The Genetic Drivers of Juvenile, Young, and Early-Onset Parkinson's Disease in India.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies have advanced our understanding of the genetic drivers of Parkinson's disease (PD). Rare variants in more than 20 genes are considered causal for PD, and the latest PD genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified 90 independent risk loci. However, there remains a gap in our understanding of PD genetics outside of the European populations in which the vast majority of these studies were focused. OBJECTIVE: The aim was to identify genetic risk factors for PD in a South Asian population. METHODS: A total of 674 PD subjects predominantly with age of onset (AoO) ≤50 years (encompassing juvenile, young, or early-onset PD) were recruited from 10 specialty movement disorder centers across India over a 2-year period; 1376 control subjects were selected from the reference population GenomeAsia, Phase 2. We performed various case-only and case-control genetic analyses for PD diagnosis and AoO. RESULTS: A genome-wide significant signal for PD diagnosis was identified in the SNCA region, strongly colocalizing with SNCA region signal from European PD GWAS. PD cases with pathogenic mutations in PD genes exhibited, on average, lower PD polygenic risk scores than PD cases lacking any PD gene mutations. Gene burden studies of rare, predicted deleterious variants identified BSN, encoding the presynaptic protein Bassoon that has been previously associated with neurodegenerative disease. CONCLUSIONS: This study constitutes the largest genetic investigation of PD in a South Asian population to date. Future work should seek to expand sample numbers in this population to enable improved statistical power to detect PD genes in this understudied group. © 2023 Denali Therapeutics and The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.

Impact of Treatment Sequencing on Overall Survival in Patients with Transplant-Ineligible Newly Diagnosed Myeloma.

BACKGROUND: Because patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (NDMM) do not always receive any treatment beyond first-line (1L) therapy, it is imperative that patients receive the best treatment in the 1L setting. However, the optimal initial treatment remains to be identified. We performed a clinical simulation to assess potential outcomes with different treatment sequences. PATIENTS AND METHODS: We used a partitioned survival model to compare overall survival (OS) with (1) daratumumab, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (D-Rd) in 1L followed by a pomalidomide- or carfilzomib-based regimen in second line (2L) versus (2) bortezomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (VRd) in 1L followed by a daratumumab-based regimen in 2L versus (3) lenalidomide and dexamethasone (Rd) in 1L followed by a daratumumab-based regimen in 2L. Probabilities of transition between health states (1L, 2L+, and death) were based on published clinical data and real-world data from the Flatiron Health database. The proportion of patients discontinuing treatment after 1L (attrition rates) in the base case was estimated with a binomial logistic model using data from the MAIA trial. RESULTS: Using D-Rd in 1L conferred a longer median OS compared with delaying daratumumab-based regimens until 2L after VRd or Rd, respectively (8.9 [95% CrI 7.58-10.42] vs. 6.92 [5.92-8.33] or 5.75 [4.50-7.25] years). Results of scenario analyses were consistent with the base case. CONCLUSION: Our simulation, which incorporates clinically representative treatments and attrition rates, supports the use of D-Rd as initial therapy, rather than delaying the use of daratumumab until later lines of therapy, in patients with transplant-ineligible NDMM.

A US real-world study of treatment patterns and outcomes in localized or locally advanced prostate cancer patients.

PURPOSE: Men with localized or locally advanced prostate cancer (LPC/LAPC) are at risk of progression after radiotherapy (RT) or radical prostatectomy (RP). Using real-world data, we evaluated patient characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes in LPC/LAPC. METHODS: Optum claims and electronic health records (EHR) data from January 2010 to December 2021 were queried for men with LPC/LAPC who received primary RT, RP, or androgen deprivation therapy alone within 180 days after diagnosis. Survival outcomes were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Kaplan-Meier curves. Real-world overall survival (rwOS) was compared in patients with and without evidence of disease (i.e., disease recurrence, metastasis, diagnosis of castration-resistant PC) at defined time points. RESULTS: 61,772 and 62,361 men in claims and EHR cohorts met the inclusion criteria. Median follow-up was 719 and 901 days, respectively. Most men received primary RT (51.0% claims, 35.0% EHR) or RP (39.4% claims, 53.8% EHR). Survival was greatest among men treated with RP, followed by RT. Adjusted for age and comorbidity, rwOS was shorter among men with evidence of disease within 1, 3, 4, and 5 years after primary treatment than those without at the same time points. CONCLUSION: Real-world claims and EHR data show that survival among men with LPC/LAPC differs by primary treatment and time point of disease recurrence thereafter. Poor outcomes in men with LPC/LAPC who progress early indicate an unmet medical need for more effective primary treatment. If validated for surrogacy, no evidence of disease at specific time points could represent an intermediate efficacy endpoint in future trials.

