Biosynthesis and regulatory mechanism of acarbose and its structural analogs: a review / 生物工程学报

Acarbose is widely used as α-glucosidase inhibitor in the treatment of type Ⅱ diabetes. Actinoplanes sp. is used for industrial production of acarbose. As a secondary metabolite, the biosynthesis of acarbose is quite complex. In addition to acarbose, a few acarbose structural analogs are also accumulated in the culture broth of Actinoplanes sp., which are hard to remove. Due to lack of systemic understanding of the biosynthesis and regulation mechanisms of acarbose and its structural analogs, it is difficult to eliminate or reduce the biosynthesis of the structural analogs. Recently, the advances in omics technologies and molecular biology have facilitated the investigations of biosynthesis and regulatory mechanisms of acarbose and its structural analogs in Actinoplanes sp.. The genes involved in the biosynthesis of acarbose and its structural analogs and their regulatory mechanism have been extensively explored by using bioinformatics analysis, genetic manipulation and enzymatic characterization, which is summarized in this review.

Fundamentos y aplicaciones biomédicas de las principales tecnologías de secuenciación: una revisión de literatura / Biomedical Foundations and Applications of Major Sequencing Technologies: A Literature Review / Fundamentos e aplicações biomédicas das principais tecnologias de sequenciamento: uma re-visão da literatura

Introducción: el objetivo de la secuenciación es determinar la composición de los nucleótidos presentes en el ADN o el ARN. Desde la finalización del proyecto genoma humano, surgieron diversas tecnologías de secuenciación rápida como Roche 454, SOLiD, Illumina, Ion Torrent, PacBio y Oxford Nanopore, más precisas y costoeficientes, que permiten desarrollar proyectos a gran escala y estudiar genes y genomas, la composición de microbiomas, enfermedades metabólicas y enfermedades genéticas que afectan a la población. Objetivo: describir los fundamentos de los métodos de secuenciación de ADN y sus aplicaciones en las ciencias biomédicas. Métodos: revisión descriptiva de las principales estrategias de secuenciación de ADN de primera, segunda y tercera generación y su aplicación en el entorno biomédico, a partir de la búsqueda de artículos en bases de datos electró-nicas especializadas en investigación científica. Se encontraron 118 documentos, de los cuales se excluyeron 6, por no cumplir con los criterios de inclusión, y se seleccionaron 112, por cumplir con todos los requisitos. Conclusiones:el surgimiento de los métodos de secuenciación de siguiente generación arroja una gran canti-dad de datos, incluidos genomas secuenciados completamente de varias especies, con un rendimiento extenso, tiempos reducidos y costoeficiencia, que lleva a la completa transformación de las ciencias de la vida y logra un progreso sin precedentes en el análisis de genomas, la evaluación de la ecología microbiana y el diagnóstico de enfermedades.

Introduction: The purpose of sequencing is to determine the composition of the nucleotides present in DNA or RNA. Since the completion of the human genome project, several sequencing technologies such as Roche 454, SOLiD, Illumina, Ion Torrent, PacBio and Oxford Nanopore have emerged as tools for rapid sequencing, with greater precision and cost-efficiency, allowing the development of lar-ge-scale projects and the study of genes and genomes, along with the composition of microbiomes and the study of metabolic and genetic diseases that affect the population. Objective: To describe the foundations of the methods of DNA sequencing and their applications in the biomedical sciences. Methods: Descriptive review of the main strategies of first, second and third generation DNA sequencing and their application in the biomedical environment. This review was carried out by searching articles in electronic databases specialized in scientific research. A total of 118 papers were found, of which 6 were excluded as they did not meet the inclusion criteria and 112 were selected as meeting all the requirements. Conclusions: The emergence of next-generation sequencing methods yielding a wealth of data, including fully sequenced genomes of various species, with extensive throughput, reduced time and cost-effec-tiveness that has led to the complete transformation of the life sciences, achieving unprecedented progress in genome analysis, assessment of microbial ecology and disease diagnosis

