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| | 1. |
2009 Jul 22 |
Enhanced ghrelin secretion in the cephalic phase of food ingestion in women with bulimia nervosa.
Monteleone P, Serritella C, Scognamiglio P, Maj M
Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2009 Jul 22; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
In humans, the cephalic phase response to food ingestion consists mostly of vagal efferent activation, which promotes the secretion of entero-pancreatic hormones, including ghrelin. Since symptomatic patients with bulimia nervosa (BN) are characterized by increased vagal tone, we hypothesized an enhanced ghrelin secretion in the cephalic phase of vagal stimulation. Therefore, we investigated ghrelin response to modified sham feeding (MSF) in both BN and healthy women. Six drug-free BN women and 7 age-matched healthy females underwent MSF with initially seeing and smelling a meal, and then chewing the food without swallowing it. Blood samples were drawn immediately before and after MSF for hormone assay. Circulating ghrelin increased after MSF in both groups with BN individuals exhibiting a greater ghrelin increase, which positively correlated with the patients' weekly frequency of binge-purging. These results show for the first time an increased ghrelin secretion in the cephalic phase of vagal stimulation in symptomatic BN patients, likely resulting in a potentiation of the peripheral hunger signal, which might contribute to their aberrant binge-purging behavior.
[Pubmed: 19631473]
| | 2. |
2009 Sep 3 |
Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) hemoglobin genes: multiplicity and polymorphism
Borza, Stone, Gamperl, Bowman
BMC Genet 2009 Sep 3;10:51. published online before print
Abstract
Hemoglobin (Hb) polymorphism, assessed by protein gel electrophoresis, has been used almost exclusively to characterize the genetic structure of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) populations and to establish correlations with phenotypic traits such as Hb oxygen binding capacity, temperature tolerance and growth characteristics. The genetic system used to explain the results of gel electrophoresis entails the presence of one polymorphic locus with two major alleles (HbI-1; HbI-2). However, vertebrates have more than one gene encoding Hbs and recent studies have reported that more than one Hb gene is present in Atlantic cod. These observations prompted us to re-evaluate the number of Hb genes expressed in Atlantic cod, and to perform an in depth search for polymorphisms that might produce relevant phenotypes for breeding programs.
[Pubmed: 19728884]
| | 3. |
2009 Sep 1 |
Genetic diversity and the emergence of ethnic groups in Central Asia
Heyer, Balaresque, Jobling, Quintana-Murci, Chaix, Segurel, Aldashev, Hegay
BMC Genet 2009 Sep 1;10:49. published online before print
Abstract
In this study, we used genetic data that we collected in Central Asia, in addition to data from the literature, to understand better the origins of Central Asian groups at a fine-grained scale, and to assess how ethnicity influences the shaping of genetic differences in the human species. We assess the levels of genetic differentiation between ethnic groups on one hand and between populations of the same ethnic group on the other hand with mitochondrial and Y-chromosomal data from several populations per ethnic group from the two major linguistic groups in Central Asia.
[Pubmed: 19723301]
| | 4. |
2009 Oct 6 |
Characterization of Multiple Ion Channels in Cultured Human Cardiac Fibroblasts
Li, Sun, Chen, Zhou, Tse, Lau
PLoS One 2009 Oct 6;4(10). published online before print
Abstract
Although fibroblast-to-myocyte electrical coupling is experimentally suggested, electrophysiology of cardiac fibroblasts is not as well established as contractile cardiac myocytes. The present study was therefore designed to characterize ion channels in cultured human cardiac fibroblasts.
[Pubmed: 19806193]
| | 5. |
2009 Oct 16 |
Prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in Tehran province: a population-based study
Javadi, Katibeh, Rafati, Dehghan, Zayeri, Yaseri, Sehat, Ahmadieh
BMC Ophthalmol 2009 Oct 16;9:12. published online before print
Abstract
To determine the prevalence and characteristics of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among Iranian patients with diabetes.
[Pubmed: 19835608]
| | 6. |
2009 Nov 4 |
Italian cross-cultural adaptation and validation of the Oxford shoulder score.
Murena L, Vulcano E, D'Angelo F, Monti M, Cherubino P
J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2009 Nov 4; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS) is an English-language questionnaire specifically designed to evaluate patients affected by shoulder pain. Although this scoring system has been translated into other languages, an Italian version of it is still not available. The aim of the present study was to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the Italian version of the OSS. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We recruited 140 patients with shoulder pain caused by degenerative or inflammatory state or disorder of the shoulder. Patients completed the following questionnaires: Italian OSS, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) Shoulder Rating Scale, Constant-Murley shoulder assessment, and the Medical Outcome Study Short-Form 36 Health Survey (MOS SF-36). Internal consistency was tested using Cronbach coefficient alpha. Reproducibility was assessed by asking 110 patients to complete another OSS 48 hours after the first. Correlation between the total results of both tests was determined by the Pearson correlation coefficient. Validity was assessed by calculating the Pearson correlation coefficient between the OSS and the UCLA, Constant-Murley, and SF-36 assessments. RESULTS: Cronbach alpha was 0.95. The Pearson correlation coefficient was r=0.97. With respect to validity, there was a significant correlation between the Italian OSS and the individual scores of UCLA, Constant-Murley, and SF-36. DISCUSSION: Psychometric properties of the Italian OSS compared well with those reported for the English OSS. As demonstrated by the high values of Cronbach alpha and Pearson correlation coefficients, in accordance with the English version of the OSS, the Italian version proved to be a reliable, valid, and reproducible measure of shoulder pain perception in Italian-speaking patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 1; Test of previously developed criteria, diagnostic test study.
[Pubmed: 19896392]
| | 7. |
2009 Dec |
Upgrading Root Physiology for Stress Tolerance by Ectomycorrhizas: Insights from Metabolite and Transcriptional Profiling into Reprogramming for Stress Anticipation1[C][W][OA]
Luo, Janz, Jiang, Göbel, Wildhagen, Tan, Rennenberg, Feussner, Polle
Plant Physiol 2009 Dec;151(4):1902-1917.