Defining the care delivery value chain and mapping the patient journey in rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic disease that impacts patients' quality of life. Sophisticated organization of care delivery drives quality improvement. Therefore, the study objective was establishing a validated process map of the care cycle for RA patients. Hence, increasing transparency and optimizing care delivery and identifying areas of improvement. To map the RA care cycle, the care delivery value chain (CDVC) approach was used as framework to document activities and resources systematically. A mixed method study was conducted where quantitative data on activities were collected from health records and unstructured interviews with medical staff were held. Consequently, the process map was separately validated in a consensus meeting with a delegation of the medical staff and patient advisory board. At the start of the care cycle, the focus is predominantly on defining the treat-to-target strategy and examining disease activity. Towards the monitoring phase, tapering medication and managing the disease through patient-reported outcome measures are becoming increasingly important. Although patient's functioning, quality of care and patient's evaluation of received care are monitored, reflection of CDVC and engaging patients in the evaluation process resulted in improvement actions on outcome and process level. Mapping the RA care cycle following a systematic approach, provides insight and transparency in delivered activities, involved resources and the engagement of patients and caregivers at multiple levels, contributing to a system facilitating value-based care delivery. The CDVC framework and applied methodology is recommended in other conditions. Future research will focus at assigning outcomes and costs to activities and evaluating interventions to explore patient value.

Comparative effectiveness of guselkumab in psoriatic arthritis: results from systematic literature review and network meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The efficacy of the novel interleukin (IL)-23p19 inhibitor guselkumab for psoriatic arthritis (PsA) has recently been demonstrated in two phase 3 trials (DISCOVER-1 & -2) but has not been evaluated vs other targeted therapies for PsA. The objective was to compare guselkumab to targeted therapies for PsA for safety and joint and skin efficacy through network meta-analysis (NMA). METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted in January 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials. Bayesian NMAs were performed to compare treatments on American College of Rheumatology (ACR) 20/50/70 response, mean change from baseline in van der Heijde-Sharp (vdH-S) score, Psoriasis Area Severity Index (PASI) 75/90/100 response, adverse events (AEs) and serious adverse events (SAEs). RESULTS: Twenty-six phase 3 studies evaluating 13 targeted therapies for PsA were included. For ACR 20 response, guselkumab 100 mg every 8 weeks (Q8W) was comparable to IL-17A inhibitors and subcutaneous tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. Similar findings were observed for ACR 50 and 70. For vdH-S score, guselkumab Q8W was comparable to other agents except intravenous TNF therapies. Results for PASI 75 and PASI 90 response suggested guselkumab Q8W was better than most other agents. For PASI 100, guselkumab Q8W was comparable to other active agents. For AEs and SAEs, guselkumab Q8W ranked highly but comparative conclusions were uncertain. Similar results were observed for all outcomes for guselkumab 100 mg every four weeks. CONCLUSIONS: In this NMA, guselkumab demonstrated favorable arthritis efficacy comparable to IL-17A and subcutaneous TNF inhibitors while offering better PASI response relative to many other treatments.

Phenotypic variability in distal acidification defects associated with WDR72 mutations.

