Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Pigment epithelium-derived factor: clinical significance in estrogen-dependent tissues and its potential in cancer therapy837855520410.22038/ijbms.2015.5204ENMaría Liliana Franco-ChuaireDepartamento de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Hospital Mayor Mederi, Bogotá DC, ColombiaSandra Ramírez-ClavijoFacultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá DC, ColombiaLilian Chuaire-NoackFacultad de Ciencias Naturales y Matemáticas, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá DC, ColombiaJournal Article20151005Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is a glycoprotein that belongs to the family of non-inhibitory serpins. The broad spectrum of PEDF biological activity is evident when considering its effects in promoting cell survival and proliferation, as well as its antiangiogenic, antitumor, and anti-metastatic properties. Although the structural domains of the PEDF gene that mediate such diverse effects and their mechanisms of action have not been completely elucidated, there is a large body of evidence describing their diverse range of activities; this evidence combined with the regulation of PEDF expression by sex steroids and their receptors have led to the idea that PEDF is not only a diagnostic and prognostic marker for certain diseases such as cancer, but is also a potential therapeutic target. In this manner, this paper aims to generally review the regulation of PEDF expression and PEDF interactions, as well as the findings that relate PEDF to the role of estrogens and estrogen receptors. In addition, this manuscript will review major advances toward potential therapeutic applications of PEDF.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Down-regulation of miR-135b in colon adenocarcinoma induced by a TGF-β receptor I kinase inhibitor (SD-208)856861520610.22038/ijbms.2015.5206ENAbolfazl AkbariColorectal Research Center, Rasoul-Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMohammad Hossein GhahremaniDepartment of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranGholam Reza MobiniCellular and Molecular Research Center, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran0000-0003-4859-8294Mahdi AbastabarInvasive Fungi Research Center, Department of Medical Mycology and Parasitology, School of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, IranJavad AkhtariImmunogenetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, IranManzar BolhassaniDepartment of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranMansour HeidariDepartment of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranExperimental Medicine Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-6214-4638Journal Article20151005 <br/>Objective(s):Transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β) is involved in colorectal cancer (CRC). The SD-208 acts as an anti-cancer agent in different malignancies via TGF-β signaling. This work aims to show the effect of manipulation of TGF-β signaling on some miRNAs implicated in CRC. <br/>Materials and Methods: We investigated the effects of SD-208 on SW-48, a colon adenocarcinoma cell line. The cell line was treated with 0.5, 1 and 2 μM concentrations of SD-208. Then, the xenograft model of colon cancer was established by subcutaneous inoculation of SW-48 cell line into the nude mice. The animals were treated with SD-208 for three weeks. A quantitative real-time PCR was carried out for expression level analysis of selected oncogenic (miR-21, 31, 20a and 135b) and suppressor-miRNAs (let7-g, miR-133b, 145 and 200c). Data were analyzed using the 2-∆∆CT method through student’s t-test via the GraphPad Prism software. <br/>Results: Our results revealed that SD-208 could significantly down-regulate the expression of one key onco-miRNA, miR-135b, in either SW-48 colon cells (P=0.006) or tumors orthotopically implanted in nude mice (P=0.018). Our in silico study also predicted that SD-208 could modulate the expression of potential downstream tumor suppressor targets of the miR135b. <br/>Conclusion: Our data provide novel evidence that anticancer effects of SD-208 (and likely other TGF-β inhibitors) may be owing to their ability to regulate miRNAs expression.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Lack of FLT3-TKD835 gene mutation in toxicity of sulfur mustard in Iranian veterans862866520510.22038/ijbms.2015.5205ENHossein AyatollahiCancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Ghaem Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMohammad RafieeFaculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMohammad-Reza KeramatiCancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Ghaem Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0003-4160-4161Mahdi Balali-MoodMedical Toxicology Research Center, Imam Reza Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAli AsgharzadehFaculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMohammad Hadi SadeghianCancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Ghaem Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranMaryam SheikhiCancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Ghaem Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranNafiseh AminiCancer Molecular Pathology Research Center, Ghaem Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAzam Moradi ZarmehriFaculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s</em><em>):</em>Sulfur mustard (SM) was used by the Iraqi army against the Iranian troops in the Iran-Iraq war from 1983–1988. This chemical gas affects different organs including the skin, lungs and the hematopoietic system. Any exposure to SM increases the risk of chromosomal breaking, hyperdiploidy and hypodiploidy. Studies have shown that the risk for acute myeloblastic and lymphoblastic leukemia increases in veterans exposed to SM. FLT3 mutations including ITD and TKD mutations had been observed in some cases of leukemia. