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The number of patients taking new oral anticoagulants is rising, so is the number of serious bleeding events. In severe bleeding, the decision to start a procoagulant therapy is difficult to take. With Idarucizumab and Andexanet Alfa, specific antidotes have been developed against both, direct thrombin inhibitors as well as direct Factor Xa inhibitors. In the endoscopic treatment of severe gastrointestinal bleeding, alternative treatment options are available with Hemospray™, Endoclot™ and new hemostasis clips. Especially in the recurrent ulcer bleeding, the newly developed clips can achieve hemostasis and prevent an operational procedure.
Andexanet Alfa is an antidote of which clotting factor inhibitors?
With Idarucizumab and Andexanet Alfa, specific antidotes have been developed against both, direct thrombin inhibitors as well as direct Factor Xa inhibitors.
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic disorder because of a LMNA gene mutation that produces a mutant lamin A protein (progerin). Progerin also has been correlated to physiological aging and related diseases. However, how progerin causes the progeria remains unknown. Here, we report that the large subunit (RFC1) of replication factor C is cleaved in HGPS cells, leading to the production of a truncated RFC1 of ~ 75 kDa, which appears to be defective in loading proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) and pol δ onto DNA for replication. Interestingly, the cleavage can be inhibited by a serine protease inhibitor, suggesting that RFC1 is cleaved by a serine protease. Because of the crucial role of RFC in DNA replication, our findings provide a mechanistic interpretation for the observed early replicative arrest and premature aging phenotypes of HPGS and may lead to novel strategies in HGPS treatment. Furthermore, this unique truncated form of RFC1 may serve as a potential marker for HGPS.
What is the protein that is truncated to produce progerin?
Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) is a rare genetic disorder because of a LMNA gene mutation that produces a mutant lamin A protein (progerin).
Elmo1 and Elmo2 are highly homologous cytoplasmic adaptor proteins that interact with Dock family guanine nucleotide exchange factors to promote activation of the small GTPase Rac. In T lymphocytes, Dock2 is essential for CCR7- and CXCR4-dependent Rac activation and chemotaxis, but the role of Elmo proteins in regulating Dock2 function in primary T cells is not known. In this article, we show that endogenous Elmo1, but not Elmo2, interacts constitutively with Dock2 in mouse and human primary T cells. CD4(+) T cells from Elmo1(-/-) mice were profoundly impaired in polarization, Rac activation, and chemotaxis in response to CCR7 and CXCR4 stimulation. Transfection of full-length Elmo1, but not Elmo2 or a Dock2-binding mutant of Elmo1, rescued defective migration of Elmo1(-/-) T cells. Interestingly, Dock2 protein levels were reduced by 4-fold in Elmo1(-/-) lymphocytes despite normal levels of Dock2 mRNA. Dock2 polyubiquitination was increased in Elmo1(-/-) T cells, and treatment with proteasome inhibitors partially restored Dock2 levels in Elmo1(-/-) T cells. Finally, we show that Dock2 is directly ubiquitinated in CD4(+) T cells and that Elmo1 expression in heterologous cells inhibits ubiquitination of Dock2. Taken together, these findings reveal a previously unknown, nonredundant role for Elmo1 in controlling Dock2 levels and Dock2-dependent T cell migration in primary lymphocytes. Inhibition of Dock2 has therapeutic potential as a means to control recruitment of pathogenic lymphocytes in diseased tissues. This work provides valuable insights into the molecular regulation of Dock2 by Elmo1 that can be used to design improved inhibitors that target the Elmo-Dock-Rac signaling complex.
What is the role of ELMO1 gene in cell migration?
these findings reveal a previously unknown, nonredundant role for Elmo1 in controlling Dock2 levels and Dock2-dependent T cell migration in primary lymphocytes
Since telomerase has been recognized as a relevant factor distinguishing cancer cells from normal cells, it has become a very promising target for anti-cancer therapy. A correlation between short telomere length and increased mortality was revealed in many studies. The telomerase expression/activity appears to be one of the most crucial factors to study to improve cancer therapy and prevention. However, this multisubunit enzymatic complex can be regulated at various levels. Thus, several strategies have been proposed to control telomerase in cancer cells such as anti-sense technology against TR and TERT, ribozymes against TERT, anti-estrogens, progesterone, vitamin D, retinoic acid, quadruplex stabilizers, telomere and telomerase targeting agents, modulation of interaction with other proteins involved in the regulation of telomerase and telomeres, etc. However, the transcription control of key telomerase subunits seems to play the crucial role in whole complexes activity and cancer cells immortality. Thus, the research of telomerase regulation can bring significant insight into the knowledge concerning stem cells metabolism but also ageing. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge of numerous telomerase regulation mechanisms at the transcription level in human that might become attractive anti-cancer therapy targets.
Do normal cells express the protein TERT?
Since telomerase has been recognized as a relevant factor distinguishing cancer cells from normal cells, it has become a very promising target for anti-cancer therapy
WormBase (https://wormbase.org/) is a mature Model Organism Information Resource supporting researchers using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system for studies across a broad range of basic biological processes. Toward this mission, WormBase efforts are arranged in three primary facets: curation, user interface and architecture. In this update, we describe progress in each of these three areas. In particular, we discuss the status of literature curation and recently added data, detail new features of the web interface and options for users wishing to conduct data mining workflows, and discuss our efforts to build a robust and scalable architecture by leveraging commercial cloud offerings. We conclude with a description of WormBase's role as a founding member of the nascent Alliance of Genome Resources.
Which organisms are the focus of the Wormbase?
WormBase (https://wormbase.org/) is a mature Model Organism Information Resource supporting researchers using the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans as a model system for studies across a broad range of basic biological processes.
Amphibian granular glands provide a wide range of compounds on the skin that defend against pathogens and predators. We identified three bufadienolides-the steroid-like compounds arenobufagin, gamabufotalin, and telocinobufagin-from the boreal toad, Anaxyrus boreas, through liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Compounds were detected both after inducing skin gland secretions and in constitutive mucosal rinses from toads. We described the antimicrobial properties of each bufadienolide against Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd), an amphibian fungal pathogen linked with boreal toad population declines. All three bufadienolides were found to inhibit Bd growth at similar levels. The maximum Bd inhibition produced by arenobufagin, gamabufotalin, and telocinobufagin were approximately 50%, in contrast to the complete Bd inhibition shown by antimicrobial skin peptides produced by some amphibian species. In addition, skin mucus samples significantly reduced Bd viability, and bufadienolides were detected in 15 of 62 samples. Bufadienolides also appeared to enhance growth of the anti-Bd bacterium Janthinobacterium lividum, and thus may be involved in regulation of the skin microbiome. Here, we localized skin bacteria within the mucus layer and granular glands of toads with fluorescent in situ hybridization. Overall, our results suggest that bufadienolides can function in antifungal defense on amphibian skin and their production is a potentially convergent trait similar to antimicrobial peptide defenses found on the skin of other species. Further studies investigating bufadienolide expression across toad populations, their regulation, and interactions with other components of the skin mucosome will contribute to understanding the complexities of amphibian immune defense.
From where is gamabufotalin (GBT) isolated?
We identified three bufadienolides-the steroid-like compounds arenobufagin, gamabufotalin, and telocinobufagin-from the boreal toad,
Zinc finger proteins are a massive, diverse family of proteins that serve a wide variety of biological functions. However, the roles of them during meiosis are not yet clearly defined. Here, we report that Zfp207 localizes at the kinetochores during mouse oocyte meiotic maturation. Depletion of Zfp207 leads to a significantly higher proportion of impaired spindle organization and misaligned chromosomes in oocytes. This is coupled with the defective kinetochore-microtubule attachments, and resultantly increasing incidence of aneuploid metaphase II eggs. The precocious polar body extrusion and escape of metaphase I arrest induced by nocodazole treatment in Zfp207-depleted oocytes indicates that Zfp207 is essential for activation of SAC (Spindle Assembly Checkpoint) activity. Notably, we find that Zfp207 binds to Bub3 to form a complex and maintains its protein level in oocytes, and that overexpression of Bub3 is able to partially rescue the occurrence of aneuploid eggs in Zfp207-depleted oocytes. Collectively, we identify Zfp207 as a novel Bub3 binding protein in oocytes which plays an important role in controlling meiotic chromosome alignment and SAC function.
What is the effect of nocodazole cell treatment?
escape of metaphase I arrest induced by nocodazole treatment
Down's syndrome results from the production of three copies of chromosome 21 within a cell. We have devised a method termed the homologous gene quantitative polymerase chain reaction (HGQ-PCR), which uses one pair of primers and which can directly identify the additional copy of chromosome 21 by simultaneously amplifying two highly homologous genes of the human liver-type phosphofructokinase located on chromosome 21 (PFKL-CH21) and the human muscle-type phosphofructokinase located on chromosome 1 (PFKM-CH1) for self-detecting determination. On analysis of 34 cases of Down's syndrome, including two cases of unbalanced translocation 46, XY, der (14; 21) (q10; q10), + 21, and 100 normal individuals, the relative ratio of the PFKM-CH1/PFKL-CH21 product was 1.33 +/- 0.323 (mean +/- SD) and 0.40 +/- 0.16 (mean +/- SD) for disomy DNA and trisomy DNA, respectively. The difference between these two groups was highly significant (P < 0.001). These results indicate that this quantitative method is practical and may be used for the prenatal diagnosis of Down's syndrome caused by trisomy 21.
Down's syndrome occurs when an individual has an extra copy or part of a copy of chromosome 21, yes or no?
Down's syndrome results from the production of three copies of chromosome 21 within a cell.
Pro-inflammatory mediators hold important functions in human body in response to infection, trauma and vascular disease. However, their action is down regulated by the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, thus restoring a balance which reflects the immune status of a given individual. Recent studies have stressed out the importance of circulating levels of cytokines for forensic purposes even if there is a lack of studies regarding the role of post-mortem mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue. In this respect, Peyer's patches (PP), represent one of the most important immunological site of the body and the major component of the gut -associated lymphoid tissue. The aim of this study was to evaluate post-mortem PP immune response in 40 serial autopsy cases of people who died from natural and traumatic death. The study examined spontaneous release of the following cytokines by fresh isolated PP cells: interleukin (IL)-12, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, IL-10, IL-6, IL-1 beta, and IL-8. Results will show that higher levels of TNF-alpha, IL-6, IL-1 beta, and IL-8 are statistically correlated with the traumatic death group. From a forensic point of view these data demonstrate that fundamental lymphoid organs, such as PP, may have a potential in diagnosing the cause of death.
Where is the body would the Peyer's patches be found
this respect, Peyer's patches (PP), represent one of the most important immunological site of the body and the major component of the gut -associated lymphoid tissue. The a
Heyde syndrome is a triad of aortic stenosis, acquired coagulopathy, and anemia due to bleeding from intestinal angiodysplasia. Here we describe a case of this syndrome. An 80-year-old woman with severe aortic stenosis was referred to our department for an aortic valve replacement. She suffered from recurrent iron-deficiency anemia and required transfusions every 2 weeks. Gastroscopy and colonoscopy were normal with the exception of angiodysplasia without bleeding in the cecum. After aortic valve replacement her anemia was resolved. She was discharged on postoperative day 22. No transfusions were needed after the procedure. To date, her hemoglobin has remained stable at >10 mg/dL.
Describe Heyde syndrome.
Heyde syndrome is a triad of aortic stenosis, acquired coagulopathy, and anemia due to bleeding from intestinal angiodysplasia. Here we describe a case of this syndrome.
Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis is a clinical syndrome of ophthalmoplegia, cerebellar ataxia, and central nervous system signs and is associated with the presence of anti-GQ1b antibodies. There is a clinical continuum between Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis and Miller Fisher syndrome. We describe the case of an 11-year-old boy with encephalopathy, external ophthalmoplegia, brainstem signs, and ataxia with raised titers of anti-GQ1b antibodies. He presented following a respiratory illness and had laboratory evidence of recent infection with Mycoplasma pneumoniae. M pneumoniae infection has been associated with both Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis and Miller Fisher syndrome. This is only the second case in the literature of Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis with raised titers of anti-GQ1b antibodies described in association with M pneumoniae infection. The patient responded to intravenous immunoglobulin administration.
Which antibody is implicated in the Bickerstaff's brainstem encephalitis?
This is only the second case in the literature of Bickerstaff brainstem encephalitis with raised titers of anti-GQ1b antibodies described in association with M pneumoniae infection.
Pridopidine (ACR16) belongs to a new pharmacological class of agents affecting the central nervous system called dopaminergic stabilizers. Dopaminergic stabilizers act primarily at dopamine type 2 (D(2)) receptors and display state-dependent behavioural effects. This article aims to give an overview of the preclinical neurochemical and behavioural in vivo pharmacological properties of pridopidine. Pridopidine was given s.c. to male Sprague-Dawley rats (locomotor, microdialysis and tissue neurochemistry) and i.p. to Swiss male mice (tail suspension test). Pridopidine dose-dependently increased striatal tissue levels of the dopamine metabolite 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanin (ED(50)=81 micromol/kg), and prefrontal cortex dialysate levels of dopamine and noradrenaline as measured by high performance liquid chromatography. The agent reduced hyperlocomotion (d-amphetamine: ED(50)=54 micromol/kg; MK-801: ED(50)=40 micromol/kg), but preserved spontaneous locomotor activity, confirming state-dependent behavioural effects. In addition, pridopidine significantly reduced immobility time in the tail suspension test. We conclude that pridopidine state-dependently stabilizes psychomotor activity by the dual actions of functional dopamine D(2) receptor antagonism and strengthening of cortical glutamate functions in various settings of perturbed neurotransmission. The putative restoration of function in cortico-subcortical circuitry by pridopidine is likely to make it useful for ameliorating several neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Huntington's disease.
Pridopidine has been tested for treatment of which disorder?
The putative restoration of function in cortico-subcortical circuitry by pridopidine is likely to make it useful for ameliorating several neurological and psychiatric disorders, including Huntington's disease.
The purpose of this study was to test whether the severity of the cranial phenotype in Muenke syndrome infants with unicoronal synostosis is greater than in infants with nonsyndromic unicoronal synostosis. A total of 23 infants were included in the study. All infants included in the study had a computed tomography (CT)-verified synostosis of the coronal suture. The patients were either placed into the "Muenke" group (n=11) or the "non-Muenke" control group (n=12) on the basis of a test for the P250R mutation in the FGFR3 gene. On the basis of CT scans, a three-dimensional surface model corresponding to bone was created for each individual. The sutures were inspected for synostosis, and the degree of synostosis was assessed. Increased digital markings were recorded for both groups. Craniofacial morphology was assessed quantitatively using bony landmarks and recording of the midsagittal surface of the calvaria, cranial base, and maxillary complex. Increased digital markings were more severe posteriorly in Muenke patients than in non-Muenke patients. The Muenke patients with unilateral coronal synostosis showed a somewhat more severe asymmetry in the anterior part of the skull than the non-Muenke patients. The study indicates differences with regard to severity of increased digital markings and craniofacial asymmetry between the infants with Muenke syndrome and the infants with nonsyndromic unilateral coronal synostosis.
What symptoms characterize the Muenke syndrome?
Increased digital markings were more severe posteriorly in Muenke patients than in non-Muenke patients. The Muenke patients with unilateral coronal synostosis showed a somewhat more severe asymmetry in the anterior part of the skull than the non-Muenke patients.
Autosomal-recessive Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia (SIOD) characterized by spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), T-cell immunodeficiency and facial dysmorphism is caused by defects in the SMARCAL1 gene. The gene product is involved in the transcriptional regulation of other genes. A 12-year-old boy of consanginous Turkish descent developed disproportionate short stature from spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia at the age of 6 and nephrotic syndrome at the age of 10 years. Renal biopsy revealed FSGS, the kidney function was normal, T-lymphocytes were diminished without infectious complications, and he has had no cerebral ischemia. Analysis of the patient's SMARCAL1 gene revealed a novel homozygous C1798T transition leading to a R561C substitution. The parents and two healthy sisters were found to be heterozygous. A younger brother, who is also homozygous for the mutation, is clinically asymptomatic and has no proteinuria at the age of 18 months. Still, his CD4 cells are diminished. For SMARCAL1 mutations a clear genotype-phenotype correlation has been reported: severe SIOD with in utero or early-childhood onset leading to end-stage renal disease within a few years is caused by nonsense, frame shift or splice mutations. Many patients die from infections and cerebrovascular insults during childhood. Mild SIOD manifests later and progresses more slowly without infectious or cerebral vascular complications--the underlying defect being missense mutations in all three patients reported so far. The novel R561C missense mutation in our patient with mild SIOD is additional evidence for the genotype-phenotype correlation reported for SMARCAL1 mutations.
