First Findings and Molecular Data of Phlebotomus mascittii (Diptera: Psychodidae) in the Cantabrian Cornice (Northern Spain).

Phlebotomus (Transphlebotomus) mascittii Grassi, 1908 (Diptera: Psychodidae) has been found in several European countries. In Spain, sporadic records were reported in the early '80s in Catalonia (Northeast Spain), and it was never detected again. Recent entomological surveys carried out between 2004 and 2020 revealed the presence of several specimens of P. mascittii in Spain. The species identification was confirmed by both morphological and molecular analyses. The analyzed specimens belonged to the haplotype (COI_2) defined by one polymorphic site compared to other European specimens. Phlebotomus mascittii was found in low population densities in rural areas associated with livestock farms and in an urban cemetery during the summer season. This study provides the first records of this species in various localities along the Cantabrian cornice (Northern Spain) and represents its westernmost observation in the Palearctic region. The implications of the finding of this uncommon species are discussed at different levels, with emphasis on its suspected role in the transmission of leishmaniosis.

Particularidades genéticas y bioquímicas de la hipercolesterolemia familiar en el suroeste de la Península Ibérica / Genetics and biochemistry of familial hypercholesterolemia in Southwest of the Iberian Peninsula

Hasta el momento, la mayor parte de los casos de hipercolesterolemia familiar (60-80%) se atribuyen a variantes patogénicas en el gen LDLR. Solo un 1-5% de los casos se produce por variantes en el gen APOB y un 0-3% por variantes en el gen PCSK9. Existen gran variedad en mutaciones patogénicas conocidas del gen LDLR mientras que, para las que afectan al gen APOB, la de mayor incidencia es p.Arg3527Gln, descrita predominantemente en poblaciones de Centroeuropa y América del Norte. En la Península Ibérica el gen predominante afectado es el del receptor de LDL, similar al resto del mundo, siendo la afectación del gen APOB descrita en individuos del noroeste y anecdótica en el resto del territorio. Analizamos genéticamente la población asistida en el primer año de una consulta de lípidos del suroeste de España con puntuación≥6 puntos de las clínicas de lípidos holandesas y describimos los hallazgos genéticos, bioquímicos y clínicos. Los primeros hallazgos muestran indicios de una posible mayor prevalencia de pacientes con mutación en el gen APOB respecto a otros territorios. Encontramos hechos históricos que darían una posible explicación a este hecho, apoyando así dicha presunción.(AU)

So far, most cases of hypercholesterolaemia (60-80%) are attributed to pathogenic variants in the LDLR gene. Only 1-5% of cases are caused by variants in the APOB gene, and 0-3% by variants in the PCSK9 gene. There is a large variety in known pathogenic mutations of the LDLR gene, while for those affecting the APOB gene, the highest incidence is p.Arg3527Gln, described predominantly in Central European and North American populations. In the Iberian Peninsula the predominant gene affected is that of the LDL receptor, similar to the rest of the world, with the involvement of the APOB gene being described in individuals from the northwest, and anecdotal in the rest of the territory. A genetics analysis was performed on the population attending the first year of a lipid clinic in southwestern Spain with a 6-point score from the Dutch lipid clinics. The genetic, biochemical and clinical findings are described. The first findings show indications of a possible higher prevalence of patients with mutation in the APOB gene compared to other territories. Historical evidence is presented that could give a possible explanation to this, thus supporting the assumption.(AU)

Polimorfismos de nucleótido simple (PNSs) del gen MC1R en alpacas negras y marrones / Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the MC1R gene in black and brown alpacas

Resumen En alpacas los fenotipos del color de vellón tienen diferentes terminologías que induce a una confusión dentro del color marrón y sus tonalidades, el que requiere de una mejor descripción y cuantificación. En consecuencia los objetivos del estudio fueron cuantificar el color de fibra e identificar los PNSs informativos del gen MC1R (receptor 1 de melanocortina) en alpacas marrones y negras. Un fenotipo vicuña (n=14) y cuatro fenotipos de alpacas (n=79), marrón claro, marrón oscuro, marrón-negro y negro fueron evaluados por colorimetría. El vellón de vicuña mostró mayor luminosidad (47.74) e intensidad de color (24.33) respecto a las alpacas marrones. Los valores obtenidos de CIE L*a*b* (luminosidad e intensidad) sugieren valores bajos en alpacas eumelánicas y altos en alpacas feomelánicas. En vicuña y alpaca la secuencia codificante del gen MC1R tiene un solo exón de 954 pb, las vicuñas no mostraron la deleción (c.224_227del). Sin embargo, esta deleción se ha observado en los tres fenotipos de alpaca (marrón claro, marrón oscuro y negro), al igual que los cinco PNSs no sinónimos que ya fueron descritos en otras poblaciones, c.82A>G, c.259G>A, c.376G>A, c.587T>C, c.901C>T (p.T28A, p.M87V, p.G126S, p.F196S y p.R301C). Para las dos especies, se identificaron un total de ocho haplotipos definidos por los cinco PNSs. No se observaron asociaciones entre los fenotipos de color y los PNSs: c.259G>A, c.376G>A y c.901C>T (p>0.05), probablemente debido a la influencia de otros genes como el ASIP en la expresión del color. Nuestros resultados, así como los estudios previos evidenciaron regiones altamente conservadas en la secuencia codificante del gen MC1R.

Abstract In alpacas color fleece phenotypes have different terminologies that induces confusion within the brown color and its shades, it requires a better description and quantification. Consequently, the aims of the study were to quantify the color of fiber and identify the informational SNPs in the MC1R gene (melanocortin 1 receptor) in brown and black alpacas. A vicuña phenotype (n=14) and four alpaca phenotypes (n=79), light brown, dark brown, brown-black and black were evaluated by colorimetry. The vicuña fleece showed greater lightness (47.74) and color intensity (24.33) compared to brown alpacas. The CIE L*a*b* values (lightness and intensity) suggest low values in eumelanic alpacas and high in pheomelanic alpacas. In vicuña and alpaca, the coding sequence of the MC1R gene has a single exon of 954 bp, in vicuñas the deletion (c.224_227del) was not observed. However, this deletion was observed in three alpaca phenotypes (light brown, dark brown and black), as well as the five non-synonymous SNPs described in other populations, c.82A>G, c.259G>A, c.376G>A, c.587T>C, c.901C>T (p.T28A, p.M87V, p.G126S, p.F196S, and p.R301C). Eight haplotypes defined by the five SNPs were identified in both species. The associations between color phenotypes and SNPs were not observed (p>0.05), probably due to the influence of other genes such as ASIP on color expression. Our results as well as previous studies showed highly conserved regions in the coding sequence of the MC1R gene.

Genetics and biochemistry of familial hypercholesterolemia in Southwest of the Iberian Peninsula. / Particularidades genéticas y bioquímicas de la hipercolesterolemia familiar en el suroeste de la Península Ibérica.

So far, most cases of hypercholesterolaemia (60-80%) are attributed to pathogenic variants in the LDLR gene. Only 1-5% of cases are caused by variants in the APOB gene, and 0-3% by variants in the PCSK9 gene. There is a large variety in known pathogenic mutations of the LDLR gene, while for those affecting the APOB gene, the highest incidence is p.Arg3527Gln, described predominantly in Central European and North American populations. In the Iberian Peninsula the predominant gene affected is that of the LDL receptor, similar to the rest of the world, with the involvement of the APOB gene being described in individuals from the northwest, and anecdotal in the rest of the territory. A genetics analysis was performed on the population attending the first year of a lipid clinic in southwestern Spain with a 6-point score from the Dutch lipid clinics. The genetic, biochemical and clinical findings are described. The first findings show indications of a possible higher prevalence of patients with mutation in the APOB gene compared to other territories. Historical evidence is presented that could give a possible explanation to this, thus supporting the assumption.