Introdução: o objetivo do sequenciamento é determinar a composição dos nucleotídeos presentes no DNA ou RNA. Desde a conclusão do projeto do genoma humano, surgiram diversas tecnologias de sequenciamento rápida como Roche 454, SOLiD, Illumina, Ion Torrent, PacBio e Oxford Nanopore, mais precisas e econômicas, que permitem o desenvolvimento de projetos de grande escala e estudo de genes e genomas, composição de microbiomas, doenças metabólicas e genéticas que afetam a popula-ção. Objetivo: descrever os fundamentos dos métodos de sequenciamento de DNA e suas aplicações nas ciências biomédicas. Métodos: revisão descritiva das principais estratégias de sequenciamento de DNA de primeira, segunda e terceira geração e sua aplicação no ambiente biomédico, a partir da busca de artigos em bases de dados eletrônicas especializadas em pesquisa científica. Foram encontrados 118 documen-tos, dos quais 6 foram excluídos por não atenderem aos critérios de inclusão e 112 fo-ram seleciona-dos por atenderem a todos os requerimentos. Conclusões: o surgimento de métodos de sequenciamento de próxima geração rende uma riqueza de dados, incluindo genomas totalmente se-quenciados de várias espécies, com produção extensa, tempos reduzidos e eficiência de custo, levando à transformação completa das ciências da vida e alcançando um progresso sem precedentes no genoma análise, avaliação de ecologia microbiana e diagnóstico de doenças.

Three-dimensional chromosome conformation capture and its derived technologies / 生物工程学报

Linear chromatin is compacted into eukaryotic nucleus through a complex and multi-layered architecture. Consequently, chromatin conformation in a local or long-distance manner is strongly correlated with gene expression. Chromosome conformation capture (3C) technology, together with its variants like 4C/5C/Hi-C, has been well developed to study chromatin looping and whole genome structure. In this review, we introduce new technologies including chromosome capture combined with immunoprecipitation, nuclei acid-based hybridization, single cell and genome sequencing, as well as their application.

Comparación de métodos de extracción de ADN de Giardia spp. medidos por PCR convencional / Comparison of methods of DNA extraction from Giardia spp. measured by conventional PCR

RESUMEN Objetivos . Comparar diferentes métodos de extracción de ADN a partir de quistes y trofozoítos de Giardia spp. mediante la técnica de reacción en cadena de la polimerasa (PCR) convencional. Materiales y métodos. Se aislaron quistes de Giardia spp. a partir de 65 muestras coprológicas procedentes de hospitales de referencia nacional, obteniéndose una carga promedio de 5x104 parásitos. Asimismo, se cultivaron trofozoítos de Giardia intestinalis (ATCC® 30957™) obteniéndose una carga parasitaria de 5x106. Se compararon once métodos de extracción para quistes y seis para trofozoítos. La concentración y pureza del ADN extraído se determinó por espectrofotometría y el rendimiento de la extracción se evaluó mediante la amplificación de los genes beta giardina (bg) y glutamato deshidrogenasa (gdh) por PCR semi-anidada. Resultados. Se observó que el método I mostró la mayor concentración de ADN a partir de quistes (12,24 ng/µL), pureza (1,4) y mejor rendimiento (100% amplificación bg, 60% gdh) en comparación con los otros métodos evaluados. En el caso de los trofozoítos el método que no tuvo pretratamientos presentó la mayor concentración de ADN, pureza y rendimiento (26,56 ng/µL; 1,85; 100% amplificación bg y gdh). Conclusiones. Los pretratamientos mecánicos, de choque térmico y enzimáticos son necesarios para la ruptura de la pared quística de Giardia spp., siendo el marcador molecular bg de mayor rendimiento para detección de ADN de quistes. Los trofozoítos no requieren pretratamientos para lograr resultados satisfactorios. Se cuenta con una metodología reproducible para la extracción de ADN de Giardia spp. a partir de cualquier estadio evolutivo.

ABSTRACT Objectives. To compare different methods of DNA extraction from cysts and trophozoites of Giardia spp. using the conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Materials and Methods. Cysts of Giardia spp. were isolated from 65 coprological samples from national reference hospitals, obtaining an average load of 5x104 parasites. In addition, Giardia intestinalis trophozoites (ATCC® 30957™) were cultured obtaining a 5x106 parasitic load. Eleven extraction methods for cysts and six for trophozoites were compared. The concentration and purity of the extracted DNA were determined by spectrophotometry and the extraction yield was assessed by amplification of the ß-giardin (bg) and glutamate dehydrogenase (gdh) genes with a semi nested PCR assay. Results. It was observed that method 1 showed the highest concentration of DNA from cysts (12.24 ng/µL), purity (1.4) and best performance (bg: 100% amplification; gdh: 60% amplification) compared to the other methods evaluated. In the case of trophozoites, the method without pre treatment showed the highest level of DNA concentration, purity, and yield (26.56 ng/µL; 1.85; 100% amplification of bg and gdh, respectively). Conclusions . Mechanical, thermal shock, and enzymatic pre-treatments are necessary for the rupture of the cystic wall of Giardia spp. making it the highest-yielding bg molecular marker for detecting cyst DNA. Trophozoites do not require pre-treatment to achieve satisfactory results. A reproducible methodology for the extraction of DNA from Giardia spp. from any evolutionary stage is available.

