Exploring the secrets of virus entry: the first respiratory syncytial virus carrying beta lactamase.

Background: Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) presents a significant health threat, especially to young children. In-depth understanding of RSV entry mechanisms is essential for effective antiviral development. This study introduces an innovative RSV variant, featuring the fusion of the beta-lactamase (BlaM) enzyme with the RSV-P phosphoprotein, providing a versatile tool for dissecting viral entry dynamics. Methods: Using the AlphaFold2 algorithm, we modeled the tertiary structure of the P-BlaM chimera, revealing structural similarities with both RSV-P and BlaM. Functional assessments, utilizing flow cytometry, quantified beta-lactamase activity and GFP expression in infected bronchial epithelial cells. Western blot analysis confirmed the integrity of P-BlaM within virions. Results: The modeled P-BlaM chimera exhibited structural parallels with RSV-P and BlaM. Functional assays demonstrated robust beta-lactamase activity in recombinant virions, confirming successful P-BlaM incorporation as a structural protein. Quercetin, known for its antiviral properties, impeded viral entry by affecting virion fusion. Additionally, Ulixertinib, an ERK-1/2 inhibitor, significantly curtailed viral entry, implicating ERK-1/2 pathway signaling. Conclusions: Our engineered RSV-P-BlaM chimera emerges as a valuable tool, illuminating RSV entry mechanisms. Structural and functional analyses unveil potential therapeutic targets. Quercetin and Ulixertinib, identified as distinct stage inhibitors, show promise for targeted antiviral strategies. Time-of-addition assays pinpoint quercetin's specific interference stage, advancing our comprehension of RSV entry and guiding future antiviral developments.

Uncovering the Genetic and Molecular Features of Huntington's Disease in Northern Colombia.

Huntington's disease (HD) is a genetic disorder caused by a CAG trinucleotide expansion in the huntingtin (HTT) gene. Juan de Acosta, Atlántico, a city located on the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is home to the world's second-largest HD pedigree. Here, we include 291 descendants of this pedigree with at least one family member with HD. Blood samples were collected, and genomic DNA was extracted. We quantified the HTT CAG expansion using an amplicon sequencing protocol. The genetic heterogeneity was measured as the ratio of the mosaicism allele's read peak and the slippage ratio of the allele's read peak from our sequence data. The statistical and bioinformatic analyses were performed with a significance threshold of p < 0.05. We found that the average HTT CAG repeat length in all participants was 21.91 (SD = 8.92). Of the 291 participants, 33 (11.3%, 18 females) had a positive molecular diagnosis for HD. Most affected individuals were adults, and the most common primary and secondary alleles were 17/7 (CAG/CCG) and 17/10 (CAG/CCG), respectively. The mosaicism increased with age in the participants with HD, while the slippage analyses revealed differences by the HD allele type only for the secondary allele. The slippage tended to increase with the HTT CAG repeat length in the participants with HD, but the increase was not statistically significant. This study analyzed the genetic and molecular features of 291 participants, including 33 with HD. We found that the mosaicism increased with age in the participants with HD, particularly for the secondary allele. The most common haplotype was 17/7_17/10. The slippage for the secondary allele varied by the HD allele type, but there was no significant difference in the slippage by sex. Our findings offer valuable insights into HD and could have implications for future research and clinical management.

From Cell to Symptoms: The Role of SARS-CoV-2 Cytopathic Effects in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19 and Long COVID.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection triggers various events from molecular to tissue level, which in turn is given by the intrinsic characteristics of each patient. Given the molecular diversity characteristic of each cellular phenotype, the possible cytopathic, tissue and clinical effects are difficult to predict, which determines the heterogeneity of COVID-19 symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the cytopathic effects of SARS-CoV-2 on various cell types, focusing on the development of COVID-19, which in turn may lead, in some patients, to a persistence of symptoms after recovery from the disease, a condition known as long COVID. We describe the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-host interactions, including alterations in protein expression, intracellular signaling pathways, and immune responses. In particular, the article highlights the potential impact of these cytopathies on cellular function and clinical outcomes, such as immune dysregulation, neuropsychiatric disorders, and organ damage. The article concludes by discussing future directions for research and implications for the management and treatment of COVID-19 and long COVID.

C-terminal Motifs of HIV-1 gp41 as Possible Determinants of Viral Pathogenesis / Motivos C-terminales de gp41 del VIH-1 como posibles determinantes de la patogénesis viral / Motivos C-terminais do HIV-1 gp41 como Possíveis Determinantes da Patogénese Viral

Abstract: human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is the etiological agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), a pandemic with high economic and social costs. The envelope glycoprotein (ENV) of the virus mediates the infectious process by binding to and entering the host cell, one of the main target components of studies since its discovery. Its endodomain or C-terminal tail (CTT) participates in late replicative cycle processes, such as intracellular trafficking, activation, and cell death, which occurs because it interacts with multiple cellular factors through motifs or signal sequences present throughout its structure. Although these interactions have not been fully understood at specific levels, studies over more than three decades leave no doubtthatthis domain plays a fundamental role in the biology of the virus and probably the development of the disease. This review describes the studies carried out to date that demonstrate the importance of the CTT, focusing on the motifs responsible for its interactions and its possible roles in the pathogenicity of the infection.

