SNPs Sets in Codifying Genes for Xenobiotics-Processing Enzymes Are Associated with COPD Secondary to Biomass-Burning Smoke.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death worldwide; the main risk factors associated with the suffering are tobacco smoking (TS) and chronic exposure to biomass-burning smoke (BBS). Different biological pathways have been associated with COPD, especially xenobiotic or drug metabolism enzymes. This research aims to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) profiles associated with COPD from two expositional sources: tobacco smoking and BBS. One thousand-five hundred Mexican mestizo subjects were included in the study and divided into those exposed to biomass-burning smoke and smokers. Genome-wide exome genotyping was carried out using Infinium Exome-24 kit arrays v. 1.2. Data quality control was conducted using PLINK 1.07. For clinical and demographic data analysis, Rstudio was used. Eight SNPs were found associated with COPD secondary to TS and seven SNPs were conserved when data were analyzed by genotype. When haplotype analyses were carried out, five blocks were predicted. In COPD secondary to BBS, 24 SNPs in MGST3 and CYP family genes were associated. Seven blocks of haplotypes were associated with COPD-BBS. SNPs in the ARNT2 and CYP46A1 genes are associated with COPD secondary to TS, while in the BBS comparison, SNPs in CYP2C8, CYP2C9, MGST3, and MGST1 genes were associated with increased COPD risk.

SERPINE1 rs6092 Variant Is Related to Plasma Coagulation Proteins in Patients with Severe COVID-19 from a Tertiary Care Hospital.

An impaired coagulation process has been described in patients with severe or critical coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Nevertheless, the implication of coagulation-related genes has not been explored. We aimed to evaluate the impact of F5 rs6025 and SERPINE1 rs6092 on invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV) requirement and the levels of coagulation proteins among patients with severe COVID-19. Four-hundred fifty-five patients with severe COVID-19 were genotyped using TaqMan assays. Coagulation-related proteins (P-Selectin, D-dimer, P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1, tissue plasminogen activator [tPA], plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, and Factor IX) were assessed by cytometric bead arrays in one- and two-time determinations. Accordingly, SERPINE1 rs6092, P-Selectin (GG 385 pg/mL vs. AG+AA 632 pg/mL, p = 0.0037), and tPA (GG 1858 pg/mL vs. AG+AA 2546 pg/mL, p = 0.0284) levels were different. Patients carrying the CT F5-rs6025 genotype exhibited lower levels of factor IX (CC 17,136 pg/mL vs. CT 10,247 pg/mL, p = 0.0355). Coagulation proteins were also different among IMV patients than non-IMV. PSGL-1 levels were significantly increased in the late stage of COVID-19 (>10 days). The frequencies of F5 rs6025 and SERPINE1 rs6092 variants were not different among IMV and non-IMV. The SERPINE1 rs6092 variant is related to the impaired coagulation process in patients with COVID-19 severe.

Effect of BCG Revaccination on Occupationally Exposed Medical Personnel Vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2.

The production of specific neutralizing antibodies by individuals is thought to be the best option for reducing the number of patients with severe COVID-19, which is the reason why multiple vaccines are currently being administered worldwide. We aimed to explore the effect of revaccination with BCG, on the response to a subsequent anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, in persons occupationally exposed to COVID-19 patients. Two groups of 30 randomized participants were selected: one group received a BCG revaccination, and the other group received a placebo. Subsequently, both groups were vaccinated against SARS-CoV-2. After each round of vaccination, the serum concentration of Th1/Th2 cytokines was determined. At the end of the protocol, neutralizing antibodies were determined and the HLA-DRB loci were genotyped. The participants from the BCG group and anti-SARS-CoV-2 vaccine group had increased serum cytokine concentrations (i.e., IL-1ß, IL-4, IL-6, IL-12p70, IL-13, IL-18, GM-CSF, INF-γ, and TNF-α) and higher neutralizing antibody titers, compared to the group with Placebo-anti-SARS-CoV-2. Twelve HLA-DRB1 alleles were identified in the Placebo-anti-SARS-CoV-2 group, and only nine in the group revaccinated with BCG. The DRB1*04 allele exhibited increased frequency in the Placebo-anti-SARS-CoV-2 group; however, no confounding effects were found with this allele. We conclude that revaccination with BCG synergizes with subsequent vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in occupationally exposed personnel.