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the frequency of FLT3-TKD835 mutations in the veterans exposed to SM agent. <br/><em>Materials and Methods:</em> We studied 42 patients who were exposed to SM during the war in Khorasan Razavi province, Mashhad, Iran in 2012. As control group, 30 healthy males were selected from first-degree relatives of the patients. For assessment of TKD835 mutation, DNA was extracted and RFLP-PCR was performed. <br/><em>Results:</em> Analysis of RFLP-PCR data showed no FLT-3 TKD mutation in any of the patients. <br/><em>Conclusion:</em> Although contact with SM can increase the risk of malignancy especially hematologic neoplasms, results of the study show that another mechanism of leukemogenesis, other than FLT3-TKD mutation, may be the reason for increased risk of leukemia in SM toxicity.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Melatonin treatment reduces astrogliosis and apoptosis in rats with traumatic brain injury867872520710.22038/ijbms.2015.5207ENAbdolreza BabaeeDepartment of Anatomical Sciences, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, IranSeyed Hassan Eftekhar-VaghefiDepartment of Anatomical Sciences, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, IranMajid Asadi-shekaariNeuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, IranNader ShahrokhiDepartment of Physiology, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, IranSamereh Dehghani SoltaniDepartment of Anatomical Sciences, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, IranReza Malekpour-AfsharDepartment of Pathology, Afzalipour School of Medicine, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, IranMohsen BasiriNeuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s):</em>Melatonin is known as an anti-inflammatory agent, and it has been proven to exert neuroprotection through inhibition of cell death (apoptosis) in several models of brain injury.Secondary injury following the primary traumatic brain injury (TBI) results in glial cells activation, especially astrocytes. In fact, astrocyte activation causes the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that may lead to secondary injury. Since most TBI research studies have focused on injured neurons and paid little attention to glial cells, the aim of current study was to investigate the effects of melatonin against astrocytes activation (astrogliosis), as well as inhibition of apoptosis in brain tissue of male rats after TBI. <br/><em>Materials and Methods: </em>The animals were randomly allocated into five groups: sham group, TBI+ vehicle group (1% ethanol in saline) and TBI+ melatonin groups (5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg). All rats were intubated and then exposed to diffuse TBI, except for the sham group. Immunohistochemical methods were conducted using glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) marker and TUNEL assay to evaluate astrocyte reactivity and cell death, respectively. <br/><em>Results:</em> The results showed that based on the number of GFAP positive astrocytes in brain cortex, astrogliosis was reduced significantly (<em>P</em><0.05) in melatonin- treated groups (no dose dependent) compared to the vehicle group. Furthermore, based on TUNEL results, melatonin treatment considerably reduced the number of apoptotic cells (<em>P</em><0.05). <br/><em>Conclusion:</em>In total, the present findings suggest that melatonin treatment following TBI diminishes astrocyte reactivity and neuronal cells apoptosis in brain cortex in the rat model.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Application of novel anodized titanium for enhanced recruitment of H9C2 cardiac myoblast873877520810.22038/ijbms.2015.5208ENMohaddeseh BehjatiCardiovascular Research Center, Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IranHeart failure Research Center, Isfahan Cardiovascular Research Institute, Isfahan, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IranIman MoradiNanotechnology Consultancy and Development Center (NCDC), Padova, ItalyMohammad KazemiDepartment of Genetics, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s):</em>Anodized treated titanium surfaces, have been proposed as potential surfaces with better cell attachment capacities. We have investigated the adhesion and proliferation properties of H9C2 cardiac myoblasts on anodized treated titanium surface.
<em>Materials and Methods:</em> Surface topography and anodized tubules were examined by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Control and test substrates were inserted to the bottom of 24-well tissue culture plates. Culture media including H9C2 cells were loaded on the surface of substrate and control wells at the second passage. Evaluation of cell growth, proliferation, viability and surface cytotoxicity was performed using MTT test. After 48 hr, some samples were inspected by SEM. DAPI-staining was used to count attached cells.
