Evaluation of depression symptoms and depression literacy among medical students: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

Mental health plays an important role in educational performance. The present study aimed to determine the relationship between depression symptoms, depression literacy, and quality of life in undergraduate and postgraduate medical students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

This cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2023 in Riyadh with 263 medical students. Data were obtained using three different sets of questionnaires (a demographic section, the Depression Literacy Scale, and a quality-of-life questionnaire).

RESULTS

In total, 134 men (51%) and 129 women (49%) participated in the study; out of these, 142 participants reported depression, while 109 individuals reported family-related depression. Only 25% of the participants attended depression seminars and workshops in the last year, while 83% felt that depression was an illness. Students with a family history of depression also reported higher levels of depression. Depression was lowest among students who attended depression management seminars or workshops. Marital status did not affect depression among medical students.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings reveal that depression is widespread among medical students and that counseling and frequent depression assessments are required. There is a need for greater awareness of different aspects of depression among medical students, parents, and medical educators. Health education programs and interventions targeting mental health care can be implemented at the individual, family, and community levels.

Translation and adaptation of the Arabic version of the injustice experience questionnaire in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to (1) translate the short version of the Injustice Experience Questionnaire (IEQ-SF) from English to Arabic and (2) test the validity and reliability of the translated Arabic version of the IEQ-SF.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional study in which the original English version of the IEQ-SF was translated into Arabic was conducted in accordance with Beaton's translation process. Internal consistency, reproducibility (retest within 5 days), and validity of the translated Arabic version of the IEQ-SF were tested in Arabic-speaking participants (n = 20). Individuals with chronic pain (n = 99) completed the Arabic versions of the IEQ-SF and the Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MSK-HQ) from June to August 2021. The main analyses included Cronbach's alpha (α), Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICC), and Spearman's rank correlations (ρ).

RESULTS

The internal consistency (α = 0.74) and test-retest reliability (ICC = 0.88, 0.83-0.92 95% CI) for the translated Arabic version of IEQ-SF were high. There was also a high correlation between the translated Arabic version of the IEQ-SF and different health-related questionnaires such as the MSK-HQ (ρ = -0.738; p < 0.001), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (ρ = 0.701-0.791; all, p < 0.001), and Pain Catastrophizing Scale (ρ = 0.762; p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The Arabic version of the IEQ-SF demonstrated high reliability and validity and would be useful for clinicians and researchers studying Arabic-speaking individuals with chronic pain.

SARS-CoV-2 virus associated angiotensin converting enzyme 2 expression modulation in colorectal cancer: Insights from mRNA and protein analysis COVID-19 associated (ACE2) expression in colorectal cancer

The SARS-CoV-2 virus gains entry into human cells by exploiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), a key component known as the spike protein (S), as a point of entry. Initially, SARS-CoV-2 suppresses the natural function of ACE2, leading to a gradual decline in cell health. Additionally, individuals with cancer are considered more susceptible to COVID-19. This study investigates the expression patterns of ACE2 in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients with and without a history of COVID-19 infection. RT-PCR was used to analyze samples from both cancerous and adjacent non-affected colorectal tissues of 47 CRC patients, comprising two groups: 24 CRC patients with no history of COVID-19 and 23 CRC patients with a recent history of COVID-19 infection. Epithelial CR cells were isolated from both types of tissues and cultured to evaluate cell adhesion. Immunohistochemistry analyses were conducted to examine ACE2 protein expression using various ACE2 antibodies for both cell types. The study revealed ACE2 mRNA expression in all CRC tissues of patients with and without a history of COVID-19. ACE2 expression was significantly higher in CRC patients without a history of COVID-19. Notably, the non-affected colorectal cancer (NACRC) tissues of patients without a history of COVID-19 also showed ACE2 expression, whereas no ACE2 expression was detected in the biopsies of CRC patients with a positive COVID-19 history. ACE2 antibodies were employed to validate ACE2 protein expression at the mRNA level. COVID-19 appears to downregulate ACE2 expression in both CRC and NACRC tissues of CRC patients with a positive history of COVID-19 infection.