Mutations in which gene cause Schimke immune-osseous dysplasia?
Autosomal-recessive Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia (SIOD) characterized by spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia, focal-segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), T-cell immunodeficiency and facial dysmorphism is caused by defects in the SMARCAL1 gene.
cause sudden cardiac death?
families that exhibit CPVT (catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia), a condition in which physical or emotional stress can trigger severe tachyarrhythmias that can lead to sudden cardiac death.
null
The positive selection of a nucleotide substitution in exon 2 of Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (pfcrt) gene (mutation responsible for chloroquine resistance) causes a reduction in variation of neutral loci close to the gene. This reduction in allelic diversity around flanking regions of pfcrt gene was reported in worldwide chloroquine resistant isolates and referred as selective sweep. In Plasmodium falciparum isolates of India, the selective sweep in flanking loci of pfcrt gene is well established, however, high allelic diversity observed in intragenic microsatellites of pfcrt gene implied an ongoing genetic recombination. To understand, if molecular evolution of chloroquine-resistant P. falciparum isolates in India follow a selective sweep model, we analyzed genetic diversity at both seven intragenic and seven flanking microsatellites of pfcrt (-24 to +106kb) gene in chloroquine sensitive and resistant parasites originating from high and low transmission areas. We observed low expected heterozygosity at all loci of resistant pfcrt-haplotypes (He=0-0.77) compared to the wild-type (He=0.38-0.96). Resistant SVMNT from high transmission areas showed significantly higher mean He (P=0.03, t-test) at both intragenic and pfcrt-flanking loci (-24 to +22 kb) in comparison to low transmission areas. Our observation of reduction in variation at both intragenic and flanking loci of mutant pfcrt gene confirmed the selective sweep model of natural selection in chloroquine resistant P. falciparum isolates in India.
Does a selective sweep increase genetic variation?
Our observation of reduction in variation at both intragenic and flanking loci of mutant pfcrt gene confirmed the selective sweep model of natural selection in chloroquine resistant P.
Mass spectrometry-based metabolomics relies on MS(2) data for structural characterization of metabolites. To obtain the high-quality MS(2) data necessary to support metabolite identifications, ions of interest must be purely isolated for fragmentation. Here, we show that metabolomic MS(2) data are frequently characterized by contaminating ions that prevent structural identification. Although using narrow-isolation windows can minimize contaminating MS(2) fragments, even narrow windows are not always selective enough, and they can complicate data analysis by removing isotopic patterns from MS(2) spectra. Moreover, narrow windows can significantly reduce sensitivity. In this work, we introduce a novel, two-part approach for performing metabolomic identifications that addresses these issues. First, we collect MS(2) scans with less stringent isolation settings to obtain improved sensitivity at the expense of specificity. Then, by evaluating MS(2) fragment intensities as a function of retention time and precursor mass targeted for MS(2) analysis, we obtain deconvolved MS(2) spectra that are consistent with pure standards and can therefore be used for metabolite identification. The value of our approach is highlighted with metabolic extracts from brain, liver, astrocytes, as well as nerve tissue, and performance is evaluated by using pure metabolite standards in combination with simulations based on raw MS(2) data from the METLIN metabolite database. A R package implementing the algorithms used in our workflow is available on our laboratory website ( http://pattilab.wustl.edu/decoms2.php ).
What is the content of the METLIN database?
METLIN metabolite database
Epidemiological studies suggest an important link between obesity and thyroid cancer. The adipose tissue-derived polypeptide leptin acting via leptin receptor may modulate cell migration of thyroid cancer cells. Previously we have demonstrated that leptin receptor is overexpressed in papillary thyroid cancer and is associated with tumor aggressiveness. The present study was undertaken to explore the possible regulatory factors which would influence leptin receptor expression in papillary thyroid cancer cells. We found that DNA methyltransferase inhibitor (5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine) and histone deacetylase inhibitor (trichostatin A) reduced leptin receptor expression. Conversely, insulin upregulated leptin receptor expression in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Hypoxia-mimicking agent (cobalt chloride) had no effect on leptin receptor expression. Taken together, our study provides evidence that epigenetic events and insulin stimulation take part in regulation of leptin receptor expression in papillary thyroid cancer cells.
Which are the inhibitors of histone methyltransferases?
We found that DNA methyltransferase inhibitor (5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine) and histone deacetylase inhibitor (trichostatin A) reduced leptin receptor expression.
In mammals, most of the selenium contained in the body is present as an unusual amino acid, selenocysteine (Sec), whose codon is UGA. Because the UGA codon is typically recognized as a translation stop signal, it is intriguing how a cell recognizes and distinguishes a UGA Sec codon from a UGA stop codon. For eukaryotic selenoprotein mRNAs, it has been proposed that a conserved stem-loop structure designated the Sec insertion sequence (SECIS) in the 3'-untranslated (3'-UTR) region is required for recognition of UGA as a Sec codon. Some proteins which bind to SECIS (SBP) have been reported. However, it is not clear how the SECIS element in the 3'-UTR can mediate Sec insertion far at the in-frame UGA Sec codons. The idea that there must be a signal near the UGA Sec codon is still considered. Therefore, we searched for a protein which binds to an RNA sequence surrounding the UGA Sec codon on human glutathione peroxidase (GPx) mRNA. We found a protein which strongly bound to the RNA fragment upstream of the UGA Sec codon. However, this protein did not bind to the RNA sequence downstream of the UGA codon. This protein also bound to the SECIS sequence in the 3'-UTR of human GPx, and this binding to SECIS was competed with the RNA fragment upstream of the UGA Sec codon. Comparison of the RNA fragment with the SECIS fragment identified the conserved regions, which appeared in the region upstream of the in-frame UGA Sec codon of Se-protein mRNAs. Thus, this study proposes a novel model to understand the mechanisms of Sec incorporation at the UGA Sec codon, especially the regions upstream of the UGA codon of mRNAs of mammalian selenoproteins. This model explains that the stem-loop structure covering the UGA codon is recognized by SBP and how the UGA Sec codon escapes from attack by eRF of the peptide releasing factor.
What is the name of the stem loop present in the 3' end of genes encoding for selenoproteins?
For eukaryotic selenoprotein mRNAs, it has been proposed that a conserved stem-loop structure designated the Sec insertion sequence (SECIS) in the 3'-untranslated (3'-UTR) region is required for recognition of UGA as a Sec codon
In this investigation an attempt has been made to determine the relationship between the staining of permanent teeth by tetracycline administered during the period of tooth formation with the dosage of the drug and the duration of therapy. Of 238 subjects whose hospital records indicated ingestion of stated doses of tetracycline, some 49 were seen to have staining which was confirmed by fluorescence, and a further six had staining which did not fluoresce and hence could not be confirmed. A definite relationship between total dosage and staining and duration of administration and staining was established; the condition occurred with greater frequency (in more than one-third of the children) when the total dosage exceeded 3 g. or the duration of treatment was longer than 10 days. However, as staining was seen at all dosage levels, whatever the duration, physicians should continue to follow previous advice and prescribe other antibiotics where possible for children under 8 years of age or for women in the last trimester of pregnancy.
Can tetracycline affect tooth formation?
n this investigation an attempt has been made to determine the relationship between the staining of permanent teeth by tetracycline administered during the period of tooth formation with the dosage of the drug and the duration of therap
The emergence of Zika virus in the Americas has followed a pattern that is familiar from earlier epidemics of other viruses, where a new disease is introduced into a human population and then spreads rapidly with important public health consequences. In the case of Zika virus, an accumulating body of recent evidence implicates the virus in the etiology of serious pathologies of the human nervous system, that is, the occurrence of microcephaly in neonates and Guillain-Barré syndrome in adults. Zika virus is an arbovirus (arthropod-borne virus) and a member of the family Flaviviridae, genus Flavivirus. Zika virions are enveloped and icosahedral, and contain a nonsegmented, single-stranded, positive-sense RNA genome, which encodes 3 structural and 7 nonstructural proteins that are expressed as a single polyprotein that undergoes cleavage. Zika genomic RNA replicates in the cytoplasm of infected host cells. Zika virus was first detected in 1947 in the blood of a febrile monkey in Uganda's Zika Forest and in crushed suspensions of the Aedes mosquito, which is one of the vectors for Zika virus. The virus remained obscure, with a few human cases confined to Africa and Asia. There are two lineages of the Zika virus, African and Asian, with the Asian strain causing outbreaks in Micronesia in 2007 and French Polynesia in 2013-2014. From here, the virus spread to Brazil with the first report of autochthonous Zika transmission in the Americas in March 2015. The rapid advance of the virus in the Americas and its likely association with microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome make Zika an urgent public health concern. Ann Neurol 2016;80:479-489.
What are some of the effects of Zika Virus in infected individuals?
n the case of Zika virus, an accumulating body of recent evidence implicates the virus in the etiology of serious pathologies of the human nervous system, that is, the occurrence of microcephaly in neonates and Guillain-Barré syndrome in adults.
Recent progress in the treatment for pediatric malignancies using a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy has improved survival. However, late toxicities of radiotherapy are a concern in long-term survivors. A recent study suggested reduced secondary cancer and other late toxicities after proton beam therapy (PBT) due to dosimetric advantages. In this study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of PBT for pediatric patients treated in Japan. A retrospective observational study in pediatric patients who received PBT was performed. All patients aged <20 years old who underwent PBT from January 1983 to August 2014 at four sites in Japan were enrolled in the study. There were 343 patients in the study. The median follow-up periods were 22.6 months (0.4-374.3 months) for all patients and 30.6 months (0.6-374.3 months) for survivors. The estimated 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year survival rates were 82.7% (95% CI: 78.5-87.0%), 67.4% (61.7-73.2%), 61.4% (54.8-67.9%), and 58.7% (51.5-65.9%), respectively. Fifty-two events of toxicity ≥ grade 2 occurred in 43 patients. Grade 4 toxicities of myelitis, visual loss (two cases), cerebral vascular disease, and tissue necrosis occurred in five patients. This study provides preliminary results for PBT in pediatric patients in Japan. More experience and follow-up with this technique are required to establish the efficacy of PBT in this patient population.
What is the risk for secondary cancer after proton beam therapy?
A recent study suggested reduced secondary cancer and other late toxicities after proton beam therapy (PBT) due to dosimetric advantages.
Resolving the DNA-binding specificities of transcription factors (TFs) is of critical value for understanding gene regulation. Here, we present a novel, semiautomated protein-DNA interaction characterization technology, selective microfluidics-based ligand enrichment followed by sequencing (SMiLE-seq). SMiLE-seq is neither limited by DNA bait length nor biased toward strong affinity binders; it probes the DNA-binding properties of TFs over a wide affinity range in a fast and cost-effective fashion. We validated SMiLE-seq by analyzing 58 full-length human, mouse, and Drosophila TFs from distinct structural classes. All tested TFs yielded DNA-binding models with predictive power comparable to or greater than that of other in vitro assays. De novo motif discovery on all JUN-FOS heterodimers and several nuclear receptor-TF complexes provided novel insights into partner-specific heterodimer DNA-binding preferences. We also successfully analyzed the DNA-binding properties of uncharacterized human C2H2 zinc-finger proteins and validated several using ChIP-exo.
What is SMiLE-seq?
SMiLE-seq is neither limited by DNA bait length nor biased toward strong affinity binders; it probes the DNA-binding properties of TFs over a wide affinity range in a fast and cost-effective fashion.
Telomere dysfunction is linked with genome instability and premature aging. Roles for sirtuin proteins at telomeres are thought to promote lifespan in yeast and mammals. However, replicative lifespan of the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae shortens upon deletion of Rif1, a protein that limits the recruitment of the sirtuin histone deacetylase Sir2 to telomeres. Here we show that Rif1 maintains replicative lifespan by ultimately stabilizing another age-related chromosomal domain harboring the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) repeats. Deletion of Rif1 increases Sir2 localization to telomeres and the silent mating-type loci, while releasing a pool of the histone deacetylase from the intergenic spacer 1 (IGS1) of rDNA. This is accompanied by a disruption of IGS1 silent chromatin assembly and increases in aberrant recombination within rDNA repeats. Lifespan defects linked with Rif1 deletion are abolished if rDNA repeats are forcibly stabilized via deletion of the replication fork-blocking protein Fob1. In addition, Sir2 overexpression prevents Rif1 deletion from disrupting Sir2 at IGS1 and shortening lifespan. Moreover, subjecting cells lacking Rif1 to caloric restriction increases IGS1 histone deacetylation and lifespan, while uncovering novel genetic interactions between RIF1 and SIR2. Our data indicate that Rif1 maintains lifespan-sustaining levels of Sir2 at rDNA by preventing excessive recruitment of the histone deacetylase to telomeric and silent mating-type loci. As sirtuin histone deacetylases, such as Sir2 or mammalian SIRT6, each operate at multiple age-related loci, we propose that factors limiting the localization of sirtuins to certain age-related loci can promote lifespan-sustaining roles of these sirtuins elsewhere in the genome.
Has overexpression of sirtuins been reported to increase lifespan in budding yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae)?
Roles for sirtuin proteins at telomeres are thought to promote lifespan in yeast and mammals.
The bacterial RNA polymerase (RNAP) is a validated target for broad spectrum antibiotics. However, the efficiency of drugs is reduced by resistance. To discover novel RNAP inhibitors, a pharmacophore based on the alignment of described inhibitors was used for virtual screening. In an optimization process of hit compounds, novel derivatives with improved in vitro potency were discovered. Investigations concerning the molecular mechanism of RNAP inhibition reveal that they prevent the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between σ(70) and the RNAP core enzyme. Besides of reducing RNA formation, the inhibitors were shown to interfere with bacterial lipid biosynthesis. The compounds were active against Gram-positive pathogens and revealed significantly lower resistance frequencies compared to clinically used rifampicin.
What are the main benefits of pharmacophore models?
To discover novel RNAP inhibitors, a pharmacophore based on the alignment of described inhibitors was used for virtual screening. In an optimization process of hit compounds, novel derivatives with improved in vitro potency were discovered. Investigations concerning the molecular mechanism of RNAP inhibition reveal that they prevent the protein-protein interaction (PPI) between σ(70) and the RNAP core enzyme.
The S. cerevisiae Rpd3 large (Rpd3L) and small (Rpd3S) histone deacetylase (HDAC) complexes are prototypes for understanding transcriptional repression in eukaryotes [1]. The current view is that they function by deacetylating chromatin, thereby limiting accessibility of transcriptional factors to the underlying DNA. However, an Rpd3 catalytic mutant retains substantial repression capability when targeted to a promoter as a LexA fusion protein [2]. We investigated the HDAC-independent properties of the Rpd3 complexes biochemically and discovered a chaperone function, which promotes histone deposition onto DNA, and a novel activity, which prevents nucleosome eviction but not remodeling mediated by the ATP-dependent RSC complex. These HDAC-independent activities inhibit Pol II transcription on a nucleosomal template. The functions of the endogenous Rpd3 complexes can be recapitulated with recombinant Rpd3 core complex comprising Sin3, Rpd3, and Ume1. To test the hypothesis that Rpd3 contributes to chromatin stabilization in vivo, we measured histone H3 density genomewide and found that it was reduced at promoters in an Rpd3 deletion mutant but partially restored in a catalytic mutant. Importantly, the effects on H3 density are most apparent on RSC-enriched genes [3]. Our data suggest that the Rpd3 core complex could contribute to repression via a novel nucleosome stabilization function.
