Hassan Esmaeili, Samaneh Shams Nateri, Mohsen Ebrahimi,
Volume 17, Issue 6 (11-2023)
Abstract
Background: Kawasaki disease (KD) is a febrile systemic vasculitis that affects children. Further research is required due to the disease's significance, consequences, and increasing prevalence. This study aimed to determine the frequency of coronary artery complications in patients with KD referred to Taleghani Hospital (Gorgan, Iran) from 2007 to 2017.
Methods: Between 2007 and 2017, 108 cases with a definitive diagnosis of KD were studied retrospectively. Data were obtained from medical records and the patients' biographical, clinical, laboratory, radiographic, and echocardiographic data.
Results: A total of 108 patients diagnosed with KD were involved in the study, 21 (19.44%) of whom showed coronary artery-associated complications. There was no significant difference in clinical and laboratory findings and coronary artery involvement between male and female groups (P-value < 0.05). Left coronary artery (LCA) involvement and the pattern of vascular involvement as ectasia and aneurysm were significantly higher in the echocardiography of the studied patients (P-value = 0.0001).
Conclusion: Kawasaki disease-related coronary artery complication is more common in children under the age of 3, particularly males, in Gorgan. The LCA is the most common site of coronary artery complications in KD children. The findings can improve the prognosis of KD patients and their related heart diseases.
Thivyah Prabha, Rasheed Khan, Shruthi Cn, Rathi Priya,
Volume 17, Issue 6 (11-2023)
Abstract
Background: Thyroid disorders are the most common cause of endocrine dysfunction among women of childbearing age. It is well-established that hypothyroid dysfunction can have significant adverse effects on pregnancy and fetal development. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of thyroid disorders among antenatal women and assess the maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women with hypothyroid disorders.
Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the antenatal clinic of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in association with the Biochemistry Department. After obtaining written informed consent, antenatal women aged 18-40 years were included in this study, regardless of their gestational period. Venous blood samples were collected from the antecubital vein, and thyrotropin, free triiodothyronine (free T3), and free thyroxine (free T4) levels were measured. Hypothyroid antenatal women were monitored throughout their pregnancies to evaluate maternal and fetal outcomes.
Results: Among the participants in this study, 149 antenatal women had thyroid disorders, with a prevalence rate of 12.6%. Subclinical hypothyroidism, overt hypothyroidism, subclinical hyperthyroidism, and overt hyperthyroidism were observed in 6.9%, 3.2%, 1.8%, and 0.7% of cases, respectively. Maternal complications included oligohydramnios (5.8%), preeclampsia (13.3%), and preterm delivery (5%), while fetal complications included low birth weight (20.8%), hyperbilirubinemia (9.1%), and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions (13.3%).
Conclusion: A high prevalence (12.6%) of thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism (10.1%), among pregnant women, emphasizing the importance of routine thyroid testing for all antenatal individuals.
Ifrah Jan, Rafiqa Eachkoti, Iqra Farooq, Sanah Farooq, Sadaf Saleem, Sabhiya Majid ,
Volume 18, Issue 1 (1-2024)
Abstract
Background: The complete blood count (CBC) profile has been found extremely useful in monitoring the growth of SARS-CoV-2 infection; however, predictive CBC parameters that could be used in the management of the disease may vary in different populations.
Methods: This study comparatively analyzed the CBC profile of SARS-CoV-2 patients (N = 75; confirmed positive by real-time polymerase chain reaction [PCR]) and healthy individuals (confirmed negative by real-time PCR) from Kashmir (north India).
Results: Compared with healthy individuals, most of the CBC parameters (hemoglobin levels [13.43 vs 10.9 g/dL; P = 0.0001], lymphocytes [16.04% vs 30.8%; P = 0.00001], monocytes [5.53% vs 7.53%; P = 0.009], and platelet count [150 vs 186 ×103 µL; P = 0.037]) were significantly low in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients, while neutrophilia was more common in infected patients (76.77% vs 59.26%). Among derived parameters, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR; 7.31 vs 2.04; P = 0.001) and derived NLR (d-NLR; 4.43 vs 1.5; P = 0.0002) were significantly high in SARS-CoV-2 patients. Further correlation analysis revealed a significant association of neutrophilia with the severity of the disease in SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. Moreover, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis of derived CBC parameters (NLR, d-NLR, and platelet‐to-lymphocyte ratio [PLR] with disease severity and disease outcome) revealed d-NLR as better predictive marker of disease severity (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.658) and disease outcome (AUC = 0.766) compared to PLR with disease severity (AUC = 0.645) and disease outcome (AUC = 0.693).