<em>Results: </em>MTT results for cells cultured on anodized titanium and unanodized titanium surfaces was equal to 1.56 and 0.55 fold change compared to tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS). The surface had no cytotoxic effects on cells. The average cell attachment to TCPS, unanodized and anodized titanium surface was 2497±40.16, 1250±20.11 and 4859.5±54.173, respectively. Cell adhesion to anodized titanium was showed 1.95 and 3.89 fold increase compared to TCPS and unanodized titanium, respectively (<em>P</em><0.05).
<em>Conclusion:</em> Anodized titanium surfaces can be potentially applied for enhanced recruitment of H9C2 cells. This unique property makes these inexpensive anodized surfaces as a candidate surface for attachment of cardiac cells and consequently for cardiac regeneration purposes.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Correlational studies on insulin resistance and leptin gene polymorphisms in peritoneal dialysis patients878886521010.22038/ijbms.2015.5210ENLiou CaoDepartment of Nephrology, Molecular Cell Laboratory for Kidney Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Center for Peritoneal Dialysis Research, Shanghai, ChinaShan MouDepartment of Nephrology, Molecular Cell Laboratory for Kidney Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Center for Peritoneal Dialysis Research, Shanghai, ChinaWei FangDepartment of Nephrology, Molecular Cell Laboratory for Kidney Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Center for Peritoneal Dialysis Research, Shanghai, ChinaChaojun QiDepartment of Nephrology, Molecular Cell Laboratory for Kidney Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Center for Peritoneal Dialysis Research, Shanghai, ChinaXinbei ChangDepartment of Nephrology, Molecular Cell Laboratory for Kidney Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Center for Peritoneal Dialysis Research, Shanghai, ChinaLeyi GuDepartment of Nephrology, Molecular Cell Laboratory for Kidney Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Center for Peritoneal Dialysis Research, Shanghai, ChinaJiaqi QianDepartment of Nephrology, Molecular Cell Laboratory for Kidney Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Center for Peritoneal Dialysis Research, Shanghai, ChinaZhaohui NiDepartment of Nephrology, Molecular Cell Laboratory for Kidney Disease, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai Center for Peritoneal Dialysis Research, Shanghai, ChinaJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s):</em>The aim of the study was to investigate the relationship between insulin resistance (IR) and leptin (LEP) gene polymorphisms in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. <br/><em>Materials and Methods:</em> From July 1, 2011 to August 1, 2011, patients who received chronic PD were chosen and divided into three groups (DM, high HOMR-IR, and low HOMR-IR). Two PCR products of LEP were sequenced and aligned and the distribution of polymorphisms was analyzed using χ2 analysis. In addition, serum leptin level, PD conditions, and biochemical parameters according to different genotype of G-2548A and A19G were statistically analyzed (<em>P</em>-value<0.05). The relationship between LEP gene polymorphisms and prognosis was explored. <br/><em>Results</em><em>:</em> Totally 157 patients with average age of 55±15 years old were chosen. Distribution of genotype frequencies was complied with Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Leptin level and BMI (body mass index) of the GG genotype of G-2548A were higher than that of GA or AA. The fasting glucose, cholesterol, etc. of AA genotype were lower, and the nPCR was higher than the two other genotypes. Serum leptin level and BMI of AA genotype of A19G was higher than GA and GG genotypes; meanwhile, fasting blood glucose of that genotypes was the highest. In addition, survival rate of AA group of A19G was very low. <br/><em>Conclusion:</em>The G-2548A and A19G polymorphisms were correlated with serum leptin level and IR. Leptin A19G polymorphism may be prognostic for PD patients. This study may facilitate early intervention for IR in PD patients.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Presentation of a novel model of chitosan- polyethylene oxide-nanohydroxyapatite nanofibers together with bone marrow stromal cells to repair and improve minor bone defects887893521110.22038/ijbms.2015.5211ENAsgar EmamgholiNeuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Science, Tehran, IranMicrobial Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Payame Noor University, Unit of Tehran Center, Tehran, IranMohsen RahimiDepartment of Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-2537-651xGholamreza KakaNeuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Science, Tehran, IranSeyed Homayoon SadraieDepartment of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Science, Tehran, IranSaleh NajafiMicrobial Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, Payame Noor University, Unit of Tehran Center, Tehran, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s):</em>Various methods for repairing bone defects are presented. Cell therapy is one of these methods. Bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) seem to be suitable for this purpose. On the other hand, lots of biomaterials are used to improve and repair the defect in the body, so