Resumen: el virus de la inmunodeficiencia humana tipo 1 (VIH-1) es el agente etiológico del síndrome de inmunodeficiencia adguirida (SIDA), una pandemia con altos costos económicos y sociales. La glicoproteína de la envoltura (ENV) del virus media el proceso infeccioso al unirse a la célula huésped y entrar en ella, uno de los principales componentes objetivo de los estudios desde su descubrimiento. Su endodominio o cola C-terminal (CTT) participa en procesos tardíos del ciclo replicativo, como tráfico intracelular, activación y muerte celular, lo que ocurre porque interactúa con múltiples factores celulares a través de motivos o secuencias señal presentes en toda su estructura. Aunque estas interacciones no se han entendido completamente a niveles específicos, los estudios durante más de tres décadas no dejan dudas de que este campo juega un papel fundamental en la biología del virus y probablemente en el desarrollo de la enfermedad. Esta revisión describe los estudios realizados hasta la fecha que demuestran la importancia de la CTT, centrándose en los motivos responsables de sus interacciones y sus posibles roles en la patogenicidad de la infección.

Resumo: o vírus da imunodeficiência humana tipo 1 (HIV-1) é o agente etiológico da síndrome da imunodeficiência adquirida (AUXILIA), urna pandemia com elevados custos económicos e sociais. A glicoproteína do envelope (ENV) do vírus media o processo infeccioso ligando-se e entrando na célula hospedeira, um dos principais componentes alvo dos estudos desde sua descoberta. Seu endo domínio ou cauda C-terminal (CTT) participa de processos do ciclo replicativo tardio, como tráfego intracelular, ativação e morte celular, que ocorre porque interage com múltiplos fatores celulares por meio de motivos ou sequências-sinal presentes em toda a sua estrutura. Embora essas interações não tenham sido totalmente compreendidas em níveis específicos, estudos ao longo de mais de três décadas não deixam dúvidas de que esse domínio desempenha um papel fundamental na biologia do vírus e provavelmente no desenvolvimento da doença. Esta revisão descreve os estudos realizados até o momento que demonstram a importância da CTT, com foco nos motivos responsáveis por suas interações e seus possíveis papéis na patogenicidade da infecção.

MicroRNAs overexpressed in Crohn's disease and their interactions with mechanisms of epigenetic regulation explain novel aspects of Crohn's disease pathogenesis.

BACKGROUND: In this review, we were interested to identify the wide universe of enzymes associated with epigenetic modifications, whose gene expression is regulated by miRNAs with a high relative abundance in Crohn's disease (CD) affected tissues, with the aim to determine their impact in the pathogenesis and evolution of the disease. METHODS: We used HMDD and Bibliometrix R-package in order to identify the miRNAs overexpressed in CD. The identified enzymes associated with epigenetic mechanisms and post-translational modifications, regulated by miRNAs upregulated in CD, were analyzed using String v11 database. RESULTS: We found 190 miRNAs with great abundance in patients with CD, of which 26 miRNAs regulate the gene expression of enzymes known to catalyze epigenetic modifications involved in essentials pathophysiological processes, such as chromatin architecture reorganization, immune response regulation including CD4+ T cells polarization, integrity of gut mucosa, gut microbiota composition and tumorigenesis. CONCLUSION: The integrated analysis of miRNAs with a high relative abundance in patients with CD showed a combined and superimposed gene expression regulation of enzymes associated with relevant epigenetic mechanisms and that could explain, in part, the pathogenesis of CD.

El impacto de la educación en ciencias biológicas en pacientes con enfermedad renal en un contexto de epidemia por COVID-19 / The impact of education in biological science in patients with kidney disease in the context of a covid-19 epidemic

Resumen La educación en ciencias biológicas juega un papel importante a la hora de entender los sistemas vivos y ecosistemas que nos rodea en contexto de una epidemia de tipo zoonótico como SARS-CoV-2 y cumple un papel importante para el autocuidado en pacientes con enfermedad renal que son una población en alto riesgo según datos epidemiológicos. El presente trabajo pretende describir la asociación entre la educación en ciencia biológica y la epidemia por COVID-19. La educación en ciencias biológicas es un componente importante supeditado al autocuidado para que muchos pacientes con enfermedad renal puedan entender la importancia de tener una mejor adherencia al régimen terapéutico y el régimen alimenticio, y en el caso puntual de la epidemia por COVID-19 puede permitir que ellos tomen las medidas preventivas que eviten su exposición al patógeno.