Is nucleosome eviction ATP-dependent?
which promotes histone deposition onto DNA, and a novel activity, which prevents nucleosome eviction but not remodeling mediated by the ATP-dependent RSC complex
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) increases the risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease as well as progression to end stage kidney failure. The relationship of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and albuminuria with clinical outcomes in the general population are revealed. This allows to present levels of GFR and microalbuminuria (MA), which increases the risk of mortality. Renal dysfunction, which revealed by the level of GFR and creatinine, can have definite role in hemodynamic changes and heart failure progression. For mentioning the interaction of cardiovascular and renal diseases the cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) term was introduced, with its classification on 5 types, according to the presence of acute/chronic heart failure and primary/secondary origination of heart and kidney injury. We study interrelations between echocardiographic data of left ventricular remodeling, MA level and degree of renal dysfunction in 115 patients with CRS. MA was measured with diagnostic strips, contractile function of left ventricle (LV) - by echocardiography and GFR was assessed by Cocroft-Gault method. The association between MA with decreased GFR and elevated creatinine levels and its connection with increased LV myocardial mass and preclinical disturbances of LV systolic function was revealed. We determined direct correlation between MA and myocardial mass index and indirect - between ejection fraction of LV and MA. Obtained data allow to mention the level of MA (25,4±5,8 ng/ml) in which there is more probability of LV contractile functional changes, which will allow early prediction and prevention of CRS progression and pathogenetically approved pharmacotherapy organization in this category patients.
List the types of the Cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) according to the five-part classification system.
For mentioning the interaction of cardiovascular and renal diseases the cardiorenal syndrome (CRS) term was introduced, with its classification on 5 types, according to the presence of acute/chronic heart failure and primary/secondary origination of heart and kidney injury
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the skin and the hair with involvement of the hair shaft and the pilosebaceous unit. It may be the most common of all cutaneous mycoses in children. Tinea capitis can be inflammatory or noninflammatory. It is thought that humoral and cell-mediated immunities play a role in the formation of the clinical types of the disease. We studied twelve patients with acute inflammatory disease, four patients with chronic non-inflammatory disease, and one patient with a black-dot variant of tinea capitis. The composition of inflammatory infiltrates present in lesional skin was analyzed by antibodies to T cells (CD3) and B cells (CD20). Anti-CD3 revealed large numbers of T cells in twelve patients with acute, inflammatory dermatophytosis, whereas anti-CD20 revealed marked infiltrates of both B and T cells in all patients with chronic, non-inflammatory dermatophytosis. As a result, we thought that cell-mediated immunity might play a role in the acute, inflammatory type of tinea capitis and that humoral immunity might do so in the chronic, non-inflammatory type of tinea capitis.
What disease is tinea ?
Tinea capitis is a fungal infection of the skin and the hair with involvement of the hair shaft and the pilosebaceous unit.
Ixazomib is the first investigational oral proteasome inhibitor to be studied clinically. In this phase 1 trial, 60 patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (median of 4 prior lines of therapy; bortezomib, lenalidomide, thalidomide, and carfilzomib/marizomib in 88%, 88%, 62%, and 5%, respectively) received single-agent ixazomib 0.24 to 2.23 mg/m(2) (days 1, 4, 8, 11; 21-day cycles). Two dose-limiting toxicities (grade 3 rash; grade 4 thrombocytopenia) occurred at 2.23 mg/m(2). The maximum tolerated dose was 2.0 mg/m(2), which 40 patients received in 4 expansion cohorts. Patients received a median of 4 cycles (range, 1-39); 18% received ≥12 cycles. Eighty-eight percent had drug-related adverse events, including nausea (42%), thrombocytopenia (42%), fatigue (40%), and rash (40%); drug-related grade ≥3 events included thrombocytopenia (37%) and neutropenia (17%). Grade 1/2 drug-related peripheral neuropathy occurred in 12% (no grade ≥3). Two patients died on the study (both considered unrelated to treatment). The terminal half-life of ixazomib was 3.3 to 7.4 days; plasma exposure increased proportionally with dose (0.48-2.23 mg/m(2)). Among 55 response-evaluable patients, 15% achieved partial response or better (76% stable disease or better). These findings have informed the subsequent clinical development of ixazomib in multiple myeloma. This trial was registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00932698.
Which type of myeloma is ixazomib being evaluated for?
Ixazomib is the first investigational oral proteasome inhibitor to be studied clinically. In this phase 1 trial, 60 patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (median of 4 prior lines of therapy; bortezomib, lenalidomide, thalidomide, and carfilzomib/marizomib in 88%, 88%, 62%, and 5%, respectively) received single-agent ixazomib 0.24 to 2.23 mg/m(2) (days 1, 4, 8, 11; 21-day cycles).
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a common recessive disorder characterized by the loss of lower motor neurons in the spinal cord. The disease has been classified into three types based on age of onset and severity. SMA I-III all map to chromosome 5q13 (refs 2,3), and nearly all patients display deletions or gene conversions of the survival motor neuron (SMN1) gene. Some correlation has been established between SMN protein levels and disease course; nevertheless, the genetic basis for SMA phenotypic variability remains unclear, and it has been postulated that the loss of an additional modifying factor contributes to the severity of type I SMA. Using comparative genomics to screen for such a factor among evolutionarily conserved sequences between mouse and human, we have identified a novel transcript, H4F5, which lies closer to SMN1 than any previously identified gene in the region. A multi-copy microsatellite marker that is deleted in more than 90% of type I SMA chromosomes is embedded in an intron of this gene, indicating that H4F5 is also highly deleted in type I SMA chromosomes, and thus is a candidate phenotypic modifier for SMA.
Which is the genetic basis of Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)?
Some correlation has been established between SMN protein levels and disease course; nevertheless, the genetic basis for SMA phenotypic variability remains unclear, and it has been postulated that the loss of an additional modifying factor contributes to the severity of type I SMA
Three-dimensional pharmacophore hypothesis was established based on a set of known DPP-IV inhibitor using PharmaGist software program understanding the essential structural features for DPP-IV inhibitor. The various marketed or under developmental status, potential gliptins have been opted to build a pharmacophore model, e.g. Sitagliptin (MK- 0431), Saxagliptin, Melogliptin, Linagliptin (BI-1356), Dutogliptin, Carmegliptin, Alogliptin and Vildagliptin (LAF237). PharmaGist web based program is employed for pharmacophore development. Four points pharmacophore with the hydrogen bond acceptor (A), hydrophobic group (H), Spatial Features and aromatic rings (R) have been considered to develop pharmacophoric features by PharmaGist program. The best pharmacophore model bearing the Score 16.971, has been opted to screen on ZincPharmer database to derive the novel potential anti-diabetic ligands. The best pharmacophore bear various Pharmacophore features, including General Features 3, Spatial Features 1, Aromatic 1 and Acceptors 2. The PharmaGist employed algorithm to identify the best pharmacophores by computing multiple flexible alignments between the input ligands. The multiple alignments are generated by combining alignments pair-wise between one of the gliptin input ligands, which acts as pivot and the other gliptin as ligand. The resulting multiple alignments reveal spatial arrangements of consensus features shared by different subsets of input ligands. The best pharmacophore model has been derived using both pair-wise and multiple alignment methods, which have been weighted in Pharmacophore Generation process. The highest-scoring pharmacophore model has been selected as potential pharmacophore model. In conclusion, 3D structure search has been performed on the "ZincPharmer Database" to identify potential compounds that have been matched with the proposed pharmacophoric features. The 3D ZincPharmer Database has been matched with various thousands of Ligands hits. Those matches were screened through the RMSD and max hits per molecule. The physicochemical properties of various "ZincPharmer Database" screened ligands have been calculated by PaDELDescriptor software. The all "ZincPharmer Database" screened ligands have been filtered based on the Lipinski's rule-of-five criteria (i.e. Molecular Weight < 500, H-bond acceptor ≤ 10, H-bond donor ≤ 5, Log P ≤ 5) and were subjected to molecular docking studies to get the potential antidiabetic ligands. We have found various substituted as potential antidiabetic ligands, which can be used for further development of antidiabetic agents. In the present research work, we have covered rational of DPP-IV inhibitor based on Ligand-Based Pharmacophore detection, which is validated via the Docking interaction studies as well as Maximal Common Substructure (MCS).
What are 'vildagliptin', 'sitagliptin', 'saxagliptin', 'alogliptin', 'linagliptin', and 'dutogliptin'?
Sitagliptin (MK- 0431), Saxagliptin, Melogliptin, Linagliptin (BI-1356), Dutogliptin, Carmegliptin, Alogliptin and Vildagliptin (LAF237).
We show evidence that mitochondria transfer from Jurkat cells to MSCs, which is mediated by cell adhesion, may be a potential therapeutic target for T-ALL treatment.
Can mitochondria transfer from cell to cell?
We show evidence that mitochondria transfer from Jurkat cells to MSCs, which is mediated by cell adhesion
Gfi-1 and Gfi-1b are homologous transcriptional repressors involved in diverse developmental contexts, including hematopoiesis and oncogenesis. Transcriptional repression by Gfi proteins requires the conserved SNAG domain. To elucidate the function of Gfi proteins, we purified Gfi-1b complexes and identified interacting proteins. Prominent among these is the corepressor CoREST, the histone demethylase LSD1, and HDACs 1 and 2. CoREST and LSD1 associate with Gfi-1/1b via the SNAG repression domain. Gfi-1b further recruits these cofactors to the majority of target gene promoters in vivo. Inhibition of CoREST and LSD1 perturbs differentiation of erythroid, megakaryocytic, and granulocytic cells as well as primary erythroid progenitors. LSD1 depletion derepresses Gfi targets in lineage-specific patterns, accompanied by enhanced histone 3 lysine 4 methylation at the respective promoters. Overall, we show that chromatin regulatory proteins CoREST and LSD1 mediate transcriptional repression by Gfi proteins. Lineage-restricted deployment of these cofactors through interaction with Gfi proteins controls hematopoietic differentiation.
Is Lysine-specific demethylase 1 (LSD1) a critical regulator of hematopoiesis?
Inhibition of CoREST and LSD1 perturbs differentiation of erythroid, megakaryocytic, and granulocytic cells as well as primary erythroid progenitors
Aspergillus terreus is successfully used for industrial production of itaconic acid. The acid is formed from cis-aconitate, an intermediate of the tricarboxylic (TCA) cycle, by catalytic action of cis-aconitate decarboxylase. It could be assumed that strong anaplerotic reactions that replenish the pool of the TCA cycle intermediates would enhance the synthesis and excretion rate of itaconic acid. In the phylogenetic close relative Aspergillus niger, upregulated metabolic flux through glycolysis has been described that acted as a strong anaplerotic reaction. Deregulated glycolytic flux was caused by posttranslational modification of 6-phosphofructo-1-kinase (PFK1) that resulted in formation of a highly active, citrate inhibition-resistant shorter form of the enzyme. In order to avoid complex posttranslational modification, the native A. niger pfkA gene has been modified to encode for an active shorter PFK1 fragment. By the insertion of the modified A. niger pfkA genes into the A. terreus strain, increased specific productivities of itaconic acid and final yields were documented by transformants in respect to the parental strain. On the other hand, growth rate of all transformants remained suppressed which is due to the low initial pH value of the medium, one of the prerequisites for the accumulation of itaconic acid by A. terreus mycelium.
Which species may be used for the biotechnological production of itaconic acid?
Aspergillus terreus is successfully used for industrial production of itaconic acid
The mutation RyR2-V2475F is phenotypically strong among other CPVT mutations and produces heterogeneous mechanisms of RyR2 dysfunction. In living mice, this mutation appears too severe to be harbored in all RyR2 channels but remains undetected under basal conditions if expressed at relatively low levels. β-adrenergic stimulation breaks the delicate Ca(2+) equilibrium of RyR2-V2475F(+/-) hearts and triggers life-threatening arrhythmias.
Which mutations in the cardiac isoform of the ryanodine receptor (RyR2) have been found to be related to CPVT?
The mutation RyR2-V2475F is phenotypically strong among other CPVT mutations and produces heterogeneous mechanisms of RyR2 dysfunction.
Mutations in the HPRT gene cause a spectrum of diseases that ranges from hyperuricemia alone to hyperuricemia with profound neurological and behavioral dysfunction. The extreme phenotype is termed Lesch-Nyhan syndrome. In 271 cases in which the germinal HPRT mutation has been characterized, 218 different mutations have been found. Of these, 34 (13%) are large- (macro-) deletions of one exon or greater and four (2%) are partial gene duplications. The deletion breakpoint junctions have been defined for only three of the 34 macro-deletions. The molecular basis of two of the four duplications has been defined. We report here the breakpoint junctions for three new deletion mutations, encompassing exons 4-8 (20033bp), exons 4 and 5 (13307bp) and exons 5 and 6 (9454bp), respectively. The deletion breakpoints were defined by a combination of long polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifications, and conventional PCR and DNA sequencing. All three deletions are the result of non-homologous recombinations. A fourth mutation, a duplication of exons 2 and 3, is the result of an Alu-mediated homologous recombination between identical 19bp sequences in introns 3 and 1. In toto, two of three germinal HPRT duplication mutations appear to have been caused by Alu-mediated homologous recombination, while only one of six deletion mutations appears to have resulted from this type of recombination mechanism. The other five deletion mutations resulted from non-homologous recombination. With this admittedly limited number of characterized macro-mutations, Alu-mediated unequal homologous recombinations account for at least 8% (3 of 38) of the macro-alterations and 1% (3 of 271) of the total HPRT germinal mutations.
How are deletion breakpoints defined?
The deletion breakpoints were defined by a combination of long polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifications, and conventional PCR and DNA sequencing.
The SR/CR mouse phenotype, first described in 1999 in BALB/c and later bred into C57BL/6 mice, is resistant to cancer formation following high doses of cancer cells administered intraperitoneally. The tumor cell targeting and destruction mechanisms have not been identified. By fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis, the immune response of SR/CR mice after intraperitoneal injection of cancer cells was investigated and compared with parent strain mice. A massive influx of leukocytes into the peritoneal cavity was found. A large fraction of these leukocytes were polymorphonuclear granulocytes, macrophages and natural killer cells. A relative decrease in influx of B-cells compared with controls was demonstrated. Increased proportions of leukocytes belonging to the innate immune system were also demonstrated in splenocytes of SR/CR mice. Cytospins of peritoneal fluid from SR/CR mice after cancer cell injection showed formations of immune cells morphologically resembling polymorphonuclear granulocytes and macrophages adjoining the cancer cells. The results point to the potential involvement of innate immune cells in cancer immunology. Our data support migration of polymorphonuclear granulocytes, macrophages and NK cells into the peritoneum of the SR/CR mouse in response to intraperitoneal injection of S180 cancer cells. The cell composition of spleens of SR/CR mice reflected the differential regulation of the innate immune cells in peritoneal exudates. Both peritoneal exudates and the spleens of SR/CR mice contained decreased proportions of B-cells compared with BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice. We reproduce important aspects of previous published data and further extend them by showing differentially regulated populations of splenocytes including B-lymphocytes in SR/CR mice compared with parent strain controls. Importantly, this differentially regulated immune response of SR/CR mice could not be found in response to challenge with the lymphoma cell line EL-4.
What is the function of CR elements in B-cells?
The SR/CR mouse phenotype, first described in 1999 in BALB/c and later bred into C57BL/6 mice, is resistant to cancer formation following high doses of cancer cells administered intraperitoneally.
Fbw7 is a member of F-box family proteins, which constitute one subunit of Skp1, Cul1, and F-box protein (SCF) ubiquitin ligase complex. SCF(Fbw7) targets a set of well-known oncoproteins, including c-Myc, cyclin E, Notch, c-Jun, and Mcl-1, for ubiquitylation and degradation. Fbw7 provides specificity of the ubiquitylation of these substrate proteins via recognition of a consensus phosphorylated degron. Through regulation of several important proteins, Fbw7 controls diverse cellular processes, including cell-cycle progression, cell proliferation, differentiation, DNA damage response, maintenance of genomic stability, and neural cell stemness. As reduced Fbw7 expression level and loss-of-function mutations are found in a wide range of human cancers, Fbw7 is generally considered as a tumor suppressor. However, the exact mechanisms underlying Fbw7-induced tumor suppression is unclear. This review focuses on regulation network, biological functions, and genetic alteration of Fbw7 in connection with its role in cancer development.
Is protein Fbw7 a SCF type of E3 ubiquitin ligase?
