Farhana Shahzad; Shahzad Tawwab; Nadeem Afzal
Volume 7, Issue 2 , June 2010, , Pages 109-116
Abstract
Background: Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory and multifactorial disease, with a high prevalence rate in Pakistan. Objective: To find a relation between serum IL-4 and IgE levels with oxidized LDL in atherosclerosis. Methods: In this observational, cross sectional study 99 male patients, between forty ...
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Background: Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory and multifactorial disease, with a high prevalence rate in Pakistan. Objective: To find a relation between serum IL-4 and IgE levels with oxidized LDL in atherosclerosis. Methods: In this observational, cross sectional study 99 male patients, between forty and sixty years of age, with a history of ischemic heart disease (IHD) and established atherosclerotic plaques on angiography were recruited. The study was completed within three years (Jan 2007 to Jan 2009). One hundred and one age and gender matched healthy subjects with no known history of IHD were also recruited. All the study participants were non-diabetics. Serum IL-4, IgE and oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) levels were measured by quantitative ELISA technique. Results: Serum IL-4 levels were generally undetectable or very low, but were higher in the patient group compared to the control subjects. Similarly, oxidized LDL and serum IgE levels were also increased in the patient group compared to the control, but the differences were not statistically significant. Conclusion: Our study could not detect any relationship between IL-4 and IgE levels with LDL oxidation in atherosclerosis.
Fatemeh Malaei; Mahdi Hesaraki; Mojtaba Saadati; Ali Mohammad Ahdi; Mohammad Sadraeian; Hussein Honari; Shahram Nazarian
Volume 10, Issue 2 , June 2013, , Pages 110-117
Abstract
Background: Recombinant vaccine technology is one of the most developed means in controlling infectious diseases. However, an effective vaccine against Shigella is still missing. Objective: To evaluate recombinant IpaC protein of Shigella as a vaccine candidate. Methods: In this study we cloned IpaC ...
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Background: Recombinant vaccine technology is one of the most developed means in controlling infectious diseases. However, an effective vaccine against Shigella is still missing. Objective: To evaluate recombinant IpaC protein of Shigella as a vaccine candidate. Methods: In this study we cloned IpaC gene into an expression vector in prokaryotic system. The protein expression was evaluated by SDS-PAGE and Western-Blotting analysis. The recombinant protein was purified using Ni–NTA affinity chromatography. Guinea pigs were immunized with the recombinant protein and the level of immunogenicity was examined by ELISA and Western blotting of IpaC. Challenge test was done through the intraoculary injection of Shigella dysenteriae (6×108 CFU/eye) and after 48 hours was scored for keratoconjunctivitis. Results: The results showed a remarkable level of immunogenicity in terms of antibody response and protection against keratoconjunctivitis in tested animals. The recombinant IpaC protein provided a protective system against Shigella dysenteriae type I during the challenge test. Conclusion: The results showed the potential of using recombinant IpaC in preparation of vaccine in perspective studies.
Maryam Rastin; Mohammad Reza Hatef; Nafise Tabasi; Akram Sheikh; Javid Morad Abbasi; Mahmoud Mahmoudi
Volume 4, Issue 2 , June 2007, , Pages 110-115
Abstract
Background: Systemic Lupus Eyrythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease charac-terized by antibodies to nuclear antigens, particularly anti-dsDNA. Imbalance between production and destruction of immune cells causes cytopenia. Sex hormones have im-munomodulatory effects; estrogen increases the production ...
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Background: Systemic Lupus Eyrythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease charac-terized by antibodies to nuclear antigens, particularly anti-dsDNA. Imbalance between production and destruction of immune cells causes cytopenia. Sex hormones have im-munomodulatory effects; estrogen increases the production of autoantibodies in SLE prone NZB/NZW mice. Objective: To investigate the relationship between sex hor-mones, anti-dsDNA, and lymphocyte subsets in Iranian patients with SLE. Methods: 38 SLE patients (28 females and 10 males) meeting 4 of 11 ACR revised criteria for SLE classification, and 20 age and sex matched healthy individuals (10 females and 10 males) participated in this study. Lymphocyte subsets were analyzed using flow cy-tometric analysis. Serum anti-dsDNA levels and sex hormones concentrations were de-termined using commercial ELISA and RIA kits, respectively. Results: The absolute count of white blood cells, lymphocytes, T lymphocytes (CD3+), T helper cells (CD3+CD4+), B cells (CD19+) and Nk cells (CD3- CD16+CD56+) in SLE patients di-minished significantly in comparison to control group (p<0.05). IgG anti-dsDNA anti-body levels were significantly higher in patients compared to controls as expected (p<0.05). Prolactin increased significantly, while DHEAS showed a significant decrease in SLE patients compared with the controls (p<0.05), however the level of estrogen did not have any significant difference in SLE patients in comparison to controls. Conclusion: Increased concentration of prolactin together with a simultaneous decrease in serum DHEAS in SLE patients are associated with anti-dsDNA elevation and a decrease in almost all lymphocyte subsets.
Annamaria Marton; Csongor Kolozsi; Erzsebet Kusz; Zoltan Olah; Tamas Letoha; Csaba Vizler; Laszlo Pecze
Volume 11, Issue 2 , June 2014, , Pages 113-122
Abstract
Background : Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol, PG) is a commonly used solvent for oral, intravenous, as well as topical pharmaceutical preparations. While PG is generally considered to be safe, it has been known that large intravenous doses given over a short period of time can be toxic. Objective: ...