BACKGROUND: Distal renal tubular acidosis (RTA) is typically caused by defects in ATP6V0A4, ATP6V1B1, and SLC4A1, accounting for 60-80% of patients. Genes recently implicated include FOXI1, ATP6V1C2, and WDR72, of which WDR72 is associated with dental enamel defects. METHODS: We describe 4 patients, from three unrelated consanguineous families, with RTA and amelogenesis imperfecta. Distal tubular acidification was evaluated by furosemide-fludrocortisone test, urine-to-blood PCO2 gradient and fractional excretion of bicarbonate. Exome sequencing was performed using a panel of genes implicated in human disease. RESULTS: Patients had polyuria, hypokalemia, hypercalciuria, and nephrocalcinosis, but metabolic acidosis varied in severity. Although all patients acidified urine to pH < 5.3 during furosemide-fludrocortisone test, urine-to-blood PCO2 gradient was < 20 mmHg during bicarbonate loading. All patients had transient proximal tubular dysfunction with urinary losses of phosphate and beta-2-microglobulin, and generalized aminoaciduria. Homozygous pathogenic truncating variants in WDR72 was detected in all probands. CONCLUSION: Patients with WDR72 mutations show mild rate-dependent distal RTA with variable metabolic acidosis, and intact ability to acidify the urine on provocative testing. Concomitant proximal tubular dysfunction may be present. Mutations in WDR72 should be considered in patients with suspected distal RTA, especially if associated with dental defects.

NGS-based expanded carrier screening for genetic disorders in North Indian population reveals unexpected results - a pilot study.

BACKGROUND: To determine the carrier frequency and pathogenic variants of common genetic disorders in the north Indian population by using next generation sequencing (NGS). METHODS: After pre-test counselling, 200 unrelated individuals (including 88 couples) were screened for pathogenic variants in 88 genes by NGS technology. The variants were classified as per American College of Medical Genetics criteria. Pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants were subjected to thorough literature-based curation in addition to the regular filters. Variants of unknown significance were not reported. Individuals were counselled explaining the implications of the results, and cascade screening was advised when necessary. RESULTS: Of the 200 participants, 52 (26%) were found to be carrier of one or more disorders. Twelve individuals were identified to be carriers for congenital deafness, giving a carrier frequency of one in 17 for one of the four genes tested (SLC26A4, GJB2, TMPRSS3 and TMC1 in decreasing order). Nine individuals were observed to be carriers for cystic fibrosis, with a frequency of one in 22. Three individuals were detected to be carriers for Pompe disease (frequency one in 67). None of the 88 couples screened were found to be carriers for the same disorder. The pathogenic variants observed in many disorders (such as deafness, cystic fibrosis, Pompe disease, Canavan disease, primary hyperoxaluria, junctional epidermolysis bullosa, galactosemia, medium chain acyl CoA deficiency etc.) were different from those commonly observed in the West. CONCLUSION: A higher carrier frequency for genetic deafness, cystic fibrosis and Pompe disease was unexpected, and contrary to the generally held view about their prevalence in Asian Indians. In spite of the small sample size, this study would suggest that population-based carrier screening panels for India would differ from those in the West, and need to be selected with due care. Testing should comprise the study of all the coding exons with its boundaries in the genes through NGS, as all the variants are not well characterized. Only study of entire coding regions in the genes will detect carriers with adequate efficiency, in order to reduce the burden of genetic disorders in India and other resource poor countries.

Frontline treatment patterns and attrition rates by subsequent lines of therapy in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma.

BACKGROUND: For patients with multiple myeloma (MM), each additional line of therapy (LOT) is associated with lower response rates, shorter treatment duration and treatment-free intervals, and increased rates of toxicities and comorbidities. Here, we examine frontline treatment patterns, and attrition rates by LOT among newly diagnosed MM (NDMM) patients in the United States who were eligible or ineligible for autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT). METHODS: Data were identified from three US patient-level databases collectively covering the period January 2000 to September 2018. Patients had an index diagnosis of MM on or after January 1, 2007, medical and prescription insurance coverage at diagnosis, a 1-year look-back period prior to the index diagnosis, no prior malignancies in the 1-year period before index diagnosis, and had received ≥1 LOT. RESULTS: Among patients who did not receive ASCT (non-transplant; n = 22,062), 12,557 (57%) received only 1 LOT and 9505 (43%) received > 1 LOT. Patients receiving only 1 LOT were significantly older, had higher mean Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) scores, and higher incidences of comorbidities. Among the 2763 patients receiving ASCT, 2184 received > 1 LOT, and 579 (21%) received only 1 LOT (ie, ASCT was the last treatment). 1682 (61%) patients received induction therapy as frontline treatment, of whom 187 (11%) also received consolidation therapy. The latter group was younger than those who received only induction therapy, had lower mean CCI scores, and comparable or lower incidences of selected comorbidities. The most common frontline therapy for non-transplant and transplant-eligible patients was bortezomib/dexamethasone and bortezomib/lenalidomide/dexamethasone, respectively. Attrition rates across all LOTs were high for non-transplant patients (range, 43-57%) and transplant patients (range, 21-37%). Treatment duration decreased by LOT for non-transplant patients and was consistent across LOTs for transplant patients. CONCLUSIONS: In this analysis, a substantial proportion of patients with NDMM who received frontline therapy did not appear to receive a subsequent LOT. These high attrition rates underscore the need to use the most optimal treatment regimens upfront rather than reserving them for later LOTs in which the clinical benefit may decrease.