FGFR3 and FGFR4 overexpression in juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma: impact of smoking history and implications for personalized management

Lifestyle factors, including smoking, have been linked to neoplastic diseases, and reports suggest an association between smoking and overexpression of FGFR (fibroblast growth factor receptor) in certain neoplasms. This study aims to assess the expression of FGFR3 and FGFR4 genes in patients with and without a history of smoking.A total of 118 participants were recruited, including 83 Juvenile Nasopharyngeal Angiofibroma (JNA) patients and 35 healthy participants, the JNA patients were further stratified as smokers and nonsmokers. Total RNA was extracted from the blood & saliva sample by using TRIzol reagent, and quantified using a Nanodrop, and then subjected to gene expression analysis of FGFR3/4 using RT-PCR. Immunohistochemistry analysis was employed using fresh biopsies of JNA to validate the findings. All experiments were performed in triplicates and analysed using the Chi-Square test (P < 0.05). Smokers exhibited significantly lower total RNA concentrations across all sample types (P < 0.001). The study revealed significant upregulation of both FGFR3/4 genes in JNA patients (P < 0.05). Moreover, FGFR3 expression was significantly higher among smokers 66% (95% CI: 53-79%) compared to non-smokers 22% (95% CI: 18-26%). Immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated moderate to strong staining intensity for FGFR3 among smokers. The study highlights the overexpression of FGFR3/4 genes in JNA patients, with a stronger association observed among smokers. Furthermore, medical reports indicated higher rates of recurrence and bleeding intensity among smokers. These findings emphasize the potential role of FGFR3 as a key molecular factor in JNA, particularly in the context of smoking.

Impact of iodine supplementation and mtDNA mutations on papillary thyroid cancer in saudi women following a vegetarian diet

This study examined the influence of iodine supplementation and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)  mutations in Saudi vegetarian women with papillary thyroid cancer (PTC). Blood and tissue samples from PTC-diagnosed women were analyzed for thyroid function, mtDNA mutations, and immunohistological features. Statistical analysis using Sigmastat was employed to compare thyroid hormone levels and mtDNA mutations between groups. Serum total levels of tri-iodothyronine and thyroid-stimulating hormone were significantly different in patients following a vegetarian diet (P<0.05). Patients with PTC showed an increased frequency of mtDNA mutations in the D-loop region, with significantly higher mutation rates observed in patients following a vegetarian diet compared to other PTC patient groups (P<0.001) and controls (P<0.01). Notably, the mutations were predominantly somatic in Group 3 and germline in Groups 1 and 2. The findings suggest a possible link between iodine deficiency and accelerated PTC tumorigenesis. Furthermore, mtDNA mutations may serve as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of PTC.

Genome-wide CNV analysis uncovers novel pathogenic regions in cohort of five multiplex families with neurodevelopmental disorders

Structural reorganization of chromosomes by genomic duplications and/or deletions are known as copy number variations (CNVs). Pathogenic and disease susceptible CNVs alter gene dosage and its phenotypic expression that often leads to human genetic diseases including Neurological disorders. CNVs affecting same common genes in multiple neurodevelopmental disorders can better explain the shared clinical and genetic aetiology across brain diseases. Our study presents the novel copy number variations in a cohort of five multiplex consanguineous families with intellectual disability, microcephaly, ASD, epilepsy, and neurological syndromic features. Cytoscan HD microarray suite has revealed genome wide deletions, duplications and LOH regions which are co-segregating in the family members for the rare neurodevelopmental syndromic phenotypes. This study identifies 1q21.1 microduplication, 16p11.2 microduplication, Xp11.22 microduplication, 4p12 microdeletion and Xq21.1 microdeletion that significantly contribute to primary disease onset and its progression for the first time in Pakistani families. Our study has potential impact on the understanding of pathogenic genetic predisposition for appearance of complex and heterogeneous neurodevelopmental disorders with otherwise unexplained syndromic features. Identification of altered gene dosage across the genome is helpful in improved diagnosis, better disease management in day-to-day life activities of patients with cognitive impairment and genetic counselling of families where consanguinity is a tradition. Our study will contribute to expand the knowledge of genotype-phenotype expression and future gateways in therapeutics and precision medicine research will be open in Pakistan.

