-
Immunity, Inflammation and Disease Jun 2024The COVID-19 pandemic has taken many forms and continues to evolve, now around the Omicron wave, raising concerns over the globe. With COVID-19 being declared no longer... (Review)
Review
New variants of COVID-19 (XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.16, the "Arcturus"): A review of highly questioned concerns, a brief comparison between different peaks in the COVID-19 pandemic, with a focused systematic review on expert recommendations for prevention, vaccination, and treatment measures in the general...
INTRODUCTION
The COVID-19 pandemic has taken many forms and continues to evolve, now around the Omicron wave, raising concerns over the globe. With COVID-19 being declared no longer a "public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC)," the COVID pandemic is still far from over, as new Omicron subvariants of interest and concern have risen since January of 2023. Mainly with the XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.16 subvariants, the pandemic is still very much "alive" and "breathing."
METHODS
This review consists of five highly concerning questions about the current state of the COVID Omicron peak. We searched four main online databases to answer the first four questions. For the last one, we performed a systematic review of the literature, with keywords "Omicron," "Guidelines," and "Recommendations."
RESULTS
A total of 31 articles were included. The main symptoms of the current Omicron wave include a characteristically high fever, coughing, conjunctivitis (with itching eyes), sore throat, runny nose, congestion, fatigue, body ache, and headache. The median incubation period of the symptoms is shorter than the previous peaks. Vaccination against COVID can still be considered effective for the new subvariants.
CONCLUSION
Guidelines recommend continuation of personal protective measures, third and fourth dose boosters, along with administration of bivalent messenger RNA vaccine boosters. The consensus antiviral treatment is combination therapy using Nirmatrelvir and Ritonavir, and the consensus for pre-exposure prophylaxis is Tixagevimab and Cilgavimab combination. We hope the present paper raises awareness for the continuing presence of COVID and ways to lower the risks, especially for at-risk groups.
Topics: Humans; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; COVID-19 Vaccines; Vaccination; Pandemics; Antiviral Agents; COVID-19 Drug Treatment
PubMed: 38938013
DOI: 10.1002/iid3.1323 -
International Journal of... Apr 2024The current meta-analysis aims to explore the potential correlation between natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 (NRAMP1) (3'-Untranslated region [3'-UTR])... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
A Systemic Review and Meta-analysis on Natural Resistance-associated Macrophage Protein 1 (3'-Untranslated Region) and Nucleotide-binding Oligomerization Domain-2 (rs8057341) Polymorphisms and Leprosy Susceptibility in Asian and Caucasian Populations.
The current meta-analysis aims to explore the potential correlation between natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 (NRAMP1) (3'-Untranslated region [3'-UTR]) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-2 (NOD2 [rs8057341]) gene polymorphisms and their association with leprosy susceptibility in both Asian and Caucasian populations. Datas were retrieved from case control studies with NOD 2 and NRAMP 1 gene polymorphism associated with leprosy disease. Leprosy emerges as a particularly distinctive ailment among women on a global scale. The NRAMP1 (3'-UTR) and NOD2 (rs8057341) genetic variations play a crucial role in the progression of leprosy. A systematic review of relevant case-control studies was conducted across several databases, including ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Embase. Utilizing MetaGenyo and Review Manager 5.4 Version, statistical analyses were carried out. Nine case-control studies totaling 3281 controls and 3062 leprosy patients are included in the research, with the objective of examining the potential association between NRAMP1 (3'-UTR) and NOD2 (rs8057341) gene polymorphisms and leprosy risk. The review methodology was registered in PROSPERO (ID520883). The findings reveal a robust association between NRAMP1 (3'-UTR) and NOD2 (rs8057341) gene polymorphisms and leprosy risk across various genetic models. Although the funnel plot analysis did not identify publication bias, bolstering these findings and elucidating potential gene-gene and gene-environment interactions require further comprehensive epidemiological research. This study identified a strong correlation between polymorphisms in the NOD2 (rs8057341) genes and susceptibility to leprosy across two genetic models. Further comprehensive epidemiological investigations are warranted to validate these findings and explore potential interactions between these genes and environmental factors.
