Diagnostic performance of the bioline dengue duo rapid test on symptomatic patients assisted at Armed Forces Hospital (Hfa) in Brasília, Brazil

Dengue necessitates accurate diagnosis. Rapid tests such as Bioline™ DENGUE DUO have gained traction, but validation in specific populations is essential. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the Bioline™ test, alongside assessing the socio-epidemiological profile of symptomatic patients in a Brasília Military Hospital. The serum of 404 symptomatic patients was analyzed by the Bioline™ DENGUE DUO test, followed by Dengue virus detection and discrimination of the four serotypes by RT-qPCR. Accuracy was assessed using parameters including sensitivity (S), specificity (E), positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV), and positive (RV +) and negative (RV-) likelihood ratios. The NS1 component exhibited a sensitivity of 70.37%, a specificity of 97.30%, and an overall efficiency of 90.10% when compared to RT-qPCR as the gold standard. The IgM component demonstrated a sensitivity of 26.85%, a specificity of 89.53%, and an overall efficiency of 72.77% when compared to RT-qPCR as the gold standard. The IgG component demonstrated a sensitivity of 23.15%, a specificity of 68.92%, and an overall efficiency of 56.68% when compared to RT-qPCR as the gold standard. Several rapid tests are commercially available. However, considering variations across regions and demographic groups, it is important to question their accuracy in specific populations. Rapid tests are important screening tools, but they can have limitations for the certainty of diagnosis. Bioline™ DENGUE DUO displayed good specificity, but sensitivity was slightly below optimal levels. While helpful for confirming dengue, improvements are needed to effectively rule out the disease.

Detection of arboviruses in Aedes aegypti through transovarian analysis: A study in Goiânia, Goiás

BACKGROUND

Arboviral diseases are a group of infectious diseases caused by viruses transmitted by arthropods, mainly mosquitoes. These diseases, such as those caused by the dengue (DENV), Zika (ZIKV), chikungunya (CHIKV), and yellow fever (YFV) viruses, have a significant impact worldwide. In this context, entomological surveillance plays a crucial role in the control and prevention of arboviruses by providing essential information on the presence, distribution, and activity of vector mosquitoes. Based on entomological surveillance, transovarian transmission provides information regarding the maintenance and dissemination of arboviruses. The objective of this study was to detect these arboviruses in Goiânia, Goiás, and analyze the occurrence of transovarian transmission.

METHODS

Aedes aegypti eggs were collected from different regions of Goiânia and cultivated under controlled laboratory conditions until the emergence of adult mosquitoes. Adult females were grouped into pools containing their heads and thoraxes. These pools were subsequently evaluated using reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) assay.

RESULTS

A total of 157 pools (N=1570) were analyzed, with two pools testing positive for CHIKV and one pool testing positive for ZIKV, indicating that the offspring resulting from transovarian transmission are potentially infectious.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the demonstration of the vertical transmission mechanisms of CHIKV and ZIKV in A. aegypti serves as an alert to health authorities, as these diseases are still underreported, and their primary urban vector has likely acquired this capacity, contributing to the dissemination of these infections.

Advancing Chikungunya Diagnosis: A Cost-Effective and Rapid Visual employing Loop-mediated isothermal reaction

The diagnosis of Chikungunya (CHIKV), along with the simultaneous monitoring of virus circulation in the population or vectors, is essential for global health. Although effective diagnostic methods for CHIKV, such as RT-qPCR, exist, their utilization is constrained by high costs. With the aim of contributing to the field of diagnostics, we have developed a diagnostic assay using isothermal amplification technology with visually interpretable results. This test can detect the virus within a maximum timeframe of 30 minutes. The detection limit of RT-LAMP CHIKV was found to be 66 copies of RNA molecules (Ct ≅ 31.28), and no cross-reactivity with other arboviruses was observed. During test validation, our assay demonstrated a sensitivity of 80.43%, specificity of 100%, and an overall accuracy of 88.89%. By utilizing more cost-effective reagents and equipment compared to RT-qPCR, this test holds the potential for broader application and enhanced accessibility, particularly in point-of-care settings.

The presence of antibiotics and multidrug-resistant Staphylococcus aureus reservoir in a low-order stream spring in central Brazil

The disposal of industrial effluents strongly influences low-order streams, which makes them fragile ecosystems that can be impacted by contamination. In central Brazil, the Extrema River spring targets the dumping of pharmaceutical products from the surrounding industries. So, this work aimed to investigate the presence of antibiotics in Extrema River spring samples and the isolation of Staphylococcus aureus, a potential multidrug-resistant bacteria, verifying the antimicrobial resistance profile of these isolates. Three campaigns were carried out in different locals (P1-P3) between October and December 2021, in the dry and rainy seasons. The high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LCMS) approach indicated the presence of sulfamethoxazole (≥ 1 ng/L), metronidazole (< 0.5 ng/L), and chloramphenicol (< 5 ng/L) in the water samples in November (rainy season). S. aureus was isolated in P1 (n = 128), P2 (n = 168), and P3 (n = 36), with greater resistance to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (90%), clindamycin (70%), and gentamicin (60%). The presence of antibiotics in the Extrema River spring may cause S. aureus antibiotic resistance development. The presence of antibiotics and the high percentage of isolated multidrug-resistant S. aureus in the Extrema River spring cause concern and indicate the clandestine dumping of effluents from nearby pharmaceutical industries. Since preserving the springs of low-order streams is important for the environment and public health, we encourage monitoring the wastewater from Extrema River's nearby pharmaceutical industries and preserving the spring of this river.