in this study we tried to produce a similar structure to the bone by the chitosan and hydroxyapatite. <br/><em>Materials and Methods:</em> In this study, the solution of chitosan-nanohydroxyapatite-polyethylene oxide (PEO) Nanofibers was produced by electrospinning method, and then the BMSCs were cultured on this solution. A piece of chitosan-nanohydroxyapatite Nanofibers with BMSCs was placed in a hole with the diameter of 1 mm at the distal epiphysis of the rat femur. Then the biomechanical and radiographic studies were performed. <br/><em>Results:</em> Biomechanical testing results showed that bone strength was significantly higher in the Nanofiber/BMSCs group in comparison with control group. Also the bone strength in nanofiber/BMSCs group was significant, but in nanofiber group was nearly significant. Radiographic studies also showed that the average amount of callus formation (radio opacity) in nanofiber and control group was not significantly different. The callus formation in nanofiber/BMSCs group was increased compared to the control group, and it was not significant in the nanofiber group. <br/><em>Conclusion:</em> Since chitosan-nanohydroxyapatite nanofibers with BMSCs increases the rate of bone repair, the obtained cell-nanoscaffold shell can be used in tissue engineering and cell therapy, especially for bone defects.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901The effect of 17β-estradiol on gene expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide and some pro-inflammatory mediators in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with pure menstrual migraine894901521210.22038/ijbms.2015.5212ENAzam KarkhanehDepartment of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranReference Laboratory, Iranian Social Security Organization, Tehran, IranMohammad AnsariDepartment of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranSolaleh EmamgholipourDepartment of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran0000-0002-9949-5773Mohammad Hessam RafieeHigh Institute for Research and Education in Transfusion Medicine, Tehran, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective</em><em>(s):</em>The neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) has long been postulated to play an integral role in the pathophysiology of migraine. Earlier studies showed that CGRP can stimulate the synthesis and release of nitric oxide (NO) and cytokines from trigeminal ganglion glial cells. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of 17β-estradiol in regulation of CGRP expression, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activity, and NO and interleukin-1beta (IL-1β) release in cultured peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with pure menstrual migraine and healthy individuals.
<em>Materials and Methods:</em> This study was performed on twelve patients with pure menstrual migraine and twelve age-and sex-matched healthy individuals. PBMCs treated with 17β-estradiol for 24 hr at physiological and pharmacological doses. Gene expression was evaluated by real time-PCR. CGRP and IL-1β proteins in culture supernatant were determined by ELISA method. Activity of iNOS in PBMCs and total nitrite in the culture supernatant were measured by colorimetric assays.
<em>Results:</em>Treatment with 17β-estradiol had a biphasic effect on expression of CGRP. We found that 17β-estradiol treatment at pharmacological dose significantly increases mRNA expression of CGRP in both groups (<em>P</em><0.001), whereas at physiological dose it could significantly decrease CGRP mRNA expression (<em>P</em><0.001), CGRP protein levels, IL-1β release, NO production and iNOS activity only in patient groups (<em>P</em><0.05).
<em>Conclusion:</em>Collectively, it appears that 17β-estradiol can exert protective effect on decrease of inflammation in migraine via decrease in levels of CGRP, IL-1β and iNOS activity; however, more studies are necessary in this regard.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Crocin reduced acrylamide-induced neurotoxicity in Wistar rat through inhibition of oxidative stress902908521310.22038/ijbms.2015.5213ENSoghra MehriPharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranKhalil AbnousPharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Department of Biotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAlireza KhooeiDepartment of Pathology, Imam Reza Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranSeyed Hadi MousaviPharmacological Research Centre of Medicinal Plants; School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranVahideh Motamed ShariatyPharmacological Research Centre, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranHossein HosseinzadehPharmaceutical Research Center, Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran0000-0002-3483-851XJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s):</em>Acrylamide (ACR) has many applications in different industries. ACR damages the central and the peripheral nervous system in human and animals. Importance of ACR-induced neurotoxicity encouraged researchers to find both different mechanisms involved in ACR neurotoxicity and potent neuroprotective agents. Therefore, this study was designed to investigate the protective effect of crocin, an active constituent of <em>Crocus sativus </em>L. (saffron) on ACR-induced neurotoxicity in Wistar rats.