El intersticio pulmonar y sus enfermedades en la infancia. Confusión diagnóstica en el recién nacido. Enfermedades genéticas del surfactante pulmonar. A propósito de un caso clínico: clínica, radiología, estudios y diagnóstico diferencial / The pulmonary interstitium and its diseases in childhood. Diagnostic confusion in the new born. Genetic diseases of pulmonary surfactant. About a clinical case: clinical, radiology, studies and differential diagnosis

Se presenta el caso clínico de un lactante fallecido a los siete meses de edad con cuadro intersticial persistente. Objetivos: describir detalladamente el camino diagnóstico; alertar sobre posibles confusiones en recién nacidos con diagnósticos más frecuentes; detallar los hallazgos clínicos, radiológicos y de anatomía patológica (consultas en el exterior). Metodología: sumatoria de estudios complejos para descartar causas más frecuentes de patología intersticial en el lactante; consultas radiológicas, de anatomía patológica y genética en el exterior del país. Resultado: con diagnóstico de PAP (proteinosis alveolar pulmonar) se encontró una duplicación de material genético a nivel de cromosoma X, correspondiente al gen CSF2RA (colony stimulating factor 2-subunidad a). Este gen codifica al receptor CSF2 cuya citoquina controla la producción, diferenciación y función de granulocitos/macrófagos. (AU)

A clinical case of a deceased seven month old infant presenting persistent interstitial lung compromise is presented. Objectives. Detailed description of the diagnostic pathway used; to alert about possible confusion with other ­ more frequent ­ pathologies in the new borninfant age; to present clinical, radiological, genetic and pathology findings (consultations abroad). Methodology. A complete description of complex studies to rule out other more frequent pathologies is presented together with radiological, pathological and genetic results from consultations abroad. Results. A diagnosis of PAP (pulmonary alveolar proteinosis) was confirmed with duplication of genetic material at CSF2RA gene (colony stimulating factor 2-subunit a). This gene codifies the CSF2 receptor whose cytokine controls production, differentiation and function of granulocytes/macrophages. (AU)

Clinical Implications of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Diagnosis of Asthma and its Subtypes

For the past three decades, a large number of genetic studies have been performed to examine genetic variants associated with asthma and its subtypes in hopes of gaining better understanding of the mechanisms underlying disease pathology and to identify genetic biomarkers predictive of disease outcomes. Various methods have been used to achieve these objectives, including linkage analysis, candidate gene polymorphism analysis, and genome-wide association studies (GWAS); however, the degree to which genetic variants contribute to asthma pathogenesis has proven to be much less significant than originally expected. Subsequent application of GWAS to well-defined phenotypes, such as occupational asthma and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugexacerbated respiratory diseases, has overcome some of these limitations, although with only partial success. Recently, a combinatorial analysis of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) identified by GWAS has been used to develop sets of genetic markers able to more accurately stratify asthma subtypes. In this review, we discuss the implications of the identified SNPs in diagnosis of asthma and its subtypes and the progress being made in combinatorial analysis of genetic variants.

Patologia morfológica e molecular aplicadas à inovação diagnóstica e vigilância da leishmaniose visceral / Morphological and molecular pathology applied to diagnostic innovation and surveillance of visceral leishmaniasis

O conceito de Saúde Única surgiu para ressaltar a união indissociável entre a saúde animal, humana e ambiental. Nesse contexto, a leishmaniose visceral americana (LVA) é considerada uma importante doença de saúde pública no Brasil, devido a sua crescente expansão geográfica e aumento na incidência de casos humanos. A LVA é uma doença parasitária, zoonótica, causada pela Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum (syn. chagasi) e transmitida por flebotomíneos do gênero Lutzomyia. Os cães são considerados os principais reservatórios do parasito nas áreas urbanas. O diagnóstico da LVA é baseado em aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e laboratoriais. A demonstração da presença do parasito através de exames diretos em tecidos biológicos do hospedeiro é o diagnóstico de escolha, principalmente, em municípios em que a transmissão de LVA ainda não tenha sido confirmada. Diversas metodologias podem ser aplicadas com essa finalidade. O objetivo desse trabalho é apresentar as técnicas citológicas, anatomo-patológicas e moleculares em amostras fixadas em formalina e incluídas em parafina para o diagnóstico da leishmaniose visceral em humanos e cães. Esses dados são complementares à apresentação realizada no I Simpósio Internacional de Leishmaniose Visceral, realizado nos dia 23 e 24 de Abril de 2018, e organizado pelo Instituto Adolfo Lutz em São Paulo-SP, Brasil. (AU)