Conclusion: We therefore conclude, of the CBC parameters neutrophilia as the marker of disease severity and among derived parameters, d-NLR as an early predictive biomarker of both disease severity and poor disease outcome in SARS-CoV-2 patients.
Fereshteh Hematyar Tabatabaie , Ali Asghar Moshtaghie, Ali Asghar Rastegari, Hashem Nayeri,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background: Certain trace elements, like cerium, have the potential to disrupt iron metabolism. This study explored the impact of cerium on intestinal iron absorption, focusing on the initial stage of iron metabolism. We employed the rat everted gut sac (EGS) segments to assess the interference caused by cerium. The primary objectives of this study were to examine the absorption of cerium in the intestines and to compare iron absorption in the presence and absence of cerium.
Methods: For the EGS experiment, segments of the rat's duodenum, ileum, or jejunum were promptly excised, cut into 5-6 cm segments, and rinsed with a physiological solution. These freshly prepared rat EGS segments were then incubated in Earle's medium containing iron (III) and/or cerium (III). We examined the impact of ascorbic acid, glucose, and different time intervals on the intestinal absorption of cerium and iron. Specifically, we investigated how glucose (5 mM) and ascorbic acid (2.8 mM) affected the absorption of cerium and iron at various concentrations (ranging from 0 to 200 mg/L). Additionally, we assessed the interfering effect of cerium on iron absorption.
Results: The results indicated that the maximum intestinal absorption of Fe (III) and Ce (III) occurred at a concentration of 200 mg/L. Furthermore, it was observed that their uptake increased following the reduction by ascorbic acid. The absorption of these elements also rose in the presence of glucose, suggesting energy-dependent transport. Additionally, a consistent cerium concentration was found to decrease iron absorption by 24.3% (P ≤ 0.05).
Conclusion: Based on the results, cerium likely reduces iron uptake by competing with iron. Cerium can also disrupt iron metabolism and lead to iron-related metabolic disorders. However, further studies at the molecular and intracellular levels are needed to gain a better understanding of this mechanism.
Chandralekshmy Chandrika, Archana Jayan, Fathima Beevi Osman,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background: Type 2 DM is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by insulin resistance, impaired insulin secretion, increased glucose production, and abnormal fat metabolism. Diabetes mortality primarily results from microvascular complications such as diabetic retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy, as well as macrovascular complications like coronary artery, peripheral vascular, and cerebrovascular diseases. Patients with diabetes usually have changes in adipose tissue metabolism and abnormalities in the secretion of adipokines such as leptin. The present study aims to study the relationship between serum leptin levels and lipid profile parameters among non-obese type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and non-diabetic individuals.
Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 41 type 2 diabetic patients and 41 non-diabetic individuals of both sexes between the ages of 40 and 70. Fasting blood glucose (FBS), serum leptin, total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels were assayed.
Results: The mean serum leptin levels among diabetic patients were lower than those of non-diabetic individuals, and this difference in mean was statistically significant. The study showed a significant negative correlation between serum leptin, TC, TG, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and a positive correlation with HDL. In the final regression model, serum leptin showed a statistically significant association with FBS and HDL.
Conclusion: This study demonstrated that serum leptin levels can be a strong predictor of low HDL levels in diabetic patients. It can also contribute to raised levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDL, which are responsible for macrovascular complications in diabetics.
Jincy W,
Volume 18, Issue 2 (3-2024)
Abstract
Background: Musculoskeletal disorders are common in patients with hypothyroidism, and are also observed in thyrotoxicosis. Creatine kinase (CK) is present in the muscles and is involved in energy metabolism. This study aimed to estimate the serum CK levels in patients with hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and healthy individuals. Moreover, the correlation of CK levels with markers of thyroid function is assessed.