Report of natural Mayaro virus infection in Mansonia humeralis (Dyar & Knab, Diptera: Culicidae)

BACKGROUND

Arboviruses are a group of viruses transmitted to vertebrate hosts by certain blood-feeding arthropods. Among urban vectors of arboviruses, mosquitoes of the genus Aedes are the most common. However, other mosquitoes may be susceptible to infection and involved in the transmission, such as Mansonia spp. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether Mansonia humeralis can be infected with the Mayaro virus (MAYV).

METHODS

These insects were collected from 2018 to 2020 in chicken coops of rural communities in Jaci Paraná in Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil, while performing blood-feeding on roosters. The mosquitoes were randomly grouped in pools from which the head and thorax were macerated and checked for the presence of MAYV by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). The positive pools were used to infect the C6/36 cell line, and on different days post-infection, the supernatant of the infected cells was subjected to viral detection by RT-qPCR.

RESULTS

A total of 183 pools of female mosquitoes were tested, of which 18% were positive for MAYV; some samples from insect pools inoculated into C6/36 cells showed in vitro multiplication capacity between 3 and 7 days post-infection.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report of Ma. humeralis mosquitoes that are naturally infected by MAYV, indicating that these vectors may be potential transmitting agents of this arbovirus.

Detecting lineage-defining mutations in SARS-CoV-2 using colorimetric RT-LAMP without probes or additional primers

Despite the advance of vaccination worldwide, epidemic waves caused by more transmissible and immune evasive genetic variants of SARS-CoV-2 have sustained the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19. Monitoring such variants is expensive, as it usually relies on whole-genome sequencing methods. Therefore, it is necessary to develop alternatives that could help identify samples from specific variants. Reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification is a method that has been increasingly used for nucleic acid amplification, as it is cheaper and easier to perform when compared to other molecular techniques. As a proof of concept that can help distinguish variants, we present an RT-LAMP assay capable of detecting samples carrying a group of mutations that can be related to specific SARS-CoV-2 lineages, here demonstrated for the Variant of Concern Gamma. We tested 60 SARS-CoV-2 RNA samples extracted from swab samples and the reaction showed a sensitivity of 93.33%, a specificity of 88.89% and a kappa value of 0.822 for samples with a Ct ≤ 22.93. The RT-LAMP assay demonstrated to be useful to distinguish VOC Gamma and may be of particular interest as a screening approach for variants in countries with poor sequencing coverage.

Fast, low-cost and highly specific colorimetric RT-LAMP assays for inference of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 lineages

The RT-LAMP assays can quickly and cheaply infer and distinguish colorimetrically two lineages (BA.1 and BA.2) of the Omicron variant, enabling the rationalization of genetic sequencing.

Anti-angiogenic activity of azathioprine

Azathioprine (AZA) is the main drug used in immunomodulatory therapy in post-transplant patients or with autoimmune diseases. However, no study has evaluated the AZA angiogenic response. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of AZA on the angiogenic process through macroscopic, histological, and immunohistochemical analyses in chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Our results showed potent anti-angiogenic activity of AZA at the higher concentrations tested in the CAM assay. The histological analysis of CAM confirmed this effect, since AZA induced a significant reduction in all parameters evaluated. In addition, immunohistochemical evaluation of CAM revealed that AZA decreased TGF-β and VEGF levels, important cytokines involved in the angiogenic process. Therefore, the AZA anti-angiogenic effect identified in our study provides new information for the possible application of this drug in anticancer treatment.

Can a field molecular diagnosis be accurate? A performance evaluation of colorimetric RT-LAMP for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in a hospital setting

SARS-CoV-2 currently represents a serious global public health problem. Non-pharmaceutical intervention measures (NPIs) have been widely adopted, and the testing strategy since the beginning of the infection is the most effective tool for tracking, isolating, and minimizing transmission. The high operating costs and the need for sophisticated instrumentation related to gold standard diagnostic for COVID-19, Reverse Transcription quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-qPCR), have highlighted the urgency and importance of developing and applying new diagnostic techniques, especially in places with scarce resources. Thus, alternative molecular tests, such as Reverse Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (RT-LAMP), based on isothermal amplification have been used to detect SARS-CoV-2 using different protocols. The potential for field application of RT-LAMP is due to the lower cost and time and not requiring high-cost instrumentation. Here, we evaluate the colorimetric RT-LAMP to detect SARS-CoV-2 in a hospital environment and correlate its performance with tests performed in a reference laboratory. The analysis performed at the hospital showed high sensitivity (88.89%), specificity (98.55%), accuracy (95.83%), and a Cohen's kappa of 0.895. However, we achieved 100% of agreement when comparing the RT-LAMP results with the gold standard (qRT-PCR) results for samples with Ct < 30 in the hospital-based test. In addition, a similar performance was found in the field compared to the reference laboratory, corroborating the proposal to apply the test directly at point-of-care.

Rapid molecular diagnostics of COVID-19 by RT-LAMP in a centrifugal polystyrene-toner based microdevice with end-point visual detection

Infection caused by the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has become a serious worldwide public health problem, and one of the most important strategies for its control is mass testing. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has emerged as an important alternative to simplify the diagnostics of infectious diseases. In addition, an advantage of LAMP is that it allows for easy reading of the final result through visual detection. However, this step must be performed with caution to avoid contamination and false-positive results. LAMP performed on microfluidic platforms can minimize false-positive results, in addition to having potential for point-of-care applications. Here, we describe a polystyrene-toner (PS-T) centrifugal microfluidic device manually controlled by a fidget spinner for molecular diagnosis of COVID-19 by RT-LAMP, with integrated and automated colorimetric detection. The amplification was carried out in a microchamber with 5 μL capacity, and the reaction was thermally controlled with a thermoblock at 72 °C for 10 min. At the end of the incubation time, the detection of amplified RT-LAMP fragments was performed directly on the chip by automated visual detection. Our results demonstrate that it is possible to detect COVID-19 in reactions initiated with approximately 10^-3 copies of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Clinical samples were tested using our RT-LAMP protocol as well as by conventional RT-qPCR, demonstrating comparable performance to the CDC SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR assay. The methodology described in this study represents a simple, rapid, and accurate method for rapid molecular diagnostics of COVID-19 in a disposable microdevice, ideal for point-of-care testing (POCT) systems.