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Background : Propylene glycol (1,2-propanediol, PG) is a commonly used solvent for oral, intravenous, as well as topical pharmaceutical preparations. While PG is generally considered to be safe, it has been known that large intravenous doses given over a short period of time can be toxic. Objective: To evaluate the effect of PG in sepsis induced by the bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Methods: Balb/c mice were treated with LPS (1 mg/kg b.w., i.p.) with or without PG (5 g/kg b.w. i.v.). The survival rate and the production of inflammatory cytokines were measured. In RAW264.7 mouse macrophages encoding NF- B-luc reporter gene, the nuclear transcription factor kappa- B (NF- B) activation was measured. Results: We found that intravenous PG increased the mortality rate in sepsis induced by the bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice. In accordance with that, PG enhanced LPS -induced production of inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF -α) and interleukin-6 (IL -6) in vivo. PG also increased the LPS-induced macrophage activation in vitro as detected by measuring NF- B activation. Conclusion: Our results indicate that drugs containing high doses of PG can pose a risk when administered to patients suffering from or prone to Gram negative bacterial infection.
Ali Akbar Amirzargar; Abdol Ali Danesh; Farideh Khosravi; Mohammad Hossein Niknam; Behrouz Nikbin
Volume 1, Issue 2 , September 2004, , Pages 125-129
Abstract
Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) has recently become a major problem in developed countries especially in immune compromised HIV infected individuals. Cytokines, their genes and receptors have been implicated in the protective immunity, pathophysiology and development of tuberculosis. ...
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Background: Pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) has recently become a major problem in developed countries especially in immune compromised HIV infected individuals. Cytokines, their genes and receptors have been implicated in the protective immunity, pathophysiology and development of tuberculosis. Material & Methods: In the present study the genotype frequencies of a number of polymorphic genes coding for cytokines or for cytokine receptors have been investigated in a case control study including a group of 40 Iranian PTB patients and 40 healthy individuals. The allelic polymorphism of cytokines SNPs were analyzed according to the protocols of the cytokine component designed for the 13th IHW by the Heidelberg University group. Using PCR-SSP method the following cytokine genes have been determined: IL-1 ¿ (T/C –889), IL-1¾ (C/T +3962), IL-1R (C/T pstI 1970), IL-1RA ( T/C mspaI 1100), IL-4RA (G/A +1902), IL- 12 (C/A –1188), TGF- ¾ (C/T codon 10, G/C codon 25), TNF-¿ (G/A –308, G/A –238), IL-2 (T/G –330 G/T +166), IL-4 (T/G –1098, T/C –590, T/C –33), IL-6 (G/C –174, G/A nt 560), IL-10 (G/A –1082, C/T –819, C/A –592). Results: From IL-1R cluster (pro- inflammatory cytokines) a positive significant association was found at position pstI 1970 C/T polymorphism where the C allele was over presented in the PTB patients (60% vs. 37.5%, P = 0.04). A significant negative association at codon 10 TGF- ¾ C/T polymorphism has also been shown in our patients, where the T allele was not detected in the patients but 10% of the control subjects expressed this allele (Fisher exact test, P = 0.05). At this codon allele T (Leucine substitution) is associated with high TGF- ¾ production. For TNF ¿ an insignificant tendency was found at position -308 A/G polymorphism where the G allele carried by 80% of cases and 65% of controls (P = 0.07). At position -238 a negative association was found at the GA polymorphism (10% vs. 25%, P = 0.07). For IL-6 an insignificant positive association at position -174 C/G polymorphism, G allele (57.5% vs. 37.5, P = 0.07) was found. At the other cytokine genes no specific association were found. Conclusion: In conclusion it is suggested that C allele at position pstI 1970 of IL-1 cluster increases and T allele at codon 10 of TGF- ¾ decreases in PTB patients.
Mohammad Mahdi Hayatbakhsh; Mohammad Javad Zahedi; Mohsen Shafiepour; Amin Reza Nikpoor; Mojgan Mohammadi
Volume 9, Issue 2 , June 2012, , Pages 128-135
Abstract
Background: Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are two major clinical presentations of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Many novel candidate genes have been found to be associated with increased risk for IBD. Recently IL-23 receptor gene is identified as an IBD associated gene in ...
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Background: Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are two major clinical presentations of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Many novel candidate genes have been found to be associated with increased risk for IBD. Recently IL-23 receptor gene is identified as an IBD associated gene in genome-wide studies. Objective: To ascertain whether rs7517847 and rs1004819 SNPs in the IL-23 receptor gene are associated with UC in our population in Kerman, south east of Iran. Methods: A total of 85 patients with UC and 100 healthy controls enrolled in our study. Endoscopic procedure was performed for all patients to determine their disease severity. IL-23 receptor genotyping at positions rs7517847 and rs1004819 was done by PCR-RFLP technique. Results: The results of this study showed no association between the studied polymorphisms in the IL-23 receptor gene and UC in our population. However, we found a significant association between rs7517847 gene polymorphism in IL-23 receptor and two important clinical variables including blood in stool and bowel movements in UC patients. Conclusion: The rs7517847 gene polymorphism in IL-23R may be related to the presence of blood in stool and bowel movements in patients with UC. Further functional analysis with other known IL-23 receptor genotypes and/or other candidate genes is necessary to confirm any genetic association with UC in our population.