Three cases of colon cancer in four generations of the Saudi family, caused by endogamous germline mutations

Various research pieces of evidence have been published in recent years, establishing the increasing prevalence of early colon cancer among young people. In this background, the current study aimed to analyze the reasons behind colon cancer recurrence among endogamous consanguineous cases in four generations of a single Saud family. For this study, the authors conducted the whole-exome sequencing analysis to screen for germline mutations in DNA samples from consanguineous cases within the family. After collecting the colon samples, it was analyzed histologically and immunohistochemically with the help of Breast Cancer antibodies (BRCA2 and 1 correspondingly) and H&M staining (hematoxylin and eosin). For this study, 26 at-risk consanguineous cases were considered. Three cases were diagnosed with malignant colon cancer, two with breast cancer, and 17 with germline mutations, yet remain unaffected by cancerous tumors. The rest, four consanguineous cases, are healthy and non-carriers of the mutations. However, as per the exome analysis outcomes, 15 cases inherited germline mutations in nine genes. Nine substitution mutations were present in six of the nine inherited genes in these inherited germline mutations. Furthermore, it also presented six insertion and deletion frameshift mutations in five of nine inherited genes. The immunohistochemical staining process achieved positive staining outcomes for BRCA1 and 2. Therefore, germline mutations inherited from the nine genes of endogamous consanguineous cases of mutation carriers remain the primary reason behind colon cancer recurrence in the same family.

Empirical Study on Exploring the Role of CD180 and MD-1 Prognostic Indicators for the Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) Disease

&lt;b&gt;Background and Objective:&lt;/b&gt; Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) is a frequent type of leukaemia disease. This study was focused on investigating the role of prognostic indicators, such as CD180 and MD-1 for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukaemia (CLL) pathogenesis because they involve cell signalling and proliferation. &lt;b&gt;Materials and Methods:&lt;/b&gt; A total of 12 normal controls and 52 patients were taken to determine the expressions of CD180 and MD-1 with different variations in comparison with the IgVH (Immunoglobulin Heavy Chain variable region gene) mutational status, FISH (fluorescence &lt;i&gt;in situ&lt;/i&gt; hybridization) and Rai staging. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; The quantitative data findings were evident that CD180 and MD-1 expressions showed insignificant differences among CLL patients at the protein level based on SPSS results. On the contrary, they resulted in significant differences for subgroups of established biomarkers like Rai staging (stages 0, I, II and III), FISH (13q and non-13q deletions) and IgVH (mutated and unmutated). &lt;b&gt;Conclusion:&lt;/b&gt; The CD180 and MD-1 have been used as prognostic indicators to evaluate the outcomes relevant to the cell cycle and survival rate of CLL cells.

Patterns of mutations in nine cancer-related genes and PAF development among smoking male patients diagnosed with bladder cancer

BACKGROUND

Smoking is one of the most popular risk factors provoking bladder cancer (BC). This research intended to estimate cigarette smoking effect involving PAF signs between smoking patients with BC and non-smoking patients with same diagnosis to define relations with pathological characteristics and their prognosis on zero-relapse and disease-associated recovery.

METHODS

Two groups of smokers (n = 54) and non-smokers (n = 62) were selected. Both cohorts of patients had BC. They were evaluated utilizing NGS on 9 cancer-related genes and confirmed through the Sanger DNA sequencing and histopathological tests based on H&E staining. The factor of smoking and impact of PAF development by ELISA assay and PAF-R manifestation in terms of immunochemical evaluation on BC areas comparing to a control group (n = 30) was examined involving healthy contributors, including the use of well-designed statistical trials.