B-Mode and Doppler Ultrasonography in a Murine Model of Ehrlich Solid Carcinoma With Different Growth Patterns

Ehrlich solid carcinoma (ESC) is one of the tumor models used in cancer research. Although it is widely used, it has no ultrasonographic descriptions. In this study, serial B-mode and Doppler ultrasonographic examinations were performed for 23 days for ESCs inoculated into 18 Swiss albino mice. The growth patterns were analyzed, and on the basis of their growth curve, the tumors were classified into two groups: fast growth (FG) and slow growth (SG). Ultrasonographic characteristics of the tumor’s capsule, margins, echogenicity, echotexture, vascular index (VI), distribution of vascular flow, and Doppler indices such as the resistive index, pulsatility index, and peak systolic velocity (SV) were analyzed and compared between the two groups. A high VI and earlier blood flow were noted in the FG group (p<0.05). Additionally, SV was higher in the FG group than in the SG group (13.28 ± 0.38 cm/s vs. 8.43 ± 0.26 cm/s). In contrast, a change in echogenicity and flow distribution patterns were observed, especially in FG tumors. Therefore, ESC presented with few ultrasonographic differences between FG and SG tumors, especially vascularization during the initial stages of tumor growth.

Ruthenium(II)/Benzonitrile Complex Induces Cytotoxic Effect in Sarcoma-180 Cells by Caspase-Mediated and Tp53/p21-Mediated Apoptosis, with Moderate Brine Shrimp Toxicity

Ruthenium(II)/benzonitrile complexes have demonstrated promising anticancer properties. Considering that there are no specific therapies for treating sarcoma, we decided to evaluate the cytotoxic, genotoxic, and lethal effects of cis-[RuCl(BzCN)(phen)(dppb)]PF₆ (BzCN = benzonitrile; phen = 1,10-phenanthroline; dppb = 1,4-bis-(diphenylphosphino)butane), as well as the mechanism of cell death induction that occurs against murine sarcoma-180 tumor. Thus, MTT assay was applied to assess the ruthenium cytotoxicity, showing that the compound is a more potent inhibitor for the sarcoma-180 tumor cell viability than normal cells (lymphocytes). The comet assay indicated low genotoxic for normal cells. cis-[RuCl(BzCN)(phen)(dppb)]PF₆ also showed moderate lethality in Artemia salina. The complex induced cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase in sarcoma-180 cells. In addition, the complex caused S180 cells to die by apoptosis by an increase in Annexin-V-positive cells and morphological changes typical of apoptotic cells. Additionally, cis-[RuCl(BzCN)(phen)(dppb)]PF₆ increased the gene expression of Bax, Casp3, and Tp53 in S180 cells. By using a western blot, we observed an increased protein level of TNF-R2, Bax, and p21. In conclusion, cis-[RuCl(BzCN)(phen)(dppb)]PF₆ is active and selective for sarcoma-180 cells, leading to cell cycle arrest at the G0/G1 and cell death through a caspases-mediated and Tp53/p21-mediated pathway.

Ru(II)-Based Amino Acid Complexes Show Promise for Leukemia Treatment: Cytotoxicity and Some Light on their Mechanism of Action

Ruthenium is attracting considerable interest as the basis for new compounds to treat diseases, and studies have shown that complexes with different structures have significant antineoplastic and antimetastatic potential against several types of tumors, including tumors resistant to cisplatin drugs. We examined the cytotoxic, genotoxic, and pro-apoptotic activities of six ruthenium complexes containing amino acid with general formulation [Ru(AA)(bipy)(dppb)]PF₆, where AA = amino acid (alanine, glycine, leucine, lysine, methionine, or tryptophan); bipy = 2,2´-bipyridine; and dppb = [1,4-bis(diphenylphosphine)butane], against A549 (lung carcinoma) and K562 (chronic myelogenous leukemia) cancer cells. The results show that the ruthenium complexes tested were able to induce cytotoxicity in A549 and K562 cancer cells. Complex 1 containing alanine inhibited the cell viability of A549 and K562 tumor cells by inducing apoptosis, as evidenced by an increased number of Annexin V-positive cells and the induction of DNA damage and cell cycle arrest. Complex 1 was able to induce caspase-mediated apoptosis in K562 cells through the mitochondrial dysfunction, the upregulation of apoptotic genes, and the downregulation of Bcl2 anti-apoptotic gene. Besides being cytotoxic to K562 and A549 cells, ruthenium complex containing alanine shows low cytotoxicity and genotoxicity against non-tumor cells. These results suggest that the ruthenium (II) complex is a potential safe and efficient antineoplastic candidate for leukemia treatment.