Topics: Humans; Leprosy; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Asian People; White People; Cation Transport Proteins; Nod2 Signaling Adaptor Protein; 3' Untranslated Regions; Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; Case-Control Studies; Female; Polymorphism, Genetic; Male
PubMed: 38916380
DOI: 10.4103/ijmy.ijmy_43_24 -
International Journal of Molecular... May 2024MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression by binding to target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). miRNAs have been implicated in a variety... (Review)
Review
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression by binding to target messenger RNAs (mRNAs). miRNAs have been implicated in a variety of cardiovascular and neurological diseases, such as myocardial infarction, cardiomyopathies of various geneses, rhythmological diseases, neurodegenerative illnesses and strokes. Numerous studies have focused on the expression of miRNA patterns with respect to atrial fibrillation (AF) or acute ischemic stroke (AIS) However, only a few studies have addressed the expression pattern of miRNAs in patients with AF and AIS in order to provide not only preventive information but also to identify therapeutic potentials. Therefore, the aim of this review is to summarize 18 existing manuscripts that have dealt with this combined topic of AF and associated AIS in detail and to shed light on the most frequently mentioned miRNAs-1, -19, -21, -145 and -146 with regard to their molecular mechanisms and targets on both the heart and the brain. From this, possible diagnostic and therapeutic consequences for the future could be derived.
Topics: Humans; Atrial Fibrillation; MicroRNAs; Biomarkers; Stroke; Gene Expression Regulation; Animals
PubMed: 38791605
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25105568 -
BMC Cancer May 2024Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a type of fast-growing brain glioma associated with a very poor prognosis. This study aims to identify key genes whose expression is...
BACKGROUND
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a type of fast-growing brain glioma associated with a very poor prognosis. This study aims to identify key genes whose expression is associated with the overall survival (OS) in patients with GBM.
METHODS
A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane, and Web of Science up to Journey 2024. Two researchers independently extracted the data and assessed the study quality according to the New Castle Ottawa scale (NOS). The genes whose expression was found to be associated with survival were identified and considered in a subsequent bioinformatic study. The products of these genes were also analyzed considering protein-protein interaction (PPI) relationship analysis using STRING. Additionally, the most important genes associated with GBM patients' survival were also identified using the Cytoscape 3.9.0 software. For final validation, GEPIA and CGGA (mRNAseq_325 and mRNAseq_693) databases were used to conduct OS analyses. Gene set enrichment analysis was performed with GO Biological Process 2023.
RESULTS
From an initial search of 4104 articles, 255 studies were included from 24 countries. Studies described 613 unique genes whose mRNAs were significantly associated with OS in GBM patients, of which 107 were described in 2 or more studies. Based on the NOS, 131 studies were of high quality, while 124 were considered as low-quality studies. According to the PPI network, 31 key target genes were identified. Pathway analysis revealed five hub genes (IL6, NOTCH1, TGFB1, EGFR, and KDR). However, in the validation study, only, the FN1 gene was significant in three cohorts.
CONCLUSION
We successfully identified the most important 31 genes whose products may be considered as potential prognosis biomarkers as well as candidate target genes for innovative therapy of GBM tumors.
Topics: Glioblastoma; Humans; Computational Biology; Biomarkers, Tumor; Prognosis; Brain Neoplasms; RNA, Messenger; Protein Interaction Maps; Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; Gene Expression Profiling
PubMed: 38773447
DOI: 10.1186/s12885-024-12345-z -
Journal of Cancer 2024Meta analysis was adopted to investigate the correlation between messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression and clinicopathological features of breast cancer (BC).
BACKGROUND
Meta analysis was adopted to investigate the correlation between messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) expression and clinicopathological features of breast cancer (BC).
METHODS
English databases, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and The Cochrane Library, etc., were searched using a computer. The time range of retrieval was set to be from the establishment of the database to December 2023. The search terms were set as "mRNA", "Breast cancer", "Pathology", "Clinicopathological characteristics", etc. The literatures were screened in line with the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the data was extracted for analysis by Revman5.3.
RESULTS
Finally, 5 suitable included literatures were selected, including 969 patients. The analysis results were found to reveal a significant association between mRNA expression and BC grading (OR = 0.11, 95% CI = 0.04-0.30, Z = 4.26, <0.0001); a significant correlation was observed between mRNA expression and BC staging (OR = 0.19, 95% CI = 0.05-0.65, Z = 2.65, = 0.008<0.05); no correlation was found between mRNA expression and menstrual status of BC patients (OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.22-1.78, Z = 0.88, = 0.38>0.05); a correlation was identified between mRNA expression and tumor size in BC (OR = 0.48, 95% CI = 0.24-0.99, Z = 2.00, = 0.05). In the Discussion section, this study, comprising 10 research studies, aimed to explore the correlation between messenger ribonucleic acid and the clinical pathological features of BC. staging and grading of BC, a certain correlation with tumor size, and no correlation with the menstrual status of BC patients.