RESULTS

The multivariate evaluation showed considerable rise in mutation patterns related to smoking among BC patients (group 3), increase in PAF development (***P<0.001) and vivid signs of PAF-R contrasted to non-smokers with BC (group 2) and control group (group 1). All the identified biological changes (gains/losses) were recorded at the same locations in both groups. Patients from group 3 held 3-4 various mutations, while patients from group 2 held 1-3 various mutations. Mutations were not identified in 30 respondents from control group. The most repeated mutations were identified in 3 of 9 examined genes, namely TP53, PIK3CA and PTEN, with highest rates of increase in Group 3. Moreover, histopathological tests revealed barely identifiable and abnormal traits in BC tissues, i.e. were without essential histopathological changes between groups 2 and 3.

CONCLUSION

Smoking of cigarettes provokes PAF development due to urothelial inflammation and rise of mutations in 9 cancer-related genes. These are indicative factors of inducing BC.

Detecting STR profiles from degrading menstrual blood samples and their use as possible evidence in forensic investigations

This research explores DNA consistency and attempts to detect STR profiles from the degrading menstrual blood samples (MBS) as reliable forensic evidence. Peripheral (PBS) and MBS of 30 healthy fertile females were taken on the menstrual cycle's second day. They were obtained at different time periods (0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 24, and 48 h) at 25 °C. DNA evaluation was fulfilled to analyze DNA profiles. A considerable elevation in the median concentrations of DNA between 0 and 14-h intervals were documented, whereas decreased extents were registered between 16 and 48 h. Moreover, complete STR profiles (24/24) for DNA were discovered in all the intervals (0, 2, and 48 h). Periods of 0-8 h demonstrated the maximum extents of DNA materials. Full STR were discovered in all the intervals (0, 2, and 48 h). Eventually, MBS can be utilized as forensic evidence.

Interaction of MyoD and MyoG with Myoz2 gene in bovine myoblast differentiation

This study aims to explore the functional role of Myoz2 in myoblast differentiation, and elucidate the potential factors interact with Myoz2 in promoter transcriptional regulation. The temporal-spatial expression results showed that the bovine Myoz2 gene was highest expressed in longissimus dorsi, and in individual growth stages and myoblast differentiation stages. Knockdown of Myoz2 inhibited the differentiation of myoblast, and negative effect of MyoD, MyoG, MyH and MEF2A expression on mRNA levels. Subsequently, the promoter region of bovine Myoz2 gene with 1.7 Kb sequence was extracted, and then it was set as eight series of deleted fragments, which were ligated into pGL3-basic to detect core promoter regions of Myoz2 gene in myoblasts and myotubes. Transcription factors MyoD and MyoG were identified as important cis-acting elements in the core promoter region (-159/+1). Also, it was highly conserved in different species based on dual-luciferase analysis and multiple sequence alignment analysis, respectively. Furthermore, a chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) analysis combined with site-directed mutation and siRNA interference and overexpression confirmed that the combination of MyoD and MyoG occurred in region -159/+1, and played an important role in the regulation of bovine Myoz2 gene. These findings explored the regulatory network mechanism of Myoz2 gene during the development of bovine skeletal muscle.

Potentials, prospects and applications of genome editing technologies in livestock production

In recent years, significant progress has been achieved in genome editing applications using new programmable DNA nucleases such as zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like endonucleases (TALENs) and the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/Cas9 system (CRISPR/Cas9). These genome editing tools are capable of nicking DNA precisely by targeting specific sequences, and enable the addition, removal or substitution of nucleotides via double-stranded breakage at specific genomic loci. CRISPR/Cas system, one of the most recent genome editing tools, affords the ability to efficiently generate multiple genomic nicks in single experiment. Moreover, CRISPR/Cas systems are relatively easy and cost effective when compared to other genome editing technologies. This is in part because CRISPR/Cas systems rely on RNA-DNA binding, unlike other genome editing tools that rely on protein–DNA interactions, which affords CRISPR/Cas systems higher flexibility and more fidelity. Genome editing tools have significantly contributed to different aspects of livestock production such as disease resistance, improved performance, alterations of milk composition, animal welfare and biomedicine. However, despite these contributions and future potential, genome editing technologies also have inherent risks, and therefore, ethics and social acceptance are crucial factors associated with implementation of these technologies. This review emphasizes the impact of genome editing technologies in development of livestock breeding and production in numerous species such as cattle, pigs, sheep and goats. This review also discusses the mechanisms behind genome editing technologies, their potential applications, risks and associated ethics that should be considered in the context of livestock.