Identificación bioinformática de Polimorfismos de Nucleótido Simple (PNSs) en genes candidatos para las características de la fibra en alpacas (Vicugna pacos) / Bioinformatic identification of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes for fiber characteristics in alpacas (Vicugna pacos)

El objetivo fue identificar y predecir la ubicación de polimorfismos de nucleótido simple (PNSs) en genes relacionados al crecimiento de la fibra. Se realizó el estudio con un total de 31 genes de queratina (KRT9, KRT12, KRT13, KRT14, KRT16, KRT18, KRT20, KRT25, KRT1, KRT3, KRT5, KRT6a, KRT6b, KRT6c, KRT7, KRT8, KRT71, KRT80, KRT31, KRT32, KIRT40, KRT81, KRT82, KRT10, KRT15, KRT17, KRT19, KRT2, KRT4, KRT79 y KRT83) asociados con las características de lana, fibra y pelo en ovinos, cabras y humanos respectivamente, cuyas secuencias fueron encontradas en la base de datos del National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Mediante el uso de bases de datos y herramientas bioinformáticas como el Conserved Domains Database, Spling, y MegaBlast se logró ubicar secuencias únicas para cada gen. Estas secuencias fueron comparadas con los genomas de referencia Vicugna_pacos-2.0.2 y Vi_pacos_V1.0. Se identificaron 48 PNSs ubicados en las regiones intrónicas y exónicas de 22 genes. No se localizaron PNSs en o alrededor de los genes KRT10, KRT15, KRT17, KRT19, KRT2, KRT4, KRT6b, KRT6c y KRT79. El análisis comparativo entre las cuatro especies estudiadas permitió observar que los genes KRT81, KRT6b y KRT6c no están presentes en los genomas de referencia de alpaca, los genes KRT31, KRT14, KRT81, KRT83, KRT6b y KRT6c no están presentes en el genoma de referencia de ovino y los genes KRT31, KRT13, KRT81, KRT83, KRT6b y KRT6c no están presentes en el genoma de referencia de cabra.

The objective was to identify and predict the location of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes related to fiber growth. The study was carried out with 31 keratin genes (KRT9, KRT12, KRT13, KRT14, KRT16, KRT18, KRT20, KRT25, KRT1, KRT3, KRT5, KRT6a, KRT6b, KRT6c, KRT7, KRT8, KRT71, KRT80, KRT31, KRT32, KIRT40, KRT81, KRT82, KRT10, KRT15, KRT17, KRT19, KRT2, KRT4, KRT79 y KRT83) associated with wool, fiber and hair characteristics in sheep, goat and human, respectively. These gene sequences were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. Using databases and bioinformatics tools such as the Conserved Domains database, Spling and Megablast, unique sequences for each gene were identified. These sequences were compared to the reference genomes: Vicugna_pacos-2.0.2 and Vi_pacos_V1.0 to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In this manner, 48 SNPs were identified and localized in both intronic and exonic regions of 22 genes. We did not identify SNPs for KRT10, KRT15, KRT17, KRT19, KRT2, KRT4, KRT6b, KRT6c and KRT79. Comparative analysis among the four species studied allow to identify that sequences for KRT81, KRT6b and KRT6c genes are not present in the alpaca reference genomes. Similarly, genes KRT31, KRT14, KRT81, KRT83, KRT6b and KRT6c are not present in the ovine reference genome and, genes KRT31, KRT13, KRT81, KRT83, KRT6b and KRT6c are not present in the goat reference genome.

Estudio de la relación de la ancestría genética con el riesgo al cáncer colorrectal en Colombia / Study of the relationship between genetic ancestry and colorrectal cáncer risk in Colombia

Introducción. El cáncer colorrectal es una carga para la salud pública en Colombia y el mundo. Estudios de asociación genética han identificado regiones cromosómicas asociadas a esta enfermedad, mostrando riesgo variable entre poblaciones, debido a la historia demográfica y la ancestría genética. Objetivo. Estudiar el riesgo que aportan 20 marcadores al cáncer colorrectal en Colombia, empleando 955 casos y 972 controles del consorcio CHIBCHA, analizando conjuntamente el efecto de la ancestría genética global y local. Metodología. Las muestras se genotipificaron usando microarreglos Axyom Affymetrix LAT y CUSTOME, para obtener los genotipos genómicos globales, incluyendo 20 SNPs de riesgo. Los análisis estadísticos se realizaron en PLINK (asociaciones), ADMIXTURE (ancestría global), Elai (ancestría local) y R (modelos logísticos). Resultados. Once regiones cromosómicas resultaron asociadas presentando ORs entre 1.14 y 1.41 (p<0.05): 18q21.1, 19q13.11, 10p14, 14q.2.2, 20p12.3, 8q23.3, 6p21.2, 15q13.3 y 8q24.21. Una mayor ancestría europea se asoció con el riesgo a nivel global (OR=3.016, IC 95%:1.162-7.894, p=0.00325), y a nivel cromosómico local se detectaron las regiones 6q23.2 (ORajustado=1.378, IC95%: 1.202-1.580, Pajustado=4.2e-6) y 4p13 (ORajustado=1.301, IC95%:1.137-1.489; Pajustado=0.00013). Conclusiones. La ancestría podría considerarse un factor en la explicación de la susceptibilidad en Colombia, indicando que la mezcla genética de origen amerindio y europeo, influye en la estructura poblacional y explicaría las diferencias en la incidencia del CCR entre poblaciones latinas y europeas.

Introduction: Colorectal cancer is a public health burden in the world and Colombia. Recent genome wide association studies have identified chromosomal regions associated with the disease, depicting variable risk between populations, owing to the demographic history and genetic ancestry. Objective: We aimed to study the colorectal cancer risk in Colombia provided for 20 genetic markers, by using 955 cases and 972 controls from the CHIBCHA consortium, in the context of global and local genetic ancestry. Methodology: The samples were genotyped using Axyom Affymetrix LAT and CUSTOME array in order to obtain the global genome genotypes including 20 risk SNPs. Statistical analysis was performed in PLINK (associations), ADMIXTURE (global ancestry), Elai (local ancestry) and R language (logistic models). Results: Eleven chromosomal regions were associated with ORs ranging between 1.14-1.41 (p<0.05): 18q21.1, 19q13.11, 10p14, 14q.2.2, 20p12.3, 8q23.3, 6p21.2, 15q13.3 y 8q24.21. On average, a higher global European ancestry was associated with colorectal cancer risk (OR=3.016, IC 95%:1.162-7.894, p=0.00325). At the local chromosomal level two regions presented a significant increment of European ancestry 6q23.2 (OR adjusted=1.378, CI95%: 1.202-1.580, p adjusted =4.2e-6) and 4p13 (OR adjusted =1.301, CI95%:1.137-1.489; p adjusted =0.00013). Conclusions: Genetic ancestry can be considered as a relevant factor for the colorectal cancer susceptibility in Colombia. Both Native American and European ancestry are accounting for the most part of population structure in the sample we studied, which could explain the differences for the colorectal cancer incidence between Latin American and European populations.