Methods: A total of 120 patients with hypothyroid and 120 with hyperthyroid were compared with 120 healthy individuals aged 20-60 years. The thyroid status was assessed by determining the serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (fT4) using chemiluminescent immunoassay. Serum CK was measured the by kinetic method. Statistical analysis was performed by analysis of variance and Pearson’s correlation to investigate the correlations between CK and thyroid hormones.
Results: A significant increase (P<0.0001) and a significant decrease (P<0.0001) in serum CK were observed in hypothyroid patients (253.98±129.04 IU/L) and in hyperthyroid patients (34.68±13.15 IU/L), respectively, compared to the control group (72.9±29.01 IU/L). A negative correlation was found between fT4 and CK (r: -0.4253, P<0.0005).
Conclusion: It could be concluded that CK activity in serum may be a useful additional test in thyroid disorders.
Piyushkumar Mansinh Pargi , Manish Barvaliya , Bhargav Purohit,
Volume 18, Issue 4 (7-2024)
Abstract
Background: Although the anti-diabetic effects of various Ficus species have been investigated in animal models, research on the blood glucose-lowering potentials of Ficus lacor Buch Ham bark remains sparse. This study evaluated the blood glucose-lowering potentials of an aqueous extract derived from Ficus labor bark in a diabetic rabbit model.
Methods: Diabetes was induced in rabbits through intravenous administration of alloxan monohydrate (120 mg/kg). 36 rabbits were divided into six groups, each consisting of six animals. Control groups included a non-diabetic control (Distilled water) and a diabetic control (Distilled water). Two experimental groups received Ficus lacor extract at doses of 100 mg/kg (Low-dose) and 200 mg/kg (High-dose) orally for six weeks. Metformin was used as an active control. A non-diabetic group (Extract control) was also administered Ficus lacor extract at 200 mg/kg. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and post-prandial blood sugar (PP2BS) levels were measured weekly over the 6 weeks. The percentage reduction in blood glucose levels was calculated and compared for each group.
Results: The administration of both low-dose and high-dose Ficus lacor extracts resulted in significant reductions in FBS and PP2BS levels in diabetic rabbits. After six weeks, the low-dose extract group exhibited an average reduction of 38.3% in FBS and 40.5% in PP2BS, whereas the high-dose extract group showed average reductions of 35.3% in FBS and 36.3% in PP2BS.
Conclusion: The aqueous extract of Ficus lacor bark demonstrates substantial glucose-lowering activity, indicating its potential utility as a therapeutic agent in diabetes management.
Usunobun Usunomena, Ambrose Emuobonuvie Akpovona ,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background: Telfairia occidentalis is among the most popular vegetable crops propagated in the West African rainforest zone for its green leafy vegetable and ellipsoidal fruit, which are highly nutritious. This study investigated the liver's synthetic ability and hematological profile potential of T. occidentalis against carbon tetrachloride-induced toxicity in Wistar rats.
Methods: Five experimental groups of rats were used in this study. One group received distilled water and served as the normal control. The second group received carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) alone for four days. The third and fourth groups received CCl4 for four days prior to treatment with 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg T. occidentalis aqueous extract for six days, respectively. The last group received CCl4 for four days prior to treatment with silymarin (100 mg/kg) for six days. With the exception of normal control rats, all rats received a mixture of freshly prepared CCl4 in olive oil (1 ml/kg, 1:1 intraperitoneally) for four days. The activities of liver synthetic molecules, such as total protein, albumin, and total bilirubin, as well as hematological parameters, were measured in the blood.
Results: CCl4 exposure and toxicity caused a significant (P < 0.05) increase in total bilirubin and white blood cells and a significant decrease in total protein, albumin, hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, and platelets. However, treatment with T. occidentalis aqueous extract significantly (P < 0.05) ameliorated the levels of these markers toward normal values.
Conclusion: T. occidentalis aqueous extract exhibited enhancement of liver synthetic ability and hematological profile in CCl4-induced toxicity.
Habibeh Sadat Mosavi , Mohammad Taher Hojjati , Khodaberdi Kalavi,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia, disturbed lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Poor glycemic control results in lipid and lipoprotein abnormalities, suggesting that dyslipidemia is secondary to insulin resistance or factors closely related to insulin resistance. Glaciated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is a routinely used marker for long-term glycemic control. This form of hemoglobin is chemically processed through post-translational glycosylation that reflects the plasma glucose concentration during the last two to three months.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on blood samples from 592 cases referred to Dezyani Specialty Clinic, affiliated with the Golestan University of Medical Sciences. In patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) and non-diabetic individuals, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), total cholesterol (T-chol), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) were measured.