Fbw7 is a member of F-box family proteins, which constitute one subunit of Skp1, Cul1, and F-box protein (SCF) ubiquitin ligase complex.
Phosphorylation of many aminoacyl tRNA synthetases (AARSs) has been recognized for decades, but the contribution of post-translational modification to their primary role in tRNA charging and decryption of genetic code remains unclear. In contrast, phosphorylation is essential for performance of diverse noncanonical functions of AARSs unrelated to protein synthesis. Phosphorylation of glutamyl-prolyl tRNA synthetase (EPRS) has been investigated extensively in our laboratory for more than a decade, and has served as an archetype for studies of other AARSs. EPRS is a constituent of the IFN-γ-activated inhibitor of translation (GAIT) complex that directs transcript-selective translational control in myeloid cells. Stimulus-dependent phosphorylation of EPRS is essential for its release from the parental multi-aminoacyl tRNA synthetase complex (MSC), for binding to other GAIT complex proteins, and for regulating the binding to target mRNAs. Importantly, phosphorylation is the common driving force for the context- and stimulus-dependent release, and non-canonical activity, of other AARSs residing in the MSC, for example, lysyl tRNA synthetase (KARS). Here, we describe the concepts and experimental methodologies we have used to investigate the influence of phosphorylation on the structure and function of EPRS. We suggest that application of these approaches will help to identify new functional phosphorylation event(s) in other AARSs and elucidate their possible roles in noncanonical activities.
Is the enzyme EPRS phosphorylated?
Phosphorylation of glutamyl-prolyl tRNA synthetase (EPRS) has been investigated extensively in our laboratory for more than a decade, and has served as an archetype for studies of other AARSs.
An elevated serum level of LDL cholesterol is a well-known risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the role of elevated triglyceride levels is debated. Controversies regarding hypertriglyceridaemia as an independent risk factor for CVD have occurred partly because elevated triglyceride levels are often a component of atherogenic dyslipidaemia - they are associated with decreased levels of HDL cholesterol and increased levels of small dense LDL particles, which are highly atherogenic. Findings from several large studies indicate that elevated levels of triglycerides (either fasting or nonfasting) or, more specifically, triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and their remnants, are independently associated with increased risk of CVD. Possible mechanisms for this association include excessive free fatty acid release, production of proinflammatory cytokines, coagulation factors, and impairment of fibrinolysis. Therapeutic targeting of hypertriglyceridaemia could, therefore, reduce CVD and cardiovascular events, beyond the reduction achieved by LDL-cholesterol lowering. Elevated triglyceride levels are reduced with lifestyle interventions and fibrates, which can be combined with omega-3 fatty acids. Some new drugs are on the horizon, such as volanesorsen (which targets apolipoprotein C-III), pemafibrate, and others. However, CVD outcome studies with triglyceride-lowering agents have produced inconsistent results, meaning that no convincing evidence is available that lowering triglycerides by any approach can reduce mortality.
Describe mechanism of action of volanesorsen.
Some new drugs are on the horizon, such as volanesorsen (which targets apolipoprotein C-III), pemafibrate, and others.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) induces primary and secondary damage in both the endothelium and the brain parenchyma. While neurons die quickly by necrosis, a vicious cycle of secondary injury in endothelial cells exacerbates the initial injury. Thyroid hormones are reported to be decreased in patients with brain injury. Controlled cortical impact injury (CCI) is a widely used, clinically relevant model of TBI. Here, using CCI in adult male mice, we set to determine whether 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3) attenuates posttraumatic neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation in an experimental model of TBI. Treatment with T3 (1.2μg/100g body weight, i.p.) 1h after TBI resulted in a significant improvement in motor and cognitive recovery after CCI, as well as in marked reduction of lesion volumes. Mouse model for brain injury showed reactive astrocytes with increased glial fibrillary acidic protein, and formation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Western blot analysis revealed the ability of T3 to reduce brain trauma through modulation of cytoplasmic-nuclear shuttling of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Twenty-four hours after brain trauma, T3-treated mice also showed significantly lower number of TUNEL(+) apoptotic neurons and curtailed induction of Bax, compared to vehicle control. In addition, T3 significantly enhanced the post-TBI expression of the neuroprotective neurotrophins (BDNF and GDNF) compared to vehicle. Our data provide an additional mechanism for the anti-inflammatory effects of thyroid hormone with critical implications in immunopathology at the cross-roads of the immune-endocrine circuits.
Is there evidence to suggest that triiodothyronine has neuroprotective properties in traumatic brain injury?
Western blot analysis revealed the ability of T3 to reduce brain trauma through modulation of cytoplasmic-nuclear shuttling of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). Twenty-four hours after brain trauma, T3-treated mice also showed significantly lower number of TUNEL(+) apoptotic neurons and curtailed induction of Bax, compared to vehicle control. In addition, T3 significantly enhanced the post-TBI expression of the neuroprotective neurotrophins (BDNF and GDNF) compared to vehicle.
G-Quadruplex, a unique secondary structure in nucleic acids found throughout human genome, elicited widespread interest in the field of therapeutic research. Being present in key regulatory regions of oncogenes, RNAs and telomere, G-Quadruplex structure regulates transcription, translation, splicing, etc. Changes in its structure and stability leads to differential expression of oncogenes causing cancer. Thus, targeting G-Quadruplex structures with small molecules/other biologics has shown elevated research interest. Covering previous reports, in this review, we try to enlighten the facts on the structural diversity in G-Quadruplex ligands aiming to provide newer insights to design first-in-class drugs for the next-generation cancer treatment.
What are the functions of DNA and RNA G-quadruplexes?
G-Quadruplex, a unique secondary structure in nucleic acids found throughout human genome, elicited widespread interest in the field of therapeutic research. Being present in key regulatory regions of oncogenes, RNAs and telomere, G-Quadruplex structure regulates transcription, translation, splicing, etc.
To classify the cerebral cavernous malformations and to investigate the natural history of cavernous malformations according to the classification, 41 patients with 61 cavernous malformations (40 cavernous malformations from 22 patients treated with gamma knife surgery) were regularly followed up using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging for a mean period of 25.5 months in treated cavernous malformations and 20.7 months in untreated cavernous malformations, respectively. Cavernous malformations were classified into four types: type I, extralesional gross hemorrhage beyond cavernous malformation; type II, mixture of subacute and chronic hemorrhage; type III, area of hemosiderin with small central core; and type IV, area of hemosiderin deposition without central core. Follow-up MR images were analyzed to evaluate changes in size, signal intensity, rebleeding, and perilesional adverse reaction of irradiation. A total of 61 cavernous malformations including 17 in type I, 23 in type II, 10 in type III, and 11 in type IV showed usual degradation of blood product in 22 cavernous malformations, no change in shape and signal intensity in 31 cavernous malformations, and eight cavernous malformations with rebleedings in the serial MR images. In these eight cavernous malformations with rebleedings, six occurred in type II and two in type III, but none in type I or IV. Rebleedings were more frequent in type II than in other types (p = 0.044). Adverse reaction of irradiation was observed in five of 22 patients treated with gamma knife surgery. Although most cerebral cavernous malformations showed evolution of hemorrhage or no change in size or shape on follow-up MR images, cerebral cavernous malformations represented as mixture of subacute and chronic hemorrhage with hemosiderin rim (type II) have a higher frequency to rebleed than other types of cerebral cavernous malformations. Cerebral cavernous malformations represented as hemosiderin deposition without central core (type IV) have a lower tendency to rebleed than other types and do not need any treatment. Most of the adverse reaction of irradiation after gamma knife surgery around cavernous malformations are transient findings and are considered to be perilesional edema.
What is Cerebral Cavernous Malformation?
Although most cerebral cavernous malformations showed evolution of hemorrhage or no change in size or shape on follow-up MR images, cerebral cavernous malformations represented as mixture of subacute and chronic hemorrhage with hemosiderin rim (type II) have a higher frequency to rebleed than other types of cerebral cavernous malformations.
Lipid-lowering therapy is one major cornerstone of medical treatment of cardiovascular disease in order to modulate atherosclerosis. Statins, ezetimibe and novel PCSK9-inhibitors are already recommended in current guidelines and were shown to improve lipid profiles and have positive effects on the rate of ischemic events and cardiovascular mortality. Recent studies suggest that the concept of "The lower the better" might be valid at least regarding low density lipoproteins. In addition, lowering lipoprotein (a) still displays a major challenge in lipid therapy. Furthermore, also lowering triglycerides seems to improve cardiovascular outcome. Regarding triglycerides, icosapent ethyl, a polyunsaturated fatty acid recently attracted attention showing cardiovascular risk reduction due to triglyceride lowering. Therefore, new therapeutic strategies and drug classes are eagerly awaited. Targeting LDL, bempedoic acid and the siRNA inclisiran provide promising results. Moreover, regarding TG a monoclonal antibody called evinacumab and an antisense-oligonucleotide against ANGPTL3 showed effective TG-lowering. At least, using antisense-oligonucleotides against ApoC-III and Lp(a) resulted in promising outcomes. In this review, current and future options for lipid management are presented depending on different drug classes.
What is the mechanism of action of Evinacumab?
Moreover, regarding TG a monoclonal antibody called evinacumab and an antisense-oligonucleotide against ANGPTL3 showed effective TG-lowering.
Brain tumors encompass a heterogeneous group of malignant tumors with variable histopathology, aggressiveness, clinical outcome and prognosis. Current gene expression profiling studies indicate interplay of genetic and epigenetic alterations in their pathobiology. A central molecular event underlying epigenetics is the alteration of chromatin structure by post-translational modifications of DNA and histones as well as nucleosome repositioning. Dynamic remodeling of the fundamental nucleosomal structure of chromatin or covalent histone marks located in core histones regulate main cellular processes including DNA methylation, replication, DNA-damage repair as well as gene expression. Deregulation of these processes has been linked to tumor suppressor gene silencing, cancer initiation and progression. The reversible nature of deregulated chromatin structure by DNA methylation and histone deacetylation inhibitors, leading to re-expression of tumor suppressor genes, makes chromatin-remodeling pathways as promising therapeutic targets. In fact, a considerable number of these inhibitors are being tested today either alone or in combination with other agents or conventional treatments in the management of brain tumors with considerable success. In this review, we focus on the mechanisms underpinning deregulated chromatin remodeling in brain tumors, discuss their potential clinical implications and highlight the advances toward new therapeutic strategies.
How histone deacetylation causes transcriptional gene silencing?
The reversible nature of deregulated chromatin structure by DNA methylation and histone deacetylation inhibitors, leading to re-expression of tumor suppressor genes, makes chromatin-remodeling pathways as promising therapeutic targets.
Fibroblasts are the predominant cell type in the cardiac interstitium. As the main matrix-producing cells in the adult mammalian heart, fibroblasts maintain the integrity of the extracellular matrix network, thus preserving geometry and function. Following myocardial infarction fibroblasts undergo dynamic phenotypic alterations and direct the reparative response. Due to their strategic location, cardiac fibroblasts serve as sentinel cells that sense injury and activate the inflammasome secreting cytokines and chemokines. During the proliferative phase of healing, infarct fibroblasts undergo myofibroblast transdifferentiation forming stress fibers and expressing contractile proteins (such as α-smooth muscle actin). Mechanical stress, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/Smad3 signaling and alterations in the composition of the extracellular matrix induce acquisition of the myofibroblast phenotype. In the highly cellular and growth factor-rich environment of the infarct, activated myofibroblasts produce matrix proteins, proteases and their inhibitors regulating matrix metabolism. As the infarct matures, "stress-shielding" of myofibroblasts by the cross-linked matrix and growth factor withdrawal may induce quiescence and ultimately cause apoptotic death. Because of their critical role in post-infarction cardiac remodeling, fibroblasts are promising therapeutic targets following myocardial infarction. However, the complexity of fibroblast functions and the pathophysiologic heterogeneity of post-infarction remodeling in the clinical context discourage oversimplified approaches in clinical translation. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: Cardiomyocyte Biology: Cardiac Pathways of Differentiation, Metabolism and Contraction.
what is the role of TGFbeta in cardiac regeneration after myocardial injury?
During the proliferative phase of healing, infarct fibroblasts undergo myofibroblast transdifferentiation forming stress fibers and expressing contractile proteins (such as α-smooth muscle actin). Mechanical stress, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β/Smad3 signaling and alterations in the composition of the extracellular matrix induce acquisition of the myofibroblast phenotype.
Mutations of tumor suppressor genes, of the mismatch DNA repair system, and of the TGF-beta-II-receptor are the main causes for a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Among mutations of the Ape gene, which characterize the clinical manifestation of the familial polyposis (FAP), point mutations are dominating which create new stop codons or arise from deletions or insertions of nucleotides causing frame shifts. Because the binding site of beta-catenin is localized in the C-terminus of the Ape protein, disturbances result in the cellular signal transfer from its loss. Consequently, the interactions of the usually formed Ape-beta-catenin complex with the cytoskeleton and the cadherin system in the plasma membrane as well as the translocation of beta-catenin into the nucleus cannot be realized. Mutations in the genes of the mismatch DNA repair system and of the TGF-beta-II-receptor, the main defects of the HNPCC (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer), are exclusively identified in sequences of microsatellites. Because the majority of Apc gene mutations is also localized in repetitive motifs even in CpG islands primary disturbances are to postulate in the methylation pattern of the genes producing germline and somatic mutations. Generally, complexly connected reactions are involved in this cascade of colorectal cancer genesis. This fact explains the relatively late clinical manifestation of the disease and offers the possibility to identify carriers with an increased risk of colorectal cancer development in order to integrate them into a programme of control and preventive medicine. Beside the known treatment by surgery and cytostatics, inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis gain therapeutic significance. Cancerogenesis can be efficiently suppressed by inhibition of the COX-2-induction (cyclo-oxygenase-2). There is a lack of clinical experience for a decision whether a high intraluminal level of butyrate in the large intestine can delay colorectal carcinogenesis.
Which DNA repair system is involved in HNPCC?
Mutations in the genes of the mismatch DNA repair system and of the TGF-beta-II-receptor, the main defects of the HNPCC (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer), are exclusively identified in sequences of microsatellites.
Viliuisk encephalomyelitis is an acute, often fatal, meningoencephalitis that tends to develop into a prolonged chronically progressive panencephalitis. Clinical, neuropathologic, and epidemiologic data argue for an infectious cause, although multiple attempts at pathogen isolation have been unsuccessful. To assess mechanisms of disease transmission and spread, we studied 6 multiplex families. Secondary cases occurred among genetically related and unrelated persons in a setting of prolonged intrahousehold contact with a patient manifesting the disease. Transmission to unrelated persons was documented in a densely populated region around the city of Yakutsk in which Viliuisk encephalomyelitis had not been previously known. Initially identified in a small Yakut-Evenk population on the Viliui River of eastern Siberia, the disease subsequently spread through human contacts to new geographic areas, thus characterizing Viliuisk encephalomyelitis as an emerging infectious disease.
Viliuisk encephalomyelitis is diagnosed in which geographical area?
Initially identified in a small Yakut-Evenk population on the Viliui River of eastern Siberia, the disease subsequently spread through human contacts to new geographic areas, thus characterizing Viliuisk encephalomyelitis as an emerging infectious disease.
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is one of the most common human genetic abnormalities, and it has a significant prevalence in the male population (X chromosome linked). The purpose of this study was to estimate the frequency of impaired fasting glucose and diabetes among G6PD-deficient persons in Manaus, Brazil, an area in the Western Brazilian Amazon to which malaria is endemic. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase-deficient males had more impaired fasting glucose and diabetes. This feature could be used as a screening tool for G6PD-deficient persons who are unable to use primaquine for the radical cure of Plasmodium vivax malaria.
What is the inheritance of the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency?
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is one of the most common human genetic abnormalities, and it has a significant prevalence in the male population (X chromosome linked).
Monoclonal antibody biologic therapies, introduced nearly 20 years ago, revolutionized the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and are now well established as the most effective agents available. As the first of these biologic agents starts to come off patent, biosimilar agents have emerged as alternatives to originator drugs. The unique drug development and manufacturing processes involved in the creation of biologic agents pose distinct regulatory challenges compared to generic formulations of conventional medications. Reductions in medication costs have been proposed to be a major benefit of biosimilar therapies; however, there are concerns regarding the adequacy of the existing regulatory process and data requirements for biosimilar therapy approval, as well as the true bioequivalence of these agents. Infliximab biosimilars for the treatment of IBD have been available in Europe and Asia for a few years and are expected to become available in the United States within the next 1 to 2 years. This article reviews biosimilar therapies and the current data with respect to IBD.
