A pair of transporters controls mitochondrial Zn2+ levels to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis

Zn2+ is required for the activity of many mitochondrial proteins, which regulate mitochondrial dynamics, apoptosis and mitophagy. However, it is not understood how the proper mitochondrial Zn2+ level is achieved to maintain mitochondrial homeostasis. Using Caenorhabditis elegans, we reveal here that a pair of mitochondrion-localized transporters controls the mitochondrial level of Zn2+. We demonstrate that SLC-30A9/ZnT9 is a mitochondrial Zn2+ exporter. Loss of SLC-30A9 leads to mitochondrial Zn2+ accumulation, which damages mitochondria, impairs animal development and shortens the life span. We further identify SLC-25A25/SCaMC-2 as an important regulator of mitochondrial Zn2+ import. Loss of SLC-25A25 suppresses the abnormal mitochondrial Zn2+ accumulation and defective mitochondrial structure and functions caused by loss of SLC-30A9. Moreover, we reveal that the endoplasmic reticulum contains the Zn2+ pool from which mitochondrial Zn2+ is imported. These findings establish the molecular basis for controlling the correct mitochondrial Zn2+ levels for normal mitochondrial structure and functions.

Research progress of copper transporter 1 in platinum-based chemotherapy / 中南大学学报(医学版)

Platinum drugs are widely used in the treatment of various solid tumors, but their resistance to platinum is the most significant obstacle to successful treatment. Copper transporter 1 (CTR1) is the specific transporter for copper, and it mainly locates at the plasma membrane and plays a role in pumping copper into the cell. CTR1 is also the major platinum influx transporter and plays a key role in platinum resistance. The expression, polymorphism, and degradation of CTR1 affect platinum resistance in tumors. Therefore, CTR1 may be a potential predictive biomarker of platinum resistance and a therapeutic target for overcoming platinum resistance.

ITPKC and SLC11A1 Gene Polymorphisms and Gene-Gene Interactions in Korean Patients with Kawasaki Disease

PURPOSE: Kawasaki disease (KD) is an acute systemic vasculitis. Both the etiology of KD and the erythema of Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) injection sites observed in the disease are poorly understood. We investigated the association between KD and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in two candidate genes: inositol 1,4,5-triphosphate 3-kinase (ITPKC), a well-studied KD-associated gene, and solute carrier 11a1 (SLC11A1), which is associated with the hypersensitive reaction to the BCG strain in Koreans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Associations between KD and SNPs in two genes were evaluated. Potential associations between BCG injection site erythema and SNPs in two genes were also evaluated. Gene-gene interactions between ITPKC and SLC11A1 in KD and BCG injection site erythema were also analyzed. RESULTS: Three tagging SNPs in ITPKC and five tagging SNPs in SLC11A1 were genotyped in 299 KD patients and 210 control children. SNP rs28493229 in ITPKC was associated with KD and coronary artery complications. SNP rs77624405 in SLC11A1 was associated with KD. Comparisons of KD patients with and without BCG injection site erythema revealed that SNP rs17235409 in SLC11A1 was associated with erythema; no erythema-associated SNPs in ITPKC were identified. Interactions between ITPKC rs28493229_GG and SLC11A1 rs17235409_GA and between ITPKC rs10420685_GG and SLC11A1 rs17235409_AA were strongly associated with BCG injection site erythema. CONCLUSION: This study identified several important polymorphisms in the ITPKC and SLC11A1 genes in Koreans. The genetic variants identified in this study affected KD and erythema of BCG injection sites independently and through gene-gene interactions. Also, the effects of the polymorphisms were age-dependent.

Role of the gene Slc11a1 and selected genotypes for minimum and maximum inflammatory reactivity in the process of alveolar bone healing in mice / Papel do gene Slc11a1 e de genótipos selecionados para mínima e máxima reatividade inflamatória no processo de reparo ósseo alveolar em camundongos