Results: In the study, there were 460 female participants (76.9%) and 132 male participants (23.1%). Among them, 403 (67.4%) were diabetic patients, and 193 (32.4%) were non-diabetic. HbA1c levels were significantly lower in younger individuals than in middle-aged participants (p=0.000). No significant difference was found between middle-aged and older individuals (p>0.121). LDL levels were significantly lower in the young group than in the middle-aged group (p<0.001). Total cholesterol (TC) was also significantly lower in the young group compared to middle-aged and older groups (p<0.001).
Conclusion: HbA1c can be a helpful lipid and glycemic control marker in diabetes.
Noori Noha Alsharifi , Mahin Gholipur , Somayeh Ghorbani , Fatemeh Mohammadzadeh , Safoura Khajeniazi ,
Volume 18, Issue 5 (9-2024)
Abstract
Background: Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) is a 17 kDa, an important soluble pro-inflammatory cytokine, which is involved in some tissue dysfunctions, including thyroid and liver tissue. In spite of its role in thyroid and tissue damage separately, the relationship between this factor and these two disorders has not been clarified. The aim of the present study was to evaluate liver biochemical parameters and TNFα in hypothyroid patients compared to euthyroid subjects.
Methods: To achieve this purpose, samples were transferred into tubes without anticoagulants and then centrifuged immediately to separate the serum. All markers in the serum were measured using commercial kits, including T3, T4, TSH, and TNFα, which were detected using the ELISA method. Liver function tests, including albumin, total bilirubin, and total protein were measured by spectroscopy and the colorimetric method, respectively. In addition, AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT were detected using enzymatic methods.
Results: Our results showed that the level of TNFα in hypothyroid patients was significantly higher than that in normal individuals (P = 0.009). TNFα had a significantly positive correlation with TSH and T3 but a negative correlation with T4. Furthermore, AST, ALT, and GGT had a positive correlation with TSH and a negative correlation with albumin, total protein, and total bilirubin. These correlations were insignificant (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: According to our data, the positive correlation of TSH with both TNFα and liver function tests may indicate a relationship between thyroid and liver function with each other.
Mahendran Kanumuru, Sridevi Nutakki ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a non-communicable disease, manifesting hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and low-grade chronic inflammation associated with various micro and macrovascular complications. The present study aimed to estimate vitamin D (Vit D) levels, total antioxidant capacity, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in T2DM patients compared with healthy individuals. In addition, we assessed Vit D, total antioxidant capacity, and MDA levels in patients with T2DM and their association with HbA1c, insulin resistance and lipid profile parameters.
Methods: Seventy patients with T2DM aged 35 to 50 years were selected and 70 healthy age-matched subjects were selected as controls. Serum Vit D and insulin were estimated by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C) was assessed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method and other routine lipid profile investigations were carried out using a Beckman Coulter fully automated analyzer.
Results: Vitamin D levels significantly decreased in T2DM patients. HbA1C and insulin resistance values are significantly increased in type 2 diabetic patients. Vitamin D levels negatively correlated with MDA, insulin resistance, and HbA1c, while positively correlated with total antioxidant capacity. Nevertheless, there is no significant correlation between lipid profile parameters.
Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency may be one of the vital risk factors responsible for increased oxidative stress in patients with T2DM. Regular monitoring and supplementation of Vit D are beneficial for the reduction of oxidative stress and vascular complications in these patients.
Sharabeh Hezarkhani , Khosro Ghojoghi , Sara Hosseinzadeh , Naser Behnampour , Farshid Fathabadi , Zahra Hesari , Hamid Reza Joshaghani ,
Volume 18, Issue 6 (11-2024)
Abstract
Background: Leptin and adiponectin, two members of the adipokine family, play roles in increasing lipid metabolism and inhibiting lipogenesis. Reduced levels of these cytokines are associated with obesity and insulin resistance. This study aimed to determine the serum levels of leptin and adiponectin in type-2 diabetic patients with and without metabolic syndrome compared to a control group.