<em>Materials and Methods:</em> Animals were treated with ACR (50 mg/kg, IP) 11 days for induction neurotoxicity. Crocin (12.5, 25 and 50 mg/kg, IP) were used during treatment with ACR. At the end of treatment, gait score examination was performed. Then, rats were sacrificed and the severity of damage in brain tissue was determined using pathological tests. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) content were evaluated in cerebral cortex and cerebellum to determine the role of oxidative stress in this model.
<em>Results: </em>Exposure to ACR induced severe gait abnormalities and pathological changes, but administration of crocin markedly improved behavioral index and histopathological damages. The elevation of lipid peroxidation parallel with reduction of GSH level was observed in cerebral cortex and cerebellum following exposure to ACR. Treatment with crocin markedly decreased MDA level, while elevated GSH content in nervous system as compared to ACR-treated animals.
<em>Conclusion:</em> The administration of crocin markedly improved behavioral and histopathological damages in Wistar rats exposed to ACR. Reduction of oxidative stress can be considered as an important mechanism of neuroprotective effects of crocin against ACR-induced toxicity.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Detection and discrimination of two Brucella species by multiplex real-time PCR and high-resolution melt analysis curve from human blood and comparison of results using RFLP909914521410.22038/ijbms.2015.5214ENVahhab PiranfarDepartment of Biology, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University of Tonekabon, Tonekabon, IranMalike SharifDepartment of Biology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, IranMojtaba HashemiDepartment of Biology, Tonekabon Branch, Islamic Azad University of Tonekabon, Tonekabon, IranAli Reza VahdatiInstitute of Evolutionary Biology and Environmental Studies, University of Zurich, Zurich, SwitzerlandReza MirnejadMolecular Biology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s): </em>Rapid and accurate detection of <em>Brucella abortus</em> and <em>Brucella melitensis</em> from clinical samples is so important because antibiotic treatment has major side effects. This study reveals a new method in detection of clinical samples of brucellosis using real-time PCR and high-resolution melt (HRM) curve analysis.
<em>Materials and Methods</em>: 160 brucellosis suspicious samples with more than 1/80 serum antibody titers were collected and the results were compared with the RFLP method. In order to amplify the sequences for HRM analysis, <em>vdcc</em>, <em>int-hyp</em> and <em>glk</em> and for RFLP, <em>omp2a</em> and <em>omp2b</em> with <em>PstI</em> and <em>Hinf1</em> restriction endonuclease were used. At last, the accuracy and specificity of the two methods were compared with each other.
<em>Results:</em> Out of these 160 samples, multiplex real time PCR showed 108 positive samples (67.5%), including 56% <em>B. melitensis</em> and 44% <em>B. abortus;</em> whereas in PCR-RFLP 52 out of 160 samples were positive, where recognition of two species were accordant with HRM analysis, separation was based on the size of the amplified fragment. Using the designed primers and performing the assay, we confirmed this method to be much faster and have lower cost with more than 99% accuracy compared to methods such as RFLP.
