Effect of vitamin D binding protein gene polymorphism on susceptibility and prognosis of severe acute pancreatitis / 中华危重病急救医学

OBJECTIVE@#To investigate the effect of vitamin D binding protein (DBP) gene polymorphism on susceptibility and prognosis of severe acute pancreatitis (SAP).@*METHODS@#A prospective study was conducted. Eighty-three patients with SAP who were admitted to the department of general surgery of Tianjin Fifth Central Hospital from March 2018 to March 2021 were selected as the research objects, and 83 healthy people in the same period were selected as controls. Peripheral blood RNA was extracted and reverse transcribed into cDNA, and the genotype and allele frequency of DBP gene rs7041 locus were detected by fluorescence quantitative analyzer. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was used to test the genetic balance. On the day of admission, serum C-reactive protein (CRP) level was detected by scattering immunoturbidimetry, serum procalcitonin (PCT) level was detected by electrochemiluminescence, serum DBP level was detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was calculated automatically by the instrument. The length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, the length of hospital stay and prognosis during hospitalization of patients were statistically analyzed. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis was used to screen the influencing factors of SAP occurrence.@*RESULTS@#The results of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium test showed that the distribution of gene polymorphisms in the two groups of subjects conformed to the law of genetic equilibrium. The frequencies of TT genotype and T allele of DBP gene rs7041 locus in the patients of SAP group were significantly higher than those in the healthy control group [TT genotype: 34.94% (29/83) vs. 9.64% (8/83), T allele: 55.42% (92/166) vs. 38.55% (64/166), both P < 0.01], and the frequency of GT genotype was significantly lower than that in the healthy control group [40.96% (34/83) vs. 57.83% (48/83), P < 0.05]. There was no significant difference in the frequency of GG genotype between the healthy control group and SAP group [32.53% (27/83) vs. 24.10% (20/83), P > 0.05]. Further multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that TT genotype [odds ratio (OR) = 2.831, 95% confidence interval (95%CI) was 1.582-5.067, P < 0.001] and T allele (OR = 2.533, 95%CI was 1.435-4.472, P < 0.001) of DBP gene rs7041 locus were independent risk factors for SAP in healthy people, while GT genotype was a protective factor for SAP (OR = 0.353, 95%CI was 0.143-0.868, P = 0.041). The levels of CRP, PCT, NLR and DBP in patients with TT genotype of DBP gene rs7041 locus were significantly higher than those in patients with GG/GT genotype on the day of admission in SAP group [CRP (mg/L): 43.25±13.25 vs. 31.86±12.83, PCT (μg/L): 1.53±0.24 vs. 1.21±0.20, NLR: 3.15±0.53 vs. 2.71±0.48, DBP (μg/L): 87.78±19.64 vs. 70.58±18.67, all P < 0.01]. The length of ICU stay in patients with TT genotype of DBP gene rs7041 locus in SAP group was significantly longer than that in patients with GG/GT genotype (days: 11.35±1.58 vs. 9.71±1.35, P < 0.01). The length of hospital stay of patients with TT genotype was longer than that of patients with GG/GT genotype (days: 23.41±3.64 vs. 23.17±3.57), and the in-hospital mortality was higher than that of patients with GG/GT genotype [34.48% (10/29) vs. 29.63% (16/54)], but the difference was not statistically significant (both P > 0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#The risk of SAP was significantly increased in patients with TT genotype of rs7041 locus of DBP gene, and the mechanism may be related to the increase of DBP expression. And carrying the TT genotype will prolong the ICU hospitalization time of SAP patients, but the effect on prognosis is not obvious.

Correlation between urine vitamin D -binding protein and early -stage renal damage in Type 2 diabetes / 中南大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVES@#The excretion of urinary vitamin D-binding protein (uVDBP) is related to the occurrence and development of early-stage renal damage in patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2DM). This study aims to explore the significance of detecting uVDBP in T2DM patients and its relationship with renal tubules, and to provide a new direction for the early diagnosis of T2DM renal damage.@*METHODS@#A total of 105 patients with T2DM, who met the inclusion criteria, were included as a patient group, and recruited 30 individuals as a normal control group. The general information and blood and urine biochemical indicators of all subjects were collected; the levels of uVDBP, and a marker of tubular injury [urine kidney injury molecule 1 (uKIM-1), urine neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (uNGAL) and urine retinol-binding protein (uRBP)] were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The results were corrected by urinary creatinine (Cr) to uVDBP/Cr, uKIM-1/Cr, uNGAL/Cr and uRBP/Cr. The Pearson's and Spearman's correlation tests were used to analyze the correlation between uVDBP/Cr and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and markers of tubular injury, and multivariate linear regression and receiver operating characteristic curve were used to analyze the correlation between uVDBP/Cr and UACR or eGFR.@*RESULTS@#Compared with the normal control group, the uVDBP/Cr level in the patient group was increased (P<0.05), and which was positively correlated with UACR (r=0.774, P<0.01), and negatively correlated with eGFR (r=-0.397, P<0.01). There were differences in the levels of uKIM-1/Cr, uNGAL/Cr, and uRBP/Cr between the 2 groups (all P<0.01). The uVDBP/Cr was positively correlated with uKIM-1/Cr (r=0.752, P<0.01), uNGAL/Cr (r=0.644, P<0.01) and uRBP/Cr (r=0.812, P<0.01). The sensitivity was 90.0% and the specificity was 82.9% (UACR>30 mg/g) for evaluation of uVDBP/Cr on T2DM patients with early-stage renal damage, while the sensitivity was 75.0% and the specificity was 72.6% for evaluation of eGFR on T2DM patients with early-stage renal damage.@*CONCLUSIONS@#The uVDBP/Cr can be used as a biomarker in early-stage renal damage in T2DM patients.