The One Health concept emerged to highlight the inseparable link between animal, human and environmental health. In this context, American Visceral Leishmaniasis (AVL) is considered an important public health disease in Brazil, due to its increasing geographic expansion and in the incidence of human cases. AVL is a parasitic and zoonotic disease caused by Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum (syn. chagasi) and transmitted by sandflies of the genus Lutzomyia. Dogs are considered the main reservoirs of the parasite in urban areas. The diagnosis of AVL is based on epidemiological, clinical and laboratory aspects. The demonstration of the presence of the parasite through direct examinations in biological tissues of the host is the diagnosis of choice, mainly in municipalities where the transmission of AVL has not yet been confirmed. Several methodologies can be applied for this purpose. The objective of this work is to present the cytological, anatomopathological and molecular techniques in formalin fixed and paraffin embedded samples for the diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in humans and dogs. These data are complementary to the present study at the First International Symposium on Visceral Leishmaniasis, held on April 23 and 24, 2018, and organized by Adolfo Lutz Institute in São Paulo, Brazil. (AU)

Genetics of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) related genes have been elucidated by advanced genetic techniques. Familial autosomal dominant AD genes founded by linkage analyses are APP, PSEN1, PSEN2, ABCA7, and SORL1. Genome-wide association studies have found risk genes such as ABCA7, BIN1, CASS4, CD33, CD2AP, CELF1, CLU, CR1, DSG2, EPHA1, FERMT2, HLA-DRB5-HLA-DRB1, INPP5D, MEF2C, MS4A6A/MS4A4E, NME8, PICALM, PTK2B, SLC24A4, SORL1, and ZCWPW1. ABCA7, SORL1, TREM2, and APOE are proved to have high odds ratio (>2) in risk of AD using next generation sequencing studies. Thanks to the promising genetic techniques such as CRISPR-CAS9 and single-cell RNA sequencing opened a new era in genetics. CRISPR-CAS9 can directly link genetic knowledge to future treatment. Single-cell RNA sequencing are providing useful information on cell biology and pathogenesis of diverse diseases.

An Investigation of SDF1/CXCR4 Gene Polymorphisms in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Family-Based Study

OBJECTIVE: Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have a complex pathophysiology including genetic, inflammatory and neurodevelopmental components. We aim to investigate the relationship between ASD and gene polymorphisms of stromal cell-derived factor-1 (SDF-1) and its receptor CXC chemokine receptor-4 (CXCR4), which may affect inflammatory and neurodevelopmental processes. METHODS: 101 children diagnosed with ASD aged 2–18 and their biological parents were included in the study. All participants were assessed using an information form and the Children were assessed using Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). SDF-1 G801→A and CXCR4 C13→T polymorphisms were detected by genetic techniques. The results were evaluated using the transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) and haplotype relative risk (HRR). RESULTS: Following TDT evaluation for CXCR4, the assumption of equality was not rejected (χ²=1.385, p=0.239). HRR for the C allele was 1.037 [HRR (95%CI)=0.937 (0.450–2.387), χ²=0.007, p=0.933] and HRR for the T allele was 0.965 [HRR (95%CI)=0.965 (0.419– 2.221), χ²=1.219, p=0.270], but the findings were statistically insignificant. Based on TDT evaluation for SDF1, the assumption of equality cannot be rejected (χ²=0, p=0.999). HRR for the A allele was 0.701 [HRR (95%CI)=0.701 (0.372–1.319), χ²=1.219, p=0.270] and HRR for the G allele was 1.427 [HRR (95%CI)=1.427 (0.758–2.686), χ²=1.219, p=0.270], but the findings were statistically insignificant. CONCLUSION: The genetic screening of blood samples from mother, father and child trios could not show a significant association between SDF1/CXCR4 genes and ASD on the basis of TDT and HRR tests. More extensive genetic studies are now needed to investigate the relationship between SDF1/CXCR4 gene polymorphisms and ASD.