Abstract
Ectomycorrhizas (EMs) alleviate stress tolerance of host plants, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are unknown. To elucidate the basis of EM-induced physiological changes and their involvement in stress adaptation, we investigated metabolic and transcriptional profiles in EM and non-EM roots of gray poplar (Populus × canescens) in the presence and absence of osmotic stress imposed by excess salinity. Colonization with the ectomycorrhizal fungus Paxillus involutus increased root cell volumes, a response associated with carbohydrate accumulation. The stress-related hormones abscisic acid and salicylic acid were increased, whereas jasmonic acid and auxin were decreased in EM compared with non-EM roots. Auxin-responsive reporter plants showed that auxin decreased in the vascular system. The phytohormone changes in EMs are in contrast to those in arbuscular mycorrhizas, suggesting that EMs and arbuscular mycorrhizas recruit different signaling pathways to influence plant stress responses. Transcriptome analyses on a whole genome poplar microarray revealed activation of genes related to abiotic and biotic stress responses as well as of genes involved in vesicle trafficking and suppression of auxin-related pathways. Comparative transcriptome analysis indicated EM-related genes whose transcript abundances were independent of salt stress and a set of salt stress-related genes that were common to EM non-salt-stressed and non-EM salt-stressed plants. Salt-exposed EM roots showed stronger accumulation of myoinositol, abscisic acid, and salicylic acid and higher K+-to-Na+ ratio than stressed non-EM roots. In conclusion, EMs activated stress-related genes and signaling pathways, apparently leading to priming of pathways conferring abiotic stress tolerance.
[Pubmed: 19812185]
| | 8. |
2009 Nov 01 |
Atrial fibrillation in Cardiac Channelopathies
Thejus, Francis
Indian Pacing Electrophysiol J 2009 Nov 01;9(6):342-350. published online before print
[Pubmed: 19898657]
| | 9. |
2009 Dec 1 |
Genetic commonality of macrolide-resistant group A beta hemolytic streptococcus pharyngeal strains
Myers, Jackson, Selvarangan, Goering, Harrison
Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob 2009 Dec 1;8:33. published online before print
Abstract
Group A beta hemolytic streptococcus (GABHS) pharyngitis is a common childhood illness. Penicillin remains the gold standard therapy, but macrolides are indicated for the penicillin allergic patient, and are often used for convenience.
[Pubmed: 19951439]
| | 10. |
2009 Dec 10 |
Lack of association between toll-like receptor 4 gene polymorphisms and sarcoidosis-related uveitis in Japan
Asukata, Ota, Meguro, Katsuyama, Ishihara, Namba, Kitaichi, Morimoto, Kaburaki, Ando, Takenaka, Inoko, Ohno, Mizuki
Mol Vis 2009 Dec 10;15:2673-2682. published online before print
Abstract
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are pattern-recognition receptors that play an important role in innate and adaptive immune responses to microbial pathogens. Among TLRs, TLR4 recognizes lipopolysaccharides of Gram-negative bacteria. Genetic polymorphisms within the TLR4 gene have been reported to be associated with various inflammatory diseases; therefore, TLR4 appears to be a susceptibility gene for sarcoidosis. Although sarcoidosis has various clinical manifestations, its association with uveitis is more common in Japan than in other countries. The aim of this study was to investigate whether TLR4 polymorphisms were associated with sarcoidosis-related uveitis in a Japanese population.
[Pubmed: 20011079]
| | 11. |
2009 Dec 9 |
Cardiac Index Validation Using the Pressure Recording Analytic Method in Unstable Patients.
Zangrillo A, Maj G, Monaco F, Scandroglio AM, Nuzzi M, Plumari V, Virzo I, Bignami E, Casiraghi G, Landoni G
J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth. 2009 Dec 9; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The authors investigated the accuracy and precision of the pressure recording analytic method (PRAM) in cardiac index measurement compared with thermodilution in unstable patients, a setting in which minimally invasive monitoring devices often fail. DESIGN: Criterion standard. SETTING: Intensive care unit. PATIENTS: Thirty-two consecutive patients with low cardiac output syndrome treated with an intra-aortic balloon pump and/or high doses of inotropic drugs but without atrial fibrillation were studied after cardiac surgery. INTERVENTIONS: None. Pulmonary and radial artery catheters were already in situ for clinical reasons. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Four patients (12.5%) were excluded from the study because of artifacts caused by under- or overdamping of the arterial pressure monitoring system. The authors performed 3 injections of the thermal indicator in 5 minutes through the pulmonary artery catheter. Mean cardiac index values of 12 consecutive beats were considered for the PRAM. A significant correlation was found between the cardiac index assessed by thermodilution and PRAM (r = 0.72, p < 0.001). The mean bias between the 2 techniques was 0.072 +/- 0.41 L/min/m(2) with lower and upper 95% limits of confidence of -0.089 and 0.233 L/min/m(2), respectively. The percentage error was 30%. Sufficient agreement between the two techniques was evidenced by the Bland-Altman plot with only two points above the limits of agreement. CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that PRAM, a minimally invasive method for cardiac index assessment, is clinically useful even in unstable patients such as those receiving intra-aortic balloon pump and/or ongoing high doses of a inotropic drugs because of a low cardiac output syndrome but without atrial fibrillation.
[Pubmed: 20005131]
| | 12. |
2008 Aug 03 |
Response to flavonoids as a factor influencing competitiveness and symbiotic activity of Rhizobium leguminosarum.
Maj D, Wielbo J, Marek-Kozaczuk M, Skorupska A
Microbiol. Res. 2010;165(1):50-60. Epub 2008 Aug 03.
Abstract
Flavonoids play a crucial role as signal molecules in promoting the formation of nodules by symbiotic bacteria commonly known as rhizobia. The early interaction between flavonoids and NodD regulatory protein activates nod gene transcription and the synthesis of Nod factor that initiates nodule primordium. In this study, we assessed response to flavonoids as factors influencing competitiveness of rhizobia and their symbiotic activity. Rhizobium leguminosarum nodule isolates belonging to three biovars, trifolii, viciae and phaseoli characterized earlier as competitive or uncompetitive relative to native rhizobia, were used. Investigating nodA promoter induction using plasmid lacZ fusion, we found that competitive strains more readily responded to a wide range of synthetic flavonoids and seed exudates in comparison to uncompetitive strains, albeit some exceptions were noticed. Of all the synthetic flavonoids and seed exudates studied, naringenin, hespertin and clover and vetch exudates were the most effective inducers of nodA promoter in competitive strains. Only one of the nine examined uncompetitive strains was highly induced by clover seed exudate. Subsequently, the effect of preinduction of R. leguminosarum bv. trifolii with clover exudate was assessed. Out of 18 pre-activated strains, nine strains (including competitive ones) increased clover wet mass of shoots and nodule number when used as inoculants. Our results demonstrate a plausible approach of isolating and characterizing flavonoid-responsive field isolates that could be further developed into relevant legume inoculants.