Genetic, sociodemographic and lifestyle factors associated with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in Brazilian adults: the Pró-Saúde Study / Fatores genéticos, sociodemográficos e de estilo de vida nas concentrações séricas de 25-hidroxivitamina D em adultos brasileiros: o Estudo Pró-Saúde / Factores genéticos, sociodemográficos y estilo de vida asociados con la concentración sérica 25-hidroxivitamina D en adultos brasileños: Estudio Pro-Salud

This study aims to investigate factors associated with serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration in Brazilian adults considering sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, as well as vitamin D-related single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This is a cross-sectional study (n = 491; 34-79y; 251 women), nested within a prospective cohort (Pró-Saúde Study). Associations between serum 25(OH)D and sociodemographic characteristics, diet, use of supplement, physical activity, season of blood collection, body fat, skin type, sun exposure index, and SNPs CYP2R1-rs10741657 and GC-rs2282679 were explored by multiple linear regression. The prevalence of serum 25(OH)D < 50nmol/L was 55%. Serum 25(OH)D was lower among women (β = -4.38; 95%CI: -8.02; -0.74), those with higher visceral fat (β = -4.02; 95%CI: -5.92; -2.12), and those with AC and CC genotypes for GC-rs2282679 (β = -6.84; 95%CI: -10.09; -3.59; β = -10.63; 95%CI: -17.52; -3.74, respectively). Factors directly associated with serum 25(OH)D included summer (β = 20.14; 95%CI: 14.38; 25.90), intermediate skin type (β = 6.16; 95%CI: 2.52; 9.80), higher sun exposure (β = 0.49; 95%CI: 0.22; 0.75), vitamin D intake (β = 0.48; 95%CI: 0.03; 0.93), and physical activity (β = 4.65; 95%CI: 1.54; 7.76). Besides physical activity, diet, and sun exposure, non-modifiable factors, such as GC genotypes must be considered when evaluating vitamin D insufficiency in mixed-race populations. Moreover, high visceral fat in association with poorer vitamin D status deserve attention given that both conditions are unfavorably related with chronic and acute health outcomes.

Este estudo teve como objetivo investigar fatores associados com as concentrações séricas de 25-hidroxivitamina [25(OH)D] em adultos brasileiros de acordo com fatores sociodemográficos e de estilo de vida, assim como de polimorfismos de nucleotídeo único (SNPs) relacionados à vitamina D. Este é um estudo transversal (n = 491; 34-79 anos; 251 mulheres) aninhado em uma coorte prospectiva (Estudo Pró-Saúde). Associações entre a 25(OH)D sérica e características sociodemográficas, consumo alimentar, uso de suplementos, atividade física, estação do ano na coleta da amostra de sangue, gordura corporal, fototipo de pele, índice de exposição solar e SNPs CYP2R1-rs10741657 e GC-rs2282679, explorados por regressão multilinear. A prevalência de 25(OH)D sérica < 50nmol/L foi 55%. A concentração sérica de 25(OH)D foi menor entre mulheres (β = -4,38; IC95%: -8,02; -0,74), indivíduos com mais gordura visceral (β = -4,02; IC95%: -5,92; -2,12) e genótipos AC e CC para GC-rs2282679 (β = -6,84; IC95%: -10,09; -3,59 e β = -10,63; IC95%: -17,52; -3,74, respectivamente). Os fatores associados diretamente à 25(OH)D sérica incluíram os meses de verão (β = 20,14; IC95%: 14,38; 25,90), fototipo intermediário (β = 6,16; IC95%: 2,52; 9,80), maior exposição solar (β = 0,49; IC95%: 0,22; 0,75), ingestão de vitamina D (β = 0,48; IC95%: 0,03; 0,93) e atividade física (β = 4,65; IC95%: 1,54; 7,76). Além de atividade física, dieta e exposição solar, fatores não modificáveis, tais como variantes do gene GC devem ser considerados na avaliação da deficiência de vitamina D em populações miscigenadas. Além disso, merece atenção a associação entre a gordura visceral elevada e o pior estado de vitamina D, uma vez que ambas as condições implicam em desfechos de saúde desfavoráveis, tanto crônicos quanto agudos.

