The low levels of circulating hepatocyte growth factor in nephrolithiasis cases: independent from gene polymorphism.

Environmental and genetic factors are important in development of nephrolithiasis. In a recent study, it has been demonstrated that hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) has an anti-apoptotic effect and thus can reduce the adhesion of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals to renal epithelial cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the HGF serum levels and its two gene polymorphisms and possible association of the two in patients with nephrolithiasis.

Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies are not associated with familial Mediterranean fever.

Objective: This study investigated the presence of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies in familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) patients and controls.

Material And Methods: Forty-nine patients with FMF were enrolled (23 had a history of arthritis during attacks and 26 had no such history). Two control groups were enrolled: 20 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and 30 healthy individuals.

Serum adiponectin levels in patients with esophageal cancer.

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate a possible relationship between serum levels of adiponectin and clinicopathological characteristics in esophageal cancer. This is the first report evaluating serum adiponectin levels in patients with esophageal cancer.

Methods: Sixty-two patients with esophageal cancer and thirty healthy subjects were included in the study.