[Pubmed: 18678476]
| | 13. |
2009 Dec 15 |
Comparative analysis of different approaches for dealing with candidate regions in the context of a genome-wide association study
Lantieri, Jhun, Park, Park, Devoto
BMC Proc 2009 Dec 15;3(Suppl 7):S93. published online before print
Abstract
Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) test hundreds of thousands of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for association to a trait, treating each marker equally and ignoring prior evidence of association to specific regions. Typically, promising regions are selected for further investigation based on p-values obtained from simple tests of association. However, loci that exert only a weak, low-penetrant role on the trait, producing modest evidence of association, are not detectable in the context of a GWAS. Implementing prior knowledge of association in GWAS could increase power, help distinguish between false and true positives, and identify better sets of SNPs for follow-up studies.
[Pubmed: 20018090]
| | 14. |
2010 Jan |
Efficient gene silencing by delivery of locked nucleic acid antisense oligonucleotides, unassisted by transfection reagents
Stein, Hansen, Lai, Wu, Voskresenskiy, Høg, Worm, Hedtjärn, Souleimanian, Miller, Soifer, Castanotto, Benimetskaya, Ørum, Koch
Nucleic Acids Res 2010 Jan;38(1):e3.
Abstract
For the past 15–20 years, the intracellular delivery and silencing activity of oligodeoxynucleotides have been essentially completely dependent on the use of a delivery technology (e.g. lipofection). We have developed a method (called ‘gymnosis’) that does not require the use of any transfection reagent or any additives to serum whatsoever, but rather takes advantage of the normal growth properties of cells in tissue culture in order to promote productive oligonucleotide uptake. This robust method permits the sequence-specific silencing of multiple targets in a large number of cell types in tissue culture, both at the protein and mRNA level, at concentrations in the low micromolar range. Optimum results were obtained with locked nucleic acid (LNA) phosphorothioate gap-mers. By appropriate manipulation of oligonucleotide dosing, this silencing can be continuously maintained with little or no toxicity for >240 days. High levels of oligonucleotide in the cell nucleus are not a requirement for gene silencing, contrary to long accepted dogma. In addition, gymnotic delivery can efficiently deliver oligonucleotides to suspension cells that are known to be very difficult to transfect. Finally, the pattern of gene silencing of in vitro gymnotically delivered oligonucleotides correlates particularly well with in vivo silencing. The establishment of this link is of particular significance to those in the academic research and drug discovery and development communities.
[Pubmed: 19854938]
| | 15. |
2009 Dec 14 |
Application of hybridization control probe to increase accuracy on ligation detection or minisequencing diagnostic microarrays
Ritari, Paulin, Hultman, Auvinen
BMC Res Notes 2009 Dec 14;2:249. published online before print
Abstract
Nucleic acid detection based on ligation reaction or single nucleotide extension of ssDNA probes followed by tag microarray hybridization provides an accurate and sensitive detection tool for various diagnostic purposes. Since microarray quality is crucial for reliable detection, these methods can benefit from correcting for microarray artefacts using specifically adapted techniques.
[Pubmed: 20003444]
| | 16. |
2009 Aug 20 |
Atrial-selective sodium channel block as a novel strategy for the management of atrial fibrillation.
Antzelevitch C, Burashnikov A
J Electrocardiol.;42(6):543-8. Epub 2009 Aug 20.
Abstract
Pharmacological management of atrial fibrillation (AF) remains an important unmet medical need. Because available drugs for rhythm control of AF are often associated with a significant risk for development of ventricular arrhythmias or extracardiac toxicity, recent drug development has focused on agents that are atrial selective. Inhibition of the ultrarapid delayed rectifier potassium current (I(Kur)), a current exclusive to atria, is an example of an atrial-selective approach. Recent studies, however, have shown that loss-of-function mutations in KCNA5, the gene that encodes K(V)1.5, the alpha subunit of the I(Kur) channel, is associated with the development of AF and that inhibition of I(Kur) can promote the induction of AF in experimental models. Another potential atrial-selective approach has recently been identified. Experimental studies have demonstrated important atrioventricular differences in the biophysical properties of the sodium channel and have identified sodium channel blockers that can exploit electrophysiological distinctions between atria and ventricles. Atrial-selective/predominant sodium channel blockers such as ranolazine effectively suppress AF in experimental models involving canine-isolated right atrial preparations at concentrations that produce little to no effect on electrophysiological parameters in ventricular myocardium. Chronic administration of amiodarone was also found to exert atrial-selective depression of I(Na)-dependent parameters and thus to prevent the induction of AF. Ranolazine and amiodarone have in common the ability to rapidly dissociate from the sodium channel and to prolong the atrial action potential duration via inhibition of I(Kr). Our observations suggest that atrial-selective sodium channel block may be a fruitful strategy for the management of AF.
[Pubmed: 19698954]
| | 17. |
2009 Oct |
WPA forthcoming scientific meetings
OKASHA
World Psychiatry 2009 Oct;8(3):191-192.
[Pubmed: 19812761]
| | 18. |
2009 Nov 09 |
Evidence for sympathetic origins of hypertension in juvenile offspring of obese rats.
Samuelsson AM, Morris A, Igosheva N, Kirk SL, Pombo JM, Coen CW, Poston L, Taylor PD
Hypertension. 2010 Jan;55(1):76-82. Epub 2009 Nov 09.