Diagnostic and therapeutic considerations in Turner syndrome

Newly developed genetic techniques can reveal mosaicism in individuals diagnosed with monosomy X. Noninvasive prenatal diagnosis using maternal blood can detect most fetuses with X chromosome abnormalities. Low-dose and ultralow-dose estrogen replacement therapy can achieve a more physiological endocrine milieu. However, many complicated and controversial issues with such treatment remain. Therefore, lifetime observation, long-term studies of health problems, and optimal therapeutic plans are needed for women with Turner syndrome. In this review, we discuss several diagnostic trials using recently developed genetic techniques and studies of physiological hormone replacement treatment over the last 5 years.

Genetics of hereditary nephrotic syndrome: a clinical review / 소아과

Advances in podocytology and genetic techniques have expanded our understanding of the pathogenesis of hereditary steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS). In the past 20 years, over 45 genetic mutations have been identified in patients with hereditary SRNS. Genetic mutations on structural and functional molecules in podocytes can lead to serious injury in the podocytes themselves and in adjacent structures, causing sclerotic lesions such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis or diffuse mesangial sclerosis. This paper provides an update on the current knowledge of podocyte genes involved in the development of hereditary nephrotic syndrome and, thereby, reviews genotype-phenotype correlations to propose an approach for appropriate mutational screening based on clinical aspects.

New insights into the genetics of fibromyalgia

Although debate on the concept of fibromyalgia (FM) has been vigorous ever since the classification criteria were first published, FM is now better understood and has become recognized as a disorder. Recently, FM has come to be considered a major health problem, affecting 1% to 5% of the general population. As familial aggregations have been observed among some FM patients, genetic research on FM is logical. In fact, genome-wide association studies and linkage analysis, and studies on candidate genes, have uncovered associations between certain genetic factors and FM. Genetic susceptibility is now considered to influence the etiology of FM. At the same time, novel genetic techniques, such as microRNA analysis, have been used in attempts to improve our understanding of the genetic predisposition to FM. In this article, we review recent advances in, and continuing challenges to, the identification of genes contributing to the development of, and symptom severity in, FM.

Research Progress on Application of CRISPR/Cas Genome Editing Technology in Hematological Diseases -Review / 中国实验血液学杂志

CRISPR/Cas genome editing technology is a newly developed powerful tool for genetic manipulation, which can be used to manipulate the genome at specific locations precisely, to restore the function of genetic defect cells, and to develop various disease models. In recentl years, with the advances of precise genome manipulation, CRISPR/Cas technology has been applied to many aspects of diseases research and becomes an unique tool to investigate gene function and discover new therapeutic targets for genetic diseases. Nowadays, CRISPR/Cas technology has been a hot research point in agriculture, graziery, biotechnology and medicine. This review focuses on the recent advances in CRISPR/Cas technology and its application in hematological diseases.

Chemicals as the Sole Transformers of Cell Fate

Forced expression of lineage-specific transcription factors in somatic cells can result in the generation of different cell types in a process named direct reprogramming, bypassing the pluripotent state. However, the introduction of transgenes limits the therapeutic applications of the produced cells. Numerous small-molecules have been introduced in the field of stem cell biology capable of governing self-renewal, reprogramming, transdifferentiation and regeneration. These chemical compounds are versatile tools for cell fate conversion toward desired outcomes. Cell fate conversion using small-molecules alone (chemical reprogramming) has superiority over arduous traditional genetic techniques in several aspects. For instance, rapid, transient, and reversible effects in activation and inhibition of functions of specific proteins are of the profits of small-molecules. They are cost-effective, have a long half-life, diversity on structure and function, and allow for temporal and flexible regulation of signaling pathways. Additionally, their effects could be adjusted by fine-tuning concentrations and combinations of different small-molecules. Therefore, chemicals are powerful tools in cell fate conversion and study of stem cell and chemical biology in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, transgene-free and chemical-only transdifferentiation approaches provide alternative strategies for the generation of various cell types, disease modeling, drug screening, and regenerative medicine. The current review gives an overview of the recent findings concerning transdifferentiation by only small-molecules without the use of transgenes.

