Saliva direct PCR protocol for HLA-DQB1*02 genotyping.

Celiac disease (CD) is an immune disorder, that is triggered by gluten ingestion in genetically predisposed individuals. The HLA-DQB1*02 allele is the main predisposing genetic factor and a candidate for first-line genotyping screening. We designed and validated a simple, DNA purification-free PCR protocol directly from crude saliva, enabling the detection of the DQB1*02 allele.

Focal adhesion kinase, RhoA, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase modulates apoptosis mediated by angiotensin II AT receptors.

Apoptosis plays an important role in cellular processes such as development, differentiation, and homeostasis. Although the participation of angiotensin II (Ang II) AT receptors (AT R) in cellular apoptosis is well accepted, the signaling pathway involved in this process is not well established. We evaluated the participation of signaling proteins focal adhesion kinase (FAK), RhoA, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38MAPK) in apoptosis induced by Ang II via AT R overexpressed in HeLa cells.