Heterobimetallic Ru(ii)/Fe(ii) complexes as potent anticancer agents against breast cancer cells, inducing apoptosis through multiple targets

Antimetastatic activity, high selectivity and cytotoxicity for human tumor cell lines make ruthenium(ii) complexes attractive for the development of new chemotherapeutic agents for cancer treatment. In this study, cytotoxic activities and the possible mechanism of cell death induced by three ruthenium complexes were evaluated, [Ru(MIm)(bipy)(dppf)]PF₆ (1), [RuCl(Im)(bipy)(dppf)]PF₆ (2) and [Ru(tzdt)(bipy)(dppf)]PF₆ (3). The results showed high cytotoxicity and selectivity indexes for the human triple-negative breast tumor cell line (MDA-MB-231) with IC₅₀ value and selectivity index for complex 1 (IC₅₀ = 0.33 ± 0.03 μM, SI = 4.48), complex 2 (IC₅₀ = 0.80 ± 0.06 μM, SI = 2.31) and complex 3 (IC₅₀ = 0.48 ± 0.02 μM, SI = 3.87). The mechanism of cell death induced in MDA-MB-231 cells, after treatment with complexes 1-3, indicated apoptosis of the cells as a consequence of the increase in the percentage of cells in the Sub-G1 phase in the cell cycle analysis, characteristic morphological changes and the presence of apoptotic cells labeled with Annexin-V. Multiple targets of action were identified for complexes 1 and 3 with an induction of DNA damage in cells treated with complexes 1 and 3, mitochondrial depolarization with a reduction in mitochondrial membrane potential, an increase in reactive oxygen species levels and increased expression levels of caspase 3 and p53. In addition, antimetastatic activities for complexes 1 and 3 were observed by inhibition of cell migration by the wound healing assay and Boyden chamber assay, as well as inhibition of angiogenesis caused by MDA-MB-231 tumor cells in the CAM model.

Epidemiology of hepatitis B virus infection in people living in poverty in the central-west region of Brazil

Background

People living in poverty (PLP) are highly vulnerable to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology of HBV infection in PLP in the metropolitan region of Goiânia, Goiás State, in the Central-West Region of Brazil.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to December 2016 in adults aged ≥12 years living in poverty. The following serological markers for HBV were investigated: hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), antibody to HBV core antigen (total anti-HBc), IgM anti-HBc, and hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs), which were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Poisson regression analysis with robust variance was performed to verify the factors associated with HBV exposure.

Results

The study included 378 participants. The overall prevalence rate of HBV (any viral marker) was 9.8% (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.2–13.2). The prevalence rate of HBsAg in combination with total anti-HBc was 0.8% (95% CI, 0.3–2.4), total anti-HBc in combination with anti-HBs was 7.7% (95% CI, 5.4–10.9), and total anti-HBc alone was 1.3% (95% CI, 0.5–3.0) in the population. Furthermore, isolated positivity for anti-HBs was identified in only 25.4% (95% CI, 21.3–30.0) of the participants. Multiple regression analysis revealed that age (adjusted prevalence ratio [APR], 1.04; 95% CI, 1.01–1.07), female sex (APR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.01–4.73), sexual intercourse under the influence of alcohol (APR, 2.49; 95% CI, 1.36–7.06), and exposure to Treponema pallidum (APR, 3.10; 95% CI, 1.36–7.06) were associated with HBV exposure.

Conclusion

There was a high prevalence of HBV exposure in PLP in the Central-West Region of Brazil, indicating significant viral spread of the infection. Additionally, there was low serological evidence of immunisation against hepatitis B, indicating that a large proportion of the participants in this study are susceptible to the infection. The results support the need for public health policies that facilitate access to the existing healthcare services in hard-to-reach groups with special regard to immunisation programmes against hepatitis B.

Optical properties and antiangiogenic activity of a chalcone derivate

Chalcones and their derivatives exhibit numerous pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory. Recently, they have been assessed aiming for novel application in nonlinear optics and in the treatment of immune diseases and cancers. In this study, we investigate the optical properties of synthetic chalcona 1E,4E-1-(4-chlorophenyl)-5-(2,6,6-trimethylcyclohexen-1-yl)penta-1,4-dien-3-one (CAB7β) and its antiangiogenic potential using the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) with the S180 sarcoma cell line. Experimental and theoretical results show intense absorption in the UVA-UVC region, which is associated with a π → π* transition with intramolecular charge transfer from the trimethyl-cyclohexen-1-yl ring to the chlorophenyl ring. Quantum chemical calculations of the first hyperpolarizability, accounting for both solvent and frequency dispersion effects, are in very good concordance with hyper-Rayleigh scattering measurements. In addition, two-photon absorption allowed band centered at 650 nm was observed. Concerning antiangiogenic activity, CAB7β causes a significant reduction in the total number, junctions, length and caliber of blood vessels stimulated by S180 cells reducing the presence of blood vessels, inflammatory cells and others elements related to angiogenic process. It is found that CAB7β is a versatile compound and a promising candidate for linear and nonlinear optical applications, in therapy against sarcoma and phototherapy.

Acute toxic effects of ruthenium (II)/amino acid/diphosphine complexes on Swiss mice and zebrafish embryos

Anticancer potential of ruthenium complexes has been widely investigated, but safety evaluation studies are still scarce. Despite of ruthenium-based anticancer agents are known to cause fewer side effects compared to other metal-based drugs, these compounds are not fully free of toxicity, causing mainly nephrotoxicity. Based on the promising results from antitumor activity of the complexes [Ru(L-Met)(bipy)(dppb)]PF₆ (RuMet) and [Ru(L-Trp)(bipy)(dppb)]PF₆ (RuTrp), for the first time we investigated the toxicity profile of these complexes in rodent and zebrafish models. The acute oral toxicity was evaluated in Swiss mice. The mutagenic and genotoxic potential was determined by a combination of Micronucleus (MN) and Comet assay protocols, after exposure of Swiss mice to RuMet and RuTrp in therapeutic doses. Zebrafish embryos were exposed to these complexes, and their development observed up to 96 h post-fertilization. RuMet and RuTrp complexes showed low acute oral toxicity. Recorded behavioral changes were not recorded, nor were macroscopic morphological changes or structural modifications in the liver and kidneys. These complexes did not cause genetic toxicity, presenting a lack of micronuclei formation and low DNA damage induction in the cells from Swiss mice. In contradiction, cisplatin treatment exhibited high mutagenicity and genotoxicity. RuMet and RuTrp showed low toxicity in the embryo development of zebrafish. The RuMet and RuTrp complexes demonstrated low toxicity in the two study models, an interesting property in preclinical studies for novel anticancer agents.

