Oleuropein as An Effective Suppressor of Inflammation and MicroRNA-146a Expression in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis.

OBJECTIVE: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common progressive autoimmune disorder that causes chronic inflammation of the joints and damage to other organs. Previous studies have reported the important role of miRNA-146a in the pathogenesis of RA. In addition, the anti-inflammatory and modulatory effects of oleuropein (OLEU) on the expression pattern of microRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown in different diseases. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate both the sensitivity and specificity of miRNA-146a and determine the potential effects of OLEU on the expression levels of miRNA-146a and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in RA patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The participants in this experimental study were divided into 2 groups: RA (n=45) and healthy controls (n=30). The isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were treated with different concentrations of OLEU; and the level of TNF-α expression, anti-citrullinated protein, and miRNA-146a were determined using enzyme-linked immunoassay and real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. In addition, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis evaluated the sensitivity and specificity of miRNA-146a in RA patients. RESULTS: Results revealed a positive correlation between the levels of miRNA-146a expression with the serum levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and rheumatoid factor (RF) in RA patients. In addition, OLEU treatment decreased the levels of TNF-α and miRNA-146a expression in treated PBMCs samples compared with untreated cells. The ROC curve analysis showed an 85% sensitivity and 100% specificity of miRNA-146a in RA patients. CONCLUSION: Therefore, miRNA-146a can be used as a useful biomarker for RA diagnosis, particularly for early detection. In addition, OLEU could suppress inflammation in RA patients through the regulation of miRNA-146a.

The first report of a known 4A syndrome patient with suspected manifestations of COVID-19, what was the final outcome?

The present study was performed on a 24-year-old Iranian man referred to Hospital with suspected symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, weakness, and cough. According to medical history, he had Alacrima, esophageal Achalasia, and adrenal insufficiency from childhood. Based on medical records and clinical examinations, the physician suspected 3A syndrome in the patient and requested further examination for MRI, CXR, and COVID-19 RT-PCR test. The result of the COVID-19 RT-PCR test was negative the next day. The patient's CXR showed ground-glass opacity (GGO) and pulmonary fibrosis. Based on images and MRI reports, severe posterior cortical atrophy disproportionate to chronological age and bilateral atrophy of the lacrimal gland were reported. After reviewing and summarizing the records, history, examinations, and Paraclinical tests, the patient was identified as a case of 4A syndrome.