Differential Genomic Profile in TERT, DSP, and FAM13A Between COPD Patients With Emphysema, IPF, and CPFE Syndrome.

Background: Genetic association studies have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with lasting lung diseases such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF), as well as the simultaneous presentation, known as Combined Pulmonary Fibrosis and Emphysema (CPFE) Syndrome. It is unknown if these diseases share genetic variants previously described in an independent way. This study aims to identify common or differential variants between COPD, IPF, and CPFE. Materials and methods: The association analysis was carried out through a case-control design in a Mexican mestizo population (n = 828); three patients' groups were included: COPD smokers (COPD-S, n = 178), IPF patients (n = 93), and CPFE patients (n = 16). Also, two comparison groups were analyzed: smokers without COPD (SWOC, n = 367) and healthy subjects belonging to the Mexican Pulmonary Aging Cohort (PAC, n = 174). Five SNPs in four genes previously associated to interstitial and obstructive diseases were selected: rs2609255 (FAM13A), rs2736100 (TERT), rs2076295 (DSP) rs5743890, and rs111521887 (TOLLIP). Genotyping was performed by qPCR using predesigned Taqman probes. Results: In comparing IPF vs. PAC, significant differences were found in the frequency of the rs260955 G allele associated with the IPF risk (OR = 1.68, p = 0.01). Also, the genotypes, GG of rs260955 (OR = 2.86, p = 0.01) and TT of rs2076295 (OR = 1.79, p = 0.03) were associated with an increased risk of IPF; after adjusting by covariables, only the rs260955 G allele remain significant (p = 0.01). For the CPFE vs. PAC comparison, an increased CPFE risk was identified since there is a difference in the rs2736100 C allele (OR = 4.02, p < 0.01; adjusted p < 0.01). For COPD-S, the rs2609255 TG genotype was associated with increased COPD risk after adjusting by covariables. Conclusion: The rs2736100 C allele is associated with decreased IPF risk and confers an increased risk for CPFE. Also, the rs2076295 TT genotype is associated with increased IPF risk, while the GG genotype is associated with CFPE susceptibility. The rs2609255 G allele and GG genotype are associated with IPF susceptibility, while the TG genotype is present in patients with emphysema.

Protective Role of Genetic Variants in HSP90 Genes-Complex in COPD Secondary to Biomass-Burning Smoke Exposure and Non-Severe COPD Forms in Tobacco Smoking Subjects.

BACKGROUND: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an inflammatory disease characterized by airflow obstruction, commonly present in smokers and subjects exposed to noxious particles product of biomass-burning smoke (BBS). Several association studies have identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in coding genes related to the heat shock proteins family-genes that codify the heat shock proteins (Hsp). Hsp accomplishes critical roles in regulating immune response, antigen-processing, eliminating protein aggregates and co-activating receptors. The presence of SNPs in these genes can lead to alterations in immune responses. We aimed to evaluate the association of SNPs in the HSP90 gene complex and COPD. METHODS: We enrolled 1549 participants, divided into two comparison groups; 919 tobacco-smoking subjects (cases COPD-TS n = 294 and, controls SWOC n = 625) and 630 chronic exposed to BBS (cases COPD-BBS n = 186 and controls BBES n = 444). We genotyped 2 SNPs: the rs13296 in HSP90AB1 and rs2070908 in HSP90B1. RESULTS: Through the dominant model (GC + CC), the rs2070908 is associated with decreased risk (p < 0.01, OR = 0.6) to suffer COPD among chronic exposed BBS subjects. We found an association between rs13296 GG genotype and lower risk (p = 0.01, OR = 0.22) to suffer severe COPD-TS forms in the severity analysis. CONCLUSIONS: single-nucleotide variants in the HSP90AB1 and HSP90B1 genes are associated with decreased COPD risk in subjects exposed to BBS and the most severe forms of COPD in tobacco-smoking subjects.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) in the Context of Respiratory Diseases and Its Importance in Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection.

Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) is an 805 amino acid protein encoded by the ACE2 gene expressed in various human cells, especially in those located in the epithelia. The primary function of ACE2 is to produce angiotensin (1-7) from angiotensin II (Ang II). The current research has described the importance of ACE2 and Ang (1-7) in alternative routes of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) that promote the downregulation of fibrosis, inflammation, and oxidative stress processes in a great variety of diseases, such as hypertension, acute lung injury, liver cirrhosis, and kidney abnormalities. Investigations into the recent outbreak of the new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have revealed the importance of ACE2 during infection and its role in recognizing viral binding proteins through interactions with specific amino acids of this enzyme. Additionally, the ACE2 expression in several organs has allowed us to understand the clinical picture related to the infection caused by SARS-CoV-2. This review aims to provide context for the functions and importance of ACE2 with regards to SARS-CoV-2 in the general clinical aspect and its impact on other diseases, especially respiratory diseases.

MUC5B promoter variant rs35705950 and rheumatoid arthritis associated interstitial lung disease survival and progression.

BACKGROUND: The major risk factor for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), MUC5B rs35705950, was found to be associated with rheumatoid arthritis-associated interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD). Whilst the MUC5B rs35705950 T risk allele has been associated with better survival in IPF, its impact on RA-ILD prognosis remains to be determined. Our objective was to explore the influence of MUC5B rs35705950 on survival and progression in RA-ILD. METHODS: Through an international retrospective observational study, patients with RA-ILD were genotyped for the MUC5B rs35705950 variant and consecutive pulmonary function tests (PFTs) findings were collected. Longitudinal data up to a 10-year follow-up were considered and analyzed using mixed regression models. Proportional hazards and joint proportional hazards models were used to analyze the association of baseline and longitudinal variables with lung transplant-free survival. Significant progression of RA-ILD was defined as at least an absolute or relative 10% decline of forced vital capacity at 2 years from baseline. RESULTS: Out of 321 registered patients, 261 were included in the study: 139 women (53.3%), median age at RA-ILD diagnosis 65 years (interquartile range [IQR] 57 to 71), 151 ever smokers (59.2%). Median follow-up was 3.5 years (IQR 1.3 to 6.6). Mortality rate was 32% (95%CI 19 to 42) at 10 years. The MUC5B rs35705950 variant did not impact lung transplant-free survival (HR for the T risk allele carriers=1.26; 95%CI 0.61 to 2.62; P=0.53). Decline in pulmonary function at 2 years was not influenced by MUC5B rs35705950 (OR=0.95; 95%CI 0.44 to 2.05; P=0.89), irrespective of the HRCT pattern. CONCLUSION: In this study, the MUC5B rs35705950 promoter variant did not influence transplant- free survival or decline in pulmonary function in patients with RA-ILD.

Genetic Susceptibility to Antisynthetase Syndrome Associated With Single-Nucleotide Variants in the IL1B Gene That Lead Variation in IL-1ß Serum Levels.

The antisynthetase syndrome (ASSD) is an autoimmune disorder characterized by myositis, arthritis, mechanic's hands, fever, Raynaud phenomenon, and interstitial lung disease (ILD). We aimed to evaluate single-nucleotide polymorphisms in the interleukin 1B (IL1B) gene and their association between ILD with antisynthetase autoantibodies, as well as IL-1ß serum levels. The most frequent antisynthetase autoantibody was anti-Jo1. The most frequent tomographic pattern was non-specific interstitial pneumonia, whereas in the anti-Jo1 subjects, it was organized pneumonia. Anti-Jo1 patients tend to have more significant arthritis, and Raynaud phenomenon have higher levels of creatinine phosphokinase. In the IL1B gene, the GG genotype and G allele of rs1143634 [odds ratio (OR) = 2.21 and OR = 2.60, respectively, p < 0.05] are associated with an increased risk, as well as with the dominant and recessive models (p < 0.05). This finding is maintained after logistic regression analysis adjusting for potential confounding variables (p < 0.05). Subjects with the rs16944/AG heterozygous genotype had higher serum levels of IL-1ß compared to homozygous (p < 0.05). In conclusion, rs1143634 is associated with a higher risk of ASSD. Also, the GA genotype is associated with higher levels of IL-1ß in ASSD patients.