Identification of deletions and duplications in the CYP2E1 gene in a population in Goiânia – GO by MLPA

Human CYPs are important in physiology, drug metabolism, and pathogenesis of certain diseases, and there is a strong need to explore the genetic variations and regulatory mechanisms of these enzymes. Mutations in CYP genes leading to deficiency in the enzymes result in a wide spectrum of human diseases. The aim of the present study was to investigate, the importance of CYP2E1 genetic polymorphisms in the health population in Goiânia. The study was performed acording approved by the ethics committee of Federal University of Goias (approval CEP: 895.552). In the current survey, 100 patients (35M/65F) of both genders and aged 18-90 (M: 30.2) years old were enrolled after receiving their informed consent. The Multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) was performed using the P128 CYP450 MLPA kit (Version C1; MRC-Holland, Amsterdam, The Netherlands) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This gene is located on chromossome 10 and has 9 exons, but only 3 (5, 6 and 8) were analyzed. In the exon 5 was found (2 duplications and 3 deletions), exon 6 (2 duplications and 2 deletions) and the exon 8 (3 duplications and 2 deletions). This gene is the second responsible for the metabolism of alcohol in the body, after the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase and therefore the importance of checking what these deletions and duplications can cause in the body. Is the first time this methodology is used, and we believe it is a great tool for future studies with other genes.

The Single Nucleotide Polymorphism PPARG2 Pro12Ala Affects Body Mass Index, Fat Mass, and Blood Pressure in Severely Obese Patients

BACKGROUND

The PPARG2 Pro12Ala (rs1801282) and IL6 -174G >C (rs1800795) have important function in body weight regulation and a potential role in obesity risk. We aimed to investigate the association between PPARG2 Pro12Ala and IL6 -174G >C variants and the genotypes interaction with body composition, metabolic markers, food consumption, and physical activity in severely obese patients.

METHODS

150 severely obese patients (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 35 kg/m²) from Central Brazil were recruited. Body composition, metabolic parameters, physical activity, and dietary intake were measured. The genotype was determined by the qPCR TaqMan Assays System. Multiple linear regression and multiple logistic regression models were fitted adjusting for confounders.

RESULTS

Ala carriers of the Pro12Ala polymorphism had higher adiposity measures (BMI: p=0.031, and fat mass: p=0.049) and systolic blood pressure (p=0.026) compared to Pro homozygotes. We found no important associations between the -174G >C polymorphism and obesity phenotypes. When genotypes were combined, individuals with genotypes ProAla + AlaAla and GC + CC presented higher BMI (p=0.029) and higher polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) consumption (p=0.045) compared to the ones with genotypes ProPro and GG, and individuals carriers of the PPARG2 Ala allele only (genotype ProAla + AlaAla and GG) had higher fat mass and systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to the ones with genotypes ProPro and GG.

CONCLUSIONS

Severely obese individuals carrying the Ala allele of the PPARG2 Pro12Ala polymorphism had higher measures of adiposity and blood pressure, while no important associations were found for the IL6 -174G >C polymorphism.

cis-[RuCl(BzCN)(bipy)(dppe)]PF6 induces anti-angiogenesis and apoptosis by a mechanism of caspase-dependent involving DNA damage, PARP activation, and Tp53 induction in Ehrlich tumor cells

Antimetastatic activities, low toxicity to normal cells and high selectivity for tumor cells make of the ruthenium complexes promising candidates in the search for develop new chemotherapeutic agents for the treatment of cancer. This study aimed to determine the cytotoxic, genotoxic and to elucidate the signaling pathway involved in the death cell process induced by cis-[RuCl(BzCN)(bipy)(dppb)]PF₆(1) and cis-[RuCl(BzCN)(bipy)(dppe)]PF₆(2) in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) in vitro. Moreover, we report for the first time the anti-angiogenic potential on chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were isolated from healthy controls with an age range of 20-30 years and used to calculate the selectivity index (SI). The complex 2 (IC₅₀ = 8.5 ± 0.4/SI = 6.3) showed high cytotoxic and selectivity index against EAC cells than complex 1 (IC₅₀ = 14.9 ± 0.2/SI = 0.2) using the MTT assay. Complex 2 induced DNA damage on Ehrlich tumor cells at concentrations and time periods evalueted. In consequence, it was observed an increase of Tp53 gene expression, G0/G1-arrest cells, and increased levels of cleaved PARP protein. Beside that, the treatment of EAC with complex 2 led to an increase in Annexin V-positive cells and apoptosis induction by Caspase-7. Additionally, the complex 2 inhibited the angiogenesis caused by Ehrlich tumor cells in CAM model. This complex is active and selective for Ehrlich tumor cells, inducing DNA damage, cell cycle arrest and cell death by caspase-dependent apoptosis involving PARP activation (PARP1), and Tp53 induction.