List 2 approved drug treatments for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
Infliximab biosimilars for the treatment of IBD have been available in Europe and Asia for a few years and are expected to become available in the United States within the next 1 to 2 years
A histological analysis was conducted in 138 female breast cancer patients, and the results were classified in accordance with "Histological Typing of Breast Tumours" (WHO, Geneva 1981). Since about half of these tumors showed more than one histological type of carcinoma, a simplified classification system with four groups was adopted. When patients were categorized according to the number and degree of kinship of their relatives with breast cancer, no specific association with the histological types was found. Familial tumors also encompassed a wide spectrum of histopathologic diagnoses. This suggests the absence of a histological marker in familial breast cancer. Pedigrees of all the patients were then analyzed, special emphasis being placed on relatives suffering from the same and other malignancies. It was found that 13.8% of the probands had at least one first-degree relative with breast cancer and that, compared with the tumor spectra in the male and female population, there was a significantly higher number of esophageal carcinomas in the fathers, of stomach cancers in the uncles and grandfathers, of brain tumors in the mothers, and of sarcomas in the brothers. An accumulation of the same tumors, especially stomach cancer and tumors related to the SBLA syndrome, was observed in families of index patients with tubular or medullary breast cancer. The SBLA syndrome is a complex familial cancer syndrome characterized by a proclivity to Sarcomas, Breast cancers, brain tumors, Lung and laryngeal cancers, leukemia, and Adrenocortical carcinomas.
List the cancers that are associated with SBLA syndrome.
The SBLA syndrome is a complex familial cancer syndrome characterized by a proclivity to Sarcomas, Breast cancers, brain tumors, Lung and laryngeal cancers, leukemia, and Adrenocortical carcinomas.
The prevalence of MAC lung infection in two inner city hospitals was four times higher than that of TB. The indication for treatment of MAC infection should also rely heavily on clinical and radiological evidence when there is only one positive sputum culture. The diagnosis was considered only when the admitting physician was a pulmonologist. Most patients with combined infection were clinically consistent with MTB and responded to anti MTB treatment alone. Treatment with anti-MAC therapy improved PF in those patients whose PF was abnormal to begin with.
Is Mycobacterium avium less susceptible to antibiotics than Mycobacterium tuberculosis?
Most patients with combined infection were clinically consistent with MTB and responded to anti MTB treatment alone.
The Saccharomyces cerevisiae Forkhead Box (FOX) proteins, Fkh1 and Fkh2, regulate diverse cellular processes including transcription, long-range DNA interactions during homologous recombination, and replication origin timing and long-range origin clustering. We hypothesized that, as stimulators of early origin activation, Fkh1 and Fkh2 abundance limits the rate of origin activation genome-wide. Existing methods, however, are not well-suited to quantitative, genome-wide measurements of origin firing between strains and conditions. To overcome this limitation, we developed qBrdU-seq, a quantitative method for BrdU incorporation analysis of replication dynamics, and applied it to show that overexpression of Fkh1 and Fkh2 advances the initiation timing of many origins throughout the genome resulting in a higher total level of origin initiations in early S phase. The higher initiation rate is accompanied by slower replication fork progression, thereby maintaining a normal length of S phase without causing detectable Rad53 checkpoint kinase activation. The advancement of origin firing time, including that of origins in heterochromatic domains, was established in late G1 phase, indicating that origin timing can be reset subsequently to origin licensing. These results provide novel insights into the mechanisms of origin timing regulation by identifying Fkh1 and Fkh2 as rate-limiting factors for origin firing that determine the ability of replication origins to accrue limiting factors and have the potential to reprogram replication timing late in G1 phase.
Which cellular function is associated with transcription factors forkhead 1 and 2 (Fkh1 and Fkh2)?
The Saccharomyces cerevisiae Forkhead Box (FOX) proteins, Fkh1 and Fkh2, regulate diverse cellular processes including transcription, long-range DNA interactions during homologous recombination, and replication origin timing and long-range origin clustering.
Preconditioning describes the ischemic stimulus that triggers an endogenous, neuroprotective response that protects the brain during a subsequent severe ischemic injury, a phenomenon known as 'tolerance'. Ischemic tolerance requires new protein synthesis, leads to genomic reprogramming of the brain's response to subsequent ischemia, and is transient. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate posttranscriptional gene expression by exerting direct effects on messenger RNA (mRNA) translation. We examined miRNA expression in mouse cortex in response to preconditioning, ischemic injury, and tolerance. The results of our microarray analysis revealed that miRNA expression is consistently altered within each group, but that preconditioning was the foremost regulator of miRNAs. Our bioinformatic analysis results predicted that preconditioning-regulated miRNAs most prominently target mRNAs that encode transcriptional regulators; methyl-CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) was the most prominent target. No studies have linked MeCP2 to preconditioning or tolerance, yet miR-132, which regulates MeCP2 expression, is decreased in preconditioned cortex. Downregulation of miR-132 is consistent with our finding that preconditioning ischemia induces a rapid increase in MeCP2 protein, but not mRNA, in mouse cortex. These studies reveal that ischemic preconditioning regulates expression of miRNAs and their predicted targets in mouse brain cortex, and further suggest that miRNAs and MeCP2 could serve as effectors of ischemic preconditioning-induced tolerance.
Is the microRNA 132 (miR-132) involved in brain pathologies?
Downregulation of miR-132 is consistent with our finding that preconditioning ischemia induces a rapid increase in MeCP2 protein, but not mRNA, in mouse cortex. These studies reveal that ischemic preconditioning regulates expression of miRNAs and their predicted targets in mouse brain cortex, and further suggest that miRNAs and MeCP2 could serve as effectors of ischemic preconditioning-induced tolerance.
Frequent mutations in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 and 2 (IDH1 and IDH2) and the promoter of telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) represent two significant discoveries in glioma genomics. Understanding the degree to which these two mutations co-occur or occur exclusively of one another in glioma subtypes presents a unique opportunity to guide glioma classification and prognosis. We analyzed the relationship between overall survival (OS) and the presence of IDH1/2 and TERT promoter mutations in a panel of 473 adult gliomas. We hypothesized and show that genetic signatures capable of distinguishing among several types of gliomas could be established providing clinically relevant information that can serve as an adjunct to histopathological diagnosis. We found that mutations in the TERT promoter occurred in 74.2% of glioblastomas (GBM), but occurred in a minority of Grade II-III astrocytomas (18.2%). In contrast, IDH1/2 mutations were observed in 78.4% of Grade II-III astrocytomas, but were uncommon in primary GBM. In oligodendrogliomas, TERT promoter and IDH1/2 mutations co-occurred in 79% of cases. Patients whose Grade III-IV gliomas exhibit TERT promoter mutations alone predominately have primary GBMs associated with poor median OS (11.5 months). Patients whose Grade III-IV gliomas exhibit IDH1/2 mutations alone predominately have astrocytic morphologies and exhibit a median OS of 57 months while patients whose tumors exhibit both TERT promoter and IDH1/2 mutations predominately exhibit oligodendroglial morphologies and exhibit median OS of 125 months. Analyzing gliomas based on their genetic signatures allows for the stratification of these patients into distinct cohorts, with unique prognosis and survival.
Is there an association between TERT promoter mutation and survival of glioma patients?
Patients whose Grade III-IV gliomas exhibit TERT promoter mutations alone predominately have primary GBMs associated with poor median OS (11.5 months). Patients whose Grade III-IV gliomas exhibit IDH1/2 mutations alone predominately have astrocytic morphologies and exhibit a median OS of 57 months while patients whose tumors exhibit both TERT promoter and IDH1/2 mutations predominately exhibit oligodendroglial morphologies and exhibit median OS of 125 months.
cGMP deficiency has deleterious effects on the heart and contributes to the progression of HF. Different molecules, including nitric oxide (NO) donors, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and natriuretic peptides analogues, target the NO-sCG-cGMP pathway but have yielded conflicting results in HF patients. Vericiguat acts as a sGC stimulator thus targeting the NO-sGC-cGMP pathway by a different mechanism that complements the current pharmacotherapy for HF. Vericiguat has shown an additional statistical add-on therapy efficacy by reducing morbi-mortality in patients with WCHF. A better evaluation of HF severity might be an important determinant to guide the use of vericiguat among the available therapies.
What is the mechanism of action of Vericiguat?
yielded conflicting results in HF patients. Vericiguat acts as a sGC stimulator thus targeting the NO-sGC-cGMP pathway by a different mechanism that co
Conserved noncoding elements (CNEs) in vertebrate genomes often act as developmental enhancers, but a critical issue is how well orthologous CNE sequences retain the same activity in their respective species, a characteristic important for generalization of model organism studies. To quantify how well CNE enhancer activity has been preserved, we compared the anatomy-specific activities of 41 zebra fish CNEs in zebra fish embryos with the activities of orthologous human CNEs in mouse embryos. We found that 13/41 (∼30%) of the orthologous CNE pairs exhibit conserved positive activity in zebra fish and mouse. Conserved positive activity is only weakly associated with either sequence conservation or the absence of bases undergoing accelerated evolution. A stronger effect is that disparate activity is associated with transcription factor binding site divergence. To distinguish the contributions of cis- versus trans-regulatory changes, we analyzed 13 CNEs in a three-way experimental comparison: human CNE tested in zebra fish, human CNE tested in mouse, and orthologous zebra fish CNE tested in zebra fish. Both cis- and trans-changes affect a significant fraction of CNEs, although human and zebra fish sequences exhibit disparate activity in zebra fish (indicating cis regulatory changes) twice as often as human sequences show disparate activity when tested in mouse and zebra fish (indicating trans regulatory changes). In all four cases where the zebra fish and human CNE display a similar expression pattern in zebra fish, the human CNE also displays a similar expression pattern in mouse. This suggests that the endogenous enhancer activity of ∼30% of human CNEs can be determined from experiments in zebra fish alone, and to identify these CNEs, both the zebra fish and the human sequences should be tested.
Do Conserved noncoding elements act as enhancers?
In all four cases where the zebra fish and human CNE display a similar expression pattern in zebra fish, the human CNE also displays a similar expression pattern in mouse. This suggests that the endogenous enhancer activity of ∼30% of human CNEs can be determined from experiments in zebra fish
miRNAs are a group of small noncoding RNAs measuring 19-25 nucleotides. Sequence-specific binding of miRNAs to the 3´ untranslated regions of target genes leads to translational repressions. Dysregulation of miRNA expression involved in cancer can be triggered by multiple mechanisms including aberrant DNA methylation of the miRNA gene promoter. Of note, DNA methylation of tumor suppressor miRNAs has been implicated in various human cancers. Moreover, miRNA silencing mediated by aberrant promoter DNA methylation can potentially be reversed by hypomethylating agents, and hence may pose a new therapeutic target in cancer. In this review, the authors will focus on the aberrant methylation of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of lymphoid malignancies including chronic lymphocytic leukemia, multiple myeloma and acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Are microRNA (miR) regulated through DNA methylation of their promoters?
Moreover, miRNA silencing mediated by aberrant promoter DNA methylation can potentially be reversed by hypomethylating agents, and hence may pose a new therapeutic target in cancer
The inflammatory Bowel diseases (IBDs) are a chronic, relapsing inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract with heterogeneous behavior and prognosis. The introduction of biological therapies including anti-TNF, anti-IL-12/23, and anti-integrins, has revolutionized the treatment of IBD, but these drugs are not universally effective. Due to the complex molecular structures of biologics, they are uniformly immunogenic. New discoveries concerning the underlying mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of IBD have allowed for progress in the development of new treatment options. The advantage of small molecules (SMs) over biological therapies includes their lack of immunogenicity, short half-life, oral administration, and low manufacturing cost. Among these, the Janus Kinases (JAKs) inhibition has emerged as a novel strategy to modulate downstream cytokine signaling during immune-mediated diseases. These drugs target various cytokine signaling pathways that participate in the pathogenesis of IBD. Tofacitinib, a JAK inhibitor targeting predominantly JAK1 and JAK3, has been approved for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC), and there are other specific JAK inhibitors under development that may be effective in Crohn's. Similarly, the traffic of lymphocytes can now be targeted by another SM. Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor (S1PR) agonism is a novel strategy that acts, in part, by interfering with lymphocyte recirculation, through blockade of lymphocyte egress from lymph nodes. S1PR agonists are being studied in IBD and other immune-mediated disorders. This review will focus on SM drugs approved and under development, including JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib, filgotinib, upadacitinib, peficitinib) and S1PR agonists (KRP-203, fingolimod, ozanimod, etrasimod, amiselimod), and their mechanism of action.
What is the mechanism of action of ozanimod?
This review will focus on SM drugs approved and under development, including JAK inhibitors (tofacitinib, filgotinib, upadacitinib, peficitinib) and S1PR agonists (KRP-203, fingolimod, ozanimod, etrasimod, amiselimod), and their mechanism of action.
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the most common cause of death worldwide. The consumption of natural polyphenol-rich foods, and cocoa in particular, has been related to a reduced risk of CVD, including coronary heart disease and stroke. Intervention studies strongly suggest that cocoa exerts a beneficial impact on cardiovascular health, through the reduction of blood pressure (BP), improvement of vascular function, modulation of lipid and glucose metabolism, and reduction of platelet aggregation. These potentially beneficial effects have been shown in healthy subjects as well as in patients with risk factors (arterial hypertension, diabetes, and smoking) or established CVD (coronary heart disease or heart failure). Several potential mechanisms are supposed to be responsible for the positive effect of cocoa; among them activation of nitric oxide (NO) synthase, increased bioavailability of NO as well as antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It is the aim of this review to summarize the findings of cocoa and chocolate on BP and vascular function.
Is the consumption of chocolate associated with an increase in cardiovascular disease?
The consumption of natural polyphenol-rich foods, and cocoa in particular, has been related to a reduced risk of CVD, including coronary heart disease and stroke.
Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) mediates the fourth step of de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis and is a proven drug target for inducing immunosuppression in therapy of human disease as well as a rapidly emerging drug target for treatment of malaria. In Toxoplasma gondii, disruption of the first, fifth, or sixth step of de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis induced uracil auxotrophy. However, previous attempts to generate uracil auxotrophy by genetically deleting the mitochondrion-associated DHODH of T. gondii (TgDHODH) failed. To further address the essentiality of TgDHODH, mutant gene alleles deficient in TgDHODH activity were designed to ablate the enzyme activity. Replacement of the endogenous DHODH gene with catalytically deficient DHODH gene alleles induced uracil auxotrophy. Catalytically deficient TgDHODH localized to the mitochondria, and parasites retained mitochondrial membrane potential. These results show that TgDHODH is essential for the synthesis of pyrimidines and suggest that TgDHODH is required for a second essential function independent of its role in pyrimidine biosynthesis.
Human dihydroorotate dehydrogenase is a drug target and is involved in what biosynthetic pathway
Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) mediates the fourth step of de novo pyrimidine biosynthesis and is a proven drug target for inducing immunosuppression in therapy of human disease as well as a rapidly emerging drug target for treatment of malaria.
Hunter disease or mucopolysaccharidosis type II is an X-linked disease caused by the deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme iduronate-2-sulfatase (IDS). The IDS gene (24 kb) contains nine exons and has been completely sequenced. A pseudogene (IDS-2 locus) distal to the functional IDS gene has recently been identified. This work reports the characterization of IDS gene alterations in two severely affected patients. Patient 1 has a partial deletion that removes exons I to VI and extends about 200 kb upstream of the IDS gene. Patient 2 has an internal deletion of exons IV, V, VI, and VII, which results from an IDS gene-pseudogene exchange between highly homologous regions. In the rearranged gene, the junction intron contains pseudogene intron 3- and intron 7-related sequences. An interchromosomal recombination is probably the cause of this rearranged X chromosome.
Is Hunter's disease is associated with the X Chromosome?