Herring Milt and Herring Milt Protein Hydrolysate Are Equally Effective in Improving Insulin Sensitivity and Pancreatic Beta-Cell Function in Diet-Induced Obese- and Insulin-Resistant Mice.

Although genetic predisposition influences the onset and progression of insulin resistance and diabetes, dietary nutrients are critical. In general, protein is beneficial relative to carbohydrate and fat but dependent on protein source. Our recent study demonstrated that 70% replacement of dietary casein protein with the equivalent quantity of protein derived from herring milt protein hydrolysate (HMPH; herring milt with proteins being enzymatically hydrolyzed) significantly improved insulin resistance and glucose homeostasis in high-fat diet-induced obese mice. As production of protein hydrolysate increases the cost of the product, it is important to determine whether a simply dried and ground herring milt product possesses similar benefits. Therefore, the current study was conducted to investigate the effect of herring milt dry powder (HMDP) on glucose control and the associated metabolic phenotypes and further to compare its efficacy with HMPH. Male C57BL/6J mice on a high-fat diet for 7 weeks were randomized based on body weight and blood glucose into three groups. One group continued on the high-fat diet and was used as the insulin-resistant/diabetic control and the other two groups were given the high-fat diet modified to have 70% of casein protein being replaced with the same amount of protein from HMDP or HMPH. A group of mice on a low-fat diet all the time was used as the normal control. The results demonstrated that mice on the high-fat diet increased weight gain and showed higher blood concentrations of glucose, insulin, and leptin, as well as impaired glucose tolerance and pancreatic ß-cell function relative to those on the normal control diet. In comparison with the high-fat diet, the replacement of 70% dietary casein protein with the same amount of HMDP or HMPH protein decreased weight gain and significantly improved the aforementioned biomarkers, insulin sensitivity or resistance, and ß-cell function. The HMDP and HMPH showed similar effects on every parameter except blood lipids where HMDP decreased total cholesterol and non-HDL-cholesterol levels while the effect of HMPH was not significant. The results demonstrate that substituting 70% of dietary casein protein with the equivalent amount of HMDP or HMPH protein protects against obesity and diabetes, and HMDP is also beneficial to cholesterol homeostasis.

Systematic review of civilian intravascular ballistic embolism reports during the last 30 years.

BACKGROUND: Intravascular ballistic embolization is a rare complication of missile injury. Because of its rarity, much remains to be known about its presentation, pathophysiology, complications, and management. In this study, we analyze case reports of ballistic embolization in the last 30 years and available cases from our institution to determine the likely patient, the nature of the embolization, the possible complications, and a general management strategy. METHODS: A PubMed search was performed in search of missile embolization cases from 1988 to 2018 in the English language, including only cases of intravascular emboli. Cases resulting from combat and explosive devices were excluded. In addition, five cases from our institution were included in the analysis. RESULTS: A total of 261 cases were analyzed. The most common presentation was that of a young man (reflecting the demographics of those sustaining gunshot wound injuries) with injury to the anterior torso from a single gunshot wound. Venous entry was most common, most often through large-caliber vessels. There was roughly equal involvement of the right and left circulation. Left circulation emboli were frequently symptomatic, with ischemia being the most frequent sequela. In contrast, a right circulation embolus was rarely associated with significant complications. CONCLUSIONS: Despite its rarity, ballistic embolization should be considered in gunshot injury with known large-vessel injury when an exit wound is not identified. In particular, signs of ischemia distant from the injury site warrant timely investigation to maximize tissue salvageability. We present a management strategy model for consideration.

Herring Milt Protein Hydrolysate Improves Insulin Resistance in High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obese Male C57BL/6J Mice.