Abstract Biologic education plays an important role in understanding the living systems and ecosystems that it does not surround in the context of a zoonotic-like epidemic such as SARS-CoV-2 may have an important role for self-care in patients with kidney disease that they are a population at high risk according to epidemiological data. That is why the present work aims to describe the association between education in biological science in patients with kidney disease in the context of a covid-19 epidemic. Biological science education is an important component subject to self-care so that many patients with kidney disease allowing them to understand, the importance of having a better adhere to the therapeutic regimen, dietary regimen and in the specific case of the epidemic by COVID-19 may allow them to take preventive measures to avoid their exposure to the pathogen.

Distribution of polymorphism rs693 of ApoB gene in a sample of Colombian Caribbeans / Distribución del polimorfismo rs693 en el gen de la apolipoproteína B en una muestra caribeños colombianos

Abstract Introduction: Several studies have reported that the single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 of Apo lipoprotein B gene is associated with high levels of plasma lipids and high body mass index, which are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. The distribution of this single nucleotide polymorphism and its association with the phenotype depend on the genetic background of each population. Objective: To evaluate the distribution of single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 and its association with lipid profile and body mass index in a sample of Colombian Caribbeans. Methods: 108 non-related adult subjects of both gender were included in this study. Body mass index and lipid profile that included total cholesterol, triglycerides, Low Density Lipoprotein and High Density Lipoprotein were determined. The single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 was determined by Polymerase Chain Reaction/Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism from genomic DNA followed by digestion with the restriction enzyme XbaI. The chi-square test was used to analyze the genotype distribution of rs693 and the genotype-phenotype association was evaluated through different inheritance model. Results: The genotype frequencies for single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 were CC (45.0%), TT (16.5%) and CT (38.5%). The allele frequencies were C (64.0%) and T (36.0%). The single nucleotide polymorphism was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the studied sample. No association of the single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 with lipid profile nor the body mass index was found (p >0.05). Conclusion: There is no significant association between single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 and body mass index nor lipid profile, in a sample of Colombian Caribbeans.

Resumen Introducción: Varios estudios han informado que el polimorfismo de un solo nucleótido rs693 del gen de la apolipoproteína B se asocia con altos niveles de lípidos plasmáticos e índice de masa corporal, los cuales son factores de riesgo para enfermedades cardiovasculares. La distribución de este polimorfismo y su asociación con el fenotipo dependen del antecedente genético de cada población. La población caribeña colombiana es producto de la mezcla de tres grupos étnicos principales: africano, amerindio y caucásico. Objetivo: Evaluar la distribución del polimorfismo rs693 y su asociación con el perfil lipídico y el índice de masa corporal en una muestra de sujetos caribeños colombianos. Métodos: Fueron incluidos en este estudio 108 sujetos adultos de ambos sexos y no relacionados. Se determinaron el índice de masa corporal y el perfil lipídico; de éste se incluyó colesterol total, triglicéridos, lipoproteínas de baja densidad y lipoproteína de alta densidad. El polimorfismo rs693 se determinó mediante Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa del ADN genómico seguida por digestión con la enzima de restricción XbaI. Se utilizó la prueba de ji cuadrado para analizar la distribución del genotipo de rs693 y se evaluó la asociación genotipo-fenotipo a través de diferentes modelos de herencia. Resultados: Las frecuencias genotípicas para rs693 fueron CC (45.0%), TT (16.5%) y TC (38.5%). Las frecuencias alélicas fueron C (64.0%) y T (36.0%). El polimorfismo rs693 estaba en equilibrio de Hardy-Weinberg en la muestra estudiada y no presentó asociación con el perfil lipídico ni con el índice de masa corporal (p >0.05). Conclusión: No existe asociación significativa del polimorfismo rs693 con el índice de masa corporal ni con el perfil lipídico en una muestra de caribeños colombianos.

Integrated analysis of microRNA regulation and its interaction with mechanisms of epigenetic regulation in the etiology of systemic lupus erythematosus.

The aim of this study was to identity in silico the relationships among microRNAs (miRNAs) and genes encoding transcription factors, ubiquitylation, DNA methylation, and histone modifications in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). To identify miRNA dysregulation in SLE, we used miR2Disease and PhenomiR for information about miRNAs exhibiting differential regulation in disease and other biological processes, and HMDD for information about experimentally supported human miRNA-disease association data from genetics, epigenetics, circulating miRNAs, and miRNA-target interactions. This information was incorporated into the miRNA analysis. High-throughput sequencing revealed circulating miRNAs associated with kidney damage in patients with SLE. As the main finding of our in silico analysis of miRNAs differentially expressed in SLE and their interactions with disease-susceptibility genes, post-translational modifications, and transcription factors; we highlight 226 miRNAs associated with genes and processes. Moreover, we highlight that alterations of miRNAs such as hsa-miR-30a-5p, hsa-miR-16-5p, hsa-miR-142-5p, and hsa-miR-324-3p are most commonly associated with post-translational modifications. In addition, altered miRNAs that are most frequently associated with susceptibility-related genes are hsa-miR-16-5p, hsa-miR-374a-5p, hsa-miR-34a-5p, hsa-miR-31-5p, and hsa-miR-1-3p.