The SNP rs13147758 in the HHIP Gene Is Associated With COPD Susceptibility, Serum, and Sputum Protein Levels in Smokers.

BACKGROUND: Genetic association studies have identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) susceptibility. The aim of this study was to identify HHIP genetic variants associated with COPD, pulmonary function, and serum and sputum HHIP protein levels in Mexican mestizo smokers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Association analysis was performed by carrying out a case-control study in Mexican mestizo smokers comprised of two groups: tobacco-smoking subjects with COPD (COPD-TS, n = 222) and smokers without COPD (SWOC, n = 333). We evaluated three SNPs (rs13147758, rs1828591, and rs13118928) in the HHIP gene. Allele discrimination was accomplished by qPCR using TaqMan probes, and determination of protein levels in the serum and sputum supernatants (SS) was performed using ELISA. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were observed in the rs13147758 GG genotype (adjusted p = 0.014, OR = 1.95) and the rs13147758-rs1828591 GA haplotype (p = 6.6E-06, OR = 2.65) in the case-control comparison. HHIP protein levels were elevated in SS samples from the COPD-TS group compared to those from the SWOC group (p = 0.03). Based on genotype analysis, HHIP protein levels were lower in the serum samples of rs13147758 GG genotype carriers in the COPD-TS group than in the serum samples of rs13147758 GG genotype carriers from the SWOC group (p < 0.05), but there were no differences in the sputum samples. CONCLUSION: The rs13147758 GG genotype and the rs13147758-rs1828591 GA haplotype are associated with susceptibility to COPD. Furthermore, an association in protein levels was observed between the HHIP rs13147758 genotype and COPD in Mexican mestizo smokers.

Polymorphisms in Processing and Antigen Presentation-Related Genes and Their Association with Host Susceptibility to Influenza A/H1N1 2009 Pandemic in a Mexican Mestizo Population.

(1) Background: The influenza A/H1N1 pdm09 virus rapidly spread throughout the world. Despite the inflammatory and virus-degradation pathways described in the pathogenesis of influenza A virus (IAV) infection, little is known about the role of the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes involved in the processing and antigenic presentation-related mechanisms. (2) Methods: In this case-control study, we evaluated 17 SNPs in five genes (TAP1, TAP2, TAPBP, PSMB8, and PSMB9). One hundred and twenty-eight patients with influenza A/H1N1 infection (INF-P) and 111 healthy contacts (HC) were included; all of them are Mexican mestizo. (3) Results: In allele and genotype comparison, the rs241433/C allele (TAP2), as well as AG haplotype (rs3763365 and rs4148882), are associated with reduced risk for influenza A/H1N1 infection (p < 0.05). On the other hand, the rs2071888G allele (TAPBP) and GG haplotype (rs3763365 and rs9276810) are associated with a higher risk for influenza A/H1N1 infection. In addition, after adjustment for covariates, the association to a reduced risk for influenza A/H1N1 infection remains with rs241433/C allele (p < 0.0001, OR = 0.24, 95% CI = 0.13-0.43), and the association with TAPBP is also maintained with the G allele (p = 0.0095, OR = 1.89, 95% CI = 1.17-3.06) and GG genotype models (p < 0.05, OR = 2.18, 95% CI = 1.27-3.74). (4) Conclusion: The rs241433/C allele and AC genotype (TAP2) and the AG haplotype are associated with a reduced risk for influenza A/H1N1 infection. In addition, the rs2071888/G allele and GG genotype (TAPBP) and the GG haplotype are associated with a higher risk for developing influenza A/H1N1 infection in a Mexican mestizo population.

Heterozygous Genotype rs17580 AT (PiS) in SERPINA1 is Associated with COPD Secondary to Biomass-Burning and Tobacco Smoking: A Case-Control and Populational Study.