Nuestro objetivo fue investigar factores asociados con la concentración sérica 25-hidroxivitamina D [25(OH)D] en adultos brasileños, considerando factores sociodemográficos y de vida, así como también los polimorfismos de nucleótido único relacionados con la vitamina D (SNPs). Se trata de un estudio transversal (n = 491; 34-79 años; 251 mujeres), anidado dentro de una cohorte prospectiva (Estudio Pro-Salud). Se investigaron las asociaciones entre concentración sérica 25(OH)D y características sociodemográficas, ingesta alimentaria, uso de suplementos, actividad física, estación del año de recogida de muestras de sangre, grasa corporal, tipo de piel, índice de exposición al sol, y SNPs CYP2R1-rs10741657 y GC-rs2282679 mediante una regresión múltiple lineal. La prevalencia sérica 25(OH)D < 50nmol/L fue 55%. La 25(OH)D sérica fue menor entre las mujeres (β = -4,38; IC95%: -8,02; -0,74), quienes tenían alta grasa visceral (β = -4,02; IC95%: -5,92; -2,12), genotipos AC y CC para GC-rs2282679 (β = -6,84; IC95%: -10,09; -3,59 y β = -10,63; IC95%: -17,52; -3,74, respectivamente). Los factores directamente asociados con la concentración sérica 25(OH)D incluyeron verano (β = 20,14; IC95%: 14,38; 25,90), tipo de piel intermedia (β = 6,16; IC95%: 2,52; 9,80), más alta exposición al sol (β = 0,49; IC95%: 0,22; 0,75), toma de vitamina D (β = 0,48; IC95%: 0,03; 0,93) y actividad física (β = 4,65; IC95%: 1,54; 7,76). Además de la actividad física, dieta y exposición al sol, los factores no modificables, tales como genotipos GC, necesitan tenerse en cuenta cuando se está evaluando la insuficiencia de vitamina D en poblaciones mestizas. Asimismo, las implicaciones de la asociación de una alta grasa visceral con un estatus más pobre de vitamina D merece que se le preste atención, puesto que ambas condiciones de salud están relacionadas desfavorablemente con resultados de salud graves y crónicos.

Vitamin D, vitamin D binding protein, vitamin D receptor levels and cardiac dysautonomia in patients with multiple sclerosis: a cross-sectional study / Vitamina D, proteína de ligação à vitamina D, níveis de receptores de vitamina D e disautonomia cardíaca em pacientes com esclerose múltipla: um estudo transversal

ABSTRACT Vitamin D is a pleiotropic steroid hormone that modulates the autonomic balance. Its deficiency has been described as an environmental risk factor for multiple sclerosis (MS). The aim of this study was to investigate the serum levels of vitamin D, vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) and vitamin D receptors (VDR) and to evaluate cardiac dysautonomia in MS patients due to bidirectional interaction between vitamin D and the autonomic nervous system. Methods: The current cross-sectional study was conducted on 26 patients with relapsing-remitting MS and on 24 healthy controls. Twenty-four-hour ambulatory blood pressure variability (BPV) was calculated and the participants were evaluated for orthostatic hypotension and supine hypertension. Serum levels of vitamin D, VDBP and VDR were measured. Results: The mean serum vitamin D level was significantly lower in MS patients than in controls (p = 0.044); however there was no significant difference in terms of VDR and VDBP levels between the groups. Supine hypertension and orthostatic hypotension were significant and the 24-hour systolic BPV was significantly decreased in patients with MS (p < 0.05) compared to controls. No correlation was found between vitamin D, VDBP and VDR with supine hypertension, orthostatic hypotension and systolic BPV values (p > 0.05). Also, there was a negative correlation between VDBP and the EDSS (p = 0.039, r = −0.406). Conclusion: There was no correlation between orthostatic hypotension, supine hypertension and systolic BPV values and serum vitamin D, VDBP and VDR in MS patients. Future prospective studies with large number of patients may help us to better understand the relationship between vitamin D and the autonomic nervous system.