Análisis de haplotipos de la tortuga cabezona Caretta caretta (Testudines: Cheloniidae) en dos playas del Caribe colombiano / Analysis of haplotypes of the loggerhead turtle, Caretta caretta (Testudines: Cheloniidae), on two beaches of the Colombian Caribbean / Análise de haplotipos da tartaruga cabeçona, Caretta caretta (Testudines: Cheloniidae) em duas praias do Caribe colombiano

Resumen Introducción. La tortuga Caretta caretta habita los mares tropicales y subtropicales. Es una especie en vía de extinción que anida las playas en Colombia y hace extensas migraciones. Los haplotipos mitocondriales de esta tortuga se han utilizado para estudios de genética poblacional, filogeografía y estado de las especies con el objetivo de desarrollar planes de conservación de la especie. Objetivo. Identificar haplotipos mitocondriales en tortugas cabezonas anidantes del Caribe colombiano. Materiales y Métodos. Se recolectaron muestras de sangre periférica de esta especie en dos sitios del Caribe colombiano: Don Diego (playa de anidación) y la Isla San Martin de Pajarales (localidad de alimentación). El ADN total fue extraído a partir de las células sanguíneas, y utilizado para amplificar por PCR la región control mitocondrial (398 pb). Estos productos fueron purificados y secuenciados. Se realizó un alineamiento básico buscando regiones de similitud local entre las secuencias obtenidas y las descritas previamente para la especie. Se hicieron análisis filogenéticos utilizando los criterios de máxima parsimonia (MP) y máxima verosimilitud (ML). Resultados. Se identificaron tres haplotipos, CC-A1 y CC-A2 comúnmente encontrados en poblaciones reproductivas de México, el Mediterráneo y el sudeste de Estados Unidos, y un nuevo haplotipo CC-SM1 en la playa Don Diego (Magdalena). Los árboles filogenéticos muestran relación de una porción de los individuos anidantes y de forrajeo de las agregaciones del Caribe colombiano con las súper-agregaciones del Atlántico y el Mediterráneo, sugiriendo que estas podrían ser algunas de las fuentes importantes de individuos presentes en Colombia. Conclusiones. Es necesario estudiar una muestra más grande para poder confirmar hipótesis planteadas. Se identificó un nuevo haplotipo denominado CC-SM1. Este es el primer estudio sobre haplotipos mitocondriales de C. caretta realizado en Colombia.

Abstract Introduction. The Caretta caretta turtle inhabits tropical and subtropical seas. It is an endangered species that nests on Colombian beaches and makes long migrations. The mitochondrial haplotypes of this turtle have been used for population genetics, phylogeography and species status studies with the aim of developing species conservation plans. Objective. Identify mitochondrial haplotypes in nesting loggerhead turtles from the Colombian Caribbean. Materials and Methods. Peripheral blood samples from this species were collected in two sites of the Colombian Caribbean: Don Diego (nesting beach) and San Martin de Pajarales island (feeding ground). The total DNA was extracted from blood cells and used to amplify the mitochondrial control region by PCR (398 bp). These products were purified and sequenced. A basic alignment was performed looking for local similarity regions between the sequences obtained and those previously described for the species. Phylogenetic analyses were conducted by using the maximum parsimony (MP) and maximum likelihood (ML) criteria. Results. Three haplotypes were identified: CC-A1 and CC-A2, which are commonly found in breeding populations in Mexico, the Mediterranean and southeast U.S.; and a new haplotype, CC-SM1, on the Don Diego beach (Magdalena). The phylogenic trees show a relationship between a portion of the nesting and feeding individuals from the Colombian Caribbean aggregations and the Atlantic and Mediterranean super-aggregations, suggesting that these could be some of the important sources for individuals inhabiting Colombia. Conclusions. It is necessary to study a larger sample to be able to confirm the proposed hypotheses. A new haplotype called CC-SM1was identified. This is the first study on C. caretta mitochondrial haplotypes conducted in Colombia.

Resumo Introdução. A tartaruga Caretta caretta habita os mares tropicais e subtropicais. É uma espécie em via de extinção que enraíza as praias na Colômbia e faz extensas migrações. Os haplotipos mitocondriais desta tartaruga se há utilizado para estudos de genética populacional, fílogeografía e estado das espécies com o objetivo de desenvolver planos de conservação da espécie. Objetivo. Identificar haplotipos mitocondriais em tartarugas cabeçonas enraizada no Caribe colombiano. Materiais e Métodos. Se coletaram amostras de sangue periférica desta espécie em dois lugares do Caribe colombiano: Don Diego (praia de enraizamento) e a Ilha San Martin de Pajarales (localidade de alimentação). O DNA total foi extraído a partir das células sanguíneas, e utilizado para amplificar por PCR a região controle mitocondrial (398 pb). Estes produtos foram purificados e sequenciados. Se realizou um alinhamento básico buscando regiões de semelhança local entre as sequências obtidas e as descritas previamente para a espécie. Se fez análise filogenéticos utilizando os critérios de máxima parcimônia (MP) e máxima verossimilitude (ML). Resultados. Se identificaram três haplotipos, CC-A1 e CC-A2 comumente encontrados nas populações reprodutivas do México, o Mediterráneo e o sudeste de Estados Unidos, e um novo haplotipo CC-SM1 na praia Don Diego (Magdalena). As árvores filogenéticos mostram relação de uma porção dos indivíduos enraizados e de forragem das agregações do Caribe colombiano com as super-agregações do Atlântico e o Mediterrâneo, sugerindo que estas poderiam ser algumas das fontes importantes de indivíduos presentes na Colômbia. Conclusões. É necessário estudar uma amostra maior para poder confirmar hipótese proposta. Se identificou um novo haplotipo denominado CC-SM1. Este é o primeiro estudo sobre haplotipos mitocondriais de C. caretta realizado na Colômbia.

Trasplante haploidéntico de progenitores hematopoyéticos: una necesidad / Haploidentical hematopoietic transplant: a need

El trasplante de células progenitoras hematopoyéticas es una terapia potencialmente curativa para pacientes con diversas enfermedades; pero solo el 25 - 30 por ciento de estos cuenta con un hermano compatible para el sistema de antígenos leucocitarios humanos. Hace algunos años se ha desarrollado el trasplante con un solo haplotipo idéntico; el que está disponible para la mayoría de los pacientes y se ha llamado trasplante haploidéntico. Se han realizado diferentes intentos para depletar la médula de linfocitos T antes de ser infundida, debido principalmente, a la frecuencia de enfermedad injerto contra huésped en este tipo de trasplante; lo que se asocia con una mayor falla primaria de injerto y a una lenta recuperación inmune. En la actualidad se realizan varios métodos que permiten sortear estos inconvenientes, por lo que este trasplante surge como una alternativa importante para los que no tienen un hermano totalmente compatible y tiene como ventajas que permite escoger entre varios candidatos y evitar la pérdida de tiempo en búsquedas de donantes no familiares(AU)

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is a potentially curative therapy for patients with various diseases, but only 25- 30 percent have a compatible donor for human leukocyte antigen. A few years ago it has been developed a transplant with only one identical haplotype; which it is available for most patients, and has been called haploidentical transplantation. There have been attempts to deplete the marrow of T lymphocytes before being infused, mainly due to the presence graft-versus-host disease, and this can lead to primary graft failure and a slow immune recovery. At present, several methods to overcome these drawbacks are made, so this transplantation emerges as an important alternative for those who do not have a fully matched sibling and has the advantage that allows choosing between several candidates and prevents loss of time searching unrelated donor(AU)

Is HLA the cause of the high incidence of type 1 diabetes in the Canary Islands? Results from the Type 1 Diabetes Genetics Consortium (T1DGC).