Purpose: The protease inhibitor S (PiS) and Z (PiZ) variants have been stated as the only genetic cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in Caucasians. However, its frequency in admixed populations is low. We aimed to identify genetic susceptibility between PiS (rs17580) and PiZ (rs28929474) polymorphisms with COPD related to tobacco smoking and biomass-burning smoke as well as to determine its frequencies in Mestizo and Amerindian populations from Mexico. Patients and Methods: One thousand and eight hundred seventy-eight subjects were included in two comparisons of cases and controls, (1) smokers with and without COPD (COPD-S, n=399; SWOC, n=1106); (2) Biomass-burning smoke-exposed subjects with and without COPD (COPD-BS, n=98; BBES, n=275). In addition, 2354 Mexican subjects identified as Mestizos (n=1952) and Amerindian (n=402) were included. The population structure was evaluated using 59 informative ancestry markers. Results: The AT genotype of rs17580 is associated with COPD in both comparisons (COPD-S vs SWOC p<0.001, OR=2.16; COPD-BS vs BBES p<0.0001, OR=11.50). The population of the Mexico-North has a greater Caucasian contribution (54.7%) compared to the center (46.9%) and southeast (42.7%). Conclusion: The rs17580, AT genotype, is associated with COPD in Mexican-Mestizo smokers and exposed to biomass-burning smoke. The rs17580 AT is more frequent in the Mexican-Mestizo population of the North of the country, which has a high Caucasian component.

Single Nucleotide and Copy-Number Variants in IL4 and IL13 Are Not Associated with Asthma Susceptibility or Inflammatory Markers: A Case-Control Study in a Mexican-Mestizo Population.

BACKGROUND: Asthma is a complex and chronic inflammatory airway disease. Asthma's etiology is unknown; however, genetic and environmental factors could affect disease susceptibility. We designed a case-control study aimed to evaluate the role of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), and copy-number variants (CNV) in the IL4 and IL13 genes in asthma susceptibility and their participation in plasma cytokine levels depending on genotypes Methods: We include 486 subjects, divided into asthma patients (AP, n = 141) and clinically healthy subjects (CHS, n = 345). We genotyped three SNP, two in the IL4 and two in the IL13 gene; also, two CNVs in IL4. The IL-4, IL-13 and IgE plasma levels were quantified. RESULTS: Biomass-burning smoke exposure was higher in the AP group compared to CHS (47.5% vs. 20.9%; p < 0.01, OR = 3.4). No statistical differences were found in the genetic association analysis. In both CNV, we only found the common allele. For the analysis of IL-4, IL-13, and IgE measures stratified by genotypes, no significant association or correlation was found. CONCLUSION: In the Mexican-mestizo population, SNPs neither CNVs in IL4 nor IL13 are associated with asthma susceptibility or involved serum cytokine levels. Biomass-burning smoke is a risk factor in asthma susceptibility.

A major genetic determinant of autoimmune diseases is associated with the presence of autoantibodies in hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

BACKGROUND: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is an immune-mediated disease triggered by exposure to organic particles in susceptible individuals. It has been reported that a subgroup of patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis develops autoantibodies with or without clinical manifestations of autoimmune disease. However, the mechanisms involved in this process and the effect of the autoantibodies on clinical course in hypersensitivity pneumonitis is unknown. We evaluated the association between human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II alleles and hypersensitivity pneumonitis patients with and without autoantibodies. METHODS: 170 hypersensitivity pneumonitis patients were included. We analysed the presence of antinuclear antibodies, rheumatoid factor, anti-SSA/Ro, anti-SSB/La and anti-CCP at the time of diagnosis. In addition, in a subset of patients we evaluated anti-Scl-70, anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody, and anti-DNA. HLA typing was performed using PCR sequence-specific primers in a high-resolution modality, including HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 loci. Statistical analysis was performed employing Epi-Info v7 and SPSS v20. RESULTS: 60 hypersensitivity pneumonitis patients showed sera autoantibodies (HPAbs+), and 110 hypersensitivity pneumonitis patients did not (HPAbs-). The frequency of the allele HLA-DRB1*03:01 was remarkably increased in the HPAbs+ group (10.8% versus 0.45%; OR 30.14, 95% CI 3.83-237.1; p=1.65×10-4 after Bonferroni's correction). Likewise, we found that the haplotype DRB1*03:01-DQB1*02:01, which is part of the 8.1 ancestral haplotype, a major genetic determinant of autoimmune diseases, confers significant risk to develop autoantibodies (OR 19.23, 95% CI 2.37-155.9; p=0.0088 after Bonferroni's correction). In addition, the HLA-DRB1*03:01 allele was associated with higher mortality in patients with hypersensitivity pneumonitis (adjusted OR 5.9, 95% CI 1.05-33.05; p=0.043). CONCLUSIONS: A subset of hypersensitivity pneumonitis patients presents circulating autoantibodies and higher mortality that are associated with some alleles of 8.1 ancestral haplotype.