Distribution of polymorphism rs693 of ApoB gene in a sample of Colombian Caribbeans.

INTRODUCTION: Several studies have reported that the single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 of Apo lipoprotein B gene is associated with high levels of plasma lipids and high body mass index, which are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. The distribution of this single nucleotide polymorphism and its association with the phenotype depend on the genetic background of each population. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the distribution of single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 and its association with lipid profile and body mass index in a sample of Colombian Caribbeans. METHODS: 108 non-related adult subjects of both gender were included in this study. Body mass index and lipid profile that included total cholesterol, triglycerides, Low Density Lipoprotein and High Density Lipoprotein were determined. The single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 was determined by Polymerase Chain Reaction/Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism from genomic DNA followed by digestion with the restriction enzyme XbaI. The chi-square test was used to analyze the genotype distribution of rs693 and the genotype-phenotype association was evaluated through different inheritance model. RESULTS: The genotype frequencies for single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 were CC (45.0%), TT (16.5%) and CT (38.5%). The allele frequencies were C (64.0%) and T (36.0%). The single nucleotide polymorphism was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium in the studied sample. No association of the single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 with lipid profile nor the body mass index was found (p >0.05). CONCLUSION: There is no significant association between single nucleotide polymorphism rs693 and body mass index nor lipid profile, in a sample of Colombian Caribbeans.

INTRODUCCIÓN: Varios estudios han informado que el polimorfismo de un solo nucleótido rs693 del gen de la apolipoproteína B se asocia con altos niveles de lípidos plasmáticos e índice de masa corporal, los cuales son factores de riesgo para enfermedades cardiovasculares. La distribución de este polimorfismo y su asociación con el fenotipo dependen del antecedente genético de cada población. La población caribeña colombiana es producto de la mezcla de tres grupos étnicos principales: africano, amerindio y caucásico. OBJETIVO: Evaluar la distribución del polimorfismo rs693 y su asociación con el perfil lipídico y el índice de masa corporal en una muestra de sujetos caribeños colombianos. MÉTODOS: Fueron incluidos en este estudio 108 sujetos adultos de ambos sexos y no relacionados. Se determinaron el índice de masa corporal y el perfil lipídico; de éste se incluyó colesterol total, triglicéridos, lipoproteínas de baja densidad y lipoproteína de alta densidad. El polimorfismo rs693 se determinó mediante Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa del ADN genómico seguida por digestión con la enzima de restricción XbaI. Se utilizó la prueba de ji cuadrado para analizar la distribución del genotipo de rs693 y se evaluó la asociación genotipo-fenotipo a través de diferentes modelos de herencia. RESULTADOS: Las frecuencias genotípicas para rs693 fueron CC (45.0%), TT (16.5%) y TC (38.5%). Las frecuencias alélicas fueron C (64.0%) y T (36.0%). El polimorfismo rs693 estaba en equilibrio de Hardy-Weinberg en la muestra estudiada y no presentó asociación con el perfil lipídico ni con el índice de masa corporal (p >0.05). CONCLUSIÓN: No existe asociación significativa del polimorfismo rs693 con el índice de masa corporal ni con el perfil lipídico en una muestra de caribeños colombianos.

Bases conceptuales del diagnóstico de intolerancia a lactosa, hipolactasia y mala digestión de lactosa / Conceptual basis of the diagnosis of lactose intolerance, hypolactasia and lactose maldigestion

Se revisa la fisiopatología de hipolactasia, mala digestión de lactosa e intolerancia a lactosa para aclarar confusiones conceptuales y puntualizar diagnósticos. La lactasa es la enzima que digiere la lactosa de la leche, liberando galactosa y glucosa. En adultos con fenotipo Hipolactasia Primaria Tipo Adulto (No persistencia de Lactasa), la actividad enzimática es el 10 % de la máxima, propia de la infancia; en los de fenotipo Persistencia de Lactasa se mantiene elevada. En europeos, los fenotipos están estrechamente asociados al polimorfismo C/T-13910; por consiguiente, su genotipificación constituye prueba diagnóstica; no así en caribeños colombianos por presentar moderada asociación. El diagnóstico directo de hipo-lactasia/persistencia es el enzimático; un índice lactasa/sacarasa< 0,3 indica hipolactasia. Mala digestión de lactosa, la incapacidad de digerir cierta cantidad, se evalúa con la prueba de hidrógeno en el aliento o con la de tolerancia a lactosa, las cuales permiten inferir si el sujeto es probable persistente (digestor) o probable hipolactásico (mal digestor). Intolerancia a lactosa es el síndrome clínico digestivo que, tras ingerirla, puede sobrevenir por causa de hipolactasia o de mala absorción de glucosa-galactosa; se diagnostica si al excluir la leche de la dieta durante dos semanas el cuadro desaparece y luego, al restituirla, reaparece. Mala absorción de lactosa es una irrealidad fisiológica porque la lactosa no se absorbe. No existe sinonimia entre hipolactasia, mala digestión de lactosa e intolerancia a lactosa. Son estados fisiopatológicos diferentes, no siempre asociados entre sí. La comprensión de la identidad conceptual de cada uno es fundamental para diagnosticarlos acertadamente.