PubMed: 38706916
DOI: 10.7150/jca.93607 -
Viruses Mar 2024The post-transcriptional regulatory element (PRE) is present in all HBV mRNAs and plays a major role in their stability, nuclear export, and enhancement of viral gene... (Review)
Review
The post-transcriptional regulatory element (PRE) is present in all HBV mRNAs and plays a major role in their stability, nuclear export, and enhancement of viral gene expression. Understanding PRE's structure, function, and mode of action is essential to leverage its potential as a therapeutic target. A wide range of PRE-based reagents and tools have been developed and assessed in preclinical and clinical settings for therapeutic and biotechnology applications. This manuscript aims to provide a systematic review of the characteristics and mechanism of action of PRE, as well as elucidating its current applications in basic and clinical research. Finally, we discuss the promising opportunities that PRE may provide to antiviral development, viral biology, and potentially beyond.
Topics: Animals; Humans; Antiviral Agents; Gene Expression Regulation, Viral; Hepatitis B; Hepatitis B virus; RNA Processing, Post-Transcriptional; RNA, Messenger; RNA, Viral
PubMed: 38675871
DOI: 10.3390/v16040528 -
BMC Ophthalmology Apr 2024The goal of the study was to search for novel bi-allelic CRB1 mutations, and then to analyze the CRB1 literature at the genotypic and phenotypic levels. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
PURPOSE
The goal of the study was to search for novel bi-allelic CRB1 mutations, and then to analyze the CRB1 literature at the genotypic and phenotypic levels.
APPROACH
We screened various variables such as the CRB1 mutation types, domains, exons, and genotypes and their relation with specific ocular phenotypes. An emphasis was given to the bi-allelic missense and nonsense mutations because of their high prevalence compared to other mutation types. Finally, we quantified the effect of various non-modifiable factors over the best-corrected visual acuity oculus uterque (BCVA OU) using multivariate linear regression models and identified genetic interactions.
RESULTS
A novel bi-allelic missense in the exon 9 of CRB1; c.2936G > A; p.(Gly979Asp) was found to be associated with rod-cone dystrophy (RCD). CRB1 mutation type, exons, domains, and genotype distribution varied significantly according to fundus characteristics, such as peripheral pigmentation and condition, optic disc, vessels, macular condition, and pigmentation (P < 0.05). Of the 154 articles retrieved from PubMed, 96 studies with 439 bi-allelic CRB1 patients were included. Missense mutations were significantly associated with an absence of macular pigments, pale optic disc, and periphery pigmentation, resulting in a higher risk of RCD (P < 0.05). In contrast, homozygous nonsense mutations were associated with macular pigments, periphery pigments, and a high risk of LCA (P < 0.05) and increased BCVA OU levels. We found that age, mutation types, and inherited retinal diseases were critical determinants of BCVA OU as they significantly increased it by 33% 26%, and 38%, respectively (P < 0.05). Loss of function alleles additively increased the risk of LCA, with nonsense having a more profound effect than indels. Finally, our analysis showed that p.(Cys948Tyr) and p.(Lys801Ter) and p.(Lys801Ter); p.(Cys896Ter) might interact to modify BCVA OU levels.
CONCLUSION
This meta-analysis updated the literature and identified genotype-phenotype associations in bi-allelic CRB1 patients.
Topics: Humans; Alleles; Codon, Nonsense; Nerve Tissue Proteins; Genetic Association Studies; Retina; Phenotype; Mutation; Eye Proteins; Pedigree; DNA Mutational Analysis; Membrane Proteins
PubMed: 38622537
DOI: 10.1186/s12886-024-03419-4 -
European Review For Medical and... Mar 2024To evaluate the vaccine effectiveness (VE) of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in children using a meta-analysis approach. (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the vaccine effectiveness (VE) of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in children using a meta-analysis approach.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Relevant studies on the use of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines in children were identified through computerized searches. VE-related indicators were extracted, and data analysis was performed using the R software with the meta-package.