RESUMO A vitamina D é um hormônio esteroide pleiotrópico que modula o equilíbrio autonômico. Sua deficiência tem sido descrita como fator de risco ambiental para esclerose múltipla (EM). O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar os níveis séricos de vitamina D, proteína de ligação à vitamina D (VDBP) e receptor de vitamina D (VDR) e avaliar a disautonomia cardíaca em pacientes com EM devida à interação bidirecional entre vitamina D e sistema nervoso autônomo. Métodos: O presente estudo transversal foi realizado em 26 pacientes com EM remitente-recorrente e em 24 controles saudáveis. A variabilidade da pressão arterial ambulatorial (BPV) por 24 horas foi calculada e os participantes foram avaliados quanto à hipotensão ortostática e hipertensão supina. Os níveis séricos de vitamina D, VDBP e VDR foram medidos. Resultados: O nível sérico médio de vitamina D foi significativamente menor nos pacientes com EM do que nos controles (p = 0,044); no entanto, não houve diferença significativa em termos de níveis de VDR e VDBP entre os grupos. Hipertensão supina e hipotensão ortostática foram significativas e a BPV sistólica de 24 horas diminuiu significativamente em pacientes com EM (p < 0,05) em comparação aos controles. Não foi encontrada correlação entre vitamina D, VDBP e VDR com hipertensão supina, hipotensão ortostática e BPV sistólica (p > 0,05). Também houve correlação negativa entre VDBP e EDSS (p = 0,039, r = −0,406). Conclusão: Não houve correlação entre hipotensão ortostática, hipertensão supina e valores de BPV sistólica e vitamina D sérica, VDBP e VDR em pacientes com EM. Futuros estudos prospectivos com grande número de pacientes podem nos ajudar a entender melhor a relação entre vitamina D e sistema nervoso autônomo.

Differences in 25-hydroxy vitamin D and vitamin D-binding protein concentrations according to the severity of endometriosis / 대한생식의학회지

OBJECTIVE: To investigate serum 25-hydroxyl vitamin D (25(OH)D) and vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP) concentrations in women with endometriosis according to the severity of disease. METHODS: Women with mild endometriosis (n = 9) and advanced endometriosis (n = 7), as well as healthy controls (n = 16), were enrolled in this observational study. Serum total 25(OH)D concentrations were analyzed using the Elecsys vitamin D total kit with the Cobas e602 module. Concentrations of bioavailable and free 25(OH)D were calculated. Concentrations of VDBP were measured using the Human Vitamin D BP Quantikine ELISA kit. Variables were tested for normality and homoscedasticity using the Shapiro-Wilk test and Leven F test, respectively. Correlation analysis was used to identify the variables related to total 25(OH)D and VDBP levels. To assess the effects of total 25(OH)D and VDBP levels in the three groups, multivariate generalized additive modeling (GAM) was performed. RESULTS: Gravidity and parity were significantly different across the three groups. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and CA-125 levels increased as a function of endometriosis severity, respectively (p= 0.051, p= 0.004). The correlation analysis showed that total 25(OH)D levels were positively correlated with gravidity (r = 0.59, p< 0.001) and parity (r = 0.51, p< 0.003). Multivariate GAM showed no significant relationship of total 25(OH)D levels with EMT severity after adjusting for gravidity and ESR. However, the coefficient of total 25(OH)D levels with gravidity was significant (1.87; 95% confidence interval, 0.12–3.63; p= 0.040). CONCLUSION: These results indicate that vitamin D and VDBP levels were not associated with the severity of endometriosis.

Analysis of vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP) gene polymorphisms in Korean women with and without endometriosis / 대한생식의학회지

OBJECTIVE: Vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP) mediates various biological processes in humans. The goal of this study was to investigate whether VDBP gene polymorphisms could predispose Korean women to endometriosis. METHODS: We prospectively enrolled women with endometriosis (n = 16) and healthy controls (n = 16). Total serum 25-hydroxyl vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations were measured using an Elecsys vitamin D total kit. Levels of bioavailable and free 25(OH)D were calculated. Concentrations of VDBP were measured using a vitamin D BP Quantikine ELISA kit. DNA was extracted using a DNeasy blood & tissue kit. Two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; rs4588 and rs7041) in GC, the gene that codes for VDBP, were analyzed using a TaqMan SNP genotyping assay kit. The functional variant of VDBP was determined based on the results of the two SNPs. RESULTS: Gravidity and parity were significantly lower in the endometriosis patients than in the control group, but serum CA-125 levels and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate were significantly higher. Total serum 25(OH)D levels in the endometriosis patients were significantly lower than in the control group. However, serum bioavailable 25(OH)D, free 25(OH)D, and VDBP levels did not differ significantly between the endometriosis and control groups. The genotypes and allele frequencies of GC were similar in both groups. CONCLUSION: Korean women with endometriosis had lower total serum 25(OH)D concentrations than controls. Neither serum VDBP concentrations nor polymorphisms in the gene coding for VDBP were associated with endometriosis. Further studies are needed to investigate the pathophysiology and clinical implications of 25(OH)D and VDBP in endometriosis.