<em>Conclusion:</em> The present study showed that this technique, which scans gene segments and creates an analysis pattern for detection of clinical samples, is useful and more dominant compared with PCR-RFLP. Thus, this method can be used for brucellosis detection, and clinical and epidemiological research.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901The activity of ozonated olive oil against Leishmania major promastigotes915919521510.22038/ijbms.2015.5215ENOmid RajabiDepartment of Medicinal Chemistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranAmeneh SazgarniaMedical Physics Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranFatemeh AbbasiMashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranPouran LayeghCutaneous Leishmaniasis Research Center, Qaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s):</em>Cutaneous Leishmaniasis is a common and endemic disease in Khorasan province in North-East of Iran. The pentavalant antimony (Sb V) is the mainstay of treatment that has many side effects and resistance to the drug has been reported. The microbicidal effect of ozone was proven in different microorganisms. Since there is no study in this respect and to achieve a low cost and effective treatment, we decided to evaluate the efficacy of ozone against promastigotes of <em>Leishmania major</em>,<em>in vitro</em>. <br/><em>Materials and Methods: </em>Ozonated olive oil was prepared after production of ozone by bubbling ozone-oxygen gas produced by ozone generator through olive oil until it solidified. Promastigotes of <em>L. major</em> were cultivated in two phasic media. After calculation of the number of promastigotes, they were incubated with ozonated olive oil (0, 0.626, 0.938, 1.25, 2.5, 5, 10 mcg/ml) at 28 <sup>°</sup>c for 24 hr. Parasites survival percentage was evaluated using MTS and microscopic assay, and then compared with Glucantime and non-ozonated olive oil. <br/><em>Results:</em>According to the results, there were significant differences in parasites survival percentage between ozonated olive oil and non-ozonated olive oil, at similar concentrations (<em>P</em><0.001). Ozonated olive oil was more effective than Glucantime. According to MTS results, Glucantime and ozonated olive oil gel concentrations that are required to inhibit the growth of <em>L. major </em>promastigotes by 50% (IC<sub>50</sub>), were 165 and 0.002 mg/ml, respectively. <br/><em>Conclusion:</em> Ozonated olive oil has <em>in vitro</em> activity against the promastigotes of <em>L. major</em> and this effect is dose dependent.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901The trophic effect of ciliary neurotrophic factor on injured masseter muscle in rat920926521610.22038/ijbms.2015.5216ENYujun ZhangShandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, College of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China. Postcode: 250012Xiaohui WangCollege of Stomatology, Taishan Medical College, Taian City, Shandong Province, ChinaMengmeng ZhangShandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, College of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China. Postcode: 250012Xuefen LinShandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, College of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China. Postcode: 250012Qingting WuShandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, College of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China. Postcode: 250012Yingying YangShandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, College of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China. Postcode: 250012Jingjing KongShandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, College of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China. Postcode: 250012Ping JiShandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine, College of Stomatology, Shandong University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China. Postcode: 250012Journal Article20151005<em>Objective(s</em><em>): </em>Occlusal trauma is one of the most common forms of oral biting dysfunction. Long-term occlusal trauma could weaken the stomatognathic system; especially damage one’s masticatory muscle. Through using the rat model, this study investigated the trophic effect of ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) on injured masseter muscle.
<em>Materials and Methods:</em> Male Wistar rats (n=36) were randomly divided into five experimental groups and one control group (6 rats per group). Animals in the experimental group were cemented modified crowns on their mandibular first molars to artificially induce occlusal trauma in 1, 3, 7, 14, and 28 days. Control group was sham-treated with forced mouth-opening for about 5 min, while no crowns were placed. After 28 days of treatment, all rats were euthanized and their masseter muscle was collected. Through immunofluorescence and real-time quantitative PCR, the expression of desmin, CNTF, and CNTFRα was investigated in rat masseter muscle. The microstructure of masseter muscle was observed by transmission electron microscope.
<em>Results: </em>The expression of desmin showed a time-dependent decrease on traumatic and non-traumatic sides masseter, until reached the nadir at the 14<sup>th</sup> day, then restored to its normal level at the 28<sup>th</sup> day; however, the expression of CNTF and CNTFRα on the traumatic and non-traumatic sides increased from day 7, reached the peak at the 14<sup>th</sup> day, and returned to normal level on the 28<sup>th</sup> day.
<em>Conclusion:</em>CNTF, as an important neurotrophic factor, was tightly associated to the restoring of rat injured masseter muscle, which provides new target and treatment method for clinical application.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Tadalafil attenuates graft arteriosclerosis of aortic transplant in a rat model927931521710.22038/ijbms.2015.5217ENXu ZiqiangTransplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, ChinaWang JingjunTransplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, ChinaZheng JianjianTransplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, ChinaLiang YongTransplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, ChinaXia PengTransplantation Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, ChinaJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s): </em>Tadalafil can restore endothelial function and treat atherosclerosis. However, the effect of tadalafil on transplant arteriosclerosis remains unclear. In this study, we explore the effects of tadalafil on allograft vasculopathy.