Neutron activation increases activity of ruthenium-based complexes and induces cell death in glioma cells independent of p53 tumor suppressor gene

Novel metal complexes have received great attention in the last decades due to their potential anticancer activity. Notably, ruthenium-based complexes have emerged as good alternative to the currently used platinum-based drugs for cancer therapy, providing less toxicity and side effects to patients. Glioblastoma is an aggressive and invasive type of brain tumor and despite of advances is the field of neurooncology there is no effective treatment until now. Therefore, we sought to investigate the potential antiproliferative activity of phosphine-ruthenium-based complexes on human glioblastoma cell lines. Due to its octahedral structure as opposed to the square-planar geometry of platinum(II) compounds, ruthenium(II) complexes exhibit different structure-function relationship probably acting through a different mechanism from that of cisplatin beyond their ability to bind DNA. To better improve the pharmacological activity of metal complexes we hypothesized that neutron activation of ruthenium in the complexes would allow to decrease the effective concentration of the compound needed to kill tumor cells. Herein we report on the effect of unmodified and neutron activated phosphine ruthenium II complexes on glioblastoma cell lines carrying wild-type and mutated p53 tumor suppressor gene. Induction of apoptosis/authophagy as well as generation of reactive oxygen species were determined. The phosphine ruthenium II complexes tested were highly active against glioblastoma cell lines inducing cell death both through apoptosis and autophagy in a p53 independent fashion. Neutron activation of ruthenium compounds rendered them more active than their original counterparts suggesting a new strategy to improve the antitumor activity of these compounds.

MDR1 and cytochrome P450 gene-expression profiles as markers of chemosensitivity in human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells treated with cisplatin and Ru(III) metallocomplexes

Leukemia is a major type of cancer affecting a significant segment of the population, and especially children. In fact, leukemia is the most frequent childhood cancer, with 26 % of all cases, and 20 % mortality. The multidrug resistance phenotype (MDR) is considered one of the major causes of failure in cancer chemotherapy. The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between the expression of MDR1 and CYP450 genes in human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells (K-562) treated with cisplatin (cisPt) and two ruthenium-based coordinated complexes [cisCRu(III) and cisDRu(III)]. The tested compounds induced apoptosis in K-562 tumor cells as evidenced by caspase 3 activation. Results also revealed that the amplification of P-gp gene is greater in K-562 cells exposed to cisPt and cisCRu(III) than cisDRu(III). Taken together, all these results strongly demonstrate that MDR-1 overexpression in K-562 cells could be associated to a MDR phenotype, and moreover, it is also contributing to the platinum and structurally related compound, resistance in these cells.

[Genetic counseling for individuals with hemoglobin disorders and for their relatives: a systematic literature review]

OBJECTIVE

To identify genetic counseling programs that do not encourage therapeutic abortion for individuals with hemoglobin disorders and/or for their relatives.

METHOD

Systematic literature review of articles published from 2001 to 2012 that are located in the PubMed, LILACS, SciELO and SCOPUS databases using keywords in Portuguese, English and Spanish and that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria described on a standardized form.

RESULTS

A total of 409 articles were located, but only eight (1.9%) were selected for analysis.

CONCLUSION

Although seldom mentioned in the literature, educational/preventive programs targeting hemoglobinopathies are feasible and allow the affected individuals to acquire knowledge on the consequences of this condition and their odds of transmitting it.

Cytoxicity and apoptotic mechanism of ruthenium(II) amino acid complexes in sarcoma-180 tumor cells

Over the past several decades, much attention has been focused on ruthenium complexes in antitumor therapy. Ruthenium is a transition metal that possesses several advantages for rational antitumor drug design and biological applications. In the present study, five ruthenium complexes containing amino acids were studied in vitro to determine their biological activity against sarcoma-180 tumor cells. The cytotoxicity of the complexes was evaluated by an MTT assay, and their mechanism of action was investigated. The results demonstrated that the five complexes inhibited the growth of the S180 tumor cell line, with IC50 values ranging from 22.53 µM to 50.18 µM, and showed low cytotoxicity against normal L929 fibroblast cells. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that the [Ru(gly)(bipy)(dppb)]PF6 complex (2) inhibited the growth of the tumor cells by inducing apoptosis, as evidenced by an increased number of Annexin V-positive cells and G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest. Further investigation showed that complex 2 caused a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential; activated caspases 3, caspase-8, and caspase-9 and caused a change in the mRNA expression levels of caspase 3, caspase-9 as well as the bax genes. The levels of the pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family protein Bak were increased. Thus, we demonstrated that ruthenium amino acid complexes are promising drugs against S180 tumor cells, and we recommend further investigations of their role as chemotherapeutic agents for sarcomas.

Cytotoxic effects of the compound cis-tetraammine(oxalato)ruthenium(III) dithionate on K-562 human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells

Chemotherapy is a common treatment for leukemia. Ruthenium complexes have shown potential utility in chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy. The identification of new chemotherapeutics agents is critical for further progress in the treatment of leukemia. Ruthenium complexes generally have lower toxicities compared to cisplatin attributed to their specific accumulation in cancer tissues. Based on these evidences, in the present work we studied the cytotoxic activity of the ruthenium(III) compound cis-tetraammine(oxalato)ruthenium(III) dithionate - {cis-[Ru(C2O4)(NH3)4]2(S2O6)} against human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells (K-562) tumor cell line. The tested compound induces cell death in a dose and time dependent manner on K-562 cells. It is found that the effect was improved linearly while prolonging the incubation time. Compared to the cell cycle profiles of untreated cells, flow cytometric analysis indicated the sub-G1 arresting effect of ruthenium compound on K-562 cells. In our study, {cis-[Ru(C2O4)(NH3)4]2(S2O6)} shows a significant increase in tailed cells in any of the concentrations tested compared with negative control. Consequently, the concentration of {cis-[Ru(C2O4)(NH3)4]2(S2O6)} might be associated cytotoxicity with direct effect on K-562 cells DNA. Thus, it can be deducted that ruthenium-based compounds present selectivity to enter both tumor and normal cells. Additional studies are needed to determine the molecular mechanisms of the active components and to evaluate the potential in vivo anticancer activity of the cis-tetraammine(oxalato)ruthenium(III) dithionate.