INTRODUCTION: Incidence of childhood-onset type 1 diabetes mellitus in the Canary Islands is the highest reported so far in Spain, and among the highest worldwide. The HLA region accounts for approximately half the genetic risk of type 1 diabetes. Our aim was to assess distribution of high-risk and protective HLA haplotypes in the Canarian families included in the T1DGC, as compared to the rest of Spain. METHODS: The T1DGC study, an international project to study the genetics and pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, enrolled more than 3000 families with type 1 diabetes worldwide. Spain provided 149 of these families, of whom 42 were from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. HLA was genotyped centrally using a PCR-based, sequence-specific oligonucleotide probe system. Haplotypes were reconstructed using the deterministic algorithm alleHap in the R programming environment. Based on prior T1DGC results in Caucasian population, haplotypes DRB1*0405-DQA1*0301-DQB1*0302, DRB1*0401-DQA1*0301-DQB1*0302, DRB1*0301-DQA1*0501-DQB1*0201, DRB1*0402-DQA1*0301-DQB1*0302 and DRB1*0404-DQA1*0301-DQB1*0302 were considered high-risk. DRB1*0701-DQA1*0201-DQB1*0303, DRB1*1401-DQA1*0101-DQB1*0503, DRB1*1501-DQA1*0102-DQB1*0602, DRB1*1101-DQA1*0501-DQB1*0301, DRB1*1104-DQA1*0501-DQB1*0301, DRB1*1303-DQA1*0501-DQB1*0301, DRB1*1301-DQA1*0103-DQB1*0603 and DRB1*0403-DQA1*0301-DQB1*0302 were considered protective. The distribution of protective, high-risk, and other haplotypes in the (first two) affected siblings and unaffected parents from Canarian and non-Canarian Spanish families was compared (Chi-square test). RESULTS: No significant differences were found between the regions in distribution of the HLA haplotypes in the affected siblings or in the non-affected parents. CONCLUSIONS: The high incidence of childhood-onset type 1 diabetes in the Canarian population does not appear to be explained by a greater prevalence of high-risk class II HLA haplotypes in families with the disease. However, sample size limits the differences that can be detected in this study.

Polymorphisms of the Dopamine beta-hidroxylase gene and its association with bovine temperament / Polimorfismos del gen Dopamina beta hidroxilasa y su asociación con temperamento bovino / Polimorfismos no gene dopamina beta hidroxilase e sua associação com temperamento bovino

Temperament in bovines is defined as behavior in response to human handling and is influenced by the sympatheticadrenal system. The bovine Dopamine beta-hidroxylase (DBH) gene is located on chromosome 11 and codes for the Dopamine beta hidroxylase enzyme, essential por the synthesis of this neurotransmitter. Simple nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) have been identified on exon 12, possibly associated with changes in bovine temperament. The aim of this study was to find polymorphisms in this region and associate them with temperament traits in BON (Blanco Orejinegro - Bos taurus taurus), fighting bulls (Bos taurus taurus) and Brahman (Bos taurus indicus) cattle breeds. A total of 80 individuals were used to evaluate chute behavior (CB) and flight speed (VS), and in 52 of them a 702bp fragment in exon 12 of the gene was sequenced, identifying 22 haplotypes. The mínimum number of haplotypes (4), the lowest nucleotide diversity (0,0012±0,0011) and the highest fixed loci number were found on fighting bulls. Moderate differentiation between the populations was observed with the lowest genetic distance (FST=0.03309) between Bos taurus taurus breeds. Differences in VS were observed (p<0.05) being lower in BON males than in Brahman (1.45±0.61 and 2.02±0.74 respectively) and in Brahman females than in Fighting bull females (1.05±0.58 y 2.23±0.80 respectively). Even though no association with the genetic plymorphisms was found, a posible influence of selection in exon 12 is suggested which may influence in other behavioral characteristics.

El temperamento en bovinos se define como el comportamiento en respuesta a la manipulación humana y está influenciado por el sistema simpático adrenal. El gen DBH (Dopamina beta hidroxilasa) bovino está ubicado en el cromosoma 11 y codifica para la Dopamina beta hidroxilasa (DBH), enzima indispensable para la síntesis de este neurotransmisor. Se han identificado polimorfismos de nucleótido simple en el exón 12, posiblemente asociados a cambios en el temperamento en bovinos. El objetivo de este estudio fue encontrar polimorfismos en dicha región y asociarlos con rasgos de temperamento en las razas Blanco orejinegro (BON - Bos taurus taurus), de lidia (Bos taurus taurus) y brahman (Bos taurus indicus). Se utilizaron 80 individuos para evaluar comportamiento en brete (CB) y velocidad de salida (VS), y en 52 de ellos se secuenció un fragmento de 702 pb en el exón 12 del gen identificando 22 haplotipos. El menor número de haplotipos (4), la menor diversidad nucleotídica (0,0012±0,0011) y el mayor número de loci fijos se presentaron en bovinos de Lidia. Hubo moderada diferenciación entre las poblaciones con la menor distancia genética (FST=0,03309) presente entre las razas Bos taurus. Se presentaron diferencias (p <0,05) en VS, siendo ésta menor en machos BON que en Brahman (1,45±0,61 y 2,02±0,74 respectivamente) y en hembras Brahman que en hembras de Lidia (1,05±0,58 y 2,23±0,80 respectivamente). Aunque no se presentó asociación con los polimorfismos genéticos encontrados, se sugiere una posible influencia de fuerzas de selección en el exón 12 que podría influir en otras características comportamentales.

O temperamento em bovinos se define como o comportamento em resposta a manipulação humana e está influenciado pelo sistema simpático adrenal. O gene DBH bovino está localizado no cromossomo 11 e codifica para a dopamina beta hidroxilase (DBH), enzima indispensável para a síntese de este neurotransmissor. Tem se identificado polimorfismos de nucleotídeo simples no éxon 12, possivelmente associados a mudanças no temperamento em bovinos. O objetivo de este estudo foi buscar possíveis polimorfismos no éxon 12 do gene DBH e avaliar sua associação com características de temperamento nas raças Blanco Orejinegro (BON - Bos taurus taurus), de Lídia (Bos taurus taurus e zebu Brahman (Bos taurus indicus). Se utilizaram 80 indivíduos para avaliar o comportamento no curral (CB) e velocidade de saída (VS). Em 52 deles sequenciou-se um fragmento de 702 pb no éxon 12 do gene DBH identificando 22 haplotipos. O menor número de haplótipo (4), a menor diversidade nucleotídica (0,0012±0,0011) e o maior número de loci fixos apresentaram-se em bovinos de Lídia. Houve moderada diferenciação entre as populações com a menor distancia genética (FST=0,03309) presente entre as raças Bos Taurus. Apresentaram-se diferenças (p <0,05) em VS, sendo esta menor em machos BON que em Brahman (1,45±0,61 e 2,02±0,74 respectivamente) e em fêmeas Brahman que de Lídia (1,05±0,58 y 2,23±0,80 respectivamente). Ainda que não se apresentou associação com os polimorfismos genéticos encontrados, sugere-se uma possível influência de forças de seleção no éxon 12 que poderia influenciar em outras características comportamentais..