Marek Fol; Magdalena Kowalewicz-Kulbat; El ż bieta Ograczyk; Marcin W ł odarczyk; Krzysztof Krawczyk
Volume 13, Issue 2 , June 2016, , Pages 132-140
Abstract
Background: The immunomagnetic separation technique is the basis of monocyte isolation and further generation of monocyte-derived dendritic cells. Objective: To compare the efficiency of monocyte positive and negative separation, concentration of beads, and their impact on generated dendritic cells. ...
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Background: The immunomagnetic separation technique is the basis of monocyte isolation and further generation of monocyte-derived dendritic cells. Objective: To compare the efficiency of monocyte positive and negative separation, concentration of beads, and their impact on generated dendritic cells. Methods: Monocytes were obtained using monoclonal antibody-coated magnetic beads followed the Ficoll-Paque gradient separation of mononuclear cell fraction from the peripheral blood of 6 healthy volunteers. CD14 expression was analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: The percentage of MDDCs generated from monocytes obtained by positive and negative selection was comparable (51.8 ± 15.0 and 46.7 ± 3.4, respectively; p=0.885). The median values for the number of MDDCs obtained from monocytes after positive selection (3.9 × 106) and for MDDCs obtained from monocytes after negative selection (3.1 × 106) were comparable (p=0.194). The use of the recommended or half of the amount of beads for both types of separation had no significant influence on the percentage of isolated cells. Conclusions: Both types of magnetic separation including recommended and reduced concentrations of beads did not affect the yield and the purity of monocytes and their surface CD14 expression. However, DCs originated from the “positively” separated monocytes had noticeable higher expression of CD80.
Alireza Nikseresht; Mohammad Ali Azizi; Behrouz Gharesi-Fard; Eskandar Kamali Sarvestani
Volume 3, Issue 3 , September 2006, , Pages 136-141
Abstract
Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the most common demyelinating disease of the CNS, is immunologically mediated in genetically susceptible individuals. Receptors for the Fc fragment of IgG (FcγR) might induce inflammatory responses through linking the humoral and cellular immune responses by ...
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Background: Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the most common demyelinating disease of the CNS, is immunologically mediated in genetically susceptible individuals. Receptors for the Fc fragment of IgG (FcγR) might induce inflammatory responses through linking the humoral and cellular immune responses by targeting immune complexes to effector cells. Polymorphisms in some FcγR genes are associated with various infectious and autoimmune diseases, probably due to their effects on different binding capacities of encoded receptors for IgG containing immune complexes. Objective: To investigate the importance of FcγR polymorphisms in susceptibility to MS. Method: One hundred and fifty MS patients and 136 age and sex matched controls were genotyped for FcγRIIA and FcγRIIIA gene polymorphisms using PCR-RFLP method. Result: The allelic and genotypic frequencies of the FcγRIIA and FcγRIIIA did not differ significantly between the MS patients and controls. There was no association between allelic polymorphism of FcγRIIIA and severity of disease based on Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score. However, significant association between inherited FcγRIIA genotype and disease activity (p=0.001) or progression index was revealed (p=0.014). EDSS values showed that FcγRIIA (H/H) and (H/R) genotypes were associated with a lower EDSS score in relapsing-remitting MS and in the total MS population (P=0.001) but not (R/R) genotype. Conclusion: Considering the detrimental role of autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of MS, our results suggest that the inherited FcγRIIA alleles could affect the severity of MS by influencing the clearance rate of immune complexes and autoantibodies. The results of the present study add the FcγRIIA gene to the gene networks which determine the severity of MS in southern Iran.
Eman Farid; Hasan M Isa; Mohamed Al Nasef; Rawia Mohamed; Huda Jamsheer
Volume 12, Issue 2 , June 2015, , Pages 141-148
Abstract
Background: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in childhood has variable modes of presentation, and the disease should be suspected and excluded in all children presenting with symptoms and signs of prolonged or severe acute liver disease. In AIH, the liver biopsy histopathology shows inflammation in addition ...
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Background: Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) in childhood has variable modes of presentation, and the disease should be suspected and excluded in all children presenting with symptoms and signs of prolonged or severe acute liver disease. In AIH, the liver biopsy histopathology shows inflammation in addition to presence of serum autoimmune antibodies and increased levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG). Objectives: To investigate the situation of childhood autoimmune hepatitis in Bahrain and to compare it with other studies worldwide. Methods: A retrospective study describing the AIH pediatric cases diagnosed during the period of Jan 2005 to Dec 2009. We report the clinical, biochemical, histopathological, and immunological findings, mainly autoimmune profile, in addition to response to treatment, of Bahraini children with autoimmune hepatitis. Results: Five Bahraini children, three females and two males were diagnosed as autoimmune hepatitis during the study period. Their ages at presentation ranged from 9 to 15 (median 10.6) years. One of our patients had a fulminating type. Two had other autoimmune related conditions, namely autoimmune sclerosing cholangitis and ulcerative colitis. All were AIH type 1. Variable response to conventional immunosuppressive therapy was found, from an excellent response with good prognosis, to cirrhosis, hepatic failure and liver transplantation. Conclusion: Childhood AIH is a rare medical problem in Bahrain, with both sexes affected and a variable response to immunosuppressive therapy.