Clinical Utility of Measurement of Vitamin D-Binding Protein and Calculation of Bioavailable Vitamin D in Assessment of Vitamin D Status

BACKGROUND: The associations of vitamin D deficiency with various clinical conditions highlighted the importance of vitamin D testing. Currently, clinicians measure only the total 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration, regardless of its bioavailability. We aimed to determine the effect of vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP) on 25(OH)D bioavailability. METHODS: Serum samples were collected from 60 healthy controls, 50 pregnant women, and 50 patients in intensive care units (ICUs). Total 25(OH)D was quantified by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, and VDBP levels were determined by using an ELISA kit (R&D Systems, USA). The bioavailable 25(OH)D levels were calculated by using total 25(OH)D, VDBP, and albumin concentrations. RESULTS: In comparison with healthy controls, the total 25(OH)D concentration was significantly lower in ICU patients (median, 11.65 vs 18.25 ng/mL; P<0.00001), but no significant difference was noted between pregnant women (18.25 ng/mL) and healthy controls. The VDBP level was significantly lower in ICU patients (95.58 vs 167.18 µg/mL, P=0.0002) and higher in pregnant women (225.01 vs 167.18 µg/mL, P=0.008) compared with healthy controls. Nonetheless, the calculated bioavailable 25(OH)D levels of ICU patients and pregnant women were significantly lower than those of healthy controls (1.97 and 1.93 ng/mL vs 2.56 ng/mL; P=0.0073 and 0.0027). CONCLUSIONS: A single marker of the total 25(OH)D level is not sufficient to accurately evaluate vitamin D status, especially in pregnant women. In cases where VDBP concentrations may be altered, VDBP measurements and bioavailable 25(OH)D calculations may help to determine vitamin D status accurately.

N-glycoproteomic analysis of human follicular fluid during natural and stimulated cycles in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization / 대한생식의학회지

OBJECTIVE: Hyperstimulation methods are broadly used for in vitro fertilization (IVF) in patients with infertility; however, the side effects associated with these therapies, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), have not been well studied. N-glycoproteomes are subproteomes used for the remote sensing of ovarian stimulation in follicular growth. Glycoproteomic variation in human follicular fluid (hFF) has not been evaluated. In this study, we aimed to identify and quantify the glycoproteomes and N-glycoproteins (N-GPs) in natural and stimulated hFF using label-free nano-liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization-quad time-of-flight mass spectrometry. METHODS: For profiling of the total proteome and glycoproteome, pooled protein samples from natural and stimulated hFF samples were selectively isolated using hydrazide chemistry to obtain the total proteomes and glycoproteomes. N-GPs were validated by the consensus sequence N-X-S/T (92.2% specificity for the N-glycomotif at p<0.05). All data were compared between natural versus hyperstimulated hFF samples. RESULTS: We detected 41 and 44 N-GPs in the natural and stimulated hFF samples, respectively. Importantly, we identified 11 N-GPs with greater than two-fold upregulation in stimulated hFF samples compared to natural hFF samples. We also validated the novel N-GPs thyroxine-binding globulin, vitamin D-binding protein, and complement proteins C3 and C9. CONCLUSION: We identified and classified N-GPs in hFF to improve our understanding of follicular physiology in patients requiring assisted reproduction. Our results provided important insights into the prevention of hyperstimulation side effects, such as OHSS.

A lack of association between vitamin D-binding protein and 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in pediatric type 1 diabetes without microalbuminuria

PURPOSE: Vitamin D deficiency is reported to be more common in type 1 diabetes patients and might be associated with the increased urinary loss of vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) consequent to impaired 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) circulation. We aimed to evaluate the possible increased urinary loss of VDBP, a correlation between VDBP and circulating 25(OH)D level, and risk factors influencing low vitamin D level in pediatric type 1 diabetes patients without microalbuminuria. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study of subjects who visited Seoul National University Children’s Hospital between January and March 2013. Forty-two type 1 diabetes patients and 29 healthy controls were included. Biochemical parameters including serum and urine VDBP concentrations were analyzed. RESULTS: There was no significant difference in the frequency of vitamin D deficiency or serum 25(OH)D level between the 2 groups. The serum and urine VDBP concentrations did not show any difference between the 2 groups. Serum 25(OH) D level did not correlate with serum or urine VDBP. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that daylight outdoor hours (β=2.948, P=0.003) and vitamin D intake (β=2.865, P=0.003) affected the 25(OH)D level; the presence of type 1 diabetes or urinary VDBP excretion was not significant. CONCLUSIONS: In pediatric type 1 diabetes patients, urinary VDBP excretion did not contribute to low serum 25(OH)D level in the setting of normoalbuminuria. The factors associated with 25(OH)D level during winter periods were daylight outdoor hours and vitamin D intake. Further studies including both micro- and macroalbuminuria patients with type 1 diabetes are warranted.