Protein consumption influences glucose homeostasis, but the effect depends on the type and origin of proteins ingested. The present study was designed to determine the effect of herring milt protein hydrolysate (HPH) on insulin function and glucose metabolism in a mouse model of diet-induced obesity. Male C57BL/6J mice were pretreated with a low-fat diet or a high-fat diet for 6 weeks. Mice on the high-fat diet were divided into four groups where one group continued on the high-fat diet and the other three groups were fed a modified high-fat diet where 15%, 35%, and 70%, respectively, of casein was replaced with an equal percentage of protein derived from HPH. After 10 weeks, mice that continued on the high-fat diet showed significant increases in body weight, blood glucose, insulin, and leptin levels and exhibited impaired oral glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, and pancreatic ß-cell dysfunction. Compared to mice fed the high-fat diet, the 70% replacement of dietary casein with HPH protein reduced body weight, semi-fasting blood glucose, fasting blood glucose, insulin, leptin, and cholesterol levels and improved glucose tolerance, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and homeostasis model assessment of ß-cell function (HOMA-ß) indices. The 35% replacement of dietary casein with HPH protein showed moderate effects, while the 15% replacement of dietary casein with HPH protein had no effects. This is the first study demonstrating that replacing dietary casein with the same amount of protein derived from HPH can prevent high-fat-diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance.

Efficient Killing of Planktonic and Biofilm-Embedded Coagulase-Negative Staphylococci by Bactericidal Protein P128.

Coagulase-negative staphylococci (CoNS) are the major causative agents of foreign-body-related infections, including catheter-related bloodstream infections. Because of the involvement of biofilms, foreign-body-related infections are difficult to treat. P128, a chimeric recombinant phage-derived ectolysin, has been shown to possess bactericidal activity on strains of Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA). We tested the killing potential of P128 on three clinically significant species of CoNS, S. epidermidis, S. haemolyticus, and S. lugdunensis, under a variety of physiological conditions representing growing and nongrowing states. The MIC90 and minimum bactericidal concentration at which 90% of strains tested are killed (MBC90) of P128 on 62 clinical strains of CoNS were found to be 16 and 32 µg/ml (0.58 and 1.16 µM), respectively, demonstrating the bactericidal nature of P128 on CoNS strains. Serum showed a potentiating effect on P128 inhibition, as indicated by 4- to 32-fold lower MIC values observed in serum. P128 caused a rapid loss of viability in all CoNS strains tested. Persisters of CoNS that were enriched in the presence of vancomycin or daptomycin were killed by P128 at 1× the MIC in a rapid manner. Low concentrations of P128 caused a 2- to 5-log reduction in CFU in stationary-phase or poorly metabolizing CoNS cultures. P128 at low concentrations eliminated CoNS biofilms in microtiter plates and on the surface of catheters. Combinations of P128 and standard-of-care (SoC) antibiotics were highly synergistic in inhibiting growth in preformed biofilms. Potent activity on planktonic cells, persisters, and biofilms of CoNS suggests that P128 is a promising candidate for the clinical development of treatments for foreign-body-related and other CoNS infections.

Antibiofilm Activity and Synergistic Inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus Biofilms by Bactericidal Protein P128 in Combination with Antibiotics.

P128 is an antistaphylococcal protein, comprising a cell wall-degrading enzymatic region and a Staphylococcus-specific binding region, which possesses specific and potent bactericidal activity against sensitive and drug-resistant strains of Staphylococcus aureus To explore P128's ability to kill S. aureus in a range of environments relevant to clinical infection, we investigated the anti-S. aureus activity of P128 alone and in combination with standard-of-care antibiotics on planktonic and biofilm-embedded cells. P128 was found to have potent antibiofilm activity on preformed S. aureus biofilms as detected by CFU reduction and a colorimetric minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration (MBIC) assay. Scanning electron microscopic images of biofilms formed on the surfaces of microtiter plates and on catheters showed that P128 at low concentrations could destroy the biofilm structure and lyse the cells. When it was tested in combination with antibiotics which are known to be poor inhibitors of S. aureus in biofilms, such as vancomycin, gentamicin, ciprofloxacin, linezolid, and daptomycin, P128 showed highly synergistic antibiofilm activity that resulted in much reduced MBIC values for P128 and the individual antibiotics. The synergistic effect was seen for both sensitive and resistant isolates of S. aureus Additionally, in an in vitro mixed-biofilm model mimicking the wound infection environment, P128 was able to prevent biofilm formation by virtue of its anti-Staphylococcus activity. The potent S. aureus biofilm-inhibiting activity of P128 both alone and in combination with antibiotics is an encouraging sign for the development of P128 for treatment of complicated S. aureus infections involving biofilms.

