. Our results indicated that the treatment of lettuce plants with 1 mg/ml of SNP improved the growth and photosynthetic parameters of lettuce plants than related control. Some other physiological parameters such as proline, glycine betaine and soluble sugars levels along with some phytochemical parameters like anthocyanin, total phenol, flavonoids and tannin contents were enhanced after treatment of the plants with same concentration of SNP. On the other hand, specific activity of antioxidant enzymes (catalase, ascorbate peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase) and stress markers level, MDA and H2O2 were reduced in the same treated lettuce plants. However, a concentration of 10 mg/ml of SNP exhibited toxicity on lettuce plants with inducing oxidative stress markers (H2O2 and MDA) and consequently reducing plant growth and biomass. This oxidative stress tend to diminish some physiological, phytochemical and biochemical parameters in treated lettuce plants. Overall, it can be concluded that the green synthesis SNP at an optimal concentration of 1 mg/ml improved physiological parameters in the lettuce plants making them potent to tolerate stressful conditions. However, higher concentration of SNP (10 mg/ml) indicated toxic effects on all of the physiological parameters.

Piperlongumine as anticancer agent: The story so far about killing many birds with one stone

Piperlongumine is a biologically and pharmacologically active constituent of the plant Piper longum. This compound is gradually gaining attention because of its ability to inhibit/prevent different cancers. Modern era of molecular oncology is incomplete without ground-breaking discoveries made in the field of cell signaling pathways. High-throughput technologies have considerably improved our understanding about wide ranging signal transduction cascades which play crucial role in cancer development and progression. It is exciting to note that piperlongumine has been shown to pleiotropically modulate different oncogenic signaling pathways. We partition this multi-component review into discrete sections and categorically summarize key findings related to excellent ability of piperlongumine to therapeutically target JAK-STAT, NF-kB and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways. We also set spotlight on regulation of TRAIL pathway and autophagy by piperlongumine in different cancers. On the basis of the current understanding of piperlongumine, molecular biologists and pharmacologists will develop the next generation of translational studies, which will prove to be helpful in improving the clinical outcome and getting a step closer to personalized medicine.

Regulatory network analysis of Epstein-Barr virus identifies functional modules and hub genes involved in infectious mononucleosis

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is the most common cause of infectious mononucleosis (IM) and establishes lifetime infection associated with a variety of cancers and autoimmune diseases. The aim of this study was to develop an integrative gene regulatory network (GRN) approach and overlying gene expression data to identify the representative subnetworks for IM and EBV latent infection (LI). After identifying differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in both IM and LI gene expression profiles, functional annotations were applied using gene ontology (GO) and BiNGO tools, and construction of GRNs, topological analysis and identification of modules were carried out using several plugins of Cytoscape. In parallel, a human-EBV GRN was generated using the Hu-Vir database for further analyses. Our analysis revealed that the majority of DEGs in both IM and LI were involved in cell-cycle and DNA repair processes. However, these genes showed a significant negative correlation in the IM and LI states. Furthermore, cyclin-dependent kinase 2 (CDK2) - a hub gene with the highest centrality score - appeared to be the key player in cell cycle regulation in IM disease. The most significant functional modules in the IM and LI states were involved in the regulation of the cell cycle and apoptosis, respectively. Human-EBV network analysis revealed several direct targets of EBV proteins during IM disease. Our study provides an important first report on the response to IM/LI EBV infection in humans. An important aspect of our data was the upregulation of genes associated with cell cycle progression and proliferation.

Prevalence of Cytomegalovirus in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis: A Case-Control Study in Northern Iran

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic debilitating disease known as one of the most common neurological dysfunctions in young adults. Recent studies suggest that infections with herpesviruses play a critical role in the pathogenesis of MS.

OBJECTIVES

The present investigation aimed to detect the presence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in patients with MS using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) methods.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were collected from MS patients (n = 82) and from blood donors as control group (n = 89). They were tested for the presence of CMV antibodies and DNA by ELISA and PCR, respectively.

RESULTS

Anti-CMV was positive in 65 (79.3%) and 69 (77.5%) of the MS patients and healthy subjects, respectively (P= 0.853). Similarly, 23 (28%) and 2 (2.2%) patients were positive for CMV DNA among the MS and control groups, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that the frequency of CMV DNA in the MS patients was significantly higher than in the healthy controls (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study showed a possible association between CMV infection and MS. Further experimental and epidemiological studies using case-control approaches are needed to confirm this association.

