Relationship Between Serum Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Neurotrophin-3 Levels and Hearing Thresholds in Patients With Age-Related Hearing Loss.

BACKGROUND: Age-related hearing loss (ARHL) is a general term used to describe the sensorineural type of hearing loss occurring in both ears in older adults. Neurotrophins are the most promising candidates for supporting the auditory nerve by increasing neuronal survival. This study aimed to help elucidate the pathophysiology of ARHL by determining whether any relationship exists between brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) levels in serum samples from patients diagnosed with ARHL. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Seventy-seven individuals, a study group of 41 patients diagnosed with ARHL, and a control group of 36 participants without hearing loss were evaluated. Serum samples were collected and used to measure serum BDNF and NT-3 levels with the new Nepenthe enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. RESULTS: Median pure-tone average results in the 2000, 4000, and 6000 Hz ranges were 52.5 (44.3-67.3) dB HL in the ARHL group and 13.5 (11.1-17.1) dB HL in the control group. The difference was statistically significant (p = .001). Although NT-3 and BDNF levels were both lower in ARHL patients than in participants without hearing loss, only the BDNF levels were significantly (p = .002) lower. Mean left and right ear word recognition scores were also lower in ARHL patients than in control groups. The ARHL group was further divided into two subgroups based on word recognition scores to evaluate significant differences in BDNF and NT-3 levels. No statistically significant difference was observed in BDNF and NT-3 levels between these subgroups. However, there was a significant difference in word recognition scores. CONCLUSIONS: Low BDNF levels in the ARHL group suggest that BDNF may play a role in the pathogenesis of ARHL. Patients with low (ARHL1) and high (ARHL2) word recognition scores were compared for the first time in the literature in terms of BDNF and NT-3 levels. However, the results were not statistically significant. This article is a preliminary study and was written to provide guidance for our next comprehensive project.

The effect of homocysteine on the expression of CD36, PPARγ, and C/EBPα in adipose tissue of normal and obese mice.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of homocysteine (Hcy) on CD36, PPARγ, and C/EBPα gene and protein expression in adipose tissue obtained from normal and high-calorie diet obesity models. CD36, PPARγ, and C/EBPα gene expression and protein levels in adipose tissue specimens were determined using the RT-PCR and ELISA methods, respectively. Significantly increased CD36 gene expression was observed in adipose tissue from obese mice, while Hcy significantly reduced CD36 gene expression in adipose tissue from normal and obese mice. PPARγ and C/EBPα gene expression levels decreased significantly in all groups compared to the normal group. In addition, levels of both PPARγ and C/EBPα gene expression were lower with Hcy supplementation compared to their own controls. In conclusion, Hcy's reduction of CD36 gene expression in adipose tissue may be one probable factor in hyperhomocysteinemia representing an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.

Tr-KIT/c-KIT ratio in renal cell carcinoma.

Truncated KIT (tr-KIT) is an alternative variant of c-KIT protein. Previous studies have clearly documented that c-KIT was associated with various oncogenic processes in RCC. However, the biological significance of tr-KIT in RCC development and progression remains unclear. So, it was aimed to investigate the possible association between RCC and tr-KIT which is thought to activate some oncogenic pathways. In this study, Kidney Cancer cDNA Array containing a total of 48 cDNA samples from the normal kidney tissues of 9 healthy subjects and kidney tumor tissues of 10 stage-1, 5 stage-2, 13 stage-3 and 11 stage-4 RCC patients was used for gene expression analysis. Real-Time PCR method was used to measure tr-KIT/c-KIT expression ratios. tr-KIT/c-KIT expression ratio was compared between tumor and normal samples, and statistically correlated with the clinical parameters of RCC patients. tr-KIT/c-KIT expression ratio was approximately 4-times higher in tumor samples than control ones (p = 0.001). Also, tr-KIT/c-KIT expression ratio was approximately two, three and six times higher in Fuhrman nuclear grades 2, 3 and 4 than normal, respectively (p = 0.009). Moreover, clear cell and papillary RCC has a significantly higher level of tr-KIT/c-KIT expression ratio than chromophobe RCC (p = 0.016). In the current study, it was stated for the first time that tr-KIT/c-KIT expression ratio was up-regulated in RCC tissues, and high tr-KIT/c-KIT expression ratio was correlated with more aggressive clinical features and poor patient prognosis. Our results suggest that increased tr-KIT/c-KIT expression ratio might be useful as a prognostic marker for RCC patients.