Genetic variants in IL17A and serum levels of IL-17A are associated with COPD related to tobacco smoking and biomass burning.

IL-17A is an important pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in the inflammatory response in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). To evaluate the role played by single nucleotide polymorphisms of IL17A and protein levels in susceptibility to COPD, 1,807 subjects were included in a case-control study; 436 had COPD related to tobacco smoking (COPD-S) and 190 had COPD related to biomass burning (COPD-BB). Six hundred fifty-seven smokers without COPD (SWOC) and 183 biomass burning-exposed subjects (BBES) served as the respective control groups. The CC genotype and C allele of rs8193036 were associated with COPD (COPD-S vs. SWOC: p < 0.05; OR = 3.01, and OR = 1.28, respectively), as well as a recessive model (p < 0.01; OR = 2.91). Significant differences in serum levels were identified between COPD-S vs. SWOC, COPD-S vs. COPD-BB, and SWOC vs. BBES (p < 0.01). By comparing genotypes in the COPD-BB group TT vs. CC and TC vs. CC (p < 0.05), we found lower levels for the CC genotype. Logistic regression analysis by co-variables was performed, keeping the associations between COPD-S vs. SWOC with both polymorphisms evaluated (p < 0.05), as well as in COPD-BB vs. BBES but with a reduced risk of exacerbation (p < 0.05). In conclusion, polymorphisms in IL17A are associated with COPD. Serum levels of IL-17A were higher in smokers with and without COPD.

HLA Allele and Haplotype Frequencies in Three Urban Mexican Populations: Genetic Diversity for the Approach of Genomic Medicine.

Genetic variability defends us against pathogen-driven antigens; human leucocyte antigens (HLA) is the immunological system in charge of this work. The Mexican mestizo population arises mainly from the mixture of three founder populations; Amerindian, Spaniards, and a smaller proportion of the African population. We describe allele and haplotype frequencies of HLA class I (-A and -B) and class II (-DRB1 and -DQB1), which were analyzed by PCR-SSP in Mexican mestizo from three urban populations of Mexico: Chihuahua-Chihuahua City (n = 88), Mexico City-Tlalpan (n = 330), and Veracruz-Xalapa (n = 84). The variability of the allele HLA class I and class II among the three regions of Mexico are in four alleles: HLA-A*24:02 (36.39%), -B*35:01 (16.04%), -DRB1*04:07 (17.33%), and -DQB1*03:02 (31.47%), these alleles have been previously described in some indigenous populations. We identified 5 haplotypes with a frequency >1%: HLA-A*02:01-B*35:01-DRB1*08:02-DQB1*04:02, A*68:01-B*39:01-DRB1*08:02-DQB1*04:02, A*02:01-B*35:01-DRB1*04:07-DQB1*03:02, A*68:01-B*39:01-DRB1*04:07-DQB1*03:02, and A*01:01-B*08:01-DRB1*03:01-DQB1*02:01. Also, the haplotype A*02:01-B*35:01-DRB1*08:02-DQB1*04:02 was identified in Tlalpan and Xalapa regions. Haplotype A*01:01-B*08:01-DRB1*03:01-DQB1*02:01 was found only in Tlalpan and Chihuahua. In the Xalapa region, the most frequent haplotype was A*24:02-B*35:01-DRB1*04:07-DQB1*03:02. These alleles and haplotypes have been described in Amerindian populations. Our data are consistent with previous studies and contribute to the analysis of the variability in the Mexican population.