Screening and Identification of Muscle-Specific Candidate Genes via Mouse Microarray Data Analysis

Muscle tissue is involved with every stage of life activities and has roles in biological processes. For example, the blood circulation system needs the heart muscle to transport blood to all parts, and the movement cannot be separated from the participation of skeletal muscle. However, the process of muscle development and the regulatory mechanisms of muscle development are not clear at present. In this study, we used bioinformatics techniques to identify differentially expressed genes specifically expressed in multiple muscle tissues of mice as potential candidate genes for studying the regulatory mechanisms of muscle development. Mouse tissue microarray data from 18 tissue samples was selected from the GEO database for analysis. Muscle tissue as the treatment group, and the other 17 tissues as the control group. Genes expressed in the muscle tissue were different to those in the other 17 tissues and identified 272 differential genes with highly specific expression in muscle tissue, including 260 up-regulated genes and 12 down regulated genes. is the genes were associated with the myofibril, contractile fibers, and sarcomere, cytoskeletal protein binding, and actin binding. KEGG pathway analysis showed that the differentially expressed genes in muscle tissue were mainly concentrated in pathways for AMPK signaling, cGMP PKG signaling calcium signaling, glycolysis, and, arginine and proline metabolism. A PPI protein interaction network was constructed for the selected differential genes, and the MCODE module used for modular analysis. Five modules with Score > 3.0 are selected. Then the Cytoscape software was used to analyze the tissue specificity of differential genes, and the genes with high degree scores collected, and some common genes selected for quantitative PCR verification. The conclusion is that we have screened the differentially expressed gene set specific to mouse muscle to provide potential candidate genes for the study of the important mechanisms of muscle development.

Determination of the relationship between class IV sirtuin genes and growth traits in Chinese black Tibetan sheep

Class IV sirtuin (SIRT6 and SIRT7) played essential roles in biometabolism processes via deacetylating specific transcription factors. The present study was conducted to search for mutations in SIRT6/7 and determine their associations with growth traits in black Tibetan sheep. Via DNA sequencing methods, three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified in 427 ewes, including a mutation (g.3724C > T) in the intron 1 of SIRT6 and two mutations (g.3668G > T and g.4223C > G) in SIRT7 intron 6 and 8, respectively. Based on the χ² test, both g.3724C > T and g.4223C > G loci fitted with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (p > 0.05). Compared with animals with genotype TT, the CC genotype at g.3724C > T locus (SIRT6) exhibited the highest mean for body weight (p < 0.05) and heart girth (p < 0.05). At g.3668G > T locus (SIRT7), individuals carrying the GG genotype tended to have heavier body weight than those of TT genotype (p < 0.05). With the exception of body weight, body measurement traits not affected by combinative genotype (p > 0.05). Our results could be used as genetic markers for marker-assisted selection and maybe guide sheep breeding in economic traits.

Toxicity of Somadril Compound on Fetal Ileum Tissues of Albino Rats

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Carisoprodol is a relaxant muscular-skeleton associated with sore muscles and appropriate studies have not been performed on carisoprodol effects on fetuses and mothers. This study has been conducted to clarify the treatment with a high and low dosage of carisoprodol (Somadril) on the histopathological, histochemical changes in the fetal ileum of the Albino rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In the present research 30 adult pregnant rats have been used and divided into three classes (10 pregnant rats in each group), the first group was the group of Control (C). The 2nd and 3rd groups (S1 and S2) were treated with carisoprodol oral doses equating to 10.8 and 21.6 mg/100 g b.wt. per day, respectively. For 15 days from day 6-20 of pregnancy, groups S1 and S2 are administered. On the 20th day of pregnancy, the pregnant rats were sacrificed and small parts of fetal ileum for histopathological and histochemical studies.