Roya Adelnia; Fatemeh Shafiee
Abstract
Background: Anakinra (Kineret®), an IL-1 receptor antagonist, is the first FDA approved biologic drug for antagonizing IL-1 effects in patients with Rheumatoid arthritis. Notably, the less expensive production of this drug might help reduce the final therapeutic costs. Objectives: This study aimed ...
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Background: Anakinra (Kineret®), an IL-1 receptor antagonist, is the first FDA approved biologic drug for antagonizing IL-1 effects in patients with Rheumatoid arthritis. Notably, the less expensive production of this drug might help reduce the final therapeutic costs. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the possibility of producing biologically active recombinant IL-1Ra by a single step purification procedure mediated by a self-cleavable intein. Methods: Soluble expression of the rIL-1Ra was performed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) in fusion to intein1 of pTWIN-1 vector and its cleavage induction using an elution buffer (pH 6.8) at room temperature. Evaluation of the antagonizing efficacy of this protein in various concentrations, was performed on A375 and HEK293 cells treated by a constant concentration of IL-1β (2ng/mL). Results: IPTG induction of E. coli BL21 (DE3) transformed with the recombinant pTWIN-1, revealed a band approximately in 45 kDa, which is related to the intein1-rIL-1Ra fusion protein in the SDS-PAGE. Moreover, protein purification was confirmed by observing a band in 18 kDa. Finally, the percentage of inhibition effects of rIL-1Ra and Kineret® against IL-1β was not statistically significant in IL-1-responsive A375 cells. The inhibition percentage was calculated as 86% in cells treated with 15µg/mL of rIL-1Ra, which it was 96% for the inhibitory effects of the standard drug. Conclusion: In this study, biologically active soluble rIL1-Ra was successfully produced with high purity through a one-step procedure. This method can reduce the cost and time of production for this protein and might be applicable for producing other biologics.
Yolanda Cataño Cañizalez; Edith Uresti Rivera; Rocio Garcia Jacobo; Diana Portales Perez; Yadira Bastian; J Rodriguez Rivera; Roberto Gonzalez Amaro; Jose Enciso Moreno; Mariana Garcia Hernandez
Abstract
Background: Chronic inflammation has critical role in Type 2 diabetes (T2D), in which IL-1β contributes in insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction. The activation of NLRP3 and AIM2 by endogens ligands, such as mtDNA can lead to the release of active form of IL-1β. Objective: To evaluate ...
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Background: Chronic inflammation has critical role in Type 2 diabetes (T2D), in which IL-1β contributes in insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction. The activation of NLRP3 and AIM2 by endogens ligands, such as mtDNA can lead to the release of active form of IL-1β. Objective: To evaluate AIM2 expression and activation as well as circulating mtDNA levels in T2D patients. Methods: AIM2 expression was analyzed by flow cytometry, it’s activity was assessed by measuring in vitro release of IL-1β induced by Poly (dA:dT), and mtDNA copy number was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results: Increased percent of AIM2+ cells were detected in monocytes from patients with T2D. Moreover, increased levels of IL-1β in monocytes cultures from T2D patients compared to healthy controls were observed. Also, association between AIM2+ cells and hyperglycemia (r=0.4385, P=0.0095) and triglycerides levels (r=0.5112, P=0.002) and waist-hip ratio (r=0.4710, P=0.0049) were detected. Likewise, the mtDNA copy number was augmented in T2D patients compared to control group. The mtDNA copies number was associated with body mass index (r=0.4231, P=0.0008) and TNF-α levels (r=0.5231, P=0.0005). In addition, increased levels of IL-12p70, TNF-a, IL-10, IL-6, IL-8 and IL-1β were detected in a serum from T2D patients. Conclusion: These results suggest the involvement of AIM2 and mtDNA in the inflammatory process seen in T2D.
Kiandokht Borhani; Taravat Bamdad; Tayebeh Hashempour
Volume 14, Issue 2 , June 2017, , Pages 151-158
Abstract
Background: Lenalidomide, a synthetic immunomodulatory drug, has a wide range of features including anti-angiogenic and anti-proliferative properties. To date, researchers have shown that lenalidomide is capable of ameliorating the immune system factors and antitumor responses. Most researchers have ...
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Background: Lenalidomide, a synthetic immunomodulatory drug, has a wide range of features including anti-angiogenic and anti-proliferative properties. To date, researchers have shown that lenalidomide is capable of ameliorating the immune system factors and antitumor responses. Most researchers have reported that lenalidomide enhances the immune response in certain cancer patients through several pathways including the stimulation of Natural Killer cells; notwithstanding, it is still crucial to investigate the effect of lenalidomide on the activity of NK cell cytotoxicity both in vitro and in vivo. Objective: To evaluate the in vitro impact of lenalidomide, of different doses, on NK cytotoxicity activity and an in vivo investigation to find the adjuvant behavior of lenalidomide. Methods: NK cytotoxocity was measured with the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay via K562 cells. Lenalidomide was prepared at 1 mM, 2 mM, 4 mM and 8 mM for in vitro study. In addition, the adjuvant properties of lenalidomide were assessed in ten mice groups using NS3 HCV DNA vaccine model of antigen pcDNA3.1(+)/NS3. Results: The results showed that, comparisons to other doses, 4 mMol of lenalidomide was able to noticeably increase NK cytotoxicity activity. Furthermore, the animal model indicated that lenalidomide stimulated NK cytotoxicity in vivo, augmenting it from 16.67% ± 2.07% for the control group to 38.17% ± 2.87% for the lenalidomide-treated. Conclusion: Treatment by lenalidomide and pcDNA3.1(+)/NS3 improves NK cytotoxicity up to 66.80% suggesting that lenalidomide can be used in parallel with such therapeutic vaccines as cancer vaccine or virus vaccines.