3'UTR SNPs and Haplotypes in the GATA4 Gene Contribute to the Genetic Risk of Congenital Heart Disease.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: Single-nucleotide polymorphisms within a microRNA binding site can have different effects on gene expression, influencing the risk of disease. This study aimed to evaluate the association between single-nucleotide polymorphisms and haplotypes in the 3'UTR of the GATA4 gene and congenital heart disease risk. METHODS: Bioinformatics algorithms were used to analyze single-nucleotide polymorphisms in putative microRNA-binding sites of GATA4 3'UTR and to calculate the difference in free energy of hybridization (ΔFE, kcal/mol) for each wild-type vs the variant allele. RESULTS: The study population comprised 146 Caucasian patients (73 males; 6.68 ± 7.79 years) and a 265 healthy newborn participants (147 males). The sum of all |ΔFE| was considered to predict the biological importance of single-nucleotide polymorphisms binding more microRNAs. Next, the 4 polymorphisms (+1158C > T, +1256 A > T, +1355 G > A, +1521C > G) with the highest predicted |ΔFEtot| (9.91, 14.85, 11.03, 21.66kcal/mol, respectively) were genotyped in a case-control study (146 patients and 250 controls). Applying a correction for multiple testing only the +1158 T allele was found to be associated with a reduced risk showing significant difference between patients and controls. Haplotype analysis showed that the T-T-G-C haplotype (more uncommon in congenital heart diseases than in controls) was associated with a significantly decreased risk (P = .03), while the rare C-A-A-C haplotype, which was very uncommon in controls (0.3%) compared with the disease (2.4%), was associated with a 4-fold increased risk of disease (P = .04). CONCLUSIONS: Common variants in 3'UTR of the GATA4 gene jointly interact, affecting the congenital heart disease susceptibility, probably by altering microRNA posttranscriptional regulation.

Frecuencia de genes HLA en pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica procedentes del occidente y centro de Cuba / Frequency of HLA genes in patients with chronic kidney insufficiency, from western and central Cuba

Introducción: el trasplante es la terapia que permite la mayor sobrevida a los pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica. Para prevenir el rechazo del órgano, en primer lugar es necesario un estudio de la compatibilidad de los antígenos leucocitarios humanos (HLA) del paciente y de los posibles donantes. En Cuba solo se había realizado la tipificación HLA por métodos serológicos, pero en la actualidad se emplean técnicas moleculares. Objetivo: caracterizar el polimorfismo de los alelos HLA A, B, DR y DQ por métodos moleculares en pacientes cubanos en espera de trasplante renal. Métodos: se estudiaron 410 pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica de las regiones occidental y central del país a los que se les realizó tipificación molecular de los loci mencionados. Los resultados se expresaron según la nueva nomenclatura y fueron registrados en una base de datos confeccionada al efecto. Se compararon las frecuencias alélicas de la población blanca y no blanca y se determinó el porcentaje de frecuencia de los haplotipos para los alelos clase I y II. Resultados: los alelos A*11, A*30, A*74, B*42, B*51 y B*53 fueron más frecuentes en la población blanca mientras que los alelos B*58 y DRB1* 15 predominaron en los no blancos. Las frecuencias haplotípicas más encontradas en la clase I en la población blanca fueron A*02 B*51, A*02 B*44, A*02 B*35; y en la no blanca, A*01B*08, A*02B*51, A*02B*44. Para los alelos de la clase II, en la población blanca fueron DQB1*03, DRB1*04, DQB1*06, DRB1*13, DRB1*05, DRB1*01; y en los no blancos, DQB1*03, DRB1*04, DQB1*06, DRB1*13, DQB1*05, DRB1*01. Conclusiones: la caracterización de los pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica con respecto a su tipificación HLA permitirá trazar estrategias futuras relacionadas con la donación y el trasplante en todo el país(AU)

Introduction: transplantation is the therapy allowing the highest possible survival in patients with chronic kidney insufficiency. To prevent rejection of the organ, first of all it is necessary to make a compatibility test of human leukocyte antigens (HLA) from the patient and the possible donors. In Cuba, only serological HLA typing had been made but at present, molecular techniques are being applied. Aim: characterization of polimorfirsm of alleles HLA A, B, DR y DQ by molecular techniques in Cuban patients awaiting renal transplantation. Methods: four hundred and ten patients with chronic kidney insufficiency from Western and Central Cuba were studied by molecular typing of the above mentioned loci. Results were expressed by the new nomenclature and were registered In a data base prepared for that purpose. Allele frequencies of white and no white population were compared and percentage of haplotype frequencies for alleles class I and II were determined. Results: alleles A*11, A*30, A*74, B*42, B*51and B*53 were more frequent in white population while B*58 y DRB1*, 15 were mostly found in no whites. Haplotypic frequencies most found in class I in white population were A*02 B*51, A*02 B*44, A*02 B*35; and in no whites, A*01B*08, A*02B*51, A*02B*44. For class II alleles, DQB1*03, DRB1*04, DQB1*06, DRB1*13, DRB1*05, DRB1*01 were the most found in white population; and in no whites, DQB1*03, DRB1*04, DQB1*06, DRB1*13, DQB1*05, DRB1*01. Conclusions: characterization of patients with chronic kidney insufficiency in respect to HLA typing will allow future strategies related to kidney donation and transplantation in the whole country(AU)

Frecuencia de genes HLA en pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica procedentes del occidente y centro de Cuba / Frequency of HLA genes in patients with chronic kidney insufficiency, from western and central Cuba

Introducción: el trasplante es la terapia que permite la mayor sobrevida a los pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica. Para prevenir el rechazo del órgano, en primer lugar es necesario un estudio de la compatibilidad de los antígenos leucocitarios humanos (HLA) del paciente y de los posibles donantes. En Cuba solo se había realizado la tipificación HLA por métodos serológicos, pero en la actualidad se emplean técnicas moleculares.Objetivo: caracterizar el polimorfismo de los alelos HLA A, B, DR y DQ por métodos moleculares en pacientes cubanos en espera de trasplante renal. Métodos: se estudiaron 410 pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica de las regiones occidental y central del país a los que se les realizó tipificación molecular de los loci mencionados. Los resultados se expresaron según la nueva nomenclatura y fueron registrados en una base de datos confeccionada al efecto. Se compararon las frecuencias alélicas de la población blanca y no blanca y se determinó el porcentaje de frecuencia de los haplotipos para los alelos clase I y II.Resultados: los alelos A*11, A*30, A*74, B*42, B*51 y B*53 fueron más frecuentes en la población blanca mientras que los alelos B*58 y DRB1* 15 predominaron en los no blancos. Las frecuencias haplotípicas más encontradas en la clase I en la población blanca fueron A*02 B*51, A*02 B*44, A*02 B*35; y en la no blanca, A*01B*08, A*02B*51, A*02B*44. Para los alelos de la clase II, en la población blanca fueron DQB1*03, DRB1*04, DQB1*06, DRB1*13, DRB1*05, DRB1*01; y en los no blancos, DQB1*03, DRB1*04, DQB1*06, DRB1*13, DQB1*05, DRB1*01.Conclusiones: la caracterización de los pacientes con insuficiencia renal crónica con respecto a su tipificación HLA permitirá trazar estrategias futuras relacionadas con la donación y el trasplante en todo el país(AU)

Introduction: transplantation is the therapy allowing the highest possible survival in patients with chronic kidney insufficiency. To prevent rejection of the organ, first of all it is necessary to make a compatibility test of human leukocyte antigens (HLA) from the patient and the possible donors. In Cuba, only serological HLA typing had been made but at present, molecular techniques are being applied. Aim: characterization of polimorfirsm of alleles HLA A, B, DR y DQ by molecular techniques in Cuban patients awaiting renal transplantation. Methods: four hundred and ten patients with chronic kidney insufficiency from Western and Central Cuba were studied by molecular typing of the above mentioned loci. Results were expressed by the new nomenclature and were registered In a data base prepared for that purpose. Allele frequencies of white and no white population were compared and percentage of haplotype frequencies for alleles class I and II were determined. Results: alleles A*11, A*30, A*74, B*42, B*51and B*53 were more frequent in white population while B*58 y DRB1*, 15 were mostly found in no whites. Haplotypic frequencies most found in class I in white population were A*02 B*51, A*02 B*44, A*02 B*35; and in no whites, A*01B*08, A*02B*51, A*02B*44. For class II alleles, DQB1*03, DRB1*04, DQB1*06, DRB1*13, DRB1*05, DRB1*01 were the most found in white population; and in no whites, DQB1*03, DRB1*04, DQB1*06, DRB1*13, DQB1*05, DRB1*01. Conclusions: characterization of patients with chronic kidney insufficiency in respect to HLA typing will allow future strategies related to kidney donation and transplantation in the whole country(AU)