The process of alveolar bone healing can be influenced by several local and systemic factors, which include the immune system and healing related genes. However, the exact role of host inflammatory responsiveness and genetic background in bone healing process remains unclear. In this context, we evaluated the influence inflammation in alveolar bone healing taking advantage of mice strains genetically selected for maximum (AIRmax) or minimum (AIRmin) acute inflammatory response, as well AIR strains homozygous for RR/SS Slc11a1 genotypes. Experimental groups (N=5/time/group) comprised 8-week-old male or female AIRmax and AIRmin; and substrains AIRminRR, AIRminSS and AIRmaxRR and AIRmaxSS; submitted to extraction of upper right incisor and evaluated at 0, 3, 7, 14 and 21 days after upper incision extraction by micro-computed tomography (CT), histomorphometry, birefringence, immunohistochemistry and molecular (PCRArray) analysis. Initially, our results demonstrated that AIRmin mice presented an early increase (p<0.05) in bone volume, hyperdense regions, density of bone matrix and osteoblasts, increased (p<0.05) expressed of BMP4, BMP7 and RUNX2 when compared to AIRmax strain. AIRmin mice also presented lower counts of GR1+ and CD80+ cells, and higher counts of F4/80+ and CD206+ cells, in parallel with higher mRNA expression of CX3CL1, CCL5, CCR5 and ARG when compared to AIRmax animals. In late repair stages, the AIRmin strain presented a decreased (p<0.05) density of osteoclast and blood vessels than AIRmax, along lower RANKL and Catepk and higher PHEX and SOST mRNA expression, but the healing outcome at the endpoint was similar in AIRmin and AIRmax strains. When analyzed the effect of RR/SS Slc11a1 genotypes was evaluated in parallel with the influence AIRmin/AIRmax background, we initially observed that the AIRmax strain, associated with both RR and SS Slc11a1 genotypes, presented a more effective bone healing, characterized by increased (p<0.05) of bone volume and predominance of red fiber in analysis in contrast to AIRmin strains. AIRmaxRR presented increased (p<0.05) F4/80+ and decreased CD80+ e CD206+ cells count, while AIRmaxSS presented increased (p<0.05) GR1+, F4/80+ and CD80+ and decreased CD206+ cells. When the analysis was performed in order to address the influence Slc11a1 variants, AIRmaxSS strain presented a bone healing delay when compared to AIRmaxRR; characterized by decreased (p<0.05) of bone volume, trabecular number and red collagen fibers, increased (p<0.05) GR1+ and CD80+ and decreased F4/80+ and CD206+. Conversely, AIRminSS presented a more effective healing when compared with AIRminRR mice; characterized by increased (p<0.05) of bone volume, trabecular number/separation and red birefringence, increased GR1+ and decreased CD206+ cells count. In conclusion, while AIRmin and AIRmax strains presents a similar healing outcome at the endpoint, the early repair in AIRmin strain was associated with decreased presence of neutrophils and M1 macrophages, and increased M2 macrophages. Additionally, our while results showed that AIRmax inflammatory background was associated to a more effective bone healing process irrespective of the presence of RR/SS Slc11a1 genotypes, RR genotype favors the healing in AIRmax background and SS genotype was found to favor the healing in the AIRmin background.(AU)

O processo de reparo ósseo alveolar pode ser influenciado por vários fatores locais e sistêmicos, que incluem o sistema imunológico e os genes relacionados ao reparo. No entanto, o exato papel da resposta inflamatória do hospedeiro e genético background no processo de reparo ósseo ainda não está claro. Neste contexto, avaliamos a influência da inflamação no reparo óssea alveolar, em camundongos selecionadas geneticamente para uma resposta inflamatória aguda máxima (AIRmax) ou mínima (AIRmin), como também em camundongos AIR homozigoto para os alelos RR/SS do gene Slc11a1.Neste estudo foram utilizados camundongos machos e fêmeas (N=5/tempo/grupo), das linhagens selecionados para máxima e mínima (AIRmax e AIRmin) reação inflamatória, e também as sublinhagens AIRminRR, AIRminSS, AIRmaxRR e AIRmaxSS com idade aproximada de 8 semanas. Todos foram submetidos à extração do incisivo superior direito e avaliados nos períodos de 0, 3, 7, 14 e 21 dias pós extração, seguido pela análise tomografia computadorizada (CT), análise histomorfometria, análise de birrefringência, análise imuno-histoquímica e análise molecular (PCRArray). Inicialmente, nossos resultados demonstraram que a linhagem AIRmin, no período inicial, apresentou um aumento (p<0.05) no volume ósseo, nas regiões hiperdensas, na densidade de matriz óssea e osteoblastos, seguido pelo aumento (p<0.05) na expressão de BMP4, BMP7 e RUNX2 quando comparado a linhagem AIRmax. Camundongos AIRmin também apresentou uma menor contagem de células GR1+ e CD80+ e aumento da contagem de células F4/80+ e CD206+, em paralelo com aumento da expressão de mRNA de CX3CL1, CCL5, CCR5 e ARG quando comparado aos camundongos AIRmax. Nos períodos tardios, a linhagem AIRmin apresentou uma diminuição (p<0.05) na densidade de osteoclastos e vasos sanguíneos em comparação AIRmax, seguido por uma diminuição na expressão de mRNA de RANKL e Catepk e aumento de PHEX e SOST, mas o processo de reparo ósseo alveolar, no período final foi semelhante entres as linhagens AIRmin e AIRmax. Quando analisamos o efeito dos alelos RR/SS do gene Slc11a1 em paralelo com a influência do background AIRmin/AIRmax, nós inicialmente observamos que a linhagem AIRmax associada com ambos os alelos RR/SS do gene Slc11a1 apresentaram um processo de reparo mais efetivo, caracterizado pelo aumento (p<0.05) volume ósseo e predominância de fibras vermelhas em comparação com a linhagem AIRmin. Camundongos AIRmaxRR apresentaram aumento (p<0.05) na contagem de células F4/80+ e diminuição na contagem de células CD80+ e CD206+, enquanto, camundongos AIRmaxSS apresentou um aumento (p<0.05) na contagem de células GR1+, F4/80+, CD80+ e diminuição na contagem de células CD206+. Quando analisamos a influência dos alelos do gene Slc11a1, a linhagem AIRmaxSS apresentaram um atraso no reparo óssea quando comparado ao AIRmaxRR; caracterizado pela diminuição (p<0.05) do volume ósseo, número trabecular e fibras colágenas vermelhas, seguido pelo aumento (p<0.05) da contagem de células GR1+ e CD80+ e diminuição de células F4/80+ e CD206+. Por outro lado, camundongos AIRminSS apresentaram um reparo ósseo mais efetivo quando comparada com AIRminRR; caracterizada pelo aumento (p<0.05) do volume ósseo, número / separação trabecular e birrefringência das fibras colágenas no espectro vermelho, seguido pelo aumento da contagem de células GR1+ e diminuição das células CD206+. Diante disso, os nossos resultados demonstraram que as linhagens AIRmin e AIRmax apresentaram um processo de reparo ósseo alveolar semelhantes no período final do reparo, enquanto no reparo inicial a linhagem AIRmin estava associada com a diminuição de neutrófilos e macrófagos M1 e aumento dos macrófagos M2. Além disso, nossos resultados demonstraram que background AIRmax estava associado a um processo de reparo mais efetivo, independentemente da presença de genótipos RR/SS Slc11a1, o genótipo RR favorece o reparo no background AIRmax e o genótipo SS favoreceu a reparo no background AIRmin.(AU)