Does disease activity add to functional disability in estimation of utility for rheumatoid arthritis patients on biologic treatment?

OBJECTIVE: Treatment in general is mostly directly aimed at disease activity, and measures such as the DAS28 might therefore present important additional information. Our aim was to develop and validate a model that uses a combination of disease activity (DAS28) and HAQs to estimate EuroQoL 5-dimension scale (EQ5D) utilities. METHODS: Longitudinal data from a cohort study in RA patients from the Utrecht Rheumatoid Arthritis Cohort study Group (Stichting Reumaonderzoek Utrecht) who started treatment with a biologic drug were used for mapping and validation. All 702 observations, including DAS28, HAQ and EQ5D assessed at the same time points, were used. The observations were randomly divided into a subset for development of the model (n = 428 observations) and a subset for validation (n = 274). A stepwise multivariable regression analysis was used to test the association of DAS28 (components) and HAQ (domains) with EQ5D. Model performance was assessed using the explained variance (R(2)) and root mean square errors. Observed and predicted utility scores were compared to check for under- or overestimation of the scores. Finally, the performance of the model was compared with published mapping models. RESULTS: Lower DAS28 score and HAQ items dressing and grooming, arising, eating, walking and activities were associated with higher EQ5D scores. The final model had an explained variance of 0.35 and a lower root mean square error as compared with other models tested. The agreement between predicted and observed scores was fair. CONCLUSION: HAQ components estimate EQ5D better than total HAQ. Adding DAS28 to HAQ components does not result in better utility estimations.

Personalized biological treatment for rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review with a focus on clinical applicability.

OBJECTIVES: To review studies that address prediction of response to biologic treatment in RA and to explore the clinical utility of the studied (bio)markers. METHODS: A search for relevant articles was performed in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases. Studies that presented predictive values or in which these could be calculated were selected. The added value was determined by the added value on prior probability for each (bio)marker. Only an increase/decrease in chance of response ⩾15% was considered clinically relevant, whereas in oncology values >25% are common. RESULTS: Of the 57 eligible studies, 14 (bio)markers were studied in more than one cohort and an overview of the added predictive value of each marker is presented. Of the replicated predictors, none consistently showed an increase/decrease in probability of response ⩾15%. However, positivity of RF and ACPA in case of rituximab and the presence of the TNF-α promoter 308 GG genotype for TNF inhibitor therapy were consistently predictive, yet low in added predictive value. Besides these, 65 (bio)markers studied once showed remarkably high (but not validated) predictive values. CONCLUSION: We were unable to address clinically useful baseline (bio)markers for use in individually tailored treatment. Some predictors are consistently predictive, yet low in added predictive value, while several others are promising but await replication. The challenge now is to design studies to validate all explored and promising findings individually and in combination to make these (bio)markers relevant to clinical practice.

Spectrum of phenotype and genotype of congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in Asian Indians.