The diagnostic value of FNDC5/irisin in renal cell cancer

ABSTRACT Purposes: The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic significance of fibronectin type III domain containing protein 5 (FNDC5)/Irisin levels in the sera of patients with renal cell cancer. Materials and Methods: In the study, 48 individuals were evaluated. The patient group included 23 subjects diagnosed with renal tumor, and the control group of 25 healthy individuals. Patients diagnosed with renal tumor received surgical treatment consisting of radical or partial nephrectomy. Blood specimens were collected and serum FNDC5/Irisin and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: FNDC5/irisin and CEA levels in renal cancer patients were significantly higher compared with the control group (p=0.0001, p=0.009, respectively). Also, FNDC5 levels was more sensitive and specific than CEA levels. The best cut-off points for FNDC5/irisin were >105pg/mL and CEA were >2.67ng/mL for renal cancer. Conclusions: FNDC5/Irisin may be used as a diagnostic biomarker for renal cancer.

The Diagnostic Value of FNDC5/Irisin in Renal Cell Cancer.

PURPOSES: The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic significance of fibronectin type III domain containing protein 5 (FNDC5)/Irisin levels in the sera of patients with renal cell cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the study, 48 individuals were evaluated. The patient group included 23 subjects diagnosed with renal tumor, and the control group of 25 healthy individuals. Patients diagnosed with renal tumor received surgical treatment consisting of radical or partial nephrectomy. Blood specimens were collected and serum FNDC5/ Irisin and carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels were determined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: FNDC5/irisin and CEA levels in renal cancer patients were significantly higher compared with the control group (p=0.0001, p=0.009, respectively). Also, FNDC5 levels was more sensitive and specific than CEA levels. The best cut-off points for FNDC5/ irisin were >105pg/mL and CEA were >2.67ng/mL for renal cancer. CONCLUSIONS: FNDC5/Irisin may be used as a diagnostic biomarker for renal cancer.

SCUBE1: a promising biomarker in renal cell cancer

ABSTRACT Purpose To investigate the efficacy of signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 1 (SCUBE-1) as a novel biomarker of renal tumors. Materials and Methods 48 individuals were included in the study. The patient group (Group-1) consisted of 23 subjects diagnosed with renal tumor, and the control group (Group-2) of 25 healthy individuals. Patients diagnosed with renal tumor received surgical treatment consisting of radical or partial nephrectomy. Blood specimens were collected following overnight fasting. Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 1 (SCUBE-1), soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX) levels were measured from plasma samples. Patients in groups 1 and 2 were compared in terms of these biochemical parameters. Results The 23-member renal tumor group was made up of 17 (73.91%) male and 6 (26.08%) female patients with a mean age of 58.5±15.7 years (range 25 to 80). The 24-member healthy control group was made up of 16 (64%) male and 9 (36%) female subjects with a mean age of 52.4±9.12 years (range 40 to 67). Analysis revealed significant elevation in SCUBE-1 levels in the renal tumor group (p=0.005). No significant differences were detected between the groups with regard to CA IX or suPAR measurements (p=0.062 vs. p=0.176). Conclusions SCUBE-1 appears to represent a promising biomarker in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with renal tumor.

SCUBE1: a promising biomarker in renal cell cancer.

PURPOSE: To investigate the efficacy of signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 1 (SCUBE-1) as a novel biomarker of renal tumors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 48 individuals were included in the study. The patient group (Group-1) consisted of 23 subjects diagnosed with renal tumor, and the control group (Group-2) of 25 healthy individuals. Patients diagnosed with renal tumor received surgical treatment consisting of radical or partial nephrectomy. Blood specimens were collected following overnight fasting. Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 1 (SCUBE-1), soluble urokinase plasminogen activator receptor (suPAR) and carbonic anhydrase IX (CA IX) levels were measured from plasma samples. Patients in groups 1 and 2 were compared in terms of these biochemical parameters. RESULTS: The 23-member renal tumor group was made up of 17 (73.91%) male and 6 (26.08%) female patients with a mean age of 58.5±15.7 years (range 25 to 80). The 24-member healthy control group was made up of 16 (64%) male and 9 (36%) female subjects with a mean age of 52.4±9.12 years (range 40 to 67). Analysis revealed significant elevation in SCUBE-1 levels in the renal tumor group (p=0.005). No significant differences were detected between the groups with regard to CA IX or suPAR measurements (p=0.062 vs. p=0.176). CONCLUSIONS: SCUBE-1 appears to represent a promising biomarker in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with renal tumor.

Carvacrol attenuates cyclophosphamide-induced oxidative stress in rat kidney.