Hunter disease or mucopolysaccharidosis type II is an X-linked disease caused by the deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme iduronate-2-sulfatase (IDS). Th
We demonstrate that the extraction of RNA and subsequent identification of miRNAs from the serum of individuals diagnosed with ovarian cancer is feasible. Real-time PCR-based microarray is a novel and practical means to performing high-throughput investigation of serum RNA samples. miRNAs-21, 92 and 93 are known oncogenes with therapeutic and biomarker potential.
Which miRNAs could be used as potential biomarkers for epithelial ovarian cancer?
miRNAs-21, 92 and 93 are known oncogenes with therapeutic and biomarker potential
Four patients from three families with the clinical features of DOOR syndrome (onycho-osteodystrophy, dystrophic thumbs, sensorineural deafness, and increased urinary levels of 2-oxoglutarate) are the subjects of this report. Our report deals with the autosomal recessive form of the disease, wherein the activity of 2-oxoglutarate decarboxylase (E1(0)) in fibroblasts and white blood cells of the patients is decreased. The activity of E1(0) in all patients' fibroblasts and white blood cells was significantly lower compared to the controls. This study demonstrates for the first time that E1(0) deficiency is an important biochemical marker for the autosomal recessive form of DOOR syndrome.
List features of the DOOR syndrome.
Four patients from three families with the clinical features of DOOR syndrome (onycho-osteodystrophy, dystrophic thumbs, sensorineural deafness, and increased urinary levels of 2-oxoglutarate) are the subjects of this report.
The application of afamelanotide, an α-melanocyte stimulating hormone agonistic analogue to protoporphyria, a disease with absolute sunlight-intolerance is discussed. The clinics, genetics and existing therapies of protoporphyria are described. The physiological receptor-mediated intracellular signaling of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone and effects of receptor variants are outlined. The pharmacological action of afamelanotide and the rationale behind its application in protoporphyria are given. The results of several Phase II and III and safety issues are discussed. The trial results were significant, although the effects were not very large in absolute terms, and the risk-safety profile is favorable today. Based on the high compliance rate and the excellent consistency in clinical effectiveness during six years of compassionate use program in Switzerland, we expect afamelanotide and analogues to become a prospective therapeutic tool. Moreover, we hope that dosage forms suitable for children will be developed in future, as children and adolescents suffer most in protoporphyria.
Which diseases can be treated with Afamelanotide?
The application of afamelanotide, an α-melanocyte stimulating hormone agonistic analogue to protoporphyria, a disease with absolute sunlight-intolerance is discussed.
We observed a novel 3.5 Mb 5q subtelomeric deletion in a 3-year-old girl with developmental delay, hypotonia and multiple minor anomalies. Comparison of her phenotype with the few published patients with terminal 5q35 deletions revealed several overlapping features, but also showed remarkable differences such as shortness of stature versus macrosomia. After the report of 5q35.3 microdeletions in Sotos syndrome we integrated the published BACs into the public draft sequence and exactly mapped the deletion size in our patient by FISH analysis with 15 BAC probes. We demonstrated that the deletion in our patient is immediately adjacent to the reported Sotos syndrome deletion site. Subtracting the symptoms of Sotos syndrome from the published patients with larger 5q35.3 deletions allowed us to delineate a distinct phenotype of prenatal lymphedema with increased nuchal translucency, pronounced muscular hypotonia and delay of reaching motor milestones, but speech development within normal limits, wide fontanels, failure to thrive with postnatal short stature, and multiple minor anomalies such as mildly bell-shaped chest, minor congenital heart disease, and a distinct facial gestalt, associated with the novel 3.5 Mb cryptic deletion. We further showed in our patient that the deletion of the LCT(4) synthase gene results in a reduction of cysteinyl leukotriene synthesis to about 65% compared to normal values. The prenatal nuchal lymphedema associated with this deletion syndrome my be related to the deletion of the FLT4 gene causing autosomal dominant primary lymphedema and contributes to the differential diagnosis of increased fetal nuchal translucency.
Have 5q35 microdeletions been implicated in Sotos syndrome development?
After the report of 5q35.3 microdeletions in Sotos syndrome we integrated the published BACs into the public draft sequence and exactly mapped the deletion size in our patient by FISH analysis with 15 BAC probes.
Panama disease of banana, caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, is a serious constraint both to the commercial production of banana and cultivation for subsistence agriculture. Previous work has indicated that F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense consists of several clonal lineages that may be genetically distant. In this study we tested whether lineages of the Panama disease pathogen have a monophyletic origin by comparing DNA sequences of nuclear and mitochondrial genes. DNA sequences were obtained for translation elongation factor 1alpha and the mitochondrial small subunit ribosomal RNA genes for F. oxysporum strains from banana, pathogenic strains from other hosts and putatively nonpathogenic isolates of F. oxysporum. Cladograms for the two genes were highly concordant and a partition-homogeneity test indicated the two datasets could be combined. The tree inferred from the combined dataset resolved five lineages corresponding to "F. oxysporum f. sp. cubense" with a large dichotomy between two taxa represented by strains most commonly isolated from bananas with Panama disease. The results also demonstrate that the latter two taxa have significantly different chromosome numbers. F. oxysporum isolates collected as nonpathogenic or pathogenic to other hosts that have very similar or identical elongation factor 1alpha and mitochondrial small subunit genotypes as banana pathogens were shown to cause little or no disease on banana. Taken together, these results indicate Panama disease of banana is caused by fungi with independent evolutionary origins.
What is the causative agent of the "Panama disease" affecting bananas?
Panama disease of banana, caused by the fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense, is a serious constraint both to the commercial production of banana and cultivation for subsistence agriculture
Three patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus and Parkinson's disease are reported. The recognition of this association is important because these two entities require specific therapeutic approaches. The presence of Parkinson's disease does not preclude an excellent response of the hydrocephalus to a shunting procedure. Although several reports of cases with the characteristic clinical manifestations of normal pressure hydrocephalus--progressive dementia, gait difficulty and urinary incontinence--have been published earlier, it was Adams and Hakim who emphasized the clinical triad and the effect of shunting the cerebrospinal fluid as a means of treatment. Messert and Baker stressed that the gait disturbance had a close resemblance to the freezing gait of parkinsonism. We are reporting three patients who had both conditions. Recognition of the existence of both disorders in the same patients is important since appropriate treatment of each of them led to marked improvement of their symptoms.
List symptoms of Hakim Triad.
Although several reports of cases with the characteristic clinical manifestations of normal pressure hydrocephalus--progressive dementia, gait difficulty and urinary incontinence--have been published earlier, it was Adams and Hakim who emphasized the clinical triad and the effect of shunting the cerebrospinal fluid as a means of treatment.
The organic cation transporter 3 (OCT3; synonymous: extraneuronal monoamine transporter, EMT, Slc22a3) encodes an isoform of the organic cation transporters and is expressed widely across the whole brain. OCTs are a family of high-capacity, bidirectional, multispecific transporters of organic cations. These also include serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine making OCTs attractive candidates for a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders including anxiety disorders. OCT3 has been implicated in termination of monoaminergic signalling in the central nervous system. Interestingly, OCT3 mRNA is however also significantly up-regulated in the hippocampus of serotonin transporter knockout mice where it might serve as an alternative reuptake mechanism for serotonin. The examination of the behavioural phenotype of OCT3 knockout mice thus is paramount to assess the role of OCT3. We have therefore subjected mice lacking the OCT3 gene to a comprehensive behavioural test battery. While cognitive functioning in the Morris water maze test and aggression levels measured with the resident-intruder paradigm were in the same range as the respective control animals, OCT3 knockout animals showed a tendency of increased activity and were significantly less anxious in the elevated plus-maze test and the open field test as compared to their respective wild-type controls arguing for a role of OCT3 in the regulation of fear and anxiety, probably by modulating the serotonergic tone in limbic circuitries.
How is OCT3 associated with serotonin?
Interestingly, OCT3 mRNA is however also significantly up-regulated in the hippocampus of serotonin transporter knockout mice where it might serve as an alternative reuptake mechanism for serotonin
Multiple myeloma is a neoplastic plasma-cell disorder resulting from malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. It can cause a hyperviscosity syndrome secondary to the paraproteinaemia associated with the disease. The increased hyperviscosity can lead to retinal vein occlusions and other ocular problems that may challenge clinicians. In patients with multiple myeloma and hypertension and/or diabetes mellitus, retinal changes appear similar and changes due to one disease or the other may be difficult to determine. A 48-year-old white female presented to the clinic with a complaint of blurry vision in her left eye. A full comprehensive ocular examination revealed a central retinal vein occlusion presumably from the patient's history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolaemia. Further bloodwork revealed monoclonal protein in the patient's serum and an increased percentage of plasma cells in the bone marrow. She was diagnosed with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, part of the multiple myeloma disease spectrum. She was referred to a retinal specialist for initiation of intravitreal injections of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor. Multiple myeloma has been implicated in younger patients as an underlying cause of retinal vein occlusions. Multiple myeloma should be considered as a differential diagnosis in young patients with retinal vein occlusions, even if other risk factors for venous occlusion like hypertension, diabetes mellitus and hypercholesterolaemia are present. Timely referral to the patient's primary care physician and haematologist is important for appropriate treatment and control of underlying systemic conditions.
Can multiple myeloma patients develop hyperviscosity syndrome?
Multiple myeloma is a neoplastic plasma-cell disorder resulting from malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. It can cause a hyperviscosity syndrome secondary to the paraproteinaemia associated with the disease. The increased hyperviscosity can lead to retinal vein occlusions and other ocular problems that may challenge clinicians.
The diagnostic categories of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) were stablished in an effort to identify populations at risk for developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Both IGT and IFG are associated with increased risk of developing T2DM, but recent analyses found that the thresholds of risk vary among different populations and an even lower diagnostic threshold of IFG may be appropriate. IGT has been linked with an increased risk of cardiovascular events and some analyses have demonstrated an increased mortality risk compared with patients with normal glucose tolerance. In contrast, a continuum of increased risk of microvascular manifestations of T2DM has been demonstrated with IFG but an association of IFG with cardiovascular events has not been well established. Although both IGT and IFG are associated with resistance to insulin and increased insulin secretion, they do not identify the identical patient populations and are not equivalent in predicting development of T2DM or cardiovascular events. IFG and IGT have been associated with other features of insulin resistance, including dyslipidaemia, hypertension, abdominal obesity, microalbuminuria, endothelial dysfunction, and markers of inflammation and hypercoagulability, traits collectively referred to as the metabolic syndrome. Analyses of combinations of these components have also been associated with progression to T2DM, cardiovascular disease and increased mortality. The foundation of treatment for IGT, IFG, and the metabolic syndrome is lifestyle modification, including both dietary change and routine exercise. To date, several clinical trials have found that lifestyle modification is the most efficacious strategy to prevent progression to T2DM. Alternative treatments include pharmacotherapy with metformin or acarbose, both of which have been demonstrated to decrease the development of T2DM. Ongoing clinical trials are evaluating newer pharmacotherapies, including angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, angiotensin receptor antagonists, metglitinides and thiazolidinediones, to prevent both T2DM and cardiovascular events. In combination with lifestyle modification, these therapies offer hope for effective prevention of T2DM and its consequences in high-risk patients.
What are the five traits associated with metabolic syndrome?
T have been associated with other features of insulin resistance, including dyslipidaemia, hypertension, abdominal obesity, microalbuminuria, endothelial dysfunction, and markers of inflammation and hypercoagulability, traits collectively referred to as the metabolic syndrome. Analyses of com
Most radiation-induced osteosarcomas of the skull are reported to arise in the facial bone or paranasal sinus after radiotherapy for retinoblastoma and/or pituitary adenoma. Here we report two cases of radiation-induced osteosarcoma in the paranasal sinus after treatment for frontal glioma. Case 1 was a 56-year-old woman who underwent surgical resection of a left frontal tumor in October 1990. The histological diagnosis was a low-grade glioma, and radiotherapy of 54 Gy was administered. Sixteen years later, in September 2006, the patient noted an enlarging subcutaneous mass in the right frontal region. CT showed an osteolytic mass in the right frontal sinus. An open biopsy established the histopathological diagnosis of osteosarcoma, and the patient subsequently died of rapid tumor regrowth. Case 2 was a 58-year-old man who underwent partial removal of a bifrontal tumor in May 1996. The histological diagnosis was anaplastic oligoastrocytoma, and radiotherapy of 56 Gy was administered. Twelve years later, in March 2008, the patient was readmitted to our hospital for reasons of marked deterioration in general physical condition. Tumor recurrence was suspected in the left frontal lobe, and CT demonstrated an osteolytic mass in the left frontal and ethmoid sinus. A secondary operation was performed, and the pathological specimens were diagnosed as osteosarcoma. Radiotherapy was readministered, but the subject died of rapid tumor regrowth. From these clinicopathological findings, both cases were diagnosed as radiation-induced osteosarcoma. Radiation-induced osteosarcomas appeared 16 and 12 years after radiotherapy in cases 1 and 2, respectively. As the prognosis of radiation-induced osteosarcoma is poorer than that of primary osteo-sarcoma, careful attention is required for consideration of the long-term survival of patients with glioma.
Can radiotherapy cause radiation induced osteosarcoma?
Most radiation-induced osteosarcomas of the skull are reported to arise in the facial bone or paranasal sinus after radiotherapy for retinoblastoma and/or pituitary adenoma.
Primers for vertebrate mitochondrial leading-strand DNA replication are products of transcription synthesized by mitochondrial RNA polymerase. The precursor primer RNA exists as a persistent RNA-DNA hybrid, known as an R-loop, formed during transcription through the replication origin (Xu, B., and Clayton, D. A. (1996) EMBO J. 15, 3135-3143). In an effort to examine the precise structure of this primer RNA intermediate, we have used two methods to reconstitute model R-loops containing the mouse mitochondrial DNA origin sequence. First, we demonstrate that bacteriophage SP6 RNA polymerase can efficiently catalyze the formation of an R-loop at the mouse mtDNA origin sequence. Second, the R-loop can be assembled by annealing presynthesized RNA and supercoiled DNA template in the presence of formamide. R-loop formation by either method is dependent on specific template sequences. The reconstituted R-loop is exceptionally stable and exhibits an unexpected structure. Structural studies indicate that the RNA strand is organized within the RNA-DNA base-paired region, suggesting that the heteroduplex interaction occurs through a specific conformation. We propose that the organized structure of the R-loop is critical for primer RNA function in vivo with important implications for the RNA processing and DNA replication machinery.
Do R-loops tend to form at sites of DNA replication?
The precursor primer RNA exists as a persistent RNA-DNA hybrid, known as an R-loop, formed during transcription through the replication origin (Xu, B., and Clayton, D. A. (1996) EMBO J. 15, 3135-3143).
Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the pathogen causing tuberculosis, continues to elude a cure. Latent Mtb forms are present in human population for extended periods and have the potential to be re-activated into an active form. The prophylactic vaccine, live-attenuated Mycobacterium bovis Bacillus-Calmette-Guerin (BCG) vaccine is not effective in preventing latent infection. The failure of BCG in prevention/protection against latent forms of Mtb calls for efforts to curb latent Mtb infection. The inclusion of latency/dormancy antigens in the classical antigen preparation is surmised as a strategy. DosR (Dormancy Survival Regulator, Rv3133c) regulon genes are expressed under the conditions of latency/dormancy. Previous bioinformatics analyses have pointed towards their role as probable vaccine candidates. Since nearly 60% of DosR regulon genes are unannotated, efforts towards elucidating their functional role will prove valuable. The study presented here provides an in-depth in silico 3D-structure prediction and functional analyses of the first member of the DosR regulon group, the hypothetical protein, Rv0079. A combination of approaches such as: homology modeling and threading using SWISS-MODEL workspace, Phyre and BioInfo bank Metaserver; protein localization predictions using PSORTb, LOCtree, TMHMM and TMpred; function prediction using ProFunc, epitope prediction using NetCTL and others was implemented. Evidence gathered from a combination of bioinformatics tools supports the hypothesis that Mtb Rv0079 protein is a likely cytoplasmic translation factor. Experimental validation will help provide more insight into its actual function.
What is the function of the dormancy survival regulator (DosR) in Mycobacterium tuberculosis?
DosR (Dormancy Survival Regulator, Rv3133c) regulon genes are expressed under the conditions of latency/dormancy.