BACKGROUND: Congenital isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is caused due to defect in GnRH neuronal development, migration and action. Although genetic aetiology of IHH is increasingly being studied, Asian Indian data on phenotypic spectrum and genetic basis are scarce. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the phenotypic and genotypic spectrum of IHH in Asian Indian subjects. DESIGN, SETTING AND SUBJECTS: A cohort of 135 IHH probands were characterized phenotypically for reproductive and nonreproductive features and screened for rare sequence variations (RSVs) in five genes KAL1, FGFR1, FGF8, GNRHR and KISS1R. RESULT: Of 135 probands [56 normosmic IHH (nIHH) and 79 Kallmann syndrome (KS)], 20 were familial cases. KS group had more male dominance (M:F ratio of 8:1) as compared to nIHH group (M:F ratio of 1·5:1). Complete absence of puberty was more prevalent in KS probands (81% in KS vs 46% in nIHH). The prevalence of MRI abnormalities was more in anosmic group (92·8%) as compared to hyposmic (37·5%) and normosmic groups (15·4%). No particular nonreproductive phenotypic predominance was seen in any group. Genotyping revealed rare sequence variation (RSV) detection rate of 15·5% in five genes studied: (KAL1 - 4·4%, FGFR1 - 4·4%, GNRHR - 6·7%, oligogenicity - 1·5%). Prevalence of RSV was more common in familial cases (35%) as compared to sporadic (12·2%). GNRHR RSV p.C279Y (not reported in patients of ethnicities other than south Asians) was recurring in four unrelated patients. CONCLUSION: In our cohort, 60% were KS with majority of males and a severe reproductive phenotype as against nIHH. Contribution of the genetic burden for the five genes studied was 15·5%. RSV p.C279Y in GNRHR may have a founder effect originating from south Asia. This study provides a model for molecular and phenotypic representation of Asian Indian subjects with IHH.

Bacteriophage-derived CHAP domain protein, P128, kills Staphylococcus cells by cleaving interpeptide cross-bridge of peptidoglycan.

P128 is an anti-staphylococcal protein consisting of the Staphylococcus aureus phage-K-derived tail-associated muralytic enzyme (TAME) catalytic domain (Lys16) fused with the cell-wall-binding SH3b domain of lysostaphin. In order to understand the mechanism of action and emergence of resistance to P128, we isolated mutants of Staphylococcus spp., including meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), resistant to P128. In addition to P128, the mutants also showed resistance to Lys16, the catalytic domain of P128. The mutants showed loss of fitness as shown by reduced rate of growth in vitro. One of the mutants tested was found to show reduced virulence in animal models of S. aureus septicaemia suggesting loss of fitness in vivo as well. Analysis of the antibiotic sensitivity pattern showed that the mutants derived from MRSA strains had become sensitive to meticillin and other ß-lactams. Interestingly, the mutant cells were resistant to the lytic action of phage K, although the phage was able to adsorb to these cells. Sequencing of the femA gene of three P128-resistant mutants showed either a truncation or deletion in femA, suggesting that improper cross-bridge formation in S. aureus could be causing resistance to P128. Using glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion peptides as substrates it was found that both P128 and Lys16 were capable of cleaving a pentaglycine sequence, suggesting that P128 might be killing S. aureus by cleaving the pentaglycine cross-bridge of peptidoglycan. Moreover, peptides corresponding to the reported cross-bridge of Staphylococcus haemolyticus (GGSGG, AGSGG), which were not cleaved by lysostaphin, were cleaved efficiently by P128. This was also reflected in high sensitivity of S. haemolyticus to P128. This showed that in spite of sharing a common mechanism of action with lysostaphin, P128 has unique properties, which allow it to act on certain lysostaphin-resistant Staphylococcus strains.

Results of comprehensive genetic testing in patients presenting to a multidisciplinary inherited heart disease clinic in India.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to analyze the results of comprehensive genetic testing in patients presenting to a dedicated multidisciplinary inherited heart disease clinic in India. METHODS: All patients presenting to our clinic from August 2017 to October 2023 with a suspected inherited heart disease and consenting for genetic testing were included. The probands were grouped into familial cardiomyopathies namely hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) and peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), channelopathies namely congenital long QT syndrome (LQTS) and Brugada syndrome (BrS), and heritable connective tissue disorder namely Marfan Syndrome (MFS). Next generation sequencing (NGS) was used, and pre-test and post-test counseling were provided to probands and cascade screening offered to relatives. RESULTS: Mean age of the subjects (n=77; 48 probands, 29 relatives) was 43±18 years, 68% male and 44% symptomatic, with 36 HCM, 3 DCM, 3 ACM, 1 PPCM, 3 LQTS, 1 BrS and 1 MFS probands. The diagnostic yield of NGS-based genetic testing was 31%; variants of uncertain significance (VUS) were identified in 54%; and 15% were genotype-negative. Twenty-nine relatives from 18 families with HCM (n=12), DCM (n=3), ACM (n=2) and MFS (n=1) underwent genetic testing. The genotype positive probands / relatives and VUS carriers with strong disease phenotype and / or high risk variant were advised periodic follow-up; the remaining probands / relatives were discharged from further clinical surveillance. CONCLUSIONS: Genetic testing guides treatment and follow-up of patients with inherited heart diseases and should be carried out in dedicated multidisciplinary clinics with expertise for counseling and cascade screening of family members.