Abstract
Maternal obesity in rodents is associated with increased adiposity, impaired glucose tolerance, and hypertension in adult offspring. In this study we investigated the influence of maternal obesity in the rat on blood pressure and blood pressure regulatory pathways in juvenile and adult offspring. Obesity was induced before pregnancy in female Sprague-Dawley rats by feeding a highly palatable energy-dense diet. In juvenile animals (30 days of age), before the onset of obesity and hyperleptinemia, basal nighttime mean arterial pressure was significantly raised in the offspring of obese dams (OffOb) relative to offspring of controls (OffCon; mean arterial pressure, males: OffOb, 121.8+/-0.6 mm Hg versus OffCon, 115.0+/-0.5 mm Hg, n=6, P<0.01; females: OffOb, 125.4+/-0.4 mm Hg versus OffCon, 114.4+/-0.5 mm Hg, n=6, P<0.001), as was the mean arterial pressure response to restraint stress (P<0.01). The pressor response to a leptin challenge was enhanced in OffOb rats (Deltamean arterial pressure: OffOb, 9.7+/-0.8 mm Hg versus OffCon, 5.3+/-1.3 mm Hg; n=8; P<0.05). Renal tissue norepinephrine content (P<0.001) and renin expression (P<0.05) were markedly raised. Analysis of heart rate variability revealed an increased low:high frequency ratio in OffOb versus OffCon rats (P<0.05). At 90 days, hypertension in OffOb rats persisted and was abolished by alpha1- and beta-adrenergic blockade, and cardiovascular responses to phenylephrine or sodium nitroprusside indicated altered baroreceptor function. The exaggerated pressor response to leptin in OffOb rats was maintained. Hypertension in the offspring of obese rats may arise from persistent sympathoexcitatory hyperresponsiveness acquired in early stages of development.
[Pubmed: 19901159]
| | 19. |
2010 Jan |
A Predominantly Neolithic Origin for European Paternal Lineages
Balaresque, Bowden, Adams, Leung, King, Rosser, Goodwin, Moisan, Richard, Millward, Demaine, Barbujani, Previderè, Wilson, Tyler-Smith, Jobling
PLoS Biol 2010 Jan;8(1).
Abstract
Most present-day European men inherited their Y chromosomes from the farmers who spread from the Near East 10,000 years ago, rather than from the hunter-gatherers of the Paleolithic.
[Pubmed: 20087410]
| | 20. |
2010 Jan 20 |
Genetic relationships among seven sections of genus Arachis studied by using SSR markers.
Koppolu R, Upadhyaya HD, Dwivedi SL, Hoisington DA, Varshney RK
BMC Plant Biol. 2010 Jan 20;10(1):15. Epub 2010 Jan 20.
Abstract
ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND: The genus Arachis, originated in South America, is divided into nine taxonomical sections comprising of 80 species. Most of the Arachis species are diploids (2n = 2x = 20) and the tetraploid species (2n = 2x = 40) are found in sections Arachis, Extranervosae and Rhizomatosae. Diploid species have great potential to be used as resistance sources for agronomic traits like pests and diseases, drought related traits and different life cycle spans. Understanding of genetic relationships among wild species and between wild and cultivated species will be useful for enhanced utilization of wild species in improving cultivated germplasm. The present study was undertaken to evaluate genetic relationships among species (96 accessions) belonging to seven sections of Arachis by using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers developed from Arachis hypogaea genomic library and gene sequences from related genera of Arachis. RESULTS: The average transferability rate of 101 SSR markers tested to section Arachis and six other sections was 81% and 59% respectively. Five markers (IPAHM 164, IPAHM 165, IPAHM 407a, IPAHM 409, and IPAHM 659) showed 100% transferability. Cluster analysis of allelic data from a subset of 32 SSR markers on 85 wild and 11 cultivated accessions grouped accessions according to their genome composition, sections and species to which they belong. A total of 109 species specific alleles were detected in different wild species, Arachis pusilla exhibited largest number of species specific alleles (15). Based on genetic distance analysis, the A-genome accession ICG 8200 (A. duranensis) and the B-genome accession ICG 8206 (A. ipaensis) were found most closely related to A. hypogaea. CONCLUSION: A set of cross species and cross section transferable SSR markers has been identified that will be useful for genetic studies of wild species of Arachis, including comparative genome mapping, germplasm analysis, population genetic structure and phylogenetic inferences among species. The present study provides strong support based on both genomic and genic markers, probably for the first time, on relationships of A. monticola and A. hypogaea as well as on the most probable donor of A and B-genomes of cultivated groundnut.
[Pubmed: 20089171]
| | 21. |
2010 Jan 19 |
Regulation of Ceramide Synthase-Mediated Crypt Epithelium Apoptosis by DNA Damage Repair Enzymes.
Rotolo JA, Mesicek J, Maj J, Truman JP, Haimovitz-Friedman A, Kolesnick R, Fuks Z
Cancer Res. 2010 Jan 19; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Acute endothelial cell apoptosis and microvascular compromise couple gastrointestinal tract irradiation to reproductive death of intestinal crypt stem cell clonogens (SCCs) following high-dose radiation. Genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of endothelial apoptosis prevents intestinal damage, but as the radiation dose is escalated, SCCs become directly susceptible to an alternate cell death mechanism, mediated via ceramide synthase (CS)-stimulated de novo synthesis of the proapoptotic sphingolipid ceramide, and p53-independent apoptosis of crypt SCCs. We previously reported that ataxia-telangiectasia mutated deficiency resets the primary radiation lethal pathway, allowing CS-mediated apoptosis at the low-dose range of radiation. The mechanism for this event, termed target reordering, remains unknown. Here, we show that inactivation of DNA damage repair pathways signals CS-mediated apoptosis in crypt SCCs, presumably via persistent unrepaired DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs). Genetic loss of function of sensors and transducers of DNA DSB repair confers the CS-mediated lethal pathway in intestines of sv129/B6Mre11(ATLD1/ATLD1) and C57BL/6(Prkdc/SCID) (severe combined immunodeficient) mice exposed to low-dose radiation. In contrast, CS-mediated SCC lethality was mitigated in irradiated gain-of-function Rad50(s/s) mice, and epistasis studies order Rad50 upstream of Mre11. These studies suggest unrepaired DNA DSBs as causative in target reordering in intestinal SCCs. As such, we provide an in vivo model of DNA damage repair that is standardized, can be exploited to understand allele-specific regulation in intact tissue, and is pharmacologically tractable. Cancer Res; 70(3); 957-67.
[Pubmed: 20086180]
| | 22. |
2010 Jan 18 |
Investigation of CNR1 and FAAH endocannabinoid gene polymorphisms in bipolar disorder and major depression.