Highly cytotoxic DNA-interacting copper(ii) coordination compounds

Copper complexes from Schiff-base ligands show high cytotoxicity against diverse cancer cell lines, with IC₅₀ values down to 0.23 μM.

Induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by ruthenium complex cis-(dichloro)tetramineruthenium(III) chloride in human lung carcinoma cells A549

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world, and non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) accounts for approximately 75-85% of all lung cancers. In the present work, we studied the cytotoxic activity, cell cycle arrest and induction apoptosis of the compound cis-(dichloro)tetramineruthenium(III) chloride {cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl} in human lung carcinoma tumor cell line A549. The results of MTT and trypan blue assays showed that cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl causes reduction in the viability of A549 cells when treating with 95 and 383 μM of the compound for 48 and 72 h. Lower concentrations of the compound (19, 3.8 and 0.38 μM), however, only slightly affected cell viability. The IC(50) value for the compound was about 383 μM. Survival analysis of the A549 cells after treatment with ruthenium(III) compound using long term clonogenic assay showed that it reduced colony formation ability at concentrations of 0.38 and 3.8 μM, and at concentrations of 95 and 383 μM no colonies were observed. Cell cycle analysis showed that compound ruthenium led to an accumulation of A549 cells in S phase and increased in the sub-G1 peak. In addition, cis-(dichloro)tetramineruthenium(III) chloride treatment induced apoptosis, as observed by the increased numbers of annexin V-positive cells and increased messenger RNA expression of caspase-3.

A model of genetic guidance for hemoglobinopathy patients and laboratory diagnosis of family members as educational and preventive measures

BACKGROUND

The high frequency of hemoglobinopathies in Brazil constitutes a public health problem and thus educational and preventive measures are necessary to reduce the incidence. Genetic guidance, a modality of genetic counseling, and family screening are measures that can assist in reproductive decisions and mitigate clinical, psychological and social problems of families with these disorders.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effectiveness of educational and preventive measures for hemoglobinopathies using genetic guidance and laboratory screening of families.

METHODS

The diagnoses of patients with hemoglobinopathies were confirmed and then the level of knowledge about their disease was evaluated and genetic guidance was provided. Three months later, the level of assimilated information of these patients was evaluated. In addition, laboratory diagnosis of family members was carried out.

RESULTS

Diagnosis of sickle cell anemia was confirmed for most patients. Moreover, the majority of the patients who had a low level of knowledge before genetic guidance (68.8%) demonstrated a higher level of assimilated information after the process (81.8%). Almost 70% of the family members had hemoglobin changes and some had hemoglobinopathies(2.6%). They were duly informed about the results of the examinations, which made it possible to investigate further.

CONCLUSION

Genetic guidance and family screening were effective preventive and educational measures that improved the quality of life of patients, preventing complications and sequels and allowed the referral of those who may transmit altered genes for clinical diagnosis and to genetic counseling services.

The ruthenium complex cis-(dichloro)tetraammineruthenium(III) chloride presents selective cytotoxicity against murine B cell lymphoma (A-20), murine ascitic sarcoma 180 (S-180), human breast adenocarcinoma (SK-BR-3), and human T cell leukemia (Jurkat) tumor cell lines

The aim of present study was to verify the in vitro antitumor activity of a ruthenium complex, cis-(dichloro)tetraammineruthenium(III) chloride (cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl) toward different tumor cell lines. The antitumor studies showed that ruthenium(III) complex presents a relevant cytotoxic activity against murine B cell lymphoma (A-20), murine ascitic sarcoma 180 (S-180), human breast adenocarcinoma (SK-BR-3), and human T cell leukemia (Jurkat) cell lines and a very low cytotoxicity toward human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. The ruthenium(III) complex decreased the fraction of tumor cells in G0/G1 and/or G2-M phases, indicating that this compound may act on resting/early entering G0/G1 cells and/or precycling G2-M cells. The cytotoxic activity of a high concentration (2 mg mL(-1)) of cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl toward Jurkat cells correlated with an increased number of annexin V-positive cells and also the presence of DNA fragmentation, suggesting that this compound induces apoptosis in tumor cells. The development of new antineoplastic medications demands adequate knowledge in order to avoid inefficient or toxic treatments. Thus, a mechanistic understanding of how metal complexes achieve their activities is crucial to their clinical success and to the rational design of new compounds with improved potency.

The ruthenium complex cis-(Dichloro)Tetraammineruthenium(III) chloride presents immune stimulatory activity on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Ruthenium compounds in general are well suited for medicinal applications. They have been investigated as immunosuppressants, nitric oxide scavengers, antimicrobial agents, and antimalarials. The aim of this study is to evaluate the immunomodulatory activity of cis-(dichloro)tetraammineruthenium(III) chloride (cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl) on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The cytotoxic studies performed here revealed that the ruthenium(III) complex presents a cytotoxic activity towards normal human PBMC, only at very high concentration. Results also showed that cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl presents a dual role on PBMC stimulating proliferation and interleukin-2 (IL-2) production at low concentration and inducing cytotoxicity, inability to proliferate, and inhibiting IL-2 production at high concentration. The noncytotoxic activity of cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl at low concentration towards PBMC, which correlates with the small number of annexin V positive cells and also the absence of DNA fragmentation, suggest that this compound does not induce apoptosis on PBMC. For the first time, we show that, at low concentration (10-100 microg L(-1)), the cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl compound induces peripheral blood lymphocytes proliferation and also stimulates them to IL-2 production. These results open a new potential applicability of ruthenium(III) complexes as a possible immune regulatory compound acting as immune suppressor at high concentration and as immune stimulator at low concentration.