Theranostic applications of phage display to control leishmaniasis: selection of biomarkers for serodiagnostics, vaccination, and immunotherapy

Phage display is a high-throughput subtractive proteomic technology used for the generation and screening of large peptide and antibody libraries. It is based on the selection of phage-fused surface-exposed peptides that recognize specific ligands and demonstrate desired functionality for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Phage display has provided unmatched tools for controlling viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections, and allowed identification of new therapeutic targets to treat cancer, metabolic diseases, and other chronic conditions. This review presents recent advancements in serodiagnostics and prevention of leishmaniasis -an important tropical parasitic disease- achieved using phage display for the identification of novel antigens with improved sensitivity and specificity. Our focus is on theranostics of visceral leishmaniasis with the aim to develop biomarker candidates exhibiting both diagnostic and therapeutic potential to fight this important, yet neglected, tropical disease.

Education to a Healthy Lifestyle Improves Symptoms and Cardiovascular Risk Factors – AsuRiesgo Study / Educação para um Estilo de Vida Saudável Melhora Sintomas e Fatores de Risco Cardiovasculares – Estudo AsuRiesgo

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are the current leading causes of death and disability globally. Objective: To assess the effects of a basic educational program for cardiovascular prevention in an unselected outpatient population. Methods: All participants received an educational program to change to a healthy lifestyle. Assessments were conducted at study enrollment and during follow-up. Symptoms, habits, ATP III parameters for metabolic syndrome, and American Heart Association’s 2020 parameters of cardiovascular health were assessed. Results: A total of 15,073 participants aged ≥ 18 years entered the study. Data analysis was conducted in 3,009 patients who completed a second assessment. An improvement in weight (from 76.6 ± 15.3 to 76.4 ± 15.3 kg, p = 0.002), dyspnea on exertion NYHA grade II (from 23.4% to 21.0%) and grade III (from 15.8% to 14.0%) and a decrease in the proportion of current active smokers (from 3.6% to 2.9%, p = 0.002) could be documented. The proportion of patients with levels of triglycerides > 150 mg/dL (from 46.3% to 42.4%, p < 0.001) and LDL cholesterol > 100 mg/dL (from 69.3% to 65.5%, p < 0.001) improved. A ≥ 20% improvement of AHA 2020 metrics at the level graded as poor was found for smoking (-21.1%), diet (-29.8%), and cholesterol level (-23.6%). A large dropout as a surrogate indicator for low patient adherence was documented throughout the first 5 visits, 80% between the first and second assessments, 55.6% between the second and third assessments, 43.6% between the third and fourth assessments, and 38% between the fourth and fifth assessments. Conclusion: A simple, basic educational program may improve symptoms and modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, but shows low patient adherence. .

Fundamentos: As doenças cardiovasculares são, atualmente, as maiores causas de óbito e incapacitação em todo o mundo. Objetivos: Avaliar os efeitos de um programa educativo básico para prevenção cardiovascular em uma população de pacientes ambulatoriais não selecionados. Métodos: Todos os participantes frequentaram um programa educativo de mudança para um estilo de vida saudável. Foram realizadas avaliações à admissão no estudo e durante o acompanhamento. Foram avaliados sintomas, hábitos, parâmetros do ATP III para síndrome metabólica e parâmetros da American Heart Association 2020 para saúde cardiovascular. Resultados: Foram incluídos no estudo 15.073 participantes com idade ≥ 18 anos. Foi feita a análise de dados dos 3.009 pacientes que completaram a segunda avaliação. Foram documentados perda de peso (de 76,6 ± 15,3 para 76,4 ± 15,3 kg, p = 0,002), melhora da dispneia aos esforços graus II-NYHA (de 23,4% para 21,0%) e III (de 15,8% para 14,0%), e redução na proporção de fumantes ativos atuais (de 3,6% para 2,9%, p = 0,002). Houve melhora na proporção de pacientes com níveis de triglicérides > 150 mg/dL (de 46,3% para 42,4%, p < 0,001) e de colesterol LDL > 100 mg/dL (de 69,3% para 65,5%, p < 0,001). Houve melhora ≥ 20% na métrica AHA 2020 no nível classificado como ruim para tabagismo (-21,1%), alimentação (-29,8%), e nível de colesterol (23,6%). Foi documentada grande evasão como indicador substituto para baixa adesão de paciente nas primeiras 5 consultas, sendo 80% entre a primeira e a segunda avaliação, 55,6% entre a segunda e a terceira, 43,6% entre a terceira e a quarta, e 38% entre a quarta e a quinta. Conclusão: Um programa educativo básico e simples pode melhorar os sintomas e fatores de risco cardiovasculares modificáveis, mas conta com pouca adesão por parte dos pacientes. .