Monteleone P, Bifulco M, Maina G, Tortorella A, Gazzerro P, Proto MC, Di Filippo C, Monteleone F, Canestrelli B, Buonerba G, Bogetto F, Maj M
Pharmacol Res. 2010 Jan 18; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Experimental data suggest that the endogenous cannabinoid system is involved in mood regulation, but no study has been performed so far to investigate the role of endocannabinoid genes in the susceptibility to major depression (MD) and/or bipolar disorder (BD). We assessed the CB1 receptor gene (CNR1) single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs1049353 (1359 G/A) and the fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) gene rs324420 SNP (cDNA 385C to A) for their associations with MD and/or BD in 83 Caucasian patients with recurrent MD, 134 Caucasian individuals with BD, and 117 Caucasian healthy subjects. The distribution of the CNR1 1359 G/A genotypes and alleles significantly differed among the groups (chi(2)=12.595; df=4, P=0.01 for genotypes; chi(2)=13.773; df=2, P=0.001 for alleles) with MD patients showing a higher frequency of both AG, GG genotypes and A allele as compared to healthy controls. The distribution of the FAAH cDNA 385C to A genotypes, according to the CC dominant model (AA+AC vs. CC), significantly differed among the groups (chi(2)=6.626; df=2, P=0.04), with both BD patients and MD patients showing a non-significant slightly higher frequency of the AC genotype. These findings, although preliminary, suggest that the CNR1 1359 G/A and the FAAH cDNA 385C to A gene variants may contribute to the susceptibility to mood disorders.
[Pubmed: 20080186]
| | 23. |
2010 Jan 12 |
H4R3 methylation facilitates {beta}-globin transcription by regulating histone acetyltransferase binding and H3 acetylation.
Li X, Hu X, Patel B, Zhou Z, Liang S, Ybarra R, Qiu Y, Felsenfeld G, Bungert J, Huang S
Blood. 2010 Jan 12; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Histone modifications play an important role in the process of transcription. However, in contrast to lysine methylation, the role of arginine methylation in chromatin structure and transcription has been under-explored. The globin genes are regulated by a highly organized chromatin structure that juxtaposes the locus control region (LCR) with downstream globin genes. We report here that the targeted recruitment of asymmetric dimethyl H4R3 catalyzed by PRMT1 facilitates histone H3 acetylation on Lys 9/Lys14. Dimethyl H4R3 provides a binding surface for PCAF and directly enhances histone H3 acetylation in vitro. We show that these active modifications are essential for efficient interactions between the LCR and the beta(maj)-promoter as well as transcription of the beta-globin gene. Furthermore, knock down (KD) of PRMT1 by RNA interference in erythroid progenitor cells prevents histone acetylation, enhancer and promoter interaction, and recruitment of transcription complexes to the active beta-globin promoter. Reintroducing rat PRMT1 into the PRMT1 KD MEL cells rescues PRMT1 binding, beta-globin transcription, and erythroid differentiation. Taken together, our data suggest that PRMT1-mediated dimethyl H4R3 facilitates histone acetylation and enhancer/promoter communications, which lead to the efficient recruitment of transcription preinitiation complexes to active promoters.
[Pubmed: 20068219]
| | 24. |
2010 Jan 8 |
Expression of Tau in insulin secreting cells and its interaction with the calcium binding protein secretagogin.
Maj M, Gartner W, Ilhan A, Neziri D, Attems J, Wagner L
J Endocrinol. 2010 Jan 8; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Tauopathies have been associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) which frequently manifests together with diabetes mellitus type 2. Calcium binding proteins such as the recently identified Secretagogin (SCGN) might exert protective effects. As pancreatic beta-cells and neurons share common electrophysiological properties we investigated appearance of tau protein at the islets of Langerhans and beta-cell-derived cell lines which highly express the neuroendocrine-specfic protein SCGN. Six predominant tau isoforms could be identified by immunoblotting which formed tau deposits detectable by immunofluorescence and sarkosyl insoluble pellets. Using GST-SCGN pull down assays, a calcium-dependent SCGN-tau interaction was found. In this line, sucrose density gradient fractionation and differential ultracentrifugation studies of tau and SCGN revealed co-appearance of both proteins. Co-localisation of tau and SCGN within insulinoma cells and islets of Langerhans mainly restricted to insulin positive beta-cells was demonstrated by confocal microscopy. Motivated by these findings we looked if SCGN over-expression could exert protective function on Rin-5F cells which showed differences in tau levels. Testing the vulnerability of Rin-5F clones by MTT assay, we revealed that high tau levels going along with highest tau aggregates could not be antagonized by high levels of SCGN protein. Our findings demonstrated for the first time the association of tau and the calcium binding protein SCGN and support earlier results implicating that beta cells might represent an extra cerebral site of tauopathy.
[Pubmed: 20061514]
| | 25. |
2010 Jan |
Coping styles in healthy individuals at risk of affective disorder.
Vinberg M, Froekjaer VG, Kessing LV
J. Nerv. Ment. Dis. 2010 Jan;198(1):39-44.
Abstract
Coping styles may influence the perceived life stress experienced by an individual and, therefore, also be critical in the development of affective disorders. This study examined whether familial risk of affective disorder is associated with the use of maladaptive coping styles, in healthy individuals. One hundred twelve high-risk and 78 low-risk individuals were identified through nation-wide registers and invited to participate in an extensive psychiatric evaluation including the Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations. The high-risk individuals used more Emotion-oriented (p = 0.001) and Avoidance coping (p = 0.04) than individuals not at risk. Adjusted for gender, age, years of education, and recent stressful life events the high-risk individuals used more emotion-oriented coping (p = 0.03). In conclusion, maladaptive coping style may represent a trait marker for mood disorder improving maladaptive coping styles may be a target for selective prevention focusing on subgroups at high risk of developing an affective disorder.
[Pubmed: 20061868]
| | 26. |
2010 Jan |
Malarigen malaria pf/pv antigen rapid test: a simple and effective tool for diagnosis of malaria in the far-flung hilly areas of bangladesh.
Selimuzzaman SM, Islam SJ, Nahar Z, Das R, Rahman MA, Rahman MA
Mymensingh Med J. 2010 Jan;19(1):94-9.