IL10 rs1800872 Is Associated with Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Exacerbated Respiratory Disease in Mexican-Mestizo Patients.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) exacerbated respiratory disease (N-ERD) is a disease integrated by asthma, nasal polyps, and hypersensitivity to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). Genetic association studies have explored single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes involved in theoretical pathophysiological mechanisms, but most of these lack replication of findings in second populations. Our objective was to evaluate the association of SNPs in candidate genomic regions described in Asian and European subjects with N-ERD in Mexican-mestizo patients. We designed a replicative study in two stages. We included 381 SNPs selected by fine mapping of associated genes in a microarray, which were tested in three groups: N-ERD (N), asthma (A), and control group (CG); by means of GoldenGate array, positive results by genetic models were validated in the second stage in another population through qPCR with the same methodology. In the allelic model, we identified 11 SNPs in N vs. CG comparison, and five in N vs. A and A vs. CG, respectively. By genetics models, all SNPs in PPARG, rs13239058 in TBXAS1, and rs1554286 and rs1800872 in IL10 were associated in both models. In the second stage, only rs1800872CC showed an association in the dominant model comparing N vs. GC, p = 0.004, OR = 0.44. In conclusion, rs1800872 in IL10 was the only associated with N-ERD in Mexican-mestizo patients.

MMP2 Polymorphism Affects Plasma Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 Levels, and Correlates with the Decline in Lung Function in Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis Positive to Autoantibodies Patients.

Among hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) patients have been identified who develop autoantibodies with and without clinical manifestations of autoimmune disease. Genetic factors involved in this process and the effect of these autoantibodies on the clinical phenotype are unknown. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have an important role in architecture and pulmonary remodeling. The aim of our study was to identify polymorphisms in the MMP1, MMP2, MMP9 and MMP12 genes associated with susceptibility to HP with the presence of autoantibodies (HPAbs+). Using the dominant model of genetic association, comparisons were made between three groups. For rs7125062 in MMP1 (CC vs. CT+TT), we found an association when comparing groups of patients with healthy controls: HPAbs+ vs. HC (p < 0.001, OR = 10.62, CI 95% = 4.34 - 25.96); HP vs. HC (p < 0.001, OR = 7.85, 95% CI 95% = 4.54 - 13.57). This rs11646643 in MMP2 shows a difference in the HPAbs+ group by the dominant genetic model GG vs. GA+AA, (p = 0.001, OR = 8.11, CI 95% = 1.83 - 35.84). In the linear regression analysis, rs11646643 was associated with a difference in basal forced vital capacity (FVC)/12 months (p = 0.013, = 0.228, 95% CI95% = 1.97 - 16.72). We identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with the risk of developing HP, and with the evolution towards the phenotype with the presence of autoantibodies. Also, to the decrease in plasma MMP-2 levels.

Genetic variants as risk factors for cigarette smoking at an early age and relapse to smoking cessation treatment: A pilot study.

OBJECTIVES: Tobacco smoking is a complex and multifactorial disease involving both environmental and genetic factors. In the Mexican mestizo population, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with cigarette smoking and a greater degree of nicotine addiction have been identified; however, no possible roles have been explored in regard to the age of onset of smoking or in the success of quitting. METHODS: In this study, 151 Mexican mestizo, who smoke cigarettes, were included. They were grouped according to the age at which they started smoking: those who started smoking before 18 years of age (early smokers, ES) and those who started smoking ≥18 years of age (late smokers, LS). In addition, relapse in smoking was evaluated at the first month after the end of treatment. Genetic association was evaluated characterizing 10 SNPs in 4 genes (CHRNA5, CHRNA3, NRXN1, and HTR2A). RESULTS: According to the dominant model of genetic inheritance, rs6313 (CT+TT) of the HTR2A gene was associated (p = 0.0201) with cigarette consumption at early ages (OR = 2.68, CI = 1.18-6.07). When the risk of relapse was analyzed one month after the end of treatment, regardless of the age of onset, the T allele (rs6313) of HTR2A appeared to be a risk factor for relapse (OR = 2.92, 95% CI = 1.06-8.11); the T allele was found more frequently in those who relapsed (50.0%) compared with people who maintained abstinence (25.4%) (p = 0.0332). CONCLUSIONS: Our findings suggest that in Mexican mestizos who smoke cigarettes, the presence of the T allele in rs6313 of the HTR2A gene increases the risk for the early onset of cigarette smoking as well as the risk for relapsing one month after completing smoking cessation treatment.