Methods: Three groups of individuals participated in this study: 47 type-2 diabetic patients with metabolic syndrome (DM+MetS), 25 type-2 diabetic patients without metabolic syndrome (DM-MetS), and 40 individuals with no history of diabetes or metabolic syndrome (Control group). Fasting blood samples were collected, and serum levels of fasting blood sugar, cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol, and LDL-cholesterol were measured using the enzymatic method. Blood pressure, height, and weight were recorded using stadiometers, while leptin and adiponectin levels were determined via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.
Results: A significant difference was observed between the DM+MetS group and the DM-MetS group in serum leptin (p = 0.004) and adiponectin (p < 0.001) levels. In patients with type-2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, serum leptin (p = 0.530) and adiponectin (p < 0.001) levels were lower compared to the control group.
Conclusion: A decrease in the serum levels of key adipokines, such as leptin and adiponectin, in type-2 diabetic patients may serve as a predictor of metabolic syndrome.
Supriya Gulajkar , Rajni Shivkar , Sanjyoti Panchbudhe , Charushila Kadam,
Volume 19, Issue 1 (1-2025)
Abstract
Background: Quality control (QC) is a crucial tool in the clinical laboratory for error identification and correction. While the Internal Quality Control (IQC) ensures daily precision and accuracy, the External Quality Assurance Scheme (EQAS) ensures long-term accuracy by providing external verification. The objective of this study was to evaluate our laboratory’s performance in the EQAS program services and assess the impact of corrective actions implemented, where necessary, to enhance EQAS performance.
Methods: This retrospective observational study was undertaken in a tertiary care hospital. The biochemistry department of the laboratory participated in the monthly clinical chemistry EQA program administered by CMC Vellore EQAS. Nineteen parameters were assessed using a structured approach to analyze deviating EQAS results. Monthly performance was analyzed in terms of the Standard Deviation Index (SDI) and variance index score (VIS) from October 2019 to September 2021.
Results: Among the nineteen parameters assessed in the EQAS program, most showed ‘excellent’ performance between October 2019 and September 2021 based on mean SDI. Some improvement was observed in the SDI values between the two cycles after implementing a structured approach to root cause analysis, indicating an enhanced level of performance in the EQAS program. The VIS analysis revealed that 89.47% of parameters in the October 2019 to September 2020 period and 94.73% in the October 2020 to September 2021 period achieved scores classified as ‘very good’ performance.
Conclusion: Adopting a structured approach to analyze deviating EQAS results enables the evaluation of laboratory performance and offers opportunities for improvement. Consequently, EQAS plays a significant role as a cornerstone in the accreditation process.
Mazhar Khan , Akash Sarkate , Poonam Wade , Sushma Mailk ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: Hyperbilirubinemia is the most common clinical abnormality in newborns during the first week of life. Phototherapy is the standard treatment but may cause complications, including hypocalcemia, a lesser-known yet significant adverse effect. This study investigated the impact of phototherapy on serum calcium levels in neonates with hyperbilirubinemia.
Methods: This observational study was conducted in the NICU of BYL and T.N. Medical College, Mumbai, over 12 months after ethical approval. We included 100 neonates (> 34 weeks gestational age) with hyperbilirubinemia receiving phototherapy. Serum calcium levels were measured before and after phototherapy, and neonates were monitored for clinical hypocalcemia. Data were recorded in a pre-formatted proforma and analyzed using SPSS version 27 (p <0.05 was considered statistically significant).
Results: The mean age of neonates was 3±1.2 days, the mean gestational age was 37±1.2 weeks, and the mean jaundice duration was 2.8±1.10 days. Median serum calcium levels decreased significantly from 8.6 mg/dL (8.49-8.61) pre-phototherapy to 7.35 mg/dL (7.33-7.50) post-phototherapy (p <0.001). Hypocalcemia (serum calcium ≤7 mg/dL) occurred in 16% of neonates, with 60% exhibiting mild symptoms like jitteriness or irritability.
Conclusion: Phototherapy significantly reduces serum calcium levels in jaundiced neonates, with a notable incidence of hypocalcemia. Clinicians should monitor calcium levels and watch for symptoms during phototherapy to prevent complications. Further studies are needed to establish preventive strategies.