Cyclophosphamide (CP) is an antineoplastic drug that induces kidney damage via producing oxidative stress. Carvacrol (CAR) has antioxidative effect and we postulated that it can be protective against CP-induced nephrotoxicity. Six groups (n = 7) of rats (control, 100 mg/kg CP, CP+5 mg/kg CAR, CP+10 mg/kg CAR, 5 mg/kg CAR, and 10 mg/kg CAR) were injected intraperitoneally. Serum malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), creatinine (CRE), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and total oxidant state (TOS) were measured, and oxidative stress indexes (OSI) were calculated. Kidneys were also analyzed histologically. In CP-alone group MDA, CRE, TOS, and OSI levels increased whereas GSH, SOD, CAT, and TAC levels decreased compared with control group. In CP plus CAR groups, MDA, TOS, and OSI levels decreased whereas GSH, SOD, CAT, and TAC levels increased compared with CP-alone group. However, CRE levels were similar in CP-alone and CP+5 CAR group whereas decreased in CP+10 CAR group. CP+10 CAR group was significantly different in all parameters (except TAC) from CP+5 CAR group. Kidney microscopy was showed lower tissue damage in CP plus CAR groups. In conclusion, 10 mg/kg CAR is more effective than 5 mg/kg CAR in prevention of CP-induced oxidative damage on kidney.

Investigation of N-acetylcysteine on contralateral testis tissue injury by experimental testicular torsion: long-term effect.

BACKGROUND: The aim of the study was to investigate long-term effects of N-acetylcysteine (NAC) on contralateral testes by experimental testicular torsion using histopathologic and biochemical parameters. METHODS: Eighteen rats were randomized and divided into 3 groups. In group 1, the control group (C), laparotomy was performed and the left and right testes were excised 2 months later. In group 2, the torsion and detorsion group (T), the torsion was performed by rotating the left testis 720° to clockwise direction, and then 4 hours later, detorsion was performed; 2 months later, contralateral testes were removed. In group 3, the NAC adding torsion and detorsion group (T+NAC), the torsion was performed by rotating the left testis 720° to clockwise direction, and then 4 hours later, detorsion was performed. N-acetylcysteine was given intraperitoneally 30 minutes before detorsion and following 5 days after detorsion. RESULTS: GPx activities were increased in the T and T+NAC groups compared with the control (P = .008 and P = .016, respectively). Seminiferous tubule diameter thickness is decreased in the torsion group compared with the control group and decreased in the T+NAC group compared with the torsion group (P < .05). CONCLUSION: In the long term as implied from the histopathologic findings, NAC has beneficial effects against contralateral testis tissue injury induced by testicular torsion.

Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 1 (SCUBE1) levels in patients with overt and subclinical hyperthyroidism: effects of treatment.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 1 (SCUBE1) has been shown to increase in parallel with platelet activation in acute ischaemic and thrombotic diseases. There has been no study evaluating SCUBE1 levels in patients with overt hyperthyroidism (OHyper) and subclinical hyperthyroidism (SHyper), conditions which are known to show impairment of both endothelial and platelet function. This study sought to evaluate SCUBE1 concentrations in patients with SHyper and OHyper, and assessed the effects of antithyroid drug (ATD) therapy on circulating SCUBE1 levels. DESIGN AND METHODS: Forty-five untreated patients with OHyper, 20 untreated patients with SHyper and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were prospectively included in the study. Biochemical and hormonal parameters were evaluated in all patients before and after treatment. RESULTS: Compared with the control subjects, SCUBE1 levels were significantly increased in patients with SHyper and OHyper (P < 0·0001 and P = 0·002, respectively). SCUBE1 levels were not significantly different in patients with OHyper compared with patients with SHyper. There was no significant correlation between serum thyroid hormones and SCUBE1 levels. Plasma SCUBE1 levels decreased significantly in both OHyper and SHyper after ATD treatment (P < 0·05). CONCLUSIONS: Increased SCUBE1 levels in both SHyper and OHyper patients may reflect increased platelet activation and possible endothelial dysfunction, which might augment the risk for atherosclerotic and atherothrombotic complications. SCUBE1 may be used as a reliable marker of endothelial damage in hyperthyroidism, especially in the subclinical period.

A new predictor of mortality in hemodialysis patients; Tenascin-C.