Prognostic value of Gc-globulin in Chinese patients with acute-on-chronic Hepatitis B liver failure

To determine dynamic Gc-globulin level change in Acute-on-Chronic Hepatitis B Liver Failure [ACHBLF] patients, and evaluate the prognostic value of Gc-globulin. An analytical study. The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China, from January 2010 to December 2012. A total of 54 consecutive Chinese ACHBLF patients and 30 healthy volunteers as controls were recruited from 2010 to 2012. The patients were divided into improved group and aggravated group. Gc-globulin levels were determined in both groups and mean values compared with significance at p < 0.05. Cut-off value was also determined. The Gc-globulin level was significantly decreased in ACHBLF patients [p < 0.001]. Gc-globulin levels were significantly higher in improved patients than in aggravated patients, and a 215 mg/L cut-off value carried the best prognostic information. On longitudinal observations, Gc-globulin gradually elevated in improved groups. However, in aggravated groups, the Gc-globulin levels were always below normal levels and no significant change was observed before or after the treatment [p > 0.05]. Gc-globulin monitoring offers a rapid and accurate method to estimate treatment outcomes on admission and an effective temporal indicator of curative effects in ACHBLF patients at an optimal cut-off value of 215 mg/L

Relationship of Vitamin D Binding Protein Polymorphisms and Lung Function in Korean Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

PURPOSE: Multiple genetic factors are associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The association of gene encoding vitamin D binding protein (VDBP, GC) with COPD has been controversial. We sought to investigate the types of GC variants in the Korean population and determine the association of GC variants with COPD and lung function in the Korean population. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study cohort consisted of 203 COPD patients and 157 control subjects. GC variants were genotyped by the restriction fragment-length polymorphism method. Repeated measures of lung function data were analyzed using a linear mixed model including sex, age, height, and pack-years of smoking to investigate the association of GC genetic factors and lung function. RESULTS: GC1F variant was most frequently observed in COPD (46.1%) and controls (42.0%). GC1S variant (29.0% vs. 21.4%; p=0.020) and genotype 1S-1S (8.3% vs. 3.4%; p=0.047) were more commonly detected in control than COPD. According to linear mixed model analysis including controls and COPD, subjects with genotype 1S-1S had 0.427 L higher forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) than those with other genotypes (p=0.029). However, interaction between the genotype and smoking pack-year was found to be particularly significant among subjects with genotype 1S-1S; FEV1 decreased by 0.014 L per smoking pack-year (p=0.001). CONCLUSION: This study suggested that GC polymorphism might be associated with lung function and risk of COPD in Korean population. GC1S variant and genotype 1S-1S were more frequently observed in control than in COPD. Moreover, GC1S variant was more common in non-decliners than in rapid decliners among COPD.

Role of vitamin D-binding protein in isocyanate-induced occupational asthma

The development of a serological marker for early diagnosis of isocyanate-induced occupational asthma (isocyanate-OA) may improve clinical outcome. Our previous proteomic study found that expression of vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP) was upregulated in the patients with isocyanate-OA. In the present study, we evaluated the clinical relevance of VDBP as a serological marker in screening for isocyanate-OA among exposed workers and its role in the pathogenesis of isocyanate-OA. Three study groups including 61 patients with isocyanate-OA (group I), 180 asymptomatic exposed controls (AECs, group II), 58 unexposed healthy controls (NCs, group III) were enrolled in this study. The baseline serum VDBP level was significantly higher in group I compared with groups II and III. The sensitivity and specificity for predicting the phenotype of isocyanate-OA with VDBP were 69% and 81%, respectively. The group I subjects with high VDBP (> or = 311 microg/ml) had significantly lower PC20 methacholine levels than did subjects with low VDBP. The in vitro studies showed that TDI suppressed the uptake of VDBP into RLE-6TN cells, which was mediated by the downregulation of megalin, an endocytic receptor of the 25-hydroxycholecalciferol-VDBP complex. Furthermore, toluene diisocyanate (TDI) increased VEGF production and secretion from this epithelial cells by suppression of 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol [1,25(OH)2D3] production. The findings of this study suggest that the serum VDBP level may be used as a serological marker for the detection of isocyanate-OA among workers exposed to isocyanate. The TDI-induced VEGF production/secretion was reversed by 1,25(OH)2D3 treatment, which may provide a potential therapeutic strategy for patients with isocyanate-OA.

Vitamin D binding protein gene polymorphisms and risk of type 1 diabetes mellitus among Egyptians

Type 1 diabetes [T1DM] is a multifactorial autoimmune disease in which both genetic predisposition and environmental factors participate in its development. Many cellular and epidemiological studies suggest a role for vitamin D in pathogenesis and prevention of T1DM. Polymorphisms of the genes involved in the metabolism of vitamin D may predispose to T1DM. Vitamin D-binding protein [DBP] is the main systemic transporter of vitamin D and is essential for its cellular endocytosis. There are two known polymorphisms in exon 11 of the DBP gene resulting in amino acid variants: GAT->GAG substitution replaces aspartic acid by glutamic acid in codon 416; and ACG->AAG substitution in codon 420 leads to an exchange of threonine for lysine. These DBP variants lead to differences in the affinity for vitamin D. Few published studies, about the correlation between these alleles and T1DM, yielded conflicting results. Therefore, we investigated the association of these polymorphisms with T1DM in Egyptian subjects. Unrelated 59 children with T1DM and 65 healthy controls were included in this study. The sequence of DBP exon 11, which contains both examined variants, was amplified by polymerase chain reaction [PCR]. Alleles and genotypes were determined using Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism analysis [RFLP]. At codon 416 the frequency of Glu/Asp alleles was 64.4/35.6% in T1DM patients and 55.4/44.6% in controls [P >0.05]. At codon 420 the frequency of Thr/Lys alleles were 88.1/11.9% and 87.7/12.3% [P >0.05] respectively. Distributions of genotypes at both loci, and the common haplotypes constructed by them, were also very similar in both groups [P >0.05]. It could be concluded that the studied DNA polymorphisms in the DBP gene are not associated with T1DM in Egyptian patients