Majid Tarokh; Marefat Ghaffari Novin; Tahereh Poordast; Zohreh Tavana; Hamid Nazarian; Mohsen Norouzian; Behrouz Gharesi-Fard
Abstract
Background: Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with the growth of endometrial cells out of uterus and in the peritoneal cavity. T cell subsets participate in the establishment and progress of the disease by producing different cytokines. Objective: To investigate a group of cytokines related ...
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Background: Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease with the growth of endometrial cells out of uterus and in the peritoneal cavity. T cell subsets participate in the establishment and progress of the disease by producing different cytokines. Objective: To investigate a group of cytokines related to Th1/Th2/Th17/Treg subsets within both peripheral blood and peritoneal fluid (PF) samples from infertile endometriosis women. Methods: Peripheral blood and PF samples were collected from 30 infertile endometriosis and 30 non-endometriosis fertile women during laparoscopy. Concentration of cytokines, including TNF-α, IFN-γ, TGF-β1, IL-4, IL-10, IL-17 and IL- 23 were evaluated using ELISA method. Results: Results indicated that the concentration of IFN-γ within serum was significantly reduced in endometriosis group (p=0.001). Regarding PF cytokines, TGF-β1 was increased in endometriosis group (p=0.030). Furthermore, the ratios of IFN-γ/TGF-β1 and IL-17/IL-23 were significantly different between endometriosis and non-endometriosis women in serum samples (pConclusion: Based on the results of the present study, in women with endometriosis, the disturbance of cytokines network might gradually activate the inflammatory responses and tissue repair, resulting in endometriosis development after several years.
Ali Deeb; Said Hamdoun; Khaled Dababo
Volume 6, Issue 3 , September 2009, , Pages 154-159
Abstract
Background: Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are a heterogeneous family of anti-bodies associated with thrombosis and other complications. Objective: To study the prevalence of aPL in patients with thrombosis at Aleppo University Hospitals, Syria. Methods: One hundred and fifty-seven patients with venous ...
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Background: Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are a heterogeneous family of anti-bodies associated with thrombosis and other complications. Objective: To study the prevalence of aPL in patients with thrombosis at Aleppo University Hospitals, Syria. Methods: One hundred and fifty-seven patients with venous and arterial thrombosis and 63 healthy controls were studied. Anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) and Lupus antico-agulant (LA) were determined. Results: Thirty-four out of 157 (21.7%) patients with thrombosis had some type of aPL. aPL was also found in four healthy subjects (4/63=6.3%). Eighteen patients (11.5%) were positive for LA, 20 (12.7%) for aCL anti-bodies and 4 (2.6%) were positive for more than one aPL. Patients without risk factors for thrombosis and having positive aPL were 23/34 (67.7%). Fourteen out of 78 (17.9%) patients with arterial thrombosis, and 20/79 (25.3%) with venous thrombosis were positive for at least one aPL. Conclusion: Our study showed a significant preva-lence of aPL in patients with thrombosis. It seems that aPL is a risk factor for venous and arterial thrombosis, especially in patients with no conventional risk factors.
Maimun Zulhaidah Arthamin; Anis Sulalah; Resvina -; Chomsin Sulistya Widodo; Agustina Tri Endharti; Edi Widjajanto; Tedy Juliandhy
Abstract
Background: Although there have been many studies investigating the effects of electromagnetic fields on humans cells and tissues, the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields exposure on the cells of the immune system are still controversial. Objective: To investigate the effects of 1800 MHz ...
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Background: Although there have been many studies investigating the effects of electromagnetic fields on humans cells and tissues, the effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic fields exposure on the cells of the immune system are still controversial. Objective: To investigate the effects of 1800 MHz RF-EMF exposure on peripheral blood mononuclear cells by measuring T helper cells count and the cytokine profile under different conditions of durations and distances. Methods: The peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from healthy human subjects were exposed to 1800 MHz RF-EMF, with durations of 15, 30, 45, and 60 minutes and distances of 5 and 25 cm. The effects of RFEMF exposure on the number of CD4+ T cells, and the expression of IL-2,IL-10, and IL-17a after 48 hours of culture were evaluated using flow cytometry. Results: Our findings indicated that closer distance and longer exposure inducedlower number of CD4+ T cells. Similarly the percentagesof IL-2, IL-10 and IL-17a expressing CD4+ T cells weredecreased significantly. The number of IL-2 expressing CD4+T cells wasincreased significantly as the duration of exposure was increased, but the number was decreased after 60 minutes exposure when compared with control group with no exposure. Conclusions: Exposure to RF-EMF for 60 minutes at 5 cm distance causes a significant reduction in the number of CD4+ T cells, IL-2, IL-10 and IL-17a expressing T cells.
Tahereh Mousavi; Nahid Asadi; Majid Tebyanian
Volume 2, Issue 3 , September 2005, , Pages 166-171
Abstract
Background: The incidence of allergic and asthmatic diseases has been continuously increased in both industrial and developing countries. Extracts from various known allergens are used for the diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Objective: To investigate the effects of an extract prepared from Chenopodium ...