Analysis of clinical features and genetic mutations in a Chinese family affected with Menkes disease / 中华医学遗传学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To delineate the clinical features and potential mutation of the ATP7A gene in a family affected with Menkes disease.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Clinical data of a patient and his family members were analyzed. Sanger sequencing and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) assays were performed to detect the mutation of the ATP7A gene.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The patient was admitted at the age of 5 months due to severe epilepsy and marked delayed psychomotor development. Significantly light complexion, pudgy cheeks and sparse fuzzy wooly hair were noted. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging and angiography revealed cortical atrophy, leukoencephalopathy and circuitous of intracranial vessels. The plasma ceruloplasmin was decreased. MLPA has identified a deletion spanning exons 8 to 12 of the ATP7A gene. His mother was found to be a heterozygous carrier of the same mutation.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The clinical features and a novel mutation of the ATP7A gene of the family have been delineated.</p>

Analysis of SLC39A4 gene mutation in a patient with acrodermatitis enteropathica / 中华医学遗传学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To detect pathogenic mutation of the SLC39A4 gene in a male patient with acrodermatitis enteropathica (AE).</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Peripheral venous blood sample and clinical data from the patient and his parents were collected. One hundred unrelated healthy individuals were recruited as controls. All coding exons and flanking exon-intron sequences of the SLC39A4 gene were analyzed by PCR and direct sequencing.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The results revealed that the patient and his mother have both carried a novel frame-shift mutation c.1110InsG (p.Gly370GlyfsX47 to TGA) in exon 6. A novel nonsense mutation c.958C to T (p.Q320X) in exon 5 was also detected in the patient and his father and grandmother. This novel mutation was not detected in the unaffected family members and 100 unrelated healthy controls.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The novel frame-shift mutation c.1110InsG (p.Gly370GlyfsX47 to TGA) derived from the mother and nonsense mutation c.958C to T (p.Q320X) of the SLC39A4 gene derived from the father may underlie the disease in the patient.</p>

Association of the solute carrier family 11 member 1 gene polymorphisms with susceptibility to leprosy in a Brazilian sample

Natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1/solute carrier family 11 member 1 gene (Nramp1/Slc11a1) is a gene that controls the susceptibility of inbred mice to intracellular pathogens. Polymorphisms in the human Slc11a1/Nramp1 gene have been associated with host susceptibility to leprosy. This study has evaluated nine polymorphisms of the Slc11a1/Nramp1 gene [(GT)n, 274C/T, 469+14G/C, 577-18G/A, 823C/T, 1029 C/T, 1465-85G/A, 1703G/A, and 1729+55del4] in 86 leprosy patients (67 and 19 patients had the multibacillary and the paucibacillary clinical forms of the disease, respectively), and 239 healthy controls matched by age, gender, and ethnicity. The frequency of allele 2 of the (GT)n polymorphism was higher in leprosy patients [p = 0.04, odds ratio (OR) = 1.49], whereas the frequency of allele 3 was higher in the control group (p = 0.03; OR = 0.66). Patients carrying the 274T allele (p = 0.04; OR = 1.49) and TT homozygosis (p = 0.02; OR = 2.46), such as the 469+14C allele (p = 0.03; OR = 1.53) of the 274C/T and 469+14G/C polymorphisms, respectively, were more frequent in the leprosy group. The leprosy and control groups had similar frequency of the 577-18G/A, 823C/T, 1029C/T, 1465-85G/A, 1703G/A, and 1729+55del4 polymorphisms. The 274C/T polymorphism in exon 3 and the 469+14G/C polymorphism in intron 4 were associated with susceptibility to leprosy, while the allele 2 and 3 of the (GT)n polymorphism in the promoter region were associated with susceptibility and protection to leprosy, respectively.