The pathophysiology of hypolactasia, lactose maldigestion and lactose intolerance are reviewed to clarify conceptual confusions and convey precise diagnoses. Lactase is the enzyme that helps to digest milk lactose, releasing galactose and glucose. While in adults with primary adult-type hypolactasia phenotype, the enzyme activity reaches 10% of the maximum observed in childhood, in individuals with lactase persistence phenotype, the activity remains high. In Europeans, phenotypes are closely associated with C/T-13910polymorphism; therefore, genotyping may be used as a diagnostic test. However, this is not possible in Colombian Caribbean population due to the existence of moderate association genotype-phenotype. The direct diagnosis ofhypolactasia/persistence consists of an enzymatic method; a lactase/sacarase index<0.3 indicates hypolactasia. Lactose maldigestion, the inability to digest a certain amount of lactose, is evaluated through application of either breath hydrogen or a lactose intolerance test, which allow to infer whether the individual might be a lactase persistent (digester) or hypolactasic (maldigester). Lactose intolerance is the clinical digestive syndrome that may appear following ingestion of lactose, due to hypolactasia or to glucose-galactose malabsorption. A subject is considered to be intolerant to lactose when symptoms disappear as milk is excluded from the diet for two weeks, and reappear upon its restoration as part of his diet. "Lactose malabsorption" is a physiological misnomer because lactose is not absorbed as such. Hypolactasia, lactose maldigestion and lactose intolerance are not synonyms. They involve different pathophysiological states, which are not always associated with each other. Understanding each of these three concepts is critical for a correct diagnosis.

Análisis de los polimorfismos europeos en el gen lactasa entre grupos étnicos del Caribe Colombiano / Analysis of the european polymorphisms in lactase gene between ethnic groups in the Colombian Caribbean / Análise dos polimorfismos europeus no gene lactasa entre os grupos etnicos do Caribe Colombiano

La prevalencia de hipolactasia tipo adulto está influenciada por la etnicidad y la geografía. Los genotipos CC y GG, de los SNPs C/T-13910 y G/A-22018, respectivamente determinan hipolactasia en ciertos grupos étnicos y países del mundo. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar estos SNPs en muestras de los tres grupos étnicos que habitan el Caribe Colombiano. Trescientos sesenta y un sujetos, agrupados como afrodescendientes, indígenas y mestizos, fueron genotipificados usando PCR/RFLP. El análisis genético se hizo mediante Arlequin 3.11 y las frecuencias genotípicas fueron comparadas con Statgraphics Centurion XVI. Solamente el SNP C/T-13910 mostró equilibrio de Hardy- Weinberg y no hubo desequilibrio de ligamiento entre los SNPs estudiados. La frecuencia del genotipo CC-13910 fue 90% en afrodescendientes, 95% en indígenas y 80% en mestizos. En indígenas la frecuencia de GG-22018 fue 23% pero dicho genotipo no se halló en afrodescendientes y mestizos. El genotipo AA-22018 no se halló en indígenas. Ningún grupo presentó el genotipo TT-13910. Las frecuencias genotípicas fueron estadísticamente diferentes entre los grupos estudiados y las de los genotipos CC-13910 y GG-22018 no concordaron con las frecuencias fenotípicas reportadas en otros estudios. Los resultados sugieren que la posibilidad diagnóstica de hipolactasia mediante genotipificación de estos polimorfismos es escasa en el Caribe Colombiano.