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Background: The incidence of allergic and asthmatic diseases has been continuously increased in both industrial and developing countries. Extracts from various known allergens are used for the diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Objective: To investigate the effects of an extract prepared from Chenopodium album (Ch.A.) pollen to induce allergic asthma in BALB/C mice. Methods: BALB/C mice were sensitized by i.p. injection of Ch.A. extract and alum, and an intratracheal instillation of the extract. The bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluids were obtained by cannulating the trachea and lavaging the lungs and examined for eosinophilia. Splenocytes were incubated with Ch.A. extract and cell supernatants were examined for IL-4 and IL-5 by ELISA. Results: We demonstrated that Ch.A. extract treatment in mice increased serum levels of specific IgE and production of IL-4 and IL-5 from splenocytes. An airway eosinophilia was also demonstrated in mice. Conclusion: These results suggest that Ch.A. allergen extract is a potential agent in inducing characteristics of allergic asthma in a mouse model useful in investigational studies.
Behrouz Gharesi-Fard; Jaleh Zolghadri; Leila Foroughinia; Fahimeh Tavazoo; Alamtaj Samsami Dehaghani
Volume 4, Issue 3 , December 2007, , Pages 173-178
Abstract
Background: Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is defined as three or more se-quential abortions before the twentieth week of gestation. There are evidences to sup-port an allo-immunologic mechanism for RSA. One of the methods for treatment of RSA is leukocyte therapy; however there is still controversy ...
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Background: Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is defined as three or more se-quential abortions before the twentieth week of gestation. There are evidences to sup-port an allo-immunologic mechanism for RSA. One of the methods for treatment of RSA is leukocyte therapy; however there is still controversy about effectiveness of this method. Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of leukocyte therapy for treatment of RSA. Methods: Ninety two non-pregnant women with at least three sequential abor-tions (60 primary & 32 secondary aborters) recognized as RSA were referred to our Laboratory for immunotherapy. All the cases were immunized by isolated lymphocytes from their husbands. Fifty to 100 million washed and resuspended mononuclear cells were injected by I.V., S.C., and I.D. route. The result of each injection was checked by WBC cross matching between couples after four weeks of injections. Immunization was repeated in fifth week to a maximum of 3 times if needed. Eighty one age-matched non-pregnant RSA women (52 primary and 29 secondary aborters) with at least three se-quential abortions were also included in this study as controls. The control group was not immunized. Results: 67 out of 92 (72.8%) immunized cases and 44 out of 81 con-trols (54.3%) showed a successful outcome of pregnancy (p<0.02). Comparison of pri-mary and secondary aborters indicated a significantly better outcome only in primary (75% vs. 42.3%. p<0.001) but not in secondary aborters (68.8% vs. 75.9%, p = 0.7). Conclusion: The present investigation showed the effectiveness of leukocyte therapy in primary but not in secondary RSA patients. Despite the current controversy and limita-tion of leukocyte therapy in RSA, the results of our investigation provide evidence sup-porting the use of allo-immunization in improving the outcome of pregnancy in primary RSA patients.
Soheila Alyasin; Mohammad Hossein Karimi; Reza Amin; Maryam Babaei; Sepideh Darougar
Volume 10, Issue 3 , September 2013, , Pages 177-185
Abstract
Background: IL-17 is a major cytokine player in T cell mediated leukocyte associated inflammation. IL-17 is also recognized to participate in the pathophysiology of asthma. Objective: To determine the role of IL-17 in predicting severe asthma. Methods: We obtained serum samples from asthmatic children ...
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Background: IL-17 is a major cytokine player in T cell mediated leukocyte associated inflammation. IL-17 is also recognized to participate in the pathophysiology of asthma. Objective: To determine the role of IL-17 in predicting severe asthma. Methods: We obtained serum samples from asthmatic children under the age of 5-year in three different groups of mild (n=33), moderate (n=28) and severe (n=32) persistent asthma. IL-17 serum concentrations and mRNA expression were determined by ELISA and real time PCR assays, respectively. Results: Serum IL-17 concentrations were significantly higher in patients with severe asthma than the other two groups of children with mild and moderate disease (p=0.00). Mean serum IL-17 values were 142.04 pg/ml in mild group, 180.4 pg/ml in moderate group and 251.25 pg/ml in severe group. IL-17 mRNA levels were also significantly elevated in severe asthmatic patients compared to mild and moderate asthmatic children (p=0.00). Conclusion: Our data reveal an increase in the serum IL-17 concentrations and IL-17 mRNA expressions in children with severe asthma compared to those with mild and moderate forms of the disease.
Kazem Ahmadi; Majid Riazipour
Volume 5, Issue 3 , September 2008, , Pages 177-180
Abstract
Background: T-2 toxin is a mycotoxin of type A trichothecenes produced by several fungal genera such as Fusarium species. Mycotoxins can affect both cell mediated and humoral immune compartments. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investi-gate the effect of T-2 toxin on cytokine production by ...