Mutation analysis of 35 Wilson's disease pedigrees / 中华医学遗传学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To analyze the features of genetic mutations underlying Wilson's disease and provide prenatal and presymptomatic diagnosis.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>For 35 pedigrees affected with the disease, the exons and exon-intron boundaries of the ATP7B gene were amplified with polymerase chain reaction and subjected to Sanger sequencing. After the genotypes of parents of the probands were determined, prenatal diagnosis were performed through chorionic villus sampling.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The overall rate for mutation detection was 92.9%. A total of 24 distinct mutations were detected, which included 7 novel mutations, i.e., c.3871G>A(p.A1291T), c.2593_2594insGTCA, c.2790_2792delCAT, c.3661_3663delGGG, c.3700delG, c.4094_4097delCTGT, and IVS6+1G>A. Three mutations, including R778L (c.2333G>T)(45.7%), A874V (c.2621C>T)(7.1%) and P992L (c.2975C>T)(7.1%), were relatively common. Two presymptomatic patients were detected through familial screening, for whom treatment was initiated. Prenatal genetic diagnosis has verified three healthy fetuses and one carrier.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>In this study the most popular mutation ofATP7B gene is R778L and 7 novel mutations have been identified in this gene. For pedigrees of Wilson's disease, genetic counseling in addition with prenatal and presymptomatic diagnosis should be provided through Sanger sequencing and haplotype analysis.</p>

Oxidative Stress-Activated NHE1 Is Involved in High Glucose-Induced Apoptosis in Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells

PURPOSE: Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a prevalent chronic microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus involving disturbances in electrolytes and the acid-base balance caused by a disorder of glucose metabolism. NHE1 is a Na+/H+ exchanger responsible for keeping intracellular pH (pHi) balance and cell growth. Our study aimed to investigate roles of NHE1 in high glucose (HG)-induced apoptosis in renal tubular epithelial cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Renal epithelial tubular cell line HK-2 was cultured in medium containing 5 mM or 30 mM glucose. Then, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, NHE1 expression, and pHi were evaluated. NHE1 siRNA and inhibitor were used to evaluate its role in cell apoptosis. RESULTS: HG significantly increased cell apoptosis and the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and 8-OHdG (p<0.05). Meanwhile, we found that HG induced the expression of NHE1 and increased the pHi from 7.0 to 7.6 after 48 h of incubation. However, inhibiting NHE1 using its specific siRNA or antagonist DMA markedly reduced cell apoptosis stimulated by HG. In addition, suppressing cellular oxidative stress using antioxidants, such as glutathione and N-acetyl cysteine, significantly reduced the production of ROS, accompanied by a decrease in NHE1. We also found that activated cyclic GMP-Dependent Protein Kinase Type I (PKG) signaling promoted the production of ROS, which contributed to the regulation of NHE1 functions. CONCLUSION: Our study indicated that HG activates PKG signaling and elevates the production of ROS, which was responsible for the induction of NHE1 expression and dysfunction, as well as subsequent cell apoptosis, in renal tubular epithelial cells.

Contexto sociodemográfico de los homicidios en México D.F.: un análisis espacial / Sociodemographic context of homicide in Mexico City: a spatial analysis

OBJETIVO:Investigar el patrón de distribución espacial de la tasa de homicidios y su relación con las características sociodemográficas en las delegaciones de Benito Juárez, Coyoacán y Cuauhtémoc de la Ciudad de México en el año 2010. MÉTODOS: Estudio inferencial de corte transversal que usa métodos de análisis espacial para estudiar la asociación espacial de la tasa de homicidios y las características demográficas. La asociación espacial fue determinada a través del cociente de localización, análisis de regresión múltiple y el uso de la regresión geográficamente ponderada. RESULTADOS: Los homicidios muestran un patrón de localización heterogéneo con altas tasas en zonas con uso del suelo no residencial, con baja densidad de población y baja marginación. CONCLUSIONES: El uso de herramientas de análisis espacial son instrumentos poderosos para el diseño de políticas de seguridad pública preventiva y recreativa que busquen reducir la mortalidad por causas externas como homicidios.