Parisa Hasanein , Fahime Javadi Hedaiat Abad, Mousa Bohlooli , Mostafa Khajeh , Sedigheh Esmaielzadeh Bahabadi , Neda Poormolaei ,
Volume 19, Issue 2 (3-2025)
Abstract
Background: DNA glycation, a process where Glc non-enzymatically binds to DNA, is implicated in various detrimental effects, including strand breaks, mutations, and altered gene expression. This damage is considered a significant contributor to the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and its associated complications. Consequently, there has been increasing interest in identifying antiglycation agents as a strategy for preventing and mitigating these complications. Prior research has indicated that extracts from Tamarix aphylla (T. aphylla) leaves possess antidiabetic properties. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate, for the first time, the impact of T. aphylla extract on Glc-mediated DNA glycation.
Methods: DNA samples were incubated with Glc over a four-week period. Subsequently, the modulatory effects of T. aphylla on Glc-induced DNA structural alterations were investigated employing a range of analytical techniques. These methodologies encompassed ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy, and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Results: The results obtained from UV–Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy demonstrated that T. aphylla extract led to a reduction in the formation of DNA-advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Furthermore, CD spectroscopy and agarose gel electrophoresis analyses indicated that the structural alterations of glycated DNA were diminished in the presence of T. aphylla extract.
Conclusion: Based on the evidence presented, T. aphylla demonstrates protective properties against DNA glycation. Consequently, pending further rigorous investigation, it may represent a potentially valuable therapeutic agent for mitigating the detrimental consequences of glycation, particularly in environments characterized by elevated Glc concentrations and hyperglycemic states.
Mahsa Mahdizadeh, Zeinab Mohammadi, Seyyed Mehdi Jafari,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (5-2025)
Abstract
Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most widespread gastrointestinal tumors worldwide, with mortality rates among the highest. Globally, we face more than one million newly diagnosed stomach cancer patients every year. Various factors are closely associated with the formation of GC. One of these factors is the change in the level of components of the extracellular matrix in the microenvironment of the stomach tumor. Fibulins are one of the secreted glycoproteins of the extracellular matrix, known as matrix organizers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the changes in fibulins in gastric tumor tissue compared to control samples.
Methods: In this systematic review, a search was conducted on June 21, 2024, in alignment with the guidelines set forth by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases were searched for articles that examined FBLN gene family and protein expression in patients with GC and GC cell lines.
Results: A total of 853 GC tumor samples, ranging from 8 to 197 per study, were analyzed across eight studies published between 2008 and 2023, all conducted in China. Several GC cell lines were also included, such as AGS, Kato III, MKN28, MKN45, SNU1, SNU16, NCI-N87, MGC-803, BGC-823, SGC-7901, and HGC27. Tumor size was reported in four studies, while histopathological grade and lymph node metastasis were each evaluated in four studies.
Conclusion: The downregulation of Fibulin-1 and Fibulin-2 supports their potential tumor-suppressive roles in GC, while the upregulation of Fibulin-5 is associated with tumor progression and worse prognosis, making it a candidate biomarker for aggressive disease.
Yanglem Ajitkumar Singh, Kshetrimayum Roshita Devi , Sangeeta Naorem , Victoria Kshetrimayum, Sunie Laishram , Niketa Ashem ,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background: Preeclampsia, a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, affects 10% of pregnancies, causing maternal and fetal complications. It is associated with complications such as elevated serum lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels. LDH is an intracellular enzyme that increases in response to cellular death. Since preeclampsia leads to cellular death, serum LDH levels may reflect the severity of preeclampsia and serve as a guide in patient management. This study aims to estimate serum LDH levels in women with preeclampsia and those without, and compare the levels between the two groups.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Biochemistry, in collaboration with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at RIMS, Imphal, from February 2021 to September 2022. The study included 100 participants, 50 diagnosed with preeclampsia and 50 non-preeclamptic women attending RIMS hospital. Blood samples were collected from the patient, and serum LDH levels were estimated using a spectrophotometric method. All the data were analyzed using SPSS V21.0.
Results: The study revealed that serum LDH levels were significantly higher (P-value < 0.05) in women with preeclampsia (510.10 ± 184.26 IU) compared to pregnant women without preeclampsia (284.38 ± 97.35 IU). Serum LDH levels were positively correlated with an increase in blood pressure.