Abstract
Microscopic visualization of malarial parasites on thick and/or thin film is considered as "Gold Standard" for diagnosis of malaria. But it needs skilled microscopist as well as good laboratory set up, which are scarce in Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) in Bangladesh. A study was carried out to evaluate the efficacy of a newly introduced Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) device based on immunochromatographic test (ICT) format, for malarial parasite. This study was carried out at Balipara, a remote village 64 km away from Bandarban Hill District headquarters, during January 2007 to September 2007. A total 271 patients who reported to Sickbay of 37 Rifle Battalion, Balipara were tested by MALARIAGEN MALARIA Pf/Pv Antigen Rapid Test kit on the spot. Thick & thin blood films were prepared and stained by laboratory technician at the sick bay, properly labeled, preserved and sent to pathologist working at Armed Forces Medical College, Dhaka Cantonment, Dhaka for microscopy. Three (1.11%) cases were excluded as control band of RDT were negative or test band appeared after long incubation. Six (2.22%) were excluded for poor quality of staining blood film. Among 262 cases malarial parasites were detected in 74(28.24%). Of these 62(83.78%) were Plasmodium falciparum and 12(16.22%) were Plasmodium vivax. Parasite count ranged from 2500/muL to 527500/muL with mean 67400/muL (+/-93400). Among 262 cases, 97(37.02%) were positive for malarial antigen(s) in RDT. Of these 74(76.29%) were P. falciparum and 23(23.71%) were P. vivax. Overall sensitivity and specificity of RDT for detection of malarial antigen(s) irrespective of their species were 95.95% and 86.71% respectively with positive and negative predictive value 73% & 98% respectively. Relative to microscopy, the device has shown sensitivity 94.6% and specificity 88.52% for detection of P. falciparum with positive and negative predictive value 72% and 98% respectively. The device sensitivity and specificity for detection of P. vivax were 100% and 93.1% with respective positive and negative predictive value 47% and 100%. Malariagen Malaria Pf/Pv Antigen Rapid Test (RDT) performs as a better sensor and discriminator of malarial parasites and their species and appears to be an acceptable tool for diagnosis of malaria in symptomatic patient.
[Pubmed: 20046179]
| | 27. |
2010 Jan |
Procedural Sedation in Children for Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Comparison between Ketamine Diazepam Combination with Midazolam Fentanyl Combination.
Maruf AA, Hossain MD, Ahmed M, Samsad IA
Mymensingh Med J. 2010 Jan;19(1):60-5.
Abstract
A deeper level of sedation by an anaesthesiologist is requirement for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in paediatric populations and sedation of children is different from sedation of adults. The purpose of the study was to compare the efficacy, safety, tolerability and cost effectiveness of ketamine, diazepam combination to midazolam, fentanyl combination for sedation of children during MRI. One hundred twenty children of both sex, age between 1-10 years, American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) physical status I and II were distributed into two groups. Group A (n=60) were sedated with 1.5 mg/kg body weight ketamine and 0.1mg/kg body weight diazepam intravenously. Group B (n=60) were sedated with midazolam 0.05 mg/kg bodyweight and fentanyl 1mug/kg body weight intravenously. Both groups showed satisfactory sedating condition for MRI. Incidences of side effects of drug regimens during sedation and recovery were recorded in both groups; those were transient and minor inconveniences. Pulse, blood pressure and respiration were within normal range in both groups. Mean procedure time was almost same in both groups and mean recovery time was more in group A than group B and the difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). Every child of both groups was discharged to home. Sedation regimen of group B found 5 times more costly than group A. Both the regimens were found safe and effective for paediatric sedation during MRI but ketamine, diazepam combination found more cost effective which, is a considerable matter in Bangladesh.
[Pubmed: 20046173]
| | 28. |
2010 Jan |
On the origin of the maternal age effect in trisomy 21 Down syndrome: the Oocyte Mosaicism Selection model.
Hultén MA, Patel S, Jonasson J, Iwarsson E
Reproduction. 2010 Jan;139(1):1-9.
Abstract
We have recently documented that trisomy 21 mosaicism is common in human foetal ovaries. On the basis of this observation we propose that the maternal age effect in Down syndrome (DS) is caused by the differential behaviour of trisomy 21 in relation to disomy 21 oocytes during development from foetal life until ovulation in adulthood. In particular, we suggest that trisomy 21 oocytes, lagging behind those that are disomic, may escape the timed pruning of the seven million in foetal life to the 300-400 finally selected for ovulation. The net effect of this preferential elimination will be an accumulation of trisomy 21 oocytes in the ovarian reserve of older women. We here highlight the implications of this Oocyte Mosaicism Selection (OMS) model with respect to the prevalent view that the maternal age effect is complex, dependent on many different biological and environmental factors. We examine conclusions drawn from recent large-scale studies in families, tracing DNA markers along the length of chromosome 21q between parents and DS children, in comparison to the OMS model. We conclude that these family linkage data are equally compatible with the maternal age effect originating from the accumulation of trisomy 21 oocytes with advancing maternal age. One relatively straightforward way to get to grips with what is actually going on in this regard would be to compare incidence of trisomy 21 oocytes (and their pairing configurations) in foetal ovaries with that in oocytes at the meiosis I stage from adult women.
[Pubmed: 19755486]
| | 29. |
2009 Dec 29 |
Cloning and molecular characterization of Dashurin encoded by C20orf116, a PCI-domain containing protein.
Neziri D, Ilhan A, Maj M, Majdic O, Baumgartner-Parzer S, Cohen G, Base W, Wagner L
Biochim Biophys Acta. 2009 Dec 29; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Characterization of gene products originating from undefined open reading frames and delineation of biological functions has become the task after the human genome has been decoded. METHODS: We cloned the human C20orf 116 and defined its transcript in liver, kidney and various brain regions by Northern analysis. Antibodies against recombinant protein used for immunofluorescence and immunoblots confirmed its expression in these tissues. With the focus on kidney, its tubular expression and presence in glomerula were shown. RESULTS: A 28 aa long signal peptide predicted by in silico analysis is reflected by visualization of size variants of approximately 3kDa difference suggesting a signal peptidase cleavage of the proform. Cell compartment separation confirmed the presence of Dashurin in peroxisomes/mitochondria, microsomes, cytosol and nucleus. This is in line with green fluorescent protein (GFP)-Dashurin fusion protein shuttling between cytosol and nucleus. Luciferase reporter studies revealed a 2-3 fold increase of promoter activities upon over-expression. Bioinformatic analysis identified a PCI-domain at the C-terminus providing protein-protein interaction capabilities. CONCLUSION: Our present findings suggest the involvement of Dashurin in gene transcription or mRNA translation. GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE: Dashurin shares the PCI-domain with three multisubunit protein complexes (26S proteasome, COP9 signalosome and eIF3 translation initiation factor).