RESULTS

Diverse histopathological and histochemical alternations were detected in the fetal ileum tissue of the two groups S1 and S2 after maternal treatment with high and low doses of carisoprodol compared to the control set.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that several histopathological and histochemical deformities in the fetal ileum tissues were caused by the administration of carisoprodol.

Oral cancer among Khat users: finding evidence from DNA analysis of nine cancer-related gene mutations

BACKGROUND

Khat leaves contain the alkaloid cathinone. Research shows that khat might provoke toxicity, mutagenicity, as well as carcinogenicity.

METHODS

Two groups were identified as khat abusers and were categorized by abuse time and diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Here, 41 participants from Group 2 were short-term khat users, and 42 participants were long-term khat users. The control group included 30 healthy individuals. The coding exons included nine cancer-related genes and were analysed. The histopathological research was conducted with H&E staining along with the TP53 protein expression by implementing immunohistochemical analyses.

RESULTS

Here, 41 short-term khat users carried seven somatic mutations in four out of nine cancer-related genes: 29/41(70.73%) ARID1A, 24/41(58.53%) MLH1, 34/41(82.92%) PIK3CA and 36/41(87.80%) TP53. The 42 long-term khat users incorporated nine somatic mutations in five out of nin ecancer-related genes: 40/42(95.23%) ARID1A, 36/42(85.71%) ARID2, 29/42(69.04%) PIK3CA, 27/42(64.28%) MLH1, and 35/42(83.33%) TP53. Every khat user had somatic mutations related to OSCC affecting the gingiva and the lower lip. TP53 protein expression was confirmed in all immunohistochemical oral tests. Carcinoma was also positive in the histopathological analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Khat is a mutagenic and carcinogenic plant that provoked OSCC among short-term khat users (<15 years of use) and long-term users (>15 years of use).

Assessment of Metastatic Colorectal Cancer (CRC) Tissues for Interpreting Genetic Data in Forensic Science by Applying 16 STR Loci among Saudi Patients

Background:

In forensic science, there are cases when the only available provider of biological data is samples of malignant tissues. It can be useful in identification and/or paternity tests. Still, such samples have ambiguities because of microsatellite instability (MSI) and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) effects, being often related to neoplasia.

Methods:

This research evaluates 16 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) loci (traditional in forensic investigations) to get genetic data. MSI and LOH were estimated in DNA patterns derived from 73 Saudi respondents (30 healthy individuals and 43 persons with diagnosed colorectal cancer (CRC). Upon deriving DNA from blood, CRC specimens were obtained in both groups, along with the adjoining normal non-cancerous tissues (N-CRC). All specimens and 16 loci (15 STR loci and Amelogenin) were evaluated. Moreover, both colorectal samples were histologically analyzed utilizing HandE staining.

Results:

Findings revealed non-essential variability in genetic information because of MSI and/or LOH. In CRC, mutations rates were 0.42% (MSI) and 1.62% (LOH). In N-CRC, mutation rates were 0.00% (MSI) and 0.59% (LOH). Further, LOH-related deviations were recorded in 5 loci out of 16. MSI-related deviations were recorded in 4 out of 16 loci, being present in CRC samples only. Genetic deviations within the marker loci might inform about false homozygosity/heterozygosity. Similarly, false gender might come from improper interpretation of DNA profiles. Finally, histopathological trials showed considerable histopathological alterations contrasted to N-CRC.

Conclusion:

This study is unique in demonstrating the application of 16 autosomal STRs from CRC samples and their comparison with the adjoining N-CRCs in Saudi participants, contributing to the field of forensic science. The experiment revealed no considerable distinctions, while showing that cancer tissues might display MSI and LOH effects that might challenge data interpretation, if STRs are to be applied in the forensic investigation.

