Pilot Nanostring PanCancer pathway analysis of colon adenocarcinoma in a tertiary healthcare centre in Kerala, India.

The prevalence of microsatellite instability and deoxyribonucleic acid mismatch repair deficiency in colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRC) cases is higher in India compared to western populations. No major study on the molecular pathogenesis is currently available in the Indian population. We conducted a pilot study to explore the differences in molecular pathogenesis of microsatellite stable (MSS) and microsatellite unstable CRC from a tertiary care centre in Kerala, South India.

Diagnostic accuracy of MicroRNA 208b level with respect to different types of atrial fibrillation.

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are prerequisite for cardiovascular functions. miRNA miR-208 b is a cardio-specific miRNA with tissue (atrial) levels elevated in atrial fibrillation (AFib) and blood levels significantly elevated in myocardial infarction. We calculated serum levels of miR-208 b in paroxysmal and persistent AFib, embolic cerebrovascular accident patients with AFib as possible etiology and controls.

EGFR analysis on scrapings from cytology smears in lung carcinoma, an effective alternative to testing on trucut biopsies.

Background: Lung carcinomas are a leading cause of cancer morbidity and mortality. Many cases present at an advanced stage of disease where definitive treatment by surgical resection is not feasible. Molecular testing using materials derived from minimally invasive procedures aid in targeted therapy with least iatrogenic burden to the patient.

Somatic mutation detection efficiency in EGFR: a comparison between high resolution melting analysis and Sanger sequencing.

Background: High resolution melting curve analysis is a cost-effective rapid screening method for detection of somatic gene mutation. The performance characteristics of this technique has been explored previously, however, analytical parameters such as limit of detection of mutant allele fraction and total concentration of DNA, have not been addressed. The current study focuses on comparing the mutation detection efficiency of High-Resolution Melt Analysis (HRM) with Sanger Sequencing in somatic mutations of the EGFR gene in non-small cell lung cancer.

Metabolism and mechanisms of action of hyaluronan in human biology.

Hyaluronan is a ubiquitous high-molecular weight polymer of repeated disaccharides of glucuronic acid and N-acetylglucosamine. It is a membrane-bound, viscous material extruded into the extracellular matrix after being synthesized in the cytoplasm by hyaluronan synthases complex and a regulated degradation by a group of enzymes called hyaluronidases. Hyaluronan has varied biological roles on many vital organismal functions, such as cellular and tissue development, migration and repair after injury or inflammation and cancer genesis.