Impacts of the G145R Mutation on the Structure and Immunogenic Activity of the Hepatitis B Surface Antigen: A Computational Analysis

BACKGROUND

Vaccine-escaped hepatitis B virus (HBV) mutations occur within the "a" determinant area, which is located in the major hydrophilic region (MHR) of the hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) protein. It is now well established that the common G145R mutation is highly capable of escaping from HBsAg immune recognition. However, the impacts of this mutation on the structure and immunogenic activity of HBsAg have been poorly investigated.

OBJECTIVES

The present study analyzed the effects of the G145R mutation on the structure and immunogenic activity of the HBsAg.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Three-dimensional (3D) structure of HBsAg for both the wild-type and G145R mutant were predicted and refined using several web tools. After quantitative evaluations, the effects of the G145R mutation on the secondary and 3D structures of the HBsAg were investigated. In parallel, the immunogenic activity of the wild-type and mutant HBsAg was also analyzed using a ClusPro docking server as well as the IEDB web tool. Further analyses were performed via molecular dynamics (MD) simulations using the GROMACS v5.0.2 simulation package.

RESULTS

The G145R mutation causes a considerable reduction in the immunogenic activity of the HBsAg through a conformational change in the HBsAg antigenic loops. This mutation inserts a new β-strand in the "a" determinant region of the HBsAg, leading to a reduced binding affinity to its monoclonal antibody, MAb12. The G145R mutation also increased the compactness and stability of the HBsAg by enhancing the rigidity of the "a" determinant.

CONCLUSIONS

These data will be beneficial for designing more advanced antibodies for the recognition of the HBsAg in diagnostics. In addition, the results of this study may assist in the design or development of more effective hepatitis B vaccines.

The High Prevalence of the Varicella Zoster Virus in Patients With Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: A Case-Control Study in the North of Iran

BACKGROUND

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common neurological autoimmune disease, characterized by multifocal areas of inflammatory demyelination within the central nervous system. It has been hypothesized that the stimulation of the immune system by viral infections is the leading cause of MS among susceptible individuals.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) collected from MS patients (n = 82) and controls (n = 89) were screened for the presence of anti-VZV antibodies and VZV DNA by the ELISA and PCR methods. DNA was extracted from all samples, and VZV infection was examined by the PCR technique. Statistical analysis was used to investigate the frequency of the virus in MS patients and a healthy control group.

RESULTS

Of all the MS patients, 78 (95.1%) and 21 (25.6%) were positive for anti-VZV and VZV DNA, respectively. Statistical analysis of the PCR results showed a significant correlation between the abundance of VZV and MS disease (P < 0.001). However, there was no significant correlation between the abundance of anti-VZV antibodies and MS disease by the ELISA method.

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the hypothesis that VZV may contribute to MS in establishing a systemic infection process and inducing an immune response.

How Hepatitis C Virus Leads to Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Network-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) has been known as a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. However, the distinct molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of HCV proteins on the HCC progression have remained unclear.

OBJECTIVES

In the present study, we studied the possible role of HCV in the HCC initiation and invasion using topological analysis of protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After analysis with GEO2R, a PPI network of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was constructed for both chronic HCV and HCC samples. The STRING and GeneMANIA databases were used to determine the putative interactions between DEGs. In parallel, the functional annotation of DEGs was performed using g: Profiler web tool. The topological analysis and network visualization was carried outperformed using Cytoscape software and the top hub genes were identified. We determined the hub genes-related miRNAs using miRTarBase server and reconstructed a miRNA-Hubgene network.

RESULTS

Based on the topological analysis of miRNA-Hubgene network, we identified the key hub miRNAs. In order to identify the most important common sub-network, we aligned two PPI networks using NETAL tool. The c-Jun gene was identified as the most important hub gene in both HCV and HCC networks. Furthermore, the hsa-miR-34a, hsa-miR-155, hsa-miR-24, hsa-miR-744 and hsa-miR-92a were recognized as the most important hub miRNAs with positive correlation in the chronic HCV and HCC samples. Functional annotation of differentially expressed miRNAs (DEMs) using the tool for annotations of human miRNAs (TAM) revealed that there is a considerable overlap between miRNA gene expression profiles of HCV-infected and HCC cells.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results revealed the possible crucial genes and miRNAs involved in the initiation and progression of HCC cells infected with HCV.

Association study of interleukin-1 family and interleukin-6 gene single nucleotide polymorphisms in recurrent aphthous stomatitis

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) is a common painful, ulcerative oral inflammatory disorder with unknown aetiology. Immune system and aberrant cytokine cascade deemed to be critical in outbreaks of RAS ulcers. Interleukin-1 (IL-1) and IL-6 are the most potent pro-inflammatory cytokines. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of IL-1 and IL-6 genes can affect the secretion of these cytokines. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between RAS and IL-6 and IL-1 in Iranian subjects with minor RAS. Genomic DNA was obtained from 64 Iranian patients with RAS. IL-1α C -889 T, IL-1β C -511 T, IL-1β C +3962 T, IL-1R C pst-I 1970 T, IL-1Ra C Mspa-I11100 T, IL-6 C -174 G and IL-6 A nt +565 G polymorphisms were determined using polymerase chain reaction with sequence-specific primers (PCR-SSP). The frequency of C -174 C genotype in the patients group was significantly different from the healthy control. No other significant differences were found in genotype and alleles frequencies between the two groups. These results indicate that certain SNPs of IL-6 gene at position -174 which located in promoter have association with predisposition of individuals to RAS.