The prevalence of adult-type hypolactasia is influenced by ethnicity and geography. The CC and GG genotypes of the SNPs C/T-13910 and G/A-22018, respectively indicate hypolactasia in certain ethnic groups worldwide. The aim of this study was to analyse these SNPs in samples of the three ethnic groups that inhabit the Colombian Caribbean. Three hundred and sixty-one subjects were genotyped using PCR/RFLP. These subjects were grouped as being of African descent, Indigenous and Mestizo. The genetic analysis was performed through Arlequin 3.11 and genotype frequencies were compared with Statgraphics Centurion XVI. Only SNP C/T-13910 showed Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and there was no linkage disequilibrium between the SNPs. The frequency of CC-13910 was 90% in Afro-descendant, 95% in indigenous people and 80% in mestizos.The frequency of GG-22018 was 23% in indigenous people, but this genotype was not present in afro-descendants and Mestizos. The indigenous people did not have AA-22018, and none of the groups had TT-13910. The genotype frequencies were statistically different among the groups studied and the frequencies of CC-13910 and GG-22018 were not in concordance with the phenotype frequencies reported in other papers. The results suggest that diagnostic possibility of hypolactasia by genotyping of those polymorphisms in the Colombian Caribbean population is scarce.

A prevalência da hipolactasia primária tipo adulto é influenciada pela etnicidade e a geografia. Os genótipos CC e GG, dos SNPs C/T-13910 e G/A-22018, respectivamente, são determinantes da hipolactasia em alguns grupos étnicos e países do mundo. O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar estes SNPs em amostras dos três grupos étnicos do Caribe Colombiano. Trezentas e sessenta e uma pessoas reunidas como afrodescendentes, indígenas e mestiços foram genotipificadas utilizando PCR/RFLP. A análise genética foi realizada usando o software Arlequin 3.11 e as frequências genotípicas foram comparadas com o Statgraphics Centurion XVI. Somente o SNP C/T-13910 mostrou equilíbrio de Hardy-Weinberg e não houve desequilíbrio de ligamento entre os SNPs estudados. A frequência do genótipo CC-13910 foi de 90% para afrodescendentes, 95% para indígenas e 80% em mestiços. Nos indígenas a frequência de GG-22018 foi de 23% mas tal genótipo não esteve presente na população de afrodescendentes e mestiços. O genótipo AA-22018 não foi encontrado em indígenas. Nenhum grupo apresentou o genótipo TT-13910. As frequências genotípicas foram estatisticamente diferentes entre os grupos avaliados e as dos genótipos CC-13910 e GG-22018, não concordaram com as frequências fenotípicas relatados em outros estudos. Os resultados sugerem que a possibilidade diagnóstica de hipolactasia através de genotipificação destes polimorfismos é escassa em populações do Caribe Colombiano.

Análisis de los polimorfismos europeos en el gen Lactasa entre grupos étnicos del Caribe Colombiano / Analysis of the European polymorphisms in lactase gene between ethnic groups in the Colombian Caribbean / Análise dos polimorfismos europeus no gene lactasa entre os grupos etnicos do Caribe Colombiano

La prevalencia de hipolactasia tipo adulto está influenciada por la etnicidad y la geografía. Los genotipos CC y GG, de los SNPs C/T-13910 y G/A-22018, respectivamente determinan hipolactasia en ciertos grupos étnicos y países del mundo. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar estos SNPs en muestras de los tres grupos étnicos que habitan el Caribe Colombiano. Trescientos sesenta y un sujetos, agrupados como afrodescendientes, indígenas y mestizos, fueron genotipificados usando PCR/RFLP. El análisis genético se hizo mediante Arlequin 3.11 y las frecuencias genotípicas fueron comparadas con Statgraphics Centurion XVI. Solamente el SNP C/T-13910 mostró equilibrio de Hardy- Weinberg y no hubo desequilibrio de ligamiento entre los SNPs estudiados. La frecuencia del genotipo CC-13910 fue 90% en afrodescendientes, 95% en indígenas y 80% en mestizos. En indígenas la frecuencia de GG-22018 fue 23% pero dicho genotipo no se halló en afrodescendientes y mestizos. El genotipo AA-22018 no se halló en indígenas. Ningún grupo presentó el genotipo TT-13910. Las frecuencias genotípicas fueron estadísticamente diferentes entre los grupos estudiados y las de los genotipos CC-13910 y GG-22018 no concordaron con las frecuencias fenotípicas reportadas en otros estudios. Los resultados sugieren que la posibilidad diagnóstica de hipolactasia mediante genotipificación de estos polimorfismos es escasa en el Caribe Colombiano.(AU)

The prevalence of adult-type hypolactasia is influenced by ethnicity and geography. The CC and GG genotypes of the SNPs C/T-13910 and G/A-22018, respectively indicate hypolactasia in certain ethnic groups worldwide. The aim of this study was to analyse these SNPs in samples of the three ethnic groups that inhabit the Colombian Caribbean. Three hundred and sixty-one subjects were genotyped using PCR/RFLP. These subjects were grouped as being of African descent, Indigenous and Mestizo. The genetic analysis was performed through Arlequin 3.11 and genotype frequencies were compared with Statgraphics Centurion XVI. Only SNP C/T-13910 showed Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and there was no linkage disequilibrium between the SNPs. The frequency of CC-13910 was 90% in Afro-descendant, 95% in indigenous people and 80% in mestizos.The frequency of GG-22018 was 23% in indigenous people, but this genotype was not present in afro-descendants and Mestizos. The indigenous people did not have AA-22018, and none of the groups had TT-13910. The genotype frequencies were statistically different among the groups studied and the frequencies of CC-13910 and GG-22018 were not in concordance with the phenotype frequencies reported in other papers. The results suggest that diagnostic possibility of hypolactasia by genotyping of those polymorphisms in the Colombian Caribbean population is scarce.(AU)