OBJECTIVE:Investigate the spatial distribution pattern of the homicide rate and its relation to sociodemographic features in the Benito Juárez, Coyoacán, and Cuauhtémoc districts of Mexico City in 2010. METHODS: Inferential cross-sectional study that uses spatial analysis methods to study the spatial association of the homicide rate and demographic features. Spatial association was determined through the location quotient, multiple regression analysis, and the use of geographically weighted regression. RESULTS: Homicides show a heterogeneous location pattern with high rates in areas with non-residential land use, low population density, and low marginalization. CONCLUSIONS: Spatial analysis tools are powerful instruments for the design of prevention- and recreation-focused public safety policies that aim to reduce mortality from external causes such as homicides.

Menkes disease: importance of diagnosis with molecular analysis in the neonatal period / Doença de Menkes: importância do diagnóstico com análise molecular no período neonatal

Summary Menkes disease is a congenital disorder caused by changes in copper metabolism derived from mutations in the ATP7A gene. It is characterized by physical and neurological alterations. In the neonatal period, these alterations can be nonspecific, which makes early diagnosis a challenge. Diagnosis can be suspected when there are low levels of ceruloplasmin and serum copper. Molecular analysis confirms the diagnosis. Treatment is parenteral administration of copper histidine. We report a familial case with molecular confirmation. The proband had clinical and biochemical suspicious. Treatment with copper histidine was indicated, but initiated at the age of 2 months and 27 days only. He did not present improvements and died at 6 months. The mother became pregnant again, a male fetus was identified and copper histidine was manufactured during pregnancy. He was born healthy, biochemical markers were reduced and treatment was indicated. Molecular analysis was performed confirming mutation in both the mother and the proband, while the other son did not have mutation, so treatment was discontinued. We support the clinical relevance of molecular confirmation for the correct diagnosis and genetic counseling, once clinical findings in the neonatal period are nonspecific and early treatment with parenteral copper histidine must be indicated.

Resumo A doença de Menkes é causada por uma alteração genética no metabolismo do cobre, por mutações no gene ATP7A. Caracteriza-se por alterações neurológicas e no exame físico. No período neonatal, essas alterações podem ser inespecíficas, o que torna o diagnóstico precoce um desafio. O diagnóstico pode ser suspeitado quando há baixos níveis séricos de cobre e ceruloplasmina. A análise molecular confirma o diagnóstico, e o tratamento deve ser feito com histidina de cobre. Nós relatamos um caso familial de doença de Menkes. O probando apresentava quadro clínico e alterações bioquímicas compatíveis com a doença de Menkes, em consulta com 1 mês de vida. O tratamento foi indicado, mas apenas iniciado com 2 meses e 27 dias. Ele não apresentou melhora clínica e veio a óbito com 6 meses. A mãe teve uma nova gestação, foi identificado um feto do sexo masculino e foi solicitada a manipulação da histidina de cobre ainda durante a gestação. O bebê nasceu saudável, os marcadores bioquímicos estavam diminuídos e o tratamento com histidina de cobre foi indicado. Realizamos a análise molecular, que confirmou mutação no gene ATP7A na mãe e no probando; porém, o outro filho não apresentava mutação e o tratamento foi interrompido. Nós defendemos a importância clínica da confirmação molecular para o correto diagnóstico e o aconselhamento genético da doença de Menkes, uma vez que os achados clínicos e as alterações bioquímicas no período neonatal são inespecíficos, e o tratamento com histidina de cobre parenteral deve ser rapidamente instituído.

Limites e possibilidades do ensino à distância (EaD) na educação permanente em saúde: revisão integrativa / Limits and possibilities of distance learning in continuing education in health: integrative review

Trata-se de um estudo sobre o uso do ensino a distância (EaD) como uma estratégia de ensino na educação permanente em saúde (EPS), que teve como objetivo identificar e analisar os limites e possibilidades do uso da EaD na EPS. Estudo de revisão integrativa. O resultado aponta que a EaD é uma estratégia inovadora possível e potencial para a EPS, facilitando o desenvolvimento da aprendizagem dentro ou fora da instituição de saúde, porém é evidente a escassez de pesquisas na área. As limitações para a realização dos programas estão relacionadas à variável tempo, preparação para lidar com as tecnologias e importância do tutor como facilitador da aprendizagem. Conclui-se que o uso da EaD tem tido uma importante contribuição para o desenvolvimento dos recursos humanos em saúde, seja no processo de formação e/ou no processo contínuo de conhecimento.

This is a study on the use of distance learning (EaD, in Portuguese) as a teaching strategy in continuing health education (EPS, in Portuguese), which aimed to identify and analyze the limits and posibilities of using EaD in the EPS. Integrative Review Study. The result shows that EaD is an innovative, possible and potential strategy for EPS, facilitating the development of learning within or outside the health institution, although is evident the lack of research in the area. The limitations for the implementation of the programs are related to the time variable, preparation for dealing with the technologies and the importance of the tutor as a facilitator of learning. It concludes that the use of EaD has an important contribution to the development of human resources in health, is in the process of training and/or in the continuous knowledge process.