Epidermal growth factor receptor gene expression evaluation in colorectal cancer patients

Background: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common causes of death in the world and third and fourth most common cancer among men and women in Iran respectively. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a tyrosine kinase receptor that shows over expression in epithelial tumors and regulates important processes in tumorigenesis. Incidence and characteristics of colorectal cancer are based on the geographic region and race. Aim: In this research work, the over expression of EGFR in formalin fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) colorectal cancer tumor tissue of patients was studied. Materials and Methods: Fifteen FFPE colorectal cancer tumor tissues (10 women and 5 men; 25-65 years old and stage IV) and 15 non-patients (nine women and six men; 25-65 years old) that were collected during 2006-2012. EGFR gene expression level was analyzed by real-time quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR). All PCR reactions were performed in triplicate for both target gene and internal control (18s ribosomal ribonucleic acid) with the 2-ΔΔCT method. Gene expression differences in patients and controls were evaluated with t-test. Results: The results were showed EGFR gene over expression in 12 (80%) of 15 patients. There was a statistically significant difference in the prevalence of EGFR expression between patients and control (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Our results demonstrated EGFR gene over expression in colorectal cancer tumor tissue compared with controls.

A randomized and controlled comparison of the wash-resistances and insecticidal efficacies of four types of deltamethrin-treated nets, over a 6-month period of domestic use with washing every 2 weeks, in a rural area of Iran

In a randomized, prospective, 6-month-long field study in a rural area of Iran, the wash resistances of 200 nets (40 PermaNet, 40 Yorkool and 40 A-Z nets), that their manufacturers claimed be long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLIN), were compared with those of 40 nets conventionally treated with deltamethrin (using K-O Tab tablets). All the nets were kept in routine domestic use and subjected to standardized hand-washing at 2-week intervals. Wild-caught or laboratory-reared Anopheles stephensi were used for the bio-assays of insecticidal activity. The regular washing and domestic use led to reductions in the insecticidal activities of all the treated nets after 6 months. Although the PermaNet nets showed the smallest reduction, they were not significantly better than the conventionally treated nets, which still showed acceptable insecticidal activity after 6 months. The PermaNet and A-Z nets both performed significantly better than the Yorkool nets, which were slightly but not significantly worse than the conventionally treated nets. In questionnaire-based interviews, the local householders were found to wash their own (non-study) nets at median and mean frequencies of every 2 and 2.1 weeks, respectively. In conclusion, the PermaNet nets showed better wash resistance than any of the other commercial nets, and were the only commercial nets tested that truly appeared to be LLIN. There still appears to be scope, however, for the impregnation, and thus the wash-resistance, of even the PermaNet nets to be improved.

Effects of a novel hydrophilic phytostanol analog on plasma lipid concentrations in gerbils

This study was designed to determine the effects of a novel hydrophilic phytostanol analog, FM-VP4, on total plasma cholesterol, total plasma triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentrations after acute oral administration to gerbils. Gerbils were administered a standard gerbil diet for 4 continuous weeks, and daily water and food intake was monitored and replaced. The diet contained either no FM-VP4 (control) or FM-VP4 at the following concentrations: 0.25, 0.50, 1.0, or 2.0% w/w; six gerbils were fed each diet formulation. After 4 weeks of receiving a single diet formulation, blood was obtained from each gerbil by cardiac puncture and the animals were sacrificed humanely. Plasma obtained from this blood was analyzed for total cholesterol, total triglyceride, and HDL cholesterol levels by standard enzymatic and precipitation techniques. LDL cholesterol levels were calculated using the Friedewald equation. Administration of dietary FM-VP4 resulted in significant decreases in total plasma cholesterol and LDL cholesterol concentrations compared with controls. Dietary FM-VP4 at concentrations of 1% and 2% (w/w) decreased total plasma cholesterol by 3.4 mmol/L compared with controls. This decrease was entirely due to the loss of cholesterol from the LDL pool because LDL cholesterol was decreased by 3.3 and 3.2 mmol/L after 1% and 2% (w/w) FM-VP4, respectively. There were no significant changes in plasma triglyceride or HDL cholesterol concentrations after the administration of FM-VP4. Animals administered 1% or 2% (w/w) FM-VP4 also had significantly lower body weight after 4 weeks of treatment compared with the other groups. However, no unusual behavior was observed in these animals. No major differences in daily water or food intake were observed throughout the study. These findings indicate that FM-VP4 decreases total and LDL cholesterol concentrations.