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Background: T-2 toxin is a mycotoxin of type A trichothecenes produced by several fungal genera such as Fusarium species. Mycotoxins can affect both cell mediated and humoral immune compartments. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investi-gate the effect of T-2 toxin on cytokine production by mouse peritoneal macrophages and lymph node T cells. Methods: Mouse peritoneal macrophages and lymph node T cells were isolated and treated with different concentrations of T-2 toxin and incubated at 370C and 5% CO2 in air for 48 hours. Cell free media were removed and used for cy-tokine assay by an ELISA method. Results: T-2 toxin significantly reduced IL-1β re-lease in a concentration dependent manner (p<0.005, p<0.001). Interleukin-12 and TNF-α production were significantly increased in response to 0.001ng/ml, 0.01ng/ml and 0.1ng/ml of T-2 toxin (p<0.001). However, T-2 toxin at higher concentrations rang-ing from 1ng/ml to 100ng/ml, reduced both IL-12 (p<0.001) and TNF-α production (p<0.005, p<0.05). The effects of T-2 toxin on lymph node T cells showed that IL-4 and IL-10 release was decreased in a concentration dependent manner (all with p<0.01). T-2 toxin at concentrations between 1ng/ml and 100ng/ml reduced the release of both IL-2 and IFN-γ (p<0.05, p<0.001). Conclusion: The results suggest that T-2 toxin at low concentrations can highly induce secretion of IL-12, TNF-α, IFN-γ and IL-2 and it may be used as a positive immunomodulator in the human model.
Mabel Charles-Davies; Ganiyu Arinola; Rasaki Sanusi; Babatunde Osotimehin
Volume 3, Issue 4 , December 2006, , Pages 181-186
Abstract
Background: Breast milk is important for the overall well-being of infants. Although lactation is relatively robust in the face of poor nutrition, the implication of poor nutrition on non-nutritive factors in breast milk is inconclusive. Objective: This study was designed to find associations between ...
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Background: Breast milk is important for the overall well-being of infants. Although lactation is relatively robust in the face of poor nutrition, the implication of poor nutrition on non-nutritive factors in breast milk is inconclusive. Objective: This study was designed to find associations between nutritional and immune factors in maternal blood and breast milk with the aim to improve the needed public and individual strategies for a healthy infant. Method: A cross sectional study was conducted on 61 lactating Nigerian women aged 23-40years within the first 3 months postpartum. Anthropometric measurements were obtained while nutritional factors (total protein, albumin) and immunoglobulin classes (IgG, A and M) were estimated by Biuret, Bromocresol green and single radial immunodiffusion methods respectively in maternal plasma and breast milk. Results: Most (73.5%) of the lactating mothers had normal mean body mass index (i.e. not under weight nor obese) and the mean levels of plasma total protein, albumin, IgG, IgA and IgM were within normal reference ranges in these mothers. Nutritional and immunological indices increase in the plasma with length of lactation but decrease in breast milk with lactation. There were no correlation between BMI, plasma indices and milk indices in these lactating mothers. Conclusion: This study supports the superiority of colostrum over transitional or matured milk for the protection and nourishment of infants.
Mehrnoosh Doroudchi; Hamidreza Dehshiri; Alamtaj Samsami Dehaghani
Volume 1, Issue 3 , December 2004, , Pages 183-188
Abstract
Background: Respiratory Syncytical virus infection is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and viral pneumonia in infancy. Objective: To investigate the placental transfer of RSV-specific IgG in Iranian mothers. Methods: The antibodies were measured in sera of 146 mother/newborn pairs using a commercially ...
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Background: Respiratory Syncytical virus infection is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and viral pneumonia in infancy. Objective: To investigate the placental transfer of RSV-specific IgG in Iranian mothers. Methods: The antibodies were measured in sera of 146 mother/newborn pairs using a commercially available indirect Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). The studied subjects were among healthy pregnant women who attended to the Zeinabieh Hospital of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in a one year period. Results: A highly significant correlation was observed between RSV-specific IgG in newborns and mothers (r = 0.88). However, mean RSV-specific IgG antibodies in neonates was significantly higher than that of their mothers (P = 0.019). In addition, the mean cord/maternal ratio of RSV-specific IgG was detected to be 1.27 ± 0.60. Maternal blood group, age, parity, previous abortions and neonatal gestational age had no correlation with placental transfer of RSV-specific IgG antibodies. Conclusion: Our finding demonstrates that placental transfer of RSV-specific IgG antibodies is an active process and the main factor that influences this transfer is maternal concentration of these immunoglobulins.
Mojgan Mohammadi; Mohammad Mahdi Hayatbakhsh; Mohammad Javad Zahedi; Mohammad Reza Jalalpour; Amin Pakgohar
Volume 8, Issue 3 , September 2011, , Pages 183-188
Abstract
Background: Patients with ulcerative colitis are at increased risk of inflammation. Interleukin 23 (IL-23) is a newly identified cytokine with increased expression in inflamed biopsies of colon mucosa in patients with Crohn's disease; however, there is inconsistent evidence on its role in ulcerative ...