Current and Future Clinical Applications of Zinc Transporter-8 in Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To evaluate the utility of zinc transporter-8 (ZnT8) in the improvement of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) diagnosis and prediction, and to explore whether ZnT8 is a potential therapeutic target in T1DM.</p><p><b>DATA SOURCES</b>A search was conducted within the medical database PubMed for relevant articles published from 2001 to 2015. The search terms are as follows: "ZnT8," "type 1 diabetes," "latent autoimmune diabetes in adults," "type 2 diabetes," "islet autoantibodies," "zinc supplement," "T cells," "β cell," "immune therapy." We also searched the reference lists of selected articles.</p><p><b>STUDY SELECTION</b>English-language original articles and critical reviews concerning ZnT8 and the clinical applications of islet autoantibodies in diabetes were reviewed.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The basic function of ZnT8 is maintaining intracellular zinc homeostasis, which modulates the process of insulin biosynthesis, storage, and secretion. Autoantibodies against ZnT8 (ZnT8A) and ZnT8-specific T cells are the reliable biomarkers for the identification, stratification, and characterization of T1DM. Additionally, the results from the animal models and clinical trials have shown that ZnT8 is a diabetogenic antigen, suggesting the possibility of ZnT8-specific immunotherapy as an alternative for T1DM therapy.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>ZnT8 is a novel islet autoantigen with a widely potential for clinical applications in T1DM. However, before the large-scale clinical applications, there are still many problems to be solved.</p>

Association between type 2 diabetes in Uygur and polymorphisms of SLC30A8 and its interaction with smoking / 中华流行病学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To explore the relationship between the polymorphism of solute carrier family 30, member 8 (SLC30A8) gene and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Uyhgur in Xinjiang and further analyze the interaction between SLC30A8 gene polymorphism loci and smoking.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>A case control study, including 1 000 patients with T2DM and 1 010 non-diabetic controls, was conducted in Xinjiang. All the subjects were Uygur and the age difference between the two groups was within 3 years. Physical examination and blood biochemical detection were performed to obtain personal clinical parameters. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of SLC30A8 of all the subjects was tested by using MALDI-TOF. Statistical analyses were performed with SPSS 16.0. Bootstrap method was used to calculate 95% confidence intervals of RERI, AP and S.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>After adjusting BMI, SBP, TC, HDL-C and LDL-C, rs13266634 of SLC30A8 gene genotype frequency and allele frequency distribution had statistical differences (P<0.05). Rs13266634 of risk allele were C, OR was 1.194 (95% CI: 1.044-1.366). In addition, the data from genotype distribution analysis under different models showed that significant association between rs13266634 and T2DM in dominant model, OR was 1.640 (95% CI 1.072-2.510). The product of rs13266634 with the active smoking or passive smoking had no statistical significance (P>0.05) , indicating there were no multiplication interaction among them. Additive interactions index of RERI, AP and S and its 95% confidence interval of rs13266634 and active smoking, rs13266634 and passive smoking were 0.301 (-1.314-0.712), 0.204 (-0.854-0.446), 0.612 (0.186-2.013) and 0.125 (-0.805-1.055), 0.052 (-0.353-0.456), 1.096 (0.500-2.403) respectively, indicating there were no significant additive interaction among them.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Rs13666334 of SLC30A8 gene is associated with the susceptibility of T2DM in Uygur, and its protective genotype might be TT. Passive smoking might increase the risk of T2DM in Uygur.</p>