Assessing plasma lipid levels, body weight, and hepatic and renal toxicity following chronic oral administration of a water soluble phytostanol compound, FM-VP4, to gerbils

The purpose of this project was to determine the effect of a FM-VP4 when incorporated into the diet or drinking water on plasma lipids, body weight, and hepatic and renal function following chronic oral administration to gerbils. Gerbils were administered water and food daily containing either no FM-VP4 (controls; n=6), 2% or 4% FM-VP4 incorporated into the gerbil diet (n=6 each treatment group) or 2% or 4% FM-VP4 dissolved in the drinking water (n=6 each treatment group). Body weight and food and water intake were monitored weekly. Following 8 weeks of this regiment blood was obtained via a cardiac puncture and all animals were sacrificed humanely. Plasma obtained from this blood was analyzed for total cholesterol, total triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol levels by standard enzymatic and precipitation techniques. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol levels were determined by the Friedewald equation. The plasma was also analyzed for changes in hepatic enzyme (aspartate aminotransferase [AST] and alanine aminotransferase [ALT]) and plasma creatinine (renal function) concentrations. 2% and 4% FM-VP4 administration incorporated both into the diet and in the drinking water resulted in a significant decrease in total plasma cholesterol and LDL cholesterol concentration compared to controls. Animals administered 4% FM-VP4 in either their diet or drinking water had significantly lower body weight following the 8 weeks of treatment compared to the other groups. Significant differences in daily water intake was observed in all treatment groups with the exception of the 2% FM-VP4 in diet group compared to controls. Significant differences in daily food intake were observed in gerbils administered 2% FM-VP4 in the drinking water and 4% FM-VP4 in the diet and drinking water groups compared to controls. A significant decrease in total plasma triglyceride concentration was observed in gerbils administered 4% FM-VP4 in their drinking water compared to controls. A significant increase in HDL cholesterol concentrations was observed in gerbils administered 2% FM-VP4 in their diet and 4% FM-VP4 in their drinking water compared to controls. No significant elevations in AST, ALT and creatinine concentrations were reported for all treatment groups compared to controls. These findings suggest that FM-VP4 significantly decrease plasma lipids and body weight with no apparent hepatic or renal toxicity.

Assessing the plasma pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution, excretion and effects on cholesterol pharmacokinetics of a novel hydrophilic compound, FM-VP4, following administration to rats

PURPOSE

The purpose of this project was to 1) assess the disposition kinetics of [3H]-cholesterol following co-administration with a novel hydrophilic compound, FM-VP4, and 2) determine the pharmacokinetics, tissue distribution and excretion of [3H]FM-VP4 following single oral (150 mg/kg which includes 100 mCi of radiolabel) and intravenous (15 mg/kg which includes 10 mCi of radiolabel) doses.

METHODS

Following an overnight fast (12-16 h) and 48 h post-surgery, adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into six treatment groups (n=4/group). Groups received single oral doses of 25 mCi/ml [3H]cholesterol alone or with 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 mg/kg FM-VP4 at 0700 h. Ten percent Intralipid was used to solubilize and co-administer [3H]-cholesterol and FM-VP4. LC-MS analysis confirmed minimal cholesterol and vegetable stanol content within 10% Intralipid. Thin layer chromatography was used to confirm that the majority of radioactivity measured in plasma was associated with either esterified or unesterified cholesterol. In a second study pharmacokinetics of [3H]FM-VP4 were studied following intravenous or orally gavaged doses (n=8). Tissues, urine and feces were also collected in FM-VP4 kinetics study to measure tissue distribution of radioactivity. Plasma [3H]-cholesterol and [3H]FM-VP4 were tested for radioactivity.

RESULTS

FM-VP4 co-administration significantly decreased [3H]-cholesterol AUC0-48h and Cmax, and increased CL/F and Vd/F of [3H]-cholesterol as compared to controls in a dose-dependent manner. Following oral administration of [3H]FM-VP4, the majority of radioactivity following was recovered in the feces and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The compound exhibited an oral bioavailability of 6.5%. Following IV administration, a two-compartment pharmacokinetic model was observed and the majority of the radioactivity was recovered in the GI tract.

CONCLUSIONS

FM-VP4 reduces plasma concentration of [3H]-cholesterol in fasting rats. [3H]FM-VP4 has a very low oral bioavailability.