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Background: Patients with ulcerative colitis are at increased risk of inflammation. Interleukin 23 (IL-23) is a newly identified cytokine with increased expression in inflamed biopsies of colon mucosa in patients with Crohn's disease; however, there is inconsistent evidence on its role in ulcerative colitis. Objective: We aimed to compare serum IL-23 level in patients with ulcerative colitis and normal controls and determine if serum IL-23 level increases with the severity of disease according to endoscopic findings. Methods: We quantified serum IL-23 levels from 60 patients with ulcerative colitis and 20 control individuals. All patients underwent endoscopic procedure to define the severity of disease. Patients were then stratified into 2 groups of "Mild" and "Severe" according to the endoscopic findings. Results: For comparison of serum IL-23 levels, Platelet count, ESR and CRP between the groups, Mann-Whitney U test and independent sample t test were employed, as appropriate. Pearson’s and spearman's correlation tests were employed to test the association of IL-23 with platelet count, CRP and ESR in patients. Our findings showed that serum IL-23 levels were increased in patients with ulcerative colitis compared to normal control. Moreover, patients in "Severe" group had higher serum IL-23 levels and ESR compared with those in "Mild" group. There was no significant sexual dimorphism in any of studied variables. Conclusion: We suggest that IL-23 plays an important role in the p
Parisa Maleki; Bahareh Abd-Nikfarjam; Azam Jamshidian
Abstract
Background: Concomitant signals from IL-6 and TGF-β have a central role in the Th17 cells development and differentiation, and these cells are the main promoters of demyelinating inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS) resulting in multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives: To evaluate the simultaneous ...
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Background: Concomitant signals from IL-6 and TGF-β have a central role in the Th17 cells development and differentiation, and these cells are the main promoters of demyelinating inflammation in the central nervous system (CNS) resulting in multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives: To evaluate the simultaneous IL-6 and TGF-β gene and their receptor protein expression in patients with Relapsing-Remitting (RR)-MS. Materials and methods: IL-6 and TGF-β mRNA and their receptor expression on the surface of CD4+T cells were evaluated using real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and flow cytometry, respectively. Results: The IL-6 mRNA expression in patients with RRMS was significantly higher than in the controls (p= 0.019). When patients who did not receive any other treatment were compared with the controls, the significant difference was substantial (p=0.006). The TGF-β mRNA expression in patients was lower than in the controls (p = 0.03). However, in patients receiving IFNβ, it increased compared with the other patients (p= 0.036). There was no difference in cytokine receptor expression between patients and the control group. Conclusion: Our data conclude an increase and decrease in mRNA expression levels of IL-6 and TGF-β in patients with RRMS, respectively. Moreover, there were no significant differences in receptor expression of either cytokines. Based on our data the balance of TGF and IL-6 appears to have a positive impact on the disease control.
Gholamreza Asadikaram; Majid Asiabanha; Ahmadreza Sayadi; Abdollah Jafarzadeh; Gholamhossein Hassanshahi
Volume 7, Issue 3 , September 2010, , Pages 186-192
Abstract
Background: Several cells of immune system such as regulatory T cells and macrophages secrete transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in response to different stimuli. This cytokine has inhibitory effect on immune system and diminished production of this cytokine is associated with autoimmune ...
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Background: Several cells of immune system such as regulatory T cells and macrophages secrete transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in response to different stimuli. This cytokine has inhibitory effect on immune system and diminished production of this cytokine is associated with autoimmune disorders. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of opium addiction on serum level of TGF-β in male and female diabetic and non-diabetic Wistar rats. Methods: This experimental study was performed on normal, opium addicted, diabetic and addicted-diabetic male and female rats. Serum level of TGF-β was measured by ELISA. Results: The results of our study indicated that the mean serum level of TGF-β in female addicted rats was significantly increased compared to control group (p<0.004). Conversely, in male addicted rats the mean serum level of TGF-β was lower compared with control (p<0.065). Conclusion: Our results suggest that opium and its derivatives have differential inductive effects on the cytokine expression in male and female rats.
Soghra Khazardoust; Pouya Javadian; Bahram Salmanian; Farnaz Zandevakil; Fatemeh Abbasalizadeh; Shohreh Alimohamadi; Sedigheh Borna; Tooba Ghazanfari; Sedigheh Hantoushzadeh
Volume 9, Issue 3 , September 2012, , Pages 199-207
Abstract
Background: There are strong evidences suggesting the secretion of different cytokines in cervical fluid during preterm labor. Betamethasone is widely administered for several reasons in preterm conditions. Objective: To Investigate the possible effect of betamethasone on endocervical cytokine concentration ...
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Background: There are strong evidences suggesting the secretion of different cytokines in cervical fluid during preterm labor. Betamethasone is widely administered for several reasons in preterm conditions. Objective: To Investigate the possible effect of betamethasone on endocervical cytokine concentration of women at risk of preterm labor. Methods: In a randomized clinical trial of 80 prime-gravid women in preterm labor between 34 and 37 weeks of gestation, cervical fluid was collected. Endocervical concentration of inflammatory cytokines were analyzed before and 48 hours after betamethasone treatment for the evaluation of IL-8, IL-17, IFN-γ and TGF-β. Wilcoxon and Mann-Whitney tests were employed for statistical analysis. χ2 and Student’s t tests were used whenever needed. Results: All the measured cytokines showed significant changes in the betamethasone treated group. IL-17 (p=0.001), IL-8 (p=0.001), and IFN- γ (p<0.05) decreased significantly, while TGF-β had a significant increase (p<0.05). In the patients who delivered before or on the 7th day of admission, IL-17, IL-8, and IFN-γ levels were all significantly higher. However, TGF-β decreased significantly in the same samples in the betamethasone treated group (p<0.05). Conclusion: Betamethasone significantly decreases the endocervical pro-inflammatory cytokine concentrations in patients with preterm labor.