A prevalÛncia da hipolactasia primária tipo adulto é influenciada pela etnicidade e a geografia. Os genótipos CC e GG, dos SNPs C/T-13910 e G/A-22018, respectivamente, sÒo determinantes da hipolactasia em alguns grupos étnicos e países do mundo. O objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar estes SNPs em amostras dos trÛs grupos étnicos do Caribe Colombiano. Trezentas e sessenta e uma pessoas reunidas como afrodescendentes, indígenas e mestiþos foram genotipificadas utilizando PCR/RFLP. A análise genética foi realizada usando o software Arlequin 3.11 e as frequÛncias genotípicas foram comparadas com o Statgraphics Centurion XVI. Somente o SNP C/T-13910 mostrou equilíbrio de Hardy-Weinberg e nÒo houve desequilíbrio de ligamento entre os SNPs estudados. A frequÛncia do genótipo CC-13910 foi de 90% para afrodescendentes, 95% para indígenas e 80% em mestiþos. Nos indígenas a frequÛncia de GG-22018 foi de 23% mas tal genótipo nÒo esteve presente na populaþÒo de afrodescendentes e mestiþos. O genótipo AA-22018 nÒo foi encontrado em indígenas. Nenhum grupo apresentou o genótipo TT-13910. As frequÛncias genotípicas foram estatisticamente diferentes entre os grupos avaliados e as dos genótipos CC-13910 e GG-22018, nÒo concordaram com as frequÛncias fenotípicas relatados em outros estudos. Os resultados sugerem que a possibilidade diagnóstica de hipolactasia através de genotipificaþÒo destes polimorfismos é escassa em populaþ§es do Caribe Colombiano.(AU)

Aislamiento microbiológico de Salmonella spp. y herramientas moleculares para su detección / Microbiological Isolation of Salmonella spp. And Molecular tools for detection

Salmonella spp, es uno de los principales agentes causales de intoxicaciones alimentarías a nivel mundial, coloniza a la mayoría de los animales y el ser humano. No es detectable en muestras que tienen un bajo número de células y los métodos tradicionales para su aislamiento tienen baja especificidad, baja sensibilidad y consumen mucho tiempo. Esta revisión presenta un análisis sobre los métodos para la detección de Salmonella spp. y se profundiza en los estudios moleculares encaminados al diagnóstico de este microorganismo de importancia en salud pública. En los últimos años se han desarrollado diferentes protocolos utilizando métodos moleculares para la detección de Salmonella spp. a partir de muestras clínicas y alimentos. Los costos para la detección molecular de Salmonella spp. son elevados en comparación con los métodos tradicionales, pero la alta sensibilidad y especificidad que ofrece la PCR, los beneficios al sector salud al lograr un diagnóstico rápido y preciso, la relación costo beneficio que otorga al sector productivo permitiendo liberar productos alimenticios al mercado con mayor rapidez, justifican la implementación de estas técnicas. La revisión de las ventajas y desventajas de los métodos microbiológicos tradicionales y moleculares para detectar Salmonella spp. en diferentes matrices, permite establecer la mejor estrategia a seguir en la detección y diagnóstico de microorganismos de difícil aislamiento. Dada la complejidad de las diferentes metodologías que existen para la detección de Salmonella spp, dichas técnicas serán presentadas en forma independiente.

The use of factorial design, image analysis, and an efficiency calculation for multiplex PCR optimization.

BACKGROUND: The quality of multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays depends on several factors. Therefore, it is important to establish the optimal conditions to achieve efficient amplification. The objective of this study was to implement a 5 × 4 factorial design combined with image analysis using agarose gels and an efficiency calculation to optimize a multiplex PCR assays for the detection of Salmonella enterica serovar typhimurium. METHODS: We used 12 ng of Salmonella DNA obtained from pure cultures and applied different annealing temperatures (65°C, 64.5°C, 63.3°C, 61.4°C, or 59°C) and different MgCl2 concentrations (1 mM, 1.5 mM, 2 mM, or 2.5 mM) to amplify regions of the fliC, rfbJ, and fljB genes. The 5 × 4 factorial design was performed using Statgraphics Plus software version 5.1, and the images were analyzed using Image Lab(TM) software. RESULTS: Superior amplification was obtained using an annealing temperature of 65°C and 2 mM MgCl2 . This finding was confirmed by calculating the efficiency of multiplex PCR assays (6.1%) at these conditions. CONCLUSION: We propose the application of factorial design and image analysis to determine the most suitable conditions for multiplex PCR optimization.