RESULTS
This study included a total of 12 relevant articles involving 9,963,732 participants from multiple centers in different countries, including the United States, Canada, Singapore, Israel, South Korea, and Qatar. The administered vaccine types included BNT162b2 and mRNA-1273. Participants were categorized into partially immunized (one dose of vaccine) and fully immunized (two doses of vaccine). Four articles reported VE after one dose of vaccine, while 12 reported VE after two doses. Heterogeneity analysis indicated significant heterogeneity among the studies, warranting the use of a random-effects model for analysis. Meta-analysis results revealed that the VE of partial immunization ranged from 16.61 (95% CI: 6.32-25.77) to 34.30 (95% CI: 24.21-43.04), with a pooled VE of 22.80 (95% CI: 15.68-29.32). The VE after full immunization ranged from 16.14 (95% CI: 14.42-17.83) to 90.47 (95% CI: 67.42-97.21), with a pooled VE of 56.17 (95% CI: 41.12-67.37). Meta-regression analysis showed no statistically significant correlation between VE and time (p>0.05).
CONCLUSIONS
Both partial and full immunization of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine provide benefits in reducing infection rates. VE varies over time and is closely associated with viral mutations and waning immunity. The specific mechanisms require further investigation.
Topics: Child; Humans; BNT162 Vaccine; COVID-19; COVID-19 Vaccines; Vaccine Efficacy; RNA, Messenger
PubMed: 38567617
DOI: 10.26355/eurrev_202403_35764 -
JCO Global Oncology Mar 2024Head and neck cancer accounts for about one third of the global burden in India. Mucosal high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) has been hypothesized as a contributory... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
PURPOSE
Head and neck cancer accounts for about one third of the global burden in India. Mucosal high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) has been hypothesized as a contributory risk factor for head and neck cancer (HNC) but its prevalence in Indian patients is not well established. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the prevalence of HPV in HNC in India and their attributable fraction by considering the biomarkers of carcinogenesis, p16, and HPV mRNA.
METHODS
A systematic literature search was done in Medline via PubMed, Embase, Scopus, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, and Cochrane to identify studies on HPV and HNC in the Indian population, published between January 1990 and October 2022. Fifty-four eligible studies were identified and relevant clinical information was collected. Meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence of HPV DNA, p16INK4a, and mRNA percent positivity by random-effect logistic regression model using Metapreg, STATA 18.
RESULTS
Thirty-four high-quality studies were taken for meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of HPV in HNC was 20% (95% CI, 12 to 32) with a high level of heterogeneity ( = 90.79%). The proportion of HPV in oropharyngeal cancer (OPC; 22% [95% CI, 13 to 34]) and laryngeal cancer (LC; 29% [95% CI, 17 to 46]) was higher than in oral cancer (OC; 16% [95% CI, 8 to 30]). The HPV-attributable fraction of OPC, considering the mRNA and p16 positivity, was 12.54% and 9.68%, respectively, almost similar to LC (11.6% and 9.57%), while it was much lower in OC (3.36% and 4%).
CONCLUSION
The HPV-attributable fraction is considerably lower for OC, suggesting a negligible causative role of HPV in OC. A significant proportion of OPC and LC are attributed to HPV; however, their exact causative role is unclear because of the presence of other known risk factors.
Topics: Humans; Human Papillomavirus Viruses; Papillomavirus Infections; DNA, Viral; Head and Neck Neoplasms; India; RNA, Messenger
PubMed: 38513185
DOI: 10.1200/GO.23.00464 -
Cellular & Molecular Biology Letters Mar 2024RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are kinds of proteins with either singular or multiple RNA-binding domains (RBDs), and they can assembly into ribonucleic acid-protein... (Review)
Review
RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are kinds of proteins with either singular or multiple RNA-binding domains (RBDs), and they can assembly into ribonucleic acid-protein complexes, which mediate transportation, editing, splicing, stabilization, translational efficiency, or epigenetic modifications of their binding RNA partners, and thereby modulate various physiological and pathological processes. CUG-BP, Elav-like family 1 (CELF1) is a member of the CELF family of RBPs with high affinity to the GU-rich elements in mRNA, and thus exerting control over critical processes including mRNA splicing, translation, and decay. Mounting studies support that CELF1 is correlated with occurrence, genesis and development and represents a potential therapeutical target for these malignant diseases. Herein, we present the structure and function of CELF1, outline its role and regulatory mechanisms in varieties of homeostasis and diseases, summarize the identified CELF1 regulators and their structure-activity relationships, and prospect the current challenges and their solutions during studies on CELF1 functions and corresponding drug discovery, which will facilitate the establishment of a targeted regulatory network for CELF1 in diseases and advance CELF1 as a potential drug target for disease therapy.
Topics: Homeostasis; Drug Discovery; Epigenesis, Genetic; RNA; RNA, Messenger
PubMed: 38443798
DOI: 10.1186/s11658-024-00556-y