Analysis of CRABP2 and FABP5 genes in primary and recurrent pterygium tissues.

The etiology of pterygium remains unclear, but ultraviolet (UV) radiation is generally considered to be major risk factor. Pterygium has similarity features with many cancers, including inflammation, invasion, cell proliferation, anti-apoptosis, angiogenesis and recurrence after resection. Retinoic acid via cellular retinoic acid binding protein 2 (CRABP2) is involved in cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and differentiation, while it via fatty acid binding protein 5 (FABP5) is involved in survival, cell proliferation and angiogenesis, which pathway gets activated depends on the CRABP2/FABP5 ratio.

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Gene Insertion/Deletion Variant and Familial Mediterranean Fever-related Amyloidosis.

Introduction: The most important complication of familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is secondary amyloidosis, which can lead to kidney failure. Genetic variability in the genes of various components of the renin-angiotensin system may play a role in the pathogenesis of the kidney disorders.  The aim of the present study was to investigate the association between angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) gene I/D variant and risk of developing FMF-related amyloidosis in Turkish patients.

Genetic analysis of interleukin 18 gene polymorphisms in alopecia areata.

Background: Alopecia areata (AA), which appears as nonscarring hair shedding on any hair-bearing area, is a common organ-specific autoimmune condition. Cytokines have important roles in the development of AA. Interleukin (IL) 18 is a significant proinflammatory cytokine that was found higher in the patients with AA.