Frecuencias alélicas, genotípicas y haplotípicas del sistema HLA clase I y II en donantes de una población del suroccidente colombiano / Allele, genotype and haplotype frequencies of HLA system class I and II in donors in a population in southwestern Colombia

Introducción: la determinación de los alelos que se expresan con mayor frecuencia en una población permite conocer la probabilidad que tiene una persona de encontrar un donante no relacionado compatible en esa población y sirve de referencia para estudios de asociación del HLA con diferentes enfermedades y aplicaciones en estudios antropogenéticos. Objetivo general: determinar las frecuencias alélicas HLA-A*, B* y DRB1* en una población del suroccidente colombiano. Diseño: estudio descriptivo retrospectivo. Material y métodos: estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo en el cual se incluyeron 1230 donantes (vivos y fallecidos) evaluados en el protocolo para trasplante renal y/o de médula ósea de la Fundación Valle del Lili. La tipificación se hizo por métodos moleculares y el análisis estadístico de las frecuencias alélicas, genotípicas y haplotípicas se realizó con los programa genéticos GENEPOP y Arlequín. Resultados: se identificaron 20, 29 y 13 alelos para los locus HLA-A*, HLA-B* y HLA-DRB1* respectivamente y los alelos más frecuentes fueron A*02 (25%), B*35 (17,7%) y DRB1*04 (23%). Los haplotipos más frecuentes para dos loci fueron A*24B*35(8,9%), B*35DRB*04 (8,1%) y A*24DRB*04 (10,9%) y para tres loci A*24B*35DRB1*04 (5.4%) y A*24B*40DRB1*04 (3,2%). Conclusión: los alelos que se expresan con mayor frecuencia en la población del suroccidente colombiano están representados por los alelos más comunes en la población colombiana. (Acta Med Colomb 2013; 38: 16-21).

Introduction: the determination of the alleles expressed more often in a population allows to know the probability of a person to find a matched unrelated donor in that population and serves as reference for the HLA association studies with different diseases and applications in anthropogenetic studies. Objective: to determine the allelic frequencies HLA-A*, B* and DRB1* in the Colombia southwestern population. Design: retrospective descriptive study. Methods: in this study we included 1230 donors (living and deceased) evaluated witin our renal transplantation or bone marrow transplant protocol following at the Fundación Valle del Lili in Cali, Colombia. The typing was made by molecular methods and the statistical analysis of allele, genotype and haplotype frequencies was performed with the genetic programs GENEPOP and Arlequin. Results: we identified 20, 29 and 13 alleles for the HLA-A*, HLA-B* and HLA-DRB1* locus respectively and the most frequent alleles were A* 02 (25%), B* 35 (17.7% ) and DRB1* 04 (23%). The haplotypes for the two more frequent loci were A* 24B* 35 (8.9%), B* 35DRB* 04 (8.1%) and A* 24DRB* 04 (10.9%) and for three loci A* 24B * 35DRB1* 04 (5.4%) and A* 24B* 40DRB1* 04 (3.2%). Conclusion: the alleles expressed more frequently in the Colombia southwestern population are represented by the most common alleles in the colombian population. (Acta Med Colomb 2013; 38: 16-21).

Homozygous sickle cell disease in Uganda and Jamaica a comparison of Bantu and Benin haplotypes / La anemia de células falciformes homocigóticas en Uganda y Jamaica comparación de haplotipos Bantú y Benin

OBJECTIVE: To compare the haematological and clinical features of homozygous sickle cell (SS) disease in Bantu and Benin haplotypes in a cross-sectional study of 115 Ugandan patients attending the Sickle Cell Clinic at Mulago Hospital, Kampala, Uganda, with 311 patients in the Jamaican Cohort Study. METHODS: This involved comparison of clinical features and haematology with special reference to genetic determinants of severity including fetal haemoglobin levels, beta-globin haplotype and alpha thalassaemia status. RESULTS: The Bantu haplotype accounted for 94% of HbS chromosomes in Ugandan patients and the Benin haplotype for 76% of HbS chromosomes in Jamaica. Ugandan patients were marginally more likely to have alpha thalassaemia, had similar total haemoglobin and fetal haemoglobin levels but had higher reticulocyte counts and total bilirubin levels consistent with greater haemolysis. Ugandan patients had less leg ulceration and priapism, but the mode of clinical presentation, prevalence of dactylitis, features of bone pain and degree of delay in sexual development, assessed by menarche, were similar in the groups. In Ugandan patients, a history of anaemic episodes was common but these were poorly documented. CONCLUSION: The haematological and clinical features of the Bantu haplotype in Uganda were broadly similar to the Benin haplotype in Jamaica except for less leg ulceration and priapism and possibly greater haemolysis among Ugandan subjects. Anaemic episodes in Uganda were treated empirically by transfusion often without a clear diagnosis; better documentation including reticulocyte counts and observations on spleen size is necessary to evolve appropriate models of care.

OBJETIVO: Comparar los rasgos clínicos de la anemia de células falciformes homocigóticas (SS) en los haplotipos Bantú y Benin en un estudio transversal de 115 pacientes ugandeses que asisten a la Clínica de la anemia de células falciformes en el Hospital de Mulago, Kampala, Uganda, con 311 pacientes en un estudio de cohorte jamaicano. MÉTODOS: El estudio conllevó la comparación de los rasgos clínicos y hematológicos con referencia especial a los determinantes genéticos de la severidad, incluyendo los niveles de la hemoglobina fetal, haplotipos del gen de la globina beta, y el estado de la alfa talasemia. RESULTADOS: El haplotipo Bantú dio cuenta del 94% de los cromosomas HbS en los pacientes ugandeses, en tanto que los haplotipos Benin dieron cuenta del 76% de los cromosomas de HbS en Jamaica. Los pacientes de Uganda presentaron una probabilidad marginalmente mayor de alfa talasemia, tenían niveles similares de hemoglobina total y hemoglobina fetal, pero en cambio presentaban conteos más altos de reticulocitos así como niveles mayores de bilirrubina total, en correspondencia con una mayor hemólisis. Los pacientes ugandeses presentaban menor ulceración de las piernas y priapismo, pero el modo de presentación clínica, la prevalencia de dactilitis, los rasgos de dolor óseo, y el grado de retraso en el desarrollo sexual, evaluado por la menarquia, fueron similares en todos los grupos. Los pacientes de Uganda se caracterizaron comúnmente por una historia de episodios de anemia, pobremente documentados. CONCLUSIÓN: Los rasgos clínicos y hematológicos del haplotipo Bantú en Uganda fueron considerablemente similares al haplotipo Benin en Jamaica, salvo por una menor presencia de ulceración de las piernas y priapismo, así como posiblemente mayor hemólisis entre los sujetos de Uganda. Los episodios de anemia en Uganda fueron tratados empíricamente mediante transfusión, a menudo sin un diagnóstico claro. Se necesita una mejor documentación - incluyendo conteos de reticulocitos - así como observaciones del tamaño del bazo, a fin de desarrollar modelos de cuidado apropiados.