Alzheimer's disease (AD) represents a major public health challenge. It is the most common cause of dementia, the worldwide prevalence of which will double every 20 years in the foreseeable future. It would be good if it were possible to treat AD early to diminish its impact, but current evidence does not support early intervention. Vitamin E was no more effective than placebo in a study of vitamin E and donepezil against placebo in mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Vitamin E is associated with a higher rate of haemorrhagic events than is placebo. Neither donepezil nor galantamine has been shown to be helpful in retarding progression from MCI to AD. Gingko biloba was ineffective in delaying the onset of AD in a large prospective trial involving over 6,000 participants. Gamma secretase inhibitors have not yet been shown to retard the progression of AD and they seem to have a high incidence of adverse effects, especially rashes. Antibody therapy has not yet been shown to be helpful in the treatment of established AD, let alone its prevention. Metalloproteinase modifiers such as PBT2 may be useful AD therapies, but current evidence gives no support to their immediate use in pre-symptomatic AD. No evidence can yet be adduced to support the use of antibody therapies in MCI or early AD. Thus, it is clear that the early treatment of AD cannot be justified as yet, no matter how desirable this goal may be. Treatment of established AD with cholinesterase inhibitors and memantine, coupled with referral of interested patients to evaluative drug trials, is the best we can do at present.
PBT2 has been tested for which disorder?
Metalloproteinase modifiers such as PBT2 may be useful AD therapies, but current evidence gives no support to their immediate use in pre-symptomatic AD.
Microorganisms of the microsporidia group are obligated intracellular protozoa that belong to the phylum Microspora; currently they are considered to be related or belong to the fungi reign. It is considered an opportunistic infection in humans, and 14 species belonging to 8 different genera have been described. Immunocompromized patients such as those infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), also HIV serum-negative asymptomatic patients, with poor hygienic conditions, and recipients of bone marrow or solid organ transplantation are susceptible to develop deinfection. Sixty transplanted patients with renal microsporidia infection have been reported worldwide. The aim of this paper is to inform about the 2nd case of kidney transplant and microsporidia infection documented in Mexico.
In which kingdom do microsporidia belong, according to their current classification scheme?
Microorganisms of the microsporidia group are obligated intracellular protozoa that belong to the phylum Microspora; currently they are considered to be related or belong to the fungi reign
Fluorescent chromatin tagging by the lacO operator/lac repressor system in Arabidopsis thaliana is useful to trace distinct chromatin domains in living cells. Nevertheless, the tandem repeats of the tagging system may alter the spatial organisation of chromatin within nuclei by increasing homologous pairing as well as association with heterochromatin. Efficient homologous pairing occurs if lacO repeat arrays of ∼10 kb are present at two loci, either on the same chromosome or on different chromosomes. DNA hypomethylation of lacO repeats results in reduced homologous pairing. Because, in plants, DNA methylation can serve as a signal for H3-lysine9-dimethylation (H3K9me2), and subsequently for non-CG-context DNA methylation, SET-domain histone methyltransferase and chromodomain dna methyltransferase 3 (cmt3) mutations were introgressed. In suvh4 suvh5 suvh6 and cmt3 mutants, H3K9me2 associated with lacO repeats is diminished, but homologous pairing persists. Thus, neither H3K9me2 nor CMT3-mediated non-CG methylation are required at wild-type level for homologous pairing of lacO repeat loci.
In which proteins is the chromodomain present?
Because, in plants, DNA methylation can serve as a signal for H3-lysine9-dimethylation (H3K9me2), and subsequently for non-CG-context DNA methylation, SET-domain histone methyltransferase and chromodomain dna methyltransferase 3 (cmt3) mutations were introgressed. In suvh4 suvh5 suvh6 and cmt3 mutants, H3K9me2 associated with lacO repeats is diminished, but homologous pairing persists.
Fanconi Anemia (FA) is an autosomal recessive syndrome characterized by congenital abnormalities, progressive bone marrow failure, and susceptibility to cancer. FA has eight known complementation groups and is caused by mutations in at least seven genes. Biallelic BRCA2 mutations were shown recently to cause FA-D1. Monoallelic (heterozygous) BRCA2 mutations confer a high risk of breast cancer and are a major cause of familial breast cancer. To investigate whether heterozygous variants in other FA genes are high penetrance breast cancer susceptibility alleles, we screened germ-line DNA from 88 BRCA1/2-negative families, each with at least three cases of breast cancer, for mutations in FANCA, FANCC, FANCD2, FANCE, FANCF, and FANCG. Sixty-nine sequence variants were identified of which 25 were exonic. None of the exonic variants resulted in translational frameshifts or nonsense codons and 14 were polymorphisms documented previously. Of the remaining 11 exonic variants, 2 resulted in synonymous changes, and 7 were present in controls. Only 2 conservative missense variants, 1 in FANCA and 1 in FANCE, were each found in a single family and were not present in 300 controls. The results indicate that FA gene mutations, other than in BRCA2, are unlikely to be a frequent cause of highly penetrant breast cancer predisposition.
Which is the genetic cause for the development of Fanconi anemia complementation group D1?
Biallelic BRCA2 mutations were shown recently to cause FA-D1.
Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), the most common form of familial vascular dementia, is caused by mutations of the NOTCH3 gene. Approximately two hundred pathogenic mutations have been reported within five exons (exons 3, 4, 6, 11 and 19) which accounted for 78% of known mutations in worldwide series. We reported twenty-one NOTCH3 pathogenic mutations (including five novel ones) identified in 53 index Italian patients. Exons 4 (28%), 7 (21%) and 19 (24%) were the most frequently involved. To dissect genetic heterogeneity, we analyzed five haplotyped tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (rs1044009, rs4809030, rs10426042, rs10423702 and rs3815188) in 95 patients, 39 unaffected pedigree members and 50 healthy controls. SNPs were analyzed using the Illumina VeraCode Universal Capture Beads technology by Allele Specific Primer Extension (ASPE). We identified ten different haplotypes named H1-H10; H1 was the most common haplotype in patients and controls and it was associated with at least twelve out of the twenty-one mutations. Detected mutations were not associated to specific haplotypes while genotyping was compatible with a possible founder effect for the novel p.S396C mutation which clustered in a restricted geographical area of northeast Italy. The results added on to the genetic heterogeneity of CADASIL and emphasized difficulties in designing algorithms for molecular diagnosis.
Which gene is involved in CADASIL?
leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), the most common form of familial vascular dementia, is caused by mutations of the NOTCH3 gene
In the WHO glioma classification guidelines grade (glioblastoma versus lower-grade glioma), IDH mutation and 1p/19q co-deletion status play a central role as they are important markers for prognosis and optimal therapy planning. Currently, diagnosis requires invasive surgical procedures. Therefore, we propose an automatic segmentation and classification pipeline based on routinely acquired pre-operative MRI (T1, T1 postcontrast, T2 and/or FLAIR). A 3D U-Net was designed for segmentation and trained on the BraTS 2019 training dataset. After segmentation, the 3D tumor region of interest is extracted from the MRI and fed into a CNN to simultaneously predict grade, IDH mutation and 1p19q co-deletion. Multi-task learning allowed to handle missing labels and train one network on a large dataset of 628 patients, collected from The Cancer Imaging Archive and BraTS databases. Additionally, the network was validated on an independent dataset of 110 patients retrospectively acquired at the Ghent University Hospital (GUH). Segmentation performance calculated on the BraTS validation set shows an average whole tumor dice score of 90% and increased robustness to missing image modalities by randomly excluding input MRI during training. Classification area under the curve scores are 93%, 94% and 82% on the TCIA test data and 94%, 86% and 87% on the GUH data for grade, IDH and 1p19q status respectively. We developed a fast, automatic pipeline to segment glioma and accurately predict important (molecular) markers based on pre-therapy MRI.
The 1p19q co-deletion is associated with what types of tumors?
In the WHO glioma classification guidelines grade (glioblastoma versus lower-grade glioma), IDH mutation and 1p/19q co-deletion status play a central role as they are important markers for prognosis and optimal therapy planning.
Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare inherited genetic condition that may lead to bone marrow failure, leukemia, and/or solid tumors. It is caused by the loss of function of at least 1 gene of the FA/BRCA pathway, which is necessary for DNA repair. Patients with FA have a 200-fold to 1000-fold risk of developing head and neck cancer, mainly oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and of doing so at a much younger age than individuals within the general population. Also, patients who have FA with OSCC have poor overall survival rates, reinforcing the necessity to detect OSCC early. The scope of the current review is to provide an update on OSCC in patients with FA.
Summarize Fanconi's anemia
Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare inherited genetic condition that may lead to bone marrow failure, leukemia, and/or solid tumors.
Multiple strategies evolved by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb) have contributed to its successful prevalence. We previously identified specific genes in the cysteine protease and calcium-calmodulin pathways that regulated immune responses from dendritic cells (DCs). In this study we have characterized the role of neddylation in regulating various defense responses from DCs during mycobacterial infection. Neddylation is a process that is similar to ubiquitination. It however has its own enzyme machinery. It is coupled to ubiquitination and is important for maintaining cellular homeostasis. Here we show that stimulation of DCs with M. tb antigens Rv2463 and Rv3416 as well as infection with live M. tb modulates the expression levels of key proteins in the neddylation pathway. Further, stimulation with the two antigens promoted the association of NEDD8 with its target Cullin-1. The modulation in the expression levels of NEDD8 and SENtrin specific Protein 8 (SENP8) by the two antigens was in a calcium, MAPK and TLR dependent mechanism. Further, knockdown of specific genes of neddylation promoted the generation of oxidative burst, promoted phagolysosome fusion in mycobacteria infected DCs and induced higher expression of autophagy and apoptosis associated proteins in DCs. These results point toward a unique strategy employed by mycobacteria and its antigens towards immune suppression via modulating neddylation in DCs.
What is the biological role of Neddylation?
Neddylation is a process that is similar to ubiquitination. It however has its own enzyme machinery. It is coupled to ubiquitination and is important for maintaining cellular homeostasis.
The integration of genome annotations is critical to the identification of genetic variants that are relevant to studies of disease or other traits. However, comprehensive variant annotation with diverse file formats is difficult with existing methods. Here we describe vcfanno, which flexibly extracts and summarizes attributes from multiple annotation files and integrates the annotations within the INFO column of the original VCF file. By leveraging a parallel "chromosome sweeping" algorithm, we demonstrate substantial performance gains by annotating ~85,000 variants per second with 50 attributes from 17 commonly used genome annotation resources. Vcfanno is available at https://github.com/brentp/vcfanno under the MIT license.
What is vcfanno?
The integration of genome annotations is critical to the identification of genetic variants that are relevant to studies of disease or other traits. However, comprehensive variant annotation with diverse file formats is difficult with existing methods. Here we describe vcfanno, which flexibly extracts and summarizes attributes from multiple annotation files and integrates the annotations within the INFO column of the original VCF file. By leveraging a parallel "chromosome sweeping" algorithm, we demonstrate substantial performance gains by annotating ~85,000 variants per second with 50 attributes from 17 commonly used genome annotation resources. Vcfanno is available at https://github.com/brentp/vcfanno under the MIT license.
Drug development for multiple sclerosis (MS), as with any other neurological disease, faces numerous challenges, with many drugs failing at various stages of development. The disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) first introduced for MS are only moderately effective, but given the lack of competition, they have been widely accepted in clinical practice. Although safety and efficacy continue to be the two main metrics by which drugs will be judged, the newer agents in the market also face challenges of a more comparative nature-are they more efficacious than the currently available drugs on the market? Are they safer or better tolerated? Do they offer any practical advantages over current treatments? Fingolimod represented a milestone following its approval as an oral drug for MS in 2010, offering patients a far more convenient administration route. However, association with cardiovascular complications has led to a more cautious approach in its initial prescribing, now requiring cardiac monitoring for the first 6 h as well as subsequent monitoring of blood pressure and for macular oedema. Natalizumab, amongst licensed drugs, represents the current benchmark for efficacy. The risk of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy during natalizumab treatment is now more quantifiable. Other monoclonal antibodies are in various phases of development. Marketing authorisation for alemtuzumab has been filed, and whilst trial data suggest that its efficacy outperforms both licensed drugs and others in development, there is a significant risk of secondary autoimmunity. Its once-yearly administration, however, seems particularly advantageous. Rituximab is unlikely to be developed further as its license will expire, but ocrelizumab, another monoclonal antibody directly targeting B cells, is currently in phase 2 development and looks promising. Daclizumab is also moderately efficacious but may struggle to establish itself given its monthly subcutaneous dosing. There are new oral drugs in development, and it is likely that BG-12 will be licensed this year. This has been licensed for psoriasis so there are good safety data in humans that may also hold true in MS; however, its three times daily dosage will probably impact on patient compliance. Laquinimod has lower efficacy than BG-12 but appears safe and could find a place as a first-line agent. Teriflunomide has just been licensed by the US FDA and may challenge the current injectable first-line therapies as it has a similar efficacy but the advantage of being taken orally. However, risk of teratogenicity may caution against its use in some women of child-bearing potential. This review will examine drugs that have been recently approved as well as those that are in late phase 2 or 3 development as treatment for relapsing MS, highlighting their mechanism of action as well as the clinical trial and safety data before discussing their potential for success in an increasingly florid and complex DMT armamentarium.
What is the mechanism of action of ocrelizumab for treatment of multiple sclerosis?
Rituximab is unlikely to be developed further as its license will expire, but ocrelizumab, another monoclonal antibody directly targeting B cells, is currently in phase 2 development and looks promising.
Autosomal-dominant familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (FALS) is associated with mutation in the gene that encodes Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1). We identified a novel missense mutation of SOD-1 (Cys6Gly) in exon 1 in a Japanese woman and her family. The illness showed rapid progression similarly to the FALS with a mutation of Cys6Phe that was reported by Morita et al. (1996) (Morita, M., Aoki, M., Abe, K., Hasegawa, T., Sakuma, R., Onodera, Y., Ichikawa, N., Nishizawa, M. and Itoyama, Y., A novel two-base mutation in the Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase gene associated with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Japan. Neurosci. Lett., 205 (1996) 79-82). Mutation of the cystein at amino acid 6 might be associated with the rapid progression of ALS.
Can Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) be associated with a mutation of the Super Oxide Dismutase 1 (SOD) gene?
(1996) (Morita, M., Aoki, M., Abe, K., Hasegawa, T., Sakuma, R., Onodera, Y., Ichikawa, N., Nishizawa, M. and Itoyama, Y., A novel two-base mutation in the Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase gene associated with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Japan.
Plantar fasciitis, a chronic degenerative process that causes medial plantar heel pain, is responsible for approximately 1 million physician visits each year. Individuals with plantar fasciitis experience pain that is most intense during their first few steps of the day or after prolonged standing. The authors provide an overview of the diagnosis and management of a common problem encountered in the primary care setting. Routine imaging is not initially recommended for the evaluation of plantar fasciitis but may be required to rule out other pathologic conditions. Overall, plantar fasciitis carries a good prognosis when patients use a combination of several conservative treatment modalities. Occasionally, referral to a specialist may be necessary.
What is plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, a chronic degenerative process that causes medial plantar heel pain, is responsible for approximately 1 million physician visits each year
Aagenaes syndrome, also called Lymphedema Cholestasis Syndrome (LSC 1), is a form of idiopathic familial intrahepatic cholestasis associated with lymphedema of the lower extremities. It is named after the Norwegian pediatrician Oyestein Aagenaes, who described the syndrome in 1968. The presence of lymphedema is likely the predisposing factor for development of recurrent infections in such patients.1 Recurrent cellulitis as such has never been described in the literature with Aagenaes syndrome. This case highlights recurrent cellulitis as one of the potential complications of Aagenaes syndrome.
List two most common symptoms of Aagenaes syndrome.
Aagenaes syndrome, also called Lymphedema Cholestasis Syndrome (LSC 1), is a form of idiopathic familial intrahepatic cholestasis associated with lymphedema of the lower extremities.