Proteomic Analysis of the Serum from Chicken Infected by Avian Influenza Virus

Avian influenza (AI) is an infectious, low pathogenic virus that is endemic all over the world and poses a potential threat to the poultry industry. Vaccination is a widely used effective method to prevent avian influenza virus. Here we employed a comparative proteomics approach [two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF)] to characterize proteome in the sera from the specific pathogen free (SPF) chickens, the vaccinated chickens, and the naturally infected chickens. We identified total 58 proteins that were differentially expressed in the sera of three groups. Among them ovotransferrin and vitamin D-binding protein were more expressed in the sera of naturally infected chickens compare with other groups. Our results suggested that the level of these two proteins in the serum may help to discriminate the naturally infected chicken from the vaccinated chicken.

Effects of non-bioartificial liver support system on Gc-globulin in patients with liver failure / 中华肝脏病杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the effects of artificial liver support system(plasma exchange combined with continuous veno - venous hemodiafiltration, PE + CVVHDF) on Gc globulin in patients with liver failure.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>81 patients with liver failure were divided into 4 groups according to the treatment protocols and indicators such as liver function and clinical symptoms. Totally 29 effective cases and 14 ineffective cases in the ALSS group versus 15 effective cases and 23 ineffective cases in the medical group were included. Finally the changes of Gc globulin were observed in four subgroups before and after treatment. The correlation between Gc globulin and IL-10, IL-4, IL-18, TNFa, endotoxin, NO, sVCAM-1and sICAM-1were analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The effectiveness rate was 67.44% in ALSS group and 34.21% in the medical treatment (P less than 0.01). Gc globulin, one of liver cell protection proteins was notably increased following the artificial liver treatment as compared with the increase in the medical treatment (P less than 0.01). The time-response curve of Gc globulin level had a significant upward trend in the effective group as compared to no significant rise in the ineffective group. Moreover, the Gc globulin was negatively correlated with IL-4, IL-18, TNFa, SVCAM-1, SICAM-1 and NO. In contrast, no correlation existed between Gc globulin and IL-10. The treatment with artificial liver can improve the outcome of the patients with liver failure. The level of Gc globulin was correlated with the curative effect and thus may be used as a potential indicator for curative effect forcast in the patients with liver failure.</p>

Identification of asthenozoospermia-associated proteins in human seminal plasma by shotgun proteomic strategy / 中华男科学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To identify asthenozoospermia-associated proteins in seminal plasma by the shotgun proteomic strategy.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Six seminal plasma samples were collected by Percoll respectively from healthy fertile and asthenozoospermia volunteers, balanced, mixed, and then the mixture was separated by SDS-PAGE. The proteins in the gel were enzymolyzed, extracted and identified by the shotgun proteomic strategy. The identified proteins with the unique peptide count > or =2 or the unique peptide count=1 but the total count > or =4 were compared between the two groups.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>A total of 172 differential proteins were identified, of which, 89 were exclusively from the asthenozoospermia and 83 exclusively from the healthy fertile men. According to the molecular function, these differential proteins were mainly the types of signal transduction and catalytic activity.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Functionally, 10 of the proteins are particularly important, which include annexin VI isoform 2, isoform 1 of interleukin-6 receptor subunit beta precursor, Mr 400,000 protein, cytosolic dynein heavy chain, alpha-actinin-4, receptor-type tyrosine-protein phosphatase eta precursor, vitamin D-binding protein precursor, protein S100-A11, protein S100-A9 and ANXA4.</p>

Genetic polymorphisms in vitamin D receptor, vitamin D-binding protein, Toll-like receptor 2, nitric oxide synthase 2, and interferon-γ genes and its association with susceptibility to tuberculosis: [review]