[Pubmed: 20036718]
| | 30. |
2009 Dec 18 |
mTOR S2481 autophosphorylation monitors mTORC-specific catalytic activity and clarifies rapamycin mechanism of action.
Soliman GA, Acosta-Jaquez HA, Dunlop EA, Ekim B, Maj NE, Tee AR, Fingar DC
J Biol Chem. 2009 Dec 18; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) Ser/Thr kinase signals in at least two multi-protein complexes distinguished by their different partners and sensitivities to rapamycin. Acute rapamycin inhibits signaling by mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) but not mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2), which both promote cell growth, proliferation, and survival. While mTORC2 regulation remains poorly defined, diverse cellular mitogens activate mTORC1 signaling in a manner that requires sufficient levels of amino acids and cellular energy. Prior to the identification of distinct mTOR complexes, mTOR was reported to autophosphorylate on S2481 in vivo in a rapamycin- and amino acid-insensitive manner. These results suggested that modulation of mTOR intrinsic catalytic activity does not universally underlie mTOR regulation. Here we re-examine the regulation of mTOR S2481 autophosphorylation (P-S2481) in vivo by studying mTORC-specific P-S2481 in mTORC1 and mTORC2, with a primary focus on mTORC1. In contrast to previous work, we find that acute rapamycin and amino acid withdrawal markedly attenuate mTORC1-associated mTOR P-S2481 in cycling cells. While insulin stimulates both mTORC1- and mTORC2-associated mTOR P-S2481 in a PI3K-dependent manner, rapamycin acutely inhibits insulin-stimulated mTOR P-S2481 in mTORC1 but not mTORC2. By interrogating diverse mTORC1 regulatory inputs, we find that without exception mTORC1-activating signals promote while mTORC1-inhibitory signals decrease mTORC1-associated mTOR P-S2481. These data suggest that mTORC1- and likely mTORC2-associated mTOR S2481 autophosphorylation directly monitors intrinsic mTORC-specific catalytic activity and reveal that rapamycin inhibits mTORC1 signaling in vivo by reducing mTORC1 catalytic activity.
[Pubmed: 20022946]
| | 31. |
2009 Dec 16 |
Obsessive-compulsive disorder with poor insight: A three-year prospective study.
Catapano F, Perris F, Fabrazzo M, Cioffi V, Giacco D, De Santis V, Maj M
Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry. 2009 Dec 16; [Epub ahead of print]
Abstract
Available evidence about the relationship between poor insight and other clinical characteristics in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is inconclusive and conflicting. There is also a paucity of data on the long-term course and treatment outcome of OCD patients with poor insight. The present study reports the findings of a relatively large sample (n=106) of outpatients fulfilling DSM-IV criteria for OCD, treated with serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) and prospectively followed up for 3years. Baseline information was collected on demographic and clinical characteristics, using standardized instruments. Insight was assessed by means of the Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale (BABS). Eighty-three patients were followed prospectively and evaluated systematically by validated measures of psychopathology. Compared to their good insight counterparts, the OCD patients with poor insight (22%) showed a greater severity of obsessive-compulsive and depressive symptomatology; an earlier age at onset; a higher rate of schizophrenia spectrum disorder in their first-degree relatives; a higher comorbidity with schizotypal personality disorder. During the follow-up period, poor insight OCD patients were less likely to achieve at least a partial remission of obsessive-compulsive symptoms; required a significantly greater number of therapeutic trials; received more frequently augmentation with antipsychotics. The results suggest that the specifier "poor insight" helps to identify a subgroup of patients at the more severe end of OCD spectrum, characterized by a more complex clinical presentation, a diminished response to standard pharmacological interventions, and a poorer prognosis. Further research is needed to identify alternative strategies for the management of these patients.
[Pubmed: 20015461]
| | 32. |
2009 Jul 03 |
Altered expression and modulation of activity-regulated cytoskeletal associated protein (Arc) in serotonin transporter knockout rats.
Molteni R, Calabrese F, Maj PF, Olivier JD, Racagni G, Ellenbroek BA, Riva MA
Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2009 Dec;19(12):898-904. Epub 2009 Jul 03.
Abstract
A gene variant in the human serotonin transporter (SERT) can increase the vulnerability to mood disorders. SERT knockout animals show similarities to the human condition and represent an important tool to investigate the mechanisms underlying the pathologic condition in humans. Along this line of thinking, we used SERT KO rats (SERT(+/-) and SERT(-/-)) to investigate abnormalities in the expression and function of the activity-regulated gene Arc (Activity-regulated cytoskeletal associated protein) and the early inducible gene Zif-268, (zinc finger binding protein clone 268), which are important players in neuronal plasticity. We found lower basal Arc mRNA levels in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex of mutant rats in comparison with wild-type animals. Moreover SERT mutant rats show altered stress responsiveness. Indeed an acute swim stress significantly up-regulated the levels of Arc mRNA in hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, as well as of Zif-268 in frontal cortex, only in SERT(+/-) and SERT(-/-) rats. These alterations may be associated to behavioral traits linked to SERT and may contribute to the neuroplastic and morphological changes observed in depression.
[Pubmed: 19576731]
| | 33. |
2009 Oct |
WPA-WHO collaborative activities 2009-2011.
Maj M
World Psychiatry. 2009 Oct;8(3):129-30.
[Pubmed: 19812741]
| | 34. |
2009 Sep 1 |
Improved hospital-level risk adjustment for surveillance of healthcare-associated bloodstream infections: a retrospective cohort study
Tong, Clements, Haynes, Jones, Morton, Whitby
BMC Infect Dis 2009 Sep 1;9:145. published online before print
Abstract
To allow direct comparison of bloodstream infection (BSI) rates between hospitals for performance measurement, observed rates need to be risk adjusted according to the types of patients cared for by the hospital. However, attribute data on all individual patients are often unavailable and hospital-level risk adjustment needs to be done using indirect indicator variables of patient case mix, such as hospital level. We aimed to identify medical services associated with high or low BSI rates, and to evaluate the services provided by the hospital as indicators that can be used for more objective hospital-level risk adjustment.