Distribution of QPY and RAH haplotypes of granzyme B gene in distinct Brazilian populations / Distribuição dos haplótipos QPY e RAH do gene da granzima B em grupos populacionais brasileiros

INTRODUCTION: The cytolysis mediated by granules is one of the most important effector functions of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and natural killer cells. Recently, three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified at exons 2, 3, and 5 of the granzyme B gene, resulting in a haplotype in which three amino acids of mature protein Q48P88Y245 are changed to R48A88H245, which leads to loss of cytotoxic activity of the protein. In this study, we evaluated the frequency of these polymorphisms in Brazilian populations. METHODS: We evaluated the frequency of these polymorphisms in Brazilian ethnic groups (white, Afro-Brazilian, and Asian) by sequencing these regions. RESULTS: The allelic and genotypic frequencies of SNP 2364A/G at exon 2 in Afro-Brazilian individuals (42.3% and 17.3%) were significantly higher when compared with those in whites and Asians (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0007, respectively). The polymorphisms 2933C/G and 4243C/T also were more frequent in Afro-Brazilians but without any significant difference regarding the other groups. The Afro-Brazilian group presented greater diversity of haplotypes, and the RAH haplotype seemed to be more frequent in this group (25%), followed by the whites (20.7%) and by the Asians (11.9%), similar to the frequency presented in the literature. CONCLUSIONS: There is a higher frequency of polymorphisms in Afro-Brazilians, and the RAH haplotype was more frequent in these individuals. We believe that further studies should aim to investigate the correlation of this haplotype with diseases related to immunity mediated by cytotoxic lymphocytes, and if this correlation is confirmed, novel treatment strategies might be elaborated.

INTRODUÇÃO: A citólise mediada por grânulos é uma das mais importantes funções efetoras de linfócitos T citotóxicos e células natural killer. Recentemente, três polimorfismos de nucleotídeo único foram identificados nos éxons 2, 3 e 5 do gene da granzima B, resultando em um haplótipo em que três aminoácidos da proteína madura Q48P88Y245 são alterados para R48A88H245, o que leva à perda da atividade citotóxica da proteína. No presente estudo, avaliamos a frequência desses polimorfismos em populações brasileiras. MÉTODOS:Avaliamos a frequência desses polimorfismos em grupos étnicos brasileiros (brancos, afro-brasileiros e asiáticos) por sequenciamento. RESULTADOS: As frequências alélica e genotípica do polimorfismo 2364A/G no éxon 2 em indivíduos afro-brasileiros (42,3% e 17,3%) foram significativamente maiores (p < 0,0001 e p = 0,0007) quando comparadas a brancos e asiáticos. Os polimorfismos 2933C/G e 4243C/T também foram mais frequentes em afro-brasileiros, mas sem diferença significativa. O grupo afro-brasileiro apresentou maior diversidade de haplótipos e o haplótipo RAH foi mais frequente nesse grupo (25%), seguidos pelos brancos (20,7%) e asiáticos (11,9%), semelhante à frequência apresentada na literatura. CONCLUSÕES: Há uma maior frequência de polimorfismos em afro-brasileiros e o haplótipo RAH foi mais frequente nesses indivíduos. Acreditamos que novos estudos devem ter como objetivo a investigação da correlação deste haplótipo com doenças relacionadas com a imunidade mediada por linfócitos citotóxicos, e se essa correlação for confirmada, novas estratégias de tratamento poderão ser elaboradas.

The role of uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) on the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus and its chronic complications / Papel da proteína desacopladora 2 (UCP2) no desenvolvimento do diabetes melito tipo 2 e de suas complicações crônicas

It is well established that genetic factors play an important role in the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) and its chronic complications, and that genetically susceptible subjects can develop the disease after being exposed to environmental risk factors. Therefore, great efforts have been made to identify genes associated with DM2. Uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2) is expressed in several tissues, and acts in the protection against oxidative stress; in the negative regulation of insulin secretion by beta cells, and in fatty acid metabolism. All these mechanisms are associated with DM2 pathogenesis and its chronic complications. Therefore, UCP2 is a candidate gene for the development of these disorders. Indeed, several studies have reported that three common polymorphisms in UCP2 gene are possibly associated with DM2 and/or obesity. Only a few studies investigated these polymorphisms in relation to chronic complications of diabetes, with inconclusive results.

Está bem estabelecido que fatores genéticos têm papel importante no desenvolvimento do diabetes melito tipo 2 (DM2) bem como de suas complicações crônicas e que indivíduos geneticamente suscetíveis podem desenvolver essa doença após exposição a fatores de risco ambientais. Assim, grandes esforços têm sido feitos para a identificação de genes associados ao DM2. A proteína desacopladora 2 (UCP2) é expressa em diversos tecidos e atua na proteção contra o estresse oxidativo, na regulação negativa da secreção de insulina pelas células-beta e no metabolismo dos ácidos graxos, mecanismos associados tanto à patogênese do DM2 como a suas complicações crônicas. Portanto, o gene UCP2 é um gene candidato para o desenvolvimento dessas doenças. De fato, diversos estudos têm relatado que três polimorfismos comuns no gene UCP2 estão possivelmente associados ao DM2 e/ou à obesidade. Apenas poucos estudos investigaram esses polimorfismos em relação às complicações crônicas do diabetes, obtendo resultados pouco conclusivos.

Polimorfismos de 17 marcadores STR del cromosoma-Y en una muestra poblacional del altiplano cundiboyacense / Polymorphism of 17 Y-chromosome STR markers in a sample from the cundiboyacense plateau

Introducción: La tipificación molecular de ADN de cromosoma-Y es una herramienta de reconocida importancia en el proceso de identificación de individuos de género masculino en diversos casos forenses. Actualmente es una herramienta de apoyo para los laboratorios de genética estatales en la identificación de víctimas del conflicto armado en Colombia, dentro de los procesos enmarcados en la Ley de Justicia y Paz. En este estudiose determina el haplotipo del cromosoma-Y que será comparado con parientes por línea paaterna de género masculino, con el fin de realizar el análisis estadístico de estos marcadores, aportar a una base de datos colombiana y comparar con parientes de la línea masculina. Objetivo: Realizar una caracterización de haplotipos mediante análisis de marcadores moleculares, STR del cromosoma-Y en una muestra de población del altiplano cundiboyacense colombiano. Discusión: Los valores de diversidad haplotípica, poder de discriminación y probabilidad de coincidencia al azar corroboran la utilidad del análisis de STR-Y en casos de filiación por línea paterna y son coherentes con los valores observados en el inicio del desarrollo de bases de datos de haplotipos.Conclusión: Los datos del análisis de los 17 marcadores STR-Y, recogidos en el presente estudio, aportan haplotipos de población del altiplano cundiboyacense, la cual es una de las concentraciones de población más significativas en Colombia. Estos resultados corresponden a una recopilación de datos informativos que permiten mejorar una base de datos en la que se genere la estimación real de frecuencias haplotípicas de STR-Y para su aplicación en la práctica forense y estudios de poblaciones humanas.

Introduction: The application of Y-Chromosome molecular DNA typing is a tool of recognized importance in the process of identification of male individuals in various forensic cases, and currently it is now a support tool for genetic laboratories seeking to identify victims of the armed conflict in Colombia within the legal process of ®Justice and Peace¼. In this report, the Y-chromosome haplotype is determined and statistical analyses are performed to improve databases of Colombian Y-chromosome for comparison with relatives of the male line. Objective: Characterization of haplotypes through analysis of Y-chromosome STR molecular markers in a sample of Colombian Cundiboyacense highland population. Discussion: The values of haplotype diversity, discrimination power, and probability of random coincidence showed the usefulness of Y-STR analysis in cases of patrilineal descent and are consistent with values observed in the early development of haplotype databases. Conclusion: The data analysis of the 17-Y STR markers obtained in this study provide haplotypes for the Cundiboyacense highlands, one of the most significant concentrations of population in Colombia, and serves as an informative database for forensic practice and genetic studies for human populations.