<em>Materials and Methods:</em> Male Brow-Norway rats supplied aorta grafts for Male Lewis rats. All recipients were divided into 3 groups: saline as placebo (control) treated group, low dose tadalafil (0.5 mg/kg/day) treated group, and high dose tadalafil (1.0 mg/kg/day) treated group. Eight weeks after transplantation, the grafts were harvested at and analyzed by histological and Western blot analysis. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used for measure of plasma cyclic guanylate monophosphate (cGMP).
<em>Results:</em>the treatment with tadalafil significantly alleviated the neointimal thickness of aortas compared with the control group (<em>P</em><0.05). Tadalafil also remarkably enhanced the production of cGMP in plasma and expression of cGMP-dependent kinase I (PKG-I) and RhoA compared with control group (<em>P</em><0.05).
<em>Conclusion: </em>These results showed that tadalafil can attenuate graft arteriosclerosis by cGMP -PKG-I pathway.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract on the structure of Cornu Ammonis in aged rat: A morphometric study932937521810.22038/ijbms.2015.5218ENMohammad Hosseini-sharifabadDepartment of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IranMorteza AnvariDepartment of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s):</em>Growing evidence indicates that extract of <em>Ginkgo biloba</em> (EGb) attenuates hippocampal-dependent memory deficit in aged individuals; however, very little is known about the effect of EGb on the structure of hippocampus. Therefore we examined the EGb-induced morphological changes of the Cornu Ammonis (CA) region in aged rats.
<em>Materials and Methods:</em> Sixteen aged male Wistar rats, 24 months old, were randomly divided into experimental and control groups. Experimental group was orally administered EGb (100 mg/kg/d for 8 weeks), and the control group received a similar volume of water. The volume estimation of CA hippocampal field was done by Cavalieri principle and a quantitative Golgi study was also used for analysis of dendritic arborizations of CA3 and CA1 pyramidal cells.
<em>Results:</em>Results revealed that EGb-treated aged rats had greater volumes than control animals in the layers of pyramidal and radiatum lacunosum moleculare in both CA3 and CA1 subfields. The neurons of CA3 and CA1 in experimental rats had more dendritic segments and larger total dendritic length compared to the control. The results also showed that the aged rats treated by EGb had more numerical branching density in the apical dendrites of CA3 and CA1 pyramidal cells.
<em>Conclusion:</em> The results of the present study show that long-term administration of EGb could produce morphometrical changes in hippocampal pyramidal cells in aged rats. Results also provide a neuroanatomical basis for memory improvement due to chronic treatment with EGb.Mashhad University of Medical SciencesIranian Journal of Basic Medical Sciences2008-386618920150901In vivo anti-Toxoplasma activity of aripiprazole938941521910.22038/ijbms.2015.5219ENMehrzad SaraeiDepartment of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, IranCellular and Molecular Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, IranNafiseh SamadzadehDepartment of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, IranJavad KhoeiniDepartment of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, IranMojtaba ShahnaziDepartment of Medical Parasitology and Mycology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, IranMarjan Nassiri-Asl Nassiri-AslCellular and Molecular Research Center, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, IranDepartment of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran0000-0003-3701-0758Hasan JahanihashemiDepartment of Community Medicine, School of Medicine, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, IranJournal Article20151005<em>Objective(s):</em>There are supportive evidences about the possible role of latent <em>Toxoplasma. gondii</em> infections on the behavior and neurologic functions, such as increased dopamine levels in the brain. The aim of this study was to examine anti-toxoplasma activity of aripiprazole that is an atypical anti-psychotic drug in mice.
<em>Materials and Methods:</em> Mice were randomly divided into four groups, including; control, vehicle, aripiprazole 10 mg/kg, and aripiprazole 20 mg/kg. The mice were inoculated intraperitoneally with mice brain suspension containing tissue cysts. At the end of second month, the number of cysts was counted in smears prepared from brain homogenate by optical microscope.
<em>Results:</em>There was no significant difference between mean logarithms of brain cyst numbers of aripiprazole groups compared with control.
<em>Conclusion:</em>Results indicate that in aripiprazole groups, the brain cystogenesis was not decrease. Further study needs to investigate the role of anti-psychotic drugs on <em>T. gondii</em>.