Conclusion: This study showed that serum LDH levels were higher in patients with preeclampsia compared to non-preeclamptic women, and LDH levels were positively correlated with higher blood pressure. Measuring serum LDH levels can help diagnose preeclampsia, allowing for better monitoring and timely management of affected women.
Leila Pirdel, Maryam Safajoo, Masoud Maleki,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are well-known for their immune-modulatory properties. A subgroup of the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD)-like receptors (NLRs) has been recently identified to play a regulatory role in immune and inflammatory responses. This study aims to analyze and compare the gene expression levels of the NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing proteins (NLRPs), such as NLRP6 and NLRP12, in Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) treated with interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), the pro-inflammatory cytokine, and untreated cells.
Methods: The immunophenotypic characterization of the isolated Wharton’s Jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) was conducted using flow cytometry. Next, they were cultured with or without IFN-γ, followed by a comparison of the expression levels of the NLRP6 and NLRP12 genes using quantitative PCR (qPCR).
Results: Treatment of cells with IFN-γ resulted in a statistically significant increase in NLRP12 gene expression compared to untreated cells. In contrast, the expression of NLRP6 did not differ significantly between cells with or without IFN-γ treatment.
Conclusion: The altered expression level of NLRP12 suggests its potential role in the inflammatory regulation mediated by WJ-MSCs in response to IFN exposure; however, further studies are needed to validate its role in experimental models of inflammatory-related diseases.
Maryam Lotfi , Nasser Behpoor , Mehrali Rahimi , Afshar Jafari ,
Volume 19, Issue 5 (9-2025)
Abstract
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a serious chronic disease associated with hyperglycemia, overweight, and metabolic syndrome. The prevalence of this disease is constantly increasing. This study aimed to investigate the separate and combined effects of resistance training and cucumber juice consumption on liver indicators in women with T2DM.
Methods: Females aged 35-70 years (N = 40) suffering from T2DM were selected. The subjects were randomly assigned to four groups (three experimental groups and one control group). The Training+ placebo group implemented resistance training and consumed a placebo. The Training+ Supplement group implemented resistance training and consumed cucumber juice, the Supplement group consumed cucumber juice, while the control group consumed a placebo for eight weeks. 48 hours before and after the research, blood sampling was done, and changes in liver enzyme levels were investigated and compared among the groups. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s post-hoc test at a significance level of p ≤ 0.05.
Results: The results of the present study showed that eight weeks of separate or combined resistance training and consumption of cucumber juice led to a significant reduction in the levels of liver enzymes Alanine transaminase (ALT), Aspartate transaminase (AST), and Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) (p ≤ 0.05).
Conclusion: In the present study, liver enzyme levels decreased. Therefore, separate or combined implementation of resistance training and consumption of cucumber juice can be used as therapeutic aids to control the levels of liver enzymes in women with T2DM.
Parisa Hasanein , Mehrnush Sotudeh , Mousa Bohlooli , Mohammad Haddadi,
Volume 19, Issue 6 (11-2025)
Abstract
Background: DNA glycation damages DNA by inducing strand breaks, mutations, and ultimately changes in gene expression, which is considered a main factor in the pathogenesis of diabetes and its complications. Therefore, antiglycation agents have become the focus of recent research for preventing and alleviating diabetes complications. According to the reported antidiabetic effects of Artemisia sieberi (A. sieberi) leaf extract, this study aimed to determine the effect of the ethanolic extract of A. sieberi on glucose-mediated DNA glycation for the first time.
Methods: DNA was incubated with glucose in the presence or absence of A. sieberi for 4 weeks. The inhibitory or facilitatory effects of A. sieberi on DNA structural changes were studied by various techniques. These techniques included UV–Vis, fluorescence spectroscopy, circular dichroism (CD), and agarose gel electrophoresis.
Results: The findings of UV–Vis and fluorescence spectroscopy showed that A. sieberi decreased DNA-AGE (Advanced glycation end products) formation. Based on the CD and agarose gel electrophoresis results, the structural changes of glycated DNA were decreased in the presence of A. sieberi.
Conclusion: Thus, A. sieberi has beneficial effects against DNA glycation and could be a promising agent for ameliorating the adverse effects of glycation in the presence of glucose and in conditions of raised blood glucose, such as diabetes, after confirmation in further studies.
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