A study of divalent metal transporter 1 and ferroportin 1 in brain of rats with manganese-induced parkinsonism / 中华劳动卫生职业病杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To study the changes in the expression of divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) and ferroportin 1 (FP1) in the substantia nigra (SN) of rats with manganese-induced parkinsonism.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Eighty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups. Rats in the control group were injected intraperitoneally with saline solution. Rats in the low-dose, medium-dose, and high-dose groups were injected intraperitoneally with 5, 15, and 20 mg/kg MnC12 solution, respectively, for 16 weeks. Three behavioral tests were performed at the 16th week. The concentration of Mn2+ in the SN was determined by inductively coupled plasma-atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES), and the positive expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was measured by immunohistochemical staining to determine whether rats with manganese-induced parkinsonism were successfully produced. The expression of DMT1 and FP1 in SN was measured by immunohistochemical staining and fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Rats with manganese-induced parkinsonism were successfully produced using the above method. Compared with that in the control group, the concentrations of Mn2+ in the SN of rats exposed to 5, 15, and 20 mg/kg Mn2+ were significantly higher (1.72?0.33 vs 0.56 ± 0.20 µg/g, P<0.01; 2.92±0.77 vs 0.56±0.20 µg/g, P<0.01; 5.65±1.60 vs 0.56±0.20 µg/g, P<0.01). The mean ODs of TH-positive cells in the SN of rats exposed to 5, 15, and 20 mg/kg Mn+ were significantly lower than that in the control group (0.054±0.008 vs 0.109±0.019, P<0.01; 0.016±0.004 vs 0.109±0.019, P<0.01; 0.003±0.001 vs 0.109±0.019, P<0.01). Compared with that in the control group, the mean optical densities (ODs) of DMT1-positive cells in the SN of rats exposed to 15, and 20 mg/kg Mn2+ were significantly higher (0.062±0.004 vs 0.015±0.007, P<0.01; 0.116±0.064 vs 0.015±0.007, P<0.01). The mean ODs of FP1-positive cells in the SN of rats exposed to 5, 15, and 20 mg/kg Mn2+ were significantly lower than that in the control group (0.092±0.011 vs 0.306±0.081, P<0.01; 0.048±0.008 vs 0.306±0.081, P<0.01; 0.008±0.002 vs 0.306±0.081, P< 0.01). Rats exposed to 15 and 20 mg/kg Mn2+ had significantly higher expression of DMT1 mRNA in the SN than those in the control group (0.052±0.0126 vs 0.001±0.0004, P<0.05; 0.124±0.0299 vs 0.001±0.0004, P<0.05). However, rats exposed to 5, 15, and 20 mg/kg Mn2 had significantly lower expression of FP1 mRNA in the SN than those in the control group (0.059±0.0076 vs 0.162±0.0463, P<0.05; 0.033±0.0094 vs 0.162±0.0463, P< 0.05; 0.002±0.0007 vs 0.162±0.0463, P<0.05).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>The increased expression of DMT1 and reduced expression of FP1 may be involved in the processes of Mn2+ accumulation in the SN and dopaminergic neuron loss in rats with manganese-induced parkinsonism.</p>

Currently Clinical Views on Genetics of Wilson's Disease / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>The objective of this study was to review the research on clinical genetics of Wilson's disease (WD).</p><p><b>DATA SOURCES</b>We searched documents from PubMed and Wanfang databases both in English and Chinese up to 2014 using the keywords WD in combination with genetic, ATP7B gene, gene mutation, genotype, phenotype.</p><p><b>STUDY SELECTION</b>Publications about the ATP7B gene and protein function associated with clinical features were selected.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Wilson's disease, also named hepatolenticular degeneration, is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by abnormal copper metabolism caused by mutations to the copper-transporting gene ATP7B. Decreased biliary copper excretion and reduced incorporation of copper into apoceruloplasmin caused by defunctionalization of ATP7B protein lead to accumulation of copper in many tissues and organs, including liver, brain, and cornea, finally resulting in liver disease and extrapyramidal symptoms. It is the most common genetic neurological disorder in the onset of adolescents, second to muscular dystrophy in China. Early diagnosis and medical therapy are of great significance for improving the prognosis of WD patients. However, diagnosis of this disease is usually difficult because of its complicated phenotypes. In the last 10 years, an increasing number of clinical studies have used molecular genetics techniques. Improved diagnosis and prediction of the progression of this disease at the molecular level will aid in the development of more individualized and effective interventions, which is a key to transition from molecular genetic research to the clinical study.</p><p><b>CONCLUSIONS</b>Clinical genetics studies are necessary to understand the mechanism underlying WD at the molecular level from the genotype to the phenotype. Clinical genetics research benefits newly emerging medical treatments including stem cell transplantation and gene therapy for WD patients.</p>

Influence of Iron Supplementation on DMT1 (IRE)-induced Transport of Lead by Brain Barrier Systems in vivo / 生物医学与环境科学（英文）

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To investigate the potential involvement of DMT1 (IRE) protein in the brain vascular system in vivo during Pb exposure.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>Three groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to Pb in drinking water, among which two groups were concurrently administered by oral gavage once every other day as the low and high Fe treatment group, respectively, for 6 weeks. At the same time, the group only supplied with high Fe was also set as a reference. The animals were decapitated, then brain capillary-rich fraction was isolate from cerebral cortex. Western blot method was used to identify protein expression, and RT-PCR to detect the change of the mRNA.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>Pb exposure significantly increased Pb concentrations in cerebral cortex. Low Fe dose significantly reduced the cortex Pb levels, However, high Fe dose increased the cortex Pb levels. Interestingly, changes of DMT1 (IRE) protein in brain capillary-rich fraction were highly related to the Pb level, but those of DMT1 (IRE) mRNA were not significantly different. Moreover, the consistent changes in the levels of p-ERK1/2 or IRP1 with the changes in the levels of DMT1 (IRE).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>These results suggest that Pb is transported into the brain through DMT1 (IRE), and the ERK MAPK pathway is involved in DMT1 (IRE)-mediated transport regulation in brain vascular system in vivo.</p>