Ginsenoside Rb1 prevents deoxynivalenol-induced immune injury via alleviating oxidative stress and apoptosis in mice

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is considered to be a grave threat to humans and animals. Ginsenoside Rb1 (Rb1) has been reported for its antioxidant potential and medicinal properties. However, the shielding effects of Rb1 and the precise molecular mechanisms against DON-induced immunotoxicity in mice have not been reported yet. In the present research, 4-weeks old healthy C57BL/6 mice were randomly assigned into four experimental groups (n = 12), viz., CON, DON 3 mg/kg BW, Rb1 50 mg/kg BW and DON 3 mg/kg + Rb1 50 mg/kg BW (DON + Rb1). Feed intake and body weight gain were monitored during the entire experiment (15 d). Our results demonstrated that Rb1 markedly increased the ADG (30%) and ADFI (25.10%) of mice compared with DON group. Furthermore, Rb1 alleviated the DON-induced immune injury by relieving the splenic histopathological alteration, enhancing the T-lymphocytes subsets (CD4⁺, CD8⁺), the levels of cytokines (IL-2, IL-6, IFN-γ, and TNF-α), as well as production of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, and IgG). Moreover, Rb1 ameliorated DON-inflicted oxidative stress by reducing the ROS, MDA and H₂O₂ contents and boosting the antioxidant defense system (T-AOC, T-SOD, CAT, and GSH-Px). Additionally, Rb1 significantly reversed the DON-induced excessive splenic apoptosis via modulating the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway in mice, depicting the decreased percentage of splenocyte apoptotic cells by 26.65%, down-regulated the mRNA abundance of Bax, caspase-3, caspase-9, and protein expression of Bax, cleaved caspase-3, and Cyt-c. Simultaneously, Rb1 markedly rescued both Bcl-2 mRNA and protein expression levels. Taken together, Rb1 mitigates DON-induced immune injury by suppressing the oxidative damage and regulating the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway in mice. Conclusively, our current research provides an insight into the preventive mechanism of Rb1 against DON-induced immune injury in mice and thus, presents a scientific baseline for the therapeutic application of Rb1.

Variations in the insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) and its association with growth traits in Chinese black Tibetan sheep (Ovis aries)

This paper presented the results on the study of insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS1) polymorphisms in Chinese black Tibetan sheep. Via DNA direct sequencing, four variations within 3' untranslated region (UTR) of IRS1, including g.9382T > G, g.9569T > G, g.9572C > T and g.9695A > C were detected in the black Tibetan sheep population. Based on the χ² test, those four loci deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (p < 0.05). In g.9569T > G locus, genotype of GG possessed advantage on body weight (p < 0.05). In g.9572C > T locus, individuals with genotype of TT homozygous mutation decreased significantly on body weight, withers height, body length and chest circumference (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). In g.9695A > C locus, the body weight and chest circumference were also higher in AA carriers than in CC carriers (p < 0.05). Our results provided evidence that polymorphisms in IRS1 were associated with growth efficiency traits by quantitative genetic analysis, and may be used for marker-assisted selection in Chinese indigenous sheep.

Exploring the non-coding regions in the mtDNA of some honey bee species and subspecies

The sequence of the DNA contains coding and non-coding regions. The role of the non-coding regions is not known and is hypothesized to maintain the structure of the DNA. This study aimed to investigate the structure of the non-coding sequences in honey bees utilizing bioinformatics. The non-coding sequences of the mtDNA of three honey bee species Apis dorosata, Apis florea, Apis cerana, and ten subspecies of Apis mellifera were investigated. Different techniques were utilized to explore the non-coding regions of these bees including sequence analysis, phylogenetic relationships, enzymatic digestion, and statistical tests. Variations in size and sequences of nucleotides were detected in the studied species and subspecies, but with the same nucleotide abundance (i.e. nucleotides A were more than T and nucleotides G were less than C). The phylogenetic tree based on the non-coding regions was partially similar to the known phylogenetic relationships between these bees. The enzymatic digestion using four restriction enzymes confirmed the results of the phylogenetic relationships. The statistical analysis based on numerical codes for nucleotides showed the absence of significant variations between the studied bees in their sequences in a similar way to results of neutrality tests. This study suggests that the non-coding regions have the same functional role in all the studied bees regardless of the number of nucleotides, and not just to maintain the structure of the DNA. This is approximately the first study to shade lights on the non-coding regions of the mtDNA of honey bees.