Progress of DNA-based Methods for Species Identification / 法医学杂志

Species identification of biological samples is widely used in such fields as forensic science and food industry. A variety of accurate and reliable methods have been developed in recent years. The current review shows common target genes and screening criteria suitable for species identification, and described various DNA-based molecular biology methods about species identification. Additionally, it discusses the future development of species identification combined with real-time PCR and sequencing technologies.

Genetics of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease / 대한뇌졸중학회지

Cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) is an important cause of stroke and cognitive impairment among the elderly and is a more frequent cause of stroke in Asia than in the US or Europe. Although traditional risk factors such as hypertension or diabetes mellitus are important in the development of cerebral SVD, the exact pathogenesis is still uncertain. Both, twin and family history studies suggest heritability of sporadic cerebral SVD, while the candidate gene study and the genome-wide association study (GWAS) are mainly used in genetic research. Robust associations between the candidate genes and occurrence of various features of sporadic cerebral SVD, such as lacunar infarction, intracerebral hemorrhage, or white matter hyperintensities, have not yet been elucidated. GWAS, a relatively new technique, overcomes several shortcomings of previous genetic techniques, enabling the detection of several important genetic loci associated with cerebral SVD. In addition to the more common, sporadic cerebral SVD, several single-gene disorders causing cerebral SVD have been identified. The number of reported cases is increasing as the clinical features become clear and diagnostic examinations are more readily available. These include cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy, cerebral autosomal recessive arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy, COL4A1-related cerebral SVD, autosomal dominant retinal vasculopathy with cerebral leukodystrophy, and Fabry disease. These rare single-gene disorders are expected to play a crucial role in our understanding of cerebral SVD pathogenesis by providing animal models for the identification of cellular, molecular, and biochemical changes underlying cerebral small vessel damage.

Identificação de mutações nos genes APC e MUTYH em famílias com polipose adenomatosa intestinal / Mutational screening of APC and MUTYH genes in families with adenomatous polyposis

Atualmente, pacientes com múltiplos adenomas colorretais são avaliados para mutações germinativas em dois genes, APC e MUTYH. Pacientes com mutações em APC apresentam Polipose Adenomatosa Familiar Clássica ou Atenuada (FAP/AFAP), enquanto que pacientes portadores de mutações bialélicas em MUTYH apresentam Polipose Associada ao MUTYH (MAP). O espectro das mutações em APC e MUTYH, assim como as correlações genótipo-fenótipo nestas síndromes, apresentam importante impacto clínico e podem ser distintas em cada população, tornando necessária a obtenção de dados genéticos e clínicos de diferentes populações. Além disso, cerca de 10-15% dos pacientes com polipose não apresentam mutações nesses genes, o que sugere a existência de outros genes de predisposição ainda desconhecidos. Assim, os objetivos deste estudo foram caracterizar mutações germinativas nos genes APC e MUTYH em pacientes Brasileiros com polipose, além de identificar novos genes associados com a síndrome através de sequenciamento de exoma dos pacientes negativos. No total, 23 pacientes não relacionados foram avaliados para mutações pontuais na região codificante dos genes APC e MUTYH através de sequenciamento capilar, e para rearranjos genômicos nos mesmos genes por meio de MLPA (Multiplex Ligation-Dependent Probe Amplification), arrays de hibridação genômica comparativa (CGH-array), e PCR duplex quantitativo. Este último método de avaliação do número de cópias genômicas foi desenvolvido e validado no presente estudo. Foram identificados 21 pacientes mutados nesta coorte (91%) - 6 pacientes apresentaram mutações patogênicas em MUTYH, 14 apresentaram mutações patogênicas em APC e um paciente foi portador de uma nova variante missense de significado clínico desconhecido em APC (p.Val1789Leu); seis mutações foram descritas pela primeira vez neste trabalho. Em um destes pacientes identificamos a primeira grande deleção genômica descrita no gene MUTYH. Correlações genótipo-fenótipo dos dados...