Allergic sensitization increases the amount of extracellular ATP hydrolyzed by guinea pig leukocytes.

Increased levels of ATP have been found in the bronchoalveolar lavage of patients with asthma, and subjects with this disease, but not healthy subjects, develop bronchospasm after nebulization with ATP. Because the main mechanism for controlling the noxious effects of extracellular ATP is its enzymatic hydrolysis, we hypothesized that allergic sensitization is accompanied by a decreased functioning of such hydrolysis. In the present study, peripheral blood leukocytes from sensitized and non-sensitized guinea pigs were used for determining the extracellular metabolism (as assessed by inorganic phosphate production) of ATP, ADP, AMP, or adenosine, and for detecting possible changes in the expression (qPCR and Western blot) of major ectonucleotidases (NTPDase1, NTPDase3, and NPP1) and purinoceptors (P2X1, P2X7, P2Y4, and P2Y6). Contrary to our hypothesis, we found that leukocytes from allergic animals produced higher amounts of inorganic phosphate after stimulation with ATP and ADP, as compared with leukocytes from non-sensitized animals. Although at first glance, this result suggested that sensitization caused higher efficiency of ectonucleotidases, their mRNA and protein expressions were unaffected. On the other hand, after sensitization, we found a significant increase in the protein expression of P2X7 and P2Y4, two purinoceptors known to be responsible for ATP release after activation. We concluded that allergic sensitization increased the amount of ATP hydrolyzed by ectonucleotidases, the latter probably not due to the enhanced efficiency of its enzymatic breakdown, but rather due to an increased release of endogenous ATP or other nucleotides, partly mediated by enhanced expression or P2X7 and P2Y4 receptors.

Effect of SNPs in HSP Family Genes, Variation in the mRNA and Intracellular Hsp Levels in COPD Secondary to Tobacco Smoking and Biomass-Burning Smoke.

Heat shock proteins (HSP) genes are a superfamily responsible for encoding highly conserved proteins that are important for antigen presentation, immune response regulation, and cellular housekeeping processes. These proteins can be increased by cellular stress related to pollution, for example, smoke from biomass burning and/or tobacco smoking. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in these genes could affect the levels of their proteins, as well as the susceptibility to developing lung diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), related to the exposure to environmental factors. Methods: The subjects included were organized into two comparison groups: 1,103 smokers (COPD patients, COPD-S = 360; smokers without COPD, SWOC = 743) and 442 never-smokers who were chronically exposed to biomass smoke (COPD patients, COPD-BS = 244; exposed without COPD, BBES = 198). Eight SNPs in three HSP genes were selected and genotyped: four in HSPA1A, two in HSPA1B, and two in HSPA1L. Sputum expectoration was induced to obtain pulmonary cells and relative quantification of mRNA expression. Subsequently, the intracellular protein levels of total Hsp27, phosphorylated Hsp27 (Hsp27p), Hsp60, and Hsp70 were measured in a sample of 148 individuals selected based on genotypes. Results: In the smokers' group, by a dominant model analysis, we found associations between rs1008438 (CA+AA; p = 0.006, OR = 1.52), rs6457452 (CT+TT; p = 0.000015, OR = 1.99), and rs2763979 (CT+TT; p = 0.007, OR = 1.60) and the risk to COPD. Among those exposed to biomass-burning smoke, only rs1008438 (CA+AA; p < 0.01, OR = 2.84) was associated. Additionally, rs1008438 was associated with disease severity in the COPD-S group (AA; p = 0.02, OR = 2.09). An increase in the relative expression level of HSPA1A was found (12-fold change) in the COPD-BS over the BBES group. Differences in Hsp27 and Hsp60 proteins levels were found (p < 0.05) in the comparison of COPD-S vs. SWOC. Among biomass-burning smoke-exposed subjects, differences in the levels of all proteins (p < 0.05) were detected. Conclusion: SNPs in HSP genes are associated with the risk of COPD and severe forms of the disease. Differences in the intracellular Hsp levels are altered depending on the exposition source.