AIM: Cardiovascular disease is the most frequent cause of mortality in hemodialysis patients. There are a number of inconsistencies in terms of cardiovascular risk factors in these patients. Tenascin C (TN-C) is a matricellular protein which may be a prognostic predictor after myocardial infarction and many cardiac diseases. The purpose of this study was to determine TN-C levels in hemodialysis patients and to evaluate the association between TN-C levels and cardiac mortality. MAIN METHODS: In this multicenter prospective observational research, blood specimens were collected at the start of the study for the measurement of TN-C and other biochemical parameters. After 2 years' follow-up we investigated the association between TN-C and other biochemical and demographic parameters and cardiac and all cause mortality. KEY FINDINGS: Two hundred thirty-eight patients and 25 healthy individuals were enrolled. TN-C levels in the hemodialysis group were higher than those in the control group (p b 0.001). All-cause mortality was observed in 47 (19%) patients and cardiac mortality in 39 (15%). At multivariate Cox regression analysis, TN-C, age and systolic blood pressure were identified as independent predictors of cardiac mortality. The Kaplan­Meier survival curve revealed greater all-cause and cardiac mortality rates in the high TN-C group (Log rank p b 0.001 and p b 0.05 respectively). SIGNIFICANCE: TN-C levels were higher than those in the control group, and our results suggest that it may be a predictor of cardiac mortality in hemodialysis patients. If further studies support our research, TN-C may be a useful biomarker for detecting cardiac mortality risk.

The Diagnostic Value of Plasma SCUBE1, a Novel Biomarker of Platelet Activation, in Testicular Torsion: A Randomized, Controlled, Experimental Study.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the potential diagnostic value of plasma signal peptide, CUB (complement proteins C1r/C1s, Uegf, Bmp1) domain, epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like 1 (SCUBE1) protein in experimentally induced testicular torsion (TT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this randomized, controlled, experimental study, 24 mature male Wistar rats were divided into four groups: 2- and 4-hour control (groups I and III, respectively), and 2- and 4-hour torsion (groups II and IV, respectively) groups. Torsion was performed by rotating the left testis 720° clockwise and maintained by fixing the testis. Plasma SCUBE1 levels and histopathological damage scores were compared. RESULTS: There was significantly greater histopathological damage in the 4-hour torsion group compared with the other groups. SCUBE1 levels in this group were also higher than those in the other groups, and the difference was significant. There were significant correlations between histopathological scores and SCUBE1 levels. CONCLUSION: SCUBE1, a novel marker of platelet activation, is elevated in TT. According to our results, platelet activation may play an important pathological role in tissue injury associated with testicular ischemia. Plasma SCUBE1 measurement may have diagnostic, therapeutic, or prognostic value in TT.

Can be galectin-3 a novel marker in determining mortality in hemodialysis patients?

BACKGROUND: Cardiovascular (CV) mortality is common in hemodialysis (HD) patients. There are some difficulties involved in determining CV risk. Galectin-3 is a molecule with a demonstrated correlation with CV mortality and which is approved in the stratification of heart failure (HF) risk. The purpose of this study was to assess the previously uninvestigated relationship between galectin-3 and cardiac mortality in HD patients. METHODS: Two hundred ninety clinically stable HD patients aged over 18 and on a thrice-weekly intermittent HD program lasting >3 months and 30 healthy individuals were enrolled in this multi-center, prospective, observational study and monitored over 24 months. Blood specimens were collected at the start of the study for the measurement of galectin-3 and other biochemical parameters. At the end of the study, the relations between galectin-3 and other biochemical and demographic parameters and mortality were analyzed. RESULTS: Galectin-3 levels were significantly higher in the HD group compared to the control group (p < 0.001). All-cause mortality was observed in 63 (21%) patients. At multivariate Cox regression analysis, age, low albumin, low DBP, high galectin-3 and high HsCRP were identified as prognostic determinants of all-cause mortality, while age, low albumin, high galectin-3 and high SBP were identified as prognostic determinants of cardiac mortality. CONCLUSION: This study shows, for the first time in the literature, that galectin-3 may be a novel biomarker of cardiac mortality in HD patients. We think that, when supported by further studies, galectin-3 can be a promising biomarker in predicting cardiac mortality in HD patients.

Is SCUBE 1 a new biomarker for gastric cancer?

PURPOSES: This study was intended to determine the diagnostic significance of signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing protein 1 (SCUBE 1) levels in gastric cancer. METHODS: This retrospective study was conducted with patients with gastric cancer. SCUBE 1 titers of plasma in patients with gastric cancer were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: SCUBE 1 titers of gastric cancer patients were significantly higher compared with the control group (P=0.0001). At a SCUBE 1 cut-off point of 43 ng/mL, sensitivity was 67%, specificity 91%, positive predictive values (PPV) 92% and negative predictive values(NPV) 63%. SCUBE 1 levels of patients with methastase were not different from patients without methastase (P> 0.05). DICUSSIONS: SCUBE 1 levels in patients with gastric cancer were found higher compared to healthy subjects.