Patients with multiple colorectal adenomas are currently screened for germline mutations in two genes, APC and MUTYH. APC-mutated patients present classic or attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP/ AFAP), while patients carrying biallelic MUTYH mutations exhibit MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP). The spectrum of APC and MUTYH mutations as well as the genotype-phenotype correlations in polyposis syndromes present clinical impact and can be population specific, making important to obtain genetic and clinical data from different populations. Furthermore, up to 10-15% of polyposis patients do not harbor mutations in these genes, suggesting that other yet unknown polyposis-predisposing genes could exist. Thus, the aim of this study was to characterize germline mutations in APC and MUTYH genes in Brazilian polyposis and to investigate novel susceptibility genes by exome sequencing of negative patients. At total, 23 unrelated polyposis patients were screened for APC/MUTYH point mutations through DNA capillary sequencing, and for APC and MUTYH genomic rearrangements through MLPA (multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification), array-comparative genomic hybridization, and duplex quantitative PCR. This last gene dosage method was developed and validated in this study. We identified 21 mutated patients in this cohort (91%) – 6 patients carried MUTYH pathogenic mutations, 14 carried APC pathogenic mutations and one carried a novel APC missense variant of unknown clinical significance (p.Val1789Leu); six mutations were described for the first time in this series. One of these patients harbored the first large genomic deletion identified in MUTYH gene...

Diagnóstico molecular da infecção por hemoplasmas em gatos domésticos naturalmente infectados da cidade de Belém, Pará / Molecular diagnosis of haemoplasmas infection in naturally infected domestic cats from Belém, Pará

Mycoplasma haemofelis, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' e 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' são os agentes causadores da micoplasmose felina, que podem causar anemia aguda ou crônica. O objetivo deste trabalho foi determinar a ocorrência de hemoplasmas em gatos domésticos de Belém, Pará. Para isso, 201 gatos foram divididos em três grupos: Grupo A foi composto por 101 gatos de rua capturados pelo Centro de Controle de Zoonoses, o grupo B foi composto por 62 gatos domiciliados e saudáveis e o grupo C foi composto por 38 gatos domiciliados que apresentavam alguma afecção clínica. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue para a realização de Reação em Cadeia pela Polimerase (PCR) para detectar o DNA destes agentes, os quais foram sequenciados e alinhados. A análise estatística foi realizada para detectar a associação entre a infecção, o sexo dos animais e os grupos experimentais. O DNA de pelo menos uma das espécies de hemoplasmas pesquisados foi detectado em 19,9% (40/201) das amostras, sendo o DNA de 'Candidatus M. haemominutum' encontrado em 7,96% (16/201) das amostras, M. haemofelis em 1,49% (3/201) das amostras, enquanto que o DNA de 'Candidatus M. turicensis' foi detectado em 12,93% (26/201) das amostras. O DNA destes três agentes foi detectado em gatos dos grupos A e C, enquanto que no grupo B foi detectado apenas 'Candidatus M. turicensis' e 'Candidatus M. haemominutum' Foi detectada a influência do sexo sobre a infecção hemoplasmas apenas entre 'Candidatus M. haemominutum' e machos. Estes resultados mostraram que os hemoplasmas circulam entre os gatos domésticos em Belém e 'Candidatus M. turicensis' e 'Candidatus M. haemominutum' foram mais comuns do que M. haemofelis, especialmente em gatos vadios.

Mycoplasma haemofelis, 'Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum' and 'Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis' are the causative agent of the feline mycoplasmosis, which could cause acute or chronic anemia. The aim of this work was to determine the occurrence of hemoplamas in domestic cats from Belém, Pará. To this, 201 cats were divided into three groups: Group A were composed by 101 stray cats captured by Zoonosis Control Center, group B were composed by 62 owners healthy cats and group C were composed by 38 owners cats that were suffering by some medical condition. Blood samples were collected to perform Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to detect the DNA of these agents, which were sequenced and aligned. Statistical analysis was performed to detect association between the infection, the sex of the animals and experimental groups. The DNA of at least one of the hemoplasmas studied were detected in 19,9% (40/201) of the samples, being the DNA of 'Candidatus M. haemominutum' was found in 7.96% (16/201) of samples, M. haemofelis in 1.49% (3/201) of samples, while 'Candidatus M. turicensis' in 12.93% (26/201) of the samples. The DNA of these three agents was detected in cats from groups A and C, while in Group B was detected only 'Candidatus M. turicensis' and 'Candidatus M. haemominutum'. The influence of sex on hemoplasma infection was detected only between 'Candidatus M. haemominutum' and males. These findings showed that hemoplasma circulate among domestic cats in Belém, and 'Candidatus M. turicensis' and 'Candidatus M. haemominutum' were more common than M. haemofelis, especially in stray cats.