Mutagenic and genotoxic effects of cis-(dichloro)tetraammineruthenium(III) chloride on human peripheral blood lymphocytes

Chemotherapeutic agents play an important role in cancer treatment mostly due their systemic action on human organism allowing access to liquid tumors and even metastases. Among these drugs, ruthenium compounds have been showing promising results to treat tumors and represent an important development of new antitumor therapy. This study presents the evaluation of cis-(dichloro)tetraammineruthenium(III) chloride, cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl, genotoxic effects using human peripheral blood lymphocytes cultured in vitro. Mitotic index (MI), chromosome aberrations (CA), and DNA damage using the comet assay were analyzed. MI in human peripheral blood lymphocyte cultures treated with 1, 10, 100, and 1,000 microg mL(-1) cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl were 5.9%, 4.6%, 3.9%, and 0%, respectively. Doxorubicin chloridate was used as the positive control. CA derived from 1, 10, and 100 microg mL(-1) concentrations were defined as spontaneous when compared with the negative control, and at the concentration of 1,000 microg mL(-1), the cell cycle was inhibited (IM = 0%). Results obtained for the comet assay using cis-[RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)]Cl suggest that this compound has no genotoxic activity against cultured human peripheral blood lymphocytes.

Cytotoxic and genotoxic effects of cis-tetraammine(oxalato)ruthenium(III) dithionate on the root meristem cells of Allium cepa

Ruthenium complexes have attracted much attention as possible building blocks for new transition-metal-based antitumor agents. The present study examines the mitotoxic and clastogenic effects induced in the root tips of Allium cepa by cis-tetraammine(oxalato)ruthenium(III) dithionate {cis-[Ru(C(2)O(2))(NH(3))(4)](2)(S(2)O(6))} at different exposure durations and concentrations. Correlation tests were performed to determine the effects of the time of exposure and concentration of ruthenium complex on mitotic index (MI) and mitotic aberration index. A comparison of MI results of cis-[Ru(C(2)O(2))(NH(3))(4)](2)(S(2)O(6)) to those of lead nitrate reveals that the ruthenium complex demonstrates an average mitotic inhibition eightfold higher than lead, with the frequency of cellular abnormalities almost fourfold lower and mitotic aberration threefold lower. A. cepa root cells exposed to a range of ruthenium complex concentrations did not display significant clastogenic effects. Cis-tetraammine(oxalato)ruthenium(III) dithionate therefore exhibits a remarkable capacity to inhibit mitosis, perhaps by inhibiting DNA synthesis or blocking the cell cycle in the G2 phase. Further investigation of the mechanisms of action of this ruthenium complex will be important to define its clinical potential and to contribute to a novel and rational approach to developing a new metal-based drug with antitumor properties complementary to those exhibited by the drugs already in clinical use.

Analysis in vivo of antitumor activity, Cytotoxicity and Interaction between plasmid DNA and the cis-dichlorotetraammineruthenium(III) chloride

Several metallic compounds recognized as potent antitumor agents, have been developed and tested in vivo and in vitro. In this work, we evaluated the toxic, therapeutic, and cytotoxic properties of the cis-dichloro-tetra-amine-ruthenium(III) chloride. Transplanted animals with Sarcoma 180 cells were treated with ruthenium(III) complex and injected i.p., at different time intervals. After the 15th day, tumoral postimplant, the animals were sacrificed and their lungs, kidneys, liver, and tumors were removed and processed for histopathological analysis. Blood samples were also taken for haematological and biochemical analyses. Interaction between the ruthenium complex and the DNA was also investigated. Besides being cytotoxic for the S180 cells, the metallic compound induced tumoral volume reduction and increased survival time of the animals treated. Serum levels of LDH, creatinine, and bilirubin increased, but no serious irreversible histopathological alterations were observed in the analyzed tissues. The compound did not cause anemia, but reduced the number of leukocytes in the treated animals. The absence of viable S180 cells, necrotic cells, and the presence of granulation tissue were observed in tumor tissue of treated animals. The Ru(III) complex, in the presence of the reduction agent, caused plasmid DNA to fragment. These results suggest that cis-RuCl(2)(NH(3))(4)Cl compound is a potent antitumoral drug in vitro and in vivo, which seems to involve binding to DNA molecule.

Anti-Taenia solium metacestodes antibodies in serum from blood donors from four cities of Triângulo Mineiro area, Minas Gerais, Brazil, 1995

Serological survey was performed to detect IgG antibodies anti-Taenia solium metacestodes in blood donors of Hemocentro Regional de Uberlândia, Minas Gerais, Brazil. A total of 1133 sera from blood donors coming from four cities of Triângulo Mineiro area were analyzed by the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) and the enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Specific IgG antibodies were found in 5.6% of the studied population, showing differences in the positive rates according to their origin: Araguari (13.5%), Tupaciguara (5.0%), Monte Alegre de Minas (4.8%) and Uberlândia (4.7%). The results indicate the probable endemicity of cysticercosis in this population.