Viruses and type 1 diabetes: a new look at an old story.

Epidemiological data suggesting an infectious origin of diabetes pre-date the discovery of insulin; indeed it was the variation in mortality rates from diabetes that led Gunderson to hypothesise that a virus with 'selective affinity for the pancreas' may cause 'acute diabetes' in youth (1). He noted an increase in deaths from diabetes in young people aged 10-20 yr in Norway from 1900 to 1921 following epidemics of parotitis, with a lag time of 3-4 yr between infection and death. In Norway, Denmark,France, and America, the increase in deaths from diabetes exceeded the expected number based on population growth; lending further weight to the proposal that diabetes was caused by infection. Since that time,a large body of epidemiological, clinical and experimental research, in humans, cellular and animal models, has provided further insights into the contribution of infections in the development of type 1 diabetes.Epidemiological evidence for a viral aetiology of diabetes A substantial body of epidemiological data point to a significant contribution of the environment in the development of type 1 diabetes,although much of the evidence is not specific to viruses per se. These data include rising rates of type 1 diabetes in both developed and developing countries in recent decades (2, 3) and a reduced contribution of high risk human leucocyte antigen (HLA) genotypes (4, 5), indicating that non-genetic factors are important. Similarly, the pairwise concordance between monozygotic twins for type 1 diabetes of less than 40%, and the observation that the incidence of diabetes in migrant children reflects that of their adopted country (6, 7), provide circumstantial evidence that environmental agents contribute to the disease. Space-time clustering in the presentation of type 1 diabetes (8-10) and clustering of births in children who subsequently develop diabetes (11) support a direct role for infections in the initiation and acceleration of the disease process.

Treatment Response to Diphenylcyclopropenone in Patients with Alopecia Totalis/Universalis.

Introduction: Alopecia totalis (AT) and Alopecia universalis (AU) are forms of Alopecia areata (AA) which represent the strongest predictor of poor prognosis since spontaneous regrowth is <10%. Topical immunotherapy agent, diphenylcyclopropenone (DPCP) has shown clinical efficacy with limited side effects in severe forms of AA. However, its specific role in AT/AU characterized by complete hair loss over the scalp can help highlight the efficacy of the drug with fewer confounders. Methodology: Data were collected from 18 patients diagnosed with AT/AU and treated with topical immunotherapy with DPCP as per protocol by Happle et al. Baseline Severity of Alopecia Tool (SALT) score and subclass was recorded. In the case of AU, baseline body hair loss score was also recorded. Patients were reassessed after 6 months of treatment in terms of change in SALT score and hair regrowth was assessed using the Global Assessment Score. The side effects during treatment were also assessed and recorded. Results: Eighteen patients of whom eleven (61.1%) were diagnosed as AU and seven (38.9%) as AT were treated. The mean age was 21.6, with a male: female ratio of 3:2. The comorbidities noted were atopy in six (33.3%), atopy and hypothyroidism in one (5.5%), Down's syndrome in two (11.1%), and hypothyroidism alone in one (5.5%) patient. The mean duration of disease at the time of presentation was 3 years and all patients had remained refractory to various other modalities of treatment. All patients had a baseline SALT score of 100 corresponding to S5. After 6 months of treatment, 27.7% of patients did not show any response (SALT score S5), 16.6% had a score of S4, 11.1% had a score of S3, 11.1% had a score of S2, 22.2% had a score of S1, and 11.1% had a score of S0. On assessing improvement in body hair loss score, 36.3% of patients showed no improvement, 36.3% showed partial improvement, and 27.2% of patients showed complete body hair regrowth. About 55.5% of patients developed notable side effects that included severe local reactions, cervical lymphadenopathy, acne and pigmentation at the site of application as well as untreated sites. Conclusion: The AT/AU subtypes of AA, was amenable to treatment with contact immunotherapeutic agent DPCP with a >75% hair regrowth in 33.3% of patients. The castling phenomenon was seen in 63.6% of AU patients. The adverse effects noted were not severe enough to deter treatment.