Mycobacterium tuberculosis kills more people than any other single pathogen, with an estimated one-third of the world's population being infected. Among those infected, only 10 percent will develop the disease. There are several demonstrations that susceptibility to tuberculosis is linked to host genetic factors in twins, family and associated-based case control studies. In the past years, there has been dramatic improvement in our understanding of the role of innate and adaptive immunity in the human host defense to tuberculosis. To date, attention has been paid to the role of genetic host and parasitic factors in tuberculosis pathogenesis mainly regarding innate and adaptive immune responses and their complex interactions. Many studies have focused on the candidate genes for tuberculosis susceptibility ranging from those expressed in several cells from the innate or adaptive immune system such as Toll-like receptors, cytokines (TNF-α, TGF-β, IFN-γ, IL-1b, IL-1RA, IL-12, IL-10), nitric oxide synthase and vitamin D, both nuclear receptors and their carrier, the vitamin D-binding protein (VDBP). The identification of possible genes that can promote resistance or susceptibility to tuberculosis could be the first step to understanding disease pathogenesis and can help to identify new tools for treatment and vaccine development. Thus, in this mini-review, we summarize the current state of investigation on some of the genetic determinants, such as the candidate polymorphisms of vitamin D, VDBP, Toll-like receptor, nitric oxide synthase 2 and interferon-γ genes, to generate resistance or susceptibility to M. tuberculosis infection.

Teste de marcadores bioquímicos na identificação de prováveis indivíduos homozigotos dominantes para o gene tobiano em cavalos Pampa / Biochemical markers test to identify probable homozygous dominant for the tobiano gene in Pampa horses

Utilizaram-se 195 cavalos Pampa e um grupo-controle de 41 cavalos da raça Paint, provenientes de plantéis de várias regiões brasileiras, com o objetivo de avaliar a eficiência do teste mediante uso de marcadores bioquímicos: albumina (Al) e proteína de ligação da vitamina D (Gc), para identificação dos possíveis indivíduos homozigotos dominantes para o padrão de pelagem tobiano nos cavalos Pampa. Não foram encontrados genótipos AlBB e GcSS, revelando indício de quebra de ligação gênica entre tais locos e o loco tobiano e a ineficácia do teste bioquímico na detecção dos prováveis indivíduos homozigotos dominantes para o padrão de pelagem tobiano nos cavalos Pampa

One hundred and ninety five Pampa horses and a control group of 41 Paint Horses originated from herds located in different Brazilian regions were used to objective of evaluate the efficiency of the biochemical markers albumin (Al) and vitamin D binding protein (Gc) to identify the probable homozygous dominant for the tobiano coat color pattern in Pampa horses. It was not found any genotype AlBB and GcSS, indicating a possible break of the genetic linkage between these loci and the locus Tobiano, as well as the inefficacy of the biochemical test in the detection of the probable homozygous dominant for the tobiano color pattern in Pampa horses

Serum proteome in mice after low dose radiation / 中国实验血液学杂志

This study was purposed to investigate the mechanism of low dose radiation (LDR) by proteomic technology and to find the key proteins of the hormesis and adaptive response induced LDR, which provided the foundation of experimental and theoretical basis for the clinical application of LDR. Two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) was used to screen protein patterns of normal serum and serum of mice exposed to LDR in different time for qualitative and quantitative differences in protein expression. And the differentially-expressed proteins between the two groups were identified by matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight-mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS). The result showed that among the differentially-expressed proteins between the group exposed to LDR and the control group (shom-irradiated group), it was found that after LDR new 4 proteins appeared, 13 proteins were up-regulated, 6 proteins were down-regulated, 3 proteins disappeared in the group exposed to LDR. In different time the quantity of some proteins was different, the protein expression had some characteristics, the estrogen receptor 2 was down-regulated, the vitamin D-binding protein and apolipoprotien were up-regulated in the group exposed to LDR. It is concluded that LDR up-regulate or down-regulate some proteins, some proteins related with LDR were found. It may provide some new explanations for the effect mechanism of the LDR.

Diferentes patrones de circulación dentro de los subgrupos A y B del virus sincitial respiratorio humano en algunas provincias de Cuba / Different patterns of circulation in subgroups A and B of human respiratory syncytial virus in some provinces of Cuba

Se realizó la secuenciación nucleotídica de la región del tercio C-terminal de la proteína G de 37 muestras de exudados nasofaríngeos, de niños menores de 1 año provenientes de algunas provincias de Cuba durante 5 períodos epidémicos (1995-2000), para conocer los patrones de circulación de cepas del virus sincitial respiratorio humano; el cual se clasifica en 2 subgrupos antigénicos A y B, y cada uno contiene múltiples variantes. El subgrupo A circuló durante todos los años, el subgrupo B se detectó solamente durante el año 2000. Dentro del subgrupo A se observó la presencia de cepas con 2 tamaños diferentes de la proteína G (297 aa y 298 aa), mientras que para el subgrupo B fue observado un único tamaño (295 aa). El análisis filogenético permitió identificar 5 y 2 genotipos dentro de los subgrupos A y B, respectivamente. Los virus de Cuba se relacionaron filogenéticamente con cepas de otras partes del mundo. Dentro del subgrupo A se encontraron 2 cepas, las cuales fueron muy similares a la cepa prototipo Long. Casi todas las cepas del año 2000 de ambos subgrupos, se agruparon filogenéticamente con cepas que circularon en Sudáfrica durante ese mismo período