[Pubmed: 19719852]
| | 35. |
2009 Dec 31 |
A genomic glimpse of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases in malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Bhatt, Kapil, Khan, Jairajpuri, Sharma, Santoni, Silvestrini, Pizzi, Sharma
BMC Genomics 2009 Dec 31;10:644. published online before print
Abstract
Plasmodium parasites are causative agents of malaria which affects >500 million people and claims ~2 million lives annually. The completion of Plasmodium genome sequencing and availability of PlasmoDB database has provided a platform for systematic study of parasite genome. Aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases (aaRSs) are pivotal enzymes for protein translation and other vital cellular processes. We report an extensive analysis of the Plasmodium falciparum genome to identify and classify aaRSs in this organism.
[Pubmed: 20042123]
| | 36. |
2010 Jan 29 |
Neurophysiological Distinction between Schizophrenia and Schizoaffective Disorder
Mathalon, Hoffman, Watson, Miller, Roach, Ford
Front Hum Neurosci 2010 Jan 29;3. published online before print
Abstract
Schizoaffective disorder (SA) is distinguished from schizophrenia (SZ) based on the presence of prominent mood symptoms over the illness course. Despite this clinical distinction, SA and SZ patients are often combined in research studies, in part because data supporting a distinct pathophysiological boundary between the disorders are lacking. Indeed, few studies have addressed whether neurobiological abnormalities associated with SZ, such as the widely replicated reduction and delay of the P300 event-related potential (ERP), are also present in SA. Scalp EEG was acquired from patients with DSM-IV SA (n = 15) or SZ (n = 22), as well as healthy controls (HC; n = 22) to assess the P300 elicited by infrequent target (15%) and task-irrelevant distractor (15%) stimuli in separate auditory and visual ”oddball” tasks. P300 amplitude was reduced and delayed in SZ, relative to HC, consistent with prior studies. These SZ abnormalities did not interact with stimulus type (target vs. task-irrelevant distractor) or modality (auditory vs. visual). Across sensory modality and stimulus type, SA patients exhibited normal P300 amplitudes (significantly larger than SZ patients and indistinguishable from HC). However, P300 latency and reaction time were both equivalently delayed in SZ and SA patients, relative to HC. P300 differences between SA and SZ patients could not be accounted for by variation in symptom severity, socio-economic status, education, or illness duration. Although both groups show similar deficits in processing speed, SA patients do not exhibit the P300 amplitude deficits evident in SZ, consistent with an underlying pathophysiological boundary between these disorders.
[Pubmed: 20140266]
| | 37. |
2010 Feb |
The WPA Regional Meeting in Abuja, Nigeria, 22-24 October 2009
GUREJE
World Psychiatry 2010 Feb;9(1):63-64.
[Pubmed: 20148165]
| | 38. |
2009 Jul 09 |
Obesity and depression in US women: results from the 2005-2006 National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey.
Ma J, Xiao L
Obesity (Silver Spring). 2010 Feb;18(2):347-53. Epub 2009 Jul 09.
Abstract
Research is needed to better elucidate the relationship between obesity and depression, which has been most consistently demonstrated for women, but not for men. We examined exclusively a population-based sample of US women who participated in the 2005 or 2006 National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey. Current depression was defined as having a score of > or =10 (a conventional threshold for moderate symptoms of depression) or meeting the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) diagnostic criteria for major depression on the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire. Weight and height were measured and BMI was calculated. Waist circumference, a clinical measure of abdominal obesity, was also measured. BMI was positively associated with the probability of moderate/severe depressive symptoms (r = 0.49, P = 0.03) and major depression (r = 0.72, P < 0.0001). The probability curves increased progressively, beginning at BMI of 30. Degree of obesity was an independent risk factor for depression even within the obese population, and women in obesity class 3 (BMI > or =40) were at particular risk (odds ratio (OR) = 4.91, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.17-20.57), compared to those in obesity class 1 (BMI 30 to <35). Abdominal obesity was positively associated with depressive symptoms, but not major depression, independent of general obesity (BMI). In addition to severe obesity, compromised physical health status, young or middle-aged adulthood, low income, and relatively high education were also independently associated with greater odds of depressive symptoms among obese women. These characteristics may identify specific at-risk subgroups of obese women in which hypothesized causal pathways and effective preventive and therapeutic interventions can be profitably investigated.
[Pubmed: 19590500]
| | 39. |
2009 Oct 12 |
Variations in 5-HTTLPR: relation to familiar risk of affective disorder, life events, neuroticism and cortisol.
Vinberg M, Mellerup E, Andersen PK, Bennike B, Kessing LV
Prog. Neuropsychopharmacol. Biol. Psychiatry. 2010 Feb 1;34(1):86-91. Epub 2009 Oct 12.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Variations in the serotonin transporter gene (5-HTTLPR) and stressful life events are associated with affective disorders. AIM: To investigate whether the distribution of the alleles of the 5-HTTLPR is associated with a genetic predisposition to affective disorder and whether these variations interact with life events in relation to depressive symptoms, neuroticism and salivary cortisol. METHOD: In a high-risk population study, healthy monozygotic and dizygotic twins with (high-risk twins) and without (low-risk twins) a co-twin history of affective disorder were identified through nationwide registers. RESULTS: When comparing the 81 individuals homozygote for the long allele with the 125 individuals hetero- and homozygote for the short allele no associations between the allele distribution and a genetic predisposition were found. The presence of the short allele of the 5-HTTLPR and the experience of SLE was associated with a higher neuroticism score, but not with depressive symptoms nor awakening or evening salivary cortisol. CONCLUSION: A combination of variants in 5-HTTLPR and environmental stress seems to increase neuroticism in healthy individuals.
[Pubmed: 19822181]
| | 40. |
2010 Feb |
Are psychiatrists an endangered species?
Maj M
World Psychiatry. 2010 Feb;9(1):1-2.
[Pubmed: 20148145]
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