For development and evaluation of methods for predicting the effects of variations, benchmark datasets are needed. Some previously developed datasets are available for this purpose, but newer and larger benchmark sets for benign variants have largely been missing. VariSNP datasets are selected from dbSNP. These subsets were filtered against disease-related variants in the ClinVar, UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot, and PhenCode databases, to identify neutral or nonpathogenic cases. All variant descriptions include mapping to reference sequences on chromosomal, genomic, coding DNA, and protein levels. The datasets will be updated with automated scripts on a regular basis and are freely available at http://structure.bmc.lu.se/VariSNP.
What is the aim of the PhenCode database?
These subsets were filtered against disease-related variants in the ClinVar, UniProtKB/Swiss-Prot, and PhenCode databases, to identify neutral or nonpathogenic cases.
Recent segmental duplications (SDs), arising from duplication events that occurred within the past 35-40 My, have provided a major resource for the evolution of proteins with primate-specific functions. KRAB zinc finger (KRAB-ZNF) transcription factor genes are overrepresented among genes contained within these recent human SDs. Here, we examine the structural and functional diversity of the 70 human KRAB-ZNF genes involved in the most recent primate SD events including genes that arose in the hominid lineage. Despite their recent advent, many parent-daughter KRAB-ZNF gene pairs display significant differences in zinc finger structure and sequence, expression, and splicing patterns, each of which could significantly alter the regulatory functions of the paralogous genes. Paralogs that emerged on the lineage to humans and chimpanzees have undergone more evolutionary changes per unit of time than genes already present in the common ancestor of rhesus macaques and great apes. Taken together, these data indicate that a substantial fraction of the recently evolved primate-specific KRAB-ZNF gene duplicates have acquired novel functions that may possibly define novel regulatory pathways and suggest an active ongoing selection for regulatory diversity in primates.
How many genes belong to the KRAB-ZNF family in the human genome?
Here, we examine the structural and functional diversity of the 70 human KRAB-ZNF genes involved in the most recent primate SD events including genes that arose in the hominid lineag
Cerebral hemiatrophy or Dyke-Davidoff-Masson syndrome is a condition characterized by seizures, facial asymmetry, contralateral hemiplegia or hemiparesis, and mental retardation. These findings are due to cerebral injury that may occur early in life or in utero. The radiological features are unilateral loss of cerebral volume and associated compensatory bone alterations in the calvarium, like thickening, hyperpneumatization of the paranasal sinuses and mastoid cells and elevation of the petrous ridge. The authors describe three cases. Classical findings of the syndrome are present in variable degrees according to the extent of the brain injury. Pathogenesis is commented.
What is the characteristic feature of the Dyke-Davidoff-Masson syndrome.
The radiological features are unilateral loss of cerebral volume and associated compensatory bone alterations in the calvarium, like thickening, hyperpneumatization of the paranasal sinuses and mastoid cells and elevation of the petrous ridge.
Approximately 4.1% of unrelated patients had HCM-associated MLP or TCAP mutations. MLP/TCAP-HCM phenotypically mirrors myofilament-HCM and is more severe than the subset of patients who still remain without a disease-causing mutation. The precise role of W4R-MLP in the pathogenesis of either DCM or HCM warrants further investigation.
Is muscle lim protein (MLP) involved in cardiomyopathies?
Approximately 4.1% of unrelated patients had HCM-associated MLP or TCAP mutations. MLP/TCAP-HCM phenotypically mirrors myofilament-HCM and is more severe than the subset of patients who still remain without a disease-causing mutation. The precise role of W4R-MLP in the pathogenesis of either DCM or HCM warrants further investigation.
Transcriptionally active and inactive chromatin domains tend to segregate into separate sub-nuclear compartments to maintain stable expression patterns. However, here we uncovered an inter-chromosomal network connecting active loci enriched in circadian genes to repressed lamina-associated domains (LADs). The interactome is regulated by PARP1 and its co-factor CTCF. They not only mediate chromatin fiber interactions but also promote the recruitment of circadian genes to the lamina. Synchronization of the circadian rhythm by serum shock induces oscillations in PARP1-CTCF interactions, which is accompanied by oscillating recruitment of circadian loci to the lamina, followed by the acquisition of repressive H3K9me2 marks and transcriptional attenuation. Furthermore, depletion of H3K9me2/3, inhibition of PARP activity by olaparib, or downregulation of PARP1 or CTCF expression counteracts both recruitment to the envelope and circadian transcription. PARP1- and CTCF-regulated contacts between circadian loci and the repressive chromatin environment at the lamina therefore mediate circadian transcriptional plasticity.
Does the association of PARP1 and CTCF follow a circadian rhythm?
here we uncovered an inter-chromosomal network connecting active loci enriched in circadian genes to repressed lamina-associated domains (LADs).
Cardiolipin is a major membrane phospholipid in the mitochondria and is essential for cellular energy metabolism mediated through mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. Recent studies indicate that it plays a diverse role in cellular metabolism. Eukaryotic cardiolipin is synthesized de novo from phosphatidic acid via the cytidine-5'-diphosphate-1,2-diacyl-sn-glycerol pathway and is deacylated to monolysocardiolipin in order for it to be remodelled into the form that is observed in mitochondrial membranes. This resynthesis of deacylated cardiolipin from monolysocardiolipin occurs via the Barth Syndrome gene product tafazzin and acyllysocardiolipin acyltransferase-1, monolysocardiolipin acyltransferase-1 and the alpha subunit of trifunctional protein. Heart failure is a disease condition in which the amount and type of cardiolipin is altered. Several animal models have been generated to study the role of altered cardiolipin in heart failure. In many of these models loss of the tetralinoleoyl-cardiolipin species is observed during the development of the heart failure. In the doxycycline inducible short hairpin RNA tafazzin knock down mouse, loss of tetralinoleoyl-cardiolipin is associated with a mitochondrial bioenergetic disruption. Reduction in mitochondrial supercomplex formation and NADH dehydrogenase activity within these supercomplexes is observed. Modulation of CL fatty acyl composition may serve as a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of several pathologies including cardiac dysfunction.We propose that increasing cardiolipin may improve mitochondrial function and potentially serve as a therapy for diseases which exhibit mitochondrial dysfunction involving reduced cardiolipin.
Which gene is involved in the development of Barth syndrome?
This resynthesis of deacylated cardiolipin from monolysocardiolipin occurs via the Barth Syndrome gene product tafazzin and acyllysocardiolipin acyltransferase-1, monolysocardiolipin acyltransferase-1 and the alpha subunit of trifunctional protein.
CTCF and the associated cohesin complex play a central role in insulator function and higher-order chromatin organization of mammalian genomes. Recent studies identified a correlation between the orientation of CTCF-binding sites (CBSs) and chromatin loops. To test the functional significance of this observation, we combined CRISPR/Cas9-based genomic-DNA-fragment editing with chromosome-conformation-capture experiments to show that the location and relative orientations of CBSs determine the specificity of long-range chromatin looping in mammalian genomes, using protocadherin (Pcdh) and β-globin as model genes. Inversion of CBS elements within the Pcdh enhancer reconfigures the topology of chromatin loops between the distal enhancer and target promoters and alters gene-expression patterns. Thus, although enhancers can function in an orientation-independent manner in reporter assays, in the native chromosome context, the orientation of at least some enhancers carrying CBSs can determine both the architecture of topological chromatin domains and enhancer/promoter specificity. These findings reveal how 3D chromosome architecture can be encoded by linear genome sequences.
Does CRISPR inversion of CTCF sites alter genome topology?
To test the functional significance of this observation, we combined CRISPR/Cas9-based genomic-DNA-fragment editing with chromosome-conformation-capture experiments to show that the location and relative orientations of CBSs determine the specificity of long-range chromatin looping in mammalian genomes, using protocadherin (Pcdh) and β-globin as model genes. Inversion of CBS elements within the Pcdh enhancer reconfigures the topology of chromatin loops between the distal enhancer and target promoters and alters gene-expression patterns. Thus, although enhancers can function in an orientation-independent manner in reporter assays, in the native chromosome context, the orientation of at least some enhancers carrying CBSs can determine both the architecture of topological chromatin domains and enhancer/promoter specificity. These findings reveal how 3D chromosome architecture can be encoded by linear genome sequences
LTF (lactotransferrin, or lactoferrin) plays important role in innate immunity, and its anti-tumor function has also been reported in multiple cancers. We previously reported that LTF is significantly down-regulated in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) and acts as a tumor suppressor by suppressing AKT signaling. However, the exact mechanism of the down-regulation of LTF in NPC has not been revealed. In the current study, we screened and identified LTF is a bona fide target of miR-214 in NPC cells. miR-214 mimics significantly suppressed LTF mRNA and protein expression levels in NPC cells. miR-214 not only can promote NPC cell proliferation and invasion abilities in vitro, but also can accelerate tumor formation and lung metastasis in a mouse xenograft model. The pro-tumor function of miR-214 was depended on LTF suppression since LTF re-expression can reverse it. miR-214 can also activate AKT signaling by suppressing LTF expression. Furthermore, miR-214 expression level was up-regulated in NPC especially in metastasis-prone NPC tumor tissues compared with normal nasopharyngeal epithelial tissues, while the LTF expression level was negatively correlated with miR-214, suggesting that miR-214 targeting is partly responsible for LTF down-regulation in NPC specimens.
Is lactotransferrin a tumour suppressor?
LTF (lactotransferrin, or lactoferrin) plays important role in innate immunity, and its anti-tumor function has also been reported in multiple cancers.
We estimated the genome-wide contribution of recessive coding variation in 6040 families from the Deciphering Developmental Disorders study. The proportion of cases attributable to recessive coding variants was 3.6% in patients of European ancestry, compared with 50% explained by de novo coding mutations. It was higher (31%) in patients with Pakistani ancestry, owing to elevated autozygosity. Half of this recessive burden is attributable to known genes. We identified two genes not previously associated with recessive developmental disorders, and , and functionally validated them with mouse and cellular models. Our results suggest that recessive coding variants account for a small fraction of currently undiagnosed nonconsanguineous individuals, and that the role of noncoding variants, incomplete penetrance, and polygenic mechanisms need further exploration.
Are recessive coding variants responsible for the majority of undiagnosed nonconsanguineous individuals?
Our results suggest that recessive coding variants account for a small fraction of currently undiagnosed nonconsanguineous individuals, and that the role of noncoding variants, incomplete penetrance, and polygenic mechanisms need further exploration.
A retrospective study in which we reviewed the hospital files of a subset of 7 patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy participating in the open-label phase I/II PRO051-02 study in Leuven. The objective of this study was to describe in detail the injection site reactions in these children treated with drisapersen (PRO-051), a 2'-O-methyl phosphorothioate RNA antisense oligonucleotide, that induces exon 51 skipping in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Antisense oligonucleotides, restoring the reading frame by skipping of exons, have become a potential treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy and other monogenetic diseases. Erythema followed by hyperpigmentation, fibrosis, and calcification were seen at the injection sites in all children. Ulcerations, which were difficult to heal, occurred in 5 of 7 children. Progression still occurred after switching to intravenous administration of drisapersen or even after stopping therapy. Systemic reactions included a reversible proteinuria and α1-microglobulinuria. Moreover, hypotrichosis was a common feature.Conclusion: Subcutaneous administration of drisapersen causes severe and progressive injection site effects. What is known: • Antisense oligonucleotides offer the possibility to convert Duchenne muscular dystrophy to the less severe Becker type. This can potentially be achieved by targeting and skipping specific exons of the Duchenne muscular dystrophy gene to restore the disrupted reading frame and to induce the production of a semi functional dystrophin protein. • Drisapersen is such an antisense oligonucleotides which can be administered subcutaneously. Its use has been tested extensively in the escalating dose pilot study (PRO051-02). What is new: • This report describes the injection site reactions caused by this type of agent in detail which has never been done before. We therefore reviewed the hospital files of 7 patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy participating in the phase I/II open-label, escalating dose pilot study (PRO051-02) with drisapersen. • Severe side effects starting with erythema, hyperpigmentation, and later fibrosis, calcification, and difficult to treat ulcerations developed in all patients, and these continued to progress even after cessation of drisapersen. We discuss some possible underlying mechanisms. The exact mechanism however is still not known.
What datasets are available related to Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?
escalating dose pilot study (PRO051-02) with drisapersen.
Checkpoint inhibitors with monoclonal antibodies targeting the CTLA-4 or PD-1 axis have revolutionized treatment in some solid tumors, especially melanoma and lung. The role of the CTLA-4 and PD-1 pathways and their inhibition in lymphoma may be different compared to solid tumors. In heavily pretreated Hodgkin lymphoma, PD-1-directed treatment has led to high remission rates. Several studies are now conducted also including diffuse large B-cell and follicular lymphoma. Besides antibody-based immunotherapy, treatment with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cells has also come back to the focus of recent studies. Clinical evidence of CAR T-cell treatment in B-cell malignancies is limited to small series, because of the dedicated resources needed. However, impressive response rates have been observed, but toxicities associated with cytokine release can be very severe and fatal. We herein review the background, early clinical evidence, and future perspectives of T-cell-directed immune manipulation for lymphomas including checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell therapies.
What are PD-1 inhibitors?
Checkpoint inhibitors with monoclonal antibodies targeting the CTLA-4 or PD-1 axis have revolutionized treatment in some solid tumors, especially melanoma and lung
Interest in DNA-intercalating ligands as anti-cancer drugs has developed greatly since the clinical success of doxorubicin. However, despite a great deal of 'rational design' of synthetic DNA-intercalators, only a few such compounds have proved clinically useful. This review briefly surveys the history of DNA-intercalators as clinically-used anti-cancer drugs, summarizes the known structure-experimental activity relationships and modes of action, and concludes that a factor in the slow progress is that much of the work on these compounds has been carried out by chemists, who were generally more interested in ligand/DNA interactions than drug development. Future development of the class rests on a careful consideration of the biochemical reasons behind the common limitations of the present drugs. The most important are: the inherent resistance of non-cycling cells, the rapid development (even by cycling cells) of resistance by the expression of both P-glycoprotein and altered topoisomerase II, limitations on drug distribution to and transport into tumours, low extravascular pH in tumours and the cardiotoxic side-effects of quinonoid chromophores. These considerations provide a set of constraints on physicochemical properties which must be considered in future design. However, within these constraints, there are useful future avenues for the development of DNA-intercalators as anti-cancer drugs. These include: (i) the production of improved topoisomerase inhibitors (by consideration of drug/protein as well as drug/DNA interactions); (ii) the development of reductively-activated chromophores as hypoxia-selective agents; and (iii) the use of DNA-intercalators of known DNA binding orientation as 'carriers' for the delivery of other reactive functionality specifically (sequence-, regio- and site-specifically) to DNA.
Can DNA intercalators function as topoisomerase inhibitors?
These include: (i) the production of improved topoisomerase inhibitors (by consideration of drug/protein as well as drug/DNA interactions); (ii) the development of reductively-activated chromophores as hypoxia-selective agents; and (iii) the use of DNA-intercalators of known DNA binding orientation as 'carriers' for the delivery of other reactive functionality specifically (sequence-, regio- and site-specifically) to DNA.
Glial tumors are malignant brain tumors that arise from glial cells of brain or spine and have genetic aberrations in their genome. 1p/19q co-deletion is associated with increased Overall Survival (OS) time with enhanced response to chemo- and radio-therapy in oligodendrogliomas. However, prognostic significance of 1p/19q co-polysomy is still unclear. We evaluated 1p/19q status of 221 patients with glial tumor by Fluorescent in situ Hybridization (FISH). Records of the patients were collected retrospectively. Our results demonstrated that 1p/19q co-polysomy was associated with decreased OS time, high P53 expression and frequently located in temporal lobe, whereas 1p/19q co-deletion was associated with increased overall survival time, low P53 expression and frontal lobe location. Furthermore, classification of patients based on both 1p/19q status and P53 expression revealed that patients with 1p/19q co-polysomy and high P53 expression had the worst prognosis. Lastly, our bioinformatic survival analysis revealed that high expression of SRM, ICMT, and FTL located in 1p36.13-p36.31 and 19q13.2-q13.33 region were related with decreased OS time in patients with Low Grade Glioma (LGG). The study demonstrated that 1p/19q co-polysomy is a poor prognostic marker for glial tumor.
The 1p19q co-deletion is associated with what types of tumors?
The study demonstrated that 1p/19q co-polysomy is a poor prognostic marker for glial tumor.