Diagnosis of adult-type hypolactasia/lactase persistence: genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP C/T-13910) is not consistent with breath test in Colombian Caribbean population.

CONTEXT: Genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP C/T(-13910)) located upstream of the lactase gene is used to determine adult-type hypolactasia/lactase persistence in North-European Caucasian subjects. The applicability of this polymorphism has been studied by comparing it with the standard diagnostic methods in different populations. OBJECTIVE: To compare the lactose hydrogen breath test with the genetic test in a sample of the Colombian Caribbean population. METHODS: Lactose hydrogen breath test and genotyping of SNP C/T(-13910) were applied to 128 healthy individuals (mean age 35 ± 1). A positive lactose hydrogen breath test was indicative of hypolactasia. Genotyping was done using polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism. The kappa index was used to establish agreement between the two methods. RESULTS: Seventy-six subjects (59%) were lactose-maldigesters (hypolactasia) and 52 subjects (41%) were lactose-digesters (lactase persistence). The frequencies of the CC, CT and TT genotypes were 80%, 20% and 0%, respectively. Genotyping had 97% sensitivity and 46% specificity. The kappa index = 0.473 indicates moderate agreement between the genotyping of SNP C/T(-13910) and the lactose hydrogen breath test. CONCLUSION: The moderate agreement indicates that the genotyping of the SNP C/T(-13910) is not applicable to determine adult-type hypolactasia/lactase persistence in the population participating in this study.

Diagnosis of adult-type hypolactasia/lactase persistence: genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP C/T-13910) is not consistent with breath test in Colombian Caribbean population / Diagnóstico de hipolactasia tipo adulto/persistência da lactase: a genotipagem do polimorfismo de um único nucleotídeo (SNP) C/T-13910 não é consistente com o teste de hidrogênio na população do Caribe Colombiano

CONTEXT: Genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP C/T-13910) located upstream of the lactase gene is used to determine adult-type hypolactasia/lactase persistence in North-European Caucasian subjects. The applicability of this polymorphism has been studied by comparing it with the standard diagnostic methods in different populations. OBJECTIVE: To compare the lactose hydrogen breath test with the genetic test in a sample of the Colombian Caribbean population. METHODS: Lactose hydrogen breath test and genotyping of SNP C/T-13910 were applied to 128 healthy individuals (mean age 35 ± 1). A positive lactose hydrogen breath test was indicative of hypolactasia. Genotyping was done using polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism. The kappa index was used to establish agreement between the two methods. RESULTS: Seventy-six subjects (59%) were lactose-maldigesters (hypolactasia) and 52 subjects (41%) were lactose-digesters (lactase persistence). The frequencies of the CC, CT and TT genotypes were 80%, 20% and 0%, respectively. Genotyping had 97% sensitivity and 46% specificity. The kappa index = 0.473 indicates moderate agreement between the genotyping of SNP C/T-13910 and the lactose hydrogen breath test. CONCLUSION: The moderate agreement indicates that the genotyping of the SNP C/T-13910 is not applicable to determine adult-type hypolactasia/lactase persistence in the population participating in this study.

CONTEXTO: A genotipagem do SNP C/T-13910 localizado corrente acima do gene da lactase é usada para determinar hipolactasia e persistência da lactase tipo adulto em indivíduos caucasianos do Norte da Europa. A aplicabilidade deste polimorfismo tem sido estudada em comparação com métodos padronizados de diagnóstico em diferentes populações. OBJETIVO: Comparar o teste de hidrogênio expirado após a ingestão de lactose com o teste genético em uma mostra da população do Caribe Colombiano. MÉTODOS: O teste de hidrogênio expirado após a ingestão de lactose e a genotipagem do SNP C/T-13910 foram aplicados em 128 sujeitos sadios (idade media 35 ± 1). O teste de hidrogênio positivo foi indicativo de hipolactasia. A genotipagem foi feita pelo método "polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism". O índice Kappa foi utilizado para estabelecer a concordância entre os dois métodos. RESULTADOS: Setenta e seis indivíduos (59%) foram mau digestores da lactose (hipolactasia) e 52 outros (41%) foram digestores da lactose (persistência da lactase). As frequências dos genotipos CC, CT e TT foram 80%, 20% e 0%, respectivamente. A genotipagem mostrou 97% da sensibilidade e 46% da especificidade. O índice kappa: 0,473 indicou moderada concordância entre os dois métodos. CONCLUSÃO: A moderada concordância indica que a genotipagem do SNP C/T-13910 nao é aplicável para determinar hipolactasia tipo adulto/persistência da lactase na população estudada.