The changes of gene expression of iron transporters for duodenal iron uptake and export in diet-induced obese mice / 中华预防医学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>This study aims to determine the gene expression changes of iron transporters-divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) and ferroportin 1 (Fpn1) in the duodenal tissue of diet-induced obese mice.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into normal control (NC) and obesity model (OM) group, 6 in each, and fed on conventional and high-fat diet respectively for 14 weeks by table of random number. Then the DMT1 and Fpn1 mRNA contents in duodenal tissues of the animals were measured by Real-time PCR method, and the protein expression levels were analyzed by Western blot test.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>The Real-time PCR detection results showed that, compared with the NC group for which the mRNA expression level was defined as 1.0, the Fpn1 mRNA expression in OM group (0.58±0.11) was reduced significantly (t = 6.71, P = 0.014), whereas the relative expression level of DMT1 mRNA in OM group (0.89±0.26) showed no obvious alteration (t = 2.01, P = 0.122). Western blot results showed that the relative protein expression levels of Fpn1 in OM and NC group were 0.32±0.06 and 0.65±0.19, respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (t = 5.37, P = 0.026). The DMT1 protein relative abundance was 0.88±0.21 in OM group and 0.92±0.17 in NC group, and the difference has no statistical significance (t = 1.84, P = 0.185).</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>Fpn1 gene expression is inhibited in the duodenum of diet-induced obesity mouse while DMT1 expression keeps unchanged, and this implies that decreased iron export from enterocytes into circulation might be responsible for the impaired iron absorption in obesity.</p>

The role of serum hepcidin and ferroportin1 in placenta on iron transfer from mother to fetus / 中华血液学杂志

<p><b>OBJECTIVE</b>To detect the concentration of serum hepcidin and the mRNA expression level of ferroportin1 (FPN1) in the placenta membrane from full term pregnant women with different degree of iron deficiency, and explore their roles for iron transport in placental.</p><p><b>METHODS</b>The concentration of HGB, serum iron (SI) and serum ferritin (SF) of mothers and infants were detected in 55 full term pregnant women and neonates. The expression level of FPN1 mRNA in placental was detected by the RT-PCR technique. The concentration of serum hepcidin was detected by double antibody sandwich biotin avidin enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The serum hepcidin level and the FPN1 mRNA expression in the full term placenta from different maternal iron status were compared in three groups.</p><p><b>RESULTS</b>There were no significant differences in the cord blood HGB, SI and SF of newborns from pregnant women with different iron status (P>0.05). The concentration of serum hepcidin of pregnant women among normal, iron deficiency and mild iron deficiency anemia were (193.637±52.219), (176.523±43.875), and (147.623±37.768) μg/L respectively, with statistical significance (F=3.872, P=0.027). The expression levels of FPN1 mRNA among three groups were 0.462±0.077, 0.507±0.074 and 0.551±0.104 respectively, with statistical significance (F=4.767, P=0.013). A negative correlation between maternal serum hepcidin and placental FPN1 mRNA (r=-0.383, P=0.004) was identified.</p><p><b>CONCLUSION</b>There were no significant differences in the iron status of corresponding newborns from pregnant women with different iron status. With the severity of maternal iron deficiency, the concentration of serum hepcidin was down-regulated, while the expression of FPN1 mRNA in placenta was up-regulated.</p>

A young boy with elevated aminotransferases in physical examination--Two novel missense mutations associated with Wilson's disease were found / 中国当代儿科杂志

A 3-year-old boy had abnormal liver function, which was found in physical examination, for 5 months before admission. He had no symptoms such as anorexia, poor appetite, and jaundice, had normal growth and development, and showed no hepatosplenomegaly. Laboratory examination revealed significantly reduced ceruloplasmin (35 mg/L), as well as negative hepatotropic virus, cytomegalovirus, and Epstein-Barr virus. There were normal muscle enzymes, blood glucose, and blood ammonia and negative liver-specific autoantibodies. The boy had negative K-F ring and normal 24-hour urine copper (0.56 μmol/L). The ATP7B gene testing for the boy, his sister, and their parents detected two novel missense mutations in the boy and his sister, i.e., compound heterozygous mutations in exon 7 (c.2075T>C, p.L692P) and exon 13 (c.3044T>C, p.L1015P), which were inherited from their father and mother, respectively. Wilson's disease was confirmed by genetic diagnosis in the boy and his sister. The boy and his sister were given a low-copper diet. The boy was administered with penicillamine for decoppering and zinc supplement against copper uptake. His sister received zinc supplement alone because no clinical symptoms were observed. The boy showed normal liver function in the reexamination after 3 months of treatment.