Mitochondrial DNA polymorphism among populations of Meliponaquadrifasciata quadrifasciata Lepeletier (Apidae: Meliponini) from southern Brazil / Polimorfismo do DNA mitocondrial entre populações de Melipona quadrifasciata quadrifasciata Lepeletier (Apidae: Meliponini) do sul do Brasil

The geographical distribution of the Brazilian endemic stingless bee Melipona quadrifasciata quadrifasciata Lepeletier ranges from Rio Grande do Sul to Minas Gerais states. The objective of the present study was to verify mtDNA polymorphisms among samples of M. q. quadrifasciata collected in southern Brazil. Twenty nine colonies from three localities (Blumenau and Mafra/SC and Prudentópolis/ PR) were sampled. Seven mtDNA regions were amplified and further digested with 15 restriction enzymes (PCR-RFLP). Five composite haplotypes were identified, with two unique to samples from Prudentópolis and the remaining three to samples from Mafra and/or Blumenau.

A distribuição geográfica da abelha sem ferrão Melipona quadrifasciata quadrifasciata Lepeletier compreende desde o Rio Grande do Sul até Minas Gerais. O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a variabilidade genética em amostras de M. q. quadrifasciata coletadas na Região Sul do Brasil. Para tanto, 29 colônias de três localidades (Blumenau e Mafra/SC e Prudentópolis/PR) foram amostradas e a técnica de PCR-RFLP para o DNA mitocondrial foi utilizada. Sete regiões do genoma mitocondrial foram amplificadas e digeridas com 15 enzimas de restrição. Cinco haplótipos foram identificados: dois exclusivos das amostras de Prudentópolis e os outros três registrados nas amostras de Mafra e/ou de Blumenau.

Factores genéticos involucrados en la susceptibilidad para desarrollar enfermedad de Parkinson

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SUMMARY: Parkinson's disease (PD) is the main cause of parkinsonism (rigidity, resting tremor, bradykinesia and loss of postural reflexes). There is evidence highlighting the importance of the interaction between environmental factors and genetics on the pathogenesis of PD. The research about the role of genetics in Parkinson's disease began with familial aggregation studies, which have shown that approximately 10-15% of patients with PD have a positive firstdegree family history of PD; this proportion is higher than a 1% found in controls. Twins studies have found a larger concordance rate in monozygotic twins with early-onset PD (symptoms onset before 40 years of age). Nevertheless, dopaminergic functional studies in twins using PET (Positron Emission Tomography) with [18F]dopa have also shown a substantial role for inheritance in late-onset, sporadic PD. In one of these studies with clinically discordant twins (monozygotic and dizygotic), the concordance rate at baseline for subclinical striatal dopaminergic dysfunction was higher in monozygotic than dizygotic twin pairs (55% vs 18%, respectively) using functional neuroimaging criteria. Nine loci have been so far identified and six genes inherited as a Mendelian fashion have been cloned. Also, α-synuclein (PARK1) gene mutations were found to be pathogenic and responsible for a rare PD with an autosomal dominant inheritance in a large Greek-Italian family (the Contursi kindred). These findings have not been reproduced in patients with late-onset, sporadic PD. Mutations in the gene encoding for parkin (PARK2) are responsible for PD with an autosomal recessive trait and are relatively common in patients with early-onset PD. Mutations in α-synuclein and parkin genes suggest that the dysfunction of the ubiquitine-proteasome system, that mediates degradation of proteins, plays an important role in the pathogenesis of PD. Ubiquitine is a key component of this system and is attached to the proteins by ubiquitine-ligases in order to mark them to be cleaved by the proteasome. The production of freeubiquitine involves a type of proteins called ubiquitine-hydrolases. Mutations in a gene that encodes for one of these proteins, UCHL1, have been also involved in familial PD. Cellular death models in PD have been centered in oxidative stress and excitoxicity mechanisms. Even though these mechanisms are still considered important, the models that highlight the abnormal aggregation of proteins and the failure of the ubiquitine proteolytic system are more consistent with available experimental data. The product of DJ-1 (PARK7) was recently involved in familial PD. This could protect dopaminergic neurons from damage due to oxidative stress as suggested by its structure similarity with the stress-induced bacterial chaperone (Hsp-31); it also could help in the appropriate folding of proteins. Other studies suggest DJ-1 mutations could contribute to the elevated levels of oxidative stress seen in PD. Theories about the pathogenesis of PD have been developed independently of the findings in the genetics field. One particularly prominent model suggests that various mitochondrial alterations that produce failure in the production of cellular energy or elevated free radicals levels or both have an important role in PD pathogenesis, and some recent genetic findings support this theory. Mutations in the gene encoding for PINK1 (PARK6), a mitochondrial protein-kinase, have been found in some patients with familial PD. Recently, a gene localized in PARK8 (LRRK2/dardarine) has been cloned. It is responsible for familial PD with autosomal dominant inheritance, typical age of onset and clinical findings similar to the ones found in idiopathic PD. Association studies with candidate genes have discovered the influence of some polymorphisms on certain PD clinical features, at least in the populations studied. The relative risk and age of onset of PD, as well as the levodopa induced dyskinesia, are among these characteristics. Candidate genes were chosen because of their alleged role on the pathogenesis of PD. The major candidate genes studied so far are related to dopamine synthesis, transport and metabolism, xenobiotics and other neuronal toxins detoxification, mitochondrial metabolism, and also transcription factors and neurotrophic genes involved in the mesencephalic dopaminergic system development. Of the susceptibility genes so far studied, only the MAO-B >188 bp allele has shown a significant association in a meta-analysis. Additionally, only six genes (DRD2, ND3, BNDF, α-synuclein, UCHL1 and Nurr-1) have shown important associations with PD in several studies and have fulfilled the criteria for their replication and meta-analysis. These mixed results could be related to differences in sample size, ethnical background and methodology as to make it almost impossible to summarize independent studies. Other possible contributions are populations stratification, biologic credibility of the association between the gene and the phenotype and gene to gene interactions. However, these mutations are not found in the great majority of patients with sporadic PD. In these patients, normal gene polymorphisms must confer susceptibility to PD, and certain, not-yetidentified, environmental factors must interact with them in order to produce clinically PD. Normally, each subject receives one maternal and one paternal allele for each gene. During meiosis, the chromosomal recombination is undertaken in such a way the probability of two loci being transmitted together to the next generation is indirectly proportional to the distance in the chromosome between them. The group of alleles inherited as a cluster are known as haplotype and the study and knowledge of haplotypes present in the populations could be associated with clinical phenotypes. If loci are inherited as stable fragments, association studies can be developed for each haplotype and not for each locus, which saves time, money, human and material resources. The HapMap will contribute to a better design of genetic association studies with clinical phenotypes. A better understanding of the genetics involved in the relative risk of PD will be an important step to improve its prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Genetic testing for PD may be premature and is not currently recommended unless the patient has a strong family history, a family member is known to be carrier of a causal mutation, there is parental consanguinity, or the patient exhibits symptoms at an unusually early age (before 40 years of age). Presymptomatic testing for such an incurable neurodegenerative disease must always be accompanied by proper education and counseling and must be carried out at a center with expertise in this area. Currently there are no well-standardized presymptomatic protocols for PD genetic testing; therefore, it is recommended to follow the Huntington's disease protocol. This review summarizes relative risk of genetics in PD.